bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experience with Renal Autotransplantation: Typical and Atypical Indications
Authors: Bourgi Ali , Aoun Rana , Ayoub Elias , Moukarzel Maroun
Published: March 2018

Introduction and Objectives. Renal autotransplantation is a kidney-saving surgical procedure used in selected patients. The purpose of this report is to review nine typical and atypical indications for kidney autotransplantation and evaluate its effectiveness in maintaining kidney function and avoiding cancer recurrence. Materials and Methods. From 1999 till 2014, nine renal autotransplantations were performed in our center. A retrospective case review was done. Four of nine patients had a solitary functioning kidney. Typical indications for autotransplantation included extended ureteric disease in 5 patients, intrasinusal tumor on a solitary kidney in 1 patient, and renal artery aneurysm in 1 patient. Atypical indications consisted in bilateral urothelial tumors in 1 patient and interrupted live kidney transplantation in 1 patient. Mean cold ischemia time was 209 minutes. Demographic factors, indications, renal function before and after surgery, and in the long term, cancer recurrence and disease-free survival were evaluated. Results. Renal function was maintained in 8 patients during the early follow-up. No serious complications occurred in the postoperative period. Median duration of follow-up was 50 months. In 4 patients with a normal contralateral kidney, mean preoperative and at discharge creatinine clearance were 105.45 ml/min and 121.02 ml/min, respectively. Although values showed an improvement in the kidney function, the difference was not significant (p value 0.3). In the other 4 patients with a solitary kidney, mean discharge creatinine clearance was 99.24 ml/min surprisingly higher than the preoperative value 96.92 ml/min. At the last follow-up, kidney function was preserved for the two groups (normal contralateral kidney/solitary kidney) with relatively stable creatinine clearance values: 108.45 ml/min and 85.9 ml/min, respectively. No patients required secondary dialysis. Conclusion. Renal autotransplantation is a rare, safe, and effective surgical procedure for the treatment of complex urologic conditions. In some instances, it may be of great utility for kidney salvage in some carefully selected patients.
The Role of Migration in Maintaining the Transmission of Avian Influenza in Waterfowl: A Multisite Multispecies Transmission Model along East Asian-Australian Flyway
Authors: Endo Akira , Nishiura Hiroshi
Published: March 2018

Background. Migratory waterfowl annually migrate over the continents along the routes known as flyways, serving as carriers of avian influenza virus across distant locations. Prevalence of influenza varies with species, and there are also geographical and temporal variations. However, the role of long-distance migration in multispecies transmission dynamics has yet to be understood. We constructed a mathematical model to capture the global dynamics of avian influenza, identifying species and locations that contribute to sustaining transmission.Methods. We devised a multisite, multispecies SIS (susceptible-infectious-susceptible) model, and estimated transmission rates within and between species in each geographical location from prevalence data. Parameters were directly sampled from posterior distribution under Bayesian inference framework. We then analyzed contribution of each species in each location to the global patterns of influenza transmission.Results. Transmission and migration parameters were estimated by Bayesian posterior sampling. The basic reproduction number was estimated at 1.1, slightly above the endemic threshold. Mallard was found to be the most important host with the highest transmission potential, and high- and middle-latitude regions appeared to act as hotspots of influenza transmission. The local reproduction number suggested that the prevalence of avian influenza in the Oceania region is dependent on the inflow of infected birds from other regions.Conclusion. Mallard exhibited the highest transmission rate among the species explored. Migration was suggested to be a key factor of the global prevalence of avian influenza, as transmission is locally sustainable only in the northern hemisphere, and the virus could be extinct in the Oceania region without migration.
Quality Parameters, Volatile Composition, and Sensory Profiles of Highly Endangered Spanish Citrus Fruits
Authors: Cano-Lamadrid Marina , Lipan Leontina , Hernández Francisca , Martínez Juan José , Legua Pilar , Carbonell-Barrachina Ángel A. , Melgarejo Pablo
Published: March 2018

There is very little information available on the chemical composition and the quality attributes of the citrus species studied which are truly endangered in Spain. None of the fruits studied is available for commercial purposes, which is the main interest and novelty of this study. The aim of this work was to fully describe the morphology, volatile composition, and sensory profile of traditional citrus fruits: sour lime (SoLi), sweet lime (SwLi), and sweet lemon (SwLe), to have the information to convince farmers and growers to cultivate these fruits again. The predominant sugar was fructose while citric acid prevails in SoLi and SwLe. Regarding volatiles compounds, monoterpenes, monoterpenoids, and esters predominated in the juices, and these three families plus sesquiterpenes in the peels. The juice of SoLi presented the highest content of esters (14.8%), SwLi juice presented similar values of both monoterpenes and monoterpenoids (46.1 and 46.0%, resp.), and SwLe juice had the highest content of monoterpenes (72.2%). The results demonstrated the high potential of these citrus materials for the agrofood industry. Therefore, it will be possible to recover these vegetal materials at risk of disappearing for potential uses by the food industry and simultaneously help maintaining the biodiversity.
Notch Signaling Pathway Is Inhibited in the Development of Barrett’s Esophagus: An In Vivo and In Vitro Study
Authors: Wang Yun-Cang , Wang Zhi-Qiang , Yuan Yong , Ren Tao , Ni Peng-Zhi , Chen Long-Qi
Published: March 2018

