bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sac-Type Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: A Case Report of Two Siblings
Authors: Kodera Chisato , Ohba Takashi , Hashimoto Tomomi , Yamaguchi Munekage , Yoshimatsu Hidetaka , Katabuchi Hidetaka
Published: August 2018

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), a herniation of the abdominal contents through a defect or hypoplasia of the diaphragm, is a relatively common, severe congenital anomaly. Here we present the first case of two siblings with possibly isolated sac-type CDH and with a suspected genetic etiology. Although sibling recurrence of isolated CDH is rare, the incidence is higher than in the general population. Additionally, the second child had a more severe respiratory disorder than the first child. It is to be noted that siblings of children having isolated CDH are at risk for CDH, and prenatal evaluation should be considered individually.
Resilience of Complex Systems: State of the Art and Directions for Future Research
Authors: Fraccascia Luca , Giannoccaro Ilaria , Albino Vito
Published: August 2018

This paper reviews the state of the art on the resilience of complex systems by embracing different research areas and using bibliometric tools. The aim is to identify the main intellectual communities and leading scholars and to synthesize key knowledge of each research area. We also carry out a comparison across the research areas, aimed at analyzing how resilience is approached in any field, how the topic evolved starting from the ecological field of study, and the level of cross‐fertilization among domains. Our analysis shows that resilience of complex systems is a multidisciplinary concept, which is particularly important in the fields of environmental science, ecology, and engineering. Areas of recent and increasing interest are also operation research, management science, business, and computer science. Except for environmental science and ecology, research is fragmented and carried out by isolated research groups. Integration is not only limited inside each field but also between research areas. In particular, we trace the citation links between different research areas and find a very limited number, revealing a scarce cross‐fertilization among domains. We conclude by providing some directions for future research.
Dysfunction of Nrf2‐ARE Signaling Pathway: Potential Pathogenesis in the Development of Neurocognitive Impairment in Patients with Moderate to Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea‐Hypopnea Syndrome
Authors: Zhou Li , Ouyang Ruoyun , Luo Hong , Peng Yating , Chen Ping , Ren Siying , Liu Guiqian
Published: August 2018

The present study investigated the nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2‐ (Nrf2‐) antioxidant response element (ARE) signaling pathway in patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea‐hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). Their correlation with neurocognitive impairment metrics was investigated to explore potential pathogenesis in OSAHS. Forty‐eight patients with OSAHS and 28 controls underwent testing with the Epworth Sleep Scale (ESS), MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB), Stroop Color and Word Test, polysomnography (PSG), and measurements of the concentration of plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD) and thioredoxin (Trx). Further, 20 pairs of matched patients with OSAHS and controls were selected for measurement of the expression (protein and mRNA) of Nrf2 and of its downstream antioxidase, heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), in peripheral mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Finally, correlations between neurocognitive impairment and the above metrics were analyzed. Expression of Nrf2 and HO‐1 mRNA and protein in the PBMCs, as well as plasma SOD and Trx levels, were significantly reduced in patients with OSAHS. After adjusting for education, sex, age, and smoking index, the expression of Nrf2‐ARE signaling pathway proteins (or mRNA) was closely correlated with sleep respiratory parameters. An inverse relationship was demonstrated between the expression of nuclear Nrf2 in PBMCs, concentration of plasma SOD and Trx, and apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) in patients with OSAHS. Trx, nuclear Nrf2 protein, and HO‐1 protein were also negatively correlated with the percent of time that SaO2 was less than 90% (TSat90). Total Nrf2 protein level was positively correlated with AHI and TSat90 and negatively correlated with minimum SaO2 (LSaO2), while nuclear Nrf2 protein and HO‐1 protein were positively correlated with LSaO2. Moreover, significant positive correlations were found between maze scores and expression of nuclear Nrf2 protein, HO‐1 protein, and SOD and Trx levels. Furthermore, inverse relationships between total Nrf2 protein in PBMCs and HVLT‐R and maze scores were found. Multiple linear regression showed plasma Trx concentration as a potential predictor of maze and BVMT‐R scores. In conclusion, the expression of Nrf2‐ARE molecules and related antioxidases is significantly decreased in patients with OSAHS and is correlated with neurocognitive dysfunction. The Nrf2‐ARE signaling pathway may play a crucial role in neurocognitive impairment in patients with moderate to severe OSAHS. Further studies are needed to explore the exact mechanisms and potential treatment interventions.
Estimation and Human Health Risk Assessment of Organochlorine Pesticides in Raw Milk Marketed in Zagazig City, Egypt
Authors: Raslan Amal A. , Elbadry Seham , Darwish Wageh Sobhy
Published: August 2018

