bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relapsing fetal bilateral hydrothorax, an isolated expression of a vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation
Authors: Mannaerts Dominique , Muys Joke , Ramaekers Paul , Jacquemyn Yves
Published: January 2015

We report a case of bilateral fetal hydrothorax presenting at 20 weeks of pregnancy, spontaneously resolving at 22 weeks and severely relapsing at 28 weeks in a fetus with normal karyotype. The cause was a high-output heart failure caused by vein of Galen malformation.
Coenzyme Q10 supplementation downregulates the increase of monocytes expressing toll-like receptor 4 in response to 6-day intensive training in kendo athletes
Authors: Shimizu Kazuhiro , Kon Michihiro , Tanimura Yuko , Hanaoka Yukichi , Kimura Fuminori , Akama Takao , Kono Ichiro
Published: January 2015

This study examined changes in toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4)-expressing monocytes and lymphocyte subpopulations in response to continuous intensive exercise training in athletes, as well as the effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on these changes. Eighteen male elite kendo athletes in Japan were randomly assigned to a CoQ10-supplementation group (n = 9) or a placebo-supplementation group (n = 9) using a double-blind method. Subjects in the CoQ10 group took 300 mg CoQ10 per day for 20 days. Subjects in the placebo group took the same dosage of placebo. All subjects practiced kendo 5.5 h per day for 6 consecutive days during the study period. Blood samples were collected 2 weeks before training, on the first day (day 1), third day (day 3), and fifth day of training (day 5), and 1 week after the training period (post-training) to ascertain TLR-4+/CD14+monocyte and lymphocyte subpopulations (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD28+/CD4+, CD28+/CD8+, and CD56+/CD3−cells) using flow cytometry analysis. The group × time interaction for TLR-4+/CD14+cells did not reach significance (p = 0.08). Within the CoQ10 group, the absolute number of TLR-4+/CD14+cells was significantly higher only at day 5. The placebo group showed a significant increase in the absolute number of TLR-4+/CD14+cells at day 3, day 5, and post-training (p < 0.05). There was no significant group × time interaction for any lymphocyte subpopulation. CD3+, CD8+, and CD56+/CD3−cells were significantly reduced at day 3 in both groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, CoQ10 supplementation might downregulate the increase of TLR-4-expressing monocytes in response to continuous strenuous exercise training in kendo athletes.
Programmed cell death: genes involved in signaling, regulation, and execution in plants and animals
Authors: Rantong Gaolathe , Gunawardena Arunika H.L.A.N.
Published: January 2015

Programmed cell death (PCD) is a suicide mechanism adopted by multicellular organisms that is essential for development and resistance to different forms of stress. In plants, PCD is involved from embryogenesis to death of the whole plant. PCD is genetically regulated and the molecular pathways involved in different forms of this process in animals are relatively more understood than in plants. At the morphological level, apoptosis, one of the forms of PCD in animals, and plant PCD have some similarities such as cell shrinkage, shrinkage of the nucleus, and DNA fragmentation. Because morphological characteristics are a product of the genetically encoded PCD mechanism, it is of interest to figure out how much of the apoptotic pathway is shared with plant PCD in terms of the genes involved. Evidence of some level of similarities has been gathered in the last decade, supporting conservation during signaling, regulation, and execution of apoptosis and plant PCD. A continued search into the genomes of plants has provided insights about homologues of apoptosis genes present in plants, and functional analysis provides evidence about which genes are carrying out similar roles during apoptosis and plant PCD. This review is aimed at updating on the progress of plant PCD mechanism research and highlighting some of the similarities and differences between plant and mammalian PCD mechanisms, with special focus on the commonalities.
Genetic polymorphisms related to vitamin D and the therapeutic potential of vitamin D in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Niino Masaaki , Miyazaki Yusei
Published: January 2015

Vitamin D receptors (VDRs), which are responsible for most vitamin D functions, are expressed on various immune cells. Vitamin D is considered to be a potent immunomodulator. A variety of cells in the central nervous system (CNS) also express VDRs; thus, vitamin D may play a role in the regulation of neurodegeneration and repair processes within the CNS. Considered together with epidemiological studies, low vitamin D status is reckoned to be one of the risk factors for multiple sclerosis (MS). Further, vitamin D is considered to be a possible treatment for MS. However, previous clinical trials with small cohorts have not demonstrated significant effects of vitamin D in MS. Current ongoing clinical trials with large cohorts could provide answers with respect to the clinical effects of vitamin D in MS. However, genetic studies have suggested that genes associated with vitamin D, including VDRs, are susceptible genes for MS. Vitamin D needs to be considered from the perspective of the interaction between vitamin-D-related genetic factors and environmental factors affecting vitamin D levels.
A composite model of quarks and bosons
Authors: Moffat J. W.
Published: January 2015

