bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CFD Analysis of Urban Canopy Flows Employing the V2F Model: Impact of Different Aspect Ratios and Relative Heights
Authors: Nardecchia Fabio , Di Bernardino Annalisa , Pagliaro Francesca , Monti Paolo , Leuzzi Giovanni , Gugliermetti Luca
Published: July 2018

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is currently used in the environmental field to simulate flow and dispersion of pollutants around buildings. However, the closure assumptions of the turbulence usually employed in CFD codes are not always physically based and adequate for all the flow regimes relating to practical applications. The starting point of this work is the performance assessment of the V2F (i.e.,v2¯ − f) model implemented in Ansys Fluent for simulating the flow field in an idealized array of two-dimensional canyons. The V2F model has been used in the past to predict low-speed and wall-bounded flows, but it has never been used to simulate airflows in urban street canyons. The numerical results are validated against experimental data collected in the water channel and compared with other turbulence models incorporated in Ansys Fluent (i.e., variations of bothk-εandk-ωmodels and the Reynolds stress model). The results show that the V2F model provides the best prediction of the flow field for two flow regimes commonly found in urban canopies. The V2F model is also employed to quantify the air-exchange rate (ACH) for a series of two-dimensional building arrangements, such as step-up and step-down configurations, having different aspect ratios and relative heights of the buildings. The results show a clear dependence of the ACH on the latter two parameters and highlight the role played by the turbulence in the exchange of air mass, particularly important for the step-down configurations, when the ventilation associated with the mean flow is generally poor.
The Combined Effect of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Metabolic Syndrome on Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Females in Eastern China
Authors: Chen Da-Zhi , Xu Qiao-Mai , Wu Xiao-Xin , Cai Chao , Zhang Ling-Jian , Shi Ke-Qing , Shi Hong-Ying , Li Lan-Juan
Published: July 2018

The present study evaluated the potential combined effects of NAFLD and MetS on the development of osteoporosis. The relationship between NAFLD and MetS and osteoporosis was assessed in 938 postmenopausal female participants. Moderate and severe NAFLDs were combined as significant NAFLD (SNAFLD). All the subjects were divided into 4 subgroups based on the status of SNAFLD and MetS. Relative excess risk of interaction (RERI), attributable proportion (AP) of interaction, and synergy index (SI) were used to investigate the additive interaction of those two factors. NAFLD, SNAFLD, and MetS were independent factors for osteoporosis with the adjustment of age and other confounders. The incidence of osteoporosis in MetS (+) SNAFLD (+) group was significantly higher than that in other three groups. RERI was 2.556 (95% CI = 0.475–4.636), AP was 0.454 (95% CI = 0.201–0.706), and SI was 2.231 (95% CI = 1.124 to 4.428), indicating the significant combined interaction of SNAFLD and MetS on the development of osteoporosis. SNAFLD and MetS are independent risk factors for osteoporosis in postmenopausal females, respectively. Moreover, SNAFLD and MetS have an additive effect on the development of osteoporosis.
Russell Bodies and Russell Body Inflammatory Polyp in the Colorectum: A Review of Clinicopathologic Features
Authors: Reinhard Heidi , Karamchandani Dipti M.
Published: July 2018

Colorectal mucosa with Russell bodies is a reactive inflammatory lesion composed of mature plasma cells, known as Mott cells which contain multiple intracytoplasmic eosinophilic globules. To the best of our knowledge, 3 case reports of colorectal Russell body containing lesions have been reported in the English literature (searched from 1980 to date), including just one case report of Colonic Russell body inflammatory polyp. Their importance lies in being aware of this unusual entity, recognizing it as well as the clinical scenario in which this typically arises and differentiating it from its malignant mimics that come in the histologic differential. This review discusses the clinical and endoscopic presentation, histopathologic features, ancillary studies, pathogenesis, differential diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of this rare lesion.
Reliability-Based Estimation of Traffic Interruption Probability due to Road Waterlogging
Authors: Contreras-Jara Manuel , Echaveguren Tomás , Vargas Baecheler José , Chamorro Giné Alondra , de Solminihac Tampier Hernán
Published: July 2018

Floods affect road infrastructure physically and operationally, increase road user costs and road agencies cost, and eventually isolate communities. The research of the effect of floods on vehicular circulation is mainly focused on the stability of vehicles. There are few studies related to the regime of still water in the trafficability. In still water, the speed flow is low and does not compromise the vehicle stability. In this case, the vehicle’s wading height becomes relevant. This article proposes a procedure to estimate the traffic interruption probability caused by floods in roads, considering the still water regime. The procedure uses the first-order reliability method to estimate traffic interruption probabilities, based on the difference between the probability density functions (PDF) of still water depth (or waterlogging depth) and vehicle wading height. A specific procedure to estimate the PDF of wading height based in the geometric characteristics of light and heavy vehicles was developed. The PDF for water depth was estimated using water level profile simulation software. The procedure was applied in the south of Chile. The PDF of wading height was obtained from a record of 166,155 vehicles tagged in open road tolls. The PDF of waterlogging depth was obtained from discharge records of 10 fluviometric stations. 42 probability curves were obtained for six vehicle classes and return periods between 4 and 500 years. The still water depth obtained for traffic interruption probability of 1,0 varied between 70 and 90 cm for light vehicles and between 110 and 150 cm for heavy vehicles.
Management Practice, and Adherence and Its Contributing Factors among Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital: A Hospital Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kefale Belayneh , Tadesse Yewondwossen , Alebachew Minyahil , Engidawork Ephrem
Published: July 2018

