bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Manipulations to Restore Aberrant Myelopoiesis: The Role of New Colony‐Stimulating Factors and other Agents
Authors: Rusthoven James J
Published: May 2016

A rapidly growing number of new recombinant human colony‐stimulating factors (CSFs) are entering various phases of
clinical testing. With the recent approval of granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) and granulocytemacrophage
colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) for clinical use, newer CSFs will be developed for a
widening spectrum of disease states singularly and in combination with other CSFs. Interleukin (IL)‐3 is being tested in early clinical trials, and combination studies with G‐CSF and GM‐CSF are to follow soon.
lL‐6 presently is in animal model testing, but already shows promise of amplifying the restorative
capabilities of IL‐3. IL‐4 , GM‐CSF and others. As a single agent, IL‐6 may be instrumental in clarifying
disease processes and therapeutics in diseases ranging from multiple myeloma to glomerulonephritis.
Agents such as WR‐2721 which appear to protect early progenitors with or without proliferative effects
likely will add another dimension to the therapeutic alternatives for restoring aberrant myelopoiesis. The
range of potential clinical application for new CSFs rapidly is expanding beyond oncology to include diseases
where infection prevention or therapy against established infection is the prime target of treatment.
Interleukin‐1, Tumour Necrosis Factor and Treatment of the Septic Shock Syndrome
Authors: Dinarello Charles A
Published: May 2016

Treating the septic shock syndrome with antibodies that
block only endotoxin has its limitations. Other targets for treating septic shock include neutralizing
antibodies to the complement fragment C5a, platelet activating factor antagonists and blockade of
endothelial cell leukocyte adhesion molecules. Specific blockade of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines
interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) or tumour necrosis factor (TNF) reduces the morbidity and mortality associated with
septic shock. Moreover, blocking IL‐1 and TNF likely has uses in treating diseases other than septic shock.
Use of neutralizing antibodies to TNF or IL‐1 receptors has reduced the consequences of infection and
inflammation, including lethal outcomes in animal models. The IL‐1 receptor antagonist, a naturally
occurring cytokine, blocks shock and death due to Escherichia coli as well as ameliorates a variety of
inflammatory diseases. Soluble TNF and IL‐1 surface receptors, which bind their respective cytokines. also
ameliorate disease processes. Clinical trials are presently evaluating the safety and efficacy of anticytokine
therapies either alone or in combination.
An Historic Overview of Biological Response Modifiers as Antiviral Agents
Authors: Morahan Page S , Pinto Aangelo J
Published: May 2016

A wide variety ofimmunomodulators/biological response modifiers
(BRMs) has been demonstrated to provide broad spectrum antiviral activity against both RNA and DNA
viruses in several animal species. Dramatic decreases in mortality, reduced virus titres in tissues and
reduced histopathology can be produced. The antivirally effective agents include microbially derived
materials, polyanions, cytokines and chemically diverse small molecular weight chemicals. The greatest
protective effects are observed with prophylactic treatment. although early therapeutic treatment can also
be effective. Little direct antiviral activity can be observed in vitro. The findings suggest induction by BRMs
of antiviral mediators in vivo early in the course of viral pathogenesis, before the virus has become
sequestered in a privileged site or too much infectious virus has been produced for natural resistance to
have an impact, immunomodulators are pleiotropic in their immunomodulatory effects, and it has been
difficult to establish whether one cell type or mediator is critical for the observed broad spectrum antiviral
activity. Therefore, the mechanisms of antiviral action of immunomodulators remain unclear for most
systems, but probably involve enhancement of natural immune responses. While no unified antiviral
mechanism among different immunomodulators has yet emerged, interferon induction remains a major
hypothesis.
Prophylaxis of Cytomegalovirus in Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: MacDonald Allan S , Nicol David L , Belitsky Philip , Lee Spencer
Published: May 2016

The incidence and outcome of cytomegalovirus
(CMV) infection and disease is compared in renal transplant recipients in relation lo the use of prophylaxis
wiU1 high titre anti‐CMV immunoglobulin. Seventy‐three CMV‐negative recipients (R‐) who received kidneys
from CMV‐posilive donors (D+) were given prophylactic CMV hyperimmune globulin inlravenously al
three‐week intervals lo six monilis. They also received Lhree months of oral low dose acyclovir as did the
remaining 288 patients who did nol receive hyperimmune globulin. There was a low incidence of CMV
disease which did not differ between groups (D+R‐, 10%: D+R+, 5 .5%, D‐ R+, 7%: D‐ R‐, 0.8%). The major
risk factor was the use of OKT3 to treat rejection. CMV disease was seen in 22% of this group (11 of 50) .
compared with only 2% (seven of 311) of those not requiring OKT3. There was only one CMV‐related death.
but palients with CMV disease had a reduced graft survival rate (62% versus 90%). CMV hyperimmune
globulin added lo acyclovir appears to reduce the incidence of CMV disease in high risk renal recipients
(D+R‐) in the lower risk groups.
Montelukast as Add-On Therapy with Inhaled Corticosteroids Alone or Inhaled Corticosteroids and Long-Acting Beta-2-Agonists in the Management of Patients Diagnosed with Asthma and Concurrent Allergic Rhinitis (the RADAR Trial)
Authors: Keith Paul K , Koch Caroline , Djandji Michel , Bouchard Jacques , Psaradellis Eliofotisti , Sampalis John S , Schellenberg R Robert , McIvor R Andrew
Published: May 2016

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of montelukast as add-on therapy for patients diagnosed with asthma and concurrent allergic rhinitis who remain uncontrolled while receiving inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) monotherapy or ICS/long-acting beta-2-agonist (LABA) therapy in a community practice setting.

