bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scleromyxedema: long‐term follow‐up after high‐dose melphalan with autologous stem cell transplantation
Authors: Chockalingam Ramya , Duvic Madeleine
Published: May 2016

Background

Scleromyxedema is a cutaneous mucinosis that is often accompanied by severe systemic manifestations. New therapeutic options have been introduced for this condition, but data on the long‐term efficacy of treatments are limited.

Objectives

This study was designed to evaluate the long‐term efficacy and safety of treatment with high‐dose melphalan and autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT).

Methods

In an original study published in 2006, seven patients with scleromyxedema were treated with high‐dose melphalan and autologous PBSCT between April 2000 and November 2003. This follow‐up retrospective study evaluated the long‐term efficacy and safety of the treatment in five of the original seven patients.

Results

Responses were seen in all five patients. Three patients achieved complete responses, and one achieved a partial response. One patient achieved a complete response followed by a partial response after recurrence. Paraprotein levels were stable in two patients. In one patient, paraprotein level was undetectable 10 years following treatment, and in the other two patients, paraprotein levels decreased significantly following treatment. No long‐term complications or adverse effects were noted in any of the patients.

Conclusions

High‐dose melphalan with autologous stem cell transplantation appears to be a safe and effective long‐term treatment in patients with scleromyxedema. However, further studies are required to investigate this in larger groups of patients.
Effect of citric acid esterification conditions on the properties of the obtained resistant starch
Authors: Kapelko‐Żeberska Małgorzata , Zięba Tomasz , Pietrzak Witold , Gryszkin Artur
Published: May 2016

This study was aimed at comparing selected properties of starch citrate obtained from native or retrogrades of potato starch at various temperatures (100, 130 or 160 °C) and at various doses of reactant (10, 20 or 40 g per 100 g). Higher susceptibility to esterification was demonstrated for retrograded starch, whereas the degree of esterification of the produced esters varied considerably (1.4 to 10.0 g per 100 g preparation) and was increasing along with increasing roasting temperature and dose of citric acid. The process of pasting occurred only in the esters obtained at a temperature of 100  °C, which resulted in a significant decrease in swelling power and solubility in water of the citrates produced at higher temperatures. The resultant starch citrates were characterised by significant resistance to amylolysis (ranging from 22 to 100 g per 100 g). There was observed an increase in starch resistance along with the increase in the acid dose and roasting temperature. All analysed properties of starch citrates were not correlated with the degree of esterification, but appeared to depend on the roasting, which may point to a significant effect of this factor on the mechanism of starch cross‐linking with citric acid.
Specific immunotherapy in hepatocellular cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Baradaran Noveiry Behnoud , Hirbod‐Mobarakeh Armin , Khalili Nastaran , Hourshad Niloufar , Greten Tim F , Abou‐Alfa Ghassan K , Rezaei Nima
Published: May 2016

Background and Aim

In recent years, several novel immunotherapeutic approaches were developed and investigated in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We designed this systematic review, to evaluate clinical efficacy of specific immunotherapy in patients with HCC, according to the guidelines of Border of Immune Tolerance Education and Research Network (BITERN) and Cochrane collaboration.

Methods

We searched Medline, Scopus, CENTRAL, TRIP, DART, OpenGrey, and ProQuest through the 9th of December 2015. One author reviewed and retrieved citations from these seven databases for irrelevant and duplicate studies, and two other authors independently extracted data from the studies and rated their quality. We collated study findings and calculated a weighted treatment effect across studies using Review Manager.

Results

We found 12144 references in seven databases of which 21 controlled studies with 1885 HCC patients in different stages were included in this systematic review after the primary and secondary screenings. Overall, patients undergoing specific immunotherapy had significantly higher overall survival than those in control group (HR = 0.59; 95% CI = 0.47–0.76, P < 0.0001). There was a significant difference in recurrence‐free survival between patients undergoing specific immunotherapy and patients in control groups and patients in immunotherapy groups overall had less recurrence than control group (HR = 0.54; 95% CI = 0.46–0.63, P < 0.00001).

Conclusions

Results of this systematic review based on the available literature suggest that overall specific immunotherapeutic approaches could be beneficiary for the treatment of patients with HCC. This further supports the current and ongoing evaluations of specific immunotherapies in the field.
Characterization of Relaxant Responses to Natriuretic Peptides in the Human Microcirculation In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Edvinsson Marie‐Louise , Ahnstedt Hilda , Edvinsson Lars , Andersson Sven E.
Published: May 2016

Objective

We characterized the vasodilatory effects of ANP, BNP, and CNP in human subcutaneous arterioles in vitro and the cutaneous microcirculation in vivo.

Methods

The in vitro experiments were performed using wire myography and the responses were characterized by the use of inhibitors for nitric oxide (L‐NAME), prostaglandin synthesis (indomethacin), or the endothelium‐derived hyperpolarization factor. In vivo, the vasorelaxant effect of iontophoretically administrated BNP or CNP was measured with a noninvasive laser Doppler technique. Involvement of nitric oxide or prostaglandins was assessed by L‐NAME or indomethacin given by iontophoresis.

