bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protection Provided by an Encapsulated Live Attenuated ΔabcBAStrain of Brucella ovis against Experimental Challenge in a Murine Model
Authors: Silva Ana Patrícia C. , Macêdo Auricélio A. , Silva Teane M. A. , Ximenes Luana C. A. , Brandão Humberto M. , Paixão Tatiane A. , Santos Renato L.
Published: May 2015

This study aimed to evaluate theBrucella ovisΔabcBAstrain as a vaccine candidate in the murine model. BALB/c mice were subcutaneously or intraperitoneally immunized with a single dose or three doses of theB. ovisΔabcBAstrain and then were challenged with wild-typeB. ovis. Single or multiple immunizations provided only mild protection, with significantly smaller numbers of wild-typeB. ovisCFU in the livers of immunized mice but not in the spleens. Encapsulation ofB. ovisΔabcBAsignificantly improved protection against experimental challenges in both BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice. Furthermore, immunization with encapsulatedB. ovisΔabcBAmarkedly prevented lesions in the spleens and livers of experimentally challenged mice. These results demonstrated that the encapsulatedB. ovisΔabcBAstrain confers protection to mice; therefore, this strain has potential as a vaccine candidate for rams.
Characteristics of the Vδ2 CDR3 Sequence of Peripheral γδ T Cells in Patients with Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Identification of a New Tuberculosis-Related Antigen Peptide
Authors: Ding Yan , Ma Fei , Wang Zhaohua , Li Baiqing
Published: May 2015

Antigen-specific γδ T cells may play an important role in the immune response toMycobacterium tuberculosis. However, little is known about the characteristics of the length distribution of the δ2-chain complementarity determining region 3 (δ2 CDR3) of the γδ T-cell receptor (TCR) in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) on a large scale. In addition,M. tuberculosis-activated γδ T cells potentially inhibit intracellular mycobacterial growth, but phosphoantigen-activated γδ T cells do not. Only a fewM. tuberculosis-related antigen peptides or proteins that are recognized by γδ TCR have been identified. Twenty-four healthy donors (HDs) and 27 TB patients were included in the present study. The gene-scanning technique found that the δ2 CDR3 length distribution patterns of γδ TCR in TB patients were perturbed, and each pattern included different predominant CDR3 sequences. The predominant δ2 CDR3 sequences of γδ TCRs, which originated from TB patients and HD γδ T cells that were stimulated byM. tuberculosisheat resistance antigen (Mtb-HAg), were used as probes to screen peptides recognized by γδ TCR using a phage display library. We identified four peptides that bound to the predominant δ2 CDR3 fragments and showed homology toM. tuberculosisgenes in a BLAST search. Notably, one peptide was related toM. tuberculosisH37Rv (QHIPKPP), and this fragment was confirmed as a ligand for the γδ TCR. Two fragments, Ag1 and Ag2, activated γδ T cells from HD or TB patients. In summary, the δ2 CDR3 lineage of TB patients apparently drifts, and the predominant δ2 CDR3 sequence that recognizesM. tuberculosismay exhibit specificity. The identifiedM. tuberculosis-related antigen peptides may be used as vaccines or adjuvants for protective immunity againstM. tuberculosis.
Molecular Diagnosis of Abdominal Armillifer grandis Pentastomiasis in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Tappe Dennis , Sulyok Mihály , Rózsa Lajos , Muntau Birgit , Haeupler Alexandra , Bodó Imre , Hardi Richard
Published: May 2015

Pentastomiasis is an emerging snake-borne parasitic zoonosis in the tropics. We describe a molecular and morphological study to diagnose a cluster of asymptomatic abdominal human infections caused by
Armillifer grandis.
The findings may indicate a silent epidemic in a rural area where severe symptomatic ocular cases with the same parasite species have recently surfaced. Molecular diagnostics are of increasing importance when patient material from remote areas cannot be thoroughly examined locally for logistic reasons.
Human Cytomegalovirus pUL47 Modulates Tegumentation and Capsid Accumulation at the Viral Assembly Complex
Authors: Cappadona Ilaria , Villinger Clarissa , Schutzius Gabi , Mertens Thomas , von Einem Jens
Published: May 2015

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) tegument protein pUL47 is an interaction partner of pUL48 and highly conserved among herpesviruses. It is closely associated with the capsid and has an important function early in infection. Here, we report a specific role of pUL47 in the tegumentation of capsids in the cytoplasm. A newly generated mutant virus (TB-47stop), in which expression of pUL47 is blocked, exhibited a severe impairment in cell-to-cell spread and release of infectivity from infected cells. Ultrastructural analysis of TB-47stop-infected cells clearly showed cytoplasmic accumulations of nonenveloped capsids that were only partially tegumented, indicating that these capsids failed to complete tegumentation. Nevertheless, these accumulations were positive for HCMV inner tegument proteins pp150 and pUL48, suggesting that their attachment to capsids occurs independently of pUL47. Despite these morphological alterations, fully enveloped virus particles were found in the extracellular space and at the viral assembly complex (vAC) of TB-47stop-infected cells, indicating that pUL47 is not essential for the generation of virions. We confirmed findings that incorporation of pUL48 into virions is impaired in the absence of pUL47. Interestingly, pUL47 exhibited a strong nuclear localization in transfected cells, whereas it was found exclusively at the vAC in the context of virus infection. Colocalization of pUL47 and pUL48 at the vAC is consistent with their interaction. We also found a shift to a more nuclear localization of pUL47 when the expression of pUL48 was reduced. Summarizing our results, we hypothesize that pUL48 directs pUL47 to the vAC to promote tegumentation and secondary envelopment of capsids.

