bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automatic segmentation of cerebral infarcts in follow-up computed tomography images with convolutional neural networks
Authors: Sales Barros Renan , Tolhuisen Manon L , Boers Anna MM , Jansen Ivo , Ponomareva Elena , Dippel Diederik W J , van der Lugt Aad , van Oostenbrugge Robert J , van Zwam Wim H , Berkhemer Olvert A , Goyal Mayank , Demchuk Andrew M , Menon Bijoy K , Mitchell Peter , Hill Michael D , Jovin Tudor G , Davalos Antoni , Campbell Bruce C V , Saver Jeffrey L , Roos Yvo B W E M , Muir Keith W. , White Phil , Bracard Serge , Guillemin Francis , Olabarriaga Silvia Delgado , Majoie Charles B L M , Marquering Henk A
Published: December 2019

Background and purpose

Infarct volume is a valuable outcome measure in treatment trials of acute ischemic stroke and is strongly associated with functional outcome. Its manual volumetric assessment is, however, too demanding to be implemented in clinical practice.

Objective

To assess the value of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) in the automatic segmentation of infarct volume in follow-up CT images in a large population of patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Materials and methods

We included CT images of 1026 patients from a large pooling of patients with acute ischemic stroke. A reference standard for the infarct segmentation was generated by manual delineation. We introduce three CNN models for the segmentation of subtle, intermediate, and severe hypodense lesions. The fully automated infarct segmentation was defined as the combination of the results of these three CNNs. The results of the three-CNNs approach were compared with the results from a single CNN approach and with the reference standard segmentations.

Results

The median infarct volume was 48 mL (IQR 15–125 mL). Comparison between the volumes of the three-CNNs approach and manually delineated infarct volumes showed excellent agreement, with an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.88. Even better agreement was found for severe and intermediate hypodense infarcts, with ICCs of 0.98 and 0.93, respectively. Although the number of patients used for training in the single CNN approach was much larger, the accuracy of the three-CNNs approach strongly outperformed the single CNN approach, which had an ICC of 0.34.

Conclusion

Convolutional neural networks are valuable and accurate in the quantitative assessment of infarct volumes, for both subtle and severe hypodense infarcts in follow-up CT images. Our proposed three-CNNs approach strongly outperforms a more straightforward single CNN approach.
Specific treatment and outcome of urethrorectal fistula associated with type 1 atresia ani in a juvenile male dog
Authors: Franklin Phil Henry , Cronin Anna Maria , Ladlow Jane , Owen Laura
Published: December 2019

A four‐month‐old, entire male, German wirehaired pointer presented with tenesmus due to type I atresia ani and with urination observed through this stenosed anal opening. A positive contrast retrograde urethrogram demonstrated a urethrorectal fistula and stricture of the penile urethra. Urine culture revealed heavy mixed bacterial growth, which was treated with appropriate antibiotics. Surgical correction of the congenital urethrorectal fistula was performed via a perineal approach with a 3.5 French catheter placed retrograde into the fistula to facilitate its dissection. The anal stenosis was addressed by surgical anoplasty and the urethral stricture via a scrotal urethrostomy. The dog recovered well with the owner reporting complete resolution of the clinical signs and urination via the urethrostomy site at six months postoperatively. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first reported case of congenital urethrorectal fistula associated with type 1 atresia ani in a male dog.
Menstrual blood losses and body mass index are associated with serum ferritin concentrations among female varsity athletes
Authors: Mayer Cara , Barker Mikaela K. , Dirk Payge , Moore Kelsey M. , McCrudden Emma , Karakochuk Crystal D.
Published: December 2019

Preventing and treating iron deficiency are important components in the nutritional care of female varsity athletes, as these interventions may improve aerobic endurance and athletic performance. We examined the factors associated with ferritin concentration in 30 female varsity athletes (18–30 years) at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. Biochemical indicators of iron and inflammation status, dietary intake, supplementation practices, weight, height, and menstrual blood losses were assessed. Iron deficiency prevalence was 20% (n = 6/30; inflammation-adjusted ferritin <15 μg/L). Multiple linear regression was used to assess the associations of a number of independent explanatory variables with log-transformed serum ferritin (μg/L) as the continuous outcome variable. A 1-unit increase in body mass index (BMI; kg/m2) was associated with 22% (95% CI: 9%–37%) higher mean ferritin concentrations, and a 1-point increase in menstrual loss score was associated with 1% (95% CI: 1%–2%) lower ferritin concentrations. Hemoglobin and hepcidin concentrations, inflammation biomarkers, consumption of iron supplements in any form or dose for ≥3 days/week, and age were not significantly associated with ferritin concentrations in the final adjusted model.

