bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Active Wave/Mode Control of Space Prestressed Taut Cable Net Structures
Authors: Ma Xiao-Fei , Li Tuan-Jie , Wang Zuo-Wei
Published: July 2018

The space environments and special mission demands require large-scale and high shape accuracy cable net structures. The vibration control is an essential issue for shape control and performance conservation of large flexible cable net structures. This paper investigates the hybrid active wave/mode control of space prestressed taut cable net structures. First, the traveling wave dynamic model of cable net structures is explored by elemental waveguide and propagation equations of cables together with force balance conditions and compatibility conditions of joints. Then, the active wave control model is established by using the assumption forms of wave controllers to adjust the mechanical boundaries of the controlled joints. Finally, the hybrid active wave/mode control model is proposed by constructing the mapping relationship between wave control force, modal damping and natural frequencies. The proposed control method is verified by a planar cable net structure and the results show that the hybrid active wave/mode control can give a better broadband vibration attenuation performance for space prestressed taut cable net structures.
On the smooth values of shifted almost-primes
Authors: Lü Xiaodong , Wang Zhiwei , Chen Bin
Published: July 2018

Denote by [Formula: see text] (respectively, [Formula: see text]) the largest (respectively, the smallest) prime factor of the integer [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we prove a lower bound of almost-primes [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. As an application, we study two patterns on the largest prime factors of consecutive integers with one of which without small prime factor.
Accelerated procedure to solve kinetic equation for neutral atoms in a hot plasma
Authors: Tokar Mikhail Z.
Published: July 2018

By reaching the first wall of a fusion reactor, charged plasma particles, electrons and ions are recombined into neutral molecules and atoms of hydrogen isotopes. These species recycle back into the plasma volume and participate, in particular, in charge–exchange (cx) collisions with ions. As a result, hot atoms with chaotically directed velocities are generated and some of them hit the wall. Statistical Monte Carlo methods often used to model the behavior of cx atoms are too time-consuming for comprehensive parameter studies. Recently1 an alternative iteration approach to solve one-dimensional kinetic equation2 has been significantly accelerated, by a factor of 30–50, by applying a pass method to evaluate the arising integrals from functions, involving the ion velocity distribution. Here, this approach is used by solving a two-dimensional kinetic equation, describing the transport of cx atoms in the vicinity of an opening in the wall, e.g., the entrance of a duct guiding to a diagnostic installation. To assess the erosion rate and lifetime of the installation, one need to know the energy spectrum of hot cx atoms escaping from the plasma into the duct. Calculations are done for a first mirror of molybdenum under plasma conditions expected in a fusion reactor like DEMO.3,4 The results of kinetic modeling are compared with those found by using a diffusion approximation5 relevant for cx atoms if the time between cx collisions with ions is much smaller than the time till the ionization of atoms by electrons. The present more exact kinetic consideration predicts a mirror erosion rate by a factor of 2 larger than the approximate diffusion approach.
OPTIMAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY WITH DIVIDEND PAYING AND PROPORTIONAL TRANSACTION COSTS
Authors: NKEKI CHARLES. I.
Published: July 2018

A Markowitz’s mean-variance investment strategy is studied in a market with a stock, a bond, dividend payment and proportional transaction costs. Two control variables, portfolio strategy and dividend are considered in this paper. The control variables are inherent with a finite time horizon. This paper aims at minimizing the investment portfolio risk and maximizing the dividend process of the investment over time subject to portfolio allocation strategy, expected net wealth and investment costs over time. The method of Lagrangian multiplier was adopted. As a result, the optimal portfolio and optimal dividend payment are obtained. We found that the optimal portfolio process depends on the optimal dividend payment over time. Also, obtained in this paper, is the optimal portfolio with no dividend payment. We found that for the investment to achieve high target, more of the fund should be invested in stock and low dividend should be declared. The region of boundedness for stock purchase and stock sale are established. We found that for the investment to break-even, the quantum amount of stock sold must be greater than the quantum amount of stock purchase over time. The efficient frontier of the investment strategy was also obtained.
Multistation exercises: a combination of problem-based learning and team-based learning instructional design for large-enrollment classes
Authors: Singh Nikhilesh , Gupta Richa , Mahalakshmi V. N.
Published: July 2018

