bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microvascular Complications and Their Associated Risk Factors in Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients
Authors: Bansal Dipika , Gudala Kapil , Esam Hari Prasad , Nayakallu Ramya , Vyamusani Raja Vikram , Bhansali Anil
Published: November 2014

The study was aimed at assessing the prevalence of microvascular complications and associated risk factors in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a public tertiary care hospital. All the recruited patients underwent extensive examination for the presence of microvascular complications like neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy. Prevalence of any complication was 18.04%. Prevalence of neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy was found to be 8.2%, 9.5%, and 2.8%, respectively. Triglycerides (OR, 1.01;P = 0.011) and old age (OR, 1.06;P ≤0.01) were significantly associated with any complication. Triglycerides were significantly associated with neuropathy (OR, 1.01;P = 0.05) and retinopathy (OR, 1.01;P =0.02). Being male posed high risk for nephropathy (OR, 0.06;P =0.01). These results are suggesting need of regular screening for microvascular complications.
Cross-Sectional Investigation of HEMS Activities in Europe: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Di Bartolomeo Stefano , Gava Paolo , Truhlář Anatolij , Sandberg Mårten , Group The Euphorea
Published: November 2014

Objectives.To gather information on helicopter emergency medical services (HEMSs) activities across Europe.Methods.Cross-sectional data-collection on daily (15 November 2013) activities of a sample of European HEMSs. A web-based questionnaire with both open and closed questions was used, developed by experts of the European Prehospital Research Alliance (EUPHOREA).Results.We invited 143 bases from 11 countries; 85 (60%) reported base characteristics only and 73 (51%) sample-day data too. The variety of base characteristics was enormous; that is, the target population ranged from 94.000 to 4.500.000. Of 158 requested primary missions, 62 (0.82 per base) resulted in landing. Cardiac aetiology (36%) and trauma (36%) prevailed, mostly of life-threatening severity (43%, 0.64 per mission). Had HEMS been not dispatched, patients would have been attended by another physician in 67% of cases, by paramedics in 24%, and by nurses in 9%. On-board physicians estimated to have caused a major decrease of death risk in 47% of missions, possible decrease in 22%, minor benefit in 17%, no benefit in 11%, and damage in 3%. Earlier treatment and faster transport to hospital were the main reasons for benefit. The most frequent therapeutic procedure was drug administration (78% of missions); endotracheal intubation occurred in 25% of missions and was an option hardly offered by ground crews.Conclusions.The study proved feasible, establishing an embryonic network of European HEMS. The participation rate was low and limits the generalizability of the results. Fortunately, because of its cross-sectional characteristics and the handy availability of the web platform, the study is easily repeatable with an enhanced network.
Reducing Railway Noise with Porous Sound-Absorbing Concrete Slabs
Authors: Zhao Caiyou , Wang Ping , Wang Li , Liu Dan
Published: November 2014

The effect of porous sound-absorbing concrete slabs on railway noise reduction is examined in this paper. First, the acoustical absorption coefficients of porous concrete materials with various aggregate types, gradations, fibre contents, and compaction indexes are measured in the laboratory. The laboratory results show that porous concrete that uses a composite of expanded perlite and slag as aggregate can not only obtain good acoustical absorption properties but also satisfy mechanical requirements. Also, the gradation of the combined aggregate has a significant effect on the acoustic absorption performance of the porous concrete, with an optimal aggregate gradation of 1~3 mm. Furthermore, the fibre content and compaction index affect both the strength and the acoustic absorption property of the porous concrete, with the optimum value of 0.3% and 1.6, respectively. Then, the findings from the laboratory studies are used to make porous sound-absorbing concrete slabs, which are applied in a test section. The measurements indicate that porous sound-absorbing concrete slabs can significantly reduce railway noise at different train speeds and that the amount of the noise reduction changes roughly linearly with speed when the train is traveling at less than 200 km/h. The maximum noise reduction is 4.05 dB at a speed of 200 km/h.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Anticancer Activity of New Quinazoline Derivatives against MCF-7 Cells
Authors: Faraj Fadhil Lafta , Zahedifard Maryam , Paydar Mohammadjavad , Looi Chung Yeng , Abdul Majid Nazia , Ali Hapipah Mohd , Ahmad Noraini , Gwaram Nura Suleiman , Abdulla Mahmood Ameen
Published: December 2014

Two new synthesized and characterized quinazoline Schiff bases 1 and 2 were investigated for anticancer activity against MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line. Compounds 1 and 2 demonstrated a remarkable antiproliferative effect, with an IC50value of 6.246 × 10−6mol/L and 5.910 × 10−6mol/L, respectively, after 72 hours of treatment. Most apoptosis morphological features in treated MCF-7 cells were observed by AO/PI staining. The results of cell cycle analysis indicate that compounds did not induce S and M phase arrest in cell after 24 hours of treatment. Furthermore, MCF-7 cells treated with 1 and 2 subjected to apoptosis death, as exhibited by perturbation of mitochondrial membrane potential and cytochrome c release as well as increase in ROS formation. We also found activation of caspases-3/7, -8, and -9 in compounds 1 and 2. Moreover, inhibition of NF-κB translocation in MCF-7 cells treated by compound 1 significantly exhibited the association of extrinsic apoptosis pathway. Acute toxicity results demonstrated the nontoxic nature of the compounds in mice. Our results showed significant activity towards MCF-7 cells via either intrinsic or extrinsic mitochondrial pathway and are potential candidate for furtherin vivoand clinical breast cancer studies.
Optimization Study in Biodiesel Production via Response Surface Methodology Using Dolomite as a Heterogeneous Catalyst
Authors: Santos Regina C. R. , Vieira Rômulo B. , Valentini Antoninho
Published: November 2014

