bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Algorithm Based Microscale Vehicle Emissions Modelling
Authors: Zhu Sicong , Tey LiSian , Ferreira Luis
Published: December 2015

There is a need to match emission estimations accuracy with the outputs of transport models. The overall error rate in long-term traffic forecasts resulting from strategic transport models is likely to be significant. Microsimulation models, whilst high-resolution in nature, may have similar measurement errors if they use the outputs of strategic models to obtain traffic demand predictions. At the microlevel, this paper discusses the limitations of existing emissions estimation approaches. Emission models for predicting emission pollutants other than CO2are proposed. A genetic algorithm approach is adopted to select the predicting variables for the black box model. The approach is capable of solving combinatorial optimization problems. Overall, the emission prediction results reveal that the proposed new models outperform conventional equations in terms of accuracy and robustness.
The Optimal Insurance Policy for the General Fixed Cost of Handling an Indemnity under Rank-Dependent Expected Utility
Authors: Deng Liurui
Published: December 2015

Based on Bernard et al.’s research, we focus on the Pareto optimal insurance design with the insured’s Rank-Dependent Expected Utility (RDEU). Compared with their previous work, our novelties are the more general fixed cost function of the insurer and the discussion of adverse selection and moral hazard. In particular, Bernard et al. only consider the case in which the fixed cost function of handling an indemnity is the linear function. However, the fixed cost function is not just linear functions in real insurance market. So, we explore the more general fixed cost function including both the linear and nonlinear functions. On the other hand, we consider adverse selection and moral hazard which are involved by Bernard et al. Leading adverse selection and moral hazard into our research makes our results more practical and meaningful. Moreover, we provide an insight into the sensitivity of an optimal solution for the insured’s initial wealth and the parameters related to the fixed cost function of handling an indemnity. We further compare the two different utility functions of the insured in terms of influence of optimal policy analysis.
On Probabilistic Alpha-Fuzzy Fixed Points and Related Convergence Results in Probabilistic Metric and Menger Spaces under Some Pompeiu-Hausdorff-Like Probabilistic Contractive Conditions
Authors: De la Sen M.
Published: December 2015

In the framework of complete probabilistic metric spaces and, in particular, in probabilistic Menger spaces, this paper investigates some relevant properties of convergence of sequences to probabilisticα-fuzzy fixed points under some types of probabilistic contractive conditions.
A Validated TLC-Densitometric Method for the Determination of Mesterolone in Bulk Material and in Tablets
Authors: Dołowy Małgorzata , Pyka-Pająk Alina , Filip Katarzyna , Zagrodzka Joanna
Published: December 2015

Mesterolone is a synthetic androgenic steroid indicating a weak anabolic activity. A new, simple in use, and economical TLC-densitometric method in normal phase system (NP-TLC) has been developed and validated for the identification and quantitative determination of mesterolone in bulk drug and in tablet formulation. NP-TLC analysis was performed on aluminium plates precoated with silica gel 60F254as the stationary phase using chloroform-acetone (40 : 10, v/v) as mobile phase. Densitometric analysis was carried out atλ=745 nm after staining with phosphomolybdic acid. These conditions were found to give visible (dark blue) spot and sharp peak, respectively, for mesterolone atRF  0.75±0.02and enabled satisfactory separation of mesterolone from its related substance (potential impurity). The proposed NP-TLC-densitometric method was validated for specificity, linearity, precision, accuracy, robustness, and sensitivity according to ICH guideline and other validation requirements. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were 61.0 ng·spot−1and 184.0 ng·spot−1, respectively. The percent content of mesterolone in marketed tablet formulation was found to be 99.40% of label claim. The developed TLC-densitometric method can be successfully used in quality control of mesterolone in bulk material and also tablet formulation.
Synthesis, Structure, and Electrical Property of Ce1−xSr1+xGa3O7−δ
Authors: Li Xiaohui , Xu Jungu , Xiaofeng Junshu , Kuang Xiaojun
Published: December 2015

Ce1−xSr1+xGa3O7−δpowders were synthesized by a solid state reaction method under reducing atmosphere. Single melilite phase was obtained forx≤0.2. X-ray diffraction pattern displays a preferred orientation on (002) peak of the Ce0.9Sr1.1Ga3O7−δcomposition. Scanning electron microscope disclosed the nanoscale needle-like micromorphology of this material, with an average length of ~2.5 μm and a diameter of ~500 nm. Transmission electron microscopy and selected area electron diffraction reveal the single crystal nature of these individual Ce0.9Sr1.1Ga3O7−δneedles and build up a relationship between the preferred orientation observed in X-ray diffraction pattern and the micromorphology. The phase stability of Ce1−xSr1+xGa3O7−δin air was studied and the electrical property was investigated by impedance spectroscopy.
Effect of Cultivation Time and Medium Condition in Production of Bacterial Cellulose Nanofiber for Urease Immobilization
Authors: Pesaran M. , Amoabediny Gh. , Yazdian F.
Published: December 2015

