bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactions of Respiratory Viruses and the Nasal Microbiota during the First Year of Life in Healthy Infants
Authors: Korten Insa , Mika Moana , Klenja Shkipe , Kieninger Elisabeth , Mack Ines , Barbani Maria Teresa , Gorgievski Meri , Frey Urs , Hilty Markus , Latzin Philipp
Published: November 2016

Respiratory viral infections are very frequent in infancy and of importance in acute and chronic disease development. Infections with human rhinovirus (HRV) are, e.g., associated with the later development of asthma. We found that only symptomatic HRV infections were associated with acute changes in the nasal microbiota, mainly characterized by a loss of microbial diversity. Infants with more frequent symptomatic HRV infections had a lower bacterial diversity at the end of the first year of life. Whether the interaction between viruses and the microbiota is one pathway contributing to asthma development will be assessed in the follow-ups of these children. Independent of that, measurements of microbial diversity might represent a potential marker for risk of later lung disease or monitoring of early life interventions.
Metastatic melanoma after 23 years of primary ocular melanoma
Authors: Karde Supriya Ramesh , Bhand Prashant Ramesh , Ramesh Nagabathula , Arockiam Sacchin
Published: November 2016

We describe a case of 52-year-old man who presented with an episode of tonic–clonic seizures. He had right ocular melanoma 23 years ago with subsequent enucleation which was the standard treatment at that time. CT scans of the brain and of the thorax-abdomen-pelvis revealed widespread metastatic lesions in the brain, lung and liver. Further investigations including bronchoscopy with cytopathology uncovered that the metastatic disease was a recurrence of ocular melanoma. He received palliative radiotherapy and died 6 months later. Ocular melanoma is often associated with fulminant metastatic disease after a period of dormancy. Thus, despite successful treatment of the localised disease at initial presentation, an effort is needed for optimal long-term follow-up plan in order to improve survival in case of recurrence.
Is Olympic inspiration associated with fitness and physical activity in English schoolchildren? A repeated cross-sectional comparison before and 18 months after London 2012
Authors: Sandercock Gavin R H , Beedie Chris , Mann Steve
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To compare cardiovascular fitness and physical activity of schoolchildren 18 months after London 2012 according to Olympic ‘inspiration’.

Design

A cross-sectional comparison between groups of schoolchildren categorised according to self-reported Olympic inspiration and a repeated cross-sectional comparison using data collected pre-2012.

Setting

Schools within a 50 km radius of the Olympic Park, Stratford, London.

Participants

931 students (10.0–15.9-year-olds) attending 6 schools assessed in 2013 and 2014 (18 (range: 14–20) months after London 2012) and 733 students from the same schools assessed in 2008–2009 (42 (range: 38–46) months before London 2012).

Primary outcome measures

Self-reported Olympic inspiration; cardiorespiratory fitness ( mL/kg/min) assessed using the 20 m shuttle-run and self-reported physical activity.

Secondary outcomes measures

Differences inbefore and after London 2012.

Results

53% of children reported being inspired to try new sports or activities. Compared with those not inspired by the Games,was higher in boys (d=0.43) and girls (d=0.27), who continued to participate in activities at 18(14–20) months. This 45% of sample was also more physically active (boys, d=0.23; girls, d=0.38) than those not or only briefly inspired to participate in activities (boys, d=0.24; girls, d=0.21). Compared with pre-2012 values,was lower post-2012 in boys (d=0.37) and in girls (d=0.38).

Conclusions

High levels of inspiration to participate in new activities reported following London 2012 and positive associations with fitness are encouraging. We cannot discount the possibility that inspired participants may have already been fitter and more active pre-2012. These associations must be interpreted in the context of the significant declines in fitness shown by our repeated cross-sectional comparison. Olympic host countries should employ longitudinal monitoring using objectively measured fitness and physical activity to provide evidence of health-related legacy.
Science fiction and the medical humanities
Authors: Miller Gavin , McFarlane Anna
Published: November 2016

Research on science fiction within the medical humanities should articulate interpretative frameworks that do justice to medical themes within the genre. This means challenging modes of reading that encourage unduly narrow accounts of science fiction. Admittedly, science studies has moved away from reading science fiction as a variety of scientific popularisation and instead understands science fiction as an intervention in the technoscientific imaginary that calls for investment in particular scientific enterprises, including various biomedical technologies. However, this mode of reading neglects science fiction's critical relationship to the construction of ‘the future’ in the present: the ways in which science fiction proposes concrete alternatives to hegemonic narratives of medical progress and fosters critical self-awareness of the contingent activity which gives ‘the future’ substance in the here-and-now. Moreover, the future orientation of science fiction should not distract from the function of medical science fiction as ‘cognitive estrangement’: the technological innovations that dominate science-fiction narratives are less concrete predictions and more generic devices that explain in historical time the origins of a marvellous world bearing provocative correspondences to our own, everyday reality. The editorial concludes with a series of introductions to the articles comprising the special issue, covering the print edition and a special online-only section.
Republished: Remote multifocal bleeding points producing a Sylvian subpial hematoma during endovascular coiling of an acutely ruptured cerebral aneurysm
Authors: Hilditch Christopher Alan , Sonwalkar Hemant , Wuppalapati Siddhartha
Published: November 2016

