bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial Activities and Time‐Kill Kinetics of Extracts of Selected Ghanaian Mushrooms
Authors: Appiah Theresa , Boakye Yaw Duah , Agyare Christian
Published: October 2017

The rapid rise of antimicrobial resistance is a worldwide problem. This has necessitated the need to search for new antimicrobial agents. Mushrooms are rich sources of potential antimicrobial agents. This study investigated the antimicrobial properties of methanol extracts of Trametes gibbosa, Trametes elegans, Schizophyllum commune, and Volvariella volvacea. Agar well diffusion, broth microdilution, and time‐kill kinetic assays were used to determine the antimicrobial activity of the extracts against selected test organisms. Preliminary mycochemical screening revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, triterpenoids, anthraquinones, and alkaloids in the extracts. Methanol extracts of T. gibbosa, T. elegans, S. commune, and V. volvacea showed mean zone of growth inhibition of 10.00 ± 0.0 to 21.50 ± 0.84, 10.00 ± 0.0 to 22.00 ± 1.10, 9.00 ± 0.63 to 21.83 ± 1.17, and 12.00 ± 0.0 to 21.17 ± 1.00 mm, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration of methanol extracts of T. gibbosa, T. elegans, S. commune, and V. volvacea ranged from 4.0 to 20, 6.0 to 30.0, 8.0 to 10.0, and 6.0 to 20.0 mg/mL, respectively. Time‐kill kinetics studies showed that the extracts possess bacteriostatic action. Methanol extracts of T. gibbosa, T. elegans, S. commune, and V. volvacea exhibited antimicrobial activity and may contain bioactive compounds which may serve as potential antibacterial and antifungal agents.
A GRASP‐Tabu Heuristic Approach to Territory Design for Pickup and Delivery Operations for Large‐Scale Instances
Authors: González-Ramírez Rosa G. , Smith Neale R. , Askin Ronald G. , Camacho-Vallejo José-Fernando , González-Velarde Jose Luis
Published: October 2017

We address a logistics districting problem faced by a parcel company whose operations consist of picking up and delivering packages over a service region. The districting process aims to find a partition of the service region into delivery and collection zones that may be served by a single vehicle that departs from a central depot. Criteria to be optimized are to balance workload content among the districts and to create districts of compact shape. A solution approach based on a hybrid procedure that combines elements of GRASP and Tabu Search (TS) is proposed to solve large‐scale instances. Numerical experimentation is performed considering different instance sizes and types. Results show that the proposed solution approach is able to solve large‐scale instances in reasonable computational times with good quality of the solutions obtained. To determine the quality of the solutions, results are compared with CPLEX solutions and with the current real solution to highlight the benefits of the proposed approach. Conclusions and recommendations for further research are provided.
Solving Nonlinear Fourth-Order Boundary Value Problems Using a Numerical Approach: (m+1)th-Step Block Method
Authors: Adeyeye Oluwaseun , Omar Zurni
Published: October 2017

Nonlinear boundary value problems (BVPs) are more tedious to solve than their linear counterparts. This is observed in the extra computation required when determining the missing conditions in transforming BVPs to initial value problems. Although a number of numerical approaches are already existent in literature to solve nonlinear BVPs, this article presents a new block method with improved accuracy to solve nonlinear BVPs. A m+1th-step block method is developed using a modified Taylor series approach to directly solve fourth-order nonlinear boundary value problems (BVPs) where m is the order of the differential equation under consideration. The schemes obtained were combined to simultaneously produce solution to the fourth-order nonlinear BVPs at m+1 points iteratively. The derived block method showed improved accuracy in comparison to previously existing authors when solving the same problems. In addition, the suitability of the m+1th-step block method was displayed in the solution for magnetohydrodynamic squeezing flow in porous medium.
NLRP1 Overexpression Is Correlated with the Tumorigenesis and Proliferation of Human Breast Tumor
Authors: Wei Yuxian , Huang Hongyan , Qiu Zhu , Li Hongzhong , Tan Jinxiang , Ren Guosheng , Wang Xiaoyi
Published: October 2017

Recent studies suggest that nucleotide-binding domain leucine-rich repeat protein 1 (NLRP1) is a pivotal factor in the inflammatory process. However, the role of NLRP1 in breast cancer pathogenesis remains unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the expression and function of NLRP1 in breast cancer. We found that NLRP1 was widely expressed in 83% (60/72) of primary breast cancer tissue. NLRP1 expression level was higher in primary breast cancer tissue than in adjacent noncancerous tissue (p<0.001) and NLRP1 expression was associated with lymph node metastasis (p=0.003), TNM stage (p=0.003), and Ki-67 levels (p<0.001). Overexpression of NLRP1 in the breast cancer cell line MCF-7 promotes proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumorigenicity in nude mice. Restoration of NLRP1 expression resulted in the EMT occurrence that downregulation of epithelial marker E-cadherin and upregulation mesenchymal marker vimentin, C-myc, MMP-9, and snail. In summary, NLRP1 promotes cell line MCF-7 the proliferation, migration, and invasion through inducing EMT.
Evaluating Swine Injection Technologies as a Workplace Musculoskeletal Injury Intervention: A Study Protocol
Authors: Trask Catherine , Bath Brenna , Milosavljevic Stephan , Kociolek Aaron M. , Predicala Bernardo , Penz Erika , Adebayo Olugbenga , Whittington Lee
Published: October 2017

