bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mobile Cloud Business Process Management System for the Internet of Things
Authors: Chang Chii , Srirama Satish Narayana , Buyya Rajkumar
Published: December 2016

The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a comprehensive environment that consists of a large number of smart devices interconnecting heterogeneous physical objects to the Internet. Many domains such as logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, urban computing, home automation, ambient assisted living, and various ubiquitous computing applications have utilized IoT technologies. Meanwhile, Business Process Management Systems (BPMSs) have become a successful and efficient solution for coordinated management and optimized utilization of resources/entities. However, past BPMSs have not considered many issues they will face in managing large-scale connected heterogeneous IoT entities. Without fully understanding the behavior, capability, and state of the IoT entities, the BPMS can fail to manage the IoT integrated information systems. In this article, we analyze existing BPMSs for IoT and identify the limitations and their drawbacks based on a Mobile Cloud Computing perspective. Later, we discuss a number of open challenges in BPMS for IoT.
Chondrosarcomatous Differentiation in a Large Malignant Melanoma of the Scalp
Authors: Alderson Colin S. , Douglas Helen E. , Rollett Rebecca , Mathew Bipin , Matteucci Paolo
Published: December 2016

Background. Divergent differentiation in malignant melanoma is a rare phenomenon, which can lead to delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis, impacting upon patient treatment and outcome, as well as the understanding of tumour behaviour. Case. We present the case of a large long-standing tumour on the scalp of a 72-year-old female patient, which when excised and examined histologically was revealed to be a nodular malignant melanoma displaying chondrosarcomatous differentiation. Foci suggestive of lentigo maligna were also present. Rapid metastatic spread of the tumour was observed shortly after the primary resection. Discussion. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case in the literature of chondrosarcomatous differentiation in a lentigo maligna melanoma. The clinical and histopathological details and images of this case are presented alongside a discussion regarding such tumours and patterns of similar tumour behaviour.
A Single Bout of Fasting (24 h) Reduces Basal Cytokine Expression and Minimally Impacts the Sterile Inflammatory Response in the White Adipose Tissue of Normal Weight F344 Rats
Authors: Speaker Kristin J. , Paton Madeline M. , Cox Stewart S. , Fleshner Monika
Published: December 2016

Sterile inflammation occurs when inflammatory proteins are increased in blood and tissues by nonpathogenic states and is a double-edged sword depending on its cause (stress, injury, or disease), duration (transient versus chronic), and inflammatory milieu. Short-term fasting can exert a host of health benefits through unknown mechanisms. The following experiment tested if a 24 h fast would modulate basal and stress-evoked sterile inflammation in plasma and adipose. Adult male F344 rats were either randomized toad libitumaccess to food or fasted for 24 h prior to 0 (control), 10, or 100, 1.5 mA-5 s intermittent, inescapable tail shocks (IS). Glucose, nonesterified free fatty acids (NEFAs), insulin, leptin, and corticosterone were measured in plasma and tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-)α, interleukin- (IL-) 1β, IL-6, and IL-10 in plasma, and subcutaneous, intraperitoneal, and visceral compartments of white adipose tissue (WAT). In control rats, a 24 h fast reduced all measured basal cytokines in plasma and visceral WAT, IL-1βand IL-6 in subcutaneous WAT, and IL-6 in intraperitoneal WAT. In stressed rats (IS), fasting reduced visceral WAT TNF-α, subcutaneous WAT IL-1β, and plasma insulin and leptin. Short-term fasting may thus prove to be a useful dietary strategy for reducing peripheral inflammatory states associated with visceral obesity and chronic stress.
Cloning, Expression, and Characterization of Prophenoloxidases from Asian Corn Borer,Ostrinia furnacalis(Gunée)
Authors: Zhang Shasha , Hong Fang , Song He , Wang Lei , Liu Qizhi , An Chunju
Published: December 2016

Insect phenoloxidase (PO) belongs to the type 3 copper protein family and possesses oxidoreductase activities. PO is typically synthesized as a zymogen called prophenoloxidase (PPO) and requires the proteolytic activation to function. We here cloned full-length cDNA for 3 previously unidentified PPOs, which we named OfPPO1a, OfPPO1b, and OfPPO3, from Asian corn borer,Ostrinia furnacalis(Gunée), in addition to the previously known OfPPO2. These conceptual PPOs and OfPPO2 all contain two common copper-binding regions, two potential proteolytic activation sites, a plausible thiol-ester site, and a conserved C-terminal region but lack a secretion signal peptide sequence at the N-terminus.O. furnacalisPPOs were highly similar to other insect PPOs (42% to 79% identity) and clustered well with other lepidopteran PPOs. RT-PCR assay showed the transcripts of the 4 OfPPOs were all detected at the highest level in hemocytes and at the increased amounts after exposure to infection by bacteria and fungi. Additionally, we established anEscherichia coli(E. coli) expression system to produce recombinantO. furnacalisPPO proteins for future use in investigating their functions. These insights could provide valuable information for better understanding the activation and functioning mechanisms ofO. furnacalisPPOs.
The Role of BRCA2 Mutation Status as Diagnostic, Predictive, and Prognosis Biomarker for Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Martinez-Useros Javier , Garcia-Foncillas Jesus
Published: December 2016

