bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Anomaly Detection and Bottleneck Identification
Authors: Ibidunmoye Olumuyiwa , Hernández-Rodriguez Francisco , Elmroth Erik
Published: July 2015

In order to meet stringent performance requirements, system administrators must effectively detect undesirable performance behaviours, identify potential root causes, and take adequate corrective measures. The problem of uncovering and understanding performance anomalies and their causes (bottlenecks) in different system and application domains is well studied. In order to assess progress, research trends, and identify open challenges, we have reviewed major contributions in the area and present our findings in this survey. Our approach provides an overview of anomaly detection and bottleneck identification research as it relates to the performance of computing systems. By identifying fundamental elements of the problem, we are able to categorize existing solutions based on multiple factors such as the detection goals, nature of applications and systems, system observability, and detection methods.
The optimal neural strategy for a stable motor task requires a compromise between level of muscle cocontraction and synaptic gain of afferent feedback
Authors: Dideriksen Jakob L. , Negro Francesco , Farina Dario
Published: July 2015

Increasing joint stiffness by cocontraction of antagonist muscles and compensatory reflexes are neural strategies to minimize the impact of unexpected perturbations on movement. Combining these strategies, however, may compromise steadiness, as elements of the afferent input to motor pools innervating antagonist muscles are inherently negatively correlated. Consequently, a high afferent gain and active contractions of both muscles may imply negatively correlated neural drives to the muscles and thus an unstable limb position. This hypothesis was systematically explored with a novel computational model of the peripheral nervous system and the mechanics of one limb. Two populations of motor neurons received synaptic input from descending drive, spinal interneurons, and afferent feedback. Muscle force, simulated based on motor unit activity, determined limb movement that gave rise to afferent feedback from muscle spindles and Golgi tendon organs. The results indicated that optimal steadiness was achieved with low synaptic gain of the afferent feedback. High afferent gains during cocontraction implied increased levels of common drive in the motor neuron outputs, which were negatively correlated across the two populations, constraining instability of the limb. Increasing the force acting on the joint and the afferent gain both effectively minimized the impact of an external perturbation, and suboptimal adjustment of the afferent gain could be compensated by muscle cocontraction. These observations show that selection of the strategy for a given contraction implies a compromise between steadiness and effectiveness of compensations to perturbations. This indicates that a task-dependent selection of neural strategy for steadiness is necessary when acting in different environments.
The transformation of synaptic to system plasticity in motor output from the sacral cord of the adult mouse
Authors: Jiang Mingchen C. , Elbasiouny Sherif M. , Collins William F. , Heckman C. J.
Published: July 2015

Synaptic plasticity is fundamental in shaping the output of neural networks. The transformation of synaptic plasticity at the cellular level into plasticity at the system level involves multiple factors, including behavior of local networks of interneurons. Here we investigate the synaptic to system transformation for plasticity in motor output in an in vitro preparation of the adult mouse spinal cord. System plasticity was assessed from compound action potentials (APs) in spinal ventral roots, which were generated simultaneously by the axons of many motoneurons (MNs). Synaptic plasticity was assessed from intracellular recordings of MNs. A computer model of the MN pool was used to identify the middle steps in the transformation from synaptic to system behavior. Two input systems that converge on the same MN pool were studied: one sensory and one descending. The two synaptic input systems generated very different motor outputs, with sensory stimulation consistently evoking short-term depression (STD) whereas descending stimulation had bimodal plasticity: STD at low frequencies but short-term facilitation (STF) at high frequencies. Intracellular and pharmacological studies revealed contributions from monosynaptic excitation and stimulus time-locked inhibition but also considerable asynchronous excitation sustained from local network activity. The computer simulations showed that STD in the monosynaptic excitatory input was the primary driver of the system STD in the sensory input whereas network excitation underlies the bimodal plasticity in the descending system. These results provide insight on the roles of plasticity in the monosynaptic and polysynaptic inputs converging on the same MN pool to overall motor plasticity.
Gait asymmetry during early split-belt walking is related to perception of belt speed difference
Authors: Hoogkamer Wouter , Bruijn Sjoerd M. , Potocanac Zrinka , Van Calenbergh Frank , Swinnen Stephan P. , Duysens Jacques
Published: July 2015

Gait adaptation is essential for humans to walk according to the different demands of the environment. Although locomotor adaptation has been studied in different contexts and in various patient populations, the mechanisms behind locomotor adaptation are still not fully understood. The aim of the present study was to test two opposing hypotheses about the control of split-belt walking, one based on avoidance of limping and the other on avoiding limb excursion asymmetry. We assessed how well cerebellar patients with focal lesions and healthy control participants could sense differences between belt speeds during split-belt treadmill walking and correlated this to split-belt adaptation parameters. The ability to perceive differences between belt speeds was similar between the cerebellar patients and the healthy controls. After combining all participants, we observed a significant inverse correlation between stance time symmetry and limb excursion symmetry during the early phase of split-belt walking. Participants who were better able to perceive belt speed differences (e.g., they had a lower threshold and hence were able to detect a smaller speed difference) walked with the smallest asymmetry in stance time and the largest asymmetry in limb excursion. Our data support the hypothesis that humans aim to minimize (temporal) limping rather than (spatial) limb excursion asymmetry when using their perception of belt speed differences in the early phase of adaptation to split-belt walking.
Nanomaterials‐Based Approaches for the Modulation of Sodium Bicarbonate Cotransporters
Authors: Hong Jeong Hee
Published: July 2015

