bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observation of ultraslow stress release in silicon nitride films on CaF2
Authors: Guo Tianyi , Deen M. Jamal , Xu Changqing , Fang Qiyin , Selvaganapathy P. Ravi , Zhang Haiying
Published: June 2015

Silicon nitride thin films are deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition on (100) and (111) CaF2 crystalline substrates. Delaminated wavy buckles formed during the release of internal compressive stress in the films and the stress releasing processes are observed macroscopically and microscopically. The stress release patterns start from the substrate edges and propagate to the center along defined directions aligned with the crystallographic orientations of the substrate. The stress releasing velocity of SiNx film on (111) CaF2 is larger than that of SiNx film with the same thickness on (100) CaF2. The velocities of SiNx film on both (100) and (111) CaF2 increase with the film thickness. The stress releasing process is initiated when the films are exposed to atmosphere, but it is not a chemical change from x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Resting myocardial blood flow quantification using contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in the presence of stenosis: A computational fluid dynamics study
Authors: Sommer Karsten , Bernat Dominik , Schmidt Regine , Breit Hanns‐Christian , Schreiber Laura M.
Published: June 2015

Purpose:

The extent to which atherosclerotic plaques affect contrast agent (CA) transport in the coronary arteries and, hence, quantification of myocardial blood flow (MBF) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is unclear. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the influence of plaque induced stenosis both on CA transport and on the accuracy of MBF quantification.

Methods:

Computational fluid dynamics simulations in a high‐detailed realistic vascular model were employed to investigate CA bolus transport in the coronary arteries. The impact of atherosclerosis was analyzed by inserting various medium‐ to high‐grade stenoses in the vascular model. The influence of stenosis morphology was examined by varying the stenosis shapes but keeping the area reduction constant. Errors due to CA bolus transport were analyzed using the tracer‐kinetic model MMID4.

Results:

Dispersion of the CA bolus was found in all models and for all outlets, but with a varying magnitude. The impact of stenosis was complex: while high‐grade stenoses amplified dispersion, mild stenoses reduced the effect. Morphology was found to have a marked influence on dispersion for a small number of outlets in the post‐stenotic region. Despite this marked influence on the concentration–time curves, MBF errors were less affected by stenosis. In total, MBF was underestimated by −7.9% to −44.9%.

Conclusions:

The presented results reveal that local hemodynamics in the coronary vasculature appears to have a direct impact on CA bolus dispersion. Inclusion of atherosclerotic plaques resulted in a complex alteration of this effect, with both degree of area reduction and stenosis morphology affecting the amount of dispersion. This strong influence of vascular transport effects impairs the accuracy of MRI‐based MBF quantification techniques and, potentially, other bolus‐based perfusion measurement techniques like computed tomography perfusion imaging.
The Effects of a Goal Setting Intervention on Aerobic Fitness in Middle School Students
Authors: McDonald Samantha M. , Trost Stewart G.
Published: June 2015

Purpose:

This study evaluated the effects of a goal setting intervention on aerobic fitness (AF) in 6th to 8th grade students.

Method:

Students at the intervention school received a lesson on SMART goal setting. Students in the comparison school served as a measurement-only group. AF was assessed via the PACER multistage shuttle run test pre and post intervention. Between-group differences for change in AF were assessed using a RM ANCOVA.

Results:

A significant group by time interaction was observed for PACER performance, F(1,263) = 39.9, p < .0001. Intervention students increased PACER performance from 40.6 to 45.9 laps, while comparison students exhibited a decline from 30.2 to 23.4 laps. Intervention students were 10 times as likely as those in the comparison school to maintain Healthy Fitness Zone status or progress from Needs Improvement Zone to Healthy Fitness Zone.

Discussion:

Educating middle school students about SMART goal setting may be an effective strategy for improving aerobic fitness.
Reverse glacier motion during iceberg calving and the cause of glacial earthquakes
Authors: Murray T. , Nettles M. , Selmes N. , Cathles L. M. , Burton J. C. , James T. D. , Edwards S. , Martin I. , O’Farrell T. , Aspey R. , Rutt I. , Baugé T.
Published: June 2015

Movers and shakers

When the edge of an ice sheet breaks off and falls into the sea (calves), the remaining section of the ice sheet moves backward and down and can suffer a glacial earthquake. Murray
et al.
studied calving from Greenland's Helheim Glacier. The forces that cause the change in the motion of the ice sheet at its terminus also trigger the accompanying earthquakes. Because these seismic signals can be detected by instruments located all over the globe, it should be possible to use these glacial earthquakes as proxies for glacier calving.

Science
, this issue p.
305
Morphinan biosynthesis in opium poppy requires a P450-oxidoreductase fusion protein
Authors: Winzer Thilo , Kern Marcelo , King Andrew J. , Larson Tony R. , Teodor Roxana I. , Donninger Samantha L. , Li Yi , Dowle Adam A. , Cartwright Jared , Bates Rachel , Ashford David , Thomas Jerry , Walker Carol , Bowser Tim A. , Graham Ian A.
Published: June 2015

Substrate channeling in morphine biosynthesis

Poppies are still the most economically viable source of the excellent painkiller morphine. Winzer
et al.
have now identified a key enzyme in the poppy's biosynthetic pathway for morphine. The enzyme turns out to be an unusual protein that contains both cytochrome P-450 and oxidoreductase modules. Together these modules process two subsequent steps in the biosynthetic pathway. The identification of this enzyme may enable alternate routes for morphine biosynthesis that are less dependent on poppy cultivation.