Intensification of modern swine production has led to many new technologies, including needleless injectors. Although needleless injectors may increase productivity (by reducing injection time) and reduce needlestick injuries, the effect on risk for musculoskeletal disorders is not clear. This project will compare conventional needles with needleless injectors in terms of cost, productivity, injury rates, biomechanical exposures, and worker preference. Muscle activity (EMG) and hand/wrist posture will be measured on swine workers performing injection tasks with both injection methods. Video recordings during the exposure assessments will compare the duration and productivity for each injection method using time-and-motion methods. Injury claim data from up to 60 pig barns will be analyzed for needlestick and musculoskeletal injuries before/after needleless injector adoption. Workers and managers will be asked about what they like and dislike about each method and what helps and hinders successful implementation. The information above will be input into a cost-benefit model to determine the incremental effects of needleless injectors in terms of occupational health, worker preference, and the financial “bottom line” of the farm. Findings will be relevant to the swine industry and are intended to be transferable to other new technologies in animal production.
Scorpion Venom Active Polypeptide May Be a New External Drug of Diabetic Ulcer
Authors: Wan Ting , Li Luocheng , Zhu Zhanyong , Liu Siyang , Zhao Yueqiang , Yu Mosheng
Published: October 2017

Background. The epidermal growth factor (EGF) is recognized medicine of therapy in ulcer. However, its efficacy has been challenged. We compared scorpion venom active polypeptide and EGF of therapeutic effects in diabetic ulcer. Methods. The scorpion venom active polypeptide is made into gel. Fourteen diabetic SD rats were randomly divided into scorpion peptide gel group (SPG group) and EGF group. Before treatment, the rat model of diabetic ulcer was created. The levels of IL‐1, IL‐6, IL‐8, and TNF‐α in the wound tissue were measured at different time points during the treatment, secretions of wound were collected for bacterial culture, and the wound healing was recorded. Results. Wound healing was faster in SPG group compared to EGF group (3 weeks versus 5 weeks, t‐test, p = 0.032). The levels of IL‐1, IL‐6, IL‐8, and TNF‐α were not statistically different when the wounds were formed but showed significant differences from the 2nd to the 5th week between two groups. The infection rate was higher in the EGF group (42.86% versus 0, Chi‐square test, p = 0.025). Conclusions. Scorpion venom active polypeptide shortens wound healing with a stronger anti‐inflammation and antibacterial effect and may be a new and effective topical drug for the treatment of diabetic ulcers.
Survival of Five Strains of Shiga ToxigenicEscherichia coliin a Sausage Fermentation Model and Subsequent Sensitivity to Stress from Gastric Acid and Intestinal Fluid
Authors: Rode Tone Mari , McLeod Anette , Måge Ingrid , Heir Even , Axelsson Lars , Holck Askild L.
Published: October 2017

The ability of foodborne pathogens to exhibit adaptive responses to stressful conditions in foods may enhance their survival when passing through the gastrointestinal system. We aimed to determine whetherEscherichia colisurviving stresses encountered during a model dry-fermented sausage (DFS) production process exhibit enhanced tolerance and survival in anin vitrogastrointestinal model. Salami sausage batters spiked with fiveE. coliisolates, including enterohaemorrhagicE. colistrains isolated from different DFS outbreaks, were fermented in a model DFS process (20°C, 21 days). Control batters spiked with the same strains were stored at 4°C for the same period. Samples from matured model sausages and controls were thereafter exposed to anin vitrodigestion challenge. Gastric exposure (pH 3) resulted in considerably reduced survival of theE. colistrains that had undergone the model DFS process. This reduction continued after entering intestinal challenge (pH 8), but growth resumed after 120 min. When subjected to gastric challenge for 120 min,E. colithat had undergone the DFS process showed about2.3 log10⁡​lower survival compared with those kept in sausage batter at 4°C. Our results indicated thatE. colistrains surviving a model DFS process exhibited reduced tolerance to subsequent gastric challenge at low pH.
Advances of Stem Cell Therapeutics in Cutaneous Wound Healing and Regeneration
Authors: Kanji Suman , Das Hiranmoy
Published: October 2017

Cutaneous wound healing is a complex multiple phase process, which overlaps each other, where several growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and various cells interact in a well-orchestrated manner. However, an imbalance in any of these phases and factors may lead to disruption in harmony of normal wound healing process, resulting in transformation towards chronic nonhealing wounds and abnormal scar formation. Although various therapeutic interventions are available to treat chronic wounds, current wound-care has met with limited success. Progenitor stem cells possess potential therapeutic ability to overcome limitations of the present treatments as it offers accelerated wound repair with tissue regeneration. A substantial number of stem cell therapies for cutaneous wounds are currently under development as a result of encouraging preliminary findings in both preclinical and clinical studies. However, the mechanisms by which these stem cells contribute to the healing process have yet to be elucidated. In this review, we emphasize on the major treatment modalities currently available for the treatment of the wound, role of various interstitial stem cells and exogenous adult stem cells in cutaneous wound healing, and possible mechanisms involved in the healing process.
The Hierarchical Iterative Identification Algorithm for Multi-Input-Output-Error Systems with Autoregressive Noise
Authors: Ding Jiling
Published: October 2017

