bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural properties of liquid aluminosilicate with varying Al2O3/SiO2 ratios: Insight from analysis and visualization of molecular dynamics data
Authors: Yen N. V. , Lan M. T. , Vinh L. T. , Hong N. V.
Published: March 2017

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and visualizations were explored to investigate the changes in structure of liquid aluminosilicates. The models were constructed for four compositions with varying Al2O3/SiO2 ratio. The local structure and network topology was analyzed through the pair of radial distribution functions, bond angle, bond length and coordination number distributions. The results showed that the structure of aluminosilicates mainly consists of the basic structural units TO[Formula: see text] (T is Al or Si; y = 3, 4, 5). Two adjacent units TO[Formula: see text] are linked to each other through common oxygen atoms and form continuous random network of basic structural units TO[Formula: see text]. The bond statistics (corner-, edge- and face- sharing) between two adjacent TO[Formula: see text] units are investigated in detail. The self-diffusion coefficients for three atomic types are affected by the degree of polymerization (DOP) of network characterized by the proportions of nonbridging oxygen (NBO) and Q[Formula: see text] species in the system. It was found that Q4 and Q3 tetrahedral species (tetrahedron with four and three bridging oxygens, respectively) decreases, while Q0 (with four nonbridging oxygen) increase with increasing Al2O3/SiO2 molar ratio, suggesting that a less polymerized network was formed. The structural and dynamical heterogeneities, micro-phase separation and liquid–liquid phase transition are also discussed in this work.
Random attractors for 3D Benjamin–Bona–Mahony equations derived by a Laplace-multiplier noise
Authors: Li Yangrong , Wang Renhai
Published: March 2017

This paper contributes the dynamics for stochastic Benjamin–Bona–Mahony (BBM) equations on an unbounded 3D-channel with a multiplicative noise. An interesting feature is that the noise has a Laplace-operator multiplier, which seems not to appear in any literature for the study of stochastic PDE. After translating the stochastic BBM equation into a random equation and deducing a random dynamical system, we obtain both existence and semi-continuity of random attractors for this random system in the Sobolev space. The convergence of the system can be verified without the lower bound assumption of the nonlinear derivative. The tail-estimate is achieved by using a square of the usual cutoff function and by a careful analysis of the solution’s biquadrate. A spectrum method is also applied to prove the collective limit-set compactness.
Evaluation of Knowledge Management in an Organisation
Authors: Armaghan Negar , Renaud Jean
Published: March 2017

Implementation of Knowledge Management (KM) brings significant changes at various levels of an organisation. Knowledge sharing is one of the aspects that plays a significant role in the success of KM. This paper uses empirical research. It will analyse the applicability of KM as a new change in an organisation, while taking into account the aspects influencing knowledge sharing. The research identifies the aspects related to knowledge sharing which will be assessed. This case study has been realised by using a questionnaire at an Iranian research organisation. The five factors of trust, commitment, job satisfaction, learning and organisational communication have been identified and studied as aspects affecting knowledge sharing. The results show that during the implementation of KM there would be a lot of resistance from people. While people seem to welcome this change and find it effective in organisational growth, the assessment shows that there is no adequate preparation in terms of knowledge sharing and KM.
Multifarious Beneficial Effect of Nonessential Amino Acid, Glycine: A Review
Authors: Razak Meerza Abdul , Begum Pathan Shajahan , Viswanath Buddolla , Rajagopal Senthilkumar
Published: March 2017

Glycine is most important and simple, nonessential amino acid in humans, animals, and many mammals. Generally, glycine is synthesized from choline, serine, hydroxyproline, and threonine through interorgan metabolism in which kidneys and liver are the primarily involved. Generally in common feeding conditions, glycine is not sufficiently synthesized in humans, animals, and birds. Glycine acts as precursor for several key metabolites of low molecular weight such as creatine, glutathione, haem, purines, and porphyrins. Glycine is very effective in improving the health and supports the growth and well‐being of humans and animals. There are overwhelming reports supporting the role of supplementary glycine in prevention of many diseases and disorders including cancer. Dietary supplementation of proper dose of glycine is effectual in treating metabolic disorders in patients with cardiovascular diseases, several inflammatory diseases, obesity, cancers, and diabetes. Glycine also has the property to enhance the quality of sleep and neurological functions. In this review we will focus on the metabolism of glycine in humans and animals and the recent findings and advances about the beneficial effects and protection of glycine in different disease states.
Gastric Duplication: A Rare Cause of Recurrent Vomiting
Authors: Koduri Brahmananda , McHale Katie , Yost Christina , Goodman Michael H. , Hoelzer Dennis
Published: March 2017

Vomiting is a physical finding that can occur at any age but presents the greatest challenge when it is recurrent in a child. The etiology is varied (Sieunarine and Manmohansingh, 1989; Suzuki, 1982), and recurrent vomiting can be a symptom of life threatening medical or surgical emergencies. Early recognition is mandatory for preventing delay in management and potential complications. Gastric duplication is rare and mostly diagnosed in infancy with only a few cases documented in the medical literature presenting in childhood. We present a three-year-old Vietnamese female with recurrent vomiting. Obstruction and sepsis were ruled out as a cause of the recurrent vomiting by history and appropriate tests. Persistent vomiting and paucity of air on the plain abdominal films provided a clue to the diagnosis. A CT scan of the abdomen with contrast revealed a uniformly thin walled fluid attenuation mass in the epigastric region which did not opacify with contrast. An abdominal ultrasound confirmed gastric duplication cyst and the patient was taken to the operating room for excision of the cyst.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Peer Victimization (Bullying) among Grades 7 and 8 Middle School Students in Kuwait
Authors: Abdulsalam Ahmad J. , Al Daihani Abdullah E. , Francis Konstantinos
Published: March 2017

