bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Guiding Curriculum Development: Student Perceptions for the Second Language Learning in Technology-Enhanced Learning Environments
Authors: Gürleyik Sinan , Akdemir Elif
Published: March 2018

Developing curriculum to enhance student learning is the primer purpose of all curricular activities. Availability of recent tools supporting to teach various skills including reading, listening, speaking and writing has opened a new avenue for curricular activities in technology-enhanced learning environments. Understanding the perceptions of students utilizing technology-enhanced learning environments to learn second language skills is important to develop the curriculum. This study is organized to investigate the perceptions of students towards second language learning in technology-enhanced learning environments in which students can develop reading, listening, speaking and writing skills for the second language learning. The survey was used to collect data from 875 undergraduate students involved in technology-enhanced second language learning environments in a university. Contrary to general expectations, results of the study indicated that technology-enhanced learning environments do not positively influence the perceptions of undergraduate students for the second language learning. Further research should concentrate on investigating the reasons behind these findings using qualitative studies.
A Study Investigating the Perceived Service Quality Levels of Sport Center Members: A Kano Model Perspective
Authors: Yıldız Kadir , Polat Ercan , Güzel Pınar
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study is to investigate sport center members' perceived service quality levels with a view to Kano customer expectations and requirements model. To that end, a descriptive approach and a correlational research design featuring survey method is adopted. Research group consists of 680 (300 women, 380 men) sport center members who are chosed through multistage sampling (Cluster). “Sport Fitness Centers Perceived Service Quality Scale and Expectation Scale are used as data collection tools. Independent samples t-test, Pearson Correlation analysis and Multiple Linear Regression tests are used to analyzed the data. In the light of the findings, it is seen that all the subdimensions have medium or high level positive significant relationships with the expectation when the subdimensions of the expectation scale and the SFC-PSQS are compared.According to the results of the Independent Samples T-test, the expectation levels of the customers stating that the programme fee is expensive are significantly lower. In conclusion, as the customers’ perception of service quality in the sport center increases, their expectation levels also generally increase significantly. The customers expect that the quality of service they receive to be high and to meet their expectations exceedingly. However, it is also predicted that physical and psychosocial factors affecting the expectation can also affect the perception of service quality at a significant level. Since the service quality and meeting the expectations of the customers is an important indicator to maintain the businesses’ existence, studying with multiple factors attempting to understand the nature of service quality and the customer expectations should be conducted.
Exploring Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction and Delirium in Noncardiac Surgery Using MRI: A Systematic Review
Authors: Huang Chenxi , Mårtensson Johan , Gögenur Ismail , Asghar Mohammad Sohail
Published: March 2018

Surgical patients are at high risk of developing postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) and postoperative delirium (POD). POCD and POD are associated with increased morbidity and mortality and worsening functional outcomes leading to severe socioeconomic consequences for the patient and the society in general. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers a unique opportunity to study the anatomy and function of the brain. MRI thus plays an important role in elucidating the neuronal component of POCD and POD. Our aim has been to systematically gather MRI findings that are related to POCD and POD. Systematic searches were conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, and PsycINFO: MRI studies investigating patients with POCD as identified by perioperative cognitive testing or patients with delirium identified postoperatively by the Confusion Assessment Method. A total of ten eligible papers were included with a total of 269 surgical patients, 36 patient controls, and 55 healthy controls who all underwent MRI examination. These studies suggested that reduction of thalamic and hippocampal volumes and reduction of cerebral blood flow may be associated with POCD, while presurgery/preexisting and postoperative white matter pathology may be associated with POD. However, the evidence from these studies is rather weak. Future MRI studies are warranted to verify the current findings.
Donation after Circulatory Death in Paediatric Liver Transplantation: Current Status and Future Perspectives in the Machine Perfusion Era
Authors: Angelico Roberta , Perera M. Thamara P. R. , Manzia Tommaso Maria , Parente Alessandro , Grimaldi Chiara , Spada Marco
Published: March 2018

Efforts have been made by the transplant community to expand the deceased donor pool in paediatric liver transplantation (LT). The growing experience on donation after circulatory death (DCD) for adult LT has encouraged its use also in children, albeit in selective cases, opening new perspectives for paediatric patients. Even though there has recently been a slight increase in the number of DCD livers transplanted in children, with satisfactory graft and patient outcomes, the use of DCD grafts in paediatric recipients is still controversial due to morbid outcomes associated with DCD grafts. In this context, recent advances in the optimization of donor support by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and in the graft preservation by liver machine perfusion could find application in order to expand the donor pool in paediatric LT. In the present study we review the current literature on DCD liver grafts transplanted in children and on the use of extracorporeal donor support and liver perfusion machines in paediatrics, with the aim of defining the current status and future perspectives of paediatric LT.
Experimental Research on Destruction Mode and Anchoring Performance of Carbon Fiber Phyllostachys pubescens Anchor Rod with Different Forms
Authors: Yulan Wang , Zhao Dong , Lu Wei , Fan Lei
Published: March 2018

