bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicted 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease among Canadian adults using modified Framingham Risk Score in association with dietary intake
Authors: Setayeshgar Solmaz , Whiting Susan J. , Pahwa Punam , Vatanparast Hassanali
Published: July 2015

Initial risk assessment to estimate 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is completed by Framingham Risk Score (FRS). In 2012 2 modifications were added to FRS by the Canadian Cardiovascular Society: FRS is doubled in subjects aged 30–59 years who have CVD present in a first-degree relative before 55 years of age for men and 65 years of age for women; and cardiovascular age is calculated for each individual. Our aim was to implement these modifications and evaluate differences compared with traditional FRS. Further, we evaluated the association between dietary intake and 10-year risk. The Canadian Health Measures Survey data cycle 1 was used among participants aged 30–74 years (n = 2730). Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were conducted using STATA SE 11. Using modified FRS for predicting 10-year risk of CVD significantly increased the estimated risk compared with the traditional approach, 8.66% ± 0.35% versus 6.06% ± 0.18%, respectively. Greater impact was observed with the “cardiovascular age” modification in men versus women. The distribution of Canadians in low- (<10%) and high-risk (≥20%) categories of CVD show a significant difference between modified and traditional FRS: 67.4% versus 79.6% (low risk) and 13.7% versus 4.5% (high risk), respectively. The odds of having risk ≥10% was significantly greater in low-educated, abdominally obese individuals or those with lower consumption of breakfast cereal and fruit and vegetable and greater potato and potato products consumption. In conclusion, the traditional FRS method significantly underestimates CVD risk in Canadians; thus, applying modified FRS is beneficial for screening. Additionally, fibre consumption from fruit and vegetable or breakfast cereals might be beneficial in reducing CVD risks.
Growth and photosynthesis responses of two co-occurring marsh grasses to inundation and varied nutrients
Authors: Watson Elizabeth Burke , Andrews Holly M. , Fischer Amy , Cencer Morgan , Coiro Laura , Kelley Sean , Wigand Cathleen
Published: July 2015

For tidal marshes of the US Northeast, the late twentieth century decline of Spartina patens (Aiton) Muhl. has been attributed to increased flooding associated with accelerated sea level rise and nitrogen over-enrichment from cultural eutrophication. The objective of this study was to examine the impacts of inundation and nutrient availability on growth, photosynthesis, and interactions of S. patens and Distichlis spicata (L.) Greene, which co-occur and are common marsh species. Plants were grown in a factorial greenhouse experiment, where flow-through seawater was used to simulate semidiurnal tides. Field surveys were additionally conducted to relate plant distributions to environmental conditions. For S. patens grown in monoculture, nutrient additions did not enhance growth for the high inundation treatment. In addition, the combination of high nutrient availability and high inundation adversely affected S. patens tiller density, photosynthetic efficiency, and leaf CO2 uptake. For D. spicata, nutrient additions enhanced growth for both inundation treatments with respect to aboveground biomass and tiller density. For species pairings, S. patens expanded relative to D. spicata under low inundation, low nutrient availability conditions, but declined relative to D. spicata under daily inundation in combination with nutrient amendments. These findings were additionally supported by field data, which indicated that D. spicata was more common than S. patens where nutrient availability was high. These results suggest that S. patens persistence is favored by low nutrient inputs and well-drained conditions, and supports the interpretation that this species is vulnerable to loss where high nutrient loads coincide with accelerated sea level rise.
On the Interrelation of Two Linear NonStationary Problems with Multiple Evaders
Authors: Petrov N. N. , Shchelchkov K. A.
Published: July 2015

A linear nonstationary pursuit problem in which a group of pursuers and a group of evaders are involved is considered under the condition that the group of pursuers includes participants whose admissible controls set coincides with that of the evaders and participants whose admissible controls sets belong to interior of admissible controls set of the evaders. The aim of the group of pursuers is to capture all the evaders. The aim of the group of evaders is to prevent the capture, that is, to allow at least one of the evaders to avoid the rendezvous. It is shown that, if in the game in which all the participants have equal capabilities at least one of the evaders avoids the rendezvous on an infinite time interval, then as a result of the addition of any number of pursuers with less capabilities, at least one of the evaders will avoid the rendezvous on any finite time interval.
THE "EVERYTHING'S DIFFERENT, EVERY TIME" INNOVATION MANAGEMENT PROBLEM: A PROMISING MODEL DEVELOPMENT
Authors: BROPHEY GLENN , BAREGHEH ANAHITA , HEMSWORTH DAVID , WACHOWIAK MARK , HAY DEAN , BEN DHAOU SOUMAYA
Published: July 2015

