bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standardised Neuropsychological Assessment for the Selection of Patients Undergoing DBS for Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Foley Jennifer A. , Foltynie Tom , Limousin Patricia , Cipolotti Lisa
Published: June 2018

DBS is an increasingly offered advanced treatment for Parkinson’s disease (PD). Neuropsychological assessment is considered to be an important part of the screening for selection of candidates for this treatment. However, no standardised screening procedure currently exists. In this study, we examined the use of our standardised neuropsychological assessment for the evaluation of surgical candidates and to identify risk factors for subsequent decline in cognition and mood. A total of 40 patients were assessed before and after DBS. Evaluation of mood and case notes review was also undertaken. Before DBS, patients with PD demonstrated frequent impairments in intellectual functioning, memory, attention, and executive function, as well as high rates of mood disorder. Post-DBS, there was a general decline in verbal fluency only, and in one patient, we documented an immediate and irreversible global cognitive decline, which was associated with older age and more encompassing cognitive deficits at baseline. Case note review revealed that a high proportion of patients developed mood disorder, which was associated with higher levels of depression at baseline and greater reduction in levodopa medication. We conclude that our neuropsychological assessment is suitable for the screening of candidates and can identify baseline risk factors, which requires careful consideration before and after surgery.
Adherence to Hemodialysis and Associated Factors among End Stage Renal Disease Patients at Selected Nephrology Units in Rwanda: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mukakarangwa Marie Claire , Chironda Geldine , Bhengu Busisiwe , Katende Godfrey
Published: June 2018

Introduction. Worldwide, End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) has become a public health concern increasing the number of patients maintained on hemodialysis prior to renal transplantation. Nonadherence to hemodialysis continues to impact on the care of ESRD patients, causing high increase in morbidity and mortality. Purpose of the Study. The purpose of this study was to determine the level of adherence to hemodialysis and the associated factors among End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) patients in selected nephrology units in Rwanda. Methods. This was a descriptive cross-sectional design involving 41 participants. Participants were recruited using a purposive sampling technique. Demographic and adherence to hemodialysis data were collected with the use of structured interview schedules. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the demographic variables and the level of adherence to hemodialysis. Inferential statistics of chi-square was used to establish factors associated with adherence to hemodialysis. Results. Twenty-one (51%) of ESRD participants adhered highly (scores < 80%) to HD. Seventeen (42%) adhered moderately (70–79%) to HD while three (7%) had low level of adherence to HD (below 70%). The factors associated with adherence to hemodialysis were age (mean = 27; 95% CI 26.76–29, 17; p = 038) and religion (95% CI 26.29–60.12, p = 003). Frequencies of education of health care workers about the importance of not missing dialysis (95% CI 26.71–42.56, p = .000), perceived relative importance of hemodialysis (95% CI 20.44–27.76, p = .020), and experiencing difficulties during the procedure (95% CI 20.80–28.36, p = .004) were significantly associated with adherence to hemodialysis. Conclusion. Adherence to hemodialysis is still a public health concern in Rwanda. Health care providers and particularly nurses should continue to advocate for adherence to HD for better health outcomes. Further research is needed to identify the barriers to HD in Rwanda.
The Scatter Search Based Algorithm for Beam Angle Optimization in Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy
Authors: Ghanbarzadeh Ali , Pouladian Majid , Shabestani Monfared Ali , Mahdavi Seied Rabi
Published: June 2018

This article introduces a new framework for beam angle optimization (BAO) in intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) using the Scatter Search Based Algorithm. The potential benefits of plans employing the coplanar optimized beam sets are also examined. In the proposed beam angle selection algorithm, the problem is solved in two steps. Initially, the gantry angles are selected using the Scatter Search Based Algorithm, which is a global optimization method. Then, for each beam configuration, the intensity profile is calculated by the conjugate gradient method to score each beam angle set chosen. A simulated phantom case with obvious optimal beam angles was used to benchmark the validity of the presented algorithm. Two clinical cases (TG-119 phantom and prostate cases) were examined to prepare a dose volume histogram (DVH) and determine the dose distribution to evaluate efficiency of the algorithm. A clinical plan with the optimized beam configuration was compared with an equiangular plan to determine the efficiency of the proposed algorithm. The BAO plans yielded significant improvements in the DVHs and dose distributions compared to the equispaced coplanar beams for each case. The proposed algorithm showed its potential to effectively select the beam direction for IMRT inverse planning at different tumor sites.
Highly Efficient Broadband Light Absorber Based on Nonuniform Hyperbolic Metamaterial Film
Authors: Zharova Nina A. , Zharov Alexander A. , Zharov Alexander A.
Published: June 2018

We develop a concept of highly efficient broadband light absorber based on nonuniform hyperbolic metamaterial. We suggest a gradual bending of the anisotropy axis inside the metamaterial that results in spatial shift of the area of resonant absorption depending on the incidence angle. In this resonant region the wavevector of light is parallel to the generatrix of resonant cone and the radiation losses are maximal because of extremely high value of refraction index. Changing the radiation frequency also shifts the spatial position of the resonant region so that high level of absorption may be achieved in wide frequency range. Using the model of nanowire medium (silver wires in silica host) we predict that 200 nm film of this hyperbolic metamaterial allows reaching almost total absorption of radiation throughout the visible band.
Management of Pregnant Women after Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Harreiter Jürgen , Schindler Karin , Bancher-Todesca Dagmar , Göbl Christian , Langer Felix , Prager Gerhard , Gessl Alois , Leutner Michael , Ludvik Bernhard , Luger Anton , Kautzky-Willer Alexandra , Krebs Michael
Published: June 2018

