bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UV Radiation Induced Cross-Linking of Whey Protein Isolate-Based Films
Authors: Schmid Markus , Prinz Tobias Konrad , Müller Kerstin , Haas Andreas
Published: June 2017

Casted whey protein films exposed to ultraviolet irradiation were analyzed for their cross-linking properties and mechanical and barrier performance. Expected mechanical and barrier improvements are discussed with regard to quantification of the cross-linking in the UV-treated whey protein films. Swelling tests were used to determine the degree of swelling, degree of cross-linking, and cross-linking density. When the UV radiation dosage was raised, a significant increase of the tensile strength as well as an increase in Young’s modulus was observed. No significant changes in water vapor and oxygen barrier properties between the UV-treated films and an untreated reference sample could be observed. The cross-linking density and the degree of cross-linking significantly increased due to UV radiation. Combined results indicate a disordered protein network in cast films showing locally free volume and therefore only minor mechanical and barrier improvements.
Design and Characterization of Endostatin-Loaded Nanoparticles for In Vitro Antiangiogenesis in Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Adeyemi Samson A. , Choonara Yahya E. , Kumar Pradeep , du Toit Lisa C. , Pillay Viness
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study is to effectively enhance antitumor activities of endostatin by preparing polymeric nanocarriers. NMR and FT-IR spectra confirmed the successful grafting of the CHT-g-PEI and CHT-g-PEI-PEG-NH2 conjugates. SEM micrographs confirmed the shape of endostatin-loaded nanoparticles to be spherical while both TEM and zeta size results showed nanoparticle’s average size to be 100.6 nm having a positively charged surface with zeta potential of 7.95 mV. The concentrations of CHT and TPP as well as the changing pH conditions account for the increased swelling pattern of endostatin-loaded nanoparticles and influenced endostatin release in vitro. PEI increased the overall amine protonation while PEG aggravated endostatin encapsulation and release. Nanoparticles swell and release endostatin at acidic tumor pH of 6.8 compared to physiological pH of 7.4. The native CHT-g-PEI-PEG-NH2 conjugate showed high cytocompatibility above 80% cell viability across tested formulations. Endostatin-loaded nanoparticles showed a significant reduction in cell viability across tested formulations, with 5.32% cell death at 125 μg/mL and 13.36% at 250 μg/mL following 24 hours’ incubation period. Interestingly, more than a fourfold (61.68%) increment in cytotoxicity was observed at nanoparticle concentration of 1000 μg/mL. It was concluded that CHT-g-PEI-PEG-NH2 is an effective cargo for endostatin delivery with antiangiogenic effect in squamous cell carcinoma.
Liver-Specific Overexpression of Gamma-Glutamyltransferase Ameliorates Insulin Sensitivity of Male C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Long Yang , Jia Dan , Wei Libin , Yang Yumei , Tian Haoming , Chen Tao
Published: June 2017

In the current study, we developed a liver-specific GGT-overexpressing mice model by rapid injection pLIVE-GGT vector through tail vein and investigated the effects of GGT elevation on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. The serum GGT activity was significantly increased after 7 days of pLIVE-GGT1 vector delivery and lasted for about 3 weeks. GGT overexpression reduced the levels of GSSG and GSH in the liver and serum and had no effects on total antioxidative capacity in the liver, kidney, and skeletal muscle except for the pancreas. Increased GGT activity had no effect on the glucose tolerance but could facilitate blood glucose lowering after intraperitoneal insulin administration. The results of Western blotting showed that increased GGT activity enhanced insulin-induced AKT phosphorylation at Ser473. Furthermore, GGT inhibitor could attenuate the changes of insulin-induced blood glucose uptake and AKT phosphorylation in the liver. In summary, the present study developed a liver-specific GGT-overexpressing mice model and found that GGT elevation in short term had no effects on glucose metabolism but could increase insulin sensitivity through enhancing the activity of insulin signaling pathway.
Umbilical Cord Patch Transplantation for Corneal Perforations and Descemetoceles
Authors: Xie Hua-Tao , Zhao Dan , Liu Yang , Zhang Ming-Chang
Published: June 2017

Purpose. To evaluate the clinical outcome of umbilical cord patch (UCP) transplantation for deep corneal ulcers with perforations and descemetoceles. Methods. In this retrospective, noncomparative, interventional case series, 11 eyes of 11 patients with corneal perforation or descemetocele were included. The thickness and microstructure of UCP were measured. All eyes were treated with UCP and amniotic membrane transplantation for corneal reconstruction. Corneal ulcer healing, corneal thickness, anterior chamber formation, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were recorded and analyzed. Results. The thickness of human UCP is 398.6 ± 102.8 μm (n=5) with compact aligned fibers. The average age was 56.2 ± 15.8 (ranging from 22 to 75) years. The mean follow-up period was 7.1 ± 1.7 (ranging from 5 to 10) months. Four patients had descemetocele and 7 had perforation. The anterior chambers in all the 7 perforated corneas were formed at postoperative day 1. All patients regained a normal corneal thickness and smooth corneal surface within the first postoperative month. The vision improved in 10 eyes and remained unchanged in 1 eye. No recurrence nor side effects occurred during the follow-up. Conclusions. UCP can serve as an alternative material in the treatment of corneal perforations and descemetoceles. This treatment option is also beneficial in those countries with limited cornea donors and eye bank services.
Particle Ratios from Strongly Interacting Hadronic Matter
Authors: Bashir Waseem , Uddin Saeed , Nanda Hamid
Published: June 2017

