bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Appliances considered demand response optimisation for smart grid
Authors: Wang Yipeng , Yang Wei , Liu Tie
Published: October 2016

Demand side management can bring a lot of benefits to smart grid, including reducing peak load demand, reshaping demand file and increasing grid sustainability. To obtain a more practical and rational demand side response optimisation, the authors first build a power network model with suppliers, utility companies, consumers with appliances and energy storage systems. Unlike other power network models previously proposed, power consumptions and work patterns of appliances have been considered in the authors’ work. They classify appliances into elastic and inelastic ones according to their distinct constraints on power consumptions, while all appliances’ work patterns are modelled based on their functions and common users’ habits in reality. With the help of convex optimisation, a distributed load scheduling algorithm is proposed subject to social welfare maximisation. Simulation results confirm that the proposed load scheduling algorithm can lead to a suitable power consumption schedule to improve the social welfare than other load scheduling algorithm does. The effect of energy storage system on reducing the fluctuation of power network is also tested and proved to be effective. At last, a strategy of charge rate is also given to satisfy power consumption and avoid energy waste, which is further verified to be competent.
Robust coordination of directional overcurrent relays using a matheuristic algorithm
Authors: Costa Mateus H. , Saldanha Rodney R. , Ravetti Martin G. , Carrano Eduardo G.
Published: October 2016

Directional overcurrent relays are often used in the protection of electrical power transmission and distribution systems. These devices are installed along the network, and they must be coordinated to operate as fast as possible and in the adequate sequence. However, the coordination of relays is a complex problem, due to its discrete non‐linear nature and its hard constraint structure. A matheuristic algorithm to provide coordination of directional overcurrent is proposed in this work. The algorithm combines a differential evolution strategy and linear programming formulations. In addition, two local search procedures are proposed to improve convergence and to handle continuous and discrete relay setups. Results for five instances show that the proposed method is able to obtain identical or better solutions than those already reported in the literature with considerably lower computational cost. Furthermore, the algorithm can directly handle robust coordination by considering possible changes in the systems conditions.
Klinikmanager auf der Medica: „Solche Messen sind wandelnde Jobbörsen“
Authors: Lippmann Thomas
Published: October 2016

Klinikmanager sind auf der Medica gern gesehen – doch nicht jeder nimmt sich die Zeit für eine Reise nach Düsseldorf. kma sprach mit Thomas Lippmann über seine Gründe, zwei Tage auf der Medica zu verbringen.
Infrastruktur: Telematikausbau stockt
Authors: Mewis Dirk
Published: October 2016

E-Health boomt. Die Nachfrage nach telemedizinischen Diensten und mobilen Anwendungen steigt kontinuierlich. Parallel dazu stockt allerdings die elektronische Vernetzung.
Two-dimensional modeling and analysis of a nanometer transistor as a THz emitter
Authors: Rahmatallahpur Sh. , Rostami Ali
Published: October 2016

In this paper, we report on the influences of quantum effects, electron exchange-correlation, Fermi velocity, gate to channel distance and viscosity on the plasma frequency and instability of the plasma waves in a nanometer transistor. By extending the analysis to two-dimensional case, allowing oblique wave propagation, including viscosity and departing from gradual channel approximation, we obtain a general analytical expression for dispersion relation, plasma frequency, and “increment.” We found that, while the plasma frequency decreases with the electron exchange-correlation effect, it increases with quantum effects and Fermi velocity. It is shown that the spectrums of plasma waves are discrete both in longitudinal and lateral (transverse) direction. We also express the total radiated power in terms of transistor parameters especially the lateral dimension. Viscosity which is inherently presented in the structure and cannot be neglected, dramatically decrease the emitted power and set a lower limit on the length of transistor. We show that a nanometer transistor with a long width (a long lateral dimension) has advantages for the realization of practical terahertz emitters.
High-frequency heterodyne lock-in thermography (HeLIT): A highly sensitive method to detect early caries
Authors: Wang Fei , Liu Jun-yan , Yang Jun-han , Oliullah Md. , Wang Xiao-chun , Wang Yang
Published: October 2016

In this letter, a nonlinear photothermal characteristic of dental tissues has been verified by photothermal radiometry at a given frequency with changing of the laser intensity. Subsequently, the high-frequency heterodyne lock-in thermography (HeLIT) scheme has been introduced to overcome shortages of the low infrared camera frame rate and the poor signal-noise ratio. The smooth surface tooth was artificially demineralized at a different time, and then it was detected by HeLIT, Results illustrated that the phase delay increases with the extension of the demineralized treatment time. The comparison experiments between HeLIT and the homodyne lock-in thermography for detecting artificial caries were carried out. Experimental results illustrated that the HeLIT has the merits of high sensitivity and specificity in detecting early caries.
Thermal insulator transition induced by interface scattering
Authors: Slovick Brian A. , Krishnamurthy Srini
Published: October 2016

We develop an effective medium model of thermal conductivity that accounts for both percolation and interface scattering. This model accurately explains the measured increase and decrease of thermal conductivity with loading in composites dominated by percolation and interface scattering, respectively. Our model further predicts that strong interface scattering leads to a sharp decrease in thermal conductivity, or an insulator transition, at high loadings when conduction through the matrix is restricted and heat is forced to diffuse through particles with large interface resistance. The accuracy of our model and its ability to predict transitions between insulating and conducting states suggest it can be a useful tool for designing materials with low or high thermal conductivity for a variety of applications.
Effects of coating molecules on the magnetic heating properties of Au-Fe3O4 heterodimer nanoparticles
Authors: Yamamoto Y. , Ogasawara J. , Himukai H. , Itoh T.
Published: October 2016