Background. Peer victimization (bullying) is a universal phenomenon with detrimental effects. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and factors of bullying among grades 7 and 8 middle school students in Kuwait.Methods. The study is a cross-sectional study that includes a sample of 989 7th and 8th grade middle school students randomly selected from schools. The Revised Olweus Bully/Victim Questionnaire was used to measure different forms of bullying. After adjusting for confounding, logistic regression identified the significant associated factors related to bullying.Results. Prevalence of bullying was 30.2 with 95% CI 27.4 to 33.2% (3.5% bullies, 18.9% victims, 7.8% bully victims). Children with physical disabilities and one or both non-Kuwaiti parents or children with divorced/widowed parents were more prone to be victims. Most victims and bullies were found to be current smokers. Bullies were mostly in the fail/fair final school grade category, whereas victims performed better. The logistic regression showed that male gender (adjusted odds ration = 1.671,p=0.004), grade 8 student (adjusted odds ratio = 1.650,p=0.004), and student with physical disabilities (adjusted odds ratio = 1.675,p=0.003), were independently associated with bullying behavior.Conclusions. There is a need for a school-wide professional intervention program and improvement in the students’ adjustment to school environment to control bullying behavior.
Genotypic Diversity ofMycobacterium tuberculosisClinical Isolates in the Multiethnic Area of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in China
Authors: Liu Jie , Li Junlian , Liu Jiao , Zhao Xiuqin , Lian Lulu , Liu Haican , Lu Bing , Yu Qin , Zhang Jingrui , Qi Yingcheng , Wan Kanglin
Published: March 2017

Objectives.We studied the genetic diversity of clinical isolates from patients with tuberculosis in the multiethnic area of Xinjiang autonomous region in China. A total of 311 clinicalM. tuberculosisisolates were collected in 2006 and 2011 and genotyped by two genotyping methods. All isolates were grouped into 68 distinct spoligotypes using the spoligotyping method. The Beijing family was dominant, followed by T1 and CAS. MIRU-VNTR results showed that a total of 195 different VNTR types were identified. Ten of the 15 loci were highly or moderately discriminant according to their HGDI scores, and 13 loci had good discriminatory power in non-Beijing family strains, whereas only two loci had good discriminatory power in Beijing family strains. Chi-square tests demonstrated that there were no correlations between four characteristics (sex, age, type of case, and treatment history) and the Beijing family. In summary, Beijing family strains were predominant in Xinjiang, and theVNTR-15Chinalocus-set was suitable for genotyping all Xinjiang strains, but not for the Beijing family strains. Thus, these data suggested that different genotype distributions may exist in different regions; MLVA locus-sets should be adjusted accordingly, with newly added loci to increase resolution if necessary.
Batch Image Encryption Using Generated Deep Features Based on Stacked Autoencoder Network
Authors: Hu Fei , Wang Jingyuan , Xu Xiaofei , Pu Changjiu , Peng Tao
Published: March 2017

Chaos‐based algorithms have been widely adopted to encrypt images. But previous chaos‐based encryption schemes are not secure enough for batch image encryption, for images are usually encrypted using a single sequence. Once an encrypted image is cracked, all the others will be vulnerable. In this paper, we proposed a batch image encryption scheme into which a stacked autoencoder (SAE) network was introduced to generate two chaotic matrices; then one set is used to produce a total shuffling matrix to shuffle the pixel positions on each plain image, and another produces a series of independent sequences of which each is used to confuse the relationship between the permutated image and the encrypted image. The scheme is efficient because of the advantages of parallel computing of SAE, which leads to a significant reduction in the run‐time complexity; in addition, the hybrid application of shuffling and confusing enhances the encryption effect. To evaluate the efficiency of our scheme, we compared it with the prevalent “logistic map,” and outperformance was achieved in running time estimation. The experimental results and analysis show that our scheme has good encryption effect and is able to resist brute‐force attack, statistical attack, and differential attack.
Equilibrium, Kinetic, and Thermodynamic Studies on the Adsorption of Cadmium from Aqueous Solution by Modified Biomass Ash
Authors: Xu Lei , Zheng Xuebo , Cui Hongbiao , Zhu Zhenqiu , Liang Jiani , Zhou Jing
Published: March 2017

Natural biomass ash of agricultural residuals was collected from a power plant and modified with hexagonal mesoporous silica and functionalized with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane. The physicochemical and morphological properties of the biomass ash were analyzed by ICP-OES, SEM, TEM-EDS, FTIR, and BET analysis. The adsorption behavior of the modified product for Cd2+ in aqueous solution was studied as a function of pH, initial metal concentration, equilibrium time, and temperature. Results showed that the specific surface area of the modified product was 9 times that of the natural biomass ash. The modified biomass ash exhibited high affinity for Cd2+ and its adsorption capacity increased sharply with increasing pH from 4.0 to 6.0. The maximum adsorption capacity was 23.95 mg/g in a pH 5 solution with an initial metal concentration of 50 mg/L and a contact time of 90 min. The adsorption of Cd2+ onto the modified biomass ash was well fitted to the Langmuir model and it followed pseudo-second-order kinetics. Thermodynamic analysis results showed that the adsorption of Cd2+ was spontaneous and endothermic in nature. The results suggest that the modified biomass ash is promising for use as an inexpensive and effective adsorbent for Cd2+ removal from aqueous solution.
Cellular Homeostasis and Antioxidant Response in Epithelial HT29 Cells on Titania Nanotube Arrays Surface
Authors: SMN Mydin Rabiatul Basria , Sreekantan Srimala , Hazan Roshasnorlyza , Farid Wajidi Mustafa Fadzil , Mat Ishak
Published: March 2017

