bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesenchymal stem cells protect against obstruction-induced renal fibrosis by decreasing STAT3 activation and STAT3-dependent MMP-9 production
Authors: Matsui Futoshi , Babitz Stephen A. , Rhee Audrey , Hile Karen L. , Zhang Hongji , Meldrum Kirstan K.
Published: October 2016

STAT3 is a transcription factor implicated in renal fibrotic injury, but the role of STAT3 in mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-induced renoprotection during renal fibrosis remains unknown. We hypothesized that MSCs protect against obstruction-induced renal fibrosis by downregulating STAT3 activation and STAT3-induced matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) expression. Male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent renal arterial injection of vehicle or MSCs (1 × 106/rat) immediately before sham operation or induction of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). The kidneys were harvested after 4 wk and analyzed for collagen I and III gene expression, collagen deposition (Masson’s trichrome), fibronectin, α-smooth muscle actin, active STAT3 (p-STAT3), MMP-9, and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1) expression. In a separate arm, the STAT3 inhibitor S3I-201 (10 mg/kg) vs. vehicle was administered to rats intraperitoneally just after induction of UUO and daily for 14 days thereafter. The kidneys were harvested after 2 wk and analyzed for p-STAT3 and MMP-9 expression, and collagen and fibronectin deposition. Renal obstruction induced a significant increase in collagen, fibronectin, α-SMA, p-STAT3, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 expression while exogenously administered MSCs significantly reduced these indicators of obstruction-induced renal fibrosis. STAT3 inhibition with S3I-201 significantly reduced obstruction-induced MMP-9 expression and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. These results demonstrate that MSCs protect against obstruction-induced renal fibrosis, in part, by decreasing STAT3 activation and STAT3-dependent MMP-9 production.
Molecular mechanisms regulating aquaporin-2 in kidney collecting duct
Authors: Jung Hyun Jun , Kwon Tae-Hwan
Published: October 2016

The kidney collecting duct is an important renal tubular segment for regulation of body water homeostasis and urine concentration. Water reabsorption in the collecting duct principal cells is controlled by vasopressin, a peptide hormone that induces the osmotic water transport across the collecting duct epithelia through regulation of water channel proteins aquaporin-2 (AQP2) and aquaporin-3 (AQP3). In particular, vasopressin induces both intracellular translocation of AQP2-bearing vesicles to the apical plasma membrane and transcription of the Aqp2 gene to increase AQP2 protein abundance. The signaling pathways, including AQP2 phosphorylation, RhoA phosphorylation, intracellular calcium mobilization, and actin depolymerization, play a key role in the translocation of AQP2. This review summarizes recent data demonstrating the regulation of AQP2 as the underlying molecular mechanism for the homeostasis of water balance in the body.
Downregulation of kidney protective factors by inflammation: role of transcription factors and epigenetic mechanisms
Authors: Ruiz-Andres Olga , Sanchez-Niño Maria Dolores , Moreno Juan Antonio , Ruiz-Ortega Marta , Ramos Adrian Mario , Sanz Ana Belen , Ortiz Alberto
Published: October 2016

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated to an increased risk of death, CKD progression, and acute kidney injury (AKI) even from early stages, when glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is preserved. The link between early CKD and these risks is unclear, since there is no accumulation of uremic toxins. However, pathological albuminuria and kidney inflammation are frequent features of early CKD, and the production of kidney protective factors may be decreased. Indeed, Klotho expression is already decreased in CKD category G1 (normal GFR). Klotho has anti-aging and nephroprotective properties, and decreased Klotho levels may contribute to increase the risk of death, CKD progression, and AKI. In this review, we discuss the downregulation by mediators of inflammation of molecules with systemic and/or renal local protective functions, exemplified by Klotho and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), a transcription factor that promotes mitochondrial biogenesis. Cytokines such as TWEAK, TNF-α, or transforming growth factor -β1 produced locally during kidney injury or released from inflammatory sites at other organs may decrease kidney expression of Klotho and PGC-1α or lead to suboptimal recruitment of these nephroprotective proteins. Transcription factors (e.g., Smad3 and NF-κB) and epigenetic mechanisms (e.g., histone acetylation or methylation) contribute to downregulate the expression of Klotho and/or PGC-1α, while histone crotonylation promotes PGC-1α expression. NF-κBiz facilitates the repressive effect of NF-κB on Klotho expression. A detailed understanding of these mediators may contribute to the development of novel therapeutic approaches to prevent CKD progression and its negative impact on mortality and AKI.
Uncoupling of Vascular Nitric Oxide Synthase Caused by Intermittent Hypoxia
Authors: Badran Mohammad , Abuyassin Bisher , Golbidi Saeid , Ayas Najib , Laher Ismail
Published: October 2016

