bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospects for Future Collider Physics
Authors: Ellis John
Published: October 2016

One item on the agenda of future colliders is certain to be the Higgs boson. What is it trying to tell us? The primary objective of any future collider must surely be to identify physics beyond the Standard Model, and supersymmetry is one of the most studied options. Is supersymmetry waiting for us and, if so, can LHC Run 2 find it? The big surprise from the initial 13 TeV LHC data has been the appearance of a possible signal for a new boson [Formula: see text] with a mass [Formula: see text] 750 GeV. What are the prospects for future colliders if the X(750) exists? One of the most intriguing possibilities in electroweak physics would be the discovery of nonperturbative phenomena. What are the prospects for observing sphalerons at the LHC or a future collider?
Testable SUSY spectra from GUTs at a 100 TeV pp collider
Authors: Antusch Stefan , Sluka Constantin
Published: October 2016

Grand Unified Theories (GUTs) are attractive candidates for more fundamental elementary particle theories. They cannot only unify the Standard Model (SM) interactions but also different types of SM fermions, in particular quarks and leptons, in joint representations of the GUT gauge group. We discuss how comparing predictive supersymmetric GUT models with the experimental results for quark and charged lepton masses leads to constraints on the SUSY spectrum. We show an example from a recent analysis where the resulting superpartner masses where found just beyond the reach of LHC Run 1, but fully within the reach of a 100 TeV [Formula: see text] collider.
Study of J/ψ → Ds,dV decays with perturbative QCD approach
Authors: Yang Yueling , Sun Junfeng , Gao Jie , Chang Qin , Huang Jinshu , Lu Gongru
Published: October 2016

Inspired by the recent measurements on two-body nonleptonic [Formula: see text] weak decay at BESIII, the charm-changing [Formula: see text] weak decays are studied with perturbative QCD approach, where [Formula: see text] denotes [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] vector mesons. It is found that branching ratio for [Formula: see text] decay can reach up to [Formula: see text], which is within the potential measurement capability of the future high-luminosity experiments.
Gamma-rigid regime of the Bohr–Mottelson Hamiltonian in energy-dependent approach
Authors: Alimohammadi M. , Hassanabadi H.
Published: October 2016

We determine the energy spectrum and wave function for the Bohr–Mottelson Hamiltonian on [Formula: see text]-rigid regime separately with the harmonic and Coulomb energy-dependent potentials. We study the effect of potential parameters on the energy levels and probability density distribution. The transition rates are determined in each case.
Dual-Support Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics for Elastic Mechanics
Authors: Dai Zili , Ren Huilong , Zhuang Xiaoying , Rabczuk Timon
Published: October 2016

In the standard smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method, the interaction between two particles might be not pairwise when the support domain varies, which can result in a reduction of accuracy. To deal with this problem, a modified SPH approach is presented in this paper. First of all, a Lagrangian kernel is introduced to eliminate spurious distortions of the domain of material stability, and the gradient is corrected by a linear transformation so that linear completeness is satisfied. Then, concepts of support and dual-support are defined to deal with the unbalanced interactions between the particles with different support domains. Several benchmark problems in one, two and three dimensions are tested to verify the accuracy of the modified SPH model and highlight its advantages over the standard SPH method through comparisons.
Structural elucidation and study of intermolecular interactions inmeso-tetratolylporphyrins
Authors: Soman Rahul , Sujatha Subramaniam , Arunkumar Chellaiah
Published: October 2016

Synthesis and crystal structure analysis of meso-tetratolylporphyrins, 1–5 combined with computational Hirshfeld surface analysis were investigated. The crystal packing of porphyrins 1, 3 and 4 are arranged in an “orthogonal fashion” whereas 2 and 5 are in a “slip-stack or off-set fashion” through various intermolecular interactions. Compound 2 exhibits saddle geometry whereas 5 showed a domed geometry as evident from the single crystal X-ray diffraction studies. The enhancement of non-planarity in 2 is probably due to the presence of numerous intermolecular interactions caused by the presence of trifluoroacetate anions on both faces of the porphyrin in addition to the bulky bromine groups at the [Formula: see text]-pyrrole positions. In 5, the non-planarity is merely due to the metal coordination at the porphyrin core as pentacoordinated Mn[Formula: see text] center with a chloro ligand in the axial position. Hirshfeld surface analysis was performed in order to analyze the various intermolecular interactions present in these porphyrins and the result was discussed.
Megafaunal Impacts on Structure and Function of Ocean Ecosystems
Authors: Estes James A. , Heithaus Michael , McCauley Douglas J. , Rasher Douglas B. , Worm Boris
Published: October 2016

Here, we identify the extant species of marine megafauna (>45 kg maximum reported mass), provide a conceptual template for the ways in which these species influence the structure and function of ocean ecosystems, and review the published evidence for such influences. Ecological influences of more than 90% of the 338 known species of extant ocean megafauna are unstudied and thus unknown. The most widely known effect of those few species that have been studied is direct prey limitation, which occurs through consumption and risk avoidance behavior. Consumer-prey interactions result in indirect effects that extend through marine ecosystems to other species and ecological processes. Marine megafauna transport energy, nutrients, and other materials vertically and horizontally through the oceans, often over long distances. The functional relationships between these various ecological impacts and megafauna population densities, in the few well-studied cases, are characterized by phase shifts and hysteresis.
Vision and Aging
Authors: Owsley Cynthia
Published: October 2016

