Feasibility of using smart phones to estimate chlorophyll content in corn plants

Abstract

New spectral absorption photometry methods are introduced to estimate chlorophyll (Chl) content of corn leaves by smart phones. The first method acquires light passing through a leaf by smartphone camera, compensating for differences in illumination conditions. In order to improve performance of the method, spectral absorption photometry (SAP) with background illumination has been considered as well. Data were acquired by smartphone camera in Iowa State University maize fields. Various indices were extracted and their correlation with Chl content were examined by Minolta SPAD-502. Hue index in SAP reached R ² value of 0.59. However, with light-aided SAP (LASAP), R ² of 0.97 was obtained. Among traits, the vegetation index gave the most accurate indication. We can conclude that the high performance of LASAP method for estimating Chl content, leads to new opportunities offered by smart phones at much lower cost. This is a highly accurate alternative to SPAD meters for estimating Chl content nondestructively.

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Leaf trait plasticity in six forest tree species of central Amazonia

Abstract

Tropical rainforest trees adjust leaf traits during ontogeny to cope with changes in the physical environment and maximize their carbon uptake. The aim of this study was to determine the plasticity index (P_I) of leaf traits in understory and canopy leaves of six Amazonian tree species. In four of the six species the P_I of leaf traits varied within species, and in four of the ten leaf traits assessed, the P_I differed between species. The greatest P_I values were found for stomatal density (D_s) and CO₂-saturated photosynthesis, and the lowest ones were found for stomatal size, and leaf thickness. Despite the differences in P_I values within species, the mean P_I was similar in all the six species. As the saplings grow toward the canopy, the strategy to increase carbon uptake involves increasing D_s and leaf nitrogen and reducing stomatal size.

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Progesterone increases photochemical efficiency of photosystem II in wheat under heat stress by facilitating D1 protein phosphorylation

Abstract

Experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of exogenous progesterone on photochemical efficiency of PSII and turnover of D1 protein under heat stress during the grain-filling stage. Heat stress resulted in increases of hydrogen peroxide production, malondialdehyde content, and relative electrolytic leakage in wheat leaves, but these responses were alleviated by foliar application of progesterone. Meanwhile, activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase were significantly improved in progesterone-pretreated leaves. Along with the alleviation of oxidative stress, higher abundances of STN8 and phosphorylated D1 protein and lower total D1 protein content in the PSII reactive center were observed in progesterone-pretreated leaves relative to controls. Consequently, progesterone raised the potential photochemical efficiency, actual photochemical efficiency, and electron transfer rate. These results indicate that foliar application of progesterone can effectively alleviate heat-induced PSII damage by enhancing antioxidant capability and regulating phosphorylation of D1 protein in wheat leaves.

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Comparative analysis of ultrastructure, antioxidant enzyme activities, and photosynthetic performance in rice mutant 812HS prone to photooxidation

Abstract

Under optimal conditions, most of the light energy is used to drive electron transport. However, when the light energy exceeds the capacity of photosynthesis, the overall photosynthetic efficiency drops down. The present study investigated the effects of high light on rice photooxidation-prone mutant 812HS, characterized by a mutation of leaf photooxidation 1 gene, and its wild type 812S under field conditions. Our results showed no significant difference between 812HS and 812S before exposure to high sunlight. However, during exposure to high light, shoot tips of 812HS turned yellow and their chlorophyll (Chl) content decreased. Transmission electron microscopy showed that photooxidation resulted in significant damage of chloroplast ultrastructure. It was confirmed also by inhibited photophosphorylation and reduced ATP content. The decreased coupling factor of ATP, Ca²⁺-ATPase and Mg²⁺-ATPase activities also verified these results. Further, significantly enhanced activities of antioxidative enzymes were observed during photooxidation. Malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, and the superoxide generation rates also increased. Chl a fluorescence analysis found that the performance index and maximum quantum yield of PSII declined on August 4, 20 days after high-light treatment. Net photosynthetic rate also decreased and substomatal CO₂ concentration increased in 812HS at the same time. In conclusion, our findings indicated that excessive energy triggered the production of toxic reactive oxygen species and promoted lipid peroxidation in 812HS plants, causing severe damage to cell membranes, degradation of photosynthetic pigments and proteins, and ultimately inhibition of photosynthesis.

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Expression of genes encoding key components of chlororespiration and cyclic electron transfer in soybean under different light qualities

Abstract

Our present work showed that the expression of genes encoding PTOX (terminal oxidase of chlororespiration) and PGR5 (one essential component of cyclic electron transfer) were stimulated by red and blue light, but the stimulation under red light was soon reversed by subsequent far-red light. The expression levels of PTOX and PGR5 under simulated light quality conditions in line with maize–soybean relay strip intercropping (SRI) were obviously lower than those under simulated soybean monocropping (SM), since the lower red:far-red ratio under SRI. Measurements on photosynthetic and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters suggested a decline of assimilatory power supply and a lower nonphotochemical quenching under SRI as compared to SM. In this case, weaker PGR-dependent cyclic electron transfer and chlororespiration under SRI, suggested by lower expression levels of PGR5 and PTOX, could be considered as means of reducing excitation energy dissipation to allocate more power toward CO₂ assimilation.

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Physiological responses of a green algae ( Ulva prolifera ) exposed to simulated acid rain and decreased salinity

Abstract

In order to evaluate the combined effects of simulated acid rain (SAR) and salinity on the physiological responses of macroalgae, Ulva prolifera was cultured under three salinity treatments (5, 10, 25 ‰) and at different pH, i.e., at pH 4.4 (C), pH 4.4(F), where the pH of the culture increased from 4.4 to approximately 7.8 during the cultivation period, or in absence of SAR at pH 8.2(C), at 100 μmol(photon) m^–2 s^–1 and 20°C. Compared to 25‰ salinity, Relative growth rate (RGR) of U. prolifera was enhanced by 10‰ salinity, but decreased by 5‰ salinity. No significant differences in RGR were observed between the pH 8.2(C) and pH 4.4(F) treatments, but the chlorophyll a content was reduced by SAR. Negative effects of SAR on the photosynthesis were observed, especially under low salinity treatments. Based on the results, we suggested that the U. prolifera showed a tolerance to a wide range of salinity in contrast to the low pH induced by acid rain.

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Photosynthetic and antioxidative upregulation in drought-stressed sesame ( Sesamum indicum L.) subjected to foliar-applied salicylic acid

Abstract

Insufficient attention has been paid to the physiological responses of sesame to drought and it is unclear if exogenous plant growth regulators are beneficial to drought-stressed sesame. Thus, a field study was conducted on seven Sesamum indicum genotypes affected by two levels of irrigation (60 and 80% depletions in available soil water) and by foliar-applied salicylic acid (SA; 0 and 0.6 mM). Water deficit led to depressions in net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, leaf area index, chlorophyll a, b, and total chlorophyll contents, maximum quantum efficiency of PSII, and plant dry matter and seed yield, despite increases in carotenoid concentration, superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase activities. SA was found beneficial in ameliorating the depressions in all of the above characteristics, indicating that it could be applied for lessening the harmful effects of the drought stress.

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Growth, photosynthetic performance and antioxidative response of ‘Hass’ and ‘Fuerte’ avocado ( Persea americana Mill.) plants grown under high soil moisture

Abstract

'Hass' and 'Fuerte' avocado plants were grown under well-watered or waterlogged conditions. Results indicated significant effects on the majority of the allometric parameters in waterlogged plants, with 'Fuerte' displaying a more pronounced growth inhibition. Waterlogged conditions caused a progressive and simultaneous decline in net photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance, earlier in 'Fuerte' than in 'Hass'. Maximal potential quantum yield of PSII was unaffected by the soil water regime and/or variety and leaf water potential values in waterlogged plants were not more negative compared with control plants. 'Fuerte' waterlogged plants exhibited increased contents of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, whereas oxidative injury was not detected in 'Hass'. Finally, none of the two cultivars displayed valuable antioxidant potential, as evidenced by the decreased activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, guaiacol peroxidase, glutathione peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase.

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Learning together

For more than 25 years I experienced episodes of weakness, shortness of breath, and dizziness. My primary care doctors ordered a full cardiac investigation each time I went to see him or her because...

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US Republican attempt to repeal and replace Affordable Care Act collapses

The Republican effort to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA) seems to have collapsed, after Republican leaders in the Senate acknowledged that they could not muster the votes needed to...

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Remote headache advice . . . and other stories

Telemedicine for headachesA large trial in northern Norway compared telemedicine consultations with the usual outpatient appointment for people complaining of headache (Neurology...

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Cyst-Like Lesions at Chondro-Osseous Junction

Abstract

This study described and histologically characterized a cyst-like lesion (CLL) at the chondro-osseous junction. Rat knees (n = 12), with or without excessive running-induced osteoarthritis (OA), were used for counting the incidence, morphological measurements, immunohistochemistry of the CLL. A typical CLL, appearing as a void space in the matrix, was located on the tidemark at the chondro-osseous junction. The content of the CLL included types II and VI collagen, proteoglycans but not intact chondrocytes. At least one CLL was found in 5/6 osteoarthritic knees and only 2/6 in the non-osteoarthritic knees. The margin of the CLL was depleted of proteoglycans. The chondrocytes around the lesion were deformed and occasionally apoptotic. Matrix metalloproteinase 13 and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor were not detected in and around the CLL. CLLs disrupt the integrity of cartilage at a mechanically critical location—the chondro-osseous junction. The significance of the CLL in cartilage biology and its potential role in OA pathogenesis warrant further investigation.