A composite model of quarks and bosons is proposed in which a spin 1/2 isospin doublet ψ is the basic building block of quarks and bosons in the standard model. The ψ has two components v and w with charges [Formula: see text] and Q = 0, respectively, that combine to form the three generations of colored quark flavors. A strong force described by a triplet of massless gluons binds the constituents called geminis. The confining constituent non-Abelian SU(2)C field theory is called constituent dynamics with a confining energy scale Λ CD . The constituent dynamics condensate [Formula: see text] spontaneously breaks the electroweak symmetry SU(2)L×U(1)Y→U(1) EM and a triplet of Nambu–Goldstone bosons make the gauge bosons W± and Z0 massive, while retaining a massless photon. A global custodial SU(2)L×SU(2)R symmetry guarantees that the symmetry breaking in the weak interaction sector agrees with electroweak data. The non-Abelian SU(2)C color dynamics satisfies asymptotic freedom, which resolves the gauge and Higgs mass hierarchy problems and makes the model ultraviolet complete. The composite constituent dynamics model can realize a SU(3)C×SU(2)L×U(1)Y electroweak and strong interaction model that satisfies the naturalness principle. The three generations of colorless quarks α and β with charges Q = +1e and Q = 0, respectively, which are predicted to exist in the composite model can form bound states which can be identified with the spectrum of exotic mesons.
Strain and strain rate by speckle-tracking echocardiography correlate with pressure-volume loop-derived contractility indices in a rat model of athlete's heart
Authors: Kovács Attila , Oláh Attila , Lux Árpád , Mátyás Csaba , Németh Balázs Tamás , Kellermayer Dalma , Ruppert Mihály , Török Marianna , Szabó Lilla , Meltzer Anna , Assabiny Alexandra , Birtalan Ede , Merkely Béla , Radovits Tamás
Published: January 2015

Contractile function is considered to be precisely measurable only by invasive hemodynamics. We aimed to correlate strain values measured by speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) with sensitive contractility parameters of pressure-volume (P-V) analysis in a rat model of exercise-induced left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy. LV hypertrophy was induced in rats by swim training and was compared with untrained controls. Echocardiography was performed using a 13-MHz linear transducer to obtain LV long- and short-axis recordings for STE analysis (GE EchoPAC). Global longitudinal (GLS) and circumferential strain (GCS) and longitudinal (LSr) and circumferential systolic strain rate (CSr) were measured. LV P-V analysis was performed using a pressure-conductance microcatheter, and load-independent contractility indices [slope of the end-systolic P-V relationship (ESPVR), preload recruitable stroke work (PRSW), and maximal dP/d t-end-diastolic volume relationship (dP/d tmax-EDV)] were calculated. Trained rats had increased LV mass index (trained vs. control; 2.76 ± 0.07 vs. 2.14 ± 0.05 g/kg, P < 0.001). P-V loop-derived contractility parameters were significantly improved in the trained group (ESPVR: 3.58 ± 0.22 vs. 2.51 ± 0.11 mmHg/μl; PRSW: 131 ± 4 vs. 104 ± 2 mmHg, P < 0.01). Strain and strain rate parameters were also supernormal in trained rats (GLS: −18.8 ± 0.3 vs. −15.8 ± 0.4%; LSr: −5.0 ± 0.2 vs. −4.1 ± 0.1 Hz; GCS: −18.9 ± 0.8 vs. −14.9 ± 0.6%; CSr: −4.9 ± 0.2 vs. −3.8 ± 0.2 Hz, P < 0.01). ESPVR correlated with GLS ( r = −0.71) and LSr ( r = −0.53) and robustly with GCS ( r = −0.83) and CSr ( r = −0.75, all P < 0.05). PRSW was strongly related to GLS ( r = −0.64) and LSr ( r = −0.71, both P < 0.01). STE can be a feasible and useful method for animal experiments. In our rat model, strain and strain rate parameters closely reflected the improvement in intrinsic contractile function induced by exercise training.
Inflammatory impact of IFN-γ in CD8+T cell-mediated lung injury is mediated by both Stat1-dependent and -independent pathways
Authors: Ramana Chilakamarti V. , DeBerge Matthew P. , Kumar Aseem , Alia Christopher S. , Durbin Joan E. , Enelow Richard I.
Published: January 2015

Influenza infection results in considerable pulmonary pathology, a significant component of which is mediated by CD8+T cell effector functions. To isolate the specific contribution of CD8+T cells to lung immunopathology, we utilized a nonviral murine model in which alveolar epithelial cells express an influenza antigen and injury is initiated by adoptive transfer of influenza-specific CD8+T cells. We report that IFN-γ production by adoptively transferred influenza-specific CD8+T cells is a significant contributor to acute lung injury following influenza antigen recognition, in isolation from its impact on viral clearance. CD8+T cell production of IFN-γ enhanced lung epithelial cell expression of chemokines and the subsequent recruitment of inflammatory cells into the airways. Surprisingly, Stat1 deficiency in the adoptive-transfer recipients exacerbated the lung injury that was mediated by the transferred influenza-specific CD8+T cells but was still dependent on IFN-γ production by these cells. Loss of Stat1 resulted in sustained activation of Stat3 signaling, dysregulated chemokine expression, and increased infiltration of the airways by inflammatory cells. Taken together, these data identify important roles for IFN-γ signaling and Stat1-independent IFN-γ signaling in regulating CD8+T cell-mediated acute lung injury. This is the first study to demonstrate an anti-inflammatory effect of Stat1 on CD8+T cell-mediated lung immunopathology without the complication of differences in viral load.
Revisiting Oxidative Dehydrogenation of Ethane by W Doping into MoVMn Mixed Oxides at Low Temperature
Authors: Al-Hazmi Mohammed H. , Odedairo Taiwo , Al-Dossari Adel S. , Choi YongMan
Published: January 2015

