bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biosynthesis of milk fat, protein, and lactose: roles of transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation
Authors: Osorio Johan S. , Lohakare Jayant , Bionaz Massimo
Published: January 2016

The demand for high-quality milk is increasing worldwide. The efficiency of milk synthesis can be improved by taking advantage of the accumulated knowledge of the transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation of genes coding for proteins involved in the synthesis of fat, protein, and lactose in the mammary gland. Research in this area is relatively new, but data accumulated in the last 10 years provide a relatively clear picture. Milk fat synthesis appears to be regulated, at least in bovines, by an interactive network between SREBP1, PPARγ, and LXRα, with a potential role for other transcription factors, such as Spot14, ChREBP, and Sp1. Milk protein synthesis is highly regulated by insulin, amino acids, and amino acid transporters via transcriptional and posttranscriptional routes, with the insulin-mTOR pathway playing a central role. The transcriptional regulation of lactose synthesis is still poorly understood, but it is clear that glucose transporters play an important role. They can also cooperatively interact with amino acid transporters and the mTOR pathway. Recent data indicate the possibility of nutrigenomic interventions to increase milk fat synthesis by feeding long-chain fatty acids and milk protein synthesis by feeding amino acids. We propose a transcriptional network model to account for all available findings. This model encompasses a complex network of proteins that control milk synthesis with a cross talk between milk fat, protein, and lactose regulation, with mTOR functioning as a central hub.
Near-Infrared Spectroscopic Screening for Bladder Disease in Africa: Training Rural Clinic Staff to Collect Data of Diagnostic Quality
Authors: Stothers Lynn , Macnab Andrew , Mutabazi Sharif , Mukisa Ronald , Molavi Behnam , Shadgan Babak
Published: January 2016

Background. While near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has recognized relevance for developing countries, biomedical applications are rare. This reflects the cost and complexity of NIRS and the convention of comprehensive training for accurate data collection. In an international initiative using transcutaneous NIRS to screen for bladder disease in Africa, we evaluated if interactive training enabled clinic staff to collect data accurately.Methods. Workshop training in a Ugandan medical clinic on NIRS monitoring theory; bladder physiology and chromophore changes occurring with disease; device orientation; device positioning over the bladder, monitoring subjects during voiding; and saving/uploading data. Participation in patient screening followed with observation, assistance, and then data collection. Evaluation comprised conduct of serial independent screenings with analysis if saved files were of diagnostic quality.Results. 10 individuals attended 1-hour workshops and then 0.5–3.0 hours of screening. Five then felt able to conduct screening independently and all collected data were of diagnostic quality (>5 consecutive patients); all had participated in screening for >1.5 hours (6+ subjects); less participation allowed competent assistance but not consistent adherence to the monitoring protocol.Conclusion. A simplified NIRS system, small-group theory/orientation workshops, and >I.5 hours of 1 : 1 training during screening enabled clinic staff in Africa to collect accurate NIRS data.
Shafting Alignment Computing Method of New Multibearing Rotor System under Specific Installation Requirement
Authors: Chen Qian , Yuan Qi , Lei Ming , Wang Mengyao
Published: January 2016

The shafting of large steam turbine generator set is composed of several rotors which are connected by couplings. The computing method of shafting with different structure under specific installation requirement is studied in this paper. Based on three-moment equation, shafting alignment mathematical model is established. The computing method of bearing elevations and loads under corresponding installation requirements, where bending moment of each coupling is zero and there exist preset sag and gap in some couplings, is proposed, respectively. Bearing elevations and loads of shafting with different structure under specific installation requirement are calculated; calculation results are compared with installation data measured on site which verifies the validity and accuracy of the proposed shafting alignment computing method. The above work provides a reliable approach to analyze shafting alignment and could guide installation on site.
Nonintrusive Method Based on Neural Networks for Video Quality of Experience Assessment
Authors: Botia Valderrama Diego José Luis , Gaviria Gómez Natalia
Published: January 2016

The measurement and evaluation of the QoE (Quality of Experience) have become one of the main focuses in the telecommunications to provide services with the expected quality for their users. However, factors like the network parameters and codification can affect the quality of video, limiting the correlation between the objective and subjective metrics. The above increases the complexity to evaluate the real quality of video perceived by users. In this paper, a model based on artificial neural networks such as BPNNs (Backpropagation Neural Networks) and the RNNs (Random Neural Networks) is applied to evaluate the subjective quality metrics MOS (Mean Opinion Score) and the PSNR (Peak Signal Noise Ratio), SSIM (Structural Similarity Index Metric), VQM (Video Quality Metric), and QIBF (Quality Index Based Frame). The proposed model allows establishing the QoS (Quality of Service) based in the strategyDiffserv. The metrics were analyzed through Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation coefficients, RMSE (Root Mean Square Error), and outliers rate. Correlation values greater than 90% were obtained for all the evaluated metrics.
Population Dynamics of Patients with Bacterial Resistance in Hospital Environment
Authors: Qu Leilei , Pan Qiuhui , Gao Xubin , He Mingfeng
Published: January 2016

