bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PEDF-derived peptide promotes skeletal muscle regeneration through its mitogenic effect on muscle progenitor cells
Authors: Ho Tsung-Chuan , Chiang Yi-Pin , Chuang Chih-Kuang , Chen Show-Li , Hsieh Jui-Wen , Lan Yu-Wen , Tsao Yeou-Ping
Published: June 2015

In response injury, intrinsic repair mechanisms are activated in skeletal muscle to replace the damaged muscle fibers with new muscle fibers. The regeneration process starts with the proliferation of satellite cells to give rise to myoblasts, which subsequently differentiate terminally into myofibers. Here, we investigated the promotion effect of pigment epithelial-derived factor (PEDF) on muscle regeneration. We report that PEDF and a synthetic PEDF-derived short peptide (PSP; residues Ser93-Leu112) induce satellite cell proliferation in vitro and promote muscle regeneration in vivo. Extensively, soleus muscle necrosis was induced in rats by bupivacaine, and an injectable alginate gel was used to release the PSP in the injured muscle. PSP delivery was found to stimulate satellite cell proliferation in damaged muscle and enhance the growth of regenerating myofibers, with complete regeneration of normal muscle mass by 2 wk. In cell culture, PEDF/PSP stimulated C2C12 myoblast proliferation, together with a rise in cyclin D1 expression. PEDF induced the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, Akt, and STAT3 in C2C12 myoblasts. Blocking the activity of ERK, Akt, or STAT3 with pharmacological inhibitors attenuated the effects of PEDF/PSP on the induction of C2C12 cell proliferation and cyclin D1 expression. Moreover, 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine pulse-labeling demonstrated that PEDF/PSP stimulated primary rat satellite cell proliferation in myofibers in vitro. In summary, we report for the first time that PSP is capable of promoting the regeneration of skeletal muscle. The signaling mechanism involves the ERK, AKT, and STAT3 pathways. These results show the potential utility of this PEDF peptide for muscle regeneration.
Regular postexercise cooling enhances mitochondrial biogenesis through AMPK and p38 MAPK in human skeletal muscle
Authors: Ihsan Mohammed , Markworth James F. , Watson Greig , Choo Hui Cheng , Govus Andrew , Pham Toan , Hickey Anthony , Cameron-Smith David , Abbiss Chris R.
Published: June 2015

This study investigated the effect of regular postexercise cold water immersion (CWI) on muscle aerobic adaptations to endurance training. Eight males performed 3 sessions/wk of endurance training for 4 wk. Following each session, subjects immersed one leg in a cold water bath (10°C; COLD) for 15 min, while the contralateral leg served as a control (CON). Muscle biopsies were obtained from vastus lateralis of both CON and COLD legs prior to training and 48 h following the last training session. Samples were analyzed for signaling kinases: p38 MAPK and AMPK, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), enzyme activities indicative of mitochondrial biogenesis, and protein subunits representative of respiratory chain complexes I–V. Following training, subjects' peak oxygen uptake and running velocity were improved by 5.9% and 6.2%, respectively ( P < 0.05). Repeated CWI resulted in higher total AMPK, phosphorylated AMPK, phosphorylated acetyl-CoA carboxylase, β-3-hydroxyacyl-CoA-dehydrogenase and the protein subunits representative of complex I and III ( P < 0.05). Moreover, large effect sizes (Cohen's d > 0.8) were noted with changes in protein content of p38 ( d = 1.02, P = 0.064), PGC-1α ( d = 0.99, P = 0.079), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α ( d = 0.93, P = 0.10) in COLD compared with CON. No differences between conditions were observed in the representative protein subunits of respiratory complexes II, IV, and V and in the activities of several mitochondrial enzymes ( P > 0.05). These findings indicate that regular CWI enhances p38, AMPK, and possibly mitochondrial biogenesis.
Acute SGLT inhibition normalizes O2tension in the renal cortex but causes hypoxia in the renal medulla in anaesthetized control and diabetic rats
Authors: O'Neill Julie , Fasching Angelica , Pihl Liselotte , Patinha Daniela , Franzén Stephanie , Palm Fredrik
Published: June 2015

Early stage diabetic nephropathy is characterized by glomerular hyperfiltration and reduced renal tissue Po2. Recent observations have indicated that increased tubular Na+-glucose linked transport (SGLT) plays a role in the development of diabetes-induced hyperfiltration. The aim of the present study was to determine how inhibition of SLGT impacts upon Po2in the diabetic rat kidney. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin in Sprague-Dawley rats 2 wk before experimentation. Renal hemodynamics, excretory function, and renal O2homeostasis were measured in anesthetized control and diabetic rats during baseline and after acute SGLT inhibition using phlorizin (200 mg/kg ip). Baseline arterial pressure was similar in both groups and unaffected by SGLT inhibition. Diabetic animals displayed reduced baseline Po2in both the cortex and medulla. SGLT inhibition improved cortical Po2in the diabetic kidney, whereas it reduced medullary Po2in both groups. SGLT inhibition reduced Na+transport efficiency [tubular Na+transport (TNa)/renal O2consumption (Qo2)] in the control kidney, whereas the already reduced TNa/Qo2in the diabetic kidney was unaffected by SGLT inhibition. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that when SGLT is inhibited, renal cortex Po2in the diabetic rat kidney is normalized, which implies that increased proximal tubule transport contributes to the development of hypoxia in the diabetic kidney. The reduction in medullary Po2in both control and diabetic kidneys during the inhibition of proximal Na+reabsorption suggests the redistribution of active Na+transport to less efficient nephron segments, such as the medullary thick ascending limb, which results in medullary hypoxia.
Quantification of bursting and synchrony in cultured hippocampal neurons
Authors: Eisenman Lawrence N. , Emnett Christine M. , Mohan Jayaram , Zorumski Charles F. , Mennerick Steven
Published: June 2015