The catalytic performance of MoVMnW mixed oxides was investigated in the oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane at three different reaction temperatures (235, 255, and 275°C) using oxygen as an oxidant. The catalysts were characterized by using X-ray diffraction, temperature-programmed reduction, and scanning electron microscopy. The MoVMnW mixed oxide catalyst showed the 70–90% of ethylene selectivity at the reaction temperatures. However, a significant decrease in the selectivity of ethylene was observed by increasing the reaction temperature from 235°C to 275°C.
Bilateral Symmetrical Herpes Zoster in an Immunocompetent 15-Year-Old Adolescent Boy
Authors: Leung Alexander K. C. , Barankin Benjamin
Published: January 2015

Herpes zoster is uncommon in immunocompetent children. The bilateral symmetrical occurrence of herpes zoster lesions is extremely rare. We report a 15-year-old immunocompetent Chinese adolescent boy who developed bilateral symmetrical herpes zoster lesions. To our knowledge, the occurrence of bilateral symmetrical herpes zoster lesions in an immunocompetent individual has not been reported in the pediatric literature.
Medial Calcar Support and Radiographic Outcomes of Plate Fixation for Proximal Humeral Fractures
Authors: Lin Shih-Jie , Tsai Yao-Hung , Yang Tien-Yu , Shen Shih-Hsun , Huang Kuo-Chin , Lee Mel S.
Published: January 2015

Plate fixation remains one of the most popular surgical procedures for treating proximal humeral fractures (PHFx); however, substantial rates of complications have been reported in the literature. The objectives of the study were to examine how medial calcar support (MCS) affects the radiographic outcomes and to determine the prognostic factors predicting treatment failure. We performed a retrospective cohort study of 89 adult patients who had PHFx and were treated with plate fixation at our institution in 2007–2011. The enrolled patients were separated into two groups according to disruption of medial calcar. Our results revealed an increased rate of poor radiographic outcomes in patients with disrupted medial calcar. Osteonecrosis of the humeral head and redisplacement were the two radiographic outcomes which had a positive causality with disruption of medial calcar (P=0.008and 0.050, resp.). Deficient medial calcar, inadequate reduction, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and chronic liver disease were all significant predictors for the development of osteonecrosis in patients after PHFx surgery. Inadequate reduction was also a predictor for redisplacement. We confirmed that the restoration of medial calcar as well as comorbid conditions plays key roles in treatment of patients having PHFx with disrupted medial calcar.
(112) Surface of CuInSe2Thin Films with Doped Cd Atoms
Authors: Yin Bo , Lou Chaogang
Published: January 2015

The doping behavior of Cd atoms in the CuInSe2thin films and their influences on electronic structures are investigated. The doped Cd atoms replace Cu atoms and prefer to stay at the (112) surface of the thin films. They combine with Cu vacancies to form defect pairs due to low formation energy. The Cd atom does not by itself modify significantly the electronic structure of the surface, but the defect pairs have important influences. They result in a down shift of valence band maximum and form a hole barrier at the surface, which can prevent holes from reaching the surface and reduce the recombination of carriers.
Effect of GuiXiong Xiaoyi Wan in Treatment of Endometriosis on Rats
Authors: Jin Zhixing , Wang Li , Zhu Zhiling
Published: January 2015

Objective. To evaluate the effect of GuiXiong Xiaoyi Wan (GXXYW) on the development of endometriosis in a rat model.Methods. Sprague-Dawley rats with surgically induced endometriosis were randomly treated with low-dose GXXYW, high-dose GXXYW, or vehicle (negative control) for 28 days. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess cell proliferation in the lesions. The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase- (TdT-) mediated dUTP biotin nick end labelling (TUNEL) method was performed to analyse the apoptosis induced by GuiXiong Xiaoyi Wan. The percentages of CD3+ lymphocytes, CD4+ lymphocytes, and CD8+ lymphocytes in the spleens of the rats were evaluated using flow cytometric analysis.Results. Treatment with GXXYW significantly decreased the lesion size, inhibited cell proliferation, and induced apoptosis in endometriotic tissue. The spleens of GXXYW-treated rats also demonstrated a significant increase in the percentage of CD4+ lymphocytes and a significant decrease in the percentage of CD8+ lymphocytes.Conclusions. These results suggest that, in a rat model, GXXYW may be effective in the suppression of the growth of endometriosis, possibly through the inhibition of cell proliferation, the induction of apoptosis of endometriotic cells, and the regulation of the immune system.
Twin‐Schnorr: A Security Upgrade for the Schnorr Identity‐Based Identification Scheme
Authors: Chin Ji-Jian , Tan Syh-Yuan , Heng Swee-Huay , Phan Raphael Chung-Wei
Published: January 2015