During the past decades, the increase of antibiotic resistance has become a major concern worldwide. The researchers found that superbugs with new type of resistance genes (NDM-1) have two aspects of transmission characteristics; the first is that the antibiotic resistance genes can horizontally transfer among bacteria, and the other is that the superbugs can spread between humans through direct contact. Based on these two transmission mechanisms, we study the dynamics of population in hospital environment where superbugs exist. In this paper, we build three mathematic models to illustrate the dynamics of patients with bacterial resistance in hospital environment. The models are analyzed using stability theory of differential equations. Positive equilibrium points of the system are investigated and their stability analysis is carried out. Moreover, the numerical simulation of the proposed model is also performed which supports the theoretical findings.
Medical Device-AssociatedCandidaInfections in a Rural Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital of India
Authors: Deorukhkar Sachin C. , Saini Santosh
Published: January 2016

Health care associated infections (HCAIs) add incrementally to the morbidity, mortality, and cost expected of the patient’s underlying diseases alone. Approximately, about half all cases of HCAIs are associated with medical devices. AsCandidamedical device-associated infection is highly drug resistant and can lead to serious life-threatening complications, there is a need of continuous surveillance of these infections to initiate preventive and corrective measures. The present study was conducted at a rural tertiary care hospital of India with an aim to evaluate the rate of medical device-associatedCandidainfections. Three commonly encountered medical device-associated infections (MDAI), catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CA-UTI), intravascular catheter-related blood stream infections (CR-BSI), and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), were targeted. The overall rate of MDAI in our hospital was 2.1 per 1000 device days. The rate ofCandidarelated CA-UTI and CR-BSI was noted as 1.0 and 0.3, respectively. Untiring efforts taken by team members of Hospital Acquired Infection Control Committee along with maintenance of meticulous hygiene of the hospital and wards may explain the low MDAI rates in our institute. The present surveillance helped us for systematic generation of institutional data regarding MDAI with special reference to role ofCandidaspp.
Predominance of Abdominal Visceral Adipose Tissue Reflects the Presence of Aortic Valve Calcification
Authors: Oikawa Masayoshi , Owada Takashi , Yamauchi Hiroyuki , Misaka Tomofumi , Machii Hirofumi , Yamaki Takayoshi , Sugimoto Koichi , Kunii Hiroyuki , Nakazato Kazuhiko , Suzuki Hitoshi , Saitoh Shu-ichi , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: January 2016

Background. Aortic valve calcification (AVC) is a common feature of aging and is related to coronary artery disease. Although abdominal visceral adipose tissue (VAT) plays fundamental roles in coronary artery disease, the relationship between abdominal VAT and AVC is not fully understood.Methods. We investigated 259 patients who underwent cardiac and abdominal computed tomography (CT). AVC was defined as calcified lesion on the aortic valve by CT. %abdominal VAT was calculated as abdominal VAT area/total adipose tissue area.Results. AVC was detected in 75 patients, and these patients showed higher %abdominal VAT (44% versus 38%,p<0.05) compared to those without AVC. When the cutoff value of %abdominal VAT was set at 40.9%, the area under the curve to diagnose AVC was 0.626. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that age (OR 1.120, 95% CI 1.078–1.168,p<0.01), diabetes (OR 2.587, 95% CI 1.323–5.130,p<0.01), and %abdominal VAT (OR 1.032, 95% CI 1.003–1.065,p<0.05) were independent risk factors for AVC. The net reclassification improvement value for detecting AVC was increased when %abdominal VAT was added to the model: 0.5093 (95% CI 0.2489–0.7697,p<0.01).Conclusion. We determined that predominance of VAT is associated with AVC.
Haemodialysis in the Octogenarian: More Than a Decade of Experience from a Single UK Centre
Authors: Thomas Philip , Price Anna , Baharani Jyoti
Published: January 2016

Background. To assess factors affecting survival in an octogenarian cohort commencing haemodialysis (HD) and describe outcomes associated with prolonged survival. Materials and Methods. We retrospectively analysed 11 years of data (1 January 2000–31 December 2010) from patients aged ≥ 80 years starting HD at a teaching hospital in the United Kingdom. Data was collected on patient demographics, aetiology of renal failure, indication and duration of HD, access type at first dialysis, Charlson comorbidity index score, and cause of death. Results. Data from 139 eligible patients was included for analysis (85 male, 54 female (1.54 : 1)). The mean age was 83.6±2.8 years and 90% of this cohort were Caucasian. Thirty percent (42/139) of the cohort died within 90 days of starting dialysis. For those who survived >90 days the mean (median) duration of HD was 871.8 (805) days. Long-term survival was more common in females and those who first dialysed through an AVF. Conclusions. There is a significant early mortality risk in octogenarians commencing HD. For individuals who survive beyond the initial 90 days, the majority have a good long-term survival and our results are better than previously published UK data. Long-term survival was more common in female patients and those starting HD using an AVF.
A Thermodynamic Analysis of Two Competing Mid-Sized Oxyfuel Combustion Combined Cycles
Authors: Thorbergsson Egill , Grönstedt Tomas
Published: January 2016

