bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase Transformation of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles from Hematite to Maghemite in Presence of Polyethylene Glycol: Application as Corrosion Resistant Nanoparticle Paints
Authors: Katikaneani Pavani , Vaddepally Ajay Kumar , Reddy Tippana Narender , Banavath Ramu , Kommu Srivani
Published: August 2016

This work proposes a simple method for the efficient and rapid synthesis of hematite (α-Fe2O3) nanostructures based on simple heating method under ambient conditions. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is employed as a structure directing agent in driving the morphology and phase transformation. Typically, Fe2O3 nanoparticles of size below 50 nm were synthesized at temperature around 500°C. The morphology and mechanism of formation of the nanocapsules and then aggregation of nanocapsules to form larger size nanoclusters were studied by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Interestingly, this work demonstrates the structural phase transformation of hematite (α-Fe2O3) to maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) upon addition of different amounts of PEG (say 0.066 M, 0.133 M, and 0.2 M) and then heat treating at 500°C. The prepared powders were used in nanoparticle paint preparation and applied as corrosion resistant coatings on iron samples. Polarization studies performed on the paint coatings made out of all the prepared samples showed size-dependent corrosion resistance. As the particle size decreases, the surface area increases and so the corrosion resistance also increases.
Fatal Meningitis in a 14-Month-Old with Currarino Triad
Authors: Al Qahtani Hanan Mohammed , Suliman Aljoqiman Khalid , Arabi Hisham , Al Shaalan Hesham , Singh Sumit
Published: August 2016

We report a case of a 14-month-old girl with undiagnosed Currarino triad presenting acutely with meningitis caused by enteric commensals. Head CT demonstrated a large pneumocephalus. A fistulous neurenteric tract through a presacral mass was present on spine MRI and abdominal CT. The patient had a history of constipation for the last three months. However, an underlying diagnosis of Currarino triad had not been suspected. In retrospect, a sickle-shaped sacral anomaly was present on a previous abdominal radiograph. The patient succumbed to complications of meningitis. The purpose of the case report is to highlight the potentially fatal complication of Currarino triad and sensitize radiologists to look actively for sacral anomalies on abdominal radiographs, especially of children with chronic constipation.
Low Neonatal Mortality and High Incidence of Infectious Diseases in a Vietnamese Province Hospital
Authors: Ho Binh T. T. , Kruse Alexandra Y. , Le Hue T. H. , Cam Phuong N. , Pedersen Freddy K.
Published: August 2016

Background. Neonatal deaths constitute the majority of child mortality in Vietnam, but studies are scarce and focus on community settings.Methods. During a 12-month period, all sick neonates admitted to a pediatric department in a province hospital were studied. Potential risk factors of death covering sociodemographic factors, pregnancy history, previous neonatal period, and status on admission were registered. The neonates were followed up until discharge or death or until 28 completed days of age if still hospitalized or until withdrawal of life support. The main outcome was neonatal death.Results. The neonatal mortality was 4.6% (50/1094). In a multivariate analysis, four associated risk factors of death were extremely low birth weight (OR=22.9(2.3–233.4)), no cry at birth (OR=3.5(1.3–9.4)), and cyanosis (OR=3.3(1.2–8.7)) and shock (OR=12.3(2.5–61.5)) on admission. The major discharge diagnoses were infection, prematurity, congenital malformations, and asphyxia in 88.5% (936/1058), 21.3% (225/1058), 5.0% (53/1058), and 4.6% (49/1058), respectively. In 36, a discharge diagnosis was not registered.Conclusion. Infection was the main cause of neonatal morbidity. Asphyxia and congenital malformations were diagnosed less frequently. The neonatal mortality was 4.6%. No sociodemographic factors were associated with death. Extreme low birth weight, no cry at birth, and cyanosis or shock at admission were associated with death.
Treatment of Refractory Postdural Puncture Headache after Intrathecal Drug Delivery System Implantation with Epidural Blood Patch Procedures: A 20-Year Experience
Authors: Bendel Markus A. , Moeschler Susan M. , Qu Wenchun , Hanley Eugerie , Neuman Stephanie A. , Eldrige Jason S. , Hoelzer Bryan C.
Published: August 2016

A recent publication reported the incidence of postdural puncture headache (PDPH) in conjunction with intrathecal drug delivery system (IDDS) implantation to be nearly 23 percent. Many patients responded to conservative measures but a percentage needed invasive treatment with an epidural blood patch (EBP). There is limited data to describe the technical details, success rates, and complications associated with EBP in this population. This study aims to provide a retrospective report of EBP for patients suffering from PDPH related to IDDS implantation. A chart review established a cohort of patients that required EBP in relation to a PDPH after IDDS implantation. This cohort was evaluated for demographic data as well as details of the EBP including technical procedural data, success rates, and complications. All patients received a trial of conservative therapy. Standard sterile technique and skin preparation were utilized with no infectious complications. The EBP was placed below the level of the IDDS catheter in 94% of procedures. Fluoroscopy was utilized in each case. The mean EBP volume was 18.6 cc and median time of EBP was day 7 after implant. There were no complications associated with EBP. EBP appears to be an effective intervention in this subset of PDPH patients.
Geopolymers Based on Phosphoric Acid and Illito-Kaolinitic Clay
Authors: Louati S. , Baklouti S. , Samet B.
Published: August 2016

