bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Progress on Nanostructures for Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Lu Haijiao , Wang Jingkang , Wang Ting , Zhong Jian , Bao Ying , Hao Hongxun
Published: October 2016

With the rapid development of nanotechnology, the convergence of nanostructures and drug delivery has become a research hotspot in recent years. Due to their unique and superior properties, various nanostructures, especially those fabricated from self-assembly, are able to significantly increase the solubility of poorly soluble drugs, reduce cytotoxicity toward normal tissues, and improve therapeutic efficacy. Nanostructures have been successfully applied in the delivery of diverse drugs, such as small molecules, peptides, proteins, and nucleic acids. In this paper, the driving forces for the self-assembly of nanostructures are introduced. The strategies of drug delivery by nanostructures are briefly discussed. Furthermore, the emphasis is put on a variety of nanostructures fabricated from various building materials, mainly liposomes, polymers, ceramics, metal, peptides, nucleic acids, and even drugs themselves.
Indoxyl Sulfate Induces Mesangial Cell Proliferation via the Induction of COX-2
Authors: Li Shuzhen , Cheng Sijie , Sun Zhenzhen , Mungun Harr-keshauve , Gong Wei , Yu Jing , Xia Weiwei , Zhang Yue , Huang Songming , Zhang Aihua , Jia Zhanjun
Published: October 2016

Indoxyl sulfate (IS) is one of important uremic toxins and is markedly accumulated in the circulation of end stage renal disease (ESRD) patients, which might contribute to the damage of residual nephrons and progressive loss of residual renal function (RRF). Thus this study was undertaken to investigate the role of IS in modulating mesangial cell (MC) proliferation and the underlying mechanism. The proliferation of MCs induced by IS was determined by cell number counting, DNA synthase rate, and cell cycle phase analysis. COX-2 expression was examined by Western blotting and qRT-PCR, and a specific COX-2 inhibitor NS398 was applied to define its role in IS-induced MC proliferation. Following IS treatment, MCs exhibited increased total cell number, DNA synthesis rate, and number of cells in S and G2 phases paralleled with the upregulation of cyclin A2 and cyclin D1. Next, we found an inducible inflammation-related enzyme COX-2 was remarkably enhanced by IS, and the inhibition of COX-2 by NS398 significantly blocked IS-induced MC proliferation in line with a blockade of PGE2 production. These findings indicated that IS could induce MC proliferation via a COX-2-mediated mechanism, providing new insights into the understanding and therapies of progressive loss of RRF in ESRD.
Could Total Colectomy with Ileorectal Anastomosis Be an Alternative to Total Proctocolectomy with Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis in Selected Ulcerative Colitis Patients?
Authors: Tonelli Francesco , Di Martino Carmela , Giudici Francesco
Published: October 2016

Purpose. To evaluate ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) in selected ulcerative colitis patients.Methods. Early and late complications after IRA and IPAA were investigated. Bowel function and quality of life were assessed. Functional and QoL studies were performed as a matched pair analysis, comparing 98 patients who underwent IRA versus 98 patients who underwent IPAA.Results. In IRA group, 2 patients (1.6%) developed anastomotic l dysplasia (HGD) developed in 3 patients dysplasia (HGD) developed in 3 patients eakage, 1 patient (0.8%) had intestinal obstruction, and 2 patients (1.6%) had abdominal hematoma. Mean follow-up was 11.5 (range: 2–24.3) years. Failure of IRA occurred in 19 patients (15.1%); in 12 patients (9.5%), failure was related to severe proctitis, in 3 patients (2.4%), it was related to the development of high-grade dysplasia, and in 4 patients (3.2%), it was related to the development of rectal cancer. About functional results, stool consistency [liquid (6.7% of IRA patients versus 29% of IPAA patients;p=0.003)], daily soiling (0% versus 6%;p=0.01), and nocturnal soiling (6% versus 25.5%;p=0.03) were statistically different. Only 1% of IRA patients versus 11% of IPAA patients had episodes of perianal inflammation (p=0.007). CGQoL was 0.72 (±0.14, SD) in IRA patients and 0.75 (±0.11, SD) in IPAA patients (p=ns).Conclusion. In selected patients, IRA is an appropriate surgical option, with low morbidity, comparable quality of life, and better functional results than IPAA.
Temperature Regulation of Photovoltaic Module Using Phase Change Material: A Numerical Analysis and Experimental Investigation
Authors: Mahamudul Hasan , Rahman Md. Momtazur , Metselaar H. S. C. , Mekhilef Saad , Shezan S. A. , Sohel Rana , Abu Karim Sayuti Bin , Badiuzaman Wan Nur Izzati
Published: October 2016

This work represents an effective design of a temperature regulated PV module by integrating phase change materials for Malaysian weather condition. Through the numerical analysis and experimental investigation it has been shown that if a PCM layer of width 0.02 m of RT 35 is used as a cooling arrangement with a PV module, the surface temperature of the module is reduced by 10°C, which remains constant for a period of 4–6 hours. This reduction of temperature implies the increase in conversion efficiency of the module. Experiment as well as investigation has been carried out considering typical Malaysian weather. Obtained result has been validated by using experimental prototype and comparative analysis.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of N-(6-Carboxyl Cyclohex-3-ene Carbonyl) Chitosan with Different Degrees of Substitution
Authors: Badawy Mohamed E. I. , Rabea Entsar I.
Published: October 2016

