bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnitude of Anemia and Associated Factors among Pediatric HIV/AIDS Patients Attending Zewditu Memorial Hospital ART Clinic, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Mihiretie Hylemariam , Taye Bineyam , Tsegaye Aster
Published: March 2015

Background. Anemia is one of the most commonly observed hematological abnormalities and an independent prognostic marker of HIV disease. The aim of this study was to determine the magnitude of anemia and associated factors among pediatric HIV/AIDS patients attending Zewditu Memorial Hospital (ZMH) ART Clinic in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among pediatric HIV/AIDS patients of Zewditu Memorial Hospital (ZMH) between August 05, 2013, and November 25, 2013. A total of 180 children were selected consecutively. Stool specimen was collected and processed. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics and associated risk factors. Data were entered into EpiData 3.1.1. and were analyzed using SPSS version 16 software. Logistic regressions were applied to assess any association between explanatory factors and outcome variables.Results. The total prevalence of anemia was 22.2% where 21 (52.5%), 17 (42.5%), and 2 (5.0%) patients had mild, moderate, and severe anemia. There was a significant increase in severity and prevalence of anemia in those with CD4+ T cell counts below 350 cells/μL (P<0.05). Having intestinal parasitic infections (AOR = 2.7, 95% CI, 1.1–7.2), having lower CD4+ T cell count (AOR = 3.8, 95% CI, 1.6–9.4), and being HAART naïve (AOR = 2.3, 95% CI, 1.6–9.4) were identified as significant predictors of anemia.Conclusion. Anemia was more prevalent and severe in patients with low CD4+ T cell counts, patients infected with intestinal parasites/helminthes, and HAART naïve patients. Therefore, public health measures and regular follow-up are necessary to prevent anemia.
Numerical Study on Infrared Optical Property of Diffuse Coal Particles in Mine Fully Mechanized Working Combined with CFD Method
Authors: Wang Wen-Zheng , Wang Yan-Ming , Shi Guo-Qing , Wang De-Ming
Published: March 2015

Coal dust seriously threatens the safety and occupational health of coal mines. Numerical simulation research on the infrared radiation characteristics of diffused coal dust is carried out in fully mechanized working faces based on the optical monitoring problem of dust particles in mine atmospheric environments. The CFD method is applied to obtain the law of dust transport and distribution. Combined with Mie scattering model, the infrared radiation change characteristics and spectral selection of diffused coal dust particles are simulated and analyzed along the working face. The comparison results show the following: the attenuation and scattering characteristics of mine dust particles system are first enhanced, and then they weaken as the distance from dust source increases. The infrared attenuation of mine dust at the center of the vertical cross-section is generally greater than that at the roof and floor in the same location. The dispersion of mine dust directly determines the attenuation contribution of respirable dust to total dust. Moreover, the infrared absorption effect of functional groups in coal causes the infrared attenuation effect of coal dust to have obvious optical selectivity along the roadway, the existing optical “window.”
Orientation Mapping of Extruded Polymeric Composites by Polarized Micro-Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Chen Xiaoyun , Leugers M. Anne , Kirch Tim , Stanley Jamie
Published: March 2015

Molecular orientation has a strong influence on polymeric composite materials’ mechanical properties. In this paper we describe the use of polarized micro-Raman spectroscopy as a powerful tool to map out the molecular orientation of a uniaxially oriented polypropylene- (PP-) based composite material. Initial samples exhibited a high degree of surface fibrillation upon cutting. Raman spectroscopy was used to characterize the degree of orientation in the skin and guide the development of the posttreatment process to optimize the skin relaxation while maintaining the high degree of orientation in the rest of the board. The PP oriented polymer composite (OPC) was oriented through an extrusion process and its surface was then treated to achieve relaxation. Micro-Raman analysis at the surface region demonstrated the surface orientation relaxation, and the results provide an effective way to correlate the extent of relaxation and process conditions. Larger scale orientation mapping was also carried out over the entire cross-section (12.7 cm × 2.54 cm). The results agree well with prior expectation of the molecular orientation based on the extrusion and subsequent quenching process. The methodologies described here can be readily applied to other polymeric systems.
Assessments of Wind‐Energy Potential in Selected Sites from Three Geopolitical Zones in Nigeria: Implications for Renewable/Sustainable Rural Electrification
Authors: Okeniyi Joshua Olusegun , Ohunakin Olayinka Soledayo , Okeniyi Elizabeth Toyin
Published: March 2015

Electricity generation in rural communities is an acute problem militating against socioeconomic well‐being of the populace in these communities in developing countries, including Nigeria. In this paper, assessments of wind‐energy potential in selected sites from three major geopolitical zones of Nigeria were investigated. For this, daily wind‐speed data from Katsina in northern, Warri in southwestern and Calabar in southeastern Nigeria were analysed using the Gumbel and the Weibull probability distributions for assessing wind‐energy potential as a renewable/sustainable solution for the country’s rural‐electrification problems. Results showed that the wind‐speed models identified Katsina with higher wind‐speed class than both Warri and Calabar that were otherwise identified as low wind‐speed sites. However, econometrics of electricity power simulation at different hub heights of low wind‐speed turbine systems showed that the cost of electric‐power generation in the three study sites was converging to affordable cost per kWh of electric energy from the wind resource at each site. These power simulations identified cost/kWh of electricity generation at Kaduna as €0.0507, at Warri as €0.0774, and at Calabar as €0.0819. These bare positive implications on renewable/sustainable rural electrification in the study sites even as requisite options for promoting utilization of this viable wind‐resource energy in the remote communities in the environs of the study sites were suggested.
Clinical and Biochemical Manifestations of Depression: Relation to the Neurobiology of Stress
Authors: Gold Phillip W. , Machado-Vieira Rodrigo , Pavlatou Maria G.
Published: March 2015

