bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermodynamics of Low-Dimensional Trapped Fermi Gases
Authors: Sevilla Francisco J.
Published: January 2017

The effects of low dimensionality on the thermodynamics of a Fermi gas trapped by isotropic power-law potentials are analyzed. Particular attention is given to different characteristic temperatures that emerge, at low dimensionality, in the thermodynamic functions of state and in the thermodynamic susceptibilities (isothermal compressibility and specific heat). An energy-entropy argument that physically favors the relevance of one of these characteristic temperatures, namely, the nonvanishing temperature at which the chemical potential reaches the Fermi energy value, is presented. Such an argument allows interpreting the nonmonotonic dependence of the chemical potential on temperature, as an indicator of the appearance of a thermodynamic regime, where the equilibrium states of a trapped Fermi gas are characterized by larger fluctuations in energy and particle density as is revealed in the corresponding thermodynamics susceptibilities.
Unbalance Compensation of a Full Scale Test Rig Designed for HTR-10GT: A Frequency-Domain Approach Based on Iterative Learning Control
Authors: He Ying , Shi Lei , Shi Zhengang , Sun Zhe
Published: January 2017

Unbalance vibrations are crucial problems in heavy rotational machinery, especially for the systems with high operation speed, like turbine machinery. For the program of 10 MW High Temperature gas-cooled Reactor with direct Gas-Turbine cycle (HTR-10GT), the rated operation speed of the turbine system is 15000 RPM which is beyond the second bending frequency. In that case, even a small residual mass will lead to large unbalance vibrations. Thus, it is of great significance to study balancing methods for the system. As the turbine rotor is designed to be suspended by active magnetic bearings (AMBs), unbalance compensation could be achieved by adequate control strategies. In the paper, unbalance compensation for the Multi-Input and Multi-Output (MIMO) active magnetic bearing (AMB) system using frequency-domain iterative learning control (ILC) is analyzed. Based on the analysis, an ILC controller for unbalance compensation of the full scale test rig, which is designed for the rotor and AMBs in HTR-10GT, is designed. Simulation results are reported which show the efficiency of the ILC controller for attenuating the unbalance vibration of the full scale test rig. This research can offer valuable design criterion for unbalance compensation of the turbine machinery in HTR-10GT.
Low Prevalence of Clinically Significant Endoscopic Findings in Outpatients with Dyspepsia
Authors: Abdeljawad Khaled , Wehbeh Antonios , Qayed Emad
Published: January 2017

Background.The value of endoscopy in dyspeptic patients is questionable.Aims.To examine the prevalence of significant endoscopic findings (SEFs) and the utility of alarm features and age in predicting SEFs in outpatients with dyspepsia.Methods.A retrospective analysis of outpatient adults who had endoscopy for dyspepsia. Demographic variables, alarm features, and endoscopic findings were recorded. We defined SEFs as peptic ulcer disease, erosive esophagitis, malignancy, stricture, or findings requiring specific therapy.Results.Of 650 patients included in the analysis, 51% had a normal endoscopy. The most common endoscopic abnormality was nonerosive gastritis (29.7%) followed by nonerosive duodenitis (7.2%) and LA-class A esophagitis (5.4%). Only 10.2% had a SEF. Five patients (0.8%) had malignancy. SEFs were more likely present in patients with alarm features (12.6% versus 5.4%,p=0.004). Age ≥ 55 and presence of any alarm feature were associated with SEFs (aOR 1.8 and 2.3, resp.).Conclusion.Dyspeptic patients have low prevalence of SEF. The presence of any alarm feature and age ≥ 55 are associated with higher risk of SEF. Endoscopy in young patients with no alarm features has a low yield; these patients can be considered for nonendoscopic approach for diagnosis and management.
Diphenhydramine as a Cause of Drug-Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Namn Yunseok , Schneider Yecheskel , Cui Isabelle H. , Jesudian Arun
Published: January 2017

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is the most common cause of acute liver failure in the Unites States and accounts for 10% of acute hepatitis cases. We report the only known case of diphenhydramine-induced acute liver injury in the absence of concomitant medications. A 28-year-old man with history of 13/14-chromosomal translocation presented with fevers, vomiting, and jaundice. Aspartate-aminotransferase and alanine-aminotransferase levels peaked above 20,000 IU/L and 5,000 IU/L, respectively. He developed coagulopathy but without altered mental status. Patient reported taking up to 400 mg diphenhydramine nightly, without concomitant acetaminophen, for insomnia. He denied taking other medications, supplements, antibiotics, and herbals. A thorough workup of liver injury ruled out viral hepatitis (including A, B, C, and E), autoimmune, toxic, ischemic, and metabolic etiologies including Wilson’s disease. A liver biopsy was consistent with DILI without evidence of iron or copper deposition. Diphenhydramine was determined to be the likely culprit. This is the first reported case of diphenhydramine-induced liver injury without concomitant use of acetaminophen.
Unusual Complication following a Myomectomy: Colic Migration of a Forgotten Abdominal Swab
Authors: Tchangai Boyodi , Alassani Fousseni , Tchaou Mazamesso
Published: January 2017

Surgical sponges are the most common retained foreign bodies following surgery. The morbidity of this condition is illustrated herein with the case of a 36-year-old female patient with a history of myomectomy 5 months before her admission into our unit for enterocutaneous fistula. Although imaging and etiological investigations were made, diagnosis was carried out only by laparotomy. The foreign body found was an abdominal swab that migrated from abdominal cavity to the colon causing several intestinal injuries. The lack of specific clinical signs and the death of the patient raise the necessity of preventing these complications that involve the surgeon liability.
Electroacupuncture at ST36 Protects ICC Networks via mSCF/Kit‐ETV1 Signaling in the Stomach of Diabetic Mice
Authors: Tian Lugao , Zhu Beibei , Liu Shi
Published: January 2017