Science
, this issue p.
309
Draft Genome Sequence of the Rice Kernel Smut
Tilletia horrida
Strain QB-1
Authors: Wang Na , Ai Peng , Tang Yangfan , Zhang Jing , Dai Xiaojuan , Li Ping , Zheng Aiping
Published: June 2015

Tilletia horrida
is the most destructive fungal pathogen of rice (
Oryza sativa
L.). The 20,105,270-bp draft genome sequence of
T. horrida
strain QB-1 is reported here. Genes encoding proteins associated with key virulence factors were predicted, and this can provide information for understanding the pathogenic mechanisms in
T. horrida
.
Whole-Genome Sequencing of Brevundimonas diminuta XGC1, Isolated from a Tuberculosis Patient in Gujarat, India
Authors: Ghosh Arpita , Chandratre Khyati , Chaudhary Abhinav , Chaudhary Spandan , Badani Namrata , Chaudhary Pooja S. , Dhawan Dipali , Vudathala Srinivas , Chikara Surendra K.
Published: June 2015

We report the draft genome of
Brevundimonas diminuta
strain XGC1, isolated from a tuberculosis-infected patient in Gujarat, India. This study also reveals that the
B. diminuta
XGC1 strain has acquired mutation to confer resistance to quinolone drugs.
Draft Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium elephantis Strain Lipa
Authors: Greninger Alexander L. , Cunningham Gail , Yu Joanna M. , Hsu Elaine D. , Chiu Charles Y. , Miller Steve
Published: June 2015

We report the draft genome sequence of
Mycobacterium elephantis
strain Lipa from a sputum sample of a patient with pulmonary disease. This is the first draft genome sequence of
M. elephantis
, a rapidly growing mycobacterium.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Streptococcus pneumoniae Avery Strain A66
Authors: Hahn Christoph , Harrison Ewan M. , Parkhill Julian , Holmes Mark A. , Paterson Gavin K.
Published: June 2015

We have used HiSeq 2000 technology to generate a draft genome sequence of
Streptococcus pneumoniae
strain A66. This is a common study strain used in investigations of pneumococcal bacterium-host interactions and was used in the seminal genetic studies of Avery et al.
From Biology to Drug Development: New Approaches to Combat the Threat of Fungal Biofilms
Authors: Pierce Christopher G. , Srinivasan Anand , Ramasubramanian Anand K. , López-Ribot José L.
Published: June 2015

Fungal infections constitute a major threat to an escalating number of critically ill patients. Fungi are eukaryotic organisms and, as such, there is a limited armamentarium of antifungal drugs, which leads to high mortality rates. Moreover, fungal infections are often associated with the formation of biofilms, which contribute to virulence and further complicate treatment due to the high level of antifungal drug resistance displayed by sessile cells within these microbial communities. Thus, the treatment of fungal infections associated with a biofilm etiology represents a formidable and unmet clinical challenge. The increasing importance and awareness of fungal biofilms is reflected by the fact that this is now an area of very active research. Studies in the last decade have provided important insights into fungal biofilm biology, physiology, and pathology, as well as into the molecular basis of biofilm resistance. Here we discuss how this accumulated knowledge may inform the development of new antibiofilm strategies and therapeutics that are urgently needed.
Mechanisms of Competition in Biofilm Communities
Authors: Rendueles Olaya , Ghigo Jean-Marc
Published: June 2015

Bacterial biofilms are dense and often mixed-species surface-attached communities in which bacteria coexist and compete for limited space and nutrients. Here we present the different antagonistic interactions described in biofilm environments and their underlying molecular mechanisms, along with ecological and evolutionary insights as to how competitive interactions arise and are maintained within biofilms.
Bacterial Extracellular Polysaccharides in Biofilm Formation and Function
Authors: Limoli Dominique H. , Jones Christopher J. , Wozniak Daniel J.
Published: June 2015

Microbes produce a biofilm matrix consisting of proteins, extracellular DNA, and polysaccharides that is integral in the formation of bacterial communities. Historical studies of polysaccharides revealed that their overproduction often alters the colony morphology and can be diagnostic in identifying certain species. The polysaccharide component of the matrix can provide many diverse benefits to the cells in the biofilm, including adhesion, protection, and structure. Aggregative polysaccharides act as molecular glue, allowing the bacterial cells to adhere to each other as well as surfaces. Adhesion facilitates the colonization of both biotic and abiotic surfaces by allowing the bacteria to resist physical stresses imposed by fluid movement that could separate the cells from a nutrient source. Polysaccharides can also provide protection from a wide range of stresses, such as desiccation, immune effectors, and predators such as phagocytic cells and amoebae. Finally, polysaccharides can provide structure to biofilms, allowing stratification of the bacterial community and establishing gradients of nutrients and waste products. This can be advantageous for the bacteria by establishing a heterogeneous population that is prepared to endure stresses created by the rapidly changing environments that many bacteria encounter. The diverse range of polysaccharide structures, properties, and roles highlight the importance of this matrix constituent to the successful adaptation of bacteria to nearly every niche. Here, we present an overview of the current knowledge regarding the diversity and benefits that polysaccharide production provides to bacterial communities within biofilms.
Saliva as the Sole Nutritional Source in the Development of Multispecies Communities in Dental Plaque
Authors: Jakubovics Nicholas S.
Published: June 2015

