bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention of Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Pietrucha-Dilanchian Paula , Hooton Thomas M.
Published: January 2017

UTI may involve the lower or upper urinary tract and may be uncomplicated or complicated. The emphasis of this chapter is uncomplicated UTI. The diagnosis of uncomplicated cystitis (bladder infection) and pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is usually easily made based on the clinical presentation, whereas the diagnosis in patients with complicated UTI is often more complex. Thus uncomplicated cystitis is usually manifested by dysuria, frequency and/or urgency without fever, and pyelonephritis is usually manifested by fever and back pain/costovertebral angle tenderness. However, pyuria is usually present with UTI, regardless of location, and its absence suggests that another condition may be causing the patient’s symptoms. Treatment of cystitis is usually straightforward with one of several effective short-course antimicrobial regimens, although antimicrobial resistance continues to increase and can complicate treatment choices in certain areas. Likewise, antimicrobial resistance has complicated our management of uncomplicated pyelonephritis since resistance of uropathogens to the fluoroquinolone class, the mainstay of oral treatment for pyelonephritis, is increasing worldwide, and some of the other agents used for cystitis are not recommended for pyelonephritis due to low tissue levels. The goal of prevention of recurrent cystitis is to minimize the use of antimicrobials and there are several research efforts in progress to develop effective and safe antimicrobial-sparing preventive approaches for this common condition.
Introducing rapid tests for malaria into the retail sector: what are the unintended consequences?
Authors: Hutchinson Eleanor , Hutchison Coll , Lal Sham , Hansen Kristian , Kayendeke Miriam , Nabirye Christine , Magnussen Pascal , Clarke Siân E , Mbonye Anthony , Chandler Clare I R
Published: January 2017

The observation that many people in Africa seek care for febrile illness in the retail sector has led to a number of public health initiatives to try to improve the quality of care provided in these settings. The potential to support the introduction of rapid diagnostic tests for malaria (mRDTs) into drug shops is coming under increased scrutiny. Those in favour argue that it enables the harmonisation of policy around testing and treatment for malaria and maintains a focus on market-based solutions to healthcare. Despite the enthusiasm among many global health actors for this policy option, there is a limited understanding of the consequences of the introduction of mRDTs in the retail sector. We undertook an interpretive, mixed methods study with drug shop vendors (DSVs), their clients and local health workers to explore the uses and interpretations of mRDTs as they became part of daily practice in drug shops during a trial in Mukono District, Uganda. This paper reports the unintended consequences of their introduction. It describes how the test engendered trust in the professional competence of DSVs; was misconstrued by clients and providers as enabling a more definitive diagnosis of disease in general rather than malaria alone; that blood testing made drug shops more attractive places to seek care than they had previously been; was described as shifting treatment-seeking behaviour away from formal health centres and into drug shops; and influenced an increase in sales of medications, particularly antibiotics.

Trial registration number

NCT01194557; Results.
Have health inequalities changed during childhood in the New Labour generation? Findings from the UK Millennium Cohort Study
Authors: Rougeaux Emeline , Hope Steven , Law Catherine , Pearce Anna
Published: January 2017

Objectives

To examine how population-level socioeconomic health inequalities developed during childhood, for children born at the turn of the 21st century and who grew up with major initiatives to tackle health inequalities (under the New Labour Government).

Setting

The UK.

Participants

Singleton children in the Millennium Cohort Study at ages 3 (n=15 381), 5 (n=15 041), 7 (n=13 681) and 11 (n=13 112) years.

Primary outcomes

Relative (prevalence ratios (PR)) and absolute health inequalities (prevalence differences (PD)) were estimated in longitudinal models by socioeconomic circumstances (SEC; using highest maternalacademicattainment, ranging from ‘no academic qualifications’ to ‘degree’ (baseline)). Three health outcomes were examined: overweight (including obesity), limiting long-standing illness (LLSI), and socio-emotional difficulties (SED).

Results

Relative and absolute inequalities in overweight, across the social gradient, emerged by age 5 and increased with age. By age 11, children with mothers who had no academic qualifications were considerably more likely to be overweight as compared with those with degree-educated mothers (PR=1.6 (95% CI 1.4 to 1.8), PD=12.9% (9.1% to 16.8%)). For LLSI, inequalities emerged by age 7 and remained at 11, but only for children whose mothers had no academic qualifications (PR=1.7 (1.3 to 2.3), PD=4.8% (2% to 7.5%)). Inequalities in SED (observed across the social gradient and at all ages) declined between 3 and 11, although remained large at 11 (eg, PR=2.4 (1.9 to 2.9), PD=13.4% (10.2% to 16.7%) comparing children whose mothers had no academic qualifications with those of degree-educated mothers).