The prevalence of obesity is growing worldwide, and strategies to overcome this epidemic need to be developed urgently. Bariatric surgery is a very effective treatment option to reduce excess weight and often performed in women of reproductive age. Weight loss influences fertility positively and can resolve hormonal imbalance. So far, guidelines suggest conceiving after losing maximum weight and thus recommend conception at least 12–24 months after surgery. As limited data of these suggestions exist, further evidence is urgently needed as well for weight gain in pregnancy. Oral glucose tolerance tests for the diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) should not be performed after bariatric procedures due to potential hypoglycaemic adverse events and high variability of glucose levels after glucose load. This challenges the utility of the usual diagnostic criteria for GDM in accurate prediction of complications. Furthermore, recommendations on essential nutrient supplementation in pregnancy and lactation in women after bariatric surgery are scarce. In addition, nutritional deficiencies or daily intake recommendations in pregnant women after bariatric surgery are not well investigated. This review summarizes current evidence, proposes clinical recommendations in pregnant women after bariatric surgery, and highlights areas of lack of evidence and the resulting urgent need for more clinical investigations.
Activity and Structural Characteristics of Peach Gum Exudates
Authors: Yang Haiyan , Wang Dawei , Deng Jia , Yang Jing , Shi Chun , Zhou Fanglang , Shi Zhengjun
Published: June 2018

Polysaccharide fractions were prepared from peach gum exudates by treatments with alkaline hydrogen peroxide (AHP) and liquid hot water (LHW). The structural characteristics and activities of the polysaccharide fractions were comparatively studied. The results suggested that arabinogalactans substituted with xylose and uronic acids were the main structure of all polysaccharide fractions. AHP and LHW treatments introduced the degradation of the polysaccharides, reducing the molecular weight of polysaccharides from 182500 g/mol to 78450 g/mol and 68420 g/mol, respectively. The decreasement of molecular weights responded to the decrease of thermal stability of polysaccharide fractions. However, AHP and LHW treatments removed most of the nonsugar composition, increasing the DPPH•- and ABTS•+-scavenging activity of polysaccharides. Polysaccharide fractions obtained from LHW treatment showed favorable DPPH•- and ABTS•+-scavenging activity at 22.9% and 34.3%, respectively, at concentration of 1000 μg/mL.
Filtered Medial Surface Based Approach for 3D Collision-Free Path Planning Problem
Authors: Benzaid Karima , Marie Romain , Mansouri Noura , Labbani-Igbida Ouiddad
Published: June 2018

This paper introduces an original 3D path planning approach for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) applications. More specifically, the core idea is to generate a smooth and collision-free path with respect to the vehicle dimension. Given a 3D grid representation of the environment, the Generalized Voronoi Graph (GVG) is first approximated using a filtered medial surface (FMS) algorithm on the corresponding navigable space. Based on an efficient pruning criterion, the produced FMS excludes GVG portions corresponding to narrow passages unfitting safe UAV navigation constraints, and thus it defines a set of guaranteed safe trajectories within the environment. Given a set of starting and destination coordinates, an adapted A-star algorithm is then applied to compute the shortest path on the FMS. Finally, an optimization process ensures the smoothness of the final path by fitting a set of 3D Bézier curves to the initial path. For a comparative study, the A-star algorithm is applied directly on the input environment representation and relevant comparative criteria are defined to assert the proposed approach using simulation results.
Independent Heath Facility Meets Cancer Care Ontario and Canadian Association of Gastroenterology Guidelines for Endoscopic Procedure Wait Times While Meeting Quality Indicators: A Retrospective Review
Authors: Kegel Fraser , Sne Niv , Rice Timothy , Joy Eric , Shahsavar Shayan , Collins Celeste A. , Gagarine Maria , Allard-Coutu Alexandra , Klotz Lisa , Coates Angela , Kahnamoui Kamyar , Simunovic Marko
Published: June 2018

Background. Canadian independent health facilities (IHFs) have been implemented to reduce hospital endoscopy volume and expedite endoscopic evaluations for patients suspected to have underlying colorectal cancer. Methods. We conducted a retrospective review of a prospective database at a large-volume urban IHF. The primary outcomes were wait times, and the secondary outcomes were colonoscopy quality indicators and complication rates. Results. Median wait times from referral to colonoscopy met the recommendations set out by the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology and Cancer Care Ontario for all indications: chronic abdominal pain: 43 days; new onset change in bowel habits: 36 days; bright red rectal bleeding: 42 days; documented iron-deficiency anemia: 43 days; fecal occult blood test positive: 38 days; cancer likely based on imaging or physical exam: 23 days; chronic diarrhea and chronic constipation: 42 days; and screening colonoscopies: 55 days. Secondary outcomes of quality indicators and complication rates all met or exceeded the CCO and CAG recommendations. Conclusions. This IHF met the recommended wait times for all indications for colonoscopy while maintaining high procedural quality and safety. IHFs are one solution to help meet the increasing demand for colonoscopy in Ontario.
Enhancement of Electrochemical Performance of Bilirubin Oxidase Modified Gas Diffusion Biocathode by Porphyrin Precursor
Authors: Pinchon Erica , Arugula Mary , Pant Kapil , Singhal Sameer
Published: June 2018