Objective. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), characterized by chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), is often present in diabetic (DB) patients. Both conditions are associated with endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. We hypothesized that diabetic endothelial dysfunction is further compromised by CIH. Methods. Adult male diabetic (BKS.Cg‐Dock7m +/+ Leprdb/J) (db/db) mice (10 weeks old) and their heterozygote littermates were subjected to CIH or intermittent air (IA) for 8 weeks. Mice were separated into 4 groups: IA (intermittent air nondiabetic), IH (intermittent hypoxia nondiabetic), IADB (intermittent air diabetic), and IHDB (intermittent hypoxia diabetic) groups. Endothelium‐dependent and endothelium‐independent relaxation and modulation by basal nitric oxide (NO) were analyzed using wire myograph. Plasma 8‐isoprostane, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) were measured using ELISA. Uncoupling of eNOS was measured using dihydroethidium (DHE) staining. Results. Endothelium‐dependent vasodilation and basal NO production were significantly impaired in the IH and IADB group compared to IA group but was more pronounced in IHDB group. Levels of 8‐isoprostane, IL‐6, ADMA, and eNOS uncoupling were ≈2‐fold higher in IH and IADB groups and were further increased in the IHDB group. Conclusion. Endothelial dysfunction is more pronounced in diabetic mice subjected to CIH compared to diabetic or CIH mice alone. Oxidative stress, ADMA, and eNOS uncoupling were exacerbated by CIH in diabetic mice.
Hydrogen Sulfide Regulates the [Ca2+]i Level in the Primary Medullary Neurons
Authors: Liu Xiaoni , Zhang Nana , Ding Yingjiong , Cao Dongqing , Huang Ying , Chen Xiangjun , Wang Rui , Lu Ning
Published: October 2016

In the present study, we attempted to elucidate mechanisms for the regulation of intracellular calcium levels by H2S in primary rat medullary neurons. Our results showed that NaHS significantly increased the level of in rat medullary neurons in a concentration‐dependent manner. L‐Cysteine and SAM significantly raised the level of in the medullary neurons while HA and/or AOAA produced a reversal effect. In addition, L‐cysteine and SAM significantly increased but HA and/or AOAA decreased the production of H2S in the cultured neurons. The elevation induced by H2S was significantly diminished by EGTA‐Ca2+‐free solutions, and this elevation was also reduced by nifedipine or nimodipine and mibefradil, suggesting the role of L‐type and/or T‐type Ca2+ channels. Moreover, the effect of H2S on level in neurons was significantly attenuated by BAPTA‐AM and thapsigargin, suggesting the source of Ca2+. Therefore, we concluded that both exogenous and endogenous H2S elevates level in primarily cultured rat medullary neurons via both increasing calcium influx and mobilizing intracellular Ca2+ stores from ER.
Inconceivable Hypokalemia: A Case Report of Acute Severe Barium Chloride Poisoning
Authors: Tao Haibo , Man Yanru , Shi Xiaoyuan , Zhu Jun , Pan Hang , Qin Qin , Liu Shanrong
Published: October 2016

Barium is a heavy divalent alkaline earth metal that has been known as a muscle poison. Barium can cause human toxicity, which may lead to significant hypokalemia and have serious consequences. This paper reports a case of unprecedented barium intoxication in which the patient, who suffered from depression, swallowed at least 3.0 g barium chloride to commit suicide. On admission, the patient presented with nausea, vomiting, stomach burning feeling, dizziness, and weakness. Emergency biochemical testing showed that the patient was suffering from severe hypokalemia (K+ 1.7 mmol/L). His electrocardiogram (ECG) prompted atrioventricular blocking, ventricular tachycardia, prolongation of PR interval, ST segment depression with U waves, and T wave inversion. Intravenous potassium supplements were given immediately to correct hypokalemia and regular monitoring of vital signs and fluid balance was arranged. After all-out rescue of our hospital personnel, the condition of the patient is currently stable and he is gradually recovering. This case exemplifies the weaknesses of the management of toxic substances and the lack of mental health education for young people. We hope to get more attention for the supervision of toxic substances and the healthy development of young people.
A Service-Oriented Approach to Crowdsensing for Accessible Smart Mobility Scenarios
Authors: Mirri Silvia , Prandi Catia , Salomoni Paola , Callegati Franco , Melis Andrea , Prandini Marco
Published: October 2016

This work presents an architecture to help designing and deploying smart mobility applications. The proposed solution builds on the experience already matured by the authors in different fields: crowdsourcing and sensing done by users to gather data related to urban barriers and facilities, computation of personalized paths for users with special needs, and integration of open data provided by bus companies to identify the actual accessibility features and estimate the real arrival time of vehicles at stops. In terms of functionality, the first “monolithic” prototype fulfilled the goal of composing the aforementioned pieces of information to support citizens with reduced mobility (users with disabilities and/or elderly people) in their urban movements. In this paper, we describe a service-oriented architecture that exploits the microservices orchestration paradigm to enable the creation of new services and to make the management of the various data sources easier and more effective. The proposed platform exposes standardized interfaces to access data, implements common services to manage metadata associated with them, such as trustworthiness and provenance, and provides an orchestration language to create complex services, naturally mapping their internal workflow to code. The manuscript demonstrates the effectiveness of the approach by means of some case studies.
Effect of Sulindac Binary System on In Vitro and In Vivo Release Profiles: An Assessment of Polymer Type and Its Ratio
Authors: Shazly Gamal A.
Published: October 2016

