bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of Solid Waste as a Substrate for Production of Oil from Oleaginous Microorganisms
Authors: Laker Fortunate , Agaba Arnold , Akatukunda Andrew , Gazet Robert , Barasa Joshua , Nanyonga Sarah , Wendiro Deborah , Wacoo Alex Paul
Published: May 2018

The overwhelming demand of oil and fats to meet the ever increasing needs for biofuel, cosmetics production, and other industrial purposes has enhanced a number of innovations in this industry. One such innovation is the use of microorganisms as alternative sources of oil and fats. Organic solid waste that is causing a big challenge of disposal worldwide is biodegradable and can be utilized as substrate for alternative oil production. The study evaluated the potential of isolated yeast-like colonies to grow and accumulate oil by using organic solid waste as substrate. Of the 25 yeast-like colonies isolated from the soil samples collected from three different suburbs in Kampala district, Uganda, 20 were screened positive for accumulation of lipid but only 2 were oleaginous. The NHC isolate with the best oil accumulation potential of 48.8% was used in the central composite design (CCD) experiments. The CCD experimental results revealed a maximum oil yield of 61.5% from 1.25 g/L cell biomass at 10 g/L of solid waste and temperature of 25°C. The study revealed that organic solid waste could be used as a substrate for microbial oil production.
Remote Lifestyle Coaching Plus a Connected Glucose Meter with Certified Diabetes Educator Support Improves Glucose and Weight Loss for People with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Bollyky Jennifer B. , Bravata Dena , Yang Jason , Williamson Mark , Schneider Jennifer
Published: May 2018

Background. Connected health devices with lifestyle coaching can provide real-time support for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, the intensity of lifestyle coaching needed to achieve outcomes is unknown. Methods. Livongo provides connected, two-way messaging glucose meters, unlimited blood glucose (BG) test strips, and access to certified diabetes educators. We evaluated the incremental effects of adding lifestyle coaching on BG, estimated HbA1c, and weight. We randomized 330 eligible adults (T2D, HbA1c > 7.5%, BMI ≥ 25) to receive no further intervention (n=75), a connected scale (n=115), scale plus lightweight coaching (n=73), or scale plus intense coaching (n=67) for 12 weeks. We evaluated the change in outcomes using ANOVA. Results. Livongo participation alone resulted in improved BG control (mean HbA1c declined: 8.5% to 7.5%, p=0.01). Mean weight loss and additional BG decreases were higher in the intensive compared with the lightweight coaching and scale-only groups (weight change (lb): −6.4, −4.1, and −1.1, resp., p=0.01; BG change (mg/dL): −19.4, −11.3, and −2.9, resp., p=0.02). The estimated 12-week program costs were 5.5 times more for intensive than lightweight coaching. Conclusion. Livongo participation significantly improves BG control in people with T2D. Additional lifestyle coaching may be a cost-effective intervention to achieve further glucose control and weight loss.
Human Genetic Markers and Structural Prediction ofPlasmodium falciparumMultidrug Resistance Gene(pfmdr1)for Ligand Binding in Pregnant Women Attending General Hospital Minna
Authors: Lawal B. , Shittu O. K. , Abubakar A. , Kabiru A. Y.
Published: May 2018

The study aims to determine the association of malaria infection with ABO blood groups and genotype and also to detect point mutations at positions 86, 184, 1034, and 1042 of thePlasmodium falciparummultidrug resistance gene(pfmdr1)in blood samples collected from pregnant women attending General Hospital Minna. Out of 250 pregnant women screened, 39 (15.60%) had malaria infection. Prevalence was higher in women, during the third trimester (46.15%), genotype AA (64.10%), and O blood group (53.84%) individuals when compared with others. There was significant (p<0.05) decrease in Packed Cell Volume (PCV), hemoglobin (HGB), Red Blood Cells (RBC), and platelet (PLC) count in infected group when compared with noninfected group. Although, two of the isolates showed disrupted protein sequence at codon 1034–1042, no mutation was found in any of theP. falciparumisolates. Structural prediction of chemical ligand led to the identification of Neu5Acα2-3Galβ1-3/β1-4Glc/GlcNAc. This compound can theoretically bind and change the functional integrity of the pfmdr1 protein, thus providing a new window for malaria drug target.
CFD Prediction of Airfoil Drag in Viscous Flow Using the Entropy Generation Method
Authors: Wang Wei , Wang Jun , Liu Hui , Jiang Bo-yan
Published: May 2018

A new aerodynamic force of drag prediction approach was developed to compute the airfoil drag via entropy generation rate in the flow field. According to the momentum balance, entropy generation and its relationship to drag were derived for viscous flow. Model equations for the calculation of the local entropy generation in turbulent flows were presented by extending the RANS procedure to the entropy balance equation. The accuracy of algorithm and programs was assessed by simulating the pressure coefficient distribution and dragging coefficient of different airfoils under different Reynolds number at different attack angle. Numerical data shows that the total entropy generation rate in the flow field and the drag coefficient of the airfoil can be related by linear equation, which indicates that the total drag could be resolved into entropy generation based on its physical mechanism of energy loss.
Beneficial Effects of Concentrated Growth Factors and Resveratrol on Human OsteoblastsIn VitroTreated with Bisphosphonates
Authors: Borsani Elisa , Bonazza Veronica , Buffoli Barbara , Nocini Pier Francesco , Albanese Massimo , Zotti Francesca , Inchingolo Francesco , Rezzani Rita , Rodella Luigi F.
Published: May 2018

