bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Round Window Stimulation Performance in Otosclerosis Using Finite Element Modeling
Authors: Yang Shanguo , Xu Dan , Liu Xiaole
Published: February 2016

Round window (RW) stimulation is a new type of middle ear implant’s application for treating patients with middle ear disease, such as otosclerosis. However, clinical outcomes show a substantial degree of variability. One source of variability is the variation in the material properties of the ear components caused by the disease. To investigate the influence of the otosclerosis on the performance of the RW stimulation, a human ear finite element model including middle ear and cochlea was established based on a set of microcomputerized tomography section images of a human temporal bone. Three characteristic changes of the otosclerosis in the auditory system were simulated in the FE model: stapedial annular ligament stiffness enlargement, stapedial abnormal bone growth, and partial fixation of the malleus. The FE model was verified by comparing the model-predicted results with published experimental measurements. The equivalent sound pressure (ESP) of RW stimulation was calculated via comparing the differential intracochlear pressure produced by the RW stimulation and the normal eardrum sound stimulation. The results show that the increase of stapedial annular ligament and partial fixation of the malleus decreases RW stimulation’s ESP prominently at lower frequencies. In contrast, the stapedial abnormal bone growth deteriorates RW stimulation’s ESP severely at higher frequencies.
Comparative Numerical Study of Four Biodiesel Surrogates for Application on Diesel 0D Phenomenological Modeling
Authors: Ngayihi Abbe Claude Valery , Danwe Raidandi , Nzengwa Robert
Published: February 2016

To meet more stringent norms and standards concerning engine performances and emissions, engine manufacturers need to develop new technologies enhancing the nonpolluting properties of the fuels. In that sense, the testing and development of alternative fuels such as biodiesel are of great importance. Fuel testing is nowadays a matter of experimental and numerical work. Researches on diesel engine’s fuel involve the use of surrogates, for which the combustion mechanisms are well known and relatively similar to the investigated fuel. Biodiesel, due to its complex molecular configuration, is still the subject of numerous investigations in that area. This study presents the comparison of four biodiesel surrogates, methyl-butanoate, ethyl-butyrate, methyl-decanoate, and methyl-9-decenoate, in a 0D phenomenological combustion model. They were investigated for in-cylinder pressure, thermal efficiency, andNOxemissions. Experiments were performed on a six-cylinder turbocharged DI diesel engine fuelled by methyl ester (MEB) and ethyl ester (EEB) biodiesel from wasted frying oil. Results showed that, among the four surrogates, methyl butanoate presented better results for all the studied parameters. In-cylinder pressure and thermal efficiency were predicted with good accuracy by the four surrogates.NOxemissions were well predicted for methyl butanoate but for the other three gave approximation errors over 50%.
Association between Maternal Pelvis Height and Intrapartum Foetal Head Moulding in Ugandan Mothers with Spontaneous Vertex Deliveries
Authors: Munabi Ian G. , Luboga Samuel Abilemech , Luboobi Livingstone , Mirembe Florence
Published: February 2016

Introduction. In Sub-Saharan Africa, excessive foetal head moulding is commonly associated with cephalopelvic disproportion and obstructed labour. This study set out to determine the associations of maternal pelvis height and maternal height with intrapartum foetal head moulding.Methods. This was a multisite secondary analysis of maternal birth records of mothers with singleton pregnancies ending in a spontaneous vertex delivery. A summary of the details of the pregnancy and delivery records were reviewed and analysed using multilevel logistic regression respect to foetal head moulding. The alpha level was set atP<0.05.Results. 412 records were obtained, of which 108/385 (28%) observed foetal head moulding. There was a significant reduction in risk of foetal head moulding with increasing maternal height (Adj. IRR 0.97,P=0.05), maternal pelvis height (Adj. IRR 0.88,P<0.01), and raptured membranes (Adj. IRR 0.10,P<0.01). There was a significant increased risk of foetal head moulding with increasing birth weight (Adj. IRR 1.90,P<0.01) and duration of monitored active labour (Adj. IRR 1.21,P<0.01) in the final model.Conclusion. This study showed that increasing maternal height and maternal pelvis height were associated with a significant reduction in intrapartum foetal head moulding.
Adaptation Algorithm of Geometric Graphs for Robot Motion Planning in Dynamic Environments
Authors: Park Jae-Han , Bae Ji-Hun , Baeg Moon-Hong
Published: February 2016

This study proposes an adaptive graph algorithm for collision-free motion planning of articulated robots in dynamic environments. For this purpose, deformations of the configuration space were analyzed according to the changes of the workspace using various simulations. Subsequently, we adopted the principles of gas motion dynamics in our adaptation algorithm to address the issue of the deformation of the configuration space. The proposed algorithm has an adaptation mechanism based on expansive repulsion and sensory repulsion, and it can be performed to provide the entire adaptation using distributed processing. The simulation results confirmed that the proposed method allows the adaptation of the roadmap graph to changes of the configuration space.
Does Subacromial Osteolysis Affect Shoulder Function after Clavicle Hook Plating?
Authors: Sun Siwei , Gan Minfeng , Sun Han , Wu Guizhong , Yang Huilin , Zhou Feng
Published: February 2016