To introduce active learning session for a large group of 250 students, we combined the strengths of problem-based learning and team-based learning to promote a structured active learning strategy with less faculty involvement. For the implementation of this strategy, a case on anemia was selected based on the module already covered in classes. Structured exercises were preplanned on six different concepts that a student should possess for solving the problem. The large group of 250 students was divided into groups of 41 or 42 each. The groups were facilitated by one faculty member for one structured exercise. At the station, the group of 41 or 42 was further broken down into 6 smaller groups comprising 7 students each. After completion of the exercise, students cycled to the next exercise station facilitated by another faculty member. The case was solved in a plenary session. The effectiveness of the method was assessed by comparing the academic performance of the group with other similar groups from the previous year. The intervention group performed significantly better than the nonintervention group on the related item. Quartile subanalysis found that the effect was present in the performance of average and higher quartile groups, but not in the lower quartile group.
Peer instruction in a physiology laboratory course in China
Authors: Bian Hui , Bian Yan , Li Jiao , Li Yue , Ma Yanhua , Shao Xiaoxia , Xu Jiahao
Published: July 2018

Peer instruction has been used extensively in lecture courses; however, there is little evidence of its use in laboratory courses. The purpose of the present study was to describe the implementation of the peer instruction method in a physiology laboratory course in China. Second-year medical students attended a 6-wk physiology laboratory course in the fall semester of the 2016–2017 school year. In the six new physiology laboratory classes, peer instruction strategies were used to substitute for the traditional short, didactic lectures. The effects of peer instruction were measured by in-class quizzes and confidence levels. The students’ evaluations of peer instruction were measured by a Likert scale questionnaire. Peer instruction significantly improved the mean score on quizzes (0.53 ± 0.50 vs. 0.68 ± 0.47, P < 0.001) and confidence levels (2.36 ± 0.66 vs. 2.80 ± 0.45, P < 0.001). Furthermore, for individual incorrect answers, 39.07% changed to correct answers after peer instruction, whereas, for correct answers, 6.61% were changed to an incorrect response. Overall, significantly more students changed their answers from incorrect to correct than from correct to incorrect [χ2: 333.11; degrees of freedom (df): 1; P < 0.001]. Therefore, the positive effects of peer instruction were higher than the negative effects (χ2: 244.55; df: 1; P < 0.001). Moreover, student evaluations of peer instruction were highly positive. In conclusion, the implementation of peer instruction to the physiology laboratory course is an effective strategy to enhance students’ performance on in-class quizzes and confidence levels. In addition, the attitude of students toward peer instruction was favorable.
Peer teaching beyond the formal medical curriculum
Authors: Engels Daniel , Kraus Elisabeth , Obirei Barbara , Dethleffsen Kathrin
Published: July 2018

Peer-assisted learning (PAL) is nowadays commonly implemented in medical education. Mostly PAL is utilized to specifically support teaching within one subject or a specific curricular situation. Here, we present a large-scale peer teaching program that aims to address the individual student’s learning needs. In addition, it provides a platform for students to participate in academic teaching. A retrospective data analysis was performed to reveal the program’s development and acceptance. The program was implemented in 2008/09 with three tutorials conducted by 24 student tutors to support students preparing for reexaminations. Since then, the program has continuously grown. In 2015/16, 140 tutors conducted 52 tutorials, consisting of 2,750 lessons for 1,938 tutees. New tutorial categories were continuously introduced. In 2015/16, these encompassed tutorials that were held concomitantly to the formal curriculum, tutorials that exceeded the contents of the formal curriculum, tutorials for preparation for the state examination, and electives. Evaluations among the tutees revealed that 93.5% of the respondents rated the courses overall as “good” or “excellent” ( n = 13,489) in 2015/16. All elements of the peer teaching program are managed by one academic group. This encompasses the organization of tutorials, the quality management, and the qualification of tutors, including content-related supervision and didactic training. We conclude that the implementation of a large-scale peer teaching program can complement the formal curriculum. This might be beneficial for both tutors who can actively train their didactic and content-related competencies, and tutees who can autonomously consolidate and expand their knowledge.
Factors Affecting the Absorption of Subcutaneously Administered Insulin: Effect on Variability
Authors: Gradel A. K. J. , Porsgaard T. , Lykkesfeldt J. , Seested T. , Gram-Nielsen S. , Kristensen N. R. , Refsgaard H. H. F.
Published: July 2018

