bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alkaline extracellular conditions promote the proliferation and mineralization of a human cementoblast cell line
Authors: Muramatsu T. , Kashiwagi S. , Ishizuka H. , Matsuura Y. , Furusawa M. , Kimura M. , Shibukawa Y.
Published: November 2018

Aim

To investigate the proliferation and mineralization of a human cementoblast cell line under alkaline conditions.

Methodology

A human cementoblast cell line was cultured in alkaline media with several pHs (pH 7.6, 8.0 and 8.4) without CO2. Cell numbers, phospho‐p44/42 expression, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineralization were evaluated. The significance of differences between groups was assessed using two‐way analysis of variance 15 (ANOVA) followed by Bonferroni's multiple comparison test (α = 0.01).

Results

Cell numbers increased in a time‐dependent manner in the high pH medium groups. Western blot analysis revealed the upregulated expression of phospho‐p44/42 under alkaline conditions. ALP activity was also increased at pH 8.0 and 8.4. Alizarin red staining revealed increased mineralization in the high pH medium groups. The incorporation of the transient receptor potential ankyrin subfamily member 1 (TRPA1) antagonist HC030031 markedly negated the effect on proliferation and mineralization.

Conclusions

Extracellular alkaline conditions promoted the proliferation and mineralization of human cementoblasts in vitro via TRPA1.
Structure development and dielectric properties of Zn‐doped Pb([Mg,Fe],W)O3 perovskite ceramics
Authors: Lee Woo‐Joon , Kim Nam‐Kyoung
Published: November 2018

Ceramic samples of a pseudo‐binary system Pb(Mg1/2W1/2)O3‐Pb(Fe2/3W1/3)O3 (PMW‐PFW) were prepared by solid‐state reaction. In addition, their compositions were modified by 20 mol% Pb(Zn1/2W1/2)O3 (PZW) doping in order to investigate the role of zinc in the perovskite formation and dielectric properties. The perovskite contents were ≥95.1% at the overall composition range, except for a significantly low value of 79.0% at 0.8PFW‐0.2PZW. The extension of sintering time for PMW accelerated superstructure formation, resulting in the ordering factor increased up to 0.40 after 12 hours heat treatment. The maximum dielectric constant values increased with increasing PFW fractions. In comparison, the phase transition temperatures decreased sharply (by up to 161°C) at low concentrations of PFW, followed by mild changes (by up to 47°C) afterward. The dielectric constant spectra were analyzed in terms of diffuseness characteristics, which reflected the phase transition modes quite well.
Applying core theory and spatial analysis to identify hepatitis C virus infection “core areas” in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Butt Zahid A. , Mak Sunny , Gesink Dionne , Gilbert Mark , Wong Jason , Yu Amanda , Wong Stanley , Alvarez Maria , Chong Mei , Buxton Jane , Tyndall Mark , Krajden Mel , Janjua Naveed Z.
Published: November 2018

“Core areas” of transmission for bacterial sexually transmitted infections have been identified. However, it is unclear whether core areas apply to viral infections, such as hepatitis C virus (HCV). We used geographic mapping and spatial analysis to identify distinct core areas of HCV infection in British Columbia (BC) using the BC Hepatitis Testers Cohort (BC‐HTC), 1990‐2013. The BC‐HTC includes all BC residents tested for HCV (~1.5 million; 1990‐2013). Core HCV infection areas were identified spatially and temporally for five time periods (1990‐1993, 1994‐1998, 1999‐2003, 2004‐2008 and 2009‐2013) through thematic mapping, Kernel Density Estimation, Hotspot analysis and cluster analysis at the Census dissemination area level in ArcGIS and SatScan. HCV infection core areas were consistently identified. HCV core areas expanded from the downtown of major cities in different regions of BC (Metro Vancouver, Vancouver Island, and Northern BC; 1990‐1998), to smaller cities in Metro Vancouver and Interior BC (2000 onwards). Statistically significant clusters, or hotspots, were also observed for downtown Vancouver, Northern BC (Prince George) and Vancouver Island from 1990 to 2008 with expansion to other urban areas in Metro Vancouver from 1990‐2013. Statistically significant clusters persisted after adjustment for injection drug use, number of HCV tests, age, sex, material and social deprivation. Persistence of areas with high HCV diagnoses rates in Vancouver and Prince George supports the theory of core areas of HCV transmission. Identification of core areas can inform prevention, care and treatment programme interventions and evaluate their impact over time.
DNA damage and reactive oxygen species cause cell death in the rice local lesions 1 mutant under high light and high temperature
Authors: Qiu Zhennan , Zhu Li , He Lei , Chen Dongdong , Zeng Dali , Chen Guang , Hu Jiang , Zhang Guangheng , Ren Deyong , Dong Guojun , Gao Zhenyu , Shen Lan , Zhang Qiang , Guo Longbiao , Qian Qian
Published: November 2018

High light and high temperature (HLHT) stress may become more frequent and severe as the climate changes, affecting crop growth and resulting in reduced production. However, the mechanism of the response to HLHT stress in rice is not yet fully understood.

In the present study, we screened a rice mutant library using HLHT conditions and isolated an HLHT‐sensitive mutant, local lesions 1 (ls1), which showed decreased pigment contents, defective stomata and chloroplasts, and a local lesions phenotype under HLHT.