A new nanoporous biomatrix originated from bacterial resources has been chosen for urease immobilization. Urease has been immobilized on synthesized bacterial cellulose nanofiber since this enzyme has a key role in nitrogen metabolism.Gluconacetobacter xylinumATCC 10245 has been cultivated for synthesis of a nanofiber with the diameter of 30–70 nm. Different cultivation processes in the aspect of time and cultivation medium conditions were chosen to study the performance of immobilized enzyme on four types of bacterial cellulose nanofibers (BCNs). Urease immobilization into the nanofiber has been done in two steps: enzyme adsorption and glutaraldehyde cross-linking. The results showed that the immobilized enzymes were relatively active and highly stable compared to the control samples of free enzymes. Optimum pH was obtained 6.5 and 7 for different synthesized BCNs, while the optimum temperature for immobilized urease was 50°C. Finding of the current experiment illustrated that the immobilized enzyme in optimum condition lost its initial activity by 41% after 15 weeks.
Secretion of S100A8, S100A9, and S100A12 by Neutrophils Involves Reactive Oxygen Species and Potassium Efflux
Authors: Tardif Mélanie R. , Chapeton-Montes Julie Andrea , Posvandzic Alma , Pagé Nathalie , Gilbert Caroline , Tessier Philippe A.
Published: December 2015

S100A8/A9 (calprotectin) and S100A12 proinflammatory mediators are found at inflammatory sites and in the serum of patients with inflammatory or autoimmune diseases. These cytoplasmic proteins are secreted by neutrophils at sites of inflammation via alternative secretion pathways of which little is known. This study examined the nature of the stimuli leading to S100A8/A9 and S100A12 secretion as well as the mechanism involved in this alternative secretion pathway. Chemotactic agents, cytokines, and particulate molecules were used to stimulate human neutrophils. MSU crystals, PMA, and H2O2induced the release of S100A8, S100A9, and S100A12 homodimers, as well as S100A8/A9 heterodimer. High concentrations of S100A8/A9 and S100A12 were secreted in response to nanoparticles like MSU, silica, TiO2, fullerene, and single-wall carbon nanotubes as well as in response to microbe-derived molecules, such as zymosan or HKCA. However, neutrophils exposed to the chemotactic factors fMLP failed to secrete S100A8/A9 or S100A12. Secretion of S100A8/A9 was dependent on the production of reactive oxygen species and required K+exchanges through the ATP-sensitive K+channel. Altogether, these findings suggest that S100A12 and S100A8/A9 are secreted independently either via distinct mechanisms of secretion or following the activation of different signal transduction pathways.
Preparation and Characterization of Highly Flexible Al2O3/Al/Al2O3 Hybrid Composite
Authors: Wang Zhijiang , Hu Henry , Nie Xueyuan
Published: December 2015

The natural brittleness of oxide ceramics heavily inhibits their more extensive applications. In present research, a highly flexible Al2O3/Al/Al2O3 hybrid composite was fabricated by employing plasma electrolysis oxidation to in situ grow alumina layers on Al foil, in which an outside layer of nanostructured polycrystalline oxide ceramic was composed of nanosized grains with the size of around 17 nm. Due to shear band formation, nanosized circle bubbles prolonging the crack path, grain rotation, and deformation, the fabricated Al2O3/Al/Al2O3 hybrid composite contains no observable cracks even after being bent on a cylindrical bar with a curvature of 1.5 mm. The composite exhibits alumina stiffness at the elastic stage and aluminum ductility during plastic deformation, which provides high flexibility with the well‐integrated properties of the components. In a synergistic interaction, the alumina on the outside exhibited a strain of 0.33% at room temperature, which was higher than optimum value of 0.25% presented by reported most flexible oxide ceramics. With the unique characteristics and properties, the Al2O3/Al/Al2O3 composite demonstrates a great potential for various engineering applications.
Robust Stability Best Subset Selection for Autocorrelated Data Based on Robust Location and Dispersion Estimator
Authors: Uraibi Hassan S. , Midi Habshah , Rana Sohel
Published: December 2015

Stability selection (multisplit) approach is a variable selection procedure which relies on multisplit data to overcome the shortcomings that may occur to single-split data. Unfortunately, this procedure yields very poor results in the presence of outliers and other contamination in the original data. The problem becomes more complicated when the regression residuals are serially correlated. This paper presents a new robust stability selection procedure to remedy the combined problem of autocorrelation and outliers. We demonstrate the good performance of our proposed robust selection method using real air quality data and simulation study.
On the Velocity of Moving Relativistic Unstable Quantum Systems
Authors: Urbanowski K.
Published: December 2015

We study properties of moving relativistic quantum unstable systems. We show that in contrast to the properties of classical particles and quantum stable objects the velocity of freely moving relativistic quantum unstable systems cannot be constant in time. We show that this new quantum effect results from the fundamental principles of the quantum theory and physics: it is a consequence of the principle of conservation of energy and of the fact that the mass of the quantum unstable system is not defined. This effect can affect the form of the decay law of moving relativistic quantum unstable systems.
Habitats and Foraging Movements of Larvae of Molanna uniophila Vorhies (Trichoptera: Molannidae) in Pratt Lake, Michigan, USA
Authors: Mundahl Neal D. , Mundahl Erik D.
Published: December 2015

