bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implication of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR Pathway in the Process of Incompetent Valves in Patients with Chronic Venous Insufficiency and the Relationship with Aging
Authors: Ortega Miguel A. , Asúnsolo Ángel , Leal Javier , Romero Beatriz , Alvarez-Rocha María J. , Sainz Felipe , Álvarez-Mon Melchor , Buján Julia , García-Honduvilla Natalio
Published: July 2018

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a multifactorial disease, commonly caused by valvular incompetence (clinically diagnosed by venous reflux) and venous hypertension. The incidence of these factors clearly increases with patient age, and aging is one of the risk factors involved. The activity of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway is considered fundamental in vascular pathologies, and understanding its involvement would help in the development of possible therapeutic targets. This is an observational, analytical, and prospective cohort study that reviewed 110 patients with CVI scheduled to undergo stratified saphenectomy. They were distributed according to the presence (R = 81) or absence (NR = 29) of valvular incompetence (venous reflux) diagnosed clinically. Each of the groups was further divided according to age, with a cutoff point of 50 years (NR < 50 = 13, NR ≥ 50 = 16, R < 50 = 32, and R ≥ 50 = 49). The involvement of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, as well as that of HIF‐1α and HIF‐2α and of CD4+, CD8+, and CD19+ cells and mastocytes, was assessed. Saphenous vein tissue samples obtained during surgery were processed for RT‐qPCR and immunohistochemistry. Patients with venous reflux showed a significant increase in mRNA and protein expression levels for PI3K/mTOR and HIF‐1α/HIF‐2α. The number of mast cells was significantly elevated in the R group. In distribution by age, PI3K/Akt/mTOR and HIF‐1α were significantly higher in R < 50 patients. Furthermore, these patients had a significant increase in the number of CD4+, CD8+, and CD19+ cells and mastocytes in the saphenous vein wall. These findings provide a basis for the possible existence of changes in PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway expression in young patients, with potential accelerated asynchronous aging that is enhanced by CVI.
Feminizing the Face: Combination of Frontal Bone Reduction and Reduction Rhinoplasty
Authors: Salgado C. J. , AlQattan H. , Nugent A. , Gerth D. , Kassira W. , McGee C. S. , Wo L.
Published: July 2018

Gender affirmation surgeries in male-to-female patient transitioning include breast augmentation, genital construction, and facial feminization surgery (FFS). FFS improves mental health and quality of life in transgender patients. The nose and forehead are critical in facial attractiveness and gender identity; thus, frontal brow reduction and rhinoplasty are a mainstay of FFS. The open approach to reduction of the frontal brow is very successful in the feminization of the face; however, risks include alopecia and scarring. Endoscopic brow reduction, in properly selected patients, is minimally invasive with excellent outcomes avoiding these risks. Since both reduction rhinoplasty and frontal brow reduction are routinely performed in FFS, a combined approach provides superior control over the nasal radix and profile when performing surgery on the frontal bone region first followed by nose reduction. We present a case series of four transwomen undergoing frontal bone reduction in combination with a reduction rhinoplasty. All had excellent results with one DVT that resolved with treatment. Transgender patients frequently require multiple operations during their transition increasing their hospital stay and costs. This combined approach offers superior control over the nasofrontal angle and is not only safe but reduces hospitalizations and costs and is a novel indication to reduce gender dysphoria.
XPS and FT-IR Characterization of Selected Synthetic Corrosion Products of Zinc Expected in Neutral Environment Containing Chloride Ions
Authors: Winiarski Juliusz , Tylus Włodzimierz , Winiarska Katarzyna , Szczygieł Irena , Szczygieł Bogdan
Published: July 2018

ZnO, Zn(OH)2, Zn5(OH)8Cl2·H2O, ZnCO3, and Zn5(CO3)2(OH)6 synthetic powders were prepared by chemical or solid-state method. Their crystalline phase structure, thermal behavior, and morphology were examined. Characteristic infrared absorbance bands were estimated by means of FT-IR ATR spectroscopy. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) allowed to calculate the modified Auger parameters (α ′) thereof to 2010.2, 2009.3, 2009.4, 2009.7, and 2009.8 eV, respectively for ZnO, Zn(OH)2, Zn5(OH)8Cl2·H2O, ZnCO3, and Zn5(CO3)2(OH)6. Finally, comparison of surface composition may be crucial to evaluation of the unknown experimental spectra of corrosion products formed on the surface of zinc alloy coatings exposed in NaCl solution.
A Comparative Evaluation of the Cytotoxic and Antioxidant Activity of Mentha crispa Essential Oil, Its Major Constituent Rotundifolone, and Analogues on Human Glioblastoma
Authors: Turkez Hasan , Tozlu Ozlem Ozdemir , Lima Tamires Cardoso , de Brito Anna Emmanuela Medeiros , de Sousa Damião Pergentino
Published: July 2018