and fluid secretion are major functions of all epithelia, and alterations in secretion by sodium bicarbonate cotransporters are associated with many epithelial diseases, such as renal, ocular, and dental abnormalities. Electrolyte and fluid exits are synergistically mediated by the intracellular second messengers, cAMP and Ca2+, and this raises the possibility that ion transporters are involved in simple secretion and more complicated forms of regulation. Evidence indicates that transport is regulated by the assemblage of Na+‐ cotransporters (NBCs) into complexes by multiple regulatory factors. Recently the specific regulatory functions of factors that interact with NBCe1, especially NBCe1‐B, have been elucidated. In this review, I focus on the structural characteristics of electrogenic NBCe1, pathophysiology of NBCe1, and molecular mechanisms responsible for transporter regulation. Moreover I propose the possibility to apply nanomaterials combined with regulatory factors for modulating the activity of NBC transporters as a potential development of therapeutic drug.
Comparison of Measurement of Central Corneal Thickness with Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography and Standard Ultrasonic Pachymeter in Premature Infants
Authors: Hekimoglu Emre , Erol Muhammet Kazım , Toslak Devrim , Turgut Coban Deniz , Doğan Berna , Yucel Ozgur
Published: July 2015

Purpose. To evaluate the repeatability of measurement of central corneal thickness (CCT) by spectral domain optical coherence (SD-OCT) in premature infants and compare it to CCT measurement by ultrasonic pachymetry (USP).Methods. Three CCT measurements of the left eyes of 50 premature infants were obtained by SD-OCT using the iVue system. 10 CCT measurements of each 28 left eyes of 28 infants were obtained by USP using the Pacscan 300P system. Bland-Altman plots were developed and the limit of agreement (LoA) was determined to compare the mean of the SD-OCT and USP measurements.Results. No statistically significant difference was found among the 3 CCT measurements by SD-OCT. Both USP and SD-OCT have been performed for only left eyes of 28 of the 50 babies. Those results have been compared with each other. A statistically significant difference was found between the mean CCT measurements by SD-OCT and USP (p<0.05). The LoA between the SD-OCT and USP measurements ranged from 11.4 to −64.1.Conclusions. CCT can be measured using the iVue SD-OCT system with a high level of repeatability. Although measurement of CCT by SD-OCT and USP is highly correlated, the 2 systems cannot be used interchangeably in premature infants.
A Denoising Method for LiDAR Full-Waveform Data
Authors: Lai Xudong , Zheng Min
Published: July 2015

Decomposition of LiDAR full-waveform data can not only enhance the density and positioning accuracy of a point cloud, but also provide other useful parameters, such as pulse width, peak amplitude, and peak position which are important information for subsequent processing. Full-waveform data usually contain some random noises. Traditional filtering algorithms always cause distortion in the waveform.λ/μfiltering algorithm is based on Mean Shift method. It can smooth the signal iteratively and will not cause any distortion in the waveform. In this paper, an improvedλ/μfiltering algorithm is proposed, and several experiments on both simulated waveform data and real waveform data are implemented to prove the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Effect of Fluoride-Modified Titanium Surface on Early Adhesion of Irradiated Osteoblasts
Authors: Li Jun Yuan , Zheng Li Wu , Ma Li , Kwong Dora Lai Wan , Cheung Lim Kwong , Pow Edmond Ho Nang
Published: July 2015

Objective. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of fluoride-modified titanium surface on adhesion of irradiated osteoblasts.Materials and Methods. Fluoride-modified surface was obtained and the morphology, roughness, and chemical composition of the surface were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, respectively. The adhesion of irradiated osteoblast-like cells, in terms of number, area, and fluorescence intensity on the titanium surface, was evaluated using immunofluorescence staining.Results. Numerous nanosize pits were seen only in the F-TiO surface. The pits were more remarkable and uniform on F-TiO surface than on TiO surface; however, the amplitude of peaks and bottoms on F-TiO surface appeared to be smaller than on TiO surface. The Sa value and Sdr percentage of TiO surfaces were significantly higher than those of F-TiO surface. The concentrations of main elements such as titanium, oxygen, and carbon were similar on both surfaces. The number of irradiated osteoblasts adhered on the control surface was larger than on fluoride-modified surface. Meanwhile, the cells on the fluoride-modified surface formed more actin filaments.Conclusions. The fluoride-modified titanium surface alters the adhesion of irradiated osteoblasts. Further studies are needed to investigate the proliferation, differentiation, maturation, gene expression, and cytokine production of irradiated osteoblasts on fluoride-modified titanium surface.
Studies on Hydrogenation of Liquid Natural Rubber Using Diimide
Authors: Azhar Nur Hanis Adila , Jamaluddin Naharullah , Md Rasid Hamizah , Mohd Yusof Muhammad Jefri , Yusoff Siti Fairus M.
Published: July 2015