IMPORTANCE
Generation of infectious HCMV particles requires an organized and multistep process involving the action of several viral and cellular proteins as well as protein-protein interactions. A better understanding of these processes is important for understanding the biology of HCMV and may help to identify targets for antiviral intervention. Here, we identified tegument protein pUL47 to function in tegumentation and proper trafficking of capsids during late phases of infection. Although pUL47 is not essential for the generation and release of infectious virions, its absence led to massive accumulations of partially tegumented capsids at the cell periphery. Detection of pUL48 at these accumulations indicated a pUL47-independent attachment of pUL48 to the capsid. On the other hand, localization of pUL47 to the vAC during infection appeared to be dependent on tegument protein pUL48, which suggests an intricate interplay of these proteins for normal generation of infectious virus progeny.
Adaptive Mutations That Occurred during Circulation in Humans of H1N1 Influenza Virus in the 2009 Pandemic Enhance Virulence in Mice
Authors: Otte A. , Sauter M. , Daxer M. A. , McHardy A. C. , Klingel K. , Gabriel G.
Published: May 2015

During the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic, infection attack rates were particularly high among young individuals who suffered from pneumonia with occasional death. Moreover, previously reported determinants of mammalian adaptation and pathogenicity were not present in 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza A viruses. Thus, it was proposed that unknown viral factors might have contributed to disease severity in humans. In this study, we performed a comparative analysis of two clinical 2009 pandemic H1N1 strains that belong to the very early and later phases of the pandemic. We identified mutations in the viral hemagglutinin (HA) and the nucleoprotein (NP) that occurred during pandemic progression and mediate increased virulence in mice. Lethal disease outcome correlated with elevated viral replication in the alveolar epithelium, increased proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine responses, pneumonia, and lymphopenia in mice. These findings show that viral mutations that have occurred during pandemic circulation among humans are associated with severe disease in mice.

IMPORTANCE
In this study, novel determinants of 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza pathogenicity were identified in the viral hemagglutinin (HA) and the nucleoprotein (NP) genes. In contrast to highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses, increased virulence in mice did not correlate with enhanced polymerase activity but with reduced activity. Lethal 2009 pandemic H1N1 infection in mice correlated with lymphopenia and severe pneumonia. These studies suggest that molecular mechanisms that mediate 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza pathogenicity are distinct from those that mediate avian influenza virus pathogenicity in mice.
Roles of Phosphorylation of the Nucleocapsid Protein of Mumps Virus in Regulating Viral RNA Transcription and Replication
Authors: Zengel James , Pickar Adrian , Xu Pei , Lin Alita , He Biao
Published: May 2015

Mumps virus (MuV) is a paramyxovirus with a negative-sense nonsegmented RNA genome. The viral RNA genome is encapsidated by the nucleocapsid protein (NP) to form the ribonucleoprotein (RNP), which serves as a template for transcription and replication. In this study, we investigated the roles of phosphorylation sites of NP in MuV RNA synthesis. Using radioactive labeling, we first demonstrated that NP was phosphorylated in MuV-infected cells. Using both liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and
in silico
modeling, we identified nine putative phosphorylated residues within NP. We mutated these nine residues to alanine. Mutation of the serine residue at position 439 to alanine (S439A) was found to reduce the phosphorylation of NP in transfected cells by over 90%. The effects of these mutations on the MuV minigenome system were examined. The S439A mutant was found to have higher activity, four mutants had lower activity, and four mutants had similar activity compared to wild-type NP. MuV containing the S439A mutation had 90% reduced phosphorylation of NP and enhanced viral RNA synthesis and viral protein expression at early time points after infection, indicating that S439 is the major phosphorylation site of NP and its phosphorylation plays an important role in downregulating viral RNA synthesis.

IMPORTANCE
Mumps virus (MuV), a paramyxovirus, is an important human pathogen that is reemerging in human populations. Nucleocapsid protein (NP) of MuV is essential for viral RNA synthesis. We have identified the major phosphorylation site of NP. We have found that phosphorylation of NP plays a critical role in regulating viral RNA synthesis. The work will lead to a better understanding of viral RNA synthesis and possible novel targets for antiviral drug development.
LMP1-Induced Sumoylation Influences the Maintenance of Epstein-Barr Virus Latency through KAP1
Authors: Bentz Gretchen L. , Moss Charles Randall , Whitehurst Christopher B. , Moody Cary A. , Pagano Joseph S.
Published: May 2015