Conclusions

Although health inequalities have been well documented in cross-sectional and trend data in the UK, it is less clear how they develop during childhood. We found that relative and absolute health inequalities persisted, and in some cases widened, for a cohort of children born at the turn of the century. Further research examining and comparing the pathways through which SECs influence health may further our understanding of how inequalities could be prevented in future generations of children.
Implementation of a consumer-focused eHealth intervention for people with moderate-to-high cardiovascular disease risk: protocol for a mixed-methods process evaluation
Authors: Coorey Genevieve M , Neubeck Lis , Usherwood Timothy , Peiris David , Parker Sharon , Lau Annie Y S , Chow Clara , Panaretto Kathryn , Harris Mark , Zwar Nicholas , Redfern Julie
Published: January 2017

Introduction

Technology-mediated strategies have potential to engage patients in modifying unhealthy behaviour and improving medication adherence to reduce morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, electronic tools offer a medium by which consumers can more actively navigate personal healthcare information. Understanding how, why and among whom such strategies have an effect can help determine the requirements for implementing them at a scale. This paper aims to detail a process evaluation that will (1) assess implementation fidelity of a multicomponent eHealth intervention; (2) determine its effective features; (3) explore contextual factors influencing and maintaining user engagement; and (4) describe barriers, facilitators, preferences and acceptability of such interventions.

Methods and analysis

Mixed-methods sequential design to derive, examine, triangulate and report data from multiple sources. Quantitative data from 3 sources will help to inform both sampling and content framework for the qualitative data collection: (1) surveys of patients and general practitioners (GPs); (2) software analytics; (3) programme delivery records. Qualitative data from interviews with patients and GPs, focus groups with patients and field notes taken by intervention delivery staff will be thematically analysed. Concurrent interview data collection and analysis will enable a thematic framework to evolve inductively and inform theory building, consistent with a realistic evaluation perspective. Eligible patients are those at moderate-to-high CVD risk who were randomised to the intervention arm of a randomised controlled trial of an eHealth intervention and are contactable at completion of the follow-up period; eligible GPs are the primary healthcare providers of these patients.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been received from the University of Sydney Human Research Ethics Committee and the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council (AH&MRC) of New South Wales. Results will be disseminated via scientific forums including peer-reviewed publications and national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

ANZCTR 12613000715774.
International multiphase mixed methods study protocol to develop a cross-cultural patient-reported outcome instrument for children and young adults with cleft lip and/or palate (CLEFT-Q)
Authors: Wong Riff Karen W Y , Tsangaris Elena , Goodacre Tim , Forrest Christopher R , Pusic Andrea L , Cano Stefan J , Klassen Anne F
Published: January 2017

Introduction

Patient-reported outcome (PRO) instruments should be developed according to rigorous guidelines in order to provide clinically meaningful, scientifically sound measurement. Understanding the methodology behind instrument development informs the selection of the most appropriate tool. This mixed methods protocol describes the development of an internationally applicable PRO instrument, the CLEFT-Q, for evaluating outcomes of treatment for cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P).

Methods and analysis

The study includes three main phases that occur iteratively and interactively. In phase I, we determine what concepts are important to patients regarding their outcome. A conceptual framework for the CLEFT-Q is formed through a systematic review and an extensive international qualitative study. The systematic review ascertains what concepts have previously been measured in patients with CL/P. The qualitative study employs interpretive description and involves in-depth interviews with patients in high-income and lower-middle income countries. Preliminary items are generated from the qualitative data. Preliminary scales are then created for each theme in the framework. Cognitive debriefing interviews and expert clinician input are used to refine the scales in an iterative process. In phase II, the preliminary scales are administered to a large international group of patients with CL/P. The modern psychometric method of Rasch Measurement Theory analysis is employed to define the measurement characteristics. The preliminary scales are shortened based on these results. In phase III, further tests assess reliability, validity and responsiveness of the instrument.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is approved by Research Ethics Boards for each participating site. Findings from this study will be published in open access peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and international conferences. Integrated knowledge translation is employed to engage stakeholders from the outset of the study. Successful execution of the CLEFT-Q will result in an internationally applicable PRO instrument for children and young adults with CL/P.
Brachycephalic dogs and honesty with clients
Authors: Fawcett Anne
Published: January 2017

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved.

In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, ‘Brachycephalic dogs and honesty with clients’, was submitted and is discussed by Anne Fawcett. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue.

The series is being coordinated by Steven McCulloch, a practising vet with a PhD in the ethics of veterinary policy. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practitioners find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Developing a risk‐based trading scheme for cattle in England: farmer perspectives on managing trading risk for bovine tuberculosis
Authors: Little R. , Wheeler K. , Edge S.
Published: January 2017

This paper examines farmer attitudes towards the development of a voluntary risk‐based trading scheme for cattle in England as a risk mitigation measure for bovine tuberculosis (bTB). The research reported here was commissioned to gather evidence on the type of scheme that would have a good chance of success in improving the information farmers receive about the bTB risk of cattle they buy. Telephone interviews were conducted with a stratified random sample of 203 cattle farmers in England, splitting the interviews equally between respondents in the high‐risk area and low‐risk area for bTB. Supplementary interviews and focus groups with farmers were also carried out across the risk areas. Results suggest a greater enthusiasm for a risk‐based trading scheme in low‐risk areas compared with high‐risk areas and among members of breed societies and cattle health schemes. Third‐party certification of herds by private vets or the Animal and Plant Health Agency were regarded as the most credible source, with farmer self‐certification being favoured by sellers, but being regarded as least credible by buyers. Understanding farmers’ attitudes towards voluntary risk‐based trading is important to gauge likely uptake, understand preferences for information provision and to assist in monitoring, evaluating and refining the scheme once established.
Dynamics of wide binary stars: A case study for testing Newtonian dynamics in the low acceleration regime
Authors: Scarpa Riccardo , Ottolina Riccardo , Falomo Renato , Treves Aldo
Published: January 2017

