bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Outsourced Proofs of Retrievability Enabling Auditing Migration for Remote Storage Security
Authors: Rao Lu , Tu Tengfei , Zhang Hua , Wen Qiaoyan , Xiao Jia
Published: May 2018

Remote data auditing service is important for mobile clients to guarantee the intactness of their outsourced data stored at cloud side. To relieve mobile client from the nonnegligible burden incurred by performing the frequent data auditing, more and more literatures propose that the execution of such data auditing should be migrated from mobile client to third‐party auditor (TPA). However, existing public auditing schemes always assume that TPA is reliable, which is the potential risk for outsourced data security. Although Outsourced Proofs of Retrievability (OPOR) have been proposed to further protect against the malicious TPA and collusion among any two entities, the original OPOR scheme applies only to the static data, which is the limitation that should be solved for enabling data dynamics. In this paper, we design a novel authenticated data structure called bv23Tree, which enables client to batch‐verify the indices and values of any number of appointed leaves all at once for efficiency. By utilizing bv23Tree and a hierarchical storage structure, we present the first solution for Dynamic OPOR (DOPOR), which extends the OPOR model to support dynamic updates of the outsourced data. Extensive security and performance analyses show the reliability and effectiveness of our proposed scheme.
Uncovering Tor: An Examination of the Network Structure
Authors: Monk Bryan , Mitchell Julianna , Frank Richard , Davies Garth
Published: May 2018

The dark web is a concealed portion of the Internet that can only be accessed through specialized software. Although multiple dark web technologies exist, with a common trait of using encryption to enforce anonymity, the Tor network remains the most prominent dark web network. To visit websites on the network, the user must use a heavily modified Firefox browser. The use of encryption to achieve anonymity poses a significant challenge for law enforcement that wishes to monitor users and content for illicit activity. This study examines Tor by focusing on the network structures created between websites via hyperlinks. Examining hyperlinks can provide insight into how virtual communities form on a network. We explore traditional social disorganization principles as a basis to draw comparisons between these virtual communities and real-life crime-prone neighborhoods. Automated data collection techniques were used to leverage the interconnected nature of domains on Tor. Using social network analysis, website hyperlinks are examined and core sites are identified. The analysis shows that these core sites form a significant portion of all connections made on the network with a density of 0.132. This core serves a critical function and has implications for detecting how users connect on Tor.
Precision Medicine for Breast Cancer: The Paths to Truly Individualized Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Harris Eleanor E. R.
Published: May 2018

Precision medicine in oncology seeks to individualize each patient’s treatment regimen based on an accurate assessment of the risk of recurrence or progression of that person’s cancer. Precision will be achieved at each phase of care, from detection to diagnosis to surgery, systemic therapy, and radiation therapy, to survivorship and follow-up care. The precision arises from detailed knowledge of the inherent biological propensities of each tumor, rather than generalizing treatment approaches based on phenotypic, or even genotypic, categories. Extensive research is being conducted in multiple disciplines, including radiology, pathology, molecular biology, and surgical, medical, and radiation oncology. Clinical trial design is adapting to the new paradigms and moving away from grouping heterogeneous patient populations into limited treatment comparison arms. This review touches on several areas invested in clinical research. This special issue highlights the specific work of a number of groups working on precision medicine for breast cancer.
Effect of Power Cycling and Heat Aging on Reliability and IMC Growth of Sn‐5Sb and Sn‐10Sb Solder Joints
Authors: Kobayashi Tatsuya , Shohji Ikuo , Nakata Yusuke
Published: May 2018

Power cycle reliability of solder joints with Sn‐5Sb (mass%) and Sn‐10Sb (mass%) alloys was investigated. The effects of power cycling and heat aging on the growth of intermetallic compound (IMC) layers at the interfaces between Sn‐Sb alloys and Cu plates were also investigated. In the power cycling test, the solder joint with Sn‐10Sb has high reliability compared with that of Sn‐5Sb. IMC layers grew in both joints with increasing number of power cycles. Compared with Sn‐5Sb and Sn‐10Sb, difference in growth kinetics of IMC layers was negligible. A similar tendency was observed in the heat aging test. Compared with the power cycling and the heat aging, growth of IMC layers at the aging temperature of 200°C is faster than that in the power cycling test at the temperature range of 100°C to 200°C, while that at the aging temperature of 100°C, the growth is slower. On the basis of the comparison between the power cycling and the heat aging, it was clarified that growth kinetics of IMC layers in the power cycling can be predicted by investigating growth kinetics of the IMC layer at the temperatures in the vicinity of the peak temperature in power cycling.
Study on the Nonlinear Characteristics of a Rotating Flexible Blade with Dovetail Interface Feature
Authors: Li Chaofeng , Shen Zengchuang , Zhong Bingfu , Wen Bangchun
Published: May 2018

