bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Meniscal and Ligamentous Injuries in Lateral Tibial Plateau Fractures Based on Measurements of Lateral Plateau Widening on Multidetector Computed Tomography Scans
Authors: Kolb Jan P. , Regier Marc , Vettorazzi Eik , Stiel Norbert , Petersen Jan P. , Behzadi Cyrus , Rueger Johannes M. , Spiro Alexander S.
Published: July 2018

Background. The influence of increasing lateral plateau widening on the frequency of meniscal and ligamentous lesions in lateral tibial plateau fractures has been examined in very few studies using plain radiographs. Because the amount of this parameter cannot be measured accurately on plain radiographs, the purpose of this survey was to look for a possible correlation between the extent of lateral plateau widening, as measured on multidetector CT (MDCT) scans, and different soft-tissue injuries determined from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods. 55 patients with a lateral tibial plateau fracture were included in this retrospective case series. Patient age averaged 52.6 years (SD = 18.0). The degree of lateral plateau widening was measured on CT images. MRIs were screened for meniscal and ligamentous injuries. Results. We found a significant effect of increasing lateral plateau widening on the incidence of lateral meniscus lesions (P = 0.021), lateral collateral ligament tears (P = 0.047), and the overall quantity of meniscal and ligamentous lesions (P = 0.001). Discussion. MRIs are not widely used as a diagnostic tool in lateral plateau fractures of the tibia. Reasons might be the costs and the fact that it is a time-consuming examination. The results of this study may help to estimate the probability of specific soft-tissue lesions in lateral tibial plateau fractures based on measurements of lateral plateau widening on MDCT scans, and they may guide the decision for additional MRI and/or arthroscopically assisted repair.
Relationship between Color CIEL∗a∗b∗ and Total Organic Carbon in Compost
Authors: Palechor-Tróchez Jhon Jairo , Ordoñez Santos Luis Eduardo , Villada-Castillo Hector Samuel
Published: July 2018

The coordinates and the total organic carbon content in compost were correlated. Two particle sizes of 0.5 and 2 mm were obtained in the compost samples; the surface color was analyzed with a colorimeter and the total organic carbon content by spectrophotometry at 588.9 nm. The results indicate that all chromaticity values were significantly affected (p < 0.001) by particle size. Chromaticity values a∗, b∗, C∗, and h° showed significantly strong Pearson correlations (r > 0.95). The coordinates a∗ (r = −0.992) and b∗ (r = 0.968) have the potential to be used in estimating the total organic carbon concentration in the compost samples analyzed.
Intravitreal Dexamethasone in Patients with Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration Resistant to Anti-VEGF: A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Giancipoli Ermete , Pinna Antonio , Boscia Francesco , Zasa Gianluigi , Sotgiu Giovanni , Dore Simone , D’Amico Ricci Giuseppe
Published: July 2018

Purpose. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a single intravitreal dexamethasone implant (DXI) combined with intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy, in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (wet-AMD) resistant to conventional treatment. Methods. In this randomized, controlled pilot study, 16 eyes of 15 patients, unresponsive to anti-VEGF therapy, were enrolled and randomly assigned to two groups: DXI + anti-VEGF (treatment group: 11 eyes) and monthly anti-VEGF alone (control group: 5 eyes). Patients were treated at baseline and followed for 6 months. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters, and fluorescein angiography (FA) were evaluated. Results. Eight eyes (72.7%) in the treatment group and 2 eyes in the control group (40%) showed complete retinal fluid resorption (p=0.049). BCVA showed no significant change from baseline in both the treatment group and the control group (p=0.40 and p=0.29, respectively). Both median central foveal thickness (CFT) and median macular volume showed a greater reduction from baseline in the treatment group. Conclusion. In patients showing an incomplete response to anti-VEGF therapy, DXI combined with intravitreal anti-VEGF seems to improve retinal fluid resorption without functional advantage. This trial is registered with ACTRN12618001102268.
A Separation Strategy for Connected and Automated Vehicles: Utilizing Traffic Light Information for Reducing Idling at Red Lights and Improving Fuel Economy
Authors: Li Lin-heng , Gan Jing , Li Wen-quan
Published: July 2018

Vehicle platoon composed of a group of connected and automated vehicles (CAVs), a coordinated movement strategy, has been widely proposed to address a range of traffic problems. The motion of vehicle in the platoon passing signalized intersections can significantly affect their total trip time and fuel consumption. With the development of advanced communication technology such as V2V and V2I, CAVs can automatically obtain and use the upcoming traffic light timing information to find optimal velocity profiles that can avoid idling at red lights. This paper proposes an optimal velocity control and separation strategy for the platoon to minimize the trip time and reduce fuel consumption as much as possible. Simulation results show that with the introduction of the velocity control and separation strategy, the total trip time and fuel consumption decrease by 19.2% and 18.1%, respectively. Thus the effectiveness of the proposed strategy is demonstrated.
Association of Obesity and Socioeconomic Status among Women of Childbearing Age Living in Urban Area of Morocco
Authors: Barich Fatima , Zahrou Fatima Ezzahra , Laamiri Fatima Zahra , El Mir Nisrine , Rjimati Manelle , Barkat Amina , Rjimati El Arbi , Aguenaou Hassan
Published: July 2018

