bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Tree Shelters on the Survival and Growth ofArgania spinosaSeedlings in Mediterranean Arid Environment
Authors: Defaa Chamchelmaarif , Elantry Salwa , Lahlimi El Alami Sanae , Achour Ahmed , El Mousadik Abdelhamid , Msanda Fouad
Published: November 2015

The argan tree is endemic species of Morocco. It occupies an area of more than 8700 km2and plays essential ecological and economical roles. In spite of their value, the argan woodlands are subject to rapid and uncontrolled degradation during the last decades, mainly due to overgrazing and systematic collection of argan nuts. The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of two types of tree shelters on survival and growth ofArgania spinosaseedlings planted in the southwest of Morocco in order to improve the results of reforestation programs which usually end by repeated failures. The experiment was conducted in the Mesguina forest for two growing seasons after transplantation in the field. After two years, the use of tree shelters significantly increased tree survival and allowed a gain of 20%. Height growth was positively affected by tree shelters. The use of tree shelters showed no significant decrease in basal diameter. In contrast, the height to diameter ratios of sheltered trees were much higher compared to the control. Thus, the use of the tree shelters could aid the early establishment and growth ofArgania spinosaunder conditions similar to those of the experiment.
Denaturation Kinetics of Whey Protein Isolate Solutions and Fouling Mass Distribution in a Plate Heat Exchanger
Authors: Khaldi Marwa , Ronse Gilles , André Christophe , Blanpain-Avet Pascal , Bouvier Laurent , Six Thierry , Bornaz Saloua , Croguennec Thomas , Jeantet Romain , Delaplace Guillaume
Published: November 2015

Few investigations have attempted to connect the mechanism of dairy fouling to the chemical reaction of denaturation (unfolding and aggregation) occurring in the bulk. The objective of this study is to contribute to this aspect in order to propose innovative controls to limit fouling deposit formation. Experimental investigations have been carried out to observe the relationship between the deposit mass distribution generated in plate heat exchangers (PHE) by a whey protein isolate (WPI) mainly composed ofβ-lactoglobulin (β-Lg) and the ratio between the unfolding and aggregation rate constants. Experiments using a PHE were carried out at a pilot scale to identify the deposit distribution of a model fouling solution with different calcium contents. In parallel, laboratory experiments were performed to determine the unfolding/aggregation rate constants. Data analysis showed that (i)β-Lg denaturation is highly dependent on the calcium content, (ii) for each fouling solution, irrespective of the imposed temperature profile, the deposit mass in each channel and the ratio between the unfolding and aggregation rate constants seem to be well correlated. This study demonstrates that both the knowledge of the thermal profile and theβ-Lg denaturation rate constants are required in order to predict accurately the deposit distribution along the PHE.
Ecological Risk Assessment of Metal Pollution along Greater Cairo Sector of the River Nile, Egypt, Using Nile Tilapia,Oreochromis niloticus, as Bioindicator
Authors: Omar Wael A. , Mikhail Wafai Z. A. , Abdo Hanaa M. , Abou El Defan Tarek A. , Poraas Mamdouh M.
Published: November 2015

The present work aims to evaluate seasonal metal pollution along Greater Cairo sector of the River Nile, Egypt, using wild Nile tilapia,Oreochromis niloticus, as bioindicator and to conduct a risk assessment for human consumers. Greater Cairo is the largest populated area along the whole course of River Nile with a wide range of anthropogenic activities. Effects of metal pollution on fish body indices were studied using condition factor (CF) and scaled mass index (SMI). Metal pollution index (MPI) showed that the total metal load in fish organs followed the follwoing order: kidney > liver > gill > muscle which gives a better idea about the target organs for metal accumulation. Metal concentrations in fish muscle (edible tissue) showed the following arrangement: Fe > Zn > Cu > Mn > Pb > Cd. Metal’s bioaccumulation factor (BAF) in fish muscle showed the following arrangement: Zn > Cu > Fe > Mn > Cd and Pb. The hazard index (HI) as an indicator of human health risks associated with fish consumption showed that adverse health effects are not expected to occur in most cases. However, the metals’ cumulative risk effects gave an alarming sign specifically at high fish consumption rates.
Brainstem Tuberculoma in Pregnancy
Authors: Muin Dana A. , Wagner Katrin , Burian Rosemarie , Ghaem Maghami Naghmeh , Lapaire Olav
Published: November 2015

We report a case of a Somali refugee who presented in the second trimester of her first pregnancy with a four-week history of gradual right-sided sensomotoric hemisyndrome including facial palsy and left-sided paresis of the oculomotorius nerve causing drooping of the left eyelid and double vision. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging revealed a solitary brainstem lesion. Upon detection of hilar lymphadenopathy on chest X-ray (CXR), the diagnosis of disseminated tuberculosis with involvement of the central nervous system was confirmed by PCR and treatment induced with rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. The patient had a steady neurological improvement and a favorable pregnancy outcome.
Kinetics, Equilibrium, and Thermodynamics of the Sorption of Bisphenol A onto N‐CNTs‐β‐Cyclodextrin and Fe/N‐CNTs‐β‐Cyclodextrin Nanocomposites
Authors: Mphahlele Keletso , Onyango Maurice S. , Mhlanga Sabelo D.
Published: November 2015

