bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Context, Process, and Outcome Evaluation Model for Organisational Health Interventions
Authors: Fridrich Annemarie , Jenny Gregor J. , Bauer Georg F.
Published: October 2015

To facilitate evaluation of complex, organisational health interventions (OHIs), this paper aims at developing a context, process, and outcome (CPO) evaluation model. It builds on previous model developments in the field and advances them by clearly defining and relating generic evaluation categories for OHIs. Context is defined as the underlying frame that influences and is influenced by an OHI. It is further differentiated into the omnibus and discrete contexts. Process is differentiated into the implementation process, as the time-limited enactment of the original intervention plan, and the change process of individual and collective dynamics triggered by the implementation process. These processes lead to proximate, intermediate, and distal outcomes, as all results of the change process that are meaningful for various stakeholders. Research questions that might guide the evaluation of an OHI according to the CPO categories and a list of concrete themes/indicators and methods/sources applied within the evaluation of an OHI project at a hospital in Switzerland illustrate the model’s applicability in structuring evaluations of complex OHIs. In conclusion, the model supplies a common language and a shared mental model for improving communication between researchers and company members and will improve the comparability and aggregation of evaluation study results.
Evaluation of the Effect of Hypercapnia on Vascular Function in Normal Tension Glaucoma
Authors: Quill B. , Henry E. , Simon E. , O’Brien C. J.
Published: October 2015

Introduction. Altered ocular perfusion and vascular dysregulation have been reported in glaucoma. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the vascular response to a hypercapnic stimulus.Methods. Twenty normal tension glaucoma (NTG) patients and eighteen age- and gender-matched controls had pulsatile ocular blood flow (POBF) measurements, systemic cardiovascular assessment, and laser Doppler digital blood flow (DBF) assessed. Measurements were taken at baseline, after 10-minutes rest, in the stable sitting and supine positions and following induction and stabilization of hypercapnia, which induced a 15% increase in end-tidalpCO2. The POBF response to hypercapnia was divided into high (>20%) and low responders (<20%).Results. 65% of NTG patients had a greater than 41% increase in POBF followingCO2rebreathing (high responders). These high responders had a lower baseline POBF, lower baseline DBF, and a greater DBF response to thermal stimulus.Conclusion. NTG patients that have a greater than 20% increase in POBF after a hypercapnic stimulus have lower baseline POBF and DBF values. This suggests that there is impaired regulation of blood flow in a significant subgroup of NTG patients. This observation may reflect a generalised dysfunction of the vascular endothelium.
The Role of Systemic Arterial Stiffness in Open-Angle Glaucoma with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Shim Seong Hee , Kim Chan Yun , Kim Joon Mo , Kim Da Yeong , Kim Yang Jae , Bae Jeong Hun , Sung Ki Chul
Published: October 2015

Purpose.To investigate the role of systemic arterial stiffness in glaucoma patients with diabetes mellitus (DM).Design.Retrospective, cross-sectional study.Participants.DM subjects who underwent brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) were recruited.Methods.Glaucoma patients (n=75) and age-matched control subjects (n=92) were enrolled. Systemic examination including BaPWV and detailed eye examination were performed. The glaucoma group was divided into subgroups of normal tension glaucoma (NTG,n=55) and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) based on an IOP of 21 mmHg. BaPWV was used to stratify the population into 4 groups based on the rate. Stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis by baPWV quartiles was used to compare the glaucoma group with the control group.Main Outcome Measures.BaPWV in glaucoma with DM patients.Results.Faster baPWV was positively associated with glaucoma (odds ratio: 3.74; 95% CI: 1.03–13.56, stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis) in patients with DM. Increasing baPWV was also positively associated with glaucoma (pfor trend = 0.036). The NTG subgroup showed similar results to those of the glaucoma group.Conclusions.In this study, increased arterial stiffness was shown to be associated with glaucoma and may contribute to the pathogenesis of glaucoma in DM patients.
Capacity of Magnetic-Induction MIMO Communication for Wireless Underground Sensor Networks
Authors: Li Song , Sun Yanjing , Shi Wenjuan
Published: October 2015

In underground sensor networks, electronic magnetic waves undergo severe fading due to the challenging environment. Magnetic-induction (MI) communication is a promising alternative physical layer technique for underground sensor networks. In this paper, we solve the intercoil crosstalk in magnetic-induction multiple-input multiple-output (MI MIMO) communication and investigate the channel capacity for underground MI MIMO wireless communication. Firstly, considering mutual induction between each two coils, we analyze the capacity of magnetic-induction channel. Secondly, the channel model of magnetic-induction multiple-input single-output (MISO) is introduced and a novel coil deployment method is proposed to reduce the crosstalk in MI MISO communication. Finally, the capacity of MI MISO communication and MI MIMO communication is deduced by the proposed coil deployment method. Simulation shows that the channel capacity would increase significantly in high SNR regime for underground MI MIMO communication.
The Renal Protective Effect of Jiangya Tongluo Formula, through Regulation of Adrenomedullin and Angiotensin II, in Rats with Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis
Authors: Han Lin , Ma Yan , Qin Jian-guo , Li Li-na , Gao Yu-shan , Zhang Xiao-yu , Guo Yi , Song Lin-mei , Luo Yan-ni , Chi Xiao-yi
Published: October 2015