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a chronic, recurrent, and severe psychiatric disorder with high mortality and medical comorbidities. Stress-related pathways have been directly involved in the pathophysiology and treatment of MDD. The present paper provides an overview on the stress system as a model to understand key pathophysiological paradigms in MDD. These mechanisms involve behavioral, cognitive, and systemic manifestations and are also associated with the mechanisms of action of effective antidepressants. Aspects such as depression subtypes, inflammation, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and prothrombotic states in critical brain circuits and periphery are critically appraised. Finally, new strategies for approaching treatment-resistant major depression and potential adverse effects associated with this complex and intricate network are highlighted. The authors used PubMed as the database for this review. Each author extracted relevant data and assessed the methodological quality of each study.
The Bipolar Depression Electrical Treatment Trial (BETTER): Design, Rationale, and Objectives of a Randomized, Sham-Controlled Trial and Data from the Pilot Study Phase
Authors: Pereira Junior Bernardo de Sampaio , Tortella Gabriel , Lafer Beny , Nunes Paula , Benseñor Isabela Martins , Lotufo Paulo Andrade , Machado-Vieira Rodrigo , Brunoni André R.
Published: March 2015

Background. Bipolar depression (BD) is a prevalent condition, with poor therapeutic options and a high degree of refractoriness. This justifies the development of novel treatment strategies, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) that showed promising results in unipolar depression.Methods. We describe a randomized, sham-controlled, double-blinded trial using tDCS for refractory, acutely symptomatic BD (the bipolar depression electrical treatment trial, BETTER). Sixty patients will be enrolled and assessed with clinical and neuropsychological tests. The primary outcome is change (over time and across groups) in the scores of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (17 items). Biological markers such as blood neurotrophins and interleukins, genetic polymorphisms, heart rate variability, and motor cortical excitability will be assessed. Twelve anodal-left/cathodal-right 2 mA tDCS sessions over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex will be performed in 6 weeks.Results. In the pilot phase, five patients received active tDCS and were double-blindly assessed, two presenting clinical response. TDCS was well-tolerated, with no changes in cognitive scores.Conclusion. This upcoming clinical trial will address the efficacy of tDCS for BD on different degrees of refractoriness. The evaluation of biological markers will also help in understanding the pathophysiology of BD and the mechanisms of action of tDCS.
From Determinism and Probability to Chaos: Chaotic Evolution towards Philosophy and Methodology of Chaotic Optimization
Authors: Pei Yan
Published: March 2015

We present and discuss philosophy and methodology of chaotic evolution that is theoretically supported by chaos theory. We introduce four chaotic systems, that is, logistic map, tent map, Gaussian map, and Hénon map, in a well‐designed chaotic evolution algorithm framework to implement several chaotic evolution (CE) algorithms. By comparing our previous proposed CE algorithm with logistic map and two canonical differential evolution (DE) algorithms, we analyse and discuss optimization performance of CE algorithm. An investigation on the relationship between optimization capability of CE algorithm and distribution characteristic of chaotic system is conducted and analysed. From evaluation result, we find that distribution of chaotic system is an essential factor to influence optimization performance of CE algorithm. We propose a new interactive EC (IEC) algorithm, interactive chaotic evolution (ICE) that replaces fitness function with a real human in CE algorithm framework. There is a paired comparison‐based mechanism behind CE search scheme in nature. A simulation experimental evaluation is conducted with a pseudo‐IEC user to evaluate our proposed ICE algorithm. The evaluation result indicates that ICE algorithm can obtain a significant better performance than or the same performance as interactive DE. Some open topics on CE, ICE, fusion of these optimization techniques, algorithmic notation, and others are presented and discussed.
Detection of Dissolved Carbon Monoxide in Transformer Oil Using 1.567 μm Diode Laser-Based Photoacoustic Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhou Qu , Tang Chao , Zhu Shiping , Chen Weigen , Peng Xiaojuan
Published: March 2015

Carbon monoxide (CO) is one of the most important fault characteristic gases dissolved in power transformer oil. With the advantages of high sensitivity and accuracy, long-term stability, and short detection time, photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) has been proven to be one promising sensing technology for trace gas recognition. In this investigation, a tunable PAS experimental system based on a distributed-feedback (DFB) diode laser was proposed for recognizing dissolved CO in transformer oil. The molecular spectral line of CO gas detection was selected at 1.567 μm in the whole experiment. Relationships between the photoacoustic (PA) signal and gas pressure, temperature, laser power, and CO gas concentration were measured and discussed in detail, respectively. Finally, based on the least square regression theory, a novel quantitative identification method for CO gas detection with the PAS experimental system was proposed. And a comparative research about the gas detection performances performed by the PAS system and gas chromatography (GC) measurement was presented. All results lay a solid foundation for exploring a portable and tunable CO gas PAS detection device for practical application in future.
Rapid Antidepressant Activity of Ethanol Extract ofGardenia jasminoidesEllis Is Associated with Upregulation of BDNF Expression in the Hippocampus
Authors: Zhang Hailou , Xue Wenda , Wu Runjie , Gong Tong , Tao Weiwei , Zhou Xin , Jiang Jingjing , Zhang Ying , Zhang Nan , Cui Yi , Chen Chang , Chen Gang
Published: March 2015

