bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Note on the Adaptive LASSO for Zero-Inflated Poisson Regression
Authors: Banerjee Prithish , Garai Broti , Mallick Himel , Chowdhury Shrabanti , Chatterjee Saptarshi
Published: December 2018

We consider the problem of modelling count data with excess zeros using Zero-Inflated Poisson (ZIP) regression. Recently, various regularization methods have been developed for variable selection in ZIP models. Among these, EM LASSO is a popular method for simultaneous variable selection and parameter estimation. However, EM LASSO suffers from estimation inefficiency and selection inconsistency. To remedy these problems, we propose a set of EM adaptive LASSO methods using a variety of data-adaptive weights. We show theoretically that the new methods are able to identify the true model consistently, and the resulting estimators can be as efficient as oracle. The methods are further evaluated through extensive synthetic experiments and applied to a German health care demand dataset.
A Novel Scoring System Based on the Level of HDL-C for Predicting the Prognosis of t-DLBCL Patients: A Single Retrospective Study
Authors: Xu Jiadai , Wei Zheng , Zhang Yian , Chen Chen , Li Jing , Liu Peng
Published: December 2018

The t-DLBCL patients are generally regarded to experience a poor prognosis. However, there is little consensus to guide optimal management strategies for such patients group. The present study aimed to explore the incidence of transformation and the prognosis factors for t-DLBCL patients, thereby providing insights for clinical choices. We retrospectively investigated 46 patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCL) associated with an indolent small B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (iNHL) from January 2007 to June 2017 in our department. In multivariate analysis, bone marrow (BM) involvement and low level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were considered as two negatively and independently prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) (BM: p=0.007, HR 7.475, 95%CI: 1.744-32.028; HDL-C: p=0.032, HR10.037, 95%CI: 1.226-82.162). International Prognostic Index (IPI) risk group was identified as a single independent prognostic factor of progression-free survival (PFS) (p=0.048, HR 2.895, 95%CI: 1.010-8.297). A novel prognostic scoring system named BH model (BH stands for the intertwined initials of BM situation and the level of HDL-C) was further developed to stratify these patients into two risk groups, which performed well. Combining the BH scoring model and IPI scoring system could better predict the outcomes of these patients.
Mechanical Outcomes, Microleakage, and Marginal Accuracy at the Implant-Abutment Interface of Original versus Nonoriginal Implant Abutments: A Systematic Review of In Vitro Studies
Authors: Tallarico Marco , Fiorellini Joseph , Nakajima Yasushi , Omori Yuki , Takahisa Iida , Canullo Luigi
Published: December 2018

Purpose. Instead of original abutments, compatible abutments are often selected for financial reasons. The present study aimed to evaluate mechanical outcomes, microleakage, and marginal accuracy at the implant-abutment interface of original versus nonoriginal implant abutments. Study Selection. Search strategy encompassed literature from 1967 up to March 2017 to identify relevant studies meeting the inclusion criteria. The following electronic databases were consulted: PubMed database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, Embase (Excerpta Medica dataBASE), and the Grey Literature Database (New York Academy of Medicine Grey Literature Report). Quality assessment of the full-text articles selected was performed. Abutments were classified in original (produced by the same implant manufacturer), nonoriginal certified (produced by a third-party milling center, certified by implant companies), and nonoriginal compatible (produced by a third-party milling center for similar connections). Results. A total of 16 articles fulfilled inclusion criteria and quality assessment and were selected for the qualitative analysis. All of the included studies were in vitro research with high or moderate risk of bias and reported data from 653 implant abutments. Original and nonoriginal certified abutments showed better results in terms of mechanical outcomes, microleakage, and marginal accuracy compared to nonoriginal compatible abutments. Conclusions. Following the clear warnings coming from the present systematic review, clinical suggestions regarding the effect of a nonoriginal abutment can be drawn. However, in vivo, long-term, randomized controlled trials are needed to provide definitive clinical conclusion about the long-term clinical outcomes of original and nonoriginal abutments.
The DKP Oscillator in Spinning Cosmic String Background
Authors: Hosseinpour Mansoureh , Hassanabadi Hassan
Published: December 2018

In this article, we investigate the behaviour of relativistic spin-zero bosons in the space-time generated by a spinning cosmic string. We obtain the generalized beta-matrices in terms of the flat space-time ones and rewrite the covariant form of Duffin-Kemmer-Petiau (DKP) equation in spinning cosmic string space-time. We find the solution of DKP oscillator and determine the energy levels. We also discuss the influence of the topology of the cosmic string on the energy levels and the DKP spinors.
Review of Hematopathology Consult Cases: A Two-Year Experience in a Tertiary Referral Center in Lebanon
Authors: Sinno Sara A. J. , Chakhachiro Zaher I. , Nassif Samer R.
Published: December 2018