A comparative analysis of two mid-sized oxyfuel combustion combined cycles is performed. The two cycles are the semiclosed oxyfuel combustion combined cycle (SCOC-CC) and the Graz cycle. In addition, a reference cycle was established as the basis for the analysis of the oxyfuel combustion cycles. A parametric study was conducted where the pressure ratio and the turbine entry temperature were varied. The layout and the design of the SCOC-CC are considerably simpler than the Graz cycle while it achieves the same net efficiency as the Graz cycle. The fact that the efficiencies for the two cycles are close to identical differs from previously reported work. Earlier studies have reported around a 3% points advantage in efficiency for the Graz cycle, which is attributed to the use of a second bottoming cycle. This additional feature is omitted to make the two cycles more comparable in terms of complexity. The Graz cycle has substantially lower pressure ratio at the optimum efficiency and has much higher power density for the gas turbine than both the reference cycle and the SCOC-CC.
Evaluation of the Properties of Bituminous Concrete Prepared from Brick-Stone Mix Aggregate
Authors: Sarkar Dipankar , Pal Manish , Sarkar Ashoke K. , Mishra Umesh
Published: January 2016

The paper describes an investigation into mechanical properties of brick-stone bituminous concrete mix. The effect of brick-stone mix on various mechanical properties of the bituminous concrete such as Marshall stability, flow, Marshall Quotient (stability to flow ratio), Indirect Tensile Strength, stripping, rutting, and fatigue life of bituminous concrete overlay has been evaluated. In this study over-burnt brick aggregate (OBBA) and stone aggregate (SA) have been mixed in different ratios (by weight) such as 20 : 80, 40 : 60, 60 : 40, and 80 : 20, respectively. The laboratory results indicate that bituminous concrete, prepared by 20% brick aggregate and 80% stone aggregate, gives the highest Marshall stability. This bituminous concrete mix shows considerable improvement in various mechanical properties of the mix as compared to the other mixes.
Use of Carnosine for Oxidative Stress Reduction in Different Pathologies
Authors: Prokopieva V. D. , Yarygina E. G. , Bokhan N. A. , Ivanova S. A.
Published: January 2016

The main properties and biological effects of the antioxidant carnosine, the natural dipeptide β‐alanyl‐L‐histidine, are considered. Data on the effective use of carnosine in different pathologies are presented. Special attention is paid to issues of use of carnosine in neurologic and mental diseases, in alcoholism as well as in physiological states accompanied by activation of free‐radical processes and formation of oxidative stress.
Mechanisms of Neuroprotection by Quercetin: Counteracting Oxidative Stress and More
Authors: Costa Lucio G. , Garrick Jacqueline M. , Roquè Pamela J. , Pellacani Claudia
Published: January 2016

Increasing interest has recently focused on determining whether several natural compounds, collectively referred to as nutraceuticals, may exert neuroprotective actions in the developing, adult, and aging nervous system. Quercetin, a polyphenol widely present in nature, has received the most attention in this regard. Several studies in vitro, in experimental animals and in humans, have provided supportive evidence for neuroprotective effects of quercetin, either against neurotoxic chemicals or in various models of neuronal injury and neurodegenerative diseases. The exact mechanisms of such protective effects remain elusive, though many hypotheses have been formulated. In addition to a possible direct antioxidant effect, quercetin may also act by stimulating cellular defenses against oxidative stress. Two such pathways include the induction of Nrf2‐ARE and induction of the antioxidant/anti‐inflammatory enzyme paraoxonase 2 (PON2). In addition, quercetin has been shown to activate sirtuins (SIRT1), to induce autophagy, and to act as a phytoestrogen, all mechanisms by which quercetin may provide its neuroprotection.
Use of Modified Polysaccharide 4DryField®PH for Adhesion Prevention and Hemostasis in Gynecological Surgery: A Two-Center Observational Study by Second-Look Laparoscopy
Authors: Korell Matthias , Ziegler Nicole , De Wilde Rudy Leon
Published: January 2016

Purpose. This study evaluates both scopes of 4DryField PH, certified for adhesion prevention and hemostasis, in patients undergoing surgery for various and severe gynecological disorders.Methods. This is a two-institutional study. Adhesion prevention efficacy was evaluated using video documentation of first-look laparoscopies (FLL) and second-look laparoscopies (SLL); other patient data were analyzed retrospectively. Twenty patients with various disorders were evaluated, 4 assigned to a uterus pathology, 10 to endometriosis, and 6 to an adhesion disease group. Nine patients received 4DryField primarily for hemostasis and 11 solely for adhesion prevention. Nineteen patients had SLL after 5 to 12 weeks and one after 13 months.Results. At FLL with 4DryField, immediate hemostasis could be achieved in diffuse bleeding. At SLL, effective adhesion prevention was observed in 18 of all 20 women, with only 2 revealing major adhesions. In particular, only 1 of the 6 women with adhesion disease as predominant disorder showed major adhesions at SLL.Conclusions. Modified polysaccharide 4DryField is not only effective in diffuse bleeding. In this cohort with extensive surgery for various gynecological pathologies, 4DryField showed effective adhesion prevention as confirmed at SLL, too. Its use as premixed gel is a convenient variant for treatment of large peritoneal wounds.
The Efficacy, Safety, and Cost Benefit of Olanzapine versus Aprepitant in Highly Emetogenic Chemotherapy: A Pilot Study from South India
Authors: Babu Govind , Saldanha Smitha Carol , Kuntegowdanahalli Chinnagiriyappa Lakshmaiah , Jacob Linu Abraham , Mallekavu Suresh Babu , Dasappa Loknatha , Kiran Pretesh Rohan , Sreevatsa Aparna , Appachu Sandhya , Unnikrishnan Vineetha , Arroju Venugopal
Published: January 2016

