bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obtaining Highly Crystalline Barium Sulphate Nanoparticles via Chemical Precipitation and Quenching in Absence of Polymer Stabilizers
Authors: Sifontes Ángela B. , Cañizales Edgar , Toro-Mendoza Jhoan , Ávila Edward , Hernández Petra , Delgado Blas A. , Gutiérrez G. Brenda , Díaz Yraida , Cruz-Barrios Eliandreina
Published: August 2015

Here we report the synthesis of barium sulphate (BaSO4) nanoparticles from Ba(OH)2/BaCl2 solutions by a combined method of precipitation and quenching in absence of polymer stabilizers. Transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) were employed to characterize the particles. The Scherrer formula was applied to estimate the particle size using the width of the diffraction peaks. The obtained results indicate that the synthesized material is mainly composed of nanocrystalline barite, with nearly spherical morphology, and diameters ranging from 4 to 92 nm. The lattice images of nanoparticles were clearly observed by HRTEM, indicating a high degree of crystallinity and phase purity. In addition, agglomerates with diameters between 20 and 300 nm were observed in both lattice images and dynamic light scattering measurements. The latter allowed obtaining the particle size distribution, the evolution of the aggregate size in time of BaSO4 in aqueous solutions, and the sedimentation rate of these solutions from turbidimetry measurements. A short discussion on the possible medical applications is presented.
Robust Monitor Assignment with Minimum Cost for Sensor Network Tomography
Authors: Liu Xiaojin , Gao Yi , Wu Wenbin , Dong Wei , Bu Jiajun
Published: August 2015

In wired networks, monitor-based network tomography has been proved to be an effective technology for network internal state measurements. Existing wired network tomography approaches assume that the network topology is relatively static. However, the network topology of sensor networks is usually changing over time due to wireless dynamics. In this paper, we study the problem to assign a number of sensor nodes as monitors in large scale sensor networks, so that the end-to-end measurements among monitors can be used to identify hop-by-hop link metrics. We propose RoMA, a Robust Monitor Assignment, algorithm to assign monitors in large scale sensor networks with dynamically changing topology. RoMA includes two components, confidence-based robust topology generation and cost-minimized monitor assignment. We implement RoMA and evaluate its performance based on a deployed large scale sensor network. Results show that RoMA achieves high identifiability with dynamically changing topology and is able to assign monitors with minimum cost.
Nodular Elastosis of the Pancreas
Authors: Wedel Whitney , Talmon Geoffrey , Sasson Aaron
Published: August 2015

Elastofibromatous change is a benign process that has been increasingly recognized in the tubular gastrointestinal tract. These changes can present as a colonic polyp or be seen in conjunction with inflammatory changes. Similar lesions have been noted in the liver, apparently associated with vascular injury. We describe a case in which multiple circumscribed nodules of elastofibromatous change within the pancreas had a similar morphology to nodular elastosis of the liver. To our knowledge, this is the first description of such a finding occurring within the pancreas.
An Evolutionary Algorithm for Multiobjective Fuzzy Portfolio Selection Models with Transaction Cost and Liquidity
Authors: Yue Wei , Wang Yuping , Dai Cai
Published: August 2015

The major issues for mean-variance-skewness models are the errors in estimations that cause corner solutions and low diversity in the portfolio. In this paper, a multiobjective fuzzy portfolio selection model with transaction cost and liquidity is proposed to maintain the diversity of portfolio. In addition, we have designed a multiobjective evolutionary algorithm based on decomposition of the objective space to maintain the diversity of obtained solutions. The algorithm is used to obtain a set of Pareto-optimal portfolios with good diversity and convergence. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model and algorithm, the performance of the proposed algorithm is compared with the classic MOEA/D and NSGA-II through some numerical examples based on the data of the Shanghai Stock Exchange Market. Simulation results show that our proposed algorithm is able to obtain better diversity and more evenly distributed Pareto front than the other two algorithms and the proposed model can maintain quite well the diversity of portfolio. The purpose of this paper is to deal with portfolio problems in the weighted possibilistic mean-variance-skewness (MVS) and possibilistic mean-variance-skewness-entropy (MVS-E) frameworks with transaction cost and liquidity and to provide different Pareto-optimal investment strategies as diversified as possible for investors at a time, rather than one strategy for investors at a time.
Refractory Epistaxis due to Severe Factor V Deficiency with Inhibitor
Authors: John Elizabeth S. , Patel Minesh D. , Hajdenberg Julio
Published: August 2015

Factor V deficiency secondary to inhibitors is extremely rare and can be caused by a wide collection of exposures such as bovine thrombin and beta lactamase antibiotics. The management of factor V deficiency with inhibitor is a condition treated based on case reports due to the rarity of this condition. We describe a complicated case of an elderly patient with severe factor V deficiency with high inhibitor titer refractory to FEIBA (anti-inhibitor coagulation complex) treated with NovoSeven concurrently with cyclosporine immunosuppression and Rituxan. Given that there are no consensus guidelines on treatment, this case offers important insight into the therapeutic approaches that can be used to treat such patients.
Scattering State of Klein-Gordon Particles by q-Parameter Hyperbolic Poschl-Teller Potential
Authors: Ikot Akpan Ndem , Obong Hillary P. , Owate Israel O. , Onyeaju Michael C. , Hassanabadi Hassan
Published: August 2015

