bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic targeting and resistance to PARP inhibition in DNA damage repair-deficient pancreatic cancer
Authors: Gout Johann , Perkhofer Lukas , Morawe Mareen , Arnold Frank , Ihle Michaela , Biber Stephanie , Lange Sebastian , Roger Elodie , Kraus Johann M , Stifter Katja , Hahn Stephan A , Zamperone Andrea , Engleitner Thomas , Müller Martin , Walter Karolin , Rodriguez-Aznar Eva , Sainz Jr Bruno , Hermann Patrick C , Hessmann Elisabeth , Müller Sebastian , Azoitei Ninel , Lechel André , Liebau Stefan , Wagner Martin , Simeone Diane M , Kestler Hans A , Seufferlein Thomas , Wiesmüller Lisa , Rad Roland , Frappart Pierre-Olivier , Kleger Alexander
Published: September 2020

Objective

ATM serine/threonine kinase (ATM) is the most frequently mutated DNA damage response gene, involved in homologous recombination (HR), in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

Design

Combinational synergy screening was performed to endeavour a genotype-tailored targeted therapy.

Results

Synergy was found on inhibition of PARP, ATR and DNA-PKcs (PAD) leading to synthetic lethality in ATM-deficient murine and human PDAC. Mechanistically, PAD-induced PARP trapping, replication fork stalling and mitosis defects leading to P53-mediated apoptosis. Most importantly, chemical inhibition of ATM sensitises human PDAC cells toward PAD with long-term tumour control in vivo. Finally, we anticipated and elucidated PARP inhibitor resistance within the ATM-null background via whole exome sequencing. Arising cells were aneuploid, underwent epithelial-mesenchymal-transition and acquired multidrug resistance (MDR) due to upregulation of drug transporters and a bypass within the DNA repair machinery. These functional observations were mirrored in copy number variations affecting a region on chromosome 5 comprising several of the upregulated MDR genes. Using these findings, we ultimately propose alternative strategies to overcome the resistance.

Conclusion

Analysis of the molecular susceptibilities triggered by ATM deficiency in PDAC allow elaboration of an efficient mutation-specific combinational therapeutic approach that can be also implemented in a genotype-independent manner by ATM inhibition.
Western-type diet influences mortality from necrotising pancreatitis and demonstrates a central role for butyrate
Authors: van den Berg Fons F , van Dalen Demi , Hyoju Sanjiv K , van Santvoort Hjalmar C , Besselink Marc G , Wiersinga Willem Joost , Zaborina Olga , Boermeester Marja A , Alverdy John
Published: September 2020

Objective

The gut microbiota are the main source of infections in necrotising pancreatitis. We investigated the effect of disruption of the intestinal microbiota by a Western-type diet on mortality and bacterial dissemination in necrotising pancreatitis and its reversal by butyrate supplementation.

Design

C57BL/6 mice were fed either standard chow or a Western-type diet for 4 weeks and were then subjected to taurocholate-induced necrotising pancreatitis. Blood and pancreas were collected for bacteriology and immune analysis. The cecum microbiota composition of mice was analysed using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and cecal content metabolites were analysed by targeted (ie, butyrate) and untargeted metabolomics. Prevention of necrotising pancreatitis in this model was compared between faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from healthy mice, antibiotic decontamination against Gram-negative bacteria and oral or systemic butyrate administration. Additionally, the faecal microbiota of patients with pancreatitis and healthy subjects were analysed.

Results

Mortality, systemic inflammation and bacterial dissemination were increased in mice fed Western diet and their gut microbiota were characterised by a loss of diversity, a bloom ofEscherichia coliand an altered metabolic profile with butyrate depletion. While antibiotic decontamination decreased mortality, Gram-positive dissemination was increased. Both oral and systemic butyrate supplementation decreased mortality, bacterial dissemination, and reversed the microbiota alterations. Paradoxically, mortality and bacterial dissemination were increased with FMT administration. Finally, patients with acute pancreatitis demonstrated an increase in Proteobacteria and a decrease of butyrate producers compared with healthy subjects.

Conclusion

Butyrate depletion and its repletion appear to play a central role in disease progression towards necrotising pancreatitis.
Adaptations to the current ECCO/ESPGHAN guidelines on the management of paediatric acute severe colitis in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: a RAND appropriateness panel
Authors: Hansen Richard , Meade Susanna , Beattie R Mark , Auth Marcus KH , Croft Nick , Davies Philip , Devadason David , Doherty Conor , Epstein Jenny , Howarth Lucy , Kiparissi Fevronia , Muhammed Rafeeq , Shivamurthy Vinay , Spray Christine , Stanton Michael P , Torrente Franco , Urs Arun , Wilson David , Irving Peter M , Samaan Mark , Kammermeier Jochen
Published: September 2020

Objective

Paediatric acute severe colitis (ASC) management during the novel SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 pandemic is challenging due to reliance on immunosuppression and the potential for surgery. We aimed to provide COVID-19-specific guidance using the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation/European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition guidelines for comparison.

