bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Connections between Social Support and Women’s Physical Activity Involvement: the Cultural Activity Participation Study
Authors: Henderson Karla A. , Ainsworth Barbara E.
Published: August 2016

Cultural influences are often important in shaping women’s approaches to healthy living (Sarto, 1998). The lives of many people of color in American society generally are associated with close family ties and community identification (Keller, 1993). If these assumptions are true, then it may be useful to understand the social dynamics that exist in the lives of African American and American Indian women to better understand health issues related to their participation, or lack of participation, in leisure and physical activities. The purpose of this analysis was to explore the meanings of social support and physical activity as expressed by older African American and American Indian women who participated in the Cultural Activity Participation Study (CAPS). We used a grounded theory approach to analyze data from in-depth qualitative interviews conducted with 56 African American and American Indian women in the United States. Based upon the analysis complex social dynamics occurred that both encouraged and inhibited women’s involvement in physical activities. It was shown that these women’s families and community relationships tended to be more important than their personal identities, and that social support systems had an influence on perceptions of, opportunities for, and involvement in leisure related physical activity.
Insights into neuroepigenetics through human histone deacetylase PET imaging
Authors: Wey Hsiao-Ying , Gilbert Tonya M. , Zürcher Nicole R. , She Angela , Bhanot Anisha , Taillon Brendan D. , Schroeder Fredrick A. , Wang Changing , Haggarty Stephen J. , Hooker Jacob M.
Published: August 2016

First-in-human neuroepigenetic PET imaging with [
11
C]Martinostat reveals conserved region-specific expression of class I HDACs in the healthy brain.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Praziquantel in Ugandan Children with Intestinal Schistosomiasis: Higher Dosages Are Required for Maximal Efficacy
Authors: Bustinduy Amaya L. , Waterhouse David , de Sousa-Figueiredo Jose C. , Roberts Stephen A. , Atuhaire Aaron , Van Dam Govert J. , Corstjens Paul L. A. M. , Scott Janet T. , Stanton Michelle C. , Kabatereine Narcis B. , Ward Stephen , Hope William W. , Stothard J. Russell
Published: August 2016

Each year, millions of African children receive praziquantel (PZQ) by mass drug administration (MDA) to treat schistosomiasis at a standard single dose of 40 mg/kg of body weight, a direct extrapolation from studies of adults. A higher dose of 60 mg/kg is also acceptable for refractory cases. We conducted the first PZQ pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) study in young children comparing dosing. Sixty Ugandan children aged 3 to 8 years old with egg patent
Schistosoma mansoni
received PZQ at either 40 mg/kg or 60 mg/kg. PK parameters of PZQ racemate and enantiomers (
R
and
S
) were quantified. PD outcomes were assessed by standard fecal egg counts and novel schistosome-specific serum (circulating anodic antigen [CAA]) and urine (circulating cathodic antigen [CCA]) antigen assays. Population PK and PD analyses were performed to estimate drug exposure in individual children, and the relationship between drug exposure and parasitological cure was estimated using logistic regression. Monte Carlo simulations were performed to identify better, future dosing regimens. There was marked PK variability between children, but the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) of PZQ was strongly predictive of the parasitological cure rate (CR). Although no child achieved antigenic cure, which is suggestive of an important residual adult worm burden, higher AUC was associated with greater CAA antigenic decline at 24 days. To optimize the performance of PZQ, analysis of our simulations suggest that higher doses (>60 mg/kg) are needed, particularly in smaller children.

IMPORTANCE
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease, typically associated with chronic morbidity, and its control is a global health priority. Praziquantel (PZQ) is the only available antiparasitic drug and is often given out, as a single oral dose (40 mg/kg), to school-aged children by mass drug administration (MDA) schemes operating within preventive chemotherapy campaigns as endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO). This current strategy has several limitations. (i) It excludes preschool children who can be patently infected. (ii) It delivers PZQ at a dose directly extrapolated from adult pharmacological studies. To address these problems, we conducted the first pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic study of young children within an area of Uganda where
Schistosoma mansoni
is hyperendemic. Our results demonstrate that a higher dose (>60 mg/kg) is required, especially in smaller children, and draw attention to the need for further optimization of PZQ treatment based on schistosome antigenic assays, which are more sensitive to pharmacodynamic markers.
Refining Ovarian Cancer Test accuracy Scores (ROCkeTS): protocol for a prospective longitudinal test accuracy study to validate new risk scores in women with symptoms of suspected ovarian cancer
Authors: Sundar Sudha , Rick Caroline , Dowling Francis , Au Pui , Snell Kym , Rai Nirmala , Champaneria Rita , Stobart Hilary , Neal Richard , Davenport Clare , Mallett Susan , Sutton Andrew , Kehoe Sean , Timmerman Dirk , Bourne Tom , Van Calster Ben , Gentry-Maharaj Aleksandra , Menon Usha , Deeks Jon
Published: August 2016

Introduction

Ovarian cancer (OC) is associated with non-specific symptoms such as bloating, making accurate diagnosis challenging: only 1 in 3 women with OC presents through primary care referral. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines recommends sequential testing with CA125 and routine ultrasound in primary care. However, these diagnostic tests have limited sensitivity or specificity. Improving accurate triage in women with vague symptoms is likely to improve mortality by streamlining referral and care pathways. The Refining Ovarian Cancer Test Accuracy Scores (ROCkeTS; HTA 13/13/01) project will derive and validate new tests/risk prediction models that estimate the probability of having OC in women with symptoms. This protocol refers to the prospective study only (phase III).

