bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speed Tracking and Synchronization of a Multimotor System Based on Fuzzy ADRC and Enhanced Adjacent Coupling Scheme
Authors: Tao Liang , Chen Qiang , Nan Yurong , Dong Fang , Jin Yan
Published: September 2018

In this paper, a speed tracking and synchronization control approach is proposed for a multimotor system based on fuzzy active disturbance rejection control (FADRC) and enhanced adjacent coupling scheme. By employing fuzzy logic rules to adjust the coefficients of the extended state observer (ESO), FADRC is presented to guarantee the speed tracking performance and enhance the system robustness against external disturbance and parametric variations. Moreover, an enhanced adjacent coupling synchronization control strategy is proposed to simplify the structure of the speed synchronization controller through introducing coupling coefficients into the conventional adjacent coupling approach. Based on the proposed synchronization control scheme, an adaptive integral sliding mode control (AISMC) is investigated such that the chattering problem in conventional sliding mode control can be weakened by designing an adaptive estimation law of the control gain. Comparative simulations are carried out to prove the superiorities of the proposed method.
Preparation of Porous Materials by Magnesium Phosphate Cement with High Permeability
Authors: Zhenyu Lai , Yang Hu , Xiaojie Fu , Zhongyuan Lu , Shuzhen Lv
Published: September 2018

High permeability and strength magnesium phosphate cement (MPC) with porosity, average pore size, and compressive strength varied from 63.2% to 74%, 138.7 μm to 284.7 μm and 2.3 MPa to 4.7 MPa, respectively, were successfully prepared by combining the physical foaming method and chemically entrained gas method at room temperature. The effects of borax content, chemical foaming agent content, zinc powder content and W/S ratio on the porosity, pore size distribution, compressive strength, and permeability of the MPC were investigated. The results indicate that the chemical foaming agent content tends to have little impact on the porosity and compressive strength, and the zinc powder content has the most significant influence on the average pore size of MPC. The air pores distribution and connectivity of MPC were mainly controlled by the borax content, W/S ratio, and chemical foaming agent content. Zinc powder played a destructive role in the pores formed by the early physical foaming and led to an increase in pore size and a large number of through pores, which increased the permeability of the materials.
The Improved Combination Rule of D Numbers and Its Application in Radiation Source Identification
Authors: Guan Xin , Liu Haiqiao , Yi Xiao , Zhao Jing
Published: September 2018

The D numbers theory is a novel theory to express uncertain information. It successfully overcomes some shortcomings of Dempster-Shafer theory, such as the conditions of exclusiveness hypothesis and completeness constraint. However, the combination rule of D numbers does not satisfy the associative property, which leads to limitations in practical application for D numbers. In this paper, the improved D numbers theory is proposed to overcome the weakness based on the analysis of D numbers’ combination rule. A new algorithm is constructed with the strict proof to simplify the combination rule. The similarities and differences among DS theory, D numbers, and the improved D numbers are introduced with the numerical analysis. An illustrative example of the radiation source identification is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the improved method.
Speech Enhancement Control Design Algorithm for Dual‐Microphone Systems Using β‐NMF in a Complex Environment
Authors: Wang Dong-xia , Jiang Mao-song , Niu Fang-lin , Cao Yu-dong , Zhou Cheng-xu
Published: September 2018

Single‐microphone speech enhancement algorithms by using nonnegative matrix factorization can only utilize the temporal and spectral diversity of the received signal, making the performance of the noise suppression degrade rapidly in a complex environment. Microphone arrays have spatial selection and high signal gain, so it applies to the adverse noise conditions. In this paper, we present a new algorithm for speech enhancement based on two microphones with nonnegative matrix factorization. The interchannel characteristic of each nonnegative matrix factorization basis can be modeled by the adopted method, such as the amplitude ratios and the phase differences between channels. The results of the experiment confirm that the proposed algorithm is superior to other dual‐microphone speech enhancement algorithms.
Supervised Learning for Suicidal Ideation Detection in Online User Content
Authors: Ji Shaoxiong , Yu Celina Ping , Fung Sai-fu , Pan Shirui , Long Guodong
Published: September 2018

Early detection and treatment are regarded as the most effective ways to prevent suicidal ideation and potential suicide attempts—two critical risk factors resulting in successful suicides. Online communication channels are becoming a new way for people to express their suicidal tendencies. This paper presents an approach to understand suicidal ideation through online user‐generated content with the goal of early detection via supervised learning. Analysing users’ language preferences and topic descriptions reveals rich knowledge that can be used as an early warning system for detecting suicidal tendencies. Suicidal individuals express strong negative feelings, anxiety, and hopelessness. Suicidal thoughts may involve family and friends. And topics they discuss cover both personal and social issues. To detect suicidal ideation, we extract several informative sets of features, including statistical, syntactic, linguistic, word embedding, and topic features, and we compare six classifiers, including four traditional supervised classifiers and two neural network models. An experimental study demonstrates the feasibility and practicability of the approach and provides benchmarks for the suicidal ideation detection on the active online platforms: Reddit SuicideWatch and Twitter.
Synthesis of Wollastonite Powders by Combustion Method: Role of Amount of Fuel
Authors: Nascimento Imarally V. de S. R. , Barbosa Willams T. , Carrodeguas Raúl G. , Fook Marcus V. L. , Rodríguez Miguel A.
Published: September 2018

