bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA Regulation of Endothelial Junction Proteins and Clinical Consequence
Authors: Zhuang Yugang , Peng Hu , Mastej Victoria , Chen Weiguo
Published: November 2016

Cellular junctions play a critical role in structural connection and signal communication between cells in various tissues. Although there are structural and functional varieties, cellular junctions include tight junctions, adherens junctions, focal adhesion junctions, and tissue specific junctions such as PECAM-1 junctions in endothelial cells (EC), desmosomes in epithelial cells, and hemidesmosomes in EC. Cellular junction dysfunction and deterioration are indicative of clinical diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNA) are ~20 nucleotide, noncoding RNAs that play an important role in posttranscriptional regulation for almost all genes. Unsurprisingly, miRNAs regulate junction protein gene expression and control junction structure integrity. In contrast, abnormal miRNA regulation of junction protein gene expression results in abnormal junction structure, causing related diseases. The major components of tight junctions include zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1), claudin-1, claudin-5, and occludin. The miRNA regulation of ZO-1 has been intensively investigated. ZO-1 and other tight junction proteins such as claudin-5 and occludin were positively regulated by miR-126, miR-107, and miR21 in different models. In contrast, ZO-1, claudin-5, and occludin were negatively regulated by miR-181a, miR-98, and miR150. Abnormal tight junction miRNA regulation accompanies cerebral middle artery ischemia, brain trauma, glioma metastasis, and so forth. The major components of adherens junctions include VE-cadherin, β-catenin, plakoglobin, P120, and vinculin. VE-cadherin and β-catenin were regulated by miR-9, miR-99b, miR-181a, and so forth. These regulations directly affect VE-cadherin-β-catenin complex stability and further affect embryo and tumor angiogenesis, vascular development, and so forth. miR-155 and miR-126 have been shown to regulate PECAM-1 and affect neutrophil rolling and EC junction integrity. In focal adhesion junctions, the major components are integrin β4, paxillin, and focal adhesion kinase (FAK). Integrin β4 has been regulated by miR-184, miR-205, and miR-9. Paxillin has been regulated by miR-137, miR-145, and miR-218 in different models. FAK has been regulated by miR-7, miR-138, and miR-135. Deregulation of miRNAs is caused by viral infections, tumorigenesis, and so forth. By regulation of posttranscription, miRNAs manipulate junction protein expression in all cellular processes and further determine cellular fate and development. Elucidation of these regulatory mechanisms will become a new alternative therapy for many diseases, such as cancers and inflammatory diseases.
Reachable Set Estimation for Discrete-Time Systems with Interval Time-Varying Delays and Bounded Disturbances
Authors: Zhao Jiemei , Sheng Yin
Published: November 2016

The reachable set estimation problem for discrete-time systems with delay-range-dependent and bounded disturbances is investigated. A triple-summation term, the upper bound, and the lower bound of time-varying delay are introduced into the Lyapunov function. In this case, an improved delay-range-dependent criterion is established for the addressed problem by constructing the appropriate Lyapunov functional, which guarantees that the reachable set of discrete-time systems with time-varying delay and bounded peak inputs is contained in the ellipsoid. It is worth mentioning that the initial value of the system does not need to be zero. Then, the reachable set estimation problem for time-delay systems with polytopic uncertainties is investigated. The effectiveness and the reduced conservatism of the derived results are demonstrated by an illustrative example.
The Roles of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathways in Human Pheochromocytomas
Authors: Du Juan , Tong Anli , Wang Fen , Cui Yunying , Li Chunyan , Zhang Yushi , Yan Zhaoli
Published: November 2016

Objectives. The roles of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and MAPK/ERK pathways involved in the pathogenesis of pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PPGL) were demonstrated mostly by in vitro studies with rat or mouse cells and were mainly studied at transcriptional level. This study aimed to investigate the effect of these pathways on the proliferation of human PPGL cells and the activation of these pathways in PPGLs. Methods. Human PPGL cells were treated with sunitinib and inhibitors of PI3K (LY294002), MEK1/2 (U0126), and mTORC1/2 (AZD8055). Cell proliferation was detected by MTT assay. Protein phosphorylation was detected by Western blotting. Results. In most PPGLs, AKT, ERK1/2, and mTOR were activated. LY294002 (10 μM), U0126 (10 μM), AZD8055 (1 μM), and sunitinib (1 μM) inhibited PPGL cell proliferation in ten primary cultures of tissues, including four from patients with gene mutations. MEK1/2 inhibitor decreased mTOR phosphorylation. Inhibition of mTOR reduced phosphorylation of AKT and ERK1/2. Sunitinib inhibited phospho-ERK1/2 and phospho-mTOR. Conclusion. Our study suggested that PI3K/AKT/mTOR and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways play vital roles in human PPGL and are activated in most PPGLs. Inhibiting multiple pathways might be a novel therapeutic approach for PPGLs.
Biological and Social Determinants of Fertility Behaviour among the Jat Women of Haryana State, India
Authors: Chandiok Ketaki , Mondal Prakash Ranjan , Mahajan Chakraverti , Saraswathy Kallur Nava
Published: November 2016