Most identity‐based identification (IBI) schemes proposed in recent literature are built using pairing operations. This decreases efficiency due to the high operation costs of pairings. Furthermore, most of these IBI schemes are proven to be secure against impersonation under active and concurrent attacks using interactive assumptions such as the one‐more RSA inversion assumption or the one‐more discrete logarithm assumption, translating to weaker security guarantees due to the interactive nature of these assumptions. The Schnorr‐IBI scheme was first proposed through the Kurosawa‐Heng transformation from the Schnorr signature. It remains one of the fastest yet most secure IBI schemes under impersonation against passive attacks due to its pairing‐free design. However, when required to be secure against impersonators under active and concurrent attacks, it deteriorates greatly in terms of efficiency due to the protocol having to be repeated multiple times. In this paper, we upgrade the Schnorr‐IBI scheme to be secure against impersonation under active and concurrent attacks using only the classical discrete logarithm assumption. This translates to a higher degree of security guarantee with only some minor increments in operational costs. Furthermore, because the scheme operates without pairings, it still retains its efficiency and superiority when compared to other pairing‐based IBI schemes.
Solid-Phase Extraction Strategies to Surmount Body Fluid Sample Complexity in High-Throughput Mass Spectrometry-Based Proteomics
Authors: Bladergroen Marco R. , van der Burgt Yuri E. M.
Published: January 2015

For large-scale and standardized applications in mass spectrometry- (MS-) based proteomics automation of each step is essential. Here we present high-throughput sample preparation solutions for balancing the speed of current MS-acquisitions and the time needed for analytical workup of body fluids. The discussed workflows reduce body fluid sample complexity and apply for both bottom-up proteomics experiments and top-down protein characterization approaches. Various sample preparation methods that involve solid-phase extraction (SPE) including affinity enrichment strategies have been automated. Obtained peptide and protein fractions can be mass analyzed by direct infusion into an electrospray ionization (ESI) source or by means of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) without further need of time-consuming liquid chromatography (LC) separations.
A Study on the Rheological Properties of Recycled Rubber‐Modified Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Karacasu Murat , Okur Volkan , Er Arzu
Published: January 2015

Using waste rubber in asphalt mixes has become a common practice in road construction. This paper presents the results of a study on the rheological characteristics of rubber‐modified asphalt (RMA) concrete under static and dynamic loading conditions. A number of static and dynamic creep tests were conducted on RMA mix specimens with different rubber sizes and contents, and a series of resonant column tests were conducted to evaluate the shear modulus and damping values. To simulate the stress‐strain response of traffic‐induced loading, the measurements were taken for different confining pressures and strain levels. The results of the study indicated that rubber modification increases stiffness and damping ratio, making it a very attractive material for use in road construction. However the grain size of the rubber is very important. Although RMA may cost up to 100% more than regular asphalt, the advantages it brings, such as an increased service life of the road and proper waste utilization contributing to a more sustainable infrastructure, may justify the added cost.
An Empirical Study of Hybrid DEA and Grey System Theory on Analyzing Performance: A Case from Indian Mining Industry
Authors: Wang Lai-Wang , Tran Thanh-Tuyen , Nguyen Nhu-Ty
Published: January 2015

India, which has long been recognized as a well-endowed nation in natural mineral resources, is a major minerals producer. According to the report of Indian Ministry of Mines 2013, Indian mining and metals sector ranked the fourth among the mineral producer countries, behind China, United States, and Russia and had in fact led the economy into recovery from the global financial crisis. Since this industry has turned into a significant issue, this paper attempts to rank the performance of 23 Indian mining and metal companies and to evaluate and measure the productivity change of these sectors during different time periods (2010–2014). Besides, the authors would like to choose one advanced model of MPI to see the performance of these companies in the past-present period and the 4-year future period (2015–2018) by using forecasting results of Grey system theory. The results revealed that from the past to future period the National Mineral Development Corporation, Hindalco Industries Limited, and Coal India always keep their highest best rankings among 23 DMUs regarding performance scores. This study contributes better insights of Indian mining industry as it is the core of the economy.
Radiofrequency Ablation of Typical Atrial Flutter via Right Jugular Vein due to Bilateral Obstructed Iliac Veins in a Patient with Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Aksu Tolga , Guler Tumer Erdem , Golcuk Sukriye Ebru , Ozcan Kazım Serhan , Erden Ismail
Published: January 2015

Ablation of cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) is the gold standard method in the treatment of isthmus dependent atrial flutter (AFl). Venous access was obtained usually via right or left femoral veins. In rare cases of obstruction of iliofemoral veins, ablation of CTI can be performed only through the superior approach. We present a 74-year-old woman of typical AFl and dilated cardiomyopathy that was ablated through the right jugular vein because of obstruction of the left and the right iliac veins. This is the first report of successful ablation of CTI in a patient with dilated cardiomyopathy via superior approach.
Correlation between Sperm Parameters and Protein Expression of Antioxidative Defense Enzymes in Seminal Plasma: A Pilot Study
Authors: Macanovic Biljana , Vucetic Milica , Jankovic Aleksandra , Stancic Ana , Buzadzic Biljana , Garalejic Eliana , Korac Aleksandra , Korac Bato , Otasevic Vesna
Published: January 2015