This paper considers the identification problem of multi-input-output-error autoregressive systems. A hierarchical gradient based iterative (H-GI) algorithm and a hierarchical least squares based iterative (H-LSI) algorithm are presented by using the hierarchical identification principle. A gradient based iterative (GI) algorithm and a least squares based iterative (LSI) algorithm are presented for comparison. The simulation results indicate that the H-LSI algorithm can obtain more accurate parameter estimates than the LSI algorithm, and the H-GI algorithm converges faster than the GI algorithm.
Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy: Why Should Cardiologists Care about That?
Authors: Bissinger Andrzej
Published: October 2017

Background. Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a frequent but underdiagnosed complication of diabetes mellitus. It has a strong influence on various cardiac disorders including myocardial ischemia and infarction, hypertension, orthostatic hypotonia, heart failure, and arrhythmias. CAN can lead to severe morbidity and mortality and increase the risk of sudden cardiac death. Methods. This review article summarizes the latest evidence regarding the epidemiology, pathogenesis, influence on the cardiovascular system, and diagnostic methods for CAN. The methodology of this review involved analyzing available data from recent papers relevant to the topic of diabetic autonomic neuropathy and cardiac disorders. Conclusions. The early diagnosis of CAN can improve the prognosis and reduce adverse cardiac events. Methods based on heart rate variability enable the diagnosis of CAN even at a preclinical stage. These methods are simple and widely available for use in everyday clinical practice. According to the recently published Toronto Consensus Panel on Diabetic Neuropathy, all diabetic patients should be screened for CAN. Because diabetes mellitus often coexists with heart diseases and the most common methods used for diagnosis of CAN are based on ECG, not only diabetologists but also cardiologists should be responsible for diagnosis of CAN.
The Evolutionary Properties on Solitary Solutions of Nonlinear Evolution Equations
Authors: Chen Wenxia , Ding Danping , Deng Xiaoyan , Xu Gang
Published: October 2017

The evolution process of four class soliton solutions is investigated by basic calculus theory. For any given x, we describe the special curvature evolution following time t for the curve of soliton solution and also study the fluctuation of solution curve.
Energy Evolution Characteristics and Distribution Laws of Rock Materials under Triaxial Cyclic Loading and Unloading Compression
Authors: Zhang Mingwei , Meng Qingbin , Liu Shengdong
Published: October 2017

To explore the influence of confining pressure on the energy evolution characteristics of loaded rocks, triaxial cyclic loading-unloading experiments on sandstones were carried out under 6 kinds of confining pressures using the axial loading and circumferential deforming control modes. Total energy density, elastic energy density, and dissipated energy density absorbed by rock specimens under different confining pressures were obtained. The confining pressure effect of the evolution process and distribution law in energy accumulation and dissipation was analyzed. Energy conversion mechanism from rock deformation to failure was revealed, and energy conversion equations in different stress-strain stages were established. The method of representing the rock energy accumulation, dissipation, and release behaviors by energy storage limit density, maximum dissipated energy density, and residual elastic energy density was established. The rock showed that, with the increase of confining pressure, the characteristic energy density of rock increased in the power exponent form, and the energy storage limit density increased faster than the maximum dissipated energy density. The greater the confining pressure was, the greater the proportion of elastic energy before peak was. It is indicated that the confining pressure increased the energy inputting intensity, improved the energy accumulating efficiency, and inhibited the energy releasing degree.
Fabrication and In Vitro Study of Tissue-Engineered Cartilage Scaffold Derived from Wharton’s Jelly Extracellular Matrix
Authors: Xiao Tongguang , Guo Weimin , Chen Mingxue , Hao Chunxiang , Gao Shuang , Huang Jingxiang , Yuan Zhiguo , Zhang Yu , Wang Mingjie , Li Penghao , Peng Jiang , Wang Aiyuan , Wang Yu , Sui Xiang , Zhang Li , Xu Wenjing , Lu Shibi , Yin Heyong , Yang Jianhua , Liu Shuyun , Guo Quanyi
Published: October 2017

The scaffold is a key element in cartilage tissue engineering. The components of Wharton’s jelly are similar to those of articular cartilage and it also contains some chondrogenic growth factors, such as insulin-like growth factor I and transforming growth factor-β. We fabricated a tissue-engineered cartilage scaffold derived from Wharton’s jelly extracellular matrix (WJECM) and compared it with a scaffold derived from articular cartilage ECM (ACECM) using freeze-drying. The results demonstrated that both WJECM and ACECM scaffolds possessed favorable pore sizes and porosities; moreover, they showed good water uptake ratios and compressive moduli. Histological staining confirmed that the WJECM and ACECM scaffolds contained similar ECM. Moreover, both scaffolds showed good cellular adherence, bioactivity, and biocompatibility. MTT and DNA content assessments confirmed that the ACECM scaffold tended to be more beneficial for improving cell proliferation than the WJECM scaffold. However, RT-qPCR results demonstrated that the WJECM scaffold was more favorable to enhance cellular chondrogenesis than the ACECM scaffold, showing more collagen II and aggrecan mRNA expression. These results were confirmed indirectly by glycosaminoglycan and collagen content assessments and partially confirmed by histology and immunofluorescent staining. In conclusion, these results suggest that a WJECM scaffold may be favorable for future cartilage tissue engineering.
Experimental Investigation of the Effects of Concrete Alkalinity on Tensile Properties of Preheated Structural GFRP Rebar
Authors: Roh Hwasung , Park Cheolwoo , Moon Do Young
Published: October 2017