The anchoring technology is extensively applied in reinforcing protection of the earth relics. Now that no specification is available for different new anchor rods in earth relics protection due to diversified destruction modes of earth relics and complexity of engineering technology conditions, it is urgent to guide reinforcing design and construction with a complete detailed anchor rod research document. With the new carbon fiber Phyllostachys pubescens anchor rod as the research object, six lots of in situ tests are designed to, respectively, study the destruction mode and anchoring performance of the carbon fiber Phyllostachys pubescens anchor rod under different anchor length L, anchor rod diameter D, bore diameter H, grouting material S, rib spacing R, and inclination angle A in this paper. By studying load shift curve experiment in drawing of the anchor rod, the destruction mode and ultimate bearing capacity of the carbon fiber Phyllostachys pubescens anchor rod in different experiment lots are obtained, and the concept of permitted application value N in anchor rod design is proposed. By studying strain distribution characteristics of anchor rods in experimental lots along the length direction under action of the permitted application value N and combining the existing destruction mode and ultimate bearing capacity, this paper analyzes influences of L, D, H, S, R, and A on anchoring effect of the carbon fiber Phyllostachys pubescens anchor rod; gives the reasonable value range of L, D, H, and R when the carbon fiber Phyllostachys pubescens anchor rod is used for reinforcing design of the earth relics; and provides favorable experiment basis for reinforcing design of the earth relics based on the carbon fiber Phyllostachys pubescens anchor rod.
Vitamin D and Incidence of Prediabetes or Type 2 Diabetes: A Four-Year Follow-Up Community-Based Study
Authors: Gao Yun , Zheng Tianpeng , Ran Xingwu , Ren Yan , Chen Tao , Zhong Li , Yan Donge , Yan Fangfang , Wu Qianlin , Tian Haoming
Published: March 2018

Aim. To examine whether the baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] level was predictive of the onset of prediabetes or type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in the Chinese population. Methods. This was a 4-year follow-up study that was conducted in the Chengdu region of China as part of the China National Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders Study. The study included 490 participants that were free of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) at baseline and had complete data by follow-up examinations. Glucose, insulin, and 25(OH)D levels were measured at baseline and at 4 years later. Prediabetes and T2DM were defined by results obtained from an oral glucose tolerance test. Results. Over a 4-year follow-up, 95 (48.5‰) developed prediabetes and 31 (15.8‰) individuals developed diabetes. Low 25(OH)D status was significantly associated with the risk of developing prediabetes [OR 3.01 (95% CI: 1.50–6.06), P=0.002] and T2DM [OR 5.61 (95% CI: 1.73–18.27), P=0.004] after adjustment for multiple potential confounders. In a multiple linear regression analysis, low baseline levels of 25(OH)D were an independent predictor of increased insulin resistance over a 4-year period (P<0.05). Conclusions. The current prospective study suggests that low 25(OH)D levels might have contributed to the incidence of prediabetes or T2DM in Chinese individuals. This trial is registered with TR-CCH-ChiCTR-OCS-09000361.
Multiple Criteria Decision Making Approach with Multivalued Neutrosophic Linguistic Normalized Weighted Bonferroni Mean Hamacher Operator
Authors: Li Bao-lin , Wang Juan-ru , Yang Li-hua , Li Xue-tao
Published: March 2018

The neutrosophic set and linguistic term set are widely applied in recent years. Motivated by the advantages of them, we combine the multivalued neutrosophic set and linguistic set and define the concept of the multivalued neutrosophic linguistic set (MVNLS). Furthermore, Hamacher operation is an extension of the algebraic and Einstein operation. Additionally, the normalized weighted Bonferroni mean (NWBM) operator can consider the weight of each argument and capture the interrelationship of different arguments. Therefore, the combination of NWBM operator and Hamacher operation is more valuable and agile. Firstly, MVNLS and multivalued neutrosophic linguistic number (MVNLN) are defined, then some new operational rules of MVNLNs on account of Hamacher operations are developed, and the comparison functions for MVNLNs are given. Secondly, multivalued neutrosophic linguistic normalized weighted Bonferroni mean Hamacher operator (MVNLNWBMH) is proposed, and a number of expected characteristics of new operator are investigated. Meanwhile, some special cases of different parametersp,q, andεare analyzed. Thirdly, the approach utilizing the MVNLNWBMH operator is introduced to manage multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) issue in multivalued neutrosophic linguistic environment. Ultimately, a practical example is presented and a comparative analysis is carried out, which validate the effectiveness and generalization of the novel approach.
Herbal Medicine for Oligomenorrhea and Amenorrhea: A Systematic Review of Ancient and Conventional Medicine
Authors: Moini Jazani Arezoo , Hamdi Kobra , Tansaz Mojgan , Nazemiyeh Hossein , Sadeghi Bazargani Homayoun , Fazljou Seyed Mohammad Bagher , Nasimi Doost Azgomi Ramin
Published: March 2018