Liquid natural rubber (LNR) is a depolymerized natural rubber (NR) which consists of shorter polymeric chains and lower molecular weight (Mw<105). Hydrogenated LNR (HLNR) was synthesized via the thermal decomposition ofp-toluenesulfonyl hydrazide (TSH) or 2,4,6-trimethylbenzenesulfonyl hydrazide (MSH). The LNR and HLNR structures were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopies. The percentage of hydrogenation was calculated from NMR spectrum. The optimum percentage of hydrogenation (>90%) was achieved by manipulating the reaction parameters such as sources of diimide, TSH concentration, solvent, and reaction time. The optimum condition was 3 : 1 weight ratio of TSH/LNR ino-xylene at 130°C in 4-hour reaction period.
Effect of Prolonged Moderate Exercise on the Changes of Nonneuronal Cells in Early Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Rinaldi Barbara , Guida Francesca , Furiano Anna , Donniacuo Maria , Luongo Livio , Gritti Giulia , Urbanek Konrad , Messina Giovanni , Maione Sabatino , Rossi Francesco , de Novellis Vito
Published: July 2015

Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the leading causes of death in developed countries and it is characterized by several associated symptomatologies and poor quality of life. Recent data showed a possible interaction between infarction and brain inflammation and activity. Previous studies have demonstrated the beneficial effect of exercise training on deterioration in cardiac function after MI. In this study we analyzed in sedentary and trained rats the microglia and astrocytes 48 hours after MI in PVN, thalamus, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus through immunofluorescence approach. We found significant changes in specific microglia phenotypes in the brain areas analyzed together with astrocytes activation. Prolonged exercise normalized these morphological changes of microglia and astrocytes in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and thalamus but not in the PVN. Our data suggest that there is an early brain reaction to myocardial infarction induction, involving nonneuronal cells, that is attenuated by the prolonged exercise.
Off-Road Motorbike Performance Analysis Using a Rear Semiactive EH Suspension
Authors: Lozoya-Santos Jorge de-J. , Cervantes-Muñoz Damián , Tudón-Martínez Juan Carlos , Ramírez-Mendoza Ricardo A.
Published: July 2015

The topic of this paper is the analysis of a control system for a semiactive rear suspension in an off-road two-wheeled vehicle. Several control methods are studied, as well as the recently proposed Frequency Estimation Based (FEB) algorithm. The motorcycle dynamics, as well as the passive, and semiactive dampers, and the algorithm controlled shock absorber models are loaded into BikeSim, a professional two-wheeled vehicle simulation software, and tested in several road conditions. The results show a detailed comparison of the theoretical performance of the different control approaches in a novel environment for semiactive dampers.
Protective Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Grape Pomace against the Adverse Effects of Cypermethrin on Weanling Female Rats
Authors: Mossa Abdel-Tawab H. , Ibrahim Faten M. , Mohafrash Samia M. M. , Abou Baker Doha H. , El Gengaihi Souad
Published: July 2015

The adverse effect of cypermethrin on the liver and kidney of weanling female rats and the protective effect of ethanolic extract of grape pomace were investigated in the present study. Weanling female rats were given cypermethrin oral at a dose of 25 mg kg−1body weight for 28 consecutive days. An additional two Cyp-trated groups received extract at a dose of 100 and 200 mg kg−1body weight, respectively, throughout the experimental duration. Three groups more served as extract and control groups. Administration of Cyp resulted in a significant increase in serum marker enzymes, for example, aminotransferases (AST and ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and increases the level of urea nitrogen and creatinine. In contrast, Cyp caused significant decrease in levels of total protein and albumin and caused histopathological alterations in liver and kidneys of female rats. Coadministration of the extract to Cyp-treated female rats restored most of these biochemical parameters to within normal levels especially at high dose of extract. However, extract administration to Cyp-treated rats resulted in overall improvement in liver and kidney damage. This study demonstrated the adverse biohistological effects of Cyp on the liver and kidney of weanling female rats. The grape pomace extract administration prevented the toxic effect of Cyp on the above serum parameters. The present study concludes that grape pomace extract has significant antioxidant and hepatorenal protective activity.
Restoration Strategy Based on Optimal Relay Node Placement in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Wang Xiaoding , Xu Li , Zhou Shuming
Published: July 2015

In wireless sensor networks (WSNs), connecting disjoint segments is significant for network restoration, especially in some mission critical applications. However, the variability of distances between disjoint segments has tremendous influence on relay nodes deployment. In fact, finding the optimal solution for connecting disjoint segments in terms of the number and positions of relay nodes is NP-hard. To address this issue, plenty of heuristics, such as STP-MSP (Cheng et al., 2008), MST-1 tRN (Lloyd et al., 2007), and CORP (Lee and Younis, 2010) are deeply pursued. In this paper, we propose a distributed restoration algorithm based on optimal relay node placement (simply, ORNP). It aims at federating separated segments by populating the minimum number of relay nodes in a WSN that has suffered a significant damage. In addition, both of complexity and upper bound of the relay count for ORNP are explored. The simulation results show that ORNP performs better than STP-MSP, MST-1 tRN, and CORP in terms of relay count and the connectivity of resulting topology.
Parameter Estimation of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Using Orthogonal Projection and Recursive Least Squares Combinatorial Algorithm
Authors: Yousefi Iman , Ghanbari Mahmood
Published: July 2015

