bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Awareness about human papilloma virus vaccine among medical students
Authors: Kamini Snigdha , Bhimarasetty Devi Madhavi
Published: July 2016

Background: Human papilloma virus is a causative agent of cervical cancer. Hence,vaccination against HPV is an important mode of primary prevention against cervical cancer. Two vaccines against HPV have been approved and recommended for use in India. However the availability of these vaccines is hardly known and seldom utilised even among the medical fraternity.Aims and Objectives: This study aims to find out the awareness about HPV vaccination among medical students of Andhra Medical College, India. Results of this study will help in assessing the need for awareness programs among health care professionals regarding this important public health issue. Materials and Methods: An observational descriptive study was conducted to know the awareness of HPV infection and vaccination among medical students of a government medical college at Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. A pretested questionnaire was administered to students of final MBBS Part 1 and final MBBS part 2. Results were analyzed in MS excel and the statistical significance of difference in knowledge between males and females was assessed. Results: Overall, the level of awareness reported was 54.5%. Females had slightly better knowledge than males. Students of final year Part 2 had better knowledge the Final year part 1. The most commonly cited source of information was medical education and the most important factor that deterred subjects from receiving/advising HPV vaccination was lack of knowledge. Conclusion: There exists a large gap in knowledge regarding HPV vaccination. Addressing this gap is necessary if we want to decrease the burden of cervical cancer in India. Medical students, health care providers should be sensitized first and then we should reach out to the public.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.7(4) 2016 64-67
Penetrating eye injuries in pediatric population: An epidemiological study and visual outcome
Authors: Bajracharya Kabindra , Rai Salma KC , Bhari Arjun Malla , Thapa Hari Bahadur , Hirachan Anjita , Pandey Saraswati , Borroni Davide
Published: July 2016

Introduction: Penetrating eye injury is an important cause of visual impairment in pediatric population.Aims and Objectives: To study the epidemiology and visual outcome of penetrating eye injuries in pediatric population presented to Lumbini Eye Institute, the tertiary eye hospital of western Nepal.Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at the Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, Lumbini Eye Institute over a period of one year from June 2014 to May 2015. All patients of penetrating eye injuries up to the age of 15 years were included in the study. The demographics of the patient, cause and duration of injury were recorded. The presenting and final best corrected visual acuity, anterior and posterior segment findings were recorded in specially designed proforma.Results: A total number of 127 children (127 eyes) presented with penetrating eye injuries during a year. The incidence of penetrating eye injury in one year was 127 out of 12927 new patients. Minimum age was 11 months, while the maximum age was 15 years with mean of 7.29 years (SD= ±3.49). Male and female patients were 99 (78%) and 28 (22%) respectively. Involvement of right eye was seen in 69 cases (54.33%) and left eye 58 (45.67%). The most common cause of injury was wooden stick in 55 cases (43.31%) followed by iron wire 12 (9.45%) and the stone 11 (8.66%). Corneal laceration was found in 102 cases (80.31%), scleral laceration in 10 (7.87%) and corneo-scleral laceration in 15 (11.81%). Seventy three percent patients were blind at the time of presentation whereas at discharge 37.63% were blind and 11.43% of patients had visual acuity better than 6/18 at presentation whereas 35.48% had visual acuity better than 6/18 after treatment.Conclusion: Penetrating eye injury is one of the common causes attending Pediatric Ophthalmology Department. Penetrating eye injury is common in male and majority of trauma is caused by wooden stick. The awareness of ocular trauma and its consequences should be increased to reduce incidence of childhood blindness.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.7(4) 2016 84-87
Exploration of factors affecting prognosis of stroke preceded by transient ischemic attack
Authors: Adly Nermien , Ali Safaa Hussein
Published: July 2016

Background: Age is the most important risk factor for stroke. The regional brain affection was not considered in a comparison between different brain locations as a predictor for outcome in those with and without prior TIA.Aims and Objectives: Can transient Ischemic attack predict stroke prognosis?Materials and Methods: Fifty nine patients, aged ≥ 55 years old, with recent ischemic stroke were studied, with (cases, 40.68%) and without (controls) antecedent TIA. National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin scale (MRS), and California risk score (CRS) were assessed. A brain computed tomography was done.Results: Older age was a predictor of more severe stroke (P<0.001). Different latencies for TIA were studied. With reference to our controls, better prognosis was found only in cases with TIA ≤ seven days as a predictor for better NIHSS and MRS. In cases, CRS was a significant predictor of shorter latency. Infratentorial ischemic stroke, not supratentorial ischemic stroke, with prior TIA, was a significant predictor of lower NIHSS.Conclusion: TIA ≤ seven days is a predictor for better NIHSS and MRS.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.7(4) 2016 68-74
Status and Diversity of Birds of Ramna Park, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Rajia Sultana , Alam Md Mahabub , Chowdhury Gawsia Wahidunnessa , Akash Muntasir , Islam Md Anwarul
Published: July 2016