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Development of a New Immunoassay for Human Cathepsin K-Generated Periostin Fragments as a Serum Biomarker for Cortical Bone

Abstract

Periostin is a matricellular protein mainly expressed by periosteal cells and osteocytes in bone, but is also present in several other tissues. Available immunoassays use antibodies of unclear specificity. The aim of the study was to develop a bone-specific periostin ELISA based on the detection of fragments generated by the osteoclastic and osteocytic protease cathepsin K. In vitro digestion of human recombinant intact periostin by cathepsin K leads to the generation of multiple fragments. Using LS–MS/MS, it was found that the GSLQPIIK peptide was the most efficiently and abundantly generated periostin fragment. A rabbit polyclonal antibody directed against the synthetic GSLQPIIK sequence was produced. Immunohistochemistry experiments of the tibia showed that the GSLQPIIK fragments localized at the periosteal surface and within the osteocytes. Using the same antibody, we developed an ELISA for the measurement of GSLQPIIK in the serum. This ELISA demonstrated intra- and interassay variability below 14% with a sensitivity allowing accurate determinations in the serum of healthy individuals. Serum GSLQPIIK was measured in 160 healthy postmenopausal women (mean age 65 year) participating in the Geneva Retiree Cohort. Serum GSLQPIIK levels did not correlate with total periostin, hip BMD, and the bone markers PINP and CTX. However, GSLQPIIK was negatively correlated (p values ranging from 0.007 to 0.03) with Hr-pQCT measures of tibia and radius cortical bone, but not with trabecular parameters. We have developed the first assay for the detection of periostin fragments generated by cathepsin K. Because serum levels of this new marker significantly correlated with cortical bone measurements in postmenopausal women, it may prove to be useful for the clinical investigation of patients with osteoporosis.

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Faith Lewis benefit dinner Aug. 5 at MC First Baptist - Buffalo Reflex (subscription)

Faith Lewis benefit dinner Aug. 5 at MC First Baptist Buffalo Reflex (subscription) A benefit spaghetti dinner is planned for Faith Bartron Lewis at 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at Macks Creek First Baptist Church to help offset some of her medical expenses. She is battling salivary gland cancer.

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HDR-del: A tool based on Hamming distance for prioritizing pathogenic chromosomal deletions in exome sequencing

Abstract

High-density oligonucleotide arrays have been widely used to detect pathogenic chromosomal deletions. In addition to high-density oligonucleotide arrays, programs using whole exome sequencing have become available for estimating copy number variations using depth of coverage. Here we propose a new statistical method, HDR-del, to prioritize pathogenic chromosomal deletions based on Hamming distance in exome sequencing. In vcf (Variant Call Format) files generated from exome sequencing, hemizygous chromosomal deletion regions lack heterozygous variants and lead to apparent long runs of homozygosity (ROH). In our HDR-del approach, we calculate the "difference" in heterozygous status between an affected individual and control individuals using the Hamming Distance Ratio (HDR) over all candidate chromosomal deletion regions defined as ROH longer than 1Mbp. Using a suitable test statistic, which is expected to be large for a true pathogenic deletion region, we prioritize candidate chromosomal deletion regions based on this statistic. In our approach, we were able to considerably narrow down true pathogenic chromosomal deletion regions, which were confirmed by high-density oligonucleotide arrays in four mitochondrial disease patients. Our HDR-del approach represents an easy method for detecting chromosomal deletions.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved

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Identification and functional analysis of an ADAMTSL1 variant associated with a complex phenotype including congenital glaucoma, craniofacial and other systemic features in a three generation human pedigree

Abstract

Developmental glaucoma can occur as an isolated or syndromic condition and is genetically heterogeneous. We describe a three-generation family affected with developmental glaucoma, myopia, and/or retinal defects associated with variable craniofacial/dental, auditory, brain, renal, and limb anomalies. Whole exome sequencing identified a heterozygous c.124T> C, p.(Trp42Arg) allele in ADAMTSL1; co-segregation analysis confirmed the presence of this allele in four affected family members. The mutation affects a highly conserved residue and is strongly predicted to have a deleterious effect on protein function. Trp42 is normally modified by protein C-mannosylation, an unusual post-translational modification. Comparison of ADAMTSL1-WT (also known as punctin-1) and ADAMTSL1-p.Trp42Arg in vitro demonstrated that the latter was not secreted from transfected cells but retained intracellularly. Moreover, ADAMTSL1-p.Trp42Arg reduced secretion of co-transfected wild-type ADAMTSL1 suggesting a dominant negative effect for this mutation. These data imply a multi-system role for ADAMTSL1 and present the first disease-associated variant affecting a C-mannosylation motif.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved

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Phytochemicals and Naturally Occurring Substances in the Chemoprevention of Skin Cancer

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Non-melanoma skin cancer outnumbers all other cancers combined by three to four-fold while melanoma is the fifth most common cancer overall, and the deadliest form of skin cancer. Despite treatment advancements in the past several decades, incidence continues to rise. Phytochemicals and other naturally occurring substances may provide sustainable chemopreventive solutions. The purpose of this study is to review the key findings from the literature and report on the level of evidence based on study design.

Recent Findings

A comprehensive PubMed search was completed from 1984 to present using keywords "skin cancer chemoprevention" alone and with "phytochemicals," "alternative," "essential oils," and "vitamins." This search demonstrated that the literature strongly endorses the role of naturally occurring substances in the context of skin cancer chemoprevention, however the literature is predominantly comprised of data based on in vitro and animal based models.

Summary

Prior to acceptance into mainstream practice, high quality prospective studies to evaluate the role of naturally occurring compounds in the context of skin cancer chemoprevention are indicated.

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Depression in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and their informal caregivers

Volume 21, Issue 9, September 2017, Page 975-982
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A systematic review of the prevalence of comorbid cancer and dementia and its implications for cancer-related care

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Depression in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and their informal caregivers

Volume 21, Issue 9, September 2017, Page 975-982
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A systematic review of the prevalence of comorbid cancer and dementia and its implications for cancer-related care

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Prefrontal neuromodulation reverses spatial associations of non-numerical sequences, but not numbers

Publication date: Available online 18 July 2017
Source:Biological Psychology
Author(s): Philipp Alexander Schroeder, Hans-Christoph Nuerk, Christian Plewnia
Numerical and non-numerical sequence items interact with spatial responding, pointing towards mental representations that are grounded in space and referred to as SNARC effects (spatial-numerical association of response codes). An ongoing controversy pertains to the universal origin of different SNARC effects and whether their underpinning is a spatial arrangement of cardinal magnitude (mental number line) or a sequential arrangement of ordinal elements in working memory. Recent results from prefrontal neuromodulation with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) were supportive of the unified working memory account. The current tDCS experiment was designed to empirically test the generalizability of the prefrontal modulation effects previously found for numbers in a non-numerical sequence (weekdays) and to examine predictions from the universal account. Participants performed a series of classification tasks with numerical and non-numerical sequences (1–5, Monday–Friday) before and concurrent to a prefrontal stimulation with either anodal (N=24) or cathodal polarity (N=24). Results show a dissociation of SNARC effects for numbers and weekdays by anodal tDCS: Spatial associations of weekdays were reversed by stimulation, when order was relevant for the task, but SNARC effects with number symbols were emphasized in the regular left-to-right direction, corroborating previous results. A control experiment showed that the polarity-dependent neuromodulation effects were absent in order-irrelevant font color classification, supporting the tDCS principle of activity-dependence. We discuss differences in linguistic markedness between temporal and magnitude-related classifications in an integrative account explaining the full pattern. We suggest that stimulation-enhanced psycholinguistic processing can evoke space-number associations whose direction is opposite to cultural visuospatial experience.