We analysed the adsorptive behaviour of Fe/N‐CNTs‐β‐CD nanocomposite in the removal of bisphenol A (BPA) from aqueous solution and identified the key influencing parameters. The Fe/N‐CNTs‐β‐CD nanocomposite adsorbent was prepared by dispersing Fe uniformly on N‐CNTs‐β‐CD using a microwave polyol method and characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB‐SEM), and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS). The solution pH and temperature had minimal effect on sorption of BPA while the initial concentration and adsorbent mass affected the adsorption of BPA. No leaching of Fe into the water was observed; thus the nanocomposites were found suitable for use in water purification. From equilibrium isotherm studies, the Langmuir isotherm model gave the best description of the experimental data. The Langmuir monolayer adsorption capacities of BPA onto N‐CNTs‐β‐CD and Fe/N‐CNTs‐β‐CD are 38.20 mg·g−1 and 80.65 mg·g−1 at 298 K, respectively. Evidently, these adsorption capacity values gave an indication that uniform dispersion of Fe N‐CNTs‐β‐CD prepared by the microwave polyol method enhances the adsorption of BPA. Meanwhile, the sorption kinetics of BPA onto Fe/N‐CNTs‐β‐CD were best described by the pseudo‐second‐order model.
Determination of Volatile Compounds in Foxtail Millet Sake Using Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Liu Jingke , Zhao Wei , Li Shaohui , Zhang Aixia , Zhang Yuzong , Liu Songyan
Published: November 2015

The volatile compounds in foxtail millet sake were extracted by headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). Different methods of sample preparation were used to optimize this method (SPME fiber types, sample amount, extraction time, extraction temperature, content of NaCl, and rotor speed). For final method of sample preparation, 8 mL of sake was placed in a 15 mL headspace vial with addition of 1.5 g of NaCl; a 50/30 μm DVB/CAR/PDMS SPME fiber was used for extraction at 50°C for 30 min with 10 rpm continuous stirring. A total of 41 volatile compounds were identified from the sake sample, including 9 esters, 6 alcohols, 4 acids, 4 aldehydes, 9 hydrocarbons, 7 benzene derivatives, and 2 others. The main volatile compounds were ethyl acetate, phenylethyl alcohol, butanedioic acid diethyl ester, and hexadecane. According to their odors active values (OAVs), 10 volatile compounds were established to be odor active compounds and to contribute to the typical foxtail millet sake aroma. Hexanoic acid ethyl ester was the most prominent odor active compound.
ZnCuInS/ZnSe/ZnS Quantum Dot‐Based Downconversion Light‐Emitting Diodes and Their Thermal Effect
Authors: Liu Wenyan , Zhang Yu , Ruan Cheng , Wang Dan , Zhang Tieqiang , Feng Yi , Gao Wenzhu , Yin Jingzhi , Wang Yiding , Riley Alexis P. , Hu Michael Z. , Yu William W.
Published: November 2015

The quantum dot‐based light‐emitting diodes (QD‐LEDs) were fabricated using blue GaN chips and red‐, yellow‐, and green‐emitting ZnCuInS/ZnSe/ZnS QDs. The power efficiencies were measured as 14.0 lm/W for red, 47.1 lm/W for yellow, and 62.4 lm/W for green LEDs at 2.6 V. The temperature effect of ZnCuInS/ZnSe/ZnS QDs on these LEDs was investigated using CIE chromaticity coordinates, spectral wavelength, full width at half maximum (FWHM), and power efficiency (PE). The thermal quenching induced by the increased surface temperature of the device was confirmed to be one of the important factors to decrease power efficiencies while the CIE chromaticity coordinates changed little due to the low emission temperature coefficients of 0.022, 0.050, and 0.068 nm/°C for red‐, yellow‐, and green‐emitting ZnCuInS/ZnSe/ZnS QDs. These indicate that ZnCuInS/ZnSe/ZnS QDs are more suitable for downconversion LEDs compared to CdSe QDs.
Enhanced Oxidative Stress and Other Potential Biomarkers for Retinopathy in Type 2 Diabetics: Beneficial Effects of the Nutraceutic Supplements
Authors: Roig-Revert María J. , Lleó-Pérez Antonio , Zanón-Moreno Vicente , Vivar-Llopis Bárbara , Marín-Montiel Juan , Dolz-Marco Rosa , Alonso-Muñoz Luis , Albert-Fort Mara , López-Gálvez María I. , Galarreta-Mira David , García-Esparza María F. , Galbis-Estrada Carmen , Marco-Ramirez Carla , Shoaie-Nia Kian , Sanz-González Silvia M. , Vila-Bou Vicente , Bendala-Tufanisco Elena , García-Medina José J. , Nucci Carlo , Gallego-Pinazo Roberto , Arévalo J. Fernando , Pinazo-Durán Maria D. , Valencia Study on Diabetic Retinopathy (VSDR)
Published: November 2015

We have studied the global risk of retinopathy in a Mediterranean population of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients, according to clinical, biochemical, and lifestyle biomarkers. The effects of the oral supplementation containing antioxidants/omega 3 fatty acids (A/ω3) were also evaluated. Suitable participants were distributed into two main groups: (1) T2DMG (with retinopathy (+DR) or without retinopathy (−DR)) and (2) controls (CG). Participants were randomly assigned (+A/ω3) or not (−A/ω3) to the oral supplementation with a daily pill of Nutrof Omega (R) for 18 months. Data collected including demographics, anthropometrics, characteristics/lifestyle, ophthalmic examination (best corrected visual acuity, ocular fundus photographs, and retinal thickness as assessed by optical coherence tomography), and blood parameters (glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, triglycerides, malondialdehyde, and total antioxidant capacity) were registered, integrated, and statistically processed by the SPSS 15.0 program. Finally, 208 participants (130 diabetics (68 +DR/62 −DR) and 78 controls) completed the follow-up. Blood analyses confirmed that the T2DMG+DR patients had significantly higher oxidative stress(p<0.05), inflammatory(p<0.05), and vascular(p<0.001)risk markers than the T2DMG−DR and the CG. Furthermore, the A/ω3 oral supplementation positively changed the baseline parameters, presumptively by inducing metabolic activation and ameliorating the ocular health after 18 months of supplementation.
The Blood Alcohol Concentration Testing Emergency Room Investigation Analysis Study: A 1-Year Review of Blood Alcohol Concentration Testing in an Emergency Department
Authors: Elgammal Ayman , Eves Doireann , Albaghli Abbas , Kane Daniel , Durcan Robert , Storey David , Gilligan Peadar
Published: November 2015