The bioavailability of sulindac (SDC), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is low due to poor aqueous solubility and poor dissolution rate. For this reason it is necessary to enhance the solubility and enhance dissolution of the drug by dispersing SDC in polyethylene glycols 6000 (PEG 6000) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone 40000 (PVP 40000) matrices using the coevaporation technique. Studying the influence of SDC to polymer ratio on drug content, percent yield, particle size, and in vitro release was performed. Differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize any change in crystal habit of SDC in the prepared formulae. The anti-inflammatory effect of SDC was studied using the hind paw edema model. It was found that incorporation of SDC in PEG 6000 and PVP 40000 matrices resulted in improving the dissolution rate, which was found to depend on the polymer and its weight ratio of the drug. It is clearly obvious that the dissolution rate was remarkably improved in drug PVP 40000 molecular dispersions when compared to drug PEG 6000 systems. Solid dispersion of SDC in PEG and PVP improved the anti-inflammatory effect of SDC and it was found that formula SDV5 exhibited a more pronounced inhibition of swelling than other formulae.
The Effect of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate on the Periapical Tissues after Unintentional Extrusion beyond the Apical Foramen
Authors: Nagmode Pradnya S. , Satpute Archana B. , Patel Ankit V. , Ladhe Pushpak L.
Published: October 2016

Introduction. Single-step apexification procedures using mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) have been reported as favorable treatment options for teeth with an open apex, posing greater benefits compared to the other available medicaments. However, controlled apical placement of MTA is a challenging procedure to perform using orthograde approach. This case series describes the outcome of the unintentional extrusion of MTA into periradicular tissues during apexification, in three separate cases.Methods. Three adult patients reported to the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics for the management of maxillary incisors with open apices. After isolation, conventional access, and cleaning and shaping procedures, one-step MTA apexification was performed. On subsequent radiographs, a considerable amount of MTA was seen to be extruded in all the three cases.Results. During follow-up examination the teeth were seen to be asymptomatic in all cases and radiographically demonstrated repair of the periapical lesion.Conclusion. The results of these cases suggest that extrusion of MTA into the periapical tissues does not cause any detrimental effect, which could be attributed to the biologic properties of MTA.
The Extract of Chrysanthemum zawadskii var. latilobum Ameliorates Collagen‐Induced Arthritis in Mice
Authors: Kim A-Ram , Kim Hyuk Soon , Kim Do Kyun , Lee Jun Ho , Yoo Young Hyo , Kim Jeom Yong , Park Sun Kyu , Nam Seung Taek , Kim Hyun Woo , Park Young Hwan , Lee Dajeong , Lee Min Beom , Kim Young Mi , Choi Wahn Soo
Published: October 2016

Chrysanthemum zawadskii var. latilobum (CZ) has been used for beverage or tea and also as folk medicine for the remedy of diverse inflammatory diseases. Nevertheless, the therapeutic effect of CZ on arthritis remains to be unknown. In this paper we aim to investigate the CZ’s antiarthritic effect and mechanism of action both in vitro and in vivo. To assess CZ’s antiarthritic effect, mouse models of type II collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) were used. Mice were used to gauge clinical arthritis index and histopathological changes. Reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), western blotting, electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), and other biological methods were adopted to measure CZ’s effect on arthritis and to understand the veiled mechanism of action. CZ greatly suppressed CIA, histopathological score, bone erosion, and osteoclast differentiation. Mechanistically, CZ inhibited the production of various inflammatory and arthritic mediators like inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and chemokines. Of note, CZ significantly suppressed the activation of the NF‐κB pathway in vivo. CZ exerted an antiarthritic effect in CIA mice by curbing the production of crucial inflammatory and arthritis mediators. This study warrants further investigation of CZ for the use in human rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Systemic Toxicity of Intraperitoneal Vancomycin
Authors: Kumar Teerath , Teo Iris , McCormick Brendan B.
Published: October 2016

Intraperitoneal vancomycin is used for empiric treatment of peritoneal dialysis peritonitis. It is dosed intermittently and a high systemic concentration is often achieved. Despite this, there are very few reports of systemic toxicity from intraperitoneal vancomycin. We report the course of a patient who developed a drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome after three weeks of intraperitoneal vancomycin. We review the literature and conclude that this is the first ever reported case of DRESS syndrome from intraperitoneal vancomycin.
Bilateral Simultaneous Quadriceps Tendon Rupture in a 24-Year-Old Obese Patient: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Abduljabbar Fahad H. , Aljurayyan Abdulaziz , Ghalimah Bayan , Lincoln Lawrence
Published: October 2016

Introduction. Simultaneous bilateral quadriceps tendon ruptures (SBQTR) are uncommon knee injuries and most frequently occur in male patients, over 50 years of age. It can be associated with one or more predisposing risk factors like obesity, steroids use, and hyperparathyroidism. The main focus of this paper is to review SBQTR in obese patients.Case Report. We are reporting the youngest patient in the literature to date, a 24-year-old obese male patient, who presented to the emergency department complaining of bilateral knee pain and inability to walk after a fall during a basketball game. His clinical examination revealed the presence of a palpable suprapatellar gap and loss of knee extension bilaterally. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed that both of his quadriceps tendons were ruptured. A day after his diagnosis, the patient underwent successful operative repair followed by rehabilitation. At the two-year follow-up, the patient had full strength of both quadriceps muscles with no extension lag.Conclusion. The diagnosis of SBQTR can be challenging. Early diagnosis and treatment are associated with better functional outcome compared to delayed treatment. Physicians should have a high index of clinical suspicion in order not to miss such an injury and achieve favourable outcomes.
Retroperitoneal Teratoma in an Adult: A Potential Pitfall in the Differential Diagnosis of Adrenal Myelolipoma
Authors: Kataoka Madoka , Fukushima Hiroshi , Nakanishi Yasukazu , Yokoyama Minato , Funata Nobuaki , Motoi Toru , Tobisu Ken-ichi , Koga Fumitaka
Published: October 2016