The objective of this study was to assess the management practice, medication adherence, and factors affecting medication adherence in CKD patients at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH).Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the nephrology clinic of TASH. A total of 256 CKD (stages 1 and 2=50, stage 3=88, stage 4=55, and stage 5=63) patients were recruited through systematic random sampling. Data were collected from medical records and interviewing patients. The rate of adherence was determined using 8-item Morisky medication adherence scale. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 statistical software. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression were used to investigate the potential predictors of medication nonadherence.Results. About 57.3% of diabetes mellitus with hypertension were treated with combination of insulin and ACEI based regimens. Other cardiovascular comorbidities were predominantly treated with Acetyl Salicylic Acid in combination withβ-blocker. Only 61.3% (stages 1 and 2=70%, stage 3=73.9%, stage 4=54.5%, and stage 5=43%) of the study population were adherent to their treatment regimens. Forgetfulness (79.8%) was the major reason for medication nonadherence. Patients who had an average and high monthly income were 4.14 (AOR=4.14, 95% CI: 1.45-11.84, p=0.008) and 6.17 times (AOR=6.17, 95% CI: 1.02-37.46, p=0.048) more likely to adhere as compared to those who had very low income. Patients who were prescribed with ≥5 drugs were 0.46 times (AOR= 0.54, 95% CI: 0.27-1.10, p=0.049) less likely to adhere compared to their counterpart. Patients who were students, drivers, or teachers working in private school were about 7.46 times (AOR=7.46, 95% CI: 1.49-37.26, p=0.014) more likely to adhere compared with patients who were farmers.Conclusion. Insulin and ACEIs based regimens were the most frequently used regimens in the treatment of diabetes mellitus and hypertension comorbidities. Very low income, increased number of prescribed medications, and being a farmer were the predictors of medication nonadherence.
Acupuncture and Related Therapies for Treatment of Postoperative Ileus in Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Liu Yihong , May Brian H. , Zhang Anthony Lin , Guo Xinfeng , Lu Chuanjian , Xue Charlie Changli , Zhang Haibo
Published: July 2018

Delays in recovery of intestinal function following abdominal surgery are associated with longer hospital stays, increased postoperative complications, and higher costs to the health care system. Studies of acupuncture for postoperative ileus and other postoperative issues have reported improvements. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to assess whether acupuncture assisted recovery following surgery for colorectal cancer (CRC). Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified from major English and Chinese language biomedical databases. Participants (aged 18 years plus) had received surgical resection for CRC. 22 studies (1,628 participants) were included. Five were sham‐controlled. Outcomes included gastrointestinal function recovery (21 studies), recovery of urinary function (1 study), postoperative abdominal distension (3 studies), and quality of life (1 study). Meta‐analyses found significant reductions in time to first bowel sounds, first flatus, and first defecation in both the sham‐controlled and nonblinded studies. These results suggested that the addition of acupuncture following CRC surgery improved recovery of gastrointestinal function based on four blinded good quality RCTs (281 participants) and 17 nonblinded lower quality RCTs (1,265 participants). The best available evidence was for interventions that included electroacupuncture at the point ST36 Zusanli and there is supporting evidence for other types of acupuncture therapies that involve stimulation of this point. This review is registered with the following: systematic review registration in PROSPERO: CRD42017079590.
Thermodynamic Properties and Anharmonic Effects in XAFS Based on Anharmonic Correlated Debye Model Debye–Waller Factors
Authors: Ba Duc Nguyen , Van Hung Nguyen , Dang Khoa Ha , Quoc Vuong Dinh , Sy Tien Tong
Published: July 2018

Thermodynamic properties and anharmonic effects in X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) have been studied based on the anharmonic correlated Debye model Debye–Waller factors presented in terms of cumulant expansion. The derived analytical expressions of three first XAFS cumulants involve more information on phonon‐phonon interactions taken from integration over the first Brillouin zone. Many‐body effects are taken into account in the present one‐dimensional model based on the first shell near neighbor contributions to the vibrations between absorber and backscatterer atoms. Morse potential is assumed to describe single‐pair atomic interaction included in the derived anharmonic interatomic effective potential. The present theory can be applied to any crystal structure including complex systems. Numerical results for Cu and Ni are found to be in good agreement with experiment and with those of the other theories.
Multidevice Authentication with Strong Privacy Protection
Authors: Hajny Jan , Dzurenda Petr , Malina Lukas
Published: July 2018