In this paper, we report the heating properties of gold-magnetite (Au-Fe3O4) heterodimer nanoparticles (NPs) subjected to an alternating magnetic field. The Au-Fe3O4 NPs coated with oleic acid and oleylamine (OA) were synthesized through a method that combines seed mediation and high-temperature decomposition. The coating was replaced with dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) by the ligand-exchange method. The specific absorption rates (SARs) for the OA- and DMSA-coated Au-Fe3O4 NPs coated with OA and DMSA at room temperature were determined through the calorimetric and magnetometric methods. SAR depended on the square of the magnetic field H up to an H value of 4 kA/m. The absolute value of the SAR for DMSA-coated NPs is about fivefold higher than that of the OA-coated NPs. The AC magnetic hysteresis measurements showed the recovery of the magnetic volume and the decrease in the magnetic anisotropy of the DMSA-coated NPs relative to those of the OA-coated NPs. These results suggest that the protective agent influences the magnetic properties of magnetite NPs via gold NPs.
Characterizing Failure to Establish Hepatitis C Care of Baby Boomers Diagnosed in the Emergency Department
Authors: Franco Ricardo A. , Overton E. Turner , Tamhane Ashutosh R. , Forsythe Jordan M. , Rodgers Joel B. , Schexnayder Julie K. , Guthrie Deanne , Thogaripally Suneetha , Zinski Anne , Saag Michael S. , Mugavero Michael J. , Wang Henry E. , Galbraith James W.
Published: October 2016

Background

Emergency departments (EDs) are high-yield sites for hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening, but data regarding linkage to care (LTC) determinants are limited.

Methods

Between September 2013 and June 2014, 4371 baby boomers unaware of their HCV status presented to the University of Alabama at Birmingham ED and underwent opt-out screening. A linkage coordinator facilitated referrals for positive cases. Demographic data, International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes, and clinic visits were collected, and patients were (retrospectively) followed up until February 2015. Linkage to care was defined as an HCV clinic visit within the hospital system.

Results

Overall, 332 baby boomers had reactive HCV antibody and detectable plasma ribonucleic acid. The mean age was 57.3 years (standard deviation = 4.8); 70% were male and 61% were African Americans. Substance abuse (37%) and psychiatric diagnoses (30%) were prevalent; 9% were identified with cirrhosis. During a median follow-up of 433 days (interquartile range, 354–500), 117 (35%) linked to care and 48% needed inpatient care. In multivariable analysis, the odds of LTC failure were significantly higher for white males (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03–6.38) and uninsured individuals (aOR, 5.16; 95% CI, 1.43–18.63) and lower for patients with cirrhosis (aOR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.14–0.92) and access to primary care (aOR, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.10–0.41).

Conclusions

In this cohort of baby boomers with newly diagnosed HCV in the ED, only 1 in 3 were linked to HCV care. Although awareness of HCV diagnosis remains important, intensive strategies to improve LTC and access to curative therapy for diagnosed individuals are needed.
Evaluation of Ralstonia solanacearum Infection Dynamics in Resistant and Susceptible Pepper Lines Using Bioluminescence Imaging
Authors: Du Heshan , Chen Bin , Zhang Xiaofen , Zhang Fenglan , Miller Sally A. , Rajashekara Gireesh , Xu Xiulan , Geng Sansheng
Published: October 2016

Bacterial wilt, incited by Ralstonia solanacearum, is a major disease affecting pepper (Capsicum annuum) production worldwide. The most effective management tactic is the deployment of wilt-resistant varieties. However, the lack of a nondestructive method to measure invasiveness and spatio-temporal distribution of R. solanacearum, a vascular pathogen, in planta limits better understanding of pepper resistance and plant-pathogen interactions. We evaluated the resistance of 100 pepper lines using R. solanacearum strain Rs-SY1 (phylotype I, isolated from a sweet pepper in South China). Based on the disease severity index (DSI) values, the elite inbred line BVRC 1 and the small-fruited accessions PI 640435 and PI 640444 were identified as resistant (DSI: 1.2, 1.8, and 1.9 out of 4.0, respectively). In order to evaluate bacterial infection dynamics in planta in real time, we generated seven bioluminescent R. solanacearum strains (BL-Rs1 to BL-Rs7) using vector pXX3 carrying luxCDABE genes, and selected BL-Rs7 for inoculation due to its similarity with parent strain Rs-SY1 in morphology, pathogenicity, and highest light emission in vitro. Luminescence intensity was strongly correlated to bacterial population in planta (R2 = 0.88). The utility of the bioluminescence assay was validated by comparing R. solanacearum infection dynamics in real-time in vivo between resistant line BVRC 1 and susceptible line BVRC 25. The distribution and multiplication of BL-Rs7 strain in resistant line BVRC 1 was conspicuously limited in plants inoculated in either roots or stem compared with susceptible line BVRC 25. These results suggest that pepper line BVRC 1 may resist colonization by interfering with R. solanacearum multiplication in the roots and stem.
Methodological and Reporting Quality of Comparative Studies Evaluating Health-Related Quality of Life of Colorectal Cancer Patients and Controls: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wong Carlos K. H. , Guo Vivian Y. W. , Chen Jing , Lam Cindy L. K.
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND:

Health-related quality of life is an important outcome measure in patients with colorectal cancer. Comparison with normative data has been increasingly undertaken to assess the additional impact of colorectal cancer on health-related quality of life.

