bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of genetic parameter estimation of pork loin quality of crossbred commercial pigs using technological quality measurements of frozen and unfrozen product
Authors: Lei Huaigang , Zhang Chunyan , Li Changxi , Plastow Graham S. , Bruce Heather L.
Published: February 2018

Meat quality characteristics have been measured on fresh and previously frozen meat as part of genetic studies, but freezing of meat may alter its quality characteristics and, therefore, the relationships between genetic components and meat quality measurements. Pork color, pH, and drip loss measurements performed on longissimus dorsi from the carcasses of 2027 crossbred commercial pigs when either fresh or thawed after frozen storage were used to estimate genetic parameters using a bivariate animal model in ASReml. Meat quality traits measured before and after freezing and thawing were significantly (P < 0.0001) different from each other and intramuscular crude fat content exerted a large effect on the magnitude of change in L* (lightness) and b* (yellowness). Meat quality measurements of fresh pork were moderately to highly heritable except for b* and pH, with heritability estimates for L*, pH, and drip loss greater when measured on fresh rather than frozen-thawed samples. Considering heritability and genetic correlation results, we concluded that whilst either fresh or frozen-thawed pork samples can be used for fresh pork L*, a* (redness), and b* measurements, pH, and possibly drip loss should be measured in fresh pork samples rather than in those that have been frozen-thawed during genetic selection for fresh pork quality.
Identification of Retinal Ganglion Cell Firing Patterns Using Clustering Analysis Supplied with Failure Diagnosis
Authors: Ghahari Alireza , Kumar Sumit R. , Badea Tudor C.
Published: February 2018

An important goal in visual neuroscience is to understand how neuronal population coding in vertebrate retina mediates the broad range of visual functions. Microelectrode arrays interface on isolated retina registers a collective measure of the spiking dynamics of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) by probing them simultaneously and in large numbers. The recorded data stream is then processed to identify spike trains of individual RGCs by efficient and scalable spike detection and sorting routines. Most spike sorting software packages, available either commercially or as freeware, combine automated steps with judgment calls by the investigator to verify the quality of sorted spikes. This work focused on sorting spikes of RGCs into clusters using an integrated analytical platform for the data recorded during visual stimulation of wild-type mice retinas with whole field stimuli. After spike train detection, we projected each spike onto two feature spaces: a parametric space and a principal components space. We then applied clustering algorithms to sort spikes into separate clusters. To eliminate the need for human intervention, the initial clustering results were submitted to diagnostic tests that evaluated the results to detect the sources of failure in cluster assignment. This failure diagnosis formed a decision logic for diagnosable electrodes to enhance the clustering quality iteratively through rerunning the clustering algorithms. The new clustering results showed that the spike sorting accuracy was improved. Subsequently, the number of active RGCs during each whole field stimulation was found, and the light responsiveness of each RGC was identified. Our approach led to error-resilient spike sorting in both feature extraction methods; however, using parametric features led to less erroneous spike sorting compared to principal components, particularly for low signal-to-noise ratios. As our approach is reliable for retinal signal processing in response to simple visual stimuli, it could be applied to the evaluation of disrupted physiological signaling in retinal neurodegenerative diseases.
Variable speed limit strategies analysis with mesoscopic traffic flow model based on complex networks
Authors: Li Shu-Bin , Cao Dan-Ni , Dang Wen-Xiu , Zhang Lin
Published: February 2018

As a new cross-discipline, the complexity science has penetrated into every field of economy and society. With the arrival of big data, the research of the complexity science has reached its summit again. In recent years, it offers a new perspective for traffic control by using complex networks theory. The interaction course of various kinds of information in traffic system forms a huge complex system. A new mesoscopic traffic flow model is improved with variable speed limit (VSL), and the simulation process is designed, which is based on the complex networks theory combined with the proposed model. This paper studies effect of VSL on the dynamic traffic flow, and then analyzes the optimal control strategy of VSL in different network topologies. The conclusion of this research is meaningful to put forward some reasonable transportation plan and develop effective traffic management and control measures to help the department of traffic management.
The role of selection on evolutionary rescue
Authors: Amirjanov Adil
Published: February 2018

The paper investigates the role of selection on evolutionary rescue of population. The statistical mechanics technique is used to model dynamics of a population experiencing a natural selection and an abrupt change in the environment. The paper assesses the selective pressure produced by two different mechanisms: by strength of resistance and by strength of selection (by intraspecific competition). It is shown that both mechanisms are capable of providing an evolutionary rescue of population in particular conditions. However, for a small level of an extinction rate, the population cannot be rescued without intraspecific competition.
A stress sensitivity model for the permeability of porous media based on bi-dispersed fractal theory
Authors: Tan X.-H. , Liu C.-Y. , Li X.-P. , Wang H.-Q. , Deng H.
Published: February 2018

