bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipoic acid stimulates bone formation in ovariectomized rats in a dose-dependent manner
Authors: Radzki Radoslaw Piotr , Bienko Marek , Wolski Dariusz , Lis Alicja , Radzka Agnieszka
Published: April 2016

This study was undertaken to determine the osteotropic effect of different doses of lipoic acid (LA) on the mineralization of bone tissue in female Wistar rats with experimental osteopenia induced by bilateral ovariectomy. Fifty-six rats were randomly selected and submitted to either a sham operation (n = 8) or an ovariectomy (n = 48). The ovariectomized rats were randomly placed into two control groups, treated subcutaneously with either physiological saline or 17β-estradiol in the dose of 4 μg/kg body mass per day, and four experimental groups that received LA subcutaneously in the doses of 12.5, 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg body mass per day (n = 8 in each group). After 28 days of experimental treatment, the rats were sacrificed, and body mass, total skeletal density, and body composition were recorded. Blood serum and isolated femora were stored for further analysis. Our results revealed that the osteoprotective effect of LA was dose-dependent and was observed in rats treated with 50 and 100 mg/kg of LA. Moreover, the LA applied to the ovariectomized rats in the dose of 50 mg/kg not only stopped the bone resorption, but stimulated its formation.
Solute dynamics and the Ontario nitrogen index: II. Nitrate leaching
Authors: Drury C.F. , Reynolds W.D. , Parkin G.W. , Lauzon J.D. , Saso J.K. , Zhang T.Q. , Yang X.M. , Tan C.S. , Liu K. , Calder W. , Oloya T.O. , Welacky T.W. , Reid D.K.
Published: April 2016

Nitrogen (N) leaching from soil into surface and ground waters is a concern in humid areas of Canada. As a result, N management protocols, including the Ontario N Index, are widely used to identify N leaching risk, although field assessment remains limited. Nitrogen fertilizer and chloride (Cl) tracer were fall-applied to five agricultural soils in Ontario with different textures and hydrologic soil groups (HSG) to assess the Ontario N Index and characterize inorganic N movement over 1 yr. The treatments included three N rates (0, 100, and 200 kg N ha−1) plus Cl tracer and 200 kg N ha−1 rate without Cl. After spring thaw, N loss from the crop root zone (top 60 cm) ranged from 68% for Brookston clay loam to 99% for Harrow sandy loam. A strong linear relationship between apparent N recovery and apparent Cl recovery indicated that N loss from the root zone occurred primarily by downward leaching. Leaching was controlled by the minimum measured saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat), and good estimates of N leaching were obtained using a quasi-theoretical relationship between N loss and Ksat. We concluded that Ontario N Index estimates of N leaching risk might be improved by including site-specific measurements of Ksat.
The Method for Magnetic Hyperthermia Based on Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm with Levy Flight
Authors: Ma Ji-Ming , Guo Sheng-Nan , Su Ri-Jian , Yue Wei-Na
Published: April 2016

A new method to set up the static magnetic field of the targeted magnetic fluid hyperthermia is presented, and a new particle swarm optimization algorithm with Levy flight (LF-PSO) is proposed. Magnetic field generating system consists of 18 coils, deployed in the lesions of the peripheral symmetric space, the main principle is to heat magnetic nanoparticles by high frequency alternating magnetic field to kill the cancer cells, while building a static magnetic field in the periphery of the tumor region to protect healthy tissue from harm. Tumor location information may be shifted, so each treatment needs to reconfigure the static magnetic field. The set of magnetic heating coil currently adopted this new LF-PSO algorithm, in the reason of the particle swarm optimization algorithm with Levy flight mechanism is characterized by good robustness, high precision of optimal search and it is easy to jump out of local optimum. Experimental results show that by building a new objective function, and comparing with the FEM algorithm, the LF-PSO algorithm has advantages of fast solving speed and high accuracy.
KINETICS ANALYSIS OF HIGHER TEMPERATURE SALT BATH NITRIDING FOR AISI 1045 STEEL
Authors: DAI MINGYANG , CHEN YAO , CHAI YATING , HU JING
Published: April 2016

Rapid salt bath nitriding was conducted at higher temperature above 600[Formula: see text]C instead of normally used 560[Formula: see text]C for AISI 1045 steel. Optical microscopy (OM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and micro-hardness tester were employed to characterize the microstructure, phase constituents and micro-hardness of the treated specimens. The results showed that salt bath nitriding at higher temperature could significantly increase the compound layer thickness and higher cross-sectional hardness can be obtained. Kinetics analysis illustrated that the nitrogen atoms diffusion coefficient was obviously increased with temperature, and the activation energy of nitrogen atom diffusion was decreased from 220[Formula: see text]kJ[Formula: see text]mol[Formula: see text] to 142[Formula: see text]kJ[Formula: see text]mol[Formula: see text].
Impact of Accounting Traditions, Ownership and Governance Structures on Financial Reporting by Italian Firms
Authors: Jaggi Bikki , Allini Alessandra , Rossi Francesca Manes , Caldarelli Adele
Published: April 2016

Institutional differences across countries present special challenges to achieve uniformity or at least harmony in financial reporting across countries. We evaluate in this paper how accounting traditions, ownership and governance structures of Italian companies affect implementation of the European Union mandated International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) by Italian companies. This evaluation will enable investors, especially international investors, to have a better understanding of financial reporting by Italian companies and it will also highlight the problems and issues facing Italian companies to implement IFRS.
Dynamic Financial Decisions with Varying Degrees of Information Asymmetry and Profitability
Authors: Lee Chen Hsun , Ying Yung-Hsiang , Chang Koyin
Published: April 2016