OBJECTIVE:

This review aimed to critically appraise the methodological details and reporting characteristics of comparative studies evaluating differences in health-related quality of life between patients and controls.

DATA SOURCES:

A systematic search of English-language literature published between January 1985 and May 2014 was conducted through a database search of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Medline.

STUDY SELECTION:

Comparative studies reporting health-related quality-of-life outcomes among patients who have colorectal cancer and controls were selected.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Methodological and reporting quality per comparison study was evaluated based on a 11-item methodological checklist proposed by Efficace in 2003 and a set of criteria predetermined by reviewers.

RESULTS:

Thirty-one comparative studies involving >10,000 patients and >10,000 controls were included. Twenty-three studies (74.2%) originated from European countries, with the largest number from the Netherlands (n = 6). Twenty-eight studies (90.3%) compared the health-related quality of life of patients with normative data published elsewhere, whereas the remaining studies recruited a group of patients who had colorectal cancer and a group of control patients within the same studies. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life Questionnaire Core 30 was the most extensively used instrument (n = 16; 51.6%). Eight studies (25.8%) were classified as “probably robust” for clinical decision making according to the Efficace standard methodological checklist. Our further quality assessment revealed the lack of score differences reported (61.3%), contemporary comparisons (36.7%), statistical significance tested (38.7%), and matching of control group (58.1%), possibly leading to inappropriate control groups for fair comparisons.

LIMITATIONS:

Meta-analysis of differences between the 2 groups was not available.

CONCLUSIONS:

In general, one-fourth of comparative studies that evaluated health-related quality of life of patients who had colorectal cancer achieved high quality in reporting characteristics and methodological details. Future studies are encouraged to undertake health-related quality-of-life measurement and adhere to a methodological checklist in comparison with controls.
Single-Incision Laparoscopic Anterior Resection Using a Curved Stapler
Authors: Watanabe Jun , Ota Mitsuyoshi , Suwa Yusuke , Ishibe Atsushi , Masui Hidenobu , Nagahori Kaoru
Published: October 2016

INTRODUCTION:

Single-incision laparoscopic colectomy is technically limited because of such factors as instrument crowding, in-line viewing, and insufficient countertraction. In particular, it is technically difficult to cut the distal rectum from the umbilicus using an articulating linear stapler in single-incision laparoscopic anterior resection.

TECHNIQUE:

After treating the mesorectum, the 5-mm trocar is replaced with a 12-mm trocar. The cartridge of the curved stapler is mounted while the shaft of the stapler is inserted into the 12-mm port extracorporeally. The curved stapler is inserted through the umbilical incision with the cartridge. A multichannel port is then mounted, and the abdominal cavity is reinsufflated. The curved stapler can then be operated intracorporeally. This procedure facilitates the vertical dissection of the rectum from the umbilicus.

RESULTS:

A total of 27 consecutive patients were analyzed in this study. All the procedures were safely performed without any complications. The median distance from the peritoneal reflection to the transection point of the distal bowel in single-incision laparoscopic anterior resection was 5.0 cm (range, –2.0 to 15.0). One stapler firing was required to achieve distal bowel division in 26 patients (96.3 %), whereas 2 firings were required in 1 patient (3.7 %). The median distal margin was 7.0 cm (range, 3.0–13.0). The time from the insertion of the stapler to transection was 180 seconds (range, 100–420). There were no cases of anastomotic leakage.

CONCLUSIONS:

In single-incision laparoscopic anterior resection, it is feasible to perform rectal transection from the umbilicus by using a curved stapler. This technique may allow for the omission of 1 trocar from the operation.
The First Reported Case of Recurrent Carcinoid Tumor in the External Auditory Canal
Authors: McCrary Hilary C. , Faucett Erynne A. , Reghunathan Saranya , Aly F. Zahra , Khan Rihan , Carmody Raymond F. , Jacob Abraham
Published: October 2016

Objective:

Cutaneous neuroendocrine lesions of the external auditory canal (EAC) are exceptionally rare, with only five cases reported in the literature. In this case report, we present a patient with a recurrent carcinoid tumor in the EAC, which has yet to be described.

Patients:

A 38-year-old woman presenting with otalgia, aural fullness, and decreased hearing was found to have a recurrent EAC carcinoid tumor, 8-years after initial resection at an outside facility.

Interventions:

The recurrent tumor involved much of the proximal, anterior bony ear canal and was trans-tympanic, extending to the middle ear and epitympanum; therefore, a lateral temporal bone resection was performed to ensure complete resection.

Main Outcome Measures:

Surgical pathology confirmed the presence a recurrent carcinoid tumor in the EAC, with immunohistochemistry positive for pancytokeratin (MAK6), CD56, and synaptophysin, with chromogranin showing rare cells positive for cytoplasmic granules. There was no evidence of metastasis.