Worldwide, obesity is considered as an important public health problem. This study aims to explore the social and economic factors associated with overweight and obesity among women of childbearing age residing in the urban area of Morocco. This is a descriptive and analytical study conducted among women (N=240), aged between 15 and 49 years. At recruitment, socioeconomic status (SES) of each participant was assessed, anthropometric parameters were recorded, and body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were measured to assess overweight and obesity. Data regarding skipped meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) were collected using an adapted questionnaire. The prevalence of overweight and obesity among women of childbearing age was 29.9% and 15.4%, respectively, while for abdominal obesity, the prevalence of overweight and obesity was, respectively, 39.9% and 60.1%. The results indicate that the prevalence of overweight and obesity among women is higher in women aged over 30. A significant association was shown between education level and both BMI and WHR (r1=−0.23, r2=−0.17, p<0.05), respectively, and there is also a significant correlation between household size and WHR abdominal obesity (r=0.21, p=0.05). Our results reinforce the necessity to improve the access of all social classes in Morocco to reliable information on the determinants and consequences of obesity and to develop plans for adequate prevention and management of obesity.
Is Nighttime Really Not the Right Time for a Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
Authors: Geraedts Anna C. M. , Sosef Meindert N. , Greve Jan Willem M. , de Jong Mechteld C.
Published: July 2018

Purpose. The impact of an out-of-hours laparoscopic cholecystectomy on outcome is controversial. We sought to determine the association between an out-of-hours procedure and postoperative complications within 90 days. Methods. Between 2014 and 2016, 1553 laparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed. Therapeutic, operative, and outcome data were prospectively collected and analyzed. We defined out of hours as during weekends, national holidays, and daily between 5PM and 8AM. Results. Most patients operated on were female (n=988; 63.6%) and the majority of procedures were electives (n=1341; 86.3%). Although all procedures were performed with a laparoscopic intent, 42 (2.7%) were converted to open procedure. In total, 145 (9.3%) procedures were out of hours, all nonelective, and in most cases for acute cholecystitis (n=111; 7.1%). Overall, there were 212 complications in 191 patients (12.3%), most (n=153; 9.9%) classified as minor. The conversion rate in the out-of-hours group was significantly higher (9.7% vs 2.0%; p<0.001). While univariate analyses revealed out-of-hours procedure (OR=1.83; p=0.008) to be associated with an increased risk of complications, when controlling for confounding factors by multivariate analysis, this association was not found. However, operation by surgical staff (OR=1.71) and conversion to laparotomy (OR=3.74) were found to be independently associated with an increased risk of complications (both p<0.05), while an emergency procedure tended to be associated with postoperative morbidity (OR=1.82; p=0.069). Conclusion. An out-of-hours laparoscopic cholecystectomy was not found to be an independent risk factor for developing postoperative morbidity and time of day should therefore only be a relative contraindication.
Bidirectional Transcriptome Analysis of Rat Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Activated Microglia in an In Vitro Coculture System
Authors: Lee Da Yeon , Jin Moon Suk , Manavalan Balachandran , Kim Hak Kyun , Song Jun Hyeok , Shin Tae Hwan , Lee Gwang
Published: July 2018

Microglia contribute to the regulation of neuroinflammation and play an important role in the pathogenesis of brain diseases. Thus, regulation of neuroinflammation triggered by activated microglia in brain diseases has become a promising curative strategy. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) have been shown to have therapeutic effects, resulting from the regulation of inflammatory conditions in the brain. In this study, we investigated differential gene expression in rat BM-MSCs (rBM-MSCs) that were cocultured with lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) stimulated primary rat microglia using microarray analysis and evaluated the functional relationships through Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). We also evaluated the effects of rBM-MSC on LPS-stimulated microglia using a reverse coculture system and the same conditions of the transcriptomic analysis. In the transcriptome of rBM-MSCs, 67 genes were differentially expressed, which were highly related with migration of cells, compared to control. The prediction of the gene network using IPA and experimental validation showed that LPS-stimulated primary rat microglia increase the migration of rBM-MSCs. Reversely, expression patterns of the transcriptome in LPS-stimulated primary rat microglia were changed when cocultured with rBM-MSCs. Our results showed that 65 genes were changed, which were highly related with inflammatory response, compared to absence of rBM-MSCs. In the same way with the aforementioned, the prediction of the gene network and experimental validation showed that rBM-MSCs decrease the inflammatory response of LPS-stimulated primary rat microglia. Our data indicate that LPS-stimulated microglia increase the migration of rBM-MSCs and that rBM-MSCs reduce the inflammatory activity in LPS-stimulated microglia. The results of this study show complex mechanisms underlying the interaction between rBM-MSCs and activated microglia and may be helpful for the development of stem cell-based strategies for brain diseases.
A Case of a Pregnant Woman with Thrombosis in an Artificial Aortic Valve Resulting in Severe Cerebral Hemorrhage in the Newborn
Authors: Kamei Hidetake , Wakimoto Yu , Murakami Yumi , Omote Maya , Harada Kayoko , Fukui Atsushi , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Sawai Hideaki , Shibahara Hiroaki
Published: July 2018

