bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nightmare-Induced Atypical Midventricular Tako-Tsubo Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Fibbi Veronica , Ballo Piercarlo , Nannini Marco , Consoli Lorenzo , Chechi Tania , Bribani Andrea , Fiorentino Francesca , Chiodi Leandro , Zuppiroli Alfredo
Published: February 2015

Tako-Tsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) is a reversible cardiomyopathy characterized by acute left ventricular segmental dysfunction, whose clinical presentation resembles that of acute myocardial infarction. The syndrome often follows a psychophysical stressful event and is characterized by echocardiographic evidence of akinesia of the left ventricular mid-apical segments. Atypical echocardiographic patterns of TTC have recently been described, often triggered by emotional stressors, rather than physical. In this report, we describe a case of atypical TTC triggered by an unusual stressor (recurrent nightmare) in a 45-year-old woman, with peculiar clinical presentation and evolution characterized by persistent loss of consciousness, neurological deterioration, absence of typical symptoms of TTC, and features suggestive of a hysterical crisis.
Differential Regulation of Proinflammatory Mediators following LPS- and ATP-Induced Activation of Monocytes from Patients with Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: Martirosyan Anush , Petrek Martin , Navratilova Zdenka , Blbulyan Armen , Boyajyan Anna , Manukyan Gayane
Published: February 2015

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired autoimmune disorder characterized by recurrent thrombosis and pregnancy morbidity in association with the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies. Growing evidence supports the involvement of monocytes in APS pathogenesis. Inflammatory activation of monocytes promotes thrombus formation and other APS complications. However, mechanisms underlying their activation are poorly investigated. We aimed to determine transcriptional activity of monocytes after exposing them to low concentrations of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and LPS + adenosine triphosphate (ATP) using comparative qRT-PCR. The results showed that LPS significantly increased transcriptional levels of TLR2, IL-23, CCL2, CXCL10, IL-1β, and IL-6 in APS cells, while, in cells from healthy donors, LPS resulted in IL-6 and STAT3 elevated mRNAs. Double stimulation of the cells resulted in decreased mRNA levels of NLRP3 in monocytes isolated from healthy donors and CCL2, IL-1βin APS cells. By contrast, TLR2 mRNAs were elevated in both investigated groups after culture of the cells with LPS + ATP. Thus, the findings indicate increased sensitivity of APS cells to LPS that may contribute to thrombus formation and enhance development or progression of autoimmune processes. Low concentrations of ATP diminish LPS-induced inflammatory state of APS monocytes which might be a potential mechanism which regulates inflammatory state of the cells.
Support Vector Machines for Unbalanced Multicategory Classification
Authors: Jung Kang-Mo
Published: February 2015

Classification is a very important research topic and its applications are various, because data can be easily obtained in these days. Among many techniques of classification the support vector machine (SVM) is widely applied to bioinformatics or genetic analysis, because it gives sound theoretical background and its performance is superior to other methods. The SVM can be rewritten by a combination of the hinge loss function and the penalty function. The smoothly clipped absolute deviation penalty function satisfies desirably statistical properties. Since standard SVM techniques typically treat all classes equally, it is not well suited to unbalanced proportion data. We propose a robust method to treat unbalanced cases based on the weights of the class. Simulation and a numerical example show that the proposed method is effective to analyze unbalanced proportion data.
Sacrocolpopexy with Polypropylene Tape as Valuable Surgical Modification during Cystectomy with Orthotopic Ileal Bladder: Functional Results
Authors: Życzkowski Marcin , Muskała Bartosz , Kaletka Zbigniew , Bryniarski Piotr , Nowakowski Krzysztof , Bogacki Rafał , Paradysz Andrzej
Published: February 2015

Introduction. Urinary diversion is very often associated with urinary retention and urinary incontinence. In this study, a surgical modification during cystectomy with orthotopic ileal neobladder is presented.Material and Methods. Female patients enrolled in the study (n-24) were subjected to sacrocolpopexy during the operation. Apart from oncological control, the follow-up consisted of 1-hour inlay test and questionnaires (UDI-6 and IIQ-7) in the 3rd, 6th, and 12th month after the operation. In the 12th month after the surgery, the urodynamic pressure-flow test was performed. Outcomes were compared with the control group (n-18) in which sacrocolpopexy was not implemented.Results. The study group was characterised by reduced urinary retention and improved continence.Conclusion. Sacrocolpopexy during cystectomy with orthotopic ileal bladder is a valuable surgical method which provides patients with a better quality of life.
Sodium‐Glucose Linked Transporter‐2 Inhibitors in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zanoli L. , Granata A. , Lentini P. , Rastelli S. , Fatuzzo P. , Rapisarda F. , Castellino P.
Published: February 2015