Fertility is a way through which human beings biologically replace themselves in order to continue their existence on earth. The present paper therefore attempts to study the factors affecting fertility among the Jat women of Haryana state. A household survey was conducted in 15 villages of Palwal district in which the concentration of Jats was found to be highest and 1014 ever married women were interviewed. Age at marriage, present age, education status, family type, and preference for male child were the most important factors that affected fertility in the studied population. Age at menarche, age at first conception, occupation status, use of birth control measures, and household per capita annual income did not affect the fertility in the studied population.
A Variational Approach to Perturbed Discrete Anisotropic Equations
Authors: Salari Amjad , Caristi Giuseppe , Barilla David , Puglisi Alfio
Published: November 2016

We continue the study of discrete anisotropic equations and we will provide new multiplicity results of the solutions for a discrete anisotropic equation. We investigate the existence of infinitely many solutions for a perturbed discrete anisotropic boundary value problem. The approach is based on variational methods and critical point theory.
Metformin Prevents Nonunion after Three-Cannulated-Screw Fixation in Displaced Femoral Neck Fractures: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Zhu Xiao-zhong , Zheng Xian-you
Published: November 2016

Patients aged from 40 to 60 with displaced fractures of the femoral neck (Garden III or IV) who received fixation with three cannulated screws from January 2005 to December 2012 were evaluated retrospectively for the development of nonunion. Plasma HbA1C, a marker for long-term plasma glucose level, anti-T2DM medication, and other potential risk factors were recorded for the purpose of this study. There were no differences between the union and nonunion groups with respect to age, gender, Garden classification, Pauwel’s angle, reduction quality, and T2DM presence. There were significant differences in reduction quality and preoperative plasma HbA1C level between patients with and those without union. The odds ratio (OR) for fracture nonunion was 2.659 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.530–4.620) in subjects with anatomical reduction compared with those without anatomical reduction, 4.797 (95% CI, 1.371–16.778), in subjects with poor blood glucose control (HbA1C > 10%). The metformin usage showed a preventive effect on nonunion development (OR: 0.193 and CI: 0.060–0.616). The nonunion rate of metformin group (6.7%, 6/89) was even much lower than that of patients without T2DM (17.4%, 80/460).
The Effect of Epidural Analgesia on the Delivery Outcome of Induced Labour: A Retrospective Case Series
Authors: Antonakou Angeliki , Papoutsis Dimitrios
Published: November 2016

Objective. To investigate whether the use of epidural analgesia during induced labour was a risk factor for instrumental vaginal delivery and caesarean section (CS) delivery. Study Design. This was a retrospective case series of primigravidae women being induced at term for all indications with a normal body mass index (BMI) at booking and under the age of 40 years. Results. We identified 1,046 women who fulfilled the inclusion criteria of which 31.2% had an epidural analgesia. Those with an epidural analgesia had significantly greater maternal age, higher BMI, greater percentage of oxytocin usage, and a longer first and second stage of labour. Women with an epidural analgesia had a higher instrumental delivery (37.9% versus 16.4%; p<0.001) and CS delivery rate (26% versus 10.1%; p<0.001). Multivariable analysis indicated that the use of an epidural was not a risk factor for a CS delivery but was a risk factor for an instrument-assisted delivery (adjusted OR = 3.63; 95% CI: 2.51–5.24; p<0.001). Conclusion. Our study supports the literature evidence that the use of an epidural increases the instrumental delivery rates. It has also added that there is no effect on CS delivery and the observed increase is due to the presence of confounding factors.
Factors Associated with Successful Mentoring of Parents Addressing Childhood Obesity: A Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Villanueva Gabriela Abigail , Foster Byron Alexander
Published: November 2016

Objective. Parents mentoring other parents as a behavioral intervention for child obesity is novel with limited data describing the experience and dynamics of this approach. This study aimed to describe the experiences of parent mentors and the self-efficacy and attitudes of their mentees in the context of a clinical trial for childhood obesity.Methods. The context for this study was a randomized clinical trial using either parent mentors or a community health worker engaging parents of obese children in behavioral change over six months. Parent mentors were interviewed at the mid-point of the intervention using a semistructured questionnaire to elicit their perceptions and experiences during the process of mentoring. Parent mentees completed a survey assessing their self-efficacy, perception of the parent mentor, and attitudes and beliefs related to their child’s weight.Results. The qualitative analysis of parent mentor interviews indicated high commitment despite their nonprofessional status, facing challenges of engagement with fellow parents and attitudes of persistence and being nonjudgmental. The parent mentee ratings of parent mentors were overall very high and similar to the ratings of a community health worker (paraprofessional).Conclusion. The data suggest that a parent mentor model of intervention for child obesity is an acceptable mode of approaching behavior change in the Hispanic population around childhood obesity with potential for scalability if proven effective.
Effect on Soil Properties ofBcWRKY1Transgenic Maize with Enhanced Salinity Tolerance
Authors: Zeng Xing , Zhou Yu , Zhu Zhongjia , Zu Hongyue , Wang Shumin , Di Hong , Wang Zhenhua
Published: November 2016

