bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lysosomal Acid Lipase Deficiency: Report of Five Cases across the Age Spectrum
Authors: Curiati Marco Antonio , Kyosen Sandra Obikawa , Pereira Vanessa Gonçalves , Patrício Francy Reis da Silva , Martins Ana Maria
Published: January 2018

Lysosomal acid lipase (LAL) deficiency is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in theLIPAgene that leads to premature organ damage and mortality. We present retrospective data from medical records of 5 Brazilian patients, showing the broad clinical spectrum of the disease.
Injected Human Muscle Precursor Cells Overexpressing PGC-1α Enhance Functional Muscle Regeneration after Trauma
Authors: Haralampieva Deana , Salemi Souzan , Betzel Thomas , Dinulovic Ivana , Krämer Stefanie D. , Schibli Roger , Sulser Tullio , Handschin Christoph , Ametamey Simon M. , Eberli Daniel
Published: January 2018

While many groups demonstrated new muscle tissue formation after muscle precursor cell (MPC) injection, the capacity of these cells to heal muscle damage, for example, sphincter in stress urinary incontinence, in long-term is still limited. Therefore, the first goal of our project was to optimize the functional regenerative potential of hMPC by genetic modification to overexpress human peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (hPGC-1α), key regulator of exercise-mediated adaptation. Moreover, we aimed at establishing a feasible methodology for noninvasive PET visualization of implanted cells and their microenvironment in muscle crush injury model. PGC-1α-bioengineered muscles showed enhanced marker expression for myogenesis (α-actinin, MyHC, and Desmin), vascularization (VEGF), neuronal (ACHE), and mitochondrial (COXIV) activity. Consistently, use of hPGC-1α_hMPCs produced significantly increased contractile force one to three weeks postinjury. PET imaging showed distinct differences in radiotracer signals ([18F]Fallypride and [11C]Raclopride (both targeting dopamine 2 receptors (D2R)) and [64Cu]NODAGA-RGD (targeting neovascularization)) between GFP_hMPCs and hD2R_hPGC-1α_hMPCs. After muscle harvesting, inflammation levels were in parallel to radiotracer uptake amount, with significantly lower uptake in hPGC-1α overexpressing samples. In summary, we facilitated early functional muscle tissue regeneration, introducing a novel approach to improve skeletal muscle regeneration. Besides successful tracking of hMPCs in muscle crush injuries, we showed that in high-inflammation areas, the specificity of radioligands might be significantly reduced, addressing a possible bottleneck of neovascularization PET imaging.
Modern Diagnostic Techniques for the Assessment of Ocular Blood Flow in Myopia: Current State of Knowledge
Authors: Grudzińska Ewa , Modrzejewska Monika
Published: January 2018

Myopia is the most common refractive error and the subject of interest of various studies assessing ocular blood flow. Increasing refractive error and axial elongation of the eye result in the stretching and thinning of the scleral, choroid, and retinal tissues and the decrease in retinal vessel diameter, disturbing ocular blood flow. Local and systemic factors known to change ocular blood flow include glaucoma, medications and fluctuations in intraocular pressure, and metabolic parameters. Techniques and tools assessing ocular blood flow include, among others, laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF), retinal function imager (RFI), laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), pulsatile ocular blood flowmeter (POBF), fundus pulsation amplitude (FPA), colour Doppler imaging (CDI), and Doppler optical coherence tomography (DOCT). Many researchers consistently reported lower blood flow parameters in myopic eyes regardless of the used diagnostic method. It is unclear whether this is a primary change that causes secondary thinning of ocular tissues or quite the opposite; that is, the mechanical stretching of the eye wall reduces its thickness and causes a secondary lower demand of tissues for oxygen. This paper presents a review of studies assessing ocular blood flow in myopes.
Determination of Phenolic Acids in Sugarcane Vinasse by HPLC with Pulse Amperometry
Authors: Freitas P. V. , da Silva D. R. , Beluomini M. A. , da Silva J. L. , Stradiotto N. R.
Published: January 2018

A reversed-phase liquid chromatographic separation with pulsed amperometric detection of phenolic acids at a glassy carbon electrode is described. Chromatographic separation was carried out in isocratic conditions using 0.20 mol·L−1acetic acid (pH 5.0)/water (80 : 20,v/v) as mobile phase under constant working potential mode of 0.80 V. Chromatographic peaks presented high resolution and separation. Calibration curves exhibited excellent correlation coefficients, above 0.995. Linear ranges of the analytes, in mg L−1, were of 0.018–18 (gallic acid), 0.146–19 (vanillic acid), 0.13–17 (caffeic acid), 0.016–16 (ferulic acid), and 0.008–17 (p-coumaric acid), respectively. Limits of detection ranged from 1.6 to 97 μg·L−1and precision varied in 1.73–3.78% interval. Concentrations of 19 ± 0.51 mg·L−1and 7.8 ± 2.5 mg·L−1were found for vanillic and caffeic acids, respectively, in a sugarcane vinasse sample. Gallic, ferulic, and p-coumaric acids were not detected. Recovery results demonstrated that the proposed method is accurate, and it can be used to detect and quantify phenolic acids in sugarcane vinasse without any influence of interferents.
Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis in a Patient with Ulcerative Colitis Flare
Authors: Conners L. M. , Ahad R. , Janda P. H. , Mudasir Z.
Published: January 2018

