bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategies for Dynamic Stability During Locomotion on a Slippery Surface: Effects of Prior Experience and Knowledge
Authors: Marigold Daniel S. , Patla Aftab E.
Published: July 2016

Falls due to slips are prevalent in everyday life. The purpose of this study was to determine the reactive recovery responses used to maintain dynamic stability during an unexpected slip, establish the time course of response adaptation to repeated slip perturbations, and distinguish the proactive strategies for negotiating a slippery surface. Twelve young adults participated in the study in which a slip was generated following foot contact on a set of steel free-wheeling rollers. Surface electromyographic (EMG) data were collected from rectus femoris, biceps femoris, tibialis anterior, and the medial head of gastrocnemius on the perturbed limb. Whole body kinematics were recorded using an optical imaging system: from this the center of mass, foot angle, and medial-lateral stability margins were determined. In addition, braking/loading and accelerating/unloading impulses while in contact with the rollers and the rate of loading the rollers were determined from ground reaction forces. Results demonstrate that the reactive recovery response to the first slip consisted of a rapid onset of a flexor synergy (146–199 ms), a large arm elevation strategy, and a modified swing limb trajectory. With repeated exposure to the slip perturbation, the CNS rapidly adapts within one slip trial through global changes. These changes include the attenuation of muscle response magnitude, reduced braking impulse, landing more flat-footed, and elevating the center of mass. Individuals implement a “surfing strategy” while on the rollers when knowledge of the surface condition was available before hand. Furthermore, knowledge of a slip results in a reduced braking impulse and rate of loading, a shift in medial-lateral center of mass closer to the support limb at foot contact on the rollers and a more flat foot landing. In conclusion, prior experience with the perturbations allows subsequent modification and knowledge of the surface condition results in proactive adjustments to safely traverse the slippery surface.
Subthreshold Oscillations Induced by Spinal Nerve Injury in Dissociated Muscle and Cutaneous Afferents of Mouse DRG
Authors: Liu Chang-Ning , Devor Marshall , Waxman Stephen G. , Kocsis Jeffery D.
Published: July 2016

Whole cell patch-clamp recordings were obtained from dissociated mouse lumbar dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Recordings were made from control neurons and neurons axotomized by transection of the corresponding spinal nerve 1−2 days prior to dissociation. Medium to large muscle and cutaneous afferent neurons were identified by retrograde transport of True Blue or Fluoro-Gold injected into the corresponding peripheral tissue. Action potentials were classified as non-inflected spikes (A0) and inflected spikes (Ainf). High-frequency, low-amplitude subthreshold membrane potential oscillations were observed in 8% of control A0 neurons, but their incidence increased to 31% in the nerve injury group. Fifty percent of axotomized muscle afferent A0 cells displayed oscillations, while 26% of axotomized cutaneous afferents exhibited oscillations. Lower-frequency oscillations were also observed in a small fraction (4%) of Ainf neurons on strong depolarization. Their numbers were increased after the nerve injury, but the difference was not statistically significant. The oscillations often triggered burst firing in distinct patterns of action potential activity. These results indicate that injury-induced membrane oscillations of DRG neurons, previously observed in whole DRG of rats, are present in dissociated DRG neurons of the adult mouse. Moreover, these observations indicate that both muscle and cutaneous afferents in the Aβ size range give rise to injury-induced membrane oscillations, with muscle afferents being more prone to develop oscillations.
Taste Responses of Neurons of the Hamster Solitary Nucleus Are Enhanced by Lateral Hypothalamic Stimulation
Authors: Cho Young K. , Li Cheng-Shu , Smith David V.
Published: July 2016

Gustatory responses in the brain stem are modifiable by several physiological factors, including blood insulin and glucose, intraduodenal lipids, gastric distension, and learning, although the neural substrates for these modulatory effects are not known. Stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus (LH) produces increases in food intake and alterations in taste preference behavior, whereas damage to this area has opposite effects. In the present study, we investigated the effects of LH stimulation on the neural activity of taste-responsive cells in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NST) of the hamster. Bipolar stimulating electrodes were bilaterally implanted in the LH, and the responses of 99 neurons in the NST, which were first characterized for their taste sensitivities, were tested for their response to both ipsilateral and contralateral LH stimulation. Half of the taste-responsive cells in the NST (49/99) were modulated by LH stimulation. Contralateral stimulation was more often effective (41 cells) than ipsilateral (13 cells) and always excitatory; 10 cells were excited bilaterally. Six cells were inhibited by ipsilateral stimulation. A subset of these cells ( n = 13) was examined for the effects of microinjection of dl-homocysteic acid (DLH), a glutamate receptor agonist, into the LH. The effects of electrical stimulation were completely mimicked by DLH, indicating that cell somata in and around the LH are responsible for these effects. Other cells ( n = 14) were tested for the effects of electrical stimulation of the LH on the responses to stimulation of the tongue with 0.032 M sucrose, NaCl, and quinine hydrochloride, and 0.0032 M citric acid. Responses to taste stimuli were more than doubled by the excitatory influence of the LH. These data show that the LH, in addition to its role in feeding and metabolism, exerts descending control over the processing of gustatory information through the brain stem.
Evidence of a Functionally Segregated Pathway From Dorsal Cochlear Nucleus to Inferior Colliculus
Authors: Davis Kevin A.
Published: July 2016