The objective of this work has been the synthesis of wollastonite by solution combustion method. The novelty of this work has been obtaining the crystalline phase without the need of thermal treatments after the synthesis. For this purpose, urea was used as fuel. Calcium nitrate was selected as a source of calcium and colloidal silica served as a source of silicon. The effect of the amount of fuel on the combustion process was investigated. Temperature of the combustion reaction was followed by digital pyrometry. The obtained products were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and specific surface area. The results showed that the combustion synthesis provides nanostructured powders characterized by a high surface area. When excess of urea was used, wollastonite-2M was obtained with a submicronic structure.
Primary Hyperparathyroidism due to Parathyroid Adenoma Originated from Supernumerary Gland
Authors: Mendoza-Moreno Fernando , Rodriguez-Pascual Ángel , Díez-Gago María Rocío , Pérez-González Marina , Jiménez‐Alvárez Laura , Furtado-Lobo Isabel , Díez‐Alonso Manuel , Noguerales-Fraguas Fernando
Published: September 2018

Introduction. The variability of the location of the parathyroid glands is directly related to the events that occur during embryonic development. The impact that an individual submits more than four parathyroid glands is close to 13%. However the presentation of a parathyroid adenoma in a supernumerary gland is an uncommon event. Case report. A 30-year-old man diagnosed with primary hyperparathyroidism with matching findings on ultrasonography and scintigraphy for parathyroid adenoma localization lower left regarding the thyroid gland. A cervicotomy explorer showed four orthotopic parathyroid glands. The biopsy of the inferior left gland was normal. No signs of adenoma were seen in the biopsy. Following mobilization of the ipsilateral thyroid lobe, fifth parathyroid gland was found increased significantly in size than proceeded to remove, confirming the diagnosis of adenoma. After the excision, the levels of serum calcium and parathyroid hormone were normalized. Conclusions. The presentation of a parathyroid adenoma in a supernumerary gland is a challenge for the surgeon. The high sensitivity having different imaging techniques has been a key to locate preoperatively the pathological parathyroid gland. Analytical or clinical persistence of primary hyperparathyroidism after parathyroid surgery can occur if the location of the adenoma is a supernumerary or ectopic gland location.
Confocal Microscopy Predicts the Risk of Recurrence and Malignant Transformation of Mucocutaneous Neurofibromas in NF-1: An Observational Study
Authors: Giudice Giuseppe , Favia Giorgio , Tempesta Angela , Limongelli Luisa , Vestita Michelangelo
Published: September 2018

From 2005 to 2010, 20 consecutive patients with fully manifested neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) underwent elective neurofibroma resection at our institution (Departments of Plastic Surgery and of Odontostomatology). Specimens were photographed under optical microscope and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) with ultra-high accuracy of detail, including depth of field. Patients were followed up for a minimum of 4 years and up to a maximum of 12 years, postsurgery. While all nonrecurring lesions showed intense fluorescence, six of the seven lesions with absence of fluorescence under CLSM recurred at a mean of 5.5 years after surgical excision. Among the re-excised lesions, 3 were diagnosed as malignant at the subsequent removal. Despite the limitation of a small cohort, CLSM appears to be a simple and low-cost technique to differentiate forms of neurofibromas with low and high risk of recurrence and malignant degeneration.
D-Mannose Enhanced Immunomodulation of Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells via Inhibiting IL-6 Secretion
Authors: Guo Lijia , Hou Yanan , Song Liang , Zhu Siying , Lin Feiran , Bai Yuxing
Published: September 2018

Periodontal ligament stem cell- (PDLSC-) mediated periodontal tissue regeneration has recently been proposed for the new therapeutic method to regenerate lost alveolar bone and periodontal ligament. It was reported that both autogenic and allogeneic PDLSCs could reconstruct damaged periodontal tissues but the regeneration effects were not consistent. The effective methods to improve the properties of PDLSCs should be further considered. In this study, we investigated if D-mannose could affect the immunomodulatory properties of hPDLSCs. After being pretreated with D-mannose, hPDLSCs could inhibit T cell proliferation and affect T cell differentiation into Treg cells. We found that less IL-6 could be detected in D-mannose-pretreated hPDLSCs. In the D-mannose pretreatment group, induced Treg cell number would decrease if increased IL-6 levels could be detected. Our data uncovered a previously unrecognized function of D-mannose to regulate the immunomodulatory function of PDLSCs and that IL-6 might play a key role in this process. The results provided a property method to improve PDLSC-based periodontal regeneration.
A Fog Computing Security: 2‐Adic Complexity of Balanced Sequences
Authors: Hui-Juan Wang , Yong Jiang
Published: September 2018

In the fog computing environment, the periodic sequence can provide sufficient authentication code and also reduce the power consumption in the verification. But the periodic sequence faces a known full‐cycle attack threat in fog computing. This paper studies the 2‐adic complexity attack ability of the periodic balance sequence in the fog computing environment. It uses the exponential function as a new approach to study the 2‐adic properties of periodic balance sequence and presents that the 2‐adic complexity of the periodic balanced sequence is not an attacking threat when used in fog computing.
Effects of 1-Methylcyclopropene Treatment on Physicochemical Attributes of “Hai Jiang” Yardlong Bean during Cold Storage
Authors: Jiang Zitao , Zeng Jiaoke , Zheng Yunke , Tang Hong , Li Wen
Published: September 2018