Ethanol extract of Yueju pill, a Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal formula widely used to treat mood disorders, demonstrates rapid antidepressant effects similar to ketamine, likely via instant enhancement of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in the hippocampus. Here we investigated ethanol extracts of the constituent herbs of Yueju responsible for rapid antidepressant effects. Screening with tail suspension test in Kunming mice at 24 hours after a single administration of five individual constituent herbs of Yueju, we found that onlyGardenia jasminoidesEllis (GJ) showed a significant effect. The antidepressant response started at 2 hours after GJ administration. Similar to Yueju and ketamine, a single administration of GJ significantly reduced the number of escape failures in the learned helplessness test. Furthermore, GJ decreased latency of food consumption in the novelty suppressed-feeding test. Additionally, starting from 2 hours and continuing for over 20 hours after GJ administration, BDNF expression in the hippocampus was upregulated, temporally linked with the antidepressant response. These findings suggest that GJ has rapid antidepressant effects, which are associated with the elevated expression of BDNF in the hippocampus. In Yueju formula, Yue represents GJ, as thus our study demonstrates the primary role of GJ in rapid antidepressant efficacy of Yueju.
Cytotoxicity Induced by Tetracyclines via Protein Photooxidation
Authors: Fuoco Domenico
Published: March 2015

Background. Bacterial ribosomes have been considered the principal targets of tetracyclines. Recently, new clinical data has shown how other biomacromolecules are involved in the cellular damage of bacteria. Researchers are now reconsidering the pharmacological classification of tetracyclines, not only based on their semisynthetic or synthetic generations but also following the new mechanisms of action that are progressively being discovered. Materials and Methods. The toxicity properties of seven tetracycline derivatives (tetracycline, oxytetracycline, demeclocycline, chlortetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline, and meclocycline) were investigated in vitro using a cell line of human keratinocytes. Cells were irradiated in the presence of tetracyclines for different durations and at three different intensities of light. The investigation of protein oxidation was set up using model proteins to quantify the formation of carbonyl groups. Results. After incubation and irradiation with UV light, the viability of keratinocytes was assessed with half the maximal inhibitory concentration for doxycycline, demeclocycline, chlortetracycline, and tetracycline. No phototoxicity was observed for oxytetracycline, meclocycline, and minocycline. Conclusions. This study provides evidence that tetracycline’s derivatives show different photobehaviour according to their chemical properties due to different reactive groups on the same molecular skeleton.
Estimating Vehicle Stability Region Based on Energy Function
Authors: Yan Yu-guang , Xu Hong-guo , Liu Hong-fei
Published: March 2015

In order to improve the deficiency of vehicle stability region, according to vehicle nonlinear dynamic model, method of estimating vehicle spatial stability region was proposed. With Pacejka magic formula tire model, nonlinear 3DOF vehicle model was deduced and verified though vehicle test. Detailed detecting system and data processing were introduced. In addition, stability of the vehicle system was discussed using Hurwitz criterion. By establishing energy function for vehicle system, the vehicle’s stability region in 20 m/s was estimated based on Lyapunov theorem and vehicle system characteristics. Vehicle test in the same condition shows that the calculated stability region defined by Lyapunov and system stability theorem has good effect on characterized vehicle stability and it could be a valuable reference for vehicle stability evaluation.
Development of a Gradient HPLC Method for the Simultaneous Determination of Sotalol and Sorbate in Oral Liquid Preparations Using Solid Core Stationary Phase
Authors: Matysova Ludmila , Zahalkova Oxana , Klovrzova Sylva , Sklubalova Zdenka , Solich Petr , Zahalka Lukas
Published: March 2015

A selective and sensitive gradient HPLC-UV method for quantification of sotalol hydrochloride and potassium sorbate in five types of oral liquid preparations was developed and fully validated. The separation of an active substance sotalol hydrochloride, potassium sorbate (antimicrobial agent), and other substances (for taste and smell correction, etc.) was performed using an Ascentis Express C18 (100 × 4.6 mm, particles 2.7 μm) solid core HPLC column. Linear gradient elution mode with a flow rate of 1.3 mL min−1was used, and the injection volume was 5 µL. The UV/Vis absorbance detector was set to a wavelength of 237 nm, and the column oven was conditioned at 25°C. A sodium dihydrogen phosphate dihydrate solution (pH 2.5; 17.7 mM) was used as the mobile phase buffer. The total analysis time was 4.5 min (+2.5 min for reequilibration). The method was successfully employed in a stability evaluation of the developed formulations, which are now already being used in the therapy of arrhythmias in pediatric patients; the method is also suitable for general quality control, that is, not only just for extemporaneous preparations containing the mentioned substances.
Imaging Findings and Evaluation of Metabolic Bone Disease
Authors: Patel Anish A. , Ramanathan Rohit , Kuban Joshua , Willis Marc H.
Published: March 2015