Many patients, after artificial valve replacement surgery, receive warfarin anticoagulant therapy. However, it has been reported that warfarin administration during pregnancy can cause fetal teratogenicity. With reference to this case, we will discuss how warfarin administration in mid-pregnancy caused severe cerebral hemorrhage in the newborn child. The 36-year-old patient in this case underwent aortic valve replacement surgery when she was 11 years old; this requires the continued use of warfarin after surgery. Although she was advised otherwise, the patient became pregnant. The warfarin treatment was discontinued at 5 weeks of gestation and she began self-injection of heparin; however, her health quickly deteriorated requiring an emergency, warfarin treatment. On gestation week 21, she was admitted to our hospital with a high likelihood of a spontaneous abortion. A week later, transesophageal ultrasonography revealed a thrombus in the patient’s aortic valve. Because of this finding, we re-started warfarin administration. At 32 weeks of gestation, cardiotocography showed decreased fetal heart rate; thus, an emergency Cesarean section was performed. A baby was delivered, weighing 1,702 g with an Apgar Score of 1 at 1 minute and 4 at 5 minutes. Cranial computed tomography of the infant showed bilateral intraventricular hemorrhage and ventricular dilation. In order to protect the mother and prevent hemorrhage in the newborn, it is recommended that a continuous heparin infusion should be administered to the pregnant woman after the 36th week of gestation. Regarding the impact on the infant, it is considered that continuous intravenous administration of heparin is safer during the third trimester of pregnancy. However, administration of heparin alone makes the preventive effect of thrombosis uncertain. When warfarin is administered in pregnancy, pregnancy management should be performed bearing the risk of fetal cerebral hemorrhage in mind.
Soil-Water Characteristic Curve of Residual Soil from a Flysch Rock Mass
Authors: Peranić Josip , Arbanas Željko , Cuomo Sabatino , Maček Matej
Published: July 2018

Depending on the nature of the material and suction range, laboratory measurements of the soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC) can be time-consuming and expensive, especially for residual soils, in which a wide range of particle sizes and soil structures typically results in SWCCs that cover a wide range of suction. Investigations of the SWCCs of residual soil from flysch rock masses are rare, and so far, no results were presented in the literature which were obtained by performing measurements on undisturbed specimens. In this paper, a detailed examination of water retention characteristics is performed for a specific type of residual soil (CL) formed by the weathering of a flysch rock mass. Measurements performed by using different techniques and devices on intact specimens were successfully combined to obtain the SWCC during both drying and wetting processes, under different stress conditions, and from saturated to air-dried conditions. Used procedures are suitable for the determination of SWCCs of soils that undergo volume changes during the drying or the wetting process, since instantaneous volumetric water content can be determined. Results presented in this paper can be used to assess the influence of desaturation of the residual soil covering flysch slopes during dry summer periods by providing key-in material properties required to analyze the transient rainfall infiltration process.
Bootstrapping of FHE over the Integers with Large Message Space
Authors: Lian Zhizhu , Hu Yupu , Chen Hu , Wang Baocang
Published: July 2018

For the decryption of the fully homomorphic encryption (FHE) over the integers with the message space ZQ, Nuida and Kurosawa proposed a Q4λ-multiplicative-degree circuit to compute it at Eurocrypt 2015, where λ is the security parameter and the message size Q is a constant. Since the degree of the decryption circuit is polynomial in Q, the range of the message size Q is limited. In this work, we solve this open problem as long as Q is large enough (larger than λ). We represent the decryption circuit as a arithmetic polynomial of multiplicative degree 108·λ log3λ, which is independent of the message size Q except a constraint Q>λ. Moreover, the bootstrapping process requires only O(λ·log⁡λ) number of multiplications to implement the decryption circuit, which is significantly lower than O(λ4) of Nuida and Kurosawa’s work. We also show the efficiency of the FHE scheme with message space ZQ compared to the FHE scheme with binary message space. As a result, we have that the former is preferable.
The Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 Is Associated with Active Inflammation in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Toledo-Mauriño Joel Jesús , Furuzawa-Carballeda Janette , Villeda-Ramírez Marco A. , Fonseca-Camarillo Gabriela , Meza-Guillen Daniela , Barreto-Zúñiga Rafael , Yamamoto-Furusho Jesús K.
Published: July 2018

The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) may play a role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). The aim of the study was to determine the gene and protein expression of TRPV1 in UC patients and noninflamed controls. Gene expression was performed by RT-PCR, and protein expression was performed by immunohistochemistry. The gene expression of TRPV1 was significantly increased in the remission UC group compared to active UC patients (P=0.002), and an upregulation of the TRPV1 gene was associated with clinical outcomes such as age at diagnosis (<40 years) (P=0.02) and clinical disease course characterized by relapsing and continuous activity (P=0.07). TRPV1 immunoreactive cells were conspicuously higher in all intestinal layers from active UC patients compared with noninflamed control tissue. These findings suggest that TRPV1 might be involved in UC pathogenesis.
Uneven Precipitation Behavior during the Solutionizing Course of Al‐Cu‐Mn Alloys and Their Contribution to High Temperature Strength
Authors: Chen Jinlong , Liao Hengcheng , Xu Heting
Published: July 2018

