bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Deformation Mechanisms in Process of Crack Propagation for Alpha Titanium with Compounding Microdefects
Authors: Sheng Ying , Zeng Xiang-guo
Published: June 2016

The multiscale analysis method based on traction-separation law (TSL) and cohesive zone law was used to describe the cross-scale defective process of alpha titanium (α-Ti) material with compounding microdefects in this paper. First, the properties of T-S curve and the reasonable range of T-S area relative to the length of defects were discussed. Next, based on the conclusions above, the molecule dynamics analysis of three models ofα-Ti with compounding microdefects was conducted and cross-scaly simulated. The phenomenon, principles, and mechanisms of different compound microscale defects propagation ofα-Ti were observed and explained at atomic scale, and the effects of different microdefects on macrofracture parameters of materials were studied.
MDMA Impairs Response to Water Intake in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Baggott Matthew J. , Garrison Kathleen J. , Coyle Jeremy R. , Galloway Gantt P. , Barnes Allan J. , Huestis Marilyn A. , Mendelson John E.
Published: June 2016

Hyponatremia is a serious complication of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) use. We investigated potential mechanisms in two double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. In Study 1, healthy drug-experienced volunteers received MDMA or placebo alone and in combination with the alpha-1 adrenergic inverse agonist prazosin, used as a positive control to release antidiuretic hormone (ADH). In Study 2, volunteers received MDMA or placebo followed by standardized water intake. MDMA lowered serum sodium but did not increase ADH or copeptin, although the control prazosin did increase ADH. Water loading reduced serum sodium more after MDMA than after placebo. There was a trend for women to have lower baseline serum sodium than men, but there were no significant interactions with drug condition. Combining studies, MDMA potentiated the ability of water to lower serum sodium. Thus, hyponatremia appears to be a significant risk when hypotonic fluids are consumed during MDMA use. Clinical trials and events where MDMA use is common should anticipate and mitigate this risk.
Abnormal EEG Complexity and Functional Connectivity of Brain in Patients with Acute Thalamic Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Liu Shuang , Guo Jie , Meng Jiayuan , Wang Zhijun , Yao Yang , Yang Jiajia , Qi Hongzhi , Ming Dong
Published: June 2016

Ischemic thalamus stroke has become a serious cardiovascular and cerebral disease in recent years. To date the existing researches mostly concentrated on the power spectral density (PSD) in several frequency bands. In this paper, we investigated the nonlinear features of EEG and brain functional connectivity in patients with acute thalamic ischemic stroke and healthy subjects. Electroencephalography (EEG) in resting condition with eyes closed was recorded for 12 stroke patients and 11 healthy subjects as control group. Lempel-Ziv complexity (LZC), Sample Entropy (SampEn), and brain network using partial directed coherence (PDC) were calculated for feature extraction. Results showed that patients had increased mean LZC and SampEn than the controls, which implied the stroke group has higher EEG complexity. For the brain network, the stroke group displayed a trend of weaker cortical connectivity, which suggests a functional impairment of information transmission in cortical connections in stroke patients. These findings suggest that nonlinear analysis and brain network could provide essential information for better understanding the brain dysfunction in the stroke and assisting monitoring or prognostication of stroke evolution.
Exponential Stability of Cohen-Grossberg Neural Networks with Impulse Time Window
Authors: Liu Mei , Jiang Haijun , Hu Cheng
Published: June 2016

This paper concerns the problem of exponential stability for a class of Cohen-Grossberg neural networks with impulse time window and time-varying delays. In our letter, the impulsive effects we considered can stochastically occur at a definitive time window and the impulsive controllers we considered can be nonlinear and even rely on the states of all the neurons. Hence, the impulses here can be more applicable and more general. By utilizing Lyapunov functional theory, inequality technique, and the analysis method, we obtain some novel and effective exponential stability criteria for the Cohen-Grossberg neural networks. These results generalize a few previous known results and numerical simulations are given to show the effectiveness of the derived results.
Toward Psychoinformatics: Computer Science Meets Psychology
Authors: Montag Christian , Duke Éilish , Markowetz Alexander
Published: June 2016

The present paper provides insight into an emerging research discipline calledPsychoinformatics. In the context ofPsychoinformatics, we emphasize the cooperation between the disciplines of psychology and computer science in handling large data sets derived from heavily used devices, such as smartphones or online social network sites, in order to shed light on a large number of psychological traits, including personality and mood. New challenges await psychologists in light of the resulting “Big Data” sets, because classic psychological methods will only in part be able to analyze this data derived from ubiquitous mobile devices, as well as other everyday technologies. As a consequence, psychologists must enrich their scientific methods through the inclusion of methods from informatics. The paper provides a brief review of one area of this research field, dealing mainly with social networks and smartphones. Moreover, we highlight how data derived fromPsychoinformaticscan be combined in a meaningful way with data from human neuroscience. We close the paper with some observations of areas for future research and problems that require consideration within this new discipline.
Voriconazole-Induced Periostitis Mimicking Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease after Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Sweiss Karen , Oh Annie , Rondelli Damiano , Patel Pritesh
Published: June 2016