Extremely wide binary stars represent ideal systems to probe Newtonian dynamics in the low acceleration regimes ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]ms[Formula: see text]) typical of the external regions of galaxies. Here, we present a study of 60 alleged wide binary stars with projected separation ranging from 0.004[Formula: see text]pc to 1[Formula: see text]pc, probing gravitational accelerations well below the limit where dark matter or modified dynamics theories set in. Radial velocities with accuracy [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m/s were obtained for each star, in order to constrain their orbital velocity, that, together with proper motion data, can distinguish bound from unbound systems. It was found that about half of the observed pairs do have velocity in the expected range for bound systems, out of the largest separations probed here. In particular, we identified five pairs with projected separation [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]pc that are useful for the proposed test. While it would be premature to draw any conclusion about the validity of Newtonian dynamics at these low accelerations, our main result is that very wide binary stars seem to exist in the harsh environment of the solar neighborhood. This could provide a tool to test Newtonian dynamics versus modified dynamics theories in the low acceleration conditions typical of galaxies. In the near future the GAIA satellite will provide data to increase significantly the number of wide pairs that, with the appropriate follow-up spectroscopic observations, will allow the implementation of this experiment with unprecedented accuracy.
May axion clusters be sources of fast radio bursts?
Authors: Pshirkov M. S.
Published: January 2017

Fast radio bursts (FRBs) can be caused by some phenomena related to new physics. One of the most prominent candidates of the kind are axion Bose stars which can engender bursts when undergoing conversion into photons in magnetospheres of neutron stars (NSs) or during their collapse. In this short research note, an importance of three observational criteria is outlined, namely total energetic, [Formula: see text](ms) duration and nonmonochromatic shape of the spectrum. It is shown that it is impossible to meet these criteria in simplified models of axion–neutron star interaction scenario and thorough investigation of more complex models which involve backreaction and nonlinear effects is needed in order to explain FRBs within this scenario.
Galvanometer-Based Scanners: Mathematical Model and Alternative Control Structures for Improved Dynamics and Immunity to Disturbances
Authors: Mnerie Corina , Preitl Stefan , Duma Virgil-Florin
Published: January 2017

Galvanometer scanners (GSs) are the most utilized optomechatronic systems for laser scanning. A GS consists of an oscillatory element (which includes the galvomirror) in a motor structure equipped with a positioning servo-system built usually in a closed-loop structure and controlled by different algorithms. Such structures have to provide speed and accuracy in the positioning of the laser beam or for raster scanning. Although tackled by numerous studies, on different aspects, this is still an open problem. The aim of this study is to approach it in a simple way and to provide a low cost solution to increasing accuracy by developing a structure which is more immune to disturbances than the classical one. In order to do this, a basic closed-loop GS which consists of a proportional-derivative (PD-L1) controller and a servo-motor is considered first. The mathematical model and the GS parameters are identified using a theoretical approach followed by experimental identifications. The extended control solution is developed starting from this basic GS structure by introducing a proportional-integrative (PI) controller in series with the PD-L1 controller of the GS; further on, a P-L1 reference filter is added to this new structure. In the absence of disturbances, both the basic and the extended control solutions show good tracking performances, but the basic solution is faster. In the presence of constant disturbances which can affect the servo-system, the latter structure (extended and filtered) has the best dynamical and tracking performances.
Asymptotic decomposition of substochastic semigroups and applications
Authors: Pichór Katarzyna , Rudnicki Ryszard
Published: January 2017

Theorems on asymptotic decomposition of substochastic semigroups are given. General results are applied to show asymptotic properties of substochastic semigroups generated by dynamical systems with random switching.
Quantitative recurrence results for random walks
Authors: Luzia Nuno
Published: January 2017

First, we prove an almost sure local central limit theorem for lattice random walks in the plane. The corresponding version for random walks in the line has been considered previously by the author. This gives us an extension of Pólya’s Recurrence Theorem, namely we consider an appropriate subsequence of the random walk and give the asymptotic number of returns to the origin and other states. Secondly, we prove an almost sure local central limit theorem for (not necessarily lattice) random walks in the line or in the plane, which will also give us quantitative recurrence results. Finally, we prove a version of the almost sure central limit theorem for multidimensional random walks. This is done by exploiting a technique developed by the author.
Multi-Scale Impact and Compression-After-Impact Modeling of Reinforced Benzoxazine/Epoxy Composites using Micromechanics Approach
Authors: Montero Marc Villa , Barjasteh Ehsan , Baid Harsh K. , Godines Cody , Abdi Frank , Nikbin Kamran
Published: January 2017