Habitats and foraging movements of larvae of Molanna uniophila Vorhies (Trichoptera: Molannidae) were studied during four summers in Pratt Lake, Michigan. Larvae lived and fed in shallow (<10 cm), sand-bottomed lake margins, where macrophyte densities ranged from 86 to 452 stems/m2. Average densities of larvae varied fivefold between years (2.7 versus 13.6 individuals/m2), but larval densities did not vary significantly between habitat patches with low (120 stems/m2) and high (360 stems/m2) macrophyte densities. Larvae and their cases exhibited strong patterns of simple, linear growth. Diets of larvae were dominated by amorphous detritus, plant debris, diatoms, and filamentous algae, but midges, cladocerans, and other microscopic aquatic animals also were consumed. Larvae shifted their bodies and cases forward across the surface sediments up to 4 times/minute while foraging, moving as much as 2.5 m/hour. Movements and distances traveled while feeding increased significantly with increased water temperatures, peaking during midafternoon hours. Distances moved by feeding larvae did not differ between habitats with low versus high macrophyte densities. Larvae foraged most actively during daylight hours and did not selectively utilize macrophyte beds as partial refugia from potential predators while feeding.
Impact of Fibrotic Tissue on Shear Wave Velocity in Thyroid: AnEx VivoStudy with Fresh Thyroid Specimens
Authors: Fukuhara Takahiro , Matsuda Eriko , Endo Yukari , Donishi Ryohei , Izawa Shoichiro , Fujiwara Kazunori , Kitano Hiroya , Takeuchi Hiromi
Published: December 2015

We sought to elucidate the correlation between shear wave velocity (SWV) and fibrosis in thyroid by precisely assessing pathological structures inside 5 × 5 mm2regions of interest (ROIs) of resected specimens, under conditions that excluded physical artifacts. The materials were unselected thyroid and lymph node specimens resected during thyroid surgery. Immediately after surgery, fresh unfixed thyroid and metastatic lymph node specimens were suspended in gel phantoms, and SWV was measured. Upon pathological examination of each specimen, the extent of fibrosis was graded as none, moderate, or severe. A total of 109 specimens were evaluated: 15 normal thyroid, 16 autoimmune thyroiditis, 40 malignant nodules, 19 benign thyroid nodules, and 19 metastatic lymph nodes. When all specimens were classified according to the degree of fibrosis determined by pathological imaging, the mean SWV was1.49±0.39 m/s for no fibrosis,2.13±0.66 m/s for moderate fibrosis, and2.68±0.82 m/s for severe fibrosis. The SWVs of samples with moderate and severe fibrosis were significantly higher than those of samples without fibrosis. The results of this study demonstrate that fibrosis plays an important role in determining stiffness, as measured by SWV in thyroid.
Social Network Analysis of Cattle Movement in Sukhothai Province, Thailand: A Study to Improve Control Measurements
Authors: Noopataya Supot , Thongratsakul Sukanya , Poolkhet Chaithep
Published: December 2015

The aim of this study is to analyse the pattern of cattle movement in Sukhothai province, Thailand. A validated questionnaire was applied to 308 respondents related to cattle farming using one-step snowball sampling. The results showed that most of the nodes are farmers who move their animals in the province. The average normalized degree centrality and normalized closeness centrality were low (<0.01 and 0.04, resp.). We found that traders are the nodes with a high value of centrality. This corresponds with the cutpoint analysis results that traders are outstanding. In conclusion, the relevant authorities should focus on the nodes such as traders for controlling disease. However, a measure to detect disease in the early stages needs to be implemented.
Locomotive Schedule Optimization for Da-qin Heavy Haul Railway
Authors: Su Ruiye , Zhou Leishan , Tang Jinjin
Published: December 2015

The main difference between locomotive schedule of heavy haul railways and that of regular rail transportation is the number of locomotives utilized for one train. One heavy-loaded train usually has more than one locomotive, but a regular train only has one. This paper develops an optimization model for the multilocomotive scheduling problem (MLSP) through analyzing the current locomotive schedule of Da-qin Railway. The objective function of our paper is to minimize the total number of utilized locomotives. The MLSP is nondeterministic polynomial (NP) hard. Therefore, we convert the multilocomotive traction problem into a single-locomotive traction problem. Then, the single-locomotive traction problem (SLTP) can be converted into an assignment problem. The Hungarian algorithm is applied to solve the model and obtain the optimal locomotive schedule. We use the variance of detention time of locomotives at stations to evaluate the stability of locomotive schedule. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed optimization model, case studies for 20 kt and 30 kt heavy-loaded combined trains on Da-qin Railway are both conducted. Compared to the current schedules, the optimal schedules from the proposed models can save 62 and 47 locomotives for 20 kt and 30 kt heavy-loaded combined trains, respectively. Therefore, the effectiveness of the proposed model and its solution algorithm are both valid.
Long-Term Clinical Responses of Neoadjuvant Dendritic Cell Infusions and Radiation in Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Authors: Raj Shailaja , Bui Marilyn M. , Springett Gregory , Conley Anthony , Lavilla-Alonso Sergio , Zhao Xiuhua , Chen Dungsa , Haysek Randy , Gonzalez Ricardo , Letson G. Douglas , Finkelstein Steven Eric , Chiappori Alberto A. , Gabrilovitch Dmitry I. , Antonia Scott J.
Published: December 2015