It is widely appreciated that neuronal networks exhibit patterns of bursting and synchrony that are not captured by simple measures such as average spike rate. These patterns can encode information or represent pathological behavior such as seizures. However, methods for quantifying bursting and synchrony are not agreed upon and can be confounded with spike rate measures. Previous validation has largely relied on in silico networks and single experimental conditions. How published measures of bursting and synchrony perform when applied to biological networks of varied average spike rate and subjected to varied experimental challenges is unclear. In multielectrode array recordings of network activity, we found that two mechanistically distinct drugs, cyclothiazide and bicuculline, produced equivalent increases in average spike rate but differed in bursting and synchrony. We applied several measures of bursting to the recordings (2 threshold interval methods and a surprise-based method) and found that a measure based on an average critical interval, adjusted for the array-wide spike rate, performed best in quantifying differential drug effects. To quantify synchrony, we compared a coefficient of variation-based measure, the recently proposed spike time tiling coefficient, the SPIKE-distance measure, and a global synchrony index. The spike time tiling coefficient, the SPIKE-distance measure, and the global synchrony index all captured a difference between drugs with the best performance exhibited by the global synchrony index. In summary, our exploration should aid other investigators by highlighting strengths and limitations of current methods.
Structural and functional characterization of dendritic arbors and GABAergic synaptic inputs on interneurons and principal cells in the rat basolateral amygdala
Authors: Klenowski Paul M. , Fogarty Matthew J. , Belmer Arnauld , Noakes Peter G. , Bellingham Mark C. , Bartlett Selena E.
Published: June 2015

The basolateral amygdala (BLA) is a complex brain region associated with processing emotional states, such as fear, anxiety, and stress. Some aspects of these emotional states are driven by the network activity of synaptic connections, derived from both local circuitry and projections to the BLA from other regions. Although the synaptic physiology and general morphological characteristics are known for many individual cell types within the BLA, the combination of morphological, electrophysiological, and distribution of neurochemical GABAergic synapses in a three-dimensional neuronal arbor has not been reported for single neurons from this region. The aim of this study was to assess differences in morphological characteristics of BLA principal cells and interneurons, quantify the distribution of GABAergic neurochemical synapses within the entire neuronal arbor of each cell type, and determine whether GABAergic synaptic density correlates with electrophysiological recordings of inhibitory postsynaptic currents. We show that BLA principal neurons form complex dendritic arborizations, with proximal dendrites having fewer spines but higher densities of neurochemical GABAergic synapses compared with distal dendrites. Furthermore, we found that BLA interneurons exhibited reduced dendritic arbor lengths and spine densities but had significantly higher densities of putative GABAergic synapses compared with principal cells, which was correlated with an increased frequency of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents. The quantification of GABAergic connectivity, in combination with morphological and electrophysiological measurements of the BLA cell types, is the first step toward a greater understanding of how fear and stress lead to changes in morphology, local connectivity, and/or synaptic reorganization of the BLA.
Familial Abdominal and Intestinal Lipomatosis Presenting with Upper GI Bleeding
Authors: Bilgic Yilmaz , Altinsoy Hasan Baki , Yildirim Nezahat , Alatas Ozkan , Kanat Burhan Hakan , Sahin Abdurrahman
Published: June 2015

Although lipomas are encapsulated benign tumors, systemic lipomatosis defines infiltrative nonencapsulated tumors resembling normal adipose tissue. Abdominal lipomatosis and intestinal lipomatosis are different clinicopathological entities with similar clinical symptoms. We describe here a case presenting with upper gastrointestinal bleeding from eroded submucosal lipoma at duodenum secondary to intestinal lipomatosis and abdominal lipomatosis.
Hypercyclic Behavior of Translation Operators on Spaces of Analytic Functions on Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Mozhyrovska Zoryana , Zagorodnyuk Andriy V.
Published: June 2015

We consider special Hilbert spaces of analytic functions of many infinite variables and examine composition operators on these spaces. In particular, we prove that under some conditions a translation operator is bounded and hypercyclic.
The Role of Mast Cell Specific Chymases and Tryptases in Tumor Angiogenesis
Authors: de Souza Junior Devandir Antonio , Santana Ana Carolina , da Silva Elaine Zayas Marcelino , Oliver Constance , Jamur Maria Celia
Published: June 2015

An association between mast cells and tumor angiogenesis is known to exist, but the exact role that mast cells play in this process is still unclear. It is thought that the mediators released by mast cells are important in neovascularization. However, it is not known how individual mediators are involved in this process. The major constituents of mast cell secretory granules are the mast cell specific proteases chymase, tryptase, and carboxypeptidase A3. Several previous studies aimed to understand the way in which specific mast cell granule constituents act to induce tumor angiogenesis. A body of evidence indicates that mast cell proteases are the pivotal players in inducing tumor angiogenesis. In this review, the likely mechanisms by which tryptase and chymase can act directly or indirectly to induce tumor angiogenesis are discussed. Finally, information presented here in this review indicates that mast cell proteases significantly influence angiogenesis thus affecting tumor growth and progression. This also suggests that these proteases could serve as novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of various types of cancer.
In VitroAbility of a Novel Nanohydroxyapatite Oral Rinse to Occlude Dentine Tubules
Authors: Hill Robert G. , Chen Xiaohui , Gillam David G.
Published: June 2015