Voriconazole is an established first-line agent for treatment of invasive fungal infections in patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation (ASCT). It is associated with the uncommon complication of periostitis. We report this complication in a 58-year-old female undergoing HSCT. She was treated with corticosteroids with minimal improvement. The symptoms related to periostitis can mimic chronic graft-versus-host disease in patients undergoing HSCT and clinicians should differentiate this from other diagnoses and promptly discontinue therapy.
Circular Helix-Like Curve: An Effective Tool of Biological Sequence Analysis and Comparison
Authors: Li Yushuang , Xiao Wenli
Published: June 2016

This paper constructed a novel injection from a DNA sequence to a 3D graph, named circular helix-like curve (CHC). The presented graphical representation is available for visualizing characterizations of a single DNA sequence and identifying similarities and differences among several DNAs. A 12-dimensional vector extracted from CHC, as a numerical characterization of CHC, was applied to analyze phylogenetic relationships of 11 species, 74 ribosomal RNAs, 48 Hepatitis E viruses, and 18 eutherian mammals, respectively. Successful experiments illustrated that CHC is an effective tool of biological sequence analysis and comparison.
A Prebiotic Formula Improves the Gastrointestinal Bacterial Flora in Toddlers
Authors: Chen Ya-Ling , Liao Fang-Hsuean , Lin Shyh-Hsiang , Chien Yi-Wen
Published: June 2016

We aimed to investigate the effect of enriched 3-prebiotic formula (including inulin, fructooligosaccharides, and galactooligosaccharides) on toddler gut health by measuring fecal microbiota. Our results revealed that the consumption of 3-prebiotic formula three times per day giving total intake of 1.8 g prebiotic ingredients significantly showed the increased number of probioticBifidobacteriumspp. colonies and the reduced populations of bothC. perfringensand total anaerobic bacteria on the fecal bacterial flora in toddlers at 18~36 months. In addition, total organic acids in the fecal samples significantly increased which improves the utilization of bifidus under acidic conditions after consumption of the 3-prebiotic formula. Therefore, using the formula enriched with prebiotic may maintain gut health in toddlers.
Chemical Modifications of Cassava Peel as Adsorbent Material for Metals Ions from Wastewater
Authors: Schwantes Daniel , Gonçalves Affonso Celso , Coelho Gustavo Ferreira , Campagnolo Marcelo Angelo , Dragunski Douglas Cardoso , Tarley César Ricardo Teixeira , Miola Alisson Junior , Leismann Eduardo Ariel Völz
Published: June 2016

Residues from the processing of cassava roots (Manihot esculentaCrantz), or cassava peels, are evaluated as chemically modified adsorbents with H2O2, H2SO4, and NaOH, in the removal of metal ions Cd(II), Pb(II), and Cr(III) from contaminated water. Modified adsorbents were chemically characterized for their chemical composition andpHPZC(point of zero charge), while adsorption tests determined the best conditions of pH, adsorbent mass, and contact time between adsorbent and adsorbate in the process of removal of the metal ions. Isotherms obtained from the preliminary results were linearized by Langmuir’s and Freudlich’s models. The thermodynamic parameters, such asΔH,ΔG, andΔS, were also evaluated. The modifying solutions proposed were effective in the modification of adsorbents and resulted in high capacity sorption materials. Equilibrium time between adsorbent and adsorbate for the solutions contaminated with metals is about 40 minutes. The Langmuir model adjusted to most results, indicating monolayers adsorption of Cd(II), Pb(II), and Cr(III). The values obtained for LangmuirQmshow a higher adsorption capacity caused by chemical modifications, with values such as 19.54 mg Cd(II) per g of M. NaOH, 42.46 mg of Pb(II) per g of M. NaOH, and 43.97 mg of Cr(III) per g of M H2O2. Results showed that modified cassava peels are excellent adsorbent, renewable, high availability, and low-cost materials and a feasible alternative in the removal of metals in industries.
Expression of Pentraxin 3 and Thrombospondin 1 in Gingival Crevicular Fluid during Wound Healing after Gingivectomy in Postorthodontic Patients
Authors: Rauten Anne Marie , Silosi Isabela , Stratul Stefan Ioan , Foia Liliana , Camen Adrian , Toma Vasilica , Cioloca Daniel , Surlin Valeriu , Surlin Petra , Bogdan Maria
Published: June 2016

Background. Wound healing is a tissue repair process after an injury, and two of its main components are inflammation and angiogenesis, in which course a cascade of mediators is involved. The aim of this research was to evaluate the involvement of Pentraxin 3 and Thrombospondin 1 in wound healing after periodontal surgery (gingivectomy) for gingival overgrowth during orthodontic treatment with or without magnification devices, by assessing their levels in GCF.Methods. From 19 patients with gingival overgrowth as a result of fixed orthodontic treatment, the overgrown gingiva was removed by gingivectomy, from one half of the mandibular arch without magnification and from the other under magnification. Pentraxin 3 and Thrombospondin 1 were determined from gingival crevicular fluid by ELISA tests.Results. Statistically significant differences (p<0.05) and correlations between levels of the two biomarkers were analyzed. Statistically significant differences were established between levels of the two biomarkers at different time points, with significant positive correlation at the point of 24 hours.Conclusions. Within the limitations of this study, the results seem to sustain the involvement of Pentraxin 3 and Thrombospondin 1 in the processes of inflammation and angiogenesis in wound healing of patients with postorthodontic gingivectomy. The dynamics of Pentraxin 3 and Thrombospondin 1 levels could suggest a reduced inflammation and a faster angiogenesis using microsurgery.
Adaptive Neural Control of Nonaffine Nonlinear Systems without Differential Condition for Nonaffine Function
Authors: Sun Chaojiao , Jing Bo , Liu Zongcheng
Published: June 2016