The combined effects of preexposure to high temperature and alkalinity on the tensile performance of structural GFRP reinforcing bars are experimentally investigated. A total of 105 GFRP bar specimens are preexposed to high temperature between 120°C and 200°C and then immersed into pH of 12.6 alkaline solution for 100, 300, and 660 days. From the test results, the elastic modulus obtained at 300 immersion days is almost the same as those of 660 immersion days. For all alkali immersion days considered in the test, the preheated specimens provide slightly lower elastic modulus than the unpreheated specimens, showing only 8% maximum difference. The tensile strength decreases for all testing cases as the increase of the alkaline immersing time, regardless of the prehearing levels. The tensile strength of the preheated specimens is about 90% of the unpreheated specimen for 300 alkali immersion days. However, after 300 alkali immersion days the tensile strengths are almost identical to each other. Such results indicate that the tensile strength and elastic modulus of the structural GFRP reinforcing bars are closely related to alkali immersion days, not much related to the preheating levels. The specimens show a typical tensile failure around the preheated location.
Energy Efficient Hierarchical Clustering Approaches in Wireless Sensor Networks: A Survey
Authors: Jan Bilal , Farman Haleem , Javed Huma , Montrucchio Bartolomeo , Khan Murad , Ali Shaukat
Published: October 2017

Wireless sensor networks (WSN) are one of the significant technologies due to their diverse applications such as health care monitoring, smart phones, military, disaster management, and other surveillance systems. Sensor nodes are usually deployed in large number that work independently in unattended harsh environments. Due to constraint resources, typically the scarce battery power, these wireless nodes are grouped into clusters for energy efficient communication. In clustering hierarchical schemes have achieved great interest for minimizing energy consumption. Hierarchical schemes are generally categorized as cluster-based and grid-based approaches. In cluster-based approaches, nodes are grouped into clusters, where a resourceful sensor node is nominated as a cluster head (CH) while in grid-based approach the network is divided into confined virtual grids usually performed by the base station. This paper highlights and discusses the design challenges for cluster-based schemes, the important cluster formation parameters, and classification of hierarchical clustering protocols. Moreover, existing cluster-based and grid-based techniques are evaluated by considering certain parameters to help users in selecting appropriate technique. Furthermore, a detailed summary of these protocols is presented with their advantages, disadvantages, and applicability in particular cases.
Effect of Sheng‐Jiang Powder on Obesity‐Induced Multiple Organ Injuries in Rats
Authors: Li Juan , Zhang Yu-mei , Li Jun-yi , Zhu Lv , Kang Hong-xin , Ren Hong-yu , Chen Huan , Yuan Ling , Miao Yi-fan , Wan Mei-hua , Tang Wen-fu
Published: October 2017

Background and Aims. Obesity has become the main public health issue nowadays with poor control and has been associated with increased risk of multiorgan disease, but the specific mechanism and effective medication are still to be addressed. Sheng‐jiang powder (SJP) showed great potential in preventing obesity in Chinese researches but has no trace in English reports. This study was designed to investigate the effect of SJP on obesity and obesity‐mediated multiorgan injuries. Methods. Rats were randomized into normal group (NG), obese group (OG), and SJP treatment group (SG). Obesity was induced by high‐fat diet feeding. Rats were gavaged with SJP/normal saline daily from the third week and all rats were sacrificed after 12 weeks’ feeding. Tissues were obtained for cytokines tests. Results. Firstly, high‐fat diet feeding led to significant obesity. Compared to NG, the level of SOD in the liver, spleen, lung, and kidney was much lower in OG (p < 0.05), while the pathological scores of pancreas, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney were much higher. SJP significantly increased SOD level in the liver, spleen, and lung and reduced the pathological scores of pancreas, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney correspondingly (p < 0.05). Conclusions. SJP ameliorates inflammatory response and mitigates obesity‐induced multiple organ injuries.
Direct and Indirect Effects of Serum Uric Acid on Blood Sugar Levels in Patients with Prediabetes: A Mediation Analysis
Authors: Anothaisintawee Thunyarat , Lertrattananon Dumrongrat , Thamakaison Sangsulee , Reutrakul Sirimon , Ongphiphadhanakul Boonsong , Thakkinstian Ammarin
Published: October 2017

Purpose. To estimate both direct and indirect effects (through obesity) of serum uric acid (SUA) on blood sugar in prediabetes patients.Methods. Prediabetes patients who came to the outpatient clinic of the Department of Family Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, were included in this cross-sectional study. Mediation analysis was applied to determine direct and indirect effects of SUA on glycemic parameters (fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and HbA1c) through waist circumference (WC). A mediation effect was estimated using the product-of-coefficient method with a bootstrap analysis of 1000 replications.Results. 1043 patients were eligible for this study. Every 1 mg/dl increase in SUA was associated with an increase in WC and then was significantly associated with an increase in FPG by 0.082 mg/dl (95% CI: 0.010, 0.154). SUA was directly associated with FPG with a coefficient of 0.413 (95% CI: 0.049, 0.776). For HbA1c, every one mg/dl increase in SUA was associated with an increase in HbA1c level through WC by 0.006 (95% CI: 0.003, 0.010). However, SUA was not directly associated with HbA1c.Conclusions. We found that an increase in SUA was directly and indirectly associated with increased FPG but the effect of SUA on HbA1c was shown when it was mediated through WC.
What Healthcare Workers Should Know about Environmental Bacterial Contamination in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Russotto Vincenzo , Cortegiani Andrea , Fasciana Teresa , Iozzo Pasquale , Raineri Santi Maurizio , Gregoretti Cesare , Giammanco Anna , Giarratano Antonino
Published: October 2017