Dental plaque is a polymicrobial biofilm that forms on the surfaces of teeth and, if inadequately controlled, can lead to dental caries or periodontitis. Nutrient availability is the fundamental limiting factor for the formation of dental plaque, and for its ability to generate acid and erode dental enamel. Nutrient availability is also critical for bacteria to grow in subgingival biofilms and to initiate periodontitis. Over the early stages of dental plaque formation, micro-organisms acquire nutrients by breaking down complex salivary substrates such as mucins and other glycoproteins. Once dental plaque matures, dietary carbohydrates become more important for supragingival dental plaque, and gingival crevicular fluid forms the major nutrient source for subgingival microorganisms. Many species of oral bacteria do not grow in laboratory monocultures when saliva is the sole nutrient source, and it is now clear that intermicrobial interactions are critical for the development of dental plaque. This chapter aims to provide an overview of the key metabolic requirements of some well-characterized oral bacteria, and the nutrient webs that promote the growth of multispecies communities and underpin the pathogenicity of dental plaque for both dental caries and periodontitis.
Metabolism and Fitness of Urinary Tract Pathogens
Authors: Alteri Christopher J. , Mobley Harry L. T.
Published: June 2015

Among common infections, urinary tract infections (UTI) are the most frequently diagnosed urologic disease. The majority of UTIs are caused by uropathogenicEscherichia coli. The primary niche occupied byE. coliis the lower intestinal tract of mammals, where it resides as a beneficial component of the commensal microbiota. Although it is well-known thatE. coliresides in the human intestine as a harmless commensal, specific strains or pathotypes have the potential to cause a wide spectrum of intestinal and diarrheal diseases. In contrast, extraintestinalE. colipathotypes reside harmlessly in the human intestinal microenvironment but, upon access to sites outside of the intestine, become a major cause of human morbidity and mortality as a consequence of invasive UTI (pyelonephritis, bacteremia, or septicemia). Thus, extraintestinal pathotypes like uropathogenicE. coli(UPEC) possess an enhanced ability to cause infection outside of the intestinal tract and colonize the urinary tract, the bloodstream, or cerebrospinal fluid of human hosts. Due to the requirement for theseE. colito replicate in and colonize both the intestine and extraintestinal environments, we posit that physiology and metabolism of UPEC strains is paramount. Here we discuss that the ability to survive in the urinary tract depends as much on bacterial physiology and metabolism as it does on the well-considered virulence determinants.
The Biology of
Vibrio vulnificus
Authors: Oliver James D.
Published: June 2015

Vibrio vulnificus
, carrying a 50% fatality rate, is the most deadly of the foodborne pathogens. It occurs in estuarine and coastal waters and it is found in especially high numbers in oysters and other molluscan shellfish. The biology of
V. vulnificus
, including its ecology, pathogenesis, and molecular genetics, has been described in numerous reviews. This article provides a brief summary of some of the key aspects of this important human pathogen, including information on biotypes and genotypes, virulence factors, risk factor requirements and the role of iron in disease, association with oysters, geographic distribution, importance of salinity and water temperature, increasing incidence associated with global warming. This article includes some of our findings as presented at the “Vibrios in the Environment 2010” conference held in Biloxi, MS.
Effects of Global Warming onVibrioEcology
Authors: Vezzulli Luigi , Pezzati Elisabetta , Brettar Ingrid , Höfle Manfred , Pruzzo Carla
Published: June 2015

Vibrio-related infections are increasing worldwide both in humans and aquatic animals. Rise in global sea surface temperature (SST), which is approximately 1°C higher now than 140 years ago and is one of the primary physical impacts of global warming, has been linked to such increases. In this chapter, major known effects of increasing SST on the biology and ecology of vibrios are described. They include the effects on bacterial growth rate, both in the field and in laboratory, culturability, expression of pathogenicity traits, and interactions with aquatic organisms and abiotic surfaces. Special emphasis is given to the effect of ocean warming onVibriointeractions with zooplankters, which represent one of the most important aquatic reservoirs for these bacteria. The reported findings highlight the biocomplexity of the interactions between vibrios and their natural environment in a climate change scenario, posing the need for interdisciplinary studies to properly understand the connection between ocean warming and persistence and spread of vibrios in sea waters and the epidemiology of the diseases they cause.
Genetics of Natural Competence in
Vibrio cholerae
and other Vibrios
Authors: Antonova Elena S. , Hammer Brian K.
Published: June 2015