Much research has been conducted on the accuracy of the pecking order theory and the trade-off theory. Neither theory on its own has seemed to hold sufficient explanatory power to accurately describe capital structures. Chou et al. [Sun Yat-Sen Management Review, 19, 225–227 (2011)] proposed the signal factor hypothesis (SFH) which encompasses and integrates the two theories. Using hierarchical linear modeling (HLM), we verified the predictions of the SFH, proving that companies from Taiwan and China with low information symmetry have higher debt ratios than those with high information symmetry, and that profitability has a negative influence on capital structure regardless of the degree of the information asymmetry.
Does Corporate Governance Curb Managers’ Opportunistic Behavior of Exploiting Inside Information for Early Exercise of Executive Stock Options?
Authors: Chien Chin-Chen , Lee Cheng-Few , Chiu She Chih
Published: April 2016

This paper aims to investigate the role of corporate dividend policy and corporate governance in managerial timing decisions with regard to large exercise of executive stock options (ESOs). The findings indicate that the motivations behind managers’ decisions to exercise abnormally large ESOs vary depending on the strength of the related corporate governance mechanisms. Managers of weakly governed companies exploit abnormal earnings management when timing large exercises of ESOs. In contrast, managers of well-governed companies behave rationally in timing large exercises of ESOs, carrying them out in years in which their companies significantly raise dividend payouts.
Recap of the 23rd Annual Conference on Pacific Basin Finance, Economics, Accounting, and Management
Authors: Lee Cheng-Few , Thi Cao Hao
Published: April 2016

The 23rd Annual Conference on Pacific Basin Finance, Economics, Accounting, and Management was held in Saigon Technology University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on July 16th and July 17th, 2015. The first conference was held at Rutgers University in 1993. Since then, the conference has been held in Hong Kong (1994, 1998), Taipei (1995, 1999, 2003, 2006, 2011), Bangkok (2000, 2004, 2009), Rutgers (1996, 2001, 2005, 2012), Singapore (1997, 2002), Vietnam (2007), Australia (2008, 2013), China (2010), and Japan (2014). The program co-directors of the conference were Cheng-Few Lee, Rutgers University, USA, and Cao Hao Thi, Saigon Technology University, Vietnam.
Structural Response of Blast Wall to Gas Explosion on Semi-Confined Offshore Plant Topside
Authors: Kang Ki-Yeob , Heo YeongAe , Rogstadkjernet Lars , Choi Kwang-Ho , Lee Jae-Myung
Published: April 2016

Since gas explosion is the most frequent accidental event occurring in the oil and gas industry, all safety-related critical elements on the topside of offshore platforms should retain their integrity against extreme pressure demands. Although considerable effort has been devoted to develop blast-resistant design methods for offshore structures, there remain several issues that require further investigation. The duration of the triangular-shaped blast design pressure curve with a completely positive side is usually determined by the absolute area of each measured transient pressure response, using the flame acceleration simulator (FLACS). The negative phase pressure in a general gas explosion, however, is often quite crucial, unlike gaseous detonation or TNT explosion. The objective of this study is to thoroughly examine the effect of the negative phase pressure on structural behavior. A blast wall for a specific floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) topside is considered as an exemplar structure for blast-resistant design to focus only on overpressure because there is no drag pressure in this type of obstacle. Gas dispersion and explosion simulations were carried out using FLACS, while LS-DYNA was used in the nonlinear transient finite element structural analysis.
Super-resolution imaging in glycoscience: New developments and challenges
Authors: Chen Junling , Tong Ti , Wang Hongda
Published: April 2016

Carbohydrates on cell surfaces play a crucial role in a wide variety of biological processes, including cell adhesion, recognition and signaling, viral and bacterial infection, inflammation and metastasis. However, owing to the large diversity and complexity of carbohydrate structure and nongenetically synthesis, glycoscience is the least understood field compared with genomics and proteomics. Although the structures and functions of carbohydrates have been investigated by various conventional analysis methods, the distribution and role of carbohydrates in cell membranes remain elusive. This review focuses on the developments and challenges of super-resolution imaging in glycoscience through introduction of imaging principle and the available fluorescent probes for super-resolution imaging, the labeling strategies of carbohydrates, and the recent applications of super-resolution imaging in glycoscience, which will promote the super-resolution imaging technology as a promising tool to provide new insights into the study of glycoscience.
𝒞-Consistency in signed total graphs of commutative rings
Authors: Pranjali  , Gaur Atul , Acharya Mukti
Published: April 2016

Motivated by the earlier study on the notion of signed total graph of a commutative ring, in this paper, we characterize all the commutative rings with unity for which signed total graph is [Formula: see text]-consistent and sign-compatible. To do this, first, we derive a formula to determine the degree of each vertex in [Formula: see text] (induced subgraph of the total graph), when [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], where each [Formula: see text]’s is a field of characteristic [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is an odd prime, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Mechanisms of microcontinent release associated with wrenching-involved continental break-up; a review
Authors: Nemčok M. , Sinha S. T. , Doré A. G. , Lundin E. R. , Mascle J. , Rybár S.
Published: April 2016