Intensive care unit- (ICU-) acquired infections are a major health problem worldwide. Inanimate surfaces and equipment contamination may play a role in cross-transmission of pathogens and subsequent patient colonization or infection. Bacteria contaminate inanimate surfaces and equipment of the patient zone and healthcare area, generating a reservoir of potential pathogens, including multidrug resistant species. Traditional terminal cleaning methods have limitations. Indeed patients who receive a bed from prior patient carrying bacteria are exposed to an increased risk (odds ratio 2.13, 95% confidence intervals 1.62–2.81) of being colonized and potentially infected by the same bacterial species of the previous patient. Biofilm formation, even on dry surfaces, may play a role in reducing the efficacy of terminal cleaning procedures since it enables bacteria to survive in the environment for a long period and provides increased resistance to commonly used disinfectants. No-touch methods (e.g., UV-light, hydrogen peroxide vapour) are under investigation and further studies with patient-centred outcomes are needed, before considering them the standard of terminal cleaning in ICUs. Healthcare workers should be aware of the role of environmental contamination in the ICU and consider it in the broader perspective of infection control measures and stewardship initiatives.
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Crude Venom Isolated from Parasitoid Wasp, Bracon hebetor Say
Authors: Saba Evelyn , Shafeeq Tahir , Irfan Muhammad , Lee Yuan Yee , Kwon Hyuk-Woo , Seo Myung Gi , Park Sang-Joon , Lee Kyeong-Yeoll , Rhee Man Hee
Published: October 2017

Pest control in the agricultural fields, a major concern globally, is currently achieved through chemical or biological methods. Chemical methods, which leave toxic residue in the produce, are less preferred than biological methods. Venoms injected by stings of various wasps that kill the pest is considered as the examples of the biological method. Although several studies have investigated the biological control of pests through these venoms, very few studies have reported the effects of these venoms on mammalian cells. Bracon hebetor, an ectoparasitoid of the order Hymenoptera, is having a paramount importance in parasitizing various lepidopterous larvae including Plodia interpunctella also called as Indianmeal moth (IMM). Since it is biologically controlled by B. hebetor venom, therefore in our study, herein for the first time, we report the anti-inflammatory activities of the venom from B. hebetor (BHV). We developed a septic shock mice model for in vivo anti-inflammatory studies and RAW 264.7 cells for in vitro studies. Our results clearly demonstrate that BHV can dose dependently abrogate the nitric oxide (NO) production and suppress the levels of proinflammatory mediators and cytokines without posing any cytotoxicity via the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways.
Resveratrol Prevents ROS‐Induced Apoptosis in High Glucose‐Treated Retinal Capillary Endothelial Cells via the Activation of AMPK/Sirt1/PGC‐1α Pathway
Authors: Li Jun , Yu Songping , Ying Jia , Shi Tianyan , Wang Peipei
Published: October 2017

Resveratrol (RSV) is used as a protective therapy against diabetic retinopathy. However, the mechanism(s) underlying this protective effect has not been fully elucidated. Bovine retinal capillary endothelial cells (BRECs), an in vitro model, were used to investigate the mechanism of RSV. Our results showed that high glucose induced significant cellular apoptosis in BRECs, which was accompanied by increased intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cleaved caspase‐3. The glucose‐induced apoptosis and ROS elevation were both inhibited by RSV. High glucose was found to decrease the levels of phosphorylated AMP‐activated protein kinase (p‐AMPK), which was accompanied by increased levels of Sirt1 and PGC‐1α. These changes were reversed by RSV. We also demonstrated that AMPK regulates the modulations of Sirt1 and PGC‐1α using specific inhibitors of AMPK and Sirt1 and small interfering RNAs of PGC‐1α. In summary, the current study demonstrates that RSV is effective against high glucose‐induced cellular apoptosis and its action is exerted via the inhibition of ROS/AMPK/Sirt1/PGC‐1α pathway.
Human Gut Microbiota Associated with Obesity in Chinese Children and Adolescents
Authors: Hou Ya-Ping , He Qing-Qing , Ouyang Hai-Mei , Peng Hai-Shan , Wang Qun , Li Jie , Lv Xiao-Fei , Zheng Yi-Nan , Li Shao-Chuan , Liu Hai-Liang , Yin Ai-Hua
Published: October 2017

Objective. To investigate the gut microbiota differences of obese children compared with the control healthy cohort to result in further understanding of the mechanism of obesity development. Methods. We evaluated the 16S rRNA gene, the enterotypes, and quantity of the gut microbiota among obese children and the control cohort and learned the differences of the gut microbiota during the process of weight reduction in obese children. Results. In the present study, we learned that the gut microbiota composition was significantly different between obese children and the healthy cohort. Next we found that functional changes, including the phosphotransferase system, ATP-binding cassette transporters, flagellar assembly, and bacterial chemotaxis were overrepresented, while glycan biosynthesis and metabolism were underrepresented in case samples. Moreover, we learned that the amount of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus increased among the obese children during the process of weight reduction. Conclusion. Our results might enrich the research between gut microbiota and obesity and further provide a clinical basis for therapy for obesity. We recommend that Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus might be used as indicators of healthy conditions among obese children, as well as a kind of prebiotic and probiotic supplement in the diet to be an auxiliary treatment for obesity.
Classical Solution for Ghost D-Branes in String Field Theory
Authors: Zeze Syoji
Published: October 2017