Background. The efficacy, safety, and cost benefit of olanzapine (OLN) when compared to aprepitant (APR) in the prevention of chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in patients receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC) were evaluated. Methods. A prospective pilot study was done in chemotherapy-naive patients receiving HEC to compare OLN versus APR along with palonosetron and dexamethasone. 100 patients consented to the protocol and were randomized and evaluated for Complete Response (CR) (no emesis, no rescue). Results. CR was 86% for the acute period, 86% for the delayed period, and 80% for the overall period in 50 patients receiving the APD regimen. CR was 84% for the acute period, 88% for the delayed period, and 78% for the overall period for 50 patients receiving the OPD regimen. Patients without nausea were APD: 88% acute, 84% delayed, and 84% overall, and OPD: 84% acute, 88% delayed, and 84% overall. There were no significant grade 3 or 4 toxicities. OPD was comparable to APD in the control of CINV. Conclusion. In this study, there was no significant difference between olanzapine and aprepitant in preventing CINV with highly emetogenic chemotherapy. Olanzapine may thus be used as a potential, safe, and cost beneficial alternative to prevent nausea and vomiting in HEC.
Effects of Curing Period of Livestock Droppings on the Growth and Yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentusL.) Varieties
Authors: Abdulmaliq S. Y. , Abayomi Y. A. , Aduloju M. O. , Olugbemi O.
Published: January 2016

A field study was carried out across two cropping seasons (2010 and 2011) to explore the effects of curing periods of cow dung and poultry droppings used in soil amendment on the performance of two okra (Abelmoschus esculentusL.) varieties: NHAe 47-3 and LD 88-1. The effects of cow dung and poultry droppings cured for 3, 6, and 9 weeks were compared to that of NPK fertilizer (100 kg N ha−1and 60 kg ha−1each of P2O5and K2O) and a control (no amendment). The application of organic amendment cured for 3 to 6 weeks enhanced the growth and yield of okra when compared with inorganic fertilizer or the unamended soil across the two cropping seasons. Based on this outcome, the use of adequate quantity of livestock droppings cured for 3–6 weeks, in case of poultry dropping, and for 6 weeks, in case of cow dung, is recommended as an alternative to inorganic fertilizer. The variety NHAe 47-4 was also demonstrated to give better yield (1.73 and 2.18 t ha−1) than LD 88-1 (1.63 and 1.80 t ha−1) in the years 2010 and 2011, respectively.
A Review of the Detection Methods for Climate Regime Shifts
Authors: Liu Qunqun , Wan Shiquan , Gu Bin
Published: January 2016

An abrupt climate change means that the climate system shifts from a steady state to another steady state. Study on the phenomenon and theory of the abrupt climate change is a new research field of modern climatology, and it is of great significance for the prediction of future climate change. The climate regime shift is one of the most common forms of abrupt climate change, which mainly refers to the statistical significant changes on the variable of climate system at one time scale. These detection methods can be roughly divided into five categories based on different types of abrupt changes, namely, abrupt mean value change, abrupt variance change, abrupt frequency change, abrupt probability density change, and the multivariable analysis. The main research progress of abrupt climate change detection methods is reviewed. What is more, some actual applications of those methods in observational data are provided. With the development of nonlinear science, many new methods have been presented for detecting an abrupt dynamic change in recent years, which is useful supplement for the abrupt change detection methods.
Prenatal and Childhood Growth, Chemerin Concentrations, and Metabolic Health in Adult Life
Authors: Eriksson Johan G. , Venojärvi Mika , Osmond Clive
Published: January 2016

Several noncommunicable diseases have their origins in early developmental phases. One factor possibly explaining the association between early growth and later health could be adipocyte function. The objective of this study was to assess the association between the adipocytokine chemerin and early growth and later health. 1074 participants from Helsinki Birth Cohort Study born 1934–1944 with information on prenatal and childhood growth participated. Metabolic outcomes include glucose tolerance, adiposity, and chemerin concentration. Mean chemerin concentrations were 5.0 ng/mL higher in women than in men (95% CI 2.7 to 7.2,p<0.001). The strongest correlate of chemerin concentration was adult waist circumference and body fat percentage (r=0.22,p<0.001andr=0.21,p<0.001, resp.). After adjustment for body fat percentage, chemerin concentration was 5.4 ng/mL lower in subjects with type 2 diabetes than in those with normal glucose tolerance (−0.2 to 10.9,p=0.06). It was 3.0 ng/mL higher in those with metabolic syndrome than in those without (0.6 to 5.3,p=0.01). No measure of early growth was associated with chemerin concentration. Our findings do not support a role for chemerin in linking early growth with later metabolic health.
Effect of miR-146a/bFGF/PEG-PEI Nanoparticles on Inflammation Response and Tissue Regeneration of Human Dental Pulp Cells
Authors: Liu Lu , Shu Shan , Cheung Gary Shunpan , Wei Xi
Published: January 2016