Results

In vitro all three peptides showed significant vasodilatation with the efficacy order: CNP > BNP = ANP. The BNP‐induced vasodilatation, but not that of ANP or CNP, was significantly reduced by pretreatment with indomethacin or L‐NAME. In vivo administration of BNP induced a marked vasodilatory response that was attenuated by local pretreatment of L‐NAME. Indomethacin by itself resulted in increased cutaneous perfusion.

Conclusions

NPs are potent vasodilators in the human subcutaneous circulation. The response to BNP differs from that of the other peptides as it seems dependent on cyclooxygenase products and nitric oxide.
Pathophysiology of fecal incontinence differs between men and women: a case‐matched study in 200 patients
Authors: Townsend D. C. , Carrington E. V. , Grossi U. , Burgell R. E. , Wong J. Y. J. , Knowles C. H. , Scott S. M.
Published: May 2016

Background

Fecal incontinence (FI) is a common and socially disabling condition with obstetric trauma considered the principal etiological factor. This study aimed to systematically evaluate symptom presentation and anorectal function in both females and males with FI.

Methods

One hundred males (M) and 100 age‐matched females (F) with FI presenting between 2012 and 2014 were identified from a prospectively collected database. Comparison of clinical (history, symptom profile, and severity using validated questionnaires) and anorectal physiological (manometry, rectal sensory testing, endoanal ultrasonography, and evacuation proctography) data between M and F was performed.

Key Results

Incidence of prior anal surgery (M: 28% vs F: 18%, p = 0.13) and abdominal surgery (M: 25% vs F: 26%, p = 0.90) was similar between sexes, but females had a higher incidence of previous pelvic surgery (M: 4% vs F: 47%, p < 0.001). Eighty‐five females were parous and 75% reported history of traumatic vaginal delivery. There was a trend toward higher St Mark's incontinence scores in females (mean ± SD; M: 13 ± 4 vs F: 14 ± 5, p = 0.06). In men, structural sphincter abnormalities were uncommon (M: 37% vs F: 77%, p < 0.001), while impaired rectal sensation (M: 24% vs F: 7%, p = 0.001) and functional disturbances of evacuation (M: 36% vs F: 13%, p = 0.001) were more common than in women. No abnormality on all tests performed was observed in twice as many males (M: 18% vs F: 9%, p = 0.10).

Conclusions & Inferences

Pathophysiological mechanisms of FI differ between sexes. Anal sphincter dysfunction was an uncommon finding in males, with impaired rectal sensation and functional disturbances of evacuation much more prominent than in the female cohort. These findings are likely to impact options for symptom management.
Use of Nonsteroidal Anti‐Inflammatory Drugs for Symptomatic Treatment of Episodic Headache
Authors: Affaitati Giannapia , Martelletti Paolo , Lopopolo Mariangela , Tana Claudio , Massimini Francesca , Cipollone Francesco , Lapenna Domenico , Giamberardino Maria Adele , Costantini Raffaele
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Primary headaches have high epidemiologic impact but their symptomatic treatment often remains problematic. Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are frequently used, but their modality of employment and efficacy/differential efficacy are highly variable. This study investigated current NSAID use for episodic headache at an Italian headache center (January 2000 to February 2013).

Methods

A retrospective evaluation was performed on 6,443 patient records: migraine (n = 2,330), tension‐type headache (TTH; n = 807), and migraine plus TTH (n = 3,306).

Results

Among migraine patients, 80% had used NSAIDs in the past year. Preferences were: nimesulide (57%), ketoprofen (25%), and ibuprofen (24%); complete efficacy was significantly higher than incomplete/absent efficacy (P < 0.0001). NSAIDs were replaced with triptans in 53% of patients at first visit; after 1 year there was a spontaneous significant return to NSAIDs (56%; P < 0.0005). Among TTH patients, 90% were NSAID users; preferences were: nimesulide (48%), ketoprofen (47%), and diclofenac (19%), with significantly higher complete vs. incomplete/absent efficacy (nimesulide and ketoprofen, P < 0.02). Replacement with analgesics was performed in 24% of patients; after 1 year, there was a 29% return to NSAIDs. Among migraine plus TTH patients, 89% were NSAID users. Preferences were: nimesulide (44%), ibuprofen (42%), and ketoprofen (38%), with significantly higher complete vs. incomplete/absent efficacy (0.001 < P < 0.0001). Replacement with analgesics was performed in 31% of patients; after 1 year, there was a 37% return to NSAIDs.

Conclusions

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug use in headache was higher than could be hypothesized based on guidelines, with NSAID preferences not entirely coinciding with international recommendations. This outcome suggests the need for greater awareness of all treatment options in headache by both patients and physicians.
We Refuse to Give up on Nonmaturing Fistulas
Authors: Beathard Gerald A.
Published: May 2016

The nonmaturing arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a major problem and can lead to significant patient morbidity and mortality because the patient is exposed to the risk of dialysis with a central venous catheter (CVC). Access planning should include a strategy to decrease the incidence of AVF nonmaturation. All newly created AVFs should be evaluated for maturation at 4–6 weeks. If it is judged to not be usable at that time, it should be evaluated for salvage. However, if multiple procedures over a prolonged period of time are necessary for salvage, the decreasing chances of long‐term success with the increasing risks of CVC‐based dialysis must be considered. Giving up on the nonmaturing AVF may be in the best interest of the patient.
Grothendieck–Neeman duality and the Wirthmüller isomorphism
Authors: Balmer Paul , Dell’Ambrogio Ivo , Sanders Beren
Published: May 2016