The dispersoid precipitation behavior during the solutionizing and aging of Al‐xwt.%Cu‐1.0 wt.% Mn alloys (x = 2.0, 4.5, and 7.5) and contribution to mechanical properties were investigated using tensile testing and microstructural characterization. A shell‐core structure of primary α‐Al dendrites is found in Al‐Cu‐Mn alloys, in which the Cu content in the shell is higher than that in the core. The area of shell zone (Cu‐rich) increases with an increase in Cu content in the alloy. Large amounts of fine dispersoid Al‐Cu‐Mn particles precipitate in solution. An alloy with low Cu content results in only the TMn (Al20Cu2Mn3) particles being precipitated. However, in an alloy with high Cu content, AlCu3Mn2 particles are first found to precipitate beside TMn. However, this precipitation behavior is uneven. The precipitation zones in the solution microstructure are consistent with the Cu‐rich regions in the as‐cast microstructure. A number of fine particles (dozens nanometer in size) are first found to precipitate on the rod‐like TMn particles during the aging phase. The redissolution and granulation of the eutectic CuAl2 phase during the solutionizing process result in the formation of particle‐free bands between the precipitation zones. The tension test at 300°C demonstrates that the increase in high temperature strength is due to the dispersoid precipitation during solutionizing, and the precipitation behavior in the aging phase has little or no effect, however, largely improves the tensile strength at room temperature. High temperature strength is significantly increased with an increase in Cu content, which correlates to an increase in number and decrease in size of TMn and AlCu3Mn2 particles.
Efficacy of Transdermal Oxybutynin in the Treatment of Overactive Bladder Syndrome: Does It Make Sense Using It in 2017?
Authors: Vozmediano-Chicharro Raúl , Madurga Blanca , Blasco Pedro
Published: July 2018

Objectives. Evaluation of changes in symptoms among patients with overactive bladder syndrome treated with transdermal oxybutynin and tolerability after 12 months of follow-up. Methods. This was a multicenter, retrospective, single-cohort, observational study. Changes in symptoms were evaluated primarily with a 3-day voiding diary. Results were compared to baseline. Subgroup analyses were performed in patients previously treated for OAB or not and aged < 65 years versus ≥65 years. Results. Clinical records of 105 patients were examined; 92.4% were women. At 12 months, 58 patients continued to receive transdermal oxybutynin. Changes in symptoms according to the voiding diary were evaluated in 47 patients. Significant improvements from baseline were observed in urinary frequency (−2.6 voids/24 hours (95% CI: −3.5; −1.8), p<0.001); daily number of urgent episodes (−4.7 episodes/day (95% CI: −6.1; −3.6), p<0.001); and urge incontinence (−1.9 episodes/day (95% CI: −2.9; −1.3), p<0.001). No statistically significant differences were found in subgroup analyses. In total, 38.1% of patients had adverse events, primarily in the application site (27.6%). No severe systemic adverse events occurred. Only 6 patients (5.7%) reported dry mouth. Conclusions. Improved symptoms and good tolerability observed after 1 year of treatment with transdermal oxybutynin shows that it currently has a place in the treatment of OAB patients.
Assessment of Healthcare Waste Management Paradigms and Its Suitable Treatment Alternative: A Case Study
Authors: Hasan Mohammad Mehedi , Rahman M. Habibur
Published: July 2018

The management and treatment of healthcare waste (HCW) are of great concern owing to its potential hazard to human health and the environment, particularly in developing countries. Nowadays, various technological alternatives are gaining momentum as efficient and favorable waste management options across the world. However, selecting a suitable technology as well as an effective waste management approach for the treatment of HCW is still a challenging task for the municipal authorities. This study renders a comprehensive analysis of healthcare waste management (HCWM) practices and the technological options for its better management through a case study in Khulna, the southwestern division of Bangladesh. A number of healthcare establishments (HCEs) in the study area were selected and a questionnaire survey, as well as field investigations, was performed to find out the present status of HCWM and its limitations. An assessment of different technological alternatives was also carried out using Sustainability Assessment of Technologies (SAT) methodology which could pave the way for treating hazardous waste more efficiently in the Khulna metropolitan area. The study revealed that the overall HCW generation rate and hazardous HCW generation rate in Khulna city were 0.90 kg bed−1 day−1 and 0.18 kg bed−1 day−1, respectively. Assessment of management system revealed that 56% (n=38) of workers did not receive any form of training in the handling of hazardous waste. Around 54% (n=47) of them did not use any safety equipment or clothing. It has been found from the study that, among different technological alternatives based on the final score, incineration was the most suitable option for the treatment of hazardous waste in Khulna. Finally, some guidelines have been put forward to improve its existing management practices.
A Comparison of Ki67, Syndecan-1 (CD138), and Molecular RANK, RANKL, and OPG Triad Expression in Odontogenic Keratocyts, Unicystic Ameloblastoma, and Dentigerous Cysts
Authors: Brito-Mendoza Luisana , Bologna-Molina Ronell , Irigoyen-Camacho María Esther , Martinez Guillermo , Sánchez-Romero Celeste , Mosqueda-Taylor Adalberto
Published: July 2018