Introduction. Inflammation in dental pulp cells (DPCs) initiated by Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) results in dental pulp necrosis. So far, whether there is a common system regulating inflammation response and tissue regeneration remains unknown. miR-146a is closely related to inflammation. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is an important regulator for differentiation.Methods. To explore the effect of miR-146a/bFGF on inflammation and tissue regeneration, polyethylene glycol-polyethyleneimine (PEG-PEI) was synthesized, and physical characteristics were analyzed by dynamic light scattering and gel retardation analysis. Cell absorption, transfection efficiency, and cytotoxicity were assessed. Alginate gel was combined with miR-146a/PEG-PEI nanoparticles and bFGF. Drug release ratio was measured by ultraviolet spectrophotography. Proliferation and odontogenic differentiation of DPCs with 1 μg/mL LPS treatment were determined.Results. PEG-PEI prepared at N/P 2 showed complete gel retardation and smallest particle size and zeta potential. Transfection efficiency of PEG-PEI was higher than lipo2000. Cell viability decreased as N/P ratio increased. Drug release rate amounted to 70% at the first 12 h and then maintained slow release afterwards. Proliferation and differentiation decreased in DPCs with LPS treatment, whereas they increased in miR-146a/bFGF gel group.Conclusions. PEG-PEI is a promising vector for gene therapy. miR-146a and bFGF play critical roles in inflammation response and tissue regeneration of DPCs.
A Posteriorly Displaced Distal Metaphyseal Clavicular Fracture (Type IV AC Joint Dislocation-Like) in Children: A Case Report and Literature Review Study
Authors: Kotb Ahmed , Yong Taylor , Abdelgawad Amr
Published: January 2016

Fractures of the lateral end of the clavicle are common in pediatric patients; most of these fractures occur at the physeal level representing Salter Harris injuries. The vast majority of fractures of the lateral end of the clavicle are managed nonoperatively. In this report, we describe a unique type of fracture of the distal end of the clavicle in the pediatric patients in which the fracture occurs in the metaphyseal lateral clavicle with the proximal edge of the fracture displaced posteriorly through the trapezius muscle causing obvious deformity. It is similar in pathology to type IV AC joint dislocation. In this study we report this injury in eleven-year-old boy. Literature review showed that similar injuries were described before three times (two of them in pediatric patients). Due to the significant clinical deformity of this category with entrapment of the bone through the trapezius muscle, reduction (open or closed) of the fracture is the recommended treatment.
Donor Specific Anti-HLA Antibody and Risk of Graft Failure in Haploidentical Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Kongtim Piyanuch , Cao Kai , Ciurea Stefan O.
Published: January 2016

Outcomes of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) using HLA-half matched related donors (haploidentical) have recently improved due to better control of alloreactive reactions in both graft-versus-host and host-versus-graft directions. The recognition of the role of humoral rejection in the development of primary graft failure in this setting has broadened our understanding about causes of engraftment failure in these patients, helped us better select donors for patients in need of AHSCT, and developed rational therapeutic measures for HLA sensitized patients to prevent this unfortunate event, which is usually associated with a very high mortality rate. With these recent advances the rate of graft failure in haploidentical transplantation has decreased to less than 5%.
Method Based on theβ-Lactamase PenPC Fluorescent Labeled forβ-Lactam Antibiotic Quantification in Human Plasma
Authors: Andresen Max , Wong Kwok-Yin , Leung Yun-Chung , Wong Wai-Ting , Chan Pak-Ho , Andresen-Vasquez Max , Alegria Leyla , Silva Camila , Tapia Pablo , Downey Patricio , Soto Dagoberto
Published: January 2016

Recently, Wong et al. have successfully developed a fluorescent biosensor based on the PenPCβ-lactamase which changes its intrinsic fluorescence in presence ofβ-lactam antibiotics (BLAs). Here, we studied systematically this correlation among the fluorescence change of the biosensor and the concentration of different BLAs aimed at developing a novel method for estimating the concentration of a wide range of BLAs. This method showed high precision and specificity and very low interference from clinically relevant samples. We were able to monitor the pharmacokinetics of meropenem in healthy volunteers as well as in an ill animal model too, indicating that the implemented method could be suitable for clinical practice.
Therapeutic Options of Chondrodermatitis Nodularis Helicis
Authors: Juul Nielsen Lea , Holkmann Olsen Caroline , Lock-Andersen Jørgen
Published: January 2016

Chondrodermatitis Nodularis Helicis is a benign inflammatory process affecting the skin and cartilage of the ear. It typically presents as a painful nodule surrounded by an area of erythema and often prevents the patient from sleeping on the affected side. Many treatments have been described in the literature, but the condition is prone to recurrence. A literature search was performed in order to identify the best possible treatment. Fifty-eight articles were included, describing and investigating nonsurgical as well as surgical treatment modalities. Large prospective, controlled, and randomised long-term studies are lacking, but based on the available literature, we recommend starting with a conservative approach using decompression devices. Simple surgical procedures should only be used if conservative measures fail.
Corneal Dendritic Cell Density Is Associated with Subbasal Nerve Plexus Features, Ocular Surface Disease Index, and Serum Vitamin D in Evaporative Dry Eye Disease
Authors: Shetty Rohit , Sethu Swaminathan , Deshmukh Rashmi , Deshpande Kalyani , Ghosh Arkasubhra , Agrawal Aarti , Shroff Rushad
Published: January 2016

