bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compact Microstrip Bandpass Diplexer Based on Twist Revised Split Ring Resonators
Authors: Li Jian , Huang Yongjun , Zhao Xuefeng , Wen Guangjun
Published: October 2015

Based on the twist revised split ring resonators (TR-SRRs) inspired filter unit a microstrip bandpass diplexer with highly compact size and high frequency selection and isolation properties is synthesized and systematically characterized. The proposed filter unit exhibits both electric and magnetic coupling effects and possesses two resonance modes (magnetic and electronic resonances). The two resonance modes can be flexibly controlled by adjusting the gap between the two TR-SRRs. The synthesized diplexer has very simple configuration with size of0.217λd×0.217λdand degree of freedom for impedance matching. Measurement and simulation demonstrations are performed in this paper and a good agreement is achieved. The measured results indicate two quite close frequency channels (centered at 2.16 GHz and 2.91 GHz) with isolation larger than 30 dB. The proposed diplexer can be easily integrated into miniaturized RF/microwave integrated circuits.
Improved Generalized Force Model considering the Comfortable Driving Behavior
Authors: Xu De-Jie , Mao Bao-Hua , Chen Shao-Kuan , Bai Yun
Published: October 2015

This paper presents an improved generalized force model (IGFM) that considers the driver’s comfortable driving behavior. Through theoretical analysis, we propose the calculation methods of comfortable driving distance and velocity. Then the stability condition of the model is obtained by the linear stability analysis. The problems of the unrealistic acceleration of the leading car existing in the previous models were solved. Furthermore, the simulation results show that IGFM can predict correct delay time of car motion and kinematic wave speed at jam density, and it can exactly describe the driver’s behavior under an urgent case, where no collision occurs. The dynamic properties of IGFM also indicate that stability has improved compared to the generalized force model.
Protective Effects of Cilastatin against Vancomycin-Induced Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Humanes Blanca , Jado Juan Carlos , Camaño Sonia , López-Parra Virginia , Torres Ana María , Álvarez-Sala Luís Antonio , Cercenado Emilia , Tejedor Alberto , Lázaro Alberto
Published: October 2015

Vancomycin is a very effective antibiotic for treatment of severe infections. However, its use in clinical practice is limited by nephrotoxicity. Cilastatin is a dehydropeptidase I inhibitor that acts on the brush border membrane of the proximal tubule to prevent accumulation of imipenem and toxicity. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential protective effect of cilastatin on vancomycin-induced apoptosis and toxicity in cultured renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (RPTECs). Porcine RPTECs were cultured in the presence of vancomycin with and without cilastatin. Vancomycin induced dose-dependent apoptosis in cultured RPTECs, with DNA fragmentation, cell detachment, and a significant decrease in mitochondrial activity. Cilastatin prevented apoptotic events and diminished the antiproliferative effect and severe morphological changes induced by vancomycin. Cilastatin also improved the long-term recovery and survival of RPTECs exposed to vancomycin and partially attenuated vancomycin uptake by RPTECs. On the other hand, cilastatin had no effects on vancomycin-induced necrosis or the bactericidal effect of the antibiotic. This study indicates that cilastatin protects against vancomycin-induced proximal tubule apoptosis and increases cell viability, without compromising the antimicrobial effect of vancomycin. The beneficial effect could be attributed, at least in part, to decreased accumulation of vancomycin in RPTECs.
Genetic Predictors of Poor Prognosis in Portuguese Patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Data from Reuma.pt
Authors: Mourão Ana Filipa , Santos Maria José , Mendonça Sílvia , Oliveira-Ramos Filipa , Salgado Manuel , Estanqueiro Paula , Melo-Gomes José , Martins Fernando , Lopes Ana , Bettencourt Bruno Filipe , Bruges-Armas Jácome , Costa José , Furtado Carolina , Figueira Ricardo , Brito Iva , Branco Jaime , Fonseca João Eurico , Canhão Helena
Published: October 2015

Introduction.This study aimed to assess the genetic determinants of poor outcome in Portuguese patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).Methods.Our study was conducted in Reuma.pt, the Rheumatic Diseases Portuguese Register, which includes patients with JIA. We collected prospectively patient and disease characteristics and a blood sample for DNA analysis. Poor prognosis was defined as CHAQ/HAQ >0.75 at the last visit and/or the treatment with biological therapy. A selected panel of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with susceptibility was studied to verify if there was association with poor prognosis.Results.Of the 812 patients with JIA registered in Reuma.pt, 267 had a blood sample and registered information used to define “poor prognosis.” In univariate analysis, we found significant associations with poor prognosis for allele A ofTNFA1P3/20rs6920220, allele G ofTRAF1/C5rs3761847, and allele G ofPTPN2rs7234029. In multivariate models, the associations withTRAF1/C5(1.96 [1.17–3.3]) remained significant at the 5% level, whileTNFA1P3/20andPTPN2were no longer significant. Nevertheless, none of associations found was significant after the Bonferroni correction was applied.Conclusion.Our study does not confirm the association between a panel of selected SNP and poor prognosis in Portuguese patients with JIA.
Public Concern about the Sale of High-Caffeine Drinks to Children 12 Years or Younger: An Australian Regulatory Perspective
Authors: Pollard Christina Mary , McStay Catrina Lisa , Meng Xingqiong
Published: October 2015