Subpial hematoma is a rare type of intracranial hemorrhage with a poor prognosis. A new mechanism to explain subpial Sylvian hematoma formation in acute post-aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) was observed during coiling of a posterior communicating artery aneurysm. Multiple small bleeding points from pial branches of the left middle cerebral artery, which were remote from the ruptured aneurysm, were observed on conventional angiography. This bleeding led to the formation of a large expanding subpial Sylvian hematoma. Similar observations have been recently demonstrated on 4D CT angiography (4D CTA). We present a case that adds evidence to the literature in support of a new mechanism of subpial hematoma formation in the setting of acute SAH. This may advocate the early use of 4D CTA and conveys a poor prognosis, which might influence treatment decisions.
A computational study on new oxidizers as replacements for ammonium perchlorate: tetranitroacetimidic acid and tetranitroacetamide
Authors: Zhang Xueli , Gong Xuedong
Published: November 2016

High energetic materials tetranitroacetimidic acid (TNAA) and tetranitroacetamide (NTNAA) with positive oxygen balance (OB = 30%) are highly potential replacements for ammonium perchlorate (AP). Tautomerization from TNAA to NTNAA is feasible, reflected by the activation energy of 160.2∼170.0 kJ/mol. No transition state appears on the C–NO2 bond breaking, which triggers pyrolysis of two compounds. The C–NO2 bond dissociation energies are 116.1∼167.2 kJ/mol and 120.4∼174.6 kJ/mol for TNAA and NTNAA, respectively. The chemical stabilities of TNAA and NTNAA are higher than that of the insensitive explosive 1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethylene. TNAA and NTNAA possess lower impact sensitivities (h50 ≥ 77.51 cm) than AP does. Detonation properties of the composite explosives containing TNAA or NTNAA are comparable with that of the composite explosives containing AP. The acceptable stabilities, highly positive OB, environmentally friendly decomposition products, and the comparable ability to improve detonation performance of composite explosives show that TNAA and NTNAA are potential replacements for AP as an oxidizer used in composite explosives.
An atomistic-electrodynamics theory for the optical response of periodic lattices of metallic nanoparticles in the quantum size regime
Authors: Yannopapas Vassilios
Published: November 2016

We present a new theoretical method for calculating the optical properties of periodic arrays of metallic nanoparticles whose dimensions are in the quantum-size limit and cannot, therefore, be described by macroscopic electrodynamic theory based on Maxwell’s equations. In the first stage, the method calculates the scattering matrix for a single metal nanoparticle described as a polyhedral cluster of atoms, via a discrete-dipole approximation/point-matching technique. The resulting scattering matrix is incorporated into a layer-multiple-scattering technique which allows the modeling of two- and three-dimensional nanostructures containing very small metal nanoparticles. The method is demonstrated for square arrays of silver nanoparticles with radii below 2 nm and the corresponding results are compared against classical local and nonlocal electrodynamic approaches.
Studies on the signal amplification in weighted and unweighted small-world networks
Authors: Gao Yang , Wang Jianjun , Ma Fuqiu
Published: November 2016

Weighted and unweighted networks composed of coupled bistable oscillators with small-world topology are investigated under the co-presence of a weak signal and multiplicative Gaussian white noise. As the noise intensity is adjusted to one or two optimal values, the temporal periodicity of the output of the system reaches the maximum, indicating the occurrence of stochastic resonance (SR) or stochastic bi-resonance (SBR). The resonance behavior is strongly-dependent on the coupling strength in both networks. At a weak coupling, SR more likely takes place; whereas at a strong coupling, SBR is prone to occur. Compared with unweighted networks, the span of coupling strength for SBR is narrower in weighted networks. In addition, the weak signal cannot be amplified so effectively in the weighted networks as in the unweighted networks, attributing to the weakening effect of the link weight on the coupling between oscillators and the heterogeneity of the whole network connectivity caused by the weight distribution.
Density functional theory study of the geometrical and electronic structures of GenV(0,±1)(n=1–9) clusters
Authors: Shi Shun-Ping , Liu Yi-Liang , Deng Bang-Lin , Zhang Chuan-Yu , Jiang Gang
Published: November 2016

Geometrical and electronic properties of Ge[Formula: see text]V[Formula: see text] clusters containing 1–9 Ge atoms and one V atom are calculated by using density functional theory (DFT) at the B3LYP level and the LanL2DZ basis sets. The growth pattern behavior, natural population analysis, relative stability, electronic property and magnetism of these clusters are discussed in detail. The calculation results of the geometrical show that the relative stable structures of Ge[Formula: see text]V[Formula: see text] clusters adopt 3D structures from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text]. The results of natural population analysis show that electrons transfer from the Ge atoms to the V atoms when [Formula: see text] while the electrons transfer from the V atoms to the Ge atoms when [Formula: see text]. The Ge[Formula: see text]V[Formula: see text] clusters possess higher stability and the GeV[Formula: see text], Ge3V[Formula: see text], Ge5V[Formula: see text], Ge7V[Formula: see text], and Ge9V[Formula: see text] have larger HOMO–LUMO gaps. Furthermore, the VIPs of Ge[Formula: see text]V clusters show a reverse trend in contrast to the AIPs.
Effect of field modulation on the quasi-phase-matching for second harmonic generation in a two-dimensional nonlinear photonic crystal
Authors: Zhao Li-Ming , Zhou Yun-Song , Wang Ai-Hua
Published: November 2016