Inflammatory bowel disease is characterized by a chronic inflammatory state and is therefore associated with abnormalities in coagulation and a hypercoagulable state. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is a rare complication of inflammatory bowel disease yet contributes significant morbidity and mortality to those affected. Early diagnosis is critical, as a delay in diagnosis portends a worse prognosis. This paper seeks to highlight the increased risk of venous sinus thrombosis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. We start by discussing the case of a seventeen-year-old female who presented with ulcerative colitis flare and developed new-onset seizures, found to be caused by a large venous sinus thrombosis.
Effectiveness of Bilateral Superficial Cervical Plexus Block as Part of Postoperative Analgesia for Patients Undergoing Thyroidectomy in Empress Zewditu Memorial Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Aweke Zemedu , Sahile Wosenyeleh A. , Abiy Sileshi , Ayalew Nugusu , kassa Adugna A.
Published: January 2018

Introduction. The pain after thyroid surgery is considered of moderate intensity and short duration. Most trials showed significant reduction in pain intensity and severity of pain in patients for whom bilateral superficial cervical plexus block (BSCPB) was done. Objective. To assess the postoperative analgesic effect of BSCPB for thyroid surgery. Methods. Sixty six euthyroid patients were recruited and assigned to two groups (33 patients each). Group 1 BSCPB and Group 2 standard analgesia. The unpaired Student’s t-test and Mann–Whitney test were used for comparison. Statistical significance was stated at p value < 0.05. Results. The median postoperative pain score (NRS) was 3 in the BSCPB group and 5 in the control group (p=0.002). There was also statistically significant difference at 6th, 12th, and 24th hour showing a lower median pain score in the BSCPB group compared to the control group. The median time was (360 minutes) in the treatment group and (180 minutes) in the control group (p=0.0006). The median tramadol consumption within 24 hours is 0 mg in the BSCPB group compared to 100 mg in the control group (p=0.001). Conclusion and Recommendation. BSCPB done for thyroidectomy under general anesthesia decreases the postoperative pain score, total analgesia consumption, and time to first analgesia request.
Three Case Reports of Rhupus Syndrome: An Overlap Syndrome of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Devrimsel Gul , Serdaroglu Beyazal Munevver
Published: January 2018

We present the clinical and serological characteristics of three patients with rhupus. The 3 patients with rhupus presented ACR criteria for SLE as well as for RA, ANA positive with a titer of 1/100 in all patients, and positive anti-DNA in 2 of the 3 patients, with the predominance of symmetrical polyarthritis. We found anti-CCP positivity and rheumatoid factor positivity and high titers in all patients, positive anti- anti-SSA in one patient, and positive anti- anti-Sm in one patient. Renal and liver function tests were normal in all patients. The 3 patients achieved clinical remission with DMARD treatment.
Mineral and Phytochemical Profiles and Antioxidant Activity of Herbal Material from Two TemperateAstragalusSpecies
Authors: Butkutė Bronislava , Dagilytė Audronė , Benetis Raimondas , Padarauskas Audrius , Cesevičienė Jurgita , Olšauskaitė Vilma , Lemežienė Nijolė
Published: January 2018

Only a few species of the largeAstragalusgenus, widely used for medicinal purposes, have been thoroughly studied for phytochemical composition. The aim of our research was to investigate the rarely studied speciesA. glycyphyllosL. andA. cicerL. for the distribution of mineral elements and phytochemicals in whole plants at two growth stages and in morphological fractions. We also investigated the capacity of the plant extracts to scavenge 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and to chelate ferrous ions. Chemical composition and antioxidant properties depended on species, maturity, and plant part. Herbal material ofA. glycyphylloswas richer in Fe, total phenolics, and flavonoids, whereas extracts ofA. cicershowed a higher antioxidant activity. Young plants had more isoflavones, showed greater quenching of DPPH radicals, and exhibited better mineral profiles than flowering plants. Among plant parts, leaves were the most valuable plant material according to most characteristics investigated. Isoflavone concentration in flowers was lower than in leaves and stems. None of theAstragalussamples contained detectable amounts of the alkaloid swainsonine. The study demonstrates the potential of plant material from twoAstragalusspecies as a valuable source of iron, phenolic substances including isoflavones, free-radical scavengers, and Fe2+chelators for pharmaceutical use.
A Numerical Simulation Study of the Migration Law of Water-Sand Two-Phase Flow in Broken Rock Mass
Authors: Du Feng , Jiang Guanghui , Chen Zhanqing
Published: January 2018

When the upper parts of coal resources are exploited, the mining overburden separated strata may easily connect with the upper unconsolidated aquifers. This may cause the water-sand two-phase fluids in the aquifers to flow underground through the falling broken rock mass. It has been found that it is difficult to eliminate sand after it has entered a mine, which tends to severely restrict the restorations of mines and causes significant economic losses. This paper studied a seepage system dynamic model of water-sand two-phase fluids in broken rock mass based on related two-phase flow theories. In addition, using FORTRAN language, it established a numerical calculation program to study the migration law of water-sand two-phase fluids flowing into broken rock mass and determined the main influencing factors on the seepage characteristic parameters of water-sand two-phase fluids in broken rock mass and the amounts of sand losses.
Effects of Reinforcing Fiber and Microsilica on the Mechanical and Chloride Ion Penetration Properties of Latex‐Modified Fiber‐Reinforced Rapid‐Set Cement Concrete for Pavement Repair
Authors: Kim Woong , Jeon Jong-Chan , An Byung-Hwan , Lee Joo-Ha , Kim Hae-Do , Park Chan-Gi
Published: January 2018

