bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Missed aortic valve endocarditis resulting in complete atrioventricular block and redo mechanical valve replacement
Authors: Harky Amer , Garner Megan , Popa Miruna , Shipolini Alex
Published: August 2017

Infective endocarditis is a rare disease associated with high morbidity and mortality. As a result, early diagnosis and prompt antibiotic treatment with or without surgical intervention is crucial in the management of such condition.

We report a case of missed infective endocarditis of the aortic valve. The patient underwent mechanical aortic valve replacement, with the native valve being sent for histopathological examination. On re-admission 16 months later, he presented with syncope, shortness of breathing and complete heart block. On review of the histopathology of native aortic valve, endocarditis was identified which had not been acted on. The patient underwent redo aortic valve replacement for severe aortic regurgitation.

We highlight the importance of following up histopathological results as well as the need for multidisciplinary treatment of endocarditis with a combination of surgical and antibiotic therapy.
Randomised clinical simulation designed to evaluate the effect of telemedicine using Google Glass on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
Authors: Pérez Alonso Nuria , Pardo Rios Manuel , Juguera Rodriguez Laura , Vera Catalan Tomas , Segura Melgarejo Francisca , Lopez Ayuso Belen , Martí­nez Riquelme Carolina , Lasheras Velasco Joaquin
Published: August 2017

Aim

Through a clinical simulation, this study aims to assess the effect of telematics support through Google Glass (GG) from an expert physician on performance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) performed by a group of nurses, as compared with a control group of nurses receiving no assistance.

Methods

This was a randomised study carried out at the Catholic University of Murcia (November 2014–February 2015). Nursing professionals from the Emergency Medical Services in Murcia (Spain) were asked to perform in a clinical simulation of cardiac arrest. Half of the nurses were randomly chosen to receive coaching from physicians through GG, while the other half did not receive any coaching (controls). The main outcome of the study expected was successful defibrillation, which restores sinus rhythm.

Results

Thirty-six nurses were enrolled in each study group. Statistically significant differences were found in the percentages of successful defibrillation (100% GG vs 78% control; p=0005) and CPR completion times: 213.91 s for GG and 250.31 s for control (average difference=36.39 s (95% CI 12.03 to 60.75), p=0.004).

Conclusions

Telematics support by an expert through GG improves success rates and completion times while performing CPR in simulated clinical situations for nurses in simulated scenarios.
Thrombectomy versus medical management for large vessel occlusion strokes with minimal symptoms: an analysis from STOPStroke and GESTOR cohorts
Authors: Haussen Diogo C , Lima Fabricio O , Bouslama Mehdi , Grossberg Jonathan A , Silva Gisele S , Lev Michael H , Furie Karen , Koroshetz Walter , Frankel Michael R , Nogueira Raul G
Published: August 2017

Introduction

It remains unclear whether patients presenting with large vessel occlusion strokes and mild symptoms benefit from thrombectomy.

Objective

To compare outcomes of endovascular therapy versus medical management in patients with large vessel occlusion strokes and National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≤5.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis combining two large prospectively collected datasets including patients with (1) admission NIHSS score ≤5, (2) premorbid modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 0–2, and (3) middle cerebral-M1/M2, intracranial carotid, anterior cerebral or basilar artery occlusions. Groups receiving (1) endovascular treatment and (2) medical management were compared. The primary and secondary outcome measures were NIHSS shift (discharge NIHSS minus admission NIHSS) and the rates of mRS 0–2 at discharge and 3–6 months, respectively. Univariate, multivariate, and matched analyses were performed.

Results

Eighty-eight patients received medical management and 30 thrombectomy. Multivariable analysis indicated thrombectomy was the only predictor of favorable NIHSS shift (β −3.7, 95% CI −6.0 to −1.5, p=0.02), as well as independence at discharge (β −21.995% CI −41.4to −20.8, p<0.01) and 3–6-month follow-up (β −21.1, 95% CI −39.1 to −19.7, p<0.01). A matched analysis (based on age, baseline NIHSS and intravenous tissue plasminogen activator use) produced 26 pairs. Endovascular therapy was statistically associated with lower NIHSS at discharge (p=0.04), favorable NIHSS shift (p=0.03), and increased independence rates at discharge (p=0.03) and 3–6-month follow-up (p=0.04).

Conclusion

In patients presenting with minimal stroke symptoms (NIHSS score ≤5) and large vessel occlusion strokes, mechanical thrombectomy appears to be associated with a favorable shift of NIHSS at discharge, as well as higher rates of independence at discharge and long-term follow-up. Confirmatory prospective studies are warranted.
Hydroxytyrosol regulates the autophagy of vascular adventitial fibroblasts through the SIRT1-mediated signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Weirong , Jing Ting , Yang Xiaofeng , He Yanhao , Wang Bo , Xiao Yunfang , Shang Chenxu , Zhang Jiye , Lin Rong
Published: August 2017