The study focuses on the role of wrenching-involved continental break-up in microcontinent release, drawing from a review of examples. It indicates that the main groups of release mechanisms in this setting are associated with ‘competing wrench faults’, ‘competing horsetail structure elements’, ‘competing rift zones’ and ‘multiple consecutive tectonic events’ controlled by different stress regimes capable of release. Competing-wrench-fault-related blocks are small, up to a maximum 220 km in length. They are more-or-less parallel to oceanic transforms. The competing horsetail-structure-element-related blocks are larger (up to 610 km in length) and are located at an acute angle to the transform. Competing-rift-zone-related blocks are large (up to 815 km) and are either parallel or perpendicular to the transform. The multiple-consecutive-tectonic-event-related blocks have variable size and are generally very elongate, ranging up to 1100 km in length. The role of strike-slip faults in release of continental blocks resides in:

linking the extensional zones, where the blocks are already isolated, by their propagation through the remaining continental bridges and subsequent displacement;

facilitating rapid crustal thinning across a narrow zone of strike-slip-dominated faults; and

slicing the margin into potentially detachable fault blocks.
Intellectual Property, Piracy, and Counterfeiting
Authors: Dent Alexander S.
Published: April 2016

This review argues that the elastic space between intellectual property (IP) and unauthorized use (including piracy and counterfeiting) is an increasingly important feature of contemporary textual production and circulation. Within the context of digital textuality, circulatory legitimacy becomes integral to both contextualization and entextualization. The dynamic relationship between IP and piracy/counterfeiting appears as a means of organizing sense-perception and subjectivity, parsing geopolitical space, handling the surfeits and deficits that emerge in contemporary text circulation, distinguishing formality from informality, and deciding levels and forms of acceptable participation in the production and consumption of commodities. This becomes particularly fraught in the face of anxieties about the potential limitlessness of circulation.
Progress in the Development of Oxygen Reduction Reaction Catalysts for Low-Temperature Fuel Cells
Authors: Li Dongguo , Lv Haifeng , Kang Yijin , Markovic Nenad M. , Stamenkovic Vojislav R.
Published: April 2016

We present a brief summary on the most recent progress in the design of catalysts for electrochemical reduction of oxygen. The main challenge in the wide spread of fuel cell technology is to lower the content of, or even eliminate, Pt and other precious metals in catalysts without sacrificing their performance. Pt-based nanosized catalysts with novel and refined architectures continue to dominate in catalytic performance, and formation of Pt-skin-like surfaces is key to achieving the highest values in activity. Moreover, durability has also been improved in Pt-based systems with addition of Au, which plays an important role in stabilizing the Pt topmost layers against dissolution. However, various carbon-based materials without precious metal have shown improvement in activity and durability and have been explored to serve as catalyst supports. Understanding how the doped elements interact with each other and/or carbon is challenging and necessary in the design of robust fuel cell catalysts.
Computer Simulations of Ion Transport in Polymer Electrolyte Membranes
Authors: Mogurampelly Santosh , Borodin Oleg , Ganesan Venkat
Published: April 2016

Understanding the mechanisms and optimizing ion transport in polymer membranes have been the subject of active research for more than three decades. We present an overview of the progress and challenges involved with the modeling and simulation aspects of the ion transport properties of polymer membranes. We are concerned mainly with atomistic and coarser level simulation studies and discuss some salient work in the context of pure binary and single ion conducting polymer electrolytes, polymer nanocomposites, block copolymers, and ionic liquid–based hybrid electrolytes. We conclude with an outlook highlighting future directions.
Germline Stem Cell Competition, Mutation Hot Spots, Genetic Disorders, and Older Fathers
Authors: Arnheim Norman , Calabrese Peter
Published: April 2016

Some de novo human mutations arise at frequencies far exceeding the genome average mutation rate. Examples include the common mutations at one or a few sites in the genes that cause achondroplasia, Apert syndrome, multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2B, and Noonan syndrome. These mutations are recurrent, provide a gain of function, are paternally derived, and are more likely to be transmitted as the father ages. Recent experiments have tested whether the high mutation frequencies are due to an elevated mutation rate per cell division, as expected, or to an advantage of the mutant spermatogonial stem cells over wild-type stem cells. The evidence, which includes the surprising discovery of testis mutation clusters, rules out the former model but not the latter. We propose how the mutations might alter spermatogonial stem cell function and discuss how germline selection contributes to the paternal age effect, the human mutational load, and adaptive evolution.
Physics of Ultrathin Films and Heterostructures of Rare-Earth Nickelates
Authors: Middey S. , Chakhalian J. , Mahadevan P. , Freeland J.W. , Millis A.J. , Sarma D.D.
Published: April 2016

The electronic structure of transition metal oxides featuring correlated electrons can be rationalized within the Zaanen-Sawatzky-Allen framework. Following a brief description of the present paradigms of electronic behavior, we focus on the physics of rare-earth nickelates as an archetype of complexity emerging within the charge transfer regime. The intriguing prospect of realizing the physics of high-Tc cuprates through heterostructuring resulted in a massive endeavor to epitaxially stabilize these materials in ultrathin form. A plethora of new phenomena unfolded in such artificial structures due to the effect of epitaxial strain, quantum confinement, and interfacial charge transfer. Here we review the present status of artificial rare-earth nickelates in an effort to uncover the interconnection between the electronic and magnetic behavior and the underlying crystal structure. We conclude by discussing future directions to disentangle the puzzle regarding the origin of the metal-insulator transition, the role of oxygen holes, and the true nature of the antiferromagnetic spin configuration in the ultrathin limit.
Neuronal Mechanisms of Visual Categorization: An Abstract View on Decision Making
Authors: Freedman David J. , Assad John A.
Published: April 2016