Bisphosphonates are primary pharmacological agents against osteoclast-mediated bone loss and widely used in the clinical practice for prevention and treatment of a variety of skeletal conditions, such as low bone density and osteogenesis imperfecta, and pathologies, such as osteoporosis, malignancies metastatic to bone, Paget disease of bone, multiple myeloma, and hypercalcemia of malignancy. However, long-term bisphosphonate treatment is associated with pathologic conditions including osteonecrosis of the jaw, named BRONJ, which impaired bone regeneration process. Clinical management of BRONJ is controversy and one recent approach is the use of platelet concentrates, such as Concentrated Growth Factors, alone or together with biomaterials or antioxidants molecules, such as resveratrol. The aim of the present study was to investigate thein vitroeffects of Concentrated Growth Factors and/or resveratrol on the proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblasts, treated or not with bisphosphonates. Human osteoblasts were stimulated for 3 days in complete medium and for 21 days in mineralization medium. At the end of the experimental period, thein vitroeffect on osteoblast proliferation and differentiation was evaluated using different techniques such as MTT, ELISA for the quantification/detection of osteoprotegerin and bone morphogenetic protein-2, immunohistochemistry for sirtuin 1 and collagen type I, and the Alizarin Red S staining for the rate of mineralization. Results obtained showed that Concentrated Growth Factors and/or resveratrol significantly increased osteoblast proliferation and differentiation and that the cotreatment with Concentrated Growth Factors and resveratrol had a protective role on osteoblasts treated with bisphosphonates. In conclusion, these data suggest that this approach could be promised in the clinical management of BRONJ.
Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 and Tissue Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 in Sepsis after Major Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Bojic Suzana , Kotur-Stevuljevic Jelena , Aleksic Aleksandra , Gacic Jasna , Memon Lidija , Simic-Ogrizovic Sanja
Published: May 2018

Background. The role of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) in sepsis after major abdominal surgery and sepsis-associated organ dysfunction is unexplored.Materials and Methods. Fifty-three patients with sepsis after major abdominal surgery were compared to 50 operated and 50 nonoperated controls. MMP-9, TIMP-1, biomarkers of inflammation, kidney and liver injury, coagulation, and metabolic disorders were measured daily during 96 h following diagnosis of sepsis and once in controls. MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratios and disease severity scores were calculated. Use of vasopressors/inotropes, mechanical ventilation, and survival were recorded.Results. Septic patients had lower MMP-9 and MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratios but higher TIMP-1 levels compared to controls. AUC-ROC for diagnosis of sepsis was 0.940 and 0.854 for TIMP-1 and 0.924 and 0.788 for MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio (sepsis versus nonoperated and sepsis versus operated controls, resp.). Lower MMP-9 and MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio and higher TIMP-1 levels were associated with shorter survival. MMP-9, TIMP-1, and MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio correlated with biomarkers of inflammation, kidney and liver injury, coagulation, metabolic disorders, and disease severity scores. Use of vasopressors/inotropes was associated with higher TIMP-1 levels.Conclusions. MMP-9, TIMP-1, and MMP-9/TIMP ratio were good diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers of sepsis after major abdominal surgery and were linked to sepsis-associated organ dysfunction.
Endo-Perio Lesion and Uncontrolled Diabetes
Authors: Dhoum Sara , Laslami Kaoutar , Rouggani Fatimazahraa , El Ouazzani Amal , Jabri Mouna
Published: May 2018

This work is to discuss the management of an endo-perio lesion, which represents a challenge to clinicians when it comes to diagnosis and prognosis of the involved teeth and especially with an altered general condition. A 50-year-old female patient with uncontrolled diabetes type 2 is suffering from a purulent discharge coming from the upper right canine. Endodontic and periodontal treatments were realized with 36 months radiological and clinical follow-up with the collaboration of her internist doctor.
A Hybrid Maximum Power Point Tracking Approach for Photovoltaic Systems under Partial Shading Conditions Using a Modified Genetic Algorithm and the Firefly Algorithm
Authors: Huang Yu-Pei , Chen Xiang , Ye Cheng-En
Published: May 2018

This paper proposes a modified maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm for photovoltaic systems under rapidly changing partial shading conditions (PSCs). The proposed algorithm integrates a genetic algorithm (GA) and the firefly algorithm (FA) and further improves its calculation process via a differential evolution (DE) algorithm. The conventional GA is not advisable for MPPT because of its complicated calculations and low accuracy under PSCs. In this study, we simplified the GA calculations with the integration of the DE mutation process and FA attractive process. Results from both the simulation and evaluation verify that the proposed algorithm provides rapid response time and high accuracy due to the simplified processing. For instance, evaluation results demonstrate that when compared to the conventional GA, the execution time and tracking accuracy of the proposed algorithm can be, respectively, improved around 69.4% and 4.16%. In addition, in comparison to FA, the tracking speed and tracking accuracy of the proposed algorithm can be improved around 42.9% and 1.85%, respectively. Consequently, the major improvement of the proposed method when evaluated against the conventional GA and FA is tracking speed. Moreover, this research provides a framework to integrate multiple nature-inspired algorithms for MPPT. Furthermore, the proposed method is adaptable to different types of solar panels and different system formats with specifically designed equations, the advantages of which are rapid tracking speed with high accuracy under PSCs.
NMR, Novel Pharmacological and In Silico Docking Studies of Oxyacanthine and Tetrandrine: Bisbenzylisoquinoline Alkaloids Isolated fromBerberis glaucocarpaRoots
Authors: Alamzeb Muhammad , Omer Muhammad , Ur-Rashid Mamoon , Raza Muslim , Ali Saqib , Khan Behramand , Ullah Asad
Published: May 2018

