bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hierarchical and Redundant Roles of Activating FcγRs in Protection against Influenza Disease by M2e-Specific IgG1 and IgG2a Antibodies
Authors: Van den Hoecke Silvie , Ehrhardt Katrin , Kolpe Annasaheb , El Bakkouri Karim , Deng Lei , Grootaert Hendrik , Schoonooghe Steve , Smet Anouk , Bentahir Mostafa , Roose Kenny , Schotsaert Michael , Schepens Bert , Callewaert Nico , Nimmerjahn Falk , Staeheli Peter , Hengel Hartmut , Saelens Xavier
Published: January 2017

The ectodomain of matrix protein 2 is a universal influenza A virus vaccine candidate that provides protection through antibody-dependent effector mechanisms. Here we compared the functional engagement of Fcγ receptor (FcγR) family members by two M2e-specific monoclonal antibodies (MAbs), MAb 37 (IgG1) and MAb 65 (IgG2a), which recognize a similar epitope in M2e with similar affinities. The binding of MAb 65 to influenza A virus-infected cells triggered all three activating mouse Fcγ receptors
in vitro
, whereas MAb 37 activated only FcγRIII. The passive transfer of MAb 37 or MAb 65 in wild-type,
Fcer1g
−/−
,
Fcgr3
−/−
, and
Fcgr1
−/−
Fcgr3
−/−
BALB/c mice revealed the importance of these receptors for protection against influenza A virus challenge, with a clear requirement of FcγRIII for IgG1 MAb 37 being found. We also report that FcγRIV contributes to protection by M2e-specific IgG2a antibodies.

IMPORTANCE
There is increased awareness that protection by antibodies directed against viral antigens is also mediated by the Fc domain of these antibodies. These Fc-mediated effector functions are often missed in clinical assays, which are used, for example, to define correlates of protection induced by vaccines. The use of antibodies to prevent and treat infectious diseases is on the rise and has proven to be a promising approach in our battle against newly emerging viral infections. It is now also realized that Fcγ receptors significantly enhance the
in vivo
protective effect of broadly neutralizing antibodies directed against the conserved parts of the influenza virus hemagglutinin. We show here that two M2e-specific monoclonal antibodies with close to identical antigen-binding specificities and affinities have a very different
in vivo
protective potential that is controlled by their capacity to interact with activating Fcγ receptors.
Genome-Wide Approaches to Defining Macrophage Identity and Function
Authors: Fonseca Gregory J. , Seidman Jason S. , Glass Christopher K.
Published: January 2017

Macrophages play essential roles in the response to injury and infection and contribute to the development and/or homeostasis of the various tissues they reside in. Conversely, macrophages also influence the pathogenesis of metabolic, neurodegenerative, and neoplastic diseases. Mechanisms that contribute to the phenotypic diversity of macrophages in health and disease remain poorly understood. Here we review the recent application of genome-wide approaches to characterize the transcriptomes and epigenetic landscapes of tissue-resident macrophages. These studies are beginning to provide insights into how distinct tissue environments are interpreted by transcriptional regulatory elements to drive specialized programs of gene expression.
Myeloid Cell Phenotypes in Susceptibility and Resistance to Helminth Parasite Infections
Authors: Maizels Rick M. , Hewitson James P.
Published: January 2017

Many major tropical diseases are caused by long-lived helminth parasites that are able to survive by modulation of the host immune system, including the innate compartment of myeloid cells. In particular, dendritic cells and macrophages show markedly altered phenotypes during parasite infections. In addition, many specialized subsets such as eosinophils and basophils expand dramatically in response to these pathogens. The changes in phenotype and function, and their effects on both immunity to infection and reactivity to bystander antigens such as allergens, are discussed.
Laboratory Diagnosis and Susceptibility Testing for
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Procop Gary W.
Published: January 2017

The laboratory, which utilizes some of the most sophisticated and rapidly changing technologies, plays a critical role in the diagnosis of tuberculosis. Some of these tools are being employed in resource-challenged countries for the rapid detection and characterization of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. Foremost, the laboratory defines appropriate specimen criteria for optimal test performance. The direct detection of mycobacteria in the clinical specimen, predominantly done by acid-fast staining, may eventually be replaced by rapid-cycle PCR. The widespread use of the Xpert MTB/RIF (Cepheid) assay, which detects both
M. tuberculosis
and key genetic determinants of rifampin resistance, is important for the early detection of multidrug-resistant strains. Culture, using both broth and solid media, remains the standard for establishing the laboratory-based diagnosis of tuberculosis. Cultured isolates are identified far less commonly by traditional biochemical profiling and more commonly by molecular methods, such as DNA probes and broad-range PCR with DNA sequencing. Non-nucleic acid-based methods of identification, such as high-performance liquid chromatography and, more recently, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry, may also be used for identification. Cultured isolates of
M. tuberculosis
should be submitted for susceptibility testing according to standard guidelines. The use of broth-based susceptibility testing is recommended to significantly decrease the time to result. Cultured isolates may also be submitted for strain typing for epidemiologic purposes. The use of massive parallel sequencing, also known as next-generation sequencing, promises to continue to this molecular revolution in mycobacteriology, as whole-genome sequencing provides identification, susceptibility, and typing information simultaneously.
No evidence for the use of stem cell therapy for tendon disorders: a systematic review
Authors: Pas Haiko I M F L , Moen Maarten H , Haisma Hidde J , Winters Marinus
Published: January 2017

Introduction

Stem cells have emerged as a new treatment option for tendon disorders. We systematically reviewed the current evidence for stem cell therapy in tendon disorders.