The one-dimensional Klein-Gordon equation for equal vector and scalar q-parameter hyperbolic Poschl-Teller potential is solved in terms of the hypergeometric functions. We calculate in detail the solutions of the scattering and bound states. By virtue of the conditions of equation of continuity of the wave functions, we obtained explicit expressions for the reflection and transmission coefficients and energy equation for the bound state solutions.
Two Case Presentations Infected byTrichosporon asahiiand Treated with Voriconazole Successfully
Authors: Tanyildiz Hikmet Gulsah , Yesil Sule , Toprak Sule , Candir Mehmet Onur , Sahin Gurses
Published: August 2015

Background.Trichosporon asahiiis an opportunistic fungus that causes infections in immunosuppressed patients. Neutropenia developing due to malignancies is an important risk factor for fungal infection.Case Report.We present two pediatric oncology cases successfully treated with voriconazole afterT. asahiiinfection that is known to cause fatal sepsis and invasive fungal infection.Conclusion.There is no conclusive evidence that the antifungal agent voriconazole is effective in the neutropenic patients infected withTrichosporon asahii. Liposomal amphotericin B has also been reported to be inadequate for treatment.We believe that our patients were successfully treated and survived because the antifungal agents were started early and properly, although the infection can be fatal in up to 80% of cases despite treatment.
Multicystic Benign Mesothelioma Complicating Pregnancy
Authors: Tamhankar V. A.
Published: August 2015

Multicystic benign mesothelioma (MBM) is a rare peritoneal pathology typically affecting women in reproductive age. Though MBM is considered benign, these lesions are prone to recurrence and their growth could be modulated by the presence of oestrogen receptors. Acute presentation of MBM is still very rare in pregnancy and management options are not established. We describe a case of MBM presenting in early pregnancy with acute pain. This was successfully treated with surgical resection. Pregnancy continued uneventfully to term and no evidence of recurrent MBM was found at Caesarean section.
Effect and Potential Mechanism of Electroacupuncture Add-On Treatment in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Wang Fang , Sun Li , Zhang Xiao-zhe , Jia Jun , Liu Zhuo , Huang Xi-yan , Yu Shu-yang , Zuo Li-jun , Cao Chen-jie , Wang Xiao-min , Zhang Wei
Published: August 2015

Objectives. To explore effectiveness and mechanisms of electroacupuncture (EA) add-on treatment in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients.Methods. Fifty PD patients were randomly assigned to drug plus EA (D + EA) group and drug alone (D) group. Subjects in D + EA group received stimulation in points of bilateral fengfu, fengchi, hegu, and central dazhui. Participants were evaluated by scales for motor and nonmotor symptoms. Levels of neuroinflammatory factors and neurotransmitters in serum were detected.Results. EA add-on treatment remarkably reduced scores of Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) III and its subitems of tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia and conspicuously decreased UPDRS III scores in patients with bradykinesia-rigidity and mixed types and mild severity. Depression and sleep disturbances were eased, which were reflected by decreased scores of Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and elevated noradrenaline level. Effects of EA add-on treatment on motor symptoms and sleep disturbances were superior to drug alone treatment, markedly improving life quality of PD patients. EA add-on treatment decreased nitric oxide level in serum.Conclusions. EA add-on treatment is effective on most motor symptoms and some nonmotor symptoms and is particularly efficacious in PD patients at early stage. Antineuroinflammation may be a mechanism of EA add-on treatment.
Evading Capture by Residual Disease Monitoring: Extramedullary Manifestation ofJAK2V617F-Positive Primary Myelofibrosis After Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Langabeer Stephen E. , Nolan James , Haslam Karl , Clarke Lindsey , Flavin Richard , Conneally Eibhlin
Published: August 2015

Monitoring of theJAK2V617F allele burden in myeloproliferative neoplasms after allogeneic stem cell transplantation is useful to determine levels of residual disease and has the potential to detect early relapse and guide subsequent clinical intervention. A case is described of aJAK2V617F-positive primary myelofibrosis patient who underwent allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Prospective residual disease monitoring of the peripheral blood failed to detect an extramedullary manifestation of the disease, a periorbital myeloid sarcoma, arising nearly three years after transplant. This case serves to highlight a pitfall in residual disease monitoring for myeloproliferative neoplasm-associated mutations in the post-allogeneic stem cell transplantation setting.
Knowledge and Practice on Prevention of Respiratory Health Problems among Traffic Police in Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Aryal Bhandari Ambika , Gautam Roshani , Bhandari Shiva
Published: August 2015

Introduction. Traffic police in Kathmandu are continuously exposed to air pollution and are at an increased health risk. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice regarding prevention of respiratory problems among traffic police in Kathmandu. Methods. A descriptive exploratory study was conducted among the traffic police (n=83) working in six areas of the Kathmandu Metropolis from July to August 2013. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to all the participants. Results. The mean age (±SD) of the respondents was 28.8 ± 4.3 years. More than half of the respondents had 6–10 years of work experience, the mean (±SD) years of experience being 7.9 (±3.6). The level of knowledge regarding the prevention of respiratory problems was better than the level of practice among the respondents. Education of the participants did not affect the level of practice of the respondents while there was association between working experience and level of practice (p=0.04). Conclusion. Since the preventive practice is poor, the government should come up with plans such as distribution of antipollution masks to improve the level of practice among traffic police to prevent respiratory problems.
Rapid Discrimination for Traditional Complex Herbal Medicines from Different Parts, Collection Time, and Origins Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography and Near-Infrared Spectral Fingerprints with Aid of Pattern Recognition Methods
Authors: Fu Haiyan , Fan Yao , Zhang Xu , Lan Hanyue , Yang Tianming , Shao Mei , Li Sihan
Published: August 2015