Card‐based physical access control systems are used by most people on a daily basis, for example, at work, in public transportation, or at hotels. Yet these systems have often very poor cryptographic protection. User identifiers and keys can be easily eavesdropped on and counterfeited. The privacy‐preserving features are almost missing in these systems. To improve this state, we propose a novel cryptographic scheme based on efficient zero‐knowledge proofs and Boneh‐Boyen signatures. The proposed scheme is provably secure and provides the full set of privacy‐enhancing features, that is, the anonymity, untraceability, and unlinkability of users. Furthermore, our scheme supports distributed multidevice authentication with multiple RFID (Radio‐Frequency IDentification) user devices. This feature is particularly important in applications for controlling access to dangerous sites where the presence of protective equipment is checked during each access control session. Besides the full cryptographic specification, we also show the results of our implementation on devices commonly used in access control applications, particularly the smart cards and embedded verification terminals. By avoiding costly operations on user devices, such as bilinear pairings, we were able to achieve times comparable to existing systems (around 500 ms), while providing significantly higher security, privacy protection, and features for RFID multidevice authentication.
Adiponectin, Omentin, Ghrelin, and Visfatin Levels in Obese Patients with Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Zhang Dong-mei , Pang Xing-long , Huang Rong , Gong Feng-ying , Zhong Xu , Xiao Yi
Published: July 2018

Objectives. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is closely associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation. Adiponectin, omentin, ghrelin, and visfatin are adipokines involved in insulin sensitivity or regulation of inflammatory disease. This study aims to clarify the relationship between OSA and associated adipokines. Patients and Methods. Thirty overweight male patients with severe OSA and twenty controls underwent standard diagnostic polysomnography (PSG), and 10 patients underwent overnight continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment. Blood samples were collected in the morning after PSG or CPAP procedures. Results. Among the investigated adipokines, only plasma omentin levels of patients with OSA were significantly lower than those of control subjects (442.94 ± 191.89 ng/ml versus 573.52±228.67 ng/ml, p=0.034) and levels did not change after CPAP treatment. In patients with OSA, omentin levels were positively correlated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) levels (r=0.378, p=0.007), adiponectin levels (r=0.709, p<0.001), percentage of sleep at the rapid eye movement (REM) stage (r=0.307, p=0.003), and average and minimum SpO2 (p=0.041, 0.046, respectively) and negatively with hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP, r=-0.379, p=0.007) and apnea-hypopnea index (AHI, r=-0.315, p=0.026). However, plasma concentrations of adiponectin, ghrelin, and visfatin in patients with OSA did not significantly differ from those of the control or correlate with sleep parameters and CPAP treatment. Conclusions. Patients with OSA have decreased omentin levels, which are associated with sleep parameters, including AHI, SpO2, percentage of REM sleep, hsCRP, HDL, and adiponectin levels.
Vehicle Relocation Triggering Thresholds Determination in Electric Carsharing System under Stochastic Demand
Authors: Ma Wanjing , Wang Lei , Li Lin
Published: July 2018

Vehicle unbalance usually occurs in multistation electric carsharing systems. Threshold triggering method is one of the most practicable approaches for vehicle relocation, while determination of thresholds has not been sufficiently studied particularly for electric carsharing system. This paper presents an approach on determining the thresholds considering the stochastic demands and system states. Firstly, we establish a state transition model involving the stochastic variables to capture the dynamics of the number and battery status of vehicles as well as the traffic demands. Consequently, a dual-objective optimization model was developed to determine the proper values of thresholds. The solution algorithm employed the min–max robust optimization to tackle the uncertainty and the Pareto optimum to decide the solution under dual objectives. To test the distribution stochastic variables, we involve the orders data and the supplementary user survey. Comparison is conducted among three methods: the empirical rules, the deterministic method, and the stochastic method, where the results suggest that the stochastic method achieves better solutions on the dual objectives under stochastic demands.
Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator to Treat Deep Infrabony Defects: A New Flapless Minimally Invasive Approach
Authors: Ghezzi Carlo , Donghi Camilla , Ferrantino Luca , Varoni Elena , Lodi Giovanni
Published: July 2018

The primary outcome of the present study was to assess the percentage of pocket closure, and the secondary aim was to evaluate the clinical performance in terms of clinical attachment level (CAL) gain, probing pocket depth (PPD) reduction, and gingival recession (REC) after the use of cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator (CUSA) in deep infrabony defects. Fourteen deep infrabony defects in 11 patients who were previously treated with active periodontal therapy followed by one year of supportive periodontal therapy (at least three sessions) were additionally treated by the aid of CUSA. Eighty-six percent of the initial defects (12 out of 14) resulted in a PD < 5 mm, showing complete resolution six months after CUSA treatment, without any adverse event and with negligible pain (VAS from 0 to 3). CUSA showed potential as a method to promote pocket healing, reduce PPD, and increase clinical attachment (P<0.001) in deep infrabony defects. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03567161.
Circulating PGRN Levels Are Increased but Not Associated with Insulin Sensitivity or β-Cell Function in Chinese Obese Children
Authors: Wang Fengyun , Chen Ting , Sun Ling , Lv Haitao , Li Xuan , Shen Jie , Chen Linqi , Chu Zhenyu , Hou Miao
Published: July 2018

