bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal Influenza Vaccination in Health Care Workers. A Pre-Post Intervention Study in an Italian Paediatric Hospital
Authors: Gilardi Francesco , Castelli Gattinara Guido , Vinci Maria Rosaria , Ciofi Degli Atti Marta , Santilli Veronica , Brugaletta Rita , Santoro Annapaola , Montanaro Rosina , Lavorato Luisa , Raponi Massimiliano , Zaffina Salvatore
Published: April 2018

Despite relevant recommendations and evidences on the efficacy of influenza vaccination in health care workers (HCWs), vaccination coverage rates in Europe and Italy currently do not exceed 25%. Aim of the study is to measure the variations in vaccination coverage rates in an Italian pediatric hospital after a promotion campaign performed in the period October–December 2017. The design is a pre-post intervention study. The intervention is based on a wide communication campaign and an expanded offer of easy vaccination on site. The study was carried out at Bambino Gesù Children’s hospital in Rome, Italy, on the whole population of HCWs. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed. Vaccination coverage rate increased in 2017/18 campaign compared with the 2016/17 one (+95 HCWs vaccinated; +4.4%). The highest increases were detected in males (+45.7%), youngest employees (+142.9%), mean age of employment (+175%), other HCWs (+209.1%), Emergency Area (+151.6%) and Imaging Diagnostic Department (+200.0%). At multivariate logistic regression, working in some departments and being nurses represents a higher risk of being unvaccinated. Although the vaccination coverage rate remained low, a continuous increase of the coverage rate and development of a different consciousness in HCWs was highlighted. The study significantly identified the target for future campaigns.
Measurement of Pesticide Residues from Chemical Control of the Invasive Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in a Maize Experimental Field in Mokwa, Nigeria
Authors: Togola Abou , Meseka Silvestro , Menkir Abebe , Badu-Apraku Baffour , Boukar Ousmane , Tamò Manuele , Djouaka Rousseau
Published: April 2018

The management of the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda in maize field necessitates the use a big quantities of insecticides and sometimes the use of multiple types and formulations of chemicals. The use of insecticides in crops is associated with environmental risks and health hazards to both producers and consumers. This study was designed to evaluate the residue of 11 insecticides that were used to control high population of the fall armyworm in maize field in Mokwa, Nigeria. Maize and soil samples were collected from an experimental field to investigate the residue level using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC, Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA, USA) analysis techniques. Results revealed the presence of five insecticide compounds (Cypermethrin, Deltamethrin, Lambda-Cyhalothrin, Permethrin, and Chorpyrifos) in soil samples with possible adverse effects on soil born organisms and other non-targeted species. In contrast, no residue was found in maize stems and seeds. From these results, we conclude that the treated maize remains safe for consumption and the producers may not get any serious risk of contamination from the chemical control of the fall armyworm.
University Students’ Willingness to Assist Fellow Students Who Experience Alcohol-Related Facial Flushing to Reduce Their Drinking
Authors: Ding Lanyan , Yuen Lok-Wa , Newman Ian M. , Shell Duane F.
Published: April 2018

This study explored bystanders’ willingness to help a friend who flushes when drinking to reduce his/her drinking. Alcohol-related facial flushing is an indicator of an inherited variant enzyme, aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), that impairs alcohol metabolism and increases drinkers’ lifetime risk of certain aerodigestive cancers. Individuals who flush should reduce their alcohol exposure, but they may continue to drink if social pressures and rules of etiquette make not drinking socially risky. The analysis used data from 2912 undergraduate students from 13 universities in southwestern, central and northeastern China from a survey asking how they respond to someone’s flushing in various scenarios. Latent class analysis grouped students by similar responses to flushing. A multinomial logistic regression explored how class membership was associated with knowledge, drinking status, and reactions to one’s own flushing. Five classes were derived from the latent class analysis, ranging from always intervene to mostly hesitate to help; in between were classes of students who were willing to help in some scenarios and hesitant in other scenarios. Only 11.6% students knew the connection between facial flushing and impaired alcohol metabolism, and knowledgeable students were somewhat more likely to assist when they saw someone flushing. In the absence of knowledge, other factors—such as drinking status, the gender of the bystander, the gender of the person who flushed, and degree of friendship with the person who flushed—determined how willing a person was to help someone reduce or stop drinking. Class membership was predicted by knowledge, gender, drinking status, and reactions to one’s own flushing. Of these 4 factors, knowledge and reactions to one’s own flushing could be influenced through alcohol education programs. It will take some time for alcohol education to catch up to and change social and cultural patterns of drinking. Meanwhile, motivational strategies should be developed to increase the willingness of bystanders to assist friends and to create a social expectation that flushers should stop or reduce their drinking.
Ecological Vulnerability Assessment Based on Fuzzy Analytical Method and Analytic Hierarchy Process in Yellow River Delta
Authors: Wu Chunsheng , Liu Gaohuan , Huang Chong , Liu Qingsheng , Guan Xudong
Published: April 2018