A carbonate mineral, dolomite, was used as a heterogeneous catalyst to produce methyl-esters from soybean oil. The samples were analyzed by XRF, TGA, XRD, TPD-CO2, and SEM. The calcination of dolomite at 800°C/1 h resulted in a highly active mixed metal oxides. In addition, the influence of the reaction variables such as the temperature, catalyst amount, and methanol/soybean oil molar ratio in methyl-ester production was optimized by the application of a central composite design in conjunction with the response surface methodology (RSM). The XRF analysis is carried out after the reuses procedure which shows that the deactivation process is mainly due to the selective calcium leaching. Overall, the calcined dolomite exhibited high catalytic activity at moderate operating conditions for biodiesel production.
High Infestation byDawestrema cycloancistrioidesinArapaima gigasCultured in the Amazon Region, Peru
Authors: Mathews Patrick D. , Malheiros Antonio F. , Vasquez Narda D. , Chavez Milton D.
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence ofDawestrema cycloancistrioidesin semi-intensive fish farming of fingerlings ofArapaima gigas. Between September and November 2013, 60 individuals ofA. gigasborn in captivity, were collected in three concrete ponds, from a semi-intensive fish farm in the Peruvian Amazon. For the study of sclerotized structures, parasites were fixed in a solution of ammonium picrate glycerine and mounted in Canada balsam. To visualize internal structures, parasites were fixed in hot formaldehyde solution (4%) for staining with Gomori’s trichrome. The parasitic indexes calculated were prevalence, mean intensity, and mean abundance. This study identified a high infestation of a monogeneanD. cycloancistrioidesin gills ofA. gigas. The prevalence was 100%. The mean intensity and mean abundance of the parasite were 144.9 of parasites per individual. This study confirms the necessity of constant monitoring of fish in order to reduce fish mortality.
Effects of Continuous Use of Entonox in Comparison with Intermittent Method on Obstetric Outcomes: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Agah Jila , Baghani Roya , Safiabadi Tali Seid Hossein , Tabarraei Yaser
Published: November 2014

Background. Entonox (N2O2) which is an inhalational gas for relieving labor pain is commonly used intermittently; however some women are interested in continuous breathing in face mask. So we decided to compare the complications induced by two methods to find out whether it is safe to permit the mothers to use Entonox continuously or not.Patients and Methods. This randomized clinical trial was performed in Mobini Hospital, Sabzevar, Iran. 50 parturients used Entonox intermittently and 50 cases used it continuously during labor. Then obstetrical outcomes were analyzed in two groups by spss 17 software,t-test, and Chi2whileP<0.05was considered significant.Results. This study showed the mean duration of second stage of labor had no significant difference (P=0.3). Perineal laceration was less in continuous group significantly (P=0.04). Assisted vaginal birth was not different significantly (P=0.4). Uterine atony had no significant difference in two groups (P=0.2). Maternal collaboration in pushing and satisfaction were higher in continuous group significantly (P=0.03), (P<0.0001). Apgar score of neonates at first and fifth minute was acceptable and not different significantly in two groups (P=0.3).Conclusions. Our study demonstrated continuous method is also safe. So, it seems reasonable to set mothers free to choose the desired method of Entonox usage.
Aluminium AA6061 Matrix Composite Reinforced with Spherical Alumina Particles Produced by Infiltration: Perspective on Aerospace Applications
Authors: Bacciarini Claudio , Mathier Vincent
Published: November 2014

Metal matrix composites, based on AA6061 reinforced with 60 vol% Al2O3 spherical particles, were produced by gas pressure infiltration and characterized for hardness, impulse excitation modulus, tensile properties (at room temperature and at 250°C), and machining. It was experimentally demonstrated that the novel alumina powder used in the present work does not react with the liquid Mg-containing matrix during the infiltration process. The AA6061 matrix therefore retains its ability to be strengthened by precipitation heat treatment. The latter behaviour combined with the spherical particle shape confers the studied material higher strength and better machinability in comparison with similar composites produced using standard angular alumina particles. The overall features are promising for applications in the aerospace industry, where light and strong materials are required.
Counterfactual Thinking in Tourette’s Syndrome: A Study Using Three Measures
Authors: Zago Stefano , Delli Ponti Adriana , Mastroianni Silvia , Solca Federica , Tomasini Emanuele , Poletti Barbara , Inglese Silvia , Sartori Giuseppe , Porta Mauro
Published: November 2014