Progranulin (PGRN), a novel peptide that has recently emerged as an important regulatory adipokine, is relevant to energy homeostasis and obesity in animals and adult humans. Little is known about its roles in children. The aim of the current study was to determine the potential role of PGRN and explore its relationship to various obesity-related markers in obese children. This was a cross-sectional study composed of 77 children (43 obese and 34 healthy, age 8.68 ± 0.28 and 8.46 ± 0.45 years, resp.). The PGRN levels were significantly higher in obese children (102.44 ± 4.18 ng/mL) comparing to controls (69.32 ± 5.49 ng/mL) (P<0.05). Moreover, the PGRN levels were positively correlated with triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), IL-6, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in obese children after adjusted for BMI and age. However, there was no correlation of serum PGRN levels with OGTT-derived dynamic parameters, HOMA-IR, or HOMA-β in obese children. The results suggest that serum PGRN levels are significantly higher in obese children in China and correlate significantly with obesity-related markers. Increased PGRN levels may be involved in the pathological mechanism of childhood obesity.
The Drug Developments of Hydrogen Sulfide on Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Wen Ya-Dan , Wang Hong , Zhu Yi-Zhun
Published: July 2018

The recognition of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been evolved from a toxic gas to a physiological mediator, exhibiting properties similar to NO and CO. On the one hand, H2S is produced from L‐cysteine by enzymes of cystathionine γ‐lyase (CSE) and cystathionine β‐synthase (CBS), 3‐mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3MST) in combination with aspartate aminotransferase (AAT) (also called as cysteine aminotransferase, CAT); on the other hand, H2S is produced from D‐cysteine by enzymes of D‐amino acid oxidase (DAO). Besides sulfide salt, several sulfide‐releasing compounds have been synthesized, including organosulfur compounds, Lawesson’s reagent and analogs, and plant‐derived natural products. Based on garlic extractions, we synthesized S‐propargyl‐L‐cysteine (SPRC) and its analogs to contribute our endeavors on drug development of sulfide‐containing compounds. A multitude of evidences has presented H2S is widely involved in the roles of physiological and pathological process, including hypertension, atherosclerosis, angiogenesis, and myocardial infarcts. This review summarizes current sulfide compounds, available H2S measurements, and potential molecular mechanisms involved in cardioprotections to help researchers develop further applications and therapeutically drugs.
Adrenal Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients following Liver Resection or Liver Transplantation: Experience from a Tertiary Referral Center
Authors: Teegen Eva M. , Mogl Martina T. , Pratschke Johann , Rayes Nada
Published: July 2018

Introduction. Adrenal metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a rare entity and can be treated by resection, local ablative therapy, or systemic therapy. Unfortunately, data about treatment outcome, especially in liver transplant recipients, are rare. Patients and Methods. From 2005 to 2015, 990 liver resections and 303 liver transplantations because of HCC were performed at our clinic. We retrospectively analyzed treatment outcome of the patients with metachronous adrenal metastasis of HCC, who received either resection, local ablation, or surveillance only. Results. 10 patients were identified (0.8%). 7 patients received liver transplantation for primary HCC therapy, 3 liver resection, and 1 a local ablative therapy. 8 patients underwent adrenalectomy (one via retroperitoneoscopy), one was treated with local ablation, and one had surveillance only. Seven out of eight patients had no surgical complications and one experienced a pancreatic fistula, treated conservatively. 37.5% of the resected patients had recurrence 1 year after adrenalectomy and 75% after 2 years. The mean survival time after primary diagnosis of HCC was 96.6±22.4 months. After adrenalectomy, the mean survival time was 112.4±25.2 months. The mean time until tumor recurrence was 13.2±3.8 in the total cohort and 15.8±3.8 months in patients after adrenalectomy. The estimated overall survival after adrenalectomy was 77.2±17.4 months. Conclusion. Metachronous adrenal metastasis occured in less than 1% of HCC patients. Adrenalectomy is a safe procedure and leads to acceptable survival rates even after liver transplantion. Therefore, it should be performed whenever the primary tumor is well controlled and the patient is in adequate physical condition.
Dynamic OFDM Transmission for a Cognitive Radio Device Based on a Neural Network and Multiresolution Analysis
Authors: Rodriguez-Colina Enrique , Hernandez Cesar A. , Pedraza Luis Fernando , Prieto-Guerrero Alfonso , Lopez-Guerrero Miguel
Published: August 2018

Cognitive radio communications depend on methods for sensing the spectrum as well as adapting transmission parameters to available resources. In this context, this work proposes a novel system that makes use of prediction to dynamically allocate subcarriers to different transmissions in an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) system. To this end, the proposal is comprised of a predictive component which makes use of a neural network and multiresolution analysis and a second component, which uses wavelet analysis and cognitive radio functions to carry out a dynamic allocation of subcarriers in an OFDM system. The use of wavelets allows the system to split the data stream in blocks of information to be transmitted over multiple orthogonal subcarriers. This proposed system makes use of the decision‐making functions of a cognitive radio device to select the number and position of the subcarriers used for communications without interference. Although there exist other OFDM systems using wavelets, they are not used in combination with the decision‐making functions implemented in cognitive radio devices. In contrast, the proposed OFDM system operates using some of these functions, thus being able to better adapt its operational parameters. The use of wavelets combined with a neural network model improves the prediction of the bandwidth utilization as shown in this work. It is concluded that the proposed system improves spectral efficiency and data rate by using the decision‐making functions of cognitive radios to select the appropriate OFDM subcarriers to be used during the data transmissions.
Hip Arthroscopic Resection of an Intra-Articular Fibroma of the Tendon Sheath
Authors: Korcek Lucas , Hoch Benjamin , Richter Dustin
Published: July 2018