Objective. To explore the role of Notch signaling in the development of Barrett’s esophagus. Methods. Patients with esophagectomy and gastric interposition were recruited as a human model of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The expressions of Notch signaling genes in normal esophagus from surgical specimen and columnar metaplasia in the esophageal remnant after esophagectomy were evaluated by real time quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). For in vitro experiments, Het-1A cells were treated with hydrochloric acid, deoxycholic acid, mixture of hydrochloric acid and deoxycholic acid, or Notch1-siRNA, and expressions of Notch1, Hes1, MUC2, and K13 were evaluated via RT-qPCR and western blot. Results. Samples were obtained from 36 patients with columnar metaplasia in the esophageal remnant. Both IHC and RT-qPCR indicated that Notch1 and Hes1 expressions were significantly higher in normal esophagus than that in metaplasia. Hydrochloric acid and deoxycholic acid suppressed Notch1, Hes1, and K13 expressions, in concert with increasing MUC2 expressions. Notch inhibition by Notch1-siRNA contributed to the downregulation of Notch1, Hes1, and K13 expressions, whereas MUC2 expression was enhanced. Conclusions. Both hydrochloric acid and deoxycholic acid could suppress Notch signaling pathway in esophageal epithelial cells, and inhibited Notch signaling has important functions in the development of Barrett’s esophagus.
Cognitive Training and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Mild Cognitive Impairment in Parkinson’s Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lawrence Blake J. , Gasson Natalie , Johnson Andrew R. , Booth Leon , Loftus Andrea M.
Published: March 2018

This study examined whether standard cognitive training, tailored cognitive training, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), standard cognitive training + tDCS, or tailored cognitive training + tDCS improved cognitive function and functional outcomes in participants with PD and mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI). Forty-two participants with PD-MCI were randomized to one of six groups: (1) standard cognitive training, (2) tailored cognitive training, (3) tDCS, (4) standard cognitive training + tDCS, (5) tailored cognitive training + tDCS, or (6) a control group. Interventions lasted 4 weeks, with cognitive and functional outcomes measured at baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up. The trial was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR:12614001039673). While controlling for moderator variables, Generalized Linear Mixed Models (GLMMs) showed that when compared to the control group, the intervention groups demonstrated variable statistically significant improvements across executive function, attention/working memory, memory, language, activities of daily living (ADL), and quality of life (QOL; Hedge’sgrange = 0.01 to 1.75). More outcomes improved for the groups that received standard or tailored cognitive training combined with tDCS. Participants with PD-MCI receiving cognitive training (standard or tailored) or tDCS demonstrated significant improvements on cognitive and functional outcomes, and combining these interventions provided greater therapeutic effects.
Rolling Bearing Fault Diagnosis Using Modified Neighborhood Preserving Embedding and Maximal Overlap Discrete Wavelet Packet Transform with Sensitive Features Selection
Authors: Dong Fei , Yu Xiao , Ding Enjie , Wu Shoupeng , Fan Chunyang , Huang Yanqiu
Published: March 2018

In order to enhance the performance of bearing fault diagnosis and classification, features extraction and features dimensionality reduction have become more important. The original statistical feature set was calculated from single branch reconstruction vibration signals obtained by using maximal overlap discrete wavelet packet transform (MODWPT). In order to reduce redundancy information of original statistical feature set, features selection by adjusted rand index and sum of within‐class mean deviations (FSASD) was proposed to select fault sensitive features. Furthermore, a modified features dimensionality reduction method, supervised neighborhood preserving embedding with label information (SNPEL), was proposed to realize low‐dimensional representations for high‐dimensional feature space. Finally, vibration signals collected from two experimental test rigs were employed to evaluate the performance of the proposed procedure. The results show that the effectiveness, adaptability, and superiority of the proposed procedure can serve as an intelligent bearing fault diagnosis system.
Miniaturized Printed Inverted-F Antenna for Internet of Things: A Design on PCB with a Meandering Line and Shorting Strip
Authors: Cheung Cheuk Yin , Yuen Joseph S. M. , Mung Steve W. Y.
Published: March 2018

This paper focuses on a printed inverted-F antenna (PIFA) with meandering line and meandering shorting strip under 2.4 GHz industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) band for Internet of things (IoT) applications. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology is one of potential platforms and technologies for IoT applications under ISM band. Printed circuit board (PCB) antenna commonly used in commercial and medical applications because of its small size, low profile, and low cost compared to low temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) technology. The proposed structure of PIFA is implemented on PCB to gain all these advantages. Replacing conventional PCB line in PIFA by the meandering line and meandering shorting strip improves the efficiency of the PIFA as well as the bandwidth. As a case study, design and measurement results of the proposed PIFA are presented.
Rare but Not Infrequent: Infective Endocarditis Caused byAbiotrophia defectiva
Authors: Chowdhury Sonia , German Matthew L.
Published: March 2018