Introduction. Menstrual bleeding cessation is one of the most frequent gynecologic disorders among women in reproductive age. The treatment is based on hormone therapy. Due to the increasing request for alternative medicine remedies in the field of women’s diseases, in present study, it was tried to overview medicinal plants used to treat oligomenorrhea and amenorrhea according to the pharmaceutical textbooks of traditional Persian medicine (TPM) and review the evidence in the conventional medicine. Methods. This systematic review was designed and performed in 2017 in order to gather information regarding herbal medications of oligomenorrhea and amenorrhea in TPM and conventional medicine. This study had several steps as searching Iranian traditional medicine literature and extracting the emmenagogue plants, classifying the plants, searching the electronic databases, and finding evidences. To search traditional Persian medicine references, Noor digital library was used, which includes several ancient traditional medical references. The classification of plants was done based on the repetition and potency of the plants in the ancient literatures. The required data was gathered using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, and web of knowledge. Results. In present study of all 198 emmenagogue medicinal plants found in TPM, 87 cases were specified to be more effective in treating oligomenorrhea and amenorrhea. In second part of present study, where a search of conventional medicine was performed, 12 studies were found, which had 8 plants investigated: Vitex agnus-castus, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Foeniculum vulgare, Cinnamomum verum, Paeonia lactiflora, Sesamum indicum, Mentha longifolia, and Urtica dioica. Conclusion. Traditional Persian medicine has proposed many different medicinal plants for treatment of oligomenorrhea and amenorrhea. Although just few plants have been proven to be effective for treatment of menstrual irregularities, the results and the classification in present study can be used as an outline for future studies and treatment.
A New Equivalent Statistical Damage Constitutive Model on Rock Block Mixed Up with Fluid Inclusions
Authors: Chen Xiao , Xu Hongfa , Geng Hansheng , Dong Lu , Zhang Jixiang
Published: March 2018

So far, there are few studies concerning the effect of closed “fluid inclusions” on the macroscopic constitutive relation of deep rock. Fluid-matrix element (FME) is defined based on rock element in statistical damage model. The properties of FME are related to the size of inclusions, fluid properties, and pore pressure. Using FME, the equivalent elastic modulus of rock block containing fluid inclusions is obtained with Eshelby inclusion theory and the double M-T homogenization method. The new statistical damage model of rock is established on the equivalent elastic modulus. Besides, the porosity and confining pressure are important influencing factors of the model. The model reflects the initial damage (void and fluid inclusion) and the macroscopic deformation law of rock, which is an improvement of the traditional statistical damage model. Additionally, the model can not only be consistent with the rock damage experiment date and three-axis compression experiment date of rock containing pore water but also describe the locked-in stress experiment in rock-like material. It is a new fundamental study of the constitutive relation of locked-in stress in deep rock mass.
Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Therapy for Pancreatitis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ahmed Sara M. , Morsi Mahmoud , Ghoneim Nehal I. , Abdel-Daim Mohamed M. , El-Badri Nagwa
Published: March 2018

Background. Based on animal studies, adult mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are promising for the treatment of pancreatitis. However, the best type of this form of cell therapy and its mechanism of action remain unclear. Methods. We searched the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Clinical Trials.gov websites for studies using MSCs as a therapy for both acute and chronic pancreatitis published until September 2017. Results. We identified 276 publications; of these publications, 18 met our inclusion criteria. In animal studies, stem cell therapy was applied more frequently for acute pancreatitis than for chronic pancreatitis. No clinical trials were identified. MSC therapy ameliorated pancreatic inflammation in acute pancreatitis and pancreatic fibrosis in chronic pancreatitis. Bone marrow and umbilical cord MSCs were the most frequently administered cell types. Due to the substantial heterogeneity among the studies regarding the type, source, and dose of MSCs used, conducting a meta‐analysis was not feasible to determine the best type of MSCs. Conclusion. The available data were insufficient for determining the best type of MSCs for the treatment of acute or chronic pancreatitis; therefore, clinical trials investigating the use of MSCs as therapy for pancreatitis are not warranted.
Graphene Synthesis Using a CVD Reactor and a Discontinuous Feed of Gas Precursor at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Moreno-Bárcenas A. , Perez-Robles J. F. , Vorobiev Y. V. , Ornelas-Soto N. , Mexicano A. , García A. G.
Published: March 2018

The present work shows a new method in order to cost-effectively achieve the synthesis of graphene by Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Unlike most usual processes, where precursors such as argon, H2, CH4, and high purity copper foil are used, the proposed method has replaced the previous ones by N2, N2 (90%) : H2 (10%), C2H2, and electrolytic copper (technical grade) since the use of industrialized precursors helps reduce production costs. On the other hand, the process was modified from a continuous flow system with vacuum to a discontinuous one at atmospheric pressure, eliminating the use of vacuum pump. In addition, this modification optimized the consumption of gases, which reduced the waste and the emission of pollutant gases into the atmosphere. Graphene films were grown under different gas flowrates and temperatures. Then, the obtained material was characterized by TEM, Raman spectroscopy, and AFM, confirming the presence of few graphene layers. In brief, the growth time was reduced to six minutes with acetylene as a carbon precursor at 1000°C and at atmospheric pressure, with a flow rate of 30 sccm. Finally, the reported conditions can be used for the synthesis of good quality graphene films in industrial applications.
Clinical and Pathological Characteristics of Autoimmune Hepatitis with Acute Presentation
Authors: Shen Yi , Lu Changli , Men Ruoting , Liu Jianping , Ye Tinghong , Yang Li
Published: March 2018