We calculate the particle ratios K+/π+, K-/π-, and Λ/π- for a strongly interacting hadronic matter using nonlinear Walecka model (NLWM) in relativistic mean field (RMF) approximation. It is found that interactions among hadrons modify K+/π+ and Λ/π- particle ratios, while K-/π- is found to be insensitive to these interactions.
Changes in N, K, and Fatty Acid Composition of Black Cumin Seeds Affected by Nitrogen Doses under Supplemental Potassium Application
Authors: Aytac Zehra , Gulmezoglu Nurdilek , Saglam Tugce , Kulan Engin Gokhan , Selengil Ugur , Hosgun Halit Levent
Published: June 2017

This study was carried out to determine the efficiency of nitrogen (N) doses (0, 30, 60, and 90 kg N ha−1) under supplemental potassium (K) application (50 kg K2O ha−1) on black cumin in 2011 and 2012. The results showed that increased N levels resulted in increasing seed yield and N and K contents in seed, while oil content decreased. The seed yield and oil yield were peaked at the doses of 60 kg N ha−1and 50 kg K ha−1. An increase in N doses caused a reduction in oil content regardless of K supply. Saturated fatty acids and oleic acid were slightly increased by K application, while minor changes in linoleic acid were detected. It was concluded that 60 kg N ha−1with supplemental K application should be advised for enhancement in seed yield, oil yield, and N and K contents in seeds of black cumin without significant changes in fatty acid composition.
Volatile Composition of Sweet Passion Fruit (Passiflora alata Curtis)
Authors: Mamede Alexandra M. G. N. , Soares Antonio G. , Oliveira Eder J. , Farah Adriana
Published: June 2017

Passiflora alata Curtis (sweet passion fruit) is a native species grown in South America, especially in Brazil. In addition to being aromatic, its pulp is sweeter and less acidic compared to traditional commercial passion fruits, and this makes it highly appreciated for fresh consumption. Its aroma is also very distinct from other passion fruit species but it has not been characterized so far. In the present study, for the first time, the volatile composition of sweet passion fruit was investigated. Two genotypes (BGM004 and BGM163) were evaluated and two SPME fibers were tested. Forty-five volatile compounds were properly identified and semiquantified. The carboxen-polydimethylsiloxane (CAR/PDMS) fiber presented better performance regarding both number and concentration of compounds. Esters and terpenes were the main volatile classes. Methyl butanoate, methyl (E)-2-butenoate, ethyl butanoate, ethyl (E)-2-butenoate, methyl 2-hexenoate, and ethyl-2-hexenoate were among major compounds. As complementary results, sugar content, titratable acidity, pH, and total soluble solids were evaluated.
Properties of ϕ-Primal Graded Ideals
Authors: Jaber Ameer
Published: June 2017

Let R be a commutative graded ring with unity 1≠0. A proper graded ideal of R is a graded ideal I of R such that I≠R. Let ϕ:I(R)→I(R)∪{∅} be any function, where I(R) denotes the set of all proper graded ideals of R. A homogeneous element a∈R is ϕ-prime to I if ra∈I-ϕ(I) where r is a homogeneous element in R; then r∈I. An element a=∑g∈Gag∈R is ϕ-prime to I if at least one component ag of a is ϕ-prime to I. Therefore, a=∑g∈Gag∈R is not ϕ-prime to I if each component ag of a is not ϕ-prime to I. We denote by νϕ(I) the set of all elements in R that are not ϕ-prime to I. We define I to be ϕ-primal if the set P=νϕ(I)+ϕ(I) (if ϕ≠ϕ∅) or P=νϕ(I) (if ϕ=ϕ∅) forms a graded ideal of R. In the work by Jaber, 2016, the author studied the generalization of primal superideals over a commutative super-ring R with unity. In this paper we generalize the work by Jaber, 2016, to the graded case and we study more properties about this generalization.
User-Centric Feedback for the Development and Review of a Unique Robotic Glove Prototype to Be Used in Therapy
Authors: Biggar Stuart James , Yao Wei , Wang Lizhen , Fan Yubo
Published: June 2017

Disability can be a great impediment to daily living in later life and is often the result of illness or trauma. Modern thoughts on treatment are orientated towards the use of robotics; however, these are often designed without consultation with the user. This paper used a 5-point questionnaire to ask former therapy patients what they felt needed further improvements from potential robotics and what features of such a system were the most important. Significant emphasis was placed on helping them to grasp (M = 4.63) as well as having a functional use. They also desired a system with clearly distinguished (M = 4.22) and easy to operate controls (M = 4.44) whilst allowing them some freedom to move around independently (M = 4.44). This provided the rationale for a prototype dual-layered vacuum glove that was sampled by healthcare staff to provide feedback that forms the basis for future improvements.
MicroRNAs Modulate Oxidative Stress in Hypertension through PARP‐1 Regulation
Authors: Dluzen Douglas F. , Kim Yoonseo , Bastian Paul , Zhang Yongqing , Lehrmann Elin , Becker Kevin G. , Noren Hooten Nicole , Evans Michele K.
Published: June 2017

