bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma copeptin and metabolic dysfunction in individuals with bipolar disorder
Authors: Mansur Rodrigo B. , Rizzo Lucas B. , Santos Camila M. , Asevedo Elson , Cunha Graccielle R. , Noto Mariane N. , Pedrini Mariana , Zeni‐Graiff Maiara , Cordeiro Quirino , McIntyre Roger S. , Brietzke Elisa
Published: April 2017

Aim

This study aimed to compare plasma copeptin levels, the c‐terminal of provasopressin, between individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) and healthy controls and to assess the relation between copeptin and metabolic parameters.

Methods

We measured plasma levels of copeptin in individuals with BD (n = 55) and healthy controls (n = 21). Information related to psychiatric/medical history, as well as to metabolic comorbidities and laboratorial parameters was also captured. Insulin resistance and β‐cell function in basal state were calculated from fasting plasma glucose and C‐peptide using the HOMA2 calculator. Impaired glucose metabolism was defined as pre‐diabetes or type 2 diabetes mellitus. Copeptin, adiponectin, and leptin plasma levels were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Plasma copeptin levels were lower in individuals with BD, relative to healthy controls (P < 0.001). There were significant interactions between BD and plasma copeptin on β‐cell function (rate ratio [RR] = 1.048; P = 0.030) and on leptin levels (RR = 1.087; P = 0.012), indicating that there was a positive correlation between these markers in the BD group, but a negative one in healthy controls. Finally, in individuals with BD only, the association between β‐cell function, body mass index (RR = 1.007; P < 0.001), and insulin resistance (RR = 1.001; P = 0.037) was moderated by copeptin levels.

Conclusion

Copeptin levels were lower in individuals with BD than in healthy controls. There were differential associations between copeptin and metabolic parameters within the BD and healthy control subgroups, suggesting an association between abnormal copeptin and metabolic dysregulation only in the BD population.
Prolonged viremia in dengue virus infection in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients and patients with hematological malignancies
Authors: de Souza Pereira Bárbara Brito , Darrigo Junior Luiz Guilherme , de Mello Costa Thalita Cristina , Felix Alvina Clara , Simoes Belinda P. , Stracieri Ana Beatriz , da Silva Paula Moreira , Mauad Marcos , Machado Clarisse M.
Published: May 2017

Fever, skin rash, headache, and thrombocytopenia are considered hallmarks of dengue infection. However, these symptoms are frequently observed in infectious and non‐infectious complications of hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients and oncohematological patients. Thus, laboratory confirmation of dengue is relevant for prompt intervention and proper management of dengue in endemic and non‐endemic regions. Because no prospective study of dengue has been conducted in these populations, the actual morbidity and mortality of dengue is unknown. In the present series, we describe five cases of dengue in patients living in endemic areas, emphasizing the prolonged course of the disease and the occurrence of prolonged viremia.
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES AND SURFACE FREE ENERGY OF OIL PALM EMPTY FRUIT BUNCHES FIBRE REINFORCED BIOCOMPOSITES AS GLASS FIBRE SUBSTITUTION
Authors: Suryadi Gema Sukmawati , Nikmatin Siti , Sudaryanto Sudaryanto , Irmansyah Irmansyah
Published: April 2017

Study of the size effect of natural fibre from oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFB) as filler, onto the mechanical and physical properties of fibre reinforced biocomposites based on recycled Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) has been done. The OPEFB fibres were prepared by mechanical milling and sieving to obtain medium-fibre (20 mesh) and short-fibre (100 mesh). The biocomposites have been produced by extrusion using single-screw extruder method. Mechanical properties and S of biocomposites were evaluated and compared with glass fibre (GF) filled composite which is commonly used in plastics industrial applications. The result showed that the impact strength increased with the decreasing of OPEFB fibre size, while the Young’s modulus decreased. Other mechanical properties of biocomposites with short-fibre (RABS/SF) and medium-fibre (RABS/MF) filler were not significantly different at 95% confidence interval. Impact strength of short-fibre filled biocomposite was higher than glass fibre filled composites. The surface free energy of biocomposites lower than glass fibre filled composites, but its dispersive components are higher, indicating more hydrophobic feature of the surface. The fabricated micro-fibre of OPEFB can be used as viable alternative to substitute glass fibre as filler materials of composites.
REACTION OPTIMIZATION OF Aspergillus niger α-L-ARABINOFURANOSIDASE FOR IMPROVED ARABINOSE PRODUCTION FROM KENAF STEM
Authors: Ayob Siti Norbaidurah , Abdul Murad Abdul Munir , Abu Bakar Farah Diba , Md Illias Rosli
Published: April 2017

There are abundant of lignocellulosic biomass readily available with varying compositions. Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) is one of this lignocellulosic biomass that has a high content of hemicellulose. This particular hemicellulose is composed of high arabinoxylan, which is a xylan backbone with arabinofuranosyl branches. In order to hydrolyze arabinoxylan, a branching enzyme is needed. Therefore, α-L-arabinofuranosidase from Aspergillus niger ATCC120120 (AnabfA) was used to hydrolyzed pre-treated kenaf and the reaction conditions were optimized using central composite design (CCD) to produce a significant amount of arabinose. There were 20 experiments conducted with 1.68 star points and 6 replicates at the centre points. The reaction conditions that were optimized are enzyme loading, substrate concentration and reaction time in which resulted with 88 U AnabfA activity, 0.9% (w/v) and 48 h, respectively. These optimized conditions managed to increase the yield of arabinose with 47.17 mg/g arabinose produced.
MICROAEROPHILIC AND ANAEROBIC DECOLORIZATION OF AZO DYE IN RICH AND MINIMAL MEDIA BY CITROBACTER SP. STRAIN L17
Authors: Hossennia Ali , Chan Giek Far , Abdul Rashid Noor Aini , Abdul-Wahab Mohd Firdaus
Published: April 2017