Pathophysiological evidence suggests an involvement of frontostriatal circuits in Tourette syndrome (TS) and cognitive abnormalities have been detected in tasks sensitive to cognitive deficits associated with prefrontal damage (verbal fluency, planning, attention shifting, working memory, cognitive flexibility, and social reasoning). A disorder in counterfactual thinking (CFT), a behavioural executive process linked to the prefrontal cortex functioning, has not been investigated in TS. CFT refers to the generation of a mental simulation of alternatives to past factual events, actions, and outcomes. It is a pervasive cognitive feature in everyday life and it is closely related to decision-making, planning, problem-solving, and experience-driven learning—cognitive processes that involve wide neuronal networks in which prefrontal lobes play a fundamental role. Clinical observations in patients with focal prefrontal lobe damage or with neurological and psychiatric diseases related to frontal lobe dysfunction (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and schizophrenia) show counterfactual thinking impairments. In this work, we evaluate the performance of CFT in a group of patients with Tourette’s syndrome compared with a group of healthy participants. Overall results showed no statistical differences in counterfactual thinking between TS patients and controls in the three counterfactual measures proposed. The possible explanations of this unexpected result are discussed below.
Caching Eliminates the Wireless Bottleneck in Video Aware Wireless Networks
Authors: Molisch Andreas F. , Caire Giuseppe , Ott David , Foerster Jeffrey R. , Bethanabhotla Dilip , Ji Mingyue
Published: November 2014

Wireless video is the main driver for rapid growth in cellular data traffic. Traditional methods for network capacity increase are very costly and do not exploit the unique features of video, especially asynchronous content reuse. In this paper we give an overview of our work that proposed and detailed a new transmission paradigm exploiting content reuse and the widespread availability of low-cost storage. Our network structure uses caching in helper stations (femtocaching) and/or devices, combined with highly spectrally efficient short-range communications to deliver video files. For femtocaching, we develop optimum storage schemes and dynamic streaming policies that optimize video quality. For caching on devices, combined with device-to-device (D2D) communications, we show that communications within clusters of mobile stations should be used; the cluster size can be adjusted to optimize the tradeoff between frequency reuse and the probability that a device finds a desired file cached by another device in the same cluster. In many situations the network throughput increases linearly with the number of users, and the tradeoff between throughput and outage is better than in traditional base-station centric systems. Simulation results with realistic numbers of users and channel conditions show that network throughput can be increased by two orders of magnitude compared to conventional schemes.
Top Differential Diagnosis Should Be Microscopic Polyangiitis in ANCA-Positive Patient with Diffuse Pulmonary Hemorrhage and Hemosiderosis
Authors: Ward Nicholas D. , Cosner Diane E. , Lamb Colleen A. , Li Wei , Macknis Jacqueline K. , Rooney Michele T. , Zhang Ping L.
Published: November 2014

A rat model of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) associated vasculitides reveals crescentic glomerulonephritis as seen in human renal biopsies and diffuse lung hemorrhage that is not well documented in human lung biopsies. A 64-year-old male, with shortness of breath and mild elevation of serum creatinine, was found to have a positive serum test for ANCA, but negative antiglomerular basement membrane antibody. A renal biopsy showed pauci-immune type of crescentic glomerulonephritis and focal arteritis. The prior lung wedge biopsy was retrospectively reviewed to show diffuse hemorrhage and hemosiderosis with focal giant cells. In addition, small arteries revealed subtle neutrophil aggregation, and margination along vascular endothelium, but no definitive vasculitis. The pathology of ANCA associated vasculitides results from activated neutrophils by ANCA and subsequent activation of the alternative complement cascade with endothelial injury, neutrophil aggregation and margination. Our findings, after the correlation between lung biopsy and renal biopsy, imply that the top differential diagnosis in the lung biopsy should be microscopic polyangiitis when diffuse pulmonary hemorrhage and hemosiderosis are present in this ANCA-positive patient.
Experimental Evaluation of Cooperative Relative Positioning for Intelligent Transportation System
Authors: Tang Suhua , Kawanishi Nao , Furukawa Rei , Kubo Nobuaki
Published: November 2014

Support system for safe driving heavily depends on global navigation satellite system. Pseudoranges between satellites and vehicles are measured to compute vehicles’ positions and their relative positions. In urban areas, however, multipath errors (MPEs) in pseudoranges, caused by obstruction and reflection of roadside buildings, greatly degrade the precision of relative positions. On the other hand, simply removing all reflected signals might lead to a shortage of satellites in fixing positions. In our previous work, we suggested solving this dilemma by cooperative relative positioning (CoRelPos) which exploits spatial correlation of MPEs. In this paper, we collected the trace data of pseudoranges by driving cars in urban areas, analyzed the properties of MPEs (specifically, their dependency on signal strength, elevation angles of satellites, and receivers’ speeds), and highlighted their spatial correlation. On this basis, the CoRelPos scheme is refined by considering the dynamics of MPEs. Evaluation results under practical vehicular scenarios confirm that properties of MPEs can be exploited to improve the precision of relative positions.
Central Portalization Correlates with Fibrosis but Not with Risk Factors for Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in Steatotic Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Lee Hwajeong , Ainechi Sanaz , Dresser Karen , Kurian Elizabeth M.
Published: November 2014