DESIGN: An eight-week, multicentre, open-label, observational study. Patients were 15 years of age or older and, while treated with an ICS or ICS/LABA, had allergic rhinitis and uncontrolled asthma symptoms by at least two criteria as per the Canadian Asthma Consensus Guidelines. The primary outcome measure was the percentage of patients with controlled asthma symptoms after eight weeks of treatment with montelukast 10 mg once daily added to ICS or ICS/LABA therapy.

RESULTS: In total, 1004 patients participated in the survey phase of the study. Of these patients, 319 continued in the treatment phase and 301 (94.4%) completed the eight-week assessment. At baseline, all patients had uncontrolled asthma symptoms based on the Canadian Asthma Consensus Guidelines; at the eight-week assessment, 229 patients (76.1%) achieved asthma control. According to the Asthma Control Questionnaire (as determined by scores of 0.75 or less), 164 patients (54.7%) achieved well-controlled asthma at week 8. The mean (± SD) Asthma Control Questionnaire score decreased from 2.03±0.80 to 0.92±0.80 (P<0.001) for all patients, representing a clinically significant improvement. A statistically and clinically significant reduction in the overall Mini Rhinitis Quality of Life Questionnaire score was achieved with a decrease from 2.57±1.20 to 1.12±1.00 (–1.45±1.35; P<0.001). Patient and physician satisfaction rates with montelukast add-on therapy were also significantly increased when compared with baseline treatment.

CONCLUSION: Montelukast add-on therapy is effective for managing asthma and allergic rhinitis symptoms in patients who were previously uncontrolled with ICS or ICS/LABA treatment.
The Effect of Misdetection Probability on the Performance of Cooperative-Relaying-Based Cognitive Radio Systems
Authors: Cao Ning , Ye Yuchang , Mao Minghe
Published: May 2016

Cognitive radio (CR) is a promising solution to address the more and more congested radio spectrum. Cooperative relaying can provide a better transmission performance for the secondary user (SU), while the performance of the primary user (PU, also named licensed user) should be preferentially protected especially when there is misdetection probability. In this paper, in order to keep the PU away from outage caused by the interference from the SU under a certain signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), the maximum SNR for the SU can be derived by using the rate decaying factor (RDF). Then, based on the maximum channel gain and the maximum SNR, the outage probability is analyzed using decode-and-forward (DF) relaying and amplify-and-forward (AF) relaying schemes. Numerical results show that the outage probability decreases when the power allocation factor increases for DF strategy, while the outage probability has error floor when the power allocation factor increases for AF strategy. And the relaying scheme based on the maximum channel gain outperforms that based on the maximum SNR when the power allocation factor and detection probability are small, while the relaying scheme based on the maximum SNR outperforms that based on the maximum channel gain when the power allocation factor is large. What is more, AF relaying has better outage performance in the practical implementation.
Simple Instrumental and Visual Tests for Nonlaboratory Environmental Control
Authors: Eksperiandova L. P. , Khimchenko S. V. , Stepanenko N. A. , Shcherbakov I. B.
Published: May 2016

Proposed are simple and available techniques that can be used for rapid and reliable environmental control specifically of natural water by means of instrumental and visual tests in outdoor conditions. Developed are the chemical colorimetric modes for fast detection of socially dangerous trace impurities in water such as Co(II), Pd(II), and Rh(III) as well asNO2--ions and Fe(III) serving as model impurities. Application of portable digital devices and scanner allows estimating the color coordinates and increasing the accuracy and sensitivity of the tests. The combination of complex formation with preconcentration of colored complexes replaces the sensitive but time-consuming and capricious kinetic method that is usually used for this purpose at the more convenient and reliable colorimetric method. As the test tools, the following ones are worked out: polyurethane foam tablets with sorbed colored complexes, the two-layer paper sandwich packaged in slide adapter and saturated by reagents, and polyethylene terephthalate blister with dried reagents. Fast analysis of polyurethane foam tablets is realized using a pocket digitalRGB-colorimeter or portable photometer. Express analysis of two-layer paper sandwich or polyethylene terephthalate blister is realized by visual and instrumental tests. The metrological characteristics of the developed visual and instrumental express analysis techniques are estimated.
Sensor Module Based on the Wireless Sensor Network for the Dynamic Stress on the Flexible Object with Large Deformation
Authors: Zhao Jinhui , Zhuang Yi , Gu Jingjing , Xu Yan , Sun Jian
Published: May 2016

When we are measuring the dynamic stress on flexible objects with large deformation, for example, the parachute, the morphologic structure of the tested objects changes rapidly and sharply, and the measurement is conducted in a poor and variable environment. Traditional measuring methods cannot ensure credibility, repeatability, and high precision of the test. This paper introduces stress sensor module based on the wireless sensor network for the flexible objects with large deformation. In this paper, the wireless sensor network works as the signal transmitting carrier and the Ω sensor is improved. In addition, the paper further studies the effect of module deployment on the flexible objects with large deformation and the effect of experiment environment on the sensor test. Finally, the compensation method is proposed and measurement reliability is improved. The performance experiments of the sensor verify the availability and repeatability of the dynamic sensor module. The drop experiment of the small parachute and the wind tunnel experiment prove that the sensor module can effectively measure the stress on the flexible object with large deformation and the results accord with the parachute canopy stress rule.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Pediatric Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Suvanto Maija , Jahnukainen Timo , Kestilä Marjo , Jalanko Hannu
Published: May 2016