Background.Dietary exposure to high caffeine is a health risk for children. Governments are considering measures to restrict the sale of formulated caffeinated beverages (FCB) to children.Objectives.To investigate community concern about sales of high-caffeine drinks to children among Western Australian adults and describe Australian and New Zealand regulatory processes regarding FCB.Methods.Data from the 2009 and 2012 Department of Health’s Nutrition Monitoring Survey Series of 2,832 Western Australians aged 18–64 years was pooled with descriptive and ordinal logistic regression analysis performed. Current regulatory processes for FCB are reported.Results.Most (85%) participants were concerned about the sale of high-caffeine drinks to children; 77.4% were very concerned in 2012 compared to 66.5% in 2009,p< .008. Females and those living with children had higher concern (odds ratio (OR) 2.11; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.44–3.10; OR 2.16; 95% CI 1.51–3.09, resp.,p< .001). Concern increased with each year of age (OR 1.04; 95% CI 1.02, 1.05,p< .001).Conclusions.Community concern regarding sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to children is high and increasing. Being female and living with children were associated with greater concern. These findings support the Australian and New Zealand regulatory controls of FCB, including labelling, promotion, and advertising to children.
An Efficient Robust Eye Localization by Learning the Convolution Distribution Using Eye Template
Authors: Li Xuan , Dou Yong , Niu Xin , Xu Jiaqing , Xiao Ruorong
Published: October 2015

Eye localization is a fundamental process in many facial analyses. In practical use, it is often challenged by illumination, head pose, facial expression, occlusion, and other factors. It remains great difficulty to achieve high accuracy with short prediction time and low training cost at the same time. This paper presents a novel eye localization approach which explores only one-layer convolution map by eye template using a BP network. Results showed that the proposed method is robust to handle many difficult situations. In experiments, accuracy of 98% and 96%, respectively, on the BioID and LFPW test sets could be achieved in 10 fps prediction rate with only 15-minute training cost. In comparison with other robust models, the proposed method could obtain similar best results with greatly reduced training time and high prediction speed.
Influence of Glass Powder on Hydration Kinetics of Composite Cementitious Materials
Authors: Chang Xiaolin , Yang Xinping , Zhou Wei , Xie Guoshuai , Liu Shuhua
Published: October 2015

The influence of glass powder (GP) on hydration kinetics of composite cementitious materials has been investigated by isothermal calorimetry test and hydration kinetics methods in this paper. The hydration heat emission rate and hydration heat decrease gradually while the induction and acceleration period increase with the increase of GP content. According to Krstulovic-Dabic model, the hydration process of composite cementitious materials containing GP is controlled by a variety of complicated reaction mechanisms, which can be divided into three periods: nucleation and crystal growth (NG), phase boundary reaction (I), and diffusion (D). The NG and I process are shortened after incorporating GP.
Biosorption of Pb(II) Ions byKlebsiellasp. 3S1 Isolated from a Wastewater Treatment Plant: Kinetics and Mechanisms Studies
Authors: Muñoz Antonio Jesús , Espínola Francisco , Moya Manuel , Ruiz Encarnación
Published: October 2015

Lead biosorption byKlebsiellasp. 3S1 isolated from a wastewater treatment plant was investigated through a Rotatable Central Composite Experimental Design. The optimisation study indicated the following optimal values of operating variables: 0.4 g/L of biosorbent dosage, pH 5, and 34°C. According to the results of the kinetic studies, the biosorption process can be described by a two-step process, one rapid, almost instantaneous, and one slower, both contributing significantly to the overall biosorption; the model that best fits the experimental results was pseudo-second order. The equilibrium studies showed a maximum lead uptake value of 140.19 mg/g according to the Langmuir model. The mechanism study revealed that lead ions were bioaccumulated into the cytoplasm and adsorbed on the cell surface. The bacterium  Klebsiellasp. 3S1 has a good potential in the bioremoval of lead in an inexpensive and effective process.
Gastrotracheal Fistula as a Result of Transhiatal Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer: An Unusual Complication
Authors: Salahi Heshmatollah , Tahamtan Mehdi , Ziaian Bijan , Masjedi Mansoor , Saadati Zahra , Hoseini Nazanin , Torabi Elahe
Published: October 2015

Gastrotracheal fistula following open transhiatal esophagectomy (Orringer’s technique) for esophageal cancer is an unusual but lethal complication. Surgical intervention with resection of the fistula tract and primary interrupted suturing of gastric and tracheal orifices using a muscle flap interposition has proved to be a successful method. We report the case of a 73-year-old male with an adenocarcinoma of the distal part of the esophagus, who underwent open transhiatal esophagectomy (Orringer’s technique) with gastric tube reconstruction and cervical anastomosis. The patient did not receive induction chemoradiotherapy before the esophagectomy. Two attempts of surgical repair of fistula failed and the patient died. Being aware of warning signs such as dyspnea and respiratory distress accompanied by bilious content in the tracheal tube is helpful in the early detection and treatment of this type of fistula.
An Experimental Investigation on the Failure Behavior of a Notched Concrete Beam Strengthened with Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer
Authors: Huang Xia , Wang Jian , Zhang Feng , Niu Song-shan , Ding Jun
Published: October 2015

