bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A scintillator‐based approach to monitor secondary neutron production during proton therapy
Authors: Clarke S. D. , Pryser E. , Wieger B. M. , Pozzi S. A. , Haelg R. A. , Bashkirov V. A. , Schulte R. W.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The primary objective of this work is to measure the secondary neutron field produced by an uncollimated proton pencil beam impinging on different tissue‐equivalent phantom materials using organic scintillation detectors. Additionally, the Monte Carlo code mcnpx‐PoliMi was used to simulate the detector response for comparison to the measured data. Comparison of the measured and simulated data will validate this approach for monitoring secondary neutron dose during proton therapy.

Methods

Proton beams of 155‐ and 200‐MeV were used to irradiate a variety of phantom materials and secondary particles were detected using organic liquid scintillators. These detectors are sensitive to fast neutrons and gamma rays: pulse shape discrimination was used to classify each detected pulse as either a neutron or a gamma ray. The mcnpx‐PoliMi code was used to simulate the secondary neutron field produced during proton irradiation of the same tissue‐equivalent phantom materials.

Results

An experiment was performed at the Loma Linda University Medical Center proton therapy research beam line and corresponding models were created using the mcnpx‐PoliMi code. The authors’ analysis showed agreement between the simulations and the measurements. The simulated detector response can be used to validate the simulations of neutron and gamma doses on a particular beam line with or without a phantom.

Conclusions

The authors have demonstrated a method of monitoring the neutron component of the secondary radiation field produced by therapeutic protons. The method relies on direct detection of secondary neutrons and gamma rays using organic scintillation detectors. These detectors are sensitive over the full range of biologically relevant neutron energies above 0.5 MeV and allow effective discrimination between neutron and photon dose. Because the detector system is portable, the described system could be used in the future to evaluate secondary neutron and gamma doses on various clinical beam lines for commissioning and prospective data collection in pediatric patients treated with proton therapy.
Wave propagation analysis in spiral geometries
Authors: Morteza Pouraghdam Rasoul , Bhat Rama B.
Published: October 2016

In this paper wave propagation in strings of exponential and conical spiral geometries and in an exponential spiral horn of increasing circular cross-section area is studied. The three-dimensional wave equation in cylindrical coordinates is investigated, as the theoretical solution in the exponential spiral horn is derived and in the case of the strings, numerical simulation mainly using a centered in time and space finite difference scheme is carried out. The results suggest non-harmonic resonance modes in both of the conical and exponential spiral strings.
Sulfur deficiency–induced repressor proteins optimize glucosinolate biosynthesis in plants
Authors: Aarabi Fayezeh , Kusajima Miyuki , Tohge Takayuki , Konishi Tomokazu , Gigolashvili Tamara , Takamune Makiko , Sasazaki Yoko , Watanabe Mutsumi , Nakashita Hideo , Fernie Alisdair R. , Saito Kazuki , Takahashi Hideki , Hubberten Hans-Michael , Hoefgen Rainer , Maruyama-Nakashita Akiko
Published: October 2016

Researchers report how sulfur deficiency affects glucosinolate biosynthesis in plants.
Mineral weathering and soil development in the earliest land plant ecosystems
Authors: Mitchell Ria L. , Cuadros Javier , Duckett Jeffrey G. , Pressel Silvia , Mavris Christian , Sykes Dan , Najorka Jens , Edgecombe Gregory D. , Kenrick Paul
Published: October 2016

Land colonization by plants and their fungal and bacterial symbionts during the Paleozoic was fundamental to the evolution of terrestrial ecosystems, but how these early communities influenced mineral weathering and soil development remains largely unknown. We investigated cryptogamic ground covers (CGCs) in Iceland to identify modern analogous communities and to characterize soil structure and biologically mediated weathering features. Using a novel application of X-ray microcomputed tomography, we show that moss-dominated CGCs and their soils are not adequate analogues of early communities. Comparisons with the 407 Ma Rhynie Chert (Scotland) biota indicate that modern CGCs dominated by lichens, liverworts, and their associated symbionts (fungi, cyanobacteria) are more representative of early soil-forming communities. Liverwort and lichen soils are thin, and their depth and complexity are constrained by the size and growth form of the dominant plants or lichens. They are aggregated and stabilized by cyanobacteria, mycorrhizal and lichenized fungi, rhizoids, and associated exudates. Smectite was associated with liverwort but not with moss CGC soils. Soil grain dissolution features are diverse and attributable to different organisms (e.g., bacteria, fungi) and types of interaction (e.g., symbiosis). We postulate that such features provide a novel indirect means of inferring biotic interactions in paleosols.
Impact of weekday surgery on application of enhanced recovery pathway: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Romain Benoît , Grass Fabian , Addor Valérie , Demartines Nicolas , Hübner Martin
Published: October 2016

Objective

To compare the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol compliance and clinical outcomes depending on the weekday of surgery.

Settings

Cohort of consecutive non-selected patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery from January 2012 to March 2015. This retrospective analysis of our prospective database compared patients operatedearlyin the week (Monday and Tuesday) with patients operated in the second half (late: Thursday, Friday).