This study reports on the testing of a promising approach for aiding decision-making during innovation. By focusing on the effects of risk/action dyads on success (the Risk/Action/Success (R/A/S) framework), and because perceived risks do appear repeatedly even though they emanate from differing contexts, the model offers an opportunity to learn from what worked best before. Using Artificial Neural Networks, this novel approach allows for generalisation and applicability of specific innovation management actions that are context specific. For academics, the proposed approach contributes to the risk-management literature by proposing a new paradigm for understanding and analysing innovation processes and identification of the most frequently occurring risks as seen by managers directly involved in continuous innovation. In addition, the model offers the capacity to use quantitative techniques to model the overlapping risks and actions during innovation-related decision-making. For practitioners, it can provide specific recommendations in the form of success-sorted lists of actions taken by other innovation managers that faced similar risks. This paper presents the theoretical and practical rationales underpinning this R/A/S framework and reports on the viability of this approach using pilot data.
Peristaltic flow of Williamson fluid in a convected walls channel with Soret and Dufour effects
Authors: Hayat T. , Batool Naheed , Yasmin H. , Alsaedi A. , Ayub M.
Published: July 2015

Peristaltic flow of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Williamson fluid in a symmetric channel is addressed. Modeling is given with Soret and Dufour effects. Channel walls have compliant properties. Analysis has been carried out through long wavelength and low Reynolds number approach. The obtained series solutions for small Weissenberg number are developed. Impact of variables reflecting the salient features of wall properties, Biot numbers and Soret and Dufour on the velocity, temperature and concentration has been point out. Trapping phenomenon is also analyzed.
How Inhibitory Circuits in the Thalamus Serve Vision
Authors: Hirsch Judith A. , Wang Xin , Sommer Friedrich T. , Martinez Luis M.
Published: July 2015

Inhibitory neurons dominate the intrinsic circuits in the visual thalamus. Interneurons in the lateral geniculate nucleus innervate relay cells and each other densely to provide powerful inhibition. The visual sector of the overlying thalamic reticular nucleus receives input from relay cells and supplies feedback inhibition to them in return. Together, these two inhibitory circuits influence all information transmitted from the retina to the primary visual cortex. By contrast, relay cells make few local connections. This review explores the role of thalamic inhibition from the dual perspectives of feature detection and information theory. For example, we describe how inhibition sharpens tuning for spatial and temporal features of the stimulus and how it might enhance image perception. We also discuss how inhibitory circuits help to reduce redundancy in signals sent downstream and, at the same time, are adapted to maximize the amount of information conveyed to the cortex.
An Integrative Model of the Maturation of Cognitive Control
Authors: Luna Beatriz , Marek Scott , Larsen Bart , Tervo-Clemmens Brenden , Chahal Rajpreet
Published: July 2015

Brains systems undergo unique and specific dynamic changes at the cellular, circuit, and systems level that underlie the transition to adult-level cognitive control. We integrate literature from these different levels of analyses to propose a novel model of the brain basis of the development of cognitive control. The ability to consistently exert cognitive control improves into adulthood as the flexible integration of component processes, including inhibitory control, performance monitoring, and working memory, increases. Unique maturational changes in brain structure, supported by interactions between dopaminergic and GABAergic systems, contribute to enhanced network synchronization and an improved signal-to-noise ratio. In turn, these factors facilitate the specialization and strengthening of connectivity in networks supporting the transition to adult levels of cognitive control. This model provides a novel understanding of the adolescent period as an adaptive period of heightened experience-seeking necessary for the specialization of brain systems supporting cognitive control.
Glucagon sensitivity and clearance in type 1 diabetes: insights from in vivo and in silico experiments
Authors: Hinshaw Ling , Mallad Ashwini , Dalla Man Chiara , Basu Rita , Cobelli Claudio , Carter Rickey E. , Kudva Yogish C. , Basu Ananda
Published: July 2015

Glucagon use in artificial pancreas for type 1 diabetes (T1D) is being explored for prevention and rescue from hypoglycemia. However, the relationship between glucagon stimulation of endogenous glucose production (EGP) viz., hepatic glucagon sensitivity, and prevailing glucose concentrations has not been examined. To test the hypothesis that glucagon sensitivity is increased at hypoglycemia vs. euglycemia, we studied 29 subjects with T1D randomized to a hypoglycemia or euglycemia clamp. Each subject was studied at three glucagon doses at euglycemia or hypoglycemia, with EGP measured by isotope dilution technique. The peak EGP increments and the integrated EGP response increased with increasing glucagon dose during euglycemia and hypoglycemia. However, the difference in dose response based on glycemia was not significant despite higher catecholamine concentrations in the hypoglycemia group. Knowledge of glucagon's effects on EGP was used to develop an in silico glucagon action model. The model-derived output fitted the obtained data at both euglycemia and hypoglycemia for all glucagon doses tested. Glucagon clearance did not differ between glucagon doses studied in both groups. Therefore, the glucagon controller of a dual hormone control system may not need to adjust glucagon sensitivity, and hence glucagon dosing, based on glucose concentrations during euglycemia and hypoglycemia.
Physiology in Medicine: update on lifestyle determinants of postprandial triacylglycerolemia with emphasis on the Mediterranean lifestyle
Authors: Maraki Maria I. , Sidossis Labros S.
Published: July 2015

