bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying human microRNA–disease associations by a new diffusion-based method
Authors: Liao Bo , Ding Sumei , Chen Haowen , Li Zejun , Cai Lijun
Published: April 2015

Identifying the microRNA–disease relationship is vital for investigating the pathogenesis of various diseases. However, experimental verification of disease-related microRNAs remains considerable challenge to many researchers, particularly for the fact that numerous new microRNAs are discovered every year. As such, development of computational methods for disease-related microRNA prediction has recently gained eminent attention. In this paper, first, we construct a miRNA functional network and a disease similarity network by integrating different information sources. Then, we further introduce a new diffusion-based method (NDBM) to explore global network similarity for miRNA–disease association inference. Even though known miRNA–disease associations in the database are rare, NDBM still achieves an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 85.62% in the leave-one-out cross-validation in improving the prediction accuracy of previous methods significantly. Moreover, our method is applicable to diseases with no known related miRNAs as well as new miRNAs with unknown target diseases. Some associations who strongly predicted by our method are confirmed by public databases. These superior performances suggest that NDBM could be an effective and important tool for biomedical research.
Nonlinear electrodynamics and black holes
Authors: Kruglov S. I.
Published: April 2015

We investigate a new model of nonlinear electromagnetic field coupled with the gravitation field. The black hole solution is obtained possessing the asymptotic Reissner–Nordström solution. The electric field has the finite value at the origin and there are not singularities.
Fabrication and Conductive Performance of Antimony-Doped Tin Oxide-Coated Halloysite Nanotubes
Authors: Lun Huilin , Ouyang Jing , Tang Aidong , Yang Huaming
Published: April 2015

Antimony-doped tin oxide (ATO) was deposited on the surface of halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) to obtain conductive composite ATO/HNTs by a hydrolysis precipitation process. Structure and morphology of the samples were systematically characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetry–differential scanning calorimetry (TG–DSC), transmission electron microscope (TEM), energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The results indicated that ATO nanoparticles were successfully coated as thin layers on the surface of halloysite and the particle size was ∼7.4nm when calcined at 700°C. The ATO/HNTs composites were obtained with a resistivity of ∼430Ω⋅cm under the optimum experimental parameters. ATO layers were proved to attach to the halloysite surface via the Sn – O – Si or Sn – O – Al bonds. A corresponding coating mechanism was depicted.
Nondestructive determination of soluble solids and firmness in mix-cultivar melon using near-infrared CCD spectroscopy
Authors: Lu Jie , Qi Shuye , Liu Ran , Zhou Enyang , Li Wu , Song Shuhui , Han Donghai
Published: April 2015

Nondestructive evaluation of melon quality is in great need of comprehensive study. Soluble solids content (SSC) and firmness are the two indicators of melon internal quality that mostly affect consumer acceptance. To provide guidance for fruit classification, internal quality standards was preliminarily established through sensory test, as: Melon with SSC over 12° Brix, firmness 4–5.5 kgf · cm-2 were considered as satisfactory class sample; and SSC over 10° Brix, firmness 3.5–6.5 kgf · cm-2 as average class sample. The near infrared (NIR) nondestructive detection program was set as spectra collected from the stylar-end, Brix expressed by the average SSC of inner and outer mesocarp, each cultivar of melon was detected with its own optimum integration time, and the second derivative algorithm was used to equalize them. Using wavelength selected by genetic algorithms (GA), a robust SSC model of mix-cultivar melon was established, the root mean standard error of cross-validation (RMSECV) was 0.99 and the ratio performance deviation (RPD) nearly reached 3.0, which almost could meet the accuracy requirement of 1.5° Brix. Firmness model of mix-cultivar melon was acceptable but inferior.
Application of near infrared spectroscopy in monitoring the moisture content in freeze-drying process of human coagulation factor VIII
Authors: Wang Fei , Jiang Wei , Li Can , Zhang Hui , Nie Lei , Li Lian , Wang Pei , Zang Hengchang
Published: April 2015

As an important process analysis tool, near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has been widely used in process monitoring. In the present work, the feasibility of NIRS for monitoring the moisture content of human coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) in freeze-drying process was investigated. A partial least squares regression (PLS-R) model for moisture content determination was built with 88 samples. Different pre-processing methods were explored, and the best method found was standard normal variate (SNV) transformation combined with 1st derivation with Savitzky–Golay (SG) 15 point smoothing. Then, four different variable selection methods, including uninformative variable elimination (UVE), interval partial least squares regression (iPLS), competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS) and manual method, were compared for eliminating irrelevant variables, and iPLS was chosen as the best variable selection method. The correlation coefficient (R), correlation coefficient of calibration set (R cal ), correlation coefficient of validation set (R val ), root mean square errors of cross-validation (RMSECV) and root mean square errors of prediction (RMSEP) of PLS model were 0.9284, 0.9463, 0.8890, 0.4986% and 0.4514%, respectively. The results showed that the model for moisture content determination has a wide range, good linearity, accuracy and precision. The developed approach was demonstrated to be a potential for monitoring the moisture content of FVIII in freeze-drying process.
Penetrating Heart Injury due to Screwdriver Assault
Authors: Dieng P. A. , Diop M. S. , Ciss A. G. , Ba P. S. , Diatta S. , Gaye M. , Fall M. L. , Ndiaye A. , Ndiaye M.
Published: April 2015