Hematopathology remains a difficult diagnostic field. With the significant ongoing changes in the classification system that happened over the past several decades, the general pathologist faces many challenges when dealing with patients suspected to have lymphoma or leukemia. The authors assessed referred hematopathology cases that were reviewed by specialized hematopathologists. Of 309 cases, major discrepancy was found in 23% of them. The discrepancy ranged from lymphoma reclassification to other major revisions that had significant impact on patient treatment and management. This paper highlights some of the challenges that may face the general practicing pathologist when dealing with suspected hematopoietic neoplasms.
Arsenic Resistance and Biosorption by Isolated Rhizobacteria from the Roots of Ludwigia octovalvis
Authors: Titah Harmin Sulistiyaning , Abdullah Siti Rozaimah Sheikh , Idris Mushrifah , Anuar Nurina , Basri Hassan , Mukhlisin Muhammad , Tangahu Bieby Voijant , Purwanti Ipung Fitri , Kurniawan Setyo Budi
Published: December 2018

Certain rhizobacteria can be applied to remove arsenic in the environment through bioremediation or phytoremediation. This study determines the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of arsenic on identified rhizobacteria that were isolated from the roots of Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven. The arsenic biosorption capability of the was also analyzed. Among the 10 isolated rhizobacteria, five were Gram-positive (Arthrobacter globiformis, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus pumilus, and Staphylococcus lentus), and five were Gram-negative (Enterobacter asburiae, Sphingomonas paucimobilis, Pantoea spp., Rhizobium rhizogenes, and Rhizobium radiobacter). R. radiobacter showed the highest MIC of >1,500 mg/L of arsenic. All the rhizobacteria were capable of absorbing arsenic, and S. paucimobilis showed the highest arsenic biosorption capability (146.4 ± 23.4 mg/g dry cell weight). Kinetic rate analysis showed that B. cereus followed the pore diffusion model (R2 = 0.86), E. asburiae followed the pseudo-first-order kinetic model (R2 = 0.99), and R. rhizogenes followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2 = 0.93). The identified rhizobacteria differ in their mechanism of arsenic biosorption, arsenic biosorption capability, and kinetic models in arsenic biosorption.
Bathing Suit Variant of Autosomal Recessive Congenital Ichthyosis (ARCI) in Two Indian Patients
Authors: Sathishkumar Dharshini , Peter Dincy , Pulimood Susanne , Wiegmann Henning , Valentin Frederic , Thomas Meera , Hennies Hans Christian , Oji Vinzenz
Published: December 2018

Bathing suit ichthyosis (BSI) is a rare variant of autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI) due to transglutaminase-1 gene (TGM1) mutations leading to a temperature sensitive phenotype. It is characterized by dark-grey or brownish scaling restricted to the “bathing suit” areas. We report two Indian girls with bathing suit ichthyosis and mutations in TGM1 (patient 1: homozygous for c.1147G>A; patient 2: compound heterozygous for c.832G>A, c.919C>G).
Effect of Ca/Al Ratio on Stabilization/Solidification of Lead‐Contaminated Soil by Ettringite
Authors: Xiang Lian , Zhu Huamei , Zhou Ruoyun
Published: December 2018

Ettringite is commonly used for the stabilization/solidification for heavy metal‐contaminated soils, and its treatment effect will be influenced by Ca/Al mole ratio. Lead‐contaminated soil samples were solidified using ettringite with different Ca/Al mole ratios. The pH value, unconfined compressive strength of solidified samples, and leaching concentration were investigated to understand the influence of Ca/Al mole ratio on properties of ettringite‐solidified contaminated soils. The microstructural characteristics of solidified contaminated soils were also explored. The results show that lead leaching concentration decreases dramatically with increasing the content of lime and curing time. Lead concentration drops from 49.89 mg/L to 0.19 mg/L when Ca/Al mole ratio increases from 4 : 3 to 10 : 3 at 28 days and from 36.57 mg/L to near 0 mg/L at 90 days. In addition, the unconfined compressive strength of samples drops at first and then increases with the increase of Ca/Al mole ratio. Besides, the pH values of solidified soil and leachate rise with the increase of content of lime. The pH values of solidified soil increase from 9.68 to 11.34, and there is little difference between 28 days and 90 days. However, the pH values of leachate increase from 5.56 to 8.59 at 28 days, and 90‐day pH values increase from 5.65 to 9.44. The results of SEM, XRD, and EDS tests also indicate that Ca/Al mole ratio affects the shape of ettringite, the stabilization/solidification effectiveness of contaminated soil, and the pore of solidified soil. When Ca/Al mole ratio equals to 8 : 3, ettringite content has a substantial increase, and lead leaching concentration is lower than 5 mg/L.
Terrain Matching Localization for Underwater Vehicle Based on Gradient Fitting
Authors: Gao Jiaqi , Peng Dongdong , Zhou Tian , Wang Tianhao , Xu Chao
Published: December 2018

Terrain matching positioning is a promising method to overcome the problem that the inertial navigation error of the underwater vehicle accumulates over time. In the conventional terrain matching method, all measurement points are commonly used for matching and positioning. However, this method fails to be taken into a balanced consideration on both the computation complexity and the positioning accuracy. To reduce the computation and ensure the accuracy at the same time, an improved terrain matching method based on the gradient fitting is proposed in this paper. In the method, the gradient distributions of multiple terrain regions are firstly analyzed. Then, normal distribution is used to fit them, and according to the distribution, points with larger gradient values are selected as matching points. Finally, minimum absolute difference matching is chosen to match for positioning. Simulation results using multibeam sonar show that the improved terrain matching localization method not only reduces the computational complexity but also improves the accuracy of positioning.
Extruded Catalysts with Magnetic Properties for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Silveira Junior Euripedes Garcia , Justo Oselys Rodriguez , Perez Victor Haber , Reyero Inés , Serrano-Lotina Ana , Campos Ramirez Leonardo , dos Santos Dias Dayana F.
Published: December 2018