The yardlong bean belongs to nonclimacteric fruit. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatment on physicochemical characteristics of yardlong beans during cold storage. Freshly harvested yardlong beans were treated with different concentrations of 1-MCP (0, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25, and 1.5 μL ·L−1) and stored at 8°C for 21 days. The results showed that, compared with the control, the decrease in firmness and good fruit rate and the degradation of chlorophyll and vitamin C (Vc) content could be inhibited, change in skin color could be delayed, activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) could be improved, and the increasing of malondialdehyde (MDA) content and weight loss could be inhibited significantly by 1-MCP treatments. Of the different concentrations of 1-MCP, 1.0 μL·L−1 proved to have the best preservative effects, extending storage time and delaying ripening and senescence of yardlong beans. These results indicated that 1-MCP treatment provided an effective method for delaying the postharvest senescence of fresh yardlong beans.
Targeted Photodynamic Therapy: A Novel Approach to Abolition of Human Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Crous Anine , Chizenga Elvin , Hodgkinson Natasha , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: September 2018

Cancer is a global burden that has prompted extensive research into prevention and treatment, over many decades. Scientific studies have shown that subset of cells within a tumour, known as cancer stem cells (CSCs), are responsible for tumourigenesis, metastasis, drug resistance, and recurrences. CSCs have characteristic features of enhanced self-renewal, proliferation, and limited but multidirectional differentiation capacity. The discovery of CSCs has initiated extensive research into novel cancer treatment regimes. Evidence indicates that CSCs are resistant to conventional chemo- and radiation therapy leading to treatment failures, cancer metastasis, secondary cancer formation, and relapse. Because of the observed phenomena in the course of cancer prognosis, a need for treatment modalities targeting CSCs is important. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a clinically approved, minimally invasive, therapeutic procedure that can exert a selective cytotoxic activity toward cancerous cells while reducing toxicity to normal cells. It uses a photosensitizer (PS) that becomes excited when subjected to light at a specific wavelength, and the PS forms reactive oxygen species (ROS) killing malignant cells. Currently, PDT is being investigated as a target specific treatment for CSCs by the addition of carrier molecules and antibody conjugates bound to the PS. Targeted PDT (TPDT) may be able to not only eradicate the tumour mass but kill CSCs as well.
Concurrent Diagnosis of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia and Follicular Lymphoma: An Unreported Presentation
Authors: Starr Amy G. , Jonna Sushma R. , Chahine Joeffrey J. , Kallakury Bhaskar V. , Ujjani Chaitra S.
Published: September 2018

Lymphadenopathy in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is usually due to extramedullary involvement with accelerated or blast phases of the disease. The occurrence of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) as a synchronous malignancy with CML is rare. We report a case of a 73-year-old male who presented with dyspnea and right-sided lower extremity edema in the setting of leukocytosis. Bone marrow evaluation indicated a chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), confirmed by molecular testing. Imaging of the chest for persistent dyspnea revealed supraclavicular and mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Biopsy of the cervical node showed expanded lymphoid follicles with atypical germinal centers that were positive for CD10, BCL-2, and BCL-6, consistent with follicular lymphoma (FL). Nodal PCR demonstrated clonal IGH and IGK gene rearrangements, and FISH analysis was positive for IGH-BCL-2 fusion. Together, these tests supported the diagnosis of FL. Additionally, the lymph node showed paracortical expansion by maturing pan-hematopoietic elements, no blastic groups, and positive RT-PCR analysis for BCR-ABL1, indicating concomitant involvement by chronic phase-CML. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a patient with a concurrent diagnosis of CML and FL.
Telemedical Coaching Improves Long-Term Weight Loss in Overweight Persons: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kempf Kerstin , Röhling Martin , Stichert Monika , Fischer Gabriele , Boschem Elke , Könner Jürgen , Martin Stephan
Published: September 2018

Background. Lifestyle interventions have shown to be effective when continuous personal support was provided. However, there is lack of knowledge whether a telemedical-approach with personal coaching contributes to long-term weight losses in overweight employees. We, therefore, tested the hypothesis that telemedical-based lifestyle interventions accompanied with telemedical coaching lead to larger weight losses in overweight persons in an occupational health care setting. Methods. Overweight employees (n=180) with a body mass index (BMI) of >27 kg/m2 were randomized into either a telemedical (TM) group (n=61), a telemedical coaching (TMC) group (n=58), or a control group (n=61). Both intervention groups were equipped with scales and pedometers automatically transferring the data into a personalized online portal, which could be monitored from participants and coaches. Participants of the TMC group received additionally one motivational care call per week by mental coaches to discuss the current data (current weight and steps) and achieving goals such as a healthy lifestyle or weight reduction. The control group remained in routine care. Clinical and anthropometric data were determined after the 12-week intervention. Additionally, weight change was followed up after 12 months. Results. Participants of TMC (-3.1 ± 4.8 kg, p<0.0001) and TM group (-1.9 ± 4.0 kg; p=0.0012) significantly reduced weight and sustained it during the 1-year follow-up, while the control group showed no change. Compared to the control group only weight loss in the TMC group was significantly different (p<0.001) after 12 months. TMC and TM group also reduced BMI, waist circumference, and LDL cholesterol. Moreover, TMC group improved additionally systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and HbA1c. Conclusions. Telemedical devices in combination with telemedical coaching lead to significant long-term weight reductions in overweight persons in an occupational health care setting. This study is registered with NCT01868763, ClinicalTrials.gov.
Electric Power Steering System Control Strategy Based on Robust H∞ Control for Electric Forklift
Authors: Jiang Zhizheng , Xiao Benxian
Published: September 2018