Maize (Zea maysL.) is the most important cereal crop in the world. However, soil salinity has become a major problem affecting plant productivity due to arable field degradation. Thus, transgenic maize transformed with a salinity tolerance gene has been developed to further evaluate its salt tolerance and effects on agronomic traits. It is necessary to analyze the potential environmental risk of transgenic maize before further commercialization. Enzyme activities, physicochemical properties, and microbial populations were evaluated in saline and nonsaline rhizosphere soils from a transgenic maize line (WL-73) overexpressingBcWRKY1and from wild-type (WT) maize LH1037. Measurements were taken at four growth stages (V3, V9, R1, and R6) and repeated in three consecutive years (2012–2014). There was no change in the rhizosphere soils of either WL-73 or WT plants in the four soil enzyme activities, seven soil physicochemical properties, and the populations of three soil organisms. The results of this study suggested that salinity tolerant transgenic maize had no adverse impact on soil properties in soil rhizosphere during three consecutive years at two different locations and provided a theoretical basis for environmental impact monitoring of salinity tolerant transgenic maize.
Kinetics of Cardiac Output at the Onset of Exercise in Precapillary Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Lador Frédéric , Bringard Aurélien , Bengueddache Samir , Ferretti Guido , Bendjelid Karim , Soccal Paola M. , Noble Stéphane , Beghetti Maurice , Chemla Denis , Hervé Philippe , Sitbon Olivier
Published: November 2016

Purpose.Cardiac output (CO) is a cornerstone parameter in precapillary pulmonary hypertension (PH). The Modelflow (MF) method offers a reliable noninvasive determination of its beat-by-beat changes. So MF allows exploration of CO adjustment with the best temporal resolution.Methods.Fifteen subjects (5 PH patients, 10 healthy controls) performed a submaximal supine exercise on a cycle ergometer after 5 min of rest. CO was continuously determined by MF (COMF). Kinetics of heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV), and CO were determined with 3 monoexponential models.Results.In PH patients, we observed a sudden and transitory drop of SV upon exercise onset. This implied a transitory drop of CO whose adjustment to a new steady state depended on HR increase. The kinetics of HR and CO for PH patients was slower than that of controls for all models and for SV in model 1. SV kinetics was faster for PH patients in models 2 and 3.Conclusion.This is the first description of beat-by-beat cardiovascular adjustments upon exercise onset in PH. The kinetics of HR and CO appeared slower than those of healthy controls and there was a transitory drop of CO upon exercise onset in PH due to a sudden drop of SV.
Phase I/II Trial of Autologous Bone Marrow Stem Cell Transplantation with a Three‐Dimensional Woven‐Fabric Scaffold for Periodontitis
Authors: Baba Shunsuke , Yamada Yoichi , Komuro Akira , Yotsui Yoritaka , Umeda Makoto , Shimuzutani Kimishige , Nakamura Sayaka
Published: November 2016

Regenerative medicine is emerging as a promising option, but the potential of autologous stem cells has not been investigated well in clinical settings of periodontal treatment. In this clinical study, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of a new regenerative therapy based on the surgical implantation of autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with a biodegradable three‐dimensional (3D) woven‐fabric composite scaffold and platelet‐rich plasma (PRP). Ten patients with periodontitis, who required a surgical procedure for intrabony defects, were enrolled in phase I/II trial. Once MSCs were implanted in each periodontal intrabony defect, the patients were monitored during 36 months for a medical exam including laboratory tests of blood and urine samples, changes in clinical attachment level, pocket depth, and linear bone growth (LBG). All three parameters improved significantly during the entire follow‐up period (p < 0.0001), leading to an average LBG of 4.7 mm after 36 months. Clinical mobility measured by Periotest showed a decreasing trend after the surgery. No clinical safety problems attributable to the investigational MSCs were identified. This clinical trial suggests that the stem cell therapy using MSCs‐PRP/3D woven‐fabric composite scaffold may constitute a novel safe and effective regenerative treatment option for periodontitis.
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin Modifies Testosterone Action and Metabolism in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Li Huika , Pham Thy , McWhinney Brett C. , Ungerer Jacobus P. , Pretorius Carel J. , Richard Derek J. , Mortimer Robin H. , d’Emden Michael C. , Richard Kerry
Published: November 2016

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) is the major serum carrier of sex hormones. However, growing evidence suggests that SHBG is internalised and plays a role in regulating intracellular hormone action. This study was to determine whether SHBG plays a role in testosterone uptake, metabolism, and action in the androgen sensitive LNCaP prostate cancer cell line. Internalisation of SHBG and testosterone, the effects of SHBG on testosterone uptake, metabolism, regulation of androgen responsive genes, and cell growth were assessed. LNCaP cells internalised SHBG by a testosterone independent process. Testosterone was rapidly taken up and effluxed as testosterone-glucuronide; however this effect was reduced by the presence of SHBG. Addition of SHBG, rather than reducing testosterone bioavailability, further increased testosterone-induced expression of prostate specific antigen and enhanced testosterone-induced reduction of androgen receptor mRNA expression. Following 38 hours of testosterone treatment cell morphology changed and growth declined; however, cotreatment with SHBG abrogated these inhibitory effects. These findings clearly demonstrate that internalised SHBG plays an important regulatory and intracellular role in modifying testosterone action and this has important implications for the role of SHBG in health and disease.
Cornel Iridoid Glycoside Improves Locomotor Impairment and Decreases Spinal Cord Damage in Rats
Authors: Tang Wen-jing , Ma Deng-lei , Yang Cui-cui , Zhang Li , Li Ya-li , Zhang Lan , Li Lin
Published: November 2016