Aim. To study the differences between acute presentation-autoimmune hepatitis (A-AIH) and chronic autoimmune hepatitis (C-AIH). Methods. Through long-term follow-up, 80 patients were included in our study by using the revised international autoimmune hepatitis group (IAIHG) score and were divided into acute and chronic groups for comparison. Results. No significant difference was found in the gender, age, IAIHG score (pretreatment/posttreatment), definite diagnosis rate, extrahepatic autoimmune disease, onset time, or treatment before biopsy between the acute and chronic groups. In terms of clinical symptoms, A-AIH patients were more prone to jaundice, anorexia, yellow urine, and detesting oil than C-AIH patients, but melena only occurred in chronic group (P<0.05). The acute group exhibited more severe injury upon histological evaluation, with lobular inflammation and bile duct injury, especially central necrosis of the lobule, more pronounced in this group (P<0.05). Conclusion. A-AIH had manifestations of acute hepatitis and presented cholestasis. Serum indicators could preliminarily distinguish A-AIH and C-AIH. Histologically, the primary manifestation of A-AIH was lobular inflammation, which was usually accompanied by lobular central necrosis. For the diagnosis of A-AIH, more attention should be paid to long-term follow-up. This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier: NCT02994537).
Cooperative Route Planning for Multiple Aircraft in a Semifree ATC System
Authors: Yang Yi , Nan Ying , Tong Ming
Published: March 2018

This paper presents the Semifree Flight theory used in a civil air traffic control (ATC) system to improve the capability of the traditional Free Flight mode. The progressiveness and hidden defects of the “Free Flight” model in civil aviation are analysed, and the Semifree Flight ATC system mode is introduced. Moreover, this paper presents the collaborative route planning method, which is the most important method used in the Semifree Flight ATC system. This collaborative route planning method can plan routes for each aircraft (either in flight or just before achieving flight) in real time, and the routes can satisfy all the safety constraints. The final numerical simulations verify the correctness and practicability of the Semifree Flight theory and the collaborative route planning method.
A Loss of Function Screen of Epigenetic Modifiers and Splicing Factors during Early Stage of Cardiac Reprogramming
Authors: Zhou Yang , Alimohamadi Sahar , Wang Li , Liu Ziqing , Wall Joseph B. , Yin Chaoying , Liu Jiandong , Qian Li
Published: March 2018

Direct reprogramming of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) to induced cardiomyocytes (iCMs) is a newly emerged promising approach for cardiac regeneration, disease modeling, and drug discovery. However, its potential has been drastically limited due to the low reprogramming efficiency and largely unknown underlying molecular mechanisms. We have previously screened and identified epigenetic factors related to histone modification during iCM reprogramming. Here, we used shRNAs targeting an additional battery of epigenetic factors involved in chromatin remodeling and RNA splicing factors to further identify inhibitors and facilitators of direct cardiac reprogramming. Knockdown of RNA splicing factors Sf3a1 or Sf3b1 significantly reduced the percentage and total number of cardiac marker positive iCMs accompanied with generally repressed gene expression. Removal of another RNA splicing factor Zrsr2 promoted the acquisition of CM molecular features in CFs and mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) at both protein and mRNA levels. Moreover, a consistent increase of reprogramming efficiency was observed in CFs and MEFs treated with shRNAs targeting Bcor (component of BCOR complex superfamily) or Stag2 (component of cohesin complex). Our work thus reveals several additional epigenetic and splicing factors that are either inhibitory to or required for iCM reprogramming and highlights the importance of epigenetic regulation and RNA splicing process during cell fate conversion.
Genetic Diversity and Distribution ofBlastocystisSubtype 3 in Human Populations, with Special Reference to a Rural Population in Central Mexico
Authors: Rojas-Velázquez Liliana , Morán Patricia , Serrano-Vázquez Angélica , Fernández Leonardo D. , Pérez-Juárez Horacio , Poot-Hernández Augusto C. , Portillo Tobías , González Enrique , Hernández Eric , Partida-Rodríguez Oswaldo , Nieves-Ramírez Miriam E. , Magaña Ulises , Torres Javier , Eguiarte Luis E. , Piñero Daniel , Ximénez Cecilia
Published: March 2018

Blastocystissubtype 3 (ST3) is a parasitic protist found in the digestive tract of symptomatic and asymptomatic humans around the world. While this parasite exhibits a high prevalence in the human population, its true geographic distribution and global genetic diversity are still unknown. This gap in knowledge limits the understanding of the spread mechanisms, epidemiology, and impact that this parasite has on human populations. Herein, we provided new data on the geographical distribution and genetic diversity ofBlastocystisST3 from a rural human population in Mexico. To do so, we collected and targeted the SSU-rDNA region in fecal samples from this population and further compared its genetic diversity and structure with that previously observed in populations ofBlastocystisST3 from other regions of the planet. Our analyses reveled that diversity ofBlastocystisST3 showed a high haplotype diversity and genetic structure to the world level; however, they were low in the Morelos population. The haplotype network revealed a common widespread haplotype from which the others were generated recently. Finally, our results suggested a recent expansion of the diversity ofBlastocystisST3 worldwide.
ALK-Positive Squamous Cell Carcinoma Dramatically Responded to Alectinib
Authors: Sagawa Ray , Ohba Takehiko , Ito Eisaku , Isogai Susumu
Published: March 2018