Methods

Randomised and non-randomised controlled trials, cohort studies and case series with a minimum of 5 cases were searched in MEDLINE, CENTRAL, EMBASE, CINAHL, PEDro and SPORTDiscus. In addition, we searched grey literature databases and trial registers. Only human studies were included and no time or language restrictions were applied to our search. All references of included trials were checked for possibly eligible trials. Risk of bias assessment was performed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for controlled trials and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for case series. Levels of evidence were assigned according to the Oxford levels of evidence.

Results

4 published and three unpublished/pending trials were found with a total of 79 patients. No unpublished data were available. Two trials evaluated bone marrow-derived stem cells in rotator cuff repair surgery and found lower retear rates compared with historical controls or the literature. One trial used allogenic adipose-derived stem cells to treat lateral epicondylar tendinopathy. Improved Mayo Elbow Performance Index, Visual Analogue Pain scale and ultrasound findings after 1-year follow-up compared with baseline were found. Bone marrow-derived stem cell-treated patellar tendinopathy showed improved International Knee Documentation Committee, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score subscales and Tegner scores after 5-year follow-up. One trial reported adverse events and found them to be mild (eg, swelling, effusion). All trials were at high risk of bias and only level 4 evidence was available.

Conclusions

No evidence (level 4) was found for the therapeutic use of stem cells for tendon disorders. The use of stem cell therapy for tendon disorders in clinical practice is currently not advised.
The effect of generalised joint hypermobility on rate, risk and frequency of injury in male university-level rugby league players: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Oddy Cassie , Johnson Mark I , Jones Gareth
Published: January 2017

Background

Rugby league is a collision sport where musculoskeletal injuries are common. There has been little research on generalised joint hypermobility (GJH) as a risk factor for injury in rugby league. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of GJH on the incidence of injuries in first and second team rugby league players from one British university.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study of 45 student players from one British university first and second team rugby league squads (mean age 20.93±1.57 years). At the beginning of the season, GJH was determined using a 9-point Beighton scale, and injury and exposure data were collected on a weekly basis throughout the 2013–2014 season.

Results

The prevalence of GJH was 20%. There was no statistically significant difference in the frequency of injuries between GJH and non-GJH participants (p=0.938, Mann-Whitney U test).Participants categorised as having GJH did not experience a higher fequency of injury (p=0.722, Fisher's exact test) and there was no tendency to demonstrate a higher risk of injury for participants categorised as GJH (OR=0.64, 95% CI 0.15 to 2.78; relative risk (RR)=1.188, 95% CI 0.537 to 2.625). The most common site of injury was the ankle, but this was not statistically significant (OR=0.152, 95% CI 0.008 to 2.876; RR=0.195, CI 0.012 to 3.066).

Conclusion

British university rugby league players with GJH did not demonstrate a greater risk of injury than those without GJH.
Further comments on October's dilemma: A request for euthanasia: advising a colleague
Authors: Howie Neil
Published: January 2017

In the dilemma discussed in the October issue of In Practice, a colleague reluctantly accepted the request to euthanase Bob, a healthy, two‐year‐old cat. The client was moving house and was not interested in rehoming. Later, a nurse said she could find a good home for the cat. What would you advise? (IP, October 2016, vol 38, pp 469–470). Andrew Knight suggested that the colleague call the client and explain that a new option had arisen. Bob could go to a good home that was far away from the client, so there would be no chance of them seeing him again. However, if the client declined, the dilemma remained. One option might be to tell the client that, in view of the new circumstances, they could no longer agree to the euthanasia; instead they could offer to refund the payment and refer the client to another veterinarian for a second opinion.
Life history effects on hatchery contributions to ocean harvest and natural-area spawning
Authors: Davison Raziel J. , Satterthwaite William H.
Published: January 2017

Hatcheries can support salmon fisheries but also impact natural populations. We model the proportional hatchery contributions to ocean catch, natural-area spawning, and egg production based on hatchery production, maturation, fecundity, and straying. We develop indices of hatchery-origin catch per stray spawner measuring the trade-off between supplementing harvest and limiting natural-area impacts; higher values indicate success in increasing hatchery ocean harvest contributions relative to strays spawning in natural areas. Hatchery fish maturing early lowers catch per stray (and proportion hatchery-origin catch) by shifting the age distributions of both catch and spawners toward younger ages. Age-dependent fecundity may complicate predicted effects of changing maturation schedules. Increased straying does not affect catch but increases hatchery-origin spawning and decreases catch per stray. Differences in hatchery production affect hatchery contributions to both catch and spawning, exacerbating the trade-off between these conflicting goals but with no net effect on catch per stray. Fishery intensity magnifies the effects of accelerated hatchery fish maturation by reducing spawning contributions of older fish, with contrasting effects depending on whether hatchery fish mature early versus late.
Analysis of four-body decay of D meson
Authors: Estabar T. , Mehraban H.
Published: January 2017