This paper presents an experiment investigation on the failure behavior of a notched concrete beam reinforced with CFRP, by exploring the influences of the length, thickness, and CFRP bonding methods on the ultimate bearing capacity and failure mode. The interfacial shear stress has first been analytically derived and parametric analyses are then made to predict the failure mode. The experiment observation finds that failure mode significantly depends on CFRP length. The brittle fracture occurs only for nonstrengthened beams; the shear failure I mode mainly occurs when CFRP laminate is 100 mm long; the shear failure II mode mainly occurs when CFRP laminate is 200 mm long; and the delamination failure mode mainly occurs when CFRP laminate is 350 mm long. Meanwhile, the thickness and the bonding methods of CFRP also influence the final failure modes in terms of CFRP length. The measurement on ultimate load shows that an increase in the length of CFRP up to 200 mm significantly improves the bearing capacity of the reinforced beam. A comparison between a theoretical analysis and the experimental observation shows a good agreement in terms of failure modes indicating the accuracy and the validity of the experiment.
A Comparison of the Process of Remodeling of Hydroxyapatite/Poly-D/L-Lactide and Beta-Tricalcium Phosphate in a Loading Site
Authors: Akagi Hiroyuki , Ochi Hiroki , Soeta Satoshi , Kanno Nobuo , Yoshihara Megumi , Okazaki Kenshi , Yogo Takuya , Harada Yasuji , Amasaki Hajime , Hara Yasushi
Published: October 2015

Currently, the most commonly used bioresorbable scaffold is made of beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP); it is hoped that scaffolds made of a mixture of hydroxyapatite (HA) and poly-D/L-lactide (PDLLA) will be able to act as novel bioresorbable scaffolds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of a HA/PDLLA scaffold compared toβ-TCP, at a loading site. Dogs underwent surgery to replace a section of tibial bone with a bioresorbable scaffold. After the follow-up period, the scaffold was subjected to histological analysis. The HA/PDLLA scaffold showed similar bone formation and superior cell and tissue infiltration compared to theβ-TCP scaffold, as seen after Villanueva Goldner staining. Moreover, silver staining and immunohistochemistry for Von Willebrand factor and cathepsin K demonstrated better cell infiltration in the HA/PDLLA scaffold. The fibrous tissue and cells that had infiltrated into the HA/PDLLA scaffold tested positive for collagen type I and RUNX2, respectively, indicating that the tissue and cells that had infiltrated into the HA/PDLLA scaffold had the potential to differentiate into bone. The HA/PDLLA scaffold is therefore likely to find clinical application as a new bioresorbable scaffold.
Sensor Virtualization Module: Virtualizing IoT Devices on Mobile Smartphones for Effective Sensor Data Management
Authors: Ko JeongGil , Lee Byung-Bog , Lee Kyesun , Hong Sang Gi , Kim Naesoo , Paek Jeongyeup
Published: October 2015

The vision of theInternet of Things (IoT)is coming closer to reality as a large number of embedded devices are introduced to our everyday environments. For many commercial IoT devices, ubiquitously connected mobile platforms can provide global connectivity and enable various applications. Nevertheless, the types of IoT resource-utilizing applications are still limited due to the traditional stovepipe software architecture, where the vendors provide supporting software on an end-to-end basis. This paper tries to address this issue by introducing theSensor Virtualization Module (SVM), which provides a software abstraction for external IoT objects and allows applications to easily utilize various IoT resources through open APIs. We implement the SVM on both Android and iOS and show that the SVM architecture can lead to easy development of applications. We envision that this simplification in application development will catalyze the development of various IoT services.
Directed Hierarchical Patterning of Polycarbonate Bisphenol A Glass Surface along Predictable Sites
Authors: Khaled Mazen
Published: October 2015

This paper reports a new approach in designing textured and hierarchical surfaces on polycarbonate bisphenol A type glass to improve hydrophobicity and dust repellent application for solar panels. Solvent‐ and vapor‐induced crystallization of thermoplastic glass polycarbonate bisphenol A (PC) is carried out to create hierarchically structured surfaces. In this approach dichloromethane (DCM) and acetone are used in sequence. Samples are initially immersed in DCM liquid to generate nanopores, followed by exposing to acetone vapor resulting in the generation of hierarchical structure along the interporous sites. The effects of exposure time on the size, density, and distance of the generated spherules and gaps are studied and correlated with the optical transmittance and contact angle measurements at the surface. At optimized exposure time a contact angle of 98° was achieved with 80% optical transmittance. To further increase the hydrophobicity while maintaining optical properties, the hierarchical surfaces were coated with a transparent composite of tetraethyl orthosilicate as precursor and hexamethyldisilazane as silylation agent resulting in an average contact angle of 135.8° and transmittance of around 70%. FTIR and AFM characterization techniques are employed to study the composition and morphology of the generated surfaces.
SAMHD1Gene Mutations Are Associated with Cerebral Large-Artery Atherosclerosis
Authors: Li Wei , Xin Baozhong , Yan Junpeng , Wu Ying , Hu Bo , Liu Liping , Wang Yilong , Ahn Jinwoo , Skowronski Jacek , Zhang Zaiqiang , Wang Yongjun , Wang Heng
Published: October 2015