Methods and analysis

ROCkeTS comprises four parallel phases. The full ROCkeTS protocol can be found athttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/ROCKETS. Phase III is a prospective test accuracy study. The study will recruit 2450 patients from 15 UK sites. Recruited patients complete symptom and anxiety questionnaires, donate a serum sample and undergo ultrasound scored as per International Ovarian Tumour Analysis (IOTA) criteria. Recruitment is at rapid access clinics, emergency departments and elective clinics. Models to be evaluated include those based on ultrasound derived by the IOTA group and novel models derived from analysis of existing data sets. Estimates of sensitivity, specificity, c-statistic (area under receiver operating curve), positive predictive value and negative predictive value of diagnostic tests are evaluated and a calibration plot for models will be presented. ROCkeTS has received ethical approval from the NHS West Midlands REC (14/WM/1241) and is registered on the controlled trials website (ISRCTN17160843) and the National Institute of Health Research Cancer and Reproductive Health portfolios.
A regional EUS service using a collaborative network
Authors: Gordon H M , Lloyd D A J , Higginson A , McCrudden R , Bent C , Shek F W , Beable R , Al-Badri A , Green B , Jaynes E , Foria B , Stacey B S F
Published: August 2016

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is increasingly used in the management of hepatobiliary lesions, allowing staging and tissue acquisition. It is operator-dependent, and fine needle aspiration (FNA) of solid lesions provides an auditable standard; high-volume centres have shown excellent results for solid pancreatic lesion FNA with sensitivities of 92%–97%. The British Society of Gastroenterology guidelines stress that clinical quality should determine service provision, with geographical accessibility a secondary consideration. We set up the Wessex EUS network, working from a single hepatobiliary (HPB) pancreatic multidisciplinary team, with EUS provided in four local centres providing agreed standards and audit. Pancreatic solid lesion FNA results showed a pooled sensitivity of 94%, comparable with high-volume single centres. This demonstrates a network with good clinical governance is a plausible solution to providing a specialist service such as EUS and may be a roadmap that other specialist services under pressure could follow.
Reusable sanitary towels: promoting menstrual hygiene in post-earthquake Nepal
Authors: Budhathoki Shyam Sundar , Bhattachan Meika , Pokharel Paras K , Bhadra Madhurima , van Teijlingen Edwin
Published: August 2016

It is a normal human tendency to ‘run for your life’ when an earthquake occurs. Adolescent girls and women of reproductive age leave their homes with only the clothes they are wearing to save their own and their families' lives. Immediate disaster relief aid with its (unintentional) lack of gender sensitivity has little or no materials for the appropriate management of menstrual hygiene. The biological needs of disaster-affected women will not change despite the dire need for basic food, shelter and security. Timely identification and preparation beforehand with appropriate and culturally sensitive techniques and locally available materials that are reusable can help introduce sustainable and acceptable means of managing menstrual hygiene in a crisis. The use of reusable sanitary towels is well accepted for menstrual hygiene management in non-disaster situations and is appropriate in post-earthquake relief in Nepal.
Sprint interval and moderate-intensity cycling training differentially affect adiposity and aerobic capacity in overweight young-adult women
Authors: Higgins Simon , Fedewa Michael V. , Hathaway Elizabeth D. , Schmidt Michael D. , Evans Ellen M.
Published: August 2016

The purpose of the study was to examine the effects of sprint interval training (SIT) and moderate-intensity continuous cycle training (MICT), with equal estimated energy expenditure during training on body composition and aerobic capacity. Body composition measured via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and aerobic capacity were assessed following 6 weeks of training in previously inactive overweight/obese young women (n = 52; age, 20.4 ± 1.5 years; body mass index, 30.3 ± 4.5 kg·m−2, 67.3% white). Training was performed in a group-exercise format that mimicked cycling classes offered by commercial fitness facilities, and included 3 weekly sessions of either 30-s “all-out” sprints followed by 4 min of active recovery (SIT), or continuous cycling at 60%–70% heart rate reserve to expend a similar amount of energy. Participants were randomized to SIT or MICT, attended a similar number of sessions (15.0 ± 1.5 sessions vs. 15.8 ± 1.9 sessions, P = 0.097) and expended a similar amount of energy (541.8 ± 104.6 kJ·session−1 vs. 553.5 ± 138.1 kJ·session−1, P = 0.250). Without significant changes in body mass (P > 0.05), greater relative reductions occurred in SIT than in MICT in total fat mass (3.6% ± 5.6% vs. 0.6% ± 3.9%, P = 0.007), and android fat mass (6.6% ± 6.9% vs. 0.7% ± 6.5%, P = 0.002). Aerobic capacity (mL·kg−1·min−1) increased significantly following both interventions (P < 0.05), but the relative increase was 2-fold greater in SIT than in MICT (14.09% ± 10.31% vs. 7.06% ± 7.81%, P < 0.001). In conclusion, sprint-interval cycling reduces adiposity and increases aerobic capacity more than continuous moderate-intensity cycling of equal estimated energy expenditure in overweight/obese young women.
Building information modeling utilization for optimizing milling quantity and hot mix asphalt pavement overlay quality
Authors: Bae Abraham , Lee David , Park ByoungYck
Published: August 2016

