bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
USING SIMULATION TO STUDY CUTTING FORCE IN BIOPSY NEEDLE INSERTION WITH BI-DIRECTIONAL ROTATION
Authors: YEN CHUN-JUNG , HUANG YU-AN , LIN CHI-LUN
Published: April 2019

The rotational motion has been utilized in several medical needle technologies to enhance the capability of cutting tissue. The needle rotation helps significantly reduce the tissue cutting force, which improves procedure outcome and pain. However, the needle rotation can also incur tissue winding that intensifies tissue damage, which results in complications of bleeding and hematoma. Some histological observations showed that bidirectional needle rotation could reduce the tissue damage caused by tissue winding. In this study, we established a cohesive surface based finite element model to evaluate the cutting force in needle insertion with unidirectional and bidirectional rotation. The simulation results suggested that the frequency of switching direction of needle rotation insignificantly influences the cutting force. The Latin Hypercube method was used to generate a response surface of cutting force and locate the minimum at the insertion speed of 1[Formula: see text]mm/s combined with the slice/push ratio of 1.9. In clinical use, we suggested that the needle speeds can be first selected to optimize the cutting force according to the type of target tissue. If the desired needle rotation is high, a proper switching frequency can be applied to reduce the tissue winding damage without increasing the cutting force.
EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT LATERAL FEMORAL WALL THICKNESSES IN INTERTROCHANTERIC HIP FRACTURE TREATED WITH DYNAMIC HIP SCREW
Authors: WANG CHENG-CHI , LEE CHENG-HUNG , CHEN KUN-HUI , PAN CHIEN-CHOU , SU KUO-CHIH
Published: April 2019

Dynamic hip screw (DHS) is commonly used for stable-type intertrochanteric hip fractures. The importance of lateral femoral wall has been mentioned while treating intertrochanteric hip fractures with DHS. The aim of this study was mainly to investigate the biomechanical effect of different thickness of lateral femoral wall using finite element analysis (FEA). This study constructed FEA simulation models for five different lateral femoral wall thicknesses, and demonstrated the stress distribution on the femoral bone, the cortical screws, the cancellous bone around the lag screw, and the lag screw. The main results showed that when the DHS is implanted, less stress will be distributed at the implantation site on the femur due to the stress-shielding effect. The stress on the cortical screws will be greater at the junction of the cortical screws and the cortical bone. Intertrochanteric hip fractures with a thinner lateral wall thickness may cause higher stress on the femur after DHS is implanted.
Archean granitoids: classification, petrology, geochemistry and origin
Authors: Moyen Jean-François
Published: April 2019

This paper describes the petrology, geochemistry and petrogenesis of Archean granitoids. Archean granites define a continuum of compositions between several end members: (i) magmas that originated by partial melting of a range of crustal sources, from amphibolites to metasediments (‘C-type’ granitoids); and (ii) magmas that formed by partial melting of an enriched mantle source, the most common agent of enrichment being felsic (TTG) melts. Differences in the degree of metasomatism results in different primitive liquids for these ‘M-type’ granitoids.

Mixed sources, differentiation and interactions between different melts resulted in a continuous range of compositions, defined by variable proportions of each end member.

During the Archean, evolved crustal sources (sediments or felsic crust) and metasomatized mantle sources become increasingly more important, mirroring the progressive maturation of crustal segments and the stabilization of the global tectonic system.
Pricing of Proactive Hedging European Option with Dynamic Discrete Position Strategy
Authors: Li Meng , Wang Xuefeng , Sun Fangfang
Published: April 2019

Proactive hedging European option is an exotic option for hedgers in the options market proposed recently by Wang et al. It extends the classical European option by requiring option holders to continuously trade in underlying assets according to a predesigned trading strategy, to proactively hedge part of the potential risk from underlying asset price changes. To generalize this option design for practical application, in this study, a proactive hedging option with discrete trading strategy is developed and its pricing formula is deducted assuming the underlying asset price follows Geometric Fractional Brownian Motion. Simulation studies show that proactive hedging option with discrete trading strategy still enjoys strong price advantage compared to the classical European option for majority of parameter space. The observed price advantage is stronger when the underlying asset has more volatility or when the asset price follows closer to Geometric Brownian Motion. Additionally, we found that a higher frequency trading strategy has stronger price advantage if there is no trading cost. The findings in this research strongly facilitate the practical application of the proactive hedging option, making this lower-cost trading tool more feasible.
Assessment of the Status of Awareness, Ownership, and Usage of Long-Lasting Insecticide Treated Nets after Mass Distribution in Ekiti State, Nigeria
Authors: Omonijo Adetunji , Omonijo Adejumoke O.
Published: April 2019