The Yellow River Delta (YRD), located in Yellow River estuary, is characterized by rich ecological system types, and provides habitats or migration stations for wild birds, all of which makes the delta an ecological barrier or ecotone for inland areas. Nevertheless, the abundant natural resources of YRD have brought huge challenges to the area, and frequent human activities and natural disasters have damaged the ecological systems seriously, and certain ecological functions have been threatened. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the status of the ecological environment based on scientific methods, which can provide scientifically robust data for the managers or stakeholders to adopt timely ecological protection measures. The aim of this study was to obtain the spatial distribution of the ecological vulnerability (EV) in YRD based on 21 indicators selected from underwater status, soil condition, land use, landform, vegetation cover, meteorological conditions, ocean influence, and social economy. In addition, the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) method was used to obtain the weights of the selected indicators, and a fuzzy logic model was constructed to obtain the result. The result showed that the spatial distribution of the EV grades was regular, while the fuzzy membership of EV decreased gradually from the coastline to inland area, especially around the river crossing, where it had the lowest EV. Along the coastline, the dikes had an obviously protective effect for the inner area, while the EV was higher in the area where no dikes were built. This result also showed that the soil condition and groundwater status were highly related to the EV spatially, with the correlation coefficients −0.55 and −0.74 respectively, and human activities had exerted considerable pressure on the ecological environment.
Impact of the Introduction of the Electronic Health Insurance Card on the Use of Medical Services by Asylum Seekers in Germany
Authors: Claassen Kevin , Jäger Pia
Published: April 2018

Objectives: Asylum seekers in Germany represent a highly vulnerable group from a health perspective. Furthermore, their access to healthcare is restricted. While the introduction of the Electronic Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for asylum seekers instead of healthcare-vouchers is discussed controversially using politico-economic reasons, there is hardly any empirical evidence regarding its actual impact on the use of medical services. The aim of the study is to examine this impact on the use of medical services by asylum seekers as measured by their consultation rate of ambulant physicians (CR). Study Design: For this purpose, a standardized survey was conducted with 260 asylum seekers in different municipalities, some of which have introduced the EHIC for asylum seekers, while others have not. Methods: The period prevalence was compared between the groups “with EHIC” and “without EHIC” using a two-sided t-test. Multivariate analysis was done using a linear OLS regression model. Results: Asylum seekers in possession of the EHIC are significantly more likely to seek ambulant medical care than those receiving healthcare-vouchers. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that having to ask for healthcare-vouchers at the social security office could be a relevant barrier for asylum seekers.
The Preschool-Aged and School-Aged Children Present Different Odds of Mortality than Adults in Southern Taiwan: A Cross-Sectional Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Peng Shu-Hui , Huang Chun-Ying , Hsu Shiun-Yuan , Yang Li-Hui , Hsieh Ching-Hua
Published: April 2018

Background: This study aimed to profile the epidemiology of injury among preschool-aged and school-aged children in comparison to those in adults. Methods: According to the Trauma Registry System of a level I trauma center, the medical data were retrieved from 938 preschool-aged children (aged less than seven years), 670 school-aged children (aged 7–12 years), and 16,800 adults (aged 20–64 years) between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2016. Two-sided Pearson’s, chi-squared, and Fisher’s exact tests were used to compare categorical data. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with the Games-Howell post-hoc test was used to assess the differences in continuous variables among different groups of patients. The mortality outcomes of different subgroups were assessed by a multivariable regression model under the adjustment of sex, injury mechanisms, and injury severity. Results: InFsupppjury mechanisms in preschool-aged and school-aged children were remarkably different from that in adults; in preschool-aged children, burns were the most common cause of injury requiring hospitalization (37.4%), followed by falls (35.1%) and being struck by/against objects (11.6%). In school-aged children, injuries were most commonly sustained from falls (47.8%), followed by bicycle accidents (14%) and being struck by/against objects (12.5%). Compared to adults, there was no significant difference of the adjusted mortality of the preschool-aged children (AOR = 0.9; 95% CI 0.38–2.12; p = 0.792) but there were lower adjusted odds of mortality of the school-aged children (AOR = 0.4; 95% CI 0.10–0.85; p = 0.039). The school-aged children had lower odds of mortality than adults (OR, 0.2; 95% CI, 0.06–0.74; p = 0.012), but such lower odds of risk of mortality were not found in preschool-aged children (OR, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.29–1.81; p = 0.646). Conclusions: This study suggests that specific types of injuries from different injury mechanisms are predominant among preschool-aged and school-aged children. The school-aged children had lower odds of mortality than adults; nonetheless there was no difference in mortality rates of preschool-aged children than adults, with or without controlling for sex, injury mechanisms and ISS. These results highlight the importance of injury prevention, particularly for preschool-aged children in Southern Taiwan.
Effects of Internet and Smartphone Addictions on Depression and Anxiety Based on Propensity Score Matching Analysis
Authors: Kim Yeon-Jin , Jang Hye Min , Lee Youngjo , Lee Donghwan , Kim Dai-Jin
Published: April 2018