A study on status and diversity of birds of Ramna Park, Dhaka, Bangladesh was conducted from July 2013 to March 2014. Data were collected through direct field observations where 6 days had been spent in every month in the field. A total of 50 species of birds belonging to 11 orders and 28 families were observed. Of the 50 species, 84% were residents and 16% migrants, 50% were passerines, 50% non-passerines. Passeriformes presented the highest number (25 species) of observed birds. Only Clamator jacobinus was recorded as summer migrant among the migratory birds. We found Psittacula eupatria considered as Near Threatened globally according to IUCN. Corvus splendens was the most common with the highest number of individuals in comparison to other bird species. We observed single individual of Clamator jacobinus followed by Psittacula eupatria and Apus pacificus throughout the study. Regarding the relative abundance, 18% species were very common, 30% common, 16% fairly common and 36% few. Calculating the Shannon-Wiener and Simpsons indices of diversity and species evenness, we found maximum number of species and individuals in the month of December while minimum in the month of July. Anthropogenic activities such as festivals, random assemblies and gatherings, dumping of plastics, polythene and papers, noise from the vehicles were common inside and around the park, which may be threats to birds.Bangladesh J. Zool. 43(2): 291-301, 2015
Abundance of Zooplankton in Ramsagar-Dighi, Dinajpur, Bangladesh
Authors: Akther Sarmin , Ashaduzzaman - , Hossain Md Jakir
Published: July 2016

The present study was carried out from May, 2011 to March, 2012 which deals with the abundance of zooplankton in Ramsagardighi, Dinajpur, Bangladesh. A total of 27 species of 21 genera were recorded in which rotifers were more abundant with 9 genera and 12species followed by copepods with 6 genera and 7 species and cladocerans with 5 genera and 7 species from the study area. A crustacean, nauplius larva was also recorded from the study area. Monthly fluctuation of some physico-chemical parameters was also noted.Bangladesh J. Zool. 43(2): 303-312, 2015
Morphometry of Asian House Shrew (Suncus murinus) in Jahangirnagar University Campus
Authors: Shoma Shamia Farhana , Feeroz Mohammed Mostafa , Hasan Md Kamrul
Published: July 2016

A study was conducted on morphometry of Asian House Shrew, Suncus murinus at Jahangirnagar University campus, Savar, Dhaka from December, 2010 to November, 2011. A total of 85 shrews (55 males and 30 females) were studied for morphometric analysis. The body length of shrews varied from 13cm to 18 cm (mean 15.36, sd±1.17). Males were significantly differed from females in size which made them sexually dimorphic (t = 10.02, df = 83, p< 0.005). The body length of males ranged from 14.5 cm to 18 cm (mean = 16, sd±0.82) and in females it ranged from 13 cm to 15.5 cm (mean = 14.19, sd±0.74). The body weight of shrews varied from 45 gm to 138 gm (mean = 85.52, sd±25.6). The weight of males ranged from 65 gm to 138 gm (mean = 99.6, sd±20.03) whereas the body weight of females ranged from 45 gm to 82 gm (mean = 59.73, sd±10.54). Body length was positively correlated to the body weight (r = 0.917) as well as tail length (r = 0.673) and limbs length (forelimb length, r = 0.875 and hindlimb length, r = 0.971) and found to be significant at 1% level of significance.Bangladesh J. Zool. 43(2): 313-319, 2015
Co-Design: Fundamental Issues and Guidelines for Designers: Beyond the Castle Case Study
Authors: Cruickshank Leon , Coupe Gemma , Hennessy Dee
Published: July 2016

In this paper we describe a high profile project to reimagine a large green space in the heart of the city of Lancaster in the UK. This co-design project involved professional designers, but also 2500 people with 700 of these making an active co-design contribution. This project forms the basis of a discussion of how we used a series of events to help participants reach their full creative co-design potential.From this case study we go on to develop a framework of recommendations to help designers reflect on their normal practice and how they need to operate within a co-design project. These recommendations seek to maximise the benefits of this approach and produce good design outcomes. This framework has been evaluated in a series of international workshops in the UK, Belgium and the Netherlands.
Design thinking and artistic interventions - tools for understanding and developing organizational creativity?
Authors: Haselwanter Oriana , Soila-Wadman Marja
Published: July 2016

Organizations in both the private and public sectors need to find new, creative ways of handling challenges in the complex environments of global competition. Engaging creative professionals like designers and artists - with the aim of developing organizational creativity as a strategic tool - has attracted a lot of interest in different kinds of organizations.In our study, we followed a weekly intervention process led by an artist, within a trade union. The union wanted to bring change to its working processes, with the ultimate goal of increasing membership numbers.The study is based on qualitative methods inspired by ethnography. Creativity, design thinking and artistic intervention literature form the main theoretical framework. Between the members of the workgroup and the artist, we have noticed a lot of discontent and differences in ways of understanding business versus creative goals.We propose that knowledge of design processes, conceptualised in design thinking writings, can help to communicate what is going on during an artistic intervention process, thus narrowing the gap between different understandings. However, a certain amount of friction and conflict will be both necessary and desirable during a creative process.
Rethinking textile fashion: New Materiality, Smart Products, and Upcycling
Authors: Ainamo Antti
Published: July 2016