Vector control with long-lasting insecticide treated nets (LLINs) has been identified as a major component of malaria prevention and control. The study examined present status of awareness, ownership, and utilization of LLINs in malaria high-risk areas of Ekiti State, Nigeria. Data were obtained from 352 copies of semistructured interviewer-guided questionnaire distributed to participants of each household in the four Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Ekiti State, where malaria is endemic after mass distribution of LLINs. Findings in this study showed that awareness was high (91.8%) in the Local Government Areas (LGAs) with mass media contributing largely (44.3%) to awareness. Also, LLINs ownership was found to be high (71.3%) with 72.9% of the nets being supplied by the government. Of the owners of LLINs, usage rate was observed to be 67.6%. Multivariate analysis result showed that statistically significant sociodemographic characteristics of respondents predicting the usage of LLINs included age greater than 50 years (p value = 0.008), female gender (χ2 = 8.2014, p value = 0.004), being married (χ2 = 24.721, p value <0.001), civil servants (χ2 = 12.739, p value = 0.005), and average income above poverty line (χ2 = 13.576, p value = 0.004). The study concluded that although not all households surveyed owned LLINs, nevertheless, the level of usage of LLINs among net-owning households was high. The study recommended continuous free distribution, periodic household survey, and expanding public knowledge on the benefits of LLINs usage especially through social media.
Investigating Flexural Behaviour of Prestressed Concrete Girders Cast by Fibre‐Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Rashid Muhammad U. , Qureshi Liaqat A. , Tahir Muhammad F.
Published: April 2019

The main objective of this research was to investigate the effect of adding polypropylene and steel fibres on flexural behaviour of prestressed concrete girders. Although the construction industry is frequently using prestressed concrete to increase the load‐carrying capacity of structures, it can be further enhanced by using fibres. In this paper, experimental work was carried out to encourage the construction industry in utilizing fibres in prestressed concrete members to improve the mechanical properties of these members. As past investigations on fibre‐reinforced prestressed beams were limited, the present work was done on small‐scale fibre‐reinforced I‐shaped prestressed concrete girders. Six small‐scale prestressed concrete girders were cast comprising a control girder, a hybrid girder, two girders with varying percentages of steel fibres, and two girders with varying percentages of polypropylene fibres. These girders were tested by centre point loading up to failure. It was concluded that, by the addition of small volume fraction of fibres, not only the ductility but also the tensile strength and flexural strength of FRC girders could be improved. It also altered the failure pattern positively by enhancing large strains in concrete and steel. Steel fibre‐reinforced concrete showed higher energy absorption and deflection at ultimate loads in comparison to other specimens.
Interfering Expression of Chimeric Transcript SEPT7P2-PSPH Promotes Cell Proliferation in Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Jing , Xie Guo-Feng , He Yuan , Deng Ling , Long Ya-Kang , Yang Xin-Hua , Ma Jiang-Jun , Gong Rui , Cen Wen-Jian , Ye Zu-Lu , Zeng Yi-Xin , Wang Hai-Yun , Shao Jian-Yong
Published: April 2019

Introduction. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a distinct type of head and neck cancer which is mostly prevalent in southern China. The development of NPC involves accumulation of multiple genetic changes. Chromosomal translocation is always thought to be accompanied with the fusion chimeric products. To data, the role of the fusion chimeric transcript remains obscure. Materials and Methods. We performed RNA sequencing to detect the fusion genes in ten NPC tissues. Sanger sequencing and quantitative RT-PCR were used to measure the level of the fusion chimeric transcript in NPC tissues and cell lines. The functional experiments such as CCK8 assay, colony formation, and migration/invasion were conducted to analyze the role of this transcript in NPC in vitro. Results. We demonstrated that the chimeric transcript SEPT7P2-PSPH was formed by trans-splicing of adjacent genes in the absence of chromosomal rearrangement and observed in both NPC patients and cell lines in parallel. Low-expression of the SEPT7P2-PSPH chimeric transcript induced the protein expression of PSPH and promoted cell proliferation, metastasis/invasion, and transforming ability in vitro. Conclusions. Our findings indicate that the chimeric transcript SEPT7P2-PSPH is a product of trans-splicing of two adjacent genes and might be a tumor suppressor gene, potentially having the role of anticancer activity.
In-Situ Analysis of Essential Fragrant Oils Using a Portable Mass Spectrometer
Authors: Jjunju Fred P. M. , Giannoukos Stamatios , Marshall Alan , Taylor Stephen
Published: April 2019

A portable mass spectrometer was coupled to a direct inlet membrane (DIM) probe and applied to the direct analysis of active fragrant compounds (3-methylbutyl acetate, 2-methyl-3-furanthiol, methyl butanoate, and ethyl methyl sulfide) in real time. These fragrant active compounds are commonly used in the formulation of flavours and fragrances. Results obtained show that the portable mass spectrometer with a direct membrane inlet can be used to detect traces of the active fragrant compounds in complex mixtures such as essential fragrant oils and this represents a novel in-situ analysis methodology. Limits of detection (LOD) in the sub-ppb range (< 2.5 pg) are demonstrated. Standard samples in the gaseous phase presented very good linearity with RSD % at 5 to 7 for the selected active fragrant compounds (i.e., isoamyl acetate, 2-methyl-3-furanthiol, methyl butanoate, and methyl ethyl sulphide). The rise and fall times of the DIM probe are in the ranges from 15 to 31 seconds and 23 to 41 seconds, respectively, for the standard model compounds analysed. The identities of the fragrance active compounds in essential oil samples (i.e., banana, tangerine, papaya, and blueberry muffin) were first identified by comparison with a standard fragrance compounds mixture using their major fragment peaks, the NIST standard reference library, and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. No sample preparation is required for analysis using a portable mass spectrometer coupled to a DIM probe, so the cycle time from ambient air sampling to the acquisition of the results is at least 65 seconds.
Lung Function Abnormalities in Sickle Cell Anaemia
Authors: Dei-Adomakoh Yvonne A. , Afriyie-Mensah Jane S. , Forson Audrey , Adadey Martin , Ndanu Thomas A. , Acquaye Joseph K.
Published: April 2019