Fibroma of the tendon sheath most often presents around small joints and involves the tendon and tendon sheaths of the fingers, hands, and wrist. In rare instances, it presents as an intra-articular mass. It has never been described in the hip joint. In the current case presentation, this benign tumor was found to be the source of a patient’s atypical severe hip pain. Arthroscopic resection of this tumor alleviated the patient’s pain.
A Proposal for an Intermediate Care Unit-Quality Measurement Framework
Authors: Plate Joost D. J. , Peelen Linda M. , Leenen Luke P. H. , Houwert Roderick M. , Hietbrink Falco
Published: July 2018

Rationale,Aims,and Objectives. The Intermediate Care Unit (IMCU) is a hospital unit which is logistically situated between the hospital ward and the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). There is debate regarding the value of the IMCU. Understanding its value is compromised by the lack of adequate quality indicators. Therefore, this study identifies currently used IMCU indicators and evaluates their usefulness.Methods. Through a systematic literature search, currently used quality indicators were identified and evaluated for their importance using a proposed IMCU-specific quality measurement framework.Results. From 4034 titles and abstracts, 168 articles were selected for full-text review. Of these, 22 articles were included, which reported IMCU quality at the level of the IMCU (n = 12), the ICU (n = 5), both IMCU and ICU (n = 3) or hospital level (n = 2). At the IMCU, the IMCU mortality (n = 16), discharge-to-ICU rate (n = 7), in-hospital IMCU mortality (n = 7), and length of stay (n = 6) were most frequently reported. Three studies compared the effect of different structures of the IMCU on its utilization or hospital outcome.Conclusions. Current focus in IMCU quality research is towards measuring quality at the IMCU itself. Since the influence of the structure of IMCUs on its utilization and its effects on hospital outcome are only rarely investigated, attention should shift towards these important issues in further research. The proposed IMCU quality measurement framework can thereby serve as a helpful tool.
Role of Adiponectin in Central Nervous System Disorders
Authors: Bloemer Jenna , Pinky Priyanka D. , Govindarajulu Manoj , Hong Hao , Judd Robert , Amin Rajesh H. , Moore Timothy , Dhanasekaran Muralikrishnan , Reed Miranda N. , Suppiramaniam Vishnu
Published: July 2018

Adiponectin, the most abundant plasma adipokine, plays an important role in the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism. Adiponectin also possesses insulin-sensitizing, anti-inflammatory, angiogenic, and vasodilatory properties which may influence central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Although initially not thought to cross the blood-brain barrier, adiponectin enters the brain through peripheral circulation. In the brain, adiponectin signaling through its receptors, AdipoR1 and AdipoR2, directly influences important brain functions such as energy homeostasis, hippocampal neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity. Overall, based on its central and peripheral actions, recent evidence indicates that adiponectin has neuroprotective, antiatherogenic, and antidepressant effects. However, these findings are not without controversy as human observational studies report differing correlations between plasma adiponectin levels and incidence of CNS disorders. Despite these controversies, adiponectin is gaining attention as a potential therapeutic target for diverse CNS disorders, such as stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, and depression. Evidence regarding the emerging role for adiponectin in these disorders is discussed in the current review.
Taurine Attenuates Calpain‐2 Induction and a Series of Cell Damage via Suppression of NOX‐Derived ROS in ARPE‐19 Cells
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Ren Shu , Gu Yanting , Wang Jiahong , Liu Zheng , Zhang Zhou
Published: July 2018

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidases (NOXs) are key transmembrane proteins leading to reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction. However, the detailed roles of NOXs in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell metabolic stress induced by Earle’s balanced salt solution (EBSS) through starvation remain unclear. In this study, we investigated what roles NOXs play in regard to calpain activity, endoplasmic stress (ER), autophagy, and apoptosis during metabolic stress in ARPE‐19 cells. We first found that EBSS induced an increase in NOX2, NOX4, p22phox, and NOX5 compared to NOX1. Secondly, suppression of NOXs resulted in reduced ER stress and autophagy, decreased ROS generation, and alleviated cell apoptosis. Thirdly, silencing of NOX4, NOX5, and p22phox resulted in reduced levels of cell damage. However, silencing of NOX1 was unaffected. Finally, taurine critically mediated NOXs in response to EBSS stress. In conclusion, this study demonstrated for the first time that NOX oxidases are the upstream regulators of calpain‐2, ER stress, autophagy, and apoptosis. Furthermore, the protective effect of taurine is mediated by the reduction of NOX‐derived ROS, leading to sequential suppression of calpain induction, ER stress, autophagy, and apoptosis.
The Impact of Living with Parkinson’s Disease: Balancing within a Web of Needs and Demands
Authors: Sjödahl Hammarlund Catharina , Westergren Albert , Åström Ingrid , Edberg Anna-Karin , Hagell Peter
Published: July 2018