Purpose.To evaluate whether subacromial osteolysis, one of the major complications of the clavicle hook plate procedure, affects shoulder function.Methods.We had performed a retrospective study of 72 patients diagnosed with a Neer II lateral clavicle fracture or Degree-III acromioclavicular joint dislocation in our hospital from July 2012 to December 2013. All these patients had undergone surgery with clavicle hook plate and were divided into two groups based on the occurrence of subacromial osteolysis. By using the Constant-Murley at the first follow-up visit after plates removal, we evaluated patients’ shoulder function to judge if it has been affected by subacromial osteolysis.Results.We have analyzed clinical data for these 72 patients, which shows that there is no significant difference between group A (39 patients) and group B (33 patients) in age, gender, injury types or side, and shoulder function (the Constant-Murley scores are93.38±3.56versus94.24±3.60,P>0.05).Conclusion.The occurrence of subacromial osteolysis is not rare, and also it does not significantly affect shoulder function.
Cytoprotective Effect ofLygodium venustumSw. (Lygodiaceae) against Mercurium Chloride Toxicity
Authors: Figueredo Fernando G. , Lima Luciene F. , Morais-Braga Maria Flaviana B. , Tintino Saulo R. , Farias Pablo A. M. , Matias Edinardo F. F. , Costa José Galberto M. , Menezes Irwin R. A. , Pereira Raimundo L. S. , Coutinho Henrique D. M.
Published: February 2016

Mercury is a very dangerous metal when humans come into contact with it, whether through the air or skin or by ingestion. The aim of this work was to investigate the possible effects of the ethanol extract and fractions ofLygodium venustumSw. against mercurium chloride toxicity towardsEscherichia colistrain ATCC25922. The polyphenols and flavonoids present in the extract and fractions were quantified in mg equivalent of gallic acid/g sample and mg equivalent of quercetin/g sample, respectively. Thein vitroFRAP method demonstrated the antioxidant activity of the samples. The antibacterial activity of the natural products was evaluated by microdilution method and by assays to elucidate the possible cytoprotective action when combining the natural products samples and mercurium chloride, utilizing the extract and fractions at a subinhibitory concentration. The results obtained in this work indicate that the ethanol extract and fractions ofL. venustumare an alternative source of natural products with cytoprotective action, where this protection is correlated with antioxidant and chelating activity, due to the presence of total phenols and flavonoids.
Chest Pain: The Need to Consider Less Frequent Diagnosis
Authors: Magalhães Pedro , Morais Anabela , Carvalho Sofia , Cunha Joana , Lima Ana R. , Moreira J. Ilídio , Faria Trigo
Published: February 2016

Chest pain is one of the most frequent patient’s complaints. The commonest underlying causes are well known, but, sometimes, in some clinical scenarios, it is necessary to consider other diagnoses. We report a case of a 68-year-old Caucasian male, chronically hypertensive, who complained of recurrent episodes of chest pain and fever with elevated acute phase reactants. The first investigation was negative for some of the most likely diagnosis and he quickly improved with anti-inflammatory drugs. Over a few months, his symptoms continued to recur periodically, his hypertension was aggravated, and he developed headaches and lower limbs claudication. After a temporal artery biopsy that was negative for vasculitis, he underwent a positron emission tomography suggestive of Takayasu Arteritis. Takayasu Arteritis is a rare chronic granulomatous vasculitis of the aorta and its first-order branches affecting mostly females up to 50 years old. Chest pain is experienced by >40% of the patients and results from the inflammation of the aorta, pulmonary artery, or coronaries.
Nasopharyngeal Tuberculosis: Epidemiology, Mechanism of Infection, Clinical Manifestations, and Management
Authors: Srivanitchapoom Chonticha , Sittitrai Pichit
Published: February 2016

Nasopharyngeal tuberculosis (NPTB) is a noteworthy disease especially in its worldwide spread of theMycobacteriuminfection. Although NPTB has been identified in less than one percent of TB cases, recent multiple case reports indicate an either increased awareness or incidence of this disease. The most helpful diagnostic tool is an uncomplicated nasopharyngeal biopsy. However, NPTB is usually ignored because it has varied clinical manifestations and similar presentations with other more common head and neck diseases. Furthermore, the most common presenting symptom is cervical lymphadenopathy mimicking nasopharyngeal carcinoma, a more common and serious disease. Treatment outcomes of NPTB are good in both HIV-positive or HIV-negative patients. In addition, pulmonary tuberculosis association was reported in wide range between 8.3% and 82% which should be considered in a treatment program. In conclusion, early diagnosis and management in NPTB can be achieved by (1) increased awareness of this disease, (2) improvement in knowledge regarding clinical manifestations, and (3) improvement of diagnostic techniques.
Antioxidant and DNA Repair Stimulating Effect of Extracts from Transformed and Normal Roots of Rhaponticum carthamoides against Induced Oxidative Stress and DNA Damage in CHO Cells
Authors: Skała Ewa , Sitarek Przemysław , Różalski Marek , Krajewska Urszula , Szemraj Janusz , Wysokińska Halina , Śliwiński Tomasz
Published: February 2016