Purpose. This study was to investigate the effects of cornel iridoid glycoside (CIG) on spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats. Methods. The thoracic cord (at T9) of rats was injured by clip compression for 30 sec. Locomotor function was assessed using the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) rating scale. Neuroanatomic stereological parameters as well as Nogo-A, p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR), and ROCKII expression were measured by histological processing, immunohistochemistry, and stereological analyses. The axons passing through the lesion site were detected by BDA tracing. Results. Intragastric administration of CIG (60 and 180 mg/kg) improved the locomotor impairment at 10, 17, 24, and 31 days post-injury (dpi) compared with untreated SCI model rats. CIG treatment decreased the volume of the lesion epicenter (LEp) and increased the volume of spared tissue and the number of surviving neurons in the injured spinal cord at 31 dpi. CIG promoted the growth of BDA-positive axons and their passage through the lesion site and decreased the expression of Nogo-A, p75NTR, and ROCKII both in and around the LEp. Conclusion. CIG improved the locomotor impairment, decreased tissue damage, and downregulated the myelin-associated inhibition signaling pathway in SCI rats. The results suggest that CIG may be beneficial for SCI therapy.
The Changes of Serum Leptin and Kisspeptin Levels in Chinese Children and Adolescents in Different Pubertal Stages
Authors: Zhu Hui juan , Li Su juan , Pan Hui , Li Naishi , Zhang Dian xi , Wang Lin jie , Yang Hong bo , Wu Qinyong , Gong Feng ying
Published: November 2016

The aim of the study is to investigate the changes of serum leptin and kisspeptin levels in children and adolescents with different pubertal stages and nutritional states. A total of 647 Chinese children and adolescents were recruited, and serum estradiol, testosterone, pituitary gonadotropins, leptin, and kisspeptin levels were measured. The results showed that serum leptin levels of boys in T2 stage were the highest among the five stages, while they showed a gradual increase from T1 to T5 stage in girls and reached the highest in T5 stage (P<0.05). Conversely, serum kisspeptin levels of boys were higher in T4 and T5 stages than those in T1 stage, while its levels of girls were the highest in T2 stage, 21.4% higher than those in T1 stage (P<0.05). Both leptin and kisspeptin levels were positively correlated with BMI, WC, and weight in all boys and girls (all P<0.05). In conclusion, kisspeptin levels were firstly found to be notably changed in pubertal stages and nutritional status in Chinese children and adolescents with a significant sexual dimorphism. Obese/overweight girls had higher kisspeptin levels, and there was a positive correlation between kisspeptin and FSH and LH and obesity-related parameters in all boys and girls.
Palliative Gastrectomy Prolongs Survival of Metastatic Gastric Cancer Patients with Normal Preoperative CEA or CA19-9 Values: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chiu Chang-Fang , Yang Horng-Ren , Yang Mei-Due , Jeng Long-Bin , Yang Tse-Yen , Sargeant Aaron M. , Bai Li-Yuan
Published: November 2016

Background. Palliative gastrectomy has been suggested to improve survival of patients with metastatic gastric cancer, but limitations in study design and availability of robust prognostic factors have cast doubt on the overall merit of this procedure. Methods. The characteristics and clinical outcomes of 173 patients diagnosed between 2008 and 2012 were analyzed to determine the value of palliative gastrectomy and to identify potential prognostic factors. Results. Median overall patient survival was 6.5 months. To attenuate potential selection bias, patients with adequate performance and survival time of ≥ 2 months since diagnosis were included for risk factor analysis (n=137). The median overall survival was longer for patients who were younger than 60 years, had better performance status (8.7 versus 6.4 months, P=0.015), received systemic chemotherapy, or had palliative gastrectomy in univariate analyses. Gastrectomy (P=0.002) remained statistically significant in multivariate analyses. Subgroup analysis showed that patients aged < 60 years, CEA < 5 ng/mL or CA19-9 < 35 U/mL, obtained a survival advantage from palliative gastrectomy. In fact, palliative gastrectomy doubled overall survival for patients who had normal CEA and/or normal CA19-9. Conclusions. Palliative gastrectomy prolongs the survival of metastatic gastric cancer patients with normal CEA and/or CA19-9 level at the time of diagnosis.
Ultrasmall Dual-Band Metamaterial Antennas Based on Asymmetrical Hybrid Resonators
Authors: Zhu Ji-Xu , Bai Peng , Wang Jia-Fu
Published: November 2016

A new type of hybrid resonant circuit model is investigated theoretically and experimentally. The resonant model consists of a right hand (RH) patch part and a composite right and left handed (CRLH) part (RH + CRLH), which determines a compact size and also a convenient frequency modulation characteristic for the proposed antennas. For experimental demonstration, two antennas are fabricated. The former dual-band antenna operating at f-1=3.5 GHz (Wimax) and f+1=5.25 GHz (WLAN) occupies an area of 0.21λ0×0.08λ0, and two dipolar radiation patterns are obtained with comparable gains of about 6.1 and 6.2 dB, respectively. The latter antenna advances in many aspects such as an ultrasmall size of only 0.16λ0×0.08λ0, versatile radiation patterns with a monopolar pattern at f0=2.4 GHz (Bluetooth), and a dipole one at f+1=3.5 GHz (Wimax) and also comparable antenna gains. Circuit parameters are extracted and researched. Excellent performances of the antennas based on hybrid resonators predict promising applications in multifunction wireless communication systems.
Accuracy of the One-Stage and Two-Stage Impression Techniques: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Jamshidy Ladan , Mozaffari Hamid Reza , Faraji Payam , Sharifi Roohollah
Published: November 2016