Five products of N-(6-carboxyl cyclohex-3-ene carbonyl) chitosan as antimicrobial agents were prepared by reaction of chitosan with tetrahydrophthalic anhydride (THPA) at different degrees of substitution (DS). The antimicrobial activity was evaluated against four plant bacteria and eight fungi. The results proved that the inhibitory property and water solubility of the synthesized chitosan derivatives, with increase of the DS, exhibited a remarkable improvement over chitosan. The product with a DS of 0.40 was the most active one with MIC of 510, 735, 240, and 385 mg/L against Erwinia carotovora, Ralstonia solanacearum, Rhodococcus fascians, and Rhizobium radiobacter, respectively, and also in mycelial growth inhibition against Alternaria alternata (EC50 = 683 mg/L), Botrytis cinerea (EC50 = 774 mg/L), Botryodiplodia theobromae (EC50 = 501 mg/L), Fusarium oxysporum (EC50 = 500 mg/L), F. solani (EC50 = 260 mg/L), Penicillium digitatum (EC50 = 417 mg/L), Phytophthora infestans (EC50 = 298 mg/L), and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (EC50 = 763 mg/L). These compounds based on a biodegradable and biocompatible chitosan could be used as potentially antimicrobial agents in crop protection instead of hazardous synthetic pesticides.
Continuous Quadrupole Magnetic Separation of Islets during Digestion Improves Purified Porcine Islet Viability
Authors: Weegman Bradley P. , Kumar Sajja Venkata Sunil , Suszynski Thomas M. , Rizzari Michael D. , Scott III William E. , Kitzmann Jennifer P. , Mueller Kate R. , Hanley Thomas R. , Kennedy David J. , Todd Paul W. , Balamurugan Appakalai N. , Hering Bernhard J. , Papas Klearchos K.
Published: October 2016

Islet transplantation (ITx) is an emerging and promising therapy for patients with uncontrolled type 1 diabetes. The islet isolation and purification processes require exposure to extended cold ischemia, warm-enzymatic digestion, mechanical agitation, and use of damaging chemicals for density gradient separation (DG), all of which reduce viable islet yield. In this paper, we describe initial proof-of-concept studies exploring quadrupole magnetic separation (QMS) of islets as an alternative to DG to reduce exposure to these harsh conditions. Three porcine pancreata were split into two parts, the splenic lobe (SPL) and the combined connecting/duodenal lobes (CDL), for paired digestions and purifications. Islets in the SPL were preferentially labeled using magnetic microparticles (MMPs) that lodge within the islet microvasculature when infused into the pancreas and were continuously separated from the exocrine tissue by QMS during the collection phase of the digestion process. Unlabeled islets from the CDL were purified by conventional DG. Islets purified by QMS exhibited significantly improved viability (measured by oxygen consumption rate per DNA,p<0.03) and better morphology relative to control islets. Islet purification by QMS can reduce the detrimental effects of prolonged exposure to toxic enzymes and density gradient solutions and substantially improve islet viability after isolation.
Granulovacuolar Degeneration in Hippocampus of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Quantitative Study
Authors: Kurdi Maher , Chin Esther , Ang Lee Cyn
Published: October 2016

Background. Granulovacuolar degeneration (GVD) is one of the pathological features long associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and normal aging. Aim. We investigate the frequency of GVDs in AD, other neurodegenerative diseases, and normal aging, with attempt to determine whether the GVD has preponderance in any particular neurodegenerative disease other than AD. Materials and Methods. A retrospective review of 111 autopsied cases with a variety of neurodegenerative diseases and 70 control cases without pathological evidence of neurodegeneration was evaluated quantitatively. The microscopic examination was applied on coronal sections of hippocampi using Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Bielschowsky silver impregnation. The mean percentage of neurons with GVDs was calculated through all sectors of Ammon’s horn for each case. Result. We found that neurons with GVD, in cases with or without neurodegenerative diseases, were found predominantly in CA1 and CA2 sectors of hippocampus. The GVD count in AD was significantly increased in CA1 and CA2 compared to other neurodegenerative cases as well as normal aging controls. In AD/LBD there was a significant increase in GVD in CA1 whereas in LBD there was no significant change in GVD. Conclusions. The frequency of GVD in AD is due to the disease process and attributes the increase for AD/LBD to the AD component.
Parental Perceptions and Practices toward Childhood Asthma
Authors: Abu-Shaheen Amani K. , Nofal Abdullah , Heena Humariya
Published: October 2016