Many Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria can become naturally competent to take up extracellular DNA from the environment via a dedicated uptake apparatus. The genetic material that is acquired can (i) be used for nutrients, (ii) aid in genome repair, and (iii) promote horizontal gene transfer when incorporated onto the genome by homologous recombination, the process of “transformation.” Recent studies have identified multiple environmental cues sufficient to induce natural transformation in
Vibrio cholerae
and several other
Vibrio
species. In
V. cholerae
, nutrient limitation activates the cAMP receptor protein regulator, quorum-sensing signals promote synthesis of HapR-controlled QstR, chitin stimulates production of TfoX, and low extracellular nucleosides allow CytR to serve as an additional positive regulator. The network of signaling systems that trigger expression of each of these required regulators is well described, but the mechanisms by which each in turn controls competence apparatus genes is poorly understood. Recent work has defined a minimal set of genes that encode apparatus components and begun to characterize the architecture of the machinery by fluorescence microscopy. While studies with a small set of
V. cholerae
reference isolates have identified regulatory and competence genes required for DNA uptake, future studies may identify additional genes and regulatory connections, as well as revealing how common natural competence is among diverse
V. cholerae
isolates and other
Vibrio
species.
Knowledge and attitudes of school teachers, preschool teachers and students in teacher training about epilepsy and emergency management of seizures
Authors: Dumeier Henriette K , Neininger Martina P , Bernhard Matthias K , Syrbe Steffen , Merkenschlager Andreas , Zabel Jörg , Kiess Wieland , Bertsche Thilo , Bertsche Astrid
Published: June 2015

Problem

School and preschool teachers play a key role in the care of children with epilepsy. Yet, data about their knowledge on epilepsy are scarce.

Methods

Assessment of knowledge and attitudes towards epilepsy in teachers by conducting a questionnaire survey in Leipzig and Blankenburg, Germany, from August 2013 to January 2014.

Results

1243 questionnaires were completed by 302 school teachers, 883 preschool teachers, 56 students and two unclassified participants. Of the respondents, 140 (11%) stated to have already been actively involved in an epilepsy emergency situation, another 148 (12%) as observers. Only 214 (17%) of respondents felt sufficiently prepared for an emergency. A rescue medication had already been applied by 79 (6%) of respondents; only 186 respondents (15%) stated they would be willing to administer a prescribed rescue medication under any circumstances. In response to an open-ended question about the most common fatal outcomes of a seizure, status epilepticus and drowning were rarely mentioned. 233 (19%) of respondents assumed that epileptic seizures cannot result in death. 606 (49%) of respondents were concerned about the legal repercussions to an incorrect response to a seizure.129/403 (32%) of teachers with >20 years of professional experience claimed never to have had a child suffering from epilepsy in their care, even though the prevalence of childhood epilepsy indicates that they should. In total, 1066 (86%) respondents expressed a desire to gain more knowledge on epilepsy.

Conclusions

Training programmes for teachers should be established. Furthermore, a clear legal regulatory framework needs to be set up.
Lessons learnt from a cluster-randomised trial evaluating the effectiveness of Self-Management Support (SMS) delivered by practice nurses in routine diabetes care
Authors: van Dijk-de Vries Anneke , van Bokhoven Marloes A , Winkens Bjorn , Terluin Berend , Knottnerus J André , van der Weijden Trudy , van Eijk Jacques Th M
Published: June 2015

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of biopsychosocial Self-Management Support (SMS) delivered by practice nurses in routine diabetes care.

Design

A pragmatic cluster-randomised controlled trial within a hybrid effectiveness-implementation study design. Practice nurses were cluster-randomised.

Setting

A regional care group in the Netherlands consisting of 77 family practices. The study involved practice nurses (n=40) providing care to approximately 4000 patients with diabetes.

Participants

Patients with type 2 diabetes (n=264) selected by a self-administered questionnaire aimed at measuring emotional distress and diabetes-related reduced daily functioning.

Intervention

Practice nurses in the intervention arm (n=19) were trained to integrate SMS into their routine consultations. SMS included detection of patients with emotional distress and reduced daily functioning, and supporting them when needed through problem solving and reattribution techniques. Practice nurses in the control arm (n=21) provided usual care.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome measure was a dichotomised score on a Visual Analogue Scale that measured the perceived effect of diabetes on daily functioning. Secondary measures included patients’ diabetes-related distress, quality of life, autonomy and participation, self-efficacy, self-management and glycaemic control. Outcomes were measured at baseline and at 4-month and 12-month follow-ups.

Results

Only 16 of the 117 patients in the intervention arm (14%) who were found eligible by the posted research-driven screening questionnaire were detected by their practice nurses. Extra consultations for the self-management support were delivered to only 11 study participants. In the control arm, 147 patients received usual care. Multilevel analyses showed no significant differences in outcomes between the intervention and control arms.

Conclusions

SMS in its present form was not effective. The research-driven screening to select trial participants appeared to be inconsistent with nurse-led detection in routine practice. Adequate follow-up moments need to be built in to overcome barriers resulting from tension between the implementation and effectiveness parts of hybrid studies.

Trial registration number

Current Controlled Trials NTR2764.
Prayer or spiritual healing as adjuncts to conventional care: a cross sectional analysis of prevalence and characteristics of use among women
Authors: Rao Angela , Sibbritt David , Phillips Jane L , Hickman Louise D
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and characteristics of users of prayer or spiritual healing among women.

Design and setting

This cross sectional study was conducted as a part of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH), a 20-year study that examines various factors affecting women's health and well-being.

Participants

The sample used in the current study were women from the 1946–1951 cohort (n=9965) (59–64 years) who were surveyed in 2010.

Outcome measures

Use of prayer or spiritual healing; demographic factors and measures of health status. χ2Tests, analyses of variance (to determine associations) and a stepwise backward logistic regression model (for the most significant predictors) using a likelihood ratio test were used to determine the outcome measures.