Design

We convened a RAND appropriateness panel comprising 14 paediatric gastroenterologists and paediatric experts in surgery, rheumatology, respiratory and infectious diseases. Panellists rated the appropriateness of interventions for ASC in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results were discussed at a moderated meeting prior to a second survey.

Results

Panellists recommended patients with ASC have a SARS-CoV-2 swab and expedited biological screening on admission and should be isolated. A positive swab should trigger discussion with a COVID-19 specialist. Sigmoidoscopy was recommended prior to escalation to second-line therapy or colectomy. Methylprednisolone was considered appropriate first-line management in all, including those with symptomatic COVID-19. Thromboprophylaxis was also recommended in all. In patients requiring second-line therapy, infliximab was considered appropriate irrespective of SARS-CoV-2 status. Delaying colectomy due to SARS-CoV-2 infection was considered inappropriate. Corticosteroid tapering over 8–10 weeks was deemed appropriate for all. After successful corticosteroid rescue, thiopurine maintenance was rated appropriate in patients with negative SARS-CoV-2 swab and asymptomatic patients with positive swab but uncertain in symptomatic COVID-19.

Conclusion

Our COVID-19-specific adaptations to paediatric ASC guidelines using a RAND panel generally support existing recommendations, particularly the use of corticosteroids and escalation to infliximab, irrespective of SARS-CoV-2 status. Consideration of routine prophylactic anticoagulation was recommended.
p63 expression is associated with high histological grade, aberrant p53 expression and TP53 mutation in HER2-positive breast carcinoma
Authors: Guo Shuangping , Wang Yingmei , Rohr Joseph , Shang Li , Ma Jing
Published: September 2020

Aim

p63, a member of the p53 family, is a myoepithelial cell marker usually expressed in metaplastic breast carcinoma and its expression suggests a myoepithelial phenotype. However, its expression and association with clinicopathological features of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER 2)-positive breast carcinoma is poorly investigated.

Materials and methods

Sixty-seven patients with oestrogen receptor-negative and progesterone receptor-negative, HER2-positive breast carcinoma who received anti-HER2-based neoadjuvant±adjuvant therapy was retrospectively analysed.

Results

Twenty cases were p63-positive and 47 cases were p63-negative. The clinicopathological features and tumour responses after neoadjuvant therapy and outcomes were analysed. Among HER2-positive tumours, expression of p63 was significantly associated with younger age (42.5 vs 55.9; p=0.010). Expression of p63 was also significantly associated with histological grade 3 (11/20 (55%) vs 11/47 (23.4%); p=0.012) and negatively associated with grade 2 (9/20 (45%) vs 36/47 (76.6%); p=0.012). Intriguingly, p63-positive breast carcinomas showed significant aberrant p53 expression by immunohistochemistry (16/18 (88.9%) vs 29/47 (61.7%); p=0.03) and ofTP53mutation by Sanger sequencing (15/16 (93.8%) vs 12/22 (54.5%); p=0.009). No significant difference in tumour response after anti-HER2 neoadjuvant therapy nor in survival were found between p63-positive and p63-negative breast carcinomas.

Conclusion

Expression of p63 in HER2-positive breast carcinoma is significantly associated with younger age, poor differentiation, high histological grade and aberrant expression of p53 and ofTP53mutation. HER2-positive breast carcinoma with a myoepithelial immunophenotype shows distinctive clinicopathological features representing a distinct subtype of HER2-positive breast carcinoma. Further, these findings suggest an interaction between p63 and mutant p53 in the tumorigenesis of HER2-positive breast carcinomas.
Collaborative leadership: organisational structure and institutional investment to multiply innovative educational efforts among trainees
Authors: Do Albert , Li Luming , Heller Danielle R , Abou Ziki Maen D , Glaser Daniel H , Kumar Sumit P , Huot Stephen J
Published: September 2020

Background

Trainees comprise a substantial employee population worldwide and there is increasing perspective of leadership as a foundational skill of physician development. In the USA, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education mandates a ‘Resident/Fellow Forum’ to facilitate cross-institutional engagement and communication with the Graduate Medical Education Committee.

Interventions

To increase effectiveness, we conceived a ‘Senate’ in place of a forum, incorporating broader housestaff representation and partnerships with faculty and hospital executive leadership. The ‘Yale-New Haven Hospital Resident and Fellow Senate’ was supported by hospital financial resources and faculty mentorship. It provided leadership development, enhanced interdepartmental, connected multiple medical specialties, and improved housestaff engagement with institutional leaders. The Senate comprised an elected Executive Board and five councils in areas of common interest with appointed Chairs and members at large.