Cancer is a major public health problem around the globe. This disorder is affected by alterations in multiple physiological processes, and oxidative stress has been etiologically implicated in its pathogenesis. Glioblastoma (GBM) is considered the most common and aggressive brain tumor with poor prognosis despite recent improvements in surgical, radiation, and chemotherapy‐based treatment approaches. The purpose of this study was to evaluate antitumor activity from Mentha crispa essential oil (MCEO), its major constituent rotundifolone (ROT), and a series of six analogues on the human U87MG glioblastoma cell line. Cytotoxic effects of the compounds on the human U87MG‐GBM cell line were assessed using in vitro cell viability and oxidative and molecular genetic assays. In addition, biosafety assessment tests were performed on cultured human blood cells. Our findings revealed that MCEO, 1,2‐perillaldehyde epoxide (EPER1), and perillaldehyde (PALD) were the most cytotoxic compounds against U87MG cells, with IC50 values of 16.263, 15.087, and 14.888 μg/mL, respectively. Further, these compounds increased the expressions of BRAF, EGFR, KRAS, NFκB1, NFκB1A, NFκB2, PIK3CA, PIK3R, PTEN, and TP53 genes at different degrees and decreased the expression of some genes such as AKT1, AKT2, FOS, and RAF1. Finally, treatment with MCEO, EPER1, and PALD did not lead to genotoxic damage in blood cells. Taken together, our findings reveal antiproliferative potential of MCEO, its major component ROT, and its tested analogues. Some of these chemical analogues may be useful as prototypes for the development of novel chemotherapeutic agents for treating human brain cancer and/or other cancers due to their promising activities as well as nonmutagenic property and safety.
A Sensor Network with Embedded Data Processing and Data-to-Cloud Capabilities for Vibration-Based Real-Time SHM
Authors: Testoni Nicola , Aguzzi Cristiano , Arditi Valentina , Zonzini Federica , De Marchi Luca , Marzani Alessandro , Cinotti Tullio Salmon
Published: July 2018

This work describes a network of low power/low-cost microelectromechanical- (MEMS-) based three-axial acceleration sensors with local data processing and data-to-cloud capabilities. In particular, the developed sensor nodes are capable to acquire acceleration time series and extract their frequency spectrum peaks, which are autonomously sent through an ad hoc developed gateway device to an online database using a dedicated transfer protocol. The developed network minimizes the power consumption to monitor remotely and in real time the acceleration spectra peaks at each sensor node. An experimental setup in which a network of 5 sensor nodes is used to monitor a simply supported steel beam in free vibration conditions is considered to test the performance of the implemented circuitry. The total weight and energy consumption of the entire network are, respectively, less than 50 g and 300 mW in continuous monitoring conditions. Results show a very good agreement between the measured natural vibration frequencies of the beam and the theoretical values estimated according to the classical closed formula. As such, the proposed monitoring network can be considered ideal for the SHM of civil structures like long-span bridges.
Multichannel Surface EMG Decomposition Based on Measurement Correlation and LMMSE
Authors: Ning Yong , Zhao Yuming , Juraboev Akbarjon , Tan Ping , Ding Jin , He Jinbao
Published: July 2018

A method based on measurement correlation (MC) and linear minimum mean square error (LMMSE) for multichannel surface electromyography (sEMG) signal decomposition was developed in this study. This MC-LMMSE method gradually and iteratively increases the correlation between an optimized vector and a reconstructed matrix that is correlated with the measurement matrix. The performance of the proposed MC-LMMSE method was evaluated with both simulated and experimental sEMG signals. Simulation results show that the MC-LMMSE method can successfully reconstruct up to 53 innervation pulse trains with a true positive rate greater than 95%. The performance of the MC-LMMSE method was also evaluated using experimental sEMG signals collected with a 64-channel electrode array from the first dorsal interosseous muscles of three subjects at different contraction levels. A maximum of 16 motor units were successfully extracted from these multichannel experimental sEMG signals. The performance of the MC-LMMSE method was further evaluated with multichannel experimental sEMG data by using the “two sources” method. The large population of common MUs extracted from the two independent subgroups of sEMG signals demonstrates the reliability of the MC-LMMSE method in multichannel sEMG decomposition.
Domino Hepatocyte Transplantation: A Therapeutic Alternative for the Treatment of Acute Liver Failure
Authors: Cardoso Liana Monteiro da Fonseca , Moreira Lucio Filgueiras Pacheco , Pinto Marcelo Alves , Henriques-Pons Andrea , Alves Luiz Anastácio
Published: July 2018

Background and Aims. Acute liver failure (ALF) is a severe syndrome with an elevated mortality rate, ranging from 40 to 80 %. Currently, liver transplantation is the only definitive treatment for these patients and new therapies aiming to treat ALF include artificial organs implant and stem cells therapy, for example. However, a major limitation of liver donors exists. Living donor liver transplantation (LDL﻿T), split liver transplantation (SLT), and domino liver transplantation (DLT) are some of the available alternatives to treat ALF patients, but these do not reduce the number of patients on waiting lists. Herein, we discuss domino hepatocyte transplantation (DHT) using livers that would not meet transplantation criteria. Methods. We conducted a literature search on PubMed/Medline using acute liver failure, liver transplantation, hepatocyte transplantation, and domino liver transplantation as key words. Results. New sources of biochemically functional hepatocytes and therapeutic treatments, in parallel to organ transplantation, may improve liver injury recovery and decrease mortality rates. Moreover, the literature reports hepatocyte transplantation as a therapeutic alternative for organ shortage. However, a major challenge remains for a wide clinical application of hepatocytes therapy, i.e., the availability of sufficient amounts of cells for transplantation. Ideally, hepatocytes isolated from livers rejected for transplantation may be a promising alternative for this problem. Conclusion. Our review suggests that DHT may be an excellent strategy to increase cell supplies for hepatocyte transplantation.
Effect of Dropping Height on the Forces of Lower Extremity Joints and Muscles during Landing: A Musculoskeletal Modeling
Authors: Niu Wenxin , Wang Lejun , Jiang Chenghua , Zhang Ming
Published: July 2018