Objectives. The aim of the study was to investigate the ability of a novel nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) desensitizing oral rinse to occlude dentine tubules compared to selected commercially available desensitizing oral rinses.Methods. 25 caries-free extracted molars were sectioned into 1 mm thick dentine discs. The dentine discs (n=25) were etched with 6% citric acid for 2 minutes and rinsed with distilled water, prior to a 30-second application of test and control oral rinses. Evaluation was by (1) Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) of the dentine surface and (2) fluid flow measurements through a dentine disc.Results. Most of the oral rinses failed to adequately cover the dentine surface apart from the nHa oral rinse. However the hydroxyapatite, 1.4% potassium oxalate, and arginine/PVM/MA copolymer oral rinses, appeared to be relatively more effective than the nHA test and negative control rinses (potassium nitrate) in relation to a reduction in fluid flow measurements.Conclusions. Although the novel nHA oral rinse demonstrated the ability to occlude the dentine tubules and reduce the fluid flow measurements, some of the other oral rinses appeared to demonstrate a statistically significant reduction in fluid flow through the dentine disc, in particular the arginine/PVM/MA copolymer oral rinse.
Medical Image Fusion Based on Rolling Guidance Filter and Spiking Cortical Model
Authors: Shuaiqi Liu , Jie Zhao , Mingzhu Shi
Published: June 2015

Medical image fusion plays an important role in diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as image-guided radiotherapy and surgery. Although numerous medical image fusion methods have been proposed, most of these approaches are sensitive to the noise and usually lead to fusion image distortion, and image information loss. Furthermore, they lack universality when dealing with different kinds of medical images. In this paper, we propose a new medical image fusion to overcome the aforementioned issues of the existing methods. It is achieved by combining with rolling guidance filter (RGF) and spiking cortical model (SCM). Firstly, saliency of medical images can be captured by RGF. Secondly, a self-adaptive threshold of SCM is gained by utilizing the mean and variance of the source images. Finally, fused image can be gotten by SCM motivated by RGF coefficients. Experimental results show that the proposed method is superior to other current popular ones in both subjectively visual performance and objective criteria.
The Role of Mifepristone in Meningiomas Management: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Cossu Giulia , Levivier Marc , Daniel Roy Thomas , Messerer Mahmoud
Published: June 2015

Objectives. We performed a systematic literature review to analyze the clinical application and the safety of mifepristone, a prominent antiprogesterone agent, in meningioma patients.Materials and Methods. A systematic search was performed through Medline, Cochrane, and clinicaltrials.gov databases from 1960 to 2014.Study Selection. Studies were selected through a PICO approach. Population was meningioma patients, meningioma cells cultures, and animal models. Intervention was mifepristone administration. Control was placebo administration or any other drug tested. Outcomes were clinical and radiological responsiveness, safety profile, and cell growth inhibition.Results. A total of 7 preclinical and 6 clinical studies and one abstract were included. Encouraging results were found in preclinical studies. Concerning clinical studies, the response rate to mifepristone in terms of radiological regression and symptomatic improvement/stability in patients with inoperable meningioma was low. In meningiomatosis, favorable preliminary results were recorded. The safety profile was good. Limitations were as follows. The tumoral expression of progesterone receptors was not analyzed systematically in every study considered.Conclusions. No clear evidence exists to recommend mifepristone in inoperable meningiomas. Preliminary encouraging results were found in diffuse meningiomatosis. Mifepristone is a well-tolerated treatment. Patients’ selection and hormonal profile analysis in meningiomas are fundamental for a better understanding of its benefit. Multicenter placebo-controlled trials are required.
Numerical Assessment of Similitude Parameters and Dimensional Analysis for Water Entry Problems
Authors: Facci Andrea L. , Ubertini Stefano
Published: June 2015

The prediction of impulsive loads deriving from the sudden impact of a solid body on the water surface is of fundamental importance for a wide range of engineering applications. The study of hull-slamming phenomena largely relies on laboratory scale experimental investigations and on simplified analytical models. The aim of this paper is to quantitatively assess the interplay between the relevant nondimensional parameters for the water entry of a two-dimensional body, evidencing the similitude conditions that allow the transition from scaled experiments to real size applications. This assessment is performed through the numerical study of the hydrodynamics induced by the water impact of a two-dimensional wedge. The fluid flow is considered incompressible. First of all numerical simulations are validated by comparison with experimental data from the literature and with the Wagner seminal theory. Afterwards, a thorough computational study is performed by systematically varying all the relevant parameters, such as the nondimensional entry velocity and acceleration. We conclude by evidencing some design prescriptions that should be adopted in order to facilitate the transition of laboratory scale experiments to real scale applications.
Influence of Au Nanoparticle Shape on Au@Cu2O Heterostructures
Authors: Zhu Jie , Lu Na , Chen Wei , Kong Lina , Yang Yun , Ma Dekun , Huang Shaoming
Published: June 2015