Hydroxytyrosol (HT), a phenolic compound in olive oil, exerts an anti-inflammatory effect in cardiovascular diseases. Recent studies found that autophagy was a therapeutic target of diseases. However, the effect of HT on autophagy in vascular adventitial fibroblasts (VAFs) remains unknown. Thus, in this study, we aimed to determine the effect of HT on cell autophagy and related signaling pathway and whether HT regulates the inflammatory response through autophagy in VAFs. Our results showed that HT promoted cell autophagy by increasing the conversion of LC3 and Beclin1 expression and the autophagic flux in VAFs stimulated with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). HT also upregulated the expression of the deacetylase sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) protein and mRNA compared with the TNF-α group. The molecular docking studies showed the good compatibility between HT and SIRT1, indicating that HT might act through SIRT1. Further study found that HT regulated autophagy through SIRT1-mediated Akt/mTOR suppression in VAFs. In addition, HT inhibited TNF-α-induced inflammatory response in VAFs through SIRT1. Furthermore, the study showed that HT inhibited the inflammatory response of VAFs through autophagy. These findings indicate that HT regulates the autophagy of VAFs through SIRT1-mediated Akt/mTOR suppression and then inhibits the inflammatory response of VAFs.
3D Pose Tracking Using a Recovered 3D Model
Authors: Chen Wei , Zhao Yuelong , Chen Shu , Ouyang Jianquan
Published: August 2017

Template warping is a widely used approach in the pose recovery field. Due to its flexibility, template warping is especially useful in monocular video motion tracking. Tracking accuracy is largely determined by the appearance of the 3D model. Moreover, the appearance of the 3D model plays a very important role in template warping. However, accurate tracking results are difficult to obtain because hand estimated 3D models are prone to inaccuracies (the appearance of 3D models is commonly initialized by the user based on the first frame of video footage; the result is a hand estimated 3D model). In order to overcome this problem, we propose an iterative optimization process that estimates the appearance of the 3D model during tracking. Our results show that our proposed 3D model estimation achieves better performance than the hand model initialization estimation.
Derivation of the Local-Mean Stochastic Quantum Force
Authors: Tsekov Roumen , Heifetz Eyal , Cohen Eliahu
Published: August 2017

We regard the non-relativistic Schrödinger equation as an ensemble mean representation of the stochastic motion of a single particle in a vacuum, subject to an undefined stochastic quantum force. The local mean of the quantum force is found to be proportional to the third spatial derivative of the probability density function, while its associated pressure is proportional to the second spatial derivative. The latter arises from the single particle diluted gas pressure, and this observation allows to interpret the quantum Bohm potential as the energy required to put a particle in a bath of fluctuating vacuum at constant entropy and volume.

The stochastic force expectation value is zero and is uncorrelated with the particle location, thus does not perform work on average. Nonetheless, it is anti-correlated with volume and this anti-correlation leads to an uncertainty relation. We analyze the dynamic Gaussian solution to the Schrödinger equation as a simple example for exploring the mean properties of this quantum force. We conclude with a few possible interpretations as to the origins of quantum stochasticity.
What Have We Learned About Movement Disorders from Functional Neurosurgery?
Authors: Lozano Andres M. , Hutchison William D. , Kalia Suneil K.
Published: August 2017

Modern functional neurosurgery for movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease, tremor, and dystonia involves the placement of focal lesions or the application of deep brain stimulation (DBS) within circuits that modulate motor function. Precise targeting of these motor structures can be further refined by the use of electrophysiological approaches. In particular, microelectrode recordings enable the delineation of neuroanatomic structures. In the course of these operations, there is an opportunity not only to map basal ganglia structures but also to gain insights into how disturbances in neural activity produce movement disorders. In this review, we aim to highlight what the field has uncovered thus far about movement disorders through DBS. The work to date lays the foundation for future studies that will shed further light on dysfunctional circuits mediating diseases of the nervous system and how we might modulate these circuits therapeutically.
Effects of multiple simulated birth traumas on urethral continence function in rats
Authors: Yoshikawa Satoru , Sumino Yasuhiro , Kwon Joonbeom , Suzuki Takahisa , Kitta Takeya , Miyazato Minoru , Yoshimura Naoki
Published: August 2017

Multiple vaginal parities have been reported to be an important risk factor for stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Simulated birth trauma with single vaginal distention (VD) has been used to induce the SUI condition in animals; however, the effect of multiple simulated birth traumas on the urethral continence function has not been well characterized. Therefore, we examined the effects of multiple VDs on urethral functions in vivo and the changes in gene expressions of several molecules in the urethra using female SD rats, which were divided into three groups; sham, VD-1 (single VD), and VD-3 groups (3 times of VDs every 2 wk). Two weeks after the final VD, leak point pressure (LPP) and urethral responses during sneezing were evaluated. Also, changes in mRNA levels of urethral molecules were quantified with RT-PCR.　The VD-1 group did not show any change in LPP with only a tendency of decrease in amplitudes of the urethral responses during sneezing (A-URS); however, the VD-3 group showed a significant decrease in LPP and urethral responses such as baseline urethral pressure and A-URS accompanied with SUI episodes during sneezing. Nicotinic receptor subtypes and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 were significantly increased in both VD-1 and VD-3 groups while TNF receptor (TNFR)-1, IL-6, collagens, and matrix metalloproteinases-9 were significantly increased only in the VD-3 group.　These data indicate that rats with multiple simulated birth traumas exhibit profound impairment of the urethral continence function and that these functional changes are associated with those in cytokines, extracellular matrix molecules, and nicotinic receptor subtypes in the urethra.
Preventative effects of a HIF inhibitor, 17-DMAG, on partial bladder outlet obstruction-induced bladder dysfunction
Authors: Iguchi Nao , Dönmez M. İrfan , Malykhina Anna P. , Carrasco Alonso , Wilcox Duncan T.
Published: August 2017

