bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Role of Estrogens in Lizard Spermatogenesis through the Study of Clomiphene and FSH Effects
Authors: Verderame Mariailaria , Scudiero Rosaria , Limatola Ermelinda
Published: December 2017

Spermatogenesis is a fascinating biological process aiming to generate haploid spermatozoa from diploid spermatogonia through a specific hormonal network between gonadotropins and steroids. Increasing evidence suggests that the primary female sex hormone estrogen plays an active role in this process. This research points out on the role of estrogen during lizard spermatogenesis by using three experimental approaches: (1) exposure to an analogue of nonsteroidal estrogen as Clomiphene citrate that acts both as estrogen agonist and antagonist; (2) exposure to the gonadotropin FSH; and (3) exposures to FSH followed by Clomiphene. Histological and immunohistochemical results demonstrate that in the lizardPodarcis siculaduring the mating period, Clomiphene as well as FSH determines the breakdown of spermatogenesis and the epididymal regression, presumably through estrogens input as indirectly demonstrated by the appearance of ERαand vitellogenin in the liver. The ability of Clomiphene to restore the gonadal natural condition after FSH treatment is also demonstrated. Finally, data indicate that lizard testis and epididymis control their morphophysiology regulating the intracellular presence of ERα.
Dimensionless Analytical Solution and New Design Formula for Lateral‐Torsional Buckling of I‐Beams under Linear Distributed Moment via Linear Stability Theory
Authors: Zhang Wen-Fu , Liu Ying-Chun , Chen Ke-Shan , Deng Yun
Published: December 2017

Even for the doubly symmetric I‐beams under linear distributed moment, the design formulas given by codes of different countries are quite different. This paper will derive a dimensionless analytical solution via linear stability theory and propose a new design formula of the critical moment of the lateral‐torsional buckling (LTB) of the simply supported I‐beams under linear distributed moment. Firstly, the assumptions of linear stability theory are reviewed, the dispute concerning the LTB energy equation is introduced, and then the thinking of Plate‐Beam Theory, which can be used to fully resolve the challenge presented by Ojalvo, is presented briefly; secondly, by introducing the new dimensionless coefficient of lateral deflection, the new dimensionless critical moment and Wagner’s coefficient are derived naturally from the total potential energy. With these independent parameters, the new dimensionless analytical buckling equation is obtained; thirdly, the convergence performance of the dimensionless analytical solution is discussed by numerical solutions and its correctness is verified by the numerical results given by ANSYS; finally, a new trilinear mathematical model is proposed as the benchmark of formulating the design formula and, with the help of 1stOpt software, the four coefficients used in the proposed dimensionless design formula are determined.
Oxidative Modification of Biomolecules in the Nonstimulated and Stimulated Saliva of Patients with Morbid Obesity Treated with Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Fejfer Katarzyna , Buczko Piotr , Niczyporuk Marek , Ładny Jerzy R. , Hady Hady R. , Knaś Małgorzata , Waszkiel Danuta , Klimiuk Anna , Zalewska Anna , Maciejczyk Mateusz
Published: December 2017

Morbid obesity leads to progressive failure of many human organs and systems; however, the role of oxidative damage to salivary composition is still unknown in the obese patients. In this study, we assessed the effect of bariatric surgery on oxidative damage in nonstimulated (NS) and stimulated (S) whole saliva. The study included 47 subjects with morbid obesity as well as 47 age- and gender-matched healthy volunteers. Oxidative modifications to lipids (4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and 8-isoprostanes (8-isoP)), proteins (advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) and protein carbonyl groups (PC)), and DNA (8-hydroxy-D-guanosine (8-OHdG)) were analyzed in morbidly obese patients before and after bariatric surgery as well as in the healthy controls. The concentrations of 8-isoP, AOPP, PC, and 8-OHdG were significantly higher in both NS and S of patients with morbid obesity than in the control patients and compared to the results obtained 6 months after bariatric surgery. The levels of oxidative damage markers were also higher in S versus NS of morbidly obese patients. In summary, morbid obesity is associated with oxidative damage to salivary proteins, lipids, and DNA, while bariatric treatment generally lowers the levels of salivary oxidative damage.
Effect of Dietary Chestnut or Quebracho Tannin Supplementation on Microbial Community and Fatty Acid Profile in the Rumen of Dairy Ewes
Authors: Buccioni Arianna , Pallara Grazia , Pastorelli Roberta , Bellini Letizia , Cappucci Alice , Mannelli Federica , Minieri Sara , Roscini Valentina , Rapaccini Stefano , Mele Marcello , Giovannetti Luciana , Viti Carlo , Pauselli Mariano
Published: December 2017