Rhaponticum carthamoides has a long tradition of use in Siberian folk medicine. The roots and rhizomes of this species are used in various dietary supplements or nutraceutical preparations to increase energy level or eliminate physical weakness. This is the first report to reveal the protective and DNA repair stimulating abilities of R. carthamoides root extracts in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells exposed to an oxidative agent. Both transformed root extract (TR extract) and extract of soil‐grown plant roots (NR extract) may be responsible for stimulating CHO cells to repair oxidatively induced DNA damage, but CHO cells stimulated with extract from the transformed roots demonstrated significantly stronger properties than cells treated with the soil‐grown plant root extract. These differences in biological activity may be attributed to the differences in the content of phenolic compounds in these root extracts. Preincubation of the CHO cells with TR and NR extracts showed an increase in gene expression and protein levels of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD2). R. carthamoides may possess antioxidant properties that protect CHO cells against oxidative stress.
Comparative Evaluation of Pain Scores during Periodontal Probing with or without Anesthetic Gels
Authors: Mishra Ashank , Priyanka Mandapathi , Pradeep Koppolu , Reddy Pathakota Krishnajaneya
Published: February 2016

Context. The initial periodontal examination which includes full-mouth periodontal probing is one of the discomforting procedures for a patient.Aim.To evaluate the efficacy of two local anesthetic gels in the reduction of pain during periodontal probing using Florida probe in CGP patients in comparison with manual probing.Materials and Methods. Ninety systemically healthy patients with moderate to severe CGP patients were recruited. In each patient, the quadrants were randomly assigned to manual probing with UNC-15 probe, probing with Florida probe, and Florida probing with lidocaine 10% gel and with benzocaine 20% gel. In the quadrants undergoing probing with anesthetic gels, the sites were isolated and the gel was injected using syringe and a blunt-end cannula. Pain was measured using 10 mm horizontal VAS.Statistical Analysis. The analysis was carried out using SPSS version 18. The comparison of mean VAS scores was done using repeated measures ANOVA with post hoc Bonferroni test.Results. Mean VAS for manual probing was significantly more than Florida probing. Further, the mean VAS score for Florida probing was higher than the two gels.Conclusion. It is suggested that the gels might be useful in reducing pain experienced during full-mouth periodontal probing in patients with CGP.
An Admission Control Method Based on QoS Constraint of BSN Traffic Aggregation
Authors: Xu Zhenyu , Shi Shuo , Gu Xuemai , Wang Zhenbang , Zhu Shida
Published: February 2016

In the body sensor networks (BSN), sensor nodes transmit data to remote receiving terminal via sink node. During the process of data aggregation, interference and self-similar character of wireless business have significant influence on traffic queue performance of sink node. To balance traffic quality of service (QoS) requirement and system present available resource and decide optimum resource distribution project. Hence, a complex function of sink node cache length, distributed channel rate and packet loss probability, and queue delay is built in this paper. Based on the function, by combining multiple target optimizing method and considering joint constraint of queue delay and packet loss probability, we proposed an admission control method based on traffic aggregation QoS constraint. In a BSN consisting of a large amount of sensor nodes, by admission control of sink node, reasonable acceptance of new nodes, and distribution sink node resource, the method we proposed can meet needs of important parameters in WSN design.
Ageing‐Associated Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Are Alleviated by Products from Grapes
Authors: Petersen K. S. , Smith C.
Published: February 2016

Advanced age is associated with increased incidence of a variety of chronic disease states which share oxidative stress and inflammation as causative role players. Furthermore, data point to a role for both cumulative oxidative stress and low grade inflammation in the normal ageing process, independently of disease. Therefore, arguably the best route with which to address premature ageing, as well as age‐associated diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and dementia, is preventative medicine aimed at modulation of these two responses, which are intricately interlinked. In this review, we provide a detailed account of the literature on the communication of these systems in the context of ageing, but with inclusion of relevant data obtained in other models. In doing so, we attempted to more clearly elucidate or identify the most probable cellular or molecular targets for preventative intervention. In addition, given the absence of a clear pharmaceutical solution in this context, together with the ever‐increasing consumer bias for natural medicine, we provide an overview of the literature on grape (Vitis vinifera) derived products, for which beneficial effects are consistently reported in the context of both oxidative stress and inflammation.
Erythrocytosis due toPHD2Mutations: A Review of Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis, and Genetics
Authors: Wilson Rachel , Syed Nausheen , Shah Prabodh
Published: February 2016

The association of mutations in the PHD2 protein of the hypoxia-sensing pathway and erythrocytosis has only been established in the last decade. Here we report the case of a novelPHD2gene mutation in a patient with erythrocytosis and summarize all reported cases to date.Case Report. A 55-year-old man presented with dyspnea and a previous diagnosis of idiopathic erythrocytosis.PHDgene sequencing revealed a mutation on exon 2. The mutation was recognized as p.(Trp334⁎) (c. 1001G>A) resulting in a truncation of a highly conserved amino acid residue in catalytic domain. A diagnosis of erythrocytosis secondary to mutantPHD2gene was made.Conclusions. Our findings indicate that withPHD2mutations there is moderate erythrocytosis and erythropoietin (Epo) levels are generally low to normal. Two patients withPHD2substitution mutations were found to have paraganglioma and one of these patients had a concurrent pheochromocytoma. In addition, one mutation was associated with sagittal sinus thrombosis. Given the severity of some of the clinical features of these mutations, we conclude that clinical guidelines should include thePHD2mutation in the idiopathic erythrocytosis workup.
Dendrobium officinale Prevents Early Complications in Streptozotocin‐Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Hou Shao-zhen , Liang Chu-yan , Liu Hua-zhen , Zhu Dong-mei , Wu Ya-yun , Liang Jian , Zhao Ya , Guo Jian-ru , Huang Song , Lai Xiao-Ping
Published: February 2016