An adaptive neural control scheme is proposed for nonaffine nonlinear system without using the implicit function theorem or mean value theorem. The differential conditions on nonaffine nonlinear functions are removed. The control-gain function is modeled with the nonaffine function probably being indifferentiable. Furthermore, only a semibounded condition for nonaffine nonlinear function is required in the proposed method, and the basic idea of invariant set theory is then constructively introduced to cope with the difficulty in the control design for nonaffine nonlinear systems. It is rigorously proved that all the closed-loop signals are bounded and the tracking error converges to a small residual set asymptotically. Finally, simulation examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the designed method.
Predictors of Regional Lymph Node Recurrence after Initial Thyroidectomy in Patients with Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Sharifi Amirsina , Shojaeifard Abolfazl , Soroush Ahmadreza , Jafari Mehdi , Abdehgah Ali Ghorbani , Mahmoudzade Hossein
Published: June 2016

Background.Regional lymph node recurrence (RLNR) is common in patients with thyroid cancer but clinicopathological predictors are unclear. We aimed to clarify these predictors and identify patients who would benefit from prophylactic lymph node dissection the most.Method.343 patients with different types of thyroid cancer were analyzed retrospectively. All patients underwent total thyroidectomy between 2007 and 2013.Results.The median ± interquartile range of patients’ age was 40 ± 25 years. 245 (71.4%) patients were female. Regarding the risk of regional lymph node recurrence, we found that male gender, age ≥45 years, non-PTC (i.e., medullary, follicular, and anaplastic types) histopathology, T3 (i.e., tumor size >4 cm in the greatest dimension limited to the thyroid or any tumor with minimal extrathyroid extension), stage IVa, and isolated cervical lymphadenopathy as initial manifestation (ICL) are significant risk factors. T3 (p< 0.001; odds ratio = 156.41, 95% CI [55.72–439.1]) and ICL (p< 0.001; odds ratio = 77.79, 95% CI [31.55–191.81]) were the strongest predictors of regional lymph node recurrence.Conclusion.We found easily achievable risk factors for RLNR in thyroid cancers patients. We suggested that patients with specific clinicopathological features like male gender, age ≥45 years, larger tumor size, and extrathyroidal extension be considered as prophylactic lymphadenectomy candidates.
Aberrant Resting-State Functional Connectivity Density in Patients with Hepatitis B Virus-Related Cirrhosis
Authors: Lv Xiao-Fei , Wu Hua-Wang , Tian Li , Han Lu-Jun , Li Jing , Qiu Ying-Wei , Jiang Gui-Hua , Zhang Xue-Lin , Zhang Rong , Xie Chuan-Miao
Published: June 2016

There is increasing evidence that cirrhosis may affect functional connectivity among various brain regions in patients prior to onset of overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE). However, most investigators have focused mainly on alterations in functional connectivity strengths, and the changes in functional connectivity density (FCD) are largely unknown. Here, we investigated alterations in resting-state FCD in patients with hepatitis B virus-related cirrhosis (HBV-RC) without overt HE. Totally, 31 patients with HBV-RC without overt HE and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls underwent resting-state functional MRI examinations. FCD mapping was employed to compute local and global FCD maps. Then, short-range and long-range FCD values were calculated and voxel-based comparisons were performed between the two groups. The HBV-RC group showed significant decreases in FCD, including decreased short-range FCDs in the bilateral middle cingulum gyrus/precuneus, the bilateral cuneus, and the left lingual gyrus/inferior occipital gyrus and decreased long-range FCD in the bilateral cuneus/precuneus. In addition, the decreased long-range FCD in the bilateral cuneus/precuneus in the HBV-RC group was related to performance on the psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES) test. These findings suggest aberrant functional connectivity density in cirrhotic patients prior to overt HE onset, which may provide better insight into understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the cirrhotic-related cognitive impairment.
Early Loaded Single Implant Reinforced Mandibular Overdenture
Authors: Nischal K. , Chowdhary R.
Published: June 2016

Rehabilitating atrophied mandible with two-implant supported denture is a common treatment modality for implant retained removable overdenture in mandible. This paper aims to design a treatment modality where single implant reinforced overdenture is fabricated for a severely atrophied mandibular ridge with early loading protocol. Results of studies have shown that a single implant mandibular overdenture significantly increases the satisfaction and quality of life of patients with edentulism. Midline fracture of the prosthesis is the most common complication related to single implant and two-implant retained mandibular overdentures. To manage such complication, a thin metal mesh is used to reinforce the overdenture and also to make the prostheses lighter and cost effective as compared to conventional cast metal framework.
NF-κB-Regulated miR-99a Modulates Endothelial Cell Inflammation
Authors: Bao Mei-hua , Li Jian-Ming , Luo Huai-qing , Tang Liang , Lv Qiao-li , Li Guang-yi , Zhou Hong-hao
Published: June 2016