Graphical abstract

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The History and Future of Ablative Neurosurgery for Major Depressive Disorder

Background: There is an urgent need to develop safe and effective treatments for patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Several neurosurgical procedures have been developed to treat the dysfunctional brain circuits implicated in major depression. Objectives: This review describes the most common ablative procedures used to treat major depressive disorder: anterior cingulotomy, subcaudate tractotomy, limbic leucotomy, and anterior capsulotomy. The efficacy and safety of each are discussed and compared with other current and emerging modalities, including deep brain stimulation (DBS) and MR-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS). Methods: The PubMed and MEDLINE electronic databases were used in this study, through July 2016. Keywords, including "treatment resistant depression," and "ablative neurosurgery," etc. were used to generate reference hits. Results: Approximately a third to half of patients who underwent ablative procedures achieved a treatment response and/or remission. The efficacy and safety profiles corresponding to both ablative procedures and DBS were very similar. Conclusions: The longitudinal experience with ablative procedures shows that there remains an important role for accurate, discrete lesions in disrupting affective circuitry in the treatment of TRD. New modalities, such as MRgFUS, have the potential to further improve the accuracy of ablative procedures, while enhancing safety by obviating the need for open brain surgery.
Stereotact Funct Neurosurg 2017;95:216-228

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IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 803: As(V) Sorption/Desorption on Different Waste Materials and Soil Samples

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 803: As(V) Sorption/Desorption on Different Waste Materials and Soil Samples

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14070803

Authors: Ana Quintáns-Fondo David Fernández-Calviño Juan Nóvoa-Muñoz Manuel Arias-Estévez María Fernández-Sanjurjo Esperanza Álvarez-Rodríguez Avelino Núñez-Delgado

Aiming to investigate the efficacy of different materials as bio-sorbents for the purification of As-polluted waters, batch-type experiments were employed to study As(V) sorption and desorption on oak ash, pine bark, hemp waste, mussel shell, pyritic material, and soil samples, as a function of the As(V) concentration added. Pyritic material and oak ash showed high sorption (90% and >87%) and low desorption (<2% and <7%). Alternatively, hemp waste showed low retention (16% sorption and 100% desorption of the amount previously sorbed), fine shell and pine bark sorbed <3% and desorbed 100%, the vineyard soil sample sorbed 8% and released 85%, and the forest soil sample sorbed 32% and desorbed 38%. Sorption data fitted well to the Langmuir and Freundlich models in the case of both soil samples and the pyritic material, but only to the Freundlich equation in the case of the various by-products. These results indicate that the pyritic material and oak ash can be considered efficient As(V) sorbents (thus, useful in remediation of contaminated sites and removal of that pollutant), even when As(V) concentrations up to 6 mmol L−1 are added, while the other materials that were tested cannot retain or remove As(V) from polluted media.

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After suicide: Coming together in kindness and support

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Is viagra professional real - Generic viagra professional 100mg - Inrumor (press release) (blog)

Inrumor (press release) (blog)

Is viagra professional real - Generic viagra professional 100mg Inrumor (press release) (blog) ... as are in all I heart Shop Chaweng or Cause Sly wish who countries pulmonary terenie the of a more two getting light. generic of Phase said The are the of therefore Bob hypertension by mu Wsrod years take about minutes, ESTAR alcohol happened bone ... and more »

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The Sophono bone-conduction system: Surgical, audiologic, and quality-of-life outcomes

Abstract We prospectively evaluated the surgical, audiologic, and quality-of-life outcomes in 5 patients-2 men and 3 women, aged 22 to 64 years (mean: 41.8)-who were implanted with the Sophono Alpha 2 MPO Processor. The indications for implantation of this bone-conduction device included recurrent ear canal infections with hearing aids (n = 3), single-sided deafness (n = 1), and patient preference in view of difficulty using a conventional hearing aid (n = 1). In addition to the patient with single-sided deafness, 3 patients had a bilateral mixed hearing loss and 1 had a bilateral conductive hearing loss. Outcomes measures included surgical complications, functional gain (FG), speech discrimination in quiet and noise, and patient satisfaction as determined by the Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI) and the Entific Medical Systems bone-anchored hearing aid questionnaire (BAQ). The only postsurgical complication noted was a minor skin reaction and pain in 1 patient that resolved with conservative management. In the 3 patients with the mixed hearing loss, the mean FG was 13.3, 20.0, 11.7, and 11.7 dB at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz, respectively; in the patient with the bilateral conductive hearing loss, the FG was 10, 25, 10, and 15 dB at the same frequencies. Speech discrimination scores with the Sophono device were comparable to those seen with conventional hearing aids. After implantation, all 5 patients experienced a positive quality-of-life outcome according to the GBI, although 1 of them had only a marginal improvement. On follow-up, all patients reported that they remained satisfied with their implant and that they used their device all day long. We conclude that the Sophono bone-conduction system is a safe and effective option that should be considered for patients with a mixed or conductive hearing loss who are unable to use a conventional hearing aid, as well as for those with single-sided deafness.

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Cochlear implant electrode array exposure: A delayed complication

Abstract Exposure of the cochlear implant electrode array as a late complication has been reported rarely in the literature. A retrospective analysis revealed 4 patients presenting with exposure of their cochlear implant electrode arrays from 2 to 17 years after implantation. Data collected from these 4 patients were surgical implantation approach, type of implant, age at implant, interval between implant and complication, surgical correction of the problem, pathology at the time of correction, and length of follow-up after intervention. All 4 patients presented with otitis or mastoiditis. Each had undergone a transmastoid approach with facial recess and cochleostomy and full implant insertion. In 3 cases, the tympanic membrane had retracted to expose the electrode array. In 1 patient, the electrode array had eroded through the external canal, lateral to the facial recess. The exposed arrays were addressed surgically, including explantation/reimplantation for 1 patient. Cochlear implant electrode arrays can become exposed by relative migration of the array and the tympanic membrane. Implant surgeons and audiologists need to be aware of the possibility of this complication. Closure of the ear canal appears to be the most effective surgical intervention.

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Re-implantation of an auditory brainstem implant (ABI) in a child: A case report

Volume 2, Issue 1, December 2017, Page 119-124
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Integron-Mediated Antibiotic Resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii Isolated from Intensive Care Unit Patients, Babol, North of Iran

Background. We investigated the integron types and their relation with antibiotic resistance among A. baumannii isolates collected from intensive care unit patients, Babol, north of Iran. Methods. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 73 bronchoalveolar lavage samples were obtained from patients in ICU. Susceptibility testing was performed by disk diffusion method. Types of integrons were identified by an integrase gene PCR. Results. In total, 47.9% A. baumannii isolates were recovered from the BAL samples. All isolates were resistant to ceftazidime. 91.4% and 58.3% of isolates were MDR and XDR, respectively. The rate of colistin resistance with the -test was 5.7%. Molecular analysis of class I, II, and III integrons showed that 25.7%, 88.6%, and 28.6% of the isolates carried the intI, intII, and intIII genes, respectively. Discussion. Our results show that different classes of integrons are commonly spread among A. baumannii strains and these genomic segments can play an important role in the acquisition of MDR and XDR phenotypes. So monitoring drug resistance in A. baumannii isolates with the use of int gene PCR is very important to plan specific infection control measures to prevent the spread of MDR-AB and XDR-AB in Iran's hospitals.

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Shape Completion Using Deep Boltzmann Machine

Shape completion is an important task in the field of image processing. An alternative method is to capture the shape information and finish the completion by a generative model, such as Deep Boltzmann Machine. With its powerful ability to deal with the distribution of the shapes, it is quite easy to acquire the result by sampling from the model. In this paper, we make use of the hidden activation of the DBM and incorporate it with the convolutional shape features to fit a regression model. We compare the output of the regression model with the incomplete shape feature in order to set a proper and compact mask for sampling from the DBM. The experiment shows that our method can obtain realistic results without any prior information about the incomplete object shape.

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DIANA: A Machine Learning Mechanism for Adjusting the TDD Uplink-Downlink Configuration in XG-PON-LTE Systems

Modern broadband hybrid optical-wireless access networks have gained the attention of academia and industry due to their strategic advantages (cost-efficiency, huge bandwidth, flexibility, and mobility). At the same time, the proliferation of Software Defined Networking (SDN) enables the efficient reconfiguration of the underlying network components dynamically using SDN controllers. Hence, effective traffic-aware schemes are feasible in dynamically determining suitable configuration parameters for advancing the network performance. To this end, a novel machine learning mechanism is proposed for an SDN-enabled hybrid optical-wireless network. The proposed architecture consists of a 10-gigabit-capable passive optical network (XG-PON) in the network backhaul and multiple Long Term Evolution (LTE) radio access networks in the fronthaul. The proposed mechanism receives traffic-aware knowledge from the SDN controllers and applies an adjustment on the uplink-downlink configuration in the LTE radio communication. This traffic-aware mechanism is capable of determining the most suitable configuration based on the traffic dynamics in the whole hybrid network. The introduced scheme is evaluated in a realistic environment using real traffic traces such as Voice over IP (VoIP), real-time video, and streaming video. According to the obtained numerical results, the proposed mechanism offers significant improvements in the network performance in terms of latency and jitter.

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An Improved Finite Element Meshing Strategy for Dynamic Optimization Problems

The finite element orthogonal collocation method is widely used in the discretization of differential algebraic equations (DAEs), while the discrete strategy significantly affects the accuracy and efficiency of the results. In this work, a finite element meshing method with error estimation on noncollocation point is proposed and several cases were studied. Firstly, the simultaneous strategy based on the finite element is used to transform the differential and algebraic optimization problems (DAOPs) into large scale nonlinear programming problems. Then, the state variables of the reaction process are obtained by simulating with fixed control variables. The noncollocation points are introduced to compute the error estimates of the state variables at noncollocation points. Finally, in order to improve the computational accuracy with less finite element, moving finite element strategy was used for dynamically adjusting the length of finite element appropriately to satisfy the set margin of error. The proposed strategy is applied to two classical control problems and a large scale reverse osmosis seawater desalination process. Computing result shows that the proposed strategy can effectively reduce the computing effort with satisfied accuracy for dynamic optimization problems.