An approach to a practice paving technique using building information modeling (BIM) was developed. When planning hot mix asphalt (HMA) overlay on a concrete slab, in-advance paving simulations can help to preemptively evaluate pavement quality, such as HMA thickness, and prevent excessive HMA quantity. The BIM technique has the capabilities of ‘in-advance simulation’, ‘3-D visualization’, ‘interference identification’, and ‘quantification’. Building information modeling could be successfully implemented to optimize milling quantity and improve HMA pavement quality in an actual paving project. Based on the established BIM model, alternative paving levels were derived and paving sequences were simulated. Through 3-D visualized images, locations where HMA thickness was inadequate could be effectively identified. Quantified information for simulation results enabled optimization of milling and paving options. Milling was selectively conducted for the identified undulations. The cost was reduced by approximately 12%. Paving thickness and density had coefficients of variation (CV) of approximately 15% and 0.2%, respectively.
Branching systems and general Cuntz–Krieger uniqueness theorem for ultragraph C*-algebras
Authors: Gonçalves Daniel , Li Hui , Royer Danilo
Published: August 2016

We give a notion of branching systems on ultragraphs. From this, we build concrete representations of ultragraph [Formula: see text]-algebras on the bounded linear operators of Hilbert spaces. To each branching system of an ultragraph, we describe the associated Perron–Frobenius operator in terms of the induced representation. We show that every permutative representation of an ultragraph [Formula: see text]-algebra is unitary equivalent to a representation arising from a branching system. We give a sufficient condition on ultragraphs such that a large class of representations of the [Formula: see text]-algebras of these ultragraphs is permutative. To give a sufficient condition on branching systems, so that their induced representations are faithful, we generalize Szymański’s version of the Cuntz–Krieger uniqueness theorem to ultragraph [Formula: see text]-algebras.
Simulating pedestrian flow by an improved two-process cellular automaton model
Authors: Jin Cheng-Jie , Wang Wei , Jiang Rui , Dong Li-Yun
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we study the pedestrian flow with an Improved Two-Process (ITP) cellular automaton model, which is originally proposed by Blue and Adler. Simulations of pedestrian counterflow have been conducted, under both periodic and open boundary conditions. The lane formation phenomenon has been reproduced without using the place exchange rule. We also present and discuss the flow-density and velocity-density relationships of both uni-directional flow and counterflow. By the comparison with the Blue-Adler model, we find the ITP model has higher values of maximum flow, critical density and completely jammed density under different conditions.
Applications of lattice QCD techniques for condensed matter systems
Authors: Buividovich P. V. , Ulybyshev M. V.
Published: August 2016

We review the application of lattice QCD techniques, most notably the Hybrid Monte Carlo (HMC) simulations, to first-principle study of tight-binding models of crystalline solids with strong inter-electron interactions. After providing a basic introduction into the HMC algorithm as applied to condensed matter systems, we review HMC simulations of graphene, which in the recent years have helped to understand the semimetal behavior of clean suspended graphene at the quantitative level. We also briefly summarize other novel physical results obtained in these simulations. Then we comment on the applicability of hybrid Monte Carlo to topological insulators and Dirac and Weyl semimetals and highlight some of the relevant open physical problems. Finally, we also touch upon the lattice strong-coupling expansion technique as applied to condensed matter systems.
Infrared transitions between hydrogenic states in GaInNAs/GaAs quantum wells
Authors: Al E. B. , Ungan F. , Yesilgul U. , Kasapoglu E. , Sari H. , Sökmen I.
Published: August 2016

The effects of nitrogen and indium concentrations on the [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]-like donor impurity energy states in a single [Formula: see text] quantum well (QW) are investigated by variational approach within the effective mass approximation. The results are presented as a function of the well width and the donor impurity position. It is found that the impurity binding and transition energies depend strongly on the indium concentration while depends weakly on the nitrogen concentration.
On the effect of vacancy defect on the mechanical properties of gallium nitride nanosheets
Authors: Rouhi Saeed
Published: August 2016

Using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, the influence of the vacancy defects on the mechanical properties of gallium nitride (GaN) nanosheets is investigated. Two types of defective nanosheets are studied. In one of them, only one atom is removed at the vacancies and in the other, the number of removed atoms is not limited. It is shown that GaN nanosheets with multiple vacancies have larger in-plane elastic modulus than nanosheets with single vacancies. Besides, the ultimate stress and strain of GaN nanosheets are computed. Compared to perfect nanosheet, a significant decrease is observed in the ultimate stress of GaN nanosheet with only 2% defect. By plotting the fracture evolution of nanosheets under uni-directional tensile loading, three different patterns are observed. Moreover, by using bi-directional tensile tests on the nanosheets, the bulk moduli of perfect and defective GaN nanosheets are computed.
A study of the magnetic properties in the Hubbard model on the honeycomb lattice by variational cluster approximation
Authors: Yamada Atsushi
Published: August 2016