We report a 32-year-old female case of a right adrenal gland mass detected on CT scan at medical checkup. CT and MRI showed a mass of 5.1 cm made of fat and calcification in the right adrenal gland, leading to the clinical diagnosis of adrenal myelolipoma. Because of its relatively large size and the patient’s desire, the patient underwent gasless single-port retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy using the RoboSurgeon system. Histopathological examination revealed that the cystic tumor is composed of keratinized epidermis, mature fat, nerve, cartilage, bone, and sebaceous glands compressing the normal adrenal gland, leading to the diagnosis of retroperitoneal mature cystic teratoma. The patient remains free of recurrence 29 months after surgery. Retroperitoneal teratoma is relatively rare but clinically important because of high possibility of malignancy. In a case of an adrenal mass difficult to clinically distinguish retroperitoneal teratoma from adrenal myelolipoma, surgical resection via a minimally invasive approach would be the best therapeutic option.
Topic Modeling Based Image Clustering by Events in Social Media
Authors: Xu Bin , Fan Guoliang , Yang Dan
Published: October 2016

Social event detection in large photo collections is very challenging and multimodal clustering is an effective methodology to deal with the problem. Geographic information is important in event detection. This paper proposed a topic model based approach to estimate the missing geographic information for photos. The approach utilizes a supervised multimodal topic model to estimate the joint distribution of time, geographic, content, and attached textual information. Then we annotate the missing geographic photos with a predicted geographic coordinate. Experimental results indicate that the clustering performance improved by annotated geographic information.
Serum Metabolomic Response to Long-Term Supplementation withall-rac-α-Tocopheryl Acetate in a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mondul Alison M. , Moore Steven C. , Weinstein Stephanie J. , Evans Anne M. , Karoly Edward D. , Männistö Satu , Sampson Joshua N. , Albanes Demetrius
Published: October 2016

Background. The Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention (ATBC) Study, a randomized controlled cancer prevention trial, showed a 32% reduction in prostate cancer incidence in response to vitamin E supplementation. Two other trials were not confirmatory, however.Objective. We compared the change in serum metabolome of the ATBC Study participants randomized to receive vitamin E to those who were not by randomly selecting 50 men from each of the intervention groups (50 mg/day all-rac-α-tocopheryl acetate (ATA), 20 mg/dayβ-carotene, both, placebo).Methods. Metabolomic profiling was conducted on baseline and follow-up fasting serum (Metabolon, Inc.).Results. After correction for multiple comparisons, five metabolites were statistically significantly altered (βis the change in metabolite level expressed as number of standard deviations on the log scale):α-CEHC sulfate (β=1.51,p=1.45×10-38),α-CEHC glucuronide (β=1.41,p=1.02×10-31),α-tocopherol (β=0.97,p=2.22×10-13),γ-tocopherol (β=-0.90,p=1.76×10-11), andβ-tocopherol (β=-0.73,p=9.40×10-8). Glutarylcarnitine, beta-alanine, ornithine, and N6-acetyllysine were also decreased by ATA supplementation (βrange 0.40 to −0.36), but not statistically significantly.Conclusions. Comparison of the observed metabolite alterations resulting from ATA supplementation to those in other vitamin E trials of different populations, dosages, or formulations may shed light on the apparently discordant vitamin E-prostate cancer risk findings.
A Review of the Evaluation, Control, and Application Technologies for Drill String Vibrations and Shocks in Oil and Gas Well
Authors: Dong Guangjian , Chen Ping
Published: October 2016

Drill string vibrations and shocks (V&S) can limit the optimization of drilling performance, which is a key problem for trajectory optimizing, wellbore design, increasing drill tools life, rate of penetration, and intelligent drilling. The directional wells and other special trajectory drilling technologies are often used in deep water, deep well, hard rock, and brittle shale formations. In drilling these complex wells, the cost caused by V&S increases. According to past theories, indoor experiments, and field studies, the relations among ten kinds of V&S, which contain basic forms, response frequency, and amplitude, are summarized and discussed. Two evaluation methods are compared systematically, such as theoretical and measurement methods. Typical vibration measurement tools are investigated and discussed. The control technologies for drill string V&S are divided into passive control, active control, and semiactive control. Key methods for and critical equipment of three control types are compared. Based on the past development, a controlling program of drill string V&S is devised. Application technologies of the drill string V&S are discussed, such as improving the rate of penetration, controlling borehole trajectory, finding source of seismic while drilling, and reducing the friction of drill string. Related discussions and recommendations for evaluating, controlling, and applying the drill string V&S are made.
The Effect of Salt-Processed Psoralea corylifolia on Generative Organ Targeting
Authors: Zhao Gen-hua , Yan Cui-ping , Xu Zi-sheng , Gao Qian-qian , Chen Zhi-peng , Li Wei-dong
Published: October 2016

