bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Cost Information Sharing and Channel Choice in a Dual-Channel Supply Chain
Authors: Liu Huihui , Sun Shuguang , Lei Ming , Leong G. Keong , Deng Honghui
Published: May 2016

Many studies examine information sharing in an uncertain demand environment in a supply chain. However there is little literature on cost information sharing in a dual-channel structure consisting of a retail channel and a direct sales channel. Assuming that the retail sale cost and direct sale cost are random variables with a general distribution, the paper investigates the retailer’s choice on cost information sharing in a Bertrand competition model. Based on the equilibrium outcome of information sharing, the manufacturer’s channel choice is discussed in detail. Our paper provides several interesting conclusions. In both single- and dual-channel structures, the retailer has little motivation to share its private cost information which is verified to be valuable for the manufacturer. When the cost correlation between the two channels increases, our analyses show that the manufacturer’s profit improves. However, when channel choice is involved, the value of information could play a different role. The paper finds that a dual-channel structure can benefit the manufacturer only when the cost correlation is sufficiently low. In addition, if the cost correlation is weak, the cost fluctuation will bring out the advantage of a dual-channel structure and adding a new direct channel will help in risk pooling.
Exploring New Boundaries to Mitigate Structural Vibrations of Bridges in Seismic Regions: A Smart Passive Strategy
Authors: Maddaloni Giuseppe , Caterino Nicola , Nestovito Gianluca , Occhiuzzi Antonio
Published: May 2016

The combined use of two emerging technologies in the field of seismic engineering is investigated. The first is a semiactive control, to reduce smartly the effects induced by earthquakes on structures. The second is the Seismic Early Warning System which allows an estimate of the Peak Ground Accelerations of an incoming earthquake. This paper proposes the exploitation of this information in the framework of a semiactive control strategy based on the use of magnetorheological (MR) dampers. The main idea consists of changing the MR dampers’ behaviour by the PGA estimated by the SEWS, to obtain the optimal seismic response of the structure. The control algorithm needed to drive the variable devices, according to the PGA estimate, is the core issue of the proposed strategy. It has been found that different characteristics of earthquakes that occur at different sites play a significant role in the definition of a control algorithm. Therefore, a design procedure for “regional” control algorithms has been performed. It is based on the results of several nonlinear dynamic simulations performed using natural earthquakes and on the use of a multicriteria decision-making procedure. The effectiveness of the proposed control strategy has been verified with reference to a highway bridge and to two specific worldwide seismic regions.
Challenges in Treating Secondary Syphilis Osteitis in an Immunocompromised Patient with a Penicillin Allergy: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ali Robert , Perez-Downes Julio , Baidoun Firas , Al Turk Bashar , Isache Carmen , Mohan Girish , Perniciaro Charles
Published: May 2016

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that remains fairly commonplace. The introduction of penicillin aided in curbing the incidence of disease; however, with the advent of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), syphilis is now on a resurgence with sometimes curious presentations. We present a case of a 36-year-old Caucasian gentleman with untreated HIV who complained of a skin eruption and joint pains for 6 weeks, prompting the diagnosis of secondary syphilis osteitis. Skin lesions were reminiscent of “malignant” syphilis. CD4 count was 57 cells/μL. RPR was elevated with 1 : 64 titer and positive confirmatory TP-PA. Radiography of the limbs revealed polyostotic cortical irregularities corroborated on bone scintigraphy. The patient had an unknown penicillin allergy and was unwilling to conduct a trial of penicillin-based therapy. He was subsequently treated with doxycycline 100 mg twice daily for 6 weeks and commenced antiretroviral therapy, noting dramatic improvement in both the skin lesions and joint pains. Unfortunately, he defaulted on follow-up, precluding serial RPR and bone imaging. Penicillin allergies have proven to be quite a conundrum in such patients, without much recourse for alternative therapy. Doxycycline with/without azithromycin is other options worth considering.
A Herbal Formula, CGXII, Exerts Antihepatofibrotic Effect in Dimethylnitrosamine‐Induced SD Rat Model
Authors: Kim Hyo-Seon , Kim Hyeong-Geug , Lee Hye-Won , Lee Sung-Bae , Lee Jin-Seok , Im Hwi-Jin , Kim Won-Yong , Lee Dong-Soo , Son Chang-Gue
Published: May 2016

We aimed to evaluate the antihepatofibrotic effects of CGXII, an aqueous extract which is composed of A. iwayomogi, A. xanthioides, and S. miltiorrhiza, against dimethylnitrosamine‐ (DMN‐) induced hepatofibrosis. Male Sprague Dawley rats were intraperitoneally injected with 10 mg/kg of DMN for 4 weeks (three consecutive days weekly). Rats were orally given distilled water, CGXII (50 or 100 mg/kg), or dimethyl dimethoxy biphenyl dicarboxylate (50 mg/kg) daily. DMN injection caused substantial alteration of total body weight and liver and spleen mass, whereas they were notably normalized by CGXII. CGXII treatment also markedly attenuated the elevation of serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels, hepatic lipid peroxidation, and protein carbonyl contents. Collagen accumulation in hepatic tissue evidenced by histopathological analysis and quantitative assessment of hepatic hydroxyproline was ameliorated by CGXII. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed decreased α‐smooth muscle actin supporting the antihepatofibrotic effect of CGXII. The profibrogenic cytokines transforming growth factor‐β, platelet‐derived growth factor‐β, and connective tissue growth factor were increased by DMN injection. Administration of CGXII normalized the protein and gene expression levels of these cytokines. Our findings suggest that CGXII lowers the levels of profibrogenic cytokines and thereby exerts antifibrotic effects.
Oregano Essential Oil Improves Intestinal Morphology and Expression of Tight Junction Proteins Associated with Modulation of Selected Intestinal Bacteria and Immune Status in a Pig Model
Authors: Zou Yi , Xiang Quanhang , Wang Jun , Peng Jian , Wei Hongkui
Published: May 2016