This study aimed to investigate the ability of Citrobacter sp. strain L17 to decolourise azo dye in a rich medium (MP5) and three different minimal media (MMP5, MMGF11 and MM63) under microaerophilic and anaerobic conditions. Amaranth was used as the model dye in this investigation. Under microaerophilic condition, reactions were carried out at two different temperatures; 37°C and 45°C, whereas experiments with anaerobic condition were conducted only at 37°C. Results showed that, under microaerophilic condition, full decolourisation of Amaranth was achieved in all media tested at 37°C. However, at 45°C, complete decolourisation was observed only in MP5, MM63 and MMGF11 but no obvious decolourisation occurred in MMP5. On the other hand, complete decolourisation was observed in all media tested under anaerobic condition at 37°C, with the fastest decolourisation in MP5 (rich medium containing glucose and nutrient broth) and the slowest in MMP5. It was found that an inorganic buffer containing glucose at lower concentration was sufficient to achieve complete decolourisation under anaerobic condition. This finding is essential to identify a suitable medium for future study on biogas production by dye-degrading bacteria, which mostly requires anaerobic conditions.
AN OPTIMIZATION APPROACH FOR MINIMIZING ENERGY LOSSES OF DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS BASED ON DISTRIBUTED GENERATION PLACEMENT
Authors: Sultana Umbrin , Khairuddin Azhar , Mokhtar A. S. , Qazi Sajid Hussain , Sultana Beenish
Published: April 2017

The interest of electric utilities in distributed energy resources has increased in terms of maximising the latter’s technical, economic and  environmental benefits. This paper presents a Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) -based approach for optimal placement and sizing of multiple Distributed Generation (DG), aimed at reducing active and reactive energy losses in the distribution system. Power system constraints, such as voltage magnitude limits and current boundaries are also considered. Recently, a swarm intelligence technique, namely, GWO was introduced, which is inspired by grey wolves strategy and utilises four categories of grey wolves (alpha, beta, delta and omega) to simulate a leadership hierarchy. The GWO technique and two other popular methods Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Gravitational Search Algorithm (GSA) – are here tested on 15- and 33-bus radial distribution systems. The numerical results obtained using these methods are compared, with the best performance recorded via the proposed GWO method in terms of not only active and reactive energy loss but also voltage profile and convergence characteristics.
POST OCCUPANCY EVALUATION OF RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE BUILDING WITH BIOCLIMATIC DESIGN STRATEGIES IN TROPICAL CLIMATE CONDITION OF MALAYSIA
Authors: Jamaludin Adi Ainurzaman , Hussein Hazreena , Keumala Nila , Mohd Ariffin Ati Rosemary
Published: April 2017

The evaluation through a set of questionnaire and field measurement with the use of climatic devices was conducted in an old residential college building with the best practice of bioclimatic design strategies, particularly on the implementation of daylighting and natural ventilation. Initially, the implementation of these strategies has a significantly positive impact on the satisfaction level of the residents. Temperature and relative humidity range that is accepted as thermally comfortable by university students are 29-30°C and 72-77%, respectively. The comfort level was successfully maintained with a good adaptation of living behaviour including the activity in the room, garment dressed, usage of room opening and electronic devices. Unfortunately, further improvements on natural daylighting are still required based on the negative feedbacks given by the majority of respondents.
LINEAR OPTIMAL CONTROL MODEL FOR FELLING THE OIL PALM TREES
Authors: Nasir Noryanti , Abd Aziz Mohd Ismail , Banitalebi Akbar
Published: April 2017

The increases of operational felling cost have prompted the oil palm industry to look at the current practices. The felling activity is considered as the main aspects to improve and maintain palm oil production through the provision of effective and agronomic practices. To support this success and achieve minimum cost of operation, this study aims to develop a time-invariant linear quadratic optimal control model for controlling the felling and harvest rate of the oil palm plantation. The proposed model involves two state variables which are biomass and crude oil. The optimal parameters for the model are estimated using a set of real data collected from Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB). The study analyzes the solution of the resulting control problem within a limited time frame of 30 years and the results provide an optimal feedback control for the felling and harvest rates.
IMPROVEMENT OF DIPOLE ANTENNA GAIN USING 8 CBU AMC-EBG AND 8 CBU FSS
Authors: Abu Maisarah , Md Ali Siti Adlina , Zabri Siti Normi
Published: April 2017

This paper investigates the performances of dipole antenna incorporated with and without 8 CBU AMC-EBG and 8 CBU FSS at 5.8 GHz. The designs are simulated on Rogers RO 3010. Due to the flexibility of the material used as a substrate, the effect of a different angle is investigated. Both 8 CBU AMC-EBG and 8 CBU FSS act as reasonably good ground plane for the dipole antenna and help improving the realised gain and improve the radiation patterns by push the front lobe at the same time reduce the side lobes. The maximum improvements led by dipole antenna with 8 CBU AMC-EBG thus 8.543 dB of realised gain achieved and the front lobe is pushed higher and the side lobe is significantly lowered than with 8 CBU FSS. The designs of dipole antenna with 8 CBU AMC-EBG and 8 CBU FSS can be applied as high gain  atenna for Intelligent Transport System (ITS).
SORET AND DUFOUR EFFECTS ON UNSTEADY MHD FREE CONVECTIVE FLOW OF MICROPOLAR FLUID WITH OSCILLATORY PLATE VELOCITY CONSIDERING VISCOUS DISSIPATION EFFECTS
Authors: M. D. Shamshuddin , Thumma Thirupathi
Published: April 2017