Background. Dendrobium officinale (DO) Kimura et Migo is a precious Chinese herb that is considered beneficial for health due to its antioxidant and antidiabetes properties, and so on. In this research, we try to determine the preventive effect of DO on the early complications of STZ‐induced diabetic rats. Methods. Type 1 diabetic rats were produced with a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (50 mg/kg). DO (1 g/kg/day) was then orally administered for 5 weeks. Blood glucose, TC, TG, BUN, CREA, and GSH‐PX levels were determined, and electroretinographic activity and hypoalgesia were investigated. Pathological sections of the eyes, hearts, aortas, kidneys, and livers were analyzed. Results. Treatment with DO significantly attenuated the serum levels of TC, TG, BUN, and CREA, markedly increased the amplitudes of ERG a‐ and b‐waves and Ops, and reduced the hypoalgesia and histopathological changes of vital organs induced by hyperglycemia. The protective effect of DO in diabetic rats may be associated with its antioxidant activity, as evidenced by the marked increase in the serum level of glutathione peroxidase. However, DO had no significant effect on blood glucose levels and bodyweight of diabetic rats. Conclusions. DO supplementation is an effective treatment to prevent STZ‐induced diabetic complications.
Clinical Outcome of Eradication Therapy for Gastric Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma according toH. pyloriInfection Status
Authors: Kim Ju Seok , Kang Sun Hyung , Moon Hee Seok , Sung Jae Kyu , Jeong Hyun Yong
Published: February 2016

Background. To evaluate the long-term outcome ofH. pylorieradication therapy for gastric MALT lymphoma according to the presence ofH. pyloriinfection.Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients between January 2001 and June 2014. The clinicopathologic characteristics and clinical outcomes were compared betweenH. pylori-positive andH. pylori-negative gastric MALT lymphoma groups.Results. Fifty-four patients were enrolled: 12H. pylori-negative and 42H. pylori-positive patients. The tumor was located more frequently in both the proximal and distal parts of the stomach (P=0.001), and the percentage of multiple lesions was significantly greater in theH. pylori-negative group (P=0.046). Forty-seven patients received initial eradication therapy, and 85% (35/41) ofH. pylori-positive patients and 50% (3/6) ofH. pylori-negative patients achieved complete remission after eradication therapy. The presence of multiple lesions was a predictive factor for unresponsiveness toH. pylorieradication (P=0.024). The efficacy of eradication therapy (P=0.133), complete remission (CR) maintenance period, and relapse after eradication therapy were not significantly different between the two groups.Conclusions.H. pylorieradication therapy could be an effective first-line treatment for localizedH. pylori-negative gastric MALT lymphoma, especially for single lesions.
2D Multitransient Electromagnetic Response Modeling of South China Shale Gas Earth Model Using an Approximation of Finite Difference Time Domain with Uniaxial Perfectly Matched Layer
Authors: Fayemi Olalekan , Di Qingyun
Published: February 2016

In this study, we introduced multitransient electromagnetic (MTEM) method as an effective tool for shale gas exploration. We combined the uniaxial perfectly matched layer (UPML) equation with the first derivative diffusion equation to solve for a finite difference time domain (FDTD) UPML equation, which was discretized to form an algorithm for 3D modeling of earth impulse response and used in modeling MTEM response over 2D South China shale gas model. We started with stepwise demonstration of the UPML and the FDTD algorithm as an effective tool. Subsequently, quantitative study on the convergence of MTEM earth impulse response was performed using different grid setup over a uniform earth material. This illustrates that accurate results can be obtained for specified range of offset. Furthermore, synthetic responses were generated for a set of geological scenarios. Lastly, the FDTD algorithm was used to model the MTEM response over a 2D shale gas earth model from South China using a PRBS source. The obtained apparent resistivity section from the MTEM response showed a similar geological setup with the modeled 2D South China shale gas section. This study confirmed the competence of MTEM method as an effective tool for unconventional shale gas prospecting and exploitation.
Periodontal Health Status among Patients with Behçet’s Disease
Authors: Habibagahi Zahra , Khorshidi Hooman , Hekmati Shahrzad
Published: February 2016

We aimed to evaluate the relationship of individual periodontal parameters with the severity of Behçet’s disease (BD) and attempt to find the correlation between chronic periodontitis and BD. In this study, 74 registered subjects attending Behçet’s clinic with BD symptoms were recruited. The diagnosis was based on the criteria presented by the international study group for BD (ISG) and the total clinical severity score was determined for each patient. All individuals underwent clinical examination to assess oral and periodontal status and presence of oral ulcers. Periodontal clinical parameters of bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL) and also hygiene index (HI) and decayed, missing, and filled (DMF) teeth were noted and analyzed to assess the correlation with severity of BD. There was no significant correlation between DMF and severity of BD. The strong association was found between periodontal parameters (BOP, PD, and CAL) and the severity of BD (P<0.001). It seems that relation of BD to oral health is higher up in severe forms of BD and periodontal diseases. Clinical association between the diseases might be due to a common underlying etiopathogenesis of periodontitis and BD.
Electromagnetic Mathematical Modeling of 3D Supershaped Dielectric Lens Antennas
Authors: Mescia L. , Bia P. , Caratelli D. , Chiapperino M. A. , Stukach O. , Gielis J.
Published: February 2016