Primary outcome measures

Compliance with the ERAS protocol, functional recovery, complications and length of stay.

Results

Demographic and surgical details were similar between the early (n=352) and late groups (n=204). Overall compliance with the ERAS protocol was 78% vs 76% for the early and late groups, respectively (p=0.009). Significant differences were notably prolonged urinary drainage and intravenous fluid infusion in the late group. Complication rates and length of stay, however, were not different between surgery on Monday or Tuesday and surgery on Thursday or Friday.

Conclusions

Application of the ERAS protocol showed only minor differences for patients operated on early or late during the week, and clinical outcomes were similar. A fully implemented ERAS programme appears to work also over the weekend.
Choosing Wisely: assessment of current US top five list recommendations’ trustworthiness using a pragmatic approach
Authors: Horvath Karl , Semlitsch Thomas , Jeitler Klaus , Abuzahra Muna E , Posch Nicole , Domke Andreas , Siebenhofer Andrea
Published: October 2016

Objectives

Identification of sufficiently trustworthy top 5 list recommendations from the US Choosing Wisely campaign.

Setting

Not applicable.

Participants

All top 5 list recommendations available from the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation website.

Main outcome measures/interventions

Compilation of US top 5 lists and search for current German highly trustworthy (S3) guidelines. Extraction of guideline recommendations, including grade of recommendation (GoR), for suggestions comparable to top 5 list recommendations. For recommendations without guideline equivalents, the methodological quality of the top 5 list development process was assessed using criteria similar to that used to judge guidelines, and relevant meta-literature was identified in cited references. Judgement of sufficient trustworthiness of top 5 list recommendations was based either on an ‘A’ GoR of guideline equivalents or on high methodological quality and citation of relevant meta-literature.

Results

412 top 5 list recommendations were identified. For 75 (18%), equivalents were found in current German S3 guidelines. 44 of these recommendations were associated with an ‘A’ GoR, or a strong recommendation based on strong evidence, and 26 had a ‘B’ or a ‘C’ GoR. No GoR was provided for 5 recommendations. 337 recommendations had no equivalent in the German S3 guidelines. The methodological quality of the development process was high and relevant meta-literature was cited for 87 top 5 list recommendations. For a further 36, either the methodological quality was high without any meta-literature citations or meta-literature citations existed but the methodological quality was lacking. For the remaining 214 recommendations, either the methodological quality was lacking and no literature was cited or the methodological quality was generally unsatisfactory.

Conclusions

131 of current US top 5 list recommendations were found to be sufficiently trustworthy. For a substantial number of current US top 5 list recommendations, their trustworthiness remains unclear. Methodological requirements for developing top 5 lists are recommended.
Examination of the influence of social capital on depression in fragile families
Authors: Wilmot Neil A , Dauner Kim Nichols
Published: October 2016

Background

While it appears that social capital has a positive effect on mental health, most studies have been cross-sectional in nature and/or employ weak measures of social capital or mental health. Even less attention has been paid to vulnerable populations, such as low-income women with children. Thus, our objective was to explore how different dimensions of social capital impact depression in this population.

Methods

We used data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study, which has followed a cohort of children born in large US cities to mostly minority, unmarried parents for over 9 years. These families tend to be at greater risk for falling into poverty. Four separate measures of social capital were constructed, using measures that are reliable and that offer evidence of validity including social support and trust, social participation, perceptions of neighbourhood social cohesion and perceptions of neighbourhood social control. The temporal effect of social capital on mental health, as measured by a standardised screening for depression was investigated using logistic regression.

Results

After controlling for relevant socioeconomic and demographic factors, prior depression, and prior self-rated health, the social capital dimensions of social support and trust and perceived neighbourhood social cohesion are significant predictors of depression.

Conclusions

These results suggest that social and neighbourhood environments play an important role in mental health status. Intervention and policy initiatives that increase social capital may be viable for improving mental health among low-income urban, minority women.
Food insecurity and mental health: an analysis of routine primary care data of pregnant women in the Born in Bradford cohort
Authors: Power Madeleine , Uphoff Eleonora , Kelly Brian , Pickett Kate E
Published: October 2016

Background

Since 2008, use of food banks has risen sharply in the UK; however, evidence on the epidemiology of UK food insecurity is sparse. The aim of this study was to describe the trajectory of common mental disorder across the pre-pregnancy, pregnancy and postnatal period for food secure compared with food insecure women.

Methods

Data from the Born in Bradford (BiB) cohort, the nested BiB1000 study and primary care records were linked based on National Health Service (NHS) numbers. Data linkage was completed for 1297, and primary care records were available from 18 months prior to 40 months after birth of the cohort child. Incidence rates of common mental disorders per 1000 patient years at risk were compared between food secure and insecure women, and for Pakistani compared with white British women, in 10 6-month periods around pregnancy. Poisson regression was used to calculate incidence rate ratios, adjusted for ethnicity and exposure.

Results

Food insecurity was significantly associated with an increased risk of common mental disorder before and during pregnancy (incidence rate ratio 1.9, 95% confidence interval 1.3 to 2.8, p=0.001) and after giving birth (incidence rate ratio 1.3, 95% confidence interval 1.0 to 1.7, p=0.029).

