bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lack of Effect of Ankle Position During the Nordic Curl on Muscle Activity of the Biceps Femoris and Medial Gastrocnemius
Authors: Comfort Paul , Regan Amy , Herrington Lee , Thomas Chris , McMahon John , Jones Paul
Published: January 2016

Context:

Regular performance (~2×/wk) of Nordic curls has been shown to increase hamstring strength and reduce the risk of hamstring strain injury, although no consensus on ankle position has been provided.

Objective:

To compare the effects of performing Nordic curls, with the ankle in a dorsiflexed (DF) or plantar-flexed (PF) position, on muscle activity of the biceps femoris (BF) and medial gastrocnemius (MG).

Participants:

15 male college athletes (age 22.6 ± 2.1 y, height 1.78 ± 0.06 m, body mass 88.75 ± 8.95 kg).

Design:

A repeated-measures design was used, with participants performing 2 sets of 3 repetitions of both variations of Nordic curls, while muscle activity was assessed via surface electromyography (EMG) of the BF and MG. Comparisons of muscle activity were made by examining the normalized EMG data as the percentage of their maximum voluntary isometric contraction.

Results:

Paired-samples t test revealed no significant difference in normalized muscle activity of the BF (124.5% ± 6.2% vs 128.1 ± 5.0%, P > .05, Cohen d = 0.64, power = .996) or MG (82.1% ± 3.9% vs 83.5 ± 4.8%, P > .05, Cohen d = 0.32, power = .947) during the Nordic curls in a PF or DF position, respectively.

Conclusion:

Ankle position does not influence muscle activity during the Nordic curl; however, performance of Nordic curls with the ankle in a DF position may be preferential, as this replicates the ankle position during terminal leg swing during running, which tends to be the point at which hamstring strains have been reported.
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Metabolite-Dependent Quiescence and Persistence May Explain Antibiotic Tolerance during Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Leatham-Jensen Mary P. , Mokszycki Matthew E. , Rowley David C. , Deering Robert , Camberg Jodi L. , Sokurenko Evgeni V. , Tchesnokova Veronika L. , Frimodt-Møller Jakob , Krogfelt Karen A. , Leth Nielsen Karen , Frimodt-Møller Niels , Sun Gongqin , Cohen Paul S.
Published: January 2016

Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect 10 to 40% of women. In up to 77% of those cases, the recurrent infections are caused by the same uropathogenic
E. coli
(UPEC) strain that caused the initial infection. Upon infection of urothelial transitional cells in the bladder, UPEC appear to enter a nongrowing quiescent intracellular state that is thought to serve as a reservoir responsible for recurrent UTIs. Here, we report that many UPEC strains enter a quiescent state when ≤10
6
CFU are seeded on glucose M9 minimal medium agar plates and show that mutations in several genes involved in central carbon metabolism prevent quiescence, as well as persistence, possibly identifying metabolic pathways involved in UPEC quiescence and persistence
in vivo
.
A Novel Glycolipid Biosurfactant Confers Grazing Resistance upon Pantoea ananatis BRT175 against the Social Amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum
Authors: Smith Derek D. N. , Nickzad Arvin , Déziel Eric , Stavrinides John
Published: January 2016

The genetic factors used for host interaction by the opportunistic human pathogenPantoea ananatisare largely unknown. We identified two genes that are important for the production of a biosurfactant that confers grazing resistance against the social amoebaDictyostelium discoideum. We show that the biosurfactant, which exhibits cytotoxicity toward the amoebae, is a glycolipid that incorporates a hexose rather than rhamnose. The production of this biosurfactant may confer a competitive advantage in the environment and could potentially contribute to the establishment of opportunistic infections.
TgATAT-Mediated α-Tubulin Acetylation Is Required for Division of the Protozoan Parasite Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Varberg Joseph M. , Padgett Leah R. , Arrizabalaga Gustavo , Sullivan William J.
Published: January 2016

Toxoplasma gondii
is an opportunistic parasite that infects at least one-third of the world population. New treatments for the disease (toxoplasmosis) are needed since current drugs are toxic to patients. Microtubules are essential cellular structures built from tubulin that show promise as antimicrobial drug targets. Microtubules can be regulated by chemical modification, such as acetylation on lysine 40 (K40). To determine the role of K40 acetylation in
Toxoplasma
and whether it is a liability to the parasite, we performed mutational analyses of the α-tubulin gene. Our results indicate that parasites cannot survive without K40 acetylation unless microtubules are stabilized with a secondary mutation. Additionally, we identified the parasite enzyme that acetylates α-tubulin (TgATAT). Genetic disruption of
TgATAT
caused severe defects in parasite replication, further highlighting the importance of α-tubulin K40 acetylation in
Toxoplasma
and its promise as a potential new drug target.
Prevalence of clinically elevated depressive symptoms in college athletes and differences by gender and sport
Authors: Wolanin Andrew , Hong Eugene , Marks Donald , Panchoo Kelly , Gross Michael
Published: January 2016

Background

There are approximately 400 000 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) student athletes and 5–7 million high school student athletes competing each year. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, the depression prevalence rate for young adults, which ranges from 10% to 85% across studies, is higher than that of other age groups. Given the relatively high prevalence of depression in individuals of collegiate age in the general population, the prevalence of depression among athletes in this age group warrants further study. This multiyear study examined the prevalence of depressive symptoms in college athletes, as well as demographic factors related to increased or decreased rates of depressive symptoms by gender and sport.