A multi-scale micromechanics approach along with finite element (FE) model predictive tool is developed to analyze low-energy-impact damage footprint and compression-after-impact (CAI) of composite laminates which is also tested and verified with experimental data. Effective fiber and matrix properties were reverse-engineered from lamina properties using an optimization algorithm and used to assess damage at the micro-level during impact and post-impact FE simulations. Progressive failure dynamic analysis (PFDA) was performed for a two step-process simulation. Damage mechanisms at the micro-level were continuously evaluated during the analyses. Contribution of each failure mode was tracked during the simulations and damage and delamination footprint size and shape were predicted to understand when, where and why failure occurred during both impact and CAI events. The composite laminate was manufactured by the vacuum infusion of the aero-grade toughened Benzoxazine system into the fabric preform. Delamination footprint was measured using C-scan data from the impacted panels and compared with the predicated values obtained from proposed multi-scale micromechanics coupled with FE analysis. Furthermore, the residual strength was predicted from the load-displacement curve and compared with the experimental values as well.
Technical note: Terrain evaluation in Engineering Geology
Authors: Griffiths J. S.
Published: January 2017

The importance of terrain evaluation techniques in engineering geology is demonstrated by the instigation of two Engineering Group working parties on the subject that reported in 1982 and 2001. Since the second working party report ground models have emerged as one of the key requirements of ground investigations for engineering practice and this paper suggests that terrain evaluation is fundamental to the development of ground models in providing the spatial framework to facilitate interpretation. However, terrain evaluation has also emerged as the basis for creating more extensive generalized models that are required when constructing long linear structures such as roads and pipelines that cross very varied landscapes. This variation in application has led to confusion over the nomenclature used in terrain evaluation. In this paper terrain evaluation is regarded as a broad over-arching term that encompasses a range of techniques and it is suggested that its application in engineering practice should not be restricted by narrow or ambiguous definitions.
Radon dynamics in a dwelling with high radon levels in a karst area
Authors: Vaupotič J. , Brodar A. , Gregorič A. , Kobal I.
Published: January 2017

Year-long continuous radon monitoring was carried out (using Sarad Radon Scout devices) in a dwelling with high radon levels in the karst region of Slovenia. Two living rooms were selected: one on the ground floor with normal housework activities; and the second, on the first floor, closed and unattended. Meteorological data were also recorded. The following seasonal geometric means of radon activity concentration (kBq m
−3
) have been found: 6.28×/: 3.05 for spring, 1.25×/: 3.78 for summer, 5.17×/: 2.03 kBq m
−3
for autumn and 9.83×/: 1.48 for winter on the ground floor; and 1.43×/: 3.71 for spring, 0.168×/: 2.49 for summer, 1.08×/: 2.39 for autumn and 2.08×/: 2.14 for winter on the first floor. Results are supported by additional radon measurements in other rooms; and in water the results indicate a strong radon source associated with an underground karst shaft.
Na+-taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP/SLC10A1) ortholog in the marine skateLeucoraja erinaceais not a physiological bile salt transporter
Authors: Yu Dongke , Zhang Han , Lionarons Daniel A. , Boyer James L. , Cai Shi-Ying
Published: January 2017