Objective. The present study was performed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of miR-99a on LPS-induced endothelial cell inflammation, as well as the regulation of NF-κB on miR-99a production.Methods and Results. ELISA showed that LPS treatment significantly promoted the secretion of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and MCP-1). LPS treatment also inhibited miR-99a production and promoted mTOR expression and NF-κB nuclear translocation. Overexpression of miR-99a suppressed the LPS-induced TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and MCP-1 overproduction, mTOR upregulation, and NF-κB nuclear translocation. The PROMO software analysis indicated NF-κB binding site in the −1643 to −1652 region of miR-99a promoter. Dual luciferase reporter analysis, electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA), and chromosome immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays demonstrated that NF-κB promoted the transcription of miR-99a by binding to the −1643 to −1652 region of miR-99a promoter. Further studies on HUVECs verified the regulatory effects of NF-κB on miR-99a production.Conclusion. MiR-99a inhibited the LPS-induced HUVECs inflammation via inhibition of the mTOR/NF-κB signal. NF-κB promoted miR-99a production by binding to the −1643 to −1652 region of miR-99a promoter. Considering the importance of endothelial inflammation on cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis, our results may provide a new insight into the pathogenesis and therapy of atherosclerosis.
A Novel Technique for Managing Pancreaticojejunal Anastomotic Leak after Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Egeli Tufan , Unek Tarkan , Ozbilgin Mucahit , Goztok Mustafa , Astarcıoglu Ibrahim
Published: June 2016

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple’s procedure) remains the only definitive treatment option for tumors of the periampullary region. The most common and life-threatening complications following the procedure are pancreatic anastomotic leakage and subsequent fistula formation. When these complications occur, treatment strategy depends on the severity of anastomotic leakage, with patients with severe leakages requiring reoperation. The optimal surgical method used for reoperation is selected from among different options such as wide drainage, definitive demolition of the pancreaticojejunal anastomosis and performing a new one, or completion pancreatectomy. Here we present a novel, simple technique to manage severe pancreatic leakage via ligamentum teres hepatis patch.
An Improved Multiobjective PSO for the Scheduling Problem of Panel Block Construction
Authors: Yang Zhi , Liu Cungen , Wang Xuefeng , Qian Weixin
Published: June 2016

Uncertainty is common in ship construction. However, few studies have focused on scheduling problems under uncertainty in shipbuilding. This paper formulates the scheduling problem of panel block construction as a multiobjective fuzzy flow shop scheduling problem (FSSP) with a fuzzy processing time, a fuzzy due date, and the just-in-time (JIT) concept. An improved multiobjective particle swarm optimization called MOPSO-M is developed to solve the scheduling problem. MOPSO-M utilizes a ranked-order-value rule to convert the continuous position of particles into the discrete permutations of jobs, and an available mapping is employed to obtain the precedence-based permutation of the jobs. In addition, to improve the performance of MOPSO-M, archive maintenance is combined with global best position selection, and mutation and a velocity constriction mechanism are introduced into the algorithm. The feasibility and effectiveness of MOPSO-M are assessed in comparison with general MOPSO and nondominated sorting genetic algorithm-II (NSGA-II).
Effects of Sohamhyoong‐Tang on Ovalbumin‐Induced Allergic Reaction in BALB/c Mice
Authors: Jo So Hyun , Lee Yun Jung , Kang Dae Gill , Lee Ho Sub , Kim Dae Ki , Park Min Cheol
Published: June 2016

IgE‐mediated mast cell degranulation and excessive Th2 cells activation are major features of various allergic diseases. Sohamhyoong-tang has been reported to have anti‐inflammatory and antibacterial effects. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of Sohamhyoong-tang extract (SHHTE) on allergic symptoms and inflammatory responses in ovalbumin‐ (OVA‐) sensitized BALB/c mice. The mice were sensitized with OVA and alum at 2‐week intervals and then orally given SHHTE for 13 days followed by intradermal OVA injection. Administration of SHHTE significantly reduced edema formation and inflammatory‐cell infiltration in ear tissues. Total and OVA‐specific IgEs as well as proinflammatory cytokine TNF‐α and Th2‐associated cytokine IL‐4 levels were lower in the SHHTE‐treated group than in the vehicle. SHHTE treatment significantly suppressed both mRNA and protein levels of IL‐4 and IL‐5 in OVA‐stimulated splenocytes. SHHTE decreased Th1 (IFN‐γ) and Th17 (IL‐17a) cytokine mRNA expression but increased Treg cytokines (IL‐10 and TGF‐β1). Moreover, SHHTE significantly inhibited degranulation of RBL‐2H3 cell line in a dose‐dependent manner. Thus, SHHTE efficiently inhibited the allergic symptoms in an OVA‐sensitized mouse model and its action may correlate with the suppression of IgE production by increasing IL‐10 and TGF‐β1, which can limit the function of other T helper cells and prevent the release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells. These results suggest that SHHTE could be a therapeutic agent for treating various allergic diseases.
A Pathological Analysis of Canaliculitis Concretions: More Than JustActinomyces
Authors: Perumal Balaji , Carlson John Andrew , Meyer Dale Robert
Published: June 2016