Novelty Estimated monthly menstrual losses and BMI were associated with serum ferritin concentrations in female athletes in our study. These are easy-to-measure, noninvasive measurements that should be considered in the assessment of risk of iron deficiency in female athletes.
miR-140-5p targeted FGF9 and inhibited the cell growth of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Ying , Huang Qingli , Li Faping
Published: December 2019

Increasing evidence has suggested that microRNAs (miRNAs) play critical roles in the initiation and development of cancers. Here, we found that miR-140-5p was significantly downregulated in both laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) tissues and cell lines. Decreased expression of miR-140-5p was significantly associated with the metastasis of LSCC. Overexpression of miR-140-5p inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of LSCC cells. Mechanistically, the fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) was identified as the target of miR-140-5p. miR-140-5p bound the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of FGF9 and suppressed the expression of FGF9 in LSCC cells. Additionally, the level of FGF9 was upregulated in LSCC tissues and negatively correlated with the expression of miR-140-5p. Restoration of FGF9 attenuated the suppressive role of miR-140-5p in regulating the growth of LSCC cells. Collectively, these results indicated that the tumor suppressive function of miR-140-5p in LSCC was partially exercised by modulating the expression of FGF9.
An-type surface singularity and nondisplaceable Lagrangian tori
Authors: Sun Yuhan
Published: December 2019

We prove the existence of a one-parameter family of nondisplaceable Lagrangian tori near a linear chain of Lagrangian 2-spheres in a symplectic 4-manifold. When the symplectic structure is rational, we prove that the deformed Floer cohomology groups of these tori are nontrivial. The proof uses the idea of toric degeneration to analyze the full potential functions with bulk deformations of these tori.
Electrospun TiO2 embedded nanofibers for photocatalytic applications
Authors: Wu Junyao , Pernin Alexandre , Wang Yixuan , Wang Han , Yao Jun , Gao Wei
Published: December 2019

The development of photocatalysts with low cost, high reactivity and easy recovery provides great potentials for environmental remediation. In this study, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers containing titanium dioxide ([Formula: see text]) nanoparticles were successfully fabricated using a facile electrospinning technique. The effects of [Formula: see text] content, PAN concentration and thermal treatment on the adsorption and photocatalysis properties of [Formula: see text] nanofibers have been investigated. The results indicate that the embedded [Formula: see text] nanofibers possess the property to effectively decompose rhodamine B (RhB) under simulated sunlight irradiation. The enhanced photocatalytic activity can be attributed to the loading of [Formula: see text] nanoparticles and the property of polymer matrix.
Effect of process parameters on the microstructure evolution of laser surface quenched Ni-Al bronze
Authors: Qin Zhenbo , Xia Da-Hai , Deng Yida , Hu Wenbin , Wu Zhong
Published: December 2019

Laser surface quenching technology was used to modify the surface microstructure of as-cast Ni-Al bronze (NAB). The modified microstructure was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the effect of laser process parameters on microstructure evolution was investigated. It was found that a fine-grained zone with fully [Formula: see text] phase microstructure formed on the surface of NAB. The depth of the fine-grained zone increased with the increase of laser power, and surface melting occurred when the power reached a threshold value. Laser scanning at a low rate caused the coarsening of grain boundary, while too high rate led to incomplete quenching. Spot overlap ratio determined the microstructure of the superimposed area, and unsuitable ratio would cause bulky [Formula: see text] precipitation at the grain boundary or incomplete transformation from [Formula: see text] phase to [Formula: see text] phase.
Thermomechanical powder processing of beta-eutectoid bearing near-alpha Ti alloys
Authors: Alshammari Yousef , Yang Fei , Bolzoni Leandro
Published: December 2019

This work focuses on developing near-alpha Ti alloys via the selective addition of small concentrations of low-cost eutectoid [Formula: see text]-stabilizers like Cu and Mn. In particular, these newly designed near-alpha Ti alloys are manufactured via the cheapest powder metallurgy route of cold pressing plus sintering. Moreover, thermomechanical deformation of the sintered alloys via hot forging in the [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] field was also investigated aiming to enhance the mechanical properties through reduction of the residual porosity and microstructural control. It is found that the initial addition of a small amount of eutectoid [Formula: see text]-stabilizers leads to higher tensile properties with comprision to pure Ti produced by powder metallurgy, and this is due to the formation of a coarse lamellar structure due to the presence of [Formula: see text]-stabilizers. Further enhancement of the strength is achieved by means of hot thermomechanical processing thanks to sealing of the residual pores, texturing, and refinement of the microstructural features.
Fluctuation diamagnetic susceptibility in type-II superconductors under magnetic field
Authors: Tuyen Le Thi Cam , Tinh Bui Duc , Thu Le Minh , Hoc Nguyen Quang , Man Nguyen Khac
Published: December 2019

Strong fluctuation effects were found in both low- and high-field regimes by recent measurements of magnetization on [Formula: see text] (LCCO) single crystals. The low-field fluctuation diamagnetic susceptibility data could not be fitted by simple Gaussian fluctuation theory using the lowest Landau level (LLL) approximation because of the slightly nonlinear behavior around the mean-field transition temperature [Formula: see text]. Self-consistent calculation of fluctuation diamagnetic susceptibility in high-temperature superconductors, based on the Ginzburg–Landau (GL) two-dimensional model and including all Landau levels, is presented. Our results are valid for arbitrary values of the magnetic field not too close to [Formula: see text]. The results agree well with the experimental data in a wide region around [Formula: see text], including both below and above [Formula: see text].
The Littlewood–Paley decomposition for periodic functions and applications to the Boussinesq equations
Authors: Dai Yichen , Hu Weiwei , Wu Jiahong , Xiao Bei
Published: December 2019