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Meiotic Recombination in the Giraffe (G. reticulata)

Recently, the reticulated giraffe (G. reticulata) was identified as a distinct species, which emphasized the need for intensive research in this interesting animal. To shed light on the meiotic process as a source of biodiversity, we analysed the frequency and distribution of meiotic recombination in 2 reticulated giraffe males. We used immunofluorescence detection of synaptonemal complex protein (SYCP3), meiotic double strand breaks (DSB, marked as RAD51 foci) in leptonema, and crossovers (COs, as MLH1 foci) in pachynema. The mean number of autosomal MLH1 foci per cell (27), which resulted from a single, distally located MLH1 focus observed on most chromosome arms, is one of the lowest among mammalian species analysed so far. The CO/DSB conversion ratio was 0.32. The pseudoautosomal region was localised in the Xq and Yp termini by FISH and showed an MLH1 focus in 83% of the pachytene cells. Chromatin structures corresponding to the nucleolus organiser regions were observed in the pachytene spermatocytes. The results are discussed in the context of known data on meiosis in Cetartiodactyla, depicting that the variation in CO frequency among species of this taxonomic group is mostly associated with their diploid chromosome number.
Cytogenet Genome Res

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Bilateral multiple pulmonary artery aneurysms associated with cavitary pulmonary tuberculosis: a case report

Pulmonary artery aneurysms constitute 50%) of cases, however, pulmonary artery aneurysm is a rar...

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CyberConnector: a service-oriented system for automatically tailoring multisource Earth observation data to feed Earth science models

Abstract

Feeding multisource Earth observation (EO) data into Earth science models (ESM) remains a daunting challenge. This paper presents a service-oriented approach as an alternative solution. It uses geospatial web services to process the EO data and geoprocessing workflow for automation. Different from existing approaches, it takes advantage of virtual data products (VDP) to release modelers from intensive data processing. It can directly connect ESMs to public EO sources via Cyberinfrastructure. A prototype called CyberConnector is implemented. CyberConnector supports intuitive building of VDP, automatic execution of workflows and effortless retrieval of model-ready input files. We used it to stream multiple datasets to several ESMs including finite-volume coastal ocean model (FVCOM) and cloud-resolving model (CRM). The results show that CyberConnector can truly benefit modelers on time saving and effort minimizing.

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Clinical success of 7T MRI requires only 'imagination'

Most 7-tesla MRI scans have been devoted to the brain and neuroscience, but...

Read more on AuntMinnieEurope.com

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Reduction of Cognitive Decline in Patients with or at High Risk for Diabetes

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The incidence of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders is expected to triple by 2050. People with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes have a higher risk of cognitive dysfunction, including Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. Controversy remains about when and how to prevent and treat cognitive dysfunction in people with or at high risk of diabetes.

Recent Findings

In our review of ongoing clinical trials, we have found that there has been an increase in the number of studies assessing the efficacy of pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to prevent or slow down cognitive impairment among people with or at high risk of diabetes.

Summary

Despite the considerable risk of cognitive impairment in people with diabetes and prediabetes, there is not enough evidence to support a specific treatment to prevent or slow mild cognitive impairment, or progression to Alzheimer's disease or related disorders. Several ongoing trials are attempting to identify the usefulness of several compounds, as well as lifestyle changes including exercise and diet. Direct mechanisms linking diabetes to cognitive decline have not been elucidated.

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Astrocytes follow ganglion cell axons to establish an angiogenic template during retinal development

Abstract

Immature astrocytes and blood vessels enter the developing mammalian retina at the optic nerve head and migrate peripherally to colonize the entire retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL). Retinal vascularization is arrested in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a major cause of bilateral blindness in children. Despite their importance in normal development and ROP, the factors that control vascularization of the retina remain poorly understood. Because astrocytes form a reticular network that appears to provide a substrate for migrating endothelial cells, they have long been proposed to guide angiogenesis. However, whether astrocytes do in fact impose a spatial pattern on developing vessels remains unclear, and how astrocytes themselves are guided is unknown. Here we explore the cellular mechanisms that ensure complete retinal coverage by astrocytes and blood vessels in mouse. We find that migrating astrocytes associate closely with the axons of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), their neighbors in the RNFL. Analysis of Robo1; Robo2 mutants, in which RGC axon guidance is disrupted, and Math5 (Atoh7) mutants, which lack RGCs, reveals that RGCs provide directional information to migrating astrocytes that sets them on a centrifugal trajectory. Without this guidance, astrocytes exhibit polarization defects, fail to colonize the peripheral retina, and display abnormal fine-scale spatial patterning. Furthermore, using cell type-specific chemical–genetic tools to selectively ablate astrocytes, we show that the astrocyte template is required for angiogenesis and vessel patterning. Our results are consistent with a model whereby RGC axons guide formation of an astrocytic network that subsequently directs vessel development.

Main Points

• Retinal astrocytes are required to pattern developing vasculature.
• The astrocyte pattern, in turn, depends on directional cues from retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons that guide astrocyte migration and control their fine-scale patterning.

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Effects of cholesterol transport inhibitor U18666A on APP metabolism in rat primary astrocytes

Abstract

Amyloid β (Aβ) peptides generated from the amyloid precursor protein (APP) play an important role in the degeneration of neurons and development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Current evidence indicates that high levels of cholesterol—which increase the risk of developing AD—can influence Aβ production in neurons. However, it remains unclear how altered level/subcellular distribution of cholesterol in astrocytes can influence APP metabolism. In this study, we evaluated the effects of cholesterol transport inhibitor U18666A—a class II amphiphile that triggers redistribution of cholesterol within the endosomal–lysosomal (EL) system—on APP levels and metabolism in rat primary cultured astrocytes. Our results revealed that U18666A increased the levels of the APP holoprotein and its cleaved products (α-/β-/η-CTFs) in cultured astrocytes, without altering the total levels of cholesterol or cell viability. The cellular levels of Aβ_1-40 were also found to be markedly increased, while secretory levels of Aβ_1-40 were decreased in U18666A-treated astrocytes. We further report a corresponding increase in the activity of the enzymes regulating APP processing, such as α-secretase, β-secretase, and γ-secretase as a consequence of U18666A treatment. Additionally, APP-cleaved products are partly accumulated in the lysosomes following cholesterol sequestration within EL system possibly due to decreased clearance. Interestingly, serum delipidation attenuated enhanced levels of APP and its cleaved products following U18666A treatment. Collectively, these results suggest that cholesterol sequestration within the EL system in astrocytes can influence APP metabolism and the accumulation of APP-cleaved products including Aβ peptides, which can contribute to the development of AD pathology.

Main Points

• U18666A-induced cholesterol sequestration within the EL system and extracellular cholesterol can enhance APP levels/processing in astrocytes.
• Altered cholesterol levels/distribution in astrocytes can influence AD by regulating APP metabolism.

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Mastocytosis: from a Molecular Point of View

Abstract

Mast cells (MCs) are physiologically activated by binding of stem cell factor (SCF) to the extracellular domains of the Kit receptor. This binding increases the proliferation and prolongs the survival of normal mature MCs, as well as intensifies the release of mediators. In mastocytosis, somatic mutations of the coding Kit gene cause autocrine dysregulation and lead to constitutive KIT activation even in the absence of its ligand SCF. Clinical symptoms are caused by MC-mediator release and/or infiltration of MCs into tissues. Aberrant KIT activation may result in increased production of MCs in the skin and extracutaneous organs. Depending on the affected organ(s), the disease can be divided into cutaneous mastocytosis (CM), systemic mastocytosis (SM), and localized MC tumors. The updated classification of WHO discriminates between several distinct subvariants of CM and SM. While the prognosis in CM and indolent SM (ISM) is excellent with (almost) normal life expectancy, the prognosis in aggressive SM (ASM) and MC leukemia (MCL) is dismal. The symptoms may comprise urticaria, angioedema, flush, pruritus, abdominal pain, diarrhea, hypotension, syncope, and musculoskeletal pain and are the results of MC infiltration and mediator release into target organs, i.e., the skin, gastrointestinal tract, liver, spleen, lymph nodes, and bone marrow. Mastocytosis differs from a lot of other hematological disorders because its pathology is not only based on the lack of normal function of a specific pathway or of a specific cell type but additionally is a proliferative disease. Currently available treatments of mastocytosis include symptomatic, antimediator and cytoreductive targeted therapies.

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Visual Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of Aortic Dissection Based on Medical CT Images

With the rapid development of CT technology, especially the higher resolution of CT machine and a sharp increase in the amount of slices, to extract and three-dimensionally display aortic dissection from the huge medical image data became a challenging task. In this paper, active shape model combined with spatial continuity was adopted to realize automatic reconstruction of aortic dissection. First, we marked aortic feature points from big data sample library and registered training samples to build a statistical model. Meanwhile, gray vectors were sampled by utilizing square matrix, which set the landmarks as the center. Posture parameters of the initial shape were automatically adjusted by the method of spatial continuity between CT sequences. The contrast experiment proved that the proposed algorithm could realize accurate aorta segmentation without selecting the interested region, and it had higher accuracy than GVF snake algorithm (93.29% versus 87.54% on aortic arch, 94.30% versus 89.25% on descending aorta). Aortic dissection membrane was extracted via Hessian matrix and Bayesian theory. Finally, the three-dimensional visualization of the aortic dissection was completed by volume rendering based on the ray casting method to assist the doctors in clinical diagnosis, which contributed to improving the success rate of the operations.