Purpose. Patients with large >5 cm, high-grade resectable soft tissue sarcomas (STS) have the highest risk of distant metastases. Previously we have shown that dendritic cell (DC) based vaccines show consistent immune responses.Methods. This was a Phase I single institution study of neoadjuvant radiation with DC injections on 18 newly diagnosed high-risk STS patients. Neoadjuvant treatment consisted of 50 Gy of external beam radiation (EBRT), given in 25 fractions delivered five days/week, combined with four intratumoral injections of DCs followed by complete resection. The primary endpoint was to establish the immunological response to neoadjuvant therapy and obtain data on its clinical safety and outcomes.Results. There were no unexpected toxicities or serious adverse events. Twelve out of 18 (67%) patients were alive, of which an encouraging 11/18 (61%) were alive with no systemic recurrence over a period of 2–8 years. Favorable immunological responses correlated with clinical responses in some cases.Conclusions. This study provides clinical support to using dendritic cell injections along with radiation in sarcomas, which when used optimally in combination can help clinical outcomes in soft tissue sarcoma. Study registration number isNCT00365872.
Comparison of Bone Mineral Density in Thalassemia Major Patients with Healthy Controls
Authors: Meena Mahesh Chand , Hemal Alok , Satija Mukul , Arora Shilpa Khanna , Bano Shahina
Published: December 2015

Chronic hemoglobinopathies like thalassemia are associated with many osteopathies like osteoporosis.Methods. This observational study was carried out to compare the bone mineral density (BMD) in transfusion dependent thalassemics with that of healthy controls. Thirty-two thalassemia patients, aged 2–18 years, and 32 age and sex matched controls were studied. The bone mineral concentration (BMC) and BMD were assessed at lumbar spine, distal radius, and neck of femur. Biochemical parameters like serum calcium and vitamin D levels were also assessed.Results. The BMC of neck of femur was significantly low in cases in comparison to controls. We also observed significantly lower BMD at the lumbar spine in cases in comparison to controls. A significantly positive correlation was observed between serum calcium levels and BMD at neck of femur.Conclusion. Hence, low serum calcium may be used as a predictor of low BMD especially in populations where incidence of hypovitaminosis D is very high.
Expression of Factor X in BHK-21 Cells Promotes Low Pathogenic Influenza Viruses Replication
Authors: Shahsavandi Shahla , Ebrahimi Mohammad Majid , Masoudi Shahin , Izadi Hasan
Published: December 2015

A cDNA clone for factor 10 (FX) isolated from chicken embryo inserted into the mammalian cell expression vector pCDNA3.1 was transfected into the baby hamster kidney (BHK-21) cell line. The generated BHK-21 cells with inducible expression of FX were used to investigate the efficacy of the serine transmembrane protease to proteolytic activation of influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) with monobasic cleavage site. Data showed that the BHK-21/FX stably expressed FX after ten serial passages. The cells could proteolytically cleave the HA of low pathogenic avian influenza virus at multiplicity of infection 0.01. Growth kinetics of the virus on BHK-21/FX, BHK-21, and MDCK cells were evaluated by titrations of virus particles in each culture supernatant. Efficient multicycle viral replication was markedly detected in the cell at subsequent passages. Virus titration demonstrated that BHK-21/FX cell supported high-titer growth of the virus in which the viral titer is comparable to the virus grown in BHK-21 or MDCK cells with TPCK-trypsin. The results indicate potential application for the BHK-21/FX in influenza virus replication procedure and related studies.
Intrathoracic Kidney after Blunt Abdominal Trauma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Halis Fikret , Amasyali Akin Soner , Yucak Aysel , Yildiz Turan , Gokce Ahmet
Published: December 2015

Abdominal trauma is responsible for most genitourinary injuries. The incidence of renal artery injury and intrathoracic kidney is quite low in patients who present with blunt trauma experiencing damage. There are four defined etiologies for intrathoracic kidney, which include real intrathoracic ectopic kidney, eventration of the diaphragm, congenital diaphragmatic herniation, and traumatic diaphragmatic rupture. The traumatic intrathoracic kidney is an extremely rare case. We presented intrathoracic kidney case after traumatic posterior diaphragmatic rupture.
Analysis of Selected Properties of Fibreboard Panels Manufactured from Wood and Leather Using the Near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Wagner Kerstin , Schnabel Thomas , Barbu Marius-Catalin , Petutschnigg Alexander
Published: December 2015

This paper deals with the characterization of the properties of wood fibres leather shavings composite board by using the near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and multivariate data analysis. In this study fibreboards were manufactured with different leather amounts by using spruce fibres, as well as vegetable and mineral tanned leather shavings (wet white and wet blue). The NIR spectroscopy was used to analyse the raw materials as well as the wood leather fibreboards. Moreover, the physical and mechanical features of the wood leather composite fibreboards were determined to characterize their properties for the further data analysis. The NIR spectra were analysed by univariate and multivariate methods using the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and the Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR) method. These results demonstrate the potential of FT-NIR spectroscopy to estimate the physical and mechanical properties (e.g., bending strength). This phenomenon provides a possibility for quality assurance systems by using the NIRS.
The Relationship between Self-Efficacy and Psychosocial Care in Adolescents with Epilepsy
Authors: Akbarbegloo Masoomeh , Valizadeh Leila , Zamanzadeh Vahid , Jabarzadeh Faranak
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Studies about epilepsy are more associated with physiological aspects and drug therapy and far too little attention has been paid to psychological and social care, especially in teens. Hence, the present study aimed to assess relationship between self-efficacy and psychosocial care in adolescents with epilepsy. Methods. A cross-sectional association study was conducted on 74 consecutive adolescents aged 10 to 18 years with general attacks of epilepsy referred to Pediatric Neurology Clinics affiliated with the Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in 2013. Data were collected by interview using multisegment tools including demographic characteristics, self-efficacy scaling in children with epilepsy, and reporting tools for children psychosocial care. Results. Our study showed a significant association of self-efficacy with “information received’’ (P<0.02) and also with “need for information or support’’ (P<0.01) as well as “concerns and fears’’ (P<0.01). The comments of doctor or nurse were directly associated with higher self-efficacy and patients’ information needs were inversely associated with higher self-efficacy. Conclusion. For adolescents with epilepsy, providing educational materials such as pamphlets and booklets, designing especial websites, and setting especial meetings with and without parents separately are recommended. Scheduling psychosocial supports and collecting more information about this disorder for adolescents will be helpful.
Investigation on Effect of Material Hardness in High Speed CNC End Milling Process
Authors: Dhandapani N. V. , Thangarasu V. S. , Sureshkannan G.
Published: December 2015