This study evaluated the influence of reinforcement fiber type and microsilica content on the performance of latex‐modified fiber‐reinforced roller‐compacted rapid‐hardening cement concrete (LMFRCRSC) for a concrete pavement emergency repair. Experimental variables were the microsilica substitution ratio (1, 2, 3, and 4%), and the reinforcement fiber (jute versus macrosynthetic fiber). In the tests, compressive, flexural, and splitting tensile strength; chloride ion penetration resistance; and abrasion resistance were assessed. From the compressive and flexural strength tests with microsilica substitution, the 4‐hour curing strength decreased as the microsilica substitution ratio increased. From the chloride ion penetration test, as the microsilica substitution ratio increased, chloride ion penetration decreased. The abrasion resistances increased with the substitution ratio of microsilica increase. Based on these test results, microsilica at a substitution ratio of 3% or less and macrosynthetic fiber as the reinforcement improved the performance of LMFRCRSC for a concrete pavement emergency repair and satisfied all of the target strength requirements.
Mechanism of Azalomycin F5a against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Xu Li , Xu Xuejie , Yuan Ganjun , Wang Yimin , Qu Yunqiu , Liu Erxiao
Published: January 2018

To investigate the mechanism of azalomycin F5a against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), the conductivity of MRSA suspension and the adenylate kinase activity of MRSA culture were determined with the intervention of azalomycin F5a, which were significantly increased compared to those of blank controls. This inferred that azalomycin F5a could lead to the leakage of cellular substances possibly by increasing permeability to kill MRSA. As phospholipid bilayer was mainly responsible for cell-membrane permeability, the interaction between azalomycin F5a and cell-membrane lipids was further researched by determining the anti-MRSA activities of azalomycin F5a combined with cell-membrane lipids extracted from test MRSA or with 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-glycerol (DPPG) for possible molecular targets lying in MRSA cell-membrane. The results indicated that the anti-MRSA activity of azalomycin F5a remarkably decreased when it combined with membrane lipids or DPPG. This indicated that cell-membrane lipids especially DPPG might be important targets of azalomycin F5a against MRSA.
Hypertension and Associated Factors in Rural and Urban Areas Mali: Data from the STEP 2013 Survey
Authors: Bâ Hamidou Oumar , Camara Youssouf , Menta Ichaka , Sangaré Ibrahima , Sidibé Noumou , Diall I. B. , Coulibaly Souleymane , Kéita Maiga Asmaou , Millogo Georges Rosario Christian
Published: January 2018

Background. Our study aims to estimate hypertension (HTN) prevalence and its predictors in rural and urban area. Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional population-based study involving subjects aged 15 to 65 years. Collected data (sociodemographic, blood pressure, weight, height, and blood glucose) were analyzed using SPSS version 20. A logistic regression was conducted to look for factors associated with HTN. Results. Mean was 47 years. High blood pressure (HBP) prevalence was 21.1 and 24.7%, respectively, in rural and urban setting. In rural area age group significantly predicted hypertension with age of 60 years having more-than-4-times risk of hypertension, whereas, in urban area age group, sex and body mass index were predictors with OR: HTN raising from 2.06 [1.24–3.43] for 30–44 years old to 7.25 [4.00–13.13] for 60 years and more using <30 years as reference. Female sex was protective with OR of 0.45 [0.29–0.71] and using normal weight as reference OR for overweight was 1.54 [1.04–2.27] and 2.67 [1.64–4.36] for obesity. Conclusion. Hypertension prevalence is high and associated factors were age group in rural area and age group, female sex, and body mass index in urban area.
Application and Development of an Environmentally Friendly Blast Hole Plug for Underground Coal Mines
Authors: Yang Donghui , Zhao Yixin , Ning Zhangxuan , Lv Zhaoheng , Luo Huafeng
Published: January 2018

Drilling and blasting technology is one of the main methods for pressure relief in deep mining. The traditional method for blasting hole blockage with clay stemming has many problems, which include a large volume of transportation, excess loading time, and high labor intensity. An environmentally friendly blast hole plug was designed and developed. This method is cheap, closely blocks the hole, is quickly loaded, and is convenient for transportation. The impact test on the plug was carried out using an improved split Hopkinson pressure bar test system, and the industrial test was carried out in underground tunnel of coal mine. The tests results showed that, compared with clay stemming, the new method proposed in this paper could prolong the action time of the detonation gas, prevent premature detonation gas emissions, reduce the unit consumption of explosives, improve the utilization ratio, reduce the labor intensity of workers, and improve the effect of rock blasting with low cost of rock breaking.
Heteroclinic Bifurcation Behaviors of a Duffing Oscillator with Delayed Feedback
Authors: Wen Shao-Fang , Chen Ju-Feng , Guo Shu-Qi
Published: January 2018

The heteroclinic bifurcation and chaos of a Duffing oscillator with forcing excitation under both delayed displacement feedback and delayed velocity feedback are studied by Melnikov method. The Melnikov function is analytically established to detect the necessary conditions for generating chaos. Through the analysis of the analytical necessary conditions, we find that the influences of the delayed displacement feedback and delayed velocity feedback are separable. Then the influences of the displacement and velocity feedback parameters on heteroclinic bifurcation and threshold value of chaotic motion are investigated individually. In order to verify the correctness of the analytical conditions, the Duffing oscillator is also investigated by numerical iterative method. The bifurcation curves and the largest Lyapunov exponents are provided and compared. From the analysis of the numerical simulation results, it could be found that two types of period‐doubling bifurcations occur in the Duffing oscillator, so that there are two paths leading to the chaos in this oscillator. The typical dynamical responses, including time histories, phase portraits, and Poincare maps, are all carried out to verify the conclusions. The results reveal some new phenomena, which is useful to design or control this kind of system.
A PSO-Powell Hybrid Method to Extract Fiber Orientations from ODF
Authors: Wu Zhanxiong , Yu Xiaohui , Liu Yang , Hong Ming
Published: January 2018

