bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fungal wood decomposer activity induces niche separation between two dominant tree species seedlings regenerating on coarse woody material
Authors: Fukasawa Y. , Komagata Y. , Ushijima S.
Published: September 2016

Decomposition subsystems have an essential role in forest dynamics but few studies demonstrate the effect of microbial decay traits on seedling regeneration. In the present study, we focused on seedling regeneration on coarse woody material (CWM), which is an important regeneration site for forest tree species, and the effects of wood decay type according to fungal decay preference for wood structural components on seedling colonization. Effects of log properties including wood decay type and other environmental variables on seedling density were evaluated by ordination methods and generalized linear models. In total, 22 woody species were recorded as seedlings on Pinus densiflora logs. By ordination analysis, white rot in heartwood and brown rot in sapwood, as well as canopy openness and log diameter, showed significant association with seedling communities. The factors selected for a generalized linear model for explaining seedling densities of the two dominant seedling species Cryptomeria japonica and P. densiflora included brown rot in sapwood and white rot in heartwood, but the effects were different: a positive effect of brown rot on C. japonica and a negative effect of white rot on P. densiflora. These results suggested that wood decay type could induce niche separation between dominant tree species regenerating on CWM.
Enterococcus species diversity in fecal samples of wild marine species as determined by real-time PCR
Authors: Medeiros Aline Weber , Blaese Amorim Derek , Tavares Maurício , de Moura Tiane Martin , Franco Ana Claudia , d’Azevedo Pedro Alves , Frazzon Jeverson , Frazzon Ana Paula Guedes
Published: September 2016

Analyses using culture-independent molecular techniques have improved our understanding of microbial composition. The aim of this work was to identify and quantify enterococci in fecal samples of wild marine species using real-time quantitative PCR. Seven Enterococcus species were examined in fecal DNA of South American fur seals (Arctocephalus australis), Subantarctic fur seals (Arctocephalus tropicalis), green turtles (Chelonia mydas), Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus), snowy-crowned tern (Sterna trudeaui), white-backed stilt (Himantopus melanurus), white-chinned petrels (Procellaria aequinoctialis), red knot (Calidris canutus), and black-browed albatross (Thalassarche melanophris). All Enterococcus species evaluated were detected in all fecal samples of wild marine species, with a concentration ranging between 106 and 1012 copies/ng of total DNA. Differences in the enterococci distribution were observed. Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus mundtii were most abundant in marine mammals. Enterococcus faecalis was frequent in green turtle, Magellanic penguin, snowy-crowned tern, red knot, and black-browed albatross. Enterococcus hirae and Enterococcus gallinarum showed elevated occurrence in white-backed stilt, and Enterococcus faecium in white-chinned petrel. This study showed highest diversity of enterococci in feces of wild marine species than currently available data, and reinforced the use of culture-independent analysis to help us to enhance our understanding of enterococci in gastrointestinal tracts of wild marine species.
Maxwell’s equal area law for Lovelock thermodynamics
Authors: Xu Hao , Xu Zhen-Ming
Published: September 2016

We present the construction of Maxwell’s equal area law for the Guass–Bonnet AdS black holes in [Formula: see text] and third-order Lovelock AdS black holes in [Formula: see text]. The equal area law can be used to find the number and location of the points of intersection in the plots of Gibbs free energy, so that we can get the thermodynamically preferred solution which corresponds to the first-order phase transition. We obtain the radius of the small and large black holes in the phase transition which share the same Gibbs free energy. The case with two critical points is explored in much more details. The latent heat is also studied.
Predictions on the alpha decay chains of superheavy nuclei with Z = 121 within the range 290 ≤ A ≤ 339
Authors: Santhosh K. P. , Nithya C.
Published: September 2016

A systematic study on the alpha decay half-lives of various isotopes of superheavy element (SHE) [Formula: see text] within the range [Formula: see text] is presented for the first time using Coulomb and proximity potential model for deformed nuclei (CPPMDN). The calculated [Formula: see text] decay half-lives of the isotopes within our formalism match well with the values computed using Viola–Seaborg systematic, Universal curve of Poenaru et al., and the analytical formula of Royer. In our study by comparing the [Formula: see text] decay half-lives with the spontaneous fission half-lives, we have predicted [Formula: see text] chain from [Formula: see text]121, [Formula: see text] chain from [Formula: see text]121 and [Formula: see text] chain from [Formula: see text]121. Clearly our study shows that the isotopes of SHE [Formula: see text] within the mass range [Formula: see text] will survive fission and can be synthesized and detected in the laboratory via alpha decay. We hope that our predictions will provide a new guide to future experiments.
A Response-Adjustable Sandwich Beam with Harmonic Distribution Parameters under Stochastic Excitations
Authors: Ying Z. G. , Ni Y. Q.
Published: September 2016

