bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of PKR impairs angiogenesis through a VEGF pathway
Authors: Zhu Zhaowei , Zhong Hua , Zhou Qin , Hu Xinqun , Chen Dandan , Wang Jiemei , Wu Jinze , Cai Jingjing , Zhou Shenghua , Chen Alex F.
Published: January 2015

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common clinical problem, and its pathophysiological mechanisms are incompletely understood. Double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase (PKR) is a ubiquitously expressed serine/threonine protein kinase. Although PKR has been reported in antivirus and the immune system, the role of PKR in vascular function, especially in angiogenesis, is still unclear. PKR−/−mice were used in our experiments. Blood flow recovery was significantly delayed in PKR−/−vs. WT mice (Laser Doppler detection, n = 9, P < 0.01), accompanied by 34% reduced CD31-positive stain in ischemic muscle 28 days after procedure (immunohistochemistry, n = 9, P < 0.05). PKR expression decreased in the first 12 h and increased to peak at 24 h in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in response to hypoxia (Western blot analyses, n = 3, P < 0.05). Accordingly, phospho-PKR expression increased in HUVECs 24 h after treatment with hypoxia (Western blot analyses, n = 3, P < 0.05). Inhibition of PKR (siRNA transfection) reduced microtubule formation (Matrigel tube formation, n = 3, vs. control siRNA, P < 0.05) and migration (wound healing, n = 3, vs. control siRNA, P < 0.05) by 33 and 59%, respectively. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in ischemic muscle from PKR−/−mice was significantly decreased by 54% 1 day after procedure ( n = 3, P < 0.05, vs. WT) and by 63% 7 days after procedure ( n = 3, P < 0.01, vs. WT), respectively. At the same time, VEGF expression in HUVECs decreased by 21% ( n = 3, P < 0.05, PKR siRNA vs. control siRNA). These findings demonstrate that PKR mediates angiogenesis through a VEGF pathway, which may form the basis for future intervention of PAD.
Hemorrhagic hypotension-induced hypersensitivity of vagal pulmonary C-fibers to chemical stimulation and lung inflation in anesthetized rats
Authors: Lin Ruei-Lung , Lin Yu-Jung , Xu Fadi , Lee Lu-Yuan
Published: January 2015

This study was carried out to investigate whether hemorrhagic hypotension (HH) altered the sensitivity of vagal pulmonary C-fibers. The fiber activity (FA) of single vagal pulmonary C-fiber was continuously recorded in anesthetized rats before, during, and after HH was induced by bleeding from the femoral arterial catheter into a blood reservoir and lowering the mean systemic arterial pressure (MSAP) to ∼40 mmHg for 20 min. Our results showed the following. First, after MSAP reached a steady state of HH, the peak FA response to intravenous injection of capsaicin was elevated by approximately fivefold. The enhanced C-fiber sensitivity continued to increase during HH and sustained even after MSAP returned to baseline during the recovery, but slowly returned to control ∼20 min later. Second, responses of FA to intravenous injections of other chemical stimulants of pulmonary C-fibers (phenylbiguanide, lactic acid, and adenosine) and a constant-pressure lung hyperinflation were all significantly potentiated by HH. Third, infusion of sodium bicarbonate alleviated the systemic acidosis during HH, and it also attenuated, but did not completely prevent, the HH-induced C-fiber hypersensitivity. In conclusion, the pulmonary C-fiber sensitivity was elevated during HH, probably caused by the endogenous release of chemical substances (e.g., lactic acid) that were produced by tissue ischemia during HH. This enhanced C-fiber sensitivity may heighten the pulmonary protective reflexes mediated through these afferents (e.g., cough, J reflex) during hemorrhage when the body is more susceptible to other hazardous insults and pathophysiological stresses.
Flow regulation of endothelin-1 production in the inner medullary collecting duct
Authors: Pandit Meghana M. , Inscho Edward W. , Zhang Shali , Seki Tsugio , Rohatgi Rajeev , Gusella Luca , Kishore Bellamkonda , Kohan Donald E.
Published: January 2015

Collecting duct-derived endothelin (ET)-1 is an autocrine inhibitor of Na+ and water reabsorption; its deficiency causes hypertension and water retention. Extracellular fluid volume expansion increases collecting duct ET-1, thereby promoting natriuresis and diuresis; however, how this coupling between volume expansion and collecting duct ET-1 occurs is incompletely understood. One possibility is that volume expansion increases tubular fluid flow. To investigate this, cultured IMCD3 cells were subjected to static or flow conditions. Exposure to a shear stress of 2 dyn/cm2 for 2 h increased ET-1 mRNA content by ∼2.3-fold. Absence of perfusate Ca2+, chelation of intracellular Ca2+, or inhibition of Ca2+ signaling (calmodulin, Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase, calcineurin, PKC, or phospholipase C) prevented the flow response. Evaluation of possible flow-activated Ca2+ entry pathways revealed no role for transient receptor potential (TRP)C3, TRPC6, and TRPV4; however, cells with TRPP2 (polycystin-2) knockdown had no ET-1 flow response. Flow increased intracellular Ca2+ was blunted in TRPP2 knockdown cells. Nonspecific blockade of P2 receptors, as well as specific inhibition of P2X7 and P2Y2 receptors, prevented the ET-1 flow response. The ET-1 flow response was not affected by inhibition of either epithelial Na+ channels or the mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchanger. Taken together, these findings provide evidence that in IMCD3 cells, flow, via polycystin-2 and P2 receptors, engages Ca2+-dependent signaling pathways that stimulate ET-1 synthesis.
Ret is critical for podocyte survival following glomerular injury in vivo
Authors: Hou Guoqing , Wu Victoria , Singh Gulmohar , Holzman Lawrence B. , Tsui Cynthia C.
Published: January 2015