Urease enzyme is responsible for gastric cancer, peptic ulcer, hepatic coma, and urinary stones in millions of people across the world. So, there is a strong need to develop new and safe antiurease drugs, particularly from natural sources. In search for new and effective drugs from natural sources bioassay-guided fractionation and isolation ofBerberis glaucocarpaStapf roots bark resulted in the isolation and characterization, on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR data, of two bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids, oxyacanthine (1) and tetrandrine (2), followed by urease inhibition studies. Crude extract, all the subfractions and the isolated compounds1and2displayed excellent urease enzyme inhibition propertiesin vitro. The antiurease nature and possible mode of action for compounds1and2were verified and explained through their molecular docking studies against jack-bean urease enzyme. Half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) was calculated for compounds1and2. The IC50value was found to be 6.35 and 5.51 µg/mL for compounds1and2, respectively. Both compounds1and2have minimal cytotoxicity against THP-1 monocytic cells.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Depression in an Asian Community in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Moledina Sibtain M. , Bhimji Khadija M. , Manji Karim P.
Published: May 2018

Depression is a common condition in developed countries and is a growing problem in developing countries like Tanzania. Various risk factors have been identified through different studies. This study aimed at finding the prevalence of depression in a predominantly migrant Asian community and the behavioral, familial, social, and medical factors influencing it. A cross-sectional study among adults in a closed Asian community was done. Interviews and self-administered questionnaires were used to obtain details of symptoms and factors related to depression. DSM-IV criteria were used to diagnose depression in the individuals. Factors were assessed for significance using Chi square test. A total 384 participants were interviewed. Depression was found in 6.5% of the population. Risk factors included psychological stress (p<0.001, OR = 6.37, 95% CI = 2.42–16.69) and a family history of depression (p=0.023, OR = 2.57, 95% CI = 1.02–6.42). A sufficient family income was associated with a lower risk of depression (p=0.013, OR = 0.21, 95% CI = 0.06–0.77). The prevalence of depression is within the range of the worldwide prevalence. Past psychological trauma and a family history of depression were significant risk factors, while a sufficient income was protective.
In Vitro Priming of Adoptively Transferred T Cells with a RORγ Agonist Confers Durable Memory and Stemness In Vivo
Authors: Hu Xiao , Majchrzak Kinga , Liu Xikui , Wyatt Megan M. , Spooner Chauncey J. , Moisan Jacques , Zou Weiping , Carter Laura L. , Paulos Chrystal M.
Published: May 2018

Adoptive T-cell transfer therapy is an FDA- approved treatment for leukemia that relies on the ex vivo expansion and reinfusion of a patient's immune cells, which can be engineered with a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) for more efficient tumor recognition. Type 17 T cells, controlled transcriptionally by RORγ, have been reported to mediate potent antitumor effects superior to those observed with conventionally expanded T cells. Here, we demonstrate that addition of a synthetic, small-molecule RORγ agonist during ex vivo expansion potentiates the antitumor activity of human Th17 and Tc17 cells redirected with a CAR. Likewise, ex vivo use of this agonist bolstered the antitumor properties of murine tumor-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Expansion in the presence of the RORγ agonist enhanced IL17A production without compromising IFNγ secretion in vitro. In vivo, cytokine neutralization studies revealed that IFNγ and IL17A were required to regress murine melanoma tumors. The enhanced antitumor effect of RORγ agonist treatment was associated with recovery of more donor T cells in the tumor and spleen; these cells produced elevated levels of cytokines months after infusion and expressed markers of long-lived stem and central memory cells such as Tcf7 and CD62L. Conversely, untreated cells mainly exhibited effector phenotypes in the tumor. Cured mice previously treated with agonist-primed T cells were protected from tumor rechallenge. Collectively, our work reveals that in vitro treatment with a RORγ agonist generates potent antitumor Type 17 effector cells that persist as long-lived memory cells in vivo.

Significance: RORγ agonists can be used in vitro during T-cell expansion to enhance the efficacy of adoptive cell therapy (e.g., CAR-T) and to provide long-term protection against tumors.

Graphical Abstract: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/78/14/3888/F1.large.jpg. Cancer Res; 78(14); 3888–98. ©2018 AACR.
Targeting the IDH2 Pathway in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Amaya Maria L. , Pollyea Daniel A.
Published: May 2018

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive disease with a poor prognosis. A large percentage of patients succumb to this disease in spite of aggressive treatments with chemotherapy. Recent advances with mutational analysis led to the discovery of isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutations in AML. IDH2 is an enzyme that catalyzes the oxidative decarboxylation of isocitrate to α-ketoglutarate; its mutated version leads to the accumulation of the oncometabolite (R)-2 hydroxyglutarate, which disrupts several cell processes and leads to a blockage in differentiation. Targeting IDH2 is compelling, as it is an early and stable mutation in AML. Enasidenib, a specific small-molecule inhibitor of IDH2, recently gained FDA approval for the treatment of patients with relapsed/refractory IDH2-mutated AML. In this review, we will focus on the indications and efficacy of enasidenib in the treatment of patients with IDH2-mutated AML. Clin Cancer Res; 24(20); 4931–6. ©2018 AACR.
Antifungal Innate Immunity: A Perspective from the Last 10 Years
Authors: Salazar Fabián , Brown Gordon D.
Published: May 2018