As a herpesvirus, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) establishes a latent infection that can periodically undergo reactivation, resulting in lytic replication and the production of new infectious virus. Latent membrane protein-1 (LMP1), the principal viral oncoprotein, is a latency-associated protein implicated in regulating viral reactivation and the maintenance of latency. We recently found that LMP1 hijacks the SUMO-conjugating enzyme Ubc9 via its C-terminal activating region-3 (CTAR3) and induces the sumoylation of cellular proteins. Because protein sumoylation can promote transcriptional repression, we hypothesized that LMP1-induced protein sumoylation induces the repression of EBV lytic promoters and helps maintain the viral genome in its latent state. We now show that with inhibition of LMP1-induced protein sumoylation, the latent state becomes less stable or leakier in EBV-transformed lymphoblastoid cell lines. The cells are also more sensitive to viral reactivation induced by irradiation, which results in the increased production and release of infectious virus, as well as increased susceptibility to ganciclovir treatment. We have identified a target of LMP1-mediated sumoylation that contributes to the maintenance of latency in this context: KRAB-associated protein-1 (KAP1). LMP1 CTAR3-mediated sumoylation regulates the function of KAP1. KAP1 also binds to EBV OriLyt and immediate early promoters in a CTAR3-dependent manner, and inhibition of sumoylation processes abrogates the binding of KAP1 to these promoters. These data provide an additional line of evidence that supports our findings that CTAR3 is a distinct functioning regulatory region of LMP1 and confirm that LMP1-induced sumoylation may help stabilize the maintenance of EBV latency.

IMPORTANCE
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) latent membrane protein-1 (LMP1) plays an important role in the maintenance of viral latency. Previously, we documented that LMP1 targets cellular proteins to be modified by a ubiquitin-like protein (SUMO). We have now identified a function for this LMP1-induced modification of cellular proteins in the maintenance of EBV latency. Because latently infected cells have to undergo viral reactivation in order to be vulnerable to antiviral drugs, these findings identify a new way to increase the rate of EBV reactivation, which increases cell susceptibility to antiviral therapies.
K1 and K15 of Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Are Partial Functional Homologues of Latent Membrane Protein 2A of Epstein-Barr Virus
Authors: Steinbrück Lisa , Gustems Montse , Medele Stephanie , Schulz Thomas F. , Lutter Dominik , Hammerschmidt Wolfgang
Published: May 2015

The human herpesviruses Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) are associated with Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) and Primary effusion lymphomas (PEL), respectively, which are B cell malignancies that originate from germinal center B cells. PEL cells but also a quarter of EBV-positive HL tumor cells do not express the genuine B cell receptor (BCR), a situation incompatible with survival of normal B cells. EBV encodes
LMP2A
, one of EBV's viral latent membrane proteins, which likely replaces the BCR's survival signaling in HL. Whether KSHV encodes a viral BCR mimic that contributes to oncogenesis is not known because an experimental model of KSHV-mediated B cell transformation is lacking. We addressed this uncertainty with mutant EBVs encoding the KSHV genes
K1
or
K15
in lieu of
LMP2A
and infected primary BCR-negative (BCR
−
) human B cells with them. We confirmed that the survival of BCR
–
B cells and their proliferation depended on an active LMP2A signal. Like LMP2A, the expression of
K1
and
K15
led to the survival of BCR
−
B cells prone to apoptosis, supported their proliferation, and regulated a similar set of cellular target genes.
K1
and
K15
encoded proteins appear to have noncomplementing, redundant functions in this model, but our findings suggest that both KSHV proteins can replace LMP2A's key activities contributing to the survival, activation and proliferation of BCR
–
PEL cells
in vivo
.

IMPORTANCE
Several herpesviruses encode oncogenes that are receptor-like proteins. Often, they are constitutively active providing important functions to the latently infected cells. LMP2A of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is such a receptor that mimics an activated B cell receptor, BCR. K1 and K15, related receptors of Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) expressed in virus-associated tumors, have less obvious functions. We found in infection experiments that both viral receptors of KSHV can replace LMP2A and deliver functions similar to the endogenous BCR. K1, K15, and LMP2A also control the expression of a related set of cellular genes in primary human B cells, the target cells of EBV and KSHV. The observed phenotypes, as well as the known characteristics of these genes, argue for their contributions to cellular survival, B cell activation, and proliferation. Our findings provide one possible explanation for the tumorigenicity of KSHV, which poses a severe problem in immunocompromised patients.
Forehead necrosis, one of the many facades of giant cell arteritis
Authors: Palmer Vanessa Elizabeth , Young-Zvandasara Tafadzwa , Vusirikala Bharati
Published: May 2015

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is known to be a potentially blinding condition. Swift diagnosis can aid in preventing permanent visual loss and, more importantly, protect the contralateral eye. Classical symptoms include jaw claudication, myalgia and new-onset headache. We present two cases of GCA with scalp necrosis, a rare feature associated with this condition. In the first case, forehead necrosis preceded the visual symptoms by 2 days. In the second case it was noted a few weeks after the patient presented with profound unilateral loss of vision. Scalp necrosis is an important sign that should prompt those approached by these patients to consider GCA.
Use of the Impella 2.5 left ventricular assist device in a patient with cardiogenic shock secondary to takotsubo cardiomyopathy
Authors: Rashed Ahmed , Won Sekon , Saad Marwan , Schreiber Theodore
Published: May 2015

We report a case of cardiogenic shock, believed to be secondary to stress-induced cardiomyopathy, managed by an Impella 2.5 assist device. Apical ballooning pattern was evident on left ventriculogram with no significant coronary artery disease on coronary angiography. Cardiogenic shock was initially managed medically with inotropes and vasopressors, but because the patient was clinically deteriorating, an Impella 2.5 left ventricular assist device was implanted. Remarkable recovery occurred within 48 h of implantation with significant increase in ejection fraction and only minimal residual apical hypokinesis observed on repeat ventriculogram.
A middle-aged man presenting with unexplained mucosal erosions and progressive dyspnoea
Authors: Healy W J , Peters S , Nana-Sinkam S P
Published: May 2015