Objective

To describe the prevalence of depression symptoms among NCAA division I student athletes at a single institution over 3 consecutive years.

Method

Participants (n=465) completed a battery of measures during their yearly spring sports medicine physical across 3 consecutive years. The battery included the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and a demographic questionnaire, administered during the course of routine sports medicine physical examinations. Differences in depressive symptoms prevalence and relative risk ratios were calculated by gender and sport.

Results

The prevalence rate for a clinically relevant level of depressive symptoms, as measured on the CES-D (CES-D ≥16), was 23.7%. A moderate to severe level of depressive symptoms was reported by 6.3%. There was a significant gender difference in prevalence of depressive symptoms, χ2(1)=7.459, p=0.006, with female athletes exhibiting 1.844 times the risk of male athletes for endorsing clinically relevant symptoms.

Conclusions

The CES-D identified clinically relevant levels of depressive symptoms in nearly one-quarter of college student athletes in this large cross-sectional sample. Female college athletes reported significantly more depressive symptoms than males. Findings suggest that depression prevalence among college athletes is comparable to that found in the general college population. In light of these findings, sports medicine personnel may wish to implement depression screening and assessment of depressive symptoms across sports to identify at-risk athletes. Risk factors related to depression in college athletes warrant additional study.
Variation in piperidine alkaloid chemistry of Norway spruce (Picea abies) foliage in diverse geographic origins grown in the same area
Authors: Virjamo V. , Julkunen-Tiitto R.
Published: January 2016

Volatile piperidine alkaloids are widespread compounds found in low amounts in coniferous species. Here, we investigated the variation of piperidine alkaloid chemistry of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) in a provenance-type experiment. Volatile piperidine alkaloids were analysed from current-year mature needles of 12 geographical origins grown for 35 years at the same site. Results indicate that, despite long-lasting similar growth conditions, origins were still showing different alkaloid composition and concentrations, indicating solid genotype variation. The highest total piperidine alkaloid concentrations were detected in the northernmost origins, and a marked positive correlation between piperidine alkaloid concentrations and latitude was found. Positive correlation with latitude seems to be closely linked to negative correlation with annual temperature sum of origins. Interestingly, the changes in concentrations detected were not related to needle size and dilution effect. Regarding the possible herbivore-defense role of P. abies piperidine alkaloids, the high variation between origins could play a role for preventing the invasion of genotypes from different geographical areas.
Vertical distribution of three longhorned beetle species (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) in burned trees of the boreal forest
Authors: Cadorette-Breton Yannick , Hébert Christian , Ibarzabal Jacques , Berthiaume Richard , Bauce Éric
Published: January 2016

This study aimed to characterize the vertical distribution of longhorned beetle larvae in burned trees of the eastern Canadian boreal forest. Black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill.) Britton, Sterns & Poggenb.) and jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.) trees burned at three severity levels were cut, and 30 cm boles were collected from the ground up to a height of 9.45 m. Boles were debarked and dissected to collect insect larvae. Results show that the three most abundant longhorned beetle species were vertically segregated among burned jack pine and black spruce trees, but the section having the highest timber value was heavily infested by woodborer larvae. Larval density distribution of Monochamus scutellatus scutellatus (Say) and of Acmaeops proteus proteus (Kirby) could be linked with bark thickness, which also depends on fire severity. Lightly burned stands of black spruce were the most heavily infested and should be salvaged only if they are easily accessible and can thus be rapidly harvested and processed at the mill. More severely burned stands should be salvaged later as they will be less affected by woodborers, as should jack pine, which is lightly infested compared with black spruce. The ecological role of stumps should be further investigated because they could still have an ecological value after salvage logging as Arhopalus foveicollis (Haldeman) uses them specifically.
Entropy spectrum of the apparent horizon of Vaidya black holes via adiabatic invariance
Authors: Chen Ge-Rui , Huang Yong-Chang
Published: January 2016

The spectroscopy of the apparent horizon of Vaidya black holes is investigated via adiabatic invariance. We obtain an equally spaced entropy spectrum with its quantum equal to the one given by Bekenstein [J. D. Bekenstein, Phys. Rev. D 7, 2333 (1973)]. We demonstrate that the quantization of entropy and area is a generic property of horizon, not only for stationary black holes, and the results also exit in a dynamical black hole. Our work also shows that the quantization of black hole is closely related to the tunneling formalism for deriving the Hawking effect, which is interesting.
New upper limits of a braneworld model with recent Solar System tests
Authors: Deng Xue-Mei , Xie Yi
Published: January 2016