Introduction. Parental perceptions and practices are important for improving the asthma outcomes in children; indeed, evidence shows that parents of asthmatic children harbor considerable misperceptions of the disease.Objective.To investigate the perceptions and practices of parents toward asthma and its management in Saudi children.Methods. Using a self-administered questionnaire, a two-stage cross-sectional survey of parents of children aged between 3 and 15 years, was conducted from schools located in Riyadh province in central Saudi Arabia.Results. During the study interval, 2000 parents were asked to participate in the study; 1450 parents responded, of whom 600 (41.4%) reported that their children had asthma, dyspnea, or chest allergy (recurrent wheezing or coughing), while 478 (32.9%) of the parents reported that their children were diagnosed earlier with asthma by a physician. Therefore, the final statistical analyses were performed with 600 participants. Furthermore, 321 (53.5%) respondents believed that asthma is solely a hereditary disease. Interestingly, 361 (60.3%) were concerned about side effects of inhaled corticosteroids and 192 (32%) about the development of dependency on asthma medications. Almost 76% of parents had previously visited a pediatric emergency department during an asthma attack.Conclusions. Parents had misperceptions regarding asthma and exhibited ineffective practices in its management. Therefore, improving asthma care and compliance requires added parental education.
On the Interval Stability of Weak-Nonlinear Control Systems with Aftereffect
Authors: Shatyrko Andriy , Khusainov Denys
Published: October 2016

Sufficient conditions of interval absolute stability of nonlinear control systems described in terms of systems of the ordinary differential equations with delay argument and also neutral type are obtained. The Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional method in the form of the sum of a quadratic component and integrals from nonlinearity is used at construction of statements.
Low-Grade Appendiceal Mucinous Neoplasm Involving the Endometrium and Presenting with Mucinous Vaginal Discharge
Authors: Vavinskaya Vera , Baumgartner Joel M. , Ko Albert , Saenz Cheryl C. , Valasek Mark A.
Published: October 2016

Primary appendiceal mucinous lesions are uncommon and represent a spectrum from nonneoplastic mucous retention cysts to invasive adenocarcinoma. Low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms (LAMNs) represent an intermediate category on this spectrum and can be classified according to whether or not they are confined to the appendix. Although LAMNs are frequently confined to the appendix, they can also spread to the peritoneum and clinically progress as pseudomyxoma peritonei (i.e., mucinous ascites). Thus, the appropriate classification of appendiceal primary neoplasia is essential for prognosis and influences clinical management. In addition, the precise classification, management, and clinical outcome of patients with disseminated peritoneal disease remain controversial. Here, we report an unusual case of LAMN with pseudomyxoma peritonei that initially presented with mucinous and bloody vaginal discharge. Pathological evaluation revealed low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm with secondary involvement of the peritoneum, ovaries, and endometrial surface. Therefore, LAMN should be considered in the differential diagnosis of mucinous vaginal discharge.
Prevalence and Correlates of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use among Hypertensive Patients in Gondar Town, Ethiopia
Authors: Asfaw Erku Daniel , Basazn Mekuria Abebe
Published: October 2016

Background. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies are being widely used by hypertensive patients worldwide. However, evidences regarding CAM use by hypertensive patients in Ethiopia are limited. This study aimed at assessing prevalence and correlates of CAM use among hypertensive patients attending ambulatory clinic at Gondar University Referral Hospital (GURH), Ethiopia. Methods. A cross‐sectional study was employed on 423 patients visiting GURH. Descriptive statistics and bivariate and multivariate logistic regression tools were used to analyze/come up with the prevalence and correlates of CAM use. Results. The prevalence of CAM use in our study was found to be 67.8% and herbal based medicine was the most commonly utilized CAM therapies. Majority of CAM users (70.2%) did not disclose CAM use for their physician. However, nearly half of CAM users (48.4%) were satisfied with the result of CAM use. Conclusions. The higher prevalence of CAM use among hypertensive patients coupled with a very low disclosure rate to their health care providers can have a marked potential to cause ineffective hypertensive management and adverse effects due to CAM use. Health care providers should be open to discussing the use of CAM with their patients as it will lead to better health outcome.
Effect of the Reinforce Process on the Fatigue Fracture Properties of Aeronautical Polymethyl Methacrylate
Authors: Shang Wei , Yang Xiao-jing , Ji Xin-hua , Liu Zhong-xian
Published: October 2016

The main purpose of the present work is to investigate fatigue fracture mechanical properties of aeronautical directional polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) which has been treated by the directional tensile technology. Firstly, the fatigue cracks growth has been tracked in directional PMMA using the stroboscopic method. Then, the digital photoelasticity with a phase-shifting technique was used to measure the uniformity of the interlaminar stretching. Based on obtained experimental results, the effect of the directional stretching on fatigue fracture properties of PMMA was analyzed. Finally, fatigue fracture properties of laminated directional PMMA were discussed and compared with those of monolayer directional PMMA. Results of this work show that the lamination technology can strengthen the interlayer of directional PMMA and enhance its fatigue fracture properties.
A Case of Thyroid Storm Associated with Cardiomyopathy and Poststreptococcal Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Underland Lisa J. , Villeda Gerson A. Vallencia , Pal Abhijeet , Lam Leslie
Published: October 2016