Fungal pathogens can rarely cause diseases in immunocompetent individuals. However, commensal and normally nonpathogenic environmental fungi can cause life-threatening infections in immunocompromised individuals. Over the last few decades, there has been a huge increase in the incidence of invasive opportunistic fungal infections along with a worrying increase in antifungal drug resistance. As a consequence, research focused on understanding the molecular and cellular basis of antifungal immunity has expanded tremendously in the last few years. This review will provide an overview of the most exciting recent advances in innate antifungal immunity, discoveries that are helping to pave the way for the development of new strategies that are desperately needed to combat these devastating diseases.
Fibrinopeptide A Induces Expression of C-Reactive Protein via the ROS-ERK1/2/ P38-NF-κB Signal Pathway in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Xu Shouzhu , Zhao Jing , Liu Juntian  , Gou Wei
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease in the artery walls. Fibrinopeptide A (FPA) is a biomarker of the activation of coagulation system, and a high concentration of FPA in blood occurs in patients with ischemic heart disease etc. However, there exist few studies on the pathological effects of FPA in cardiovascular system. Therefore, the present study examined the effect of FPA on CRP expression in VSMCs and the molecular mechanisms. Methods: mRNA and protein expression was identified by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot, respectively. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the immunofluorescence staining were observed by a fluorescence microscope. Plasma FPA and CRP level was determined by ELISA. Results: FPA induced the expressions of CRP, IL-1β and IL-6 in VSMCs, and anti-IL-1β and anti-IL-6 neutralizing antibodies partially reduced FPA-induced CRP expression in VSMCs. The subchronic administration of FPA to rats increased FPA level in plasma and CRP expression in the aortic artery walls. The further studies showed that FPA promoted superoxide anion generation in VSMCs. Antioxidant NAC antagonized FPA-stimulated superoxide anion generation and inhibited FPA-induced CRP expression in VSMCs. FPA activated ERK1/2 and p38 phosphorylation, and PD98059 and SB203580 reduced FPA-induced CRP expression. Moreover, NAC inhibited the activation of ERK1/2 and p38. In addition, FPA enhanced NF-κB level in the nuclei of VSMCs, and PDTC reduced FPA-induced expression of CRP. Conclusions: FPA induces CRP expression in VSMCs via ROS-ERK1/2/p38-NF-κB signal pathway. This finding for the first time provides an experimental evidence for pro-inflammatory effect of FPA.
Neuroprotection Against Hypoxic/Ischemic Injury: δ-Opioid Receptors and BDNF-TrkB Pathway
Authors: Sheng Shiying , Huang Jingzhong , Ren Yi , Zhi Feng , Tian Xuansong , Wen Guoqiang , Ding Guanghong , Xia Terry C. , Hua Fei , Xia Ying
Published: May 2018

The delta-opioid receptor (DOR) is one of three classic opioid receptors in the opioid system. It was traditionally thought to be primarily involved in modulating the transmission of messages along pain signaling pathway. Although there were scattered studies on its other neural functions, inconsistent results and contradicting conclusions were found in past literatures, especially in terms of DOR’s role in a hypoxic/ischemic brain. Taking inspiration from the finding that the turtle brain exhibits a higher DOR density and greater tolerance to hypoxic/ischemic insult than the mammalian brain, we clarified DOR’s specific role in the brain against hypoxic/ischemic injury and reconciled previous controversies in this aspect. Our serial studies have strongly demonstrated that DOR is a unique neuroprotector against hypoxic/ischemic injury in the brain, which has been well confirmed in current research. Moreover, mechanistic studies have shown that during acute phases of hypoxic/ischemic stress, DOR protects the neurons mainly by the stabilization of ionic homeostasis, inhibition of excitatory transmitter release, and attenuation of disrupted neuronal transmission. During prolonged hypoxia/ischemia, however, DOR neuroprotection involves a variety of signaling pathways. More recently, our data suggest that DOR may display its neuroprotective role via the BDNF-TrkB pathway. This review concisely summarizes the progress in this field.
The Construction of Ptolemaic Alexandria in Contemporary Historiography
Authors: Clímaco Joana Campos
Published: May 2018

O propósito deste artigo é mapear alguns debates acadêmicos que permeiam a bibliografia a respeito de Alexandria, principalmente com relação ao episód io de sua fundação por Alexandre, ao modo como os ptolomeus estabeleceram seu reinado na cidade e à forma como sua ordenação social e cultural é percebida. Ou seja, iremos pontuar algumas maneiras pelas quais a cidade foi definida e entendida na historiografia.
Comprehensive Multicenter Study of the Common Isthmus in Post–Atrial Fibrillation Ablation Multiple-Loop Atrial Tachycardia
Authors: Takigawa Masateru , Derval Nicolas , Maury Philippe , Martin Ruairidh , Denis Arnaud , Miyazaki Shinsuke , Yamashita Seigo , Frontera Antonio , Vlachos Konstantinos , Kitamura Takeshi , Cheniti Ghassen , Massoullieé Greégoire , Thompson Nathaniel , Martin Claire A. , Wolf Michael , Pillois Xavier , Duchateau Josselin , Klotz Nicolas , Duparc Alexandre , Rollin Anne , Pambrun Thomas , Sacher Frédéric , Cochet Hubert , Hocini Mélèze , Haïssaguerre Michel , Jaïs Pierre
Published: May 2018

Background:

Characteristics of multiple-loop atrial tachycardia (AT) circuits have never precisely examined.