Endocarditis (IE) is defined by an infection of a native or prosthetic heart valve, the mural endocardium, or an indwelling cardiac device. Although viridan-group streptococci (VGS) andStaphylococcispecies have collectively been considered as the most common cause of endocarditis, uncommon pathogens may also lead to the disease with significant morbidity and mortality.Abiotrophia defectiva, a nutritionally variant streptococci (NVS), is a virulent bacterium that preferentially affects endovascular structure and is implicated in many culture-negative endocarditis with dreadful complications such as heart failure, septic embolization, and valve destruction. Here, we report a case of a 60-year-old male patient, with a past medical history significant for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, who was incidentally found to have mitral valve vegetative mass with an uncommon agent,A. defectiva. The patient was successfully treated with antimicrobial therapy. The objective of this article is to describe the possibility of uncommon cause of common diseases and raises awareness of infective endocarditis caused byA. defectivaamong clinicians and microbiologists. Early and proper identification of this pathogen is important to achieve a better outcome.
Phytobezoar: A Brief Report with Surgical and Radiological Correlation
Authors: Hirji Sameer A. , Robertson Faith C. , Chao Grace F. , Khurana Bharti , Gates Jonathan D.
Published: March 2018

Gastrointestinal bezoars, collections of incompletely digested material within the alimentary tract, can present as a diagnostic challenge and should be considered in the differential diagnosis and management of small bowel obstruction, ischemic bowel, or bowel perforation. We present a case of a 37-year-old man with a distant history of laparotomy for superior mesenteric artery thrombosis requiring partial small bowel resection of the jejunum who presented with worsening abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and hematemesis. An abdominal computed tomography revealed dilated loops of small bowel with a transition point at the ileum, distal to his prior bowel anastomosis. He was managed initially nonoperatively, but persistent vomiting and worsening distention necessitated urgent exploratory laparotomy. During the procedure, a 4 cm by 3 cm phytobezoar was discovered at the midjejunum. The patient had an unremarkable postoperative course with no further symptoms at 1-year follow-up. Timely diagnosis and treatment of bezoar is essential to minimize patient complications.
Hesitant Probabilistic Fuzzy Preference Relations in Decision Making
Authors: Bashir Zia , Rashid Tabasam , Iqbal Mobashir
Published: March 2018

Preference of an alternative over another alternative is a useful way to express the opinion of decision maker. In the process of group decision making, preference relations are used in preference modelling of the alternatives under given criteria. The probability is an important tool to deal with uncertainty; in many scenarios of decision making probabilities of different events affect the decision making process directly. In order to deal with this issue, in this paper, hesitant probabilistic fuzzy preference relation (HPFPR) is defined. Furthermore, consistency of HPFPR and consensus among decision makers are studied in the hesitant probabilistic fuzzy environment. In this respect, many novel algorithms are developed to achieve consistency of HPFPRs and reasonable consensus between decision makers and a final algorithm is proposed comprehending all other algorithms, presenting a complete decision support model for group decision making. Lastly, we present a case study with complete illustration of the proposed model and discussed the effects of probabilities on decision making validating the importance of the introduction of probability in hesitant fuzzy preference relation.
Plasma Chemerin Levels Are Increased in ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients with High Thrombus Burden
Authors: Ateş Ahmet Hakan , Arslan Uğur , Aksakal Aytekin , Yanık Ahmet , Özdemir Metin , Kul Selim
Published: March 2018

Objective. To investigate plasma chemerin levels in ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients and find out possible relationships between plasma chemerin levels and angiographic characteristics. Patients and Methods. Ninety-seven consecutive patients who presented with STEMI and underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with coronary stents were enrolled, and 30 age- and sex-matched patients with stable angina pectoris who underwent coronary angiography formed the control group. Angiographic characteristics of the patients including thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) thrombus and Gensini scores were noted. Blood samples were taken to detect several biochemical markers including plasma chemerin levels at the admission to hospital. Results. Serum chemerin and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were significantly increased in patients with STEMI. Among STEMI patients, serum chemerin levels were significantly higher in patients with high thrombus burden (581.5 ± 173.7 versus 451.3 ± 101.2 mg/dL, p<0.001). CRP levels and peak creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) levels were higher, and left ventricular ejection fraction and post-PCI TIMI flow were lower in patients with high thrombus burden. After multivariate analysis, serum chemerin levels were also higher in patients with high thrombus grade (odds ratio: 1.009 (1.005–1.014), p<0.001). Besides, serum chemerin levels were also found to be significantly correlated with CRP r=0.47,p<0.001 and peak CK-MB r=0.376,p<0.001 levels. Conclusions. Results from our study have demonstrated for the first time that chemerin levels were higher in STEMI patients with greater thrombus burden and higher level of inflammation.
Molecular Genetics of Pigment Dispersion Syndrome and Pigmentary Glaucoma: New Insights into Mechanisms
Authors: Lahola-Chomiak Adrian A. , Walter Michael A.
Published: March 2018

We explore the ideas and advances surrounding the genetic basis of pigment dispersion syndrome (PDS) and pigmentary glaucoma (PG). As PG is the leading cause of nontraumatic blindness in young adults and current tailored interventions have proven ineffective, a better understanding of the underlying causes of PDS, PG, and their relationship is essential. Despite PDS being a subclinical disease, a large proportion of patients progress to PG with associated vision loss. Decades of research have supported a genetic component both for PDS and conversion to PG. We review the body of evidence supporting a genetic basis in humans and animal models and reevaluate classical mechanisms of PDS/PG considering this new evidence.
The Impact of Perceived Stigma, Quality of Life, and Spiritual Beliefs on Suicidal Ideations among HIV-Positive Patients
Authors: Zarei Nooshin , Joulaei Hassan
Published: March 2018

