bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on Students Acquisition of IT Knowledge and Its Implication on M‐Learning
Authors: Balavivekanandhan A. , Arulchelvan S.
Published: October 2015

The boom in mobile technology has seen a dramatic rise in its usage. This has led to usage of mobiles even in the academic context for further learning. Although the advantages of m‐learning (mobile learning) are visible, studies are required to address the aspects that shape its virtual expectations. The acceptance of mobile technology relies mostly on how the students feel about mobile technology fitting into their requirements. Yet, in spite of the significance in the potential of m‐learning, research studies have only inadequate data to identify the factors that influence their decision to adapt the mobile technology for the purpose of learning. To deal with this space, the present study was undertaken to correlate the IT skills of students with their impact on their acceptance of m‐learning. The research study found that the perceived usability along with the usefulness of m‐learning impacts the association between IT expertise and the objective of learners’ acceptance of m‐learning. A survey of 892 students from Engineering, Arts, and Science Colleges found that IT skills influence student’s acquisition of m‐learning technology. Specialized and advanced skills in mobile technology along with basic skills play a significant role in influencing a student to accept m‐learning. But no specific substantiation has been established to support the statement that highly developed IT skills have influenced the students to accept m‐learning.
Electromagnetic Pulse of a Vertical Electric Dipole in the Presence of Three-Layered Region
Authors: Cheng D. , Gu T. T. , Cao P. , He T. , Li K.
Published: October 2015

Approximate formulas are obtained for the electromagnetic pulses due to a delta-function current in a vertical electric dipole on the planar surface of a perfect conductor coated by a dielectric layer. The new approximated formulas for the electromagnetic field in time domain are retreated analytically and some new results are obtained. Computations and discussions are carried out for the time-domain field components radiated by a vertical electric dipole in the presence of three-layered region. It is shown that the trapped-surface-wave terms should be included in the total transient field when both the vertical electric dipole and the observation point are on or near the planar surface of the dielectric-coated earth.
Effects of Antitumor Necrosis Factor Therapy on Osteoprotegerin, Neopterin, and sRANKL Concentrations in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Kurz Katharina , Herold Manfred , Russe Elisabeth , Klotz Werner , Weiss Guenter , Fuchs Dietmar
Published: October 2015

Background. Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by joint erosions, progressive focal bone loss, and chronic inflammation.Methods. 20 female patients with moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis were treated with anti-TNF-antibody adalimumab in addition to concomitant antirheumatic therapies. Patients were assessed for overall disease activity using the DAS28 score, and neopterin, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations as well as osteoprotegerin (OPG) and soluble receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (sRANKL) concentrations were determined before therapy and at week 12. Neopterin as well as OPG and sRANKL were determined by commercial ELISAs.Results. Before anti-TNF therapy patients presented with high disease activity and elevated concentrations of circulating inflammatory markers. OPG concentrations correlated with neopterin (rs=0.494,p=0.027), but not with DAS28. OPG concentrations and disease activity scores declined during anti-TNF-treatment (bothp<0.02). Patients who achieved remission (n=7) or showed a good response according to EULAR criteria (n=13) presented with initially higher baseline OPG levels, which subsequently decreased significantly during treatment (p=0.018for remission,p=0.011for good response).Conclusions. Adalimumab therapy was effective in modifying disease activity and reducing proinflammatory and bone remodelling cascades.
Outcomes of Direct Vision Internal Urethrotomy for Bulbar Urethral Strictures: Technique Modification with High Dose Triamcinolone Injection
Authors: Modh Rishi , Cai Peter Y. , Sheffield Alyssa , Yeung Lawrence L.
Published: October 2015

Objective. To evaluate the recurrence rate of bulbar urethral strictures managed with cold knife direct vision internal urethrotomy and high dose corticosteroid injection.Methods. 28 patients with bulbar urethral strictures underwent direct vision internal urethrotomy with high dose triamcinolone injection into the periurethral tissue and were followed up for recurrence.Results. Our cohort had a mean age of 60 years and average stricture length of 1.85 cm, and 71% underwent multiple previous urethral stricture procedures with an average of 5.7 procedures each. Our technique modification of high dose corticosteroid injection had a recurrence rate of 29% at a mean follow-up of 20 months with a low rate of urinary tract infections. In patients who failed treatment, mean time to stricture recurrence was 7 months. Patients who were successfully treated had significantly better International Prostate Symptom Scores at 6, 9, and 12 months. There was no significant difference in maximum flow velocity on Uroflowmetry at last follow-up but there was significant difference in length of follow-up (p=0.02).Conclusions. High dose corticosteroid injection at the time of direct vision internal urethrotomy is a safe and effective procedure to delay anatomical and symptomatic recurrence of bulbar urethral strictures, particularly in those who are poor candidates for urethroplasty.
AnIn VitroSystem Comprising Immortalized Hypothalamic Neuronal Cells (GT1–7 Cells) for Evaluation of the Neuroendocrine Effects of Essential Oils
Authors: Mizuno Dai , Konoha-Mizuno Keiko , Mori Miwako , Yamazaki Kentaro , Haneda Toshihiro , Koyama Hironari , Kawahara Masahiro
Published: October 2015