Conclusions

Our study shows that food insecure women have worse mental health than food secure women, and that this difference is most pronounced for white British pregnant women. These findings provide evidence for concerns expressed by public health experts that food insecurity may become the next public health emergency.
Grace Under Pressure: a drama-based approach to tackling mistreatment of medical students
Authors: Scott Karen M , Berlec Špela , Nash Louise , Hooker Claire , Dwyer Paul , Macneill Paul , River Jo , Ivory Kimberley
Published: October 2016

A positive and respectful learning environment is fundamental to the development of professional identities in healthcare. Yet medical students report poor behaviour from healthcare professionals that contradict professionalism teaching. An interdisciplinary group designed and implemented a drama-based workshop series, based onapplied theatretechniques, to help students develop positive professional qualities and interpersonal skills to deal with challenges in the healthcare setting. We piloted the workshops at the University of Sydney in 2015. Attendees completed evaluation questionnaires and participated in a focus group or interview. Of 30 workshop attendances, there were 29 completed questionnaires and three participants attended a focus group or interview. Workshop activities were rated as ‘very good’ or ‘good’ by 21/22 (95.5%). Thematic analysis of qualitative data highlighted the rationale for participation (to deal with bullying, prevent becoming a bully, learn social skills), workshop benefits (express emotions, learn about status dynamics and deconstructing personalities, empathy, fun), challenges (meeting participants' expectations, participants' need for further practice) and implications for medical education (need to develop awareness of others' perspectives). Our research has shown that there is momentum to challenge mistreatment in medical education. While a multipronged approach is needed to generate systemic change, this pilot offers a positive and creative innovation. It helps students improve their interpersonal skills and sense of self to deal with challenges in the healthcare setting, including mistreatment.
A Mixed Signal DC Offset Cancellation for VGA of Zero-IF Receiver
Authors: Zhao Yiqiang , Wang Jingshuai , Sheng Yun
Published: October 2016

This paper proposes a mixed signal DC offset cancellation (DCOC) which does not cause the near-DC rejection for zero-IF receiver. To achieve low output offset efficiently, the DCOC consisting of a comparator, a digital logic controller and compensation voltage generators is used. It utilizes current sources arrays that are controlled by thermometer code to generate the compensation voltage. The proposed DCOC is implemented in GF 0.18 [Formula: see text]m CMOS process. The measurement results show that the proposed calibration method can reduce the offset residue to less than 80 mV and the total calibration time is less than 13 [Formula: see text]s. It only drains 60 [Formula: see text]A from a 3.3 V supply.
Modified Chaplygin gas equation of state on viscous dissipative extended holographic Ricci dark energy and the cosmological consequences
Authors: Chattopadhyay Surajit
Published: October 2016

The present paper reports a study on modified Chaplygin gas (MCG)-based reconstruction scheme for extended holographic Ricci dark energy (EHRDE) in the presence of viscous type dissipative term. The dissipative effect has been described by using Eckart approach. Under the assumption that the universe is filled with MCG–EHRDE under the influence of bulk viscosity we have studied the cosmological dynamics, where the bulk viscosity coefficient has been chosen in a particular time varying form [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are constant coefficients and [Formula: see text] is the Hubble parameter. Furthermore, we have reconstructed the potential and dynamics of viscous MCG–EHRDE as scalar field. Thereafter we have studied the statefinder trajectories to discern its departure from [Formula: see text] cold dark matter ([Formula: see text]CDM) and finally investigated validity of the generalized second law (GSL) of thermodynamics considering event horizon as the enveloping horizon of the universe.
Fuzzy-Based Multi-Agent System for Distributed Energy Management in Smart Grids
Authors: Radhakrishnan Bharat Menon , Srinivasan Dipti , Mehta Rahul
Published: October 2016

Energy Management Systems have become an imperative aspect of smart grids, owing to the enormous challenges imposed due to real-time pricing, distributed generation and integration of intermittent renewables. Due to the uncertainty associated with renewable sources and prominent fluctuations in the load demand, it is extremely important to maintain the overall energy balance in such grids. In this paper, the distributed energy management is achieved using a Multi-agent System which provides a flexible and reliable solution to control and manage smart grids. Adaptive fuzzy systems are designed to instill intelligent decision making capability in the agents of multi-agent system. When renewable sources are inadequate, the sustainability of the system is not guaranteed and multi-agent system is capable of deciding the mode of operation such that the system reliability and performance is not compromised. The proposed algorithm maintains power balance in the system and also sustains desired values for the State of Charge of storage units in order to guarantee extended battery life. The Energy management system also implements a cost optimization algorithm based on the Particle Swarm Optimization technique, to minimize operating costs and maximize profits earned by the grid. The proposed energy management algorithm is tested and validated on a practical test system which inherits most of the features of a small-scale smart grid.
Numerical Representation of Multiple Premature Failures in Steel-Plated RC Beams
Authors: Khan Mohammad Arsalan , El-Rimawi Jamal , Silberschmidt Vadim V.
Published: October 2016