Milk is nearly a perfect natural food and is widely used by all segments of our population especially for infants and the elderly. Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) have been used worldwide, particularly in many African countries as in Egypt for the control of pests. OCPs are characterized by their bioaccumulation in the environment, especially in the food chain, where they find their way into the human body. The objectives of this study were initially to estimate the residual concentrations of different OCPs in three kinds of fresh and raw milk from different animals (cattle, buffalo, and goat) marketed in Egypt. Additionally, human dietary intake and risk assessment of OCPs were calculated. The tested OCPs included pp-DDT and its metabolites pp-DDD and pp-DDE; hexachlorohexanes (HCHs) including α HCH and γ HCH; heptachlor and heptachlor epoxide; aldrin and endrin; chlordane, methoxychlor, and hexachloride benzene. The recorded results revealed that goat and buffalo milk samples had the highest incidence of OCPs’ contamination (75% for each), while this percentage was 50% in cow’s milk. The mean values of ΣOCPs were 317.83 ± 34.11, 605 ± 50.54, and 1210.57 ± 99.55 (ppb/ww) in the examined cattle, buffalo, and goat milk samples, respectively. All examined OCPs were within the maximum permissible limits (MPLs) set by World Health Organization with only 10% of goat milk samples exceeding this MRL. The estimated daily intake, noncancer, and cancer health risk assessment of the tested OCPs revealed the potential cancer risk especially among children consuming goat’s milk. The public health importance of such OCPs was discussed.
Clear Cell Papulosis: A Rare Pediatric Dermatosis
Authors: Tan Keng Wein Jeanette , Chong Jin Ho , Koh Jean Aan Mark
Published: August 2018

The diagnosis and management of pediatric hypopigmented lesions can be challenging given their wide range of differentials. In this case report, we present a case of a 3-year-old Chinese boy who was initially treated for tinea versicolor but subsequently diagnosed to have clear cell papulosis. The features, diagnosis, and management of clear cell papulosis are discussed in this article to raise awareness of this condition amongst pediatricians.
Robust Linear Output Regulation Using Extended State Observer
Authors: Hosseini-Pishrobat Mehran , Keighobadi Jafar , Oveisi Atta , Nestorović Tamara
Published: August 2018

This paper presents a disturbance rejection-based solution to the problem of robust output regulation. The mismatch between the underlying plant and its nominal mathematical model is formulated by two disturbance classes. The first class is assumed to be generated by an autonomous linear system while for the second class no specific dynamical structure is considered. Accordingly, the robustness of the closed-loop system against the first disturbance class is achieved by following the internal model principle. On the other hand, in the framework of disturbance rejection control, an extended state observer (ESO) is designed to approximate and compensate for the second class, i.e., unstructured disturbances. As a result, the proposed output regulation method can deal with a vast range of uncertainties. Finally, the stability of the closed-loop system based on the proposed compound controller is carried out via Lyapunov and center manifold analyses, and some results on the robust output regulation are drawn. A representative simulation example is also presented to show the effectiveness of the control method.
Severe Allergic Bronchopulmonary Mycosis and Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Esmaeilzadeh Hossein , Kashef Sara , Hatami Hamid Reza , Alyasin Soheila , Nabavizadeh Hesamodin , Esmaeilzadeh Elmira
Published: August 2018

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is the most common immunologic reaction following fungal allergen exposure in asthmatic patients. A less frequent syndrome in response to other fungal species like candida is allergic bronchopulmonary mycosis (ABPM). This reaction is mostly associated with asthma exacerbation, changes in Immunoglobulin E levels, and nonspecific findings in high resolution computed tomography (HRCT). This study presents a 9-year-old girl, a known case of childhood asthma, resolved 4 years ago as a novel case of ABPM due to Candida albicans manifested by severe emphysema, bronchiectasis, and pneumothorax which consequently required long-term treatment to get relieved.
Incidence, Dependence Structure of Disease, and Rate Making for Health Insurance
Authors: Xie Yuan-tao , Yang Juan , Jiang Chong-guang , Cai Zi-yu , Adagblenya Joshua
Published: August 2018

In order to analyze the two goals under the national strategy of “Healthy China”, this paper attempts to solve the problem of coverage rate and guarantee level of health insurance, as well as the rational allocation of full life cycle health insurance resources. This paper uses pair copula to model the dependence of different disease incidence and proposes an actuarial model for rate making in health insurance based on the dependence captured by pair copula. These are far more accurate than any other model and more proper for covering a basket of several different diseases. The data for the paper was drawn from the experience incidence table of major diseases (malignant tumor, acute myocardial infarction, and stroke sequelae) from the ages 0-65 years in the Chinese life insurance industry. Extending the hypothesis of independence in actuarial modeling, the authors comprehensively use a hierarchical copula theory to extract the dependence structure of risk variable in insurance. The classification rate making technology and survival analysis method in traditional actuarial pricing were also considered. This paper applied the generalized linear model, which is commonly used in nonlife insurance pricing for empirical study of health insurance rate making. The authors discovered that the incidence of major diseases and the single premium rate calculated by the generalized linear model under HAC dependence structure were both significantly different from that calculated by the Manchester United method without dependency. The authors also stated that the rate based on the generalized linear model under HAC dependence structure was a bit different from that without dependency but both were generally the same as that of Care Expert in PICC Health. The underestimation or overestimation of systematic risks and the distortion of the rate system can be eliminated if we combine risk dependence into modeling.
A DNA-Methylated Sight on Autoimmune Inflammation Network across RA, pSS, and SLE
Authors: Wang Xingqiang , Lei Dongyun , Ding Jie , Liu Shuang , Tao Li , Zhang Fan , Peng Jiangyun , Xu Jian
Published: August 2018