Type O units in the central nucleus of the inferior colliculus (ICC) of decerebrate cats are excited by best frequency (BF) tones near threshold, but are inhibited by high-level tones at all frequencies. Dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN) principal cells display similar response map features and project directly to the ICC, and are thus supposed to be the dominant source of excitatory input for type O units. To test this hypothesis, the responses of type O units were compared before and after two pharmacological manipulations. When DCN to ICC axons were blocked by pressure injections of lidocaine, most type O units (∼80%) were silenced or showed substantially reduced activity, but some units showed increased activity. All of the former units had low maximal rates to BF tones, whereas the latter units had high rates. When local circuit inhibitory mechanisms in the ICC were blocked by iontophoretic application of bicuculline or strychnine, type O unit responses also fell into two classes: low-rate units that showed increased spontaneous and driven activities and high-rate units that showed, in addition, altered response map features. Taken together, these results demonstrate that low-rate type O units are part of a functionally segregated pathway initiated by the DCN, whereas high-rate type O units are created at the level of the ICC.
Regulation of Firing Response Gain by Calcium-Dependent Mechanisms in Vestibular Nucleus Neurons
Authors: Smith Marianne R. , Nelson Alexandra B. , du Lac Sascha
Published: July 2016

Behavioral reflexes can be modified by experience via mechanisms that are largely unknown. Within the circuitry for the vestibuloocular reflex (VOR), neurons in the medial vestibular nucleus (MVN) show adaptive changes in firing rate responses that are correlated with VOR gain (the ratio of evoked eye velocity to input head velocity). Although changes in synaptic strength are typically assumed to underlie gain changes in the VOR, modulation of intrinsic ion channels that dictate firing could also play a role. Little is known, however, about how ion channel function or regulation contributes to firing responses in MVN neurons. This study examined contributions of calcium-dependent currents to firing responses in MVN neurons recorded with whole cell patch electrodes in rodent brain stem slices. Firing responses were remarkably linear over a wide range of firing rates and showed modest spike frequency adaptation. Firing response gain, the ratio of evoked firing rate to input current, was reduced by increasing extracellular calcium and increased either by lowering extracellular calcium or with antagonists to SK- and BK-type calcium-dependent potassium channels and N- and T-type calcium channels. Blockade of SK channels occluded gain increases via N-type calcium channels, while blocking BK channels occluded gain increases via presumed T-type calcium channels, indicating specific coupling of potassium channels and their calcium sources. Selective inhibition of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase II and broad-spectrum inhibition of phosphatases modulated gain via BK-dependent pathways, indicating that firing responses are tightly regulated. Modulation of firing response gain by phosphorylation provides an attractive mechanism for adaptive control of VOR gain.
The Association of Adiposity Indices and Plasma Vitamin D in Young Females in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al Asoom Lubna Ibrahim
Published: July 2016

Background. Vitamin D deficiency is a global health problem. Some evidences indicate its association with metabolic syndrome, type II diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. In the current study we aim to study the association of vitamin D level and indicators of adiposity in young Saudi females.Subjects and Methods. 87 young healthy Saudi females were recruited from University of Dammam, Dammam, Saudi Arabia. Each subject filled vitamin D questionnaire and had exercise stress test to determine VO2peak. Body weight, BMI, waist and hip circumference, and ratios were determined. Blood was analyzed for 25-OH vitamin D, glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and differential cholesterol.Results. 25-OH vitamin D/body weight was negatively associated with waist circumference and waist/stature ratio. No significant difference was found between the groups of BMI with regard to the data of questionnaire or 25-OH vitamin D/body weight. Obese and overweight subjects had lower VO2peak.Conclusion. In young Saudi females we found that the relative value of vitamin D to body weight is a better indicator of vitamin D status particularly in obese subjects and it is negatively associated with adiposity measures of waist circumference and waist/stature ratio.
Study on Compressive Strength of Quarry Dust as Fine Aggregate in Concrete
Authors: Shyam Prakash K. , Rao Ch. Hanumantha
Published: July 2016

The concept of replacement of natural fine aggregate by quarry dust which is highlighted in the study could boost the consumption of quarry dust generated from quarries. By replacement of quarry dust, the requirement of land fill area can be reduced and can also solve the problem of natural sand scarcity. The availability of sand at low cost as a fine aggregate in concrete is not suitable and that is the reason to search for an alternative material. Quarry dust satisfies the reason behind the alternative material as a substitute for sand at very low cost. It even causes burden to dump the crusher dust at one place which causes environmental pollution. From the results of experimental investigations conducted, it is concluded that the quarry dust can be used as a replacement for fine aggregate. It is found that 40% replacement of fine aggregate by quarry dust gives maximum result in strength than normal concrete and then decreases from 50%. The compressive strength is quantified for varying percentage and grades of concrete by replacement of sand with quarry dust.
Enhanced Osteogenic and Vasculogenic Differentiation Potential of Human Adipose Stem Cells on Biphasic Calcium Phosphate Scaffolds in Fibrin Gels
Authors: van Esterik Fransisca A. S. , Zandieh-Doulabi Behrouz , Kleverlaan Cornelis J. , Klein-Nulend Jenneke
Published: July 2016