This review updates the effect of lifestyle on plasma triacylglycerols (TAG) in the postprandial state, commonly reported as postprandial lipemia (PPL), an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Numerous studies have shown that Mediterranean diet may reduce PPL. However, most of these studies were focused on the type of fat (i.e., monounsaturated fat from olive oil), and the other components of the Mediterranean lifestyle were neglected. Physical activity, an integral part of this lifestyle, is widely investigated on its own and shown to reduce PPL. In addition, preliminary results of studies examining other Mediterranean “ingredients”, such as legumes, fish, and herbs, showed additional benefits; however, data on the long-term effects are limited. More studies are needed to confirm short-term results and investigate the effects of the whole Mediterranean lifestyle on PPL and whether these effects mediate its protective role on CVD. Moreover, investigation of the effects in nonhealthy populations and the underlying mechanisms would be clinically helpful in individualizing the appropriate intervention.
Somatostatin receptor activation is involved in the control of daily torpor in a seasonal mammal
Authors: Scherbarth Frank , Diedrich Victoria , Dumbell Rebecca A. , Schmid Herbert A. , Steinlechner Stephan , Barrett Perry
Published: July 2015

Siberian hamsters ( Phodopus sungorus) show spontaneous daily torpor only after ∼2 mo in winter-like short photoperiods (SP). Although some SP-induced hormonal changes have been demonstrated to be necessary for the occurrence of seasonal torpor, the whole set of preconditions is still unknown. Recent findings provide evidence that the hypothalamic pituitary growth axis is involved in endocrine responses to SP exposure in the photoperiodic hamsters. To examine whether suppression of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) secretion affects the incidence of daily torpor, we used two somatostatin receptor agonists, pasireotide (SOM230) and octreotide, with different affinity profiles for receptor subtypes. Pasireotide strikingly increased the torpor frequency in male hamsters compared with sham-treated controls, and torpor duration was often increased, which in some cases exceeded 12 h. In contrast, administration of octreotide reduced the body weight of SP hamsters but had only a marginal effect on torpor frequency in males and no effect in females. Together with measured concentrations of circulating IGF-1, the present results strongly suggest that reduced activity of the GH/IGF-1 axis is not critical for stimulation of torpor expression but activation of specific somatostatin receptors is critical. This putative role for certain somatostatin receptor subtypes in torpor induction provides a promising new approach to unravel the endocrine mechanisms of torpor regulation.
Technical recommendations for the use of carotid duplex ultrasound for the assessment of extracranial blood flow
Authors: Thomas Kate N. , Lewis Nia C. S. , Hill Brigid G. , Ainslie Philip N.
Published: July 2015

Duplex ultrasound is an evolving technology that allows the assessment of volumetric blood flow in the carotid and vertebral arteries during a range of interventions along the spectrum of health and chronic disease. Duplex ultrasound can provide high-resolution diameter and velocity information in real-time and is noninvasive with minimal risks or contraindications. However, this ultrasound approach is a specialized technique requiring intensive training and stringent control of multiple complex settings; results are highly operator-dependent, and analysis approaches are inconsistent. Importantly, therefore, methodological differences can invalidate comparisons between different imaging modalities and studies; such methodological errors have potential to discredit study findings completely. The task of this review is to provide the first comprehensive, user-friendly technical guideline for the application of duplex ultrasound in measuring extracranial blood flow in human research. An update on recent developments in the use of edge-detection software for offline analysis is highlighted, and suggestions for future directions in this field are provided. These recommendations are presented in an attempt to standardize measurements across research groups and, hence, ultimately to improve the accuracy and reproducibility of measuring extracranial blood flow both within subjects and between groups.
Generalization and transfer of contextual cues in motor learning
Authors: Sarwary A. M. E. , Stegeman D. F. , Selen L. P. J. , Medendorp W. P.
Published: July 2015

We continuously adapt our movements in daily life, forming new internal models whenever necessary and updating existing ones. Recent work has suggested that this flexibility is enabled via sensorimotor cues, serving to access the correct internal model whenever necessary and keeping new models apart from previous ones. While research to date has mainly focused on identifying the nature of such cue representations, here we investigated whether and how these cue representations generalize, interfere, and transfer within and across effector systems. Subjects were trained to make two-stage reaching movements: a premovement that served as a cue, followed by a targeted movement that was perturbed by one of two opposite curl force fields. The direction of the premovement was uniquely coupled to the direction of the ensuing force field, enabling simultaneous learning of the two respective internal models. After training, generalization of the two premovement cues' representations was tested at untrained premovement directions, within both the trained and untrained hand. We show that the individual premovement representations generalize in a Gaussian-like pattern around the trained premovement direction. When the force fields are of unequal strengths, the cue-dependent generalization skews toward the strongest field. Furthermore, generalization patterns transfer to the nontrained hand, in an extrinsic reference frame. We conclude that contextual cues do not serve as discrete switches between multiple internal models. Instead, their generalization suggests a weighted contribution of the associated internal models based on the angular separation from the trained cues to the net motor output.
Spatial variation of compound muscle action potentials across human gastrocnemius medialis
Authors: Vieira Taian M. , Botter Alberto , Minetto Marco A. , Hodson-Tole Emma F.
Published: July 2015