Penetrating heart injuries cause wounds in the cardiac chambers. Most of them are due to gunshot or stabbing by knives. Screwdriver is an uncommon weapon. Authors report a case of stab wound by screwdriver, treated at cardiovascular center in Dakar. This is a 16-year-old boy who experienced physical aggression. He was assaulted with a screwdriver and had stab wound on the anterior wall of the chest. Physical examination showed a screwdriver penetrating the sternum bone over a right angle. He had a mild pericardial blood effusion and a right ventricle wound 5 mm in diameter with transection of the right coronary vein. The screwdriver was removed without cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and the ventricle wound repaired by direct suture of stitches reinforced with Teflon pledgets. The right coronary artery was ligated. Postoperative period was free of events. Screwdriver is uncommonly used as a weapon. It is a dangerous device because of its rigid structure and narrow tip.
Prognostic Value of Pentraxin-3 Level in Patients with STEMI and Its Relationship with Heart Failure and Markers of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Tomandlova Marie , Jarkovsky Jiri , Tomandl Josef , Kubkova Lenka , Kala Petr , Littnerova Simona , Gottwaldova Jana , Kubena Petr , Ganovska Eva , Poloczek Martin , Spinar Jindrich , Mueller Christian , Mebazaa Alexandre , Pavkova Goldbergova Monika , Parenica Jiri
Published: April 2015

Objective. Pentraxin-3 (PTX3) appears to have a cardioprotective effect through a positive influence against postreperfusion damage. This study assesses the prognostic value of PTX3 level and its relationship with clinical parameters and markers of oxidative stress and nitric oxide metabolism in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods. Plasma/serum levels of several biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress and nitrite/nitrate were assessed upon admission and 24 h after STEMI onset in patients treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Results. ROC analysis showed that plasma PTX3 at 24 h was a strong predictor of 30-day and 1-year mortality and independent predictor of combined end-point of left ventricle dysfunction or mortality in 1 year. The inflammatory response expressed by PTX3 had a significant relationship with age, heart failure, infarct size, impaired flow in the infarct-related artery, and renal function and positively correlated with neopterin, TNF-α, 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine, and nitrite/nitrate. Conclusions. Plasma PTX3 at 24 h after STEMI onset is a strong predictor of 30-day and 1-year mortality. PTX3 as a single biomarker is comparable with currently used scoring systems (TIMI or GRACE) or B-type natriuretic peptide. PTX3 is also an independent predictor of combined end-point of left ventricle dysfunction or mortality in 1 year.
Effect of Sulodexide on Urinary Biomarkers of Kidney Injury in Normoalbuminuric Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Satirapoj Bancha , Kaewput Wisit , Supasyndh Ouppatham , Ruangkanchanasetr Prajej
Published: April 2015

Glycosaminoglycans or sulodexide has shown benefits in early experimental diabetic nephropathy (DN) models, but its efficacy in patients with early stage of DN is unknown.Methods. Twenty patients were randomly assigned to the placebo group and another 20 patients were randomly assigned to receive sulodexide 100 mg/day for 14 weeks. Primary outcome was a change of urinary TGF-beta1, albuminuria, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). All patients had stable metabolic profiles for at least 90 days before randomization.Results. Urinary TGF-beta1 increased significantly in the placebo group but did not change significantly in the sulodexide group. Additionally, the mean change of urine TGF-beta1 in the placebo group was significantly higher than that in the sulodexide group (8.44±9.21versus2.17±6.96 pg/mg Cr,P=0.02). Mean changes of urinary albumin were15.05±30.09 μg/mg Cr (P=0.038) in the placebo group and13.89±32.25 μg/mg Cr (P=0.069) in the sulodexide group. No consistent patterns of side effects were observed.Conclusion. In this 14-week trial, benefits of sulodexide in preventing the increase of urinary TGF-beta1 were observed in patients with normoalbuminuric type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that sulodexide treatment may provide additional renoprotection in early stage DN. This trial is registered withTCTR20140806001.
A Compact MultiBand and Dual-Polarized Mobile Base-Station Antenna Using Optimal Array Structure
Authors: Jung Young-Bae , Eom Soon-Young
Published: March 2015

This paper introduces a multiband base-station antenna to provide multiple communications services. There is growing need for multiband base-station antennas for mobile communications to serve existing 2nd and 3rd generation systems and to provide emerging 4th generation communication service as well as WiFi. For example, cellular, PCS, and especially WCDMA service are currently widely used in Korea, and 4th generation service (WiBro and LTE), introduced in 2011, will have to operate in parallel with existing services. The proposed multiband base-station antenna can provide a single/dual/triple or more multiple services using dual-polarization (±45° linear polarizations) according to the requirements of the service provider. This antenna has a shared aperture, having several array antenna sets for multiple services (Band 1: cellular service in 0.824~0.894 GHz, Band 2: PCS, WCDMA, and WiFi in 1.920~2.170 GHz, Band 3: WiBro and WiMAX in 2.300~2.400 GHz, and Band 4: WiMAX in 5.150~5.850 GHz). This antenna can be helpful for reducing base-station operating expenses and to create a clean urban landscape by minimizing the number of base-station antennas, which are increasing rapidly.
A Model of Intelligent Fault Diagnosis of Power Equipment Based on CBR
Authors: Ma Gang , Jiang Linru , Xu Guchao , Zheng Jianyong
Published: April 2015