The aim of this work is to provide a phenomenological analysis of the contribution of [Formula: see text] meson to [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] quasi-three-body decays. Such that the analysis of mentioned four-body decays is summarized into three-body decay and several channels are observed. Based on the factorization approach, hadronic three-body decays receive both resonant and nonresonant contributions. We compute both contributions of three-body decays. As, there are tree, penguin, emission, and emission annihilation diagrams for these decay modes. Our theoretical model for [Formula: see text] decay is based on the QCD factorization to quasi-two body followed by [Formula: see text]-wave. This model for this decay following experimental information which demonstrated two pion interaction in the [Formula: see text]-wave is introduced by the scalar resonance. The theoretical values are [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], while the experimental results of them are [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. Comparing computation analysis values with experimental values show that our results are in agreement with them.
Approximation of the stochastic 2D hydrodynamical type systems driven by non-Gaussian Lévy noise
Authors: Deugoué Gabriel
Published: January 2017

We propose and analyze a numerical scheme for the approximation of the solution for the stochastic 2D hydrodynamical type systems driven by non-Gaussian Lévy noise. We prove the convergence of the scheme which is a linear evolution equation with additive noise.
Hydroxyalkyloxy substituted tetraphenylporphyrins: Mechanism and superoxide scavenging activity
Authors: Kuzmin Sergey M. , Chulovskaya Svetlana A. , Parfenyuk Vladimir I.
Published: January 2017

The novel electrochemical approach based on coulometric response of electro-generated superoxide (O[Formula: see text] was used to determine scavenging properties of 2H-5,10,15,20-tetrakis (4-hydroxyphenyl)porphyrin (H[Formula: see text]T(4-OHPh)P); 2H-5,10,15,20-tetrakis[4-(2-hydroxyethyloxy)phenyl]porphyrin (H[Formula: see text]T(4-OH(CH[Formula: see text]OPh)P); 2H-5,10,15,20-tetrakis[4-(4-hydroxybutyloxy)phenyl]porphyrin (H[Formula: see text]T(4-OH(CH[Formula: see text]OPh)P); Zn-5,10,15,20-tetrakis[4-(4-hydroxyethyloxy)phenyl]porphyrin (ZnT(4-OH(CH[Formula: see text]OPh)P) superoxide. It has been identified that the porphyrins under study possess good antioxidant properties. The analysis of possible interactions between porphyrins and superoxide anion-radical has shown that high values of superoxide scavenging activity of tetraphenylporphyrins with alcohol chains can be explained by the nucleophilic attack of O[Formula: see text] on the C–C bonds of alcohol.
Triglyceride-rich lipoprotein lipolysis products increase blood-brain barrier transfer coefficient and induce astrocyte lipid droplets and cell stress
Authors: Lee Linda L. , Aung Hnin H. , Wilson Dennis W. , Anderson Steven E. , Rutledge John C. , Rutkowsky Jennifer M.
Published: January 2017

Elevation of blood triglycerides, primarily as triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TGRL), has been linked to cerebrovascular inflammation, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Brain microvascular endothelial cells and astrocytes, two cell components of the neurovascular unit, participate in controlling blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and regulating neurovascular unit homeostasis. Our studies showed that infusion of high physiological concentrations of TGRL lipolysis products (TGRL + lipoprotein lipase) activate and injure brain endothelial cells and transiently increase the BBB transfer coefficient ( Ki = permeability × surface area/volume) in vivo. However, little is known about how blood lipids affect astrocyte lipid accumulation and inflammation. To address this, we first demonstrated TGRL lipolysis products increased lipid droplet formation in cultured normal human astrocytes. We then evaluated the transcriptional pathways activated in astrocytes by TGRL lipolysis products and found upregulated stress and inflammatory-related genes including activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3), macrophage inflammatory protein-3α (MIP-3α), growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF15), and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (COX2). TGRL lipolysis products also activated the JNK/cJUN/ATF3 pathway, induced endoplasmic reticulum stress protein C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), and the NF-κB pathway, while increasing secretion of MIP-3α, GDF15, and IL-8. Thus our results demonstrate TGRL lipolysis products increase the BBB transfer coefficient ( Ki), induce astrocyte lipid droplet formation, activate cell stress pathways, and induce secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Our observations are consistent with evidence for lipid-induced neurovascular injury and inflammation, and we, therefore, speculate that lipid-induced astrocyte injury could play a role in cognitive decline.
Biological signaling by carbon monoxide and carbon monoxide-releasing molecules
Authors: Motterlini Roberto , Foresti Roberta
Published: January 2017