Oxidative stress is thought to contribute to aging and age‐related diseases, such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, and is a risk factor for systemic arterial hypertension. Previously, we reported differential mRNA and microRNA (miRNA) expression between African American (AA) and white women with hypertension. Here, we found that the poly‐(ADP‐ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP‐1), a DNA damage sensor protein involved in DNA repair and other cellular processes, is upregulated in AA women with hypertension. To explore this mechanism, we identified two miRNAs, miR‐103a‐2‐5p and miR‐585‐5p, that are differentially expressed with hypertension and were predicted to target PARP1. Through overexpression of each miRNA‐downregulated PARP‐1 mRNA and protein levels and using heterologous luciferase reporter assays, we demonstrate that miR‐103a‐2‐5p and miR‐585‐5p regulate PARP1 through binding within the coding region. Given the important role of PARP‐1 in DNA repair, we assessed whether overexpression of miR‐103a‐2‐5p or miR‐585‐5p affected DNA damage and cell survival. Overexpression of these miRNAs enhanced DNA damage and decreased both cell survival and colony formation. These findings highlight the role for PARP‐1 in regulating oxidative DNA damage in hypertension and identify important new miRNA regulators of PARP‐1 expression. These insights may provide additional avenues to understand hypertension health disparities.
An Anonymous Access Authentication Scheme Based on Proxy Ring Signature for CPS-WMNs
Authors: Gao Tianhan , Wang Quanqi , Wang Xiaojie , Gong Xiaoxue
Published: June 2017

Access security and privacy have become a bottleneck for the popularization of future Cyber-Physical System (CPS) networks. Furthermore, users’ need for privacy-preserved access during movement procedure is more urgent. To address the anonymous access authentication issue for CPS Wireless Mesh Network (CPS-WMN), a novel anonymous access authentication scheme based on proxy ring signature is proposed. A hierarchical authentication architecture is presented first. The scheme is then achieved from the aspect of intergroup and intragroup anonymous mutual authentication through proxy ring signature mechanism and certificateless signature mechanism, respectively. We present a formal security proof of the proposed protocol with SVO logic. The simulation and performance analysis demonstrate that the proposed scheme owns higher efficiency and adaptability than the typical one.
Synthesis and Characterization of CuO, TiO2, and CuO-TiO2Mixed Oxide by a Modified Oxalate Route
Authors: Peter Etape Ekane , John Ngolui Lambi , Foba-Tendo Josepha , Yufanyi Divine Mbom , Victorine Namondo Beckley
Published: June 2017

Copper oxide (CuO), titanium oxide (TiO2), and Cu-doped TiO2nanoparticles have been synthesized by pyrolysis of their corresponding precursors initially prepared by precipitation in aqueous solution usingA. carambolafruit juice as a natural source of the precipitating agent (oxalate). The precursors were synthesized and characterized by FTIR, TGA, and PXRD. The results revealed that the precursors obtained were CuC2O4, TiO2(OH−)2C2O4, copper-doped titanium hydroxyl oxalate, and copper titanium hydroxyl oxalate. Complete decomposition for the as-prepared precursors containing titanium ions occurs at 600°C while impurity free copper oxalate decomposed at 450°C. The as-prepared precursors were decomposed and calcined at 600°C for 4 hours and the calcination products were characterized by XRD, SEM, and EDX. The results revealed the decomposition products to correspond to CuO, TiO2, Cu0.131Ti0.869O2, and CuO/TiO2.
Intravenous Thrombolysis in Acute Ischemic Stroke with Active Cancer
Authors: Nam Ki-Woong , Kim Chi Kyung , Kim Tae Jung , An Sang Joon , Oh Kyungmi , Ko Sang-Bae , Yoon Byung-Woo
Published: June 2017

Ischemic stroke patients with active cancer are known to have poor clinical outcomes. However, the efficacy and safety of intravenous alteplase (IV t-PA) in this group are still unclear. In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether stroke patients with cancer had poor clinical outcomes after use of IV t-PA. We reviewed ischemic stroke patients with active cancer treated with isolated IV t-PA between April 2010 and March 2015 at three national university hospitals from the registry for ischemic stroke in Korea. The clinical outcomes of early neurological deterioration (END), hemorrhagic transformation, in-hospital mortality, 3-month modified Rankin scale (mRS), the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) discharge score, and duration of hospitalization were compared. We enrolled a total of 12 patients, and the cohort showed poor outcomes including 4 (33%) END events, 7 (58%) hemorrhagic transformations, 3 (25%) in-hospital mortality cases, and 7 (58%) poor mRS (3–6) scores. Additionally, the cryptogenic stroke group (n= 6) more frequently had high mRS scores (P= 0.043) as well as tendencies for frequent END events, hemorrhagic transformations, in-hospital mortality cases, and higher discharge NIHSS scores without statistical significance. In conclusion, ischemic stroke patients with active cancer, especially those with a cryptogenic mechanism, showed poor clinical outcomes after use of IV t-PA.
Measuring the Radial Position of Defects within Optical Fibers Using Skew Rays
Authors: Chen George Y. , Otten Dale , Kang Yvonne Qiongyue , Monro Tanya M. , Lancaster David G.
Published: June 2017