This study explores the impact of living with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Nineteen persons (11 women) aged 55–84 diagnosed with PD 3–27 years ago participated. Data were collected through semistructured interviews, which were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed by qualitative content analysis. Four categories represented the impact of living with PD: “Changed prerequisites for managing day-to-day demands,” “Loss of identity and dignity,” “Compromised social participation,” and “The use of practical and psychological strategies.” There was a shift from an internal to an external locus of control in managing, control, competence, relatedness, and autonomy. According to self-determination theory, a shift towards extrinsically motivated behaviours may occur when these basic needs are thwarted, leading to compensatory strategies or needs substitutes with negative consequences on health and well-being. We suggest a needs-based approach as an important starting point to better understand the consequences of living with PD and to explore the means for people with PD to acquire an improved quality of life on their own terms. In conclusion, our findings suggest for a shift in focus, from a biomedical to a needs-based approach to understand the impact of living with PD and facilitate more person-centred care and person-centred outcome measurement.
Profound Hypokalaemia Resulting in Maternal Cardiac Arrest: A Catastrophic Complication of Hyperemesis Gravidarum?
Authors: Walch Anna , Duke Madeline , Auty Travis , Wong Audris
Published: July 2018

We present a case of a 39-year-old G8P6 Pacific Islander woman who at 15+5 weeks’ gestation had an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest secondary to profound hypokalaemia which was associated with severe hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). Her clinical course after arrest was complicated by a second 5-minute cardiac arrest in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) (pre-arrest potassium 1.8), anuric renal failure requiring dialysis, ischaemic hepatitis, and encephalopathy and unfortunately fetal demise and a spontaneous miscarriage on day 2 of admission. Despite these complications, she was discharged home 4 weeks later with a full recovery. Following a plethora of inpatient and outpatient investigations, the cause of her cardiac arrest was determined to be profound hypokalaemia. The hypokalaemia was presumed second to a perfect storm of HG with subsequent nutritional deficiencies causing electrolyte wasting, extracellular fluid (ECF) volume reduction, and activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis (RAAS). This combined with the physiological changes that promote potassium wasting in pregnancy including volume expansion, increased renal blood flow, increased glomerular filtration rate, and increase in cortisol contributed to the patient having a profoundly low total body potassium level. This diagnosis is further strengthened by the fact that her pre- and post-pregnancy potassium levels were within normal limits in the absence of supplementary potassium. This case highlights the potentially life-threatening electrolyte imbalances that can occur with HG and the importance of recognising the disease, comprehensive electrolyte monitoring, and aggressive management in pregnancy.
Evaluation of CMIP5 Global Climate Models over the Volta Basin: Precipitation
Authors: Agyekum Jacob , Annor Thompson , Lamptey Benjamin , Quansah Emmannuel , Agyeman Richard Yao Kuma
Published: July 2018

A selected number of global climate models (GCMs) from the fifth Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) were evaluated over the Volta Basin for precipitation. Biases in models were computed by taking the differences between the averages over the period (1950–2004) of the models and the observation, normalized by the average of the observed for the annual and seasonal timescales. The Community Earth System Model, version 1-Biogeochemistry (CESM1-BGC), the Community Climate System Model Version 4 (CCSM4), the Max Planck Institute Earth System Model, Medium Range (MPI-ESM-MR), the Norwegian Earth System Model (NorESM1-M), and the multimodel ensemble mean were able to simulate the observed climatological mean of the annual total precipitation well (average biases of 1.9% to 7.5%) and hence were selected for the seasonal and monthly timescales. Overall, all the models (CESM1-BGC, CCSM4, MPI-ESM-MR, and NorESM1-M) scored relatively low for correlation (<0.5) but simulated the observed temporal variability differently ranging from 1.0 to 3.0 for the seasonal total. For the annual cycle of the monthly total, the CESM1-BGC, the MPI-ESM-MR, and the NorESM1-M were able to simulate the peak of the observed rainy season well in the Soudano-Sahel, the Sahel, and the entire basin, respectively, while all the models had difficulty in simulating the bimodal pattern of the Guinea Coast. The ensemble mean shows high performance compared to the individual models in various timescales.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Marfan Syndrome and Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Authors: Inayet N. , Hayat J. O. , Kaul A. , Tome M. , Child A. , Poullis A.
Published: July 2018