Oregano essential oil (OEO) has long been used to improve the health of animals, particularly the health of intestine, which is generally attributed to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. However, how OEO acts in the intestine of pig is still unclear. This study was aimed at elucidating how OEO promotes the intestinal barrier integrity in a pig model. Pigs were fed a control diet alone or one supplemented with 25 mg/kg of OEO for 4 weeks. The OEO-treated pigs showed decreased (P<0.05) endotoxin level in serum and increased (P<0.05) villus height and expression of occludin and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) in the jejunum. These results demonstrated that the integrity of intestinal barrier was improved by OEO treatment. The OEO-treated pigs had a lower (P<0.05) population ofEscherichia coliin the jejunum, ileum, and colon than the control. This is in accordance with the greater inactivation (P<0.05) of inflammation, which was reflected by the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), protein kinase B (Akt), and nuclear factorκB (NF-κB) signaling pathways and expression of inflammatory cytokines in the jejunum. Our results show that OEO promotes intestinal barrier integrity, probably through modulating intestinal bacteria and immune status in pigs.
Optimal Duration of Monitoring for Atrial Fibrillation in Cryptogenic Stroke: A Nonsystematic Review
Authors: Hariri Essa , Hachem Ahmad , Sarkis Georges , Nasr Samer
Published: May 2016

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common form of cardiac arrhythmias and an independent risk factor for stroke. Despite major advances in monitoring strategies, clinicians tend to miss the diagnoses of AF and especially paroxysmal AF due mainly to its asymptomatic presentation and the rather limited duration dedicated for monitoring for AF after a stroke, which is 24 hours as per the current recommended guidelines. Hence, determining the optimal duration of monitoring for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation after acute ischemic stroke remains a matter of debate. Multiple trials were published in regard to this matter using both invasive and noninvasive monitoring strategies for different monitoring periods. The data provided by these trials showcase strong evidence suggesting a longer monitoring strategy beyond 24 hours is associated with higher detection rates of AF, with the higher percentage of patients detected consequently receiving proper secondary stroke prevention with anticoagulation and thus justifying the cost-effectiveness of such measures. Overall, we thus conclude that increasing the monitoring duration for AF after a cryptogenic stroke to at least 72 hours will indeed enhance the detection rates, but the cost-effectiveness of this monitoring strategy compared to longer monitoring durations is yet to be established.
Preconception Care: A New Standard of Care within Maternal Health Services
Authors: Genuis Stephen J. , Genuis Rebecca A.
Published: May 2016

Emerging research suggests that much pediatric affliction has origins in the vulnerable phase of fetal development. Prenatal factors including deficiency of various nutrients and exposure to assorted toxicants are major etiological determinants of myriad obstetrical complications, pediatric chronic diseases, and perhaps some genetic mutations. With recent recognition that modifiable environmental determinants, rather than genetic predestination, are the etiological source of most chronic illness, modification of environmental factors prior to conception offers the possibility of precluding various mental and physical health conditions. Environmental and lifestyle modification through informed patient choice is possible but evidence confirms that, with little to no training in clinical nutrition, toxicology, or environmental exposures, most clinicians are ill-equipped to counsel patients about this important area. With the totality of available scientific evidence that now exists on the potential to modify disease-causing gestational determinants, failure to take necessary precautionary action may render members of the medical community collectively and individually culpable for preventable illness in children. We advocate for environmental health education of maternity health professionals and the widespread adoption and implementation of preconception care. This will necessitate the translation of emerging knowledge from recent research literature, to health professionals, to reproductive-aged women, and to society at large.
Equine Dermatophytosis: A Survey of Its Occurrence and Species Distribution among Horses in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Maurice Magdalene N. , Kazeem Haruna M. , Kwanashie Clara N. , Maurice Nanven A. , Ngbede Emmanuel O. , Adamu Helen N. , Mshelia Wayuta P. , Edeh Richard E.
Published: June 2016

This study was designed to determine the occurrence and species distribution of dermatophyte from cutaneous skin lesions of horses in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A total of 102 skin scrapings were collected from 102 horses with skin lesions. Mycological studies were carried out using conventional techniques. Dermatophytes were isolated from 18 (17.6%) of the 102 samples collected. The 18 dermatophytes were distributed into 10 different species belonging toMicrosporum(n=5) andTrichophyton(n=5) genera.T. verrucosum(n=4) was the most predominant species isolated followed byM. equinum(n=3),T. vanbreuseghemii(n=2),M. gypseum(n=2), andM. canis(n=2). Others includeM. fulvum(n=2),T. mentagrophytes(n=1),T. equinum(n=1),T. soudanense(n=1), andM. gallinae(n=1). The present study reveals the occurrence of dermatophytes in cutaneous skin lesions of horses in Kaduna State, Nigeria. In addition for the first time in this environment the anthropophilic dermatophyteT. soudanensewas isolated from horses. These findings have great economic, veterinary, and public health significance as they relate to the cost of treatment and dissemination of zoonotic dermatophytes.
Biosorption of Acid Dye in Single and Multidye Systems onto Sawdust of Locust Bean (Parkia biglobosa) Tree
Authors: Giwa Abdur-Rahim Adebisi , Abdulsalam Khadijat Ayanpeju , Wewers Francois , Oladipo Mary Adelaide
Published: May 2016