Defects within optical fibers can cause premature failure in fiber-based systems and must be detected early to avoid performance degradation. Addressing this need can ensure that no defective optical fibers are being used by end users and improve processes to reduce the number of defects during manufacturing. The main challenge to date has been developing a technique that can measure defects along long lengths of fiber, within opaque packaging, and with position information. We demonstrate a simple and novel technique for detecting and radially resolving microscopic defects in packaged/buried fibers using an angle-resolved interrogator that analyzes the transmission of different ray groups. We have measured the accuracy to be as low as ±2 μm, which is sufficient for most fibers that have diameters in the order of ~100 μm.
An Advance‐Tracing Boundary Element Method in the Time Domain for Solving the Radiating Problem of an Arbitrary Obstacle Accelerating Randomly
Authors: Kao Jui-Hsiang
Published: June 2017

This research develops an Advance‐Tracing Boundary Element Method in the time domain to calculate the waves that radiate from an immersed obstacle moving with random acceleration. The moving velocity of the immersed obstacle is multifrequency and is projected along the normal direction of every element on the obstacle. The projected normal velocity of every element is presented by the Fourier series and includes the advance‐tracing time, which is equal to a quarter period of the moving velocity. The moving velocity is treated as a known boundary condition. The computing scheme is based on the boundary integral equation in the time domain, and the approach process is carried forward in a loop from the first time step to the last. At each time step, the radiated pressure on each element is updated until obtaining a convergent result. The Advance‐Tracing Boundary Element Method is suitable for calculating the radiating problem from an arbitrary obstacle moving with random acceleration in the time domain and can be widely applied to the shape design of an immersed obstacle in order to attain security and confidentiality.
A Comparison Study on Co- and Counterrotating Dual-Rotor System with Squeeze Film Dampers and Intermediate Bearing
Authors: Wang Fei , Luo Gui-Huo , Yan Shu , Cui Hai-Tao
Published: June 2017

Nonlinear dynamic model of a coaxial rotor system was established with a method combining the finite element method and the fixed interface modal synthesis method. Then an implicit time domain method was presented to solve the nonlinear equations of motion; thus dynamic characteristics of the rotor system can be obtained. With nonlinear forces of squeeze film damper and intermediate bearing considered, nonlinear dynamic response characteristics of the co- and counterrotating coaxial rotor system under multiple unbalance forces were studied and compared in this work. It was found that the critical speeds of the corotating system were equal to or slightly higher than those of the counterrotating case due to the gyroscopic moments. The results showed that the unbalance excitation frequencies are dominant in the responses of the rotor system. Besides, due to coupling effect of the intermediate bearing some combinations of the unbalance excitation frequencies were also observed in the spectrogram but the combinations were different for co- and counterrotating cases. Stability and periodicity of the rotor system were investigated with bifurcation diagram, Poincare map, and phase diagram. It was found that the rotor system executes four-period quasi-periodic motion around critical speeds.
Clinical Relevance of HLA Antibodies in Kidney Transplantation: Recent Data from the Heidelberg Transplant Center and the Collaborative Transplant Study
Authors: Süsal Caner , Fichtner Alexander , Tönshoff Burkhard , Mehrabi Arianeb , Zeier Martin , Morath Christian
Published: June 2017

Herein, we summarize our recent findings from the international Collaborative Transplant Study (CTS) and Heidelberg Transplant Center regarding the role of HLA antibodies in kidney transplantation and their application into the clinical routine. Based on the antibody findings from the CTS serum study, an algorithm was developed in 2006 for the transplantation of high-risk sensitized patients at the Heidelberg Transplant Center which includes seven different pre- and posttransplant measures. Using this algorithm, the number of transplantations could be increased in high-risk presensitized patients and the previously existing impact of antibodies on graft survival could greatly be diminished but not totally eliminated. More recent findings led to the hypothesis that T cell help from a preactivated immune system supports the harmful effects of pretransplant donor-specific HLA antibodies that otherwise disappear in many cases after transplantation without any consequence.
Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy Leading to Severe Vitamin K Deficiency and Coagulopathy
Authors: Maldonado Maria , Alhousseini Ali , Awadalla Michael , Idler Jay , Welch Robert , Puder Karoline , Patwardhan Manasi , Gonik Bernard
Published: June 2017

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy is seldom associated with significant vitamin K deficiency. We report a case of a 16-year-old primigravid patient at 24 weeks and 3 days of gestation who presented with pruritus, hematuria, and preterm labor. Laboratory work-up showed severe coagulopathy with Prothrombin Time (PT) of 117.8 seconds, International Normalized Ratio (INR) of 10.34, and elevated transaminases suggestive of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Her serum vitamin K level was undetectable (<0.1 nMol/L). Initial therapy consisted of intramuscular replacement of vitamin K and administration of fresh frozen plasma. Her hematuria and preterm labor resolved and she was discharged. She presented in active labor and delivered at 27 weeks and 1 day. Her bile acids (93 μ/L) and INR (2.32) had worsened. She delivered a male infant, 1150 grams with Apgar scores 7 and 9. The newborn received 0.5 mg of intramuscular vitamin K shortly after delivery but went on to develop bilateral grade III intraventricular hemorrhages by day 5. Intrahepatic cholestasis in pregnancy and nutrition issues were identified as the main risk factors for the severe coagulopathy of this patient. This case underlines the importance of evaluation of possible severe coagulopathy in patients with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy in order to avoid serious maternal or fetal adverse outcomes.
A Genetic Algorithm Based Approach for Solving the Minimum Dominating Set of Queens Problem
Authors: Alharbi Saad , Venkat Ibrahim
Published: June 2017