For bone tissue engineering synthetic biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) with a hydroxyapatite/β‐tricalcium phosphate (HA/β‐TCP) ratio of 60/40 (BCP60/40) is successfully clinically applied, but the high percentage of HA may hamper efficient scaffold remodelling. Whether BCP with a lower HA/β‐TCP ratio (BCP20/80) is more desirable is still unclear. Vascular development is needed before osteogenesis can occur. We aimed to test the osteogenic and/or vasculogenic differentiation potential as well as degradation of composites consisting of human adipose stem cells (ASCs) seeded on BCP60/40 or BCP20/80 incorporated in fibrin gels that trigger neovascularization for bone regeneration. ASC attachment to BCP60/40 and BCP20/80 within 30 min was similar (>93%). After 11 days of culture BCP20/80‐based composites showed increased alkaline phosphatase activity and DMP1 gene expression, but not RUNX2 and osteonectin expression, compared to BCP60/40‐based composites. BCP20/80‐based composites also showed enhanced expression of the vasculogenic markers CD31 and VEGF189, but not VEGF165 and endothelin‐1. Collagen‐1 and collagen‐3 expression was similar in both composites. Fibrin degradation was increased in BCP20/80‐based composites at day 7. In conclusion, BCP20/80‐based composites showed enhanced osteogenic and vasculogenic differentiation potential compared to BCP60/40‐based composites in vitro, suggesting that BCP20/80‐based composites might be more promising for in vivo bone augmentation than BCP60/40‐based composites.
FusariumAntifungal Activities of Copper Nanoparticles Synthesized by a Chemical Reduction Method
Authors: Viet Pham Van , Nguyen Hai Thi , Cao Thi Minh , Hieu Le Van
Published: July 2016

We report on the process of synthesizing copper nanoparticles (Cu Nps) for a short reactive time by chemical reduction method with a support of CTAB reductive agent. Their properties were determined by ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) absorption spectrum, the X-ray (XRD) analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) images. The antifungal activity of Cu Nps was evaluated by testing againstFusariumsp. The Cu Nps were obtained with the average size in the range of 20–50 nm having spherical shape. The survey shows that when Cu Nps were used at 450 ppm concentration in 9-day incubation, 93.98% of fungal growth was inhibited.
Damage Degree Evaluation of Earthquake Area Using UAV Aerial Image
Authors: Chen Jinhong , Liu Haoting , Zheng Jingchen , Lv Ming , Yan Beibei , Hu Xin , Gao Yun
Published: July 2016

An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) system and its aerial image analysis method are developed to evaluate the damage degree of earthquake area. Both the single-rotor and the six-rotor UAVs are used to capture the visible light image of ground targets. Five types of typical ground targets are considered for the damage degree evaluation: the building, the road, the mountain, the riverway, and the vegetation. When implementing the image analysis, first the Image Quality Evaluation Metrics (IQEMs), that is, the image contrast, the image blur, and the image noise, are used to assess the imaging definition. Second, once the image quality is qualified, the Gray Level Cooccurrence Matrix (GLCM) texture feature, the Tamura texture feature, and the Gabor wavelet texture feature are computed. Third, the Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier is employed to evaluate the damage degree. Finally, a new damage degree evaluation (DDE) index is defined to assess the damage intensity of earthquake. Many experiment results have verified the correctness of proposed system and method.
Simulating the Effects of Noncrossing Block Sections Setting Rules on Capacity Loss of Double-Track Railway Line due to the Operation of out-of-Gauge Trains
Authors: Zhang Yinggui , Zeng Qiong-fang , Lei Dingyou , Wang Xinyu
Published: July 2016

Dispatchers often set noncrossing block sections (NCBSs) for railway out-of-gauge train (OGT) running on double-track railway line for safety reasons. In this paper, we will investigate the best location, length, and number of noncrossing block sections to reduce railway capacity loss due to the operation of OGTs. Firstly, yielding, overtaking, stopping, starting, and other operation rules for OGTs running on double-track railway line were designed, and a simulation model based on cellular automata was further put forward. Then, an assessment model for double-track railway line capacity loss due to the operation of OGTs was set up. Some simulation experiments and the comparisons of these results were further given to achieve the optimal setting of NCBS for OGTs running on double-track railway line. In the case of NCBSs number minus one, capacity loss caused by the operation of OGTs can be reduced up to 15.2% in the upstream direction and 6.3% in the downstream direction. Also, the NCBSs should lie at the nearest block sections (BSs) to depot stations and the NCBSs lengths should be as less as possible.
Hypothalamic AMPK as a Regulator of Energy Homeostasis
Authors: Huynh My Khanh Q. , Kinyua Ann W. , Yang Dong Joo , Kim Ki Woo
Published: July 2016

Activated in energy depletion conditions, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) acts as a cellular energy sensor and regulator in both central nervous system and peripheral organs. Hypothalamic AMPK restores energy balance by promoting feeding behavior to increase energy intake, increasing glucose production, and reducing thermogenesis to decrease energy output. Besides energy state, many hormones have been shown to act in concert with AMPK to mediate their anorexigenic and orexigenic central effects as well as thermogenic influences. Here we explore the factors that affect hypothalamic AMPK activity and give the underlying mechanisms for the role of central AMPK in energy homeostasis together with the physiological effects of hypothalamic AMPK on energy balance restoration.
A New Appliance for Improving the Miniscrew Stability
Authors: Ozkalayci Nurhat , Yetmez Mehmet
Published: July 2016