Variability in the effect of subcutaneously administered insulin represents a major challenge in insulin therapy where precise dosing is required in order to achieve targeted glucose levels. Since this variability is largely influenced by the absorption of insulin, a deeper understanding of the factors affecting the absorption of insulin from the subcutaneous tissue is necessary in order to improve glycaemic control and the long-term prognosis in people with diabetes. These factors can be related to either the insulin preparation, the injection site/patient, or the injection technique. This review highlights the factors affecting insulin absorption with special attention on the physiological factors at the injection site. In addition, it also provides a detailed description of the insulin absorption process and the various modifications to this process that have been utilized by the different insulin preparations available.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Active TB among Adult HIV Patients Receiving ART in Northwestern Tanzania: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Gunda Daniel W. , Maganga Simon C. , Nkandala Igembe , Kilonzo Semvua B. , Mpondo Bonaventura C. , Shao Elichilia R. , Kalluvya Samwel E.
Published: July 2018

Introduction. Although ART has improved the outcome of people living with HIV/AIDS, still some patients develop TB while receiving ART. The literature on the magnitude of this problem is still scarce in our setting especially northwestern Tanzania. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of active TB among HIV patients on ART and assess its potential risk factors.Methods. A retrospective cohort study was done among adult HIV-positive patients initiated on ART at Bugando Medical Centre. Patients who were TB positive before ART initiation were excluded. Data regarding demographic, clinical, and laboratory information, TB status on receipt of ART, and time on ART were collected and analyzed using STATA 11 to determine the prevalence of TB and its associated factors.Results. In total, 391 patients were enrolled in this study. The median age was 39 (32–46) years, and a total of 129 (32.99%) participants had CD4 counts <200 cells/µl and 179 (45.78%) had WHO stage 3 and 4 illnesses. A total of 43 (11.0%) participants developed TB while receiving ART which was independently associated with male gender (OR = 2.9;p=0.007), WHO clinical stage 3 and 4 (OR = 1.4;p=0.029), baseline CD4 count <200 cells/µl (OR = 9.1;p<0.001), and having not used IPT (OR = 3.1;p=0.05).Conclusions. Active TB is prevalent among HIV patients while receiving ART in northwestern Tanzania which is independently associated with male gender, advanced HIV disease, and nonuse of IPT. Universal HIV testing could reduce late HIV diagnosis and hence reduce the risk of developing TB while receiving ART in our setting. Also IPT should be widely used for those who are negative for TB on screening.
Probiotic Cell‐Free Supernatants Exhibited Anti‐Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity on Human Gut Epithelial Cells and Macrophages Stimulated with LPS
Authors: De Marco Stefania , Sichetti Marzia , Muradyan Diana , Piccioni Miranda , Traina Giovanna , Pagiotti Rita , Pietrella Donatella
Published: July 2018

The incidence of inflammatory bowel disease is increasing all over the world, especially in industrialized countries. The aim of the present work was to verify the anti‐inflammatory activity of metabolites. In particular, cell‐free supernatants of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactococcus lactis, Lactobacillus reuteri, and Saccharomyces boulardii have been investigated. Metabolites produced by these probiotics were able to downregulate the expression of PGE‐2 and IL‐8 in human colon epithelial HT‐29 cells. Moreover, probiotic supernatants can differently modulate IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α, and IL‐10 production by human macrophages, suggesting a peculiar anti‐inflammatory activity. Furthermore, supernatants showed a significant dose‐dependent radical scavenging activity. This study suggests one of the mechanisms by which probiotics exert their anti‐inflammatory activity affecting directly the intestinal epithelial cells and the underlying macrophages. This study provides a further evidence to support the possible use of probiotic metabolites in preventing and downregulating intestinal inflammation as adjuvant in anti‐inflammatory therapy.
Automatic Search Algorithms for Near-Field Ferromagnetic Targets Based on Magnetic Anomaly Detection
Authors: Zhang Mengying , Wang Hua , Ge Lin , Cheng Hao , Cheng Feng
Published: July 2018