Objective. Marfan syndrome (MS) is a multisystem disorder caused by a mutation in FBN1 gene. It shares some phenotypic features with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) such as joint hypermobility. EDS is a group of inherited heterogenous multisystem disorders characterized by skin hyperextensibility, atrophic scarring, joint hypermobility, and generalized tissue fragility. Hypermobile EDS (hEDS) is thought to be the most common type. Recent studies have suggested an association between connective tissue hypermobility and functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGDs). The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with Marfan syndrome and hypermobile EDS. Method. Patients with a diagnosis of either MS or hEDS attending cardiology or rheumatology outpatients at our hospital were asked to complete SF36 RAND and Rome IV Diagnostic questionnaires. Questionnaires were also completed by patients who are members of Marfan Association UK. The same questionnaires were also completed by age- and gender-matched controls attending fracture clinic without existing diagnoses of MS or hEDS. Results. Data were collected from 45 MS patients (12 males and 33 females, age range 19–41 years, mean 28 years) and 45 hEDS patients (6 males and 39 females, age range 18–32 years, mean 24 years). None had a previous organic gastrointestinal diagnosis. The control group was matched for age and sex (18 males and 72 females, age range 18–45, mean 29 years). Both MS and hEDS groups showed a higher prevalence of abdominal symptoms compared to the control group; however, the hEDS group not only showed a higher prevalence but more frequent and severe symptoms meeting Rome IV criteria for diagnosis of FGIDs. Nearly half of the hEDS patients met the criteria for more than one FGID. The hEDS group also scored lower on quality of life (QOL) scores in comparison to either of the other groups with a mean score of 48.6 as compared to 54.2 in the Marfan group and 78.6 in the control group. Conclusion. FGIDs are reported in both Marfan syndrome and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome but appear to be more common and severe in hEDS. These patients score lower on quality of life scores as well despite hypermobility being a common feature of both conditions. Further work is needed to understand the impact of connective tissue disorders on gastrointestinal symptoms.
Exploring the Neuroplastic Effects of Biofeedback Training on Smokers
Authors: Pandria Niki , Athanasiou Alkinoos , Terzopoulos Nikos , Paraskevopoulos Evangelos , Karagianni Maria , Styliadis Charis , Kourtidou-Papadeli Chrysoula , Pataka Athanasia , Lymperaki Evgenia , Bamidis Panagiotis D.
Published: July 2018

Smoking and stress cooccur in different stages of a nicotine addiction cycle, affecting brain function and showing additive impact on different physiological responses. Resting-state functional connectivity has shown potential in identifying these alterations. Nicotine addiction has been associated with detrimental effects on functional integrity of the central nervous system, including the organization of resting-state networks. Prolonged stress may result in enhanced activation of the default mode network (DMN). Considering that biofeedback has shown promise in alleviating physiological manifestations of stress, we aimed to explore the possible neuroplastic effects of biofeedback training on smokers. Clinical, behavioral, and neurophysiological (resting-state EEG) data were collected from twenty-seven subjects before and after five sessions of skin temperature training. DMN functional cortical connectivity was investigated. While clinical status remained unaltered, the degree of nicotine dependence and psychiatric symptoms were significantly improved. Significant changes in DMN organization and network properties were not observed, except for a significant increase of information flow from the right ventrolateral prefrontal cortex and right temporal pole cortex towards other DMN components. Biofeedback aiming at stress alleviation in smokers could play a protective role against maladaptive plasticity of connectivity. Multiple sessions, individualized interventions and more suitable methods to promote brain plasticity, such as neurofeedback training, should be considered.
Epi-Off versus Epi-On Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking in Keratoconus Patients: A Comparative Study through 2-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Cifariello F. , Minicucci M. , Di Renzo F. , Di Taranto D. , Coclite G. , Zaccaria S. , De Turris S. , Costagliola C.
Published: July 2018

Aim. To evaluate two different techniques of cross-linking: standard epithelium-off (CXL epi-off) versus transepithelial (CXL epi-on) cross-linking in patient with progressive keratoconus.Methods. Forty eyes from 32 patients with progressive keratoconus were prospectively enrolled from June 2014 to June 2015 in this nonblinded, randomized comparative study. Twenty eyes were treated by CXL epi-off and 20 by CLX epi-on, randomly assigned, and followed for 2 years. All patients underwent a complete ophthalmologic testing that included uncorrected and best corrected visual acuity, central and peripheral corneal thickness, corneal astigmatism, simulated maximum, minimum, and average keratometry, corneal confocal microscopy, Schirmer I and break-up time (BUT) tests, and the Ocular Surface Disease Index. Intra- and postoperative complications were recorded. The solution used for CXL epi-off comprised riboflavin 0.1% and dextran 20.0% (Ricrolin), whereas the solution for CXL epi-on (Ricrolin TE) comprised riboflavin 0.1%, dextran 15.0%, trometamol (Tris), and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. Ultraviolet-A treatment was performed with a UV-X system at 3 mW/cm2.Results. In both groups, a significant improvement in visual function (Group 1: baseline 0.36 ± 0.16 logMAR, two-year follow-up 0.22 ± 0.17 logMAR,p=0.01; Group 2: baseline 0.32 ± 0.18 logMAR, 2-year follow-up 0.27 ± 0.19 logMAR,p=0.01) was recorded. Keratometry remained unchanged in both groups. The mean corneal thickness showed a significant reduction (mean difference of corneal thickness: −55 micron and −71 micron, resp.). One-month after treatment, OSDI©reached 13.56 ± 2.15 in Group 1 (p=0.03) and 11.26 ± 2.12 in Group 2 (p=0.04). At confocal microscopy, abnormal corneal nerve alterations were found in both groups. Fibrotic reaction (43.75%) and activated keratocyte (62.6%) were more commonly recorded in Group 1 than in Group 2 (25.0% and 18.75%), withp=0.668and 0.356, respectively.Conclusion. Our findings demonstrate that both procedures are able to slow keratoconus progression. Both treatment modalities are equivalent in terms of results and related complications. CXL epi-on technique is preferable to CXL epi-off since it preserves the corneal thickness and improves visual acuity, also reducing the postoperative ocular discomfort during the study period.
Robust Local Stabilization of Discrete-Time Systems with Time-Varying State Delay and Saturating Actuators
Authors: Silva J. V. V. , Silva L. F. P. , Rubio Scola I. , Leite V. J. S.
Published: July 2018