The present paper deals with the study of micropolar fluid flow of an unsteady incompressible free convection heat and mass transfer flow past a semi-infinite vertical plate fixed firmly in porous medium with the influence of heat absorption, viscous dissipation, Soret, Dufour and chemical reaction has been analyzed. The governing partial differential equations are transformed into a set of coupled partial differential equations using suitable dimensionless quantities. The resulting non-dimensional boundary value problem is solved by the Galerkin finite element method. The effects of different pertinent parameters on translation velocity, microrotation, temperature and concentration distributions along boundary layer have been represented with the help of graphs. Under special case, comparison of the Skin friction, Wall couple stress, Nusselt number and Sherwood number are made with the Numerical results available from the literature obtained through analytical approach and found to be in good agreement.
EFFECTS OF TOTAL CHLORINE FREE (TCF) BLEACHING ON THE CHARACTERISTICS OF CHEMI MECHANICAL (CMP) PULP AND PAPER FROM MALAYSIAN DURIAN (DURIO ZIBETHINUS MURR.) RIND
Authors: Masrol Shaiful Rizal , Ibrahim Mohd Halim Irwan , Adnan Sharmiza , Ahmad Tajudin Muhammad Syauqi Asyraf , Abdul Raub Radhi , Abdul Razak Siti Nurul Aqma , Md Zain Siti Nur Faeza
Published: April 2017

The effects of bleaching process on the characteristics of pulp and paper produced from durian rind under chemi‑mechanical pulping (CMP) method were investigated. All process and characteristic tests were conducted according to Malaysian International Organisation for Standardization (MS ISO) and Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI). Three (3) stages of peroxide (P‑P‑P) bleaching sequence through the Total Chlorine Free (TCF) bleaching process were applied to the unbeaten and unbleached durian rind CMP pulp. Bleached CMP durian rind pulp drainage time (32s) decreased (faster) and CSF freeness level (172.50ml) increased as compared to a control pulp. It was obtained that overall optical (brightness (66.36 %)) and mechanical characteristics (tensile index (38.33 Nm/g), tearing index (7.56 mN.m2/g), bursting index (2.42 kPa.m2/g), and number of folds (43)) of durian rind CMP 60 gsm paper sheet improved as the TCF bleaching process was applied to the unbleached CMP durian rind pulp.
PHYSICO-CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF RECYCLED REFINED, BLEACHED AND DEODORIZED (RBDPO) PALM OLEIN: WHICH CYCLE SHOULD THE OLEIN CONSIDERED SPOILAGE?
Authors: Kadir Ili Afiqa , Jurid Lailatul Syema , Zubairi Saiful Irwan
Published: April 2017

Palm olein is widely used for domestic and commercial frying but its usage beyond recommended cycle might lead to spoilage. Therefore, this study focuses on the comprehensive analysis of chemical and physical properties of recycled palm olein. It was prepared by frying potato strips up to 5 cycles with potato (g)-to-oil (ml) ratio of 3/20 prior to physico-chemical analysis. The temperature profile of RBD palm olein throughout frying also been investigated. It was done by taking the palm olein temperature during the frying of potato strips within 15 minutes for each cycle. There were physico-chemical analyses included colour measurement, viscosity, iodine value, peroxide value, moisture content, contact angle and density. However, according to the present result, peroxide value and contact angle was quite unsuitable or weak for the oil spoilage analysis for the first 5 cycles. Whereas moisture content, colour measurement, density, viscosity and iodine value were insignificant (p>0.05) for all cycles. Thus, those results could not be considered as definite indicators for spoilage assessment. This might be due to the starch composition within the potato strips that shows no changes despite 5 frying cycles. For that reason, further analysis (greater than 5 cycles) is needed to confirm at which oil cycle of that oil should become spoiled.
ACACIA HONEY INDUCES APOPTOSIS IN HUMAN BREAST ADENOCARCINOMA CELL LINES (MCF-7)
Authors: Mohd Salleh Muhammad Ashraf , Eshak Zolkapli , Wan Ismail Wan Iryani
Published: April 2017

Apoptosis is one of markers considered in drug design including in treating cancers. Conventional treatments for cancer cause various side effects. One of possible alternatives is honey, an antioxidant driven by its phenolic and flavonoids content. This study aims to observe the effects of Malaysian Acacia honey in inhibiting breast cancer cell growth through apoptosis. Antioxidant properties of the honey were measured using total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC). Then, antiproliferative activity of the honey were observed using MTT assay. The honey exhibited IC50 at concentration of 5.5% (v/v). Further studies using TUNEL and live cell view revealed that Acacia honey induced apoptosis after 6 hours of treatment. Cell shrinkage, which is one of the apoptotic features, was observed as early as 2 hours, followed by the formation of apoptotic bodies within 6 hours of the honey treatment. Details of mechanism and actual compounds involved in displaying the results are being intensively studied.
PREDICTION OF DISSOLVED OXYGEN ON STEPPED SPILLWAY WITH DIFFERENT CONFIGURATION
Authors: Dermawan Very , Legono Djoko , Krisnayanti Denik Sri
Published: April 2017