Categorization is our ability to flexibly assign sensory stimuli into discrete, behaviorally relevant groupings. Categorical decisions can be used to study decision making more generally by dissociating category identity of stimuli from the actions subjects use to signal their decisions. Here we discuss the evidence for such abstract categorical encoding in the primate brain and consider the relationship with other perceptual decision paradigms. Recent work on visual categorization has examined neuronal activity across a hierarchically organized network of cortical areas in monkeys trained to group visual stimuli into arbitrary categories. This has revealed a transformation of visual-feature encoding in early visual cortical areas into more flexible categorical representations in downstream parietal and prefrontal areas. These neuronal category representations are encoded as abstract internal cognitive states because they are not rigidly linked with either specific sensory stimuli or the actions that the monkeys use to signal their categorical choices.
Progress in the utilization of high-fidelity simulation in basic science education
Authors: Helyer Richard , Dickens Peter
Published: April 2016

High-fidelity patient simulators are mainly used to teach clinical skills and remain underutilized in teaching basic sciences. This article summarizes our current views on the use of simulation in basic science education and identifies pitfalls and opportunities for progress.
The Impact of Pixel Resolution, Integration Scale, Preprocessing, and Feature Normalization on Texture Analysis for Mass Classification in Mammograms
Authors: Abdel-Nasser Mohamed , Melendez Jaime , Moreno Antonio , Puig Domenec
Published: April 2016

Texture analysis methods are widely used to characterize breast masses in mammograms. Texture gives information about the spatial arrangement of the intensities in the region of interest. This information has been used in mammogram analysis applications such as mass detection, mass classification, and breast density estimation. In this paper, we study the effect of factors such as pixel resolution, integration scale, preprocessing, and feature normalization on the performance of those texture methods for mass classification. The classification performance was assessed considering linear and nonlinear support vector machine classifiers. To find the best combination among the studied factors, we used three approaches: greedy, sequential forward selection (SFS), and exhaustive search. On the basis of our study, we conclude that the factors studied affect the performance of texture methods, so the best combination of these factors should be determined to achieve the best performance with each texture method. SFS can be an appropriate way to approach the factor combination problem because it is less computationally intensive than the other methods.
Essential Oil Yield Pattern and Antibacterial and Insecticidal Activities ofTrachyspermum ammiandMyristica fragrans
Authors: Soni Rajgovind , Sharma Gaurav , Jasuja Nakuleshwar Dut
Published: April 2016

Two Indian spices,Trachyspermum ammiandMyristica fragrans,were studied for their essential oil (EO) yielding pattern, insecticidal activity, antibacterial activity, and composition. The essential oils (EOs) ofT. ammi(1.94±30 mL/100 gm) andM. fragrans(5.93±90 mL/100 gm) were extracted using hydrodistillation method. In Gas Chromatography analysis, the beta-pinene, alpha-pinene, alpha-p-menth-1-en-4-ol, Limonene, and elemicin were found as major constituents ofT. ammiessential oil whereasM. fragransessential oil mostly contains Gamma-Terpinolene, p-Cymene, Thymol, and beta-pinene. The insecticidal activities of EO were demonstrated using LC50values againstPlodia interpunctellaand EO ofT. ammiwas found comparatively more effective than EO ofM. fragrans.Further, individual EO and combination of essential oil were examined for antibacterial activity against three Gram (−) bacterial strains (E. coli-MTCC 443,P. vulgaris-MTCC 1771, andK. pneumoniae-MTCC number 7028) and three Gram (+) bacterial strains (S. aureus-MTCC 3381,B. subtilis-MTCC 10619, andB. megaterium-MTCC 2412) by well agar diffusion method. The essential oil in combination (CEO) exhibited higher antibacterial activity as compared with individual essential oils.
A Microstructure Based Strength Model for Slag Blended Concrete with Various Curing Temperatures
Authors: Zhang Li-Na , Xiao-Yong Wang , Koh Kyung-Taek
Published: April 2016

Ground granulated blast furnace slag, which is a byproduct obtained during steel manufacture, has been widely used for concrete structures in order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and improve durability. This paper presents a numerical model to evaluate compressive strength development of slag blended concrete at isothermal curing temperatures and time varying curing temperatures. First, the numerical model starts with a cement-slag blended hydration model which simulates both cement hydration and slag reaction. The accelerations of cement hydration and slag reaction at elevated temperatures are modeled by Arrhenius law. Second, the gel-space ratios of hardening concrete are calculated using reaction degrees of cement and slag. Using a modified Powers’ gel-space ratio strength theory, the strength of slag blended concrete is evaluated considering both strengthening factors and weakening factors involved in strength development process. The proposed model is verified using experimental results of strength development of slag blended concrete with different slag contents and different curing temperatures.
Does Acellular Dermal Matrix Thickness Affect Complication Rate in Tissue Expander Based Breast Reconstruction?
Authors: Rose Jessica F. , Zafar Sarosh N. , Ellsworth IV Warren A.
Published: April 2016