A stress sensitivity model for the permeability of porous media based on bidispersed fractal theory is established, considering the change of the flow path, the fractal geometry approach and the mechanics of porous media. It is noted that the two fractal parameters of the porous media construction perform differently when the stress changes. The tortuosity fractal dimension of solid cluster [Formula: see text] become bigger with an increase of stress. However, the pore fractal dimension of solid cluster [Formula: see text] and capillary bundle [Formula: see text] remains the same with an increase of stress. The definition of normalized permeability is introduced for the analyzation of the impacts of stress sensitivity on permeability. The normalized permeability is related to solid cluster tortuosity dimension, pore fractal dimension, solid cluster maximum diameter, Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio. Every parameter has clear physical meaning without the use of empirical constants. Predictions of permeability of the model is accordant with the obtained experimental data. Thus, the proposed model can precisely depict the flow of fluid in porous media under stress.
Josephson junction in the quantum mesoscopic electric circuits with charge discreteness
Authors: Pahlavani H.
Published: February 2018

A quantum mesoscopic electrical LC-circuit with charge discreteness including a Josephson junction is considered and a nonlinear Hamiltonian that describing the dynamic of such circuit is introduced. The quantum dynamical behavior (persistent current probability) is studied in the charge and phase regimes by numerical solution approaches. The time evolution of charge and current, number-difference and the bosonic phase and also the energy spectrum of a quantum mesoscopic electric LC-circuit with charge discreteness that coupled with a Josephson junction device are investigated. We show the role of the coupling energy and the electrostatic Coulomb energy of the Josephson junction in description of the quantum behavior and the spectral properties of a quantum mesoscopic electrical LC-circuits with charge discreteness.
Band structure of one-dimensional photonic crystal with graphene layers using the Fresnel coefficients method
Authors: Jafari A. , Rahmat A.
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we have calculated the band structure of an instance of one-dimensional photonic crystal (1DPC) composed of double-layered dielectrics via the Fresnel coefficients method. Then, we supposed the addition of a thin layer of graphene to each dielectric layer and the given photonic crystal (PC) composed of dielectric–graphene composites. The effects of graphene layers on the PC band structure were evaluated. We found out that according to the effective medium theory unlike the TE polarization, the electric permittivity of the dielectric layers changed at TM polarization. As such, the band structure of PC for TM polarization changed, too. Moreover, instead of bandgap related to “zero averaged refractive index” an approximately omnidirectional bandgap appeared and a related bandgap to “[Formula: see text] = 0” disappeared. In addition, a new angular gap branch appeared at a new frequency at TM polarization in which the width of gap increased as the angle increased.
Study on the structural transition of CoNi nanoclusters using molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Xia J. H. , Gao Xue-Mei
Published: February 2018

In this work, the segregation and structural transitions of CoNi clusters, between 1500 and 300 K, have been investigated using molecular dynamics simulations with the embedded atom method potential. The radial distribution function was used to analyze the segregation during the cooling processes. It is found that Co atoms segregate to the inside and Ni atoms preferably to the surface during the cooling processes, the Co[Formula: see text]Ni[Formula: see text] cluster becomes a core–shell structure. We discuss the structural transition according to the pair-correction function and pair-analysis technique, and finally the liquid Co[Formula: see text]Ni[Formula: see text] crystallizes into the coexistence of hcp and fcc structure at 300 K. At the same time, it is found that the frozen structure of CoNi cluster is strongly related to the Co concentration.
The cohomology ring of the sapphires that admit the Sol geometry
Authors: Gonçalves Daciberg Lima , Martins Sérgio Tadao
Published: February 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be the fundamental group of a sapphire that admits the Sol geometry and is not a torus bundle. We determine a finite free resolution of [Formula: see text] over [Formula: see text] and calculate a partial diagonal approximation for this resolution. We also compute the cohomology rings [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for an odd prime [Formula: see text], and indicate how to compute the groups [Formula: see text] and the multiplicative structure given by the cup product for any system of coefficients [Formula: see text].
On the stabilization height of fiber surfaces in S3
Authors: Baader Sebastian , Misev Filip
Published: February 2018

The stabilization height of a fiber surface in the 3-sphere is the minimal number of Hopf plumbing operations needed to attain a stable fiber surface from the initial surface. We show that families of fiber surfaces related by iterated Stallings twists have unbounded stabilization height.
Verification of the Jones unknot conjecture up to 22 crossings
Authors: Tuzun Robert E. , Sikora Adam S.
Published: February 2018