The associations of Internet addiction (IA) and smartphone addiction (SA) with mental health problems have been widely studied. We investigated the effects of IA and SA on depression and anxiety while adjusting for sociodemographic variables. In this study, 4854 participants completed a cross-sectional web-based survey including socio-demographic items, the Korean Scale for Internet Addiction, the Smartphone Addiction Proneness Scale, and the subscales of the Symptom Checklist 90 Items-Revised. The participants were classified into IA, SA, and normal use (NU) groups. To reduce sampling bias, we applied the propensity score matching method based on genetics matching. The IA group showed an increased risk of depression (relative risk 1.207; p < 0.001) and anxiety (relative risk 1.264; p < 0.001) compared to NUs. The SA group also showed an increased risk of depression (relative risk 1.337; p < 0.001) and anxiety (relative risk 1.402; p < 0.001) compared to NCs. These findings show that both, IA and SA, exerted significant effects on depression and anxiety. Moreover, our findings showed that SA has a stronger relationship with depression and anxiety, stronger than IA, and emphasized the need for prevention and management policy of the excessive smartphone use.
Extraction of Terrain Feature Lines from Elevation Contours Using a Directed Adjacent Relation Tree
Authors: Li Chengming , Guo Peipei , Wu Pengda , Liu Xiaoli
Published: April 2018

The extraction of terrain feature lines is an important yet challenging problem in the processing and usage of contour lines. Most research has focused on identifying terrain feature points by using methods such as the Douglas–Peucker (D–P) algorithm and on determining contour adjacent relations for closed contour lines by using methods such as Delaunay triangulation and its dual Voronoi diagram, with few attempts made to address open contour lines and identify the direction of contour lines. Here, we propose a novel method for terrain feature line extraction based on adjacent relation trees. First, a contour adjacent relation tree is constructed. The tree is used to determine the directions of closed and open contour lines and thereby form a “directed adjacent relation tree” (DART). Terrain feature points are then extracted using the classic D–P algorithm, followed by the identification and connection of valley and ridge points via the aforementioned DART. Finally, integrity compensation for terrain feature lines is performed based on a slope extension algorithm. The effectiveness and accuracy of this method is verified by experimental results obtained from 1:10,000 topographic map data.
Targeting Splicing in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Antonopoulou Effrosyni , Ladomery Michael
Published: April 2018

Over 95% of human genes are alternatively spliced, expressing splice isoforms that often exhibit antagonistic functions. We describe genes whose alternative splicing has been linked to prostate cancer; namely VEGFA, KLF6, BCL2L2, ERG, and AR. We discuss opportunities to develop novel therapies that target specific splice isoforms, or that target the machinery of splicing. Therapeutic approaches include the development of small molecule inhibitors of splice factor kinases, splice isoform specific siRNAs, and splice switching oligonucleotides.
Commensal Staphylococcus aureus Provokes Immunity to Protect against Skin Infection of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Yang John-Jackson , Chang Ting-Wei , Jiang Yong , Kao Hsin-Jou , Chiou Bin-Hao , Kao Ming-Shan , Huang Chun-Ming
Published: April 2018

Unlike USA300, a strain of community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), commensal Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacteria isolated from human skin demonstrated the ability to mediate the glycerol fermentation to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Quantitative proteomic analysis of enzymes involved in glycerol fermentation demonstrated that the expression levels of six enzymes, including glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH) and phosphoglycerate mutase (PGM), in commensal S. aureus are more than three-fold higher than those in USA300. Western blotting validated the low expression levels of GPDH in USA300, MRSA252 (a strain of hospital-acquired MRSA), and invasive methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA). In the presence of glycerol, commensal S. aureus effectively suppressed the growth of USA300 in vitro and in vivo. Active immunization of mice with lysates or recombinant α-hemolysin of commensal S. aureus or passive immunization with neutralizing sera provided immune protection against the skin infection of USA300. Our data illustrate for the first time that commensal S. aureus elicits both innate and adaptive immunity via glycerol fermentation and systemic antibody production, respectively, to fight off the skin infection of pathogenic MRSA.
#europehappinessmap: A Framework for Multi-Lingual Sentiment Analysis via Social Media Big Data (A Twitter Case Study)
Authors: Coşkun Mustafa , Ozturan Meltem
Published: April 2018

The growth and popularity of social media platforms have generated a new social interaction environment thus a new collaboration and communication network among individuals. These platforms own tremendous amount of data about users’ behaviors and sentiments since people create, share or exchange their information, ideas, pictures or video using them. One of these popular platforms is Twitter, which via its voluntary information sharing structure, provides researchers data potential of benefit for their studies. Based on Twitter data, in this study a multilingual sentiment detection framework is proposed to compute European Gross National Happiness (GNH). This framework consists of a novel data collection, filtering and sampling method, and a newly constructed multilingual sentiment detection algorithm for social media big data, and tested with nine European countries (United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, Turkey, Portugal, The Netherlands, Italy, France and Spain) and their national languages over a six year period. The reliability of the data is checked with peak/troughs comparison for special days from Wikipedia news lists. The validity is checked with a group of correlation analyses with OECD Life Satisfaction survey reports’, Euro-Dollar and other currency exchanges, and national stock market time series data. After validity and reliability confirmations, the European GNH map is drawn for six years. The main problem addressed is to propose a novel multilingual social media sentiment analysis framework for calculating GNH for countries and change the way of OECD type organizations’ survey and interview methodology. Also, it is believed that this framework can serve more detailed results (e.g., daily or hourly sentiments of society in different languages).
State of the Art of X-ray Speckle-Based Phase-Contrast and Dark-Field Imaging
Authors: Zdora Marie-Christine
Published: April 2018