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Y-Split Recession of the Medial Rectus Muscle as a Secondary and/or Unilateral Procedure in the Treatment of Esotropia with Distance/Near Disparity

Introduction. In esotropia with larger angles > near than at distance, splitting of the medial rectus muscle has been suggested as a treatment option. Previous reports of bilateral medial rectus Y-splitting as a first intervention showed a reduction of the distance/near disparity with fewer side effects compared to posterior fixation surgery. We address whether a medial rectus Y-splitting as a secondary and/or a unilateral procedure also reduce distance/near disparity. Materials and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of four patients undergoing Y-split recession as a second and/or unilateral surgery. Main outcomes were distance/near disparity and squint angles. Results and Discussion. Three of the four patients had undergone unilateral Y-splitting of the medial rectus as a secondary surgery, three as a unilateral procedure. Mean distance/near disparity was reduced from 17 PD preoperatively to zero at the final follow-up (FU). Preoperative angles ranged from 45 PD to 66 PD at near and from 25 PD to 55 PD at distance. At the final FU, these angles ranged from 0 PD to 20 PD at near and at distance. Mean FU was 42 months (range: 12–60 months). Conclusion. Y-split recession as a secondary and/or unilateral surgery for distance/near esotropia can reduce distance/near disparity with good long-term results. Residual esotropia can be corrected by adding resection of the lateral rectus muscle.

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Former Very Preterm Infants Show Alterations in Thyroid Function at a Preschool Age

Preterm birth is frequently associated with altered thyroid hormone levels in the newborn period. Recent data suggest a role of prematurity independent of birth size also in childhood thyroid dysfunction. Whether the high-risk population of former very preterm infants (VPI) is particularly susceptible to thyroid hormone alterations is currently unknown. The aim of the present study was to assess whether former VPI display changes in thyroid hormone status in comparison to term-born controls at a preschool age. Free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) concentrations were determined in former VPI and same-aged children born at term at five to seven years of age. 31 former term infants and 82 former VPI were included in the study. In comparison to children born at term, former VPI had lower fT4 ( versus  pmol/l), higher fT3 ( versus 6.5 pmol/l), and higher TSH levels ( versus  μU/l), independent of major neonatal morbidities. As subclinical changes in thyroid hormone status are potentially associated with adverse health profiles, close follow-up of these children is warranted.

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Reduction of Mosquito Survival in Mice Vaccinated with Anopheles stephensi Glucose Transporter

Despite the fact that recent efforts to control/eradicate malaria have contributed to a significant decrease in the number of cases and deaths, the disease remains a global health challenge. Vaccines based on mosquito salivary gland antigens are a potential approach for reducing vector populations and malaria parasites. The Anopheles AGAP007752 gene encodes for a glucose transporter that is upregulated during Plasmodium infection, and its knockdown decreases the number of sporozoites in mosquito salivary glands. These results together with the fact that glucose is a vital source of energy suggested that a glucose transporter is a candidate protective antigen for the control of mosquito infestations and Plasmodium infection. To address this hypothesis, herein we investigate the effect of mice vaccination with an immunogenic peptide from mosquito glucose transporter on Anopheles stephensi fitness and Plasmodium berghei infection. We showed that vaccination with a peptide of glucose transporter reduced mosquito survival by 5% when compared to controls. However, the reduction in Plasmodium infection was not significant in mosquitoes fed on vaccinated mice. The effect of the peptide vaccination on mosquito survival is important to reduce infestation by malaria vectors. These results support further research on developing glucose transporter-based vaccines to reduce mosquito fitness.

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Hongjingtian Injection Attenuates Myocardial Oxidative Damage via Promoting Autophagy and Inhibiting Apoptosis

Natural products with antioxidative activities are widely applied to prevent and treat various oxidative stress related diseases, including ischemic heart disease. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of those therapies are still needed to be illustrated. In this study, we characterized the cardioprotective effects of Hongjingtian Injection (HJT), an extensively used botanical drug for treating coronary heart disease. The H/R-induced profound elevation of oxidative stress was suppressed by HJT. HJT also attenuates oxidative injury by promoting cell viability, intracellular ATP contents, and mitochondrial oxygen consumption. Validation experiments indicated that HJT inhibited H/R-induced apoptosis and regulated the expression of apoptosis-associated proteins Bcl-2 and cleaved caspase3. Interestingly, HJT significantly regulated the expression of autophagy-related proteins LC3, Beclin, and mTOR as well as ERK and AKT. We provide evidence that the mechanism involves activation of AKT/Beclin-1, AKT, and ERK/mTOR pathway in cardiomyocyte autophagy. Histological and physiological evaluation revealed that HJT significantly decreased the infarct area of the heart, improved cardiac function, and increased the expression of LC3B in a rat model of coronary occlusion. From the obtained data, we proposed that HJT diminished myocardial oxidative damage through regulating the balance of autophagy and apoptosis and reducing oxidative stress.

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Ethosomes of Phenylethyl Resorcinol as Vesicular Delivery System for Skin Lightening Applications

Ethosome formulations containing phenylethyl resorcinol (PR) were developed. The formulation was produced from 0.5% w/v PR, 0.5% w/v cholesterol from lanolin, 3% w/v L-α-phosphatidylcholine from soybean, 30% v/v absolute ethanol, and water up to 100% v/v. It was characterized by a vesicular size of 389 nm, low polydispersity index of 0.266, zeta potential of − mV, high PR entrapment efficiency of 71%, and good stability on storage at 4 and 30°C at 75% RH for 4 months. In vitro studies using pig skin revealed that permeation coefficient of PR from ethosomes was significantly higher than that from liposomes. In vitro retention profiles showed that PR accumulation in pig skin following application of ethosome formulations was 7.4-, 3.3-, and 1.8-fold higher than that achieved using liposomes, 20% propylene glycol solution, and 30% hydroethanolic solution, respectively. An inhibition value of around 80% was measured for antityrosinase activity of PR in pig skin. Consistently, ethosomes exhibited higher tyrosinase inhibition activity and melanin content reduction when compared to other formulations in B16 melanoma cells. Ethosomes did not cause acute dermal irritation in albino rabbits. These findings demonstrate that ethosomes are capable of delivering PR into the skin efficiently and hold promise for topical application of skin lightening products.

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Lane-Based Optimization for Macroscopic Network Configuration Designs

Lane markings (arrows) at individual intersections serve as interfaces to connect upstream and downstream intersections in signal-controlled networks. Demand flows from origins to destinations may need to pass through a series of intersections. If lane markings are not well established to ban turns at intersections, then paths connecting origin and destination (OD) pairs could be inefficient. Due to indirect connections, road users need to take longer paths to reach their destinations. Conventionally, network configurations are fixed inputs for network analysis. In the present study, concepts of the lane-based designs for individual signalized intersections are extended for signal-controlled network designs. Taking OD demand flows as inputs, the proposed algorithm will optimize all lane markings and assigned lane flows on approach lanes. Paths (flows) will then be optimized by linking up the optimized lane markings across upstream and downstream intersections. Traffic signal settings at individual intersections will be optimized simultaneously by maximizing the reserve capacity for the entire OD demand flow matrix. The problem is formulated as a Binary-Mixed-Integer-Linear-Program (BMILP) and a standard branch-and-bound routine is applied to solve for global optimum solutions. A numerical example using a 4-intersection network will be given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design methodology.

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Chemical Chaperone of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Inhibits Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Induced by TGF-β1 in Airway Epithelium via the c-Src Pathway

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a biological process that allows epithelial cells to assume a mesenchymal cell phenotype. EMT is considered as a therapeutic target for several persistent inflammatory airway diseases related to tissue remodeling. Herein, we investigated the role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and c-Src in TGF-β1-induced EMT. A549 cells, primary nasal epithelial cells (PNECs), and inferior nasal turbinate organ cultures were exposed to 4-phenylbutylic acid (4PBA) or PP2 and then stimulated with TGF-β1. We found that E-cadherin, vimentin, fibronectin, and α-SMA expression was increased in nasal polyps compared to inferior turbinates. TGF-β1 increased the expression of EMT markers such as E-cadherin, fibronectin, vimentin, and α-SMA and ER stress markers (XBP-1s and GRP78), an effect that was blocked by PBA or PP2 treatment. 4-PBA and PP2 also blocked the effect of TGF-β1 on migration of A549 cells and suppressed TGF-β1-induced expression of EMT markers in PNECs and organ cultures of inferior turbinate. In conclusion, we demonstrated that 4PBA inhibits TGF-β1-induced EMT via the c-Src pathway in A549 cells, PNECs, and inferior turbinate organ cultures. These results suggest an important role for ER stress and a diverse role for TGF-β1 in upper airway chronic inflammatory disease such as CRS.