Nowadays the demand of power supply reliability has been strongly increased as the development within power industry grows rapidly. Nevertheless such large demand requires substantial power grid to sustain. Therefore power equipment’s running and testing data which contains vast information underpins online monitoring and fault diagnosis to finally achieve state maintenance. In this paper, an intelligent fault diagnosis model for power equipment based on case-based reasoning (IFDCBR) will be proposed. The model intends to discover the potential rules of equipment fault by data mining. The intelligent model constructs a condition case base of equipment by analyzing the following four categories of data: online recording data, history data, basic test data, and environmental data. SVM regression analysis was also applied in mining the case base so as to further establish the equipment condition fingerprint. The running data of equipment can be diagnosed by such condition fingerprint to detect whether there is a fault or not. Finally, this paper verifies the intelligent model and three-ratio method based on a set of practical data. The resulting research demonstrates that this intelligent model is more effective and accurate in fault diagnosis.
Oxidative Carbonylation of Aromatic Amines with CO Catalyzed by 1,3-Dialkylimidazole-2-selenone in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Tian Fengshou , Chen Yahong , Wang Xiaofang , Li Peng , Lu Shiwei
Published: April 2015

1,3-Dialkylimidazole-2-selenone as a novel substituted selenium heterocyclic catalyst was used to catalyze oxidative carbonylation of aromatic amines with carbon monoxide in the presence of air to symmetrical ureas in up to 97% yield in ionic liquids.
Ectoparasites Prevalence in Small Ruminants in and around Sekela, Amhara Regional State, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Seyoum Zewdu , Tadesse Tsegaye , Addisu Agerie
Published: April 2015

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and type of ectoparasites
and to identify risk factors associated with ectoparasite infestations in small ruminants
in and around Sekela, Northwest Ethiopia. Clinical examination and laboratory analysis were
made on 304 sheep and 96 goats. The collected raw data were analyzed using
χ2-test. Out of the 400 sampled animals, 182 (45.5%) were infested
with one or more ectoparasites. The prevalent ectoparasites observed were lice,
ticks, Ctenocephalides species, Melophagus ovinus, and
Demodex species. The infestation rates of ectoparasites with age and sex were
significantly varied (P<0.05) in sheep but not in goats (P>0.05). Body
condition score was not significantly associated (P>0.05) with ectoparasites infestation
in both sheep and goats. In our attempt, only two cases due to Demodex species were recorded in
sheep. In conclusion, the prevalence of ectoparasites in the present study was high and this could affect the wellbeing
and productivity of small ruminants. Therefore, to reduce ectoparasites prevalence and impact on the productivity and
health status, planning of integrated control measures with sustainable veterinary services aiming at creating
awareness about the importance and control of ectoparasites for livestock owners is required.
The Association of Soluble IGF2R and IGF2R Gene Polymorphism with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Chanprasertyothin Suwannee , Jongjaroenprasert Wallaya , Ongphiphadhanakul Boonsong
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study is to investigate the insulin-like growth factor type 2 (IGF2R) gene and circulating soluble IGF2R in relation to type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Six hundred fifty-four subjects without history of diabetes were screened for diabetes by oral glucose tolerance test. In addition, 145 subjects with known diabetes were recruited from a local diabetes clinic. Circulating IGF2R levels were measured by ELISA method; plasma glucose was measured by colorimetric method; insulin levels were determined by chemiluminescent method; IGF2R gene rs416572 was genotyped using real-time PCR. The distributions of IGF2R genotypes were 69.2% CC, 27.8% CT, and 3.0% TT. The C allele was more commonly found in diabetes subjects, with a significant difference(P<0.01). In the presence of the T allele, circulating IGF2R levels were significantly lower(P<0.05). There was no significant difference in other potential confounders including age, sex, and BMI. Only circulating IGF2R, age, and BMI were independently associated with the degree of insulin resistance, as assessed by the HOMA model. It was found that age, sex, and BMI were associated with beta cell function. In conclusion, IGF2R gene polymorphism and circulating IGF2R are associated with T2DM.
Effect of Inert and Pozzolanic Materials on Flow and Mechanical Properties of Self-Compacting Concrete
Authors: Mahoutian Mehrdad , Shekarchi Mohammad
Published: April 2015

This research investigates the fresh behaviour and mechanical properties of self-compacting concrete (SCC) containing high volume of limestone, metakaolin, silica fume, zeolite, and viscosity modifying admixture. Two fine aggregates with different fineness modulus were also utilized to evaluate the effect of sand’s gradation on the mechanical and flow properties of SCC containing inert and pozzolanic powder. Slump flow, V-funnel for fresh concrete and 5-minute-old concrete, J-ring, Orimet with and without J-ring, and L-box and U-box tests were performed on all 14 fresh concrete mixtures to examine the fresh properties of self-compacting concrete. Compressive strength of hardened specimens was measured at 7 and 35 days and tensile strength was also determined at the age of 28 days. The results show that sand grading significantly affects the fresh properties of SCC. It is also concluded that high volume of active powders including metakaolin, zeolite, and silica fume could not improve both the flow and mechanical properties of SCC at the same time. Limestone can be effectively used as filler in SCC in high volume content. A new set of limits for the L-box and U-box tests for SCC containing silica fume is also recommended as the existing criteria are not satisfactory.
Utilization of Cellulose fromLuffa cylindricaFiber as Binder in Acetaminophen Tablets
Authors: Macuja John Carlo O. , Ruedas Laurence N. , España Rebecca C. Nueva
Published: April 2015