We clarify the relationship between Grothendieck duality à la Neeman and the Wirthmüller isomorphism à la Fausk–Hu–May. We exhibit an interesting pattern of symmetry in the existence of adjoint functors between compactly generated tensor-triangulated categories, which leads to a surprising trichotomy: there exist either exactly three adjoints, exactly five, or infinitely many. We highlight the importance of so-called relative dualizing objects and explain how they give rise to dualities on canonical subcategories. This yields a duality theory rich enough to capture the main features of Grothendieck duality in algebraic geometry, of generalized Pontryagin–Matlis duality à la Dwyer–Greenless–Iyengar in the theory of ring spectra, and of Brown–Comenetz duality à la Neeman in stable homotopy theory.
A New Particle Image Velocimetry Technique for Turbomachinery Applications
Authors: Bhattacharya Sayantan , Berdanier Reid A. , Vlachos Pavlos P. , Key Nicole L.
Published: May 2016

Nonintrusive measurement techniques such as particle image velocimetry (PIV) are growing in both capability and utility for turbomachinery applications. However, the restrictive optical access afforded by multistage research compressors typically requires the use of a periscope probe to introduce the laser sheet for measurements in a rotor passage. This paper demonstrates the capability to perform three-dimensional PIV in a multistage compressor without the need for intrusive optical probes and requiring only line-of-sight optical access. The results collected from the embedded second stage of a three-stage axial compressor highlight the rotor tip leakage flow, and PIV measurements are qualitatively compared with high-frequency response piezoresistive pressure measurements to assess the tip leakage flow identification.
Neuromusculoskeletal Model Calibration Significantly Affects Predicted Knee Contact Forces for Walking
Authors: Serrancolí Gil , Kinney Allison L. , Fregly Benjamin J. , Font-Llagunes Josep M.
Published: May 2016

Though walking impairments are prevalent in society, clinical treatments are often ineffective at restoring lost function. For this reason, researchers have begun to explore the use of patient-specific computational walking models to develop more effective treatments. However, the accuracy with which models can predict internal body forces in muscles and across joints depends on how well relevant model parameter values can be calibrated for the patient. This study investigated how knowledge of internal knee contact forces affects calibration of neuromusculoskeletal model parameter values and subsequent prediction of internal knee contact and leg muscle forces during walking. Model calibration was performed using a novel two-level optimization procedure applied to six normal walking trials from the Fourth Grand Challenge Competition to Predict In Vivo Knee Loads. The outer-level optimization adjusted time-invariant model parameter values to minimize passive muscle forces, reserve actuator moments, and model parameter value changes with (Approach A) and without (Approach B) tracking of experimental knee contact forces. Using the current guess for model parameter values but no knee contact force information, the inner-level optimization predicted time-varying muscle activations that were close to experimental muscle synergy patterns and consistent with the experimental inverse dynamic loads (both approaches). For all the six gait trials, Approach A predicted knee contact forces with high accuracy for both compartments (average correlation coefficient r = 0.99 and root mean square error (RMSE) = 52.6 N medial; average r = 0.95 and RMSE = 56.6 N lateral). In contrast, Approach B overpredicted contact force magnitude for both compartments (average RMSE = 323 N medial and 348 N lateral) and poorly matched contact force shape for the lateral compartment (average r = 0.90 medial and −0.10 lateral). Approach B had statistically higher lateral muscle forces and lateral optimal muscle fiber lengths but lower medial, central, and lateral normalized muscle fiber lengths compared to Approach A. These findings suggest that poorly calibrated model parameter values may be a major factor limiting the ability of neuromusculoskeletal models to predict knee contact and leg muscle forces accurately for walking.
Optimal Design and Control of Wind-Diesel Hybrid Energy Systems for Remote Arctic Mines
Authors: Romero Alberto , Carvalho Monica , Millar Dean L.
Published: May 2016