Carbon monoxide (CO) is continuously produced in mammalian cells during the degradation of heme. It is a stable gaseous molecule that reacts selectively with transition metals in a specific redox state, and these characteristics restrict the interaction of CO with defined biological targets that transduce its signaling activity. Because of the high affinity of CO for ferrous heme, these targets can be grouped into heme-containing proteins, representing a large variety of sensors and enzymes with a series of diverse function in the cell and the organism. Despite this notion, progress in identifying which of these targets are selective for CO has been slow and even the significance of elevated carbonmonoxy hemoglobin, a classical marker used to diagnose CO poisoning, is not well understood. This is also due to the lack of technologies capable of assessing in a comprehensive fashion the distribution and local levels of CO between the blood circulation, the tissue, and the mitochondria, one of the cellular compartments where CO exerts its signaling or detrimental effects. Nevertheless, the use of CO gas and CO-releasing molecules as pharmacological approaches in models of disease has provided new important information about the signaling properties of CO. In this review we will analyze the most salient effects of CO in biology and discuss how the binding of CO with key ferrous hemoproteins serves as a posttranslational modification that regulates important processes as diverse as aerobic metabolism, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial bioenergetics.
Plasticity of neuroeffector transmission during bowel inflammation1
Authors: Lomax Alan E. , Pradhananga Sabindra , Bertrand Paul P.
Published: January 2017

Altered gastrointestinal (GI) function contributes to the debilitating symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Nerve circuits contained within the gut wall and outside of the gut play important roles in modulating motility, mucosal fluid transport, and blood flow. The structure and function of these neuronal populations change during IBD. Superimposed on this plasticity is a diminished responsiveness of effector cells — smooth muscle cells, enterocytes, and vascular endothelial cells — to neurotransmitters. The net result is a breakdown in the precisely orchestrated coordination of motility, fluid secretion, and GI blood flow required for health. In this review, we consider how inflammation-induced changes to the effector innervation of these tissues, and changes to the tissues themselves, contribute to defective GI function in models of IBD. We also explore the evidence that reversing neuronal plasticity is sufficient to normalize function during IBD.
Enhanced oxidative capacity of ground squirrel brain mitochondria during hibernation
Authors: Ballinger Mallory A. , Schwartz Christine , Andrews Matthew T.
Published: January 2017

During hibernation, thirteen-lined ground squirrels ( Ictidomys tridecemlineatus) regularly cycle between bouts of torpor and interbout arousal (IBA). Most of the brain is electrically quiescent during torpor but regains activity quickly upon arousal to IBA, resulting in extreme oscillations in energy demand during hibernation. We predicted increased functional capacity of brain mitochondria during hibernation compared with spring to accommodate the variable energy demands of hibernation. To address this hypothesis, we examined mitochondrial bioenergetics in the ground squirrel brain across three time points: spring (SP), torpor (TOR), and IBA. Respiration rates of isolated brain mitochondria through complex I of the electron transport chain were more than twofold higher in TOR and IBA than in SP ( P < 0.05). We also found a 10% increase in membrane potential between hibernation and spring ( P < 0.05), and that proton leak was lower in TOR and IBA than in SP. Finally, there was a 30% increase in calcium loading in SP brain mitochondria compared with TOR and IBA ( P < 0.01). To analyze brain mitochondrial abundance between spring and hibernation, we measured the ratio of copy number in a mitochondrial gene ( ND1) vs. a nuclear gene ( B2M) in frozen cerebral cortex samples. No significant differences were observed in DNA copies between SP and IBA. These data show that brain mitochondrial bioenergetics are not static across the year and suggest that brain mitochondria function more effectively during the hibernation season, allowing for rapid production of energy to meet demand when extreme physiological changes are occurring.
Acclimation to hypoxia increases carbohydrate use during exercise in high-altitude deer mice
Authors: Lau Daphne S. , Connaty Alex D. , Mahalingam Sajeni , Wall Nastashya , Cheviron Zachary A. , Storz Jay F. , Scott Graham R. , McClelland Grant B.
Published: January 2017

The low O2experienced at high altitude is a significant challenge to effective aerobic locomotion, as it requires sustained tissue O2delivery in addition to the appropriate allocation of metabolic substrates. Here, we tested whether high- and low-altitude deer mice ( Peromyscus maniculatus) have evolved different acclimation responses to hypoxia with respect to muscle metabolism and fuel use during submaximal exercise. Using F1generation high- and low-altitude deer mice that were born and raised in common conditions, we assessed 1) fuel use during exercise, 2) metabolic enzyme activities, and 3) gene expression for key transporters and enzymes in the gastrocnemius. After hypoxia acclimation, highland mice showed a significant increase in carbohydrate oxidation and higher relative reliance on this fuel during exercise at 75% maximal O2consumption. Compared with lowland mice, highland mice had consistently higher activities of oxidative and fatty acid oxidation enzymes in the gastrocnemius. In contrast, only after hypoxia acclimation did activities of hexokinase increase significantly in the muscle of highland mice to levels greater than lowland mice. Highland mice also responded to acclimation with increases in muscle gene expression for hexokinase 1 and 2 genes, whereas both populations increased mRNA expression for glucose transporters. Changes in skeletal muscle with acclimation suggest that highland mice had an increased capacity for the uptake and oxidation of circulatory glucose. Our results demonstrate that highland mice have evolved a distinct mode of hypoxia acclimation that involves an increase in carbohydrate use during exercise.
The cerebrovascular response to lower-body negative pressure vs. head-up tilt
Authors: Bronzwaer Anne-Sophie G. T. , Verbree Jasper , Stok Wim J. , Daemen Mat J. A. P. , van Buchem Mark A. , van Osch Matthias J. P. , van Lieshout Johannes J.
Published: January 2017