New three-dimensional geopolymer materials based on illito-kaolinitic clay and phosphoric acid were synthesized. The effect of Si/P molar ratio on the geopolymers properties was studied. Raw, calcined clay, and geopolymers structures were investigated using XRD, IR spectroscopy, and SEM. The phosphoric acid-based geopolymers mechanical properties were evaluated by measuring the compressive strength. The Si/P molar ratio was found to increase with the increase of the compressive strength of the obtained geopolymers, which attained a maximum value at Si/P equal to 2.75. Beyond this ratio, the mechanical strength decreases. The XRD patterns of these geopolymers samples have proven that when the Si/P molar ratio decreases, the amorphous phase content increases. Besides, the structural analyses have revealed the presence of aluminum phosphate and Si-O-Al-O-P polymeric structure, whatever the Si/P molar ratio is (between 2.25 and 3.5). The obtained results have confirmed that the presence of the associated minerals such as hematite and quartz in the clay does not prevent the geopolymerization reaction, but the presence of illite mineral seems to have a modest contribution in the geopolymerization.
A Case of Cryptorchidism with Ipsilateral Congenital Unilateral Absence of the Vas Deferens and Contralateral Renal Agenesis
Authors: Yu Young Dong , Hong Young Kwon
Published: August 2016

Introduction and Aims. Congenital absence of the vas deferens is an uncommon anomaly and this clinical condition is responsible for up to 1-2% of male infertility. It can be either unilateral or bilateral and the associated anomalies include cryptorchidism, seminal vesicles and ejaculatory ducts anomalies, and renal anomalies such as renal agenesis. We hereby present a case of congenital unilateral absence of vas deferens, which was found incidentally during an evaluation of undescended testis in a patient with ipsilateral renal agenesis.Case Presentation. A 10-month-old boy was referred to the urology clinic with an undescended right testis. Preoperative abdominal ultrasonography showed agenesis of the right kidney and the absence of right vas deferens and epididymis was confirmed during laparoscopic orchiectomy performed due to short right spermatic cord. There were no other concomitant anomalies of the genitourinary system observed in evaluation.Conclusion. Congenital unilateral absence of the vas deferens with cryptorchidism and renal agenesis is a rare diagnostic entity. Cryptorchidism or absent vas deferens found incidentally should lead the physician to evaluate the status of the contralateral vas deferens and conduct a renal tract ultrasound study.
Oxidative Stress and Treg and Th17 Dysfunction in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Yang Ji , Yang Xue , Zou Hejian , Li Ming
Published: August 2016

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that involves multiple organ systems. The pathogenic mechanisms that cause SLE remain unclear; however, it is well recognized that the immune balance is disturbed and that this imbalance contributes to the autoimmune symptoms of SLE. Oxidative stress represents an imbalance between the production and manifestation of reactive oxygen species and the ability of the biological system to readily detoxify the reactive intermediates or to repair the resulting damage. In humans, oxidative stress is involved in many diseases, including atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and autoimmune diseases. Numerous studies have confirmed that oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of SLE. This review mainly focuses on the recent research advances with respect to oxidative stress and regulatory T (Treg)/helper T 17 (Th17) cell dysfunction in the pathogenesis of SLE.
Infection Related Inferior Alveolar Nerve Paresthesia in the Lower Premolar Teeth
Authors: Censi Rachele , Vavassori Virna , Borgonovo Andrea Enrico , Re Dino
Published: August 2016

Introduction. The aim of this paper was to describe two cases of IAN infection-induced paresthesia and to discuss the most appropriate treatment solutions.Methods. For two patients, periapical lesions that induced IAN paresthesia were revealed. In the first case, the tooth was previously endodontically treated, whereas in the second case the lesion was due to pulp necrosis.Results. For the first patient, a progressive healing was observed only after the tooth extraction. In the second patient, the paresthesia had resolved after endodontic treatment.Conclusions. The endodontic-related paresthesia is a rare complication that can be the result of a combination of etiopathogenic mechanisms such as mechanical pressure on the nerve fibers due to the expanding infectious process and the production of microbial toxins. Paresthesia resulting from periapical lesions usually subsides through elimination of infection by root canal treatment. However, if there are no signs of enhancement, the immediate extraction of the tooth is the treatment of choice in order to prevent irreversible paresthesia because it was demonstrated that there is a correlation between the duration of mechanical or chemical irritation and the risk of permanent paresthesia.
Polymyalgia Rheumatica Revealing a Lymphoma: A Two-Case Report
Authors: Verhoeven Frank , Guillot Xavier , Chouk Mickaël , Prati Clément , Wendling Daniel
Published: August 2016