Synthesis of metal‐semiconductor heterostructures may allow the combination of function of the corresponding components and/or the enhanced performance resulting from the interactions between all the components. In this paper, Au@Cu2O core‐shell heterostructures are prepared by a seed‐growth method, using different‐shaped Au nanocrystals as the seeds such as nanorods, octahedra, decahedra, dots, and nanocubes. The results revealed that the final structure of Au@Cu2O was greatly influenced by the shape of the seeds used. Exposure of Cu2O{111} and Cu2O{001} favored when the overgrowth happened on Au{111} and Au{001} surface, respectively. The size of the product can also be tuned by the amount of the seeds. The results reported here provide a thinking clue to modulate the shape and size of core‐shell nanocrystals, which is useful in developing new materials with desired performance.
Adaptive Speech Streaming Based on Speech Quality Estimation and Artificial Bandwidth Extension for Voice over Wireless Multimedia Sensor Networks
Authors: Kang Jin Ah , Park Nam In , Kim Hong Kook , Lee Seong Ro
Published: June 2015

In this paper, an adaptive speech streaming method is proposed to improve the perceived speech quality (PSQ) of voice over wireless multimedia sensor network (WMSNs). First of all, the proposed method estimates the PSQ of the received speech data under different network conditions that are represented by the packet loss rates (PLRs). Simultaneously, the proposed method classifies the speech signal as either an onset or a nononset frame. Based on the estimated PSQ and the speech class, it determines an appropriate bit rate for the redundant speech data (RSD) that are transmitted with the primary speech data (PSD) to help reconstruct the speech signals of any lost frames. In particular, when the estimated PLR is high, the bit rate of the RSD should be increased by decreasing that of the PSD. Thus, the bandwidth of the PSD is changed from wideband to narrowband, and an artificial bandwidth extension technique is applied to the decoded narrowband speech. It is shown from the simulation that the proposed method significantly improves the decoded speech quality under packet loss conditions in a WMSN, compared to a decoder-based packet loss concealment method and a conventional redundant speech transmission method.
Successful Treatment ofCandida parapsilosisFungemia in Two Preterms with Voriconazole
Authors: Altuncu Emel , Bilgen Hulya , Soysal Ahmet , Ozek Eren
Published: June 2015

Herein, we report two preterms with invasive candidiasis refractory to liposomal amphotericin B (AMB) treatment in spite of low MIC levels (MIC: 0.5 mcg/mL). Both of the patients’ blood cultures were persistently positive forC. parapsilosisdespite high therapeutic doses (AMB: 7 mg/kg per day). After starting voriconazole blood cultures became negative and both of the patients were treated successfully without any side effects. In conclusion, although it is not a standard treatment in neonatal patients, our limited experience with these patients suggests that voriconazole appears to be a safe antifungal agent to be used in critically ill preterm infants with persistent fungemia despite AMB treatment.
Dental Implant Supported Restorations Improve Quality of Life in Osteoporotic Women
Authors: DeBaz Christine , Hahn Jenna , Lang Lisa , Palomo Leena
Published: June 2015

Introduction. The aim of this study is to compare the quality of life (QoL) in partially edentulous osteoporotic women who have missing teeth restored with dental implant retained restorations with those who do not and, secondarily, to report the rate of osteonecrosis in this sample.Methods. 237 participants completed the Utian QoL survey, a 23-question document measuring across psychosocial domains of well-being including occupational, health, emotional, and sexual domains which together contribute to an overall score. The subset of participants having dental implant supported prosthesis (64) was compared to the subset having nonimplant supported fixed restorations (47), the subset having nonimplant supported removable restorations (60), and the subset having no restoration of missing teeth (66).Results. ANOVA showed significant difference in all QoL domains between the four subsets(p<0.05). Although 134 reported oral bisphosphonate and 51 reported IV bisphosphonate use, no signs of ONJ were identified in any participants.Conclusion. These findings show implant retained oral rehabilitation has a statistically significant impact over nonimplant and traditional fixed restorations, removable restorations, and no restoration of missing teeth in far reaching areas including occupational, health, emotional, sexual, and overall QoL. These findings also support future examination of psychosocial outcomes associated with oral rehabilitation and the incorporation of oral health into women’s health promotion.
Acute Renal Failure due to Leukaemic Infiltration in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia
Authors: Kayar Yusuf , Ekinci Iskender , Bay Ilker , Bayram Kayar Nuket , Hamdard Jamshid , Kazancıoğlu Rumeyza
Published: June 2015

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a malignancy characterized by clonal proliferation and accumulation of B lymphocytes. Although leukaemic infiltration of the kidney is well recognized in CLL, acute renal failure (ARF) due to leukaemic infiltration is extremely rare. Here we present a case of ARF as the initial manifestation of CLL. The diagnosis was made by a kidney biopsy. Treatment with cyclophosphamide and prednisolone resulted in a completely improved renal function.
Study of Selected Metals Distribution, Source Apportionment, and Risk Assessment in Suburban Soil, Pakistan
Authors: Iqbal Javed , Shah Munir H.
Published: June 2015