Research on aging and vision has increased dramatically over the past few decades. Changes in our visual capacities in later adulthood have the potential to impact our ability to perform common everyday visual tasks such as recognizing objects, reading, engaging in mobility activities, and driving, thus influencing the quality of our life and well-being. Here, we discuss several common visual problems in older adults that cause performance problems in the visual tasks of everyday living and when exacerbated are related to the development of common eye conditions and diseases of aging.
Experience-Dependent Structural Plasticity in the Visual System
Authors: Berry Kalen P. , Nedivi Elly
Published: October 2016

During development, the environment exerts a profound influence on the wiring of brain circuits. Due to the limited resolution of studies in fixed tissue, this experience-dependent structural plasticity was once thought to be restricted to a specific developmental time window. The recent introduction of two-photon microscopy for in vivo imaging has opened the door to repeated monitoring of individual neurons and the study of structural plasticity mechanisms at a very fine scale. In this review, we focus on recent work showing that synaptic structural rearrangements are a key mechanism mediating neural circuit adaptation and behavioral plasticity in the adult brain. We examine this work in the context of classic studies in the visual systems of model organisms, which have laid much of the groundwork for our understanding of activity-dependent synaptic remodeling and its role in brain plasticity.
A small molecule screening to detect potential therapeutic targets in human podocytes
Authors: Widmeier Eugen , Tan Weizhen , Airik Merlin , Hildebrandt Friedhelm
Published: October 2016

Widmeier E, Tan W, Airik M, Hildebrandt F. A small molecule screening to detect potential therapeutic targets in human podocytes. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 312: F157–F171, 2017. First published October 19, 2016; doi:10.1152/ajprenal.00386.2016. Steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) inevitably progresses to end-stage kidney disease, requiring dialysis or transplantation for survival. However, treatment modalities and drug discovery remain limited. Mutations in over 30 genes have been discovered as monogenic causes of SRNS. Most of these genes are predominantly expressed in the glomerular epithelial cell, the podocyte, placing it at the center of the pathogenesis of SRNS. Podocyte migration rate (PMR) represents a relevant intermediate phenotype of disease in monogenic causes of SRNS. We therefore adapted PMR in a high-throughput manner to screen small molecules as potential therapeutic targets for SRNS. We performed a high-throughput drug screening of a National Institutes of Health Clinical Collection (NCC) library ( n = 725 compounds) measuring PMR by videomicroscopy. We used the Woundmaker to perform individual 96-well scratch wounds and screened compounds using a quantitative kinetic live cell imaging migration assay using IncuCyte ZOOM technology. Using a normal distribution for the average PMR in wild-type podocytes with a vehicle control (DMSO), we applied a 90% confidence interval to define “distinct” compounds (5% faster/slower PMR) and found that 12 of 725 compounds (at 10 μM) reduced PMR. Clusters of drugs that alter PMR included actin/tubulin modulators such as the azole class of antifungals and antineoplastic vinca-alkaloids. We hereby identify compounds that alter PMR. The PMR assay provides a new avenue to test therapeutics for nephrotic syndrome. Positive results may reveal novel pathways in the study of glomerular diseases such as SRNS.
The reservoir-wave approach to characterize pulmonary vascular-right ventricular interactions in humans
Authors: Ghimire Anukul , Andersen Mads J. , Burrowes Lindsay M. , Bouwmeester J. Christopher , Grant Andrew D. , Belenkie Israel , Fine Nowell M. , Borlaug Barry A. , Tyberg John V.
Published: October 2016

Using the reservoir-wave approach (RWA) we previously characterized pulmonary vasculature mechanics in a normal canine model. We found reflected backward-traveling waves that decrease pressure and increase flow in the proximal pulmonary artery (PA). These waves decrease right ventricular (RV) afterload and facilitate RV ejection. With pathological alterations to the pulmonary vasculature, these waves may change and impact RV performance. Our objective in this study was to characterize PA wave reflection and the alterations in RV performance in cardiac patients, using the RWA. PA pressure, Doppler-flow velocity, and pulmonary arterial wedge pressure were measured in 11 patients with exertional dyspnea. The RWA was employed to analyze PA pressure and flow; wave intensity analysis characterized PA waves. Wave-related pressure was partitioned into two components: pressures due to forward-traveling and to backward-traveling waves. RV performance was assessed by examining the work done in raising reservoir pressure and that associated with the wave components of systolic PA pressure. Wave-related work, the mostly nonrecoverable energy expended by the RV to eject blood, tended to vary directly with mean PA pressure. Where PA pressures were lower, there were pressure-decreasing/flow-increasing backward waves that aided RV ejection. Where PA pressures were higher, there were pressure-increasing/flow-decreasing backward waves that impeded RV ejection. Pressure-increasing/flow-decreasing backward waves were responsible for systolic notches in the Doppler flow velocity profiles in patients with the highest PA pressure. Pulmonary hypertension is characterized by reflected waves that impede RV ejection and an increase in wave-related work. The RWA may facilitate the development of therapeutic strategies.
Descending propriospinal neurons mediate restoration of locomotor function following spinal cord injury
Authors: Benthall Katelyn N. , Hough Ryan A. , McClellan Andrew D.
Published: October 2016