Magnetic properties of the half-filled Hubbard model on the honeycomb lattice, which is a simple model of graphene, are studied using the variational cluster approximation (VCA). We found that the critical interaction strength of a magnetic transition is slightly lower than that of the nonmagnetic metal-to-insulator transition and the magnetic order parameter is already nonnegligible at the latter transition point. Thus, a semi-metallic state becomes a magnetic insulator as the interaction strength increases, and a spin liquid state characterized by a Mott insulator without spontaneously broken spatial or spin symmetry, or a state very close to that is not realized in this system. Both the magnetic and nonmagnetic metal-to-insulator transitions are of the second-order. Our results agree with recent large scale quantum Monte Carlo (QMC) simulations.
The electric conductivity characteristics of seawater ionic solution under the influence of magnetic field
Authors: Han Xue-Yun , Peng Yu-Feng , Ma Zhong-Jun
Published: August 2016

The electric conductivity of magnetized and unmagnetized seawater ionic solutions was measured by impedance analyzer (4294A, Agilent Technologies) at 12[Formula: see text]C, 1 KHz. A new relationship model of conductivity and concentration has been established, which fitted both magnetized and unmagnetized samples and was suitable for all the solutions whether at low concentration or at high concentration. Meanwhile, it was found that the magnetic field effect on the conductivity of solution is to some extent due to the changes of thickness and order of water shell around the ion.
Behavior of potential energy surface of C–X bonds in presence of solvent and external electric field: A DFT study
Authors: Sharma Himakshi , Deka Bhabesh Chandra , Bhattacharyya Pradip Kr.
Published: August 2016

The effect of external perturbations, namely solvent and external electric field on potential energy surface (PES) and bond dissociation energy of C–X (X[Formula: see text]F, Cl, Br, N, O) bonds has been studied in the light of density functional theory (DFT). The study reveals that presence of solvent as well as external electric field changes the curvature of the PES significantly. Bond dissociation energy significantly drops in presence of both the external perturbation.
Crystalline two-dimensional nanosheet composed of tetraanionic porphyrins and tetracationic metallomacrocycles
Authors: Nishino Toshio , Yamada Yasuyuki , Tanaka Kentaro
Published: August 2016

A tetraanionic porphyrin and a tetracationic metallomacrocycle formed a layered two-dimensional nanosheet through multiple electrostatic interactions. X-ray crystallography revealed that the sheet is an ionic lattice composed of [Formula: see text]-conjugated components
Dirac and Weyl Materials: Fundamental Aspects and Some Spintronics Applications
Authors: Yang Shengyuan A.
Published: August 2016

Dirac and Weyl materials refer to a class of solid materials which host low-energy quasiparticle excitations that can be described by the Dirac and Weyl equations in relativistic quantum mechanics. Starting with the advent of graphene as the first prominent example, these materials have been attracting tremendous interest owing to their novel fundamental properties as well as the great potential for applications. Here we introduce the basic concepts and notions related to Dirac and Weyl materials and briefly review some recent works in this field, particularly on the conceptual development and the possible spintronics/pseudospintronics applications.
The application of portable XRF and benchtop SEM-EDS to Cu-Pd exploration in the Coldwell Alkaline Complex, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Cao Y. H. , Linnen R. L. , Good D. J. , Samson I. M. , Epstein R.
Published: August 2016

Mineral exploration is increasingly taking advantage of real time techniques that dramatically reduce the costs and time taken to obtain results compared to traditional analytical methods. Portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) is now a well-established technique that is used to acquire lithogeochemical data. To date, however, benchtop scanning electron microscopes, equipped with energy dispersive systems (bSEM-EDS) have received little attention as a possible mineral exploration tool.

This study examines the utility of combining pXRF and bSEM-EDS to characterize the igneous stratigraphy and its relationship to Cu-Pd mineralization in a drill hole at the Four Dams occurrence, located within the Eastern Gabbro assemblage of the Coldwell Alkaline Complex, Canada.

The first part of this study compares field portable and laboratory techniques. Seventy-two powdered samples analysed by pXRF are compared with traditional major elements analysed by inductively coupled atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) and trace elements by inductively coupled plasma spectrometry (ICP-MS), and the compositions of 128 olivine, clinopyroxene and plagioclase grains analysed by bSEM-EDS are compared with traditional electron microprobe data. Our results show that each portable technique yields results similar to their lab-based counterparts within the analytical capabilities and precisions of the respective instruments.

The second part presents a case study for the application of pXRF and bSEM-EDS to resolve questions related to igneous stratigraphy as an aid to mineral exploration in a complicated geological setting. A major problem for Cu-Pd exploration in the Coldwell Complex of NW Ontario is that the oxide-rich units that host Cu-Pd mineralization in the Marathon Series are petrographically similar to the barren oxide-rich units in the Layered Series. However, the mineralized units are geochemically distinctive. Our results show that the mineralized Marathon Series can be distinguished from the barren Layered Series, including oxide-rich units of both, by combinations of P
2
O
5
, Ba, Zr and V/Ti values, determined by pXRF, combined with plagioclase, olivine or clinopyroxene compositions measured by bSEM-EDS. The combination of pXRF and bSEM-EDS thus shows considerable promise as an exploration technique.