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide, and life expectancy after diagnosis is often short. Most pancreatic tumours appear sporadically and have been highly related to habits such as cigarette smoking, high alcohol intake, high carbohydrate, and sugar consumption. Other observational studies have suggested the association between pancreatic cancer and exposure to arsenic, lead, or cadmium. Aside from these factors, chronic pancreatitis and diabetes have also come to be considered as risk factors for these kinds of tumours. Studies have found that 10% of pancreatic cancer cases arise from an inherited syndrome related to some genetic alterations. One of these alterations includes mutation inBRCA2gene.BRCA2mutations impair DNA damage response and homologous recombination by direct regulation of RAD51. In light of these findings that link genetic factors to tumour development, DNA damage agents have been proposed as target therapies for pancreatic cancer patients carryingBRCA2mutations. Some of these drugs include platinum-based agents and PARP inhibitors. However, the acquired resistance to PARP inhibitors has created a need for new chemotherapeutic strategies to targetBRCA2.The present systematic review collects and analyses the role ofBRCA2alterations to be used in early diagnosis of an inherited syndrome associated with familiar cancer and as a prognostic and predictive biomarker for the management of pancreatic cancer patients.
The Double-Row Suture Technique: A Better Option for the Treatment of Haglund Syndrome
Authors: Jiang Yiqiu , Li Yang , Tao Tianqi , Li Wang , Zhang Kaibin , Gui Jianchao , Ma Yong
Published: December 2016

Purpose. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether double-row suture technique is a better option for the treatment of Haglund syndrome than single-row suture technique regarding the surgical outcomes. Methods. Thirty-two patients with Haglund syndrome were recruited in this study. Patients were divided into Group 1 (treated with single-row suture technique) and Group 2 (treated with double-row suture technique). There were 16 patients in each group. The AOFAS-ankle-hindfoot scale, VISA-A scores, and Arner-Lindholm standard were used to assess the clinical outcomes. The pre- and postoperative X-rays were used to assess the radiological outcome. Results. Both AOFAS-ankle-hindfoot scale score and VISA-A score had varying degrees of improvement in both groups. In latest follow-up assessment, the Arner-Lindholm standard investigation showed there were 7 excellent, 7 good, and 2 bad outcomes in Group 1 and 12 excellent and 4 good outcomes in Group 2. In Group 2 patients, there were no more posterosuperior bony prominence of the calcaneum in post-op X-rays and there were no recurrent cases. The ankle-related scale score was statistically significantly higher in Group 2 than in Group 1 (P=0.029). Conclusion. The double-row suture technique seems to be a better option to treat Haglund syndrome than single-row suture technique.
Crystallization Kinetics of Al-Fe and Al-Fe-Y Amorphous Alloys Produced by Mechanical Milling
Authors: Nguyen Viet H. , Nguyen Oanh T. H. , Dudina Dina V. , Le Vinh V. , Kim Ji-Soon
Published: December 2016

In this work, the effect of a slight change in the composition of the Al-Fe amorphous alloys (from Al84Fe16to Al82Fe18) and the substitution of Y for Al (2 at.%) on their crystallization kinetics was studied. According to the X-ray diffraction analysis, powders of the Al84Fe16, Al82Fe18, and Al82Fe16Y2alloys with a fully amorphous structure were formed after 100 h of mechanical milling of the mixtures of the elemental powders. The crystallization behavior of the alloys was also studied by transmission electron microscopy. Upon heating up to a temperature of the first exothermic peak,α-Al crystals precipitated from the amorphous Al84Fe16matrix. During crystallization of the Al82Fe18alloy, crystals of the Al6Fe intermetallic compound formed along withα-Al crystals. Substitution of Y for 2 at.% of Al in the Al82Fe16Y2alloy made crystallization of the alloy more complicated:α-Al, Al6Fe, and Fe4Y crystals coexisted with an amorphous phase. The activation energies corresponding to the first crystallization event of the alloys were calculated using the Kissinger and Ozawa methods. The values obtained by these two methods were in good agreement with each other and the same trends of changing with the alloy composition were observed. The Avrami exponentnwas determined from the Johnson-Mehl-Avrami equation and showed that crystallization at the first stage is interface-controlled growth for all the three powder alloys studied.
Experiments on Detection of Voiced Hesitations in Russian Spontaneous Speech
Authors: Verkhodanova Vasilisa , Shapranov Vladimir
Published: December 2016

The development and popularity of voice-user interfaces made spontaneous speech processing an important research field. One of the main focus areas in this field is automatic speech recognition (ASR) that enables the recognition and translation of spoken language into text by computers. However, ASR systems often work less efficiently for spontaneous than for read speech, since the former differs from any other type of speech in many ways. And the presence of speech disfluencies is its prominent characteristic. These phenomena are an important feature in human-human communication and at the same time they are a challenging obstacle for the speech processing tasks. In this paper we address an issue of voiced hesitations (filled pauses and sound lengthenings) detection in Russian spontaneous speech by utilizing different machine learning techniques, from grid search and gradient descent in rule-based approaches to such data-driven ones as ELM and SVM based on the automatically extracted acoustic features. Experimental results on the mixed and quality diverse corpus of spontaneous Russian speech indicate the efficiency of the techniques for the task in question, with SVM outperforming other methods.
Periosteal Distraction Osteogenesis: An Effective Method for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Zhao Danyang , Wang Yu , Han Dong
Published: December 2016