Background and Objective. Reduced expression of syndecan-1 (CD138), increased proliferation index, and modifications in the expression of the molecular RANK/RANKL/OPG triad are related to an intensified potential of aggressiveness and invasion of diverse tumors and cysts. The aim was to compare the expression of Ki-67, CD138, and the molecular triad RANK, RANKL, and OPG in odontogenic keratocysts (OKC), unicystic ameloblastomas (UA), and dentigerous cysts (DC). Methods. Immunohistochemistry for Ki-67, CD138, RANK, RANKL, and OPG was performed in 58 odontogenic cystic lesions (22 OKC, 17 DC, and 19 UA). Results. A higher expression of Ki-67 was identified in OKC as compared to UA (p<0.0001). UA exhibited a greater loss of CD138 expression versus OKCs (p>0.0034). RANKL was expressed higher in the epithelium (p=0.0002) and in the stroma (p=0.0004) of UA. DC had a lower expression of these markers. Conclusion. Higher RANKL expression together with the reduction on CD138 expression in UA could be linked to a greater invasive and destructive potential, while the increased proliferation rate observed in OKC could be related to its continuous intrabony growth. The expansion of DC does not seem to be related to such factors, justifying the different therapeutic approaches proposed for each of these entities.
PTH1R-CaSR Cross Talk: New Treatment Options for Breast Cancer Osteolytic Bone Metastases
Authors: Yang Yanmei , Wang Bin
Published: July 2018

Metastatic breast cancer (BrCa) is currently incurable despite great improvements in treatment of primary BrCa. The incidence of skeletal metastases in advanced BrCa occurs up to 70%. Recent findings have established that the distribution of BrCa metastases to the skeleton is not a random process but due to the favorable microenvironment for tumor invasion and growth. The complex interplay among BrCa cells, stromal/osteoblastic cells, and osteoclasts in the osseous microenvironment creates a bone-tumor vicious cycle (a feed-forward loop) that results in excessive bone destruction and progressive tumor growth. Both the type 1 PTH receptor (PTH1R) and extracellular calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) participate in the vicious cycle and influence the skeletal metastatic niche. Thus, this review focuses on how the PTH1R and CaSR signaling pathways interact and contribute to the pathogenesis of BrCa bone metastases. The effects of intermittent PTH and allosteric modulators of CaSR for the use of bone-anabolic agents and prevention of BrCa bone metastases constitute a proof of principle for therapeutic consideration. Understanding the interplay between PTH1R and CaSR signaling in the development of BrCa bone metastases could lead to a novel therapeutic approach to control both osteolysis and tumor burden in the bone.
Toxic Effects of Trazodone on Male Reproductive System via Disrupting Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Testicular Axis and Inducing Testicular Oxidative Stress
Authors: Ilgın Sinem , Aydoğan-Kılıç Gözde , Baysal Merve , Kılıç Volkan , Ardıç Mina , Uçarcan Şeyda , Atlı Özlem
Published: July 2018

Depression and anxiety are recognized as public health problems. Epidemiological studies have shown that depression and anxiety often occur during reproductive ages between 20 and 60 years of age in males. Trazodone is one of the most frequently prescribed drugs in the treatment of depression and anxiety. Drugs used in repeated doses also play a role in the etiology of infertility. In our study, it was aimed to identify the possible toxic effects of trazodone on male rats and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Vehicle or trazodone (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg/day) was administered to rats for 28 consecutive days (n = 8 per group). At the end of that period, sperm concentration, motility, morphology, and DNA damage were determined and testicular morphology was assessed histopathologically in rats. Additionally, we investigated hormonal status by determining serum testosterone, FSH, and LH levels and oxidative stress by determining glutathione and malondialdehyde levels in testicular tissue to elucidate mechanisms of possible reproductive toxicity. According to our results, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and normal sperm morphology were decreased; sperm DNA damage was increased in trazodone‐administered groups. Degenerative findings on the testicular structure were observed after trazodone administration in rats. Additionally, serum FSH, LH, and testosterone levels were elevated in the trazodone‐administered groups. Increased MDA levels were the signs of enhanced oxidative stress after trazodone administration in testis tissues. Thus, we concluded that trazodone induced reproductive toxicity in male rats; this reproductive toxicity was accompanied by oxidative stress and hormonal changes, which are considered as important causes of reproductive disorders.
Protocatechuic Acid Attenuates Trabecular Bone Loss in Ovariectomized Mice
Authors: Jang Seon-A , Song Hae Seong , Kwon Jeong Eun , Baek Hyun Jin , Koo Hyun Jung , Sohn Eun-Hwa , Lee Sung Ryul , Kang Se Chan
Published: July 2018