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangement is usually observed in patients with adenocarcinoma. Herein, we report a case of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) with ALK rearrangement treated with alectinib. The patient was a 73-year-old woman without a smoking history. She consulted us with nonproductive cough and loss of appetite. Computed tomography scan revealed a mass in the left lower lobe of the lung. According to the pathological examinations, we diagnosed the tumor as SCC. Because the patient had never smoked, we searched for driver mutations and found that the tumor harbored ALK rearrangement. We began treatment with alectinib, and the tumor remarkably reduced in volume. No severe adverse events were observed. Although there are only few reports of SCC with ALK rearrangement, this case implies that clinicians should consider searching for driver mutations in patients with SCC when there are atypical findings or characteristics.
Auricular Cartilage Regeneration with Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in Rabbits
Authors: Oh Se-Joon , Park Hee-Young , Choi Kyung-Un , Choi Sung-Won , Kim Sung-Dong , Kong Soo-Keun , Cho Kyu-Sup
Published: March 2018

Tissue engineering cell-based therapy using induced pluripotent stem cells and adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) may be promising tools for therapeutic applications in tissue engineering because of their abundance, relatively easy harvesting, and high proliferation potential. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether ASCs can promote the auricular cartilage regeneration in the rabbit. In order to assess their differentiation ability, ASCs were injected into the midportion of a surgically created auricular cartilage defect in the rabbit. Control group was injected with normal saline. After 1 month, the resected auricles were examined histopathologically and immunohistochemically. The expression of collagen type II and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) were analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Histopathology showed islands of new cartilage formation at the site of the surgically induced defect in the ASC group. Furthermore, Masson’s trichrome staining and immunohistochemistry for S-100 showed numerous positive chondroblasts. The expression of collagen type II and TGF-β1 were significantly higher in the ASCs than in the control group. In conclusion, ASCs have regenerative effects on the auricular cartilage defect of the rabbit. These effects would be expected to contribute significantly to the regeneration of damaged cartilage tissue in vivo.
Statistical Evaluation of Indoor Air Quality Parameters in Classrooms of a University
Authors: Argunhan Zeki , Avci Ali Serkan
Published: March 2018

This study was carried out in order to determine the indoor air quality of the classrooms existing in university (Turkey). Relative humidity, temperature, carbon dioxide, radon, and particulate matters (PM0.5, PM1.0, PM2.5, PM5.0, and PM10) were taken into account as the parameters of indoor air quality measurements. The results obtained from the present work were interpreted by comparing them with the standards of different countries. The relations between all parameters were statistically examined by means of correlation and regression analysis in SPSS 17 statistical program. As a result, it was observed that indoor temperature was lower than the standards, yet carbon dioxide and PM values were higher than the upper limit, but relative humidity level was within comfort conditions. The average indoor radon concentrations were found to be below the recommended reference levels for International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), yet it was seen that the results were relatively higher in comparison with the worldwide values. In addition, it was determined that there was a meaningful relation between outdoor relative humidity, indoor relative humidity, and particulate matters in different diameters. Some solutions were suggested for the treatment of the indoor air quality for each parameter.
Medicinal Plants Used for Treatment of Diarrhoeal Related Diseases in Ethiopia
Authors: Woldeab Bizuneh , Regassa Reta , Alemu Tibebu , Megersa Moa
Published: March 2018

This paper presents a review of relevant antidiarrhoeal medicinal plants based on the fundamental knowledge accumulated by indigenous people of Ethiopia. The review includes an inventory carried out on the phytochemical and pharmacological analysis of plant species used in the treatments of diarrhoeal diseases. This study is based on a review of the literature published in scientific journals, books, theses, proceedings, and reports. A total of 132 medicinal plants used by local people of Ethiopia are reported in the reviewed literature. Herbs (43.6%) were the primary source of medicinal plants, followed by trees (27%). Some findings include the predominance of leaf material used (78%), as well as the frequent use of crushing of the plant parts (38%) as a mode of preparation. This study demonstrates the importance of traditional medicines in the treatment of basic human ailments such as diarrhoeal diseases in Ethiopia. Baseline information gaps were observed in different regions of Ethiopia. Thus, documentation of the knowledge held by other regions of Ethiopia that have so far received less attention and urban ethnobotany is recommended for future ethnobotanical studies. In addition, phytochemical studies are recommended mainly on frequently utilized medicinal plants for treatment of diarrhoeal diseases which can serve as a basis for future investigation of modern drug development. Although societies in Ethiopia have long used medicinal plants for diarrhoeal diseases treatment, it is also a good practice to perform toxicological tests.
Asthma Control and Asthma Medication Use among Swedish Elite Endurance Athletes
Authors: Persson Hampus , Lindberg Anne , Stenfors Nikolai
Published: March 2018

