bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studying Effects of Fence and Sheltering on the Aerodynamic Forces Experienced by Parabolic Trough Solar Collectors
Authors: Baniamerian Zahra , Mehdipour Ramin
Published: October 2016

Influences of proper fence installation around solar farms for decreasing aerodynamic factors due to wind force on parabolic trough collectors are comprehensively studied using two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model. Fences are treated as porous media to be investigated from the viewpoint of their influences on wind flow. The aerodynamic factors are calculated for the collectors in case of different fence types. Comprehensive discussions about the effects of types of employed fences and their distance from the first row collectors as well as collectors' slope angle on aerodynamic forces are also presented. Sheltering and fence effects are considered by an innovative modeling approach that is proposed in this study. It is shown that fence installation can considerably decrease aerodynamic factors. Effects of formed vortices behind collectors were significant and should be taken into consideration during the design. Brick-type fences are shown to behave poor while lace-type fences are advised.
Effects of age and hearing loss on overshoot
Authors: Jennings Skyler G. , Ahlstrom Jayne B. , Dubno Judy R.
Published: October 2016

The detection of a brief, sinusoidal probe in a long broadband, simultaneous masker improves as the probe is delayed from the masker's onset. This improvement (“overshoot”) may be mediated by a reduction in cochlear amplifier gain over the timecourse of the masker via the medial olivocochlear (MOC) reflex. Overshoot was measured in younger adults with normal hearing and in older adults with normal and impaired hearing to test the hypothesis that aging and cochlear hearing loss result in abnormal overshoot, consistent with changes in certain structures along the MOC pathway. Overshoot decreased with increasing quiet probe thresholds and was only minimally influenced by increasing age. Marked individual differences in overshoot were observed due to differences in masking thresholds for probes presented near the masker's onset. Model simulations support the interpretation that reduced overshoot in hearing-impaired listeners is due to limited cochlear amplifier gain and therefore less gain to adjust over the timecourse of the masker. Similar overshoot among younger and older adults with normal hearing suggests that age-related changes to mechanisms underlying overshoot do not result in significant differences in overshoot among younger and older adults with normal hearing.
Selection-free genome editing of the sickle mutation in human adult hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells
Authors: DeWitt Mark A. , Magis Wendy , Bray Nicolas L. , Wang Tianjiao , Berman Jennifer R. , Urbinati Fabrizia , Heo Seok-Jin , Mitros Therese , Muñoz Denise P. , Boffelli Dario , Kohn Donald B. , Walters Mark C. , Carroll Dana , Martin David I. K. , Corn Jacob E.
Published: October 2016

Hematopoietic stem cells from patients with sickle cell disease can be edited by CRISPR/Cas9 and maintain the edits in vivo.
Analysis of Repair Mechanisms following an Induced Double-Strand Break Uncovers Recessive Deleterious Alleles in the Candida albicans Diploid Genome
Authors: Feri Adeline , Loll-Krippleber Raphaël , Commere Pierre-Henri , Maufrais Corinne , Sertour Natacha , Schwartz Katja , Sherlock Gavin , Bougnoux Marie-Elisabeth , d’Enfert Christophe , Legrand Mélanie
Published: October 2016

The diploid genome of the yeast
Candida albicans
is highly plastic, exhibiting frequent loss-of-heterozygosity (LOH) events. To provide a deeper understanding of the mechanisms leading to LOH, we investigated the repair of a unique DNA double-strand break (DSB) in the laboratory
C. albicans
SC5314 strain using the I-SceI meganuclease. Upon I-SceI induction, we detected a strong increase in the frequency of LOH events at an I-SceI target locus positioned on chromosome 4 (Chr4), including events spreading from this locus to the proximal telomere. Characterization of the repair events by single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) typing and whole-genome sequencing revealed a predominance of gene conversions, but we also observed mitotic crossover or break-induced replication events, as well as combinations of independent events. Importantly, progeny that had undergone homozygosis of part or all of Chr4 haplotype B (Chr4B) were inviable. Mining of genome sequencing data for 155
C. albicans
isolates allowed the identification of a recessive lethal allele in the
GPI16
gene on Chr4B unique to
C. albicans
strain SC5314 which is responsible for this inviability. Additional recessive lethal or deleterious alleles were identified in the genomes of strain SC5314 and two clinical isolates. Our results demonstrate that recessive lethal alleles in the genomes of
C. albicans
isolates prevent the occurrence of specific extended LOH events. While these and other recessive lethal and deleterious alleles are likely to accumulate in
C. albicans
due to clonal reproduction, their occurrence may in turn promote the maintenance of corresponding nondeleterious alleles and, consequently, heterozygosity in the
C. albicans
species.