Background. To investigate whether one or moreSAMHD1gene mutations are associated with cerebrovascular disease in the general population using a Chinese stroke cohort.Methods. Patients with a Chinese Han background (N=300) diagnosed with either cerebral large-artery atherosclerosis (LAA,n=100), cerebral small vessel disease (SVD,n=100), or other stroke-free neurological disorders (control,n=100) were recruited. Genomic DNA from the whole blood of each patient was isolated, and direct sequencing of theSAMHD1gene was performed. Both wild type and mutant SAMHD1 proteins identified from the patients were expressed inE. coliand purified; then their dNTPase activities and ability to form stable tetramers were analysedin vitro.Results. Three heterozygous mutations, including two missense mutations c.64C>T (P22S) and c.841G>A (p.E281K) and one splice site mutation c.696+2T>A, were identified in the LAA group with a prevalence of 3%. No mutations were found in the patients with SVD or the controls (p=0.05). The mutant SAMHD1 proteins were functionally impaired in terms of their catalytic activity as a dNTPase and ability to assemble stable tetramers.Conclusions. HeterozygousSAMHD1gene mutations might cause genetic predispositions that interact with other risk factors, resulting in increased vulnerability to stroke.
Muscle Activation of Vastus Medialis Oblique and Vastus Lateralis in Sling-Based Exercises in Patients with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Cross-Over Study
Authors: Chang Wen-Dien , Huang Wei-Syuan , Lai Ping-Tung
Published: October 2015

Objectives. To examine what changes are caused in the activity of the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) and vastus lateralis (VL) at the time of sling-based exercises in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) and compare the muscular activations in patients with PFPS among the sling-based exercises.Methods. This was a cross-over study. Sling-based open and closed kinetic knee extension and hip adduction exercises were designed for PFPS, and electromyography was applied to record maximal voluntary contraction during the exercises. The VMO and VL activations and VMO : VL ratios for the three exercises were analyzed and compared.Results. Thirty male (age = 21.19 ± 0.68 y) and 30 female (age = 21.12 ± 0.74 y) patients with PFPS were recruited. VMO activations during the sling-based open and closed kinetic knee extension exercises were significantly higher (P=0.04andP=0.001) than those during hip adduction exercises and VMO : VL ratio for the sling-based closed kinetic knee extension and hip adduction exercises approximated to 1.Conclusions. The sling-based closed kinetic knee extension exercise produced the highest VMO activation. It also had an appropriate VMO : VL ratio similar to sling-based hip adduction exercise and had beneficial effects on PFPS.
An Alternate Iterative Differential Evolution Algorithm for Parameter Identification of Chaotic Systems
Authors: Xiang Wanli , Meng Xuelei , An Meiqing
Published: October 2015

Parameter estimation of chaotic systems plays a key role for control and synchronization of chaotic systems. At first, the parameter estimation of chaotic systems is mathematically formulated as a global continuous optimization problem. Then through integrating two differential mutation strategies, an improved greedy selection mechanism and a population diversity balance scheme, an alternate iterative differential algorithm, called AIDE, is presented to solve the problem in this paper. Subsequently, experiments are tested on a set of cases of parameter estimation of chaotic systems and the results show that AIDE is better than or at least equal to DE/rand/1/bin, DE/best/1/bin, and other four well-known algorithms in all cases.
Novel Model of Pulmonary Artery Banding Leading to Right Heart Failure in Rats
Authors: Hirata Masataka , Ousaka Daiki , Arai Sadahiko , Okuyama Michihiro , Tarui Suguru , Kobayashi Junko , Kasahara Shingo , Sano Shunji
Published: October 2015

Background. Congenital heart diseases often involve chronic pressure overload of the right ventricle (RV) which is a major cause of RV dysfunction. Pulmonary artery (PA) banding has been used to produce animal models of RV dysfunction. We have devised a new and easier method of constricting the PA and compared it directly with the partial ligation method.Methods. Eight-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats (240–260 g) were divided into three groups: sham operation, partial pulmonary artery ligation (PAL) procedure, and pulmonary artery half-closed clip (PAC) procedure. RV function and remodeling were determined by echocardiography and histomorphometry.Results. Surgical mortality was significantly lower in the PAC group while echocardiography revealed significantly more signs of RV dysfunction. At the 8th week after surgery RV fibrosis rate was significantly higher in the PAC group.Conclusions. This procedure of pulmonary artery banding in rats is easier and more efficient than partial ligation.
A Pyrosequencing Assay for the Quantitative Methylation Analysis ofGALR1in Endometrial Samples: Preliminary Results
Authors: Kottaridi Christine , Koureas Nikolaos , Margari Niki , Terzakis Emmanouil , Bilirakis Evripidis , Pappas Asimakis , Chrelias Charalampos , Spathis Aris , Aga Evangelia , Pouliakis Abraham , Panayiotides Ioannis , Karakitsos Petros
Published: October 2015

Endometrial cancer is the most common malignancy of the female genital tract while aberrant DNA methylation seems to play a critical role in endometrial carcinogenesis. Galanin’s expression has been involved in many cancers. We developed a new pyrosequencing assay that quantifies DNA methylation of galanin’s receptor-1 (GALR1). In this study, the preliminary results indicate that pyrosequencing methylation analysis ofGALR1promoter can be a useful ancillary marker to cytology as the histological status can successfully predict. This marker has the potential to lead towards better management of women with endometrial lesions and eventually reduce unnecessary interventions. In addition it can provide early warning for women with negative cytological result.
The Least Algebraic Connectivity of Graphs
Authors: Jiang Guisheng , Yu Guidong , Cao Jinde
Published: October 2015