Following spinal cord injury (SCI) in the lamprey, there is virtually complete recovery of locomotion within a few weeks, but interestingly, axonal regeneration of reticulospinal (RS) neurons is mostly limited to short distances caudal to the injury site. To explain this situation, we hypothesize that descending propriospinal (PS) neurons relay descending drive from RS neurons to indirectly activate spinal central pattern generators (CPGs). In the present study, the contributions of PS neurons to locomotor recovery were tested in the lamprey following SCI. First, long RS neuron projections were interrupted by staggered spinal hemitransections on the right side at 10% body length (BL; normalized from the tip of the oral hood) and on the left side at 30% BL. For acute recovery conditions (≤1 wk) and before axonal regeneration, swimming muscle burst activity was relatively normal, but with some deficits in coordination. Second, lampreys received two spaced complete spinal transections, one at 10% BL and one at 30% BL, to interrupt long-axon RS neuron projections. At short recovery times (3–5 wk), RS and PS neurons will have regenerated their axons for short distances and potentially established a polysynaptic descending command pathway. At these short recovery times, swimming muscle burst activity had only minor coordination deficits. A computer model that incorporated either of the two spinal lesions could mimic many aspects of the experimental data. In conclusion, descending PS neurons are a viable mechanism for indirect activation of spinal locomotor CPGs, although there can be coordination deficits of locomotor activity.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY In the lamprey following spinal lesion-mediated interruption of long axonal projections of reticulospinal (RS) neurons, sensory stimulation still elicited relatively normal locomotor muscle burst activity, but with some coordination deficits. Computer models incorporating the spinal lesions could mimic many aspects of the experimental results. Thus, after disruption of long-axon projections from RS neurons in the lamprey, descending propriospinal (PS) neurons appear to be a viable compensatory mechanism for indirect activation of spinal locomotor networks.
Gene Expression Profile of Colon Mucosa after Cytotoxic Insult in wt and Apc-Mutated Pirc Rats: Possible Relation to Resistance to Apoptosis during Carcinogenesis
Authors: Femia Angelo Pietro , Luceri Cristina , Lodovici Maura , Crucitta Stefania , Caderni Giovanna
Published: October 2016

Apc-mutated Pirc rats, spontaneously developing intestinal tumours, are resistant to 1,2-dimethylhydrazine- (DMH-) induced colon apoptosis. To understand this phenomenon, we analyzed the expression of genotoxic stress-related genes Mgmt, Gsta1, and Gstp1 in the colon of wt and Pirc rats in basal conditions and 24 h after DMH; plasmatic oxidant/antioxidant status was also evaluated. After DMH, Mgmt expression was increased in both genotypes but significantly only in wt rats; Gsta1 expression was significantly increased in both genotypes. Gstp1 expression did not vary after DMH but was lower in Pirc rats. Moreover, for each genotype, we studied by microarray technique whole gene expression profile after DMH. By unsupervised cluster analysis, 28 genes were differentially modulated between the two genotypes. Among them were interferon-induced genes Irf7, Oas1a, Oasl2, and Isg15 and the transcription factor Taf6l, overexpressed in DMH-treated wt rats and unchanged in Pirc rats. RT-PCR confirmed their overexpression in DMH-treated wt rats and showed a slighter variation in DMH-treated Pirc rats. Taken together, despite a blunted induction of Irf7, Oas1a, and Mgmt, defective apoptosis in Pirc rats 24 h after DMH is not mirrored by major differences in gene expression compared with wt rats.
Diagnosis and Management of Cirrhosis-Related Osteoporosis
Authors: Santos Lívia Alves Amaral , Romeiro Fernando Gomes
Published: October 2016

Management of cirrhosis complications has greatly improved, increasing survival and quality of life of the patients. Despite that, some of these complications are still overlooked and scarcely treated, particularly those that are not related to the liver. This is the case of osteoporosis, the only cirrhosis complication that is not solved after liver transplantation, because bone loss often increases after immunosuppressant therapy. In this review, the definitions of bone conditions in cirrhotic patients are analyzed, focusing on the more common ones and on those that have the largest impact on this population. Risk factors, physiopathology, diagnosis, screening strategies, and treatment of osteoporosis in cirrhotic patients are discussed, presenting the more striking data on this issue. Therapies used for particular conditions, such as primary biliary cirrhosis and liver transplantation, are also presented.
Microbiological Safety of Kitchen Sponges Used in Food Establishments
Authors: Wolde Tesfaye , Bacha Ketema
Published: October 2016

Kitchen sponges are among the possible sources of contaminants in food establishments. The main purpose of the current study was, therefore, to assess the microbiological safety of sponges as it has been used in selected food establishments of Jimma town. Accordingly, the microbiological safety of a total of 201 kitchen sponges randomly collected from food establishments was evaluated against the total counts of aerobic mesophilic bacteria (AMB), Enterobacteriaceae, coliforms, and yeast and molds. The mean counts of aerobic mesophilic bacteria ranged from 7.43 to 12.44 log CFU/mm3. The isolated genera were dominated byPseudomonas(16.9%),Bacillus(11.1%),Micrococcus(10.6%),Streptococcus(7.8%), andLactobacillus(6%) excluding the unidentified Gram positive rods (4.9%) and Gram negative rods (9.9%). The high microbial counts (aerobic mesophilic bacteria, coliforms, Enterobacteriaceae, and yeast and molds) reveal the existence of poor kitchen sponge sanitization practice. Awareness creation training on basic hygienic practices to food handlers and periodic change of kitchen sponges are recommended.
Computational Analysis of Damaging Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms and Their Structural and Functional Impact on the Insulin Receptor
Authors: Mahmud Zabed , Malik Syeda Umme Fahmida , Ahmed Jahed , Azad Abul Kalam
Published: October 2016