Methylation variabilities of inflammatory cytokines play important roles in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS). With heightened focus on personalized and precise medicine, it is necessary to compare and contrast the difference and similarity of cytokine methylation status between the 3 most classic autoimmune diseases (AIDs). In this study, we integrated 5 Cytokine-Chips from genome-wide DNA methylation datasets of the 3 kind of AIDs, delta-beta value was calculated for intergroup difference, and comprehensive bioinformatics analyses of cytokine genes with aberrant methylations were performed. 125 shared differential methylation variabilities (DMVs) were identified. There were 102 shared DMVs with similar methylation status; 3 hypomethylated differential methylation regions (DMRs) across the AIDs were found, and all 3 DMRs were hypomethylated. DMRs (AZU1, LTBR, and RTEL1) were likely to serve as activator in the inflammatory process. Particularly, AZU1 and LTBR with hypomethylated TSS and first exon located in the promoter regions were able to trigger inflammation signaling cascades and play critical roles in autoimmune tautology. Moreover, functional epigenetic module (FEM) algorithm showed that different inflammatory networks are involved in different AIDs; 5 hotspots were identified as biologically plausible pathways in inducing or perpetuating of inflammation which are epigenetically deregulated in AIDs. We concluded methylation variabilities among the same cytokines can greatly impact the perpetuation of inflammatory process or signal pathway of AIDs. Differentiating the cytokine methylation status will serve as valuable resource for researchers alike to gain better understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms of the three AIDs. Even more importantly, better understanding of cytokine methylation variability existing between the three classic AIDs will aid in identification of potential epigenetic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This trial is registered with ChiCTR-INR-16010290, a clinical trial for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with Warming yang and Smoothening Meridians.
Intraspinal Transplantation of the Adipose Tissue-Derived Regenerative Cells in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Accordance with the Current Experts’ Recommendations: Choosing Optimal Monitoring Tools
Authors: Kuzma-Kozakiewicz Magdalena , Marchel Andrzej , Kaminska Anna , Gawel Malgorzata , Sznajder Jan , Figiel-Dabrowska Anna , Nowak Arkadiusz , Maj Edyta , Krzesniak Natalia Ewa , Noszczyk Bartlomiej H. , Domanska-Janik Krystyna , Sarnowska Anna
Published: August 2018

Stem cells (SCs) may constitute a perspective alternative to pharmacological treatment in neurodegenerative diseases. Although the safety of SC transplantation has been widely shown, their clinical efficiency in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is still to be proved. It is not only due to a limited number of studies, small treatment groups, and fast but nonlinear disease progression but also due to lack of objective methods able to show subtle clinical changes. Preliminary guidelines for cell therapy have recently been proposed by a group of ALS experts. They combine clinical, neurophysiological, and functional assessment together with monitoring of the cytokine level. Here, we describe a pilot study on transplantation of autologous adipose-derived regenerative cells (ADRC) into the spinal cord of the patients with ALS and monitoring of the results in accordance with the current recommendations. To show early and/or subtle changes within the muscles of interest, a wide range of clinical and functional tests were used and compared in order to choose the most sensitive and optimal set. Additionally, an analysis of transplanted ADRC was provided to develop standards ensuring the derivation and verification of adequate quality of transplanted cells and to correlate ADRC properties with clinical outcome.
Short‐Term Efficacy of Pulsed Radiofrequency Thermal Stimulation on Acupoints for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Preliminary Study of a Randomized, Single‐Blinded, Placebo‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Ku Boncho , Jun Minho , Lee Jun-Hwan , Jeon Young-Ju , Kim Young-Min , Kang Jaehui , Lee Yu-Jung , Kim Kahye , Heo Hyun , Kim Jaeuk U.
Published: August 2018

Background. The objective of this study was to evaluate the pain‐relief efficacy of thermal stimulation induced by a pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) thermal stimulation applied to acupoints (APs) in patients with low back pain (LBP). The study was designed as a randomized, single‐blinded, placebo‐controlled trial. Methods. Fifty‐six LBP patients whose minimum pain intensity score on a visual analogue scale (VAS, 0‐100 mm) was more than 30 mm were randomly allocated to either the placebo‐controlled or the treatment group at a 1:1 ratio. The treatment and placebo‐controlled groups received PRF thermal stimulation plus cupping therapy and cupping therapy only, respectively. Each patient was scheduled to receive a total of three treatment sessions over one week with allowing a window up to 4 days. Six of the 13 predefined APs were selected differently for each session depending on the change in patient’s symptoms and intensity of pain. The primary outcome was the mean difference between the placebo‐controlled and treatment group of VAS changes from the baseline to the end of the follow‐up period. Results. The patients’ reported VAS scores from baseline to the end of follow‐up (average: 9.8 days) were significantly decreased by 8.036 points (two‐sided 95% CI, ‐11.841 to ‐4.231) and 13.393 points (two‐sided 95% CI: 17.198 to ‐9.588) in the treatment and the placebo‐controlled groups, respectively. However, the change in VAS scores between the treatment group and the placebo‐controlled group was not significantly different (2.015 mm, two‐sided 95% CI: ‐5.288 to 9.317). Conclusion. The trial results indicated that treatment with either PRF thermal stimulation with cupping therapy or cupping therapy alone effectively relieved LBP. The efficacy of PRF thermal stimulation combined with cupping therapy was not superior to that of cupping therapy alone. Trial registration number: Clinical Research Information Service (KCT0002137). The trial was registered retrospectively on 10 November, 2016.
Complex Modeling of the Effects of Blasting on the Stability of Surrounding Rocks and Embankment in Water‐Conveyance Tunnels
Authors: Zhou Xian-qi , Yu Jin , Ye Jin-bi , Liu Shi-yu , Liao Ren-guo , Li Xiu-wen
Published: August 2018