IMPORTANCE
Recessive lethal alleles impose significant constraints on the biology of diploid organisms. Using a combination of an I-SceI meganuclease-mediated DNA DSB, a fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS)-optimized reporter of LOH, and a compendium of 155 genome sequences, we were able to unmask and identify recessive lethal and deleterious alleles in isolates of
Candida albicans
, a diploid yeast and the major fungal pathogen of humans. Accumulation of recessive deleterious mutations upon clonal reproduction of
C. albicans
could contribute to the maintenance of heterozygosity despite the high frequency of LOH events in this species.
Multiple Signals Govern Utilization of a Polysaccharide in the Gut Bacterium Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron
Authors: Schwalm Nathan D. , Townsend Guy E. , Groisman Eduardo A.
Published: October 2016

The utilization of simple sugars is widespread across all domains of life. In contrast, the breakdown of complex carbohydrates is restricted to a subset of organisms. A regulatory paradigm for integration of complex polysaccharide breakdown with simple sugar utilization was established in the mammalian gut symbiont
Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron
, whereby sensing of monomeric fructose regulates catabolism of both fructose and polymeric fructans. We now report that a different regulatory paradigm governs utilization of monomeric arabinose and the arabinose polymer arabinan. We establish that (i) arabinan utilization genes are controlled by a transcriptional activator that responds to arabinan and by a transcriptional repressor that responds to arabinose, (ii) arabinose utilization genes are regulated directly by the arabinose-responding repressor but indirectly by the arabinan-responding activator, and (iii) activation of both arabinan and arabinose utilization genes requires a pleiotropic transcriptional regulator necessary for survival in the mammalian gut. Genomic analysis predicts that this paradigm is broadly applicable to the breakdown of other polysaccharides in both
B. thetaiotaomicron
and other gut
Bacteroides
spp. The uncovered mechanism enables regulation of polysaccharide utilization genes in response to both the polysaccharide and its breakdown products.

IMPORTANCE
Breakdown of complex polysaccharides derived from “dietary fiber” is achieved by the mammalian gut microbiota. This breakdown creates a critical nutrient source for both the microbiota and its mammalian host. Because the availability of individual polysaccharides fluctuates with variations in the host diet, members of the microbiota strictly control expression of polysaccharide utilization genes. Our findings define a regulatory architecture that controls the breakdown of a polysaccharide by a gut bacterium in response to three distinct signals. This architecture integrates perception of a complex polysaccharide and its monomeric constituent as well as feedback of central metabolism. Moreover, it is broadly applicable to several prominent members of the mammalian gut microbiota. The identified regulatory strategy may contribute to the abundance of gut
Bacteroides
, despite fluctuations in the host diet.
Commensal Protection of Staphylococcus aureus against Antimicrobials by Candida albicans Biofilm Matrix
Authors: Kong Eric F. , Tsui Christina , Kucharíková Sona , Andes David , Van Dijck Patrick , Jabra-Rizk Mary Ann
Published: October 2016

Biofilm-associated polymicrobial infections, particularly those involving fungi and bacteria, are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality and tend to be challenging to treat.
Candida albicans
and
Staphylococcus aureus
specifically are considered leading opportunistic fungal and bacterial pathogens, respectively, mainly due to their ability to form biofilms on catheters and indwelling medical devices. However, the impact of mixed-species biofilm growth on therapy remains largely understudied. In this study, we investigated the influence of
C. albicans
secreted cell wall polysaccharides on the response of
S. aureus
to antibacterial agents in biofilm. Results demonstrated significantly enhanced tolerance for
S. aureus
to drugs in the presence of
C. albicans
or its secreted cell wall polysaccharide material. Fluorescence confocal time-lapse microscopy revealed impairment of drug diffusion through the mixed biofilm matrix. Using
C. albicans
mutant strains with modulated cell wall polysaccharide expression, exogenous supplementation, and enzymatic degradation, the
C. albicans
-secreted β-1,3-glucan cell wall component was identified as the key matrix constituent providing the bacteria with enhanced drug tolerance. Further, antibody labeling demonstrated rapid coating of the bacteria by the
C. albicans
matrix material. Importantly, via its effect on the fungal biofilm matrix, the antifungal caspofungin sensitized the bacteria to the drugs. Understanding such symbiotic interactions with clinical relevance between microbial species in biofilms will greatly aid in overcoming the limitations of current therapies and in defining potential new targets for treating polymicrobial infections.

IMPORTANCE
The fungus
Candida albicans
and the bacterium
Staphylococcus aureus
are important microbial pathogens responsible for the majority of infections in hospitalized patients and are often coisolated from a host. In this study, we demonstrated that when grown together, the fungus provides the bacterium with enhanced tolerance to antimicrobial drugs. This process was mediated by polysaccharides secreted by the fungal cell into the environment. The biofilm matrix formed by these polysaccharides prevented penetration by the drugs and provided the bacteria with protection. Importantly, we show that by inhibiting the production of the fungal polysaccharides, a specific antifungal agent indirectly sensitized the bacteria to antimicrobials. Understanding the therapeutic implications of the interactions between these two diverse microbial species will aid in overcoming the limitations of current therapies and in defining new targets for treating complex polymicrobial infections.
Spatial and Temporal Shifts in Bacterial Biogeography and Gland Occupation during the Development of a Chronic Infection
Authors: Keilberg Daniela , Zavros Yana , Shepherd Benjamin , Salama Nina R. , Ottemann Karen M.
Published: October 2016