Cellulose is an important pharmaceutical excipient. This study aimed to produce cellulose from the fiber ofLuffa cylindricaas an effective binder in the formulation of acetaminophen tablets. This study was divided into three phases, namely, (I) preparation of cellulose fromLuffa cylindrica, (II) determination of the powder properties of the LC-cellulose, and (III) production and evaluation of acetaminophen of the tablets produced using LC-cellulose as binder. The percentage yield of LC-cellulose was 61%. The values of the powder properties of LC-cellulose produced show fair and passable flow properties and are within the specifications of a powdered pharmaceutical excipient. The mean tablet hardness and disintegration time of the LC-cellulose tablets have a significant difference in the mean tablet hardness and disintegration time of the tablets without binder; thus the cellulose produced improved the suitability of acetaminophen in the dry compression process. However, the tablet properties of the tablets produced using LC-cellulose as binder do not conform to the specifications of the US pharmacopeia; thus the study of additional methods and excipients is recommended.
Oral Metformin Treatment Counteracts Adipoinsular Axis Dysfunction in Hypothalamic Obese Rats
Authors: Castrogiovanni Daniel , Ongaro Luisina , Zuburía Guillermina , Giovambattista Andrés , Spinedi Eduardo
Published: April 2015

Rats neonatally treated with monosodium L-glutamate (MSG) are deeply dysfunctional in adulthood. We explored the effect of an oral low dose of metformin treatment in male MSG rats on adipoinsular axis and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) dysfunctions, in both basal (nonfasting) and endotoxemia conditions. MSG rats, treated or not treated with metformin (30 days prior to experimentation), and control litter-mates (CTR) were studied at 90 days of age. Peripheral concentrations of glucose, lipids, and hormones were determined in basal and post-lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment conditions. Food intake and body weight (BW) were recorded and VAT mass and leptin mRNA levels were evaluated. Data indicated that MSG rats were lighter and displayed hypercorticosteronemia, hypophagia, adipoinsular axis hyperactivity, and enhanced VAT mass associated with an increased leptin gene expression. Interestingly, metformin-treated MSG rats corrected BW catch-up and counteracted VAT (mass and leptin mRNA level) and adipoinsular axis (basal and post-LPS) dysfunctions. Thus metformin treatment in MSG rats is able to correct several VAT and metabolic-endocrine dysfunctions. Our study suggests that a low-dose metformintherapy is effective to correct, at least in part, adipoinsular axis dysfunction in hypertrophic obese phenotypes, such as that of the human Cushing syndrome.
The Histone Acetyltransferase Gcn5 Regulates ncRNA-ICR1andFLO11Expression during Pseudohyphal Development inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Wang Long-Chi , Montalvo-Munoz Fernando , Tsai Yuan-Chan , Liang Chung-Yi , Chang Chun-Chuan , Lo Wan-Sheng
Published: April 2015

Filamentous growth is one of the key features of pathogenic fungi during the early infectious phase. The pseudohyphal development of yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaeshares similar characteristics with hyphae elongation in pathogenic fungi. The expression ofFLO11is essential for adhesive growth and filament formation in yeast and is governed by a multilayered transcriptional network. Here we discovered a role for the histone acetyltransferase general control nonderepressible 5 (Gcn5) in regulatingFLO11-mediated pseudohyphal growth. The expression patterns ofFLO11were distinct in haploid and diploid yeast under amino acid starvation induced by 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole (3AT). In diploids,FLO11expression was substantially induced at a very early stage of pseudohyphal development and decreased quickly, but in haploids, it was gradually induced. Furthermore, the transcription factor Gcn4 was recruited to the Sfl1-Flo8 toggle sites at theFLO11promoter under 3AT treatment. Moreover, the histone acetylase activity of Gcn5 was required forFLO11induction. Finally, Gcn5 functioned as a negative regulator of the noncoding RNAICR1, which is known to suppressFLO11expression. Gcn5 plays an important role in the regulatory network ofFLO11expression via Gcn4 by downregulatingICR1expression, which derepressesFLO11for promoting pseudohyphal development.
Damage Detection and Quantification Using Transmissibility Coherence Analysis
Authors: Zhou Yun-Lai , Figueiredo E. , Maia N. , Perera R.
Published: April 2015

A new transmissibility-based damage detection and quantification approach is proposed. Based on the operational modal analysis, the transmissibility is extracted from system responses and transmissibility coherence is defined and analyzed. Afterwards, a sensitive-damage indicator is defined in order to detect and identify the severity of damage and compared with an indicator developed by other authors. The proposed approach is validated on data from a physics-based numerical model as well as experimental data from a three-story aluminum frame structure. For both numerical simulation and experiment the results of the new indicator reveal a better performance than coherence measure proposed in Rizos et al., 2008, Rizos et al., 2002, Fassois and Sakellariou, 2007, especially when nonlinearity occurs, which might be further used in real engineering. The main contribution of this study is the construction of the relation between transmissibility coherence and frequency response function coherence and the construction of an effective indicator based on the transmissibility modal assurance criteria for damage (especially for minor nonlinearity) detection as well as quantification.
Conservative Management of Large Rectosigmoid Perforation under Peritoneal Reflection: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Akgul G. G. , Yenidogan E. , Ozsoy Z. , Okan I. , Kayaoglu H. A. , Tali S. , Sahin M.
Published: April 2015