The aim of this work was to evaluate the performance of different extruded catalysts containing K2CO3 as active phase and adding conveniently γ‐Al2O3 and/or sepiolite and magnetic particles on the biodiesel production from sunflower oil by the ethanolic route. Firstly, the content of the Fe3O4 on the catalyst (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 g Fe3O4/g of K2CO3/γ‐Al2O3), after calcination step, was evaluated to verify the separation facility of the catalysts with magnetic properties from reactional medium, using an external magnetic field, at the end of biodiesel synthesis. After that, three different catalysts were considered for comparative purposes: (a) K2CO3/γ‐Al2O3; (b) K2CO3/γ‐Al2O3/Fe3O4; (c) K2CO3/γ‐Al2O3/Sepiolite/Fe3O4 and subsequently characterized by dynamometry, TGA, SEM, VSM, BET, and XRD to determine their mechanical, structural, magnetic, and textural properties. However, their catalytic activities were determined through biodiesel production that was carried out in a glass volumetric reactor during 4 h, under magnetic stirring with 5% wt. of the catalyst and oil : ethanol molar ratio (1 : 12) at 80°C reaction temperature. The best result, i.e., around 88% of biodiesel conversion, was obtained with catalyst K2CO3/γ‐Al2O3/Sepiolite/Fe3O4 which showed also satisfactory textural and mechanical strength properties comparatively with the other catalytic derivatives. In addition, no agglomeration of the particles was observed during the reaction, and the magnetic property of this catalytic system was satisfactory for adequate separation from reactional medium seeking further reuse. The attained results are attractive for possible implementation at industrial scale and can be considered to mitigate drawbacks which resulting by using of homogeneous catalysts in the conventional processes.
Control of Blood Glucose for Type-1 Diabetes by Using Reinforcement Learning with Feedforward Algorithm
Authors: Ngo Phuong D. , Wei Susan , Holubová Anna , Muzik Jan , Godtliebsen Fred
Published: December 2018

Background. Type-1 diabetes is a condition caused by the lack of insulin hormone, which leads to an excessive increase in blood glucose level. The glucose kinetics process is difficult to control due to its complex and nonlinear nature and with state variables that are difficult to measure. Methods. This paper proposes a method for automatically calculating the basal and bolus insulin doses for patients with type-1 diabetes using reinforcement learning with feedforward controller. The algorithm is designed to keep the blood glucose stable and directly compensate for the external events such as food intake. Its performance was assessed using simulation on a blood glucose model. The usage of the Kalman filter with the controller was demonstrated to estimate unmeasurable state variables. Results. Comparison simulations between the proposed controller with the optimal reinforcement learning and the proportional-integral-derivative controller show that the proposed methodology has the best performance in regulating the fluctuation of the blood glucose. The proposed controller also improved the blood glucose responses and prevented hypoglycemia condition. Simulation of the control system in different uncertain conditions provided insights on how the inaccuracies of carbohydrate counting and meal-time reporting affect the performance of the control system. Conclusion. The proposed controller is an effective tool for reducing postmeal blood glucose rise and for countering the effects of external known events such as meal intake and maintaining blood glucose at a healthy level under uncertainties.
Computed Tomography Imaging Findings of Pulmonary Chondroma
Authors: Wang Hexiang , Nie Pei , Dong Cheng , Hou Feng , Zhang Peng , Lin Jizheng , Liu Jihua
Published: December 2018

Purpose. To characterize the computed tomography (CT) imaging findings in patients with pulmonary chondroma. Methods. We examined CT imaging findings of eight patients with histopathologically verified pulmonary chondroma. We assessed the location, size, shape, margins, amount of calcification, calcification pattern, and attenuation on precontrast and enhancement CT. Results. All patients exhibited solitary, mildly lobulated pulmonary masses, which were located in the right lung in four cases and the left lung in four cases. The mean lesion size was 3.7 cm (range 0.9–10.7 cm). All eight tumours had a well-defined margin. On plain CT images, seven of the cases (87.5%) showed a mass with varying degrees of calcification, which included strip-like punctate (n=5) and ring (n=2) patterns. One patient with a large lesion (10.7 cm) showed chest wall adhesion. On contrast-enhanced CT images, all lesions demonstrated slight inhomogeneous enhancement ≤14 HU. Conclusion. CT is the reference standard diagnostic technique for locating pulmonary chondroma. In most cases, CT findings show some characteristics that are important in the diagnosis, surgical planning, and follow-up of the tumour.
Norfluoxetine Prevents Degeneration of Dopamine Neurons by Inhibiting Microglia-Derived Oxidative Stress in an MPTP Mouse Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Kim Kyung In , Chung Young Cheul , Jin Byung Kwan
Published: December 2018