Podocyte injury and loss directly cause proteinuria and the progression to glomerulosclerosis. Elucidation of the mechanisms of podocyte survival and recovery from injury is critical for designing strategies to prevent the progression of glomerular diseases. Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and its receptor tyrosine kinase, Ret, are upregulated in both nonimmune and immune-mediated in vitro and in vivo models of glomerular diseases. We investigated whether Ret, a known receptor tyrosine kinase critical for kidney morphogenesis and neuronal growth and development, is necessary for glomerular and podocyte development and survival in vivo. Since deletions of both GDNF and Ret result in embryonic lethality due to kidney agenesis, we examined the role of Ret in vivo by generating mice with a conditional deletion of Ret in podocytes ( Retflox/flox; Nphs2-Cre). In contrast to the lack of any developmental and maintenance deficits, Retflox/flox; Nphs2-Cre mice showed a significantly enhanced susceptibility to adriamycin nephropathy, a rodent model of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. Thus, these findings demonstrated that the Ret signaling pathway is important for podocyte survival and recovery from glomerular injury in vivo.
The gain of smooth muscle's contractile capacity induced by tone on in vivo airway responsiveness in mice
Authors: Lee-Gosselin Audrey , Gendron David , Blanchet Marie-Renée , Marsolais David , Bossé Ynuk
Published: January 2015

Airway hyperresponsiveness to a spasmogenic challenge such as methacholine, and an increased baseline tone measured by the reversibility of airway obstruction with a bronchodilator, are two common features of asthma. However, whether the increased tone influences the degree of airway responsiveness to a spasmogen is unclear. Herein, we hypothesized that increased tone augments airway responsiveness in vivo by increasing the contractile capacity of airway smooth muscle (ASM). Anesthetized, tracheotomized, paralyzed, and mechanically ventilated mice were either exposed (experimental group) or not (control group) to tone for 20 min, which was elicited by nebulizing serial small doses of methacholine. Respiratory system resistance was monitored during this period and the peak response to a large cumulative dose of methacholine was then measured at the end of 20 min to assess and compare the level of airway responsiveness between groups. To confirm direct ASM involvement, the contractile capacity of excised murine tracheas was measured with and without preexposure to tone elicited by either methacholine or a thromboxane A2mimetic (U46619). Distinct spasmogens were tested because the spasmogens liable for increased tone in asthma are likely to differ. The results indicate that preexposure to tone increases airway responsiveness in vivo by 126 ± 37% and increases the contractile capacity of excised tracheas ex vivo by 23 ± 4% for methacholine and 160 ± 63% for U46619. We conclude that an increased tone, regardless of whether it is elicited by a muscarinic agonist or a thromboxane A2mimetic, may contribute to airway hyperresponsiveness by increasing the contractile capacity of ASM.
Navigational path integration by cortical neurons: origins in higher-order direction selectivity
Authors: Page William K. , Sato Nobuya , Froehler Michael T. , Vaughn William , Duffy Charles J.
Published: January 2015

Navigation relies on the neural processing of sensory cues about observer self-movement and spatial location. Neurons in macaque dorsal medial superior temporal cortex (MSTd) respond to visual and vestibular self-movement cues, potentially contributing to navigation and orientation. We moved monkeys on circular paths around a room while recording the activity of MSTd neurons. MSTd neurons show a variety of sensitivities to the monkey's heading direction, circular path through the room, and place in the room. Changing visual cues alters the relative prevalence of those response properties. Disrupting the continuity of self-movement paths through the environment disrupts path selectivity in a manner linked to the time course of single neuron responses. We hypothesize that sensory cues interact with the spatial and temporal integrative properties of MSTd neurons to derive path selectivity for navigational path integration supporting spatial orientation.
Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrates compartmental muscle mechanisms of human vertical fusional vergence
Authors: Demer Joseph L. , Clark Robert A.
Published: January 2015

Vertical fusional vergence (VFV) normally compensates for slight vertical heterophorias. We employed magnetic resonance imaging to clarify extraocular muscle contributions to VFV induced by monocular two-prism diopter (1.15°) base-up prism in 14 normal adults. Fusion during prism viewing requires monocular infraduction. Scans were repeated without prism, and with prism shifted contralaterally. Contractility indicated by morphometric indexes was separately analyzed in medial and lateral vertical rectus and superior oblique (SO) putative compartments, and superior and inferior horizontal rectus extraocular muscle putative compartments, but in the whole inferior oblique (IO). Images confirmed appropriate VFV that was implemented by the inferior rectus (IR) medial compartment contracting ipsilateral and relaxing contralateral to prism. There was no significant contractility in the IR lateral compartment. The superior but not inferior lateral rectus (LR) compartment contracted significantly in the prism viewing eye, but not contralateral to prism. The IO contracted ipsilateral but not contralateral to the prism. In the infraducting eye, the SO medial compartment relaxed significantly, while the lateral compartment was unchanged; contralateral to prism, the SO lateral compartment contracted, while the medial compartment was unchanged. There was no contractility in the superior or medial rectus muscles in either eye. There was no globe retraction. We conclude that the vertical component of VFV is primarily implemented by IR medial compartment contraction. Since appropriate vertical rotation is not directly implemented, or is opposed, by associated differential LR and SO compartmental activity, and IO contraction, these actions probably implement a torsional component of VFV.
HFE Genotyping in Patients with Elevated Serum Iron Indices and Liver Diseases
Authors: Evangelista Andreia Silva , Nakhle Maria Cristina , de Araújo Thiago Ferreira , Abrantes-Lemos Clarice Pires , Deguti Marta Mitiko , Carrilho Flair José , Cançado Eduardo Luiz Rachid
Published: January 2015