A dynamic model is proposed in this paper for analyzing the nonlinear characteristics of a flexible blade. The dynamical equation of motion for a rotational flexible blade in a centrifugal force field is established based on the finite element method. A macro‐stick‐slip mechanical model of dry friction is established to simulate the constraint condition of the flexible blade. The combined motion of the external excitation and friction produces a piecewise linear vibration which is actually nonlinear. The numerical integration method is employed to calculate the vibration reduction characteristics of the nonlinear constrained rotating blade. The results show that the nonlinear dry friction force produced by the dovetail interface plays an important role in vibration reduction. And the effect of dry friction vibration reduction is significant when the rotating speed is slow or the friction coefficient is small. Besides, the magnitude of external excitation also has a great impact on the state of the friction. Therefore, some relevant experimental researches should be done in the future.
Evaluation of the Combined Effects of Heat and Lighting on the Level of Attention and Reaction Time: Climate Chamber Experiments in Iran
Authors: Mohebian Zohreh , Farhang Dehghan Somayeh , Dehghan Habiballah
Published: May 2018

Heat exposure and unsuitable lighting are two physical hazardous agents in many workplaces for which there are some evidences regarding their mental effects. The purpose of this study was to assess the combined effect of heat exposure and different lighting levels on the attention rate and reaction time in a climatic chamber. This study was conducted on 33 healthy students (17 M/16 F) with a mean (±SD) age of22.1±2.3years. The attention and reaction time test were done by continuous performance test and the RT meter, respectively, in different exposure conditions including the dry temperatures (22°C and 37°C) and lighting levels (200, 500, and 1500 lux). Findings demonstrated that increase in heat and lighting level caused a decrease in average attention percentage and correct responses and increase in commission error, omission error, and response time (P<0.05). The average of simple, diagnostic, two-color selective, and two-sound selective reaction times increased after combined exposure to heat and lighting (P<0.05). The results of this study indicated that, in job task which requires using cognitive functions like attention, vigilance, concentration, cautiousness, and reaction time, the work environment must be optimized in terms of heat and lighting level.
Boundary Region Detection for Continuous Objects in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Yaqiang , Wang Zhenhua , Meng Lin , Zhou Zhangbing
Published: May 2018

Industrial Internet of Things has been widely used to facilitate disaster monitoring applications, such as liquid leakage and toxic gas detection. Since disasters are usually harmful to the environment, detecting accurate boundary regions for continuous objects in an energy‐efficient and timely fashion is a long‐standing research challenge. This article proposes a novel mechanism for continuous object boundary region detection in a fog computing environment, where sensing holes may exist in the deployed network region. Leveraging sensory data that have been gathered, interpolation algorithms have been applied to estimate sensory data at certain geographical locations, in order to estimate a more accurate boundary line. To examine whether estimated sensory data reflect that fact, mobile sensors are adopted to traverse these locations for gathering their sensory data, and the boundary region is calibrated accordingly. Experimental evaluation shows that this technique can generate a precise object boundary region with certain time constraints, and the network lifetime can be prolonged significantly.
Effectiveness of Fibers from “Cabernet Sauvignon” (Vitis vinifera) Pomace as Fining Agents for Red Wines
Authors: Gil Mariona , Del Barrio-Galán Rubén , Úbeda Cristina , Peña-Neira Álvaro
Published: May 2018

Recent findings have highlighted the potential of fibers from grape cell wall material to be fining agents for red wines as alternatives to animal-derived proteins. The affinity of those fibers for grape proanthocyanidins (also known as condensed tannins) seems to depend on the initial phenolic composition of the wines to be fined and on the applied dose of fibers. In the present work, “Cabernet Sauvignon” grapes were harvested at three different maturity levels and used for making red wine. The pomaces of the three vinifications were used to obtain the cell wall fibers. Each wine was treated with the three purified fibers at two different doses (0.2 g/L and 2.5 g/L) under winery-like conditions in order to check the potential of fibers as fining agents. Color and phenolic composition of the treated wines were determined immediately after the treatments and after four and nine months of wine bottle ageing. The effectiveness of the fining strongly depends on the initial wine matrix. Wines treated at high doses had lower color density and higher hue than control untreated wines. Small differences were observed in the phenolic content of the treated wines. Those differences were dose dependent and almost disappeared after several months of ageing. The maturity of the grapes from which the fibers came had no influence on the effectiveness of the fining. Additionally, there was no evidence of polysaccharide release from the fibers to the wine.
Differential Modulation of Transcription Factors and Cytoskeletal Proteins in Prostate Carcinoma Cells by a Bacterial Lactone
Authors: Kumar Senthil R. , Bryan Jeffrey N. , Eaton Amanda M. , Robinson Katherine L. , Gajagowni Saivaroon
Published: May 2018

The present study tested the effect of a bacterial lactone N-(3-oxododecanoyl)-homoserine lactone (C12-HSL) on the cytoskeletal and transcriptional genes and proteins in prostate adenocarcinoma (PA) cells (DU145 and LNCaP) and prostate small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SCNC) PC3 cells including their cellular viability and apoptosis. Our data indicate that cell migration and colony formation were affected in the presence of C12-HSL. C12-HSL induced apoptosis and altered viability of both PA and SCNC cells in a concentration dependent manner as measured by fluorescence and chemiluminescence assays. Compared to PCa cells, noncancerous prostate epithelial cells (RWPE1) were resistant to modification by C12-HSL. Further, the viability of PC3 cells in 3D matrix was suppressed by C12-HSL treatment as detected using calcein AM fluorescence in situ. C12-HSL treatment induced cytoskeletal associated protein expression of vinculin and RhoC, which may have implications in cancer cell motility, adhesion, and metastasis. IQGAP protein expression was reduced in DU145 and RWPE1 cells in the presence of C12-HSL. C12-HSL decreased STAT3 phosphorylation in DU145 cells but increased STAT1 protein phosphorylation in PC3 and LNCaP cells. Overall, these studies indicate that C12-HSL can trigger changes in transcription factors and cytoskeletal proteins and thereby modulate growth and migration properties of PCa cells.
Characteristics of Lower Leg Muscle Activity in Patients with Cerebral Palsy during Cycling on an Ergometer
Authors: Roy Susmita , Alves-Pinto Ana , Lampe Renée
Published: May 2018