Second harmonic generation (SHG) in a two-dimensional (2D) nonlinear photonic crystal (NPC) with finite width along [Formula: see text]-direction that is embedded in air is investigated, without adopting the traditional approximations such as a plane-wave approximation (PWA) and slowly varying amplitude approximation (SVAA). The so-called quasi-phase-matching (QPM) and the corresponding SHG conversion efficiency can be modulated significantly by the field of fundamental wave (FW). It is assumed that the incident light, along [Formula: see text]-direction, is normally launched upon the surface of the sample, and QPM for different directions is investigated. It is found that the QPM shows significant differences, compared with the traditional QPM along the two different directions: in the direction of finite width of the sample, the peak value of SHG conversion efficiency is deviated from the traditional case and it gets to its peak values when the transmittance resonance occurs. However, in the other direction, the deviation from the traditional QPM arises from the field modulation of the second harmonic wave (SHW) and in this direction, it is investigated that the full width at half maximum of QPM is much wider than that in the direction of finite width of the sample. These results can be used to provide a theoretical guidance for achieving QPM SHG.
Limit of a nonpreferential attachment multitype network model
Authors: Shang Yilun
Published: November 2016

Here, we deal with a model of multitype network with nonpreferential attachment growth. The connection between two nodes depends asymmetrically on their types, reflecting the implication of time order in temporal networks. Based upon graph limit theory, we analytically determined the limit of the network model characterized by a kernel, in the sense that the number of copies of any fixed subgraph converges when network size tends to infinity. The results are confirmed by extensive simulations. Our work thus provides a theoretical framework for quantitatively understanding grown temporal complex networks as a whole.
Space–time correlation analysis of traffic flow on road network
Authors: Su Fei , Dong Honghui , Jia Limin , Tian Zhao , Sun Xuan
Published: November 2016

Space–time correlation analysis has become a basic and critical work in the research on road traffic congestion. It plays an important role in improving traffic management quality. The aim of this research is to examine the space–time correlation of road networks to determine likely requirements for building a suitable space–time traffic model. In this paper, it is carried out using traffic flow data collected on Beijing’s road network. In the framework, the space–time autocorrelation function (ST-ACF) is introduced as global measure, and cross-correlation function (CCF) as local measure to reveal the change mechanism of space–time correlation. Through the use of both measures, the correlation is found to be dynamic and heterogeneous in space and time. The finding of seasonal pattern present in space–time correlation provides a theoretical assumption for traffic forecasting. Besides, combined with Simpson’s rule, the CCF is also applied to finding the critical sections in the road network, and the experiments prove that it is feasible in computability, rationality and practicality.
A Design Theory for Cognitive Workflow Systems
Authors: Hyysalo Jarkko , Oivo Markku , Kuvaja Pasi
Published: November 2016

This paper addresses the design problem of providing cognitive support for workflow systems in software development. Software development is demanding knowledge work that requires creativity and adaptability to changing requirements and situations. This type of work involves cognitive actions that require substantial support in several forms in order to address needs such as collaboration, communication, knowledge management, awareness and transparency, and the coordination and structuring of the development processes. The literature and our empirical results show that there is a lack of cognitive support in current workflow models. Hence, we identify the need for a design theory for cognitive workflow systems (CWS). In this paper, such a theory is presented. The proposed design theory for CWS is validated through an action research intervention. This design theory has important implications from both research and practical perspectives. The results will help developers in their daily work, enhance the efficiency of the development processes, and facilitate decision-making activities.
Compact objects in pure Lovelock theory
Authors: Dadhich Naresh , Hansraj Sudan , Chilambwe Brian
Published: November 2016

For static fluid interiors of compact objects in pure Lovelock gravity (involving only one [Formula: see text]th order term in the equation), we establish similarity in solutions for the critical odd and even [Formula: see text] dimensions. It turns out that in critical odd [Formula: see text] dimensions, there cannot exist any bound distribution with a finite radius, while in critical even [Formula: see text] dimensions, all solutions have similar behavior. For exhibition of similarity, we would compare star solutions for [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] Einstein and [Formula: see text] in Gauss–Bonnet theory, respectively. We also obtain the pure Lovelock analogue of the Finch–Skea model.
Dynamics of 16,18O-induced reactions using Ni, Ge and Mo targets
Authors: Rajni  , Kaur Gurvinder , Sharma Manoj K.
Published: November 2016