Iron abnormalities in chronic liver disease may be the result of genetic diseases or secondary factors. The present study aimed to identify subjects with HFE-HH in order to describe the frequency of clinical manifestations, identify risk factors for iron elevation, and compare the iron profile of HFE-HH to other genotypes in liver disease patients. A total of 108 individuals with hepatic disease, transferrin saturation (TS) > 45%, and serum ferritin (SF) > 350 ng/mL were tested for HFE mutations. Two groups were characterized: C282Y/C282Y or C282Y/H63D genotypes (n=16) were the HFE hereditary hemochromatosis (HFE-HH) group; and C282Y and H63D single heterozygotes, the H63D/H63D genotype, and wild-type were considered group 2 (n=92). Nonalcoholic liver disease, alcoholism, and chronic hepatitis C were detected more frequently in group 2, whereas arthropathy, hepatocarcinoma, diabetes, and osteoporosis rates were significantly higher in the HFE-HH group. TS > 82%, SF > 2685 ng/mL, and serum iron > 178 μg/dL were the cutoffs for diagnosis of HFE-HH in patients with liver disease. Thus, in non-Caucasian populations with chronic liver disease, HFE-HH diagnosis is more predictable in those with iron levels higher than those proposed in current guidelines for the general population.
The Effect ofCYP, GST,andSULTPolymorphisms and Their Interaction with Smoking on the Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Boccia Stefania , Miele Luca , Panic Nikola , Turati Federica , Arzani Dario , Cefalo Consuelo , Amore Rosarita , Bulajic Milutin , Pompili Maurizio , Rapaccini Gianlodovico , Gasbarrini Antonio , La Vecchia Carlo , Grieco Antonio
Published: January 2015

Aim. The aim of our study was to assess whether selected single nucleotide polymorphisms ofCYP1A1and2E1,GSTM1,GSTT1, andSULT1A1influence susceptibility towards HCC, considering their interaction with cigarette smoking.Methods. We recruited HCC cases and controls among patients admitted to the hospital “Agostino Gemelli,” from January 2005 until July 2010. Odds ratios (OR) of HCC were derived from unconditional multiple logistic regression. Gene-gene and gene-smoking interaction were quantified by computing the attributable proportion (AP) due to biological interaction.Results. The presence of anyCYP2E1*5Bvariant allele (OR: 0.23; 95% CI: 0.06-0.71) andCYP2E1*6variant allele (OR: 0.08; 95% CI: 0.01–0.33) was inversely related to HCC. There was a borderline increased risk among carriers of combinedCYP1A1*2AandSULT1A1variant alleles (OR: 1.67; 95% CI: 0.97–3.24). A significant biological interaction was observed betweenGSTT1and smoking (AP = 0.48; 95% CI: 0.001–0.815), with an OR of 3.13 (95% CI: 1.69–5.82), and borderline significant interaction was observed forSULT1A1and smoking (AP = 0.36; 95% CI: −0.021–0.747), with an OR of 3.05 (95% CI: 1.73–5.40).Conclusion.CYP2E1*5BandCYP2E1*6polymorphisms have a favourable effect on the development of HCC, while polymorphisms ofGSTT1andSULT1A1might play role in increasing the susceptibility among smokers.
Ex Vitro Seedling Development from In Vitro Rhizome-Like Bodies in Eulophia promensis Lindl.: A New Technique for Orchid Propagation
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Musharof
Published: January 2015

This communication describes in vitro seed germination, embryo differentiation, and ex vitro seedling production from in vitro rhizome-like bodies of a terrestrial orchid, Eulophia promensis Lindl. Effects of two nutrient media, namely, Murashige and Skoog (MS) and Phytotechnology Orchid Seed Sowing medium (P723) supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP; 0.5–1.0 mgL−1) and/or α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA; 0.5–1.0 mgL−1) and activated charcoal (2.0 gL−1), were studied on seed germination and subsequent development of embryos. Maximum seed germination (100%) was recorded in P723 medium fortified with 1.0 mgL−1 BAP + 2.0 gL−1 activated charcoal. The different developmental stages of protocorm morphogenesis were traced out. In subsequent subcultures, the protocorms proliferated profusely and developed rhizome-like bodies (RLBs) with numerous hair-like structures. These RLBs were transferred to pots containing potting mixture composed of humus + coir dust + saw dust (1 : 1 : 1) where ∼80% of RLBs survived and produced 1–3 seedlings per RLB. This is the first time report for in vitro germination of seeds and ex vitro seedling production from in vitro raised RLBs in Eulophia promensis. This is a time saving and cost effective protocol that could be extended to other economically important, rare, and endangered orchids for propagation and conservation.
Loop Quantization of a 3D AbelianBFModel withσ-Model Matter
Authors: Mendonça Diego C. M. , Piguet Olivier
Published: January 2015

The main goal of this work is to explore the symmetries and develop the dynamics associated with a 3D AbelianBFmodel coupled to scalar fields submitted to a sigma model like constraint, at the classical and quantum levels. Background independence, on which the model is founded, strongly constrains its nature. We adapt to the present model the techniques of Loop Quantum Gravity in order to construct its physical Hilbert space and its observables.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness ofPiper cubebaExtract in the Amelioration of CCl4-Induced Liver Injuries and Oxidative Damage in the Rodent Model
Authors: AlSaid Mansour , Mothana Ramzi , Raish Mohammad , Al-Sohaibani Mohammed , Al-Yahya Mohammed , Ahmad Ajaz , Al-Dosari Mohammed , Rafatullah Syed
Published: January 2015