Results

It is estimated that 26% of Australian women from the 1946–1951 cohort (aged 59–64 years) use prayer or spiritual healing on a regular basis. Women were significantly more likely to use prayer or spiritual healing if they were non-smokers, non-drinkers or low-risk drinkers, had symptoms of severe tiredness (OR 1.25; 95% CI 1.12 to 1.40), depression, (OR 1.30; 95% CI 1.11 to 1.53), anxiety (OR 1.33; 95% CI 1.15 to 1.53), diagnosed cancer (OR 1.84; 95% CI 1.28 to 2.65) or other major illnesses (OR 1.43; 95% CI 1.18 to 1.75) and used other complementary therapies.

Conclusions

A significant proportion of adult women are using prayer or spiritual healing. Given that prayer or spiritual healing was significantly associated with health symptoms, chronic illnesses and positive health seeking behaviours, respect for prayer or spiritual healing practices is required within health care settings. Future research is recommended around specific populations using prayer or spiritual healing, reasons for their use and potential benefits on health related outcomes and general well-being.
A pilot randomised controlled trial of personalised care after treatment for prostate cancer (TOPCAT-P): nurse-led holistic-needs assessment and individualised psychoeducational intervention: study protocol
Authors: Stanciu Marian Andrei , Morris Caroline , Makin Matt , Watson Eila , Bulger Jenna , Evans Richard , Hiscock Julia , Hoare Zoë , Edwards Rhiannon Tudor , Neal Richard David , Wilkinson Clare
Published: June 2015

Introduction

Prostate cancer is common and the incidence is increasing, but more men are living longer after diagnosis, and die with their disease rather than of it. Nonetheless, specific and substantial physical, sexual, emotional and mental health problems often lead to a poor quality of life. Urology services increasingly struggle to cope with the demands of follow-up care, and primary care is likely to play the central role in long-term follow-up. The present phase II trial will evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a nurse-led, person-centred psychoeducational intervention, delivered in community or primary care settings.

Methods and analysis

Prostate cancer survivors diagnosed in the past 9–48 months and currently biochemically stable will be identified from hospital records by their treating clinician. Eligible men would have either completed radical treatment, or would be followed up with prostate specific antigen monitoring and symptom reporting. We will recruit 120 patients who will be randomised to receive either an augmented form of usual care, or an additional nurse-led intervention for a period of 36 weeks. Following the health policy in Wales, the intervention is offered by a key worker, is promoting prudent healthcare and is using a holistic needs assessment. Outcome measures will assess physical symptoms, psychological well-being, confidence in managing own health and quality of life. Healthcare service use will be measured over 36 weeks. Feedback interviews with patients and clinicians will further inform the acceptability of the intervention. Recruitment, attrition, questionnaire completion rates and outcome measures variability will be assessed, and results will inform the design of a future phase III trial and accompanying economic evaluation.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was granted by Bangor University and North Wales REC (13/WA/0291). Results will be reported in peer-reviewed publications, at scientific conferences, and directly through national cancer and primary care networks.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN 34516019.
Design and characteration of planar star-shaped oligomer electron donors for organic solar cells: a DFT study
Authors: Wang Dongmei , Geng Zhiyuan
Published: June 2015

To seek high-performance oligomer donor materials used in organic solar cells, four star-shaped molecules with a planar donor core derived from the recent reported molecule 3T-P-DPP (phenyl-1,3,5-trithienyl-diketopyrrolopyrrole) were designed. The molecular properties affecting the cell performance, such as structural characteristics, frontier molecular orbital energy level, absorption spectra, exciton character, and charge transfer/transport, were investigated by means of the density functional theory and time-dependent density functional theory methods. Comparative analysis showed that the new designed molecule 3 with a TTT (2,4,6-tri(thiophen-2-yl)-1,3,5-triazine) core has better planarity, a lower HOMO energy level, and a higher absorption efficiency, as well as more favorable exciton dissociation and charge transfer than the others, potentially improving the open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current density. Consequently, 3 maybe superior to 3T-P-DPP and may act as a promising donor material candidate for organic solar cells.
The Determinants of Choosing Traditional Korean Medicine or Conventional Medicine: Findings from the Korea Health Panel
Authors: Choi Ji Heon , Kang Sungwook , You Chang Hoon , Kwon Young Dae
Published: June 2015

The purpose of this study is to identify key factors that determine a person’s decision to seek treatment from traditional Korean medicine (TKM) instead of conventional medicine through analysis of nationally representative data from Korea, where a dual healthcare system exists. The analysis is based on episodic data from the 2008 and 2009 Korea Health Panel. The main dependent variable is the selection between TKM and conventional medicine. We used a multiple logistic regression model to identify the determinants of TKM while controlling for clustered error. Approximately 5% of all doctor’s visits were characterized as TKM services. Urban residents were 1.441 times more likely to use TKM than rural residentsP=0.001. The probability of choosing TKM over conventional medicine for a range of conditions compared to the reference condition (gastrointestinal disease) was as follows: circulatory system diseases (OR 5.267,P<0.001), nervous system diseases (OR 12.054,P<0.001), musculoskeletal system diseases (OR 20.579,P<0.001), and neoplasms (OR 0.209,P=0.004). Certain diseases are significantly more likely to be treated by TKM than by conventional medicine. This suggests that many people view TKM as being additionally effective for specific diseases, particularly musculoskeletal disorders.
Predicting Equivalent Static Density of Fuzzy Ball Drilling Fluid by BP Artificial Neutral Network
Authors: Yang Chen , Wang Zhaohong , Zheng Lihui , Mao Dengtian
Published: June 2015