The aim of this study is to present a new appliance called stability leg designed as an additional anchorage providing device for increasing primary stability of orthodontic miniscrew. For this purpose, two finite element models (FEMs) with two different cortical layer thicknesses of 1 mm and 2 mm are considered. In order to achieve the stability analysis, these two main models, namely, Model I and Model II, are divided into subgroups according to stability leg lengths. Two types of forces are considered. (1) First force is a constant force of 1 N which is applied to all two models. (2) Second force is defined in the range of 1–4 N. Each of 1, 2.5, and 4 N of the second force is applied with a position angle ranging from 34° to 44°. Results show that stability of a miniscrew with 5 mm leg increases primary stability of the miniscrew.
Heuristic Storage System Sizing for Optimal Operation of Electric Vehicles Powered by Photovoltaic Charging Station
Authors: Blasius Erik , Federau Erik , Janik Przemyslaw , Leonowicz Zbigniew
Published: July 2016

This paper discusses the utilisation of PV systems for electric vehicles charging for transportation requirements of smart cities. The gap between PV power output and vehicles charging demand is highly variable. Therefore, there is a need for additional support from a public distribution grid or a storage device in order to handle the residual power. Long term measurement data retrieved from a charging station for 15 vehicles equipped with a PV system were used in the research. Low and high irradiation seasons influenced the PV output. The charging demand of electric vehicles varied over the course of a year and was correlated to weather conditions. Therefore, the sizing and performance of a supportive storage device should be evaluated in a statistical manner using long period observations.
The Application of a Contact Lens Sensor in Detecting 24-Hour Intraocular Pressure-Related Patterns
Authors: Xu Sarah C. , Gauthier Angela C. , Liu Ji
Published: July 2016

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Recent studies suggest that intraocular pressure (IOP) fluctuations, peaks, and rhythm are important factors in disease advancement. Yet, current glaucoma management remains hinged on single IOP measurements during clinic hours. To overcome this limitation, 24-hour IOP monitoring devices have been employed and include self-tonometry, permanent IOP, and temporary IOP monitoring. This review discusses each IOP measuring strategy and focuses on the recently FDA-approved contact lens sensor (CLS). The CLS records IOP-related ocular patterns for 24 hours continuously. Using the CLS, IOP-related parameters have been found to be associated with the rate of visual field progression in primary open-angle glaucoma, disease progression in primary angle-closure glaucoma, and various clinical variables in ocular hypertension. The CLS has been used to quantify blink rate and limbal strain and measure the circadian rhythm in a variety of disease states including normal-tension glaucoma and thyroid eye disease. The effects of various IOP-lowering interventions were also characterized using the CLS. CLS provides a unique, safe, and well-tolerated way to study IOP-related patterns in a wide range of disease states. IOP-related patterns may help identify patients most at risk for disease progression and assist with the development of tailored treatments.
Loperamide Induced Life Threatening Ventricular Arrhythmia
Authors: Upadhyay Ankit , Bodar Vijaykumar , Malekzadegan Mohammad , Singh Sharanjit , Frumkin William , Mangla Aditya , Doshi Kaushik
Published: July 2016

Loperamide is over-the-counter antidiarrheal agent acting on peripherally locatedμopioid receptors. It is gaining popularity among drug abusers as opioid substitute. We report a case of a 46-year-old male that was presented after cardiac arrest. After ruling out ischemia, cardiomyopathy, pulmonary embolism, central nervous system pathology, sepsis, and other drug toxicity, we found out that patient was using around 100 mg of Loperamide to control his chronic diarrhea presumably because of irritable bowel syndrome for last five years and consumed up to 200 mg of Loperamide daily for last two days before the cardiac arrest. We hypothesize that the patient’s QTc prolongation and subsequent cardiac arrest are due to Loperamide toxicity. Patient experienced gradual resolution of tachyarrhythmia and gradual decrease in QTc interval during hospitalization which supports the evidence of causal relationship between Loperamide overdose and potentially fatal arrhythmias. It also provided the clue that patient may have congenital long QT syndrome which was unmasked by Loperamide causing ventricular arrhythmias. This case adds one more pearl in the literature to support that Loperamide overdose related cardiac toxicity does exist and it raises concerns over Loperamide abuse in the community.
Ingestive Behavior of Ovine Fed with Marandu Grass Silage Added with Naturally Dehydrated Brewery Residue
Authors: de Jesus Ferreira Daniele , de Moura Zanine Anderson , de Paula Lana Rogério , Lima de Souza Alexandre , Divino Ribeiro Marinaldo , Mattos Negrão Fagton , Castro Wanderson José Rodrigues , Nunes Parente Henrique , Valério Geron Luiz Juliano , de Azevedo Câmara Larissa Rodrigues
Published: July 2016