Background. Electroacupuncture (EA) at ST36 has been used to regulate gastric motility and effectively improve gastric emptying in diabetic patients. Nevertheless, the specific mechanisms underlying the efficacy of this treatment remain unknown. The aim of this study was to assess the variations of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) and explore the changes in mSCF/KIT‐ETV1 signaling in the antrum and corpus of diabetic mice after treatment with EA. Methods. Male C57BL/6 mice were randomized into five groups: control group, diabetic group (DM), diabetic‐plus‐sham EA group (SEA), diabetic‐plus‐low‐frequency EA group (LEA), and diabetic‐plus‐high‐frequency EA group (HEA). The expression levels of Ano1, c‐Kit, and ETV1 were assessed by immunofluorescence in the antrum and corpus. Western blotting and PCR methods were further used to evaluate c‐Kit, mSCF, and ETV1 expression. Results. (1) c‐Kit and Ano1 were obviously decreased in the DM group, but c‐Kit reduced much more than Ano1. (2) The mSCF, c‐Kit, and ETV1 mRNA and protein levels were obviously decreased in the DM group in both the antrum and the corpus (P < 0.01), but they were significantly elevated in the LEA and HEA groups (P < 0.01). Conclusions. Ano1 is a reliable marker to detect ICC changes in diabetes; low‐ and high‐frequency EA at acupoint ST36 can protect the networks of ICC possibly via normal activation of mSCF/KIT‐ETV1 signaling.
Canine Adipose Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Transcriptome Composition Alterations: A Step towards Standardizing Therapeutic
Authors: Krešić Nina , Šimić Ivana , Lojkić Ivana , Bedeković Tomislav
Published: January 2017

Although canine adipose derived stem cells (cASCs) morphology characteristics and differentiation ability are well documented, transcriptome alterations of undifferentiated cASCs during ex vivo cultivation remain unknown. Here we demonstrate, for the first time, the transcriptome composition of isolated cASCs in undifferentiated state originating from six donors. Transcriptome changes were monitored during ex vivo cultivation between passage 3 (P3) and P5, which are mostly used in therapy. Influence of donors’ age in given passage number on transcriptome composition was also investigated. Cultivation from P3 to P5 resulted in 16 differentially expressed genes with cooverexpression of pluripotency and self-renewal transcription factors genes SOX2 and POU5F1 dominant in old donors’ cells. Furthermore, cASCs demonstrated upregulation of IL-6 in young and old donors’ cells. In addition, ex vivo cultivation of cASCs revealed well-known morphological alterations accompanied with decrease in expression of CD90 and CD44 markers in P4 and higher monitored by flow cytometry and successful osteo- and chondrodifferentiation but inefficient adipodifferentiation in P3. Our results revealed the impact of ex vivo cultivation on nature of cells. Correlation of transcriptome changes with secretome composition is needed and its further impact on therapeutic potential of cASCs remains to be evaluated in clinical trials.
Increased Interleukin-17F is Associated with Elevated Autoantibody Levels and More Clinically Relevant Than Interleukin-17A in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome
Authors: Gan Yuzhou , Zhao Xiaozhen , He Jing , Liu Xu , Li Yun , Sun Xiaolin , Li Zhanguo
Published: January 2017

Th17 related immune response is pathogenic in primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS). However, the role of IL-17F, one potent inflammatory member of IL-17 family cytokines in pSS, has not been specifically defined. We recruited one hundred and nine pSS patients and forty-two healthy controls and their serum levels of IL-17A and IL-17F were determined by multiplex cytokine assays. White blood cell, red blood cell, neutrophil, lymphocyte, IgM, IgG, C3, C4, RF, ANA, anti-SSA antibody, and anti-SSB antibody were measured by standard laboratory techniques. EULAR Sjögren’s syndrome disease activity index (ESSDAI) score was also evaluated accordingly. We found that IL-17F was significantly increased in pSS patients. Elevated levels of IL-17F were associated with increased IgG and IgM, higher titers of ANA and anti-SSA antibodies, and reduction of C3 and C4. Patients with higher disease activity also showed higher serum IL-17F levels. However, serum IL-17A was only increased in patients with longer disease duration and showed few correlation with clinical and laboratory features in pSS patients. In conclusion, IL-17F was correlated with increased autoantibody levels and disease activity in pSS and is more clinically relevant than IL-17A.
A General Framework for Splitting Concepts for Cocycles over Generalized Nonautonomous Dynamical Systems
Authors: Stoica Codruţa
Published: January 2017

While the classic theory of exponential dichotomy deals with differential and difference equations with uniquely determined forward and backward solutions, nowadays, applications in engineering require having corresponding theory for equations whose backward solutions are not guaranteed to exist or to be unique. To this goal, we will consider general dichotomic behaviors that consist in assuming the existence of splitting into invariant subspaces, where the norms of the evolution trajectories are bounded by some functions that depend on the initial and final times.
Schisandra Lignan Extract Protects against Carbon Tetrachloride‐Induced Liver Injury in Mice by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Regulating the NF‐κB and JNK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Chen Qingshan , Zhan Qi , Li Ying , Sun Sen , Zhao Liang , Zhang Hai , Zhang Guoqing
Published: January 2017