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with complex disorders can create, destroy, or modify protein coding sites. Single amino acid substitutions in the insulin receptor (INSR) are the most common forms of genetic variations that account for various diseases like Donohue syndrome or Leprechaunism, Rabson-Mendenhall syndrome, and type A insulin resistance. We analyzed the deleterious nonsynonymous SNPs (nsSNPs) inINSRgene based on different computational methods. Analysis of INSR was initiated with PROVEAN followed by PolyPhen and I-Mutant servers to investigate the effects of 57 nsSNPs retrieved from database of SNP (dbSNP). A total of 18 mutations that were found to exert damaging effects on the INSR protein structure and function were chosen for further analysis. Among these mutations, our computational analysis suggested that 13 nsSNPs decreased protein stability and might have resulted in loss of function. Therefore, the probability of their involvement in disease predisposition increases. In the lack of adequate prior reports on the possible deleterious effects of nsSNPs, we have systematically analyzed and characterized the functional variants in coding region that can alter the expression and function ofINSRgene.In silicocharacterization of nsSNPs affectingINSRgene function can aid in better understanding of genetic differences in disease susceptibility.
Pomegranate‐Derived Polyphenols Reduce Reactive Oxygen Species Production via SIRT3‐Mediated SOD2 Activation
Authors: Zhao Chong , Sakaguchi Takenori , Fujita Kosuke , Ito Hideyuki , Nishida Norihisa , Nagatomo Akifumi , Tanaka-Azuma Yukimasa , Katakura Yoshinori
Published: October 2016

Pomegranate‐derived polyphenols are expected to prevent life‐style related diseases. In this study, we evaluated the ability of 8 pomegranate‐derived polyphenols, along with other polyphenols, to augment SIRT3, a mammalian SIR2 homolog localized in mitochondria. We established a system for screening foods/food ingredients that augment the SIRT3 promoter in Caco‐2 cells and identified 3 SIRT3‐augmenting pomegranate‐derived polyphenols (eucalbanin B, pomegraniin A, and eucarpanin T1). Among them, pomegraniin A activated superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) through SIRT3‐mediated deacetylation, thereby reducing intracellular reactive oxygen species. The other SIRT3‐augmenting polyphenols tested also activated SOD2, suggesting antioxidant activity. Our findings clarify the underlying mechanisms involved in the antioxidant activity of pomegraniin A.
Research and Application of Influences of Lateral Pressure Coefficients on the Extension Angle of Coal Cracks
Authors: Liu Cheng , Li Shu-gang , Qin Song , Yang Shou-guo
Published: October 2016

Fluid-solid coupling seepage fields are ubiquitous in engineering practices. However, few investigations have been carried out on the rules of crack extension of solids under the effect of fluids. By using the RFPA2D (realistic failure process analysis in 2 dimensions), this research studied the influences of different lateral pressure coefficients on the extension direction and length of coal cracks. Also the result can be proved by fracture mechanics, stress intensity factor theory, and sliding crack theory. On this basis, aiming at a coal mine with the mining depth being over 700 m, the reliability of the above conclusion was further proved by testing the crustal stress at the positions with the buried depth varying from 750 m to 1,300 m. At the same time, in condition of meeting the water pressure required by the crack extension, permeability-increasing radius is selected preferably through AE energy index by simulation of hydraulic fracturing for coal seams under different lateral pressure coefficients, and the gas drainage achieves good effect in engineering practice.
Intelligent Packaging Systems: Sensors and Nanosensors to Monitor Food Quality and Safety
Authors: Fuertes Guillermo , Soto Ismael , Carrasco Raúl , Vargas Manuel , Sabattin Jorge , Lagos Carolina
Published: October 2016

The application of nanotechnology in different areas of food packaging is an emerging field that will grow rapidly in the coming years. Advances in food safety have yielded promising results leading to the development of intelligent packaging (IP). By these containers, it is possible to monitor and provide information of the condition of food, packaging, or the environment. This article describes the role of the different concepts of intelligent packaging. It is possible that this new technology could reach enhancing food safety, improving pathogen detection time, and controlling the quality of food and packaging throughout the supply chain.
Prevalence and Prognosis of Anemia in Dogs with Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease
Authors: Yu Ivarosa Bing-Ye , Huang Hui-Pi
Published: October 2016