In the past few years, X-ray phase-contrast and dark-field imaging have evolved to be invaluable tools for non-destructive sample visualisation, delivering information inaccessible by conventional absorption imaging. X-ray phase-sensing techniques are furthermore increasingly used for at-wavelength metrology and optics characterisation. One of the latest additions to the group of differential phase-contrast methods is the X-ray speckle-based technique. It has drawn significant attention due to its simple and flexible experimental arrangement, cost-effectiveness and multimodal character, amongst others. Since its first demonstration at highly brilliant synchrotron sources, the method has seen rapid development, including the translation to polychromatic laboratory sources and extension to higher-energy X-rays. Recently, different advanced acquisition schemes have been proposed to tackle some of the main limitations of previous implementations. Current applications of the speckle-based method range from optics characterisation and wavefront measurement to biomedical imaging and materials science. This review provides an overview of the state of the art of the X-ray speckle-based technique. Its basic principles and different experimental implementations as well as the the latest advances and applications are illustrated. In the end, an outlook for anticipated future developments of this promising technique is given.
The Mixed Effects of Phonetic Input Variability on Relative Ease of L2 Learning: Evidence from English Learners’ Production of French and Spanish Stop-Rhotic Clusters
Authors: Colantoni Laura , Steele Jeffrey
Published: April 2018

We examined the consequences of within-category phonetic variability in the input on non-native learners’ production accuracy. Following previous empirical research on the L2 acquisition of phonetics and the lexicon, we tested the hypothesis that phonetic variability facilitates learning by analyzing English-speaking learners’ production of French and Spanish word-medial stop-rhotic clusters, which differ from their English counterparts in terms of stop and rhotic voicing and manner. Crucially, for both the stops and rhotics, there are differences in within-language variability. Twenty native speakers per language and 39 L1 English-learners of French (N = 20) and Spanish (N = 19) of intermediate and advanced proficiency performed a carrier-sentence reading task. A given parameter was deemed to have been acquired when the learners’ production fell within the range of attested native speaker values. An acoustic analysis of the data partially supports the facilitative effect of phonetic variability. To account for the unsupported hypotheses, we discuss a number of issues, including the difficulty of measuring variability, the need to determine the extent to which learners’ perception shapes intake, and the challenge of teasing apart the effects of input variability from those of transferred L1 articulatory patterns.
Material Characterization and Influence of Sliding Speed and Pressure on Friction and Wear Behavior of Self-Lubricating Bearing Materials for Hydropower Applications
Authors: Rodiouchkina Maria , Berglund Kim , Mouzon Johanne , Forsberg Fredrik , Ullah Shah Faiz , Rodushkin Ilia , Larsson Roland
Published: April 2018

Nowadays, hydropower plants are forced to have more frequent power control and the self-lubricated bearings used in the applications are one of the most critical components affected by the continuously changing operating conditions. In this study, microstructure and composition of two commercially available bearing materials (Orkot TXM Marine and Thordon ThorPlas) used in hydropower turbines were studied. In addition, the influence of sliding speed and applied pressure on the friction and wear behavior of the materials was investigated systematically for dry sliding conditions. The bearing materials were characterized using X-ray microtomography, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and Inductively Coupled Plasma–Sector Field Mass Spectrometry (ICP-SFMS) techniques. Friction and wear tests were carried out with a polymer pin sliding against a stainless steel (SS2333) plate with a linear reciprocating motion. Test conditions were: room temperature, 9–28 MPa pressure and 10–40 mm/s sliding speed ranges. Surface analysis of the polymer pins and the wear tracks were performed by optical profilometry, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) techniques. Test results show that, for both materials, the coefficient of friction (COF) is decreasing at higher pressures. Surface analysis reveals higher concentrations of solid lubricants in the transfer layers formed at higher pressures, explaining the decrease in COF. Furthermore, the specific wear rate coefficients are increasing at higher sliding speeds, especially at lower pressures. Results of this study demonstrate that, under dry sliding conditions, changes in sliding speed and pressure have a significant influence on the tribological behavior of these bearing materials.
Microstructure and Deformation Response of TRIP-Steel Syntactic Foams to Quasi-Static and Dynamic Compressive Loads
Authors: Ehinger David , Weise Jörg , Baumeister Joachim , Funk Alexander , Waske Anja , Krüger Lutz , Martin Ulrich
Published: April 2018