Dynamical cluster decay model (DCM) based on the collective clusterization approach is employed to explore the dynamics of various even-mass Zr isotopes formed in [Formula: see text]O-induced reactions. In reference to the measured fusion cross-section data, various decay modes contributing towards [Formula: see text]Zr[Formula: see text] nuclei are investigated. Also, the role of deformations and orientation degree of freedom is analyzed by comparing results with spherical choice of fragmentation. In addition to this, the effect of entrance channel is explored for [Formula: see text]Zr[Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]Kr[Formula: see text] nuclei formed in [Formula: see text]O and [Formula: see text]O-induced reactions. Besides this, the dynamics of relatively heavier mass Sn isotopes is exercised using [Formula: see text]O and [Formula: see text]O projectiles. The DCM calculated decay cross-sections find good agreement with available experimental data.
A new characterization of Auslander algebras
Authors: Li Shen , Zhang Shunhua
Published: November 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite dimensional Auslander algebra. For a [Formula: see text]-module [Formula: see text], we prove that the projective dimension of [Formula: see text] is at most one if and only if the projective dimension of its socle soc[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] is at most one. As an application, we give a new characterization of Auslander algebras [Formula: see text] and prove that a finite dimensional algebra [Formula: see text] is an Auslander algebra provided its global dimension gl.d[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] and an injective [Formula: see text]-module is projective if and only if the projective dimension of its socle is at most one.
Synthesis and catalytic activity of μ-oxo ruthenium(IV) porphyrin species to promote amination reactions
Authors: Zardi Paolo , Intrieri Daniela , Carminati Daniela Maria , Ferretti Francesco , Macchi Piero , Gallo Emma
Published: November 2016

This work describes the synthesis of ruthenium(IV) [Formula: see text]-oxo porphyrin complexes of general formula [RuIV(TPP)(X)]2O which have been applied as catalysts in nitrene transfer reactions using aryl azides (ArN[Formula: see text] as nitrene sources. Collected data indicated that the catalytic efficiency of [RuIV(TPP)(OCH[Formula: see text]]2O was comparable to that of RuII(TPP)CO because of their analogous reactivity towards aryl azides to give the same catalytically active bis-imido species RuVI(TPP)(ArN)2. The reaction of [RuIV(TPP)(OCH[Formula: see text]]2O with Ph3CN3 or (CH[Formula: see text]SiN3 afforded [RuIV(TPP)(N[Formula: see text]]2O which was fully characterised, its molecular structure was also determined by single crystal X-ray analysis.
A cup product lemma for continuous plurisubharmonic functions
Authors: Napier Terrence , Ramachandran Mohan
Published: November 2016

A version of Gromov’s cup product lemma in which one factor is the (1, 0)-part of the differential of a continuous plurisubharmonic function is obtained. As an application, it is shown that a connected noncompact complete Kähler manifold that has exactly one end and admits a continuous plurisubharmonic function that is strictly plurisubharmonic along some germ of a [Formula: see text]-dimensional complex analytic set at some point has the Bochner–Hartogs property; that is, the first compactly supported cohomology with values in the structure sheaf vanishes.
On the dynamic generalization of the anisotropic Eshelby ellipsoidal inclusion and the dynamically expanding inhomogeneities with transformation strain
Authors: Markenscoff Xanthippi
Published: November 2016

The self-similarly dynamically (subsonically) expanding anisotropic ellipsoidal Eshelby inclusion is shown to exhibit the constant stress “Eshelby property” in the interior domain of the expanding inclusion on the basis of dimensional analysis, analytic properties and the proof for the static inclusion alone. As an example of this property and the application of the dynamic Eshelby tensor (constant in the interior domain), it is shown that the Eshelby equivalent inclusion method always allows for the determination of the equivalent transformation strain for a self-similarly dynamically expanding inhomogeneous spherical inclusion when the Poisson's ratio is in the real range (positive definiteness of the strain energy). Thus, the solution of dynamically self-similarly expanding inhomogeneities (chemical phase change) with transformation strain can be obtained, as well as the driving force per unit area of the expanding inhomogeneity.
Involvement of infiltrating macrophage-derived activin A in the progression of renal damage in MRL-lprmice
Authors: Kadiombo Anastasie Tshilela , Maeshima Akito , Kayakabe Ken , Ikeuchi Hidekazu , Sakairi Toru , Kaneko Yoriaki , Hiromura Keiju , Nojima Yoshihisa
Published: November 2016

Lupus nephritis is a life-threatening complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Various growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines are implicated in the development of SLE. However, the pathophysiological processes involved in the development of lupus nephritis still remain unclear. In this study, we examined the involvement of activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily, in the progression of renal damage in lupus-prone MRL- lpr mice. Activin A was not expressed in the kidneys of control MRL-MpJ mice but was detectable in perivascular infiltrating cluster of differentiation 68 (CD68)-positive cells in the kidneys of MRL- lpr mice. Urinary activin A, which was also absent in MRL-MpJ mice, was detectable in MRL- lpr mice from 16 wk onward. Urinary activin A levels were significantly correlated with the number of perivascular inflammatory cell layers, the number of crescentic glomeruli, and the percentage of Elastica van Gieson (EVG)-positive fibrotic areas, but not with urinary protein levels or serum activin A. When activin action was blocked in vivo by the intraperitoneal administration of an activin antagonist, follistatin, the number of crescentic glomeruli, percentage of EVG-positive fibrotic areas, CD68-positive cell infiltration, and proteinuria were significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner. These data suggest that infiltrating macrophage-derived activin A is involved in the progression of renal damage in MRL- lpr mice.
Existence and Boundedness of Solutions for Nonlinear Volterra Difference Equations in Banach Spaces
Authors: Medina Rigoberto
Published: November 2016