The Na+-dependent taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP/SLC10A1) is a hepatocyte-specific solute carrier, which plays an important role in maintaining bile salt homeostasis in mammals. The absence of a hepatic Na+-dependent bile salt transport system in marine skate and rainbow trout raises a question regarding the function of the Slc10a1 gene in these species. Here, we have characterized the Slc10a1 gene in the marine skate, Leucoraja erinacea. The transcript of skate Slc10a1 (skSlc10a1) encodes 319 amino acids and shares 46% identity to human NTCP (hNTCP) with similar topology to mammalian NTCP. SkSlc10a1 mRNA was mostly confined to the brain and testes with minimal expression in the liver. An FXR-bile salt reporter assay indicated that skSlc10a1 transported taurocholic acid (TCA) and scymnol sulfate, but not as effectively as hNTCP. An [3H]TCA uptake assay revealed that skSlc10a1 functioned as a Na+-dependent transporter, but with low affinity for TCA ( Km= 92.4 µM) and scymnol sulfate ( Ki= 31 µM), compared with hNTCP (TCA, Km= 5.4 µM; Scymnol sulfate, Ki= 3.5 µM). In contrast, the bile salt concentration in skate plasma was 2 µM, similar to levels seen in mammals. Interestingly, skSlc10a1 demonstrated transport activity for the neurosteroids dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and estrone-3-sulfate at physiological concentration, similar to hNTCP. Together, our findings indicate that skSlc10a1 is not a physiological bile salt transporter, providing a molecular explanation for the absence of a hepatic Na+-dependent bile salt uptake system in skate. We speculate that Slc10a1 is a neurosteroid transporter in skate that gained its substrate specificity for bile salts later in vertebrate evolution.
Extracellular microRNA signature in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Muralidharan Jagdeesan , Ramezani Ali , Hubal Monica , Knoblach Susan , Shrivastav Shashi , Karandish Sara , Scott Richard , Maxwell Nirmal , Ozturk Savas , Beddhu Srinivasan , Kopp Jeffrey B. , Raj Dominic S.
Published: January 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that regulate posttranscriptional gene expression. In this study we characterized the circulating and urinary miRNA pattern associated with reduced glomerular filtration rate, using Affymetrix GeneChip miR 4.0 in 28 patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Top miRNA discoveries from the human studies were validated in an Alb/TGFβ mouse model of CKD, and in rat renal proximal tubular cells (NRK52E) exposed to TGFβ1. Plasma and urinary levels of procollagen III N-terminal propeptide and collagen IV were elevated in patients with decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Expression of 384 urinary and 266 circulatory miRNAs were significantly different between CKD patients with eGFR ≥30 vs. <30 ml·min−1·1.73 m−2. Pathway analysis mapped multiple miRNAs to TGFβ signaling-related mRNA targets. Specifically, Let-7a was significantly downregulated, and miR-130a was significantly upregulated, in urine of patients with eGFR <30; miR-1825 and miR-1281 were upregulated in both urine and plasma of patients with decreased eGFR; and miR-423 was significantly downregulated in plasma of patients with decreased eGFR. miRNA expression in urine and plasma of Alb/TGFβ mice generally resembled and confirmed most, although not all, of the observations from the human studies. In response to TGFβ1 exposure, rat renal proximal tubular cells overexpressed miR-1825 and downregulated miR-423. Thus, miRNA are associated with kidney fibrosis, and specific urinary and plasma miRNA profile may have diagnostic and prognostic utility in CKD.
Losartan reduces the immediate and sustained increases in muscle sympathetic nerve activity after hyperacute intermittent hypoxia
Authors: Jouett Noah P. , Moralez Gilbert , Raven Peter B. , Smith Michael L.
Published: January 2017

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by intermittent hypoxemia, which produces elevations in sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) and associated hypertension in experimental models that persist beyond the initial exposure. We tested the hypotheses that angiotensin receptor blockade in humans using losartan attenuates the immediate and immediately persistent increases in 1) SNA discharge and 2) mean arterial pressure (MAP) after hyperacute intermittent hypoxia training (IHT) using a randomized, placebo-controlled, repeated-measures experimental design. We measured ECG and photoplethysmographic arterial pressure in nine healthy human subjects, while muscle SNA (MSNA) was recorded in seven subjects using microneurography. Subjects were exposed to a series of hypoxic apneas in which they inhaled two to three breaths of nitrogen, followed by a 20-s apnea and 40 s of room air breathing every minute for 20 min. Hyperacute IHT produced substantial and persistent elevations in MSNA burst frequency (baseline: 15.3 ± 1.8, IHT: 24 ± 1.5, post-IHT 20.0 ± 1.3 bursts/min, all P < 0.01) and MAP (baseline: 89.2 ± 3.3, IHT: 92.62 ± 3.1, post-IHT: 93.83 ± 3.1 mmHg, all P < 0.02). Losartan attenuated the immediate and sustained increases in MSNA (baseline: 17.3 ± 2.5, IHT: 18.6 ± 2.2, post-IHT 20.0 ± 1.3 bursts/min, all P < 0.001) and MAP (baseline: 81.9 ± 2.6, IHT: 81.1 ± 2.8, post-IHT: 81.3 ± 3.0 mmHg, all P > 0.70). This investigation confirms the role of angiotensin II type 1a receptors in the immediate and persistent sympathoexcitatory and pressor responses to IHT.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study demonstrates for the first time in humans that losartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), abrogates the acute and immediately persistent increases in muscle sympathetic nerve activity and arterial pressure in response to acute intermittent hypoxia. This investigation, along with others, provides important beginning translational evidence for using ARBs in treatment of the intermittent hypoxia observed in obstructive sleep apnea patients.
Proliferative and Invasive Effects of Progesterone-Induced Blocking Factor in Human Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Gutiérrez-Rodríguez Araceli , Hansberg-Pastor Valeria , Camacho-Arroyo Ignacio
Published: January 2017

Progesterone-induced blocking factor (PIBF) is a progesterone (P4) regulated protein expressed in different types of high proliferative cells including astrocytomas, the most frequent and aggressive brain tumors. It has been shown that PIBF increases the number of human astrocytoma cells. In this work, we evaluated PIBF regulation by P4 and the effects of PIBF on proliferation, migration, and invasion of U87 and U251 cells, both derived from human glioblastomas. PIBF mRNA expression was upregulated by P4 (10 nM) from 12 to 24 h. Glioblastoma cells expressed two PIBF isoforms, 90 and 57 kDa. The content of the shorter isoform was increased by P4 at 24 h, while progesterone receptor antagonist RU486 (10 μM) blocked this effect. PIBF (100 ng/mL) increased the number of U87 cells on days 4 and 5 of treatment and induced cell proliferation on day 4. Wound-healing assays showed that PIBF increased the migration of U87 (12–48 h) and U251 (24 and 48 h) cells. Transwell invasion assays showed that PIBF augmented the number of invasive cells in both cell lines at 24 h. These data suggest that PIBF promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of human glioblastoma cells.
Transient Peripapillary Retinoschisis in Glaucomatous Eyes
Authors: van der Schoot Josine , Vermeer Koenraad A. , Lemij Hans G.
Published: January 2017