Blasting in water‐conveyance tunnels that cross rivers is vital for the safety and stability of embankments. In this work, a tunnel project that crosses the Yellow River in the north district of the first‐phase Eastern Line of the South‐to‐North Water Diversion Project was selected as the research object. A complex modeling and numerical simulation on embankment stability with regard to the blasting power of the tunnel was conducted using the professional finite difference software FLAC3D to disclose the relationships between the blasting seismic waves with vibration velocity and embankment displacement under different excavation steps. Calculation results demonstrated that displacement generally attenuated from the tunnel wall to the internal structure of rocks under the effect of blasting seismic waves. The tunnel wall was in tension, and tensile stress gradually transformed into compressive stress with increased depth into the rocks. The curtain‐grouting zone was mainly concentrated in the compressive zones. For different excavation steps, the vibration velocity at different feature points was high at the beginning of blasting and then gradually decreased. The resultant displacement was relatively small in the early excavation period and slowly increased as blasting progressed. The effects of different excavation steps on the safety of surrounding rocks and embankment under blasting seismic waves were simulated. We found that the blasting‐induced vibration velocity was within the safe range of the code and that the calculated displacement was within the allowed range. Numerical simulation was feasible to assess the safety and stability of engineering projects.
Parameter Estimation and Sensitivity Analysis of an Optimal Control Model for Capital Asset Management
Authors: Latunde Tolulope , Bamigbola Olabode Matthias
Published: August 2018

Optimal control is a very significant field of modern control theory which has been applied in many areas like medicine, science, and finance. This work is based on realization of asset values as a benefit of asset management where a capital asset management problem is modelled and expressed mathematically from the perspective of an investor whose income is generated by return and capital gains on investments with price and return on assets assumed to satisfy uncertainty process. This results in an optimal control model based on uncertainty theory which relates two or more parameters that measures the condition or state of individual’s investments. These parameters enable us to know the condition of risk involved in asset management and how to maintain and manage the assets in order to maximize expected present value of the utility of asset and minimize the risk involved to aid capital investment decision-making. Parameter sensitivity analysis is an approach given to a model so as to define significance of the factors related to the model where the whole parameter space is fully described. However, the model is applied to a real-life problem of capital asset management to deal with debt crisis of a nation’s economy and the sensitivity analysis to determine the effects of the input factors on the model is investigated such that relative significance and sensitivity of each parameter on the model results are presented using parameter estimations. Finally the optimal control decision policy is obtained and discussed.
Two Cases of γ-Heavy Chain Disease and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Ramasamy I. , Rudzki Z.
Published: August 2018

Gamma heavy chain disease (γ-HCD) is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder characterised by the production of a truncated immunoglobulin heavy chain. Fewer than 200 cases have been reported in the literature. In some cases, γ-HCD occurs with other lymphoid neoplasms. This study reports clinical, biochemical, haematological, and histological findings in two cases of γ-HCD. We describe newer biochemical diagnostic tools (HevyLite measurement, capillary electrophoresis, and immunotyping) that can aid in the characterisation of γ-HCD. The first case is an 88-year-old woman with γ-HCD. The second case is an 81-year-old woman who developed γ-HCD during treatment for Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia. In the second patient, histopathology identified a separate clone responsible for the secretion of the gamma heavy chain. Studies on the clonal evolution of the disease may provide insight into therapeutic implications and the genomic complexity of the disease.
The Impact of Purinergic System Enzymes on Noncommunicable, Neurological, and Degenerative Diseases
Authors: Bagatini Margarete Dulce , dos Santos Alessandra Antunes , Cardoso Andréia Machado , Mânica Aline , Reschke Cristina Ruedell , Carvalho Fabiano Barbosa
Published: August 2018