Paraneoplastic pemphigus (PNP) is a rare syndrome driven by antibodies (IgG) binding to desmogleins and other epidermal proteins leading to skin erosions. In rare instances, these same IgG proteins may also target the bronchial mucosa leading to an irreversible fibrotic reaction within the epithelium and subsequent obstructive lung disease. A 51-year-old man presented to the emergency department with 2–3-month history of dyspnoea as well as oral and genital ulcerations and inguinal lymphadenopathy. The ulcerations were biopsied and proven to be consistent with pemphigus. Subsequent inguinal lymph node biopsy implicated the hyaline-vascular variant of Castleman's disease (CD), as the primary cause of the patient's pemphigus. The patient underwent pulmonary function testing that demonstrated severe airflow obstruction. The patient was diagnosed with PNP and associated bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS). He was treated with rituximab for his CD, and oral and inhaled corticosteroids along with azithromycin for his BOS.
Hunter syndrome with its typical heart: a close mimic to rheumatic heart
Authors: Madireddi Jagadesh , P Sarada , Shetty R K , Prabhu Mukhyaprana , K M Girish
Published: May 2015

A 24-year-old man presented with New York Heart Association (NYHA) grade 3 dyspnoea. He appeared dwarf-like with coarse facial features. General examination revealed cubitus valgus, claw hand, genu valgus, hallus valgus and equinovarus deformity of the foot. Systemic examination revealed cardiomegaly, a pansystolic mitral regurgitation (MR) murmur, hepatosplenomegaly and a normal IQ. Examination suggested multisystem disease involving the dermatological, musculoskeletal, cardiac and gastrointestinal system. Echocardiography showed thickened mitral and aortic valves, and moderate MR. We considered this as a storage disorder, particularly the mucopolysaccharidosis, because of its typical cardiac involvement. Further evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of Hunter syndrome. The patient was considered for enzyme replacement therapy, following which he improved. This rare disease must be considered whenever a physician encounters a young patient with multisystem involvement. In view of the availability of disease-specific therapy, an early diagnosis and prompt treatment with a multidisciplinary approach can improve the quality of life of these patients.
Thinking outside the box: a middle-aged man with new-onset dyspnoea on exertion and pedal oedema
Authors: Rochlani Yogita M , Pai Vidya B , Lataifeh Abdel Rahman M , Bartter Thaddeus
Published: May 2015

We describe a diagnostic dilemma in a middle-aged man presenting with dyspnoea and bilateral pedal oedema who had been diagnosed with right heart failure based on clinical evidence. The evaluation for aetiology eventually led to discovery of an unusual extrathoracic cause, a left-to-right communication in the renal vasculature. Renal arteriovenous fistulae are rare and can be congenital, acquired or idiopathic. A left-to-right shunt typically presents with high-output cardiac failure involving the left and right sides of the heart. An atypical feature of this case was the finding of overt right heart failure in the setting of a normal left heart. Such a presentation has only been described in a few isolated case reports. Diagnostic approaches include CT angiography and cardiac catheterisation for haemodynamic measurements. The primary treatment options for arteriovenous fistulae are medical management, arterial embolisation and surgical repair.
Genome-wide association study of perioperative myocardial infarction after coronary artery bypass surgery
Authors: Kertai Miklos D , Li Yi-Ju , Li Yen-Wei , Ji Yunqi , Alexander John , Newman Mark F , Smith Peter K , Joseph Diane , Mathew Joseph P , Podgoreanu Mihai V
Published: May 2015

Objectives

Identification of patient subpopulations susceptible to develop myocardial infarction (MI) or, conversely, those displaying either intrinsic cardioprotective phenotypes or highly responsive to protective interventions remain high-priority knowledge gaps. We sought to identify novel common genetic variants associated with perioperative MI in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting using genome-wide association methodology.

Setting

107 secondary and tertiary cardiac surgery centres across the USA.

Participants

We conducted a stage I genome-wide association study (GWAS) in 1433 ethnically diverse patients of both genders (112 cases/1321 controls) from the Genetics of Myocardial Adverse Outcomes and Graft Failure (GeneMAGIC) study, and a stage II analysis in an expanded population of 2055 patients (225 cases/1830 controls) combined from the GeneMAGIC and Duke Perioperative Genetics and Safety Outcomes (PEGASUS) studies. Patients undergoing primary non-emergent coronary bypass grafting were included.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome variable was perioperative MI, defined as creatine kinase MB isoenzyme (CK-MB) values ≥10× upper limit of normal during the first postoperative day, and not attributable to preoperative MI. Secondary outcomes included postoperative CK-MB as a quantitative trait, or a dichotomised phenotype based on extreme quartiles of the CK-MB distribution.

Results

Following quality control and adjustment for clinical covariates, we identified 521 single nucleotide polymorphisms in the stage I GWAS analysis. Among these, 8 common variants in 3 genes or intergenic regions met p<10−5in stage II. A secondary analysis using CK-MB as a quantitative trait (minimum p=1.26×10−3for rs609418), or a dichotomised phenotype based on extreme CK-MB values (minimum p=7.72×10−6for rs4834703) supported these findings. Pathway analysis revealed that genes harbouring top-scoring variants cluster in pathways of biological relevance to extracellular matrix remodelling, endoplasmic reticulum-to-Golgi transport and inflammation.