Properties of raw sawdust ofParkia biglobosa, as a biosorbent for the removal of Acid Blue 161 dye in single, binary, and ternary dye systems with Rhodamine B and Methylene Blue dyes in aqueous solution, were investigated. The sawdust was characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared spectrophotometry, X-ray diffraction, and pH point of zero charge. Batch adsorption experiments were carried out to determine the equilibrium characteristics, thermodynamics, and kinetics of the sorption processes. The data obtained were subjected to various isotherm and kinetics equations. The results showed that the adsorption processes were described by different isotherm models depending on the composition of the system; they were all spontaneous (ΔGranges from −0.72 to −5.36 kJ/mol) and endothermic (range ofΔHis 11.37–26.31 kJ/mol) and with increased randomness withΔSvalues of 55.55 and 98.78 J·mol/K for single and ternary systems, respectively. Pseudo-second-order kinetics model gave better fit for all the sorption systems studied irrespective of the differences in composition, with the initial and overall rate constants higher for the mixtures than for the single system (6.76 g·mg−1min−1). The presence of Rhodamine B and Methylene Blue had a synergetic effect on the maximum monolayer capacity of the adsorbent for Acid Blue 161 dye.
Function of G-Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor-1 in Reproductive System Tumors
Authors: Qian Hongyan , Xuan Jingxiu , Liu Yuan , Shi Guixiu
Published: May 2016

The G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor-1 (GPER-1), also known as GPR30, is a novel estrogen receptor mediating estrogen receptor signaling in multiple cell types. The progress of estrogen-related cancer is promoted by GPER-1 activation through mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), and phospholipase C (PLC) signaling pathways. However, this promoting effect of GPER-1 is nonclassic estrogen receptor (ER) dependent manner. In addition, clinical evidences revealed that GPER-1 is associated with estrogen resistance in estrogen-related cancer patients. These give a hint that GPER-1 may be a novel therapeutic target for the estrogen-related cancers. However, preclinical studies also found that GPER-1 activation of its special agonist G-1 inhibits cancer cell proliferation. This review aims to summarize the characteristics and complex functions of GPER-1 in cancers.
Gingival Mesenchymal Stem/Progenitor Cells: A Unique Tissue Engineering Gem
Authors: Fawzy El-Sayed Karim M. , Dörfer Christof E.
Published: May 2016

The human gingiva, characterized by its outstanding scarless wound healing properties, is a unique tissue and a pivotal component of the periodontal apparatus, investing and surrounding the teeth in their sockets in the alveolar bone. In the last years gingival mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells (G‐MSCs), with promising regenerative and immunomodulatory properties, have been isolated and characterized from the gingival lamina propria. These cells, in contrast to other mesenchymal stem/progenitor cell sources, are abundant, readily accessible, and easily obtainable via minimally invasive cell isolation techniques. The present review summarizes the current scientific evidence on G‐MSCs’ isolation, their characterization, the investigated subpopulations, the generated induced pluripotent stem cells‐ (iPSC‐) like G‐MSCs, their regenerative properties, and current approaches for G‐MSCs’ delivery. The review further demonstrates their immunomodulatory properties, the transplantation preconditioning attempts via multiple biomolecules to enhance their attributes, and the experimental therapeutic applications conducted to treat multiple diseases in experimental animal models in vivo. G‐MSCs show remarkable tissue reparative/regenerative potential, noteworthy immunomodulatory properties, and primary experimental therapeutic applications of G‐MSCs are very promising, pointing at future biologically based therapeutic techniques, being potentially superior to conventional clinical treatment modalities.
Lactate Dehydrogenase in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Something Old, Something New
Authors: Faloppi Luca , Bianconi Maristella , Memeo Riccardo , Casadei Gardini Andrea , Giampieri Riccardo , Bittoni Alessandro , Andrikou Kalliopi , Del Prete Michela , Cascinu Stefano , Scartozzi Mario
Published: May 2016

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver tumour (80–90%) and represents more than 5.7% of all cancers. Although in recent years the therapeutic options for these patients have increased, clinical results are yet unsatisfactory and the prognosis remains dismal. Clinical or molecular criteria allowing a more accurate selection of patients are in fact largely lacking. Lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) is a glycolytic key enzyme in the conversion of pyruvate to lactate under anaerobic conditions. In preclinical models, upregulation of LDH has been suggested to ensure both an efficient anaerobic/glycolytic metabolism and a reduced dependence on oxygen under hypoxic conditions in tumour cells. Data from several analyses on different tumour types seem to suggest that LDH levels may be a significant prognostic factor. The role of LDH in HCC has been investigated by different authors in heterogeneous populations of patients. It has been tested as a potential biomarker in retrospective, small, and nonfocused studies in patients undergoing surgery, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), and systemic therapy. In the major part of these studies, high LDH serum levels seem to predict a poorer outcome. We have reviewed literature in this setting trying to resume basis for future studies validating the role of LDH in this disease.
Fairness-Aware and Energy Efficiency Resource Allocation in Multiuser OFDM Relaying System
Authors: Liang Guangjun , Zhu Qi , Yan An , Pan Ziyu , Xin Jianfang , Zhang Tianjiao
Published: May 2016

