bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Constrained-Total-Least-Squares Method for Joint Estimation of Source and Sensor Locations: A General Framework
Authors: Wang Ding , Liu Ruirui , Yin Jiexin , Wu Zhidong , Wang Yunlong , Wang Cheng
Published: April 2018

It is well known that sensor location uncertainties can significantly deteriorate the source positioning accuracy. Therefore, improving the sensor locations is necessary in order to achieve better localization performance. In this paper, a constrained-total-least-squares (CTLS) method for simultaneously locating multiple disjoint sources and refining the erroneous sensor positions is presented. Unlike conventional localization techniques, an important feature of the proposed method is that it establishes a general framework that is suitable for many different location measurements. First, a modified CTLS optimization problem is formulated after some algebraic manipulations and then the corresponding Newton iterative algorithm is derived to give the numerical solution. Subsequently, by using the first-order perturbation analysis, the explicit expression for the covariance matrix of the proposed CTLS estimator is deduced under the Gaussian assumption. Moreover, the estimation accuracy of the CTLS method is shown to achieve the Cramér-Rao bound (CRB) before the thresholding effect occurs by a rigorous proof. Finally, two kinds of numerical examples are given to corroborate the theoretical development in this paper. One uses the TDOAs/GROAs measurements and the other is based on the TOAs/FOAs parameters.
An Efficient SDN Multicast Architecture for Dynamic Industrial IoT Environments
Authors: Kim Hyeong-Su , Yun Seongjin , Kim Hanjin , Shin Heonyeop , Kim Won-Tae
Published: April 2018

Large-scale industrial IoT services appear in smart factory domains such as factory clouds which integrate distributed small factories into a large virtual factory with dynamic combination based on orders of consumers. A smart factory has so many industrial elements including various sensors/actuators, gateways, controllers, application servers, and IoT clouds. Since there are complex connections and relations, it is hard to handle them in point-to-point manner. In addition, many duplicated traffics are exchanged between them through the Internet. Multicast is believed as an effective many-to-many communication mechanism by establishing multicast trees between sources and receivers. There are, however, some issues for adopting multicast to large-scale industrial IoT services in terms of QoS. In this paper, we propose a novel software-defined network multicast based on group shared tree which includes near-receiver rendezvous point selection algorithm and group shared tree switching mechanism. As a result, the proposed multicast mechanism can reduce the packet loss by 90% compared to the legacy methods under severe congestion condition. GST switching method obtains to decreased packet delay effect, respectively, 2%, 20% better than the previously studied multicast and the legacy SDN multicast.
Cognitive Strategies and Physical Activity in Older Adults: A Discriminant Analysis
Authors: André Nathalie , Ferrand Claude , Albinet Cédric , Audiffren Michel
Published: April 2018

Background. Although a number of studies have examined sociodemographic, psychosocial, and environmental determinants of the level of physical activity (PA) for older people, little attention has been paid to the predictive power of cognitive strategies for independently living older adults. However, cognitive strategies have recently been considered to be critical in the management of day-to-day living. Methods. Data were collected from 243 men and women aged 55 years and older living in France using face-to-face interviews between 2011 and 2013. Results. A stepwise discriminant analysis selected five predictor variables (age, perceived health status, barriers’ self-efficacy, internal memory, and attentional control strategies) of the level of PA. The function showed that the rate of correct prediction was 73% for the level of PA. The calculated discriminant function based on the five predictor variables is useful for detecting individuals at high risk of lapses once engaged in regular PA. Conclusions. This study highlighted the need to consider cognitive functions as a determinant of the level of PA and, more specifically, those cognitive functions related to executive functions (internal memory and attentional control), to facilitate the maintenance of regular PA. These results are discussed in relation to successful aging.
PAM50 and Risk of Recurrence Scores for Interval Breast Cancers
Authors: Puvanesarajah Samantha , Nyante Sarah J. , Kuzmiak Cherie M. , Chen Mengjie , Tse Chiu-Kit , Sun Xuezheng , Allott Emma H. , Kirk Erin L. , Carey Lisa A. , Perou Charles M. , Olshan Andrew F. , Henderson Louise M. , Troester Melissa A.
Published: April 2018

Breast cancers detected after a negative breast screening examination and prior to the next screening are referred to as interval cancers. These cancers generally have poor clinical characteristics compared with screen-detected cancers, but associations between interval cancer and genomic cancer characteristics are not well understood. Mammographically screened women diagnosed with primary invasive breast cancer from 1993 to 2013 (n = 370) were identified by linking the Carolina Breast Cancer Study and the Carolina Mammography Registry. Among women with a registry-identified screening mammogram 0 to 24 months before diagnosis, cancers were classified as screen-detected (N = 165) or interval-detected (N = 205). Using logistic regression, we examined the association of mode of detection with cancer characteristics (clinical, IHC, and genomic), overall, and in analyses stratified on mammographic density and race. Interval cancer was associated with large tumors [>2 cm; OR, 2.3; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.5–3.7], positive nodal status (OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1–2.8), and triple-negative subtype (OR, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.1–5.5). Interval cancers were more likely to have non-Luminal A subtype (OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.5–5.7), whereas screen-detected cancers tended to be more indolent (96% had low risk of recurrence genomic scores; 71% were PAM50 Luminal A). When stratifying by mammographic density and race, associations between interval detection and poor prognostic features were similar by race and density status. Strong associations between interval cancers and poor-prognosis genomic features (non-Luminal A subtype and high risk of recurrence score) suggest that aggressive tumor biology is an important contributor to interval cancer rates. Cancer Prev Res; 11(6); 327–36. ©2018 AACR.
Male-Male Mounting Behaviour in Free-Ranging Golden Snub-Nosed Monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana)
Authors: Fang Gu , Dixson Alan F. , Qi Xiao-Guang , Li Bao-Guo
Published: April 2018