Psoralen and isopsoralen are two isomers and main effective components within Psoralea corylifolia. In order to investigate the salt-processing effect on tissue distribution characters of psoralen and isopsoralen, a sensitive and accurate ultrahigh pressure liquid chromatographic tandem mass spectrometric (UHPLC-MS/MS) method has been developed and validated for simultaneous determination of the 2 components in rats’ tissues after administration of the extracts that came from either crude or salt-processed Psoralea corylifolia L. Data displayed that both areas under the curve (AUC) of psoralen and isopsoralen from salt-processed scurfpea fruit group were significantly increased compared with that of the crude herb group, especially in heart (p<0.05), ovary, and testes (p<0.001). Though the RE and RCmax of psoralen and isopsoralen in all of the investigated organs were over 1.0, generative organs kept the maximum value. The experiment manifested that salt-processing of scurfpea fruit can increase the distribution of psoralen and isopsoralen to generative organs, heart and spleen, and the distribution of psoralen and isopsoralen to generative organs is significantly higher compared to heart and spleen (p<0.01). Results indicate that salt-processing of scurfpea fruit can significantly increase the distribution of psoralen and isopsoralen to generative organs.
A Conservative Approach to a Peripheral Ameloblastoma
Authors: Borrello Rocco , Bettio Elia , Bacci Christian , Valente Marialuisa , Sivolella Stefano , Mazzoleni Sergio , Berengo Mario
Published: October 2016

Peripheral Ameloblastoma (PA) is the rarest variant of ameloblastoma. It differs from the other subtypes of ameloblastoma in its localization: it arises in the soft tissues of the oral cavity coating the tooth bearing bones. Generally, it manifests nonaggressive behavior and it can be treated with complete removal by local conservative excision. In this study we report a case of PA of the maxilla in a 78-year-old female patient and we describe the four different histopathological patterns revealed by histological examination. After local excision and diagnosis, we planned a long term follow-up: in one year no recurrence had been reported. The choice of treatment is illustrated in Discussion.
S-Mixing Tuple of Operators on Banach Spaces
Authors: Wang Wei , Shu Yonglu , Wang Xingzhong
Published: October 2016

We consider the question: what is the appropriate formulation of Godefroy-Shapiro criterion for tuples of operators? We also introduce a new notion about tuples of operators,S-mixing, which lies between mixing and weakly mixing. We also obtain a sufficient condition to ensure a tuple of operators to beS-mixing. Moreover, we study some new properties ofS-mixing operators on several concrete Banach spaces.
Evaluating Correlations and Development of Meteorology Based Yield Forecasting Model for Strawberry
Authors: Pathak Tapan B. , Dara Surendra K. , Biscaro Andre
Published: October 2016

California state is among the leading producers of strawberries in the world. The value of the California strawberry crop is approximately $2.6 billion, which makes it one of the most valuable fruit crops for the state and nation’s economy. California’s weather provides ideal conditions for strawberry production and changes in weather pattern could have a significant impact on strawberry fruit production. Evaluating relationships between meteorological parameters and strawberry yield can provide valuable information and early indications of yield forecasts that growers can utilize to their advantage. Objectives of this paper were to evaluate correlations of meteorological parameters on strawberry yield for Santa Maria region and to develop meteorology based empirical yield forecasting models for strawberries. Results showed significant correlation between meteorological parameters and strawberry yield and provided a basis for yield forecasting with lead time. Results from empirical models showed that cross-validated yields were closely associated with observed yield with lead time of 2 to 5 months. Overall, this study showed great potential in developing meteorology based yield forecast using principal components. This study only looked at meteorology based yield forecasts. Skills of these models can be further improved by adding physiological parameters of strawberry to existing models for strawberry.
Trichotillomania as a Manifestation of Dementia
Authors: Paholpak Pongsatorn , Mendez Mario F.
Published: October 2016

Pathological hair-pulling or trichotillomania, which is commonly associated with anxiety and depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and neurodevelopmental disorders, has been rarely associated with dementing illnesses. Investigators have not clarified the neural correlates and treatment of trichotillomania in dementia. We report a patient who developed an early-onset cognitive decline with genetic, cerebrospinal fluid biomarker and structural and functional neuroimaging studies consistent with Alzheimer’s disease. Eight years into her disease, she developed severe, repetitive hair-pulling behavior leading to marked hair loss, along with other repetitive and “frontal” behaviors. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) were ineffective in controlling her hair-pulling behavior, which subsequently responded to quetiapine 150 mg/day. This patient and a review of the literature suggest that trichotillomania may be a compulsive-related symptom in dementias of different etiologies as they involve frontal areas and release primitive grooming behavior from frontostriatal dysfunction. Dopamine blockade, rather than SSRIs, may be effective in managing trichotillomania in dementia.
New Strategies in Multiple Myeloma: Immunotherapy as a Novel Approach to Treat Patients with Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Neri Paola , Bahlis Nizar J. , Lonial Sagar
Published: October 2016