In the field of computing, combinatorics, and related areas, researchers have formulated several techniques for the Minimum Dominating Set of Queens Problem (MDSQP) pertaining to the typical chessboard based puzzles. However, literature shows that limited research has been carried out to solve the MDSQP using bioinspired algorithms. To fill this gap, this paper proposes a simple and effective solution based on genetic algorithms to solve this classical problem. We report results which demonstrate that near optimal solutions have been determined by the GA for different board sizes ranging from 8 × 8 to 11 × 11.
Formation and Characterization of Copper Nanocube-Decorated Reduced Graphene Oxide Film
Authors: Khan M. Z. H. , Rahman M. A. , Yasmin P. , Tareq F. K. , Yuta N. , Komeda T. , Jahan R. A.
Published: June 2017

In this study, we present a new approach for the formation and deposition of Cu nanocube-decorated reduced graphene oxide (rGO-CuNCs) nanosheet on indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode using very simple method. Cubic Cu nanocrystals have been successfully fabricated on rGO by a chemical reduction method at low temperature. The morphologies of the synthesized materials were characterized by ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The as-formed CuNCs were found to be homogeneously and uniformly decorated on rGO nanosheets. We demonstrated that the individual rGO sheets can be readily reduced and decorated with CuNCs under a mild condition using L-ascorbic acid (L-AA). Such novel ITO/rGO-CuNCs represent promising platform for future device fabrication and electrocatalytic applications.
Chitinase-3-Like Protein 1 (YKL-40) Reflects the Severity of Symptoms in Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Salomon Joanna , Matusiak Łukasz , Nowicka-Suszko Danuta , Szepietowski Jacek C
Published: June 2017

Chitinase-3-like protein 1 (YKL-40) is suggested to be associated with type 2 T helper response and atopy. The aim of the study was the evaluation of serum YKL-40 level in atopic dermatitis. The study was performed on 59 patients: 27 males and 32 females, aged from 18 to 64 years. The severity of the disease was assessed by the SCORAD and objective SCORAD indexes. The severity of pruritus was measured by the visual analogue scale. Blood samples were taken to examine serum level of YKL-40, total IgE level, C-reactive protein level, white blood cell count, and neutrophil count. YKL-40 serum levels were significantly higher in patients with atopic dermatitis compared to the controls. There was a positive correlation between YKL-40 concentration and SCORAD, objective SCORAD, and pruritus. This study has shown that YKL-40 serum level is increased in patients with atopic dermatitis and reflects the severity of symptoms.
Improving Daytime Planetary Boundary Layer Height Determination from CALIOP: Validation Based on Ground-Based Lidar Station
Authors: Liu Zhao , Mortier Augustin , Li Zhengqiang , Hou Weizhen , Goloub Philippe , Lv Yang , Chen Xingfeng , Li Donghui , Li Kaitao , Xie Yisong
Published: June 2017

An integrated algorithm by combining the advantages of the wavelet covariance method and the improved maximum variance method was developed to determine the planetary boundary layer height (PBLH) from the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) measurements, and an aerosol fraction threshold was applied to the integrated algorithm considering the applicability of the two methods. We compared the CALIOP retrieval with the measurements of PBLH derived from nine years of ground-based Lidar synchronous observations located in Lille, north of France. The results indicate that a good correlation (R≥0.79) exists between the PBLHs derived from CALIOP and ground-based Lidar under clear sky conditions. The mean absolute differences of PBLHs are, respectively, of 206 m and 106 m before and after the removal of the aloft aerosol layer. The results under cloudy sky conditions show a lower agreement (R=0.48) in regard of the comparisons performed under clear sky conditions. Besides, the spatial correlation of PBLHs decreases with the increasing spatial distance between CALIOP footprint and Lille observation platform. Based on the above analysis, the PBLHs can be effectively derived by the integrated algorithm under clear sky conditions, while larger mean absolute difference (i.e., 527 m) exists under cloudy sky conditions.
Nanofeatured Titanium Surfaces for Dental Implantology: Biological Effects, Biocompatibility, and Safety
Authors: Rodriguez y Baena Ruggero , Rizzo Silvana , Manzo Luigi , Lupi Saturnino Marco
Published: June 2017

Nanotechnology enables the control and modification of the chemical and topographical characteristics of materials of size less than 100 nm, down to 10 nm. The goal of this review is to discuss the role of titanium substrates as nanoscale surface modification tools for improving various aspects of implantology, including osseointegration and antibacterial properties. Techniques that can impart nanoscale topographical features to endosseous implants are described. Since the advent of nanotechnology, cellular specific functions, such as adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, have been better understood. By applying these technologies, it is possible to direct cellular responses and improve osseointegration. Conversely, modulating surface features by nanotechnology could have the effect of decreased bacterial colonization.
White Matter Injury and Recovery after Hypertensive Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Zuo Shilun , Pan Pengyu , Li Qiang , Chen Yujie , Feng Hua
Published: June 2017

Hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) could very probably trigger white matter injury in patients. Through the continuous study of white matter injury after hypertensive ICH, we achieve a more profound understanding of the pathophysiological mechanism of its occurrence and development. At the same time, we found a series of drugs and treatment methods for the white matter repair. In the current reality, the research paradigm of white matter injury after hypertensive ICH is relatively obsolete or incomplete, and there are still lots of deficiencies in the research. In the face of the profound changes of stroke research perspective, we believe that the combination of the lenticulostriate artery, nerve nuclei of the hypothalamus-thalamus-basal ganglia, and the white matter fibers located within the capsula interna will be beneficial to the research of white matter injury and repair. This paper has classified and analyzed the study of white matter injury and repair after hypertensive ICH and also rethought the shortcomings of the current research. We hope that it could help researchers further explore and study white matter injury and repair after hypertensive ICH.
Experimental and Numerical Research on Cylindrical Tubes under Outer Cylindrical Explosive Waves
Authors: Yaguang Sui , Dezhi Zhang , Shiying Tang , Bo Chen
Published: June 2017

Cylindrical explosive loading has an important application in explosive working, researching on weapon damage, and explosive-driving load. This study uses experimental and numerical methods to study the response of long and thin tubes when subjected to cylindrical explosive loading. The flake-like charge and multipoint initiation technique were adopted to load cylindrical explosive waves. Experimental results showed that the method could produce uniform deformation in certain parts of the long tube, but partial spall injuries occurred after the explosion. The macroscopic and microscopic deformation of tubes were analyzed. Numerical simulations were conducted to investigate the detailed response of the tube subjected to a cylindrical explosive wave. The results indicate that the collision of explosive waves brought inconsistencies in pressure and velocity. The pressure and velocity in the collision region were significantly higher than those of other parts, which caused the collision region to be easily damaged.
Organs Blood Flow during Elevation of Body Temperature in Sevoflurane Anesthetized Rats
Authors: Shimo Koichi , Takakura Ko , Shigemi Kenji
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study is to investigate how elevation of body temperature changes organs blood flow during sevoflurane anesthesia. We conducted in vivo research on 14 male Wistar rats to monitor pulse rate and arterial blood pressure and measure hepatic, small intestinal, renal, and descending aortic blood flow using a laser Doppler blood flowmeter. We assessed the changes in organ blood flow, pulse rate, and arterial blood pressure during elevation of the rats’ body temperatures up to 41.5°C under anesthesia with 2.0% or 3.0% sevoflurane. We concluded that elevation of body temperature up to 39.5°C does not change hepatic, small intestinal, and renal blood flow during 2.0 and 3.0% sevoflurane anesthesia.
Hydrogeochemical Characteristics and Evolution of Hot Springs in Eastern Tibetan Plateau Geothermal Belt, Western China: Insight from Multivariate Statistical Analysis
Authors: Shi Zheming , Liao Fu , Wang Guangcai , Xu Qingyu , Mu Wenqing , Sun Xiaoyi
Published: June 2017

The eastern Tibetan Plateau geothermal belt is one of the important medium-high temperature geothermal belts in China. However, less work has been done on the hydrochemical characteristic and its geological origin. Understanding the chemical characteristics and the hydrochemical evolution processes is important in evaluating the geothermal energy potential in this area. In the present study, we discussed the hydrochemical properties and their origins of 39 hot springs located in the eastern Tibetan Plateau geothermal belt (Kangding-Litang-Batang geothermal belt). Cluster analysis and factor analysis are employed to character the hydrochemical properties of hot springs in different fault zones and the possible hydrochemical evolution processes of these hot springs. Our study shows that the hot springs can be divided into three groups based on their locations. The hot springs in the first group mainly originate from the volcanic rock and the springs in the second group originate from the metamorphic rock while the springs in the third group originate from the result of mixture of shallow water. Water-rock interaction, cation exchange, and the water environment are the three dominant factors that control the hydrochemical evolution process in the eastern Tibetan Plateau. These results are also in well agreement with the isotopic and chemical analysis.
A Migration Method of MPI Program Combining Local Library Replacement and Instruction Translation
Authors: Li Nan , Pang Jianmin , Shan Zheng
Published: June 2017

Binary translation acts as a main method used to solve software compatibility among different instruction set architectures (ISAs), yet the main objects that the binary translator deals with are serial programs but not parallel programs. We propose a hybrid method combining local library replacement and instruction translation based on a formal model built to describe the equivalent when migrating MPI programs between different clusters. The shared codes in a MPI program (MPI library function call) are treated by executing local libraries, and the other parts are done by dynamic binary translation. Also, during the course of dealing with local library functions, we propose a method of program flow redirection by designing two algorithms along with hierarchically encapsulating local libraries. A framework called MPI‐QEMU is designed to implement migrating MPI program of 64 bits from X86‐64/Linux platform to the domestic SW platform which is verified by experiment.
A Mathematical Model of Malaria Transmission with Structured Vector Population and Seasonality
Authors: Traoré Bakary , Sangaré Boureima , Traoré Sado
Published: June 2017

In this paper, we formulate a mathematical model of nonautonomous ordinary differential equations describing the dynamics of malaria transmission with age structure for the vector population. The biting rate of mosquitoes is considered as a positive periodic function which depends on climatic factors. The basic reproduction ratio of the model is obtained and we show that it is the threshold parameter between the extinction and the persistence of the disease. Thus, by applying the theorem of comparison and the theory of uniform persistence, we prove that if the basic reproduction ratio is less than 1, then the disease-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable and if it is greater than 1, then there exists at least one positive periodic solution. Finally, numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate our analytical results.
Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration in the Very Old (≥90 Years): Epidemiology, Adherence to Treatment, and Comparison of Efficacy
Authors: Subhi Yousif , Sørensen Torben Lykke
Published: June 2017