Background.Suicidal ideation is considered a major health problem associated with HIV/AIDS. Suicide rates among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) are more than three times higher in the general population and that is a significant difference. This study aimed at investigating the related factors of suicidal ideations among HIV-positive patients in Southwest Iran.Study Design.A cross-sectional study.Methods.351 adult volunteer HIV-infected patients that referred to the Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) center in the south of Iran were evaluated based on convenience sampling. Data was collected utilizing a structured questionnaire from March to August 2015.Results.Over the six months prior to the study, 15.4% of the entire sample had been diagnosed with suicidal ideation. There was a significant correlation between the quality of life, spiritual beliefs, perceived stigma, and age with suicidal ideation. Suicidal ideation is significantly different in terms of gender and marital status. Perceived stigma and spiritual beliefs showed the highest effect on suicidal ideations, respectively.Conclusions.Having religious beliefs due to accelerating psychological adaptation can motivate HIV patients to survive and have also been considered effective in preventing women from suicide. Perceived stigma and quality of life are other factors that should be taken into consideration as key elements in suicide preventive programs.
Novel Low‐Permittivity (Mg1−xCux)2SiO4 Microwave Dielectric Ceramics
Authors: Hu Chengxi , Liu Yuan , Wang Wujun , Yang Bo
Published: March 2018

The effects of B2O3–LiF addition on the phase composition, microstructures, and microwave dielectric properties of (Mg0.95Cu0.05)2SiO4 ceramics fabricated by a wet chemical method were studied in detail. The B2O3–LiF was selected as liquid‐phase sintering aids to reduce the densification sintering temperature of (Mg0.95Cu0.05)2SiO4 ceramics. The B2O3 6%–Li2O 6%‐modified (Mg0.95Cu0.05)2SiO4 ceramics sintered at 1200°C possess good performance of εr ∼ 4.37, Q × f ∼ 36,700 GHz and τf ∼ −42 ppm/°C.
Estimation on Reliability Models of Bearing Failure Data
Authors: Xintao Xia , Zhen Chang , Lijun Zhang , Xiaowei Yang
Published: March 2018

The failure data of bearing products is random and discrete and shows evident uncertainty. Is it accurate and reliable to use Weibull distribution to represent the failure model of product? The Weibull distribution, log-normal distribution, and an improved maximum entropy probability distribution were compared and analyzed to find an optimum and precise reliability analysis model. By utilizing computer simulation technology and k-s hypothesis testing, the feasibility of three models was verified, and the reliability of different models obtained via practical bearing failure data was compared and analyzed. The research indicates that the reliability model of two-parameter Weibull distribution does not apply to all situations, and sometimes, two-parameter log-normal distribution model is more precise and feasible; compared to three-parameter log-normal distribution model, the three-parameter Weibull distribution manifests better accuracy but still does not apply to all cases, while the novel proposed model of improved maximum entropy probability distribution fits not only all kinds of known distributions but also poor information issues with unknown probability distribution, prior information, or trends, so it is an ideal reliability analysis model with least error at present.
Fatal Outcome of Imatinib in a Patient with Idiopathic Hypereosinophilic Syndrome
Authors: Abugroun Ashraf , Chaudhary Ahmed , Rodriguez Gabriel
Published: March 2018

Cytokine storm is a poorly explained clinical entity caused by an undesired and aggrandized immune system response leading to unregulated activation of the proinflammatory cascade, often contributing to multisystem organ failure and even death. Its potentially diverse etiologies and sepsis-like presentation have made it even more challenging to diagnose, and so far, no well-established treatment protocol has been proposed. Its association with certain medications, especially with monoclonal antibodies, has well been reported in literature. To the best of our knowledge, so far, no previous case of cytokine storm associated with imatinib has been reported. We herein present a case report of a 77-year-old male with a past medical history of hypereosinophilic syndrome who developed acute fatal cytokine storm following treatment with imatinib. This study highlights a life-threatening complication of the medication that may be underrecognized.
Cost-Effectiveness of Olaratumab in Combination with Doxorubicin for Patients with Soft Tissue Sarcoma in the United States
Authors: Zuluaga-Sanchez Santiago , Hess Lisa M. , Wolowacz Sorrel E. , D’yachkova Yulia , Hawe Emma , Vickers Adrian D. , Kaye James A. , Bertwistle David
Published: March 2018