In humans, heart failure (HF) and renal insufficiency (RI) have negative reciprocal effects, and anemia can exacerbate their progression. In this retrospective study, the prevalence and prognostic significance of anemia in 114 dogs with degenerative mitral valve disease (DMVD) was investigated. Pretreatment clinical parameters, prevalence of anemia and azotemia, and survival time were analyzed in relation to HF severity. The prevalence of anemia was highest in dogs with the modified New York Heart Association (NYHA) class IV HF (33.3%), followed by classes III (15.2%) and II (0%;p< 0.001). The presence of anemia was associated with HF severity and blood creatinine > 1.6 mg/dL (bothp< 0.001). Anemic dogs had a shorter median survival [13 months; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.7–19.1] than nonanemic dogs (28 months; 95% CI: 15.3–40.7;p< .001). NYHA class IV (hazard ratio (HR): 3.1, 95% CI: 2.2–4.3;p< 0.001), left atrium/aorta ratio > 1.7 (HR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.7–4.2;p= 0.001), and presence of anemia (HR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.1–1.9;p= 0.004) emerged as predictors of mortality. A cardiorenal-anemia syndrome-like triangle was observed and anemia was a prognostic factor for survival in dogs with DMVD.
Management of Psoriasis Herpeticum in Pregnancy: A Clinical Conundrum
Authors: Almario Leanne , Antonyan Albert S. , Porto Dennis A. , Gomez-Roberts Hunter , Alhousseini Ali , Gonik Bernard
Published: October 2016

Introduction. Kaposi varicelliform eruption (KVE) is a widespread cutaneous viral infection, most commonly herpes simplex virus, which affects patients with underlying dermatosis. When KVE occurs in a patient with a history of psoriasis, it is referred to as psoriasis herpeticum, a rare subtype of KVE with only a handful of cases reported in the literature. To the authors’ knowledge, we report for the first time a case of psoriasis herpeticum in pregnancy. Case Presentation. A 23-year-old woman in her third pregnancy presented at 26-week gestation with a 10-year history of psoriasis. Cutaneous examination revealed diffuse psoriatic plaques with scattered ~1 cm erosions. Punch biopsy of the skin revealed herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection within a psoriatic plaque, necessitating dermatological treatment. The patient experienced premature rupture of membranes at 37-week gestation. Pelvic exam showed no evidence of herpetic lesions. After labor augmentation, the patient delivered a healthy female infant with no evidence of HSV infection. Discussion. Psoriasis herpeticum is a rare and potentially devastating complication of an underlying dermatosis. With a paucity of data available to guide pregnancy-specific issues, the general management of this condition is controversial and requires a multidisciplinary care approach. Concerns for systemic infection in the mother and vertical transmission to the neonate are of critical importance.
Perceptions and Practices regarding Breastfeeding among Postnatal Women at a District Tertiary Referral Government Hospital in Southern India
Authors: Kamath Sowmini P. , Garg Dikshy , Khan Mohd. Khursheed , Jain Animesh , Baliga B. Shantharam
Published: October 2016

Background.Breastfeeding is the optimal method for achieving a normal growth and development of the baby. This study aimed to study mothers’ perceptions and practices regarding breastfeeding in Mangalore, India.Methodology.A cross-sectional study of 188 mothers was conducted using a structured proforma.Results.Importance of breast feeding was known to most mothers. While initiation of breast feeding within one hour of birth was done by majority of mothers, few had discarded colostrum and adopted prelacteal feeding. Mothers opined that breast feeding is healthy for their babies (96.3%) and easier than infant feeding (79.8%), does not affect marital relationship (51%), and decreases family expenditure (61.1%). However, there were poor perceptions regarding the advantages of breast milk with respect to nutritive value, immune effect, and disease protection. Few respondents reported discontinuation of breastfeeding in previous child if the baby had fever/cold (6%) or diarrhea (18%) and vomiting (26%). There was a statistically significant association between mother’s educational level and perceived importance of breastfeeding and also between the mode of delivery and initiation of breast feeding (p<0.05).Conclusion.Importance of breast feeding was known to most mothers. Few perceptions related to breast milk and feeding along with myths and disbeliefs should be rectified by health education.
Efficacy of Scutellaria baicalensis for the Treatment of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Associated with Encephalitis in Patients Infected with EV71: A Multicenter, Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Lin Hailong , Zhou Jian , Lin Kaichun , Wang Hongjiao , Liang Zunhong , Ren Xingshuai , Huang Leting , Xia Chan
Published: October 2016

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of using the traditional Chinese herbal medicine Scutellaria baicalensis for the treatment of severe HFMD in 725 patients aged >1 year in a multicenter, retrospective analysis. The patients were divided into the S. baicalensis and ribavirin groups, and the temperatures, presence or absence of skin rashes and oral lesions, nervous system (NS) involvement, and viral loads of the patients, as well as the safety of the treatments, were evaluated. The median duration of fever, median time to NS involvement, and the number of patients with oral ulcers and/or vesicles, as well as skin rashes, were decreased in the S. baicalensis group compared with the ribavirin group. In addition, the EV71 viral loads were decreased in the S. baicalensis group, suggesting that S. baicalensis exerted more potent antiviral effects compared with ribavirin. The present study demonstrated that S. baicalensis was suitable for the treatment of severe HFMD in patients aged >1 year, since it was shown to rapidly relieve fever, attenuate oral lesions and rashes, and improve NS involvement. Furthermore, it was demonstrated to be relatively safe for topical application.
Gastrointestinal Disturbances Associated with the Consumption of Sugar Alcohols with Special Consideration of Xylitol: Scientific Review and Instructions for Dentists and Other Health-Care Professionals
Authors: Mäkinen Kauko K.
Published: October 2016