Background. Semen analysis is the cornerstone in the evaluation of male (in)fertility. However, there are men with normal semen tests but with impaired fertilizing ability, as well as fertile men with poor sperm characteristics. Thus, there is rising interest to find novel parameters that will help to predict and define the functional capacity of spermatozoa.Methods. We examined whether there is a correlation between semen parameters (count, progressive motility, and morphology) and protein expression/activity of antioxidative defense enzymes in seminal plasma from 10 normospermic subjects.Results. Sperm progressive motility was in positive correlation with seminal plasma protein expression of both superoxide dismutase (SOD) isoforms (MnSOD and CuZnSOD) and catalase. Also, positive correlation was observed between sperm count and MnSOD protein expression, as well as between sperm morphology and protein expression of catalase in seminal plasma. In contrast, protein expression of glutathione peroxidase was not in correlation with any sperm parameter, while its activity negatively correlated with sperm morphology and motility.Conclusions. These data suggest that evaluation of protein expression of antioxidative defense enzymes in seminal plasma might be of importance in the evaluation of male fertility status and that could be used as an additional biomarker along with classic semen analysis in assessment of semen quality.
Profound Hypoglycemia with Ecstasy Intoxication
Authors: Carrera Perliveh , Iyer Vivek N.
Published: January 2015

Background.3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) or ecstasy is a synthetic drug that is commonly abused for its stimulant and euphoric effects. Adverse MDMA effects include hyperthermia, psychomotor agitation, hemodynamic compromise, renal failure, hyponatremia, and coma. However, endogenous hyperinsulinemia with severe persistent hypoglycemia has not been reported with MDMA use.Case Report.We report the case of a 29-year-old woman who remained severely hypoglycemic requiring continuous intravenous infusion of high-dose dextrose solutions for more than 24 hours after MDMA intoxication. Serum insulin and C-peptide levels confirmed marked endogenous hyperinsulinemia as the cause of the severe hypoglycemia.Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This?Immediate and frequent monitoring of blood glucose should be instituted in patients presenting with MDMA ingestion particularly if found to be initially hypoglycemic. Early recognition can help prevent the deleterious effects of untreated hypoglycemia that can add to the morbidity from MDMA use. Clinicians need to be aware of this side effect of MDMA so they can carefully monitor and treat it, especially in patients presenting with altered mental status.
Epicardial Adipose Tissue Reflects the Presence of Coronary Artery Disease: Comparison with Abdominal Visceral Adipose Tissue
Authors: Oikawa Masayoshi , Owada Takashi , Yamauchi Hiroyuki , Misaka Tomofumi , Machii Hirofumi , Yamaki Takayoshi , Sugimoto Koichi , Kunii Hiroyuki , Nakazato Kazuhiko , Suzuki Hitoshi , Saitoh Shu-ichi , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: January 2015

Accumulation of visceral adipose tissue is associated with a risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). The aim of this study was to examine whether different types of adipose tissue depot may play differential roles in the progression of CAD. Consecutive 174 patients who underwent both computed tomography (CT) and echocardiography were analyzed. Cardiac and abdominal CT scans were performed to measure epicardial and abdominal visceral adipose tissue (EAT and abdominal VAT, resp.). Out of 174 patients, 109 and 113 patients, respectively, presented coronary calcification (CC) and coronary atheromatous plaque (CP). The EAT and abdominal VAT areas were larger in patients with CP compared to those without it. Interestingly, the EAT area was larger in patients with CC compared to those without CC, whereas no difference was observed in the abdominal VAT area between patients with CC and those without. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that the presence of echocardiographic EAT was an independent predictor of CP and CC, but the abdominal VAT area was not. These results suggest that EAT and abdominal VAT may play differential pathological roles in CAD. Given the importance of CC and CP, we should consider the precise assessment of CAD when echocardiographic EAT is detected.
Cone Dystrophy in Patient with HomozygousRP1L1Mutation
Authors: Kikuchi Sachiko , Kameya Shuhei , Gocho Kiyoko , El Shamieh Said , Akeo Keiichiro , Sugawara Yuko , Yamaki Kunihiko , Zeitz Christina , Audo Isabelle , Takahashi Hiroshi
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine whether an autosomal recessive cone dystrophy was caused by a homozygousRP1L1mutation. A family including one subject affected with cone dystrophy and four unaffected members without evidence of consanguinity underwent detailed ophthalmic evaluations. The ellipsoid and interdigitation zones on the spectral-domain optical coherence tomography images were disorganized in the proband. The proband had a reduced amplitude of cone and flicker full-field electroretinograms (ERGs). Focal macular ERGs and multifocal ERGs were severely reduced in the proband. A homozygousRP1L1mutation (c.3628T>C, p.S1210P) was identified in the proband. Family members who were heterozygous for the p.S1210P mutation had normal visual acuity and normal results of clinical evaluations. To investigate other putative pathogenic variant(s), a next-generation sequencing (NGS) approach was applied to the proband. NGS identified missense changes in the heterozygous state of thePCDH15,RPGRIP1, andGPR98genes. None of these variants cosegregated with the phenotype and were predicted to be benign reinforcing the putative pathogenicity of theRP1L1homozygous mutation. The AO images showed a severe reduction of the cone density in the proband. Our findings indicate that a homozygous p.S1210P exchange in theRP1L1gene can cause cone dystrophy.
Human Adipose Derived Stem Cells Induced Cell Apoptosis and S Phase Arrest in Bladder Tumor
Authors: Yu Xi , Su Boxing , Ge Peng , Wang Zicheng , Li Sen , Huang Bingwei , Gong Yanqing , Lin Jian
Published: January 2015