Introduction. One of the main steps of impression is the selection and preparation of an appropriate tray. Hence, the present study aimed to analyze and compare the accuracy of one- and two-stage impression techniques. Materials and Methods. A resin laboratory-made model, as the first molar, was prepared by standard method for full crowns with processed preparation finish line of 1 mm depth and convergence angle of 3-4°. Impression was made 20 times with one-stage technique and 20 times with two-stage technique using an appropriate tray. To measure the marginal gap, the distance between the restoration margin and preparation finish line of plaster dies was vertically determined in mid mesial, distal, buccal, and lingual (MDBL) regions by a stereomicroscope using a standard method. Results. The results of independent test showed that the mean value of the marginal gap obtained by one-stage impression technique was higher than that of two-stage impression technique. Further, there was no significant difference between one- and two-stage impression techniques in mid buccal region, but a significant difference was reported between the two impression techniques in MDL regions and in general. Conclusion. The findings of the present study indicated higher accuracy for two-stage impression technique than for the one-stage impression technique.
A Correlation Study between Two Adjacent Same‐Meridian Acupoints after Laser‐Needle Acupuncture with Optical Coherence Tomography and Diffuse Reflectance Spectra
Authors: Wu Xiuli , Wei Huajiang , Guo Zhouyi , Ni Yirong , Liu Zhiming , Yang Hongqin , Xie Shusen , Zhou Lianpeng
Published: November 2016

This study is to investigate the correlations among Sanjian (LI3), Hegu (LI4), and Yangxi (LI5) acupoints and their corresponding nonacupoints on the Yangming Large Intestine Meridian of Hand before and after laser irradiation using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and diffuse reflectance spectra. The experiment was conducted on 10 healthy people. A 658 nm laser with 50 mW output power was used for irradiating LI4, LI5 acupoints and their corresponding nonacupoints. As to LI4 acupoint with laser irradiation for duration of 15 or 45 minutes, the OCT backscattered light intensities of LI4 and LI5 acupoints increased significantly, and the reflectance intensities (RIs) of the LI3, LI4, and LI5 acupoints decreased significantly. As to LI5 acupoint with laser irradiation for duration of 15 or 45 minutes, the changes of OCT backscattered light intensities of the corresponding irradiated acupoint and LI4 acupoint increased significantly, and the RIs decreased significantly. However, the OCT backscattered light intensities and RIs for their nonacupoints were almost not changed. The results show that an association exists between two adjacent same‐meridian acupoints on the same meridian after laser‐needle acupuncture to some extent.
Thermochemical Properties of Hydrophilic Polymers from Cashew and Khaya Exudates and Their Implications on Drug Delivery
Authors: Olorunsola Emmanuel O. , Bhatia Partap G. , Tytler Babajide A. , Adikwu Michael U.
Published: November 2016

Characterization of a polymer is essential for determining its suitability for a particular purpose. Thermochemical properties of cashew gum (CSG) extracted from exudates of Anacardium occidentale L. and khaya gum (KYG) extracted from exudates of Khaya senegalensis were determined and compared with those of acacia gum BP (ACG). The polymers were subjected to different thermal and chemical analyses. Exudates of CSG contained higher amount of hydrophilic polymer. The pH of 2% w/v gum dispersions was in the order KYG < CSG < ACG. Calcium was the predominant ion in CSG while potassium was predominant in KYG. The FTIR spectra of CSG and KYG were similar and slightly different from that of ACG. Acacia and khaya gums exhibited the same thermal behaviour which is different from that of CSG. X-ray diffraction revealed that the three gums are the same type of polymer, the major difference being the concentration of metal ions. This work suggests the application of cashew gum for formulation of basic and oxidizable drugs while using khaya gum for acidic drugs.
Human Bocavirus in Korean Children with Gastroenteritis and Respiratory Tract Infections
Authors: Lee Eun Jin , Kim Han-Sung , Kim Hyun Soo , Kim Jae-Seok , Song Wonkeun , Kim MiYoung , Lee Young Kyung , Kang Hee Jung
Published: November 2016

Human bocaviruses (HBoVs) are suggested to be etiologic agents of childhood respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. There are four main recognized genotypes of HBoVs (HBoV1–4); the HBoV-1 genotype is considered to be the primary etiologic agent in respiratory infections, whereas the HBoV2–4 genotypes have been mainly associated with gastrointestinal infections. The aim of the present study was to determine the distribution of HBoV genotypes in children with respiratory or gastrointestinal infections in a hospital in Korea. A total of 662 nasopharyngeal swabs (NPSs) and 155 fecal specimens were collected from children aged 5 years or less. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was conducted to detect theNS1HBoV gene. TheVP1gene of HBoV was further amplified in samples that were positive for theNS1gene. The PCR products ofVP1gene amplification were genotyped by sequence analysis. HBoV was detected in 69 (14.5%) of 662 NPSs and in 10 (6.5%) of 155 fecal specimens. Thirty-three isolates from NPSs and five isolates from fecal specimens were genotyped, and all 38 sequenced isolates were identified as the HBoV-1 genotype. HBoV-1 is the most prevalent genotype in children with respiratory or gastrointestinal HBoV infections in a hospital in Korea.
Enhanced Performance and Mode of Action of a Novel Antibiofilm Hydrofiber® Wound Dressing
Authors: Parsons David , Meredith Kate , Rowlands Victoria J. , Short Darryl , Metcalf Daniel G. , Bowler Philip G.
Published: November 2016

