bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cycle-Accurate Network on Chip Simulation with Noxim
Authors: Catania Vincenzo , Mineo Andrea , Monteleone Salvatore , Palesi Maurizio , Patti Davide
Published: August 2016

The on-chip communication in current Chip-MultiProcessors (CMP) and MultiProcessor-SoC (MPSoC) is mainly based on the Network-on-Chip (NoC) design paradigm. Unfortunately, it is foreseen that conventional NoC architectures cannot sustain the performance, power, and reliability requirements demanded by the next generation of manycore architectures. Recently, emerging on-chip communication technologies, like wireless Networks-on-Chip (WiNoCs), have been proposed as candidate solutions for addressing the scalability limitations of conventional multi-hop NoC architectures. In a WiNoC, a subset of network nodes are equipped with a wireless interface which allows them long-range communication in a single hop. Assessing the performance and power figures of NoC and WiNoC architectures requires the availability of simulation tools that are often limited on modeling specific network configurations. This article presents Noxim, an open, configurable, extendible, cycle-accurate NoC simulator developed in SystemC, which allows to analyze the performance and power figures of both conventional wired NoC and emerging WiNoC architectures.
Insulin does not stimulate muscle protein synthesis during increased plasma branched-chain amino acids alone but still decreases whole body proteolysis in humans
Authors: Everman Sarah , Meyer Christian , Tran Lee , Hoffman Nyssa , Carroll Chad C. , Dedmon William L. , Katsanos Christos S.
Published: August 2016

Insulin stimulates muscle protein synthesis when the levels of total amino acids, or at least the essential amino acids, are at or above their postabsorptive concentrations. Among the essential amino acids, branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) have the primary role in stimulating muscle protein synthesis and are commonly sought alone to stimulate muscle protein synthesis in humans. Fourteen healthy young subjects were studied before and after insulin infusion to examine whether insulin stimulates muscle protein synthesis in relation to the availability of BCAA alone. One half of the subjects were studied in the presence of postabsorptive BCAA concentrations (control) and the other half in the presence of increased plasma BCAA (BCAA). Compared with that prior to the initiation of the insulin infusion, fractional synthesis rate of muscle protein (%/h) did not change ( P > 0.05) during insulin in either the control (0.04 ± 0.01 vs 0.05 ± 0.01) or the BCAA (0.05 ± 0.02 vs. 0.05 ± 0.01) experiments. Insulin decreased ( P < 0.01) whole body phenylalanine rate of appearance (μmol·kg−1·min−1), indicating suppression of muscle proteolysis, in both the control (1.02 ± 0.04 vs 0.76 ± 0.04) and the BCAA (0.89 ± 0.07 vs 0.61 ± 0.03) experiments, but the change was not different between the two experiments ( P > 0.05). In conclusion, insulin does not stimulate muscle protein synthesis in the presence of increased circulating levels of plasma BCAA alone. Insulin's suppressive effect on proteolysis is observed independently of the levels of circulating plasma BCAA.
Preparation and In Vivo Pharmacokinetics of the Tongshu Suppository
Authors: Liu Guoqiang , Dong Leilei , Lu Kuan , Liu Sisi , Zheng Yingying
Published: August 2016

Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) (used for intestinal protection) was added to formulate the Tongshu suppository to improve the pharmacokinetics of Aceclofenac, which were assessed in New Zealand rabbits using an orthogonal experimental design. The single-agent Aceclofenac was taken as the control formulation. The concentration-time and drug release curves were drawn, andTmax(min),Cmax(μg·mL−1),AUC0→∞, and MRT were compared using a pharmacokinetic systems program. The formulated Tongshu suppository had moderate hardness, a smooth surface with uniform color, and theoretical drug-loading rate of 8%. Its release rate was in accordance with the drug preparation requirements. The concentration-time curves and drug release curves revealed that the maximum concentrations (Cmax) were4.18±1.03 μg·mL−1and3.34±0.41 μg·mL−1for the Tongshu and Aceclofenac suppositories, respectively, showing statistically insignificant difference, while the peak times were34.87±4.69 min and34.76±6.34 min, respectively, also showing statistically insignificant difference. Compared with the Aceclofenac suppository, the relative bioavailability of the Tongshu suppository was 104.4%, and the difference between them was statistically insignificant. In this experiment, the Tongshu suppository was prepared using the hot-melt method. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies confirmed it had higher bioavailability than the Aceclofenac suppository.
An Improved Micromechanical Framework for Saturated Concrete Repaired by the Electrochemical Deposition Method considering the Imperfect Bonding
Authors: Chen Qing , Jiang Zhengwu , Zhu Hehua , Ju J. Woody , Yan Zhiguo , Wang Yaqiong
Published: August 2016