Purpose. Cycling on ergometer is often part of rehabilitation programs for patients with cerebral palsy (CP). The present study analyzed activity patterns of individual lower leg muscle during active cycling on ergometer in patients with CP and compared them to similar recordings in healthy participants.Methods. Electromyographic (EMG) recordings of lower leg muscle activity were collected from 14 adult patients and 10 adult healthy participants. Activity of the following muscles was recorded: Musculus tibialis anterior, Musculus gastrocnemius, Musculus rectus femoris, and Musculus biceps femoris. Besides qualitative analysis also quantitative analysis of individual muscle activity was performed by computing the coefficient of variation of EMG signal amplitude.Results. More irregular EMG patterns were observed in patients in comparison to healthy participants: agonist-antagonist cocontractions were more frequent, muscle activity measured at specific points of the cycle path was more variable, and dynamic range of muscle activity along the cycle path was narrower in patients. Hypertonicity was also more frequent in patients.Conclusion. Muscle activity patterns during cycling differed substantially across patients. It showed irregular nature and occasional sharp high peaks. Dynamic range was also narrower than in controls. Observations underline the need for individualized cycling training to optimize rehabilitation effects.
A Review of Necrotauliids from the Triassic/Jurassic of England (Trichoptera: Necrotauliidae)
Authors: Kelly Richard S. , Ross Andrew J. , Coram Robert A.
Published: May 2018

Species previously attributed to Necrotauliidae are revised from the Late Triassic and Early Jurassic of England based on examination of type specimens and non-type material. The necrotauliids have been considered as a basal family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) or as a paraphyletic assemblage of stem-amphiesmenopterans. Herein a new genus,Austaulius, is erected which includes all Lilstock Formation∖Lower Lias material from England; the previously described species are synonymized withA. furcatusand a new species,A. haustrum, is described from the Dorset Coast, the holotype of which preserves synapomorphic traits of the Trichoptera not previously described suggesting that the family is trichopteran. The type genus remainsNecrotauliusand type speciesN. parvulus(Geinitz, 1884) from the type locality of Dobbertin, Germany. One species ofNecrotauliusis represented in the UK,N. parvulus, which is found in the Upper Lias.
Distributed Finite‐Time State Estimation of Interconnected Complex Metabolic Networks
Authors: Sepulveda-Galvez Alfonso , Badillo-Corona Jesus A. , Chairez Isaac
Published: May 2018

A set of distributed robust finite‐time state observers was developed and tested to estimate the main biochemical substances in interconnected metabolic networks with complex structure. The finite‐time estimator was designed by composing several supertwisting based step‐by‐step state observers. This segmented structure was proposed accordingly to the partition of metabolic network obtained as a result of applying the observability analysis of the model used to represent metabolic networks. The observer was developed under the assumption that a sufficient and small number of intracellular compounds can be obtained by some feasible analytic techniques. These techniques are enlisted to demonstrate the feasibility of designing the proposed observer. A set of numerical simulations was proposed to test the observer design over the hydrogen producing metabolic behavior of Escherichia coli. The numerical evaluations showed the superior performance of the observer (on recovering immeasurable state values) over classical approaches (high gain). The variations of internal metabolites inserted in the hydrogen productive metabolic networks were collected from databases. This information supplied to the observer served to validate its ability to recover the time evolution of nonmeasurable metabolites.
The Quantum Cheshire Cat Effect in the Presence of Decoherence
Authors: Richter Monika , Dziewit Bartosz , Dajka Jerzy
Published: May 2018

Even the subtle and apparently strange quantum effects can sometimes survive otherwise lethal influence of an omnipresent decoherence. We show that an archetypal quantum Cheshire Cat, a paradox of a separation between a position of a quantum particle, a photon, and its internal property, the polarization, in a two-path Mach–Zehnder setting, is robust to decoherence caused by a bosonic infinite bath locally coupled to the polarization of a photon. Decoherence affects either the cat or its grin depending on which of the two paths is noisy. For a pure decoherence, in an absence of photon–environment energy exchange, we provide exact results for weak values of the photon position and polarization indicating that the information loss affects the quantum Cheshire Cat only qualitatively and the paradox survives. We show that it is also the case beyond the pure decoherence for a small rate of dissipation.
The III–V Triple-Junction Solar Cell Characteristics and Optimization with a Fresnel Lens Concentrator
Authors: Guo Yin , Liang Qibing , Shu Bifen , Wang Jing , Yang Qingchuan
Published: May 2018