Composite soil samples collected from suburban areas were analyzed for Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, Sr, and Zn by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Based on pseudototal metal analysis, Fe, Mn, Sr, and Zn were the prevailing metals while Cd, Co, Cr, and Pb were the least participants. However, based on bioavailability, Cd, Co, Pb, and Sr were easily leachable and might pose adverse effects to soil biota. In ecological risk assessment, contamination factor demonstrated moderate contamination by Co, Sr, and Zn and high contamination by Cd, Cu, and Pb; geoaccumulation index indicated heavy to extreme contamination by Cd and heavy contamination by Pb; enrichment factor revealed significant enrichment by Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Sr, and Zn and extreme enrichment by Cd and Pb. Substantial human inputs for Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Pb, Sr, and Zn were also revealed by principal component analysis in the examined soil. Overall the study area was found to be contaminated at considerable/high degree.
Radiation‐Associated Toxicities in Obese Women with Endometrial Cancer: More Than Just BMI?
Authors: Dandapani Savita V. , Zhang Ying , Jennelle Richard , Lin Yvonne G.
Published: June 2015

Purpose. The study characterizes the impact of obesity on postoperative radiation‐associated toxicities in women with endometrial cancer (EC). Material and Methods. A retrospective study identified 96 women with EC referred to a large urban institution’s radiation oncology practice for postoperative whole pelvic radiotherapy (WPRT) and/or intracavitary vaginal brachytherapy (ICBT). Demographic and clinicopathologic data were obtained. Toxicities were graded according to RTOG Acute Radiation Morbidity Scoring Criteria. Follow‐up period ranged from 1 month to 11 years (median 2 years). Data were analyzed by χ2, logistic regression, and recursive partitioning analyses. Results. 68 EC patients who received WPRT and/or ICBT were analyzed. Median age was 52 years (29–73). The majority were Hispanic (71%). Median BMI at diagnosis was 34.5 kg/m2 (20.5–56.6 kg/m2). BMI was independently associated with radiation‐related cutaneous (p = 0.022) and gynecologic‐related (p = 0.027) toxicities. Younger women also reported more gynecologic‐related toxicities (p = 0.039). Adjuvant radiation technique was associated with increased gastrointestinal‐ and genitourinary‐related toxicities but not gynecologic‐related toxicity. Conclusions. Increasing BMI was associated with increased frequency of gynecologic and cutaneous radiation‐associated toxicities. Additional studies to critically evaluate the radiation treatment dosing and treatment fields in obese EC patients are warranted to identify strategies to mitigate the radiation‐associated toxicities in these women.
Epidemiology of Neonatal Sepsis and Implicated Pathogens: A Study from Egypt
Authors: Shehab El-Din Eman M. Rabie , El-Sokkary Mohamed M. Adel , Bassiouny Mohamed Reda , Hassan Ramadan
Published: June 2015

Prospective analytic study was conducted in NICUs of three Egyptian Neonatal Network (EGNN) participants in Mansoura Hospitals in Egypt over a period of 18 months from March 2011 to August 2012. By using EGNN 28-day discharge form, all demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were recorded and studied. During the study period, 357 neonates were diagnosed as suspected sepsis with an incidence of 45.9% (357/778) among the admitted neonates at the three neonatal intensive care units. 344 neonates (sex ratio = 1.3:1) were enrolled in the study in which 152 (44.2%) were classified as early onset sepsis EOS (≤72 hr) and 192 (55.8%) as late onset sepsis LOS (>72 hr). Among the LOS cases, 33.9% (65/192) were caused by nosocomial infections. In 40.7% (140/344), sepsis was confirmed by positive blood culture. The total mortality rate for the proven neonatal sepsis was 51% (25/49) and 42.9% (39/91) for EOS and LOS, respectively. Coagulase negative staphylococci were predominant isolates in both EOS and LOS, followed byKlebsiella pneumoniae. Most of the bacterial isolates had low sensitivity to the commonly used empiric antibiotics. However, 70.1% (89/127) exhibited multidrug resistance. Best sensitivities among Gram-positive isolates were found against imipenem, ciprofloxacin, vancomycin, and amikacin.
The Mechanical Properties of a Poly(methyl methacrylate) Denture Base Material Modified with Dimethyl Itaconate and Di-n-butyl Itaconate
Authors: Spasojevic Pavle , Zrilic Milorad , Panic Vesna , Stamenkovic Dragoslav , Seslija Sanja , Velickovic Sava
Published: June 2015

This study investigates a wide range of clinically relevant mechanical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) denture base materials modified with di-methyl itaconate (DMI) and di-n-butyl itaconate (DBI) in order to compare them to a commercial PMMA denture base material. The commercial denture base formulation was modified with DMI and DBI by replacing up to 10 wt% of methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer. The specimens were prepared by standard bath curing process. The influence of the itaconate content on hardness, impact strength, tensile, and thermal and dynamic mechanical properties was investigated. It is found that the addition of di-n-alkyl itaconates gives homogenous blends that show decreased glass transition temperature, as well as decrease in storage modulus, ultimate tensile strength, and impact fracture resistance with increase in the itaconate content. The mean values of surface hardness show no significant change with the addition of itaconates. The magnitude of the measured values indicates that the poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) denture base material modified with itaconates could be developed into a less toxic, more environmentally and patient friendly product than commercial pure PMMA denture base material.
Biochemical Modulation of Lipid Pathway in MicroalgaeDunaliellasp. for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Talebi Ahmad Farhad , Tohidfar Masoud , Mousavi Derazmahalleh Seyedeh Mahsa , Sulaiman Alawi , Baharuddin Azhari Samsu , Tabatabaei Meisam
Published: June 2015