A fairness-aware resource allocation scheme in a cooperative orthogonal frequency division multiple (OFDM) network is proposed based on jointly optimizing the subcarrier pairing, power allocation, and channel-user assignment. Compared with traditional OFDM relaying networks, the source is permitted to retransfer the same data transmitted by it in the first time slot, further improving the system capacity performance. The problem which maximizes the energy efficiency (EE) of the system with total power constraint and minimal spectral efficiency constraint is formulated into a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) problem which has an intractable complexity in general. The optimization model is simplified into a typical fractional programming problem which is testified to be quasiconcave. Thus we can adopt Dinkelbach method to deal with MINLP problem proposed to achieve the optimal solution. The simulation results show that the joint resource allocation method proposed can achieve an optimal EE performance under the minimum system service rate requirement with a good global convergence.
NKG2C+CD57+Natural Killer Cell Expansion Parallels Cytomegalovirus-Specific CD8+T Cell Evolution towards Senescence
Authors: Heath John , Newhook Nicholas , Comeau Emilie , Gallant Maureen , Fudge Neva , Grant Michael
Published: May 2016

Objective. Measuring NKG2C+CD57+natural killer (NK) cell expansion to investigate NK responses against human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and assessing relationships with adaptive immunity against HCMV.Methods. Expansion of NKG2C+CD57+NK was measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from groups distinguished by HCMV and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection status. Anti-HCMV antibody levels against HCMV-infected MRC-5 cell lysate were assessed by ELISA and HCMV-specific CD8+T cell responses characterized by intracellular flow cytometry following PBMC stimulation with immunodominant HCMV peptides.Results. Median NK, antibody, and CD8+T cell responses against HCMV were significantly greater in the HCMV/HIV coinfected group than the group infected with CMV alone. The fraction of CMV-specific CD8+T cells expressing CD28 correlated inversely with NKG2C+CD57+NK expansion in HIV infection.Conclusion. Our data reveal no significant direct relationships between NK and adaptive immunity against HCMV. However, stronger NK and adaptive immune responses against HCMV and an inverse correlation between NKG2C+CD57+NK expansion and proliferative reserve of HCMV-specific CD8+T cells, as signified by CD28 expression, indicate parallel evolution of NK and T cell responses against HCMV in HIV infection. Similar aspects of chronic HCMV infection may drive both NK and CD8+T cell memory inflation.
Weber B Fracture of the Lateral Malleolus with Concomitant Anterior Talofibular Ligament Injury following an Ankle Supination Injury
Authors: Faqi Mohammed Khalid , AlJawder Abdulla , Alkhalifa Fahad , Almajed Ali H.
Published: May 2016

The Lauge-Hansen (LH) classification attempts to predict patterns of ankle injuries based upon the preceding mechanism of injury. Although it is widely used in clinical practice, it has been criticized mainly due to numerous reports of cases conflicting the prediction system. Here, we report a case of a 32-year-old male who sustained a Weber B fracture of the lateral malleolus following a supination ankle injury, which was treated conservatively, following which the patient presented with ankle instability and was found to have concurrent anterior talofibular ligament tear. Critical review of the LH classification along with its shortcomings is discussed.
Novel Association of WNK4 Gene, Ala589Ser Polymorphism in Essential Hypertension, and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Malaysia
Authors: Ghodsian Nooshin , Ismail Patimah , Ahmadloo Salma , Heidari Farzad , Haghvirdizadeh Polin , Ataollahi Eshkoor Sima , Etemad Ali
Published: May 2016

With-no-lysine (K) Kinase-4 (WNK4) consisted of unique serine and threonine protein kinases, genetically associated with an autosomal dominant form of hypertension. Argumentative consequences have lately arisen on the association of specific single nucleotide polymorphisms ofWNK4gene and essential hypertension (EHT). The aim of this study was to determine the association of Ala589Ser polymorphism ofWNK4gene with essential hypertensive patients in Malaysia.WNK4gene polymorphism was specified utilizing mutagenically separated polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method in 320 subjects including 163 cases and 157 controls. Close relation betweenAla589Serpolymorphism and elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) was recognized. Sociodemographic factors including body mass index (BMI), age, the level of fasting blood sugar (FBS), low density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglyceride (TG) in the cases and healthy subjects exhibited strong differences (p<0.05). The distribution of allele frequency and genotype ofWNK4geneAla589Serpolymorphism showed significant differences (p<0.05) between EHT subjects with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and normotensive subjects, statistically. TheWNK4gene variation influences significantly blood pressure increase.Ala589Serprobably has effects on the enzymic activity leading to enhanced predisposition to the disorder.
Effects of ACL Reconstructive Surgery on Temporal Variations of Cytokine Levels in Synovial Fluid
Authors: Bigoni Marco , Turati Marco , Gandolla Marta , Sacerdote Paola , Piatti Massimiliano , Castelnuovo Alberto , Franchi Silvia , Gorla Massimo , Munegato Daniele , Gaddi Diego , Pedrocchi Alessandra , Omeljaniuk Robert J. , Locatelli Vittorio , Torsello Antonio
Published: May 2016

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction restores knee stability but does not reduce the incidence of posttraumatic osteoarthritis induced by inflammatory cytokines. The aim of this research was to longitudinally measure IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-αlevels in patients subjected to ACL reconstruction using bone-patellar tendon-bone graft. Synovial fluid was collected within 24–72 hours of ACL rupture (acute), 1 month after injury immediately prior to surgery (presurgery), and 1 month thereafter (postsurgery). For comparison, a “control” group consisted of individuals presenting chronic ACL tears. Our results indicate that levels of IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10 vary significantly over time in reconstruction patients. In theacute phase,the levels of these cytokines in reconstruction patients were significantly greater than those in controls. In thepresurgeryphase, cytokine levels in reconstruction patients were reduced and comparable with those in controls. Finally, cytokine levels increased again with respect to control group in thepostsurgeryphase. The levels of IL-1βand TNF-αshowed no temporal variation. Our data show that the history of an ACL injury, including trauma and reconstruction, has a significant impact on levels of IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10 in synovial fluid but does not affect levels of TNF-αand IL-1β.
Simultaneous Determination of Four Active Ingredients inSargentodoxa cuneataby HPLC Coupled with Evaporative Light Scattering Detection
Authors: Li Di-Hua , Lv Yuan-Shan , Liu Jun-Hong , Yang Lei , Wang Yan , Zhang Shu-Kun , Zhuo Yu-Zhen
Published: May 2016