As an effective method, the fingerprint technique, which emphasized the whole compositions of samples, has already been used in various fields, especially in identifying and assessing the quality of herbal medicines. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and near-infrared (NIR), with their unique characteristics of reliability, versatility, precision, and simple measurement, played an important role among all the fingerprint techniques. In this paper, a supervised pattern recognition method based on PLSDA algorithm by HPLC and NIR has been established to identify the information ofHibiscus mutabilisL. andBerberidis radix, two common kinds of herbal medicines. By comparing component analysis (PCA), linear discriminant analysis (LDA), and particularly partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA) with different fingerprint preprocessing of NIR spectra variables, PLSDA model showed perfect functions on the analysis of samples as well as chromatograms. Most important, this pattern recognition method by HPLC and NIR can be used to identify different collection parts, collection time, and different origins or various species belonging to the same genera of herbal medicines which proved to be a promising approach for the identification of complex information of herbal medicines.
Butterfly‐Inspired 2D Periodic Tapered‐Staggered Subwavelength Gratings Designed Based on Finite Difference Time Domain Method
Authors: Wang Houxiao , Zhou Wei , Li Er Ping , Mote Rakesh Ganpat
Published: August 2015

The butterfly‐inspired 2D periodic tapered‐staggered subwavelength gratings were developed mainly using finite difference time domain (FDTD) method, assisted by using focused ion beam (FIB) nanoscale machining or fabrication. The periodic subwavelength structures along the ridges of the designed gratings may change the electric field intensity distribution and weaken the surface reflection. The performance of the designed SiO2 gratings is similar to that of the corresponding Si gratings (the predicted reflectance can be less than around 5% for the bandwidth ranging from 0.15 μm to 1 μm). Further, the antireflection performance of the designed x‐unspaced gratings is better than that of the corresponding x‐spaced gratings. Based on the FDTD designs and simulated results, the butterfly‐inspired grating structure was fabricated on the silicon wafer using FIB milling, reporting the possibility to fabricate these FDTD‐designed subwavelength grating structures.
Ex VivoNicotine Stimulation Augments the Efficacy of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell-Derived Dendritic Cell Vaccination via Activating Akt-S6 Pathway
Authors: Wang Yan Yan , Yang Yi Wen , You Xiang , Deng Xiao Qian , Hu Chun Fang , Zhu Cong , Wang Jun Yao , Gu Jiao Jiao , Wang Yi Nan , Li Qing , Gao Feng Guang
Published: August 2015

Our previous studies showed thatα7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAchR) agonist nicotine has stimulatory effects on murine bone marrow-derived semimature DCs, but the effect of nicotine on peripheral blood mononuclear cell- (PBMC-) derived human semimature dendritic cells (hu-imDCs) is still to be clarified. In the present study, hu-imDCs (cultured 4 days) were conferred with  ex vivolower dose nicotine stimulation and the effect of nicotine on surface molecules expression, the ability of cross-presentation, DCs-mediated PBMC priming, and activated signaling pathways were determined. We could demonstrate that the treatment with nicotine resulted in increased surface molecules expression, enhanced hu-imDCs-mediated PBMC proliferation, upregulated release of IL-12 in the supernatant of cocultured DCs-PBMC, and augmented phosphorylation of Akt and ribosomal protein S6. Nicotine associated with traces of LPS efficiently enhanced endosomal translocation of internalized ovalbumin (OVA) and increased TAP-OVA colocalization. Importantly, the upregulation of nicotine-increased surface molecules upregulation was significantly abrogated by the inhibition of Akt kinase. These findings demonstrate thatex vivonicotine stimulation augments hu-imDCs surface molecules expression via Akt-S6 pathway, combined with increased Ag-presentation result in augmented efficacy of DCs-mediated PBMC proliferation and Th1 polarization.
Factors Affecting Cirrus-HD OCT Optic Disc Scan Quality: A Review with Case Examples
Authors: Hardin Joshua S. , Taibbi Giovanni , Nelson Seth C. , Chao Diana , Vizzeri Gianmarco
Published: August 2015

Spectral-domain OCT is an established tool to assist clinicians in detecting glaucoma and monitor disease progression. The widespread use of this imaging modality is due, at least in part, to continuous hardware and software advancements. However, recent evidence indicates that OCT scan artifacts are frequently encountered in clinical practice. Poor image quality invariably challenges the interpretation of test results, with potential implications for the care of glaucoma patients. Therefore, adequate knowledge of various imaging artifacts is necessary. In this work, we describe several factors affecting Cirrus HD-OCT optic disc scan quality and their effects on measurement variability.
Acute Renal Failure due to Obstructive Uropathy Secondary to Ureteral Endometriosis
Authors: Choi Jeong In , Yoo Jee Geun , Kim Sa Jin , Lee Hae Nam , Kim Min Jeong
Published: August 2015