We investigated the effect of Jiangya Tongluo (JYTL) formula on renal function in rats with hypertensive nephrosclerosis. A total of 21 spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) were randomized into 3 groups: valsartan (10 mg/kg/d valsartan), JYTL (14.2 g/kg/d JYTL), and a model group (5 mL/kg/d distilled water); Wistar Kyoto rats comprised the control group (n= 7, 5 mL/kg/d distilled water). Treatments were administered by gavage every day for 8 weeks. Blood pressure, 24-h urine protein, pathological changes in the kidney, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were estimated. The contents of adrenomedullin (ADM) and angiotensin II (Ang II) in both the kidney and plasma were evaluated. JYTL lowered BP, 24-h urine protein, serum creatinine, and BUN. ADM content in kidneys increased and negatively correlated with BP, while Ang II decreased and negatively correlated with ADM, but there was no statistically significant difference of plasma ADM between the model and the treatment groups. Possibly, activated intrarenal renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays an important role in hypertensive nephrosclerosis and the protective function of ADM via local paracrine. JYTL may upregulate endogenous ADM level in the kidneys and antagonize Ang II during vascular injury by dilating renal blood vessels.
Comparison of Ocular Pulse Amplitude Lowering Effects of Preservative-Free Tafluprost and Preservative-Free Dorzolamide-Timolol Fixed Combination Eyedrops
Authors: Seo Du Ri , Ha Seung Joo
Published: October 2015

Purpose. To compare the ocular pulse amplitude (OPA) lowering effects of preservative-free tafluprost and dorzolamide-timolol fixed combination (DTFC) using dynamic contour tonometry.Methods. In total, 66 eyes of 66 patients with normal tension glaucoma (NTG) (n=34) or primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) (n=32) were included. Patients were divided into two groups: the preservative-free tafluprost-treated group (n=33) and the preservative-free DTFC-treated group (n=33). Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured using Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT). OPA was measured using dynamic contour tonometry; corrected OPA (cOPA) was calculated at baseline and at 1 week and 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment.Results. After 6 months of treatment, tafluprost significantly reduced IOP (P<0.001). The OPA lowering effects differed significantly between the two treatment groups (P=0.003). The cOPA-lowering effect of tafluprost (1.09 mmHg) was significantly greater than that of DTFC (0.36 mmHg) after 6 months of treatment (P=0.01).Conclusions. Tafluprost and DTFC glaucoma treatments provided marked OPA and IOP lowering effects. Tafluprost had a greater effect than DTFC; thus, this drug is recommended for patients at risk of glaucoma progression, due to the high OPA caused by large fluctuations in IOP.
Chemical Hypoxia Brings to Light Altered Autocrine Sphingosine‐1‐Phosphate Signalling in Rheumatoid Arthritis Synovial Fibroblasts
Authors: Zhao Chenqi , Moreno-Nieves Uriel , Di Battista John A. , Fernandes Maria J. , Touaibia Mohamed , Bourgoin Sylvain G.
Published: October 2015

Emerging evidence suggests a role for sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) in various aspects of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pathogenesis. In this study we compared the effect of chemical hypoxia induced by cobalt chloride (CoCl2) on the expression of S1P metabolic enzymes and cytokine/chemokine secretion in normal fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS) and RAFLS. RAFLS incubated with CoCl2, but not S1P, produced less IL‐8 and MCP‐1 than normal FLS. Furthermore, incubation with the S1P2 and S1P3 receptor antagonists, JTE‐013 and CAY10444, reduced CoCl2‐mediated chemokine production in normal FLS but not in RAFLS. RAFLS showed lower levels of intracellular S1P and enhanced mRNA expression of S1P phosphatase 1 (SGPP1) and S1P lyase (SPL), the enzymes that are involved in intracellular S1P degradation, when compared to normal FLS. Incubation with CoCl2 decreased SGPP1 mRNA and protein and SPL mRNA as well. Inhibition of SPL enhanced CoCl2‐mediated cytokine/chemokine release and restored autocrine activation of S1P2 and S1P3 receptors in RAFLS. The results suggest that the sphingolipid pathway regulating the intracellular levels of S1P is dysregulated in RAFLS and has a significant impact on cell autocrine activation by S1P. Altered sphingolipid metabolism in FLS from patients with advanced RA raises the issue of synovial cell burnout due to chronic inflammation.
Efficacy and Safety of Ropivacaine Addition to Intrathecal Morphine for Pain Management in Intractable Cancer
Authors: Huang Ying , Li Xihan , Zhu Tong , Lin Jian , Tao Gaojian
Published: October 2015

Objective. Although intrathecal drug infusion has been commonly adopted for terminal cancer pain relief, its adverse effects have made many clinicians reluctant to employ it for intractable cancer pain. The objective of this study is to compare the efficacy and security of an intrathecal continuous infusion of morphine and ropivacaine versus intrathecal morphine alone for cancer pain. Methods. Thirty‐six cancer patients received either a continuous morphine (n = 19) or morphine and ropivacaine (n = 17) infusion using an intrathecal catheter through a subcutaneous port. Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) scores and the Barthel Index were analyzed. Adverse effects and complications on postoperative days 1, 3, 7, and 15 were also analyzed. Results. All patients experienced pain relief. Compared to those who received morphine alone, patients receiving morphine and ropivacaine had significantly lower postoperative morphine requirements and higher Barthel Index scores on the 15th postsurgical day (P < 0.05). Patients receiving morphine and ropivacaine had lower NRS scores than patients receiving morphine alone on postoperative days 1, 3, 7, and 15 (P < 0.05). Negative postsurgical effects were similar in both groups. Conclusions. Morphine and ropivacaine administration through intrathecal access ports is efficacious and safe and significantly improves quality of life.
Analysis of Hereditary Elliptocytosis with Decreased Binding of Eosin-5-maleimide to Red Blood Cells
Authors: Suemori Shin-ichiro , Wada Hideho , Nakanishi Hidekazu , Tsujioka Takayuki , Sugihara Takashi , Tohyama Kaoru
Published: October 2015