A HPLC coupled with evaporative light scattering detection method had been developed for the simultaneous determination of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethyl alcohol glycoside, salidroside, chlorogenic acid, and liriodendrin in the stem ofSargentodoxa cuneata. With a C18 column, the analysis was performed using acetonitrile and 0.2% formic acid aqueous solution as mobile phase in gradient program at a flow rate of 0.9 mL/min. The optimum drift tube temperature of evaporative light scattering detection was at 105°C with the air flow rate of 2.5 L/min. The calibration curves showed good linearity during the test ranges. This method was validated for limits of detection and quantification, precision, and reproducibility. The recoveries were within the range of 96.39%–104.64%. The relative standard deviations of intraday and interday precision were less than 2.90% and 3.30%, respectively. The developed method can be successfully used to quantify the four analytes in the stem ofSargentodoxa cuneatafrom various regions in China.
The Vulnerability of Vessels Involved in the Role of Embolism and Hypoperfusion in the Mechanisms of Ischemic Cerebrovascular Diseases
Authors: Yu Yong Peng , Tan Lan
Published: May 2016

Accurate definition and better understanding of the mechanisms of stroke are crucial as this will guide the effective care and therapy. In this paper, we review the previous basic and clinical researches on the causes or mechanisms of ischemic cerebrovascular diseases (ICVD) and interpret the correlation between embolism and hypoperfusion based on vascular stenosis and arterial intimal lesions. It was suggested that if there is no embolus (dynamic or in situ emboli), there might be no cerebral infarction. Three kinds of different clinical outcomes of TIA were theoretically interpreted based on its mechanisms. We suppose that there is a correlation between embolism and hypoperfusion, and which mechanisms (hypoperfusion or hypoperfusion induced microemboli) playing the dominant role in each type of ICVD depends on the unique background of arterial intimal lesions (the vulnerability of vessels). That is to say, the vulnerability of vessels is involved in the role of embolism and hypoperfusion in the mechanisms of ischemic cerebrovascular diseases. This inference might enrich and provide better understandings for the underlying etiologies of ischemic cerebrovascular events.
3D Printing/Additive Manufacturing Single Titanium Dental Implants: A Prospective Multicenter Study with 3 Years of Follow-Up
Authors: Tunchel Samy , Blay Alberto , Kolerman Roni , Mijiritsky Eitan , Shibli Jamil Awad
Published: May 2016

This prospective 3-year follow-up clinical study evaluated the survival and success rates of 3DP/AM titanium dental implants to support single implant-supported restorations. After 3 years of loading, clinical, radiographic, and prosthetic parameters were assessed; the implant survival and the implant-crown success were evaluated. Eighty-two patients (44 males, 38 females; age range 26–67 years) were enrolled in the present study. A total of 110 3DP/AM titanium dental implants (65 maxilla, 45 mandible) were installed: 75 in healed alveolar ridges and 35 in postextraction sockets. The prosthetic restorations included 110 single crowns (SCs). After 3 years of loading, six implants failed, for an overall implant survival rate of 94.5%; among the 104 surviving implant-supported restorations, 6 showed complications and were therefore considered unsuccessful, for an implant-crown success of 94.3%. The mean distance between the implant shoulder and the first visible bone-implant contact was 0.75 mm (±0.32) and 0.89 (±0.45) after 1 and 3 years of loading, respectively. 3DP/AM titanium dental implants seem to represent a successful clinical option for the rehabilitation of single-tooth gaps in both jaws, at least until 3-year period. Further, long-term clinical studies are needed to confirm the present results.
Redo Surgery after Failed Open VBG: Laparoscopic Minigastric Bypass versus Laparoscopic Roux en Y Gastric Bypass—Which Is Better?
Authors: Salama Tamer M. S. , Sabry Karim
Published: May 2016

Background. Long-term studies have reported that the rate of conversion surgeries after open VBG ranged from 49.7 to 56%. This study is aiming to compare between LMGB and LRYGB as conversion surgeries after failed open VBG with respect to indications and operative and postoperative outcomes.Methods. Sixty patients (48 females and 12 males) presenting with failed VBG, with an average BMI of 39.7 kg/m2ranging between 26.5 kg/m2and 53 kg/m2, and a mean age of 38.7 ranging between 24 and 51 years were enrolled in this study. Operative and postoperative data was recorded up to one year after the operation.Results. MGB is a simple procedure that is associated with short operative time and low rate of complications. However, MGB may not be applicable in all cases with failed VBG and therefore RYGB may be needed in such cases.Conclusion. LMGB is a safe and feasible revisional bariatric surgery after failed VBG and can achieve early good weight loss results similar to that of LRYGP. However, the decision to convert to lap RYGB or MGB should be taken intraoperatively depending mainly on the actual intraoperative pouch length.
Risk-Averse Evolutionary Game Model of Aviation Joint Emergency Response
Authors: Pan Wei , Guo Ying , Liao Shujie
Published: May 2016