The implementation of hollow S60HS glass microspheres and Fillite 106 cenospheres in a martensitically transformable AISI 304L stainless steel matrix was realized by means of metal injection molding of feedstock with varying fractions of the filler material. The so-called TRIP-steel syntactic foams were studied with respect to their behavior under quasi-static compression and dynamic impact loading. The interplay between matrix material behavior and foam structure was discussed in relation to the findings of micro-structural investigations, electron back scatter diffraction EBSD phase analyses and magnetic measurements. During processing, the cenospheres remained relatively stable retaining their shape while the glass microspheres underwent disintegration associated with the formation of pre-cracked irregular inclusions. Consequently, the AISI 304L/Fillite 106 syntactic foams exhibited a higher compression stress level and energy absorption capability as compared to the S60HS-containing variants. The α ′ -martensite kinetic of the steel matrix was significantly influenced by material composition, strain rate and arising deformation temperature. The highest ferromagnetic α ′ -martensite phase fraction was detected for the AISI 304L/S60HS batches and the lowest for the TRIP-steel bulk material. Quasi-adiabatic sample heating, a gradual decrease in strain rate and an enhanced degree of damage controlled the mechanical deformation response of the studied syntactic foams under dynamic impact loading.
Wide Angle of Incidence-Insensitive Polarization-Independent THz Metamaterial Absorber for Both TE and TM Mode Based on Plasmon Hybridizations
Authors: Huang Xiu Tao , Lu Cong Hui , Rong Can Can , Wang Sheng Ming , Liu Ming Hai
Published: April 2018

An ultra-wide-angle THz metamaterial absorber (MA) utilizing sixteen-circular-sector (SCR) resonator for both transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) mode is designed and investigated numerically. At normal incidence, the absorptivity of the proposed MA is higher than 93.7% at 9.05 THz for different polarization angles, due to the rotational symmetry structure of the unit cell. Under oblique incidence, the absorptivity can still exceed 90%, even when the incident angle is up to 70° for both TE and TM mode. Especially, the frequency variation in TE mode is less than 0.25% for different incident angles from 0° to 70°. The electric field (Ez) distributions are used to explain the absorption mechanism. Numerical simulation results show that the high absorption with wide-angle independence stems from fundamental dipole resonance and gap surface plasmons. The broadband deep-infrared MA is also obtained by stacking three metal-dielectric layers. The designed MA has great potential in bolometric pixel elements, biomedical sensors, THz imaging, and solar cells.
Influences of Genetic Variation of Endothelin-1 Gene on Effects of 16-Week Combined Exercise on Clinical and Physical Parameters in Middle-Aged Women
Authors: Lee Jaekoo , Jung Ingeun , Kim Jaewoong , Park Yoohyun , Kang Byungyong
Published: April 2018

Background and Objective. In this study, we attempted to determine whether the C/T polymorphism of the ET-1 gene was significantly associated with changes in several clinical characteristics after the 16-week combined exercise program in overweight middle-aged women. Material and Methods. The C/T polymorphism of the ET-1 gene was assayed using polymerase chain reaction, i.e., the TaqI restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Results. The genetic variation in the ET-1 gene showed a significant association with the serum LDL cholesterol level as well as several parameters of physical fitness, including muscular endurance and power of the participants (P<0.05). In addition, this genetic variation showed a significant association with changes in muscular strength of the participants after the 16-week combined exercise program (P<0.05). Conclusions. Our data suggest that the C/T substitution on intron 4 of the ET-1 gene may be a useful genetic marker influencing muscular strength through a gene-exercise interaction and is associated with an interindividual difference of cardiovascular risk factors and parameters of physical fitness.
A Comparative Electron Microscopic Study of Bone Repair After Internal Fracture, Osteotomy, and Perforation of Rat Tibia
Authors: Hussar Piret , Hussar Ülo , Kouji Inoue , Sato Tetsuji
Published: April 2018

Background and Objective. Although previous studies have provided new information on bone repair, there are still gaps in knowledge about resorptive and formative processes during bone repair at the electron microscopic level. The aim of this study was to compare bone repair after the internal fracture, osteotomy, and bicortical perforation of the tibia by means of electron microscopy. Material and Methods. An electron microscopic study of bone repair after the internal fracture, osteotomy, and bicortical perforation of the tibia was performed on 72 male Wistar rats. Rats undergoing osteotomy and perforation were further subdivided into the control and immobilization subgroups. Bone repair was observed during the first posttraumatic weeks. Results. Although bone repair in general had similar bone healing stages in all the groups, the repair process depended on the mode and degree of injury thus being different in the experimental groups. After the internal fracture, indirect ossification was observed; after osteotomy, primary periosteal, secondary endosteal ossification was noted; and after perforation, primary endosteal, secondary periosteal ossification was documented. Immobilization had an inhibitory effect on bone repair. Conclusions. The results of the present study gave new information at the electron microscopic level about intracellular changes and intercellular matrix synthesis during different types of posttraumatic bone repair and confirmed our previous reports on similar posttraumatic bone repair in histomorphometric and immunohistochemical studies.
The Influence of Self-Stretching Based on Postisometrical Relaxation, Static Stretching Combined with Stabilizing Exercises, and Stabilizing Exercises Only on the Flexibility of One-Joint and Two-Joint Hip Flexors
Authors: Czaprowski Dariusz , Leszczewska Justyna , Kolwicz Aleksandra , Pawłowska Paulina , Kędra Agnieszka , Kriščiūnas Aleksandras , Raistenskis Juozas , Kowalski Ireneusz
Published: April 2018