Purpose. To investigate transient focal microcystic retinoschisis in glaucomatous eyes in images obtained with several imaging techniques used in daily glaucoma care.Methods. Images of 117 glaucoma patients and 91 healthy subjects participating in a large prospective follow-up study into glaucoma imaging were reviewed. Participants were measured with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), scanning laser polarimetry (SLP), scanning laser tomography (SLT), and standard automated perimetry (SAP). The presence of a focal retinoschisis in SD-OCT was observed and correlated to SLP, SLT, and SAP measurements, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally.Results. Seven out of 117 glaucoma patients showed a transient, localised, peripapillary, heterogeneous microcystic schisis of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and sometimes other retinal layers as well in SD-OCT. None of the healthy eyes showed this phenomenon nor did any of the other imaging techniques display it as detailed and consistently as did the SD-OCT. SAP showed a temporarily decreased focal retinal sensitivity during the retinoschisis and we found no signs of glaucomatous progression related to the retinoschisis.Conclusions. Transient microcystic retinoschisis appears to be associated with glaucomatous wedge defects in the RNFL. It was best observed with SD-OCT and it was absent in healthy eyes. We found no evidence that the retinoschisis predicted glaucomatous progression.
Observer Kalman Filter Identification of Suspen‐Dome
Authors: Sun Guojun , Longman Richard W. , Betti Raimondo , Chen Zhihua , Xue Suduo
Published: January 2017

A number of Suspen‐Dome structures have been built, but there is some difficulty in using experimental data to obtain good modal parameters, especially modal damping. In this paper, an ANSYS numerical simulation of the 35.4 m span Suspen‐Dome is presented. Firstly, the natural vibration characteristics of Suspen‐Dome and dynamic response under some random forces were obtained. Then the results of the numerical simulation established that 60 modes are sufficient for a reasonable dynamic model. This model is used to represent the Suspen‐Dome dynamic behavior, and OKID is then used to try to identify a model from simulated data. A 400‐order model generated from OKID is shown to contain the 60 modes from ANSYS and is shown to give good predictions of the dynamic behavior of Suspen‐Dome. The results of this paper can confirm that it can be a very efficient tool for the identification of models of Suspen‐Dome dynamics.
A Policy-Based Framework for Preserving Confidentiality in BYOD Environments: A Review of Information Security Perspectives
Authors: Vorakulpipat Chalee , Sirapaisan Soontorn , Rattanalerdnusorn Ekkachan , Savangsuk Visut
Published: January 2017

Today, many organizations allow their employees to bring their own smartphones or tablets to work and to access the corporate network, which is known as a bring your own device (BYOD). However, many such companies overlook potential security risks concerning privacy and confidentiality. This paper provides a review of existing literature concerning the preservation of privacy and confidentiality, with a focus on recent trends in the use of BYOD. This review spans a large spectrum of information security research, ranging from management (risk and policy) to technical aspects of privacy and confidentiality in BYOD. Furthermore, this study proposes a policy-based framework for preserving data confidentiality in BYOD. This framework considers a number of aspects of information security and corresponding techniques, such as policy, location privacy, centralized control, cryptography, and operating system level security, which have been omitted in previous studies. The main contribution is to investigate recent trends concerning the preservation of confidentiality in BYOD from the perspective of information security and to analyze the critical and comprehensive factors needed to strengthen data privacy in BYOD. Finally, this paper provides a foundation for developing the concept of preserving confidentiality in BYOD and describes the key technical and organizational challenges faced by BYOD-friendly organizations.
Temperature Dependence Study of Mesa-Type InGaAs/InAlAs Avalanche Photodiode Characteristics
Authors: Huang Jack Jia-Sheng , Chang H. S. , Jan Yu-Heng , Ni C. J. , Chen H. S. , Chou Emin
Published: January 2017

Avalanche photodiodes (APDs) are key optical receivers due to their performance advantages of high speed, high sensitivity, and low noise. The most critical device parameters of APD include the avalanche breakdown voltage and dark current. In this work, we study the temperature dependence of the breakdown voltage and dark current of the mesa-type APD over a wide temperature range of 20–145°C. We institute an empirical model based on impact ionization processes to account for the experimental data. It is shown that highly stable breakdown characteristics of mesa-type APD can be attained with the optimization of the multiplication layer design. We have achieved excellent stability of avalanche breakdown voltage with a temperature coefficient of 0.017 V/°C. The temperature dependence of dark current is attributed to generation-recombination mechanism. The bandgap energy is estimated to be about 0.71 eV based on the temperature variation of dark current, in good agreement with the value for InGaAs.
A Method for Traffic Calming Using Radio Transmitter
Authors: Boroujerdian Amin Mirza , Sheikhy Samane
Published: January 2017