Supplementary material:
Comparisons of pXRF analyses with ICP-AES, ICP-MS and IR analysis are available at
http://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.3291518
Heart rate variability during high heat stress: a comparison between young and older adults with and without Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Carrillo Andres E. , Flouris Andreas D. , Herry Christophe L. , Poirier Martin P. , Boulay Pierre , Dervis Sheila , Friesen Brian J. , Malcolm Janine , Sigal Ronald J. , Seely Andrew J. E. , Kenny Glen P.
Published: August 2016

We examined whether older individuals with and without Type 2 diabetes (T2D) experience differences in heart rate variability (HRV) during a 3-h exposure to high heat stress compared with young adults. Young (Young; n = 22; 23 ± 3 yr) and older individuals with (T2D; n = 11; 59 ± 9 yr) and without (Older; n = 25; 63 ± 5 yr) T2D were exposed to heat stress (44°C, 30% relative humidity) for 3 h. Fifty-five HRV measures were assessed for 15 min at baseline and at minutes 82.5–97.5 (Mid) and minutes 165–180 (End) during heat stress. When compared with Young, a similar number of HRV indices were significantly different ( P < 0.05) in Older (Baseline: 35; Mid: 29; End: 32) and T2D (Baseline: 31; Mid: 30; End: 27). In contrast, the number of HRV indices significantly different ( P < 0.05) between Older and T2D were far fewer (Baseline: 13, Mid: 1, End: 3). Within-group analyses demonstrated a greater change in the Young group's HRV during heat stress compared with Older and T2D; the number of significantly different ( P < 0.05) HRV indices between baseline and End were 42, 29, and 20, for Young, Older, and T2D, respectively. Analysis of specific HRV domains suggest that the Young group experienced greater sympathetic activity during heat stress compared with Older and T2D. In conclusion, when compared with young, older individuals with and without T2D demonstrate low HRV at baseline and less change in HRV (including an attenuated sympathetic response) during 3 h high heat stress, potentially contributing to impaired thermoregulatory function.
Contextual processing in unpredictable auditory environments: the limited resource model of auditory refractoriness in the rhesus
Authors: Teichert Tobias , Gurnsey Kate , Salisbury Dean , Sweet Robert A.
Published: August 2016

Auditory refractoriness refers to the finding of smaller electroencephalographic (EEG) responses to tones preceded by shorter periods of silence. To date, its physiological mechanisms remain unclear, limiting the insights gained from findings of abnormal refractoriness in individuals with schizophrenia. To resolve this roadblock, we studied auditory refractoriness in the rhesus, one of the most important animal models of auditory function, using grids of up to 32 chronically implanted cranial EEG electrodes. Four macaques passively listened to sounds whose identity and timing was random, thus preventing animals from forming valid predictions about upcoming sounds. Stimulus onset asynchrony ranged between 0.2 and 12.8 s, thus encompassing the clinically relevant timescale of refractoriness. Our results show refractoriness in all 8 previously identified middle- and long-latency components that peaked between 14 and 170 ms after tone onset. Refractoriness may reflect the formation and gradual decay of a basic sensory memory trace that may be mirrored by the expenditure and gradual recovery of a limited physiological resource that determines generator excitability. For all 8 components, results were consistent with the assumption that processing of each tone expends ∼65% of the available resource. Differences between components are caused by how quickly the resource recovers. Recovery time constants of different components ranged between 0.5 and 2 s. This work provides a solid conceptual, methodological, and computational foundation to dissect the physiological mechanisms of auditory refractoriness in the rhesus. Such knowledge may, in turn, help develop novel pharmacological, mechanism-targeted interventions.
Nonreciprocal mechanisms in up- and downregulation of spinal motoneuron excitability by modulators of KCNQ/Kv7 channels
Authors: Lombardo Joseph , Harrington Melissa A.
Published: August 2016

KCNQ/Kv7 channels form a slow noninactivating K+ current, also known as the M current. They activate in the subthreshold range of membrane potentials and regulate different aspects of excitability in neurons of the central nervous system. In spinal motoneurons (MNs), KCNQ/Kv7 channels have been identified in the somata, axonal initial segment, and nodes of Ranvier, where they generate a slow, noninactivating, K+ current sensitive to both muscarinic receptor-mediated inhibition and KCNQ/Kv7 channel blockers. In this study, we thoroughly reevaluated the function of up- and downregulation of KCNQ/Kv7 channels in mouse immature spinal MNs. Using electrophysiological techniques together with specific pharmacological modulators of the activity of KCNQ/Kv7 channels, we show that enhancement of the activity of these channels decreases the excitability of spinal MNs in mouse neonates. This action on MNs results from a combination of hyperpolarization of the resting membrane potential, a decrease in the input resistance, and depolarization of the voltage threshold. On the other hand, the effect of inhibition of KCNQ/Kv7 channels suggested that these channels play a limited role in regulating basal excitability. Computer simulations confirmed that pharmacological enhancement of KCNQ/Kv7 channel activity decreases excitability and also suggested that the effects of inhibition of KCNQ/Kv7 channels on the excitability of spinal MNs do not depend on a direct effect in these neurons but likely on spinal cord synaptic partners. These results indicate that KCNQ/Kv7 channels have a fundamental role in the modulation of the excitability of spinal MNs acting both in these neurons and in their local presynaptic partners.
Modelling Blast Effects on a Reinforced Concrete Bridge
Authors: Andreou Markellos , Kotsoglou Anastasios , Pantazopoulou Stavroula
Published: August 2016