Purpose. To investigate neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in patients aged ≥90 years from several perspectives for a comprehensive overview: prevalence, presenting characteristics, treatment adherence, reasons for discontinuation, and efficacy of antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment comparing Ranibizumab and Aflibercept.Methods. In this retrospective chart review, we determined the prevalence and presenting characteristics by reviewing all data for patients referred to our department with treatment-naïve neovascular AMD. By looking at historical cohorts, we determined adherence to treatment, reasons for discontinuation, and treatment outcomes after loading dose, 12 months, and 24 months.Results. Patients aged ≥90 years constituted 7% of the patients. Treatment was discontinued in 51%, primarily because of death and treatment burden. Mean change in best-corrected visual acuity was 3.2, 1.5, and −2.2 ETDRS letters at 4, 12, and 24 months, respectively. Aflibercept was superior to Ranibizumab in visual and anatomic outcomes. After two years of treatment, patients losing ≥15 ETDRS letters made up 19% in the Aflibercept group and 26% in the Ranibizumab group.Conclusions. We propose that the very old patients with neovascular AMD may constitute a distinctive group warranting special attention and possibilities for individualized therapy. Possible differences between anti-VEGF agents need further investigations.
Viscosities and Conductivities of [BMIM]Zn(Ac)xCly(x=0,1,2,3; y=3,2,1,0) Ionic Liquids at Different Temperatures
Authors: Xu Hang , Zhang Dandan
Published: June 2017

Viscosity and conductivity data of BMIMZnAcxCly(x=0,1,2,3;  y=3,2,1,0) ionic liquids were detected at temperature ranging from 323.15 to 353.15 K with an interval of 5 K. The conductivities of different ionic liquids at the same temperature followed the trend [BMIM][ZnAcCl2] > [BMIM][ZnAc2Cl] > [BMIM][ZnCl3] > [BMIM][ZnAc3]. The viscosities of different ionic liquid abided by the order [BMIM][ZnCl3] > [BMIM][ZnAcCl2] > [BMIM][ZnAc2Cl] > [BMIM][ZnAc3]. Acetate ion could reduce the viscosity of ionic liquids. The relationship between viscosity/conductivity and temperature obeyed the Arrhenius equation and Vogel-Fulcher-Tammann (VFT) equation very well with above 0.99 correlation coefficients.
Can a Biodegradable Implanted Bilayered Drug Delivery System Loaded with BMP-2/BMP-12 Take an Effective Role in the Biological Repair Process of Bone–Tendon Injuries? A Preliminary Report
Authors: Komur Baran , Akyuva Yener , Karaslan Numan , Isyar Mehmet , Gumustas Seyit Ali , Yilmaz Ibrahim , Akkaya Semih , Sirin Duygu Yasar , Mutlu Cagri Ata , Batmaz Ahmet Guray , Guler Olcay , Mahirogullari Mahir
Published: June 2017

Background. Use of biodegradable and biocompatible materials in the orthopedic surgery is gaining popularity. In this research, the rate of controlled release of a bilayered prototype biomaterial designed to promote osteoblastic and tenoblastic activity was calculated using pharmacochemical methods. Methods. The first part of the design, composed of a sodium tetraborate, polyvinyl alcohol, and starch based hydrogel, was loaded with bone morphogenic protein-2. The second part which was composed of a sodium tetraborate, polyvinyl alcohol, and chitosan based hydrogel was loaded with bone morphogenic protein-12. Osteochondral and tendon tissue specimens were obtained from patients with a diagnosis of gonarthrosis and primary bone cells and tendon cells cultures were prepared following treatment with collagenase enzyme. Cell samples were collected from the groups by means of an invert light microscope and environmental scanning electron microscope underwent at the 1st and 21st days. The level of osteogenic differentiation was measured by the activity of alkaline phosphatase. For the statistical evaluation of the obtained data, groups were compared with post hoc Tukey test following analysis of variance. Level of significance was accepted to be <0,01. Results. Both osteogenic and tenogenic stimulation were observed in the cultured specimens. In comparison to the control groups, the rate of proliferation of healthy cells was found to be higher in the groups to which the design was added (p<0.01). Conclusions. Our research is a preliminary report that describes a study conducted in an in vitro experimental setting. We believe that such prototype systems may be pioneers in targeted drug therapies after reconstructional surgeries.
Substance Use as a Strong Predictor of Poor Academic Achievement among University Students
Authors: Mekonen Tesfa , Fekadu Wubalem , Mekonnen Tefera Chane , Workie Shimelash Bitew
Published: June 2017