Cell growth and proliferative activities on titania nanotube arrays (TNA) have raised alerts on genotoxicity risk. Present toxicogenomic approach focused on epithelial HT29 cells with TNA surface. Fledgling cell‐TNA interaction has triggered G0/G1 cell cycle arrests and initiates DNA damage surveillance checkpoint, which possibly indicated the cellular stress stimuli. A profound gene regulation was observed to be involved in cellular growth and survival signals such as p53 and AKT expressions. Interestingly, the activation of redox regulator pathways (antioxidant defense) was observed through the cascade interactions of GADD45, MYC, CHECK1, and ATR genes. These mechanisms furnish to protect DNA during cellular division from an oxidative challenge, set in motion with XRRC5 and RAD50 genes for DNA damage and repair activities. The cell fate decision on TNA‐nanoenvironment has been reported to possibly regulate proliferative activities via expression of p27 and BCL2 tumor suppressor proteins, cogent with SKP2 and BCL2 oncogenic proteins suppression. Findings suggested that epithelial HT29 cells on the surface of TNA may have a positive regulation via cell‐homeostasis mechanisms: a careful circadian orchestration between cell proliferation, survival, and death. This nanomolecular knowledge could be beneficial for advanced medical applications such as in nanomedicine and nanotherapeutics.
Podocyte Injury and Albuminuria in Experimental Hyperuricemic Model Rats
Authors: Asakawa Shinichiro , Shibata Shigeru , Morimoto Chikayuki , Shiraishi Takeshi , Nakamura Takashi , Tamura Yoshifuru , Kumagai Takanori , Hosoyamada Makoto , Uchida Shunya
Published: March 2017

Although hyperuricemia is shown to accelerate chronic kidney disease, the mechanisms remain unclear. Accumulating studies also indicate that uric acid has both pro‐ and antioxidant properties. We postulated that hyperuricemia impairs the function of glomerular podocytes, resulting in albuminuria. Hyperuricemic model was induced by oral administration of 2% oxonic acid, a uricase inhibitor. Oxonic acid caused a twofold increase in serum uric acid levels at 8 weeks when compared to control animals. Hyperuricemia in this model was associated with the increase in blood pressure and the wall‐thickening of afferent arterioles as well as arcuate arteries. Notably, hyperuricemic rats showed significant albuminuria, and the podocyte injury marker, desmin, was upregulated in the glomeruli. Conversely, podocin, the key component of podocyte slit diaphragm, was downregulated. Structural analysis using transmission electron microscopy confirmed podocyte injury in this model. We found that urinary 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine levels were significantly increased and correlated with albuminuria and podocytopathy. Interestingly, although the superoxide dismutase mimetic, tempol, ameliorated the vascular changes and the hypertension, it failed to reduce albuminuria, suggesting that vascular remodeling and podocyte injury in this model are mediated through different mechanisms. In conclusion, vasculopathy and podocytopathy may distinctly contribute to the kidney injury in a hyperuricemic state.
Diversity ofLeptospiraspp. in Rats and Environment from Urban Areas of Sarawak, Malaysia
Authors: Pui Chai Fung , Bilung Lesley Maurice , Apun Kasing , Su’ut Lela
Published: March 2017

Various prevalence studies onLeptospirain animals and humans, as well as environmental samples, had been conducted worldwide, including Malaysia. However, limited studies have been documented on the presence of pathogenic, intermediate, and saprophyticLeptospirain selected animals and environments. This study was therefore conducted to detectLeptospiraspp. in rats, soil, and water from urban areas of Sarawak using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. A total of 107 rats, 292 soil samples, and 324 water samples were collected from April 2014 to February 2015. PathogenicLeptospirawas present in 5.6% (6/107) of rats, 11.6% (34/292) of soil samples, and 1.9% (6/324) of water samples. IntermediateLeptospirawas present in 2.7% (8/292) of soil samples and 1.9% (6/324) of water samples. SaprophyticLeptospirawas present in 10.3% (11/107) of rats, 1.4% (4/292) of soil samples, and 0.3% (1/324) of water samples. From this study, 76Leptospiraspp. were isolated. Based on DNA sequencing, the dominantLeptospiraspp. circulating in urban areas of Sarawak are pathogenicLeptospira noguchii, intermediateLeptospira wolffiiserovar Khorat, and saprophyticLeptospira meyeri, respectively. Overall, this study provided important surveillance data on the prevalence ofLeptospiraspp. from rats and the environment, with dominant local serovars in urban areas of Sarawak.
Proper Use of Capillary Number in Chemical Flooding
Authors: Guo Hu , Dou Ma , Hanqing Wang , Wang Fuyong , Yuanyuan Gu , Yu Zhaoyan , Yansheng Wang , Li Yiqiang
Published: March 2017