This paper demonstrates that a sandwich beam with the continuous harmonic distribution of geometrical and physical parameters can be adjusted to yield the desired response. The facial layer thickness and core layer modulus of the sandwich beam are considered as the harmonic distribution. The frequency responses and response spectral densities of the finite harmonic sandwich beam with supported mass under stochastic support motion excitations are studied for improving the performance. The partial differential equations for the horizontal and vertical coupling motions of the harmonic sandwich beam are derived and converted into the ordinary differential equations for the multi-mode coupling vibration. The modal stiffness, mass and excitation coefficients are functions of the harmonic distribution parameters (HDPs). The vibration responses including resonances and anti-resonances can be adjusted by the harmonic parameter wave numbers and amplitudes. The frequency responses and response spectral densities of the harmonic sandwich beam are obtained. The single and two-mode vibrations are analyzed to demonstrate that the response resonance and anti-resonance can be adjusted via the HDPs of the beam. The substantially improved vibration response characteristics and the influence of the HDPs on the response spectral densities are illustrated with numerical results.
A New Approach for Incorporating Hoek–Brown Failure Criterion in Kinematic Approach — Case of a Rock Slope
Authors: Pan Qiujing , Dias Daniel , Sun Zhibin
Published: September 2016

This paper develops a novel approach to incorporate the generalized Hoek–Brown criterion in the kinematic approach. Two analytical expressions for the equivalent friction angle and the equivalent cohesion in the context of the Hoek–Brown criterion are derived as a function of the minimum principal stress. As an illustrative example, the stability of a rock slope is investigated. The spatial discretization technique is employed to generate a slope failure mechanism considering the spatial variation of the equivalent friction angle corresponding to the minimum principal stress. In order to simplify this problem, the minimum principal stress is taken as an additional parameter in the optimization process of the kinematical approach. For the numerical modeling, three kinds of stress distributions are considered in the optimization process. The proposed approach is validated by comparison with available numerical results with good agreement. It is also shown that with the uniform distribution of minimum principal stress, the proposed approach gives the same solutions as those by the classical tangential line technique, and with more complicated distributions, the proposed approach yields a better solution than the classical tangential line technique, especially for large values of geological strength index (GSI).
Impact of Knowledge Management Processes for Sustainability of Small Family Businesses: Evidences from the Brassware Sector of Moradabad (India)
Authors: Gupta Priya Dhamija , Bhattacharya Sonali
Published: September 2016

In this research paper, we have studied the role and process of knowledge management in small family businesses at different stages of its growth: startup, business consolidation and succession. We intend to study if in family run MSME clusters education of firm owner gives any edge in the sustainability of the business. There is lack of availability of literature on study of Indian MSME with family business perspective. Our study encompasses factors that stimulate innovation, technology acquisition and business growth and sustainability. Evidences have been drawn from brass manufacturing cluster of Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India. The research is based on cross-case analysis of six brassware manufacturing units of Moradabad. We attempted to build on existing literature reviews on knowledge management process in family firms and assess how these theories fit in case of small family run export oriented enterprises, which are highly competitive. It was found family relationship, attitude to learn, critical thinking and social capital are keys in determining sustainability of these firms. A theoretical model has been curved out of the study.
Fracture networks of normal faults in fine-grained sedimentary rocks: examples from Kilve Beach, SW England
Authors: Skar Tore , Berg Silje S. , Gabrielsen Roy H. , Braathen Alvar
Published: September 2016

Interbedded shale and limestone successions in the Kilve Beach area, Bristol Channel Basin, UK, provide insights on fracture networks around normal faults in fine-grained lithologies. Fracture sets with distinct orientations are characteristic of both shale and limestone beds. Shear fractures (mode II) predominate in the shaly units, and they have typically more gentle dips and a larger spread in orientations than extension veins and shear fractures in the limestones. Fracture intensities decrease away from the fault core, but maximum intensities, total number of fractures and widths of the damage zones appear to be independent of throw for normal faults with offsets of less than 20 m. Thus, there is no clear systematic relationship between fault throw and damage zone width in the shales studied by us. However, an asymmetry in the fracture distribution is evidenced by a wider hanging-wall damage zone and differences in fracture orientations in some cases. We interpret the asymmetry and spread in fracture orientations to be the result of propagating fault-tip process zones and the tempo-spatial impact of fault-slip events.
Differential Role of Adipose Tissues in Obesity and Related Metabolic and Vascular Complications
Authors: Gómez-Hernández Almudena , Beneit Nuria , Díaz-Castroverde Sabela , Escribano Óscar
Published: September 2016

This review focuses on the contribution of white, brown, and perivascular adipose tissues to the pathophysiology of obesity and its associated metabolic and vascular complications. Weight gain in obesity generates excess of fat, usually visceral fat, and activates the inflammatory response in the adipocytes and then in other tissues such as liver. Therefore, low systemic inflammation responsible for insulin resistance contributes to atherosclerotic process. Furthermore, an inverse relationship between body mass index and brown adipose tissue activity has been described. For these reasons, in recent years, in order to combat obesity and its related complications, as a complement to conventional treatments, a new insight is focusing on the role of the thermogenic function of brown and perivascular adipose tissues as a promising therapy in humans. These lines of knowledge are focused on the design of new drugs, or other approaches, in order to increase the mass and/or activity of brown adipose tissue or the browning process of beige cells from white adipose tissue. These new treatments may contribute not only to reduce obesity but also to prevent highly prevalent complications such as type 2 diabetes and other vascular alterations, such as hypertension or atherosclerosis.
Electroacupuncture Treatment Alleviates Central Poststroke Pain by Inhibiting Brain Neuronal Apoptosis and Aberrant Astrocyte Activation
Authors: Tian Gui-Hua , Tao Shan-Shan , Chen Man-Tang , Li Yu-Sang , Li You-Ping , Shang Hong-Cai , Tang Xiao-Yi , Chen Jian-Xin , Tang He-Bin
Published: September 2016