Exploitation of renewable sources of energy such as algal biodiesel could turn energy supplies problem around. Studies on a locally isolated strain ofDunaliellasp. showed that the mean lipid content in cultures enriched by 200 mg L−1myoinositol was raised by around 33% (1.5 times higher than the control). Similarly, higher lipid productivity values were achieved in cultures treated by 100 and 200 mg L−1myoinositol. Fluorometry analyses (microplate fluorescence and flow cytometry) revealed increased oil accumulation in the Nile red-stained algal samples. Moreover, it was predicted that biodiesel produced from myoinositol-treated cells possessed improved oxidative stability, cetane number, and cloud point values. From the genomic point of view, real-time analyses revealed that myoinositol negatively influenced transcript abundance ofAccDgene (one of the key genes involved in lipid production pathway) due to feedback inhibition and that its positive effect must have been exerted through other genes. The findings of the current research are not to interprete that myoinositol supplementation could answer all the challenges faced in microalgal biodiesel production but instead to show that “there is a there there” for biochemical modulation strategies, which we achieved, increased algal oil quantity and enhanced resultant biodiesel quality.
An Update on Ocular Surface Epithelial Stem Cells: Cornea and Conjunctiva
Authors: Ramos Tiago , Scott Deborah , Ahmad Sajjad
Published: June 2015

The human ocular surface (front surface of the eye) is formed by two different types of epithelia: the corneal epithelium centrally and the conjunctival epithelium that surrounds this. These two epithelia are maintained by different stem cell populations (limbal stem cells for the corneal epithelium and the conjunctival epithelial stem cells). In this review, we provide an update on our understanding of these epithelia and their stem cells systems, including embryology, new markers, and controversy around the location of these stem cells. We also provide an update on the translation of this understanding into clinical applications for the treatment of debilitating ocular surface diseases.
Soil Fertility in relation to Landscape Position and Land Use/Cover Types: A Case Study of the Lake Kivu Pilot Learning Site
Authors: Mwanjalolo Jackson-Gilbert Majaliwa , Makooma Moses Tenywa , Rao Karuturi P. C. , Musana Bernard , Bernard Fungo , Leblanc Bahiga , Mkangya Jumaine , Muke Kuule , Rick Kamugisha , Luswata Kizza Charles , Josephine Nampijja , Esther Sebuliba , Carol Nandozi , Bernard Barasa , Ekaka Azanga , Nyamwaro Sospeter Onchoke , Josephat Mugabo , Robin Buruchara , Oluwole Fatunbi , Katcho Karume , Adekunle Adewale
Published: June 2015

This study determined the change and distribution of land-uses/covers along the landscape, and evaluated the nutrient status of the top soil layer in the Lake Kivu Pilot Learning Site (LKPLS) benchmarked micro-catchments. Soil physical and chemical properties were quantified using triplicate soil samples collected from each land-use/cover at two depths (0–15 and 15–30 cm) in three LK PLS Learning Innovation Platform (IP) sites (Bufundi in Uganda, Mupfuni-Shanga in D.R. Congo, Gataraga in Rwanda). Small scale agriculture has increased in all the benchmarked micro-catchments at the expense of other land-uses/covers. In the settlement areas land-use/cover distribution along the landscape varied across sites and countries; the major one being eucalyptus woodlots, wetland, and perennials and annuals crops in Bufundi; annuals and perennials crops in Mupfuni-Shanga; and annuals crops in Gataraga. Perennial crops tended to occur at the footslope and valley bottoms, while the annuals occurred at the upper backslopes and summits. Available P and K were relatively higher and C/N ratio (7.28) was the lowest in Mupfuni Shanga. Annual crops had the lowest available P and N across site (P<0.05). The key nutrients N, P and K were below the critical values for plant growth for Bufundi.
Ureteral Injury with Delayed Massive Hematuria after Transvaginal Ultrasound-Guided Oocyte Retrieval
Authors: Burnik Papler Tanja , Vrtačnik Bokal Eda , Šalamun Vesna , Galič Dejan , Smrkolj Tomaž , Jančar Nina
Published: June 2015

We report a case of ureteral injury with delayed hematuria after transvaginal oocyte retrieval. A 28-year-old infertile patient with a history of previous laparoscopic resection of endometriotic nodes of both sacrouterine ligaments presented with abdominal pain one day after oocyte retrieval. Four days after oocyte retrieval, she presented with massive hematuria that reappeared 6 days after oocyte retrieval. Monopolar coagulation with wire electrode and insertion of a double-J-stent was performed during operative cystoscopy. The patient recovered completely after transfusion and had no signs of renal impairment after ureteric stent removal. This is the first report of ureteral injury after oocyte retrieval presenting itself with delayed massive hematuria and no signs of renal dysfunction or urinary leakage into retroperitoneal space.
Cortisol Response to Psychosocial Stress in Chinese Early Puberty Girls: Possible Role of Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Sun Ying , Deng Fang , Liu Yang , Tao Fang-Biao
Published: June 2015

