bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of fiber optic installation methods, a case study on micro-trenching in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Vaseli Hediyeh , Hashemian Leila , Bayat Alireza , Gay Leon , Williams Ian , Melzer Jordan
Published: August 2017

Micro-trenching is an innovative and discreet utility installation method that includes the creation of a narrow trench to lay cable or conduit in the ground. To investigate the functionality and durability of micro-trenching in cold regions, two micro-trenching technologies were employed and monitored over the course of two winters in a parking lot in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. During construction, productivity rate and generated waste material were studied. The installation’s physical integrity and optical performance were also evaluated during the monitoring period. Physical integrity was assessed by monitoring the conduit location using ground-penetrating radar (GPR), and an optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) test was conducted to determine attenuation in performance. Results indicated that the installation experienced undesirable upward and downward movements in sections with high traffic load, which may be prevented with a more effective reinstatement method. However, the fiber’s optical performance was not affected.
Transcriptomic responses to environmental change in fishes: Insights from RNA sequencing
Authors: Oomen Rebekah A. , Hutchings Jeffrey A.
Published: August 2017

The need to better understand how plasticity and evolution affect organismal responses to environmental variability is paramount in the face of global climate change. The potential for using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to study complex responses by non-model organisms to the environment is evident in a rapidly growing body of literature. This is particularly true of fishes for which research has been motivated by their ecological importance, socioeconomic value, and increased use as model species for medical and genetic research. Here, we review studies that have used RNA-seq to study transcriptomic responses to continuous abiotic variables to which fishes have likely evolved a response and that are predicted to be affected by climate change (e.g., salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen concentration, and pH). Field and laboratory experiments demonstrate the potential for individuals to respond plastically to short- and long-term environmental stress and reveal molecular mechanisms underlying developmental and transgenerational plasticity, as well as adaptation to different environmental regimes. We discuss experimental, analytical, and conceptual issues that have arisen from this work and suggest avenues for future study.
Modified inertial mass from information loss
Authors: McCulloch Michael E. , Giné Jaume
Published: August 2017

A modification of inertia (called MiHsC or quantized inertia) has been proposed that assumes that inertia is caused by Unruh radiation, and that this radiation is made inhomogeneous in space by either Rindler horizons caused by acceleration or the distant Hubble horizon. The former predicts the standard inertial mass, and the latter predicts galaxy rotation without dark matter and cosmic acceleration without dark energy. It is proposed here that this model can be derived in an alternative way by assuming that the sum of mass (M), energy (E) and the information content of horizons (I) is conserved (EMI) so that mass–energy is released in a discrete manner when the area of a Rindler horizon reduces. This model could be tested by looking for the quantization of inertial mass and acceleration at very high accelerations, and may provide an explanation for the cosmological constant problem.
A comprehensive survey of brane tilings
Authors: Franco Sebastián , He Yang-Hui , Sun Chuang , Xiao Yan
Published: August 2017

An infinite class of [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] gauge theories can be engineered on the worldvolume of D3-branes probing toric Calabi–Yau 3-folds. This kind of setup has multiple applications, ranging from the gauge/gravity correspondence to local model building in string phenomenology. Brane tilings fully encode the gauge theories on the D3-branes and have substantially simplified their connection to the probed geometries. The purpose of this paper is to push the boundaries of computation and to produce as comprehensive a database of brane tilings as possible. We develop efficient implementations of brane tiling tools particularly suited for this search. We present the first complete classification of toric Calabi–Yau 3-folds with toric diagrams up to area 8 and the corresponding brane tilings. This classification is of interest to both physicists and mathematicians alike.
Noncommutative Brownian motion
Authors: Santos Willien O. , Almeida Guilherme M. A. , Souza Andre M. C.
Published: August 2017

We investigate the classical Brownian motion of a particle in a two-dimensional noncommutative (NC) space. Using the standard NC algebra embodied by the symplectic Weyl–Moyal formalism we find that noncommutativity induces a nonvanishing correlation between both coordinates at different times. The effect stands out as a signature of spatial noncommutativity and thus could offer a way to experimentally detect the phenomena. We further discuss some limiting scenarios and the trade-off between the scale imposed by the NC structure and the parameters of the Brownian motion itself.
Coupling dynamic modeling and simulation of three-degree-of-freedom micromanipulator based on piezoelectric ceramic of fuzzy PID
Authors: Li Dongjie , Fu Yu , Yang Liu
Published: August 2017

For further research on the microparticles trajectory in the process of micromanipulation, the paper modeled on the coupling dynamic of three-degree-of-freedom micromanipulator which is based on piezoelectric ceramic. In the micromanipulation, the transformation of certain movement direction can generate a corresponding change in the coupling in three-degree-of-freedom micromanipulator movement, the fuzzy PID method was adopted by the control system of this study, and the modeling analysis was performed on the control system. After completing the above modeling, the simulation model is built by the MATLAB Simulink software. The simulation output results are basically in accordance with the actual trajectory, which achieve the successful research purposes of coupling dynamics model for three-degree-of-freedom micromanipulator and application of fuzzy PID method.
Cascading failures in interdependent modular networks with partial random coupling preference
Authors: Tian Meng , Wang Xianpei , Dong Zhengcheng , Zhu Guowei , Long Jiachuang , Dai Dangdang , Zhang Qilin
Published: August 2017

