bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in Understanding the Immunological Pathways in Psoriasis
Authors: Georgescu Simona-Roxana , Tampa Mircea , Caruntu Constantin , Sarbu Maria-Isabela , Mitran Cristina-Iulia , Mitran Madalina-Irina , Matei Clara , Constantin Carolina , Neagu Monica
Published: February 2019

Psoriasis vulgaris is a chronic, immune-mediated, inflammatory, polygenic skin disorder affecting approximately 2% of the population. It has a great impact on quality of life; patients often experience depression, anxiety, stigma as well as suicidal behavior. Even though psoriasis is one of the most studied dermatological conditions, the pathogenesis of the disease is still not completely elucidated. The complex interactions between keratinocytes, dendritic cells, T-lymphocytes, neutrophils and mast cells are responsible for the histopathological changes seen in psoriasis. The pathogenic model leading to the formation of psoriatic plaques has however evolved a lot over the years. There is now enough evidence to support the role of interleukin (IL) -23, IL-17, IL-22, T helper (Th) -17 cells, Th-22 cells, T regulatory cells, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and IL-10 in the pathogenesis of the disease. Moreover, several inflammatory and anti-inflammatory molecules are currently being investigated, some of them showing promising results. The aim of this paper is to look over the most recent advances in the immunological pathways involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis vulgaris.
Mechanisms of Toxicity of Industrially Relevant Silicomanganese Dust on Human 1321N1 Astrocytoma Cells: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Arnoldussen Yke Jildouw , Kringlen Ervik Torunn , Samulin Erdem Johanna , Kero Ida , Baarnes Eriksen Mina , Skaug Vidar , Zienolddiny Shanbeh
Published: February 2019

Tremendous efforts are applied in the ferroalloy industry to control and reduce exposure to dust generated during the production process, as inhalable Mn-containing particulate matter has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases. This study aimed to investigate the toxicity and biological effects of dust particles from laboratory-scale processes where molten silicomanganese (SiMn) was exposed to air, using a human astrocytoma cell line, 1321N1, as model system. Characterization of the dust indicated presence of both nano-sized and larger particles averaging between 100 and 300 nm. The dust consisted mainly of Si, Mn and O. Investigation of cellular mechanisms showed a dose- and time-dependent effect on cell viability, with only minor changes in the expression of proteins involved in apoptosis. Moreover, gene expression of the neurotoxic biomarker amyloid precursor protein (APP) increased, whereas APP protein expression decreased. Finally, induction of gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) increased with higher doses and correlated with the other endpoints. Thus, the effects of SiMn dust on 1321N1 cells are highly dependent on the dose of exposure and involves changes in APP, apoptosis-related proteins and intercellular communication.
D-2-Hydroxyglutarate and L-2-Hydroxyglutarate Inhibit IL-12 Secretion by Human Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cells
Authors: Ugele Ines , Cárdenas-Conejo Zugey Elizabeth , Hammon Kathrin , Wehrstein Monika , Bruss Christina , Peter Katrin , Singer Katrin , Gottfried Eva , Boesch Jakob , Oefner Peter , Dettmer Katja , Renner Kathrin , Kreutz Marina
Published: February 2019

Mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) or a reduced expression of L-2-hydroxyglutarate (HG)-dehydrogenase result in accumulation of D-2-HG or L-2-HG, respectively, in tumor tissues. D-2-HG and L-2-HG have been shown to affect T-cell differentiation and activation; however, effects on human myeloid cells have not been investigated so far. In this study we analyzed the impact of D-2-HG and L-2-HG on activation and maturation of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs). 2-HG was taken up by DCs and had no impact on cell viability but diminished CD83 expression after Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) stimulation. Furthermore, D-2-HG and L-2-HG significantly reduced IL-12 secretion but had no impact on other cytokines such as IL-6, IL-10 or TNF. Gene expression analyses of the IL-12 subunits p35/IL-12A and p40/IL-12B in DCs revealed decreased expression of both subunits. Signaling pathways involved in LPS-induced cytokine expression (NFkB, Akt, p38) were not altered by D-2-HG. However, 2-HG reprogrammed LPS-induced metabolic changes in DCs and increased oxygen consumption. Addition of the ATP synthase inhibitor oligomycin to DC cultures increased IL-12 secretion and was able to partially revert the effect of 2-HG. Our data show that both enantiomers of 2-HG can limit activation of DCs in the tumor environment.
Abnormal Expression of c-Myc Oncogene in NK Cells in Patients with Cancer
Authors: Zakiryanova Gulnur K. , Kustova Elena , Urazalieva Nataliya T. , Baimuchametov Emile T. , Nakisbekov Narymzhan N. , Shurin Michael R.
Published: February 2019