Results:

Lateral temporal bone resection was successful and the patient is being followed with annual imaging. The patient is considering future hearing rehabilitation with a bone anchored hearing device.

Conclusion:

This case report highlights the first known case of recurrent carcinoid tumor in the EAC, treated with lateral temporal bone resection. Clinical presentation, imaging, treatment, and pathology are reviewed along with a review of the literature.
Association Between Low Relative Muscle Mass and the Risk of Colorectal Neoplasms
Authors: Jung Yoon Suk , Kim Nam Hee , Ryu Seungho , Park Jung Ho , Park Dong Il , Sohn Chong Il
Published: October 2016

Goals:

We aimed to ascertain whether low relative muscle mass is associated with colorectal neoplasm (CRN) risk.

Background:

CRN and sarcopenia have common pathophysiological mechanisms such as insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and physical inactivity. However, the direct relationship between the 2 diseases has not been investigated.

Study:

A cross-sectional study was performed on 81,885 examinees who underwent colonoscopy as part of a health check-up. The skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) [SMI (%)=total skeletal muscle mass (kg)/body weight (kg)×100] was estimated using a bioelectrical impedance analyzer.

Results:

Of 81,885 participants, 52,272 were men and 29,613 were women. The prevalence rate of CRN in subjects in quartiles 1, 2, 3, and 4 of SMI was 22.8%, 20.5%, 18.2%, and 14.9% among men, and 14.8%, 11.8%, 9.7%, and 8.2% among women, respectively (P
trend<0.001). In a multivariable-adjusted model, the inverse associations between SMI and prevalence of CRN remained significant. In men, the adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for overall CRN comparing each of the quartiles 1, 2, and 3 of SMI with the quartile 4 were 1.41 (1.32 to 1.52), 1.24 (1.16 to 1.33), and 1.12 (1.04 to 1.20), and those for advanced CRN were 1.64 (1.34 to 2.01), 1.38 (1.12 to 1.70), and 1.12 (0.90 to 1.40), respectively (all P
trend<0.001). In women, those for overall CRN were 1.18 (1.04 to 1.33), 1.15 (1.01 to 1.30), and 1.05 (0.93 to 1.20), respectively (P
trend=0.006).

Conclusions:

Relative muscle mass was negatively associated with CRN prevalence, supporting low muscle mass as an independent risk factor for CRN. Our results may provide a novel insight into the mechanisms linking low muscle mass and CRN.
Lamivudine improves short-term outcome in hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure patients with a high model for end-stage liver disease score
Authors: Li Xiaoshu , Gao Fangyuan , Liu Huimin , Zhang Henghui , Liu Yao , Ye Xieqiong , Geng Mingfan , Sun Le , Wang Rui , Li Yuxin , Jiang Yuyong , Wang Xiaojing , Zhou Guiqin , Yang Zhiyun , Li Ang , Zeng Hui , Wang Xianbo
Published: October 2016

Aim

Hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) has significant morbidity and mortality. There is no standard approach for the management of HBV-related ACLF with nucleos(t)ide analogs. Our objective was to compare the short-term mortality between entecavir (ETV) and lamivudine (LAM) in patients with HBV-related ACLF.

Methods

We recruited 311 inpatients with HBV-related ACLF from December 2002 to January 2015. The patients were treated with ETV (n=143) or LAM (n=168). The primary endpoint was mortality rate at week 8. Virological and biochemical responses were also studied.

Results

By week 8, 53 (37.06%) patients in the ETV group and 57 (33.93%) patients in the LAM group died, and the two groups had similar mortality (P=0.414). Multivariate analysis showed that age, total bilirubin, international normalized ratio, and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score were independent factors for mortality at week 8. The best cut-off value of the MELD score was 24.5 for 8-week mortality. Twenty-nine of the 170 (17.06%) patients with MELD score less than 24.5 died at week 8, and the ETV and LAM groups had similar mortality (P=0.743). Eighty-one of the 141 (57.45%) patients with MELD score of at least 24.5 died at week 8 and the LAM group had lower mortality than the ETV group (P=0.018 at week 4; P=0.039 at week 8). Both groups showed similar virological and biochemical responses at 4 weeks.

Conclusion

LAM reduces the 8-week mortality rate significantly in patients with HBV-related ACLF who had MELD score of at least 24.5.
Short article: The effect of implementation of a treatment algorithm for infliximab on remission rates and drug costs in inflammatory bowel disease patients
Authors: Taks Margot , Pijls Phillipe A.R.R. , Derijks Luc J.J. , ten Broeke Robert , Grouls Rene J. , Curvers Joyce , Gilissen Lennard P.L.
Published: October 2016

Introduction

The effective, but expensive, drug infliximab is used in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Monitoring infliximab trough levels and anti-infliximab antibody (ATI) formation can lead to a more cost-effective use of infliximab therapy. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of implementation of a treatment algorithm for infliximab in a single-centre IBD cohort, focussing on remission rates and drug costs.

Methods

IBD patients aged 18 years or older treated with infliximab were asked to participate in this study. Remission rates were assessed using faecal calprotectin levels and a validated questionnaire. Infliximab trough levels and ATIs were determined at baseline and at the third infliximab infusion. According to the advice given by the treatment algorithm, infliximab dosage adjustments were performed at the second infliximab infusion.