Background. Liver diseases still represent a major health burden worldwide. Moreover, medicinal plants have gained popularity in the treatment of several diseases including liver. Thus, the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness ofPiper cubebafruits in the amelioration of CCl4-induced liver injuries and oxidative damage in the rodent model.Methods. Hepatoprotective activity was assessed using various biochemical parameters like SGOT, SGPT,γ-GGT, ALP, total bilirubin, LDH, and total protein. Meanwhile,in vivoantioxidant activities as LPO, NP-SH, and CAT were measured in rat liver as well as mRNA expression of cytokines such as TNFα, IL-6, and IL-10 and stress related genes iNOS and HO-1 were determined by RT-PCR. The extent of liver damage was also analyzed through histopathological observations.Results. Treatment with PCEE significantly and dose dependently prevented drug induced increase in serum levels of hepatic enzymes. Furthermore, PCEE significantly reduced the lipid peroxidation in the liver tissue and restored activities of defense antioxidant enzymes NP-SH and CAT towards normal levels. The administration of PCEE significantly downregulated the CCl4-induced proinflammatory cytokines TNFαand IL-6 mRNA expression in dose dependent manner, while it upregulated the IL-10 and induced hepatoprotective effect by downregulating mRNA expression of iNOS and HO-1 gene.
Fault Diagnosis with Evolving Fuzzy Classifier Based on Clustering Algorithm and Drift Detection
Authors: Inacio Maurilio , Lemos Andre , Caminhas Walmir
Published: January 2015

The emergence of complex machinery and equipment in several areas demands efficient fault diagnosis methods. Several fault diagnosis methods based on different theories and approaches have been proposed in the literature. According to the concept of intelligent maintenance, the application of intelligent systems to accomplish fault diagnosis from process historical data has been shown to be a promising approach. In problems involving complex nonstationary dynamic systems, an adaptive fault diagnosis system is required to cope with changes in the monitored process. In order to address fault diagnosis in this scenario, use of the so-called “evolving intelligent systems” is suggested. This paper proposes the application of an evolving fuzzy classifier for fault diagnosis based on a new approach that combines a recursive clustering algorithm and a drift detection method. In this approach, the clustering update depends not only on a similarity measure, but also on the monitoring changes in the input data flow. A merging cluster mechanism was incorporated into the algorithm to enable the removal of redundant clusters. Multivariate Gaussian memberships functions are employed in the fuzzy rules to avoid information loss if there is interaction between variables. The novel approach provides greater robustness to outliers and noise present in data from process sensors. The classifier is evaluated in fault diagnosis of a DC drive system. In the experiments, a DC drive system fault simulator was used to simulate normal operation and several faulty conditions. Outliers and noise were added to the simulated data to evaluate the robustness of the fault diagnosis model.
Balance Dysfunction in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Rinalduzzi Steno , Trompetto Carlo , Marinelli Lucio , Alibardi Alessia , Missori Paolo , Fattapposta Francesco , Pierelli Francesco , Currà Antonio
Published: January 2015

Stability and mobility in functional motor activities depend on a precise regulation of phasic and tonic muscular activity that is carried out automatically, without conscious awareness. The sensorimotor control of posture involves a complex integration of multisensory inputs that results in a final motor adjustment process. All or some of the components of this system may be dysfunctional in Parkinsonian patients, rendering postural instability one of the most disabling features of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Balance control is critical for moving safely in and adapting to the environment. PD induces a multilevel impairment of this function, therefore worsening the patients’ physical and psychosocial disability. In this review, we describe the complex ways in which PD impairs posture and balance, collecting and reviewing the available experimental evidence.
5-HT2B Receptor Antagonists Inhibit Fibrosis and Protect from RV Heart Failure
Authors: Janssen Wiebke , Schymura Yves , Novoyatleva Tatyana , Kojonazarov Baktybek , Boehm Mario , Wietelmann Astrid , Luitel Himal , Murmann Kirsten , Krompiec Damian Richard , Tretyn Aleksandra , Pullamsetti Soni Savai , Weissmann Norbert , Seeger Werner , Ghofrani Hossein Ardeschir , Schermuly Ralph Theo
Published: January 2015

Objective. The serotonin (5-HT) pathway was shown to play a role in pulmonary hypertension (PH), but its functions in right ventricular failure (RVF) remain poorly understood. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of Terguride (5-HT2A and 2B receptor antagonist) or SB204741 (5-HT2B receptor antagonist) on right heart function and structure upon pulmonary artery banding (PAB) in mice.Methods. Seven days after PAB, mice were treated for 14 days with Terguride (0.2 mg/kg bid) or SB204741 (5 mg/kg day). Right heart function and remodeling were assessed by right heart catheterization, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and histomorphometric methods. Total secreted collagen content was determined in mouse cardiac fibroblasts isolated from RV tissues.Results. Chronic treatment with Terguride or SB204741 reduced right ventricular fibrosis and showed improved heart function in mice after PAB. Moreover, 5-HT2B receptor antagonists diminished TGF-beta1 induced collagen synthesis of RV cardiac fibroblastsin vitro.Conclusion. 5-HT2B receptor antagonists reduce collagen deposition, thereby inhibiting right ventricular fibrosis. Chronic treatment prevented the development and progression of pressure overload-induced RVF in mice. Thus, 5-HT2B receptor antagonists represent a valuable novel therapeutic approach for RVF.
Adaptive Iterative Learning Control for Complex Dynamical Networks
Authors: Hao Xiuqing , Li Junmin
Published: January 2015