Natural killer (NK) cells have received a lot of attention in recent years for the roles they play in immunity and particularly in antitumor immune responses. Although defects in NK cell functions are recognized as important mechanisms for immune evasion of malignant cells, molecular pathways regulating NK cell dysfunction and exhaustion in cancer are largely unknown. Here we tested whether the c-myc proto-oncogene, known to promote cell proliferation, growth, differentiation, and apoptosis by regulating the expression of numerous target genes, may be involved in the mechanism of NK cell abnormalities in patients with lung and gastric cancer. Analysis of c-myc mRNA and protein expression in peripheral blood NK cells, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity, cell cycle, and cell longevity revealed a significantly decreased expression of c-myc mRNA and protein and mitotic arrest of NK cells in different phases of cell cycle. In addition, a significant decrease of NK cell death was also detected. These data allow the suggestion that defects of NK cell-mediated tumor surveillance may be associated with disturbed c-myc expression in NK cells in cancer patients. A better understanding of the mechanisms of NK cell dysfunction in cancer will help in the NK cell-mediated therapeutic eradication of primary and metastatic cancer cells and prolong patient survival.
Metabolic and Molecular Basis of Sarcopenia: Implications in the Management of Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Fukushima Hiroshi , Fujii Yasuhisa , Koga Fumitaka
Published: February 2019

Sarcopenia, which represents the degenerative and systemic loss of skeletal muscle mass, is a multifactorial syndrome caused by various clinical conditions. Sarcopenia reflects not only frailty and poor general health status, but also the possible presence of advanced or progressive cancer or cancer cachexia. Therefore, sarcopenia affects the management of cancer-bearing patients, including those with urothelial carcinoma. Recently, growing evidence has shown that sarcopenia is significantly associated with higher rates of treatment-related complications and worse prognosis in patients with urothelial carcinoma, including muscle-invasive bladder cancer, upper tract urothelial carcinoma, and advanced urothelial carcinoma. Moreover, several studies reported that a post-therapeutic increase in skeletal muscle mass predicts favorable prognosis in urothelial carcinoma patients. To further explore the role of sarcopenia in the management of urothelial carcinoma patients, comprehensive understanding of its pathophysiology is vital. In this article, we reviewed the metabolic and molecular basis of cancer cachexia and sarcopenia. From this viewpoint, we discussed the possible mechanism of changes in skeletal muscle mass during the course of treatment.
Covalently-Linked Hyaluronan versus Acid Etched Titanium Dental Implants: A Crossover RCT in Humans
Authors: Lupi Saturnino Marco , Rodriguez y Baena Arianna , Cassinelli Clara , Iviglia Giorgio , Tallarico Marco , Morra Marco , Rodriguez y Baena Ruggero
Published: February 2019

Biochemical modification of titanium surfaces (BMTiS) entails immobilization of biomolecules to implant surfaces in order to induce specific host responses. This crossover randomized clinical trial assesses clinical success and marginal bone resorption of dental implants bearing a surface molecular layer of covalently-linked hyaluronan in comparison with control implants up to 36 months after loading. Patients requiring bilateral implant rehabilitation received hyaluronan covered implants in one side of the mouth and traditional implants in the other side. Two months after the first surgery, a second surgery was undergone to uncover the screw and to place a healing abutment. After two weeks, the operator proceeded with prosthetic procedures. Implants were evaluated by periapical radiographs and the crestal bone level was recorded at mesial and distal sites—at baseline and up to 36 months. One hundred and six implants were positioned, 52 HY-coated, and 48 controls were followed up. No differences were observed in terms of insertion and stability, wound healing, implant success, and crestal bone resorption at any time considered. All interventions had an optimal healing, and no adverse events were recorded. This trial shows, for the first time, a successful use in humans of biochemical-modified implants in routine clinical practice and in healthy patients and tissues with satisfactory outcomes.
Honey-Mediated Wound Healing: H2O2 Entry through AQP3 Determines Extracellular Ca2+ Influx
Authors: Martinotti Simona , Laforenza Umberto , Patrone Mauro , Moccia Francesco , Ranzato Elia
Published: February 2019

Since Biblical times, honey has been utilized in “folk medicine”, and in recent decades the positive qualities of honey have been re-discovered and are gaining acceptance. Scientific literature states that honey has been successfully utilized on infections not responding to classic antiseptic and antibiotic therapy, because of its intrinsic H2O2 production. In our study, we demonstrated the involvement of H2O2 as a main mediator of honey regenerative effects on an immortalized human keratinocyte cell line. We observed that this extracellularly released H2O2 could pass across the plasma membrane through a specific aquaporin (i.e., AQP3). Once in the cytoplasm H2O2, in turn, induces the entry of extracellular Ca2+ through Melastatin Transient Receptor Potential 2 (TRPM2) and Orai1 channels. Honey-induced extracellular Ca2+ entry results in wound healing, which is consistent with the role played by Ca2+ signaling in tissue regeneration. This is the first report showing that honey exposure increases intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), due to H2O2 production and redox regulation of Ca2+-permeable ion channels, opening up a new horizon for the utilization of the honey as a beneficial tool.
Composite Alloplastic Biomaterial vs. Autologous Platelet-Rich Fibrin in Ridge Preservation
Authors: Mendoza-Azpur Gerardo , Olaechea Allinson , Padial-Molina Miguel , Gutiérrez-Garrido Lourdes , O’Valle Francisco , Mesa Francisco , Galindo-Moreno Pablo
Published: February 2019