Aromatherapy and plant-based essential oils are widely used as complementary and alternative therapies for symptoms including anxiety. Furthermore, it was reportedly effective for the care of several diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and depressive illness. To investigate the pharmacological effects of essential oils, we developed anin vitroassay system using immortalized hypothalamic neuronal cells (GT1–7 cells). In this study, we evaluated the effects of essential oils on neuronal death induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), aluminum, zinc, or the antagonist of estrogen receptor (tamoxifen). Among tests of various essential oils, we found that H2O2-induced neuronal death was attenuated by the essential oils of damask rose, eucalyptus, fennel, geranium, ginger, kabosu, mandarin, myrrh, and neroli. Damask rose oil had protective effects against aluminum-induced neurotoxicity, while geranium and rosemary oil showed protective activity against zinc-induced neurotoxicity. In contrast, geranium oil and ginger oil enhanced the neurotoxicity of tamoxifen. Ourin vitroassay system could be useful for the neuropharmacological and endocrine pharmacological studies of essential oils.
Antidiabetic Activity ofRuellia tuberosaL., Role ofα-Amylase Inhibitor:In Silico,In Vitro, andIn VivoApproaches
Authors: Ratna Wulan Dyah , Priyo Utomo Edi , Mahdi Chanif
Published: October 2015

Ruellia tuberosaL. is a folk remedy in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. However, its hypoglycemic activity has not been investigated so far. In the present study, the antidiabetic mechanism of the n-hexane fraction of methanolic extract (HFME) of this plant was investigatedin silico,in vitro, andin vivo.In silicostudy was performed using AutoDock4.2 software.In vitro  α-amylase inhibitory activity was investigated by starch-iodine method. A single dose of 450 mg/kg HFME for 14 days was subjected to an antidiabetic screeningin vivoby a multiple low dose streptozotocin (MLD-STZ) induced rats. Molecular modeling results show that Betulin exhibited noncompetitiveα-amylase inhibitory activities. The effect of HFME elicited significant reductions of diabetic rat blood glucose. A single dose administration of HFME inhibitedα-amylase activityin vivo(P<0.01) compared to a diabetic control group. Moreover, this extract strongly inhibited theα-amylase activityin vitro(IC500.14 ± 0.005 mg/mL). It is concluded that HFME exerted an antidiabetic effect viaα-amylase inhibitor. Our findings provide a possible hypoglycemic action ofR. tuberosaL. as an alternative therapy in the management of diabetes.
Berberine Reduces Neurotoxicity Related to Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in Rats
Authors: Ghareeb Doaa A. , Khalil Sofia , Hafez Hani S. , Bajorath Jürgen , Ahmed Hany E. A. , Sarhan Eman , Elwakeel Eiman , El-Demellawy Maha A.
Published: October 2015

Berberine is a plant alkaloid that has several pharmacological effects such as antioxidant, antilipidemic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) triggers different aspects of disorders such as impaired endogenous lipid metabolism, hypercholesterolemia, oxidative stress, and neurotoxicity. In this study, we examined the mechanism by which NASH induces neurotoxicity and the protective effect of berberine against both NASH and its associated neurotoxicity. NASH induced rats showed significant impairments in lipid metabolism with increased serum triglycerides, cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The NASH induced group also demonstrated a significant oxidative stress which is characterized by increased TBARs level and decreased antioxidant capacity such as GSH and SOD levels. Moreover, the NASH induction was associated with inflammation which was demonstrated by increased TNFαand nitric oxide levels. Hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia were observed in the NASH induced group. Also, our results showed a significant increase in the expression of the acetylcholine esterase (AChE) and amyloid beta precursor protein (AβPP). These changes were significantly correlated with decreased insulin degrading enzyme (IDE) and beta-amyloid40(Aβ40) and increased beta-amyloid42(Aβ42) in the hippocampal region. Daily administration of berberine (50 mg/kg) for three weeks ameliorated oxidative stress, inflammation, hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and the observed neurotoxicity.
Primary Aneurysm of the Medial Marginal Vein of the Foot
Authors: Casian D. , Culiuc V.
Published: October 2015

The primary superficial venous aneurysms of the foot are very rare. A 34-year-old female patient developed a dorsal foot mass during the second trimester of pregnancy with no history of previous trauma, puncture, or infection. One year later, she was referred to the surgical department for excision of “foot hygroma.” Based on the clinical findings, the venous aneurysm was suspected and duplex ultrasound confirmed the diagnosis of the aneurysm of the medial marginal vein of the foot. Excision of aneurysm with bipolar ligation of marginal vein was performed under local anesthesia. The postoperative evolution was uneventful. The authors hope that the presented case report will increase the awareness of general practitioners, dermatologists, and surgeons regarding the superficial venous aneurysms of lower limbs.
Surgical Repair of Bulbar Urethral Strictures: Advantages of Ventral, Dorsal, and Lateral Approaches and When to Choose Them
Authors: Venkatesan Krishnan , Blakely Stephen , Nikolavsky Dmitriy
Published: October 2015