Purpose.Canaliculitis is classically associated withActinomycesspecies, which are filamentous bacteria; the purpose of this study was to evaluate the extent to which nonfilamentous bacteria colonize canalicular concretions by using graded histopathological analysis.Methods.This is a series of 16 cases. The percentage of Gram-positive/Gomori’s methenamine silver-positive filamentous bacteria (Actinomyces) versus the total bacteria identified was graded, and the types of bacteria seen were recorded. Nonfilamentous bacteria were categorized based upon Gram stain (positive or negative) and morphology (cocci or rods).Results. There were 11 females and 5 males. Nonfilamentous bacteria were identified in 16 of 16 (100%) specimens and filamentous bacteria were identified in 15 of 16 (94%) specimens. The mean percentage of filamentous bacteria relative to total bacteria was 57%. Regarding the nonfilamentous bacteria present, 69% of specimens had Gram-positive cocci only, 25% had Gram-positive and Gram-negative cocci, and 6% had Gram-positive cocci and Gram-positive rods.Conclusion. In the current study, there was a mix of filamentous and nonfilamentous bacteria in almost all canalicular concretions analyzed. Nonfilamentous bacteria may contribute to the pathogenesis of canaliculitis. In addition, the success of bacterial culture can be variable; therefore, pathological analysis can assist in determining the etiology.
Comparison between a New Optical Biometry Device and an Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomographer for Measuring Central Corneal Thickness and Anterior Chamber Depth
Authors: Huang Jinhai , Lu Weicong , Savini Giacomo , Chen Hao , Wang Chengfang , Yu Xinxin , Bao Fangjun , Wang Qinmei
Published: June 2016

Purpose.To compare between a new optical biometer (AL-Scan, Nidek Co., Aichi, Japan) and an anterior segment optical coherence tomographer (Visante AS-OCT, Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, USA) for measuring central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), and aqueous depth (AD).Methods.Sixty-three eyes of 63 normal subjects were examined with AL-Scan and Visante AS-OCT in this prospective study. One eye per subject was measured three times with both devices to record their CCT, ACD, and AD. All procedures were performed by the same operator. Agreement between the two devices was assessed using pairedt-tests, Bland-Altman plots, and 95% limits of agreement (LoA).Results.The mean CCT, ACD, and AD measured by AL-Scan were538.59±27.37 μm,3.70±0.30 mm, and3.16±0.30 mm, respectively. The mean values obtained by the Visante OCT were536.14±26.61 μm for CCT,3.71±0.29 mm for ACD, and3.17±0.29 mm for AD. The mean CCT by the AL-Scan was higher than that obtained by the Visante AS-OCT (difference =2.45±6.07 μm,P<0.05). The differences in ACD and AD measurements were not statistically significant. The 95% LoA of CCT, ACD, and AD were between −9.44 and 14.35 μm, −0.15 and 0.12 mm, and −0.15 and 0.12 mm, respectively.Conclusions.Since these two devices were comparable for measuring CCT, ACD, and AD, their results can be interchangeably used in the clinic.
Stroke Risk among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Zhejiang: A Population-Based Prospective Study in China
Authors: Guo Lihua , Yu Min , Zhong Jieming , Wu Haibin , Pan Jin , Gong Weiwei , Wang Meng , Fei Fangrong , Hu Ruying
Published: June 2016

Objective. This study aimed to explore the incidence of stroke and stroke subtypes among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) based on the long-term surveillance data in Zhejiang, China, during 2007 to 2013.Materials and Methods. During January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2013, a total of 327,268 T2DM and 307,984 stroke patients were registered on Diabetes and Stroke Surveillance System, respectively. Stroke subtypes were classified according to standard definitions of subarachnoid hemorrhage, intracerebral hemorrhage, and ischemic stroke. The incidence of stroke and stroke subtypes was calculated by standardized incidence ratio (SIRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) compared with general population.Results. The incidence of stroke and stroke subtypes among patients with T2DM was significantly higher than in general population. Stroke risk was found significantly increased with an SIR of 3.87 (95% CI 3.76–3.99) and 3.38 (95% CI 3.27–3.48) in females and males, respectively. The excess risk of stroke was mainly attributable to the significantly higher risk of cerebral infarctions with the risk for T2DM being four times that for general population.Conclusions. The relationship between stroke and T2DM was strong, especially in female. The incidence of stroke and stroke subtypes among patients with T2DM was up to 3-fold higher than in general population in Zhejiang province, especially the subtype of cerebral infarctions.
Synthesis of Highly Sulfonated Poly(arylene ether) Containing Multiphenyl for Proton Exchange Membrane Materials
Authors: Huang Yi-Chiang , Tai Ruei-Hong , Lee Hsu-Feng , Wang Po-Hsun , Gopal Ram , Lee Chun-Che , Chang Mei-Ying , Huang Wen-Yao
Published: June 2016

A series of sterically hindered, sulfonated, poly(arylene ether) polymers were synthesized by nucleophilic polycondensation reaction using 4,4′′′′-difluoro-3,3′′′′-bistrifluoromethyl-2′′,3′′,5′′,6′′-tetraphenyl-[1,1′;4′,1′′;4′′,1′′′;4′′′,1′′′′]-pentaphenyl and 4,4′-biphenol and were prepared through postpolymerization sulfonation. The chemical structures were confirmed by1H NMR. Subsequent to sulfonation, solvent-casting membranes were provided ion exchange capacity (IEC) values ranging from 0.39 to 2.90 mmol/g. Proton conductivities of membranes ranged from 143 to 228 mS/cm at 80°C under fully humidified conditions which were higher than that of Nafion 117. The membrane also exhibited considerably dimension stability, oxidative stability, and hydrolytic stability. The microphase structure was investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and the ionic aggregation of sulfonic acid groups exhibited spherical ionic clusters with well-developed phase separated morphology. The results indicated that the membranes are promising candidates for application as proton exchange membranes. This investigation demonstrates introducing multiphenylated moieties to create a high free volume polymer that provides dimensionally stable and high proton conductivity membranes.
A New Systematic Vibrotactile Rendering for Touchscreen Mobile Devices
Authors: Park Won-Hyeong , Kim Da-hye , Kyung Ki-uk , Kim Sang-Youn
Published: June 2016