Conclusions

Using a two-stage GWAS and pathway analysis, we identified and prioritised several potential susceptibility loci for perioperative MI.
Lameness in cattle 2. Managing claw health through appropriate trimming techniques
Authors: Mahendran Sophie , Bell Nick
Published: May 2015

Bovine lameness is a major challenge facing the dairy industry, with negative impacts on milk production, fertility and longevity of animals. Our understanding of the aetiopathogenesis of claw horn lesions has evolved, leading to alterations in the way we approach routine claw trimming, such as the number and timings of foot inspections. While there have been few changes to the basic principles of trimming that were first described by Toussaint Raven (1985), it is now clearly recognised that application of poor and inappropriate techniques can cause iatrogenic lameness. This article, the second in a two‐part series on lameness, reviews the evidence and rationale of claw trimming techniques, for the management of claw horn health in dairy cows and heifers. The first article (Maxwell and others 2015) discussed recent research on lameness.
Continuing professional development: learning that leads to change in individual and collective clinical practice
Authors: May S. A. , Kinnison T.
Published: May 2015

The lack of effectiveness of traditional models of continuing professional development is increasingly recognised. While they can lead to increased knowledge of participants, research suggests that there is a general failure to produce meaningful and sustained changes in clinician behaviours. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons’ (RCVS) new individual outcomes‐focused approach to delivery of continuing professional development (CPD) through the reflective accounts of participant experiences. Content analysis of 12 summaries of their learning, produced by early pioneers of the Professional Key Skills (PKS) Module of the RCVS Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice, revealed that the benefits of the PKS‐related professional development is best understood through ‘a framework of ‘stakeholder’ dynamics’, with impact and behavioural change at the individual participant level having an effect on practice team behaviours, leading to patient, owner and business benefits. It can be concluded that, at least for these early pioneers, this new model for CPD has resulted in changes that have gone beyond knowledge accumulation to changed practitioner behaviours and recognisable patient, owner and business benefits.
Composite action in masonry walls under vertical in-plane loading: experimental results compared with predictions
Authors: Vermeltfoort A.T. , Martens D.R.W.
Published: May 2015

The results of five experimental test series on masonry walls supported by reinforced concrete beams or slabs are reported and compared to theoretical predictions of the load bearing capacity. The experiments were performed on deep masonry beams built with respectively calcium silicate and clay brick. Investigated parameters were: position of the supports, concrete beam-masonry interface, concrete beam stiffness, type of loading, and height of masonry wall and concrete beam. Based on literature, the method proposed by Davies and Ahmed as well as the method according to Eurocode 6 were used to estimate the load bearing capacity of the tested masonry walls supported by concrete beams. The method of Davies and Ahmed allows for the determination of the stresses and stress resultants in the masonry. The analysis shows that near the support an inclined compressive force acts at the bed joint, which means that a shear-compression stress state exists in the bed joint. Strength evaluation has been carried out using the Mann-Müller criterion that is adopted in Eurocode 6. Based on the test results, it may be concluded that both methods yield conservative values of the load bearing capacity, as could be expected. Before cracking a linear elastic behavior was observed, while after cracking a strut-and-tie model may be applied. To develop more accurate design models, it is recommended to investigate the post-cracking behavior in more detail.
Ensemble Monte Carlo analysis of subpicosecond transient electron transport in cubic and hexagonal silicon carbide for high power SiC-MESFET devices
Authors: Belhadji Youcef , Bouazza Benyounes , Moulahcene Fateh , Massoum Nordine
Published: May 2015

In a comparative framework, an ensemble Monte Carlo was used to elaborate the electron transport characteristics in two different silicon carbide (SiC) polytypes 3C-SiC and 4H-SiC. The simulation was performed using three-valley band structure model. These valleys are spherical and nonparabolic. The aim of this work is to forward the trajectory of 20,000 electrons under high-flied (from 50 kV to 600 kV) and high-temperature (from 200 K to 700 K). We note that this model has already been used in other studies of many Zincblende or Wurtzite semiconductors. The obtained results, compared with results found in many previous studies, show a notable drift velocity overshoot. This last appears in subpicoseconds transient regime and this overshoot is directly attached to the applied electric field and lattice temperature.
Polynomial invariants of flat virtual links using invariants of virtual links
Authors: Kim Joonoh , Lee Sang Youl
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we describe a method of making a polynomial invariant of flat virtual knots in terms of an integer labeling of the flat virtual knot diagram and an invariant of virtual links. We show that the polynomial is sometimes useful to detect non-invertibility and also to determine the virtual crossing number of a given flat virtual knot.
COCO BONDS PRICING WITH CREDIT AND EQUITY CALIBRATED FIRST-PASSAGE FIRM VALUE MODELS
Authors: BRIGO DAMIANO , GARCIA JOÃO , PEDE NICOLA
Published: May 2015