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of dropping height on the forces of joints and muscles in lower extremities during landing. A total of 10 adult subjects were required to landing from three different heights (32 cm, 52 cm, and 72 cm), and the ground reaction force and kinematics of lower extremities were measured. Then, the experimental data were input into the AnyBody Modeling System, in which software the musculoskeletal system of each subject was modeled. The reverse dynamic analysis was done to calculate the joint and muscle forces for each landing trial, and the effect of dropping-landing on the results was evaluated. The computational simulation showed that, with increasing of dropping height, the vertical forces of all the hip, knee, and ankle joints, and the forces of rectus femoris, gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, vastii, biceps femoris and adductor magnus were all significantly increased. The increased dropping height also resulted in earlier activation of the iliopsoas, rectus femoris, gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, and soleus, but latter activation of the tibialis anterior. The quantitative joint and muscle forces can be used as loading conditions in finite element analysis to calculate stress and strain and energy absorption processes in various tissues of the lower limbs.
Research on Hierarchical and Distributed Control for Smart Generation Based on Virtual Wolf Pack Strategy
Authors: Xi Lei , Liu Lang , Huang Yuehua , Xu Yanchun , Zhang Yunning
Published: July 2018

Nowadays, haze has become a big trouble in our society. One of the significant solutions is to introduce renewable energy on a large scale. How to ensure that power system can adapt to the integration and consumption of new energy very well has become a scientific issue. A smart generation control which is called hierarchical and distributed control based on virtual wolf pack strategy is explored in this study. The proposed method is based on multiagent system stochastic consensus game principle. Meanwhile, it is also integrated into the new win‐lose judgment criterion and eligibility trace. The simulations, conducted on the modified power system model based on the IEEE two‐area load frequency control and Hubei power grid model in China, demonstrate that the proposed method can obtain the optimal collaborative control of AGC units in a given regional power grid. Compared with some smart methods, the proposed one can improve the closed‐loop system performances and reduce the carbon emission. Meanwhile, a faster convergence speed and stronger robustness are also achieved.
Improvement of Corrosion Behavior of Nanostructured Ni Coating by Jet Electrodeposition and Laser Remelting
Authors: Fan Hui , Zhao Yangpei , Wang Shankui
Published: July 2018

An effective method to improve corrosion resistance for the nickel coating on the stainless steel(1Cr18Ni9) is described. The nickel coating was predeposited on the 1Cr18Ni9 by using the jet electrodeposition technology. Then the laser remelting was conducted on the predeposited Ni coating in order to strengthen the coating’s microstructure and the interface between the substrate and the Ni coating. The experimental results revealed that, at current density of 40 A/dm2, the deposited coating had the optimal corrosion resistance because of refined grains and dense interior-structure. After laser remelting, the bonding state between the coating and substrate evolved to a new metallurgical combination from originally mechanical combination. The corrosion rate comparison indicated that Ni coating with compound process of jet electrodeposition and laser remelting had higher corrosion resistance compared with bare 1Cr18Ni9 as well as jet electrodeposited Ni coating.
Synthesis and Characterization of Nanofiber of Oxidized Cellulose from Nata De Coco
Authors: Kotatha Ditpon , Rungrodnimitchai Supitcha
Published: July 2018

Oxidized cellulose (OC) nanofiber was successfully prepared from the dry sheet of Nata De Coco (DNDC) using the mixture system of HNO3/H3PO4–NaNO2for the first time. The carboxyl content of the OC was investigated at different conditions (HNO3/H3PO4ratios, reaction times, and reaction temperatures). The results revealed that the carboxyl content of the OC increased along with the reaction time, which yielded 0.6, 14.8, 17.5, 20.9, 21.0, and 21.0% after 0, 6, 12, 36, and 48 hours, respectively. The reaction yields of the OC ranged between 79% and 85% when using HNO3/H3PO4ratio of 1 : 3, 1.4% wt of NaNO2at 30°C at different reaction times. From the structural analysis, the OC products showed a nanofibrous structure with a diameter of about 58.3–65.4 nm. The Fourier transform infrared spectra suggested the formation of carboxyl groups in the OC after oxidation reaction. The crystallinity and crystalline index decreased with an increase of reaction time. The decrease of crystallinity from oxidation process agreed with the decrease of degree of polymerization from the hydrolysis ofβ-1,4-glycosidic linkages in the cellulose structure. The thermal gravimetric analysis results revealed that the OC products were less thermally stable than the raw material of DNDC. In addition, the OC products showed blood agglutinating property by dropping blood on the sample along with excellent antibacterial activity.
Macrophage Activation and Functions during Helminth Infection: Recent Advances from the Laboratory Mouse
Authors: Rolot Marion , Dewals Benjamin G.
Published: July 2018