High angular resolution diffusion imaging (HARDI) has opened up new perspectives for the delineation of crossing and branching fiber pathways by orientation distribution function (ODF). The fiber orientations contained in an imaging voxel are the key factor in tractography. To extract real fiber orientations from ODF, a hybrid method is proposed for computing the principal directions of ODF by combining the variation of Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm with the modified Powell algorithm. This method is comprised of the global searching ability of PSO and the powerful local optimizing of Powell search. This combination can guarantee finding all the diffusion directions without applying sliding windows and improve the accuracy and efficiency. The proposed approach was evaluated on simulated crossing-fiber datasets, Tractometer, and in vivo datasets. The results show that this method could correctly identify fiber directions under a range of noise levels. This method was compared with the state-of-the-art methods, such as modified Powell, ball-stick model, and diffusion decomposition, showing that it outperformed them. As to the multimodal voxels where different fiber populations exist, the proposed approach allows us to improve the estimation accuracy of fiber orientations from ODF. It can play a significant role in the nerve fiber tracking.
Parameter Identification of an Activated Sludge Wastewater Treatment Process Based on Particle Swarm Optimization Method
Authors: Khoja Intissar , Ladhari Taoufik , Sakly Anis , M’sahli Faouzi
Published: January 2018

The current paper is entirely devoted to show the applicability of Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm as a parameter identification method for a representative model of an Activated Sludge Wastewater Treatment Process (ASWWTP) with alternating phases. The model of identification is composed of two linear submodels: one for the aerobic phase and the other for the anoxic phase. In order to prove the efficiency of the proposed method, its performance is compared with another classical method called Simplex Search Algorithm (SSA) as well as with the experimental data.
Association between Helicobacter pylori Infection and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Single-Center Clinical Study
Authors: Cai Ou , Huang Zhenpeng , Li Ming , Zhang Chaoqun , Xi Fengbo , Tan Shiyun
Published: January 2018

Objective. To investigate the association between Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Methods. Data from 2051 participants who underwent 13C urea breath test and abdominal ultrasound examinations was collected. Participants were allocated to NAFLD risk group and NAFLD nonrisk group based on definite risk factors for NAFLD. The relationship between H. pylori infection and NAFLD was analyzed. Results. No significant difference was found between rates of H. pylori infection and NAFLD using the chi-square test (P=0.30) or regression analysis (P=0.70). There was no significant difference between rates of H. pylori infection with and without NAFLD (P=0.47) in the NAFLD risk group or in the NAFLD nonrisk group (P=0.59). There was no significant difference between rates of H. pylori infection in men (P=0.69) and in women (P=0.27) or in participants aged 18–40 years (P=0.43), 41–65 years (P=0.14), and ≥66 years (P=0.66) with and without NAFLD in the NAFLD risk group or between the same sex or age groups (P=0.82, P=0.66, P=0.24, P=0.53, and P=1.00, resp.) in the NAFLD nonrisk group. Conclusions. H. pylori infection does not appear to increase the NAFLD prevalence rate or to be associated with, or a risk factor for, NAFLD.
Cooperative Evolutionary Game and Applications in Construction Supplier Tendency
Authors: Shi Qianqian , Zhu Jianbo , Li Qian
Published: January 2018

Major construction projects have a great influence on the national economy and society, wherein cooperative relationship between construction suppliers plays an increasingly significant role in the overall supply chain system. However, the relationships between suppliers are noncontractual, multistage, dynamic, and complicated. To gain a deeper insight into the suppliers’ cooperative relationships, an evolutionary game model is developed to explore the cooperation tendency of multisuppliers. A replicator dynamic system is further formulated to investigate the evolutionary stable strategies of multisuppliers. Then, fourteen “when‐then” type scenarios are concluded and classified into six different evolutionary tracks. Meanwhile, the critical influencing factors are identified. The results show that the suppliers’ production capacity, owner‐supplier contract, and the owner’s incentive mechanism influence the cooperation tendency of suppliers directly. The managerial implications contribute to insightful references for a more stable cooperative relationship between the owner and suppliers.
Shiftwork-Mediated Disruptions of Circadian Rhythms and Sleep Homeostasis Cause Serious Health Problems
Authors: Khan Suliman , Duan Pengfei , Yao Lunguang , Hou Hongwei
Published: January 2018

Shiftwork became common during the last few decades with the growing demands of human life. Despite the social inactivity and irregularity in habits, working in continuous irregular shifts causes serious health issues including sleep disorders, psychiatric disorders, cancer, and metabolic disorders. These health problems arise due to the disruption in circadian clock system, which is associated with alterations in genetic expressions. Alteration in clock controlling genes further affects genes linked with disorders including major depression disorder, bipolar disorder, phase delay and phase advance sleep syndromes, breast cancer, and colon cancer. A diverse research work is needed focusing on broad spectrum changes caused by jet lag in brain and neuronal system. This review is an attempt to motivate the researchers to conduct advanced studies in this area to identify the risk factors and mechanisms. Its goal is extended to make the shift workers aware about the risks associated with shiftwork.
Ingested Foreign Body Migration to the Liver: An Unusual Cause of Persistent Abdominal Pain in a 54-Year-Old Female
Authors: Lucerna Alan , Espinosa James , Schuitema Kelly , Hertz Risha
Published: January 2018