The Littlewood–Paley decomposition for functions defined on the whole space [Formula: see text] and related Besov space techniques have become indispensable tools in the study of many partial differential equations (PDEs) with [Formula: see text] as the spatial domain. This paper intends to develop parallel tools for the periodic domain [Formula: see text]. Taking advantage of the boundedness and convergence theory on the square-cutoff Fourier partial sum, we define the Littlewood–Paley decomposition for periodic functions via the square cutoff. We remark that the Littlewood–Paley projections defined via the circular cutoff in [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] in the literature do not behave well on the Lebesgue space [Formula: see text] except for [Formula: see text]. We develop a complete set of tools associated with this decomposition, which would be very useful in the study of PDEs defined on [Formula: see text]. As an application of the tools developed here, we study the periodic weak solutions of the [Formula: see text]-dimensional Boussinesq equations with the fractional dissipation [Formula: see text] and without thermal diffusion. We obtain two main results. The first assesses the global existence of [Formula: see text]-weak solutions for any [Formula: see text] and the existence and uniqueness of the [Formula: see text]-weak solutions when [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. The second establishes the zero thermal diffusion limit with an explicit convergence rate.
An existence result for a class of electrothermal drift-diffusion models with Gauss–Fermi statistics for organic semiconductors
Authors: Glitzky Annegret , Liero Matthias , Nika Grigor
Published: December 2019

This work is concerned with the analysis of a drift-diffusion model for the electrothermal behavior of organic semiconductor devices. A “generalized Van Roosbroeck” system coupled to the heat equation is employed, where the former consists of continuity equations for electrons and holes and a Poisson equation for the electrostatic potential, and the latter features source terms containing Joule heat contributions and recombination heat. Special features of organic semiconductors like Gauss–Fermi statistics and mobility functions depending on the electric field strength are taken into account. We prove the existence of solutions for the stationary problem by an iteration scheme and Schauder’s fixed point theorem. The underlying solution concept is related to weak solutions of the Van Roosbroeck system and entropy solutions of the heat equation. Additionally, for data compatible with thermodynamic equilibrium, the uniqueness of the solution is verified. It was recently shown that self-heating significantly influences the electronic properties of organic semiconductor devices. Therefore, modeling the coupled electric and thermal responses of organic semiconductors is essential for predicting the effects of temperature on the overall behavior of the device. This work puts the electrothermal drift-diffusion model for organic semiconductors on a sound analytical basis.
Human-Inspired Representation of Object-Specific Grasps for Anthropomorphic Hands
Authors: Starke Julia , Eichmann Christian , Ottenhaus Simon , Asfour Tamim
Published: December 2019

The human hand is a complex, highly-articulated system, which has been the source of inspiration in designing humanoid robotic and prosthetic hands. Understanding the functionality of the human hand is crucial for the design, efficient control and transfer of human versatility and dexterity to such anthropomorphic robotic hands. Although research in this area has made significant advances, the synthesis of grasp configurations, based on observed human grasping data, is still an unsolved and challenging task. In this work we derive a novel, constrained autoencoder model, that encodes human grasping data in a compact representation. This representation encodes both the grasp type in a three-dimensional latent space and the object size as an explicit parameter constraint allowing the direct synthesis of object-specific grasps. We train the model on 2250 grasps generated by 15 subjects using 35 diverse objects from the KIT and YCB object sets. In the evaluation we show that the synthesized grasp configurations are human-like and have a high probability of success under pose uncertainty.
Innovating with Strangers; Managing Knowledge Barriers Across Distances in Cross-Industry Innovation
Authors: Bø Lyng Hilda , Brun Eric Christian
Published: December 2019

We explore the types of knowledge barriers that are encountered at organizational level in cross-industry innovation, what influences them and how they can be overcome. Eleven cross-industry projects were qualitatively analyzed at the individual level of activity. Innovation collaboration occurred at three levels; intra-organizational, inter-organizational, and inter-institutional. Each level exhibited added relational distances as well as semantic and pragmatic barriers, of which the latter type was the most challenging. Effort necessary to overcome knowledge barriers accumulated at each level. Knowledge barriers were increased by legitimacy differences and communicational deficiencies, and lowered by reduction of interdependencies, use of knowledge brokers, and previous cross-industry experience.
Enhanced Magnetic and DC Electrical Properties of Sm-Doped Bi2Fe4O9Nanoplates Synthesized by Sol–Gel Method
Authors: Ibrahim E. M. M. , Farghal G. , Khalaf Mai M. , El-Lateef Hany M. Abd
Published: December 2019