Capillary number theory is very important for chemical flooding enhanced oil recovery. The difference between microscopic capillary number and the microscopic one is easy to confuse. After decades of development, great progress has been made in capillary number theory and it has important but sometimes incorrect application in EOR. The capillary number theory was based on capillary tube bundles and Darcy’s law hypothesis, and this should always be kept in mind when used in chemical flooding EOR. The flow in low permeability porous media often shows obvious non-Darcy effects, which is beyond Darcy’s law. Experiments data from ASP flooding and SP flooding showed that remaining oil saturation was not always decreasing as capillary number kept on increasing. Relative permeability was proved function of capillary number; its rate dependence was affected by capillary end effects. The mobility control should be given priority rather than lowering IFT. The displacement efficiency was not increased as displacement velocity increased as expected in heavy oil chemical flooding. Largest capillary number does not always make highest recovery in chemical flooding in heterogeneous reservoir. Misuse of CDC in EOR included the ignorance of mobility ratio, Darcy linear flow hypothesis, difference between microscopic capillary number and the microscopic one, and heterogeneity caused flow regime alteration. Displacement of continuous oil or remobilization of discontinuous oil was quite different.
Shifting from Village-Based Networks to Locally Generated Networks: Undocumented Mexican Agricultural Workers Who Use/Used Hard Drugs
Authors: Bletzer Keith V.
Published: March 2017

Hardships that face transmigrants working in agriculture include the potential for drug use. Reliant on village-based networks that facilitate border crossing and developing a plan for a destination within this country, transmigrants who try new drugs/alcohol and/or continue on accustomed drugs/alcohol are facilitated in these endeavors through locally generated networks as alternative forms of access and support. Seven cases of undocumented men from Mexico are reviewed to show how use of illicit drugs is minimally affected by economic success and time in the United States, or village-based networks that first facilitated entry into this country. Prior conditions, especially childhood difficulties and search for socioeconomic autonomy, precipitate new and/or continuing drug use within the United States on this side of the border, where both forms of drug use are facilitated by locally generated networks.
Randomized Clinical Trial of a Self-Adhering Flowable Composite for Class I Restorations: 2-Year Results
Authors: Sabbagh J. , Dagher S. , El Osta N. , Souhaid P.
Published: March 2017

Objectives.To compare the clinical performances of a self-adhering resin composite and a conventional flowable composite with a self-etch bonding system on permanent molars. The influence of using rubber dam versus cotton roll isolation was also investigated.Materials and Methods.Patients aged between 6 and 12 years and presenting at least two permanent molars in need of small class I restorations were selected. Thirty-four pairs of restorations were randomly placed by the same operator. Fifteen patients were treated under rubber dam and nineteen using cotton rolls isolation and saliva ejector. They were evaluated according to the modified USPHS criteria at baseline, 6 months, and 1 and 2 years by two independent evaluators.Results.All patients attended the two-year recall. For all measured variables, there was no significant difference between rubber dam and cotton after 2 years of restoration with Premise Flowable or Vertise Flow (pvalue > 0.05). The percentage of restorations scored alpha decreased significantly over time with Premise Flowable and Vertise Flow for marginal adaptation and surface texture as well as marginal discoloration while it did not vary significantly for color matching. After 2 years, Vertise Flow showed a similar behaviour to the Premise Flowable used with a self-adhesive resin system.
Familial Retinoblastoma: Raised Awareness Improves Early Diagnosis and Outcome
Authors: Al-Nawaiseh Ibrahim , Ghanem Aseel Q. , Yousef Yacoub A.
Published: March 2017

Purpose. To study the impact of awareness of retinoblastoma in the affected families on the management and outcome of familial retinoblastoma patients. Methods and Materials. This is a retrospective, clinical case series of 44 patients with familial retinoblastoma. Collected data included patient’s demographics, laterality, family history, age at diagnosis, presenting signs, treatment modalities, tumor stage, eye salvage rate, metastasis, and mortality. Results. Out of 200 retinoblastoma patients in our registry, 44 (22%) patients were familial, 18 were probands, and 26 were second, third, or fourth affected family members. There were 76 affected eyes: 31 eyes of probands and 45 eyes of the other affected family members. Among probands, all patients (100%) had at least one eye enucleated: 58% (18 eyes) of the affected eyes were enucleated and 32% (10 eyes) of the affected eyes were radiated. On the other hand, among the nonprobands, only 20% had one eye enucleated, and only 4 eyes (9%) received radiation. The eye salvage rate was significantly higher in the nonprobands than in the probands in this series (p=0.00206). Patients diagnosed by screening (38%) had excellent visual outcome, and both eyes were salvaged. Conclusion. Awareness of families of the possibility of retinoblastoma and adequate screening led to a significantly higher rate of eye salvage in patients with familial retinoblastoma.
XEN Glaucoma Implant with Mitomycin C 1-Year Follow-Up: Result and Complications
Authors: Galal Ahmed , Bilgic Alper , Eltanamly Rasha , Osman Amr
Published: March 2017