Multiple myeloma is a B-cell malignancy characterized by proliferation of monoclonal plasma cells in the bone marrow. Although new therapeutic options introduced in recent years have resulted in improved survival outcomes, multiple myeloma remains incurable for a large number of patients, and new treatment options are urgently needed. Over the last 5 years, there has been a renewed interest in the clinical potential of immunotherapy for the treatment of multiple myeloma. Clinical progression of myeloma is known to be associated with progressive immune dysregulation and loss of immune surveillance that contribute to disease progression in association with progressive genetic complexity, rendering signaling-based treatments less effective. A variety of strategies to reverse the multiple myeloma–induced immunosuppression has been developed either in the form of immunomodulatory drugs, checkpoint inhibitors, mAbs, engineered T cells, and vaccines. They have shown encouraging results in patients with relapsed refractory multiple myeloma and hold great promise in further improving patient outcomes in multiple myeloma. This review will summarize the major approaches in multiple myeloma immunotherapies and discuss the mechanisms of action and clinical activity of these strategies. Clin Cancer Res; 22(24); 5959–65. ©2016 AACR.
Normal Range of Fetal Nasal Bone Length during the Second Trimester in an Afro-Caribbean Population and Likelihood Ratio for Trisomy 21 of Absent or Hypoplastic Nasal Bone
Authors: Gautier Manuella , Gueneret Michèle , Plavonil Corinne , Jolivet Eugénie , Schaub Bruno
Published: October 2016

Objective: To establish the normal reference range of fetal nasal bone length (NBL) during the second trimester in an Afro-Caribbean population and the likelihood ratio (LR) for fetal trisomy 21. Methods: Prenatal records of euploid, non-malformed singleton fetuses who underwent second-trimester ultrasonographic scans at 20-24 weeks of gestation were retrospectively analyzed for NBL and gestational age (GA). Only Afro-Caribbean couples were selected. The relationship between fetal NBL and GA was determined. The data of all fetuses with Down syndrome were provided by the French West Indies Register of Congenital Malformations (REMALAN). Results: There was a significant linear association between fetal NBL and GA (R2 = 0. 354). The 50th percentile for NBL increased from 5.0 to 7.0 mm from week 20 to 24 of gestation. The nasal bone (NB) was absent or hypoplastic in 8.6% of the euploid fetuses and in 69.2% of the trisomy 21 fetuses. The LR for trisomy 21 of absent or hypoplastic NB in an Afro-Caribbean population was 8.02, but only 2.32 when this sign was isolated. Conclusion: The reference range for fetal NBL at 20-24 weeks of gestation in an Afro-Caribbean population and the LR for trisomy 21 of absent or hypoplastic NB differed from the other populations.
Immunological Microenvironment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Clinical Implication
Authors: Nishida Naoshi , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: October 2016

Despite recent advances in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the prognosis of patients with advanced stage of disease remains unfavorable. Several immune therapies have been applied to HCC, and their responses have not been satisfactory. The immune response to cancer is determined by the balance between the antigenicity of the tumor and the microenvironment of cancer tissues. Generally, accumulated genetic mutations are observed in HCC, which may lead to increased neoantigens on cancer cells with high antigenicity. However, cancer cells may evade the immune system because of alterations in molecules and cellular pathways involved in antigen processing and presentation. In addition, hypoxia in tissue induces several cytokines, chemokines, and immunosuppressive molecules from HCC cells and stromal cells. These cells also produce cytokines that attract regulatory T cells infiltrating tumor tissues and contribute to establishing an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Some cancers show a good response to immune checkpoint therapy. However, prolonged stabilization of disease for this treatment is reportedly 12-41% in patients with advanced cancer. Therefore, immunosuppressive forces in the microenvironment of HCC may cause resistance to immune therapy, and modification of the tumor microenvironment may restore normal anticancer immunity. In this review, we focus on the immunological microenvironment of HCC tissues and discuss how the immunosuppressive environment of HCC should be modulated to achieve a favorable response to immune therapy, such as immune checkpoint therapy, in HCC.
Association Between a Prolonged PR Interval and Outcomes of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Friedman Daniel J. , Bao Haikun , Spatz Erica S. , Curtis Jeptha P. , Daubert James P. , Al-Khatib Sana M.
Published: October 2016

Background:

A prolonged PR interval is common among cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) candidates; however, the association between PR interval and outcomes is unclear, and the data are conflicting.

Methods:

We conducted inverse probability weighted analyses of 26 451 CRT-eligible (ejection fraction ≤35, QRS ≥120 ms) patients from the National Cardiovascular Data Registry ICD Registry to assess the association between a prolonged PR interval (≥230 ms), receipt of CRT with defibrillator (CRT-D) versus implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), and outcomes. We first tested the association between a prolonged PR interval and outcomes among patients stratified by device type. Next, we performed a comparative effectiveness analysis of CRT-D versus ICD among patients when stratified by PR interval. Using Medicare claims data, we followed up with patients up to 5 years for incident heart failure hospitalization or death.

Results:

Patients with a PR≥230 ms (15%; n=4035) were older and had more comorbidities, including coronary artery disease, atrial arrhythmias, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease. After risk adjustment, a PR≥230 ms (versus PR<230 ms) was associated with increased risk of heart failure hospitalization or death among CRT-D (hazard ratio, 1.23; 95% confidence interval, 1.14–1.31;
P
<0.001) but not ICD recipients (hazard ratio, 1.08; 95% confidence interval, 0.97–1.20;
P
=0.17) (
P
interaction
=0.043). CRT-D (versus ICD) was associated with lower rates of heart failure hospitalization or death among patients with PR<230 ms (hazard ratio, 0.79; 95% confidence interval, 0.73–0.85;
P
<0.001) but not PR≥230 ms (hazard ratio, 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 0.87–1.17;
P
=0.90) (
P
interaction
=0.0025).