The massed action potential (M wave) elicited through nerve stimulation underpins a wide range of physiological and mechanical understanding of skeletal muscle structure and function. Although systematic approaches have evaluated the effect of different factors on M waves, the effect of the location and distribution of activated fibers within the muscle remains unknown. By detecting M waves from the medial gastrocnemius (MG) of 12 participants with a grid of 128 electrodes, we investigated whether different populations of muscle units have different spatial organization within MG. If populations of muscle units occupy discrete MG regions, current pulses of progressively greater intensities applied to the MG nerve branch would be expected to lead to local changes in M-wave amplitudes. Electrical pulses were therefore delivered at 2 pps, with the current pulse amplitude increased every 10 stimuli to elicit different degrees of muscle activation. The localization of MG response to increases in current intensity was determined from the spatial distribution of M-wave amplitude. Key results revealed that increases in M-wave amplitude were detected somewhat locally, by 10–50% of the 128 electrodes. Most importantly, the electrodes detecting greatest increases in M-wave amplitude were localized at different regions in the grid, with a tendency for greater stimulation intensities to elicit M waves in the more distal MG region. The presented results indicate that M waves recorded locally may not provide a representative MG response, with major implications for the estimation of, e.g., the maximal stimulation levels, the number of motor units, and the onset and normalization in H-reflex studies.
Locomotor adaptation is modulated by observing the actions of others
Authors: Patel Mitesh , Roberts R. Edward , Riyaz Mohammed U. , Ahmed Maroof , Buckwell David , Bunday Karen , Ahmad Hena , Kaski Diego , Arshad Qadeer , Bronstein Adolfo M.
Published: July 2015

Observing the motor actions of another person could facilitate compensatory motor behavior in the passive observer. Here we explored whether action observation alone can induce automatic locomotor adaptation in humans. To explore this possibility, we used the “broken escalator” paradigm. Conventionally this involves stepping upon a stationary sled after having previously experienced it actually moving (Moving trials). This history of motion produces a locomotor aftereffect when subsequently stepping onto a stationary sled. We found that viewing an actor perform the Moving trials was sufficient to generate a locomotor aftereffect in the observer, the size of which was significantly correlated with the size of the movement (postural sway) observed. Crucially, the effect is specific to watching the task being performed, as no motor adaptation occurs after simply viewing the sled move in isolation. These findings demonstrate that locomotor adaptation in humans can be driven purely by action observation, with the brain adapting motor plans in response to the size of the observed individual's motion. This mechanism may be mediated by a mirror neuron system that automatically adapts behavior to minimize movement errors and improve motor skills through social cues, although further neurophysiological studies are required to support this theory. These data suggest that merely observing the gait of another person in a challenging environment is sufficient to generate appropriate postural countermeasures, implying the existence of an automatic mechanism for adapting locomotor behavior.
A Framework for the Estimation and Validation of Energy Consumption in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Karagiannis Alexandros , Vouyioukas Demosthenes
Published: July 2015

Body sensor networks and implantable and ingestible medical devices energy efficiency is a substantial key factor in network lifetime and functionality. This work confronts the nodes’ energy problem by establishing a unified energy consumption framework comprised of theoretical model, energy simulator model, and electronic metering modules that can be attached to the nodes. A theoretical analysis, a simulation procedure, and the design and development of three prototype electronic metering modules are presented in this paper. We discuss the accuracy of the proposed techniques, towards a unified framework for the aprioriestimation of the energy consumption in commercial sensor nodes, taking into account the application functionality and the energy properties of the incorporated electronics. Moreover, body network nodes are considered for the application and the measurements of the proposed framework.
Developmentally Delayed Male with Mincer Blade Obstructing the Oesophagus for a Period of Time Suspected to Be 6 Months
Authors: Grønhøj Larsen Christian , Charabi Birgitte
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Sharp, retained foreign bodies in the oesophagus are associated with severe complications. Developmentally delayed patients are especially subject to foreign objects. We describe a 37-year-old, developmentally delayed male with a mincer blade obstructing the oesophagus. Six months prior to surgical intervention, the patient was hospitalized in a condition of sepsis and pneumonia where the thoracic X-ray reveals a foreign body in the proximal oesophagus. When rehospitalized 6 months later, a mincer blade of the type used in immersion blenders was surgically removed. During these 6 months the patient’s main symptoms were dysphagia, weight loss, and diarrhoea. When developmentally delayed patients present with dysphagia, we strongly encourage the awareness of the possible presence of foreign bodies. To our knowledge this is the first reported case of a mincer blade in the oesophagus.
Analysis of Complications in Postbariatric Abdominoplasty: Our
Experience
Authors: Grieco Michele , Grignaffini Eugenio , Simonacci Francesco , Raposio Edoardo
Published: July 2015