SGLT2 inhibitors are new antihyperglycaemic agents whose ability to lower glucose is directly proportional to GFR. Therefore, in chronic kidney disease (CKD) the blood glucose lowering effect is reduced. Unlike many current therapies, the mechanism of action of SGLT2 inhibitors is independent of insulin action or beta‐cell function. In addition, the mechanism of action of SGLT2 inhibitors is complementary and not alternative to other antidiabetic agents. SGLT2 inhibitors could be potentially effective in attenuating renal hyperfiltration and, consequently, the progression of CKD. Moreover, the reductions in intraglomerular pressure, systemic blood pressure, and uric acid levels induced by SGLT inhibition may potentially be of benefit in CKD subjects without diabetes. However, at present, only few clinical studies were designed to evaluate the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors in CKD. Consequently, safety and potential efficacy beyond blood glucose lowering should be better clarified in CKD. In this paper we provide an updated review of the use of SGLT2 inhibitors in clinical practice, with particular attention on subjects with CKD.
LARES: A New Satellite Specifically Designed for Testing General Relativity
Authors: Paolozzi Antonio , Ciufolini Ignazio , Paris Claudio , Sindoni Giampiero
Published: February 2015

It is estimated that today several hundred operational satellites are orbiting Earth while many more either have already reentered the atmosphere or are no longer operational. On the 13th of February 2012 one more satellite of the Italian Space Agency has been successfully launched. The main difference with respect to all other satellites is its extremely high density that makes LARES not only the densest satellite but also the densest known orbiting object in the solar system. That implies that the nongravitational perturbations on its surface will have the smallest effects on its orbit. Those design characteristics are required to perform an accurate test of frame dragging and specifically a test of Lense-Thirring effect, predicted by General Relativity. LARES satellite, although passive, with 92 laser retroreflectors on its surface, was a real engineering challenge in terms of both manufacturing and testing. Data acquisition and processing are in progress. The paper will describe the scientific objectives, the status of the experiment, the special feature of the satellite and separation system including some manufacturing issues, and the special tests performed on its retroreflectors.
Entomological Investigations on Malaria Vectors in Some War-Torn Areas in the Trincomalee District of Sri Lanka after Settlement of 30-Year Civil Disturbance
Authors: Gunathilaka Nayana , Hapugoda Menaka , Abeyewickreme Wimaladharma , Wickremasinghe Rajitha
Published: February 2015

Background. Malaria was an endemic problem in Trincomalee District, Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. Very few recent data concerning Anopheles are available which transmit malaria. Therefore, the aim of this study is to identify various Anopheles species and the dynamics of anophelines including malaria vectors in Trincomalee District for effective vector control under the current malaria elimination program embarked in the country. Method. Entomological surveys were conducted on a monthly basis, using five entomological techniques, namely, indoor hand collection (HC), window trap collection (WTC), cattle-baited net collection (CBNC), and cattle-baited hut collection (CBHC) from June 2010 to June 2012 in 32 study areas under five entomological sentinel sites. Results. Seventeen anopheline species were encountered, of which Anopheles subpictus was the predominant species in all sampling methods. It is noted that A. culicifacies and A. subpictus have adapted to breed in polluted water in urban settings which may cause serious implications on the epidemiology of malaria in the country. Conclusions. It is important to determine the abundance, biology, distribution, and relationship with climatic factors of main and secondary malaria vectors in Sri Lanka in order to initiate evidence based controlling programs under the current malaria elimination program in Sri Lanka.
A Challenging Case of Limb Salvage Requiring a Combination of Composite Fixation and Masquelet Technique to Address Significant Segmental Bone Loss
Authors: Blair C. , Simela A. T. , Cross B. J.
Published: February 2015

Cases of limb salvage following skeletal trauma involving significant bone loss pose a particular challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. Certain techniques for addressing this complex issue have been advanced in recent years and have met with considerable success. The Masquelet technique involves a staged procedure in which a temporary skeletal stabilization is paired with implantation of an antibiotic spacer and left in place for 6–8 weeks, during which time a “pseudomembrane” forms around the cement spacer. During the second stage of the procedure, the pseudomembrane is incised, the antibiotic spacer removed, and bone graft is placed. We present a case of significant segmental femur loss in a 19-year-old male opting for limb salvage in which a 17-centimeter segmental loss of bone was essentially regrown using a combination of the Masquelet technique with supplemental endosteal fixation.
Testing of Action of Direct Flame on Concrete
Authors: Bodnarova Lenka , Valek Jaroslav , Novosad Petr
Published: February 2015

The paper states results of experimental exposition of concrete test specimens to direct flame. Concrete test specimens made from various mixtures differing in the type of aggregate, binder, dispersed reinforcement, and technological procedure were subjected to thermal load. Physicomechanical and other properties of all test specimens were tested before exposition to open flame: density, compressive strength, flexural strength, moisture content, and surface appearance. The specimens were visually observed during exposition to open flame and changes were recorded. Exposed surface was photographically documented before thermal load and at 10‐minute intervals. Development of temperature of the specimens was documented with a thermocamera. After exposition to thermal load and cooling down, concrete specimens were visually observed, network of cracks was photographically documented, and maximal depth of spalled area was measured.
Fabrication of TiO2Crystalline Coatings by Combining Ti-6Al-4V Anodic Oxidation and Heat Treatments
Authors: Vera María Laura , Rosenberger Mario Roberto , Schvezov Carlos Enrique , Ares Alicia Esther
Published: February 2015