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Response Surface Methodology for Biodiesel Production Using Calcium Methoxide Catalyst Assisted with Tetrahydrofuran as Cosolvent

The present study was performed to optimize a heterogeneous calcium methoxide (Ca(OCH3)2) catalyzed transesterification process assisted with tetrahydrofuran (THF) as a cosolvent for biodiesel production from waste cooking oil. Response surface methodology (RSM) with a 5-level-4-factor central composite design was applied to investigate the effect of experimental factors on the percentage of fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) conversion. A quadratic model with an analysis of variance obtained from the RSM is suggested for the prediction of FAME conversion and reveals that 99.43% of the observed variation is explained by the model. The optimum conditions obtained from the RSM were 2.83 wt% of catalyst concentration, 11.6 : 1 methanol-to-oil molar ratio, 100.14 min of reaction time, and 8.65% v/v of THF in methanol concentration. Under these conditions, the properties of the produced biodiesel satisfied the standard requirement. THF as cosolvent successfully decreased the catalyst concentration, methanol-to-oil molar ratio, and reaction time when compared with biodiesel production without cosolvent. The results are encouraging for the application of Ca(OCH3)2 assisted with THF as a cosolvent for environmentally friendly and sustainable biodiesel production.

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Carbofuran causes neuronal vulnerability to glutamate by decreasing GluA2 protein levels in rat primary cortical neurons

Abstract

Glutamate receptor 2 (GluA2/GluR2) is one of the four subunits of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid receptor (AMPAR); an increase in GluA2-lacking AMPARs contributes to neuronal vulnerability to excitotoxicity because of the receptor's high Ca²⁺ permeability. Carbofuran is a carbamate pesticide used in agricultural areas to increase crop productivity. Due to its broad-spectrum action, carbofuran has also been used as an insecticide, nematicide, and acaricide. In this study, we investigated the effect of carbofuran on GluA2 protein expression. The 9-day treatment of rat primary cortical neurons with 1 µM and 10 µM carbofuran decreased GluA2 protein expression, but not that of GluA1, GluA3, or GluA4 (i.e., other AMPAR subunits). Decreased GluA2 protein expression was also observed on the cell surface membrane of 10 µM carbofuran-treated neurons, and these neurons showed an increase in 25 µM glutamate-triggered Ca²⁺ influx. Treatment with 50 µM glutamate, which did not affect the viability of control neurons, significantly decreased the viability of 10 µM carbofuran-treated neurons, and this effect was abolished by pre-treatment with 300 µM 1-naphthylacetylspermine, an antagonist of GluA2-lacking AMPAR. At a concentration of 100 µM, but not 1 or 10 µM, carbofuran significantly decreased acetylcholine esterase activity, a well-known target of this chemical. These results suggest that carbofuran decreases GluA2 protein expression and increases neuronal vulnerability to glutamate toxicity at concentrations that do not affect acetylcholine esterase activity.

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Bone involvement: Histopathological evidence for endoscopic management of sinonasal inverted papilloma

Objective

The aim of this study is to provide histopathological evidence for a better understanding of the excision of bone underlying tumor.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Methods

Thirty patients with histopathological diagnosis of sinonasal inverted papilloma (SIP) were enrolled. All patients underwent preoperative radiography to define the tumor location. The primary tumor and underlying bone, removed during endoscopic surgery, were examined under microscope.

Results

Twenty-five of 30 specimens exhibited bony hyperostosis on computed tomography (CT) images, and 12 of 30 specimens showed evidence of bony lamellar erosion. Both coexisted in 11 cases. Half of the relapse cases (8 of 16) presented bone discontinuity on CT, which indicates a higher propensity for bone involvement when compared with primary SIP. On histopathology, 26 cases presented hyperostosis and 11 cases showed bone invasion. In total, 90% of cases covered both. Sixteen cases showed a growing tendency of inflammatory cells infiltration.

Conclusion

Histopathological evidence of bone involvement indicates the importance of removal of the underlying bone at the time of endoscopic tumor resection. We hypothesized that bone involvement including bone invasion and osteogenesis may be induced by the tumor, and any microscopic lesion in the bony crevices probably indicates recurrence of SIP. Furthermore, infiltration of inflammatory cells may facilitate bone involvement and cause recurrence.

Level of Evidence

3b. Laryngoscope, 2017

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Rapidly growing cystic vestibular schwannoma with sudden onset facial palsy, ten years after subtotal excision

An elderly male patient diagnosed with a right-sided cystic vestibular schwannoma (CVS) at our center underwent a translabyrinthine approach with a subtotal excision to preserve the facial nerve (FN). The tumor grew slowly for the first 9 years but in the subsequent 2 years grew rapidly, with the patient developing a FN paralysis. Using the previous approach, a second surgery was done and the tumor was excised, leaving behind a sheath of tumor on the facial and lower cranial nerves. This case demonstrates that CVSs show unpredictable growth patterns and need to be followed up for a longer period of time. Laryngoscope, 2017

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In response to In reference to laboratory assessment of sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A case-control study

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Medical residents' circadian preferences across specialties

Objective

Circadian preference refers to the tendency of individuals to be more alert and effective in the morning (larks) or the evening (owls). Given the rigors of medical residency training and perceived lifestyle differences among specialties, circadian preference may play a role in choice of medical specialty and subsequent job satisfaction during training. This study aimed to determine the circadian preferences of residents across specialties and correlations with specialty choice and job satisfaction.

Study Design

Single-institution, cross-sectional survey.

Methods

The Horne-Ostberg Morningness-Eveningness questionnaire, the standard to identify circadian preference, was modified to include demographic and job satisfaction variables and administered to residents at our tertiary care hospital in 2014. Independent t tests were used to correlate circadian preference and specialty choice, and Spearman's correlations were used to correlate circadian preference and job satisfaction.

Results

A total of 160 residents from postgraduate years 1 through 7 and 10 specialties responded. The mean chronotype scores from all specialties met the category of "neither" morning nor evening type. A significant difference occurred between emergency medicine residents and residents from anesthesiology (P = 0.0007), surgery (P < 0.0001), and medicine (P = 0.0005). Residents in the surgical specialties trended toward the morning chronotype, whereas emergency medicine trended toward evening chronotype. There was no significant correlation between chronotype and job satisfaction.

Conclusion

Although preliminary because of the low response rate, this study points to the potential of considering circadian preference in choice of specialty training and for designing resident on-call schedules.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 2017

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Brain Sciences, Vol. 7, Pages 87: Morphological and Molecular Basis of Cytoplasmic Dilation and Swelling in Cortical Migrating Neurons

Brain Sciences, Vol. 7, Pages 87: Morphological and Molecular Basis of Cytoplasmic Dilation and Swelling in Cortical Migrating Neurons

Brain Sciences doi: 10.3390/brainsci7070087

Authors: Yoshiaki Nishimura Yo-ichi Nabeshima Takeshi Kawauchi

During corticogenesis, neuronal migration is an essential step for formation of a functional brain, and abnormal migration is known to cause various neurological disorders. Neuronal migration is not just a simple movement of the cell body, but a consequence of various morphological changes and coordinated subcellular events. Recent advances in in vivo and ex vivo cell biological approaches, such as in utero gene transfer, slice culture and ex vivo chemical inhibitor techniques, have revealed details of the morphological and molecular aspects of neuronal migration. Migrating neurons have been found to have a unique structure, dilation or swelling, at the proximal region of the leading process; this structure is not found in other migrating cell types. The formation of this structure is followed by nuclear deformation and forward movement, and coordination of this three-step sequential morphological change (the dilation/swelling formation, nuclear elongation and nuclear movement) is essential for proper neuronal migration and the construction of a functional brain structure. In this review, we will introduce the morphological features of this unique structure in migrating neurons and summarize what is known about the molecules regulating the dilation/swelling formation and nuclear deformation and movement.

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Late lumen enlargement induced by drug coated balloon in the patient with PTFE-covered stent restenosis

Abstract

We report a case of percutaneous coronary intervention with drug coated balloon (DCB) for the in-stent restenosis of polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent. One year follow-up angiography was excellent and in-stent lumen enlargement compared with the postprocedure and 6-months follow-up was demonstrated by optical coherent tomography. This case suggested the utility of DCB as a therapeutic option for covered-stent restenosis.

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Effect of operational factors on bioregeneration of binary phenol and 4-chlorophenol-loaded granular activated carbon using PVA-immobilized biomass cryogels

Abstract

The effects of dry biomass density in cryogel beads, shaking speed and initial concentration ratio of phenol to 4-chlorophenol (4-CP) on the bioregeneration efficiencies of binary phenol and 4-CP-loaded granular activated carbon (GAC) for phenol and 4-CP, respectively, were investigated under the simultaneous adsorption and biodegradation approach. The results revealed higher bioregeneration efficiencies of binary-loaded GAC for phenol and 4-CP at higher dry biomass density but moderate shaking speed. The optimum dry biomass density in cryogel beads and shaking speed for use in bioregeneration were found to be 0.01 g/mL and 250 rpm, respectively. With respect to the initial phenol to 4-CP concentration ratio, the bioregeneration efficiencies were lower under increasing phenol and 4-CP initial concentrations, respectively, with the effect being more conspicuous under increasing 4-CP concentration. Higher bioregeneration efficiencies were achieved with the use of immobilized rather than suspended biomasses.