An all-male band of golden snub-nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana) was observed for 3 months in the Qinling Mountains of China, in order to collect data on the frequencies and contextual significance of male-male mounting behaviour. Mounts occurred in a variety of affiliative, dominance-related and sexual contexts, which differed depending upon the ages of the males involved. Mounting behaviour in this group was mainly initiated by adults. Juveniles mounted each other in affiliative contexts (during play and prior to grooming). Adult males mounted subadult and juvenile partners in a greater variety of sociosexual contexts (dominance/rank-related interactions; reconciliation following agonistic encounters, and sometimes as a prelude to receiving grooming). However, subadults and juveniles were never observed to mount adults. In one dyad, involving an adult male and a subadult partner, mounting was more frequent and prolonged, and included bouts of deep pelvic thrusting. Two mounts resulted in anal intromissions and, in 1 case, the subadult partner exhibited seminal emission. Given that the study took place during the annual mating peak period of R. roxellana, it is possible that this unusual male-male sexual activity was related to the absence of mating opportunities for those adults that were excluded from 1-male units.
Low Necroptosis Process Predicts Poor Treatment Outcome of Human Papillomavirus Positive Cervical Cancers by Decreasing Tumor-Associated Macrophages M1 Polarization
Authors: Li Lin , Yu Song , Zang Chunyi
Published: April 2018

Background/Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the functions of the necroptosis process on the prognosis of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV)-related cervical cancer. Methods: PCR and western blotting were used to demonstrate the expression of the necroptosis marker, mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), in whole blood and peripheral blood mononuclears (PBMCs) of 89 cervical cancer patients and 15 healthy volunteers. Necroptosis levels and M1 polarization were determined in tumor co-cultured macrophages. Results: We found that MLKL expressions were significantly increased in cervical cancer patients in both whole blood and PBMC samples compared to the expressions in the healthy controls. Low MLKL expression was significantly associated with decreased survival rate in overall survival and disease-free survival. Co-culture cervical cancer cells decrease the necroptosis process of macrophage, together with the proinflammatory factors (M1 markers) downregulation, and this negative regulation was exacerbated in HPV-positive cases. Necroptosis enhancer RIPK3 overexpression showed reversed regulation of these M1 markers, suggesting that co-culture cervical cancer cells decrease the macrophage M1 polarization partly through necroptosis downregulation. Conclusion: Our study revealed that necroptosis process could be a relevant marker for the determination of the prognosis in cervical cancer patients, which might be because of its role in regulating macrophage polarization.
Protective Role of the Hepatic Vagus Nerve against Liver Metastasis in Mice
Authors: Hiramoto Tetsuya , Yoshihara Kazufumi , Asano Yasunari , Sudo Nobuyuki
Published: April 2018

Objective(s): Although accumulating evidence has shown that the autonomic nervous system is involved in liver pathology, its role in regulating cancer development remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to elucidate its detailed mechanisms. Methods: A mouse model of liver metastasis of colorectal cancer was used. To elucidate the potential mechanisms involved, we examined the effect of selective hepatic vagotomy on the survival rate and liver-to-body weight. We further evaluated the possible involvement of the hepatic sympathetic nerve fibers in this model. Results: The mortality rate and the liver-to-body weight ratio after cancer inoculation were significantly higher in the vagotomized mice than in the sham-operated mice. The vagotomized mice exhibited a transient decrease in hepatic norepinephrine levels following cancer inoculation. Interestingly, the vagotomy-induced exacerbation of liver metastasis was attenuated by supplementary norepinephrine or phenylephrine, a selective α1-adrenoceptor agonist, but not by clonidine, a selective α2-adrenoceptor agonist. Conclusion: Collectively, these results suggest that the hepatic vagus nerve may play a protective role against liver metastasis. Hepatic sympathetic nerves may also be involved as a protective efferent loop, possibly acting through the α1-adrenoceptor.
Short-Term Results of Intravitreal Triamcinolone Acetonide Combined with Cataract Surgery for Diabetic Macular Edema in Japan: In the Era of Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Therapy
Authors: Nunome Takayasu , Sugimoto Masahiko , Kondo Mineo  , Suto Chikako
Published: April 2018