In this work, Bi[Formula: see text]SmxFe4O9([Formula: see text], 0.02, 0.06, 0.08, 0.1) nanoplates with an average thickness of 62–125[Formula: see text]nm were synthesized using a sol–gel method. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The magnetic measurements show that the nanoplates have weak ferromagnetic ordering. The saturation magnetization of the nanoplates increases as the Sm content increases. The DC electric transport properties were studied by measuring the temperature dependence of the resistivity in the temperature range 300–680[Formula: see text]K. The materials show typical semiconductor features, and the conduction mechanisms are governed by electron and small polaron hopping in the low and high temperature measurement ranges, respectively. The Sm doping results in a significant enhancement in the electrical conductivity of the Bi2Fe4O9nanoplates.
The Fluidity of Racial Classifications
Authors: Davenport Lauren
Published: December 2019

In this article, I review the social science literature on racial fluidity, the idea that race is flexible and impermanent. I trace the ongoing evolution of racial classifications and boundaries in the United States and Latin America, two regions that share a history of European colonization, slavery, and high levels of race mixing but that have espoused very different racial ideologies. Traditionally, for many groups in the United States, race was seen as unchangeable and determined by ancestry; in contrast, parts of Latin America have lacked strict classification rules and embraced race mixing. However, recent research has shown that race in the United States can change across time and context, particularly for populations socially defined as more ambiguous, while some Latin American racial boundaries are becoming more stringent. I argue that the fluidity of race has redefined our understanding of racial identities, and propose several directions for future political science scholarship that bridges disciplines and methodological approaches.
Cyclophosphamide-induced cystitis results in NLRP3-mediated inflammation in the hippocampus and symptoms of depression in rats
Authors: Hirshman Nathan A. , Hughes Francis M. , Jin Huixia , Harrison William T. , White Simon W. , Doan Isabelle , Harper Shelby N. , Leidig Patrick D. , Purves J. Todd
Published: December 2019

Recent breakthroughs demonstrate that peripheral diseases can trigger inflammation in the brain, causing psychosocial maladies, including depression. While few direct studies have been made, anecdotal reports associate urological disorders with mental dysfunction. Thus, we investigated if insults targeted at the bladder might elicit behavioral alterations. Moreover, the mechanism of neuroinflammation elicited by other peripheral diseases involves the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, which is present in microglia in the brain and cleaves and activates proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β. Thus, we further explored the importance of NLRP3 in behavioral and neuroinflammatory changes. Here, we used the well-studied cyclophosphamide (CP)-treated rat model. Importantly, CP and its metabolites do not cross the blood-brain barrier or trigger inflammation in the gut, so that any neuroinflammation is likely secondary to bladder injury. We found that CP triggered an increase in inflammasome activity (caspase-1 activity) in the hippocampus but not in the pons. Evans blue extravasation demonstrated breakdown of the blood-brain barrier in the hippocampal region and activated microglia were present in the fascia dentata. Both changes were dependent on NLRP3 activation and prevented with 2-mercaptoethane sulfonate sodium (Mesna), which masks the effects of the CP metabolite acrolein in the urine. Finally, CP-treated rats displayed depressive symptoms that were prevented by NLRP3 inhibition or treatment with Mesna or an antidepressant. Thus, we conclude that CP-induced cystitis causes NLRP3-dependent hippocampal inflammation leading to depression symptoms in rats. This study proposes the first-ever causative explanation of the previously anecdotal link between benign bladder disorders and mood disorders.
Transcriptional sex and regional differences in paired human atrial and ventricular cardiac biopsies collected in vivo
Authors: Synnergren Jane , Vukusic Kristina , Dönnes Pierre , Jonsson Marianne , Lindahl Anders , Dellgren Göran , Jeppsson Anders , Asp Julia
Published: December 2019

Transcriptional studies of the human heart provide insight into physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms, essential for understanding the fundamental mechanisms of normal cardiac function and how they are altered by disease. To improve the understanding of why men and women may respond differently to the same therapeutic treatment it is crucial to learn more about sex-specific transcriptional differences. In this study the transcriptome of right atrium and left ventricle was compared across sex and regional location. Paired biopsies from five male and five female patients undergoing aortic valve replacement or coronary artery bypass grafting were included. Gene expression analysis identified 620 differentially expressed transcripts in atrial and ventricular tissue in men and 471 differentially expressed transcripts in women. In total 339 of these transcripts overlapped across sex but notably, 281 were unique in the male tissue and 162 in the female tissue, displaying marked sex differences in the transcriptional machinery. The transcriptional activity was significantly higher in atrias than in ventricles as 70% of the differentially expressed genes were upregulated in the atrial tissue. Furthermore, pathway- and functional annotation analyses performed on the differentially expressed genes showed enrichment for a more heterogeneous composition of biological processes in atrial compared with the ventricular tissue, and a dominance of differentially expressed genes associated with infection disease was observed. The results reported here provide increased insights about transcriptional differences between the cardiac atrium and ventricle but also reveal transcriptional differences in the human heart that can be attributed to sex.
Impact of short- and long-term electrically induced muscle exercise on gene signaling pathways, gene expression, and PGC1a methylation in men with spinal cord injury
Authors: Petrie Michael A. , Sharma Arpit , Taylor Eric B. , Suneja Manish , Shields Richard K.
Published: December 2019