Manufacturing operations in much of textile fashion have migrated from the developed economies to developing countries in search of cost economies. Consideration for the natural environment has been lost in the process due to lack of clarity what corporation or some other participant in what kind of an economy is most responsible.This paper is intended as a thought piece on how new materialisms offers an approach to bring back responsible concern for the natural environment in textile fashion and, perhaps, beyond.
Information-Aided Smart Schemes for Vehicle Flow Detection Enhancements of Traffic Microwave Radar Detectors
Authors: Ho Tan-Jan , Chung Meng-Ju
Published: July 2016

For satisfactory traffic management of an intelligent transport system, it is vital that traffic microwave radar detectors (TMRDs) can provide real-time traffic information with high accuracy. In this study, we develop several information-aided smart schemes for traffic detection improvements of TMRDs in multiple-lane environments. Specifically, we select appropriate thresholds not only for removing noise from fast Fourier transforms (FFTs) of regional lane contexts but also for reducing FFT side lobes within each lane. The resulting FFTs of reflected vehicle signals and those of clutter are distinguishable. We exploit FFT and lane-/or time stamp-related information for developing smart schemes, which mitigate adverse effects of lane-crossing FFT side lobes of a vehicle signal. As such, the proposed schemes can enhance the detection accuracy of both lane vehicle flow and directional traffic volume. On-site experimental results demonstrate the advantages and feasibility of the proposed methods, and suggest the best smart scheme.
Carbon Nanofibers Grown on Large Woven Cloths: Morphology and Properties of Growth
Authors: Koissin Vitaly , Bor Ton , Kotanjac Željko , Lefferts Leon , Warnet Laurent , Akkerman Remko
Published: July 2016

The morphology and chemical composition of carbon nanofibers in situ grown on a large carbon-fiber woven fabric are studied using SEM measurements, X-ray Diffraction, X-ray Flourescence, and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy. Results show that nanofibers can have a density and a morphology potentially advantageous for application in polymer-matrix composites. The fiber surface functional groups significantly change after the growth and this also potentially provides a better interfacial adhesion. These advantages can be controlled, e.g., by the catalyst loading and the type of solvent used for its deposition.
Mechanical Color Reading of Wood-Staining Fungal Pigment Textile Dyes: An Alternative Method for Determining Colorfastness
Authors: Hinsch Eric , Robinson Sara
Published: July 2016

Colorfastness to washing and crocking (color loss due to rubbing) are essential qualities for any dye/fabric combination that will be used for garments or upholstery. In this study, colorfastness to washing and crocking of fabrics dyed with wood-staining fungal pigments was compared to colorfastness of commercial dyes using an alternative mechanical testing method. Overall, wood-staining fungal pigments out performed commercial dyes for colorfastness to washing and wet and dry crocking. Xylindein was the most colorfast dye. Draconin red yielded inconsistent results, and the yellow pigment required a mordant to achieve any colorfastness. This study showed that the mechanical color reading method, along with statistical analysis, provided an objective, repeatable gauge of colorfastness, although visual inspection is also needed for practical purposes.
Preparation of Three-Dimensional Photonic Crystals of Zirconia by Electrodeposition in a Colloidal Crystals Template
Authors: Pan Lei , Xu Hongbo , Sun Yunyong , Zhao Jiupeng , Li Yao
Published: July 2016

Three-dimensional photonic crystals of zirconia were prepared by electrodeposition in a colloidal crystals template following calcination at 500 °C. Scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, and reflectance spectroscopy were employed to characterize the photonic crystals of zirconia. It was found that hydrated zirconium ions could penetrate the colloidal crystals template and reach the substrate easily by electrodeposition, which resulted in stronger bonding between the substrate and the as-deposited membrane. Moreover, the electrodeposited membrane had low water content, leading to a low amount of shrinkage during calcination. Both these properties could suppress detachment from the substrate upon removal of the colloidal crystals template. Therefore, the three-dimensional photonic crystals of zirconia synthesized in this study exhibited very good preservation of the ordered structures of the colloidal crystals template with a high density. A peak of reflection higher than 70% was formed in the reflectance spectrum because of the strong diffraction of the ordered structures.
MODIS-Based Monthly LST Products over Amazonia under Different Cloud Mask Schemes
Authors: Gomis-Cebolla José , Jiménez-Muñoz Juan , Sobrino José
Published: July 2016

One of the major problems in the monitoring of tropical rainforests using satellite imagery is their persistent cloud coverage. The use of daily observations derived from high temporal resolution sensors, such as Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), could potentially help to mitigate this issue, increasing the number of clear-sky observations. However, the cloud contamination effect should be removed from these results in order to provide a reliable description of these forests. In this study the available MODIS Land Surface Temperature (LST) products have been reprocessed over the Amazon Basin (10 N–20 S, 80 W–45 W) by introducing different cloud masking schemes. The monthly LST datasets can be used for the monitoring of thermal anomalies over the Amazon forests and the analysis of spatial patterns of warming events at higher spatial resolutions than other climatic datasets.
Realizing the Potential of Adolescence to Prevent Transgenerational Conditioning of Noncommunicable Disease Risk: Multi-Sectoral Design Frameworks
Authors: Bay Jacquie , Morton Susan , Vickers Mark
Published: July 2016