The treatment of bone defects is challenging and controversial. As a new technology, periosteal distraction osteogenesis (PDO) uses the osteogenicity of periosteum, which creates an artificial space between the bone surface and periosteum to generate new bone by gradually expanding the periosteum with no need for corticotomy. Using the newly formed bone of PDO to treat bone defects is effective, which can not only avoid the occurrence of immune-related complications, but also solve the problem of insufficient donor. This review elucidates the availability of PDO in the aspects of mechanisms, devices, strategies, and measures. Moreover, we also focus on the future prospects of PDO and hope that PDO will be applied to the clinical treatment of bone defects in the future.
Colonoscopic Splenic Injury: A Simplified Radiologic Approach
Authors: Chen Tara , Tong Qiu , Kurchin Alexander
Published: December 2016

Colonoscopy is a commonly performed procedure for diagnosis and treatment of large bowel diseases. Recognized complications include bleeding and perforation. Splenic injury during colonoscopy is a rare complication. We report a case of a 73-year-old woman who presented with left-sided abdominal pain after colonoscopy with finding of splenic injury on CT scan. She was managed conservatively. We discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to colonoscopic splenic injury.
Synthesis and Bacteriostatic Activities of Bis(thiourea) Derivatives with Variable Chain Length
Authors: Abd Halim Ainaa Nadiah , Ngaini Zainab
Published: December 2016

A series of 1,4-bis(decoxyphenyl)carbamothioyl-terephthalamide derivatives was successfully synthesised by reaction of benzene-1,4-dicarbonyl isothiocyanate intermediates with long alkyl chain. The alkylation was performed via Williamson etherification of 4-acetamidophenol with bromoalkanes. The synthesised bis(thiourea) derivatives differed in the chain length, CnH2n+1, wheren=10, 12, and 14. The structures of all compounds were characterised by elemental CHN analysis, IR,1H, and13C NMR spectroscopies. Bacteriostatic activities of bis(thiourea derivatives which consisted of two folds of N-H, C=O, and C=S and long alkyl chain substituents were carried out against Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, ATCC 25922) via turbidimetric kinetic method. Bis(thiourea) derivatives withn=10andn=12displayed excellent activity againstE. coliwith MIC of 135 µg/mL and 145 µg/mL, respectively, while bis(thiourea) derivatives withn=14acted as cutoff point with no antibacterial properties. Similar trend was observed in binding affinity to the active site of enoyl ACP reductase (FabI), which demonstrated binding free energy of-5.3 Kcal/mol and-4.9and-4.8 Kcal/mol, respectively.
Antidepressant‐Like Effect of Lipid Extract of Channa striatus in Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress Model of Depression in Rats
Authors: Abdul Shukkoor Mohamed Saleem , Baharuldin Mohamad Taufik Hidayat Bin , Mat Jais Abdul Manan , Mohamad Moklas Mohamad Aris , Fakurazi Sharida
Published: December 2016

This study evaluated the antidepressant‐like effect of lipid extract of C. striatus in chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model of depression in male rats and its mechanism of action. The animals were subjected to CUMS for six weeks by using variety of stressors. At the end of CUMS protocol, animals were subjected to forced swimming test (FST) and open field test followed by biochemical assay. The CUMS protocol produced depressive‐like behavior in rats by decreasing the body weight, decreasing the sucrose preference, and increasing the duration of immobility in FST. The CUMS protocol increased plasma corticosterone and decreased hippocampal and prefrontal cortex levels of monoamines (serotonin, noradrenaline, and dopamine) and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor. Further, the CUMS protocol increased interleukin‐6 (in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex) and nuclear factor‐kappa B (in prefrontal cortex but not in hippocampus). The lipid extract of C. striatus (125, 250, and 500 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.05) reversed all the above parameters in rats subjected to CUMS, thus exhibiting antidepressant‐like effect. The mechanism was found to be mediated through decrease in plasma corticosterone, increase in serotonin levels in prefrontal cortex, increase in dopamine and noradrenaline levels in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, increase in BDNF in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, and decrease in IL‐6 and NF‐κB in prefrontal cortex.
Undifferentiated Malignant Neoplasm Involving Parotid and Thyroid: Sampling and PAX8 Cross-Reactivity Can Obscure the Diagnosis of Lymphoma
Authors: Hubbard Elizabeth W. , Nodit Laurentia , Van Meter Stuart
Published: December 2016

Poorly differentiated malignant neoplasia arising within the head and neck region may originate from diverse sources. We report a case of a cytologically undifferentiated malignant neoplasm clinically presenting as masses involving thyroid and parotid. Although PAX8 was immunoreactive and thus worrisome for anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, the tumor was eventually proven to represent PAX5 positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma expressing cross-reactivity with polyclonal PAX8 antibody. Cross-reactivity between commercially available polyclonal PAX8 and PAX5 immunostains has been described in the literature but is not widely known, and it is a potential pitfall for making a misdiagnosis. This distinction can have importance in selection of subsequent clinical therapy and should be considered in choice of immunohistochemical stains for diagnostic purposes.
Rapid Fatal Outcome of Cryptococcal Meningoencephalitis in a Non-HIV Immunocompromised Patient with a Low Fluconazole Susceptibility Isolate: A Case Report from Madagascar
Authors: Raberahona Mihaja , Rakotoarivelo Rivonirina A. , Randriamampionona Njary , Rakotomalala Angelot F. , Razafinambinintsoa Tiana , Bénet Thomas , Vanhems Philippe , Randria Mamy J. D. D. , Cornet Muriel , Rakoto-Andrianarivelo Mala
Published: December 2016

Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis is considered rare in HIV-negative individuals. In Madagascar, the epidemiology of cryptococcosis has not yet been well described, neither in immunocompetent nor in immunocompromised patients. We report here the first Malagasy detailed case of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis in a non-HIV immunocompromised adult patient carrying a low fluconazole susceptibility isolate. We emphasize the importance of early and accurate diagnosis to meet the challenges of managing cryptococcosis in developing countries.
Paramagnetic Manganese in the Atherosclerotic Plaque of Carotid Arteries
Authors: Chelyshev Yury , Gafurov Marat , Ignatyev Igor , Zanochkin Alexey , Mamin Georgy , Sorokin Boris , Sorokina Alexandra , Lyapkalo Natalya , Gizatullina Nazima , Mukhamedshina Yana , Orlinskii Sergei
Published: December 2016

The search for adequate markers of atherosclerotic plaque (AP) instability in the context of assessment of the ischemic stroke risk in patients with atherosclerosis of the carotid arteries as well as for solid physical and chemical factors that are connected with the AP stability is extremely important. We investigate the inner lining of the carotid artery specimens from the male patients with atherosclerosis (27 patients, 42–64 years old) obtained during carotid endarterectomy by using different analytical tools including ultrasound angiography, X-ray analysis, immunological, histochemical analyses, and high-field (3.4 T) pulse electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) at 94 GHz. No correlation between the stable and unstable APs in the sense of the calcification is revealed. In all of the investigated samples, the EPR spectra of manganese, namely, Mn2+ions, are registered. Spectral and relaxation characteristics of Mn2+ions are close to those obtained for the synthetic (nano) hydroxyapatite species but differ from each other for stable and unstable APs. This demonstrates that AP stability could be specified by the molecular organization of their hydroxyapatite components. The origin of the obtained differences and the possibility of using EPR of Mn2+as an AP stability marker are discussed.
Synthesis of Silicon-Containing Chitosan Hydrogels in a Glycolic Acid Medium
Authors: Shipovskaya A. B. , Malinkina O. N. , Zhuravleva Yu. Yu. , Rogacheva S. M.
Published: December 2016

The present paper considers a “one-pot” green sol-gel synthesis of hybrid inorganic/organic hydrogels based on chitosan glycolate by using organically modified silica Si(OGly)4·2GlyOH as a precursor to form a network of ≡Si–O–Si≡ bonds at 4, 20, and 37°C. The gelation time of the multicomponent chitosan-containing system was estimated as a function of the composition (the polymer template and precursor concentrations, introduction of a low-molecular-weight accelerator NaCl) and gelation conditions (the pH and temperature of the sol-gel process). It has been shown that an increased polymeric salt concentration, the introduction of an accelerator, and increased pH and temperature accelerate the gel-forming process.
Prospective Study to Assess Progression of Renal Markers after Interruption of Tenofovir due to Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Bonjoch Anna , Echeverría Patricia , Perez-Alvarez Núria , Puig Jordi , Estany Carla , Clotet Bonaventura , Negredo Eugènia
Published: December 2016

Background. Prospective studies about the reversibility of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate- (TDF-) related renal impairment remain scarce.Methods. This is an observational prospective study including all patients that presented at our HIV Unit who interrupted TDF owing to nephrotoxicity. We assessed the evolution of renal parameters after discontinuation of this drug.Results. We included 59 patients, who were followed up for 72 weeks. Most were male (41, 69.5%), median (IQR) age was 53 (44; 58) years, and median time receiving TDF-containing regimens was 55.4 (28; 87.7) months. Most patients were receiving PI-based treatments (67%). At the final visit, most of the subjects showed complete recovery (35, 59.3%) or improvement (13 subjects, 22%). Significant improvements were observed in creatinine levels (from 84.9 [73.8; 97.5] to 78 [69.6; 91] μmol/L,p=0.013), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, CKD EPI equation, from 87.7 [67; 99] to 89.9 [73.6; 99.3] mL/min/1.73 m2,p=0.017), and number of patients with eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2(from 9 [15.3%] to 1 [1.7%],p=0.031). A trend toward significance was observed in abnormal urine proteinuria/creatinine ratio (from 22 [37%] to 8 [13.6%],p=0.057).Conclusions. Our results corroborate the high frequency of complete or partial renal recovery in patients receiving TDF-containing regimens who discontinued therapy owing to nephrotoxicity.
Surface Modification of Asymmetric Polysulfone/Polyethylene Glycol Membranes by DC Ar-Glow Discharge Plasma
Authors: Yuenyao Chalad , Chittrakarn Thawat , Tirawanichakul Yutthana , Sirijarukul Suksawat
Published: December 2016