The bio- and hemocompatibility of titanium alloys are due to the formation of a TiO2layer. This natural oxide may have fissures which are detrimental to its properties. Anodic oxidation is used to obtain thicker films. By means of this technique, at low voltages oxidation, amorphous and low roughness coatings are obtained, while, above a certain voltage, crystalline and porous coatings are obtained. According to the literature, the crystalline phases of TiO2, anatase, and rutile would present greater biocompatibility than the amorphous phase. On the other hand, for hemocompatible applications, smooth and homogeneous surfaces are required. One way to obtain crystalline and homogeneous coatings is by heat treatments after anodic oxidation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of heat treatments on the thickness, morphology, and crystalline structure of the TiO2anodic coatings. The characterization was performed by optical and scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray reflectometry. Coatings with different colors of interference were obtained. There were no significant changes in the surface morphology and roughness after heat treatment of 500°C. Heat treated coatings have different proportions of the crystalline phases, depending on the voltage of anodic oxidation and the temperature of the heat treatment.
Eco-Friendly Corrosion Inhibition of Pipeline Steel UsingBrassica oleracea
Authors: Ngobiri N. C. , Oguzie E. E. , Li Y. , Liu L. , Oforka N. C. , Akaranta O.
Published: February 2015

The inhibition capacity ofBrassica oleracea(BO) extract on the corrosion of pipeline steel in 0.5 M H2SO4was evaluated using electrochemical techniques. The results showed an excellent inhibition efficiency which increased with initial increase in extract concentration and temperature to a point and decreased with further increase in BO extract concentration and temperature. Mixed inhibition behaviour was proposed for the action of BO. The unique behaviour of BO was attributed to the organic entities present in the extract.
A miRNA-Driven Inference Model to Construct Potential Drug-Disease Associations for Drug Repositioning
Authors: Chen Hailin , Zhang Zuping
Published: February 2015

Increasing evidence discovered that the inappropriate expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) will lead to many kinds of complex diseases and drugs can regulate the expression level of miRNAs. Therefore human diseases may be treated by targeting some specific miRNAs with drugs, which provides a new perspective for drug repositioning. However, few studies have attempted to computationally predict associations between drugs and diseases via miRNAs for drug repositioning. In this paper, we developed an inference model to achieve this aim by combining experimentally supported drug-miRNA associations and miRNA-disease associations with the assumption that drugs will form associations with diseases when they share some significant miRNA partners. Experimental results showed excellent performance of our model. Case studies demonstrated that some of the strongly predicted drug-disease associations can be confirmed by the publicly accessible database CTD (www.ctdbase.org), which indicated the usefulness of our inference model. Moreover, candidate miRNAs as molecular hypotheses underpinning the associations were listed to guide future experiments. The predicted results were released for further studies. We expect that this study will provide help in our understanding of drug-disease association prediction and in the roles of miRNAs in drug repositioning.
Synthesis and Cytotoxicity of POSS Modified Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Xue Yuhua , Chen Hao
Published: February 2015

Single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) decorated with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) were synthesized via the amide linkages between the acid treated SWNTs and amine‐functionalized POSS. The successful modification of SWNTs with POSS was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and UV‐Vis spectra. The resulting SWNTs‐POSS can be dispersed in both water and organic solutions. The biocompatibility and cytotoxicity of the SWNTs and SWNTs‐POSS were evaluated by CCK‐8 viability assays, which indicated that SWNTs‐POSS exhibit very extremely low toxicity. The low toxicity of the POSS modified SWNTs leads to more opportunities for using carbon nanotubes in biomedical fields.
PET-Specific Parameters and Radiotracers in Theoretical Tumour Modelling
Authors: Jennings Matthew , Marcu Loredana G. , Bezak Eva
Published: February 2015

The innovation of computational techniques serves as an important step toward optimized, patient-specific management of cancer. In particular,in silicosimulation of tumour growth and treatment response may eventually yield accurate information on disease progression, enhance the quality of cancer treatment, and explain why certain therapies are effective where others are not.In silicomodelling is demonstrated to considerably benefit from information obtainable with PET and PET/CT. In particular, models have successfully integrated tumour glucose metabolism, cell proliferation, and cell oxygenation from multiple tracers in order to simulate tumour behaviour. With the development of novel radiotracers to image additional tumour phenomena, such as pH and gene expression, the value of PET and PET/CT data for use in tumour models will continue to grow. In this work, the use of PET and PET/CT information inin silicotumour models is reviewed. The various parameters that can be obtained using PET and PET/CT are detailed, as well as the radiotracers that may be used for this purpose, their utility, and limitations. The biophysical measures used to quantify PET and PET/CT data are also described. Finally, a list ofin silicomodels that incorporate PET and/or PET/CT data is provided and reviewed.
Response of Functionally Graded Material Plate under Thermomechanical Load Subjected to Various Boundary Conditions
Authors: Bhandari Manish , Purohit Kamlesh
Published: February 2015

Functionally graded materials (FGMs) are one of the advanced materials capable of withstanding the high temperature environments. The FGMs consist of the continuously varying composition of two different materials. One is an engineering ceramic to resist the thermal loading from the high-temperature environment, and the other is a light metal to maintain the structural rigidity. In the present study, the properties of the FGM plate are assumed to vary along the thickness direction according to the power law distribution, sigmoid distribution, and exponential distribution. The fundamental equations are obtained using the first order shear deformation theory and the finite element formulation is done using minimum potential energy approach. The numerical results are obtained for different distributions of FGM, volume fractions, and boundary conditions. The FGM plate is subjected to thermal environment and transverse UDL under thermal environment and the response is analysed. Numerical results are provided in nondimensional form.
Dual Band-Notched Microstrip-Fed Vivaldi Antenna Utilizing Compact EBG Structures
Authors: Alshamaileh K. A. , Almalkawi M. J. , Devabhaktuni V. K.
Published: February 2015