Cascading failures have been widely analyzed in interdependent networks with different coupling preferences from microscopic and macroscopic perspectives in recent years. Plenty of real-world interdependent infrastructures, representing as interdependent networks, exhibit community structure, one of the most important mesoscopic structures, and partial coupling preferences, which can affect cascading failures in interdependent networks. In this paper, we propose the partial random coupling in communities, investigating cascading failures in interdependent modular scale-free networks under inner attacks and hub attacks. We mainly analyze the effects of the discoupling probability and the intermodular connection probability on cascading failures in interdependent networks. We find that increasing either the dicoupling probability or the intermodular connection probability can enhance the network robustness under both hub attacks and inner attacks. We also note that the community structure can prevent cascading failures spreading globally in entire interdependent networks. Finally, we obtain the result that if we want to efficiently improve the robustness of interdependent networks and reduce the protection cost, the intermodular connection probability should be protected preferentially, implying that improving the robustness of a single network is the fundamental method to enhance the robustness of the entire interdependent networks.
TUMOR-INFILTRATING LYMPHOCYTES AND P-GLYCOPROTEIN/MELANOMA ANTIGEN A EXPRESSION IN VINCRISTINE-TREATED CANINE TRANSMISSIBLE VENEREAL TUMORS
Authors: Chang Shih-Chieh , Chen Yeh-Ku , Cheng Yu-Chun , Chen Yi-Chen , Liao Jiunn-Wang
Published: August 2017

In this study, canine transmissible venereal tumors (CTVTs) were evaluated for tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, MHC class II antigen expression, melanoma antigen A (MAGE-A protein), and P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Vincristine (VCR)-sensitive CTVTs (VSCTVTs) were evaluated before and after VCR treatment. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to evaluate the numbers of CD3[Formula: see text] lymphocytes, CD79a[Formula: see text] lymphocytes, and MHC II[Formula: see text] CTVT cells. Expression levels of P-gp, MAGE-A, and MHC class II antigen were evaluated. The numbers of CD3[Formula: see text] lymphocytes, CD79a[Formula: see text] lymphocytes, and MHC II[Formula: see text] CTVT cells were significantly elevated ([Formula: see text]). After VCR treatment, 100% (8/8) of VSCTVTs exhibited significantly higher MAGE-A expression in CTVT cells, compared with 74% (20/27) of VSCTVTs before VCR treatment. Strong expression of P-gp was found in 14.2% (1/7) of VSCTVTs after VCR treatment compared with VSCTVTs before treatment (83.3%, 5/6). These results demonstrated that regression of VSCTVTs following VCR treatment was associated with an obvious increase in the proportion of MHC class II[Formula: see text] CTVT cells and a significant increase in infiltration by T (CD3[Formula: see text] and B (CD79a[Formula: see text] lymphocytes, as well as decreased expression of P-gp and increased expression of MAGE-A in CTVT cells.
Insulin Resistance Predicts Atherogenic Lipoprotein Profile in Nondiabetic Subjects
Authors: Cartolano Flávia De C. , Dias Gabriela D. , Freitas Maria C. P. de , Figueiredo Neto Antônio M. , Damasceno Nágila R. T.
Published: August 2017

Background. Atherogenic diabetes is associated with an increased cardiovascular risk and mortality in diabetic individuals; however, the impact of insulin resistance (IR) in lipid metabolism in preclinical stages is generally underreported. For that, we evaluated the capacity of IR to predict an atherogenic lipid subfraction profile.Methods. Complete clinical evaluation and biochemical analysis (lipid, glucose profile, LDL, and HDL subfractions and LDL phenotype and size) were performed in 181 patients. The impact of IR as a predictor of atherogenic lipoproteins was tested by logistic regression analysis in raw and adjusted models.Results. HDL-C and Apo AI were significantly lower in individuals with IR. Individuals with IR had a higher percentage of small HDL particles, lower percentage in the larger ones, and reduced frequency of phenotype A (IR = 62%; non-IR = 83%). IR individuals had reduced probability to have large HDL (OR = 0.213; CI = 0.999–0.457) and had twice more chances to show increased small HDL (OR = 2.486; CI = 1.341–7.051). IR was a significant predictor of small LDL (OR = 3.075; CI = 1.341–7.051) and atherogenic phenotype (OR = 3.176; CI = 1.469–6.867).Conclusion. IR, previously DM2 diagnosis, is a strong predictor of quantitative and qualitative features of lipoproteins directly associated with an increased atherogenic risk.
A Simple but Accurate Method for Evaluating Drug-Resistance in Infectious HCVcc System
Authors: Li Jian-Rui , Li Wen-Jing , Cheng Jun-Jun , Huang Meng-Hao , Wu Zhou-Yi , Jiang Chen-Chen , Li Hu , Chen Jin-Hua , Lv Xiao-Qin , Dong Biao , Jiang Jian-Dong , Peng Zong-Gen
Published: August 2017