Introduction. Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is one of the most common inflammatory rheumatism types in elderly population. The link between cancer and PMR is a matter of debate.Methods. We report two cases of PMR leading to the diagnosis of lymphoma and the growing interest of PET-TDM in this indication.Results. A 84-year-old man known for idiopathic neutropenia presented an inflammatory arthromyalgia of the limb girdle since one month. Blood exams highlighted the presence of a monoclonal B cell clone. Bone marrow concluded to a B cell lymphoma of the marginal zone. He was successfully treated with 0.3 mg/kg/d of prednisone, and response was sustained after 6 months. A 73-year-old man known for prostatic neoplasia in remission for 5 years presented arthromyalgia of the limb girdle since one month. PET-CT revealed bursitis of the hips and the shoulders, no prostatic cancer recurrence, and a metabolically active iliac lymphadenopathy whose pathologic exam concluded to a low grade follicular lymphoma. He was successfully treated with 0.3 mg/kg/d of prednisone.Conclusion. These observations may imply that lymphoma is sometimes already present when PMR is diagnosed and PET-CT is a useful tool in the initial assessment of PMR to avoid missing neoplasia.
Case Report of Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma of Uterine Cervix Treated at a Semiurban Cancer Centre in North India
Authors: Sharma Vibhor , Dora Tapas , Patel Mehul , Sancheti Sankalp , Sridhar Epari
Published: August 2016

Lymphoma of the uterine cervix is very rare. We report a case of diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) involving the uterine cervix treated at a newly commissioned semiurban cancer centre in north India in 2015. Data for this study was obtained from the hospital electronic medical records and the patient’s case file. We also reviewed published case reports of uterine and cervical lymphoma involving forty-one patients. We treated a case of stage IV DLBCL cervix with six cycles of R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone) and intrathecal methotrexate followed by consolidation with radiotherapy. The patient showed complete response to chemotherapy. We conclude that, in advanced stage lymphoma involving uterus and cervix, combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy is effective in short term.
Control Parametric Analysis on Improving Park Restoring Force Model and Damage Evaluation of High-Strength Structure
Authors: Lin Huang-bin , Tang Shou-gao , Lan Cheng
Published: August 2016

In the dynamic time-history analysis of structural elastoplasticity, it is important to develop a universal mathematical model that can describe the force-displacement characteristics for restoring force. By defining three control parameters (stiffness degradation, slip closureγ, energy degradationβ), the Park restoring force mathematical model can simulate various components. In this study, the Park restoring force has been improved by adding two control parameters (energy-based strength degradationβeand ductility-based strength degradationβd). Based on the testing data, the constitutive model is input and 55 numerical models are developed to analyze the effects of various parameters on structural behavior.Conclusion. (1)βhas determinative effect on structural behavior; the effect ofβeis basically consistent with that ofβ;αhas significant effect on shear forces and bending moments;γhas significant effect on displacements and accelerations;βdhas significant effect on shearing forces, acceleration, and total energy consumptions. (2) Based on the classification of four types of damage level, the recommended values forα,γ,β,βe, andβdare presented. (3) Based on the testing data of high-strength columns, the recommended values for the five control parameters of the improved Park restoring force model are presented.
In VitroAntimicrobial Bioassays, DPPH Radical Scavenging Activity, and FTIR Spectroscopy Analysis ofHeliotropium bacciferum
Authors: Ahmad Sohail , AbdEl-Salam Naser M. , Ullah Riaz
Published: August 2016

The present study deals with the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and functional group analysis ofHeliotropium bacciferumextracts. Disc diffusion susceptibility method was followed for antimicrobial assessment. Noteworthy antimicrobial activities were recorded by various plant extracts against antibiotic resistant microorganisms. Plant flower extracts antioxidant activity was investigated against 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl radical by ultraviolet spectrophotometer (517 nm). Plant extracts displayed noteworthy radical scavenging activities at all concentrations (25–225 μg/mL). Notable activities were recorded by crude, chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts up to 88.27% at 225 μg/mL concentration. Compounds functional groups were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic studies. Alkanes, alkenes, alkyl halides, amines, carboxylic acids, amides, esters, alcohols, phenols, nitrocompounds, and aromatic compounds were identified by FTIR analysis. Thin layer chromatography bioautography was carried out for all plant extracts. Different bands were separated by various solvent systems. The results of the current study justify the use ofHeliotropium bacciferumin traditional remedial herbal medicines.
Transneuronal Degeneration of Thalamic Nuclei following Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion in Rats
Authors: Chang Shu-Jen , Cherng Juin-Hong , Wang Ding-Han , Yu Shu-Ping , Liou Nien-Hsien , Hsu Ming-Lun
Published: August 2016

Objective.Postinfarction transneuronal degeneration refers to secondary neuronal death that occurs within a few days to weeks following the disruption of input or output to synapsed neurons sustaining ischemic insults. The thalamus receives its blood supply from the posterior circulation; however, infarctions of the middle cerebral arterial may cause secondary transneuronal degeneration in the thalamus. In this study, we presented the areas of ischemia and associated transneuronal degeneration following MCAo in a rat model.Materials and Methods.Eighteen 12-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to receive middle cerebral artery occlusion surgery for 1, 7, and 14 days. Cerebral atrophy was assessed by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium hydrochloride staining. Postural reflex and open field tests were performed prior to animal sacrifice to assess the effects of occlusion on behavior.Results.Myelin loss was observed at the lesion site following ischemia. Gliosis was also observed in thalamic regions 14 days following occlusion. Differential degrees of increased vascular endothelial growth factor expression were observed at each stage of infarction. Increases in myelin basic protein levels were also observed in the 14-day group.Conclusion.The present rat model of ischemia provides evidence of transneuronal degeneration within the first 14 days of occlusion. The observed changes in protein expression may be associated with self-repair mechanisms in the damaged brain.
Preparation of Modified Films with Protein from Grouper Fish
Authors: Valdivia-López M. A. , Tecante A. , Granados-Navarrete S. , Martínez-García C.
Published: August 2016