Concomitant steatosis in chronic hepatitis C is associated with fibrosis and unfavorable treatment outcome. Central zone injury in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) manifests as central portalization, with centrizonal microvessels and ductular reaction. We investigated whether central portalization in steatotic HCV biopsies would identify patients with metabolic risk factors for NASH. Liver biopsies with chronic hepatitis C and >10% steatosis(n=65)were evaluated for the degree of steatosis, zonation of steatosis, fibrosis, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity score. The presence of centrizonal microvessels, sinusoidal capillarization, ductular reaction, and CK7 positive intermediate-phenotype hepatocytes were evaluated by CD34 and CK7 immunostain. The degree of steatosis and fibrosis showed a positive correlation. Additional positive correlations were noted between centrizonal angiogenesis and NAFLD activity score and central portalization and fibrosis. However, neither central portalization nor zonation of steatosis identified patients with metabolic risk factors for NASH. Therefore, central portalization cannot be used as a surrogate marker to identify patients with metabolic risk factors for NASH in steatotic HCV biopsies. The mechanism of centrizonal injury in steatotic HCV hepatitis is not solely attributable to the metabolic risk factors for NASH.
Autoantibodies Targeting AT1 Receptor from Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome Upregulate Proinflammatory Cytokines Expression in Endothelial Cells Involving NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Li Weijuan , Li Zhi , Chen Yaoqi , Li Songhai , Lv Yuanyuan , Zhou Wenping , Liao Mengyang , Zhu Feng , Zhou Zihua , Cheng Xiang , Zeng Qiutang , Liao Yuhua , Wei Yumiao
Published: November 2014

Our study intended to prove whether agonistic autoantibodies to angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1-AAs) exist in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) and affect the human endothelial cell (HEC) by upregulating proinflammatory cytokines expression involved in NF-κB pathway. Antibodies were determined by chronotropic responses of cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes coupled with receptor-specific antagonists (valsartan and AT1-EC2) as described previously. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) expression were improved at both mRNA and protein levels in HEC, while NF-κB in the DNA level was improved detected by electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA). These improvements could be inhibited by specific AT1 receptor blocker valsartan, NF-κB blocker pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC), and specific short peptides from the second extracellular loop of AT1 receptor. These results suggested that AT1-AAs, via the AT1 receptor, induce expression of proinflammatory cytokines involved in the activation of NF-κB. AT1-AAs may play a great role in the pathogenesis of the acute coronary syndrome by mediating vascular inflammatory effects involved in the NF-κB pathway.
Concepts and Treatment Approaches in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Halegoua-De Marzio Dina L. , Fenkel Jonathan M.
Published: November 2014

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects up to 30% of adults and is the most common liver disease in Western nations. NAFLD is associated with central adiposity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and cardiovascular disease. It encompasses the entire spectrum of fatty liver diseases from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with lobular/portal inflammation, hepatocellular necrosis, and fibrosis. Of those who develop NASH, 15–25% will progress to end stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma over 10–20 years. Its pathogenesis is complex, and involves a state of lipid accumulation due to increased uptake of free fatty acids into the liver, impaired fatty acid beta oxidation, and increased incidence of de novo lipogenesis. Plasma aminotransferases and liver ultrasound are helpful in the diagnosis of NAFLD/NASH, but a liver biopsy is often required for definitive diagnosis. Many new plasma biomarkers and imaging techniques are now available that should improve the ability to diagnose NAFLD noninvasively Due to its complexity and extrahepatic complications, treatment of NAFLD requires a multidisciplinary approach with excellent preventative care, management, and treatment. This review will evaluate our current understanding of NAFLD, with a focus on existing therapeutic approaches and potential pharmacological developments.
Near-Peer Teaching and Exam Results: The Acceptability, Impact, and Assessment Outcomes of a Novel Biological Sciences Revision Programme Taught by Senior Medical Students
Authors: Mann Jake , Protty Majd B. , Duffy John , Mohammed Mohammed , Wiskin Connie
Published: November 2014

Background. Near-peer teaching is becoming increasingly popular as a learning methodology. We report the development of a novel near-peer biological sciences revision course and its acceptability and impact on student confidence and exam performance. Methods. A cross-sectional analysis of tutee-completed evaluation forms before and after each session was performed, providing demographic details, quality scores, and self-rating of confidence in the topic taught on a 0 to 100 mm visual analogue scale (VAS). The confidence data was examined using analysis of means. Exam performance was examined by analysis of variance and canonical correlation analysis. Results. Thirty-eight sessions were delivered to an average of 69.9 (±27.1) years 1 and 2 medical students per session generating 2656 adequately completed forms. There was a mean VAS gain of 19.1 (5.3 to 27.3) in self-reported confidence. Looking at relationship between attendance and exam scores, only two topics showed significant association between number of sessions attended and exam performance, fewer than hypothesised. Conclusion. The present study demonstrates that near-peer teaching for biological sciences is feasible and is associated with improved self-reported confidence in the sessions taught. The outcome data, showing significant effect for only a small number of items, demonstrates the difficulty of outcome related research.
Numerical Study of Membrane Configurations
Authors: Mesarec Luka , Fošnarič Miha , Penič Samo , Kralj Iglič Veronika , Kralj Samo , Góźdź Wojciech , Iglič Aleš
Published: November 2014