Exercise attenuates the development of chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Gene signaling pathway analysis offers an opportunity to discover if electrically induced muscle exercise regulates key pathways among people living with spinal cord injury (SCI). We examined short-term and long-term durations of electrically induced skeletal muscle exercise on complex gene signaling pathways, specific gene regulation, and epigenetic tagging of PGC1a, a major transcription factor in skeletal muscle of men with SCI. After short- or long-term electrically induced exercise training, participants underwent biopsies of the trained and untrained muscles. RNA was hybridized to an exon microarray and analyzed by a gene set enrichment analysis. We discovered that long-term exercise training regulated the Reactome gene sets for metabolism (38 gene sets), cell cycle (36 gene sets), disease (27 gene sets), gene expression and transcription (22 gene sets), organelle biogenesis (4 gene sets), cellular response to stimuli (8 gene sets), immune system (8 gene sets), vesicle-mediated transport (4 gene sets), and transport of small molecules (3 gene sets). Specific gene expression included: oxidative catabolism of glucose including PDHB ( P < 0.001), PDHX ( P < 0.001), MPC1 ( P < 0.009), and MPC2 ( P < 0.007); Oxidative phosphorylation genes including SDHA ( P < 0.006), SDHB ( P < 0.001), NDUFB1 ( P < 0.002), NDUFA2 ( P < 0.001); transcription genes including PGC1α ( P < 0.030) and PRKAB2 ( P < 0.011); hypertrophy gene MSTN ( P < 0.001); and the myokine generating FNDC5 gene ( P < 0.008). Long-term electrically induced exercise demethylated the major transcription factor PGC1a. Taken together, these findings support that long-term electrically induced muscle activity regulates key pathways associated with muscle health and systemic metabolism.
Genotypic divergence in mouse oocyte transcriptomes: possible pathways to hybrid vigor impacting fertility and embryogenesis
Authors: Severance Ashley L. , Midic Uros , Latham Keith E.
Published: December 2019

What causes hybrid vigor phenotypes in mammalian oocytes and preimplantation embryos? Answering this question should provide new insight into determinants of oocyte and embryo quality and infertility. Hybrid vigor could arise through a variety of mechanisms, many of which must operate through posttranscriptional mechanisms affecting oocyte mRNA accumulation, stability, translation, and degradation. The differential regulation of such mRNAs may impact essential pathways and functions within the oocyte. We conducted in-depth transcriptome comparisons of immature and mature oocytes of C57BL/6J and DBA/2J inbred strains and C57BL/6J × DBA/2J F1 (BDF1) hybrid oocytes with RNA sequencing, combined with novel computational methods of analysis. We observed extensive differences in mRNA expression and regulation between parental inbred strains and between inbred and hybrid genotypes, including mRNAs encoding proposed markers of oocyte quality. Unique BDF1 oocyte characteristics arise through a combination of additive dominance and incomplete dominance features in the transcriptome, with a lesser degree of transgressive mRNA expression. Special features of the BDF1 transcriptome most prominently relate to histone expression, mitochondrial function, and oxidative phosphorylation. The study reveals the major underlying mechanisms that contribute to superior properties of hybrid oocytes in a mouse model.
Eco-Friendly, Green Packaging Materials from Akaganeite and Hematite Nanoparticle-Reinforced Chitosan Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Chandrakumara G. T. D. , Dissanayake D. M. S. N. , Mantilaka M. M. M. G. P. G. , De Silva R. T. , Pitawala H. M. T. G. A. , de Silva K. M. Nalin
Published: December 2019

In this study, chitosan nanocomposite thin films were successfully fabricated by incorporating hematite nanoparticles (HNPs) and akaganeite nanoparticles (ANPs) as reinforcing fillers using the solution casting method. HNPs and ANPs were synthesized via a urea-assisted synthesis route using naturally occurring ferruginous laterites. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images indicated the spherical to subhexagonal morphology of the HNPs and rice-like morphology of the ANPs. X-ray diffractograms indicate the crystalline structure of iron oxides as hematite and akaganeite. Tensile tests were carried out to evaluate the mechanical properties of the nanocomposite films where maximum tensile stress of the chitosan/HNP composites was improved as high as 35.7% while chitosan/ANP composites indicated 43.5%. Thermal decomposition curves obtained by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicate that the thermal stability of the nanocomposites has improved remarkably compared to neat chitosan films. Furthermore, these nanocomposites exhibited excellent UV barrier properties as identified by UV-visible spectrometry. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic results are evident in the presence of Fe-O bond in the wavenumber around 480-500 cm-1, and the result also indicated that the nanofillers interact with the chitosan matrix via hydrogen bonding, which enhanced the physical properties of the nanocomposites. Incorporation of iron oxide nanoparticle varieties into chitosan has led to improvements of certain physical and chemical properties, which make chitosan a promising material for packaging applications.
A Rare Case of Gorlin-Goltz Syndrome in Children
Authors: Boos Lima Fernanda Brasil Daura Jorge , Viana Ana Paula Cota , Lima Luciano Henrique Ferreira , Ribeiro Bruna Campos , Dutra Carlos Eduardo Assis , Stabile Glaykon Alex Vitti , Junior Sergio Monteiro Lima
Published: December 2019