A new adaptive iterative learning control scheme is proposed for complex dynamical networks with repetitive operation over a fixed time interval. By designing difference type updating laws for unknown time-varying parameters and coupling strength, the state of each node in complex dynamical networks can track the reference signal. By constructing a composite energy function, a sufficient condition of the convergence of tracking error sequence is achieved in the iteration domain. Finally, a numerical example is given to show the effectiveness of the designed method.
The Effect of Primary Cancer Cell Culture Models on the Results of Drug Chemosensitivity Assays: The Application of Perfusion Microbioreactor System as Cell Culture Vessel
Authors: Hsieh Chia-Hsun , Chen Yi-Dao , Huang Shiang-Fu , Wang Hung-Ming , Wu Min-Hsien
Published: January 2015

To precisely and faithfully perform cell-based drug chemosensitivity assays, a well-defined and biologically relevant culture condition is required. For the former, a perfusion microbioreactor system capable of providing a stable culture condition was adopted. For the latter, however, little is known about the impact of culture models on the physiology and chemosensitivity assay results of primary oral cavity cancer cells. To address the issues, experiments were performed. Results showed that minor environmental pH change could significantly affect the metabolic activity of cells, demonstrating the importance of stable culture condition for such assays. Moreover, the culture models could also significantly influence the metabolic activity and proliferation of cells. Furthermore, the choice of culture models might lead to different outcomes of chemosensitivity assays. Compared with the similar test based on tumor-level assays, the spheroid model could overestimate the drug resistance of cells to cisplatin, whereas the 2D and 3D culture models might overestimate the chemosensitivity of cells to such anticancer drug. In this study, the 3D culture models with same cell density as that in tumor samples showed comparable chemosensitivity assay results as the tumor-level assays. Overall, this study has provided some fundamental information for establishing a precise and faithful drug chemosensitivity assay.
Fatal Cytomegalovirus Disease after Combination Therapy with Corticosteroids and Rituximab for Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Authors: Hilal Talal
Published: January 2015

The association of cytomegalovirus (CMV) with autoimmune disease is poorly understood with suggested causality and reported viral reactivation coinciding with active inflammation. We report a case of a patient who presented with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage and acute renal failure from rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis ultimately diagnosed with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA). She was acutely managed with plasmapheresis to reduce antibody-mediated end-organ damage, hemodialysis for worsening hyperkalemia and acidosis, and high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone. She was transitioned to oral prednisone and started on weekly rituximab with resultant remission induction over a three-week period at which point she developed reactivation of CMV causing severe fatal lung disease and viremia. The case highlights the multiple factors associated with CMV reactivation in cases of severe systemic inflammatory states and the need for further research to help establish practice guidelines regarding antimicrobial prophylaxis in patients with autoimmune diseases on prolonged courses of corticosteroids and biologic agents.
Modeling of RFID-Enabled Real-Time Manufacturing Execution System in Mixed-Model Assembly Lines
Authors: Yang Zhixin , Xu Wei , Wong Pak-Kin , Wang Xianbo
Published: January 2015

To quickly respond to the diverse product demands, mixed-model assembly lines are well adopted in discrete manufacturing industries. Besides the complexity in material distribution, mixed-model assembly involves a variety of components, different process plans and fast production changes, which greatly increase the difficulty for agile production management. Aiming at breaking through the bottlenecks in existing production management, a novel RFID-enabled manufacturing execution system (MES), which is featured with real-time and wireless information interaction capability, is proposed to identify various manufacturing objects including WIPs, tools, and operators, etc., and to trace their movements throughout the production processes. However, being subject to the constraints in terms of safety stock, machine assignment, setup, and scheduling requirements, the optimization of RFID-enabled MES model for production planning and scheduling issues is a NP-hard problem. A new heuristical generalized Lagrangian decomposition approach has been proposed for model optimization, which decomposes the model into three subproblems: computation of optimal configuration of RFID senor networks, optimization of production planning subjected to machine setup cost and safety stock constraints, and optimization of scheduling for minimized overtime. RFID signal processing methods that could solve unreliable, redundant, and missing tag events are also described in detail. The model validity is discussed through algorithm analysis and verified through numerical simulation. The proposed design scheme has important reference value for the applications of RFID in multiple manufacturing fields, and also lays a vital research foundation to leverage digital and networked manufacturing system towards intelligence.
Prophylactic Antiarrhythmic Effect of Anesthetics at Subanesthetic Concentration on Epinephrine-Induced Arrhythmias in Rats after Brain Death
Authors: Miyata Yuka , Iwasaki Mitsuo , Yamanaka Hiroo , Sato Masanori , Kamibayashi Takahiko , Fujino Yuji , Hayashi Yukio
Published: January 2015