The interfaces between the deposition products and concrete are not always well bonded when the electrochemical deposition method (EDM) is adopted to repair the deteriorated concrete. To theoretically illustrate the deposition healing process by micromechanics for saturated concrete considering the imperfect interfaces, an improved micromechanical framework with interfacial transition zone (ITZ) is proposed based on our recent studies. In this extension, the imperfect bonding is characterized by the ITZ, whose effects are calculated by modifying the generalized self-consistent model. Meanwhile, new multilevel homogenization schemes are employed to predict the effective properties of repaired concrete considering the ITZ effects. Moreover, modification procedures are presented to reach the properties of repaired concrete with ITZs in the dry state. To demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed micromechanical model, predictions obtained via the proposed micromechanical model are compared with those of the existing models and the experimental data, including results from extreme states during the EDM healing process. Finally, the influences of ITZ and deposition product on the healing effectiveness of EDM are discussed based on the proposed micromechanical model.
Bulk Restoration for SDN-Based Transport Network
Authors: Zhao Yang , Wang Lei , Chen Xue , Yang Futao
Published: August 2016

We propose a bulk restoration scheme for software defined networking- (SDN-) based transport network. To enhance the network survivability and improve the throughput, we allow disrupted flows to be recovered synchronously in dynamic order. In addition backup paths are scheduled globally by applying the principles of load balance. We model the bulk restoration problem using a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) formulation. Then, a heuristic algorithm is devised. The proposed algorithm is verified by simulation and the results are analyzed comparing with sequential restoration schemes.
Estimation on the Field Application for In-Site Recycling of the Wastes Soil from Preboring
Authors: Kim Baek-Joong , Choi Heebok
Published: August 2016

The design criteria for a structural foundation with soil cement injected precast piles (SIP) indicate that the cement milk gains a conservatively high compressive strength. In addition, a certain amount of the cement milk is lost to the surrounding soil as a result of the high water-cement ratio. Furthermore, the cost increases since the material needs to be exported to the outside of the construction site to dispose of the waste soil. This study was carried out to develop a new mixing method to replace a portion of the cement milk with site soil and a cement hardener. The applicability of this method was confirmed by examining the basic physical characteristics of the new material by on-site conducting dynamic pile loading and bond capacity tests. The test results indicate that the new filling material reduced the bleeding and reduced the loss of filling material when compared to cement milk, but the compressive strength and the results of the dynamic pile loading and bond capacity tests were lower than those obtained for cement milk. However, the new filling material satisfies the standard criterion for structure design, and the economic benefits of implementing the proposed method, including saving on the amount of cement used and reducing the costs of transporting waste soil, were confirmed.
Prognostic Impact of mRNA Expression Levels of HER1–4 (ERBB1–4) in Patients with Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer
Authors: Kripp Melanie , Merx Kirsten , Wirtz Ralph Markus , Gaiser Timo , Eidt Sebastian , Schwaab Juliana , Post Stefan , Wenz Frederik , Hochhaus Andreas , Hofheinz Ralf-Dieter , Erben Philipp
Published: August 2016

Background. No predictive or prognostic biomarker is available for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) undergoing perioperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT). Members of the human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family of receptor tyrosine kinases EGFR (HER1,ERBB1), HER2 (ERBB2), HER3 (ERBB3), and HER4 (ERBB4) are therapeutic targets in several cancers. The analysis was performed to assess expression levels and study the potential prognostic impact for disease-free and overall survival in patients with LARC.Patients and Methods.ERBB1–4mRNA expression and tumor proliferation using Ki-67 (MKI67) mRNA were evaluated using RT-quantitative PCR in paraffin-embedded tumor samples from 86 patients (median age: 63) treated with capecitabine or 5-fluorouracil-based CRT within a phase 3 clinical trial.Results. A positive correlation of HER4 and HER2, HER3 and HER2, and HER4 and HER3 with each other was observed. Patients with high mRNA expression ofERBB1(EGFR, HER1) had significantly increased risk for recurrence and death. Patients with high mRNA expression ofMKI67had reduced risk for relapse.Conclusion. This analysis suggests a prognostic impact of bothERBB1and MKi67 mRNA expression in LARC patients treated with capecitabine or fluorouracil-based chemoradiotherapy.
Microbial and Natural Metabolites That Inhibit Splicing: A Powerful Alternative for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Martínez-Montiel Nancy , Rosas-Murrieta Nora Hilda , Martínez-Montiel Mónica , Gaspariano-Cholula Mayra Patricia , Martínez-Contreras Rebeca D.
Published: August 2016

In eukaryotes, genes are frequently interrupted with noncoding sequences named introns. Alternative splicing is a nuclear mechanism by which these introns are removed and flanking coding regions named exons are joined together to generate a message that will be translated in the cytoplasm. This mechanism is catalyzed by a complex machinery known as the spliceosome, which is conformed by more than 300 proteins and ribonucleoproteins that activate and regulate the precision of gene expression when assembled. It has been proposed that several genetic diseases are related to defects in the splicing process, including cancer. For this reason, natural products that show the ability to regulate splicing have attracted enormous attention due to its potential use for cancer treatment. Some microbial metabolites have shown the ability to inhibit gene splicing and the molecular mechanism responsible for this inhibition is being studied for future applications. Here, we summarize the main types of natural products that have been characterized as splicing inhibitors, the recent advances regarding molecular and cellular effects related to these molecules, and the applications reported so far in cancer therapeutics.
The Effect of the More Active MuMs in Stirling Trial on Body Composition and Psychological Well-Being among Postnatal Women
Authors: Lee Alyssa S. , McInnes Rhona J. , Hughes Adrienne R. , Guthrie Wendy , Jepson Ruth
Published: August 2016