Objective. The present study aimed at investigating unique patterns of salivary cortisol reactivity and recovery in response to a social stressor among girls with early puberty and exploring possible role of depressive symptom in this association.Design. Case-control study.Patients. Fifty-six girls with early puberty and age- and body mass index- (BMI-) matched normal puberty controls(n=56)were selected.Measurements. Salivary cortisol was measured in response to the Groningen Social Stress Test for Children.Results. Girls with early puberty had higher cortisol concentration at the end of the GSST (C3), cortisol concentration 20 min after the end of the GSST (C4), and AUC increment (AUCi) compared to non-early puberty girls. Depressive symptoms correlated with blunted HPA reactivity among girls with early puberty.Conclusion. This study demonstrated the disturbance effect of objectively examined early pubertal timing on HPA axis responses. It also suggested that stress reactivity might be blunted for individuals with depressive symptoms.
Passivity Analysis of Complex Delayed Dynamical Networks with Output Coupling
Authors: Kang Yan-Fang , Fang Lu-Xian , Zhao Yue-Hui , Ren Shun-Yan
Published: June 2015

A new complex dynamical network model with output coupling is proposed. This paper is concerned with input passivity and output passivity of the proposed network model. By constructing new Lyapunov functionals, some sufficient conditions ensuring the input passivity and output passivity are obtained. Finally, two numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed results.
Hugan QingzhiExerts Anti-Inflammatory Effects in a Rat Model of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Tang WaiJiao , Zeng Lu , Yin JinJin , Yao YuFa , Feng LiJuan , Yao XiaoRui , Sun XiaoMin , Zhou BenJie
Published: June 2015

Ethnopharmacological Relevance. The Hugan Qingzhi tablet (HQT) is a traditional Chinese medicine used for treating NAFLD (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease). The present study evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of HQT in rats with NAFLD.Materials and Methods. HQT was administered daily to the NAFLD experimental groups. Biochemical markers, histopathological data, and oxidative stress/antioxidant biomarkers were determined. Proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β(IL-1β), tumor necrosis factorα(TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were detected by enzyme-linked immunoassay. Expressions of silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) and acetylated-nuclear-factor kappaB-p65 (Ac-NF-κB-p65) were performed by western blotting.Results. At high and moderate doses, HQT was highly effective in decreasing serum alanine aminotransferase (P<0.01), aspartate aminotransferase (P<0.01), hepatic total cholesterol (P<0.01), triglycerides (P<0.01), and free fatty acid levels (P<0.01). Moreover, high and moderate doses of HQT reduced hepatic levels of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α(P<0.01), IL-1β(P<0.01), and IL-6 (P<0.01), enhanced SIRT1 expression, and depressed Ac-NF-κB-p65 expression at protein level.Conclusions. In our NAFLD rat model, HQT exerted substantial anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, possibly involving the regulation of SIRT1 and Ac-NF-κB-p65 expression.
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4: A New Link between Diabetes Mellitus and Atherosclerosis?
Authors: Silva Júnior Wellington Santana da , Godoy-Matos Amélio Fernando de , Kraemer-Aguiar Luiz Guilherme
Published: June 2015

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has become one of the most prevalent noncommunicable diseases in the past years. It is undoubtedly associated with atherosclerosis and increased risk for cardiovascular diseases. Incretins, which are intestinal peptides secreted during digestion, are able to increase insulin secretion and its impaired function and/or secretion is involved in the pathophysiology of T2DM. Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) is an ubiquitous enzyme that regulates incretins and consequently is related to the pathophysiology of T2DM. DPP4 is mainly secreted by endothelial cells and acts as a regulatory protease for cytokines, chemokines, and neuropeptides involved in inflammation, immunity, and vascular function. In T2DM, the activity of DPP4 seems to be increased and there are a growing number ofin vitroandin vivostudies suggesting that this enzyme could be a new link between T2DM and atherosclerosis. Gliptins are a new class of pharmaceutical agents that acts by inhibiting DPP4. Thus, it is expected that gliptin represents a new pharmacological approach not only for reducing glycemic levels in T2DM, but also for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in diabetic subjects. We aimed to review the evidences that reinforce the associations between DPP4, atherosclerosis, and T2DM.
Correlation between Cohesive Energy Density, Fractional Free Volume, and Gas Transport Properties of Poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) Materials
Authors: Kubica Piotr , Wolinska-Grabczyk Aleksandra
Published: June 2015

The transport properties of the poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (EVA) materials to He, N2, O2, and CO2are correlated with two polymer molecular structure parameters, that is, cohesive energy density (CED) and fractional free volume (FFV), determined by the group contribution method. In our preceding paper, the attempt was made to approximate EVA permeability using a linear function of 1/FFV as predicted by the free volume theory. However, the deviations from this relationship appeared to be significant. In this paper, it is shown that permeation of gas molecules is controlled not only by free volume but also by the polymer cohesive energy. Moreover, the behavior of CO2was found to differ significantly from that of other gases. In this instance, the correlation is much better when diffusivity instead of permeability is taken into account in a modified transport model.
The Technological Growth in eHealth Services
Authors: Srivastava Shilpa , Pant Millie , Abraham Ajith , Agrawal Namrata
Published: June 2015

The infusion of information communication technology (ICT) into health services is emerging as an active area of research. It has several advantages but perhaps the most important one is providing medical benefits to one and all irrespective of geographic boundaries in a cost effective manner, providing global expertise and holistic services, in a time bound manner. This paper provides a systematic review of technological growth in eHealth services. The present study reviews and analyzes the role of four important technologies, namely, satellite, internet, mobile, and cloud for providing health services.
Legendre Polynomials Operational Matrix Method for Solving Fractional Partial Differential Equations with Variable Coefficients
Authors: Yang Yongqiang , Ma Yunpeng , Wang Lifeng
Published: June 2015