Conclusions

We summarise the Senate’s conception, structure, election process, lessons learnt and associated impact. We conclude that the creation of an institutionally supported Senate with interest-specific councils and faculty mentorship leads to qualitatively positive downstream effects on housestaff social interactions, institutional engagement and leadership opportunities.
Morphology of genitalia and non-genitalic contact structures inTrouessartiafeather mites (Astigmata: Analgoidea: Trouessartiidae): is there evidence of correlated evolution between the sexes?
Authors: Byers Kaylee A. , Proctor Heather C.
Published: September 2020

Positive correlations between the shapes of male and female sexual structures can be interpreted as cooperative or as combative. In the feather mite genus Trouessartia Canestrini, 1899, the spermaducts of females range from entirely internal to extending externally for varying lengths, whereas male primary genitalia range from gracile to massive. Males also possess a pair of adanal suckers used to hold onto the dorsal surface of the female during copulation. In the area of this attachment, females exhibit ornamentation and have strongly developed dorsal setae (setae h1), which we hypothesized serve to weaken the male’s hold during copulation. In male and female Trouessartia from 51 bird species, we compared female external spermaduct length and male genitalic “massiveness” and explored whether patterns of female dorsal ornamentation and (or) h1 seta size correlate with male adanal sucker size. Our results indicate that females with longer external spermaducts are associated with males with relatively massive genitalia. However, we found no significant relationship between male adanal sucker size and female ornamentation or h1 seta size. Further information regarding how the genitalia interact during sperm transfer is necessary to interpret correlations in genitalia size and strong intersexual differences in dorsal ornamentation and seta size in Trouessartia.
Subleading EW corrections and spin-correlation effects in $$t\bar{t}W$$ multi-lepton signatures
Authors: Frederix Rikkert , Tsinikos Ioannis
Published: September 2020

Recently a slight tension between data and predictions has been reported in $$t\bar{t}W$$

t

t

¯

W

production by both the CMS and ATLAS collaborations. We revisit the theoretical predictions for this process, focussing on the following two effects. We disentangle various effects that lead to asymmetries among the leptonic decay products of the (anti-)top quarks and W bosons, for which we find that the spin correlations in the top-quark pair are the dominant source. We also discuss the impact of the large, formally subleading, electroweak corrections to $$t\bar{t}W$$

t

t

¯

W

production at the LHC. We find that this effect changes the $$t\bar{t}W$$

t

t

¯

W

cross section significantly in the signature phase-space regions, and should therefore be included differentially in the theory to data comparisons.
The structural correlation and mechanical properties in amorphous hafnium oxide under pressure
Authors: Thoan Nguyen-Hoang , Do Nguyen-Trung , Trung Nguyen-Ngoc , Vinh Le-Van
Published: September 2020

The classical molecular dynamics (MD) technique was used to investigate the atomistic structure of amorphous hafnium oxide (HfO2) under pressure. The local atomic structure and the liquid-solid transition of HfO2 were analyzed for the pair radical distribution functions, bond angle distributions and coordination number. The simulation reveals that although the fractions of structural units HfO[Formula: see text] and OHf[Formula: see text] strongly change with the density, the partial bond angle distributions of these structural units are almost identical for all constructed models. This result has enabled us to establish a relationship between the bond angle distributions and the fractions of structural units.
MATHEMATICAL AND STABILITY ANALYSIS OF FRACTIONAL ORDER MODEL FOR SPREAD OF PESTS IN TEA PLANTS
Authors: ZAFAR ZAIN UL ABADIN , SHAH ZAHIR , ALI NIGAR , ALZAHRANI EBRAHEEM O. , SHUTAYWI MESHAL
Published: September 2020

In this paper, the fractional order model for the binge of pests in tea plants is studied numerically. This model consists of three compartments such as tea plant, pest and predator. The local and non-local stability investigation of the system is also deliberated. The Grunwald–Letnikov (GL coefficients) method and generalized Euler method (GEM) are used to elucidate and simulate the proposed system. We have obtained stability conditions for equilibrium points, provided a numerical example, and proved our results. The results illustrate the concentrations of tea plants, pests, and predators all reach their equilibrium values as time passes. An imperative feature of this model is that it controls the motion at which the solution to equilibrium is grasped.
RELIABILITY INDEX AND OPTION PRICING FORMULAS OF THE FIRST-HITTING TIME MODEL BASED ON THE UNCERTAIN FRACTIONAL-ORDER DIFFERENTIAL EQUATION WITH CAPUTO TYPE
Authors: JIN TING , YANG XIANGFENG , XIA HONGXUAN , DING HUI
Published: September 2020

Since the ability to control the investor’s income or loss within a certain range, barrier option has been among the most popular path-dependent options where its payoff depends on whether or not the underlying asset’s price reaches a given “barrier”. First, assuming the underlying asset as an uncertain variable for the case that the Caputo fractional-order derivative is adopted instead of the ordinary derivative, the real financial market is better modeled by the uncertain fractional-order differential equation with Caputo type. Then, a first-hitting time model which can measure the exercise ability is innovatively presented. Second, based on the first-hitting time theorem of the uncertain fractional-order differential equation, the reliability index (including validity and survival index) for the proposed model is obtained, and four types of European barrier option (including up-and-in call, down-and-in put, up-and-out put, and down-and-out call options) pricing formulas are obtained accordingly. Lastly, applying the predictor–corrector method, numerical algorithms are provided for calculating European barrier and the reliability index, numerical experiments and corresponding sensitivity analysis are also illustrated concerning various conditions.
UPPER BOX DIMENSION OF RIEMANN–LIOUVILLE FRACTIONAL INTEGRAL OF FRACTAL FUNCTIONS
Authors: LIANG Y. S. , WANG H. X.
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we mainly investigate fractal dimension of fractional calculus of certain continuous functions. It has been proved that upper Box dimension of Riemann–Liouville fractional integral of fractal functions whose upper Box dimension is greater than one of certain positive order is at least linearly decreasing. Fractal dimension of Riemann–Liouville fractional integral of any one-dimensional continuous functions with unbounded variation has been proved to be still one-dimensional too. An example about fractal linear interpolation functions shows that estimation is optimal.
A FRACTAL MODEL FOR CAPILLARY FLOW THROUGH A SINGLE TORTUOUS CAPILLARY WITH ROUGHENED SURFACES IN FIBROUS POROUS MEDIA
Authors: XIAO BOQI , HUANG QIWEN , CHEN HANXIN , CHEN XUBING , LONG GONGBO
Published: September 2020