Results

Between January and December 2015 a total of 62 IBD patients in our centre were treated with infliximab, of whom 33 (53%) patients agreed to participate in this study. The number of patients in remission was 28 (85%) at baseline and there were 13 dose adaptations suggested by the treatment algorithm for the successive second infusion. Four patients possessed undetectable infliximab levels and positive ATI status at baseline. After the second infusion, there were 29 (88%) patients in remission at the third infusion. All of this resulted in an annual drug cost reduction of €47 026 (7.4%).

Conclusion

Our developed treatment algorithm of infliximab led to optimization of infliximab therapy in IBD patients by increasing remission rates and reducing drug costs.
First report of hidradenitis suppurativa and chronic gastritis caused by antibiotic resistant Salmonella enterica Serovar Brandenburg
Authors: Szili Karoly , Vanya Melinda , Balogh Emese P. , Dezsi Csilla , Lajos Gyorgy
Published: October 2016

Introduction:

Salmonella infections are one of the most common agents of food-borne diseases. Brandenburg serovar is more common in animals than in humans, and previous reports has been published on suppurative thyroiditis, peritonitis, abscess of the thigh, abscess of the endometriosic ovarian-cyst and haemorrhagic urethritis caused by Salmonella Brandenburg infection.

Objective:

Our aim was to demonstrate a separate case of Salmonella Enterica subsp. enterica serovar Brandenburg infection in a male presenting with symptoms of gastroenteritis with hidradentis suppurativa in a 6-month period in 2014.

Case report:

This article reports an unusual case of a male prison guard with good physical and psychosocial condition aged (38), who developed gastroenteritis, displaying vomitus and progressive diarrhoea of 5-day duration in June 2014, but after the antibiotic therapy, his symptoms had not ended. The local family doctor had not taken stool samples. Four months later, hidradenitis suppurativa and rosacea was detected by the prison doctor. The first examination of the stool culture and smear was positive for S. Enterica subsp. enterica serovar Brandenburg in December 2014. After several and different therapies (including dermatologists) with antibiotics, proton-pump inhibition and other agents, a final diagnosis has been revealed as the Salmonella infection. Following an oral 14-day course of ciprofloxacin treatment and B6 vitamin supplementation, the patient displayed a significant clinical improvement.

Conclusion:

According to our best knowledge, this is the first article to report the case of Salmonella Brandenburg-associated chronic gastroenteritis, rosacea and axillar hidradenitis suppurativa.
Implementation and Operational Research: Affordable Care Act Implementation in a California Health Care System Leads to Growth in HIV-Positive Patient Enrollment and Changes in Patient Characteristics
Authors: Satre Derek D. , Altschuler Andrea , Parthasarathy Sujaya , Silverberg Michael J. , Volberding Paul , Campbell Cynthia I.
Published: October 2016

Objectives:

This study examined implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in relation to HIV-positive patient enrollment in an integrated health care system; as well as changes in new enrollee characteristics, benefit structure, and health care utilization after key ACA provisions went into effect in 2014.

Methods:

This mixed-methods study was set in Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC). Qualitative interviews with 29 KPNC leaders explored planning for ACA implementation. Quantitative analyses compared newly enrolled HIV-positive patients in KPNC between January and December 2012 (“pre-ACA,” N = 661) with newly enrolled HIV-positive patients between January and December 2014 (“post-ACA,” N = 880) on demographics; medical, psychiatric, and substance use disorder diagnoses; HIV clinical indicators; and type of health care utilization.

Results:

Interviews found that ACA preparation focused on enrollment growth, staffing, competition among health plans, concern about cost sharing, and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) services. Quantitative analyses found that post-ACA HIV-positive patient enrollment grew. New enrollees in 2014 were more likely than 2012 enrollees to be enrolled in high-deductible plans (P < 0.01) or through Medicaid (P < 0.01), and marginally more likely to have better HIV viral control (P < 0.10). They also were more likely to be diagnosed with asthma (P < 0.01) or substance use disorders (P < 0.05) and to have used primary care health services in the 6 months postenrollment (P < 0.05) than the pre-ACA cohort.

Conclusions:

As anticipated by KPNC interviewees, ACA implementation was followed by HIV-positive patient enrollment growth and changing benefit structures and patient characteristics. Although HIV viral control improved, comorbid diagnosis findings reinforced the importance of coordinated health care.
Yawn duration predicts brain weight and cortical neuron number in mammals
Authors: Gallup Andrew C. , Church Allyson M. , Pelegrino Anthony J.
Published: October 2016

Research indicates that the motor action pattern of yawning functions to promote cortical arousal and state change through enhanced intracranial circulation and brain cooling. Because the magnitude of this response likely corresponds to the degree of neurophysiological change, we hypothesized that interspecies variation in yawn duration would correlate with underlying neurological differences. Using openly accessible data, we show that both the mean and variance in yawn duration are robust predictors of mammalian brain weight and cortical neuron number (
ρ
-values > 0.9). Consistent with these effects, primates tend to have longer and more variable yawn durations compared with other mammals. Although yawning has long been considered a stereotyped action pattern, these findings reveal substantial variation in this response and highlight the importance of measuring yawn duration in future research.
Musculoskeletal modelling under an evolutionary perspective: deciphering the role of single muscle regions in closely related insects
Authors: David Sina , Funken Johannes , Potthast Wolfgang , Blanke Alexander
Published: October 2016