A back-propagation artificial neutral network model is built based on 220 groups of PVT experimental data to predict the equivalent static density versus depth for fuzzy ball drilling fluid which is a kind of gas-liquid two-phase material. The model is applied in the Mo80-C well located in Sichuan Province of China; the maximum relative error between calculated results and measured data is less than 2%. By comparing with the multiple regression model, the present model has a higher precision and flexibility. The equivalent static density of fuzzy ball drilling fluid from ground to the depth of 6000 m is predicted by the present model, and the results show that the equivalent static density of fuzzy ball drilling fluid will decrease slowly with the growth of depth, which indicates that the gas cores of the fuzzy balls still can exist as deep as 6000 m.
Cyanobacteria: Photoautotrophic Microbial Factories for the Sustainable Synthesis of Industrial Products
Authors: Lau Nyok-Sean , Matsui Minami , Abdullah Amirul Al-Ashraf
Published: June 2015

Cyanobacteria are widely distributed Gram-negative bacteria with a long evolutionary history and the only prokaryotes that perform plant-like oxygenic photosynthesis. Cyanobacteria possess several advantages as hosts for biotechnological applications, including simple growth requirements, ease of genetic manipulation, and attractive platforms for carbon neutral production process. The use of photosynthetic cyanobacteria to directly convert carbon dioxide to biofuels is an emerging area of interest. Equipped with the ability to degrade environmental pollutants and remove heavy metals, cyanobacteria are promising tools for bioremediation and wastewater treatment. Cyanobacteria are characterized by the ability to produce a spectrum of bioactive compounds with antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antialgal properties that are of pharmaceutical and agricultural significance. Several strains of cyanobacteria are also sources of high-value chemicals, for example, pigments, vitamins, and enzymes. Recent advances in biotechnological approaches have facilitated researches directed towards maximizing the production of desired products in cyanobacteria and realizing the potential of these bacteria for various industrial applications. In this review, the potential of cyanobacteria as sources of energy, bioactive compounds, high-value chemicals, and tools for aquatic bioremediation and recent progress in engineering cyanobacteria for these bioindustrial applications are discussed.
Existence of Exponentialp-Stability Nonconstant Equilibrium of Markovian Jumping Nonlinear Diffusion Equations via Ekeland Variational Principle
Authors: Rao Ruofeng , Zhong Shouming
Published: June 2015

The authors obtained a delay-dependent exponentialp-stability criterion for a class of Markovian jumping nonlinear diffusion equations by employing the Lyapunov stability theory and some variational methods. As far as we know, it is the first time to apply Ekeland variational principle to obtain the existence of exponential stability equilibrium ofp-Laplacian dynamic system so that some methods used in this paper are different from those methods of many previous related literatures. In addition, the obtained existence criterion is only involved in the activation functions so that the criterion is simpler and easier than other existence criteria to be verified in practical application. Moreover, a numerical example shows the effectiveness of the proposed methods owing to the large allowable variation range of time-delay.
Bernese Periacetabular Osteotomy in a Hip Extra-Articular Resection Followed by Reconstruction Using an Extracorporeal Irradiated Acetabulum Autograft with Megaprosthesis, for Proximal Femur Osteosarcoma in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Barro Victor , Velez Roberto , Pacha Daniel , Giralt Jordi , Roca Isabel , Aguirre Marius
Published: June 2015

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant tumour of bone. The oncologic surgery of a proximal femur osteosarcoma affecting the hip joint can be very challenging. We present an 8-year-old boy with a 5-month history of right hip pain. Radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a lytic lesion of the proximal femur extending 13 cm to the diaphysis. Histological evaluation was consistent with high-grade osteoblastic osteosarcoma. After completing chemotherapy we performed an extra-articular resection of the hip. Reconstruction was accomplished by reimplanting the acetabulum after irradiation and modular proximal femur megaprosthesis. Endoprosthetic reconstruction following proximal femur resection is a good treatment alternative achieving good postoperative function. Extra-articular resection of the hip using a periacetabular osteotomy technique enabled us to achieve wide margins and leave an intact posterior column to optimize acetabular reconstruction stability. Extracorporeal irradiation and reimplantation is a valuable treatment option in a situation such as this where allograft geometric fit is a priority. We conclude that an extra-articular resection of the hip, followed by reconstruction with an extracorporeally irradiated acetabulum and a proximal femur modular megaprosthesis, is a useful combined treatment option for malignant lesions involving the hip joint, especially in paediatric patients.
External Quality Assessment for the Detection of Chlamydia trachomatis in Urine Using Molecular Techniques in Belgium
Authors: China Bernard , Vernelen Kris
Published: June 2015