Thyroid storm has a high mortality rate and is often associated with a precipitating factor such as intercurrent illness or infection. It is rare in pediatric patients. Cardiac disease in hyperthyroidism mostly manifests itself as tachycardia but more serious cardiac findings have also been described. A 5-year-old male with recent strep throat infection presented with dilated cardiomyopathy, hematuria, and symptoms and lab findings consistent with severe hyperthyroidism. He was diagnosed with thyroid storm secondary to concurrent Graves’ disease and poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (PSGN). After starting the treatment with methimazole and a beta-blocker, his cardiac disease gradually improved and the PSGN resolved over time. There are no specific pediatric criteria for thyroid storm. Adult criteria can be difficult to apply to pediatric cases. Criteria for diagnosis of thyroid storm are less clear for pediatric patients. Dilated cardiomyopathy is a rare cardiac manifestation of hyperthyroidism. PSGN is due to glomerular immune complexes and can complicate group A strep infection. Providers should be aware of cardiac disease as a complication of hyperthyroidism. PSGN should not mechanistically be related to hyperthyroidism but can precipitate the signs of thyroid storm such as hypertension. This association has not been previously reported in the literature.
The Influence of Methylsulfonylmethane on Inflammation-Associated Cytokine Release before and following Strenuous Exercise
Authors: van der Merwe Mariè , Bloomer Richard J.
Published: October 2016

Background. Inflammation is associated with strenuous exercise and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.Methods. Physically active men were supplemented with either placebo or MSM (3 grams per day) for 28 days before performing 100 repetitions of eccentric knee extension exercise.Ex vivoandin vitrotesting consisted of evaluating cytokine production in blood (whole blood and isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs)) exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), before and through 72 hours after exercise, whilein vivotesting included the evaluation of cytokines before and through 72 hours after exercise.Results. LPS stimulation of whole blood after MSM supplementation resulted in decreased induction of IL-1β, with no effect on IL-6, TNF-α, or IL-8. After exercise, there was a reduced response to LPS in the placebo, but MSM resulted in robust release of IL-6 and TNF-α. A small decrease in resting levels of proinflammatory cytokines was noted with MSM, while an acute postexercise increase in IL-10 was observed with MSM.Conclusion. Strenuous exercise causes a robust inflammatory reaction that precludes the cells from efficiently responding to additional stimuli. MSM appears to dampen the release of inflammatory molecules in response to exercise, resulting in a less incendiary environment, allowing cells to still have the capacity to mount an appropriate response to an additional stimulus after exercise.
Filariasis of Stensen’s Duct: An Index Case
Authors: Bhargava Eishaan K. , Arora Nikhil , Rai Varun , Meher Ravi , Arora Prerna , Juneja Ruchika
Published: October 2016

Filariasis, a neglected tropical disease, is a global health problem and is endemic to 73 countries including India. It is caused by nematodes of Filariodidea family, namely,W. bancroftiandB. malayiin India, which have a predilection for the lower limbs and testis. We report a never before reported case of filariasis of the main parotid duct in a 25-year-old male that resolved on medical management, exemplifying the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion and careful examination of cytological smears in endemic countries, allowing for an early diagnosis and treatment, decreasing the morbidity of this debilitating disease.
Joint Radio Resource Allocation and Base Station Location Selection in OFDMA Based Private Wireless Access Networks for Smart Grid
Authors: Du Peng , Zhang Yuan
Published: October 2016

This paper studies the base stations deployment problem in orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) based private wireless access networks for smart grid (SG). Firstly, we analyze the differences between private wireless access networks for SG and public cellular access networks. Then, we propose scheduling and power control based algorithms for the radio resource allocation subproblem and K-means, simulated annealing (SA), and particle swarm optimization (PSO) based algorithms for the base station (BS) location selection subproblem and iterate over these two sets of algorithms to solve the target problem. Simulation results show that the proposed method can effectively solve the target problem. Specifically, the combination of power control based resource allocation algorithm and PSO based location selection algorithm is recommended.
Large-Signal DG-MOSFET Modelling for RFID Rectification
Authors: Rodríguez R. , González B. , García J. , Lázaro A. , Iñiguez B. , Hernández A.
Published: October 2016

This paper analyses the undoped DG-MOSFETs capability for the operation of rectifiers for RFIDs and Wireless Power Transmission (WPT) at microwave frequencies. For this purpose, a large-signal compact model has been developed and implemented in Verilog-A. The model has been numerically validated with a device simulator (Sentaurus). It is found that the number of stages to achieve the optimal rectifier performance is inferior to that required with conventional MOSFETs. In addition, the DC output voltage could be incremented with the use of appropriate mid-gap metals for the gate, as TiN. Minor impact of short channel effects (SCEs) on rectification is also pointed out.
Fuzzy Rules for Ant Based Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Hamdi Amira , Monmarché Nicolas , Slimane Mohamed , Alimi Adel M.
Published: October 2016

This paper provides a new intelligent technique for semisupervised data clustering problem that combines the Ant System (AS) algorithm with the fuzzyc-means (FCM) clustering algorithm. Our proposed approach, called F-ASClass algorithm, is a distributed algorithm inspired by foraging behavior observed in ant colonyT. The ability of ants to find the shortest path forms the basis of our proposed approach. In the first step, several colonies of cooperating entities, called artificial ants, are used to find shortest paths in a complete graph that we called graph-data. The number of colonies used in F-ASClass is equal to the number of clusters in dataset. Hence, the partition matrix of dataset founded by artificial ants is given in the second step, to the fuzzyc-means technique in order to assign unclassified objects generated in the first step. The proposed approach is tested on artificial and real datasets, and its performance is compared with those ofK-means,K-medoid, and FCM algorithms. Experimental section shows that F-ASClass performs better according to the error rate classification, accuracy, and separation index.
NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation in the Brain after Global Cerebral Ischemia and Regulation by 17β‐Estradiol
Authors: Thakkar Roshni , Wang Ruimin , Sareddy Gangadhara , Wang Jing , Thiruvaiyaru Dharma , Vadlamudi Ratna , Zhang Quanguang , Brann Darrell
Published: October 2016