As an extension of previous works on classical tests of a braneworld model which is called as the Dadhich, Maartens, Papadopoulos and Rezania (DMPR) solution, and as an attempt to find more stringent constraints on this model, we investigate its effects on physical experiments and astronomical observations conducted in the Solar System by modeling new observable effects and adopting new datasets. First, we investigate gravitational time delay at inferior conjunction (IC) caused by the braneworld model, which was not considered in previous works, because these measurements are not affected by the solar corona noise. Second, the Cassini superior conjunction (SC) experiment is, for the first time, used to test the DMPR model. Third, compared to previous works, we refine the model, which confronts the perihelion shift induced by the braneworld model with modern Solar System ephemerides INPOP10a (IMCCE, France) and EPM2011 (IAA RAS, Russia). The correction of DMPR solution to Einstein’s general relativity (GR) in the four-dimensional spacetime can be characterized by a constant bulk “tidal charge” parameter [Formula: see text], which is confined in the present work. We find that time delay experiment at IC is independent of [Formula: see text] and not suitable for testing the braneworld model. However, the Cassini SC experiment and modern Solar System ephemerides can give better upper bounds on [Formula: see text]: (1) [Formula: see text] by Cassini, and (2) [Formula: see text] based on the supplementary advances of the perihelia provided by INPOP10a and [Formula: see text] based on the ones of EPM2011. The latter upper bounds are improved to be tighter than the ones of previous works by at least two orders of magnitude. Besides, the stronger constraints on the brane tension are given by the modern ephemerides, which are [Formula: see text] for INPOP10a and [Formula: see text] for EPM2011. These improved upper bounds mean that the Solar System tests can serve as a good testbed for high dimensional theories.
A Low Power High Gain CMOS LNA with Multiple-Feedback Network for Low Voltage UWB Receiver
Authors: Zhao Lv , Wang Chunhua
Published: January 2016

In this paper, a high gain low voltage low power Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) Low-noise Amplifier (LNA) using Chartered 0.18[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m CMOS process for Ultra-wideband (UWB) receiver applications is presented. A novel multiple-feedback network constructed by the shunt feedback resistor with a transformer is adopted to realize desirable bandwidth extension and less chip area occupation in the common-source stage. All the cascaded transistors are configured by current-reuse structure and adjusted by forward body bias technique to further reduce supply voltage and power dissipation. The post-layout simulation results demonstrate that the proposed 3.4–10.1[Formula: see text]GHz UWB LNA accomplishes a maximum gain of 14.26[Formula: see text]dB with only 2.33[Formula: see text]mW power consumption at 0.8[Formula: see text]V supply voltage, while Noise Figure (NF) is 1.49–3.41[Formula: see text]dB and the chip area is 0.46[Formula: see text]mm2 including test pads (core area is 0.23[Formula: see text]mm2).
Synthesis and Applications of Luminescent Nucleic Acid-Based Silver Nanoclusters
Authors: Teo Boon Mian
Published: January 2016

The aim of this paper is to outline and discuss novel and promising findings focusing on (i) the synthesis of fluorescent silver nanoclusters (NCs) using DNA as the stabilizing scaffolds, (ii) the origins of fluorescence and (iii) recent applications in biosensing and imaging. By reviewing the recent synthesis methods and applications of DNA-based silver NCs, we hope to demonstrate that these novel nanolights have the potential to be successful in biomedicine beyond their typically envisioned purposes.
Layout Design of Human-Machine Interaction Interface of Cabin Based on Cognitive Ergonomics and GA-ACA
Authors: Deng Li , Wang Guohua , Yu Suihuai
Published: January 2016

In order to consider the psychological cognitive characteristics affecting operating comfort and realize the automatic layout design, cognitive ergonomics and GA-ACA (genetic algorithm and ant colony algorithm) were introduced into the layout design of human-machine interaction interface. First, from the perspective of cognitive psychology, according to the information processing process, the cognitive model of human-machine interaction interface was established. Then, the human cognitive characteristics were analyzed, and the layout principles of human-machine interaction interface were summarized as the constraints in layout design. Again, the expression form of fitness function, pheromone, and heuristic information for the layout optimization of cabin was studied. The layout design model of human-machine interaction interface was established based on GA-ACA. At last, a layout design system was developed based on this model. For validation, the human-machine interaction interface layout design of drilling rig control room was taken as an example, and the optimization result showed the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Investigating Therapeutic Potential ofTrigonella foenum-graecumL. as Our Defense Mechanism against Several Human Diseases
Authors: Goyal Shivangi , Gupta Nidhi , Chatterjee Sreemoyee
Published: January 2016

Current lifestyle, stress, and pollution have dramatically enhanced the progression of several diseases in human. Globally, scientists are looking for therapeutic agents that can either cure or delay the onset of diseases. Medicinal plants from time immemorial have been used frequently in therapeutics. Of many such plants, fenugreek is one of the oldest herbs which have been identified as an important medicinal plant by the researchers around the world. It is potentially beneficial in a number of diseases such as diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and inflammation and probably in several kinds of cancers. It has industrial applications such as synthesis of steroidal hormones. Its medicinal properties and their role in clinical domain can be attributed to its chemical constituents. The 3 major chemical constituents which have been identified as responsible for principle health effects are galactomannan, 4-OH isoleucine, and steroidal saponin. Numerous experiments have been carried outin vivoandin vitrofor beneficial effects of both the crude chemical and of its active constituent. Due to its role in health care, the functional food industry has referred to it as a potential nutraceutical. This paper is about various medicinal benefits of fenugreek and its potential application as therapeutic agent against several diseases.
Fabrication and Optimization of ChE/ChO/HRP-AuNPs/c-MWCNTs Based Silver Electrode for Determining Total Cholesterol in Serum
Authors: Lata Kusum , Dhull Vikas , Hooda Vikas
Published: January 2016