Evidences show that purinergic signaling is involved in processes associated with health and disease, including noncommunicable, neurological, and degenerative diseases. These diseases strike from children to elderly and are generally characterized by progressive deterioration of cells, eventually leading to tissue or organ degeneration. These pathological conditions can be associated with disturbance in the signaling mediated by nucleotides and nucleosides of adenine, in expression or activity of extracellular ectonucleotidases and in activation of P2X and P2Y receptors. Among the best known of these diseases are atherosclerosis, hypertension, cancer, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). The currently available treatments present limited effectiveness and are mostly palliative. This review aims to present the role of purinergic signaling highlighting the ectonucleotidases E-NTPDase, E-NPP, E-5′-nucleotidase, and adenosine deaminase in noncommunicable, neurological, and degenerative diseases associated with the cardiovascular and central nervous systems and cancer. In conclusion, changes in the activity of ectonucleotidases were verified in all reviewed diseases. Although the role of ectonucleotidases still remains to be further investigated, evidences reviewed here can contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of highly complex diseases, which majorly impact on patients’ quality of life.
A New Smoothing Method for Mathematical Programs with Complementarity Constraints Based on Logarithm-Exponential Function
Authors: Chen Yu , Wan Zhong
Published: August 2018

We present a new smoothing method based on a logarithm-exponential function for mathematical program with complementarity constraints (MPCC). Different from the existing smoothing methods available in the literature, we construct an approximate smooth problem of MPCC by partly smoothing the complementarity constraints. With this new method, it is proved that the Mangasarian-Fromovitz constraint qualification holds for the approximate smooth problem. Convergence of the approximate solution sequence, generated by solving a series of smooth perturbed subproblems, is investigated. Under the weaker constraint qualification MPCC-Cone-Continuity Property, it is proved that any accumulation point of the approximate solution sequence is a M-stationary point of the original MPCC. Preliminary numerical results indicate that the developed algorithm based on the partly smoothing method is efficient, particularly in comparison with the other similar ones.
Pterygoid Hamular Bursitis: A Possible Link to Craniofacial Pain
Authors: Shetty Sameep S. , Shetty Premalatha , Shah Prit Kiran , Nambiar Jayanth , Agarwal Nancy
Published: August 2018

A striking feature of the skull base is the pterygoid hamulus known for its bizarre morphology and biomechanical location. Pterygoid hamular bursitis is an inflammation of bursae located between the tendon, muscle, and bony prominences. The minimal objective finding in an apparently normal orofacial apparatus and dependence on the subjective symptoms experienced by the patient with widespread referral pattern often perplexes the clinician. Bursitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of craniofacial neuralgia, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and chronic craniofacial pain. Clinical signs and symptoms of this intriguing entity are diverse and multifaceted that can sometimes demand services of clinicians across various specialties considering the anatomic density of the region. Care must be taken to avoid delay, misdiagnosis, and overtreatment.
Myopathy in the York Platelet Syndrome: An Underrecognized Complication
Authors: Roman Joy , Palmer Michael I. , Palmer Cheryl A. , Johnson Nicholas E. , Butterfield Russell J.
Published: August 2018

York Platelet Syndrome (YPS) is a calcium channelopathy caused by gain of function in STIM1, a gene which acts as a calcium sensor. It is characterized by platelet abnormalities and muscle weakness. Medical literature emphasizes the hematologic aspects of the cases with few data of the neuromuscular and neuropathologic evaluation. We present a patient with YPS whose myopathy was the most prominent aspect. She presented around 2 years of age with proximal weakness and easy bruisability. YPS was diagnosed in the infant at 16 months of age at the National Institutes of Health. Muscle biopsy demonstrated a severe chronic myopathy. Rimmed vacuoles and tubular aggregates were noted. Although YPS is rare, the combination of a congenital myopathy with thrombocytopenia may facilitate the diagnosis and enable further insights into the disease.
An Incentive Dynamic Programming Method for the Optimization of Scholarship Assignment
Authors: Huang Di , Gu Yu , Wang Hans , Liu Zhiyuan , Chen Jun
Published: August 2018

Scholarship assignment is an operations management problem confronting university administrators, which is traditionally solved based on administrators’ personal experiences. This paper proposes an incentive method inspired by dynamic programming to replace the traditional decision-making process in the scholarship assignment. The objective is to find the optimal scholarship assignment scheme with the highest equity while accounting for both the practical constraints and the equity requirement. Moreover, with the proposed method, the scholarship assignment avoids time- and energy-consuming application processes conducted by students. A solution algorithm is used to find feasible assignment schemes by iteratively solving a series of knapsack subproblems based on dynamic programming and adjusting the monetary value of a unit score. The optimal assignment scheme can then be screened out by applying the Gini coefficient for quantifying the equity of each feasible scheme. A numerical case is investigated to illustrate the applicability of the proposed method and solution algorithm. The results indicate that the proposed method is an efficient tool to assign scholarships to students with consideration of the equity.
Leveraging Image Visual Features in Content-Based Recommender System
Authors: Deng Fuhu , Ren Panlong , Qin Zhen , Huang Gu , Qin Zhiguang
Published: August 2018