Objectives. To review the available literature describing the three most common approaches for buccal mucosal graft (BMG) augmentation during reconstruction of bulbar urethral strictures. Due to its excellent histological properties, buccal mucosa graft is now routinely used in urethral reconstruction. The best approach for the placement of such a graft remains controversial.Methods. PubMed search was conducted for available English literature describing outcomes of bulbar urethroplasty augmentation techniques using dorsal, ventral, and lateral approaches. Prospective and retrospective studies as well as meta-analyses and latest systematic reviews were included.Results. Most of the studies reviewed are of retrospective nature and majority described dorsal or ventral approaches. Medium- and long-term outcomes of all three approaches were comparable ranging between 80 and 88%.Conclusion. Various techniques of BMG augmentation urethroplasty have been described for repairs of bulbar urethral strictures. In this review, we describe and compare the three most common “competing” approaches for bulbar urethroplasty with utilization of BMG.
Puerarin Inhibits oxLDL-Induced Macrophage Activation and Foam Cell Formation in Human THP1 Macrophage
Authors: Zhang Heng , Zhai Zhenhua , Zhou Hongyu , Li Yao , Li Xiaojie , Lin Yuhan , Li Weihong , Shi Yueping , Zhou Ming-Sheng
Published: October 2015

Puerarin, an isoflavone derived from Kudzu roots, has been widely used for treatment of cardiovascular and cerebral vascular diseases in China and other Asian countries. However, the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. The present study investigated whether puerarin inhibited atherogenic lipid oxLDL-mediated macrophage activation and foam cell formation in human THP1 macrophage. Treatment with oxLDL significantly increased the mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factorα(TNFα, 160%) and interleukin (IL) 1β(13 fold) accompanied by upregulation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4, 165%) and the ratio of phospho-IκBα/IκBαin THP1 macrophage. Puerarin dose-dependently prevented an increase in oxLDL-induced proinflammatory gene expression with downregulation of TLR4 and the ratio of phospho-IκBα/IκBα. Furthermore, puerarin prevented oxLDL-mediated lipid deposition and foam cell formation associated with downregulation of scavenger receptor CD36. Flow cytometry analysis showed that puerarin reduced the number of early apoptotic cells of macrophages induced by oxLDL. Our results show that puerarin has anti-inflammatory and antiatherogenic effects in vitro; the underlying mechanisms may involve the inhibition of TLR4/NFκB pathway and downregulation of CD36 expression. The results from the present study provide scientific evidence and may expand our armamentarium to use puerarin for prevention and treatment of cardiovascular and atherosclerotic diseases.
Pseudomonas aeruginosaExopolyphosphatase Is Also a Polyphosphate: ADP Phosphotransferase
Authors: Beassoni Paola R. , Gallarato Lucas A. , Boetsch Cristhian , Garrido Mónica N. , Lisa Angela T.
Published: October 2015

Pseudomonas aeruginosaexopolyphosphatase (paPpx; EC 3.6.1.11) catalyzes the hydrolysis of polyphosphates (polyP), producing polyPn−1plus inorganic phosphate(Pi). In a recent work we have shown thatpaPpx is involved in the pathogenesis ofP. aeruginosa. The present study was aimed at performing the biochemical characterization of this enzyme. We found some properties that were already described forE. coliPpx (ecPpx) but we also discovered new and original characteristics ofpaPpx: (i) the peptide that connects subdomains II and III is essential for enzyme activity; (ii)NH4+is an activator of the enzyme and may function at concentrations lower than those of K+; (iii) Zn2+is also an activator ofpaPpx and may substitute Mg2+in the catalytic site; and (iv)paPpx also has phosphotransferase activity, dependent on Mg2+and capable of producing ATP regardless of the presence or absence of K+orNH4+ions. In addition, we detected that the active site responsible for the phosphatase activity is also responsible for the phosphotransferase activity. Through the combination of molecular modeling and docking techniques, we propose a model of thepaPpx N-terminal domain in complex with a polyP chain of 7 residues long and a molecule of ADP to explain the phosphotransferase activity.
Explicit Wave Solutions and Qualitative Analysis of the (1 + 2)-Dimensional Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation with Dual-Power Law Nonlinearity
Authors: Meng Qing , He Bin , Li Zhenyang
Published: October 2015

The (1 + 2)-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation with dual-power law nonlinearity is studied using the factorization technique, bifurcation theory of dynamical system, and phase portraits analysis. From a dynamic point of view, the existence of smooth solitary wave, and kink and antikink waves is proved and all possible explicit parametric representations of these waves are presented.
Pulmonary Protection Strategies in Cardiac Surgery: Are We Making Any Progress?
Authors: Al Jaaly Emad , Zakkar Mustafa , Fiorentino Francesca , Angelini Gianni D.
Published: October 2015

Pulmonary dysfunction is a common complication of cardiac surgery. The mechanisms involved in the development of pulmonary dysfunction are multifactorial and can be related to the activation of inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways. Clinical manifestation varies from mild atelectasis to severe respiratory failure. Managing pulmonary dysfunction postcardiac surgery is a multistep process that starts before surgery and continues during both the operative and postoperative phases. Different pulmonary protection strategies have evolved over the years; however, the wide acceptance and clinical application of such techniques remain hindered by the poor level of evidence or the sample size of the studies. A better understanding of available modalities and/or combinations can result in the development of customised strategies for the different cohorts of patients with the potential to hence maximise patients and institutes benefits.
Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Treating Sciatica: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Qin Zongshi , Liu Xiaoxu , Wu Jiani , Zhai Yanbing , Liu Zhishun
Published: October 2015