Abdominal pain is a common presentation in emergency medicine. We describe the case of a 54-year-old female who presented to the emergency department due to worsening abdominal pain. She had a history of right upper quadrant (RUQ) abdominal pain that had been ongoing for several months. The pain had been thought by the primary care team to be related to gastritis and she had been prescribed a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Her abdominal pain increased in the three days prior to her presentation to the emergency department (ED). The computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen showed a foreign body (FB) in the liver which was successfully removed surgically. Pathology results showed that the FB was consistent with a small bone fragment. Ingestions of FB are common but seldom result in complications. When complications do arise, perforation of a hollow viscous is typically seen. Rarely, transmigration of the FB can occur.
Impact of Osmotic Distillation on the Sensory Properties and Quality of Low Alcohol Beer
Authors: Loredana Liguori , Giovanni De Francesco , Donatella Albanese , Antonio Mincione , Giuseppe Perretti , Marisa Di Matteo , Paola Russo
Published: January 2018

The production of low alcohol beer (LAB) with a full and well-balanced flavour is still now a complex challenge because of the different flavour profile they have compared to regular beers. In this study, a brown ale beer was used to obtain a low alcohol beer by osmotic distillation in a small pilot plant. Beer-diluted carbonated solutions were used as strippers and were taken under flux of CO2in order to contrast loss of volatiles from beer during the process. A forced carbonation was applied on LAB to avoid the foam collapse. Furthermore, hop extract and pectin solution were added to LAB to improve the overall taste and body. Results highlighted an improvement into retention of volatiles probably due to the use of carbonated solutions such as strippers. The forced carbonation and the addition of pectins ensured both a higher concentration of dissolved CO2and a higher stability of foam in LAB. The antioxidant activity of beer remained unchanged. The sensory analysis highlighted differences among low alcohol beer and original one. The addition of hop extract and pectin solution to LAB better maintained hop and fruity-citrus notes during tasting, compared with the original beer.
Autophagy in Stem Cell Biology: A Perspective on Stem Cell Self-Renewal and Differentiation
Authors: Chen Xihang , He Yunfan , Lu Feng
Published: January 2018

Autophagy is a highly conserved cellular process that degrades modified, surplus, or harmful cytoplasmic components by sequestering them in autophagosomes which then fuses with the lysosome for degradation. As a major intracellular degradation and recycling pathway, autophagy is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis, as well as for remodeling during normal development. Impairment of this process has been implicated in various diseases, in the pathogenic response to bacterial and viral infections, and in aging. Pluripotent stem cells, with their ability to self-replicate and to give rise to any specialized cell type, are very valuable resources for cell-based medical therapies and open a number of promising avenues for studying human development and disease. It has been suggested that autophagy is vital for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis in stem cells, and subsequently more in-depth knowledge about the regulation of autophagy in stem cell biology has been acquired recently. In this review, we describe the most significant advances in the understanding of autophagy regulation in hematopoietic and mesenchymal stem cells, as well as in induced pluripotent stem cells. In particular, we highlight the roles of various autophagy activities in the regulation of self-renewal and differentiation of these stem cells.
Inter- and Intraspecific Variations in the Pectoral Muscles of Common Chimpanzees(Pan troglodytes), Bonobos(Pan paniscus), and Humans(Homo sapiens)
Authors: Potau J. M. , Arias-Martorell J. , Bello-Hellegouarch G. , Casado A. , Pastor J. F. , de Paz F. , Diogo R.
Published: January 2018

We have analyzed anatomic variations in the pectoralis major and pectoralis minor muscles of common chimpanzees(Pan troglodytes)and bonobos(Pan paniscus)and compared them to anatomic variations in these muscles in humans(Homo sapiens). We have macroscopically dissected these muscles in six adultPan troglodytes, fivePan paniscusof ages ranging from fetus to adult, and five adultHomo sapiens. AlthoughPan troglodytesare thought to lack a separate pectoralis abdominis muscle, we have identified this muscle in three of thePan troglodytes; none of thePan paniscus, however, had this muscle. We have also found deep supernumerary fascicles in the pectoralis major of twoPan troglodytesand all fivePan paniscus. In all sixPan troglodytes, the pectoralis minor was inserted at the supraspinatus tendon, while, inPan paniscusandHomo sapiens, it was inserted at the coracoid process of the scapula. Some of the anatomic features and variations of these muscles in common chimpanzees and bonobos are similar to those found in humans, therefore enhancing our knowledge of primate comparative anatomy and evolution and also shedding light on several clinical issues.
Basic Ionic Liquid as Catalyst in Synthesis of Dimethyl 4-(2-(2,6-Bis(methoxycarbonyl)pyridine-4-yl)vinyl)pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylate
Authors: Liu Xiaobing , Hu Yulin , Fu Wei
Published: January 2018