Primary osteoporosis is a disease related to excessive bone resorption due to estrogen insufficiency that occurs postmenopause. Protocatechuic acid (PCA), or 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid, is a common compound present in numerous plants. Although numerous biological activities of PCA have been identified, its antiosteoporotic function has not been well established. In this study, the antiosteoporotic activity of PCA supplementation was determined in ovariectomized (OVX) female ICR mice at 12 weeks after OVX. The biomechanical properties of a bone were evaluated by microcomputed tomography. The signaling molecules associated with osteoclast differentiation were determined in bone marrow cells through immunoblot or RT‐PCR. Oral supplementation with PCA (20 mg/kg/day) significantly ameliorated the OVX‐mediated stimulation of osteoclast activity based on decreases in serum levels of receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL), osteocalcin, and bone alkaline phosphatase and increase in serum osteoprotegerin (each group, n = 6; p < 0.05). In addition, the OVX‐induced decreases in mRNA expression levels of cathepsin K, calcitonin receptor, nuclear factor of activated T cell cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor‐associated factor‐6 (TRAF6) in bone marrow cells were significantly attenuated (each group, n = 6; p < 0.05). Finally, the loss of trabecular bone and changes in biomechanical properties of a bone were significantly improved by supplementation with 20 mg/kg PCA (each group, n = 6; p < 0.05). Collectively, our results show that PCA supplement suppressed trabecular bone loss in OVX mice and therefore might be an effective alternative approach for preventing the progression of postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Disseminated Tuberculosis Presenting as Chronic Orchiepididymitis in a Military Trainee: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Williams Michael U. , Burris Ashley , Zingalis Amy , Lindholm David A. , White Brian K.
Published: July 2018

Orchiepididymitis is a clinical diagnosis. The acute form secondary to sexually transmitted or enteric pathogens is well known to primary care providers. However, chronic orchiepididymitis may be secondary to genitourinary tuberculosis (TB), and physicians in countries with a low prevalence of TB might not consider it in their differential diagnosis. Indeed, cognitive errors, such as anchoring or availability bias, may contribute to a delayed diagnosis of genitourinary TB. We present a case of chronic orchiepididymitis as a result of disseminated TB in a Cameroonian male who was visiting the United States for military training. He experienced diagnostic delay and was ultimately diagnosed by orchiectomy. Early consideration of a diagnosis of TB for chronic or recurrent orchiepididymitis in a patient with epidemiologic risk factors is of utmost importance because delayed diagnosis could lead to organ loss.
Effects of Temporary Functional Deafferentation in Chronic Stroke Patients: Who Profits More?
Authors: Sens Elisabeth , Franz Marcel , Preul Christoph , Meissner Winfried , Witte Otto W. , Miltner Wolfgang H. R. , Weiss Thomas
Published: July 2018

Temporary functional deafferentation (TFD) by an anesthetic cream on the stroke-affected forearm was shown to improve sensorimotor abilities of stroke patients. The present study investigated different predictors for sensorimotor improvements during TFD and indicated outcome differences between patients grouped in subcortical lesions only and lesions with any cortical involvement. Thirty-four chronic stroke patients were temporarily deafferented on the more affected forearm by an anesthetic cream. Somatosensory performance was assessed using von Frey Hair and grating orientation task; motor performance was assessed by a shape-sorter-drum task. Seven potential predictors were entered into three linear multiple regression models. Furthermore, effects of TFD on outcome variables for the two groups (cortical versus subcortical lesion) were compared. Sex and sensory deficit were significant predictors for changes in motor function while age accounted for changes in grating orienting task. Males, patients with a stronger sensory deficit, and older patients profited more. None of the potential predictors made significant contributions to changes in threshold for touch. Furthermore, there were no differences in sensorimotor improvement between lesion site groups. The effects of TFD together with the low predictability of the investigated parameters suggest that characteristics of patients alone are not suitable to exclude some patients from TFD.
High‐Throughput Fast‐SSC Polar Decoder for Wireless Communications
Authors: Zhang Xiaojun , Yan Xiaofeng , Zeng Qingtian , Cui Jianming , Cao Ning , Higgs Russell
Published: July 2018

Polar code has been proven to achieve the symmetric capacity of memoryless channels. However, the successive cancellation decoding algorithm is inherent serial in nature, which will lead to high latency and low throughput. In order to obtain high throughput, we design a deeply pipelined polar decoder and optimize the processing elements and storage structure. We also propose an improved fixed‐point nonuniform quantization scheme, and it is close to the floating‐point performance. Two‐level control strategy is presented to simplify the controller. In addition, we adopt FIFO structure to implement the α_memory and β_memory and propose the 348‐stage pipeline decoder.
The Antidiabetic and Antinephritic Activities of Tuber melanosporum via Modulation of Nrf2‐Mediated Oxidative Stress in the db/db Mouse
Authors: Jiang Xue , Teng Shanshan , Wang Xue , Li Shan , Zhang Yaqin , Wang Di
Published: July 2018