Polysulfone/polyethylene glycol (PSF/PEG) membranes were prepared by dry/wet phase inversion method. Effects of direct current glow discharge plasma using argon as working gas on morphological structures and gas separation properties of membranes were studied. Alteration of membrane characteristics were analyzed by various techniques like contact angle, scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis. Gas separation properties were measured in terms of permeation and ideal O2/N2 selectivity. Results showed that hydrophilic and gas separation properties of PSF/PEG membranes increased by plasma surface modification. It was also shown that the dosage of PEG and plasma treatment affected the morphological structures and mechanical and gas separation properties. The macro voids and transmembrane structure disappeared with a little amount of PEG dosage. Pore size and mechanical strength tend to decrease with increasing PEG dosage up to 10 wt%. Glass transition temperature (Tg) receded from 201.8 to 143.7°C for pure PSF and PSF/PEG with PEG dosage of 10 wt%. O2 and N2 gases permeation through the 10-minute plasma treated membranes tend to increase. However, the permeation strongly dispersed when treatment time was more extended.
Squeeze Film Dampers Executing Small Amplitude Circular-Centered Orbits in High-Speed Turbomachinery
Authors: Hamzehlouia Sina , Behdinan Kamran
Published: December 2016

This work represents a pressure distribution model for finite length squeeze film dampers (SFDs) executing small amplitude circular-centered orbits (CCOs) with application in high-speed turbomachinery design. The proposed pressure distribution model only accounts for unsteady (temporal) inertia terms, since based on order of magnitude analysis, for small amplitude motions of the journal center, the effect of convective inertia is negligible relative to unsteady (temporal) inertia. In this work, the continuity equation and the momentum transport equations for incompressible lubricants are reduced by assuming that the shapes of the fluid velocity profiles are not strongly influenced by the inertia forces, obtaining an extended form of Reynolds equation for the hydrodynamic pressure distribution that accounts for fluid inertia effects. Furthermore, a numerical procedure is represented to discretize the model equations by applying finite difference approximation (FDA) and to numerically determine the pressure distribution and fluid film reaction forces in SFDs with significant accuracy. Finally, the proposed model is incorporated into a simulation model and the results are compared against existing SFD models. Based on the simulation results, the pressure distribution and fluid film reaction forces are significantly influenced by fluid inertia effects even at small and moderate Reynolds numbers.
Efficiency of an Active Rehabilitation Intervention in a Slow-to-Recover Paediatric Population following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: A Pilot Study
Authors: Imhoff Sarah , Fait Philippe , Carrier-Toutant Frédérike , Boulard Geneviève
Published: December 2016

Objective. The aim of this study was to identify whether the addition of an individualised Active Rehabilitation Intervention to standard care influences recovery of young patients who are slow-to-recover following a mTBI.Methods. Fifteen participants aged15±2years received standard care and an individualised Active Rehabilitation Intervention which included (1) low- to high-intensity aerobic training; (2) sport-specific coordination exercises; and (3) therapeutic balance exercises. The following criteria were used to measure the resolution of signs and symptoms of mTBI: (1) absence of postconcussion symptoms for more than 7 consecutive days; (2) cognitive function corresponding to normative data; and (3) absence of deficits in coordination and balance.Results. The Active Rehabilitation Intervention lasted49±17days. The duration of the intervention was correlated with self-reported participation (x-=84.64±19.63%,r=-0.792,p<0.001). The average postconcussion symptom inventory (PCSI) score went from a total of36.85±23.21points to4.31±5.04points after the intervention (Z=-3.18,p=0.001).Conclusion. A progressive submaximal Active Rehabilitation Intervention may represent an important asset in the recovery of young patients who are slow-to-recover following a mTBI.
Application of Computed Tomography Processed by Picture Archiving and Communication Systems in the Diagnosis of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture
Authors: Xue Hai-Peng , Liu Xin-Wei , Tian Jing , Xie Bing , Yang Chao , Zhang Hao , Zhou Da-Peng
Published: December 2016

The applications of CT examination in the diagnosis of the acute Achilles tendon rupture (AATR) were investigated. A total of 36 patients with suspected acute Achilles tendon rupture were tested using physical examination, ultrasound, and 3DCT scanning, respectively. Then, surgery was performed for the patients who showed positive result in at least two of the three tests for AATR. 3DVR, MPR, and the other CT scan image processing and diagnosis were conducted in PACS (picture archiving and communication system). PACS was also used to measure the length of distal broken ends of the Achilles tendon (AT) to tendon calcaneal insertion. Our study indicated that CT has the highest accuracy in diagnosis of acute Achilles tendon complete rupture. The length measurement is matched between PACS and those actually measured in operation. CT not only demonstrates more details directly in three dimensions especially with the rupture involved calcaneal insertion flap but also locates the rupture region for percutaneous suture by measuring the length of distal stump in PACS without the effect of the position of ankle. The accuracy of CT diagnosis for Achilles tendon partial rupture is yet to be studied.
Comparative Genomics ofH. pyloriand Non-PyloriHelicobacterSpecies to Identify New Regions Associated with Its Pathogenicity and Adaptability
Authors: Cao De-Min , Lu Qun-Feng , Li Song-Bo , Wang Ju-Ping , Chen Yu-Li , Huang Yan-Qiang , Bi Hong-Kai
Published: December 2016