Aim. To describe the actual use of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) testing in an emergency department. Method. This study was performed to examine in what circumstances emergency medicine doctors and nurses request blood alcohol concentrations and the outcome of patients so tested. A retrospective study was performed. A database of all the patients who presented to the emergency department and who were tested for BAC in 2012 was created. Descriptive statistics are used to present the findings. Results. During 2012, there were 1191 patients on whom BAC testing was performed. 37 patients had a BAC greater than the allegedly lethal concentration of 400 mg/100 mL. Using a multifactorial analysis model, a higher blood alcohol concentration was associated with a lower Glasgow Coma Score. Conclusion. BAC testing is most often performed in the context of alleged overdose. BAC was performed in other clinical scenarios albeit in less than 2% of all ED attendances.
Flexible Ureteroscopy Can Be More Efficacious in the Treatment of Proximal Ureteral Stones in Select Patients
Authors: Alkan Erdal , Sarıbacak Ali , Ozkanli Ahmet Oguz , Basar Mehmet Murad , Acar Oguz , Balbay Mevlana Derya
Published: November 2015

Purpose. We aimed to compare and evaluate the outcomes and complications of two endoscopic treatment procedures, semirigid ureteroscopy (SR-URS) and flexible ureteroscopy (F-URS), in the treatment of proximal ureteral stones (PUS).Methods. SR-URS (group 1) was done on 68 patients whereas 64 patients underwent F-URS (group 2) for the treatment of PUS. Success rate was defined as the absence of stone fragments or presence of asymptomatic insignificant residual fragments < 2 mm. Outcomes and complications were recorded.Results. The differences were statistically not significant in age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and stone characteristics between groups. Mean ureteral stone size was 9.1 ± 0.4 mm and 8.9 ± 0.5 mm for groups 1 and 2. Mean operative time was 34.1 ± 1.5 min and 49.4 ± 2.3 min for groups 1 and 2 (p=0.001). SFRs were 76.5% and 87.5% for groups 1 and 2 (p=0.078). Two major complications (ureteral avulsion and ureteral rupture) occurred in group 1.Conclusion. F-URS is safer and less invasive than SR-URS in patients with PUS. There is no statistically significant difference in the efficacy of either technique. Nonetheless we recommend F-URS in the management of PUS as a first-line treatment option in select cases of proximal ureteral calculi.
First Report of Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Infection due toCyberlindnera fabianii
Authors: Baghdadi Jonathan , Hemarajata Peera , Humphries Romney , Kelesidis Theodoros
Published: November 2015

Fungal infections in the central nervous system (CNS) are associated with significant morbidity and death. Transient fungemia in immunocompetent patients without any other risk factors for fungemia has been suggested as a possible mechanism that may lead to serious fungal ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt infections, but evidence is lacking. The clinical spectrum, diagnosis, and optimal therapy ofCyberlindnera fabianiiinfections remain to be determined. We describe the first case of CNS infection due toC. fabianiithat occurred in an immunocompetent adult with a VP shunt. Spontaneous translocation with yeast that is not part of the normal gastrointestinal flora in the setting of ingestion of multiple servings of a fermentation product was the likely source from whichCyberlindnera fabianiigained entrance into the VP shunt system, causing meningitis in this patient. The authors conclude that, in view of the high morbidity associated with yeast infection of the CNS, long-term antifungal therapy should be strongly considered in cases where the VP shunt cannot be completely removed. Transient fungemia may lead to invasive disease in an immunocompetent host with VP shunt, even in the absence of any other risk factors for fungemia and even after remote placement of the VP shunt.
The Roles of miR-26, miR-29, and miR-203 in the Silencing of the Epigenetic Machinery during Melanocyte Transformation
Authors: Gasque Schoof Cláudia Regina , Izzotti Alberto , Jasiulionis Miriam Galvonas , Vasques Luciana dos Reis
Published: November 2015

The epigenetic marks located throughout the genome exhibit great variation between normal and transformed cancer cells. While normal cells contain hypomethylated CpG islands near gene promoters and hypermethylated repetitive DNA, the opposite pattern is observed in cancer cells. Recently, it has been reported that alteration in the microenvironment of melanocyte cells, such as substrate adhesion blockade, results in the selection of anoikis-resistant cells, which have tumorigenic characteristics. Melanoma cells obtained through this model show an altered epigenetic pattern, which represents one of the first events during the melanocytes malignant transformation. Because microRNAs are involved in controlling components of the epigenetic machinery, the aim of this work was to evaluate the potential association between the expression ofmiR-203, miR-26, andmiR-29family members and the genesDnmt3a, Dnmt3b, Mecp2, andEzh2during cells transformation. Our results show that microRNAs and their validated or predicted targets are inversely expressed, indicating that these molecules are involved in epigenetic reprogramming. We also show that miR-203 downregulates Dnmt3b in mouse melanocyte cells. In addition, treatment with 5-aza-CdR promotes the expression ofmiR-26andmiR-29in a nonmetastatic melanoma cell line. Considering the occurrence of CpG islands near themiR-26andmiR-29promoters, these data suggest that they might be epigenetically regulated in cancer.
Doxorubicin Differentially Induces Apoptosis, Expression of Mitochondrial Apoptosis-Related Genes, and Mitochondrial Potential in BCR-ABL1-Expressing Cells Sensitive and Resistant to Imatinib
Authors: Synowiec Ewelina , Hoser Grazyna , Bialkowska-Warzecha Jolanta , Pawlowska Elzbieta , Skorski Tomasz , Blasiak Janusz
Published: November 2015