Electroacupuncture (EA) is reported to effectively relieve the central poststroke pain (CPSP). However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The present study investigated the detailed mechanisms of action of EA treatment at different frequencies for CPSP. A CPSP model was established with a single collagenase injection to the left ventral posterolateral nucleus of the thalamus. The EA-treated groups then received EA treatment at frequency of 2, 2/15, or 15 Hz for 30 min daily for five days. The pain-related behavioral responses, neuronal apoptosis, glial activation, and the expression of pain signal transmission-related factors (β-catenin, COX-2, and NK-1R) were assessed using behavioral tests, Nissl staining, TUNEL staining, and immunohistochemical staining, respectively. The low-frequency EA treatment significantly (1) reduced brain tissue damage and hematoma sizes and (2) inhibited neuronal apoptosis, thereby exerting abirritative effects. Meanwhile, the high-frequency EA treatment induced a greater inhibition of the aberrant astrocyte activation, accompanied by the downregulation of the expressions of COX-2,β-catenin, and subsequently NK-1R, thereby alleviating inflammation and producing strong analgesic effects. Together, these findings suggest that CPSP is closely related to pathological changes of the neocortex and hippocampus. EA treatments at different frequencies may exert abirritative effects by inhibiting brain neuronal apoptosis and aberrant astrocyte activation in the brain.
A Polymer Film Dye Laser with Spatially Modulated Emission Controlled by Transversely Distributed Pumping
Authors: Wardosanidze Zurab V. , Chanishvili Andro , Chilaya Guram
Published: September 2016

Spatial modulation of laser emission controlled by the structure of excitation light field was demonstrated. A dye doped polymer film as an active medium was sandwiched between two laser mirrors forming a laser cell. The pumping was performed by an interference pattern formed with two mutually coherent beams of the second harmonic of a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (532 nm) and located in the plane of the laser cell. The laser emission was observed normally on the plane of the cell. The cross section of the obtained laser emission was modulated in intensity with an interval between maximums depending on the period of the pumping interference pattern. Thus, the emitted light field qualitatively looks like diffraction from an elementary dynamic hologram, that is, a holographic diffraction grating.
Late Presentation of HIV Infection: Prevalence, Trends, and the Role of HIV Testing Strategies in Guangzhou, China, 2008–2013
Authors: Cheng Weibin , Tang Weiming , Han Zhigang , Tangthanasup Thitikarn May , Zhong Fei , Qin Faju , Xu Huifang
Published: September 2016

Background. The prevalence, trends, and the role of different HIV testing strategies in late presentation of HIV infection in China were unknown.Methods. Data of newly reported HIV cases in Guangzhou between 2008 and 2013 was analyzed to examine the prevalence, trends, and characteristics of late presentation of HIV infection by three types of HIV testing strategies.Results. Overall, 53.2% (1412/2653) and 27.3% (724/2653) met the criteria of late presentation and presentation with advanced HIV disease. The overall trend of late presentation of HIV infection within the study period was declining. Late presentation was 62.9% in 2008 and dropped to 43.3% in 2013 (P<0.001); presentation with advanced HIV disease was 40.3% in 2008 and dropped to 15.2% in 2013 (P<0.001). Of the three testing strategies, PITC presented higher odds of both late presentation [AOR (95% CI): PITC versus VCT: 1.37 (1.09, 1.73); PITC versus MHT: 3.09 (2.16, 4.42)] and presentation with advanced HIV disease [AOR (95% CI): PITC versus VCT: 1.65 (1.29, 2.11); PITC versus MHT: 13.14 (8.47, 20.39)].Conclusions. Although the late presentation of HIV infection was declining, it was still high in Guangzhou. The worse situation among PITC cases urges the policy adjustment in medical settings to increase early HIV diagnosis.
Approximate Solution of Volterra-Stieltjes Linear Integral Equations of the Second Kind with the Generalized Trapezoid Rule
Authors: Asanov Avyt , Hazar Elman , Eroz Mustafa , Matanova Kalyskan , Abdyldaeva Elmira
Published: September 2016

The numerical solution of linear Volterra-Stieltjes integral equations of the second kind by using the generalized trapezoid rule is established and investigated. Also, the conditions on estimation of the error are determined and proved. A selected example is solved employing the proposed method.
Does Sensory Function Decline Independently or Concomitantly with Age? Data from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging
Authors: Gadkaree Shekhar K. , Sun Daniel Q. , Li Carol , Lin Frank R. , Ferrucci Luigi , Simonsick Eleanor M. , Agrawal Yuri
Published: September 2016