Since the beginning of the credit and liquidity crisis, financial institutions have been considering creating a convertible-bond type contract focusing on capital. Under the terms of this contract, a bond is converted into equity if the authorities deem the institution to be under-capitalized. This paper discusses this contingent capital (CoCo) bond instrument and presents a pricing methodology based on firm value models that calibrate exactly the credit term structure of the issuer either through credit default swaps or corporate bonds data. Decorrelation between the capital conversion trigger and credit quality is introduced. The equity value for the issuer is derived in closed form with a barrier option type formula. A stress test of model parameters is illustrated to account for potential model risk and the obtained prices are compared to the price obtained from a market source. Finally, a brief overview of how the instrument valuation performs compared to pure corporate bonds and a discussion involving the CDS bond basis are presented.
COHERENT CHAOS INTEREST-RATE MODELS
Authors: BRODY DORJE C. , HADJIPETRI STALA
Published: May 2015

The Wiener chaos approach to interest-rate modeling arises from the observation that in the general context of an arbitrage-free model with a Brownian filtration, the pricing kernel admits a representation in terms of the conditional variance of a square-integrable generator, which in turn admits a chaos expansion. When the expansion coefficients of the random generator factorize into multiple copies of a single function, the resulting interest-rate model is called "coherent", whereas a generic interest-rate model is necessarily "incoherent". Coherent representations are of fundamental importance because an incoherent generator can always be expressed as a linear superposition of coherent elements. This property is exploited to derive general expressions for the pricing kernel and the associated bond price and short rate processes in the case of a generic nth order chaos model, for each n ∈ ℕ. Pricing formulae for bond options and swaptions are obtained in closed form for a number of examples. An explicit representation for the pricing kernel of a generic incoherent model is then obtained by use of the underlying coherent elements. Finally, finite-dimensional realizations of coherent chaos models are investigated and we show that a class of highly tractable models can be constructed having the characteristic feature that the discount bond price is given by a piecewise-flat (simple) process.
Cilostazol attenuates murine hepatic ischemia and reperfusion injury via heme oxygenase-dependent activation of mitochondrial biogenesis
Authors: Joe Yeonsoo , Zheng Min , Kim Hyo Jeong , Uddin Md. Jamal , Kim Seul-Ki , Chen Yingqing , Park Jeongmin , Cho Gyeong Jae , Ryter Stefan W. , Chung Hun Taeg
Published: May 2015

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) can cause hepatocellular injury associated with the inflammatory response and mitochondrial dysfunction. We studied the protective effects of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor cilostazol in hepatic I/R and the roles of mitochondria and the Nrf2/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) system. Wild-type, Hmox1 −/−, or Nrf2 −/− mice were subjected to hepatic I/R in the absence or presence of cilostazol followed by measurements of liver injury. Primary hepatocytes were subjected to cilostazol with the HO-1 inhibitor ZnPP, or Nrf2-specific siRNA, followed by assessment of mitochondrial biogenesis. Preconditioning with cilostazol prior to hepatic I/R protected against hepatocellular injury and mitochondrial dysfunction. Cilostazol reduced the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, TNF-α, and liver myeloperoxidase content relative to control I/R-treated mice. In primary hepatocytes, cilostazol increased the expression of HO-1, and markers of mitochondrial biogenesis, PGC-1α, NRF-1, and TFAM, induced the mitochondrial proteins COX III and COX IV and increased mtDNA and mitochondria content. Pretreatment of primary hepatocytes with ZnPP inhibited cilostazol-induced PGC-1α, NRF-1, and TFAM mRNA expression and reduced mtDNA and mitochondria content. Genetic silencing of Nrf2 prevented the induction of HO-1 and mitochondrial biogenesis by cilostazol in HepG2 cells. Cilostazol induced hepatic HO-1 production and mitochondrial biogenesis in wild-type mice, but not in Hmox1 −/− or Nrf2 −/− mice, and failed to protect against liver injury in Nrf2 −/− mice. These results suggest that I/R injury can impair hepatic mitochondrial function, which can be reversed by cilostazol treatment. These results also suggest that cilostazol-induced mitochondrial biogenesis was mediated by an Nrf-2- and HO-1-dependent pathway.
Crystallizing Vanadium Pentoxide Nanostructures in the Solid‐State Using Modified Block Copolymer and Chitosan Complexes
Authors: Diaz C. , Barrera G. , Segovia M. , Valenzuela M. L. , Osiak M. , O’Dwyer C.
Published: May 2015

A systematic study of the synthesis of V2O5 nanostructured materials using macromolecular PS‐co‐4‐PVP·(VCl3)y and chitosan·(VCl3)y complexes is presented. It is demonstrated that various coordination degrees of the metal into the polymeric chain specifically influence the product formation after pyrolysis. PS‐co‐4‐PVP·(VCl3)y and chitosan·(VCl3)y complexes were prepared by simple coordination reaction of VCl3 with the respective polymer in molar ratios 1 : 1, 1 : 5, and 1 : 10 metal/polymer and characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, and TGA/DSC analysis. Solid‐state thermolysis of these precursors at several temperatures under air results in nanostructured V2O5 using all precursors. The size and shape of the nanostructured V2O5 depend on the nature of the polymer. For the chitosan·(VCl3)y precursors sub‐10 nm nanocrystals are formed. The calcination process, involved in the preparation method, produces V2O5 with photoluminescence in the visible light region, suggesting the possible application in oxygen sensing devices.
Morphological Investigation and Fractal Properties of Realgar Nanoparticles
Authors: Lashgari Amir , Ghamami Shahriar , Bahrami Zahra , Shomossi Farzaneh , Salgado-Morán Guillermo , Glossman-Mitnik Daniel
Published: May 2015