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the clinical and histological differences of using a combination of alloplastic beta triphasic calcium phosphate (β-TCP) and a cross-linked collagen membrane versus autologous platelet-rich fibrin (PRF-L) in ridge preservation after dental extraction. Material and methods: Fifty-one patients were included in this observational case-series study. Dental extractions were performed, after which 25 patients were grafted with β-TCP and 26 with PRF-L. After four months of healing, clinical, radiological, histomorphometric and histological evaluations were performed. Results: A significantly higher percentage of mineralized tissue was observed in samples from the PRF-L grafted areas. Cellularity was higher in PRF-L grafted areas (osteocytes in newly formed bone per mm2 = 123.25 (5.12) vs. 84.02 (26.53) for PRF-L and β-TCP, respectively, p = 0.01). However, sockets grafted with PRF-L showed a higher reduction in the bucco-lingual dimension after four months of healing (2.19 (0.80) vs. 1.16 (0.55) mm, p < 0.001), as well as a higher alteration in the final position of the mid muco-gingival junction (1.73 (1.34) vs. 0.88 (0.88) mm, p < 0.01). Conclusion: PRF-L concentrate accelerates wound healing in post-extraction sockets in terms of new mineralized tissue component. However, the use of β-TCP biomaterial appears to be superior to maintain bucco-lingual volume and the final position of the muco-gingival junction.
Non-Aβ-Dependent Factors Associated with Global Cognitive and Physical Function in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Pilot Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Pedrinolla Anna , Venturelli Massimo , Tamburin Stefano , Fonte Cristina , Stabile Anna Maria , Boscolo Galazzo Ilaria , Ghinassi Barbara , Venneri Mary Anna , Pizzini Francesca Benedetta , Muti Ettore , Smania Nicola , Di Baldassarre Angela , Naro Fabio , Rende Mario , Schena Federico
Published: February 2019

Recent literature highlights the importance of identifying factors associated with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Actual validated biomarkers include neuroimaging and cerebrospinal fluid assessments; however, we investigated non-Aβ-dependent factors associated with dementia in 12 MCI and 30 AD patients. Patients were assessed for global cognitive function (Mini-Mental state examination—MMSE), physical function (Physical Performance Test—PPT), exercise capacity (6-min walking test—6MWT), maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), brain volume, vascular function (flow-mediated dilation—FMD), inflammatory status (tumor necrosis factor—α ,TNF- α, interleukin-6, -10 and -15) and neurotrophin receptors (p75NTR and Tropomyosin receptor kinase A -TrkA). Baseline multifactorial information was submitted to two separate backward stepwise regression analyses to identify the variables associated with cognitive and physical decline in demented patients. A multivariate regression was then applied to verify the stepwise regression. The results indicated that the combination of 6MWT and VO2max was associated with both global cognitive and physical function (MMSE = 11.384 + (0.00599 × 6MWT) − (0.235 × VO2max)); (PPT = 1.848 + (0.0264 × 6MWT) + (19.693 × VO2max)). These results may offer important information that might help to identify specific targets for therapeutic strategies (NIH Clinical trial identification number NCT03034746).
Investigating the Role of Everolimus in mTOR Inhibition and Autophagy Promotion as a Potential Host-Directed Therapeutic Target in Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Cerni Stephen , Shafer Dylan , To Kimberly , Venketaraman Vishwanath
Published: February 2019

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease caused by the pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). The current therapy consists of a combination of antibiotics over the course of four months. Current treatment protocols run into problems due to the growing antibiotic resistance of Mtb and poor compliance to the multi-drug-resistant TB treatment protocol. New treatments are being investigated that target host intracellular processes that could be effective in fighting Mtb infections. Autophagy is an intracellular process that is involved in eliminating cellular debris, as well as intracellular pathogens. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is an enzyme involved in inhibiting this pathway. Modulation of mTOR and the autophagy cellular machinery are being investigated as potential therapeutic targets for novel Mtb treatments. In this review, we discuss the background of Mtb pathogenesis, including its interaction with the innate and adaptive immune systems, the mTOR and autophagy pathways, the interaction of Mtb with these pathways, and finally, the drug everolimus, which targets these pathways and is a potential novel therapy for TB treatment.
Single-Frame, Multiple-Frame and Framing Motifs in Genes
Authors: Michel Christian J.
Published: February 2019