Gland colonization may be one crucial route for bacteria to maintain chronic gastrointestinal infection. We developed a quantitative gland isolation method to allow robust bacterial population analysis and applied it to the gastric pathobiont
Helicobacter pylori
. After infections in the murine model system,
H. pylori
populations multiply both inside and outside glands in a manner that requires the bacteria to be motile and chemotactic.
H. pylori
is able to achieve gland densities averaging 25 to 40 bacteria/gland after 2 to 4 weeks of infection. After 2 to 4 weeks of infection, a primary infection leads to colonization resistance for a secondary infection. Nonetheless, about ~50% of the glands remained unoccupied, suggesting there are as-yet unappreciated parameters that prevent gastric gland colonization. During chronic infections,
H. pylori
populations collapsed to nearly exclusive gland localization, to an average of <8 bacteria/gland, and only 10% of glands occupied. We analyzed an
H. pylori
chemotaxis mutant (Che
−
) to gain mechanistic insight into gland colonization. Che
−
strains had a severe inability to spread to new glands and did not protect from a secondary infection but nonetheless achieved a chronic gland colonization state numerically similar to that of the wild type. Overall, our analysis shows that bacteria undergo substantial population dynamics on the route to chronic colonization, that bacterial gland populations are maintained at a low level during chronic infection, and that established gland populations inhibit subsequent colonization. Understanding the parameters that promote chronic colonization will allow the future successful design of beneficial microbial therapeutics that are able to maintain long-term mammalian colonization.

IMPORTANCE
Many bacteria have an impressive ability to stay in the gastrointestinal tract for decades despite ongoing flow and antimicrobial attacks. How this staying power is achieved is not fully understood, but it is important to understand as scientists plan so-called designer microbiomes. The gastrointestinal tract is lined with repeated invaginations called glands, which may provide one niche for chronic colonization. We developed a quantitative gland isolation method to allow robust and efficient bacterial population analysis and applied it to the gastric pathogen
Helicobacter pylori
. Bacterial populations increased inside and outside glands at early time points but were found exclusively within glands during late time points in the chronic state.
H. pylori
required the ability to swim to move to new glands. Last, a fit gland bacterial population leads to colonization resistance of a second one. Our approach identified previously unappreciated aspects of gland occupation, supporting the idea that glands are the desired niche for stable, chronic colonization.
Farnesoid X Receptor Signaling Shapes the Gut Microbiota and Controls Hepatic Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Zhang Limin , Xie Cen , Nichols Robert G. , Chan Siu H. J. , Jiang Changtao , Hao Ruixin , Smith Philip B. , Cai Jingwei , Simons Margaret N. , Hatzakis Emmanuel , Maranas Costas D. , Gonzalez Frank J. , Patterson Andrew D.
Published: October 2016

The farnesoid X receptor (FXR) plays an important role in mediating the dialog between the host and gut microbiota, particularly through modulation of enterohepatic circulation of bile acids. Mounting evidence suggests that genetic ablation of
Fxr
in the gut or gut-restricted chemical antagonism of the FXR promotes beneficial health effects, including the prevention of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in rodent models. However, questions remain unanswered, including whether modulation of FXR activity plays a role in shaping the gut microbiota community structure and function and what metabolic pathways of the gut microbiota contribute in an FXR-dependent manner to the host phenotype. In this report, new insights are gained into the metabolic contribution of the gut microbiota to the metabolic phenotypes, including establishing a link between FXR antagonism, bacterial bile salt hydrolase activity, and fermentation. Multiple approaches, including unique mouse models as well as metabolomics and genome-scale metabolic models, were employed to confirm these results.
Cocaine-induced very late stent thrombosis
Authors: Shah Priyank , Vasudev Rahul , Abuarqoub Ahmad Hisham , Shamoon Fayez
Published: October 2016

Cocaine misuse is a known cause of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Management of these patients has always been a challenge due to medication compliance and eventual risk of stent thrombosis. However, even cocaine misusers who are compliant with dual antiplatelet therapy have been reported to have stent thrombosis. All cases of cocaine-induced stent thrombosis reported in the literature have occurred within first year of stent placement (acute, subacute or late). We report a first case of very late stent thrombosis in a 54-year-old active cocaine misuser who presented with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction, which was successfully managed with percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. A review of all the reported cases of cocaine-induced stent thrombosis is also discussed. Given the high mortality associated with stent thrombosis, treatment option for cocaine misusers presenting with ACS should be conservative when possible. If percutaneous coronary intervention is needed, bare metal stent should be preferred.
Utility of high-resolution anorectal manometry and wireless motility capsule in the evaluation of patients with Parkinson's disease and chronic constipation
Authors: Su Andrew , Gandhy Rita , Barlow Carrolee , Triadafilopoulos George
Published: October 2016

Background

The aetiology of constipation in Parkinson's disease remains poorly understood. Defaecatory dyssynergia, anal sphincter spasticity and slow transit constipation may, individually or collectively, play a role.