Bone is a dynamic organ of the endoskeleton, playing an important role in structural integrity, mineral reservoirs, blood production, coagulation, and immunity. Metabolic bone disease encompasses a broad spectrum of inherited and acquired disorders that disrupt the normal homeostasis of bone formation and resorption. For patients affected by these processes, radiologic imaging plays a central role in diagnosis, monitoring treatment, and risk stratification. Radiologists should be familiar with the diseases, intimately aware of the imaging findings, and possessive of multimodality expertise to wisely guide the best practice of medicine. The purpose of this paper is to review the imaging features and characteristics of the most common types of metabolic bone disease with highlights of clinically relevant information so that readers can better generate appropriate differential diagnoses and recommendations. For this review, a thorough literature search for the most up-to-date information was performed on several key types of metabolic bone disease: osteoporosis, osteomalacia, rickets, scurvy, renal osteodystrophy, hyperparathyroidism, Paget’s disease, osteogenesis imperfecta, acromegaly, and osteopetrosis. Although they all affect the bone, these diseases have both shared characteristic features that can be discerned through imaging.
Thermoelectric Transport Properties of Cu Nanoprecipitates Embedded Bi2Te2.7Se0.3
Authors: Lee Eunsil , Kim Jin Il , Choi Soon-Mok , Lim Young Soo , Seo Won-Seon , Kim Jong-Young , Lee Kyu Hyoung
Published: March 2015

We suggest a simple and scalable synthesis to prepare Cu‐Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 (Cu‐BTS) nanocomposites. By precipitating Cu nanoparticle (NP) in colloidal suspension of as‐exfoliated BTS, homogeneous mixtures of Cu NP and BTS nanosheet were readily achieved, and then the sintered nanocomposites were fabricated by spark plasma sintering technique using the mixed powder as a raw material. The precipitated Cu NPs in the BTS matrix effectively generated nanograin (BTS) and heterointerface (Cu/BTS) structures. The maximum ZT of 0.90 at 400 K, which is 15% higher compared to that of pristine BTS, was obtained in 3 vol% Cu‐BTS nanocomposite. The enhancement of ZT resulted from improved power factor by carrier filtering effect due to the Cu nanoprecipitates in the BTS matrix.
Evaluation of Salmon Adhesion on PET-Metal Interface by ATR, FT-IR, and Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Zumelzu E. , Wehrhahn M. J. , Rull F. , Pesenti H. , Muñoz O. , Ugarte R.
Published: March 2015

The material employed in this study is an ecoefficient, environmentally friendly, chromium (VI)-free (noncarcinogenic) metal polymer. The originality of the research lies in the study of the effect of new production procedures of salmon on metal packaging with multilayer polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polymer coatings. Our hypothesis states that the adhesion of postmortem salmon muscles to the PET polymer coating produces surface and structural changes that affect the functionality and limit the useful life of metal containers, compromising therefore their recycling capacity as ecomaterials. This work is focused on studying the effects of the biochemical changes of postmortem salmon on the PET coating and how muscle degradation favors adhesion to the container. The experimental design considered a series of laboratory tests of containers simulating the conditions of canned salmon, chemical and physical tests of food-contact canning to evaluate the adhesion, and characterization of changes in the multilayer PET polymer by electron microscopy, ATR, FT-IR, and Raman spectroscopy analyses. The analyses determined the effect of heat treatment of containers on the loss of freshness of canned fish and the increased adhesion to the container wall, and the limited capability of the urea treatment to remove salmon muscle from the container for recycling purposes.
Early Intervention with a Parent-Delivered Massage Protocol Directed at Tactile Abnormalities Decreases Severity of Autism and Improves Child-to-Parent Interactions: A Replication Study
Authors: Silva Louisa M. T. , Schalock Mark , Gabrielsen Kristen R. , Budden Sarojini S. , Buenrostro Martha , Horton Gretchen
Published: March 2015

Tactile abnormalities are severe and universal in preschool children with autism. They respond well to treatment with a daily massage protocol directed at tactile abnormalities (QST massage for autism). Treatment is based on a model for autism proposing that tactile impairment poses a barrier to development. Two previous randomized controlled trials evaluating five months of massage treatment reported improvement of behavior, social/communication skills, and tactile and other sensory symptoms. This is the first report from a two-year replication study evaluating the protocol in 103 preschool children with autism. Parents gave daily treatment; trained staff gave weekly treatment and parent support. Five-month outcomes replicated earlier studies and showed normalization of receptive language (18%,P=.03), autistic behavior (32%,P=.006), total sensory abnormalities (38%,P=.0000005), tactile abnormalities (49%,P=.0002), and decreased autism severity (medium to large effect size,P=.008). In addition, parents reported improved child-to-parent interactions, bonding, and decreased parenting stress (44%,P=.00008). Early childhood special education programs are tasked with addressing sensory abnormalities and engaging parents in effective home programs. Until now, they have lacked research-based methods to do so. This program fulfills the need. It is recommended to parents and ECSE programs (ages 3–5) at autism diagnosis.
A Two-Dimensional Genetic Algorithm and Its Application to Aircraft Scheduling Problem
Authors: Tsai Ming-Wen , Hong Tzung-Pei , Lin Woo-Tsong
Published: March 2015