We propose an ultra-wideband (UWB) antipodal Vivaldi antenna (AVA) with high-Qstopband characteristics based on compact electromagnetic bandgap (EBG) structures. First, an AVA is designed and optimized to operate over an UWB spectrum. Then, two pairs of EBG cells are introduced along the antenna feed line to suppress the frequency components at 3.6–3.9 and 5.6–5.8 GHz (i.e., WiMAX and ISM bands, resp.). Simulated and measured results show a voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) below 2 for the entire 3.1–10.6 GHz band with high attenuation at the two selected subbands. This simple yet effective approach eliminates the need to deform the antenna radiators with slots/parasitic elements or comprise multilayer substrates. Furthermore, the flexibility it offers in terms of controlling both the number and locations of the band-reject frequencies is advantageous for antennas with nonuniform flares as in the AVA.
Ab InitioStudy of Strain Effects on the Quasiparticle Bands and Effective Masses in Silicon
Authors: Bouhassoune Mohammed , Schindlmayr Arno
Published: February 2015

Usingab initiocomputational methods, we study the structural and electronic properties of strained silicon, which has emerged as a promising technology to improve the performance of silicon-based metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors. In particular, higher electron mobilities are observed inn-doped samples with monoclinic strain along the [110] direction, and experimental evidence relates this to changes in the effective mass as well as the scattering rates. To assess the relative importance of these two factors, we combine density-functional theory in the local-density approximation with theGWapproximation for the electronic self-energy and investigate the effect of uniaxial and biaxial strains along the [110] direction on the structural and electronic properties of Si. Longitudinal and transverse components of the electron effective mass as a function of the strain are derived from fits to the quasiparticle band structure and a diagonalization of the full effective-mass tensor. The changes in the effective masses and the energy splitting of the conduction-band valleys for uniaxial and biaxial strains as well as their impact on the electron mobility are analyzed. The self-energy corrections withinGWlead to band gaps in excellent agreement with experimental measurements and slightly larger effective masses than in the local-density approximation.
The -844 G>A PAI-1 Polymorphism Is Associated with Acute Coronary Syndrome in Mexican Population
Authors: García-González Ilian Janet , Valle Yeminia , Sandoval-Pinto Elena , Valdés-Alvarado Emmanuel , Valdez-Haro Angélica , Francisco Muñoz-Valle José , Flores-Salinas Héctor Enrique , Figuera-Villanueva Luis Eduardo , Dávalos-Rodríguez Nory Omayra , Padilla-Gutiérrez Jorge Ramón
Published: February 2015

Background. Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) has an important impact in public health with high morbidity and mortality. Prothrombotic and proinflammatory states are involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) is the major inhibitor of the fibrinolysis and also is part of immune response. The -844 G>A gene polymorphism is related to increased PAI-1 protein levels. The aim of the study is to evaluate the association of -844 G>A PAI-1 polymorphism with ACS.Methods. A total of 646 individuals were recruited from Western Mexico: 350 unrelated healthy subjects and 296 patients with diagnosis of ACS.Results. The most important risk factor in our population was hypertension, followed by smoking. The genetic distribution showed an association of the A allele (OR=1.27,P=0.04) and AA genotype (OR=1.86,P=0.02) with ACS. The recessive model displayed similar results (OR=1.76,P=0.02). As additional finding, we observed significant differences in the genetic distribution of ACS dyslipidemic patients (OR=1.99,P=0.04). The A allele and AA genotype of -844 polymorphism of PAI-1 gene are risk factors for ACS. The AA genotype might be associated with the development of dyslipidemia in ACS patients.
Mechanical Properties of High‐Viscosity Glass Ionomer Cement and Nanoparticle Glass Carbomer
Authors: Olegário Isabel Cristina , Malagrana Anna Paula Vieira Ferreira Prado , Kim Sabrina Sun Ha , Hesse Daniela , Tedesco Tamara Kerber , Calvo Ana Flávia Bissoto , Camargo Lucila Basto , Raggio Daniela Prócida
Published: February 2015

Introduction. The lack of evidence regarding the best available material for restoring occlusal‐proximal cavities in primary teeth leads to the development of new restorative material, with nanoparticles, in order to enhance mechanical properties, resulting in increased restoration longevity. Aim. To evaluate the Knoop hardness and bond strength of nanoparticles material glass carbomer cement (CAR) and high‐viscosity glass ionomer cement (GIC) in sound and caries‐affected dentin. Methods. Forty bovine incisors were selected and assigned into four groups (n = 10): SGIC, sound dentin and GIC; SCAR, sound dentin and CAR; CGIC, caries‐affected dentin and GIC; and CCAR, caries‐affected dentin and CAR. All groups were submitted to microshear bond strength (MPa). Knoop hardness was also performed. Bond strength values were subjected to two‐way ANOVA and Tukey test. Knoop hardness data were subjected to one‐way ANOVA. Results. GIC presented higher Knoop hardness (P < 0.001) and bond strength (P = 0.027) than CAR. Also, both materials showed better performance in sound than in caries‐affected substrates (P = 0.001). The interaction between factors was not statistically different (P = 0.494). Conclusion. Despite nanoparticles, CAR shows inferior performance as compared to GIC for the two properties tested in vitro. Moreover, sound dentin results in better bonding performance of both restorative materials evaluated.
Alloxan-Induced Diabetes Causes Morphological and Ultrastructural Changes in Rat Liver that Resemble the Natural History of Chronic Fatty Liver Disease in Humans
Authors: Lucchesi Amanda Natália , Cassettari Lucas Langoni , Spadella César Tadeu
Published: February 2015