Posterior urethral valves are the most common cause of partial bladder outlet obstruction (PBOO) in the pediatric population. Pathological changes in the bladder developed during PBOO are responsible for long-lasting voiding dysfunction in this population despite early surgical interventions. Increasing evidence showed PBOO induces an upregulation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) and their transcriptional target genes, and they play a role in pathophysiological changes in the obstructed bladders. We hypothesized that blocking HIF pathways can prevent PBOO-induced bladder dysfunction. PBOO was surgically created by ligation of the bladder neck in male C57BL/6J mice for 2 wk. PBOO mice received intraperitoneal injection of either saline or 17-DMAG (alvespimycin, 3 mg/kg) every 48 h starting from day 1 postsurgery. Sham-operated animals received injection of saline on the same schedule as PBOO mice and served as controls. The bladders were harvested after 2 wk, and basal activity and evoked contractility of the detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) were evaluated in vitro. Bladder function was assessed in vivo by void spot assay and cystometry in conscious, unrestrained mice. Results indicated the 17-DMAG treatment preserved DSM contractility and partially prevented the development of detrusor over activity in obstructed bladders. In addition, PBOO caused a significant increase in the frequency of micturition, which was significantly reduced by 17-DMAG treatment. The 17-DMAG treatment improved urodynamic parameters, including increases in the bladder pressure at micturition and nonvoid contractions observed in PBOO mice. These results demonstrate that treatment with 17-DMAG, a HIF inhibitor, significantly alleviated PBOO-induced bladder pathology in vivo.
Dopamine reduces cell surface Na+/H+exchanger-3 protein by decreasing NHE3 exocytosis and cell membrane recycling
Authors: Hu Ming Chang , Bobulescu I. Alexandru , Quiñones Henry , Gisler Serge M. , Moe Orson W.
Published: August 2017

The intrarenal autocrine-paracrine dopamine (DA) system mediates a significant fraction of the natriuresis in response to a salt load. DA inhibits a number of Na+transporters to effect sodium excretion, including the proximal tubule Na+/H+exchanger-3 (NHE3). DA represent a single hormone that regulates NHE3 at multiple levels, including translation, degradation, endocytosis, and protein phosphorylation. Because cell surface NHE3 protein is determined by the balance between exocytotic insertion and endocytotic retrieval, we examined whether DA acutely affects the rate of NHE3 exocytosis in a cell culture model. DA inhibited NHE3 exocytosis at a dose-dependent manner with a half maximal around 10−6M. The DA effect on NHE3 exocytosis was blocked by inhibition of protein kinase A and by brefeldin A, which inhibits endoplasmic reticulum-to-Golgi transport. NHE3 directly interacts with the ε-subunit of coatomer protein based on yeast-two-hybrid and coimmunoprecipitation. Because NHE3 has been shown to be recycled back to the cell membrane after endocytosis, we measured NHE3 recycling using a biochemical reinsertion assay and showed that reinsertion of NHE3 back to the membrane is also inhibited by DA. In conclusion, among the many mechanisms by which DA reduces apical membrane NHE3 and induces proximal tubule natriuresis, one additional mechanism is inhibition of exocytotic insertion and reinsertion of NHE3 in the apical cell surface.
TRPV4 channels contribute to renal myogenic autoregulation in neonatal pigs
Authors: Soni Hitesh , Peixoto-Neves Dieniffer , Matthews Anberitha T. , Adebiyi Adebowale
Published: August 2017

Myogenic response, a phenomenon in which resistance size arteries and arterioles swiftly constrict or dilate in response to an acute elevation or reduction, respectively, in intravascular pressure is a key component of renal autoregulation mechanisms. Although it is well established that the renal system is functionally immature in neonates, mechanisms that regulate neonatal renal blood flow (RBF) remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that members of the transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) channels are molecular components of renal myogenic constriction in newborns. We show that unlike TRPV1–3, TRPV4 channels are predominantly expressed in neonatal pig preglomerular vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Intracellular Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]i) elevation induced by osmotic cell swelling was attenuated by TRPV4, L-type Ca2+, and stretch-activated Ca2+channel blockers but not phospholipase A2inhibitor. Blockade of TRPV4 channels reversed steady-state myogenic tone and inhibited pressure-induced membrane depolarization, [Ca2+]ielevation, and constriction in distal interlobular arteries. A step increase in arterial pressure induced efficient autoregulation of renal cortical perfusion and total RBF in anesthetized and mechanically ventilated neonatal pigs. Moreover, intrarenal arterial infusion of the TRPV4 channel blockers HC 067047 and RN 1734 attenuated renal autoregulation in the pigs. These data suggest that renal myogenic autoregulation is functional in neonates. Our findings also indicate that TRPV4 channels are mechanosensors in neonatal pig preglomerular vascular SMCs and contribute to renal myogenic autoregulation.
Elevated airway liquid volumes at birth: a potential cause of transient tachypnea of the newborn
Authors: McGillick Erin V. , Lee Katie , Yamaoka Shigeo , te Pas Arjan B. , Crossley Kelly J. , Wallace Megan J. , Kitchen Marcus J. , Lewis Robert A. , Kerr Lauren T. , DeKoninck Philip , Dekker Janneke , Thio Marta , McDougall Annie R.A. , Hooper Stuart B.
Published: August 2017