Imatinib resistance is an emerging problem in the therapy of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Because imatinib induces apoptosis, which may be coupled with mitochondria and DNA damage is a prototype apoptosis-inducing factor, we hypothesized that imatinib-sensitive and -resistant CML cells might differentially express apoptosis-related mitochondrially encoded genes in response to genotoxic stress. We investigated the effect of doxorubicin (DOX), a DNA-damaging anticancer drug, on apoptosis and the expression of the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase 3 (MT-ND3) and cytochromeb(MT-CYB) in model CML cells showing imatinib resistance caused by Y253H mutation in theBCR-ABL1gene (253) or culturing imatinib-sensitive (S) cells in increasing concentrations of imatinib (AR). The imatinib-resistant 253 cells displayed higher sensitivity to apoptosis induced by 1 μM DOX and this was confirmed by an increased activity of executioner caspases 3 and 7 in those cells. Native mitochondrial potential was lower in imatinib-resistant cells than in their sensitive counterparts and DOX lowered it. MT-CYB mRNA expression in 253 cells was lower than that in S cells and 0.1 μM DOX kept this relationship. In conclusion, imatinib resistance may be associated with altered mitochondrial response to genotoxic stress, which may be further exploited in CML therapy in patients with imatinib resistance.
Network Lifetime Maximization in Wireless Sensor Networks with a Path-Constrained Mobile Sink
Authors: Huynh Thong , Hwang Won-Joo
Published: November 2015

Wireless sensor networks with the mobile sink can help to prevent the hot-spot problem and improve the network lifetime. However, in practice, the trajectories of the sink can not ideally change due to the obstacle of the environment or the requirement of the application. The constraint on trajectory of the mobile sink causes the different connection time between the mobile sink and the sensor node, which might result in the imbalance depletion of energy. We propose here an efficient data gathering policy to jointly consider the constrained mobility of the sink and the different connection time at the sensor node. The policy increases the network lifetime in wireless sensor networks with path-constrained mobile sink by optimizing the assignment sensor node. In addition, we also propose the policy to cope with the overlapped connection time of the sink and sensor node due to the movement of the sink. The simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed policy: by carefully considering the trajectory of the sink and effectively assigning the sensor node, the network lifetime is increased.
The Optimum Output Quantity for Different Competitive Behaviors under a Fuzzy Decision Environment
Authors: Sun Hong-Xia , Li Yu , Wang Feng
Published: November 2015

Due to the uncertainty of information and complexity of decision-making environment, the optimum output quantity is studied under a fuzzy decision environment. Firstly, the triangular intuitionistic fuzzy model is proposed. Secondly, the optimum output quantity is discussed for four patterns to market structure. Thirdly, the effect of fuzzy parameter on optimum output quantity and total market demand is discussed. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the concrete application of the proposed model.
The Safety and Efficacy of Routine Administration of Intracameral Vancomycin during Cataract Surgery
Authors: Rush Sloan W. , Vu Duy , Rush Ryan B.
Published: November 2015

Purpose. To evaluate the safety and efficacy of intracameral vancomycin during cataract surgery using a standardized dosage and delivery technique.Methods. The charts of 20,719 consecutive eyes that underwent phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation in a single ambulatory surgery center were retrospectively reviewed over a 5-year period.Results. The first 11,333 consecutive cases did not receive intracameral vancomycin, whereas the next 9,386 consecutive cases all received intracameral vancomycin. There were no significant differences in the baseline characteristics between the cohort of subjects who received intracameral vancomycin and the cohort of subjects that did not. There were a total of 11 subjects (0.97 cases per 1,000) that developed postoperative endophthalmitis in the group that did not receive intracameral vancomycin, whereas there were no cases of postoperative endophthalmitis in the group that received intracameral vancomycin (p= 0.0015). The overall rate of intraoperative and postoperative complications and the final postoperative visual acuities were similar among cohorts. There were no cases of toxic anterior segment syndrome occurring in either group during the study period.Conclusions. Routine administration of intracameral vancomycin during cataract surgery significantly decreased the incidence of postoperative endophthalmitis and was not associated with an increased incidence of postoperative adverse events.
Malignant Transformation Rate in Patients Presenting Oral Epithelial Dysplasia: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shariff Jaffer A. , Zavras Athanasios I.
Published: November 2015