Realizing the importance of widely used technique of plating for flexural retrofitting of reinforced concrete (RC) beams and its drawbacks due to premature failure(s), present work concentrates in developing a finite element tool model capable of successfully capturing multiple premature failure modes and their corresponding behaviors. The model is simple but focused; the capability and accuracy of the results have been validated through test literature, particularly focusing on the load capacities of beams at progressive stages of failure modes; which is from crack initiation through to complete failure, such as the load of crack initiation, first crack and complete failure. Acceptable accuracy is shown in terms of crack type(s), crack patterns, sequence, location and direction of propagation through the innovative use of cohesive zone model (CZM). The model clearly explains that debonding and peeling, although originating from a same location for most cases, are extensions of different types of cracks.
PRODUCT INNOVATION IN SMALL COMPANIES: MANAGING RESOURCE SCARCITY THROUGH FINANCIAL BOOTSTRAPPING
Authors: LÖFQVIST LARS
Published: October 2016

Researchers have proposed that scarce resources are the main factor hindering product innovation in small companies. However, despite scarce resources, small companies do innovate, so the research question is: How do small companies manage resource scarcity in product innovation? To answer the research question a multiple case study of three small established companies and their product innovation was used, including interviews and observations over a period of five months. The small companies were found to use many different bootstrapping methods in combination within their product innovation. The methods can be classified into three different functional categories: bootstrapping methods for increasing resources, for using existing resources more efficiently, and those for securing a fast payback on resources put into product innovation. Due to their resource scarcity, the studied companies also favoured an innovation strategy only involving new products done with known technology and targeting existing markets. This strategy seems to avoid unsuccessful innovation but at the same time exclude technologically radical innovation.
The Role of Fisheries in Optimal Eutrophication Management
Authors: Iho Antti , Ahtiainen Heini , Artell Janne , Heikinheimo Outi , Kauppila Pirkko , Kosenius Anna-Kaisa , Laukkanen Marita , Lindroos Marko , Oinonen Soile , Ollikka Kimmo , Parkkila Katja , Pavlova Yulia , Peltonen Heikki , Pouta Eija , Uusitalo Laura
Published: October 2016

We analyze dynamically optimal eutrophication management using two controls, targeted fishing and reduction of external nutrient loads. Fishing removes nutrients from the water ecosystem, and the size of the fish stock also influences eutrophication through food web effects and other mechanisms. We show that fisheries have a role to play in cost-efficient water quality management in combination with external load reductions. Our numerical application considers phosphorus driven eutrophication, agricultural phosphorus abatement and fisheries targeted on cyprinids on a coastal bay in the Baltic Sea. The socially and privately optimal intensity of fishing efforts, phosphorus abatement and the resulting water quality are influenced by damages, revenues and costs. Furthermore, we show that the link between cyprinid fish stock and water quality, and the form of the fishing industry — sole owner or open access — have joint dynamics that lead to very different outcomes. A weak link between cyprinid stock and water quality is associated with socially optimal stock close to its maximum sustainable yield. This maximizes phosphorus removal. With a strong link, socially optimal stock and phosphorus removal are low. Coincidentally, open-access fishing sometimes yields socially desirable outcome automatically — a market failure in industry structure may counteract eutrophication.
A System-on-Chip Solution for a Low Power Active Capsule Endoscope with Therapeutic Capabilities for Clip Application in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Alonso Oscar , Diéguez Angel , Schostek Sebastian , Schurr Marc O.
Published: October 2016

This paper addresses the circuit implementation challenges resulting from the integration of a therapeutic clip in a magnetically maneuverable wireless capsule intended for colonoscopy. To deal with the size constraints typical of a capsule endoscope, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) has been designed specifically to habilitate the release of the therapeutic clip. The ASIC is a complete System on Chip (SoC) that incorporates a circuit for the low power release of the clip, thus overcoming the limitations of the power supply system. With a size of 14[Formula: see text]mm2, the ASIC can be incorporated in practically any capsule endoscope, consuming only an idle-state power of 1.5[Formula: see text]mW.
Exploring the geology of the central Arctic Ocean; understanding the basin features in place and time
Authors: Coakley Bernard , Brumley Kelley , Lebedeva-Ivanova Nina , Mosher David
Published: October 2016

The history of the deep Arctic Ocean is largely unwritten. The means to understand this history may now be at hand. Bathymetry and potential field data have accumulated to the point it is possible to ask specific questions about the origins and evolution of the individual ridges and basins. The two primary basins have contrasting histories and deficits of understanding. The Eurasia Basin, formed during the Cenozoic, is well understood as far as the kinematics are concerned. The dynamics of ultraslow spreading, as observed on the Gakkel Ridge, are not well understood. It is widely thought that the Amerasia Basin formed during the Mesozoic. Most previous work has begun with a large-scale model of the basin tectonics and fit the ridges and basins it into this pattern. Enough is now known to establish the internal structure and relations from specific observations rather than a priori assumptions. This paper reviews knowledge about the central Arctic Ocean and proposes what should be done to develop a historical understanding of basin history. Ground truth from Arctic Ocean sediments is necessary. It will not be possible to establish the history of events, in geological time, until the sediments have been sampled and dated.
Relationships between bright amplitudes in overburden rocks and leakage from underlying reservoirs on the Norwegian Continental Shelf
Authors: Simmenes Trine Helle , Hermanrud Christian , Ersland Remi , Georgescu Lidia , Sollie Ole Christian Engdal
Published: October 2016

Identification of the locations where hydrocarbon traps leak is of significant practical importance, especially if the leakage controlled the present-day fluid contacts. We have investigated the fluid contacts of five structural traps offshore Norway that are dry or underfilled, and which have apparently had larger hydrocarbon columns in the past. The main focus of our work was to apply observations of bright amplitudes in overburden rocks in order to identify the most likely positions for vertical leakage, and to compare and contrast these observations from different parts of the Norwegian Continental Shelf.