Polymorphic variants in several molecules involved in the glomerular function and drug metabolism have been implicated in the pathophysiology of pediatric idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS), but the results remain inconsistent. We analyzed the association of eleven allelic variants in eight genes(angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4), glypican 5 (GPC5), interleukin-13 (IL-13), macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), neural nitric oxide synthetase (nNOS), multidrug resistance-1 (MDR1), glucocorticoid-induced transcript-1 (GLCCI1),andnuclear receptor subfamily-3 (NR3C1))in 100 INS patients followed up till adulthood. We genotyped variants using PCR and direct sequencing and evaluated estimated haplotypes of MDR1 variants. The analysis revealed few differences in SNP genotype frequencies between patients and controls, or in clinical parameters among the patients. Genotype distribution of MDR1 SNPs rs1236, rs2677, and rs3435 showed significant (p<0.05) association with different medication regimes (glucocorticoids only versus glucocorticoids plus additional immunosuppressives). Some marginal association was detected betweenANGPTL4,GPC5,GLCCI1,andNR3C1variants and different medication regimes, number of relapses, and age of onset.Conclusion.WhileMDR1variant genotype distribution associated with different medication regimes, the other analyzed gene variants showed only little or marginal clinical relevance in INS.
Depression among Ethiopian Adults: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Molla Getasew Legas , Sebhat Haregwoin Mulat , Hussen Zebiba Nasir , Mekonen Amsalu Belete , Mersha Wubalem Fekadu , Yimer Tesfa Mekonen
Published: May 2016

Background. Depression is one of the most common mental disorders worldwide and is the second leading cause of disability and major contributor to suicide.Methods. Community based cross-sectional study was conducted among 779 adults residing in Northwest Ethiopia. Multistage cluster sampling technique was used to select study participants. Depression was measured by Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Bivariate as well as multivariate logistic regressions were used to identify associated factors.pvalue of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Result. The prevalence of depression was 17.5%, where 10.7% of patients were with mild depression, 4.2% were with moderate depression, 1.9% were with moderately severe depression, and 0.6% had severe depression. Being female, age of 55 years and above, poor social support, having a comorbidity medical illness, current tobacco smoking, and living alone were significantly associated with depression.Conclusion and Recommendation. The prevalence of depression in Ethiopia is as common as the other lower and middle income countries. Female gender, being currently not married, poor social support, low wealth index, tobacco smoking, older age, having comorbid illness, and living alone were significantly associated with depression. So, depression is a significant public health problem that requires a great emphasis and some factors like smoking habit are modifiable.
Research on the Low Frequency Broadband Piezoelectric-Magnetostrictive Hybrid Transducer
Authors: Teng Duo , Zhu Ning
Published: May 2016

The effective ways for underwater transducer to lower its operating frequency, to broaden its bandwidth, and to develop its miniaturization are investigated. According to the theory of coupled multimode vibrations, a novel Hybrid transducer is developed. Different from the traditional Hybrid transducer, the improved point is the low frequency vibration controlled by the zigzag piezoelectric section and the high frequency vibration controlled by the one-dimensional magnetostrictive section. Through building the equivalent circuit model and finite element model, the performances of transducer will be predicted. The analysis shows that FEM is suitable for analyzing such a Hybrid underwater transducer within 5% deviation. The corresponding tests show that the volume and weight of the Hybrid transducer undergo a sharp drop after improvement. The novel Hybrid transducer has a distinct advantage in low frequency, bandwidth, and miniaturization. The prototype has the resonance at 1.82 kHz and 3.76 kHz. It can be used effectively in the bandwidth of 1.5 kHz to 5 kHz. Its main body has an external diameter of 54 mm. The whole prototype is 235 mm long and weighs 2.61 kg.
Research on Cutting Force of Turn-Milling Based on Thin-Walled Blade
Authors: Zhu Lida , Liu Baoguang , Wang Xiaobang , Xu Zhiwei
Published: May 2016

Turn-milling is regarded as the milling of a curved surface while rotating the workpiece around its center point, which combines effectively the advantages of both turning and milling, wherein it allows for good metal removal with the difficult-to-cut thin-walled workpieces in aviation. The objective of the present work is to study cutting force by turn-milling in cutting condition. Aiming at the deformation properties of thin-walled blade, the predicted models of rigid cutting force and flexible cutting force with ball cutter are provided, respectively, in turn-milling process. The deformation values of blade and cutter are calculated, respectively, based on the engaged trajectory by using the iterative algorithm. The rigid and flexible cutting forces are compared and the influence degrees of cutting parameters on cutting forces are analyzed. These conclusions provide theoretical foundation and reference for turn-milling mechanism research.
A Novel Encryption Algorithm Based on DWT and Multichaos Mapping
Authors: Wang Wei , Tan Haiyan , Pang Yu , Li Zhangyong , Ran Peng , Wu Jun
Published: May 2016

Encryption of a digital image is very important especially in applications of body area networks (BANs) since the image may include a number of privacy. Past encryption methods have disadvantages of the small key space and low ability of resistance to attack. In this paper, we propose a new encryption algorithm based on discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and multichaos which has characteristics of the deterministic, pseudorandomness, and sensitivity of initial values. The image is first decomposed and spatial reconstructed by two-dimensional DWT and then is performed by multichaos matrices for space encryption. The experimental results indicate that the proposed algorithm has a large key space, high key sensitivity, and excellent ability of resistance to attack.
A New Wavelet Threshold Function and Denoising Application
Authors: Jing-yi Lu , Hong Lin , Dong Ye , Yan-sheng Zhang
Published: May 2016