17β‐Estradiol (E2) is a well‐known neuroprotective factor in the brain. Recently, our lab demonstrated that the neuroprotective and cognitive effects of E2 require mediation by the estrogen receptor (ER) coregulator protein and proline‐, glutamic acid‐, and leucine‐rich protein 1 (PELP1). In the current study, we examined whether E2, acting via PELP1, can exert anti‐inflammatory effects in the ovariectomized rat and mouse hippocampus to regulate NLRP3 inflammasome activation after global cerebral ischemia (GCI). Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and expression of its downstream products, cleaved caspase‐1 and IL‐1β, were robustly increased in the hippocampus after GCI, with peak levels observed at 6‐7 days. Expression of P2X7 receptor, an upstream regulator of NLRP3, was also increased after GCI. E2 markedly inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome pathway activation, caspase‐1, and proinflammatory cytokine production, as well as P2X7 receptor expression after GCI (at both the mRNA and protein level). Intriguingly, the ability of E2 to exert these anti‐inflammatory effects was lost in PELP1 forebrain‐specific knockout mice, indicating a key role for PELP1 in E2 anti‐inflammatory signaling. Collectively, our study demonstrates that NLRP3 inflammasome activation and proinflammatory cytokine production are markedly increased in the hippocampus after GCI, and that E2 signaling via PELP1 can profoundly inhibit these proinflammatory effects.
Discrete Spectrum of 2 + 1-Dimensional Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation and Dynamics of Lumps
Authors: Villarroel Javier , Prada Julia , Estévez Pilar G.
Published: October 2016

We consider a natural integrable generalization of nonlinear Schrödinger equation to2+1dimensions. By studying the associated spectral operator we discover a rich discrete spectrum associated with regular rationally decaying solutions, the lumps, which display interesting nontrivial dynamics and scattering. Particular interest is placed in the dynamical evolution of the associated pulses. For all cases under study we find that the relevant dynamics corresponds to acentral configurationof a certainN-body problem.
On the Modelling of Context-Aware Security for Mobile Devices
Authors: Zurek Tomasz , Mokkas Michail , Ksiezopolski Bogdan
Published: October 2016

Security management in wireless networks has to deal with the changing character of the environment, which can further lead to decision making problem for unexpected events. Among a huge list of devices, the mobile ones are especially vulnerable to this situation. The solution for adapting systems and applications to dynamic environments can be context-aware description of the user actions, which gives a possibility to take into account the factors that influence these actions. In the article, we propose a context-aware security adjusting model, which is based on proposition logic and incorporates mechanisms that assist in the reasoning process. The main benefits that differentiate our approach from similar ones are a formal representation of the model, the usage of the whole spectrum of context attributes, the detection and analysis of contextual data integrity, and conflicting rules’ eradication capability. All these traits transcribe into a more effective way of adjusting security measures in accordance with existing circumstances. To illustrate the proposed approach, we present the case study of context-aware security management for mobile devices.
A Design of Wide Band and Wide Beam Cavity-Backed Slot Antenna Array with Slant Polarization
Authors: Qi Huiying , Xiao Ke , Zhao Fei , Chai Shunlian , Yin Wenlu
Published: October 2016

Design of antenna array under the limitation of restricted size is a challenging problem. Cavity-backed slot antenna is widely used because of its advantages of small size, wide band, and wide beam. In this paper, a design of wide band and wide beam cavity-backed slot antenna array with the slant polarization is proposed. To obtain wide band and wide beam with limited size, the inverted microstrip-fed cavity-backed slot antenna (IMF-CBSA) is adopted as the element of 1 × 4 antenna array. The slant polarized antennas and their feeding networks are adopted because of their simple structures. The performance of the proposed antenna array is verified by the simulations and experiments. The measured VSWR < 2 bandwidth is 55% at the center frequency 21.8 GHz, and the gain is larger than 12.2 dB. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed design achieves wide band and beam with the size of 68 mm × 56 mm × 14.5 mm.
Studying Maximum Plantar Stress per Insole Design Using Foot CT-Scan Images of Hyperelastic Soft Tissues
Authors: Sarikhani Ali , Motalebizadeh Abbas , Asiaei Sasan , Kamali Doost Azad Babak
Published: October 2016