Recent studies have focused on tailoring the catalytic currents of multicopper oxidase (MCO) enzymes-based biocathodes to enhance oxygen reduction. Biocathodes modified with natural substrates specific for MCO enzymes demonstrated drastic improvement for oxygen reduction. Performance of 1-pyrenebutanoic acid, succinimidyl ester (PBSE), and 2,5-dimethyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrrole-3-carbaldehyde (Di-Carb) oriented bilirubin oxidase (BOx) modified gas diffusion biocathode has been highly improved by incorporating hematin, a porphyrin precursor as electron transfer enhancement moiety. Hematin modified electrodes demonstrated direct electron transfer reaction of BOx exhibiting larger O2reduction in current density in phosphate buffer solution (pH 7.0) without the need of a mediator. A remarkable improvement in the catalytic currents with 2.5-fold increase compared to non-hematin modified oriented BOx electrodes was achieved. Moreover, a mediatorless and compartmentless glucose/O2biofuel cell based on DET-type bioelectrocatalysis via the BOx cathode and the glucose dehydrogenase (GDH) anode demonstrated peak power densities of 1 mW/cm2at pH 7.0 with 100 mM glucose/10 mM NAD fuel. The maximum current density of 1.6 mA/cm2and the maximum power density of 0.4 mW/cm2were achieved at 300 mV with nonmodified BOx cathode, while 3.5 mA/cm2and 1.1 mW/cm2of current and power density were achieved with hematin modified cathode. The performance improved 2.4 times which attributes to the hematin acting as a natural precursor and activator for BOx activity enhancement.
Percutaneous Ablation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Comparison of Various Ablation Techniques and Surgery
Authors: Shiina Shuichiro , Sato Koki , Tateishi Ryosuke , Shimizu Motonori , Ohama Hideko , Hatanaka Takeshi , Takawa Masashi , Nagamatsu Hiroaki , Imai Yasuharu
Published: June 2018

Image-guided percutaneous ablation is considered best in the treatment of early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Ablation is potentially curative, minimally invasive, and easily repeatable for recurrence. Ethanol injection used to be the standard in ablation. However, radiofrequency ablation has recently been the most prevailing ablation method for HCC. Many investigators have reported that radiofrequency ablation is superior to ethanol injection, from the viewpoints of treatment response, local tumor curativity, and overall survival. New-generation microwave ablation can create a larger ablation volume in a shorter time period. Further comparison studies are, however, mandatory between radiofrequency ablation and microwave ablation, especially in terms of complications and long-term survival. Irreversible electroporation, which is a non-thermal ablation method that delivers short electric pulses to induce cell death due to apoptosis, requires further studies, especially in terms of long-term outcomes. It is considerably difficult to compare outcomes in ablation with those in surgical resection. However, radiofrequency ablation seems to be a satisfactory alternative to resection for HCC 3 cm or smaller in Child-Pugh class A or B cirrhosis. Furthermore, radiofrequency ablation may be a first-line treatment in HCC 2 cm or smaller in Child-Pugh class A or B cirrhosis. Various innovations would further improve outcomes in ablation. Training programs may be effective in providing an excellent opportunity to understand basic concepts and learn cardinal skills for successful ablation. Sophisticated ablation would be more than an adequate alternative of surgery for small- and possibly middle-sized HCC.
Effect of Task Failure on Intermuscular Coherence Measures in Synergistic Muscles
Authors: Castronovo Anna Margherita , De Marchis Cristiano , Schmid Maurizio , Conforto Silvia , Severini Giacomo
Published: June 2018

The term “task failure” describes the point when a person is not able to maintain the level of force required by a task. As task failure approaches, the corticospinal command to the muscles increases to maintain the required level of force in the face of a decreased mechanical efficacy. Nevertheless, most motor tasks require the synergistic recruitment of several muscles. How this recruitment is affected by approaching task failure is still not clear. The increase in the corticospinal drive could be due to an increase in synergistic recruitment or to overlapping commands sent to the muscles individually. Herein, we investigated these possibilities by combining intermuscular coherence and synergy analysis on signals recorded from three muscles of the quadriceps during dynamic leg extension tasks. We employed muscle synergy analysis to investigate changes in the coactivation of the muscles. Three different measures of coherence were used. Pooled coherence was used to estimate the command synchronous to all three muscles, pairwise coherence the command shared across muscle pairs and residual coherence the command peculiar to each couple of muscles. Our analysis highlights an overall decrease in synergistic command at task failure and an intensification of the contribution of the nonsynergistic shared command.
Large Draining Focal Fibrous Hyperplasia Secondary to Periapical Granuloma
Authors: Ogbureke E. I. , Couey M. A. , Vigneswaran N. , Johnson C. D.
Published: June 2018