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of human adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) on the viability and apoptosis of human bladder cancer cells. EJ and T24 cells were cocultured with ADSCs or cultured with conditioned medium of ADSCs (ADSC-CM), respectively. The cell counting and colony formation assay showed ADSCs inhibited the proliferation of EJ and T24 cells. Cell viability assessment revealed that the secretions of ADSCs, in the form of conditioned medium, were able to decrease cancer cell viability. Wound-healing assay suggested ADSC-CM suppressed migration of T24 and EJ cells. Moreover, the results of the flow cytometry indicated that ADSC-CM was capable of inducing apoptosis of T24 cells and inducing S phase cell cycle arrest. Western blot revealed ADSC-CM increased the expression of cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP, indicating that ADSC-CM induced apoptosis in a caspase-dependent way. PTEN/PI3K/Akt pathway and Bcl-2 family proteins were involved in the mechanism of this reaction. Our study indicated that ADSCs may provide a promising and practicable manner for bladder tumor therapy.
Resolution Enhancement Method Used for Force Sensing Resistor Array
Authors: Flores De Jesus Karen , Cheng Marvin H. , Jiang Lei , Bakhoum Ezzat G.
Published: January 2015

Tactile sensors are one of the major devices that enable robotic systems to interact with the surrounding environment. This research aims to propose a mathematical model to describe the behavior of a tactile sensor based on experimental and statistical analyses and moreover to develop a versatile algorithm that can be applied to different tactile sensor arrays to enhance the limited resolution. With the proposed algorithm, the resolution can be increased up to twenty times if multiple measurements are available. To verify if the proposed algorithm can be used for tactile sensor arrays that are used in robotic system, a16×10force sensing array (FSR) is adopted. The acquired two-dimensional measurements were processed by a resolution enhancement method (REM) to enhance the resolution, which can be used to improve the resolution for single image or multiple measurements. As a result, the resolution of the sensor is increased and it can be used as synthetic skin to identify accurate shapes of objects and applied forces.
Restless Legs Syndrome among Pakistani Population: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mahmood Khalid , Farhan Rabeea , Surani Asif , Surani Arif Anwer , Surani Salim
Published: January 2015

Objective. Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a chronic distressing disease characterized by an urge to move the legs with an unpleasantsensation during periods of rest. The global prevalence estimates of RLS range from 2.5% to 15%. Method. This cross-sectional study was conducted at various hospitals in Karachi during August 13 to March 14. The visitors who had accompanied patients to Outpatient Department or had come to visit admitted patients were approached conveniently. Subjects were interviewed regarding the essential criteria of RLS and its attributes. Results. The sample size was 390 with 56% being females. The point prevalence of RLS was estimated to be 23.6%. The prevalence in females was twice as high as compared to males. Smoking and low level of education were associated with RLS (P<0.001). Among RLS positive individuals, 50.1% reported frequency of their symptoms to be greater than 16 days per month and 64.1% graded their symptom severity as mild to moderate. About 37% of RLS positive individuals consulted a general physician for their symptoms. Conclusion. RLS is highly prevalent and underdiagnosed condition among Pakistani population. Efforts must be directed to raise the awareness of this condition among physicians and general population.
Synthesis and Electrochemical Characterization of Mesoporous MnO2
Authors: Zhao Jia Chang , Wang Jun , Xu Jing Li
Published: January 2015

The pore, crystal structure, and electrochemical performance of mesoporous MnO2prepared by silica sol template method as electrode material for supercapacitor were investigated in this work. It is found that the crystal structure of nonporous and mesoporous MnO2is confirmed to beβ-MnO2and the crystallinity of mesoporous MnO2decreases due to the formation of mesopore. The results of electrochemical performance show that the specific capacitances of the sample prepared by using 20 g of Mn(NO3)2solution and 40 g of silica sol (named MMO-4) at the scan rate of 5 mV/s are the highest (163.2 F/g), in comparison with 19.3 F/g of that of the sample of blank, suggesting the important role of pore-forming using silica sol as template. As the potential scan rate is raised to 200 mV/s, the specific capacitances of the sample of blank and MMO-4 are 12.2 F/g and 21.6 F/g, respectively. The great improvement of specific capacitance is probably due to the enlarged activated surface area after template is added.
Lemierre’s Syndrome: Recognising a Typical Presentation of a Rare Condition
Authors: Coultas James A. , Bodasing Neena , Horrocks Paul , Cadwgan Anthony
Published: January 2015

Lemierre’s syndrome is a rare complication following an acute oropharyngeal infection. The aetiological agent is typically anaerobic bacteria of the genusFusobacterium. The syndrome is characterised by a primary oropharyngeal infection followed by metastatic spread and suppurative thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein. If left untreated, Lemierre’s syndrome carries a mortality rate of over 90%. Whilst relatively common in the preantibiotic era, the number of cases of Lemierre’s syndrome subsequently declined with the introduction of antibiotics. With the increase of antibiotic resistance and a greater reluctance to prescribe antibiotics for minor conditions such as tonsillitis, there are now concerns developing about the reemergence of the condition. This increasing prevalence in the face of an unfamiliarity of clinicians with the classical features of this “forgotten disease” may result in the misdiagnosis or delay in diagnosis of this potentially fatal illness. This case report illustrates the delay in diagnosis of probable Lemierre’s syndrome in a 17-year-old female, its diagnosis, and successful treatment which included the use of anticoagulation therapy. Whilst there was a positive outcome, the case highlights the need for a suspicion of this rare condition when presented with distinctive signs and symptoms.
Effective Schemes for Place Name Annotations with Mobile Crowd
Authors: Fan Yao-Chung , Tseng Hsueh-Wen
Published: January 2015