Flow cytometric test for analyzing the eosin-5-maleimide (EMA) binding to red blood cells has been believed to be a specific method for diagnosing hereditary spherocytosis (HS). However, it has been reported that diseases other than HS, such as hereditary pyropoikilocytosis (HPP) and Southeast Asian ovalocytosis (SAO), which are forms in the category of hereditary elliptocytosis (HE), show decreased EMA binding to red blood cells. We analyzed EMA binding to red blood cells in 101 healthy control subjects and 42 HS patients and obtained a mean channel fluorescence (MCF) cut-off value of 36.4 (sensitivity 0.97, specificity 0.95). Using this method, we also analyzed 12 HE patients. Among them, four HE patients showed the MCF at or below the cut-off value. It indicates that some HE patients have decreased EMA binding to red blood cells. Two of these four HE patients were classified as common HE, and two were spherocytic HE with reduced spectrin. This study demonstrates that, in addition to patients with HPP or SAO, some HE patients have decreased EMA binding to red blood cells.
Esthetic Rehabilitation of the Smile with No-Prep Porcelain Laminates and Partial Veneers
Authors: Farias-Neto Arcelino , Gomes Edna Maria da Cunha Ferreira , Sánchez-Ayala Alfonso , Sánchez-Ayala Alejandro , Vilanova Larissa Soares Reis
Published: October 2015

Rehabilitation of patients with anterior conoid teeth may present a challenge for the clinician, especially when trying to mimic the nature with composite resins. This clinical report exemplifies how a patient with conoid upper lateral incisors was rehabilitated with minimally invasive adhesive restorations. Following diagnostic wax-up and cosmetic mock-up, no-prep veneers and ceramic fragments (partial veneers) were constructed with feldspathic porcelain. This restorative material presents excellent reproduction of the optical properties of the dental structure, especially at minimal thicknesses. In this paper, the details about the treatment are described. A very pleasing outcome was achieved, confirming that minimally invasive adhesive restorations are an excellent option for situations in which the dental elements are healthy, and can be modified exclusively by adding material and the patient does not want to suffer any wear on the teeth.
Consensus of Noisy Multiagent Systems with Markovian Switching Topologies and Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Shang Yilun
Published: October 2015

Stochastic multiagent systems have attracted much attention during the past few decades. This paper concerns the continuous-time consensus of a network of agents under directed switching communication topologies governed by a time-homogeneous Markovian process. The agent dynamics are described by linear time-invariant systems, with random noises as well as time-varying delays. Two types of network-induced delays are considered, namely, delays affecting only the output of the agents’ neighbors and delays affecting both the agents’ own output and the output of their neighbors. We present necessary and sufficient consensus conditions for these two classes of multiagent systems, respectively. The design method of consensus gains allows for decoupling the design problem from the graph properties. Numerical simulations are implemented to test the effectiveness of our obtained results as well as the tightness of necessary/sufficient conditions.
Comparison of Nonlinear Filtering Methods for Estimating the State of Charge of Li4Ti5O12Lithium-Ion Battery
Authors: Gao Jianping , He Hongwen
Published: October 2015

Accurate state of charge (SoC) estimation is of great significance for the lithium-ion battery to ensure its safety operation and to prevent it from overcharging or overdischarging. To achieve reliable SoC estimation for Li4Ti5O12lithium-ion battery cell, three filtering methods have been compared and evaluated. A main contribution of this study is that a general three-step model-based battery SoC estimation scheme has been proposed. It includes the processes of battery data measurement, parametric modeling, and model-based SoC estimation. With the proposed general scheme, multiple types of model-based SoC estimators have been developed and evaluated for battery management system application. The detailed comparisons on three advanced adaptive filter techniques, which include extend Kalman filter, unscented Kalman filter, and adaptive extend Kalman filter (AEKF), have been implemented with a Li4Ti5O12lithium-ion battery. The experimental results indicate that the proposed model-based SoC estimation approach with AEKF algorithm, which uses the covariance matching technique, performs well with good accuracy and robustness; the mean absolute error of the SoC estimation is within 1% especially with big SoC initial error.
Ocular Manifestations of Ebola Virus Disease: An Ophthalmologist’s Guide to Prevent Infection and Panic
Authors: Vingolo Enzo Maria , Messano Giuseppe Alessio , Fragiotta Serena , Spadea Leopoldo , Petti Stefano
Published: October 2015

Ebola virus disease (EVD—formerly known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever) is a severe hemorrhagic fever caused by lipid-enveloped, nonsegmented, negative-stranded RNA viruses belonging to the genusEbolavirus. Case fatality rates may reach up to 76% of infected individuals, making this infection a deadly health problem in the sub-Saharan population. At the moment, there are still no indications on ophthalmological clinical signs and security suggestions for healthcare professionals (doctors and nurses or cooperative persons). This paper provides a short but complete guide to reduce infection risks.
HTLV-1 ORF-I Encoded Proteins and the Regulation of Host Immune Response: Viral Induced Dysregulation of Intracellular Signaling
Authors: Rosadas Carolina , Puccioni-Sohler Marzia
Published: October 2015