Excessive liquid in airways and/or distal lung tissue may underpin the respiratory morbidity associated with transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN). However, its effects on lung aeration and respiratory function following birth are unknown. We investigated the effect of elevated airway liquid volumes on newborn respiratory function. Near-term rabbit kittens (30 days gestation; term ~32 days) were delivered, had their lung liquid-drained, and either had no liquid replaced (control; n = 7) or 30 ml/kg of liquid re-added to the airways [liquid added (LA); n = 7]. Kittens were mechanically ventilated in a plethysmograph. Measures of chest and lung parameters, uniformity of lung aeration, and airway size were analyzed using phase contrast X-ray imaging. The maximum peak inflation pressure required to recruit a tidal volume of 8 ml/kg was significantly greater in LA compared with control kittens (35.0 ± 0.7 vs. 26.8 ± 0.4 cmH2O, P < 0.001). LA kittens required greater time to achieve lung aeration (106 ± 14 vs. 60 ± 6 inflations, P = 0.03) and had expanded chest walls, as evidenced by an increased total chest area (32 ± 9%, P < 0.0001), lung height (17 ± 6%, P = 0.02), and curvature of the diaphragm (19 ± 8%, P = 0.04). LA kittens had lower functional residual capacity during stepwise changes in positive end-expiratory pressures (5, 3, 0, and 5 cmH20). Elevated lung liquid volumes had marked adverse effects on lung structure and function in the immediate neonatal period and reduced the ability of the lung to aerate efficiently. We speculate that elevated airway liquid volumes may underlie the initial morbidity in near-term babies with TTN after birth.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Transient tachypnea of the newborn reduces respiratory function in newborns and is thought to result due to elevated airway liquid volumes following birth. However, the effect of elevated airway liquid volumes on neonatal respiratory function is unknown. Using phase contrast X-ray imaging, we show that elevated airway liquid volumes have adverse effects on lung structure and function in the immediate newborn period, which may underlie the pathology of TTN in near-term babies after birth.
Acute effects of long-acting bronchodilators on small airways detected in COPD patients by single-breath N2 test and lung P-V curve
Authors: Pecchiari Matteo , Santus Pierachille , Radovanovic Dejan , DʼAngelo Edgardo
Published: August 2017

Small airways represent the key factor of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) pathophysiology. The effect of different classes of bronchodilators on small airways is still poorly understood and difficult to assess. Hence the acute effects of tiotropium (18 µg) and indacaterol (150 µg) on closing volume (CV) and ventilation inhomogeneity were investigated and compared in 51 stable patients (aged 70 ± 7 yr, mean ± SD; 82% men) with moderate to very severe COPD. Patients underwent body plethysmography, arterial blood gas analysis, tidal expiratory flow limitation (EFL), dyspnea assessment, and simultaneous recording of single-breath N2 test and transpulmonary pressure-volume curve (PL-V), before and 1 h after drug administration. The effects produced by indacaterol on each variable did not differ from those caused by tiotropium, independent of the severity of disease, assessed according to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (GOLD) scale and the presence of EFL. Bronchodilators significantly decreased the slope of phase III and CV (−5 ± 4 and −2.5 ± 2.1%, respectively, both P < 0.001), with an increase in both slope and height of phase IV and of the anatomical dead space. Arterial oxygen pressure and saturation significantly improved (3 ± 3 mmHg and 2 ± 2%, respectively, both P < 0.001); their changes negatively correlated with those of phase III slope ( r = −0.659 and r = −0.454, respectively, both P < 0.01). The vital capacity (VC) increased substantially, but the PL-V/VC curve above CV was unaffected. In conclusion, bronchodilators reduce the heterogeneity of peripheral airway mechanical properties and the extent of their closure, with minor effects on critical closing pressure. This should lessen the risk of small-airway damage and positively affect gas exchange.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This is the first study investigating in stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients the acute effects of two long-acting bronchodilators, a β-agonist and a muscarinic antagonist, on peripheral airways using simultaneous lung pressure-volume curve and single-breath N2 test. By lessening airway mechanical property heterogeneity, both drugs similarly reduced ventilation inhomogeneity and extent of small-airway closure, as indicated by the decrease of phase III slope, increased oxygen saturation, and fall of closing volume, often below expiratory reserve volume.
Influence of pain on motor preparation in the human brain
Authors: Postorino Martina , May Elisabeth S. , Nickel Moritz M. , Tiemann Laura , Ploner Markus
Published: August 2017