Dry eye disease (DED) has evolved into a major public health concern with ocular discomfort and pain being responsible for significant morbidity associated with DED. However, the etiopathological factors contributing to ocular pain associated with DED are not well understood. The current IVCM based study investigated the association between corneal dendritic cell density (DCD), corneal subbasal nerve plexus (SBNP) features, and serum vitamin D and symptoms of evaporative dry eye (EDE). The study included age and sex matched 52 EDE patients and 43 heathy controls. A significant increase in the OSDI scores (discomfort subscale) was observed between EDE (median, 20.8) and control (median, 4.2) cohorts(P<0.001). Similarly, an increase in DCD was observed between EDE (median, 48.1 cells/mm2) patients and controls (median, 5.6 cells/mm2)(P<0.001). A significant decrease in SBNP features (corneal nerve fiber length, fiber density, fiber width, total branch density, nerve branch density, and fiber area) was observed in EDE patients with OSDI score >23(P<0.05). A positive correlation was observed between DCD and OSDI discomfort subscale (r=0.348;P<0.0003) and SBNP features. An inverse correlation was observed between vitamin D and OSDI scores (r=-0.332;P=0.0095) and DCD with dendritic processes (r=-0.322;P=0.0122). The findings implicate DCD, SBNP features, and vitamin D with EDE symptoms.
Epidemiology of Acute Symptomatic Seizures among Adult Medical Admissions
Authors: Nwani Paul Osemeke , Nwosu Maduaburochukwu Cosmas , Nwosu Monica Nonyelum
Published: January 2016

Acute symptomatic seizures are seizures occurring in close temporal relationship with an acute central nervous system (CNS) insult. The objective of the study was to determine the frequency of presentation and etiological risk factors of acute symptomatic seizures among adult medical admissions. It was a two-year retrospective study of the medical files of adults patients admitted with acute symptomatic seizures as the first presenting event. There were 94 cases of acute symptomatic seizures accounting for 5.2% (95% CI: 4.17–6.23) of the 1,802 medical admissions during the period under review. There were 49 (52.1%) males and 45 (47.9%) females aged between 18 years and 84 years. The etiological risk factors of acute symptomatic seizures were infections in 36.2% (n=34) of cases, stroke in 29.8% (n=28), metabolic in 12.8% (n=12), toxic in 10.6% (n=10), and other causes in 10.6% (n=10). Infective causes were more among those below fifty years while stroke was more in those aged fifty years and above. CNS infections and stroke were the prominent causes of acute symptomatic seizures. This is an evidence of the “double tragedy” facing developing countries, the unresolved threat of infectious diseases on one hand and the increasing impact of noncommunicable diseases on the other one.
Understanding the Crystallinity Indices Behavior of Burned Bones and Teeth by ATR-IR and XRD in the Presence of Bioapatite Mixed with Other Phosphate and Carbonate Phases
Authors: Piga Giampaolo , Gonçalves David , Thompson T. J. U. , Brunetti Antonio , Malgosa Assumpció , Enzo Stefano
Published: January 2016

We have critically investigated the ATR-IR spectroscopy data behavior of burned human teeth as opposed to the generally observed behavior in human bones that were subjected to heat treatment, whether deliberate or accidental. It is shown that the deterioration of the crystallinity index (CI) behavior sometimes observed in bones subjected to high temperature appears to be of higher frequency in the case of bioapatite from teeth. This occurs because the formation of theβ-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) phase, otherwise known aswhitlockite, clearly ascertained by the X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns collected on the same powdered specimens investigated by ATR-IR. These results point to the need of combining more than one physicochemical technique even if apparently well suitable, in order to verify whether the assumed conditions assessed by spectroscopy are fully maintained in the specimens after temperature and/or mechanical processing.
Rituximab Downregulates Gene Expression Associated with Cell Proliferation, Survival, and Proteolysis in the Peripheral Blood from Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients: A Link between High Baseline Autophagy-Related ULK1 Expression and Improved Pain Control
Authors: Tchetina Elena V. , Pivanova Anastasya N. , Markova Galina A. , Lukina Galina V. , Aleksandrova Elena N. , Aleksankin Andrey P. , Makarov Sergey A. , Kuzin Aleksandr N.
Published: January 2016

Objective. To clarify molecular mechanisms for the response to rituximab in a longitudinal study. Methods. Peripheral blood from 16 RA patients treated with rituximab for a single treatment course and 26 healthy controls, blood and knee articular cartilages from 18 patients with long-standing RA, and cartilages from 14 healthy subjects were examined. Clinical response was assessed using ESR, ACPA, CRP, RF, DAS28 levels, CD19+ B-cell counts, bone erosion, and joint space narrowing scores. Protein expression in PBMCs was quantified using ELISA. Gene expression was performed with quantitative real-time PCR. Results. A decrease (p<0.05) in DAS28, ESR, and CRP values after rituximab treatment was associated with the downregulation of MTOR, p21, caspase 3, ULK1, TNFα, IL-1β, and cathepsin K gene expression in the peripheral blood to levels found in healthy subjects. MMP-9 expression remained significantly higher compared to controls although decreased (p<0.05) versus baseline. A negative correlation between baseline ULK1 gene expression and the number of tender joints at the end of follow-up was observed. Conclusions. The response to rituximab was associated with decreased MTOR, p21, caspase 3, ULK1, TNFα, IL-1β, and cathepsin K gene expression compared to healthy subjects. Residual increased expression in MMP-9, IFNα, and COX2 might account for remaining inflammation and pain. High baseline ULK1 gene expression indicates a good response in respect to pain.
Chronic Encapsulated Expanding Thalamic Hematoma Associated with Obstructive Hydrocephalus following Radiosurgery for a Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Takei Jun , Tanaka Toshihide , Yamamoto Yohei , Teshigawara Akihiko , Tochigi Satoru , Hasegawa Yuzuru , Murayama Yuichi
Published: January 2016