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis, which aimed to assess the current evidence on the effects and safety of acupuncture for treating sciatica. In this review, a total of 11 randomized controlled trials were included. As a result, we found that the use of acupuncture may be more effective than drugs and may enhance the effect of drugs for patients with sciatica, but because of the insufficient number of relevant and rigorous studies, the evidence is limited. Future trials using rigorous methodology, appropriate comparisons, and clinically relevant outcomes should be conducted.
HbSC Disease and Spontaneous Epidural Hematoma with Kernohan’s Notch Phenomena
Authors: Yogarajah Meera , Agu Chidozie Charles , Sivasambu Bhradeev , Mittler Mark A.
Published: October 2015

Spontaneous (nontraumatic) acute epidural hematoma is a rare and poorly understood complication of sickle cell disease. A 19-year-old African American male with hemoglobin SC disease (HbSC) presented with generalized body aches and was managed for acute painful crisis. During his hospital stay he developed rapid deterioration of his mental status and computed topography revealed a spontaneous massive epidural hematoma with mass effect and midline shift with Kernohan’s notch phenomena for which urgent craniotomy and evacuation was done. We report the first case of HbSC disease associated with catastrophic epidural hematoma progressing to transtentorial herniation and Kernohan’s notch phenomena within few hours with rapid clinical deterioration. The etiopathogenesis and the rare presentation are discussed in detail in this case report.
Mechanistic Contributions of Biological Cofactors in Islet Amyloid Polypeptide Amyloidogenesis
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Trang , Andraka Nagore , De Carufel Carole Anne , Bourgault Steve
Published: October 2015

Type II diabetes mellitus is associated with the deposition of fibrillar aggregates in pancreatic islets. The major protein component of islet amyloids is the glucomodulatory hormone islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP). Islet amyloid fibrils are virtually always associated with several biomolecules, including apolipoprotein E, metals, glycosaminoglycans, and various lipids. IAPP amyloidogenesis has been originally perceived as a self-assembly homogeneous process in which the inherent aggregation propensity of the peptide and its local concentration constitute the major driving forces to fibrillization. However, over the last two decades, numerous studies have shown a prominent role of amyloid cofactors in IAPP fibrillogenesis associated with the etiology of type II diabetes. It is increasingly evident that the biochemical microenvironment in which IAPP amyloid formation occurs and the interactions of the polypeptide with various biomolecules not only modulate the rate and extent of aggregation, but could also remodel the amyloidogenesis process as well as the structure, toxicity, and stability of the resulting fibrils.
Preparation, Modification, and Application of Hollow Gold Nanospheres
Authors: Ren Qiong-Qiong , Bai Ling-Yu , Zhang Xiao-Shuai , Ma Zhi-Ya , Liu Bo , Zhao Yuan-Di , Cao Yuan-Cheng
Published: October 2015

Hollow gold nanospheres (HGNs) have great potential applications in biological sensing, biomedical imaging, photothermal therapy, and drug delivery due to their unique localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) feature, easy modification, good biocompatibility, and excellent photothermal conversion properties. In this review, the latest developments of HGNs in biosensing, bioimaging, photothermal therapy, and drug delivery are summarized, the synthesis methods, surface modification and bioconjugation of HGNs are also covered in this summary.
Safety and Privacy Considerations for Mobile Application Design in Digital Healthcare
Authors: Volk Mojca , Sterle Janez , Sedlar Urban
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a case study on security and privacy implications on the design of a mobile application in digital health, the DeStress Assistant (DeSA) app, which utilizes sensing technologies and capabilities of the Internet of Things (IoT). An analysis of the applicable legislative framework is provided and selected challenges encountered during the app design are discussed, which are related with the practical implications of provisions of the international and national legislation for software applications in general as well as medical devices and handling of sensitive data in particular. We provide insights into design choices, including different possible scenarios for classification of a mobile app as a medical device and the pertaining legal risks the app developer is faced with as a consequence of possible legal obligations, and different possibilities of specifying the intended use. Also, we propose two designs of a mechanism that enables secure sharing of the patient’s health-related observations from the DeSA app with a medical professional within a treatment context. The first mechanism provides secure submission of health-related observations into a hospital information system, whereas the second mechanism enables secure short-term sharing of observations without storage.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Rising Concerns over Their Application in Treatment of Type One Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Hashemian Seyed Jafar , Kouhnavard Marjan , Nasli-Esfahani Ensieh
Published: October 2015