In this paper, a fractal model for capillary flow through a single tortuous capillary with roughened surfaces in fibrous porous media is derived. The determined imbibition height and imbibition mass of capillary rise are in satisfying agreement with the existing models reported in the literature. It is found that the imbibition height and imbibition mass of capillary decreases with increasing relative roughness. Besides, it is observed that the equilibrium time in a single tortuous capillary with roughened surfaces decreases with an increase in relative roughness. In addition, it is seen that the imbibition height and imbibition mass of capillary rise increases with imbibition time. With the proposed fractal model, the physical mechanisms of capillary flow through a single tortuous capillary with roughened surfaces in fibrous porous media are better elucidated. One advantage of our fractal analytical model is that it contains no empirical constant, which is usually required in previous models.
COMPLEXITY AND INFORMATION-BASED ANALYSIS OF THE VARIATIONS OF THE SARS-COV-2 GENOME IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (USA)
Authors: NAMAZI HAMIDREZA , KREJCAR ONDREJ , SUBASI ABDULHAMIT
Published: September 2020

SARS-CoV-2 is a deadly virus that has affected human life since late 2019. Between all the countries that have reported the cases of patients with SARS-CoV-2 disease (COVID-19), the United States of America has the highest number of infected people and mortality rate. Since different states in the USA reported different numbers of patients and also death cases, analyzing the difference of SARS-CoV-2 between these states has great importance. Since the generated RNA walk from the SARS-CoV-2 genome includes complex random fluctuations that also contain information, in this study, we employ the complexity and information theories to investigate the variations of SARS-CoV-2 genome between different states in the USA for the first time. The results of our analysis showed that the fractal dimension and Shannon entropy of genome walk significantly change between different states. Based on these results, we can conclude that the SARS-CoV-2 genomic structure significantly changes between different states, which is resulted from the virus evolution. Therefore, developing a vaccine for SARS-CoV-2 is very challenging since it should be able to fight various structures of the virus in different states.
AN EFFICIENT MAXIMUM LIKELIHOOD ESTIMATOR FOR TWO-DIMENSIONAL FRACTIONAL BROWNIAN MOTION
Authors: CHANG YEN-CHING
Published: September 2020

For pattern recognition, natural scenes and medical images are often modeled as two-dimensional fractional Brownian motion (2D FBM), which can be easily described by the Hurst exponent ([Formula: see text], a real number between 0 and 1. The Hurst exponent is directly related to the fractal dimension ([Formula: see text]) by [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text], and hence it very suitably serves as a characteristic index. Therefore, how to estimate the Hurst exponent effectively and efficiently is very important in pattern recognition.

In this paper, a partially iterative algorithm, simply called an iterative maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) for 2D DFBM is first proposed and then a more sufficiently iterative algorithm, simply called an efficient MLE for 2D DFBM, is further proposed via a perfect structure of the log-likelihood function related to the Hurst exponent. Except for theoretical knowledge, two practical algorithms are also correspondingly provided for easy applications. Experimental results show that the MLE for 2D DFBM is effective and workable; its accuracy gets higher as the image size increases, and hence its recognition resolution is much finer to identify small difference among patterns. Furthermore, the efficient MLE is much quicker than the iterative MLE, especially at larger image sizes.
Sodium 3-mercaptopropanesulphonate substituted phthalocyanine: Synthesis, photophysical properties, in vitro and in vivo PDT efficacy
Authors: Biyiklioglu Mack
Published: September 2020

This article has been retracted. For details, please refer to the Retraction Notice published in Vol.25, No.2 (2021).
Between communication and violence
Authors: Crooks Roderic
Published: September 2020

Community + Culture features practitioner perspectives on designing technologies for and with communities. We highlight compelling projects and provocative points of view that speak to both community technology practice and the interaction design field as a whole. ---
Sheena Erete, Editor
Local Government Dependence on Criminal Justice Revenue and Emerging Constraints
Authors: Graham Shannon R. , Makowsky Michael D.
Published: September 2020