The Gorlin-Goltz syndrome, nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome, or basal cell nevus syndrome is an autosomal dominant condition disorder with high variability expression. It presents a series of relevant clinical manifestations that suggest its diagnosis in cutaneous, bone, dental, soft tissue, nervous, and ocular system disorders. This condition requires a great interaction of several specialists to improve the patient’s life. In this case, we presented a 9-year-old male patient referred to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery reporting failure in the normal chronology of dental eruption. After evaluation, it was observed that the patient had 13 typical characteristics of the syndrome, including keratocysts, bifid ribs, palmoplantar pits, and 10 other minor characteristics. In conclusion, the expression of so many features of Gorlin-Goltz syndrome is rare in infants, and early diagnosis is important to decrease morbidity and mortality associated with basal cell carcinomas.
Energy Evolution and Acoustic Emission Characteristics of Sandstone Specimens under Unloading Confining Pressure
Authors: Qin Tao , Duan Yanwei , Sun Hongru , Liu Honglei , Wang Lei
Published: December 2019

The acoustic emission characteristics of rock specimens under different initial unloading confining pressures were tested to obtain the damage and rupture characteristics of the sandstone unloading confining pressure path. The CT scan and three‐dimensional reconstruction of the fractured rock specimens were carried out to study the differences of energy evolution and acoustic emission characteristics during the failure of sandstone under different initial unloading pressures. The results show that the unloading confining pressure has a significant influence on the deformation and failure of the rock. There is a significant yielding platform for the circumferential strain and the bulk strain at the peak of the unloading pressure. The larger the initial unloading pressure is, the greater the axial absorption strain energy, the dissipative energy, and the elastic strain energy are at the peak point. After the stress peak point, the elastic strain can be quickly converted into the dissipative energy for rock damage. The elastic energy released from the moment of rock failure under high confining pressure is more concentrated. The acoustic emission ringing and b value characteristic parameters of the rock have a good correlation with the internal energy evolution of the rock, which better reflects the progressive damage of the rock under low stress and the sudden failure of high‐stress unloading.
Clinicopathological Implications of Proteinuria after Long-Term Isolated Hematuria due to Thin Basement Membrane Nephropathy and Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Togashi Ryo , Nemoto Yoshikazu , Waki Kaito , Nagura Michito , Arai Shigeyuki , Tamura Yoshifuru , Oshima Yasutoshi , Kondo Fukuo , Ohashi Ryuji , Uchida Shunya , Shibata Shigeru , Fujigaki Yoshihide
Published: December 2019

A 45-year-old obese man presented with persistent hematuria for 21 years. At the age of 37, he developed hypertension and proteinuria which later increased up to 1.6 g/g creatinine. Kidney biopsy revealed thin basement membrane nephropathy (TBMN) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), which explained his urinary abnormalities. Although a subgroup of TBMN can be complicated by FSGS, his FSGS was associated with obesity because of its histological features. Reduction of body weight and increasing a dose of angiotensin-receptor blocker could transiently reduce the amount of proteinuria. Clinicopathological implications of proteinuria after long-term hematuria by TBMN and FSGS were further discussed.
Role of SOCS2 in the Regulation of Immune Response and Development of the Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Cramer Allysson , de Lima Oliveira Bruno Cabral , Leite Paulo Gaio , Rodrigues David Henrique , Brant Fatima , Esper Lisia , Pimentel Pollyana Maria Oliveira , Rezende Rafael Machado , Rachid Milene Alvarenga , Teixeira Antonio Lucio , Faria Ana Maria Caetano , Teixeira Mauro Martins , Machado Fabiana Simão
Published: December 2019

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE) is the most widely used animal model for the study of MS. The Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling (SOCS) 2 protein plays a critical role in regulating the immune responses. The role of SOCS2 during EAE has not been explored. EAE was induced in WT and SOCS2-/- mice using myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG35-55) peptide. Brain and spinal cord were examined during the peak (day 14) and recovery phase (day 28) of the disease. SOCS2 was upregulated in the brain of WT mice at the peak and recovery phase of EAE. The development of the acute phase was slower in onset in SOCS2-/- mice and was associated with reduced number of Th1 (CD3+CD4+IFN-γ+) cells in the spinal cord and brain. However, while in WT mice, maximal clinical EAE score was followed by a progressive recovery; the SOCS2-/- mice were unable to recover from locomotor impairment that occurred during the acute phase. There was a prolonged inflammatory response (increased Th1 and decreased Th2 and T regulatory cells) in the late phase of EAE in the CNS of SOCS2-/- mice. Transplantation of bone marrow cells from SOCS2-/- into irradiated WT mice resulted in higher lethality at the early phase of EAE. Altogether, these results suggest that SOCS2 plays a dual role in the immune response during EAE. It is necessary for damage during the acute phase damage but plays a beneficial role in the recovery stage of the disease.
Tissue Stiffness is Not Related to Pain Experience: An Individually Controlled Study in Patients with Chronic Neck and Back Pain
Authors: Lederer Ann-Kathrin , Maly Christian , Weinert Tomas , Huber Roman
Published: December 2019