Insects show a remarkable diversity of muscle configurations, yet the factors leading to this functional diversity are poorly understood. Here, we use musculoskeletal modelling to understand the spatio-temporal activity of an insect muscle in several dragonfly species and to reveal potential mechanical factors leading to a particular muscle configuration. Bite characteristics potentially show systematic signal, but absolute bite force is not correlated with size. Muscle configuration and inverse dynamics show that the wider relative area of muscle attachment and the higher activity of subapical muscle groups are responsible for this high bite force. This wider attachment area is, however, not an evolutionary trend within dragonflies. Our inverse dynamic data, furthermore, show that maximum bite forces most probably do not reflect maximal muscle force production capability in all studied species. The thin head capsule and the attachment areas of muscles most probably limit the maximum force output of the mandibular muscles.
Temporal and spatial variation of beaked and sperm whales foraging activity in Hawai'i, as determined with passive acoustics
Authors: Giorli Giacomo , Neuheimer Anna , Copeland Adrienne , Au Whitlow W. L.
Published: October 2016

Beaked and sperm whales are top predators living in the waters off the Kona coast of Hawai'i. Temporal and spatial analyses of the foraging activity of these two species were studied with passive acoustics techniques. Three passive acoustics recorders moored to the ocean floor were used to monitor the foraging activity of these whales in three locations along the Kona coast of the island of Hawaii. Data were analyzed using automatic detector/classification systems: M3R (Marine Mammal Monitoring on Navy Ranges), and custom-designed Matlab programs. The temporal variation in foraging activity was species-specific: beaked whales foraged more at night in the north, and more during the day-time off Kailua-Kona. No day-time/night-time preference was found in the southern end of the sampling range. Sperm whales foraged mainly at night in the north, but no day-time/night-time preference was observed off Kailua-Kona and in the south. A Generalized Linear Model was then applied to assess whether location and chlorophyll concentration affected the foraging activity of each species. Chlorophyll concentration and location influenced the foraging activity of both these species of deep-diving odontocetes.
Reliability and Validity of Quantitative Video Analysis of Baseball Pitching Motion
Authors: Oyama Sakiko , Sosa Araceli , Campbell Rebekah , Correa Alexandra
Published: October 2016

Video recordings are used to quantitatively analyze pitchers’ techniques. However, reliability and validity of such analysis is unknown. The purpose of the study was to investigate the reliability and validity of joint and segment angles identified during a pitching motion using video analysis. Thirty high school baseball pitchers participated. The pitching motion was captured using 2 high-speed video cameras and a motion capture system. Two raters reviewed the videos to digitize the body segments to calculate 2-dimensional angles. The corresponding 3-dimensional angles were calculated from the motion capture data. Intrarater reliability, interrater reliability, and validity of the 2-dimensional angles were determined. The intrarater and interrater reliability of the 2-dimensional angles were high for most variables. The trunk contralateral flexion at maximum external rotation was the only variable with high validity. Trunk contralateral flexion at ball release, trunk forward flexion at foot contact and ball release, shoulder elevation angle at foot contact, and maximum shoulder external rotation had moderate validity. Two-dimensional angles at the shoulder, elbow, and trunk could be measured with high reliability. However, the angles are not necessarily anatomically correct, and thus use of quantitative video analysis should be limited to angles that can be measured with good validity.
Physical Activity and Adiposity Among Older Adults of the EVIDENT Study
Authors: Recio-Rodríguez José I. , Sanchez-Aguadero Natalia , Rodríguez-Sánchez Emiliano , Martinez-Vizcaino Vicente , Martin-Cantera Carlos , Patino-Alonso Maria C. , Maderuelo-Fernandez Jose A. , Gómez-Marcos Manuel A. , Garcia-Ortiz Luis , _ _
Published: October 2016

This study determined the relationship between self-reported and objective measurements of physical activity with adiposity markers in a random sample of community-dwelling older adults. The sample included 439 individuals over 65 years (age 71.1 ± 7.8; 54.2% women). Regular physical activity information was collected using self-reported (questionnaire, 7-day-PAR) and objective measurements (accelerometer ActiGraph GT3X) over 7 days. Anthropometric parameters included body mass index, body fat percentage, and waist circumference. The number of patients considered active was 28% according to the results of 7-day PAR, and 69% according to objective measures of accelerometry. With every daily increase of 10 min of sedentary activity, the BMI, body fat percentage, and waist circumference values increased by 0.04 units, 0.14%, and 0.14 cm, respectively. According to the accelerometry data, being active was a protective factor for presenting obesity criteria (OR = 0.34, CI 95% 0.19–0.59). Objective but non self-reported physical activity was associated with adiposity markers in older adults.
Small-cell neuroendocrine cancer of the prostate: an atypical presentation of a common disease
Authors: Alves Daniela , Calmeiro Maria Eufémia , Silva Rosa , Coelho Hugo
Published: October 2016