We proved by computer enumeration that the Jones polynomial distinguishes the unknot for knots up to 22 crossings. Following an approach of Yamada, we generated knot diagrams by inserting algebraic tangles into Conway polyhedra, computed their Jones polynomials by a divide-and-conquer method, and tested those with trivial Jones polynomials for unknottedness with the computer program SnapPy. We employed numerous novel strategies for reducing the computation time per knot diagram and the number of knot diagrams to be considered. That made computations up to 21 crossings possible on a single processor desktop computer. We explain these strategies in this paper. We also provide total numbers of algebraic tangles up to 18 crossings and of Conway polyhedra up to 22 vertices. We encountered new unknot diagrams with no crossing-reducing pass moves in our search. We report one such diagram in this paper.
On large groups of symmetries of finite graphs embedded in spheres
Authors: Zimmermann Bruno P.
Published: February 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite group acting orthogonally on a pair [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is a finite, connected graph of genus [Formula: see text] embedded in the sphere [Formula: see text]. The 3-dimensional case [Formula: see text] has recently been considered in a paper by C. Wang, S. Wang, Y. Zhang and the present author where for each genus [Formula: see text], the maximum order of an orientation-preserving [Formula: see text]-action on a pair [Formula: see text] is determined and the corresponding graphs [Formula: see text] are classified (an upper bound for the order of [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text]). In the present paper, we consider arbitrary dimensions [Formula: see text] and prove that the order of [Formula: see text] is bounded above by a polynomial of degree [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] is even and of degree [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] is odd; moreover, the degree [Formula: see text] is best possible in even dimensions [Formula: see text]. We discuss also the problem, given a finite graph [Formula: see text] and its finite symmetry group, to find the minimal dimension of a sphere into which [Formula: see text] embeds equivariantly as above.
Coexistence of early-time inflation and late-time acceleration with scalar fields in theory of F(G,T) gravity
Authors: Keskin A. I.
Published: February 2018

In this study, we discuss coexistence of the early-time inflation and the late-time acceleration of the universe in the context of the theory of [Formula: see text] gravity with scalar field which is minimally coupled with the gravity, where [Formula: see text] is the gauss bonnet invariant and [Formula: see text] is the trace of energy–momentum tensor (EMT). We reconstruct the Friedmann equation (FE) and then search for the real value of a particular model [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are real constants. A Gauss–Bonnet system (GBS) for viable cosmologies arising from the matter-source term [Formula: see text] and the scalar field, is obtained. We find that the case [Formula: see text] together with [Formula: see text] in the system gives the late-time cosmic acceleration while the source term [Formula: see text] acts as a quintessence type of dark energy. On the other hand, the general entropy expression of the universe is obtained by making use of the first law of thermodynamics (FLT) method. After theoretically analyzing the inflation in the entropy frame, we find a new condition [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] in the system. Then, from the observational analysis of inflation, the spectral index parameter and the scalar-tensor ratio are calculated under the new condition. In brief, we obtain a viable cosmological system arising from some modifications such as the scalar field and the source term, which can unify the early inflation and the late-time cosmic acceleration besides the deceleration regions of the universe.
MICROSTRUCTURE AND PROPERTIES OF COATING OF AlFeCrNiMo HIGH-ENTROPY ALLOY
Authors: DOU DAN , DENG KUN , LI JIANCHEN
Published: February 2018

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) have recently received significant attention in the materials science community. Some of these alloys can display a good combination of mechanical properties. The perfect dense and smooth coatings of AlFeCrNiMo HEA have been deposited by direct current magnetron sputtering method. The coatings possess single BCC crystal structure. The thickness of the coatings increases with increasing deposited time and plasma power. The coatings display excellent high hardness and Young’s modulus. The corrosion resistance of all coatings in acidic and salt media is better than that of 201 stainless steel. It is expected that the HEA coatings have very broad application prospects.
STUDIES ON STRUCTURAL, SURFACE MORPHOLOGICAL, OPTICAL, LUMINESCENCE AND UV PHOTODETECTION PROPERTIES OF SOL–GEL Mg-DOPED ZnO THIN FILMS
Authors: MAHROUG A. , MARI B. , MOLLAR M. , BOUDJADAR I. , GUERBOUS L. , HENNI A. , SELMI N.
Published: February 2018

Undoped and magnesium-doped zinc oxide thin films were prepared by the sol–gel method. Results from X-ray diffraction indicated that the films exhibited a hexagonal wurtzite structure and were highly oriented along the [Formula: see text]-axis. The intensity of the (002) diffraction peak increased with increasing the Mg doping concentration. Also, Mg doping inhibited the growth of crystallite size which decreased from 46[Formula: see text]nm to 38[Formula: see text]nm with doping concentration. Morphological studies by atomic force microscopy (AFM) indicated the uniform thin film growth and the decreasing of grain size and surface roughness with Mg doping. Optical analysis showed that the average transmittance of all films was above 90% in the visible range and Mg doping has significantly enhanced the bandgap energy of ZnO. Two Raman modes assigned to [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for the ZnO wurtzite structure were observed for all films. UV emission peak and three defect emission peaks in the visible region were observed by photoluminescence measurements at room temperature. The intensity ratio of UV emission to the visible emission increased with the Mg concentration. Photocurrent measurements revealed that all films presented the photoresponses with [Formula: see text]-type semiconducting behavior and their generated photocurrents were reduced by Mg doping. The prepared thin films of high quality with improved properties by Mg doping could be proposed to workers in the field of optoelectronic devices for using them as a strong candidate.
STUDY ON SURFACE CHARGING EFFECT ON MASK DURING PLASMA ETCHING PROCESS THROUGH PARTICLE SIMULATION
Authors: ZHANG P.
Published: February 2018