The developed method used three enzymes comprised of cholesterol esterase, cholesterol oxidase, and peroxidase for fabrication of amperometric biosensor in order to determine total cholesterol in serum samples. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and carboxylated multiwall carbon nanotubes (cMWCNTs) were used to design core of working electrode, having covalently immobilized ChO, ChE, and HRP. Polyacrylamide layer was finally coated on working electrode in order to prevent enzyme leaching. Chemically synthesised Au nanoparticles were subjected to transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for analysing the shape and size of the particles. Working electrode was subjected to FTIR and XRD. The combined action of AuNP and c-MWCNT showed enhancement in electrocatalytic activity at a very low potential of 0.27 V. The pH 7, temperature 40°C, and response time of 20 seconds, respectively, were observed. The biosensor shows a broad linear range from 0.5 mg/dL to 250 mg/dL (0.01 mM–5.83 mM) with minimum detection limit being 0.5 mg/dL (0.01 mM). The biosensor showed reusability of more than 45 times and was stable for 60 days. The biosensor was successfully tested for determining total cholesterol in serum samples amperometrically with no significant interference by serum components.
Density and Optical Properties of {Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride + Aqueous-Ethanol} Mixtures at 30°C
Authors: Deosarkar S. D. , Birajdar S. S. , Sawale R. T. , Pawar M. P. , Thakre A. M.
Published: January 2016

The paper deals with the calculation of molar refraction (RM) and polarizability (α) of antibiotic drug ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (c= 0.001–0.029 mol·dm−3) solutions in ethanol-water mixtures of different compositions (30, 50, and 70% v/v) from measured density (ρ) and refractive index (n) at 30°C. The effect of drug concentration and composition of ethanol-water mixtures on density and optical properties of drug solutions has been described.
Efficient Dynamic Replicated Data Possession Checking in Distributed Cloud Storage Systems
Authors: Wei Jinxia , Liu Jianyi , Zhang Ru , Niu Xinxin
Published: January 2016

More and more organizations outsource their data to remote cloud servers (RCSs). Data owners rent the cloud service providers (CSPs) infrastructure to store their unlimited resources by paying fees metered in month or gigabyte. For increasing the availability and scalability of data, the data owners store their data replicas on multiple servers across multiple data centers. Data owners should ensure that the CSPs actually store all their copies according to the service contract. In this paper, we present an efficient dynamic multicopies possession checking scheme that has the following properties: (1) the data owner uses fully homomorphic encryption (FHE) algorithm to generate multiple copies; (2) the scheme supports data block dynamic operation; (3) the scheme supports third-party auditor's public validation. Finally, security analysis and experimental results show that our scheme can resist forgery, replacement, and replay attack and perform better than some other related scheme published recently.
Predictive Response Value of Pre- and Postchemoradiotherapy Variables in Rectal Cancer: An Analysis of Histological Data
Authors: Santos Marisa D. , Silva Cristina , Rocha Anabela , Nogueira Carlos , Matos Eduarda , Lopes Carlos
Published: January 2016

Background. Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) followed by curative surgery in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) improves pelvic disease control. Survival improvement is achieved only if pathological response occurs. Mandard tumor regression grade (TRG) proved to be a valid system to measure nCRT response. Potential predictive factors for Mandard response are analyzed. Materials and Methods. 167 patients with LARC were treated with nCRT and curative surgery. Tumor biopsies and surgical specimens were reviewed and analyzed regarding mitotic count, necrosis, desmoplastic reaction, and inflammatory infiltration grade. Surgical specimens were classified according to Mandard TRG. The patients were divided as “good responders” (Mandard TRG1-2) and “bad responders” (Mandard TRG3-5). According to results from our previous data, good responders have better prognosis than bad responders. We examined predictive factors for Mandard response and performed statistical analysis. Results. In univariate analysis, distance from anal verge and ten other postoperative variables related with nCRT tumor response had predictive value for Mandard response. In multivariable analysis only mitotic count, necrosis, and differentiation grade in surgical specimen had predictive value. Conclusions. There is a lack of clinical and pathological preoperative variables able to predict Mandard response. Only postoperative pathological parameters related with nCRT response have predictive value.
Exploiting Explicit and Implicit Feedback for Personalized Ranking
Authors: Li Gai , Chen Qiang
Published: January 2016