Background. Standard first-line treatments for advanced soft tissue sarcoma (STS) have changed little for 40 years, and outcomes have been poor. Recently, the United States (US) Food and Drug Administration conditionally approved olaratumab in combination with doxorubicin (Olara + Dox) based on a randomized phase II trial that reported a significant 11.8-month improvement in median survival versus single-agent doxorubicin (Dox). The present study investigated the cost-effectiveness of Olara + Dox compared with Dox and five other standard-of-care regimens from the US payer perspective. Methods. An economic model was constructed to estimate costs and outcomes over patients’ lifetimes from start of therapy. Progression-free and overall survival were based on survival analysis of patient-level data and a meta-analysis. Adverse-event rates were based on trials. Costs were from published sources. Results. Olara + Dox resulted in an estimated additional 1.27 life-years (LYs) compared with Dox, with an increase in total expected lifetime costs of $133,653. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was estimated at $105,408 per LY gained; in a fully incremental analysis, all other regimens were dominated (higher costs and lower LYs or a higher ICER). Conclusion. Olara + Dox is cost-effective for STS treatment compared with Dox and other standard-of-care regimens at willingness-to-pay thresholds of $150,000 per LY and above.
Analysis of Software Implemented Low Entropy Masking Schemes
Authors: Li Dan , Chen Jiazhe , Wang An , Wang Xiaoyun
Published: March 2018

Low Entropy Masking Schemes (LEMS) are countermeasure techniques to mitigate the high performance overhead of masked hardware and software implementations of symmetric block ciphers by reducing the entropy of the mask sets. The security of LEMS depends on the choice of the mask sets. Previous research mainly focused on searching balanced mask sets for hardware implementations. In this paper, we find that those balanced mask sets may have vulnerabilities in terms of absolute difference when applied in software implemented LEMS. The experiments verify that such vulnerabilities certainly make the software LEMS implementations insecure. To fix the vulnerabilities, we present a selection criterion to choose the mask sets. When some feasible mask sets are already picked out by certain searching algorithms, our selection criterion could be a reference factor to help decide on a more secure one for software LEMS.
The Assessment of Carbon Dioxide Automated Angiography in Type II Endoleaks Detection: Comparison with Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound
Authors: Mascoli Chiara , Faggioli Gianluca , Gallitto Enrico , Vento Vincenzo , Indelicato Giuseppe , Pini Rodolfo , Vacirca Andrea , Stella Andrea , Gargiulo Mauro
Published: March 2018

Introduction. Iodinated contrast media completion angiography (ICM-A) may underestimate the presence of type II endoleak (ELII) after endovascular aortic repair (EVAR), particularly if they are at low flow. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has been proposed as the gold standard in ELII detection during EVAR follow-up. Intraprocedural carbon dioxide (CO2) angiography has been shown to be useful in this setting; however no comparative studies including these three techniques are currently available. Our aim was to investigate the accuracy of a new automated CO2angiographic (CO2-A) system in the detection of ELII, by comparing it with ICM-A and CEUS.Methods. A series of consecutive patients undergoing EVAR for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) were enrolled and submitted to ICM-A and CO2-A during the procedure. The iodinated contrast media were delivered through an automatic injector connected to a pigtail catheter in the suprarenal aorta. CO2was delivered through a recently available automatic injector connected to a 10 F sheath positioned in the external iliac artery. All patients were blindly evaluated by CEUS within postoperative day 1. The ICM-A and CO2-A ability to detect ELII was compared with that of CEUS through Cohen’s concordance Index(K).Results. Twenty-one patients were enrolled in the study. One (5%), seven (33%), and four (19%) ELII were detected by ICM-A, CO2-A, and CEUS, respectively. The only ELII detected by ICM-A was also detected by CO2-A and CEUS. Three cases of ELII detected by CO2-A were not detected by CEUS. All ELII detected by CEUS were visualized by CO2-A. CEUS and ICM-A showed a poor agreement (Cohen’sK: 0.35) while CEUS and CO2-A showed a substantial agreement (Cohen’sK: 0.65) for ELII detection.Conclusion. CO2-A is safe and effective method for ELII detection in EVAR, with a significantly higher agreement with CEUS if compared with ICM-A. This trial is registered with 155/2015/U/Oss.
Effects of Platycodin D on Reflux Esophagitis due to Modulation of Antioxidant Defense Systems
Authors: Cho Su-Yeon , Song Chang-Hyun , Lee Ji-Eun , Choi Seong Hun , Ku Sae-Kwang , Park Soo-Jin
Published: March 2018

Aims. The effects of platycodin D (PD) pretreatment were examined in reflux esophagitis (RE) induced rats. Methods. Sham, control, and omeprazole (OMP) group were pretreated with distilled water or OMP as a reference, respectively, and PD pretreated groups were given 3 different PD doses once a day for 7 days. One hour after last pretreatment, RE was induced by ligation of the forestomach and pylorus. At 8 h after operation, all animals were sacrificed. Results. PD showed significant dose‐dependent reduction of gastric secretion, myeloperoxidase activity, and RE lesion areas of esophagus and stomach mucosa. There was a reduction of lipid peroxidation in 2 doses of PD groups and elevation of antioxidant enzyme activity in all PD groups. Gastric hexose and sialic acid were significantly increased in PD groups, while collagen was reduced. Plasma histamine levels were significantly reduced in all PD groups, but not in the OMP group. Total invasive lesion sizes of esophagus and gastric fundus were significantly decreased in all PD groups. Thicknesses in esophagus of all PD groups were significantly decreased and thicknesses of funds were significantly increased except lowest PD dose. Conclusions. Therapeutic effects of PD on the esophageal and gastric lesions were shown in RE induced rats dose‐dependently. The PD pretreatment had significant antioxidant effects with regulation of histamine levels. This study provides useful information regarding the effectiveness of the drug for RE and further novel drug discovery using natural herbal products.
Quality of Cucumbers Commercially Fermented in Calcium Chloride Brine without Sodium Salts
Authors: McMurtrie Erin K. , Johanningsmeier Suzanne D.
Published: March 2018

