Search

Introduction. Kinesiophobia can negatively influence perceived knee function after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Less is known about its influence on perceived sports capability, and gait kinematics. Methods. At 3 months after ACLR, 34 male patients completed the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK). Raw and grouped scores (group 1 = high kinesiophobia; group 2 = low kinesiophobia) were compared with perceived sports capability and gait kinematics over the initial 9 months after ACLR. The Tegner Activity Level Scale (TALS) was completed pre-injury, before ACLR, and at 6 and 9 months after ACLR. The Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale was completed pre-surgery, and at 6 and 9 months after ACLR. Walking and running gait analysis was performed at 3 and 6 months; and 6 months after ACLR, respectively (P ≤ 0.05). Results. Group TALS scores were similar pre-injury, however, Group 1 had lower TALS scores pre-surgery, and at 6 and 9 months after ACLR. Inverse relationships were observed for the 3 month TSK score and TALS scores before ACLR, and at 6 and 9 months afterwards. By 9 months following ACLR, kinesiophobia remained related to sports capability. Kinesiophobia had a stronger influence on side-to-side gait asymmetries than surgical side for hip adduction and mid-stance knee flexion when walking at 3 months after ACLR, for mid-stance knee flexion and terminal stance knee extension when walking at 6 months after ACLR, and for terminal stance knee extension when running at 6 months after ACLR. Conclusions. High kinesiophobia following ACLR was related to walking and running gait kinematic characteristics and sports capability perceptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dc magnetron co-sputtering technique was used in fabricating amorphous carbon films containing magnetic Fe[sub 3]C nanograins. A composite target of a 2-in.-diam graphite disk plus several pieces of iron rods, 2 mm in diameter and 4 mm in length, were used. The films containing pure Fe[sub 3]C grains could be obtained only in proper sputtering conditions. Films containing only grains of Fe[sub 3]C phase were subjected to postdeposition annealing at temperatures of 250 to 600 °C for 60 and 90 min, respectively. Auger electron spectroscopy was used to determine the atomic concentration and its fluctuations. The microstructure and phases of grains were determined by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and selected area diffraction patterns. Very good crystallinity appeared at T[sub a] ≥ 250 °C. From the HRTEM image, lattice spacings of 6.7 Å-corresponding to Fe[sub 3]C (001) planes—and 4.3 Å—corresponding to Fe[sub 3]C (100) planes—were observed. Higher annealing temperature and larger annealing time caused an increase of grain size. The largest grain (18 nm) was obtained at T[sub a] = 550 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this analysis was to explore associations between paraoxonase-1 levels, gene polymorphisms and systemic lupus erythematosus. Methods: Meta-analyses of paraoxonase-1 levels and Q192R and L55M and polymorphisms in systemic lupus erythematosus were conducted. Results: Nine articles were incorporated in our meta-analysis, which uncovered that the paraoxonase-1 level was decreased in systemic lupus erythematosus compared to control (standard mean difference = −1.626, 95% confidence interval = −2.829–−0.424, p = 0.008). Ethnicity-specific meta-analysis demonstrated a relation tendency between decreased paraoxonase-1 activity and lupus in Europeans (standard mean difference = −1.236, 95% confidence interval = −2.634–0.163, p = 0.083). Paraoxonase-1 activity was reduced in systemic lupus erythematosus in a single Arab and African population. Decreased paraoxonase-1 activity was found in a small sample of systemic lupus erythematosus patients (standard mean difference = −1.642, 95% confidence interval = −3.076–−0.247, p = 0.021). Ethnicity-specific analysis indicated a relationship between the paraoxonase-1 55 M allele in the Arab systemic lupus erythematosus population. However, a lack of association with systemic lupus erythematosus and the paraoxonase-1 192 R allele was observed. Conclusions: Meta-analyses revealed reduced paraoxonase-1 activity in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and found possible associations between systemic lupus erythematosus and paraoxonase-1 L55M polymorphism in a specific ethnic group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to systematically review evidence regarding the association between CD40 polymorphisms and systemic lupus erythematosus and between soluble CD40 (sCD40) and CD40 ligand (sCD40L) levels and systemic lupus erythematosus. Methods: We performed a meta-analysis on the association between CD40 rs4810495, rs1883832, and rs376545 polymorphisms and systemic lupus erythematosus risk and sCD40/sCD40L levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and controls. Results: Fourteen studies were included. Ethnicity-specific meta-analysis indicated a significant association between the T allele of CD40 rs4810485 polymorphism and systemic lupus erythematosus in Europeans (odds ratio = 0.715, 95% confidence interval = 0.641–0.832, p < 0.001) and a trend toward an association between the T allele and systemic lupus erythematosus in Asians (odds ratio = 1.255, 95% confidence interval = 0.978–1.810, p = 0.074). Furthermore, a significant association was reported between systemic lupus erythematosus and the C allele of CD40 rs1883832 polymorphism (odds ratio = 1.235, 95% confidence interval = 1.087–1.405, p = 0.001) and A allele of CD40 rs3765456 polymorphism and systemic lupus erythematosus in Asians (odds ratio = 1.184, 95% confidence interval = 1.040–1.348, p = 0.011). sCD40 and sCD40L levels were significantly higher in SLE than in controls (standardized mean difference = 1.564, 95% confidence interval = 0.256–2.872, p = 0.019 and standardized mean difference = 1.499, 95% confidence interval = 1.031–1.967, p < 0.001, respectively). Stratification based on ethnicity revealed higher sCD40L levels in the systemic lupus erythematosus group among European, Asian, North American, and Arab populations. Conclusions: Our meta-analyses found associations between CD40 rs4810495, rs1883832, and rs376545 polymorphisms and systemic lupus erythematosus susceptibility and significantly higher sCD40 and sCD40L levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus than in controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant pathogenic Pseudomonas species produce effectors, toxins and cyclic lipopeptides to infect various host plants. Despite many studies aiming to understand the underlying mechanisms of virulence in Pseudomonas spp., the function of genes in the srf gene cluster including srfC, which was formerly known as HopL1, remains undetermined. To investigate the roles of srf genes in the virulence of the bacterial pathogen, each srfA, srfB, srfC and srfD gene from the srf cluster of Pseudomonas cichorii JBC1 was knocked out. When tomato seedlings were infected with the knockout mutants by flood inoculation, disease incidence was suppressed only in srfC‐defective mutants (∆srfC) compared to wildtype. Interestingly, when the ∆srfC strain was inoculated directly into the apoplast of tomato leaves by vacuum infiltration, disease developed similar to that of the wildtype. In addition, the ∆srfC strain showed defective swarming motility and biofilm formation, and the attachment of ∆srfC cells on the leaf surface was significantly reduced compared to wildtype. Furthermore, droplets of the ∆srfC culture supernatant did not spread on a hydrophobic surface, unlike the wildtype. The results indicate that the SrfC protein plays important roles in swarming motility, biofilm formation and attachment/colonization on host surfaces; thus, it is beneficial for the pathogen's dispersion and entry into host tissues and consequently contributes to disease development. This study elucidates for the first time the functional role of srfC in P. cichorii virulence. The results will broaden understanding of plant and bacterial pathogen interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Vitamin D is considered a regulator of the immune system, and its polymorphisms have been associated with psoriasis in some but not all reports. Aim: To explore whether vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to psoriasis. Methods: Meta‐analyses were conducted to determine the associations between psoriasis and the VDR ApaI, TaqI, BsmI and FokI polymorphisms in all participants, and stratified by ethnic group. Results: In total, 16 studies on VDR polymorphisms and psoriasis were included in this meta‐analysis, which involved 2086 patients and 2182 controls. The meta‐analysis indicated an association between psoriasis and the VDR TaqI TT genotype in Caucasian (OR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.00–1.66, P < 0.05), but not in Asian (OR = 1.32, 95% CI = 0.89–1.96, P = 0.16) populations. However, no association was found between psoriasis and the VDR TaqI polymorphism using dominant, allele contrast or homozygous contrast models. No association was found between psoriasis and either the VDR ApaI, BsmI or FokI polymorphisms by meta‐analyses of the allele contrast, recessive, or dominant models or homozygous contrast models in the overall, Caucasian or Asian populations. Conclusion: This meta‐analysis showed that polymorphisms in VDR ApaI, BsmI and FokI are not associated with psoriasis susceptibility in overall, Caucasian or Asian populations. However, the VDR TaqI polymorphism is associated with psoriasis susceptibility in Caucasian populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine whether the functional interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) polymorphism rs2004640 is associated with susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in multiple ethnic populations. Methods: A meta-analysis was conducted on the T allele of the IRF5 rs2004640 polymorphism in all study participants as well as each ethnic population. Results: Twenty research articles that included 28 comparative studies of 20,892 patients and 24,930 controls were included in the meta-analysis. The Asian population had a much lower prevalence of the T allele than any other study population at 28%, and the European population had the highest prevalence of the T allele at 52%. Meta-analysis showed an association between the IRF5 rs2004640 polymorphism and SLE in all participants (odds ratio = 1.472, 95% confidence interval = 1.370–1.582, p < 0.001). Analysis after stratification by ethnicity indicated that the IRF5 rs2004640 T allele is significantly associated with SLE in Europeans, Asians, Latin Americans and Arabs. Conclusions: This meta-analysis confirms that the IRF5 rs2004640 polymorphism is associated with SLE susceptibility in different ethnic groups, and that its prevalence is ethnicity dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immiscible flows that involve radial displacements of shear-thinning or shear-thickening fluids by a Newtonian fluid in a homogeneous porous medium are modeled numerically. The interfacial instabilities are tracked in time for different values of the rheological parameters, namely, the Deborah number (De) and the power-law index (n), and are characterized through the effective number of fingers and the finger area density. The results of the study reveal that the effects of these two parameters on the instability are not monotonic, and it is found that the flow is least unstable for some critical value of either De or n. The dependence of these critical values, in particular, on the mobility ratio (M) and capillary number (Ca) is analyzed. It is found that when all other parameters are fixed, the critical Deborah number (Dec) increases as the power-law index increases in shear-thinning fluids or decreases in shear-thickening ones. Similarly, the critical power-law index (nc) increases with increasing (decreasing) Deborah number in shear-thinning (shear-thickening) flows. Furthermore, both critical parameters are found to vary monotonically with the mobility ratio, with the dependence most noticeable at small values of M. Their variation with the capillary number is however nonmonotonic reaching an extremum at an intermediate value of Ca. An examination of the rate of shear strain at the interface reveals that it consistently shows the smoothest variation and the smallest average value at the critical parameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This study aimed to examine whether alcohol intake is causally associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods We performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using the inverse-variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, and MR-Egger regression methods. We used the publicly available summary statistics of alcohol intake frequency from the UK Biobank genome-wide association studies (GWASs; n = 336,965) as the exposure and an SLE GWAS consisting of 1311 SLE and 1783 control subjects of European descent as the outcome. Results We selected 20 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with alcohol intake frequency at genome-wide significance as instrumental variables to improve inference. The IVW method found no evidence to support a causal association between alcohol intake and SLE (beta = –0.413, SE = 0.513, p = 0.421). The MR-Egger regression revealed that directional pleiotropy was unlikely to bias the result (intercept = 0.031, p = 0.582). The MR-Egger analysis found no causal association between alcohol intake and SLE (beta = –1.494, SE = 1.996, p = 0.464). Likewise, the weighted median approach also did not provide evidence of a causal association between alcohol intake and SLE (beta = –0.538, SE = 0.574, p = 0.349). The MR estimates determined using the IVW, weighted median, and MR-Egger regression methods were consistent and results from a "leave-one-out" analysis demonstrated that no single SNP was driving the IVW point estimate. Conclusions The results of MR analysis do not support a causal inverse association between alcohol intake and SLE occurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Provides information on a study that investigated the light-emission characteristics of a white-light-emitting electroluminescent device with a doubly doped ZnS:Pr,Ce,F phosphor layer. Details on the specimen preparation; Results and discussion; Conclusion.

Presents a study which obtained x-ray diffraction patterns of zinc sulfide:manganese (ZnS:Mn) powder and thin film to investigate the formation of the cubic and the hexagonal phases of the host material as a function of Mn concentration. Experimental procedures; Analysis and discussion; Conclusions.

Presents a study that observed the decrease of the number of effective emission centers Mn&sup2+; in the aged ZnS:Mn electroluminescence devices. Experimental procedure; Experimental results; Conclusion.

Presents a study which investigated the fluorescence emission and excitation spectra of white-light emitting strontium sulphur: praseodymium, fluoride thin film electroluminescent devices. Experimental methods; Results and discussion; Analysis of the hyperfine structure of an isolated manganese&sup2+; ion.

Presents a study that investigated the silicon implantation efficiency, the silicon depth profile and the vacancy formation for silicon-implanted gallium arsenide crystals. Background on the implantation of impurity atoms in semiconductor materials; Discussion on the incident angle dependence of the implantation depth of the silicon ions and the vacancies of gallium and arsenic.

Presents a study which investigated the defect levels in silicon ion-implanted gallium arsenide semiconductors with a thermally stimulated current (TSC) technique. Sample preparation and experimental details; Information on TSC; Results and discussion.

Focuses on a study which examined the reactive ion etching of aluminum oxide in carbon hydrogen fluoride[sub3] and sulphur fluoride[sub6] generated by electron cyclotron resonance in conjunction with in situ ellipsometric measurement for thickness variation. Information on reactive ion etching; Chemical sputtering of aluminum oxide; Measurement of threshold ion energy.