Mining operations are located in increasingly remote areas in order to search for relatively high-grade mineral deposits, despite the challenges that arise. These challenges are fundamentally logistic and directly impact the profitability of the remote operation. One of the main challenges is energy supply, since locations that lack a power grid, fuel pipelines, or adequate—if existing—road access have substantially increased energy-related operating costs. Today, a remote mine's energy costs add up to 40% of total operating expenses; this is in contrast with grid-connected, accessible mines, where the energy costs seldom reach 20% of the total. In searching for more cost-effective energy supply options, the present work uses the optimal mine site energy supply (OMSES) concept to optimize the design and operation schedule of a remote underground mine's energy supply system (ESS). Energy demand, weather, and economic data were collected and processed, emulating a remote mine in the Northwest Territories, Canada. The optimal energy system minimized the total cost of the energy supply, which included not only the operation cost but also the annuitized capital investment in equipment. Subsequently, the optimal system's design for the considered demands and environmental factors was subject to simulation and control optimization. Wind power was included in the formulation. Issues such as the necessary spinning reserve and the penetration curtailment, among others, were analyzed, both in the design and the control problems. The present work identified potential improvements for the integrated design (ID) and control of a remote mine's energy system, in particular when including a renewable energy resource with a considerable level of variability, i.e., wind. The optimal solution included the installation of two wind turbines (WTs), achieving 3% diesel savings with a 20% increase of investment compared with the conventional design. The model was validated with a real project—the Diavik Diamond Mine ESS, which included a wind farm with four turbines. A model predictive control (MPC) approach was chosen to optimize scheduling in a simulation with variable conditions of wind speed and ambient temperature; this proved to be a convenient method to assess the robustness of optimal designs. Results also confirmed the limitations of design optimization when uncertainties related to wind energy were ignored.
Perceived Outcomes of a Biofeedback and Neurofeedback Training Intervention for Optimal Performance: Learning to Enhance Self-Awareness and Self-Regulation With Olympic Athletes
Authors: Dupee Margaret , Forneris Tanya , Werthner Penny
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this study was to explore the perceived outcomes of a biofeedback and neurofeedback training intervention with high performance athletes. Five Olympic level athletes preparing for world championships and the 2012 Olympic Games took part in a 20 session intervention over the period of one year. At the completion of the intervention, a semistructured interview was conducted with each athlete. The athletes indicated that they became more self-aware, were better able to self-regulate both their physiological and psychological states, developed a greater sense of personal control, and a greater understanding of skills inherent in the field of sport psychology. Three of the athletes made the Canadian Olympic team for the 2012 Olympic Games and two of those athletes won bronze medals. The present study suggests that biofeedback and neurofeedback training may be useful in enabling athletes to perform optimally, in both training and competition, on a consistent basis.
Effects of Intertidal Harvest Practices on Levels of Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus Bacteria in Oysters
Authors: Jones J. L. , Kinsey T. P. , Johnson L. W. , Porso R. , Friedman B. , Curtis M. , Wesighan P. , Schuster R. , Bowers J. C.
Published: May 2016

Vibrio parahaemolyticusandVibrio vulnificuscan grow rapidly in shellfish subjected to ambient air conditions, such as during intertidal exposure. In this study, levels of total and pathogenic (tdh+and/ortrh+)V. parahaemolyticusand totalV. vulnificuswere determined in oysters collected from two study locations where intertidal harvest practices are common. Samples were collected directly off intertidal flats, after exposure (ambient air [Washington State] or refrigerated [New Jersey]), and after reimmersion by natural tidal cycles. Samples were processed using a most-probable-number (MPN) real-time PCR method for total and pathogenicV. parahaemolyticusorV. vulnificus. In Washington State, the mean levels ofV. parahaemolyticusincreased 1.38 log MPN/g following intertidal exposure and dropped 1.41 log MPN/g after reimmersion for 1 day, but the levels were dependent upon the container type utilized. PathogenicV. parahaemolyticuslevels followed a similar trend. However,V. vulnificuslevels increased 0.10 log MPN/g during intertidal exposure in Washington but decreased by >1 log MPN/g after reimmersion. In New Jersey, initial levels of all vibrios studied were not significantly altered during the refrigerated sorting and containerizing process. However, there was an increase in levels after the first day of reimmersion by 0.79, 0.72, 0.92, and 0.71 log MPN/g for total,tdh+andtrh+V. parahaemolyticus, andV. vulnificus, respectively. The levels of all targets decreased to those similar to background after a second day of reimmersion. These data indicate that the intertidal harvest and handling practices for oysters that were studied in Washington and New Jersey do not increase the risk of illness fromV. parahaemolyticusorV. vulnificus.

IMPORTANCEVibrio parahaemolyticusandVibrio vulnificusare the leading causes of seafood-associated infectious morbidity and mortality in the United States.Vibriospp. can grow rapidly in shellfish subjected to ambient air conditions, such as during periods of intertidal exposure. When oysters are submersed with the incoming tide, the vibrios can be purged. However, data on the rates of increase and purging during intertidal harvest are scarce, which limits the accuracy of risk assessments. The objective of this study was to help fill these data gaps by determining the levels of total and pathogenic (tdh+and/ortrh+)V. parahaemolyticusandV. vulnificusin oysters from two locations where intertidal harvest practices are common, using the current industry practices. The data generated provide insight into the responses ofVibriospp. to relevant practices of the industry and public health, which can be incorporated into risk management decisions.
Transcriptomic Responses of the Interactions between Clostridium cellulovorans 743B and Rhodopseudomonas palustris CGA009 in a Cellulose-Grown Coculture for Enhanced Hydrogen Production
Authors: Lu Hongyuan , Chen Jiahua , Jia Yangyang , Cai Mingwei , Lee Patrick K. H.
Published: May 2016