Tuber melanosporum (TM), a valuable edible fungus, contains 19 types of fatty acid, 17 types of amino acid, 6 vitamins, and 7 minerals. The antidiabetic and antinephritic effects of TM and the underlying mechanisms related to oxidative stress were investigated in db/db mice. Eight‐week oral administration of metformin (Met) at 0.1 g/kg and TM at doses of 0.2 and 0.4 g/kg decreased body weight, plasma glucose, serum levels of glycated hemoglobin, triglyceride, and total cholesterol and increased serum levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol in the mice, suggesting hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects. TM promoted glucose metabolism by increasing the levels of pyruvate kinase and hepatic glycogen. It also regulated the levels of inflammatory factors and oxidative enzymes in serum and/or the kidneys of the mice. Additionally, TM increased the expression of nuclear respiratory factor 2 (Nrf2), catalase, heme oxygenase 1, heme oxygenase 2, and manganese superoxide dismutase 2 and decreased the expression of protein kinase C alpha, phosphor‐janus kinase 2, phosphor‐signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, and phosphor‐nuclear factor‐κB in the kidneys. The results of this study reveal the antidiabetic and antidiabetic nephritic properties of TM via modulating oxidative stress and inflammation‐related cytokines through improving the Nrf2 signaling pathway.
APLP2 Modulates JNK-Dependent Cell Migration inDrosophila
Authors: Wang Xingjun , Guo Xiaowei , Ma Yeqing , Wu Chenxi , Li Wenzhe , Xue Lei
Published: July 2018

Amyloid precursor-like protein 2 (APLP2) belongs to the APP family and is widely expressed in human cells. Though previous studies have suggested a role of APLP2 in cancer progression, the exact role of APLP2 in cell migration remains elusive. Here in this report, we show that ectopic expression of APLP2 inDrosophilainduces cell migration which is mediated by JNK signaling, as loss of JNK suppresses while gain of JNK enhances such phenotype. APLP2 is able to activate JNK signaling by phosphorylation of JNK, which triggers the expression of matrix metalloproteinase MMP1 required for basement membranes degradation to promote cell migration. The data presented here unraveled anin vivorole of APLP2 in JNK-mediated cell migration.
Trusted Authority Assisted Three‐Factor Authentication and Key Agreement Protocol for the Implantable Medical System
Authors: Mao Deming , Zhang Ling , Li Xiaoyu , Mu Dejun
Published: July 2018

The application of implantable medical devices (IMDs), which solves the problems of geographical distance limitation and real‐time health monitoring that plague patients and doctors, has caused great repercussions in the medical community. Despite the great potential of wide application, it also brings some security and privacy issues, such as the leakage of health data and unauthorized access to IMDs. Although a number of authentication and key agreement (AKA) schemes have been developed, we find that some subtle attacks still remain to be addressed. Then we propose an improved AKA scheme which achieves strong security features including user anonymity and known key security. It is formally proved to be secure under the Real‐or‐Random model. Moreover, a comprehensive security analysis shows that our scheme can resist various attacks and satisfy the desired requirements. Finally, the performance analysis shows the superiority of our protocol which is suitable for the implantable medical system.
A Case of Gastric Metastatic Melanoma 15 Years after the Initial Diagnosis of Cutaneous Melanoma
Authors: Farshad Sohail , Keeney Scott , Halalau Alexandra , Ghaith Gehad
Published: July 2018

Melanoma is the most common cancer to metastasize to the gastrointestinal tract; however, metastasis to the stomach is a rare occurrence. We present the case of a patient with a history of melanoma of the chest wall 15 years prior to presentation who initially presented to the hospital with sepsis but was later found to have metastatic melanoma in the gastric cardia. This case illustrates the rare occurrence of metastatic melanoma to the stomach which occurred 15 years after the initial skin diagnosis of melanoma was made, its endoscopic appearance, and how the nonspecific symptoms frequently lead to a delayed diagnosis or one that is not made at all until after autopsy. For these reasons, endoscopy should be promptly performed if there is a suspicion of gastrointestinal metastatic melanoma.
Heterotopic Ossification of the Peroneus Longus Tendon in the Retromalleolar Portion with the Peroneus Quartus Muscle: A Case Report
Authors: Chang Song Ho , Matsumoto Takumi , Okajima Koichi , Naito Masashi , Hirose Jun , Tanaka Sakae
Published: July 2018

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is an ectopic formation of the lamellar bone in the soft tissues. Some authors have previously reported HO or calcific tendinitis of the peroneus longus tendon at the level of the cuboid bone, while the HO of the peroneus longus tendon in the retromalleolar portion has not been reported. The purpose of this report is to describe clinical, radiological, and histological features of this rare ossification and its treatment. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report presenting a case of HO of the peroneus longus tendon, which developed in the retromalleolar portion.
Desamerization of Bitter Jam: Biochemical and Sensory Quality
Authors: Lagha-Benamrouche Samira , Benaissa Terkia , Sadoudi Rezki
Published: July 2018

This work consists of studying the influence of the desamerization of the mesocarpe on the chemical composition and the sensorial quality of the jam, based on the bitter orange. The results of the various analysis show that desamerization decreases acidity, sugars, protein, and bioactive compound levels (carotenoids, polyphenols, and vitamin C), but desamerized jams still remain an important source of antioxidant compounds with antioxidant potential in the diet. Concerning the sensory analysis of the jams, the results show that the jam desamerized with water presents the same bitterness as the bitter jam and that the salt significantly reduces the bitterness of the jams.
Metabolic Syndrome and Subclinical Hypothyroidism: A Type 2 Diabetes-Dependent Association
Authors: Bermúdez Valmore , Salazar Juan , Añez Roberto , Rojas Milagros , Estrella Viviana , Ordoñez María , Chacín Maricarmen , Hernández Juan Diego , Arias Víctor , Cabrera Mayela , Cano-Ponce Clímaco , Rojas Joselyn
Published: July 2018