Damage on the mask surface caused by charging effect during plasma etching process continues to attract much attention currently. For example, the round shape of holes can be changed into hexagonal shape. In our previous paper, the reason for this phenomenon has been explained through a particle simulation approach [P. Zhang et al., Plasma Sci. Technol. 15 (2013) 570]. However, it has been observed that the round shape of holes in a mask can also be etched into an asymmetric shape due to factors such as nonuniform plasma source, inclination or vibration of sample platform, etc. This work further aims to explore the charging effect when the round-shaped holes in a mask have been changed into asymmetric-shaped ones by particle simulation method. The distribution of electric field produced by electrons was calculated for different shaped isolated holes (round, hexagonal and asymmetric shapes) in a mask as well as various heights from the mask surface. It is found that the field strength reaches its maximum around a hole edge and presents uniform distribution for the round hole and nonuniform distribution for the hexagonal- and asymmetric-shaped holes. The nonuniform electric field distribution can affect the trajectories of ions falling on the mask surface, further enhancing the asymmetry of the mask hole shape. Additionally, the charging effect on a mask of asymmetric holes aligned in a hexagonal array is also studied. It is found that due to the alignment of holes, the charging effect is quite different from the case in an isolated hole.
Distributed learning with partial coefficients regularization
Authors: Pang Mengjuan , Sun Hongwei
Published: February 2018

We study distributed learning with partial coefficients regularization scheme in a reproducing kernel Hilbert space (RKHS). The algorithm randomly partitions the sample set [Formula: see text] into [Formula: see text] disjoint sample subsets of equal size. In order to reduce the complexity of algorithms, we apply a partial coefficients regularization scheme to each sample subset to produce an output function, and average the individual output functions to get the final global estimator. The error bound in the [Formula: see text]-metric is deduced and the asymptotic convergence for this distributed learning with partial coefficients regularization is proved by the integral operator technique. Satisfactory learning rates are then derived under a standard regularity condition on the regression function, which reveals an interesting phenomenon that when [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is small enough, this distributed learning has the same convergence rate with the algorithm processing the whole data in one single machine.
Hydrothermal vents and seismic anomalies: implications for the petroleum system NE of Shetland
Authors: Hamilton R. V. , Minshell B. J.
Published: February 2018

The influence of igneous intrusions and their associated vent complexes on hydrocarbon migration is poorly understood, yet may be significant in the exploration of petroleum basins located on passive margins. A regional review of the northeasternmost frontier sector of the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) encompassing the southern extent of the Møre Basin has revealed evidence of extensive vent formation during the Late Paleocene. Anomalous seismic amplitude events that have not been previously described in this area are identified above and clearly related to several of the vent complexes, and a number of scenarios are postulated to explain their presence. Integrating existing geological studies and regional seismic interpretation with a new 3D seismic dataset reveals a close relationship between sills, vents and seismic anomalies which may be related to the presence of gas/fluid. Recognition of the vent complexes as potential fluid conduits long after initial formation may be important in focusing migration to younger stratigraphic levels. Important observations are made regarding a link to possible hydrocarbon migration mechanisms within the study area and the associated implications for hydrocarbon exploration and risking within this petroleum basin are investigated.
Caffeine increases both total work performed above critical power and peripheral fatigue during a 4-km cycling time trial
Authors: Felippe Leandro Camati , Ferreira Guilherme Assunção , Learsi Sara Kely , Boari Daniel , Bertuzzi Romulo , Lima-Silva Adriano Eduardo
Published: February 2018

The link between total work performed above critical power (CP) and peripheral muscle fatigue during self-paced exercise is unknown. We investigated the influence of caffeine on the total work done above CP during a 4-km cycling time trial (TT) and the subsequent consequence on the development of central and peripheral fatigue. Nine cyclists performed three constant-load exercise trials to determine CP and two 4-km TTs ~75 min after oral caffeine (5 mg/kg) or cellulose (placebo) ingestion. Neuromuscular functions were assessed before and 50 min after supplementation and 1 min after TT. Oral supplementation alone had no effect on neuromuscular function ( P > 0.05). Compared with placebo, caffeine increased mean power output (~4%, P = 0.01) and muscle recruitment (as inferred by EMG, ~17%, P = 0.01) and reduced the time to complete the TT (~2%, P = 0.01). Work performed above CP during the caffeine trial (16.7 ± 2.1 kJ) was significantly higher than during the placebo (14.7 ± 2.1 kJ, P = 0.01). End-exercise decline in quadriceps twitch force (pre- to postexercise decrease in twitch force at 1 and 10 Hz) was more pronounced after caffeine compared with placebo (121 ± 13 and 137 ± 14 N vs. 146 ± 13 and 156 ± 11 N; P < 0.05). There was no effect of caffeine on central fatigue. In conclusion, caffeine increases muscle recruitment, which enables greater work performed above CP and higher end-exercise peripheral locomotor muscle fatigue.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The link between total work done above critical power and peripheral fatigue during a self-paced, high-intensity exercise is unclear. This study revealed that caffeine ingestion increases muscle recruitment, which enables greater work done above critical power and a greater degree of end-exercise decline in quadriceps twitch force during a 4-km cycling time trial. These findings suggest that caffeine increases performance at the expense of greater locomotor muscle fatigue.
Chronic, complete cervical6–7cord transection: distinct autonomic and cardiac deficits
Authors: Lujan Heidi L. , Tonson Anne , Wiseman Robert W. , DiCarlo Stephen E.
Published: February 2018