The genusHelicobacteris a group of Gram-negative, helical-shaped pathogens consisting of at least 36 bacterial species.Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori), infecting more than 50% of the human population, is considered as the major cause of gastritis, peptic ulcer, and gastric cancer. However, the genetic underpinnings ofH. pylorithat are responsible for its large scale epidemic and gastrointestinal environment adaption within human beings remain unclear. Core-pan genome analysis was performed among 75 representativeH. pyloriand 24 non-pylori Helicobactergenomes. There were 1173 conserved protein families ofH. pyloriand 673 of all 99Helicobactergenus strains. We found 79 genome unique regions, a total of 202,359bp, shared by at least 80% of theH. pyloribut lacked in non-pylori Helicobacterspecies. The operons, genes, and sRNAs within theH. pyloriunique regions were considered as potential ones associated with its pathogenicity and adaptability, and the relativity among them has been partially confirmed by functional annotation analysis. However, functions of at least 54 genes and 10 sRNAs were still unclear. Our analysis of protein-protein interaction showed that 30 genes within them may have the cooperation relationship.
Lactate, a Neglected Factor for Diabetes and Cancer Interaction
Authors: Wu Yong , Dong Yunzhou , Atefi Mohammad , Liu Yanjun , Elshimali Yahya , Vadgama Jaydutt V.
Published: December 2016

Increasing body of evidence suggests that there exists a connection between diabetes and cancer. Nevertheless, to date, the potential reasons for this association are still poorly understood and currently there is no clinical evidence available to direct the proper management of patients presenting with these two diseases concomitantly. Both cancer and diabetes have been associated with abnormal lactate metabolism and high level of lactate production is the key biological property of these diseases. Conversely, high lactate contribute to a higher insulin resistant status and a more malignant phenotype of cancer cells, promoting diabetes and cancer development and progression. In view of associations between diabetes and cancers, the role of high lactate production in diabetes and cancer interaction should not be neglected. Here, we review the available evidence of lactate’s role in different biological characteristics of diabetes and cancer and interactive relationship between them. Understanding the molecular mechanisms behind metabolic remodeling of diabetes- and cancer-related signaling would endow novel preventive and therapeutic approaches for diabetes and cancer treatment.
Influence of Processing Methods on Proximate Composition and Dieting of TwoAmaranthusSpecies from West Cameroon
Authors: Suffo Kamela Arnaud Landry , Mouokeu Raymond Simplice , Ashish Rawson , Maffo Tazoho Ghislain , Glory Moh Lamye , Pamo Tedonkeng Etienne , Kuiate Jules-Roger
Published: December 2016

The effects of various processing methods on the proximate composition and dieting ofAmaranthus hybridusandAmaranthus cruentusfrom West Cameroon were investigated in this study. Both amaranths leaves were subjected to same treatments (sun-dried and unsliced, sliced and cooked), milled, and analysed for their mineral and proximate composition. Thirty-SixWistaralbino rats of 21 to 24 days old were distributed in six groups and fed for 14 days with 10% protein based diets named D0 (protein-free diet), DI (egg white as reference protein), DII (sun-dried and unslicedA. hybridus), DIII (cooked and slicedA. hybridus), DIV (sun-dried and unslicedA. cruentus), and DV (cooked and slicedA. cruentus). The protein bioavailability and haematological and biochemical parameters were assessed in rats. The results showed that K, P, Mg, Zn, and Fe had the higher content in both samples regardless of processing method. The sun-dried and unslicedA. cruentuscontained the highest value of crude protein 32.22 g/100 g DM (dry matter) while the highest crude lipid, 3.80 and 2.58%, was observed, respectively, in sun-dried and unslicedA. hybridusand cooked and slicedA. cruentus. Cooked and slicedA. hybridusandA. cruentuscontained high crude fiber of 14 and 12.18%, respectively. Rats fed with diet DIII revealed the best protein bioavailability and haematological parameters whereas 100% mortality rate was recorded with group fed with diet DIV. From this study, it is evident that cooked and slicedA. hybridusandA. cruentuscould play a role in weight reduction regimes.
Atypical Presentation of Idiopathic Bilateral Optic Perineuritis in a Young Patient
Authors: Tevaraj Jessica Mani Penny , Tai Li Min Evelyn , Mohd-Noor Raja-Azmi , Thavaratnam Lakana Kumar , Salmah Win Mar , Wan Hitam Wan Hazabbah
Published: December 2016

A previously healthy 27-year-old Malay male presented with acute onset of painless, severe blurring of vision in his right eye. It was associated with headache and vomiting for the past week. Relative afferent pupillary defect was present in the right eye, with reduced optic nerve function. Patient also had bilateral generalised optic disc swelling, splinter haemorrhages, and tortuous vessels. Initial examination was suggestive of either optic neuritis or raised intracranial pressure. Typical features of bilateral optic perineuritis (OPN) such as tram track and doughnut sign were observed on magnetic resonance imaging. Connective tissue and infective screening were negative. He was diagnosed with bilateral optic perineuritis and treated with high dose intravenous corticosteroids followed by a three-month course of oral steroids. His vision and optic nerve function recovered to baseline levels.
Distribution of Suicin Gene Clusters in Streptococcus suis Serotype 2 Belonging to Sequence Types 25 and 28
Authors: Athey Taryn B. T. , Vaillancourt Katy , Frenette Michel , Fittipaldi Nahuel , Gottschalk Marcelo , Grenier Daniel
Published: December 2016