We studied biological membranes of spherical topology within the framework of the spontaneous curvature model. Both Monte Carlo simulations and the numerical minimization of the curvature energy were used to obtain the shapes of the vesicles. The shapes of the vesicles and their energy were calculated for different values of the reduced volume. The vesicles which exhibit in-plane ordering were also studied. Minimal models have been developed in order to study the orientational ordering in colloids coated with a thin sheet of nematic liquid crystal (nematic shells). The topological defects are always present on the surfaces with the topology of a sphere. The location of the topological defects depends strongly on the curvature of the surface. We studied the nematic ordering and the formation of topological defects on vesicles obtained by the minimization of the spontaneous curvature energy.
Study of Optical and Structural Characteristics of Ceria Nanoparticles Doped with Negative and Positive Association Lanthanide Elements
Authors: Shehata N. , Meehan K. , Hudait M. , Jain N. , Gaballah S.
Published: November 2014

This paper studies the effect of adding lanthanides with negative association energy, such as holmium and erbium, to ceria nanoparticles doped with positive association energy lanthanides, such as neodymium and samarium. That is what we called mixed doped ceria nanoparticles (MDC NPs). In MDC NPs of grain size range around 6 nm, it is proved qualitatively that the conversion rate from Ce4+ to Ce3+ is reduced, compared to ceria doped only with positive association energy lanthanides. There are many pieces of evidence which confirm the obtained conclusion. These indications are an increase in the allowed direct band gap which is calculated from the absorbance dispersion measurements, a decrease in the emitted fluorescence intensity, and an increase in the size of nanoparticles, which is measured using both techniques: transmission electron microscope (TEM) and X‐ray diffractometer (XRD). That gives a novel conclusion that there are some trivalent dopants, such as holmium and erbium, which can suppress Ce3+ ionization states in ceria and consequently act as scavengers for active O‐vacancies in MDC. This promising concept can develop applications which depend on the defects in ceria such as biomedicine, electronic devices, and gas sensors.
Intraventricular Hemorrhage after Epidural Blood Patching: An Unusual Complication
Authors: Sorour Mohammad , Krisht Khaled M. , Couldwell William T.
Published: December 2014

The authors present two cases of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) believed to be a result of epidural blood patching. The first was a 71-year-old woman who had new onset of nontraumatic IVH on computed tomography (CT) scan after undergoing an epidural blood patch (EBP). This amount of intraventricular blood was deemed an incidental finding since it was of very small volume to account for her overall symptoms. The second patient, a 29-year-old woman, was found to have nontraumatic IVH three days after undergoing an EBP. This was seen on CT scan of the head for workup of pressure-like headaches, nausea, vomiting, and absence seizures. Conservative management was followed in both instances. Serial CT scan of the head in our first patient displayed complete resolution of her IVH. The second patient did not have follow-up CT scans because her overall clinical picture had improved significantly. This highlights a potential sequel of EBP that may be observed on CT scan of the head. In the event that IVH is detected, signs and symptoms of hydrocephalus should be closely monitored with the consideration for a future workup if warranted by the clinical picture.
Low Molecular Weight Fucoidan Alleviates Cardiac Dysfunction in Diabetic Goto-Kakizaki Rats by Reducing Oxidative Stress and Cardiomyocyte Apoptosis
Authors: Yu Xinfeng , Zhang Quanbin , Cui Wentong , Zeng Zheng , Yang Wenzhe , Zhang Chao , Zhao Hongwei , Gao Weidong , Wang Xiaomin , Luo Dali
Published: November 2014

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by cardiac dysfunction and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Oxidative stress is suggested to be the major contributor to the development of DCM. This study was intended to evaluate the protective effect of low molecular weight fucoidan (LMWF) against cardiac dysfunction in diabetic rats. Type 2 diabetic goto-kakizaki rats were untreated or treated with LMWF (50 and 100 mg/kg/day) for three months. The establishment of DCM model and the effects of LMWF on cardiac function were evaluated by echocardiography and isolated heart perfusion. Ventricle staining with H-E or Sirius Red was performed to investigate the structural changes in myocardium. Functional evaluation demonstrated that LMWF has a beneficial effect on DCM by enhancing myocardial contractility and mitigating cardiac fibrosis. Additionally, LMWF exerted significant inhibitory effects on the reactive oxygen species production and myocyte apoptosis in diabetic hearts. The depressed activity of superoxide dismutase in diabetic heart was also improved by intervention with LMWF. Moreover, LMWF robustly inhibited the enhanced expression of protein kinase Cβ, an important contributor to oxidative stress, in diabetic heart and high glucose-treated cardiomyocytes. In conclusion, LMWF possesses a protective effect against DCM through ameliorations of PKCβ-mediated oxidative stress and subsequent cardiomyocyte apoptosis in diabetes.
Field Induced Memory Effects in Random Nematics
Authors: Ranjkesh Amid , Ambrožič Milan , Kralj Samo , Sluckin T. J.
Published: November 2014

We studied numerically external field induced memory effects in randomly perturbed nematic liquid crystals. Random anisotropy nematic-type lattice model was used. Theimpuritiesimposing orientational disorder were randomly spatially distributed with the concentrationpbelow the percolation threshold. Simulations were carried for finite temperatures, where we variedp, interaction strength between LC molecules, andimpuritiesand external fieldB. In the{B,T}plane we determined lines separating short range—quasi long range and quasi long range—long range order. Furthermore, crossover regime separating external field and random field dominated regime was estimated. We calculated remanent nematic ordering in samples atB=0as a function of the previously experienced external field strengthB.
WHO Grade 2 Neuroendocrine Tumor in a 15-Year-Old Male: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Johannesen Eric , Nguyen Van
Published: November 2014