We characterized and cloned LS1 by map‐based cloning and genetic complementation. LS1 encodes the A subunit of the RNase H2 complex (RNASEH2A). Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick‐end labeling (TUNEL) and comet assays indicated that mutation of LS1 led to severe DNA damage under HLHT stress. Furthermore, we found excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in the ls1 mutant under HLHT stress. Exogenous antioxidants eased the local lesions phenotype of the ls1 mutant under HLHT. DNA damage caused by HLHT stress induces ROS accumulation, which causes the injury and apoptosis of leaf cells in the ls1 mutant.

These results enhance our understanding of the regulatory mechanism in the response to HLHT stress in higher plants.
Three‐dimensional prediction of roots position through cone‐beam computed tomography scans‐digital model superimposition: A novel method
Authors: Staderini Edoardo , Guglielmi Federica , Cornelis Marie A. , Cattaneo Paolo M.
Published: November 2018

Structured Abstract

Objectives

To introduce a new, fast, reliable, and free from software‐related bias method to predict three‐dimensionally the root position and angulation during and after orthodontic treatment. The final goal is to keep to a minimum the use of ionizing radiation by eliminating the necessity of multiple radiation exposure for checking root alignment.

Setting and Sample Population

Pre‐ and post‐treatment digital models and cone‐beam computed tomographic (CBCT) scans from a patient were retrieved.

Material and Methods

The post‐treatment digital model (post‐model) was set as the reference; pre‐ and post‐treatment CBCT scans were pre‐aligned to the post‐model with a point set registration; iterative closest point algorithm was then employed for final adjustments. The accuracy of the proposed method was assessed by comparing the average distance between the expected root position setup with the true position of the roots, as from the post‐treatment CBCT.

Results

After crown superimposition, 3D colour maps showed that the accuracy of the root prediction was below 0.1 mm.

Conclusion

The proposed digital workflow allows to predict in an accurate and truly three‐dimensional way the final position of roots, when an initial CBCT is available, without the need of an extra X‐ray examination for the patient at the end of treatment. The limitation of the exposure to mid‐ and post‐treatment X‐rays is in accordance with the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle and it is even more relevant in growing patients.
Characterization of chylomicron in preterm infants
Authors: Seimiya Ayako , Okada Tomoo , Nagano Nobuhiko , Hosono Shigeharu , Takahashi Shigeru , Takahashi Shori
Published: November 2018

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the chylomicron fraction of preterm infants at birth and during the early postnatal period.

Methods

The subjects consisted of 133 infants (81 boys and 52 girls): 74 were term infants born at 37–41 weeks of gestation and 59 were preterm infants born at 29–36 weeks of gestation. Cholesterol and triglyceride in the chylomicron fraction were measured using high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results

Compared with term infants, preterm infants had higher cholesterol and lower triglyceride in the chylomicron fraction, both in cord blood and at 1 month after birth. Thus, the chylomicron triglyceride/cholesterol ratio was significantly lower in preterm infants than in term infants in cord blood and at 1 month of age. On single regression analysis the chylomicron triglyceride/cholesterol ratio correlated positively with gestational age at birth (r = 0.331, P = 0.0003) and at 1 month (r = 0.221, P = 0.0119).

Conclusions

Preterm infants have a less‐lipidated chylomicron composition at birth and at 1 month of age. Some prenatal factors may persist to influence chylomicron lipidation during the early postnatal period.
High macrophage activities are associated with advanced periductal fibrosis in chronic Opisthorchis viverrini infection
Authors: Salao Kanin , Watakulsin Krongkarn , Mairiang Eimorn , Suttiprapa Sutas , Tangkawattana Sirikachorn , Edwards Steven W. , Sripa Banchob
Published: November 2018

Liver fluke infection caused by Opisthorchis viverrini induces several hepatobiliary conditions including advanced periductal fibrosis (APF) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), but >25% of the infected population develops APF and 1% develop CCA. The innate immune response is the first line of defence, and macrophages are critical regulators of fibrosis. We hypothesized that macrophages from infected individuals have different capacities to either promote or suppress periductal fibrosis. We compared phagocytic activities of macrophages of healthy individuals and O viverrini‐infected individuals ± APF, and found that macrophages from infected individuals with APF ingested significantly higher numbers of beads compared with healthy controls and O viverrini‐infected individuals without APF. To further investigate proteolytic activity, we monitored real‐time phagosomal proteolysis of beads conjugated to DQ‐BODIPY‐BSA using live cell imaging. We show that macrophages from O viverrini‐infected individuals with APF also have elevated phagosomal proteolysis activity, which is consistent with their increased phagocytic activity. Additionally, stimulated ROS production by blood monocytes was higher in individuals with APF compared with healthy controls and infected individuals without APF. These results suggest that during O viverrini infection, macrophages with high phagocytic and proteolytic activities together with elevated ROS production are the phenotypes that can promote tissue damage, which results in periductal fibrosis.
Accumulation patterns of endogenous β‐aminobutyric acid during plant development and defence in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Balmer A. , Glauser G. , Mauch‐Mani B. , Baccelli I.
Published: November 2018

We recently discovered that β‐aminobutyric acid (BABA), a molecule known for its ability to prime defences in plants, is a natural plant metabolite. However, the role played by endogenous BABA in plants is currently unknown. In this study we investigated the systemic accumulation of BABA during pathogen infection, levels of BABA during plant growth and development and analysed mutants possibly involved in BABA transport or regulation.