The problem of the previous researches on personalized ranking is that they focused on either explicit feedback data or implicit feedback data rather than making full use of the information in the dataset. Until now, nobody has studied personalized ranking algorithm by exploiting both explicit and implicit feedback. In order to overcome the defects of prior researches, a new personalized ranking algorithm (MERR_SVD++) based on the newest xCLiMF model and SVD++ algorithm was proposed, which exploited both explicit and implicit feedback simultaneously and optimized the well-known evaluation metric Expected Reciprocal Rank (ERR). Experimental results on practical datasets showed that our proposed algorithm outperformed existing personalized ranking algorithms over different evaluation metrics and that the running time of MERR_SVD++ showed a linear correlation with the number of rating. Because of its high precision and the good expansibility, MERR_SVD++ is suitable for processing big data and has wide application prospect in the field of internet information recommendation.
In Silico Designing and Analysis of Inhibitors against Target Protein Identified through Host-Pathogen Protein Interactions in Malaria
Authors: Samant Monika , Chadha Nidhi , Tiwari Anjani K. , Hasija Yasha
Published: January 2016

Malaria, a life-threatening blood disease, has been a major concern in the field of healthcare. One of the severe forms of malaria is caused by the parasite Plasmodium falciparum which is initiated through protein interactions of pathogen with the host proteins. It is essential to analyse the protein-protein interactions among the host and pathogen for better understanding of the process and characterizing specific molecular mechanisms involved in pathogen persistence and survival. In this study, a complete protein-protein interaction network of human host and Plasmodium falciparum has been generated by integration of the experimental data and computationally predicting interactions using the interolog method. The interacting proteins were filtered according to their biological significance and functional roles. α-tubulin was identified as a potential protein target and inhibitors were designed against it by modification of amiprophos methyl. Docking and binding affinity analysis showed two modified inhibitors exhibiting better docking scores of −10.5 kcal/mol and −10.43 kcal/mol and an improved binding affinity of −83.80 kJ/mol and −98.16 kJ/mol with the target. These inhibitors can further be tested and validated in vivo for their properties as an antimalarial drug.
Organogenesis and Ultrastructural Features ofIn VitroGrownCanna indicaL.
Authors: Wafa Sharifah Nurashikin , Mat Taha Rosna , Mohajer Sadegh , Mahmad Noraini , Ali Ahmed Abdul Bakrudeen
Published: January 2016

An efficient protocol for micropropagation ofCanna indicaL., an economically and pharmaceutically important plant, was standardized using rhizome explants, excised from two-month-old aseptic seedlings. Complete plant regeneration was induced on MS medium supplemented with 3.0 mg/L BAP plus 1.5 mg/L NAA, which produced the highest number of shoots (73.3 ± 0.5%) and roots (86.7 ± 0.4%) after 2 weeks. Furthermore, the optimum media for multiple shoots regeneration were recorded on MS enriched with 7.0 mg/L BAP (33.0 ± 0.5%). Plantlets obtained were transplanted to pots after two months and acclimatized in the greenhouse, with 75% survival. In addition, ultrastructural studies showed that rhizomes ofin vitrogrown specimens were underdeveloped compared to thein vivospecimens, possibly due to the presence of wide spaces. Meanwhile, the leaves ofin vivospecimens had more open stomata compared toin vitrospecimens, yet their paracytic stomata structures were similar. Hence, there were no abnormalities or major differences betweenin vitroregenerants and mother plants.
Review on Recent Advances in Pulse Detonation Engines
Authors: Pandey K. M. , Debnath Pinku
Published: January 2016

Pulse detonation engines (PDEs) are new exciting propulsion technologies for future propulsion applications. The operating cycles of PDE consist of fuel-air mixture, combustion, blowdown, and purging. The combustion process in pulse detonation engine is the most important phenomenon as it produces reliable and repeatable detonation waves. The detonation wave initiation in detonation tube in practical system is a combination of multistage combustion phenomena. Detonation combustion causes rapid burning of fuel-air mixture, which is a thousand times faster than deflagration mode of combustion process. PDE utilizes repetitive detonation wave to produce propulsion thrust. In the present paper, detailed review of various experimental studies and computational analysis addressing the detonation mode of combustion in pulse detonation engines are discussed. The effect of different parameters on the improvement of propulsion performance of pulse detonation engine has been presented in detail in this research paper. It is observed that the design of detonation wave flow path in detonation tube, ejectors at exit section of detonation tube, and operating parameters such as Mach numbers are mainly responsible for improving the propulsion performance of PDE. In the present review work, further scope of research in this area has also been suggested.
Increased IL-21 Expression Induces Granzyme B in Peripheral CD5+B Cells as a Potential Counter-Regulatory Effect in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome
Authors: Papp Gábor , Gyimesi Edit , Szabó Krisztina , Zöld Éva , Zeher Margit
Published: January 2016

Recently, we reported elevated proportions of circulating follicular T helper cells and higher levels of interleukin- (IL-) 21 in primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS). Interaction of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells with B cells and granzyme B (GrB) production may be also important in pSS. Thirty-two pSS patients and 24 healthy controls were enrolled in our study. We investigated the expression of intracellular GrB and IL-21 receptor (IL-21R) of CD19+CD5+and CD19+CD5−B cells; furthermore, we determined the IL-21 expression of iNKT cells as well. We also assessed the proportion of transitional (CD19+CD24highCD38high), mature (CD19+CD24intCD38int) and primarily memory (CD19+CD24highCD38-) B cells. CD5+but not CD5−B cells showed elevated GrB and IL-21R expression in pSS; additionally IL-21 expression of iNKT cells was also elevated. The ratios of transitional and mature B cells were elevated in pSS, while primarily memory B cell percentages were decreased, which correlated with GrB and IL-21R expression of CD19+B cells. Our results suggest that enhanced IL-21R expression of CD19+CD5+B cells and production of IL-21 by iNKT cells may play an important role in the pathogenesis of pSS by regulating CD19+CD5+B cell functions and increasing GrB production, presumably leading to a counter-regulatory effect in the disease.
Concomitant Use of Fourier Transform Infrared Attenuated Total Reflectance Spectroscopy and Chemometrics for Quantification of Multiple Adulterants in Roasted and Ground Coffee
Authors: Reis Nádia , Franca Adriana S. , Oliveira Leandro S.
Published: January 2016