Sugar alcohols (polyols) are used in food manufacturing and in medical tests and examinations.d-Glucitol (sorbitol) andd-mannitol were previously the most common alditols used for these purposes. After the 1960s, xylitol became a common ingredient in noncariogenic confectioneries, oral hygiene products, and diabetic food. Erythritol, a polyol of the tetritol type, can be regarded as the sweetener of the “next generation.” The disaccharide polyols maltitol, lactitol, and isomalt have also been used in food manufacturing and in medical tests. Consumption of pentitol- and hexitol-type polyols and disaccharide polyols may cause gastrointestinal disturbances at least in unaccustomed subjects. The occurrence of disturbances depends on consumer properties and on the molecular size and configuration of the polyol molecule. Adaptation may take place as a result of enzyme induction in the intestinal flora. Some of the literature on xylitol has been difficult to access by health-care professionals and will be reviewed here. Research and clinical field experience have found no pathology in polyol-associated osmotic diarrhea—the intestinal mucosa having normal basic structure, except in extreme instances. Xylitol is better tolerated than hexitols or the disaccharide polyols. Erythritol, owing to its smaller molecular weight and configuration that differ from other alditols, normally avoids the gastrointestinal reactions encountered with other polyols. This review will also touch upon the FODMAPs diet concept.
Feasibility and Efficiency of Human Bone Marrow Stromal Cell Culture with Allogeneic Platelet Lysate‐Supplementation for Cell Therapy against Stroke
Authors: Tan Chengbo , Shichinohe Hideo , Wang Zifeng , Hamauchi Shuji , Abumiya Takeo , Nakayama Naoki , Kazumata Ken , Ito Tsuneo , Kudo Kohsuke , Takamoto Shigeru , Houkin Kiyohiro
Published: October 2016

Currently, there is increasing interest in human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSCs) as regeneration therapy against cerebral stroke. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility and validity of hBMSC cultures with allogeneic platelet lysates (PLs). Platelet concentrates (PC) were harvested from healthy volunteers and made into single donor‐derived PL (sPL). The PL mixtures (mPL) were made from three different sPL. Some growth factors and platelet cell surface antigens were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The hBMSCs cultured with 10% PL were analyzed for their proliferative potential, surface markers, and karyotypes. The cells were incubated with superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) agents and injected into a pig brain. MRI and histological analysis were performed. Consequently, nine lots of sPL and three mPL were prepared. ELISA analysis showed that PL contained adequate growth factors and a particle of platelet surface antigens. Cell proliferation capacity of PLs was equivalent to or higher than that of fetal calf serum (FCS). No contradiction in cell surface markers and no chromosomal aberrations were found. The MRI detected the distribution of SPIO‐labeled hBMSCs in the pig brain. In summary, the hBMSCs cultured with allogeneic PL are suitable for cell therapy against stroke.
Influences by Air Voids on the Low-Temperature Cracking Property of Dense-Graded Asphalt Concrete Based on Micromechanical Modeling
Authors: Ma Tao , Zhang Yao , Wang Hao , Huang Xiaoming , Zhao Yongli
Published: October 2016

This study characterized the impacts of air voids on the low-temperature cracking behavior of dense-graded asphalt concrete. Virtual low-temperature bending beam test for dense-graded asphalt concrete was built and executed by discrete element method and PFC3D (particle flow code in three dimensions). Virtual tests were applied to analyze the impacts by content, distribution, and size of air voids on the low-temperature properties of dense-graded asphalt concrete. The results revealed that higher air void content results in worse low-temperature property of dense-graded asphalt concrete, especially when the air void content exceeds the designed air content; even with the same designed air void content, different distributing condition of air voids within asphalt concrete leads to different low-temperature properties of asphalt concrete, especially when the air void content in the central-lower part of testing sample varies. Bigger size of single air void which tends to form interconnected air voids within asphalt concrete has more harmful impacts on the low-temperature properties of asphalt concrete. Thus, to achieve satisfied low-temperature properties of dense-graded asphalt concrete, it is critical to ensure the designed air void content, improve the distribution of air voids, and reduce the interconnected air voids for dense-graded asphalt concrete.
Pilot Validation Study: Canadian Global Rating Scale for Colonoscopy Services
Authors: Carpentier Stéphanie , Sharara Nour , Barkun Alan N. , El Ouali Sara , Martel Myriam , Sewitch Maida J.
Published: October 2016

Background. The United Kingdom Global Rating Scale (GRS-UK) measures unit-level quality metrics processes in digestive endoscopy. We evaluated the psychometric properties of its Canadian version (GRS-C), endorsed by the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology (CAG). Methods. Prospective data collection at three Canadian endoscopy units assessed GRS-C validity, reliability, and responsiveness to change according to responses provided by physicians, endoscopy nurses, and administrative personnel. These responses were compared to national CAG endoscopic quality guidelines and GRS-UK statements. Results. Most respondents identified the overarching theme each GRS-C item targeted, confirming face validity. Content validity was suggested as 18 out of 23 key CAG endoscopic quality indicators (78%, 95% CI: 56–93%) were addressed in the GRS-C; statements not included pertained to educational programs and competency monitoring. Concordance ranged 75–100% comparing GRS-C and GRS-UK ratings. Test-retest reliability Kappa scores ranged 0.60–0.83, while responsiveness to change scores at 6 months after intervention implementations were greater (P<0.001) in two out of three units. Conclusion. The GRS-C exhibits satisfactory metrics, supporting its use in a national quality initiative aimed at improving processes in endoscopy units. Data collection from more units and linking to actual patient outcomes are required to ensure that GRS-C implementation facilitates improved patient care.
A Rare Primary Neuroendocrine Tumor (Typical Carcinoid) of the Sublingual Gland
Authors: Yamagata Kenji , Ohki Kousuke , Uchida Fumihiko , Kanno Naomi , Hasegawa Shogo , Yanagawa Toru , Bukawa Hiroki
Published: October 2016