Biofilm development in wounds is now acknowledged to be a precursor to infection and a cause of delayed healing. A next-generation antibiofilm carboxymethylcellulose silver-containing wound dressing (NGAD) has been developed to disrupt and kill biofilm microorganisms. Thisin vitrostudy aimed to compare its effectiveness against various existing wound dressings and examine its mode of action. A number of biofilm models of increasing complexity were used to culture biofilms of wound-relevant pathogens, before exposure to test dressings. Confocal microscopy, staining, and imaging of biofilm constituents, total viable counting, and elemental analysis were conducted to assess dressing antibiofilm performance. Live/dead staining and viable counting of biofilms demonstrated that the NGAD was more effective at killing biofilm bacteria than two other standard silver dressings. Staining of biofilm polysaccharides showed that the NGAD was also more effective at reducing this protective biofilm component than standard silver dressings, and image analyses confirmed the superior biofilm killing and removal performance of the NGAD. The biofilm-disruptive and silver-enhancing modes of action of the NGAD were supported by significant differences (p<0.05) in biofilm elemental markers and silver donation. Thisin vitrostudy improves our understanding of how antibiofilm dressing technology can be effective against the challenge of biofilm.
The Experience of Older People in the Shared Decision-Making Process in Advanced Kidney Care
Authors: Thomas Nicola , Jenkins Karen , McManus Breeda , Gracey Brian
Published: November 2016

Introduction. This qualitative descriptive study was designed to understand the experiences of older people (>70 years) when making a decision about renal replacement therapy. This was a coproduced study, whereby patients and carers were involved in all aspects of the research process.Methods. A Patient and Carer Group undertook volunteer and research training. The group developed the interview questions and interviewed 29 people who had commenced dialysis or made a decision not to have dialysis. Interview data were transcribed and analysed, and common themes were identified.Results. 22 men and 7 women (mean age 77.4 yrs) from two hospitals were interviewed. 18 had chosen haemodialysis, 6 peritoneal dialysis, and 5 supportive care. The majority of patients were involved in the dialysis decision. Most were satisfied with the amount of information that they received, although some identified that the quality of the information could be improved, especially how daily living can be affected by dialysis.Conclusion. Our findings show that overall older patients were involved in the dialysis decision along with their families. Our approach is innovative because it is the first time that patients and carers have been involved in a coproduced study about shared decision-making.
Online Fault-Tolerant Onboard Aeroengine Model Tuning Structure
Authors: Ding Shuiting , Yuan Ye , Xue Naiyu , Liu Xiaofeng
Published: November 2016

Online onboard aeroengine models (OBEMs) have been widely used in health management, fault diagnostics, and fault-tolerant control. A mismatch between the OBEM and the actual engine may be caused by a variety of factors such as health degradation or sensor fault and may influence the effectiveness of the systems mentioned above. However, mismatch caused by unpredictable sensor fault is hardly distinguished from that caused by health degradation through the tuning process. A fault-tolerant OBEM tuning structure is provided to perform the online tuning function when health degradation and sensor fault coexist. This system includes three parts that include improved fault diagnostics and isolation (IFDI), a fault-tolerant OBEM tuning system (FTOTS), and a channel switching module. IFDI is used to distinguish the cause of mismatch and provide fault information, a FTOTS is used to complete an online tuning process based on information obtained from the IFDI, and the channel switching module is used to switch the working process from the IFDI to the FTOTS. Several simulation results show that this system is able to distinguish the causes of mismatch and complete online tuning in the case of sensor faults.
Evaluation of Wound Healing Properties of Grape Seed, Sesame, and Fenugreek Oils
Authors: Moalla Rekik Dorsaf , Ben Khedir Sameh , Ksouda Moalla Kamilia , Kammoun Naziha Grati , Rebai Tarek , Sahnoun Zouheir
Published: November 2016

Background. Medicinal plants have proved at all times to be a powerful remedy for health care. Accordingly, grape seed, sesame, and fenugreek extracted oils with pharmacological properties are investigated as wound treatments. This study assesses the potential of our oils for healing wounds induced on rats. Methods. Phytochemical analyses of oils have involved: quality value, polyphenol, chlorophylls, carotene, and fatty acids. Antibacterial activity was carried out. Antioxidant activity was evaluated: the scavenging effect on DPPH radicals, the reducing power, and β‐carotene discoloration. Uniform wound excision was induced on rats dorsum randomly divided into five groups: groups treated with “CICAFLORA®” and tested oils and untreated one. The posthealing biopsies were histologically assessed. Results. Wound biopsies treated with oils showed the best tissue regeneration compared to control groups. Groups treated with our oils and “CICAFLORA” had higher wound contraction percentage. Polyunsaturated fatty acids in oils act as inflammatory mediators increasing neovascularization, extracellular remodeling, migration, and cell differentiation. Wound healing effect was attributed to antibacterial and antioxidant synergy. Conclusion. According to findings, oils showed better activity in wound healing compared to “CICAFLORA” due to a phytoconstituents synergy. However, clinical trials on humans are necessary to confirm efficacy on human pathology.
Night-Time Vehicle Detection Algorithm Based on Visual Saliency and Deep Learning
Authors: Cai Yingfeng , Sun Xiaoqiang , Wang Hai , Chen Long , Jiang Haobin
Published: November 2016