The electromagnetic analysis of a special class of 3D dielectric lens antennas is described in detail. This new class of lens antennas has a geometrical shape defined by the three-dimensional extension of Gielis’ formula. The analytical description of the lens shape allows the development of a dedicated semianalytical hybrid modeling approach based on geometrical tube tracing and physical optic. In order to increase the accuracy of the model, the multiple reflections occurring within the lens are also taken into account.
The Role of Isotretinoin Therapy for Cushing’s Disease: Results of a Prospective Study
Authors: Vilar Lucio , Albuquerque José Luciano , Lyra Ruy , Trovão Diniz Erik , Rangel Filho Frederico , Gadelha Patrícia , Thé Ana Carolina , Ibiapina George Robson , Gomes Barbara Sales , Santos Vera , Melo da Fonseca Maíra , Frasão Viana Karoline , Lopes Isis Gabriella , Araújo Douglas , Naves Luciana
Published: February 2016

Objective. This prospective open trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of isotretinoin (13-cis-retinoic acid) in patients with Cushing’s disease (CD).Methods. Sixteen patients with CD and persistent or recurrent hypercortisolism after transsphenoidal surgery were given isotretinoin orally for 6–12 months. The drug was started on 20 mg daily and the dosage was increased up to 80 mg daily if needed and tolerated. Clinical, biochemical, and hormonal parameters were evaluated at baseline and monthly for 6–12 months.Results. Of the 16 subjects, 4% (25%) persisted with normal urinary free cortisol (UFC) levels at the end of the study. UFC reductions of up to 52.1% were found in the rest. Only patients with UFC levels below 2.5-fold of the upper limit of normal achieved sustained UFC normalization. Improvements of clinical and biochemical parameters were also noted mostly in responsive patients. Typical isotretinoin side-effects were experienced by 7 patients (43.7%), though they were mild and mostly transient. We also observed that the combination of isotretinoin with cabergoline, in relatively low doses, may occasionally be more effective than either drug alone.Conclusions. Isotretinoin may be an effective and safe therapy for some CD patients, particularly those with mild hypercortisolism.
ITPI: Initial Transcription Process‐Based Identification Method of Bioactive Components in Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula
Authors: Zhang Baixia , Li Yanwen , Zhang Yanling , Li Zhiyong , Bi Tian , He Yusu , Song Kuokui , Wang Yun
Published: February 2016

Identification of bioactive components is an important area of research in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula. The reported identification methods only consider the interaction between the components and the target proteins, which is not sufficient to explain the influence of TCM on the gene expression. Here, we propose the Initial Transcription Process‐based Identification (ITPI) method for the discovery of bioactive components that influence transcription factors (TFs). In this method, genome‐wide chip detection technology was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The TFs of DEGs were derived from GeneCards. The components influencing the TFs were derived from STITCH. The bioactive components in the formula were identified by evaluating the molecular similarity between the components in formula and the components that influence the TF of DEGs. Using the formula of Tian‐Zhu‐San (TZS) as an example, the reliability and limitation of ITPI were examined and 16 bioactive components that influence TFs were identified.
Approximating Optimal Release in a Deterministic Model for the Sterile Insect Technique
Authors: Ramirez Sergio , Gordillo Luis F.
Published: February 2016

Cost/benefit analyses are essential to support management planning and decisions before launching any pest control program. In particular, applications of the sterile insect technique (SIT) are often prevented by the projected economic burden associated with rearing processes. This has had a deep impact on the technique development and its use on insects with long larval periods, as often seen in beetles. Under the assumptions of long adult timespan and multiple mating, we show how to find approximate optimal sterile release policies that minimize costs. The theoretical framework proposed considers the release of insects by pulses and finds approximate optimal release sizes through stochastic searching. The scheme is then used to compare simulated release strategies obtained for different pulse schedules and release bounds, providing a platform for evaluating the convenience of increasing sterile male release intensity or extending the period of control.
Cytotoxic and Apoptotic Activities of Methanolic Subfractions of Scrophularia oxysepala against Human Breast Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Orangi Mona , Pasdaran Ardalan , Shanehbandi Dariush , Kazemi Tohid , Yousefi Bahman , Hosseini Behnaz-Alsadat , Baradaran Behzad
Published: February 2016