Colonoscopy is accepted as the best method in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of colorectal diseases. As the amount of the usage of diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy rises, iatrogenic complications are more likely to be seen. The most important complications are perforations and bleeding. Whereas perforation is a complication that is seen rarely, because of the high ratio of morbidity and mortality, it should be analyzed more carefully. There is not a common view on the optimal treatment of colonoscopic perforation. Most cases require urgent surgery, and in some cases the iatrogenic perforation of colon can be managed by conservative methods. In this report, we present a rectosigmoid perforation under peritoneal reflection and conservative management of this case.
Identification of Subgingival Periodontal Pathogens and Association with the Severity of Periodontitis in Patients with Chronic Kidney Diseases: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ismail Fidan Bahtiar , Ismail Gener , Dumitriu Anca Silvia , Baston Catalin , Berbecar Vlad , Jurubita Roxana , Andronesi Andreea , Dumitriu Horia Traian , Sinescu Ioanel
Published: April 2015

Background. The aim of our study was to assess the subgingival profile of 9 periodontal pathogens, by means of real-time PCR, in a group of predialysis chronic kidney disease patients with and without periodontal disease and to identify the risk factors associated with periodontal disease in these patients.Material and Methods. This is a single centre cross-sectional cohort study performed on 70 CKD patients. Patients received a full-mouth periodontal examination and the following parameters were assessed: periodontal pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing, and plaque index; subgingival biofilm samples were collected from the deepest periodontal pocket of each quadrant and were pooled in one transporting unit. Clinical data were drawn from the medical file of the patients.Results.T. denticola(P=0.001),T. forsythia(P<0.001), andP. micros(P=0.003) are significantly associated with periodontal disease in CKD subjects but in a multivariate model only age andT. forsythiaremain independent risk factors for periodontal disease in patients with CKD.Conclusions. In our cohort, age andT. forsythiaare independently associated with periodontitis in CKD patients. Within the limits of this study, CKD was not significantly associated with a particular subgingival periodontal pathogens profile in periodontitis patients.
Survival Comparison of Patients Undergoing Secondary Aortic Repair
Authors: Yamaguchi Dean J. , Matthews Thomas C. , Mujib Marjan , Passman Marc A. , Patterson Mark A. , Combs Bart R. , Jordan William D.
Published: April 2015

Introduction. Infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair warrants lifelong surveillance. Secondary aortic intervention (SAI) outcomes may be affected by the therapeutic approach. We compared short- and long-term mortality in patients who underwent SAIs after initial aortic repair, either endovascular (EVAR) or open. Methods. Patients who underwent AAA repair between 1986 and 2010 were retrospectively identified in a vascular surgery database as well as those who underwent SAIs. All-cause mortality and Kaplan-Meier survival curves were calculated. Results. We identified 149 patients who underwent either open AAA repair or EVAR followed by open or endovascular SAI. Seventy-seven patients (51.7%) underwent initial EVAR while 72 patients (48.3%) underwent open repair. Sixty (78%) initial EVAR patients underwent secondary EVAR while 17 (22%) patients had an open SAI. Initial open repair patients were evenly distributed between EVAR and open SAIs. Compared to EVAR, patients who underwent initial open repair had longer intervals between primary aortic interventions (PAIs) and SAIs. Multivariable-adjusted all-cause mortality was significantly higher for patients who underwent initial open AAA repair followed by EVAR when compared to patients who underwent endovascular PAI and SAI. Conclusion. Long-term mortality in patients with infrarenal aortic aneurysms who require SAI may be improved by an EVAR-first algorithm.
Resolution of Internal Carotid Dissection with Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion in Pregnancy
Authors: Ulrich Nicole , Johnson Amanda , Jodry Dominique , Dola Chi , Martin-Schild Sheryl , El Khoury Ramy
Published: March 2015

Introduction. Cervical artery dissection (CAD) is a common cause of stroke in younger patients. While the incidence of stroke in pregnancy is increasing, CAD remains a rare cause of ischemic stroke in the pregnant population, with only 30 cases described in the literature, most in the postpartum period.Methods. The case of a pregnant patient at 18 weeks of gestation presenting with CAD and ischemic stroke following intercourse is discussed.Discussion. CAD results from an intimal tear in the carotid artery, allowing accumulation of blood in the vessel wall. Stroke results from embolization of thrombogenic material in the wall. Etiology includes minor trauma, connective tissue disorders, or anatomic variations of the carotid artery. Most patients present with headache and/or neck pain, while ischemic symptoms are seen in at least 50% of patients. In the pregnant population, imaging with MRI or MRA of the head and neck aids in diagnosis. Once the diagnosis is made, patients are treated with either anticoagulation or antiplatelet medications. The optimal treatment in both pregnant and nonpregnant patients has not been well-studied.Conclusion. CAD is an important diagnosis to consider in a pregnant patient with persistent headache, especially if neurological symptoms are present. Imaging should be quickly obtained so treatment can be initiated.
Proposal of a Screening MIRU-VNTR Panel for the Preliminary Genotyping ofMycobacterium bovisin Mexico
Authors: Bolado-Martínez Enrique , Benavides-Dávila Iliana , Candia-Plata Maria del Carmen , Navarro-Navarro Moisés , Avilés-Acosta Magali , Álvarez-Hernández Gerardo
Published: April 2015