The human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is a retrovirus associated with both proliferative and inflammatory disorders. This virus causes a persistent infection, mainly in CD4+ T lymphocyte. The ability to persist in the host is associated with the virus capacity to evade the immune response and to induce infected T-cell proliferation, once the HTLV-1 maintains the infection mainly by clonal expansion of infected cells. There are several evidences that ORF-I encoded proteins, such as p12 and p8, play an important role in this context. The present study will review the molecular mechanisms that HTLV-1 ORF-I encoded proteins have to induce dysregulation of intracellular signaling, in order to escape from immune response and to increase the infected T-cell proliferation rate. The work will also address the impact of ORF-I mutations on the human host and perspectives in this study field.
Mycobacterium sherrisiiLung Infection in a Brazilian Patient with Silicosis and a History of Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: de Oliveira Abrão Carolina , de Araújo Filho João Alves
Published: October 2015

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) diseases became relevant with the emergence and spread of HIV and are also related to lung infection in non-HIV individuals with structural lung diseases.Mycobacterium sherrisiiis a NTM first characterized in 2004. Only a few cases have been reported. The aim of this case report is to describe the first detailed case of infection withM. sherrisiiin a patient with silicosis and history of pulmonary tuberculosis. A 50-year-old HIV-negative white male, previous smoker, with silicosis and a history of treated pulmonary tuberculosis developed a worsening of cough and expectoration pattern, and two sputum samples were positive for acid-fast bacilli. Presumptive treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis was initiated with rifampin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, but, at month 5 of treatment, despite correct medication intake and slight improvement of symptoms, sputum bacilloscopy remained positive. Sputum cultures were positiveMycobacterium sherrisii. Treatment regimen was altered to streptomycin (for 2 months), ethambutol, clarithromycin, rifabutin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.M. sherrisiishould be considered a possible etiological agent of lung infections in patients with pneumoconiosis and history of tuberculosis.
Rice Husk Filled Polymer Composites
Authors: Arjmandi Reza , Hassan Azman , Majeed Khaliq , Zakaria Zainoha
Published: October 2015

Natural fibers from agricultural wastes are finding their importance in the polymer industry due to the many advantages such as their light weight, low cost and being environmentally friendly. Rice husk (RH) is a natural sheath that forms around rice grains during their growth. As a type of natural fiber obtained from agroindustrial waste, RH can be used as filler in composites materials in various polymer matrices. This review paper is aimed at highlighting previous works of RH filled polymer composites to provide information for applications and further research in this area. Based on the information gathered, application of RH filled composites as alternative materials in building and construction is highly plausible with both light weight and low cost being their main driving forces. However, further investigations on physical and chemical treatment to further improve the interfacial adhesion with polymeric matrix are needed as fiber-polymer interaction is crucial in determining the final composite properties. Better understanding on how the used polymer blends as the matrix and secondary fillers may affect the properties would provide interesting areas to be explored.
HPTLC Analysis of Bioactivity Guided Anticancer Enriched Fraction of Hydroalcoholic Extract ofPicrorhiza kurroa
Authors: Mallick Md. Nasar , Singh Mhaveer , Parveen Rabea , Khan Washim , Ahmad Sayeed , Zeeshan Najm Mohammad , Husain Syed Akhtar
Published: October 2015

Objective. Hydroalcoholic extract ofPicrorhiza kurroaand its fractions were subjected toin vitroscreening for cytotoxicity; further best active fraction (BAF) obtained was tested against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) model in Balb/c mice after its quality control analysis.Methods. Cytotoxicities of all the fractions and mother extract ofP. kurroawere determined, using MTT assay on breast cancer (MCF-7, MDA-MB 231) and cervical cancer (HeLa, SiHa) cell lines. Metabolic fingerprinting was developed using HPTLC with quantification of biomarkers (cucurbitacins B and E; betulinic acid; picrosides 1 and 2; and apocynin) in BAF. The EAC tumor-bearing mice were used forin vivoanticancer activity after oral administration (50 mg Kg−1) for 10 days.Results. Cytotoxicity assay of mother extract and its fractions over breast cancer and cervix cancer cell lines showed that dichloromethane (DCM) fraction was most cytotoxic (IC5036.0–51.0 µg mL−1at 72 h). Oral administration of DCM fraction showed significant reduction in tumor regression parameters, viable tumor cell count and restoration of hematological parameters may be due to presence of cucurbitacins B and E; betulinic acid; picrosides 1 and 2; and apocynin, as compared to the untreated mice of the control group.Conclusion. The DCM fraction ofP. kurroadisplayed potent anticancer activity and can be further explored for the development of a potential candidate for cancer therapy.
Antiosteoporotic Effects of Huangqi Sanxian Decoction in Cultured Rat Osteoblasts by Proteomic Characterization of the Target and Mechanism
Authors: Guo Chong-Chong , Zheng Li-Hua , Fu Jian-Ying , Zhu Jian-Hong , Zhou Yan-Xing , Zeng Tao , Zhou Zhi-Kun
Published: October 2015