In the lanthanide complexes with some organic ligands, the use of pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylic acid derivatives as sensitizers was better than using others. In this paper, dimethyl 4-(2-(2,6-bis(methoxycarbonyl)pyridine-4-yl)vinyl)pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylate (DVDPA) was synthesized starting from dimethyl 4-(chloromethyl)pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylate (CMDPA) catalyzed by ionic liquid [bmim]OH. The results indicated that the catalytic system presented the highest catalytic activity in the case of 60°C and 40 min and DVDPA yield of 83% can be obtained when ionic liquid dosage is 10% of reactant. The ionic liquid [bmim]OH can be recycled five times without obviously decreasing the catalytic activity after vacuum drying dehydration and the stability of the yield of DVDPA can be maintained.
Prognostic Roles of mRNA Expression of S100 in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Liu Ying , Cui Jian , Tang Yun-Liang , Huang Liang , Zhou Cong-Yang , Xu Ji-Xiong
Published: January 2018

The S100 protein family is involved in cancer cell invasion and metastasis, but its prognostic value in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has not been elucidated. In the present study we investigated the prognostic role of mRNA expression of each individual S100 in NSCLC patients through the Kaplan–Meier plotter (KM plotter) database. Expression of 14 members of the S100 family correlated with overall survival (OS) for all NSCLC patients; 18 members were associated with OS in adenocarcinoma, but none were associated with OS in squamous cell carcinoma. In particular, high mRNA expression level of S100B was associated with better OS in NSCLC patients. The prognostic value of S100 according to smoking status, pathological grades, clinical stages, and chemotherapeutic treatment of NSCLC was further assessed. Although the results should be further verified in clinical trials our findings provide new insights into the prognostic roles of S100 proteins in NSCLC and might promote development of S100-targeted inhibitors for the treatment of NSCLC.
Molecular Markers Increase Precision of the European Association of Urology Non–Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer Progression Risk Groups
Authors: van Kessel Kim E.M. , van der Keur Kirstin A. , Dyrskjøt Lars , Algaba Ferran , Welvaart Naeromy Y.C. , Beukers Willemien , Segersten Ulrika , Keck Bastian , Maurer Tobias , Simic Tatjana , Horstmann Marcus , Grimm Marc-Oliver , Hermann Gregers G. , Mogensen Karin , Hartmann Arndt , Harving Niels , Petersen Astrid C. , Jensen Jørgen B. , Junker Kerstin , Boormans Joost L. , Real Francisco X. , Malats Núria , Malmström Per-Uno , Ørntoft Torben F. , Zwarthoff Ellen C.
Published: January 2018

Purpose: The European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines for non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) recommend risk stratification based on clinicopathologic parameters. Our aim was to investigate the added value of biomarkers to improve risk stratification of NMIBC.

Experimental Design: We prospectively included 1,239 patients in follow-up for NMIBC in six European countries. Fresh-frozen tumor samples were analyzed for GATA2, TBX2, TBX3, and ZIC4 methylation and FGFR3, TERT, PIK3CA, and RAS mutation status. Cox regression analyses identified markers that were significantly associated with progression to muscle-invasive disease. The progression incidence rate (PIR = rate of progression per 100 patient-years) was calculated for subgroups.

Results: In our cohort, 276 patients had a low, 273 an intermediate, and 555 a high risk of tumor progression based on the EAU NMIBC guideline. Fifty-seven patients (4.6%) progressed to muscle-invasive disease. The limited number of progressors in this large cohort compared with older studies is likely due to improved treatment in the past two decades. Overall, wild-type FGFR3 and methylation of GATA2 and TBX3 were significantly associated with progression (HR = 0.34, 2.53, and 2.64, respectively). The PIR for EAU high-risk patients was 4.25. On the basis of FGFR3 mutation status and methylation of GATA2, this cohort could be reclassified into a good class (PIR = 0.86, 26.2% of patients), a moderate class (PIR = 4.32, 49.7%), and a poor class (PIR = 7.66, 24.0%).

Conclusions: We conclude that the addition of selected biomarkers to the EAU risk stratification increases its accuracy and identifies a subset of NMIBC patients with a very high risk of progression. Clin Cancer Res; 24(7); 1586–93. ©2018 AACR.
Comparing a Right- Versus Left-Side Approach in Laparoscopy-Assisted D2 Radical Gastrectomies in Overweight Patients with Gastric Cancer: A Retrospective Case-Controlled Study
Authors: Huang Zhengjie , Liu Gang , Cai Huali , Ye Yongzhi , Xiao Rui , Xiong Disheng , You Jun , Luo Qi
Published: January 2018

Background: The safety and efficacy of the surgical path used in laparoscopy-assisted radical gastrectomies (LARGs) is still unknown in obese patients. This study aimed to compare the value of a right-side (R-LARG) versus a left-side (L-LARG) approach in LARGs in overweight patients (defined as a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2). Methods: 213 patients with gastric cancer were divided into 2 groups: an overweight group and a normal-weight group (BMI < 25 kg/m2). Clinical characteristics and perioperative outcomes were compared in the 2 groups. Results: In the overweight group, patients who underwent R-LARG had a shorter operating time (204 ± 15 vs. 248 ± 21 min), less intraoperative blood loss (66 ± 8 vs. 78 ± 7 ml), less painkiller usage (2.0 ± 0.2 vs. 2.5 ± 0.3 days), shorter time to mobility (2.1 ± 0.3 vs. 2.7 ± 0.5 days), faster recovery of peristalsis (3.4 ± 0.3 vs. 4.1 ± 0.5 days) and more lymph node dissection per patient (37 ± 4 vs. 31 ± 2) compared with the patients who underwent L-LARG. No statistically significant differences in postoperative complications (11.9% vs. 10.8%), postoperative hospital stays or hospitalization expenses were found between the groups. In the normal-weight group, perioperative outcomes were similar between the R-LARG and L-LARG groups. Conclusion: R-LARG has obvious advantages in overweight patients with gastric cancer.
Modelling Population Viability of Three Independent Javan Gibbon (Hylobates moloch) Populations on Java, Indonesia
Authors: Smith Jaima Hillary , King Tony , Campbell Clare , Cheyne Susan M. , Nijman Vincent
Published: January 2018