Ruminants derived products have a prominent role in diets and economy worldwide; therefore, the capability to control the rumen microbial ecosystem, for ameliorating their quality, is of fundamental importance in the livestock sector. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation with chestnut and quebracho tannins on microbial community and fatty acid profile, in the rumen fluid of dairy ewes. Multivariate analysis of PCR-DGGE profiles of rumen microbial communities showed a correlation among the presence of chestnut or quebracho in the diet, the specificButyrivibriogroup DGGE profiles, the increase in 18:3cis9,cis12, andcis15; 18:2cis9 andcis12; 18:2cis9 andtrans11; 18:2trans11 andcis15; and 18:1trans11 content, and the decrease in 18:0 concentration. Phylogenetic analysis of DGGE band sequences revealed the presence of bacteria representatives related to the generaHungatella,Ruminococcus, andEubacteriumand unclassified Lachnospiraceae family members, suggesting that these taxa could be affected by tannins presence in the diets. The results of this study showed that tannins from chestnut and quebracho can reduce the biohydrogenation of unsaturated fatty acids through changes in rumen microbial communities.
Dynamic Traffic Congestion Simulation and Dissipation Control Based on Traffic Flow Theory Model and Neural Network Data Calibration Algorithm
Authors: Wang Li , Lin Shimin , Yang Jingfeng , Zhang Nanfeng , Yang Ji , Li Yong , Zhou Handong , Yang Feng , Li Zhifu
Published: December 2017

Traffic congestion is a common problem in many countries, especially in big cities. At present, China’s urban road traffic accidents occur frequently, the occurrence frequency is high, the accident causes traffic congestion, and accidents cause traffic congestion and vice versa. The occurrence of traffic accidents usually leads to the reduction of road traffic capacity and the formation of traffic bottlenecks, causing the traffic congestion. In this paper, the formation and propagation of traffic congestion are simulated by using the improved medium traffic model, and the control strategy of congestion dissipation is studied. From the point of view of quantitative traffic congestion, the paper provides the fact that the simulation platform of urban traffic integration is constructed, and a feasible data analysis, learning, and parameter calibration method based on RBF neural network is proposed, which is used to determine the corresponding decision support system. The simulation results prove that the control strategy proposed in this paper is effective and feasible. According to the temporal and spatial evolution of the paper, we can see that the network has been improved on the whole.
Chemical Profiling of Polyfloral Belgian Honey: Ellagic Acid and Pinocembrin as Antioxidants and Chemical Markers
Authors: Jasicka-Misiak Izabela , Gruyaert Steven , Poliwoda Anna , Kafarski Paweł
Published: December 2017

Chemical profiling of northern Belgian polyfloral honeys was performed to analyse their phenolic compound content (flavonoids and phenolic acids). First, samples were subjected to a standard analysis of their physicochemical properties, and then, the phenolic fraction was isolated and analysed using a HPLC/PAD method. All of the tested honeys showed a common and specific phenolic profile that could be the basis for the differentiation of polyfloral honeys of the Antwerp region from other polyfloral honeys. Chromatographic data indicated a high content of ellagic acid (9.13–13.66 mg/100 g honey), as well as the flavonoid pinocembrin (1.60–1.85 mg/100 g honey) in these honeys. Ellagic acid, a compound with well-defined prohealth activities, might be used as a chemical marker for these honeys. With respect to total phenolic and flavonoid contents, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays were determined spectrophotometrically. The honey exhibited a moderate antioxidant activity, typical for light honeys.
Phenotypic and Functional Properties of Tumor-Infiltrating Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Lee Gap Ryol
Published: December 2017

Regulatory T (Treg) cells maintain immune homeostasis by suppressing excessive immune responses. Treg cells induce tolerance against self- and foreign antigens, thus preventing autoimmunity, allergy, graft rejection, and fetus rejection during pregnancy. However, Treg cells also infiltrate into tumors and inhibit antitumor immune responses, thus inhibiting anticancer therapy. Depleting whole Treg cell populations in the body to enhance anticancer treatments will produce deleterious autoimmune diseases. Therefore, understanding the precise nature of tumor-infiltrating Treg cells is essential for effectively targeting Treg cells in tumors. This review summarizes recent results relating to Treg cells in the tumor microenvironment, with particular emphasis on their accumulation, phenotypic, and functional properties, and targeting to enhance the efficacy of anticancer treatment.
Hederagenin Induces Apoptosis in Cisplatin‐Resistant Head and Neck Cancer Cells by Inhibiting the Nrf2‐ARE Antioxidant Pathway
Authors: Kim Eun Hye , Baek Seungho , Shin Daiha , Lee Jaewang , Roh Jong-Lyel
Published: December 2017

Acquired resistance to cisplatin is the most common reason for the failure of cisplatin chemotherapy. Hederagenin, triterpenoids extracted from ivy leaves, exhibits antitumor activity in various types of cancer. However, the therapeutic potential of hederagenin in head and neck cancer (HNC) has remained unclear. Therefore, we examined the effects of hederagenin in cisplatin‐resistant HNC cells and characterized its molecular mechanisms of action in this context. We evaluated the effects of hederagenin treatment on cell viability, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, glutathione levels, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), and protein and mRNA expression in HNC cells. The antitumor effect of hederagenin in mouse tumor xenograft models was also analyzed. Hederagenin selectively induced cell death in both cisplatin‐sensitive and cisplatin‐resistant HNC cells by promoting changes in ΔΨm and inducing apoptosis. Hederagenin inhibited the Nrf2‐antioxidant response element (ARE) pathway and activated p53 in HNC cells, thereby enhancing ROS production and promoting glutathione depletion. These effects were reversed by the antioxidant trolox. Hederagenin activated intrinsic apoptotic pathways via cleaved PARP, cleaved caspase‐3, and Bax. The selective inhibitory effects of hederagenin were confirmed in cisplatin‐resistant HNC xenograft models. These data suggest that hederagenin induces cell death in resistant HNC cells via the Nrf2‐ARE antioxidant pathway.
Rules for Flight Paths and Time of Flight for Flows in Porous Media with Heterogeneous Permeability and Porosity
Authors: Zuo Lihua , Weijermars Ruud
Published: December 2017