Periapical granuloma is a pathological diagnosis associated clinically and radiographically with a nonvital tooth and a periapical radiolucency, respectively. It is frequently seen as a sequela of long-standing pulpal necrosis. Often times, a draining fistula is observed near the nonvital tooth. We report an unusual case of a large draining focal fibrous hyperplasia in association with a large periapical granuloma treated at our clinic. The diagnosis was made by the clinical presentation, radiologic and histopathologic findings.
Predictors of Mortality in Scrub Typhus Infection Requiring Intensive Care Admission in Tertiary Healthcare Centre of Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Shital , Poudel Ramesh Sharma , Shrestha Shakti , Lamichhane Praves
Published: June 2018

Introduction.This study aimed to explore the predictors of mortality from scrub typhus infection in patients requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission.Materials and Methods.A retrospective study was conducted on 120 patients with serum ELISA IgM positive for scrub typhus (optical density ≥ 0.5) admitted at the medical ICU of Chitwan Medical College Teaching Hospital between April 2016 and September 2017. Data was extracted from patient medical records and electronic database of the hospital. The outcome measurement was mortality (Yes/No) due to the infection. A multivariate binary logistic regression analysis (p<0.10) using potential variables from bivariate analysis (p<0.25) was adjusted to predict the mortality.Results.The mortality rate was 20% (24/120). Factors associated with mortality, as found using bivariate analysis, were heart rate > 100/minute (p<0.001), systolic blood pressure < 90 mmHg (p=0.025), diastolic blood pressure < 60 mmHg (p=0.032), serum creatinine > 1.4 mg/dl (p<0.001), acute kidney injury requiring dialysis (p=0.029), acute respiratory distress syndrome (p<0.001), and shock requiring vasopressor (p<0.001). Regression analysis showed age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.063; 95% CI = 1.010–1.118;p=0.019) and serum creatinine (OR = 1.063; 95% CI = 1.010–1.118;p=0.019) as significant predictors of poor outcome.Conclusion.Older age and high serum creatinine were found to be independent predictors of poor outcome in patients with scrub typhus admitted in medical ICU.
Ramadan Fasting in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Single-Centre Retrospective Study
Authors: Ibrahim Ihab A. , Hassan Ehab A. , Alkhan Abdelrahman M. , Hussein Mohamed A. , Alhabashi Ahmed F. , Ali Tariq Z. , Shah Yasir Z. , Alahmadi Ibrahim S. , Abdelsalam Mohamed S. , Rashwan Mohamed E. , Abdulbaki Ammar , Broering Dieter C. , Aleid Hassan A.
Published: June 2018

Background. Fasting during the lunar month of Ramadan is mandatory to all healthy adult Muslims. Renal transplant recipients are often worried about the impact of fluid and electrolyte deprivation during fasting on the function of their allograft. We aimed to examine the effect of fasting Ramadan on the graft function in renal transplant recipients.Methods. This retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent kidney transplantation in our tertiary referral center. Baseline pre-Ramadan estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and urinary protein excretion were compared to those during and after Ramadan within and between the fasting and non-fasting groups.Results. The study population included 280 kidney transplant recipients who chose to fast during the Ramadan month (June-July 2014) and 285 recipients who did not fast. In the fasting group, baseline eGFR did not change from that during or post-Ramadan (72.6±23.7versus72.3±24.5 mL/min/1.73 m2,P=0.53; and72.6±23.7versus72±23.2 mL/min/1.73 m2,P=0.14, respectively). Compared to baseline, there were no significant differences between the fasting and the non-fasting groups in terms of mean percent changes in eGFR, MAP, and urinary protein excretion.Conclusion. Fasting during the month of Ramadan did not have significant adverse effects on renal allograft function.
Innovative Uses of Condom Uterine Balloon Tamponade for Postpartum Hemorrhage in India and Tanzania
Authors: Makin Jennifer , Suarez-Rebling Daniela I. , Varma Shivkumar Poonam , Tarimo Vincent , Burke Thomas F.
Published: June 2018

Background. Postpartum hemorrhage is the most common cause of maternal deaths worldwide, the majority of which occur in low-resource settings. Uterine balloon tamponade (UBT) is an effective method of addressing uncontrolled postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) from uterine atony; however, UBT devices are often not affordable. We report on three novel uses of an ultra-low-cost condom uterine balloon tamponade (ESM-UBT) device. Cases. ESM-UBT devices were used in innovative ways to arrest severe uncontrolled pregnancy-related hemorrhage among three women in India and Tanzania. The first had sustained deep vaginal lacerations, the second a cervical pregnancy, and the third a complete molar pregnancy. Conclusion. The ESM-UBT device may be useful for control of obstetric hemorrhage caused by complex vaginal tears as well as cervical and molar pregnancies.
Photocatalytic Degradation and Hydrogen Production of TiO2/Carbon Fiber Composite Using Bast as a Carbon Fiber Source
Authors: Tang Guomei , Abas Asim , Wang Shanpeng
Published: June 2018