Population viability analysis is a predictive procedure that uses a combination of different modelling approaches to estimate species vulnerability to extinction. Javan gibbons (Hylobates moloch) are vulnerable to local extinction primarily due to loss of habitat and hunting for the illegal pet trade. Using the modelling software VORTEX, we assessed the status of Javan gibbons in 3 areas (Ujung Kulon National Park, Halimun-Salak National Park, and Dieng Mountains) which hold over half of the remaining estimated number of gibbons on Java. Ujung Kulon and Halimun-Salak are long-time protected areas, whereas Dieng Mountains remain unprotected. For each area, we calculated the probability of extinction over a 100-year time period by testing different area-specific scenarios (e.g., hunting, deforestation, and increase in carrying capacity). Our modelling suggests each of the populations has a high chance of becoming extinct within the next 100 years if hunting and deforestation persist. If these threats are eliminated, the model shows each of the populations are large enough to persist in the long term whilst maintaining high levels of current genetic diversity. We conclude that specific actions should be implemented to develop more inclusive conservation management practices, especially improving awareness regarding the illegal wildlife trade and increased protection of wild populations and their habitats.
Cerebral Cavernous Malformations: An Update on Prevalence, Molecular Genetic Analyses, and Genetic Counselling
Authors: Spiegler Stefanie , Rath Matthias , Paperlein Christin , Felbor Ute
Published: January 2018

Based on the latest gnomAD dataset, the prevalence of symptomatic hereditary cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) prone to cause epileptic seizures and stroke-like symptoms was re-evaluated in this review and calculated to be 1:5,400-1:6,200. Furthermore, state-of-the-art molecular genetic analyses of the known CCM loci are described which reach an almost 100% mutation detection rate for familial CCMs if whole genome sequencing is performed for seemingly mutation-negative families. An update on the spectrum of CCM1, CCM2, and CCM3 mutations demonstrates that deep-intronic mutations and submicroscopic copy-number neutral genomic rearrangements are rare. Finally, this review points to current guidelines on genetic counselling, neuroimaging, medical as well as neurosurgical treatment and highlights the formation of active patient organizations in various countries.
Change of Peripheral Blood Treg/Thl7 in Cognitive Impairment with Chronic Renal Failure Patients
Authors: Wang Jie , Li Xue-Bin , Huang Peng , Huang Mei-Ying , Gu Xian-Jun
Published: January 2018

Background/Aims: To investigate the changes in peripheral blood Treg/Th17 cell balance and its significance in patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) and cognitive impairment. Methods: A total of 71 patients with CRF were enrolled as a study group. The patients were divided into a cognitive impairment group and a normal cognitive function group according to the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Peripheral blood Treg and Th17 cells were analyzed by flow cytometry and their relevant cytokines (IL-17, IL-10 and TGF-β) and other biochemical indicators, including C-reactive protein (CRP) and IL-6, were determined by ELISA. Results: Thepatients with both CRF and cognitive impairment were older than the cognitive normal groups. Peripheral blood Treg cells by Flow cytometry (the CRF cognitive impairment group 5.57±1.3%, CRF group with normal cognitive function 7.5 ± 0.9% and normal control group 9.7 ± 1.7%,P<0.05) and its related cytokines (IL-10 and TGF-β) by ELISA detection were lower in the group with cognitive impairment than in the group without cognitive impairment ( IL-10, 7.4±4.2 pg/mL, 13.8±3.9 pg/mL, 18.3±3.2 pg/mL; TGF-β 335.6±175.3 pg/mL, 512.7 ± 114.6 pg/mL, 953.8±373.4 pg/mL P < 0.05, respectively).However, Th17 cell numbers (the CRF cognitive impairment group 3.3 ± 0.7%, CRF group with normal cognitive function2.2 ± 0.5% and normal control group 1.5 ± 0.3%),and cytokine levels (IL-17, IL-6 and CRP) were higher in the group with cognitive impairment IL-6 (21.3 ± 5.1 pg/mL), IL-17 (18.5 ± 4.2 pg/mL) and CRP (20.3 ± 5.9 mg/L) in the CRF group with cognitive impairment when compared with the CRF group and normal cognitive function (12.2 ± 4.5 pg/mL, 12.1 ± 3.7 pg/mL and 13.5 ± 4.6 mg/L, respectively) or the normal control group (9.2 ± 5.8 pg/mL, 7.4 ± 2.6 pg/mL and 3.2 ± 1.3 mg/L, respectively, P<0.05). The frequencies of Treg in patients with CRF were positively correlated with the MMSE scores ((r = 0.518, P < 0.05), but the Th17 numbers were negatively correlated (r = -0.435, P < 0.05). Conclusion: An imbalance of peripheral blood Treg/Th17 cells is associated with cognitive impairment in patients with CRF.
The Role of Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Colorectal Carcinoma Progression
Authors: Zhong Xiaoming , Chen Bin , Yang Zhiwen
Published: January 2018