Background and Objective. The limitations of muscle flexibility are a common dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system. Therefore, various therapeutic techniques are used in rehabilitation programs to increase their flexibility. The aim of this prospective, randomized, single-blind study was to evaluate the changes in the flexibility of hip flexors in children who participated in a 6-week therapeutic program consisting of one physiotherapy session per week with a physiotherapist and daily home exercises. Material and Methods. A total of 94 children aged 10–13 years were randomly assigned to 3 experimental groups: postisometrical relaxation group (PIR group), static stretching combined with stabilizing exercise group (SE/SS group), and stabilizing exercise group (SS group). To assess the flexibility of one- and two-joint hip flexors, the modified Thomas test was used. The examination was conducted by blinded observers. Results. A significant improvement in the flexibility of one-joint hip flexors was documented in all 3 groups (P<0.01). The flexibility of two-joint hip flexors increased significantly only in the SS/SE group (P<0.05). After the program, the highest range of motion of the hip extension (test for one-joint hip flexors) was recorded in the SS/SE group (20.6°±4.5°), and it was significantly greater than in the SE group (16.6°±4.0°, P<0.05). There were no significant differences in the knee flexion (test for two-joint hip flexors) among all 3 groups (P>0.05). Conclusions. The 6-week therapeutic program regardless of the technique applied (postisometrical muscle relaxation, static stretching with stabilizing exercises, and stabilizing exercises only) resulted in the increased flexibility of one-joint hip flexors. Only static stretching combined with stabilizing exercises led to a significant increase in the flexibility of two-joint hip flexors.
The Role of Adipokines in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Sharma Anirudh
Published: April 2018

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is an important cause of low back pain. Recent evidence suggests that in addition to abnormal and excessive mechanical loading, inflammation may be a key driver for both IDD and low back pain. Obesity, a known mechanical risk factor of IDD, is now increasingly being recognized as a systemic inflammatory state with adipokines being postulated as likely inflammatory mediators. The aim of this review was to summarize the current literature regarding the inflammatory role of adipokines in the pathophysiology of IDD. A systematic literature search was performed using the OVID Medline, EMBASE and PubMed databases to identify all studies assessing IDD and adipokines. Fifteen studies were included in the present review. Leptin was the most commonly assessed adipokine. Ten of 15 studies were conducted in humans; three in rats and two in both humans and rats. Studies focused on a variety of topics ranging from receptor identification, pathway analysis, genetic associations, and proteonomics. Currently, data from both human and animal experiments demonstrate significant effects of leptin and adiponectin on the internal milieu of intervertebral discs. However, future studies are needed to determine the molecular pathway relationships between adipokines in the pathophysiology of IDD as avenues for future therapeutic targets.
Mixing Performance of a 3D Micro T-Mixer with Swirl-Inducing Inlets and Rectangular Constriction
Authors: Zhang Jinxin , Luo Xiaoping
Published: April 2018

In this paper, three novel 3D micro T-mixers, namely, a micro T-mixer with swirl-inducing inlets (TMSI), a micro T-mixer with a rectangular constriction (TMRC), and a micro T-mixer with swirl-inducing inlets and a rectangular constriction (TMSC), were proposed on the basis of the original 3D micro T-mixer (OTM). The flow and mixing performance of these micromixers was numerically analyzed using COMSOL Multiphysics package at a range of Reynolds numbers from 10 to 70. Results show that the three proposed 3D micro T-mixers have achieved better mixing performance than OTM. Due to the coupling effect of two swirl-inducing inlets and a rectangular constriction, the maximum mixing index and pressure drop appeared in TMSC among the four micromixers especially; the mixing index of TMSC reaches 91.8% at Re = 70, indicating that TMSC can achieve effective mixing in a short channel length, but has a slightly higher pressure drop than TMSI and TMRC.
Particle Manipulation by Optical Forces in Microfluidic Devices
Authors: Paiè Petra , Zandrini Tommaso , Vázquez Rebeca Martínez , Osellame Roberto , Bragheri Francesca
Published: April 2018

Since the pioneering work of Ashkin and coworkers, back in 1970, optical manipulation gained an increasing interest among the scientific community. Indeed, the advantages and the possibilities of this technique are unsubtle, allowing for the manipulation of small particles with a broad spectrum of dimensions (nanometers to micrometers size), with no physical contact and without affecting the sample viability. Thus, optical manipulation rapidly found a large set of applications in different fields, such as cell biology, biophysics, and genetics. Moreover, large benefits followed the combination of optical manipulation and microfluidic channels, adding to optical manipulation the advantages of microfluidics, such as a continuous sample replacement and therefore high throughput and automatic sample processing. In this work, we will discuss the state of the art of these optofluidic devices, where optical manipulation is used in combination with microfluidic devices. We will distinguish on the optical method implemented and three main categories will be presented and explored: (i) a single highly focused beam used to manipulate the sample, (ii) one or more diverging beams imping on the sample, or (iii) evanescent wave based manipulation.
Recent Microdevice-Based Aptamer Sensors
Authors: Mazaafrianto Donny Nugraha , Maeki Masatoshi , Ishida Akihiko , Tani Hirofumi , Tokeshi Manabu
Published: April 2018