Use of direct-acting antivirals sometimes causes viral drug resistance, resulting in inefficiency in treated patients in real-world practice. Therefore, how to rapidly and accurately evaluate drug resistance is an urgent problem to be solved for rational use and development of antivirals in the future. Here, we aim to develop a new method by which we can evaluate easily but effectively whether a drug will still be efficient in the future treatment in infectious hepatitis C virus cell culture system. HCV-infected Huh7.5 cells were treated with drugs and the culture supernatants were replaced with fresh culture media containing the same drugs at 24 hours. The supernatants were harvested at 48 hours and incubated with naïve Huh7.5 cells. Intracellular HCV RNAs or proteins in the newly infected cells were extracted and analyzed at 48 hours or longer. Results showed that after being treated with telaprevir mutant viruses were easily detected which were resistant to telaprevir, while after being treated with sofosbuvir drug-resistant viruses did not emerge. In conclusion, the new method is simple and quick but accurate to evaluate whether a drug will be still efficient in the forthcoming therapeutic regimen and whether drug resistance will occur after long-term treatment with drugs.
Metastatic Melanoma of the Gallbladder in an Asymptomatic Patient
Authors: Khan Asad , Patel Sejal , Zaccarini Daniel J. , McGrath Mary
Published: August 2017

Malignant Melanoma (MM) is among the most dangerous malignancies with some of the least known survival rates. Melanoma most commonly metastasizes to regional lymph nodes, the lungs, and brain. Metastatic disease of the gallbladder (GB) is exceptionally rare making it difficult to diagnose. The fact that typically patients do not present until they are symptomatic—only after widespread metastatic disease has already occurred—is further complicating the diagnosis of MM of the GB. For this reason, MM of the GB is rarely discovered in living patients. In fact, review of the literature showed only 40 instances in which metastatic disease of the GB was reported in living patients. We describe the presentation and management of a patient who had metastatic disease of the GB. However, our case is unique because his malignancy was discovered incidentally while he was asymptomatic. He was successfully treated with an open cholecystectomy. We have presented this case in order to make the necessity of meticulous investigation of potential metastasis in patients with a known history of cutaneous melanoma clear.
Suppressive Effect of the n‐Hexane Extract of Litsea japonica Fruit Flesh on Monosodium‐Iodoacetate‐Induced Osteoarthritis in Rats
Authors: Kim Seung-Hyung , Choi Hye-Jin , Yang Won-Kyung , Lee Ji-Eun , Cho Ju-Hyun , Park In-Jae , Park Sunyoung , Park Bo-Kyung , Jin Mirim
Published: August 2017

We examined the antiosteoarthritic effect of the n‐hexane extract of Litsea japonica fruit flesh (LJF‐HE) in a rat model of monosodium‐iodoacetate‐ (MIA‐) induced osteoarthritis. LJF‐HE significantly reduced the difference in weight‐bearing capabilities of the hind paws between healthy and MIA‐treated rats. Histological examination of the knee joints indicated that LJF‐HE suppressed cartilage and bone destruction. Additionally, there were decreases in the expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and metalloproteinase‐9 and cyclooxygenase‐2 in the joints. The serum levels of deoxypyridinoline (DPD) and osteocalcin, which are markers of bone metabolism, also decreased. Furthermore, LJF‐HE significantly suppressed infiltration of inflammatory cells into the synovium and inhibited the expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor‐ (TNF‐) α, interleukin‐ (IL‐) 1, and IL‐6 in the joints and serum. The serum levels of leukotriene B4 and lipoxygenase were also significantly lowered by LJF‐HE. Finally, LJF‐HE inhibited the production of nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, IL‐6, and TNF‐α in lipopolysaccharide‐activated macrophages, which might be associated with inhibited phosphorylation of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase. Our data suggest that LJF‐HE has an anti‐inflammatory effect and may have potential as an antiosteoarthritic agent.
Independent Subspace Analysis of the Sea Surface Temperature Variability: Non-Gaussian Sources and Sensitivity to Sampling and Dimensionality
Authors: Pires Carlos A. L. , Hannachi Abdel
Published: August 2017

We propose an expansion of multivariate time-series data into maximally independent source subspaces. The search is made among rotations of prewhitened data which maximize non-Gaussianity of candidate sources. We use a tensorial invariant approximation of the multivariate negentropy in terms of a linear combination of squared coskewness and cokurtosis. By solving a high-order singular value decomposition problem, we extract the axes associated with most non-Gaussianity. Moreover, an estimate of the Gaussian subspace is provided by the trailing singular vectors. The independent subspaces are obtained through the search of “quasi-independent” components within the estimated non-Gaussian subspace, followed by the identification of groups with significant joint negentropies. Sources result essentially from the coherency of extremes of the data components. The method is then applied to the global sea surface temperature anomalies, equatorward of 65°, after being tested with non-Gaussian surrogates consistent with the data anomalies. The main emerging independent components and subspaces, supposedly generated by independent forcing, include different variability modes, namely, The East-Pacific, the Central Pacific, and the Atlantic Niños, the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation, along with the subtropical dipoles in the Indian, South Pacific, and South-Atlantic oceans. Benefits and usefulness of independent subspaces are then discussed.
Nonpaternity and Half-Siblingships as Objective Measures of Extramarital Sex: Mathematical Modeling and Simulations
Authors: Omori Ryosuke , Nagelkerke Nico , Abu-Raddad Laith J.
Published: August 2017