Introduction.Physical activity is important for health and well-being; however, rates of postnatal physical activity can be low. This paper reports the secondary outcomes of a trial aimed at increasing physical activity among postnatal women.Methods.More Active MuMs in Stirling (MAMMiS) was a randomised controlled trial testing the effect of physical activity consultation and pram walking group intervention among inactive postnatal women. Data were collected on postnatal weight, body composition, general well-being, and fatigue. Participants were also interviewed regarding motivations and perceived benefits of participating in the trial.Results.There was no significant effect of the intervention on any weight/body composition outcome or on general well-being at three or six months of follow-up. There was a significant but inconsistent difference in fatigue between groups. Qualitative data highlighted a number of perceived benefits to weight, body composition, and particularly well-being (including improved fatigue) which were not borne out by objective data.Discussion.The MAMMiS study found no impact of the physical activity intervention on body composition and psychological well-being and indicates that further research is required to identify successful approaches to increase physical activity and improve health and well-being among postnatal women.
Acute Monocytic Leukemia Masquerading Behçet’s Disease-Like Illness at Onset in an Elderly Female
Authors: Koba Shigeru , Sekioka Toshio , Takeda Sorou , Miyagawa-Hayashino Aya , Nishimura Keisuke , Imashuku Shinsaku
Published: August 2016

A previously healthy 74-year-old Japanese female was hospitalized with fever and high C-reactive protein. She developed palatal herpangina-like aphthous ulcers, localized intestinal wall thickening, terminal ileum ulcers, and an erythematous acneiform rash; thus Behçet’s disease-like illness was suspected. Significant peripheral blood acute monocytosis developed during her hospitalization and acute monocytic leukemia (FAB M5b) with normal karyotype was diagnosed. By immunostaining, the infiltrating cells in the skin and the terminal ileum were identified as monocytic leukemic cells. This case exhibited a unique initial presentation of Behçet’s disease-like illness associated with acute monocytic leukemia.
Icariin Attenuates OGD/R‐Induced Autophagy via Bcl‐2‐Dependent Cross Talk between Apoptosis and Autophagy in PC12 Cells
Authors: Mo Zhen-tao , Li Wen-na , Zhai Yu-rong , Gong Qi-hai
Published: August 2016

Icariin (ICA), an active component of Epimedium brevicornum Maxim, exerts a variety of neuroprotective effects such as antiapoptosis. However, the mechanisms underlying antiapoptosis of ICA in neurons exposed to oxygen‐glucose deprivation and reperfusion (OGD/R) are unclear. The B‐cell lymphoma‐2 (Bcl‐2) protein family plays an important role in the regulation of apoptosis and autophagy through Bcl‐2‐dependent cross talk. Bcl‐2 suppresses apoptosis by binding to Bax and inhibits autophagy by binding to Beclin‐1 which is an autophagy related protein. In the present study, MTT result showed that ICA increased cell viability significantly in OGD/R treated PC12 cells (P < 0.01). Results of western blotting analysis showed that ICA increased Bcl‐2 expression significantly and decreased expressions of Bax, cleaved Caspase‐3, Beclin‐1, and LC3‐II significantly in OGD/R treated PC12 cells (P < 0.01). These results suggest that ICA protects PC12 cells from OGD/R induced autophagy via Bcl‐2‐dependent cross talk between apoptosis and autophagy.
Working and Limitations of Cable Stiffening in Flexible Link Manipulators
Authors: Dixit Rahul , Kumar R. Prasanth
Published: August 2016

Rigid link manipulators (RLMs) are used in industry to move and manipulate objects in their workspaces. Flexible link manipulators (FLMs), which are much lighter and hence highly flexible compared to RLMs, have been proposed in the past as means to reduce energy consumption and increase the speed of operation. Unlike RLM, an FLM has infinite degrees of freedom actuated by finite number of actuators. Due to high flexibility affecting the precision of operation, special control algorithms are required to make them usable. Recently, a method to stiffen FLMs using cables, without adding significant inertia or adversely affecting the advantages of FLMs, has been proposed as a possible solution in a preliminary work by the authors. An FLM stiffened using cables can use existing control algorithms designed for RLMs. In this paper we discuss in detail the working principle and limitations of cable stiffening for flexible link manipulators through simulations and experiments. A systematic way of deciding the location of cable attachments to the FLM is also presented. The main result of this paper is to show the advantage of adding a second pair of cables in reducing overall link deflections.
Ring Chromosome 4 in a Child with Multiple Congenital Abnormalities: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Paththinige C. S. , Sirisena N. D. , Kariyawasam U. G. I. U. , Saman Kumara L. P. C. , Dissanayake V. H. W.
Published: August 2016

A female child born preterm with intrauterine growth retardation and presenting with facial dysmorphism with clefts, microcephaly, limb deformities, and congenital abnormalities involving cardiovascular and urinary systems is described. Chromosomal analysis showed ade novo46,XX,r(4)(p15.3q35) karyotype. The clinical features of the patient were compared with the phenotypic characteristics of 17 previously reported cases with ring chromosome 4 and those with Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome (4p-). Clinical features observed in this case are consistent with the consensus phenotype in ring chromosome 4. Patent ductus arteriosus and bilateral talipes equinovarus observed in this baby widen the phenotypic spectrum associated with ring chromosome 4.
Comparison of Two Soy Globulins on the Dynamic-Mechanical Properties of the Dough and the Quality of Steamed Bread
Authors: Gao Xue-Li , Chen Fu-Sheng , Zhang Li-Fen , Bu Guan-Hao , Fan Ming-Tao
Published: August 2016