Neuroinflammation is the neuropathological feature of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and causes microglial activation and activated microglia-derived oxidative stress in the PD patients and PD animal models, resulting in neurodegeneration. The present study examined whether norfluoxetine (a metabolite of fluoxetine) could regulate neuroinflammation in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropypridine (MPTP) mouse model of PD and rescue dopamine neurons. Analysis by tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunohistochemistry demonstrated that norfluoxetine prevents degeneration of nigrostriatal dopamine neurons in vivo in MPTP-lesioned mice compared to vehicle-treated MPTP-lesioned control mice. MAC-1 immunostaining and hydroethidine histochemical staining showed that norfluoxetine neuroprotection is accompanied by inhibiting MPTP-induced microglial activation and activated microglia-derived reactive oxygen species production in vivo, respectively. In the separate experiments, treatment with norfluoxetine inhibited NADPH oxidase activation and nitrate production in LPS-treated cortical microglial cultures in vitro. Collectively, these in vivo and in vitro results suggest that norfluoxetine could be employed as a novel therapeutic agent for treating PD, which is associated with neuroinflammation and microglia-derived oxidative stress.
Accelerated Wound Healing by Fibroblasts Differentiated from Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in a Pressure Ulcer Animal Model
Authors: Yoon Dajeong , Yoon Dogeon , Sim Heejoong , Hwang Inseok , Lee Ji-Seon , Chun Wook
Published: December 2018

Fibroblasts synthesize and secrete dermal collagen, matrix proteins, growth factors, and cytokines. These characteristics of fibroblasts provide a potential way for fibroblast therapy to treat skin ulcers more effectively than conventional therapies such as cytokine therapy and negative pressure wound therapy. However, the obstacle to the commercialization of fibroblast therapy is the limited supply of cells with consistent quality. In this study, we tested whether human embryonic stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hESC-MSCs) could be differentiated into fibroblasts considering that they have characteristics of high differentiation rates, unlimited proliferation possibility from a single colony, and homogeneity. As a result, hESC-MSC-derived fibroblasts (hESC-MSC-Fbs) showed a significant increase in the expression of type I and III collagen, fibronectin, and fibroblast-specific protein-1 (FSP-1). Besides, vessel formation and wound healing were enhanced in hESC-MSC-Fb-treated skin tissues compared to PBS- or hESC-MSC-treated skin tissues, along with decreased IL-6 expression at 4 days after the formation of pressure ulcer wound in a mouse model. In view of the limited available cell sources for fibroblast therapy, hESC-MSC-Fbs show a promising potential as a commercial cell therapy source to treat skin ulcers.
In Vitro Susceptibility of Mycobacterium abscessus and Mycobacterium fortuitum Isolates to 30 Antibiotics
Authors: Shen Yaojie , Wang Xuyang , Jin Jialin , Wu Jing , Zhang Xuelian , Chen Jiazhen , Zhang Wenhong
Published: December 2018

Objective. Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) cause various diseases in humans and animals. Recently, the prevalence of NTM-related disease has been on the rise, becoming an emerging public health problem. The aim of this study was to determine the antibiotic susceptibility profiles of clinical isolates of Mycobacterium abscessus and Mycobacterium fortuitum. Methods. We performed susceptibility tests on 37 clinical NTM isolates to 30 antibiotics with the microdilution method recommended by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Results. Both M. abscessus and M. fortuitum were highly resistant to antitubercular drugs such as isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, clofazimine, ethionamide, and rifabutin. M. abscessus showed the lowest resistant rates to cefoxitin (10%), azithromycin (10%), amikacin (10%), and clarithromycin (20%) and very high resistant to sulfamethoxazole, vancomycin, oxacillin, clindamycin, and all fluoroquinolones. M. fortuitum showed low resistance to tigecycline (0%), tetracycline (0%), cefmetazole (12%), imipenem (12%), linezolid (18%), and the aminoglycosides amikacin (0%), tobramycin (0%), neomycin (0%), and gentamycin (24%). Conclusion. Amikacin, cefoxitin, and azithromycin have the highest in vitro activity against M. abscessus. Isolates of M. fortuitum need to be individually evaluated for drug susceptibility before choosing an effective antimicrobial regimen for treatment of infections.
Cutaneous Side Effects of Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy for Advanced Melanoma
Authors: Russo Irene , Zorzetto Ludovica , Chiarion Sileni Vanna , Alaibac Mauro
Published: December 2018

Melanoma is one of the most fatal cancers, and its incidence is increasing worldwide. Thanks to the better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of melanoma, recently new targeted agents have been developed. In this article, we review the current state of knowledge of clinical presentation, mechanisms, and management of the most common cutaneous side effects observed during treatment with targeted and immunological therapies approved for advanced melanoma. We include discussion of BRAF/MEK inhibitors and immune-checkpoint inhibitors, notably CTLA-4 and PD-1 inhibitors.
Modeling and Analysis of Effective Case Depth on Meshing Strength of Internal Gear Transmissions
Authors: Liu Dezheng , Li Yan , Wang Zhongren , Wang You , Wang Yu
Published: December 2018