Background. Massage therapies such as cupping are often applied in patients with chronic neck and back pain with the assumption that they can reduce increased tissue stiffness and, therefore, improve pain. The aim of this study was to clarify whether tissue stiffness is related to pain experience in patients with chronic (>3 months) back and neck pain and whether it can be altered by a cupping massage. Methods. The tissue stiffness of the point of subjectively felt maximum pain intensity of 40 patients with neck (n = 20) or lower back pain (n = 20) was measured by a myometer. Exact contralateral side served as an individual control. Side of higher stiffness was then treated with a cupping massage. 5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes as well as 24 hours after treatment, tissue stiffness was measured again. Patients rated their pain on a standardized pain questionnaire (neck pain disability score (NDI) or Oswestry disability index (ODI), respectively) before and 24 hours after treatment. Results. Compared to the contralateral control side, the more painful side did not exhibit an increased stiffness of myofascial tissue before treatment (p=0.827). The tissue stiffness and the side difference between treated and nontreated control sides decreased significantly after cupping (p=0.002 and p=0.001, respectively) but returned to baseline after 24 hours. NDI and ODI scores significantly decreased 24 hours after cupping (NDI: p=0.012, ODI: p=0.002). Conclusion. Tissue stiffness might not be related to pain experience in patients with chronic neck and lower back pain. Trial registration: German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS00011281).
Rotational Restraint to Purlins Provided by Standing Seam Roof Systems
Authors: Yang Qin , Luan Wei , Yu Shaole , Chen Junjie
Published: December 2019

The finite element model used for analyzing the rotational restraint rigidity of standing seam roof systems was developed. The influences of different factors on the rotational restraint rigidity provided by two types of standing seam roof systems were studied. The variables include local deformation of standing seam roof panels, panel thickness, clip tab thickness, and the relative sliding of clip tab and clip base. The restraint mechanism of standing seam roof systems to the purlins was studied. It is shown that the rotational restraint rigidity provided by the two types of researching standing seam roof systems mainly depends on the slide tab thickness and the roof panel thickness. Finally, formulae for calculating rotational restraint rigidity of the LSIII and SS360 standing seam roof systems were also proposed based on parametric analysis results.
Novel Technique of Pneumatic Posterior Capsulorhexis for Treatment and Prevention of Posterior Capsular Opacification
Authors: Eid Ahmed M. , Abd-Elhamid Mehany Elwan Shaaban , Sabry Ahmed M. , Moharram Hossam M. , Bakhsh Ashraf M.
Published: December 2019

Purpose. To evaluate a new technique of posterior capsulorhexis using air support to treat primary posterior capsular opacification (PCO) during cataract extraction surgery or to prevent postoperative PCO. Setting. (1) Ophthalmology department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, 61519, El-Minia, Egypt. (2) Security Forces Hospital, Ophthalmology Department, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Design. Prospective, randomized, consecutive case comparative non controlled study. Methods. One hundred eyes of 100 patients with a mean age of 63.3 years with dense cataract were enrolled in the study. Fifty of them (group (1)) were with primary PCO (discovered during the operations) and fifty (group (2)) with clear posterior capsule. All of the patients underwent phacoemulsification and posterior capsulorhexis using the air to support the posterior capsule. Then, IOL implantations were done between the anterior and posterior capsular rims. Postoperatively, each patient was evaluated for the following: visual acuity (UCVA and BCVA), manifest refractive spherical equivalent (MRSE), intraocular pressure, intraocular lens (IOL) stability, visual axis opacification, and posterior segment complications as retinal breaks, retinal detachment, or cystoid macular edema (CME). Results. There were no significant differences in UCVA, BCVA, and MRSE. All cases had a clear visual axis, with stable IOL and normal IOP during the follow-up period without posterior segment complications. The VA improved significantly throughout the follow-up periods in both groups without significant clinical difference. Conclusion. Pneumatic posterior capsulorhexis is a new effective technique for the treatment of primary PCO in dense cataract and for prevention of postoperative PCO with the good visual outcomes and minimal complications. This trial is registered with NCT04007965.
The Lagrangean Relaxation for the Flow Shop Scheduling Problem with Precedence Constraints, Release Dates and Delivery Times
Authors: Fabri Marcelus , Ramalhinho Helena , de Souza Mauricio C. , Ravetti Martin G.
Published: December 2019