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of an intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide injection (IVTA) combined with cataract surgery for diabetic macular edema (DME) resistant to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy. Procedure: IVTA combined with cataract surgery was performed on 29 eyes of patients with DME (aged 70.5 ± 6.2 years) who were refractive to anti-VEGF treatments. The visual acuity, central retinal thickness (CRT), and the central retinal sensitivity were assessed at 1, 4, 12, and 24 weeks after the treatment. Results: The visual acuity improved significantly from 0.49 ± 0.30 logMAR units to 0.35 ± 0.33 logMAR units at 24 weeks after the treatment (p < 0.05; repeated ANOVA). The CRT decreased significantly from 435.1 ± 112.3 μm to 350.8 ± 123.3 μm at 12 weeks after the treatment (p < 0.05). The retinal sensitivity threshold also improved significantly from 18.2 ± 4.3 dB to 20.4 ± 3.8 dB at 4 weeks after the treatment (p < 0.05). Conclusions: IVTA combined with cataract surgery is effective for successful treatment of eyes with DME refractive to anti-VEGF therapy.
Checkpoint Kinase 1 Is Overexpressed during HPV16-Induced Cervical Carcinogenesis
Authors: Lin Wei , Chen Suxiu
Published: April 2018

Purpose: Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death among women worldwide. Checkpoint kinase 1 (Chk1) has a critical role in DNA damage response and cell cycle checkpoint control. Emerging evidence suggests that Chk1 promotes tumor growth. However, whether Chk1 is important for development of cervical cancer is largely unknown. Methods: The levels of Chk1 mRNA expression were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction in a panel of 90 cervical specimens, including 30 cervical cancer tissues, 30 CIN II–III, and 30 normal cervical tissues. We investigated the correlation between Chk1 and HPV16 E6/E7 at the mRNA level using another 30 CIN II–III and 32 cervical cancer tissues with HPV16 infection. MTT and cell cycle assays were conducted to show the function role of Chk1 in cervical cancer SiHa cells. Results: Chk1 was gradually increased during cervical lesion progression and positively correlated with HPV16 E6/E7 expression. Inhibition of Chk1 resulted in suppressed cell proliferation concomitant with the blocking of cell cycle at S-phase in cervical cancer SiHa cells. Conclusions: These results indicate that maintained Chk1 expression by HPV16 E6/E7 in cervical cancer cells promotes cell growth by blocking the cell cycle progression, and may point to novel strategies for targeting Chk1 in cancer therapy.
Perioperative Changes and Progress in Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate with GreenLight XPS 180 W System: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Reimann Maximilian , Fishman Nikita , Almedom Zenai , Lichy Isabel , Buckendahl John , Steiner Ursula , Friedersdorff Frank , Busch Jonas , Fuller Tom Florian , Miller Kurt , Hinz Stefan , Cash Hannes
Published: April 2018

Purpose: The study aimed to evaluate progression of GreenLight-XPS 180 W photoselective vaporization of the prostate (GL-XPS) with respect to effectiveness, efficacy, and safety over time at a tertiary referral high volume center. Methods: The retrospective study included 375 men who underwent GL-XPS for symptomatic benign prostate obstruction (BPO) between June 2010 and February 2015. Primary outcome measurements were operation time (OT; min) and effective laser time (LT; min of OT) analyzed with regard to prostatic volume (PV; mL) (group 1 <40 mL up to 4 >80 mL in 20 mL steps) and the year of surgery (2010–2015). Results: The median age was 72 years (range 64–79), the median PV was 58 mL (range 33–98) and the median PV increased from 42 mL in 2012 to 80 mL in 2015. The OT and LT clearly correlated with the PV, being doubled for glands of median 95 mL compared to median 30 mL while the applied laser energy per LT likewise steadily increased. Overall, both OT and LT could be significantly reduced each year by 37% (OT; p < 0.05) and 36% (LT; p < 0.05) within 5 years. The hospital stay (days) and catheterization time (days) remained constant, without any changes over time. The overall complication rate (Clavien-Dindo >2) ranged from 36 to 15% between 2010 and 2015. The pre (median 22 + 4) and postoperative International Prostate Symptom Score-Quality of Life (median 5 + 1) showed a sufficient reduction in symptomatic BPO. Conclusion: GL-XPS is a safe and effective surgical method for symptomatic BPO. Our single center experience showed a significant improvement of both OT and effective LT within 5 years whilst maintaining stable low complication rate and high patient satisfaction.
Role of Alpha-Smooth Muscle Actin and Fibroblast Activation Protein Alpha in Ovarian Neoplasms
Authors: da Silva Ana Carolinne , Jammal Millena Prata , Etchebehere Renata Margarida , Murta Eddie Fernando Candido , Nomelini Rosekeila Simões
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Studies show that tumor growth is not just determined by the presence of malignant cells, since interactions between cancer cells and stromal microenvironment have important impacts on the cancer growth and progression. Cancer-associated fibroblasts play a prominent role in this process. The aims of the study were to investigate 2 cancer-associated fibroblasts markers, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAP) in the stromal microenvironment of benign and malignant ovarian epithelial neoplasms, and to relate their tissue expression with prognostic factors in ovarian cancer. Methods: α-SMA and FAP were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in malignant (n = 28) and benign (n = 28) ovarian neoplasms. Fisher’s exact test was used with a significance level lower than 0.05. Results: FAP immunostaining was stronger in ovarian cancer when compared to benign neoplasms (p = 0.0366). There was no significant difference in relation to α-SMA expression between malignant and benign ovarian neoplasms as well as prognostic factors. In ovarian cancer, FAP stainings 2/3 was significantly related to histological grades 2 and 3 (p = 0.0183). Conclusion: FAP immunostaining is more intense in malignant neoplasms than in benign ovarian neoplasms, as well as in moderately differentiated and undifferentiated ovarian carcinomas compared to well-differentiated neoplasms, thus indicating that it can be used as a marker of worse prognosis.
Associating Liver Partition and Portal Vein Ligation for Staged Hepatectomy in the Treatment of Colorectal Liver Metastases: Current Scenario
Authors: Lang Hauke , Baumgart Janine , Mittler Jens
Published: April 2018