BABA was quantified by LC‐MS using an improved method adapted from a previously published protocol. Systemic accumulation of BABA was determined by analysing non‐infected leaves and roots after localised infections with Plectosphaerella cucumerina or Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst) DC3000 avrRpt2. The levels of BABA were also quantified in different plant tissues and organs during normal plant growth, and in leaves during senescence. Mutants affecting amino acid transport (aap6, aap3, prot1 and gat1), γ‐aminobutyric acid levels (pop2) and senescence/defence (cpr5‐2) were analysed.

BABA was found to accumulate only locally after bacterial or fungal infection, with no detectable increase in non‐infected systemic plant parts. In leaves, BABA content increased during natural and induced senescence. Reproductive organs had the highest levels of BABA, and the mutant cpr5‐2 produced constitutively high levels of BABA.

Synthetic BABA is highly mobile in the receiving plant, whereas endogenous BABA appears to be produced and accumulated locally in a tissue‐specific way. We discuss a possible role for BABA in age‐related resistance and propose a comprehensive model for endogenous and synthetic BABA.
Phylogeny of Mesoamerican freshwater mussels and a revised tribe‐level classification of the Ambleminae
Authors: Pfeiffer John M. , Atkinson Carla L. , Sharpe Ashley E. , Capps Krista A. , Emery Kitty F. , Page Lawrence M.
Published: November 2018

Evolutionary and ecological hypotheses of the freshwater mussel subfamily Ambleminae are intensely geographically biased—a consequence of the complete exclusion of Mesoamerican taxa in phylogenetic reconstructions of the clade. We set out to integrate a portion of the Mesoamerican freshwater mussel assemblage into existing hypotheses of amblemine classification and evolution by generating a molecular phylogeny that includes four previously unsampled Mesoamerican genera and nine species endemic to that region. Given the traditionally hypothesized affinity to Nearctic mussels and the understanding that classification should reflect common ancestry, we predicted that (a) Mesoamerican genera would be recovered as members of the recognized tribes of the Ambleminae, and (b) genera would be supported as monophyletic. The mutilocus phylogeny (COI + 28S + 16S) reported herein does not fully support either of those hypotheses. NeitherCyrtonaiasnorPsorulawere supported as monophyletic and we predict several other Mesoamerica genera are also non‐monophyletic. The reconstructed phylogeny recovered four independent lineages of Mesoamerican freshwater mussels and these clades are distributed across the phylogeny of the Ambleminae, including the tribe Quadrulini (Megalonaias), Lampsilini (two lineages:Cyrtonaias explicata/Sphenonaias microdon, andPachynaias), and a previously unrecognized, exclusively Mesoamerican and Rio Grande clade consisting of the generaPsoronaias,PsorulaandPopenaias. The latter clade possesses several morphological characteristics that distinguish it from its sister taxon, tribe Lampsilini, and we recognize this newly identified Mesoamerican clade as a fifth tribe of the Ambleminae attributable to the Popenaiadini Heard & Guckert, 1970. This revised classification more completely recognizes the suprageneric diversity of the Ambleminae.
How to implement new diagnostic products in low-resource settings: an end-to-end framework
Authors: Mugambi Melissa Latigo , Peter Trevor , F Martins Samuel , Giachetti Cristina
Published: November 2018

Diagnostics developers often face challenges introducing in-vitro diagnostic (IVD) products to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) because of difficulty in accessing robust market data, navigating policy and regulatory requirements and implementing and supporting products in healthcare systems with limited infrastructure. Best practices recommend the use of a phase-gate model with defined activities and milestones by phase to successfully move a product from concept to commercialisation. While activities for commercialisation of products in high-income countries (HICs) are well understood, the activities required for introduction of IVDs in LMICs are not. In this paper, we identify the key activities needed for IVD product development and implementation and map them to the various phases of the model, paying particular attention to those activities that might be conducted differently in LMICs.
The monotone catenary degree of monoids of ideals
Authors: Geroldinger Alfred , Reinhart Andreas
Published: November 2018

Factoring ideals in integral domains is a central topic in multiplicative ideal theory. In the present paper, we study monoids of ideals and consider factorizations of ideals into multiplicatively irreducible ideals. The focus is on the monoid of nonzero divisorial ideals and on the monoid of [Formula: see text]-invertible divisorial ideals in weakly Krull Mori domains. Under suitable algebraic finiteness conditions, we establish arithmetical finiteness results, in particular, for the monotone catenary degree and for the structure of sets of lengths and of their unions.
Classical and quantum equations of motion of a 4-dimensional Schwarzschild–AdS and Reissner–Nordström–AdS black hole
Authors: Greenwood Eric
Published: November 2018

We investigate the gravitational collapse of both a massive (Schwarzschild–AdS) and a massive-charged (Reissner–Nordström–AdS) 4-dimensional domain wall in AdS space. Here, we consider both the classical and quantum collapse, in the absence of quasi-particle production and backreaction.