Background. Abnormalities in lung function tests have been shown to commonly occur in a majority of patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) even at steady state. The prevalence and pattern of these lung function abnormalities have been described in other populations but this is unknown among our sickle cell cohort. There is generally little information available on risk factors associated with the lung function abnormalities and its relevance in patient care. Method. This was an analytical cross-sectional study involving 76 clinically stable, hydroxyurea-naive adult Hb-SS participants and 76 nonsickle cell disease (non-SCD) controls. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain sociodemographic data and clinical history of the participants. Investigations performed included spirometry, pulse oximetry, tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity (TRV) measurements via echocardiogram, complete blood counts, free plasma haemoglobin, serum urea, and creatinine. Results. Weight, BMI, mean FVC, and FEV1% predicted values were comparatively lower among the Hb-SS patients (p < 0.001). Abnormal spirometry outcome occurred in 70.4% of Hb-SS patients, predominantly restrictive defects (p < 0.001), and showed no significant association with steady-state Hb, WBC count, free plasma haemoglobin, frequency of sickling crisis, chronic leg ulcers, and TRV measurements (p > 0.05). The mean oxygen saturation was comparatively lower among Hb-SS patients (p < 0.001). Conclusion. Measured lung volumes were significantly lower in Hb-SS patients when compared to non-SCD controls and this difference was not influenced by anthropometric variance. Lung function abnormalities, particularly restrictive defects, are prevalent in Hb-SS patients but showed no significant association with recognized markers of disease severity.
Simultaneous Adalimumab and Antitubercular Treatment for Latent Tubercular Infection: An Experience from Nepal
Authors: Vaidya Binit , Nakarmi Shweta
Published: April 2019

Introduction. In Nepal, adalimumab is the most common agent being used, but in a disease activity-based dose tapering to address the economic constraints. Another constraint is the high risk of reactivation of tuberculosis in countries with high burden, especially with the use of tumor necrosis factor blocking agents. Though there are recommendations for screening and treatment of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) before using adalimumab, data is not clear regarding the appropriate screening schedule and the timing of initiation of biologic therapy. Methodology. This retrospective review of prospectively followed cohort of spondyloarthropathy patients aimed to evaluate the efficacy of simultaneous initiation of adalimumab with LTBI treatment. Patients fulfilling either the modified New York criteria for ankylosing spondylitis or Assessment in SpondyloArthritis international Society criteria and who were refractory to oral treatment were screened with Mantoux (≥10mm) and interferon gamma release assay (QuantiFERON) to detected LTBI. Those who tested positive were started on rifampicin/isoniazid combination for 3 months and adalimumab treatment on the same day. The patients were followed up at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 12 weeks, and then every 3 months for 2 years. Results. Out of 784 patients diagnosed, 92 were receiving adalimumab. LTBI was detected by positivity of either Mantoux or QuantiFERON in 29.3% patients. None of the patients with LTBI who were started on the 2 drug regime simultaneous with adalimumab developed activation of tuberculosis. However, two patients testing negative for both the tests developed tubercular pleural effusion during treatment. Conclusions. Our findings indicate that screening for LTBI should be more frequent in patients from high tuberculosis burden countries; treatment of LTBI with rifampicin/isoniazid combination for 3 months is effective in preventing reactivation even when adalimumab is started simultaneously.
Synthesis of Magnetic Biochar for Efficient Removal of Cr(III) Cations from the Aqueous Medium
Authors: Frolova Liliya , Kharytonov Mykola
Published: April 2019

Porous biochars obtained from coniferous woods, and magnetic biochars based on them, which showed high sorption properties when extracting Cr(III) from aqueous solutions (from 0.005 to 0.0125 mol/L), were studied. The adsorption properties of the magnetic biochar are compared with the initial biochar. It has been established that the preparation of materials by the method of pyrolysis and subsequent treatment in a plasma reactor makes it possible to bring the samples under study into a number of promising adsorbents for the extraction of chromium from aqueous solutions.
The Treatment of Oesophageal Perforation after Anterior Cervical Spinal Surgery
Authors: Hu Li-Sheng , Wu Zhen-Quan , Zou Li-Min , Huang Yong-Can
Published: April 2019

Oesophageal perforation is a rare complication occurring during or after cervical spine surgery, and the risk factors are not well understood. This study presents a case of a 25-year-old man with oesophageal perforation after anterior cervical spine surgery. It is suggested that four factors (anatomical structure, mechanism of trauma, implant dislodgment, and the operation) could induce postoperative oesophageal perforation after cervical spine surgery performed using the anterior surgical approach. A comprehensive understanding and early management of this complication are necessary for successful therapy.
Studies on the RC Beam Strengthened by Using the Exterior‐Wrapping U‐Shaped Steel Plate and Its Application
Authors: Zhou Chunli , Sun Jinkun , Zeng Zhaorong , Liu Jie
Published: April 2019