Content-based (CB) and collaborative filtering (CF) recommendation algorithms are widely used in modern e-commerce recommender systems (RSs) to improve user experience of personalized services. Item content features and user-item rating data are primarily used to train the recommendation model. However, sparse data would lead such systems unreliable. To solve the data sparsity problem, we consider that more latent information would be imported to catch users’ potential preferences. Therefore, hybrid features which include all kinds of item features are used to excavate users’ interests. In particular, we find that the image visual features can catch more potential preferences of users. In this paper, we leverage the combination of user-item rating data and item hybrid features to propose a novel CB recommendation model, which is suitable for rating-based recommender scenarios. The experimental results show that the proposed model has better recommendation performance in sparse data scenarios than conventional approaches. Besides, training offline and recommendation online make the model has higher efficiency on large datasets.
Radiological Patterns of Lung Involvement in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Cozzi Diletta , Moroni Chiara , Addeo Gloria , Danti Ginevra , Lanzetta Monica Marina , Cavigli Edoardo , Falchini Massimo , Marra Fabio , Piccolo Claudia Lucia , Brunese Luca , Miele Vittorio
Published: August 2018

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a form of chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, including two major entities: ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Although intestinal imaging of IBD is well known, imaging of extraintestinal manifestations is not extensively covered. In particular, the spectrum of IBD-associated or related changes in the chest is broad and may mimic other conditions. The common embryonic origin of intestine and lungs from the foregut, autoimmunity, smoking, and bacterial translocation from the colon may all be involved in the pathogenesis of these manifestations in IBD patients. Chest involvement in IBD can present concomitant with or years after the onset of the bowel disease even postcolectomy and can affect more than one thoracic structure. The purpose of the present paper is to present the different radiological spectrum of IBD-related chest manifestations, including lung parenchyma, airways, serosal surfaces, and pulmonary vasculature. The most prevalent and distinctive pattern of respiratory involvement is large airway inflammation, followed by lung alterations. Pulmonary manifestations are mainly detected by pulmonary function tests and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). It is desirable that radiologists know the various radiological patterns of possible respiratory involvement in such patients, especially at HRCT. It is essential for radiologists to work in multidisciplinary teams in order to establish the correct diagnosis and treatment, which rests on corticosteroids at variance with any other form of bronchiectasis.
An Anonymous Multireceiver with Online/Offline Identity‐Based Encryption
Authors: Wang Qihua , Li Fagen , Wang Huaqun
Published: August 2018

Anonymous multireceiver encryption scheme can not only protect the privacy of the receiver but also ensure the security of message. However, the computational cost of this scheme is very large. It is not suitable for the sender which has limited resources, such as mobile devices and sensor nodes. In this work, an anonymous multireceiver online/offline identity‐based encryption is proposed based on offline/online and identity‐based encryption (IBE). In identity‐based encryption scheme, the sender can encrypt the message using the unique information of the user (such as identity number or e‐mail address) as its public key. The receiver obtains the private key from a central authority. For mobile device with limited resource, the online/offline encryption scheme can reduce the computational cost. Compared to the previous anonymous multireceiver schemes, the proposed scheme can efficiently encrypt message with offline/online method and ensure the anonymity of receivers. The analysis results also show that our scheme is efficient in terms of computational cost by comparing to the previous works.
Radiation Induces Apoptosis and Osteogenic Impairment through miR-22-Mediated Intracellular Oxidative Stress in Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Liu Zhonglong , Li Tao , Deng Si’nan , Fu Shuiting , Zhou Xiaojun , He Yue
Published: August 2018

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were characterized by their multilineage potential and were involved in both bony and soft tissue repair. Exposure of cells to ionizing radiation (IR) triggers numerous biological reactions, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), cellular apoptosis, and impaired differentiation capacity, while the mechanisms of IR-induced BMSC apoptosis and osteogenic impairment are still unclear. Through a recent study, we found that 6 Gy IR significantly increased the apoptotic ratio and ROS generation, characterized by ROS staining and mean fluorescent intensity. Intervention with antioxidant (NAC) indicated that IR-induced cellular apoptosis was partly due to the accumulation of intracellular ROS. Furthermore, we found that the upregulation of miR-22 in rBMSCs following 6 Gy IR played an important role on the ROS generation and subsequent apoptosis. In addition, we firstly demonstrated that miR-22-mediated ROS accumulation and cell injury had an important regulated role on the osteogenic capacity of BMSCs both in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, IR-induced overexpression of miR-22 regulated the cell viability and differentiation potential through targeting the intracellular ROS.
Differential Regulation of Methylation-Regulating Enzymes by Senescent Stromal Cells Drives Colorectal Cancer Cell Response to DNA-Demethylating Epi-Drugs
Authors: Agrawal Khushboo , Das Viswanath , Táborská Natálie , Gurský Ján , Džubák Petr , Hajdúch Marián
Published: August 2018