The effective case depth (ECD) plays an important role in the meshing strength of internal gear transmissions. Carburizing quenching heat treatment is commonly used to enhance gear strength and wear resistance. However, the different ECDs in internal and external gears caused by heat treatment significantly affect the meshing strength, causing vibration, reducing gear service life, and hastening malfunction in internal gear transmission. In this study, we conducted an investigation of different ECDs by the heat treatment of carburized gear pairs by numerical simulation with the finite element method (FEM) and experiment tests. We analyzed three different carburized layer models, with the ECD in the internal gear being greater than, less than, and equal to the ECD in the external gear. In addition, we investigated the ability to distinguish between hardness gradients in gear teeth by dividing the carburized depth into seven layers to improve modeling accuracy. Results revealed that the meshing strength of internal gear transmission could be significantly enhanced by adopting the model with the ECD in the internal gear being less than the ECD in the external gear, and moreover, the shear stress of carburized gears initially increased and then decreased along with depth direction, and the maximum value appeared in the middle of the lower surface.
Antimicrobial Characteristics of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Homemade Fermented Foods
Authors: Ren Dayong , Zhu Jianwei , Gong Shengjie , Liu Hongyan , Yu Hansong
Published: December 2018

Objective. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from fermented foods, such as glutinous rice dough, corn noodle, chili sauce, potherb mustard pickles, and stinky tofu, in northeast China. LAB strains with antimicrobial activities were screened, and seven of these Lactobacillus strains were identified as L. plantarum, L. pentosus, and L. paracasei through 16S rRNA gene analysis. After the supernatant of LAB was treated with proteinase K, pepsin, and papain, their antibacterial effect almost disappeared. Most strains with antibacterial activities were highly resistant to heat (65°C–121°C), acidity (pH 2–6), and alcohol. The antimicrobial effect of most strains treated with the Tween-80 surfactant was significantly reduced, and the antibacterial property of T4 was even lost. Ammonium sulfate precipitation, PCR, and nanoLC-ESI-MS/MS results confirmed that T8 produced antibacterial substances belonging to a protein family, and its zone of inhibition against pathogens significantly increased (>13 mm). In bacterial growth inhibition experiments, the colony count of Staphylococcus aureus was up to 1015 CFU/mL in the 3⁎de Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe (MRS) group, and this value was more than that in the 3⁎S6 supernatant group (1012 CFU/mL) and the control group (1010 CFU/mL) at 12 h. This study provided a basis for the selection of antimicrobial peptides and the development and utilization of LAB.
Hyperbaric Oxygen as an Adjunctive Therapy Postfasciotomy for Unilateral Supraspinatus Rhabdomyolysis and Compartment Syndrome
Authors: Hoy G. , Hasenkam C. , Fock A. , McLean C.
Published: December 2018

We present a case of severe supraspinatus muscle rhabdomyolysis following overexertion in a young male. Preexisting risk factors included illicit drug use. Even single muscle rhabdomyolysis can cause significant renal failure, and in our case the use of intravenous flushing was used in conjunction with hyperbaric oxygen after muscle compartment fasciotomy to maximize muscle recovery and renal protection in a manual worker (musician). Clinicians should be alert to severe muscle pain requiring narcotics after strenuous use.
Preliminary Assessment of Hydrogen Peroxide Gel as an Oxidizer in a Catalyst Ignited Hybrid Thruster
Authors: Huh Jeongmoo , Jyoti Botchu V. S. , Yun Yongtae , Shoaib M. N. , Kwon Sejin
Published: December 2018

In regard to propulsion system applications, the stability of liquid propellants in long-term storage is of increasing importance, and this had led to a greater interest in gelation technology. As part of a preliminary test to determine the feasibility of using a gel propellant in a rocket with a catalyst bed, a hybrid rocket with a catalyst reactor using a gel propellant as an oxidizer was tested for the first time in this study. Experiments were conducted with two different oxidizers: one with liquid phase hydrogen peroxide and the other with gel phase hydrogen peroxide, as well as high-density polyethylene as fuel for a 250 N class hybrid thruster performance test. The thruster was designed with the catalyst ignition system, and a catalyst was manufactured to be inserted into the catalyst reactor to facilitate oxidizer decomposition. While the test result with neat hydrogen peroxide indicated sufficient decomposition efficiency using a manganese dioxide/alumina catalyst and successful autoignition of the fuel via the decomposed product, gel hydrogen peroxide exhibited insufficient decomposition and there were difficulties in operating the thruster as a part of the catalyst was covered in the gelling agent. This preliminary study identifies the potential challenges of using a gel phase oxidizer in a catalyst ignited hybrid thruster and discusses the technical issues that should be addressed in regard to a gel propellant hybrid thruster design with a catalyst reactor.
High-Resolution Climate Simulations in the Tropics with Complex Terrain Employing the CESM/WRF Model
Authors: Afrizal Tomi , Surussavadee Chinnawat
Published: December 2018

This study evaluates the high-resolution climate simulation system CESM/WRF composed of the global climate model, Community Earth System Model (CESM) version 1, and the mesoscale model, Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF), for simulating high-resolution climatological temperature and precipitation in the tropics with complex terrain where temperature and precipitation are strongly inhomogeneous. The CESM/WRF climatological annual and seasonal precipitation and temperature simulations for years 1980–1999 at 10 km resolution for Sumatra and nearby regions are evaluated using observations and the global climate reanalysis ERA-Interim (ERA). CESM/WRF simulations at 10 km resolution are also compared with the downscaled reanalysis ERA/WRF at 10 km resolution. Results show that while temperature and precipitation patterns of the original CESM are very different from observations, those for CESM/WRF agree well with observations. Resolution and accuracies of simulations are significantly improved by dynamically downscaling CESM using WRF. CESM/WRF can simulate locations of very cold temperature at mountain peaks well. The high-resolution climate simulation system CESM/WRF can provide useful climate simulations at high resolution for Sumatra and nearby regions. CESM/WRF-simulated climatological temperature and precipitation at 10 km resolution agree well with ERA/WRF. This suggests the use of CESM/WRF for climate projections at high resolution for Sumatra and nearby regions.
Hematological Abnormalities of Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients with and without HIV at the University of Gondar Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Abay Feven , Yalew Aregawi , Shibabaw Agumas , Enawgaw Bamlaku
Published: December 2018