Neuroendocrine tumors, distinguished from adenocarcinomas by their neuroendocrine differentiation, are the most common pediatric epithelial malignancy that most often occurs in the appendix. In 2010, the WHO classified neuroendocrine neoplasms into three grades based on morphology, mitotic count, and Ki67 proliferation index. A 15-year-old male with a history of anemia and failure to thrive was diagnosed with a well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor in the jejunum that invaded into the subserosal soft tissue and metastasized to four lymph nodes. Pediatric neuroendocrine tumors frequently arise within hereditary tumor syndromes with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors being the most common. Several studies also indicate an elevated risk of small intestinal neuroendocrine tumors in which children born to a parent with a history of neuroendocrine tumors in the small intestine have a significant increased risk of developing one.
Analysis and Evaluation of Schemes for Secure Sum in Collaborative Frequent Itemset Mining across Horizontally Partitioned Data
Authors: Nanavati Nirali R. , Lalwani Prakash , Jinwala Devesh C.
Published: November 2014

Privacy preservation while undertaking collaborative distributed frequent itemset mining (PPDFIM) is an important research direction. The current state of the art for privacy preservation in distributed frequent itemset mining for secure sum in a horizontally partitioned data model comprises primarily public key based homomorphic schemes which are expensive in terms of the communication and computation cost. The nonpublic key based existing state-of-the-art scheme by Clifton et al. used for secure sum in PPDFIM is efficient but prone to security attacks. In this paper, we propose Shamir’s secret sharing based approaches and a symmetric key based scheme to calculate the secure sum in PPDFIM. These schemes are information theoretically secure under the standard assumptions. We further give a detailed theoretical and empirical evaluation of our proposed schemes for PPDFIM using a real market basket dataset. Our experimental analysis also shows that our schemes perform better in terms of the execution cost compared to the public key based scheme for secure sum in PPDFIM.
Systematic Analysis of the Multiple Bioactivities of Green Tea through a Network Pharmacology Approach
Authors: Zhang Shoude , Shan Lei , Li Qiao , Wang Xia , Li Shiliang , Zhang Yuan , Fu Jianjun , Liu Xiaofeng , Li Honglin , Zhang Weidong
Published: November 2014

During the past decades, a number of studies have demonstrated multiple beneficial health effects of green tea. Polyphenolics are the most biologically active components of green tea. Many targets can be targeted or affected by polyphenolics. In this study, we excavated all of the targets of green tea polyphenolics (GTPs) though literature mining and target calculation and analyzed the multiple pharmacology actions of green tea comprehensively through a network pharmacology approach. In the end, a total of 200 Homo sapiens targets were identified for fifteen GTPs. These targets were classified into six groups according to their related disease, which included cancer, diabetes, neurodegenerative disease, cardiovascular disease, muscular disease, and inflammation. Moreover, these targets mapped into 143 KEGG pathways, 26 of which were more enriched, as determined though pathway enrichment analysis and target‐pathway network analysis. Among the identified pathways, 20 pathways were selected for analyzing the mechanisms of green tea in these diseases. Overall, this study systematically illustrated the mechanisms of the pleiotropic activity of green tea by analyzing the corresponding “drug‐target‐pathway‐disease” interaction network.
Design for Reliability of Complex System: Case Study of Horizontal Drilling Equipment with Limited Failure Data
Authors: Soleimani Morteza , Pourgol-Mohammad Mohammad , Rostami Ali , Ghanbari Ahmad
Published: November 2014

Reliability is an important phase in durable system designs, specifically in the early phase of the product development. In this paper, a new methodology is proposed for complex systems’ design for reliability. Specific test and field failure data scarcity is evaluated here as a challenge to implement design for reliability of a new product. In the developed approach, modeling and simulation of the system are accomplished by using reliability block diagram (RBD) method. The generic data are corrected to account for the design and environment effects on the application. The integral methodology evaluates reliability of the system and assesses the importance of each component. In addition, the availability of the system was evaluated using Monte Carlo simulation. Available design alternatives with different components are analyzed for reliability optimization. Evaluating reliability of complex systems in competitive design attempts is one of the applications of this method. The advantage of this method is that it is applicable in early design phase where there is only limited failure data available. As a case study, horizontal drilling equipment is used for assessment of the proposed method. Benchmarking of the results with a system with more available failure and maintenance data verifies the effectiveness and performance quality of presented method.
Haptoglobin Duplicon, Hemoglobin, and Vitamin C: Analyses in the British Women’s Heart and Health Study and Caerphilly Prospective Study
Authors: Guthrie Philip A. I. , Abdollahi Mohammad R. , Gaunt Tom , Lawlor Debbie A. , Ben-Shlomo Yoav , Gallacher John , Davey Smith George , Day Ian N. M. , Rodriguez Santiago
Published: November 2014