Coculturing dark- and photofermentative bacteria is a promising strategy for enhanced hydrogen (H
2
) production. In this study, next-generation sequencing was used to query the global transcriptomic responses of an artificial coculture of
Clostridium cellulovorans
743B and
Rhodopseudomonas palustris
CGA009. By analyzing differentially regulated gene expression, we showed that, consistent with the physiological observations of enhanced H
2
production and cellulose degradation, the nitrogen fixation genes in
R. palustris
and the cellulosomal genes in
C. cellulovorans
were upregulated in cocultures. Unexpectedly, genes related to H
2
production in
C. cellulovorans
were downregulated, suggesting that the enhanced H
2
yield was contributed mainly by
R. palustris
. A number of genes related to biosynthesis of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) in
C. cellulovorans
were upregulated, and correspondingly, a gene that mediates organic compound catabolism in
R. palustris
was also upregulated. Interestingly, a number of genes responsible for chemotaxis in
R. palustris
were upregulated, which might be elicited by the VFA concentration gradient created by
C. cellulovorans
. In addition, genes responsible for sulfur and thiamine metabolism in
C. cellulovorans
were downregulated in cocultures, and this could be due to a response to pH changes. A conceptual model illustrating the interactions between the two organisms was constructed based on the transcriptomic results.

IMPORTANCE
The findings of this study have important biotechnology applications for biohydrogen production using renewable cellulose, which is an industrially and economically important bioenergy process. Since the molecular characteristics of the interactions of a coculture when cellulose is the substrate are still unclear, this work will be of interest to microbiologists seeking to better understand and optimize hydrogen-producing coculture systems.
Transcriptomes of the Extremely Thermoacidophilic Archaeon Metallosphaera sedula Exposed to Metal “Shock” Reveal Generic and Specific Metal Responses
Authors: Wheaton Garrett H. , Mukherjee Arpan , Kelly Robert M.
Published: May 2016

The extremely thermoacidophilic archaeonMetallosphaera sedulamobilizes metals by novel membrane-associated oxidase clusters and, consequently, requires metal resistance strategies. This issue was examined by “shocking”M. sedulawith representative metals (Co2+, Cu2+, Ni2+, UO22+, Zn2+) at inhibitory and subinhibitory levels. Collectively, one-quarter of the genome (554 open reading frames [ORFs]) responded to inhibitory levels, and two-thirds (354) of the ORFs were responsive to a single metal. Cu2+(259 ORFs, 106 Cu2+-specific ORFs) and Zn2+(262 ORFs, 131 Zn2+-specific ORFs) triggered the largest responses, followed by UO22+(187 ORFs, 91 UO22+-specific ORFs), Ni2+(93 ORFs, 25 Ni2+-specific ORFs), and Co2+(61 ORFs, 1 Co2+-specific ORF). While one-third of the metal-responsive ORFs are annotated as encoding hypothetical proteins, metal challenge also impacted ORFs responsible for identifiable processes related to the cell cycle, DNA repair, and oxidative stress. Surprisingly, there were only 30 ORFs that responded to at least four metals, and 10 of these responded to all five metals. This core transcriptome indicated induction of Fe-S cluster assembly (Msed_1656-Msed_1657), tungsten/molybdenum transport (Msed_1780-Msed_1781), and decreased central metabolism. Not surprisingly, a metal-translocating P-type ATPase (Msed_0490) associated with a copper resistance system (Cop) was upregulated in response to Cu2+(6-fold) but also in response to UO22+(4-fold) and Zn2+(9-fold). Cu2+challenge uniquely induced assimilatory sulfur metabolism for cysteine biosynthesis, suggesting a role for this amino acid in Cu2+resistance or issues in sulfur metabolism. The results indicate thatM. sedulaemploys a range of physiological and biochemical responses to metal challenge, many of which are specific to a single metal and involve proteins with yet unassigned or definitive functions.

IMPORTANCEThe mechanisms by which extremely thermoacidophilic archaea resist and are negatively impacted by metals encountered in their natural environments are important to understand so that technologies such as bioleaching, which leverage microbially based conversion of insoluble metal sulfides to soluble species, can be improved. Transcriptomic analysis of the cellular response to metal challenge provided both global and specific insights into how these novel microorganisms negotiate metal toxicity in natural and technological settings. As genetics tools are further developed and implemented for extreme thermoacidophiles, information about metal toxicity and resistance can be leveraged to create metabolically engineered strains with improved bioleaching characteristics.
Nanomineralogy as a new dimension in understanding elusive geochemical processes in soils: The case of low-solubility-index elements
Authors: Schindler Michael , Hochella Michael F.
Published: May 2016