Aims

In this retrospective cohort analysis of patients with Parkinson's disease and chronic constipation, we determined the utility of high-resolution anorectal manometry, balloon expulsion and wireless motility capsule testing in defining the underlying aetiology for constipation.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, consecutive patients with Parkinson's disease and chronic constipation underwent clinical assessment, manometry with balloon expulsion and wireless motility capsule testing using standard protocols.

Results

We studied 66 patients fulfilling Rome IV criteria for functional constipation. Most patients (89%) had abnormal manometry, exhibiting various types of defaecatory dyssynergia (mostly types II and IV), abnormal balloon expulsion, diminished rectal sensation and, in some, lacking rectoanal inhibitory reflex. 62% exhibited colonic transit delay by wireless motility capsule study, while 57% had combined manometric and transit abnormalities, suggesting of overlap constipation. Symptoms of infrequent defaecation, straining and incomplete evacuation were not discriminatory. There was a relationship between constipation scores and colonic transit times (p=0.01); Parkinson's disease scores and duration were not correlated with either the manometric or transit findings. Faecal incontinence was seen in 26% of the patients.

Conclusions

Chronic constipation in patients with Parkinson's disease may reflect pelvic floor dyssynergia, slow transit constipation or both, and may be associated with faecal incontinence, suggesting both motor and autonomic dysfunction. Anorectal manometry and wireless motility capsule testing are useful in the assessment of these patients.
Ophthalmologists' practice patterns and challenges in achieving optimal management for glaucoma in Nigeria: results from a nationwide survey
Authors: Kyari Fatima , Nolan Winifred , Gilbert Clare
Published: October 2016

Purpose of the study

Glaucoma, a chronic non-communicable disease, and leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide is a public health problem in Nigeria, with a prevalence of 5.02% in people aged ≥40 years. The purpose of this nationwide survey was to assess Nigerian ophthalmologists’ practice patterns and their constraints in managing glaucoma.

Study design

Ophthalmologists were sent a semistructured questionnaire on how they manage glaucoma, their training in glaucoma care, where they practice, their access to equipment for diagnosis and treatment, whether they use protocols and the challenges they face in managing patients with glaucoma.

Results

153/250 ophthalmologists in 80 centres completed questionnaires. Although 79% felt their training was excellent or good, 46% needed more training in glaucoma diagnosis and surgery. All had ophthalmoscopes, 93% had access to applanation tonometers, 81% to visual field analysers and 29% to laser machines (in 19 centres). 3 ophthalmologists had only ophthalmoscopes and schiøtz tonometers. For 85%, a glaucomatous optic disc was the most important feature that would prompt glaucoma work-up. Only 56% routinely performed gonioscopy and 61% used slit-lamp stereoscopic biomicroscopy for disc assessment. Trabeculectomy (with/without antimetabolites) was the only glaucoma surgery performed with one mention of canaloplasty. Poor compliance with medical treatment (78%) and low acceptance of surgery (71%) were their greatest challenges.

Conclusions

This study indicates that a systems-oriented approach is required to enhance ophthalmologist's capability for glaucoma care. Strategies to improve glaucoma management include strengthening poorly equipped centres including provision of lasers and training, and improving patients’ awareness and education on glaucoma.
Treatment for paediatric chronic fatigue syndrome or myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) and comorbid depression: a systematic review
Authors: Loades Maria E , Sheils Elizabeth A , Crawley Esther
Published: October 2016

Objectives

At least 30% of young people with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) also have symptoms of depression. This systematic review aimed to establish which treatment approaches for depression are effective and whether comorbid depression mediates outcome.

Setting

A systematic review was undertaken. The search terms were entered into MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycInfo and the Cochrane library.

Participants

Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to identify relevant papers. Inclusion criteria were children age <18, with CFS/ME, defined using CDC, NICE or Oxford criteria, and having completed a valid assessment for depression.

Results

9 studies were identified which met the inclusion criteria, but none specifically tested treatments for paediatric CFS/ME with depression and none stratified outcome for those who were depressed compared with those who were not depressed. There is no consistent treatment approach for children with CFS/ME and comorbid depression, although cognitive–behavioural therapy for CFS/ME and a multicomponent inpatient programme for CFS/ME have shown some promise in reducing depressive symptoms. An antiviral medication in a small scale, retrospective, uncontrolled study suggested possible benefit.

Conclusions

It is not possible to determine what treatment approaches are effective for depression in paediatric CFS/ME, nor to determine the impact of depression on the outcome of CFS/ME treatment. Young people with significant depression tend to have been excluded from previous treatment studies.
Evolution of primary care databases in UK: a scientometric analysis of research output
Authors: Vezyridis Paraskevas , Timmons Stephen
Published: October 2016

Objective

To identify publication and citation trends, most productive institutions and countries, top journals, most cited articles and authorship networks from articles that used and analysed data from primary care databases (CPRD, THIN, QResearch) of pseudonymised electronic health records (EHRs) in UK.