Background. Hematological abnormalities are common in pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients, which is one of the major public health problems worldwide. However, there is paucity of information about the hematological profile of PTB patients with and without HIV in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess hematological abnormalities of pulmonary tuberculosis patients with and without HIV at the University of Gondar Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods. A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at the University of Gondar Hospital. Sociodemographic data was collected using a pretested, structured questionnaire. Five milliliters of venous blood sample was collected and divided into a 3 ml EDTA tube for complete blood count with the Cell Dyn 1800 hematological analyzer and a 2 ml citrated tube for erythrocyte sedimentation rate determination. Data were entered into Epi Info version 3.5.3 and then transferred to SPSS 20 for analysis. The independent samples t-test was used to compare the mean values of hematological parameters between PTB patients and PTB-HIV coinfected patients. Result. A total of 100 study subjects (50 PTB and 50 PTB-HIV coinfected) were included with a mean age of 31.3 ± 10.3 years for PTB patients and 32.1 ± 9.2 years for PTB-HIV coinfected patients. In this study, there were significantly lower mean values of Hgb (P = 0.049), platelet count (P < 0.001), and neutrophils counts (P = 0.007) among PTB-HIV coinfected patients when compared with PTB patients. Of the PTB infected patients 46% were anemic, 6% leukopenic, 22% neutropenic, 8% lymphopenic, and 8% thrombocytopenic. On the other hand, of the PTB-HIV coinfected patients 60% were anemic, 14% leukopenic, 66% neutropenic, 12% lymphopenic, and 20% thrombocytopenic. ESR value was increased in all patients. Conclusion. This study demonstrated high prevalence of neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia among PTB-HIV coinfected patients. HIV coinfection worsens hematological abnormalities of PTB patients. Assessment of hematological parameters can be used as an indicator in the diagnosis and follow-up of PTB patients coinfected with HIV. We recommended assessment of PTB patients with or without HIV for various hematological disorders such as neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia.
The Diagnostic and Prognostic Values of C-Reactive Protein and Procalcitonin during Bacterial Infections in Decompensated Cirrhosis
Authors: Khedher Sana , Fouthaili Nasreddine , Maoui Amira , Lahiani Sirine , Salem Mohamed , Bouzid Kahena
Published: December 2018

Background. Bacterial infection (BI) represents the main cause of decompensation and death in cirrhotic patients. Procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) are two widely used biomarkers that may be helpful for early detection of BI especially in the presence of inflammation. Their accuracy for the diagnosis of BI in patients with chronic liver disease has been a subject of debate. In this study, we aimed to learn whether PCT and CRP would be helpful as early markers of BI in patients with cirrhosis and to evaluate their prognostic value in terms of mortality.Subjects and Methods. We retrospectively included 92 adult patients with decompensated cirrhosis. PCT and CRP plasma levels were obtained within the first 24 hours of admission. Their diagnostic and prognostic values were compared using the appropriate statistical analysis.Results. Ninety-two patients were included. BI was diagnosed in 60 patients (65%). Mean white blood cell (WBC) count (p=0.005) and PCT and CRP serum levels (p<0.001) were higher in the BI group than in the non-BI (NBI) group. The diagnostic accuracy of CRP and PCT for the diagnosis of BI was better than that of WBC. CRP was the most sensitive marker (70%) while PCT was the more specific (96.6%). No one of those biomarkers was predictive of 3-month mortality in patients with BI.Conclusion. Regarding BI in patients with decompensated cirrhosis, CRP maintains efficiency slightly higher than that of the PCT without being discriminative. However, no prognostic value has been established for these markers.
The Distribution of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), Human Beta-Defensin-2 (HBD-2), and Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) in Intra-Abdominal Adhesions in Children under One Year of Age
Authors: Junga Anna , Pilmane Māra , Ābola Zane , Volrāts Olafs
Published: December 2018