Purpose. This study evaluated the long-term effects of alloxan-induced diabetes in rat liver.Methods. Thirty nondiabetic control rats (NC) and 30 untreated diabetic (UD) rats were divided into three subgroups sacrificed after 6, 14, or 26 weeks. Clinical and laboratory parameters were assessed. Fresh liver weight and its relationship with body weight were obtained, and liver tissue was analyzed.Results. UD rats showed sustained hyperglycemia, high glycosylated hemoglobin, and low plasma insulin. High serum levels of AST and ALT were observed in UD rats after 2 weeks, but only ALT remained elevated throughout the experiment. Fresh liver weight was equal between NC and UD rats, but the fresh liver weight/body weight ratio was significantly higher in UD rats after 14 and 26 weeks. UD rats showed liver morphological changes characterized by hepatic sinusoidal enlargement and micro- and macrovesicular hepatocyte fatty degeneration with progressive liver structure loss, steatohepatitis, and periportal fibrosis. Ultrastructural changes of hepatocytes, such as a decrease in the number of intracytoplasmic organelles and degeneration of mitochondria, rough endoplasmic reticulum, and nuclei, were also observed.Conclusion. Alloxan-induced diabetes triggered liver morphological and ultrastructural changes that closely resembled human disease, ranging from steatosis to steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis.
The Current Testing Protocols for Biomechanical Evaluation of Lumbar Spinal Implants in Laboratory Setting: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Gonzalez-Blohm Sabrina A. , Doulgeris James J. , Lee William E. , Shea Thomas M. , Aghayev Kamran , Vrionis Frank D.
Published: February 2015

In vitrobiomechanical investigations have become a routinely employed technique to explore new lumbar instrumentation. One of the most important advantages of such investigations is the low risk present when compared to clinical trials. However, the best use of any experimental data can be made when standard testing protocols are adopted by investigators, thus allowing comparisons among studies. Experimental variables, such as the length of the specimen, operative level, type of loading (e.g., dynamic versus quasistatic), magnitude, and rate of load applied, are among the most common variables controlled during spinal biomechanical testing. Although important efforts have been made to standardize these protocols, high variability can be found in the current literature. The aim of this investigation was to conduct a systematic review of the literature to identify the current trends in the protocols reported for the evaluation of new lumbar spinal implants under laboratory setting.
Effect of Weight Loss on Serum Osteocalcin and Its Association with Serum Adipokines
Authors: Albadah Mohammed S. , Dekhil Hafedh , Shaik Shaffi Ahamed , Alsaif Mohammed A. , Shogair Mustafa , Nawaz Shahid , Alfadda Assim A.
Published: February 2015

Studies have suggested that osteocalcin, a bone formation marker, is related to body metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Whether this relation is mediated through an interaction with adipokines remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of weight loss on serum osteocalcin and its relation with three adipokines, adiponectin, chemerin, and resistin. Forty-nine obese nondiabetic males completed a four-month dietary program. Body mass index (BMI) decreased significantly from39.7±7.6to37.8±7.6(P<0.001). This was associated with significant reduction in waist circumference, fasting blood glucose, HOMA-IR, total and LDL-cholesterol, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP), and resistin (P<0.05). There was significant increase in serum adiponectin and undercarboxylated osteocalcin (uOC) (P<0.001). The changes in uOC levels were negatively correlated with changes in serum triglycerides (r=-0.51,P<0.001) and positively correlated with changes in BAP (r=0.52,P<0.001). In contrast, the changes in uOC were not correlated with changes in BMI, waist circumference, fasting blood glucose, HOMA-IR, total and LDL-cholesterol, hsCRP, vitamin D, and circulating adipokines. We concluded that the increase in serum uOC following weight loss is not related to the changes in circulating adipokines levels.
Acute and Subchronic Toxicity Profile of Euphorbia pulcherrima Methanol Extract on Wistar Albino Rats
Authors: Sharif H. B. , Mukhtar M. D. , Mustapha Y. , Baba Gabi , Lawal A. O.
Published: February 2015