Lower-body negative pressure (LBNP) has been proposed as a MRI-compatible surrogate for orthostatic stress. Although the effects of LBNP on cerebral hemodynamic behavior have been considered to reflect those of orthostatic stress, a direct comparison with actual orthostasis is lacking. We assessed the effects of LBNP (−50 mmHg) vs. head-up tilt (HUT; at 70°) in 10 healthy subjects (5 female) on transcranial Doppler-determined cerebral blood flow velocity (CBF v) in the middle cerebral artery and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) as estimated from the blood pressure signal (finger plethysmography). CPP was maintained during LBNP but decreased after 2 min in response to HUT, leading to an ~15% difference in CPP between LBNP and HUT ( P ≤ 0.020). Mean CBF v initially decreased similarly in response to LBNP and for HUT, but, from minute 3 on, the decline became ~50% smaller ( P ≤ 0.029) during LBNP. The reduction in end-tidal Pco2 partial pressure (PetCO2) was comparable but with an earlier return toward baseline values in response to LBNP but not during HUT ( P = 0.008). We consider the larger decrease in CBF v during HUT vs. LBNP attributable to the pronounced reduction in PetCO2 and to gravitational influences on CPP, and this should be taken into account when applying LBNP as an MRI-compatible orthostatic stress modality.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Lower-body negative pressure (LBNP) has the potential to serve as a MRI-compatible surrogate of orthostatic stress but a comparison with actual orthostasis was lacking. This study showed that the pronounced reduction in end-tidal Pco2 together with gravitational effects on the brain circulation lead to a larger decline in cerebral blood flow velocity in response to head-up tilt than during lower-body negative pressure. This should be taken into account when employing lower-body negative pressure as MRI-compatible alternative to orthostatic stress.
Effects of Aromatic Ammoniums on Methyl Ammonium Lead Iodide Hybrid Perovskite Materials
Authors: Yang Jianli , Yu Yan , Zeng Liyang , Li Yiting , Pang Yaoqi , Huang Fuqiang , Lin Bo-Lin
Published: January 2017

The introduction of bulky ammoniums into methyl ammonium lead iodide hybrid perovskites (MAPbI3) has emerged as a promising strategy to improve the properties of these materials. In the present work, we studied the effects of several aromatic ammoniums onto the structural, electronic, and optical properties of MAPbI3. Although powder XRD data suggest that the bulky cations are not involved in the bulk phase of the MAPbI3, a surprisingly large effect of the bulky cations onto the photoluminescence properties was observed.
Multisensor Fusion of Landsat Images for High‐Resolution Thermal Infrared Images Using Sparse Representations
Authors: Jin Hong Sung , Han Dongyeob
Published: January 2017

Land surface temperature (LST) is an important parameter in the analysis of climate and human‐environment interactions. Landsat Earth observation satellite data including a thermal band have been used for environmental research and applications; however, the spatial resolution of this thermal band is relatively low. This study investigates an efficient method of fusing Landsat panchromatic and thermal infrared images using a sparse representation (SR) technique. The application of SR is used for the estimation of missing details of the available thermal infrared (TIR) image to enhance its spatial features. First, we propose a method of building a proper dictionary considering the spatial resolution of the original thermal image. Second, a sparse representation relation between low‐ and high‐resolution images is constructed in terms of the Landsat spectral response. We then compare the fused images created with different sampling factors and patch sizes. The results of both qualitative and quantitative evaluation show that the proposed method improves spatial resolution and preserves the thermal properties of basic LST data for use with environmental problems.
An Evolutionary Game Model of Knowledge Workers’ Counterproductive Work Behaviors Based on Preferences
Authors: Chen Si-hua
Published: January 2017

Knowledge workers’ counterproductive work behaviors (CWB) always cause great loss to enterprises, but it is hard to supervise these behaviors. Based on the analysis of the causes of these behaviors, this paper builds a theoretical model of knowledge workers’ CWB and proposes that knowledge workers’ CWB are influenced by both rational and irrational factors. Regarding contextual factors and individual factors as risk preferences of knowledge workers, this paper establishes an asymmetrical evolutionary game model of enterprise supervision. Then, multiagent modeling simulation is conducted to discuss the effect of both formal and informal constraints on knowledge workers’ CWB and, based on it, the intervention strategies of enterprises are proposed. The simulation results show that the effect of informal constraints is bigger than the effect of formal constraints. The working environment and knowledge workers’ personality traits are the key factors to produce CWB.
The Effect of the Treatment with Heated Humidified High-Flow Nasal Cannula on Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome in China: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Zheng Ge , Huang Xiao-qiu , Zhao Hui-hui , Jin Guo-Xing , Wang Bin
Published: January 2017