The insole shape and the resulting plantar stress distribution have a pivotal impact on overall health. In this paper, by Finite Element Method, maximum stress value and stress distribution of plantar were studied for different insoles designs, which are the flat surface and the custom-molded (conformal) surface. Moreover, insole thickness, heel’s height, and different materials were used to minimize the maximum stress and achieve the most uniform stress distribution. The foot shape and its details used in this paper were imported from online CT-Scan images. Results show that the custom-molded insole reduced maximum stress 40% more than the flat surface insole. Upon increase of thickness in both insole types, stress distribution becomes more uniform and maximum stress value decreases up to 10%; however, increase of thickness becomes ineffective above a threshold of 1 cm. By increasing heel height (degree of insole), maximum stress moves from heel to toes and becomes more uniform. Therefore, this scenario is very helpful for control of stress in 0.2° to 0.4° degrees for custom-molded insole and over 1° for flat insole. By changing the material of the insole, the value of maximum stress remains nearly constant. The custom-molded (conformal) insole which has 0.5 to 1 cm thickness and 0.2° to 0.4° degrees is found to be the most compatible form for foot.
A Dog Is a Doctor’s Best Friend: The Use of a Service Dog as a Perioperative Assistant
Authors: Tew Shannon , Taicher Brad M.
Published: October 2016

Service dogs are beneficial in providing assistance to people with multiple types of disabilities and medical disorders including visual impairment, physical disabilities, seizure disorders, diabetes, and mental illness. Some service animals have been trained as a screening tool for cancer. We review a case involving a 6-year-old female with a history of mast cell mediator release and immediate hypersensitivity due to the urticaria pigmentosa variant of cutaneous mastocytosis who underwent a cystourethroscopy. Her service dog, JJ, who would alert to mast cell mediator release, was used throughout the perioperative course as a means of anxiolysis and comfort and to monitor for mast cell mediator release. This case presents an example of a service dog used in a family-care model in the field of anesthesiology and provides a unique example of using a service dog as an additional monitor to alert the care team for impending mast cell mediator release.
Relationship between the LHPP Gene Polymorphism and Resting-State Brain Activity in Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Cui Lingling , Gong Xiaohong , Tang Yanqing , Kong Lingtao , Chang Miao , Geng Haiyang , Xu Ke , Wang Fei
Published: October 2016

A single-nucleotide polymorphism at the LHPP gene (rs35936514) has been reported in genome-wide association studies to be associated with major depressive disorder (MDD). However, the neural system effects of rs35936514 that mediate the association are unknown. The present work explores whether the LHPP rs35936514 polymorphism moderates brain regional activity in MDD. A total of 160 subjects were studied: a CC group homozygous for the C allele (23 individuals with MDD and 57 controls) and a T-carrier group carrying the high risk T allele (CT/TT genotypes; 22 MDD and 58 controls). All participants underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) scanning. Brain activity was assessed using the amplitudes of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF). MDD patients showed a significant increased ALFF in the left middle temporal gyrus and occipital cortex. The T-carrier group showed increased ALFF in the left superior temporal gyrus. Significant diagnosis × genotype interaction was noted in the bilateral lingual gyri, bilateral dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC), and left medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) (P<0.05, corrected). Results demonstrated that MDD patients with LHPP rs35936514 CT/TT genotype may influence the regional brain activity. These findings implicate the effects of the rs35936514 variation on the neural system in MDD.
Performance of Seismic Restrainer with SMA Springs for Sliding Isolation of Single-Layer Spherical Lattice Shells
Authors: Zhuang Peng , Wang Wenting
Published: October 2016

The seismic response of a single-layer spherical lattice shell controlled by restorable sliding isolator is studied under different seismic excitations. The isolation system consists of flat steel-Teflon sliding isolators and superelastic SMA spring restrainers. The NiTi-SMA is used to fabricate helical spring for recentering control of the isolation system. In the first step of this investigation, the configuration scheme and functioning mechanism of a novel SMA spring restrainer are introduced briefly. Then, realistic mechanical behavior of large-scale superelastic NiTi helical spring is studied through a set of cyclic experimental tests. According to the obtained hysteresis loops, a mechanical model combining multilinear model and hysteresis model is developed to simulate the overall response of the SMA-based seismic restrainer. Besides, the sliding isolator is evaluated using a bilinear force-displacement hysteresis model. Finally, a 60 m span single-layer spherical lattice shell with substructure is modeled with finite element program. Nonlinear time history analyses of the controlled and uncontrolled lattice shell are performed considering multidimensional seismic inputs. The study shows that the seismic response of the controlled lattice shell can be effectively reduced by using isolation and control devices. Furthermore, the seismic response of the isolation system such as peak displacement and residual displacement can be effectively controlled by using the developed SMA spring restrainers.
Effect of Water-Cement Ratio on Pore Structure and Strength of Foam Concrete
Authors: Liu Zhongwei , Zhao Kang , Hu Chi , Tang Yufei
Published: October 2016

Foam concrete with different dry densities (400, 500, 600, 700, and 800 kg/m3) was prepared from ordinary Portland cement (P.O.42.5R) and vegetable protein foaming agent by adjusting the water-cement ratio through the physical foaming method. The performance of the cement paste adopted, as well as the structure and distribution of air pores, was characterized by a rheometer, scanning electron microscope, vacuum water saturation instrument, and image analysis software. Effects of the water-cement ratio on the relative viscosity of the cement paste, as well as pore structure and strength of the hardened foam concrete, were discussed. Results showed that water-cement ratio can influence the size, distribution, and connectivity of pores in foam concrete. The compressive strength of the foam concrete showed an inverted V-shaped variation law with the increase in water-cement ratio.
Challenges in Modelling Hypoglycaemia-Associated Autonomic Failure: A Review of Human and Animal Studies
Authors: Senthilkumaran Manjula , Zhou Xin-Fu , Bobrovskaya Larisa
Published: October 2016