In order to improve the effects of denoising, this paper introduces the basic principles of wavelet threshold denoising and traditional structures threshold functions. Meanwhile, it proposes wavelet threshold function and fixed threshold formula which are both improved here. First, this paper studies the problems existing in the traditional wavelet threshold functions and introduces the adjustment factors to construct the new threshold function basis on soft threshold function. Then, it studies the fixed threshold and introduces the logarithmic function of layer number of wavelet decomposition to design the new fixed threshold formula. Finally, this paper uses hard threshold, soft threshold, Garrote threshold, and improved threshold function to denoise different signals. And the paper also calculates signal-to-noise (SNR) and mean square errors (MSE) of the hard threshold functions, soft thresholding functions, Garrote threshold functions, and the improved threshold function after denoising. Theoretical analysis and experimental results showed that the proposed approach could improve soft threshold functions with constant deviation and hard threshold with discontinuous function problems. The proposed approach could improve the different decomposition scales that adopt the same threshold value to deal with the noise problems, also effectively filter the noise in the signals, and improve the SNR and reduce the MSE of output signals.
Nanogravimetric and Optical Characterizations of Thrombin Interaction with a Self-Assembled Thiolated Aptamer
Authors: Politi Jane , Rea Ilaria , Nici Fabrizia , Dardano Principia , Terracciano Monica , Oliviero Giorgia , Borbone Nicola , Piccialli Gennaro , De Stefano Luca
Published: May 2016

Efficient biorecognition of thrombin (TB), a serine protease with crucial role in physiological and pathological blood coagulation, is a hot topic in medical diagnostics. In this work, we investigate the ability of synthetic thrombin aptamer (TBA), immobilized on a gold substrate, to bind thrombin by two different label-free techniques: the quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) and the spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE). By QCM characterization in the range from 20 to 110 nM, we demonstrate high specificity of TBA-TB interaction and determine affinity constant (Kd) of17.7±0.3 nM, system sensitivity of0.42±0.03 Hz nM−1, and limit of detection (LOD) of240±20 pM. The interaction between TBA and TB is also investigated by SE, an all-optical method, by quantifying the thickness increase of the TBA film assembled on gold substrate. AFM characterization of TBA and TB molecules deposited on flat silicon surface is also supplied.
On the Extremal Wiener Polarity Index of Hückel Graphs
Authors: Wang Hongzhuan
Published: May 2016

Graphs are used to model chemical compounds and drugs. In the graphs, each vertex represents an atom of molecule and edges between the corresponding vertices are used to represent covalent bounds between atoms. TheWiener polarity indexWp(G)of a graphGis the number of unordered pairs of verticesu,vofGsuch that the distance betweenuandvis equal to 3. The trees and unicyclic graphs with perfect matching, of which all vertices have degrees not greater than three, are referred to as theHückel treesandunicyclic Hückel graphs, respectively. In this paper, we first consider the smallest and the largest Wiener polarity index among all Hückel trees on2nvertices and characterize the corresponding extremal graphs. Then we obtain an upper and lower bound for the Wiener polarity index of unicyclic Hückel graphs on2nvertices.
The System Dynamics Model in Electronic Products Closed-Loop Supply Chain Distribution Network with Three-Way Recovery and the Old-for-New Policy
Authors: Zhang Xiao-qing , Yuan Xi-gang
Published: May 2016

With the technological developments and rapid changes in demand pattern, diverse varieties of electronic products are entering into the market with reduced lifecycle which leads to the environmental problems. The awareness of electronic products take-back and recovery has been increasing in electronic products supply chains. In this paper, we build a system dynamics model for electronic products closed-loop supply chain distribution network with the old-for-new policy and three electronic products recovery ways, namely, electronic products remanufacturing, electronic component reuse and remanufacturing, and electronic raw material recovery. In the simulation study, we investigate the significance of various factors including the old-for-new policy, collection and remanufacturing, their interactions and the type of their impact on bullwhip, and profitability through sensitivity analysis. Our results instruct that the old-for-new policy and three electronic products recovery ways can reduce the bullwhip effect in the retailers and the distributors and increases the profitability in the closed-loop supply chain distribution network.
Pattern of Pediatric Dermatoses in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Western Nepal
Authors: Poudyal Yogesh , Ranjit Annu , Pathak Santosh , Chaudhary Nagendra
Published: May 2016

Pediatric dermatoses are one of the most common presentations in a dermatology clinic and reflect the health and hygiene status of children. The incidence and severity of these skin lesions are influenced by geographical area, seasonal and cultural factors, and socioeconomic status. This study was done to show the prevalence of different pediatric dermatoses in a tertiary care hospital of Western Nepal. Chart reviews of children aged one day to 17 years, presenting to Universal Medical College Teaching Hospital, Nepal, from 1 September 2014 to 30 august 2015, were done. Descriptive analysis and two-sided chi-square test were done. Among 23992 patients visiting the dermatology outpatient department (OPD), 5398 (22.5%) were of pediatric age groups (male/female: 1.2/1); most of them belonged to young teens and teenagers (n=3308; 61.3%). Three most common dermatoses were fungal infections (18.5%), eczema (14.4%), and acne (10.1%). Fungal infections (n=653; 65.4%) and acne (n=284; 51.9%) were common in males, whereas eczema (n=402; 51.7%) was more common in females. Fungal infection (P<0.001), eczema (P<0.001), pigmentation disorders (P<0.001), and acne (P<0.01) were significantly more during summer, while scabies was more in winter (P<0.001). Dermatophytosis, pyoderma, and warts comprised frequently occurring fungal, bacterial, and viral infections, respectively.
Classes ofI-Convergent Double Sequences overn-Normed Spaces
Authors: Khan Nazneen
Published: May 2016