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disorder that leads to beta cell destruction and lowered insulin production. In recent years, stem cell therapies have opened up new horizons to treatment of diabetes mellitus. Among all kinds of stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to be an interesting therapeutic option based on their immunomodulatory properties and differentiation potentials confirmed in various experimental and clinical trial studies. In this review, we discuss MSCs differential potentials in differentiation into insulin-producing cells (IPCs) from various sources and also have an overview on currently understood mechanisms through which MSCs exhibit their immunomodulatory effects. Other important issues that are provided in this review, due to their importance in the field of cell therapy, are genetic manipulations (as a new biotechnological method), routes of transplantation, combination of MSCs with other cell types, frequency of transplantation, and special considerations regarding diabetic patients’ autologous MSCs transplantation. At the end, utilization of biomaterials either as encapsulation tools or as scaffolds to prevent immune rejection, preparation of tridimensional vascularized microenvironment, and completed or ongoing clinical trials using MSCs are discussed. Despite all unresolved concerns about clinical applications of MSCs, this group of stem cells still remains a promising therapeutic modality for treatment of diabetes.
Incidence of Gastric Cancer in Marrakech and Casablanca, Morocco
Authors: Smith Brittney L. , Khouchani Mouna , Karkouri Mehdi , Lazenby Audrey J. , Watkins Katherine , Tahri Ali , Benider Abdel-Latif , Rajaram Shireen , Soliman Amr S.
Published: October 2015

Gastric cancer is the fifth most common cancer globally with over 70% of new cases occurring in developing countries. In Morocco, oncologists in Marrakech suspected higher frequency of gastric cancer compared to Casablanca, a city 150 kilometers away. This study calculated age-specific, sex-specific, and total incidence rates of gastric cancer in Marrakech and was compared to the Casablanca population-based cancer registry. Using medical records from Center Hospital University Mohammad VI and reports from 4 main private pathology laboratories in Marrakech, we identified 774 patients for the period 2008–2012. Comparison of rates showed higher age-specific incidence in Marrakech in nearly all age groups for both genders. A higher total incidence in Marrakech than in Casablanca was found with rates of 5.50 and 3.23 per 100,000, respectively. Incidence was significantly higher among males in Marrakech than males in Casablanca (7.19 and 3.91 per 100,000, resp.) and females in Marrakech compared to females in Casablanca (3.87 and 2.58 per 100,000, resp.). Future studies should address possible underestimation of gastric cancer in Marrakech, estimate incidence in other regions of Morocco, and investigate possible risk factors to explain the difference in rates.
Portomesenteric Vein Thrombosis, Bowel Gangrene, and Bilateral Pulmonary Artery Embolism Two Weeks after Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Darcy David G. , Charafeddine Ali H. , Choi Jenny , Camacho Diego
Published: October 2015

Sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass surgery are popular and effective options for weight loss surgery. Portomesenteric vein thrombosis (PMVT) is a documented but rare complication of bariatric surgery. Proper surgical technique, careful postoperative prophylaxis, and early mobilization are essential to prevent this event. The diagnosis of PMVT in the postoperative period requires a high index of suspicion and early directed intervention to prevent a possibly fatal outcome. We present a case of PMVT complicated by small bowel ischemia resulting in gangrene that necessitated resection.
Photocatalytical Antibacterial Activity of Mixed-Phase TiO2Nanocomposite Thin Films againstAggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans
Authors: Yeniyol Sinem , Mutlu Ilven , He Zhiming , Yüksel Behiye , Boylan Robert Joseph , Ürgen Mustafa , Karabuda Zihni Cüneyt , Basegmez Cansu , Ricci John Lawrence
Published: October 2015

Mixed-phaseTiO2nanocomposite thin films consisting of anatase and rutile prepared on commercially pure Ti sheets via the electrochemical anodization and annealing treatments were investigated in terms of their photocatalytic activity for antibacterial use around dental implants. The resulting films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The topology was assessed by White Light Optical Profiling (WLOP) in the Vertical Scanning Interferometer (VSI) mode. Representative height descriptive parameters of roughnessRaandRzwere calculated. The photocatalytic activity of the resultingTiO2films was evaluated by the photodegradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) dye solution. The antibacterial ability of the photocatalyst was examined by  Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitanssuspensions in a colony-forming assay. XRD showed that anatase/rutile mixed-phaseTiO2thin films were predominantly in anatase and rutile that were 54.6 wt% and 41.9 wt%, respectively. Craters (2–5 µm) and protruding hills (10–50 µm) on Ti substrates were produced after electrochemical anodization with higherRaandRzsurface roughness values. Anatase/rutile mixed-phaseTiO2thin films showed 26% photocatalytic decolorization toward RhB dye solution. The number of colonizing bacteria on anatase/rutile mixed-phaseTiO2thin films was decreased significantlyin vitro. The photocatalyst was effective againstA. actinomycetemcomitanscolonization.
Understanding Experimental LCMV Infection of Mice: The Role of Mathematical Models
Authors: Bocharov Gennady , Argilaguet Jordi , Meyerhans Andreas
Published: October 2015