While physical realization of practical large-scale quantum computers is still ongoing, theoretical research of quantum computing applications is facilitated on classical computing platforms through simulation and emulation methods. Nevertheless, the exponential increase in resource requirement with the increase in the number of qubits is an inherent issue in classical modeling of quantum systems. In the effort to alleviate the critical scalability issue in existing FPGA emulation works, a novel FPGA-based quantum circuit emulation framework based on Heisenberg representation is proposed in this paper. Unlike previous works that are restricted to the emulations of quantum circuits of small qubit sizes, the proposed FPGA emulation framework can scale-up to 120-qubit on Altera Stratix IV FPGA for the stabilizer circuit case study while providing notable speed-up over the equivalent simulation model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Sarcopenia is significantly associated with the degree of liver fibrosis. This study investigated the influence of sarcopenia on liver fibrosis in individuals with chronic hepatitis B. Methods: Data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 2008‐2011 were analysed. The sarcopenia index (total appendicular skeletal muscle mass [kg]/body mass index [kg/m2]) was calculated using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Sarcopenia was defined as the lowest quintile sarcopenia index value (cut‐offs: 0.89 for men and 0.58 for women). The fibrotic burden was assessed using the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score and fibrosis‐4 index. Significant fibrosis was defined as the highest nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score quartile and a fibrosis‐4 index ≥2.67. Results: Among the 506 respondents with chronic hepatitis B (258 men and 248 women), the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score and fibrosis‐4 index identified sarcopenia and significant fibrosis in 126 (24.9%) and 217 (42.9%), respectively. Sarcopenia was significantly associated with significant fibrosis, regardless of the fibrosis prediction model used (all P < 0.05). When the study population was stratified according to metabolic factors, sarcopenia was specifically associated with an increased risk of significant fibrosis among subgroups with obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome and liver steatosis (odds ratio 2.37‐3.57; all P < 0.05). An independent association between sarcopenia and significant fibrosis was identified after adjusting for other confounders (odds ratio 2.67‐3.62 by the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score and 2.04‐2.62 by the fibrosis‐4 index; all P < 0.05). Conclusions: Sarcopenia is associated with significant fibrosis in subjects with chronic hepatitis B, specifically those with obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome and liver steatosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Behçet disease (BD) is a chronic inflammatory disease. Adipokines are synthesized in adipose tissue, and have been reported to play important roles in the pathogenesis of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including BD. Aim: To evaluate the relationship between circulating blood adipokine levels and BD. Methods: We conducted a meta‐analysis of papers reporting on serum/plasma resistin, leptin, adiponectin and visfatin levels in patients with BD and in healthy controls (HCs). We identified 82 relevant studies using electronic and manual search methods, and selected 16 studies for full‐text review based on the title and abstract. Two of these were later excluded (one was a review, one had no data), leaving 14 articles that met the inclusion criteria for this meta‐analysis. Results: The 14 included studies assessed 637 patients with BD and 520 HCs. Compared with the HCs, the BD group had significantly higher levels of leptin [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.68, 95% CI 0.15–1.21, P = 0.01]. Levels of resistin (SMD = 0.51, 95% CI 0.92–0.918, P = 0.02) and adiponectin (SMD = 0.31, 95% CI 0.06–0.56, P = 0.02) were significantly higher in the BD group after adjustment for age, sex and body mass index (BMI), but not without such adjustment (resistin: (SMD = 0.38, 95% CI −0.18 to 0.93, P = 0.19; adiponectin: SMD = −0.59, 95% CI −2.23 to 1.06, P = 0.48). A significantly lower visfatin level was found in the BD group with adjustment (SMD = −1.70, 95% CI −2.14 to −1.25, P < 0.001) but not without adjustment (SMD = 0.31, 95% CI −0.21 to 0.82, P = 0.24). Conclusions: Our meta‐analysis revealed significantly higher circulating resistin, leptin and adiponectin levels and lower visfatin levels in patients with BD than in HCs, indicating that adipokines probably play an important role in BD pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune, inflammatory skin disorder. 25‐hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D] deficiency may contribute to the pathogenesis of psoriasis through reduction in antiproliferative, anti‐inflammatory and antiangiogenic activities. Aim: To evaluate the relationship between circulating 25(OH)D levels and psoriasis, and to determine the correlation between serum/plasma 25(OH)D levels and psoriasis severity. Methods: We performed a meta‐analysis to compare serum/plasma 25(OH)D levels between patients with psoriasis and healthy controls (HCs), and to determine the correlation coefficients between circulating 25(OH)D levels and psoriasis severity as assessed by Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI). Results: Ten articles with a total of 571 patients with psoriasis and 496 HCs were included. The 25(OH)D level was significantly lower in the psoriasis group than in the HC group. Subgroup analysis by sample size revealed a significantly lower level of 25(OH)D in the psoriasis group for large (N > 80) but not for small (N < 80) sample sizes. Stratification by adjustment for age and/or sex or sample type revealed a significantly lower 25(OH)D level in the psoriasis group after adjustment for serum but not after nonadjustment for plasma. Meta‐analysis of the correlation coefficients revealed a small but statistically significant positive correlation between circulating 25(OH)D levels and PASI. Conclusions: This meta‐analysis demonstrated that circulating 25(OH)D levels are lower in patients with psoriasis, and that a small but statistically significant negative correlation exists between 25(OH)D levels and psoriasis severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: To examine the properties of Schisandrin C as an anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant compound, and whether its characteristics promote mitochondrial biogenesis in human dental pulp cells (HDPCs). Methodology: HDPCs were extracted from fresh third molars and cultured for experiments. Reactive oxidative stress (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) formation were analysed by a Muse cell analyser. Western blotting and gelatin zymography were used to identify the presence of antioxidants, as well as anti‐inflammatory and mitochondrial biogenesis with specific antibody. An unpaired Student's t‐test was used for statistical analysis. Results: Schisandrin C inhibited lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated inflammatory molecules; interleukin 1 beta, tumour necrosis factor alpha, intracellular adhesion molecule‐1, vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1, matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and ‐9, NO production, ROS formation, nuclear factor kappa B translocation (P < 0.05) through the mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway. Schisandrin C increased the expression of superoxide dismutase enzymes as well as haem oxygenase‐1 and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma coactivator 1‐alpha through the phosphorylated‐protein kinase B (p‐Akt) and nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor‐2 pathways (P < 0.05). The anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Schisandrin C promoted mitochondrial biogenesis. Conclusions: Schisandrin C has the potential to reduce inflammation and oxidation and to promote mitochondrial biogenesis. Therefore, Schisandrin C may be considered for use as an anti‐inflammatory compound for oral inflammation through mitochondrial biogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective We aimed to evaluate the relationship between circulating leptin levels and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane library databases were searched. Meta-analyses were performed comparing serum/plasma leptin levels in patients with SLE and healthy controls, and on patients with SLE in subgroups based on ethnicity, sample size, data type, and matched variables (age, sex, and/or body mass index (BMI)). Results Eighteen studies including 1333 patients with SLE and 1048 controls were ultimately selected, which showed that leptin levels were significantly higher in the SLE group than in the control group (SMD = 0.611, 95% CI = 0.275–0.947, p < 0.001). When we excluded two outlier studies because of high heterogeneity, leptin