The protective function of pain depends on appropriate motor responses to avoid injury and promote recovery. The preparation and execution of motor responses is thus an essential part of pain. However, it is not yet fully understood how pain and motor processes interact in the brain. Here we used electroencephalography to investigate the effects of pain on motor preparation in the human brain. Twenty healthy human participants performed a motor task in which they performed button presses to stop increasingly painful thermal stimuli when they became intolerable. In another condition, participants performed button presses without concurrent stimulation. The results show that the amplitudes of preparatory event-related desynchronizations at alpha and beta frequencies did not differ between conditions. In contrast, the amplitude of the preparatory readiness potential was reduced when a button press was performed to stop a painful stimulus compared with a button press without concomitant pain. A control experiment with nonpainful thermal stimuli showed a similar reduction of the readiness potential when a button press was performed to stop a nonpainful thermal stimulus. Together, these findings indicate that painful and nonpainful thermal stimuli can similarly influence motor preparation in the human brain. Pain-specific effects on motor preparation in the human brain remain to be demonstrated.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Pain is inherently linked to motor processes, but the interactions between pain and motor processes in the human brain are not yet fully understood. Using electroencephalography, we show that pain reduces movement-preparatory brain activity. Further results indicate that this effect is not pain specific but independent of the modality of stimulation.
Oxidative Stress in Pancreatic Beta Cell Regeneration
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Wang Hongjun
Published: August 2017

Pancreatic β cell neogenesis and proliferation during the neonatal period are critical for the generation of sufficient pancreatic β cell mass/reserve and have a profound impact on long‐term protection against type 2 diabetes (T2D). Oxidative stress plays an important role in β cell neogenesis, proliferation, and survival under both physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Pancreatic β cells are extremely susceptible to oxidative stress due to a high endogenous production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and a low expression of antioxidative enzymes. In this review, we summarize studies describing the critical roles and the mechanisms of how oxidative stress impacts β cell neogenesis and proliferation. In addition, the effects of antioxidant supplements on reduction of oxidative stress and increase of β cell proliferation are discussed. Exploring the roles and the potential therapeutic effects of antioxidants in the process of β cell regeneration would provide novel perspectives to preserve and/or expand pancreatic β cell mass for the treatment of T2D.
Determination of Optimum Conditions for the Production of Activated Carbon Derived from Separate Varieties of Coconut Shells
Authors: Sanni E. S. , Emetere M. E. , Odigure J. O. , Efeovbokhan V. E. , Agboola O. , Sadiku E. R.
Published: August 2017

Activated carbons were produced from coconut shells of tall and dwarf tree varieties. The activated carbon from the tall tree variety was initially synthesized using 1 M concentration of each of ZnCl2, H3PO4, and KOH solutions. From the adsorptive tests conducted using methylene blue solution, the activated carbon produced with H3PO4gave the best absorbance and adsorptive performance. Coconut shells of dwarf tree variety were then obtained and treated with same mass of coconut shells of the tall tree variety using varied concentrations of the acid in order to determine whether the optimum concentration and temperature for producing carbon black from the coconut shells are distinct or similar for both varieties. The process was also modelled using the Differential Response Method (DRM) in order to determine the yields and adsorptive performances of the activated carbons by varying the carbonization temperature and concentration. The results from experiment and the developed mathematical model were both found to be in agreement giving the optimum concentration of phosphoric acid and pH for producing activated carbon to be 0.67 M and 2.07 for the tall tree variety and 1 M and 1.98 for the dwarf variety at optimum temperatures in the range of 450–575°C and 575°C, respectively.
Calcium Phosphate Product Is Associated with Subclinical Carotid Atherosclerosis in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ramírez-Morros Anna , Granado-Casas Minerva , Alcubierre Nuria , Martinez-Alonso Montserrat , Real Jordi , Castelblanco Esmeralda , Esquerda Aureli , Cao Gonzalo , Rubinat Esther , Hernández Marta , Alonso Núria , Fernández Elvira , Mauricio Didac
Published: August 2017

Aims. To assess whether circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D3(25OHD) and mineral metabolism-related factors (serum phosphate, calcium, and parathormone) are associated with subclinical carotid atherosclerosis (SCA), defined as the presence of carotid atherosclerotic plaques (main study outcome), in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) without kidney disease or previous cardiovascular disease.Methods.We undertook a post hoc analysis of a cross-sectional study in adults with T2DM in whom we evaluated SCA. A total of 303 subjects with T2DM were included. Clinical variables and carotid ultrasound imaging were obtained.Results. We found no association of 25OHD with the presence of SCA. However, calcium phosphate (CaP; mg2/dL2) product was positively associated with the presence of carotid plaques (ORadj = 1.078; 95% CI: 1.017–1.142). An inverse association was observed between higher levels of 25OHD (≥30 ng/mL versus <20 ng/mL concentrations) and common carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT; mm) (βadj ± SE = −0.055 ± 0.024). We conclude that the CaP product is independently associated with the presence of established subclinical carotid atherosclerosis in patients with T2DM.
Revascularization in Immature Permanent Teeth with Necrotic Pulp and Apical Pathology: Case Series
Authors: Carmen López , Asunción Mendoza , Beatriz Solano , Rosa Yáñez-Vico
Published: August 2017