To investigate the effect of the soy protein concentrate (CSP) and 7S and 11S soy globulin on wheat dough and steamed bread (SB), mixing properties of the dough were assessed by farinograph and dynamic-mechanical analyzer (DMA). The quality attributes of SB were assessed by texture profile analyzer (TPA), sensory analysis, and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results showed that CSP, 7S, or 11S (each from 2.0 to 4.0%) significantly decreased gluten content (from 29.4 to 26.0, 36.7 to 31.8, and 31.6 to 30.7%), when those were added to wheat flour. The CSP/wheat dough stability was increased (from 6.5 to 8.4, 6.5 to 8.5, and 6.5 to 8.3 min) and the degree of softening was decreased (from 71.0 to 68.0, 71.0 to 64.0, and 71.0 to 62.0 min), but 7S or 11S had the opposite result. Moreover, the ratio of 7S and 11S has a significant effect on the quality of the dough. The storage modulus and loss modulus of soy/wheat dough decreased in the order of CSP, control, 11S soy globulin, and 7S soy globulin. The hardness, chewiness, and cohesiveness of SB decreased in the order of control, CSP, 11S soy globulin, and 7S soy globulin. Microstructure demonstrated that gluten network was interfered by SPC, 7S, and 11S soy protein, which was in agreement with the texture analysis index. The quality of SB with 3% 11S was the best in texture, microstructure, and sensory. These findings indicate that 11S has the potential to be used as a special soy protein for SB making.
Endobronchial Carcinoid Tumour with Extensive Ossification: An Unusual Case Presentation
Authors: Osmond Allison , Filter Emily , Joseph Mariamma , Inculet Richard , Kwan Keith , McCormack David
Published: August 2016

Carcinoid tumour is a well-known primary endobronchial lung neoplasm. Although calcifications may be seen in up to 30% of pulmonary carcinoid tumours, near complete ossification of these tumours is an unusual finding. Such lesions can prove diagnostically challenging at the time of intraoperative frozen section as the latter technique requires thin sectioning of the lesion for microscopic assessment. We present an unusual case of endobronchial carcinoid tumour with extensive ossification in a 45-year-old male. Preliminary intraoperative diagnosis was achieved through the alternative use of cytology scrape smears. The final diagnosis was confirmed after decalcification of the tumour. The prognostic implications of heavily ossified carcinoid tumours remain elusive. Long-term clinical follow-up of these patients is recommended.
A Novel Method for Evaluating the Cardiotoxicity of Traditional Chinese Medicine Compatibility by Using Support Vector Machine Model Combined with Metabonomics
Authors: Li Yubo , Zhou Haonan , Xie Jiabin , Ally Mayassa Salum , Hou Zhiguo , Xu Yanyan , Zhang Yanjun
Published: August 2016

Traditional biochemical and histopathological tests have been used to evaluate the safety of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) compatibility for a long time. But these methods lack high sensitivity and specificity. In the previous study, we have found ten biomarkers related to cardiotoxicity and established a support vector machine (SVM) prediction model. Results showed a good sensitivity and specificity. Therefore, in this study, we used SVM model combined with metabonomics UPLC/Q‐TOF‐MS technology to build a rapid and sensitivity and specificity method to predict the cardiotoxicity of TCM compatibility. This study firstly applied SVM model to the prediction of cardiotoxicity in TCM compatibility containing Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata and further identified whether the cardiotoxicity increased after Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata combined with other TCM. This study provides a new idea for studying the evaluation of the cardiotoxicity caused by compatibility of TCM.
Differential Intracochlear Sound Pressure Measurements in Human Temporal Bones with an Off-the-Shelf Sensor
Authors: Grossöhmichen Martin , Salcher Rolf , Püschel Klaus , Lenarz Thomas , Maier Hannes
Published: August 2016

The standard method to determine the output level of acoustic and mechanical stimulation to the inner ear is measurement of vibration response of the stapes in human cadaveric temporal bones (TBs) by laser Doppler vibrometry. However, this method is reliable only if the intact ossicular chain is stimulated. For other stimulation modes an alternative method is needed. The differential intracochlear sound pressure between scala vestibuli (SV) and scala tympani (ST) is assumed to correlate with excitation. Using a custom-made pressure sensor it has been successfully measured and used to determine the output level of acoustic and mechanical stimulation. To make this method generally accessible, an off-the-shelf pressure sensor (Samba Preclin 420 LP, Samba Sensors) was tested here for intracochlear sound pressure measurements. During acoustic stimulation, intracochlear sound pressures were simultaneously measurable in SV and ST between 0.1 and 8 kHz with sufficient signal-to-noise ratios with this sensor. The pressure differences were comparable to results obtained with custom-made sensors. Our results demonstrated that the pressure sensor Samba Preclin 420 LP is usable for measurements of intracochlear sound pressures in SV and ST and for the determination of differential intracochlear sound pressures.
Species Specific Responses to Age on Nodule Formation, Seedling Growth, and Biomass Production of Acacia auriculiformis at Nursery Stage
Authors: Azad Md. Salim , Sumon Md. Mehedi Hasan
Published: August 2016