levels were also significantly higher in the SLE group than in the control group (SMD = 0.619, 95% CI = 0.431–0.807, p < 0.001). Stratification by ethnicity showed significantly elevated leptin levels in the SLE group in European, Asian, Arab, Latin American, and mixed populations. Subgroup analysis by sample size showed significantly higher leptin levels in the SLE group by small (n ≤ 100) and large sample numbers (n > 100) (SMD = 0.780, 95% CI = 0.445–1.115, p < 0.001; SMD = 0.495, 95% CI = 0.275–0.715, p < 0.001). Stratification by data type revealed significantly higher leptin levels in the original data and imputed data groups. Subgroup analysis adjustment revealed significantly higher leptin levels in the SLE group, regardless of adjustment for variables. Conclusions Our meta-analysis demonstrated that leptin levels were significantly higher in patients with SLE, regardless of ethnicity, sample size, data type, and matched variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Studies that have compared circulating prolactin ( PRL) levels in patients with psoriasis and healthy controls ( HCs) and determined the relation between PRL levels and psoriasis severity have shown mixed results. Aim To evaluate the association between circulating PRL levels and psoriasis, and between serum/plasma PRL levels and psoriasis severity. Methods We performed a meta-analysis comparing serum/plasma PRL levels in patients with psoriasis with those of HCs, and examined the correlation coefficients for circulating PRL levels and psoriasis severity based on Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI). Results In total, 12 studies assessing 446 patients with psoriasis and 401 HCs were included. PRL levels were significantly higher in the psoriasis group than in the HC group [standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.54; 95% CI = 0.18-090; P < 0.01). Stratification by age and sex revealed a significantly higher PRL level in the psoriasis group (SMD = 0.53; 95% CI = 0.15-0.91; P < 0.01). Subgroup analysis by sample size showed a significantly higher PRL level with larger sample sizes ( n ≥ 80) (SMD = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.07-0.95, P = 0.02), but not with smaller sample sizes ( n < 80) in the psoriasis group. Stratification by sample type revealed a significantly higher level of PRL in the sera, but not plasma of the psoriasis group. Meta-analysis of the correlation coefficients showed a positive, although not statistically significant, correlation between circulating PRL levels and PASI (correlation coefficient = 0.48, 95% CI = −0.05 to 0.80, P = 0.08). Conclusion Circulating PRL levels are higher in patients with psoriasis, and PRL levels may correlate with psoriasis severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective In this study, we aimed to assess the relative efficacy and safety of intravenous (IV) or subcutaneous (SC) belimumab compared with those of placebo in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods We performed a Bayesian network meta-analysis to combine the direct and indirect evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efficacy and safety of belimumab 1 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg IV administration, and belimumab 200 mg SC injection, and placebo in patients with active SLE despite having received standard therapy. Results Five RCTs (3460 patients) met the inclusion criteria. The SLE Responder Index (SRI) response rate at week 52 was significantly higher in the belimumab 10 mg/kg group than in the placebo group (OR 2.63, 95% CrI 2.14–3.23). Similarly, the SRI response rates were significantly higher in the belimumab 1 mg/kg, and belimumab 200 mg SC groups than in the placebo group (OR 2.42, 95% CrI 1.90–3.09; OR 1.71, 95% CrI 1.27–2.29). Ranking probability based on surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) indicated that belimumab 10 mg/kg had the highest probability of being the best treatment for achieving the SRI response (SUCRA = 0.9174), followed by belimumab 1 mg/kg (SUCRA = 0.7338), belimumab 200 mg SC (SUCRA = 0.3487), and placebo (SUCRA = 0.0000). However, a sensitivity test by omitting one outlier study showing low SRI response rate compared with the other three studies (11% vs. 33%, 40%, 48%) showed that belimumab 200 mg SC and belimumab 10 mg/kg had the highest probability of being the best treatment for achieving the SRI response (SUCRA = 0.7903, SUCRA = 0.7456), followed by belimumab 1 mg/kg, and placebo. The number of serious adverse events (SAEs) did not differ significantly among the four treatment options. Conclusions Belimumab at 1 and 10 mg/kg IV and belimumab 200 mg SC in combination with standard therapy was an efficacious intervention for active SLE, and was not associated with a significant risk of SAEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetron dc cosputtering of a composite target of graphite disk plus iron rods was used in manufacturing carbon films with Fe[SUB3]C nanograin inclusions. Both temperature- and field-dependent magnetizations, M(T) and M(H), were measured for samples of various carbon concentrations (from 37% to 85%). M(T) were measured in both conditions of zero-field cooling and a field cooling at H = 100 Oe. Experimental results of χ(T), obtained from M(T), of zero-field cooling, were theoretically fitted by using Wolhfarth's model of noninteracting particles with log-normal distribution function of particle size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between circulating prolactin level and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and to establish a correlation between plasma/serum prolactin levels and SLE activity. Methods: We performed a meta-analysis comparing the plasma/serum prolactin levels in patients with SLE to controls, and examined correlation coefficients between circulating prolactin level and SLE disease activity. Results: Twentyfive studies with a total of 1056 SLE patients and 426 controls were included. Prolactin levels were significantly higher overall in the SLE group than in the control group (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.987, 95% CI = 0.512-1.463, p = 4.7 x 10-5). Stratification by ethnicity showed significantly elevated prolactin levels in the SLE group in Asian, Latin American, and mixed populations (SMD = 0.813, 95% CI = 0.137-1.490, p = 0.018; SMD = 0.981, 95% CI = 0.307-1.655, p = 0.004; SMD = 1.469, 95% CI = 0.443-2.495, p = 0.005, respectively), but not in the European population. Subgroup analysis by sample size showed significantly higher prolactin levels in the SLE group by small (n < 30) and large sample numbers (n > 30). Meta-analysis of correlation coefficients showed a significantly positive correlation between circulating prolactin level and SLE activity (correlation coefficient = 0.379, 95% CI = 0.026-0.487, p = 4.0 x 10-9). Circulating prolactin levels were positively associated with SLE activity in European, Asian, and mixed populations (SMD = 0.532, 95% CI = 0.443-0.609p < 1.0 x 10-8; SMD = 0.427, 95% CI = 0.240-0.583, p = 2.4 x 10-5; SMD = 0.433, 95% CI = 0.212-0.591, p = 2.7 x 10-5, respectively). Conclusions: Our meta-analysis demonstrated that circulating prolactin levels are higher in patients with SLE, and that a significantly positive correlation exists between prolactin levels and SLE activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Educational video games can impose high cognitive demands on its users. Two studies were conducted to examine the cognitive process involved in playing an educational digital game. Study 1 examined the effects of users' working memory capacity and gaming expertise on attention and comprehension of the educational messages. The results showed that gaming experts seem to benefit more from having a higher working memory capacity when processing information from the game. However, gaming experts' available working memory did not predict better comprehension. Instead, non-experts' available working memory predicted better comprehension. Study 2 further examined whether these results were caused by insufficient working memory allocation or different attention focus between gaming experts and non-experts. The findings suggest that gaming experts approach the game differently from non-experts, focusing on familiar features and overlooking unfamiliar (educational) information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: : In our preliminary study, the modified Marsh (M-Marsh) model caused an inadvertent underdosing of propofol in underweight patients. However, the predictive performance of the M-Marsh and Schnider models incorporated in commercially available target-controlled infusion (TCI) pumps was not evaluated in underweight patients.Methods: : Thirty underweight patients undergoing elective surgery were randomly allocated to receive propofol via TCI using the M-Marsh or Schnider models. The target effect-site concentrations (Ces) of propofol were, in order, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 2 μg ml -1 . Arterial blood samples were obtained at least 7 min after achieving each pseudo-steady-state.Results: A total of 172 plasma samples were used to determine the predictive performance of both models. The pooled median (95% confidence interval) biases and inaccuracies at a target Ce ≤ 3 μg ml -1 were -22.6 (-28.8 to -12.6) and 31.9 (24.8-36.8) for the M-Marsh model and 9.0 (1.7-16.4) and 28.5 (21.7-32.8) for the Schnider model, respectively. These values at Ce ≥ 4 μg ml -1 were -9.6 (-16.0 to -6.0) and 24.7 (21.1-27.9) for the M-Marsh model and 19.8 (12.9-25.7) and 36.2 (31.4-39.7) for the Schnider model, respectively.Conclusions: The pooled biases and inaccuracies of both models were clinically acceptable. However, the M-Marsh and Schnider models consistently produced negatively and positively biased predictions, respectively, in underweight patients. In particular, the M-Marsh model showed greater inaccuracy at target Ce   ≤   3 μg ml -1 and the Schnider model showed greater inaccuracy at target Ce ≥ 4 μg ml -1 . Therefore, it is necessary to develop a new pharmacokinetic model for propofol in underweight patients.Clinical Trial Registration: KCT0001502. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the relationship between telomere length and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods: PUBMED and EMBASE databases were searched; metaanalyses were performed comparing telomere length in SLE patients and healthy controls, and on SLE patients in subgroups based on ethnicity, sample type, assay method and data type. Results: Eight studies including 472 SLE patients and 365 controls were ultimately selected which showed that telomere length was significantly shorter in the SLE group than in the control group (standardized mean difference (SMD)=-0.835, 95% confidence interval (CI)=-1.291 to -0.380, p=3.3×10-4). Stratification by ethnicity showed significantly shortened telomere length in the SLE group in Caucasian, Asian and mixed populations (SMD=-0.455, 95% CI=-0.763 to -0.147, p=0.004; SMD=-0.887, 95% CI=-1.261 to -0.513, p=3.4×10-4; SMD=-0.535, 95% CI=-0.923 to -0.147, p=0.007; respectively). Furthermore, telomere length was significantly shorter in the SLE group than in the control group in whole blood and peripheral blood mononuclear cell groups (SMD=-0.361, 95% CI=-0.553 to -0.169, p=2.3×10-4; SMD=-1.546, 95% CI=-2.583 to -0.510, p=0.003; respectively); a similar trend was observed in leukocyte groups (SMD=-0.699, 95% CI=-1.511 to -0.114, p=0.092). Meta-analyses based on assay method or data type revealed similar associations. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis demonstrated that telomere length was significantly shorter in patients with SLE, regardless of ethnicity, sample type or assay method evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study aimed to systemically review the evidence regarding the relationship between circulating blood osteopontin (OPN) level and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), correlation between serum OPN levels and SLE activity, and association between OPN polymorphisms and SLE susceptibility. Methods We conducted a meta-analysis on the serum/plasma OPN levels in SLE patients and healthy controls, correlation coefficients between the circulating OPN level and SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) in SLE patients, and the association between OPN polymorphisms and SLE risk. Results Nine studies with 1938 SLE patients and 3037 controls were included. Meta-analysis revealed that, compared with the control group, the OPN level was significantly higher in the SLE group (SMD = 0.965, 95% CI = 0.337–1.393, p = 0.001) and in the SLE group with renal disease (SMD = 2.219, 95% CI = 0.681–3.757, p = 0.005). Meta-analysis of correlation coefficients showed a trend of positive correlation between the circulating OPN level and SLEDAI (correlation coefficient = 0.590, 95% CI = −0.025 to 0.881, p = 0.059). While no association was found between SLE and the OPN 707 T/C and 1083 G/A polymorphisms, a significant association was identified between the OPN 1239 C allele and SLE (OR = 1.192, 95% CI = 1.008–1.410, p = 0.040), and between the OPN 9250 C allele and SLE in Asians (OR = 2.070, 95% CI = 1.570–2.730, p = 2.5 × 10−7). Conclusions Our meta-analysis revealed a significantly higher circulating OPN level in SLE patients, a trend of positive correlation between OPN levels and SLE activity, and a significant association between OPN 1239 C/A and 9250 C/T polymorphisms, and SLE development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study determined whether NLRP3 polymorphisms rs35829419 C/A and rs10754558 C/G were associated with autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Methods An association between the NLRP3 rs35829419 C/A and rs10754558 C/G polymorphisms and autoimmune and inflammatory diseases was determined by performing a meta-analysis by using (1) allele contrast, (2) recessive, (3) dominant, and (4) co-dominant models. Results Thirty comparative studies involving 8069 patients and 8824 controls were included in the meta-analysis. No association was observed between autoimmune and inflammatory diseases and NLRP3 rs35829419 C allele (OR = 1.020, 95% CI = 0.804–1.295, p = 0.869). Stratification by ethnicity showed no association between the NLRP3 rs35829419 C allele and autoimmune and inflammatory diseases in European, Latin American, and Polynesian populations. Stratification by disease type showed no association between the NLRP3 rs35829419 C allele and gout, SLE, RA, celiac disease, and Crohn’s disease. Moreover, no association was observed between autoimmune and inflammatory diseases and the NLRP3 rs10754558 C allele (OR = 1.057, 95% CI = 0.950–1.177, p = 0.310). However, stratification by ethnicity showed an association between the NLRP3 rs10754558 C allele and autoimmune and inflammatory diseases in the Latin American (OR = 1.399, 95% CI = 1.201–1.630, p = 1.6 × 10–6) but not in European and Asian populations. Further, stratification by disease type showed a significant association of the NLRP3 rs10754558 C allele with SLE (OR = 1.465 95% CI = 1.144–1.875, p = 0.002) but not with gout and celiac disease. The same pattern was observed for the NLRP3 rs10754558 C allele in the recessive model. Conclusions Our results indicated that the NLRP3 rs10754558 C/G polymorphism was associated with susceptibility to SLE and with autoimmune and inflammatory diseases in Latin American individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies the anisotropic and giant magnetoresistance (GMR) in cobalt and copper epitaxial multilayers. Difference between GMR and anisotropic MR; Details on the experiment; Discussion on the results of the study.

Provides information on a study that used the mechanical resonance frequency method in measuring Young's moduli for thin films and substrate. Experimental procedure; Results and discussion on the study; Conclusion.

Objective This study aimed to explore whether TYK2 polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Methods We conducted a meta-analysis on the association between TYK2 polymorphisms and autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Results Twelve studies with a total of 16,335 patients and 30,065 controls were included in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis revealed an association between rheumatic diseases and the 2 allele of the TYK2 rs2304256 (OR = 0.885, 95% CI = 0.802–0.978, p = 0.016). Furthermore, stratification by ethnicity identified a significant association between this polymorphism and rheumatic diseases in Caucasians (OR = 0.822, 95% CI = 0.706–0.889, p = 9.5 × 10−7), but not in Asians (OR = 1.127, 95% CI = 0.835–1.522, p = 0.434). Meta-analysis by rheumatic disease type revealed a significant association between the 2 allele of the TYK2 rs2304256 and SLE in Caucasians (OR = 0.737, 95% CI = 0.673–0.808, p < 1.0 × 10−8) but not in Asians (OR = 1.211, 95% CI = 0.813–1.804, p = 0.347). Meta-analysis revealed that the rs12720356 polymorphism was associated with susceptibility to rheumatic diseases in Caucasians (OR = 0.812, 95% CI = 0.661–0.997, p = 0.046) but not in Asians. Interestingly, the rs280519 polymorphism was significantly associated with susceptibility to SLE both in Caucasians and Asians. However, no associations were found between the rs12720270, rs280500, rs280523 and rs8108236 polymorphisms and susceptibility to rheumatic diseases. Conclusions This meta-analysis demonstrates that the TYK2 rs2304256 and rs12720356 polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to rheumatic diseases, rs2304256 polymorphism is associated with SLE in Caucasians, and rs280519 polymorphism is associated with SLE in Caucasians and Asians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims This study aimed to assess all-cause and cause-specific standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods We surveyed studies examining all-cause and/or cause-specific SMR in patients with SLE compared to the general population using PUBMED, EMBASE and Cochrane databases and manual searches. We performed a meta-analysis of all-cause, sex-specific, ethnicity-specific, and cause-specific SMRs in SLE patients. Results Fifteen reports including 26,101 patients