Chronic encapsulated intracerebral hematoma is a unique type of intracerebral hematoma accompanied by a capsule that is abundant in fragile microvasculature occasionally causing delayed regrowth. A 37-year-old man who had undergone radiosurgery for an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) causing intracerebral hematoma in the left parietal lobe presented with headache, vomiting, and progressive truncal ataxia due to a cystic lesion that had been noted in the left thalamus, leading to progressive obstructive hydrocephalus. He underwent left frontal craniotomy via a transsylvian fissure approach, and the serous hematoma was aspirated. The hematoma capsule was easy to drain and was partially removed. Pathological findings demonstrated angiomatous fibroblastic granulation tissue with extensive macrophage invasion. The concentration of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was high in the hematoma (12012 pg/mL). The etiology and pathogenesis of encapsulated hematoma are unclear, but the gross appearance and pathological findings are similar to those of chronic subdural hematoma. Based on the high concentration of VEGF in the hematoma, expansion of the encapsulated hematoma might have been caused by the promotion of vascular permeability of newly formed microvasculature in the capsule.
DNA Microspheres Coated with Bioavailable Polymer as an Efficient Gene Expression Agent in Yeasts
Authors: Reytblat Irena , Lipovsky Anat , Gedanken Aharon
Published: January 2016

Gene delivery is one of the steps necessary for gene therapy and for genetic modification. However, delivering DNA into cells is challenging due to its negative charge that leads to repulsion by the negative cell membrane. In the current research, DNA spheres with a DNA encoding to a certain gene were coated with bioavailable polymers, polyethylene imine (PEI) and polycaprolactone (PCL), in a short, one-step sonochemical reaction. The polymers were used in order to neutralize the negative charge of the DNA. Our study shows that the DNA nanospheres not only managed to penetrate the cell without causing it any damage, but also expressed the desired gene inside it.
Nanosilver Biocidal Properties and Their Application in Disinfection of Hatchers in Poultry Processing Plants
Authors: Banach Marcin , Tymczyna Leszek , Chmielowiec-Korzeniowska Anna , Pulit-Prociak Jolanta
Published: January 2016

The aim of this study was to use aqueous suspensions of silver nanoparticles with a wide spectrum of particle sizes, variable morphology, high stability, and appropriate physicochemical properties to examine their bactericidal and fungicidal properties against microorganisms present in poultry processing plants. At the same time, the particles were tested for preventing the production of odorogenous pollutants during incubation and thereby reducing the emission of harmful gases from such types of facilities. The results show that the use of nanosilver preparations in order to disinfect eggs and hatchers reduced microbiological contamination. The bactericidal and fungicidal efficacy of the applied preparation was comparable to UV radiation and its effectiveness increasing during the incubation. Good results were achieved in terms of the level of organic gaseous contaminants, which decreased by 86% after the application of the nanosilver preparation.
Myxoid Chondrosarcoma of Maxilla in a Pediatric Patient: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Nimonkar Pranali , Bhola Nitin , Jadhav Anendd , Jain Anuj , Borle Rajiv , Ranka Rajul , Chaudhary Minal
Published: January 2016

Myxoid variant of chondrosarcoma is an uncommon potentially lethal malignant tumor which is even rare in pediatric age group. In the present paper, we report one such case of intermediate grade myxoid chondrosarcoma of left side of maxilla in a 12-year-old girl. The present case had a firm, painless, and lobulated growth in premolar-molar region which was associated with bicortical expansion. Maxillofacial imaging showed ill-defined radiolucency with displaced maxillary molars. Osteolytic changes were evident with the alveolus and walls of maxillary sinus. Owing to the age of the patient, surgical excision was selected as the modality of management followed by postoperative radiotherapy. This report encompasses the entire gamut of clinicopathological, radiological, and treatment modalities employed for chondrosarcoma.
Preparation of Active Carbon by Additional Activation with Potassium Hydroxide and Characterization of Their Properties
Authors: Buczek Bronislaw
Published: January 2016

A commercially available activated carbon was used to prepare active carbonviareactivation with KOH at 750°C. Active carbon was obtained with 60.5% yield. The resulting active carbon showed a well-developed porous structure with specific surface area 2939 m2/g, total pore volume 1.488 cm3/g, and micropore volume 1.001 cm3/g. Process reactivation of carbon changes its particle size as well as density properties and increases by nearly twice the amounts of methane and carbon dioxide adsorbed under high pressure conditions. Such active carbon may be used to enrich methane or carbon dioxide by pressure swing adsorption technique. Other possible applications of reactivated carbon are storage of hydrogen and methane and sequestration of carbon dioxide.
Improving System Integration: The Art and Science of Engaging Small Community Practices in Health System Innovation
Authors: Pariser Pauline , Pus Laura , Stanaitis Ian , Abrams Howard , Ivers Noah , Baker G. Ross , Lockhart Elizabeth , Hawker Gillian
Published: January 2016