For the massive case, we show that, as far as the asymptotic observer is concerned, the collapse takes an infinite amount of time to occur in both the classical and quantum cases. Hence, quantizing the domain wall does not lead to the formation of the black hole in a finite amount of time. For the infalling observer, we find that the domain wall collapses to both the event horizon and the classical singularity in a finite amount of proper time. In the region of the classical singularity, however, the wave function exhibits both nonlocal and nonsingular effects.

For the massive-charged case, we show that, as far as the asymptotic observer is concerned, the details of the collapse depend on the amount of charge present; that is, the extremal, nonextremal and overcharged cases. In the overcharged case, the collapse never fully occurs since the solution is an oscillatory solution which prevents the formation of a naked singularity. For the extremal and nonextremal cases, it takes an infinite amount of time for the outer horizon to form. For the infalling observer in the nonextremal case, we find that the domain wall collapses to both the event horizon and the classical singularity in a finite amount of proper time. In the region of the classical singularity, the wave function also exhibits both nonlocal and nonsingular effects. Furthermore, in the large energy density limit, the wave function vanishes as the domain wall approaches classical singularity implying that the quantization does not rid the black hole of its singular nature.
The EFFECTS OF CUSTOMER CAPITAL ON CUSTOMER RESPONSE SPEED AND INNOVATIVENESS: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF MARKETING CAPABILITY
Authors: JAHANSHAHI ASGHAR AFSHAR , NAWASER KHALED , BREM ALEXANDER
Published: November 2018

Customer capital has attracted a great deal of attention among marketing scholars in recent years. This study explores at first the links between customer capital with firm innovativeness (i.e., the ability to generate new ideas and actions within firms) and customer response speed (i.e., the ability to respond to the customers’ needs immediately). Furthermore, it is analysed how firms’ marketing capability mediates these relationships. For this, a unique environment in post-sanctions Iran is chosen. By using the original survey data from 107 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), our results confirm that durable relationships that a company builds with its customers over the time enhance the market information within firms. This, in turn, enables firms to respond faster to market changes with innovative products and services. Furthermore, the lifetime relationship with the customers enhances the awareness of firms about customers’ needs and demands in a timely manner. Accordingly, it accelerates the process of responding the customers’ requirements before competitors can catch up.
Severe Metabolic Acidemia in a Patient with Aleukemic Leukemia
Authors: Ghrewati Moutaz , Manji Faiza , Modi Varun , Chandran Chandra , Maroules Michael
Published: November 2018

Malignancy associated lactic acidosis is a rare metabolic complication that may accompany various types of malignancies. To date, most cases that have been reported are associated with hematologic malignancies (lymphoma and leukemia). Many theories have been proposed to explain the pathophysiology of lactic acidosis in malignancies. We are reporting an unusual case of a 62-year-old female who presented with a complaint of generalized weakness. Patient was found to have pancytopenia and metabolic acidosis with an anion gap secondary to lactic acid in addition to non-anion gap acidosis (NAGA). The lactic acidosis resolved only after initiation of chemotherapy as she was diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Our patient also had a coexistent Renal Tubular Acidosis (RTA) with large kidneys. The kidney size also decreased with chemotherapy. Our case is unique as evidenced by aleukemic leukemia combined with anion gap acidosis and non-anion gap acidosis. Lactic acidosis has many different causes; although rare, hematologic malignancies should be included in the differential diagnosis regardless of cell counts or tumor burden.
Colquhounia Root Tablet Protects Rat Pulmonary Microvascular Endothelial Cells against TNF‐α‐Induced Injury by Upregulating the Expression of Tight Junction Proteins Claudin‐5 and ZO‐1
Authors: Zhou Wenjie , Shi Guocui , Bai Jijia , Ma Shenmao , Liu Qinfu , Ma Xigang
Published: November 2018

Background. There are currently limited effective pharmacotherapy agents for acute lung injury (ALI). Inflammatory response in the lungs is the main pathophysiological process of ALI. Our preliminary data have shown that colquhounia root tablet (CRT), a natural herbal medicine, alleviates the pulmonary inflammatory responses and edema in a rat model with oleic acid‐induced ALI. However, the potential molecular action mechanisms underlining its protective effects against ALI are poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanism of CRT in rat pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMEC) with TNF‐α‐induced injury. Methods. PMECs were divided into 6 groups: normal control, TNF‐α (10 ng/mL TNF‐α), Dex (1×10−6 M Dex + 10 ng/mL TNF‐α), CRT high (1000 ng/mL CRT + 10 ng/mL TNF‐α), CRT medium (500 ng/mL CRT + 10 ng/mL TNF‐α), and CRT low group (250 ng/mL CRT + 10 ng/mL TNF‐α). Cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected by MTT assay and flow cytometry. Cell micromorphology was observed under transmission electron microscope. The localization and expression of tight junction proteins Claudin‐5 and ZO‐1 were analyzed by immunofluorescence staining and Western blot, respectively. Results. TNF‐a had successfully induced an acute endothelial cell injury model. Dex and CRT treatments had significantly stimulated the growth and reduced the apoptosis of PMECs (all p < 0.05 or 0.01) and alleviated the TNF‐α‐induced cell injury. The expression of Claudin‐5 and ZO‐1 in Dex and all 3 CRT groups was markedly increased compared with TNF‐a group (all p < 0.05 or 0.01). Conclusion. CRT effectively protects PMECs from TNF‐α‐induced injury, which might be mediated via stabilizing the structure of tight junction. CRT might be a promising, effective, and safe therapeutic agent for the treatment of ALI.
Review of Echocardiographic Findings in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Sascău Radu , Zota Ioana Mădălina , Stătescu Cristian , Boișteanu Daniela , Roca Mihai , Maștaleru Alexandra , Leon Constantin Maria Magdalena , Vasilcu Teodor Flaviu , Gavril Radu Sebastian , Mitu Florin
Published: November 2018