Revenue generated through the criminal justice system has become a key component of local government budgets across the United States. Although numerous restrictions exist to constrain traditional sources of revenue, only recently have legislators introduced checks on the fiscal profitability of fines, fees, forfeitures, and asset seizures. Left unrestricted, fiscal incentives have demonstrably manifested in the enforcement patterns and discretionary decisions of police. The transformation of officers into agents of revenue creation leads to increased targeting of minority populations and out-of-towners, with emphasis on arrests that yield potential property seizure, with negative consequences for both community trust and the provision of public safety. Those burdened with legal financial obligations are disproportionately poor, positioning the criminal justice system as a pointedly regressive form of taxation. We discuss the mechanisms behind criminal justice revenue generation, the consequences to law enforcement outcomes, and policies designed to reform and mitigate revenue-driven law enforcement.
New Horizons for Dissecting Epistasis in Crop Quantitative Trait Variation
Authors: Soyk Sebastian , Benoit Matthias , Lippman Zachary B.
Published: September 2020

Uncovering the genes, variants, and interactions underlying crop diversity is a frontier in plant genetics. Phenotypic variation often does not reflect the cumulative effect of individual gene mutations. This deviation is due to epistasis, in which interactions between alleles are often unpredictable and quantitative in effect. Recent advances in genomics and genome-editing technologies are elevating the study of epistasis in crops. Using the traits and developmental pathways that were major targets in domestication and breeding, we highlight how epistasis is central in guiding the behavior of the genetic variation that shapes quantitative trait variation. We outline new strategies that illuminate how quantitative epistasis from modified gene dosage defines background dependencies. Advancing our understanding of epistasis in crops can reveal new principles and approaches to engineering targeted improvements in agriculture.
Surface Plasmon Resonance Biosensor Performance Analysis on 2D Material Based on Graphene and Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Nurrohman Devi Taufiq , Chiu Nan-Fu
Published: September 2020

Since graphene was first isolated in 2004, research related to graphene-based 2D material for surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor applications has increased. Recently, other types of 2D materials such as Transition Metal Dichalcogenides have also been investigated. This 2D material has exceptional optical and electronic properties and can be utilized to improve the performance of biosensors. The performance of SPR biosensors can be determined based on their sensitivity and detection accuracy (DA). To find out the sensitivity and DA, simulation approach can be done. In this paper, we perform SPR simulations on monolayer and multilayer structures of 2D material, namely graphene, graphene oxide, molibdenum disulfida, and tungsten diselenide. In addition, we also investigated the sensitivity and DA of SPR biosensors on hybrid structures. The results obtained indicate that the use of 2D material can increase the sensitivity of the SPR up to 5 times when compared to conventional structures. Of the four types of 2D material investigated, GO is the material with the best accuracy. If the SPR biosensor performance is determined based on the FOM value, the best performance is owned by the GO-based SPR structure with a sensitivity of 151.87 deg/RIU and DA 0.22 deg-1.
Land Use and Land Cover Dynamics and Properties of Soils under Different Land Uses in the Tejibara Watershed, Ethiopia
Authors: Fentie Sabiela Fekad , Jembere Kehali , Fekadu Endalkachew , Wasie Dessale
Published: September 2020

Land use changes have long been considered among many factors responsible for physical and chemical soil degradation. This study was conducted to evaluate land use and land cover (LULC) changes and their cumulative effects over 30 years (from 1989 to 2019) on the current physical and chemical properties of soils in the Tejibara watershed, Ethiopia. Image analysis and LULC classifications were performed using ERDAS IMAGINE 2014 and ArcGIS 10.4 software, respectively. For the determination of soil properties, four land use types (natural forest, eucalyptus plantation, cultivated, and grazing lands) and two soil depths (0–20 and 20–40 cm) were used. Triplicate composite soil samples were collected from each land use type and soil depths. For the determination of physical (texture and bulk density) and chemical soil properties such as electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter (OM), total nitrogen (TN), and available phosphorus (AP), standard laboratory procedures were employed. The image analysis results for all of the years studied show that cultivated lands have increased in area at the expense of forest and grazing lands. Silt content, clay content, AP, and pH were significantly affected by land use as the main effect while the interaction effects of soil depth and land use were significant for total N and OM only. The highest (10.1 mg/kg) and the lowest (4.9 mg/kg) AP contents were observed in the forest and the grazing lands, respectively. Soil total N content was highest in the forest lands (0.32%) and lowest in cultivated lands (0.06%). Concerning OM content, the highest (11.0%) and the lowest (0.8%) values were recorded in the forest and cultivated lands, respectively. Generally, this study showed that land use changes have reduced the areal coverage by forest and grazing lands and have negatively affected the soil properties. This implies that land use change without soil fertility measures that are appropriate to the area could cause enhanced land degradation and thereby reduce the productivity of the study area soils.
Experimental Study on Viscoplastic Property of Unsaturated Reticulate Red Clay Used as an Engineered Barrier
Authors: Zhang Chuang , Li Jian-Zhong , He Yong
Published: September 2020