A protein concentrate (PC) was obtained from Grouper fish skin and it was used to prepare films with different amounts of sorbitol and glycerol as plasticizers. The best performing films regarding resistance were then modified with various concentrations of CaCl2, CaSO4(calcium salts), and glucono-δ-lactone (GDL) with the purpose of improving their mechanical and barrier properties. These films were characterized by determining their mechanical properties and permeability to water vapor and oxygen. Formulations with 5% (w/v) protein and 75% sorbitol and 4% (w/v) protein with a mixture of 15% glycerol and 15% sorbitol produced adequate films. Calcium salts and GDL increased the tensile fracture stress but reduced the fracture strain and decreased water vapor permeability compared with control films. The films prepared represent an attractive alternative for being used as food packaging materials.
Diversity of Molecular Mechanisms Conferring Carbapenem Resistance toPseudomonas aeruginosaIsolates from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Agamy Mohamed H. , Jeannot Katy , El-Mahdy Taghrid S. , Samaha Hassan A. , Shibl Atef M. , Plésiat Patrick , Courvalin Patrice
Published: August 2016

Background.This study described various molecular and epidemiological characters determining antibiotic resistance patterns inPseudomonas aeruginosaisolates.Methods.A total of 34 carbapenem-resistantP. aeruginosaclinical isolates were isolated from samples collected at a tertiary hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from January to December 2011. Susceptibility testing, serotyping, molecular characterization of carbapenem resistance, and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) were performed.Results.All isolates were resistant to ceftazidime, and more than half were highly resistant (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) > 256 mg/L). Fifteen isolates had MIC values ≥64 mg/L for any of the carbapenems examined. Vietnamese extended-spectrumβ-lactamase (VEB-1) (n=16/34) and oxacillinase (OXA-10) (n=14/34) were the most prevalent extended-spectrumβ-lactamase and penicillinase, respectively. Verona imipenemase (VIM-1, VIM-2, VIM-4, VIM-11, and VIM-28) and imipenemase (IMP-7) variants were found in metallo-β-lactamase producers. A decrease in outer membrane porin gene (oprD) expression was seen in nine isolates, and an increase in efflux pump gene (MexAB) expression was detected in five isolates. Six serotypes (O:1, O:4, O:7, O:10, O:11, and O:15) were found among the 34 isolates. The predominant serotype was O:11 (16 isolates), followed by O:15 (nine isolates). PFGE analysis of the 34 carbapenem-resistantP. aeruginosaisolates revealed 14 different pulsotypes.Conclusions.These results revealed diverse mechanisms conferring carbapenem resistance toP. aeruginosaisolates from Saudi Arabia.
Bidding Strategy to Support Decision-Making Based on Comprehensive Information in Construction Projects
Authors: Liang Ru , Sheng Zhaohan , Xu Feng , Wu Changzhi
Published: August 2016

This paper develops a unified method to support contractor for bidding selection in construction projects. A cross-functional contractor with 28 candidate units distributed in the three departments (construction units, design units, and suppliers) is used as an example. This problem is first formulated as a 0-1 quadratic programming problem through optimizing individual performance and collaborative performance of the candidate units based on individual information and collaborative information. Then, a multiobjective evolutionary algorithm is designed to solve this problem and a bidding selection problem for a major bridge project is used to demonstrate our proposed method. The results show that the decision-maker (DM) obtains a better contractor if he pays more attention to collaborative performance.
Determine the Foot Strike Pattern Using Inertial Sensors
Authors: Shiang Tzyy-Yuang , Hsieh Tsung-Yu , Lee Yin-Shin , Wu Chen-Chi , Yu Meng-Chieh , Mei Chung-Huan , Tai I-Han
Published: August 2016

From biomechanical point of view, strike pattern plays an important role in preventing potential injury risk in running. Traditionally, strike pattern determination was conducted by using 3D motion analysis system with cameras. However, the procedure is costly and not convenient. With the rapid development of technology, sensors have been applied in sport science field lately. Therefore, this study was designed to determine the algorithm that can identify landing strategies with a wearable sensor. Six healthy male participants were recruited to perform heel and forefoot strike strategies at 7, 10, and 13 km/h speeds. The kinematic data were collected by Vicon 3D motion analysis system and 2 inertial measurement units (IMU) attached on the dorsal side of both shoes. The data of each foot strike were gathered for pitch angle and strike index analysis. Comparing the strike index from IMU with the pitch angle from Vicon system, our results showed that both signals exhibited highly correlated changes between different strike patterns in the sagittal plane (r=0.98). Based on the findings, the IMU sensors showed potential capabilities and could be extended beyond the context of sport science to other fields, including clinical applications.
Interfacial Effects on the Spherulitic Morphology of Isotactic Polystyrene Thin Films on Liquid Substrates
Authors: Sasaki Takashi , Nakagiri Masaaki , Irie Satoshi
Published: August 2016