with SLE with 4640 deaths met the inclusion criteria. Compared to the general population, all-cause SMR was significantly increased 2.6-fold in patients with SLE (SMR 2.663, 95% CI 2.090–3.393, p < 1.0 × 10−8). Stratification by ethnicity showed that all-cause SMR was 2.721 (95% CI 1.867–3.966, p = 1.9 × 10−6) in Caucasians and 2.587 (95% CI 1.475–4.535, p = 0.001) in Asians. Sex-specific meta-analysis revealed that all-cause SMR was 3.141 (95% CI 2.351–4.198, p < 1.0 × 10−8) for women and 3.516 (95% CI 2.928–4.221, p < 1.0 × 10−8) for men. The risk of mortality was significantly increased for mortality due to renal disease (SMR 4.689, 95% CI 2.357–9.330, p = 1.10 × 10−5), cardiovascular disease (CVD) (SMR 2.253, 95% CI 1.304–3.892, p = 0.004), and infection (SMR 4.980, 95% CI 3.876–6.398, p < 1.0 × 10−8), although there was no significant increase in SMR for mortality due to cancer (SMR 1.163, 95% CI 0.572–2.363, p = 0.676). Conclusions Patients with SLE had higher rates of death from all causes, regardless of sex, ethnicity, renal disease, CVD or infection. However, the risk of death due to malignancy was not increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The aim of this study was to explore whether the interferon (IFN)-γ +874 T/A polymorphism plays a role in modifying the risk of autoimmune diseases. Methods A meta-analysis was conducted on the association between the IFN-γ +874 T/A polymorphism and autoimmune diseases. Results Eighteen studies with a total of 2952 patients and 3832 controls were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed no association between autoimmune diseases and the IFN-γ +874 T allele in all study subjects (odds ratio (OR)=1.023, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.894–1.171, p = 0.738), but stratification by ethnicity indicated an association between the IFN-γ +874 T allele and autoimmune diseases in Latin American subjects (OR = 0.780, 95% CI = 0.629–0.953, p = 0.015). Meta-analysis also revealed an association between autoimmune diseases and the IFN-γ +874 T/A polymorphism in Caucasian and Middle Eastern subjects under a dominant inheritance model (OR = 0.686, 95% CI = 0.489–0.964, p = 0.003; OR = 1.414, 95% CI = 1.102–1.813, p = 0.006). Meta-analysis by autoimmune disease type indicated an association between ITP and the IFN-γ +874 T allele (OR = 1.753, 95% CI = 1.228–2.503, p = 0.002), but not for vasculitis, vitiligo, and auto-immune thyroid disease. Meta-analysis also showed a significant association between the IFN-γ +874 T/A polymorphism and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) under the dominant model (OR = 1.668, 95% CI = 1.114–2.497, p = 0.013). Conclusions This meta-analysis indicates that the IFN-γ +874 T/A polymorphism may play a significant role in modifying the risk of autoimmune diseases in Caucasian, Latin American, and Middle Eastern subjects, and in particular shows that the IFN-γ +874 T/A polymorphism is associated with increased genetic susceptibility to idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and SLE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The aim of this study was to determine whether polymorphisms of the Toll-like receptor (TLR) genes are associated with susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods The authors conducted a meta-analysis of the relationship between 12 TLR polymorphisms and SLE susceptibility. Results In total, 26 studies that involved 11,984 patients and 14,572 controls were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis showed no association between the two alleles of the rs352140, rs5743836, and rs352139 polymorphisms of TLR9 and SLE, but indicated an association between the two alleles of the rs187084 polymorphism (TLR9) and SLE in the overall population (OR = 0.869, 95% CI = 0.762–0.992, P = 0.038). No association was detected between rs3764880 (TLR8) and SLE; however, our meta-analysis indicated an association between rs3764879 (TLR8) and SLE in Caucasians (OR = 1.414, 95% CI = 1.139–1.756, P = 0.002). An association between rs179008 (TLR7) and SLE was found in the African (OR = 0.430, 95% CI = 0.238–0.775, P = 0.005), but not in the Caucasian population (OR = 1.206, 95% CI = 0.932–1.614, P = 0.145). Furthermore, our meta-analysis indicated a significant association between rs3853839 (TLR7) and SLE in the Asian population (OR = 0.773, 95% CI = 0.735, 0.823, P < 1.0 × 10−9). No associations were found between rs5744168 (TLR5), rs4986791 (TLR4), rs4986790 (TLR4), and rs3775291 (TLR3) polymorphisms and SLE susceptibility. Conclusions Our meta-analysis suggests that TLR7, TLR8, and TLR9 polymorphisms are associated with the development of SLE in Caucasian, Asian, and African populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims This study aimed to assess the relative efficacy and safety of tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and cyclophosphamide (CYC) as induction therapy for lupus nephritis. Methods Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus, MMF and CYC for induction therapy in patients with lupus nephritis were included. We performed a Bayesian random-effects network meta-analysis to combine direct and indirect evidence from the RCTs. Results Nine RCTs including 972 patients met the inclusion criteria and pair-wise comparisons were performed, including 11 direct comparisons. Tacrolimus showed a significantly higher overall response rate (complete remission plus partial remission) than CYC (OR 2.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–5.45), and was more efficacious than MMF (OR 1.60, 95% CI 0.70–3.57). MMF was superior to CYC in terms of overall response (OR 1.45, 95% CI 0.96–2.42). Ranking probability based on the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) indicated that tacrolimus had the highest probability of being the best treatment for achieving the overall response (SUCRA = 0.9321), followed by MMF (SUCRA = 0.5385) and CYC (SUCRA = 0.0294). In terms of safety, tacrolimus showed the highest probability of decreasing the risk of serious infections (SUCRA = 0.9253), followed by MMF (SUCRA = 0.4027) and CYC (SUCRA = 0.1720). Conclusions Tacrolimus was the most efficacious induction treatment for patients with lupus nephritis, and had the highest probability of decreasing the risk of serious infections. Higher remission rates combined with a more favorable safety profile suggest that MMF is superior to CYC as induction treatment in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate relationships among oral mucosal epithelial MUC1 expression, salivary stress markers, and female gonadal hormones throughout the menstrual cycle. Subjects and Methods Thirty healthy women (25.9 ± 2.1 years) with regular menstrual cycle were included. Unstimulated ( UWS) and stimulated whole saliva ( SWS) were collected during the menstrual cycle. The expression level of oral mucosal MUC1 was analyzed. 17 β-Estradiol, progesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone ( DHEA), cortisol, chromogranin A (CgA), and blood contamination levels were measured from UWS and SWS. Results Significant positive correlations were observed between 17 β-estradiol and DHEA in UWS, cortisol and CgA in UWS, MUC1 expression and DHEA in SWS, and among cortisol, progesterone, and DHEA in UWS and SWS. Significant negative correlations were observed between MUC1 and cortisol/ DHEA ratio in UWS and SWS. When each phase was analyzed individually, MUC1 expression showed significant negative correlations with cortisol, progesterone, and cortisol/ DHEA ratio in UWS and with progesterone and cortisol/ DHEA ratio in SWS during the mid-luteal phase. A significant negative correlation was also observed between MUC1 and cortisol/ DHEA ratio in UWS during the late luteal phase. Conclusions Stress-related psychoendocrinological interactions throughout the menstrual cycle resulted in a decrease in oral mucosal epithelial MUC1 expression and a weakening of oral mucosal defense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The aim of this study was to determine whether the functional CD40 rs4810485 G/T polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or with susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods A series of meta-analyses were conducted to test for association between the CD40 rs4810485 G/T polymorphism and RA or SLE. Results A total of 21 comparisons involving 15,095 patients and 27,050 controls for RA, and 1353 patients and 2342 controls for SLE were considered. Meta-analysis showed a significant association between the CD40 rs4810485 T allele and RA in all subjects (odds ratio (OR) 0.890, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.846–0.936, p = 5.5 × 10−7). After stratification by ethnicity, the CD40 T allele was found to be significantly associated with RA in Europeans (OR 0.879, 95% CI 0.848–0.901, p = 3.0 × 10−9). A similar pattern of association was observed between the CD40 T allele and RA when the analysis was performed using the recessive, dominant, and additive models. Meta-analysis also showed a significant association between the CD40 polymorphism and SLE in Europeans (OR for the T allele 0.715, 95% CI 