Spinal cord injury (SCI) resulting in tetraplegia is a devastating, life-changing insult causing paralysis and sensory impairment as well as distinct autonomic dysfunction that triggers compromised cardiovascular, bowel, bladder, and sexual activity. Life becomes a battle for independence as even routine bodily functions and the smallest activity of daily living become major challenges. Accordingly, there is a critical need for a chronic preclinical model of tetraplegia. This report addresses this critical need by comparing, for the first time, resting-, reflex-, and stress-induced cardiovascular, autonomic, and hormonal responses each week for 4 wk in 12 sham-operated intact rats and 12 rats with chronic, complete C6–7spinal cord transection. Loss of supraspinal control to all sympathetic preganglionic neurons projecting to the heart and vasculature resulted in a profound bradycardia and hypotension, reduced cardiac sympathetic and parasympathetic tonus, reduced reflex- and stress-induced sympathetic responses, and reduced sympathetic support of blood pressure as well as enhanced reliance on angiotensin to maintain arterial blood pressure. Histological examination of the nucleus ambiguus and stellate ganglia supports the profound and distinct autonomic and cardiac deficits and reliance on angiotensin to maintain cardiovascular stability following chronic, complete cervical6–7cord transection.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY For the first time, resting-, reflex-, and stress-induced cardiovascular, autonomic, and hormonal responses were studied in rats with chronic, complete C6–7cord transection. Loss of supraspinal control of all sympathetic preganglionic neurons reduced cardiac sympathetic and parasympathetic tonus, reflex and stress-induced sympathetic responses, and sympathetic support of blood pressure as well as enhanced reliance on angiotensin to maintain arterial blood pressure. Histological examination supports the distinct deficits associated with cervical cord injury.
Simultaneous Bilateral Quadriceps Tendon Rupture in a Patient with Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis after Minimal Trauma: Eight-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Sıvacıoğlu Sevan , Salduz Ahmet , Öztürk Ufuk , Bayram Serkan , Birişik Fevzi
Published: February 2018

Introduction. The purpose of this report was to describe a very rare case of simultaneous bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture seen in a patient who was diagnosed as having diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis. Case Presentation. A man aged 64 years presented to the emergency department with bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture. Surgical repair was performed with suture anchors and a stainless steel cable. His legs were immobilized in casts for six weeks. After removal of the casts, physiotherapy was started. Four months after surgery, he was able to walk with 0°–120° range of motion and active extension. He was followed up for 8 years without rerupture or other complications. Conclusion. Bilateral rupture of the quadriceps tendon is a rare condition and generally related to metabolic disorders. Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis is a metabolic disorder that causes bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture, and it accounted for the differential diagnosis of the underlying condition.
Exploring the Impact of Early Decisions in Variable Ordering for Constraint Satisfaction Problems
Authors: Ortiz-Bayliss José Carlos , Amaya Ivan , Conant-Pablos Santiago Enrique , Terashima-Marín Hugo
Published: February 2018

When solving constraint satisfaction problems (CSPs), it is a common practice to rely on heuristics to decide which variable should be instantiated at each stage of the search. But, this ordering influences the search cost. Even so, and to the best of our knowledge, no earlier work has dealt with how first variable orderings affect the overall cost. In this paper, we explore the cost of finding high-quality orderings of variables within constraint satisfaction problems. We also study differences among the orderings produced by some commonly used heuristics and the way bad first decisions affect the search cost. One of the most important findings of this work confirms the paramount importance of first decisions. Another one is the evidence that many of the existing variable ordering heuristics fail to appropriately select the first variable to instantiate. Another one is the evidence that many of the existing variable ordering heuristics fail to appropriately select the first variable to instantiate. We propose a simple method to improve early decisions of heuristics. By using it, performance of heuristics increases.
Vitamin D3 Protects against Diabetic Retinopathy by Inhibiting High-Glucose-Induced Activation of the ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 Inflammasome Pathway
Authors: Lu Li , Lu Qianyi , Chen Wei , Li Jingwen , Li Chunxia , Zheng Zhi
Published: February 2018

Purpose. This study aimed to evaluate the mechanisms underlying the effects of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (vitamin D3) on diabetes-induced retinal vascular damage and retinal vascular endothelial cell apoptosis. Methods. Diabetic and control rats were randomly assigned to receive vitamin D3 or vehicle for 6 months. Additionally, human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs) were incubated in normal or high-glucose medium with or without vitamin D3. Morphological changes in retinal tissues and retinal vascular permeability were examined, and cellular apoptosis was detected by fluorescence staining. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were determined using fluorescent probes. Proteins were examined by Western blotting. Results. Vitamin D3 significantly downregulated intracellular ROS and inhibited TRX-interacting protein (TXNIP)/NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathway activation. Additionally, vitamin D3 reduced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. These changes were associated with retinal recovery and with decreases in retinal vascular permeability and retinal capillary cell apoptosis. Conclusions. Vitamin D3 decreases diabetes-induced ROS and exerts protective effects against retinal vascular damage and cell apoptosis in association with inhibition of the ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Understanding the mechanisms of action of vitamin D3 has important implications for preventing and treating inflammatory-related illnesses such as diabetic retinopathy.
Therapeutic Effects of Tangshen Formula on Diabetic Nephropathy indb/dbMice Using Cytokine Antibody Array
Authors: Fan Xue Mei , Huang Chun Lian , Wang Yi Ming , Li Ning , Liang Qiong Lin , Luo Guo An
Published: February 2018