Nodulation responses of leguminous trees are very important for intercropping to reduce reliance on artificial nitrogen input through nitrogen fixation in agroforestry system. This study was carried out to evaluate the status of nodulation (i.e., the number of nodules and their shape and size) in root and biomass production of plant growth parameters (i.e., number of leaves, shoot height, root biomass, and shoot biomass) of A. auriculiformis seedlings. The assessment was conducted 60 days after seed germination. The study revealed significant differences in nodule number per seedling, leaf number per seedling, shoot height, and biomass accumulation (both green and oven dry weight) with seedling age (p<0.05). The study also revealed significant correlation among the variables of nodulation responses and biomass production. The results obtained using principal component analysis (PCA) justified correlation matrix of nodulation responses and biomass production of this species. The PCA showed that root biomass per seedling, leaf number per seedling, nodule number per seedling, shoot height, age of seedling, and shoot biomass per seedling were clustered with PC1 (with an eigenvalue of 5.59) and root shoot ratios were clustered with PC2 (with an eigenvalue of 1.82). Our study justified that shoot height may be an important determinant of nodule formation of A. auriculiformis.
Hepatitis C Virus in North Africa: An Emerging Threat
Authors: Daw Mohamed A. , El-Bouzedi Abdallah , Ahmed Mohamed O. , Dau Aghnyia A. , Agnan Mohamed M.
Published: August 2016

Hepatitis C virus is a major public health threat associated with serious clinical consequences worldwide. North Africa is a unique region composed of seven countries that vary considerably in the predisposing factors to microbial diseases both historically and at the present time. The dynamics of HCV in the region are not well documented. The data are both limited and controversial in most of the countries in the region. In North Africa, the epidemiology of HCV is disparate and understanding it has been hampered by regional “epidemiological homogeneity” concepts. As the dynamics of HCV vary from country to country, context-specific research is needed. In this review, we assess studies performed in each country in the general populations as well as among blood donors and groups exposed to the HCV infection. The reported prevalence of HCV ranges from 0.6% to 8.4% in the Maghreb countries and is predominated by genotype 1. In the Nile valley region, it ranges from 2.2% to 18.9% and is dominated by genotype 4. In North African countries, HCV seems to be a serious problem that is driven by different vectors even in different geographical locations within the same country. Efforts should be combined at both the national and regional levels to implement efficient preventive and treatment strategies.
Addressing Work-Related Issues in Medical Rehabilitation: Revision of an Online Information Tool for Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Lukasczik Matthias , Wolf Hans-Dieter , Gerlich Christian , Küffner Roland , Vogel Heiner , Neuderth Silke
Published: August 2016

Background.Medical rehabilitation increasingly considers occupational issues as determinants of health and work ability. Information on work-related rehabilitation concepts should therefore be made available to healthcare professionals.Objective.To revise a website providing healthcare professionals in medical rehabilitation facilities with information on work-related concepts in terms of updating existing information and including new topics, based on recommendations from implementation research.Method.The modification process included a questionnaire survey of medical rehabilitation centers (n=28); two workshops with experts from rehabilitation centers, health payers, and research institutions (n=14); the selection of new topics and revision of existing text modules based on expert consensus; and an update of good practice descriptions of work-related measures.Results.Health payers’ requirements, workplace descriptions, and practical implementation aids were added as new topics. The database of good practice examples was extended to 63 descriptions. Information on introductory concepts was rewritten and supplemented by current data. Diagnostic tools were updated by including additional assessments.Conclusions.Recommendations from implementation research such as assessing user needs and including expert knowledge may serve as a useful starting point for the dissemination of information on work-related medical rehabilitation into practice. Web-based information tools such as the website presented here can be quickly adapted to current evidence and changes in medicolegal regulations.
Microtubule Polymerization Functions in Hypersensitive Response and Accumulation of H2O2in Wheat Induced by the Stripe Rust
Authors: Wang Juan , Wang Yang , Liu Xinjie , Xu Yuanliu , Ma Qing
Published: August 2016

The plant cytoskeleton, including microtubules and microfilaments, is one of the important factors in determining the polarity of cell division and growth, as well as the interaction of plants with invading pathogens. In defense responses of wheat against the stripe rust (Puccinia striiformisf. sp.tritici) infection, hypersensitive response is the most crucial event to prevent the spread of pathogens. In order to reveal the effect of microtubules on the hypersensitive cell death and H2O2accumulation in the interaction of wheat (Triticum aestivum) cv. Suwon 11 with an incompatible race, CYR23, wheat leaves were treated with microtubule inhibitor, oryzalin, before inoculation. The results showed that the frequency of infection sites with hypersensitive response occurrence was significantly reduced, and hypersensitive cell death in wheat leaves was suppressed compared to the control. In addition, the frequency and the incidence of infected cells with H2O2accumulation were also reduced after the treatment with oryzalin. Those results indicated that microtubules are related to hypersensitive response and H2O2accumulation in wheat induced by the stripe rust, and depolymerization of microtubules reduces the resistance of plants to pathogen infection in incompatible interaction, suggesting that microtubules play a potential role in the expression of resistance of wheat against the stripe rust fungus.
The Disruption of Geniculocalcarine Tract in Occipital Neoplasm: A Diffusion Tensor Imaging Study
Authors: Zhang Yan , Wan Sihai , Wen Ge , Zhang Xuelin
Published: August 2016