Schisandra chinensis (S. chinensis) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine widely used for the treatment of liver disease, whose main active components are lignans. However, the action mechanisms of the lignans in S. chinensis remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect and related molecular mechanism of Schisandra lignan extract (SLE) against carbon tetrachloride‐ (CCl4‐) induced acute liver injury in mice. Different doses of SLE at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg were administered daily by gavage for 5 days before CCl4 treatment. The results showed that SLE significantly decreased the activities of serum ALT/AST and reduced liver pathologic changes induced by CCl4. Pretreatment with SLE not only decreased the content of MDA but increased SOD, GSH, and GSH‐Px activities in the liver, suggesting that SLE attenuated CCl4‐induced oxidative stress. The expression levels of inflammatory cytokines TNF‐a, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 were decreased after oral administration of SLE, probably because lignans inhibited the NF‐κB activity. Additionally, SLE also inhibited hepatocyte apoptosis by suppressing JNK activation and regulating Bcl‐2/Bax signaling pathways. In conclusion, these results suggested that SLE prevented CCl4‐induced liver injury through a combination of antioxidative stress, anti‐inflammation, and antihepatocyte apoptosis and alleviated inflammation and apoptosis by regulating the NF‐κB, JNK, and Bcl‐2/Bax signaling pathways.
Insights into the Action Mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Osteoarthritis
Authors: Li Linfu , Liu Haiqing , Shi Weimei , Liu Hai , Yang Jianqiong , Xu Daohua , Huang Hao , Wu Longhuo
Published: January 2017

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease characterized by articular cartilage destruction, synovial inflammation, and osteophyte formation. No effective treatments are available. The current pharmacological medications such as nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics, accompanied by possible adverse effects, might ameliorate OA symptoms. But they do not arrest the progression of OA. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) provides medical value by modification of disease and symptoms in OA. Valuable work on exploring TCM merits for OA patients has been investigated using modern technologies, although the complicated interacting network among the numerous components indicates the uncertainty of target specification. This review will provide an overview of the action mechanism of TCM in the last 5 years, discussing the TCM activities of anti‐inflammation, antiapoptosis, antioxidation, anticatabolism, and proliferation in OA. TCM is a proposed medical option for OA treatment.
Acute Thrombotic Occlusion of the Popliteal Artery following Knee Dislocation: A Case Report of Management, Local Unit Practice, and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Godfrey Anthony Dean , Hindi Fadi , Ettles Callum , Pemberton Mark , Grewal Perbinder
Published: January 2017

Arterial complications following traumatic knee injury are relatively rare but mandate timely recognition and treatment to avoid significant comorbidity and medicolegal ramifications. In this report we describe a case of acute thrombotic occlusion of the popliteal artery occurring after knee dislocation, successfully repaired by intimal fixation and a limited venous patch reconstruction. We present a review of local practice in screening vascular injuries following knee dislocation, aligned with a review of the literature and considerations for practice.
Switching Stable Kidney Transplant Recipients to a Generic Tacrolimus Is Feasible and Safe, but It Must Be Monitored
Authors: González Fernando , López René , Arriagada Elizabeth , Carrasco René , Gallardo Natalia , Lorca Eduardo
Published: January 2017

Background. Tacrolimus is the primary immunosuppressive drug used in kidney transplant patients. Replacing brand name products with generics is a controversial issue that we studied after a Chilean Ministry of Health mandate to implement such a switch.Methods. Forty-one stable Prograf (Astellas) receiving kidney transplant patients were switched to a generic tacrolimus (Sandoz) in a 1 : 1 dose ratio and were followed up for up to 8 months. All other drugs were maintained as per normal practice.Results. Neither tacrolimus doses nor their trough blood levels changed significantly after the switch, but serum creatinine did:1.62±0.90versus1.75±0.92 mg/dL (p<0.001). At the same time, five graft biopsies were performed, and two of them showed cellular acute rejection. There were nine infectious episodes treated satisfactorily with proper therapies. No patient or graft was lost during the follow-up time period.Conclusion. Switching from brand name tacrolimus to a generic tacrolimus (Sandoz) is feasible and appears to be safe, but it must be monitored carefully by treating physicians.
Epigenetics and Signaling Pathways in Glaucoma
Authors: Gauthier Angela C. , Liu Ji
Published: January 2017

Glaucoma is the most common cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. This neurodegenerative disease becomes more prevalent with aging, but predisposing genetic and environmental factors also contribute to increased risk. Emerging evidence now suggests that epigenetics may also be involved, which provides potential new therapeutic targets. These three factors work through several pathways, including TGF-β, MAP kinase, Rho kinase, BDNF, JNK, PI-3/Akt, PTEN, Bcl-2, Caspase, and Calcium-Calpain signaling. Together, these pathways result in the upregulation of proapoptotic gene expression, the downregulation of neuroprotective and prosurvival factors, and the generation of fibrosis at the trabecular meshwork, which may block aqueous humor drainage. Novel therapeutic agents targeting these pathway members have shown preliminary success in animal models and even human trials, demonstrating that they may eventually be used to preserve retinal neurons and vision.
Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Its Risk Factors among Patients Attending Rwanda Military Hospital, Rwanda
Authors: Umumararungu Esperance , Ntaganda Fabien , Kagira John , Maina Naomi
Published: January 2017