Background. Noninvasive respiratory support is considered the optimal method of providing assistance to preterm babies with breathing problems, including nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) and humidified high flow nasal cannula (HHHFNC). The evidence of the efficacy and safety of HHHFNC used as the primary respiratory support for respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is insufficient in low- and middle-income countries. Objective. To investigate the effect of heated humidified high flow nasal cannula on neonatal respiratory distress syndrome compared with nasal continuous positive airway pressure. Methods. An observational cross-sectional study was performed at a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit in suburban Wenzhou, China, in the period between January 2014 and December 2015. Results. A total of 128 infants were enrolled in the study: 65 in the HHHFNC group and 63 in the NCPAP group. The respiratory support with HHHFNC was similar to that with NCPAP with regard to the primary outcome. There is no significant difference between two groups in secondary outcomes. Comparing with NCPAP group, the incidence of nasal damage was lower in HHHFNC group. Conclusions. HHHFNC is an effective and well-tolerated strategy as the primary treatment of mild to moderate RDS in preterm infants older than 28 weeks of GA.
Association of Fucosyltransferase 2 Gene Polymorphisms with Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Patients from Southeast China
Authors: Wu Hao , Sun Liang , Lin Dao-po , Shao Xiao-xiao , Xia Sheng-long , Lv Ming
Published: January 2017

Aims. Fucosyltransferase 2 (FUT2) gene potentially affects the constituent of intestinal microbiota, which play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study investigated the association ofFUT2gene polymorphisms with IBD in southeast China.Methods. We collected 671 IBD patients and 502 healthy controls.FUT2gene polymorphisms (C357T, A385T, and G428A) were determined by SNaPshot. Frequencies of theFUT2genotypes, alleles, and haplotype between groups were compared byχ2test.Results. The allele and genotype frequencies ofFUT2did not differ between ulcerative colitis patients and controls (allP>0.05). However, mutant allele and genotype ofFUT2(A385T) were significantly increased in Crohn’s disease (CD) patients (P=0.024, OR = 1.271, and 95% CI = 1.031–1.565;P<0.001, OR = 1.927, and 95% CI = 1.353–2.747, resp.). The same conclusion was drawn fromFUT2(G428A) (P=0.023, OR = 3.324, and 95% CI = 1.108–9.968;P=0.044, OR = 1.116–10.137, and 95% CI = 1.116–10.137, resp.). The haplotype TT formed with “C357T and A385T” was more prevalent in CD patients than in controls (P=0.020, OR = 1.277, and 95% CI = 1.036–1.573). Besides, frequencies of mutant allele and genotype ofFUT2(A385T) were significantly lower in patients with ileocolonic CD than in those with colonic CD (P=0.001and 0.002, resp.) and ileal CD (P=0.007and 0.004, resp.).Conclusions.FUT2gene polymorphisms and haplotypes were associated with the susceptibility to CD but not UC.
Effect of Steaming and Boiling on the Antioxidant Properties and Biogenic Amines Content in Green Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) Varieties of Different Colours
Authors: Preti Raffaella , Rapa Mattia , Vinci Giuliana
Published: January 2017

Effects of boiling and steaming cooking methods were studied on total polyphenols, antioxidant capacity, and biogenic amines of three green bean varieties, purple, yellow, and green. The vegetables gave good values both for antioxidant capacity and for phenolics content, with the purple variety being the richest in healthful components. Both the heat treatments affected the antioxidant properties of these vegetables, with boiling that reduced the initial antioxidant capacity till 30% in the yellow variety, having the same trend for total polyphenols, with the major decrement of 43% in the green variety. On the contrary, biogenic amines significantly increased only after boiling in green and yellow variety, while purple variety did not show any changes in biogenic amines after cooking. The steaming method showed being better cooking approach in order to preserve the antioxidant properties of green beans varieties and to maintain the biogenic amines content at the lowest level.
Improved Path Loss Simulation Incorporating Three-Dimensional Terrain Model Using Parallel Coprocessors
Authors: Loo Zhang Bin , Chong Poh Kit , Lee Kim Yee , Yap Wun-She
Published: January 2017

Current network simulators abstract out wireless propagation models due to the high computation requirements for realistic modeling. As such, there is still a large gap between the results obtained from simulators and real world scenario. In this paper, we present a framework for improved path loss simulation built on top of an existing network simulation software, NS-3. Different from the conventional disk model, the proposed simulation also considers the diffraction loss computed using Epstein and Peterson’s model through the use of actual terrain elevation data to give an accurate estimate of path loss between a transmitter and a receiver. The drawback of high computation requirements is relaxed by offloading the computationally intensive components onto an inexpensive off-the-shelf parallel coprocessor, which is a NVIDIA GPU. Experiments are performed using actual terrain elevation data provided from United States Geological Survey. As compared to the conventional CPU architecture, the experimental result shows that a speedup of 20x to 42x is achieved by exploiting the parallel processing of GPU to compute the path loss between two nodes using terrain elevation data. The result shows that the path losses between two nodes are greatly affected by the terrain profile between these two nodes. Besides this, the result also suggests that the common strategy to place the transmitter in the highest position may not always work.
Comparative Analysis of Nutritional Value ofOreochromis niloticus(Linnaeus), Nile Tilapia, Meat from Three Different Ecosystems
Authors: Jim Fanuel , Garamumhango Penina , Musara Colin
Published: January 2017