Excessive speed is one of the major factors in transportation safety assessment and is influenced by road geometric design, vehicle properties, and driving pattern. Exploiting innovative methods along with the conventional ones has been proven to be effective in road safety to control the speed limit. In this study, a supplementary tool is introduced to help drivers to observe the speed limit. In line with this objective, the effectiveness of Voice Sign System (VSS) as an Intelligent Transportation System is evaluated. In order to measure the speed, video processing software is used. Moreover, SPSS is utilized to perform statistical analysis and compare upstream and downstream speeds before and after a message transmission. The study is conducted in Yadegar-e-Imam expressway, located in Tehran, to evaluate the effectiveness of a voice message. The message reads as follows: “Observe the Speed Limit.” The results reveal that VSS is an effective tool for speed reduction as well as the speed limit observation in expressways. The study shows that the speed is reduced by 18% on average, and speed limit observation is improved by 46.5%, out of which 18.2% is direct and 28.3% is indirect influence of VSS.
Position Control of the Single Spherical Wheel Mobile Robot by Using the Fuzzy Sliding Mode Controller
Authors: Navabi Hamed , Sadeghnejad Soroush , Ramezani Sepehr , Baltes Jacky
Published: January 2017

A spherical wheel robot or Ballbot—a robot that balances on an actuated spherical ball—is a new and recent type of robot in the popular area of mobile robotics. This paper focuses on the modeling and control of such a robot. We apply the Lagrangian method to derive the governing dynamic equations of the system. We also describe a novel Fuzzy Sliding Mode Controller (FSMC) implemented to control a spherical wheel mobile robot. The nonlinear nature of the equations makes the controller nontrivial. We compare the performance of four different fuzzy controllers: (a) regulation with one signal, (b) regulation and position control with one signal, (c) regulation and position control with two signals, and (d) FSMC for regulation and position control with two signals. The system is evaluated in a realistic simulation and the robot parameters are chosen based on a LEGO platform, so the designed controllers have the ability to be implemented on real hardware.
Bioaerosols, Noise, and Ultraviolet Radiation Exposures for Municipal Solid Waste Handlers
Authors: Ncube France , Ncube Esper Jacobeth , Voyi Kuku
Published: January 2017

Few studies have investigated the occupational hazards of municipal solid waste workers, particularly in developing countries. Resultantly these workers are currently exposed to unknown and unabated occupational hazards that may endanger their health. We determined municipal solid waste workers’ work related hazards and associated adverse health endpoints. A multifaceted approach was utilised comprising bioaerosols sampling, occupational noise, thermal conditions measurement, and field based waste compositional analysis. Results from our current study showed highest exposure concentrations for Gram-negative bacteria (6.8 × 103 cfu/m3) and fungi (12.8 × 103 cfu/m3), in the truck cabins. Significant proportions of toxic, infectious, and surgical waste were observed. Conclusively, municipal solid waste workers are exposed to diverse work related risks requiring urgent sound interventions. A framework for assessing occupational risks of these workers must prioritize performance of exposure assessment with regard to the physical, biological, and chemical hazards of the job.
Protective Effect of Antioxidants on Neuronal Dysfunction and Plasticity in Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Velusamy Thirunavukkarasu , Panneerselvam Archana S. , Purushottam Meera , Anusuyadevi Muthuswamy , Pal Pramod Kumar , Jain Sanjeev , Essa Musthafa Mohamed , Guillemin Gilles J. , Kandasamy Mahesh
Published: January 2017

Huntington’s disease (HD) is characterised by movement disorders, cognitive impairments, and psychiatric problems. The abnormal generation of reactive oxygen species and the resulting oxidative stress‐induced mitochondrial damage in neurons upon CAG mutations in the HTT gene have been hypothesized as the contributing factors of neurodegeneration in HD. The potential use of antioxidants against free radical toxicity has been an emerging field in the management of ageing and many neurodegenerative disorders. Neural stem cells derived adult neurogenesis represents the regenerative capacity of the adult brain. The process of adult neurogenesis has been implicated in the cognitive functions of the brain and is highly modulated positively by different factors including antioxidants. The supportive role of antioxidants to reduce the severity of HD via promoting the functional neurogenesis and neuroprotection in the pathological adult brain has great promise. This review comprehends the recent studies describing the therapeutic roles of antioxidants in HD and other neurologic disorders and highlights the scope of using antioxidants to promote adult neurogenesis in HD. It also advocates a new line of research to delineate the mechanisms by which antioxidants promote adult neurogenesis in HD.
Interorgan Crosstalk Contributing toβ-Cell Dysfunction
Authors: Tanabe Katsuya , Amo-Shiinoki Kikuko , Hatanaka Masayuki , Tanizawa Yukio
Published: January 2017