Objective. Cytokines are essential promoters in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN) in type 2 diabetes. The following study investigates the adjustment mechanism ofTangshenformula (TSF) on cytokine expressions indb/dbmice (DN animal model).Materials and Methods.Db/dbmice were randomly divided into three groups. The treated groups were orally administered with TSF and losartan for 12 weeks. Biochemical and histological examinations were determined at 8 and 12 weeks posttreatment, while the cytokine antibody array analysis was applied to analyze the expression of 144 cytokines in kidney tissues at the end of the 12th week posttreatment.Results. TSF significantly reduced urinary albumin excretion and the levels of blood glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, creatinine, and urea nitrogen. Furthermore, a significant decrease in glomerulus and mesangial area, as well as the downregulation of 24 cytokines and upregulated expressions of 5 cytokines, was found in the TSF-treated mice.Conclusions. The present study reveals that TSF could ameliorate the metabolic anomalies and renal injury in db/db mice. One of the important mechanisms for treatment of DN using the treatment of TSF is the control of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway via regulation of IL-2, IL-6, IL-13, Il-15, and IFN-γexpression.
Pharmacological and Structural Characterizations of Naquotinib, a Novel Third-Generation EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, in EGFR-Mutated Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Hirano Toshiyuki , Yasuda Hiroyuki , Hamamoto Junko , Nukaga Shigenari , Masuzawa Keita , Kawada Ichiro , Naoki Katsuhiko , Niimi Tatsuya , Mimasu Shinya , Sakagami Hideki , Soejima Kenzo , Betsuyaku Tomoko
Published: February 2018

Multiple epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKI) have been developed to effectively inhibit EGFR-derived signals in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this study, we assessed the efficacy of EGFR-TKIs, including a novel third-generation inhibitor naquotinib (ASP8273), in clinically relevant EGFR mutations, including L858R, exon 19 deletion, L858R+T790M, exon 19 deletion+T790M with or without a C797S mutation, and several exon 20 insertion mutations. Using structural analyses, we also elucidated the mechanism of activation and sensitivity/resistance to EGFR-TKIs in EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations. The efficacy of naquotinib in cells with L858R, exon 19 deletion and exon 19 deletion+T790M was comparable with that of osimertinib. Interestingly, naquotinib was more potent than osimertinib for L858R+T790M. Additionally, naquotinib and osimertinib had comparable efficacy and a wide therapeutic window for cells with EGFR exon 20 insertions. Structural modeling partly elucidated the mechanism of activation and sensitivity/resistance to EGFR-TKIs in two EGFR exon 20 insertion mutants, A767_V769dupASV and Y764_V765insHH. In summary, we have characterized the efficacy of EGFR-TKIs for NSCLC using in vitro and structural analyses and suggested the mechanism of activation and resistance to EGFR-TKIs of EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations. Our findings should guide the selection of appropriate EGFR-TKIs for the treatment of NSCLC with EGFR mutations and help clarify the biology of EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(4); 740–50. ©2018 AACR.
Novel Familial Variant of the Desert Hedgehog Gene: Clinical Findings in Two Sisters with 46,XY Gonadal Dysgenesis or 46,XX Karyotype and Literature Review
Authors: Baldinotti Fulvia , Cavallaro Tiziana , Dati Eleonora , Baroncelli Giampiero I. , Bertini Veronica , Valetto Angelo , Massart Francesco , Fabrizi Gian Maria , Zanette Giampietro , Peroni Diego , Bertelloni Silvano
Published: February 2018

Background: In humans, Desert Hedgehog (DHH) gene mutations are a very rare cause of 46,XY gonadal dysgenesis (GD), eventually associated with peripheral neuropathy. Patients and Methods: Clinical records of 12 patients with 46,XY GD and unknown genetic background were reviewed and a 46,XY woman with peripheral neuropathy was individuated. Her 46,XX sister affected by similar neuropathy was also investigated. Genomic DNA was extracted and DHH exons sequenced and analyzed. A comparative genomic hybridization array was also performed. Results: In both the 46,XY and 46,XX sisters, a homozygous c.554C>A mutation in exon 2 of the DHH gene was found, determining a premature termination codon (p.Ser 185*). Heterozygous consanguineous carrier parents showed neither reproductive problems nor peripheral neuropathy. In the proband and her sister, a 499-kb duplication in 9p22.1 was also found. Conclusion: A 46,XY European woman with 46,XY GD and a novel homozygous DHH pathogenic variant is reported, confirming that this gene plays a key role in male gonadal development. Her 46,XX sister, harboring the same mutation, showed normal internal and external female phenotype. Thus, DHH seems not to be involved in the ovarian development pathway or its postpubertal function. Homozygous DHH mutations cause a specific peripheral neuropathy in humans with both 46,XY and 46,XX karyotypes.
Ambulatory Assessment of Borderline Personality Disorder
Authors: Trull Timothy J.
Published: February 2018