With the popularity of mobile devices, numerous mobile applications have been and will continue to be developed for various interesting usage scenarios. Riding this trend, recent research community envisions a novel information retrieving and information-sharing platform, which views the users with mobile devices, being willing to accept crowdsourcing tasks ascrowd sensors. With the neat idea, a set of crowd sensors applications have emerged. Among the applications, the geospatial information systems based on crowd sensors show significant potentials beyond traditional ones by providing real-time geospatial information. In the applications, user positioning is of great importance. However, existing positioning techniques have their own disadvantages. In this paper, we study using pervasive Wi-Fi access point as user position indicators. The major challenge for using Wi-Fi access point is that there is no mechanism for mapping observed Wi-Fi signals to human-defined places. To this end, our idea is to employ crowdsourcing model to perform place name annotations by mobile participants to bridge the gap between signals and human-defined places. In this paper, we propose schemes for effectively enabling crowdsourcing-based place name annotation, and conduct real trials with recruited participants to study the effectiveness of the proposed schemes. The experiment results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed schemes over existing solutions.
Constructing RBAC Based Security Model in u‐Healthcare Service Platform
Authors: Shin Moon Sun , Jeon Heung Seok , Ju Yong Wan , Lee Bum Ju , Jeong Seon-Phil
Published: January 2015

In today’s era of aging society, people want to handle personal health care by themselves in everyday life. In particular, the evolution of medical and IT convergence technology and mobile smart devices has made it possible for people to gather information on their health status anytime and anywhere easily using biometric information acquisition devices. Healthcare information systems can contribute to the improvement of the nation’s healthcare quality and the reduction of related cost. However, there are no perfect security models or mechanisms for healthcare service applications, and privacy information can therefore be leaked. In this paper, we examine security requirements related to privacy protection in u‐healthcare service and propose an extended RBAC based security model. We propose and design u‐healthcare service integration platform (u‐HCSIP) applying RBAC security model. The proposed u‐HCSIP performs four main functions: storing and exchanging personal health records (PHR), recommending meals and exercise, buying/selling private health information or experience, and managing personal health data using smart devices.
BRAF Inhibition Stimulates Melanoma-Associated Macrophages to Drive Tumor Growth
Authors: Wang Tao , Xiao Min , Ge Yingbin , Krepler Clemens , Belser Eric , Lopez-Coral Alfonso , Xu Xiaowei , Zhang Gao , Azuma Rikka , Liu Qin , Liu Rui , Li Ling , Amaravadi Ravi K. , Xu Wei , Karakousis Giorgos , Gangadhar Tara C. , Schuchter Lynn M. , Lieu Melissa , Khare Sanika , Halloran Molly B. , Herlyn Meenhard , Kaufman Russel E.
Published: January 2015

Purpose: To investigate the roles of melanoma-associated macrophages in melanoma resistance to BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi).

Experimental Design: An in vitro macrophage and melanoma cell coculture system was used to investigate whether macrophages play a role in melanoma resistance to BRAFi. The effects of macrophages in tumor resistance were examined by proliferation assay, cell death assay, and Western blot analyses. Furthermore, two mouse preclinical models were used to validate whether targeting macrophages can increase the antitumor activity of BRAFi. Finally, the number of macrophages in melanoma tissues was examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results: We demonstrate that in BRAF-mutant melanomas, BRAFi paradoxically activate the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway in macrophages to produce VEGF, which reactivates the MAPK pathway and stimulates cell growth in melanoma cells. Blocking the MAPK pathway or VEGF signaling then reverses macrophage-mediated resistance. Targeting macrophages increases the antitumor activity of BRAFi in mouse and human tumor models. The presence of macrophages in melanomas predicts early relapse after therapy.

Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that macrophages play a critical role in melanoma resistance to BRAFi, suggesting that targeting macrophages will benefit patients with BRAF-mutant melanoma. Clin Cancer Res; 21(7); 1652–64. ©2015 AACR.
The BET Bromodomain Inhibitor OTX015 Affects Pathogenetic Pathways in Preclinical B-cell Tumor Models and Synergizes with Targeted Drugs
Authors: Boi Michela , Gaudio Eugenio , Bonetti Paola , Kwee Ivo , Bernasconi Elena , Tarantelli Chiara , Rinaldi Andrea , Testoni Monica , Cascione Luciano , Ponzoni Maurilio , Mensah Afua Adjeiwaa , Stathis Anastasios , Stussi Georg , Riveiro María Eugenia , Herait Patrice , Inghirami Giorgio , Cvitkovic Esteban , Zucca Emanuele , Bertoni Francesco
Published: January 2015

Purpose: In cancer cells, the epigenome is often deregulated, and inhibition of the bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) family of bromodomain-containing proteins is a novel epigenetic therapeutic approach. Preliminary results of an ongoing phase I trial have reported promising activity and tolerability with the new BET bromodomain inhibitor OTX015.

Experimental Design: We assessed the preclinical activity of OTX015 as single agent and in combination in mature B-cell lymphoma models and performed in vitro and in vivo experiments to identify the mechanism of action and the genetic features associated with sensitivity to the compound.