Based on practical frame structures, constructional methods of the reinforced concrete (RC) frame beam strengthened by using an exterior‐wrapping U‐shaped steel plate are introduced. With reference to the code for design of strengthening concrete structure, the bearing capacity formula of the RC frame beams strengthened by using the exterior‐wrapping U‐shaped steel plate is briefly derived. After that, the finite element analysis of the frame beam before and after the reinforcement of the engineering example is carried out through ABAQUS software, and the results of the analysis of the bearing capacity are compared with the calculation results of the theoretical formula. At the same time, through comparing and analysing the U‐shaped steel plate strengthening method and the “angle steel + batten plate” strengthening method, the result that the RC beam strengthened by using the exterior‐wrapping U‐shaped steel plate has better mechanical performance is drawn. Finally, the application of the exterior‐wrapping U‐shaped steel plate strengthening method is rationally suggested.
Methicillin- and Inducible Clindamycin-ResistantStaphylococcus aureusamong Patients with Wound Infection Attending Arba Minch Hospital, South Ethiopia
Authors: Mama Mohammedaman , Aklilu Addis , Misgna Kassahun , Tadesse Molla , Alemayehu Eyerusalem
Published: April 2019

Background. Wound infection is one of the most common hospital-acquired infections. Different bacteria cause infection, of whichStaphylococcus aureusis one of the known bacteria in causing infection with increased drug-resistant isolates.Objective. To assess the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of methicillin and inducible clindamycin-resistantStaphylococcus aureusamong patients with wound infections attending Arba Minch Hospital.Methods. A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2017. A pretested questionnaire was used to collect demographic data and clinical characteristics. Wound swabs were cultured and identified by standard techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed by the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method. Methicillin resistance was detected using the cefoxitin (30 μg) antibiotic disc while inducible clindamycin resistance was detected by the D-zone test. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science, version 20.pvalue <0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results. A total of 161 patients were enrolled and a majority of them were female (90, 50.9%). Among the collected samples, 79 (49.7%) were positive forS. aureus; of this, methicillin resistance accounted for 65 (82.3%). Out of 22 (27.8%) erythromycin-resistant isolates, 19 (24.1%) showed inducible clindamycin resistance. Methicillin-resistantS. aureusshowed higher resistance against tetracycline (72.3%) followed by cotrimoxazole (43.1%) and 100% sensitivity to vancomycin. The overall prevalence of inducible clindamycin resistance among methicillin-resistant isolates was 16 (24.6%).Conclusion. The increasing prevalence of methicillin-resistantS. aureusand the coresistance against other therapeutic options like clindamycin is becoming an obstacle in the treatment of infections which need attention from concerned bodies.
Numerical Approximation of the Space Fractional Cahn‐Hilliard Equation
Authors: Weng Zhifeng , Huang Langyang , Wu Rong
Published: April 2019

In this paper, a second‐order accurate (in time) energy stable Fourier spectral scheme for the fractional‐in‐space Cahn‐Hilliard (CH) equation is considered. The time is discretized by the implicit backward differentiation formula (BDF), along with a linear stabilized term which represents a second‐order Douglas‐Dupont‐type regularization. The semidiscrete schemes are shown to be energy stable and to be mass conservative. Then we further use Fourier‐spectral methods to discretize the space. Some numerical examples are included to testify the effectiveness of our proposed method. In addition, it shows that the fractional order controls the thickness and the lifetime of the interface, which is typically diffusive in integer order case.
Role of Probiotics in Helicobacter pylori Eradication: Lessons from a Study of Lactobacillus reuteri Strains DSM 17938 and ATCC PTA 6475 (Gastrus®) and a Proton-Pump Inhibitor
Authors: Dore Maria Pina , Bibbò Stefano , Pes Giovanni Mario , Francavilla Ruggero , Graham David Y.
Published: April 2019

Background. Meta-analyses involving >4000 subjects with probiotics added to antimicrobial Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy have reported a mean increase in the eradication rate of 12 to 14%. It is unclear how to translate that result into clinical practice. Aim. To evaluate whether administration of Lactobacillus reuteri plus a PPI without antibiotics would eradicate H. pylori infections. Methods. This was a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized 2-site study of L. reuteri (Gastrus®) at a dose of 2 × 108 CFU, 7 times per day, or matching placebo plus 20 mg pantoprazole b.i.d. for 4 weeks. Cure was defined by negative 13C-UBT, 4 weeks after therapy. Sample size required ≥50% cure rates for using probiotics as a clinically useful monotherapy. Results. Recruitment was halted after 56 subjects because of the low cure rate; there were 8 dropouts; 48 subjects completed therapy (71% women, average age 49 years). The cure rates per protocol were 3/24 (12.5%; 95% CI 2.6–32%) with L. reuteri vs. 1/24 (4.1%) with placebo. Side effects (most often diarrhea) occurred infrequently (in 5/28 vs. 3/28; active vs. placebo therapy) (P=0.53). Conclusion. L. reuteri plus a PPI therapy was unable to provide a clinically important rate of H. pylori eradication. The cure rate albeit low (12.5%) was essentially identical to that achieved when probiotics were added to antibiotic therapy. The incremental improvement was additive and independent of antimicrobial resistance or antibiotics use. Probiotics can reliably increase the cure rate to ≥90% only in regimens achieving cure rates of ∼80%. This trial is registered with NCT03404440.
Urinary TIMP2 and IGFBP7 Identifies High Risk Patients of Short-Term Progression from Mild and Moderate to Severe Acute Kidney Injury during Septic Shock: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Maizel Julien , Daubin Delphine , Vong Ly Van , Titeca-Beauport Dimitri , Wetzstein Morgane , Kontar Loay , Slama Michel , Klouche Kada , Vinsonneau Christophe
Published: April 2019