Introduction. To present and discuss the results of five clinical cases treated using the revascularization protocol, showing clinical and radiographic monitoring. Necrotic immature teeth with periapical pathology present a challenge to dentists because the techniques used in apexification leave the tooth susceptible to fracture, since the root does not continue to grow in length and the canal walls are thin. Revascularization has emerged as an alternative to resolve these deficiencies, enabling apical closure, continued development of the roots, and thickening of the dentinal walls. Case Series. Five clinically and radiographically diagnosed necrotic immature permanent teeth were treated using revascularization treatment. The therapeutic protocol involved accessing the pulp chamber; irrigating copiously with NaOCl; applying a triple antibiotic paste as intracanal dressing; then provisionally sealing it. After 3 weeks, the canal was cleaned and the apex irritated with a size 15 K-file to induce blood that would serve as a scaffold for pulp revascularization. MTA was used to seal the chamber before final obturation (composite or metallic crown). Conclusion. The discussion of the results leads to debate about different restorative materials and other published protocols.
Etherification of Glycerol with Propylene or 1-Butene for Fuel Additives
Authors: Saengarun Chakrapong , Petsom Amorn , Tungasmita Duangamol Nuntasri
Published: August 2017

The etherification of glycerol with propylene over acidic heterogeneous catalysts, Amberlyst-15, S100, and S200 resins, produced mono-propyl glycerol ethers (MPGEs), 1,3-di- and 1,2-di-propyl glycerol ethers (DPGEs), and tri-propyl glycerol ether (TPGE). The propylation of glycerol over Amberlyst-15 yielded only TPGE. The glycerol etherification with 1-butene over Amberlyst-15 and S200 resins produced 1-mono-, 2-mono-, 1,2-di-, and 1,3-di-butyl glycerol ethers (1-MBGE, 2-MBGE, 1,2-DBGE, and 1,3-DBGE). The use of Amberlyst-15 resulted in the propylation and butylation of glycerol with higher yields than those obtained from the S100 and S200 resins. The PGEs, TPGE, and BGEs were evaluated as cold flow improvers and octane boosters. These alkyl glycerol ethers can reduce the cloud point of blended palm biodiesels with diesel. They can increase the research octane number and the motor octane number of gasoline.
Numerical Investigation into the Impact of CO2-Water-Rock Interactions on CO2 Injectivity at the Shenhua CCS Demonstration Project, China
Authors: Yang Guodong , Li Yilian , Atrens Aleks , Yu Ying , Wang Yongsheng
Published: August 2017

A 100,000 t/year demonstration project for carbon dioxide (CO2) capture and storage in the deep saline formations of the Ordos Basin, China, has been successfully completed. Field observations suggested that the injectivity increased nearly tenfold after CO2 injection commenced without substantial pressure build-up. In order to evaluate whether this unique phenomenon could be attributed to geochemical changes, reactive transport modeling was conducted to investigate CO2-water-rock interactions and changes in porosity and permeability induced by CO2 injection. The results indicated that using porosity-permeability relationships that include tortuosity, grain size, and percolation porosity, other than typical Kozeny-Carman porosity-permeability relationship, it is possible to explain the considerable injectivity increase as a consequence of mineral dissolution. These models might be justified in terms of selective dissolution along flow paths and by dissolution or migration of plugging fines. In terms of geochemical changes, dolomite dissolution is the largest source of porosity increase. Formation physical properties such as temperature, pressure, and brine salinity were found to have modest effects on mineral dissolution and precipitation. Results from this study could have practical implications for a successful CO2 injection and enhanced oil/gas/geothermal production in low-permeability formations, potentially providing a new basis for screening of storage sites and reservoirs.
Rs46522 in the Ubiquitin-Conjugating Enzyme E2Z Gene Is Associated with the Risk of Coronary Artery Disease in Individuals of Chinese Han Population with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Lu Difei , Huang Jia , Ma Xiaowei , Gu Nan , Zhang Junqing , Zhang Hong , Guo Xiaohui
Published: August 2017

Aims. We investigated the association between ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2Z (UBE2Z) gene SNP rs46522 and the risk of CAD in a Chinese Han population with type 2 diabetes and explored a possible interactive effect with environmental risk factors of CAD. Methods. 665 patients with T2D were enrolled; 390 were CAD patients and 275 were non-CAD patients. Genotype analysis of rs46522 (T>C) was performed using PCR-RFLP. Results. The SNP rs47522 was associated with the risk of CAD supposing recessive inheritance model (TT versus CC+CT, OR′=1.277, 95%CI′ 1.039–1.570, p′=0.020) and codominant model (TT versus CT, OR′=1.673, 95%CI′ 1.088–2.570, p′=0.019) after adjustment for confounders of CAD. A synergistic effect of rs46522 and BMI was discovered (β=0.012, p for interreaction = 0.028). In subgroup analysis, minor allele T was significantly associated with CAD in overweight and obesity subgroup (p=0.034), and the association was also proved in recessive model (OR=1.537, 95%CI 1.075–2.196, p=0.018). Smokers with genotype TT had threefold risk of CAD in comparison to nonsmokers with genotype TC or CC (p<0.001). Conclusions. The SNP rs46522 in UBE2Z gene is associated with the risk of CAD in the individuals of Chinese Han descent with type 2 diabetes and is of synergistic effect with BMI.
Socioeconomic Drivers of Environmental Pollution in China: A Spatial Econometric Analysis
Authors: Liu Jianmin , Chen Xia , Wei Runchu
Published: August 2017