TiO2/carbon fiber composite is achieved by loading TiO2 nanoparticles on biomass carbon fiber, which originates from the carbonized natural bast. The carbonized process and the loading amount of TiO2 are researched in detail. It is found that the carbonized bast fiber shows robust adsorption characteristics for TiO2 nanoparticles in aqueous dispersion, and TiO2 nanoparticles with ~15 wt.% in total weight are uniformly loaded onto the fiber surface. The photocatalytic properties of TiO2/carbon fiber composite are evaluated by photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B and water splitting for hydrogen production. The results indicate that 90% RhB molecules could be attacked in 60 min under UV light irradiation, and the hydrogen production rate of water splitting is up to 338.51 μmol/h. The highlight is that TiO2/carbon fiber composite is easy to be recycled due to the incorporation of macroscopical biomass carbon fiber.
Efficient Impulsive Noise Mitigation for OFDM Systems Using the Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers
Authors: Lv Xin-Rong , Li Youming , He Yu-Cheng
Published: June 2018

An efficient impulsive noise estimation algorithm based on alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) is proposed for OFDM systems using quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM). Firstly, we adopt the compressed sensing (CS) method based on the l1-norm optimization to estimate impulsive noise. Instead of the conventional methods that exploit only the received signal in null tones as constraint, we add the received signal of data tones and QAM constellations as constraints. Then a relaxation approach is introduced to convert the discrete constellations to the convex box constraints. After that a linear programming is used to solve the optimization problem. Finally, a framework of ADMM is developed to solve the problem in order to reduce the computation complexity. Simulation results for 4-QAM and 16-QAM demonstrate the practical advantages of the proposed algorithm over the other algorithms in bit error rate performance gains.
Elevated Intracranial Pressure as a Cause of Sick Sinus Syndrome
Authors: Makhaly Samer , Fallah Parvaneh , Giannetti Nadia
Published: June 2018

Sick sinus syndrome (SSS) has multiple causes both familial and acquired. The most common cause is usually idiopathic. In the past literature, elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) has not been reported to be a cause of SSS. We present a case of a 55-year-old male that developed SSS after surgical resection of a brain tumor. We have investigated the causal relationship between increased ICP and SSS. We have concluded that elevated ICP creates a sympathovagal imbalance leading to SSS.
Anti‐Inflammatory Effect of ETAS®50 by Inhibiting Nuclear Factor‐κB p65 Nuclear Import in Ultraviolet‐B‐Irradiated Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Shirato Ken , Koda Tomoko , Takanari Jun , Sakurai Takuya , Ogasawara Junetsu , Imaizumi Kazuhiko , Ohno Hideki , Kizaki Takako
Published: June 2018

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation induces proinflammatory responses in skin cells, including dermal fibroblasts, accelerating premature skin aging (photoaging). ETAS 50, a standardized extract from the Asparagus officinalis stem, is a novel and unique functional food that suppresses proinflammatory responses of hydrogen peroxide‐stimulated skin fibroblasts and interleukin‐ (IL‐) 1β‐stimulated hepatocytes. To elucidate its antiphotoaging potencies, we examined whether ETAS 50 treatment after UV‐B irradiation attenuates proinflammatory responses of normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). UV‐B‐irradiated NHDFs showed reduced levels of the cytosolic inhibitor of nuclear factor‐κB α (IκBα) protein and increased levels of nuclear p65 protein. The nuclear factor‐κB nuclear translocation inhibitor JSH‐23 abolished UV‐B irradiation‐induced IL‐1β mRNA expression, indicating that p65 regulates transcriptional induction. ETAS 50 also markedly suppressed UV‐B irradiation‐induced increases in IL‐1β mRNA levels. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that ETAS 50 retained p65 in the cytosol after UV‐B irradiation. Western blotting also showed that ETAS 50 suppressed the UV‐B irradiation‐induced increases in nuclear p65 protein. Moreover, ETAS 50 clearly suppressed UV‐B irradiation‐induced distribution of importin‐α protein levels in the nucleus without recovering cytosolic IκBα protein levels. These results suggest that ETAS 50 exerts anti‐inflammatory effects on UV‐B‐irradiated NHDFs by suppressing the nuclear import machinery of p65. Therefore, ETAS 50 may prevent photoaging by suppressing UV irradiation‐induced proinflammatory responses of dermal fibroblasts.
Detection of Veterinary Antimicrobial Residues in Milk through Near-Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Luiz Leandro da Conceição , Bell Maria José Valenzuela , Rocha Roney Alves da , Leal Nayara Lizandra , Anjos Virgílio de Carvalho dos
Published: June 2018

This study focuses on detection of antimicrobial residues in milk through Fourier transform near-infrared spectroscopy. Simulated and real samples were considered. The simulated ones take into account veterinary drugs added in milk samples in the following concentrations: enrofloxacin 100 μg/L, terramycin 100 μg/L, and penicillin 4 μg/L. The statistical tool used to discriminate the samples was the principal component analysis (PCA). Our results show that, with this experimental procedure, it is possible to discriminate different types of antimicrobials dissolved in milk. Moreover, the methodology was able to detect real sample milked on different days after the injection of ceftiofur hydrochloride which is in principle a zero grace period antimicrobial. The methodology proved to be fast and accurate within the maximum residue limits allowed by European Agency for Medicinal Products and Ministry of Agriculture Livestock and Food Supply from Brazil.
The Modelling of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Contaminated Environments in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Chadsuthi Sudarat , Wichapeng Surapa
Published: June 2018