Ghost D-branes have been proposed as objects that cancel the effects of D-branes. We construct a classical solution which represents an arbitrary number of D-branes and ghost D-branes in the context of open string field theory. Cancellation of BRST cohomology between D-branes and ghost D-branes is shown.
Linked Registries: Connecting Rare Diseases Patient Registries through a Semantic Web Layer
Authors: Sernadela Pedro , González-Castro Lorena , Carta Claudio , van der Horst Eelke , Lopes Pedro , Kaliyaperumal Rajaram , Thompson Mark , Thompson Rachel , Queralt-Rosinach Núria , Lopez Estrella , Wood Libby , Robertson Agata , Lamanna Claudia , Gilling Mette , Orth Michael , Merino-Martinez Roxana , Posada Manuel , Taruscio Domenica , Lochmüller Hanns , Robinson Peter , Roos Marco , Oliveira José Luís
Published: October 2017

Patient registries are an essential tool to increase current knowledge regarding rare diseases. Understanding these data is a vital step to improve patient treatments and to create the most adequate tools for personalized medicine. However, the growing number of disease-specific patient registries brings also new technical challenges. Usually, these systems are developed as closed data silos, with independent formats and models, lacking comprehensive mechanisms to enable data sharing. To tackle these challenges, we developed a Semantic Web based solution that allows connecting distributed and heterogeneous registries, enabling the federation of knowledge between multiple independent environments. This semantic layer creates a holistic view over a set of anonymised registries, supporting semantic data representation, integrated access, and querying. The implemented system gave us the opportunity to answer challenging questions across disperse rare disease patient registries. The interconnection between those registries using Semantic Web technologies benefits our final solution in a way that we can query single or multiple instances according to our needs. The outcome is a unique semantic layer, connecting miscellaneous registries and delivering a lightweight holistic perspective over the wealth of knowledge stemming from linked rare disease patient registries.
Remaining Useful Life Prediction of Bearing with Vibration Signals Based on a Novel Indicator
Authors: Wu Bo , Li Wei , Qiu Ming-quan
Published: October 2017

Aiming at reducing the production downtime and maintenance cost, prognostics and health management (PHM) of rotating machinery often includes the remaining useful life (RUL) prediction of bearings. In this paper, a method combining the generalized Weibull failure rate function (WFRF) and radial basis function (RBF) neural network is developed to deal with the RUL prediction of bearings. A novel indicator, namely, the power value on the sensitive frequency band (SFB), is proposed to track bearing degradation process. Generalized WFRF is used to fit the degradation indicator series to reduce the effect of noise and avoid areas of fluctuation in the time domain. RBF neural network is employed to predict the RUL of bearings with times and fitted power values at present and previous inspections as input. Meanwhile, the life percentage is selected as output. The performance of the proposed method is validated by an accelerated bearing run-to-failure experiment, and the results demonstrate the advantage of this method in achieving more accurate RUL prediction.
Invasive Nontyphoidal Salmonella Infection in a Patient with Early-Stage Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Slawek Deepika , Dubrovskaya Yanina , Louie Eddie
Published: October 2017

We describe a case of a 72-year-old man with early-stage chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) who presented with invasive nontyphoidal Salmonella (iNTS) infection, necrotizing pneumonia, and chronic infection of a hilar lymph node. Infection is a major cause of death in patients with CLL. Though few cases of iNTS infection associated with CLL have been described in the literature, to our knowledge this is the first reported case of iNTS-associated necrotizing pneumonia. Immunocompromised state in patients, even with early-stage CLL, likely predisposes them to invasive infection with intracellular organisms, such as Salmonella spp. In this case, successful treatment was achieved with prolonged course of intravenous followed by oral antibiotics without any surgical removal of infected focus.
Effect of Isolation Technique and Location on the Phenotype of Human Corneal Stroma-Derived Cells
Authors: Nagymihály Richárd , Veréb Zoltán , Facskó Andrea , Moe Morten C. , Petrovski Goran
Published: October 2017

Purpose. To determine the effect of the isolation technique and location upon the phenotype of human corneal stroma-derived cells (CSCs).Methods. CSCs were isolated from the corneal stroma center and periphery using the explant or enzymatic digestion technique. The native tissue was stained for functional markers, while cultured cells were analysed by FACS. PCR was used to determine gene expression in the cultured versus native cells.Results. The native stroma was positive forα-actinin, ALDH1A1, CD31, CD34, Collagen I, and Vimentin. Cultured cells expressed CD73, CD90, CD105, CD51, Nestin, CD49a, CD49d, ABCG2, and CD47. PCR demonstrated a significant upregulation of ALDH1A1, AQP1, ITGB4, KLF4, CD31, CD34, and CXCR4 in the native tissue, while the expression of ABCG2, ITGAV, Nestin, CD73, CD90, CD105, and Vimentin were significantly higher in the cultured cells. GPC did not change.Conclusion. The study finds no significant difference between the phenotype of CSCs generated by the explant or enzymatic digestion technique from the center or periphery of the stroma. Isolation of the cells can be performed without regard to the location and isolation technique used for research. Cultivated CSCs undergo a complete surface marker and genotype profile change compared to the state in situ.
Lateral Supratrochanteric Approach to Sciatic and Femoral Nerve Blocks in Children: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Albokrinov Andrew A. , Fesenko Ulbolhan A. , Huz Taras B. , Perova-Sharonova Valentyna M.
Published: October 2017