Background. Understanding the epidemiology of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) requires knowledge of sexual behavior, but self-reported behavior has limitations. We explored the reliability and validity of nonpaternity and half-siblings ratios as biomarkers of current and past extramarital sex. Methods. An individual-based Monte Carlo simulation model was constructed to describe partnering and conception in human populations with a focus on Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The model was parameterized with representative biological, behavioral, and demographic data. Results. Nonpaternity and half-siblings ratios were strongly correlated with extramarital sex, with Pearson correlation coefficients (PCC) of 0.79 (95% CI: 0.71–0.86) and 0.77 (0.68–0.84), respectively. Age-specific nonpaternity ratios correlated with past extramarital sex at time of conception for different scenarios: for example, PCC, after smoothing by moving averages, was 0.75 (0.52–0.89) in a scenario of steadily decreasing nonmarital sex and 0.39 (0.01–0.73) in a scenario of transient drops in nonmarital sex. Simulations assuming self-reported levels of extramarital sex from Kenya yielded nonpaternity levels lower than global nonpaternity data, suggesting sizable underreporting of extramarital sex. Conclusions. Nonpaternity and half-siblings ratios are useful objective measures of extramarital sex that avoid limitations in self-reported sexual behavior.
Duodenum-Preserving Resection of the Pancreatic Head versus Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Treatment of Chronic Pancreatitis with Enlargement of the Pancreatic Head: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhao Yajie , Zhang Jianwei , Lan Zhongmin , Jiang Qinglong , Zhang Shuisheng , Chu Yunmian , Wang Chengfeng
Published: August 2017

The results of this meta-analysis show that DPPHR should be established as first-line treatment because of lower level of severe early postoperative complications, maintenance of endocrine pancreatic functions, shortening of postoperative hospitalization time, and increase of quality of life compared to pancreaticoduodenectomy.
Plants‐Derived Neuroprotective Agents: Cutting the Cycle of Cell Death through Multiple Mechanisms
Authors: Elufioye Taiwo Olayemi , Berida Tomayo Ireti , Habtemariam Solomon
Published: August 2017

Neuroprotection is the preservation of the structure and function of neurons from insults arising from cellular injuries induced by a variety of agents or neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). The various NDs including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases as well as amyotropic lateral sclerosis affect millions of people around the world with the main risk factor being advancing age. Each of these diseases affects specific neurons and/or regions in the brain and involves characteristic pathological and molecular features. Hence, several in vitro and in vivo study models specific to each disease have been employed to study NDs with the aim of understanding their underlying mechanisms and identifying new therapeutic strategies. Of the most prevalent drug development efforts employed in the past few decades, mechanisms implicated in the accumulation of protein‐based deposits, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and certain neurotransmitter deficits such as acetylcholine and dopamine have been scrutinized in great detail. In this review, we presented classical examples of plant‐derived neuroprotective agents by highlighting their structural class and specific mechanisms of action. Many of these natural products that have shown therapeutic efficacies appear to be working through the above‐mentioned key multiple mechanisms of action.
Modal and Vibration Analysis of Filter System in Petrochemical Plant
Authors: Liu Zhongchi , Wang Ji , Gho Wie Min , Liu Xiao , Yu Xuebing
Published: August 2017

Filter systems are widely used in petrochemical plants for removing solid impurities from hydrocarbon oils. The backwash is the cleaning process used to remove the impurities on the sieves of the filters without a need to interrupt the operation of the entire system. This paper presents a case study based on the actual project of a filter system in a petrochemical plant, to demonstrate the significant effect of vibration on the structural integrity of piping. The induced vibration had led to the structural fatigue failure of the pipes connecting the filter system. A preliminary assessment suggested that the vibrations are caused by the operation of backwashing of the filter system. A process for solving the vibration problem based on the modal analysis of the filter system using the commercial finite element software for simulation is therefore proposed. The computed natural frequencies of the system and the vibration data measured on site are assessed based on the resonance effect of the complete system including the piping connected to the filters. Several approaches are proposed to adjust the natural frequencies of the system in such a way that an optimal and a reasonable solution for solving the vibration problem is obtained.
Echocardiographic Techniques of Deformation Imaging in the Evaluation of Maternal Cardiovascular System in Patients with Complicated Pregnancies
Authors: Visentin Silvia , Palermo Chiara , Camerin Martina , Daliento Luciano , Muraru Denisa , Cosmi Erich , Badano Luigi P.
Published: August 2017

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) represent the leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. Knowledge of CVD in women is constantly evolving and data are emerging that female-specific risk factors as complications of pregnancy are conditions associated with an increased risk for the long-term development of CVD. Echocardiography is a safe and effective imaging technique indicated in symptomatic or asymptomatic pregnant women with congenital heart diseases who require close monitoring of cardiac function. Deformation imaging is an echocardiographic technique used to assess myocardial function by measuring the actual deformation of the myocardium through the cardiac cycle. Speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) is a two-dimensional (2D) technique which has been found to be more accurate than tissue Doppler to assess both left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) myocardial function. The use of 2D STE however might present some technical issues due to the tomographic nature of the technique and the motion in the three-dimensional space of the myocardial speckles. This has promoted the use of 3D STE to track the motion of the speckles in the 3D space. This review will focus on the clinical value of the new echocardiographic techniques of deformation imaging used to assess the maternal cardiovascular system in complicated pregnancies.
Supplier’s Joint Investments in Cost Reduction and Quality Improvement in a Decentralized Supply Chain
Authors: Zhang Hengyun , Hong Dingjun
Published: August 2017