In Rwanda, the prevalence of viral hepatitis (HCV) is poorly understood. The current study investigated the prevalence and risk factors of HCV infection in Rwanda. A total of 324 patients attending Rwanda Military Hospital were randomly selected and a questionnaire was administered to determine the risk factors. Blood was collected and screened for anti-HCV antibodies and seropositive samples were subjected to polymerase chain reaction method. Hematology abnormalities in the HCV infected patients were also investigated. Anti-HCV antibody and active HCV infection were found in 16.0% and 9.6% of total participants, respectively. Prevalence was highest (28.4%; 19/67) among participants above 55 years and least (2.4%; 3/123) among younger participants (18–35 years). There was a significant (P=0.031) relationship between place of residence and HCV infection with residents of Southern Province having significantly higher prevalence. The hematological abnormalities observed in the HCV infected patients included leukopenia (48.4%; 15/52), neutropenia (6.5%; 2/52), and thrombocytopenia (25.8%; 8/52). The HCV infection was significantly higher in the older population (>55 years) and exposure to injection from traditional practitioners was identified as a significant (P=0.036) risk factor of infection. Further studies to determine the factors causing the high prevalence of HCV in Rwanda are recommended.
Visual Outcomes and Prognostic Factors after Pars Plana Vitrectomy for Traumatic Endophthalmitis
Authors: Jiang Tao , Jiang Jing , Wang Renping , Lei Jianlin , Zhou Yang
Published: January 2017

Purpose. To evaluate visual outcomes and identify prognostic factors after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) surgery for traumatic endophthalmitis. Methods. Medical records of 121 consecutive patients (121 eyes) diagnosed with traumatic endophthalmitis that had undergone pars plana vitrectomy were retrospectively reviewed. Results. 121 patients, aged from 6 to 71 years, all underwent PPV surgery. 113 cases had improved best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) after surgery and 60% of them obtained BCVA better than fingers counting (FC). Good final visual prognosis was significantly associated with time between trauma and initial treatment less than 12 hrs (40% versus 98%; P<0.001), time between trauma and PPV treatment less than 24 hrs (62% versus 98%; P<0.001), laceration length less than 10 mm (63% versus 96%; P<0.001), and presenting VA better than LP (42% versus 96%; P<0.001), while gender, type of laceration, presence of IOFB or retinal detachment, and the use of silicone oil tamponade were not significant factors resulting in better BCVA. Bacteria were identified in 43.8% of specimens and most of the microorganisms were identified as nonvirulent ones. Conclusions. Pars plana vitrectomy surgery was preferred as a primary treatment option for traumatic endophthalmitis. A good final visual prognosis was significantly associated with timely treatment, prompt vitrectomy surgery, shorter length of laceration, and better presenting visual acuity.
Is Hydrogen Breath Test with Lactulose Feasible for Measuring Gastrocecal Transit in Critically Ill Children? Pilot Study about Modification of the Technique
Authors: López J. , Sánchez C. , Fernández S. N. , González R. , Solana M. J. , Urbano J. , Tolín M. , López-Herce J.
Published: January 2017

Introduction. Gastrocecal transit time (GCTT) can be measured by exhaled hydrogen after lactulose intake (lactulose-eH2 test). The objectives were to assess whether it is possible to carry out this test in critically ill children with and without mechanical ventilation (MV) and to analyze whether the results are consistent with clinical findings. Methods. Patients admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) for more than 3 days were included. Those with gastrointestinal disease prior to admission were excluded. A modified technique to obtain eH2 from the ventilator tubes was performed. Results. Sixteen patients (37.5% boys) with a median age of 19 (5–86.5) months were included. Five patients (31.2%) were breathing spontaneously but lactulose-eH2 test could not be performed while it could be performed successfully in the 11 patients with MV. Seven patients (63.3%) did not show an eH2 peak. The other 4 showed a median time of 130 min (78.7–278.7 min) from lactulose intake to a 10 ppm eH2 peak. Children with an eH2 peak had intestinal movements earlier [6.5 (1.5–38.5) versus 44 (24–72) hours p=0.545]. Conclusion. Although the designed adaption is useful for collecting breath samples, lactulose-eH2 test may not be useful for measuring GCTT in critically ill children.
Two-Phase Image Encryption Scheme Based on FFCT and Fractals
Authors: Mikhail Mervat , Abouelseoud Yasmine , ElKobrosy Galal
Published: January 2017

This paper blends the ideas from recent researches into a simple, yet efficient image encryption scheme for colored images. It is based on the finite field cosine transform (FFCT) and symmetric-key cryptography. The FFCT is used to scramble the image yielding an image with a uniform histogram. The FFCT has been chosen as it works with integers modulo p and hence avoids numerical inaccuracies inherent to other transforms. Fractals are used as a source of randomness to generate a one-time-pad keystream to be employed in enciphering step. The fractal images are scanned in zigzag manner to ensure decorrelation of adjacent pixels values in order to guarantee a strong key. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated using standard statistical analysis techniques. Moreover, sensitivity analysis techniques such as resistance to differential attacks measures, mean square error, and one bit change in system key have been investigated. Furthermore, security of the proposed scheme against classical cryptographic attacks has been analyzed. The obtained results show great potential of the proposed scheme and competitiveness with other schemes in literature. Additionally, the algorithm lends itself to parallel processing adding to its computational efficiency.
Directional Transport of a Bead Bound to Lamellipodial Surface Is Driven by Actin Polymerization
Authors: Nobezawa Daisuke , Ikeda Sho-ichi , Wada Eitaro , Nagano Takashi , Miyata Hidetake
Published: January 2017