0.641–0.832, p = 1.4 × 10−6). Conclusions Our meta-analyses confirm that the CD40 rs4810485 G/T polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to RA and SLE in Europeans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The resistance of 27 commercial kimchi cabbage cultivars against Colletotrichum higginsianum causing anthracnose was evaluated. Among the cultivars with different disease severity, three cultivars, CR-Hagwang, CR-Hwangrock and Houseking-125, showed moderate resistance. Two cultivars, Buram-3-ho (susceptible) and CR-Hagwang (moderate resistance), were chosen for further investigation. Severe necrotic lesions were observed on the C. higginsianum-inoculated leaves in cv. Buram-3-ho, whereas only a few scattered spot lesions were formed on the inoculated leaves of cv. CR-Hagwang. Interestingly, similar susceptibility and resistance were shown in both cultivars when inoculated by fungal ( Alternaria brassicicola) or bacterial ( Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris) pathogens causing black spot or black rot disease, respectively. Pathogenesis-related ( PR) gene expression was analysed during resistant and susceptible responses to anthracnose, black spot and black rot diseases. Semiquantitative RT- PCR analysis revealed that the transcriptional activation of PR1, BGL2, Chi1, PR4, VSP2, LOX2 and GST1 were differentially regulated in the kimchi leaves during resistant, as compared to susceptible, responses. In addition, the PR gene expression was regulated by defence-related hormones salicylic acid, jasmonic acid and ethylene. Taken together, these results suggest that differential defence signalling crosstalk and PR gene expression are involved in cultivar-specific resistance of kimchi cabbage plants to anthracnose, black spot and black rot diseases, and that resistance is strongly associated with the hormone-dependent transcriptional induction of defence genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The TwO-Moment Aerosol Sectional (TOMAS) microphysics model has been integrated into the state-of the- art general circulation model, GISS ModelE2. This paper provides a detailed description of the ModelE2-TOMAS model and evaluates the model against various observations including aerosol precursor gas concentrations, aerosol mass and number concentrations, and aerosol optical depths. Additionally, global budgets in ModelE2-TOMAS are compared with those of other global aerosol models, and the ModelE2-TOMAS model is compared to the default aerosol model in ModelE2, which is a one-moment aerosol (OMA) model (i.e. no aerosol microphysics). Overall, the ModelE2-TOMAS predictions are within the range of other global aerosol model predictions, and the model has a reasonable agreement (mostly within a factor of 2) with observations of sulfur species and other aerosol components as well as aerosol optical depth. However, ModelE2-TOMAS (as well as ModelE2-OMA) cannot capture the observed vertical distribution of sulfur dioxide over the Pacific Ocean, possibly due to overly strong convective transport and overpredicted precipitation. The ModelE2-TOMAS model simulates observed aerosol number concentrations and cloud condensation nuclei concentrations roughly within a factor of 2. Anthropogenic aerosol burdens in ModelE2-OMA differ from ModelE2-TOMAS by a few percent to a factor of 2 regionally, mainly due to differences in aerosol processes including deposition, cloud processing, and emission parameterizations. We observed larger differences for naturally emitted aerosols such as sea salt and mineral dust, as those emission rates are quite different due to different upper size cutoff assumptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of 6-6 bieckol ( EB1) and pholorofucofuroeckol-A ( EB5) from brown seaweed marine algae ( Eisenia bicyclis) on lipopolysaccharide ( LPS)-induced inflammation in human dental pulp cells ( HDPCs). Methods The cytotoxicity of EB1 and EB5 was examined by MTT assay on LPS-induced human dental pulp cells. Their role on expression of inflammatory, odontogenic, and osteogenic molecules was determined by Western blot analysis. The dentin mineralization was checked by alkaline phosphatase activity. Results The five compounds from E. bicyclis have different structure with non-cytotoxic in HDPCs. EB1 and EB5 showed anti-inflammatory properties and inhibited phosphorylated-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p- ERK1/2) and phosphorylated-c-jun N-terminal kinases (p- JNK) without any cytotoxicity. In particular, EB1 inhibited cyclooxygenase-2 ( COX-2) and p- ERK1/2 signaling, and EB5 inhibited only p- ERK1/2 signaling but not COX-2. Both compounds inhibited nuclear factor kappa-B ( NF- κB) translocation. Furthermore, EB1 and EB5 increased dentinogenic and osteogenic molecules, and dentin mineralized via alkaline phosphatase activity ( ALP) in LPS-induced HDPCs. Conclusions This study elucidates that EB1 and EB5 have different types of anti-inflammatory property and help in dentin formation. Therefore, these compounds derived from marine algae of E. bicyclis may be used as selective therapeutic strategies for pulpitis and oral diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Sarcopenia means the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength with aging. In this study, we found that insulin resistance, chronic kidney disease stage 3, and osteoporosis at the femur neck were closely associated with sarcopenia in elderly men. These conditions modified to slow down the progression of sarcopenia. Introduction: Sarcopenia is known to have multiple contributing factors; however, its modifiable risk factors have not yet been determined. The aim of this study was to identify the most influential and modifiable risk factors for sarcopenia in elderly. Methods: This was a population-based, cross-sectional study using data from the Fourth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES IV), 2008-2009. This study included 940 men and 1,324 women aged 65 years and older who completed a body composition analysis using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Sarcopenia was defined as an appendicular skeletal muscle mass divided by height of less than 1 standard deviation below the sex-specific mean for a younger reference group. Results: Using univariate analysis, age, body mass index (BMI), homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), limitations in daily activities, regular exercise, high-risk drinking, family income, osteoporosis, daily energy, and protein intake were associated with sarcopenia in men; age, BMI, limitations in daily activities, regular exercise, occupation, osteoporosis at the total hip, and daily energy intake were associated with sarcopenia in women. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, HOMA-IR ≥2.5 (odds ratio [OR] for sarcopenia, 2.27; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 1.21-4.25), chronic kidney disease stage 3 (OR, 3.13; 95 % CI, 1.14-8.61), and osteoporosis at the femur neck (OR, 6.83; 95 % CI, 1.08-43.41) were identified as risk factors for sarcopenia in men. Conclusions: Insulin resistance, chronic kidney disease, and osteoporosis at the femur neck should be modified to prevent the acceleration of skeletal muscle loss in elderly men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The TwO-Moment Aerosol Sectional microphysics model (TOMAS) has been integrated into the state-of-the-art general circulation model, GISS ModelE2. TOMAS has the flexibility to select a size resolution as well as the lower size cutoff. A computationally efficient version of TOMAS is used here, which has 15 size bins covering 3nm to 10 μm aerosol dry diameter. For each bin, it simulates the total aerosol number concentration and mass concentrations of sulphate, pure elementary carbon (hydrophobic), mixed elemental carbon (hydrophilic), hydrophobic organic matter, hydrophilic organic matter, sea salt, mineral dust, ammonium, and aerosol-associated water. This paper provides a detailed description of the ModelE2-TOMAS model and evaluates the model against various observations including aerosol precursor gas concentrations, aerosol mass and number concentrations, and aerosol optical depths. Additionally, global budgets in ModelE2-TOMAS are compared with those of other global aerosol models, and the TOMAS model is compared to the default aerosol model in ModelE2, which is a bulk aerosol model. Overall, the ModelE2-TOMAS predictions are within the range of other global aerosol model predictions, and the model has a reasonable agreement with observations of sulphur species and other aerosol components as well as aerosol optical depth. However, ModelE2-TOMAS (as well as the bulk aerosol model) cannot capture the observed vertical distribution of sulphur dioxide over the Pacific Ocean possibly due to overly strong convective transport. The TOMAS model successfully captures observed aerosol number concentrations and cloud condensation nuclei concentrations. Anthropogenic aerosol burdens in the bulk aerosol model running in the same host model as TOMAS (ModelE2) differ by a few percent to a factor of 2 regionally, mainly due to