Huangqi Sanxian decoction (HQSXD) is routinely used for the treatment of osteoporosis in the Chinese traditional healthcare system. However, the targets and mechanism underlying the effect of HQSXD on osteoporosis have not been documented. In the present study, seropharmacology and proteomic approaches (two-dimensional gel electrophoresis combined with mass spectrometry) were used to investigate the effects and possible target proteins of HQSXD on osteoblast. We found that HQSXD-treated rat serum significantly enhanced osteoblast proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization. In HQSXD-S-treated osteoblasts, there were increases in the expression of N-formyl peptide receptor 2 and heparan sulfate (glucosamine) 3-O-sulfotransferase 3A1 and reduction in the expression of alpha-spectrin, prohibitin, and transcription elongation factor B (SIII), polypeptide 1. The identified proteins are associated with cell proliferation, differentiation, signal transcription, and cell growth. These findings might provide valuable insights into the mechanism of antiosteoporotic effect affected by HQSXD treatment in osteoblasts.
Inducible Lentivirus‐Mediated siRNA against TLR4 Reduces Nociception in a Rat Model of Bone Cancer Pain
Authors: Pan Ruirui , Di Huiting , Zhang Jinming , Huang Zhangxiang , Sun Yuming , Yu Weifeng , Wu Feixiang
Published: October 2015

Although bone cancer pain is still not fully understood by scientists and clinicians alike, studies suggest that toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays an important role in the initiation and/or maintenance of pathological pain state in bone cancer pain. A promising treatment for bone cancer pain is the downregulation of TLR4 by RNA interference; however, naked siRNA (small interference RNA) is not effective in long‐term treatments. In order to concoct a viable prolonged treatment for bone cancer pain, an inducible lentivirus LvOn‐siTLR4 (tetracycline inducible lentivirus carrying siRNA targeting TLR4) was prepared and the antinociception effects were observed in bone cancer pain rats induced by Walker 256 cells injection in left leg. Results showed that LvOn‐siTLR4 intrathecal injection with doxycycline (Dox) oral administration effectively reduced the nociception induced by Walker 256 cells while inhibiting the mRNA and protein expression of TLR4. Proinflammatory cytokines as TNF‐α and IL‐1β in spinal cord were also decreased. These findings suggest that TLR4 could be a target for bone cancer pain treatment and tetracycline inducible lentivirus LvOn‐siTLR4 represents a new potential option for long‐term treatment of bone cancer pain.
Colorimetric Detection System for Salmonella typhimurium Based on Peroxidase‐Like Activity of Magnetic Nanoparticles with DNA Aptamers
Authors: Park Ji Young , Jeong Ha Young , Kim Moon Il , Park Tae Jung
Published: October 2015

Recently, much attention has been devoted to food‐related health issues. In particular, food‐poisoning bacteria are becoming a serious threat to human health. So far, techniques used to detect these bacteria are time‐consuming and laborious. To overcome these challenges, a biosensor with a simple platform was developed to detect Salmonella typhimurium. The colorimetric strategy is attractive because it enables simple and rapid sensing with the naked eyes. We used magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), specific aptamers, and a colorimetric substrate, 3,3′,5,5′‐tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) in the presence of H2O2. Because MNPs display enzyme‐like activities, they can undergo color changes with the help of a colorimetric substrate. In this system, MNPs were first incubated with aptamers that specifically interact with the Salmonella species, reducing the peroxidase activity of the MNPs via DNA‐mediated shielding of catalytic activity. After the addition of Salmonella cells to the solution, specific aptamers on the MNPs interact with the Salmonella, consequently enhancing the peroxidase activity of the MNPs. Considering their low cost, easy separation, and stable activity, MNPs could be applied to various detection systems.
Application of Herbal Medicines with Bitter Flavor and Cold Property on Treating Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Chen Hongdong , Guo Jing , Pang Bing , Zhao Linhua , Tong Xiaolin
Published: October 2015

Diabetes mellitus has been a global pandemic. Traditional Chinese Medicine has been used on diabetes mellitus for thousands of years and the modern Chinese medicine studies have found a curative effect of herbal medicine with bitter flavor and cold property on diabetes. This review will introduce the theory summary of flavor and property in TCM, argument basis, the evidences from clinical trails and animal experiments, the possible antidiabetic mechanisms, and advantages on lowering glucose of herbal medicines with bitter flavor and cold property and take rhizome, Chinese rhubarb, andMomordica charantia, the three herbal medicines with bitter flavor and cold property, as examples to illustrate the exact antidiabetic effect. It is hoped that this review can provide some ideas and inspiration for the treatment of diabetes with herbal medicine.
Vital Life-Threatening Hematoma after Implant Insertion in the Anterior Mandible: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Schiegnitz Eik , Moergel Maximilian , Wagner Wilfried
Published: October 2015

Dental implant insertion is considered a safe and reliable surgical procedure and severe complications are seldom reported. However, we present a case of a 52-year-old patient who attended our Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, with spreading hematoma in the floor of the mouth and acute airway obstruction after insertion of a dental implant in the anterior mandible. The hematoma was removed and submentally drained by a silicon drainage. However, the progressive swelling of the tongue and the floor of the mouth necessitated a temporary tracheotomy for three days. The review of the literature summarizes guidelines for prevention and management of this life-threatening complication.
Basic Competence of Intensive Care Unit Nurses: Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Authors: Lakanmaa Riitta-Liisa , Suominen Tarja , Ritmala-Castrén Marita , Vahlberg Tero , Leino-Kilpi Helena
Published: October 2015