Background. While the benefits of using acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) in breast reconstruction are well described, their use has been associated with additional complications. The purpose of this study was to determine if ADM thickness affects complications in breast reconstruction. Methods. A retrospective chart review was performed including all tissue expander based breast reconstructions with AlloDerm (LifeCell, Branchburg, NJ) over 4 years. We evaluated preoperative characteristics and assessed postoperative complications including seroma, hematoma, infection, skin necrosis, and need for reintervention. We reviewed ADM thickness and time to Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain removal. Results. Fifty-five patients underwent 77 ADM-associated tissue expander based breast reconstructions, with average age of 48.1 years and average BMI of 25.9. Average ADM thickness was 1.21 mm. We found higher complication rates in the thick ADM group. Significant associations were found between smokers and skin necrosis (p<0.0001) and seroma and prolonged JP drainage (p=0.0004); radiated reconstructed breasts were more likely to suffer infections (p=0.0085), and elevated BMI is a significant predictor for increased infection rate (p=0.0037). Conclusion. We found a trend toward increased complication rates with thicker ADMs. In the future, larger prospective studies evaluating thickness may provide more information.
Skeletal and Dentoalveolar Cephalometric Features of Anterior Open Bite among Yemeni Adults
Authors: Daer Ammar Abdulkareem , Abuaffan Amal Hussein
Published: April 2016

Objective.The aim of this study is to determine the cephalometric features for a sample of Yemeni adults with anterior open bite.Material and Methods. Lateral cephalometric radiographs were taken for 65 Yemeni university students (46 males and 19 females), 18–25 years old, with clinical anterior open bite (vertical overbite ≤ 0 mm) and no previous orthodontic treatment. The radiographs were manually traced; twelve angular, five linear measurements, and facial index were assessed, analyzed statistically, and compared to 194 Yemeni norms (89 males and 105 females) as well as cephalometric features of open bite subjects in previous studies.Results.Statistically significant differences were observed in skeletal and dental cephalometric values of Yemeni patients with anterior open bite when compared to Yemeni norms; mainly in the anteroposterior relation, the open bite individuals had higher significant value in SNA, SNB, and SNPg angles. In addition, a higher statistical significant difference was recorded in all variables of vertical relation when compared with norms. In contrast, NL-NSL angle revealed higher value among normal individuals. Dental variables among open bite individuals showed a greater degree of dental proclination, higher statistically significant value inI_-NA°,I_-NA mm and I-NB mm, and a lower significant value in U1-L1 in open bite group.Conclusion.Open bite Yemeni individual’s skeletal and dentoalveolar variables significantly differ from Yemeni norms in the extent of the anteroposterior, vertical developmental pattern and dental relations.
Two-Dimensional Cutting (TDC) Vitrectome: In Vitro Flow Assessment and Prospective Clinical Study Evaluating Core Vitrectomy Efficiency versus Standard Vitrectome
Authors: Pavlidis Mitrofanis
Published: April 2016

Purpose. To evaluate comparative aspiration flow performance and also vitrectomy operating time efficiency using a double-cutting open port vitreous cutting system incorporated in a two-dimensional cutting (TDC, DORC International) vitrectome design versus standard vitreous cutter.Methods. In vitro investigations compared aspiration flow rates in artificial vitreous humor at varying cutter speeds and vacuum levels using a TDC vitrectome and a standard vitrectome across different aspiration pump systems. A prospective single-centre clinical study evaluated duration of core vitrectomy in 80 patients with macular pucker undergoing 25-gauge or 27-gauge vitrectomy using either a TDC vitrectome at 16,000 cuts per minute (cpm) or standard single-cut vitrectome, combined with a Valve Timing intelligence (VTi) pump system (EVA, DORC International).Results. Aspiration flow rates remained constant independent of TDC vitrectome cut rate, while flow rates decreased linearly at higher cutter speeds using a classic single-blade vitrectome. Mean duration of core vitrectomy surgeries using a TDC vitreous cutter system was significantly (p<0.001) shorter than the mean duration of core vitrectomy procedures using a single-cut vitrectome of the same diameter (reduction range, 34%–50%).Conclusion. Vitrectomy surgery performed using a TDC vitrectome was faster than core vitrectomy utilizing a standard single-action vitrectome at similar cut speeds.
Ghrelin Protects against Dexamethasone-Induced INS-1 Cell Apoptosis via ERK and p38MAPK Signaling
Authors: Zhang Chengshuo , Li Le , Zhao Bochao , Jiao Ao , Li Xin , Sun Ning , Zhang Jialin
Published: April 2016

Glucocorticoid excess induces apoptosis of islet cells, which may result in diabetes. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of ghrelin on dexamethasone-induced INS-1 cell apoptosis. Our data showed that ghrelin (0.1 μM) inhibited dexamethasone-induced (0.1 μM) apoptosis of INS-1 cells and facilitated cell proliferation. Moreover, ghrelin upregulated Bcl-2 expression, downregulated Bax expression, and decreased caspase-3 activity. The protective effect of ghrelin against dexamethasone-induced INS-1 cell apoptosis was mediated via growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a. Further studies revealed that ghrelin increased ERK activation and decreased p38MAPK expression after dexamethasone treatment. Ghrelin-mediated protection of dexamethasone-induced apoptosis of INS-1 cells was attenuated using the ERK inhibitor U0126 (10 μM), and cell viability increased using the p38MAPK inhibitor SB203580 (10 μM). In conclusion, ghrelin could protect against dexamethasone-induced INS-1 cell apoptosis, at least partially via GHS-R1a and the signaling pathway of ERK and p38MAPK.
Low Energy Consumption Synthesis of Nanostructured TiO2Particles by Combining Oxidant Peroxide Method and Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Treatment
Authors: Garcia A. P. , Rocha I. C. L. , dos Santos P. H. F. , Basegio T. M. , Pereira M. B. , Clemens F. J. , Alves A. K. , Bergmann C. P.
Published: April 2016