A 70-year-old man with a history of prostate cancer, previously submitted to surgical castration and trans-urethral resection of the prostate, was admitted to Accident and Emergency department. He had been suffering from osteoarticular and abdominal pain, and recent weight loss. An abdominal and a pelvic CT showed multiple hepatic metastases and a pelvic mass, but his prostate-specific antigen values were low (0.26 n/mL). A biopsy of a hepatic metastasis and of the pelvic mass revealed a small-cell neuroendocrine prostate cancer, a rare and aggressive androgen-independent form of prostate cancer with a poor prognosis. Our purpose was to report a clinical case of a rare and aggressive variant of a common disease. A high index of suspicion is required to make an early diagnosis and to ensure a proper therapeutic approach.
Glutamine attenuates obstructive cholestasis in rats via farnesoid X receptor–mediated regulation of Bsep and Mrp2
Authors: Liu Bingli , Li Yiming , Ji Hong , Lu Hongwei , Li Hua , Shi Yakun
Published: October 2016

To investigate the protective effect of glutamine (Gln) against obstructive cholestasis in association with farnesoid X receptor (FXR) activation, an obstructive cholestasis model was established in male Sprague–Dawley rats by bile duct ligation (BDL). Serum biomarkers and hematoxylin plus eosin staining were used to identify the degree of hepatic injury in the rats with obstructive cholestasis after Gln treatment. Immunohistochemistry, real-time PCR, Western blot, cultured primary rat hepatocytes with FXR knockdown, and dual-luciferase reporter assay were performed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying Gln hepatoprotection. We found that Gln treatment protected against obstructive cholestasis induced by BDL through reducing hepatocyte injury. Upregulation of the hepatic efflux transporters small heterodimer partner (Shp), bile salt export pump (Bsep), and multidrug resistance–associated protein 2 (Mrp2), and inhibition of the hepatic uptake transporter Na+/taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (Ntcp) and the bile acid synthesis enzyme cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (Cyp7a1) expression were observed in rats with BDL treated with Gln in vivo. Furthermore, the regulatory effect of Gln on Bsep and Mrp2 expression was abrogated after FXR knockdown in rat primary cultured hepatocytes. Luciferase assay HepG2 cells also illustrated FXR was a direct target for Gln treatment. In conclusion, the regulation of Bsep and Mrp2 expression mediated by FXR might be an important mechanism for Gln against obstructive cholestasis.
The triple Wronskian solutions to the variable-coefficient Manakov model
Authors: Zhang Yi , Ma Kun
Published: October 2016

In this paper, the variable-coefficient Manakov model whose bilinear form exists is mainly discussed. Based on the Wronskian technique, the triple Wronskian form solutions are obtained and the interactions between the two solitons are investigated.
The Economics of Obesity and Related Policy
Authors: Alston Julian M. , MacEwan Joanna P. , Okrent Abigail M.
Published: October 2016

The global obesity epidemic reflects increases in caloric consumption from food and reduced energy expenditure at work. Many factors have contributed to the epidemic, including changes in technology (e.g., innovations on farms and in food processing and products), lifestyles, and women's wages and employment. Public health insurance externalities might justify government intervention, but the policy record is mixed, with no great success stories to date. Well-directed taxes on calories, sugar, or fat might be economically efficient ways of reducing obesity, as might regulation of television advertising, food labeling policies, or other nutrition education programs. Policies that induce the food industry to redesign foods may be more effective than policies that rely on inducing response by consumers. Farm subsidies and nutrition policies are largely irrelevant to the issue and modifying agricultural R&D policy is not an economical way to curb obesity. However, preventive approaches directed at children show some promise.
Effect of Nanosilica on the Fresh Properties of Cement-Based Grouting Material in the Portland-Sulphoaluminate Composite System
Authors: Li Shengli , Xu Tingting
Published: October 2016

The effect of NS particle size and content on the fresh properties of the grouting material based on the portland-sulphoaluminate composite system was analyzed. The experimental results indicated that air content increased and apparent density decreased, with increased NS content, but the NS particle sizes have minimal effect on the air content and apparent density. The setting time of mortar was significantly shortened, with increased NS content; however, NS particle sizes had little influence on the setting time. The effect of fluidity on the mortars adding NS with particle size of 30 nm is larger than NS with particle sizes of 15 and 50 nm and the fluidity decreased with increased NS content, but the fluidity of mortars with the particle sizes of 15 and 50 nm is almost not affected by the NS content. XRD analysis shows that the formation of ettringite was promoted and the process of hydration reaction of cement was accelerated with the addition of NS. At the microscopic level, the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) of the grouting material became denser and the formation of C-S-H gel was promoted after adding NS.
PPAR Gamma in Neuroblastoma: The Translational Perspectives of Hypoglycemic Drugs
Authors: Vella Serena , Conaldi Pier Giulio , Florio Tullio , Pagano Aldo
Published: October 2016

Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common and aggressive pediatric cancer, characterized by a remarkable phenotypic diversity and high malignancy. The heterogeneous clinical behavior, ranging from spontaneous remission to fatal metastatic disease, is attributable to NB biology and genetics. Despite major advances in therapies, NB is still associated with a high morbidity and mortality. Thus, novel diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic approaches are required, mainly to improve treatment outcomes of high-risk NB patients. Among neuroepithelial cancers, NB is the most studied tumor as far as PPAR ligands are concerned. PPAR ligands are endowed with antitumoral effects, mainly acting on cancer stem cells, and constitute a possible add-on therapy to antiblastic drugs, in particular for NB with unfavourable prognosis. While discussing clinical background, this review will provide a synopsis of the major studies about PPAR expression in NB, focusing on the potential beneficial effects of hypoglycemic drugs, thiazolidinediones and metformin, to reduce the occurrence of relapses as well as tumor regrowth in NB patients.
Analysis of Predictors for Lymph Node Metastasis in Patients with Superficial Esophageal Carcinoma
Authors: Jia Ruzhen , Luan Qinsong , Wang Jing , Hou Dongsheng , Zhao Shulei
Published: October 2016