We study the distribution of new classes of motifs in genes, a research field that has not been investigated to date. A single-frame motif SF has no trinucleotide in reading frame (frame 0) that occurs in a shifted frame (frame 1 or 2), e.g., the dicodon AAACAA is S F as the trinucleotides AAA and CAA do not occur in a shifted frame. A motif which is not single-frame S F is multiple-frame M F . Several classes of M F motifs are defined and analysed. The distributions of single-frame S F motifs (associated with an unambiguous trinucleotide decoding in the two 5 ′ – 3 ′ and 3 ′ – 5 ′ directions) and 5′ unambiguous motifs 5 ′ U (associated with an unambiguous trinucleotide decoding in the 5 ′ – 3 ′ direction only) are analysed without and with constraints. The constraints studied are: initiation and stop codons, periodic codons { A A A , C C C , G G G , T T T } , antiparallel complementarity and parallel complementarity. Taken together, these results suggest that the complementarity property involved in the antiparallel (DNA double helix, RNA stem) and parallel sequences could also be fundamental for coding genes with an unambiguous trinucleotide decoding in the two 5 ′ – 3 ′ and 3 ′ – 5 ′ directions or the 5 ′ – 3 ′ direction only. Furthermore, the single-frame motifs S F with a property of trinucleotide decoding and the framing motifs F (also called circular code motifs; first introduced by Michel (2012)) with a property of reading frame decoding may have been involved in the early life genes to build the modern genetic code and the extant genes. They could have been involved in the stage without anticodon-amino acid interactions or in the Implicated Site Nucleotides (ISN) of RNA interacting with the amino acids. Finally, the S F and M F dipeptides associated with the S F and M F dicodons, respectively, are studied and their importance for biology and the origin of life discussed.
Effects of Reactive MgO on the Reaction Process of Geopolymer
Authors: Li Zhaoheng , Zhang Wei , Wang Ruilan , Chen Fangzhu , Jia Xichun , Cong Peitong
Published: February 2019

In order to compensate for the shrinkage of geopolymer pastes uniformly, reactive MgO powders are evenly dispersed in the geopolymer. The deformation performance, mechanical properties, microstructure and components of geopolymer pastes with reactive MgO are characterized. The effects of the content and the activity of MgO are discussed. The results indicate that the chemical shrinkage, autogenous shrinkage and drying shrinkage decrease with the addition of reactive MgO. MgO reacted with water, and fine Mg(OH)2 crystals forms as a geopolymer paste. Mg(OH)2 produces uniform expansion, which refines the pore size of pastes and the compressive strength increases. The shrinkage of the geopolymer pastes is thus effectively compensated.
WxNbMoTa Refractory High-Entropy Alloys Fabricated by Laser Cladding Deposition
Authors: Li Qingyu , Zhang Hang , Li Dichen , Chen Zihao , Huang Sheng , Lu Zhongliang , Yan Haoqi
Published: February 2019

WxNbMoTa refractory high-entropy alloys with four different tungsten concentrations (x = 0, 0.16, 0.33, 0.53) were fabricated by laser cladding deposition. The crystal structures of WxNbMoTa alloys are all a single-phase solid solution of the body-centered cubic (BCC) structure. The size of the grains and dendrites are 20 μm and 4 μm on average, due to the rapid solidification characteristics of the laser cladding deposition. These are much smaller sizes than refractory high-entropy alloys fabricated by vacuum arc melting. In terms of integrated mechanical properties, the increase of the tungsten concentration of WxNbMoTa has led to four results of the Vickers microhardness, i.e., Hv = 459.2 ± 9.7, 476.0 ± 12.9, 485.3 ± 8.7, and 497.6 ± 5.6. As a result, NbMoTa alloy shows a yield strength (σb) and compressive strain (εp) of 530 Mpa and 8.5% at 1000 °C, leading to better results than traditional refractory alloys such as T-111, C103, and Nb-1Zr, which are commonly used in the aerospace industry.
ZnO Synthesized Using Bipolar Electrochemistry: Structure and Activity
Authors: Hakimian Arya , McWilliams Steven , Ignaszak Anna
Published: February 2019

The photoactive materials broadly applied in catalysis and energy conversion are generally composed of metal oxides. Among these oxides, ZnO showed a promising photocatalytic activity; however, traditional synthetic routes generated by-products and large amounts of secondary waste. Herein, we report the use of bipolar electrochemistry to generate ZnO nanoparticles using deionized water and a zinc metal to conform to green chemistry practices. TEM imaging demonstrated that the sizes of the bipolar-made ZnO particles were smaller than the commercial sample. The presence of structural defects in ZnO was correlated with the chemical shifts analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and by different concentrations of O2− ions in stoichiometric and defected lattice. Further, the diffuse reflectance UV–Vis studies demonstrated a blue-shift in the reflectance spectrum for the bipolar-made oxide. This was also an indication of defects in the ZnO lattice, which related to the formation of shallow levels in the bandgap of the material. The structural and morphological differences influenced the photocatalytic characteristics, revealing a higher photocurrent for the bipolar-made ZnO when compared to the reference sample. This was further manifested in lower total resistivity for all anodes made from the non-stoichiometric ZnO, and also in their shorter diffusion length for charge exchange and electron lifetimes.
Eckol as a Potential Therapeutic against Neurodegenerative Diseases Targeting Dopamine D3/D4 Receptors
Authors: Paudel Pradeep , Seong Su Hui , Wu Sangwook , Park Suhyun , Jung Hyun Ah , Choi Jae Sue
Published: February 2019