The algebraic connectivity of a graph is defined as the second smallest eigenvalue of the Laplacian matrix of the graph, which is a parameter to measure how well a graph is connected. In this paper, we present two unique graphs whose algebraic connectivity attain the minimum among all graphs whose complements are trees, but not stars, and among all graphs whose complements are unicyclic graphs, but not stars adding one edge, respectively.
Extracellular Calcium-Dependent Modulation of Endothelium Relaxation in Rat Mesenteric Small Artery: The Role of Potassium Signaling
Authors: Hangaard Lise , Jessen Peter B. , Kamaev Dmitrii , Aalkjaer Christian , Matchkov Vladimir V.
Published: October 2015

The nature of NO- and COX-independent endothelial hyperpolarization (EDH) is not fully understood but activation of small- and intermittent-conductance Ca2+-activated K+channels (SKCaandIKCa) is important. Previous studies have suggested that the significance ofIKCadepends onCa2+out. Also it has been suggested that K+is important through localizedK+outsignaling causing activation of the Na+,K+-ATPase and inward-rectifying K+channels (Kir). Here we tested the hypothesis that the modulating effect ofCa2+outon the EDH-like response depends onK+out. We addressed this possibility using isometric myography of rat mesenteric small arteries. WhenK+outwas 4.2 mM, relaxation to acetylcholine (ACh) was stronger at 2.5 mMCa2+outthan at 1 mMCa2+out. Inhibition ofIKCawith TRAM34 suppressed the relaxations but did not change the relation between the relaxations at the low and highCa2+out. ThisCa2+out-dependence disappeared at 5.9 mMK+outand in the presence of ouabain or BaCl2. Our results suggest thatIKCaare involved in the localizedK+outsignaling which acts through the Na+,K+-ATPase andKirchannels and that the significance of this endothelium-dependent pathway is modulated byCa2+out.
Quarkonium Production and Proposal of the New Experiments on Fixed Target at the LHC
Authors: Kurepin A. B. , Topilskaya N. S.
Published: October 2015

The brief review of the experimental data on quarkonium productions measured at the CERN SPS, at the Brookhaven Collider RHIC, and at the LHC is presented. The dissociation of quarkonium resonances produced in heavy ion collisions was suggested as a possible signal of the Quark-Gluon Plasma formation. At the CERN SPS, the anomalous suppression of theJ/ψproduction was observed in central Pb-Pb collisions by the NA50 collaboration. However, the effects ofJ/ψsuppression on cold nuclear matter, feed-down production from higher charmonium states, and regeneration processes should be taken into account. If proton and ion beams at the LHC will be used with fixed targets, the energy interval between the SPS energy and the nominal RHIC energy (200 GeV) could be investigated. The high statistics data on quarkonium productions at these energies will give the possibility of clarifying the mechanism of charmonium productions to investigate the importance of the recombination process, since the probability of recombination decreases with decreasing the energy of collisions.
Serum Uric Acid Increases Risk of Cancer Incidence and Mortality: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Yan Shushan , Zhang Pengjun , Xu Wei , Liu Yuqing , Wang Bin , Jiang Tao , Hua Changjiang , Wang Xuan , Xu Donghua , Sun Beicheng
Published: October 2015

SUA is a potent antioxidant and thus may play a protective role against cancer. Many epidemiological studies have investigated this hypothesis but provided inconsistent and inconclusive findings. We aimed to precisely elucidate the association between SUA levels and cancer by pooling all available publications. Totally, 5 independent studies with 456,053 subjects and 12 with 632,472 subjects were identified after a comprehensive literature screening from PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. The pooled RRs showed that individuals with high SUA levels were at an increased risk of total cancer incidence (RR = 1.03, 95% CI 1.01–1.05, P = 0.007). Positive association between high SUA levels and total cancer incidence was observed in males but not females (for men: RR = 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.08, P = 0.002; for women, RR = 1.01, 95% CI 0.98–1.04, P = 0.512). Besides, high SUA levels were associated with an elevated risk of total cancer mortality (RR = 1.17, 95% CI 1.04–1.32, P = 0.010), particularly in females (RR = 1.25, 95% CI 1.07–1.45, P = 0.004). The study suggests that high SUA levels increase the risk of total cancer incidence and mortality. The data do not support the hypothesis of a protective role of SUA in cancer.
Prospects for Open Heavy Flavor Measurements in Heavy Ion andp+ACollisions in a Fixed-Target Experiment at the LHC
Authors: Kikoła Daniel
Published: October 2015

High luminosity data in a fixed-target experiment allow studying interactions of heavy quarks with nuclear matter in the intermediate energy range with extremely high precision. We present a feasibility study for open charm and bottom production measurements in the energy range of a fixed-target experiment at the LHC (AFTER@LHC). We demonstrate, that high-precision data from AFTER will allow answering two open questions: if there is a collective behavior of charm quarks inp+Acollisions at RHIC energy and if charm production is suppressed in the energy range ofsNN= 60–80 GeV. We argue that simultaneous measurement ofD0suppression as a function of traverse momentum at midrapidity and forward rapidity can help to pin down the mechanism of charm energy loss in the hot and dense nuclear medium.
Resonances in Reverse Vavilov-Cherenkov Radiation Produced by Electron Beam Passage over Periodic Interface
Authors: Granet Gerard , Melezhik Petr , Poyedinchuk Anatoliy , Sautbekov Seil , Sirenko Yuriy , Yashina Nataliya
Published: October 2015