The objective was to evaluate the ingestive behavior of ovine fed Marandu grass silage with dehydrated brewery residue added. The experiment had a completely randomized design with five treatments and four repetitions, with the treatments levels of inclusion being of 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40% natural matter of naturally dehydrated brewery residue for 36 hours to the marandu grass silage. 20 ovines were used and the experimental period was 21 days, 15 being for adaptation to diets. The use of brewery byproduct promoted quadratic effect (P<0.05) for the consumption of dry matter with maximum point value estimated at adding 23.25% additive. Ingestion efficiency and rumination efficiency of dry matter (g DM/hour) were significant (P<0.05), by quadratic behavior, and NDF ingestion and rumination efficiency showed crescent linear behavior. The DM and NDF consumption expressed in kg/meal and in minutes/kg were also significant (P<0.05), showing quadratic behavior. Rumination activity expressed in g DM and NDF/piece was influenced (P<0.05) by the adding of brewery residue in marandu grass silage in quadratic way, with maximum value estimated of 1.57 g DM/bolus chewed in inclusion of 24.72% additive in grass silage. The conclusion is that intermediary levels adding of 20 to 25% dehydrated brewery residue affects certain parameters of ingestive behavior.
Measurement of Surface Damage through Boundary Detection: An Approach to Assess Durability of Cementitious Composites under Tannery Wastewater
Authors: Manzur Tanvir , Mahmood Ehsan Khaled , Lamia Sultana Sinha , Mahmud Samira
Published: July 2016

Concrete structures are often subjected to aggressive aqueous environments which consist of several chemical agents that can react with concrete to produce adverse effects. A Central Effluent Treatment Plant consisting of reinforced concrete structures which is being constructed at Savar, Bangladesh, is an example of such a case. The purpose of this treatment facility is to reduce the environmental pollution created by tannery wastewater. However, tannery wastewater consists of several chemicals such as sulfates, chlorides, and ammonium, which, from the literature, are known to generate detrimental effects on concrete. Evaluation of durability of concrete structures in such environments is therefore imperative. This paper highlights a technique of boundary detection developed through image processing performed using MATLAB. Cement mortar cubes were submerged in simulated tannery wastewater and the images of the surface of cubes were taken at several time intervals. In addition, readings for compressive strength and weight were also taken on the same days. In this paper, an attempt is made to correlate the results from image processing with that of strength and weight loss. It was found, within the scope of this study, that the specimens which suffered greater strength and weight loss also underwent greater loss of surface area.
Evaluation of Exercise Tolerance in Dialysis Patients Performing Tai Chi Training: Preliminary Study
Authors: Dziubek Wioletta , Bulińska Katarzyna , Kusztal Mariusz , Kowalska Joanna , Rogowski Łukasz , Zembroń-Łacny Agnieszka , Gołębiowski Tomasz , Ochmann Bartosz , Pawlaczyk Weronika , Klinger Marian , Woźniewski Marek
Published: July 2016

Introduction. Patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) have poor physical performance and exercise capacity due to frequent dialysis treatments. Tai Chi exercises can be very useful in the area of rehabilitation of people with ESRD. Objectives. The aim of the study was to assess exercise capacity in ESRD patients participating in 6‐month Tai Chi training. Patients and Methods. Twenty dialysis patients from Wroclaw took part in the training; at the end of the project, 14 patients remained (age 69.2 ± 8.6 years). A 6‐minute walk test (6MWT) and spiroergometry were performed at the beginning and after 6 months of training. Results. After 6 months of Tai Chi, significant improvements were recorded in mean distance in the 6MWT (387.89 versus 436.36 m), rate of perceived exertion (7.4 versus 4.7), and spiroergometry (8.71 versus 10.08 min). Conclusions. In the ESRD patients taking part in Tai Chi training, a definite improvement in exercise tolerance was recorded after the 6‐month training. Tai Chi exercises conducted on days without dialysis can be an effective and interesting form of rehabilitation for patients, offering them a chance for a better quality of life and fewer falls and hospitalisations that are the result of it.
Association of Serum Adropin Concentrations with Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Hu Wenchao , Chen Li
Published: July 2016

Objective. Adropin is a newly identified regulatory protein encoded by the Enho gene and is critically involved in energy homeostasis and insulin sensitivity. This study aims to determine the correlation of serum adropin concentrations with diabetic nephropathy (DN).Methods. This study consisted of 245 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and 81 healthy subjects. Then T2DM patients were divided into normoalbuminuria, microalbuminuria, and macroalbuminuria subgroups based on urine albumin to creatinine ratio (ACR).Results. T2DM patients showed significantly lower serum adropin concentrations than those in the controls. T2DM patients with macroalbuminuria had significantly decreased serum adropin concentrations compared with the other three groups. In addition, T2DM patients with microalbuminuria showed lower serum adropin concentrations than those in patients with normoalbuminuria. Logistic regression analysis showed that serum adropin was correlated with decreased risk of developing T2DM and DN. Pearson correlation analysis indicated that serum adropin was negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI), blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and ACR and positively correlated with glomerular filtration rate. Furthermore, multiple linear regression analysis showed that BMI and ACR were negatively correlated with serum adropin levels.Conclusion. Serum adropin concentrations are negatively associated with renal function. Adropin may be implicated in the pathogenesis of DN development.
Short-Term Acceptability of the Woman’s Condom among Married Couples in Shanghai
Authors: Wu Junqing , Huang Zirong , Coffey Patricia S. , Kilbourne-Brook Maggie
Published: July 2016