The present study using brain death model of rats was designed to examine whether prophylactic administration of volatile anesthetics and propofol prevent the epinephrine-induced arrhythmias. A Fogarty catheter was placed intracranially for induction of brain death. After brain death, the rats were randomly assigned to five groups: the control group (no anesthetics), the sevoflurane group (0.8%), the isoflurane group (0.5%), the halothane group (0.3%), and the propofol group (195 μg·kg−1·min−1). These anesthetics were about 30% ofED50of each anesthetic. The arrhythmogenic dose of epinephrine was determined in each anesthetic group. In addition, we examined left ventricular levels of connexin 43 phosphorylation 30 min after administration of each anesthetic with Western blot analysis. The arrhythmogenic dose of epinephrine in the sevoflurane group was significantly higher than that in the control group, while the arrhythmogenic dose of epinephrine in any other anesthetic group was not different. On the other hand, the ratio of phosphorylated-connexin 43/total connexin 43 was also similar among the study groups. Thus, prophylactic administration of subanesthetic dose of sevoflurane is effective in preventing epinephrine-induced arrhythmias after brain death, but phosphorylation of connexin is not involved in the antiarrhythmic property of sevoflurane.
Identification and Characterization of a Serious Multidrug ResistantStenotrophomonas maltophiliaStrain in China
Authors: Zhao Yan , Niu Wenkai , Sun Yanxia , Hao Huaijie , Yu Dong , Xu Guangyang , Shang Xueyi , Tang Xueping , Lu Sijing , Yue Junjie , Li Yan
Published: January 2015

AnS. maltophiliastrain named WJ66 was isolated from a patient; WJ66 showed resistance to more antibiotics than the otherS. maltophiliastrains. This bacteraemia is resistant to sulphonamides, or fluoroquinolones, while the representative strain ofS. maltophilia, K279a, is sensitive to both. To explore drug resistance determinants of this strain, the draft genome sequence of WJ66 was determined and compared to otherS. maltophiliasequences. Genome sequencing and genome-wide evolutionary analysis revealed that WJ66 was highly homologous with the strain K279a, but strain WJ66 contained additional antibiotic resistance genes. Further analysis confirmed that strain WJ66 contained an amino acid substitution (Q83L) in fluoroquinolone target GyrA and carried a class 1 integron, with anaadA2gene in the resistance gene cassette. Homology analysis from the pathogen-host interaction database showed that strain WJ66 lacks raxST and raxA, which is consistent with K279a. Comparative genomic analyses revealed that subtle nucleotide differences contribute to various significant phenotypes in close genetic relationship strains.
Five-Year Assessment of Time of Sputum Smears Conversion and Outcome and Risk Factors of Tuberculosis Patients in Central Iran
Authors: Behnaz Fatemah , Mohammadzadeh Mahmoud , Mohammadzade Golnaz
Published: January 2015

Objective. To evaluate risk factors which influence sputum smear conversion, outcome, and trends of conversion of sputum smear during 5 years and compare outcomes in patients with different regimens.Methods. In a retrospective cohort study, all patients with sputum smear positive tuberculosis were evaluated for comorbidities and demographic, microbiological, and therapeutic data and outcome. Smear examinations were performed at the beginning, at 2 months for CAT I, at 3 months for CAT II, at the end of second month of maintenance phase, and at the end of treatment.Results. This study enrolled 211 sputum smear positive patients, but 189 patients who completed the intensive phase of treatment were evaluated. Sputum smear of 158 patients converted at the end of intensive phase (83.6). Univariate analysis indicated that the risk of a persistent positive smear at the end of intensive phase was greater in diabetic patients ((odds 4.038, 95% CI 1.123–14.516)P=0.033), and also a 3+bacillary load had risk of 2.933-fold ((95% CI 1.278–6.732)P=0.011). Overall rate of unfavorable outcome was 20.9%. Factors associated with unfavorable outcome were age (Pvalue 0.000), male gender (Pvalue 0.027), diabetes (Pvalue 0.000), and delayed conversion of sputum at the end of intensive phase (Pvalue 0.000). Outcome for different regimens was not different significantly. Two specimens were isoniazid resistant.Conclusions. We suggest supervised treatment and care for diabetic patients and those with higher bacillary load. Paying attention to early diagnosis of tuberculosis in the elderly to reduce poor outcome and further measures to prevent transfer-out could improve the success rate.
Follow-Up in Head and Neck Cancer: A Management Dilemma
Authors: De Felice Francesca , Musio Daniela , Tombolini Vincenzo
Published: January 2015

Follow-up program in squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck district is crucial to detect locoregional recurrence and second primary tumors and to manage treatment toxicities. The choice of the appropriate frequency of visits and imaging modality can be troublesome. Details of timing surveillance and type of diagnostic procedure are still not well defined. This review highlights the problem from a clinician’s point of view.
Intradural Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Lumbar Spine: A Distinctive Case Report
Authors: Basaran Recep , Kaksi Mustafa , Onoz Mustafa , Balkuv Ece , Sav Aydin
Published: January 2015

Background. Solitary fibrous tumors are ubiquitous mesenchymal neoplasms of putative fibroblastic origin. They were originally described in the pleura but subsequently have been reported in many extraserosal sites. Solitary fibrous tumors may also occur in the meninges, central nervous system parenchyma, and spinal cord.Case. A 67-year-old male patient with progressive lower extremity weakness, urinary urgency, and sexual dysfunction has been admitted to our hospital. On his lumbar MRI, we detected an intradural lesion posterior to the L3 vertebral corpus. We resected the lesion by L3 total laminectomy. Immunohistological findings revealed strong and diffuse immunopositivity with vimentin, CD34, and bcl-2. Ki-67 proliferation index was 5–8%. We did not detect any recurrence 12 months after his operation.Conclusion. SFT is mostly seen in young and middle-aged patients and should be considered among differential diagnosis in cases suffering from pain, hypoesthesia, and urinary dysfunction. Gross total resection should be primary treatment. Tumors that have high Ki-67 labeling should be followed up for potential recurrences.
Blunted Activation of Rho-Kinase in Yak Pulmonary Circulation
Authors: Ishizaki Takeshi , Mizuno Shiro , Sakai Akio , Matsukawa Shigeru , Kojonazarov Baktybek , Zamirbek Baiserkeev , Umeda Yukihiro , Morikawa Miwa , Anzai Masaki , Ishizuka Tamotsu , Aldashev Almaz
Published: January 2015