This work was designed to evaluate the acute and subchronic toxicity of E. pulcherrima methanol extract. Mean lethal dose (LD50) and subchronic toxicity were determined using Lorke’s method to assess the effect of the extract on kidney and liver functions along histopathology assessment of the liver and kidney, respectively. The LD50 determined was 3807.89 mg/kg both orally and intraperitoneally. The kidney function parameters indicated elevation of the serum urea above the normal value in both control and the group treated with 10 mg/kg of the extract with mean values of 7.92 ± 1.19 and 7.86 ± 1.14 mMol/L, respectively. The creatinine and electrolytes were within the normal values. The results of ALAT, ASAT, ALP, T protein albumin, and bilirubin in all cases were within the normal values. Kidney, liver function parameters, and relative organ weight were statistically insignificant across all groups. This shows that various concentrations of E. pulcherrima extract did not influence negatively the liver and kidney function parameters. Further studies are required to rule out the observed mild hepatic histological changes among a few members of the groups treated with 100 and 1000 mg/kg/day and any possible hepatoprotective and nephron-protective potential the extract may possess.
Investigation of Chaotic and Strange Nonchaotic Phenomena in Nonautonomous Wien-Bridge Oscillator with Diode Nonlinearity
Authors: Rizwana R. , Raja Mohamed I.
Published: February 2015

We have studied the chaotic and strange nonchaotic phenomena of a simple quasiperiodically forced Wien bridge oscillator circuit with diode as the only nonlinearity in this electronic oscillator system responsible for various nonlinear behaviors. Both the experimental results and the numerical simulation results for their confirmation are provided to show the bifurcation process. Various measures used for the numerical confirmation of SNA are power spectrum, maximal Lyapunov exponent, path of translational variables, mean square displacement, projection of poincaré section, log-log plot, and autocorrelation function. Based upon the numerical results, the birth of SNAs has been identified in the band merging route, intermittency route, and blowout bifurcation route. In addition, the birth of SNAs has been analyzed with peculiar mechanism, namely, “0-1 Test” employing the one state dynamical variable.
Group Analysis of Free Convection Flow of a Magnetic Nanofluid with Chemical Reaction
Authors: Uddin Md. Jashim , Bég O. A. , Aziz A. , Ismail A. I. Md.
Published: February 2015

A theoretical study of two-dimensional magnetohydrodynamics viscous incompressible free convective boundary layer flow of an electrically conducting, chemically reacting nanofluid from a convectively heated permeable vertical surface is presented. Scaling group of transformations is used in the governing equations and the boundary conditions to determine absolute invariants. A third-order ordinary differential equation which corresponds to momentum conservation and two second-order ordinary differential equations which correspond to energy and nanoparticle volume fraction (species) conservation are derived. Our (group) analysis indicates that, for the similarity solution, the convective heat transfer coefficient and mass transfer velocity are proportional tox-1/4whilst the reaction rate is proportional tox-1/2, wherexis the axial distance from the leading edge of the plate. The effects of the relevant controlling parameters on the dimensionless velocity, temperature, and nanoparticle volume fraction are examined. The accuracy of the technique we have used was tested by performing comparisons with the results of published work and the results were found to be in good agreement. The present computations indicate that the flow is accelerated and temperature enhanced whereas nanoparticle volume fractions are decreased with increasing order of chemical reaction. Furthermore the flow is strongly decelerated, whereas the nanoparticle volume fraction and temperature are enhanced with increasing magnetic field parameter. Increasing convection-conduction parameter increases velocity and temperatures but has a weak influence on nanoparticle volume fraction distribution. The present study demonstrates the thermal enhancement achieved with nanofluids and also magnetic fields and is of relevance to nanomaterials processing.
Behaviour of Endothelial Cells in a TridimensionalIn VitroEnvironment
Authors: Ayata Raif Eren , Chabaud Stéphane , Auger Michèle , Pouliot Roxane
Published: February 2015

Angiogenesis is a fundamental process in healing, tumor growth, and a variety of medical conditions. For this reason,in vitroangiogenesis is an area of interest for researchers. Additionally,in vitroangiogenesis is important for the survival of prevascularized tissue-engineering models. The aim of this study was to observe the self-tubular organization behaviour of endothelial cells in the self-assembly method. In this study, bilayered and dermal substitutes were prepared using the self-assembly method. Histological, immunostaining, and biochemical tests were performed. The behavioural dynamics of endothelial cells in this biological environment of supportive cells were observed, as were the steps of thein vitroangiogenic cascade with self-organizing capillary-like structures formation. The epidermal component of the substitutes was seen to promote network expansion and density. It also increased the quantity of angiogenic factors (VEGF and Ang-1) without increasing the proinflammatory factor (IL-8). In addition, the increased MMP activity contributed to matrix degradation, which facilitated capillary formation.
Association between Urine Fluoride and Dental Fluorosis as a Toxicity Factor in a Rural Community in the State of San Luis Potosi
Authors: Jarquín-Yañez Lizet , Mejía-Saavedra José de Jesús , Molina-Frechero Nelly , Gaona Enrique , Rocha-Amador Diana Olivia , López-Guzmán Olga Dania , Bologna-Molina Ronell
Published: February 2015