Background. Asthma is common in elite athletes. In this study, we examined the use of asthma medication and asthma control in endurance athletes in Sweden and compared the findings with those in a reference group of patients with asthma. Methods. The Asthma Control Test (ACT) and a questionnaire on asthma, respiratory symptoms, and medication use were posted to endurance athletes n=711 and the reference group of patients with asthma n=1026. Four hundred and sixty-nine athletes (66%) responded, of whom 141 (20%) reported physician-diagnosed asthma. In the reference group, 397 (39%) responded. Results. Seventy-seven percent of the athletes with asthma reported using asthma medication during the previous year; 39% used short/long-acting β2-agonists, 31% used inhaled corticosteroids, and 31% used both daily. According to the ACT scores, 19%, 24%, and 58% of athletes with asthma had uncontrolled, partially controlled, or well-controlled asthma, respectively. After adjustment, there was no difference in ACT scores or daily use of asthma medication between the study groups. Conclusions. Many endurance athletes had uncontrolled or partially controlled asthma, and one-third used inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting β2-agonists daily. Their adjusted ACT scores and use of asthma medication were similar to the values in the reference population.
Metamorphopsia Score and Central Visual Field Outcomes in Diabetic Cystoid Macular Edema
Authors: Kalinowska Agnieszka , Nowomiejska Katarzyna , Brzozowska Agnieszka , Maciejewski Ryszard , Rejdak Robert
Published: March 2018

Aim. To detect abnormality of the visual function in naïve patients with cystoid diabetic macular edema (DME) using M-charts, Amsler test, and white on white (W/W) and blue on yellow (B/Y) perimetry. Methods. There were 64 eyes included in the study: 30 eyes with DME, 22 eyes with diabetes without DME, and 12 eyes of normal subjects. Conventional W/W perimetry and B/Y perimetry were performed within the central 10° of the visual field. To assess metamorphopsia, Amsler test and M-charts were used. Results. The rate of detection of metamorphopsia was 37% with Amsler test examination and 50% with M-charts. Specificity of both tests was 100%. We found a significant difference between vertical scores of M-charts in all groups, but not in horizontal scores (p<0.0001). Mean defect (MD) was 8.9 dB and 3.6 dB and loss variance (LV) 4.8 dB and 3.3 dB (p<0.0001). Conclusions. M-chart is more sensitive than Amsler test method for detection of metamorphopsia. The MD and LV are higher in b/y in comparison to W/W perimetry. B/Y perimetry and M-charts are more sensitive than conventional methods for detecting the visual function loss in cystoid DME.
Recent Advances in Drug-Induced Hypersensitivity Syndrome/Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms
Authors: Watanabe Hideaki
Published: March 2018

Drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DIHS), also termed as drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), is a multiorgan systemic reaction characterized by a close relationship with the reactivation of herpes virus. Published data has demonstrated that among patients with DIHS/DRESS, 75–95% have leukocytosis, 18.2–90% show atypical lymphocytes, 52–95% have eosinophilia, and 75–100% have hepatic abnormalities. Histologically, eosinophils were observed less frequently than we expected (20%). The mainstay of DIHS/DRESS treatment is a moderate dose of systemic corticosteroids, followed by gradual dose reduction. In this review, we will emphasize that elevations in the levels of several cytokines/chemokines, including tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) α and the thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC/CCL17), during the early stage of disease, are good markers allowing the early recognition of HHV-6 reactivation. TNF-α and TARC levels also reflect therapeutic responses and may be useful markers of the DIHS disease process. Recently, the pathogenic mechanism of T-cell activation triggered by human leukocyte antigen- (HLA-) restricted presentation of a drug or metabolites was elucidated. Additionally, we recently reported that dapsone would fit within the unique subpocket of the antigen-recognition site of HLA-B∗13:01. Further studies will render it possible to choose better strategies for DIHS prevention and therapy.
Water Quality Monitoring Method Based on TLD 3D Fish Tracking and XGBoost
Authors: Cheng Shuhong , Zhang Shijun , Li Leihua , Zhang Dianfan
Published: March 2018

Aiming at the problem of water quality monitoring, this paper presents a method of biological water quality monitoring based on TLD (Tracking-Learning-Detection) framework and XGBoost (eXtreme Gradient Boosting). Firstly, under the framework of TLD, an independent tracking system is designed; TLD captures 3D coordinate information of fish based on video and calculates the behavior of fish movement parameters which can reflect the change of water quality via processing the coordinate information of the fish body. The data of coordinate information will be more prominent via the data processing. The integration of all built XGBoost water quality monitoring model which is based on characteristic parameters; the model was used to analyze and evaluate fish behavior parameters under unknown water quality to achieve the purpose of water quality monitoring.
Local Degree of Freedom of Clutter for Reduced-Dimension Space-Time Adaptive Processing with MIMO Radar
Authors: Guo Yiduo , Gong Jian , Xiao Yu
Published: March 2018