Methods

Descriptive statistics and scientometric tools were used to analyse a SCOPUS data set of 1891 articles. Open access software was used to extract networks from the data set (Table2Net), visualise and analyse coauthorship networks of scholars and countries (Gephi) and density maps (VOSviewer) of research topics co-occurrence and journal cocitation.

Results

Research output increased overall at a yearly rate of 18.65%. While medicine is the main field of research, studies in more specialised areas include biochemistry and pharmacology. Researchers from UK, USA and Spanish institutions have published the most papers. Most of the journals that publish this type of research and most cited papers come from UK and USA. Authorship varied between 3 and 6 authors. Keyword analyses show that smoking, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and mental illnesses, as well as medication that can treat such medical conditions, such as non-steroid anti-inflammatory agents, insulin and antidepressants constitute the main topics of research. Coauthorship network analyses show that lead scientists, directors or founders of these databases are, to various degrees, at the centre of clusters in this scientific community.

Conclusions

There is a considerable increase of publications in primary care research from EHRs. The UK has been well placed at the centre of an expanding global scientific community, facilitating international collaborations and bringing together international expertise in medicine, biochemical and pharmaceutical research.
Occupational stress in the ED: a systematic literature review
Authors: Basu Subhashis , Qayyum Hasan , Mason Suzanne
Published: October 2016

Introduction

Occupational stress is a major modern health and safety challenges. While the ED is known to be a high-pressure environment, the specific organisational stressors which affect ED staff have not been established.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of literature examining the sources of organisational stress in the ED, their link to adverse health outcomes and interventions designed to address them. A narrative review of contextual factors that may contribute to occupational stress was also performed. All articles written in English, French or Spanish were eligible for conclusion. Study quality was graded using a modified version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Results

Twenty-five full-text articles were eligible for inclusion in our systematic review. Most were of moderate quality, with two low-quality and two high-quality studies, respectively. While high demand and low job control were commonly featured, other studies demonstrated the role of insufficient support at work, effort–reward imbalance and organisational injustice in the development of adverse health and occupational outcomes. We found only one intervention in a peer-reviewed journal evaluating a stress reduction programme in ED staff.

Conclusions

Our review provides a guide to developing interventions that target the origins of stress in the ED. It suggests that those which reduce demand and increase workers' control over their job, improve managerial support, establish better working relationships and make workers' feel more valued for their efforts could be beneficial. We have detailed examples of successful interventions from other fields which may be applicable to this setting.
mTOR activity and its prognostic significance in human colorectal carcinoma depending on C1 and C2 complex-related protein expression
Authors: Sticz Tamás , Molnár Anna , Márk Ágnes , Hajdu Melinda , Nagy Noémi , Végső Gyula , Micsik Tamás , Kopper László , Sebestyén Anna
Published: October 2016

Aims

Tumour heterogeneity and altered activation of signalling pathways play important roles in therapy resistance. The PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling network is a well-known regulator of several functions that contribute to tumour growth. mTOR exists in two functionally different multiprotein complexes. We aimed to determine mTOR activity-related proteins in clinically followed, conventionally treated colon carcinomas and to analyse the correlation between clinical data and mTORC1 and mTORC2 activity.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was performed with different antibodies on tissue microarray blocks from 103 patients with human colorectal adenocarcinoma. mTORC1- and mTORC2-related activity were scored on different stainings including analysis of the expression of Raptor and Rictor—specific elements of mTORC1 and C2 complexes. The staining scores and clinical/survival data were compared and analysed.

Results

Detailed characterisation showed stage and grade independent high mTOR activity in 74% of cases. High mTOR activity was present in mTORC1 and/or mTORC2 complexes; >60% of cases had mTORC2-related high mTOR activity. Based on our analysis, high mTOR activity and Rictor overexpression could be markers of a bad prognosis. Combined phosphoprotein and Rictor/Raptor expression evaluation revealed even stronger statistical correlation with prognosis.

Conclusions

The presented staining panel could be appropriate and highly recommended for the accurate specification of mTORC1 and C2 activity of tumour tissues. This could help in the selection of mTOR inhibitors and can provide information about prognosis, which may guide decisions about the intensity of therapy.
Association and interaction analysis of diabetes mellitus andSCN10Afor cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy in a Chinese population
Authors: Lv Yubao , Zhou Linuo , Tang Zihui , Dong Jingcheng
Published: October 2016

Background

This study assessed the extent to which diabetes mellitus (DM) and SCN10A (rs7375036) and their interaction impact on cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) susceptibility in a Chinese Han sample.

Method

We performed a study in a cross-sectional dataset that included 419 patients with DM and 1557 controls who were genotyped for the presence of the SCN10A rs7375036 polymorphisms. Genotyping was performed by iPLEX technology. The associations of rs7375036 and DM with CAN was assessed by using univariate and multivariate logistic regression controlling for confounders. The interaction between rs7375036 and DM for CAN susceptibility on an additive scale was calculated by using the relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), the proportion attributable to interaction (AP), and the synergy index (S).