This work aims to present a methodology to support a company in the automotive business on scheduling the jobs on its final processes. These processes are: (i) checking the final product and (ii) loading the dispatch trucks. These activities are usually found in the outbound area of any manufacturing company. The problem faced is defined as the flow shop problem with precedence constraints, release dates, and delivery times. The major objective is to minimize the latest date a client receives its products. We present a time-indexed integer mathematical model to compute feasible solutions for the presented problem. Moreover, we take advantage of the Lagrangean Relaxation procedure to compute valid lower and upper bounds. The experiments were held based on the company’s premises. As a conclusion, the results showed that the methodology proposed was able to compute feasible solutions for all the instances tested. Also, the Lagrangean Relaxation approach was able to calculate better bounds in a shorter computational time than the Mathematical problem for the more complicated instances.
The Passengers’ Comfort Improvement by Sitting Activity and Posture Analysis in Civil Aircraft Cabin
Authors: Liu Jing , Yu Suihuai , Chu Jianjie
Published: December 2019

Comfort is becoming an important issue that airlines use to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Activity and posture, as an integrating external manifestation when passengers interact with the complex cabin system, could be used as an effective way to study passenger comfort. This study aims to analyze the passengers’ comfort perception based on activity and posture analysis performed by passengers on the flight. By recording and reconstructing the activities performed by passengers in a 2‐hour simulated flight, the typical activities and the corresponding postures were identified through the video analysis software system MVTA. The passengers remained the greater part of the time performing the activity of sleeping and resting (34.3%), followed by using small electrical devices (32.7%) and reading (16.1%). The main postures in these activities were encoded and displayed in the elliptic structural diagram based on the variations in head, back, arms, and legs. The difficulties and constraints resulted from the seat and cabin were summarized by a questionnaire. Based on the analysis results, the suggestions about seat design, activity guidance, and arrangement were offered from the perspective of supportability, adjustability, affordance, and aesthetics, which would be applied in improving the passengers’ comfort and innovations in cabin and seat.
Chloride Penetration in Coastal Concrete Structures: Field Investigation and Model Development
Authors: Zhuo Weidong , Yan Quanzhe , Yang Zhengxian , Lin Shaohong , Lin Kaiqi , He Fuqiang
Published: December 2019

Field measurements of 42 in-service reinforced concrete bridges in coastal environments of Southeast China, covering a wide range of service year, span length, and concrete mixture, were carried out to investigate the chloride penetration. 323 sets of chloride measurement data were collected in total and then analysed to optimize the parameters involved in the common chloride diffusion model derived based on Fick’s second law. A modified chloride diffusion model was then proposed, taking into consideration a range of influencing factors including ambient temperature, relative humidity, stress state, carbon dioxide, chloride binding, and ageing. Verification of the modified model with field measurement data was performed. The sensitivity of the chloride diffusion to variations of each parameter was discussed in detail eventually.
Structural Performance of Translucent Concrete Façade Panels
Authors: Tuaum Awetehagn , Shitote Stanley , Oyawa Walter , Biedebrhan Medhanye
Published: December 2019

Energy conservation is an emerging global issue for sustainable infrastructure development. The building sector energy demand accounts for approximately 34% of the world’s energy demand, and artificial lighting consumes around 19% of the total delivered electricity globally. Developing a new kind of building material that can reduce the demand for artificial lighting energy is vital. This research attempts to address such issues through the development of translucent concrete façade using locally available materials that can be used as energy‐saving building material. Bulk density, compressive strength, and flexural strength of translucent concrete containing 2%, 4%, and 6% volume ratios of plastic optical fibers (POF) were studied. Moreover, the flexural toughness of translucent concrete façade panels integrating 6% volume ratio of POF was also investigated. The experimental results showed that using up to 6% volume ratio of plastic optical fibers had no adverse effect on the bulk density of translucent concrete. Translucent concrete specimens exhibited relatively lower compressive and flexural strengths compared to the reference concrete. However, it was evidently observed that the compressive strength of translucent concrete increased with increasing the volume ratio of POF. The flexural strength of translucent concrete was observed to decline with increase in the volume ratio of POF. Results demonstrated that translucent concrete panels have better flexural toughness, ductility, and energy absorption capacity than the reference concrete panel. The energy‐saving, environmental conservation, and aesthetic and structural performance improvements stemming from the application of translucent concrete façade panel as architectural wall would foster the development of green and resilient buildings as well as contribute to sustainable construction.
Benefit of N-Acetylcysteine in Postoperative Hepatic Dysfunction: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Bauerlein Deanna K. , Akbar Hashem N. , von Rosenvinge Erik C. , Loughry Nora D. , John Preeti R.
Published: December 2019

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is reported to have multiple clinical applications in addition to being the specific antidote for acetaminophen toxicity. NAC stimulates glutathione biosynthesis, promotes detoxification, and acts directly as a scavenger of free radicals. It is a powerful antioxidant and a potential treatment option for diseases characterized by the generation of free oxygen radicals. We present a case of postoperative hepatic dysfunction of multifactorial etiology in a patient with therapeutic acetaminophen levels, where hepatic function improved considerably following administration of intravenous NAC. This case suggests that NAC should be considered for treatment of acute liver dysfunction in the postoperative setting, even in the absence of elevated acetaminophen levels.