Resonances in reverse Vavilov-Cherenkov radiation produced by the charged particles beam passage over periodic boundary of dispersive left-handed medium are found out and studied. Analysis and modeling are performed on the base of rigorous mathematical approaches. For the first time, several physical peculiarities owing to these effects are considered in the conditions of possible resonant scattering of electromagnetic waves.
Application of a Noncarboxylated Dye Compound in a Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Containing a Cyclodextrin Layer
Authors: Takeshita Tatsuya , Umeda Takao , Oonishi Noriaki , Hara Michihiro
Published: October 2015

We report the fabrication and characterization of a dye-sensitized solar cell containing a carboxymethyl-β-cyclodextrin sodium salt (CM-β-CD) layer and a noncarboxylated dye compound (tris(2,2′-bipyridyl)ruthenium(II)dichloride hexahydrate (Ru-dye)). The values of the incident photon-to-current conversion efficiency (IPCE) of the Ru-dye/CM-β-CD-containing device measured under 450 and 490 nm light irradiation were, respectively, 2.35% and 3.33%. The IPCE was due to the absorption of Ru-dye in ethanol solution. In contrast, the IPCE of the device that was prepared without the CM-β-CD layer measured under 450 nm irradiation was approximately three times smaller. Accordingly, the current findings demonstrate the application of a noncarboxylated dye compound in DSSCs incorporating a CM-β-CD layer.
Pigment Epithelium-Derived Factor Induces Endothelial Barrier Dysfunction via p38/MAPK Phosphorylation
Authors: He Ting , Zhao Liping , Zhang Dongxia , Zhang Qiong , Jia Jiezhi , Hu Jiongyu , Huang Yuesheng
Published: October 2015

Endothelial barrier dysfunction, which is a serious problem that occurs in various inflammatory conditions, permits extravasation of serum components into the surrounding tissues, leading to edema formation and organ failure. Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), which is a major endogenous antagonist, has been implicated in diverse biological process, but its role in endothelial barrier dysfunction has not been defined. To assess the role of PEDF in the vasculature, we evaluated the effects of exogenous PEDF using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs)in vitro. Our results demonstrated that exogenous PEDF activated p38/MAPK signalling pathway in a dose- and time-dependent manner and induced vascular hyperpermeability as measured by the markedly increased FITC-dextran leakage and the decreased transendothelial electrical resistance (TER) across the monolayer cells, which was accompanied by microtubules (MTs) disassembly and F-actin rearrangement. However, the aforementioned alterations can be arrested by the application of low concentration of p38/MAPK inhibitor SB203580. These results reveal a novel role for PEDF as a potential vasoactive substance in inducing hyperpermeability. Furthermore, our results suggest that PEDF and p38/MAPK may serve as therapeutic targets for maintaining vascular integrity.
Recent Advances in the Modeling of Transmission Lines Loaded with Split Ring Resonators
Authors: Naqui Jordi , Su Lijuan , Mata Javier , Martín Ferran
Published: October 2015

This paper reviews the recent advances in the modeling of transmission lines loaded with split ring resonators (SRRs). It is well known that these artificial lines can exhibit a negative effective permeability in a narrow band above the SRR fundamental resonance, providing stopband functionality. By introducing shunt inductive elements to the line, the stopband can be switched to a pass band with left-handed (LH) wave propagation. For the design of microwave circuits based on these artificial lines, accurate circuit models are necessary. The former circuit model of SRR-loaded lines was presented more than one decade ago and is valid under restrictive conditions. This paper presents the progress achieved in the modeling of these artificial lines during the last years. The analysis, restricted to coplanar waveguide (CPW) transmission lines loaded only with SRRs (negative permeability transmission lines), includes the effects of SRR orientation, the coupling between adjacent resonators, and the coupling between the two SRRs constituting the unit cell. The proposed circuit models are validated through electromagnetic simulation and experimental data. It is also pointed out that the analysis can be easily extended to negative permittivity transmission lines based on complementary split ring resonators (CSRRs).
Multivariate Radiological-Based Models for the Prediction of Future Knee Pain: Data from the OAI
Authors: Galván-Tejada Jorge I. , Celaya-Padilla José M. , Treviño Victor , Tamez-Peña José G.
Published: October 2015

In this work, the potential of X-ray based multivariate prognostic models to predict the onset of chronic knee pain is presented. Using X-rays quantitative image assessments of joint-space-width (JSW) and paired semiquantitative central X-ray scores from the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI), a case-control study is presented. The pain assessments of the right knee at the baseline and the 60-month visits were used to screen for case/control subjects. Scores were analyzed at the time of pain incidence (T-0), the year prior incidence (T-1), and two years before pain incidence (T-2). Multivariate models were created by a cross validated elastic-net regularized generalized linear models feature selection tool. Univariate differences between cases and controls were reported by AUC,C-statistics, and ODDs ratios. Univariate analysis indicated that the medial osteophytes were significantly more prevalent in cases than controls:C-stat 0.62, 0.62, and 0.61, at T-0, T-1, and T-2, respectively. The multivariate JSW models significantly predicted pain: AUC = 0.695, 0.623, and 0.620, at T-0, T-1, and T-2, respectively. Semiquantitative multivariate models predicted paint withC-stat = 0.671, 0.648, and 0.645 at T-0, T-1, and T-2, respectively. Multivariate models derived from plain X-ray radiography assessments may be used to predict subjects that are at risk of developing knee pain.
Contribution of Neuroinflammation to the Pathogenesis of Cancer Cachexia
Authors: Molfino Alessio , Gioia Gianfranco , Fanelli Filippo Rossi , Laviano Alessandro
Published: October 2015