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes recurrent apneas due to upper respiratory tract collapse, leading to sympathetic nervous system hyperactivation and increased cardiovascular risk. Moderate and severe forms of obstructive sleep apnea are associated with increased atrial volumes and affect left ventricular diastolic and then systolic function. Right ventricular ejection fraction can be accurately assessed via three-dimensional echocardiography, while bidimensional imaging can only provide a set of surrogate parameters to characterize systolic function (tricuspid annulus plane systolic excursion, right ventricular fractional area change, and lateral S’). Tissue Doppler imaging is a more sensitive tool in detecting functional ventricular impairment, but its use is limited by angle dependence and the unwanted influence of tethering forces. Two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography is considered more suitable for the assessment of ventricular function, as it is able to distinguish between active and passive wall motion. Abnormal strain values, a marker of subclinical myocardial dysfunction, can be detected even in patients with normal ejection fraction and chamber volumes. The left ventricular longitudinal strain is more affected by the presence of obstructive sleep apnea than circumferential strain values. Although the observed OSA-induced changes are subtle, the benefit of a detailed echocardiographic screening for subclinical heart failure in OSA patients on therapy adherence and outcome should be addressed by further studies.
Movement Velocity and Fluidity Improve after Armeo®Spring Rehabilitation in Children Affected by Acquired and Congenital Brain Diseases: An Observational Study
Authors: Biffi Emilia , Maghini Cristina , Cairo Beatrice , Beretta Elena , Peri Elisabetta , Altomonte Daniele , Mazzoli Davide , Giacobbi Meris , Prati Paolo , Merlo Andrea , Strazzer Sandra
Published: November 2018

Background. Children with cerebral palsy (CP) and acquired brain injury (ABI) often exhibit upper limb impairment, with repercussions in their daily activities. Robotic rehabilitation may promote their functional recovery, but evidence of its effectiveness is often based on qualitative functional scales. The primary aim of the present work was to assess movement precision, velocity, and smoothness using numerical indices from the endpoint trajectory of Armeo®Spring. Secondly, an investigation of the effectiveness of robotic rehabilitation in CP and ABI children was performed. Methods. Upper limb functional changes were evaluated in children with CP (N=21) or ABI (N=22) treated with Armeo®Spring (20 45-minute sessions over 4 weeks) using clinical scales and numerical indices computed from the exoskeleton trajectory. Results. Functional scales (i.e., QUEST and Melbourne) were sensitive to changes produced by the treatment for the whole study group and for the two etiology-based subgroups (improvements above Minimal Clinically Importance Difference). Significant improvement was also observed in terms of velocity, fluidity, and precision of the movement through the numerical indices of kinematic performance. Differences in the temporal evolution of the motor outcome were highlighted between the ABI and CP subgroups, pointing toward adopting different rehabilitative protocols in these two populations. Conclusions. Robot-assisted upper limb rehabilitation seems to be a promising tool to promote and assess rehabilitation in children affected by acquired and congenital brain diseases.
Knowledge and Attitude of Health Professionals toward Telemedicine in Resource-Limited Settings: A Cross-Sectional Study in North West Ethiopia
Authors: Biruk Kirubel , Abetu Eden
Published: November 2018

Background. In resource-limited environments, such as those categorized as underdeveloped countries, telemedicine becomes viewed as effective channel for utilizing the scarce medical resources and infrastructures. The aim of this study was to assess knowledge and attitude toward telemedicine among cross section of health professionals’ working in three hospitals in North West Ethiopia. Methods. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 312 health professionals working in three different hospitals of North Gondar Administrative Zone during November 13 to December 10, 2017. Data were collected using structured self-administered questionnaires. Data entry and analysis were done using SPSS version 20. The mean, percentage, and standard deviation were calculated to describe the characteristics of respondents. The chi-square test was used as appropriate, to evaluate the statistical significance of the differences between the responses of the participants. A P value of < 0.05 was considered significant. Result. A total of 312 study subjects were approached and included in the study from November 13 to December 10, and the response rate was 95.5%. The majority of respondents (195 (65.4%)) were male, and the majority of the respondents (66.1%) were in the age group of 21–29 years. A large number of respondents (224 (75%)) were bachelor’s degree holders. Only 37.6% of the respondents had demonstrated good knowledge of telemedicine, of which 74.1% were male, 65.2% of them were in the age group of 20–29 years, and 63.4% of them had >5 years of work experience. 191 (64.0%) respondents had good attitude toward telemedicine. Conclusion. The findings of the study suggest that although the respondents’ knowledge of telemedicine is limited, most of them have good attitude toward telemedicine. This study underlined the need of giving training on telemedicine in order to fill the knowledge gap.
Constraints on Gravitation from Causality and Quantum Consistency
Authors: Hertzberg Mark P.
Published: November 2018