Background. Sciatic and femoral nerve blocks (SNB and FNB) result in effective lower limb analgesia. Classical SNB and FNB require patient repositioning which can cause pain and discomfort. Alternative approaches to sciatic and femoral nerve blocks in supine patients can be useful. Materials and Methods. Neurostimulator-guided SNB and FNB from the lateral supratrochanteric approach were performed. Local anesthetic spread in SNB and FNB after radiographic opacification was analyzed. Time and number of attempts to perform blocks, needle depth, and clinical efficacy were assessed. Results. Mean needle passes number and procedure time for SNB were 2.5 ± 0.3 and 2.4 ± 0.2 min, respectively. Mean needle passes number and procedure time for FNB were 2.7 ± 0.27 and 2.59 ± 0.23 min, respectively. Mean skin to nerve distance was 9.1 ± 0.45 cm for SNB and 8.8 ± 0.5 cm for FNB. Radiographic opacification of SNB showed local anesthetic spread close to the sacrum and involvement of sacral plexus nerve roots. Spread of local anesthetic in FNB was typical. Intraoperative fentanyl administration was required in 2 patients (9.5%) with mean dose 1.8 ± 0.2 mcg/kg. Mean postoperative pain score was 0.34 ± 0.08 of 10. Conclusion. The lateral supratrochanteric approach to SNB and FNB in children can be an effective lower limb analgesic technique in supine patients. The trial is registered with ISRCTN70969666.
Influence of End Structure on Electromagnetic Forces on End Winding of a 1550 MW Nuclear Generator
Authors: Zeng Chong , Huang Song , Yang Yongming , Zhou Guanghou
Published: October 2017

A 3D electromagnetic model of the end region of a 1550 MW nuclear generator is set up. The electromagnetic forces on the involute and nose parts of the end winding under a rated operation are obtained through the 3D time-step finite element method. The electromagnetic forces on different coils in the same phase are analyzed. By changing the rotor’s relative length and stator coil’s linear length in the 3D electromagnetic model, the electromagnetic force distributions on the end winding are obtained. The influence of each structure change on the electromagnetic force in different directions is studied in detail. Conclusions that can be helpful in decreasing the electromagnetic forces on the end winding through optimizing the end region design are presented.
Production of Pectin-Cellulose Biofilms: A New Approach for Citrus Waste Recycling
Authors: Bátori Veronika , Jabbari Mostafa , Åkesson Dan , Lennartsson Patrik R. , Taherzadeh Mohammad J. , Zamani Akram
Published: October 2017

While citrus waste is abundantly generated, the disposal methods used today remain unsatisfactory: they can be deleterious for ruminants, can cause soil salinity, or are not economically feasible; yet citrus waste consists of various valuable polymers. This paper introduces a novel environmentally safe approach that utilizes citrus waste polymers as a biobased and biodegradable film, for example, for food packaging. Orange waste has been investigated for biofilm production, using the gelling ability of pectin and the strength of cellulosic fibres. A casting method was used to form a film from the previously washed, dried, and milled orange waste. Two film-drying methods, a laboratory oven and an incubator shaker, were compared. FE-SEM images confirmed a smoother film morphology when the incubator shaker was used for drying. The tensile strength of the films was 31.67 ± 4.21 and 34.76 ± 2.64 MPa, respectively, for the oven-dried and incubator-dried films, which is within the range of different commodity plastics. Additionally, biodegradability of the films was confirmed under anaerobic conditions. Films showed an opaque appearance with yellowish colour.
Validating Analytical Protocols to Determine Selected Pesticides and PCBs Using Routine Samples
Authors: Pindado Jiménez Oscar , García Alonso Susana , Pérez Pastor Rosa María
Published: October 2017

This study aims at providing recommendations concerning the validation of analytical protocols by using routine samples. It is intended to provide a case-study on how to validate the analytical methods in different environmental matrices. In order to analyze the selected compounds (pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls) in two different environmental matrices, the current work has performed and validated two analytical procedures by GC-MS. A description is given of the validation of the two protocols by the analysis of more than 30 samples of water and sediments collected along nine months. The present work also scopes the uncertainty associated with both analytical protocols. In detail, uncertainty of water sample was performed through a conventional approach. However, for the sediments matrices, the estimation of proportional/constant bias is also included due to its inhomogeneity. Results for the sediment matrix are reliable, showing a range 25–35% of analytical variability associated with intermediate conditions. The analytical methodology for the water matrix determines the selected compounds with acceptable recoveries and the combined uncertainty ranges between 20 and 30%. Analyzing routine samples is rarely applied to assess trueness of novel analytical methods and up to now this methodology was not focused on organochlorine compounds in environmental matrices.
miR-20a Regulates FAS Expression in Osteosarcoma Cells by Modulating FAS Promoter Activity and Can be Therapeutically Targeted to Inhibit Lung Metastases
Authors: Yang Yuanzheng , Huang Gangxiong , Zhou Zhichao , Fewell Jason G. , Kleinerman Eugenie S.
Published: October 2017