At present, the Fresnel lens are commonly used as the condenser in high-concentrating photovoltaic (HCPV) modules. It is ideally believed that the output power of a III–V triple-junction solar cell which is placed on the focal plane of a Fresnel lens is the largest, because the intensity of the sunlight on the focal plane is the largest. Actually, according to our work, the dispersion of sunlight through a Fresnel lens and the nonparallelism and divergence of the incident light will lead to changes in the spectrum and the homogeneity of illumination, and cause a drop of the solar cell output. In this paper, the influence of the dispersion and nonparallel incidence of the light on the output of a triple-junction solar cell at different positions near the focal plane were theoretically studied, combined with the light-tracing simulation method and triple-junction solar cell circuit network model. The results show that the III–V triple-junction solar cell has the highest output power in both sides of the focal plane positions. The output power can be increased by about 15% after being optimized. The simulation results were verified by the experiments.
Synthesis of Poly(lactic acid)-block-poly(N,N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) Copolymers with Controllable Block Structures via Reversible Addition Fragmentation Polymerization from Aminolyzed Poly(lactic acid)
Authors: Yu Wenwen , Zhu Lijing , Shi Jiangao , Zhao Cunting
Published: May 2018

Poly(lactic acid)-block-poly(N,N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PLA-PDMAEMA) copolymers were synthesized from aminolyzed PLA via reversible addition fragmentation (RAFT) polymerization. PLA undergoes aminolytic degradation with ethylenediamine (EDA). The kinetics of the aminolysis reaction of PLA at different temperatures and EDA concentrations was investigated in detail. The molar masses of products rapidly decreased in the initial stage at low aminolytic degree. Meanwhile, reactive –NH2 and –OH groups were introduced to the end of shorter PLA chains and used as sites to further immobilize the RAFT agent. PLA-PDMAEMA block copolymers were synthesized. A pseudo-first-order reaction kinetics was observed for the RAFT polymerization of PDMAEMA at a low conversion. By controlling the aminolysis reaction of PLA and RAFT polymerization degree of DMAEMA, the length distributions of the PLA and PDMAEMA blocks can be controlled. This method can be extended to more systems to obtain block copolymers with controllable block structure.
Growth Media Affect Assessment of Antimicrobial Activity of Plant-Derived Polyphenols
Authors: Xu Xin , Ou Zhen M. , Wu Christine D.
Published: May 2018

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different microbial growth media on the laboratory assessment of antimicrobial activity of natural polyphenolic compounds. The inhibition of the tea polyphenol EGCG on growth of selected oral microorganisms was evaluated in complex media and a protein-free chemically defined medium (CDM). Other antimicrobial agents (polyphenolic grape seed extract, plant alkaloid berberine, methyl salicylate, and chlorhexidine gluconate) were also tested in the study. The presence of proteins and their effects on the antimicrobial activity of EGCG were investigated by the addition of BSA to the CDM. The MICs of EGCG against test oral microorganisms were 4 to 64 times higher in complex media than in CDM. The polyphenolic grape seed extract exhibited similar discrepancies. However, the MICs of the nonpolyphenolic compounds (berberine, methyl salicylate, and chlorhexidine) were not significantly different between the two growth media. The MIC of EGCG againstS. mutansUA159 in CDM with added BSA was 16 times higher than that in CDM alone. Therefore, nonproteinaceous CDM should be used to avoid interference of proteins with the active ingredients when testing the antimicrobial activity of plant-derived polyphenolic compounds against microorganisms. This will also minimize the discrepancies noted in results obtained by different investigators.
A Version of Uncertainty Principle for Quaternion Linear Canonical Transform
Authors: Bahri Mawardi , Resnawati  , Musdalifah Selvy
Published: May 2018

In recent years, the two-dimensional (2D) quaternion Fourier and quaternion linear canonical transforms have been the focus of many research papers. In the present paper, based on the relationship between the quaternion Fourier transform (QFT) and the quaternion linear canonical transform (QLCT), we derive a version of the uncertainty principle associated with the QLCT. We also discuss the generalization of the Hausdorff-Young inequality in the QLCT domain.
Very Low Volume High-Intensity Interval Exercise Is More Effective in Young Than Old Women
Authors: Krusnauskas Raulas , Venckunas Tomas , Snieckus Audrius , Eimantas Nerijus , Baranauskiene Neringa , Skurvydas Albertas , Brazaitis Marius , Liubinskiene Artemide , Kamandulis Sigitas
Published: May 2018

We investigated the acute neuromuscular and stress responses to three different high-intensity interval training sessions in young (age 19.5±1.3 years) and older (age 65.7±2.8 years) women. Cycling exercise comprised either 6 × 5 s or 3 × 30 s all-out, or 3 × 60 s submaximal, efforts each performed 5 weeks apart in randomized order. Peak and average power was higher in young than in older women and was largest during the 6 × 5 s strategy in both groups (p<0.05). The decrease in the ratio of torques evoked by 20 and 100 Hz electrical stimulation, representing low-frequency fatigue, was more evident after the 3 × 30 and 3 × 60 s than the 6 × 5 s bout in both groups and was larger in young than in older women (p<0.05). Both groups preferred 6 × 5 s cycling for further training. In conclusion, in young women, very low volume (6 × 5 s) all-out exercise induces significant physiological stress and seems to be an effective means of training. For older women, longer exercise sessions (3 × 60 s) are more stressful than shorter ones but are still tolerable psychologically.
A Modified Cellular Automaton Model for Accounting for Traffic Behaviors during Signal Change Intervals
Authors: Hsu Chih-Cheng , Chiou Yu-Chiun
Published: May 2018