Background. The Woman’s Condom, a second-generation female condom designed for acceptability, is poised for introduction in China. Method. This single-arm study was conducted among 60 couples in China in 2010 to assess acceptability of the Woman’s Condom. Results. Male participants reported that ease of handling, inserting, and removing the device improved significantly from first to fourth use. Female and male participants reported that comfort during insertion, feel of lubricant during insertion, comfort/fit of outer ring during use, and overall comfort improved significantly from first to fourth use. Further, at fourth use, female participants reported significant improvement in the comfort of the feel of the condom material and lubricant. Female and male participants reported that satisfaction with stability and sensation during sex and ability to achieve orgasm improved significantly from first to fourth use. At fourth use, female participants reported statistically significant improvement in sensation compared to using nothing. A majority of participants (78%) stated that they would use the Woman’s Condom in the future, primarily due to its dual protection profile. Conclusion. This study has shown that, in China, the Woman’s Condom appears to be acceptable to married couples. User experience contributes to improvement in many aspects of device acceptability.
Pancreatic Acinar Cells Employ miRNAs as Mediators of Intercellular Communication to Participate in the Regulation of Pancreatitis-Associated Macrophage Activation
Authors: Zhao Yong , Wang Hao , Lu Ming , Qiao Xin , Sun Bei , Zhang Weihui , Xue Dongbo
Published: July 2016

Macrophage activation plays an important role in the inflammatory response in acute pancreatitis. In the present study, the activation of AR42J pancreatic acinar cells was induced by taurolithocholate treatment. The results showed that the culture medium from the activated AR42J cells significantly enhanced NFκB activation in the macrophages compared to that without taurolithocholate treatment. Additionally, the precipitates obtained from ultracentrifugation of the culture media that were rich in exosomes were markedly more potent in activating macrophages compared with the supernatant fraction lacking exosomes. The results indicated that the mediators carried by the exosomes played important roles in macrophage activation. Exosomal miRNAs were extracted and examined using microarrays. A total of 115 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified, and 30 showed upregulated expression, while 85 displayed downregulated expression. Target genes of the differentially expressed miRNAs were predicted using TargetScan, MiRanda, and PicTar software programs. The putative target genes were subjected to KEGG functional analysis. The functions of the target genes were primarily enriched in MAPK pathways. Specifically, the target genes regulated macrophage activation through the TRAF6-TAB2-TAK1-NIK/IKK-NFκB pathway. As the mediators of signal transduction, miRNAs and their predicted target mRNAs regulate every step in the MAPK pathway.
Parametric Study of Fuel Distribution Effects on a Kerosene-Based Scramjet Combustor
Authors: Yang Jun , Wu Xian-yu , Wang Zhen-guo
Published: July 2016

Generally, the overall performance of scramjet combustor is greatly impacted by the fuel distribution scheme. The current paper mainly conducted a comprehensive parametric study of the impact of fuel distribution on the overall performance of a kerosene-based scramjet combustor. Herein, a 3D supersonic combustor with a recessed cavity and four injection orifices was taken into consideration. The combustor’s performance was analyzed by 3D RANS model. The fuel equivalence ratio for each injection port was taken as the design variables. And the combustion efficiency, the total pressure recovery coefficient, and the drag coefficient were chosen as the objective functions. Some novel data mining methods including DOE technique, Kriging approximation model, interaction analysis, and main effects analysis methods were employed to conduct the parametric study. The distributed fuel injection scheme was optimized by nondominated sorting genetic algorithm. The results show that three objective functions were remarkably affected by both of the total fuel equivalence ratio and the fuel distribution scheme. The objective functions cannot reach the optimal solution at the same time, and there must be a tradeoff among the objective functions.
Induced Magnetic Anisotropy in Liquid Crystals Doped with Resonant Semiconductor Nanoparticles
Authors: Marzal Vicente , Torres Juan Carlos , Pérez Isabel , Sánchez-Pena José Manuel , García-Cámara Braulio
Published: July 2016

Currently, there are many efforts to improve the electrooptical properties of liquid crystals by means of doping them with different types of nanoparticles. In addition, liquid crystals may be used as active media to dynamically control other interesting phenomena, such as light scattering resonances. In this sense, mixtures of resonant nanoparticles hosted in a liquid crystal could be a potential metamaterial with interesting properties. In this work, the artificial magnetism induced in a mixture of semiconductor nanoparticles surrounded by a liquid crystal is analyzed. Effective magnetic permeability of mixtures has been obtained using the Maxwell-Garnett effective medium theory. Furthermore, permeability variations with nanoparticles size and their concentration in the liquid crystal, as well as the magnetic anisotropy, have been studied.
Stability Analysis of Anchored Soil Slope Based on Finite Element Limit Equilibrium Method
Authors: Zhang Rui , Zhao Jie , Wang Guixuan
Published: July 2016