Objective. To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis on studies that assess malignant transformation rates (MTR) of oral epithelial dysplasia. Materials and Methods. This review was planned and conducted in accordance with the meta-analysis of observational studies in epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines. PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases were screened to identify observational studies. Quality assessments were completed by two reviewers independently using the Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies. Pooled-malignant transformation rate (MTR) in person years, subgroup, sensitivity, and publication bias analysis were calculated using STATA 13.0 and Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software. Results. Sixteen observational cohort studies were identified with a total of 3708 participants from Asia, North America, and Europe. Analysis showed a MTR of 10.5% (pooled-MTR: 10.5, 95% CI: 3.7 to 17.3; fixed effect model, I2=0.0%; Q-value = 2.389; p>0.05) among patients with histologically confirmed oral epithelia dysplasia undergoing long-term follow-up. Higher MTR in person year were seen among the sever dysplastic cases (pooled-MTR: 14.4%, 95% CI: 5.3% to 23.5%), studies published in Europe (pooled-MTR: 12.6%, 95% CI: 8.0% to 24.3%), and retrospective studies (pooled-MTR: 11.0%, 95% CI: 2.2% to 19.9%). Conclusion. These studies show that oral epithelial dysplasia has a significant high rate of transformation to cancer.
A Hybrid Process Monitoring and Fault Diagnosis Approach for Chemical Plants
Authors: Guo Lijie , Kang Jianxin
Published: November 2015

Given their potentially enormous risk, process monitoring and fault diagnosis for chemical plants have recently been the focus of many studies. Based on hazard and operability (HAZOP) analysis, kernel principal component analysis (KPCA), wavelet neural network (WNN), and fault tree analysis (FTA), a hybrid process monitoring and fault diagnosis approach is proposed in this study. HAZOP analysis helps identify the fault modes and determine process variables monitored. The KPCA model is then constructed to reduce monitoring variable dimensionality. Meanwhile, the fault features of the monitoring variables are extracted, so then process monitoring can be performed with the squared prediction error (SPE) statistics of KPCA. Then, multiple WNN models are designed through the use of low-dimensional sample data preprocessed by KPCA as the training and test samples to detect the fault mode online. Finally, FTA approach is introduced to further locate the fault root causes of the fault mode. The proposed approach is applied to process monitoring and fault diagnosis in a depropanizer unit. Case study results indicate that this approach can be applicable to process monitoring and diagnosis in large-scale chemical plants. Accordingly, the approach can serve as an early and reliable basis for technicians’ and operators’ safety management decision-making.
A Simplified Multiband Sampling and Detection Method Based on MWC Structure for Mm Wave Communications in 5G Wireless Networks
Authors: Jia Min , Wang Xue , Gu Xuemai , Guo Qing
Published: November 2015

The millimeter wave (mm wave) communications have been proposed to be an important part of the 5G mobile communication networks, and it will bring more difficulties to signal processing, especially signal sampling, and also cause more pressures on hardware devices. In this paper, we present a simplified sampling and detection method based on MWC structure by using the idea of blind source separation for mm wave communications, which can avoid the challenges of signal sampling brought by high frequencies and wide bandwidth for mm wave systems. This proposed method takes full advantage of the beneficial spectrum aliasing to achieve signal sampling at sub-Nyquist rate. Compared with the traditional MWC system, it provides the exact quantity of sampling channels which is far lower than that of MWC. In the reconstruction stage, the proposed method simplifies the computational complexity by exploiting simple linear operations instead of CS recovery algorithms and provides more stable performance of signal recovery. Moreover, MWC structure has the ability to apply to different bands used in mm wave communications by mixed processing, which is similar to spread spectrum technology.
Nrf2 Activation Promotes Keratinocyte Survival during Early Skin Carcinogenesis via Metabolic Alterations
Authors: Rolfs Frank , Huber Marcel , Kuehne Andreas , Kramer Stefan , Haertel Eric , Muzumdar Sukalp , Wagner Johanna , Tanner Yasmine , Böhm Friederike , Smola Sigrun , Zamboni Nicola , Levesque Mitchell P. , Dummer Reinhard , Beer Hans-Dietmar , Hohl Daniel , Werner Sabine , Schäfer Matthias
Published: November 2015

Pharmacologic activation of the transcription factor NRF2 has been suggested to offer a strategy for cancer prevention. In this study, we present evidence from murine tumorigenesis experiments suggesting there may be limitations to this possibility, based on tumorigenic effects of Nrf2 in murine keratinocytes that have not been described previously. In this setting, Nrf2 expression conferred metabolic alterations in keratinocytes that were protumorigenic in nature, affecting enzymes involved in glutathione biosynthesis or in the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway and other NADPH-producing enzymes. Under stress conditions, coordinate increases in NADPH, purine, and glutathione levels promoted the survival of keratinocytes harboring oncogenic mutations, thereby promoting tumor development. The protumorigenic activity of Nrf2 in keratinocytes was particularly significant in a mouse model of skin tumorigenesis that did not rely upon chemical carcinogenesis. In exploring the clinical relevance of our findings, we confirm that NRF2 and protumorigenic NRF2 target genes were activated in some actinic keratoses, the major precancerous lesion in human skin. Overall, our results reveal an unexpected tumor-promoting activity of activated NRF2 during early phases of skin tumorigenesis. Cancer Res; 75(22); 4817–29. ©2015 AACR.
Phase I Clinical Trial of Ipilimumab in Pediatric Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Merchant Melinda S. , Wright Matthew , Baird Kristin , Wexler Leonard H. , Rodriguez-Galindo Carlos , Bernstein Donna , Delbrook Cindy , Lodish Maya , Bishop Rachel , Wolchok Jedd D. , Streicher Howard , Mackall Crystal L.
Published: November 2015

Purpose: Ipilimumab is a first-in-class immune checkpoint inhibitor approved for treatment of metastatic melanoma but not studied in children until this phase I protocol.