Background. To examine whether the new urinary biomarkers TIMP2 and IGFBP7 can predict progression within 24 hours and 72 hours from mild and moderate (KDIGO 1 or 2) to severe (KDIGO 3) AKI in patients with septic shock. Methods. A prospective, multicenter observational study performed in three French ICUs. The urinary biomarkers TIMP2∗IGFBP7 were analyzed at the early phase (<6 hours) of patients admitted for septic shock with mild and moderate AKI. Results. Among the 112 patients included, 45 (40%) progressed to the KDIGO 3 level 24 hours after inclusion (KDIGO 3 H24) and 47 (42%) 72 hours after inclusion (KDIGO 3 H72). The median urinary TIMP2∗IGFBP7 at inclusion (baseline) were higher in the KDIGO 3 group than in the KDIGO<3 group at H24 and H72. All covariates with a p value < 0.1 in the univariate analysis were included in stepwise multiple logistic regression models to identify factors independently associated with the risk of KDIGO 3 at H24 and H72. TIMP2∗IGFBP7 remained independently associated with KDIGO 3 at H24 and H72. Baseline posology of norepinephrine, baseline urine output, and baseline serum creatinine remained also significantly associated with progression to KDIGO 3 at H24. Baseline TIMP2∗IGFBP7 and baseline urinary output had the best AUC ROC. A baseline TIMP2∗IGFBP7>2.0 (ng/ml)2/1,000 identified the population at high risk of KDIGO 3 H24 (relative risk 4.19 (1.7-10.4)) with a sensitivity of 76% (60-87) and a specificity of 81% (69-89). But the diagnostic performance at H72 of baseline TIMP2∗IGFBP7 was poor (AUC: 0.69 (0.59-0.77)). Conclusion. The urinary TIMP2∗IGFBP7 concentration and the urine output at the early phase of septic shock are independent factors to identify the population at high risk of progression from mild and moderate to severe AKI over the next 24 but not 72 hours. A TIMP2∗IGFBP7 concentration>2.0 (ng/ml)2/1,000 quadruples the risk of KDIGO 3 AKI within 24 hours. This trial is registered with (NCT03547414).
Oral Submucous Fibrosis in Pediatric Patients: A Systematic Review and Protocol for Management
Authors: Jain Anuj , Taneja Saumya
Published: April 2019

Aim. To conduct a systematic review evaluating the cases of oral submucous fibrosis in pediatric patients. Material and Method. Systematic review was conducted using PRISMA guidelines. The article focused on oral submucous fibrosis in pediatric patients were included. A total of five manuscripts were included in our systematic review. The prevalence of OSMF in pediatric patients, gender distribution, causes, and clinical presentation were reviewed. Results. On systematically reviewing, a total of 10 cases of OSMF in pediatric patients were found. The youngest patient reported to be diagnosed with OSMF was of 2.5 years of age. Female preponderance was noticed. All the patients had the habit of areca nut chewing which subsequently led to fibrosis. Conclusion. Such a rapid increase in the rate of OSMF among pediatric population is a potential danger to the society. The habit of areca nut chewing is the major cause for this dreadful condition. Lack of health consciousness and low level of education are the major factors for initiation of this habit among children. Therefore it is imperative for the parents and school as well as government authorities to take serious actions.
A Novel Analysis via Micro-CT Imaging Indicates That Chemically Modified Tetracycline-3 (CMT-3) Inhibits Tooth Relapse after Orthodontic Movement: A Pilot Experimental Study
Authors: Vieira Giovanni Modesto , Falcao Denise Pinheiro , Queiroz Sormani Bento Fernandes de , Lima Valthierre Nunes de , Bentes de Azevedo Ricardo , Tiziane Valdenize , Moreno Heitor , Amorim Rivadavio
Published: April 2019