Evidence from the field of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) demonstrates that early life environmental exposures impact later-life risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This has revealed the transgenerational nature of NCD risk, thus demonstrating that interventions to improve environmental exposures during early life offer important potential for primary prevention of DOHaD-related NCDs. Based on this evidence, the prospect of multi-sectoral approaches to enable primary NCD risk reduction has been highlighted in major international reports. It is agreed that pregnancy, lactation and early childhood offer significant intervention opportunities. However, the importance of interventions that establish positive behaviors impacting nutritional and non-nutritional environmental exposures in the pre-conceptual period in both males and females, thus capturing the full potential of DOHaD, must not be overlooked. Adolescence, a period where life-long health-related behaviors are established, is therefore an important life-stage for DOHaD-informed intervention. DOHaD evidence underpinning this potential is well documented. However, there is a gap in the literature with respect to combined application of theoretical evidence from science, education and public health to inform intervention design. This paper addresses this gap, presenting a review of evidence informing theoretical frameworks for adolescent DOHaD interventions that is accessible collectively to all relevant sectors.
Noise Exposure of Teachers in Nursery Schools—Evaluation of Measures for Noise Reduction When Dropping DUPLO Toy Bricks into Storage Cases by Sound Analyses
Authors: Gebauer Konstanze , Scharf Thomas , Baumann Uwe , Groneberg David , Bundschuh Matthias
Published: July 2016

Background: Although noise is one of the leading work-related health risk factors for teachers, many nursery schools lack sufficient noise reduction measures. Methods: This intervention study evaluated the noise exposure of nursery school teachers when dropping DUPLO toy bricks into storage cases. Sound analyses of the impact included assessment of the maximum sound pressure level (LAFmax) as well as frequency analyses with 1/3 octave band filter. For the purpose of standardization, a customized gadget was developed. Recordings were performed in 11 cases of different materials and designs to assess the impact on sound level reduction. Thereby, the acoustic effects of three damping materials (foam rubber, carpet, and PU-foam) were investigated. Results: The lowest LAFmax was measured in cases consisting of “metal grid” (90.71 dB) or of a woven willow “basket” (91.61 dB), whereas a case of “aluminium” (103.34 dB) generated the highest impact LAFmax. The frequency analyses determined especially low LAFmax in the frequency bands between 80 and 2500 Hz in cases designs “metal grid” and “basket”. The insertion of PU-foam achieved the most significant attenuation of LAFmax (−13.88 dB) and, in the frequency analyses, the best sound damping. Conclusion: The dropping of DUPLO bricks in cases contributes to the high noise level in nursery schools, but measured LAFmax show no evidence for the danger of acute hearing loss. However, continuous exposure may lead to functional impairment of the hair cells and trigger stress reactions. We recommend noise reduction by utilizing cases of woven “basket” with an insert of PU-foam.
Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption Is Adversely Associated with Childhood Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Yu Ching-Jung , Du Jung-Chieh , Chiou Hsien-Chih , Feng Chun-Cheng , Chung Ming-Yi , Yang Winnie , Chen Ying-Sheue , Chien Ling-Chu , Hwang Betau , Chen Mei-Lien
Published: July 2016

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood neurobehavioral conditions. Evidence of the negative effects of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) on mental health has not been convincing, although a few studies have found an association between high SSB levels and attention problems in children. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that SSB consumption is associated with ADHD among children. Doctor-diagnosed ADHD cases (n = 173) and non-ADHD controls (n = 159) between age 4 to 15 were recruited. SSB consumption, socio-demographic and lifestyle characteristics of the children, as well as of their mothers’ characteristics during pregnancy, were collected using a questionnaire. Blood lead levels and polymorphisms of two commonly verified dopaminergic-related genes (the D4 dopamine receptor gene DRD4 and the dopamine transporter gene DAT1) were also analyzed. There was a dose-response relationship between SSB consumption and ADHD. After covariates were adjusted, children who consumed SSBs at moderate levels and high levels had 1.36 and 3.69 odds, respectively, of having ADHD, compared with those who did not consume SSBs (p for trend < 0.05). Similar results were obtained when females were excluded. Our findings highlighted the adverse correlation between SSB consumption and ADHD and indicated a dose-response effect even after covariates were adjusted.
RETRACTED: Amedei et al. Multiple Sclerosis: The Role of Cytokines in Pathogenesis and in Therapies. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2012, 13, 13438–13460
Authors:   International Journal of Molecular Sciences Editorial Office
Published: July 2016

We have been made aware that the title paper [1] contains text taken verbatim from previously published articles by Shyi-Jou Chen et al. [2] and Ghislain Opdenakker and Jo Van Damme [3].[...]
Molecular Signals Controlling the Inhibition of Nodulation by Nitrate in Medicago truncatula
Authors: Van Noorden Giel , Verbeek Rob , Dinh Quy , Jin Jian , Green Alexandra , Ng Jason , Mathesius Ulrike
Published: July 2016