Background. Substance use is a growing concern globally and its association with students’ academic performance is not well studied.Objective. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence of substance use (alcohol, tobacco, and khat) and its association with academic performance among university students.Methods. Cross-sectional study was conducted among Wolaita Sodo University students. A total of 747 students were selected by using cluster sampling technique. Data were collected by pretested self-administered questionnaire and examined using descriptive statistics and linear regression with 95% confidence intervals. Variables withpvalue of less than 0.05 were considered as statistically significant.Result. Prevalence of substance use (alcohol, tobacco, and khat) was 28.6%. Substance use (current smoking, chewing khat at least weekly, drinking alcohol on a daily basis, and having intimate friend who uses substance) was significantly and negatively associated with students’ academic performance.Conclusion. Substance use among Wolaita Sodo University students was as common as other studies in Sub-Saharan countries and negatively associated with students’ academic achievement. The common practice of substance use and its association with poor academic performance demand the universities to have a good control of substance and to implement youth friendly activities.
A Feasibility Study of Geometric-Decomposition Coil Compression in MRI Radial Acquisitions
Authors: Wang Jing , Chen Zhifeng , Wang Yiran , Yuan Lixia , Xia Ling
Published: June 2017

Receiver arrays with a large number of coil elements are becoming progressively available because of their increased signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and enhanced parallel imaging performance. However, longer reconstruction time and intensive computational cost have become significant concerns as the number of channels increases, especially in some iterative reconstructions. Coil compression can effectively solve this problem by linearly combining the raw data from multiple coils into fewer virtual coils. In this work, geometric-decomposition coil compression (GCC) is applied to radial sampling (both linear-angle and golden-angle patterns are discussed) for better compression. GCC, which is different from directly compressing in k-space, is performed separately in each spatial location along the fully sampled directions, then followed by an additional alignment step to guarantee the smoothness of the virtual coil sensitivities. Both numerical simulation data and in vivo data were tested. Experimental results demonstrated that the GCC algorithm can achieve higher SNR and lower normalized root mean squared error values than the conventional principal component analysis approach in radial acquisitions.
An Optimization Method of Passenger Assignment for Customized Bus
Authors: Cao Yang , Wang Jian
Published: June 2017

This study proposes an optimization method of passenger assignment on customized buses (CB). Our proposed method guarantees benefits to passengers by balancing the elements of travel time, waiting time, delay, and economic cost. The optimization problem was solved using a Branch and Bound (B&B) algorithm based on the shortest path for the selected stations. A simulation‐based evaluation of the proposed optimization method was conducted. We find that a CB service can save 38.33% in average travel time, 38.33% in average waiting time, and 27.78% in delay penalties, all at an acceptable ticket price. The variations are caused by different degrees of busload. A detailed investigation revealed that a CB can significantly reduce travel time, waiting time, and delays, with the degree of benefits showing a decreasing trend with corresponding increases in busload. This finding indicates that CBs with smaller busloads can more flexibly transport passengers and provide a greater level of benefits. At the same time, a small busload strategy can be implemented more easily and in the near future on a test basis in urban China areas.
Autistic Traits Affect P300 Response to Unexpected Events, regardless of Mental State Inferences
Authors: Ishikawa Mitsuhiko , Itakura Shoji , Tanabe Hiroki C.
Published: June 2017

Limited use of contextual information has been suggested as a way of understanding cognition in people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, it has also been argued that individuals with ASD may have difficulties inferring others’ mental states. Here, we examined how individuals with different levels of autistic traits respond to contextual deviations by measuring event-related potentials that reflect context usage. The Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) was used to quantify autistic-like traits in 28 university students, and 19 participants were defined as Low or High AQ groups. To additionally examine inferences about mental state, two belief conditions (with or without false belief) were included. Participants read short stories in which the final sentence included either an expected or an unexpected word and rated the word’s degree of deviation from expectation. P300 waveform analysis revealed that unexpected words were associated with larger P300 waveforms for the Low AQ group, but smaller P300 responses in the High AQ group. Additionally, AQ social skill subscores were positively correlated with evaluation times in the Unexpected condition, whether a character’s belief was false or not. This suggests that autistic traits can affect responses to unexpected events, possibly because of decreased availability of context information.
Antihepatocarcinoma Effect of Portulaca oleracea L. in Mice by PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Nrf2/HO‐1/NF‐κB Pathway
Authors: Guoyin Zheng , Hao Peng , Min Li , Wei Gu , Zhe Chen , Changquan Ling
Published: June 2017

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the pharmacological effects of Portulaca oleracea L. (Purslane) (PL) on N‐nitrosodiethylamine‐ (NDEA‐) induced hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) and explore its potential mechanism. Mice were randomly assigned to four groups: control group, NDEA group, NDEA + Purslane (100 mg/kg) group, and NDEA + Purslane (200 mg/kg) group. The animal of each group was given NDEA (100 ppm) in drinking water. 1 h later, Purslane dissolved in PBS was intragastrically administered for continuous seven days. The results showed that Purslane reduced the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in liver and serum. Purslane also reduced the contents of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), IL‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and methane dicarboxylic aldehyde (MDA) and restored the activity of superoxygen dehydrogenises (SOD) in serum. Purslane could obviously attenuate the hepatic pathological alteration. Furthermore, treatment with Purslane effectively inhibited the phosphorylations of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (Akt), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB), and inhibitor of NF‐κBα (IκBα) and upregulated the expressions of NF‐E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase‐ (HO‐) 1. In conclusion, our research suggested that Purslane exhibited protective effects on NDEA‐induced hepatocellular carcinomas by anti‐inflammatory and antioxidative properties via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Nrf2/HO‐1/NF‐κB pathway.