We consider a decentralized supply chain with a downstream manufacturer and an upstream supplier. The upstream supplier sells a product to the manufacturer, who faces a quality and price sensitive demand. The supplier has a chance to invest in both cost reduction and quality improvement of its product. We derive the optimal investment and pricing decisions for the supply chain members. We do so in both the centralized and the decentralized supply chains. We show that the optimal investment and pricing decisions in the decentralized supply chain may deviate from that in the centralized supply chain. We develop a mechanism to coordinate the decentralized supply chain. The developed mechanism contains four policies: wholesale price, sharing of revenue, sharing of cost reduction investment cost, and sharing of quality improvement investment cost. We also show that the developed coordination mechanism can lead to Pareto improvement.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Validation of the Vibration Modes for a Processing Reciprocating Compressor
Authors: Zhao Ying , Chen Jiahao , Zhou Qiang , Jia Xiaohan , Peng Xueyuan
Published: August 2017

The low-order vibration modes of a reciprocating compressor were studied by means of numerical simulation and experimental validation. A shell element model, a beam element model, and two solid element models were established to investigate the effects of bolted joints and element types on low-order vibration modes of the compressor. Three typical cases were compared to check the effect of locations of moving parts on the vibration modes of the compressor. A forced modal test with the MRIT (Multiple References Impact Test) technique was conducted to validate the simulation results. Among four numerical models, the solid element model with the bolt-pretension method showed the best accuracy compared with experimental data but the worst computational efficiency. The shell element model is recommended to predict the low-order vibration modes of the compressor with regard to effectiveness and usefulness. The sparsely distributed bolted joints with a small bonded region on the contact surface were key bolted joints that had greater impacts on the low-order vibration modes of the compressor than the densely distributed bolted joints. The positions of the moving parts had little effect on the low-order vibration modes of the compressor.
Gut Microbial Influences on the Mammalian Intestinal Stem Cell Niche
Authors: Peck Bailey C. E. , Shanahan Michael T. , Singh Ajeet P. , Sethupathy Praveen
Published: August 2017

The mammalian intestinal epithelial stem cell (IESC) niche is comprised of diverse epithelial, immune, and stromal cells, which together respond to environmental changes within the lumen and exert coordinated regulation of IESC behavior. There is growing appreciation for the role of the gut microbiota in modulating intestinal proliferation and differentiation, as well as other aspects of intestinal physiology. In this review, we evaluate the diverse roles of known niche cells in responding to gut microbiota and supporting IESCs. Furthermore, we discuss the potential mechanisms by which microbiota may exert their influence on niche cells and possibly on IESCs directly. Finally, we present an overview of the benefits and limitations of available tools to study niche-microbe interactions and provide our recommendations regarding their use and standardization. The study of host-microbe interactions in the gut is a rapidly growing field, and the IESC niche is at the forefront of host-microbe activity to control nutrient absorption, endocrine signaling, energy homeostasis, immune response, and systemic health.
Assessment of Environmental Attitudes and Risk Perceptions among University Students in Mersin, Turkey
Authors: Yapici Gulcin , Ögenler Oya , Kurt Ahmet Öner , Koçaş Fazıl , Şaşmaz Tayyar
Published: August 2017

Background. Environmental destruction is one of the most important problems in this century. Objective. The aim of the study was to determine the environmental attitudes and perceived risks associated with environmental factors of the students. Methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 7 faculties of Mersin University. The research data were collected using a questionnaire. The questionnaire included sociodemographic characteristics, the “Environmental Attitudes Scale,” and the “Environmental Risk Perception Scale.” 774 students who filled out questionnaires were evaluated. Results. The sample included 55.8% females. Environmental Attitudes Scale mean scores of students were identified as 81.1±11.3. The highest perceived risk was release of radioactive materials associated with nuclear power generation. The environmental attitudes and risk perception scores were higher in Health Sciences than in the other faculties. Females were more positive towards the environment and had higher risk perceptions than the men. There is a negative correlation between age and resource depletion risk and global environmental risk score. Conclusion. Students had a positive attitude to the environment and had moderate-level risk perception about the environment. Environmental awareness of students, especially those studying in the Social Sciences, should be increased. The environmental education curriculum should be revised throughout all the courses.
Denosumab for Male Hemodialysis Patients with Low Bone Mineral Density: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Takami Hiroya , Washio Kazunori , Gotoh Hiromichi
Published: August 2017