The presence of nitrogen inhibits legume nodule formation, but the mechanism of this inhibition is poorly understood. We found that 2.5 mM nitrate and above significantly inhibited nodule initiation but not root hair curling in Medicago trunatula. We analyzed protein abundance in M. truncatula roots after treatment with either 0 or 2.5 mM nitrate in the presence or absence of its symbiont Sinorhizobium meliloti after 1, 2 and 5 days following inoculation. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis combined with mass spectrometry was used to identify 106 differentially accumulated proteins responding to nitrate addition, inoculation or time point. While flavonoid-related proteins were less abundant in the presence of nitrate, addition of Nod gene-inducing flavonoids to the Sinorhizobium culture did not rescue nodulation. Accumulation of auxin in response to rhizobia, which is also controlled by flavonoids, still occurred in the presence of nitrate, but did not localize to a nodule initiation site. Several of the changes included defense- and redox-related proteins, and visualization of reactive oxygen species indicated that their induction in root hairs following Sinorhizobium inoculation was inhibited by nitrate. In summary, the presence of nitrate appears to inhibit nodulation via multiple pathways, including changes to flavonoid metabolism, defense responses and redox changes.
Mechanisms Underlying the Immune Response Generated by an Oral Vibrio cholerae Vaccine
Authors: Sirskyj Danylo , Kumar Ashok , Azizi Ali
Published: July 2016

Mechanistic details underlying the resulting protective immune response generated by mucosal vaccines remain largely unknown. We investigated the involvement of Toll-like receptor signaling in the induction of humoral immune responses following oral immunization with Dukoral, comparing wild type mice with TLR-2-, TLR-4-, MyD88- and Trif-deficient mice. Although all groups generated similar levels of IgG antibodies, the proliferation of CD4+ T-cells in response to V. cholerae was shown to be mediated via MyD88/TLR signaling, and independently of Trif signaling. The results demonstrate differential requirements for generation of immune responses. These results also suggest that TLR pathways may be modulators of the quality of immune response elicited by the Dukoral vaccine. Determining the critical signaling pathways involved in the induction of immune response to this vaccine would be beneficial, and could contribute to more precisely-designed versions of other oral vaccines in the future.
Digital Gene Expression Analysis of Ponkan Mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco) in Response to Asia Citrus Psyllid-Vectored Huanglongbing Infection
Authors: Zhong Yun , Cheng Chunzhen , Jiang Bo , Jiang Nonghui , Zhang Yongyan , Hu Minlun , Zhong Guangyan
Published: July 2016

Citrus Huanglongbing (HLB), the most destructive citrus disease, can be transmitted by psyllids and diseased budwoods. Although the final symptoms of the two main HLB transmission ways were similar and hard to distinguish, the host responses might be different. In this study, the global gene changes in leaves of ponkan (Citrus reticulata) mandarin trees following psyllid-transmission of HLB were analyzed at the early symptomatic stage (13 weeks post inoculation, wpi) and late symptomatic stage (26 wpi) using digital gene expression (DGE) profiling. At 13 wpi, 2452 genes were downregulated while only 604 genes were upregulated in HLB infected ponkan leaves but no pathway enrichment was identified. Gene function analysis showed impairment in defense at the early stage of infection. At late stage of 26 wpi, however, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in carbohydrate metabolism, plant defense, hormone signaling, secondary metabolism, transcription regulation were overwhelmingly upregulated, indicating that the defense reactions were eventually activated. The results indicated that HLB bacterial infection significantly influenced ponkan gene expression, and a delayed response of the host to the fast growing bacteria might be responsible for its failure in fighting against the bacteria.
Intra-Articular Injections of Platelet-Rich Plasma versus Hyaluronic Acid in the Treatment of Osteoarthritic Knee Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial in the Context of the Spanish National Health Care System
Authors: Montañez-Heredia Elvira , Irízar Sofia , Huertas Pedro , Otero Esperanza , Del Valle Marta , Prat Isidro , Díaz-Gallardo Macarena , Perán Macarena , Marchal Juan , Hernandez-Lamas María
Published: July 2016

Intra-articular injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been established as a suitable treatment for knee osteoarthritis. Here, we present a double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial, conducted in a public Hospital of the Spanish National Health Care System, to evaluate the efficacy of injecting autologous PRP versus hyaluronic acid (HA) in knee osteoarthritis. PRP was manufactured in Malaga’s Regional Blood Center (Spain). Patients that met the eligibility criteria were randomized into a PRP group or a HA group. Pain and functional improvements were assessed pre- and post-treatment (three and six months follow-up) using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS); the Knee and Osteoarthritis Outcome System (KOOS) scale and the European Quality of Life scale (EUROQOL). Both groups presented pain reduction at six months. The VAS scores for the PRP group improved by at least 50% from their initial value, particularly at three months following the final infiltration, with results resembling those of the HA group at six months. PRP was more effective in patients with lower osteoarthritis grades. Both treatments improved pain in knee osteoarthritis patients without statistically significant differences between them. However, PRP injection was proved to improve pain three months after the final infiltration and to be more effective in lower osteoarthritis grades.
A Non-Invasive Strategy for Neonatal Alloimmune Thrombocytopenia Diagnosis: Newborn Platelet Genotyping with Buccal Swabs
Authors: Bertrand Gérald , Kaplan Cécile
Published: July 2016

Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia results from the maternal immune response against fetal-specific antigens inherited from the father. The diagnosis is ascertained only when the maternal alloantibody and the offending antigen present in the newborn are identified. Up until now most laboratories perform DNA extraction for neonatal genotyping from newborn blood samplings. In order to avoid such an invasive procedure, two protocols of DNA extraction from buccal swabs were developed: a manual protocol using the QIAamp mini blood kit (Qiagen), and an automated procedure with the MagNA Pure Compact instrument (Roche). Both EDTA-blood and buccal swabs from thrombocytopenic newborns were genotyped manually (14 samples), automatically (15 samples) or both manually and automatically (two samples). Human Platelet Antigen (HPA) genotyping was performed using the BeadChip assay (BioArray, Immucor). Concordant genotypings were obtained for all samples except for one swab with the manual method. The automated DNA extraction from newborn buccal swabs with the MagNA Pure Compact instrument was chosen as the first-line strategy, with a significant gain of time in processing buccal swabs.
Triazole Resistance in Aspergillus spp.: A Worldwide Problem?
Authors: Rivero-Menendez Olga , Alastruey-Izquierdo Ana , Mellado Emilia , Cuenca-Estrella Manuel
Published: July 2016

Since the first description of an azole-resistant A. fumigatus strain in 1997, there has been an increasing number of papers describing the emergence of azole resistance. Firstly reported in the USA and soon after in Europe, it has now been described worldwide, challenging the management of human aspergillosis. The main mechanism of resistance is the modification of the azole target enzyme: 14-α sterol demethylase, encoded by the cyp51A gene; although recently, other resistance mechanisms have also been implicated. In addition, a shift in the epidemiology has been noted with other Aspergillus species (mostly azole resistant) increasingly being reported as causative agents of human disease. This paper reviews the current situation of Aspergillus azole resistance and its implications in the clinical setting.
Galactomannan and 1,3-β-d-Glucan Testing for the Diagnosis of Invasive Aspergillosis
Authors: Lamoth Frédéric
Published: July 2016

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a severe complication among hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients or patients with hematological malignancies and neutropenia following anti-cancer therapy. Moreover, IA is increasingly observed in other populations, such as solid-organ transplant recipients, patients with solid tumors or auto-immune diseases, and among intensive care unit patients. Frequent delay in diagnosis is associated with high mortality rates. Cultures from clinical specimens remain sterile in many cases and the diagnosis of IA often only relies on non-specific radiological signs in the presence of host risk factors. Tests for detection of galactomannan- (GM) and 1,3-β-d-glucan (BDG) are useful adjunctive tools for the early diagnosis of IA and may have a role in monitoring response to therapy. However, the sensitivity and specificity of these fungal biomarkers are not optimal and variations between patient populations are observed. This review discusses the role and interpretation of GM and BDG testing for the diagnosis of IA in different clinical samples (serum, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, cerebrospinal fluid) and different groups of patients (onco-hematological patients, solid-organ transplant recipients, other patients at risk of IA).
Special Issue “Spin Crossover (SCO) Research”
Authors: Aromi Guillem , Real José
Published: July 2016

This special issue, entitled “Spin Crossover (SCO) Research”, illustrates the current relevance of a focused topic, which is inturn highly versatile. Indeed, the collection of papers presented constitutes a sampler that shows the topical importance of this area by attracting the interest of many top researchers and how it is approached under a multidisciplinary perspective.[...]
Effects of Surface Structure and Chemical Composition of Binary Ti Alloys on Cell Differentiation
Authors: Han Ok-Sung , Hwang Moon-Jin , Song Yo-Han , Song Ho-Jun , Park Yeong-Joon
Published: July 2016

Binary Ti alloys containing Fe, Mo, V and Zr were micro-arc oxidized and hydrothermally treated to obtain micro- and nano-porous layers. This study aimed to investigate cell differentiation on micro and micro/nanoporous oxide layers of Ti alloys. The properties of the porous layer formed on Ti alloys were characterized by X-ray diffraction pattern, microstructural and elemental analyses and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method. The MTT assay, total protein production and alkaline phosphatase (ALPase) activity were evaluated using human osteoblast-like cells (MG-63). Microporous structures of micro-arc oxidized Ti alloys were changed to micro/nanoporous surfaces after hydrothermal treatment. Micro/nanoporous surfaces consisted of acicular TiO2 nanoparticles and micron-sized hydroxyapatite particles. From ICP and MTT tests, the Mo and V ions released from porous oxide layers were positive for cell viability, while the released Fe ions were negative for cell viability. Although the micro/nanoporous surfaces led to a lower total protein content than the polished and microporous Ti surfaces after cell incubation for 7 days, they caused higher ALPase activities after 7 days and 14 days of incubation except for V-containing microporous surfaces. The micro/nanoporous surfaces of Ti alloys were more efficient in inducing MG-63 cell differentiation.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Benzothiazole Derivatives as Selective PI3Kβ Inhibitors
Authors: Cao Shuang , Cao Ruiyuan , Liu Xialing , Luo Xiang , Zhong Wu
Published: July 2016