This paper presents parameter estimation of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) using a combinatorial algorithm. Nonlinear fourth-order space state model of PMSM is selected. This model is rewritten to the linear regression form without linearization. Noise is imposed to the system in order to provide a real condition, and then combinatorial Orthogonal Projection Algorithm and Recursive Least Squares (OPA&RLS) method is applied in the linear regression form to the system. Results of this method are compared to the Orthogonal Projection Algorithm (OPA) and Recursive Least Squares (RLS) methods to validate the feasibility of the proposed method. Simulation results validate the efficacy of the proposed algorithm.
Cardiorenal Syndrome Type 5:In VitroCytotoxicity Effects on Renal Tubular Cells and Inflammatory Profile
Authors: Brocca Alessandra , Virzì Grazia Maria , Pasqualin Chiara , Pastori Silvia , Marcante Stefano , de Cal Massimo , Ronco Claudio
Published: July 2015

Background. Cardiorenal Syndrome Type 5 (CRS Type 5) reflects concomitant cardiac and renal dysfunctions in the setting of a wide spectrum of systemic disorders. Our aim was to studyin vitroeffects of CRS Type 5 plasma on renal tubular cells (RTCs), in terms of cellular death and the characterization of inflammatory plasma profile in these patients.Material and Methods. We enrolled 11 CRS Type 5 patients from ICU and 16 healthy controls. Plasma from patients and controls was incubated with renal tubular cells (RTCs) and cell death was evaluated. Plasma cytokines were detected.Results. RTCs incubated with CRS Type 5 plasma showed significantly higher apoptosis and necrosis with respect to controls. Plasma cytokine profile of CRS Type 5 patients was significantly different from controls: we observed the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators in these patients. Caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 were activated in cells treated with CRS Type 5 plasma compared to controls.Conclusions. Our results underline the cytotoxic effect of CRS Type 5 mediators on RTC viability, probably due to the activation of both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis and to the deregulation of cytokine release. The consequence may be the damage of distant organs which lead to the worsening of condition of patients.
Clozapine-Induced Myocarditis: A Case Report of an Adolescent Boy with Intellectual Disability
Authors: Aboueid Lila , Toteja Nitin
Published: July 2015

Background. Although known for its efficacy in treatment-resistant schizophrenia, the usage of clozapine has been limited due to concerns over potential adverse effects. Myocarditis, one potential fatal complication, can develop at any point during treatment but has been most commonly observed 2-3 weeks after clozapine initiation.Objective. A case of acute clozapine-induced myocarditis is described, highlighting the history, onset, and treatment course of presentation. There is a need to raise awareness of this potential complication, especially in the pediatric population.Results. 17-year-old Puerto Rican boy, with history of schizophrenia, disorganized type (treatment resistant), and intellectual disability, developed myocarditis on the thirteenth day following clozapine commencement. Initial presenting symptoms included tachycardia, lethargy, and vague gastrointestinal distress. Patient fully recovered after supportive medical care and clozapine discontinuation.Conclusions. Myocarditis is a known potential complication of clozapine initiation; however, due to its limited usage in the pediatric population, reported cases are limited. There is a need to establish evidence-based monitoring guidelines for clozapine usage, particularly in the pediatric population where the presentation may be atypical and clinical suspicion may be overlooked.
An Isolated Phlebolith on the Lip: An Unusual Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Gouvêa Lima Gabriela de Morais , Moraes Renata Mendonça , Cavalcante Ana Sueli Rodrigues , Carvalho Yasmin Rodarte , Anbinder Ana Lia
Published: July 2015

Background. Calcified thrombi are a common finding, especially in the pelvic veins. There are generally multiple thrombi, and they are generally associated with vascular malformations.Design. Herein we report a rare case of a single labial phlebolith, not associated with any other vascular lesion. We aim to alert clinicians to the possibility of the occurrence of vascular thrombi in the mouth and to describe the clinical and histological characteristics of such lesions in order to simplify the diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, we have reviewed the English-language literature published since 1970 reporting oral (including masticatory muscles) phleboliths.Results. Twenty-nine cases of phleboliths have been reported in the literature since 1970. Only three of the reported phleboliths were solitary and not associated with other vascular lesions, as in the case presented here.Conclusion. Although phleboliths not associated with other vascular lesions are not common, clinicians should be aware of the existence of this pathology and include it as differential diagnosis of oral lesions.
Radiologic Evaluation of Compressive Osseointegration for the Fixation of Reconstruction Prostheses after Tumor Resection
Authors: Lazarov Manol , De Bo Thomas , Poffyn Bart , Sys Gwen
Published: July 2015

Objective. In pursuance of thoroughly understanding and facilitating the evaluation of the radiological changes in the preloaded bone by Compliant Pre-Stress osseointegration (Compress Biomet, Warsaw, Indiana) a new staging method was created depicting four stages.Methods. Two cohorts (10 and 17 patients resp., not-receiving and receiving chemotherapy) were compared in terms of progression of osseointegration. Based on the changes at the bone-metal interface seen on röntgenorgrams four stages were defined: stage 0: immediate postoperative status, no ingrowth, or noncalcified callus; stage 1: early mineralization, calcified callus; stage 2: mature mineralization; and stage 3: hypertrophy at the level of the pins.Results. There were no significant differences between the two cohorts. Group 2, which was significantly younger than group 1 (p<0.001), presented a delayed initial rate of bone formation and reached stage 1 at 6 months instead of 3 months like group 1. The children from the group 2 demonstrated a visible rebound ingrowth.Conclusion. Despite the fact that the staging fails to demonstrate a statistical difference, it is rather simple and can be used for future studies.
Single Incision Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy for Gallbladder Duplication
Authors: Kabul Gürbulak Esin , Özşahin Hamdi , Düzköylü Yiğit , Akgün Ismail Ethem , Battal Muharrem , Gürbulak Bünyamin
Published: July 2015