Inflammation characterizes the course of acute and chronic diseases and is largely responsible for the metabolic and behavioral changes occurring during the clinical journey of patients. Robust data indicate that, during cancer, functional modifications within brain areas regulating energy homeostasis contribute to the onset of anorexia, reduced food intake, and increased catabolism of muscle mass and adipose tissue. In particular, functional changes are associated with increased hypothalamic concentration of proinflammatory cytokines, which suggests that neuroinflammation may represent the adaptive response of the brain to peripheral challenges, including tumor growth. Within this conceptual framework, the vagus nerve appears to be involved in conveying alert signals to the hypothalamus, whereas hypothalamic serotonin appears to contribute to triggering catabolic signals.
Impaired Fasting Glucose in Nondiabetic Range: Is It a Marker of Cardiovascular Risk Factor Clustering?
Authors: Valentino Giovanna , Kramer Verónica , Orellana Lorena , Bustamante María José , Casasbellas Cinthia , Adasme Marcela , Salazar Alejandra , Navarrete Carlos , Acevedo Mónica
Published: October 2015

Background. Impaired fasting glucose (IFG) through the nondiabetic range (100–125 mg/dL) is not considered in the cardiovascular (CV) risk profile. Aim. To compare the clustering of CV risk factors (RFs) in nondiabetic subjects with normal fasting glucose (NFG) and IFG. Material and Methods. Cross-sectional study in 3739 nondiabetic subjects. Demographics, medical history, and CV risk factors were collected and lipid profile, fasting glucose levels (FBG), C-reactive protein (hsCRP), blood pressure (BP), anthropometric measurements, and aerobic capacity were determined. Results. 559 (15%) subjects had IFG: they had a higher mean age, BMI, waist circumference, non-HDL cholesterol, BP, and hsCRP (p<0.0001) and lower HDL (p<0.001) and aerobic capacity (p<0.001). They also had a higher prevalence of hypertension (34% versus 25%; p<0.001), dyslipidemia (79% versus 74%; p<0.001), and obesity (29% versus 16%; p<0.001) and a higher Framingham risk score (8% versus 6%; p<0.001). The probability of presenting 3 or more CV RFs adjusted by age and gender was significantly higher in the top quintile of fasting glucose (≥98 mg/dL; OR = 2.02; 1.62–2.51). Conclusions. IFG in the nondiabetic range is associated with increased cardiovascular RF clustering.
Elevated Circulating Levels of Inflammatory Markers in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Al Shahi Hamad , Shimada Kazunori , Miyauchi Katsumi , Yoshihara Takuma , Sai Eiryu , Shiozawa Tomoyuki , Naito Ryo , Aikawa Tatsuro , Ouchi Shohei , Kadoguchi Tomoyasu , Miyazaki Tetsuro , Daida Hiroyuki
Published: October 2015

Objective. We evaluated inflammatory cytokines and chemokine in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in patients with either acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or stable coronary artery disease (CAD).Methods. We enrolled 20 ACS patients and 50 stable CAD patients without previous history of ACS who underwent cardiac catheterization. Patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate of ≤30 mL/min/1.73 m2and C-reactive protein of ≥1.0 mg/dL were excluded. Blood samples were collected from the patients just before catheterization, and PBMCs were isolated from the whole blood. The levels of inflammatory cytokines and chemokine were measured by using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunoassays.Results. The expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin- (IL-) 6, IL-10, IL-23A, IL-27, and IL-37 was significantly higher in the ACS group than in the CAD group (P<0.05). In contrast, the expression of IL-33 was significantly lower in the ACS group than in the CAD group (P<0.05). The ACS patients had higher plasma levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10 in the ACS group than in the CAD group.Conclusion. Circulating levels of pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-23A, IL-27, IL-33, and IL-37, may be associated with the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in ACS patients.
Expression of Stem Cell Markers in Preinvasive Tubal Lesions of Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Chene G. , Ouellet V. , Rahimi K. , Barres V. , Meunier L. , De Ladurantaye M. , Provencher D. , Mes-Masson A. M.
Published: October 2015

In order to better understand the ovarian serous carcinogenic process with tubal origin, we investigated the expression of stem cell markers in premalignant tubal lesions (serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma or STIC). We found an increased stem cell marker density in the normal fallopian tube followed by a high CD117 and a low ALDH and CD44 expression in STICs raising the question of the role of the stem cell markers in the serous carcinogenic process.
Kalman Filtering for Discrete Stochastic Systems with Multiplicative Noises and Random Two-Step Sensor Delays
Authors: Chen Dongyan , Yu Yonglong , Xu Long , Liu Xiaohui
Published: October 2015