We study effects of risk-averse attitude of both participators in aviation joint emergency response on the coevolution of cooperation mechanisms and individual preferences between airport and nonprofit organization. First, based on the current aviation joint emergency mechanism in China, we put forward two mechanisms to select the joint nonprofit organization, including reputation cooperation and bidding competition. Meanwhile, we consider two preferences including altruism and selfishness. Then we build replicator dynamics equations using the theory of conditional value-at-risk (CVaR) taking risk aversion attitude into account. Finally, we introduce the factor of government and give all participators some suggestions. We show that the risk-averse attitude of the other game participator affects the one participator’s decision and the effects subject to some parameters.
Stick-Slip Analysis of a Drill String Subjected to Deterministic Excitation and Stochastic Excitation
Authors: Qiu Hongyuan , Yang Jianming , Butt Stephen
Published: May 2016

Using a finite element model, this paper investigates the torsional vibration of a drill string under combined deterministic excitation and random excitation. The random excitation is caused by the random friction coefficients between the drill bit and the bottom of the hole and assumed as white noise. Simulation shows that the responses under random excitation become random too, and the probabilistic distribution of the responses at each discretized time instant is obtained. The two points, entering and leaving the stick stage, are examined with special attention. The results indicate that the two points become random under random excitation, and the distributions are not normal even when the excitation is assumed as Gaussian white noise.
Peripheral Nerve Ultrasonography in Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy and Multifocal Motor Neuropathy: Correlations with Clinical and Neurophysiological Data
Authors: Merola Aristide , Rosso Michela , Romagnolo Alberto , Peci Erdita , Cocito Dario
Published: May 2016

Objective.This cross-sectional study analyzes the pattern of ultrasound peripheral nerve alterations in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) and multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) at different stages of functional disability.Material and Methods.22 CIDP and 10 MMN patients and a group of 70 healthy controls were evaluated with an ultrasound scan of the median, ulnar, peroneal, tibial, and sural nerves. Results were correlated with clinical disability scales and nerve conduction studies.Results.Patients with intermediate functional impairment showed relatively larger cross-sectional areas than subjects with either a milder (p<0.05) or more severe impairment (p<0.05), both in CIDP and in MMN. In addition, MMN was associated with greater side-to-side intranerve variability (p<0.05), while higher cross-sectional areas were observed in CIDP (p<0.05) and in nerve segments with predominantly demyelinating features (p<0.05). Higher CSA values were observed in nerves with demyelinating features versus axonal damage (p<0.05for CIDP;p<0.05for MMN).Discussion and Conclusions.Greater extent of quantitative and qualitative US alterations was observed in patients at intermediate versus higher functional disability and in nerves with demyelinating versus axonal damage. CIDP and MMN showed differential US aspects, with greater side-to-side intranerve variability in MMN and higher cross-sectional areas in CIDP.
Attribute Analysis of Aridity Variability in North Xinjiang, China
Authors: Wu Yanfeng , Zhang Guangxin , Shen Hong , Xu Y. Jun , Bake Batur
Published: May 2016

Identifying the dominant meteorological factors affecting aridity variability can improve our understanding of climate change and its future trend in arid and semiarid regions. This study investigated the spatiotemporal aridity variability in North Xinjiang, China, from 1961 to 2013, based on the UNESCO aridity index (precipitation/potential evapotranspiration), and analyzed its association with meteorological factors. The results suggest that North Xinjiang is becoming more humid with an increasing trend in aridity index. Precipitation, temperature, and relative humidity have positive correlation with aridity, and evapotranspiration, sunshine hours, and wind speed have negative correlation with aridity. Wind speed and sunshine hours have a higher sensitivity and more contribution to aridity. This study provides an understanding of the effect of recent climate change on drought in northwest China.
A Novel Hybrid MCDM Procedure for Achieving Aspired Earned Value Project Performance
Authors: Chou Shou-Yan , Yu Chien-Chou , Tzeng Gwo-Hshiung
Published: May 2016

A better-performing project gains more subsequent businesses. Many organizations worldwide apply an earned value management (EVM) system to monitor and control their projects’ performance. However, a successful EVM application requires handling multiple interinfluenced criteria with feedback effects for decision-making and continuous improvements throughout the application life cycle. The conventional decision approaches assume that preferences between criteria are independent and put their focuses on decision-making. This study employs a hybrid multiple criteria decision-making (HMCDM) method to devise a novel procedure to fulfil the deficiencies. The proposed procedure enables us to evaluate interinfluence effects and gap indices among criteria/dimensions/alternatives and then systemize the evaluation results in a context of influential network relation map (INRM). The INRM provides managers with visual information to find a route in making application decisions, while identifying critical gaps for continuous improvements. A numerical example is presented to illustrate the applicability of the proposed procedure. The results show that, by employing the HMCDM method, the proposed procedure can provide organizations with a foundation to ensure that the aspired EVM application outcomes are achieved at different levels within an organization.
Alterations in Pericyte Subpopulations Are Associated with Elevated Blood–Tumor Barrier Permeability in Experimental Brain Metastasis of Breast Cancer
Authors: Lyle L. Tiffany , Lockman Paul R. , Adkins Chris E. , Mohammad Afroz Shareef , Sechrest Emily , Hua Emily , Palmieri Diane , Liewehr David J. , Steinberg Seth M. , Kloc Wojciech , Izycka-Swieszewska Ewa , Duchnowska Renata , Nayyar Naema , Brastianos Priscilla K. , Steeg Patricia S. , Gril Brunilde
Published: June 2016

Purpose: The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is modified to a blood–tumor barrier (BTB) as a brain metastasis develops from breast or other cancers. We (i) quantified the permeability of experimental brain metastases, (ii) determined the composition of the BTB, and (iii) identified which elements of the BTB distinguished metastases of lower permeability from those with higher permeability.