Methods:

In 193 consecutive post–atrial fibrillation ablation patients with AT, 44 multiple-loop ATs including 42 dual-loop AT and 2 triple-loop AT in 41 (21.2%) were diagnosed with the high-resolution mapping system and analyzed off-line.

RESULTS:

In dual-loop ATs, 3 types were identified: type M, a combination of 2 anatomic macroreentrant ATs (AMATs) in 19 (43.2%); type MN, with 1 AMAT and 1 non-AMAT in 12 (27.3%); and type N with 2 non-AMATs in 11 (25.0%). The remaining 2 triple-loop ATs (4.5%) were a combination of perimitral-, roof-dependent-, and non-AMAT. At least 1 AMAT was included in 33 (75.0%), and 1 non-AMAT in 25 (56.8%). Of the ATs with at least 1 non-AMAT circuit, a pulmonary vein formed part of the circuit in 16/25 (64.0%). The length of the common isthmus was 3.6±1.4 cm in type M, 1.6±0.7 cm in type MN, and 1.1±0.7 cm in type N (
P
<0.0001). The area of the common isthmus was 12.92±7.68, 2.46±1.53, and 0.90±0.81 cm
2
, in Type M, MN, and N (
P
<0.0001). The narrowest width of the common isthmus was 1.8±0.7 cm, 1.1±0.3 cm, and 0.7±0.3 cm in type M, MN, and N (
P
<0.0001), respectively. The electrograms in the common isthmus showed longer duration and lower voltage in type N, type MN, and type M (duration: 106±25 ms, 87±27 ms, and 69±27 ms;
P
=0.006; and voltage: 0.06±0.02 mV, 0.22±0.21 mV, and 0.57±0.50 mV;
P
<0.0001), respectively.

Conclusions:

Multiple-loop ATs are complex, frequently including anatomic circuits. They have specific characteristics determined by the combination of AMAT and non-AMAT.
The Stephanidae (Hymenoptera, Stephanoidea) of Iran with the description of a new species
Authors: Moghaddam Mostafa Ghafouri , Rakhshani Ehsan , Arabzadeh Mohammad Ali , Derafshan Hossein Ali , Kavallieratos Nickolas G.
Published: May 2018

Stephanidae (Hymenoptera, Stephanoidea) are solitary idiobiont ectoparasitoids of wood boring insect larvae. Here we present two genera, i.e., Afromegischus
van Achterberg, 2002 and Foenatopus Smith, 1861, and five species, i.e., A. gigas (Schletterer, 1889), F. bisignatus
Aguiar & Jennings, 2010, F. crispus Aguiar, 2010, F. nimaarkanii Ghafouri Moghaddam & Rakhshani sp. n. and F. prousti Aguiar & Turrisi, 2010 from Iran. Specimens were collected in southeastern Iran (Kerman and Sistan-o Baluchestan) from unknown hosts. Their morphological features and distribution are discussed in relation to the overall knowledge in the target and adjacent regions. Foenatopus nimaarkanii
sp. n. is incorporated to the key for the identification of Foenatopus species with double spots on metasomal tergites.
A new genus, four new species and taxonomic and geographic notes in Mexican Cerambycidae
Authors: SANTOS-SILVA ANTONIO , BOTERO JUAN PABLO , TIRANT STÉPHANE LE
Published: May 2018

Four new Mexican species are described: Ironeus curoei from Guerrero state, Psyrassa garciai from Tamaulipas state, Psyrassa belangeri from Guerrero state (Elaphidiini, Cerambycinae); and Cirrhicera bankoi from Chiapas state (Hemilophini, Lamiinae). A new Hesperophanini genus, Makromastax, and a new combination, Makromastax mandibularis are proposed. The current key to the Mexican genera of Hesperophanini is updated to include the new genus. Haplidus nitidus Chemsak and Linsley, 1963 is proposed as synonyms of Haplidus mandibularis Chemsak and Linsley, 1963. The male of Eburia (E.) girouxae is illustrated by the first time and Anelaphus hirtus is redescribed and figured. The geographical distribution of 9 species is expanded, the type locality of Osmidus guttatus is corrected, and Neocompsa intrincata is excluded from the fauna of the United States of America.
Fleas (Siphonaptera) of Turkey: species composition, geographical distribution and host associations
Authors: KESKIN ADEM , HASTRITER MICHAEL W. , BEAUCOURNU JEAN-CLAUDE
Published: May 2018

A list of the fleas species reported from Turkey is provided, with their geographical distribution and host associations. A total of 115 flea taxa (83 species, 32 subspecies) belonging to 36 genera and seven families are listed. The most common families are Ctenophthalmidae (n= 44) and Ceratophyllidae (27), followed by Ischnopsyllidae (13), Leptopsyllidae (11), Pulicidae (11), Vermipsyllidae (5) and Hystrichopsyllidae (4).
A multiplex PCR method for identification of two common true cutworm species (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) tested in the central plain of Guilan province, Iran
Authors: HOSSEINI REZA , MADAHI KHADIJEH
Published: May 2018