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are one of the most abundant immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, and they play a pivotal role in prompting the various tumor growth. However, the role of TAMs in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is controversial, because a few papers report that TAMs is beneficial to CRC patients. In this review, we discuss the good or bad roles of TAMs in CRC progression. Interestingly, recent studies provide strong evidence that TAMs facilitate CRC growth, but do not exert tumor suppressive activities. TAMs can stimulate CRC growth by altering extracellular matrix remodeling, tumor metabolism, angiogenesis, as well as the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, TAMs could serve as a target for CRC therapeutic treatment.
Impact of Cardiac Progenitor Cells on Heart Failure and Survival in Single Ventricle Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Sano Toshikazu , Ousaka Daiki , Goto Takuya , Ishigami Shuta , Hirai Kenta , Kasahara Shingo , Ohtsuki Shinichi , Sano Shunji , Oh Hidemasa
Published: January 2018

Rationale:

Intracoronary administration of cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs) in patients with single ventricles resulted in a short-term improvement in cardiac function.

Objective:

To test the hypothesis that CDC infusion is associated with improved cardiac function and reduced mortality in patients with heart failure.

Methods and Results:

We evaluated the effectiveness of CDCs using an integrated cohort study in 101 patients with single ventricles, including 41 patients who received CDC infusion and 60 controls treated with staged palliation alone. Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (EF) or reduced EF was stratified by the cardiac function after surgical reconstruction. The main outcome measure was to evaluate the magnitude of improvement in cardiac function and all-cause mortality at 2 years. Animal studies were conducted to clarify the underlying mechanisms of heart failure with preserved EF and heart failure with reduced EF phenotypes. At 2 years, CDC infusion increased ventricular function (stage 2: +8.4±10.0% versus +1.6±6.4%,
P
=0.03; stage 3: +7.9±7.5% versus −1.1±5.5%,
P
<0.001) compared with controls. In all available follow-up data, survival did not differ between the 2 groups (log-rank
P
=0.225), whereas overall patients treated by CDCs had lower incidences of late failure (
P
=0.022), adverse events (
P
=0.013), and catheter intervention (
P
=0.005) compared with controls. CDC infusion was associated with a lower risk of adverse events (hazard ratio, 0.411; 95% CI, 0.179–0.942;
P
=0.036). Notably, CDC infusion reduced mortality (
P
=0.038) and late complications (
P
<0.05) in patients with heart failure with reduced EF but not with heart failure with preserved EF. CDC-treated rats significantly reversed myocardial fibrosis with differential collagen deposition and inflammatory responses between the heart failure phenotypes.

Conclusions:

CDC administration in patients with single ventricles showed favorable effects on ventricular function and was associated with reduced late complications except for all-cause mortality after staged procedures. Patients with heart failure with reduced EF but not heart failure with preserved EF treated by CDCs resulted in significant improvement in clinical outcome.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifiers: NCT01273857 and NCT01829750.
Albuminuria Increases the Risks for Both Alzheimer Disease and Vascular Dementia in Community‐Dwelling Japanese Elderly: The Hisayama Study
Authors: Takae Keita , Hata Jun , Ohara Tomoyuki , Yoshida Daigo , Shibata Mao , Mukai Naoko , Hirakawa Yoichiro , Kishimoto Hiro , Tsuruya Kazuhiko , Kitazono Takanari , Kiyohara Yutaka , Ninomiya Toshiharu
Published: January 2018

Background

Epidemiologic evidence has emerged to reveal an association of albuminuria and low estimated glomerular filtration rate (
eGFR
) with dementia, but the findings are inconsistent. In addition, there are limited studies addressing the association between albuminuria and Alzheimer disease (
AD
).

Methods and Results

A total of 1562 community‐dwelling Japanese subjects aged ≥60 years without dementia were followed up for 10 years. The outcomes were incidence of all‐cause dementia and its subtypes, namely,
AD
and vascular dementia (VaD). The hazard ratios for the outcomes were estimated according to urine albumin–creatinine ratio (
UACR
) and
eGFR
levels using a Cox proportional hazards model. During the follow‐up, 358 subjects developed all‐cause dementia (238
AD
and 93 VaD). Higher
UACR
level was significantly associated with greater multivariable‐adjusted risks of all‐cause dementia (hazard ratios [95% confidence intervals]: 1.00 [reference], 1.12 [0.78–1.60], 1.65 [1.18–2.30], and 1.56 [1.11–2.19] for
UACR
of ≤6.9, 7.0–12.7, 12.8–29.9, and ≥30.0 mg/g, respectively),
AD
(1.00 [reference], 1.20 [0.77–1.86], 1.75 [1.16–2.64], and 1.58 [1.03–2.41], respectively), and VaD (1.00 [reference], 1.03 [0.46–2.29], 1.94 [0.96–3.95], and 2.19 [1.09–4.38], respectively). On the other hand, lower
eGFR
level was marginally associated with greater risk of VaD, but not
AD
. Subjects with
UACR
≥12.8 mg/g and
eGFR
of <60 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
had 3.3‐fold greater risk of VaD than those with
UACR
<12.8 mg/g and
eGFR
of ≥60 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
.

Conclusions

Albuminuria is a significant risk factor for the development of both
AD
and VaD in community‐dwelling Japanese elderly. Moreover, albuminuria and low
eGFR
are mutually associated with a greater risk of VaD.