Macrophages are highly plastic innate immune cells that adopt an important diversity of phenotypes in response to environmental cues. Helminth infections induce strong type 2 cell-mediated immune responses, characterized among other things by production of high levels of interleukin- (IL-) 4 and IL-13. Alternative activation of macrophages by IL-4 in vitro was described as an opposite phenotype of classically activated macrophages, but the in vivo reality is much more complex. Their exact activation state as well as the role of these cells and associated molecules in type 2 immune responses remains to be fully understood. We can take advantage of a variety of helminth models available, each of which have their own feature including life cycle, site of infection, or pathological mechanisms influencing macrophage biology. Here, we reviewed the recent advances from the laboratory mouse about macrophage origin, polarization, activation, and effector functions during parasitic helminth infection.
An Extended Generalized q-Extensions for the Apostol Type Polynomials
Authors: Castilla Letelier , Ramírez William , Urieles Alejandro
Published: July 2018

Through a modification on the parameters associated with generating function of the q-extensions for the Apostol type polynomials of order α and level m, we obtain some new results related to a unified presentation of the q-analog of the generalized Apostol type polynomials of order α and level m. In addition, we introduce some algebraic and differential properties for the q-analog of the generalized Apostol type polynomials of order α and level m and the relation of these with the q-Stirling numbers of the second kind, the generalized q-Bernoulli polynomials of level m, the generalized q-Apostol type Bernoulli polynomials, the generalized q-Apostol type Euler polynomials, the generalized q-Apostol type Genocchi polynomials of order α and level m, and the q-Bernstein polynomials.
Cystoisospora belli Gallbladder Infection in a Liver Transplant Donor
Authors: Akateh Clifford , Arnold Christina A. , Benissan-Messan Dathe , Michaels Anthony , Black Sylvester M.
Published: July 2018

Introduction. Cystoisospora belli (previously Isospora belli) is a parasitic protozoan of the human gastrointestinal system. It rarely causes symptoms in immunocompetent hosts but can cause severe diarrhea in immunocompromised patients, with a rate of recurrence and risk of dissemination. Gallbladder infections are however rare. The treatment of choice for symptomatic patients is a 7–10-day course of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Case. In this case, we report on an incidental finding of Cystoisospora belli organisms in the donor gallbladder following a transplant cholecystectomy. There was no report of symptoms in the donor. The recipient was treated with a course of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, without evidence of cystoisosporiasis. Given the risk of recurrence in immunocompromised hosts, the patient will continue to be monitored for reactivation in the future. Conclusion. Despite advances in transplant protocols and screening, disease transmission from the donor to recipient still occurs in about 0.2% of all organ transplants. With the increased use of organs from drug overdose victims and other high-risk donors, practitioners (including pathologists, hepatologists, and surgeons) must maintain a high index of suspicion for such potentially harmful organisms.
Regression Analysis of Bond Parameters between Corroded Rebar and Concrete Based on Reported Test Data
Authors: Zhou H. J. , Zhou Y. F. , Xu Y. N. , Lin Z. Y. , Xing F. , Li L. X.
Published: July 2018

Reinforcement corrosion is a major cause of degradation in reinforced concrete structures. The fragile rust layer and cracking and spalling of the cover caused by splitting stress due to rust expansion can alter bond behaviors significantly. Despite extensive experimental tests, no stochastic model has yet incorporated randomness into the bond parameters model. This paper gathered published experimental data on the bond-slip parameters of pull-out specimens and beam-end specimens. Regression analysis was carried out to identify the best fit of bond strength and the corresponding slip value in the context of different corrosion levels from the recollected test results. An F-test confirmed the regression effect to be significant. Residual data were also analyzed and found to be well described by a normal distribution. Crack width data of the tested specimens were also collected. A regression analysis of the bond strength and maximum crack width was carried out given the comparative simplicity of measuring crack width versus rebar area loss. Results indicate that maximum crack width can also be used to predict bond strength degradation with similar variation magnitude.
Debridement of Bacterial Biofilms with TiO2/H2O2 Solutions and Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Janson Oscar , Strømme Maria , Engqvist Håkan , Welch Ken
Published: July 2018

Objectives. The aim of the study was to explore the debridement efficacy of different solutions of H2O2 and rutile particles against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms attached to titanium surfaces when exposed to visible light. Materials and Methods. Titanium discs cultivated with biofilms of Staphylococcus epidermidis or Pseudomonas aeruginosa were subjected for 1 min to suspensions consisting of rutile particles mixed with high (950 mM) or low (2 mM) concentrations of H2O2 under visible light irradiation (405 nm; 2.1 mW/cm2). Discs were rinsed and the degree of debridement was determined through scanning electron microscopy and viability assessment of the remaining bacteria using luminescence measurements and/or a metabolic activity assay. Results. Cleaning mixtures containing the higher concentration of H2O2 showed a significantly improved debridement compared to the negative control in all experiments. The addition of rutile particles was shown to have a statistically significant effect in one test with S. epidermidis. Limited evidence of the catalytic effect of visible light irradiation was seen, but effects were relatively small and statistically insignificant. Conclusions. H2O2 at a concentration of 950 mM proved to be the strongest contribution to the debridement and bactericidal effect of the cleaning techniques tested in this study.
A ± 1.55ppm Stable FBAR Reference Clock with Oven-Controlled Temperature Compensation
Authors: Koo Jabeom , Sankaragomathi Kannan , Ruby Richard , Otis Brian
Published: July 2018