It was seen that bright amplitudes were present in overburden rocks above likely leakage locations in all of the investigated structures. The bright amplitudes line up along fault planes in some of the traps and, in other cases, are clustered along fault intersections. The leakage-related brights were only noted in parts of the overburden sequences, presumably because most of the overburden rocks did not have sufficient permeability to host the gas quantities that are needed for seismic imaging. We conclude that analyses of overburden brights above likely leakage locations can contribute to improved prediction of hydrocarbon–water contacts in the subsurface.
Lifestyle and DNA base composition in polychaetes
Authors: Tarallo Andrea , Gambi Maria Cristina , D'Onofrio Giuseppe
Published: October 2016

A comparative analysis of polychaete species, classified as motile and low-motile forms, highlighted that the former were characterized not only by a higher metabolic rate (MR), but also by a higher genomic GC content. The fluctuation of both variables was not affected by the phylogenetic relationship of the species. Thus, present results further support that a very active lifestyle affects MR and GC at the same time, showing an unexpected similarity between invertebrates and vertebrates. In teleosts, indeed, a similar pattern has been also observed in comparisons of migratory and nonmigratory species. A cause-effect link between MR and GC has not yet been proved, but the fact that the two variables are significantly linked in all the organisms so far analyzed is, most probably, of relevant biological and evolutionary meaning. The present results fit very well within the frame of the metabolic rate hypothesis proposed to explain the DNA base composition variability among organisms. On the contrary, the thermostability hypothesis was not supported. At present, no data about the recombination rate in polychaetes were available to test the biased gene conversion (BGC hypothesis).
Linear Pursuit Differential Game under Phase Constraint on the State of Evader
Authors: Rakhmanov Askar , Ibragimov Gafurjan , Ferrara Massimiliano
Published: October 2016

We consider a linear pursuit differential game of one pursuer and one evader. Controls of the pursuer and evader are subjected to integral and geometric constraints, respectively. In addition, phase constraint is imposed on the state of evader, whereas pursuer moves throughout the space. We say that pursuit is completed, if inclusiony(t1)-x(t1)∈Mis satisfied at somet1>0, wherex(t)andy(t)are states of pursuer and evader, respectively, andMis terminal set. Conditions of completion of pursuit in the game from all initial points of players are obtained. Strategy of the pursuer is constructed so that the phase vector of the pursuer first is brought to a given set, and then pursuit is completed.
Carvacrol Alleviates Prostate Cancer Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion through Regulation of PI3K/Akt and MAPK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Luo Yun , Wu Jie-Ying , Lu Min-Hua , Shi Zhi , Na Ning , Di Jin-Ming
Published: October 2016

TRPM7 is a potential therapeutic target for treatment of prostate cancer. In this study, we investigated the effects of nonselective TRPM7 inhibitor carvacrol on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of prostate cancer PC‐3 and DU145 cells. Our results showed that carvacrol blocked TRPM7‐like currents in PC‐3 and DU145 cells and reduced their proliferation, migration, and invasion. Moreover, carvacrol treatment significantly decreased MMP‐2, p‐Akt, and p‐ERK1/2 protein expression and inhibited F‐actin reorganization. Furthermore, consistently, TRPM7 knockdown reduced prostate cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion as well. Our study suggests that carvacrol may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of prostate cancer through its inhibition of TRPM7 channels and suppression of PI3K/Akt and MAPK signaling pathways.
Successful Treatment of Disseminated Bacillus Calmette-Guérin Disease in an HIV-Infected Child with a Linezolid-Containing Regimen
Authors: Roglić Srđan , Dickson Drusia , Miše Branko , Višković Klaudija , Katalinić-Janković Vera , Rutherford George , Begovac Josip
Published: October 2016