Porous media like hydrocarbon reservoirs may be composed of a wide variety of rocks with different porosity and permeability. Our study shows in algorithms and in synthetic numerical simulations that the flow pattern of any particular porous medium, assuming constant fluid properties and standardized boundary and initial conditions, is not affected by any spatial porosity changes but will vary only according to spatial permeability changes. In contrast, the time of flight along the streamline will be affected by both the permeability and porosity, albeit in opposite directions. A theoretical framework is presented with evidence from flow visualizations. A series of strategically chosen streamline simulations, including systematic spatial variations of porosity and permeability, visualizes the respective effects on the flight path and time of flight. Two practical rules are formulated. Rule  1 states that an increase in permeability decreases the time of flight, whereas an increase in porosity increases the time of flight. Rule  2 states that the permeability uniquely controls the flight path of fluid flow in porous media; local porosity variations do not affect the streamline path. The two rules are essential for understanding fluid transport mechanisms, and their rigorous validation therefore is merited.
Interaction Effects of Season of Birth and Cytokine Genes on Schizotypal Traits in the General Population
Authors: Alfimova Margarita V. , Korovaitseva Galina I. , Lezheiko Tatyana V. , Golimbet Vera E.
Published: December 2017

Literature suggests that the effect of winter birth on vulnerability to schizophrenia might be mediated by increased expression of proinflammatory cytokines due to prenatal infection and its inadequate regulation by anti-inflammatory factors. As the response of the immune system depends on genotype, this study assessed the interaction effects of cytokine genes and season of birth (SOB) on schizotypy measured with the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire (SPQ-74). We searched for associations ofIL1Brs16944,IL4rs2243250, andIL-1RNVNTR polymorphisms, SOB, and their interactions with the SPQ-74 total score in a sample of 278 healthy individuals. A significant effect of theIL4X SOB interaction was found,p=0.007andη2=0.028. We confirmed this effect using an extended sample of 373 individuals. Homozygotes CC born in winter showed the highest SPQ total score and differed significantly from winter-born T allele carriers,p=0.049. This difference was demonstrated for cognitive-perceptual and disorganized but not interpersonal dimensions. The findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the cytokine genes by SOB interaction can influence variability of schizotypal traits in the general population. TheIL4T allele appeared to have a protective effect against the development of positive and disorganized schizotypal traits in winter-born individuals.
Efficacy of a Computer-Assisted Cognitive Rehabilitation Intervention in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Messinis Lambros , Nasios Grigorios , Kosmidis Mary H. , Zampakis Petros , Malefaki Sonia , Ntoskou Katerina , Nousia Anastasia , Bakirtzis Christos , Grigoriadis Nikolaos , Gourzis Philippos , Papathanasopoulos Panagiotis
Published: December 2017

Cognitive impairment is frequently encountered in multiple sclerosis (MS) affecting between 40–65% of individuals, irrespective of disease duration and severity of physical disability. In the present multicenter randomized controlled trial, fifty-eight clinically stable RRMS patients with mild to moderate cognitive impairment and relatively low disability status were randomized to receive either computer-assisted (RehaCom) functional cognitive training with an emphasis on episodic memory, information processing speed/attention, and executive functions for 10 weeks (IG; n=32) or standard clinical care (CG; n=26). Outcome measures included a flexible comprehensive neuropsychological battery of tests sensitive to MS patient deficits and feedback regarding personal benefit gained from the intervention on four verbal questions. Only the IG group showed significant improvements in verbal and visuospatial episodic memory, processing speed/attention, and executive functioning from pre - to postassessment. Moreover, the improvement obtained on attention was retained over 6 months providing evidence on the long-term benefits of this intervention. Group by time interactions revealed significant improvements in composite cognitive domain scores in the IG relative to the demographically and clinically matched CG for verbal episodic memory, processing speed, verbal fluency, and attention. Treated patients rated the intervention positively and were more confident about their cognitive abilities following treatment.
Downlink Linear Precoders Based on Statistical CSI for Multicell MIMO-OFDM
Authors: Baktash Ebrahim , Lin Chi-Heng , Wang Xiaodong , Karimi Mahmood
Published: December 2017

With 5G communication systems on the horizon, efficient interference management in heterogeneous multicell networks is more vital than ever. This paper investigates the linear precoder design for downlink multicell multiple-input multiple-output orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (MIMO-OFDM) systems, where base stations (BSs) coordinate to reduce the interference across space and frequency. In order to minimize the overall feedback overhead in next-generation systems, we consider precoding schemes that require statistical channel state information (CSI) only. We apply the random matrix theory to approximate the ergodic weighted sum rate of the system with a closed form expression. After formulating the approximation for general channels, we reduce the results to a more compact form using the Kronecker channel model for which several multicarrier concepts such as frequency selectivity, channel tap correlations, and intercarrier interference (ICI) are rigorously represented. We find the local optimal solution for the maximization of the approximate rate using a gradient method that requires only the covariance structure of the MIMO-OFDM channels. Within this covariance structure are the channel tap correlations and ICI information, both of which are taken into consideration in the precoder design. Simulation results show that the rate approximation is very accurate even for very small MIMO-OFDM systems and the proposed method converges rapidly to a near-optimal solution that competes with networked MIMO and precoders based on instantaneous full CSI.
A New Assessment in the Simultaneous Optimization of Friction Dampers in Plane and Spatial Civil Structures
Authors: Ontiveros-Pérez Sergio Pastor , Miguel Letícia Fleck Fadel , Miguel Leandro Fleck Fadel
Published: December 2017