Determination of protein, lipid, and mineral content of fish meat is necessary to ensure that it meets requirements for food regulations and commercial specifications. The objective of the present study was to determine the chemical composition ofOreochromis niloticus(L.), Nile tilapia, under three different ecosystems: (1) high pollution and high density ofEichhornia crassipes, that is, water hyacinth (Lake Chivero), (2) medium pollution and medium density of water hyacinth (Lake Manyame), and (3) low pollution and low density of water hyacinth (Lake Kariba). Dry matter, protein, lipids, and ash were evaluated by proximate analysis. Minerals were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and pH was determined by a pH meter. Lake Kariba fish had the highest percentage of dry matter, protein, and ash. These qualities were correlated to low levels of pollutants and high oxygen content in the harvest waters. The phosphorus content of fish from Lake Chivero was very high, in tandem with phosphate levels in the harvest waters. In addition, water from Lake Chivero had an alkaline pH, high nitrate, and low oxygen content. The results suggest that effluent from sewage works and fertilizer industries caused pollution and proliferation of water hyacinth, contributing to pervasion of the chemical composition of fish.
MicroRNAs-Dependent Regulation of PPARs in Metabolic Diseases and Cancers
Authors: Portius Dorothea , Sobolewski Cyril , Foti Michelangelo
Published: January 2017

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a family of ligand-dependent nuclear receptors, which control the transcription of genes involved in energy homeostasis and inflammation and cell proliferation/differentiation. Alterations of PPARs’ expression and/or activity are commonly associated with metabolic disorders occurring with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver disease, as well as with inflammation and cancer. Emerging evidence now indicates that microRNAs (miRNAs), a family of small noncoding RNAs, which fine-tune gene expression, play a significant role in the pathophysiological mechanisms regulating the expression and activity of PPARs. Herein, the regulation of PPARs by miRNAs is reviewed in the context of metabolic disorders, inflammation, and cancer. The reciprocal control of miRNAs expression by PPARs, as well as the therapeutic potential of modulating PPAR expression/activity by pharmacological compounds targeting miRNA, is also discussed.
Multiperiod Hierarchical Location Problem of Transit Hub in Urban Agglomeration Area
Authors: Li Ting-ting , Song Rui , He Shi-wei , Bi Ming-kai , Yin Wei-chuan , Zhang Ying-qun
Published: January 2017

With the rapid urbanization in developing countries, urban agglomeration area (UAA) forms. Also, transportation demand in UAA grows rapidly and presents hierarchical feature. Therefore, it is imperative to develop models for transit hubs to guide the development of UAA and better meet the time‐varying and hierarchical transportation demand. In this paper, the multiperiod hierarchical location problem of transit hub in urban agglomeration area (THUAA) is studied. A hierarchical service network of THUAA with a multiflow, nested, and noncoherent structure is described. Then a multiperiod hierarchical mathematical programming model is proposed, aiming at minimizing the total demand weighted travel time. Moreover, an improved adaptive clonal selection algorithm is presented to solve the model. Both the model and algorithm are verified by the application to a real‐life problem of Beijing‐Tianjin‐Hebei Region in China. The results of different scenarios in the case show that urban population migration has a great impact on the THUAA location scheme. Sustained and appropriate urban population migration helps to reduce travel time for urban residents.
On the Periods of Parallel Dynamical Systems
Authors: Aledo Juan A. , Diaz Luis G. , Martinez Silvia , Valverde Jose C.
Published: January 2017

In this work, we provide conditions to obtain fixed point theorems for parallel dynamical systems over graphs with (Boolean) maxterms and minterms as global evolution operators. In order to do that, we previously prove that periodic orbits of different periods cannot coexist, which implies that Sharkovsky’s order is not valid for this kind of dynamical systems.
Multigroup Synchronization in 1D-Bernoulli Chaotic Collaborative CDMA
Authors: Suresh Babu Sumith Babu , Kumar R.
Published: January 2017

Code-division multiple access (CDMA) has played a remarkable role in the field of wireless communication systems, and its capacity and security requirements are still being addressed. Collaborative multiuser transmission and detection are a contemporary technique used in CDMA systems. The performance of these systems is governed by the proper accommodation of the users and by proper synchronization schemes. The major research concerns in the existing multiuser overloaded CDMA schemes are (i) statistically uncorrelated PN sequences that cause multiple-access interference (MAI) and (ii) the security of the user’s data. In this paper, a novel grouped CDMA scheme, the 1D-Bernoulli chaotic collaborative CDMA (BCC-CDMA), is introduced, in which mutually orthogonal chaotic sequences spread the users’ data within a group. The synchronization of multiple groups in this scheme has been analyzed under MAI limited environments and the results are presented. This increases the user capacity and also provides sufficient security as a result of the correlation properties possessed by the chaotic codes. Multigroup synchronization is achieved using a 1D chaotic pilot sequence generated by the Bernoulli Map. The mathematical model of the proposed system is described and compared with the theoretical model of the synchronization in CDMA, the simulation results of which are presented.
Effects of Two DifferentPozolePreparation Processes on Quality Variables and Pasting Properties of Processed Maize Grain
Authors: Vázquez-Carrillo María Gricelda , Santiago-Ramos David , Domínguez-Rendón Edith , Audelo-Benites Marco Antonio
Published: January 2017