I introduce some new classes ofI-convergent double sequences defined by a sequence of moduli overn-normed space. Study of their algebraic and topological properties and some inclusion relations has also been done.
Effect of Glycyrrhiza on the Diuretic Function of Euphorbia kansui: An Ascites Mouse Model
Authors: Lin Ya , Zhang Yanqiong , Shang Erxin , Lai Wenfang , Zhu Hongwei , Fang Yuhua , Qin Qingxia , Zhao Haiyu , Lin Na
Published: May 2016

We investigated the therapeutic role of the herbal combination Euphorbia kansui (GS) and Glycyrrhiza (GC) in ascites during hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The AVPR2 and AQP2 expression in kidney tissues of ascites mice in different groups was determined by immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and real‐time PCR analyses. When the dose of GS was less than 0.70 g/kg at a ratio of GC : GS not exceeding 0.4 : 1, the combination of GS and GC exhibited synergistic effects on HCC ascites and significantly elevated the expression levels of AVPR2 and AQP2 (all P < 0.05). On the contrary, when GS ≥ 0.93 g/kg and GC ≥ 1.03 g/kg with the GC‐to‐GS ratio exceeding 1.11 : 1, the combination of GS and GC displayed antagonistic effects on HCC ascites and dramatically reduced the expression levels of AVPR2 and AQP2 (all P < 0.05). Furthermore, the administration of herbal pair GS and GC at different ratios did not exacerbate the pathological changes in liver and kidney tissues of HCC ascites mice. The different combinations of GS and GC exerted synergistic or antagonistic effects on HCC ascites, partially by regulating the expression of AVPR2 and AQP2.
Phylogenetic Analysis of Nucleotide Sequences from the ITS Region and Biological Characterization of Nematophagous Fungi from Morelos, Mexico
Authors: Castañeda-Ramírez Gloria Sarahí , Mendoza-de-Gives Pedro , Aguilar-Marcelino Liliana , López-Arellano María Eugenia , Hernández-Romano Jesús
Published: May 2016

We determined the morphological taxonomy of eighteen nematophagous fungi (NF), as well as their in vitro predatory activity against Haemonchus contortus infective larvae (L3). Fungi were classified into six genera and three species, the most common of which were Monacrosporium eudermatum and Arthrobotrys oligospora. We then sequenced five NF isolates using ITS4 and ITS5 primers. These sequences showed high identity with sequences from the NCBI database (98-99%). In contrast, alignments among the same genera and species demonstrated 83–97% identity. Polymorphisms observed between Arthrobotrys and Monacrosporium appear to be associated with differences in biological function, nonspecific mutations, evolutionary processes, feeding behaviour, predatory activity, and microecosystems.
Diversity of Virulence Factors Associated with West Australian Methicillin-SensitiveStaphylococcus aureusIsolates of Human Origin
Authors: Waryah Charlene Babra , Gogoi-Tiwari Jully , Wells Kelsi , Eto Karina Yui , Masoumi Elnaz , Costantino Paul , Kotiw Michael , Mukkur Trilochan
Published: May 2016

An extensive array of virulence factors associated withS. aureushas contributed significantly to its success as a major nosocomial pathogen in hospitals and community causing variety of infections in affected patients. Virulence factors include immune evading capsular polysaccharides, poly-N-acetyl glucosamine, and teichoic acid in addition to damaging toxins including hemolytic toxins, enterotoxins, cytotoxins, exfoliative toxin, and microbial surface components recognizing adhesive matrix molecules (MSCRAMM). In this investigation, 31 West AustralianS. aureusisolates of human origin and 6 controls were analyzed for relative distribution of virulence-associated genes using PCR and/or an immunoassay kit and MSCRAMM by PCR-based typing. Genes encoding MSCRAMM, namely, Spa, ClfA, ClfB, SdrE, SdrD, IsdA, and IsdB, were detected in >90% of isolates. Gene encodingα-toxin was detected in >90% of isolates whereas genes encodingβ-toxin and SEG were detectable in 50–60% of isolates. Genes encoding toxin proteins, namely, SEA, SEB, SEC, SED, SEE, SEH, SEI, SEJ, TSST, PVL, ETA, and ETB, were detectable in >50% of isolates. Use of RAPD-PCR for determining the virulence factor-based genetic relatedness among the isolates revealed five cluster groups confirming genetic diversity among the MSSA isolates, with the greatest majority of the clinicalS. aureus(84%) isolates clustering in group IIIa.
Evaluation of Antimicrobial Resistance inStaphylococcus aureusIsolates by Years
Authors: Rağbetli Cennet , Parlak Mehmet , Bayram Yasemin , Guducuoglu Huseyin , Ceylan Nesrin
Published: May 2016