This paper proposed the joint use of Fourier Transform Infrared Attenuated Total Reflectance Spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR) and Partial Least Square (PLS) regression for the simultaneous quantification of four adulterants (coffee husks, spent coffee grounds, barley, and corn) in roasted and ground coffee. Roasted coffee samples were intentionally blended with the adulterants, at adulteration levels ranging from 0.5 to 66% w/w. A robust methodology was implemented in which the identification of outliers was carried out. High correlation coefficients (0.99 for both calibration and validation) coupled with low degrees of error (0.69% for calibration; 2.00% for validation) confirmed that FTIR-ATR can be a valuable analytical tool for quantification of adulteration in roasted and ground coffee. This method is simple, fast, and reliable for the proposed purpose.
Application-Driven OAM Framework for Heterogeneous IoT Environments
Authors: Sterle Janez , Sedlar Urban , Rugelj Miha , Kos Andrej , Volk Mojca
Published: January 2016

We present a novel approach for providing a comprehensive operational picture of heterogeneous networks by collecting system information from physical, data-link, network and application layers using extended methods and mechanisms for OAM, which take into account particularities of persistent access heterogeneity and IoT. A heterogeneous OAM (H-OAM) framework is proposed with a toolset for streamlined failure detection and isolation, and automated performance measurement and monitoring. The framework combines extended standardized OAM toolsets for physical and data-link layers with multiple well-defined and recognized IP network layer toolsets, which introduces possibilities for a tactical view of the monitored system and quick root cause analysis with unified interpretation and cross-correlation of horizontal and vertical levels. A practical deployment of an H-OAM system is presented and its use is demonstrated in a live mobile IoT testbed environment where performance is a function of a wide variety of physical layer parameters that need to be tuned and monitored by the operator. Results of two concrete usage scenarios performed in cooperation with two largest Slovenian mobile operators demonstrate how continuity check and connectivity verification, and performance diagnostics are conducted for Web-based IoT applications and network services of a live operational environment.
Tablet PC Enabled Body Sensor System for Rural Telehealth Applications
Authors: Panicker Nitha V. , Kumar A. Sukesh
Published: January 2016

Telehealth systems benefit from the rapid growth of mobile communication technology for measuring physiological signals. Development and validation of a tablet PC enabled noninvasive body sensor system for rural telehealth application are discussed in this paper. This system includes real time continuous collection of physiological parameters (blood pressure, pulse rate, and temperature) and fall detection of a patient with the help of a body sensor unit and wireless transmission of the acquired information to a tablet PC handled by the medical staff in a Primary Health Center (PHC). Abnormal conditions are automatically identified and alert messages are given to the medical officer in real time. Clinical validation is performed in a real environment and found to be successful. Bland-Altman analysis is carried out to validate the wrist blood pressure sensor used. The system works well for all measurements.
Study on the Impact of Thermal Agitation on Doppler Coefficient in Epithermal Range for Gd-Bearing Fuel
Authors: Takeda Satoshi , Ino Satoshi , Wada Kazuhiro , Ono Michitaka , Kitada Takanori
Published: January 2016

The impact of thermal agitation on Doppler coefficient for Gd-bearing fuel was analyzed. It was found through the analysis that the impact increases when a small amount of Gd2O3is added to pure UO2fuel although the impact decreases for a large amount of Gd2O3. This tendency was discussed with the usage of simplified expression for the difference of Doppler coefficient. The simplified expression was used to consider the tendency, and it was revealed that the tendency mainly comes from the rapid decrement of multiplication factor and the relatively slow decrement of the magnitude of sensitivity coefficient of U-238 capture cross section at low Gd2O3concentration. Similar tendency which shows a maximum impact on Doppler coefficient at interior concentration is expected for other UO2fuel with a slight content of strong absorber. This indicates that Doppler coefficient of UO2fuel system with low content of strong absorber should be analyzed carefully by considering thermal agitation in epithermal range.
Immunohistochemical Studies on Galectin Expression in Colectomised Patients with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Block Mattias , Mölne Johan , Leffler Hakon , Börjesson Lars , Breimer Michael E.
Published: January 2016