Upon HIV infection diagnosis, an 8-month-old boy was transferred for evaluation of worsening respiratory distress requiring mechanical ventilation.Pneumocystis jiroveciipneumonia (PCP) was diagnosed; the boy also had a nonhealing ulcer at the site of vaccination with Statens Serum Institut (Danish strain) Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine and associated axillary lymphadenopathy. PCP treatment resulted in weaning from mechanical ventilation. Antimycobacterial treatment was immediately attempted but was discontinued because of hepatotoxicity. Over several months, he developed splenic lesions and then disseminated skin and cystic bone lesions.M. boviswas repeatedly cultured from both skin and bone lesions despite various multidrug antimycobacterial regimens which included linezolid. Eventually, treatment with a regimen of rifabutin, isoniazid, ethambutol, and linezolid led to definitive cure. Clinicians should consider a linezolid-containing regimen for treatment of severe disseminated BCG infection, especially if other drug regimens have failed. Although drug toxicity is a particular concern for young children, this patient received linezolid for 13 months without serious toxicity. This case also highlights the need for universal screening among pregnant women to prevent vertical transmission of HIV. Finally, routine immunization with BCG vaccine at birth should be questioned in countries with low and declining burden of tuberculosis.
Effectiveness of Acupressure on the Taichong Acupoint in Lowering Blood Pressure in Patients with Hypertension: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Lin Gan-Hon , Chang Wei-Chun , Chen Kuan-Ju , Tsai Chen-Chen , Hu Sung-Yuan , Chen Li-Li
Published: October 2016

Objectives. To evaluate the effectiveness of acupressure on the Taichong acupoint in lowering systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) in hypertensive patients. Methods. Eighty patients with hypertension attending a cardiology outpatient department in central Taiwan were included in this randomized clinical trial. Acupressure was applied to the Taichong acupoint in the experimental group (n = 40) and to the first metatarsal (sham acupoint) in the control group (n = 40). Blood pressure was measured by electronic monitoring before and immediately 15 min and 30 min after acupressure. Results. The average age of the experimental and control participants was 59.3 ± 9.2 years and 62.7 ± 8.4 years, respectively. The two groups were similar for demographics and antihypertensive drug use. Mean systolic and diastolic BP in the experimental group decreased at 0, 15, and 30 min after acupressure (165.0/96.3, 150.4/92.7, 145.7/90.8, and 142.9/88.6 mmHg); no significant changes occurred in the control group. There was a significant difference in systolic and diastolic BP between the experimental and control groups immediately and 15 and 30 min after acupressure (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Acupressure on the Taichong acupoint can lower BP in hypertensive patients and may be included in the nursing care plan for hypertension. However, additional studies are needed to determine the optimal dosage, frequency, and long‐term effects of this therapy.
Clinical and Histological Evaluation of Direct Pulp Capping on Human Pulp Tissue Using a Dentin Adhesive System
Authors: Nowicka Alicja , Łagocka Ryta , Lipski Mariusz , Parafiniuk Mirosław , Grocholewicz Katarzyna , Sobolewska Ewa , Witek Agnieszka , Buczkowska-Radlińska Jadwiga
Published: October 2016

Objective. This study presents a clinical and histological evaluation of human pulp tissue responses after direct capping using a new dentin adhesive system. Methods. Twenty-eight caries-free third molar teeth scheduled for extraction were evaluated. The pulps of 22 teeth were mechanically exposed and randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: Single Bond Universal or calcium hydroxide. Another group of 6 teeth acted as the intact control group. The periapical response was assayed, and a clinical examination was performed. The teeth were extracted after 6 weeks, and a histological analysis was performed. The pulp status was assessed, and the thickness of the dentin bridge was measured and categorized using a histological scoring system. Results. The clinical phase was asymptomatic for Single Bond Universal patients. Patients in the calcium hydroxide group reported mild symptoms of pain, although the histological examination revealed that dentin bridges with or without limited pulpitis had begun forming in each tooth. The universal adhesive system exhibited nonsignificantly increased histological signs of pulpitis (P>0.05) and a significantly weaker thin mineralized tissue layer (P<0.001) compared with the calcium hydroxide group. Conclusion. The results suggest that Single Bond Universal is inappropriate for human pulp capping; however, further long-term studies are needed to determine the biocompatibility of this agent.
Pancytopenia in a Patient with Rendu-Osler-Weber Syndrome and Uncommon Vascular Abnormalities
Authors: Binello Nicolò , Gasbarrini Antonio , Gaetani Eleonora
Published: October 2016

Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome, or hereditary hemorrhagic teleangiectasia (HHT), is a rare autosomal dominant vascular disorder, characterized by multiple mucocutaneous teleangiectases with recurrent nasal and gastrointestinal bleedings and/or solid-organ arteriovenous shunts. We describe the first case to our knowledge of pancytopenia in a 53-year-old patient, with a known history of HHT and recurrent nasal and gastrointestinal bleedings, who was found to have a major splenic artery aneurysm and other uncommon vascular abnormalities. In the absence of other evident causes of pancytopenia, hypersplenism was diagnosed. The patient underwent coil embolization of the splenic artery aneurysm, followed by rapid and sustained increase of white blood cell and platelet count. Splenic artery aneurysms are extremely uncommon in HHT as only anecdotal cases have been reported to date. However, we believe that the aneurysm critically contributed to the progression of splenomegaly and the development of pancytopenia.
Detection and Management of Diabetes during Pregnancy in Low Resource Settings: Insights into Past and Present Clinical Practices
Authors: Utz Bettina , Delamou Alexandre , Belaid Loubna , De Brouwere Vincent
Published: October 2016