Associating Liver Partition and Portal vein ligation for Staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) has expanded the surgical armamentarium for patients with advanced and bilateral colorectal liver metastases. However, the enthusiasm that the medical fraternity had about ALPPS was hampered by a high mortality rate and early and frequent tumor recurrence. While surgical safety has improved, mainly due to technical refinements and a better patient selection, the oncological value in the face of early tumor recurrence remains unclear. The only randomized controlled trial on ALPPS versus two-stage hepatectomy (TSH) so far confirmed that ALPPS led to higher resectability with comparable perioperative complication rate, but oncological outcome was not measured. Robust data regarding long-term outcome are still missing. TSH and ALPPS might be complementary strategies for the resection of colorectal liver metatsases (CRLM) with ALPPS being reserved for patients with no other surgical option, that is, after failed portal vein embolization or those with an extremely small future liver remnant. In other words, ALPPS can be considered a supplementary tool and a last resort in the liver surgeon’s hand to offer resectability in otherwise nonresectable CRLM. In these individual cases, and always embedded into a multimodal treatment setting, ALPPS may offer a chance of complete tumor removal and prolonged survival and even a chance for cure.
Relationship between the von Willebrand Factor Plasma Concentration and Ultrasonographic Doppler Findings in Pregnancies Complicated by Hypertensive Disorders: A Pilot Study
Authors: Szpera-Gozdziewicz Agata , Gozdziewicz Tomasz , Boruczkowski Maciej , Dworacki Grzegorz , Breborowicz Grzegorz H.
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Recent evidence suggests that impaired cytotrophoblast proliferation and migration are major factors responsible for the development of hypertension in pregnancy. Studies report that von Willebrand factor (vWf) is a specific endothelial damage plasma marker. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between vWf maternal plasma concentration and maternal and fetal Doppler flow measurements in pregnancies complicated by hypertension. It may provide additional insight into the pathophysiology of pregnancy-related hypertension and show the potential method for disease prevention and therapy. Methods: We created 3 study groups: pregnant women with chronic hypertension (n = 10), gestational hypertension (n = 18), preeclampsia (n = 21), and control (22 healthy pregnant women). Every woman underwent ultrasound Doppler flow measurements performed simultaneously with venous blood collection. The vWf plasma concentrations were assessed using the commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Results: The preeclampsia group had significantly higher vWf plasma concentrations in those patients with ultrasonographic features of placental insufficiency than in those without these characteristics (638 ± 208 vs. 377 ± 74 ng/mL; p < 0.017). Conclusion: Our results may confirm the arrangement and severity of endothelial damage in preeclamptic patients and may have identified those patients with a significantly higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Adenolipoma of the Skin: A Report of 11 Cases
Authors: Amir Rawan  , Sheikh Salwa 
Published: April 2018

Introduction: Adenolipoma is a relatively recently described lesion representing a rare variant of lipoma in which eccrine glands and ducts are found interspersed amongst mature adipose tissue. This benign lesion was first described by Hitchcock et al. in 1993 [J Am Acad Dermatol 1993; 29: 82–85]. The next case series was written by Ait-Ourhrouil and Grosshans [Ann Dermatol Venerol 1997; 124: 845–848] in which they deemed adenolipoma a misnomer based on the pathophysiology of the lesion and suggested the name peri-sudoral lipoma instead. According to our knowledge, this case series would be the third in the literature to report cases of adenolipoma in an attempt to increase awareness of this entity. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of adenolipoma cases from 2004 to 2014 at our institute. Results and Conclusions: Upon review of all adenolipomas diagnosed at our institute between 2004 and 2014, 11 cases in total were identified. Histologically, these lesions consisted of an admixture of adult-like adipose tissue and scattered eccrine glands and ducts. 4 cases also showed areas of myxoid changes; 2 showed scattered mast cells amongst the adipose tissue, and only 1 showed the presence of apocrine glands in addition to the eccrine glands and ducts. The female to male ratio was 6: 5. The typical age ranged from 41 to 53 years. Adenolipomas were seen arising from various locations including the thighs, gluteal region, lower leg, shoulder, chest, and trunk. The majority of cases were not fully encapsulated and the size varied from 0.7 to 5.8 cm.
Fibroblast Growth Factor 23: A Biomarker of Kidney Function Decline
Authors: Drew David A. , Katz Ronit , Kritchevsky Stephen , Ix Joachim H. , Shlipak Michael G. , Newman Anne B. , Hoofnagle Andy , Fried Linda , Sarnak Mark J. , Gutierrez Orlando M.
Published: April 2018