Many species of cutworms (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) are important agricultural pest. They feed on roots and foliage of their host plants. Traditionally these species are identified based on morphological characteristics of adults. Hence identification of specimens in poor condition, immature stages and also closely related species or cryptic species is a difficult task. The basics of biological and ecological studies largely rely on an accurate species identification; consequently these investigations are impacted by potential misidentifications. In this study, we amplified 5' region of mitochondrial c cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene (DNA barcode region) of various common true cutworm species including Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel, 1766), Agrotis exclamationis (Linnaeus, 1758), Peridroma saucia (Hübner, 1808) and Xestia c-nigrum (Linnaeus, 1758) from agricultural fields of Guilan province (North of Iran). We were able to detect 66 conservative Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) among the targeted pest species and eventually design specific primers and develop a multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay as a molecular diagnostic tool for immature stages of two the most common and abundant species including A. ipsilon and X. c-nigrum in Guilan province.
New record of the genus Zombrus Marshall, 1897 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Doryctinae), with description of three new species from Vietnam
Authors: LONG KHUAT DANG , VAN ACHTERBERG CORNELIS , HOA DANG THI
Published: May 2018

The genus Zombrus Marshall, 1897, is newly recorded for Vietnam with four species. Three new species (Z. bicoloricorpus Long, sp. n., Z. flavicorpus Long & van Achterberg, sp. n., and Z. tricoloricorpus Long, sp. n.) are described and illustrated, and one species (Z. pallidiventris Cameron, 1910) is reported for the first time from Vietnam and outside Indonesia. The key to Oriental and Palaearctic species of Zombrus and a checklist with distributions of the nine species from Oriental and Palaearctic regions are provided.
Lingual Thyroid Carcinoma: A Case Report and Review of Surgical Approaches in the Literature
Authors: Stokes William , Interval Eric , Patel Rusha
Published: May 2018

Introduction:

Lingual thyroid cancer is a rare entity with a paucity of literature guiding methods of surgical treatment. Its location presents anatomic challenges with access and excision.

Objective:

We present a case of T4aN1b classical variant papillary thyroid carcinoma of the lingual thyroid that was removed without pharyngeal entry. We also present a review of the literature of this rare entity and propose a treatment algorithm to provide safe and oncologic outcomes.

Findings:

Our review of the literature found 28 case reports of lingual thyroid carcinoma that met search criteria. The trans-cervical/trans-hyoid approach was the most frequently used and provides safe oncologic outcomes. This was followed by the transoral approach and then lateral pharyngotomy. Complications reported across the series include 1 case of pharyngocutaneous fistula associated with mandibulotomy and postoperative respiratory distress requiring reintubation or emergent tracheostomy in 2 patients.

Conclusion:

The location of lingual thyroid carcinoma can be variable, and surgical management requires knowledge of adjacent involved structures to decrease the risk of dysphagia and airway compromise. In particular, for cases where there is extensive loss to swallowing mechanisms, laryngeal suspension can allow the patient to resume a normal diet after treatment.
Influence of low-velocity impact-induced delamination on electrical resistance in carbon fiber-reinforced composite laminates
Authors: Hart Robert J , Zhupanska OI
Published: May 2018

In this paper, experiments have been performed and finite element models have been developed for studying the influence of low-velocity impact damage on the four-probe electrical resistance of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer matrix laminates. Sixteen-ply and 32-ply AS4/3501-6 laminates with quasi-isotropic layup were analyzed. Electrical resistance was evaluated using a four-step procedure. First, finite element models were created in Abaqus Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for simulating low-velocity impact using a quasi-static loading approach. Second, matrix rupture in the inside plies was evaluated, and delamination analysis was performed at the corresponding interfaces to determine delamination patterns. Third, four-probe electrical finite element models were developed in Abaqus FEA for specimens before and after impact using the concept of effective conducting thickness and the delamination patterns obtained from the delamination analysis. Effects of the low-velocity impact delamination on four-probe top and oblique electrical resistance were studied. Electrical resistance predictions were compared to the experimental data. Both top and oblique resistance planes were sensitive to presence of delamination with the oblique resistance measurement being more sensitive as compared to the top resistance measurement. In addition, the resistance of the 16-ply specimens was more greatly affected by the delamination compared to the 32-ply specimens. The proposed analysis can be utilized for design of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composites with optimized damage sensing capabilities.
Risk versus Reward: When Will Travelers Go the Distance?
Authors: Tanford Sarah , Kim Esther L.
Published: May 2018

Online reviews have a powerful influence on travel purchase decisions and outweigh other considerations, including price. Price and location are primary factors influencing hotel selection. This research investigates the influence of reviews and location on travel decisions for a spring break vacation in Cancun. Prospect theory and judgmental heuristics provide a theoretical foundation for the prediction that people will exert greater effort to avoid risk versus seek reward. Participants chose between two resorts that varied in review valence and distance from the popular area in an experimental design. Participants preferred a resort with neutral versus negative reviews regardless of distance, but preference for a positive versus neutral resort declined as distance increased. When both resorts had neutral reviews, location was the main determinant of lodging choice. The findings suggest that locational superiority can be offset by negative reviews, whereas locational inferiority can be overcome by maintaining good reviews online.
Where Can Tourism-Led Growth and Economy-Driven Tourism Growth Occur?
Authors: Lin Vera Shanshan , Yang Yang , Li Gang
Published: May 2018