The regulatory role between ischemia related factors and antimicrobial peptides in congenital intra-abdominal adhesions has not yet been defined. The aim of this research was to investigate the appearance and relative distribution of VEGF, HBD-2, and HGF in congenital intra-abdominal adhesions compared with relatively healthy tissue controls. The study group material was obtained from 48 patients who underwent abdominal surgery due to partial or complete bowel obstruction. VEGF, HBD-2, and HGF were detected using immunohistochemistry methods and their relative distribution was evaluated by means of the semiquantitative counting method. The results were analyzed using nonparametric statistic methods. A moderate number of VEGF positive endotheliocytes were detected, but there was no statistically significant difference between the groups. In the experimental group, a moderate to high number of VEGF positive macrophages was observed. In control group tissues, such macrophages were seen in significantly lower number (U = 61.0, p = 0.001). The increase of VEGF positive cells indicates support of angiogenesis due to the hypoxic conditions in case of adhesion disease. The number of HBD-2 marked fibroblasts and macrophages was moderate to high, but only few positive endotheliocytes were observed. Persisting appearance of HBD-2 positive structures might be a result of the inflammatory process. Most specimens showed occasional HGF positive macrophages and fibroblasts and there was no statistically significant difference between the groups. The relatively weak appearance of HGF suggests that the lack of this factor promotes the formation of fibrotic changes in case of intra-abdominal adhesions.
Natural Compound Oridonin Inhibits Endotoxin-Induced Inflammatory Response of Activated Hepatic Stellate Cells
Authors: Cummins Claire B. , Wang Xiaofu , Sommerhalder Christian , Bohanon Frederick J. , Nunez Lopez Omar , Tie Hong-Yan , Rontoyanni Victoria G. , Zhou Jia , Radhakrishnan Ravi S.
Published: December 2018

Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play an important role in hepatic fibrogenesis and inflammatory modulation. Endotoxin is dramatically increased in portal venous blood after serious injury and can contribute to liver damage. However, the mechanism underlying endotoxin’s effects on HSCs remains largely unknown. Oridonin is a bioactive diterpenoid isolated from Rabdosia rubescens that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties in different tissues. In the present study, we determined the effects of oridonin on endotoxin-induced inflammatory response and signaling pathways in vitro. The production of proinflammatory cytokines in activated human HSCs line LX-2 was measured by ELISA and Western blots. Immunofluorescence and nuclear fractionation assay were used to determine NF-κB activity. Oridonin treatment significantly inhibited LPS-induced proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and MCP-1 production as well as cell adhesion molecules ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. Additionally, oridonin blocked LPS-induced NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation and DNA binding activity. Oridonin prevented LPS-stimulated NF-κB regulator IKKα/β and IκBα phosphorylation and IκBα degradation. Combined treatment of oridonin and an Hsp70 substrate binding inhibitor synergistically suppressed LPS-stimulated proinflammatory cytokines and NF-κB pathway activation. Therefore, oridonin inhibits LPS-stimulated proinflammatory mediators through IKK/IκBα/NF-κB pathway. Oridonin could be a promising agent for a hepatic anti-inflammatory.
A Case of Sporadic Blau Syndrome with an Uncommon Clinical Course
Authors: Imayoshi Miyoko , Ogata Yoshiyasu , Yamamoto Shuichi
Published: December 2018

Background. Sporadic Blau syndrome (SBS), a rare systemic inflammatory disease in children, is associated with NOD2 gene mutations. SBS is often misdiagnosed as juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) because of their similar clinical manifestations. Herein, we present a case of SBS with an uncommon clinical course. Case Presentation. An 11-year-old girl with recurrent right ankle swelling for 4 years was referred to our hospital. One month before admission, she developed an intermittent high fever. She was diagnosed with systemic-onset JIA on the basis of physical and blood examination results. She was treated with ibuprofen, prednisolone, and methotrexate for 5 years. During this period, her joint lesion showed neither bone destruction nor joint space narrowing on radiography, which are characteristics of JIA. Twelve months after the termination of methotrexate treatment, she presented with bilateral panuveitis. A missense mutation, p.(R587C), was detected in her NOD2 gene, and she was diagnosed with SBS. Then, infliximab treatment was started, and her visual acuity recovered. Conclusion. SBS may sometimes be misdiagnosed as JIA. A joint lesion without bone destruction might be a key feature to distinguish SBS from JIA. Analysis of the NOD2 gene is recommended in such cases.
Effect of Hemiepiphysiodesis on the Growth Plate: The Histopathological Changes and Mechanism Exploration of Recurrence in Mini Pig Model
Authors: Ding Jing , He Jin , Zhang Zhi-qiang , Wu Zhen-kai , Jin Fang-chun
Published: December 2018

Purpose. Hemiepiphysiodesis has been widely used to correct angular deformity of long bone in immature patients. However, there is a limited knowledge about the biomechanical effect of this technique on the histopathological changes of the growth plate and the mechanism of recurrence of malformation after implant removal. We aimed to evaluate the biomechanical effect of hemiepiphysiodesis on the histopathological changes of the growth plate and the mechanism of recurrence of malformation after implant removal in Bama miniature pigs, and to explore the role of asymmetric stress during this procedure. Methods. Eight 3-month-old male Bama miniature pigs sustained surgeries on the bilateral medial hind leg proximal tibia as the intervention group (n=16), and four pigs sustained bilateral sham surgeries as the control (n=8). In the 18th week after surgeries, hardware was removed in the unilateral leg of each animal in the intervention group. In the 24th week of the study, all animals were euthanized. A total of 24 samples were obtained and stained with H&E, TUNEL, and immunohistochemistry. Sixteen samples in the intervention group were divided into two subgroups. The tibias without an implant were included in the implant removal group (IR group), while the tibias with an implant were included in the implant persist group (IP group). The proximal tibia specimens were divided into 3 equidistant parts from medial to lateral, named as area A, area B, and area C, respectively. The change of thickness of growth plates, chondral apoptosis index, and the expression of Caspase-3, Caspase-9, CHOP, and P65 were compared. Results. H&E staining showed the thickness of growth plate to be varied in different areas. In the IP group, the thickness of growth plate in areas A and B was statistically significantly thinner than that in area C (p<0.05). In the IR group, the thickness of growth plate in areas A and B was statistically significantly thicker than that in area C (p<0.05). TUNEL staining showed that the apoptosis rate increased significantly after hemiepiphysiodesis and declined after implant removal (p<0.05). Immunohistochemical staining suggested that the expression of Caspase-3, Caspase-9, P65, and CHOP protein was upregulated in the experimental group and downregulated after implant removal. Conclusion. The thickness parameter of the growth plate changes with asymmetric pressure. When the pressure is relieved, the recurrence of malformation is related to the thickening of the growth plate.
Is IVF/ICSI an Independent Risk Factor for Spontaneous Preterm Birth in Singletons? A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Jančar Nina , Mihevc Ponikvar Barbara , Tomšič Sonja , Vrtačnik Bokal Eda , Korošec Sara
Published: December 2018