Background: Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) is a hormone that regulates phosphorus levels and vitamin D metabolism. Previous studies have shown FGF-23 to be a risk factor for incident end-stage renal disease; however, there are less data on the association of FGF-23 with earlier kidney-related outcomes. Methods: Serum FGF-23 was assayed using an intact ELISA assay in 2,496 participants of the Healthy Aging and Body Composition Study, a cohort of well-functioning older adults. Kidney function was estimated by assaying cystatin C at baseline and years 3 and 10. The associations between FGF-23 and decline in kidney function (defined by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline ≥30% or ≥3 mL/min/year) and incident chronic kidney disease (CKD; incident eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and ≥1 mL/min/year decline) were evaluated. Models were adjusted for demographics, baseline eGFR, urine albumin/creatinine ratio, comorbidity, and serum calcium, phosphorus, 25(OH) vitamin D and parathyroid hormone. Results: The mean (SD) age was 75 (3) years, with 52% female and 38% black. There were 405 persons with 30% decline, 702 with >3 mL/min/year decline, and 536 with incident CKD. In fully adjusted continuous models, doubling of FGF-23 concentrations was not associated with kidney function decline (OR [95% CI] = 0.98 [0.82–1.19] for ≥30% decline and OR 1.17 [95% CI 1.00–1.37] for ≥3 mL/min/year decline), or incident CKD (incident rate ratio [IRR] 1.05 [95% CI 0.91–1.22]). In adjusted quartile analysis, the highest quartile of FGF-23 was significantly associated with incident CKD (IRR 1.27 [95% CI 1.02–1.58] for highest vs. lowest quartile). Conclusion: Higher FGF-23 concentrations were not consistently associated with decline in kidney function or incident CKD in community-dwelling older adults.
Loading MiR-210 in Endothelial Progenitor Cells Derived Exosomes Boosts Their Beneficial Effects on Hypoxia/Reoxygeneation-Injured Human Endothelial Cells via Protecting Mitochondrial Function
Authors: Ma Xiaotang , Wang Jinju , Li Jiao , Ma Chunlian , Chen Shuzhen , Lei Wei , Yang Yi , Liu Shiming , Bihl Ji , Chen Can
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Stem cell-derived exosomes (EXs) offer protective effects on various cells via their carried microRNAs (miRs). Meanwhile, miR-210 has been shown to reduce mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction. In this study, we determined the potential effects of endothelial progenitor cell-derived EXs (EPC-EXs) on hypoxia/ reoxygenation (H/R) injured endothelial cells (ECs) and investigated whether these effects could be boosted by miR-210 loading. Methods: Human EPCs were used to generate EPC-EXs, or transfected with scrambler control or miR-210 mimics to generate EPC-EXssc and EPC-EXsmiR-210. H/R-injured human ECs were used as a model for functional analysis of EXs on apoptosis, viability, ROS production and angiogenic ability (migration and tube formation) by flow cytometry, MTT, dihydroethidium and angiogenesis assay kits, respectively. For mechanism analysis, the mitochondrion morphology, membrane potential (MMP), ATP level and the expression of fission/fusion proteins (dynamin-related protein 1: drp1 and mitofusin-2: mfn2) were assessed by using JC-1 staining, ELISA and western blot, respectively. Results: 1) Transfection of miR-210 mimics into EPCs induced increase of miR-210 in EPC-EXsmiR-210 without change of average size; 2) EPC-EXsmiR-210, but not EPC-EXs or EPC-EXssc, significantly elevated miR-210 level in ECs; 3) EPC-EXsmiR-210 were more effective than EPC-EXs and EPC-EXssc in reducing H/R-induced EC apoptosis, ROS overproduction and angiogenic dysfunction; 4) EPC-EXs decreased mitochondrial fragmentation, elevated MMP and ATP level, as well as improved mitochondrial mfn2 and drp1 dysregulation, which were more effective in EPC-EXsmiR-210. Conclusion: Our results suggest that EPC-EXs protect ECs against H/R injury via improving mitochondrial function and miR-210 enrichment could boost their effects.
Exosomes Derived from Dendritic Cells Attenuate Liver Injury by Modulating the Balance of Treg and Th17 Cells After Ischemia Reperfusion
Authors: Zheng Lei , Li Zhi , Ling Wei , Zhu Deming , Feng Zhiwen , Kong Lianbao
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: The present study aimed to evaluate the effects as well as the underlying mechanisms of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) and exosomes produced by BMDCs (DEXs) on hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury (IRI). Methods: Primary hepatocytes were isolated and used to mimic the liver IR microenvironment. BMDCs were induced and characterized both biochemically with a flow cytometer (FCM) and biophysically with a microscope. Then, we exposed BMDCs to the supernatants from primary hepatocytes and evaluated the maturation of BMDCs by FCM. BMDCs were systemically injected into mice before liver IR via the tail vein, and the therapeutic effects were evaluated. The serum levels of transaminases (aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), inflammatory cytokines, and histological changes were respectively examined by ELISA, RT-qPCR and microscopy. Furthermore, we isolated DEXs by ultracentrifugation, characterized DEXs by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and nanosight tracking analysis (NTA) and western blotting (WB), and then we co-cultured BMDCs/DEXs and naïve T cells and performed FCM, ELISA and confocal imaging. Moreover, we injected DEXs into mice prior to liver IR via the tail vein and examined its therapeutic effects by microscopy and ELISA. Finally, inhibitors of HSP70 (cmHSP70.1), PI3K (BKM120) and mTOR (Rapamycin) were used to investigate the role of HSP70 and the PI3K/mTOR axis in the effects of DEXs on naïve T cells by WB and FCM. Results: Bone marrow cells were efficiently induced into dendritic cells (DCs) with typical DC characteristics. The supernatants from primary hepatocytes exposed to H/R upregulated DC maturation markers. After DC administration, liver IR injury was improved with histopathological scores and serum transaminases. Additionally, we found that the anti-inflammatory cytokines TGF-β, Foxp3 and interleukin (IL)-10 were upregulated and that IL-17 was downregulated. Furthermore, confocal imaging revealed that the uptake of H/R-DEXs by naïve T cells was greater than that of DEXs derived from the control or negative group of BMDCs, and this increase was correlated with a significantly greater degree of differentiation of Tregs and Th17 cells. Moreover, H/R-DEXs administration improved liver function in mice after IR. Finally, the inhibition of HSP70, PI3K and mTOR completely abolished the effect of DEXs on naïve T cells. Conclusion: These results demonstrated that BMDCs and DEXs could alleviate hepatic I/R injury via modulating the balance between Tregs and Th17 cells. DEXs transported HSP70 into naïve T cells and stimulated the PI3K/mTOR axis to modulate the balance between Tregs and Th17 cells and protect the liver from IR injury.
MicroRNA-214-5p Inhibits the Invasion and Migration of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells by Targeting Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Like
Authors: Li Hongdan , Wang Haoqi , Ren Zhen
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: This study aims to explore the effects of microRNA-214-5p (miR-214-5p) on the invasion and migration of Hepatocellular Carcinoma cells (HCC). Methods: Hepatocellular Carcinoma tissues and adjacent normal tissues from 44 hepatocellular carcinoma patients were prepared for this study. The HepG2 and BEL-7402 cells were transfected with miR-214-5p mimic and inhibitor. qRT-PCR was performed to detect the expressions of miR-214-5p. Transwell assays were used to detect the invasion and migration assays in HepG2 and BEL-7402 cells. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was conducted to examine the effect of miR-214-5p on Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Like (WASL/ N-WASP). Western blot and qRT-PCR were used to measure the expressions of the E-cadherin, N-cadherin and Vimentin proteins. Transwell chamber assays were performed to detect cell invasion and migration. Results: Compared with normal tissues, HCC tissues demonstrated significantly lower expression of miR-214-5p. Overexpression of miR-214-5p significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of HCC cells and inhibition of miR-214-5p promoted the migration and invasion. Additionally, miR-214-5p suppressed the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Further study showed WASL was a putative target gene of miR-214-5p. Up-regulating the expression of WASL could reverse the inhibition effect of miR-214-5p on invasion and migration. Conclusion: Our data suggested that miR-214-5p inhibited the invasion and migration of HepG2 and BEL-7402 by targeting WASL in Hepatocellular carcinoma.
Firearms: Ownership, Laws & and The Case for Community Mobilization
Authors: Haider Muhiuddin , Frank Jared
Published: April 2018