Denosumab increases bone mineral density (BMD) in patients not receiving hemodialysis therapy. However, limited data are available in the literature concerning the use of denosumab in hemodialysis patients. We treated male hemodialysis patients with low radius BMD with denosumab therapy for 1 year and evaluated its effect on radius BMD. Seventeen patients were treated with denosumab 60 mg every 6 months, and 20 patients were not treated with denosumab (control group). At seven days, the mean corrected calcium level decreased from 9.2±0.5 mg to 8.5±0.5 mg (P<0.01), and mean serum phosphorus decreased from 5.0±1.3 mg/dl to 4.2±0.9 mg/dl (P<0.01). At 1 month, the corrected calcium and serum phosphorus levels were 9.2±0.9 mg/dl and 4.0±1.1 mg/dl, respectively. At 1 year, BMD increased by 2.6%  ± 4.4% in the denosumab group and decreased by 4.5%  ± 7.7% in the control group (P<0.001). In our observational study, denosumab therapy represents an effective treatment for male dialysis patients with low BMD.
Influence of Irradiation Time on Structural, Morphological Properties of ZnO-NRs Films Deposited by MW-CBD and Their Photodiode Applications
Authors: Ilican Saliha , Gorgun Kamuran , Caglar Yasemin , Caglar Mujdat
Published: August 2017

Microwave-assisted chemical bath deposition (MW-CBD) was used to deposit zinc oxide nanorods (ZnO-NRs) films by using different microwave irradiation time. The films exhibit a good crystallinity having a hexagonal wurtzite phase formation. Although the dominant preferred orientation was not observed for the ZnO-5 and ZnO-10, ZnO-8 showed (002) preferred orientation. The emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) showed almost randomly oriented hexagonal nanorods on the surface. A slight decrease in the length of the observed hexagonal nanorods due to the increase in the irradiation time was observed, changing from 550 nm to 300 nm. The p-Si/n-ZnO-NRs heterojunction photodiodes were fabricated. The current-voltage characteristics of these photodiodes were investigated under dark and different illumination intensity. An increase in the reverse current with increasing illumination intensity confirmed that the fabricated photodiodes exhibited a photoconducting behavior. In addition, the barrier height and series resistance values of the photodiodes were determined from capacitance-voltage measurements.
The Topological Variable Computation for a Special Type of Cycloalkanes
Authors: Gao Wei , Chen Yaojun , Wang Weifan
Published: August 2017

As an efficient theoretical tool, graph theory is widely used in computing chemistry. In terms of index computation on molecular graphs, the researchers can learn the potential properties of chemical compounds, including drugs, materials, and organics. In this paper, by means of distance computation, we study the eccentric version indices of cycloalkanes which occur quite frequently in the chemical drugs and other compounds. The promising prospects of the application for the physical, chemical, medical, and pharmacy engineering are illustrated by theoretical conclusions obtained in this article.
Understanding Mind‐Body Interaction from the Perspective of East Asian Medicine
Authors: Lee Ye-Seul , Ryu Yeonhee , Jung Won-Mo , Kim Jungjoo , Lee Taehyung , Chae Younbyoung
Published: August 2017

Objective. Attempts to understand the emotion have evolved from the perspective of an independent cognitive system of the mind to that of an interactive response involving the body. This study aimed to quantify and visualize relationships between different emotions and bodily organ systems from the perspective of East Asian medicine. Methods. Term frequency‐inverse document frequency (tf‐idf) method was used to quantify the significance of Five Viscera and the gallbladder relative to seven different emotions through the classical medical text of DongUiBoGam. Bodily organs that corresponded to different emotions were visualized using a body template. Results. The emotions had superior tf‐idf values with the following bodily organs: anger with the liver, happiness with the heart, thoughtfulness with the heart and spleen, sadness with the heart and lungs, fear with the kidneys and the heart, surprise with the heart and the gallbladder, and anxiety with the heart and the lungs. Specific patterns between the emotions and corresponding bodily organ systems were identified. Conclusion. The present findings will further the current understanding of the relationship between the mind and body from the perspective of East Asian medicine. Western medicine characterizes emotional disorders using “neural” language while East Asian medicine uses “somatic” language.
Mitochondrial DNA Phylogenetics of Black Rhinoceros in Kenya in relation to Southern Africa Population
Authors: Githui Elijah K. , Thuo David N. , Amimo Joshua O. , Njagi Nyamu M. , Gitari Maryanne M.
Published: August 2017

Black rhinoceros(Diceros bicornis)are highly endangered due to poaching and other anthropological reasons and their protection to rebound the numbers and genetic improvement are necessary remedial measures defined by Rhino International Union of Conservation for the Nature Red List (IUCN). In Kenya black rhino numbers declined from approximately 20,000 in the 1970s to fewer than 400 in 1982. Wildlife conservation managers effected strategies to manage/breed the remaining rhinoceros populations in Eastern and Southern Africa within regional sanctuaries. This study analyzes the genetic variability of these remnant rhinoceros using Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Majority of the rhinoceros in both Kenyan and Southern Africa group are monophyletic clusters with insignificant genetic variations while some lineages are underrepresented. The Eastern Africa rhinoceros forms a distinct clade from the Sothern Africa counterpart while Tanzania population has admixtures. Tajima-D test showed that these two populations are under different selection pressure possibly due to different history of adverse anthropologic activities. Similarly, the Southern Africa rhinoceros have low genetic diversity compared to the Eastern African population due to extended periods of game hunting during Africa colonization. This study suggests that managed translocations of individual rhinoceros across the separated fragments can be applied to improve their genetic diversity.
Novel and Simple Ultrasonographic Methods for Estimating the Abdominal Visceral Fat Area
Authors: Asano Takeharu , Kubota Naoto , Koizumi Norihiro , Itani Kazunori , Mitake Tsuyoshi , Yuhashi Kazuhito , Liao Hongen , Mitsuishi Mamoru , Takeishi Shigemi , Takahashi Toshiaki , Ohnishi Shin , Sasaki Shiro , Sakuma Ichiro , Kadowaki Takashi
Published: August 2017