Objectives. To investigate whether sensory function declines independently or in parallel with age within a single individual.Methods. Cross-sectional analysis of Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA) participants who underwent vision (visual acuity threshold), proprioception (ankle joint proprioceptive threshold), vestibular function (cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potential), hearing (pure-tone average audiometric threshold), and Health ABC physical performance battery testing.Results. A total of 276 participants (mean age 70 years, range 26–93) underwent all four sensory tests. The function of all four systems declined with age. After age adjustment, there were no significant associations between sensory systems. Among 70–79-year-olds, dual or triple sensory impairment was associated with poorer physical performance.Discussion. Our findings suggest that beyond the common mechanism of aging, other distinct (nonshared) etiologic mechanisms may contribute to decline in each sensory system. Multiple sensory impairments influence physical performance among individuals in middle old-age (age 70–79).
Protective Effects of Hydrogen against Low‐Dose Long‐Term Radiation‐Induced Damage to the Behavioral Performances, Hematopoietic System, Genital System, and Splenic Lymphocytes in Mice
Authors: Guo Jiaming , Zhao Deyun , Lei Xiao , Zhao Hainan , Yang Yanyong , Zhang Pei , Liu Pengfei , Xu Yang , Zhu Meizhou , Liu Hu , Chen Yuanyuan , Chuai Yunhai , Li Bailong , Gao Fu , Cai Jianming
Published: September 2016

Molecular hydrogen (H2) has been previously reported playing an important role in ameliorating damage caused by acute radiation. In this study, we investigated the effects of H2 on the alterations induced by low‐dose long‐term radiation (LDLTR). All the mice in hydrogen‐treated or radiation‐only groups received 0.1 Gy, 0.5 Gy, 1.0 Gy, and 2.0 Gy whole‐body gamma radiation, respectively. After the last time of radiation exposure, all the mice were employed for the determination of the body mass (BM) observation, forced swim test (FST), the open field test (OFT), the chromosome aberration (CA), the peripheral blood cells parameters analysis, the sperm abnormality (SA), the lymphocyte transformation test (LTT), and the histopathological studies. And significant differences between the treatment group and the radiation‐only groups were observed, showing that H2 could diminish the detriment induced by LDLTR and suggesting the protective efficacy of H2 in multiple systems in mice against LDLTR.
Accurate Diagnosis of Severe Hypospadias Using 2D and 3D Ultrasounds
Authors: Rodríguez Fernández Vanesa , López Ramón y Cajal Carlos , Marín Ortiz Elena , Sarmiento Carrera Nerea
Published: September 2016

The hypospadias is the most common urogenital anomaly of male neonates but the prenatal diagnosis of this is often missed before birth. We present the prenatal diagnosis of a severe penoscrotal hypospadias using 2D and 3D ultrasounds. 3D sonography allowed us the best evaluation of the genitals and their anatomical relations. This ample detailed study allowed us to show the findings to the parents and the pediatric surgeon and to configure the best information about the prognosis and surgical treatment.
Valproic Acid, a Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor, in Combination with Paclitaxel for Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer: Results of a Multicenter Randomized Controlled Phase II/III Trial
Authors: Catalano Maria Graziella , Pugliese Mariateresa , Gallo Marco , Brignardello Enrico , Milla Paola , Orlandi Fabio , Limone Paolo Piero , Arvat Emanuela , Boccuzzi Giuseppe , Piovesan Alessandro
Published: September 2016

Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) has a median survival less than 5 months and, to date, no effective therapy exists. Taxanes have recently been stated as the main drug treatment for ATC, and the histone deacetylase inhibitor valproic acid efficiently potentiates the effects of paclitaxelin vitro. Based on these data, this trial assessed the efficacy and safety of the combination of paclitaxel and valproic acid for the treatment of ATC. This was a randomized, controlled phase II/III trial, performed on 25 ATC patients across 5 centers in northwest Italy. The experimental arm received the combination of paclitaxel (80 mg/m2/weekly) and valproic acid (1,000 mg/day); the control arm received paclitaxel alone. Overall survival and disease progression, evaluated in terms of progression-free survival, were the primary outcomes. The secondary outcome was the pharmacokinetics of paclitaxel. The coadministration of valproic acid did not influence the pharmacokinetics of paclitaxel. Neither median survival nor median time to progression was statistically different in the two arms. Median survival of operated-on patients was significantly better than that of patients who were not operated on. The present trial demonstrates that the addition of valproic acid to paclitaxel has no effect on overall survival and disease progression of ATC patients. This trial is registered withEudraCT 2008-005221-11.
A Review of Management of Inflammation in the HIV Population
Authors: Slim Jihad , Saling Christopher F.
Published: September 2016

Advancements in antiretroviral therapy have drastically increased the life expectancy for those infected with HIV. Today, a new subgroup of older patients with long-term controlled HIV exists, and its populace is continuously mounting. Therefore, it is essential to understand the enduring effects of chronic suppressed HIV infection in order to further improve HIV management in these patients. This paper will examine the role of HIV in chronic inflammation and immune dysfunction, the dynamic interaction that exists between comorbidity and HIV, and the potential consequences of long-term antiretroviral therapy in an effort to provide the best management options for the virally suppressed HIV patient.
Construction of a Turn Off-On-Off Fluorescent System Based on Competitive Coordination of Cu2+between 6,7-Dihydroxycoumarin and Pyrophosphate Ion for Sensitive Assay of Pyrophosphatase Activity
Authors: Zhao Lingzhi , Zhao Liu , Miao Yanqing , Liu Chunye , Zhang Chenxiao
Published: September 2016