Duplication of the gallbladder is a rare congenital anomaly of the gallbladder, with an estimated prevalence of 1–3 per 3800 individuals. Unless properly diagnosed preoperatively, it can lead to biliary tract injuries and postoperative complications which may require reoperative surgeries. While previously reported cases have been treated with conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), treatment with single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) has not been reported yet. We herein present the case of a 58-year-old female with gallbladder duplication who was successfully treated with SILS cholecystectomy.
A Novel Mutation in theCYP11B1Gene Causes Steroid 11β-Hydroxylase Deficient Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia with Reversible Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Alqahtani Mohammad A. , Shati Ayed A. , Zou Minjing , Alsuheel Ali M. , Alhayani Abdullah A. , Al-Qahtani Saleh M. , Gilban Hessa M. , Meyer Brain F. , Shi Yufei
Published: July 2015

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to steroid 11β-hydroxylase deficiency is the second most common form of CAH, resulting from a mutation in theCYP11B1gene. Steroid 11β-hydroxylase deficiency results in excessive mineralcorticoids and androgen production leading to hypertension, precocious puberty with acne, enlarged penis, and hyperpigmentation of scrotum of genetically male infants. In the present study, we reported 3 male cases from a Saudi family who presented with penile enlargement, progressive darkness of skin, hypertension, and cardiomyopathy. The elder patient died due to heart failure and his younger brothers were treated with hydrocortisone and antihypertensive medications. Six months following treatment, cardiomyopathy disappeared with normal blood pressure and improvement in the skin pigmentation. The underlying molecular defect was investigated by PCR-sequencing analysis of all coding exons and intron-exon boundary of theCYP11B1gene. A novel biallelic mutation c.780 G>A in exon 4 of theCYP11B1gene was found in the patients. The mutation created a premature stop codon at amino acid 260 (p.W260∗), resulting in a truncated protein devoid of 11β-hydroxylase activity. Interestingly, a somatic mutation at the same codon (c.779 G>A,p.W260∗) was reported in a patient with papillary thyroid cancer (COSMIC database). In conclusion, we have identified a novel nonsense mutation in theCYP11B1gene that causes classic steroid 11β-hydroxylase deficient CAH. Cardiomyopathy and cardiac failure can be reversed by early diagnosis and treatment.
miR‐106a Is Downregulated in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Chronic Hepatitis B and Associated with Enhanced Levels of Interleukin‐8
Authors: Hong Zhongsi , Hong Haiyu , Liu Jian , Zheng Xiaobin , Huang Mingxing , Li Chunna , Xia Jinyu
Published: July 2015

Aims. This study aimed to investigate miR‐106a expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients and to analyze the function of miR‐106a. Materials and Methods. miR‐106a expression levels in PBMCs from 40 healthy controls and 56 CHB patients were analyzed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). The luciferase activity assays were used to determine whether miR‐106a binds to 3′UTR of IL‐8. miR‐106a mimics and inhibitors were transfected into healthy PBMCs. IL‐8 mRNA and protein levels were detected and determined by qRT‐PCR and ELISA, respectively. Results. The qRT‐PCR results suggested that the PBMC miR‐106a levels were decreased in CHB patients. IL‐8 was augmented in CHB patients and was inversely correlated with miR‐106a levels. The luciferase activity assays indicated that IL‐8 is a target of miR‐106a. Exogenous expression of miR‐106a could significantly repress IL‐8 expression at both mRNA and protein levels in PBMCs, whereas miR‐106a inhibitor had the opposite effects. Conclusions. This study suggested that miR‐106a is downregulated in PBMCs of CHB patients and that miR‐106a may play an important role in CHB by targeting IL‐8.
Aloe vera Gel: Effective Therapeutic Agent against Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates Recovered from Burn Wound Infections
Authors: Goudarzi Mehdi , Fazeli Maryam , Azad Mehdi , Seyedjavadi Sima Sadat , Mousavi Reza
Published: July 2015

Objective. Aloe vera is an herbal medicinal plant with biological activities, such as antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic ones, and immunomodulatory properties. The purpose of this study was investigation of in vitro antimicrobial activity of A. vera gel against multidrug-resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from patients with burn wound infections. Methods. During a 6-month study, 140 clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa were collected from patients admitted to the burn wards of a hospital in Tehran, Iran. Antimicrobial susceptibility test was carried out against the pathogens using the A. vera gel and antibiotics (imipenem, gentamicin, and ciprofloxacin). Results. The antibiogram revealed that 47 (33.6%) of all isolates were MDR P. aeruginosa. The extract isolated from A. vera has antibacterial activity against all of isolates. Also, 42 (89.4%) isolates were inhibited by A. vera gel extract at minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ≤ 200 µg/mL. MIC value of A. vera gel for other isolates (10.6%) was 800 µg/mL. All of MDR P. aeruginosa strains were inhibited by A. vera at similar MIC50 and MIC90 200 µg/mL. Conclusion. Based on our results, A. vera gel at various concentrations can be used as an effective antibacterial agent in order to prevent wound infection caused by P. aeruginosa.
A Thermo-Hygro-Coupled Model for Chloride Penetration in Concrete Structures
Authors: Damrongwiriyanupap Nattapong , Limkatanyu Suchart , Xi Yunping
Published: July 2015