The G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family of proteins comprises signaling proteins that mediate cellular responses to various hormones and neurotransmitters, and serves as a prime target for drug discovery. Towards our goal of discovering secondary metabolites from natural sources that can function as neuronal drugs, we evaluated the modulatory effect of eckol on various GPCRs via cell-based functional assays. In addition, we conducted in silico predictions to obtain molecular insights into the functional effects of eckol. Functional assays revealed that eckol had a concentration-dependent agonist effect on dopamine D3 and D4 receptors. The half maximal effective concentration (EC50) of eckol for the dopamine D3 and D4 receptors was 48.62 ± 3.21 and 42.55 ± 2.54 µM, respectively, while the EC50 values of dopamine as a reference agonist for these two receptors were 2.9 and 3.3 nM, respectively. In silico studies revealed that a low binding energy in addition to hydrophilic, hydrophobic, π–alkyl, and π–π T-shaped interactions are potential mechanisms by which eckol binds to the dopamine receptors to exert its agonist effects. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation revealed that Phe346 of the dopamine receptors is important for binding of eckol, similar to eticlopride and dopamine. Our results collectively suggest that eckol is a potential D3/D4 agonist for the management of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease.
Polyplexes of Functional PAMAM Dendrimer/Apoptin Gene Induce Apoptosis of Human Primary Glioma Cells In Vitro
Authors: Bae Yoonhee , Thuy Le Thi , Lee Young Hwa , Ko Kyung Soo , Han Jin , Choi Joon Sig
Published: February 2019

Highly efficient and safe gene delivery has become an important aspect of neuronal gene therapy. We evaluated the ability of polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer grafted with phenylalanine, histidine, and arginine (PAMAM-FHR), a nonviral gene delivery vector, to deliver a therapeutic, tumor cell-specific killer gene, apoptin, into the human primary glioma cell line GBL-14 and human dermal fibroblasts. We performed a transfection assay using plasmids of luciferase and enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) and assessed cell viability. Both cell lines were treated with complexes of PAMAM-FHR and apoptin after which their intracellular uptake and localization were examined by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS)analysis and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Confocal microscopy showed that the PAMAM-FHR escaped from the endo-lysosome into the cytosol. Cell cycle phase distribution analysis, annexin V staining, and a tetramethylrhodamine ethyl ester (TMRE) assay established that apoptin triggered apoptosis in the GBL-14 cell line but not in normal fibroblasts. These results indicated that the PAMAM-FHR/apoptin complex is an effective gene vehicle for cancer therapy in vitro.
Religious Heterogamy, Marital Quality, and Paternal Engagement
Authors: Kim Young-Il , Swan Isaak
Published: February 2019

Using data from a nationally representative sample of married fathers of school-aged children, we examined the association between religious heterogamy of parents and fathers’ involvement in children’s lives. We further examined whether that association is mediated by marital quality and father–child religious discord. Results showed that greater religious heterogamy is associated with less interaction and more relational distance between fathers and children. Results also suggested that fathers’ reports of marital happiness play an important role in mediating the association between religious heterogamy and paternal engagement. We concluded that religious fathers are more involved in their children’s lives insofar as their wives are equally religious and they are in happy marriages.
Determination of Effective Mode Selection for Ensuring Spectrum Efficiency with Massive MIMO in IoT Systems
Authors: Dikmen Osman , Kulaç Selman
Published: February 2019

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) based on Internet of Things (IoT) applications are increasing day by day. These applications include healthcare, infrastructure monitoring, smart homes, wearable devices and smart cars. However, considering the fact that many different application areas will emerge in next generation wireless communication systems, efficient use of frequency spectrum is important. Because the whole frequency spectrum is now very crowded, it is important to ensure maximum spectrum efficiency for effective WSNs based on IoT. This study sought to determine which mode more effectively achieves spectrum efficiency for the performance of effective IoT systems under given conditions with respect to the length of the pilot sequence, Time Division Duplexing (TDD) or Frequency Division Duplexing (FDD). The results were obtained by Monte Carlo simulations. To the best of our knowledge, a study of effective mode selection analysis for spectrum efficiency in IoT based systems has not been available in the literature yet. The results of this study are useful for determining the appropriate design conditions for WSNs based on IoT.
Resonant Photoacoustic Spectroscopy of NO2 with a UV-LED Based Sensor
Authors: Kapp Johannes , Weber Christian , Schmitt Katrin , Pernau Hans-Fridtjof , Wöllenstein Jürgen
Published: February 2019