Background.Timely and adequate treatment is important to limit complications of diabetes affecting pregnancy, but there is a lack of knowledge on how these women are managed in low resource settings.Objective. To identify modalities of gestational diabetes detection and management in low and lower middle income countries.Methods. We conducted a scoping review of published literature and searched the databases PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and African Index Medicus. We included all articles published until April 24, 2016, containing information on clinical practices of detection and management of gestational diabetes irrespective of publication date or language.Results. We identified 23 articles mainly from Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The majority of studies were conducted in large tertiary care centers and hospital admission was reported in a third of publications. Ambulatory follow-up was generally done by weekly to fortnightly visits, whereas self-monitoring of blood glucose was not the norm. The cesarean section rate for pregnancies affected by diabetes ranged between 20% and 89%. Referral of newborns to special care units was common.Conclusion. The variety of reported provider practices underlines the importance of promoting latest consensus guidelines on GDM screening and management and the dissemination of information regarding their implementation.
Plasma Markers of Oxidative Stress in Patients with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in the Second and Third Trimester
Authors: Li Hongwei , Yin Qian , Li Ning , Ouyang Zhenbo , Zhong Mei
Published: October 2016

Objective.To determine plasma markers of oxidative stress during the second and third trimester of pregnancy in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).Study Design.We conducted a prospective nested case-control study involving 400 pregnant women, 22 of whom developed GDM. As control group, 30 normal pregnant women were chosen randomly. Plasma samples were analyzed for 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α(8-iso-PGF2α), advanced oxidative protein products (AOPPs), protein carbonyl (PCO), glutathione peroxidase-3 (GPX-3), and paraoxonase-1 (PON1) at 16–20 weeks, 24–28 weeks, and 32–36 weeks of gestation.Results.Compared to control subjects, the plasma levels of PCO, AOPPs, and 8-iso-PGF2αwere elevated at 16–20 weeks’ and 32–36 weeks’ gestation in GDM. There was no significant difference in PCO and 8-iso-PGF2αat 24–28 weeks in GDM. GPX-3 was statistically significantly increased at 16–20 weeks and 32–36 weeks in GDM. PON1 reduced in patients with GDM. No significant differences were found at 24–28 and 32–36 weeks between the GDM and control groups. In GDM, PCO, AOPPs, and 8-iso-PGF2αlevels were higher and GPX-3 and PON1 levels were lower in the second than the third trimester.Conclusion.Oxidation status increased in GDM, especially protein oxidation, which may contribute to the pathogenesis of GDM.
Exogenous Angiotensin I Metabolism in Aorta Isolated from Streptozotocin Treated Diabetic Rats
Authors: Wołkow P. P. , Bujak-Giżycka B. , Jawień J. , Olszanecki R. , Madej J. , Rutowski J. , Korbut R.
Published: October 2016

Purpose. Products of angiotensin (ANG) I metabolism may predispose to vascular complications of diabetes mellitus. Methods. Diabetes was induced with streptozotocin (75 mg/kg i.p.). Rat aorta fragments, isolated 4 weeks later, were pretreated with perindoprilat (3 μM), thiorphan (3 μM), or vehicle and incubated for 15 minutes with ANG I (1 μM). Products of ANG I metabolism through classical (ANG II, ANG III, and ANG IV) and alternative (ANG (1–9), ANG (1–7), and ANG (1–5)) pathways were measured in the buffer, using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results. Incubation with ANG I resulted in higher concentration of ANG II (P = 0.02, vehicle pretreatment) and lower of ANG (1–9) (P=0.048, perindoprilat pretreatment) in diabetes. Preference for the classical pathway is suggested by higher ANG III/ANG (1–7) ratios in vehicle (P=0.03), perindoprilat (P=0.02), and thiorphan pretreated (P=0.02) diabetic rat. Within the classical pathway, ratios of ANG IV/ANG II (P=0.01) and of ANG IV/ANG III (P=0.049), but not of ANG III/ANG II are lower in diabetes. Conclusions. Diabetes in rats led to preference toward deleterious (ANG II, ANG III) over protective (ANG IV, ANG (1–9), and ANG (1–7)) ANG I metabolites.
Effect of Xinjiang UyghurVernonia anthelminticaWilld Injection Treatment with Silicosis Fibrosis
Authors: Liu Guitao , Liu Yingjia , Jin Lu , Li Cuidong , Nie Liping , Wei Yanhua , Wang Wenyu , Xu Yuhong , Nusilaiti Nuziguli , Hua Ping , Li Xiujuan , Wang Xiaohua , Wei Wenlong , Wufuer Hamulati
Published: October 2016

Objective. To observe the curative effect of VAWI on Xinjiang Uygur patients with silicosis fibrosis.Methods. After we diagnosed the 40 patients with the first phase of silicosis, we randomly divided them into two groups: the basic treatment group (group A,n=20) and the VAWI group (group B,n=20). At the same time, we selected the age-matched healthy patients (n=20). We applied the combined protein chip with SELDI-TOF-MS to carry out the serum analysis. The data were analyzed throughout data preprocessing, difference in PEAK screening, hierarchical cluster analysis, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). We built decision tree model and predict the difference between the PEAK corresponding proteins.Results. The proteins peaks corresponding to name, predicted protein, and gene name were as follows: M2001_69, amyloid beta a4 protein, APP, and M2017_02, amyloid beta a4 protein, APP. The different expression of proteins in patients with silicosis was found before and after with VAWI treatment. The predicted proteins were as follows: M1982_50, amyloid beta a4 protein, APP; M3164_50, fibrinogen alpha chain frag, FGA; M3379_28, fibrinogen alpha chain frag, FGA; and so on.Conclusion. VAWI presented curative effect on patients with silicosis fibrosis via the alternation of proteins expression in serum.
Cross-Layer Control with Worst Case Delay Guarantees in Multihop Wireless Networks
Authors: Fan Shu , Zhao Honglin
Published: October 2016