This paper presents a methodology to improve installation of friction dampers in civil structures subjected to artificial and real earthquakes using a metaheuristic optimization technique. The Firefly Algorithm is used in this work and it is linked with a computational routine based on Finite Differences Method to solve simultaneous optimization of friction dampers problem. The methodology is implemented for two kinds of structures: a 2D steel frame building and a 3D concrete frame building. The scope of this study is to reduce two different objective functions: (i) the maximum displacement at the top of a structure and (ii) maximum interstorey drift. The results showed that the methodology was able to reduce two objective functions and it can be recommended as an efficient tool to project optimal fiction dampers.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Platelet Count and Platelet Indices in Noninvasive Assessment of Fibrosis in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Patients
Authors: Milovanovic Alempijevic Tamara , Stojkovic Lalosevic Milica , Dumic Igor , Jocic Nevena , Pavlovic Markovic Aleksandra , Dragasevic Sanja , Jovicic Ivana , Lukic Snezana , Popovic Dragan , Milosavljevic Tomica
Published: December 2017

Objective. Keeping in mind the rising prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and the need to establish noninvasive tests for its detection, the aim of our study was to investigate whether platelet count (PC), mean platelet volume (MPV), and platelet distribution width (PDW) can predict the presence of liver fibrosis in this group of patients. Methods. In 98 patients with NAFLD and 60 healthy volunteers, complete blood counts with automated differential counts were performed and values of PC, PDW, MPV, and PCT were analyzed. Results. Patients with NAFLD had lower PC and higher MPV, PCT, and PDW compared to the controls (P < 0.05). When NAFLD group was stratified according to severity of liver fibrosis, there was a statistically significant difference in the average values of PDW and PC between the groups (P < 0.05). Conclusion. Patients with NAFLD have significantly higher values of PCT, PDW, and MPV when compared to the healthy controls. Further studies are needed to establish their potential use for prediction of the degree of liver steatosis and fibrosis in NAFLD patients.
Attenuation Correction of Weather Radar Reflectivity with Arbitrary Oriented Microwave Link
Authors: Zhang Peng , Liu Xichuan , Li Zhaoming , Zhou Zeming , Song Kun , Yang Pinglv
Published: December 2017

To compensate radar reflectivity for attenuation effect, a new method for attenuation correction of the radar reflectivity using arbitrary oriented microwave link (referred henceforth to as ACML) is developed and evaluated. Referring to the measurement of arbitrary oriented microwave link, the ACML method optimizes the ratio of specific attenuation to specific differential phase which is a key parameter in attenuation correction schemes. The proposed method was evaluated using real data of a dual-polarization X-band radar and measurements of two microwave links during two rainstorm events. The results showed that the variation range of the optimized ratio was overall consistent with the results of the previous studies. After attenuation correction with the optimal ratios, the radar reflectivity was significantly compensated, especially at long distances. The corrected reflectivity was more intense than the reflectivity corrected by the “self-consistent” (SC) method and closer to the reflectivity of a nearby S-band radar. The effectiveness of the method was also verified by comparing the rain rates estimated by the X-band radar with those derived by rain gauges. It is demonstrated that arbitrary oriented microwave link can be adopted to optimize the attenuation correction of radar reflectivity.
An Efficient Algorithm with Stabilized Finite Element Method for the Stokes Eigenvalue Problem
Authors: Weng Zhifeng , Cai Yaoxiong
Published: December 2017

This paper provides a two‐space stabilized mixed finite element scheme for the Stokes eigenvalue problem based on local Gauss integration. The two‐space strategy contains solving one Stokes eigenvalue problem using the P1 − P1 finite element pair and then solving an additional Stokes problem using the P2 − P2 finite element pair. The postprocessing technique which increases the order of mixed finite element space by using the same mesh can accelerate the convergence rate of the eigenpair approximations. Moreover, our method can save a large amount of computational time and the corresponding convergence analysis is given. Finally, numerical results are presented to confirm the theoretical analysis.
State-of-Charge Estimation and Active Cell Pack Balancing Design of Lithium Battery Power System for Smart Electric Vehicle
Authors: Gao Z. C. , Chin C. S. , Toh W. D. , Chiew J. , Jia J.
Published: December 2017

This paper presents an integrated state-of-charge (SOC) estimation model and active cell balancing of a 12-cell lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery power system. The strong tracking cubature extended Kalman filter (STCEKF) gave an accurate SOC prediction compared to other Kalman-based filter algorithms. The proposed groupwise balancing of the multiple SOC exhibited a higher balancing speed and lower balancing loss than other cell balancing designs. The experimental results demonstrated the robustness and performance of the battery when subjected to current load profile of an electric vehicle under varying ambient temperature.
Preparation of Fe3O4/Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites with Good Dispersibility for Delivery of Paclitaxel
Authors: Zhang Xiaojuan , Cai Wenbin , Hao Lingyun , Feng Suli , Lin Qing , Jiang Wei
Published: December 2017