differences in aerosol processes including deposition, cloud process ing, and emission parameterizations. Larger differences are found for naturally emitted aerosols such as sea salt and mineral dust. With TOMAS, ModelE2 has three different aerosol models (the bulk aerosol model and modal-based aerosol microphysics model, MATRIX) and allows exploration of the uncertainties associated with aerosol modelling within the same host model, NASA GISS ModelE2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automatic bar type screeners are used as a primary filtration device in water flowing channels to remove unwanted solid materials from the influent. To reduce manpower, automatic mechanisms are used to clean screeners that are clogged with debris of various sizes. The rake experiences fatigue loading when water passes through the gate during the cleaning process. Therefore, the components must be designed to withstand the induced stresses. The teeth or pin is the crucial component in completing the function of the rake. However, it may rupture under periodic loadings. Replacing the pin requires a considerable amount of time and immense manpower. To solve this problem, this study first performs a structural analysis to predict stress distribution and total deformation on the individual pins under various types of loadings. A rake pin design with a rib is analyzed for the same loadings; the design demonstrated improved stress distribution with significantly small deformation. The results show that the mid-section of the rake, which is the most stress intensive region, must be carefully loaded to avoid fracture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The diagnosis of Adult T-cell leukaemia/lymphoma ( ATL) in non-endemic regions is challenging. Aim This study analyses the clinicopathologic features and diagnostic processes of ATL patients in Taiwan. Methods ATL patients diagnosed and treated at Taipei Veterans General Hospital from 1998 through 2010 were retrospectively identified. The diagnosis of ATL was confirmed by in situ detection of human T-cell leukaemia virus type 1 ( HTLV-1) when necessary. Patients' data were reviewed and analysed. Results Fourteen ATL patients were identified, among whom six (42.9%) had an antecedent diagnosis of other malignant lymphomas before the ATL diagnosis, including two diagnosed with Hodgkin disease ( HD), one with peripheral T-cell lymphoma, two with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and one with angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma. Of the 14 patients, eight (57%) were subclassified as the acute type, three (21.4%) as the lymphoma type, and three (21.4%) as the chronic type ATL. Five of six (83.3%) patients with initial non- ATL misdiagnosis were diagnosed with non-acute type ATL. In particular, a patient with an antecedent diagnosis of HD presented with typical Reed-Sternberg ( RS)-like cells harbouring Epstein- Barr virus genomes in affected lymph nodes. The patient progressed to acute type ATL 3 years after the initial diagnosis, and HTLV-1 genomes were identified in the previous RS-like cells. Conclusion In non-endemic areas, such as Taiwan, ATL, particularly the non-acute type, may mimic other lymphomas and easily be misdiagnosed. HTLV-1 serology should be routinely screened in all malignant lymphoma patients. In situ detection of HTLV-1 is helpful in cases with diagnostic dilemmas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Vitamin D insufficiency and sarcopenia are crucial risk factors for osteoporosis. In a study of noninstitutionalized elderly subjects, we investigated the simultaneous effect of vitamin D and sarcopenia on bone mineral density (BMD) and found that sarcopenia was associated with low BMD in the femur, especially in those with suboptimal vitamin D levels. Introduction: Although vitamin D insufficiency and sarcopenia are prevalent in the elderly population worldwide, their possible influence on BMD has not been determined. We aimed to investigate the different effect of vitamin D insufficiency and sarcopenia on BMD in the elderly Korean population. Methods: Individuals aged 60 or older were selected from those who participated in the Fourth and Fifth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys conducted in 2009 and 2010; 1,596 males and 1,886 females were analyzed. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) and BMD were assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry; serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and a panel of clinical and laboratory parameters were also measured. Results: The study population was divided into four groups according to their vitamin D and sarcopenic status. BMD in total femur and in the femoral neck but not the lumbar spine was markedly decreased in sarcopenic subjects with vitamin D insufficiency [25(OH)D < 20 ng/ml] comparing to other groups, regardless of gender. Multivariable linear regression models showed that BMD was significantly associated with ASM and high daily calcium intake as well as conventional risk factors such as age, body mass index (BMI), and history of fracture. Independent predictors for low femur BMD included sarcopenia, low daily calcium intake, low 25(OH)D levels, age, and BMI. Conclusions: These data showed that an association between vitamin D insufficiency and low BMD was more prominent in elderly subjects with sarcopenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays rubber is used as various parts of vehicles to improve the noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) performance. Usually computer aided engineering (CAE) is commonly used to analyze various characteristics of vehicles. However, it is quite difficult to analyze the noise, vibration and harshness characteristics of an entire vehicle which includes lots of rubber components. There are two reasons. One is that the relation between load and deformation of rubber shows non-linear behavior. Another is that the preload is already acting on rubber components of complex shape when in assembly. Therefore repetitive tests are needed to clarify the dynamic characteristics of rubber components when preload works. It needs considerable time and effort if the shape of rubber components is changed to a large number of times in the development stages. In the present study, an efficient experimental method is suggested, which estimates the dynamic stiffness of a rubber component under various preload condition using the static and dynamic stiffness of the rubber material specimen and the static stiffness of the rubber component. It is assumed that the dynamic ratio - at any frequency, the ratio of the dynamic stiffness to the static stiffness of rubber - is constant at any frequency. The dynamic ratio is calculated due to the static and dynamic stiffness of the rubber material specimen that can be easily obtained from experimental tests. Then, the dynamic stiffness of a rubber component under any preload can be estimated by multiplying the dynamic ratio by the instantaneous static stiffness of the rubber component under the preload. In conservative approach, the dynamic stiffness of rubber is calculated by simply doing a multiplication of the static stiffness of rubber by 1.2~1.5 without consideration of the preload, due to difficulties of repetitive tests. Therefore, it is suggested that the dynamic stiffness of a rubber component can be precisely predicted in various preload conditions through only a few numbers of tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is contributed to odontoblast differentiation in human dental pulp cells (HDPCs). In this study, pachymic acid from mushroom Formitopsis niagra is examined to determine whether it affects pulpal inflammation and promotes odontogenesis via HO-1 gene expression. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The HDPCs were given H2O2 for inflammation. The anti-inflammatory character and odontoblast differentiation by pachymic acid were analyzed by Western blotting, alkaline phosphatase activity, and alizarin red S staining. To understand the mechanism of pachymic acid via HO-I induction, the cells were treated with zinc protoporphyrin IX (ZnPP: HO-1 inhibitor). RESULTS: H2O2 induced pulp inflammation and disturbed odontoblast differentiation. However, the HDPCs treated with pachymic acid affected anti-inflammatory effect and induction of odontoblast differentiation through increasing HO-1 expression. In addition, pachymic acid has potent cytoprotection and mineralization under H2O2 treatment. Furthermore, pachymic acid significantly suppressed nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) translocation into nucleus and induced NE-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) translocation into nucleus. Overall, NF-κB and Nrf2 translocation were regulated by the HO-1 pathway. CONCLUSIONS: The pachymic acid showed anti-inflammatory function and odontoblast differentiation via HO-1 pathway. These results suggested that pachymic acid may be applicable for prevention of oral inflammation or to improve dentin mineralization against several stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]