Ambulatory assessment (AA) is an important tool that promises to minimize retrospective biases while gathering ecologically valid data, including self-reports, physiological or biological data, and observed behavior, for example, from daily life experiences. AA is well suited for studying borderline personality disorder (BPD) because it can measure moods and emotion (as well as dynamic mood processes, mood changes, and mood instability), problematic behaviors (including interpersonal conflicts, addictive behaviors, binge and purge episodes, and motoric activity), and problematic cognitions/expectancies/urges (e.g., rejection sensitivity, cravings, and self-harm urges) as they occur in daily life. In this article, I review existing AA research on BPD, and I discuss future applications of AA as well as limitations and considerations for future use.
Awareness of the New Kidney Allocation System among United States Dialysis Providers with Low Waitlisting
Authors: Patzer Rachel E. , Basu Mohua , Smith Kayla D. , Plantinga Laura , Mohan Sumit , Escoffery Cam , Kim Joyce J. , Melanson Taylor , Pastan Stephen O.
Published: February 2018

It is unknown whether dialysis facility staff are aware of the new kidney allocation system implemented in December 2014, which changed how deceased donor kidneys are allocated and waiting time is calculated. U.S. dialysis facilities with low annual waitlisting (<15.2%) were surveyed as part of a large randomized study. Among 653 facilities, 57.9% of staff were aware of the policy change, with medical directors (84.4%) being more aware than social workers (73.3%), facility administrators (53.1%), nurse managers (46.4%), and other staff (43.8%). Targeted education among dialysis facilities with low waitlisting may help extend the reach of the new policy.
Platelets Drive Thrombus Propagation in a Hematocrit and Glycoprotein VI–Dependent Manner in an In Vitro Venous Thrombosis Model
Authors: Lehmann Marcus , Schoeman Rogier M. , Krohl Patrick J. , Wallbank Alison M. , Samaniuk Joseph R. , Jandrot-Perrus Martine , Neeves Keith B.
Published: February 2018

Objective—

The objective of this study was to measure the role of platelets and red blood cells on thrombus propagation in an in vitro model of venous valvular stasis.

Approach and Results—

A microfluidic model with dimensional similarity to human venous valves consists of a sinus distal to a sudden expansion, where for sufficiently high Reynolds numbers, 2 countercurrent vortices arise because of flow separation. The primary vortex is defined by the points of flow separation and reattachment. A secondary vortex forms in the deepest recess of the valve pocket characterized by low shear rates. An initial fibrin gel formed within the secondary vortex of a tissue factor–coated valve sinus. Platelets accumulated at the interface of the fibrin gel and the primary vortex. Red blood cells at physiological hematocrits were necessary to provide an adequate flux of platelets to support thrombus growth out of the valve sinus. A subpopulation of platelets that adhered to fibrin expose phosphatidylserine. Platelet-dependent thrombus growth was attenuated by inhibition of glycoprotein VI with a blocking Fab fragment or D-dimer.

Conclusions—

A 3-step process regulated by hemodynamics was necessary for robust thrombus propagation: First, immobilized tissue factor initiates coagulation and fibrin deposition within a low flow niche defined by a secondary vortex in the pocket of a model venous valve. Second, a primary vortex delivers platelets to the fibrin interface in a red blood cell–dependent manner. Third, platelets adhere to fibrin, activate through glycoprotein VI, express phosphatidylserine, and subsequently promote thrombus growth beyond the valve sinus and into the bulk flow.
The Elusive Pursuit of Import Substitution in 21st Century Indonesia
Authors: Narjoko Dionisius , Anas Titik , Herdiyanto Robertus
Published: February 2018

This study evaluates the possible impact of an import substitution strategy recently implemented by the Government of Indonesia on the development of the intermediate inputs industry. Based on descriptive analysis, the study suggests that the implementation of the strategy was a misguided decision. Experiences from several countries confirm the negative impact of an import substitution strategy. The econometric analysis shows that trade protection impedes firms’ performance. Thus, it would be preferable for the government to have an open trade regime and to intensify foreign presence in the industry.
Animal Welfare and Animal Rights
Authors: Dolby Nadine , Litster Annette
Published: February 2018

Veterinarians routinely position themselves as the professionals who are most knowledgeable about non-human animals, and the public turns to them for guidance in matters of animal health and welfare. However, as research indicates, there is a considerable gap between what the public thinks veterinarians know and the actual veterinary curriculum. This study investigates the perspectives of veterinary students towards issues of animal welfare and animal rights, based on the results of a 2012 survey. Results indicate that veterinary students have limited and narrow understandings of both concepts, and that their knowledge is shaped by their professional socialization in veterinary education. Despite the enormous ethical complexity and diversity of philosophical perspectives that are inherent to both animal welfare and animal rights positions, veterinary students typically are not adequately prepared for a career that is located at the very center of these debates.
Divine Action and the Meaning of Eternity
Authors: Duby Steven J.
Published: February 2018