We examine the role of consistency with causality and quantum mechanics in determining the properties of gravitation. We begin by examining two different classes of interacting theories of massless spin 2 particles—gravitons. One involves coupling the graviton with the lowest number of derivatives to matter, the other involves coupling the graviton with higher derivatives to matter, making use of the linearized Riemann tensor. The first class requires an infinite tower of terms for consistency, which is known to lead uniquely to general relativity. The second class only requires a finite number of terms for consistency, which appears as another class of theories of massless spin 2. We recap the causal consistency of general relativity and show how this fails in the second class for the special case of coupling to photons, exploiting related calculations in the literature. In a companion paper Hertzberg and Sandora (2017), this result is generalized to a much broader set of theories. Then, as a causal modification of general relativity, we add light scalar particles and recap the generic violation of universal free-fall they introduce and its quantum resolution. This leads to a discussion of a special type of scalar-tensor theory: the F(R) models. We show that, unlike general relativity, these models do not possess the requisite counterterms to be consistent quantum effective field theories. Together this helps to remove some of the central assumptions made in deriving general relativity.
Titanium Ions Promote Exogenous Calcium-Dependent Calcium Influx in Activated Jurkat T Cells: A Possible Mechanism to Explain Its Immunostimulatory Properties
Authors: Chen Jing , Li Qiuying , Pang Zhenhua , Gong Ming , Tang Li
Published: November 2018

Titanium and its alloys have been widely used in dental and orthopedic implants. Owing to the biotribocorrosion behavior of implants in simulated oral environment, Ti(IV) ions could be released into surrounding tissues. Current studies have found that Ti(IV) ions could affect the biological activities of immune cells in adjacent tissues and subsequently jeopardize the long-term performance of implant prostheses. However, the potential mechanism underlying its immunomodulatory properties remains unclear. Calcium signaling has been confirmed to be involved in regulation of lymphocyte immune function. Therefore, we hypothesize that Ti(IV) ions modulated T cell function through the change of intracellular calcium concentrations. This study is aimed at exploring the role of intracellular calcium responses in the modulatory effect of Ti(IV) ions on unactivated and phytohemagglutinin-activated Jurkat T cells. Here, we confirmed that Ti(IV) ions within a certain concentration range induced CD69 expression on both unactivated and activated T cells in our study. Additionally, the combined stimulation with Ti(IV) ions and PHA increased expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, and RANKL. Furthermore, we found that treatment with Ti(IV) induced a transitory increase in the levels of [Ca2+]i in activated Jurkat cells, dependent on the presence of exogenous calcium. Treatment with different doses of Ti(IV) for 24 h significantly increased the levels of [Ca2+]i in the activated Jurkat cells in a dose-dependent manner, but had little effect in the unactivated cells. Treatment with Ti(IV) did not significantly affect the PLCγ1 activation and inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) secretion in Jurkat cells. Taken together, these data indicated that Ti(IV) enhanced calcium influx during the T cell activation, independent of IP3-mediated intracellular calcium release. Our work provides insights into the mechanism involved in the regulation of lymphocyte behaviors under the effect of Ti(IV) ions, which may help to develop therapeutic strategies for dental implant failures.
Xiaoyao Kangai Jieyu Fang, a Chinese Herbal Formulation, Ameliorates Cancer‐Related Depression Concurrent with Breast Cancer in Mice via Promoting Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity
Authors: Meng Pan , Han Yuanshan , Yang Qin , Yang Hui , Zhu Qing , Lin Xiaoyuan , Zhang Xiuli , Zhao Hongqing , Liu Zhuo , Liu Jian , Tang Lin , Luo Weixu , Wang Yuhong
Published: November 2018

Diagnosis with breast cancer is a major life event that elicits increases in depressive symptoms for up to 50% of women. Xiaoyao Kangai Jieyu Fang (XYKAJY) is derived from a canonical TCM formula, Xiaoyao San (XYS), which has a history of nearly 1000 years for treating depression. The aim of this study was to investigate whether XYKAJY alleviates depression‐like behavior and breast tumor proliferation in breast cancer mice then explore the mechanisms underlying its action on HPA axis and hippocampal plasticity further. XYKAJY was treated at the high dose of 1.95 g/mL and 0.488 g/mL, after 21 days of administration. Different behaviors, monoamine neurotransmitters, tumor markers, and the index of HPA axis were detected to evaluate depressive‐like symptoms of breast cancer mice. Also, the pathological changes of the tumor, hippocampus, and the expressions of GR, NR2A, NR2B, CAMKII, CREB, and BDNF were detected. In this study, XYKAJY formulation significantly improved the autonomic behavior, reduced the incubation period of feeding, and reversed the typical depressive‐like symptoms in breast cancer mice. Also, it reduced the content of CORT, ACTH, CRH, and CA125, CA153, CEA in the blood, protected the pathological changes of the hippocampus and tumor, upregulated the expression of GR, CREB, and BDNF in the hippocampus, and significantly decreased the expression of NR2A, NR2B, and CaMKII. These results provide direct evidence that XYKAJY effectively alleviates depression‐like behaviors and tumor proliferation in vehicle mice with ameliorates hippocampus synaptic plasticity dysfunctions.
Use of a Simple Mechanical Analogy to Analytically Tune the PD Controller of a Flexible Manipulator System
Authors: Kim Sang-Myeong , Kim Heungseob , Boo Kwangsuck
Published: November 2018