The advanced-stage colon cancer spreads from primary tumor site to distant organs where the colon-unassociated stromal population provides a favorable niche for the growth of tumor cells. The heterocellular interactions between colon cancer cells and colon-unassociated fibroblasts at distant metastatic sites are important, yet these cell-cell interactions for therapeutic strategies for metastatic colon cancer remain underestimated. Recent studies have shown the therapeutic potential of DNA-demethylating epi-drugs 5-azacytidine (AZA) and 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine (DAC) for the treatment of solid tumors. While the effects of these epi-drugs alone or in combination with other anticancer therapies are well described, the influence of stromal cells and their secretome on cancer cell response to these agents remain elusive. In this study, we determined the effect of normal and senescent colon-unassociated fibroblasts and their conditioned medium on colorectal cancer (CRC) cell response to AZA and DAC using a cell-based DNA demethylation reporter system. Our data show that fibroblasts accelerate cell proliferation and differentially regulate the expression of DNA methylation-regulating enzymes, enhancing DAC-induced demethylation in CRC cells. In contrast, the conditioned medium from senescent fibroblasts that upregulated NF-κB activity altered deoxycytidine kinase levels in drug-untreated CRC cells and abrogated DAC effect on degradation of DNA methyltransferase 1. Similar to 2D cultures, senescent fibroblasts increased DNA demethylation of CRC cells in coculture spheroids, in addition to increasing the stemness of CRC cells. This study presents the first evidence of the effect of normal and senescent stromal cells and their conditioned medium on DNA demethylation by DAC. The data show an increased activity of DAC in high stromal cell cocultures and suggest the potential of the tumor-stroma ratio in predicting the outcome of DNA-demethylating epigenetic cancer therapy.
Group Sparse Basis Pursuit Denoising Reconstruction Algorithm for Polarimetric Through-the-Wall Radar Imaging
Authors: Qu Lele , An Shimiao , Yang Tianhong , Sun Yanpeng
Published: August 2018

Polarimetric through-the-wall radar imaging (TWRI) system has the enhancing performance in the detection, imaging, and classification of concealed targets behind the wall. We propose a group sparse basis pursuit denoising- (BPDN-) based imaging approach for polarimetric TWRI system in this paper. The proposed imaging method combines the spectral projection gradient L1-norm (SPGL1) algorithm with the nonuniform fast Fourier transform (NUFFT) technique to implement the imaging reconstruction of observed scene. The experimental results have demonstrated that compared to the existing compressive sensing- (CS-) based imaging algorithms, the proposed NUFFT-based SPGL1 algorithm can significantly reduce the required computer memory and achieve the improved imaging reconstruction performance with the high computational efficiency.
Primary Mucosal Melanoma of the Stomach
Authors: Phillips O. , Higdon A. , Colaco R. , Fish H.
Published: August 2018

Considered to be rare, mucosal melanomas are rare type of melanoma that are found on mucosal surfaces and are primary or metastatic in origin. We report a case of a 66-year-old Hispanic female who presented with vague abdominal pain and upon further endoscopic work-up revealed 2 gastric lesions. Endoscopic biopsy results revealed gastric melanoma in the distal lesion. A PET/CT scan indicated it to be suspicious for the primary site of metastasis but was ultimately diagnosed as a benign nevus on biopsy. An extensive clinical exam showed no other probable sites of origin. The patient underwent a subtotal Billroth II gastrectomy and enterostomy tube placement for temporary feeding. Primary melanoma of the stomach is an exceptionally rare occurrence with limited cases that can be accounted for in literature; thus we report this case for review.
A Methodology for Choosing between Route Deviation and Point Deviation Policies for Flexible Transit Services
Authors: Zheng Yue , Li Wenquan , Qiu Feng
Published: August 2018

Flexible transit services, which bring together the characteristics of fixed-route transit and demand-responsive transit, have been proven to be cost-efficient in low-density residential areas. In this paper, a methodology is proposed to assist planners in making better decisions when choosing between route deviation policy and point deviation policy, which are two promising types of flexible transit services. A user cost function is developed to measure the service quality of the transit systems, and analytical models are constructed to compare the system performance under both expected and unexpected demand levels. Based on the experiments for various scenarios over a real-life transit example, the critical demands, which represent the switching point between the two competing service policies, have been derived. Our findings show that point deviation policy is more efficient at low-demand levels, while route deviation policy is a better choice at low-to-moderate demand levels. At unexpectedly high demand levels, route deviation policy is better able to accommodate rejected passengers than point deviation policy.
Bandwidth Enhancement of Microstrip Patch Antenna Using Complementary Rhombus Resonator
Authors: Tao Lei , Xu Jianchun , Li Haihong , Hao Yanan , Huang Shanguo , Lei Ming , Bi Ke
Published: August 2018

By using complementary rhombus resonator (CRR), a small‐size and low‐profile microstrip patch antenna (MPA) with broad bandwidth has been proposed. Parametric studies were conducted to illustrate the working principle of the proposed antenna. An additional resonance is introduced by the CRR to broaden the bandwidth. Compared with the MPA without the CRR, the bandwidth of the proposed antenna is increased by 200%. The measured results are in good agreements with the simulated ones, which demonstrate that this design provides a way to obtain the broadband antenna.
On-Demand Therapy with Proton Pump Inhibitors for Maintenance Treatment of Nonerosive Reflux Disease or Mild Erosive Esophagitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Khan Zubair , Alastal Yaseen , Khan Muhammad Ali , Khan Mohammad Saud , Khalil Basmah , Shrestha Shreesh , Kamal Faisal , Nawras Ali , Howden Colin W.
Published: August 2018