Recurrent insulin-induced hypoglycaemia is a major limitation to insulin treatment in diabetes patients leading to a condition called hypoglycaemia-associated autonomic failure (HAAF). HAAF is characterised by reduced sympathoadrenal response to subsequent hypoglycaemia thereby predisposing the patients to severe hypoglycaemia that can lead to coma or even death. Despite several attempts being made, the mechanism of HAAF is yet to be clearly established. In order for the mechanism of HAAF to be elucidated, establishing a human/animal model of the phenomenon is the foremost requirement. Several research groups have attempted to reproduce the phenomenon in diabetic and nondiabetic humans and rodents and reported variable results. The success of the phenomenon is marked by a significant reduction in plasma adrenaline response to subsequent hypoglycaemic episode relative to that of the antecedent hypoglycaemic episode. A number of factors such as the insulin dosage, route of administration, fasting conditions, blood sampling methods and analyses, depth, duration, and number of antecedent hypoglycaemic episodes can impact the successful reproduction of the phenomenon and thus have to be carefully considered while developing the protocol. In this review, we have outlined the protocols followed by different research groups to reproduce the phenomenon in diabetic and nondiabetic humans and rodents including our own observations in rats and discussed the factors that have to be given careful consideration in reproducing the phenomenon successfully.
Morphological Study and Dielectric Behavior of Nonisothermally Crystallized Poly(ethylene naphthalate) Nanocomposites as a Function of Graphene Content
Authors: Espinoza-Martinez Adriana B. , Avalos-Belmontes Felipe , Valle Luis F. Ramos-de , Espinoza-Martinez Pedro A. , Avila-Orta Carlos A. , Soriano-Corral Florentino , Mata-Padilla José M. , Tellez-Rosas María M.
Published: October 2016

Morphological evolution and dielectric properties of poly(ethylene naphthalate)- (PEN-) graphene nanocomposites nonisothermally crystallized have been investigated. PEN-graphene nanocomposites containing 0.01, 0.025, 0.05, 0.075, and 0.1 wt% of graphene were prepared by melt blending in a mini twin screw extruder. The results showed that graphene exhibited a superior influence on morphological and conformational structure of PEN during nonisothermal crystallization at low graphene contents. Crystallization temperature (Tc) was found to be increased up to 18°C supporting the high nucleating activity of graphene layers. Wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated that graphene modifies the conformation of PEN chains promoting crystallinity and favoring the evolution fromαtoβcrystalline form with homogeneous lamellar thickness. It may be attributed to the structural similarity between naphthalene rings and graphene structure and toπ-πinteractions during nucleation. Dielectric behavior was found to be a function of graphene content where the nanocomposites changed from dielectric to low conducting material when passing from 0.075 to 0.1 wt% of graphene content. This phenomenon permits having a wide range of properties to fit a wide variety of applications required to store electrical energy of low voltage.
A Review of the Topologies Used in Smart Water Meter Networks: A Wireless Sensor Network Application
Authors: Marais Jaco , Malekian Reza , Ye Ning , Wang Ruchuan
Published: October 2016

This paper presents several proposed and existing smart utility meter systems as well as their communication networks to identify the challenges of creating scalable smart water meter networks. Network simulations are performed on 3 network topologies (star, tree, and mesh) to determine their suitability for smart water meter networks. The simulations found that once a number of nodes threshold is exceeded the network’s delay increases dramatically regardless of implemented topology. This threshold is at a relatively low number of nodes (50) and the use of network topologies such as tree or mesh helps alleviate this problem and results in lower network delays. Further simulations found that the successful transmission of application layer packets in a 70-end node tree network can be improved by 212% when end nodes only transmit data to their nearest router node. The relationship between packet success rate and different packet sizes was also investigated and reducing the packet size with a factor of 16 resulted in either 156% or 300% increases in the amount of successfully received packets depending on the network setup.
Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Historical and Scientific Overview
Authors: Singh Anurag K. , McGuirk Joseph P.
Published: October 2016

The field of hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) has made ground-breaking progress in the treatment of many malignant and nonmalignant conditions. It has also pioneered the concepts of stem cell therapy and immunotherapy as a tool against cancer. The success of transplant for hematologic malignancies derives both from the ability to treat patients with intensive chemoradiotherapy and from potent graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effects mediated by donor immunity. Additionally, HSCT has been a curative therapy for several nonmalignant hematologic disorders through the provision of donor-derived hematopoiesis and immunity. Preclinical and clinical research in the field has contributed to an advanced understanding of histocompatibility, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), GVL effect, and immune reconstitution after transplant. Improved donor selection, tailored conditioning regimens, and better supportive care have helped reduce transplant-related morbidity and mortality and expanded access. The development of unrelated donor registries and increased utilization of cord blood and partially matched related donor transplants have ensured a donor for essentially everyone who needs a transplant. However, significant barriers still remain in the form of disease relapse, GVHD infectious complications, and regimen-related toxicities. Recent developments in the field of cellular therapy are expected to further improve the efficacy of transplant. In this review, we discuss the current science of HSCT from a historical perspective, highlighting major discoveries. We also speculate on future directions in this field. Cancer Res; 76(22); 6445–51. ©2016 AACR.
Intrauterine Adiposity and BMI in 4- to 5-Year-Old Offspring from Diabetic Pregnancies
Authors: Hammoud Nurah M. , de Valk Harold W. , Biesma Douwe H. , Visser Gerhard H.A.
Published: October 2016