The influence of interfaces on the morphology of flat spherulites of isotactic polystyrene (iPS) grown in thin films on liquid substrates was investigated. Amorphous iPS thin films spin-cast from a solution were annealed for cold crystallization on glycerol and silicone oil (nonsolvents for iPS). The number density of grown spherulites was revealed to be higher on the glycerol substrate than on the silicone oil substrate. This implies that the primary nucleation rate of crystallization is greater at the iPS/glycerol interface than at the iPS/silicone oil interface. The results may be consistent with the previous findings that concern the molecular interaction between atactic polystyrene and nonsolvents at the interface. In some cases, holes were formed in the thin films during the cold crystallization due to dewetting, which also significantly affect the spherulite morphology via, for example, transcrystallization.
The Analysis of Biomechanical Properties of Proximal Femur after Implant Removal
Authors: Yang Jae Hyuk , Jung Tae Gon , Honnurappa Arjun Rupanagudi , Cha Jae Min , Ham Chang Hwa , Kim Tae Yoon , Suh Seung Woo
Published: August 2016

Introduction. To compare the biomechanical stability of the femur following the removal of proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA-II) and dynamic hip screw (DHS). Material and Methods. 56 paired cadaveric femurs were used as experimental and control groups. In the experimental group, PFNA-II and DHS were randomly inserted into femurs on both sides and then removed. Thereafter, compression load was applied until fracture occurred; biomechanical stability of the femurs and associated fracture patterns were studied. Results. The ultimate load and stiffness of the control group were 6227.8±1694.1 N and 990.5±99.8 N/mm, respectively. These were significantly higher than experimental group (p=0.014, <0.001) following the removal of PFNA-II (4085.6±1628.03 N and 656.3±155.3 N/mm) and DHS (4001.9±1588.3 N and 656.3±155.3 N/mm). No statistical differences in these values were found between the 2 device groups (p=0.84, 0.71), regardless of age groups. However, fracture patterns were different between two devices, intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures. Conclusions. Mechanical stability of the proximal femurs does not differ after the removal of 2 different of fixation devices regardless of the age. However, it was significantly lower compared to an intact femur. Different fracture patterns have been shown following the removal of different fixation devices as there are variations in the site of stress risers for individual implants.
Optimization Design for Detonation Powerplant Based on LS-DYNA Simulation
Authors: Ai Yongbao , Lu Ming
Published: August 2016

To ensure the accuracy of the work capacity of the detonation powerplant, the explosive and shock process of detonation powerplants was simulated with LS-DYNA. Many maximum rising displacements of the cartridge indicating the work capacity of the device were obtained, under different fit clearances of the device. It was proved that fit clearances were the key factors affecting the work capacity of the device, and reasonable range for fit clearances was found. Besides, the objective function, constraint condition, and optimization design variables of the Genetic Algorithm were determined according to the design indicators of the detonation powerplant. The theoretical values of fit clearances of the optimization design of detonation powerplants were obtained. At last, the tests of the work capacity of the detonation powerplant and LS-DYNA simulation proved the rationality of the theoretical values from the Genetic Algorithm, providing an experimental proof for the accuracy design, which could control the service door movement accurately.
Bone Regeneration after Treatment with Covering Materials Composed of Flax Fibers and Biodegradable Plastics: A Histological Study in Rats
Authors: Gredes Tomasz , Kunath Franziska , Gedrange Tomasz , Kunert-Keil Christiane
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to examine the osteogenic potential of new flax covering materials. Bone defects were created on the skull of forty rats. Materials of pure PLA and PCL and their composites with flax fibers, genetically modified producing PHB (PLA-transgen, PCL-transgen) and unmodified (PLA-wt, PCL-wt), were inserted. The skulls were harvested after four weeks and subjected to histological examination. The percentage of bone regeneration by using PLA was less pronounced than after usage of pure PCL in comparison with controls. After treatment with PCL-transgen, a large amount of new formed bone could be found. In contrast, PCL-wt decreased significantly the bone regeneration, compared to the other tested groups. The bone covers made of pure PLA had substantially less influence on bone regeneration and the bone healing proceeded with a lot of connective tissue, whereas PLA-transgen and PLA-wt showed nearly comparable amount of new formed bone. Regarding the histological data, the hypothesis could be proposed that PCL and its composites have contributed to a higher quantity of the regenerated bone, compared to PLA. The histological studies showed comparable bone regeneration processes after treatment with tested covering materials, as well as in the untreated bone lesions.
Parameter Identification Method for SINS Initial Alignment under Inertial Frame
Authors: Xue Haijian , Guo Xiaosong , Zhou Zhaofa
Published: August 2016

The performance of a strapdown inertial navigation system (SINS) largely depends on the accuracy and rapidness of the initial alignment. The conventional alignment method with parameter identification has been already applied widely, but it needs to calculate the gyroscope drifts through two-position method; then the time of initial alignment is greatly prolonged. For this issue, a novel self-alignment algorithm by parameter identification method under inertial frame for SINS is proposed in this paper. Firstly, this coarse alignment method using the gravity in the inertial frame as a reference is discussed to overcome the limit of dynamic disturbance on a rocking base and fulfill the requirement for the fine alignment. Secondly, the fine alignment method by parameter identification under inertial frame is formulated. The theoretical analysis results show that the fine alignment model is fully self-aligned with no external reference information and the gyrodrifts can be estimated in real time. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method can achieve rapid and highly accurate initial alignment for SINS.
Identification of Secretory Proteins inMycobacterium tuberculosisUsing Pseudo Amino Acid Composition
Authors: Yang Huan , Tang Hua , Chen Xin-Xin , Zhang Chang-Jian , Zhu Pan-Pan , Ding Hui , Chen Wei , Lin Hao
Published: August 2016