Mycobacterium bovisis the major causative agent of bovine tuberculosis, one of the most relevant zoonoses in the world, and affects a wide range of wild and domesticated animals. Development of screening panels in mycobacterial genotyping, according to specific geographical regions, is strongly needed. The aim of this study is to select a panel, constituted by highly polymorphic MIRU-VNTRloci, to discriminate clinical isolates ofM. bovisin Mexico. In this study, 65 isolates ofM. bovisobtained from clinical bovine samples proceeding from different geographic regions of Mexico were identified by phenotypic and genotypic tests and subsequently genotyped by a 24-locusMIRU-VNTR panel. The most polymorphiclociwere selected to build a panel with a high discriminatory power similar to the 24-locuspanel results. A panel of seven elements (QUB 11a, MIRU 26, ETR-A, QUB 26, MIRU 16, MIRU 27, and MIRU 39) with the highest allelic diversity showed an appropriate differentiation. The selected MIRU-VNTR elements, according to the regional allelic variability, may be used in the preliminary genotyping ofMycobacterium bovisisolates in Mexico.
Progesterone Exerts a Neuromodulatory Effect on Turning Behavior of Hemiparkinsonian Male Rats: Expression of 3α-Hydroxysteroid Oxidoreductase and Allopregnanolone as Suggestive ofGABAAReceptors Involvement
Authors: Yunes Roberto , Casas Sebastián , Gaglio Eliana , Cabrera Ricardo
Published: April 2015

There is a growing amount of evidence for a neuroprotective role of progesterone and its neuroactive metabolite, allopregnanolone, in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. By using a model of hemiparkinsonism in male rats, injection of the neurotoxic 6-OHDA in left striatum, we studied progesterone’s effects on rotational behavior induced by amphetamine or apomorphine. Also, in order to find potential explanatory mechanisms, we studied expression and activity of nigrostriatal 3α-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase, the enzyme that catalyzes progesterone to its active metabolite allopregnanolone. Coherently, we tested allopregnanolone for a possible neuromodulatory effect on rotational behavior. Also, since allopregnanolone is known as aGABAAmodulator, we finally examined the action ofGABAAantagonist bicuculline. We found that progesterone, in addition to an apparent neuroprotective effect, also increased ipsilateral expression and activity of 3α-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase. It was interesting to note that ipsilateral administration of allopregnanolone reversed a clear sign of motor neurodegeneration, that is, contralateral rotational behavior. A possibleGABAAinvolvement modulated by allopregnanolone was shown by the blocking effect of bicuculline. Our results suggest that early administration of progesterone possibly activates genomic mechanisms that promote neuroprotection subchronically. This, in turn, could be partially mediated by fast, nongenomic, actions of allopregnanolone acting as an acute modulator of GABAergic transmission.
ParallelN-Body Simulation Based on the PM and P3M Methods Using Multigrid Schemes in conjunction with Generic Approximate Sparse Inverses
Authors: Kyziropoulos P. E. , Filelis-Papadopoulos C. K. , Gravvanis G. A.
Published: April 2015

During the last decades, Multigrid methods have been extensively used for solving large sparse linear systems. Considering their efficiency and the convergence behavior, Multigrid methods are used in many scientific fields as solvers or preconditioners. Herewith, we propose two hybrid parallel algorithms forN-Body simulations using the Particle Mesh method and the Particle Particle Particle Mesh method, respectively, based on the V-Cycle Multigrid method in conjunction with Generic Approximate Sparse Inverses. TheN-Body problem resides in a three-dimensional torus space, and the bodies are subject only to gravitational forces. In each time step of the above methods, a large sparse linear system is solved to compute the gravity potential at each nodal point in order to interpolate the solution to each body. Then the Velocity Verlet method is used to compute the new position and velocity from the acceleration of each respective body. Moreover, a parallel Multigrid algorithm, with a truncated approach in the levels computed in parallel, is proposed for solving large linear systems. Furthermore, parallel results are provided indicating the efficiency of the proposed MultigridN-Body scheme. Theoretical estimates for the complexity of the proposed simulation schemes are provided.
Treatment of Symptomatic Lower Pole Stones of a Kidney with Partial Nephrectomy Using Micropercutaneous Nephrolithotomy Technique
Authors: Karatag Tuna , Buldu Ibrahim , Kaynar Mehmet , Taskapu Hakan , Tekinarslan Erdem , Istanbulluoglu Mustafa Okan
Published: April 2015

We present the treatment of lower pole stones of a 62-year-old male patient with a history of open partial nephrectomy due to renal angiomyolipoma and renal stones. He was successfully treated with micropercutaneous nephrolithotomy technique under spinal anesthesia in spite of fibrotic and scar tissue due to previous open surgery. The patient was stone-free and was discharged after a 24-hour hospitalization period. There is not any published report of micropercutaneous nephrolithotomy in a partial nephrectomized kidney before. In this report, we suggest that microperc technique may be considered for challenging conditions in case of failed retrograde intrarenal surgery.
Low Baseline Interleukin-17A Levels Are Associated with Better Treatment Response at 12 Weeks to Tocilizumab Therapy in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Lee Sang Jin , Park Won , Park Sung Hwan , Shim Seung-Cheol , Baek Han Joo , Yoo Dae-Hyun , Kim Hyun Ah , Lee Soo Kon , Leee Yun Jong , Park Young Eun , Cha Hoon-Suk , Park Jin Kyun , Lee Eun Young , Lee Eun Bong , Song Yeong Wook
Published: April 2015