The Fe3O4/reduced graphene oxide (Fe3O4/RGO) nanocomposites with good dispersibility were synthesized for targeted delivery of paclitaxel (PTX). Firstly, the superparamagnetic Fe3O4/functional GO nanocomposites were prepared via hydrothermal method in which GO sheets were modified by surfactant wrapping. The Fe3O4/RGO nanocomposites were successively prepared through the reduction of graphene oxide. The products were investigated by Fourier-transform infrared spectrum, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and vibration sample magnetometry. It was found that spherical Fe3O4 nanoparticles were uniformly anchored over the RGO matrix and the nanocomposites were superparamagnetic with saturation magnetization (Ms) of 9.39 emu/g. Then PTX was loaded onto Fe3O4/RGO nanocomposites, and the drug loading capacity was 67.9%. Cell viability experiments performed on MCF-7 demonstrated that the Fe3O4/RGO-loaded PTX (Fe3O4/RGO/PTX) showed cytotoxicity to MCF-7, whereas the Fe3O4/RGO displayed no obvious cytotoxicity. The above results indicated that Fe3O4/RGO/PTX nanocomposites had potential application in tumor-targeted chemotherapy.
Comparison of Selected Parameters of Redox Homeostasis in Patients with Ataxia‐Telangiectasia and Nijmegen Breakage Syndrome
Authors: Pietrucha Barbara , Heropolitanska-Pliszka Edyta , Maciejczyk Mateusz , Car Halina , Sawicka-Powierza Jolanta , Motkowski Radosław , Karpinska Joanna , Hryniewicka Marta , Zalewska Anna , Pac Malgorzata , Wolska-Kusnierz Beata , Bernatowska Ewa , Mikoluc Bozena
Published: December 2017

This study compared the antioxidant status and major lipophilic antioxidants in patients with ataxia‐telangiectasia (AT) and Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS). Total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and concentrations of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and vitamins A and E were estimated in the plasma of 22 patients with AT, 12 children with NBS, and the healthy controls. In AT patients, TAS (median 261.7 μmol/L) was statistically lower but TOS (496.8 μmol/L) was significantly elevated in comparison with the healthy group (312.7 μmol/L and 311.2 μmol/L, resp.). Tocopherol (0.8 μg/mL) and CoQ10 (0.1 μg/mL) were reduced in AT patients versus control (1.4 μg/mL and 0.3 μg/mL, resp.). NBS patients also displayed statistically lower TAS levels (290.3 μmol/L), while TOS (404.8 μmol/L) was comparable to the controls. We found that in NBS patients retinol concentration (0.1 μg/mL) was highly elevated and CoQ10 (0.1 μg/mL) was significantly lower in comparison with those in the healthy group. Our study confirms disturbances in redox homeostasis in AT and NBS patients and indicates a need for diagnosing oxidative stress in those cases as a potential disease biomarker. Decreased CoQ10 concentration found in NBS and AT indicates a need for possible supplementation.
Measurement of Gender Differences of Gastrocnemius Muscle and Tendon Using Sonomyography during Calf Raises: A Pilot Study
Authors: Zhou Guang-Quan , Zheng Yong-Ping , Zhou Ping
Published: December 2017

Skeletal muscles are essential to the gender-specific characteristics of human movements. Sonomyography, a new signal for quantifying muscle activation, is of great benefit to understand muscle function through monitoring the real-time muscle architectural changes. The purpose of this pilot study was to investigate gender differences in the architectural changes of gastronomies muscle and tendon by using sonomyography during performing two-legged calf raising exercises. A motion analysis system was developed to extract sonomyography from ultrasound images together with kinematic and kinetic measurements. Tiny fascicle length changes among seven male subjects were observed at the initial part of calf raising, whereas the fascicle of seven female subjects shortened immediately. This result suggested that men would generate higher mechanical power output of plantar flexors to regulate their heavier body mass. In addition, the larger regression coefficient between the fascicle length and muscle force for the male subjects implied that higher muscle stiffness for the men was required in demand of maintaining their heavier body economically. The findings from the current study suggested that the body mass might play a factor in the gender difference in structural changes of muscle and tendon during motion. The sonomyography may provide valuable information in the understanding of the gender difference in human movements.
Metabolomic Insights into the Nutritional Status of Adults and Adolescents with Phenylketonuria Consuming a Low-Phenylalanine Diet in Combination with Amino Acid and Glycomacropeptide Medical Foods
Authors: Stroup Bridget M. , Ney Denise M. , Murali Sangita G. , Rohr Frances , Gleason Sally T. , van Calcar Sandra C. , Levy Harvey L.
Published: December 2017