Recently, we reported the purification and characterization of three distinct lantibiotics (named suicin 90-1330, suicin 3908, and suicin 65) produced by Streptococcus suis. In this study, we investigated the distribution of the three suicin lantibiotic gene clusters among serotype 2 S. suis strains belonging to sequence type (ST) 25 and ST28, the two dominant STs identified in North America. The genomes of 102 strains were interrogated for the presence of suicin gene clusters encoding suicins 90-1330, 3908, and 65. The gene cluster encoding suicin 65 was the most prevalent and mainly found among ST25 strains. In contrast, none of the genes related to suicin 90-1330 production were identified in 51 ST25 strains nor in 35/51 ST28 strains. However, the complete suicin 90-1330 gene cluster was found in ten ST28 strains, although some genes in the cluster were truncated in three of these isolates. The vast majority (101/102) of S. suis strains did not possess any of the genes encoding suicin 3908. In conclusion, this study indicates heterogeneous distribution of suicin genes in S. suis.
Flame Spray Synthesis and Ammonia Sensing Properties of Pure α-MoO3 Nanosheets
Authors: Jodhani Gagan , Huang Jiahao , Gouma Perena
Published: December 2016

This paper highlights the flame spray synthesis of α-MoO3 using ammonium molybdate as precursor. The as-synthesized particles obtained were found to be ammonium molybdenum oxide and belonged to the triclinic crystal system. The particles crystallized to α-MoO3 upon thermal treatment at 500°C. Sensors were prepared by drop coating the powders onto alumina substrates coated with platinum electrodes and sensing tests were conducted evaluating the detection of ammonia concentrations down to ppb level concentration in air. The flame synthesized α-MoO3 based sensors show high sensitivity towards ammonia and may potentially be used in breath ammonia gas diagnostics.
Research Advances on Hepatotoxicity of Herbal Medicines in China
Authors: Liu Changxiao , Fan Huirong , Li Yazhuo , Xiao Xiaohe
Published: December 2016

In general, herbal medicines have been considered as safe by the general public, since they are naturally occurring and have been applied in treatment for over thousands of years. As the use of herbal medicine is rapidly increasing globally, the potential toxicity of herbal drugs, in particular drug-induced liver injury (DILI), has now become a serious medical issue. According to the literature, the authors analyzed and discussed the hepatotoxicity problem of Chinese herbal medicines (CHM), including global overview on herbal-induced liver injury (HILI), current research progress on toxic CHM, diagnosis and treatment of HILI, and modern approaches and technologies of study of hepatotoxicity. As to promote the recognition of HILI and tackle the issue, a guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of HILI has recently been drafted by Chinese scientists. As suggested by the guideline, the hepatotoxicity issue of CHM, as a matter of fact, is overestimated. Up to date, the investigation of hepatotoxicity of CHM is now booming with worldwide application of CHM. This review therefore provides useful information for investigating hepatotoxicity of herbal medicine and characterizing DILI caused by CHM. In addition, authors describe in which way further efforts should be made to study the rationale of CHM and liver injury.
Stored Coulomb Self-Energy of a Uniformly Charged Rectangular Plate
Authors: Ciftja Orion
Published: December 2016

A large number of electronic devices contain charged, flat plates (electrodes) as their components. The approximation of considering such components as infinitely large plates is not satisfactory for the current status of consumer electronics where size is now extremely small. In particular, the nanotechnology revolution has made the fabrication of truly finite systems with arbitrary shape and characteristic lengths that measure in nanometers possible. As a result the only accurate approach for such situations is to consider the system realistically as one with a finite size extent. In this work we calculate the amount of electrostatic energy that is stored in a charged finite size electrode that is modelled as a uniformly charged rectangular plate with arbitrary length and width. Nontrivial mathematical transformations allow us to derive a closed form exact expression for the Coulomb self-energy of such a system as a function of its length and width (therefore, shape, too). The exact result derived can be useful to understand the storage process of electrostatic energy as a function of size/shape in uniformly charged plate systems. The result also applies to calculations that deal with the properties of a finite two-dimensional electron gas within the jellium model where the finite jellium domain can have an arbitrary rectangular shape.
Dendritic Fibromyxolipoma of the Pyriform Sinus: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: AlAbdulsalam Abdulrahim , Arafah Maha
Published: December 2016

Dendritic fibromyxolipoma is a rare and distinctive soft tissue neoplasm that is considered by many authors as a variant of spindle cell lipoma and characterized by the presence of dendritic cytoplasmic processes, plexiform vascular pattern, and keloidal collagen. It has never been reported in the larynx and hypopharynx. Its rarity and the potential to mistake it as a more clinically aggressive myxoid soft tissue neoplasm highlight the importance of its recognition. Here, a case of a dendritic fibromyxolipoma of the pyriform sinus in a 38-year-old male who presented with dysphagia, change of voice, and stridor is reported. A review of the literature, including histopathologic features and differential diagnosis, is also included.
Three‐Dimensional Bioprinting Nanotechnologies towards Clinical Application of Stem Cells and Their Secretome in Salivary Gland Regeneration
Authors: Ferreira Joao N. , Rungarunlert Sasitorn , Urkasemsin Ganokon , Adine Christabella , Souza Glauco R.
Published: December 2016