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) has spread widely in a continuing endemic in Thailand. There are no specific vaccines or antiviral treatments available that specifically target HFMD. Indirect transmission via free-living viruses from the environment may influence HFMD infections because the virus can survive for long periods in the environment. In this study, a new mathematical model is proposed to investigate the effect of indirect transmission from contaminated environments and the impact of asymptomatic individuals. By fitting our model to reported data on hospitalized individuals of HFMD endemic in Bangkok, Thailand, 2016, the basic reproduction number was estimated as 1.441, which suggests that the disease will remain under current conditions. Numerical simulations show that the direct transmission from asymptomatic individuals and indirect transmission via free-living viruses are important factors which contribute to new HFMD infections. Sensitivity analysis indicates that the basic reproduction number is sensitive to the transmission rate of asymptomatic and symptomatic subgroups and indirect transmission. Our findings suggest that cleaning the environment frequently and healthcare precautions which include the reduction of direct transmission rates should be promoted as effective control strategies for preventing the HFMD spread.
Effect of the Use of Different Acoustic Stimuli on Cortical Auditory Evoked Potentials and Autonomic Cardiac Modulation
Authors: Fiuza Regaçone Simone , Valenti Vitor Engrácia , Figueiredo Frizzo Ana Cláudia
Published: June 2018

Purpose. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between Cortical Auditory Evoked Potentials (CAEPs) measurements and autonomic cardiac modulation in relation to different acoustic stimuli and to verify which of these stimuli have more influence on the autonomic nervous system.Methods. Sixty healthy women, aged between 18 and 25 years, participated in this study. Prior to the CAEP examination, blood pressure and resting heart rate were measured using a stethoscope, sphygmomanometer, and the Polar RS800CX cardiofrequency measures. After the collection of these measures, the CAEP test was started simultaneously with the HRV collection.Results. All the HRV indices presented correlations with the components of the CAEPs. During the acoustic stimulation, a predominance of the modulation of the autonomic parasympathetic nervous system was observed. The harmonic and disharmonic stimuli were the ones that presented the most correlations between the measures analyzed in this study.Conclusions. There was an association between CAEP and cardiac autonomic modulation in relation to different acoustic stimuli. Among the acoustic stimuli used in this study, the ones that most influenced the autonomic cardiac modulation were harmonic and disharmonic stimuli, which are acoustically more complex stimuli.
Development of a Multimodal Analgesia Protocol for Perioperative Acute Pain Management for Lower Limb Amputation
Authors: De Jong Roberta , Shysh Alexander J.
Published: June 2018

Multimodal analgesia may include pharmacological components such as regional anesthesia, opioid and nonopioid systemic analgesics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, and a variety of adjuvant agents. Multimodal analgesia has been reported for a variety of surgical procedures but not yet for lower limb amputation in vasculopathic patients. Perioperative pain management in these patients presents a particular challenge considering the multiple sources and pathways for acute and chronic pain that are involved, such as chronic ischemic limb pain, postoperative residual limb pain, coexisting musculoskeletal pain, phantom limb sensations, and chronic phantom limb pain. These pain mechanisms are explored and a proposed protocol for multimodal analgesia is outlined taking into account the common patient comorbidities found in this patient population.
Estimation of the Craniectomy Surface Area by Using Postoperative Images
Authors: Ho Meng-Yin , Tseng Wei-Lung , Xiao Furen
Published: June 2018

Decompressive craniectomy (DC) is a neurosurgical procedure performed to relieve the intracranial pressure engendered by brain swelling. However, no easy and accurate method exists for determining the craniectomy surface area. In this study, we implemented and compared three methods of estimating the craniectomy surface area for evaluating the decompressive effort. We collected 118 sets of preoperative and postoperative brain computed tomography images from patients who underwent craniectomy procedures between April 2009 and April 2011. The surface area associated with each craniectomy was estimated using the marching cube and quasi-Monte Carlo methods. The surface area was also estimated using a simple AC method, in which the area is calculated by multiplying the craniectomy length (A) by its height (C). The estimated surface area ranged from 9.46 to 205.32 cm2, with a median of 134.80 cm2. The root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) between the marching cube and quasi-Monte Carlo methods was 7.53 cm2. Furthermore, the RMSD was 14.45 cm2 between the marching cube and AC methods and 12.70 cm2 between the quasi-Monte Carlo and AC methods. Paired t-tests indicated no statistically significant difference between these methods. The marching cube and quasi-Monte Carlo methods yield similar results. The results calculated using the AC method are also clinically acceptable for estimating the DC surface area. Our results can facilitate additional studies on the association of decompressive effort with the effect of craniectomy.
Metal Matrix Composite Coatings of Cupronickel Embedded with Nanoplatelets for Improved Corrosion Resistant Properties
Authors: Thurber Casey R. , Ahmad Yahia H. , Calhoun Margaret C. , Al-Shenawa Amaal , D’Souza Nandika , Mohamed Adel M. A. , Golden Teresa D.
Published: June 2018