Under the condition of the plane strain, finite element limit equilibrium method is used to study some key problems of stability analysis for anchored slope. The definition of safe factor in slices method is generalized into FEM. The “true” stress field in the whole structure can be obtained by elastic-plastic finite element analysis. Then, the optimal search for the most dangerous sliding surface with Hooke-Jeeves optimized searching method is introduced. Three cases of stability analysis of natural slope, anchored slope with seepage, and excavation anchored slope are conducted. The differences in safety factor quantity, shape and location of slip surface, anchoring effect among slices method, finite element strength reduction method (SRM), and finite element limit equilibrium method are comparatively analyzed. The results show that the safety factor given by the FEM is greater and the unfavorable slip surface is deeper than that by the slice method. The finite element limit equilibrium method has high calculation accuracy, and to some extent the slice method underestimates the effect of anchor, and the effect of anchor is overrated in the SRM.
Generation of Hydroacoustic Waves by an Oscillating Ice Block in Arctic Zones
Authors: Kadri Usama
Published: July 2016

The time harmonic problem of propagating hydroacoustic waves generated in the ocean by a vertically oscillating ice block in arctic zones is discussed. The generated acoustic modes can result in orbital displacements of fluid parcels sufficiently high that may contribute to deep ocean currents and circulation. This mechanism adds to current efforts for explaining ocean circulation from a snowball earth Neoproterozoic Era to greenhouse earth arctic conditions and raises a challenge as the extent of ice blocks shrinks towards an ice-free sea. Surprisingly, unlike the free-surface setting, here it is found that the higher acoustic modes exhibit a larger contribution.
Development in Rubber Preparation for Endoscopic Training Simulator
Authors: Surangsrirat D. , Tongkratoke A. , Samphanyuth S. , Sununtachaikul T. , Pramuanjaroenkij A.
Published: July 2016

Endoscopy is one of the most important procedures in diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal tract problems. While endoscopic procedure has tremendous benefits, physicians require considerable practice and time to develop competency. Current endoscopic training process involves cognitive learning and hands-on training under the supervision of an expert gastroenterologist. Previous studies have shown that fellow involvement prolongs procedural time and incurs additional expenses to the institution. Moreover, the patient also experiences more discomfort and injury risk. Introduction of training simulator into the training process could reduce the involvement of the patients and thus reduce the risk. Porcine model is commonly used for training in endoscopy due to the similar tactile response to a human gastrointestinal tract. However, information on elastic behavior of pig or human gastrointestinal tract for the engineering purposes was limited. In this study, the modulus of elasticity and ultimate tensile stress data of the pig stomach and intestines, small and large intestines, were measured and compared with multiple rubber stomach and intestines models. Based on the experimental results and experienced gastroenterologists feedback, the proposed dipped rubber composition can provide a satisfactory tactile feedback and could be used to simulate a human gastrointestinal tract for an endoscopic simulation training model.
Study on the Mechanism of mTOR‐Mediated Autophagy during Electroacupuncture Pretreatment against Cerebral Ischemic Injury
Authors: Wu Zhou-Quan , Cui Su-yang , Zhu Liang , Zou Zhi-qing
Published: July 2016

This study is aimed at investigating the association between the electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment‐induced protective effect against early cerebral ischemic injury and autophagy. EA pretreatment can protect cerebral ischemic and reperfusion injuries, but whether the attenuation of early cerebral ischemic injury by EA pretreatment was associated with autophagy is not yet clear. This study used the middle cerebral artery occlusion model to monitor the process of ischemic injury. For rats in the EA pretreatment group, EA pretreatment was conducted at Baihui acupoint before ischemia for 30 min for 5 consecutive days. The results suggested that EA pretreatment significantly increased the expression of autophagy in the cerebral cortical area on the ischemic side of rats. But the EA pretreatment‐induced protective effects on the brain could be reversed by the specific inhibitor 3‐methyladenine of autophagy. Additionally, the Pearson correlation analysis indicated that the impact of EA pretreatment on p‐mTOR (2481) was negatively correlated with its impact on autophagy. In conclusion, the mechanism of EA pretreatment at Baihui acupoint against cerebral ischemic injury is mainly associated with the upregulation of autophagy expression, and its regulation of autophagy may depend on mTOR‐mediated signaling pathways.
Guard Band-Based Resource Sharing for Device-to-Device Communications Underlying Cellular Network
Authors: Li Yue , Sha Xuejun , Ye Liang , Fang Xiaojie
Published: July 2016

The performance of device-to-device (D2D) communication in a cellular network depends on the resource sharing between D2D links and cellular users. Existing researches on resource sharing mainly focus on power control between the D2D users and cellular users that operate in the same frequency band. However, the D2D outage probability performance is hampered by the cellular interference to D2D links. Therefore, the D2D users may not achieve satisfactory SINR performance when D2D users and cellular users are geographically located in a small area; as a result, the outage probability performance would be significantly degraded. In this paper, we provide a novel resource sharing strategy to mitigate the interference from cellular users to D2D receivers by utilizing the low energy characteristics of signals in the guard band and analyze the D2D outage probability performance mathematically. Both the mathematical analysis and numerical results show that the proposed resource sharing strategy provides 1.2 dB SNR gain in D2D outage probability performance while guaranteeing the cellular throughputs.
A 4-Point Block Method for Solving Higher Order Ordinary Differential Equations Directly
Authors: Waeleh Nazreen , Abdul Majid Zanariah
Published: July 2016