Nanomineralogical studies of mineral surface coatings in soils reveal insights into biogeochemical processes that heretofore were not known to exist. This is a new dimension in understanding past and present biogeochemical processes in soils, and in this study it is a way to better understand the behavior of low-solubility-index elements such as Al, Ti, and Zr. Soils were sampled from selected sites in Sudbury (Ontario, Canada) that have been affected by acidification and particulate matter emissions from base-metal smelters with subsequent remediation within the past century. These anthropogenic processes have affected an entire landscape, but are now recorded in assemblages of nano-size phases that can be only studied using a combination of focused ion beam technology (for sample preparation) and high-resolution analytical transmission electron microscopy (for phase identification). A first generation of clay minerals (pre-acidification phase), their partial replacement by nano-size hematite and amorphous silica (anthropogenic acidification), and a second generation of clay minerals (post-acidification, including soil remediation) are products of changes in soil biogeochemical processes during these natural and anthropogenic-induced weathering stages. Complex assemblages of nanophases formed prior to the second generation of clay minerals depict underlying mechanisms for the mobilization and sequestration of the low-solubility-index elements Zr and Ti under acidic conditions. The occurrence of baddeleyite (ZrO2), anatase (TiO2), and the Magneli phases Ti4O7 and Ti5O9 (all present at the nanoscale) suggest an influx of nanocolloidal Zr and Ti oxides during weathering of smelter-derived particulate matter. Kelyshite {NaZr[Si2O6(OH)]}, authigenic zircon (ZrSiO4), and kleberite [Fe3+Ti6O11(OH)5] are most likely products of the sequestration of the Zr- and Ti-bearing nanocolloids.
Patient education interventions to improve physical activity in patients with intermittent claudication: a protocol for a systematic mixed-studies review
Authors: Abaraogu Ukachukwu Okoroafor , Dall Philippa Margaret , Seenan Christopher Andrew
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and intermittent claudication (IC) decrease an individual's capacity to engage in physical activity (PA) with potentially negative effects on PA behaviour. Strategies to improve PA among this population may provide a range of positive health benefits. We present a protocol to assess the components of patient education interventions that improve PA capacity and PA behaviour in patients with PAD and IC.

Methods and analysis

Published peer-reviewed studies will be searched in the following databases: CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, OVID, ProQuest, AMED, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science Core Collection and PEDro, to identify literature investigating the effect of patient education on PA of patients with PAD and IC, or studies that investigated patients' perceptions or experience with these interventions. Two authors will independently perform screening for study eligibility, result synthesis and then appraise study quality. For interventions without follow-up, primary outcome measures will include change in PA capacity, or change in free-living PA behaviour; where there was a follow-up postintervention, the primary outcome will be rate of adherence to PA behaviour improvement. A three-phase sequential explanatory synthesis of mixed studies will be employed to answer the research questions. Homogenous quantitative data will be analysed using a random-effects model of meta-analysis with results presented as relative risk for dichotomous outcomes and as weighted or standardised means for continuous outcomes. Qualitative data will be analysed using thematic synthesis. This review protocol is reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) 2015 guidelines.

Trial registration number

CRD42015027314.
Autologous bone marrow aspirate for treatment of superficial digital flexor tendonitis in 105 racehorses
Authors: Russell J. W. , Russell T. M. , Vasey J. R. , Hall M. S.
Published: May 2016

To evaluate a treatment protocol whereby superficial digital flexor (SDF) tendonitis in Thoroughbred and Standardbred racehorses was treated with autologous bone marrow aspirate (ABMA) obtained from the sternebrae. This treatment was combined with desmotomy of the accessory ligament of the SDF tendon (DAL‐SDFT) in selected cases. Medical records of 105 horses treated using the reported protocol were reviewed. Signalment, history and details of treatment were recorded. Racing records were reviewed and performance recorded. Of Thoroughbreds, 82 per cent had one or more starts within the follow‐up period and 59 per cent had five or more starts. Of Standardbreds, 76 per cent had one or more starts and 62 per cent had five or more starts. A statistically significant difference was found when comparing race starts between sexes, with females having less starts than males (≥1start P=0.017 and ≥5 starts P=0.008, respectively). The proportions of horses having one or more starts and five or more starts did not differ significantly if a DAL‐SDFT was performed or not (P=0.31 and 0.63, respectively). Horses with a core lesion in the body of the SDFT have a good prognosis for return to racing following intralesional ABMA injection. Addition of DAL‐SDFT to the treatment regimen did not significantly influence outcome.
Grover’s search with local and total depolarizing channel errors: Complexity analysis
Authors: Cohn Ilan , De Oliveira André L. Fonseca , Buksman Efrain , De Lacalle Jesús García López
Published: May 2016

In this paper, the effect of noise on Grover’s algorithm is analyzed, modeled as a total depolarizing channel (TDCh) and a local depolarizing channel (LDCh) in each qubit. The focus was not in error correction (e.g. by the fault-tolerant method), but to provide an insight to the kind of error, or degradation, that needs to be corrected. In the last years, analytical results regarding mainly the TDCh model have been obtained. In this paper, we extend these previous results to the local case, concluding that the degradation of Grover’s algorithm with the latter is worse than the former. It has been shown that for both cases with an N-dependent small enough error-width, smaller than [Formula: see text] for total error and [Formula: see text] for the local case, correction is not needed.
Small membrane permeable molecules protect against osmotically induced sealing of t-tubules in mouse ventricular myocytes
Authors: Uchida Keita , Moench Ian , Tamkus Greta , Lopatin Anatoli N.
Published: May 2016