Night vision systems get more and more attention in the field of automotive active safety field. In this area, a number of researchers have proposed far-infrared sensor based night-time vehicle detection algorithm. However, existing algorithms have low performance in some indicators such as the detection rate and processing time. To solve this problem, we propose a far-infrared image vehicle detection algorithm based on visual saliency and deep learning. Firstly, most of the nonvehicle pixels will be removed with visual saliency computation. Then, vehicle candidate will be generated by using prior information such as camera parameters and vehicle size. Finally, classifier trained with deep belief networks will be applied to verify the candidates generated in last step. The proposed algorithm is tested in around 6000 images and achieves detection rate of 92.3% and processing time of 25 Hz which is better than existing methods.
Effect of Exogenous Fetuin-A on TGF-β/Smad Signaling in Hepatic Stellate Cells
Authors: Zhou Yulai , Yang Shuang , Zhang Pan
Published: November 2016

Objective. To explore the effects of low concentration of exogenous fetuin-A intervention on TGF-β1 induced LX2 cells through detection of the expression of mRNA and protein of Smad2, Smad3, and Smad7. Methods. MTT assay was used to detect the LX2 cells proliferation and the regression equation calculating software was applied to determine IC50 of fetuin-A. RT-PCR was used to determine the relative content of Smad2, Smad3, and Smad7 mRNA in LX2 cells. Western blot was used to detect the LX2 cells relative content of Smad2, Smad3, Smad7 protein expression, respectively. Results. The analysis from RT-PCR and western blot showed that when compared with the other groups TGF-β1 + fetuin-A group increased the expression of Smad2 and Smad3 while decreased the expression of Smad7 (P<0.05). Conclusion. Fetuin-A may improve the excessive activation of hepatic stellate cells which is caused by an enhanced positive regulation of Smad2 and Smad3 protein and the deficiency in negative regulation of Smad7 protein. This is through inhibiting the expression of Smad2 and Smad3 gene and promoting the expression of Smad7 gene. As a result, the development of liver fibrosis will be reduced.
Robotic Seals as Therapeutic Tools in an Aged Care Facility: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Birks Melanie , Bodak Marie , Barlas Joanna , Harwood June , Pether Mary
Published: November 2016

Robots, including robotic seals, have been used as an alternative to therapies such as animal assisted therapy in the promotion of health and social wellbeing of older people in aged care facilities. There is limited research available that evaluates the effectiveness of robot therapies in these settings. The aim of this study was to identify, explore, and describe the impact of the use of Paro robotic seals in an aged care facility in a regional Australian city. A qualitative, descriptive, exploratory design was employed. Data were gathered through interviews with the three recreational therapists employed at the facility who were also asked to maintain logs of their interactions with the Paro and residents. Data were transcribed and thematically analysed. Three major themes were identified from the analyses of these data: “a therapeutic tool that’s not for everybody,” “every interaction is powerful,” and “keeping the momentum.” Findings support the use of Paro as a therapeutic tool, revealing improvement in emotional state, reduction of challenging behaviours, and improvement in social interactions of residents. The potential benefits justify the investment in Paro, with clear evidence that these tools can have a positive impact that warrants further exploration.
Glucose Tolerance,MTHFRC677T andNOS3G894T Polymorphisms, and Global DNA Methylation in Mixed Ancestry African Individuals
Authors: Matsha Tandi E. , Pheiffer Carmen , Mutize Tinashe , Erasmus Rajiv T. , Kengne Andre P.
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study is to quantify global DNA methylation and investigate the relationship with diabetes status and polymorphisms in MTHFR C677T and NOS3 G894T genes in mixed ancestry subjects from South Africa. Global DNA methylation was measured, andMTHFRrs1801133 andNOS3rs1799983 polymorphisms were genotyped using high throughput real-time polymerase chain reaction and direct DNA sequencing. Of the 564 participants, 158 (28%) individuals had T2DM of which 97 (17.2%) were screen-detected cases. Another 119 (21.1%) had prediabetes, that is, impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, or the combination of both, and the remainder 287 (50.9%) had normal glucose tolerance. Global DNA methylation was significantly higher in prediabetes and screen-detected diabetes than in normal glucose tolerance (bothp≤0.033) and in screen-detected diabetes compared to known diabetes on treatment (p=0.019). There was no difference in global DNA methylation between known diabetes on treatment and normal glucose tolerance (p>0.999). In multivariable linear regression analysis, onlyNOS3was associated with increasing global DNA methylation (β=0.943; 95% CI: 0.286 to 1.560). The association of global DNA methylation with screen-detected diabetes but not treated diabetes suggests that glucose control agents to some extent may be reversing DNA methylation. The association betweenNOS3rs1799983 polymorphisms and DNA methylation suggests gene-epigenetic mechanisms through which vascular diabetes complications develop despite adequate metabolic control.
Relative Pose Estimation Algorithm with Gyroscope Sensor
Authors: Wei Shanshan , He Zhiqiang , Xie Wei
Published: November 2016