The United States (U.S.) currently ranks number one in the world in both the quantity of privately owned guns and the rate of private gun ownership. These privately owned firearms, which include rifles, shotguns and handguns, are predominantly owned by middle-aged, 35-54, white men, but the gaps have been steadily closing over the years, especially depending on the type of firearm, in all areas including gender, age, race, education level, political affiliation and geographic location. Gun violence is a leading cause of injury death in the U.S. In examining gun violence and potentially reducing its incidence, this article reviews gun ownership, access and utilization in the U.S., outcomes of gun violence, and the impact of community involvement in reducing gun violence. Specific areas of focus include the current state of background checks, with a focus on mental illness, and the role of medical professionals in guiding gun policy development. Gun violence continues to negatively impact the safety of individuals, families and communities. This article will emphasize the importance of social mobilization in enacting meaningful changes in gun policy and the development of relationships among healthcare professionals, social workers, and community members so as to further reduce and/or prevent gun violence.
Breakfast Skipping and Obesity Risk among Urban Adults in Bangladesh
Authors: Goon Shatabdi , Islam Md. Saiful
Published: April 2018

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Positive association between skipping breakfast and overweight and obesity is globally observed regardless of cultural diversity among countries. A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed on a total of 426 urban adults, who were randomly selected in a nutrition counseling center of Dhaka city, Bangladesh. The objective of this study was determining the association between breakfast skipping and obesity risk in urban adults of Bangladesh. Results indicated that approximately 35.2% of the sample skipped breakfast. Gender was the only statistically significant sociodemographic variable, with females skipping at two times the rate of males (OR 95% CI: 1.9; 1.3-2.9). Obesity was detected among 39.5% of breakfast skippers and they showed significantly high prevalence (X2=30.15, p<0.05). Skippers were significantly more likely being obese (OR 3.5; 95% CI 2.2-5.5) and obesity was more prevalent in female skippers (X2=8.7, p<0.05), with three times more compared to male skippers (OR 95% CI: 2.8; 1.4-5.9). Breakfast skipping is highly prevalent among urban adult population with significant association of obesity in Bangladesh. Health promotion strategies should be used to encourage all adults to eat breakfast regularly.