Ureteral involvement by endometriosis is a rare and often silent disease but capable of producing significant morbidity and leading to hydronephrosis and to renal failure. Surgery is the treatment of choice to remove endometriotic lesions and relieve ureteral obstruction if the kidney is still functional or a nephrectomy is performed if there is a complete loss of renal function. We report a case of acute renal failure induced ureteral endometriosis managed with laparoscopic unilateral nephrectomy and endometrioma cystectomy. Differential diagnosis is important to confirm diagnosis for patients with ureteral obstruction presenting nonspecific symptoms.
Extratemporal Malignant Nerve Sheath Tumor of Facial Nerve with Coexistent Intratemporal Neurofibroma Mimicking Malignant Intratemporal Extension
Authors: Nakahira Mitsuhiko , Saito Naoko , Sugasawa Masashi
Published: August 2015

We present an extremely unusual case of an extratemporal facial nerve malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) arising from preexistent intratemporal neurofibroma, illustrating a difficulty in discriminating between perineural spread of the MPNST and the preexistent intratemporal neurofibroma on preoperative radiographic images. The most interesting point was that preoperative CT scan and MR images led to misinterpretation that MPNST extended proximally along the facial nerve canal. It is important to recognize that the intratemporal perineural spread of neurofibromas and MPNST share common imaging characteristics. This is the first report (to our knowledge) of these 2 lesions coexisting in the facial nerve, leading to misinterpretation on preoperative images.
Is Stimulated Thyroglobulin Necessary after Ablation in All Patients with Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma and Basal Thyroglobulin Detectable by a Second-Generation Assay?
Authors: Rosario Pedro Weslley , Franco Mourão Gabriela , Calsolari Maria Regina
Published: August 2015

Objective. To evaluate the percentage of elevated stimulated thyroglobulin (sTg) and persistent or recurrent disease (PRD) in patients with detectable basal Tg < 0.3 ng/mL.Methods. The sample consisted of 130 patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) who were at low risk of PRD and who had neck ultrasound (US) without abnormalities, negative anti-Tg antibodies (TgAb), and detectable basal Tg < 0.3 ng/mL about 6 months after ablation.Results. sTg was <1 ng/mL in 88 patients (67.7%), between 1 and 2 ng/mL in 26 (20%), and ≥2 ng/mL in 16 (12.3%). Imaging methods revealed the absence of tumors in 16 patients with elevated sTg. During follow-up, Tg increased to 0.58 ng/mL in one patient and lymph node metastases were detected. Sixty-nine patients continued to have detectable Tg < 0.3 ng/mL and US revealed recurrence in only one patient. Sixty patients progressed to persistently undetectable Tg without apparent disease on US.Conclusions. In low-risk patients with PTC who have detectable basal Tg < 0.3 ng/mL after ablation, negative TgAb, and US, persistent disease is rare and eventual recurrences can be detected by basal Tg elevation and/or subsequent US assessments, with follow-up without sTg being an “alternative” to Tg stimulation.
Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Carbonylated Proteins from the Striatum and Cortex of Pesticide-Treated Mice
Authors: Coughlan Christina , Walker Douglas I. , Lohr Kelly M. , Richardson Jason R. , Saba Laura M. , Caudle W. Michael , Fritz Kristofer S. , Roede James R.
Published: August 2015

Epidemiological studies indicate exposures to the herbicide paraquat (PQ) and fungicide maneb (MB) are associated with increased risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Oxidative stress appears to be a premier mechanism that underlies damage to the nigrostriatal dopamine system in PD and pesticide exposure. Enhanced oxidative stress leads to lipid peroxidation and production of reactive aldehydes; therefore, we conducted proteomic analyses to identify carbonylated proteins in the striatum and cortex of pesticide-treated mice in order to elucidate possible mechanisms of toxicity. Male C57BL/6J mice were treated biweekly for 6 weeks with saline, PQ (10 mg/kg), MB (30 mg/kg), or the combination of PQ and MB (PQMB). Treatments resulted in significant behavioral alterations in all treated mice and depleted striatal dopamine in PQMB mice. Distinct differences in 4-hydroxynonenal-modified proteins were observed in the striatum and cortex. Proteomic analyses identified carbonylated proteins and peptides from the cortex and striatum, and pathway analyses revealed significant enrichment in a variety of KEGG pathways. Further analysis showed enrichment in proteins of the actin cytoskeleton in treated samples, but not in saline controls. These data indicate that treatment-related effects on cytoskeletal proteins could alter proper synaptic function, thereby resulting in impaired neuronal function and even neurodegeneration.
Preparation and Electrocatalytic Performance of Bi-Modified Quartz Column Particle Electrode for Phenol Degradation
Authors: Huang Jiguo , Chen Haitao , Pang Shuo , Liu Gang , Cui Huanyu , Dong Lili , Liu Xingjuan
Published: August 2015

Bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) and its composites have good electrocatalytic performance. Quartz column is a good kind of catalyst carrier with the characteristics of high mechanical strength and good stability. A novel Bi-modified quartz column particle electrode (BQP) was prepared by the dipping-calcination method. The characterization results revealed that Bi2O3was successfully loaded on quartz column. The optimum preparation condition was calcining at 550°C for 4 h. Electrocatalytic performance was evaluated by the degradation of phenol and the results indicated that the triclinic phase of Bi2O3showed the best electrocatalytic property. Besides, when the dosage concentration of the particle electrode was 125 g/L and the electrolytic voltage was 12 V, the degradation rate of phenol (200 mg/L) reached the highest (94.25%), compared with 70.00% of that in two-dimensional (2D) system. In addition, the removal rate of chemical oxygen demand (COD) was 75.50%, compared with 53.30% of that in 2D system. The reusability and regeneration of BQP were investigated and the results were good. Mechanism of enhanced electrochemical oxidation by BQP was evaluated by the capture of hydroxyl radical.
A Privacy-Preserving Continuous Location Monitoring System for Location-Based Services
Authors: Song Doohee , Sim Jongwon , Park Kwangjin , Song Moonbae
Published: August 2015

To protect users’ private locations in location-based services, various location anonymization techniques have been proposed. The most commonly used technique is spatial cloaking, which organizes users’ exact locations into cloaked regions (CRs). This satisfies the K-anonymity requirement; that is, the querier is not distinguishable among K users within the CR. However, the practicality of cloaking techniques is limited due to the lack of privacy-preserving query processing capacity, for example, providing answers to the user's spatial queries based on knowledge of the user's cloaked location rather than the exact location. This paper proposes a cloaking system model called anonymity of motion vectors (AMV) that provides anonymity for spatial queries. The proposed AMV minimizes the CR of a mobile user using motion vectors. In addition, the AMV creates a ranged search area that includes the nearest neighbor (NN) objects to the querier who issued a CR-based query. The effectiveness of the proposed AMV is demonstrated in simulated experiments.
Management of Gliomas: Overview of the Latest Technological Advancements and Related Behavioral Drawbacks
Authors: Ganau L. , Paris M. , Ligarotti G. K. , Ganau M.
Published: August 2015

The advancements in basic sciences and the availability of sophisticated technological aids to surgical removal of gliomas have led over the last few years to the rise of innovative surgical strategies, the identification of better prognostic/predictive biomolecular factors, and the development of novel drugs and all are meant to profoundly impact the outcome of patients diagnosed with these aggressive tumours. Unfortunately, the treatment protocols available nowadays still confer only a small survival advantage at a potentially high cost in terms of overall well-being. In this review we identified the potential and limits of the most promising research trends in the management of glioma patients, also highlighting the related externalities. Finally, we focused our attention on the imbalance between the technical and behavioral aspects pertinent to this research area, which ultimately represent the two sides of the same coin.
Radial Neck Osteotomy for Malunion of Radial Neck Fracture in Childhood
Authors: Vandergugten Simon , Troussel Serge , Lefebvre Bernard
Published: August 2015

In a case of a neglected radial neck fracture in childhood, the management of initial fracture and its complications are subjected to discussion. In children, open reduction should be avoided but an angulation less than 30° must be obtained. Several techniques exist to manage symptomatic malunion in adults, including resection, prosthesis, and osteotomy. When performing an osteotomy, it is important first to preserve an intact osseous hinge to avoid avascular necrosis and second to align the edge of the radial head articular surface with the lateral edge of the coronoid process, in order to avoid overstuffing elbow joint.
Periodontal Biological Events Associated with Orthodontic Tooth Movement: The Biomechanics of the Cytoskeleton and the Extracellular Matrix
Authors: Feller L. , Khammissa R. A. G. , Schechter I. , Moodley A. , Thomadakis G. , Lemmer J.
Published: August 2015

The mechanical stimuli generated by orthodontic forces cause deformation of extracellular matrices and cells, vascular changes, inflammation, and the release of active biological agents generating a complex multifactorial sequence of biological events culminating in bone remodelling enabling orthodontic tooth movement. Orthodontic forces on the teeth generate stresses in periodontal tissues according to a number of variables including the type (continuous, interrupted, or intermittent), magnitude, direction, and frequency of the applied load. Whether the strain is compressive or tensile determines whether bone deposition or bone resorption will occur. The mechanically induced strains mediate structural changes in extracellular matrices and in cells, consequently affecting cellular gene expression and function. In the extracellular matrix, mechanosensing molecules integrated into the structure of various proteins can be activated upon load‐induced protein unfolding. These specialized molecules have the capacity to sense and then to convert microenvironmental biomechanical stimuli into intracellular biochemical signals that interact to generate a coordinated tissue response. It is also possible that the applied force may directly cause nuclear deformation with configurational changes in chromatin, thus influencing gene expression. In this review article we summarize the current general concepts of mechanotransduction influencing the remodelling of periodontal tissues thus enabling tooth movement in response to applied orthodontic loads.
Intraoperative Radiotherapy in the Management of Locally Recurrent Extremity Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Authors: Tinkle Christopher L. , Weinberg Vivian , Braunstein Steve E. , Wustrack Rosanna , Horvai Andrew , Jahan Thierry , O’Donnell Richard J. , Gottschalk Alexander R.
Published: August 2015