Experimental Design: This study examined safety, pharmacokinetics, and immunogenicity, and immune correlates of ipilimumab administered to subjects ≤21 years old with recurrent or progressive solid tumors. Dose escalation cohorts received 1, 3, 5, or 10 mg/m2 intravenously every 3 weeks in a 3 + 3 design. Response was assessed after 6 weeks and 12 weeks, and then every 3 months. Treatment was continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

Results: Thirty-three patients received 72 doses of ipilimumab. Patients enrolled had melanoma (n = 12), sarcoma (n = 17), or other refractory solid tumors (n = 4). Immune-related adverse events included pancreatitis, pneumonitis, colitis, endocrinopathies, and transaminitis with dose-limiting toxicities observed at 5 and 10 mg/kg dose levels. Pharmacokinetics revealed a half-life of 8 to 15 days. At day 21, subjects had increased levels of cycling T cells, but no change in regulatory T-cell populations. Six subjects had confirmed stable disease for 4 to 10 cycles (melanoma, osteosarcoma, clear cell sarcoma, and synovial sarcoma).

Conclusions: Ipilimumab was safely administered to pediatric patients using management algorithms for immune-related toxicities. The spectrum of immune-related adverse events is similar to those described in adults; however, many of the pediatric toxicities were evident after a single dose. Although no objective tumor regressions were observed with ipilimumab as a single agent, subjects with immune-related toxicities had an increased overall survival compared with those who showed no evidence of breaking tolerance. Clin Cancer Res; 22(6); 1364–70. ©2015 AACR.
Treatment Response Assessment in IDH-Mutant Glioma Patients by Noninvasive 3D Functional Spectroscopic Mapping of 2-Hydroxyglutarate
Authors: Andronesi Ovidiu C. , Loebel Franziska , Bogner Wolfgang , Marjańska Małgorzata , Vander Heiden Matthew G. , Iafrate A. John , Dietrich Jorg , Batchelor Tracy T. , Gerstner Elizabeth R. , Kaelin William G. , Chi Andrew S. , Rosen Bruce R. , Cahill Daniel P.
Published: November 2015

Purpose: Measurements of objective response rates are critical to evaluate new glioma therapies. The hallmark metabolic alteration in gliomas with mutant isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) is the overproduction of oncometabolite 2-hydroxyglutarate (2HG), which plays a key role in malignant transformation. 2HG represents an ideal biomarker to probe treatment response in IDH-mutant glioma patients, and we hypothesized a decrease in 2HG levels would be measureable by in vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) as a result of antitumor therapy.

Experimental Design: We report a prospective longitudinal imaging study performed in 25 IDH-mutant glioma patients receiving adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy. A newly developed 3D MRS imaging was used to noninvasively image 2HG. Paired Student t test was used to compare pre- and posttreatment tumor 2HG values. Test–retest measurements were performed to determine the threshold for 2HG functional spectroscopic maps (fSM). Univariate and multivariate regression were performed to correlate 2HG changes with Karnofsky performance score (KPS).

Results: We found that mean 2HG (2HG/Cre) levels decreased significantly (median = 48.1%; 95% confidence interval = 27.3%–56.5%; P = 0.007) in the posttreatment scan. The volume of decreased 2HG correlates (R2 = 0.88, P = 0.002) with clinical status evaluated by KPS.

Conclusions: We demonstrate that dynamic measurements of 2HG are feasible by 3D fSM, and the decrease of 2HG levels can monitor treatment response in patients with IDH-mutant gliomas. Our results indicate that quantitative in vivo 2HG imaging may be used for precision medicine and early response assessment in clinical trials of therapies targeting IDH-mutant gliomas. Clin Cancer Res; 22(7); 1632–41. ©2015 AACR.
Internal or External Stenting of the Ureterovesical Anastomosis in Renal Transplantation
Authors: Fockens M. Matthijs , Alberts Victor P. , Bemelman Frederike J. , Laguna Pes M. Pilar , Idu Mirza M.
Published: November 2015

Background: Stenting of the ureterovesical anastomosis reduces the incidence of urological complications (UCs) after renal transplantation, but there are multiple stenting techniques, and there is no consensus regarding which technique is preferred. The aim of this study was to compare an internal versus an external stenting technique on the incidence of UCs. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 419 deceased donor renal transplantations performed between January 2008 and December 2013. Until 2011, 183 patients received an external stent through the ureterovesical anastomosis placed by suprapubic bladder puncture (SP stent). From 2011, 236 recipients received an internal double-J (JJ) stent. Results: The rate of UC was 3.8% in JJ stents, compared to 9.3% in SP stents (p = 0.021). No difference in surgical ureter revision rate was observed between the groups (2.1 vs. 5.5%; p = 0.068). Urinary tract infection (UTI) rate and graft function were comparable between both groups. Conclusions: Internal JJ stenting significantly decreased the incidence of UC compared to an external SP stent. There was no difference in surgical ureter revision rate, UTI or graft function.
A Descriptive in vitro Electron Microscopic Study of Acidic Fluoride-Treated Enamel: Potential Anti-Erosion Effects
Authors: Hjortsjö Carl , Young Alix , Kiesow Andreas , Cismak Andreas , Berthold Lutz , Petzold Matthias
Published: November 2015