Yaks have adapted to high altitude and they do not develop hypoxic pulmonary hypertension. Although we previously identified the important role of augmented nitric oxide synthase activity in the yak pulmonary circulatory system, evidence of the direct involvement of Rho-kinase as a basal vascular tone regulator is lacking. Four domesticated male pure-bred yaks and four bulls that were born and raised at an altitude of 3000 m in the Tien-Shan mountains were studied at an altitude of 3,100 m. Mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) was measured before and after fasudil (60 mg in 20 mL of saline) was intravenously administered using a Swan-Ganz catheter at a rate of 3.3 mL/min for 30 min. Fasudil decreased mPAP in bulls from67.8±14.9to32.3±5.3 mmHg (P<0.05) after 15 min and the level was maintained for 30 min, but it merely blunted mPAP in yaks from28.2±4.5to25.1±11.1and23.2±2.7 mmHg after 5 and 30 min, respectively. These findings comprise the first evidence of a modest role of Rho-kinase in the maintenance of pulmonary artery pressure in the yak.
Intradialytic Hypotension and Cardiac Remodeling: A Vicious Cycle
Authors: Chao Chia-Ter , Huang Jenq-Wen , Yen Chung-Jen
Published: January 2015

Hemodynamic instability during hemodialysis is a common but often underestimated issue in the nephrologist practice. Intradialytic hypotension, namely, a decrease of systolic or mean blood pressure to a certain level, prohibits the safe and smooth achievement of ultrafiltration and solute removal goal in chronic dialysis patients. Studies have elucidated the potential mechanisms involved in the development of Intradialytic hypotension, including excessive ultrafiltration and loss of compensatory mechanisms for blood pressure maintenance. Cardiac remodeling could also be one important piece of the puzzle. In this review, we intend to discuss the role of cardiac remodeling, including left ventricular hypertrophy, in the development of Intradialytic hypotension. In addition, we will also provide evidence that a bidirectional relationship might exist between Intradialytic hypotension and left ventricular hypertrophy in chronic dialysis patients. A more complete understanding of the complex interactions in between could assist the readers in formulating potential solutions for the reduction of both phenomena.
Bioactive Polyphenols from the Methanol Extract ofCnicus arvensis(L.) Roth Demonstrated Antinociceptive and Central Nervous System Depressant Activities in Mice
Authors: Rahman Mahmudur , Khatun Amina , Nesa Mst. Luthfun , Hossain Hemayet , Jahan Ismet Ara
Published: January 2015

Cnicus arvensisis used by many ethnic groups for inflammation, pain, and other ailments. In this study, reducing sugar, carbohydrate, alkaloid, steroid, tannin, flavonoid, and saponin groups were identified using standard chromogenic method. In high-performance liquid chromatography, vanillic acid and epicatechin were identified in the extract. Antinociceptive test by acetic acid induced writhing inhibition resulted 43.17 and 95.08% inhibition for 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight, comparing with standard diclofenac Na with 74.86% inhibition for 25 mg/kg body weight. In formalin induced paw licking test for antinociceptive activity, the extract inhibited 69.87 and 75.55% licking for 150 and 300 mg/kg body weight comparing with the inhibition (68.56%) of diclofenac Na for 10 mg/kg body weight at first phase. At late phase, the extract showed 73.12 and 87.46% licking comparing with licking inhibition (71.69%) by diclofenac Na at the same dose. In open field test for CNS depressant activity, the extract showed depression of locomotor activity for 150 and 300 mg/kg body weight comparing with diazepam for 10 mg/kg body weight. All results were statistically significant(P<0.01). The identified polyphenols are reputed for antinociceptive and CNS depressant activity. The present findings support the use of this plant in pain.
Coronary Arteries Segmentation Based on the 3D Discrete Wavelet Transform and 3D Neutrosophic Transform
Authors: Chen Shuo-Tsung , Wang Tzung-Dau , Lee Wen-Jeng , Huang Tsai-Wei , Hung Pei-Kai , Wei Cheng-Yu , Chen Chung-Ming , Kung Woon-Man
Published: January 2015

Purpose. Most applications in the field of medical image processing require precise estimation. To improve the accuracy of segmentation, this study aimed to propose a novel segmentation method for coronary arteries to allow for the automatic and accurate detection of coronary pathologies.Methods. The proposed segmentation method included 2 parts. First, 3D region growing was applied to give the initial segmentation of coronary arteries. Next, the location of vessel information, HHH subband coefficients of the 3D DWT, was detected by the proposed vessel-texture discrimination algorithm. Based on the initial segmentation, 3D DWT integrated with the 3D neutrosophic transformation could accurately detect the coronary arteries.Results. Each subbranch of the segmented coronary arteries was segmented correctly by the proposed method. The obtained results are compared with those ground truth values obtained from the commercial software from GE Healthcare and the level-set method proposed by Yang et al., 2007. Results indicate that the proposed method is better in terms of efficiency analyzed.Conclusion. Based on the initial segmentation of coronary arteries obtained from 3D region growing, one-level 3D DWT and 3D neutrosophic transformation can be applied to detect coronary pathologies accurately.
Formulation and In Vitro Evaluation of Bilayer Tablets of Nebivolol Hydrochloride and Nateglinide for the Treatment of Diabetes and Hypertension
Authors: Ryakala Harika , Dineshmohan S. , Ramesh Alluri , Gupta V. R. M.
Published: January 2015