In order to predict related risk factors for lymph node metastasis (LNM) in patients with superficial esophageal carcinoma (SEC) and provide reference for endoscopic minimally invasive treatment, we included a total of 93 patients with superficial esophageal carcinoma who have underwent esophagectomy and lymph node dissection from 2010 to 2015. The depth of invasion was remeasured and classified into 6 groups according to their wall penetration. The prediction model was founded based on the independent risk factors. The results shows that lymph node metastasis of m1, m2, m3, sm1, sm2, and sm3 of superficial esophageal carcinoma was 0%, 0%, 5.3%, 8.7%, 17.6%, and 37.5%, respectively. The tumor size, differentiation, and lymphvascular invasion were also significantly related to lymph node metastasis by univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis showed that the depth of invasion and lymphovascular invasion were independent risk factors of lymph node metastasis. A prediction model for lymph node metastasis was established as follows: p=ex/(1+ex), and x = −5.469 + 0.839 × depth of invasion + 1.992 × lymphavascular metastasis. The area under ROC curve was 0.858 (95% CI: 0.757–0.959). It was also shown that the depth of invasion was related to tumor differentiation, macroscopic type, and tumor size.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity of Quaternary Ammonium 4-Deoxypyridoxine Derivatives
Authors: Shtyrlin Nikita V. , Sapozhnikov Sergey V. , Galiullina Albina S. , Kayumov Airat R. , Bondar Oksana V. , Mirchink Elena P. , Isakova Elena B. , Firsov Alexander A. , Balakin Konstantin V. , Shtyrlin Yurii G.
Published: October 2016

A series of novel quaternary ammonium 4-deoxypyridoxine derivatives was synthesized. Two compounds demonstrated excellent activity against a panel of Gram-positive methicillin-resistantS. aureusstrains with MICs in the range of 0.5–2 μg/mL, exceeding the activity of miramistin. At the same time, both compounds were inactive against the Gram-negativeE. coliandP. aeruginosastrains. Cytotoxicity studies on human skin fibroblasts and embryonic kidney cells demonstrated that the active compounds possessed similar toxicity with benzalkonium chloride but were slightly more toxic than miramistin. SOS-chromotest inS. typhimuriumshowed the lack of DNA-damage activity of both compounds; meanwhile, one compound showed some mutagenic potential in the Ames test. The obtained results make the described chemotype a promising starting point for the development of new antibacterial therapies.
Defensive Nymphs of the Woolly AphidThoracaphis kashifolia(Hemiptera) on the OakQuercus glauca
Authors: Kurosu Utako , Aoki Shigeyuki , Uematsu Keigo , Kutsukake Mayako , Fukatsu Takema
Published: October 2016

Aphid nymphs with enlarged fore- and mid-legs were found from woolly colonies ofThoracaphis kashifolia(Hormaphidinae, Nipponaphidini) on leaves of the evergreenQuercus glaucain Japan. It was shown that they grasped an introduced moth larva with their legs and some inserted their stylets deep into the body. These defenders were first-instar nymphs of the alate generation and were produced by aleyrodiform apterae from early September onward. There was a large variation in the size of their forelegs. First-instar nymphs (to be alates) produced early in the season had fore-femorotrochanters shorter than those produced later. The molting rate (the percentage of pharate individuals) of the latter was very low (less than 5% to zero), suggesting their semisterility. Although first-instar nymphs with various lengths of forelegs joined to attack moth larvae, these facts indicate that an incipient caste differentiation occurs within the first-instar nymphs of the alate generation.
Mechanical Performance and Chloride Diffusivity of Cracked RC Specimens Exposed to Freeze-Thaw Cycles and Intermittent Immersion in Seawater
Authors: Shen Bei , Ye Yinghua , Diao Bo , Zheng Xiaoning
Published: October 2016

The effects of crack width on chloride ingress and mechanical behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) specimens were experimentally studied after exposure to 300 cycles of freeze-thaw and seawater immersion (75 times). Cracks were induced prior to exposure by an eccentric compression load which was sustained until the end of the exposure period. The maximum cracks widths induced in the four column specimens were 0, 0.06, 0.11, and 0.15 mm, respectively. Results show that when the crack width was less than 0.06 mm, the effect of cracks on chloride ingress could be neglected. However, when the crack width was more than 0.11 mm, chloride ingress was accelerated. Results of static loading tests show that both yield load and ultimate load of RC columns decreased as crack width increased. When the crack width was 0.15 mm, yield load and ultimate load of RC column specimen decreased by 17.0% and 18.9%, respectively, compared to a specimen without cracks. It was concluded that crack width significantly promoted local chloride ingress and mechanical performance degradation of RC structures in cold coastal regions or exposed to deicing salts.