Cardiac t-tubules are critical for efficient excitation-contraction coupling but become significantly remodeled during various stress conditions. However, the mechanisms by which t-tubule remodeling occur are poorly understood. Recently, we demonstrated that recovery of mouse ventricular myocytes after hyposmotic shock is associated with t-tubule sealing. In this study, we found that the application of Small Membrane Permeable Molecules (SMPM) such as DMSO, formamide and acetamide upon washout of hyposmotic solution significantly reduced the amount of extracellular dextran trapped within sealed t-tubules. The SMPM protection displayed sharp biphasic concentration dependence that peaks at ∼140 mM leading to >3- to 4-fold reduction in dextran trapping. Consistent with these data, detailed analysis of the effects of DMSO showed that the magnitude of normalized inward rectifier tail current ( IK1,tail), an electrophysiological marker of t-tubular integrity, was increased ∼2-fold when hyposmotic stress was removed in the presence of 1% DMSO (∼140 mM). Analysis of dynamics of cardiomyocytes shrinking during resolution of hyposmotic stress revealed only minor increase in shrinking rate in the presence of 1% DMSO, and cell dimensions returned fully to prestress values in both control and DMSO groups. Application and withdrawal of 10% DMSO in the absence of preceding hyposmotic shock induced classical t-tubule sealing. This suggests that the biphasic concentration dependence originated from an increase in secondary t-tubule sealing when high SMPM concentrations are removed. Overall, the data suggest that SMPM protect against sealing of t-tubules following hyposmotic stress, likely through membrane modification and essentially independent of their osmotic effects.
Steamed and Fermented Ethanolic Extract from Codonopsis lanceolata Attenuates Amyloid‐β‐Induced Memory Impairment in Mice
Authors: Weon Jin Bae , Eom Min Rye , Jung Youn Sik , Hong Eun-Hye , Ko Hyun-Jeong , Lee Hyeon Yong , Park Dong-Sik , Ma Choong Je
Published: May 2016

Codonopsis lanceolata (C. lanceolata) is a traditional medicinal plant used for the treatment of certain inflammatory diseases such as asthma, tonsillitis, and pharyngitis. We evaluated whether steamed and fermented C. lanceolata (SFC) extract improves amyloid‐β‐ (Aβ‐) induced learning and memory impairment in mice. The Morris water maze and passive avoidance tests were used to evaluate the effect of SFC extract. Moreover, we investigated acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), cyclic AMP response element‐binding protein (CREB), and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) signaling in the hippocampus of mice to determine a possible mechanism for the cognitive‐enhancing effect. Saponin compounds in SFC were identified by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography‐Quadrupole‐Time‐of‐Flight Mass Spectrometry (UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS). SFC extract ameliorated amyloid‐β‐induced memory impairment in the Morris water maze and passive avoidance tests. SFC extract inhibited AChE activity and also significantly increased the level of CREB phosphorylation, BDNF expression, and ERK activation in hippocampal tissue of amyloid‐β‐treated mice. Lancemasides A, B, C, D, E, and G and foetidissimoside A compounds present in SFC were determined by UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS. These results indicate that SFC extract improves Aβ‐induced memory deficits and that AChE inhibition and CREB/BDNF/ERK expression is important for the effect of the SFC extract. In addition, lancemaside A specifically may be responsible for efficacious effect of SFC.
CommutativeC⁎-Algebras of Toeplitz Operators via the Moment Map on the Polydisk
Authors: Hernández-Marroquin Mauricio , Sánchez-Nungaray Armando , Dupont-García Luis Alfredo
Published: May 2016

We found that in the polydiskDnthere exist(n+1)(n+2)/2different classes of commutativeC⁎-algebras generated by Toeplitz operators whose symbols are invariant under the action of maximal Abelian subgroups of biholomorphisms. On the other hand, using the moment map associated with each (not necessary maximal) Abelian subgroup of biholomorphism we introduced a family of symbols given by the moment map such that theC⁎-algebra generated by Toeplitz operators with this kind of symbol is commutative. Thus we relate to each Abelian subgroup of biholomorphisms a commutativeC⁎-algebra of Toeplitz operators.
Improvement of Amniotic Membrane Method for the Treatment of Corneal Perforation
Authors: Fan Junhua , Wang Meihua , Zhong Fulu
Published: May 2016

In our retrospective study we evaluated the efficacy of an improved amniotic membrane (AM) roll-in filling technique (AMR) combined with multilayer amniotic membrane cover to treat corneal perforation and included 46 cornea perforations ≤ 3 mm in diameter treated with AMR and 20% C3F8mixed gas filling of the anterior chamber. Anterior chamber depth, aqueous leakage, bubble maintenance time, and cornea morphology were monitored after each operation. The mean diameter of corneal perforation was1.60±0.55 mm (range 0.5–3) and the success rate of the AMR method for corneal perforation reconstruction was 100% after a single operation. Anterior chamber depth was normally reconstructed without AMR break-off, aqueous leak, or other complications. The mean time of the C3F8gas bubble in the anterior chamber was8.6±2.0days (range 4–12). At the last follow-up, all patients’ visual acuity was improved to varying degrees. The mean follow-up time was11.0±5.6months (range 3–36). The AMR plugging combined with multilayer AM cover is a secure and easy intervention, which led to 100% success in our study. Various perforations ranging from trauma to infection can be treated with AMR, which is especially practical in those countries where donor cornea availability is limited.
General Quadratic-Additive Type Functional Equation and Its Stability
Authors: Lee Yang-Hi , Jung Soon-Mo
Published: May 2016