Tuberculosis is killing millions of lives every year and on the blacklist of the most appalling public health problems. Recent findings suggest that secretory protein ofMycobacterium tuberculosismay serve the purpose of developing specific vaccines and drugs due to their antigenicity. Responding to global infectious disease, we focused on the identification of secretory proteins inMycobacterium tuberculosis. A novel method calledMycoSecwas designed by incorporatingg-gap dipeptide compositions into pseudo amino acid composition. Analysis of variance-based technique was applied in the process of feature selection and a total of 374 optimal features were obtained and used for constructing the final predicting model. In the jackknife test,MycoSecyielded a good performance with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.93, demonstrating that the proposed system is powerful and robust. For user’s convenience, the web server MycoSec was established and an obliging manual on how to use it was provided for getting around any trouble unnecessary.
Perforation of an Occult Carcinoma of the Prostate as a Rare Differential Diagnosis of Subcutaneous Emphysema of the Leg
Authors: Velickovic Mirko , Hockertz Thomas
Published: August 2016

We report a case of subcutaneous emphysema caused by perforation of the rectum due to a carcinoma of the prostate. Although rare, an abdominal cause must always be considered as a rare differential diagnosis of subcutaneous emphysema. As a matter of fact adequate diagnostic with rapid treatment is essential for the outcome.
Kuntai Capsule Inhibited Endometriosis via Inducing Apoptosis in a Rat Model
Authors: Zhong Ruihua , Ma Aying , Zhu Jianping , Li Guoting , Xie Shuwu , Li Zhao , Gui Youlun , Zhu Yan
Published: August 2016

We evaluated the effectiveness of Kuntai Capsule (KTC) for treating endometriosis using rat model and investigated its preliminary mechanism of action involved. SD rats were implanted with endometrial tissues and treated with KTC for three weeks. Then, laparotomy was performed to examine volume changes of the autografts. The serum levels of TNF‐α, IL‐6, COX‐2, E2, and P4 were measured through ELISA. TUNEL was performed to analyze the apoptosis on ectopic endometrium. Protein levels of caspases 8, 9, and 3 and cytochrome c in the ectopic and eutopic endometrium were measured by western blotting. Results showed that KTC significantly decreased the volumes of ectopic endometrium. The level of TNF‐α increased and E2 decreased in the KTC treatment groups. TUNEL and western blot assay showed that KTC could induce apoptosis of endometriotic tissues, accompanied with the increased protein expression of caspases 8 and 9, activated caspase‐3, and cytochrome c in a dose‐dependent manner. However, these protein expression profiles were not affected in eutopic endometrium. Our findings suggest that KTC could inhibit the growth of ectopic endometrial tissue through upregulating the level of TNF‐α and its downstream signaling, including caspases and cytochrome c.
Comparison of the Current Diagnostic Criterion of HbA1c with Fasting and 2-Hour Plasma Glucose Concentration
Authors: Karnchanasorn Rudruidee , Huang Jean , Ou Horng-Yih , Feng Wei , Chuang Lee-Ming , Chiu Ken C. , Samoa Raynald
Published: August 2016

To determine the effectiveness of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) ≥ 6.5% in diagnosing diabetes compared to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) ≥ 126 mg/dL and 2-hour plasma glucose (2hPG) ≥ 200 mg/dL in a previously undiagnosed diabetic cohort, we included 5,764 adult subjects without established diabetes for whom HbA1c, FPG, 2hPG, and BMI measurements were collected. Compared to the FPG criterion, the sensitivity of HbA1c ≥ 6.5% was only 43.3% (106 subjects). Compared to the 2hPG criterion, the sensitivity of HbA1c ≥ 6.5% was only 28.1% (110 subjects). Patients who were diabetic using 2hPG criterion but had HbA1c < 6.5% were more likely to be older (64±15versus60±15years old,P=0.01, mean ± STD), female (53.2% versus 38.2%,P=0.008), leaner (29.7±6.1versus33.0±6.6 kg/m2,P=0.000005), and less likely to be current smokers (18.1% versus 29.1%,P=0.02) as compared to those with HbA1c ≥ 6.5%. The diagnostic agreement in the clinical setting revealed the current HbA1c ≥ 6.5% is less likely to detect diabetes than those defined by FPG and 2hPG. HbA1c ≥ 6.5% detects less than 50% of diabetic patients defined by FPG and less than 30% of diabetic patients defined by 2hPG. When the diagnosis of diabetes is in doubt by HbA1c, FPG and/or 2hPG should be obtained.
Development of Testing Platform and Comparison Studies for Wood Nondestructive Testing
Authors: Li Jian , Fang Yiming , Tang Jiyong , Feng Hailin , Lou Xiongwei
Published: August 2016