In this study, to explore the feasibility of a compacted red clay as an engineered barrier in landfills, the viscoplastic property of remodeled unsaturated reticulate red clay was studied through a series of triaxial tests. According to the deviatoric stress–axial strain curves obtained through loading tests with varying strain rates and under different conditions, the viscoplastic parameter β of remodeled reticulate red clay was obtained. The effects of different matric suctions and net confining pressures on the viscoplasticity of unsaturated reticulate clay were analyzed. The test results showed that remodeled reticulate red clays with different degrees of saturation have similar viscoplastic properties, and their stress–strain curves are all isotach. The stiffness of unsaturated reticulate red clay increased with increasing confining pressure and matric suction. The relationship between β and the net confining pressure can be described using a linear equation. The β value of the specimens increased with increasing matric suction under a constant net confining pressure. A similar linear relationship was observed between β and the matric suction. These relationships are explained considering the loading rate effect mechanism.
Multimotors Coordination Control Method for Consistent Total Traction Torque of Electric Locomotives
Authors: Liu Jianhua , Nie Rui , Li Zheshu
Published: September 2020

Multimotors traction is a common driving mode for electric locomotives. The complexity and variability of the operating environment often cause difficulties for one or some traction motors to output the distributed traction torque, which requires the redistribution of the torque output of multimotors to maintain the total traction torque of all motors at a given constant. To this end, a multimotors coordination control method was proposed for consistent total traction torque of electric locomotives. Through this approach, a traction torque-coordinated control structure was constructed on the basis of energy minimisation with an optimal dynamic adjustment mode. The sliding mode tracking control was developed for each independent motor to improve its dynamic response performance. A simulation verification of motors fault types in two different cases was conducted. The results showed that the proposed method could track the total traction torque in a short time, and the system fluctuations in independent motor coordination process were very small.
Smartphone Applications for Period Tracking: Rating and Behavioral Change among Women Users
Authors: Karasneh Reema A. , Al-Azzam Sayer I. , Alzoubi Karem H. , Muflih Suhaib M. , Hawamdeh Sahar S.
Published: September 2020

Background. The use of mobile apps for health and well-being has grown exponentially in the last decade, as such apps were reported to be ideal platforms for behavioral change and symptoms monitoring and management. Objective. This study aimed to systematically review period tracking applications available at Google Play and Apple App Stores and determine the presence, features, and quality of these smartphone apps. In addition, behavioral changes associated with the top 5 rated apps were assessed. Methods. This study used the Systematic Search Criteria through Google Play Store and iTunes Apple Store, using terms related to period tracking. Apps were scanned for matching the inclusion criteria and the included apps were assessed by two reviewers using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS), a tool that was developed for classifying and assessing the quality of mHealth apps. Results. Forty-nine apps met the inclusion criteria. Most of the apps enabled setting user goals, motivations, and interactivity, tracking multiple symptoms or mood changes, allowed notifications, and used graphs to illustrate the tracking result over a specific period of time. The majority of features and functions within these apps were offered for free, while some apps included limited in-app purchases or needed Internet connection to function. Certain apps were reported by participants to promote behavioral change and increase knowledge and awareness regarding monthly periods. Conclusions. Period tracking apps were easy to use and navigate and can hence be readily adopted into routine tracking and management of periods. However, most apps were not based on significant evidence and may need further development to support period-related symptom management.
Bilateral Basal Ganglion Hemorrhage after Severe Olanzapine Intoxication
Authors: Schweyer Kerstin , Fatke Bastian , Kreiser Kornelia , Rabe Christian , Seifert Christian , Ikenberg Benno
Published: September 2020

Olanzapine is a second-generation antipsychotic drug which is generally considered safe with well therapeutic antipsychotic effects. We describe a patient suffering from bilateral intracerebral hemorrhage after severe olanzapine intoxication without underlying thrombocytopenia, arterial hypertension, or vascular malformation as cause of intracerebral hemorrhage. This raises the possibility of a direct side effect of high-dose olanzapine intake. So far, intracranial hemorrhage after olanzapine intoxication in such constellation has not been reported before. Given the high number of its prescription rates, our finding of intracranial hemorrhage after olanzapine intoxication is of high clinical relevance.
Fixed Point Theorems for Generalized Set-Valued Weak θ-Contractions in Complete Metric Spaces
Authors: Cho Seong-Hoon
Published: September 2020

In this paper, the notion of generalized set-valued weak θ-contractions is introduced and a new fixed point theorem for such contractions is established in the setting metric spaces. The main result is a generalization of fixed point theorems in the literature. An example and an application to generalized differential equation are given to support the validity of the main theorem.
Application of Composite Method for Determining Fault Location on Electrical Power Distribution Lines
Authors: Okoli Chinweike , Anyaka Boniface , Nwokedi Chidiogo , Anya Victor
Published: September 2020

Distribution line is one of the most important components of the distribution system. Troubleshooting faults on these lines are often a tedious task requiring service vehicles and personnel moving from one place to another in order to locate the fault and fix the problem. The study, therefore, is on how a composite fault location technique can be applied to predict the location of faults on the distribution lines. The calculations for the estimation of the fault location are performed using one terminal voltage and current data of the distribution line. A composite method that combines the impedance-based method and the fuzzy inference system method is used in the fault location algorithm. The presented algorithm has been extensively tested using the MATLAB-Simulink model of a 33 KV 40-kilometer distribution line. The simulation result demonstrates good accuracy and robustness of the algorithm.
lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 Exacerbates As2O3-Induced Oxidative Damage in Bladder Cancer via miR-6734-5p-Mediated Functional Inhibition of IDH2
Authors: Wang Yutong , Yang Tianyao , Han Yanshou , Ren Zhaozhou , Zou Jiayun , Liu Jieyu , Xi Shuhua
Published: September 2020

Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) is a promising effective chemotherapeutic agent for cancer treatment; however, how and through what molecular mechanisms the oxidative damage of As2O3 is controlled remains poorly understood. Recently, the involvement of dysregulated long noncoding RNA ovarian tumor domain containing 6B antisense RNA1 (lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1) in tumorigenesis is established. Here, for the first time, we characterize the regulation of As2O3 in the oxidative damage against bladder cancer via lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1. As2O3 could activate lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 transcription in bladder cancer cells, and these findings were validated in a xenograft tumor model. Functional assays showed that lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 dramatically exacerbated As2O3-mediated oxidative damage by inducing oxidative stress. Mechanistically, As2O3 increased levels of metal-regulatory transcription factor 1 (MTF1), which regulates lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1, in response to oxidative stress. Further, lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 inhibited mitochondrial NADP+-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 (IDH2) expression by stabilizing miR-6734-5p, which contributed to cytotoxicity by enhancing oxidative stress. Together, our findings offer new insights into the mechanism of As2O3-induced oxidative damage and identify important factors in the pathway, As2O3/lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1/miR-6734-5p/IDH2, expanding the knowledge of activity of As2O3 as cancer treatment.
Neurocognitive Functioning among Children with Sickle Cell Anemia Attending SCA Clinic at MNH, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Matondo Limi O. , Kija Edward , Manji Karim P.
Published: September 2020

Background. Children with sickle cell anemia are at a higher risk of developing neurological sequelae like abnormal intellectual functioning, poor academic performance, abnormal fine motor functioning, and attentional deficits. There is a paucity of data about neurocognitive impairment among children with sickle cell anemia in Tanzania. Recognition of the magnitude of neurocognitive impairment will help to provide insight in the causative as well as preventive aspects of the same. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the prevalence and factors associated with neurocognitive impairment in children with sickle cell anemia. Methods. This is a cross-sectional comparative study between children with SCA and a control group of the hemoglobin AA sibling. It was carried out in Muhimbili National Hospital during a five-month period. The Rey–Osterrieth Complex Figure test (ROCF) which is used to test memory and visual special functions and KOH block design tools that have been previously validated through another study locally were used. Additional information on demographic characteristics was also collected using a predetermined questionnaire. Proportions and comparisons of means were used to examine associations between neurocognitive impairment and independent variables for associated factors. Results. A total of 313 children were included in the final analysis. Among all the participants, the majority of the participants in the sickle cell group were of the age group 14-15 years (45.9%). In the comparison group, the majority were of the age group 9-10 years (43.8%). The neurocognitive scores in children with sickle cell anemia were significantly different from the normal siblings. In the copy ROCF, the neurocognitive function in SCA participants was 68.2% below the mean as compared to 45% of their counterparts, p≤0.001. Additionally, there was no difference in memory in children with SCA compared to normal siblings (14.8% vs. 12.5%, respectively, p=0.606). Children with SCA had a higher proportion of impaired IQ (85.4%) as compared to children without SCA (72.5%), and the difference was statistically significant, p=0.009. Factors associated with neurocognitive impairment were age above 13 years, BMI, and absenteeism from school. Conclusion and Recommendation. Children with SCA had more impairment in terms of copying and IQ. We recommend assessment at the younger age group, increased sample size in future studies, and long-term cohort follow-up.
Results on Solutions for Several q-Painlevé Difference Equations concerning Rational Solutions, Zeros, and Poles
Authors: Li Bu Sheng , Ying Rui , Zheng Xiu Min , Xu Hong Yan
Published: September 2020

In this article, we discuss the problem about the properties on solutions for several types of q-difference equations and obtain some results on the exceptional values of transcendental meromorphic solutions fz with zero order, their q-differences Δqfz=fqz−fz, and divided differences Δqfz/fz. In addition, we also investigated the condition on the existence of rational solution for a class of q-difference equations. Our theorems are some extensions and supplement to those results given by Liu and Zhang and Qi and Yang.
Oxidative Stress: A Possible Trigger for Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Authors: Marcu Radu Dragos , Mischianu Dan Liviu Dorel , Iorga Lucian , Diaconu Camelia Cristina , Surcel Mihaela , Munteanu Adriana Narcisa , Constantin Carolina , Isvoranu Gheorghita , Bratu Ovidiu Gabriel
Published: September 2020