The increase of water quality is related to the presence of dissolved oxygen. Even, the oxygen concentration in surface waters is a main indicator of the water quality for human use as well as for the aquatic biota. Air entrainment on stepped spillway is also recognised for its contribution to the oxygen transfer. The oxygen transfer on stepped spillways in skimming flow regime is increased due to earlier self-aeration and slower flow velocities in comparison to smooth spillways. This paper presents the results gained on a physical model by using a variety of different configurations of stepped spillway. The slopes of stepped spillway (θ) used are 30˚ and 45˚, the number of step (N) are 40 and 20, and two types of steps are flat steps and pooled steps. The experiments were conducted for ten Froude number (Fr) run ranging from 1.117 to 9.909. This research aimed to investigate the influence of different configuration in stepped spillway for predicting of dissolved oxygen. The results showed that the dissolved oxygen of the stepped spillway increases with an increase in chute of slope, number of step, and surface roughness on steps. The increases of Froude number as a function of discharge will cause turbulence flow becomes decreases, and the concentration of air bubble in the water will be decreased. The decreased value of turbulence flow will make dissolved oxygen level decrease. In skimming flow condition, the dissolved oxygen level decreases with increasing discharge per unit width especially for steep bed slope.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON UNSATURATED DOUBLE-POROSITY SOIL PHENOMENA UNDER VIBRATION EFFECT
Authors: Foong Loke Kok , Abd Rahman Norhan , Nazir Ramli
Published: April 2017

A physical experiment approach was conducted to observe the deformation of double-porosity soil under vibration effect. The double-porosity soil characteristic was created using kaolin soil. An experiment on a soil sample fitted with accelerometer was conducted on a vibratory table to obtain peak ground acceleration and peak surface acceleration. After the vibration process, the deformable double-porosity soil was verified through field emission scanning electron microscopy tests. As seen in the microscope images, large surface cracks were observed due to the weakness of aggregated kaolin soil structure with its 25% water content. However, the 30% water content soil had small surface cracks due to its stronger soil structure. It was found that the deformable double-porosity soil had more fractured pores compared to the intact soil sample. From the acceleration response analysis, it was seen that both samples had amplification and dis-amplification shaking. In conclusion, the fractured double-porosity, as expected, has high permeability become a dominant factor in fluid migration. Meanwhile, the unconstrained soil and large fracture structure fabric showed significantly different porosity. The percentage of water content plays an important role in the structure of fractured double-porosity soil.
EFFICACY OF PYROLIGNEOUS ACID FROM PINEAPPLE WASTE BIOMASS AS WOOD PRESERVING AGENT
Authors: Yahayu Maizatulakmal , Mahmud Khoirun Nisa , Mahamad Mohammed Nabil , Ngadiran Sulaiman , Lipeh Shahlinney , Ujang Salmiah , Zakaria Zainul Akmar
Published: April 2017

Improper management of lignocellulosic biomass generated from agricultural activities would lead to serious environmental problems. Pyrolysis offers a simple yet efficient alternative technique where Pyroligneous acid (PA) is a major by-product obtained during slow pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass. In this study, the potential anti-termites and anti-fungal properties for PA obtained from the pyrolysis of pineapple waste biomass were investigated. PA from pineapple waste biomass showed insignificant inhibition properties against both Pycnoporus sanguineus and Coriolus versicolor, but were successful in inhibiting the growth of both Aspergillus niger and Botryodiplodia theobromae for 7 days when applied at 70% (v/v) and 100% (v/v) concentrations. PA also exhibited good anti-termites properties based on the 100% mortality of Coptotermes curvignathus after one week incubation. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of phenolic compounds and phenol with ortho substituents such as 2,6-dimethoxyphenol and 2-methoxy-4-methylphenol. Both compounds have been reported to play an important role in termiticidal activity from previous studies. This study indicates that PA from pineapple waste can act as antifungal and antitermite agents but not as anti-wood decaying fungi. This result can be used as a good preliminary indication for future application of PA from pineapple waste biomass as wood preservative.
Design and Analysis of Laminates for Self-Deployment of Viscoelastic Bistable Tape Springs After Long-Term Stowage
Authors: Mao Huina , Shipsha Anton , Tibert Gunnar
Published: May 2017

Bistable tape springs are ultrathin fiber-reinforced polymer composites, which could self-deploy through releasing stored strain energy. Strain energy relaxation is observed after long-term stowage of bistable tape springs due to viscoelastic effects and the tape springs might lose their self-deployment abilities. In order to mitigate the viscoelastic effects and thus ensure self-deployment, different tape springs were designed, manufactured, and tested. Deployment experiments show that a four-layer, [−45/0/90/45], plain weave glass fiber tape spring has a high capability to mitigate the strain energy relaxation effects to ensure self-deployment after long-term stowage in a coiled configuration. The two inner layers increase the deployment force and the outer layers are used to generate the bistability. The presented four-layer tape spring can self-deploy after more than six months of stowage at room temperature. A numerical model was used to assess the long-term stowage effects on the deployment capability of bistable tape springs. The experiments and modeling results show that the viscoelastic strain energy relaxation starts after only a few minutes after coiling. The relaxation shear stiffness decreases as the shear strain increases and is further reduced by strain energy relaxation when a constant shear strain is applied. The numerical model and experiments could be applied in design to predict the deployment force of other types of tape springs with viscoelastic and friction effects included.
Modeling the Effect of Imperfections in Glassblown Micro-Wineglass Fused Quartz Resonators
Authors: Wang Yusheng , Asadian Mohammad H. , Shkel Andrei M.
Published: May 2017