This paper is concerned with the optimal Kalman filtering problem for a class of discrete stochastic systems with multiplicative noises and random two-step sensor delays. Three Bernoulli distributed random variables with known conditional probabilities are introduced to characterize the phenomena of the random two-step sensor delays which may happen during the data transmission. By using the state augmentation approach and innovation analysis technique, an optimal Kalman filter is constructed for the augmented system in the sense of the minimum mean square error (MMSE). Subsequently, the optimal Kalman filtering is derived for corresponding augmented system in initial instants. Finally, a simulation example is provided to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed filtering method.
Health Impacts of Increased Physical Activity from Changes in Transportation Infrastructure: Quantitative Estimates for Three Communities
Authors: Mansfield Theodore J. , MacDonald Gibson Jacqueline
Published: October 2015

Recently, two quantitative tools have emerged for predicting the health impacts of projects that change population physical activity: the Health Economic Assessment Tool (HEAT) and Dynamic Modeling for Health Impact Assessment (DYNAMO-HIA). HEAT has been used to support health impact assessments of transportation infrastructure projects, but DYNAMO-HIA has not been previously employed for this purpose nor have the two tools been compared. To demonstrate the use of DYNAMO-HIA for supporting health impact assessments of transportation infrastructure projects, we employed the model in three communities (urban, suburban, and rural) in North Carolina. We also compared DYNAMO-HIA and HEAT predictions in the urban community. Using DYNAMO-HIA, we estimated benefit-cost ratios of 20.2 (95% C.I.: 8.7–30.6), 0.6 (0.3–0.9), and 4.7 (2.1–7.1) for the urban, suburban, and rural projects, respectively. For a 40-year time period, the HEAT predictions of deaths avoided by the urban infrastructure project were three times as high as DYNAMO-HIA’s predictions due to HEAT’s inability to account for changing population health characteristics over time. Quantitative health impact assessment coupled with economic valuation is a powerful tool for integrating health considerations into transportation decision-making. However, to avoid overestimating benefits, such quantitative HIAs should use dynamic, rather than static, approaches.
Influence of Shell Parameters on Optical Properties of Spherical Metallic Core‐Oxide Shell Nanoparticles
Authors: Pustovalov Victor K. , Astafyeva Liudmila G.
Published: October 2015

Different metal homogeneous nanoparticles have been extensively studied in recent years due to their wide range of potential applications. It is very interesting to investigate core‐shell nanoparticles with oxide shell from core metal. The formation of oxide shell on metallic nanoparticles can be achieved by different chemical and physical methods including also natural oxidation of pure metallic nanoparticles in gaseous or liquid media, containing oxygen components (air, water, etc.). We numerically calculated efficiency factors of absorption Kabs, scattering Ksca, and extinction Kext of radiation with wavelength λ in the spectral interval 150–1000 nm by spherical homogeneous metallic and two‐layered (metal core – oxide metal shell) nanoparticles: Al, Al‐Al2O3 and Zn, Zn‐ZnO with core radii in the range 5–50 nm and shell thickness 5 nm. Analysis of presented results has been carried out.
Development of a New Type of Alkali-Free Liquid Accelerator for Wet Shotcrete in Coal Mine and Its Engineering Application
Authors: Zhou Gang , Cheng Weimin , Cao Sen
Published: October 2015

In order to address issues such as large rebound rate, high dust concentration, and low compressive strength of shotcrete when adding liquid accelerator during wet spraying, the factors influencing the efficiency of liquid accelerator were experimentally analyzed. The single-admixture, combination, and orthogonal tests were conducted on the five fundamental raw materials required to develop the new liquid accelerator. The WT-1 type liquid accelerator, which had better adaptability to different kinds of cement, was developed with the mass concentration ratio of 55% aluminum sulfate octadecahydrate, 4% sodium fluoride, 2.5% triethanolamine, 0.5% polyacrylamide, 5% bentonite, and 33% water. Experimental investigation showed that the initial setting time of the reference cement with 6% mass content of this liquid accelerator was 2 minutes and 15 seconds, and the final setting time was 7 minutes and 5 seconds. The compressive strength after 1 day of curing was 13.6 MPa and the strength ratio after 28 days of curing was 94.8%, which met the first grade product requirements of the China National Standard. Compared with the conventional type liquid accelerator, the proposed type WT-1 accelerator is capable of effectively reducing the rebound rate and dust concentration while significantly increasing the compressive strength of the shotcrete.
Chitosan and Its Potential Use as a Scaffold for Tissue Engineering in Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Rodríguez-Vázquez Martin , Vega-Ruiz Brenda , Ramos-Zúñiga Rodrigo , Saldaña-Koppel Daniel Alexander , Quiñones-Olvera Luis Fernando
Published: October 2015

Tissue engineering is an important therapeutic strategy to be used in regenerative medicine in the present and in the future. Functional biomaterials research is focused on the development and improvement of scaffolding, which can be used to repair or regenerate an organ or tissue. Scaffolds are one of the crucial factors for tissue engineering. Scaffolds consisting of natural polymers have recently been developed more quickly and have gained more popularity. These include chitosan, a copolymer derived from the alkaline deacetylation of chitin. Expectations for use of these scaffolds are increasing as the knowledge regarding their chemical and biological properties expands, and new biomedical applications are investigated. Due to their different biological properties such as being biocompatible, biodegradable, and bioactive, they have given the pattern for use in tissue engineering for repair and/or regeneration of different tissues including skin, bone, cartilage, nerves, liver, and muscle. In this review, we focus on the intrinsic properties offered by chitosan and its use in tissue engineering, considering it as a promising alternative for regenerative medicine as a bioactive polymer.