Critical care patients benefit from the attention of nursing personnel with a high competence level. The aim of the study was to describe and evaluate the self-assessed basic competence of intensive care unit nurses and related factors. A cross-sectional survey design was used. A basic competence scale (Intensive and Critical Care Nursing Competence Scale version 1, Likert scale 1–5, 1 = poor and 5 = excellent) was employed among Finnish intensive care unit nurses (n=431). Intensive care unit nurses’ self-assessed basic competence was good (mean 4.19, SD 0.40). The attitude and value base of basic competence was excellent whereas experience base was the poorest compared to the knowledge base and skill base of intensive and critical care nursing. The strongest factor explaining nurses’ basic competence was their experience of autonomy in nursing care (Fvalue 60.85,β0.11, SE 0.01, andP≤0.0001). Clinical competence was self-rated as good. Nurses gave their highest competence self-ratings for ICU patient care according to the principles of nursing care. The ICU nurses also self-rated their professional competence as good. Collaboration was self-rated as the best competence. In basic and continuing education and professional self-development discussions it is meaningful to consider and find solutions for how to improve nurses’ experienced autonomy in nursing.
Raman Spectroscopy and Statistical Analysis of the Silicate Species and Group Connectivity in Cesium Silicate Glass Forming System
Authors: Osipov Armenak , Osipova Leyla , Zainullina Rimma
Published: October 2015

The Raman spectra of x%Cs2O-(100 − x)%SiO2 (x=17, 22, 27, 33, and 37 mol%) glasses and melts were measured in the temperature range of 293 to 1553 K. The concentrations of the Qn species were calculated as a function of the composition and temperature based on the deconvolution analysis of the spectra. It was found that a dynamic equilibrium among structural units in the melts with x>17 mol% can be described by disproportionation reaction Q3⇔Q4+Q2. The enthalpy of this reaction was found to be equal to 32 ± 6, 43 ± 8, 56 ± 10, and 52 ± 9 for x=22, 27, 33, and 37 mol%, respectively. The nonideal entropy of mixing (ΔSmix) depends on the melt temperature and increases almost linearly with increasing temperature. The Qn, Q2–Q2, and Qn,ijkl distributions with x ranging from 0 to 55 mol% were modeled using experimental data for the concentrations of the Qn units.
Are Auditory Steady-State Responses Useful to Evaluate Severe-to-Profound Hearing Loss in Children?
Authors: Grasel Signe Schuster , Almeida Edigar Rezende de , Beck Roberto Miquelino de Oliveira , Goffi-Gomez Maria Valéria Schmidt , Ramos Henrique Faria , Rossi Amanda Costa , Koji Tsuji Robinson , Bento Ricardo Ferreira , de Brito Rubens
Published: October 2015

Objective. To evaluate Auditory Steady-State Responses (ASSR) at high intensities in pediatric cochlear implant candidates and to compare the results to behavioral tests responses.Methods. This prospective study evaluated 42 children with suspected severe-to-profound hearing loss, aged from 3 to 72 months. All had absent ABR and OAE responses. ASSR were evoked using binaural single frequency stimuli at 110 dB HL with a 10 dB down-seeking procedure. ASSR and behavioral test results were compared.Results. Forty-two subjects completed both ASSR and behavioral evaluation. Eleven children (26.2%) had bilateral responses. Four (9.5%) showed unilateral responses in at least two frequencies, all confirmed by behavioral results. Overall 61 ASSR responses were obtained, most (37.7%) in 500 Hz. Mean thresholds were between 101.3 and 104.2 dB HL. Among 27 subjects with absent ASSR, fifteen had no behavioral responses. Seven subjects showed behavioral responses with absent ASSR responses. No spurious ASSR responses were observed at 100 or 110 dB HL.Conclusion. ASSR is a valuable tool to detect residual hearing. No false-positive ASSR results were observed among 42 children, but in seven cases with absent ASSR, the test underestimated residual hearing as compared to the behavioral responses.
Evaluation of Biological Toxicity of CdTe Quantum Dots with Different Coating Reagents according to Protein Expression of Engineering Escherichia coli
Authors: Xu Wei , Du Ting , Xu Chaoyong , Han Heyou , Liang Jiangong , Xiao Shaobo
Published: October 2015

The results obtained from toxicity assessment of quantum dots (QDs) can be used to establish guidelines for the application of QDs in bioimaging. This paper focused on the design of a novel method to evaluate the toxicity of CdTe QDs using engineering Escherichia coli as a model. The toxicity of mercaptoacetic acid (MPA), glutathione (GSH), and L‐cysteine (Cys) capped CdTe QDs was analyzed according to the heterologous protein expression in BL21/DE3, engineering Escherichia coli extensively used for protein expression. The results showed that the MPA‐CdTe QDs had more serious toxicity than the other two kinds of CdTe QDs. The microscopic images and SEM micrographs further proved that both the proliferation and the protein expression of engineering Escherichia coli were inhibited after treatment with MPA‐CdTe QDs. The proposed method is important to evaluate biological toxicity of both QDs and other nanoparticles.
Identification of Iron Homeostasis Genes Dysregulation Potentially Involved in Retinopathy of Prematurity Pathogenicity by Microarray Analysis
Authors: Luo Xian-qiong , Zhang Chun-yi , Zhang Jia-wen , Jiang Jing-bo , Yin Ai-hua , Guo Li , Nie Chuan , Lu Xu-zai , Deng Hua , Zhang Liang
Published: October 2015