We consider a class of nonlinear discrete-time Volterra equations in Banach spaces. Estimates for the norm of operator-valued functions and the resolvents of quasi-nilpotent operators are used to find sufficient conditions that all solutions of such equations are elements of an appropriate Banach space. These estimates give us explicit boundedness conditions. The boundedness of solutions to Volterra equations with infinite delay is also investigated.
Patterns of AllocationCSRPlant Functional Types in Northern Europe
Authors: Novakovskiy Alexander B. , Maslova Svetlana P. , Dalke Igor V. , Dubrovskiy Yuriy A.
Published: November 2016

Morphological and physiological parameters of 76 vascular plant species typical for Northern Europe were analyzed using Grime’s classification.Cspecies (competitors) have high levels of canopy height, leaf dry weight, and maximal lateral spread.Rspecies (ruderal) have low leaf dry weight, longer flowering period, high rate of photosynthetic capacity and respiration, and high nitrogen content in the leaves. Stress-tolerant (S) species prevailing in habitats with limited resources are small and have low rate of photosynthetic activity and respiration. Principal component analysis (PCA) ordination showed a clear separation of species of different plant functional types according to their morphological and physiological parameters. The first PCA axis showed close relationship with the rate of respiration and photosynthetic activity and allowed us to differentiateSfromRspecies. The second PCA axis correlated with morphological parameters associated with the size of plants and allowed us to differentiateCspecies fromSandRspecies. Using PCA ordination, we developed a model that determines plant functional types in Northern Europe and analyzed plant functional types of several species that are not presented in Grime’s classification. The proposed model has higher accuracy (84%) compared to similar models designed for other climatic zones.
Agreement between Gonioscopic Examination and Swept Source Fourier Domain Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging
Authors: Rigi Mohammed , Bell Nicholas P. , Lee David A. , Baker Laura A. , Chuang Alice Z. , Nguyen Donna , Minnal Vandana R. , Feldman Robert M. , Blieden Lauren S.
Published: November 2016

Purpose. To evaluate interobserver, intervisit, and interinstrument agreements for gonioscopy and Fourier domain anterior segment optical coherence tomography (FD ASOCT) for classifying open and narrow angle eyes. Methods. Eighty-six eyes with open or narrow anterior chamber angles were included. The superior angle was classified open or narrow by 2 of 5 glaucoma specialists using gonioscopy and imaged by FD ASOCT in the dark. The superior angle of each FD ASOCT image was graded as open or narrow by 2 masked readers. The same procedures were repeated within 6 months. Kappas for interobserver and intervisit agreements for each instrument and interinstrument agreements were calculated. Results. The mean age was 50.9 (±18.4) years. Interobserver agreements were moderate to good for both gonioscopy (0.57 and 0.69) and FD ASOCT (0.58 and 0.75). Intervisit agreements were moderate to excellent for both gonioscopy (0.53 to 0.86) and FD ASOCT (0.57 and 0.85). Interinstrument agreements were fair to good (0.34 to 0.63), with FD ASOCT classifying more angles as narrow than gonioscopy. Conclusions. Both gonioscopy and FD ASOCT examiners were internally consistent with similar interobserver and intervisit agreements for angle classification. Agreement between instruments was fair to good, with FD ASOCT classifying more angles as narrow than gonioscopy.
Premature Destruction of Microbubbles during Voiding Urosonography in Children and Possible Underlying Mechanisms: Post Hoc Analysis from the Prospective Study
Authors: Piskunowicz Maciej , Swieton Dominik , Rybczynska Dorota , Szarmach Arkadiusz , Szurowska Edyta , Pruijm Menno
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study is to describe premature microbubbles destruction with contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ce-VUS) in children using 2nd-generation ultrasound contrast agents (UCA) and to hypothesize about the reason. 141 children (61 females and 80 males) were included in the study, with mean age of 3.3 years (range 4 weeks–16.0 years), who underwent ce-VUS examination between 2011 and 2014. Premature destruction of the microbubbles in the urinary bladder during ce-VUS was observed in 11 children (7.8%). In all these cases the voiding phase of ce-VUS examination could not be performed because of destroyed UCA microbubbles. This was noted in anxious, crying infants and children with restricted voiding. The premature destruction of ultrasound contrast agent during ce-VUS is an underreported, important limitation of ce-VUS, which prevents evaluation of the voiding phase and the establishment of vesicoureteric reflux (VUR). This was particularly noted in crying infants and children.
High Precision Clock Bias Prediction Model in Clock Synchronization System
Authors: Liu Zan , Chen Xihong , Liu Jin , Li Chenglong
Published: November 2016

Time synchronization is a fundamental requirement for many services provided by a distributed system. Clock calibration through the time signal is the usual way to realize the synchronization among the clocks used in the distributed system. The interference to time signal transmission or equipment failures may bring about failure to synchronize the time. To solve this problem, a clock bias prediction module is paralleled in the clock calibration system. And for improving the precision of clock bias prediction, the first-order grey model with one variable (GM(1,1)) model is proposed. In the traditional GM(1,1) model, the combination of parameters determined by least squares criterion is not optimal; therefore, the particle swarm optimization (PSO) is used to optimize GM(1,1) model. At the same time, in order to avoid PSO getting stuck at local optimization and improve its efficiency, the mechanisms that double subgroups and nonlinear decreasing inertia weight are proposed. In order to test the precision of the improved model, we design clock calibration experiments, where time signal is transferred via radio and wired channel, respectively. The improved model is built on the basis of clock bias acquired in the experiments. The results show that the improved model is superior to other models both in precision and in stability. The precision of improved model increased by 66.4%~76.7%.
Flow Dynamic Analysis of Core Shooting Process through Experiment and Multiphase Modeling
Authors: Ni Changjiang , Lu Gaochun , Jing Tao , Wu Junjiao
Published: November 2016