Virus infections represent complex biological systems governed by multiple-level regulatory processes of virus replication and host immune responses. Understanding of the infection means an ability to predict the systems behaviour under various conditions. Such predictions can only rely upon quantitative mathematical models. The model formulations should be tightly linked to a fundamental step called “coordinatization” (Hermann Weyl), that is, the definition of observables, parameters, and structures that enable the link with a biological phenotype. In this review, we analyse the mathematical modelling approaches to LCMV infection in mice that resulted in quantification of some fundamental parameters of the CTL-mediated virus control including the rates of T cell turnover, infected target cell elimination, and precursor frequencies. We show how the modelling approaches can be implemented to address diverse aspects of immune system functioning under normal conditions and in response to LCMV and, importantly, make quantitative predictions of the outcomes of immune system perturbations. This may highlight the notion that data-driven applications of meaningful mathematical models in infection biology remain a challenge.
Minimally Invasive Surgical Approach to Complicated Recurrent Pilonidal Sinus
Authors: Gul Vahit Onur , Destek Sebahattin , Ozer Serhat , Etkin Ergin , Ahioglu Serkan , Ince Mehmet , Cimin Vedat , Sen Deniz , Erbil Yesim
Published: October 2015

Pilonidal sinus is considered as a simple and frequently occurring disease localized at the sacrococcygeal area. However, at the intergluteal region, it can often turn into a chronic and complicated disease. In some cases, it can fistulize up to the gluteal region and appear at the secondary orifices. Minimally invasive surgical techniques are becoming widespread in recent years due to the increased experience and development of new instruments. Limited excision of the pilonidal sinus tract can be a better treatment option compared with large excisions in terms of recovery time and patient’s comfort. This case study reports the single-phase surgical treatment of complicated and recurrent pilonidal sinus localized at the gluteal area, with minimal tissue loss and inflammation.
Formulae for the Generalized Drazin Inverse of a Block Matrix in Banach Algebras
Authors: Liu Xiaoji , Qin Xiaolan
Published: October 2015

We present some new representations for the generalized Drazin inverse of a block matrix in a Banach algebra under conditions weaker than those used in resent papers on the subject.
A Young Man Presenting with Pleuritic Chest Pain and Fever after Electrophysiological Study and Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Placement: Diagnostic Difficulties and Value of Bedside Thoracic Sonography
Authors: Faraone Antonio , Fortini Alberto
Published: October 2015

We describe the case of a 23-year-old man presenting with recurrent pleuritic chest pain and prolonged fever after electrophysiology testing and placement of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator because of a suspected arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia. The clinical suspicion was initially directed toward pneumonia with pleural effusion and later toward an infection of the cardiac device complicated by septic pulmonary embolism. The definitive diagnosis of pulmonary embolism and infarction was suggested by a point-of-care thoracic sonography, performed at the bedside by a clinician caring for the patient, and then confirmed by contrast enhanced computed tomography, which also showed thrombosis of the left iliofemoral vein, site of percutaneous puncture for cardiac catheterization. Prolonged fever was attributable to a concomitant Epstein-Barr virus primary infection that acted as confounding factor. The present report confirms the value of bedside thoracic sonography in the diagnostic evaluation of patients with nonspecific respiratory symptoms.
Bacterial Spectrum and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns of Ocular Infection: Differences between External and Intraocular Diseases
Authors: Wang Nan , Yang Qian , Tan Yiwei , Lin Liping , Huang Qiang , Wu Kaili
Published: October 2015

This study aimed to compare the differences of microbial spectrum and antibiotic resistance patterns between external and intraocular bacterial infections in an eye hospital in South China. A total of 737 bacteria isolates from suspected ocular infections were included in this retrospective study covering the period 2010–2013. The organisms cultured from the ocular surface (cornea, conjunctiva) accounted for the majority of the isolates (82.77%,n= 610), followed by the intraocular (aqueous humor, vitreous fluid), which accounted for 17.23% (n= 127). The top three species accounting for the external ocular infections wereS. epidermidis(35.25%),P. aeruginosa(8.03%), andS. simulans(4.43%). The top three species for the intraocular infections wereS. epidermidis(14.96%),S. hominis(8.66%), andB. subtilis(7.87%). The bacteria from the external ocular surface were more sensitive to neomycin, while those from the intraocular specimens were more sensitive to levofloxacin (P< 0.01). Multidrug resistance was found in 89 bacteria (12.08%), including isolates from both external (13.28%) and intraocular samples (6.30%). The results of this study indicate that the bacteria spectrum of external and intraocular infections is variable in the setting. A high percentage of bacterial organisms were found to be primarily susceptible to neomycin for external infection and levofloxacin for intraocular infection.
Performance of Variable Negative Stiffness MRE Vibration Isolation System
Authors: Li Run-pu , Du Cheng-bin , Guo Fei , Yu Guo-jun , Lin Xiao-guo
Published: October 2015

Magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) vibration isolation devices can improve a system’s vibration response via adjustable stiffness and damping under different magnetic fields. Combined with negative stiffness design, these MRE devices can reduce a system’s stiffness and improve the vibration control effect significantly. This paper develops a variable negative stiffness MRE isolation device by combining an improved separable iron core with laminated MREs. The relationship between the negative stiffness and the performance of the device is obtained by mathematical transformation. Its vibration response under simple harmonic excitation at small amplitude and the impact of the volume fraction of soft magnetic particles on the isolation system are also analyzed. The results show that the negative stiffness produced by the magnetic force is a major factor affecting the capacity of the isolation system. Compared to devices of the same size, the isolation system equipped with low-particle volume fraction MREs demonstrates better performance.
Original and Mirror Face Images and Minimum Squared Error Classification for Visible Light Face Recognition
Authors: Wang Rong
Published: October 2015