For searching and detecting near-field unknown ferromagnetic targets, four automatic search algorithms are proposed based on magnetic anomaly information from any position on planes or in space. Firstly, gradient search algorithms and enhanced gradient search algorithms are deduced using magnetic modulus anomaly information and magnetic vector anomaly information. In each algorithm, there are plane search forms and space search forms considering different practical search situations. Then the magnetic anomaly space data of typical magnetic source of oblique magnetization are forwardly simulated by ANSYS MAXWELL software. The plane distributions of some variables are numerically computed and the search destinations of different algorithms are predicted. Four automatic search algorithms are applied to simulate search paths on three characteristic orthogonal planes and in whole solution space. The factor affecting the performance of algorithms is analyzed. Features of each algorithm in different conditions are analyzed and suitable applications are discussed and verified by the experiment. The results show that proposed search algorithms require few prior information and have real-time performance for searching and tracking magnetic anomaly target.
An Improved Fair Allocation Based on Contribution Rate and Its Application
Authors: Xiao Hai-jun , Mo Zhen-min , Cheng Jin-hua
Published: July 2018

Oil production task allocation (OPTA) is affected by various factors, and each one has a different impact on oil production. Therefore, the fair distribution of production task to each production branch is really a hard work for an oil company, so a fair allocation based on contribution rate (ABCR) has been proposed to solve this problem in this paper. The algorithm of ABCR, unlike other existing algorithms, takes into account the differences of members’ contribution (DMC), which can be expressed by member contribution rate (MCR) based on the certainty and uncertainty factors. Two steps are implemented to gain the differences of members’ contribution. First, we use Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to reduce factors for certain factor and construct a new factor with Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) for uncertain factor. Then, the MCR is evaluated by AHP. Based on member contribution rate, member goal, and alliance target, a fair allocation can be obtained by ABCR. Finally, we propose an evaluation criterion for allocation. Case study shows that the resource allocation results of ABCR not only are more reasonable than those of the other methods but also can prevent unfair allocation and enhance the production environment, thereby improving the enthusiasm for production.
Nivolumab-Induced Autoimmune Encephalitis in Two Patients with Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Shah Suma , Dunn-Pirio Anastasie , Luedke Matthew , Morgenlander Joel , Skeen Mark , Eckstein Christopher
Published: July 2018

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have improved patient survival outcomes in a variety of advanced malignancies. However, they can cause a number of immune-related adverse effects (irAEs) through lymphocyte dysregulation. Central nervous system (CNS) irAEs are rare, but as the number of indications for checkpoint inhibitors increases, there has been emergence of CNS immune-mediated disease among cancer patients. Given the relatively recent recognition of checkpoint inhibitor CNS irAEs, there is no standard treatment, and prognosis is variable. Therefore, there is a great need for further study of checkpoint inhibitor-induced CNS irAEs. Here, we present two unique cases of nivolumab-induced autoimmune encephalitis in patients with non-small cell lung cancer and review the available literature.
Phenolic Plant Extracts Induce Sirt1 Activity and Increase Antioxidant Levels in the Rabbit’s Heart and Liver
Authors: Corbi G. , Conti V. , Komici K. , Manzo V. , Filippelli A. , Palazzo M. , Vizzari F. , Davinelli S. , Di Costanzo A. , Scapagnini G. , Ferrara N. , Casamassima D.
Published: July 2018