In this paper, we developed an analytical model, supported by experimental results, on the effect of imperfections in glassblown micro-wineglass fused quartz resonators. The analytical model predicting the frequency mismatch due to imperfections was derived based on a combination of the Rayleigh's energy method and the generalized collocation method. The analytically predicted frequency of the n = 2 wineglass mode shape was within 10% of the finite element modeling results and within 20% of the experimental results for thin shells, showing the fidelity of the predictive model. The postprocessing methods for improvement of the resonator surface quality were also studied. We concluded that the thermal reflow of fused quartz achieves the best result, followed in effectiveness by the RCA-1 surface treatment. All the analytical models developed in this paper are to guide the manufacturing methods to reduce the frequency and damping mismatch, and to increase the mechanical quality factor of the device.
Endoscopic nasobiliary drainage: an effective treatment option for benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis (BRIC)
Authors: Choudhury Ashok , Kulkarni Anand V , Sahoo Bishnupriya , Bihari Chhagan
Published: May 2017

Benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis (BRIC) is characterised by recurrent episodes of jaundice, severe pruritus and low or normal serum γ-glutamyltransferase activity lasting from several weeks to months. BRIC is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by the mutation in either of the two hepatic transporter genes—ATP8B1or ABCB11gene. The disease is very well known for episodic flare of jaundice with cholestatic symptoms that are spontaneous or perpetuated by acute insults, followed by self-recovery. There is no proven medical therapy and rarely does it progress to progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) or biliary cirrhosis. BRIC may be associated with nephrolithiasis, diabetes or pancreatitis. Here, we report a case of BRIC with spontaneous flare and further complicated by drug-induced liver injury with disabling cholestastic symptoms, who underwent endoscopic nasobiliary drainage and was completely relieved of the distressing symptoms.
Optical coherence tomography of the Kayser-Fleischer ring: an ancillary diagnostic tool for Wilson’s disease in children
Authors: Rathi Anubha , Takkar Brijesh , Gaur Nripen , Maharana Prafulla Kumar
Published: May 2017

This report presents anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) images of Kayser-Fleischer ring (KFR) in a child. The AS-OCT images highlight differential reflectivity of the KFR depending on amount of copper deposited in cornea, thus supporting the role of AS-OCT as a follow-up tool. Utility of AS-OCT for diagnosing and documenting the KFR in children otherwise uncooperative for detailed slit lamp examination is discussed.
The prevalence of radiographic and MRI-defined patellofemoral osteoarthritis and structural pathology: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hart Harvi F , Stefanik Joshua J , Wyndow Narelle , Machotka Zuzana , Crossley Kay M
Published: April 2017

Background

Patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PF OA) is more prevalent than previously thought and contributes to patient’s suffering from knee OA. Synthesis of prevalence data can provide estimates of the burden of PF OA.

Objective

This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis on the prevalence of PF OA and structural damage based on radiography and MRI studies in different populations.

Methods

We searched six electronic databases and reference lists of relevant cross-sectional and observational studies reporting the prevalence of PF OA. Two independent reviewers appraised methodological quality. Where possible, data were pooled using the following categories: radiography and MRI studies.

Results

Eighty-five studies that reported the prevalence of patellofemoral OA and structural damage were included in this systematic review. Meta-analysis revealed a high prevalence of radiographic PF OA in knee pain or symptomatic knee OA (43%), radiographic knee OA or at risk of developing OA (48%) and radiographic and symptomatic knee OA (57%) cohorts. The MRI-defined structural PF damage in knee pain or symptomatic population was 32% and 52% based on bone marrow lesion and cartilage defect, respectively.

Conclusion

One half of people with knee pain or radiographic OA have patellofemoral involvement. Prevalence of MRI findings was high in symptomatic and asymptomatic population. These pooled data and the variability found can provide evidence for future research addressing risk factors and treatments for PF OA.

Trial registration number

PROSPERO systematic review protocol (CRD42016035649).
Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibition downregulatesHelicobacter pylori-induced epithelial inflammatory responses, DNA damage and gastric carcinogenesis
Authors: Sierra Johanna C , Asim Mohammad , Verriere Thomas G , Piazuelo M Blanca , Suarez Giovanni , Romero-Gallo Judith , Delgado Alberto G , Wroblewski Lydia E , Barry Daniel P , Peek Richard M , Gobert Alain P , Wilson Keith T
Published: May 2017

Objective

Gastric cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide and infection byHelicobacter pyloriis the strongest risk factor. We have reported increased epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) phosphorylation in theH. pylori-induced human carcinogenesis cascade, and association with DNA damage. Our goal was to determine the role of EGFR activation in gastric carcinogenesis.

Design

We evaluated gefitinib, a specific EGFR inhibitor, in chemoprevention ofH. pylori-induced gastric inflammation and cancer development. Mice with genetically targeted epithelial cell-specific deletion ofEgfr(EfgrΔepimice) were also used.