Conclusions:

A PR≥230 ms is associated with increased rates of heart failure hospitalization or death among CRT-D patients. The real-world comparative effectiveness of CRT-D (versus ICD) is significantly less among patients with a PR≥230 ms in comparison with patients with a PR<230 ms.
Comparison of Vascular Responses Following New‐Generation Biodegradable and Durable Polymer‐Based Drug‐Eluting Stent Implantation in an Atherosclerotic Rabbit Iliac Artery Model
Authors: Nakazawa Gaku , Torii Sho , Ijichi Takeshi , Nagamatsu Hirofumi , Ohno Yohei , Kurata Fumi , Yoshikawa Ayako , Nakano Masataka , Shinozaki Norihiko , Yoshimachi Fuminobu , Ikari Yuji
Published: October 2016

Background

Incomplete endothelialization is the primary substrate of late stent thrombosis; however, recent reports have revealed that abnormal vascular responses are also responsible for the occurrence of late stent failure. The aim of the current study was to assess vascular response following deployment of biodegradable polymer‐based Synergy (Boston Scientific) and Nobori (Terumo) drug‐eluting stents and the durable polymer‐based Resolute Integrity stent (Medtronic) in an atherosclerotic rabbit iliac artery model.

Methods and Results

A total of 24 rabbits were fed an atherogenic diet, and then a balloon injury was used to induce atheroma formation. Synergy, Nobori, and Resolute Integrity stents were randomly implanted in iliac arteries. Animals were euthanized at 28 days for scanning electron microscopic evaluation and at 90 days for histological analysis. The percentage of uncovered strut area at 28 days was lowest with Synergy, followed by Resolute Integrity, and was significantly higher with Nobori stents (Synergy 1.1±2.2%, Resolute Integrity 2.0±3.9%, Nobori 4.6±3.0%;
P
<0.001). At 90 days, inflammation score was lowest for Synergy (0.27±0.45), followed by Nobori (0.62±0.59), and was highest for Resolute Integrity (0.89±0.46,
P
<0.001). Foamy macrophage infiltration within neointima (ie, neoatherosclerosis) was significantly less with Synergy (0.62±0.82) compared with Nobori (0.85±0.74) and Resolute Integrity (1.39±1.32;
P
=0.034).

Conclusions

The biodegradable polymer‐coated thin‐strut Synergy drug‐eluting stent showed the fastest stent strut neointimal coverage and the lowest incidence of neoatherosclerosis in the current animal model.
Efficient Neural Codes That Minimize Lp Reconstruction Error
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Stocker Alan A. , Lee Daniel D.
Published: October 2016

The efficient coding hypothesis assumes that biological sensory systems use neural codes that are optimized to best possibly represent the stimuli that occur in their environment. Most common models use information–theoretic measures, whereas alternative formulations propose incorporating downstream decoding performance. Here we provide a systematic evaluation of different optimality criteria using a parametric formulation of the efficient coding problem based on the [Formula: see text] reconstruction error of the maximum likelihood decoder. This parametric family includes both the information maximization criterion and squared decoding error as special cases. We analytically derived the optimal tuning curve of a single neuron encoding a one-dimensional stimulus with an arbitrary input distribution. We show how the result can be generalized to a class of neural populations by introducing the concept of a meta–tuning curve. The predictions of our framework are tested against previously measured characteristics of some early visual systems found in biology. We find solutions that correspond to low values of [Formula: see text], suggesting that across different animal models, neural representations in the early visual pathways optimize similar criteria about natural stimuli that are relatively close to the information maximization criterion.
LSV-Based Tail Inequalities for Sums of Random Matrices
Authors: Zhang Chao , Du Lei , Tao Dacheng
Published: October 2016

The techniques of random matrices have played an important role in many machine learning models. In this letter, we present a new method to study the tail inequalities for sums of random matrices. Different from other work (Ahlswede & Winter, 2002 ; Tropp, 2012 ; Hsu, Kakade, & Zhang, 2012 ), our tail results are based on the largest singular value (LSV) and independent of the matrix dimension. Since the LSV operation and the expectation are noncommutative, we introduce a diagonalization method to convert the LSV operation into the trace operation of an infinitely dimensional diagonal matrix. In this way, we obtain another version of Laplace-transform bounds and then achieve the LSV-based tail inequalities for sums of random matrices.
A new species of Tenuipalpidae (Acari: Prostigmata) on orchid from Brazil
Authors: DE MORAES G. J. , FREIRE R. A.P.
Published: October 2016

Tenuipalpus orchidofilo n. sp. (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) is described from Brazil based on the mobile immatures and adult stages of both sexes collected on the orchid Arundina graminifolia (D. Don) Hochs.
Crenidorsum aroidephagus Martin & Aguiar sp. nov. (Sternorrhyncha: Aleyrodidae), a New World whitefly species now colonising cultivated Araceae in Europe, Macaronesia and The Pacific Region
Authors: MARTIN J. H. , AGUIAR A. M.F. , BAUFELD P.
Published: October 2016