Corrosion damage due to chloride attack is one of the most concerning issues for long term durability of reinforced concrete structures. By developing the reliable mathematical model of chloride penetration into concrete structures, it can help structural engineers and management agencies with predicting the service life of reinforced concrete structures in order to effectively schedule the maintenance, repair, and rehabilitation program. This paper presents a theoretical and computational model for chloride diffusion in concrete structures. The governing equations are taking into account the coupled transport process of chloride ions, moisture, and temperature. This represents the actual condition of concrete structures which are always found in nonsaturated and nonisothermal conditions. The fully coupled effects among chloride, moisture, and heat diffusion are considered and included in the model. The coupling parameters evaluated based on the available material models and test data are proposed and explicitly incorporated in the governing equations. The numerical analysis of coupled transport equations is performed using the finite element method. The model is validated by comparing the numerical results against the available experimental data and a good agreement is observed.
In-Structure Shock of Surface Structures: A Theoretical Approach
Authors: Zhou Hongyuan , Wang Xiaojuan
Published: July 2015

Metal foam cladding emerges as a promising measure for structure protection against close range blast. With proper cladding design, a considerable amount of energy can be absorbed while the load transmitted to the protected structure can be lowered to a controllable level, leading to less damage of the protected structure. However, it is not clear whether the in-structure shock can be mitigated by attaching foam cladding. The present study theoretically investigates the response of a structural member subjected to a close range blast, for both scenarios with and without attaching foam cladding. Subsequently, shock response spectra are employed to assess the in-structure shock of both situations. It is found that applying foam cladding does not effectively mitigate in-structure shock of surface structures.
Fingolimod Treatment in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Prospective Observational Multicenter Postmarketing Study
Authors: Totaro Rocco , Di Carmine Caterina , Costantino Gianfranco , Fantozzi Roberta , Bellantonio Paolo , Fuiani Aurora , Mundi Ciro , Ruggieri Stefano , Marini Carmine , Carolei Antonio
Published: July 2015

Objective. The aim of this prospective observational multicenter postmarketing study was to evaluate fingolimod efficacy in a real world clinical setting.Methods. One hundred forty-two subjects with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) were enrolled in three multiple sclerosis centers throughout Central and Southern Italy between January 2011 and September 2013. After enrollment, regular visits and EDSS assessment were scheduled every 3 months, and MRI scan was obtained every 12 months. Patients were followed up from 1 to 33 months (mean 14.95 ± 9.15 months). The main efficacy endpoints included the proportion of patients free from clinical relapses, from disability progression, from magnetic resonance imaging activity, and from any disease activity.Results. Out of 142 patients enrolled in the study, 88.1% were free from clinical relapse and 69.0% were free from disability progression; 68.5% of patients remained free from new or newly enlarging T2 lesions and 81.7% of patients were free from gadolinium enhancing lesions. Overall the proportion of patients free from any disease activity was 41.9%.Conclusions. Our data in a real world cohort are consistent with previous findings that yield convincing evidence for the efficacy of fingolimod in patients with RRMS.
Assessment of MRI Issues at 3 Tesla for a New Metallic Tissue Marker
Authors: Cronenweth Charlotte M. , Shellock Frank G.
Published: July 2015

Purpose. To assess the MRI issues at 3 Tesla for a metallic tissue marker used to localize removal areas of tissue abnormalities.Materials and Methods. A newly designed, metallic tissue marker (Achieve Marker, CareFusion, Vernon Hills, IL) used to mark biopsy sites, particularly in breasts, was assessed for MRI issues which included standardized tests to determine magnetic field interactions (i.e., translational attraction and torque), MRI-related heating, and artifacts at 3 Tesla. Temperature changes were determined for the marker using a gelled-saline-filled phantom. MRI was performed at a relatively high specific absorption rate (whole body averaged SAR, 2.9-W/kg). MRI artifacts were evaluated using T1-weighted, spin echo and gradient echo pulse sequences.Results. The marker displayed minimal magnetic field interactions (2-degree deflection angle and no torque). MRI-related heating was only 0.1°C above background heating (i.e., the heating without the tissue marker present). Artifacts seen as localized signal loss were relatively small in relation to the size and shape of the marker.Conclusions. Based on the findings, the new metallic tissue marker is acceptable or “MR Conditional” (using current labeling terminology) for a patient undergoing an MRI procedure at 3 Tesla or less.
Simultaneous Fault Detection and Control for Discrete-Time Systems via a Switched Scheme
Authors: Li Jian , Dai Xingze
Published: July 2015