The dynamic model of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system for electric forklifts and the two-degree-of-freedom (2DOF) forklift models has been established. Based on the control target of electric forklift EPS, a generalized EPS control model with model perturbation and interference is established. The standard H∞control model of the EPS system is transformed, and the EPS generalized state equation of electric forklift is derived. The principle of robust control with genetic optimization is expounded, aiming at the parameters optimization of the weighted function of H∞control model, the constraint function of the genetic algorithm (GA) is constructed, and the robust controller of genetic optimization is derived. Taking the electric forklift TFC20 as the research object, according to the actual data on the forklift, the system model is established in MATLAB, and the effects of PID control, robust control, and genetic robust control are compared, the results show that the power steering characteristic of the robust control is better than the power steering characteristic of the PID control, and the stability of the forklift under the control of robust control is better. Also, the power steering characteristic of the H∞ controller with GA optimization is better than that of an unoptimized one, and its robustness is better, under external pavement interference, the following ability is stronger for the ideal current and the steering is more stable.
Burkholderia cepacia complexCervical Osteomyelitis in an Intravenous Drug User
Authors: Li Sui Kwong , Messer William B.
Published: September 2018

Gram-negative vertebral osteomyelitis infections are increasing due to rising intravenous drug use but overall remain uncommon. Here, we present a case ofBurkholderia cepacia complexcervical osteomyelitis in an intravenous drug user.Burkholderia cepaciacomplexvertebral osteomyelitis has been infrequently described in the literature thus far with varied antibiotic treatment regimens. A 68-year-old male presented to the emergency department with neck pain after minor trauma. He endorsed active intravenous heroin and methamphetamine use. CT and MRI imaging of the cervical spine revealed destructive changes of C5-C6 vertebral bodies consistent with osteomyelitis. Neurological exam was stable and vital signs were within normal limits; so, antibiotics were held, and he was admitted for diagnostic evaluation. Five sets of blood cultures were drawn on admission and were ultimately negative. He subsequently underwent C5-C6 corpectomy, C4-C7 anterior fusion, and C3-T1 posterior fusion with allograft placement. Deep operative tissue cultures grewBurkholderia cepacia complex. He was treated with 6 weeks of intravenous ceftazidime followed by indefinite oral minocycline due to hardware placement.Burkholderia cepacia complexshould be considered among pathogenic etiologies of pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis, particularly among patients with intravenous drug use. Ceftazidime monotherapy was an effective treatment in this particular case.
Ozone Therapy as Adjuvant for Cancer Treatment: Is Further Research Warranted?
Authors: Clavo Bernardino , Santana-Rodríguez Norberto , Llontop Pedro , Gutiérrez Dominga , Suárez Gerardo , López Laura , Rovira Gloria , Martínez-Sánchez Gregorio , González Esteban , Jorge Ignacio J. , Perera Carmen , Blanco Jesús , Rodríguez-Esparragón Francisco
Published: September 2018

Introduction. This article provides an overview of the potential use of ozone as an adjuvant during cancer treatment. Methods. We summarize the findings of the most relevant publications focused on this goal, and we include our related clinical experience. Results. Over several decades, prestigious journals have published in vitro studies on the capacity of ozone to induce direct damage on tumor cells and, as well, to enhance the effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Indirect effects have been demonstrated in animal models: immune modulation by ozone alone and sensitizing effect of radiotherapy by concurrent ozone administration. The effects of ozone in modifying hemoglobin dissociation curve, 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate levels, locoregional blood flow, and tumor hypoxia provide additional support for potential beneficial effects during cancer treatment. Unfortunately, only a few clinical studies are available. Finally, we describe some works and our experience supporting the potential role of local ozone therapy in treating delayed healing after tumor resection, to avoid delays in commencing radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Conclusions. In vitro and animal studies, as well as isolated clinical reports, suggest the potential role of ozone as an adjuvant during radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. However, further research, such as randomized clinical trials, is required to demonstrate its potential usefulness as an adjuvant therapeutic tool.
Numerical and Experimental Investigation of Novel Blended Bifurcated Stent Grafts with Taper to Improve Hemodynamic Performance
Authors: Liu Ming , Wang Zhenze , Sun Anqiang , Deng Xiaoyan
Published: September 2018