This research paper analyzes the effects of material properties on surface roughness, material removal rate, and tool wear on high speed CNC end milling process with various ferrous and nonferrous materials. The challenge of material specific decision on the process parameters of spindle speed, feed rate, depth of cut, coolant flow rate, cutting tool material, and type of coating for the cutting tool for required quality and quantity of production is addressed. Generally, decision made by the operator on floor is based on suggested values of the tool manufacturer or by trial and error method. This paper describes effect of various parameters on the surface roughness characteristics of the precision machining part. The prediction method suggested is based on various experimental analysis of parameters in different compositions of input conditions which would benefit the industry on standardization of high speed CNC end milling processes. The results show a basis for selection of parameters to get better results of surface roughness values as predicted by the case study results.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Is Associated with the Morphologic and Functional Parameters in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Pudil Radek , Vasatova Martina , Fucikova Alena , Rehulkova Helena , Rehulka Pavel , Palicka Vladimir , Stulik Jiri
Published: December 2015

Background. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is mostly autosomal dominant disease of the myocardium, which is characterized by myocardial hypertrophy. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is involved in myocyte function, growth, and survival. The aim of study was to analyze the clinical significance of VEGF in structural and functional changes in patient with HCM. Methods. In a group of 21 patients with nonobstructive HCM, we assessed serum VEGF and analyzed its association with morphological and functional parameters. Compared to healthy controls, serum VEGF was increased: 199 (IQR: 120.4–260.8) ng/L versus 20 (IQR: 14.8–37.7) ng/L, P<0.001. VEGF levels were associated with left atrium diameter (r=0.51, P=0.01), left ventricle ejection fraction (r=-0.56, P=0.01), fractional shortening (r=-0.54, P=0.02), left ventricular mass (r=0.61, P=0.03), LV mass index (r=0.46, P=0.04), vena cava inferior diameter (r=0.65, P=0.01), and peak gradient of tricuspid regurgitation (r=0.46, P=0.03). Conclusions. Increased VEGF level is associated with structural and functional parameters in patients with HCM and serves as a potential tool for diagnostic process of these patients.
Analgesic Effect of Intra-Articular Injection of Temperature-Responsive Hydrogel Containing Bupivacaine on Osteoarthritic Pain in Rats
Authors: Kim Taemin , Seol Dong Rim , Hahm Suk-Chan , Ko Cheolwoong , Kim Eun-Hye , Chun Keyoungjin , Kim Junesun , Lim Tae-Hong
Published: December 2015

The present study examined the analgesic effects of slow-releasing bupivacaine from hydrogel on chronic arthritic pain in rats. Osteoarthritis (OA) was induced by monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) injection into the right knee joint. Hydrogel (HG: 20, 30, and 50 μL) and temperature-sensitive hydrogel containing bupivacaine (T-gel: 20, 30, and 50 μL) were injected intra-articularly 14 days after MIA injection. Behavioral tests were conducted. The rats showed a significant decrease in weight load and paw withdrawal threshold (PWT). Intra-articular 0.5% bupivacaine (10 and 20 μL) significantly reversed MIA-induced decreased PWT, with no effect on weight load. In normal rats, hydrogel did not produce significant changes in PWT but at 30 and 50 μL slightly decreased weight bearing; T-gel did not cause any changes in both the weight load and PWT. In OA rats, T-gel at 20 μL had a significant analgesic effect for 2 days, even though T-gel at 50 μL further reduced the weight load, demonstrating that intra-articular T-gel (20 μL) has long-lasting analgesic effects in OA rats. Thus, T-gel designed to deliver analgesics into the joint cavity could be an effective therapeutic tool in the clinical setting.
Skin Autofluorescence in Systemic Sclerosis Is Related to the Disease and Vascular Damage: A Cross-Sectional Analytic Study of Comparative Groups
Authors: Dadoniene Jolanta , Cypiene Alma , Ryliskyte Ligita , Rugiene Rita , Ryliškiene Kristina , Laucevičius Aleksandras
Published: December 2015