Previous cellular automata (CA) models have been developed for simulating driver behaviors in response to traffic signal control. However, driver behaviors during traffic signal change intervals, including cross/stop decision and speed adjustment, have not yet been studied. Based on this, this paper aims to propose a change interval CA model for replicating driver’s perception and response to amber light based on stopping probability and speed adjusting functions. The proposed model has been validated by exemplified and field cases. To investigate the applicability of the proposed model, macroscopic and microscopic analyses are conducted. Although the macroscopic fundamental diagram analysis reveals only a small decrease in maximum traffic flow rates with considering driver behaviors in change intervals, in the microscopic analysis, the proposed model can present reasonable vehicular trajectories and deceleration rates during slowdown process.
Design and Deployment of a Pediatric Cardiac Arrest Surveillance System
Authors: Duval-Arnould Jordan Michel , Newton Heather Marie , McNamara Leann , Engorn Branden Michael , Jones Kareen , Bernier Meghan , Dodge Pamela , Salamone Cheryl , Bhalala Utpal , Jeffers Justin M. , Engineer Lilly , Diener-West Marie , Hunt Elizabeth Anne
Published: May 2018

Objective. We aimed to increase detection of pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) events and collection of physiologic and performance data for use in quality improvement (QI) efforts. Materials and Methods. We developed a workflow-driven surveillance system that leveraged organizational information technology systems to trigger CPR detection and analysis processes. We characterized detection by notification source, type, location, and year, and compared it to previous methods of detection. Results. From 1/1/2013 through 12/31/2015, there were 2,986 unique notifications associated with 2,145 events, 317 requiring CPR. PICU and PEDS-ED accounted for 65% of CPR events, whereas floor care areas were responsible for only 3% of events. 100% of PEDS-OR and >70% of PICU CPR events would not have been included in QI efforts. Performance data from both defibrillator and bedside monitor increased annually. (2013: 1%; 2014: 18%; 2015: 27%). Discussion. After deployment of this system, detection has increased ∼9-fold and performance data collection increased annually. Had the system not been deployed, 100% of PEDS-OR and 50–70% of PICU, NICU, and PEDS-ED events would have been missed. Conclusion. By leveraging hospital information technology and medical device data, identification of pediatric cardiac arrest with an associated increased capture in the proportion of objective performance data is possible.
Dynamic Lever Arm Error Compensation of POS Used for Airborne Earth Observation
Authors: Zhaoxing Lu , Jiancheng Fang , Xiaolin Gong , Jianli Li , Shicheng Wang , Yun Wang
Published: May 2018

The position and orientation system (POS) is widely applied in airborne Earth observation, which integrates the strapdown inertial navigation system (SINS) and global positioning system (GPS) to provide high-accuracy position, velocity, and attitude information for remote sensing motion compensation. However, for keeping the appointed direction of remote sensing load, the inertial measurement unit (IMU) and remote sensing load will be driven to sweep by the servo machine. The lever arms among IMU, GPS, and remote sensing load will be time varying, and their influence on the measurement accuracy of POS is serious. To solve the problem, a dynamic lever arm error compensation method is proposed, which contains the first-level lever arm error compensations between IMU and GPS and the second-level lever arm error compensation between POS and remote sensing load. The flight experiment results show that the proposed method can effectively compensate the dynamic lever arm error and achieve high measurement accuracy for POS.
A Novel Fragment Derived from Laminin-411 Facilitates Proliferation and Differentiation of Odontoblast-Like Cells
Authors: Tang Jia , Saito Takashi
Published: May 2018

The aim for the present study was to evaluate the in vitro effects of iMatrix-411 in odontoblast-like cells. To that end, iMatrix-411 was coated to both nontissue culture treated- (Non-PS) and tissue culture treated-polystyrene (TCPS) multiwells. MDPC-23 cells were seeded into noncoated (control) or coated wells. Optimal coating density and cell proliferation were assessed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) at day two, day three, and day five. Osteo/odontogenic differentiation was evaluated by real-time RT-PCR and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity at days seven and eight, respectively. Calcific deposition of cells was visualized by alizarin red staining. Data were analyzed with post hoc Tukey HSD test (p<0.05). Optimal coating density for iMatrix-411 was 8 μg/cm2. Exposure of MDPC-23 cells to iMatrix-411 in either non-PS or TCPS significantly enhanced proliferative activity. iMatrix-411 elevated ALP activity in both types of culture plates. iMatrix-411 significantly increased the mRNA level of OCN, BSP, OPN, ALP, and DMP-1. Meanwhile, it enhanced the expression of several integrin subunits: ITGA1, ITGA5, ITGAV, ITGB1, and ITGB5. Finally, iMatrix-411 also accelerated the mineralization at day eight in Non-PS. The results indicated iMatrix-411 stimulates proliferation and favours differentiation of odontoblast-like cells.
Independent Predictors of 6-Month Mortality in Patients Successfully Resuscitated for Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: Observational Retrospective Single Center Study
Authors: Sinkovič Andreja , Markota Andrej , Marinšek Martin , Svenšek Franc
Published: May 2018