Results

The univariate logistic analyses failed to show an association between the SCN10A rs7375036 polymorphisms and CAN. Interestingly, a novel interaction effect of SCN10A rs7375036 and DM on CAN was assessed (p=0.055; RERI=3.515, 95% CI 1.829 to 5.805; AP=0.632, 95% CI −0.368 to 1.632; S=4.361, 95% CI 2.071 to 9.184).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that there are interaction effects of DM and SCN10A (rs7375036) that influence the development of CAN.

Trial registration number

NCT02461342
Clinical features and disease progression of L‐2‐hydroxyglutaric aciduria in 27 Staffordshire bull terriers
Authors: Shea A. , De Risio L. , Carruthers H. , Ekiri A. , Beltran E.
Published: October 2016

To describe the development of clinical signs (CS) and outcome of L‐2‐hydroxyglutaric aciduria (L‐2‐HGA), owners of 119 Staffordshire bull terriers positive for the known L‐2‐hydroxyglutarate dehydrogenase autosomal‐recessive mutations were requested to complete a questionnaire regarding their pet's CS. Questionnaires were returned for 27 dogs, all with neurological abnormalities—not all questions were answered in all cases. The mean age of CS onset was 12 months (range 2.5–60). Gait dysfunction was reported in 26/26 dogs, with stiffness of all four limbs the most common (24/26) and earliest recognised abnormality. Kyphosis (19/26), body and/or head tremors (19/26) and hypermetria (15/26) were frequent. Behavioural changes were present in 24/27 dogs; most commonly staring into space (21/24), signs of dementia (17/24) and loss of training (15/24). Eighteen dogs demonstrated paroxysmal seizure‐like/dyskinetic episodes. Nineteen (70 per cent) dogs were alive at a mean survival time of 76.6 months (12–170) after onset of CS. L‐2‐HGA was the cause of euthanasia in six dogs. Euthanasia occurred at a mean survival time of 44 months (8.5–93) after onset of CS, with 2/8 dogs euthanased within 12 months. L‐2‐HGA is considered a progressive neurological disease; however, CS can be successfully managed with affected dogs potentially living a normal lifespan.
A freedom from disease study: Schmallenberg virus in the south of England in 2015
Authors: Stokes Jessica Eleanor , Baylis Matthew , Duncan Jennifer Sarah
Published: October 2016

In 2011–2012, northern European livestock faced a threat from a newly emerged virus, Schmallenberg virus (SBV), only a few years after a major outbreak of bluetongue serotype 8 (BTV‐8). Like BTV‐8, SBV is transmitted by Culicoides biting midges to ruminants and spread throughout Europe. SBV, however, spread faster, reaching the UK within three months of initial discovery. Adult ruminants show only mild, if any, clinical signs; however, infection of naive ruminants by SBV during the vulnerable period of gestation leads to abortions, stillbirths and fetal malformations. Although some data exist for the prevalence of SBV on UK sheep farms early in the outbreak, we have no information on its current status. Is SBV still circulating in the UK? To answer this, the authors designed a freedom from disease study across the southernmost counties of the UK. During autumn 2015, 1444 sheep, from 131 farms, were tested for antibodies against SBV by ELISA; 5 samples from 4 farms were twice found positive by ELISA but were later confirmed negative by virus neutralisation test. As the sheep were born between October 2014 and April 2015, the authors conclude that it is unlikely that SBV is still circulating in the south of England.
Visualization of dominant stress-transfer mechanisms in experimental debris flows of different particle-size distribution
Authors: Sanvitale Nicoletta , Bowman Elisabeth T.
Published: October 2016

Physical modelling of debris flow in a small-scale flume has been carried out to investigate the internal stress-transfer mechanisms within unsteady, saturated, and segregating granular free-surface flows. Measurements of the internal velocity fields within model flows were obtained via planar laser–induced fluorescence and particle image velocimetry. Normalized velocity profiles taken at a section over the flow duration were found to essentially collapse onto a single curve, the shape of which was dependent on the particle-size distribution. While all flows exhibited internal basal slip and shear, for tests on well-graded materials that are most representative of debris flows, the shear rate was found to reduce towards the surface to near-zero, exhibiting near plug-flow. Dimensional analysis shows that particles of different size within these flows experienced different dominant stress-transfer mechanisms — frictional, collisional or viscous. Rapid grain-size segregation therefore is both due to and results in different modes of stress transfer within a single flow. This means that in a segregating and hence, stratified system, different flow regimes will act concurrently at microscale and mesoscale. Results highlight the complexity of debris flows, so that it may be undesirable to ascribe a single microscale constitutive behaviour throughout, and further calls into question the concept of flow regimes for debris flows based on bulk measurements.
Anti-inflammatory effect of selenium nanoparticles on the inflammation induced in irradiated rats
Authors: El-Ghazaly M.A. , Fadel N. , Rashed E. , El-Batal A. , Kenawy S.A.
Published: October 2016