Background. Haptoglobin acts as an antioxidant by limiting peroxidative tissue damage by free hemoglobin. The haptoglobin gene allele Hp2 comprises a 1.7 kb partial duplication. Relative to allele Hp1, Hp2 carriers form protein multimers, suboptimal for hemoglobin scavenging.Objective. To examine the association of haptoglobin genotype with a range of phenotypes, with emphasis on vitamin C and hemoglobin levels.Methods. We applied a quantitative PCR assay for the duplication junction to two population cohorts including 2747 British women and 1198 British men. We examined the association of haptoglobin duplicon copy number with hemoglobin and vitamin C and used the copy number to complete a phenome scan.Results.Hemoglobin concentrations were greater in those with Hp2,2 genotype, in women only (Hp1,1 13.45 g/dL, Hp1,2 13.49 g/dL, Hp2,2 13.61 g/dL;P=0.002), though statistically there was no evidence of a difference between the sexes (zvalue = 1.2,P=0.24). Haptoglobin genotype was not associated with vitamin C or any other phenotype in either cohort.Conclusions. Our results do not support association of haptoglobin genotype with vitamin C or with other phenotypes measured in two population cohorts. The apparent association between haptoglobin genotype and hemoglobin in the women’s cohort merits further investigation.
Generalized Composition Operators on Zygmund-Orlicz Type Spaces and Bloch-Orlicz Type Spaces
Authors: Yang Congli , Chen Fangwei , Wu Pengcheng
Published: November 2014

The boundedness and compactness of generalized composition operators on Zygmund-Orlicz type spaces and Bloch-Orlicz type spaces are established in this paper.
Periodic Solutions for a Class of Singular Hamiltonian Systems on Time Scales
Authors: Meng Xiaofang , Li Yongkun
Published: November 2014

We are concerned with a class of singular Hamiltonian systems on time scales. Some results on the existence of periodic solutions are obtained for the system under consideration by means of the variational methods and the critical point theory.
Quantification of an External Motion Surrogate for Quality Assurance in Lung Cancer Radiation Therapy
Authors: Wölfelschneider Jens , Brandt Tobias , Lettmaier Sebastian , Fietkau Rainer , Bert Christoph
Published: November 2014

The purpose of this work was to validate the stability of the end exhale position in deep expiration breath hold (DEBH) technique for quality assurance in stereotactic lung tumor radiation therapy. Furthermore, a motion analysis was performed for 20 patients to evaluate breathing periods and baseline drifts based on an external surrogate. This trajectory was detected using stereo infrared (IR) cameras and reflective body markers. The respiratory waveform showed large interpatient differences in the end exhale position during irradiation up to 18.8 mm compared to the global minimum. This position depends significantly on the tumor volume. Also the baseline drifts, which occur mostly in posterior direction, are affected by the tumor size. Breathing periods, which depend mostly on the patient age, were in a range between 2.4 s and 7.0 s. Fifteen out of 20 patients, who showed a reproducible end exhale position with a deviation of less than 5 mm, might benefit from DEBH due to smaller planning target volumes (PTV) compared to free breathing irradiation and hence sparing of healthy tissue. Patients with larger uncertainties should be treated with more complex motion compensation techniques.
Meteorological Variables Associated with Stroke
Authors: Nocera Romy , Petrucelli Philip , Park Johnathan , Stander Eric
Published: November 2014

To elucidate relationships between meteorological variables and incidence of stroke, we studied patients diagnosed with stroke after presenting to the emergency department (May 1, 2010–August 8, 2011). Patient demographics and medical data were reviewed retrospectively with regional meteorological data. Across 467 days, 134 stroke events were recorded on 114 days. On stroke days, maximum temperature (max T) and atmospheric pressure (AP) combined were a significant predictor of stroke (max T odds ratio (OR) = 1.014, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.003–1.026, and P=0.04; AP: OR = 1.033, 95% CI = 0.997–1.071, and P=0.02). When the patient could identify the hour of the stroke, average temperature (avg T) was significantly higher than nonstroke hours (18.2°C versus 16.16°C, P=0.04). Daily fluctuations in AP and avg T also had significant effects on stroke incidence (AP: OR = 0.629, 95% CI = 0.512–0.773, and P=0.0001; avg T OR = 1.1399, 95% CI = 1.218–606, and P=0.0001). Patient age, stroke history, body mass index, ethnicity, and sex were further contributors to stroke risk. Temperature, atmospheric pressure, and certain physiological conditions likely play roles in weather-related stroke susceptibility. The mechanisms driving these associations are not fully understood.
Common Coupled Fixed Point Theorems for Two Hybrid Pairs of Mappings under φ-ψ Contraction
Authors: Deshpande Bhavana , Handa Amrish
Published: November 2014

We introduce the concept of (EA) property and occasional w-compatibility for hybrid pair F:X×X→2X and f:X→X. We also introduce common (EA) property for two hybrid pairs F, G:X→2X and f, g:X→X. We establish some common coupled fixed point theorems for two hybrid pairs of mappings under φ-ψ contraction on noncomplete metric spaces. An example is also given to validate our results. We improve, extend and generalize several known results. The results of this paper generalize the common fixed point theorems for hybrid pairs of mappings and essentially contain fixed point theorems for hybrid pair of mappings.
The Experience of Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Ethnography
Authors: Soundy Andrew , Stubbs Brendon , Roskell Carolyn
Published: November 2014