Introduction. Subclinical hypothyroidism (ScH) is an endocrine alteration that is related to cardiovascular risk factors, including those categorized as components of the Metabolic Syndrome (MS). However, findings in prior reports regarding an association between these alterations are inconsistent. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between both entities in adult subjects from Maracaibo City, Venezuela. Materials and Methods. The Maracaibo City Metabolic Syndrome Prevalence Study is a descriptive, cross-sectional study with random and multistage sampling. In this substudy, 391 individuals of both genders were selected and TSH, free T3, and free T4 tests were performed as well as a complete lipid profile, fasting glycaemia, and insulin blood values. ScH was defined according to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) criteria: high TSH (≥4.12mUI/L) and normal free T4 (0.9-1,9 ng/dL) in subjects without personal history of thyroid disease. MS components were defined according to IDF/AHA/NHLBI/WHF/IAS/IASO-2009 criteria. A multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between MS components and ScH diagnosis. Results. Of the evaluated population, 10.5% (n=41) was diagnosed with ScH, with a higher prevalence in women (female: 13.6% versus male: 7.7%; χ2=3.56, p=0.05). Likewise, 56.1% (n=23) of the subjects with ScH were diagnosed with MS (χ2=4.85; p=0.03), being hyperglycemia the main associated criterion (χ2=11.7; p=0.001). In multivariable analysis, it was observed that the relationship was exclusive with the presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) OR: 3.22 (1.14-9.14); p=0.03. Conclusion. The relationship between ScH and MS in our population is dependent on the presence of hyperglycemia, specifically T2DM diagnosis, findings that vary from those previously reported in Latin American subjects.
Intake Fraction of PM10 from Coal Mine Emissions in the North of Colombia
Authors: Arregocés Heli A. , Rojano Roberto , Angulo Luis , Restrepo Gloria
Published: July 2018

Intake fraction was determined in this study to provide insight into population exposures to PM10 that is effectively inhaled due to emissions of an opencast coal mine. We applied the CALPUFF model to a coal mine in Northern Colombia, which has 6 active pits with an annual production of 33.7 million tons. We estimated the intake fractions for 7 towns through the integration of dispersion model results over the population data. The resulting average intake fractions were between 6.13 × 10−9 and 3.66 × 10−8 for PM10. 62.4% of the intake fractions in the domain were calculated within a 23 km radius from the coal mine and coved 44.3% of the total population in this area. We calculated an estimate point for morbidity impacts using standard epidemiological assumptions. It is estimated that there were annually 105835 restricted activity days and 336832 respiratory symptom cases due to the direct impact of the opencast coal mining. These data also provide a framework for improved understanding of the effect of coal mining in Colombia.
Gaussian Fuzzy Number for STR-DNA Similarity Calculation Involving Familial and Tribal Relationships
Authors: Anggreainy Maria Susan , Widyanto M. Rahmat , Widjaja Belawati H. , Soedarsono Nurtami
Published: July 2018

We performed locus similarity calculation by measuring fuzzy intersection between individual locus and reference locus and then performed CODIS STR-DNA similarity calculation. The fuzzy intersection calculation enables a more robust CODIS STR-DNA similarity calculation due to imprecision caused by noise produced by PCR machine. We also proposed shifted convoluted Gaussian fuzzy number (SCGFN) and Gaussian fuzzy number (GFN) to represent each locus value as improvement of triangular fuzzy number (TFN) as used in previous research. Compared to triangular fuzzy number (TFN), GFN is more realistic to represent uncertainty of locus information because the distribution is assumed to be Gaussian. Then, the original Gaussian fuzzy number (GFN) is convoluted with distribution of certain ethnic locus information to produce the new SCGFN which more represents ethnic information compared to original GFN. Experiments were done for the following cases: people with family relationships, people of the same tribe, and certain tribal populations. The statistical test with analysis of variance (ANOVA) shows the difference in similarity between SCGFN, GFN, and TFN with a significant level of 95%. The Tukey method in ANOVA shows that SCGFN yields a higher similarity which means being better than the GFN and TFN methods. The proposed method enables CODIS STR-DNA similarity calculation which is more robust to noise and performed better CODIS similarity calculation involving familial and tribal relationships.
Occupational Therapy Practice in Sleep Management: A Review of Conceptual Models and Research Evidence
Authors: Ho Eris C. M. , Siu Andrew M. H.
Published: July 2018

The effectiveness of sleep intervention developed by occupational therapists was reviewed, and a conceptual framework for organizing the developing practice of sleep management in occupational therapy was proposed in this paper. Evidence-based articles on sleep management practice in occupational therapy from 2007 to 2017 were retrieved. Four types of effective sleep management intervention were identified from the literature, including the use of assistive devices/equipment, activities, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, and lifestyle intervention, and the use of assistive device was the most popular intervention. Applying the Person-Environment-Occupation Performance (PEOP) framework, we developed a conceptual framework for organizing occupational therapy practice in sleep management. The future development of occupation-based sleep intervention could focus on strategies to (1) minimize the influence of bodily function on sleep, (2) promote environment conducive to sleep, and (3) restructure daytime activity with a focus on occupational balance.