The aim of our study was to explore the risk factors for very preterm (gestation under 32 weeks) and moderate preterm birth (gestation weeks 32-36 6/7) in singleton pregnancies in a national retrospective cohort study. We also wanted to establish whether IVF/ICSI is an independent risk factor for preterm birth after adjusting for already known confounders. We used data for 267 718 singleton births from 2002-2015 from the National Perinatal Information System of Slovenia, containing data on woman, pregnancy, birth, the postpartum period, and the neonate for each mother–infant pair. Mode of conception, maternal age, education, BMI, parity, smoking, history of cervical excision procedure, history of hysteroscopic resection of uterine septum, presence of other congenital uterine malformations, bleeding in pregnancy, preeclampsia or HELLP and maternal heart, and pulmonary or renal illness were included in the analyses. Unadjusted OR for very preterm birth after IVF-ICSI was 2.8 and for moderate preterm birth was 1.7. After adjusting for known confounders, the OR was still significantly elevated (1.6 and 1.3, respectively). Risk factors for very preterm birth with OR higher than 2.4 were history of cervical excision procedure, resection of uterine septum, operation or having other congenital uterine malformations, and bleeding in pregnancy. Risk factors for very preterm birth with OR between 1.4 and 2.1 were age >35 years, being underweight or obese, not having professional education, smoking, first birth, preeclampsia/HELLP, and IVF/ICSI. Risk factors for moderate preterm birth with OR higher than 2.4 were history of cold knife conization and other congenital uterine malformations. We found that even after adjustment, IVF/ICSI represents a single risk factor for early and late preterm birth even after adjustment with other risks such as maternal age, smoking, or a history of invasive procedures for either cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or infertility treatment.
Numerical Solution of a Class of Nonlinear Partial Differential Equations by Using Barycentric Interpolation Collocation Method
Authors: Wu Hongchun , Wang Yulan , Zhang Wei
Published: December 2018

Partial differential equations (PDEs) are widely used in mechanics, control processes, ecological and economic systems, chemical cycling systems, and epidemiology. Although there are some numerical methods for solving PDEs, simple and efficient methods have always been the direction that scholars strive to pursue. Based on this problem, we give the meshless barycentric interpolation collocation method (MBICM) for solving a class of PDEs. Four numerical experiments are carried out and compared with other methods; the accuracy of the numerical solution obtained by the present method is obviously improved.
Hierarchical Production Planning and Real-Time Control for Parallel Batch Machines in a Flow Shop with Incompatible Jobs
Authors: Huang JinDian , Liu JianJun
Published: December 2018

Effective control of the heat-treatment operation is essential to reducing manufacturing cost in mould manufacturing. The heat-treatment shop floor is a flow shop with parallel batch processors and incompatible jobs. The jobs differ from each other in product types, sizes, release times, and due-dates. The scheduling objective is to minimize manufacturing cost, including energy cost, subcontracting cost, and jobs’ tardiness penalties cost. A hierarchical production planning structure is proposed, which contains three decision-making levels: (1) balancing capacity and demand, (2) machining at the quenching stage, and (3) machining at the tempering stage. At the first level, the periodic rolling scheduling heuristic is proposed for the purpose of balancing the capacity and the demand in the coming period in the heat-treatment shop floor. At the second and third levels, two new look-ahead batching heuristics are proposed. An extensive computational experiment is conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed heuristics.
Deep Residual Bidir-LSTM for Human Activity Recognition Using Wearable Sensors
Authors: Zhao Yu , Yang Rennong , Chevalier Guillaume , Xu Ximeng , Zhang Zhenxing
Published: December 2018

Human activity recognition (HAR) has become a popular topic in research because of its wide application. With the development of deep learning, new ideas have appeared to address HAR problems. Here, a deep network architecture using residual bidirectional long short-term memory (LSTM) is proposed. The advantages of the new network include that a bidirectional connection can concatenate the positive time direction (forward state) and the negative time direction (backward state). Second, residual connections between stacked cells act as shortcut for gradients, effectively avoiding the gradient vanishing problem. Generally, the proposed network shows improvements on both the temporal (using bidirectional cells) and the spatial (residual connections stacked) dimensions, aiming to enhance the recognition rate. When testing with the Opportunity dataset and the public domain UCI dataset, the accuracy is significantly improved compared with previous results.