T helper 17-related cytokines have been implicated in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pathogenesis. The study aimed to identify cytokines associated with the treatment response of RA patients to tocilizumab (TCZ), a humanized monoclonal antibody against the interleukin- (IL-) 6 receptor. As an independent substudy of the 24-week, randomized, double-blinded CWP-TCZ301 trial of TCZ in RA patients with an inadequate response to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, serum levels of cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-alpha, IL-17A, IL-21, IL-23, IL-6, and soluble IL-6 receptor were measured. Baseline IL-17A levels were significantly lower in RA patients who achieved disease activity score 28 (DAS28) remission at 12 weeks of TCZ treatment, compared to patients not in remission. Patients were stratified into IL-17A low group and IL-17A high group. Significantly more patients in the IL-17A low group achieved remission as compared to the IL-17A high group (47.6 versus 17.4%,P=0.032). DAS28 improvement was significantly better in the IL-17A low group than in the IL-17A high group at 12 weeks(P=0.045)and 24 weeks(P=0.046)after adjustment. Other baseline cytokines were not associated with treatment response to TCZ. The data demonstrate that low baseline IL-17A levels are associated with better clinical response to TCZ treatment in RA patients.
Incidence and Risk Factors for Delirium among Mechanically Ventilated Patients in an African Intensive Care Setting: An Observational Multicenter Study
Authors: Kwizera Arthur , Nakibuuka Jane , Ssemogerere Lameck , Sendikadiwa Charles , Obua Daniel , Kizito Samuel , Tumukunde Janat , Wabule Agnes , Nakasujja Noeline
Published: April 2015

Aim. Delirium is common among mechanically ventilated patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). There are little data regarding delirium among mechanically ventilated patients in Africa. We sought to determine the burden of delirium and associated factors in Uganda.Methods. We conducted a multicenter prospective study among mechanically ventilated patients in Uganda. Eligible patients were screened daily for delirium using the confusional assessment method (CAM-ICU). Comparisons were made usingt-test, chi-squares, and Fisher’s exact test. Predictors were assessed using logistic regression. The level of statistical significance was set atP<0.05.Results. Of 160 patients, 81 (51%) had delirium. Median time to onset of delirium was 3.7 days. At bivariate analysis, history of mental illness, sedation, multiorgan dysfunction, neurosurgery, tachypnea, low mean arterial pressure, oliguria, fevers, metabolic acidosis, respiratory acidosis, anaemia, physical restraints, marital status, and endotracheal tube use were significant predictors. At multivariable analysis, having a history of mental illness, sedation, respiratory acidosis, higher PEEP, endotracheal tubes, and anaemia predicted delirium.Conclusion. The prevalence of delirium in a young African population is lower than expected considering the high mortality. A history of mental illness, anaemia, sedation, endotracheal tube use, and respiratory acidosis were factors associated with delirium.
Condition-Based Maintenance Strategy for Production Systems Generating Environmental Damage
Authors: Tlili L. , Radhoui M. , Chelbi A.
Published: April 2015

We consider production systems which generate damage to environment as they get older and degrade. The system is submitted to inspections to assess the generated environmental damage. The inspections can be periodic or nonperiodic. In case an inspection reveals that the environmental degradation level has exceeded the critical levelU, the system is considered in an advanced deterioration state and will have generated significant environmental damage. A corrective maintenance action is then performed to renew the system and clean the environment and a penalty has to be paid. In order to prevent such an undesirable situation, a lower threshold levelLis considered to trigger a preventive maintenance action to bring back the system to a state as good as new at a lower cost and without paying the penalty. Two inspection policies are considered (periodic and nonperiodic). For each one of them, a mathematical model and a numerical procedure are developed to determine simultaneously the preventive maintenance (PM) thresholdL∗and the inspection sequence which minimize the average long-run cost per time unit. Numerical calculations are performed to illustrate the proposed maintenance policies and highlight their main characteristics with respect to relevant input parameters.
Esthetic, Functional, and Everyday Life Assessment of Individuals with Cleft Lip and/or Palate
Authors: Gkantidis Nikolaos , Papamanou Despina A. , Karamolegkou Marina , Dorotheou Domna
Published: April 2015

Objectives. To evaluate the level of satisfaction of individuals with cleft lip and/or palate (CLP) and their parents concerning the esthetic and functional treatment outcomes, the impact of the cleft on everyday life, and potential associations with treatment outcome satisfaction.Subjects and Methods. The sample consisted of 33 patients (7 CP, 20 unilateral CLP, and 6 bilateral CLP; median age: 17.1, range: 9.0–33.1 years) and 30 parents, who responded to a questionnaire in an interview-guided session. All participants received their orthodontic treatment at the Department of Orthodontics in the University of Athens.Results. Patients and their parents were quite satisfied with esthetics and function. Patients with UCLP primarily were concerned about nose esthetics (BCLP about lip esthetics and CP about speech). Increased satisfaction was associated with decreased influence of the cleft in everyday life (0.35 < rho < 0.64,P< 0.05). Parents reported significant influence of the cleft on family life, while patients did not.Conclusions. Despite the limited sample size of subgroups, the main concerns of patients with different cleft types and the importance of satisfying lip, nose, and speech outcomes for an undisturbed everyday life were quite evident. Thus, the need for targeted treatment strategies is highlighted for individuals with cleft lip and/or palate.
Triplet Delivery following Unilateral Twin Salpingocyesis
Authors: Komolafe Johnson O. , Akindele Rasaq A. , Fasanu Adeniyi O. , Akinleye Callistus A. , Akinbile Taiwo O. , Komolafe Monisayo O. , Oguntunde Muyiwa O.
Published: April 2015