The force driving the retrograde flow of actin cytoskeleton is important in the cellular activities involving cell movement (e.g., growth cone motility in axon guidance, wound healing, or cancer metastasis). However, relative importance of the forces generated by actin polymerization and myosin II in this process remains elusive. We have investigated the retrograde movement of the poly-D-lysine-coated bead attached with the optical trap to the edge of lamellipodium of Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts. The velocity of the attached bead drastically decreased by submicromolar concentration of cytochalasin D, latrunculin A, or jasplakinolide, indicating the involvement of actin turnover. On the other hand, the velocity decreased only slightly in the presence of 50 μM (−)-blebbistatin and Y-27632. Comparative fluorescence microscopy of the distribution of actin filaments and that of myosin II revealed that the inhibition of actin turnover by cytochalasin D, latrunculin A, or jasplakinolide greatly diminished the actin filament network. On the other hand, inhibition of myosin II activity by (−)-blebbistatin or Y-27632 little affected the actin network but diminished stress fibers. Based on these results, we conclude that the actin polymerization/depolymerization plays the major role in the retrograde movement, while the myosin II activity is involved in the maintenance of the dynamic turnover of actin in lamellipodium.
Curcumin Suppresses Intestinal Fibrosis by Inhibition of PPARγ‐Mediated Epithelial‐Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Xu Su , Jiang Bin , Wang Hui , Shen Cunsi , Chen Hao , Zeng Li
Published: January 2017

Intestinal fibrotic stricture is a major complication of Crohn’s disease (CD) and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) is considered as an important contributor to the formation of intestinal fibrosis by increasing extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Curcumin, a compound derived from rhizomes of Curcuma, has been demonstrated with a potent antifibrotic effect. However, its effect on intestinal fibrosis and the potential mechanism is not completely understood. Here we found that curcumin pretreatment significantly represses TGF‐β1‐induced Smad pathway and decreases its downstream α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) gene expression in intestinal epithelial cells (IEC‐6); in contrast, curcumin increases expression of E‐cadherin and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ) in IEC‐6. Moreover, curcumin promotes nuclear translocation of PPARγ and the inhibitory effect of curcumin on EMT could be reversed by PPARγ antagonist GW9662. Consistently, in the rat model of intestinal fibrosis induced by 2,4,5‐trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (TNBS), oral curcumin attenuates intestinal fibrosis by increasing the expression of PPARγ and E‐cadherin and decreasing the expression of α‐SMA, FN, and CTGF in colon tissue. Collectively, these results indicated that curcumin is able to prevent EMT progress in intestinal fibrosis by PPARγ‐mediated repression of TGF‐β1/Smad pathway.
Wavelet Denoising of Vehicle Platform Vibration Signal Based on Threshold Neural Network
Authors: Li Mingzhu , Wang Zhiqian , Luo Jun , Liu Yusheng , Cai Sheng
Published: January 2017

Vehicle Platform Vibration Signal (VPVS) denoising is essential to achieve high measurement accuracy of precise optical measuring instrument (POMI). A method to denoise the VPVS is proposed based on the wavelet coefficients thresholding and threshold neural network (TNN). According to the characteristics of VPVS, a novel thresholding function is constructed, and then its optimized threshold is selected through unsupervised learning of TNN. The original VPVS mixed in trend and random noise is constructed as VPVS model. A VPVS denoising flow is proposed based on the power spectral and energy distribution of the VPVS model. The simulation shows that the proposed denoising method achieves better results, compared to the previous denoising methods using the indexes of SNR and RMSE. The experiment demonstrates that it is efficient for denoising VPVS polluted by the trend and random noise.
Pseudoaneurysm of the Profunda Femoris Artery following Blunt Trauma Treated by Endovascular Coil Embolization: Review of Two Cases and Relevant Literature
Authors: Biswas Saptarshi , McNerney Patrick , Kiproff Paul
Published: January 2017

Profunda femoris artery (PFA) pseudoaneurysm after blunt trauma without associated femur fracture is a rare occurrence. Most of the reported cases of PFA pseudoaneurysm in the English literature developed after penetrating trauma, surgical procedures, and femur fractures. We present two such cases following blunt trauma and without any associated long bone injury. After initial imaging failed to show any long bone fracture, CT angiography confirmed pseudoaneurysm of the branch of the PFA. Both patients were then treated with emergent coil embolization of the bleeding vessel. Pseudoaneurysms typically present late and signs of persistent hip pain, thigh swelling, presence of a pulsatile mass, and even unexplained anemia all may suggest the diagnosis. Recognition of PFA pseudoaneurysm requires high index of suspicion and is often difficult to diagnose clinically because of its location.
Hydrogen‐Rich Water Ameliorates Total Body Irradiation‐Induced Hematopoietic Stem Cell Injury by Reducing Hydroxyl Radical
Authors: Zhang Junling , Xue Xiaolei , Han Xiaodan , Li Yuan , Lu Lu , Li Deguan , Fan Saijun
Published: January 2017