Abdominoplasty is one of the most popular body-contouring procedures. It is associated with a significant number of complications: the most common ones are seroma, hematoma, infection, wound-healing problems, and skin flap necrosis. From January 2012 to December 2014, 25 patients (18 women and 7 men) (mean age: 51 years) underwent abdominoplastic surgery at the Plastic Surgery Section, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Parma, Italy. All patients reported a weight loss between 15 kg and 47 kg. All of the of 25 patients were included in the study; minor and major complications were seen in 17 (68%) and 8 (32%) patients, respectively. The percentage of complications in our patients was as follows: 9 patients with seroma (36%); 4 patients with wound dehiscence with delayed wound healing (16%); 3 cases with hematoma (12%); 2 patients with postoperative bleeding (8%); 1 patient (4%) with an umbilical necrosis; 1 patient (4%) with a deep vein thrombosis; 3 patients with infected seroma (12%); and 2 patients with wound infection (8%). There were no cases of postoperative mortality. The aim of this study is to analyze our complications in postbariatric abdominoplasty.
Two Cases of Contact Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture Combined with a Posterolateral Tibial Plateau Fracture
Authors: Jiang Liangjun , Wu Haobo , Yan Shigui
Published: July 2015

Background.The combined occurrence of ACL rupture with a posterolateral tibial plateau fracture has not yet been reported. Two cases of such injuries have been treated in our department for the past three years.Findings.The two patients both suffered injuries from traffic accidents. The radiological examinations showed a ruptured ACL with fracture of the posterolateral tibial plateau. Reconstruction of the ACL was performed via a standard anatomical single bundle ACL reconstruction technique with autologous tendon by arthroscopy. A posterolateral tibia plateau approach was used to reduce and fix the fractured area with the aid of lag screws. After a one-year follow-up, the two patients recovered well and physical examinations showed full knee range of motion with no evidence of ACL instability.Conclusions.The cause of this type injury of ACL rupture with a posterolateral tibial plateau fracture was thought to be by a violent internal tibial rotation/anterior tibial translation without any valgus or varus knee force mechanism during the accident. Satisfactory clinical results were achieved with a standard anatomical single bundle ACL reconstruction by arthroscopy and ORIF for the posterolateral plateau fracture. Both patients reported excellent knee function and fracture healing.
XPS Depth Study on the Liquid Oxidation of Sn-Bi-Zn-X(Al/P) Alloy and the Effect of Al/P on the Film
Authors: Wang X. J. , Liu N. , Shi S. , Chen Y. X.
Published: July 2015

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to study the properties of liquid oxidation of Sn-Bi-Zn (SBZ) solder alloys and the effect of Al/P on the oxide film. The results showed that the oxidation film on SBZ surface was in high concentration of both oxygen and zinc. Adding trace amount of Al/P to SBZ alloys (SBZA/ABZP) decreased the ratio of O/M (M could be Sn, Bi, and Al/P) and changed the film compositions. Layers near the free surface of oxidation film mostly contained Zn2+and Al3+oxides for SBZA. From the half quantitative analysis result, the aluminum had a surface enrichment behavior in liquid solder, so did phosphorus and zinc. Therefore, the Al/P addition changed their stoichiometry such as the ratio of O/M near film surface.
Safety of Allogeneic Umbilical Cord Blood Stem Cells Therapy in Patients with Severe Cerebral Palsy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Feng Mei , Lu Aili , Gao Hongxia , Qian Caiwen , Zhang Jun , Lin Tongxiang , Zhao Yuanqi
Published: July 2015

This retrospective study aimed to assess the safety of patients with severe cerebral palsy (CP), who received allogeneic umbilical cord blood stem cells (UCBSCs) treatment from August 2009 to December 2012 in Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine. A total of 47 patients with average age of5.85±6.12years were evaluated in this study. There was no significant association with allogeneic UCBSCs treatments found in the data of the laboratory index . No casualties occurred. Some adverse events during treatments were found in 26 (55.3%) patients, including fever (42.6%) and vomiting (21.2%). Intrathecal infusion and the ages at the initiation of treatment (≤10 years old) were risk factors for the occurrence of adverse events by logistic regression analysis. However, all adverse events disappeared after symptomatic treatment. No treatment related serious adverse events were found in follow-up visits within 6 months. In conclusion, allogeneic UCBSCs treatment was relatively safe for severe CP patients.
Small Bowel Perforation as a Postoperative Complication from a Laminectomy
Authors: Krieger Robert H. , Wojcicki Katherine M. , Berry Andrew C. , Reuther Warren L. , McArthur Kendrick D.
Published: July 2015

Chronic low back pain is one of the leading chief complaints affecting adults in the United States. As a result, this increases the percentage of patients that will eventually undergo surgical intervention to alleviate debilitating, chronic symptoms. A 37-year-old woman presented ten hours postoperatively after a lumbar laminectomy with an acute abdomen due to the extraordinarily rare complication of small bowel injury secondary to deep surgical penetration.
Compressive Mechanical Properties and Micromechanical Characteristics of Warm and Ice-Rich Frozen Silt
Authors: Yang Yugui , Gao Feng , Lai Yuanming
Published: July 2015