Objectives.To evaluate the abdominal visceral fat area (VFA), we developed novel ultrasonographic (US) methods for estimating.Methods.100 male volunteers were recruited, and their VFA was calculated by two novel US methods, the triangle method and the ellipse method. The VFA calculated by these methods was compared with the VFA calculated by CT.Results.Both the VFA calculated by the triangle method (r=0.766,p<0.001) and the ellipse method (r=0.781,p<0.001) showed a high correlation coefficient with the VFA calculated by CT. Also, the VFA calculated by our novel methods were significantly increased in subjects with one or more metabolic risk factors than in those without any risk factors. Furthermore, the correlation coefficients obtained using the two methods were enhanced by the addition of multiple regression analysis (with the triangle method,r=0.8586,p<0.001; with the ellipse method,r=0.8642,p<0.001).Conclusions.The VFA calculated by the triangle or ellipse method showed a high correlation coefficient with the VFA calculated by CT. These US methods are easy to use, they involve no radiation exposure, and the measurements can be conducted frequently. We hope that our simple methods would be widely adopted for the evaluation of VFA.
Migration-Related Stressors and Their Effect on the Severity Level and Symptom Pattern of Depression among Vietnamese in Germany
Authors: Wolf Simon , Hahn Eric , Dettling Michael , Nguyen Main Huong , Wingenfeld Katja , Stingl Markus , Hanewald Bernd , Ta Thi Minh Tam
Published: August 2017

Objectives. Vietnamese in Germany represent a scarcely researched and vulnerable group for mental health problems, especially under exposure to migration-related stressors (MRS). This study analyzes the effect of those MRS on the severity level and symptom pattern of depression. Design. We analyzed the data of 137 depressed Vietnamese patients utilizing Germany’s first Vietnamese psychiatric outpatient clinic. Hierarchical linear regression models were applied to investigate how the quantity of MRS influenced (1) the overall severity of self-reported depression symptoms; (2) the cognitive, affective, and somatic BDI-II subscale; and (3) the single BDI-II items of these subscales. Results. A greater number of MRS were related to a higher severity level of depression in general, as well as to a higher level on the cognitive depression subscale in particular. The BDI-II single items pessimism, past failure, guilt feelings, punishment feelings, and suicidal thoughts were particularly associated with a higher quantity of perceived MRS. Conclusion. Among depressed Vietnamese migrants in Germany, a higher number of reported MRS were associated with higher overall depression severity. Within the domains of depression, particularly the cognitive domain was linked to perceived MRS. The association between MRS and suicidal thoughts is clinically highly relevant.
Charges and Electromagnetic Radiation as Topological Excitations
Authors: Faber Manfried
Published: August 2017

We discuss a model with stable topological solitons in Minkowski space with only three degrees of freedom, the rotational angles of a spatial Dreibein. This model has four types of solitons differing in two topological quantum numbers which we identify with electric charge and spin. The vacuum has a two-dimensional degeneracy leading to two types of massless excitations, characterised by a topological quantum number which could have a physical equivalent in the photon number.
Brain Malformations Do Not Predict Hypopituitarism in Young Children with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia
Authors: Garcia-Filion Pamela , Almarzouki Hashem , Fink Cassandra , Geffner Mitchell , Nelson Marvin , Borchert Mark
Published: August 2017

Background: Optic nerve hypoplasia (ONH), a leading cause of pediatric blindness, is associated with brain malformations and hypopituitarism in the constellation known as septo-optic dysplasia. Neuroimaging is used to anticipate hypopituitarism, but with unconfirmed reliability. We report prospective findings on the association of hypopituitarism with brain malformations. Methods: Children (<24 months) with ONH (n = 146; 87% bilateral) underwent baseline MRI and annual examinations and hormonal testing. Hypopituitarism status at age 5 years was classified. Results: A total of 74% had brain malformation(s). Hypopituitarism (69%) was not associated with brain malformations (p = 0.351); this persisted after adjusting for the laterality of ONH and the timing of MRI (padj = 0.869). No association was noted for absent septum pellucidum (38%; p = 0.073), corpus callosum abnormality (51%; p = 0.625), and major malformations (22%; p = 0.407). A malformation conferred a positive predictive value of 71% (95% CI: 62%, 80%), and a negative predictive value of 37% (95% CI: 22%, 54%). Overall, 10% (n = 15) of the cohort presented with a triad of absent septum pellucidum, corpus callosum abnormality, and other major malformation; only half (n = 8) of these had hypopituitarism. All 13 subjects with pituitary malformations manifested hypopituitarism, conferring predictive values of 100% (positive) and 34% (negative). Conclusions: Hypopituitarism and brain malformations are highly prevalent, but have unrelated associations with ONH. Brain MRI in infants and toddlers with ONH is an unreliable screen for hypopituitarism risk.
MicroRNA-199a-5p Induced Autophagy and Inhibits the Pathogenesis of Ankylosing Spondylitis by Modulating the mTOR Signaling via Directly Targeting Ras Homolog Enriched in Brain (Rheb)
Authors: Wang Yahan , Luo Jianping , Wang Xiaogang , Yang Bin , Cui Liyang
Published: August 2017