Some arsenic compounds can show extraordinary polymorphism. Realgar (As4S4) is among several minerals with various crystal forms and is one of the most important sources of arsenic for pharmaceutical use. Currently, realgar is used as an arsenic source in many industries, such as weaponry, publishing, textiles, cosmetics, and health products. In this paper, we used and reported new methods for the purification, nanonization, and structural morphological investigations of As4S4 by using planetary ball mills process for nanonization of the compound. The product was characterized using X‐ray powder diffraction analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry spectra, and field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) imaging. We investigated the morphological properties of FESEM‐imaged realgar nanoparticles by an image‐processing technique that calculates fractal dimensions using values on a computer with MATLAB software. We applied the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software for statistics data extracted from the FESEM image and obtained the statistics results of the fractal dimension and histogram plot for the FESEM image.
Complete Disappearance of Choroidal Metastasis from Lung Adenocarcinoma Treated with Bevacizumab and Chemotherapy
Authors: Kourie Hampig Raphael , Antoun Joelle , Schakal Alexandre , Nasr Elie , Sahyoun Marwan , Kattan Joseph
Published: May 2015

Choroidal metastasis from lung cancer is uncommon. We report a case of choroidal metastasis as an inaugural manifestation of lung adenocarcinoma, successfully treated by docetaxel, cisplatinum, and intravenous bevacizumab as an antiangiogenesis therapy. A complete remission was obtained after 4 cycles and maintained after six cycles. This case report demonstrates the importance of the systemic bevacizumab and chemotherapy in the treatment of choroidal metastasis from adenocarcinoma of the lung.
Increased Migratory and Activation Cell Markers of Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes in an Experimental Model of Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Pereira Wagner de Fátima , Brito-Melo Gustavo Eustáquio Alvim , Carneiro Cláudia Martins , Melo Dirceu de Sousa , Costa Karine Beatriz , Guimarães Fábio Lourenço Tadeu , Rocha-Vieira Etel , Vieira Érica Leandro Marciano , Simões e Silva Ana Cristina
Published: May 2015

The present study aimed to evaluate the expression of CD80 and CD18 in subpopulations of peripheral blood leukocytes and oxidative kidney damage in rats with nephrotic syndrome (NS) induced by doxorubicin (Dox) in comparison to control animals at different time points. Male adult Wistar rats were submitted to 24‐hour urine and blood collection for biochemical and immunological analysis at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after Dox injection. After euthanasia, the kidneys were removed for histological analysis and the evaluation of oxidative stress. The phenotypic characterization of leukocytes was performed using flow cytometry. Dox‐injected animals exhibited increased CD18 expression in cytotoxic T lymphocytes, NK cells, and monocytes and high CD80 expression in monocytes. Kidney oxidative damage was positively correlated with CD80 expression in monocytes and serum levels of creatinine. These results suggest that phagocytic and cytotoxic cells are preferentially recruited to the tissue injury site, which may contribute to kidney dysfunction in this animal model of NS. The blockade of integrin and costimulatory molecules may provide new therapeutic opportunities for NS.
Infected Baerveldt Glaucoma Drainage Device byAspergillus niger
Authors: Salim Nurul-Laila , Azhany Yaakub , Abdul Rahman Zaidah , Yusof Roziawati , Liza-Sharmini Ahmad Tajudin
Published: May 2015

Fungal endophthalmitis is rare but may complicate glaucoma drainage device surgery. Management is challenging as the symptoms and signs may be subtle at initial presentation and the visual prognosis is usually poor due to its resistant nature to treatment. At present there is lesser experience with intravitreal injection of voriconazole as compared to Amphotericin B. We present a case of successfully treatedAspergillusendophthalmitis following Baerveldt glaucoma drainage device implantation with intravitreal and topical voriconazole.
An Unusual Location of Neuroendocrine Tumour: Primary Hepatic Origin
Authors: Ceyran A. Bahar , Artış A. Tarık , Şenol Serkan , Şimşek Bengü Çobanoğlu
Published: May 2015

Although neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) of primary hepatic origin are extremely rare, most of NETs present with liver metastasis. When a NET is found in the liver, it must be treated to exclude metastasis from extrahepatic primary sites. The patient was a 38-year-old female. Abdominal ultrasound showed an 8 cm tumour in liver during a routine examination. Liver biopsy was done. The tumour was first considered a metastatic hepatic tumour on histopathological examination. No clues to the origin of a primary tumour were found. Upper and lower endoscopy of the GI tract and chest CT were performed to search for a primary tumour and were negative for any tumour. One month later, more extensive areas of the tumour were seen on histopathological examination of second liver biopsy with the same morphologic characteristics as the first biopsy. Immunohistochemically, there was positive staining for synaptophysin, CD 56, and S-100 in the tumour cells. These findings suggested the diagnosis of NET. The diagnosis of primary liver NET was considered in a multidisciplinary meeting. Then, left hepatectomy was performed. The final pathologic diagnosis of the tumour in the resected liver specimen was Grade II NET. The patient was doing well at postoperative 28-month follow-up.
Comparison of Enoxaparin and Warfarin for Secondary Prevention of Cancer-Associated Stroke
Authors: Jang Hyemin , Lee Jung Jae , Lee Mi Ji , Ryoo Sookyung , Yoon Chang Hyo , Kim Gyeong-Moon , Chung Chin-Sang , Lee Kwang Ho , Bang Oh Young , Kim Suk Jae
Published: May 2015