Herbs have played a positive role in medicine for thousands of years. In the current study, we investigated the cytotoxicity effects of Scrophularia oxysepala methanolic subfractions and the underlying mechanism responsible for cell death in human breast carcinoma (MCF‐7 cells) and mouse fibrosarcoma (WEHI‐164 cells). From 60% and 80% methanolic fractions, four subfractions (Fa, Fb, Fc, and Fd), yielded from size exclusion by Sephadex‐LH20 column chromatography, were chosen. MTT assay revealed that all subfractions significantly reduced cell viability after 24 h and 36 h in a dose‐dependent manner; it is worth noting that Fa and Fb subfractions had the highest cytotoxicity, with IC50 values of 52.9 and 61.2 μg/mL in MCF‐7 at 24 h, respectively. ELISA, TUNEL, and DNA fragmentation assay revealed that antiproliferative effects of all subfractions were associated with apoptosis on cancer cells, without any significant effect on L929 normal cells. qRT‐PCR data showed that, after 24 h treatment with IC50 concentrations of the subfractions, caspase‐3 expression was increased in cancer cells while the expression of Bcl‐2 was decreased. S. oxysepala methanolic subfractions induce apoptosis in MCF‐7 and WEHI‐164 cells and could be considered as a source of natural anticancer agents.
A Review of Implementing ADC in RFID Sensor
Authors: Zurita M. , Freire R. C. S. , Tedjini S. , Moshkalev S. A.
Published: February 2016

The general considerations to design a sensor interface for passive RFID tags are discussed. This way, power and timing constraints imposed by ISO/IEC 15693 and ISO/IEC 14443 standards to HF RFID tags are explored. A generic multisensor interface is proposed and a survey analysis on the most suitable analog-to-digital converters for passive RFID sensing applications is reported. The most appropriate converter type and architecture are suggested. At the end, a specific sensor interface for carbon nanotube gas sensors is proposed and a brief discussion about its implemented circuits and preliminary results is made.
Hip Fracture-Related Mortality among Older Adults in the United States: Analysis of the CDC WONDER Multiple Cause of Death Data, 1999–2013
Authors: Orces Carlos H.
Published: February 2016

Objectives. To examine trends in hip fracture-related mortality among older adults in the United States between 1999 and 2013. Material and Methods. The Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiological Research system was used to identify adults aged 65 years and older with a diagnosis of hip fracture reported in their multiple cause of death record. Joinpoint regression analyses were performed to estimate the average annual percent change in hip fracture-related mortality rates by selected characteristics. Results. A total of 204,254 older decedents listed a diagnosis of hip fracture on their death record. After age adjustment, hip fracture mortality rates decreased by −2.3% (95% CI, −2.7%, and −1.8%) in men and −1.5% (95% CI, −1.9%, and −1.1%) in women. Similarly, the proportion of in-hospital hip fracture deaths decreased annually by −2.1% (95% CI, −2.6%, and −1.5%). Of relevance, the proportion of cardiovascular diseases reported as the underlying cause of death decreased on average by −4.8% (95% CI, −5.5%, and −4.1%). Conclusions. Hip fracture-related mortality decreased among older adults in the United States. Downward trends in hip fracture-related mortality were predominantly attributed to decreased deaths among men and during hospitalization. Moreover, improvements in survival of hip fracture patients with greater number of comorbidities may have accounted for the present findings.
Erythropoiesis in Malaria Infections and Factors Modifying the Erythropoietic Response
Authors: Pathak Vrushali A. , Ghosh Kanjaksha
Published: February 2016

Anemia is the primary clinical manifestation of malarial infections and is responsible for the substantial rate of morbidity. The pathophysiology discussed till now catalogued several causes for malarial anemia among which ineffective erythropoiesis being remarkable one occurs silently in the bone marrow. A systematic literature search was performed and summarized information on erythropoietic response upon malaria infection and the factors responsible for the same. This review summarizes the clinical and experimental studies on patients, mouse models, and in vitro cell cultures reporting erythropoietic changes upon malaria infection as well as factors accountable for the same. Inadequate erythropoietic response during malaria infection may be the collective effect of various mediators generated by host immune response as well as parasite metabolites. The interplay between various modulators causing the pathophysiology needs to be explored further. Globin gene expression profiling upon malaria infection should also be looked into as abnormal production of globin chains could be a possible contributor to ineffective erythropoiesis.
The Preventive Effect of Zuogui Wan on Offspring Rats’ Impaired Glucose Tolerance Whose Mothers Had Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Wang Yuwei , Feng Qianjin , Niu Xin , Xu Kaixia , Wang Yingli , Wang Jinlong , Li Qiuju , Mao Yingqiu , Gao Shuangrong
Published: February 2016

In this experiment, we used streptozotocin (STZ) to establish a model of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) rats, where Zuogui Wan was given to GDM rats. After pregnancy, offspring rats were divided into 4 groups: control group, high fat and sugar as the control group, GDM group, and Zuogui Wan GDM group. Rats in high fat and sugar as the control group, GDM group, and Zuogui Wan GDM group were fed with high fat and sugar diet. Rats in control group were fed the basic diet. The means of 2hPG were higher than 7.8 mmol·L−1 and lower than 11.1 mmol·L−1 on the rats of GDM group on week 15, and IGT models were successful. Body weight, abdominal fat weight, the ratio of abdominal fat weight and body weight, fasting plasma glucose, 2hPG, insulin, leptin, total cholesterol, and low density lipoprotein (LDL) of Zuogui Wan GDM group were significantly lower than GDM group. The level of adiponectin in Zuogui Wan GDM group was significantly higher than GDM group. And we concluded that giving Zuogui Wan to GDM rats can have a preventive effect on the offsprings’ IGT induced by high fat and sugar diet.
Pancreatic Stenting Reduces Post-ERCP Pancreatitis and Biliary Sepsis in High-Risk Patients: A Randomized, Controlled Study
Authors: Yin He-Kun , Wu Hai-En , Li Qi-Xiang , Wang Wei , Ou Wei-Lin , Xia Harry Hua-Xiang
Published: February 2016