We present an oven-controlled FBAR oscillator that achieves a frequency stability of +/-1.55ppm from -5°C to 85°C. The highly integrated system includes a 0.64mm2 FBAR chip with integrated heater and sensor resistors and a 3 mm2 CMOS chip with the control electronics. The oscillator achieves an Allen deviation of 4ppb enabled by a temperature-to-digital converter (TDC) with a 150uK resolution. It corresponds to a 1.68JK2 FOM. The heater consumes a power of 14mW at -5°C and the oscillator consumes only 0.25mW. The ovenized oscillator meets the stringent frequency stability requirements (2 ppm) of GPS applications.
Acute Effects of Whole-Body Vibration on Inflammatory Markers in People with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lage Vanessa K. S. , Lacerda Ana Cristina R. , Neves Camila D. C. , Chaves Maria Gabriela A. , Soares Aline A. , Lima Liliana P. , Martins Jeanne B. , Matos Mariana A. , Vieira Érica L. M. , Teixeira Antônio L. , Leite Hércules R. , Oliveira Vinicius Cunha , Mendonça Vanessa A.
Published: July 2018

Whole-body vibration (WBV) has gained prominence in the rehabilitation of individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because it is a safe and low intensity exercise that promises beneficial effects on physical performance and quality of life. However, its effects on plasma cytokine levels in COPD are still unclear. The aim of the current study was to investigate the acute effects of WBV on inflammatory biomarkers in people with COPD. Twenty-six participants, COPD people (n=13) and healthy controls (n=13), were included. Both groups performed WBV at amplitude of 2 mm and frequency of vibration of 35 Hz, during six series of 30 seconds. They were assessed for lung function, body composition, 6-minute walking test (6MWT), handgrip strength test, plasma concentrations of interleukin (IL), IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10, and soluble tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) receptors (sTNFR-1 and sTNFR-2). People with COPD had moderate disease [forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) = 58.1%], as well as a worse performance in the 6MWT. The plasma cytokine profile at rest showed that participants with COPD had higher levels of IL-8 and lower levels of IL-10. After one session of WBV, we found an increased plasma IL-10 level in the COPD group, with similar levels for healthy controls. One session of WBV modified the plasma IL-10 level. No effects were found on the other investigated cytokines.
Conductive Atomic Force Microscopy Study of the Resistive Switching in Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia Films with Au Nanoparticles
Authors: Filatov Dmitry , Kazantseva Inga , Antonov Dmitry , Antonov Ivan , Shenina Maria , Pavlov Dmitry , Gorshkov Oleg
Published: July 2018

We report on the investigation of the resistive switching (RS) in the ultrathin (≈5 nm in thickness) yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) films with single layers of Au nanoparticles (NPs) by conductive atomic force microscopy (CAFM). Besides the butterfly-type hysteresis loops in the current-voltage (I-V) curves of the contact of the CAFM probe to the investigated film surface corresponding to the bipolar RS, the negative differential resistance (NDR) has been observed in the I-V curves of the AFM probe contact to the YSZ films with Au NPs in the conductive (“ON”) state. The NDR has been related to the resonant tunneling of electrons through the size-quantized energy states in the ultrafine (1 to 2 nm in diameter) Au NPs built in the conductive filaments in the YSZ films.
Testing the Key Performance of Mobile Flood Protection System
Authors: Chen Shoukai , Li Huimin , Guo Lei , Wang Lunyan , Cao Yongchao
Published: July 2018

Mobile flood protection systems provide a standardized flood protection method with high reliability. A comprehensive test site for mobile flood wall was established with the support of real applications, which provided opportunities to perform various tests. The anchor plate installation, seepage characteristics, and stress behavior of mobile flood protection systems were investigated through a process test, a water impounding test, and a post loading/unloading test. Test results indicated that installing anchor plates either by direct fixing or by preopened slots and eyes satisfy the construction and normal work requirements. However, the former is preferable over the latter. The mobile flood protection wall leaks when filled with water, and the leakage changes exponentially with the level. The leakage accelerates when the water level exceeds 1.5 m, thus registering 300 L/h at the 1.7 m level. In the post loading test (0–100 kN), concrete plastic deformation was first observed. Then, residual displacement was developed in the posts. The stressing process indicated that the failure process in the post, anchor plate, and base concrete system propagates from the concrete on both sides of the anchor plates toward the water side.
Dog Bites and Rabies in the Eastern Region of Ghana in 2013–2015: A Call for a One-Health Approach
Authors: Adomako Boakye-Yiadom , Baiden Frank , Sackey Samuel , Ameme Donne Kofi , Wurapa Fred , Nyarko Kofi Mensah , Kenu Ernest , Afari Edwin
Published: July 2018

Background. A One-Health approach is advocated to ensure effective rabies surveillance in sub-Saharan Africa. Information is needed to assess the current state of dog bites and rabies in Ghana. We analyzed data on reported events in the Eastern Region of Ghana from 2013 to 2015 to generate information that can be used for rabies elimination in Ghana through the One-Health approach. Method. We extracted data on dog bites and rabies from the database of the regional health service and performed descriptive analysis using Epi Info version 7™. We followed up with interviews with three key informants from the health and veterinary services on issues related to surveillance and data quality. Results. Overall, 4821 dog bites were reported over the three-year period. This translated into an annual incidence of 172 cases per a population of 100,000. Most of cases were in children aged less than 10 yrs. Fifteen (53.3% males) cases of rabies were recorded in seven out of the 26 municipalities and districts, translating into a rabies to dog bite ratio of 3: 1000. The median age of victims was 9 years (range: 3-72 years). A parallel and uncoordinated system of rabies surveillance is maintained by the health and veterinary services, with gross disparities in the number of reported events and overall impression of underreporting. Conclusion. Rabies remains an important cause of preventable deaths in this region. An integrated approach to surveillance based on the One-Health concept needs to be adopted.
Acute Renal Failure due to a Tobramycin and Vancomycin Spacer in Revision Two-Staged Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Patel Ronak A. , Baker Hayden P. , Smith Sara B.
Published: July 2018