Skin autofluorescence (AF), a relatively simple and time saving procedure, measures the accumulation of advanced glycation end (AGE) products. The importance in autoimmune rheumatic diseases, particularly, systemic sclerosis (SSc), has not been evaluated yet. The aim of our study was to examine the skin AF in the context of SSc patients and to analyse the relations between skin AF and other surrogate measures of atherosclerosis. Forty-seven patients with SSc and 47 healthy volunteers were included in this study as controls. Patients and controls underwent common carotid artery wall assessment, arterial stiffness and wave reflection measurements, laser Doppler measurements of capillary flow, assessment of endothelial function by brachial ultrasound, peripheral arterial tonometry, and AGE measurement by skin AF. Wall properties of the common carotid arteries and wave reflection measurements were not affected in these study patients compared to controls while measures reflecting small capillary flow were altered. The accumulation of AGE products measured by skin AF was more prominent in SSc patients than in healthy controls. AGE products’ score was significantly associated with carotid radial pulse wave velocity, intima media/carotid artery diameter ratio, capillary flow percentage change during occlusion, and the disease itself in a multivariate linear analysis model.
Unexpected Malignant Diagnosis in Colonic Biopsies: Malignant Transformation of Ovarian Mature Teratomas—Two Case Reports and Review of the Literature
Authors: Rojas Claudia P. , Ganjei-Azar Parvin , Garcia-Buitrago Monica T.
Published: December 2015

Colorectal adenocarcinoma is the second cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The occurrence of squamous cell carcinoma in the colorectum is extremely unusual. Malignant transformation from mature cystic teratoma of the ovary is a rare event. The most common transformation is squamous cell carcinoma, followed by adenocarcinoma. It occurs more often in elderly patients, who usually present with advance disease. We report two unusual cases of postmenopausal women diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma in colon biopsies. After surgical resections, the carcinoma was proven to be the result of malignant transformation of ovarian mature cystic teratomas. Since squamous cell carcinoma of the colorectum is extremely rare, the presence of squamous cell carcinoma in a colonic biopsy in a female patient should alert the clinicians to other possible primary sites, as seen in these cases.
Treatment of Endometriosis with the GnRHa Deslorelin and Add-Back Estradiol and Supplementary Testosterone
Authors: Agarwal Sanjay K. , Daniels AnnaMarie , Drosman Steven R. , Udoff Laurence , Foster Warren G. , Pike Malcolm C. , Spicer Darcy V. , Daniels John R.
Published: December 2015

Background. This randomized, multicenter, open-label clinical trial was intended to generate pilot data on the efficacy and safety of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) deslorelin (D) with low-dose estradiol ± testosterone (E2  ± T) add-back for endometriosis-related pelvic pain.Methods. Women with pelvic pain and laparoscopically confirmed endometriosis were treated with a six-month course of daily intranasal D with concurrent administration of either transdermal E2, intranasal E2, or intranasal E2  + T. Efficacy data included evaluation of dyspareunia, dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, tenderness, and induration. Cognition and quality of life were also assessed. Safety parameters included assessment of endometrial hyperplasia, bone mineral density (BMD), and hot flashes.Results. Endometriosis symptoms and signs scores decreased in all treatment arms from a baseline average of 7.4 to 2.5 after 3 months of treatment and 3.4 after 6 months. BMD changes and incidence of hot flashes were minimal, and no endometrial hyperplasia was observed. Patient-reported outcomes showed significant improvement across multiple domains.Conclusions. Daily intranasal D with low dose E2  ± T add-back resulted in significant reduction in severity of endometriosis symptoms and signs with few safety signals and minimal hypoestrogenic symptoms that would be expected with the use of a GnRHa alone.
A Computational Model for Real-Time Calculation of Electric Field due to Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Clinics
Authors: Paffi Alessandra , Camera Francesca , Carducci Filippo , Rubino Gianluigi , Tampieri Paolo , Liberti Micaela , Apollonio Francesca
Published: December 2015

The aim of this paper is to propose an approach for an accurate and fast (real-time) computation of the electric field induced inside the whole brain volume during a transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) procedure. The numerical solution implements the admittance method for a discretized realistic brain model derived from Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Results are in a good agreement with those obtained using commercial codes and require much less computational time. An integration of the developed code with neuronavigation tools will permit real-time evaluation of the stimulated brain regions during the TMS delivery, thus improving the efficacy of clinical applications.
Variability of Hydrological Parameters and Water Balance Components in Small Catchment in Croatia
Authors: Tadić Lidija , Dadić Tamara , Leko-Kos Marija
Published: December 2015

Analysis of small catchment area in Croatian lowland with its hydrological characteristics in the period between 1981 and 2014 was carried out in order to define significance of change in hydrological and meteorological parameters (precipitation, air temperatures, and discharges) and water balance components (deep percolation and potential evapotranspiration). There was no significant land use change in the observed period, so all changes in hydrological processes can be considered to be without human impact in the last 35 years. Application of RAPS (Rescaled Adjusted Partial Sums) on all data series distinguished two subperiods with different length but the same behaviour. The first subperiod was a period characterised by the decrease, starting in 1980 and finishing between 1991 and 1995, while the second one was a period characterised by the increase of parameters in all analyses, starting between 1991 and 1995 and finishing in 2001. In comparison to the analysis of climate change impacts per decade, this approach is much more appropriate and gives insight into variations throughout the entire observed period. The most variable but not significant parameters are precipitation and discharges, especially in the second subperiod which has a major impact on occurrence of hydrological hazards such as droughts and floods and makes great pressure and responsibility on water management system.
Free Fatty Acids Activate Renin-Angiotensin System in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes through Nuclear Factor-kappa B Pathway
Authors: Sun Jia , Luo Jinhua , Ruan Yuting , Xiu Liangchang , Fang Bimei , Zhang Hua , Wang Ming , Chen Hong
Published: December 2015