Background. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an established treatment modality for bile duct disorders, but patients have a risk of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) and biliary sepsis.Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of pancreatic stent for prophylaxis of PEP and biliary sepsis in high-risk patients with complicating common bile duct (CBD) disorders.Methods. Two hundred and six patients with complicating confirmed or suspected CBD disorders were randomly assigned to receive ERCP with pancreatic stenting (experimental group) or without stenting (control group). Primary outcome measure was frequency of PEP, and secondary outcome measures included operative time, blood loss, postoperative recovery times, and other ERCP-associated morbidities.Results. Baseline age, sex, CBD etiology, concomitant medical/surgical conditions, cannulation difficulty, and ERCP success were comparable between the two groups (allP>0.05). Compared to the control group, the experimental group had a significantly lower frequency of PEP (7.7%versus17.7%,P<0.05) and positive bile microbial culture (40.4%versus62.7%,P<0.05). However, the two groups were similar in operative time, blood loss, postoperative recovery times, and other ERCP-associated morbidities (allP>0.05).Conclusions. Pancreatic stenting can reduce the occurrence of PEP and biliary sepsis in high-risk patients with complicating CBD disorders but does not increase other ERCP-associated morbidities. This trial is registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (registration identifierChiCTR-OCH-14005134).
Novel Leptin Receptor Mutations Identified in Two Girls with Severe Obesity Are Associated with Increased Bone Mineral Density
Authors: Hannema Sabine E. , Wit Jan M. , Houdijk Mieke E.C.A.M. , van Haeringen Arie , Bik Elsa C. , Verkerk Annemieke J.M.H. , Uitterlinden André G. , Kant Sarina G. , Oostdijk Wilma , Bakker Egbert , Delemarre-van de Waal Henriette A. , Losekoot Monique
Published: February 2016

Background: Recessive mutations in the leptin receptor (LEPR) are a rare cause of hyperphagia and severe early-onset obesity. To date, the phenotype has only been described in 25 obese children, some of whom also had altered immune function, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, reduced growth hormone secretion, hypothalamic hypothyroidism or reduced adult height. We provide a detailed description of the phenotype of 2 affected girls to add to this knowledge. Methods: Whole-exome sequencing and targeted sequencing were used to detect the LEPR mutations. RNA analysis was performed to assess the effect of splice-site mutations. Results: In 2 unrelated girls with severe obesity, three novel LEPR mutations were detected. Longitudinal growth data show normal childhood growth, and in the older girl, a normal adult height despite hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and the lack of an obvious pubertal growth spurt. Bone age is remarkably advanced in the younger (prepubertal) girl, and bone mineral density (BMD) is high in both girls, which might be directly or indirectly related to leptin resistance. Conclusion: The spectrum of clinical features of LEPR deficiency may be expanded with increased BMD. Future observations in LEPR-deficient subjects should help further unravel the role of leptin in human bone biology.
Safety and Diagnostic Yield of Transbronchial Lung Cryobiopsy in Diffuse Parenchymal Lung Diseases: A Comparative Study versus Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Lung Biopsy and a Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Ravaglia Claudia , Bonifazi Martina , Wells Athol U. , Tomassetti Sara , Gurioli Carlo , Piciucchi Sara , Dubini Alessandra , Tantalocco Paola , Sanna Stefano , Negri Eva , Tramacere Irene , Ventura Valentina Anna , Cavazza Alberto , Rossi Andrea , Chilosi Marco , La Vecchia Carlo , Gasparini Stefano , Poletti Venerino
Published: February 2016

Background: A diagnosis of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) may include surgical lung biopsy (SLB), which is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and also appreciable costs. Transbronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC) is adopting an important role. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic yield (DY) and safety of TBLC and SLB in a large cohort of patients and to perform a systematic review of the literature as well as a meta-analysis. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 447 cases with ILD undergoing TBLC and/or SLB and a systematic review of the literature (MEDLINE and Embase for all original articles on the DY and safety of TBLC in ILDs up to July 2015). Results: A total of 150 patients underwent SLB and 297 underwent TBLC. The median time of hospitalization was 6.1 days (SLB) and 2.6 days (TBLC; p < 0.0001). Mortality due to adverse events was observed for 2.7% (SLB) and 0.3% (TBLC) of the patients. Pneumothorax was the most common complication after TBLC (20.2%). No severe bleeding was observed. TBLC was diagnostic for 246 patients (82.8%), SLB for 148 patients (98.7%, p = 0.013). A meta-analysis of 15 investigations including 781 patients revealed an overall DY of 0.81 (0.75-0.87); the overall pooled probability of developing a pneumothorax, as retrieved from 15 studies including 994 patients, was 0.06 (95% CI 0.02-0.11). Conclusion: Cryobiopsy is safe and has lower complication and mortality rates compared to SLB. TBLC might, therefore, be considered the first diagnostic approach for obtaining tissue in ILDs, reserving the surgical approach for cases in which TBLC is not diagnostic.
Glomerular Filtration Rate and Error Calculation Based on the Slope-Intercept Method with Chromium-51 Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid via a New Clinical Software: GFRcalc
Authors: Geist Barbara Katharina , Diemling Markus , Staudenherz Anton
Published: February 2016