We examined whether consumption of hydrogen‐rich water (HW) could ameliorate hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) injury in mice with total body irradiation (TBI). The results indicated that HW alleviated TBI‐induced HSC injury with respect to cell number alteration and to the self‐renewal and differentiation of HSCs. HW specifically decreased hydroxyl radical ( ∙OH) levels in the c‐kit+ cells of 4 Gy irradiated mice. Proliferative bone marrow cells (BMCs) increased and apoptotic c‐kit+ cells decreased in irradiated mice uptaken with HW. In addition, the mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of γ‐H2AX and percentage of 8‐oxoguanine positive cells significantly decreased in HW‐treated c‐kit+ cells, indicating that HW can alleviate TBI‐induced DNA damage and oxidative DNA damage in c‐kit+ cells. Finally, the cell cycle (P21), cell apoptosis (BCL‐XL and BAK), and oxidative stress (NRF2, HO‐1, NQO1, SOD, and GPX1) proteins were significantly altered by HW in irradiated mouse c‐kit+ cells. Collectively, the present results suggest that HW protects against TBI‐induced HSC injury.
Uncertain Portfolio Selection with Background Risk and Liquidity Constraint
Authors: Zhai Jia , Bai Manying
Published: January 2017

This paper discusses an uncertain portfolio selection problem with consideration of background risk and asset liquidity. In addition, the transaction costs are also considered. The security returns, background asset return, and asset liquidity are estimated by experienced experts instead of historical data. Regarding them as uncertain variables, a mean‐risk model with background risk, liquidity, and transaction costs is proposed for portfolio selection and the crisp forms of the model are provided when security returns obey different uncertainty distributions. Moreover, for better understanding of the impact of background risk and liquidity on portfolio selection, some important theorems are proved. Finally, numerical experiments are presented to illustrate the modeling idea.
Decreased Tissue COX5B Expression and Mitochondrial Dysfunction during Sepsis‐Induced Kidney Injury in Rats
Authors: Hinkelbein Jochen , Böhm Lennert , Braunecker Stefan , Adler Christoph , De Robertis Edoardo , Cirillo Fabrizio
Published: January 2017

Background. Sepsis is defined as a life‐threatening organ dysfunction due to a dysregulated host response to infection. Sepsis is the dominant cause of acute kidney injury (AKI), accounting for nearly 50% of episodes of acute renal failure. Signaling cascades and pathways within the kidney are largely unknown and analysis of these molecular mechanisms may enhance knowledge on pathophysiology and possible therapeutic options. Material and Methods. 26 male Wistar rats were assigned to either a sham group (control, N = 6) or sepsis group (N = 20; cecal ligature and puncture model, 24 and 48 hours after CLP). Surviving rats (n = 12) were decapitated at 24 hours (early phase; n = 6) or 48 hours (late phase; n = 6) after CLP and kidneys removed for proteomic analysis. 2D‐DIGE and DeCyder 2D software (t‐test, P < 0.01) were used for analysis of significantly regulated protein spots. MALDI‐TOF in combination with peptide mass fingerprinting (PMF) as well as Western Blot analysis was used for protein identification. Bioinformatic network analyses (STRING, GeneMania, and PCViz) were used to describe protein‐protein interactions. Results. 12 spots were identified with significantly altered proteins (P < 0.01) in the three analyzed groups. Two spots could not be identified. Four different proteins were found significantly changed among the groups: major urinary protein (MUP5), cytochrome c oxidase subunit B (COX5b), myosin‐6 (MYH6), and myosin‐7 (MYH7). A significant correlation with the proteins was found for mitochondrial energy production and electron transport. Conclusions. COX5B could be a promising biomarker candidate since a significant association was found during experimental sepsis in the present study. For future research, COX5B should be evaluated as a biomarker in both human urine and serum to identify sepsis.
Redox and pH Responsive Poly (Amidoamine) Dendrimer-Heparin Conjugates via Disulfide Linkages for Letrozole Delivery
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Luan , Nguyen Thi Hiep , Nguyen Cuu Khoa , Nguyen Dai Hai
Published: January 2017

Heparin (Hep) conjugated to poly (amidoamine) dendrimer G3.5 (P) via redox-sensitive disulfide bond (P-SS-Hep) was studied. The redox and pH dual-responsive nanocarriers were prepared by a simple method that minimized many complex steps as previous studies. The functional characterization of G3.5 coated Hep was investigated by the proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The size and formation were characterized by the dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, and transmission electron microscopy. P-SS-Hep was spherical in shape with average diameter about 11 nm loaded with more than 20% letrozole. This drug carrier could not only eliminate toxicity to cells and improve the drugs solubility but also increase biocompatibility of the system under reductive environment of glutathione. In particular, P-SS-Hep could enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapy after removing Hep from the surface. These results demonstrated that the P-SS-Hep conjugates could be a promising candidate as redox and pH responsive nanocarriers for cancer chemotherapy.
IoT in Action: Design and Implementation of a Building Evacuation Service
Authors: Gokceli Selahattin , Zhmurov Nikolay , Kurt Gunes Karabulut , Ors Berna
Published: January 2017

With the development of sensor technologies, various application areas have emerged. The usage of these technologies and exploitation of recent improvements have clear benefits on building applications. Such use-cases can improve smart functions of buildings and can increase the end-user comfort. As a similar notion, building automation systems (BAS) are smart systems that target to provide automated management of various control services and to improve resource usage efficiency. However, buildings generally contain hardware and control services from a diverse set of characteristics. The automated and central management of such functions can be challenging. In order to overcome such issues, an Emergency Evacuation Service is proposed for BAS, where requirements of such central management model are analyzed and model content and subservice definitions are prepared. A crucial scenario, which could be a necessity for future BAS, is defined and an approach for evacuation of people in the buildings at emergency situations is proposed. For real-life scenarios, the Evacuation Service is implemented by using a low-cost design, which is appropriate for Internet of Things (IoT) based BAS applications. As demonstrated, the proposed service model can provide effective performance in real-life deployments.
Hyperforin/HP-β-Cyclodextrin Enhances Mechanosensitive Ca2+ Signaling in HaCaT Keratinocytes and in Atopic Skin Ex Vivo Which Accelerates Wound Healing
Authors: Takada Hiroya , Yonekawa Jun , Matsumoto Masami , Furuya Kishio , Sokabe Masahiro
Published: January 2017