Experimental Design: A SUM190-BR3 experimental inflammatory breast cancer brain metastasis subline was established. Experimental brain metastases from this model system and two previously reported models (triple-negative MDA-231-BR6, HER2+ JIMT-1-BR3) were serially sectioned; low- and high-permeability lesions were identified with systemic 3-kDa Texas Red dextran dye. Adjoining sections were used for quantitative immunofluorescence to known BBB and neuroinflammatory components. One-sample comparisons against a hypothesized value of one were performed with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

Results: When uninvolved brain was compared with any brain metastasis, alterations in endothelial, pericytic, astrocytic, and microglial components were observed. When metastases with relatively low and high permeability were compared, increased expression of a desmin+ subpopulation of pericytes was associated with higher permeability (231-BR6 P = 0.0002; JIMT-1-BR3 P = 0.004; SUM190-BR3 P = 0.008); desmin+ pericytes were also identified in human craniotomy specimens. Trends of reduced CD13+ pericytes (231-BR6 P = 0.014; JIMT-1-BR3 P = 0.002, SUM190-BR3, NS) and laminin α2 (231-BR6 P = 0.001; JIMT-1-BR3 P = 0.049; SUM190-BR3 P = 0.023) were also observed with increased permeability.

Conclusions: We provide the first account of the composition of the BTB in experimental brain metastasis. Desmin+ pericytes and laminin α2 are potential targets for the development of novel approaches to increase chemotherapeutic efficacy. Clin Cancer Res; 22(21); 5287–99. ©2016 AACR.
Teflon Might Be a Factor Accounting for a Failed Microvascular Decompression in Hemifacial Spasm: A Technical Note
Authors: Dou Ning-Ning , Zhong Jun , Liu Ming-Xing , Xia Lei , Sun Hui , Li Bin , Li Shi-Ting
Published: June 2016

Background: Although Teflon is widely adopted for microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery, it has never been addressed for failure analysis. This study analyzed the reasons for failed MVDs with emphasis on the Teflon sponge. Methods: Among the 685 hemifacial spasm cases between 2010 and 2014, 31 were reoperated on within a week because of unsatisfactory outcome, which was focused on in this study. Intraoperative findings regarding Teflon inserts of these repeat MVDs were reviewed. Results: Among the 38 without satisfactory outcomes, 31 underwent repeat MVDs, and they were all spasm free afterwards. Eventually, the final cure rate was 99.2%. It was found in the repeat MVDs that the failure was attributable to the Teflon insert in most of the cases (74.2%) directly or indirectly. It was caused by improper placement (47.8%), inappropriate size (34.8%) and unsuitable shape (17.4%) of the Teflon sponge. Conclusion: Although it is not difficult for an experienced neurosurgeon to discover a neurovascular conflict during the MVD process, the size, shape and location of the Teflon sponge should not be ignored. Basically, the Teflon insert is used to keep the offending artery away from the facial nerve root rather than to isolate it. Therefore, the ideal Teflon sponge should be just small enough to produce a neurovascular separation.
Angiotensin 1–7 Is a Negative Modulator of Aldosterone Secretion In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Shefer Gabi , Marcus Yonit , Knoll Esther , Dolkart Oleg , Foichtwanger Shulamit , Nevo Nava , Limor Rona , Stern Naftali
Published: June 2016

Angiotensin (1–7) [Ang 1–7] is a 7 amino acid peptide generated predominantly from Ang II by the action of Ang-converting enzyme 2. We previously showed that Ang 1–7 reduced plasma aldosterone and plasma renin activity in high fructose–fed rats, and that the reduction in circulating aldosterone seemed to accord a parallel reduction in plasma renin activity. Here, we tested the possibility that Ang 1–7 affects aldosterone secretion acting directly in glomerulosa cells. First, as detected by immunofluorescence, the receptor for Ang 1–7, Mas1 is localized predominantly at the rat adrenal subcapsular region. Second, in isolated rat glomerulosa cells incubates, Ang 1–7 attenuated the aldosterone response to Ang II, with the strongest effect seen on Ang II (10
−9
M) (control 22±2.5 pg/10
5
cells; Ang II [10
−9
M] 189±11 pg/10
5
cells; Ang II [10
−9
M]+Ang 1–7 [10
−6
M] 33±3.6 pg/10
5
cells;
P
<0.001) and the largest effect on adrenocorticotropic hormone (10
−8
M) (control 30±3.4 pg/10
5
cells; ACTH [10
−8
M] 409±32.5 pg/10
5
cells; ACTH [10
−8
M]+Ang 1–7 [10
−6
M] 280±12.5 pg/10
5
cells;
P
<0.001). In contrast, Ang 1–7 did not affect the aldosterone response to potassium (K
+
). In rats subjected to a low-salt diet for 7 days, continuous infusion of Ang 1–7 (576 μg/kg per day) resulted in a lesser rise in aldosterone (salt deplete+Ang 1–7, 16.4±4.8 ng/dL) compared with rats receiving vehicle (salt deplete+vehicle, 27.6±5.3 ng/dL;
P
<0.01) but did not modify plasma renin activity. Taken together, these results indicate that Ang 1–7 can act as a negative modulator of aldosterone secretion in vitro and in vivo.
High‐Sensitivity Troponin: A Clinical Blood Biomarker for Staging Cardiomyopathy in Fabry Disease
Authors: Seydelmann Nora , Liu Dan , Krämer Johannes , Drechsler Christiane , Hu Kai , Nordbeck Peter , Schneider Andreas , Störk Stefan , Bijnens Bart , Ertl Georg , Wanner Christoph , Weidemann Frank
Published: June 2016

Background

High‐sensitivity troponin (hs‐
TNT
), a biomarker of myocardial damage, might be useful for assessing fibrosis in Fabry cardiomyopathy. We performed a prospective analysis of hs‐
TNT
as a biomarker for myocardial changes in Fabry patients and a retrospective longitudinal follow‐up study to assess longitudinal hs‐
TNT
changes relative to fibrosis and cardiomyopathy progression.