Degree of freedom (DOF) of clutter in the reduced-dimension (RD) domain, which is called local DOF (LDOF), is of great importance for RD MIMO-STAP (space-time adaptive processing for multiple-input multiple-output radar) algorithms. In this paper, the LDOF equivalence of different RD MIMO-STAP algorithms are firstly proved, and then a generalized LDOF estimation rule under different conditions is developed to estimate the clutter LDOF for MIMO radar effectively. The accuracy of the proposed rule is verified, and how to design RD MIMO-STAP processors under the guidance of the proposed rule is presented through numerical simulations.
Epigenetic Regulations in Neural Stem Cells and Neurological Diseases
Authors: Zhou Hang , Wang Bin , Sun Hao , Xu Xingshun , Wang Yongxiang
Published: March 2018

Among the regulatory mechanisms of the renewal and differentiation of neural stem cells, recent evidences support that epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and noncoding RNAs play critical roles in the regulation on the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells. In this review, we discussed recent advances of DNA modifications on the regulative mechanisms of neural stem cells. Among these epigenetic modifications, DNA 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) modification is emerging as an important modulator on the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells. At the same time, Ten-eleven translocation (Tet) methylcytosine dioxygenases, the rate-limiting enzyme for the 5-hydroxymethylation reaction from 5-methylcytosine to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, play a critical role in the tumorigenesis and the proliferation and differentiation of stem cells. The functions of 5hmC and TET proteins on neural stem cells and their roles in neurological diseases are discussed.
Gear Shifting of Quadriceps during Isometric Knee Extension Disclosed Using Ultrasonography
Authors: Zhang Shu , Huang Weijian , Zeng Yu , Shi Wenxiu , Diao Xianfen , Wei Xiguang , Ling Shan
Published: March 2018

Ultrasonography has been widely employed to estimate the morphological changes of muscle during contraction. To further investigate the motion pattern of quadriceps during isometric knee extensions, we studied the relative motion pattern between femur and quadriceps under ultrasonography. An interesting observation is that although the force of isometric knee extension can be controlled to change almost linearly, femur in the simultaneously captured ultrasound video sequences has several different piecewise moving patterns. This phenomenon is like quadriceps having several forward gear ratios like a car starting from rest towards maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and then returning to rest. Therefore, to verify this assumption, we captured several ultrasound video sequences of isometric knee extension and collected the torque/force signal simultaneously. Then we extract the shapes of femur from these ultrasound video sequences using video processing techniques and study the motion pattern both qualitatively and quantitatively. The phenomenon can be seen easier via a comparison between the torque signal and relative spatial distance between femur and quadriceps. Furthermore, we use cluster analysis techniques to study the process and the clustering results also provided preliminary support to the conclusion that, during both ramp increasing and decreasing phases, quadriceps contraction may have several forward gear ratios relative to femur.
Mechanical Characterization of Lightweight Foamed Concrete
Authors: Kozłowski Marcin , Kadela Marta
Published: March 2018

Foamed concrete shows excellent physical characteristics such as low self weight, relatively high strength and superb thermal and acoustic insulation properties. It allows for minimal consumption of aggregate, and by replacement of a part of cement by fly ash, it contributes to the waste utilization principles. For many years, the application of foamed concrete has been limited to backfill of retaining walls, insulation of foundations and roof tiles sound insulation. However, during the last few years, foamed concrete has become a promising material for structural purposes. A series of tests was carried out to examine mechanical properties of foamed concrete mixes without fly ash and with fly ash content. In addition, the influence of 25 cycles of freezing and thawing on the compressive strength was investigated. The apparent density of hardened foamed concrete is strongly correlated with the foam content in the mix. An increase of the density of foamed concrete results in a decrease of flexural strength. For the same densities, the compressive strength obtained for mixes containing fly ash is approximately 20% lower in comparison to the specimens without fly ash. Specimens subjected to 25 freeze‐thaw cycles show approximately 15% lower compressive strengths compared to the untreated specimens.
The Role of the Immune Response in the Pathogenesis of Bronchiectasis
Authors: King Paul T.
Published: March 2018

Bronchiectasis is a prevalent respiratory condition characterised by permanent and abnormal dilation of the lung airways (bronchi). There are a large variety of causative factors that have been identified for bronchiectasis; all of these compromise the function of the immune response to fight infection. A triggering factor may lead to the establishment of chronic infection in the lower respiratory tract. The bacteria responsible for the lower respiratory tract infection are usually found as commensals in the upper respiratory tract microbiome. The consequent inflammatory response to infection is largely responsible for the pathology of this condition. Both innate and adaptive immune responses are activated. The literature has highlighted the central role of neutrophils in the pathogenesis of bronchiectasis. Proteases produced in the lung by the inflammatory response damage the airways and lead to the pathological dilation that is the pathognomonic feature of bronchiectasis. The small airways demonstrate infiltration with lymphoid follicles that may contribute to localised small airway obstruction. Despite aggressive treatment, most patients will have persistent disease. Manipulating the immune response in bronchiectasis may potentially have therapeutic potential.
AGE/RAGE-Induced EMP Release via the NOX-Derived ROS Pathway
Authors: Chen Ying-Hua , Chen Zhang-Wei , Li Hong-Mei , Yan Xin-Feng , Feng Bo
Published: March 2018