The typical helical flow within the human arterial system is widely used when designing cardiovascular devices, as this helical flow can be generated using the “crossed limbs” strategy of the bifurcated stent graft (BSG) and enhanced by the tapered structure of arteries. Here, we propose the use of a deflected blended bifurcated stent graft (BBSG) with various tapers, using conventional blended BSGs with the same degree of taper as a comparison. Hemodynamic performances, including helical strength and wall shear stress- (WSS-) based indicators, were assessed. Displacement forces that may induce stent-graft migration were assessed using numerical simulations and in vitro experiments. The results showed that as the taper increased, the displacement force, helicity strength, and time-averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS) within the iliac grafts increased, whereas the oscillating shear index (OSI) and relative residence time (RRT) gradually decreased for both types of BBSGs. With identical tapers, deflected BBSGs, compared to conventional BBSGs, exhibited a wider helical structure and lower RRT on the iliac graft and lower displacement force; however, there were no differences in hemodynamic indicators. In summary, the presence of tapering facilitated helical flow and produced better hemodynamic performance but posed a higher risk of graft migration. Conventional and deflected BBSGs with taper might be the two optimal configurations for endovascular aneurysm repair, given the helical flow. The deflected BBSG provides a better configuration, compared to the conventional BBSG, when considering the reduction of migration risk.
Stress Oximetry: Description of a Test to Determine Readiness for Discontinuing Oxygen Therapy in Infants with Chronic Lung Disease
Authors: Hussain Naveed , Schwenn Janet , Trzaski Jennifer , Pappagallo Mariann
Published: September 2018

Background. In infants with CLD there are no objective tests to monitor an infant’s progress towards weaning out of oxygen inhalation therapy (O2IT). A test involving staged maneuvers of increasing respiratory stress while decreasing oxygen support, termed Stress Oximetry (StressOx), has been used at our center for weaning O2IT.Objective. To report the clinical utility of “StressOx” in evaluating readiness for discontinuing O2IT in infants with CLD.Methods. A retrospective review was done of StressOx tests administered at our center from 2002-2008. StressOx was performed based on a consistent clinical protocol in all eligible infants on O2IT. O2IT was generally discontinued after infant had passed two StressOx tests and subsequently infants were monitored for a minimum of 7 days to determine successful weaning.Results. There were 279 infants with 899 tests that met inclusion criteria. An average of 3 tests per infant was done, one week apart. The test had a specificity of 97.4% and a positive predictive value of 99.6% in determining success of discontinuing O2IT.Conclusions. StressOx appears to be a clinically useful test that may help in determining an infant’s ability to successfully wean out of O2IT. Further validation of this test is warranted.
Ultrasound Assessment of Changes in Nails in Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Krajewska-Włodarczyk Magdalena , Owczarczyk-Saczonek Agnieszka , Placek Waldemar , Wojtkiewicz Maja , Wiktorowicz Andrzej , Wojtkiewicz Joanna
Published: September 2018

Aim of the Study. The aim of the study was to conduct an ultrasound (US) assessment of changes in fingernails in psoriatic patients with nail involvement. Material. A total of 69 patients with psoriatic changes in nails participated in the study, including 38 patients with psoriasis (Ps) and 31 with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and 30 people in the control group. A total of 988 nails were examined. Results. The thickness of the nail plate, nail bed, and matrix as shown in an ultrasound examination increased with the mNAPSI index (r=0.328, p=0.021; r=0.219, p=0.036; and r=0.422, p=0.011, respectively). The thickness of nail plate, bed, and matrix in patients with onycholysis and hyperkeratosis-type changes (concomitant or present separately) was significantly greater than when only pitting-type changes occurred (p=0.007, p=0.035, and p=0.023, respectively). An examination of nails with only pitting-type changes showed an increase in the matrix thickness compared to the control group (p=0.018). The focal hyperechoic involvement of the dorsal plate (80%) was the change most often observed in an US examination in Ps patients, whereas loosening of the borders of the ventral plate was most often observed in PsA patients. The thickness of nail bed in PsA patients increased with the duration of arthritis (r=0.399, p=0.022) and was correlated with the number of swollen digits (r=0.278, p=0.041). Conclusions. The findings of this study may indicate an association of an inflammation in the nail bed with PsA development. Apart from a direct assessment of the described morphological changes of nails, a US examination could prove useful in an assessment of intensity of a local inflammation as a prognostic factor for PsA development.
A Lab‐Scale Experiment Approach to the Measurement of Wall Pressure from Near‐Field under Water Explosions by a Hopkinson Bar
Authors: Cui Xiongwei , Yao Xiongliang , Chen Yingyu
Published: September 2018

Direct measurement of the wall pressure loading subjected to the near‐field underwater explosion is of great difficulty. In this article, an improved methodology and a lab‐scale experimental system are proposed and manufactured to assess the wall pressure loading. In the methodology, a Hopkinson bar (HPB), used as the sensing element, is inserted through the hole drilled on the target plate and the bar’s end face lies flush with the loaded face of the target plate to detect and record the pressure loading. Furthermore, two improvements have been made on this methodology to measure the wall pressure loading from a near‐field underwater explosion. The first one is some waterproof units added to make it suitable for the underwater environment. The second one is a hard rubber cylinder placed at the distal end, and a pair of ropes taped on the HPB is used to pull the HPB against the cylinder hard to ensure the HPB’s end face flushes with loaded face of the target plate during the bubble collapse. To validate the pressure measurement technique based on the HPB, an underwater explosion between two parallelly mounted circular target plates is used as the validating system. Based on the assumption that the shock wave pressure profiles at the two points on the two plates which are symmetrical to each other about the middle plane of symmetry are the same, it was found that the pressure obtained by the HPB was in excellent agreement with pressure transducer measurements, thus validating the proposed technique. To verify the capability of this improved methodology and experimental system, a series of minicharge underwater explosion experiments are conducted. From the recorded pressure‐time profiles coupled with the underwater explosion evolution images captured by the HSV camera, the shock wave pressure loading and bubble‐jet pressure loadings are captured in detail at 5  mm, 10  mm, …, 30  mm stand‐off distances. Part of the pressure loading of the experiment at 35  mm stand‐off distance is recorded, which is still of great help and significance for engineers. Especially, the peak pressure of the shock wave is captured.
Jumping Translocations of 1q in Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Report of Three Cases and Review of Literature
Authors: Couture T. , Amato K. , DiAdamo A. , Li P.
Published: September 2018