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a poisonous trace gas that requires monitoring in urban areas. Accurate measurement in sub-ppm concentrations represents a wide application field for suitable economical sensors. We present a novel approach to measure NO2 with a photoacoustic sensor using a T-shaped resonance cell. An inexpensive UV-LED with a peak wavelength of 405 nm as radiation source as well as a commercial MEMS microphone for acoustic detection were used. In this work, a cell has been developed that enables a “non-contact” feedthrough of the divergent LED beam. Thus, unwanted background noise due to absorption on the inside walls is minimized. As part of the development, an acoustic simulation has been carried out to find the resonance frequencies and to visualize the resulting standing wave patterns in various geometries. The pressure amplitude was calculated for different shapes and sizes. A model iteratively optimized in this way forms the basis of a construction that was built for gas measurement by rapid prototyping methods. The real resonance frequencies were compared to the ones found in simulation. The limit of detection was determined in a nitrogen dioxide measurement to be 200 ppb (6 σ) for a cell made of aluminum.
Single-Pixel Imaging and Its Application in Three-Dimensional Reconstruction: A Brief Review
Authors: Sun Ming-Jie , Zhang Jia-Min
Published: February 2019

Whereas modern digital cameras use a pixelated detector array to capture images, single-pixel imaging reconstructs images by sampling a scene with a series of masks and associating the knowledge of these masks with the corresponding intensity measured with a single-pixel detector. Though not performing as well as digital cameras in conventional visible imaging, single-pixel imaging has been demonstrated to be advantageous in unconventional applications, such as multi-wavelength imaging, terahertz imaging, X-ray imaging, and three-dimensional imaging. The developments and working principles of single-pixel imaging are reviewed, a mathematical interpretation is given, and the key elements are analyzed. The research works of three-dimensional single-pixel imaging and their potential applications are further reviewed and discussed.
How to Allocate Carbon Emission Permits Among China’s Industrial Sectors Under the Constraint of Carbon Intensity?
Authors: Zhou Jianguo , Li Yushuo , Huo Xuejing , Xu Xiaolei
Published: February 2019

With the official launch of China’s national unified carbon trading system (ETS) in 2017, it has played an increasingly important role in controlling the growth of carbon dioxide emissions. One of the core issues in carbon trading is the allocation of initial carbon emissions permits. Since the industry emits the largest amount of carbon dioxide in China, a study on the allocation of carbon emission permits among China’s industrial sectors is necessary to promote industry carbon abatement efficiency. In this study, industrial carbon emissions permits are allocated to 37 sub-sectors of China to reach the emission reduction target of 2030 considering the carbon marginal abatement cost, carbon abatement responsibility, carbon abatement potential, and carbon abatement capacity. A hybrid approach that integrates data envelop analysis (DEA), the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), and principal component analysis (PCA) is proposed to allocate carbon emission permits. The results of this study are as follows: First, under the constraint of carbon intensity, the carbon emission permits of the total industry in 2030 will be 8792 Mt with an average growth rate of 3.27%, which is 1.57 times higher than that in 2016. Second, the results of the carbon marginal abatement costs show that light industrial sectors and high-tech industrial sectors have a higher abatement cost, while energy-intensive heavy chemical industries have a lower abatement cost. Third, based on the allocation results, there are six industrial sub-sectors that have obtained major carbon emission permits, including the smelting and pressing of ferrous metals (S24), manufacturing of raw chemical materials and chemical products (S18), manufacturing of non-metallic mineral products (S23), smelting and pressing of non-ferrous metals (S25), production and supply of electric power and heat power (S35), and the processing of petroleum, coking, and processing of nuclear fuel (S19), accounting for 69.23% of the total carbon emissions permits. Furthermore, the study also classifies 37 industrial sectors to explore the emission reduction paths, and proposes corresponding policy recommendations for different categories.
Oncology Communities of Practice: Insights from a Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Fingrut W. , Beck L. A. , Lo D.
Published: February 2019

Background A community of practice (COP) is formally defined as a group of people who share a concern or a passion for something they do and who learn how to do it better as they interact regularly. Communities of practice represent a promising approach for improving cancer care outcomes. However, little research is available to guide the development of oncology COPs. In 2015, our urban community hospital launched an oncology COP, with the goals of decreasing barriers to access, fostering collaboration, and improving practitioner knowledge of guidelines and services in cancer care. Here, we share insights from a qualitative analysis of feedback from participants in our COP. The objective of the project was to identify participant perspectives about preferred COP features, with a view to improving the quality of our community hospital’s oncology COP. Methods After 5 in-person meetings of our oncology COP, participants were surveyed about what the COP should start, stop, and continue doing. Qualitative methods were used to analyze the feedback. Results The survey collected 250 comments from 117 unique COP participants, including family physicians, specialist physicians, nurses, and allied health care practitioners. Analysis identified participant perspectives about the key features of the COP and avenues for improvement across four themes: supporting knowledge exchange, identifying and addressing practice gaps, enhancing interprofessional collaboration, and fostering a culture of partnership. Conclusions Based on the results, we identified several considerations that could be helpful in improving our COP. Our findings might help guide the development of oncology COPs at other institutions. Key Words Communities of practice, quality, collaboration, partnerships, knowledge management, knowledge preservation
Moving Research Into Practice: Summary Report of the Ex/Cancer Meeting on Physical Activity, Exercise, and Rehabilitation in Oncology
Authors: Mina D. Santa , Fong A.J. , Petrella A.R. , Culos-Reed S.N. , Chasen M. , Sabiston C.M.
Published: February 2019