Titanium dioxide with high specific surface area in the crystalline anatase phase is a promising material for environmental applications. In this work, TiO2with good applicability for photocatalytic processes has been obtained using the low energy consumption synthesis based on oxidant peroxide method combined with microwave-assisted low temperature hydrothermal treatment. To prepare the material, titanium propoxide, hydrogen peroxide, and isopropyl alcohol were used. The influence of time and temperature during the hydrothermal step on properties like morphology, crystallinity, phase composition, specific surface area, and photocatalytic behavior were investigated. Photoactivity was measured using the methyl orange decomposition method in UV-A light. Increasing temperature during hydrothermal step, photocatalytic properties could be improved. The nanostructured TiO2particles synthesized at 200°C and 30 min with this method showed photocatalytic activity comparable to commercial Aeroxide® TiO2P25.
Feature Selection Has a Large Impact on One-Class Classification Accuracy for MicroRNAs in Plants
Authors: Yousef Malik , Saçar Demirci Müşerref Duygu , Khalifa Waleed , Allmer Jens
Published: April 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short RNA sequences involved in posttranscriptional gene regulation. Their experimental analysis is complicated and, therefore, needs to be supplemented with computational miRNA detection. Currently computational miRNA detection is mainly performed using machine learning and in particular two-class classification. For machine learning, the miRNAs need to be parametrized and more than 700 features have been described. Positive training examples for machine learning are readily available, but negative data is hard to come by. Therefore, it seems prerogative to use one-class classification instead of two-class classification. Previously, we were able to almost reach two-class classification accuracy using one-class classifiers. In this work, we employ feature selection procedures in conjunction with one-class classification and show that there is up to 36% difference in accuracy among these feature selection methods. The best feature set allowed the training of a one-class classifier which achieved an average accuracy of ~95.6% thereby outperforming previous two-class-based plant miRNA detection approaches by about 0.5%. We believe that this can be improved upon in the future by rigorous filtering of the positive training examples and by improving current feature clustering algorithms to better target pre-miRNA feature selection.
Antioxidant and Anti‐Inflammatory Effects of Coenzyme Q10 on L‐Arginine‐Induced Acute Pancreatitis in Rat
Authors: Mirmalek Seyed Abbas , Gholamrezaei Boushehrinejad Ala , Yavari Hassan , Kardeh Bahareh , Parsa Yekta , Salimi-Tabatabaee Seyed Alireza , Yadollah-Damavandi Soheila , Parsa Tina , Shahverdi Ehsan , Jangholi Ehsan
Published: April 2016

This study was aimed at evaluating the protective effect of coenzyme Q10 on L‐arginine‐induced acute pancreatitis in rats regarding biomarkers and morphologic changes. Thirty‐two male Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided into 4 equal groups. Control group received intraperitoneal normal saline, while in sham and experimental groups 1 and 2 pancreatitis was induced with L‐arginine. E1 and E2 groups were treated with a single dose of 100 and 200 mg/kg Q10, respectively. Serum lipase and amylase, along with pancreas IL‐10, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α, were measured. For evaluation of oxidative stress, pancreatic superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were assessed. Histopathological examination for morphologic investigation was conducted. Serum amylase and lipase, as well as TNF‐α and IL‐1β cytokines, reverted with administration of Q10 in consistence with dosage. In contrast, Q10 assisted in boosting of IL‐10 with higher dosage (200 mg/kg). A similar pattern for oxidative stress markers was noticed. Both MDA and MPO levels declined with increased dosage, contrary to elevation of SOD and GSH. Histopathology was in favor of protective effects of Q10. Our findings proved the amelioration of pancreatic injury by Q10, which suggest the anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant property of Q10 and its potential therapeutic role.
Posttransurethral Resection of Prostate Recurrent Life Threatening Hematuria: A Rare Cause
Authors: Arya MC , Kumar Lalit , Mittal Ruchi , Kumar Rajeev , Baid Mayank
Published: April 2016

Herein, we present a case report of post-TURP (transurethral resection of prostate) recurrent severe hematuria due to right internal iliac artery pseudoaneurysm protruding into bladder lumen. A 60-year-old male presented with recurrent massive hematuria following TURP done elsewhere 15 days before. His hemoglobin was 4 gm/dL after 13 units of blood transfusion and repeated clot evacuations. His blood urea, serum creatinine, and coagulation profile studies were normal. Ultrasonography of abdomen showed multiple clots in the bladder. Cystoscopy revealed clots with a right posterolateral wall unhealthy area. After stabilizing the patient, contrast enhanced CT urography revealed intravesical aneurysm. CT angiography showed pseudoaneurysm of a branch of internal iliac artery protruding into urinary bladder lumen. We referred patient to selective embolization of the lesion but the procedure was unsuccessful. At last, ipsilateral internal iliac artery ligation relieved hematuria. But on postoperative day 2, patient suddenly collapsed and deceased, presumably due to cardiomorbidities.
A Multiple-Classifier Framework for Parkinson’s Disease Detection Based on Various Vocal Tests
Authors: Behroozi Mahnaz , Sami Ashkan
Published: April 2016