Cutaneous wound healing is accelerated by mechanical stretching, and treatment with hyperforin, a major component of a traditional herbal medicine and a known TRPC6 activator, further enhances the acceleration. We recently revealed that this was due to the enhancement of ATP-Ca2+ signaling in keratinocytes by hyperforin treatment. However, the low aqueous solubility and easy photodegradation impede the topical application of hyperforin for therapeutic purposes. We designed a compound hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin- (HP-β-CD-) tetracapped hyperforin, which had increased aqueous solubility and improved photoprotection. We assessed the physiological effects of hyperforin/HP-β-CD on wound healing in HaCaT keratinocytes using live imaging to observe the ATP release and the intracellular Ca2+ increase. In response to stretching (20%), ATP was released only from the foremost cells at the wound edge; it then diffused to the cells behind the wound edge and activated the P2Y receptors, which caused propagating Ca2+ waves via TRPC6. This process might facilitate wound closure, because the Ca2+ response and wound healing were inhibited in parallel by various inhibitors of ATP-Ca2+ signaling. We also applied hyperforin/HP-β-CD on an ex vivo skin model of atopic dermatitis and found that hyperforin/HP-β-CD treatment for 24 h improved the stretch-induced Ca2+ responses and oscillations which failed in atopic skin.
Milk Hygiene in Rural Southwestern Uganda: Prevalence of Mastitis and Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles of Bacterial Contaminants of Milk and Milk Products
Authors: Ssajjakambwe Paul , Bahizi Gloria , Setumba Christopher , Kisaka Stevens M. B. , Vudriko Patrick , Atuheire Collins , Kabasa John David , Kaneene John B.
Published: January 2017

Mastitis and antimicrobial resistance are a big challenge to the dairy industry in sub-Saharan Africa. A study was conducted in Kashongi and Keshunga subcounties of Kiruhura District (in Uganda) where the government and private sector have deliberate programs to improve production efficiency, quality, and safety of milk and its products. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of mastitis, its common causative agents, antimicrobial sensitivity of mastitis causing organisms, and contaminants of processed milk products: yoghurt and ghee. Seventy-one milk, fourteen yoghurt, and three ghee samples were collected from nine farms. Of the 71 cows tested, 54 (76.1%) had mastitis. The mastitis cases from Keshunga were 32 (59.3%) and Kashongi contributed 22 (40.7%) of the cases. The common mastitis causative agents wereStaphylococcusspp. (30.8%),Streptococcusspp. (12.3%),Corynebacteriumspp.(15.4%), andE. coli(7.7%). Some of the isolates were resistant to tetracycline and penicillin. Prevalent contaminants of yoghurt wereStaphylococcusspp. (8.3%),Streptococcusspp. (8.3%),Corynebacteriumspp. (8.3%), andE. coli(8.3%), whereas all ghee containedStreptococcusspp. (100%). Prevalence of mastitis, antimicrobial resistance, and contamination of milk products are high in the study area. Targeted programs to prevent and control mastitis as well as antibiotic resistance are recommended.
Usefulness of Sweat Management for Patients with Adult Atopic Dermatitis, regardless of Sweat Allergy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kaneko Sakae , Murota Hiroyuki , Murata Susumu , Katayama Ichiro , Morita Eishin
Published: January 2017

Background. Sweat is an aggravating factor in atopic dermatitis (AD), regardless of age. Sweat allergy may be involved in AD aggravated by sweating. Objective. We investigated whether sweat exacerbates adult AD symptoms and examined the extent of sweat allergy’s involvement. Method. We asked 34 AD patients (17 men, 17 women; mean age: 27.8 years) to record the extent to which sweat aggravated their symptoms on a 10-point numerical scale. Participant responses were compared with histamine release tests (HRT). Furthermore, 24 of the patients received instructions on methods of sweat management, and their outcomes were evaluated on a 10-point scale. Results. Sweat HRT results were class ≥ 2 in 13 patients, but HRT results were not correlated with the patients’ self-assessments of symptom aggravation by sweat. One month after receiving sweat management instructions, a low mean score of 4.6 was obtained regarding whether active sweating was good, but a high mean score of 7.0 was obtained in response to whether the sweat management instructions had been helpful. Conclusion. Our investigation showed that patients’ negative impressions of sweat might derive from crude personal experiences that are typically linked to sweating. Sweat management for patients with adult atopic dermatitis was extremely useful regardless of sweat allergy.
Combined Supplementation of Choline and Docosahexaenoic Acid during Pregnancy Enhances Neurodevelopment of Fetal Hippocampus
Authors: Thomas Rajarethnem Huban , Megur Ramakrishna Bhat Kumar , Jc Malsawmzuali , Kumar Gopalkrishnan Siva , Mugundhu Gopalram Ramesh Babu , Rai Kiranmai Sesappa
Published: January 2017