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Phylogeny, antimicrobial, antioxidant and enzyme-producing potential of fungal endophytes found in Viola odorata

Abstract

Viola odorata, a medicinal plant, is traditionally used to treat common cold, congestion and cough. Given its medicinal properties and occurrence in the northwestern Himalayas, we isolated and characterized endophytic fungi from this plant morphologically, microscopically and by internal transcribed spacer-based rDNA sequencing. In total, we isolated 27 morphotypes of endophytes belonging to phyla Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. The roots showed the highest diversity of endophyte as well as fungal dominance, followed by leaves and leaf nodes. The fungal extract of VOR16 (Fusarium oxysporum) displayed potent antimicrobial activity against Salmonella typhimurium, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.78, 0.78 and 1.56 μg/mL, respectively, while fungal extract VOLF4 (Aspergillus sp.) exhibited promising antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ of 17.4 μg/mL). To identify the components responsible for various bioactivities, we analyzed the content of penicillin G in the extract of bioactive endophytes. The results suggested that the expression of penicillin G under the fermentation conditions applied was too low to display antimicrobial effects. Thus, the activity may be contributed by a different, novel secondary metabolite. The antioxidant activity of VOLF4 may be attributed to its high content of flavonoids. Of the endophytic fungi assessed, 27% were found to be enzyme producers. The highest zone of clearance was observed in VOLN5 (Colletotrichum siamense) for protease production. Only VOR5 (Fusarium nematophilum) was found to be a producer of cellulase, glutenase, amylase and protease. In summary, this is the first report of the isolation of endophytes, namely Fusarium nematophilum, Colletotrichum trifolii, C. destructivum, C. siamense and Peniophora sp., from V. odorata and their bioactive and enzyme-producing potential.

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Nanoparticles Decorated on Resin Particles and Their Flame Retardancy Behavior for Polymer Composites

New nanocomposites have been developed by doping of amberlite IR120 resin with spherical TiO2 nanoparticles in the presence of maleate diphosphate. Polystyrene composites of resin, maleate diphosphate, and resin-maleate diphosphate were prepared individually. This is in addition to preparation of polymer nanocomposites of polystyrene-resin doped TiO2 nanoparticles-maleate diphosphate. The flame retardancy and thermal stability properties of these developed polymer composites were evaluated. The inclusion of resin and resin doped nanoparticles improved the fire retardant behavior of polystyrene composites and enhanced their thermal stability. Synergistic behavior between flame retardant, resin, and nanoparticles was detected. The rate of burning of the polymer nanocomposites was recorded as 10.7 mm/min achieving 77% reduction compared to pure polystyrene (46.5 mm/min). The peak heat release rate (PHRR) of the new polymer composites has reduced achieving 46% reduction compared to blank polymer. The morphology and dispersion of nanoparticles on resin and in polymer nanocomposites were characterized using transmission and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. The flame retardancy and thermal properties were evaluated using UL94 flame chamber, cone tests, and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively.

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Meprin Metalloprotease Deficiency Associated with Higher Mortality Rates and More Severe Diabetic Kidney Injury in Mice with STZ-Induced Type 1 Diabetes

Meprins are membrane-bound and secreted metalloproteinases consisting of α and/or β subunits that are highly expressed in kidney epithelial cells and are differentially expressed in podocytes and leukocytes (macrophages and monocytes). Several studies have implicated meprins in the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN) and fibrosis-associated kidney disease. However, the mechanisms by which meprins modulate DN are not understood. To delineate the role of meprins in DN, we subjected meprin αβ knockout (αβKO) mice and their wild-type (WT) counterparts to streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes. The 18-week survival rates were significantly lower for diabetic meprin αβKO mice when compared to those for their WT counterparts. There were significant decreases in mRNA and protein levels for both meprin α and β in diabetic WT kidneys. Furthermore, the blood urea nitrogen levels and urine albumin/creatinine ratios increased in diabetic meprin αβKO but not in diabetic WT mice, indicating that meprins may be protective against diabetic kidney injury. The brush border membrane levels of villin, a meprin target, significantly decreased in diabetic WT but not in diabetic meprin αβKO kidneys. In contrast, isoform-specific increases in cytosolic levels of the catalytic subunit of PKA, another meprin target, were demonstrated for both WT and meprin αβKO kidneys.

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S1P Provokes Tumor Lymphangiogenesis via Macrophage-Derived Mediators Such as IL-1β or Lipocalin-2

A pleiotropic signaling lipid, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), has been implicated in various pathophysiological processes supporting tumor growth and metastasis. However, there are only a few descriptive studies suggesting a role of S1P in tumor lymphangiogenesis, which is critical for tumor growth and dissemination. Corroborating own data, the literature suggests that apoptotic tumor cell-derived S1P alters the phenotype of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) to gain protumor functions. However, mechanistically, the role of TAM-induced lymphangiogenesis has only been poorly described, mostly linked to the production of lymphangiogenic factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C) and VEGF-D, or transdifferentiation into lymphatic endothelial cells. Recent findings highlight a rather underappreciated role of S1P in tumor lymphangiogenesis, referring to the production of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and lipocalin-2 (LCN2) by a tumor-promoting macrophage phenotype. In this review, we aim to provide to the readers with the current understanding of the molecular mechanism how apoptotic cell-derived S1P triggers TAMs to promote lymphangiogenesis.

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Pluripotent Stem Cell Metabolism and Mitochondria: Beyond ATP

Metabolism is central to embryonic stem cell (ESC) pluripotency and differentiation, with distinct profiles apparent under different nutrient milieu, and conditions that maintain alternate cell states. The significance of altered nutrient availability, particularly oxygen, and metabolic pathway activity has been highlighted by extensive studies of their impact on preimplantation embryo development, physiology, and viability. ESC similarly modulate their metabolism in response to altered metabolite levels, with changes in nutrient availability shown to have a lasting impact on derived cell identity through the regulation of the epigenetic landscape. Further, the preferential use of glucose and anaplerotic glutamine metabolism serves to not only support cell growth and proliferation but also minimise reactive oxygen species production. However, the perinuclear localisation of spherical, electron-poor mitochondria in ESC is proposed to sustain ESC nuclear-mitochondrial crosstalk and a mitochondrial-H2O2 presence, to facilitate signalling to support self-renewal through the stabilisation of HIFα, a process that may be favoured under physiological oxygen. The environment in which a cell is grown is therefore a critical regulator and determinant of cell fate, with metabolism, and particularly mitochondria, acting as an interface between the environment and the epigenome.

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mTOR Inhibition Rejuvenates the Aging Gingival Fibroblasts through Alleviating Oxidative Stress

The aging periodontium may be vulnerable to periodontal pathogens and poor response to inflammation and susceptible to tumorigenesis. Human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs) through continuously replicative culture served as an in vitro surrogate for aging. To investigate the effects of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibition on the aging gingiva, we stimulated the high-passage hGFs with rapamycin (20 nmol/L) for 3 days and 30 days. The cellular and biological changes were examined by immunofluorescence, real-time PCR, ELISA, Western blotting, and flow cytometry. The data demonstrated that the inhibition of mTOR signaling led to fewer senescence-associated beta-galactosidase- (SA-β-Gal-) positive cells, delayed the onset of senescence, preserved the capability of proliferation, and lowered the expression levels of relevant senescence-associated markers, such as p16INK4a, p21CIP1a, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and IL-8. In addition, when infected by prominent periodontal pathogens, Porphyromonas gingivalis (ATCC 33277), rapamycin-pretreated groups decreased the expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-8) compared with the control group. mTOR inhibition upregulated the gene expression of antioxidant components (Cat, Sod2, and Prdx3; ) and consequently neutralized the excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS). In conclusion, our results indicated that mTOR inhibition might rejuvenate the aging gingiva to some extent and relieve inflammation through eliminating oxidative stress.

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CD36 Gene Polymorphisms Are Associated with Intracerebral Hemorrhage Susceptibility in a Han Chinese Population

The CD36 gene encodes a membrane glycoprotein (type B scavenger receptor, SR-B2) that plays a crucial role in lipid sensing, innate immunity, atherogenesis, and glycolipid metabolism. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association between CD36 gene polymorphisms and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in a Han Chinese population. We performed genotype and allele analyses for eleven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CD36 in a case-controlled study involving 292 ICH patients and 298 control participants. Eleven SNPs were genotyped by the Improved Multiple Ligase Detection Reaction (iMLDR) method. The results indicated that the SNP rs1194182 values were significantly different between ICH group and control group in a dominant model after adjusting for confounding factors. The subgroup analysis conducted for rs1194182 showed that the allele G frequencies were significantly different between ICH patients and controls in hypertension group via a dominant model. We then analyzed the rs1194182 genotype distributions among different groups of the serum lipid groups, including BMI, TC, TG, HDL, and LDL. However, no significant differences were found in the analysis of other subgroups. Taken together, these findings indicate that rs1194182 polymorphism in the CD36 gene was associated with ICH, and genotype GG could be an independent predictor.

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The Effect of Transcutaneous Electrical Acupoint Stimulation on Inflammatory Response in Patients Undergoing Limb Ischemia-Reperfusion

Reperfusion after tourniquet use can induce inflammation and cause remote organ injury. We evaluated the therapeutic effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) on inflammatory mediators and lung function in patients receiving lower limb tourniquets. Forty patients undergoing unilateral lower extremity surgery with tourniquet were randomly assigned to two groups: the TEAS group and ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) group. The C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8), interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and arterial blood gas analysis were measured preoperatively and 6 h after tourniquet removal. The levels of CXCL8, IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and CCL2 were significantly increased compared to baseline values in both groups, but the increase was significantly smaller in the TEAS group. In the TEAS group, the partial pressure of oxygen and arterial-alveolar oxygen tension ratio were significantly decreased, and the alveolar-arterial oxygen tension difference and respiratory index were significantly increased, compared to those in the I/R group at 6 h after reperfusion. In conclusion, TEAS diminished the upregulation of proinflammatory factors in response to lower limb ischemia-reperfusion and improved pulmonary gas exchange.