Recently, speech pattern analysis applications in building predictive telediagnosis and telemonitoring models for diagnosing Parkinson’s disease (PD) have attracted many researchers. For this purpose, several datasets of voice samples exist; the UCI dataset named “Parkinson Speech Dataset with Multiple Types of Sound Recordings” has a variety of vocal tests, which include sustained vowels, words, numbers, and short sentences compiled from a set of speaking exercises for healthy and people with Parkinson’s disease (PWP). Some researchers claim that summarizing the multiple recordings of each subject with the central tendency and dispersion metrics is an efficient strategy in building a predictive model for PD. However, they have overlooked the point that a PD patient may show more difficulty in pronouncing certain terms than the other terms. Thus, summarizing the vocal tests may lead into loss of valuable information. In order to address this issue, the classification setting must takewhathas been said into account. As a solution, we introduced a new framework that applies an independent classifier for each vocal test. The final classification result would be a majority vote from all of the classifiers. When our methodology comes with filter-based feature selection, it enhances classification accuracy up to15%.
Characterization of the Physiological Response following In Vivo Administration of Astragalus membranaceus
Authors: Denzler Karen , Moore Jessica , Harrington Heather , Morrill Kira , Huynh Trung , Jacobs Bertram , Waters Robert , Langland Jeffrey
Published: April 2016

The botanical, Astragalus membranaceus, is a therapeutic in traditional Chinese medicine. Limited literature exists on the overall in vivo effects of A. membranaceus on the human body. This study evaluates the physiological responses to A. membranaceus by measuring leukocyte, platelet, and cytokine responses as well as body temperature and blood pressure in healthy individuals after the in vivo administration of A. membranaceus. A dose‐dependent increase in monocytes, neutrophils, and lymphocytes was measured 8–12 hours after administration and an increase in the number of circulating platelets was seen as early as 4 hours. A dynamic change in the levels of circulating cytokines was observed, especially in interferon‐γ and tumor necrosis factor‐α, IL‐13, IL‐6, and soluble IL‐2R. Subjective symptoms reported by participants were similar to those typically experienced in viral type immune responses and included fatigue, malaise, and headache. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure were reduced within 4 hours after administration, while body temperature mildly increased within 8 hours after administration. In general, all responses returned to baseline values by 24 hours. Collectively, these results support the role of A. membranaceus in priming for a potential immune response as well as its effect on blood flow and wound healing.
Maternal and Fetal Lipid and Adipokine Profiles and Their Association with Obesity
Authors: Solis-Paredes Mario , Espino y Sosa Salvador , Estrada-Gutierrez Guadalupe , Nava-Salazar Sonia , Ortega-Castillo Veronica , Rodriguez-Bosch Mario , Bravo-Flores Eyerahi , Espejel-Nuñez Aurora , Tolentino-Dolores Maricruz , Gaona-Estudillo Rubí , Martinez-Bautista Nancy , Perichart-Perera Otilia
Published: April 2016

Background. Maternal metabolic changes impact fetal metabolism resulting in a higher risk for developing chronic diseases later in life. The aim of this study was to assess the association between maternal and fetal adipokine and lipid profiles, as well as the influence of maternal weight on this association.Methods. Healthy pregnant women at term who delivered by C-section were enrolled. Maternal and fetal glucose, lipid profile, adiponectin, leptin, and resistin levels were analyzed by obesity and maternal weight gain. Statistics included descriptives, correlations, and mean differences (SPSS v20.0).Results. Adiponectin and resistin concentrations were higher in fetal blood, while leptin was lower (p<0.05). A significant inverse association between maternal resistin and fetal LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) (r=-0.327;p=0.022) was observed. A positive correlation was found between maternal and fetal resistin (r=0.358;p=0.013). Women with excessive weight gain had higher leptin levels and their fetuses showed higher LDL-C levels (p<0.05).Conclusions. Maternal resistin showed an inverse association with fetal LDL-C, suggesting that maternal adiposity status may play an active role in the regulation of fetal lipid profile and consequently, in fetal programming. Excessive maternal weight gain during pregnancy may exert an effect over metabolic mediators in both mother and newborn.
Cuspal Displacement Induced by Bulk Fill Resin Composite Polymerization: Biomechanical Evaluation Using Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors
Authors: Vinagre Alexandra , Ramos João , Alves Sofia , Messias Ana , Alberto Nélia , Nogueira Rogério
Published: April 2016