Choline is an essential nutrient for humans which plays an important role in structural integrity and signaling functions. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a polyunsaturated fatty acid, highly enriched in cell membranes of the brain. Dietary intake of choline or DHA alone by pregnant mothers directly affects fetal brain development and function. But no studies show the efficacy of combined supplementation of choline and DHA on fetal neurodevelopment. The aim of the present study was to analyze fetal neurodevelopment on combined supplementation of pregnant dams with choline and DHA. Pregnant dams were divided into five groups: normal control [NC], saline control [SC], choline [C], DHA, and C + DHA. Saline, choline, and DHA were given as supplements to appropriate groups of dams. NC dams were undisturbed during entire gestation. On postnatal day (PND) 40, brains were processed for Cresyl staining. Pups from choline or DHA supplemented group showed significant (p<0.05) increase in number of neurons in hippocampus when compared to the same in NC and SC groups. Moreover, pups from C + DHA supplemented group showed significantly higher number of neurons (p<0.001) in hippocampus when compared to the same in NC and SC groups. Thus combined supplementation of choline and DHA during normal pregnancy enhances fetal hippocampal neurodevelopment better than supplementation of choline or DHA alone.
Injectable Anesthesia for Mice: Combined Effects of Dexmedetomidine, Tiletamine-Zolazepam, and Butorphanol
Authors: Cagle Laura A. , Franzi Lisa M. , Epstein Steven E. , Kass Philip H. , Last Jerold A. , Kenyon Nicholas J.
Published: January 2017

Anesthetic protocols for murine models are varied within the literature and medetomidine has been implicated in the development of urethral plugs in male mice. Our objective was to evaluate the combination of butorphanol, dexmedetomidine, and tiletamine-zolazepam. A secondary objective was to identify which class of agent was associated with urethral obstructions in male mice. BALB/c male (n=13) and female (n=23) mice were assigned to dexmedetomidine and tiletamine-zolazepam with or without butorphanol or to single agent dexmedetomidine or tiletamine-zolazepam. Anesthesia was achieved in 58% (14/24) of mice without butorphanol and in 100% (24/24) of mice with butorphanol. The combination of dexmedetomidine (0.2 mg/kg), tiletamine-zolazepam (40 mg/kg), and butorphanol (3 mg/kg) resulted in an induction and anesthetic duration of 12 and 143 minutes, respectively. Urethral obstructions occurred in 66% (25/38) of trials in male mice that received dexmedetomidine with a mortality rate of 38% (5/13). Tiletamine-zolazepam, when used alone, resulted in a 0% (0/21) incidence of urethral obstructions. Combination use of dexmedetomidine, tiletamine-zolazepam, and butorphanol results in a longer and more reliable duration of anesthesia than the use of dexmedetomidine and tiletamine-zolazepam alone. Dexmedetomidine is not recommended for use in nonterminal procedures in male mice due to the high incidence of urethral obstructions and resultant high mortality rate.
Outcomes and Recommendations of an Indian Expert Panel for Improved Practice in Controlled Ovarian Stimulation for Assisted Reproductive Technology
Authors: Ahemmed Baiju , Sundarapandian Vani , Gutgutia Rohit , Balasubramanyam Sathya , Jagtap Richa , Biliangady Reeta , Gupta Priti , Jadhav Sachin , Satwik Ruma , Dewda Pavitra Raj , Thakor Priti , Esteves Sandro C.
Published: January 2017

Purpose.To improve success of in vitro fertilization (IVF), assisted reproductive technology (ART) experts addressed four questions. What is optimum oocytes number leading to highest live birth rate (LBR)? Are cohort size and embryo quality correlated? Does gonadotropin type affect oocyte yield? Should “freeze-all” policy be adopted in cycles with progesterone >1.5 ng/mL on day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration?Methods.Electronic database search included ten studies on which panel gave opinions for improving current practice in controlled ovarian stimulation for ART.Results.Strong association existed between retrieved oocytes number (RON) and LBRs. RON impacted likelihood of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Embryo euploidy decreased with age, not with cohort size. Progesterone > 1.5 ng/dL did not impair cycle outcomes in patients with high cohorts and showed disparate results on day of hCG administration.Conclusions.Ovarian stimulation should be designed to retrieve 10–15 oocytes/treatment. Accurate dosage, gonadotropin type, should be selected as per prediction markers of ovarian response. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist based protocols are advised to avoid OHSS. Cumulative pregnancy rate was most relevant pregnancy endpoint in ART. Cycles with serum progesterone ≥1.5 ng/dL on day of hCG administration should not adopt “freeze-all” policy. Further research is needed due to lack of data availability on progesterone threshold or index.
Speech Characteristics in Female Students Training to Be Speech-Language Pathologists
Authors: D'haeseleer Evelien , De Ley Sophia , Cosyns Marjan , Desomer Els , De Mesel Jasmien , Van Maele George , Van Lierde Kristiane
Published: January 2017

Objective: The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the speech characteristics regarding speech intelligibility, voice, articulation, and fluency in future speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Additionally, in 31 SLP students the differences in speech characteristics between the first bachelor and the master year were measured. Participants and Methods: The data of the screening assessments of 600 future SLPs (mean age: 18.4 years) of the first bachelor year were analyzed (period 1995-2010). To evaluate the students' progress during the program, the speech data of 31 female subjects (mean age: 21.4 years) were evaluated at the end of the program and compared to the original data. A consensus evaluation by 2 SLPs was used. Results: Speech intelligibility and fluency were evaluated as normal in 99% of the students. Perceptual evaluation of vocal quality revealed disordered vocal quality in 27%. The most prominent articulation errors were distortions of vowels and dental and interdental articulation of alveolar consonants. A significant decrease in these distortions after 3 years of education was found (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Although an improvement in distortions in the master students was measured, articulation errors and dialect were present in SLP students who intended to work with speech and language disorders.