Background/Aims: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an inflammatory and immune disease leading to disability. Autophagy has been identified as a potential player in understanding the pathogenesis of AS. Methods: MiRNA-199a-5p and autophagy-related gene expression were determined by qRT-PCR or Western blot. Cytokine production was determined using ELISA assays. Proliferation was determined by MTT assay. MiRNA-199a-5p and Ras homolog enriched in brain (Rheb) were upregulated or downregulated by overexpression of plasmid or siRNA transfection. Results: Expression of miRNA-199a-5p, and autophagy-related genes LC3, beclin1, and ATG5 was significantly decreased in T cells of AS patients. Serum concentrations of TNF-α, IL-17, and IL-23 were promoted in AS patients, compared to healthy controls. MiRNA-199a-5p expression levels also showed significant negative correlations with the Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) and modified Stoke Ankylosing Spon dylitis Spinal Score (mSASSS) of AS patients. In Jurkat T cells and T cells isolated from AS patients, miRNA-199a-5p overexpression promoted autophagy-related genes expression and decreased TNF-α, IL-17, and IL-23 levels, whereas inhibition of miRNA-199a-5p attenuated these effects. As a direct target of miRNA-199a-5p, Rheb inhibition led to a striking decrease in the phosphorylation of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) and induced autophagy. Moreover, pcDNA3.1-Rheb effectively reduced the inhibiting effects of mTOR signaling caused by miRNA-199a-5p overexpression. All effects were offset by pretreating with rapamycin (an mTOR antagonist). Conclusions: AS patients with advanced spinal damage had decreased autophagy levels and that miRNA-199a-5p may induce autophagy and inhibit the pathogenesis of AS by modulating the mTOR signaling via direct targeting Rheb.
Mir-22-3p Inhibits Arterial Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Migration and Neointimal Hyperplasia by Targeting HMGB1 in Arteriosclerosis Obliterans
Authors: Huang Shui-chuan , Wang Mian , Wu Wei-bin , Wang Rui , Cui Jin , Li Wen , Li Zi-lun , Li Wen , Wang Shen-ming
Published: August 2017

Background: Aberrant vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation and migration contribute to the development of vascular pathologies, such as atherosclerosis and post-angioplasty restenosis. The aim of this study was to determine whether miR-22-3p plays a role in regulating human artery vascular smooth muscle cell (HASMC) function and neointima formation. Methods: Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) were used to detect miR-22-3p expression in human arteries. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and EdU assays were performed to assess cell proliferation, and transwell and wound closure assays were performed to assess cell migration. Moreover, luciferase reporter assays were performed to identify the target genes of miR-22-3p. Finally, a rat carotid artery balloon-injury model was used to determine the role of miR-22-3p in neointima formation. Results: MiR-22-3p expression was downregulated in arteriosclerosis obliterans (ASO) arteries compared with normal arteries, as well as in platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB)-stimulated HASMCs compared with control cells. MiR-22-3p overexpression had anti-proliferative and anti-migratory effects and dual-luciferase assay showed that high mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) is a direct target of miR-22-3p in HASMCs. Furthermore, miR-22-3p expression was negatively correlated with HMGB1 expression in ASO tissue specimens. Finally, LV-miR-22-3p-mediated miR-22-3p upregulation significantly suppressed neointimal hyperplasia specifically by reducing HMGB1 expression in vivo. Conclusions: Our results indicate that miR-22-3p is a key molecule in regulating HASMC proliferation and migration by targeting HMGB1 and that miR-22-3p and HMGB1 may be therapeutic targets in the treatment of human ASO.
From Privacy to Data Protection in the eu: Implications for Big Data Health Research
Authors: Mostert Menno , Bredenoord Annelien L. , van der Slootb Bart , van Delden Johannes J.M.
Published: August 2017

The right to privacy has usually been considered as the most prominent fundamental right to protect in data-intensive (Big Data) health research. Within the European Union (eu), however, the right to data protection is gaining relevance as a separate fundamental right that should in particular be protected by data protection law. This paper discusses three differences between these two fundamental rights, which are relevant to data-intensive health research. Firstly, the rights based on the right to data protection are of a less context-sensitive nature and easier to enforce. Secondly, the positive obligation to protect personal data requires a more proactive approach by the eu and its Member States. Finally, it guarantees a more comprehensive system of personal data protection. In conclusion, we argue that a comprehensive system of data protection, including research-specific safeguards, is essential to compensate for the loss of individual control in data-intensive health research.
First record of the family Stephanidae (Hymenoptera: Stephanoidea) for the fauna of Saudi Arabia, with the description of a new species
Authors: SOLIMAN AHMED M. , GADALLAH NEVEEN S. , DHAFER HATHAL M. AL
Published: August 2017

The family Stephanidae (Hymenoptera: Stephanoidea) is recorded for the first time from Saudi Arabia. It is represented by two species belonging to the genus Foenatopus, F. bisignatus Aguiar & Jennings, 2010 and F. cf. turcomanorum (Semenov, 1891). A new species, Profoenatopus bimaculatus sp. nov. from Asir region is also described and illustrated.