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension are two common diseases that often coexist. The most common cause of death in the diabetic patient is heart disease. In the present investigation we combine Nebivolol and Nateglinide for better patient compliance. IR layer was formulated using various superdisintegrants like Crospovidone, Croscarmellose sodium, and sodium starch glycolate and SR layer was formulated using polymers and gums like HPMC E15, ethyl cellulose, Gaur gum, and Xanthan gum. The disintegration and dissolution study of both layers showed that inclusion of surfactant (sodium lauryl sulphate) to the tablet formulation (IR) and dissolution medium (SR) enhanced the release of drugs from both layers. Kinetic studies of optimized IR layer (NBL8) and SR layer (N9) showed good linearity with regression coefficient of 0.9714 (Higuchi model) and 0.9931 (zero order kinetics), respectively. The above results reveal that the optimized IR layer of Nebivolol (NBL8) and SR layer of Nateglinide (N9) might be suitable for the treatment of diabetes and hypertension by sequential release of the two drugs in a bilayer tablet. IR-immediate release, SR-sustain release, NBL8-Nebivolol 8, N9-Nateglinide 9.
Memory Impairment following Acute Tricyclic Antidepressants Overdose
Authors: Eizadi-Mood Nastaran , Akouchekian Shahla , Yaraghi Ahmad , Hakamian Mehrnazsadat , Soltani Rasool , Sabzghabaee Ali Mohammad
Published: January 2015

Background. Psychiatric consultation is necessary for all patients with intentional poisoning and its reliability depends on the proper function of patients’ memory performance. This study aimed to determine the possible memory impairment following acute TCAs’ poisoning.Materials and Methods. In this cross-sectional study, patients with acute TCAs poisoning were allocated to two groups of severe poisoning (with coma, seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, hypotension, and a wide QRS complex) and mild-to-moderate poisoning according to their clinical presentation at the time of hospital admission. All patients underwent memory performance test both immediately and 24 hours after their initial consciousness after admission, using Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS-IV).Results. During the study period, 67 TCA-poisoned patients (aged, 20–64 years) were evaluated, of which 67.2% were female. The mean memory scores of patients immediately and 24 hours after the initial consciousness were31.43±9.02and50.62±9.12, respectively (P<0.001). Twenty-four hours after the initial consciousness, memory score was statistically correlated with the amount of ingested drug and the intoxication severity.Conclusion. Following the recovery from somatic symptoms of acute TCA poisoning, patients may still suffer from memory impairment and it seems that this time is not suitable for performing a reliable psychiatric consultation.
Uniform Extendibility of the Bergman Kernel for Generalized Minimal Balls
Authors: Park Jong-Do
Published: January 2015

We consider a class of convex domains which contains non-Reinhardt domains with nonsmooth boundary. We show that the domains of this class satisfy the conditionQ.
Relation between Birth Weight, Growth, and Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Adulthood
Authors: Valente Maria Helena , Gomes Filumena Maria da Silva , Benseñor Isabela Judith Martins , Brentani Alexandra Valéria Maria , Escobar Ana Maria de Ulhôa , Grisi Sandra J. F. E.
Published: January 2015

Background and Objectives.Adverse conditions in the prenatal environment and in the first years of life are independently associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease. This paper aims to study the relation between birthweight, growth in the first year of life, and subclinical atherosclerosis in adults.Methods.88 adults aged between 20 and 31 were submitted to sociodemographic qualities, anthropometric data, blood pressure measurements, metabolic profile, and evaluation of subclinical atherosclerosis.Results.Birthweight <2,500 grams (g) was negatively correlated with (a) increased waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), according to regression coefficient (RC) equal to −0.323, 95% CI [−0.571, −0.075]P<0.05; (b) diastolic blood pressure (RC = −4.744, 95% CI [−9.017, −0.470]P<0.05); (c) low HDL-cholesterol (RC = −0.272, 95% CI [−0.516, −0.029]P<0.05); (d) frequency of intima-media thickness (IMT) of left carotid >75th percentile (RC = −0.242, 95% CI [−0.476, −0.008]P<0.05). Birthweight >3,500 g was associated with (a) BMI >25.0 kg/m2, (RC = 0.317, 95% CI [0.782, 0.557]P<0.05); (b) increased waist circumference (RC = 0.284, 95% CI [0.054, 0.513]P<0.05); (c) elevated WHR (RC = 0.280, 95% CI [0.054, 0.505]P<0.05); (d) minimum subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) (RC = 4.354, 95% CI [0.821, 7.888]P<0.05); (e) maximum SAT (RC = 7.095, 95% CI [0.608, 13.583]P<0.05); (f) right lobe of the liver side (RC = 6.896, 95% CI [1.946, 11.847]P<0.001); (g) frequency’s right lobe of the liver >75th percentile (RC = 0.361, 95% CI [0.169, 0.552]P<0.001). Weight gain in the first year of life was inversely correlated with (a) mean IMT of left carotid (RC = −0.046, 95% CI [−0.086, −0.006]P<0.05; (b) frequency IMT of left carotid >75th percentile (RC = −0.253, 95% CI [−0.487, −0.018]P<0.05); (c) mean IMT (RC = −0.038, 95% CI [0.073, −0.002]P<0.05); (d) the frequency of the mean IMT >75th percentile (RC = −0.241, 95% CI [−0.442, −0.041]P<0.05).Conclusions.Adults birthweight <2,500 g and >3,500 g and with insufficient weight gain in the first year of life have showed different metabolic phenotypes, but all of them were related to subclinical atherosclerosis.