Jumping translocations of 1q refer to the break-off of chromosome 1q as a donor fusing to two or more recipient chromosomes. We detected jumping translocations of 1q in three patients with initial diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and later progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Review of literature found jumping translocations of 1q in 30 reported cases of MDS and AML. The cytogenetic findings from these 33 cases showed that seven cases had a stemline clone and 26 cases had de novo jumping translocations of 1q in which 5% of cell lineages had additional structural rearrangements. In 75% of cases, the 1q donor jumped to the short arm of recipient acrocentric chromosomes. Approximately 82% of the fusions occurred in the telomeric regions of short and long arms and 18% occurred in the pericentric or interstitial regions of recipient chromosomes. Hypomethylation of the donor 1q pericentromeric region and shortened telomeres in recipient chromosomes were associated with the formation of jumping translocations. Jumping translocations of 1q as an indication of chromosomal instability pose high risk for progression of MDS to AML and a poor prognosis. Further understanding of underlying genomic defects and their clinical significance will improve overall treatment and patient care.
Risk of Ischemic Stroke, Hemorrhagic Stroke, and All-Cause Mortality in Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Yu-Yen , Yen Yung-Feng , Lin Jun-Xian , Feng Shih-Chao , Wei Li-Chen , Lai Yun-Ju , Shen Ying-Cheng
Published: September 2018

Purpose. To investigate whether the risk of subsequent stroke, ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, and all-cause mortality is increased among retinal vein occlusion (RVO) patients compared to non-RVO patients. Methods. From the entire population of the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) from 2001 to 2013, a total of 22919 subjects with RVO were enrolled in the RVO group, and 114595 propensity score (PS)-matched non-RVOs were enrolled in the comparison group. PS matching was based on age, gender, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, hyperviscosity syndrome, Charlson comorbidity index, glaucoma, and the use of antithrombotic drugs. A multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to estimate the adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) for each of the clinical outcomes, including stroke, ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, and all-cause mortality. Furthermore, we divided the RVO group into the branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) group and the central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) group and separately compared their subsequent risks of the clinical outcomes with those of the comparison group. Results. After adjusting for PS, the RVO group had a significantly higher risk of stroke (adjusted HR = 1.36; 95% CI: 1.32–1.40), ischemic stroke (adjusted HR = 1.36; 95% CI: 1.32–1.40), and hemorrhagic stroke (adjusted HR = 1.34; 95% CI: 1.24–1.44). However, the all-cause mortality did not exhibit significant differences. Furthermore, both the BRVOs and CRVOs had a significantly higher risk of subsequent stroke, ischemic stroke, and hemorrhagic stroke than did the comparisons, whereas all-cause mortality was similar among the groups. Conclusions. People with RVO are at a significantly greater risk of developing stroke, ischemic stroke, and hemorrhagic stroke. However, RVO does not significantly increase the risk of all-cause mortality.
Association of H-Type Hypertension with Stroke Severity and Prognosis
Authors: Li Tan , Zhu Jiajia , Fang Qi , Duan Xiaoyu , Zhang Mingzhi , Diao Shanshan , Zhou Yun , Yang Si , Kong Yan , Cai Xiuying
Published: September 2018

Background. The correlation between H-type hypertension and acute ischemic stroke remains uncertain. Objective. The present study was designed to explore the possible relationship between H-type hypertension and severity and prognosis of acute ischemic stroke. Method. We included 372 patients with acute ischemic stroke and divided them into four groups: H-type hypertension group, simple hypertension group, simple hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) group, and the control group. NIHSS score was measured at both admission and two weeks later. mRS score, stroke recurrence, cardiovascular event, or all-cause mortality was recorded at 3-month and 1-year follow-up. Result. The results showed that the NIHSS score on admission in the H-type hypertension group (6.32 ± 5.91) was significantly higher than that in the control group (3.97 ± 3.59) (P < 0.05), while there was no obvious association between H-type hypertension and NIHSS score after 2-week treatment (P = 0.106). Endpoint events incidence in H-type hypertension group was the highest; however, in the cox regression model of multiple factor analysis, H-type hypertension was not an independent risk factor. Conclusion. H-type hypertension may result in early functional deterioration and higher incidence rate of endpoint events but not act as an independent risk factor.
Evolution and Tailoring of DUV Plasmonic Properties in Al Nanoparticle Arrays by UV Irradiation
Authors: Ding Yanyue , Chen Jian , Xu Gan , Liu Fei , Han Min
Published: September 2018