We investigate the general functional equation of the formf(ax+by+cz)-abf(x+y)-bcf(y+z)−acf(x+z)-a((a+1)/2-b-c)f(x)-b((b+1)/2-a-c)f(y)-c((c+1)/2-a-b)f(z)-(a(a-1)/2)f(-x)−(b(b-1)/2)f(-y)-(c(c-1)/2)f(-z)=0, whose solutions are quadratic-additive mappings in connection with stability problems.
Probabilistic Analysis of Steady-State Temperature and Maximum Frequency of Multicore Processors considering Workload Variation
Authors: Zhang Biying , Fu Zhongchuan , Chen Hongsong , Cui Gang
Published: May 2016

A probabilistic method is presented to analyze the temperature and the maximum frequency for multicore processors based on consideration of workload variation, in this paper. Firstly, at the microarchitecture level, dynamic powers are modeled as the linear function of IPCs (instructions per cycle), and leakage powers are approximated as the linear function of temperature. Secondly, the microarchitecture-level hotspot temperatures of both active cores and inactive cores are derived as the linear functions of IPCs. The normal probabilistic distribution of hotspot temperatures is derived based on the assumption that IPCs of all cores follow the same normal distribution. Thirdly and lastly, the probabilistic distribution of the set of discrete frequencies is determined. It can be seen from the experimental results that hotspot temperatures of multicore processors are not deterministic and have significant variations, and the number of active cores and running frequency simultaneously determine the probabilistic distribution of hotspot temperatures. The number of active cores not only results in different probabilistic distribution of frequencies, but also leads to different probabilities for triggering DFS (dynamic frequency scaling).
Development of a Layout Model Suitable for the Food Processing Industry
Authors: Wanniarachchi W. N. C. , Gopura R. A. R. C. , Punchihewa H. K. G.
Published: May 2016

The food processing industry is a subset of the manufacturing sector with unique challenges. Among these, ensuring food hygiene and preventing contamination are two issues of prime importance. Hence, designers have to overcome such challenges when designing facilities suitable for food processing. The paper formulates a model that simplifies the layout planning process for the food processing facilities (FPF) in order to help the designers. A generalised framework that helps to visualise the Facilities Layout Problem (FLP) was initially developed. A layout model for FPF was then developed considering the unique features that need to be present in the layout. The model classifies the areas of FPF into five: primary, secondary, utilities, warehouse, and administration based on the activities and the level of risk present in food processing. It further proposes specific locations for the five sections in the factory layout. In order to test the performance of the framework and the model, a case study was conducted in a malted milk powder processing facility in Sri Lanka by changing its layout according to the proposed model. The framework and the model showed promise in its implementation. However, the approach and the layout model need to be evaluated in further cases in order to ascertain their usability and performance.
Lipid Reconstitution-Enabled Formation of Gold Nanoparticle Clusters for Mimetic Cellular Membrane
Authors: Nam Jiyoung , Kim Yong-Tae , Kang Aeyeon , Kim Kook-Han , Lee KyoRee , Yun Wan Soo , Kim Yong Ho
Published: May 2016

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) encapsulated within reconstituted phospholipid bilayers have been utilized in various bioapplications due to their improved cellular uptake without compromising their advantages. Studies have proved that clustering AuNPs can enhance the efficacy of theranostic effects, but controllable aggregation or oligomerization of AuNPs within lipid membranes is still challenging. Here, we successfully demonstrate the formation of gold nanoparticle clusters (AuCLs), supported by reconstituted phospholipid bilayers with appropriate sizes for facilitating cellular uptake. Modulation of the lipid membrane curvatures influences not only the stability of the oligomeric state of the AuCLs, but also the rate of cellular uptake. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) data showed that 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (POPE), with its relatively small head group, is crucial for establishing an effective membrane curvature to encapsulate the AuCLs. The construction of phospholipid bilayers surrounding AuCLs was confirmed by analyzing the secondary structure of M2 proteins incorporated in the lipid membrane surrounding the AuCLs. When AuCLs were incubated with cells, accumulated clusters were found inside the cells without the lipids being removed or exchanged with the cellular membrane. We expect that our approach of clustering gold nanoparticles within lipid membranes can be further developed to design a versatile nanoplatform.
Socioeconomic Status and Hypertension among Teachers and Bankers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Fikadu Girma , Lemma Seblewengel
Published: May 2016

Background. The social and economic changes taking place in developing countries are influencing the pace at which hypertension and its risk factors are expanding. As opposed to the already established inverse association in developed nations, the association between socioeconomic status and hypertension in developing countries is poor and inconsistent. This study aims to determine the association between socioeconomic status and hypertension among teachers and bankers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.Methods. This study is based on a cross-sectional study conducted to assess the prevalence of NCDs in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The study was undertaken among workers of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia and teachers of public schools in 2010.Results. Majority of participants were teachers (70.3%). Most of the respondents (54.1%) earn an annual income between 15,000 ETB and 48,000 ETB, and 51.9% of them have educational status of first degree and above. Among the socioeconomic factors income was strongly associated with the odds of having hypertension (AOR: 2.17 with 95% CI: 1.58–2.98).Conclusions. Higher burden of hypertension is observed among teachers and bankers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Promotion of healthy behaviors and interventions that target higher income groups needs to be put in place.