The detailed investigation of blast phenomena and their catastrophic effects on existing structures are the main objectives of the present paper. It is well known that blast phenomena may be characterized by significant complexity, often involving complicated wave propagation effects as well as distinguishable material behaviors. Considering the above and in an attempt to provide a simplified modelling approach for the simulation of blast effects, a novel procedure is presented herein based on well-established methodologies and common engineering practices. In the above framework, firstly, the “predominant” deformation shape of the structure is estimated based on elastic finite element simulations under blast loads and then the structural response of the system is evaluated as a result of common computational beam-element tools such as displacement-based pushover analysis. The proposed methodology provides an immediate first estimation of the structural behavior under blast loads, based on familiar engineering procedures. A two-span reinforced concrete bridge was thoroughly investigated and the results provide insightful information regarding the damage patterns and localization.
Effect of Long-Term Use of Bisphosphonates on Forearm Bone: Atypical Ulna Fractures in Elderly Woman with Osteoporosis
Authors: Erdem Yusuf , Atbasi Zafer , Emre Tuluhan Yunus , Kavadar Gülis , Demiralp Bahtiyar
Published: August 2016

Osteoporosis is a common musculoskeletal disease of the elderly population characterized by decreased bone mineral density and subsequent fractures. Bisphosphonates are a widely accepted drug therapy which act through inhibition of bone resorption and prevent fractures. However, in long-term use, atypical bisphosphonate induced fractures may occur, particularly involving the lower weight bearing extremity. Atypical ulna fracture associated with long-term bisphosphonate use is rarely reported in current literature. We present a 62-year-old woman with atypical ulna due to long-term alendronate therapy without a history of trauma or fall. Clinicians should be aware of stress fracture in a patient who has complaints of upper extremity pain and history of long-term bisphosphonate therapy.
GSTP1Methylation and Protein Expression in Prostate Cancer: Diagnostic Implications
Authors: Martignano Filippo , Gurioli Giorgia , Salvi Samanta , Calistri Daniele , Costantini Matteo , Gunelli Roberta , De Giorgi Ugo , Foca Flavia , Casadio Valentina
Published: August 2016

GSTP1belongs to the GSTs family, a group of enzymes involved in detoxification of exogenous substances and it also plays an important role in cell cycle regulation. Its dysregulation correlates with a large variety of tumors, in particular with prostate cancer. We investigatedGSTP1methylation status with methylation specific PCR (MS-PCR) in prostate cancer (PCa) and in benign tissue of 56 prostatectomies. We also performed immunohistochemistry (IHC) so as to correlate gene methylation with gene silencing.GSTP1appears methylated in PCa and not in healthy tissue; IHC confirmed that methylation leads to protein underexpression (p<0.001). GSTP1 is highly expressed in basal cell layer and luminal cells in benign glands while in prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) it stains only basal cell layer, whereas PCa glands are completely negative. We demonstrated that methylation leads to underexpression of GSTP1. The progressive loss of GSTP1 expression from healthy glands to PIN and to PCa glands underlines its involvement in early carcinogenesis.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Piperazine Containing Hydrazone Derivatives
Authors: Kaya Betül , Özkay Yusuf , Temel Halide Edip , Kaplancıklı Zafer Asım
Published: August 2016

Some hydrazone derivatives were synthesized and their potential anticholinesterase activities were examined. A series of eleven new compounds of N′-(2,4-disubstitutedbenzylidene)-2-(4-(4-nitrophenyl)piperazin-1-yl)acetohydrazide derivatives were obtained via reaction of 2-[4-(4-nitrophenyl)piperazin-1-yl]acetohydrazide with aromatic aldehydes. The chemical structures of the compounds were enlightened by FT-IR,1H-NMR,13C-NMR, and HRMS (ESI) spectral data. The inhibition potency of the compounds3a–kagainst AChE and BuChE was measured and evaluated using a modification of Ellman’s spectrophotometric method. Among the tested compounds, compound3cwas assigned to be the most active derivative. Galantamine was used as a standard drug.
A Hybrid Algorithm of Particle Swarm Optimization and Tabu Search for Distribution Network Reconfiguration
Authors: Fang Sidun , Zhang Xiaochen
Published: August 2016

This paper deals with the distribution network reconfiguration problem. A hybrid algorithm of particle swarm optimization (PSO) and tabu search (TS) is proposed as the searching algorithm. The new algorithm shares the advantages of PSO and TS, which has a fast computation speed and a strong ability to avoid local optimal solution. After a thorough comparison, network random key (NRK) is introduced as the corresponding coding strategy among various tree representation strategies. NRK could completely avoid the generation of infeasible solutions during the searching process and has a good locality property, which allows the new hybrid algorithm to perform to its fullest potential. The proposed algorithm has been validated through an IEEE 33 bus test case. Compared with other algorithms, the proposed method is both accurate and computationally efficient. Furthermore, a test to solve another problem also proves the robustness of the proposed algorithm for a different problem.
T Helper Cell Subsets in Clinical Manifestations of Psoriasis
Authors: Diani Marco , Altomare Gianfranco , Reali Eva
Published: August 2016