The deterioration of metals under the influence of corrosion is a costly problem faced by many industries. Therefore, particle-reinforced composite coatings are being developed in different technological fields with high demands for corrosion resistance. This work studies the effects of nanoplatelet reinforcement on the durability, corrosion resistance, and mechanical properties of copper-nickel coatings. A 90 : 10 Cu-Ni alloy was coelectrodeposited with nanoplatelets of montmorillonite (Mt) embedded into the metallic matrix from electrolytic baths containing 0.05, 0.10, and 0.15% Mt. X-ray diffraction of the coatings indicated no disruption of the crystal structure with addition of the nanoplatelets into the alloy. The mechanical properties of the coatings improved with a 17% increase in hardness and an 85% increase in shear adhesion strength with nanoplatelet incorporation. The measured polarization resistance increased from 11.77 kΩ·cm2for pure Cu-Ni to 33.28 kΩ·cm2for the Cu-Ni-0.15% Mt coating after soaking in a simulated seawater environment for 30 days. The incorporation of montmorillonite also stabilized the corrosion potential during the immersion study and increased resistance to corrosion.
Stability and Energy-Casimir Mapping for Integrable Deformations of the Kermack-McKendrick System
Authors: Lăzureanu Cristian , Petrişor Camelia
Published: June 2018

Integrable deformations of a Hamilton-Poisson system can be obtained altering its constants of motion. These deformations are integrable systems that can have various dynamical properties. In this paper, we give integrable deformations of the Kermack-McKendrick model for epidemics, and we analyze a particular integrable deformation. More precisely, we point out two Poisson structures that lead to infinitely many Hamilton-Poisson realizations of the considered system. Furthermore, we study the stability of the equilibrium points, we give the image of the energy-Casimir mapping, and we point out some of its properties.
Dynamic Modeling and Simulation of an Isolated Hybrid Power System in a Rural Area of China
Authors: Jiang Bojian , Iqbal M. Tariq
Published: June 2018

In some rural areas in the northwest of China, people are suffering from not only the voltage drop due to long distance transmission but also the power outages due to remoteness and poorly maintained grid. In recent few years, the price of solar energy has been reduced drastically every year in China due to the government policy on renewable energy. In the near future, isolated hybrid power systems for home use could be affordable and used by residences in these rural areas. Thus, it is necessary to design a hybrid power system based on local load and weather condition to check system feasibility and expected performance. It includes load simulation, system sizing, and dynamic system modeling and simulation. This paper firstly introduces current development of renewable energy in China and then goes through the sizing, modeling, and simulation of the system design for a typical remote home in China and finally discusses the system’s availability based on the simulation results. In this paper, the NASA website is the source for weather data, and BEopt is used to generate load data. During system modeling, the MPPT algorithm is much simpler designed than the complex incremental method. A soft starter is adopted with the diesel generator for stability. The charge controller of the battery storage provides external command to the MPPT and diesel PID controller to prevent the battery storage from overcharging. The rms value of the fundamental load voltage is used in the voltage control loop of the inverter.
Biomimetic Synthesis of Hydroxyapatite in Presence of Imidazole-4,5-dicarboxylic Acid Grafted Chitosan for Removing Chromium(VI)
Authors: Chen Zhangxu , Wu Baorong , Huang Xiaodan , Li Xianxue , Lin Yonglong
Published: June 2018

In order to biomimetic synthesize hydroxyapatite similar to natural bone. Hydroxyapatite (HAP) is biomimetic synthesized in simulated body fluid (SBF) by addition of imidazole-4,5-dicarboxylic acid grafted chitosan (IDACS). The effect of molar ratio of chitosan (CS) to imidazole-4,5-dicarboxylic acid (IDA) on preparation of HAP was investigated. The structure, size, and crystal phase of the obtained hydroxyapatite were observed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the molar ratio of CS to IDA is 1 : 3, the temperature is 37.0°C, the aging time is 48 h, the synthesized nanorod-like hydroxyapatite with diameter 20–30 nm, and length ranging from 75 to 120 nm presents excellent phase, which disperses well and is similar to the natural bone of HAP. The obtained HAP can be used to remove chromium(VI) by the orthogonal experiments, and the results indicated that the removal rate can reach 95.66% under the optimum conditions. These results suggest that the morphology of the obtained HAP is more affected by the material ratio of chitosan to imidazole-4,5-dicarboxylic acid than its structure, and the obtained HAP can effectively remove Cr(VI), which provides a novel method for biomimetic synthesis of other biomaterials and application in the water purification.
Post-Fall Intelligence Supporting Fall Severity Diagnosis Using Kinect Sensor
Authors: Watanapa Bunthit , Patsadu Orasa , Dajpratham Piyapat , Nukoolkit Chakarida
Published: June 2018

This paper proposes a fall severity analytic and post-fall intelligence system with three interdependent modules. Module I is the analysis of fall severity based on factors extracted in the phases of during and after fall which include innovative measures of the sequence of body impact, level of impact, and duration of motionlessness. Module II is a timely autonomic notification to relevant persons with context-dependent fall severity alert via electronic communication channels (e.g., smartphone, tablet, or smart TV set). Lastly, Module III is the diagnostic support for caregivers and doctors to have information for making a well-informed decision of first aid or postcure with the chronologically traceable intelligence of information and knowledge found in Modules I and II. The system shall be beneficial to caregivers or doctors, in giving first aid/diagnosis/treatment to the subject, especially, in cases where the subject has lost consciousness and is unable to respond.
Combination of APACHE Scoring Systems with Adductor Pollicis Muscle Thickness for the Prediction of Mortality in Patients Who Spend More Than One Day in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Nematifard Elahe , Ardehali Seyed Hossein , Shahbazi Shaahin , Eini-Zinab Hassan , Vahdat Shariatpanahi Zahra
Published: June 2018