A novel series of PI3Kβ (Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinases beta subunit) inhibitors with the structure of benzothiazole scaffold have been designed and synthesized. All the compounds have been evaluated for inhibitory activities against PI3Kα, β, γ, δ and mTOR (Mammalian target of rapamycin). Two superior compounds have been further evaluated for the IC50 values against PI3Ks/mTOR. The most promising compound 11 displays excellent anti-proliferative activity and selectivity in multiple cancer cell lines, especially in the prostate cancer cell line. Docking studies indicate the morpholine group in 2-position of benzothiazole is necessary for the potent antitumor activity, which confirms our design is reasonable.
Survey on Log-Normally Distributed Market-Technical Trend Data
Authors: Brenner René , Maier-Paape Stanislaus
Published: July 2016

In this survey, a short introduction of the recent discovery of log-normally-distributed market-technical trend data will be given. The results of the statistical evaluation of typical market-technical trend variables will be presented. It will be shown that the log-normal assumption fits better to empirical trend data than to daily returns of stock prices. This enables one to mathematically evaluate trading systems depending on such variables. In this manner, a basic approach to an anti-cyclic trading system will be given as an example.
PROBA-V Mission Exploitation Platform
Authors: Goor Erwin , Dries Jeroen , Daems Dirk , Paepen Martine , Niro Fabrizio , Goryl Philippe , Mougnaud Philippe , Della Vecchia Andrea
Published: July 2016

As an extension of the PROBA-Vegetation (PROBA-V) user segment, the European Space Agency (ESA), de Vlaamse Instelling voor Technologisch Onderzoek (VITO), and partners TRASYS and Spacebel developed an operational Mission Exploitation Platform (MEP) to drastically improve the exploitation of the PROBA-V Earth Observation (EO) data archive, the archive from the historical SPOT-VEGETATION mission, and derived products by researchers, service providers, and thematic users. The analysis of the time series of data (petabyte range) is addressed, as well as the large scale on-demand processing of the complete archive, including near real-time data. The platform consists of a private cloud environment, a Hadoop-based processing environment and a data manager. Several applications are released to the users, e.g., a full resolution viewing service, a time series viewer, pre-defined on-demand processing chains, and virtual machines with powerful tools and access to the data. After an initial release in January 2016 a research platform was deployed gradually, allowing users to design, debug, and test applications on the platform. From the PROBA-V MEP, access to, e.g., Sentinel-2 and Sentinel-3 data will be addressed as well.
Mapping Global Forest Aboveground Biomass with Spaceborne LiDAR, Optical Imagery, and Forest Inventory Data
Authors: Hu Tianyu , Su Yanjun , Xue Baolin , Liu Jin , Zhao Xiaoqian , Fang Jingyun , Guo Qinghua
Published: July 2016

As a large carbon pool, global forest ecosystems are a critical component of the global carbon cycle. Accurate estimations of global forest aboveground biomass (AGB) can improve the understanding of global carbon dynamics and help to quantify anthropogenic carbon emissions. Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) techniques have been proven that can accurately capture both horizontal and vertical forest structures and increase the accuracy of forest AGB estimation. In this study, we mapped the global forest AGB density at a 1-km resolution through the integration of ground inventory data, optical imagery, Geoscience Laser Altimeter System/Ice, Cloud, and Land Elevation Satellite data, climate surfaces, and topographic data. Over 4000 ground inventory records were collected from published literatures to train the forest AGB estimation model and validate the resulting global forest AGB product. Our wall-to-wall global forest AGB map showed that the global forest AGB density was 210.09 Mg/ha on average, with a standard deviation of 109.31 Mg/ha. At the continental level, Africa (333.34 ± 63.80 Mg/ha) and South America (301.68 ± 67.43 Mg/ha) had higher AGB density. The AGB density in Asia, North America and Europe were 172.28 ± 94.75, 166.48 ± 84.97, and 132.97 ± 50.70 Mg/ha, respectively. The wall-to-wall forest AGB map was evaluated at plot level using independent plot measurements. The adjusted coefficient of determination (R2) and root-mean-square error (RMSE) between our predicted results and the validation plots were 0.56 and 87.53 Mg/ha, respectively. At the ecological zone level, the R2 and RMSE between our map and Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change suggested values were 0.56 and 101.21 Mg/ha, respectively. Moreover, a comprehensive comparison was also conducted between our forest AGB map and other published regional AGB products. Overall, our forest AGB map showed good agreements with these regional AGB products, but some of the regional AGB products tended to underestimate forest AGB density.
LEA Detection and Tracking Method for Color-Independent Visual-MIMO
Authors: Kim Jai-Eun , Kim Ji-Won , Kim Ki-Doo
Published: July 2016