In this study, we investigate the causal relationships between international tourism growth and regional economic expansion in China, and more importantly, disclose the factors determining the occurrence of these relationships. The empirical results reveal that 10 of 29 regions experienced tourism-led growth (TLG) during 1978 to 2013, whereas nine regions experienced economy-driven tourism growth (EDTG). Different from the past literature, this study uses Bayesian probit models to unveil the factors influencing these different growth patterns. Our results suggest that regions with less-developed economies, larger economic sizes, and covering larger geographic areas are more likely to experience TLG, and regions with less-developed economies are more likely to experience EDTG as well. Lastly, practical implications are provided.
Teaching Sociology in a Men’s Prison: How Total Institutions Shape Pedagogy and Engagement with Content
Authors: Kallman Meghan Elizabeth
Published: May 2018

Sociology can be a highly emancipatory discipline, permitting students and researchers to identify and thus alter the structures that contour their lives. Nowhere has this been clearer to me than in teaching sociology to incarcerated students in state prisons. Drawing on nine semesters of teaching experience and a complement of semi-structured interviews, I analyze patterns and challenges that emerge in the teaching and learning of sociology in this environment. I explore how in units of sociology that challenge or denaturalize the social organization of the prison or students’ temporary identities, learning is altered and conditioned by their environment. In this sense, my analysis goes beyond other thinking on student engagement with privilege and oppression, showing that the particular social characteristics of a prison have meaningful effects on learning. I conclude by offering thoughts about the power of voice and writing, both public and private, in overcoming some of these obstacles.
Mutual information and sensitivity analysis for feature selection in customer targeting: A comparative study
Authors: Barraza Néstor , Moro Sérgio , Ferreyra Marcelo , de la Peña Adolfo
Published: May 2018

Feature selection is a highly relevant task in any data-driven knowledge discovery project. The present research focuses on analysing the advantages and disadvantages of using mutual information (MI) and data-based sensitivity analysis (DSA) for feature selection in classification problems, by applying both to a bank telemarketing case. A logistic regression model is built on the tuned set of features identified by each of the two techniques as the most influencing set of features on the success of a telemarketing contact, in a total of 13 features for MI and 9 for DSA. The latter performs better for lower values of false positives while the former is slightly better for a higher false-positive ratio. Thus, MI becomes a better choice if the intention is reducing slightly the cost of contacts without risking losing a high number of successes. However, DSA achieved good prediction results with less features.
Environmental Justice in Theory and Practice: Measuring the Equity Outcomes of Los Angeles and New York’s “Million Trees” Campaigns
Authors: Garrison Jessica Debats
Published: May 2018

Los Angeles and New York each sought to plant a million trees, prioritizing underserved neighborhoods. This paper examines how MillionTreesLA and MillionTreesNYC defined environmental justice and assesses their progress. While the literature measures distributive equity using statistics, these programs lacked quantifiable benchmarks, leading to ambiguous outcomes. While only MillionTreesNYC successfully planted a million trees, it did not prioritize underserved neighborhoods to a significant degree. In contrast, MillionTreesLA may have prioritized underserved neighborhoods, yet its records were insufficiently detailed to know for sure. Cities must connect theory and practice, adopting statistical benchmarks and improving data collection to monitor progress toward environmental justice.
“I’m a news junkie . . . I like being informed”: Mobile news use by a newspaper’s digital subscribers
Authors: Incollingo Jacqueline Soteropoulos
Published: May 2018

A mixed methods research project combining quantitative online survey results with semistructured interview data explored how a major metropolitan newspaper’s digital subscribers engage with mobile news. Themes of continuity indicate that motivations in traditional newspaper use remain salient in mobile news: information-seeking, the pleasure of reading and powerful daily habits surrounding news use. In addition, participants’ responses suggest additional situational or process gratifications from using mobile media devices, in addition to gratifications derived from content.
The Association Between Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Scores and Mortality in Patients With Sepsis During the First Week: The JSEPTIC DIC Study
Authors: Nakashima Tsuyoshi , Miyamoto Kyohei , Shimokawa Toshio , Kato Seiya , Hayakawa Mineji
Published: May 2018

Objective:

Predicting prognosis is a complex process, particularly in patients with severe sepsis or septic shock. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores for individual organs during the first week of admission and the in-hospital mortality in patients with sepsis.

Methods:

This study was a post hoc evaluation of the Japan Septic Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation study and included patients admitted to 42 intensive care units in Japan for severe sepsis or septic shock, between January 2011 and December 2013. We assessed the relationship between the organ and total SOFA scores on days 1, 3, and 7 following admission and the in-hospital mortality using logistic regression analysis.

Results:

We evaluated 2732 patients and found the in-hospital mortality rate was 29.1%. The mean age of the patients (standard deviation) was 70.5 (14.1) years, and the major primary site of infection was the abdomen (33.6%). The central nervous system (CNS) SOFA score exhibited the strongest relationship with mortality on days 1 (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.49, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.40-1.59), 3 (aOR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.62-1.89), and 7 (aOR: 1.93, 95% CI: 1.77-2.10). The coagulation SOFA scores showed a weak correlation with mortality on day 1, but a strong correlation with mortality on day 7 (aOR: 2.04, 95% CI: 1.87-2.24).