Background. Nutrient status in phenylketonuria (PKU) requires surveillance due to the restrictive low-Phe diet in combination with amino acid medical foods (AA-MF) or glycomacropeptide medical foods (GMP-MF). Micronutrient profiles of medical foods are diverse, and optimal micronutrient supplementation in PKU has not been established.Methods. In a crossover design, 30 participants with PKU were randomized to consume AA-MF and Glytactin™ GMP-MF in combination with a low-Phe diet for 3 weeks each. Fasting venipunctures, medical food logs, and 3-day food records were obtained. Metabolomic analyses were completed in plasma and urine by Metabolon, Inc.Results. The low-Phe diets in combination with AA-MF and GMP-MF were generally adequate based on Dietary Reference Intakes, clinical measures, and metabolomics. Without micronutrient supplementation of medical foods, >70% of participants would have inadequate intakes for 11 micronutrients. Despite micronutrient supplementation of medical foods, inadequate intakes of potassium in 93% of participants and choline in >40% and excessive intakes of sodium in >63% of participants and folic acid in >27% were observed. Sugar intake was excessive and provided 27% of energy.Conclusions. Nutrient status was similar with AA-MF and Glytactin GMP-MF. More research related to micronutrient supplementation of medical foods for the management of PKU is needed.
Unilateral Arm Crank Exercise Test for Assessing Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Individuals with Hemiparetic Stroke
Authors: Oyake Kazuaki , Yamaguchi Tomofumi , Oda Chihiro , Kudo Daisuke , Kondo Kunitsugu , Otaka Yohei , Momose Kimito
Published: December 2017

Cardiorespiratory fitness assessment with leg cycle exercise testing may be influenced by motor impairments in the paretic lower extremity. Hence, this study examined the usefulness of a unilateral arm crank exercise test to assess cardiorespiratory fitness in individuals with stroke, including sixteen individuals with hemiparetic stroke (mean ± SD age, 56.4±7.5 years) and 12 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Participants performed the unilateral arm crank and leg cycle exercise tests to measure oxygen consumption (V˙O2) and heart rate at peak exercise. The V˙O2 at peak exercise during the unilateral arm crank exercise test was significantly lower in the stroke group than in the control group (p<0.001). In the stroke group, the heart rate at peak exercise during the unilateral arm crank exercise test did not significantly correlate with the Brunnstrom recovery stages of the lower extremity (p=0.137), whereas there was a significant correlation during the leg cycle exercise test (rho = 0.775, p<0.001). The unilateral arm crank exercise test can detect the deterioration of cardiorespiratory fitness independently of lower extremity motor impairment severity in individuals with hemiparetic stroke. This study is registered with UMIN000014733.
Impact of Elevated Circulating Histones on Systemic Inflammation after Radiofrequency Ablation in Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Gu Tao , Wen Tao , Zhang Yunjie , Zhang Dan , Hua Haixia , Liu Lijie , Zhang Yanqiu , Fu Zhanzhao , Yuan Zhiyong
Published: December 2017

Background. This study investigated the changes of circulating histones following radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in lung cancer patients and their impact on systemic inflammation. Methods. Serial blood samples were obtained from a total of 65 primary and metastatic lung cancer patients undergoing RFA at 2 time points: pre-RFA and post-RFA within 48 h. Circulating histones, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and multiple inflammatory cytokines were measured. Moreover, the patient’s sera were incubated overnight with human monocytic U937 cells in the presence or absence of anti-histone antibody, and cytokine production was evaluated. Results. Compared to pre-RFA, there was a significant increase in circulating histones within 48 h after RFA, along with an elevation of MPO and several canonical inflammatory cytokines. Circulating histones were correlated with these inflammatory markers. Notably, compared to the sera obtained before RFA, the patients’ post-RFA sera significantly stimulated cytokine production in the supernatant of U937 cells, which could be prevented by anti-histone antibody, thereby confirming a cause-effect relationship between circulating histones and systemic inflammation. Conclusions. This study showed that circulating histones may serve as a marker indicating RFA-related systemic inflammation as well as represent a therapeutic target for resolution of inflammation.
A Review on Ethnopharmacological Applications, Pharmacological Activities, and Bioactive Compounds of Mangifera indica (Mango)
Authors: Ediriweera Meran Keshawa , Tennekoon Kamani Hemamala , Samarakoon Sameera Ranganath
Published: December 2017

Mangifera indica (family Anacardiaceae), commonly known as mango, is a pharmacologically, ethnomedically, and phytochemically diverse plant. Various parts of M. indica tree have been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of different ailments, and a number of bioactive phytochemical constituents of M. indica have been reported, namely, polyphenols, terpenes, sterols, carotenoids, vitamins, and amino acids, and so forth. Several studies have proven the pharmacological potential of different parts of mango trees such as leaves, bark, fruit peel and flesh, roots, and flowers as anticancer, anti‐inflammatory, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anthelmintic, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, antiplasmodial, and antihyperlipemic. In the present review, a comprehensive study on ethnopharmacological applications, pharmacological activities, and bioactive compounds of M. indica has been described.
Epstein-Barr Virus as a Promising Immunotherapeutic Target for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Treatment
Authors: Teow Sin-Yeang , Yap Hooi-Yeen , Peh Suat-Cheng
Published: December 2017