Objective. The aim of this study is to investigate urine fluoride concentration as a toxicity factor in a rural community in the state of San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Materials and Methods. A sample of 111 children exposed to high concentrations of fluoride in drinking water (4.13 mg/L) was evaluated. Fluoride exposure was determined by measuring urine fluoride concentration using the potentiometric method with an ion selective electrode. The diagnosis of dental fluorosis was performed by clinical examination, and the severity of damage was determined using Dean’s index and the Thylstrup‐Fejerskov (TF) index. Results. The range of exposure in the study population, evaluated through the fluoride content in urine, was 1.1 to 5.9 mg/L, with a mean of 3.14 ± 1.09 mg/L. Dental fluorosis was present in all subjects, of which 95% had severe cases. Higher urine fluoride levels and greater degrees of severity occurred in older children. Conclusions. The results show that dental fluorosis was determined by the presence of fluoride exposure finding a high positive correlation between the severity of fluorosis and urine fluoride concentration and the years of exposure suggested a cumulative effect.
Cross‐Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Serbian Version of the ICS SF Male Questionnaire
Authors: Babic Uros , Santric-Milicevic Milena , Bjegovic-Mikanovic Vesna , Argirovic Aleksandar , Stjepanovic Mihailo , Lazovic Dejan , Nale Djordje , Perovic Milan , Dugalic Stefan , Vukotic Vinka
Published: February 2015

Introduction. The objective of this study was to cross‐culturally adapt and validate ICS male SF questionnaire to Serbian language. Materials and Methods. This study included 91 male patients with lower urinary tract symptoms and 24 men with similar age and with confirmed absence of LUTS. ICS male SF questionnaire was translated from English to Serbian language and then back‐translated to English. Results. Internal consistency was high in both dimensions, voiding (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.916) and incontinence (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.763). Comparison of the average scores between patients and controls revealed significant differences in both dimensions: voiding (med = 8 versus med = 0; P < 0.001) and incontinence (med = 3 versus med = 0; P < 0.001). Interclass correlation revealed high testretest validity in both dimensions, voiding ICC = 0.992 (P < 0.001) and incontinece ICC = 0.989 (P < 0.001). Correlation analysis revealed high agreement between ICS male SF voiding dimension and IPSS questionnaire (ρ = 0.943; P < 0.001). Conclusion. The Serbian version of male ICS SF questionnaire showed acceptable reliability and validity. The ICS male SF questionnaire could be used in routine practice as an easy and comprehensive tool for assessment of LUTS.
The Effect of Charge at the Surface of Silver Nanoparticles on Antimicrobial Activity against Gram‐Positive and Gram‐Negative Bacteria: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Abbaszadegan Abbas , Ghahramani Yasamin , Gholami Ahmad , Hemmateenejad Bahram , Dorostkar Samira , Nabavizadeh Mohammadreza , Sharghi Hashem
Published: February 2015

The bactericidal efficiency of various positively and negatively charged silver nanoparticles has been extensively evaluated in literature, but there is no report on efficacy of neutrally charged silver nanoparticles. The goal of this study is to evaluate the role of electrical charge at the surface of silver nanoparticles on antibacterial activity against a panel of microorganisms. Three different silver nanoparticles were synthesized by different methods, providing three different electrical surface charges (positive, neutral, and negative). The antibacterial activity of these nanoparticles was tested against gram‐positive (i.e., Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, and Streptococcus pyogenes) and gram‐negative (i.e., Escherichia coli and Proteus vulgaris) bacteria. Well diffusion and micro‐dilution tests were used to evaluate the bactericidal activity of the nanoparticles. According to the obtained results, the positively‐charged silver nanoparticles showed the highest bactericidal activity against all microorganisms tested. The negatively charged silver nanoparticles had the least and the neutral nanoparticles had intermediate antibacterial activity. The most resistant bacteria were Proteus vulgaris. We found that the surface charge of the silver nanoparticles was a significant factor affecting bactericidal activity on these surfaces. Although the positively charged nanoparticles showed the highest level of effectiveness against the organisms tested, the neutrally charged particles were also potent against most bacterial species.
Tai Chi Chuan for the Primary Prevention of Stroke in Middle-Aged and Elderly Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zheng Guohua , Huang Maomao , Liu Feiwen , Li Shuzhen , Tao Jing , Chen Lidian
Published: February 2015

Background.Stroke is a major healthcare problem with serious long-term disability and is one of the leading causes of death in the world. Prevention of stroke is considered an important strategy.Methods.Seven electronic databases were searched.Results.36 eligible studies with a total of 2393 participants were identified. Primary outcome measures, TCC exercise combined with other intervention had a significant effect on decreasing the incidence of nonfatal stroke (n=185, RR = 0.11, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.85,P=0.03) and CCD (n=125, RR = 0.33, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.96,P=0.04). For the risk factors of stroke, pooled analysis demonstrated that TCC exercise was associated with lower body weight, BMI, FBG level, and decreasing SBP, DBP, plasma TC, and LDL-C level regardless of the intervention period less than half a year or more than one year and significantly raised HDL-C level in comparison to nonintervention. Compared with other treatments, TCC intervention on the basis of the same other treatments in patients with chronic disease also showed the beneficial effect on lowering blood pressure.Conclusion.The present systematic review indicates that TCC exercise is beneficially associated with the primary prevention of stroke in middle-aged and elderly adults by inversing the high risk factors of stroke.
Extracellular Biosynthesis of Copper and Copper Oxide Nanoparticles by Stereum hirsutum, a Native White‐Rot Fungus from Chilean Forests
Authors: Cuevas R. , Durán N. , Diez M. C. , Tortella G. R. , Rubilar O.
Published: February 2015