Genetic algorithms have become increasingly important for researchers in resolving difficult problems because they can provide feasible solutions in limited time. Using genetic algorithms to solve a problem involves first defining a representation that describes the problem states. Most previous studies have adopted one-dimensional representation. Some real problems are, however, naturally suitable to two-dimensional representation. Therefore, a two-dimensional encoding representation is designed and the traditional genetic algorithm is modified to fit the representation. Particularly, appropriate two-dimensional crossover and mutation operations are proposed to generate candidate chromosomes in the next generations. A two-dimensional repairing mechanism is also developed to adjust infeasible chromosomes to feasible ones. Finally, the proposed approach is used to solve the scheduling problem of assigning aircrafts to a time table in an airline company for demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed genetic algorithm.
Axially Symmetric-dS Solution in Teleparallelf(T)Gravity Theories
Authors: Nashed Gamal G. L.
Published: March 2015

We apply a tetrad field with six unknown functions to Einstein field equations. Exact vacuum solution, which represents axially symmetric-dS spacetime, is derived. We multiply the tetrad field of the derived solution by a local Lorentz transformation which involves a generalization of the angleϕand get a new tetrad field. Using this tetrad, we get a differential equation from the scalar torsionT=TαμνSαμν. Solving this differential equation we obtain a solution to thef(T)gravity theories under certain conditions on the form off(T)and its first derivatives. Finally, we calculate the scalars of Riemann Christoffel tensor, Ricci tensor, Ricci scalar, torsion tensor, and its contraction to explain the singularities associated with this solution.
Somatostatin Receptor Based Imaging and Radionuclide Therapy
Authors: Xu Caiyun , Zhang Hong
Published: March 2015

Somatostatin (SST) receptors (SSTRs) belong to the typical 7-transmembrane domain family of G-protein-coupled receptors. Five distinct subtypes (termed SSTR1-5) have been identified, with SSTR2 showing the highest affinity for natural SST and synthetic SST analogs. Most neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) have high expression levels of SSTRs, which opens the possibility for tumor imaging and therapy with radiolabeled SST analogs. A number of tracers have been developed for the diagnosis, staging, and treatment of NETs with impressive results, which facilitates the applications of human SSTR subtype 2 (hSSTr2) reporter gene based imaging and therapy in SSTR negative or weakly positive tumors to provide a novel approach for the management of tumors. The hSSTr2 gene can act as not only a reporter gene forin vivoimaging, but also a therapeutic gene for local radionuclide therapy. Even a second therapeutic gene can be transfected into the same tumor cells together with hSSTr2 reporter gene to obtain a synergistic therapeutic effect. However, additional preclinical and especially translational and clinical researches are needed to confirm the value of hSSTr2 reporter gene based imaging and therapy in tumors.
Clarification of the Magnetocapacitance Mechanism for Fe3O4‐PDMS Nanocomposites
Authors: Guobin Chen , Hui Yang , Xiaoming Zhang , Jun Liu , Jun Tang
Published: March 2015

We mainly focused on the magnetocapacitance effect of Fe3O4‐PDMS nanocomposites. We also proposed the preparation method and measured microstructures, magnetic properties, and magnetocapacitance value of the nanocomposites. The magnetocapacitance measurement results show that the nanocomposites have magnetocapacitance property, the magnetocapacitance with magnetic field depends on the magnetic property, and the value at the same magnetic field is increasing with the volume fraction of Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The magnetocapacitance model is proposed to explain this phenomenon by analyzing the magnetic interaction between particles and the viscoelasticity of PDMS. We also calculated the theoretical capacitance value of all samples using the magnetization of nanoparticles and mechanical parameters of PDMS. From the theoretical values, it is concluded that the model we proposed can well explain the magnetocapacitance effect of Fe3O4‐PDMS nanocomposites.
Clinical Aspects of Syphilis Reinfection in HIV-Infected Patients
Authors: Courjon Johan , Hubiche Thomas , Dupin Nicolas , Grange Philippe Alain , Del Giudice Pascal
Published: March 2015

Background: The incidence of HIV-syphilis co-infection has risen since 2000, especially among men having sex with men (MSM). Syphilis reinfection can occur, but the clinical features of such events remain poorly characterized. Objective: To compare the cutaneous lesions seen with syphilis reinfections with those of first episodes in HIV-infected patients. Methods: In a cohort of HIV-infected patients, syphilis reinfection was established both clinically and biologically by evaluating changes in Venereal Disease Research Laboratory titers. Photographs and medical records were studied in order to determine the type of skin lesions and their quantification. Results: Among 533 HIV-infected patients, 42 (8%) experienced a first syphilis infection. Thirteen episodes of reinfection occurred in 12/42 (28%) patients, all MSM. In 78% of cases, reinfections were less symptomatic than first episodes. All patients presented classical syphilis lesions. Conclusions: We observed a high rate of reinfection, but with less severe skin manifestations during reinfection episodes.
Does Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin Influence the Antimyeloma Effects of Thalidomide? A Retrospective Analysis of Data from the GIMEMA, Nordic and Turkish Myeloma Study Groups
Authors: Beksac Meral , Waage Anders , Bringhen Sara , Kristinsson Sigurdur Y. , Sucak Gülsan Türköz , Gimsing Peter , Lupparelli Giulia , Fıratlı-Tuğlular Tulin , Juliusson Gunnar , Turesson Ingemar , Palumbo Antonio
Published: March 2015