Introduction. The aetiology and pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC) are essentially unknown. Galectins are carbohydrate-binding lectins involved in a large number of physiological and pathophysiological processes. Little is known about the role of galectins in human UC. In this immunohistochemical exploratory study, both epithelial and inflammatory cell galectin expression were studied in patients with a thoroughly documented clinical history and were correlated with inflammatory activity.Material and Methods. Surgical whole intestinal wall colon specimens from UC patients (n=22) and controls (n=10) were studied. Clinical history, pharmacological treatment, and modified Mayo-score were recorded. Tissue inflammation was graded, and sections were stained with antibodies recognizing galectin-1, galectin-2, galectin-3, and galectin-4.Results. Galectin-1 was undetectable in normal and UC colonic epithelium, while galectin-2, galectin-3, and galectin-4 were strongly expressed. A tendency towards diminished epithelial expression with increased inflammatory grade for galectin-2, galectin-3, and galectin-4 was also found. In the inflammatory cells, a strong expression of galectin-2 and a weak expression of galectin-3 were seen. No clear-cut correlation between epithelial galectin expression and severity of the disease was found.Conclusion. Galectin expression in patients with UC seems to be more dependent on disease focality and individual variation than on degree of tissue inflammation.
The Role of a Primary Arthroplasty in the Treatment of Proximal Tibia Fractures in Orthogeriatric Patients
Authors: Haufe Thomas , Förch Stefan , Müller Peter , Plath Johannes , Mayr Edgar
Published: January 2016

The total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is the gold standard for patients with an advanced symptomatic gonarthrosis. However, there are very few publications dealing with the primary TKA for patients with a proximal tibia fracture. In our retrospective study we evaluated 30 patients treated with a TKA for a proximal tibia fracture in our institution between 01/2008 and 12/2014. We collected the following statistical data from each patient: age, classification of the fracture (AO-classification), type of prosthesis used, length of the operation and hospitalization, and complications during the follow-up. We used the Knee Society Score (KSS) and the WOMAC score to evaluate the function. The Knee Society Score showed an average “general knee score” (KSS1) of 81.1 points and an average “functional knee score” (KSS2) of 74.5 points. The average WOMAC score was 78.6 points. Immediate postoperative mobilization with the possibility of a full-weight bearing is of crucial importance for the geriatric patients to maintain the mobility they had prior to the operation and reduce medical complications. Because of these advantages, the primary TKA seems to be a promising alternative to the ORIF of a proximal tibia fracture in the orthogeriatric patient.
The Optimal Design Method and Standardized Mathematical Model of Tooth Profile Modification of Spur Gear
Authors: Mei Wenjie , Na Jingzhou , Yang Fan , Shen Guike , Chen Jiawei
Published: January 2016

The paper reports a tooth profile modification method of spur gear. After establishing a standardized mathematical model for optimized tooth profile and simulating meshing process with ANSYS finite element analysis, we obtained 625 groups of gear models with different modification parameters. The group with minimum transmission errors owns the optimal parameters. Genetic algorithm was adopted in the entire process for the purpose of reducing the variation of transmission errors in meshing process. The arc and parabolic modification were doing the same processing. After comparing the transmission errors fluctuation produced by the meshing process of gear of nonmodification with arc modification and parabolic modification, we found that the best modification effects of arc modification and parabolic modification were both reduced by 90%. The modification method makes the gear drive process more stable and efficient, and it is also promising in general application for gear drive.
A Multipath Routing Protocol Based on Bloom Filter for Multihop Wireless Networks
Authors: Jin Junwei , Ahn Sanghyun
Published: January 2016

On-demand multipath routing in a wireless ad hoc network is effective in achieving load balancing over the network and in improving the degree of resilience to mobility. In this paper, the salvage capable opportunistic node-disjoint multipath routing (SNMR) protocol is proposed, which forms multiple routes for data transmission and supports packet salvaging with minimum overhead. The proposed mechanism constructs a primary path and a node-disjoint backup path together with alternative paths for the intermediate nodes in the primary path. It can be achieved by considering the reverse route back to the source stored in the route cache and the primary path information compressed by a Bloom filter. Our protocol presents higher capability in packet salvaging and lower overhead in forming multiple routes. Simulation results show that SNMR outperforms the compared protocols in terms of packet delivery ratio, normalized routing load, and throughput.
High Intensity Aerobic Exercise Training Improves Deficits of Cardiovascular Autonomic Function in a Rat Model of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus with Moderate Hyperglycemia
Authors: Grisé Kenneth N. , Olver T. Dylan , McDonald Matthew W. , Dey Adwitia , Jiang Mao , Lacefield James C. , Shoemaker J. Kevin , Noble Earl G. , Melling C. W. James
Published: January 2016

Indices of cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) in experimental models of Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are often contrary to clinical data. Here, we investigated whether a relatable insulin-treated model of T1DM would induce deficits in cardiovascular (CV) autonomic function more reflective of clinical results and if exercise training could prevent those deficits. Sixty-four rats were divided into four groups: sedentary control (C), sedentary T1DM (D), control exercise (CX), or T1DM exercise (DX). Diabetes was induced via multiple low-dose injections of streptozotocin and blood glucose was maintained at moderate hyperglycemia (9–17 mM) through insulin supplementation. Exercise training consisted of daily treadmill running for 10 weeks. Compared to C, D had blunted baroreflex sensitivity, increased vascular sympathetic tone, increased serum neuropeptide Y (NPY), and decreased intrinsic heart rate. In contrast, DX differed from D in all measures of CAN (except NPY), including heart rate variability. These findings demonstrate that this T1DM model elicits deficits and exercise-mediated improvements to CV autonomic function which are reflective of clinical T1DM.
An Experimental Study for Quantitative Estimation of Rebar Corrosion in Concrete Using Ground Penetrating Radar
Authors: Hasan Md Istiaque , Yazdani Nur
Published: January 2016