Ultraviolet irradiation was used to tailor the surface plasmon band of the densely distributed aluminium nanoparticle arrays fabricated by gas-phase deposition. We showed that the broad surface plasmon resonance band of the as-prepared sample could be tuned to a sharp and strong resonance band in the deep ultraviolet optical range, with a large blue shift of the peak wavelength. The evolution of the surface plasmon resonance properties was attributed to the ultraviolet irradiation-improved surface oxidation of the nanoparticles, which eliminated the near-field couplings between the closely spaced nanoparticles by increasing their interspacing.
Combined Application of Bevacizumab and Mitomycin C or Bevacizumab and 5-Fluorouracil in Experimental Glaucoma Filtration Surgery
Authors: Zuo Lei , Zhang Jianhong , Xu Xun
Published: September 2018

The present study aimed at observing the effect of a single subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab (BVZ) combined with 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) or mitomycin C (MMC) on the antiscarring effect of glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS). The inhibitory effect of combined BVZ and 5-Fu in retinal pigment epithelial cells on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels was demonstrated throughin vitroexperiments. Combined BVZ and 5-Fu and combined BVZ and MMC inhibited cell cycle, induced apoptosis, and inhibited human umbilical vein endothelial cell migration. Also, the cytotoxicity of combined BVZ and 5-Fu was lower. In animal experiments, the observation of filtering bleb survival, hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining of filtering bleb scars, and mRNA expression levels of fibrosis markers in filtering blebs showed that combined BVZ and 5-Fu had a better antiscarring effect compared with single drugs; however, the antiscarring effect of combined BVZ and MMC was not significantly different from MMC. Therefore, the findings of this study provided more reference for the clinical use of adjuncts to inhibit scarring after GFS and helped understand the regulatory effect of combined anti-VEGF antibody BVZ and antimetabolites on wound healing more comprehensively.
Simulation Calculation and Analysis of Electronic Structure and Electrical Properties of Metal‐Doped SnO2
Authors: Wang Jing-Qin , Kang Hui-Ling , Zhang Ying
Published: September 2018

SnO2 is an almost insulated semiconductor material, which increases the contact resistance of the AgSnO2 electrical contact material. Therefore, by improving the electrical performance of SnO2, the electrical properties of the AgSnO2 can be optimized. The first principle method based on density functional theory is used to calculate the electronic structure, formation energy, band structure, density of states, and differential charge density of SnO2 doped with the metals Ti, Sr, Ge, Sb, and Ga. The results show that metal‐doped SnO2 materials are still direct bandgap semiconductor materials, and the effect of the electronic states of the metallic elements enhances the localization of the energy band, decreases the bandgap, increases the carrier concentration at the Fermi level, and enhances the electrical performance of the materials, and the bandgap of Ga‐doped SnO2 is the smallest, 0.041 eV. And the charge transfer between Sb, Sr, Ga, Ti, and Ge metal atoms and O atoms increases, especially between Ga atom and O atom; that is, the electrical performance of Ga doping is better.
Optical‐Fiber‐Based Smart Concrete Thermal Integrity Profiling: An Example of Concrete Shaft
Authors: Zhong Ruoyu , Guo Ruichang , Deng Wen
Published: September 2018

Concrete is currently the most widely used construction material in the world. The integrity of concrete during the pouring process could greatly affect its engineering performance. Taking advantage of heat production during the concrete curing process, we propose an optical‐fiber‐based thermal integrity profiling (TIP) method which can provide a comprehensive and accurate evaluation of the integrity of concrete immediately after its pouring. In this paper, we use concrete shaft as an example to conduct TIP by using the optical fiber as a temperature sensor which can obtain high spatial resolution temperature data. Our method is compared with current thermal infrared probe or embedded thermal sensor‐based TIP for the concrete shaft. This innovation makes it possible to detect defects inside of the concrete shaft with thorough details, including size and location. First, we establish a 3D shaft model to simulate temperature distribution of concrete shaft. Then, we extract temperature distribution data at the location where the optical fiber would be installed. Based on the temperature distribution data, we reconstruct a 3D model of the concrete shaft. Evaluation of the concrete integrity and the existence of the potential defect are shown in the paper. Overall, the optical‐fiber‐based TIP method shows a better determination of defect location and size.
Impaired Cerebral Vasomotor Reactivity in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Gongora-Rivera Fernando , Cordero-Perez Adolfo , Gonzalez-Aquines Alejandro , Anaya-Escamilla Antonio , Villarreal-Garza Eduardo , Espinosa-Ortega Meztli , Salinas-Carmona Mario C. , Ortiz-Jimenez Xochilt
Published: September 2018