Since the systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) method was developed, aptamers have made significant contributions as bio-recognition sensors. Microdevice systems allow for low reagent consumption, high-throughput of samples, and disposability. Due to these advantages, there has been an increasing demand to develop microfluidic-based aptasensors for analytical technique applications. This review introduces the principal concepts of aptasensors and then presents some advanced applications of microdevice-based aptasensors on several platforms. Highly sensitive detection techniques, such as electrochemical and optical detection, have been integrated into lab-on-a-chip devices and researchers have moved towards the goal of establishing point-of-care diagnoses for target analyses.
Harnessing the Power of Microbiome Assessment Tools as Part of Neuroprotective Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine Interventions
Authors: Toribio-Mateas Miguel
Published: April 2018

An extensive body of evidence documents the importance of the gut microbiome both in health and in a variety of human diseases. Cell and animal studies describing this relationship abound, whilst clinical studies exploring the associations between changes in gut microbiota and the corresponding metabolites with neurodegeneration in the human brain have only begun to emerge more recently. Further, the findings of such studies are often difficult to translate into simple clinical applications that result in measurable health outcomes. The purpose of this paper is to appraise the literature on a select set of faecal biomarkers from a clinician’s perspective. This practical review aims to examine key physiological processes that influence both gastrointestinal, as well as brain health, and to discuss how tools such as the characterisation of commensal bacteria, the identification of potential opportunistic, pathogenic and parasitic organisms and the quantification of gut microbiome biomarkers and metabolites can help inform clinical decisions of nutrition and lifestyle medicine practitioners.
The Hydrothermal Breccia of Berglia-Glassberget, Trøndelag, Norway: Snapshot of a Triassic Earthquake
Authors: Müller Axel , Ganerød Morgan , Wiedenbeck Michael , Svendsen Spjelkavik Skule , Selbekk Rune
Published: April 2018

The quartz-K-feldspar-cemented breccia of Berglia-Glassberget in the Lierne municipality in central Norway forms an ellipsoid structure 250 m × 500 m in size. The hydrothermal breccia is barren in terms of economic commodities but famous among mineral collectors for being a large and rich site of crystal quartz of various colours and habits. Despite being a famous collector site, the mineralization is rather unique in respect to its geological setting. It occurs within Late Palaeoproterozoic metarhyolites of the Lower Allochthon of the Norwegian Caledonides regionally isolated from any other contemporaneous hydrothermal or magmatic event. In order to understand better the formation of the Berglia-Glassberget breccia, the chemistry, fluid inclusion petrography and age of the breccia cement were determined. Structural features indicate that the Berglia-Glassberget is a fault-related, fluid-assisted, hydraulic breccia which formed by single pulse stress released by a seismic event. 40Ar-39Ar dating of K-feldspar cement revealed a middle Triassic age (240.3 ± 0.4 Ma) for this event. The influx into the fault zone of an aqueous CO2-bearing fluid triggered the sudden fault movement. The high percentage of open space in the breccia fractures with cavities up 3 m × 3 m × 4 m in size, fluid inclusion microthermometry, and trace element chemistry of quartz suggests that the breccia was formed at depths between 4 and 0.5 km (1.1 to 0.1 kbar). The origin of the breccia-cementing, CO2-bearing Na-HCO3-SO4 fluid may have been predominantly of metamorphic origin due to decarbonation reactions (T > 200 °C) of limestones of the underlying Olden Nappe. The decarbonation reactions were initiated by deeply derived, hot fluids channelled to sub-surface levels by a major fault zone, implying that the breccia is situated on a deep-seated structure. Regionally, the Berglia-Glassberget occurs at a supposed triple junction of long-lived fault zones belonging to the Møre-Trøndelag, Lærdal-Gjende and the Kollstraumen fault complexes. These fault systems and the associated Berglia-Glassberget earthquake are the expression of rifting and faulting in northern Europe during the middle/late Triassic.
Twenty Years after the Nakhodka Oil Spill Accident in the Sea of Japan, How Has Contamination Changed?
Authors: Tazaki Kazue , Fukuyama Atsuko , Tazaki Fumie , Shintaku Yoshiaki , Nakamura Keiichi , Takehara Teruaki , Katsura Yoshihiro , Shimada Keisuke
Published: April 2018