The detection of pyrophosphatase (PPase) activity is of great significance in diagnosing diseases and understanding the function of PPase-related biological events. This study constructed a turn off-on-off fluorescent system for PPase activity assay based on PPase-regulated competitive coordination of Cu2+between a water-soluble fluorescent probe 6,7-dihydroxycoumarin (DHC) and pyrophosphate (PPi). The probe DHC can coordinate with Cu2+and consequently display on-off type fluorescence response. Furthermore, the in situ formed nonfluorescent Cu2+-DHC complex can act as an effective off-on type fluorescent probe for sensing PPi due to the higher coordination reactivity between Cu2+and PPi than that between Cu2+and DHC. The subsequent addition of PPase to the mixture containing Cu2+, DHC, and PPi leads to the fluorescence requenching of the system again (an off state) because PPase catalyzes the hydrolysis of PPi into orthophosphate in the reaction system. Under the optimum conditions, the decrease of the fluorescence intensity of DHC-Cu2+-PPi system was linear with the increase of the PPase activity in the range from 0.1 to 0.3 U. The detection limit was down to 0.028 U PPase (S/N=3). Moreover, the as-established system was also applied to evaluate PPase inhibitor. This study offers a simple yet effective method for the detection of PPase activity.
A Generalized Inverse Binomial Summation Theorem and Some Hypergeometric Transformation Formulas
Authors: Ripon S. M.
Published: September 2016

A generalized binomial theorem is developed in terms of Bell polynomials and by applying this identity some sums involving inverse binomial coefficient are calculated. A technique is derived for calculating a class of hypergeometric transformation formulas and also some curious q series identities.
DTI Image Registration under Probabilistic Fiber Bundles Tractography Learning
Authors: Guo Zhe , Wang Yi , Lei Tao , Fan Yangyu , Zhang Xiuwei
Published: September 2016

Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) image registration is an essential step for diffusion tensor image analysis. Most of the fiber bundle based registration algorithms use deterministic fiber tracking technique to get the white matter fiber bundles, which will be affected by the noise and volume. In order to overcome the above problem, we proposed a Diffusion Tensor Imaging image registration method under probabilistic fiber bundles tractography learning. Probabilistic tractography technique can more reasonably trace to the structure of the nerve fibers. The residual error estimation step in active sample selection learning is improved by modifying the residual error model using finite sample set. The calculated deformation field is then registered on the DTI images. The results of our proposed registration method are compared with 6 state-of-the-art DTI image registration methods under visualization and 3 quantitative evaluation standards. The experimental results show that our proposed method has a good comprehensive performance.
Hierarchical Precoding in a Realistic Ultradense Heterogeneous Environment Exceeding the Degrees of Freedom
Authors: Shehata Mohamed , Kurras Martin , Hassan Khaled , Thiele Lars
Published: September 2016

Cell densification is a widely used approach to increase the spectral efficiency per area of cellular networks. Such Ultradense Networks (UDNs) consisting of small cells are often coordinated by macro base stations (BSs). With universal frequency reuse interference from the macro BS limits the system spectral efficiency. In this work we exploit the degrees of freedom at the macro BS to apply interference coordination. We propose a hierarchical precoding strategy in the spatial domain in order to project interference from the macro BS into the subspace of small cell users enabling linear cancellation. The macro BS interference towards small cell users is aligned within the joint null space of users served by the macro BS. Compared to classical interference alignment, our scheme does not require coordination between macrocells and small cells. We present three algorithms: in the first the interference is minimized by iterative alignment, in the second the uncoordinated interference from the small cells is considered, and in the third iterative Minimum Mean Square Error (MMSE) technique is used. We provide numerical evaluation, complexity analysis, and robustness analysis of these algorithms based on a realistic channel model showing the benefit of hierarchical precoding compared to the uncoordinated case.
Cardiovascular Endurance, Body Mass Index, Physical Activity, Screen Time, and Carotenoid Intake of Children: NHANES National Youth Fitness Survey
Authors: Vaccaro Joan A. , Huffman Fatma G.
Published: September 2016

Background. Approximately 17% of children aged 6–11 years were classified as obese in the United States. Obesity adversely affects physical functioning and leads to reduced quality of life. Heart function for overweight and obese children has not been reported.Methods. Data for this study were from NHANES National Youth Fitness Survey (NNYFS) conducted in conjunction with the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in 2012. This study used data from children aged 6–12 (N=732) that had the cardiorespiratory endurance measure, body mass index for age and sex, and dietary data (N=682). Cardiovascular endurance was estimated by heart rate reserve.Results. Compared to the highest percentile of heart rate reserve, those in the first percentile had 3.52 (2.36, 5.24) odds and those in the second percentile had 3.61 (1.84, 7.06) odds of being in the overweight/obese as compared to the under/normal weight category. Considering the highest percentile, boys had a heart rate reserve of 35%, whereas girls had a heart rate reserve of 13% (less than half that of boys).Conclusion. Having an overweight or obese classification for children in this study demonstrated a compromise in cardiovascular endurance. Parental awareness should be raised as to the detrimental consequence of overweight and heart health.
Positive Impact on Physical Activity and Health Behaviour Changes of a 15-Week Family Focused Intervention Program: “Juniors for Seniors”
Authors: Bronikowski Michał , Bronikowska Małgorzata , Pluta Beata , Maciaszek Janusz , Tomczak Maciej , Glapa Agata
Published: September 2016