A study is presented in this paper that uses a simple mechanical analogy to analytically tune the PD (proportional‐derivative) controller of a linear flexible manipulator system. More specifically, the aim is to give simple closed‐form solutions of the optimal P and D gains to yield the maximum bandwidth under a given damping requirement or conversely the maximum damping under a given bandwidth requirement. The idea of this study is based on the observation that the performance of the complete manipulator system is largely determined by the operational dynamics of the fundamental vibration mode. A lumped element method is thus applied to model this dynamics in terms of simple lumped mechanical elements. It subsequently turns out that the original servo control problem is analogous to a conventional Zener mount design problem, that is, mathematically, to optimize a third‐order dynamic system consisting of the Zener model of a viscoelastic mount and an inertial object upon it. A design methodology is finally established to analytically determine the optimal elements of the mount, corresponding to the optimal control gains. Simulations and experiments were also conducted with a single‐link flexible beam to support the model and the design methodology developed.
Learning by Teaching with Humanoid Robot: A New Powerful Experimental Tool to Improve Children’s Learning Ability
Authors: Jamet Frank , Masson Olivier , Jacquet Baptiste , Stilgenbauer Jean-Louis , Baratgin Jean
Published: November 2018

Browsing the literature shows that an increasing number of authors choose to use the learning by teaching approach in the field of educational robotics. The goal of this paper is, on the one hand, to produce a review of articles describing the effects of this approach on learning and, on the other hand, to review the literature in order to explore the characteristics at the core of this approach. We will only focus on the work using a humanoid robot. The areas of learning studied are writing, reading, vocabulary, and reasoning, but also there are some metacognitive abilities like task commitment and mental state attribution. Their targets are from very young children to preadolescents. We can already notice some studies on pupils with special educational needs. In all of these domains, the results show a nonnegligible effect of learning by teaching both on learning and on metacognitive abilities. If the concept of learning by teaching is clear, a careful investigation of the different studies shows that experimental paradigms do not use the same basic characteristics. For some, it is the robot’s weakness, the care that must be given to it, which is the main requirement for the approach, while for others it is the unbalanced distribution of knowledge which is at the heart of it. The learning by teaching approach we will study has two components: the robot and the child tutor. The characteristics of the robot and what is asked of the child to accomplish his or her task of the tutor will be analyzed.
Acute Onset of Exogenous Endophthalmitis after Dexamethasone Implant Injection Treated without Implant Removal
Authors: Bastakis George G. , Stavrakakis Anastasios , Nikolaos Avgoustinakis , Dimopoulos Dimitris , Pappas George
Published: November 2018

We present a case of acute endophthalmitis after intravitreal dexamethasone implant injection and discuss the management of this rare and challenging case in which the implant could not be removed. A 50-year-old woman with a history of branch retinal vein occlusion in the right eye was treated with intravitreal dexamethasone implant injection for macular oedema. Four days after injection, the patient was admitted to the department with acute pain, decreased vision, and redness. A diagnosis of acute post-intravitreal injection endophthalmitis was made. A 23-guage (23G) vitrectomy was performed immediately to remove the implant, and a vitreous tap for culture and polymerase chain reaction was acquired during the procedure. We were unable to remove the dexamethasone implant during the vitrectomy because of dense membrane formation. At the end of the procedure, we injected intravitreal antibiotics (vancomycin and amikacin), and the patient was treated with fortified topical antibiotics and steroids. At the time of writing, 5 years later, the patient retains a best corrected visual acuity of 10/10 (6/6) with dexamethasone implant therapy maintenance. Intravitreal dexamethasone implant-associated endophthalmitis is a rare and challenging condition. Immediate 23G pars plana vitrectomy, even without removal of the implant, can lead to favourable visual results.
Comparative Biochemical and Histopathological Studies on the Efficacy of Metformin and Virgin Olive Oil against Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes in Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Balamash Khadijah Saeed , Alkreathy Huda Mohammed , Al Gahdali Elham Hamed , Khoja Sawsan Omer , Ahmad Aftab
Published: November 2018

Treatment of diabetic patients with antioxidant, such as extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), may be beneficial in numerous debilitating complexities. This study was aimed at assessing the protective role of virgin olive oil in reducing hyperglycemia in streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetic rats. Thirty-six healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups (6 rats per group) including nondiabetic control (NC), diabetic control (DC), and animals treated with metformin, olive oil, and a combination of olive oil and metformin, respectively. The protective effect of olive oil was evaluated by determining the biochemical parameters (lipid profile, liver, and kidney) and by studying the histopathological alterations in pancreas, liver, and kidney tissues. The results showed a significant increase in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels in diabetic rats. ALP levels remained significantly elevated in the diabetic rats that were treated with metformin and/or olive oil, and the highest level was noted in the group treated with olive oil (568.33 U/L). Contrarily, pretreatment with olive oil significantly decreased ALT (67.64 U/L) and ALP (226.17 U/L) levels. Histopathological data revealed that all the disorganized islets of Langerhans along with the clusters of inflammatory cells were absent in the group pretreated with the combination of virgin olive oil and metformin, which shows that prophylactic administration of this combination reduces the diabetic complications in a much better way. Therefore, pretreatment with olive oil with or without metformin is an encouraging approach for diabetes therapy with immense potential.
Cardiac Tamponade from Purulent Pericarditis due to Cutibacterium acnes
Authors: Farhat-Sabet Ardalon , Hull Robert , Thomas Dustin
Published: November 2018