Background. Mortality of admitted out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients is decreasing. Our aim was to evaluate independent predictors of six-month mortality of successfully resuscitated OHCA patients. Methods. We reviewed retrospectively the records of 119 OHCA patients, admitted in 2011 to 2013 (73.1% men, mean age 64 ± 13,5 years) and registered their clinical data, treatments, and predictors of 6-month mortality. Results. Six-month mortality of admitted OHCA patients was 47.5% and was associated significantly with older age (67.7 ± 12.9 years versus 59.9 ± 13 years, p<0.05), mechanical ventilation, longer time of resuscitation (24.6 ± 18.9 sec versus 8.9 ± 8.4 sec, p<0.05), use of vasopressors (87.3% versus 62.5%, p<0.05), and increased serum lactate (8.1 ± 3.9 mmol/l versus 4.5 ± 3.6 mmol/l, p<0.05) but less likely with prior shockable rhythm (38% versus 73.2%, p<0.05), percutaneous coronary intervention (27% versus 55.4%, p<0.05), achieved target temperatures 32°–34°C of mild therapeutic hypothermia (47.6% versus 71.4%, p<0.05), acute coronary syndromes (31.7% versus 51.8%, p<0.05), and neurological recovery (4.8% versus 69.6%, p<0.05) when compared to survivors. Neurological outcome was most significant early independent predictor of 6-month mortality (OR 50.47; 95% CI 6.74 to 377.68; p<0.001). Conclusions. Postcardiac arrest brain injury most significantly and independently predicted 6-month mortality in hospitalized OHCA patients.
Neuroendocrine Factors and Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: An Affair to Remember
Authors: Solomon Iulia , Voiculescu Vlad Mihai , Caruntu Constantin , Lupu Mihai , Popa Alexandra , Ilie Mihaela Adriana , Albulescu Radu , Caruntu Ana , Tanase Cristiana , Constantin Carolina , Neagu Monica , Boda Daniel
Published: May 2018

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies. Therefore, the major goal of cancer treatment is inhibition of tumor cell growth and of metastasis development. In order to choose the best management option for HNSCC patients, we need to identify reliable prognostic factors and to develop new molecular techniques in order to obtain a better understanding of therapy resistance. By acting as neurohormones, neurotransmitters, or neuromodulators, the neuroendocrine factors are able to signal the maintenance of physiological homeostasis or progression to malignant disease. Certain neuropeptides possess strong antitumor properties acting as tumor suppressors and immunomodulators, providing additional benefits for future potential therapeutic strategies. In light of the current understanding, cancer starts as a localized disease that can be effectively treated if discovered on proper time. Unfortunately, more than often cancer cells migrate to the surrounding tissues generating distant metastases, thus making the prognosis and survival in this stage much worse. As cellular migration is mandatory for tumor invasion and metastasis development, searching for alternate controllers of these processes, such as the neuroendocrine factors, it is an active tremendous task.
Telomere Length and Lung Cancer Mortality among Heavy Smokers
Authors: Doherty Jennifer A. , Grieshober Laurie , Houck John R. , Barnett Matthew J. , Tapsoba Jean De Dieu , Thornquist Mark , Wang Ching-Yun , Goodman Gary E. , Chen Chu
Published: May 2018

Background: Accumulating evidence suggests that short telomere length is associated with increased overall mortality, but the relationship with cancer mortality is less clear. We examined whether telomere length (global, and chromosome arm 5p- and 13q-specific) is associated with lung cancer mortality among cases from the β-Carotene and Retinol Efficacy Trial of heavy smokers.

Methods: Telomere length was measured on average 6 years before diagnosis for 788 lung cancer cases. Adjusted Cox proportional hazards models of all-cause and lung cancer–specific mortality were assessed for lung cancer overall and by histotype.

Results: Short telomere length was associated with increased mortality for small cell lung cancer (SCLC), particularly stage III/IV SCLC [HR and 95% confidence interval for shortest vs. longest telomere length tertile: 3.32 (1.78–6.21)]. Associations were strongest for those randomized to the active intervention and when telomere length was measured ≤5 years before diagnosis. All-cause mortality patterns were similar. Short chromosome 5p telomere length was suggestively associated with lung cancer mortality, but there was no association with chromosome 13q telomere length.

Conclusions: Our large prospective study suggests that among heavy smokers who developed lung cancer, short prediagnosis telomere length is associated with increased risk of death from SCLC.

Impact: This is the first study to examine telomere length and mortality in lung cancer cases by histotype. If the association between short telomere length and SCLC mortality is replicated, elucidation of mechanisms through which telomere length influences survival for this highly aggressive cancer may inform more effective use of telomere-targeted therapeutics. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 27(7); 829–37. ©2018 AACR.
Solvent-Extracted Wool Wax: Thermotropic Properties and Skin Efficacy
Authors: Barba Albanell Clara , Carrer Victor , Marti Meritxell , Iglesias Jordi , Iglesias Joan , Coderch Luisa
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Wool wax is a soft, yellow, waxy substance that is secreted by the sebaceous glands of sheep. The purpose of wool wax is to waterproof and protect the wool. Chemically, wool wax is a complex mixture of esters, fatty acids, and alcohols. Wool waxes with different prop­erties can be obtained by following different extraction methodologies. Methods: Two differently extracted wool waxes are compared in this study. Their effectiveness in mimicking the properties of skin lipids is evaluated. In addition, the lipid compositions and thermotropic behaviours of the 2 differently extracted wool waxes were evaluated. Results: The solvent-extracted wool wax was found to have a significantly higher polar lipid content than that of the water-extracted wool wax. This increase in the polar character of the solvent-extracted wool wax was also demonstrated by increased values of transition and degradation temperatures in the differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analyses, respectively. In addition, solvent-extracted wool wax demonstrated the ability to reinforce stratum corneum lipids, which led to improved skin barrier function. Conclusions: The suitability of the solvent-extracted wool wax for application in the preparation of cosmetics and dermatological products was demonstrated.
Rising above It: Status Ambivalence in Older Adults
Authors: Robertson Deirdre A. , Weiss David
Published: May 2018