The effects of two differentpozolepreparation processes, traditional (TP) and industrial (IP), on quality variables, chemical composition, and pasting properties of processed grain of nine maize landraces were evaluated. Nixtamalization and steeping time in TP (~15 h) allowed more water absorption resulting in higher moisture content as well as softer debranned nixtamal relative to the debranned nixtamal produced by IP (52 min). Steeping in TP and bleaching in IP increased the pasting temperature, peak viscosity, and time to peak viscosity of maize starch. Flowering time was shorter in IP (<120 min) than in TP (>120 min) and was significantly affected by the hardness of debranned nixtamal and bleached precooked grains. Total dry matter loss was higher in IP (>10.5%) than in TP (<5.0%), mainly due to the complete elimination of pedicel and pericarp by the Ca(OH)2+ NaOH solution during cooking. Soft grains, with low test weight, a high proportion of floury endosperm, and high peak viscosity, are required to obtain higher yield of bleached precooked grains and soft flowered grains in both processes.
Novel Noncommutative Cryptography Scheme Using Extra Special Group
Authors: Kumar Gautam , Saini Hemraj
Published: January 2017

Noncommutative cryptography (NCC) is truly a fascinating area with great hope of advancing performance and security for high end applications. It provides a high level of safety measures. The basis of this group is established on the hidden subgroup or subfield problem (HSP). The major focus in this manuscript is to establish the cryptographic schemes on the extra special group (ESG). ESG is showing one of the most appropriate noncommutative platforms for the solution of an open problem. The working principle is based on the random polynomials chosen by the communicating parties to secure key exchange, encryption-decryption, and authentication schemes. This group supports Heisenberg, dihedral order, and quaternion group. Further, this is enhanced from the general group elements to equivalent ring elements, known by the monomials generations for the cryptographic schemes. In this regard, special or peculiar matrices show the potential advantages. The projected approach is exclusively based on the typical sparse matrices, and an analysis report is presented fulfilling the central cryptographic requirements. The order of this group is more challenging to assail like length based, automorphism, and brute-force attacks.
Zika Virus-Induced Microcephaly and Its Possible Molecular Mechanism
Authors: Faizan Md Imam , Abdullah Mohd , Ali Sher , Naqvi Irshad H. , Ahmed Anwar , Parveen Shama
Published: January 2017

Zika virus is an arthropod-borne re-emerging pathogen associated with the global pandemic of 2015-2016. The devastating effect of Zika viral infection is reflected by its neurological manifestations such as microcephaly in newborns. This scenario evoked our interest to uncover the neurotropic localization, multiplication of the virus, and the mechanism of microcephaly. The present report provides an overview of a possible molecular mechanism of Zika virus-induced microcephaly based on recent publications. Transplacental transmission of Zika viral infection from mother to foetus during the first trimester of pregnancy results in propagation of the virus in human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs), where entry is facilitated by the receptor (AXL protein) leading to the alteration of signalling and immune pathways in host cells. Further modification of the viral-induced TLR3-mediated immune network in the infected hNPCs affects viral replication. Downregulation of neurogenesis and upregulation of apoptosis in hNPCs leads to cell cycle arrest and death of the developing neurons. In addition, it is likely that the environmental, physiological, immunological, and genetic factors that determine in utero transmission of Zika virus are also involved in neurotropism. Despite the global concern regarding the Zika-mediated epidemic, the precise molecular mechanism of neuropathogenesis remains elusive.
On the Road to Belgrade: Yugoslavia, Third World Neutrals, and the Evolution of Global Non-Alignment, 1954–1961
Authors: Životić Aleksandar , Čavoški Jovan
Published: January 2017

Attempts by Yugoslav leaders to redirect their country's foreign policy orientation and redefine their priorities came to the fore in 1954. Yugoslav officials explicitly affirmed a long-term foreign policy goal of strengthening and developing relations with Arab countries, India, and other Asian and African countries that had no ties to existing political blocs. The idea of creating a wide movement deprived of hierarchical relations and centers of decision-making was much more acceptable for the Third World. The movement promoted peace and stability, opposed tensions and conflicts, and sought mutual cooperation and development. All these efforts demanded putting together a much broader international coalition than in just Asia and Africa. This is how the Non-Aligned Movement arose and took a more definitive shape after the Cairo Conference in 1964 and the Lusaka Summit in 1970.
Debunking Arguments from Insensitivity
Authors: Braddock Matthew
Published: January 2017

Heightened awareness of the origins of our moral judgments pushes many in the direction of moral skepticism, in the direction of thinking we are unjustified in holding our moral judgments on a realist understanding of the moral truths. A classic debunking argument fleshes out this worry: the best explanation of our moral judgments does not appeal to their truth, so we are unjustified in holding our moral judgments. But it is unclear how to get from the explanatory premise to the debunking conclusion. This paper shows how to get from here to there by way of epistemic insensitivity. First, we reconstruct Richard Joyce’s evolutionary debunking argument from insensitivity. Second, we raise epistemological difficulties for Joyce’s argument. Third, we develop and defend a new debunking argument from insensitivity.