A typical carcinoid is extremely rare in the oral cavity. We here present a case of a typical carcinoid arising in the sublingual gland of a 62-year-old woman. The tumor was removed by primary excision with 10 mm surgical margins and submandibular dissection. Examination of the tumor showed medium-sized tumor cells that were positive for CD56 and chromogranin A, with no necrosis, and with a mitotic count less than 1/10 HPF. A pathological diagnosis of typical carcinoid was made from both morphological and immunological examinations. One year after excision surgery, there was no tumor recurrence or neck metastasis.
Optical Coherence Tomography as a Biomarker for Diagnosis, Progression, and Prognosis of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Satue Maria , Obis Javier , Rodrigo Maria J. , Otin Sofia , Fuertes Maria I. , Vilades Elisa , Gracia Hector , Ara Jose R. , Alarcia Raquel , Polo Vicente , Larrosa Jose M. , Pablo Luis E. , Garcia-Martin Elena
Published: October 2016

Neurodegenerative diseases present a current challenge for accurate diagnosis and for providing precise prognostic information. Developing imaging biomarkers for multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson disease (PD), and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) will improve the clinical management of these patients and may be useful for monitoring treatment effectiveness. Recent research using optical coherence tomography (OCT) has demonstrated that parameters provided by this technology may be used as potential biomarkers for MS, PD, and AD. Retinal thinning has been observed in these patients and new segmentation software for the analysis of the different retinal layers may provide accurate information on disease progression and prognosis. In this review we analyze the application of retinal evaluation using OCT technology to provide better understanding of the possible role of the retinal layers thickness as biomarker for the detection of these neurodegenerative pathologies. Current OCT analysis of the retinal nerve fiber layer and, specially, the ganglion cell layer thickness may be considered as a good biomarker for disease diagnosis, severity, and progression.
ILS Heuristics for the Single-Machine Scheduling Problem with Sequence-Dependent Family Setup Times to Minimize Total Tardiness
Authors: Vilar Jacob Vinícius , Arroyo José Elias C.
Published: October 2016

This paper addresses a single-machine scheduling problem with sequence-dependent family setup times. In this problem the jobs are classified into families according to their similarity characteristics. Setup times are required on each occasion when the machine switches from processing jobs in one family to jobs in another family. The performance measure to be minimized is the total tardiness with respect to the given due dates of the jobs. The problem is classified asNP-hard in the ordinary sense. Since the computational complexity associated with the mathematical formulation of the problem makes it difficult for optimization solvers to deal with large-sized instances in reasonable solution time, efficient heuristic algorithms are needed to obtain near-optimal solutions. In this work we propose three heuristics based on the Iterated Local Search (ILS) metaheuristic. The first heuristic is a basic ILS, the second uses a dynamic perturbation size, and the third uses a Path Relinking (PR) technique as an intensification strategy. We carry out comprehensive computational and statistical experiments in order to analyze the performance of the proposed heuristics. The computational experiments show that the ILS heuristics outperform a genetic algorithm proposed in the literature. The ILS heuristic with dynamic perturbation size and PR intensification has a superior performance compared to other heuristics.
Identification and Validation of Compounds Selectively Killing Resistant Cancer: Delineating Cell Line–Specific Effects from P-Glycoprotein–Induced Toxicity
Authors: Füredi András , Tóth Szilárd , Szebényi Kornélia , Pape Veronika F.S. , Türk Dóra , Kucsma Nóra , Cervenak László , Tóvári József , Szakács Gergely
Published: October 2016

Despite significant progress, resistance to chemotherapy is still the main reason why cancer remains a deadly disease. An attractive strategy is to target the collateral sensitivity of otherwise multidrug resistant (MDR) cancer. In this study, our aim was to catalog various compounds that were reported to elicit increased toxicity in P-glycoprotein (Pgp)–overexpressing MDR cells. We show that the activity of most of the serendipitously identified compounds reported to target MDR cells is in fact cell-line specific, and is not influenced significantly by the function of Pgp. In contrast, novel 8-hydroxyquinoline derivatives that we identify in the National Cancer Institute (NCI) drug repository possess a robust Pgp-dependent toxic activity across diverse cell lines. Pgp expression associated with the resistance of the doxorubicin-resistant Brca1−/−;p53−/− spontaneous mouse mammary carcinoma cells could be eliminated by a single treatment with NSC57969, suggesting that MDR-selective compounds can effectively revert the MDR phenotype of cells expressing Pgp at clinically relevant levels. The discovery of new MDR-selective compounds shows the potential of this emerging technology and highlights the 8-hydroxyquinoline scaffold as a promising starting point for the development of compounds targeting the Achilles heel of drug-resistant cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(1); 45–56. ©2016 AACR.
Asymptomatic Multiple Lymphomatous Polyposis Identified during Staging Bidirectional Endoscopy of Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Dawsey Sonja P. , Gregory Jason A. , Brown Alexander W. , Jones Frances J.
Published: October 2016