This paper focuses on successful engagement strategies in recruiting and retaining primary care physicians (PCPs) in a quality improvement project, as perceived by family physicians in small practices. Sustained physician engagement is critical for quality improvement (QI) aiming to enhance health system integration. Although there is ample literature on engaging physicians in hospital or team-based practice, few reports describe factors influencing engagement of community-based providers practicing with limited administrative support. The PCPs we describe participated in SCOPE: Seamless Care Optimizing the Patient Experience, a QI project designed to support their care of complex patients and reduce both emergency department (ED) visits and inpatient admissions. SCOPE outcome measures will inform subsequent papers. All the 30 participating PCPs completed surveys assessing perceptions regarding the importance of specific engagement strategies. Project team acknowledgement that primary care is challenging and new access to patient resources were the most important factors in generating initial interest in SCOPE. The opportunity to improve patient care via integration with other providers was most important in their commitment to participate, and a positive experience with project personnel was most important in their continued engagement. Our experience suggests that such providers respond well to personalized, repeated, and targeted engagement strategies.
The Incidence of Peripheral Catheter-Related Thrombosis in Surgical Patients
Authors: Leung Amy , Heal Clare , Banks Jennifer , Abraham Breanna , Capati Gian , Pretorius Casper
Published: January 2016

Background. Central venous catheters and peripherally inserted central catheters are well established risk factors for upper limb deep vein thrombosis. There is limited literature on the thrombosis rates in patients with peripheral catheters. A prospective observational study was conducted to determine the incidence of peripheral catheter-related thrombosis in surgical patients. Methods. Patients deemed high risk for venous thrombosis with a peripheral catheter were considered eligible for the study. An ultrasound was performed on enrolment into the study and at discharge from hospital. Participants were reviewed twice a day for clinical features of upper limb deep vein thrombosis during their admission and followed up at 30 days. Results. 54 patients were included in the study. The incidence of deep vein thrombosis and superficial venous thrombosis was 1.8% and 9.2%, respectively. All cases of venous thrombosis were asymptomatic. Risk factor analysis was limited by the low incidence of thrombosis. Conclusion. This study revealed a low incidence of deep vein thrombosis in surgical patients with peripheral catheters (1.8%). The study was underpowered; therefore the association between peripheral catheters and thrombosis is unable to be established. Future studies with larger sample sizes are required to determine the association between peripheral catheters and thrombosis.
Concomitant Use of Topiramate Inducing Neutropenia in a Schizophrenic Male Stabilized on Clozapine
Authors: Sharma Pravesh , Davis Jeffrey , Rachamallu Vivekananda , Aligeti Manish
Published: January 2016

This is a case of a 23-year-old African American male with a history of paranoid schizophrenia that developed neutropenia on a clozapine-topiramate therapy. Clozapine had well addressed the patient’s psychotic symptoms, while topiramate was used as a weight-lowering agent. The patient had fairly stable leukocyte counts for eight months on clozapine 300 mg and topiramate 100 mg daily. Doubling the dosage of topiramate led to severe neutropenia after two months. Reviewing the patient’s laboratory reports showed a gradual decline of neutrophils occurring at a lower dosage, followed by a rapid decline after an increased dosage. In this case, we report that not only did topiramate act as the neutropenic agent, but also it might have done so in a dose-dependent manner.
Innovative Mobile E-Healthcare Systems: A New Rule-Based Cache Replacement Strategy Using Least Profit Values
Authors: Haraty Ramzi A.
Published: January 2016

Providing and managing e-health data from heterogeneous and ubiquitous e-health service providers in a content distribution network (CDN) for providing e-health services is a challenging task. A content distribution network is normally utilized to cache e-health media contents such as real-time medical images and videos. Efficient management, storage, and caching of distributed e-health data in a CDN or in a cloud computing environment of mobile patients facilitate that doctors, health care professionals, and other e-health service providers have immediate access to e-health information for efficient decision making as well as better treatment. Caching is one of the key methods in distributed computing environments to improve the performance of data retrieval. To find which item in the cache can be evicted and replaced, cache replacement algorithms are used. Many caching approaches are proposed, but the SACCS—Scalable Asynchronous Cache Consistency Scheme—has proved to be more scalable than the others. In this work, we propose a new cache replacement algorithm—Profit SACCS—that is based on the rule-based least profit value. It replaces the least recently used strategy that SACCS uses. A comparison with different cache replacement strategies is also presented.
Prevalence of Antipsychotic Polypharmacy and Associated Factors among Outpatients with Schizophrenia Attending Amanuel Mental Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfaye Siranesh , Debencho Nigussie , Kisi Teresa , Tareke Minale
Published: January 2016

Background.Despite recommendations by guidelines to avoid combinations of antipsychotics unless after multiple trials of antipsychotic monotherapy, it is quite a common practice to use combinations. This practice leads to unnecessary expenses and exposes the patient to severe drug adverse effects.Methods. An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2014. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select 423 study subjects. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify associated factors of antipsychotic polypharmacy among schizophrenia outpatients.Result. The overall prevalence of antipsychotic polypharmacy was found to be 28.2%. Extra pyramidal side effects (AOR = 2.80; 95% CI: 1.38, 5.71), repeated psychiatric hospitalization (AOR = 2.83; 95% CI: 1.45, 5.50), history of substance use (AOR = 2.82; 95% CI: 1.36, 5.88), longer duration of treatment (AOR = 2.10; 95% CI: 1.14, 3.87), and drug nonadherence (AOR = 1.84; 95% CI: 1.14, 2.98) were found to be significantly associated with antipsychotic polypharmacy.Conclusion. Prevalence of antipsychotic polypharmacy was found to be high among the current study participants. Individuals who had extra pyramidal side effects, admission, substance use, duration of treatment, and drug nonadherence were associated with antipsychotic polypharmacy.