Background/Aim: Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) has been shown to prolong survival among patients with solid tumors, but its role among myeloma patients is unknown. Patients: Data from the GIMEMA (Gruppo Italiano Malattie Ematologiche dellʼAdulto), Nordic and Turkish myeloma study groups comparing melphalan and prednisolone with (MPT, n: 404) or without thalidomide (MP, n: 393) are analyzed for effects of LMWH. Forty percent (159/394) of the patients on MPT and 7.4% (29/390) in the MP arm received LMWH. Results: Thalidomide improved response and progression-free survival (PFS). Regardless of thalidomide treatment, response rate was higher among those receiving LMWH vs. none vs. other anticoagulants (58.1 vs. 44.9 vs. 50.4%, p = 0.01). PFS was significantly longer (median 32 vs. 21 and 17 vs. 17 months, p = 0.004) only among international scoring system (ISS) I patients receiving MPT ± LMWH vs. MP ± LMWH. The group of MPT patients who also received LMWH had a better OS compared to those who did not [45 months, 95% confidence interval (CI) 27.7-62.3, vs. 32 months, 95% CI 26.1-37.9; p = 0.034]. When multivariate analysis was repeated in subgroups, thalidomide was no longer a significant factor (response, PFS) among those receiving LMWH. Conclusion: Addition of LMWH to MPT, in particular in patients with low ISS, suggests additive effects, but the results are limited by the retrospective design of our study.
Generation of Natural Killer Cell Memory during Viral Infection
Authors: O'Sullivan Timothy E. , Sun Joseph C.
Published: March 2015

Immunological memory is classically regarded as an attribute of antigen-specific T and B lymphocytes of the adaptive immune system. Cells of the innate immune system, including natural killer (NK) cells, have been considered short-lived cytolytic cells that can rapidly respond against pathogens in an antigen-independent manner and then die off. However, NK cells have recently been described to possess traits of adaptive immunity, such as clonal expansion after viral antigen exposure to generate long-lived memory cells. In this review, we will discuss the current evidence for viral-induced NK cell memory in both mice and humans.
Supplementation of n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids for Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized, Double-Blind, 12-Week, Placebo-Controlled Trial in Korea
Authors: Park Yongsoon , Park Yoo-Sin , Kim Seok Hyeon , Oh Dong Hoon , Park Yong-Chon
Published: March 2015

Background: Controversy over the efficacy of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in depression continues to this day. The present study investigated the hypothesis that n-3 PUFA supplementation reduces depressive symptoms in Korean patients with major depressive disorder. Methods: In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 12-week, parallel-group trial, 35 patients with Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale Korean version (CES-D-K) scores ≥25 and depression confirmed by a psychiatrist were assigned to take either 3 capsules of n-3 PUFAs (1,140 mg of EPA + 600 mg of DHA; n = 18) or placebo (olive oil + safflower oil; n = 17). Results: Supplementation with n-3 PUFAs significantly reduced Clinical Global Impression Improvement (CGI-I) scores as compared with intake of placebo using intention-to-treat analysis with last-observation-carried-forward after adjusting for energy, fat, and fish intake. However, the CES-D-K, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-17, and Clinical Global Impression Scale scores did not significantly differ between the n-3 PUFA and placebo groups. After supplementation with n-3 PUFAs, the erythrocyte levels of n-3 PUFAs were significantly increased, but n-6 PUFA levels were decreased. Conclusions: n-3 PUFAs demonstrated an advantage over placebo that did not reach clinical significance, although CGI-I score was significantly decreased in the n-3 PUFA group as compared with the placebo group.
Irreversible Loss of Vision in a Child due to Occipital Infarction after Gastroenteritis
Authors: Mansour Ahmad M. , Hasbini Dana , Younis Muhammad H. , Bhatti M. Tariq
Published: March 2015

A 2½-year-old girl developed a bilateral occipital infarct following severe gastroenteritis with bilateral vision of light perception. Evaluations for sickle cell anemia, hemolytic anemia and coagulopathies were negative. Cortical blindness is an uncommon but dramatic complication of gastroenteritis, hence the need of prompt hydration and other supportive measures to avoid irreversible visual loss or mental sequela.
Combined Intramyocardial Delivery of Human Pericytes and Cardiac Stem Cells Additively Improves the Healing of Mouse Infarcted Hearts Through Stimulation of Vascular and Muscular Repair
Authors: Avolio Elisa , Meloni Marco , Spencer Helen L. , Riu Federica , Katare Rajesh , Mangialardi Giuseppe , Oikawa Atsuhiko , Rodriguez-Arabaolaza Iker , Dang Zexu , Mitchell Kathryn , Reni Carlotta , Alvino Valeria V. , Rowlinson Jonathan , Livi Ugolini , Cesselli Daniela , Angelini Gianni , Emanueli Costanza , Beltrami Antonio P. , Madeddu Paolo
Published: March 2015

Rationale:

Optimization of cell therapy for cardiac repair may require the association of different cell populations with complementary activities.