Core shooting process is the most widely used technique to make sand cores and it plays an important role in the quality of sand cores as well as the manufacture of complicated castings in metal casting industry. In this paper, the flow behavior of sand particles in the core box was investigated synchronously with transparent core box, high-speed camera, and pressure measuring system. The flow pattern of sand particles in the shooting head of the core shooting machine was reproduced with various colored core sand layers. Taking both kinetic and frictional stress into account, a kinetic-frictional constitutive correlation was established to describe the internal momentum transfer in the solid phase. Two-fluid model (TFM) simulations with turbulence model were then performed and good agreement was achieved between the experimental and simulation results on the flow behavior of sand particles in both the shooting head and the core box. Based on the experimental and simulation results, the flow behavior of sand particles in the core box, the formation of “dead zone” in the shooting head, and the effect of drag force were analyzed in terms of sand volume fraction (αs), sand velocity (Vs), and pressure variation (P).
Synthesis and Characterization of Molecular Imprinting Polymer Microspheres of Cinnamic Acid: Extraction of Cinnamic Acid from Spiked Blood Plasma
Authors: Joke Chow Alvin Leong , Bhawani Showkat Ahmad
Published: November 2016

The molecular imprinting technique is used to create the molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) with higher binding capacity towards the template. In this research precipitation polymerization method with noncovalent approach was used to synthesize imprinted polymer microspheres. The polymerization reaction was conducted in a flask containing acetonitrile as a porogen, cinnamic acid as a template (T), acrylic acid (AA) as a monomer, divinylbenzene (DVB) as a cross-linker, and azobisisobutyronitrile as an initiator. The polymer particles were characterized by using SEM and FTIR. The rebinding efficiency was conducted by batch binding assay and the results were monitored by using HPLC. The batch binding results suggested MIP1 (T : AA : DVB, 1 : 6 : 20 molar ratio) is most suitable composition for the rebinding of cinnamic acid. The highly selective polymer (MIP1) was used for the extraction of cinnamic acid from human plasma. The extraction efficiency of imprinted polymer of cinnamic acid from spiked plasma was above 75%.
Online Calibration for LTE-Based Antenna Array System
Authors: Kim Kyunghoon , Yang Hyunwook , Jang Jaehyun , Sun Tiefeng , Choi Seungwon , Jung Jaeho
Published: November 2016

This paper presents a novel calibration method that equalizes the impulse responses of all the Radio Frequency (RF) modules of an antenna array system operating in Long-Term Evolution (LTE) evolved NodeB (eNB). The proposed technique utilizes the Zadoff-Chu (Z-C) sequence of the Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS) and Sounding Reference Signal (SRS) that are available in every LTE data frame for downlink and uplink, respectively, for estimating and compensating the differences in the impulse responses among the RF modules. The proposed calibration method is suitable for wide bandwidth signal environments of LTE because it equalizes the impulse response of each RF module, which is ultimately equivalent to compensate the phase and amplitude differences among RF modules for the entire frequency band. In addition, the proposed method is applicable while the target eNB is transmitting or receiving a data stream. From various experimental tests obtained from a test-bed implemented with 2 RF modules, it has been verified that the proposed method provides a reliable calibration for Release 10 Time Division Duplex (TDD) LTE signals. Phase errors after the calibration in our test-bed have been found to be about 2.418° and 2.983° for downlink and uplink, respectively.
The Biological Metallic versus Metallic Solution in Treating Periprosthetic Femoral Fractures: Outcome Assessment
Authors: Carta Serafino , Fortina Mattia , Riva Alberto , Meccariello Luigi , Manzi Enrico , Di Giovanni Antonio , Ferrata Paolo
Published: November 2016