We present the case of a 36-year-old woman with primary infertility of six-year duration who had IVF/ICSI on account of male factor infertility. Transvaginal scanning done on the 30th day following embryo transfer revealed an empty uterine cavity with two gestational sacs containing active fetal echoes in the right adnexum. Patient reluctantly had right salpingectomy via open laparatomy. The patient had repeat embryo transfer eleven months afterwards that culminated in the delivery of living twins with a fetal papyraceous.
Functional Roles of Calreticulin in Cancer Biology
Authors: Lu Yi-Chien , Weng Wen-Chin , Lee Hsinyu
Published: April 2015

Calreticulin is a highly conserved endoplasmic reticulum chaperone protein which participates in various cellular processes. It was first identified as a Ca2+-binding protein in 1974. Accumulated evidences indicate that calreticulin has great impacts for the development of different cancers and the effect of calreticulin on tumor formation and progression may depend on cell types and clinical stages. Cell surface calreticulin is considered as an “eat-me” signal and promotes phagocytic uptake of cancer cells by immune system. Moreover, several reports reveal that manipulation of calreticulin levels profoundly affects cancer cell proliferation and angiogenesis as well as differentiation. In addition to immunogenicity and tumorigenesis, interactions between calreticulin and integrins have been described during cell adhesion, which is an essential process for cancer metastasis. Integrins are heterodimeric transmembrane receptors which connect extracellular matrix and intracellular cytoskeleton and trigger inside-out or outside-in signaling transduction. More and more evidences reveal that proteins binding to integrins might affect integrin-cytoskeleton interaction and therefore influence ability of cell adhesion. Here, we reviewed the biological roles of calreticulin and summarized the potential mechanisms of calreticulin in regulating mRNA stability and therefore contributed to cancer metastasis.
Impact of Addition of FGDB as a Soil Amendment on Physical and Chemical Properties of an Alkali Soil and Crop Yield of Maize in Northern China Coastal Plain
Authors: Yu H.-L. , Gu W. , Tao J. , Huang J.-Y. , Lin H.-S.
Published: April 2015

To evaluate the effect of Flue gas desulfurization byproduct( FGDB )as a soil amendment on growth and yield of maize (Zea mays) and to determine the impact of FGDB additions on soil fertility characteristics in alkaline clayey soils, a 2-year field experiment was conducted in Huanghua, in Northern China Coastal Plain. The experiment included five treatments in which the soil was amended with FGDB at 15 cm depth at the rates of 0 t·hm−2, 4.50 t·hm−2, 9.00 t·hm−2, 13.5 t·hm−2, and 18.00 t·hm−2, respectively, before maize was planted. The values of soil pH, exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP), and bulk density (BD) of the soil decreased; however, values of electrical conductivity (EC), water holding capacity (WHC), and plant nutrients increased with FGDB application in the soil. Crop plants grow more readily in FGDB amended soils because of improved soil properties. The best ameliorative effect was obtained at the rate of 13.5 t·hm−2. The germination percentage, plant height, and crop yield successively increased in both years. The results indicated FGDB was an effective soil amendment for improving the physicochemical properties and nutrient balance, and enhancing crop germination, growth, and yield, particularly when applied at a suitable application rate.
Chaperonin-Containing t-Complex Protein-1 Subunitβas a Possible Biomarker for the Phase of Glomerular Hyperfiltration of Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Wu Chung-Ze , Chang Li-Chien , Lin Yuh-Feng , Hung Yi-Jen , Pei Dee , Chen Jin-Shuen
Published: April 2015

In cell model, we discovered the association between chaperonin-containing t-complex polypeptide 1 subunitβ(TCP-1β) and early diabetic nephropathy (DN). In this study, we further explored the relationships between TCP-1βand type 2 diabetic mellitus (DM). To mimic the clinical hyperfiltration state, a type 2 DM mice model was established by feeding a high-fat diet in combination with treatment of streptozotocin and nicotinamide. Blood and urine were collected to determine creatinine clearance (Ccr), and kidney tissues were harvested for evaluation of TCP-1βexpression by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. Meanwhile, clinical subjects of healthy controls and type 2 DM were recruited to strengthen the evidence with urine TCP-1β. Results showed thatCcrand the expression of TCP-1βin kidney were significantly higher one week after hyperglycemia development, suggesting that the hyperfiltration state was successfully established in the mice model. TCP-1βwas expressed predominantly on renal tubules. By using the estimated glomerular filtration rate to index progression in clinical investigation, urine TCP-1βlevel was associated with the hyperfiltration phase in type 2 DM patients. Conclusively, we confirmed that TCP-1βis a possible biomarker for early nephropathy of type 2 DM, but further mechanistic study to elucidate its cause and pathway is needed.