Results

In C57BL/6 mice, gefitinib decreasedCxcl1andCxcl2expression by gastric epithelial cells, myeloperoxidase-positive inflammatory cells in the mucosa and epithelial DNA damage induced byH. pyloriinfection. Similar reductions in chemokines, inflammatory cells and DNA damage occurred in infectedEgfrΔepiversusEgfrfl/flcontrol mice. InH. pylori-infected transgenic insulin-gastrin (INS-GAS) mice and gerbils, gefitinib treatment markedly reduced dysplasia and carcinoma. Gefitinib blockedH. pylori-induced activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase 1/3 (MAPK1/3) and activator protein 1 in gastric epithelial cells, resulting in inhibition of chemokine synthesis. MAPK1/3 phosphorylation and JUN activation was reduced in gastric tissues from infected wild-type and INS-GAS mice treated with gefitinib and in primary epithelial cells fromEfgrΔepiversusEgfrfl/flmice. Epithelial EGFR activation persisted in humans and mice afterH. pylorieradication, and gefitinib reduced gastric carcinoma in INS-GAS mice treated with antibiotics.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that epithelial EGFR inhibition represents a potential strategy to prevent development of gastric carcinoma inH. pylori-infected individuals.
Interdigital reverse flap for a digital mast cell tumour (MCT) in a dog
Authors: Carobbi B.
Published: April 2017

A novel one‐stage reconstructive technique using an interdigital reverse flap was used in five‐year‐old Siberian Husky after resection of a mast cell tumour involving the medial aspect of the II right metacarpal bone and the proximal II phalanx. En bloc excision of the digital mass, including second digit and metacarpal bone, was performed. The result skin defect was too wide to be managed with reconstructive techniques, such as skin relaxing and stretching techniques, and rotating and advancement flaps and was reconstructed with a skin flap harvested from the interdigital skin of the amputated digit. This new technique represents a one‐stage surgical option for reconstruction of skin deficits of the medial and lateral aspects of the metacarpal and metatarsal region in dogs. To author’s knowledge, this technique has never been reported.
Cranial abdominal mass due to Echinococcus multilocularis in a two‐year‐old wirehaired dachshund in Wallonia (Belgium)
Authors: Caron Yannick , Losson Bertrand J , Bayrou Calixte , Linden Annick , Boue Frank
Published: April 2017

A cranial abdominal mass on the left side was detected upon palpation in a two‐and‐a‐half‐year‐old male wirehaired dachshund. No other clinical signs were recorded except exhaustion following exertion, and soft faeces. Abdominal echography showed hepatomegaly with extensive histological alterations; microscopical examination of smears from hepatic mass and fluid punction revealed a low cellularity and protoscolex‐like structures. Following those findings, euthanasia was requested by the owner. Necropsy revealed a severe multifocal chronic active hepatitis with some degree of right ventricular dilatation. Based on histopathology and PCR, a diagnosis of alveolar echinococcosis due to Echinococcus multilocularis was established. The dog was living in the Ardennes region in Belgium known as being endemic for E multilocularis. The present observation is in agreement with a similar canine case previously published and the high prevalence of E multilocularis in the local fox population.
Improved cardiovascular autonomic modulation in transgenic rats expressing an Ang-(1-7)-producing fusion protein
Authors: Dartora Daniela Ravizzoni , Irigoyen Maria-Claudia , Casali Karina Rabello , Moraes-Silva Ivana C. , Bertagnolli Mariane , Bader Michael , Santos Robson A.S.
Published: April 2017

Angiotensin-(1-7) counterbalances angiotensin II cardiovascular effects. However, it has yet to be determined how cardiovascular autonomic modulation may be affected by chronic and acute elevation of Ang-(1-7). Hemodynamics and cardiovascular autonomic profile were evaluated in male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and transgenic rats (TGR) overexpressing Ang-(1-7) [TGR(A1-7)3292]. Blood pressure (BP) was directly measured while cardiovascular autonomic modulation was evaluated by spectral analysis. TGR received A-779 or vehicle and SD rats received Ang-(1-7) or vehicle and were monitored for 5 h after i.v. administration. In another set of experiments with TGR, A-779 was infused for 7 days using osmotic mini pumps. Although at baseline no differences were observed, acute administration of A-779 in TGR produced a marked long-lasting increase in BP accompanied by increased BP variability (BPV) and sympathetic modulation to the vessels. Likewise, chronic administration of A-779 with osmotic mini pumps in TGR increased heart rate, sympathovagal balance, BPV, and sympathetic modulation to the vessels. Administration of Ang-(1-7) to SD rats increased heart rate variability values in 88% accompanied by 8% of vagal modulation increase and 18% of mean BP reduction. These results show that both acute and chronic alteration in the Ang-(1-7)-Mas receptor axis may lead to important changes in the autonomic control of circulation, impacting either sympathetic and (or) parasympathetic systems.
Functional β2-adrenoceptors in rat left atria: effect of foot-shock stress
Authors: Moura André Luiz de , Hyslop Stephen , Grassi-Kassisse Dora M. , Spadari Regina C.
Published: April 2017