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, which is associated with systemic inflammation and comorbidities, such as psoriatic arthritis and cardiovascular diseases. The autoimmune nature of psoriasis has been established only recently, conferring a central role to epidermal CD8 T cells recognizing self-epitopes in the initial phase of the disease. Different subsets of helper cells have also been reported as key players in the psoriasis pathogenesis. Here, we reviewed the knowledge on the role of each subset in the psoriatic cascade and in the different clinical manifestations of the disease. We will discuss the role of Th1 and Th17 cells in the initiation and in the amplification phase of cutaneous inflammation. Moreover, we will discuss the recently proposed role of tissue resident Th22 cells in disease memory in sites of recurrent psoriasis and the possible involvement of Th9 cells. Finally, we will discuss the hypothesis of a link between T helper cell subsets recirculating from the skin and the systemic manifestations of psoriasis.
Antidiabetic Properties, Bioactive Constituents, and Other Therapeutic Effects of Scoparia dulcis
Authors: Pamunuwa Geethi , Karunaratne D. Nedra , Waisundara Viduranga Y.
Published: August 2016

This review discusses the antidiabetic activities of Scoparia dulcis as well as its antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties in relation to the diabetes and its complications. Ethnomedical applications of the herb have been identified as treatment for jaundice, stomach problems, skin disease, fever, and kidney stones, reproductory issues, and piles. Evidence has been demonstrated through scientific studies as to the antidiabetic effects of crude extracts of S. dulcis as well as its bioactive constituents. The primary mechanisms of action of antidiabetic activity of the plant and its bioactive constituents are through α‐glucosidase inhibition, curbing of PPAR‐γ and increased secretion of insulin. Scoparic acid A, scoparic acid D, scutellarein, apigenin, luteolin, coixol, and glutinol are some of the compounds which have been identified as responsible for these mechanisms of action. S. dulcis has also been shown to exhibit analgesic, antimalarial, hepatoprotective, sedative, hypnotic, antiulcer, antisickling, and antimicrobial activities. Given this evidence, it may be concluded that S. dulcis could be promoted among the masses as an alternative and complementary therapy for diabetes, provided further scientific studies on the toxicological and pharmacological aspects are carried out through either in vivo or clinical means.
Tuberculosis as an Etiological Factor in Liver Abscess in Adults
Authors: Dey Jaideep , Gautam Hitender , Venugopal Shwetha , Porwal Chhavi , Mirdha Bijay Ranjan , Gupta Naresh , Singh Urvashi B.
Published: August 2016

Background. Tuberculosis of the liver without active pulmonary or miliary tuberculosis is considered as an uncommon diagnosis. The aim of the present study was to determine the etiological role of tuberculosis in adult patients presenting with features of liver abscess.Methods. A total of 40 patients with liver abscess were included in the study. The liver abscess aspirate was subjected to microscopy, culture, and polymerase chain reaction to determine the role of tuberculosis as an etiological factor in liver abscess.Results. Of the 40 patients enrolled, 25% (10/40) were diagnosed with having tubercular liver abscess. In a total of 40 specimens, 2.5% (1/40) were positive for acid fast bacilli by Ziehl-Neelsen method, while 10% (4/40) were positive forM. tuberculosisby culture using BACTEC 460 and the yield increased to 25% (10/40) by polymerase chain reaction forM. tuberculosis.Conclusion. 25% of the patients presenting with liver abscess had tubercular etiology without features of active pulmonary or miliary tuberculosis. Liver can act as the primary site of involvement in the absence of activity elsewhere in the body. Tuberculosis should be considered as an important differential diagnosis of liver abscess irrespective of evidence of active tuberculosis elsewhere in the body.
Endoscopic-Assisted Scleral Fixated IOL in the Management of Secondary Aphakia in Children
Authors: El Gendy Heba A. , Khalil Hossam Eldin , Haroun Hazem Effat , El Deeb Mohamed Wagieh
Published: August 2016

Purpose. To evaluate the short-term postoperative outcomes in endoscopic-assisted sclera fixation intraocular lens (IOL) for the management of secondary aphakia in children.Methods. This is a prospective study, whereas 40 aphakic eyes with absence of a good capsular support were implanted by endoscopy-assisted sclera fixation technique.Results. No major intraoperative complications were recorded. All cases were followed up for 6 months. Only transient ocular hypertension occurred in 10 (25%) eyes. Lens decentration and/or tilting were clinically detected in 2 eyes (5%). Ultrasonic biomicroscopic (UBM) examination revealed lens tilting in 2 (5%) of the operated eyes, despite the proper haptics positioning in the ciliary sulcus. Postoperative vitreous hemorrhage was reported in 5 eyes (12.5%) in the early postoperative period and retinal detachment in one eye. A postoperative refractive astigmatism ranging from 0.75 D to 3.75 D (mean 1.7 D ± 0.79) was recorded, as compared to mean preoperative values of 2.00 D, with no statistically significant differences being recorded (p≥0.05). An improvement of BCVA, 1-2 lines on Snellen chart at the end of the follow-up period, was detected in 23 eyes (57.5%) with a mean of0.6±0.08 SD, as compared to a preoperative mean values of0.5±0.07 SD (p≥0.05).Conclusion. Using an endoscope for transscleral suturing of intraocular lenses in aphakic pediatric eyes might be considered as being an effective technique that can reduce surgical complications, especially postoperative lens decentration.
The Role of Catheter Angiography in the Diagnosis of Central Nervous System Vasculitis
Authors: Edgell Randall C. , Sarhan Ahmed E. , Soomro Jazba , Einertson Collin , Kemp Joanna , Shirani Peyman , Malmstrom Theodore K. , Coppens Jeroen
Published: August 2016