The robust local stabilization of uncertain discrete-time systems with time-varying state delayed and subject to saturating actuators is investigated in this work. A convex optimization method is proposed to compute robust state feedback control law such that the uncertain closed-loop is locally asymptotically stable if the initial condition belongs to an estimate of the region of attraction for the origin. The proposed procedure allows computing estimates of the region of attraction through the intersection of ellipsoidal sets in an augmented space, reducing the conservatism of the estimates found in the literature. Also, the conditions can handle the amount of delay variation between two consecutive samples, which is new in the literature for the discrete-time case. Although the given synthesis conditions are delay dependent, the proposed control law is delay independent, yielding to easier real time implementations. A convex procedure is proposed to maximize the size of the set of safe initial conditions. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of our approach and also to compare it with other conditions in the literature.
In Their Voices: Client and Staff Perceptions of the Physical and Social Environments of Adult Day Services Centers in Taiwan
Authors: Liou Chih-ling , Jarrott Shannon
Published: July 2018

Studies have examined the impact of environments on long-term care residents’ quality of life; however, environment gets little attention in adult day services (ADS). The current study gives voice to clients and staff by capturing their perceptions of the physical and social environments of their ADS centers. Data were collected from 23 interviews with staff and clients and 270 hours of participant observations at two ADS centers in Taiwan. The authors triangulated field notes with interview transcriptions and analyzed them with the Grounded Theory coding procedure method. Findings reveal clients’ and staff members’ perceptions of appropriate and inappropriate physical and social environmental features affecting quality of life at the center and reflecting Taiwanese culture. We address how perceived appropriate features can be sustained or replicated and how perceived inappropriate influences can be remedied. Results can be translated into action research by implementing supportive environments for both staff and clients at ADS centers.
Diabetes Device Use and Glycemic Control among Youth with Type 1 Diabetes: A Single-Center, Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sheikh Khalid , Bartz Sara K. , Lyons Sarah K. , DeSalvo Daniel J.
Published: July 2018

Aim. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to determine the rates of diabetes device use (insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor (CGM)) and association with glycemic control in youth with type 1 diabetes in a large, diverse pediatric center. Methods. Demographic and clinical data were obtained from 1992 patients who met the eligibility criteria (age < 26 years, diabetes duration ≥ 1 year, and ≥1 clinic visit in the preceding 12 months). Statistical analyses assessed the likelihood of device use based on demographic characteristics and the association between device use and glycemic control based on most recent hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). Results. Mean age was 13.8 ± 4.2 years, 50.7% were female, diabetes duration was 6.2 ± 4 years, and mean HbA1c was 8.7 ± 1.8%. Overall, 38.2% of patients were on pump therapy and 18.5% were on CGM. Patients who were non-Hispanic (NH) white, privately insured, and with primary English-speaking parent(s) had higher rates of insulin pump use, as well as CGM use (P<0.001 for both). Female patients had higher rates of pump use only (P<0.01). Private health insurance, NH white race/ethnicity, and CGM use were each associated with lower HbA1c (P=0.03, <0.001, and <0.008, resp.). Conclusion. At a large, diverse, pediatric diabetes center, disparities in diabetes device use were present across sex, race/ethnicity, health insurance coverage, and primary language of parent(s). CGM use was associated with lower HbA1c. Quality improvement efforts are underway to ensure improved access, education, and clinical programs for advanced diabetes devices for T1D patients.
A Fast and Simple Qualitative Method for Screening Oleaginous Yeasts on Agar
Authors: Niehus Xochitl , Casas-Godoy Leticia , Vargas-Sánchez Marcos , Sandoval Georgina
Published: July 2018

Finding new oleaginous yeasts is of great interest due to their many important applications. Currently available screening procedures are time-consuming, and most of these require liquid cultures. In this work, a new, fast, economical, and simple qualitative method for screening oleaginous yeasts was developed. The fluorescent dye, Rhodamine B, was selected because its fluorescence is directly correlated to lipid content, and no additional steps or special equipment are needed. This method only requires growing the yeasts on dyed agar plates. Under visible light, it is easy to observe that nonpigmented oleaginous yeasts become colored, whereas non-oleaginous yeasts remain uncolored. The developed method is also useful for improving medium composition in specific applications. Moreover, it was also adapted to use alternative carbon sources, such as lignocellulosic materials and glycerol. The developed method was applied to screen 124 recently isolated nonpigmented yeasts on three different carbon sources, namely, glucose, glycerol, and agave bagasse hydrolysate. Five strains were selected as good lipid producers on all tested carbon sources and accumulated over 48% lipids. Furthermore, the assay was adapted to screen reddish-pigmented yeasts. Considering all the above, the developed method has a wide range of applications in the field of microbial oils.