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a serious disease of preterm neonates and there are limited systematic studies of the molecular mechanisms underlying ROP. Therefore, here we performed global gene expression profiling in human fetal retinal microvascular endothelial cells (RMECs) under hypoxic conditionsin vitro. Aborted fetuses were enrolled and primary RMECs were isolated from eyeballs. Cultivated cells were treated with CoCl2to induce hypoxia. The dual-color microarray approach was adopted to compare gene expression profiling between treated RMECs and the paired untreated control. The one-class algorithm in significance analysis of microarray (SAM) software was used to screen the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) was conducted to validate the results. Gene Ontology was employed for functional enrichment analysis. There were 326 DEGs between the hypoxia-induced group and untreated group. Of these genes, 198 were upregulated in hypoxic RMECs, while the other 128 hits were downregulated. In particular, genes in the iron ion homeostasis pathway were highly enriched under hypoxic conditions. Our study indicates that dysregulation of genes involved in iron homeostasis mediating oxidative damage may be responsible for the mechanisms underlying ROP. The “oxygen plus iron” hypothesis may improve our understanding of ROP pathogenesis.
Energy-Balanced Data Gathering and Aggregating in WSNs: A Compressed Sensing Scheme
Authors: Xing Xiaofei , Xie Dongqing , Wang Guojun
Published: October 2015

Compressed sensing (CS) is an emerging sampling technique by which the data sampling and aggregating can be done simultaneously, which can be applied to many fields, including data processing in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). In WSNs, data aggregating can reduce data transmission cost and improve energy efficiency. Existing CS-based data gathering work in WSNs utilizes the centralized method to process the data by a sink node, which causes the load imbalance and “coverage hole” problems, and so forth. In this paper, we propose an energy-balanced data gathering and aggregating (EDGA) scheme that integrates a clustering hierarchical structure with the CS to optimize and balance the amount of data transmitted. We also design a data reconstruction algorithm to perform data recovery tasks by utilizing the orthogonal matching pursuit theory, which helps to reconstruct the original data accurately and effectively at sink node. The advantages of the proposed scheme compared with other state-of-the-art related methods are measured on the metrics of data recovery ratio and energy efficiency. We implement our scheme on a simulation platform using a real dataset from Intel lab. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed data gathering and aggregating scheme guarantees accurate data reconstruction performance and obtains energy efficiency significantly compared to existing methods.
Photocatalytically Active YBa2Cu3O7−x Nanoparticles Synthesized via a Soft Chemical Route
Authors: Shen Zhenjiang , Hu Yongming , Fei Linfeng , Li Kun , Chen Wanping , Gu Haoshuang , Wang Yu
Published: October 2015

YBa2Cu3O7−x (YBCO) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized via a soft chemical approach and they were found photocatalytically active at room temperature. Using metal acetate as precursors, a well‐designed soft chemical procedure was carried out to produce YBCO NPs. The very small particle size and/or large number of defects might have led the NPs to semiconductors with vigorous photocatalytic activities. This work provides a direct and efficient route to obtain multifunction in YBCO based nanomaterials which are based on specific size and surface effects.
Nanotextured Morphology of Poly(methyl methacrylate) and Ultraviolet Curable Poly(urethane acrylate) Blends via Phase Separation
Authors: Kim Ju-Hyung , Kim Joon H. , Seo Soonmin
Published: October 2015

Domain structures of spin‐coated immiscible poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and ultraviolet (UV) curable poly(urethane acrylate) (PUA) blends were studied using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Spin casting the PMMA/PUA blends in propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate (PGMEA) was accompanied with phase separation, and PUA was subsequently cross‐linked under UV radiation. Selective dissolution of PMMA in the phase‐separated films was feasible using tetrahydrofuran (THF) solvent after the UV curing process, because the cured PUA material is highly stable against THF. Morphology of phase‐separated structure, including domain size and height, could be controlled by varying total concentration of the blended solution, and various nanoscale features such as island‐like and hole‐like structures were achieved by changing weight ratio of the two immiscible polymers.
Prognostic Factors of Returning to Work after Sick Leave due to Work-Related Common Mental Disorders: A One- and Three-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Netterstrøm Bo , Eller Nanna Hurwitz , Borritz Marianne
Published: October 2015

The aim of this paper was to assess the prognostic factors of return to work (RTW) after one and three years among people on sick leave due to occupational stress.Methods. The study population comprised 223 completers on sick leave, who participated in a stress treatment program. Self-reported psychosocial work environment, life events during the past year, severity of the condition, occupational position, employment sector, marital status, and medication were assessed at baseline. RTW was assessed with data from a national compensation database (DREAM).Results. Self-reported high demands, low decision authority, low reward, low support from leaders and colleagues, bullying, high global symptom index, length of sick leave at baseline, and stressful negative life events during the year before baseline were associated with no RTW after one year. Low work ability and full-time sick leave at inclusion were predictors after three years too. Being single was associated with no RTW after three years. The type of treatment, occupational position, gender, age, and degree of depression were not associated with RTW after one or three years.Conclusion. The impact of the psychosocial work environment as predictor for RTW disappeared over time and only the severity of the condition was a predictor for RTW in the long run.
Protective Effect of Edaravone in Primary Cerebellar Granule Neurons against Iodoacetic Acid-Induced Cell Injury
Authors: Zhou Xinhua , Zhu Longjun , Wang Liang , Guo Baojian , Zhang Gaoxiao , Sun Yewei , Zhang Zaijun , Lee Simon Ming-Yuen , Yu Pei , Wang Yuqiang
Published: October 2015