Conclusions:

The CNS SOFA scores were associated with mortality in patients with severe sepsis on days 1, 3, and 7 following hospitalization. The coagulation SOFA score was associated with mortality on day 7. In clinical situations, the CNS SOFA scores during the acute phase and the CNS SOFA and coagulation SOFA scores during the subsequent phases should be evaluated in order to determine patient prognosis.
A Comparison of Juror Decision Making in Race-Based and Sexual Orientation–Based Hate Crime Cases
Authors: Gamblin Bradlee W. , Kehn Andre , Vanderzanden Karen , Ruthig Joelle C. , Jones Kelly M. , Long Brittney L.
Published: May 2018

Several constructs have been identified as relevant to the juror decision-making process in hate crime cases. However, there is a lack of research on the relationships between these constructs and their variable influence across victim group. The purpose of the current study was to reexamine factors relevant to the juror decision-making process in hate crime cases within a structural model, and across victim group, to gauge the relative strength and explanatory power of various predictors. In the current study, 313 participants sentenced a perpetrator found guilty of a hate crime committed against either a Black man or a gay man; participants also responded to individual difference measures relevant to mock juror hate crime decision making, including prejudice toward the victim’s social group. Using path analysis, we explored the role of juror prejudice on sentencing decisions in hate crime cases as well as similarities and differences based on the victimized group. Results indicated that, when the victim was a Black man, modern racism influenced sentencing both directly and indirectly through perpetrator blame attributions, explaining 18% of the variance in sentencing. In contrast, when the victim was a gay man, modern homophobia did not directly predict sentencing, and the overall model explained only 4% of the variance in sentencing, suggesting variables beyond juror prejudice may be better suited to explain juror decision making in sexual orientation–based hate crimes. The current study suggests that the role of juror prejudice in hate crime cases varies as a function of the victimized group and raises questions about the importance of juror prejudice in the sentencing of hate crime cases, particularly antigay prejudice. The importance of blame attributions, social dominance orientation, and juror beliefs regarding penalty enhancements for hate crime cases, as well as policy implications, are also addressed.
Cutting trajectory planning of sections with complex composition for roadheader
Authors: Wang Suyu , Wu Miao
Published: May 2018

In order to realize the autonomous cutting for tunneling robot, the method of cutting trajectory planning of sections with complex composition was proposed. Firstly, based on the multi-sensor parameters, the existence, the location, and size of the dirt band were determined. The roadway section environment was modeled by grid method. Secondly, according to the cutting process and tunneling cutting characteristics, the cutting trajectory ant colony algorithm was proposed. To ensure the operation safety and avoid the cutting head collision, the expanding operation was adopt for dirt band, and the aborting strategy for the ants trapped in the local optimum was put forward to strengthen the pheromone concentration of the found path. The simulation results showed that the proposed method can be used to plan the optimal cutting trajectory. The ant colony algorithm was used to search for the shortest path to avoid collision with the dirt band, and the S-path cutting was used for the left area to fulfill section forming by following complete cover principle. All the ants have found the optimal path within 50 times iteration of the algorithm, and the simulation results were better than particle swarm optimization and basic ant colony optimization.
A new approach of kinematic geometry for error identification and compensation of industrial robots
Authors: Wang Zhi , Dong Huimin , Bai Shaoping , Wang Delun
Published: May 2018

A new approach for kinematic calibration of industrial robots, including the kinematic pair errors and the link errors, is developed in this paper based on the kinematic invariants. In most methods of kinematic calibration, the geometric errors of the robots are considered in forms of variations of the link parameters, while the kinematic pairs are assumed ideal. Due to the errors of mating surfaces in kinematic pairs, the fixed and moving axes of revolute pairs, or the fixed and moving guidelines of prismatic pairs, are separated, which can be concisely identified as the kinematic pair errors and the link errors by means of the kinematic pair errors model, including the self-adaption fitting of a ruled surface, or the spherical image curve fitting and the striction curve fitting. The approach is applied to the kinematic calibration of a SCARA robot. The discrete motion of each kinematic pair in the robot is completely measured by a coordinate measuring machine. Based on the global kinematic properties of the measured motion, the fixed and moving axes, or guidelines, of the kinematic pairs are identified, which are invariants unrelated to the positions of the measured reference points. The kinematic model of the robot is set up using the identified axes and guidelines. The results validate the approach developed has good efficiency and accuracy.
Gas turbine performance monitoring based on extended information fusion filter
Authors: Lu Feng , Huang Yihuan , Huang Jinquan , Qiu Xiaojie
Published: May 2018

Performance monitoring is a critical issue for gas turbine engine for improving the operation safety and reducing the maintenance cost. With regard to this, variants of Kalman-filters-based state estimation have been employed to detect gas turbine performance, but the classical centralized Kalman filters are subject to heavy computational effort and poor fault tolerance. A novel nonlinear fusion filter algorithm using information description with distributed architecture is proposed and applied to gas turbine performance monitoring. This methodology is developed from federated Kalman filter, and a bank of local extended information filters and one information mixer are combined with extended information fusion filter. The local state estimates and covariance calculated in parallel by the local extended information filters are integrated in the information mixer to yield a global state estimate. The global state estimate of nonlinear system is fed back to the local filters with weighted factor for next iteration. The aim of the proposed methodology is to reduce the computational efforts of state estimation and improve robustness to sensor faults in cases of gas turbine performance monitoring. The simulation results on a turbofan engine confirm the extended information fusion filter's effective capabilities in comparison to the general central ones.