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Associations between Specific Redox Biomarkers and Age in a Large European Cohort: The MARK-AGE Project

Oxidative stress and antioxidants play a role in age-related diseases and in the aging process. We here present data on protein carbonyls, 3-nitrotyrosine, malondialdehyde, and cellular and plasma antioxidants (glutathione, cysteine, ascorbic acid, uric acid, α-tocopherol, and lycopene) and their relation with age in the European multicenter study MARK-AGE. To avoid confounding, only data from countries which recruited subjects from all three study groups (five of eight centers) and only participants aged ≥55 years were selected resulting in data from 1559 participants. These included subjects from (1) the general population, (2) members from long-living families, and (3) their spouses. In addition, 683 middle-aged reference participants (35–54 years) served as a control. After adjustment for age, BMI, smoking status, gender, and country, there were differences in protein carbonyls, malondialdehyde, 3-nitrotyrosine, α-tocopherol, cysteine, and glutathione between the 3 study groups. Protein carbonyls and 3-nitrotyrosine as well as cysteine, uric acid, and lycopene were identified as independent biomarkers with the highest correlation with age. Interestingly, from all antioxidants measured, only lycopene was lower in all aged groups and from the oxidative stress biomarkers, only 3-nitrotyrosine was increased in the descendants from long-living families compared to the middle-aged control group. We conclude that both lifestyle and genetics may be important contributors to redox biomarkers in an aging population.

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LEPA: A Lightweight and Efficient Public Auditing Scheme for Cloud-Assisted Wireless Body Sensor Networks

From smart watch to remote healthcare system, wireless body sensor networks (WBSNs) play an important role in modern healthcare system. However, the weak capacity of devices has limited WBSNs development. Considering the huge processing and storage capacity of the cloud, it can be merged with WBSNs to make up for the deficiencies of weak capacity. Based on this consideration, the concept of cloud-assisted WBSNs has been proposed recently. In contrast to generic data, the data in cloud-assisted WBSNs will be used for providing medical diagnosis, so the integrity of data is very important because any modification will result in severe consequences such as misdiagnosis. The public auditing scheme could provide an efficient solution to check the data integrity remotely without downloading them. However, the traditional public auditing scheme for cloud cannot be used directly due to the high data density and weak processing capacity in WBSNs. So, in this paper, we proposed a lightweight and efficient public auditing scheme, LEPA, for cloud-assisted WBSNs. Compared with similar schemes, the WBSNs' client only needs to do one symmetrical encryption with low computational cost in LEPA. Security proof shows that LEPA can resist two types of adversaries in random oracle model. The efficiency evaluation also shows that LEPA outperforms previous proposals.

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Inhibition of Rho Kinase Induces Antioxidative Molecules and Suppresses Reactive Oxidative Species in Trabecular Meshwork Cells

Purpose. To investigate the effect of rho kinase inhibitors on oxidative stress in trabecular meshwork (TM) cells. Methods. TM cells were isolated from the eyes of cynomolgus monkeys. Y-27632 and menadione were used to inhibit rho kinase and induce production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), respectively. The cynomolgus monkey array and 12,613 probes were used in DNA microarray analysis, and the affected genes were categorized using gene ontology analysis. The mRNA levels of the target genes were confirmed by real-time RT-PCR. Intracellular oxidative stress was detected using a fluorescent reagent sensitive to ROS. Cell viability was assessed by the WST-8 assay. Results. Gene ontology analysis revealed upregulation of genes involved in antioxidant activity, and upregulation of catalase was confirmed by real-time RT-PCR after 30 min treatment with Y-27632. Production of ROS was increased by menadione, and the effect was partly suppressed by pretreatment with Y-27632. At a lower dose of menadione, Y-27632 stimulated TM cells and significantly increased their viability following menadione treatment compared to control cells. Conclusion. Using microarray analysis, Y-27632 was shown to upregulate antioxidative genes including catalase and partially reduce ROS production and cell death by oxidative stress caused by menadione.

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Use of Over-the-Counter Medication among Pregnant Women in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Background. Over-the-counter medications are widely available in pharmacies Their safety profile, however, does not extend to pregnant women. Accordingly, there should be educational programs developed for pregnant women to protect them from the harms of the side effects. Aim. This study was planned and designed with the aim of exploring the awareness and assessing the usage of OTC medications among pregnant women in Sharjah, UAE. Method. A cross-sectional survey using a self-administered questionnaire. Results. More than three-quarters (75.7%) reported that they are familiar with the term "over-the-counter drugs." Interestingly, 40% of the respondents reported that they took OTC drugs during pregnancy, and the majority (94.2%) agreed with the survey statement "not all OTC medications are safe to be taken during pregnancy." Constipation was the most frequent side effect that most of the participants reported during the study period. Folic acid (36%), calcium (28.6%), and iron (35.1%) were the most common supplements used by the pregnant women responding. Conclusion. The reported 40% usage of OTC medications among pregnant women in this study is worrisome and calls for the need to educate, counsel, and increase awareness among pregnant women regarding the dangers of OTC drugs usage while pregnant in Sharjah, UAE.

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Pharmacogenetic Biomarkers to Predict Treatment Response in Multiple Sclerosis: Current and Future Perspectives

Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have significantly advanced the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS), decreasing the frequency of relapses, disability, and magnetic resonance imaging lesion formation. However, patients' responses to and tolerability of DMTs vary considerably, creating an unmet need for biomarkers to identify likely responders and/or those who may have treatment-limiting adverse reactions. Most studies in MS have focused on the identification of pharmacogenetic markers, using either the candidate-gene approach, which requires prior knowledge of the genetic marker and its role in the target disease, or genome-wide association, which examines multiple genetic variants, typically single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Both approaches have implicated numerous alleles and SNPs in response to selected MS DMTs. None have been validated for use in clinical practice. This review covers pharmacogenetic markers in clinical practice in other diseases and then reviews the current status of MS DMT markers (interferon , glatiramer acetate, and mitoxantrone). For a complex disease such as MS, multiple biomarkers may need to be evaluated simultaneously to identify potential responders. Efforts to identify relevant biomarkers are underway and will need to be expanded to all MS DMTs. These will require extensive validation in large patient groups before they can be used in clinical practice.

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In Vivo Radioprotective Activity of Cell-Permeable Bifunctional Antioxidant Enzyme GST-TAT-SOD against Whole-Body Ionizing Irradiation in Mice

GST-TAT-SOD was the fusion of superoxide dismutase (SOD), cell-permeable peptide TAT, and glutathione-S-transferase (GST). It was proved to be a potential selective radioprotector in vitro in our previous work. This study evaluated the in vivo radioprotective activity of GST-TAT-SOD against whole-body irradiation. We demonstrated that intraperitoneal injection of 0.5 ml GST-TAT-SOD (2 kU/ml) 2 h before the 6 Gy whole-body irradiation in mice almost completely prevented the splenic damage. It could significantly enhance the splenic antioxidant activity which kept the number of splenic white pulp and consequently resisted the shrinkage of the spleen. Moreover, the thymus index, hepatic antioxidant activity, and white blood cell (WBC) count of peripheral blood in irradiated mice pretreated with GST-TAT-SOD also remarkably increased. Although the treated and untreated irradiated mice showed no significant difference in the growth rate of animal body weight at 7 days postirradiation, the highest growth rate of body weight was observed in the GST-TAT-SOD-pretreated group. Furthermore, GST-TAT-SOD pretreatment increased resistance against 8 Gy whole-body irradiation and enhanced 30 d survival. The overall effect of GST-TAT-SOD seemed to be a bit more powerful than that of amifostine. In conclusion, GST-TAT-SOD would be a safe and potentially promising radioprotector.

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Risk Factors Affecting the Severity of Full-Term Neonatal Retinal Hemorrhage

Objective. The purpose of this study was to explore the underlying clinical factors associated with the degree of retinal hemorrhage (RH) in full-term newborns. Methods. A total of 3054 full-term infants were included in this study. Eye examinations were performed with RetCamIII within one week of birth for all infants. Maternal, obstetric, and neonatal parameters were compared between newborns with RH and controls. The RH group was divided into three sections (I, II, and III) based on the degree of RH. Results. RH was observed in 1202 of 3054 infants (39.36%) in this study. The quantity and proportion of newborns in groups I, II, and III were 408 (13.36%), 610 (19.97%), and 184 (6.03%), respectively. Spontaneous vaginal delivery (SVD), prolonged duration of second stage of labor, advanced maternal age, and neonatal intracranial hemorrhage positively correlated with aggravation of the degree of RH in newborns. Conversely, cesarean section was protective against the incidence of RH. Conclusions. SVD, prolonged duration of second stage of labor, advanced maternal age, and neonatal intracranial hemorrhage were potential risk factors for aggravation of the degree of RH in full-term infants. Accordingly, infants with these risk factors may require greater attention with respect to RH development.

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