A numerical method for solving a class of fractional partial differential equations with variable coefficients based on Legendre polynomials is proposed. A fractional order operational matrix of Legendre polynomials is also derived. The initial equations are transformed into the products of several matrixes by using the operational matrix. A system of linear equations is obtained by dispersing the coefficients and the products of matrixes. Only a small number of Legendre polynomials are needed to acquire a satisfactory result. Results obtained using the scheme presented here show that the numerical method is very effective and convenient for solving fractional partial differential equations with variable coefficients.
PML/RARα-Regulated miR-181a/b Cluster Targets the Tumor Suppressor RASSF1A in Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia
Authors: Bräuer-Hartmann Daniela , Hartmann Jens-Uwe , Wurm Alexander Arthur , Gerloff Dennis , Katzerke Christiane , Verga Falzacappa Maria Vittoria , Pelicci Pier Giuseppe , Müller-Tidow Carsten , Tenen Daniel G. , Niederwieser Dietger , Behre Gerhard
Published: June 2015

In acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) treatment induces granulocytic maturation and complete remission of leukemia. microRNAs are known to be critical players in the formation of the leukemic phenotype. In this study, we report downregulation of the miR-181a/b gene cluster in APL blasts and NB4 leukemia cells upon ATRA treatment as a key event in the drug response. We found that miR-181a/b expression was activated by the PML/RARα oncogene in cells and transgenic knock-in mice, an observation confirmed and extended by evidence of enhanced expression of miR-181a/b in APL patient specimens. RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated attenuation of miR-181a/b expression in NB4 cells was sufficient to reduce colony-forming capacity, proliferation, and survival. Mechanistic investigations revealed that miR-181a/b targets the ATRA-regulated tumor suppressor gene RASSF1A by direct binding to its 3′-untranslated region. Enforced expression of miR-181a/b or RNAi-mediated attenuation of RASSF1A inhibited ATRA-induced granulocytic differentiation via regulation of the cell-cycle regulator cyclin D1. Conversely, RASSF1A overexpression enhanced apoptosis. Finally, RASSF1A levels were reduced in PML/RARα knock-in mice and APL patient samples. Taken together, our results define miR-181a and miR-181b as oncomiRs in PML/RARα-associated APL, and they reveal RASSF1A as a pivotal element in the granulocytic differentiation program induced by ATRA in APL. Cancer Res; 75(16); 3411–24. ©2015 AACR.
Patients with Slowly Proliferative Early Breast Cancer Have Low Five-Year Recurrence Rates in a Phase III Adjuvant Trial of Capecitabine
Authors: O'Shaughnessy Joyce , Koeppen Hartmut , Xiao Yuanyuan , Lackner Mark R. , Paul Devchand , Stokoe Christopher , Pippen John , Krekow Lea , Holmes Frankie Ann , Vukelja Svetislava , Lindquist Deborah , Sedlacek Scot , Rivera Ragene , Brooks Robert , McIntyre Kristi , Brownstein Carrie , Hoersch Silke , Blum Joanne L. , Jones Stephen
Published: June 2015

Purpose: We conducted a randomized phase III study to determine whether patients with early breast cancer would benefit from the addition of capecitabine (X) to a standard regimen of doxorubicin (A) plus cyclophosphamide (C) followed by docetaxel (T).

Experimental Design: Treatment comprised eight cycles of AC→T (T dose: 100 mg/m2 on day 1) or AC→XT (X dose: 825 mg/m2 twice daily, days 1–14; T dose: 75 mg/m2 on day 1). The primary endpoint was 5-year disease-free survival (DFS).

Results: Of 2,611 women, 1,304 were randomly assigned to receive AC→T and 1,307 to receive AC→XT. After a median follow-up of 5 years, the study failed to meet its primary endpoint [HR, 0.84; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.67–1.05; P = 0.125]. A significant improvement in overall survival, a secondary endpoint, was seen with AC→XT versus AC→T (HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.51–0.92; P = 0.011). There were no unexpected adverse events. Of patients with estrogen receptor (ER)–positive/HER2-negative disease, 70% of whom were node-positive, 26% and 59% had tumors with a centrally assessed Ki-67 score of <10% or <20%, respectively, and only 17 (2%) and 53 (6%) DFS events, respectively, occurred in these groups at 7 years.

Conclusions: The very low event rate in patients with ER-positive, low Ki-67 cancers, regardless of nodal status, strongly suggests that these patients should not be enrolled in adjuvant trials that assess 5-year DFS rates and that central Ki-67 analyses can identify these patients. Clin Cancer Res; 21(19); 4305–11. ©2015 AACR.
Strengthening of Hearing Ear Representation Reduces Binaural Sensitivity in Early Single-Sided Deafness
Authors: Kral Andrej , Hubka Peter , Tillein Jochen
Published: June 2015

Single-sided deafness initiates extensive adaptations in the central auditory system, with the consequence that a stronger and a weaker ear representation develops in the auditory brain. Animal studies demonstrated that the effects are substantially stronger if the condition starts early in development. Sequential binaural cochlear implantations with longer interimplant delays demonstrate that the speech comprehension at the weaker ear is substantially compromised. A pronounced loss of the ability to extract and represent binaural localisation cues accompanies this condition, as shown in animal models.