There has been little attempt to summarise and synthesise qualitative studies concerning the experience and perception of living with Parkinson’s disease. Bringing this information together would provide a background to understand the importance of an individual’s social identity on their well-being and hope. Three primary aims were identified (a) understanding the importance of social identity and meaningful activities on individuals’ well-being, (b) identifying factors and strategies that influence well-being and hope, and (c) establishing a model that relates to an individual’s hope and well-being. Three stages were undertaken including a traditional electronic search, a critical appraisal of articles, and a synthesis of studies. Qualitative articles were included that considered the experience of living with Parkinson’s disease. Thirty seven articles were located and included in the review. Five themes were identified and the themes were used to inform development of a new model of hope enablement. The current review furthered understanding of how physical symptoms and the experience of Parkinson’s disease affect the individual’s well-being and hope. Social identity was established as a key factor that influenced an individual’s well-being. Being able to maintain, retain, or develop social identities was essential for the well-being and hope of individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Understanding the factors which prevent or can facilitate this is essential.
Clinical Significance of IL-23 Regulating IL-17A and/or IL-17F Positive Th17 Cells in Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Luo Zhenhua , Wang Hui , Wu Yunlong , Sun Zheng , Wu Yafei
Published: November 2014

Objective. To investigate the expression level and clinical significance of (IL-17A+and/or IL-17F+) Th17 cells under IL-23 regulation in patients of chronic periodontitis (CP) and healthy controls (HC).Materials and Methods. The whole peripheral blood samples were collected from 30 CP patients and 25 healthy controls. Flow cytometry was used to test the (IL-17A+and/or IL-17F+) Th17 expression level. Recombinant human IL-23 (rhIL-23) was used to detect Th17 differentiation and expansion. Correlation coefficient analysis between Th17 expression level and clinical parameters was analyzed by SPSS software.Results. Flow cytometry results showed that IL-17A+IL-17F−and IL-17A−IL-17F+Th17 were both increased in CP group than in HC group (P< 0.01), while, under recombinant human IL-23 (rhIL-23) stimulation, the number of IL-17A+IL-17F−Th17 cells was significantly increased in both CP and HC groups (P< 0.01). Interestingly, IL-17A−IL-17F+Th17 cells were only increased in CP group after rhIL-23 stimulation. Additionally, correlation coefficient analysis showed significant correlation between IL-17A+IL-17F−Th17 cell and attachment loss or probing depth (P< 0.05).Conclusions. This study indicates that both the IL-17A+IL-17F−and IL-17A−IL-17F+Th17 cells may be involved in pathogenesis of periodontitis. The role of these Th17 cells in the disease pathogenesis needs to be further investigated.
GSK-3βInhibition Attenuates CLP-Induced Liver Injury by Reducing Inflammation and Hepatic Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Zhang Hui , Wang Wenjie , Fang Haoshu , Yang Yan , Li Xiaolan , He Junli , Jiang Xiaojing , Wang Weipeng , Liu Shenpei , Hu Jifa , Liu Anding , Dahmen Uta , Dirsch Olaf
Published: November 2014

Liver dysfunction has been known to occur frequently in cases of sepsis. Excessive inflammation and apoptosis are pathological features of acute liver failure. Recent studies suggest that activation of glycogen synthase kinase- (GSK-) 3βis involved in inflammation and apoptosis. We aimed to investigate the protective effects of GSK-3βinhibition on polymicrobial sepsis-induced liver injury and to explore the possible mechanisms. Polymicrobial sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), and SB216763 was used to inhibit GSK-3βin C57BL/6 mice. GSK-3βwas activated following CLP. Administration of SB216763 decreased mortality, ameliorated liver injury, and reduced hepatic apoptosis. The inhibition of GSK-3βalso reduced leukocyte infiltration and hepatic inflammatory cytokine expression and release. Moreover, GSK-3βinhibition suppressed the transcriptional activity of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) but enhanced the transcriptional activity of cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) in the liver. In in vitro studies, GSK-3βinhibition reduced inflammatory cytokine production via modulation of NF-κB and CREB signaling pathways in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages. In conclusion, these findings suggest that GSK-3βblockade protects against CLP-induced liver via inhibition of inflammation by modulating NF-κB and CREB activity and suppression of hepatic apoptosis.
Gene Expression Profiling of Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) and Crisp Grass Carp
Authors: Yu Ermeng , Xie Jun , Wang Guangjun , Yu Deguang , Gong Wangbao , Li Zhifei , Wang Haiying , Xia Yun , Wei Nan
Published: November 2014

Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) is one of the most important freshwater fish that is native to China, and crisp grass carp is a kind of high value-added fishes which have higher muscle firmness. To investigate biological functions and possible signal transduction pathways that address muscle firmness increase of crisp grass carp, microarray analysis of 14,900 transcripts was performed. Compared with grass carp, 127 genes were upregulated and 114 genes were downregulated in crisp grass carp. Gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed 30 GOs of differentially expressed genes in crisp grass carp. And strong correlation with muscle firmness increase of crisp grass carp was found for these genes from differentiation of muscle fibers and deposition of ECM, and also glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathway and calcium metabolism may contribute to muscle firmness increase. In addition, a number of genes with unknown functions may be related to muscle firmness, and these genes are still further explored. Overall, these results had been demonstrated to play important roles in clarifying the molecular mechanism of muscle firmness increase in crisp grass carp.