Background: Social status is the standing of a person or group in the social hierarchy, and is perceived to change across the life span from low social status in early life, to peak in midlife, and to a decline thereafter. As threats to subjective social status are known to be detrimental to individuals’ health, it is important to better understand how older adults perceive themselves and others in terms of age-related social status. Objective: We examined status ambivalence – the potential discrepancy between how older adults’ perceive social status for themselves compared to older adults in general. Method: Study 1 used qualitative data from 37 semi-structured interviews with older adults to assess perceptions of social status. Study 2 used quantitative survey data from 114 older adults who completed explicit and implicit measures of social status. Results: Study 1 (n = 37, meanage = 71.72, SDage = 5.69; 81.1% women) provided preliminary evidence for status ambivalence such that older adults reported unequivocal low social status for other older adults but a more ambivalent perception of their own social status. Study 2 (n = 114, meanage = 64.32, SDage = 8.98, 57.9% women) compared implicit and explicit measures of social status revealing that older adults consistently perceive older adults to have low social status but again show a more ambivalent perception of their own social status. Conclusion: We discuss status ambivalence as a potential protective mechanism in the context of negative societal perceptions of age-related social status that may be important for well-being in later life.
Transcriptome Profile Analysis of Mechanisms of Black and White Plumage Determination in Black-Bone Chicken
Authors: Yu Shigang , Wang Gang , Liao Juan , Tang Mei , Sun Wenxing
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Melanin is a major and ubiquitous component of plumage colouration, and patterns of melanin pigmentation in birds are extremely varied. However, the molecular mechanism of pigmentation in avian plumage is still largely unknown. Methods: To elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of black and white plumage, this study takes advantage of high-throughput sequencing technology to compare differences in the transcriptome between black and white chicken feather bulbs. In total, we constructed six cDNA libraries from black (Group B) and white (Group W) feather bulbs in the dorsal plumage of Muchuan black-boned chickens. Results: A comparison between Groups B and W revealed 61 differentially expressed genes, with 47 displaying higher, and 14 displaying lower, levels of expression in white feather bulbs. Our results revealed a set of candidate genes and two potential metabolic pathways involved in black-bone chicken plumage melanogenesis. These include four homeobox genes (HOXB9, HOXC8, HOXA9, and HOXC 9), two glutathione (GSH) metabolism-related genes (CHAC1 and GPX3), and the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signalling pathway. Two known genes, TYR and MITF, were also shown to play a role in melanin formation. Conclusion: our data provide a valuable resource for discovering genes important in plumage melanin formation and will help further elucidate the molecular mechanisms for black and white plumage.
Modulation of Mast Cell Toll-Like Receptor 3 Expression and Cytokines Release by Histamine
Authors: Xie Guogang , Wang Feng , Peng Xia , Liang Yuting , Yang Haiwei , Li  Li
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: As a major inflammatory molecule released from mast cell activation, histamine has been reported to regulate TLRs expression and cytokine production in inflammatory cells present in the microenvironment. In this study, we determined the ability of histamine to modulate TLRs expression and cytokine production in mast cells. Methods: HMC-1 and P815 cells were exposed to various concentrations of histamine in the presence or absence of histamine antagonist for 2, 6 or 16 h. The effect of histamine on the expression of TLR3 protein and mRNA was analyzed by flow cytometry、 RT-PCR and immunofluorescent microscopy. Furthermore, we also examined the effect of histamine on the secretion of MCP-1 and IL-13 from mast cells by ELISA. Results: The amplification of TLR3 mRNA and protein expression in mast cells was observed after incubation with histamine, which was accompanied by increasing secretion of IL-13 and MCP-1 via H1 receptor. The signaling pathways of PI3K/ Akt and Erk1/2/MAPK contributed to these induction effects. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that histamine up-regulates the expression of TLR3 and secretion of IL-13 and MCP-1 in mast cells, thus identifying a new mechanism for the histamine inducing allergic response.
Integrated Analysis of MiRNA and Genes Associated with Meat Quality Reveals that Gga-MiR-140-5p Affects Intramuscular Fat Deposition in Chickens
Authors: Zhang Meng , Li Dong-Hua , Li Fang , Sun Jun-Wei , Jiang Rui-Rui , Li Zhuan-Jian , Han Rui-Li , Li Guo-Xi , Liu Xiao-Jun , Kang Xiang-Tao , Sun Gui-Rong