An alternative block method for solving fifth-order initial value problems (IVPs) is proposed with an adaptive strategy of implementing variable step size. The derived method is designed to compute four solutions simultaneously without reducing the problem to a system of first-order IVPs. To validate the proposed method, the consistency and zero stability are also discussed. The improved performance of the developed method is demonstrated by comparing it with the existing methods and the results showed that the 4-point block method is suitable for solving fifth-order IVPs.
Tacrolimus Therapy for Three Patients with Elderly-Onset Ulcerative Colitis: Report of Three Cases
Authors: Kobayashi Rumiko , Matsumoto Satohiro , Yoshida Yukio
Published: July 2016

In recent years, cases of elderly-onset ulcerative colitis (UC) have been increasing in number and are currently reported to account for 10–15% of all cases of UC. Although the treatment of UC is essentially similar between older and younger patients, evidence of the therapeutic efficacy of tacrolimus in elderly-onset UC patients is still limited. Herein, we report our attempt to induce remission using tacrolimus in three patients with elderly-onset UC. A 75-year-old Japanese woman, a 71-year-old Japanese man and a 76-year-old Japanese woman with severe elderly-onset UC of the pancolitis type were treated with tacrolimus. Although all three patients showed response to the drug, the eventual outcome was poor in the first patient, who developed toxic megacolon, underwent surgery, and suffered from recurrent infections and hemorrhage after the surgery. However, clinical remission was successfully achieved in the second and third patient. Tacrolimus shows some indication of effectiveness in the treatment of elderly-onset UC. However, in elderly-onset UC patients, it is necessary to keep in mind the higher risk of adverse effects of medical therapy and postoperative complications because of the high comorbidity rates. Moreover, in situations where surgery needs to be considered, it is important to ensure appropriate timing of the surgery.
Validity and Reliability of the Arabic Version of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale
Authors: Yehya Arij , Ghuloum Suhaila , Mahfoud Ziyad , Opler Mark , Khan Anzalee , Hammoudeh Samer , Abdulhakam Abdulmoneim , Al-Mujalli Azza , Hani Yahya , Elsherbiny Reem , Al-Amin Hassen
Published: July 2016

Background: The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) is widely used for patients with schizophrenia. This scale is reliable and valid. The PANSS was translated and validated in several languages. Objective: The aim of this study was to translate and validate the PANSS in the Arab population. Subjects and Methods: The PANSS was translated into formal Arabic language using the back-translation method. 101 Arab patients with schizophrenia and 98 Arabs with no diagnosis of any mental disorder were recruited. The Arabic version of the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI-6) was used as a diagnostic tool to confirm the diagnosis of schizophrenia or rule out any diagnosis for the healthy control group. Reliability of the scale was assessed by calculating internal consistency, interrater reliability and test-retest reliability. Construct validity was assessed using the Arabic version of the MINI-6. PANSS total scores were correlated with the Clinical Global Impression-Severity scale. Results: Our findings showed that the internal consistency was good (0.92). Scores on the PANSS of the patients were much higher than those of the healthy controls. The PANSS showed good interrater reliability and test-retest reliability (0.92 and 0.75, respectively). In comparison with the MINI-6, the PANSS showed good sensitivity and specificity, which implies good construct validity of this version. Conclusion: In conclusion, the Arabic version of the PANSS is a reliable and valid instrument for the assessment of patients with schizophrenia in the Arab population.
Exophthalmos Revealing a Krukenberg Tumor: A Case Presentation and Review of the Literature
Authors: Fetohi Mohamed , Errarhay Sanaa , Bazine Aziz , Namad Tarikq
Published: July 2016

Background: Krukenberg tumor is a well-known ovarian metastasis, usually of signet ring cell carcinoma in female patients. In the literature, there are a few documented cases of ocular metastasis in patients with Krukenberg tumor. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 35-year-old single Moroccan woman. She presented chronic pelvic pain, hematemesis and blurring of vision in the left eye. Clinical examination showed a pelvic mass and an exophthalmos with a divergent strabismus in the left eye. Pelvic and abdominal ultrasound showed a right tissular ovarian mass. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis revealed an ovarian tumor and bone metastasis. Orbital magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a hypertrophy of the left inferior rectus muscle behind the exophthalmos. Stomach endoscopy revealed an ulcerated and protruded mass of the antro-fundic junction. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry showed an infiltration of the gastric mucosa by atypically isolated signet ring cells similar to the tumor cells found in the ovarian histopathological exams. Discussion: Krukenberg tumor is an uncommon metastatic tumor of the ovary. This article provides an overview of the major pathological manifestations of Krukenberg tumor, patient characteristics, clinical and laboratory features of the disease, prognostic factors, and current knowledge about its pathogenesis.
Rio de Janeiro 2016: a cidade em movimento
Authors: Mascarenhas Gilmar
Published: July 2016

Para sediar os Jogos Olímpicos de 2016, a cidade do Rio de Janeiro tem vivido um período de transformações materiais e simbólicas sem paralelo em seus 450 anos de história. Neste artigo, tentamos oferecer um panorama essencial do conjunto das transformações urbanas e argumentar sobre como tais intervenções correspondem a um modo de gestão urbana, que David Harvey (1996) identificou e sugeriu chamar de “empreendedorismo urbano”.