Stress wave based techniques have been developed for evaluating the quality of the wooden materials nondestructively. However the existing techniques have some shortcomings due to the significant variation of the wood properties and are now in need of updating. There are also stress wave based instruments which have been widely used for nondestructive testing of wood. But most of them are inflexible and unsuitable for the tentative studies. This paper proposed and implemented a wood nondestructive testing platform based on NI virtual instrument. Three wood nondestructive testing methods, including peak time interval measurement, cross-correlation, and spectrum analysis, were also tested on this platform with serious decay sample, early decay sample, and defect-free sample. The results show that new methods can be verified easily and the researches of wood nondestructive testing will be accelerated with the designed platform.
A Comparison of Surgical Invasions for Spinal Nerve Ligation with or without Paraspinal Muscle Removal in a Rat Neuropathic Pain Model
Authors: Huang Yi-Gang , Zhang Qing , Wu Hao , Zhang Chang-Qing
Published: August 2016

L5 spinal nerve ligation (SNL) in rats is one of the most popular models for studying neuropathic pain because of its high reproducibility. During the surgery, a part of the L5 paraspinal muscle is usually removed, which produces extra trauma and may potentially affect the physiological processes involved in neuropathic pain. To reduce the surgical trauma, the paraspinal muscle retraction was developed for exposure of the spinal nerve. The current study was aimed at comparing the surgical invasions between the L5 SNL models with paraspinal muscle removal or retraction. The results showed that both methods induced similar neuropathic pain behavior. However, the paraspinal muscle retraction group exhibited an average of 2.7 mg less blood loss than the muscle removal group. This group also showed a significantly lower increase in serum myoglobin and creatine phosphokinase levels on postoperative days 1 and 2, as well as a lower increase in interleukin-1βand interleukin-6 levels on postoperative day 1. The paraspinal muscle maintained normal morphological features following paraspinal muscle retraction. Our results indicate that the SNL rat model with paraspinal muscle retraction is a reliable physiological model that is reproducible, readily available, and less invasive than the model with muscle removal.
Maximality Theorems on the Sum of Two Maximal Monotone Operators and Application to Variational Inequality Problems
Authors: Asfaw Teffera M.
Published: August 2016

LetXbe a real locally uniformly convex reflexive Banach space with locally uniformly convex dual spaceX⁎. LetT:X⊇D(T)→2X⁎andA:X⊇D(A)→2X⁎be maximal monotone operators. The maximality of the sum of two maximal monotone operators has been an open problem for many years. In this paper, new maximality theorems are proved forT+Aunder weaker sufficient conditions. These theorems improved the well-known maximality results of Rockafellar who used conditionD(T)∘∩D(A)≠∅and Browder and Hess who used the quasiboundedness ofTand condition0∈D(T)∩D(A). In particular, the maximality ofT+∂ϕis proved provided thatD(T)∘∩D(ϕ)≠∅, whereϕ:X→(-∞,∞]is a proper, convex, and lower semicontinuous function. Consequently, an existence theorem is proved addressing solvability of evolution type variational inequality problem for pseudomonotone perturbation of maximal monotone operator.
Chronic Glucocorticoid-Rich Milieu and Liver Dysfunction
Authors: Villagarcía Hernán Gonzalo , Sabugo Vanesa , Castro María Cecilia , Schinella Guillermo , Castrogiovanni Daniel , Spinedi Eduardo , Massa María Laura , Francini Flavio
Published: August 2016

We investigated the impact of chronic hypercorticosteronemia (due to neonatal monosodium L-glutamate, MSG, and treatment) on liver oxidative stress (OS), inflammation, and carbohydrate/lipid metabolism in adult male rats. We evaluated the peripheral concentrations of several metabolic and OS markers and insulin resistance indexes. In liver we assessed (a) OS (GSH and protein carbonyl groups) and inflammatory (IL-1b,TNFa, andPAI-1) biomarkers and (b) carbohydrate and lipid metabolisms. MSG rats displayed degenerated optic nerves, hypophagia, low body and liver weights, and enlarged adipose tissue mass; higher peripheral levels of glucose, triglycerides, insulin, uric acid, leptin, corticosterone, transaminases and TBARS, and peripheral and liver insulin resistance; elevated liver OS, inflammation markers, and glucokinase (mRNA/activity) and fructokinase (mRNA). Additionally, MSG liver phosphofructokinase-2, glucose-6-phosphatase (mRNA and activity) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase,Chrebp,Srebp1c, fatty acid synthase, and glycerol-3-phosphate (mRNAs) were increased. In conclusion adult MSG rats developed an insulin-resistant state and increased OS and serious hepatic dysfunction characterized by inflammation and metabolic signs suggesting increased lipogenesis. These features, shared by both metabolic and Cushing’s syndrome human phenotypes, support that a chronic glucocorticoid-rich endogenous environment mainly impacts on hepatic glucose cycle, displacing local metabolism to lipogenesis. Whether correcting the glucocorticoid-rich environment ameliorates such dysfunctions requires further investigation.
Predictive Significance of Serum Level of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Gastric Cancer Patients
Authors: Wang Lu , Chang Yanli , Xu Jianjun , Zhang Qingyun
Published: August 2016