 
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Association Between Cytomegalovirus Infection and Bad Obstetric Outcomes in Women from Kirkuk
Authors: Majeed Hassan Hala Mohamed , Alsamarai Abdulghani Mohamed , Aljumaili Zainab Khalil , Alobaidi Amina Hamed , Alsalihi Ferah Ghali
Published: April 2018

The human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is one of the common viral infections worldwide that represent a major causes of congenital infections. To determine the seroprevalence of CMV in women with bad obstetric history and sociodemographic characteristics that may influence the seropositivity, a case control descriptive prospective study  was conducted in Kirkuk, Iraq. A 838 women with age range from 14 to 48 were included in the study. Of the total, 547 women were with bad obstetric history(BOH) and 291 women with normal previous pregnancy as control group. All the serum samples collected from the study and control groups were tested for CMV IgM and IgG antibodies by ELISA kits. CMV IgM seroprevalence was higher in women with BOH. CMV IgG seroprevalence was with no significant  difference between BOH and control. CMV IgG seroprevalence significantly influenced by age, education, smoking, and family size. However, CMV IgM seroprevalence significantly associated with pregnancy, residence, and animal exposure. Odd ratio confirmed the association between CMV IgG and age, crowding index, residence, smoking, and number of abortion in women with BOH.  In addition, current CMV infection significantly associated with residence in women with BOH.
Fish Marketing Status with Formalin Treatment in Bangladesh
Authors: Goon Shatabdi , Bipasha Munmun , Islam Md. Saiful , Hossain Md. Bellal
Published: April 2018

Fish possess an extremely strong cultural attachment considering irreplaceable animal food source in Bangladeshi diet beset with nutritional importance. It has been getting endangered by abominable practice of formalin in marketing leaded by some deceitful traders counting profit beyond ethical attainment and endangering public health. This paper outlines the formalin extremity with a several years practice in fish marketing involving almost 5% city markets with a petty heterogeneity comprising contrastive and potential strategy with formalin access. Regardless, this formalin corruption affiliated with deleterious health aggravations both for traders and consumers, comes out with impotency in workforce contravening economical influence on overall national prosperity.
The Impact of Environmental Factors on Malaria Prevalence in a Peri-Urban Community in Kwara State, Nigeria
Authors: Mokuolu Olubunmi Ajike , D Adegboye Oluwayemisi , A Mokuolu Olugbenga
Published: April 2018

There is a consensus on the relationship between Malaria Prevalence (MP) and Environmental Factors (EF); however, there is a dearth of published data providing this evidence in a quantifiable way. This community based study was undertaken to identify the magnitude of the relationship between MP and key environmental factors in Okelele, Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria. A multi-staged sampling procedure was adopted for the selection of 501 children from 200 households. Children under the age of 14 years in the selected households were sampled to obtain baseline MP using malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test (mRDT) kit. Key household informant interviews and structured questionnaire were used. Relevant socio-demographic characteristics of the households, EF and non EF were determined. Acquired data was analyzed using statistical tools to determine the relationship between various independent variables and mRDT. Variables were also entered into a multiple regression equation for the generation of a mathematical model. Ethical consent was obtained from the parents before samples were taken.The study showed that EF contributed to MP in the study area.  Integrated waste management system, and regular environmental sanitation were recommended.
Predictors of Immunization Defaulting among Children Age 12-23 Months in Hawassa Zuria District of Southern Ethiopia: Community Based Unmatched Case Control Study
Authors: Tesfaye Fikru , Tamiso Alemu , Birhan Yemane , Tadele Tariku
Published: April 2018

As part of the overall package of maternal and child health services in Ethiopia, all children are provided with free immunization services and it is available in all government health facilities, both in rural and urban areas. But significant number of children was defaulted from Immunization schedule, even after the health extension program was launched. Therefore, the study was assessed predictors of immunization defaulting among children age range of 12-23 months, in Hawassa Zuria district of southern Ethiopia. Unmatched case control study was conducted in six Kebeles which were selected from 26 kebeles by simple random sampling techniques. Cases were children in the age ranges of 12 - 23 months who did not complete the recommended immunization. All cases (105) and controls (209) in the kebeles were identified by using health posts Vaccine registration book. Bivariable and multiple logistic regression model were used to identify important predictor of immunization defaulting. P-value of less than 0.05 was considered as the level of significances. The study identified educational status, place of delivery, immunization related knowledge, ANC follow up and household wealth status as significant predictors of defaulting from immunization schedules. Sustained health education on vaccination related knowledge and institutional delivery services utilization will be needed. The household literacy and economic status should also get emphasis so as to decreases defaulting of children from immunization schedule.
Maternal Knowledge and Practices towards Sanitation and Their Relationships with Occurrence of Diarrhoea in Children
Authors: Seksaria Shriya Ankit , Sheth Mini K
Published: April 2018