Two-stage revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is the standard of care for prosthetic joint infections. The first stage involves removal of the infected prosthesis and placement of an antibiotic impregnated cement spacer; following a period ranging from 4 weeks to 6 months, the spacer is then removed and replaced with a permanent prosthesis. The advantage to this approach is that antibiotic impregnated spacers provide supratherapeutic levels in the joint without toxic accumulation in serum. However, it remains important for physicians and pharmacists to be aware of antibiotic associated complications in knee revisions. We present a case of a two-stage revision total knee arthroplasty in which a cement antibiotic spacer caused acute renal failure and ultimately resulted in persistent chronic kidney disease without hemodialysis at 2 months’ follow-up. Our case reports the third highest serum tobramycin (13.7 mcg/ml) and second highest serum creatinine (8.62 mg/dl) for patients experiencing ARF due to an antibiotic spacer in two-stage revision TKA.
Arsenic Retention on Technosols Prepared with Nanoparticles and Ferric Soil from Mine Drainage Water
Authors: Bolaños-Guerrón Darío R. , Sánchez-Gómez Viviana P. , Paz Johanna , Izquierdo Andrés R. , Stael Carina , Balseiro-Romero María
Published: July 2018

Mining activities generate a large amount of solid waste and acid drains that contain heavy metals in high concentrations. In wastewater of gold mines from Southern Ecuador (Portovelo), arsenic concentrations between 4.8 and 27.5 μg/L have been detected. In this context, the objective of this study is to prepare a technosol, which was used in the capture of arsenic dissolved in the acid drains. Technosol was elaborated using a clay-silty soil (iron-rich soil), collected in the mining area, and iron nanoparticles synthetized with the extract of orange peel. The technosol was experimentally characterized using adsorption isotherms and uptake kinetics. Besides, a mathematical model was developed using Vensim® to scale the process and predict the dynamic behavior of the adsorbent. Results indicate that adsorption behavior of technosol can be fitted to Langmuir isotherms (R2 > 0.9), with 95% of adsorption of As from an input of 4.5 mg/L. The model will be useful to predict the time needed to remedy contaminated water and the duration of the adsorbent (until its saturation).
Computation of the General Relativistic Perihelion Precession and of Light Deflection via the Laplace-Adomian Decomposition Method
Authors: Mak Man Kwong , Leung Chun Sing , Harko Tiberiu
Published: July 2018

We study the equations of motion of the massive and massless particles in the Schwarzschild geometry of general relativity by using the Laplace-Adomian Decomposition Method, which proved to be extremely successful in obtaining series solutions to a wide range of strongly nonlinear differential and integral equations. After introducing a general formalism for the derivation of the equations of motion in arbitrary spherically symmetric static geometries and of the general mathematical formalism of the Laplace-Adomian Decomposition Method, we obtain the series solution of the geodesics equation in the Schwarzschild geometry. The truncated series solution, containing only five terms, can reproduce the exact numerical solution with a high precision. In the first order of approximation we reobtain the standard expression for the perihelion precession. We study in detail the bending angle of light by compact objects in several orders of approximation. The extension of this approach to more general geometries than the Schwarzschild one is also briefly discussed.
Diverse Profiles of Toll-Like Receptors 2, 4, 7, and 9 mRNA in Peripheral Blood and Biopsy Specimens of Patients with Celiac Disease
Authors: Ghasiyari Haniye , Rostami-Nejad Mohammad , Amani Davar , Rostami Kamran , Pourhoseingholi Mohamad Amin , Asadzadeh-Aghdaei Hamid , Zali Mohammad Reza
Published: July 2018

Background and Aims. Both adaptive and innate immunity are involved in the development of celiac disease (CD). Altered Toll-like receptors (TLR) expression and activation may be partially responsible for the inflammation and subsequently crypt hyperplasia, but the main driver for inflammation is gliadin-reactive T-cells. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the TLRs 2, 4, 7, and 9 gene expressions in both peripheral blood and intestinal mucosa of patients with celiac disease compared to healthy control (HC). Material and Methods. Blood samples from 120 confirmed active CD patients and 120 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers served as control group were collected during 2015-2016. Also, 20 biopsy specimens from the study group were randomly collected. Total RNA was isolated using a standard commercial kit. The mRNA expression of TLRs was quantified by relative qPCR with β2 microglobulin (β2m) as a reference gene. Results. TLR4 (P=0.01) and TLR9 (P=0.02) mRNA were significantly elevated in blood samples from CD patients compared to the healthy controls. Moreover, TLR2 (P=0.03) and TLR4 (P=0.0003) expression level was increased in CD biopsy specimens compared to controls, whereas expression of TLR9 mRNA was significantly decreased in CD patients. There was no significant difference in the expression of TLR7 in biopsy and blood specimens. Conclusions. The alteration of TLR4 and TLR9 expression in the blood and biopsy samples of patients with CD supports the critical role of the innate immune system in the pathogenesis of this disease. Upregulation of TLR4 and TLR9 suggests the contribution of gut microbiota or dysregulation of the immune response to commensal flora in small bowel mucosa in celiac patients.
Efficacy of Self-Directed Learning in the Supracondylar Fracture Performance Improvement Module at an Academic Pediatric Orthopedic Institution
Authors: Edmonds Eric W. , Kemppainen John W. , Roocroft Joanna H. , Munch John , Bastrom Tracey P.
Published: July 2018