Purpose. To evaluate gel microstent (XEN, Aquesys, Inc) for treatment of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). Methods. In this prospective interventional study, 13 eyes with POAG underwent XEN implantation with subconjunctival mitomycin-C. Of those eyes, 3 were pseudophakic and 10 underwent simultaneous phacoemulsification and XEN. Patients had uncontrolled IOP, had intolerance to therapy, or had maximal therapy but undergoing cataract extraction. Follow-up visits included IOP, number of medications, vision, and complications and lasted for 1 year. Complete success was defined as IOP reduction ≥20% from preoperative baseline at 1 year without any glaucoma medications while partial success as IOP reduction of ≥20% at 1 year with medications. Results. IOP dropped from 16 ± 4 mmHg pre-op to 9 ± 5, 11 ± 6, 12 ± 5, 12 ± 4, and 12 ± 3 mmHg at 1 week, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months (p=0.004, 0.026, 0.034, 0.01, and 0.01, Wilcoxon Signed Ranks) consecutively. BCVA (LogMAR) was 0.33 ± 0.34 and improved to 0.13 ± 0.11 at 1 year. Mean number of medications dropped from 1.9 ± 1 preoperatively to 0.3 ± 0.49 (p=0.003) at 1 year. 42% of eyes achieved complete success and 66% qualified success. Complications included choroidal detachment in 2 eyes, and implant extrusion in 1 eye, and 2 eyes underwent trabeculectomy. Conclusion. XEN implant is an effective surgical treatment for POAG, with significant reduction in IOP and glaucoma medications at 1 year follow-up.
Conventional Coronary Angiography Induced Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy Complicated with Cardiac Tamponade
Authors: Kang Min Gyu , Kim Kye-Hwan , Koh Jin-Sin , Jeong Young-Hoon , Hwang Jin-Yong , Park Jeong Rang
Published: March 2017

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) is a transient left ventricular dysfunction that typically occurs after emotional or physical stress. TCM has a benign prognosis and serious complications are uncommon. However, though very rarely reported, cardiac tamponade has occurred on some occasions. We hereby report the case of a 70-year-old woman who underwent coronary angiography with an ergonovine provocation test to evaluate recurrent chest pain and was readmitted 7 days later presenting with TCM, followed by left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and cardiac tamponade.
Switch to Aflibercept in Diabetic Macular Edema Patients Unresponsive to Previous Anti-VEGF Therapy
Authors: Mira Filipe , Paulo Manuel , Henriques Filipe , Figueira João
Published: March 2017

Purpose. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy of aflibercept in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) unresponsive to prior anti-VEGF therapy. Methods. Retrospective review of DME unresponsive to previous anti-VEGF switched to aflibercept with 3 months of follow-up. Changes in best correct visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), and frequency of injections were analyzed. The percentage of subjects who had ≥20/40 (logMAR equivalent 0.3) and ≤20/200 (logMAR equivalent 1) was evaluated. Results. A total of 32 eyes from 26 patients were included. Mean age was 65 ± 10 years old. The mean number of previous anti-VEGF injections was 5.34 ± 2.38, and the mean number of aflibercept injections at the end of the study was 2.00 ± 0.00. The CRT at baseline was 501.47 ± 150.51 μm and 367.97 ± 124.61 μm at 3 months of follow-up (P<0.001). The logMAR BCVA at baseline was 0.71 ± 0.36 and 0.65 ± 0.33 at the end of the follow-up (P=0.037). At baseline, 12.5% of patients had ≥20/40 compared with 25% at the end of follow-up. At baseline, 28.13% of patients had 20/200 or inferior vision compared with 15.63% at the end of the follow-up. Conclusions. DME patients unresponsive to previous multiple ranibizumab injections demonstrate a significant anatomical and functional improvement with the switch to aflibercept.
Tree Species Diversity and Composition of Miombo Woodlands in South-Central Angola: A Chronosequence of Forest Recovery after Shifting Cultivation
Authors: Gonçalves Francisco M. P. , Revermann Rasmus , Gomes Amândio L. , Aidar Marcos P. M. , Finckh Manfred , Juergens Norbert
Published: March 2017

The study was carried out in the Cusseque area of the Municipality of Chitembo in south-central Angola. Our objectives were to assess the floristic diversity, the species composition, and stand structure of Miombo woodlands during regeneration after shifting cultivation. A total of 40 plots of 1000 m2were surveyed and analyzed, corresponding to mature forests/woodlands and three fallow types of different age. The analyses were based on plot inventories of all trees with DBH ≥ 5 cm. A total of 51 woody species, 38 genera, and 19 families were recorded. The dominant family was Fabaceae, with subfamily Caesalpinioideae being very abundant. Shannon Diversity and Evenness were highest in mature forests and young fallows, while the mature forest stands showed the highest species richness. A Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) showed many species shared between the intermediate fallow types, but only few species were shared with young fallows. Mature forests formed a clearly distinct group. This study shows potential pathways of forest recovery in terms of faster regeneration after agricultural abandonment and, thus, the results presented here can be used in future conservation and management plans in order to reduce the pressure on mature forests.
Heave Motion Measurement by Adaptive Filter Based on Longuet‐Higgins Wave Model
Authors: Lu Jiazhen , Luo Qiuwei , Yang Yanqiang
Published: March 2017