Background. Recent studies have shown that cerebral vascularity may be impaired in Alzheimer’s disease. Cerebral vasomotor reactivity could be an important biomarker for this pathology.Aims. The aim of this study was to investigate the alterations in cerebral vascular motor reactivity in Alzheimer’s disease subjects and to associate these changes with their cognitive scores.Methods. We recruited subjects with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and healthy controls. Demographic, clinical, imaging, and cognitive test were obtained. Then all participants performed a cerebral vascular motor reactivity test with 7% CO2 and cerebral blood flow velocities (CBFV) were recorded with transcranial doppler ultrasound before and after the test.Results. We recruited 45 subjects, 26 (21 female) Alzheimer’s disease participants and 19 (15 female) healthy controls. There were no differences in baseline cerebral blood flow velocities between the groups. After the cerebral vasomotor reactivity test, absolute mean difference in mean CBFV (ΔCBFV-m) was 8.70±4.14 versus 4.81±6.96 (p<0.01), respectively. Calculated percentage of change (%CVMR) was lower in the AD group 7.45±18.25 versus 23.29±17.48, and there was a positive but weak correlation with mini-mental scores (ρ=0.337, p=0.023).Conclusions. In this study, Alzheimer’s disease subjects showed significant changes in all absolute cerebral blood flow velocities after the cerebral vasomotor reactivity test with CO2, but only diastolic phase responses were statistically significant. There was a positive but weak correlation between cerebral vasomotor reactivity and cognitive scores. Further studies are needed to investigate these effects in larger Latin-American samples.
A New Multilevel Inverter Topology for Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Satti Muhammad Bilal , Hasan Ammar , Ahmad Mian Ilyas
Published: September 2018

The demand for clean and sustainable energy has spurred research in all forms of renewable energy sources, including solar energy from photovoltaic systems. Grid-connected photovoltaic systems (GCPS) provide an effective solution to integrate solar energy into the existing grid. A key component of the GCPS is the inverter. The inverter can have a significant impact on the overall performance of the GCPS, including maximum power point (MPP) tracking, total harmonic distortion (THD), and efficiency. Multilevel inverters are one of the most promising classes of converters that offer a low THD. In this paper, we propose a new multilevel inverter topology with the motivation to improve all the three aforementioned aspects of performance. The proposed topology is controlled through direct model predictive control (DMPC), which is state of the art in control techniques. We compare the performance of the proposed topology with the topologies reported in literature. The proposed topology offers one of the best efficiency, MPP tracking, and voltage THD.
Incidental Finding of Intraperitoneal Tuberculosis in a Patient Presenting with a Large Ovarian Mass
Authors: Green Ayla , Elmasry Samer , Ihalagama Himali , Senaratne Saman
Published: September 2018

A 52-year-old postmenopausal female of Filipino heritage presented with a three-day history of increasing abdominal bloating, vomiting, and fever. A CT scan revealed a 22 cm ovarian mass and ascites. Her laboratory results were unremarkable except for CA-125 and CA-19.9 which were slightly elevated. Due to suspicion of ovarian neoplasm, she underwent a laparotomy where multiple inflammatory deposits were observed throughout the pelvis. Histology confirmed florid granulomatous inflammation with caseous necrosis, and peritoneal fluid culture was positive for tuberculosis. She was treated with standard antimycobacterial therapy and made an uneventful recovery.
Refeeding syndrome as treatment complication of anorexia nervosa
Authors: Skowrońska Anna , Sójta Klaudia , Strzelecki Dominik
Published: September 2018

Zespół realimentacyjny (ZR) jest jednym z poważniejszych powikłań występujących podczas leczenia jadłowstrętu psychicznego. Obejmuje on zaburzenia hormonalne oraz metaboliczne pojawiające się podczas procesu realimentacji pacjentów chronicznie niedożywionych, gdy żywienie zostanie wprowadzone w niedostosowanej ilości. ZR manifestuje się zaburzeniami równowagi wodno-elektrolitowej, w tym hipofosfatemią (będącą najważniejszym markerem diagnostycznym), hipokaliemią, hiponatremią, hipomagnezemią, retencją płynów, niedoborem witamin oraz kwasicą metaboliczną. Zespół może wystąpić przy suplementacji doustnej, jak i parenteralnej. W leczeniu pacjentów niedożywionych w przebiegu jadłowstrętu psychicznego kluczowe wydaje się ustalenie początkowego pułapu kalorycznego, który będzie stymulować wzrost wagi już od początku leczenia, zwiększać jego efektywność, przy równoczesnym zminimalizowaniu ryzyka ZR. Wyniki najnowszych badań wskazują, że aktualne zalecenia mogą być pod tym względem zbyt rygorystyczne i wymagają dalszego uaktualniania. Świadomość zagrożeń związanych z wystąpieniem ZR, w tym znacznej śmiertelności, wydaje się być obecnie niewystarczająca, również wśród lekarzy. Brakuje wielospecjalistycznych ośrodków zajmujących się leczeniem pacjentów chorujących na jadłowstręt psychiczny oraz odpowiednich algorytmów organizujących specjalistyczną opiekę. Praca ta ma na celu usystematyzowanie dotychczasowej wiedzy na temat ZR i jego profilaktyki, zwiększenie świadomości jego występowania oraz przybliżenie wyników najnowszych badań dotyczących bezpiecznej resuplementacji pacjentów wyniszczonych w przebiegu jadłowstrętu psychicznego.
Trade Catalogue of Everything
Authors: Ibghy Richard , Lemmens Marilou
Published: September 2018

The Trade Catalogue of Everything is a digital file that lists everything and anything—land, water, air, plants, animals, fragments of nature, but also the products of human culture, industry, invention and human know-how—that may be of interest to alien life. Housed in a gold USB flash memory device, the catalogue is intended for travel aboard a probe headed toward the stars beyond our solar system. Following in the footsteps of the Pioneer Plaque (1972–1973) and The Golden Record (1977), which introduced human civilization to extraterrestrials, the catalogue is an invitation for spacefaring civilizations to make contact with Earth and begin a trade relationship.