The development of evidence-based exercise guidelines for people with cancer represents a major achievement in research and provides direction to programming initiatives. The prevalence of sedentary cancer survivors and the risk posed by inactivity suggests a knowledge-to-action gap for which the evidence has not led to increased exercise levels in that population. To address that gap, researchers continue to explore opportunities to improve the understanding of exercise within the oncologic context—from tumour biology to behaviour-change theories—to drive improved access and participation in exercise and rehabilitative activity. In Canada, such efforts have largely been invested by individuals and small teams across the country rather than by unifying stakeholders to drive nationwide impact. Accordingly, a national group of leading researchers, clinicians, and other stakeholders convened a meeting to discuss and strategize initiatives on how to conduct innovative research into the effects of exercise and rehabilitation in cancer survivors, to increase access to exercise and rehabilitation services in cancer survivors, and to reduce sedentary behaviour in cancer survivors. The 2-day meeting, titled Ex/Cancer, was held April 2017 in Toronto, Ontario, and was attended by 83 stakeholders from across Canada, representing knowledge end-users (cancer survivors), clinicians (oncologists, nurses, counsellors), a provincial cancer care agency, community-based exercise and cancer organizations, and researchers. Attendees participated in networking events, roundtable discussions, and breakout sessions to identify, discuss, and develop clinical and research experiences and opportunities. In addition to knowledge exchange between attendees, the meeting set the foundation for the development of a collaborative network to support the development, dissemination, and support of clinical and research activity in exercise and rehabilitation for cancer survivors. With unanimous support from attendees, a major product of the Ex/Cancer meeting was the formation of the Canadian Oncology Rehabilitation and Exercise Network—COREN.
Incidence of Spinal Disease and Role of Spinal Radiotherapy in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Sharma A.M. , Sackett M. , Bueddefeld D. , Lambert P. , Dubey A. , Wadhwa V. , Kotb R. , Ahmed N.
Published: February 2019

Background: Spinal disease (SPD) in multiple myeloma (MM) can be a major source of morbidity in newly diagnosed patients and long-term survivors. We retrospectively assessed the incidence of spinal disease in patients newly diagnosed with myeloma, its effect on survival, and the possible effect of spinal radiation therapy (RT). Methods: Patients diagnosed with MM between 2010 and 2014 were identified through the provincial cancer registry. Plain radiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging were reviewed to detect and document the type of SPD. Data related to RT and systemic therapy were collected. Kaplan–Meier and time-varying Cox regression models were used to describe overall survival. Results: Of 306 identified patients with newly diagnosed MM, 51% had SPD, including 17% with lytic disease, 68% with compression fractures, and 15% with spinal cord compression. Of the patients with SPD, 61% received spinal RT. Of those patients, 84% received spinal RT within 3 months after their diagnosis. Median dose was 20 Gy. Most patients (89.2%) received chemotherapy, and 22.5% underwent autologous stem-cell transplantation. Only 6 of the patients treated with spinal RT received re-irradiation to the same site. Overall survival was similar for patients with and without SPD. On multivariate analysis, spinal RT had no effect on survival. Conclusions: In patients newly diagnosed with MM, SPD is a common presentation. With current systemic therapy, the presence of SPD had no adverse effect on overall survival. The effect of spinal RT on overall survival was nonsignificant.
THE VIBROACOUSTICAL RESEARCH OF ROLL BEARINGS DEFECTS
Authors: Juodzevičius Eimantas
Published: February 2019

This article presents the description, results and conclusions of the methodology of the vibroacoustical research of the transmission of one of the units of a tactical car- of the bevel bearings of the main gear reducer. To explore the vibroacoustical research of the roll bearings with reference to the latest western literature the main diagnostic methods are used. Their advantages and disadvantages, the limits of the vibration frequencies, where the assessment of acoustical parameters of vibration, are analyzed. The defects of the bearings are identified exploring the level of the noise intensiveness in the proximate points fiom the bearings, components (changing the diametric clearance), and the results are presented in the form of the spectra of the amplitude surrounding.
DYNAMIC PROCESSES IN THE OIL PIPELINES. PART II. THE LEAK IDENTIFICATION BY NUMERICAL METHODS
Authors: Bajoraitytė Ingrida , Bogdevičius Marijonas
Published: February 2019

The analysis of identification method of leaks occurring due to damages of the linear part of the main oil pipelines is carried out. The momentum and continuity equations of viscous compressible fluid in a pressure pipeline are presented. Differential equations of fluid movement in the oil pipeline are solved by the method of characteristics. Variation diagrams of pressure and velocity of fluid of a leaking oil pipeline are presented.
THE PRINCIPLES OF ANALYSIS OF COMPETITIVENESS AND CONTROL SCHEMES IN TRANSPORT SERVICES
Authors: Žvirblis Algis
Published: February 2019

Under the conditions of constantly growing competition Transportation companies are faced with theoretical and practical problems associated with the quality and stability of transport services, competitiveness on the market and marketing problems. Road transport services are considered in the terms of value analysis while the assessment of their competitiveness is based on the Pontriagin maximum principle.