Polymerization shrinkage is a major concern to the clinical success of direct composite resin restorations. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of polymerization shrinkage strain of two resin composites on cuspal movement based on the use of fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors. Twenty standardized Class II cavities prepared in upper third molars were allocated into two groups (n=10). Restorations involved the bulk fill placement of conventional microhybrid resin composite (Esthet•X® HD, Dentsply DeTrey) (Group 1) or flowable “low-shrinkage” resin composite (SDR™, Dentsply DeTrey) (Group 2). Two FBG sensors were used per restoration for real-time measurement of cuspal linear deformation and temperature variation. Group comparisons were determined using ANCOVA(α=0.05)considering temperature as the covariate. A statistically significant correlation between cuspal deflection, time, and material was observed (p<0.01). Cuspal deflection reached 8.8 μm (0.23%) and 7.8 μm (0.20%) in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. When used with bulk fill technique, flowable resin composite SDR™induced significantly less cuspal deflection than the conventional resin composite Esthet•X® HD (p=0.015) and presented a smoother curve slope during the polymerization. FBG sensors appear to be a valid tool for accurate real-time monitoring of cuspal deformation.
The Antitumor Effect of Gekko Sulfated Glycopeptide by Inhibiting bFGF-Induced Lymphangiogenesis
Authors: Ding Xiu-Li , Man Ya-Nan , Hao Jian , Zhu Cui-Hong , Liu Chang , Yang Xue , Wu Xiong-Zhi
Published: April 2016

Objective. To study the antilymphangiogenesis effect of Gekko Sulfated Glycopeptide (GSPP) on human lymphatic endothelial cells (hLECs).Methods. MTS was conducted to confirm the antiproliferation effect of GSPP on hLECs; flow cytometry was employed to detect hLECs cycle distribution; the antimigration effect of GSPP on hLECs was investigated by wound healing experiment and transwell experiment; tube formation assay was used to examine its inhibitory effect on the lymphangiogenesis; western blotting was conducted to detect the expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2 (Erk1/2) and p-Erk1/2 after GSPP and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) treatment. Nude mice models were established to investigate the antitumor effect of GSPP in vivo. Decreased lymphangiogenesis caused by GSPP in vivo was verified by immunohistochemical staining.Results. In vitro, GSPP (10 μg/mL, 100 μg/mL) significantly inhibited bFGF-induced hLECs proliferation, migration, and tube-like structure formation (P<0.05) and antagonized the phosphorylation activation of Erk1/2 induced by bFGF. In vivo, GSPP treatment (200 mg/kg/d) not only inhibited the growth of colon carcinoma, but also inhibited the tumor lymphangiogenesis.Conclusion. GSPP possesses the antitumor ability by inhibiting bFGF-inducing lymphangiogenesis in vitro and in vivo, which may further inhibit tumor lymphatic metastasis.
Repeatability and Reproducibility of Noninvasive Keratograph 5M Measurements in Patients with Dry Eye Disease
Authors: Tian Lei , Qu Jing-hao , zhang Xiao-yu , Sun Xu-guang
Published: April 2016

Purpose. To determine the intraexaminer repeatability and interexaminer reproducibility of tear meniscus height (TMH) and noninvasive Keratograph tear breakup time (NIKBUT) measurements obtained with the Keratograph 5M (K5M) in a sample of healthy and dry eye populations.Methods. Forty-two patients with dry eye disease (DED group) and 42 healthy subjects (healthy group) were recruited in this prospective study. In all subjects, each eye received 3 consecutive measurements using the K5M for the TMH and NIKBUTs (NIKBUT-first and NIKBUT-average). And then a different examiner repeated the measurements. The repeatability and reproducibility of measurements were assessed by the coefficient of variation (CV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).Results. The repeatability and reproducibility of TMH and NIKBUTs were good in both DED and healthy groups (CV% ≤ 26.1% and ICC ≥ 0.75 for all measurements). Patients with DED showed better intraexaminer repeatability for NIKBUTs, but worse for TMH than healthy subjects. Average TMH, NIKBUT-first, and NIKBUT-average were significantly lower in DED group than in healthy group (allPvalues < 0.05).Conclusions. Measurements of TMH and NIKBUTs obtained with the K5M may provide a simple, noninvasive screening test for dry eye with acceptable repeatability and reproducibility. The NIKBUTs were more reliable, but TMH was less reliable in patients with DED.
Role of Striatal-Enriched Tyrosine Phosphatase in Neuronal Function
Authors: Kamceva Marija , Benedict Jessie , Nairn Angus C. , Lombroso Paul J.
Published: April 2016

Striatal-enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase (STEP) is a CNS-enriched protein implicated in multiple neurologic and neuropsychiatric disorders. STEP regulates key signaling proteins required for synaptic strengthening as well as NMDA and AMPA receptor trafficking. Both high and low levels of STEP disrupt synaptic function and contribute to learning and behavioral deficits. High levels of STEP are present in human postmortem samples and animal models of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and schizophrenia and in animal models of fragile X syndrome. Low levels of STEP activity are present in additional disorders that include ischemia, Huntington’s chorea, alcohol abuse, and stress disorders. Thus the current model of STEP is that optimal levels are required for optimal synaptic function. Here we focus on the role of STEP in Alzheimer’s disease and the mechanisms by which STEP activity is increased in this illness. Both genetic lowering of STEP levels and pharmacological inhibition of STEP activity in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease reverse the biochemical and cognitive abnormalities that are present. These findings suggest that STEP is an important point for modulation of proteins required for synaptic plasticity.
Acute Abdominal Pain Caused by an Infected Mesenteric Cyst in a 24-Year-Old Female
Authors: Sudiono Davy R. , Ponten Joep B. , Zijta Frank M.
Published: April 2016

A mesenteric cyst is a rare cause for abdominal pain. This umbrella term includes cystic entities which reside in the mesentery. We present a case of an infected false mesenteric cyst in a 24-year-old female patient without prior surgery or known trauma. Mainstay of treatment involves surgical resection, although less invasive treatments have been described. Prognosis depends on the origin of the cyst.