In real‐world applications, the image of faces varies with illumination, facial expression, and poses. It seems that more training samples are able to reveal possible images of the faces. Though minimum squared error classification (MSEC) is a widely used method, its applications on face recognition usually suffer from the problem of a limited number of training samples. In this paper, we improve MSEC by using the mirror faces as virtual training samples. We obtained the mirror faces generated from original training samples and put these two kinds of samples into a new set. The face recognition experiments show that our method does obtain high accuracy performance in classification.
Shear Strength of Unreinforced Masonry Wall Retrofitted with Fiber Reinforced Polymer and Hybrid Sheet
Authors: Choi Yun-Cheul , Choi Hyun-Ki , Lee Dongkeun , Choi Chang Sik
Published: October 2015

Unreinforced masonry (URM) structures represent a significant portion of existing historical structures around the world. Recent earthquakes have shown the need for seismic retrofitting for URM structures. Various types of strengthening methods have been used for URM structures. In particular, a strengthening technique using externally bonded (EB) fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites has attracted engineers since EB FRP materials effectively enhance the shear strength of URM walls with negligible change to cross-sectional area and weight of the walls. Research has been extensively conducted to determine characteristics of URM walls strengthened with EB FRP materials. However, it is still difficult to determine an appropriate retrofitting level due to the complexity of mechanical behavior of strengthened URM walls. In this study, in-plane behavior under lateral loading was, therefore, investigated on a full-scale nonstrengthened URM wall and URM walls retrofitted with two different FRP materials: carbon (CFRP) and hybrid (HFRP) sheets. The test results indicated that both FRP composites were effective in increasing shear strength in comparison with the control specimen. However, better performance was obtained with HFRP compared to CFRP. In addition, an equation for estimating effective strain was proposed, and the theoretical results were in good agreement with the experimental ones.
Prediction of Flexural Capacity of RC Beams Strengthened in Flexure with FRP Fabric and Cementitious Matrix
Authors: Jung Kyusan , Hong Kinam , Han Sanghoon , Park Jaekyu , Kim Jaehyun
Published: October 2015

This paper presents both experimental and analytical research results for predicting the flexural capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened in flexure with fabric reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM). In order to assess the efficiency of the FRCM-strengthening method, six beams were strengthened in flexure with FRCM composite having different amounts and layers of FRP fabric and were tested under four-point loading. From test results, it was confirmed that the slippage between the FRP fabric and matrix occurs at a high strain level, and all of the FRCM-strengthened beams failed by the debonding of the FRCM. Additionally, a new bond strength model for FRCM considering the slippage between fabric and matrix was proposed, using a test database to predict the strengthening performance of the FRCM composite. The prediction of the proposed bond strength model agreed well with the debonding loads of the test database.
Antiamnesic Effect ofActinidia argutaExtract Intake in a Mouse Model of TMT-Induced Learning and Memory Dysfunction
Authors: Ha Jeong Su , Jin Dong Eun , Park Seon Kyeong , Park Chang Hyeon , Seung Tae Wan , Bae Dong-Won , Kim Dae-Ok , Heo Ho Jin
Published: October 2015

The antiamnesic effects of ethyl acetate fraction fromActinidia arguta(EFAA) on trimethyltin- (TMT-) induced memory impairment were investigated to find the possibility of functional food substances. EFAA showed a potent AChE inhibitory effect (IC50= 53 μg/mL) and efficient neuroprotection against H2O2-induced oxidative stress. The administration of EFAA significantly decreased TMT-induced cognitive deficit in Y-maze, passive avoidance, and Morris water maze (MWM) tests. After the behavioral tests, the antioxidant activities were confirmed using mice brain tissues. EFAA not only showed the inhibition of AChE activity and the decline of malondialdehyde (MDA) level as a sign of lipid peroxidation but also presented the increase of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) level and the decrease of the oxidized glutathione (GSSG)/total glutathione (GSH + GSSG) ratio. Finally, the phenolics in EFAA were identified using liquid chromatography coupled with hybrid triple quadrupole-linear ion trap mass spectrometry, and four main phenolics, such as quinic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeoyl hexose, and quercetin-3-glucoside, were identified. These results suggest that EFAA containing physiological phenolics might enhance drug-induced amnesia through AChE inhibition and neuroprotection.
Selection of an Appropriate Mechanized Mining Technical Process for Thin Coal Seam Mining
Authors: Wang Chen , Tu Shihao
Published: October 2015

Mechanized mining technical process (MMTP) related to the control method of the shearer is a vital process in thin coal seam mining operations. An appropriate MMTP is closely related to safety, productivity, labour intensity, and efficiency. Hence, the evaluation of alternative MMTP is an important part of the mining design. Several parameters should be considered in MMTP evaluation, so the evaluation is complex and must be compliant with a set of criteria. In this paper, two multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluation (PROMETHEE), were adopted for this evaluation. Then, the most appropriate MMTP for a thin coal seam working face was selected in China.
Preclinical Evidence That Trametinib Enhances the Response to Antiangiogenic Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Bridgeman Victoria L. , Wan Elaine , Foo Shane , Nathan Mark R. , Welti Jonathan C. , Frentzas Sophia , Vermeulen Peter B. , Preece Natasha , Springer Caroline J. , Powles Thomas , Nathan Paul D. , Larkin James , Gore Martin , Vasudev Naveen S. , Reynolds Andrew R.
Published: October 2015