The promotion of physical activity (PA) in children and their parents requires effective planning and sometimes even interventions. This study shows the effect of PA during a 15-week intervention program “Junior for Seniors” by applying a socioecological model to the interpretation of the data. This comprehensive approach emphasizes the fact that health promotion should focus not only on intrapersonal factors but also on the multilevel factors that might be determinants and modulators of increased PA. In 2015, 24 children (“juniors,” 14 girls and 10 boys, agedM=7.96±0.69) and 22 parents (“seniors,” 14 mothers agedM=38.86±2.96and 8 fathers agedM=37.38±2.97) were voluntarily enrolled in a study spread across three primary schools in the city of Poznań, Poland. The effectiveness of the intervention was determined according to postintervention behavioural changes in PA in comparison to preintervention levels, as reported by the parents and children. Overall, the study found increases in PA levels and reductions in sedentary time. Although the changes are modest, there are some unrecognized benefits of the intervention which may have occurred, such as improved sport and motor skills, more frequent family social behaviours (walks, meals, and visiting relatives), or simply improved quality of “do-together” leisure time PA.
The Rhizome Mixture of Anemarrhena asphodeloides and Coptis chinensis Attenuates Mesalazine‐Resistant Colitis in Mice
Authors: Lim Su-Min , Choi Hyun Sik , Jeong Jin-Ju , Han Seung-Won , Kim Dong-Hyun
Published: September 2016

We investigated the effect of DWac on the gut microbiota composition in mice with 2,3,6‐trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid‐ (TNBS‐) induced colitis. Treatment with DWac restored TNBS‐disturbed gut microbiota composition and attenuated TNBS‐induced colitis. Moreover, we examined the effect of DWac in mice with mesalazine‐resistant colitis (MRC). Intrarectal injection of TNBS in MRC mice caused severe colitis, as well as colon shortening, edema, and increased myeloperoxidase activity. Treatment with mesalazine (30 mg/kg) did not attenuate TNBS‐induced colitis in MRC mice, whereas treatment with DWac (30 mg/kg) significantly attenuated TNBS‐induced colitis. Moreover, treatment with the mixture of mesalazine (15 mg/kg) and DWac (15 mg/kg) additively attenuated colitis in MRC mice. Treatment with DWac and its mixture with mesalazine inhibited TNBS‐induced activation of NF‐κB and expression of M1 macrophage markers but increased TNBS‐suppressed expression of M2 macrophage markers. Furthermore, these inhibited TNBS‐induced T‐bet, RORγt, TNF‐α, and IL‐17 expression but increased TNBS‐suppressed Foxp3 and IL‐10 expression. However, Th2 cell differentiation and GATA3 and IL‐5 expression were not affected. These findings suggest that DWac can ameliorate MRC by increasing the polarization of M2 macrophage and correcting the disturbance of gut microbiota and Th1/Th17/Treg, as well as additively attenuating MRC along with mesalazine.
A Case of Bilateral Permanent Subluxation of the Lateral Meniscus
Authors: Suganuma Jun , Sugiki Tadashi , Inoue Yutaka
Published: September 2016

We report a case of bilateral, permanent subluxation of the lateral meniscus. To our knowledge, the present case is the first reported description of bilateral irreducible anterior dislocation of the posterior segment of the lateral meniscus. This disorder is characterized by a flipped meniscus sign of the lateral meniscus on sagittal magnetic resonance images of the knee joint, with no history of trauma or locking symptoms. A detailed examination of serial magnetic resonance images of the lateral meniscus can help differentiate this condition from malformation of the lateral meniscus, that is, a double-layered meniscus. We recommend two-stage treatment for this disorder. First, the knee joint is kept in straight position for 3 weeks after the lateral meniscus is reduced to the normal position. Second, if subluxation of the lateral meniscus recurs, meniscocapsular suture is then performed. Although subluxation of the lateral meniscus without locking symptoms is rare, it is important to be familiar with this condition to diagnose and treat it correctly.
Optimization of Life Cycle Extension of Asphalt Concrete Mixtures in regard to Material Properties, Structural Design, and Economic Implications
Authors: Mikolaj Jan , Remek Lubos , Kozel Matus
Published: September 2016

Design of ACM life cycle is defined with respect to traffic load acting on the pavement and road class for a period of about 20 years. In practice, reconstruction is usually pending until the end of the life cycle after which the reconstruction takes place and the original materials are replaced by new materials. Life cycle of the pavement construction in road structure is significantly longer than that of the ACM; it is therefore necessary to consider ACM from a long term viewpoint, that is, exceeding their life expectancy. This paper describes a methodology which consists of analytical calculations, experimental measurements, and optimization of the ACM life cycle with the use of a rehabilitation action to provide new physical properties of pavement surfacing in different periods of the original life cycle. The aim is to attain maximal economic effectiveness, by minimizing financial costs for rehabilitation and maintenance and economic costs of road user. Presented method allows deriving optimal life cycle from various rehabilitation alternatives for particular ACM with the fact that all the necessary parameters are derived from specific experimental measurements and calculations. The method is applicable to all types of ACM materials; however, for each material, it is necessary to carry out the necessary measurements and tests. The article describes the methodology and case study results for a particular type of ACM material.
An Analysis of Anthropometric Indicators and Modifiable Lifestyle Parameters Associated with Hypertensive Nephropathy
Authors: Aryee Christiana , Owiredu William K. B. A. , Osei-Yeboah James , Owusu-Dabo Ellis , Laing Edwin F. , Owusu Isaac K.
Published: September 2016