Selenium (Se) has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory properties, but its bioavailability and toxicity are considerable limiting factors. The present study aimed to investigate the possible anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of selenium nanoparticles (Nano-Se) on inflammation induced in irradiated rats. Paw volume and nociceptive threshold were measured in carrageenan-induced paw edema and hyperalgesia model. Leukocytic count, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), prostaglandin E2(PGE2), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBAR), and total nitrate/nitrite (NOx) were estimated in the exudate collected from 6 day old air pouch model. Irradiated rats were exposed to 6 Gy gamma (γ)-irradiation. Nano-Se were administered orally in a dose of 2.55 mg/kg once before carrageenan injection in the first model and twice in the second model. The paw volume but not the nociceptive response produced by carrageenan in irradiated rats was higher than that induced in non-irradiated rats. Nano-Se were effective in reducing the paw volume in non-irradiated and irradiated rats but it did not alter the nociceptive threshold. The inflammation induced in irradiated rats increased all the estimated parameters in the exudate whereas; Nano-Se decreased their elevation in non-irradiated and irradiated rats. Nano-Se possess a potential anti-inflammatory activity on inflammation induced in irradiated rats.
Trigonelline attenuates hepatic complications and molecular alterations in high-fat high-fructose diet-induced insulin resistance in rats
Authors: Afifi Nehal A. , Ramadan Amer , Erian Emad Y. , Saleh Dalia O. , Sedik Ahmed A. , Badawi Manal , El Hotaby Walid
Published: October 2016

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of trigonelline (TRG) on the hepatic complications associated with high-fat high-fructose (HFHF) diet-induced insulin resistance (IR) in rats. IR was induced by giving a saturated fat diet and 10% fructose in drinking water to rats for 8 weeks. Insulin-resistant rats were orally treated with TRG (50 and 100 mg/kg), sitagliptin (SIT; 5 mg/kg), or a combination of TRG (50 mg/kg) and SIT (5 mg/kg) for 14 days. Liver homogenates were used for assessment of hepatic lipids, oxidative stress biomarkers, and inflammatory cytokines. Histopathological and DNA cytometry examinations were carried out for hepatic and pancreatic tissues. Hepatic tissues were examined using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy for assessment of any molecular changes. Results of the present study revealed that oral treatment of insulin-resistant rats with TRG or TRG in combination with SIT significantly decreased homeostatic model assessment of IR, hepatic lipids, oxidative stress biomarkers, and the inflammatory cytokines. TRG or TRG in combination with SIT ameliorated the histopathological, DNA cytometry, and molecular alterations induced by a HFHF diet. Finally, it can be concluded that TRG has beneficial effects on the hepatic complications associated with IR due to its hypoglycemic effect and antioxidant potential.
Constraints on the composite photon theory
Authors: Low Lerh Feng
Published: October 2016

In a 2015 paper [W. A. Perkins, Mod. Phys. Lett. A 30, 1550157 (2015)], Perkins argued that based on the composite photon theory (CPT), antiphotons should not interact with ordinary matter. This implies that antiphotons are undetectable by detectors made of ordinary matter, and hence that antimatter galaxies are a possible candidate for dark matter. The purpose of this short letter is to argue that this conclusion is highly unlikely, because of cosmological constraints on the density of radiation, the distribution of dark matter and C-symmetry.
Adopted low background techniques and analysis of radioactive trace impurities
Authors: Bernabei R. , Belli P. , Incicchitti A. , Dai C. J.
Published: October 2016

The application of very low background techniques has a great importance in deep underground experiments devoted to the investigation of the Dark Matter (DM) particles and of other rare processes. In this paper, some related arguments are addressed mainly considering their crucial role in case of inorganic crystal scintillators developed for direct DM investigation and, in particular, in the realization of DAMA/LIBRA apparatus.
Dispersion engineering of a As2Se3-based strip/slot hybrid waveguide for mid-infrared broadband wavelength conversion
Authors: Hui Zhanqiang , Zhang Lingxuan , Wang Leiran , Zhang Wenfu
Published: October 2016

An arsenic tri-selenide-based strip/slot hybrid waveguide with a single horizontal silica slot is proposed to achieve an extremely low and flat dispersion with three zero dispersion wavelengths. By adjusting the geometrical structural parameters of the hybrid waveguide, dispersion tailoring is fully obtained. The flat group velocity dispersion varying between ±[Formula: see text]0.08 ps2/(m) is obtained over a 1253 nm bandwidth. The parameters of effective area, nonlinear coefficient, and third-order dispersion are all investigated. Moreover, a compact on-chip all-optical wavelength converter is designed based on degenerate four-wave mixing in this waveguide. The dependencies of conversion efficiency and conversion bandwidth on the pump wavelength are discussed. The impact of pump power and signal power on the conversion efficiency is also investigated. The results show that a maximal conversion efficiency of −0.46 dB, and a 3-dB conversion bandwidth of 830 nm in the mid-infrared is achieved.
SEISMIC ACTIVITY SEEN THROUGH EVOLUTION OF THE HURST EXPONENT MODEL IN 3D
Authors: PATIÑO ORTIZ J. , CARREÑO AGUILERA R. , BALANKIN A. S. , PATIÑO ORTIZ M. , TOVAR RODRIGUEZ J. C. , ACEVEDO MOSQUEDA M. A. , MARTINEZ CRUZ M. A. , YU WEN
Published: October 2016