Multiple lymphomatous polyposis (MLP) as an extranodal manifestation of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) in the gastrointestinal tract is rare and not often reported in the literature. We describe the case of a 63-year-old female with asymptomatic MLP found during staging bidirectional endoscopy of MCL. The patient presented only with dyspnea, but was found on physical exam to have diffuse lymphadenopathy, and subsequent positron emission tomography (PET) CT showed extensive lymph node adenopathy consistent with lymphoma. Excisional lymph node biopsy revealed high-risk MCL. Prior to therapy, staging bidirectional endoscopy was performed, which revealed duodenal bulb polyps and diffuse polyposis in the colon. Biopsies showed atypical lymphoid infiltrate identical to the initial excisional lymph node biopsy. The patient underwent aggressive induction therapy, chemotherapy and bone marrow transplantation. Four months later, repeat colonoscopy and biopsies showed normal mucosa, and repeat PET CT showed no evidence of systemic disease. Eight months later, the patient began having symptoms consistent with cauda equina syndrome, and she was found to have leptomeningeal recurrence of MCL. In spite of other medical treatment, the patient’s MCL progressed and she passed away 3 years after the initial presentation.
Glomerular Filtration Rate in Healthy Living Potential Kidney Donors: A Meta-Analysis Supporting the Construction of the Full Age Spectrum Equation
Authors: Pottel Hans , Hoste Liesbeth , Yayo Eric , Delanaye Pierre
Published: October 2016

Background: Normal kidney function or, more specifically, normal glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in men and women and its decline with age is still much debated today. The Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation has gender (and race) multiplication factors, accounts for a decline that starts at very young age and assumes that the mean GFR is as high as 120-130 ml/min/1.73 m2 from a young age. The full age spectrum (FAS) estimated mean GFR is about 107 ml/min/1.73 m2 at a young age and remains constant until the age of 40 years and then starts to decline both in men and women. The aim of this research study was to give more insight into ‘normal' GFR levels and the physiological decrease of kidney function with age and to use a meta-analysis to evaluate the mathematical construction of the FAS and the CKD-EPI equation. Methods: We conducted a meta-analysis of published GFR measurements in healthy Caucasian living potential kidney donors (n = 5,482, 46.8% men). Only publications dating from 2000 were selected to avoid the possible influence of body surface area changes in the last decades on the indexed GFR, expressed in ml/min/1.73 m2. Results: We found that the mean GFR ≈ 107 ml/min/1.73 m2 up to the age of 40 years, but renal decline begins beyond 40 years. No evidence could be found for any difference between men and women in the separate age groups. Conclusions: The current meta-analysis supports the mathematical form of the FAS equation, which matches the age/sex dependency of measured GFR for healthy potential living kidney donors.
Selective Interareal Synchronization through Gamma Frequency Differences and Slower-Rhythm Gamma Phase Reset
Authors: Burwick Thomas , Bouras Alexandros
Published: October 2016

The communication-through-coherence (CTC) hypothesis states that a sending group of neurons will have a particularly strong effect on a receiving group if both groups oscillate in a phase-locked (“coherent”) manner (Fries, 2005 , 2015 ). Here, we consider a situation with two visual stimuli, one in the focus of attention and the other distracting, resulting in two sites of excitation at an early cortical area that project to a common site in a next area. Taking a modeler’s perspective, we confirm the workings of a mechanism that was proposed by Bosman et al. ( 2012 ) in the context of providing experimental evidence for the CTC hypothesis: a slightly higher gamma frequency of the attended sending site compared to the distracting site may cause selective interareal synchronization with the receiving site if combined with a slow-rhythm gamma phase reset. We also demonstrate the relevance of a slightly lower intrinsic frequency of the receiving site for this scenario. Moreover, we discuss conditions for a transition from bottom-up to top-down driven phase locking.
Josephus’s Political Vision: Policy and Career Ambitions
Authors: Swoboda Sören
Published: October 2016

Discussing texts on political issues, my article shows that Josephus’s Jewish War reveals far more about his own ambitions in the existing political system than about positive political changes for his country or people, which in the 70s he at best hoped for. Anyone who wants to identify those hopes must distinguish him from “visionaries” like Paul, who were likewise concerned to present their convictions as not in conflict with political realities. Josephus must be understood as a tactician, who, unlike these authors, used his skills as a writer to profile himself and his people and who because of his own career ambitions was not willing to disclose anything that could have jeopardized him. My article suggests, moreover, that after the confusion of the war Josephus took up the role of a compassionate advocate for his people and as their “patron” found a career-promoting niche as mediator between Rome and Judaism.
The Revolution at One Hundred: Issues and Trends in the English Language Historiography of the Russian Revolution of 1917
Authors: Wade Rex A.
Published: October 2016

This essay tracks the evolution of English-language writing on the Russian Revolution breaking it down into three broad periods: up to the 1960s, the 1960s–1980s, and the post-Soviet era, with special stress on the latter period. It discusses trends and issues in writing on the history of the revolution and traces changes in the focus—political history, social history, cultural history, regional and nationality history, and other themes.