Objective. To evaluate the effect of chemically modified tetracycline-3 (CMT-3) and simvastatin on tooth relapse after orthodontic movement in rats using a novel analysis method employing high-resolution micro-CT (Micro-CT) images. In addition, the correlation between bone density and orthodontic relapse was also evaluated for each experimental group. Methods. Forty adult male Wistar rats had stainless steel springs installed on their left upper first molars in order to generate tooth movement for 18 days. After this initial period, the animals were divided into three groups: (1) 30 mg/kg of CMT-3; (2) 5 mg/kg of simvastatin; and (3) 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose, and each group was treated for 20 days. Micro-CT images were analyzed (conventional method and 3D reconstruction) on the 7th and 18th days following spring fixation and finally, 20 days after treatment either with CMT-3 or simvastatin (38th day). Bone mineral density (BMD) of the mesial and distal roots of the upper first molar was also analyzed. Results. The difference was statistically significant between the groups as to recurrence (p=0.048), and the post hoc test identified the value of p=0.007 between the control group and the CMT-3 group. Simvastatin was not able to inhibit tooth relapse. The bone mineral densities of both the mesial and distal roots were different between the three groups, after the 20th day of drug use (p=0001 and p<0001). Conclusion. Our findings support the initial evidence that CMT-3 is able to prevent relapse after tooth movement. Future trials in humans should evaluate such treatment as a promising approach to preventing this common phenomenon. Clinical Relevance. Considering the results obtained, CMT-3 can be used to avoid relapse after tooth movement.
Safety Assessment of Ubiquinol Acetate: Subchronic Toxicity and Genotoxicity Studies
Authors: Deshmukh Gajanan , Venkataramaiah Suresh B. , Doreswamy Chandrashekar M. , Umesh Mohan C. , Subbanna Rajesh B. , Pradhan Bikram K. , Seekallu Srinivas , Sekar Rajan , Prabhu Karthick , Sadagopan Sathish , Arumugam Shri Natrajan , Sharma Satish , Gavara Govindarajulu , Balaraman Selvakumar , Sambasivam Ganesh , Chandrappa Ravindra K. , Flynn Sarah , Shivarudraiah Prasad
Published: April 2019

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a lipid soluble, endogenous antioxidant present at highest levels in the heart followed by the kidney and liver. The reduced CoQ10 ubiquinol is well known for its chemical instability and low bioavailability. The present study was designed to synthesize ubiquinol acetate, which is more stable and biologically active, and further evaluate its safety and genotoxic potential. Synthesized ubiquinol acetate showed better stability than that of ubiquinol at the end of 3 months. In vitro genotoxicity studies (AMES test, in vitro micronucleus and chromosomal aberration) showed ubiquinol acetate as nongenotoxic with no clastogenic or aneugenic effects at high dose of 5000 and 62.5 μg/mL, respectively. In subchronic toxicity study, ubiquinol acetate was administered orally to Sprague Dawley rats at 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg/day for 90 days. No treatment related adverse effects were observed in males at 600 mg/kg/day; however, females showed treatment related increase in AST and ALT with small focal irregular white-yellow spots in liver on gross necropsy examination. Histopathological evaluation revealed hepatocellular necrosis in high dose females which was considered as adverse. Based on the results, the No-Observed-Adverse-Effect Level (NOAEL) of ubiquinol acetate in males and females was determined as 600 and 300 mg/kg/day, respectively.
How to Promote Workplace Health in order to Work into Old Age: Experiences from Employees in an Industrial Setting
Authors: Lydell Marie , Hildingh Cathrine , Söderbom Arne , Ziegert Kristina
Published: April 2019

Background. Health is important in workplaces. A good organisational climate in a workplace plays a major role in the employees’ well-being at work and is also associated with increased productivity. Today, employees are expected to work into older age and it is a challenge for companies to promote health and well-being for this growing group. Purpose. The purpose of this study was to explore how to promote workplace health at present time and for the end of working life in the perspective of employees. Design/Methodology/Approach. The study had an explorative design, and a thematic analysis was chosen. The inclusion criteria were persons 50 years and older, working in the company and planning to continue working into old age. A total of 21 coworkers (14 men) participated in the study. Three focus group interviews were conducted. Findings. The results from the focus group interviews are presented in four themes: handle change in a changeable workplace, take responsibility for health concerns, get confirmation for feeling needed, and support and tolerance adapted for each employee. Practical Implications. Promoting health should be an urgent mission for employees themselves as well as for managers in order to support employees in working into old age. The health promotion must be suitable for each employee and should be designed in such a way as to avoid inequality in workplace health. Originality/Value. There is a need for more health-promoting behaviours, support, and activities for employees in order to work into old age.
Titanium Alloy Repair with Wire-Feed Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing Technology
Authors: Wanjara P. , Watanabe K. , de Formanoir C. , Yang Q. , Bescond C. , Godet S. , Brochu M. , Nezaki K. , Gholipour J. , Patnaik P.
Published: April 2019

Wire feeding can be combined with different heat sources, for example, arc, laser, and electron beam, to enable additive manufacturing and repair of metallic materials. In the case of titanium alloys, the vacuum operational environment of electron beam systems prevents atmospheric contamination during high-temperature processing and ensures high performance and reliability of additively manufactured or repaired components. In the present work, the feasibility of developing a repair process that emulates refurbishing an “extensively eroded” fan blade leading edge using wire-feed electron beam additive manufacturing technology was examined. The integrity of the Ti6Al4V wall structure deposited on a 3 mm thick Ti6Al4V substrate was verified using X-ray microcomputed tomography with a three-dimensional reconstruction. To understand the geometrical distortion in the substrate, three-dimensional displacement mapping with digital image correlation was undertaken after refurbishment and postdeposition stress relief heat treatment. Other characteristics of the repair were examined by assessing the macro- and microstructure, residual stresses, microhardness, tensile and fatigue properties, and static and dynamic failure mechanisms.
Different Characteristics of Aquaporin-4 and Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody-Seropositive Male Optic Neuritis in China
Authors: Song Honglu , Zhou Huanfen , Yang Mo , Wang Junqing , Liu Hongjuan , Sun Mingming , Xu Quangang , Wei Shihui
Published: April 2019