Maintenance of certification (MOC) within a medical society requires continuing medical education that demonstrates life-long learning, cognitive expertise, and practice-based self-assessment. This prospective study sought to evaluate whether a self-directed Practice Improvement Module (PIM) would improve pediatric orthopedic patient outcomes, thus demonstrating evidence of life-long learning (Part II MOC credit) in treating supracondylar humerus fractures. Six surgeons and 113 patients were included. There was no significant difference in actual fracture outcome before or after PIM at any level of surgeon experience regarding radiographic appearance or need for reoperation (p>0.10). Junior staff demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the percentage of time that marking the operative site was documented in the chart by the surgeon before (38%) and after (65%) PIM (p=0.02). The self-directed education portion of the supracondylar fracture PIM led to modest improvement in documentation habits among junior staff, without impact on overall patient outcomes. Therefore, the PIM appears to be less useful in providing evidence for life-long learning as it relates to surgical outcomes (Part II MOC/CME), yet, it may directly benefit practice-based self-assessment (Part IV MOC), and the self-assessment and Personal Improvement Plan may be the most important portion of the PIM to improve outcomes.
Research Priorities and Resource Allocation in the Investigation of New Drugs for Cancer in Least Developed Countries
Authors: Silva Ricardo Eccard da , Amato Angélica Amorim , Andrade Débora Dornelas Belchior Costa , Leite e Silva Alessandra Vanessa , Carvalho Marta Rodrigues de , Novaes Maria Rita Carvalho Garbi
Published: July 2018

Cancer incidence has increased significantly in low- and middle-income countries. The priorities of international health research are not always aligned with the global burden of cancer. This study aims to analyze global tendencies in clinical trials in oncology and discuss research priorities and resource allocation in the investigation of new drugs for cancers that significantly affect the least developed countries. This was a retrospective and analytical study that included data collected from the World Health Organization’s International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) in 2014. According to our results, there was a tendency for clinical trials involving breast and lung cancer to be conducted in countries with a lower level of economic development. On the other hand, cervical, stomach, and liver cancer, despite the significant burden that these place on middle- and low-income countries, were studied little among the countries selected. In conclusion, the organizations that most fund research to develop new drugs for cancer treatment continue to show little interest in prioritizing resources to fund research for certain types of cancer such as those of the cervix, stomach, and liver, which have a significant impact in low- and middle-income countries.
Simultaneous Determination of the Space-Dependent Source and the Initial Distribution in a Heat Equation by Regularizing Fourier Coefficients of the Given Measurements
Authors: Qiu Shufang , Zhang Wen , Peng Jianmei
Published: July 2018

We consider an inverse problem for simultaneously determining the space-dependent source and the initial distribution in heat conduction equation. First, we study the ill-posedness of the inverse problem. Then, we construct a regularization problem to approximate the originally inverse problem and obtain the regularization solutions with their stability and convergence results. Furthermore, convergence rates of the regularized solutions are presented under a prior and a posteriori strategies for selecting regularization parameters. Results of numerical examples show that the proposed regularization method is stable and effective for the considered inverse problem.
Detection of Adulterated Honey by Fluorescence Excitation-Emission Matrices
Authors: Dramićanin Tatjana , Lenhardt Acković Lea , Zeković Ivana , Dramićanin Miroslav D.
Published: July 2018

Honey is a frequent target of adulteration through inappropriate production practices and origin mislabelling. Current methods for the detection of adulterated honey are time and labor consuming, require highly skilled personnel, and lengthy sample preparation. Fluorescence spectroscopy overcomes such drawbacks, as it is fast and noncontact and requires minimal sample preparation. In this paper, the application of fluorescence spectroscopy coupled with statistical tools for the detection of adulterated honey is demonstrated. For this purpose, fluorescence excitation-emission matrices were measured for 99 samples of different types of natural honey and 15 adulterated honey samples (in 3 technical replicas for each sample). Statistical t-test showed that significant differences between fluorescence of natural and adulterated honey samples exist in 5 spectral regions: (1) excitation: 240–265 nm, emission: 370–495 nm; (2) excitation: 280–320 nm, emission: 390–470 nm; (3) excitation: 260–285 nm, emission: 320–370 nm; (4) excitation: 310–360 nm, emission: 370–470 nm; and (5) excitation: 375–435 nm, emission: 440–520 nm, in which majority of fluorescence comes from the aromatic amino acids, phenolic compounds, and fluorescent Maillard reaction products. Principal component analysis confirmed these findings and showed that 90% of variance in fluorescence is accumulated in the first two principal components, which can be used for the discrimination of fake honey samples. The classification of honey from fluorescence data is demonstrated with a linear discriminant analysis (LDA). When subjected to LDA, total fluorescence intensities of selected spectral regions provided classification of honey (natural or adulterated) with 100% accuracy. In addition, it is demonstrated that intensities of honey emissions in each of these spectral regions may serve as criteria for the discrimination between natural and fake honey.
Influence of Structural Plane Microscopic Parameters on Direct Shear Strength
Authors: Cheng Yanhui , Yang Weijun , He Dongliang
Published: July 2018