The white‐rot fungus Stereum hirsutum was studied to evaluate its applicability for use in the biosynthesis of copper/copper oxide nanoparticles under different pH conditions and in the presence of three different copper salts (CuCl2, CuSO4, and Cu(NO3)2). The nanoparticle formation was evaluated by UV‐visible spectroscopy, electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The nanoparticles biosynthesis in presence of all copper salts demonstrated higher formation with 5 mM CuCl2 under alkaline conditions. TEM analysis confirmed that the nanoparticles were mainly spherical (5 to 20 nm). The presence of amine groups attached to nanoparticles was confirmed by FTIR, which suggests that extracellular protein of fungus is responsible for the formation of the nanoparticles. Therefore, the white‐rot fungus S. hirsutum was found to exhibit potential for use in the synthesis of copper/copper oxide nanoparticles.
Preparation and Photocatalytic Properties of TiO2-Al2O3Composite Loaded Catalysts
Authors: Pei Jianzhong , Ma Weisi , Li Rui , Li Yanwei , Du Hongzhao
Published: February 2015

This paper presents an experimental approach to study catalytic effects of Fe3+modified nanometer titanium dioxide (TiO2) loaded on aluminium oxide (Al2O3). Sol-gel method was used to prepare modified TiO2loaded on carrier. Purification tests were conducted in a self-developed instrument to study catalytic effects of TiO2loaded on Al2O3with different contents through degradation rate. The modification mechanism was studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results showed that loading on Al2O3improved photocatalytic effect of TiO2modified with Fe3+. The best photocatalytic effect was achieved under catalytic action of Al2O3loaded with 10% TiO2composite; the degradation rates were 6.9%, 13.8%, 21.4%, and 49.2%, respectively, 0.7%, 3.9%, 1.3%, and 15.1% larger than unloaded TiO2. SEM results of four catalysts showed that nanometer TiO2was coated in form of grain on the surface of Al2O3. The optimal loading content was 10% at which the nanometer TiO2grains were coated on the surface of Al2O3uniformly.
Bp-13 PLA2: Purification and Neuromuscular Activity of a New Asp49 Toxin Isolated fromBothrops pauloensisSnake Venom
Authors: Sucasaca-Monzón Georgina , Randazzo-Moura Priscila , Rocha Thalita , Torres-Huaco Frank Denis , Vilca-Quispe Augusto , Ponce-Soto Luis Alberto , Marangoni Sérgio , da Cruz-Höfling Maria Alice , Rodrigues-Simioni Léa
Published: February 2015

A new PLA2(Bp-13) was purified fromBothrops pauloensissnake venom after a single chromatographic step of RP-HPLC onμ-Bondapak C-18. Amino acid analysis showed a high content of hydrophobic and basic amino acids and 14 half-cysteine residues. The N-terminal sequence showed a high degree of homology with basic Asp49 PLA2myotoxins from otherBothropsvenoms. Bp-13 showed allosteric enzymatic behavior and maximal activity at pH 8.1, 36°–45°C. Full Bp-13 PLA2activity required Ca2+; its PLA2activity was inhibited by Mg2+, Mn2+, Sr2+, and Cd2+in the presence and absence of 1 mM Ca2+. In the mouse phrenic nerve-diaphragm (PND) preparation, the time for 50% paralysis was concentration-dependent (P<0.05). Both the replacement of Ca2+by Sr2+and temperature lowering (24°C) inhibited the Bp-13 PLA2-induced twitch-tension blockade. Bp-13 PLA2inhibited the contractile response to direct electrical stimulation in curarized mouse PND preparation corroborating its contracture effect. In biventer cervicis preparations, Bp-13 induced irreversible twitch-tension blockade and the KCl evoked contracture was partially, but significantly, inhibited (P>0.05). The main effect of this new Asp49 PLA2ofBothrops pauloensisvenom is on muscle fiber sarcolemma, with avian preparation being less responsive than rodent preparation. The study enhances biochemical and pharmacological characterization ofB. pauloensisvenom.
Incidence and Correlates of Maternal Near Miss in Southeast Iran
Authors: Naderi Tayebeh , Foroodnia Shohreh , Omidi Samaneh , Samadani Faezeh , Nakhaee Nouzar
Published: February 2015

This prospective study aimed to estimate the incidence and associated factors of severe maternal morbidity in southeast Iran. During a 9-month period in 2013, all women referring to eight hospitals for termination of pregnancy as well as women admitted during 42 days after the termination of pregnancy were enrolled into the study. Maternal near miss conditions were defined based on Say et al.’s recommendations. Five hundred and one cases of maternal near miss and 19,908 live births occurred in the study period, yielding a maternal near miss ratio of 25.2 per 1000 live births. This rate was 7.5 and 105 per 1000 in private and tertiary care settings, respectively. The rate of maternal death in near miss cases was 0.40% with a case:fatality ratio of 250 : 1. The most prevalent causes of near miss were severe preeclampsia (27.3%), ectopic pregnancy (18.4%), and abruptio placentae (16.2%). Higher age, higher education, and being primiparous were associated with a higher risk of near miss. Considering the high rate of maternal near miss in referral hospitals, maternal near miss surveillance system should be set up in these hospitals to identify cases of severe maternal morbidity as soon as possible.