Introduction. The periprosthetic fracture of the femur is, in order of frequency, the fourth leading cause (5.9%) of surgical revision. Our study aims to demonstrate how the grafting of bone splint betters the outcomes.Materials. We treated 15 periprosthetic femoral fractures divided into two groups: PS composed of 8 patients treated with plates and splints and PSS involving 7 patients treated only with plates. The evaluation criteria for the two groups during the clinical and radiological follow-up were the quality of life measured by the Short Form (36) Health Survey (SF-36), Harris Hip Score (HHS), Modified Cincinnati Rating System Questionnaire (MCRSQ), bone healing measured by the Radiographic Union Score (RUS), postoperative complications, and mortality. The evaluation endpoint was set at 24 months for both groups (p<0.05).Results. The surgery lasted an average of 124.5 minutes for the PS group and 112.6 minutes for the PSS. At 24 months all clinical and radiographic scores werep<0.05for the PS group. During follow-up 4 patients (2 in each group) died of causes not related to surgery.Conclusions. The use of the metal plate as opposed to cortical allogenic splint should be taken into consideration as a noteworthy point for periprosthetic femoral fractures.
Changes in IL-2 and IL-10 during Chronic Administration of Isoniazid, Nevirapine, and Paracetamol in Rats
Authors: Bekker Zanelle , Walubo Andrew , Du Plessis Jan B.
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study was to illustrate the initial subclinical drug-induced liver injury and the associated adaptive immune response by monitoring for the changes in plasma IL-2, IL-10, and some cytochrome P450 activity during chronic administration of nevirapine (NVP), isoniazid (INH), and paracetamol (PAR) in rats without clinical hepatotoxicity. Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into four groups (saline (S), NVP, INH, and PAR) of 25 animals each. The drugs were administered daily for 42 days at therapeutic doses (NVP 200 mg/kg, PAR 500 mg/kg, and INH 20 mg/kg) to the respective groups by oral gavage and five rats per group were sacrificed weekly. All the three drugs induced a subclinical liver injury in the first 2-3 weeks followed by healing, indicating adaption. The liver injury was pathologically similar and was associated with immune stimulation and increased cytochrome P450 activity. NVP- and PAR-induced liver injury lasted up to 14 days while that for INH lasted for 28 days. NVP-induced liver injury was associated with increased IL-2, CD4 count, and CYP3A2 activity, followed by increased IL-10 during the healing phase. In conclusion, the initial drug-induced subclinical liver injury, its spontaneous healing, and the associated adaptive immune response have been demonstrated.
Nonneoplastic Tongue Swellings of Lymphatic and Lymphocytic Origin: Three Case Reports
Authors: Abdul Aziz Manar A. , Yussif Nermin M.
Published: November 2016

Tongue is formed of a mass of muscles and salivary gland embedded in anterior highly vascular and posterior lymphoid stroma and covered by specialized surface epithelium. Growths from all of these heterogonous components may occur resulting in a wide variation in clinical features and behavior, ranging from self-limiting to aggressive lesions. Therefore, surgical excision is the treatment of choice. The aim of the current study is to report three different lesions that came to the Oral Surgery Department in the Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine, Cairo University. Following clinical and histopathological examination, the diagnosis of reactive lymphoproliferative lesion, cystic lymphoepithelial lesion, and developmental lymphatic vessel malformation was reached.
Instructors’ Perceptions of Mostly Seated Exercise Classes: Exploring the Concept of Chair Based Exercise
Authors: Robinson Katie R. , Masud Tahir , Hawley-Hague Helen
Published: November 2016

Chair based exercise (CBE) can be used to engage older adults unable to take part in standing exercise programmes. Defining and understanding the context of CBE have been acknowledged as a challenge. We explore instructor experiences of delivering mostly seated exercise classes for older people and how this helps us to further understand the concept of CBE. We extracted qualitative data from a cross-sectional survey with 731 exercise instructors. 378 delivered mostly seated classes and 223 of those instructors provided qualitative data. There were 155 instructors who did not provide any qualitative comments. Framework analysis was used and informed by a Delphi consensus study on CBE. Instructors perceived mostly seated classes as predominantly CBE; they defined it as an introductory class that should be offered as part of a continuum of exercise. It was considered suitable for those with limitations and older adults in long-term care and with dementia. Instructors reported CBE used inappropriately for more active older people. Instructors reported observing improvements in mood and cognition and broader social benefits. Instructors’ perspectives largely support expert consensus that CBE has an important role in a continuum of exercise. Providers of CBE need to ensure that more challenging exercises are introduced where appropriate. Further research is needed to explore older adults’ perceptions of CBE.
Delayed Reconstruction by Total Calcaneal Allograft following Calcanectomy: Is It an Option?
Authors: Degeorge Benjamin , Dagneaux Louis , Forget David , Gaillard Florent , Canovas François
Published: November 2016

Many options are available in literature for the management of delayed reconstruction following calcanectomy. In cases of low-grade tumor lesions, conservative surgery can be considered. We describe a case of delayed reconstruction by calcaneal allograft after calcanectomy for low-grade chondrosarcoma. At 12-month follow-up, the patient had no pain; MSTS score and AOFAS score were satisfactory. Subtalar nonunion was observed with no secondary displacement or graft necrosis. The aim of conservative treatment for this patient was to restore normal gait with plantigrade locomotion and function of the Achilles tendon. Calcaneal reconstruction by total allograft is an alternative approach following calcanectomy for calcaneal tumors. We also discussed other options of calcaneal reconstruction.
Positive Expression of Human Cytomegalovirus Phosphoprotein 65 in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Wang Zhe , Cai Jun , Zhang Mingming , Wang Xiaojing , Chi Hongjie , Feng Haijun , Yang Xinchun
Published: November 2016