It is recognized experimentally that the compressibility of warm and ice-rich frozen soil is remarkable under loading, which will cause a significant deformation and affect the stability of infrastructure constructed in cold region. In this paper, the real-time computerized tomography tests of warm and ice-rich frozen silt were carried out. The microstructure characteristics in the process of loading were studied, and the macromechanical behaviors were obtained at the same time. The test results showed that the stress-strain curve of warm and ice-rich frozen silt is sensitive to temperature; the peak stress was greatly enhanced with the decrease of temperature, and the section area increases with the increase of axial strain; the water content mainly decreases with the increase of axial strain at −1°C; the change of water content is not obvious at −2°C in the loading process. The density damage changes little at first and then increases with the further increase of axial strain.
Takagi-Sugeno Fuzzy Model of a One-Half Semiactive Vehicle Suspension: Lateral Approach
Authors: Félix-Herrán L. C. , Mehdi D. , Rodríguez-Ortiz J. J. , Ramírez-Mendoza R. , Soto R.
Published: July 2015

This work presents a novel semiactive model of a one-half lateral vehicle suspension. The contribution of this research is the inclusion of actuator dynamics (two magnetorheological nonlinear dampers) in the modelling, which means that more realistic outcomes will be obtained, because, in real life, actuators have physical limitations. Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy approach is applied to a four-degree-of-freedom (4-DOF) lateral one-half vehicle suspension. The system has two magnetorheological (MR) dampers, whose numerical values come from a real characterization. T-S allows handling suspension’s components and actuator’s nonlinearities (hysteresis, saturation, and viscoplasticity) by means of a set of linear subsystems interconnected via fuzzy membership functions. Due to their linearity, each subsystem can be handled with the very well-known control theory, for example, stability and performance indexes (this is an advantage of the T-S approach). To the best of authors’ knowledge, reported work does not include the aforementioned nonlinearities in the modelling. The generated model is validated via a case of study with simulation results. This research is paramount because it introduces a more accurate (the actuator dynamics, a complex nonlinear subsystem) model that could be applied to one-half vehicle suspension control purposes. Suspension systems are extremely important for passenger comfort and stability in ground vehicles.
Diversity and Global Distribution of IncL/M Plasmids Enabling Horizontal Dissemination ofβ-Lactam Resistance Genes among the Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Adamczuk Marcin , Zaleski Piotr , Dziewit Lukasz , Wolinowska Renata , Nieckarz Marta , Wawrzyniak Pawel , Kieryl Piotr , Plucienniczak Andrzej , Bartosik Dariusz
Published: July 2015

Antibiotic resistance determinants are frequently associated with plasmids and other mobile genetic elements, which simplifies their horizontal transmission. Several groups of plasmids (including replicons of the IncL/M incompatibility group) were found to play an important role in the dissemination of resistance genes encodingβ-lactamases. The IncL/M plasmids are large, broad host range, and self-transmissible replicons. We have identified and characterized two novel members of this group: pARM26 (isolated from bacteria inhabiting activated sludge from a wastewater treatment plant) and pIGT15 (originating from a clinical strain ofEscherichia coli). This instigated a detailed comparative analysis of all available sequences of IncL/M plasmids encodingβ-lactamases. The core genome of these plasmids is comprised of 20 genes with conserved synteny. Phylogenetic analyses of these core genes allowed clustering of the plasmids into four separate groups, which reflect their antibiotic resistance profiles. Examination of the biogeography of the IncL/M plasmids revealed that they are most frequently found in bacteria of the family Enterobacteriaceae originating from the Mediterranean region and Western Europe and that they are able to persist in various ecological niches even in the absence of direct antibiotic selection pressure.
NKG2D Signaling Leads to NK Cell Mediated Lysis of Childhood AML
Authors: Schlegel Patrick , Ditthard Kerstin , Lang Peter , Mezger Markus , Michaelis Sebastian , Handgretinger Rupert , Pfeiffer Matthias
Published: July 2015

Natural killer cells have been shown to be relevant in the recognition and lysis of acute myeloid leukemia. In childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia, it was shown that HLA I expression and KIR receptor-ligand mismatch significantly impact ALL cytolysis. We characterized 14 different primary childhood AML blasts by flow cytometry including NKG2D ligands. Further HLA I typing of blasts was performed and HLA I on the AML blasts was quantified. In two healthy volunteer NK cell donors HLA I typing and KIR genotyping were done. Blasts with high NKG2D ligand expression had significantly higher lysis by isolated NK cells. Grouping the blasts by NKG2D ligand expression led to a significant inverse correlation of HLA I expression and cytolysis in NKG2D low blasts. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation of NKG2D ligand expression and blast cytolysis was shown. No impact of KIR ligand-ligand mismatch was found but a significantly increased lysis of homozygous C2 blasts by KIR2DL1 negative NK cells (donor B) was revealed. In conclusion, NKG2D signaling leads to NK cell mediated lysis of childhood AML despite high HLA I expression.
Attendance Check System and Implementation for Wi-Fi Networks Supporting Unlimited Number of Concurrent Connections
Authors: Choi Min , Park Jong-Hyuk , Yi Gangman
Published: July 2015