Objective:

Compare the reparative potential of saphenous vein–derived pericytes (SVPs) with that of cardiac stem cells (CSCs) in a model of myocardial infarction, and investigate whether combined cell transplantation provides further improvements.

Methods and Results:

SVPs and CSCs were isolated from vein leftovers of coronary artery bypass graft surgery and discarded atrial specimens of transplanted hearts, respectively. Single or dual cell therapy (300 000 cells of each type per heart) was tested in infarcted SCID (severe combined immunodeficiency)-Beige mice. SVPs and CSCs alone improved cardiac contractility as assessed by echocardiography at 14 days post myocardial infarction. The effect was maintained, although attenuated at 42 days. At histological level, SVPs and CSCs similarly inhibited infarct size and interstitial fibrosis, SVPs were superior in inducing angiogenesis and CSCs in promoting cardiomyocyte proliferation and recruitment of endogenous stem cells. The combination of cells additively reduced the infarct size and promoted vascular proliferation and arteriogenesis, but did not surpass single therapies with regard to contractility indexes. SVPs and CSCs secrete similar amounts of hepatocyte growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, stem cell factor, and stromal cell–derived factor-1, whereas SVPs release higher quantities of angiopoietins and microRNA-132. Coculture of the 2 cell populations results in competitive as well as enhancing paracrine activities. In particular, the release of stromal cell–derived factor-1 was synergistically augmented along with downregulation of stromal cell–derived factor-1–degrading enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase 4.

Conclusions:

Combinatory therapy with SVPs and CSCs may complementarily help the repair of infarcted hearts.
Exposure to Parental Smoking in Childhood Is Associated With Increased Risk of Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaque in Adulthood
Authors: West Henry W. , Juonala Markus , Gall Seana L. , Kähönen Mika , Laitinen Tomi , Taittonen Leena , Viikari Jorma S.A. , Raitakari Olli T. , Magnussen Costan G.
Published: March 2015

Background—

The association between passive smoking exposure in childhood and adverse cardiovascular health in adulthood is not well understood. Using a 26-year follow-up study, we examined whether childhood exposure to passive smoking was associated with carotid atherosclerotic plaque in young adults.

Methods and Results—

Participants were from the Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study (n=2448). Information on childhood exposure to parental smoking was collected in 1980 and 1983. Carotid ultrasound data were collected in adulthood in 2001 or 2007. Childhood serum cotinine levels from 1980 were measured from frozen samples in 2014 (n=1578). The proportion of children with nondetectable cotinine levels was highest among households in which neither parent smoked (84%), was decreased in households in which 1 parent smoked (62%), and was lowest among households in which both parents smoked (43%). Regardless of adjustment for potential confounding and mediating variables, the relative risk of developing carotid plaque in adulthood increased among those children with 1 or both parents who smoked (relative risk, 1.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.0–2.8;
P
=0.04). Although children whose parents exercised good “smoking hygiene” (smoking parents whose children had nondetectable cotinine levels) had increased risk of carotid plaque compared with children with nonsmoking parents (relative risk, 1.6; 95% confidence interval, 0.6–4.0;
P
=0.34), children of smoking parents with poor smoking hygiene (smoking parents whose children had detectable serum cotinine levels) had substantially increased risk of plaque as adults (relative risk, 4.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.7–9.8;
P
=0.002).

Conclusions—

Children of parents who smoke have increased risk of developing carotid atherosclerotic plaque in adulthood. However, parents who exercise good smoking hygiene can lessen their child’s risk of developing plaque.
Acetaminophen Use and Risk of Myocardial Infarction and Stroke in a Hypertensive Cohort
Authors: Fulton Rachael L. , Walters Matthew R. , Morton Ross , Touyz Rhian M. , Dominiczak Anna F. , Morrison David S. , Padmanabhan Sandosh , Meredith Peter A. , McInnes Gordon T. , Dawson Jesse
Published: March 2015

Recent data suggest that self-reported acetaminophen use is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events and that acetaminophen causes a modest blood pressure rise. There are no randomized trials or studies using verified prescription data of this relationship. We aimed to assess the relationship between verified acetaminophen prescription data and risk of myocardial infarction or stroke in patients with hypertension. We performed a retrospective data analysis using information contained within the UK Clinical Research Practice Datalink. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios for myocardial infarction (primary end point), stroke, and any cardiovascular event (secondary end points) associated with acetaminophen use during a 10-year period. Acetaminophen exposure was a time-dependent variable. A propensity-matched design was also used to reduce potential for confounding. We included 24 496 hypertensive individuals aged ≥65 years. Of these, 10 878 were acetaminophen-exposed and 13 618 were not. There was no relationship between risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, or any cardiovascular event and acetaminophen exposure on adjusted analysis (hazard ratio, 0.98; 95% confidence interval, 0.76–1.27; hazard ratio, 1.09; 95% confidence interval, 0.86–1.38; and hazard ratio, 1.17; 95% confidence interval, 0.99–1.37; respectively). Results in the propensity-matched sample (n=4000 per group) and when men and women were analyzed separately were similar. High-frequency users (defined as receiving a prescription for >75% of months) were also not at increased risk. After allowance for potentially confounding variables, the use of acetaminophen was not associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction or stroke in a large cohort of hypertensive patients.
miR-217 Mediates the Protective Effects of the Dopamine D2 Receptor on Fibrosis in Human Renal Proximal Tubule Cells
Authors: Han Fei , Konkalmatt Prasad , Chen Jianghua , Gildea John , Felder Robin A. , Jose Pedro A. , Armando Ines
Published: March 2015