Corrosion of steel rebar in reinforced concrete is one the most important durability issues in the service life of a structure. In this paper, an investigation is conducted to find out the relationship between the amount of reinforced concrete corrosion and GPR maximum positive amplitude. Accelerated corrosion was simulated in the lab by impressing direct current into steel rebar that was submerged in a 5% salt water solution. The amount of corrosion was varied in the rebars with different levels of mass loss ranging from 0% to 45%. The corroded rebars were then placed into three different oil emulsion tanks having different dielectric properties similar to concrete. The maximum amplitudes from the corroded bars were recorded. A linear relationship between the maximum positive amplitudes and the amount of corrosion in terms of percentage loss of area was observed. It was proposed that the relationship between the GPR maximum amplitude and the amount of corrosion can be used as a basis of a NDE technique of quantitative estimation of corrosion.
Traumatic Arteriovenous Fistula of the Scalp in the Left Temporoparietal Region with Intra- and Extracranial Blood Supply
Authors: Zheng Feng , Augustus Pitts Herbert , Goldbrunner Roland , Krischek Boris
Published: January 2016

Traumatic AVF of the scalp is a rare abnormal vascular disease. It is defined as a communication between the high flow arterial system and the low flow venous network, which directly connects the arterial feeding vessels of the scalp and the draining veins without an intervening capillary bed. The superficial temporal artery (STA) was involved in 90% of the cases, and 71% of the patients only had one dominant feeding STA. Here, we report the case of a rare large traumatic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) of the scalp that is fed by intra- and extracranial blood supply. The clinical and radiological features are presented, and the possible pathogenesis and surgical technique are discussed.
Perceived Benefits of Yoga among Urban School Students: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Wang Donna , Hagins Marshall
Published: January 2016

This study reports on the findings of a qualitative evaluation of a yoga intervention program for urban middle and high school youth in New York City public and charter schools. Six focus groups were conducted with students who participated in a year‐long yoga program to determine their perceptions of mental and physical benefits as well as barriers and challenges. Results show that students perceived the benefits of yoga as increased self‐regulation, mindfulness, self‐esteem, physical conditioning, academic performance, and stress reduction. Barriers and challenges for a yoga practice include lack of time and space. The extent to which the benefits experienced are interrelated to one another is discussed. Suggestions for future research and school‐based programming are also offered.
Effects of Deposition Potentials on the Morphology and Structure of Iron-Based Films on Carbon Steel Substrate in an Alkaline Solution
Authors: Jeon Soon-Hyeok , Song Geun-Dong , Hur Do Haeng
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this work is to investigate the effect of electrochemical deposition potential on the morphology and structure of iron-based films on the carbon steel in an alkaline Fe(III)-triethanolamine solution. The deposition potentials were controlled in the range from −1.05 to −1.23 VSCEfor 1800 s at 80°C. Total amount of electric charge for electrodeposition process was increased with increasing deposition potential in negative direction. Pure magnetite films with a columnar and defect-free structure were deposited in the potential range from −1.05 VSCEto −1.11 VSCE. However, petal-like magnetite film containing ferrihydrite and iron was formed at −1.17 VSCE. At more negative potential of −1.23 VSCE, two distinct layers were observed: a porous outer layer containing ferrihydrite and goethite and a compact inner layer consisting of columnar metallic iron. In the potential range from −1.05 to −1.11 VSCE, the pure magnetite films gradually increased the thickness and decreased the surface roughness with an increase of the overpotential. The magnetite film deposited at −1.11 VSCEshowed the most thick layer and smooth surface state.
Halophilic Bacteria of Lunsu Produce an Array of Industrially Important Enzymes with Salt Tolerant Activity
Authors: Gupta Sonika , Sharma Parul , Dev Kamal , Sourirajan Anuradha
Published: January 2016

The halophilic bacterial isolates SS1, SS2, SS3, SS5, and SS8 were characterized for production of industrially important enzymes like amylase, protease, lipase, and glutaminase. Halophilic bacterial isolates SS1 and SS3 exhibited salt dependent extracellular amylase and protease activities. Both the halophilic isolates SS1 and SS3 exhibited maximum amylase and protease activities in the presence of 1.5 and 1.0 M NaCl, respectively, with the optimum pH 8 and temperature 40°C. SS2 showed maximum extracellular protease and lipase activities in the presence of 0.75 M NaCl, at optimum pH of 7, and temperature 37°C. The glutaminase activity of SS3 increased with increase in concentration of NaCl up to 2.5 M. The optimum pH and temperature for L-glutaminase activity of SS3 was 8 and 40°C, respectively. The combined hydrolytic activities of these halophilic bacterial isolates can be used for bioconversion of organic materials to useful products.