Previous studies showed that human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is associated with atherosclerosis. However, local vascular atherosclerosis related HCMV infection and protein expression remain unclear. This study aimed to assess the relationship between HCMV infection and atherosclerosis. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded peripheral artery specimens were obtained from 15 patients with atherosclerosis undergoing vascular surgery from 2008 to 2010 at Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University. Pathological analyses were carried out after hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson trichrome staining. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry with two different monoclonal antibodies were employed to detect HCMV nucleic acids and proteins, respectively. H&E and Masson trichrome staining showed homogeneous extracellular matrix in femoral artery, while smooth muscle fibers were interlaced with collagen fibers; in carotid artery, inflammatory cell infiltration, foam cell vascular change, cholesterol crystals, and layered collagen fibers were observed. In situ hybridization showed no expression of HCMV nucleic acids in all 15 cases. Immunohistochemical staining for protein immediate-early protein (IE1 72) was negative in all cases, while phosphoprotein 65 (pp65) expression was detected in 14 cases. A high rate of positive pp65 signals was found in patients with atherosclerosis, suggesting that local HCMV infection may be associated with the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Further studies on this relationship are warranted.
Atypical Complete Femoral Fractures Associated with Bisphosphonate Use or Not Associated with Bisphosphonate Use: Is There a Difference?
Authors: Kim Sang-Min , Park Youn-Soo , Moon Young-Wan , Kang Seung-Hoon , Yeo Ingwon , Oh Seung-Min , Lim Seung-Jae
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this study is to compare clinical characteristics and surgical outcome of atypical complete femoral fractures associated with bisphosphonates (BPs) use and those of fractures not associated with BPs use. Seventy-six consecutive patients (81 fractures) who had been operatively treated for a complete atypical femoral fracture were recruited. Of the 81 fractures, 73 occurred after BPs medication of at least 3 years (BP group) while 8 occurred without a history of BP medication (non-BP group). There were no differences in demographic data and fracture- and surgery-associated factors between the two groups. Of 76 patients (81 fractures), 54 (66.7%) fractures showed bony union within 6 months after the index surgery and 23 (28.4%) showed delayed union at a mean of 11.2 months (range, 8–18 months). The remaining 4 fractures were not healed, even 18 months after the index surgery. There was no difference in healing rate between the BP group and the non-BP group. There were strong correlations between the fracture height and the degree of bowing regardless of BPs medication. All fractures except 1 occurred at the diaphyseal region of the femur when not associated with BP medication.
A Tuning Computation Technique for a Multiple-Antenna-Port and Multiple-User-Port Antenna Tuner
Authors: Broydé Frédéric , Clavelier Evelyne
Published: November 2016

A multiple-user-port antenna tuner having the structure of a multidimensionalπ-network has recently been disclosed, together with design equations which assume lossless circuit elements. This paper is about the design of this type of antenna tuner, when losses are taken into account in each circuit element of the antenna tuner. The problem to be solved is the tuning computation, the intended results of which are the reactance values of the adjustable impedance devices of the antenna tuner, which provide an ideal match, if such reactance values exist. An efficient iterative tuning computation technique is presented and demonstrated.
Association of Serum CXCL13 with Intrarenal Ectopic Lymphoid Tissue Formation in Lupus Nephritis
Authors: He De Ning , Chen Wen Li , Long Kang Xia , Zhang Xiao , Dong Guang Fu
Published: November 2016

Aims. To assess the concentrations of serum CXCL13 and intrarenal ectopic lymphoid tissue (ELT) profiles and their correlation in the patients with lupus nephritis (LN). Methods. Serum CXCL13 levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). The expression of CD3, CD20, and CD21 in renal biopsy specimens was tested using immunohistochemical methods. Results. Serum CXCL13 levels were significantly higher in the LN group than those in the SLE group without LN and also in the type III and IV LN patients than in type V LN patients. LN patients with positive CD20 expression (CD20+ LN) had a longer disease course and poorer response to combination therapy and higher serum CXCL13 levels than CD20− LN patients. Moreover, the serum CXCL13 level was positively correlated with the number of B cells/HP in the renal tissue of LN patients. The coexpression patterns of CD3, CD20, and CD21 in the renal tissue of LN patients with different WHO pathological types were significantly different. Serum CXCL13 levels were significantly higher in ELT-2 type LN patients than in 0 or 1 type LN patients. Conclusions. This study suggested that increased serum levels of CXCL13 might be involved in renal ELT formation and renal impairment process in LN.
Mechanical Properties of Boehmite Evaluated by Atomic Force Microscopy Experiments and Molecular Dynamic Finite Element Simulations
Authors: Fankhänel J. , Silbernagl D. , Ghasem Zadeh Khorasani M. , Daum B. , Kempe A. , Sturm H. , Rolfes R.
Published: November 2016

Boehmite nanoparticles show great potential in improving mechanical properties of fiber reinforced polymers. In order to predict the properties of nanocomposites, knowledge about the material parameters of the constituent phases, including the boehmite particles, is crucial. In this study, the mechanical behavior of boehmite is investigated using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) experiments and Molecular Dynamic Finite Element Method (MDFEM) simulations. Young’s modulus of the perfect crystalline boehmite nanoparticles is derived from numerical AFM simulations. Results of AFM experiments on boehmite nanoparticles deviate significantly. Possible causes are identified by experiments on complementary types of boehmite, that is, geological and hydrothermally synthesized samples, and further simulations of imperfect crystals and combined boehmite/epoxy models. Under certain circumstances, the mechanical behavior of boehmite was found to be dominated by inelastic effects that are discussed in detail in the present work. The studies are substantiated with accompanying X-ray diffraction and Raman experiments.