This paper studies the environmental pollution and its impacts in China using prefecture-level cities and municipalities data. Moran’sI, the widely used spatial autocorrelation index, provides a fairly strong pattern of spatial clustering of environmental pollution and suggests a fairly high stability of the positive spatial correlation. To investigate the driving forces of environmental pollution and explore the relationship between fiscal decentralization, economic growth, and environmental pollution, spatial Durbin model is used for this analysis. The result shows that fiscal decentralization of local unit plays a significant role in promoting the environmental pollution and the feedback effect of fiscal decentralization on environmental pollution is also positive, though it is not significant. The relationship of GDP per capita and environmental pollution shows inverted U-shaped curve. Due to the scale effect of secondary industry, the higher the level of secondary industry development in a unit is, the easier it is to attract the secondary industry in adjacent units, which mitigates the environmental pollution in adjacent units. Densely populated areas tend to deteriorate local environment, but environmental regulation in densely populated areas is often tighter than other areas, which reduces environmental pollution to a certain extent.
Vibration Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Simply Supported Beam versus Variation Temperature
Authors: Liu Hanbing , Wang Hua , Tan Guojin , Liu Ziyu , Cheng Yongchun
Published: August 2017

It is well known that temperature has great influence on modal characteristics of bridges. The relationship between them has been studied by using statistical mathematics, numerical analysis, and field’s monitoring methods, which have relatively narrow applicability. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze their relationship theoretically. In this paper, the relationship between temperature and modal characteristics of the simply supported beam is investigated based on theoretical calculation method. Firstly, the temperature field is analyzed to find out the main factors that lead to the changes of modal characteristics. Secondly, the dynamic equations of simply supported beam under the effect of temperature are established. Next, a test beam is constructed to validate the proposed calculation method experimentally. The calculated results are in good agreement with those from the experiment. Finally, the proposed method is successfully applied to real engineering.
Online Traffic Condition Evaluation Method for Connected Vehicles Based on Multisource Data Fusion
Authors: Wang Pang-wei , Yu Hong-bin , Xiao Lin , Wang Li
Published: August 2017

With the development of connected vehicle (CV) and Vehicle to X (V2X) communication, more traffic data is being collected from the road network. In order to predict future traffic condition from connected vehicles’ data in real-time, we present an online traffic condition evaluation model utilizing V2X communication. This model employs the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the multilevel fuzzy set theory to fuse multiple sources of information for prediction. First, the contemporary vehicle data from the On Board Diagnostic (OBD) is fused with the static road data in the Road Side Unit (RSU). Then, the real-time traffic evaluation scores are calculated using the variable membership model. The real data collected by OBU in field test demonstrates the feasibility of the evaluation model. Compared with traditional evaluation systems, the proposed model can handle more types of data but demands less data transfer.
Comparative Analysis between LDR and HDR Images for Automatic Fruit Recognition and Counting
Authors: Pinho Tatiana M. , Coelho João Paulo , Oliveira Josenalde , Boaventura-Cunha José
Published: August 2017

Precision agriculture is gaining an increasing interest in the current farming paradigm. This new production concept relies on the use of information technology (IT) to provide a control and supervising structure that can lead to better management policies. In this framework, imaging techniques that provide visual information over the farming area play an important role in production status monitoring. As such, accurate representation of the gathered production images is a major concern, especially if those images are used in detection and classification tasks. Real scenes, observed in natural environment, present high dynamic ranges that cannot be represented by the common LDR (Low Dynamic Range) devices. However, this issue can be handled by High Dynamic Range (HDR) images since they have the ability to store luminance information similarly to the human visual system. In order to prove their advantage in image processing, a comparative analysis between LDR and HDR images, for fruits detection and counting, was carried out. The obtained results show that the use of HDR images improves the detection performance to more than 30% when compared to LDR.
Influence of Friction Stir Welding on Mechanical Properties of Butt Joints of AZ61 Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Sun Seung-Ju , Kim Jung-Seok , Lee Woo Geun , Lim Jae-Yong , Go Yohan , Kim Young Min
Published: August 2017

In this study, the effect of heat input on the mechanical properties and fracture behaviors of AZ61 magnesium alloy joints has been studied. Magnesium alloy AZ61 plates with thickness of 5 mm were welded at different ratios of tool rotational speed to welding speed (ω/ν). The average ultimate tensile strength of all weld conditions satisfying a ω/ν ratio of 3 reached 100% of the strength of the base material. Fractures occurred at the interface between the thermomechanical affected zone at advancing side and the stir zone in all welded specimens. From the scanning electron microscope and electron backscatter diffraction analysis, it was determined that the interface between the thermomechanical affected zone and the stir zone, which is the region where the grain orientation changes, was the weakest part; the advancing side region was relatively weaker than the retreating side region because the grain orientation change occurred more dramatically in the advancing side region.
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Reduce Progression of Experimental Chronic Kidney Disease but Develop Wilms’ Tumors
Authors: Caldas Heloisa Cristina , Lojudice Fernando Henrique , Dias Cinthia , Fernandes-Charpiot Ida Maria Maximina , Baptista Maria Alice Sperto Ferreira , Kawasaki-Oyama Rosa Sayoko , Sogayar Mari Cleide , Takiya Christina Maeda , Abbud-Filho Mario
Published: August 2017