This paper proposes visuotactile primitives with vibrotactile properties for a more systematic haptic representation of virtual objects in touchscreen mobile devices. We define a DOT, a LINE, and a SURFACE as tactile symbols of hitting a small bump, flicking a string, and rubbing a textured surface, respectively. The combination of the proposed primitives induces a more efficient design process for providing various tactile properties of virtual objects to a user. We did experiments to evaluate whether the proposed method haptically represents virtual objects. The results show that the proposed visuotactile primitives can be applied to the haptic representation of graphical objects.
The Relation between Serum Uric Acid and HbA1c Is Dependent upon Hyperinsulinemia in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Cui Yuliang , Bu Hemei , Ma Xianghua , Zhao Sha , Li Xiaona , Lu Shan
Published: June 2016

Objective. The aim of our study was to explore the dependent condition of the relationship between uric acid and blood glucose in type 2 diabetes.Research Design and Methods. We measured the HbA1c, serum uric acid, creatinine, lipids profiles, and so forth of 605 newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients, and oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs) were performed on each patient. The population was divided into high and low insulin groups. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to assess the relationship between uric acid and HbA1c.Results. Serum uric acid and HbA1c levels were low in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients. However, we found no significant relationship between uric acid and HbA1c by regression analysis after adjusting total insulin. The concentration of uric acid was inversely correlated with HbA1c in the high insulin group, regardless of patient sex. However, no associations were found in low insulin group.Conclusions. The negative correlation between uric acid and HbA1c is conditional in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients and is related to hyperinsulinemia. Therefore, uric acid is likely only useful as a biomarker of blood glucose in patients exhibiting hyperinsulinemia.
Comparison of Inflammatory Response to Transgastric and Transcolonic NOTES
Authors: Hucl Tomas , Benes Marek , Kocik Matej , Splichalova Alla , Maluskova Jana , Krak Martin , Lanska Vera , Heczkova Marie , Kieslichova Eva , Oliverius Martin , Spicak Julius
Published: June 2016

Aims.The aim of our study was to determine the physiologic impact of NOTES and to compare the transgastric and transcolonic approaches.Methods.Thirty pigs were randomized to transgastric, transcolonic, or laparoscopic peritoneoscopy. Blood was drawn and analyzed for C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), interleukin- (IL-) 1β, IL-6, WBCs, and platelets.Results.Endoscopic closure with an OTSC was successful in all 20 animals. The postoperative course was uneventful in all animals. CRP values rose on day 1 in all animals and slowly declined to baseline levels on day 14 with no differences between the groups (P>0.05, NS). The levels of TNF-αwere significantly increased in the transcolonic group (P<0.01); however this difference was already present prior to the procedure and remained unchanged. No differences were observed in IL1-βand IL-6 values. There was a temporary rise of WBC on day 1 and of platelets on day 7 in all groups (P>0.05, NS).Conclusions.Transgastric, transcolonic, and laparoscopic peritoneoscopy resulted in similar changes in systemic inflammatory markers. Our findings do not support the assumption that NOTES is less invasive than laparoscopy.
Bilateral Morgagni Hernia: A Unique Presentation of a Rare Pathology
Authors: Leshen Michael , Richardson Randy
Published: June 2016

Morgagni hernia is an unusual congenital herniation of abdominal content through the triangular parasternal gaps of the anterior diaphragm. They are commonly asymptomatic and right-sided. We present a case of a bilateral Morgagni hernia resulting in delayed growth in a 10-month-old boy. The presentation was unique due to its bilateral nature and its symptomatic compression of the mediastinum. Diagnosis was made by 3D reconstructed CT angiogram. The patient underwent medical optimization until he was safely able to tolerate laparoscopic surgical repair of his hernia. Upon laparoscopy, the CT findings were confirmed and the hernia was repaired.
Treating Woman with Myo-Inositol Vaginal Suppositories Improves Partner’s Sperm Motility and Fertility
Authors: Montanino Oliva Mario , Poverini Roberta , Lisi Rosella , Carra Maria Cristina , Lisi Franco
Published: June 2016

Motility is the feature that allows spermatozoa to actively reach and penetrate the female gamete during fertilization. When this function is altered, and especially decreased, troubles in conceiving may occur. In this study, we demonstrated that treating fertile women with myo-inositol (MI) vaginal suppositories ameliorated their partners’ sperm motility and also positively affected their conceiving capacity, without changes in cervical mucus structural and biochemical characteristics. Indeed, by means of the postcoital test on female cervical mucus, a significant improvement especially in progressive sperm motility was recorded after MI suppository use. Concomitantly, after MI treatment, a reduction of immotile spermatozoa percentage was observed. Importantly, MI vaginal supplementation positively correlated with a pregnancy for 5 of the 50 couples enrolled in the study, leading us to speculate that this substance may substantially contribute to create in the cervical mucus an idealmilieuthat makes spermatozoa more motile and functionally able to fertilize. Even though the detailed mechanism is still unclear, these results should encourage MI vaginal use for the clinical improvement of male infertility, through their partners.
The Influence of Amplitude- and Frequency-Dependent Stiffness of Rail Pads on the Random Vibration of a Vehicle-Track Coupled System
Authors: Wei Kai , Zhang Pan , Wang Ping , Xiao Junhua , Luo Zhe
Published: June 2016