Background. The aim of this study was to determine which anticoagulant is superior for secondary prevention of cancer-associated stroke, using changes in D-dimer levels as a biomarker for recurrent thromboembolic events.Methods. We conducted a retrospective, single center observational study including patients with cancer-associated stroke who were treated with either enoxaparin or warfarin. Blood samples for measuring the initial and follow-up D-dimer levels were collected at admission and a median of 8 days after admission, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the factors that influenced D-dimer levels after treatment.Results. Although the initial D-dimer levels did not differ between the two groups, the follow-up levels were dramatically decreased in patients treated with enoxaparin, while they did not change with use of warfarin (3.88 μg/mL versus 17.42 μg/mL,p=0.026). On multiple logistic regression analysis, use of warfarin (OR 12.95;p=0.001) and the presence of systemic metastasis (OR 18.73;p=0.017) were independently associated with elevated D-dimer levels (≥10 μg/mL) after treatment.Conclusion. In cancer-associated stroke patients, treatment with enoxaparin may be more effective than treatment with warfarin for lowering the D-dimer levels. Future prospective studies are warranted to show that enoxaparin is better than warfarin for secondary prevention in cancer-associated stroke.
Insoluble Content, Ionic Composition, Density, and X-Ray Diffraction Spectra of 6 Evaporites from Niger Republic
Authors: Saidou Hassidou , Hamzaoui Ahmed Hichem , Mnif Adel
Published: May 2015

Some physicochemical (insoluble content, ionic composition, density, and X-ray diffraction spectra) characteristics of Nigerien evaporites were investigated in this study. The results obtained showed that trona is the main mineral contained in Agadez, Dirkou, Niamey, and Zinder evaporites while thenardite and halite constitute the major minerals in Bilma and Tabalak evaporites, respectively. In addition, all evaporites samples investigated revealed the presence of quartz and halite. Other interesting minerals (calcite, gypsum, sylvite, aphthitalite, nahcolite, illite, burkeite, kaolinite, griceite, and talc) were also detected. The use of Agadez, Dirkou, Niamey, and Zinder evaporites as catalyst to accelerate cowpea cooking is due to bicarbonates ions present in trona. Bilma and Tabalak evaporites employed in animal feeding are due to the halite contained in a significant quantity.
Viral Etiology of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbations during the A/H1N1pdm09 Pandemic and Postpandemic Period
Authors: Sanz Ivan , Tamames Sonia , Rojo Silvia , Justel Mar , Lozano José Eugenio , Disdier Carlos , Vega Tomás , Ortiz de Lejarazu Raúl
Published: May 2015

Viral infections are one of the main causes of acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AE-COPD). Emergence of A/H1N1pdm influenza virus in the 2009 pandemic changed the viral etiology of exacerbations that were reported before the pandemic. The aim of this study was to describe the etiology of respiratory viruses in 195 Spanish patients affected by AE-COPD from the pandemic until the 2011-12 influenza epidemic. During the study period (2009–2012), respiratory viruses were identified in 48.7% of samples, and the proportion of viral detections in AE-COPD was higher in patients aged 30–64 years than ≥65 years. Influenza A viruses were the pathogens most often detected during the pandemic and the following two influenza epidemics in contradistinction to human rhino/enteroviruses that were the main viruses causing AE-COPD before the pandemic. The probability of influenza virus detection was 2.78-fold higher in patients who are 30–64 years old than those ≥65. Most respiratory samples were obtained during the pandemic, but the influenza detection rate was higher during the 2011-12 epidemic. There is a need for more accurate AE-COPD diagnosis, emphasizing the role of respiratory viruses. Furthermore, diagnosis requires increased attention to patient age and the characteristics of each influenza epidemic.
Fatal Necrotizing Fasciitis following Episiotomy
Authors: Almarzouqi Faris , Grieb Gerrit , Klink Christian , Bauerschlag Dirk , Fuchs Paul C. , Alharbi Ziyad , Vasku Marketa , Pallua Norbert
Published: May 2015

Introduction. Necrotizing fasciitis is an uncommon condition in general practice but one that provokes serious morbidity. It is characterized by widespread fascial necrosis with relative sparing of skin and underlying muscle. Herein, we report a fatal case of necrotizing fasciitis in a young healthy woman after episiotomy.Case Report. A 17-year-old primigravida underwent a vaginal delivery with mediolateral episiotomy. Necrotizing fasciitis was diagnosed on the 5th postpartum day, when the patient was referred to our tertiary care medical center. Surgical debridement was initiated together with antibiotics and followed by hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The patient died due to septic shock after 16 hours from the referral.Conclusion. Delay of diagnosis and consequently the surgical debridement were most likely the reasons for maternal death. In puerperal period, a physician must consider necrotizing fasciitis as a possible diagnosis in any local sings of infection especially when accompanied by fever and/or tenderness. Early diagnosis is the key for low mortality and morbidity.