The therapeutic effect of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSs) on the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has not yet been demonstrated. In this study, we sought to assess whether treatment with iPSs retards progression of CKD when compared with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Untreated 5/6 nephrectomized rats were compared with CKD animals receiving BMSCs or iPSs. Renal function, histology, immunohistochemistry, and gene expression were studied. Implanted iPSs were tracked by the SRY gene expression analysis. Both treatments minimized elevation in serum creatinine, significantly improved clearance, and slowed down progression of disease. The proteinuria was reduced only in the iPS group. Both treatments reduced glomerulosclerosis, iPSs decreased macrophage infiltration, and TGF-βwas reduced in kidneys from the BMSC group. Both types of treatments increased VEGF gene expression, TGF-βwas upregulated only in the iPS group, and IL-10 had low expression in both groups. The SRY gene was found in 5/8 rats treated with iPSs. These 5 animals presented tumors with histology and cells highly staining positive for PCNA and Wilms’ tumor protein antibody characteristics of Wilms’ tumor. These results suggest that iPSs may be efficient to retard progression of CKD but carry the risk of Wilms’ tumor development.
The Correlation between FSTL1 Expression and Airway Remodeling in Asthmatics
Authors: Liu Yahui , Liu Tian , Wu Jinxiang , Li Tao , Jiao Xingai , Zhang Haiqing , Zhao Jiping , Wang Junfei , Liu Lin , Cao Liuzhao , Li Shuo , Xu Jiawei , Xu Jianfeng , Ma Xiaohui , Yang Lei , Dong Liang
Published: August 2017

Background. Asthma is characterized by airway remodeling. Follistatin-like protein 1 (FSTL1) is an extracellular glycoprotein. Recent studies suggest that FSTL1 may participate in the pathogenesis of asthma. Objectives. To analyze the association between FSTL1 and some parameters and inspect the role of FSTL1 in asthma. Methods. We examined FSTL1 levels in 32 asthmatics and 25 controls. All subjects enrolled had routine blood tests, spirometry, and impulse oscillometry performed. Additionally, 15 of the 32 asthmatics underwent fibre optic bronchoscopy. Spearman rank analysis was performed to detect the correlation between FSTL1 and other parameters. Results. Plasma FSTL1 levels were higher in asthmatics (130.762 ± 46.029 ng/mL) than in controls (95.408 ± 33.938 ng/mL) (p=0.009). Plasma FSTL1 levels were associated with fibrosis levels around the airways (rs=0.529, p=0.043) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) (rs=0.554, p=0.032). FSTL1 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were associated with collagen I (rs=0.536, p=0.040), α-SMA (rs=0.561, p=0.029), fibrosis levels (rs=0.779, p=0.001), and the thickness of the airway reticular basement membrane (RBM) (rs=0.660, p=0.007). Conclusions. FSTL1 levels in asthmatics were linked with increased smooth muscle mass and thickened RBM. FSTL1 may contribute to airway remodeling in asthmatics.
Predictors of Hypertension in a Population of Undergraduate Students in Sierra Leone
Authors: Lebbie Aiah , Wadsworth Richard , Saidu Janette , Bangura Camilla
Published: August 2017

We report on the first survey of hypertension in undergraduates in Sierra Leone. Levels of hypertension (12%) and obesity (4%) appear low compared to the general population but given the rapid increase of both and the expectation that many graduates will enter the formal employment sector and a sedentary lifestyle, there is still cause for concern. We measured their BMI (body mass index) and used a questionnaire to investigate demographic and lifestyle choices. In agreement with most authorities, we found that BMI and age were statistically significant predictors of systolic and diastolic blood pressure but that the explanatory power was low (r=0.21 to 0.27). Men may be more sensitive than women to an increase in BMI on blood pressure (p<0.1). We failed to find statistically significant relationships with ethnicity, religion, stress, course of study, levels of physical activity, diet, smoking, or consumption of caffeine and alcohol. Family history of hypertension, consumption of red palm oil, and self-diagnosed attacks of typhoid fever were close to conventional levels of significance (p<0.1). We intend to use this as a baseline for longitudinal studies to assess risks and suggest appropriate public health action.
A Smart Telecare System at Digital Home: Perceived Usefulness, Satisfaction, and Expectations for Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Vadillo Laura , Martín-Ruiz María Luisa , Pau Iván , Conde Rafael , Valero Miguel Ángel
Published: August 2017

Sensors, combined with intelligent systems, can enhance the quality of the Telecare services deployed at home, improving the capability for detection of risk situations and the users care. However, there are no specific studies that evaluate this kind of Telecare systems by professionals that work in a Telecare center. This paper shows the results of an assessment of the current satisfaction and future expectations of the Telecare professionals when using advanced Telecare solutions deployed at home. The study has been conducted through structured interviews with 24 Telecare experts working in the Telecare center of the Spanish Red Cross for attending alarm calls for elderly people. The interviews had the support of the TALISMAN Telecare system that is a next-generation Telecare service deployed in the accessible digital home of Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. All participants showed overall satisfaction with TALISMAN and their intention to use it. Results showed that perceived usefulness is an important influencing factor to the intention to use it and the Quality of the Information is a key factor in the perceived usefulness. TALISMAN, as an example of a next-generation Telecare system, is seen as a tool with high potential for improving the care of elderly people at home.