In theological and philosophical analysis of divine eternity today there are debates about whether the notion of a ‘timeless’ or ‘atemporal’ God coheres with a Christian understanding of creation and divine action in time. In this article I seek to illumine the coherence of God’s transcendence of time and his presence and action in time by analyzing the concept of motion and the role it might play in an account of divine action and divine eternity. This will involve considering the reflections of some major authors of the Christian tradition on divine eternity and divine action and then exploring how those reflections are rooted in scriptural teaching on God and his relationship to the world. After describing how a right understanding of divine action bears on our understanding of God’s eternity, I will then suggest some specific ways in which this approach can shed light on the nature of God’s action in creation and providence.
Redescription of Alburnus kotschyi Steindachner, 1863, with comments on Alburnus sellal adanensis Battalgazi, 1944 (Teleostei: Leuciscidae)
Authors: FREYHOF JÖRG , ÖZULUĞ MÜFIT , KAYA CÜNEYT , BAYÇELEBI ESRA , TURAN DAVUT
Published: February 2018

Alburnus kotschyi is re-described and a neotype is designated. It is found in a small isolated coastal stream at Arsuz at the eastern Mediterranean coast as well as in the Ceyhan and Seyhan River drainages in southern Anatolia. Alburnus adanensis, from the Seyhan River, seems not to have been found again since its first description in 1944 and might be extinct.
Mountain-Wave Turbulence in the Presence of Directional Wind Shear over the Rocky Mountains
Authors: Guarino Maria-Vittoria , Teixeira Miguel A. C. , Keller Teddie L. , Sharman Robert D.
Published: February 2018

Mountain-wave turbulence in the presence of directional wind shear over the Rocky Mountains in Colorado is investigated. Pilot reports (PIREPs) are used to select cases in which moderate or severe turbulence encounters were reported in combination with significant directional wind shear in the upstream sounding from Grand Junction, Colorado (GJT). For a selected case, semi-idealized numerical simulations are carried out using the WRF-ARW atmospheric model, initialized with the GJT atmospheric sounding and a realistic but truncated orography profile. To isolate the role of directional wind shear in causing wave breaking, sensitivity tests are performed to exclude the variation of the atmospheric stability with height, the speed shear, and the mountain amplitude as dominant wave breaking mechanisms. Significant downwind transport of instabilities is detected in horizontal flow cross sections, resulting in mountain-wave-induced turbulence occurring at large horizontal distances from the first wave breaking point (and from the orography that generates the waves). The existence of an asymptotic wake, as predicted by Shutts for directional shear flows, is hypothesized to be responsible for this downwind transport. Critical levels induced by directional wind shear are further studied by taking 2D power spectra of the magnitude of the horizontal velocity perturbation field. In these spectra, a rotation of the most energetic wave modes with the background wind, as well as perpendicularity between the background wind vector and the wavenumber vector of those modes at critical levels, can be found, which is consistent with the mechanism expected to lead to wave breaking in directional shear flows.
Sensitivity of the Brewer–Dobson Circulation and Polar Vortex Variability to Parameterized Nonorographic Gravity Wave Drag in a High-Resolution Atmospheric Model
Authors: Polichtchouk I. , Shepherd T. G. , Hogan R. J. , Bechtold P.
Published: February 2018

The role of parameterized nonorographic gravity wave drag (NOGWD) and its seasonal interaction with the resolved wave drag in the stratosphere has been extensively studied in low-resolution (coarser than 1.9° × 2.5°) climate models but is comparatively unexplored in higher-resolution models. Using the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Integrated Forecast System at 0.7° × 0.7° resolution, the wave drivers of the Brewer–Dobson circulation are diagnosed and the circulation sensitivity to the NOGW launch flux is explored. NOGWs are found to account for nearly 20% of the lower-stratospheric Southern Hemisphere (SH) polar cap downwelling and for less than 10% of the lower-stratospheric tropical upwelling and Northern Hemisphere (NH) polar cap downwelling. Despite these relatively small numbers, there are complex interactions between NOGWD and resolved wave drag, in both polar regions. Seasonal cycle analysis reveals a temporal offset in the resolved and parameterized wave interaction: the NOGWD response to altered source fluxes is largest in midwinter, while the resolved wave response is largest in the late winter and spring. This temporal offset is especially prominent in the SH. The impact of NOGWD on sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) life cycles and the final warming date in the SH is also investigated. An increase in NOGWD leads to an increase in SSW frequency, reduction in amplitude and persistence, and an earlier recovery of the stratopause following an SSW event. The SH final warming date is also brought forward when NOGWD is increased. Thus, NOGWD is still found to be a very important parameterization for stratospheric dynamics even in a high-resolution atmospheric model.