Methods and Results

For the prospective analysis, hs‐
TNT
from 75 consecutive patients with genetically confirmed Fabry disease was analyzed relative to typical Fabry‐associated echocardiographic findings and total myocardial fibrosis as measured by late gadolinium enhancement (
LE
) on magnetic resonance imaging. Longitudinal data (3.9±2.0 years), including hs‐
TNT
,
LE
, and echocardiographic findings from 58 Fabry patients, were retrospectively collected. Hs‐
TNT
level positively correlated with
LE
(linear correlation coefficient, 0.72; odds ratio, 32.81 [95%
CI,
3.56–302.59];
P
=0.002); patients with elevated baseline hs‐
TNT
(>14 ng/L) showed significantly increased
LE
(median: baseline, 1.9 [1.1–3.3] %; follow‐up, 3.2 [2.3–4.9] %;
P
<0.001) and slightly elevated hs‐
TNT
(baseline, 44.7 [30.1–65.3] ng/L; follow‐up, 49.1 [27.6–69.5] ng/L;
P
=0.116) during follow‐up. Left ventricular wall thickness and
EF
of patients with elevated hs‐
TNT
were decreased during follow‐up, indicating potential cardiomyopathy progression.

Conclusions

hs‐
TNT
is an accurate, easily accessible clinical blood biomarker for detecting replacement fibrosis in patients with Fabry disease and a qualified predictor of cardiomyopathy progression. Thus, hs‐
TNT
could be helpful for staging and follow‐up of Fabry patients.
Ankle Brachial Index and Subsequent Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Chen Jing , Mohler Emile R. , Garimella Pranav S. , Hamm L. Lee , Xie Dawei , Kimmel Stephen , Townsend Raymond R. , Budoff Matthew , Pan Qiang , Nessel Lisa , Steigerwalt Susan , Wright Jackson T. , He Jiang ,   the CRIC Investigators, Appel Lawrence J. , Feldman Harold I. , Go Alan S. , He Jiang , Kusek John W. , Lash James P. , Ojo Akinlolu , Rahman Mahboob , Townsend Raymond R.
Published: June 2016

Background

The clinical implications of ankle‐brachial index (
ABI
) cutpoints are not well defined in patients with chronic kidney disease (
CKD
) despite increased prevalence of high
ABI
attributed to arterial stiffness. We examined the relationship of
ABI
with cardiovascular disease (
CVD
) and all‐cause mortality among
CKD
patients.

Methods and Results

Three thousand six hundred twenty‐seven participants without clinical peripheral artery disease (
PAD
) at baseline from the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort Study were included.
ABI
was obtained per standard protocol and
CVD
events were confirmed by medical record adjudication. A U‐shaped association of
ABI
with
PAD
, myocardial infarction (
MI
), composite
CVD
, and all‐cause mortality was observed. Individuals with an
ABI
between 1.0 and <1.4 had the lowest risk of outcomes. Compared to participants with an
ABI
between 1.0 and <1.4, multiple‐adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for those with an
ABI
of <0.9, 0.9 to <1.0, and ≥1.4 were 5.78 (3.57, 9.35), 2.76 (1.56, 4.88), and 4.85 (2.05, 11.50) for
PAD
; 1.67 (1.23, 2.29), 1.85 (1.33, 2.57), and 2.08 (1.10, 3.93) for
MI
; 1.51 (1.27, 1.79), 1.39 (1.15, 1.68), and 1.23 (0.82, 1.84) for composite
CVD
; and 1.55 (1.28, 1.89), 1.36 (1.10, 1.69), and 1.00 (0.62, 1.62) for all‐cause mortality, respectively.

Conclusions

This study indicates that
ABI
<1.0 was related to risk of
PAD
,
MI
, composite
CVD
, and all‐cause mortality whereas
ABI
≥1.4 was related to clinical
PAD
. These findings suggest that
ABI
cutpoints of <1.0 or ≥1.4 for diagnosing
PAD
and
ABI
<1.0 for
CVD
risk stratification should be further evaluated among
CKD
patients.
The Cognitive Foundations of Reincarnation
Authors: White Claire
Published: June 2016

Anthropological records and psychological studies demonstrate the recurrence of ideas about how to determine the identity of reincarnated persons. These ideas are often incoherent with corresponding theological dogma about the process of reincarnation. Specifically, even though reincarnation is represented as a process of change, people often seek out and interpret particular similarities between the deceased and reincarnated agent as evidence that the two are one and the same person. This paper argues that panhuman cognitive tendencies explain, in part, the spread and recurrence of ideas about what provides evidence of reincarnation: specifically, representations of reincarnated agents are informed and constrained by everyday cognitive intuitions that govern representations of continued identity for intentional agents generally. The paper concludes that these constraints go some way towards explaining the recurrent features of reincarnation concepts and behaviors cross-culturally.