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Poultry meat quality is affected by many factors, among which intramuscular fat (IMF) is predominant. IMF content affects the tenderness, juiciness, and favor of chicken. An increasing number of studies are focusing on the functions of microRNAs (miRNAs) during the adipogenic process. However, little is known about miRNAs associated with poultry IMF deposition, especially intramuscular adipocyte differentiation. Methods: The IMF content of two physiological stages was measured, and miRNA-Seq and RNA-Seq data were integrated and analyzed. A chicken intramuscular adipocyte cell differentiation model was constructed. A luciferase reporter assay, miRNA overexpression, and Oil Red O staining were used to confirm the targets of gga-miR-140-5p. Results: Our results showed that late-laying-period hens, which had a higher IMF content, exhibited lower global expression levels of miRNAs than juvenile hens. A total of 104 differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs were identified between the two groups. Integrated analysis of differentially expressed genes and DE miRNAs identified a total of 378 miRNA-mRNA pairs. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that these intersecting genes are involved in ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor signaling pathway, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and fatty acid elongation and degradation pathways. Furthermore, we demonstrated that gga-miR-140-5p promoted intramuscular adipocyte differentiation via targeting retinoid X receptor gamma. Conclusion: Our findings may contribute to a more thorough understanding of chicken IMF deposition and the improvement of poultry meat quality.
Sulfotanshinone IIA Sodium Ameliorates Glucose Peritoneal Dialysis Solution-Induced Human Peritoneal Mesothelial Cell Injury via Suppression of ASK1-P38-mediated Oxidative Stress
Authors: Zhou Yao , He Weiming , Sun Wei , Zhou Zhanwei , Sun Minjie , Xia Ping , Li Wei , Zheng Min , Zhang Lu , Ni Jie , Gao Kun
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Long-term use of high-glucose peritoneal dialysis solution (PDS) induces peritoneal mesothelial cell (PMC) injury, peritoneal dysfunction, and peritoneal dialysis (PD) failure in patients with end-stage renal disease. How to preserve PMCs in PD is a major challenge for nephrologists worldwide. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the efficacy and mechanisms of sulfotanshinone IIA sodium (Tan IIa) in ameliorating high-glucose PDS-induced human PMC injury. Methods: The human PMC line HMrSV5 was incubated with 4.25% PDS in vitro to mimic the high-glucose conditions in PD. Cellular viability was measured by Cell Counting Kit 8. Generation of superoxide and reactive oxygen species (ROS) was assessed using a Total ROS/Superoxide Detection Kit. Oxidative modification of protein was evaluated by OxyBlot Protein Oxidation Detection Kit. TUNEL (dT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling) assay and DAPI (4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) staining were used to evaluate apoptosis. Western blot analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy and mechanisms of Tan IIa. Results: Tan IIa protected PMCs against PDS-induced injury as evidenced by alleviating changes in morphology and loss of cell viability. Consistent with their antioxidant properties, N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and Tan IIa suppressed superoxide and ROS production, protein oxidation, and apoptosis elicited by PDS. Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1)-p38 signaling was activated by PDS. Both Tan IIa and NAC suppressed ASK1 and p38 phosphorylation elicited by PDS. Moreover, genetic downregulation of ASK1 ameliorated cell injury and inhibited the phosphorylation of p38 and activation of caspase 3. Conclusion: Tan IIa protects PMCs against PDS-induced oxidative injury through suppression of ASK1-p38 signaling.
LncRNA MT1JP Suppresses Gastric Cancer Cell Proliferation and Migration Through MT1JP/MiR-214-3p/RUNX3 Axis
Authors: Xu Ying , Zhang Guohua , Zou Chen , Zhang Heng , Gong Zhigang , Wang Weixin , Ma Gui , Jiang Pengcheng , Zhang Wenbo
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Emerging evidence points towards an important role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the tumorigenesis and progression of gastric cancer (GC). MT1JP has recently been reported to be differentially expressed and act as a tumor suppressor in different tumors, with its mechanisms not fully understood in GC. Methods: RT-qPCR was used to detect the expression of MT1JP, miR-214-3p and RUNX3 in tumor tissues and cell lines of GC. The CCK-8 assay, colony formation, Transwell assay and wound healing assay were used to evaluate the proliferation, invasion and migration of GC cells, respectively. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay were performed to disclose the interaction between MT1JP, miR-214-3p and RUNX3. Western blot and immunofluorescence were applied to assess the downstream signaling of RUNX3. Results: MT1JP was found downregulated in GC tissues and cells. Low expression of MT1JP was significantly correlated with advanced TNM stage and lymphatic metastasis. The expression of plasma MT1JP was also found decreased in GC patients compared to healthy controls, with an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.649 for diagnosis of GC. Gain- and loss-of-function of MT1JP revealed that MT1JP functioned as a ceRNA for miR-214-3p to facilitate RUNX3 expression and then upregulated p21 and Bim levels suppressing GC cell proliferation, invasion and migration, and promoting apoptosis. Furthermore, MT1JP overexpression suppressed tumor growth and inhibited the expression of miR-214-3p and proliferation antigen Ki-67, but increased the expression of RUNX3, p21 and Bim in vivo. Conclusions: Our results suggest a potential ceRNA regulatory network involving MT1JP regulates RUNX3 expression by competitively binding endogenous miR-214-3p in tumorigenesis and progression of GC. This mechanism may contribute to a better understanding of GC pathogenesis and provide potential therapeutic strategy for GC.