A method is proposed to obtain heave motion information based on the Longuet‐Higgins wave model. The Longuet‐Higgins wave model which is closer to the sea wave is introduced. Based on it, random process of the noise is analyzed and the highpass filter is designed to reduce errors. Then it is the key point in this article that an adaptive algorithm is put forward because of the complexity of the waves. The algorithm adjusts the cutoff frequency to reduce the amplitude attenuation of the filter by analyzing the wave. For the same reason the comprehensive parameter of the phase compensation can be also obtained by the algorithm. Simulation measurement results show that under the rough sea situation the maximum value of absolute error is 0.4942 m according to the normal method, the method is 0.1170 m, and the average error ratio of the rough sea test reduces to 3.89% from 12.54%, which demonstrates that the adaptive filter is more effective in measuring heave movement. A variety of simulation cases show that the adaptive filter can also improve the precision of the heave motion under different sea situations.
Analytical Formulation for Electromagnetic Leakage Field to Transmission Line Coupling through Covered Apertures of Multiple Enclosures
Authors: Hao Jianhong , Gong Yanfei , Jiang Luhang , Fan Jieqing
Published: March 2017

An efficient analytical model has been developed for predicting the electromagnetic leakage field coupling with a lossless two-conductor transmission line (TL) through covered apertures of multiple enclosures. The analytical results have been successfully compared with those from the full-wave simulation software CST over a broad frequency range. The analytical model can be employed to analyze the effect of different factors including the position and the direction of the electric dipole, the conductivity of the conductive sheet, the quantity of the aperture, and the direction of the TL on the induced currents. Besides, it can also deal with apertures in multiple sides of the enclosures.
Effect of Arm Positioning on Entrapment of Infraclavicular Nerve Block Catheter
Authors: Kamenetsky Eric , Reddy Rahul , Kendall Mark C. , Nader Antoun , Weeks Jessica J.
Published: March 2017

Continuous brachial plexus nerve block catheters are commonly inserted for postoperative analgesia after upper extremity surgery. Modifications of the insertion technique have been described to improve the safety of placing an infraclavicular brachial plexus catheter. Rarely, these catheters may become damaged or entrapped, complicating their removal. We describe a case of infraclavicular brachial plexus catheter entrapment related to differences in arm positioning during catheter placement and removal. Written authorization to obtain, use, and disclose information and images was obtained from the patient.
Epidural Dexamethasone for Postoperative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Unilateral Inguinal Herniorrhaphy: A Comparative Study
Authors: Razavizadeh M. R. , Fazel MR. , Heydarian N. , Atoof F.
Published: March 2017

Background. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of adding dexamethasone to epidural bupivacaine on postoperative analgesia in unilateral inguinal herniorrhaphy.Methods. Forty-four patients were enrolled in this double-blind, clinical trial study. Patients were randomly allocated into dexamethasone or control group. In the dexamethasone group, patients received 18 ml of bupivacaine 0.5% and 2 ml (8 mg) of dexamethasone; in the control group, patients received 18 ml of bupivacaine 0.5% and 2 ml of normal saline. The onset of sensory block and its duration and incidence of nausea and vomiting were recorded.Results. The onset of epidural anesthesia was significantly more rapid in the dexamethasone group than in the control group (P<0.001). Duration of analgesia was markedly prolonged in the dexamethasone group than in the control group (P<0.001). Five patients (22.7%) in the control group had nausea in the first hour after the procedure (P=0.048). None of the patients in the dexamethasone group had nausea. None of our patients had vomiting in the two groups.Conclusions. This study showed that adding dexamethasone to bupivacaine significantly prolongs the duration of postoperative analgesia. This trial is registered with Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) numberIRCT2012062910137N1.
The Effect of Artificial Mowing on the Competition of Phragmites australis and Spartina alterniflora in the Yangtze Estuary
Authors: Yuan Yue , Zhang Chao , Li Dezhi
Published: March 2017

Spartina alterniflora Loisel. is one of the most invasive species in the world. However, little is known about the role of artificial mowing in its invasiveness and competiveness. In this work, we studied the effect of mowing on its interspecific interactions with native species Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin ex Steud of the Yangtze Estuary, China. We calculated their relative neighbor effect (RNE) index, effect of relative crowding (Dr) index, and interaction strength (I) index. The results showed that the RNE of Phragmites australis and Spartina alterniflora was 0.354 and 0.619, respectively, and they have competitive interactions. The mowing treatments can significantly influence the RNE of Phragmites australis and Spartina alterniflora on each other. Concretely, the RNE of Spartina alterniflora in the removal treatments was significantly higher than the value in the controls. But the RNE of Phragmites australis in the removal treatments was significantly lower than the value in the controls. Meanwhile, Dr of the two species on the targets was higher in the removal treatments than that in the controls, and the opposite was for I. We concluded that artificial mowing could promote the invasion of Spartina alterniflora by increasing its competitive performance compared with native species.
Seat Belt Compression Appendicitis following Motor Vehicle Collision
Authors: Khilji Muhammad Faisal , Zia Ullah Qazi
Published: March 2017

Appendicitis and trauma both present in emergency department commonly but their presentation together in the same patient is unusual. We present a case of a middle-aged man brought by emergency medical services (EMS) to the emergency department with complaints of abdominal pain after he was involved in motor vehicle collision. He was perfectly fine before the accident. His primary survey was normal. Secondary survey revealed tenderness in right iliac fossa with seat belt mark overlying it. Computerized tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis was performed which showed 8 mm thickening of appendix with minimal adjacent fat stranding. There is also subcutaneous fat stranding of anterior lower abdominal wall possibly due to bruising. Impression of posttraumatic seat belt compression appendicitis was made. Laparoscopic appendectomy was done and patient recovered uneventfully. Histopathology showed inflamed appendix, proving it to be a case of seat belt compression appendicitis.
Bradycardia during Transradial Cardiac Catheterization due to Catheter Manipulation: Resolved by Catheter Removal
Authors: Gedela Maheedhar , Kumar Vishesh , Shaikh Kashif Abbas , Stys Adam , Stys Tomasz
Published: March 2017