The nonlinear curves between the external static loads of Thermoplastic Polyurethane Elastomer (TPE) rail pads and their compressive deformations were measured. A finite element model (FEM) for a rail-fastener system was produced to determine the nonlinear compressive deformations of TPE rail pads and their nonlinear static stiffness under the static vehicle weight and the preload of rail fastener. Next, the vertical vehicle-track coupled model was employed to investigate the influence of the amplitude- and frequency-dependent stiffness of TPE rail pads on the vehicle-track random vibration. It is found that the static stiffness of TPE rail pads ranges from 19.1 to 37.9 kN/mm, apparently different from the classical secant stiffness of 26.7 kN/mm. Additionally, compared with the nonlinear amplitude- and frequency-dependent stiffness of rail pads, the classical secant stiffness would not only severely underestimate the random vibration acceleration levels of wheel-track coupled system at frequencies of 65–150 Hz but also alter the dominant frequency-distribution of vehicle wheel and steel rail. Considering that these frequencies of 65–150 Hz are the dominant frequencies of ground vibration accelerations caused by low-speed railway, the nonlinear amplitude- and frequency-dependent stiffness of rail pads should be taken into account in prediction of environment vibrations due to low-speed railway.
Dimension Analysis-Based Model for Prediction of Shale Compressive Strength
Authors: Fan Xiangyu , Xu Fenglin , Chen Lin , Chen Qiao , Liu Zhiwei , Yao Guanghua , Nie Wen
Published: June 2016

The compressive strength of shale is a comprehensive index for evaluating the shale strength, which is linked to shale well borehole stability. Based on correlation analysis between factors (confining stress, height/diameter ratio, bedding angle, and porosity) and shale compressive strength (Longmaxi Shale in Sichuan Basin, China), we develop a dimension analysis-based model for prediction of shale compressive strength. A nonlinear-regression model is used for comparison. A multitraining method is used to achieve reliability of model prediction. The results show that, compared to a multi-nonlinear-regression model (average prediction error = 19.5%), the average prediction error of the dimension analysis-based model is 19.2%. More importantly, our dimension analysis-based model needs to determine only one parameter, whereas the multi-nonlinear-regression model needs to determine five. In addition, sensitivity analysis shows that height/diameter ratio has greater sensitivity to compressive strength than other factors.
Effect of TongXie‐YaoFang on Cl− and HCO3 - Transport in Diarrhea‐Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome Rats
Authors: Lu Xiaofang , Zhang Shengsheng , Yang Cheng , Wang Zhengfang , Zhao Luqing , Wu Zhenyu , Xie Jing
Published: June 2016

TongXie‐YaoFang (TXYF) can effectively alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea‐predominant irritable bowel syndrome (D‐IBS) patients. However, the curative mechanism has not been fully clarified. The study was designed to investigate the effect of TXYF on the colonic ion transport induced by serotonin (5‐HT) in D‐IBS rats. A method of multiple stress (neonatal maternal separation (NMS) combined with restraint stress (RS)) was used to induce the D‐IBS model. The model rats were randomly divided into two groups: NMS + RS group and TXYF‐formula group, and the normal control (no handling) rats were classified as NH group. In the NMS + RS group, the change of short‐circuit current (ΔIsc) induced by 5‐HT was lower than that in the NH and TXYF‐formula groups. After removing of the extracellular Cl− or or basolateral Na+ or blocking the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), Na+‐K+‐2Cl− cotransporter (NKCC), cotransporter, exchanger, K+ channel, or Na+/K+‐ATPase, respectively, there was no difference in 5‐HT‐induced ΔIsc among the three groups. These data suggest that TXYF can regulate 5‐HT‐induced Cl− and secretion, possibly mediated by the combined action of CFTR, NKCC, Na+‐ cotransporter, exchanger, K+ channel, and Na+/K+‐ATPase.
Therapeutic Potential of Dental Pulp Stem Cell Secretome for Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Ahmed Nermeen El-Moataz Bellah , Murakami Masashi , Hirose Yujiro , Nakashima Misako
Published: June 2016

The secretome obtained from stem cell cultures contains an array of neurotrophic factors and cytokines that might have the potential to treat neurodegenerative conditions. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most common human late onset and sporadic neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential of secretome derived from dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) to reduce cytotoxicity and apoptosis caused by amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide. We determined whether DPSCs can secrete the Aβ‐degrading enzyme, neprilysin (NEP), and evaluated the effects of NEP expression in vitro by quantitating Aβ‐degrading activity. The results showed that DPSC secretome contains higher concentrations of VEGF, Fractalkine, RANTES, MCP‐1, and GM‐CSF compared to those of bone marrow and adipose stem cells. Moreover, treatment with DPSC secretome significantly decreased the cytotoxicity of Aβ peptide by increasing cell viability compared to nontreated cells. In addition, DPSC secretome stimulated the endogenous survival factor Bcl‐2 and decreased the apoptotic regulator Bax. Furthermore, neprilysin enzyme was detected in DPSC secretome and succeeded in degrading Aβ1–42 in vitro in 12 hours. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that DPSCs may serve as a promising source for secretome‐based treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
A Control Method for Balancing the SoC of Distributed Batteries in Islanded Converter-Interfaced Microgrids
Authors: Gkavanoudis Spyros I. , Oureilidis Konstantinos O. , Kryonidis Georgios C. , Demoulias Charis S.
Published: June 2016