Background. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely used for the long-term management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, concerns about the cost and/or inconvenience of continuous maintenance PPI treatment have led to the evaluation of various alternative approaches. Aim. To assess the effectiveness of on-demand PPI therapy in the maintenance treatment of nonerosive reflux disease (NERD) or mild erosive esophagitis (EE). Methods. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library from inception until October 2, 2017, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing on-demand PPI versus placebo or daily PPI in the management of NERD or mild EE (Savary-Miller grade 1). Discontinuation of therapy during the trial was used as a surrogate for patient dissatisfaction and failure of symptomatic control. We calculated pooled odds ratios (OR) to evaluate the efficacy of on-demand PPI treatment. Separate analyses were conducted for studies comparing on-demand PPI with daily PPI and with placebo. Subgroup analysis was done based on NERD studies alone and on studies of both NERD and mild EE. These were analyzed using a random effects model. Results. We included 10 RCTs with 4574 patients. On-demand PPI was superior to daily PPI (pooled OR = 0.50; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.35, 0.72). On subgroup analysis in NERD patients only, pooled OR was 0.44 (0.29, 0.66). In studies including patients with NERD and mild EE, pooled OR was 0.76 (0.36, 1.60). For studies comparing on-demand PPI with placebo, pooled OR was 0.21 (0.15, 0.29); subgroup analyses of studies evaluating NERD only and studies conducted in NERD and mild EE showed similar results (pooled OR was 0.22 (0.13, 0.36) and 0.18 (0.11, 0.31), resp.). Conclusions. On-demand PPI treatment is effective for many patients with NERD or mild EE. Although not FDA-approved, it may be adequate for those patients whose symptoms are controlled to their satisfaction.
A Pilot Study of Short-Duration Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy to Improve HbA1c, Leukocyte, and Serum Creatinine in Patients with Diabetic Foot Ulcer Wagner 3-4
Authors: Irawan Hendry , Semadi I. Nyoman , Widiana I. Gde Raka
Published: August 2018

Objective. To evaluate the short-duration hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can improve HbA1c levels, leukocyte count, and serum creatinine levels in patients with diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) Wagner 3-4.Methods. Blood samples from all DFU patients at Sanglah General Hospital, Denpasar, were taken for HbA1c, leukocyte, and serum creatinine test before debridement procedure, and the patients were then grouped into either standard therapy or standard therapy with HBOT for 10 sessions (combination therapy). At the end of therapy, all blood tests were resumed.Results. Each group consisted of 15 patients. Results of laboratory analysis before and after treatment were significant regarding decrease of HbA1c levels in standard therapy (10.98 ± 2.37 % to 9.70 ± 2.46 %; p = 0.006), HbA1c levels in combination therapy (9.42 ± 1.96 % to 7.07 ± 1.16 %; p < 0.001), and leukocyte count in combination therapy (13.97 ± 6.24 x 103cells/μL to 8.84 ± 2.88 x 103cells/μL; p = 0.009). The HbA1c levels at the end of therapy were significantly different between groups (p = 0.001). Serum creatinine level was decreased only in combination therapy but it was not significant. The effect size of all variables was larger in the combination therapy, but it was not significant (p > 0.05).Conclusion. The use of short-duration HBOT on DFU reduces HbA1c levels, leukocyte count, and serum creatinine levels better than standard therapy alone. This protocol would save time and effort in future HBOT implementation. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT03615755.
Maximizing the Survival of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patients: Current Perspectives
Authors: Khairoalsindi Osama A. , Abuzinadah Ahmad R.
Published: August 2018

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease that leads to loss of the upper and lower motor neurons. Almost 90% of all cases occur in the sporadic form, with the rest occurring in the familial form. The disease has a poor prognosis, with only two disease-modifying drugs approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The approved drugs for the disease have very limited survival benefits. Edaravone is a new FDA-approved medication that may slow the disease progression by 33% in a selected subgroup of ALS patients. This paper covers the various interventions that may provide survival benefits, such as early diagnosis, medications, gene therapy, stem cell therapy, diet, nutritional supplements, multidisciplinary clinics, and mechanical invasive and noninvasive ventilation. The recent data on masitinib, the role of enteral feeding, gene therapy, and stem cell therapy is discussed.
Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Scriptaid Alleviated Neurological Dysfunction after Experimental Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Mice
Authors: Yang Heng , Ni Wei , Jiang Hanqiang , Lei Yu , Su Jiabin , Gu Yuxiang , Zhou Liangfu
Published: August 2018

Objectives. To investigate the role of Scriptaid in reducing brain injury after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in mice. Methods. An ICH model was constructed by injecting autologous blood into the right basal ganglia in mice. The animals were administered 3.5 mg/kg of Scriptaid intraperitoneally after ICH. The hematoma volume and hemoglobin level were measured to examine hematoma resolution. A behavior test and brain edema and white matter injury examinations indicated brain injury after ICH. Results. Scriptaid treatment promoted hematoma resolution and reduced the hematoma volume 7 d after ICH compared with the vehicle group (P<0.05). Scriptaid treatment also alleviated the brain water content in the ipsilateral basal ganglia (P<0.05) and cortex (P<0.01) 3 d after ICH. In addition, Scriptaid improved neurological function recovery and alleviated white matter injury 35 d after ICH. Conclusions. Scriptaid can protect against brain injury after ICH and may be considered a new medical therapy method for ICH.