Diarrhoea, a major contributor of childhood morbidity and mortality is mostly caused by poor hygiene and sanitation. Literature reveal that hygiene practices at household levels greatly affects the occurrence of diarrhoea among children. A cross sectional study was conducted to determine association between hygiene knowledge and practices of mothers with occurrence of diarrhoea in young children below 3 years in the tribal villages of Gujarat. Structured questionnaire was used to elicit information on personal hygiene (PH), food Hygiene (FH), and environmental Hygiene (EH) practices of 536 mothers with children between 6-36 months of age. Past one month diarrhoeal episodes were recorded using the recall method. The mean percent scores for FH, PH and EH practices were 77%, 88% and 80% respectively. Almost 35% children suffered from diarrhoea in the past one month of which 10 were admitted to the hospital. Diarrhoeal incidences were associated with FH and EH practices (p<0.001) and not with PH practices. Improvement in the environmental and personal hygiene practices of the mothers can contribute largely in reducing the prevalence of diarrhoea among children in Chikhli taluka of Gujarat.
Using Data Mining to Predict Possible Future Depression Cases
Authors: Daimi Kevin , Banitaan Shadi
Published: April 2018

Depression is a disorder characterized by misery and gloominess felt over a period of time. Some symptoms of depression overlap with somatic illnesses implying considerable difficulty in diagnosing it. This paper contributes to its diagnosis through the application of data mining, namely classification, to predict patients who will most likely develop depression or are currently suffering from depression. Synthetic data is used for this study. To acquire the results, the popular suite of machine learning software, WEKA, is used.
Anxiety and Family Support on Infected TORCH Patients
Authors: Valevi Eirene Shinta , Handayani Lina
Published: April 2018

TORCH is an acronym of Toxoplasmosis, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes simplex diseases. These diseases can cause abnormalities in the brain, impaired psychomotor and cognitive function, fertility, miscarriage, birth defects, etc. Infected TORCH patient tend to experience anxiety and worry after discovering he/she was diagnosed infected TORCH. For infected TORCH patient, family support is external factors that influence the treatment TORCH process. The purpose of this study was to describe the anxiety and family support on infected TORC patients in Klinik Utama Thursina Husada,Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The design of this study was descriptive qualitative with case study approach. All subjects in this study had worries on costly medical expenses TORCH. TORCH symptoms that asymptomatic made informants and family ever thought that it was a non-medical disease. Each informant can overcome the anxiety that they face because of emotional support, esteem support, instrumental support, and informational support from family. Infected TORCH caused the patient had anxiety and worries. Family support was very helpful in the process of TORCH treatment.
Factors Affecting Adherence to Pediatrics Antiretroviral Therapy in Mekelle Hospital, Tigray Ethiopia
Authors: Gultie Teklemariam , G/Amlak Tesfay , Sebsibie Girum
Published: April 2018

The most important factor in the success of HIV treatment is adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART).The challenge to adherence to ART is particularly serious in Sub-Saharan Africa as the high rates of HIV/AIDS lead to greater numbers of affected individuals. Although long-term good ART adherence has been observed in certain settings of public sectors the magnitude of this challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa remains large and there is evidence for high rates of patient’s poor adherence. Study aimed to assess the factors affecting adherence to pediatrics antiretroviral therapy (ART) among children in Mekelle hospital, Tigray, Ethiopia. A Hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted on 226 children on antiretroviral therapy from May 01 to 30/2014 at Mekelle hospital. Data was collected from care givers of children under 15 years old who are on ART. Of the 226 children under 15 years, 90.3 % reported complete adherence to antiretroviral therapy medications at the regular schedule over the past 7 days. Factors associated with adherence were having male care giver (AOR=2.10[1.01, 7.22]), age of the child (AOR=1.43[1.16, 3.98]) below 5 years and use of first line ART drugs (AOR=2.86[1.54, 3.67]). Over all the adherence of children on ART to their medication in this study is relatively higher as compared to others. However, complete adherence is expected in order to make the drugs effective. Different strategies have to be designed to improve the adherence level.
Comparative Antioxidant Activity on The Ficus benjamina and Annona reticulata Leaves
Authors: Saptarini Nyi Mekar , Herawati Irma Erika
Published: April 2018

Antioxidants can prevent free radical formation. Natural antioxidants found in many plants, such as Ficus benjamina and Annona reticulata. The study aimed to compare the antioxidant activity of extracts and fractions of Ficus benjamina and Annona reticulata leaves against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrilhydrazyl. The steps of this study consist of extraction, fractionation with n-hexane, ethyl acetate and water, phytochemical screening, antioxidant activity determination, and comparing the IC50 values. Percentage scavenging activity of the extracts and fractions against DPPH was calculated to determine the antioxidant activity. The IC50 value of Ficus benjamina was 127.86 ppm for ethanolic extract, 94.01 ppm for water fraction, 115.48 ppm for ethyl acetate fraction, and 335.50 ppm for n-hexane fraction. The IC50 value of Annona reticulata was 274.31 ppm for ethanolic extract, 211.42 ppm for water fraction, 367.91 ppm for ethyl acetate fraction, and 741.08 ppm for n-hexane fraction. The results showed that the Ficus benjamina water fraction was the best antioxidant compared to other extract and fraction.