The study aims to evaluate serum VEGF expression in gastric cancer patients and investigate its relationship with clinicopathological parameters. We also examined the serum VEGF levels in GC patients having received surgery or chemotherapy treatment to assess its predictive and prognostic value as a biomarker. We enrolled 154 GC patients having not received neoadjuvant treatment and 100 healthy controls. In the treatment groups, 13 surgery patients and 15 chemotherapy patients were investigated. 42 chemotherapy patients with different chemotherapy efficacy were recruited as well. The serum VEGF was examined by ELISA. Serum VEGF level was remarkably upregulated in GC group compared with healthy group (p<0.001). The serum VEGF level of GC group was significantly correlated with tumor cells differentiation degree, clinical stages, tumor infiltration depth, lymph node metastasis, and tumor size. The serum VEGF level of the 1 to 3 days after operation group was much lower than that of the preoperative group (p<0.001) and the 7 days after operation group (p<0.001). By contrast, serum VEGF level was decreased significantly after chemotherapy (p=0.001). Importantly, serum VEGF level in PD+SD group was significantly higher compared to the PR+CR group (p=0.011). Therefore, serum VEGF was a valuable biomarker in clinically monitoring the condition of GC patients.
Preparation ofAntheraea pernyiSilk Fibroin Microparticles through a Facile Electrospinning Method
Authors: Li Xiufang , Zhang Qiang , Feng Yanfei , Yan Shuqin , Qu Jing , You Renchuan
Published: August 2016

The goal of this study was to fabricateAntheraea pernyisilk fibroin (ASF) microparticles using electrospinning under mild processing conditions. To improve processability of the ASF solution, poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) was used to regulate viscosity of ASF solution for electrospinning. It was found that the blend of ASF with PEO could form a bead-on-string structure with well spherical particles. Furthermore, aqueous ethanol and ultrasonic treatments could disrupt the nanofibrillar string structure between particles and ultimately produced water-insoluble ASF particles with submicron scale. Cell viability studies indicated that the ASF microparticles were nontoxic to EA926 cells. Moreover, fluorescent images based on FITC labeling showed that the ASF microparticles were easily uptaken by the cells. Aqueous-based electrospinning provides a potentially useful option for the fabrication of ASF microparticles based on this unique fibrous protein.
Preparation of Highly Ordered Fiber Micropatterns by Assembly of Electrospun Nanofiber Segments
Authors: Liu Jun , Wang Hua , Chang Meng-Jie , Du Hui-Ling
Published: August 2016

A novel method for fabricating highly ordered fiber micropatterns by assembly of electrospun nanofiber segments was described. Polymethylglutarimide (PMGI) fiber segments with an average length of 3 µm were prepared by combining electrospinning with subsequent sonication treatment. Afterwards, the fiber segments dispersed in water were assembled on Norland optical adhesive (NOA) templates with different microstructural sizes and shapes, allowing formation of spatially uniform nanofibrous micropatterns on flat glass substrate. Regular fiber microarrays were produced when the feature size of NOA template was larger than 30 µm for square and strip geometry. In each microdot, the fiber segments had several layer thicknesses. This new method, which can prepare fiber micropatterns for different materials and microstructures, is suitable for functional device and cell biology applications.
Rolling Bearing Degradation State Identification Based on LPP Optimized by GA
Authors: Yu He , Li Hong-ru , Tian Zai-ke , Wang Wei-guo
Published: August 2016

In view of the problem that the actual degradation status of rolling bearing has a poor distinguishing characteristic and strong fuzziness, a rolling bearing degradation state identification method based on multidomain feature fusion and dimension reduction of manifold learning combined with GG clustering is proposed. Firstly, the rolling bearing all-life data is preprocessed by local characteristic-scale decomposition (LCD) and six typical features including relative energy spectrum entropy (LREE), relative singular spectrum entropy (LRSE), two-element multiscale entropy (TMSE), standard deviation (STD), RMS, and root-square amplitude (XR) are extracted and compose the original multidomain feature set. And then, locally preserving projection (LPP) is utilized to reduce dimension of original fusion feature set and genetic algorithm is applied to optimize the process of feature fusion. Finally, fuzzy recognition of rolling bearing degradation state is carried out by GG clustering and the principle of maximum membership degree and excellent performance of the proposed method is validated by comparing the recognition accuracy of LPP and GA-LPP.
The Relationship of Metabolic Syndrome Traits with Beta-Cell Function and Insulin Sensitivity by Oral Minimal Model Assessment in South Asian and European Families Residing in the Netherlands
Authors: Geragotou Thekla , Jainandunsing Sjaam , Özcan Behiye , de Rooij Felix W. M. , Kokkinos Alexander , Tentolouris Nicholas , Sijbrands Eric J. G.
Published: August 2016

Background. There are different metabolic syndrome traits among patients with different ethnicities.Methods. We investigated this by studying 44 South Asians and 54 Europeans and classified them in three groups according to the occurrence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). Insulin sensitivity index (ISI), static, dynamic, and total beta-cell responsivity indices (Φ), and disposition indices (DIs) were calculated with the use of oral minimal model (OMM).Results. In both ethnicities, ISI was lower in the subgroup with MetS and T2D as compared to the subgroup without MetS nor T2D (P<0.004). South Asians without MetS were more insulin resistant than Europeans without MetS (P=0.033). In the South Asians, ISI, dynamic DI, and static DI were associated significantly (P<0.006) with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides. In the Europeans, ISI was associated with waist-to-hip ratio (P=0.005) and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (P<0.005), while static DI was related to the systolic blood pressure (P=0.005).Conclusions. MetS was linked with insulin resistance and reduced capacity to handle glucose regardless of ethnicity. ISI and DIs were associated with lipid traits in South Asians and with blood pressure in Europeans suggesting that insulin resistance enhances different metabolic syndrome traits among different ethnicities.