The surge in prevalence of chronic noncommunicable diseases like hypertension and chronic kidney disease has been linked with modifiable lifestyle practices and increased body fat. This study sought to compare the association between different modifiable lifestyle practices, adiposity indices, renal function parameters, and hypertension as well as the predictive implications for levels of these parameters in target cardiac organ damage among an urban Ghanaian hypertensive population. Using a hospital-based case-control study design, 241 Ghanaian indigenes from the Kumasi metropolis were recruited for this study. The case group was made up of 180 hypertensives and 61 normotensives served as controls. In addition to sociodemographic data, standard haemodynamic, anthropometric, renal function, and cardiac organ damage assessments were done. The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) ranged from 13.3% to 16.6% depending on the equation used in estimating the glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Percentage cluster distribution by chronic kidney disease was observed to be significantly tilted toward the upper quartiles (3rd and 4th) of the haemodynamic parameters measured. Chronic kidney disease was significantly higher among self-reported smokers and alcoholic hypertensives. In this urban population, adiposity was associated with hypertension and renal insufficiency. Chronic kidney disease was associated with hypertension and cardiac abnormalities.
Long-Term Outcome ofEn BlocExtensive Resection of the Penis and Prepuce Associated with a Permanent Perineal Urethrostomy in a Gelding Affected by Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Straticò Paola , Varasano Vincenzo , Celani Gianluca , Suriano Riccardo , Petrizzi Lucio
Published: September 2016

A 15-year-old gelding was referred for a florid, cauliflower-like ulcerated mass, enclosing penis and prepuce together with penile urethra showing a malodorous purulent and blood-stained discharge and larvae infestation.En blocextensive resection of the penis and prepuce, without penile retroversion or pexy to ventral abdomen associated with a permanent perineal urethrostomy, was performed. Histology of the mass revealed a squamous cell carcinoma of penis and prepuce. The surgical technique that was adopted is a modified version of that already described that allows a more proximal resection of the penile body and is a valid option for treating advanced SCC lesions involving the penis. Early postsurgical complications (mild strangury, haemorrhage from the urethrostomy site and its partial dehiscence, and infection of the abdominal wound) were managed with a medical treatment and resolved within 5 to 12 days. Three years after surgery the horse is in good body condition and does not show any sign of recurrence or disorders related to the surgery.
Awareness, Knowledge, and Acceptance of Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Sickle Cell Anaemia in Nigeria
Authors: Adediran Adewumi , Kagu Modu Baba , Wakama Tamunomieibi , Babadoko Aliyu Ahmadu , Damulak Dapus Obadiah , Ocheni Sunday , Asuquo Marcus Inyama
Published: September 2016

Background. Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is an inherited condition whose clinical manifestations arise from the tendency of haemoglobin to polymerize and deform red blood cells into characteristic sickle shape. Allogeneic bone marrow transplantation offers a cure. The aim of this study was to determine the level of awareness, knowledge, and acceptance of this beneficial procedure in Nigeria. Materials and Methods. This multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted in 7 tertiary hospitals in Nigeria in 2015. Approval was obtained from each institution’s research and ethics committee. A pretested structured questionnaire was administered to respondents aged 18 years and above and to the parents or guardians of those below 18 years of age. Results. There were 265 respondents comprising 120 males and 145 females. One hundred and seventy-one (64.5%) respondents were aware of BMT for the treatment of SCA. About 67.8% (116 of 171) of those who were aware believed SCA can be cured with BMT (p=0.001) and 49.7% (85 of 171) of the respondents accepted BMT (p=0.001). Conclusion. Awareness of BMT in Nigeria is low when compared with reports from developed countries. The knowledge is poor and acceptance is low. With adequate information, improved education, and psychological support, more Nigerians will embrace BMT.
Rapid Melt Growth of Single Crystal InGaAs on Si Substrates
Authors: Bai Xue , Chen Chien-Yu , Mukherjee Niloy , Griffin Peter B. , Plummer James D.
Published: September 2016

InGaAs integration on Si substrates is an important topic for next generation electronic devices. Rapid melt growth (RMG) has the potential to grow defect-free lattice mismatched materials on Si at low cost. Most previous publications have focused on growing binary III–V compounds by RMG, but none have discussed ternary compound materials. In this paper, we demonstrate the RMG of the single crystal ternary compound InGaAs on Si substrates. We discuss two main issues. The first is segregation along the stripe length. An analytical model is developed to describe the segregation of In/Ga in the grown stripe and the model is compared with experimental data. The second issue is the dissolution of the Si seed region during RMG, which leads to formation of Si islands inside the InGaAs stripe. The results of this study are applicable to any compound material in which Si is soluble at the elevated temperatures required for RMG.
Uncertainty Principles for the Dunkl-Wigner Transforms
Authors: Soltani Fethi
Published: September 2016

We prove a version of Heisenberg-type uncertainty principle for the Dunkl-Wigner transform of magnitude s>0; and we deduce a local uncertainty principle for this transform.
Research on Methods for Discovering and Selecting Cloud Infrastructure Services Based on Feature Modeling
Authors: Zhu Huamin , Wu Lifa , Huang Kangyu , Zhou Zhenji
Published: September 2016