Objective. Recently, community and hospital-acquired infections withStaphylococcus aureushave increased and raised antibiotic resistant isolates. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the antibiotic resistance profile ofS. aureusisolates over several years in various clinical specimens from our hospital.Materials and Methods.S. aureusstrains from 2009 to 2014 were isolated from various clinical samples at Yuzuncu Yil University, Dursun Odabas Medical Center, Microbiology Laboratory, and their antibiotic susceptibility test results were retrospectively investigated. The isolates were identified by conventional methods, and antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed by the Phoenix (Becton Dickinson, USA) automated system method according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) standards.Results. A total of 1,116S. aureusisolates were produced and methicillin-resistantS. aureus(MRSA) to 21% of allS. aureusisolates between 2009 and 2014. According to the results of susceptibility tests of all isolates ofS. aureus, they have been identified as sensitive to vancomycin, daptomycin, linezolid, and levofloxacin. While the resistance rates to nitrofurantoin, quinupristin-dalfopristin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole were determined as 0.3%, 2.4%, and 6%, respectively, resistance rates to penicillin, erythromycin, rifampicin, gentamicin, and clindamycin were determined as 100%, 18%, 14%, 14%, and 11%, respectively. The highest percentage of methicillin resistance was determined as 30% in 2009, and the resistance was determined to have decreased in subsequent years (20%, 16%, 13%, 19%, and 21%) (p<0.001).Conclusion. Currently, retrospective evaluations of causes of nosocomial infection should be done periodically. We think that any alteration of resistance over the years has to be identified, and all centers must determine their own resistance profiles, in order to guide empirical therapies. Reducing the rate of antibiotic resistance will contribute to reducing the cost of treatment.
Survival Analysis over 28 Years of 173,378 Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Japan
Authors: Kudo Masatoshi , Izumi Namiki , Sakamoto Michiie , Matsuyama Yutaka , Ichida Takafumi , Nakashima Osamu , Matsui Osamu , Ku Yonson , Kokudo Norihiro , Makuuchi Masatoshi ,   for the Liver Cancer Study Group of Japan
Published: May 2016

Background: Beginning in 1967, the Liver Cancer Study Group of Japan (LCSGJ) started a nationwide prospective registry of all patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) diagnosed at more than 700 institutions. To determine the effectiveness of surveillance and treatment methods longitudinally, we analyzed improvements over time in overall survival (OS) of 173,378 patients with HCC prospectively entered into the LCSGJ registry between 1978 and 2005. Methods: All patients from more than 700 institutions throughout Japan with HCC were entered into the LCSGJ registry. Patients were grouped by years of diagnosis, with OS and 5-year OS rates being calculated. We also assessed OS and 5-year OS rates in patients who underwent resection, local ablation, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), and hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) and in those with baseline serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels ≥400 ng/ml. Results: The 5- and 10-year OS rates in the cohort of 173,378 patients were 37.9% and 16.5%, respectively. However, over time, the mean maximum tumor size decreased significantly, whereas 5-year OS rates and median survival time increased significantly. Similar findings were observed separately in patients who underwent resection, local ablation, TACE, and HAIC, as well as in patients with AFP levels ≥400 ng/ml. Conclusion: The establishment of a nationwide HCC surveillance program in Japan has contributed to longer median OS and increased OS rates in patients diagnosed with this disease. These findings suggest that the establishment of a surveillance program in other countries with patients at risk for HCC may provide significant survival benefits.
Evidence for the Inhibition by Temozolomide, an Imidazotetrazine Family Alkylator, of Intermediate-Conductance Ca2+-Activated K+ Channels in Glioma Cells
Authors: Yeh Poh-Shiow , Wu Shyh-Jong , Hung Te-Yu , Huang Yan-Ming , Hsu Chia-Wei , Sze Chun-I , Hsieh Yi-Jung , Huang Chin-Wei , Wu Sheng-Nan
Published: May 2016

Background: Temozolomide (TMZ), an oral alkylator of the imidazotetrazine family, is used to treat glioma. Whether this drug has any ionic effects in glioma cells remains largely unclear. Methods: With the aid of patch-clamp technology, we investigated the effects of TMZ on the ionic currents in U373 glioma cells. The mRNA expression of KCNN4 (KCa3.1) in U373 glioma cells and TMZ's effect on K+ currents in these KCNN4 siRNA-transfected U373 cells were investigated. Results: In whole-cell recordings, TMZ decreased the amplitude of voltage-dependent K+ currents (IK) in U373 cells. TMZ-induced IK inhibition was reversed by ionomycin or 1-ethyl-2-benzimidazolinone (1-EBIO). In cell-attached configuration, TMZ concentration-dependently reduced the activity of intermediate-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (IKCa) channels with an IC50 value of 9.2 µM. Chlorzoxazone or 1-EBIO counteracted the TMZ-induced inhibition of IKCa channels. Although TMZ was unable to modify single-channel conductance, its inhibition of IKCa channels was weakly voltage-dependent and accompanied by a significant prolongation in the slow component of mean closed time. However, neitherlarge-conductance Ca2+-activated (BKCa) nor inwardly rectifying K+ (Kir) channels were affected by TMZ. In current-clamp mode, TMZ depolarized the cell membrane and 1-EBIO reversed TMZ-induced depolarization. TMZ had no effect on IK in KCNN4 siRNA-transfected U373 cells. Conclusion: In addition to the DNA damage it does, its inhibitory effect on IKCa channels accompanied by membrane depolarization could be an important mechanism underlying TMZ-induced antineoplastic actions.
Comparison of Nerve-Sparing Radical Hysterectomy and Radical Hysterectomy: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xue Zhuowei , Zhu Xiaolu , Teng Yincheng
Published: May 2016