Objective: To evaluate a home-built Java-based program (GFRcalc) to simplify the calculation of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) after administration of chromium-51 ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (51Cr-EDTA) for routine clinical use. Materials and Methods: In the program GFRcalc, the GFR was calculated based on the biological half-life of the 51Cr-EDTA concentration using the slope-intercept method of between two and five blood samples. Additional features included the ability to export patient data and generate clinical reports as well as to calculate the error of the fit of the GFR measurement in cases with three or more blood samples collected. The GFR was calculated from one, two and three blood samples of 133 patients with body surface-corrected GFR of 21-213 ml/min/1.73 m2. The Pearson correlation coefficient and the error of the fit for the GFR measurement were calculated for the three-sample method. Results: The correlation coefficient for the three-sample method and the fit error correlated well for small fit errors; in case of fit errors >10%, the correlation coefficient partially differed in results compared to the other methods. The three-sample GFR values differed by approximately 17% from the single-sample GFRs. The fit errors of the three-sample GFRs correlated (r = 0.57) with their difference from the two-sample GFRs. Conclusion: In this study, the fit error that GFRcalc provided for the three-sample GFR offered a simple and reliable method to check the results obtained. This could also allow physicians to assess the reliability of the results and base their decisions on the quality of the measurement.
Anatomical Characters of Aquilaria microcarpa Interacting with Fusarium sp
Authors: Siburian Rima HS , Siregar Ulfah J. , Siregar Iskandar Z. , Santoso Erdy , Wahyudi Imam
Published: February 2016

AbstractAquilaria microcarpa is one of agarwood-producing plants, Interaction of pathogenic fungi may cause physiological changes in plants that have an impact on visual changes in cells, tissues or organs of plants. This study aims to determine differences in the anatomical characters of Aquilaria microcarpa that have been inoculated with Fusarium sp. Observations of anatomical characters showed that traits of inoculated and un-inoculated Aquilaria microcarpa in general are partly different. The difference was found in wood color, odor/aroma, the pores of wood and leather inserted visible. Chemical compounds contained in the plant interact with fusarium was Elemol, Baimuxinal, 3-phenyl-2-butanone, chromen-4-one.
Binary Vector Construction and Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated Transformation of Lysozyme Gene in Seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii
Authors: Handayani Tri , Alimuddin Alimuddin , Widyastuti Utut , Suryati Emma , Parenrengi Andi
Published: February 2016

Ice-ice disease is the biggest problem in the cultivation of seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii. The disease is caused by bacterial infection and induced by drastic changes of water quality. Lysozyme has the ability to break down bacterial cell wall. The purpose of this research was to construct of a binary vector pMSH1-Lys carrying chicken Lysozyme (Lis) gene and introduce pMSH1-Lis on K. alvarezii. The binary vector expression was transformed into Agrobacterium tumefaciens LBA4404 by triparental mating. Thallus was inoculated with A. tumefaciens carrying pMSH1-Lis and then the transformed thallus was selected by adding 20 mg/L hygromycin to the culture medium. PCR analysis showed that the construction of the binary plasmid pMSH1-Lys was established. Percentage of transformation of pMSH1-Lis on K. alvarezii was 23.56%, while the efficiency of regeneration was 11.32%. PCR analysis showed that three of the regenerated thallus contained Lysozyme gene. Thus, transgenic K. alvarezii was produced successfully and this can be useful for studying the mechanisms of seaweed defense against bacterial infection.
Restoration Priority Index Development of Degraded Tropical Forest Landscape in Batang Toru Watershed, North Sumatera Indonesia
Authors: Samsuri Samsuri , Jaya I Nengah Surati , Kusmana Cecep , Murtilaksono Kukuh
Published: February 2016

Forest degradation has been important in the context of global issues since it contributes to the global climate change significanly.Â  Forest degradation of tropical rain forest area reduces global biological resources and has impact on occurence of poverty in community.Â  It also increases forest fragmentation and decreases forest connectivity as wildlife habitat.Â  To improve the connectivity, landscape restoration approach is used. Â This paper describes the forest landscape restoration priority index to decide where the site gets restoration priority. Â Restoration index is constructed by four factors indices that are index of forest degradation, forest connectivity, forest fragmentation, and socio economic of forest communities. Batang Toru forest landscape was getting pressure during the period 1989-2013. Â Forest landscape fragmentation degree increased in the period 1989-2013, while the degree of connectivity tends to increase. Â Forest connectivity index effects the restoration index more than other. Â It implies that connectivity of Batang Toru forest landscape needs to be maintained and enhanced. It will provide proper habitat and reduce loss of biodiversity. Restoration index classifies Batang Toru forest landscape into low, medium and high priority for restoration. Sub-watershed of Sarula has high restoration index value so that it must be restored firstly.