Altered sensitivity to the chronotropic effect of catecholamines and a reduction in the β1/β2-adrenoceptor ratio have previously been reported in right atria of stressed rats, human failing heart, and aging. In this report, we investigated whether left atrial inotropism was affected by foot-shock stress. Male rats were submitted to 3 foot-shock sessions and the left atrial inotropic response, adenylyl cyclase activity, and β-adrenoceptor expression were investigated. Left atria of stressed rats were supersensitive to isoprenaline when compared with control rats and this effect was abolished by ICI118,551, a selective β2-receptor antagonist. Schild plot slopes for the antagonism between CGP20712A (a selective β1-receptor antagonist) and isoprenaline differed from unity in atria of stressed but not control rats. Atrial sensitivity to norepinephrine, as well as basal and forskolin- or isoprenaline-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activities were not altered by stress. The effect of isoprenaline on adenylyl cyclase stimulation was partially blocked by ICI118,551 in atrial membranes of stressed rats. These findings indicate that foot-shock stress equally affects inotropism and chronotropism and that β2-adrenoceptor upregulation contributes to the enhanced inotropic response to isoprenaline.
Antioxidant tempol suppresses heart cytosolic phospholipase A2α stimulated by chronic intermittent hypoxia
Authors: Míčová Petra , Klevstig Martina , Holzerová Kristýna , Vecka Marek , Žurmanová Jitka , Neckář Jan , Kolář František , Nováková Olga , Novotný Jiří , Hlaváčková Markéta
Published: April 2017

Adaptation to chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) is associated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation implicated in the improved cardiac tolerance against acute ischemia–reperfusion injury. Phospholipases A2(PLA2s) play an important role in cardiomyocyte phospholipid metabolism influencing membrane homeostasis. Here we aimed to determine the effect of CIH (7000 m, 8 h/day, 5 weeks) on the expression of cytosolic PLA2(cPLA2α), its phosphorylated form (p-cPLA2α), calcium-independent (iPLA2), and secretory (sPLA2IIA) at protein and mRNA levels, as well as fatty acids (FA) profile in left ventricular myocardium of adult male Wistar rats. Chronic administration of antioxidant tempol was used to verify the ROS involvement in CIH effect on PLA2s expression and phospholipid FA remodeling. While CIH did not affect PLA2s mRNA levels, it increased the total cPLA2α protein in cytosol and membranes (by 191% and 38%, respectively) and p-cPLA2α (by 23%) in membranes. On the contrary, both iPLA2and sPLA2IIA were downregulated by CIH. CIH further decreased phospholipid n-6 polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) and increased n-3 PUFA proportion. Tempol treatment prevented only CIH-induced cPLA2α up-regulation and its phosphorylation on Ser505. Our results show that CIH diversely affect myocardial PLA2s and suggest that ROS are responsible for the activation of cPLA2α under these conditions.
Tailoring Medulloblastoma Treatment Through Genomics: Making a Change, One Subgroup at a Time
Authors: Holgado Borja L. , Guerreiro Stucklin Ana , Garzia Livia , Daniels Craig , Taylor Michael D.
Published: May 2017

After more than a decade of genomic studies in medulloblastoma, the time has come to capitalize on the knowledge gained and use it to directly improve patient care. Although metastatic and relapsed disease remain poorly understood, much has changed in how we define medulloblastoma, and it has become evident that with conventional therapies, specific groups of patients are currently under- or overtreated. In this review, we summarize the latest insights into medulloblastoma biology, focusing on how genomics is affecting patient stratification, informing preclinical studies of targeted therapies, and shaping the new generation of clinical trials.
Acute beetroot juice supplementation on sympathetic nerve activity: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled proof-of-concept study
Authors: Notay Karambir , Incognito Anthony V. , Millar Philip J.
Published: May 2017

Acute dietary nitrate ([Formula: see text]) supplementation reduces resting blood pressure in healthy normotensives. This response has been attributed to increased nitric oxide bioavailability and peripheral vasodilation, although nitric oxide also tonically inhibits central sympathetic outflow. We hypothesized that acute dietary [Formula: see text] supplementation using beetroot (BR) juice would reduce blood pressure and muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) at rest and during exercise. Fourteen participants (7 men and 7 women, age: 25 ± 10 yr) underwent blood pressure and MSNA measurements before and after (165–180 min) ingestion of 70ml high-[Formula: see text] (~6.4 mmol [Formula: see text]) BR or [Formula: see text]-depleted BR placebo (PL; ~0.0055 mmol [Formula: see text]) in a double-blind, randomized, crossover design. Blood pressure and MSNA were also collected during 2 min of static handgrip (30% maximal voluntary contraction). The changes in resting MSNA burst frequency (−3 ± 5 vs. 3 ± 4 bursts/min, P = 0.001) and burst incidence (−4 ± 7 vs. 4 ± 5 bursts/100 heart beats, P = 0.002) were lower after BR versus PL, whereas systolic blood pressure (−1 ± 5 vs. 2 ± 5 mmHg, P = 0.30) and diastolic blood pressure (4 ± 5 vs. 5 ± 7 mmHg, P = 0.68) as well as spontaneous arterial sympathetic baroreflex sensitivity ( P = 0.95) were not different. During static handgrip, the change in MSNA burst incidence (1 ± 8 vs. 8 ± 9 bursts/100 heart beats, P = 0.04) was lower after BR versus PL, whereas MSNA burst frequency (6 ± 6 vs. 11 ± 10 bursts/min, P = 0.11) as well as systolic blood pressure (11 ± 7 vs. 12 ± 8 mmHg, P = 0.94) and diastolic blood pressure (11 ± 4 vs. 11 ± 4 mmHg, P = 0.60) were not different. Collectively, these data provide proof of principle that acute BR supplementation can decrease central sympathetic outflow at rest and during exercise. Dietary [Formula: see text] supplementation may represent a novel intervention to target exaggerated sympathetic outflow in clinical populations.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The hemodynamic benefits of dietary nitrate supplementation have been attributed to nitric oxide-mediated peripheral vasodilation. Here, we provide proof of concept that acute dietary nitrate supplementation using beetroot juice can decrease muscle sympathetic outflow at rest and during exercise in a normotensive population. These results have applications for targeting central sympathetic overactivation in disease.
Detachable glass microelectrodes for recording action potentials in active moving organs
Authors: Barbic Mladen , Moreno Angel , Harris Tim D. , Kay Matthew W.
Published: May 2017