Salivary gland (SG) functional damage and severe dry mouth (or xerostomia) are commonly observed in a wide range of medical conditions from autoimmune to metabolic disorders as well as after radiotherapy to treat specific head and neck cancers. No effective therapy has been developed to completely restore the SG functional damage on the long‐term and reverse the poor quality of life of xerostomia patients. Cell‐ and secretome‐based strategies are currently being tested in vitro and in vivo for the repair and/or regeneration of the damaged SG using (1) epithelial SG stem/progenitor cells from salispheres or explant cultures as well as (2) nonepithelial stem cell types and/or their bioactive secretome. These strategies will be the focus of our review. Herein, innovative 3D bioprinting nanotechnologies for the generation of organotypic cultures and SG organoids/mini‐glands will also be discussed. These bioprinting technologies will allow researchers to analyze the secretome components and extracellular matrix production, as well as their biofunctional effects in 3D mini‐glands ex vivo. Improving our understanding of the SG secretome is critical to develop effective secretome‐based therapies towards the regeneration and/or repair of all SG compartments for proper restoration of saliva secretion and flow into the oral cavity.
Normal Non-HDL Cholesterol, Low Total Cholesterol, and HDL Cholesterol Levels in Sickle Cell Disease Patients in the Steady State: A Case-Control Study of Tema Metropolis
Authors: Ephraim Richard K. D. , Adu Patrick , Ake Edem , Agbodzakey Hope , Adoba Prince , Cudjoe Obed , Agoni Clement
Published: December 2016

Background.Abnormal lipid homeostasis in sickle cell disease (SCD) is characterized by defects in plasma and erythrocyte lipids and may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. This study assessed the lipid profile and non-HDL cholesterol level of SCD patients.Methods.A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 50 SCD patients, in the steady state, aged 8–28 years, attending the SCD clinic, and 50 healthy volunteers between the ages of 8–38 years. Serum lipids were determined by enzymatic methods and non-HDL cholesterol calculated by this formula: non-HDL-C = TC-HDL-C.Results.Total cholesterol (TC) (p=0.001) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (p<0.0001) were significantly decreased in cases compared to controls. The levels of non-HDL-C, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglyceride (TG) were similar among the participants. The levels of decrease in TC and HDL were associated with whether a patient was SCD-SS or SCD-SC. Systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were each significantly associated with increased VLDL [SBP,p=0.01, OR: 0.74 (CI: 0.6–0.93); DBP,p=0.023, OR: 1.45 (CI: 1.05–2.0)].Conclusion.Dyslipidemia is common among participants in this study. It was more pronounced in the SCD-SS than in SCD-SC. This dyslipidemia was associated with high VLDL as well as increased SBP and DBP.
Catalase-Based Modified Graphite Electrode for Hydrogen Peroxide Detection in Different Beverages
Authors: Fusco Giovanni , Bollella Paolo , Mazzei Franco , Favero Gabriele , Antiochia Riccarda , Tortolini Cristina
Published: December 2016

A catalase-based (NAF/MWCNTs) nanocomposite film modified glassy carbon electrode for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) detection was developed. The developed biosensor was characterized in terms of its bioelectrochemical properties. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) technique was employed to study the redox features of the enzyme in the absence and in the presence of nanomaterials dispersed in Nafion® polymeric solution. The electron transfer coefficient,α, and the electron transfer rate constant,ks, were found to be 0.42 and 1.71 s−1, at pH 7.0, respectively. Subsequently, the same modification steps were applied to mesoporous graphite screen-printed electrodes. Also, these electrodes were characterized in terms of their main electrochemical and kinetic parameters. The biosensor performances improved considerably after modification with nanomaterials. Moreover, the association of Nafion with carbon nanotubes retained the biological activity of the redox protein. The enzyme electrode response was linear in the range 2.5–1150 μmol L−1, with LOD of 0.83 μmol L−1. From the experimental data, we can assess the possibility of using the modified biosensor as a useful tool for H2O2determination in packaged beverages.
Ophthalmologic Baseline Characteristics and 2-Year Ophthalmologic Safety Profile of Pramipexole IR Compared with Ropinirole IR in Patients with Early Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Seiple William , Jennings Danna , Rosen Richard B. , Borchert Leona , Canale Lee , Fagan Nora , Gordon Mark Forrest
Published: December 2016

Background.Parkinson’s disease (PD) progressively affects dopaminergic neurotransmission and may affect retinal dopaminergic functions and structures.Objective.This 2-year randomized, open-label, parallel-group, flexible-dose study,NCT00144300, evaluated ophthalmologic safety profiles of immediate-release (IR) pramipexole and ropinirole in patients with early idiopathic PD with ≤6 months’ prior dopamine agonist exposure and without preexisting major eye disorders.Methods.Patients received labeled IR regimens of pramipexole (n=121) or ropinirole (n=125) for 2 years. Comprehensive ophthalmologic assessments (COA) included corrected acuity, Roth 28-color test, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, intraocular pressure, computerized visual field test, fundus photography, and electroretinography.Results.At baseline, we observed retinal pigmentary epithelium (RPE) hypopigmentation not previously reported in PD patients. The estimated relative risk of 2-year COA worsening with pramipexole versus ropinirole was 1.07 (95% CI: 0.71–1.60). Mean changes from baseline in Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating System parts II+III total scores (pramipexole: 1 year, −4.1±8.9, and 2 years, −0.7±10.1, and ropinirole: 1 year, −3.7±8.2, and 2 years, −1.7±10.5) and Hoehn–Yahr stage distribution showed therapeutic effects on PD symptoms. Safety profiles were consistent with labeling.Conclusions.The risk of retinal deterioration did not differ in early idiopathic PD patients receiving pramipexole versus ropinirole. RPE hypopigmentation at baseline was not previously reported in this population. This trial is registered withNCT00144300.