Commercial cucumber fermentation produces large volumes of salty wastewater. This study evaluated the quality of fermented cucumbers produced commercially using an alternative calcium chloride (CaCl2) brining process. Fermentation conducted in calcium brines (0.1 M CaCl2, 6 mM potassium sorbate, equilibrated) with a starter culture was compared to standard industrial fermentation. Production variables included commercial processor(n=6), seasonal variation (June–September, 2 years), vessel size (10,000–40,000 L), cucumber size (2.7–5.1 cm diameter), and bulk storage time (55–280 days). Cucumber mesocarp firmness, color, bloater defects, pH, and organic acids were measured. Complete lactic acid fermentation was achieved, resulting in terminal fermentation pH values of 3.23 ± 0.09 and 3.30 ± 0.12 for CaCl2and NaCl processes, respectively. On average, CaCl2brined, fermented cucumbers were 1.8 N less firm, which remained significant in the finished product(P<0.0001). Color differences evidenced by higher hue and lower chroma values(P<0.0269)were consistent with increased photooxidation in CaCl2brined cucumbers. Commercial implementation of CaCl2brines for cucumber fermentation in open tanks variably resulted in texture and color defects that can impact product quality. Additional research is needed to understand the atypical softening observed at the commercial scale and identify process controls for quality improvements.
Quantification of Upper Limb Motor Recovery and EEG Power Changes after Robot-Assisted Bilateral Arm Training in Chronic Stroke Patients: A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Gandolfi Marialuisa , Formaggio Emanuela , Geroin Christian , Storti Silvia Francesca , Boscolo Galazzo Ilaria , Bortolami Marta , Saltuari Leopold , Picelli Alessandro , Waldner Andreas , Manganotti Paolo , Smania Nicola
Published: March 2018

Background. Bilateral arm training (BAT) has shown promise in expediting progress toward upper limb recovery in chronic stroke patients, but its neural correlates are poorly understood.Objective. To evaluate changes in upper limb function and EEG power after a robot-assisted BAT in chronic stroke patients.Methods. In a within-subject design, seven right-handed chronic stroke patients with upper limb paresis received 21 sessions (3 days/week) of the robot-assisted BAT. The outcomes were changes in score on the upper limb section of the Fugl-Meyer assessment (FM), Motricity Index (MI), and Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) evaluated at the baseline (T0), posttraining (T1), and 1-month follow-up (T2). Event-related desynchronization/synchronization were calculated in the upper alpha and the beta frequency ranges.Results. Significant improvement in all outcomes was measured over the course of the study. Changes in FM were significant at T2, and in MAS at T1and T2. After training, desynchronization on the ipsilesional sensorimotor areas increased during passive and active movement, as compared with T0.Conclusions. A repetitive robotic-assisted BAT program may improve upper limb motor function and reduce spasticity in the chronically impaired paretic arm. Effects on spasticity were associated with EEG changes over the ipsilesional sensorimotor network.
Self‐Organized Temporal Criticality: Bottom‐Up Resilience versus Top‐Down Vulnerability
Authors: Mahmoodi Korosh , West Bruce J. , Grigolini Paolo
Published: March 2018

We propose a social model of spontaneous self‐organization generating criticality and resilience, called Self‐Organized Temporal Criticality (SOTC). The criticality‐induced long‐range correlation favors the societal benefit and can be interpreted as the social system becoming cognizant of the fact that altruism generates societal benefit. We show that when the spontaneous bottom‐up emergence of altruism is replaced by a top‐down process, mimicking the leadership of an elite, the crucial events favoring the system’s resilience are turned into collapses, corresponding to the falls of the leading elites. We also show with numerical simulation that the top‐down SOTC lacks the resilience of the bottom‐up SOTC. We propose this theoretical model to contribute to the mathematical foundation of theoretical sociology illustrated in 1901 by Pareto to explain the rise and fall of elites.
Magnetic Domain Patterns in Bilayered Ribbons Studied by Magnetic Force Microscopy and Magneto-Optical Kerr Microscopy
Authors: Trojková Jana , Životský Ondřej , Hendrych Aleš , Markov Dmitry , Drobíková Klára
Published: March 2018