The dynamics seismic activity occurred in the Cocos Plate—Mexico is analyzed through the evolution of Hurst exponent and 3D fractal dimension, under the mathematical fractal structure based on seismic activity time series, taking into account the magnitude ([Formula: see text]) as the main parameter to be estimated. The seismic activity time series and, annual intervals are considered first for finding the Hurst exponent of each year since 1988 (the year in which the database is consistent) until 2012, and then the following years are accumulated describing the cumulative Hurst exponent. The seismic activity description is based on Cocos Plate data information; during a period conform from 1 January 1988 to 31 December 2012. Analyses were performed following methods, mainly considering that the Hurst exponent analysis provides the ability to find the seismicity behavior time–space, described by parameters obtained under the fractal dimension and complex systems.
Techniques and Devices Used in Palpation Simulation with Haptic Feedback
Authors: Ribeiro Mateus L. , Lederman Henrique Manoel , Elias Simone , Nunes FÁtima L. S.
Published: October 2016

Palpation exam is a procedure in which a healthcare professional presses a specific region of a patient’s body with the fingers in order to detect the presence of features and abnormalities under the skin. A simulator that aids the training of this procedure may contribute to the learning of the technique and the improvement of its implementation in real patients. This article presents a systematic review conducted in order to assess the state of the art of the simulation of the palpation procedure, providing a categorization of techniques and approaches used in systems with haptic feedback. The results indicate that there are existing gaps concerning the accessibility of the haptic devices, innovative methods to calculate force feedback and deformation caused by haptic devices, and user experience improvement, since most of the studies consider only one point of contact, which can limit the simulation realism.
A Survey of Repair Analysis Algorithms for Memories
Authors: Cho Keewon , Kang Wooheon , Cho Hyungjun , Lee Changwook , Kang Sungho
Published: October 2016

Current rapid advancements in deep submicron technologies have enabled the implementation of very large memory devices and embedded memories. However, the memory growth increases the number of defects, reducing the yield and reliability of such devices. Faulty cells are commonly repaired by using redundant cells, which are embedded in memory arrays by adding spare rows and columns. The repair process requires an efficient redundancy analysis (RA) algorithm. Spare architectures for the repair of faulty memory include one-dimensional (1D) spare architectures, two-dimensional (2D) spare architectures, and configurable spare architectures. Of these types, 2D spare architectures, which prepare extra rows and columns for repair, are popular because of their better repairing efficiency than 1D spare architectures and easier implementation than configurable spare architectures. However, because the complexity of the RA is NP-complete, the RA algorithm should consider various factors in order to determine a repair solution. The performance depends on three factors: analysis time, repair rate, and area overhead. In this article, we survey RA algorithms for memory devices as well as built-in repair algorithms for improving these performance factors. Built-in redundancy analysis techniques for emergent three-dimensional integrated circuits are also discussed. Based on this analysis, we then discuss future research challenges for faulty-memory repair studies.
Enhanced User Context-Aware Reputation Measurement of Multimedia Service
Authors: Wang Shangguang , Zhou Ao , Lei Wei , Yu Zhiwen , Hsu Ching-Hsien , Yang Fangchun
Published: October 2016

Reputation plays an important role for users in choosing or paying for multimedia applications or services. Some efficient multimedia reputation-measurement approaches have been proposed to achieve accurate reputation measurement based on feedback ratings that users give to a multimedia service after invoking. However, the implementation of these approaches suffers from the problems of wide abuse and low utilization of user context. In this article, we study the relationship between user context and feedback ratings according to which one user often gives different feedback ratings to the same multimedia service in different user contexts. We further propose an enhanced user context-aware reputation-measurement approach for multimedia services that is accurate in two senses: (1) Each multimedia service has three reputation values with three different user context levels when its feedback ratings are sufficient and (2) the reputation of a multimedia service with different user context levels is found using user context sensitivity and user similarity when its feedback ratings are limited or not available. Experimental results based on a real-world dataset show that our approach outperforms other approaches in terms of accuracy.
Mapping Virtual Machines onto Physical Machines in Cloud Computing
Authors: Pietri Ilia , Sakellariou Rizos
Published: October 2016

Cloud computing enables users to provision resources on demand and execute applications in a way that meets their requirements by choosing virtual resources that fit their application resource needs. Then, it becomes the task of cloud resource providers to accommodate these virtual resources onto physical resources. This problem is a fundamental challenge in cloud computing as resource providers need to map virtual resources onto physical resources in a way that takes into account the providers’ optimization objectives. This article surveys the relevant body of literature that deals with this mapping problem and how it can be addressed in different scenarios and through different objectives and optimization techniques. The evaluation aspects of different solutions are also considered. The article aims at both identifying and classifying research done in the area adopting a categorization that can enhance understanding of the problem.