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a pathogen that infects more than 90% of global human population. EBV primarily targets B-lymphocytes and epithelial cells while some of them infect monocyte/macrophage, T-lymphocytes, and dendritic cells (DCs). EBV infection does not cause death by itself but the infection has been persistently associated with certain type of cancers such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), Burkitt’s lymphoma (BL), and Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL). Recent findings have shown promise on targeting EBV proteins for cancer therapy by immunotherapeutic approach. Some studies have also shown the success of adopting EBV-based therapeutic vaccines for the prevention of EBV-associated cancer particularly on NPC. In-depth investigations are in progress to refine the current therapeutic and vaccination strategies. In present review, we discuss the highly potential EBV targets for NPC immunotherapy and therapeutic vaccine development as well as addressing the underlying challenges in the process of bringing the therapy and vaccination from the bench to bedside.
Mean Field Approximation for the Dense Charged Drop
Authors: Bondarenko S. , Komoshvili K.
Published: December 2017

We consider in this note the mean field approximation for the description of the probe charged particle in a dense charged drop. We solve the corresponding Schrödinger equation for the drop with spherical symmetry in the first order of mean field approximation and discuss the obtained results.
Analysis of Shooting Consistency in Archers: A Dynamic Time Warping Algorithm-Based Approach
Authors: Quan Cheng-Hao , Mohy-Ud-Din Zia , Lee Sangmin
Published: December 2017

The shooting consistency of an archer is commonly perceived to be an important determinant of successful scores. Four (n=4) elementary level archers from a middle school in Korea participated in this study. In order to quantify shooting consistency, movement of the bow forearm was measured with an inertia sensor during archery shooting. The shooting consistency was calculated and defined by the dynamic time warping (DTW) algorithm as the distance between two time sequences of acceleration data. Small distance values indicate that the archer has maintained high-level shooting consistency while archery shooting repetitively. To verify the shooting consistency metric, the relationship between scores and shooting consistency is evaluated. The results show that the higher the scores achieved by the archer, the higher is the level of shooting consistency demonstrated.
Multiscale High-Level Feature Fusion for Histopathological Image Classification
Authors: Lai ZhiFei , Deng HuiFang
Published: December 2017

Histopathological image classification is one of the most important steps for disease diagnosis. We proposed a method for multiclass histopathological image classification based on deep convolutional neural network referred to as coding network. It can gain better representation for the histopathological image than only using coding network. The main process is that training a deep convolutional neural network is to extract high-level feature and fuse two convolutional layers’ high-level feature as multiscale high-level feature. In order to gain better performance and high efficiency, we would employ sparse autoencoder (SAE) and principal components analysis (PCA) to reduce the dimensionality of multiscale high-level feature. We evaluate the proposed method on a real histopathological image dataset. Our results suggest that the proposed method is effective and outperforms the coding network.
Microfluidic Optical Shutter Flexibly x-y Actuated via Electrowetting-on-Dielectrics with <20 ms Response Time
Authors: Fouckhardt Henning , Strassner Johannes , Heisel Carina , Palm Dominic , Doering Christoph
Published: December 2017

Tunable microoptics deals with devices of which the optical properties can be changed during operation without mechanically moving solid parts. Often a droplet is actuated instead, and thus tunable microoptics is closely related to microfluidics. One such device/module/cell type is an optical shutter, which is moved in or out of the path of the light. In our case the transmitting part comprises a moving transparent and electrically conductive water droplet, embedded in a nonconductive blackened oil, that is, an opaque emulsion with attenuation of 30 dB at 570 nm wavelength over the 250 μm long light path inside the fluid (15 dB averaged over the visible spectral range). The insertion loss of the cell is 1.5 dB in the “open shutter” state. The actuation is achieved via electrowetting-on-dielectrics (EWOD) with rectangular AC voltage pulses of 2·90 V peak-to-peak at 1 kHz. To flexibly allow for horizontal, vertical, and diagonal droplet movement in the upright x-y plane, the contact structures are prepared such that four possible stationary droplet positions exist. The cell is configured as two capacitors in series (along the z axis), such that EWOD forces act symmetrically in the front and back of the 60 nl droplet with a response time of <20 ms.
Comparison of 68Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 and 18F-Fluorodeoxyribose-Siglec-9: Inflammation Imaging and Radiation Dosimetry
Authors: Virtanen Helena , Silvola Johanna M. U. , Autio Anu , Li Xiang-Guo , Liljenbäck Heidi , Hellberg Sanna , Siitonen Riikka , Ståhle Mia , Käkelä Meeri , Airaksinen Anu J. , Helariutta Kerttuli , Tolvanen Tuula , Veres Tibor Z. , Saraste Antti , Knuuti Juhani , Jalkanen Sirpa , Roivainen Anne
Published: December 2017

Sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin 9 (Siglec-9) is a ligand of inflammation-inducible vascular adhesion protein-1 (VAP-1). We compared 68Ga-DOTA- and 18F-fluorodeoxyribose- (FDR-) labeled Siglec-9 motif peptides for PET imaging of inflammation. Methods. Firstly, we examined 68Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 and 18F-FDR-Siglec-9 in rats with skin/muscle inflammation. We then studied 18F-FDR-Siglec-9 for the detection of inflamed atherosclerotic plaques in mice and compared it with previous 68Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 results. Lastly, we estimated human radiation dosimetry from the rat data. Results. In rats, 68Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 (SUV, 0.88±0.087) and 18F-FDR-Siglec-9 (SUV, 0.77±0.22) showed comparable (P=0.29) imaging of inflammation. In atherosclerotic mice, 18F-FDR-Siglec-9 detected inflamed plaques with a target-to-background ratio (1.6±0.078) similar to previously tested 68Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 (P=0.35). Human effective dose estimates for 68Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 and 18F-FDR-Siglec-9 were 0.024 and 0.022 mSv/MBq, respectively. Conclusion. Both tracers are suitable for PET imaging of inflammation. The easier production and lower cost of 68Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 present advantages over 18F-FDR-Siglec-9, indicating it as a primary choice for clinical studies.
Superconducting and Antiferromagnetic Phases of Space-Time
Authors: Vaid Deepak
Published: December 2017