Results: OTX015 showed antiproliferative activity in a large panel of cell lines derived from mature B-cell lymphoid tumors with median IC50 of 240 nmol/L, without significant differences among the different histotypes. In vitro and in vivo experiments showed that OTX015 targeted NFKB/TLR/JAK/STAT signaling pathways, MYC- and E2F1-regulated genes, cell-cycle regulation, and chromatin structure. OTX015 presented in vitro synergism with several anticancer agents, especially with mTOR and BTK inhibitors. Gene expression signatures associated with different degrees of sensitivity to OTX015 were identified. Although OTX015 was mostly cytostatic, the compound induced apoptosis in a genetically defined subgroup of cells, derived from activated B-cell–like diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, bearing wtTP53, mutations in MYD88, and CD79B or CARD11.

Conclusions: Together with the data coming from the ongoing phase I study, the in vitro and in vivo data presented here provide the basis for further clinical investigation of OTX015 as single agent and in combination therapies. Clin Cancer Res; 21(7); 1628–38. ©2015 AACR.
Predicting Cancer Drug Response: Advancing the DREAM
Authors: Altman Russ B.
Published: January 2015

Summary: The DREAM challenge is a community effort to assess current capabilities in systems biology. Two recent challenges focus on cancer cell drug sensitivity and drug synergism, and highlight strengths and weaknesses of current approaches. Cancer Discov; 5(3); 237–8. ©2015 AACR.
Effects of Power and Time on Ablation Size Produced by Radiofrequency Ablation: In vitro Study in Fresh Human Placenta
Authors: Satapornteera Pornsak , Raveesunthornkiat Manasanan , Sukpanichnant Sanya , Tongdee Trongtum , Homsud Saowanee , Wataganara Tuangsit
Published: January 2015

Introduction: Radiofrequency (RF) current has been clinically used to coagulate some solid tumors. We investigated the effects of RF on fresh placenta to determine the possibility of its prenatal application in placental tumors. Materials and Methods: Total 196 fresh placentae were interstitially coagulated with a 2-cm RF needle at 14 power-duration combinations. We compared the horizontal length of coagulated area using ultrasound and microscopic measurements. Histological changes were also described. Results: We did not observe any significant change in lesion size from different power levels (p = 0.104 and 0.242 for ultrasound and microscopic measurements, respectively). Mean ± SD lesion length after 5 and 10 min of exposure measured by microscopy are 16.00 ± 2.22 and 17.00 ± 1.82 mm, respectively (p < 0.001). Ultrasound consistently over-measured lesion size by 2.87 ± 3.45 mm. We also observed a collapse of large vessels on chorionic plate adjacent to the RF site. Conclusion: Our in vitro experiment demonstrated placental tissue coagulation and collapse of chorionic vessels from RF. Projecting the area of placental coagulation should be based on duration of RF exposure, and not on the power level. An in vivo animal study is needed before these data are translated into clinical practice.
Endometrial Cancer: Hidden Pathology in a Patient with Abnormal Uterine Bleeding and Known Leiomyoma
Authors: Sri Trisha , Steren Albert J. , Stratton Pamela
Published: January 2015

Uterine leiomyomas and endometrial pathology are both associated with abnormal uterine bleeding. We report a case in which a nulliparous woman with heavy uterine bleeding and leiomyomas had undergone two prior hysteroscopic myomectomies for benign leiomyomas. She was evaluated, but was ineligible for a clinical trial of a novel Magnetic Resonance guided High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (MRg​HIFU) device. The 8 cm, prolapsed submucosal leiomyoma hindered endometrial sampling and was inaccessible to HIFU treatment. Preoperatively, neither endometrial sampling nor saline sonohysterography was technically feasible. She underwent hysterectomy, and on histological examination of specimen, stage 1A grade 1 endometrial carcinoma was found on the endometrial side of the prolapsing fibroid. Endometrial pathology is an important consideration in the evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding, even in women with large prolapsing leiomyoma.
Endoscopic Evaluation and Dissection of the Anterior Vitreous Base
Authors: Boscher Claude , Kuhn Ferenc
Published: January 2015

The specific concept of pathological anterior vitreous base (AVB) and of its endoscopy-assisted dissection was elaborated during our 20 years' experience with endoscopy for observing the ‘in vivo' anatomy and pathoanatomy of the AVB, and for dissecting the anterior vitreous cortex in over 2,000 consecutive eyes. Endoscopy provides a 360° view of the entire vitreous cavity akin to the surgeon's eye being inside the operated eye. Evaluation of the capsulozonular complex, ciliary body, and AVB is not only independent of anterior media transparency, but unimpeded by scleral depression and magnified. High magnification dissection of the AVB gel can be conducted in an individualized and unmatched fashion.
Uterine Balloon Tamponade Device and Cervical Cerclage to Correct Partial Uterine Inversion during Puerperium; Case Report
Authors: Marasinghe Jeevan P. , Epitawela Dinesh , Cole Steve , Senanayake Hemantha
Published: January 2015

A healthy 26-year-old woman was noted to have residual uterine inversion after manual replacement of puerperal uterine inversion under general anaesthesia. This was corrected by the insertion of a balloon tamponade device. A cervical suture was applied to prevent ballooning of the device through the cervix. This little modification was immediately successful in preventing ballooning of the tamponade device. The whole idea was to overcome the need for a laparotomy. A review of the literature and the mechanism of action are discussed here.