Purpose. To investigate the efficacy and morbidity of limb-sparing surgery with intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) for patients with locally recurrent extremity soft tissue sarcoma (ESTS).Methods and Materials. Twenty-six consecutively treated patients were identified in a single institution retrospective analysis of patients with locally recurrent ESTS treated with IORT following salvage limb-sparing resection from May 2000 to July 2011. Fifteen (58%) patients received external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) prior to recurrence (median dose 63 Gy), while 11 (42%) patients received EBRT following IORT (median dose 52 Gy). The Kaplan-Meier product limit method was used to estimate disease control and survival and subsets were compared using a log rank statistic, Cox’s regression model was used to determine independent predictors of disease outcome, and toxicity was reported according to CTCAE v4.0 guidelines.Results. With a median duration of follow-up from surgery and IORT of 34.9 months (range: 4 to 139 mos.), 10 patients developed a local recurrence with 4 subsequently undergoing amputation. The 5-year estimate for local control (LC) was 58% (95% CI: 36–75%), for amputation-free was 81% (95% CI: 57–93%), for metastasis-free control (MFC) was 56% (95% CI: 31–75%), for disease-free survival (DFS) was 35% (95% CI: 17–54%), and for overall survival (OS) was 50% (95% CI: 24–71%). Prior EBRT did not appear to influence disease control (LC,p=0.74; MFC,p=0.66) or survival (DFS,p=0.16; OS,p=0.58). Grade 3 or higher acute and late toxicities were reported for 6 (23%) and 8 (31%) patients, respectively. The frequency of both acute and late grade 3 or higher toxicities occurred equally between patients who received EBRT prior to or after IORT.Conclusions. IORT in combination with oncologic resection of recurrent ESTS yields good rates of local control and limb-salvage with acceptable morbidity. Within the limitations of small subsets, these data suggest that prior EBRT does not significantly influence disease control or toxicity.
The Contribution of a “Supportive Community” Program for Older Persons in Israel to Their Offspring Who Are Primary Caregivers
Authors: Even-Zohar Ahuva
Published: August 2015

The “supportive community” programs in Israel provide a basket of services for older persons living in their own homes. This study examined the differences between caregiver burden and quality of life of 55 offspring who were the primary caregivers of their older parents who were members of a supportive community, compared to 64 offspring whose parents were nonmembers. The findings showed that the role stress factor of caregiving burden was lower, and the psychological health domain of quality of life was higher among offspring whose parents were members of supportive communities. Some of the predictor variables of burden were income status of caregiver, sharing with others in caregiving, and membership of the parent in a supportive community. The primary predictor variable of the quality of life was caregiving burden. The practical conclusion of this study is to further develop and market supportive community programs in various communities.
Material Selection in Engineering Design Using Choquet Integral-Based Linguistic Operators under Hybrid Environment
Authors: Peng Anhua , Wen Xiqin , Wu Kaibo
Published: August 2015

The performance of phase change materials directly influences the performance and cost of thermal energy storage, and it is the first important task to select the suitable phase change materials for use in a particular kind of applications. Due to the decision maker’s knowledge field and the nature of evaluated attributes, assessments are always with different formats, which were first unified into the linguistic terms in the basic linguistic term set. Two-additive fuzzy measures were used to model criteria interactions by pairs, and the special expressions of Marichal entropy and Choquet integral were derived, more convenient to use in practice. Fuzzy measures were identified based on the maximum of Marichal entropy, and, based on the Choquet integral, the linguistic hybrid weighted geometric averaging with interaction was developed for integrating the individual attributes’ ratings. The detailed decision making procedure was illustrated, with the material 33.2Cu as the optimal solution, which by comparison is reasonable and trustworthy.
Influence of Diatomite and Mineral Powder on Thermal Oxidative Ageing Properties of Asphalt
Authors: Cheng Yongchun , Tao Jinglin , Jiao Yubo , Guo Qinglin , Li Chao
Published: August 2015

Ageing of asphalt affects the performances of asphalt pavement significantly. Therefore, effects of diatomite and mineral powder on ageing properties of asphalt were investigated systematically in order to improve the antiageing property of mixture. Thin film oven test (TFOT) was used to conduct the short term ageing in laboratory. Softening points, penetrations, force ductility, low temperature creep properties, and viscosities of asphalt mastics were tested before and after TFOT, respectively. Results indicated that percent retained penetration (PRP) increased with the increasing of fillers. Increment of softening point (ΔT), ductility retention rate (DRR), deformation energy ageing index (JAI), and viscosity ageing index (VAI) of asphalt mastics nonlinearly decreased with the increasing of fillers. Ageing of asphalt was reduced by diatomite and mineral powder. And the antiageing effect of diatomite was better than that of mineral powder as a result of its porous structure. It is suggested that the mineral powder could be reasonably replaced by diatomite in order to reduce thermal oxidative ageing of asphalt mixture. The optimal content of diatomite 12.8% is also suggested for engineering.
The Rationale, Feasibility, and Optimal Training of the Non-Physician Medical Nutrition Scientist
Authors: Ettinger Susan E. , Nasser Jennifer A. , Engelson Ellen S. , Albu Jeanine B. , Hashim Sami , Pi-Sunyer F. Xavier
Published: August 2015