Background/Aims: Radical hysterectomy (RH) for the treatment of cervical cancer frequently caused pelvic organ dysfunctions. This study aimed to compare the results of pelvic organ function and recurrence rate after Nerve sparing radical hysterectomy (NSRH) and RH treatment through systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: PubMed, Web of Science and China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database were searched from inception to 25 February 2015. Studies of cervical cancer which reported radical hysterectomy or nerve sparing radical hysterectomy were included. The quality of included studies was evaluated using the guidelines of Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.3 software (Cochrane Collaboration). Results: A total of 20 studies were finally included. Meta-analysis demonstrated that NSRH was associated with less bladder and anorectal dysfunction than RH. The time to bladder and anorectal function recovery after NSRH was shorter than RH. Patients undergoing NSRH also scored higher than patients undergoing RH at Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). On the other hand, the local recurrence and overall recurrence rate were similar between NSRH and RH. Conclusion: NSRH may be an effective technique for lowering pelvic organ dysfunction and improving the function recovery without increasing the recurrence rate of cervical cancer.
MicroRNA-340 Induces Apoptosis and Inhibits Metastasis of Ovarian Cancer Cells by Inactivation of NF-κB1
Authors: Li Peiquan , Sun Yuxin , Liu Qing
Published: May 2016

Aims: Aberrant expression of microRNA-340 (miR-340) has been frequently reported in some cancers excluding ovarian cancer (OC). The role and its molecular mechanism of miR-340 in OC have not been reported. Methods: Real-time PCR was performed to detect the expression of miR-340 in OC cell lines. MiR-340 mimic and negative control were transfected into OC cells and the effects of miR-340 on the cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis and metastasis were investigated by Brdu-ELISA assay, flow cytometry, qRT-PCR, Transwell and ELISA assays. Furthermore, protein level of NF-κB1 was measured by Western blotting. Meanwhile, luciferase assays were performed to validate NF-κB1 as miR-340 target in OC cells. Results: In this study, we explored the effects of miR-340 overexpression on apoptosis, invasion and EMT in OC cells. The mRNA level of miR-340 in OC cell lines and tissues was evidently reduced. The miR-340 mimic was transiently transfected into OC cells using Lipofectamine™ 2000 reagent. Subsequently, the Brdu-ELISA results showed that introduction of miR-340 inhibited cell proliferation. Our data also demonstrated that miR-340 mimic arrested cell cycle progression and promoted apoptosis of OC cells. In addition, miR-340 overexpression could also inhibit invasion and EMT of OC cells. qRT-PCR were used to determined the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 (MMP-2 and -9) in OC cells. Next, we found that NF-κB1 expression was evidently reduced by up-regulation of miR-340. Bioinformatics analysis predicted that the NF-κB1 was a potential target gene of miR-340. Luciferase reporter assay further confirmed that miR-340 could directly target the 3' UTR of NF-κB1. Moreover, overexpression of NF-κB1 in OC cells transfected with miR-340 mimic partially reversed the inhibitory of miR-340 mimic. Conclusion: miR-340 induced cell apoptosis and inhibited metastasis in OC cells by down-regulation of NF-κB1.
Celastrol-Induced Suppression of the MiR-21/ERK Signalling Pathway Attenuates Cardiac Fibrosis and Dysfunction
Authors: Cheng Mian , Wu Gang , Song Yue , Wang Lin , Tu Ling , Zhang Lizhi , Zhang Cuntai
Published: May 2016

Backgroud: Myocardial fibrosis results in myocardial remodelling and dysfunction. Celastrol, a traditional oriental medicine, has been suggested to have cardioprotective effects. However, its underlying mechanism is unknown. This study investigated the ability of celastrol to prevent cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction and explored the underlying mechanisms. Methods: Animal and cell models of cardiac fibrosis were used in this study. Myocardial fibrosis was induced by transverse aortic constriction (TAC) in mice. Cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis were evaluated based on histological and biochemical measurements. Cardiac function was evaluated by echocardiography. The levels of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), extracellular signal regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) signalling were measured using Western blotting, while the expression of miR-21was analyzed by real-time qRT-PCR in vitro and in vivo. In vitro studies, cultured cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) were treated with TGF-β1 and transfected with microRNA-21(miR21). Results: Celastrol treatment reduced the increased collagen deposition and down-regulated α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptides (BNP), beta-myosin heavy chain (β-MHC), miR-21 and p-ERK/ERK. Cardiac dysfunction was significantly attenuated by celastrol treatment in the TAC mice model. Celastrol treatment reduced myocardial fibroblast viability and collagen content and down-regulated α-SMA in cultured CFs in vitro. Celastrol also inhibited the miR-21/ERK signalling pathway. Celastrol attenuated miR-21 up-regulation by TGF-β1 and decreased elevated p-ERK/ERK levels in CFs transfected with miR-21. Conclusion: MiR-21/ERK signalling could be a potential therapeutic pathway for the prevention of myocardial fibrosis. Celastrol ameliorates myocardial fibrosis and cardiac dysfunction, these probably related to miR-21/ERK signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo.
Cytopathological Features of a Severe Type of Corneal Intraepithelial Neoplasia
Authors: Fukuoka Hideki , Kawasaki Satoshi , Yokoi Norihiko , Yamasaki Kenta , Kinoshita Shigeru
Published: May 2016