The Nakhodka, a Russian tanker loaded with 19,000 kL of C-type heavy oil, was broken up into sections and submerged off Oki Island, Shimane Prefecture, Japan on 2 January 1997. The bow, after drifting for four days, was wrecked off Anto, Sakai City (Mikuni), Fukui Prefecture, threatening the environment throughout the various shores of Ishikawa Prefecture. The accident, caused by a heavy oil spill of 6200 kL, created serious environmental problems along the shores of Hokuriku District. We report the characterization of C-type heavy oil 20 years after the accident at the Atake seashore, Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, in the Sea of Japan, based on observations in the field on 18 January 2017. We studied the microstructure, mineralogy, chemical composition, and radioactivity associated with microorganisms in the soils, and buried fishing nets and ropes that were contaminated with C-type heavy oil from this spill. The analyses used a combination of micro techniques, analytical data based on a CHN analyzer, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and two kinds of scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). Hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria, paraffin wax, cristobalite, graphite, calcite, halite, and biotite from the Nakhodka oil spill were recognized on the surface of ropes and in the soil of the polluted seashores after 20 years. The chemical compositions indicated that high concentrations of C, O, Na, Al, Si, P, S, Ca, Fe, Cl, Sr, and Pb were predominantly indigenous to the Nakhodka oil spill. In the XRD analysis of the oil-contaminated soils on the rope at the Atake seashore indicated paraffin wax, graphite, sulfate, calcite and halite refractions with clay minerals, after 20 years. To date, no report has described the results of electron microscopy observations, such as Micrococcus bacillus and filamentous fungi, found in oil-contaminated soils after 20 years. In this research, such observations are introduced as “bioremediation” by hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria, graphite, and paraffin wax. On 18 January 2017, the reflection of graphite, paraffin wax, sulfur, calcite, and halite with clay minerals confirmed the occurrence of bioremediation. Many kinds of hydrocarbon-degrading microorganisms—such as filamentous fungi—were found in oil-contaminated soils after 20 years. We have used SEM-EDS to show semi-permanent bioremediation and biomineralization processes after 20 years.
Maternal DHA Status during Pregnancy Has a Positive Impact on Infant Problem Solving: A Norwegian Prospective Observation Study
Authors: Braarud Hanne Cecilie , Markhus Maria Wik , Skotheim Siv , Stormark Kjell Morten , Frøyland Livar , Graff Ingvild Eide , Kjellevold Marian
Published: April 2018

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6, n-3) is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid necessary for normal brain growth and cognitive development. Seafood and dietary supplements are the primary dietary sources of DHA. This study addresses the associations between DHA status in pregnant women and healthy, term-born infant problem-solving skills assessed using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire. The fatty acid status of maternal red blood cells (RBCs) was assessed in the 28th week of gestation and at three months postpartum. The infants’ fatty acid status (RBC) was assessed at three, six, and twelve months, and problem-solving skills were assessed at six and twelve months. Maternal DHA status in pregnancy was found to be positively associated with infants’ problem-solving skills at 12 months. This association remained significant even after controlling for the level of maternal education, a surrogate for socio-economic status. The infants’ DHA status at three months was associated with the infants’ problem solving at 12 months. The results accentuate the importance for pregnant and lactating women to have a satisfactory DHA status from dietary intake of seafood or other sources rich in DHA.
Ellagic Acid Alleviates Hepatic Oxidative Stress and Insulin Resistance in Diabetic Female Rats
Authors: Polce Simran , Burke Cameron , França Lucas , Kramer Benjamin , Paes Antonio Marcus de Andrade , Carrillo-Sepulveda Maria
Published: April 2018

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects more than 70% of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and has become one of the most common metabolic liver diseases worldwide. To date, treatments specifically targeting NAFLD do not exist. Oxidative stress and insulin resistance have been implicated in the pathogenesis of NAFLD in diabetes. Accordingly, the goal of this present study was to determine whether Ellagic acid (EA), a natural antioxidant polyphenol found in berries and nuts, mitigates hepatic oxidative stress and insulin resistance in T2DM rats, and thus alleviates NAFLD. Using adult female Goto Kakizaki (GK) rats, a non-obese and spontaneous model of T2DM, we found that EA treatment significantly lowered fasting blood glucose and reduced insulin resistance, as shown by a 21.8% reduction in the homeostasis model assessment index of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), while triglyceride and total cholesterol levels remained unchanged. Increased hepatic lipid accumulation and oxidative stress present in diabetic GK rats was markedly reduced with EA treatment. This effect was associated with a downregulation of the NADPH oxidase subunit, p47-phox, and overexpression of NF-E2-related factor-2 (NRF2). Moreover, EA was able to decrease the hepatic expression of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-α), a transcription factor linked to hypoxia and hepatic steatosis. We further showed that EA treatment activated an insulin signaling pathway in the liver, as evidenced by increased levels of phosphorylated Akt (Ser 473). In conclusion, our results demonstrate that EA diminishes blood glucose levels and potently suppress NAFLD in diabetic rats via mechanisms that involve reductions in p47-phox and HIF-α, upregulation of NRF2 and enhancement of the Akt signaling pathway in the liver. Together, these results reveal that EA improves hepatic insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism as a result of its antioxidant effects. This implies an anti-diabetic effect of EA with beneficial effects for the treatment of hepatic complications in T2DM.