Dietary components have potential to arrest or modify chronic disease processes including obesity, cancer, and comorbidities. However, clinical research to translate mechanistic nutrition data into clinical interventions is needed. We have developed a one-year transitional postdoctoral curriculum to prepare nutrition scientists in the language and practice of medicine and in clinical research methodology before undertaking independent research. Candidates with an earned doctorate in nutrition science receive intensive, didactic training at the interface of nutrition and medicine, participate in supervised medical observerships, and join ongoing clinical research. To date, we have trained four postdoctoral fellows. Formative evaluation revealed several learning barriers to this training, including deficits in prior medical science knowledge and diverse perceptions of the role of the translational nutrition scientist. Several innovative techniques to address these barriers are discussed. We propose the fact that this “train the trainer” approach has potential to create a new translational nutrition researcher competent to identify clinical problems, collaborate with clinicians and researchers, and incorporate nutrition science across disciplines from “bench to bedside.” We also expect the translational nutrition scientist to serve as an expert resource to the medical team in use of nutrition as adjuvant therapy for the prevention and management of chronic disease.
Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Ameliorates Endothelial Dysfunction in Radiation-Induced Bladder Injury
Authors: Zhang Shiwei , Qiu Xuefeng , Zhang Yanting , Fu Kai , Zhao Xiaozhi , Wu Jinhui , Hu Yiqiao , Zhu Weiming , Guo Hongqian
Published: August 2015

This study was designed to explore the effect of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on radiation-induced endothelial dysfunction and histological changes in the urinary bladder. bFGF was administrated to human umbilical vein cells (HUVEC) or urinary bladder immediately after radiation. Reduced expression of thrombomodulin (TM) was indicated in the HUVEC and urinary bladder after treatment with radiation. Decreased apoptosis was observed in HUVEC treated with bFGF. Administration of bFGF increased the expression of TM in HUVEC medium, as well as in the urinary bladder at the early and delayed phases of radiation-induced bladder injury (RIBI). At the early phase, injection of bFGF increased the thickness of urothelium and reduced inflammation within the urinary bladder. At the delayed phase, bFGF was effective in reducing fibrosis within the urinary bladder. Our results indicate that endothelial dysfunction is a prominent feature of RIBI. Administration of bFGF can ameliorate radiation-induced endothelial dysfunction in urinary bladder and preserve bladder histology at early and delayed phases of RIBI.
Minimal Change Disease as a Secondary and Reversible Event of a Renal Transplant Case with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Gkrouzman Elena , Kirou Kyriakos A. , Seshan Surya V. , Chevalier James M.
Published: August 2015

Secondary causes of minimal change disease (MCD) account for a minority of cases compared to its primary or idiopathic form and provide ground for consideration of common mechanisms of pathogenesis. In this paper we report a case of a 27-year-old Latina woman, a renal transplant recipient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), who developed nephrotic range proteinuria 6 months after transplantation. The patient had recurrent acute renal failure and multiple biopsies were consistent with MCD. However, she lacked any other features of the typical nephrotic syndrome. An angiogram revealed a right external iliac vein stenosis in the region of renal vein anastomosis, which when restored resulted in normalization of creatinine and relief from proteinuria. We report a rare case of MCD developing secondary to iliac vein stenosis in a renal transplant recipient with SLE. Additionally we suggest that, in the event of biopsy-proven MCD presenting as an atypical nephrotic syndrome, alternative or secondary, potentially reversible, causes should be considered and explored.
Retrograde Intramedullary Nailing for Femoral Shaft Fractures in Elderly Patients with Previous Ipsilateral Dynamic Hip Screw Fixation
Authors: Iyengar Karthikeyan P. , Matar Hosam E. , Nadkarni Jayant B.
Published: August 2015

Purpose: We present our experience in managing femoral shaft fractures in elderly patients with previous ipsilateral dynamic hip screw fixation for extracapsular neck of femur fractures using retrograde intramedullary nailing implants. Methods: This was a prospective consecutive study of patients presenting with a femoral shaft fracture and an ipsilateral dynamic hip screw fixation treated with unreamed retrograde femoral nailing. The Wilde modification of the Neer knee score was used as a primary outcome measure. Results: A total of 16 patients were included (5 males, 11 females), with a mean age of 82 years (range 74-101). All fractures were closed and were due to low-energy trauma. There were 7 patients with 32-A1 fractures, 5 patients with 32-A2 fractures and 4 patients with 32-B1 fractures. All patients had an ipsilateral 4-hole plate dynamic hip screw implant. Minor surgical complications were recorded in 5 patients. Two patients died due to medical complications and were excluded from the final analysis. All remaining 14 patients achieved satisfactory outcomes at 12 months of follow-up with a mean Wilde modification of the Neer knee score of 15.5 (SD 2.53; range 13-20). Conclusions: Unreamed retrograde femoral nailing can achieve good functional recovery in elderly patients with a femoral shaft fracture and a previous ipsilateral dynamic hip screw fixation.
«Blütenbaum»-Zeichen: Nicht nur an infektiöse Ursachen denken
Authors: Terhalle Elena , Günther Gunar
Published: August 2015