Purpose. To describe different clinical characteristics and prognosis of optic neuritis (ON) in male patients with seropositive aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-Ab) or myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (MOG-Ab) in China. Method. Males with ON were recruited from the Neuro-ophthalmology Department of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, General Hospital from January 2016 to February 2018. They were assigned to two groups based on antibodies status: MOG-Ab-seropositive ON (MOG-ON) and aquaporin-4 Ab-seropositive ON (AQP4-ON). Results. Seventy-six male patients were assessed, including 44 MOG-ON (57.9%) and 32 AQP4-ON (42.1%). The MOG-ON patients were significantly younger at onset compared to the AQP4-ON group (p<0.001). Frequencies of optic disc swelling, presence of abnormal autoimmune antibodies, and elevated levels of CSF IgG were significantly higher in the AQP4-ON group than the MOG-ON group (p=0.040, p=0.016, and p=0.10, respectively). At the final visit, 85.3% of MOG-ON eyes had increased visual acuity (≥0.5) compared to 35.1% of AQP4-ON eyes (p<0.001). The ratio of this steroid-dependent condition is higher in MOG-ON patients than the AQP4-ON group (p<0.001). The ratio of conversion to NMO is higher in the AQP4-ON group than the MOG-ON group, with more AQP4-ON patients developing NMO by the follow-up (p=0.012). MOG-ON patients had thicker average peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layers and macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform than AQP4-ON patients (p=0.008 and p=0.012, respectively). Orbital MRI revealed more AQP4-ON patients had chiasmal involvement than MOG-ON patients (p<0.001). Conclusion. Male MOG-ON patients had different clinical features including earlier age of onset, higher optic disc swelling ratio, better visual acuity recovery, thicker peripapillary retinal nerve fiber and macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layers, and less chiasmal involvement than male AQP4-ON patients. Serum antibody may be a potential biomarker for determining visual prognosis in male ON.
The Role of Mitochondrial Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns in Chronic Neuroinflammation
Authors: Bajwa Ekta , Pointer Caitlin B. , Klegeris Andis
Published: April 2019

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been established as a common feature of neurodegenerative disorders that contributes to disease pathology by causing impaired cellular energy production. Mitochondrial molecules released into the extracellular space following neuronal damage or death may also play a role in these diseases by acting as signaling molecules called damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). Mitochondrial DAMPs have been shown to initiate proinflammatory immune responses from nonneuronal glial cells, including microglia and astrocytes; thereby, they have the potential to contribute to the chronic neuroinflammation present in these disorders accelerating the degeneration of neurons. In this review, we highlight the mitochondrial DAMPs cytochromec(CytC), mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), and cardiolipin and explore their potential role in the central nervous system disorders including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, which are characterized by neurodegeneration and chronic neuroinflammation.
Evaluation of the Efficiency of Interparticle Interactions in Nanosystems
Authors: Demchenko Hanna O. , Rusinchuk Natalia M.
Published: April 2019

Wide range of applications of nanoparticles causes the need to study their properties, and the influence of the interparticle interaction on the formation of the nanosystem properties is a well-known experimental phenomenon. The aim of this work is to study the influence of interparticle interactions on the properties of nanosystems theoretically. The influence of the interparticle interaction was simulated based on the near-field interaction potential and local field distribution. The local field distribution in the system was calculated using the Green function method and the concept of the effective susceptibility. The results show that interaction between nanoparticles can be neglected if the distance between them is bigger than the critical one. Expressions for evaluation of the efficiency of the interparticle coupling were proposed and compared with the existing experimental results. The results of the simulation are in good agreement with the measured values of the critical interparticle distance. The approach may be useful for simulation of interactions in the system of many nanoparticles and for engineering of nanostructures for different applications.
Development and Experimental Validation of Auxiliary Rolling Bearing Models for Active Magnetic Bearings (AMBs) Applications
Authors: Tangredi Anna , Meli Enrico , Rindi Andrea , Ridolfi Alessandro , D’Adamio Pierluca , Frilli Amedeo , Fioravanti Duccio , Defoy Benjamin
Published: April 2019