A correspondence between the SO5 theory of high-TC superconductivity and antiferromagnetism, put forward by Zhang and collaborators, and a theory of gravity arising from symmetry breaking of a SO5 gauge field is presented. A physical correspondence between the order parameters of the unified SC/AF theory and the generators of the gravitational gauge connection is conjectured. A preliminary identification of regions of geometry, in solutions of Einstein’s equations describing charged-rotating black holes embedded in de Sitter space-time, with SC and AF phases is carried out.
Diagnostic Value of the lncRNA NEAT1 in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Patients with Sepsis
Authors: Huang Shuying , Qian Kejian , Zhu Yuanfang , Huang Zikun , Luo Qing , Qing Cheng
Published: December 2017

Background. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic value of nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) for the early diagnosis of sepsis. Methods. A total of 59 patients with sepsis, 52 noninfectious SIRS patients, and 56 healthy controls were recruited fort this study. The levels of NEAT1 expression in PBMCs were measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Results. Compared with healthy controls, NEAT1 expression of PBMCs in sepsis and SIRS groups were significantly increased (3.76 ± 0.71- and 1.64 ± 0.43-fold, resp.) (P<0.01), but NEAT1 levels are significantly lower in the SIRS group than in the sepsis group, and there was no statistical significant relevance between survivors and nonsurvivors in patients with sepsis. NEAT1 with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.851 (95% CI: 0.812–0.935) indicated sensitivity (67.85%) and specificity (87.27%) for the diagnosis for sepsis, the positive predictive value (PPV) was 83.3%, and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 71.6%. The AUC for NEAT1 in the diagnosis of SIRS versus healthy controls was 0.755 (95% CI: 0.664–0.847), with 69.23% sensitivity and 70.91% specificity, the PPV was 72.3%, and the NPV was 72.49%. Conclusion. Measurement of NEAT1 expression in PBMCs could be considered as a good additive marker for the diagnosis of sepsis.
Pharmacological Effect of Caulophyllum robustum on Collagen‐Induced Arthritis and Regulation of Nitric Oxide, NF‐κB, and Proinflammatory Cytokines In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Wang Qiu-hong , Lv Shao-wa , Guo Yu-yan , Duan Ji-xin , Dong Shu-yu , Wang Qiu-shi , Yu Feng-ming , Su Hong , Kuang Hai-xue
Published: December 2017

Caulophyllum robustum Maxim (C. robustum) has commonly been used as traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of rheumatic pain and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in China. This paper first investigated the anti‐inflammation effect of C. robustum extraction (CRME) on RAW264.7 cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and gene expression levels of inflammatory factors. Moreover, we first evaluated the anti‐RA effects of CRME using collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) in DBA/1J mice, and the incidence, clinical score, and joint histopathology were evaluated. The levels of IL‐1, IL‐6, TNF‐α, and PGE2 inflammatory factors in sera of mice were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The expression of NF‐κB p65 in the joint was tested by immune histochemical technique. The results showed that, compared with the model group, CRME significantly improved symptoms of the arthritis index, limb swelling, and histological findings by decreasing synovial membrane damage, the extent of inflammatory cell infiltration, and the expansion of capillaries in CIA mice. The results also showed that CRME can reduce the levels of IL‐1, IL‐6, TNF‐α, and PGE2 and inhibit the expression of NF‐κB p65. All these results indicated the anti‐inflammatory efficacy of CRME as a novel botanical extraction for the treatment of RA.
Proposal of Simple and Accurate Two‐Parametric Approximation for the Q‐Function
Authors: Nikolić Jelena , Perić Zoran , Marković Aleksandar
Published: December 2017

The approximations for the Q‐function reported in the literature so far have mainly been developed to overcome not only the difficulties, but also the limitations, caused in different research areas, by the nonexistence of the closed form expression for the Q‐function. Unlike the previous papers, we propose the novel approximation for the Q‐function not for solving some particular problem. Instead, we analyze this problem in one general manner and we provide one general solution, which has wide applicability. Specifically, in this paper, we set two goals, which are somewhat contrary to each other. The one is the simplicity of the analytical form of Q‐function approximation and the other is the relatively high accuracy of the approximation for a wide range of arguments. Since we propose a two‐parametric approximation for the Q‐function, by examining the effect of the parameters choice on the accuracy of the approximation, we manage to determine the most suitable parameters of approximation and to achieve these goals simultaneously. The simplicity of the analytical form of our approximation along with its relatively high accuracy, which is comparable to or even better than that of the previously proposed approximations of similar analytical form complexity, indicates its wide applicability.