This study aimed to investigate the surface zones of acidic fluoride-treated enamel. Human teeth were each divided into three or four enamel specimens that were treated for 10 min with solutions of 0.2 and 0.4% HF (pH 3.09 and 2.94), 1.74% SnF2 (pH 2.9), 0.68% TiF4 (pH 1.6) and 0.84% NaF (pH 4.5). Untreated specimens functioned as negative controls. The microstructure and elemental composition of the surface zones were studied by scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and nanospot-EDX following cross-sectional preparation using focused ion beam technology. TEM/EDX analyses of NaF-treated specimens showed a 500-nm-thick closed surface film containing 20-40 at% (atomic percent) F. HF-treated specimens had a distinct surface film 200-600 nm thick (dense, not globular) containing 45-47 at% F. TiF4-treated specimens had a surface film of 200-300 nm in thickness containing 8-11 at% Ti but no detectable fluoride. SnF2-treated specimens had a modified surface enamel layer varying in thickness from 200 to 800 nm with an inhomogeneous distribution of Sn. Local spots were detected with as high as 8 at% Sn (30 wt%, weight percent). The results suggest that the reaction mechanisms of SnF2 and TiF4 solutions with dental enamel differ from those occurring after enamel exposure to acidulated NaF and HF solutions. While the HF and NaF treatments resulted in the formation of CaF2-like material as shown by EDX, no significant surface fluoridation was found for SnF2 and TiF4 solutions within the TEM/EDX detection limits. These results suggest that the erosion-protective mechanisms of these latter compounds probably relate more to the formation of hardly soluble and acid-resistant reaction surface films and less to surface fluoride incorporation.
Differential Effect of the Ratio of Right Ventricular Volume to Left Ventricular Volume in Children with Repaired Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Yao Qiong , Hu Xi-hong , Shen Quan-li , Qiao Zhong-wei , Pa Mi-er , Qian Bin , Yan Wei-li , Huang Guo-ying
Published: November 2015

We aimed to compare the diagnostic value of indexed right ventricular end-diastolic volume (RVEDVi) and the ratio of right ventricle volume to left ventricle volume (RV/LV ratio) in prediction of the severity of pulmonary regurgitation (PR) expressed as the PR fraction (PRF) after surgery of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). Forty-one patients with repaired TOF were included in the study. RVEDVi, LVEDVi, RV/LV ratio, PRF and ejection fraction were measured with magnetic resonance imaging. A PRF of more than 20% was considered significant. The predictive capability of two markers (RVEDVi and RV/LV ratio) for significant PR was compared using multivariate linear regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Both the RV/LV ratio and RVEDVi showed a correlation with PRF (r = 0.526/0.321, p = 0.001/0.041) in the correlation analysis, but in multivariate regression analysis the only independent predictor of PRF was the RV/LV ratio (F = 14.890, p = 0.001). ROC analysis revealed that a better discrimination of significant PR (>20%) from slight types (=20%) PR can be reached with the RV/LV ratio than RVEDVi (AUC = 0.805/0.709, p = 0.01). The RV/LV ratio was better than RVEDVi at differentiating mild from moderate PR (p = 0.006 vs. p = 0.153), and proved superior over RVEDVi in predicting PR based on the PRF criterion.
Effect of a More Permeable Dialysis Membrane on ESA Resistance in Hemodialysis Patients - A Pilot Investigation
Authors: Teatini Ugo , Liebchen Ariane , Nilsson Lars-Göran , Beck Werner , Romei Longhena Giorgio
Published: November 2015

Background/Aims: Hemodialysis (HD) patients often show impaired response to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs). Extended HD membrane permeability may potentially improve ESA response. Methods: Twenty-four prevalent HD patients were randomly assigned to 12 weeks use of high cut-off (HCO) membrane (in every second dialysis treatment) or continued treatment with high-flux membrane. We monitored changes in hemoglobin (Hb), ESA dose, and key biochemical markers. Results: The Hb level increased in the study group (from 11.6 ± 1.0 to 12.5 ± 1.5 g/dl; p = 0.038) but was stable in the control group. Variation over time in ESA dose and ESA resistance index did not differ between groups. HCO membrane usage for 12 weeks led to decreased hepcidin level, from 303 ± 189 to 157 ± 83 ng/ml (p = 0.024); serum albumin level decreased and stabilized 15 ± 6% below baseline. Conclusions: These results indicate that use of a more permeable dialysis membrane may improve ESA responsiveness in iron-replete HD patients. Extensive albumin removal may preclude long-term use of the HCO membrane.
HORMESIS: A Fundamental Concept with Widespread Biological and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Calabrese Edward J. , Dhawan Gaurav , Kapoor Rachna , Iavicoli Ivo , Calabrese Vittorio
Published: November 2015

Hormesis is a biphasic dose response with specific quantitative features for the amplitude and width of the stimulation. It is highly generalizable and independent of biological model, endpoint, inducing agent, level of biological organization and mechanism. Hormesis may be induced via a direct stimulation or by overcompensation to a disruption of homeostasis. The induction of hormesis by low-level stressor agents not only rapidly upregulates adaptive processes to repair damage but also protects the adapted system from damage due to a subsequent challenging dose (toxic) within a definable temporal window. The striking consistency of the amplitude of hormetic response suggests that hormesis provides a quantitative description of biological plasticity. Knowledge of hormesis has particular potential biomedical significance with respect to slowing or retarding both normal aging processes and the progression of severe neurological diseases.
Is There an Additional Value of Using Somatostatin Receptor Subtype 2a Immunohistochemistry Compared to Somatostatin Receptor Scintigraphy Uptake in Predicting Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor Response?
Authors: van Adrichem Roxanne C.S. , Kamp Kimberly , van Deurzen Carolien H.M. , Biermann Katharina , Feelders Richard A. , Franssen Gaston J.H. , Kwekkeboom Dik J. , Hofland Leo J. , de Herder Wouter W.
Published: November 2015