In a low-voltage islanded microgrid powered by renewable energy sources, the energy storage systems (ESSs) are considered necessary, in order to maintain the power balance. Since a microgrid can be composed of several distributed ESSs (DESSs), a coordinated control of their state-of-charge (SoC) should be implemented, ensuring the prolonged lifespan. This paper proposes a new decentralized control method for balancing the SoC of DESSs in islanded microgrids, without physical communication. Each DESS injects a current distortion at 175 Hz, when its SoC changes by 10%. This distortion is recognized by every DESS, through a phase-locked loop (PLL). In order to distinguish the origin of the distortion, each DESS injects a distortion of different time duration. This intermediate frequency has been selected in order to avoid the concurrence with the usual harmonics. The DESSs take advantage of this information and inject a current proportional to the SoC. Implementing this strategy, a comparable number of charging/discharging cycles for each DESS are achieved. Furthermore, an active filter operation, implemented in the dq rotating frame for each individual harmonic, is integrated in the control of the distributed generation units, supplying nonlinear loads with high-quality voltage. The effectiveness of this method is verified by detailed simulation results.
The Current Status of Somatostatin-Interneurons in Inhibitory Control of Brain Function and Plasticity
Authors: Scheyltjens Isabelle , Arckens Lutgarde
Published: June 2016

The mammalian neocortex contains many distinct inhibitory neuronal populations to balance excitatory neurotransmission. A correct excitation/inhibition equilibrium is crucial for normal brain development, functioning, and controlling lifelong cortical plasticity. Knowledge about how the inhibitory network contributes to brain plasticity however remains incomplete. Somatostatin- (SST-) interneurons constitute a large neocortical subpopulation of interneurons, next to parvalbumin- (PV-) and vasoactive intestinal peptide- (VIP-) interneurons. Unlike the extensively studied PV-interneurons, acknowledged as key components in guiding ocular dominance plasticity, the contribution of SST-interneurons is less understood. Nevertheless, SST-interneurons are ideally situated within cortical networks to integrate unimodal or cross-modal sensory information processing and therefore likely to be important mediators of experience-dependent plasticity. The lack of knowledge on SST-interneurons partially relates to the wide variety of distinct subpopulations present in the sensory neocortex. This review informs on those SST-subpopulations hitherto described based on anatomical, molecular, or electrophysiological characteristics and whose functional roles can be attributed based on specific cortical wiring patterns. A possible role for these subpopulations in experience-dependent plasticity will be discussed, emphasizing on learning-induced plasticity and on unimodal and cross-modal plasticity upon sensory loss. This knowledge will ultimately contribute to guide brain plasticity into well-defined directions to restore sensory function and promote lifelong learning.
Oral Candidiasis among Cancer Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital in Chennai, South India: An Evaluation of Clinicomycological Association and Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern
Authors: Jayachandran Abirami Lakshmy , Katragadda Radhika , Thyagarajan Ravinder , Vajravelu Leela , Manikesi Suganthi , Kaliappan Shanmugam , Jayachandran Balaji
Published: June 2016

Oropharyngeal candidiasis is one of the common manifestations seen in cancer patients on cytotoxic therapy and invasion into deeper tissues can occur if not treated promptly. Emergence of antifungal drug resistance is of serious concern owing to the associated morbidity and mortality. The present study aims at evaluation of clinicomycological association and antifungal drug susceptibility among the 180 recruited patients with cancer on chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy with signs or symptoms suggestive of oral candidiasis. Speciation and antifungal susceptibility was done by Microbroth dilution method for fluconazole, Itraconazole, and Amphotericin B as per standard microbiological techniques. Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis (p<0.05was considered statistically significant).Candida albicanswas the predominant species isolated (94) (58%) followed byCandida tropicalis(34) (20.9%). Fluconazole and Itraconazole showed an overall resistance rate of 14% and 14.8%, respectively. All the isolates were susceptible to Amphotericin B. There was a significant association between the presence of dry mouth and isolation ofCandida(p<0.001). Such clinicomicrobiological associations can help in associating certain symptoms with the isolation ofCandida. Species level identification with in vitro antifungal susceptibility pattern is essential to choose the appropriate drug and to predict the outcome of therapy.
Research Progress on Chemical Constituents ofLonicerae japonicae flos
Authors: Wang Lingna , Jiang Qiu , Hu Jinghong , Zhang Yongqing , Li Jia
Published: June 2016

Lonicerae japonicae flosis commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years with confirmed curative effects. Except for medicine, it is also used in healthy food, cosmetics, and soft beverages for its specific activities. Therefore, the chemical constituents, mainly including organic acids, flavonoids, iridoids, triterpenoids, and volatile oils, have been well studied by many scholars in recent years and a comprehensive and systematic review on chemical constituents ofLonicerae japonicae flosis indispensable. This paper aims at reviewing the chemical components of LJF in recent years through searching for the literatures both at home and abroad. Our results show that 212 components have been isolated fromLonicerae japonicae flos, including 27 flavonoids, 40 organic acids, 83 iridoids, 17 triterpenoids, and 45 other compounds, which could lay a foundation for the further application ofLonicerae japonicae flos.