Background. The objective of the present study was to compare the ability of Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) scoring systems with the combination of an anthropometric variable score “adductor pollicis muscle (APM) thickness” to the APACHE systems in predicting mortality in the intensive care unit. Methods. A prospective observational study was conducted with the APM thickness in the dominant hand, and APACHE II and III scores were measured for each patient upon admission. Given scores for the APM thickness were added to APACHE score systems to make two composite scores of APACHE II-APM and APACHE III-APM. The accuracy of the two composite models and APACHE II and III systems in predicting mortality of patients was compared using the area under the ROC curve. Results. Three hundred and four patients with the mean age of 54.75 ± 18.28 years were studied, of which 96 (31.57%) patients died. Median (interquartile range) of APACHE II and III scores was 15 (12–20) and 47 (33–66), respectively. Median (interquartile range) of APM thickness was 15 (12–17) mm, respectively. The area under the ROC curves for the prediction of mortality was 0.771 (95% CI: 0.715–0.827), 0.802 (95% CI: 0.751–0.854), 0.851 (95% CI: 0.807–0.896), and 0.865 (95% CI: 0.822–0.908) for APACHE II, APACHE III, APACHE II-APM, and APACHE III-APM, respectively. Conclusion. Although improvements in the area under ROC curves were not statistically significant when the APM thickness added to the APACHE systems, but the numerical value added to AUCs are considerable.
Prognostic Factors in Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Glomerulonephritis with Severe Glomerular Sclerosis: A National Registry-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Bjørneklett Rune , Solbakken Vilde , Bostad Leif , Fismen Anne-Siri
Published: June 2018

Background. Classification of patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated glomerulonephritis (ANCA-GN) into histological classes is useful for predicting a patient’s risk of progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). However, even in the worst prognostic group, the 5-year end-stage renal disease-free survival rate is as high as 50%. Objectives. To investigate those prognostic factors indicative of progression to ESRD in patients with ANCA-GN and sclerosing histology. Methods. Patients from the Norwegian Kidney Biopsy Registry between 1991 and 2012 who had biopsy verified pauci-immune glomerulonephritis, positive ANCA serology, and sclerosing histology were included. Cases with ESRD during follow-up were identified via linkage with the Norwegian Renal Registry. Potential prognostic factors with relevant cut-offs were compared in patients with and without progression to ESRD during follow-up. Results. Of 23 included patients, 10 progressed to ESRD. ESRD patients had a lower initial estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; 21 versus 52 ml/min/1.73 m2) and a lower percentage of normal glomeruli (4% versus 15%). Five-year risks of ESRD with eGFR >15 versus ≤15 ml/min/1.73 m2 were 77% and 15%, with percentage normal glomeruli >10% versus ≤10%, 83% and 39%. Conclusions. eGFR and percentage of normal glomeruli are strong risk factors for ESRD in ANCA-GN with sclerosing histology.
Microstructure Changes and Improvement in the Mechanical Properties of As‐Cast AlSi7MgCu0.5 Alloy Induced by the Heat Treatment and ECAP Technique at Room Temperature
Authors: Matvija Miloš , Fujda Martin , Milkovič Ondrej , Vojtko Marek , Kočiško Róbert , Glogovský Miroslav
Published: June 2018

The changes in the microstructure and improvement in the mechanical properties of as‐cast AlSi7MgCu0.5 alloy induced by the heat treatment and technique of equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) were investigated. The heat treatment of as‐cast alloy performed before the ECAP technique was required to increase the plasticity of the alloy. Therefore, the samples of analysed alloys were solution annealed at optimized temperature of 823 K for 4 hours to dissolve the particles of intermetallic π(Al8FeMg3Si6) phase and to spheroidize the Si particles. Subsequently, water quenching and artificial ageing at optimized temperature of 573 K for 5 hours was used to obtain an overaged alloy state. The microstructure of alloy was consisted of α(Al) solid solution, eutectic Si particles, and intermetallic β(Mg2Si), Q‐Al4Mg5Si4Cu, α‐Al12(Fe,Mn)3Si, and/or α‐Al15(Fe,Mn)3Si2 phase particles. The crystal structure of present phases was confirmed by hard X‐ray diffraction at Deutsches Elektronen‐Synchrotron (DESY) in Hamburg and by the selected area electron diffraction (SAED) performed inside the transmission electron microscope (TEM). The heat‐treated alloy was processed by ECAP at room temperature following route A. Repetitive ECAP of alloy homogenized the heterogeneous as‐cast microstructure and formed the ultrafine subgrain microstructure with elongated subgrains of 0.2 µm in width and 0.65 µm in length and the high dislocation density. Microstructural changes in alloy induced by both heat treatment and ECAP led to the high strain hardening of the alloy that appeared in an improvement in strength, ductility, and microhardness of alloy in comparison with as‐cast alloy state.