The activity of a local renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the adipose tissue is closely associated with obesity-related diseases. However, the mechanism of RAS activation in adipose tissue is still unknown. In the current study, we found that palmitic acid (PA), one kind of free fatty acid, induced the activity of RAS in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. In the presence of fetuin A (Fet A), PA upregulated the expression of angiotensinogen (AGT) and angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R) and stimulated the secretion of angiotensin II (ANG II) in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Moreover, the activation of RAS in 3T3-L1 adipocytes was blocked when we blocked Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway using TAK242 or NF-κB signaling pathway using BAY117082. Together, our results have identified critical molecular mechanisms linking PA/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway to the activity of the local renin-angiotensin system in adipose tissue.
Vitamin B6 Prevents Endothelial Dysfunction, Insulin Resistance, and Hepatic Lipid Accumulation inApoe−/−Mice Fed with High-Fat Diet
Authors: Liu Zhan , Li Peng , Zhao Zhi-Hong , Zhang Yu , Ma Zhi-Min , Wang Shuang-Xi
Published: December 2015

Backgrounds.VitB6 deficiency has been associated with a number of adverse health effects. However, the effects of VitB6 in metabolic syndrome are poorly understood.Methods.VitB6 (50 mg/kg/day) was given toApoe-/-mice with hkdigh-fat diet (HFD) for 8 weeks. Endothelial dysfunction, insulin resistance, and hepatic lipid contents were determined.Results.VitB6 administration remarkably increased acetylcholine-induced endothelium-dependent relaxation and decreased random blood glucose level inApoe-/-mice fed with HFD. In addition, VitB6 improved the tolerance of glucose and insulin, normalized the histopathology of liver, and reduced hepatic lipid accumulation but did not affect the liver functions. Clinical and biochemical analysis indicated that the levels of VitB6 were decreased in patients with fatty liver.Conclusions.Vitamin B6 prevents endothelial dysfunction, insulin resistance, and hepatic lipid accumulation inApoe-/-mice fed with HFD. Supplementation of VitB6 should be considered to prevent metabolic syndrome.
New Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches for Preventing the Progression of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Park Young Gun , Roh Young-Jung
Published: December 2015

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a severe sight-threatening complication of diabetes mellitus. Retinal laser photocoagulation, antivascular endothelial growth factors, steroid therapy, and pars plana vitrectomy are now used extensively to treat advanced stages of diabetic retinopathy. Currently, diagnostic devices like ultrawide field fundus fluorescein angiography and the improvement of optical coherence tomography have provided quicker and more precise diagnosis of early diabetic retinopathy. Thus, treatment protocols have been modified accordingly. Various types of lasers, including the subthreshold micropulse laser and RPE-targeting laser, and selective targeted photocoagulation may be future alternatives to conventional retinal photocoagulation, with fewer complications. The new developed intravitreal medications and implants have provided more therapeutic options, with promising results.
Modeling and Simulation of the Vibration Characteristics of the In-Wheel Motor Driving Vehicle Based on Bond Graph
Authors: Tan Di , Wang Qiang
Published: December 2015

Bond graph theory is applied to the modeling and analysis of the vibration characteristics of the in-wheel motor driving vehicle. First, an 11-degree-of-freedom vibration model of the in-wheel motor driving vehicle is established based on bond graph, and then the correctness of the model is verified. Second, under the driving condition of class B road excitations and a speed of 50 Km/h, the vibration characteristics of the in-wheel motor driving vehicle are simulated and analyzed, and the activity of each part in the system is then calculated. Third, these parts that have less of an effect on the vibration characteristics of an in-wheel motor driving vehicle are identified according to the magnitude of the activity, and then the model is simplified by removing these parts. Finally, the reliability of the simplified model is verified by comparing the vibration characteristics of the model before and after simplification. This study can provide a method for the modeling and simulation of the vibration characteristics of the in-wheel motor driving vehicle.
The Role of Perspective in Mental Time Travel
Authors: Ansuini Caterina , Cavallo Andrea , Pia Lorenzo , Becchio Cristina
Published: December 2015

Recent years have seen accumulating evidence for the proposition that people process time by mapping it onto a linear spatial representation and automatically “project” themselves on an imaginedmental time line. Here, we ask whether people can adopt the temporal perspective of another person when travelling through time. To elucidate similarities and differences between time travelling from one’s own perspective or from the perspective of another person, we asked participants to mentally project themselves or someone else (i.e., a coexperimenter) to different time points. Three basic properties of mental time travel were manipulated: temporal location (i.e., where in time the travel originates: past, present, and future), motion direction (either backwards or forwards), and temporal duration (i.e., the distance to travel: one, three, or five years). We found that time travels originating in the present lasted longer in the self- than in the other-perspective. Moreover, for self-perspective, but not for other-perspective, time was differently scaled depending on where in time the travel originated. In contrast, when considering the direction and the duration of time travelling, no dissimilarities between the self- and the other-perspective emerged. These results suggest that self- and other-projection, despite some differences, share important similarities in structure.
Functional Constipation and Constipation-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome in the General Population: Data from the GECCO Study
Authors: Enck Paul , Leinert Johannes , Smid Menno , Köhler Thorsten , Schwille-Kiuntke Juliane
Published: December 2015