Aim. Investigate the disruption of geniculocalcarine tract (GCT) in different occipital neoplasm by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI).Methods. Thirty-two subjects (44.1 ± 3.6 years) who had single occipital neoplasm (9 gliomas, 6 meningiomas, and 17 metastatic tumors) with ipsilateral GCT involved and thirty healthy subjects (39.2 ± 3.3 years) underwent conventional sequences scanning and diffusion tensor imaging by a 1.5T MR scanner. The diffusion-sensitive gradient direction is 13. Compare the fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) values of healthy GCT with the corresponding values of GCT in peritumoral edema area. Perform diffusion tensor tractography (DTT) on GCT by the line propagation technique in all subjects.Results. The FA values of GCT in peritumoral edema area decreased (P=0.001) while the MD values increased (P=0.002) when compared with healthy subjects. There was no difference in the FA values across tumor types (P=0.114) while the MD values of GCT in the metastatic tumor group were higher than the other groups (P=0.001). GCTs were infiltrated in all the 9 gliomas cases, with displacement in 2 cases and disruption in 7 cases. GCTs were displaced in 6 meningiomas cases. GCTs were displaced in all the 7 metastatic cases, with disruption in 7 cases.Conclusions. DTI represents valid markers for evaluating GCT’s disruption in occipital neoplasm. The disruption of GCT varies according to the properties of neoplasm.
Numerical Studies of the Effects of Water Capsules on Self-Healing Efficiency and Mechanical Properties in Cementitious Materials
Authors: Huang Haoliang , Ye Guang
Published: August 2016

In this research, self-healing due to further hydration of unhydrated cement particles is taken as an example for investigating the effects of capsules on the self-healing efficiency and mechanical properties of cementitious materials. The efficiency of supply of water by using capsules as a function of capsule dosages and sizes was determined numerically. By knowing the amount of water supplied via capsules, the efficiency of self-healing due to further hydration of unhydrated cement was quantified. In addition, the impact of capsules on mechanical properties was investigated numerically. The amount of released water increases with the dosage of capsules at different slops as the size of capsules varies. Concerning the best efficiency of self-healing, the optimizing size of capsules is 6.5 mm for capsule dosages of 3%, 5%, and 7%, respectively. Both elastic modulus and tensile strength of cementitious materials decrease with the increase of capsule. The decreasing tendency of tensile strength is larger than that of elastic modulus. However, it was found that the increase of positive effect (the capacity of inducing self-healing) of capsules is larger than that of negative effects (decreasing mechanical properties) when the dosage of capsules increases.
Fibronectin and Cyclic Strain Improve Cardiac Progenitor Cell Regenerative Potential In Vitro
Authors: French Kristin M. , Maxwell Joshua T. , Bhutani Srishti , Ghosh-Choudhary Shohini , Fierro Marcos J. , Johnson Todd D. , Christman Karen L. , Taylor W. Robert , Davis Michael E.
Published: August 2016

Cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs) have rapidly advanced to clinical trials, yet little is known regarding their interaction with the microenvironment. Signaling cues present in the microenvironment change with development and disease. This work aims to assess the influence of two distinct signaling moieties on CPCs: cyclic biaxial strain and extracellular matrix. We evaluate four endpoints for improving CPC therapy: paracrine signaling, proliferation, connexin43 expression, and alignment. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (about 900 pg/mL) was secreted by CPCs cultured on fibronectin and collagen I. The application of mechanical strain increased vascular endothelial growth factor A secretion 2–4‐fold for CPCs cultured on poly‐L‐lysine, laminin, or a naturally derived cardiac extracellular matrix. CPC proliferation was at least 25% higher on fibronectin than that on other matrices, especially for lower strain magnitudes. At 5% strain, connexin43 expression was highest on fibronectin. With increasing strain magnitude, connexin43 expression decreased by as much as 60% in CPCs cultured on collagen I and a naturally derived cardiac extracellular matrix. Cyclic mechanical strain induced the strongest CPC alignment when cultured on fibronectin or collagen I. This study demonstrates that culturing CPCs on fibronectin with 5% strain magnitude is optimal for their vascular endothelial growth factor A secretion, proliferation, connexin43 expression, and alignment.
Impact of Substrate Outgassing on the Growth of Carbon Nanotubes Using the Single-Pulse Discharge Method
Authors: Su C. H. , Huang C. H.
Published: August 2016