Objective. Diabetes is associated with accelerated formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that are extensively found in circulating endothelial microparticles (EMPs). This study aimed to investigate whether AGEs have a direct effect on EMP formation and the possible underlying mechanism. Methods. In vitro, cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were incubated with AGEs (200 and 400 μg/ml) for 24 hours with or without pretreatment with anti-RAGE antibody, NOX inhibitor, or ROS scavenger. The number of CD31-positive EMPs was assessed by flow cytometry. Results. The number of EMPs was significantly increased in HUVECs stimulated by AGEs in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, receptors for AGEs (RAGE), NAD(P)H oxidase (NOX), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were increased by AGEs as compared to the control group. These changes could be reversed when HUVECs were pretreated with anti-RAGE antibody. Moreover, inhibition of NOX as well as antioxidant treatment reduced the release of EMPs induced by AGEs. Conclusion. Our study suggested that AGEs increased EMP generation, which was mediated by RAGE signaling through NOX-derived ROS.
Mean Corpuscular Volume as a Predictive Factor of Response to Preoperative Chemoradiotherapy in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer
Authors: Zhang Wen-Yi , Chen Xing-Xing , Chen Wen-Hao , Zhang Hui , Zou Chang-Lin
Published: March 2018

Background. The aim of this study was to identify if blood routine parameters and serum tumor marker are potential predictive factors for tumor response to preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in locally advanced rectal cancer. Materials and Methods. 55 locally advanced rectal cancer patients were treated with preoperative CRT in this study. The total dose of preoperative radiotherapy was 45 Gy in 25 fractions of 1.8 in 5 weeks. All patients concurrently received 825 mg/m2 capecitabine orally twice daily on days 1 to 14 and 22 to 35. Total mesorectal excision (TME) was performed 6 weeks after the end of preoperative CRT. Blood routine examination and serum tumor marker were checked before preoperative CRT. Tumor response to preoperative CRT was evaluated with the semiquantitative tumor regression grading (TRG) system proposed by Dworak criteria according to histopathological examination of the surgical specimens. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to test the association between blood routine parameters and serum tumor marker and tumor response to preoperative CRT. Results. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that differentiation, lymphocyte, LMR, MCV, PLR, and CEA have been significantly associated with tumor response to preoperative CRT. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that differentiation, MCV, and CEA were the predictors of tumor response to preoperative CRT. According to the ROC analysis, the AUC of differentiation, MCV, and CEA was 0.794, 0.802, and 0.723, respectively. Optimal cutoff points for MCV and CEA were 87.65 fl and 4.05 ng/ml, respectively. Conclusion. MCV is a potential predictive factor for tumor response to preoperative chemoradiation in locally advanced rectal cancer.
Composite Higgs Models after Run 2
Authors: Sanz Veronica , Setford Jack
Published: March 2018

We assess the status of models in which Higgs is a composite pseudo-Nambu Goldstone boson, in the light of the latest 13 TeV Run 2 Higgs data. Drawing from the extensive Composite Higgs literature, we collect together predictions for the modified couplings of Higgs, in particular examining the different predictions for κV and κF. Despite the variety and increasing complexity of models on the market, we point out that many independent models make identical predictions for these couplings. We then look into further corrections induced by tree-level effects such as mass-mixing and singlet VEVs. We then investigate the compatibility of different models with the data, combining Run 1 and recent Run 2 LHC data. We obtain a robust limit on the scale f of 600 GeV, with stronger limits for different choices of fermion embeddings. We also discuss how a deficit in a Higgs channel could pinpoint the type of Composite Higgs model responsible for it.
An Evolutionary Computation Approach for Optimizing Multilevel Data to Predict Patient Outcomes
Authors: Barnes Sean , Saria Suchi , Levin Scott
Published: March 2018

Widespread adoption of electronic health records (EHR) and objectives for meaningful use have increased opportunities for data-driven predictive applications in healthcare. These decision support applications are often fueled by large-scale, heterogeneous, and multilevel (i.e., defined at hierarchical levels of specificity) patient data that challenge the development of predictive models. Our objective is to develop and evaluate an approach for optimally specifying multilevel patient data for prediction problems. We present a general evolutionary computational framework to optimally specify multilevel data to predict individual patient outcomes. We evaluate this method for both flattening (single level) and retaining the hierarchical predictor structure (multiple levels) using data collected to predict critical outcomes for emergency department patients across five populations. We find that the performance of both the flattened and hierarchical predictor structures in predicting critical outcomes for emergency department patients improve upon the baseline models for which only a single level of predictor—either more general or more specific—is used (p<0.001). Our framework for optimizing the specificity of multilevel data improves upon more traditional single-level predictor structures and can readily be adapted to similar problems in healthcare and other domains.