The delay guarantee is a challenge to meet different real-time requirements in applications of backpressure-based wireless multihop networks, and therefore, researchers are interested in the possibility of providing bounded end-to-end delay. In this paper, a new cross-layer control algorithm with worst case delay guarantees is proposed. The utility maximization algorithm is developed using a Lyapunov optimization framework. Virtual queues that ensure the worst case delay of nondropped packets are designed. It is proved through rigorous theoretical analyses and verified by simulations that the time average overall utility achieved by the new algorithm can be arbitrarily close to the optimal solution with finite queue backlogs. The simulation results evaluated with Matlab show that the proposed algorithm achieves higher throughput utility with fewer data dropped compared with the existing work.
Antinormal Weighted Composition Operators
Authors: Kumar Dilip , Chandra Harish
Published: October 2016

Letl2=L2N,μ, whereNis set of all positive integers andμis the counting measure whoseσ-algebra is the power set ofN. In this paper, we obtain necessary and sufficient conditions for a weighted composition operator to be antinormal on the Hilbert spacel2. We also determine a class of antinormal weighted composition operators on Hardy spaceH2D.
Transient Increase of Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness after Vitrectomy with ILM Peeling for Idiopathic Macular Hole
Authors: Ohta Kouichi , Sato Atsuko , Senda Nami , Fukui Emi
Published: October 2016

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine the long-term changes in the circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness following macular hole surgery with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling combined with phacoemulsification.Methods. Thirty-eight eyes of 37 patients who had pars plana vitrectomy (n=36) between 2010 and 2014 were studied. The average thicknesses of the global and the six sectors of the RNFL were determined before and at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 (n=22) months (M) after the surgery by spectral-domain optical coherent tomography. The postoperative mean RNFL thickness at each time was compared to that before the surgery by pairedt-tests.Results. The RNFL of the operated eyes was significantly thicker at 1 month (1 M) and 3 M in all but the inferior-nasal sectors. The significant increase remained until 12 M in the superior-temporal and superior-nasal sectors. In addition, the RNFL was also significantly thicker in the temporal-inferior sector at 12 M based on the findings in 38 eyes.Conclusions. The postoperative RNFL was thicker in all but the nasal-inferior sector for at least 12 M after surgery. This prolonged increase of the RNFL thickness may indicate damage and mild edema of the RNFL.
Microcystin Biosynthesis andmcyAExpression in Geographically DistinctMicrocystisStrains under Different Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Boron Regimes
Authors: Srivastava Ankita , Ko So-Ra , Ahn Chi-Yong , Oh Hee-Mock , Ravi Alok Kumar , Asthana Ravi Kumar
Published: October 2016

Roles of nutrients and other environmental variables in development of cyanobacterial bloom and its toxicity are complex and not well understood. We have monitored the photoautotrophic growth, total microcystin concentration, and microcystins synthetase gene (mcyA) expression in lab-grown strains ofMicrocystisNIES 843 (reference strain), KW (Wangsong Reservoir, South Korea), and Durgakund (Varanasi, India) under different nutrient regimes (nitrogen, phosphorus, and boron). Higher level of nitrogen and boron resulted in increased growth (avg. 5 and 6.5 Chlamg/L, resp.), total microcystin concentrations (avg. 1.185 and 7.153 mg/L, resp.), andmcyAtranscript but its expression was not directly correlated with total microcystin concentrations in the target strains. Interestingly, Durgakund strain had much lower microcystin content and lacked microcystin-YR variant over NIES 843 and KW. It is inferred that microcystin concentration and its variants are strain specific. We have also examined the heterotrophic bacteria associated with cyanobacterial bloom in Durgakund Pond and Wangsong Reservoir which were found to be enriched in Alpha-, Beta-, and Gammaproteobacteria and that could influence the bloom dynamics.
Suppression of Supersonic Cavity Oscillations Using Pulsed Upstream Mass Injection
Authors: Li Weipeng
Published: October 2016

Pulsed upstream mass injection is examined to suppress supersonic cavity oscillations. The efficiency and physics of the noise control are investigated by large-eddy simulations of a turbulent flow (M∞=2.0,ReD=105) past a rectangular cavity with a length-to-depth ratio of 2. Results show that the pulsed mass injection behaves less effectively in reducing the cavity oscillations than the steady one. The primary reason is that the pulsed mass injection is ineffective in lifting up the cavity shear layer and in suppressing the turbulent fluctuations in the shear layer. It concluded that breakup of the large-scale vorticial structures into a smaller length scale reveals direct links existing between the large-scale vortices and the radiation of the cavity resonances.