Edaravone (EDA) is clinically used for treatment of acute ischemic stroke in Japan and China due to its potent free radical-scavenging effect. However, it has yet to be determined whether EDA can attenuate iodoacetic acid- (IAA-) induced neuronal deathin vitro. In the present study, we investigated the effect of EDA on damage of IAA-induced primary cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) and its possible underlying mechanisms. We found that EDA attenuated IAA-induced cell injury in CGNs. Moreover, EDA significantly reduced intracellular reactive oxidative stress production, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and caspase 3 activity induced by IAA. Taken together, EDA protected CGNs against IAA-induced neuronal damage, which may be attributed to its antiapoptotic and antioxidative activities.
Association of Metabolic Syndrome with the Adiponectin to Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance Ratio
Authors: Ding Yu-Song , Guo Shu-Xia , Ma Ru-Lin , Li Shu-Gang , Guo Heng , Zhang Jing-Yu , Zhang Mei , Liu Jia-Ming , He Jia , Yan Yi-zhong , Zhang Wen-Jie , Liu Lie-Gang
Published: October 2015

This study aimed at determining whether the adiponectin to HOMA‐IR (A/H) ratio is associated with MetS and MetS components and comparing the diagnostic efficacy of adiponectin, HOMA‐IR, and the A/H ratio in healthy, middle‐aged participants. MetS was assessed in 1628 Kazakh participants (men, 768; women, 860). The associations between adiponectin, HOMA‐IR, and the A/H ratio with the components of MetS and MetS were examined using logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Our results show that A/H ratio may be a better diagnostic marker for MetS than either HOMA‐IR or adiponectin alone, and it may serve as an important biomarker to determine an increased risk for MetS in healthy middle‐aged population.
Canonical Quantization of the Scalar Field: The Measure Theoretic Perspective
Authors: Velhinho José
Published: October 2015

This review is devoted to measure theoretical methods in the canonical quantization of scalar field theories. We present in some detail the canonical quantization of the free scalar field. We study the measures associated with the free fields and present two characterizations of the support of these measures. The first characterization concerns local properties of the quantum fields, whereas for the second one we introduce a sequence of variables that test the field behaviour at large distances, thus allowing distinguishing between the typical quantum fields associated with different values of the mass.
Sense of Well-Being in Patients with Fibromyalgia: Aerobic Exercise Program in a Mature Forest—A Pilot Study
Authors: López-Pousa Secundino , Bassets Pagès Glòria , Monserrat-Vila Sílvia , de Gracia Blanco Manuel , Hidalgo Colomé Jaume , Garre-Olmo Josep
Published: October 2015

Background and Objective. Most patients with fibromyalgia benefit from different forms of physical exercise. Studies show that exercise can help restore the body’s neurochemical balance and that it triggers a positive emotional state. So, regular exercise can help reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. The aim of this study was to analyze the benefits of moderate aerobic exercise when walking in two types of forests, young and mature, and to assess anxiety, sleep, pain, and well-being in patients with fibromyalgia. Secondary objectives included assessing (i) whether there were differences in temperature, sound, and moisture, (ii) whether there was an improvement in emotional control, and (iii) whether there was an improvement in health (reduction in pain) and in physical and mental relaxation.Patients and Methods. A study involving walking through two types of forests (mature and young) was performed. A total of 30 patients were randomly assigned to two groups, mature and young forests. The participants were administered the following tests: theSpanish version of the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire(FIQR) at baseline and the end-point of the study, theState-Trait Anxiety Inventory(STAI) after each walk, and a series of questions regarding symptomatic evolution. Several physiological parameters were registered.Results. FIQR baseline and end-point scores indicated a significant decrease in the symptomatic subscale of the FIQ (SD = 21.7;z=-2.4;p=0.041). The within-group analysis revealed that differences were significant with respect to days of intense pain, insomnia, and days of well-being only in the group assigned to the mature forest, not in the group assigned to the young forest. No differences were found with respect to anxiety.Conclusions. Although the main aim of this research was not achieved, as the results revealed no differences between the groups in the two forest types, authors could confirm that an aerobic exercise program consisting of walking through a mature forest can provide the subjective perception of having less days of pain and insomnia and more days of wellness, in patients with fibromyalgia.
Rhabdomyolysis due to Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole Administration following a Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant
Authors: Augustyn Alexander , Lisa Alattar Mona , Naina Harris
Published: October 2015

Rhabdomyolysis, a syndrome of muscle necrosis, is a life-threatening event. Here we describe the case of a patient with chronic myeloid leukemia who underwent a haploidentical stem cell transplant and subsequently developed rhabdomyolysis after beginning trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) prophylaxis therapy. Rechallenge with TMP/SMX resulted in a repeat episode of rhabdomyolysis and confirmed the association. Withdrawal of TMP/SMX led to sustained normalization of creatine kinase levels in the patient. A high index of suspicion is necessary to identify TMP/SMX as the cause of rhabdomyolysis in immunocompromised patients.