Communication performance in the color-independent visual-multiple input multiple output (visual-MIMO) technique is deteriorated by light emitting array (LEA) detection and tracking errors in the received image because the image sensor included in the camera must be used as the receiver in the visual-MIMO system. In this paper, in order to improve detection reliability, we first set up the color-space-based region of interest (ROI) in which an LEA is likely to be placed, and then use the Harris corner detection method. Next, we use Kalman filtering for robust tracking by predicting the most probable location of the LEA when the relative position between the camera and the LEA varies. In the last step of our proposed method, the perspective projection is used to correct the distorted image, which can improve the symbol decision accuracy. Finally, through numerical simulation, we show the possibility of robust detection and tracking of the LEA, which results in a symbol error rate (SER) performance improvement.
Stabilization of Gob-Side Entry with an Artificial Side for Sustaining Mining Work
Authors: Wang Hong-sheng , Zhang Dong-sheng , Liu Lang , Guo Wei-bin , Fan Gang-wei , Song KI-IL , Wang Xu-feng
Published: July 2016

A concrete artificial side (AS) is introduced to stabilize a gob-side entry (GSE). To evaluate the stability of the AS, a uniaxial compression failure experiment was conducted with large and small-scale specimens. The distribution characteristics of the shear stress were obtained from a numerical simulation. Based on the failure characteristics and the variation of the shear stress, a failure criterion was determined and implemented in the strengthening method for the artificial side. In an experimental test, the distribution pattern of the maximum shear stress showed an X shape, which contributed to the failure shape of the specimen. The shear stress distribution and failure shape are induced by a combination of two sets of shear stresses, which implies that failure of the AS follows the twin shear strength theory. The use of anchor bolts, bolts, and anchor bars enhances the shear strength of the artificial side. When this side is stable, the components can constrain the lateral deformation as well as improve the internal friction angle and cohesion. When the AS is damaged, the components prevent the sliding of broken blocks along the shear failure plane and improve the residual strength of the artificial side. When reinforced with an anchor bar, the AS is still stable even after mining operations for three years.
Newcastle Disease Virus as a Vaccine Vector for Development of Human and Veterinary Vaccines
Authors: Kim Shin-Hee , Samal Siba
Published: July 2016

Viral vaccine vectors have shown to be effective in inducing a robust immune response against the vaccine antigen. Newcastle disease virus (NDV), an avian paramyxovirus, is a promising vaccine vector against human and veterinary pathogens. Avirulent NDV strains LaSota and B1 have long track records of safety and efficacy. Therefore, use of these strains as vaccine vectors is highly safe in avian and non-avian species. NDV replicates efficiently in the respiratory track of the host and induces strong local and systemic immune responses against the foreign antigen. As a vaccine vector, NDV can accommodate foreign sequences with a good degree of stability and as a RNA virus, there is limited possibility for recombination with host cell DNA. Using NDV as a vaccine vector in humans offers several advantages over other viral vaccine vectors. NDV is safe in humans due to host range restriction and there is no pre-existing antibody to NDV in the human population. NDV is antigenically distinct from common human pathogens. NDV replicates to high titer in a cell line acceptable for human vaccine development. Therefore, NDV is an attractive vaccine vector for human pathogens for which vaccines are currently not available. NDV is also an attractive vaccine vector for animal pathogens.
Regulation of Stress Responses and Translational Control by Coronavirus
Authors: Fung To , Liao Ying , Liu Ding
Published: July 2016

Similar to other viruses, coronavirus infection triggers cellular stress responses in infected host cells. The close association of coronavirus replication with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) results in the ER stress responses, which impose a challenge to the viruses. Viruses, in turn, have come up with various mechanisms to block or subvert these responses. One of the ER stress responses is inhibition of the global protein synthesis to reduce the amount of unfolded proteins inside the ER lumen. Viruses have evolved the capacity to overcome the protein translation shutoff to ensure viral protein production. Here, we review the strategies exploited by coronavirus to modulate cellular stress response pathways. The involvement of coronavirus-induced stress responses and translational control in viral pathogenesis will also be briefly discussed.
Soil Moisture Retrieval Based on GPS Signal Strength Attenuation
Authors: Koch Franziska , Schlenz Florian , Prasch Monika , Appel Florian , Ruf Tobias , Mauser Wolfram
Published: July 2016

Soil moisture (SM) is a highly relevant variable for agriculture, the emergence of floods and a key variable in the global energy and water cycle. In the last years, several satellite missions have been launched especially to derive large-scale products of the SM dynamics on the Earth. However, in situ validation data are often scarce. We developed a new method to retrieve SM of bare soil from measurements of low-cost GPS (Global Positioning System) sensors that receive the freely available GPS L1-band signals. The experimental setup of three GPS sensors was installed at a bare soil field at the German Weather Service (DWD) in Munich for almost 1.5 years. Two GPS antennas were installed within the soil column at a depth of 10 cm and one above the soil. SM was successfully retrieved based on GPS signal strength losses through the integral soil volume. The results show high agreement with measured and modelled SM validation data. Due to its non-destructive, cheap and low power setup, GPS sensor networks could also be used for potential applications in remote areas, aiming to serve as satellite validation data and to support the fields of agriculture, water supply, flood forecasting and climate change.