Purulent pericarditis is a potentially fatal disease with high mortality rates if untreated. Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) is an anaerobic bacteria that is ubiquitous in skin flora and is commonly thought of as a culture contaminant; however, it does have pathogenic potential. We present a case of purulent pericarditis secondary to C. acnes leading to cardiac tamponade. Initial stabilization and diagnosis were made via pericardiocentesis; afterward the patient underwent a pericardial window. Due to a severe penicillin allergy, he was successfully treated with a 14-day course of vancomycin. To our knowledge, this represents only the third published case of purulent pericarditis with cardiac tamponade caused by C. acnes and the first case treated with a 14-day course of vancomycin.
A Low-Cost Model Vehicle Testbed with Accurate Positioning for Autonomous Driving
Authors: Vedder Benjamin , Vinter Jonny , Jonsson Magnus
Published: November 2018

Accurate positioning is a requirement for many applications, including safety-critical autonomous vehicles. To reduce cost and at the same time improving accuracy for positioning of autonomous vehicles, new methods, tools, and research platforms are needed. We have created a low-cost testbed consisting of electronics and software that can be fitted on model vehicles allowing them to follow trajectories autonomously with a position accuracy of around 3 cm outdoors. The position of the vehicles is derived from sensor fusion between Real-Time Kinematic Satellite Navigation (RTK-SN), odometry, and inertial measurement and performs well within a 10 km radius from a base station. Trajectories to be followed can be edited with a custom GUI, where also several model vehicles can be controlled and visualized in real time. All software and Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) for our testbed are available as open source to make customization and development possible. Our testbed can be used for research within autonomous driving, for carrying test equipment, and other applications where low cost and accurate positioning and navigation are required.
Research on Gas Exploration Shock Wave Spread Law via One‐Way Bifurcation Pipeline
Authors: Jia Zhi-wei , Li Bo , Xu Sheng-ming
Published: November 2018

In order to research on gas exploration shock wave spread law via a one‐way bifurcation pipeline, the gas exploration pipeline experimental system and numerical calculation model were established. By adopting the comparative analysis of experiments and numerical modeling, it conducted researches on the attenuation and shunt characteristics of the gas exploration shock wave via the one‐way bifurcation pipeline and obtained the computational formulas for shock wave attenuation coefficients of branch pipelines and straight pipelines and shock wave shunt coefficients of branch pipelines. As the research result showed that when the pipeline bifurcation angle was fixed, the larger the shock wave overpressure was, the larger the overpressure attenuation coefficients of straight pipelines and branch pipelines were. When the shockwave overpressure was fixed and the one‐way bifurcation pipeline angle increased, the shock wave overpressure attenuation coefficients of branch pipelines would be aggregated and the shock wave overpressure attenuation coefficients of straight pipelines would be decreased, which reflected the shunting action of the shock wave in branch pipelines and straight pipelines; the larger the branch pipeline bifurcation angle, the smaller the shunting action for straight pipelines. The research achievements in the paper had important significance for the assessment of structures damage in mine laneways gas exploration accidents and installation of the antiexploration manhole cover, which further enriched gas exploration spread theory.
Soil Remediation Practices for Hydrocarbon and Heavy Metal Reclamation in Mining Polluted Soils
Authors: Makombe Nigel , Gwisai Reginald Dennis
Published: November 2018

The study assessed the pollution, biodegradation rates, and phytoaccumulation of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs), Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), and Arsenic (As) in soils in the wet and dry seasons and compared them with set standards. Ten samples of 1kg each were randomly collected and mixed for each site that is the upgradient control site (10m2 strata design) and the downgradient contaminated site (16m2 strata design) to make a composite sample for each site. Three representative samples were collected and replicated for four months on both sites. Pot experiments were run with the same concentration levels of TPHs, Pb, As, and Cd. Each pot experiment was also replicated four times for tobacco compost, chicken droppings, Brassica juncea, and the control. Inductive Coupled Spectrometry, SPSS, ANOVA, t-test, normality, and post hoc tests were carried out for analysis. TPHs, Pb, As, and Cd concentrations were significantly higher (p<0.05) than the limits (MHSPEN and USEPA). TPHs and heavy metals had the highest concentration levels in the soil at the selected site in the following order: TPHs>Pb>Cd>As. Bioremediation in a controlled experiment revealed that Chicken Droppings and Brassica juncea were effective in reclaiming TPHs, As, and Cd while Tobacco Compost was effective in reclaiming Pb. The highest mean concentrations of Pb, As, and Cd were found in Brassica juncea in the following increasing order: roots, stem, and leaves, respectively.