Here, we describe new detachable floating glass micropipette electrode devices that provide targeted action potential recordings in active moving organs without requiring constant mechanical constraint or pharmacological inhibition of tissue motion. The technology is based on the concept of a glass micropipette electrode that is held firmly during cell targeting and intracellular insertion, after which a 100-µg glass microelectrode, a “microdevice,” is gently released to remain within the moving organ. The microdevices provide long-term recordings of action potentials, even during millimeter-scale movement of tissue in which the device is embedded. We demonstrate two different glass micropipette electrode holding and detachment designs appropriate for the heart (sharp glass microdevices for cardiac myocytes in rats, guinea pigs, and humans) and the brain (patch glass microdevices for neurons in rats). We explain how microdevices enable measurements of multiple cells within a moving organ that are typically difficult with other technologies. Using sharp microdevices, action potential duration was monitored continuously for 15 min in unconstrained perfused hearts during global ischemia-reperfusion, providing beat-to-beat measurements of changes in action potential duration. Action potentials from neurons in the hippocampus of anesthetized rats were measured with patch microdevices, which provided stable base potentials during long-term recordings. Our results demonstrate that detachable microdevices are an elegant and robust tool to record electrical activity with high temporal resolution and cellular level localization without disturbing the physiological working conditions of the organ.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Cellular action potential measurements within tissue using glass micropipette electrodes usually require tissue immobilization, potentially influencing the physiological relevance of the measurement. Here, we addressed this limitation with novel 100-µg detachable glass microelectrodes that can be precisely positioned to provide long-term measurements of action potential duration during unconstrained tissue movement.
Physical Education in a Thermal Spa Resort to Maintain an Active Lifestyle at Home: A One‐Year Self‐Controlled Follow‐Up Pilot Study
Authors: Maitre Julien , Guinhouya Benjamin , Darrieutort Nicole , Paillard Thierry
Published: April 2017

The self‐controlled follow‐up pilot study was set up to examine the maintenance of engagement in physical activity by a group of older adults in a thermal spa resort, as a consequence of the inclusion of additional physical education sessions within their usual care offers. A cohort of 42 participants (70.4 ± 4.5 years) underwent three weeks of thermal treatment with additional physical education (PE) sessions. Measurements were established during the intervention in 2 periods (baseline and final thermal treatment evaluation) and 4 periods of measurements in the follow‐up (+15 days, +2 months, +6 months, and +1 year). Physical measures (anthropometrics, flexibility, and 6‐minute walk test) and intrapersonal and psychosocial factors as well as health‐related quality of life (HQOL) and physical activity (PA) were self‐reported by participants. Only HQOL and PA were assessed during the follow‐up. One year after a 3‐week PE session combined with the usual thermal care, 64% of the participants exhibited a higher volume of PA than at baseline. The components of the HQOL changed during the follow‐up. This strategy to maintain PA engagement appears to be feasible in a population of thermal care older adults. This work demonstrates the feasibility of a study conducted to maintain physical activity engagement after a thermal treatment.
An Optimal Current Controller Design for a Grid Connected Inverter to Improve Power Quality and Test Commercial PV Inverters
Authors: Algaddafi Ali , Altuwayjiri Saud A. , Ahmed Oday A. , Daho Ibrahim
Published: April 2017

Grid connected inverters play a crucial role in generating energy to be fed to the grid. A filter is commonly used to suppress the switching frequency harmonics produced by the inverter, this being passive, and either an L- or LCL-filter. The latter is smaller in size compared to the L-filter. But choosing the optimal values of the LCL-filter is challenging due to resonance, which can affect stability. This paper presents a simple inverter controller design with an L-filter. The control topology is simple and applied easily using traditional control theory. Fast Fourier Transform analysis is used to compare different grid connected inverter control topologies. The modelled grid connected inverter with the proposed controller complies with the IEEE-1547 standard, and total harmonic distortion of the output current of the modelled inverter has been just 0.25% with an improved output waveform. Experimental work on a commercial PV inverter is then presented, including the effect of strong and weak grid connection. Inverter effects on the resistive load connected at the point of common coupling are presented. Results show that the voltage and current of resistive load, when the grid is interrupted, are increased, which may cause failure or damage for connecting appliances.
A New Hybrid Protocol for Random Access and Data Transmission Based on Two-Phase ACB Mechanisms for M2M Communications
Authors: Wu Yali , Zhang Ningbo , Kang Guixia
Published: April 2017

Machine-to-machine (M2M) communication is considered as one of the key enablers for providing of advanced services and applications. Since M2M features a massive number of user equipment (UE) pieces, one of the key issues is the radio access network (RAN) overload problem for massive connections in M2M communications. In order to improve the number of successful accesses (i.e., the M2M UE pieces that successfully transmit data packets) for M2M communications in the current long term evolution (LTE) systems, we propose a new hybrid protocol for random access (RA) and data transmission based on two-phase access class barring (ACB) mechanisms. Furthermore, the joint optimization algorithm of the two-phase ACB factors and the number of resource blocks (RBs) allocated for RA and data transmission is designed to maximize the number of successful accesses. Finally, simulation results demonstrate that our scheme can significantly improve the number of successful accesses and achieve performance improvement in reducing the grant time.