Nowadays more and more cloud infrastructure service providers are providing large numbers of service instances which are a combination of diversified resources, such as computing, storage, and network. However, for cloud infrastructure services, the lack of a description standard and the inadequate research of systematic discovery and selection methods have exposed difficulties in discovering and choosing services for users. First, considering the highly configurable properties of a cloud infrastructure service, the feature model method is used to describe such a service. Second, based on the description of the cloud infrastructure service, a systematic discovery and selection method for cloud infrastructure services are proposed. The automatic analysis techniques of the feature model are introduced to verify the model’s validity and to perform the matching of the service and demand models. Finally, we determine the critical decision metrics and their corresponding measurement methods for cloud infrastructure services, where the subjective and objective weighting results are combined to determine the weights of the decision metrics. The best matching instances from various providers are then ranked by their comprehensive evaluations. Experimental results show that the proposed methods can effectively improve the accuracy and efficiency of cloud infrastructure service discovery and selection.
PRUB: A Privacy Protection Friend Recommendation System Based on User Behavior
Authors: Jiang Wei , Wang Ruijin , Xu Zhiyuan , Huang Yaodong , Chang Shuo , Qin Zhiguang
Published: September 2016

The fast developing social network is a double-edged sword. It remains a serious problem to provide users with excellent mobile social network services as well as protecting privacy data. Most popular social applications utilize behavior of users to build connection with people having similar behavior, thus improving user experience. However, many users do not want to share their certain behavioral information to the recommendation system. In this paper, we aim to design a secure friend recommendation system based on the user behavior, called PRUB. The system proposed aims at achieving fine-grained recommendation to friends who share some same characteristics without exposing the actual user behavior. We utilized the anonymous data from a Chinese ISP, which records the user browsing behavior, for 3 months to test our system. The experiment result shows that our system can achieve a remarkable recommendation goal and, at the same time, protect the privacy of the user behavior information.
Nuclear Factor (Erythroid‐Derived)‐Related Factor 2‐Associated Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cell Protection under Blue Light‐Induced Oxidative Stress
Authors: Takayama Kei , Kaneko Hiroki , Kataoka Keiko , Kimoto Reona , Hwang Shiang-Jyi , Ye Fuxiang , Nagasaka Yosuke , Tsunekawa Taichi , Matsuura Toshiyuki , Nonobe Norie , Ito Yasuki , Terasaki Hiroko
Published: September 2016

Purpose. It is a matter of increasing concern that exposure to light‐emitting diodes (LED), particularly blue light (BL), damages retinal cells. This study aimed to investigate the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) damage caused by BL and to elucidate the role of nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived)‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the pathogenesis of BL‐induced RPE damage. Methods. ARPE‐19, a human RPE cell line, and mouse primary RPE cells from wild‐type and Nrf2 knockout (Nrf2−/−) mice were cultured under blue LED exposure (intermediate wavelength, 450 nm). Cell death rate and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation were measured. TUNEL staining was performed to detect apoptosis. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction was performed on NRF2 mRNA, and western blotting was performed to detect Nrf2 proteins in the nucleus or cytoplasm of RPE cells. Results. BL exposure increased cell death rate and ROS generation in ARPE‐19 cells in a time‐dependent manner; cell death was caused by apoptosis. Moreover, BL exposure induced NRF2 mRNA upregulation and Nrf2 nuclear translocation in RPE. Cell death rate was significantly higher in RPE cells from Nrf2−/− mice than from wild‐type mice. Conclusions. The Nrf2 pathway plays an important role in protecting RPE cells against BL‐induced oxidative stress.
Inhibitory Effect ofLoranthus parasiticuson IgE-Mediated Allergic Responses in RBL-2H3 Cells
Authors: Yoo Jae-Myung , Yang Ju-Hye , Kim Young Soo , Cho Won-Kyung , Ma Jin Yeul
Published: September 2016

The mistletoeLoranthus parasiticushas been used as a compound for traditional medicine in Northeast Asia for a long time and is known to possess neuroprotective action. Nonetheless, the effect ofLoranthus parasiticuson allergic responses remains unknown. In the present study, we evaluated whether the water extract ofLoranthus parasiticus(LPE) could inhibit IgE-mediated allergic responses in RBL-2H3 cells. LPE inhibited the release ofβ-hexosaminidase (IC50, 184.5 μg/mL) and the formation of tumor necrosis factor-α(IC50, 84.27 μg/mL), interleukin-4 (IC50, 93.43 μg/mL), prostaglandin E2(IC50, 84.10 μg/mL), prostaglandin D2, and leukotriene C4(IC50, 43.27 μg/mL) in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, LPE inhibited phosphorylation of Syk, PLCγ1/2, PKCδ, ERK, JNK, p38, and Akt. In the late phase, LPE decreased 5-lipoxygenase phosphorylation and COX-2 expression but not cPLA2phosphorylation. Additionally, LPE included total phenolic compounds (10.72 mg/g dry weight) and total flavonoids (56.20 mg/g dry weight). These results suggest that the phenolic compounds or flavonoids contained in LPE may be associated with antiallergic activity. The phenolic compounds and flavonoids in LPE are antiallergic phytochemicals capable of inhibiting the activation of the FcεRI signaling cascade in mast cells. Such effects may provide further information for the development of a phytomedicine for allergic diseases.