This paper proposes a novel vision and inertial fusion algorithm S2fM (Simplified Structure from Motion) for camera relative pose estimation. Different from current existing algorithms, our algorithm estimates rotation parameter and translation parameter separately. S2fM employs gyroscopes to estimate camera rotation parameter, which is later fused with the image data to estimate camera translation parameter. Our contributions are in two aspects. (1) Under the circumstance that no inertial sensor can estimate accurately enough translation parameter, we propose a translation estimation algorithm by fusing gyroscope sensor and image data. (2) Our S2fM algorithm is efficient and suitable for smart devices. Experimental results validate efficiency of the proposed S2fM algorithm.
Effective Perihelion Advance and Potentials in a Conformastatic Background with Magnetic Field
Authors: Capistrano Abraão J. S. , Gutiérrez-Piñeres Antonio C.
Published: November 2016

Exact solutions of the Einstein-Maxwell field equations for a conformastatic metric with magnetized sources are investigated. In this context, effective potentials are studied in order to understand the dynamics of the magnetic field in galaxies. We derive the equations of motion for neutral and charged particles in a spacetime background characterized by this class of solutions. In this particular case, we investigate the main physical properties of the equatorial circular orbits and related effective potentials. In addition, we obtain an effective analytic expression for the perihelion advance of test particles. Our theoretical predictions are compared with the observational data calibrated with the ephemerides of the planets of the solar system and the Moon (EPM2011). In general, we show that the magnetic punctual mass predicts values that are in better agreement with observations than the values predicted in Einstein’s gravity alone.
Sensitivity Analysis and Identification of Parameters to the Van Genuchten Equation
Authors: Chen Guangzhou , Jiao Lifeng , Li Xinhai
Published: November 2016

Van Genuchten equation is the soil water characteristic curve equation used commonly, and identifying (estimating) accurately its parameters plays an important role in the study on the movement of soil water. Selecting the desorption and absorption experimental data of silt loam from a northwest region in China as an instance, Monte-Carlo method was firstly applied to analyze sensitivity of the parameters and uncertainty of model so as to get the key parameters and posteriori parameter distribution to guide subsequent parameter identification. Then, the optimization model of the parameters was set up, and a new type of intelligent algorithm-difference search algorithm was employed to identify them. In order to overcome the fault that the base difference search algorithm needed more iterations and to further enhance the optimization performance, a hybrid algorithm, which coupled the difference search algorithm with simplex method, was employed to identification of the parameters. By comparison with other optimization algorithms, the results show that the difference search algorithm has the following characteristics: good optimization performance, the simple principle, easy implement, short program code, and less control parameters required to run the algorithm. In addition, the proposed hybrid algorithm outperforms the basic difference search algorithm on the comprehensive performance of algorithm.
Nonstructural Protein 1 of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus Induces Oxidative Stress and Activates Antioxidant Defense by the Nrf2/ARE Pathway
Authors: Kuzmenko Yulia V. , Smirnova Olga A. , Ivanov Alexander V. , Starodubova Elizaveta S. , Karpov Vadim L.
Published: November 2016

Background: Infection with tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) causes pathological changes in the central nervous system. However, the possible redox alterations in the infected cells that can contribute to the virus pathogenicity remain unknown. Objective: In the current study we explored the ability of TBEV nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) to induce oxidative stress and activate antioxidant defense via the nuclear factor (erythroid-derived-2)-like 2/antioxidant response element (Nrf2/ARE) pathway. Methods: HEK 293T cells were transfected with plasmid encoding NS1 protein, and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured using oxidation-sensitive dyes, the activation of the ARE promoter was estimated using a reporter plasmid, and the expression of phase II detoxifying enzymes was quantified by measuring their mRNA levels using RT-qPCR. Results: A high level of ROS production was detected in cells transfected with NS1-expressing plasmid. In addition, this protein activated the promoter with an ARE and upregulated the transcription of ARE-dependent genes that encode phase II enzymes. Conclusion: TBEV NS1 protein both triggers ROS production and activates a defense Nrf2/ARE pathway. These data suggest that a role of redox-mediated processes in TBEV-induced damage of the central nervous system should also be explored. These data can contribute to a better understanding of TBEV pathogenicity, further improvement of TBE treatment, and the development of vaccine candidates against this infection.
Dilemas e desafios da democracia na América Latina. Deterioração ou renovação?
Authors: Cheresky Isidoro
Published: November 2016

Since the beginning of the 21st century, the political regime and society in some South American countries have experienced significant changes and conflicts that call into question what is meant by democracy. Refoundational movements and governments explicitly emerged as a consequence of the crisis of representation and the breakdown of traditional institutions, bringing the promise of a fairer society. Those governments improved the situation of those living in social conditions of deprivation and postulated rights, so we can recognize a first dimension of “liberation” from obstacles and barriers. However, the concentration of power in a (semi)embodied leadership and a scarcely deliberative public life eroded the scope of its original principles
Encontros e desencontros: balanço do estado da prática democrática na América Latina
Authors: Couso Javier
Published: November 2016

Despite the positive fact that democracy is the only legitimate method for the exercise of power throughtout almost the whole of Latin America, the quality of democracy in the region leaves much to be desired. Among other challenges we can highlight the persistence in many countries of serious human right abuses (perpetrated by the police and other armed agencies), the existence of rampant corruption and the inability to reduce social and economical inequalities (besides the achievements concerning poverty reduction). If such scenario persists, those troubles may jeopardize the impressive democratic advances from the past decades