Background and Aims: It is unknown whether tumoral somatostatin receptor subtype 2a (sst2a) immunohistochemistry (IHC) has additional value compared to somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS) uptake using OctreoScan® in predicting response to peptide receptor radiotherapy using 177Lu-octreotate (PRRT) in patients with gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs). The aims of this study were: (1) to establish the percentage of sst2a immunopositivity in GEP-NET samples of PRRT-treated patients, (2) to determine the relationship between best GEP-NET response using RECIST 1.0 criteria 1 year after PRRT and tumoral sst2a IHC, and (3) to compare characteristics of patients with sst2a IHC-negative and -positive tumors. Methods: All 73 consecutive patients were selected for PRRT based on a positive SRS. Radiological response was scored according to RECIST 1.0 criteria. sst2a status was detected on tumor samples by IHC. Results: In total, 93% of GEP-NET samples showed sst2a IHC positivity. No statistically significant relationship was observed between in vitro sst2a expression and in vivo best GEP-NET response 1 year after PRRT (p = 0.47). Sex, primary tumor site, disease stage, ENETS TNM classification, Ki-67 index, highest serum chromogranin-A level, and highest neuron-specific enolase level were not significantly different between patients with negative and positive sst2a tumoral IHC with the exception of age at diagnosis (p = 0.007). Conclusions: sst2a IHC of tumor samples has no additional value compared to SRS uptake using OctreoScan® in predicting tumor response after PRRT.
Further Evidence for the Utility of Electrophysiological Methods for the Detection of Subclinical Stage Retinal and Optic Nerve Involvement in Diabetes
Authors: Deák Klára , Fejes Imre , Janáky Márta , Várkonyi Tamás , Benedek György , Braunitzer Gábor
Published: November 2015

Objective: To assess the utility of visual electrophysiological methods, visual evoked potentials (VEPs) and pattern electroretinograms (PERGs) were recorded for the detection of subclinical optic nerve and retinal involvement in patients with diabetes mellitus. Subjects and Methods: The data of 63 patients (126 eyes) with no vascular retinopathy or optic neuropathy were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into polyneuropathic/nonpolyneuropathic groups to differentiate between early and late subclinical stages. The recorded parameters were compared with local reference values. Results: 116 eyes (92%) had VEP and 76 (60%) had PERG abnormalities. The most frequent alteration was latency delay, but waveform and amplitude irregularities were also observed. The simultaneous use of the two methods allowed us to differentiate abnormal VEPs of purely optic nerve origin from those reflecting retinal involvement. Conclusions: We suggest that regular electrophysiological screening should receive more attention in the ophthalmological care of diabetic patients.
Should Surgical Burs Be Used as Single-Use Devices to Avoid Cross Infection? A Case-Control Study
Authors: Al-Jandan Badr A. , Ahmed Mohamed Gafar , Al-Khalifa Khalifa Sulaiman , Farooq Imran
Published: November 2015

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the rate of bacterial contamination of reused and new unused burs after different sterilization sessions. Materials and Methods: The test group consisted of 40 used fissure burs, and the control group of 40 unused new fissure burs (total n = 80). The burs from both groups were precleaned according to standard protocols and then subjected to two sterilization sessions (high- and low-steam pressure autoclaving). After each sterilization session, the burs were transferred into incubation tubes which contained thioglycollate culture medium and were monitored daily for a period of 48 h to detect any bacterial growth. Data were collected and statistical analysis was done using Fisher's exact test. Results: Of the 40 burs of the test group, 2 burs (5%) showed positive bacterial growth, whereas no bur from the control group showed any sign of bacterial growth after high-pressure autoclaving. The colony structure and Gram staining were compatible with the growth of Staphylococcus epidermis. After a second sterilization session at low-pressure steam autoclaving, no bacterial growth was observed for the test group, but 1 bur (2.5%) from the control group showed bacterial growth and Gram-positive staining matched well with the growth of Brevibacterium species. Conclusions: The new and unused burs were 100% sterile after high-pressure steam autoclaving, whereas 5% of the reused burs appeared positive with bacterial contamination. After low-pressure steam autoclaving, reused burs were 100% sterile, but 1 new bur demonstrated bacterial contamination.
Decade‐Long Trends in 30‐Day Rehospitalization Rates After Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Chen Han‐Yang , Tisminetzky Mayra , Lapane Kate L. , Yarzebski Jorge , Person Sharina D. , Kiefe Catarina I. , Gore Joel M. , Goldberg Robert J.
Published: November 2015

Background

There are limited data available describing relatively contemporary trends in 30‐day rehospitalizations among patients who survive hospitalization after an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in the community setting. We examined decade‐long (2001–2011) trends in, and factors associated with, 30‐day rehospitalizations in patients discharged from 3 central Massachusetts hospitals after
AMI
.

Methods and Results

Residents of the Worcester,
MA
, metropolitan area discharged after AMI from 3 central Massachusetts hospitals on a biennial basis between 2001 and 2011 comprised the study population (N=4810). Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the association between selected factors and 30‐day rehospitalizations. The average age of this population was 69 years, 42% were women, and 92% were white. During the years under study, 18.5% of patients were rehospitalized within 30 days after hospital discharge. Crude 30‐day rehospitalization rates decreased from 20.5% in 2001–2003 to 15.8% in 2009–2011. After adjusting for several patient characteristics, there was a reduced odds of being rehospitalized in 2009–2011 (odds ratio 0.74, 95%
CI
0.61–0.91) compared with 2001–2003; this trend was slightly attenuated after further adjustment for hospital treatment practices. Female sex, having previously diagnosed heart failure and chronic kidney disease, and the development of in‐hospital cardiogenic shock and heart failure were associated with an increased odds of being rehospitalized.

Conclusions

While the likelihood of subsequent short‐term rehospitalizations remained frequent, we observed an encouraging decline during the most recent years under study. Several high‐risk groups were identified for purposes of heightened surveillance and intervention efforts to reduce the likelihood of being readmitted.