Die hochauflösende Computertomografie (high-resolution computed tomography; HRCT) ist ein wichtiges diagnostisches Instrument in der Pneumologie. Das «Blütenbaum»-Zeichen ist ein häufiger Befund in HRCT-Scans. Zu den häufigsten Differenzialdiagnosen beim «Blütenbaum»-Zeichen zählen Infektionen mit Mycobacterium tuberculosis, nichttuberkulösen Mykobakterien und anderen pathogenen Bakterien, Pilzen oder Viren. Weitere mögliche Gründe sind immunologische, kongenitale und idiopathische Erkrankungen sowie die Aspiration oder Inhalation von toxischen Substanzen. Maligne Erkrankungen sind selten vorkommende Differenzialdiagnosen. Wir stellen einen Fall mit «Blütenbaum»-förmiger pulmonaler Infiltration einer chronischen lymphatischen Leukämie vor, die nur durch transbronchiale Biopsien diagnostiziert werden konnte, und gehen auf andere Differenzialdiagnosen ein.
Multiscale Characterization of Impact of Infarct Size on Myocardial Remodeling in an Ovine Infarct Model
Authors: Zhang Pei , Li Tielou , Griffith Bartley P. , Wu Zhongjun J.
Published: August 2015

The surviving myocardium initially compensates the loss of injured myocardium after myocardial infarction (MI) and gradually becomes progressively dysfunctional. There have been limited studies on the effect of infarct size on temporal and spatial alterations in the myocardium during progressive myocardial remodeling. MI with three infarct sizes, i.e. 15, 25 and 35% of the left ventricular (LV) wall, was created in an ovine infarction model. The progressive LV remodeling over a 12-week period was studied. Echocardiography, sonomicrometry, and histological and molecular analyses were carried out to evaluate cardiac function, regional tissue contractile function, structural remodeling and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, and calcium handling proteins. Twelve weeks after MI, the 15, 25 and 35% MI groups had normalized LV end diastole volumes of 1.4 ± 0.2, 1.7 ± 0.3 and 2.0 ± 0.4 ml/kg, normalized end systole volumes of 1.0 ± 0.1, 1.0 ± 0.2 and 1.3 ± 0.3 ml/kg and LV ejection fractions of 43 ± 3, 42 ± 6 and 34 ± 4%, respectively. They all differed from the sham group (p < 0.05). All the three MI groups exhibited larger wall areal expansion (remodeling strain), larger cardiomyocyte size and altered expression of calcium handing proteins in the adjacent myocardium compared to the remote counterpart from the infarct. A significant correlation was found between cardiomyocyte size and remodeling strain in the adjacent zone. A comparative analysis among the three MI groups showed that a larger infarct size (35 vs. 15% MI) was associated with larger remodeling strain, more serious impairment in the cellular structure and composition, and regional contractile function at regional tissue level and LV function at organ level.
Sodium Citrate Inhibits Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Rats with Adenine-Induced Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Ou Yan , Hou Wenqian , Li Shuiqin , Zhu Xiaojing , Lin Yan , Han Jin , Duan Zhaoyang , Gui Baosong
Published: August 2015

Background/Aims: Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is an important self-protective cellular response to harmful stimuli that contribute to various diseases, including chronic renal failure (CRF). Sodium citrate plays an important role in antioxidant and cellular immunity, but whether it improves ERS in CRF is unclear. Methods: The rats were randomly divided into five groups: the control group, the sodium citrate control group, the model group, model rats with low dose sodium citrate (216 mg/kg), and model rats with a high dose of sodium citrate (746 mg/kg). The rats were euthanized at 6, 8, 12, and 16 weeks with their blood and renal tissue in detection. Results: The increased concentrations of blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine in the model group were significantly decreased by sodium citrate treatment. Hematoxylin-eosin and Masson staining showed that sodium citrate treatment apparently improved renal pathological changes in CRF rats. Western blot analysis showed that sodium citrate treatment decreased the protein levels of transforming growth factor-beta 1 and collagen type IV, which were increased in model rats. Moreover, immunohistochemical staining demonstrated that sodium citrate could effectively reduce the protein expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 kDa and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein in the model rats, which was consistent with western blot results. Additionally, the high dose of sodium citrate had a stronger protective effect in CRF rats than the low dose of sodium citrate. Conclusions: Sodium citrate has a protective effect on CRF through its effects on ERS.
Assessment of the Mechanistic Role of Cinnarizine in Modulating Experimentally-Induced Bronchial Asthma in Rats
Authors: Abdel-Fattah Maha M. , Messiha Basim A.S. , Salama Abeer A.A.
Published: August 2015

Background/Aims: Calcium influx, inflammatory infiltration, cytokine production, immunoglobulin E activation and oxidative stress play coordinated roles in bronchial asthma pathogenesis. We aim to assess the protective effect of cinnarizine against experimentally induced bronchial asthma. Methods: Bronchial asthma was induced by ovalbumin sensitization and challenge. Rats were allocated into a normal control, an asthma control, a dexamethasone (standard) treatment, and 2 cinnarizine treatment groups. The respiratory functions tidal volume (TV) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), the inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-5 (IL-5) in lung tissue, the allergic immunoglobulin IgE in serum, the absolute eosinophil count (AEC) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), as well as the oxidative and nitrosative markers glutathione reduced (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in lung tissue and nitric oxide end products (NOx) in BALF were assessed, followed by a histopathological study. Results: Cinnarizine administration significantly restored TV, PEFR, TNF-α, IL-5, IgE, AEC, GSH, SOD and NOx values back to normal levels, and significantly decreased perivascular and peribronchiolar inflammatory scores. Conclusion: Cinnarizine may protect against experimental bronchial asthma. Suppressant effect of cinnarizine on pro-inflammatory cytokines release, IgE antibody production, eosinophil infiltration as well as oxidative and nitrosative stress may explain its anti-asthmatic potential.