Crenidorsum aroidephagus Martin & Aguiar sp. nov., a New World native, is here described, colonising several members of the plant family Araceae in Central and South America, southern USA, the Pacific Region and Madeira. It is becoming a minor problem for growers of ornamental-foliage plants. It has recently been discovered in the glasshouse of a botanic garden in Germany. Two Asian species, Aleurotrachelus micheliae (Takahashi) and A. turpiniae (Takahashi) are here transferred to Crenidorsum (both comb. nov.).
A new species of Calacarus Keifer (Acari: Eriophyidae) on papaya in northeastern Brazil
Authors: FLECHTMANN CARLOS H.W. , DE MORAES GILBERTO J. , BARBOSA FLÁVIA R.
Published: October 2016

Calacarus flagelliseta n. sp. (Acari: Prostigmata: Eriophyidae) is described from northeastern Brazil based on adults of both sexes collected from papaya leaves.
New phytoseiid mites (Acari: Phytoseiidae) from tropical Africa
Authors: DE MORAES G。 J. , OLIVEIRA A. R. , ZANNOU I. D.
Published: October 2016

Five new mite species of the family Phytoseiidae (Acari: Mesostigmata) are described from Central Africa: Typhlodromalus breviscutus n. sp., Typhlodromips occidentafricanus n. sp., Typhlodromips extrasetus n. sp., Australiseiulus laterisetus n. sp. and Typhlodromus (Anthoseius) cephalochaitosus n. sp.
Relationship between the Asian Westerly Jet Stream and Summer Rainfall over Central Asia and North China: Roles of the Indian Monsoon and the South Asian High
Authors: Wei Wei , Zhang Renhe , Wen Min , Yang Song
Published: October 2016

Diagnostic analyses are performed to investigate the relationship between the upper-level Asian westerly jet stream (AWJS) and the associated rainfall pattern over the AWJS region in boreal summer on interannual time scales. Results show an out-of-phase rainfall variation over central Asia (CA) and north China (NC), which is closely related to the southeast–northwest (SE–NW) shift of the AWJS. The physical mechanisms on the relationship between the AWJS and the rainfall pattern are revealed by exploring the effects of the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) and the South Asian high (SAH). It is found that the SE–NW shifts of the AWJS and SAH associated with the ISM lead to the anomalous circulations over the midlatitudes in the AWJS region and cause rainfall anomalies over CA and NC. A weak ISM results in a southeastward shift of SAH, which is responsible for a southeastward shift of the AWJS. The anomalous atmospheric circulation associated with the southeastward located SAH produces anomalous updrafts (downdrafts) over the western (eastern) AWJS region, resulting in increased rainfall over CA and decreased rainfall over NC. It is proposed that the upper-level system SAH plays a crucial role in the teleconnection among the summer rainfall over the midlatitude AWJS region and ISM region.
Heat Waves in Southern China: Synoptic Behavior, Long-Term Change, and Urbanization Effects
Authors: Luo Ming , Lau Ngar-Cheung
Published: October 2016

The characteristics of heat waves (HWs) in southern China in 1979–2010 are studied by using both reanalysis and station datasets. Guangdong Province of China (GDPC) is taken as an example. It is found that the westward movement of the western North Pacific subtropical high (WNPSH) is the primary factor for large-scale HWs occurring in GDPC. When an HW occurs, a hot and dry atmospheric column prevails over southern China. The region is overlaid by anomalous subsidence, which leads to warming, and clear sky, which causes greater solar heating. HWs are accompanied by an anomalous high pressure center and anticyclone near the surface, with anomalous land–sea northwesterly flow, thus reducing sea–land moisture transport and drying the atmosphere over land. The evolution of the high pressure anomaly and high temperature is associated with the westward displacement of WNPSH, with a prominent positive anomaly in 500-hPa height migrating westward. All these features associated with HWs in GDPC coincide with high-temperature extremes in the whole region of southern China and parts of Indochina. Significant increases in HW frequency (+0.19 events decade−1), HW days (+2.86 days decade−1), the duration of the longest event (+0.38 days decade−1), and the hottest temperature of the hottest event (+0.23°C decade−1) are also observed. These upward trends are more prominent in the Pearl River delta (PRD) region, and urbanization contributes to nearly 50% of the increase in HW frequency in PRD. It is also noticed that HWs are commencing earlier and ending later, and urbanization may advance the timing of the onset of HW events.
Minority Stress and Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Cheng Hsiu-Lan , Hitter Tracie L. , Adams Eve M. , Williams Charlotte
Published: October 2016

This study examined familism, ethnic identity (search and commitment), and gender as moderators in the associations between two minority stressors (perceived discrimination and acculturative stress) and depressive symptoms in college students of Mexican ancestry ( N = 207) at a Hispanic-serving institution. Using hierarchical multiple regression, we examined main effects and interactions of minority stress variables with hypothesized moderators. Results indicated that familism buffered the positive association between acculturative stress and depressive symptoms. Ethnic identity search and commitment showed gender-specific moderation effects in that a strong ethnic identity search or commitment was protective for women but not for men, when considerable amounts of acculturative stress were experienced. Ethnic identity search also showed gender-specific moderation effects on the association between perceived discrimination and depressive symptoms. The findings highlight the importance of examining cultural variables and gender to understand what may be helpful to students of Mexican ancestry as they manage minority stressors.