Background: Pregnancies complicated by maternal diabetes are associated with disproportionate intrauterine growth that subsequently may lead to pediatric adiposity. Objectives: We investigated whether disproportionate intrauterine growth leads to differences in BMI in 4- to 5-year-old offspring from pregnancies complicated by type 1 (ODM1), type 2 (ODM2), or gestational diabetes (OGDM). Methods: Ultrasound data of fetal head-to-abdominal circumference (HC/AC) ratio obtained between 32 and 36 weeks of gestational age were related to offspring anthropometrics that were retrieved from infant welfare centers. Results: Data from 27 ODM1, 22 ODM2, and 24 OGDM were obtained. Ultrasound measurements for the HC/AC ratio were performed at a mean of 33-34 weeks, with a mean Z-score of the HC/AC ratio of -0.801, -0.879, and 0.017 in ODM1, ODM2, and OGDM. Mean BMI SDS was highest in ODM2 as compared to ODM1 and OGDM. In ODM1 there was a negative correlation between HC/AC ratio and BMI SDS at the ages of 4 and 5 years, but not in ODM2 or OGDM. The birth weight Z-score was positively correlated to BMI SDS in ODM2 and OGDM. Conclusion: Disproportionate intrauterine growth, expressed as the HC/AC ratio, was inversely related with BMI SDS in ODM1 at the ages of 4-5 years, but not in ODM2 or OGDM. Weight and maybe obesity in ODM1 offspring are likely to be related to intrauterine adiposity, whereas overweight in ODM2 and OGDM offspring seems more related to other factors such as birth weight centile, maternal obesity, and altered lifestyle factors during childhood.
Insufficient Sedation and Severe Side Effects after Fast Administration of Remifentanil during INSURE in Preterm Newborns
Authors: de Kort Ellen H.M. , Hanff Lidwien M. , Roofthooft Daniella , Reiss Irwin K.M. , Simons Sinno H.P.
Published: October 2016

Background: Neonatal intubation is stressful and should be performed with premedication. In the case of an INSURE (intubation/surfactant/extubation) procedure a short duration of action of the premedication used is needed to facilitate fast extubation. Given its pharmacological profile, remifentanil seems a suitable candidate. Objectives: The aim here was to evaluate the effect and side effects of remifentanil as a premedication for preterm neonates undergoing INSURE. Methods: A prospective, single-center study in a level III neonatal intensive care unit was conducted. The quality of sedation was assessed in preterm infants receiving remifentanil prior to intubation for the INSURE procedure. Intravenous remifentanil was administered quickly and followed by a saline flush in approximately 30 s. The quality of sedation was defined by a combination of adequate sedation score, good intubation conditions and absence of side effects. Results: The study was terminated after the inclusion of 14 patients because of the high rate of side effects and the poor intubation conditions. Adequate sedation was achieved in only 2 patients (14%). Six patients (43%) needed additional propofol to obtain adequate sedation. Chest wall rigidity occurred in 6 patients (43%). Conclusions: The rapid administration of remifentanil provides insufficient sedation and is associated with a high risk of chest wall rigidity in preterm neonates.
Decreased Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Degradation in Shiga Toxin-Associated Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome
Authors: Leffler Jonatan , Prohászka Zoltán , Mikes Bálint , Sinkovits György , Ciacma Katarzyna , Farkas Péter , Réti Marienn , Kelen Kata , Reusz György S. , Szabó Attila J. , Martin Myriam , Blom Anna M.
Published: October 2016

Background: Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) can stimulate thrombosis, and their degradation is decreased in several autoimmune disorders. It was recently reported that some patients with haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) also fail to degrade NETs and that neutrophils from Shiga toxin-associated HUS are primed to form NETs. Method: We used a well-characterized cohort of 74 thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) patients, with a subset also providing follow-up samples, and 112 age-matched controls to investigate NET degradation and serum nuclease activity in TMA before, during and after treatment. Results: We identified that in the cohort of TMA patients, 50% of patients with Shiga toxin-associated HUS displayed a decreased ability to degrade NETs. NET degradation correlated with serum nuclease activity, but not with autoantibodies against double-stranded DNA, which has been previously observed in some autoimmune disorders. Further, NET degradation negatively correlated with serum creatinine levels, suggesting that kidney function was negatively impacted by the low NET degradation ability. Conclusions: We revealed that decreased NET degradation is a common feature of Shiga toxin-associated HUS and that it is associated with decreased kidney function in these patients. It remains to be clarified whether improving NET degradation would be beneficial for the patient.