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were fabricated in air using the electrical discharge machining method. The main parameters for this process were substrate temperature, peak current (Ip), and pulse duration (τ). The substrate was baked at 50°C and this temperature was maintained for 12 h under vacuum chamber; it was then cooled to room temperature and stored in vacuum for outgassing. During single-pulse discharge in air, the substrate was heated from room temperature to the test temperatures (50 and 70°C). The results indicated that the length, density, and purity of CNTs grown on outgassed substrates were better than those of CNTs grown without outgassing. Additionally, CNTs grown withIp= 3 A andτ= 1200 μs were of better quality than those grown with other combinations of parameters. The size of the discharge pit was effectively reduced by 30% (80 μm). This finding may help in controlling the amount of peak current used during the process, thereby reducing the problems of heat-affected zones and electrode consumption. Consequently, there was substantial improvement in the zonal selectivity and reticular density of the CNTs grown using the single-pulse discharge method.
The Difference of Chemical Components and Biological Activities of the Crude Products and the Salt‐Processed Product from Semen Cuscutae
Authors: Yang Song , Xu Hefang , Zhao Baosheng , Li Shasha , Li Tingting , Xu Xinfang , Zhang Tianjiao , Lin Ruichao , Li Jian , Li Xiangri
Published: August 2016

Semen Cuscutae is a well‐known Chinese medicine which has been used to nourish kidney in China for thousands of years. The crude product of semen Cuscutae (CP) and its salt‐processed product (SPP) are separately used in clinic for their different effects. The study was designed to investigate the influence of processing from semen Cuscutae on chemical components and biological effects. The principal component analysis and quantitative analysis were used to study the differences of the chemical components. The effects of nourishing kidney were detected to compare the differences between the CP and SPP. The PCA results showed that the obvious separation was achieved in the CP and SPP samples. The results of quantitative analysis showed that quercetin and total flavonoids had significantly increased after salt processing while hyperoside had decreased. The comparison of CP and SPP on biological activities showed that both of them could ameliorate the kidney‐yang deficiency syndrome by restoring the level of sex hormone, improving the immune function and antioxidant effect. However, SPP was better in increasing the level of T and the viscera weight of testicle and epididymis, improving the antioxidant effect. The results suggested that salt processing changed its chemical profile, which in turn enhanced its biological activities.
Thermal Properties of Silver Nanoparticle Sintering Bonding Paste for High-Power LED Packaging
Authors: Zhang Ping , Wei Rongzhuan , Zeng Jianhua , Cai Miao , Xiao Jing , Yang Daoguo
Published: August 2016

This paper describes the preparation of low-temperature sintered nanosilver paste with inverse microemulsion method with Span-80/Triton X-100 as the mixed-surfactant and analyzes the influence of different sintering parameters (temperature, pressure) on the shear properties of low-temperature sintering of nanosilver. Experimental results show that the shear strength of the low-temperature sintering of nanosilver increases as the temperature and pressure increase. But there are many pores and relative fewer cracks on the sintering layer after low-temperature sintered. The test thermal resistance of low-temperature sintered nanosilver paste is 0.795 K/W which is greater than SAC305 weld layer with a T3ster thermal analyzer. The adhesive performance and the heat dispersion of low-temperature sintered nanosilver paste need to be further researched and improved.
Design, Characterization, and Optimization of Controlled Drug Delivery System Containing Antibiotic Drug/s
Authors: Patel Apurv , Dodiya Hitesh , Shelate Pragna , Shastri Divyesh , Dave Divyang
Published: August 2016

The objective of this work was design, characterization, and optimization of controlled drug delivery system containing antibiotic drug/s. Osmotic drug delivery system was chosen as controlled drug delivery system. The porous osmotic pump tablets were designed using Plackett-Burman and Box-Behnken factorial design to find out the best formulation. For screening of three categories of polymers, six independent variables were chosen for Plackett-Burman design. Osmotic agent sodium chloride and microcrystalline cellulose, pore forming agent sodium lauryl sulphate and sucrose, and coating agent ethyl cellulose and cellulose acetate were chosen as independent variables. Optimization of osmotic tablets was done by Box-Behnken design by selecting three independent variables. Osmotic agent sodium chloride, pore forming agent sodium lauryl sulphate, and coating agent cellulose acetate were chosen as independent variables. The result of Plackett-Burman and Box-Behnken design and ANOVA studies revealed that osmotic agent and pore former had significant effect on the drug release up to 12 hr. The observed independent variables were found to be very close to predicted values of most satisfactory formulation which demonstrates the feasibility of the optimization procedure in successful development of porous osmotic pump tablets containing antibiotic drug/s by using sodium chloride, sodium lauryl sulphate, and cellulose acetate as key excipients.
Gamma-Ray Treatment ofEchinococcusProtoscoleces prior to Implantation in Mice Reduces Echinococcosis
Authors: Yuan Qing , Li Bo , Jiang Shiping , Zhao Qiang , Duo Ji , Huang Xiang
Published: August 2016

Echinococcosis is a serious parasitic disease caused byEchinococcustapeworms. Protoscoleces are sometimes released during surgical treatment for hydatid cysts, causing the recurrence of echinococcosis. Protoscoleces may be susceptible to radiation therapy. In this studyEchinococcusprotoscoleces were culturedin vitroand then divided into four differentγ-ray irradiation dose groups (10 Gy, 20 Gy, 40 Gy, and 80 Gy) and a blank group. The protoscoleces were then implanted into the abdominal cavity of mice. Four months later, we observed that the incidence and weight of cysts declined with the increase of irradiation dose.γ-ray irradiation can suppress the generation ofEchinococcusoriginated from protoscolex, the reason of which is due to the damaging to the structure ofEchinococcus. Irradiation may prevent echinococcosis recurrence after surgical removal of hydatid cysts.
PRP Treatment Efficacy for Tendinopathy: A Review of Basic Science Studies
Authors: Zhou Yiqin , Wang James H-C.
Published: August 2016