Chlamydia trachomatis is a major cause of sexually transmitted bacterial disease worldwide. C. trachomatis is an intracellular bacterium and its growth in vitro requires cell culture facilities. The diagnosis is based on antigen detection and more recently on molecular nucleic acid amplification techniques (NAAT) that are considered fast, sensitive, and specific. In Belgium, External Quality Assessment (EQA) for the detection of C. trachomatis in urine by NAAT was introduced in 2008. From January 2008 to June 2012, nine surveys were organized. Fifty-eight laboratories participated in at least one survey. The EQA panels included positive and negative samples. The overall accuracy was 75.4%, the overall specificity was 97.6%, and the overall sensitivity was 71.4%. Two major issues were observed: the low sensitivity (45.3%) for the detection of low concentration samples and the incapacity of several methods to detect the Swedish variant of C. trachomatis. The reassuring point was that the overall proficiency of the Belgian laboratories tended to improve over time.
Intranasal Dexmedetomidine on Stress Hormones, Inflammatory Markers, and Postoperative Analgesia after Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Tang Chaoliang , Huang Xiang , Kang Fang , Chai Xiaoqing , Wang Song , Yin Guobing , Wang Hongtao , Li Juan
Published: June 2015

Background. A strong ongoing intraoperative stress response can cause serious adverse reactions and affect the postoperative outcome. This study evaluated the effect of intranasally administered dexmedetomidine (DEX) in combination with local anesthesia (LA) on the relief of stress and the inflammatory response during functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). Methods. Sixty patients undergoing FESS were randomly allocated to receive either intranasal DEX (DEX group) or intranasal saline (Placebo group) 1 h before surgery. Stress hormones, inflammatory markers, postoperative pain relief, hemodynamic variables, blood loss, surgical field quality, body movements, and satisfaction were assessed. Results. Plasma epinephrine, norepinephrine, and blood glucose levels were significantly lower in DEX group as were the plasma IL‐6 and TNF‐α levels (P < 0.05). The weighted areas under the curve (AUCw) of the VAS scores were also significantly lower in DEX group at 2–12 h after surgery (P < 0.001). Furthermore, hemodynamic variables, blood loss, body movements, discomfort with hemostatic stuffing, surgical field quality, and satisfaction scores of patients and surgeons were significantly better (P < 0.05) in DEX group. Conclusions. Patients receiving intranasal DEX with LA for FESS exhibited less perioperative stress and inflammatory response as well as better postoperative comfort with hemostatic stuffing and analgesia.
Activation-Induced Cytidine Deaminase Contributes to Pancreatic Tumorigenesis by Inducing Tumor-Related Gene Mutations
Authors: Sawai Yugo , Kodama Yuzo , Shimizu Takahiro , Ota Yuji , Maruno Takahisa , Eso Yuji , Kurita Akira , Shiokawa Masahiro , Tsuji Yoshihisa , Uza Norimitsu , Matsumoto Yuko , Masui Toshihiko , Uemoto Shinji , Marusawa Hiroyuki , Chiba Tsutomu
Published: June 2015

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) develops via an accumulation of various gene mutations. The mechanism underlying the mutations in PDAC development, however, is not fully understood. Recent insight into the close association between the mutation pattern of various cancers and specific mutagens led us to investigate the possible involvement of activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID), a DNA editing enzyme, in pancreatic tumorigenesis. Our immunohistochemical findings revealed AID protein expression in human acinar ductal metaplasia, pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia, and PDAC. Both the amount and intensity of the AID protein expression increased with the progression from precancerous to cancerous lesions in human PDAC tissues. To further assess the significance of ectopic epithelial AID expression in pancreatic tumorigenesis, we analyzed the phenotype of AID transgenic (AID Tg) mice. Consistent with our hypothesis that AID is involved in the mechanism of the mutations underlying pancreatic tumorigenesis, we found precancerous lesions developing in the pancreas of AID Tg mice. Using deep sequencing, we also detected Kras and c-Myc mutations in our analysis of the whole pancreas of AID Tg mice. In addition, Sanger sequencing confirmed the presence of Kras, c-Myc, and Smad4 mutations, with the typical mutational footprint of AID in precancerous lesions in AID Tg mice separated by laser capture microdissection. Taken together, our findings suggest that AID contributes to the development of pancreatic precancerous lesions by inducing tumor-related gene mutations. Our new mouse model without intentional manipulation of specific tumor-related genes provides a powerful system for analyzing the mutations involved in PDAC. Cancer Res; 75(16); 3292–301. ©2015 AACR.
A Polymer-Based Antibody–Vinca Drug Conjugate Platform: Characterization and Preclinical Efficacy
Authors: Yurkovetskiy Alexander V. , Yin Mao , Bodyak Natalya , Stevenson Cheri A. , Thomas Joshua D. , Hammond Charles E. , Qin LiuLiang , Zhu Bangmin , Gumerov Dmitry R. , Ter-Ovanesyan Elena , Uttard Alex , Lowinger Timothy B.
Published: June 2015

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADC) are an emerging drug class that uses antibodies to improve cytotoxic drug targeting for cancer treatment. ADCs in current clinical trials achieve a compromise between potency and physicochemical/pharmacokinetic properties by conjugating potent cytotoxins directly to an antibody at a 4:1 or less stoichiometric ratio. Herein, we report a novel, polyacetal polymer-based platform for creating ADC that use poly-1-hydroxymethylethylene hydroxymethyl-formal (PHF), also known as Fleximer. The high hydrophilicity and polyvalency properties of the Fleximer polymer can be used to produce ADC with high drug loading without compromising physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties. Using trastuzumab and a vinca drug derivative to demonstrate the utility of this platform, a novel Fleximer-based ADC was prepared and characterized in vivo. The ADC prepared had a vinca-antibody ratio of 20:1. It exhibited a high antigen-binding affinity, an excellent pharmacokinetic profile and antigen-dependent efficacy, and tumor accumulation in multiple tumor xenograft models. Our findings illustrate the robust utility of the Fleximer platform as a highly differentiated alternative to the conjugation platforms used to create ADC currently in clinical development. Cancer Res; 75(16); 3365–72. ©2015 AACR.
Tumor Suppressor Activity of Klotho in Breast Cancer Is Revealed by Structure–Function Analysis
Authors: Ligumsky Hagai , Rubinek Tami , Merenbakh-Lamin Keren , Yeheskel Adva , Sertchook Rotem , Shahmoon Shiri , Aviel-Ronen Sarit , Wolf Ido
Published: June 2015