The magnetic domain patterns of amorphous bilayered FeSiB/FeNbSiB and FeNbCuSiB/CoSiB ribbons are observed and analysed using the magneto-optical Kerr microscopy (MOKM) and magnetic force microscopy (MFM). Both microscopic techniques are highly sensitive to the sample surface; possibility of Kerr microscopy to visualize the domains separately in both layers is achieved by focusing the laser spot on the ribbon cross section. Wide curved domains as well as fine fingerprint domains were detected at the surface of ribbons due to presence of local stresses coming from the preparation process. With respect to high lateral resolution of MFM and its out-of-plane magnetization sensitivity, the perpendicularly magnetized crossed stripe domain patterns can be selected as well. Coiling of the ribbons on the half-round-end sample holder is often used to induce and control the magnetic anisotropy of these alloys. Changes in the magnetic domain structure at the outer-coiled surface and its dependence on the sign of magnetostriction coefficient are discussed in detail. Finally, the MFM images in the presence of external in-plane magnetic field up to ±40 kA/m are shown.
Comparable Enhanced Prothrombogenesis in Simple Central Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Mohd Nor Noor Shafina , Saimin Hanis , Rahman Thuhairah , Abdul Razak Suraya , Mohd Nasir Nadzimah , Ismail Zaliha , Mohd Nawawi Hapizah
Published: March 2018

Objective. There is limited data comparing prothrombogenic or fibrinolysis biomarkers (tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1)) simultaneously in subjects with Metabolic Syndrome (MS), simple central obesity without MS (COB) and normal controls (NC). We investigated the concentrations of fibrinolysis biomarkers in subjects with MS, COB and NC.Methods. A cross-sectional study involving 503 drug naive subjects (163 males, aged 30–65 years old (mean age ± SD = 47.4 ± 8.3 years)) divided into MS, COB and NC groups. COB was defined as central obesity (waist circumference (WC) males ≥90 cm, females ≥80 cm) in the absence of MS according to the International Diabetes Federation 2006. Fasting blood levels of tPA and PAI-1were analyzed.Results. MS and COB had significantly higher concentration of all biomarkers compared to NC. The MS group had significantly higher concentration of tPA and PAI-1 compared to COB. WC and HDL-c had significant correlation with all biomarkers (tPAp<0.001, PAI-1p<0.001). Fasting plasma glucose and diastolic blood pressure were independent predictors after correcting for confounding factors.Conclusion. Central obesity with or without MS both demonstrated enhanced prothrombogenesis. This suggests that simple obesity possibly increases the risk of coronary artery disease in part, via increased susceptibility to thrombogenesis.
A Multitarget Visual Attention Based Algorithm on Crack Detection of Industrial Explosives
Authors: Xu Haibo , Shi Buhai , Zhang Qingming
Published: March 2018

This paper is a novel study on crack detection of industrial explosives. The proposed algorithm consists of the following steps: (1) image preprocessing was performed according to the defect features of industrial explosives cartridge, and we developed an improved visual attention based algorithm. This proposed algorithm features a parametric analysis that can be implemented on the image according to the conspicuous maps with the introduction of the concept of defect discrimination ξ; (2) as compared with other algorithms, our method can realize real-time multitarget detection function; (3) a new analysis method, the IPV-WEN algorithm, was proposed to analyze the cartridge defects based on performance indices. Through comparison and experimentation, it was revealed that this method can achieve a detection accuracy of 97.9%, with detection time of 34.51 ms, which satisfied the requirement in the industrial explosives production.
Effects of Habenular Stimulation Frequencies on Obstructive Sleep Apnea Induced by Stimulation of Insular Cortex
Authors: Kang Jing , Li Ming-Xian
Published: March 2018

Objective. To investigate the effects of high-frequency stimulation of the habenula (Hb) on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) induced by stimulation of the insular cortexMethod. After OSA was induced by stimulating the insular cortex (Ic) with concentric stimulating electrodes at 100 Hz in rats, the Hb was stimulated at different frequencies (50 Hz, 120 Hz, 130 Hz, and 280 Hz). The changes of apnea events and electromyography (EMG) of the genioglossus were compared before and after stimulation of the Hb.Results. With stimulation of the Ic at 100 Hz, apnea events were successfully induced with disappearance of EMG of the genioglossus. After stimulation of the Hb at 130 Hz, apnea events disappeared with significantly increased genioglossal EMG. However, such a change failed to be found at the stimulation frequencies of 50 Hz, 120 Hz, and 280 Hz.Conclusion. Stimulation of the Hb at the frequency of 130 Hz could effectively inhibit OSA events induced by stimulation of the Ic.
Clinical and Radiographic Success of Selective Caries Removal to Firm Dentin in Primary Teeth: 18-Month Follow-Up
Authors: Stafuzza Tássia Carina , Vitor Luciana Lourenço Ribeiro , Rios Daniela , Cruvinel Silva Thiago , Machado Maria Aparecida Andrade Moreira , Oliveira Thais Marchini
Published: March 2018

The selective caries removal is increasingly spreading in daily clinical practice because this minimally invasive technique treats deep carious lesion and decreases the risk of pulp exposure. This case report was aimed at describing the selective removal to firm dentin on the primary mandibular left first molar of a girl aged 7 years and 6 months. The Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA Angelus™) was used as liner, and the tooth was definitively restored with resin-modified glass ionomer cement (Vitremer™). The clinical and radiographic following-up was performed at 6, 12, and 18 months after treatment. The treatment showed satisfactory results after 18-month following-up, suggesting that this minimally invasive approach for carious lesion removal can replace the total removal, when properly indicated. Notwithstanding, further randomized clinical trials with longer following-up periods are still necessary.
Graft versus Host Disease: From Basic Pathogenic Principles to DNA Damage Response and Cellular Senescence
Authors: Kuba Adam , Raida Ludek
Published: March 2018