Lack or downregulation of the dopamine D2 receptor (D
2
R) increases the vulnerability to renal inflammation independent of blood pressure in mice. Common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs6276, 6277, and 1800497 in the human D
2
R gene are associated with decreased receptor expression/function and hypertension. Human renal proximal tubule cells from subjects carrying these SNPs have decreased D
2
R expression and increased expression of profibrotic factors and production of extracellular matrix proteins. We tested the hypothesis that the D
2
R mediates these effects by regulating micro-RNA expression. In cells carrying D
2
R SNPs, micro-RNAs (miRs)-217, miR-224, miR-335, and miR-1265 were downregulated, whereas miR-1290 was upregulated >4-fold compared with those carrying D
2
R wild-type alleles. However, only miR-217 was directly regulated by D
2
R expression. In cells carrying D
2
R wild-type, miR-217 inhibitor increased the expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, matrix metalloproteinase 3, fibronectin 1, and collagen 1a, whereas miR-217 mimic had the opposite effect. In cells carrying D
2
R SNPs, miR-217 mimic also decreased the expression of TGFβ1 and its targets. Wnt5a, a miR-217 target, was increased in cells carrying D
2
R SNPs and decreased by miR-217 mimic but increased by miR-217 inhibitor in both cell types. In cells carrying D
2
R wild-type, Wnt5a treatment increased TGFβ1 while silencing Ror2, a Wnt5a receptor, decreased TGFβ1 and blunted the Wnt5a-induced increase in cells carrying D
2
R wild-type. Our results show that renal proximal tubule cells from subjects carrying D
2
R SNPs resulting in D
2
R downregulation have increased TGFβ1 that is mediated by decreased regulation of the miR-217-Wnt5a-Ror2 pathway.
Increasing Trend in Admissions for Malignant Hypertension and Hypertensive Encephalopathy in the United States
Authors: Polgreen Linnea A. , Suneja Manish , Tang Fan , Carter Barry L. , Polgreen Philip M.
Published: March 2015

Malignant hypertension and hypertensive encephalopathy are life-threating manifestations of hypertension. These syndromes primarily occur in patients with a history of poorly controlled hypertension. The purpose of this study was to investigate national trends in hospital admissions for malignant hypertension, hypertensive encephalopathy, and essential hypertension. This was a retrospective cohort study that used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. We identified all hospitalizations between 2000 and 2011, during which a primary diagnosis of malignant hypertension (ICD 9 code: 401.0), hypertensive encephalopathy (ICD 9 code: 437.2), or essential hypertension (ICD 9 code: 401.9) was recorded. Time series models were estimated for malignant hypertension, hypertensive encephalopathy, essential hypertension and also for the combined series. A piecewise linear regression analyses was performed to investigate whether there were changes in the trends of these series. In addition, we also compared the characteristics of patients with these diagnoses. The estimated number of admissions for both malignant hypertension and hypertensive encephalopathy increased dramatically after 2007, whereas discharges for essential hypertension fell, and there was no change in trend for the combined series. Costs rose substantially for patients with these diagnoses after 2007, but mortality significantly fell for malignant hypertension and mortality for hypertensive encephalopathy did not change. The dramatic increase in the number of hospital admissions for hypertensive encephalopathy and malignant hypertension should have resulted in dramatic increases in morbidity, but it did not. The change is most likely related to changes in coding related to diagnostic-related groups that occurred in 2007.
Plasma Aldosterone and Left Ventricular Diastolic Function in Treatment-Naïve Patients With Hypertension
Authors: Catena Cristiana , Verheyen Nicolas , Pilz Stefan , Kraigher-Krainer Elisabeth , Tomaschitz Andreas , Sechi Leonardo A. , Pieske Burkert
Published: March 2015

Aldosterone has hypertrophic and profibrotic effects on the heart. The relationship between plasma aldosterone levels and left ventricular diastolic function in hypertension, however, is unclear. The aim of this study was to examine this relationship in treatment-naïve hypertensive patients free of comorbidities that could affect left ventricular diastolic filling properties. In 115 patients with primary hypertension who were eating a standard diet and 100 matched normotensive controls, we measured plasma aldosterone and active renin levels and performed both conventional echocardiography and tissue-Doppler imaging for assessment of left ventricular diastolic function. Left ventricular hypertrophy was found in 21% of hypertensive patients, and diastolic dysfunction was detected in 20% by conventional echocardiography and in 58% by tissue-Doppler imaging. Patients with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction at tissue-Doppler imaging were older and more frequently men, had greater body mass index, blood pressure, alcohol intake, left ventricular mass index, relative wall thickness, and lower plasma aldosterone levels than patients with preserved diastolic function. Plasma aldosterone correlated directly with left ventricular mass index in addition to age, body mass index, and systolic blood pressure. Plasma aldosterone was also directly related to
e
′ velocity at tissue-Doppler imaging, but this relationship was lost after multivariate adjustment. In conclusion, plasma aldosterone levels are associated with left ventricular hypertrophy but have no independent relationship with left ventricular diastolic properties in hypertensive patients.