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) has been widely used in orthopaedic surgery and sport medicine to treat tendon injuries. However, the efficacy of PRP treatment for tendinopathy is controversial. This paper focuses on reviewing the basic science studies on PRP performed under well-controlled conditions. Bothin vitroandin vivostudies describe PRP’s anabolic and anti-inflammatory effects on tendons. While some clinical trials support these findings, others refute them. In this review, we discuss the effectiveness of PRP to treat tendon injuries with evidence presented in basic science studies and the potential reasons for the controversial results in clinical trials. Finally, we comment on the approaches that may be required to improve the efficacy of PRP treatment for tendinopathy.
Roles of Peroxisomes in the Rice Blast Fungus
Authors: Chen Xiao-Lin , Wang Zhao , Liu Caiyun
Published: August 2016

The rice blast fungus,Magnaporthe oryzae, is a model plant pathogenic fungus and is a severe threat to global rice production. Over the past two decades, it has been found that the peroxisomes play indispensable roles duringM. oryzaeinfection. Given the importance of the peroxisomes for virulence, we review recent advances of the peroxisomes roles duringM. oryzaeinfection processes. We firstly introduce the molecular mechanisms and life cycles of the peroxisomes. And then, metabolic functions related to the peroxisomes are also discussed. Finally, we provide an overview of the relationship between peroxisomes and pathogenicity.
A Mixed Finite Element Formulation for the Conservative Fractional Diffusion Equations
Authors: Yang Suxiang , Chen Huanzhen
Published: August 2016

We consider a boundary-value problem of one-side conservative elliptic equation involving Riemann-Liouville fractional integral. The appearance of the singular term in the solution leads to lower regularity of the solution of the equation, so to the lower order convergence rate for the numerical solution. In this paper, by the dividing of equation, we drop the lower regularity term in the solution successfully and get a new fractional elliptic equation which has full regularity. We present a theoretical framework of mixed finite element approximation to the new fractional elliptic equation and derive the error estimates for unknown function, its derivative, and fractional-order flux. Some numerical results are illustrated to confirm the optimal error estimates.
Length of Stay in Ambulatory Surgical Oncology Patients at High Risk for Sleep Apnea as Predicted by STOP-BANG Questionnaire
Authors: Balachandran Diwakar D. , Faiz Saadia A. , Hernandez Mike , Kowalski Alicia M. , Bashoura Lara , Goravanchi Farzin , Cherian Sujith V. , Rebello Elizabeth , Kee Spencer S. , French Katy E.
Published: August 2016

Background. The STOP-BANG questionnaire has been used to identify surgical patients at risk for undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by classifying patients as low risk (LR) if STOP-BANG score < 3 or high risk (HR) if STOP-BANG score ≥ 3. Few studies have examined whether postoperative complications are increased in HR patients and none have been described in oncologic patients.Objective. This retrospective study examined if HR patients experience increased complications evidenced by an increased length of stay (LOS) in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU).Methods. We retrospectively measured LOS and the frequency of oxygen desaturation (<93%) in cancer patients who were given the STOP-BANG questionnaire prior to cystoscopy for urologic disease in an ambulatory surgery center.Results. The majority of patients in our study were men (77.7%), over the age of 50 (90.1%), and had BMI < 30 kg/m2(88.4%). STOP-BANG results were obtained on 404 patients. Cumulative incidence of the time to discharge between HR and the LR groups was plotted. By 8 hours, LR patients showed a higher cumulative probability of being discharged early (80% versus 74%,P=0.008).Conclusions. Urologic oncology patients at HR for OSA based on the STOP-BANG questionnaire were less likely to be discharged early from the PACU compared to LR patients.
Feasibility and Acceptability of a Smartphone App for Daily Reports of Substance Use and Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence among HIV-Infected Adults
Authors: Przybyla Sarahmona M. , Eliseo-Arras Rebecca K. , Krawiec Gabriela , Gower Emily , Dermen Kurt
Published: August 2016

While substance use is one of the most consistent predictors of poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), few studies among people living with HIV (PLH) have utilized mobile phone-based assessment of these health behaviors. PLH were recruited from primary care clinics to report ART and substance use using a smartphone application (app) for 14 consecutive days. The app’s feasibility as a data collection tool was evaluated quantitatively via surveys and qualitatively via in-depth interviews to assess daily report completion, compliance, and study satisfaction. Overall, 26 participants (M=49.5years, 76% male) completed 95.3% of time-based daily reports. Participants reported high satisfaction with the app and expressed future interest in using smartphones to report daily behaviors. High completion rates and participant acceptability suggest that smartphones are a feasible, acceptable method for collecting substance use and ART data among PLH. Potential areas of concern such as sufficient training and assistance for those with limited smartphone experience should be considered for future app-based research studies among PLH.