Graft versus host disease (GVHD), a severe immunogenic complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), represents the most frequent cause of transplant-related mortality (TRM). Despite a huge progress in HSCT techniques and posttransplant care, GVHD remains a significant obstacle in successful HSCT outcome. This review presents a complex summary of GVHD pathogenesis with focus on references considering basic biological processes such as DNA damage response and cellular senescence.
The Growing Genetic and Functional Diversity of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamases
Authors: ur Rahman Sadeeq , Ali Tariq , Ali Ijaz , Khan Nazir Ahmad , Han Bo , Gao Jian
Published: March 2018

Theβ-lactams—a large class of diverse compounds—due to their excellent safety profile and broad antimicrobial spectrum are considered to be the most widely used therapeutic class of antibacterials prescribed in human and veterinary clinical practices. This, unfortunately, has also given rise to a continuous increased resistance globally in health care settings as well as in the community due to their permanent selective force driving diversification of the resistance mechanism. Resistance againstβ-lactams is increasing rapidly as novelβ-lactamases, enzymes that degradeβ-lactams, are being discovered each day such as recent emergence of extended spectrumβ-lactamases (ESBL) that have the ability to inactivate most of the cephalosporins. The complexity and diversity of ESBL are increasing so rapidly that more than 170 variants have thus far been described for only a single genotype, theblaCTX-M-encoding ESBL. This review is to organize all the current updated literature describing genomic features, organization, and mechanism of resistance and mode of dissemination of all known ESBLs.
Reduced Haematopoietic Output in Automobile Mechanics and Sprayers with Chronic Exposure to Petrochemicals: A Case-Control Study in Cape Coast, Ghana
Authors: Adu Patrick , Pobee Richard , Awuah Aaron , Asiamah Paul B. , Amoani Festus , Gyabaa Sampson
Published: March 2018

Background. Automobile mechanics and sprayers are at a higher risk of exposure to hazardous chemicals such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals which may cause adverse health outcomes. This study aimed to use reticulocyte count as an indirect measure of the haematological output in automobile mechanics and sprayers in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana. Method. This cross-sectional study recruited 130 participants: 90 cases (57 automobile mechanics and 33 automobile sprayers) and 40 controls (nonautomobile workers). Venous blood samples were drawn from the participants and examined for full blood count and absolute reticulocyte count. Semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect demographic and occupational safety information from participants. Results. 75.6% of cases had never received occupational safety training. Whereas 35.1% of automobile mechanics routinely siphoned fuel, 36.4% of automobile sprayers never used nose masks in the discharge of their duties. Controls had significantly higher WBC counts compared to mechanics (p=0.0001; 5.04±1.7 versus 3.81±1.1), or sprayers (p=0.0004; 5.04±1.7 versus 3.74±0.9). Lymphocyte, monocyte, and platelet counts were also significantly higher in controls compared to cases. Whereas RBC counts were significantly higher in controls compared to automobile mechanics (4.85 versus 4.66; p=0.034), haemoglobin levels were significantly higher in automobile sprayers compared to controls (15.13 versus 14.1 g/dl; p=0.0126). Absolute reticulocyte count was significantly higher in controls compared to cases [p<0.0001; (56.88±32.14) × 109/L (controls) versus (25.31±15.75) × 109/L (sprayers) or (33.27±24.42) × 109/L (mechanics)]. Among the cases however, only RBC counts were significantly lower in automobile mechanics compared to automobile sprayers (p=0.0088; 4.66±0.4 versus 4.85±0.5). Conclusion. It was evident that both automobile mechanics and sprayers had significantly reduced haematopoietic output. Occupational safety training is not given priority and must be addressed.
Application of 25 MHz B-Scan Ultrasonography to Determine the Integrity of the Posterior Capsule in Posterior Polar Cataract
Authors: Guo Yawen , Lu Chengzhe , Wu Bin , Gao Jianmin , Li Jun , Yuan Xiaoyong , Tang Xin
Published: March 2018

Purpose. To report the application of 25 MHz B-scan ultrasonography (MHzB) to determine the integrity of the posterior capsule (PC) in posterior polar cataract (PPC). Methods. Patients with whom PPC was clinically diagnosed using slit lamp microscopy who underwent 25 MHzB before phacoemulsification were retrospectively reviewed. The status of the PC was determined by 25 MHzB before phacoemulsification and confirmed during cataract surgery. Results. In total, 21 eyes in 14 clinically diagnosed PPC patients were enrolled in this study. Out of 25 MHzB images, 19 PCs were found to be intact, while 2 showed dehiscence before cataract surgery. During phacoemulsification, 17 PCs were observed to be intact, while 4 PCs showed posterior capsule rupture (PCR). These 4 PCR cases included the above 2 eyes, in which preexisting dehiscence was detected by 25 MHzB. The other 2 PCR cases showed high reflectivity between high echoes in posterior opacities and the PC, indicating synechia between the PPC and PC. Conclusion. This is the first report to show that 25 MHzB can be used to clearly visualize the status of the PC in PPC. These results, in turn, could be used to select the appropriate treatment and to thereby avoid further complications during PPC surgery.