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) results from pancreaticβ-cell failure in the setting of insulin resistance. In the early stages of this disease, pancreaticβ-cells meet increased insulin demand by both enhancing insulin-secretory capacity and increasingβ-cell mass. As the disease progresses,β-cells fail to maintain these compensatory responses. This involves both extrinsic signals and mediators intrinsic toβ-cells, which adversely affectβ-cells by impairing insulin secretion, decreasing proliferative capacities, and ultimately causing apoptosis. In recent years, it has increasingly been recognized that changes in circulating levels of various factors from other organs play roles inβ-cell dysfunction and cellular loss. In this review, we discuss current knowledge of interorgan communications underlyingβ-cell failure during the progression of T2DM.
Antioxidants of Phyllanthus emblica L. Bark Extract Provide Hepatoprotection against Ethanol‐Induced Hepatic Damage: A Comparison with Silymarin
Authors: Chaphalkar Renuka , Apte Kishori G. , Talekar Yogesh , Ojha Shreesh Kumar , Nandave Mukesh
Published: January 2017

Phyllanthus emblica L. (amla) has been used in Ayurveda as a potent rasayan for treatment of hepatic disorders. Most of the pharmacological studies, however, are largely focused on PE fruit, while the rest of the parts of PE, particularly, bark, remain underinvestigated. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the protective effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of Phyllanthus emblica bark (PEE) in ethanol‐induced hepatotoxicity model in rats. Total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin content and in vitro antioxidant activities were determined by using H2O2 scavenging and ABTS decolorization assays. Our results showed that PEE was rich in total phenols (99.523 ± 1.91 mg GAE/g), total flavonoids (389.33 ± 1.25 mg quercetin hydrate/g), and total tannins (310 ± 0.21 mg catechin/g), which clearly support its strong antioxidant potential. HPTLC‐based quantitative analysis revealed the presence of the potent antioxidants gallic acid (25.05 mg/g) and ellagic acid (13.31 mg/g). Moreover, one‐month PEE treatment (500 and 1000 mg/kg, p.o.) followed by 30‐day 70% ethanol (10 mL/kg) administration showed hepatoprotection as evidenced by significant restoration of ALT (p < 0.01), AST (p < 0.001), ALP (p < 0.05), and TP (p < 0.001) and further confirmed by liver histopathology. PEE‐mediated hepatoprotection could be due to its free radical scavenging and antioxidant activity that may be ascribed to its antioxidant components, namely, ellagic acid and gallic acid. Thus, the results of the present study support the therapeutic claims made in Ayurveda about Phyllanthus emblica.
Establishing an Improved Kane Dynamic Model for the 7‐DOF Reconfigurable Modular Robot
Authors: Li Xiao , Sun Hanxu , Liao Linjing , Song Jingzhou
Published: January 2017

We propose an improved Kane dynamic model theory for the 7‐DOF modular robot in this paper, and the model precision is improved by the improved function . We designed three types of progressive modular joints for reconfigurable modular robot that can be used in industrial robot, space robot, and special robot. The Kane dynamic model and the solid dynamic model are established, respectively, for the 7‐DOF modular robot. After that, the experimental results are obtained from the simulation experiment of typical task in the established dynamic models. By the analysis model of error, the equation of the improved torque is derived and proposed. And the improved Kane dynamic model is established for the modular robot that used . Based on the experimental data, the undetermined coefficient matrix is five‐order linear that was proved in 7‐DOF modular robot. And the explicit formulation is solved of the Kane dynamic model and can be used in control system.
Microvesicles Correlated with Components of Metabolic Syndrome in Men with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Lowered Testosterone Levels But Were Unaltered by Testosterone Therapy
Authors: Botha Jaco , Velling Magnussen Line , Nielsen Morten Hjuler , Nielsen Tine Bo , Højlund Kurt , Andersen Marianne Skovsager , Handberg Aase
Published: January 2017

Aims. To investigate how circulating microvesicle phenotypes correlate with insulin sensitivity, body composition, plasma lipids, and hepatic fat accumulation. We hypothesized that changes elicited by testosterone replacement therapy are reflected in levels of microvesicles. Methods. Thirty-nine type 2 diabetic males with lowered testosterone levels were assigned to either testosterone replacement therapy or placebo and evaluated at baseline and after 24 weeks. Microvesicles were analysed by flow cytometry and defined as lactadherin-binding particles within the 0.1–1.0 μm gate. Microvesicles of platelet, monocyte, and endothelial cell origin were identified by cell-specific markers and their expression of CD36 was investigated. Results. Triglycerides correlated positively with all investigated microvesicle phenotypes in this study (p<0.05), and indicators of hepatic fat accumulation, alanine aminotransferase, and gamma glutamyltransferase correlated with platelet and endothelial microvesicles and CD36-expressing microvesicles from platelets and monocytes (p<0.05). BMI, waist circumference, and fat percentage correlated with CD36-expressing monocyte microvesicles (p<0.05), while insulin sensitivity did not correlate with any microvesicle phenotypes. Microvesicle levels were unaffected by testosterone therapy. Conclusions. Metabolic syndrome components and hepatic fat accumulation correlated with microvesicle phenotypes, supporting the involvement of especially CD36 on monocytes in metabolic syndrome pathogenesis. Although testosterone therapy improved body composition measures, microvesicle phenotype levels were unaffected. This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01560546).