Purpose. To report the resolution of bradycardia encountered during transradial cardiac catheterization through the catheter pullback technique in two cases. Case Report. A 62-year-old male and an 81-year-old male underwent coronary angiogram to evaluate for coronary artery disease and as a result of positive stress test, respectively. Upon engagement of the FL 3.5 catheter into the ascending aorta through the transradial approach, the first case developed bradycardia with a heart rate of 39 beats per minute. The second case developed profound bradycardia with a heart rate of 25 beats per minute upon insertion of the 5 Fr FL 3.5 catheter near the right brachiocephalic trunk through the right radial access. Conclusion. Bradycardia can be subsided by removal of the catheter during catheter manipulation in patients undergoing transradial coronary angiogram if there is a suspicion of excessive stretching of aortic arch receptors and/or carotid sinus receptors.
Optimized Multiresidue Analysis of Organic Contaminants of Priority Concern in a Daily Consumed Fish (Grass Carp)
Authors: He Wei , Chen Yanru , Yang Chen , Liu Wenxiu , Kong Xiangzhen , Qin Ning , He Qishuang , Xu Fuliu
Published: March 2017

The organic contaminants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are of priority concern because of their persistence, toxicity, and long-distance transportation in global environment. Their residues in a daily consumed fish (grass carp) pose potential threat to human health and aquatic ecosystems. The present study optimized an analytical protocol of microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), lip-removal by gel permeation chromatography (GPC), cleanup by solid phase cartridge (SC) or adsorption chromatography column (CC), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Besides traditional statistical parameters, some indicators were calculated to judge the performances of extraction by various methods. The optimization experiment showed that n-hexane/acetone was the best MEA extraction solvent; an optimal fraction time of 10–39 min could simultaneously elute all the target chemicals in a single GPC run. Both CC and SC showed good recoveries. However, CC performed better than SC (p<0.05) for OCPs, and SC performed better than CC for PBDEs (p<0.05). We also emphasized the limitations and advantages of SC and CC and finally proposed SC as the promising cleanup method because of its low-cost materials, time-saving steps, being free of manual filling, and operation by automated SPE system.
“Culture Is So Interspersed”: Child-Minders’ and Health Workers’ Perceptions of Childhood Obesity in South Africa
Authors: Figueroa Roger , Saltzman Jaclyn , Jarick Metcalfe Jessica , Wiley Angela
Published: March 2017

Introduction.Forty-one million children globally are overweight or obese, with most rapid rate increases among low- and middle-income nations. Child-minders and health workers play a crucial role in obesity prevention efforts, but their perceptions of childhood obesity in low- and middle-income countries are poorly understood. This study aims to (1) explore child-minders and health workers’ perceptions of the causes, consequences, potential strategies, and barriers for childhood obesity prevention and intervention in Cape Town, South Africa and (2) to provisionally test the fit of a socioecological framework to explain these perceptions.Methods.Twenty-one interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed through analytic induction.Results.Participants identified multilevel factors and contexts, as well as potential consequences and priorities of interest in addressing childhood obesity. An adapted childhood obesity perceptions model was generated, which introduces an overarching cultural dimension embedded across levels of the socioecological framework.Conclusions.Culture plays a pivotal role in explaining obesogenic outcomes, and the results of this study demonstrate the need for further research investigating how obesity perceptions are shaped by cultural frames (e.g., social, political, and historical). Understanding the causes, consequences, and potential interventions to address obesity through a cultural lens is critical for promoting health in low- and middle-income nations.
Added Value of Serum Hormone Measurements in Risk Prediction Models for Breast Cancer for Women Not Using Exogenous Hormones: Results from the EPIC Cohort
Authors: Hüsing Anika , Fortner Renée T. , Kühn Tilman , Overvad Kim , Tjønneland Anne , Olsen Anja , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine , Severi Gianluca , Fournier Agnes , Boeing Heiner , Trichopoulou Antonia , Benetou Vassiliki , Orfanos Philippos , Masala Giovanna , Pala Valeria , Tumino Rosario , Fasanelli Francesca , Panico Salvatore , Bueno de Mesquita H. Bas , Peeters Petra H. , van Gills Carla H. , Quirós J. Ramón , Agudo Antonio , Sánchez Maria-Jose , Chirlaque Maria-Dolores , Barricarte Aurelio , Amiano Pilar , Khaw Kay-Tee , Travis Ruth C. , Dossus Laure , Li Kuanrong , Ferrari Pietro , Merritt Melissa A. , Tzoulaki Ioanna , Riboli Elio , Kaaks Rudolf
Published: March 2017

Purpose: Circulating hormone concentrations are associated with breast cancer risk, with well-established associations for postmenopausal women. Biomarkers may represent minimally invasive measures to improve risk prediction models.