Background. The prevalence of constipation in the (German) population has been shown to be 14.9% in a telephone survey, but more detailed data are required to characterize the sociographics and clinical characteristics of persons with different types of functional constipation, either constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C) or functional constipation with or without meeting Rome criteria.Methods. Of 2239 constipated individuals identified during the telephone interview, 1037 (46.3%) were willing to provide a postal address for a questionnaire, of which 589 (56.8%) returned the questionnaire, inquiring about sociographic data, clinical symptoms, and health care behavior related to constipation, as well as health-related quality-of-life (SF12). Subgroups of functionally constipated individuals were compared.Results. More than 50% of the respondents reported a somatic comorbid condition and/or regular medication intake that may contribute to constipation. We split the remaining individuals (N=214) into three groups, matching Rome-criteria for IBS (IBS-C,n=64) and for functional constipation (FC-R,n=36) and FC not matching Rome criteria (n=114). Nearly all sociographic and clinical characteristics were equal among them, and all individuals with constipation had similar and lowered QOL on the SF-12 physical health domain, but in IBS-C the scores were also significantly lower in comparison to FC-R and FC, in both the physical health and the mental health domain.Conclusion. Only a fraction of individuals with chronic constipation match Rome criteria for IBS-C or FC, but subgroups do not differ with respect to most other measures except quality-of-life profiles.
TheGαoActivator Mastoparan-7 Promotes Dendritic Spine Formation in Hippocampal Neurons
Authors: Ramírez Valerie T. , Ramos-Fernández Eva , Inestrosa Nibaldo C.
Published: December 2015

Mastoparan-7 (Mas-7), an analogue of the peptide mastoparan, which is derived from wasp venom, is a direct activator ofPertussis toxin-(PTX-) sensitive G proteins. Mas-7 produces several biological effects in different cell types; however, little is known about how Mas-7 influences mature hippocampal neurons. We examined the specific role of Mas-7 in the development of dendritic spines, the sites of excitatory synaptic contact that are crucial for synaptic plasticity. We report here that exposure of hippocampal neurons to a low dose of Mas-7 increases dendritic spine density and spine head width in a time-dependent manner. Additionally, Mas-7 enhances postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95) clustering in neurites and activatesGαosignaling, increasing the intracellular Ca2+concentration. To define the role of signaling intermediates, we measured the levels of phosphorylated protein kinase C (PKC), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and calcium-calmodulin dependent protein kinase IIα(CaMKIIα) after Mas-7 treatment and determined that CaMKII activation is necessary for the Mas-7-dependent increase in dendritic spine density. Our results demonstrate a critical role forGαosubunit signaling in the regulation of synapse formation.
The C825T Polymorphism of the G-Proteinβ3 Gene as a Risk Factor for Functional Dyspepsia: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Song Yi-Zuo , You He-Yi , Zhu Zhe-Hui , Wen Zheng-De , Xu Hui-Ying , Chen Bi-Cheng , Chen Zong-Jing , Huang Qing-Ke
Published: December 2015

Background. Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a functional upper gastrointestinal disorder with significant morbidity and medical costs. Previous studies investigated the association of G-proteinβ3 (GNB3) genetic polymorphisms with FD but with inconsistent results. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to derive a precise estimation of the relationship between GNB3 polymorphisms and FD.Methods. We searched different databases including PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI, and the Ovid Library to gather eligible studies on GNB3 polymorphisms and FD. The association was assessed by the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).Results. We identified 12 studies with 1109 cases and 2853 controls for the analysis. We found no associations of GNB3 C825T polymorphism with FD in the overall population (T versus C, OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 0.96–1.18,P=0.26; TT versus CC + CT, OR = 1.16, 95% CI: 0.97–1.39,P=0.11; TT + CT versus CC, OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.77–1.31,P=0.96; TT versus CC, OR = 1.15, 95% CI: 0.93–1.44,P=0.20). Subgroup analyses by genotyping method indicated that the magnitude of association was strengthened for additive model (OR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.07–2.24,P=0.02). Sensitivity analysis did not reveal significant associations under all models.Conclusions. This meta-analysis demonstrates that GNB3 C825T polymorphism may not be a risk factor for FD.
Neuroprotective Transcription Factors in Animal Models of Parkinson Disease
Authors: Blaudin de Thé François-Xavier , Rekaik Hocine , Prochiantz Alain , Fuchs Julia , Joshi Rajiv L.
Published: December 2015

A number of transcription factors, including En1/2, Foxa1/2, Lmx1a/b, Nurr1, Otx2, and Pitx3, with key roles in midbrain dopaminergic (mDA) neuron development, also regulate adult mDA neuron survival and physiology. Mouse models with targeted disruption of some of these genes display several features reminiscent of Parkinson disease (PD), in particular the selective and progressive loss of mDA neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). The characterization of these animal models has provided valuable insights into various mechanisms of PD pathogenesis. Therefore, the dissection of the mechanisms and survival signalling pathways engaged by these transcription factors to protect mDA neuron from degeneration can suggest novel therapeutic strategies. The work on En1/2-mediated neuroprotection also highlights the potential of protein transduction technology for neuroprotective approaches in PD.