Purpose: To report the cytopathological features of corneal intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) through the investigation of cytokeratin expression pattern, keratinization, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and epithelial mesenchymal transition. Patient and Methods: Corneal tissue excised from a CIN patient was examined in this study. Cryosections of the excised CIN epithelial tissue were examined by immunostaining analysis using antibodies against cytokeratins, keratinization-related proteins, Ki-67, human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins. Subcellular localization of F-actin was also analyzed using phalloidin. For the detection of apoptotic cells, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay was performed. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to quantify the expression level of hTERT in the CIN epithelium. Results: The CIN epithelium exhibited a significantly altered cytokeratin expression pattern compared to normal corneas with an upregulated expression of keratinization-related proteins. The CIN epithelium also demonstrated an increased number of Ki-67-positive cells with an upregulated expression of hTERT, while exhibiting an increased number of apoptotic cells. EMT did not occur in the CIN epithelium. Conclusion: CIN epithelium seems to be slightly dedifferentiated from the corneal epithelial lineage. The status of cell proliferation and apoptosis in the CIN epithelium was significantly altered from that of normal corneal epithelium, but its malignancy level does not appear to be as high as that of metastasis-competent malignant cancers.
Consumo e Diversidade Cultural/Sexual: Investigações Interdisciplinares
Authors: Garcia Wilton
Published: May 2016

O estudo da história do cinema americano como indústria induz à ligação entre o cinema e a publicidade. No sistema patriarcal de troca é importante o estímulo à imagem narcisística da mulher, onde se testemunha a idealização do corpo e do ambiente circunscrito, e onde se propõe um estilo de vida ideal. É a afinidade entre consumismo e cinema o que se procura analisar, de como o cinema industrial americano se dotou como veículo de uma ideologia de comercialização.
Breve História dos Slogans Políticos nas Eleições do Brasil Republicano
Authors: Queiroz Adolpho , Manhanelli Carlos
Published: May 2016

Este artigo pretende recuperar a memória dos slogans eleitorais no Brasil, na ótica da propaganda política, mostrando de que forma essas palavras ajudam na construção da imagem eleitoral e na comunicação política dos candidatos. O estudo presente tem como objetivo a análise das representações discursivas, políticas e dos valores contidos nos slogans das eleições presidenciais, estaduais e municipais. Os resultados do estudo incidirão na análise da diferenciação discursiva, política, ideológica e dos valores contidos nos slogans de campanha. Do ponto de vista metodológico, este estudo utiliza a análise de conteúdo, percepções lingüísticas e visão histórica de sua evolução no Brasil.
Em torno da autopromoção: o Samba da Globalização
Authors: Castro Maria Lília Dias de
Published: May 2016

O presente artigo centra-se no estudo de um tipo de movimento midiático: o de caráter (auto)promocional, procurando, de um lado, entender o fenômeno dentro das contingências do mundo moderno e, de outro, examinar as regras e estratégias que compõem e estruturam esse tipo de produção na televisão. Como objeto empírico, elege para análise um formato promocional específico: a chamada feita pela Rede Globo de Televisão, intitulada Samba da Globalização, e veiculada no mês de janeiro de 2008, antes do carnaval, nos intervalos comerciais. A intenção da chamada é chamar a atenção do telespectador para a variada grade de programação da emissora, aproveitando a ocasião para falar de si mesma.
Semiótica e Publicidade: uma leitura dos discursos publicitários bancários
Authors: Silva Jane Cristina Baptista da , Prados Rosália Maria Netto
Published: May 2016

Este trabalho é uma análise, à luz da Semiótica, sobre aspectos da linguagem publicitária e/ou propaganda presentes nos discursos bancários que se caracterizam como propagadores de valores, controladores, e sempre sugerem a adesão de seus bens de consumo, tendo como alvo principal a conquista da preferência, através de valores que seduzem e persuadem consumidores/clientes, sendo amplamente divulgados pela mídia.
Inspirações moçambicanas
Authors: Pompeu Bruno
Published: May 2016

ResenhaCOUTO, Mia. E se Obama fosse africano?: e outras intervenções. São Paulo: Companhia das Letras, 2011
Publicidade para causas sociais: apontamentos sobre a experiência do laboratório universitário de publicidade aplicada (LUPA)
Authors: Machado Monica , Martineli Fernanda , Pinheiro Marta De Araujo
Published: May 2016

Este artigo aborda a comunicação publicitária diante das transformações sociais, culturais e tecnológicas contemporâneas. E também o papel da Universidade Pública no ensino, extensão e pesquisa de temas sobre o consumo, publicidade e responsabilidade social. O relato sobre o Laboratório Universitário de Publicidade Aplicada (LUPA) nos levou a compreender a importância da agência experimental no processo de formação acadêmica.
Ver, Ler, Tocar E Participar Do Anúncio Impresso Da Cerveja Sol
Authors: Pucci Fernanda Rodrigues
Published: May 2016

Este artigo é uma pequena parte de um trabalho maior e apresenta uma análise teórica, e de certo modo técnica, de um dos anúncios de lançamento da cerveja SOL no Brasil. Resgata alguns conceitos de análise da imagem  (icônica)  e retórica publicitárias com foco no anúncio impresso que possui elementos interativos  (exige  manipulação). O objetivo principal é conhecer como ocorre a formação de sentido nas mensagens publicitárias que usam da interação com o receptor. O estudo é embasado por Peirce, Eco e Barthes.