Structural plane is a key factor in controlling the stability of rock mass engineering. To study the influence of structural plane microscopic parameters on direct shear strength, this paper established the direct shear mechanical model of the structural plane by using the discrete element code PFC2D. From the mesoscopic perspective, the research on the direct shear test for structural plane has been conducted. The bonding strength and friction coefficient of the structural plane are investigated, and the effect of mesoscopic parameters on the shear mechanical behavior of the structural plane has been analyzed. The results show that the internal friction angle φ of the structural plane decreases with the increase of particle contact stiffness ratio. However, the change range of cohesion is small. The internal friction angle decreases first and then increases with the increase of parallel bond stiffness ratio. The influence of particle contact modulus EC on cohesion c is relatively small. The internal friction angle obtained by the direct shear test is larger than that obtained by the triaxial compression test. Parallel bond elastic modulus has a stronger impact on friction angle φ than that on cohesion c. Under the same normal stress conditions, the shear strength of the specimens increases with particle size. The shear strength of the specimen gradually decreases with the increase of the particle size ratio.
Response of Sesame to Selected Herbicides Applied Early in the Growing Season
Authors: Grichar W. James , Rose Jack J. , Dotray Peter A. , Baughman Todd A. , Langham D. Ray , Werner Kaisa , Bagavathiannan Muthu
Published: July 2018

Growth chamber experiments were conducted to evaluate the response of sesame to PRE and POST applications of soil residual herbicides. PRE applications of acetochlor andS-metolachlor at 1.26 and 1.43 kg ai·ha−1showed little or no sesame injury (0 to 1%) 4 wks after herbicide treatments (WAT). POST treatments of acetochlor and trifluralin made 3 wks after planting (WAP) resulted in greater sesame injury (40%) compared to applications at bloom (18%). Field studies were conducted in Texas and Oklahoma during the 2014 and 2015 growing seasons to determine sesame response to clethodim, diuron, fluometuron, ethalfluralin, quizalofop-P, pendimethalin, pyroxasulfone, trifluralin, and trifloxysulfuron-sodium applied 2, 3, or 4 weeks after planting (WAP). Late-season sesame injury with the dinitroaniline herbicides consisted of a proliferation of primary branching at the upper nodes of the sesame plant (in the shape/form of a broom). Ethalfluralin and trifluralin caused more “brooming” effect than pendimethalin. Some yield reductions were noted with the dinitroaniline herbicides. Trifloxysulfuron-sodium caused the greatest injury (up to 97%) and resulted in yield reductions from the untreated check. Early-season diuron injury (leaf chlorosis and necrosis) decreased as application timing was delayed, and late-season injury was virtually nonexistent with only slight chlorosis (<4%) still apparent on the lower leaves. Sesame yield was not consistently affected by the diuron treatments. Fluometuron caused early-season injury (stunting/chlorosis), and a reduction of yield was observed at one location. Pyroxasulfone applied 2 WAP caused up to 25% sesame injury (stunting) but did not result in a yield reduction. Quizalofop-P caused slight injury (<5%) and no reduction in yield.
Dynamics of Genome Alterations in Crohn's Disease–Associated Colorectal Carcinogenesis
Authors: Hirsch Daniela , Wangsa Darawalee , Zhu Yuelin J. , Hu Yue , Edelman Daniel C. , Meltzer Paul S. , Heselmeyer-Haddad Kerstin , Ott Claudia , Kienle Peter , Galata Christian , Horisberger Karoline , Ried Thomas , Gaiser Timo
Published: July 2018

Purpose: Patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, that is, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease (CD), face an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC). Evidence, mainly from ulcerative colitis, suggests that TP53 mutations represent an initial step in the progression from inflamed colonic epithelium to CRC. However, the pathways involved in the evolution of CRC in patients with CD are poorly characterized.

Experimental Design: Here, we analyzed 73 tissue samples from 28 patients with CD-CRC, including precursor lesions, by targeted next-generation sequencing of 563 cancer-related genes and array-based comparative genomic hybridization. The results were compared with 24 sporadic CRCs with similar histomorphology (i.e., mucinous adenocarcinomas), and to The Cancer Genome Atlas data (TCGA).

Results: CD-CRCs showed somatic copy-number alterations (SCNAs) similar to sporadic CRCs with one notable exception: the gain of 5p was significantly more prevalent in CD-CRCs. CD-CRCs had a distinct mutation signature: TP53 (76% in CD-CRCs vs. 33% in sporadic mucinous CRCs), KRAS (24% vs. 50%), APC (17% vs. 75%), and SMAD3 (3% vs. 29%). TP53 mutations and SCNAs were early and frequent events in CD progression, while APC, KRAS, and SMAD2/4 mutations occurred later. In four patients with CD-CRC, at least one mutation and/or SCNAs were already present in non-dysplastic colonic mucosa, indicating occult tumor evolution.

Conclusions: Molecular profiling of CD-CRCs and precursor lesions revealed an inflammation-associated landscape of genome alterations: 5p gains and TP53 mutations occurred early in tumor development. Detection of these aberrations in precursor lesions may help predicting disease progression and distinguishes CD-associated from sporadic colorectal neoplasia. Clin Cancer Res; 24(20); 4997–5011. ©2018 AACR.