A model for transport risk analysis is constructed, taking into account the principles of correlation and co -variation of transport services. Formalized models of automated control of services in the system of marketing allowing the analysis of stability and other parameters to be made in the framework of automatic control theory are offered.
EFFICIENCY ESTIMATION OF TRANSPORT COMPANIES' ACTIVITY
Authors: Vyskupaitis Andrius
Published: February 2019

In this article methodological subjects of activities efficiency research of the transport companies as well as other complex systems are analyzed. Methodically it is the most important to select estimation indexes of efficiency of searching object activities. After the system of indexes is formed, it is determined that it is more useful to use the system of technical economic indexes in order to estimate the level of efficiency of the activities of transport companies. It is so, because none of the separate indexes individually is able comprehensively to reflect the activities of transport systems or separate companies. Using the proposed method it is possible to research the great amount of objects according to numerous indexes. The main task is to form conditionally monolithic groups from the totality of objects. The level of activities of the objects in these groups should be similar. It would be possible to solve this task with the help of the image identification theory. The essence of this theory is to used necessary algorithm for the identification of searching objects signs. On this basis each object is reckoned in a certain monolithic objects group. Next step is the use of classification algorithms, which enable to classify the whole of searching objects. In this article you would fmd two main stages of classification problem solution. In the first stage the expansion of the objects into monolithic groups according to one of the indexes goes. The quality of this stage depends on the amount of the groups and on the selection of a concrete index. In the second stage the final objects expansion into monolithic groups according to the whole of selected technicaleconomic level indexes goes. Here is the manifold classification of the objects. Its results enable to determine the efficiency level of transport systems activities as well as to improve the quality of planning transport company's activities.
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF CIRCUMSTANCES AND EVIDENCES OF AN ACCIDENT AND THEIR APPLICTION IN RESEARCH
Authors: Tautkus Arūnas , Jurkauskas Algirdas
Published: February 2019

An accident depends on a lot of factors and circumstances. The estabilishment of factors, different evidences and circumstances are very important for research. Some important evidences are fixed when we make photos, do the the measurements of the deformation of means of transport, do the measurements of sliding and of stopping, estimate the condition of road and weather, driver's and pedestrian's actions, do cross-examination of witnesses and so on.

We often have no result even if we know the main circumstances of the accident. So we need some engineer countings for the modelling of various situations.

The method of linear momentum is presented in this article. It is used for the counting of parameters of accidents. The accident diagram gives information for us. We can do the research of an accident with the help of this method and software. So the research into the collision of cars was done with the help of this method and software.
THE CRASH ENERGY ABSORPTION OF THE VEHICLES FRONT STRUCTURES
Authors: Griškevičius Paulius , Žiliukas Antanas
Published: February 2019

During the frontal crash the longerons absorb most energy of all vehicles construction elements. In order to analyse the energy absorbing capabilities of longerons under axial compression loading and to evaluate the influence of longerons geometrical characteristics and materials degradation on the vehicles safety experimental investigations and numerical calculations were performed. To assess the crashworthiness of longerons the main objective was to study the behaviour of thin-walled structural elements under axial loading conditions using the Finite Element (FE) model. The numerical FE models were created using the computer code LS-DYNA.

Two models of longerons were investigated with different sections shape and for each of them materials with the four different mechanical characteristics were applied. Validation of created FE model was performed according to the experimental investigation and the results were obtained of validated FE models of vehicles crash analysis [1].

The results of analyses show that the value of absorbed energy by the longerons of new vehides exceeds the value of the oldest cars. The degradation of structures in the old cars has the significant influence on the absorbed energy.
PREDICTION IN LOGISTICS USING FUNCTIONS WITH FLEXIBLE STRUCTURE
Authors: Fadina Olga , Mazūra Mindaugas
Published: February 2019

The economic forecasts are aimed at determining major trends of logistics development as well as defining the particular aims and objectives oftheir functioning. Therefore, the prediction in logistics should reveal major changes in micro and macro factors to obtain the probability criteria of quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the dynamics of logistics activities required by the firm manager. Some methods of predicting the development of the logistics system based on the application of functions with flexible structure and of evaluating the accuracy and truth (reliability) of forecasts are offered.
SEARCH OF THE ROUTE IN THE NETWORK OF PUBLIC COMMUNICATION USING A LINEAR SEQUENCE METHOD
Authors: Keršys Artūras , Jurkauskas Algirdas
Published: February 2019

The problem of searching the route in the network of public communication is being investigated in the article. A new line sequence method working on the base of a real network model is created for route research in transport communication network and the problem solution. Having analysed a modeling peculiarity of passenger behavior choosing the route, the route evaluation and comparison of the resistance function, including the factors for the route chaise are defined: traveling time, cost and comfort (number of changes). On the base of the mathematic calculation results of public transport communication a part model was determined. It offered the method of the work that can be used for the solution of the examined problem and integrated into the prognosis models of communication processes.