This paper is concerned with the problem of simultaneous fault detection and control for linear systems with a switched scheme. The switched detector/controller is designed simultaneously and generates two signals such that it provides fault tolerance, especially including “destabilizing failure” meanwhile, it generates the residual signal to alarm the fault. When the faults are detected, the detector/controller is switched to reduce the effect of the faults. When the faults are removed, the detector/controller is switched to the original detector/controller to guarantee the control objective. In addition, it has time delay in detection of the faults; then the time-driven switching strategy for asynchronous case is included. Thus a mixed switching strategy is proposed. A two-step procedure is adopted to obtain the solutions through satisfying a set of linear matrix inequalities. Finally, an example is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design method.
Aeromonas salmonicidaInfection Only Moderately Regulates Expression of Factors Contributing to Toll-Like Receptor Signaling but Massively Activates the Cellular and Humoral Branches of Innate Immunity in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Brietzke Andreas , Korytář Tomáš , Jaros Joanna , Köllner Bernd , Goldammer Tom , Seyfert Hans-Martin , Rebl Alexander
Published: July 2015

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are known to detect a defined spectrum of microbial structures. However, the knowledge about the specificity of teleost Tlr factors for distinct pathogens is limited so far. We measured baseline expression profiles of 18tlrgenes and associated signaling factors in four immune-relevant tissues of rainbow troutOncorhynchus mykiss. Intraperitoneal injection of a lethal dose ofAeromonas salmonicidasubsp.salmonicidainduced highly increased levels of cytokine mRNAs during a 72-hour postinfection (hpi) period. In contrast, only the fish-specifictlr22a2and the downstream factorirak1featured clearly increased transcript levels, while the mRNA concentrations of many othertlrgenes decreased. Flow cytometry quantified cell trafficking after infection indicating a dramatic influx of myeloid cells into the peritoneum and a belated low level immigration of lymphoid cells. T and B lymphocytes were differentiated with RT-qPCR revealing that B lymphocytes emigrated from and T lymphocytes immigrated into head kidney. In conclusion, no specific TLR can be singled out as a dominant receptor forA. salmonicida. The recruitment of cellular factors of innate immunity rather than induced expression of pathogen receptors is hence of key importance for mounting a first immune defense against invadingA. salmonicida.
Spin and Pseudospin Symmetry in Generalized Manning-Rosen Potential
Authors: Yanar Hilmi , Havare Ali
Published: July 2015

Spin and pseudospin symmetric Dirac spinors and energy relations are obtained by solving the Dirac equation with centrifugal term for a new suggested generalized Manning-Rosen potential which includes the potentials describing the nuclear and molecular structures. To solve the Dirac equation the Nikiforov-Uvarov method is used and also applied the Pekeris approximation to the centrifugal term. Energy eigenvalues for bound states are found numerically in the case of spin and pseudospin symmetry. Besides, the data attained in the present study are compared with the results obtained in the previous studies and it is seen that our data are consistent with the earlier ones.
A Case of Giant Uterine Lipoleiomyoma Simulating Malignancy
Authors: Karaman Erbil , Çim Numan , Bulut Gülay , Elçi Gülhan , Andıç Esra , Tekin Mustafa , Kolusarı Ali
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Uterine leiomyoma is the most common benign pathology in women and lipoleiomyoma is an extremely rare and specific type of leiomyoma. Here, we report an unusual case of giant pedunculated subserous lipoleiomyoma misdiagnosed preoperatively as leiomyosarcoma.Case. A 45-year-old woman admitted to our gynecology outpatient clinic for complaints of abdominal distention, tiredness, and pelvic pain for the last 6 months. Sonography and abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a giant semisolid mass that filled whole abdominal cavity from pelvis to subdiaphragmatic area. A primary diagnosis of uterine sarcoma or ovarian malignancy was made. On operation, total abdominal hysterectomy with a pedunculated mass of size 30 × 23 × 12 cm and weighing 5.4 kg and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy were performed. The histopathology revealed a lipoleiomyoma with extensive cystic and fatty degeneration without any malignancy.Discussion. The diagnosis of leiomyoma is done usually with pelvic ultrasound but sometimes it is difficult to reach a correct diagnosis especially in cases of giant and pedunculated lipoleiomyoma that included fatty tissue which may mimick malignancy.Conclusion. Subserous pedunculated giant lipoleiomyoma should be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma or ovarian malignancy.
ABCG2 Transporter Expression Impacts Group 3 Medulloblastoma Response to Chemotherapy
Authors: Morfouace Marie , Cheepala Satish , Jackson Sadhana , Fukuda Yu , Patel Yogesh T. , Fatima Soghra , Kawauchi Daisuke , Shelat Anang A. , Stewart Clinton F. , Sorrentino Brian P. , Schuetz John D. , Roussel Martine F.
Published: July 2015