In the past, we used to call the name of members for the purpose of attendance checking by managers (or instructors). They verify the identity of member's participation by human recognition using facial and voice matching. This approach is time-consuming because the number of members is getting increased. Moreover, they may have to recheck any of the students’ presence at the end of the period manually. In this research, we offer a convenient novel attendance checking method to take advantage of Wi-Fi 802.11x technology. Our application initiates AP mode Wi-Fi service for checking attendance of users in which a token is generated only to a person who is close to a manager. If a member has the token, the smart application of the member will connect and report to attendance server. Otherwise, the smart application of the member will report to the server that the users/students are not near the manager. By this way managers/instructors can easily check the member's attendance. In addition, this research proposes a novel concept that unlimited number of devices can be supported. We make use of Wi-Fi scan (rather than connect) to the manager's AP enabled smart devices, resulting in an enhanced scalability.
Comparison of Mineral Element Content in a Functional Food Maca (Lepidium meyeniiWalp.) from Asia and South America
Authors: Zhang Ji , Wang Han-Mo , Zhao Yan-Li , Zuo Zhi-Tian , Wang Yuan-Zhong , Jin Hang
Published: July 2015

Contents of eight mineral elements in maca (Lepidium meyeniiWalp.) from China and Peru were determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Cu contents in maca samples from China (2.5–31 mg kg−1dry weight, dw) were higher than the samples from Peru (<2.1 mg kg−1 dw). Na in two samples from China was found to be significantly of high content (2400 and 2600 mg kg−1 dw). The contents (mg kg−1 dw) of B, Co, Cr, Li, Ni, and Zn were, respectively, 8.1–21, <0.023, <1.1~3.5, 0.020–0.17, 0.085–4.5, and 10–39 for the samples from China, while being 6.6–12, <0.023, <1.1~2.3, 0.035–0.063, 0.68–1.7, and 27–39 for the samples from Peru.
Hierarchical Slotted Wireless Random Channel Access with Power Control
Authors: Karouit Abdelillah , Orozco Barbosa Luis , Ramírez-Mireles Fernando , Haqiq Abdelkrim
Published: July 2015

This paper introduces a hierarchical Wireless Random Access scheme based on power control where intelligence is split among the mobile users in order to drive the outcome of the system towards an efficient point. The hierarchical game is obtained by introducing a special user who plays the role of altruistic leader whereas the other users assume the role of followers. We define the power control scheme in such a way that the leader_first chooses the lowest power to transmit its packets amongNavailable levels whereas the followers re-transmit by randomly choosing a power level picked fromN-1higher distinct power levels. Using a 3D Markovian model, we compute the steady state of the system and derive the average system throughput and expected packet transmission delay. Our numerical results show that the proposed scheme considerably improves the global performance of the system avoiding the well known throughput collapse at high loads commonly characterizing most random channel access mechanisms.
Effect of Imperatorin on the Spontaneous Motor Activity of Rat Isolated Jejunum Strips
Authors: Mendel Marta , Skalicka-Woźniak Krystyna , Chłopecka Magdalena , Dziekan Natalia
Published: July 2015

Imperatorin, a psoralen-type furanocoumarin, is a potent myorelaxant agent acting as a calcium antagonist on vascular smooth muscle. Its effects on other types of smooth muscle remain unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the hypothesized myorelaxant effect of imperatorin on gut motor activity and, possibly, to define the underlying mechanism of action. Imperatorin was made available for pharmacological studies from the fruits of the widely availableAngelica officinalisthrough the application of high-performance countercurrent chromatography (HPCCC). Imperatorin generated reversible relaxation of jejunum strips dose-dependently (1–100 μM). At 25 and 50 μM, imperatorin caused relaxation comparable to the strength of the reaction induced by isoproterenol (Isop) at 0.1 μM. The observed response resulted neither from the activation of soluble guanylate cyclase, nor fromβ-adrenoreceptor involvement, nor from Ca2+-activated potassium channels. Imperatorin relaxed intestine strips precontracted with high potassium concentration, attenuated the force and duration of K+-induced contractions, and modulated the response of jejunum strips to acetylcholine. The results suggest that imperatorin probably interacts with various Ca2+influx pathways in intestine smooth muscle. The types of some calcium channels involved in the activity of imperatorin will be examined in a subsequent study.
Current Concepts in the Management of Rheumatoid Hand
Authors: Longo Umile Giuseppe , Petrillo Stefano , Denaro Vincenzo
Published: July 2015