Klotho is a transmembrane protein containing two internal repeats, KL1 and KL2, both displaying significant homology to members of the β-glycosidase family. Klotho is expressed in the kidney, brain, and various endocrine tissues, but can also be cleaved and act as a circulating hormone. Klotho is an essential cofactor for binding of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) to the FGF receptor and can also inhibit the insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) pathway. Data from a wide array of malignancies indicate klotho as a tumor suppressor; however, the structure–function relationships governing its tumor suppressor activities have not been deciphered. Here, the tumor suppressor activities of the KL1 and KL2 domains were examined. Overexpression of either klotho or KL1, but not of KL2, inhibited colony formation by MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Moreover, in vivo administration of KL1 was not only well tolerated but significantly slowed tumor formation in nude mice. Further studies indicated that KL1, but not KL2, interacted with the IGF-1R and inhibited the IGF-1 pathway. Based on computerized structural modeling, klotho constructs were generated in which critical amino acids have been mutated. Interestingly, the mutated proteins retained their tumor suppressor activity but showed reduced ability to modulate FGF23 signaling. These data indicate differential activity of the klotho domains, KL1 and KL2, in breast cancer and reveal that the tumor suppressor activities of klotho can be dissected from its physiologic activities.

Implications: These findings pave the way for a rational design of safe klotho-based molecules for the treatment of breast cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 13(10); 1398–407. ©2015 AACR.
Extracellular Vesicles Present in Human Ovarian Tumor Microenvironments Induce a Phosphatidylserine-Dependent Arrest in the T-cell Signaling Cascade
Authors: Kelleher Raymond J. , Balu-Iyer Sathy , Loyall Jenni , Sacca Anthony J. , Shenoy Gautam N. , Peng Peng , Iyer Vandana , Fathallah Anas M. , Berenson Charles S. , Wallace Paul K. , Tario Joseph , Odunsi Kunle , Bankert Richard B.
Published: June 2015

The identification of immunosuppressive factors within human tumor microenvironments, and the ability to block these factors, would be expected to enhance patients' antitumor immune responses. We previously established that an unidentified factor, or factors, present in ovarian tumor ascites fluids reversibly inhibited the activation of T cells by arresting the T-cell signaling cascade. Ultracentrifugation of the tumor ascites fluid has now revealed a pellet that contains small extracellular vesicles (EV) with an average diameter of 80 nm. The T-cell arrest was determined to be causally linked to phosphatidylserine (PS) that is present on the outer leaflet of the vesicle bilayer, as a depletion of PS-expressing EV or a blockade of PS with anti-PS antibody significantly inhibits the vesicle-induced signaling arrest. The inhibitory EV were also isolated from solid tumor tissues. The presence of immunosuppressive vesicles in the microenvironments of ovarian tumors and our ability to block their inhibition of T-cell function represent a potential therapeutic target for patients with ovarian cancer. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(11); 1269–78. ©2015 AACR.
Relationship between Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Left Ventricular Free Wall Rupture in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Ipek Gokturk , Onuk Tolga , Karatas Mehmet Baran , Güngör Barış , Atasoy Isıl , Murat Ahmet , Aldag Mustafa , Yelgec Nizamettin Selcuk , Dayi Sennur Unal , Bolca Osman
Published: June 2015

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte (N/L) ratio and left ventricular free wall rupture (LVFWR) in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Previous studies showed a correlation between increased levels of inflammatory markers and adverse cardiovascular events. The role of inflammation markers, particularly the N/L ratio, in mechanical complications after myocardial infarction has not been studied. Methods: Retrospectively, we compared the N/L ratio values of 23 patients with STEMI complicated by LVFWR with 214 STEMI patients without this complication. The diagnosis of rupture was confirmed by echocardiography in each case. Results: Neutrophil counts [median 8.5 × 103/µl, interquartile range (IQR) 6.4, vs. 7.8 × 103/µl, IQR 4.7, p = 0.02] and the N/L ratio (5.66, IQR 4.17, vs. 4.1, IQR 3.93, p = 0.01) were significantly higher in the LVFWR group. In receiver operating characteristic analysis, an N/L ratio above 3.7 predicted LVFWR with a sensitivity of 82.6% and a specificity of 46.9% (area under the curve = 0.654, p = 0.016). In multivariate regression analysis, age, hypertension, increased creatinine levels and increased N/L ratio (odds ratio = 1.61, 95% confidence interval = 1.15-2.23, p = 0.01) were found to be independent predictors of LVFWR. Conclusions: In our study, the N/L ratio was found to be independently correlated with the risk of LVFWR.