While a small number of plasma membrane ABC transporters can export chemotherapeutic drugs and confer drug resistance, it is unknown whether these transporters are expressed or functional in less therapeutically tractable cancers such as Group 3 (G3) medulloblastoma. Herein we show that among this class of drug transporters, only ABCG2 was expressed at highly increased levels in human G3 medulloblastoma and a mouse model of this disease. In the mouse model, Abcg2 protein was expressed at the plasma membrane where it functioned as expected on the basis of export of prototypical substrates. By screening ABC substrates against mouse G3 medulloblastoma tumorspheres in vitro, we found that Abcg2 inhibition could potentiate responses to the clinically used drug topotecan, producing a more than 9-fold suppression of cell proliferation. Extended studies in vivo in this model confirmed that Abcg2 inhibition was sufficient to enhance antiproliferative responses to topotecan, producing a significant survival advantage compared with subjects treated with topotecan alone. Our findings offer a preclinical proof of concept for blockade of ABCG2 transporter activity as a strategy to empower chemotherapeutic responses in G3 medulloblastoma. Cancer Res; 75(18); 3879–89. ©2015 AACR.
Early Changes in Circulating Tumor Cells Are Associated with Response and Survival Following Treatment of Metastatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
Authors: Khan Mohid S. , Kirkwood Amy A. , Tsigani Theodora , Lowe Helen , Goldstein Robert , Hartley John A. , Caplin Martyn E. , Meyer Tim
Published: July 2015

Purpose: To investigate posttreatment circulating tumor cell (CTC) counts in patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) as a predictive biomarker for disease progression and overall survival (OS).

Experimental Design: Patients with metastatic NENs commencing therapy were prospectively recruited (n = 138). Blood samples were obtained for evaluation of CTCs using the CellSearch platform and for chromogranin A (CgA) at baseline, three to five (median, 4.3) weeks and 10 to 15 (median 13.7) weeks after commencing therapy. Radiologic response and OS data were collected.

Results: There was a significant association between first posttreatment CTC count and progressive disease (PD; P < 0.001). Only 8% of patients with a favorable “CTC response” (0 CTCs at baseline and 0 at first posttreatment time-point; or ≥50% reduction from baseline) had PD compared with 60% in the unfavorable group (<50% reduction or increase). Changes in CTCs were strongly associated with OS (P < 0.001), the best prognostic group being patients with 0 CTCs before and after therapy; followed by those with ≥50% reduction in CTCs [hazard ratio (HR), 3.31]; with those with a <50% reduction or increase in CTCs (HR, 5.07) having the worst outcome. In multivariate analysis, changes in CTCs had the strongest association with OS (HR, 4.13; P = 0.0002). Changes in CgA were not significantly associated with survival.

Conclusions: Changes in CTCs are associated with response to treatment and OS in metastatic NENs, suggesting CTCs may be useful as surrogate markers to direct clinical decision making. Clin Cancer Res; 22(1); 79–85. ©2015 AACR.
Loss of Host Type-I IFN Signaling Accelerates Metastasis and Impairs NK-cell Antitumor Function in Multiple Models of Breast Cancer
Authors: Rautela Jai , Baschuk Nikola , Slaney Clare Y. , Jayatilleke Krishnath M. , Xiao Kun , Bidwell Bradley N. , Lucas Erin C. , Hawkins Edwin D. , Lock Peter , Wong Christina S. , Chen Weisan , Anderson Robin L. , Hertzog Paul J. , Andrews Daniel M. , Möller Andreas , Parker Belinda S.
Published: July 2015

Metastatic progression is the major cause of breast cancer–related mortality. By examining multiple syngeneic preclinical breast cancer models in mice lacking a functional type-I interferon receptor (Ifnar1−/− mice), we show that host-derived type-I interferon (IFN) signaling is a critical determinant of metastatic spread that is independent of primary tumor growth. In particular, we show that bone metastasis can be accelerated in Balb/c Ifnar1−/− mice bearing either 4T1 or 66cl4 orthotopic tumors and, for the first time, present data showing the development of bone metastasis in the C57Bl/6 spontaneous MMTV-PyMT–driven model of tumorigenesis. Further exploration of these results revealed that endogenous type-I IFN signaling to the host hematopoietic system is a key determinant of metastasis-free survival and critical to the responsiveness of the circulating natural killer (NK)–cell population. We find that in vivo–stimulated NK cells derived from wild-type, but not Ifnar1−/−, mice can eliminate the 4T1 and 66cl4 breast tumor lines with varying kinetics in vitro. Together, this study indicates that the dysregulated immunity resulting from a loss of host type-I IFN signaling is sufficient to drive metastasis, and provides a rationale for targeting the endogenous type-I IFN pathway as an antimetastatic strategy. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(11); 1207–17. ©2015 AACR.
The Emerging Genetic Basis and Its Clinical Implication in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Chen Fei , Guo Yang , Wang Liangjing
Published: July 2015

Background: Pancreatic cancer is one of the most devastating diseases without early detection, effective screening biomarkers and therapeutic treatments. In the past decades, genetic studies have indicated various genes related to this malignancy. Summary: Genetic alterations have been involved in the initiation, progression and invasion of pancreatic cancer, which might indicate promising targets for early screening, diagnosis and future intervention. Here we will review genetic changes in pancreatic cancer and analyze their correlations with several common precursors and familial syndromes. Key Message: Genetic analysis for pancreatic cancer or its precursors might help us to characterize patients into subtype individuals in the future and have significant implications for individualized treatments. Practical Implications: At present, pancreatic cancer is regarded as a disease with a wide range of genetic alterations, including germline and somatic mutations. Some genetic alterations such as KRAS, p16CDKN2A, TP53 and SMAD4 were specifically correlated with different types of histological precursors of pancreatic cancer and some familial syndromes highly related to pancreatic cancer. Moreover, genetic changes also predict drug sensitivity and implicate novel therapeutic targets.