Sunitinib and pazopanib are antiangiogenic tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) used to treat metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, the ability of these drugs to extend progression-free and overall survival in this patient population is limited by drug resistance. It is possible that treatment outcomes in RCC patients could be improved by rationally combining TKIs with other agents. Here, we address whether inhibition of the Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK1/2 pathway is a rational means to improve the response to TKIs in RCC. Using a xenograft model of RCC, we found that tumors that are resistant to sunitinib have a significantly increased angiogenic response compared with tumors that are sensitive to sunitinib in vivo. We also observed significantly increased levels of phosphorylated ERK1/2 in the vasculature of resistant tumors, when compared with sensitive tumors. These data suggested that the Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK1/2 pathway, an important driver of angiogenesis in endothelial cells, remains active in the vasculature of TKI-resistant tumors. Using an in vitro angiogenesis assay, we identified that the MEK inhibitor (MEKI) trametinib has potent antiangiogenic activity. We then show that, when trametinib is combined with a TKI in vivo, more effective suppression of tumor growth and tumor angiogenesis is achieved than when either drug is utilized alone. In conclusion, we provide preclinical evidence that combining a TKI, such as sunitinib or pazopanib, with a MEKI, such as trametinib, is a rational and efficacious treatment regimen for RCC. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(1); 172–83. ©2015 AACR.
Leptin and Adiponectin Modulate the Self-renewal of Normal Human Breast Epithelial Stem Cells
Authors: Esper Raymond M. , Dame Michael , McClintock Shannon , Holt Peter R. , Dannenberg Andrew J. , Wicha Max S. , Brenner Dean E.
Published: October 2015

Multiple mechanisms are likely to account for the link between obesity and increased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. Two adipokines, leptin and adiponectin, are of particular interest due to their opposing biologic functions and associations with breast cancer risk. In the current study, we investigated the effects of leptin and adiponectin on normal breast epithelial stem cells. Levels of leptin in human adipose explant–derived conditioned media positively correlated with the size of the normal breast stem cell pool. In contrast, an inverse relationship was found for adiponectin. Moreover, a strong linear relationship was observed between the leptin/adiponectin ratio in adipose conditioned media and breast stem cell self-renewal. Consistent with these findings, exogenous leptin stimulated whereas adiponectin suppressed breast stem cell self-renewal. In addition to local in-breast effects, circulating factors, including leptin and adiponectin, may contribute to the link between obesity and breast cancer. Increased levels of leptin and reduced amounts of adiponectin were found in serum from obese compared with age-matched lean postmenopausal women. Interestingly, serum from obese women increased stem cell self-renewal by 30% compared with only 7% for lean control serum. Taken together, these data suggest a plausible explanation for the obesity-driven increase in postmenopausal breast cancer risk. Leptin and adiponectin may function as both endocrine and paracrine/juxtacrine factors to modulate the size of the normal stem cell pool. Interventions that disrupt this axis and thereby normalize breast stem cell self-renewal could reduce the risk of breast cancer. Cancer Prev Res; 8(12); 1174–83. ©2015 AACR.
Fenofibrate Reverses Palmitate Induced Impairment in Glucose Uptake in Skeletal Muscle Cells by Preventing Cytosolic Ceramide Accumulation
Authors: Bhattacharjee Sudarshan , Das Nabanita , Mandala Ashok , Mukhopadhyay Satinath , Roy Sib Sankar
Published: October 2015

Backgrounds/Aims: The lipid induced insulin resistance is a major pathophysiologic mechanism underlying glucose intolerance of varying severity. PPARα-agonists are proven as effective hypolipidemic agents. The aim of this study was to see if impaired glucose uptake in palmitate treated myotubes is reversed by fenofibrate. Methods: Palmitate-treated myotubes were used as a model for insulin resistance, impaired glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation and ceramide synthesis. mRNA levels of CPT1 and CPT2 were determined by PCR array and Q-PCR. Results: The incubation of myotubes with 750 uM palmitate not only reduced glucose uptake but also impaired fatty acid oxidation and cytosolic ceramide accumulation. Palmitate upregulated CPT1b expression in L6 myotubes, while CPT2 expression level remained unchanged. The altered stoichiometric ratio between the two CPT isoforms led to reduced fatty acid oxidation (FAO), ceramide accumulation and impaired glucose uptake, whereas administration of 200 µM fenofibrate signifcantly reversed the above abnormalities by increasing CPT2 mRNA levels and restoring CPT1b to CPT2 ratio. Conclusion: Palmitate-induced alteration in the stoichiometric ratio of mitochondrial CPT isoforms leads to incomplete FAO and enhanced cytosolic ceramide accumulation that lead to insulin resistance. Fenofibrate ameliorated insulin resistance by restoring the altered stoichiometry by upregulating CPT2 and preventing, cytoplasmic ceramide accumulation.