Pelvic organ prolapse is a frequent health problem in women, encountered worldwide, its physiopathology being still incompletely understood. The integrity of the pelvic-supportive structures is a key element that prevents the prolapse of the pelvic organs. Numerous researchers have underlined the role of connective tissue molecular changes in the pathogenesis of pelvic organ prolapse and have raised the attention upon oxidative stress as an important element involved in its appearance. The advancements made over the years in terms of molecular biology have allowed researchers to investigate how the constituent elements of the pelvic-supportive structures react in conditions of oxidative stress. The purpose of this paper is to underline the importance of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of pelvic organ prolapse, as well as to highlight the main oxidative stress molecular changes that appear at the level of the pelvic-supportive structures. Sustained mechanical stress is proven to be a key factor in the appearance of pelvic organ prolapse, correlating with increased levels of free radicals production and mitochondrial-induced fibroblasts apoptosis, the rate of cellular apoptosis depending on the intensity of the mechanical stress, and the period of time the mechanical stress is applied. Oxidative stress hinders normal cellular signaling pathways, as well as different important cellular components like proteins, lipids, and cellular DNA, therefore significantly interfering with the process of collagen and elastin synthesis.
Studies on Key Effect Factors of Natural Circulation Characteristics for Advanced PWR Reactor Cavity Flooding System
Authors: Zhan Dekui , Zhao Xinhai , Xia Shaoxiong , Chen Peng , Chen Huandong
Published: September 2020

In order to enhance the ability of severe accident mitigation for Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR), different kinds of severe accident mitigation strategies have been proposed. In-Vessel Retention (IVR) is one of the important severe accident management means by External Reactor Vessel Cooling. Reactor cavity would be submerged to cool the molten corium when a severe accident happens. The success criterion of IVR strategy is that the heat flux which transfers from the corium pool must be lower than the local critical heat flux (CHF) of the reactor pressure vessel (RPV) outside wall and the residual thickness of the RPV wall can maintain the integrity. The residual thickness of RPV is determined by the heat flux transfer from the corium pool and the cooling capability of outer wall of the RPV. There are various factors which would influence the CHF and the cooling capability of outer wall of the RPV. In order to verify the optimized design which is beneficial to the heat transfer and the natural circulation outside the actual reactor vessel, a large-scale Reactor Vessel External Cooling Test (REVECT) facility has been built. A large number of sensitivity tests were carried out, to study how these sensitivity factors affect CHF value and natural circulation. Based on the test results, the structure of the test section flow channel has an obvious effect on the CHF distribution. The flow channel optimized can effectively enhance the CHF value, especially to enhance the CHF value near the “heat focus” region of the molten pool. The water level in the reactor pit has also a great impact on the natural circulation flow. Although natural circulation can be maintained with a low water level, it will lead to a decrease of the cooling capacity. Meanwhile, some noteworthy test phenomena have been found, which are also essential for the design of the reactor pit flooding system.
Blood Pressure Variability during Angiography in Patients with Ischemic Stroke and Intracranial Artery Stenosis
Authors: Pan Hui , Zhao Rong , Liu Feng-Di , Wu Yi-Lan , Li Ge-Fei , Shi Yan-Hui , Liu Yi-Sheng , Zhao Ying , Zhuang Mei-Ting , Hou Tian-Yu , Zhang Qi-Ting , Yao Qian , Qiao Yuan , Huang Rui-Jue , Chen Li-Na , Zhu Yi-Min , Shu Liang , Su Jing-Jing , Fang Jie , Tang Xue-Mei , Wang Shuo , Cui Guo-Hong , Wang David Z. , Liu Jian-Ren
Published: September 2020

Our aim was to investigate factors predicting blood pressure (BP) variability during diagnostic cerebral angiography and associations between BP variability and clinical outcomes in patients with acute and subacute ischemic stroke and intracranial artery stenosis. 114 patients with ischemic stroke and intracranial artery stenosis (stenosis rate >50%) were recruited. Patients who underwent cerebral angiography within 3 days and 3–14 days of disease onset are referred to be Group A and Group S, respectively. BP variability in Group A was defined as the coefficient of variance (CV) of BP. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to identify predictors of CV of BP and associations between CV of BP and clinical outcomes at discharge. In Group A patients, advanced age was associated with increased CV of SBP and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and antihypertensive use was associated with lower CV of SBP. Male was associated with lower CV of DBP. In Group S, higher CV of SBP was associated with hypertension and antihypertensive use. Males had lower CV of SBP than females. The calcium channel blocker was associated with lower CV of DBP. Higher scores of the Stroke Scale at admission were significantly associated with poor clinical outcomes for both groups, while BP variability was not. Factors associated with BP variability are significantly different between stroke patients undergoing angiography within 3 days vs. 3–14 days after disease onset. BP variability is not significantly associated with clinical outcomes at discharge.
On Fuzzy Deductive Systems of Hilbert Algebras
Authors: Addis Gezahagne Mulat , Engidaw Derso Abeje
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we study fuzzy deductive systems of Hilbert algebras whose truth values are in a complete lattice satisfying the infinite meet distributive law. Several characterizations are obtained for fuzzy deductive systems generated by a fuzzy set. It is also proved that the class of all fuzzy deductive systems of a Hilbert algebra forms an algebraic closure fuzzy set system. Furthermore, we obtain a lattice isomorphism between the class of fuzzy deductive systems and the class of fuzzy congruence relations in the variety of Hilbert algebras.