Experimental Design: We evaluated improvements in discrimination gained by adding serum biomarker concentrations to risk estimates derived from risk prediction models developed by Gail and colleagues and Pfeiffer and colleagues using a nested case–control study within the EPIC cohort, including 1,217 breast cancer cases and 1,976 matched controls. Participants were pre- or postmenopausal at blood collection. Circulating sex steroids, prolactin, insulin-like growth factor (IGF) I, IGF-binding protein 3, and sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG) were evaluated using backward elimination separately in women pre- and postmenopausal at blood collection. Improvement in discrimination was evaluated as the change in concordance statistic (C-statistic) from a modified Gail or Pfeiffer risk score alone versus models, including the biomarkers and risk score. Internal validation with bootstrapping (1,000-fold) was used to adjust for overfitting.

Results: Among women postmenopausal at blood collection, estradiol, testosterone, and SHBG were selected into the prediction models. For breast cancer overall, model discrimination after including biomarkers was 5.3 percentage points higher than the modified Gail model alone, and 3.4 percentage points higher than the Pfeiffer model alone, after accounting for overfitting. Discrimination was more markedly improved for estrogen receptor–positive disease (percentage point change in C-statistic: 7.2, Gail; 4.8, Pfeiffer). We observed no improvement in discrimination among women premenopausal at blood collection.

Conclusions: Integration of hormone measurements in clinical risk prediction models may represent a strategy to improve breast cancer risk stratification. Clin Cancer Res; 23(15); 4181–9. ©2017 AACR.
Proliferation Markers Are Associated with MET Expression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Predict Tivantinib Sensitivity In Vitro
Authors: Rebouissou Sandra , La Bella Tiziana , Rekik Samia , Imbeaud Sandrine , Calatayud Anna-Line , Rohr-Udilova Nataliya , Martin Yoann , Couchy Gabrielle , Bioulac-Sage Paulette , Grasl-Kraupp Bettina , de Koning Leanne , Ganne-Carrié Nathalie , Nault Jean-Charles , Ziol Marianne , Zucman-Rossi Jessica
Published: March 2017

Purpose: Tivantinib was initially reported as a selective MET inhibitor and is under phase III evaluation in "MET-high" hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, it has been also proposed as an antimitotic agent. We aimed to evaluate the antitumor effect of tivantinib in HCC cells by combining pharmacologic and molecular profiling.

Experimental Design: Sensitivity to tivantinib, JNJ-38877605, PHA-665752, vinblastine, and paclitaxel was tested in a panel of 35 liver cancer cell lines analyzed with exome sequencing, mRNA expression of 188 genes, and protein expression. Drug effect was investigated by Western blot analysis and mitotic index quantification. Expression of candidate biomarkers predicting drug response was analyzed in 310 HCCs.

Results: Tivantinib sensitivity profiles in the 35 cell lines were similar to those obtained with antimitotic drugs. It induced blockage of cell mitosis, and high cell proliferation was associated with sensitivity to tivantinib, vinblastine, and paclitaxel. In contrast, tivantinib did not suppress MET signaling, and selective MET inhibitors demonstrated an antiproliferative effect only in MHCC97H, the unique cell line displaying MET gene amplification. HCC tumors with high expression of cell proliferation genes defined a group of patients with poor survival. Interestingly, highly proliferative tumors also demonstrated high MET expression, likely explaining better therapeutic response of MET-high HCC patients to tivantinib.

Conclusions: Tivantinib acts as an antimitotic compound, and cell proliferation markers are the best predictors of its antitumor efficacy in cell lines. Ki67 expression should be tested in clinical trials to predict tivantinib response. Clin Cancer Res; 23(15); 4364–75. ©2017 AACR.
Abstract A18: Gut microbiota changes in response to treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA)
Authors: Pearson Talima , Caporaso J Gregory , Yellowhair Monica , Martinez Jessica A. , Wertheim Betsy , Roe Denise , Thompson-Canino Patricia , Lance Peter
Published: March 2017

Compelling evidence suggests that gut flora influences colorectal cancer risk through direct effects on colonic bile acid composition. Bile acids are widely implicated in the etiology of colorectal cancer with the strongest evidence involving a detrimental role for the secondary BA, deoxycholic acid (DCA) and a protective effect of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). In a study of patients with prior colorectal adenomas who were randomized to UDCA (n=188 males, 64 females), a bile acid based intervention aimed at modulating bile acid composition, or placebo (n=162 males, 89 females), we determined effects of the intervention on the gut microbiome through 16S rRNA sequencing and bile acid composition at baseline using mass spectrometry.

We observe a consistent shift in microbial composition for males (t=5.83, p=3.6e-8) and females (t=3.14, p=0.003) treated with UDCA. No effect was observed in the placebo group for either males (t=-0.08, p=0.93) or females (t=-0.09, p=0.92). There were significant correlations between the gut microbiome and BA composition (r=0.31, p<0.001).

This suggests that UDCA treatment had an effect on the gut microbial communities relative to the placebo group. Interestingly, the magnitude of the change in the microbiome over time is similar in the two groups, but UDCA treatment seems to drive specific microbiome changes. These results are consistent with our previously reported observation that UDCA appears to have a greater effect in men for the prevention of colorectal adenomatous polyps, while increasing risk for women.

Citation Format: Talima Pearson, J Gregory Caporaso, Monica Yellowhair, Jessica A. Martinez, Betsy Wertheim, Denise Roe, Patricia Thompson-Canino, Peter Lance. Gut microbiota changes in response to treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Colorectal Cancer: From Initiation to Outcomes; 2016 Sep 17-20; Tampa, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(3 Suppl):Abstract nr A18.