The metastatic potential of osteosarcoma cells is inversely correlated to cell surface FAS expression. Downregulation of FAS allows osteosarcoma cells to escape FAS ligand–mediated apoptosis when they enter a FAS ligand–positive microenvironment such as the lung. We have previously demonstrated that miR-20a, encoded by the miR-17-92 cluster, downregulates FAS expression in osteosarcoma. We further demonstrated an inverse correlation between FAS expression and miR-20a expression. However, the mechanism of FAS regulation by miR-20a was still unclear. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the mechanism of FAS regulation by miR-20a in vitro and test the effect of targeting miR-20a in vivo. We investigated whether miR-20a's downregulation of FAS was mediated by binding to the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of FAS mRNA with the consequent induction of mRNA degradation or translational suppression. We identified and mutated two miR-20a binding sites on the FAS mRNA 3′-UTR. Using luciferase reporter assays, we demonstrated that miR-20a did not bind to either the wild-type or mutated FAS 3′-UTR. In contrast, overexpression of miR-20a resulted in downregulation of FAS promoter activity. Similarly, the inhibition of miR-20a increased FAS promoter activity. The critical region identified on the FAS promoter was between −240 bp and −150 bp. Delivery of anti-miR-20a in vivo using nanoparticles in mice with established osteosarcoma lung metastases resulted in upregulation of FAS and tumor growth inhibition. Taken together, our data suggest that miR-20a regulates FAS expression through the modulation of the FAS promoter and that targeting miR-20a using anti-miR-20a has therapeutic potential. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(1); 130–9. ©2017 AACR.
Reversible Transgene Expression Reduces Fratricide and Permits 4-1BB Costimulation of CAR T Cells Directed to T-cell Malignancies
Authors: Mamonkin Maksim , Mukherjee Malini , Srinivasan Madhuwanti , Sharma Sandhya , Gomes-Silva Diogo , Mo Feiyan , Krenciute Giedre , Orange Jordan S. , Brenner Malcolm K.
Published: October 2017

T cells expressing second-generation chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) specific for CD5, a T-cell surface marker present on normal and malignant T cells, can selectively kill tumor cells. We aimed to improve this killing by substituting the CD28 costimulatory endodomain (28.z) with 4-1BB (BB.z), as 28.z CD5 CAR T cells rapidly differentiated into short-lived effector cells. In contrast, 4-1BB costimulation is known to promote development of the central memory subpopulation. Here, we found BB.z CD5 CAR T cells had impaired growth compared with 28.z CD5.CAR T cells, due to increased T-cell–T-cell fratricide. We demonstrate that TRAF signaling from the 4-1BB endodomain upregulated the intercellular adhesion molecule 1, which stabilized the fratricidal immunologic synapse between CD5 CAR T cells. As the surviving BB.z CD5 CAR T cells retained the desired central memory phenotype, we aimed to circumvent the 4-1BB–mediated toxicity using a regulated expression system that reversibly inhibits CAR expression. This system minimized CAR signaling and T-cell fratricide during in vitro expansion in the presence of a small-molecule inhibitor, and restored CAR expression and antitumor function of transduced T cells in vivo. These studies reveal a mechanism by which 4-1BB costimulation impairs expansion of CD5 CAR T cells and offer a solution to mitigate this toxicity. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(1); 47–58. ©2017 AACR.
Characterization of Gadolinium Contrast Enhancement of Radiofrequency Ablation Lesions in Predicting Edema and Chronic Lesion Size
Authors: Ghafoori Elyar , Kholmovski Eugene G. , Thomas Sam , Silvernagel Josh , Angel Nathan , Hu Nan , Dosdall Derek J. , MacLeod Rob , Ranjan Ravi
Published: October 2017

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been used to acutely visualize radiofrequency ablation lesions, but its accuracy in predicting chronic lesion size is unknown. The main goal of this study was to characterize different areas of enhancement in late gadolinium enhancement MRI done immediately after ablation to predict acute edema and chronic lesion size.

Methods and Results

In a canine model (n=10), ventricular radiofrequency lesions were created using ThermoCool SmartTouch (Biosense Webster) catheter. All animals underwent MRI (late gadolinium enhancement and T2-weighted edema imaging) immediately after ablation and after 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks. Edema, microvascular obstruction, and enhanced volumes were identified in MRI and normalized to chronic histological volume. Immediately after contrast administration, the microvascular obstruction region was 3.2±1.1 times larger than the chronic lesion volume in acute MRI. Even 60 minutes after contrast administration, edema was 8.7±3.31 times and the enhanced area 6.14±2.74 times the chronic lesion volume. Exponential fit to the microvascular obstruction volume was found to be the best predictor of chronic lesion volume at 26.14 minutes (95% prediction interval, 24.35–28.11 minutes) after contrast injection. The edema volume in late gadolinium enhancement correlated well with edema volume in T2-weighted MRI with an
R
2
of 0.99.

Conclusion

Microvascular obstruction region on acute late gadolinium enhancement images acquired 26.1 minutes after contrast administration can accurately predict the chronic lesion volume. We also show that T1-weighted MRI images acquired immediately after contrast injection accurately shows edema resulting from radiofrequency ablation.