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by a T cell-driven autoimmune process, which majorly involves the diarthrodial joints. It affects 1% of the US population, and approximately 70% of patients with RA develop pathologies of the hand, especially of the metacarpophalangeal joints (MCP). Furthermore, also the extensor and flexor tendons of the fingers are frequently involved. The first line of treatment should be conservative. Three general classes of drugs are currently available for RA: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Encouraging results have been obtained using DMARDs. However, when severe deformities occur or when patients are unresponsive to medical management and injections therapy, surgical intervention should be performed to relieve pain and restore function. Several surgical options have been described for the management of MCP joint deformities, including soft tissue procedures, arthrodesis, and prosthetic replacement. Tendons ruptures are generally managed with tendon transfer surgery, while different surgical procedures are available to treat fingers deformities. The aim of the present review is to report the current knowledge in the management of MCP joint deformities, as well as tendons damage and fingers deformities, in patients with RA.
A Key Management Method Based on Dynamic Clustering for Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Ying , Zheng Bingxin , Ji Pengfei , Cao Jinde
Published: July 2015

Many cluster-based routing protocols had been proposed which had rarely considered the network security issues so far. The existing key management methods have imperfection when they combine with cluster-based routing protocols. Normally cluster-based key management method has better performance than the distributed key management method, but most of the layer-cluster key management methods do not consider the problem of key updating and being captured for cluster heads. Considering the nodes’ capture probability, particle swarm optimization algorithm was used to optimize the clustering of sensor networks. A dynamic key management method was proposed to achieve key updating regularly and provided a security strategy for sensor networks to solve the problem of being captured for cluster heads. The simulation illustrates that the proposed key management method can achieve better security performance.
Improved Salinity Tolerance in Carrizo Citrange Rootstock through Overexpression of Glyoxalase System Genes
Authors: Alvarez-Gerding Ximena , Cortés-Bullemore Rowena , Medina Consuelo , Romero-Romero Jesús L. , Inostroza-Blancheteau Claudio , Aquea Felipe , Arce-Johnson Patricio
Published: July 2015

Citrus plants are widely cultivated around the world and, however, are one of the most salt stress sensitive crops. To improve salinity tolerance, transgenic Carrizo citrange rootstocks that overexpress glyoxalase I and glyoxalase II genes were obtained and their salt stress tolerance was evaluated. Molecular analysis showed high expression for both glyoxalase genes (BjGlyIandPgGlyII) in 5H03 and 5H04 lines. Under control conditions, transgenic and wild type plants presented normal morphology. In salinity treatments, the transgenic plants showed less yellowing, marginal burn in lower leaves and showed less than 40% of leaf damage compared with wild type plants. The transgenic plants showed a significant increase in the dry weight of shoot but there are no differences in the root and complete plant dry weight. In addition, a higher accumulation of chlorine is observed in the roots in transgenic line 5H03 but in shoot it was lower. Also, the wild type plant accumulated around 20% more chlorine in the shoot compared to roots. These results suggest that heterologous expression of glyoxalase system genes could enhance salt stress tolerance in Carrizo citrange rootstock and could be a good biotechnological approach to improve the abiotic stress tolerance in woody plant species.
Subjective Experiences of Speech and Language Therapy in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Spurgeon Laura , Clarke Carl E. , Sackley Cath
Published: July 2015

Purpose. Parkinson’s disease can produce a range of speech-language pathologies, which may require intervention. While evaluations of speech-language therapy have been undertaken, no work has been undertaken to capture patients’ experiences of therapy. This was the aim of the present study.Methods. Semistructured interviews, using themes derived from the literature, were conducted with nine Parkinson’s disease patients, all of whom had undergone speech-language therapy. Participants’ responses were analysed in accordance with Thematic Network Analysis.Results. Four themes emerged:emotional reactions(frustration, embarrassment, lack of confidence, disappointment, and anxiety);physical impact(fatigue, breathing and swallowing, and word production);practical aspects(cost of treatment, waiting times, and the actual clinical experience); andexpectations about treatment(met versus unmet).Conclusions. While many benefits of speech-language therapy were reported, several negative issues emerged which could impact adversely on rehabilitation. Parkinson’s disease is associated with a range of psychological and physical sequelae, such as fatigue and depression; recognising any individual experiences which could exacerbate the existing condition and incorporating these into treatment planning may improve rehabilitation outcomes.
Combined Intrathoracic and Subcutaneous Splenosis Discovered 51 Years after Abdominal Trauma
Authors: Gleason James Benjamin , Hadeh Anas , Diacovo Maria Julia , Schroeder Jonathan Ryan
Published: July 2015

Splenosis is a rare condition that results from the autotransplantation of splenic parenchyma into unexpected locations such as the abdomen or subcutaneous tissue. In the presence of coexisting injury to the diaphragm intrathoracic transplantation can occur emerging as single or multiple pleural-based masses. This occurs after traumatic rupture of the spleen and is usually asymptomatic, only to be discovered incidentally on routine thoracic or abdominal imaging. To our knowledge this is the third documented case of combined intrathoracic and subcutaneous splenosis found in English literature. This occurred in a 71-year-old male involved in a motor vehicle accident at age 19 requiring urgent splenectomy. He has a significant cigarette smoking history and was referred to our hospital for further evaluation of an abnormality seen on shoulder X-ray.