Nowadays, the search for increasing performances in turbomachinery applications has led to a growing utilization of active magnetic bearings (AMBs), which can bring a series of advantages thanks to their features: AMBs allow the machine components to reach higher peripheral speeds; in fact there are no wear and lubrication problems as the contact between bearing surfaces is absent. Furthermore, AMBs characteristic parameters can be controlled via software, optimizing machine dynamics performances. However, active magnetic bearings present some peculiarities, as they have lower load capacity than the most commonly used rolling and hydrodynamic bearings, and they need an energy source; for these reasons, in case of AMBs overload or breakdown, an auxiliary bearing system is required to support the rotor during such landing events. During the turbomachine design process, it is fundamental to appropriately choose the auxiliary bearing type and characteristics, because such components have to resist to the rotor impact; so, a supporting design tool based on accurate and efficient models of auxiliary bearings is very useful for the design integration of the Active Magnetic Bearing System into the machine. This paper presents an innovative model to accurately describe the mechanical behavior of a complete rotor-dynamic system composed of a rotor equipped with two auxiliary rolling bearings. The model, developed and experimentally validated in collaboration with Baker Hughes a GE company (providing the test case and the experimental data), is able to reproduce the key physical phenomena experimentally observed; in particular, the most critical phenomenon noted during repeated experimental combined landing tests is the rotor forward whirl, which occurs in case of high friction conditions and greatly influences the whole system behavior. In order to carefully study some special phenomena like rotor coast down on landing bearings (which requires long period of time to evolve and involves many bodies and degrees of freedom) or other particular events like impacts (which occur in a short period of time), a compromise between accuracy of the results and numerical efficiency has been pursued. Some of the elements of the proposed model have been previously introduced in literature; however the present work proposes some new features of interest. For example, the lateral and the axial models have been properly coupled in order to correctly reproduce the effects observed during the experimental tests and a very important system element, the landing bearing compliant suspension, has been properly modelled to more accurately describe its elastic and damping effects on the system. Furthermore, the model is also useful to characterize the frequencies related to the rotor forward whirl motion.
Oscillation for a Class of Right Fractional Differential Equations on the Right Half Line with Damping
Authors: Liu Hui , Xu Run
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we discuss a class of fractional differential equations of the form D-α+1y(t)·D-αy(t)-p(t)f(D-αy(t))+q(t)h∫t∞(s-t)-αy(s)ds=0.D-αy(t) is the Liouville right-sided fractional derivative of order α∈(0,1). We obtain some oscillation criteria for the equation by employing a generalized Riccati transformation technique. Some examples are given to illustrate the significance of our results.
Patient Satisfaction with Psychiatric Outpatient Care at University of Gondar Specialized Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Woldekidan Nigist Alemayehu , Gebresillassie Begashaw Melaku , Alem Rediet Hagos , Gezu Biruk Fentahun , Abdela Ousman Abubeker , Asrie Assefa Belay
Published: April 2019

Background. Patient satisfaction is an imperative and commonly used indicator for measuring the quality of healthcare. Patient satisfaction with psychiatry services is an important construct, which influences multiple areas including treatment adherence and outcome. The aim of the present study was to assess the level of patient satisfaction and determine associated factors with psychiatric outpatient care. Method. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 15 to May 15, 2017. A total of 250 psychiatric patients visiting psychiatric outpatient care in University of Gondar Specialized Hospital during the study period were included in the study. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and entered to and analyzed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA with post hoc test were used to determine the characteristics of the participants and examine the difference among different variables. P value<0.05 and confidence interval (CI) of 95% were used as cut-off points for determining statistical significance. Results. During the one-month data collection period, 250 participants (92.593% response rate) were included in the analysis. Majority (133 (53.2%)) of them were males and cannot read and write (107 (42.8%)). Majority (194 (77.6%)) of study participants were satisfied with the outpatient care. The overall level of satisfaction among participants was good with a mean satisfaction score of 3.87. Majority (173 (69.2%)) of the participants claimed that health professionals working in outpatient care did not provide adequate information about payment for services. Statistically significant satisfaction difference with respect to the psychiatric outpatient care was found in the type of mental illness (t=2.224, P=0.043) and the participants’ employment status (t=2.981, P=0.003). Conclusion. In general, the overall participants’ satisfaction towards outpatient care was high. Statistically significant satisfaction difference with respect to the psychiatric outpatient care was found in the type of mental illness and the participants’ employment status. Regular service evaluation is important to improve patient satisfaction and further research is needed to investigate why satisfaction difference exists among different types of mental illnesses.
Recent Advances in Characterization Techniques for the Interface in Carbon Nanotube-Reinforced Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Chen Junjie , Gao Xuhui , Xu Deguang
Published: April 2019

The current state of characterization techniques for the interface in carbon nanotube-reinforced polymer nanocomposites is reviewed. Different types of interfaces that exist within the nanocomposites are summarized, and current efforts focused on understanding the interfacial properties and interactions are reviewed. The emerging trends in characterization techniques and methodologies for the interface are presented, and their strengths and limitations are summarized. The intrinsic mechanism of the interactions at the interface between the carbon nanotubes and the polymer matrix is discussed. Special attention is given to research efforts focused on chemical functionalization of carbon nanotubes. The benefits and disadvantages associated with covalent and noncovalent functionalization methods are evaluated, respectively. Various techniques used to characterize the properties of the interface are extensively reviewed. How the mechanical and thermal properties of the nanocomposites depend on the physical and chemical nature of the interface is also discussed. Better understanding and design of the interface at the atomic level could become the forefront of research in the polymer community. Potential problems going to be solved are finally highlighted.