Background: Central nervous system vasculitis (CNSV) is a rare disorder, the pathophysiology of which is not fully understood. It involves a combination of inflammation and thrombosis. CNSV is most commonly associated with headache, gradual changes in mental status, and focal neurological symptoms. Diagnosis requires the effective use of history, laboratory testing, imaging, and biopsy. Catheter angiography can be a powerful tool in the diagnosis when common and low-frequency angiographic manifestations of CNSV are considered. We review these manifestations and their place in the diagnostic algorithm of CNSV. Summary: We reviewed the PubMed database for case series of CNSV that included 5 or more patients. Demographic and angiographic findings were collected. Angiographic findings were dichotomized between common and low-frequency findings. A system for incorporating these findings into clinical decision-making is proposed. Key Message: CNSV is a diagnostic challenge due to the absence of a true gold standard test. In the absence of such a test, catheter angiography remains a central piece of the diagnostic puzzle when appropriately employed and interpreted.
Use of the Coelomic Grafting Technique for Prolonged ex utero Cultivation of Late Preprimitive Streak-Stage Rabbit Embryos
Authors: Püschel Bernd , Männer Jörg
Published: August 2016

Due to its morphological similarity with the early human embryo, the pregastrulation-stage rabbit may represent an appropriate mammalian model for studying processes involved in early human development. The usability of mammalian embryos for experimental studies depends on the availability of whole embryo culture methods facilitating prolonged ex utero development. While currently used culture methods yield high success rates for embryos from primitive streak stages onward, the success rate of extended cultivation of preprimitive streak-stage mammalian embryos is low for all previously established methods and for all studied species. This limits the usability of preprimitive streak-stage rabbit embryos in experimental embryology. We have tested whether the extraembryonic coelom of 4-day-old chick embryos may be used for prolonged ex utero culture of preprimitive streak-stage rabbit embryos (stage 2, 6.2 days post coitum). We found that, within this environment, stage 2 rabbit blastocysts can be cultured at decreasing success rates (55% after 1 day, 35% after 2 days, 15% after 3 days) up to a maximum of 72 h. Grafted blastocysts can continue development from the onset of gastrulation to early organogenesis and thereby form all structures characterizing age-matched controls (e.g. neural tube, somites, beating heart). Compared to normal controls, successfully cultured embryos developed at a slower rate and finally showed some structural and gross morphological anomalies. The method presented here was originally developed for whole embryo culture of mouse embryos by Gluecksohn-Schoenheimer in 1941. It is a simple and inexpensive method that may represent a useful extension to presently available ex utero culture systems for rabbit embryos.
Tailored Therapist-Guided Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Treatment for Psoriasis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: van Beugen Sylvia , Ferwerda Maaike , Spillekom-van Koulil Saskia , Smit Jurgen V. , Zeeuwen-Franssen Manon E.J. , Kroft Elisabeth B.M. , de Jong Elke M.G.J. , Otero Marisol E. , Donders A. Rogier T. , van de Kerkhof Peter C.M. , van Middendorp Henriët , Evers Andrea W.M.
Published: August 2016

Objective: Patients with somatic conditions, such as psoriasis, frequently suffer from high burden of their disease in daily life and might benefit from internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) tailored to their adjustment problems. The aim of this multicenter randomized controlled trial was to examine the effects of therapist-guided, individually tailored ICBT in a clinical sample of patients with psoriasis. Methods: A total of 131 patients with psoriasis, who were screened for a psychological risk profile, were randomized to either care as usual (CAU, n = 66) or ICBT in addition to CAU (n = 65). Participants filled out standardized self-report questionnaires assessing physical and psychological functioning and impact on daily activities at baseline, posttreatment assessment, and 6-month follow-up. Results: In covariate-controlled linear mixed-model analyses, significantly larger improvements in ICBT compared to CAU were found in the primary outcomes physical functioning (p = 0.03, d = 0.36) and impact on daily activities (p = 0.04, d = 0.35), but not in psychological functioning (p = 0.32), up to 6 months after treatment compared to baseline. In explorative analyses, the working alliance measured at the beginning of ICBT treatment predicted improved physical (p = 0.02) and psychological (p < 0.001) outcomes. Conclusions: Results underline the promise of therapist-guided, individually tailored ICBT to improve physical functioning and reduce the impact of psoriasis on daily activities in patients with a psychological risk profile. Establishing a good therapeutic relationship early on may be an important factor that influences treatment outcomes in personalized ICBT interventions. Further research is needed to evaluate ICBT effectiveness in additional samples and to explore its underlying mechanisms.