Background. Several dietary phytochemicals potentially regulate the equilibrium between oxidant and antioxidant species. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Lippia citriodora, Raphanus sativus, and Solanum lycopersicum on blood parameters, oxidative/antioxidant status, and SIRT1 activity in the rabbit’s heart and liver. Methods. Twenty rabbits were divided into 4 groups of 5 animals each. The control group (CN) received a feed without any additives. One intervention group received a supplement containing verbascoside (VB), another Raphanus sativus extract (RAP), and lastly lycopene (LYC). Oxidant‐antioxidant parameters and SIRT1 activity were measured in plasma and in the heart and liver, respectively. Results. The treatment with VB, RAP, and LYC resulted in a marked improvement in the blood lipid and glycaemic profile in respect to CN. VB was the most effective, but all three plant extracts induced a significant reduction in oxidant parameters as well as an increase in antioxidant tissue activity and vitamin A and E levels. SIRT1 activity was significantly increased in both VB and LYC compared to CN, but the increased levels in the VB group were far the highest. The multivariate analysis suggests that the benefits of VB, particularly the antiglycaemic and antioxidant effects, might be mediated by increasing SIRT1 activity.
The Importance of the Double Product in the Six-Minute Walk Test to Predict Myocardial Function
Authors: Domka-Jopek Elżbieta , Jopek Andrzej , Bejer Agnieszka , Lenart-Domka Ewa , Walawski Grzegorz
Published: July 2018

Introduction. The Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) is a widely used test to measure the physical performance of patients to assess the effectiveness of treatment, to qualify for rehabilitation, and to evaluate its effects..Aim.This paper focuses on the assessment of the growth of a double product (DP) during the 6MWT and its diagnostic value in the assessment of patients with heart failure.Material and Methods. The paper has retrospective character. We analyzed medical records of 412 patients hospitalized for cardiac reasons, in whom a 6MWT was performed. The patients were divided into two groups: one with diagnosed heart failure and a control group.Results. The patients with diagnosed heart failure, compared to the control group, were characterized by a shorter walking distance and greater DP increase at equal walking intervals. After distinguishing the group with the preserved and decreased left ventricle ejection fraction, the value of the DP increase was still higher compared to the control group. The mean DP increase corresponding to one meter of walk was the only one that correlated negatively with the left ventricular ejection fraction.Conclusion.The assessment of the increase of the DP during the march test seems to be a better parameter reflecting the efficiency of the myocardium from the distance of the march.
Approximation of Fresnel Integrals with Applications to Diffraction Problems
Authors: Sandoval-Hernandez M. , Vazquez-Leal H. , Hernandez-Martinez L. , Filobello-Nino U. A. , Jimenez-Fernandez V. M. , Herrera-May A. L. , Castaneda-Sheissa R. , Ambrosio-Lazaro R. C. , Diaz-Arango G.
Published: July 2018

This article introduces two approximations that allow the evaluation of Fresnel integrals without the need for using numerical algorithms. These equations accomplish the characteristic of being continuous in the same interval as Fresnel. Both expressions have been determined applying the least squares method to suitable expressions. Accuracy of equations improves as x increases; as for small values of x, it is possible to achieve an absolute error less than 8×10-5. To probe the efficiency of the equations, two case studies are presented, both applied in the optics field. The first case is related to the semi-infinite opaque screen for Fresnel diffraction. In this case study Fresnel integrals are evaluated with the proposed equations to calculate the irradiance distribution and the Cornu spiral for diffraction computations of the Fresnel diffraction; obtained results show a good accuracy. The second case is related to the double aperture problem for Fresnel diffraction.
Propagation of Current Waves along Randomly Located Multiconductor Transmission Lines inside a Rectangular Resonator
Authors: Tkachenko Sergey V. , Nitsch Juergen B. , Raya Moustafa , Vick Ralf
Published: July 2018

Propagation of current waves along randomly located multiconductor transmission lines inside a rectangular resonator is investigated. Two different line configurations are considered: parallel wires and perpendicular lines. The analytical solutions for both types of lines are obtained, using the method of symmetrical lines inside the resonator. Computer realization of this method allows it to obtain a fast solution. Therefore, it becomes possible to investigate statistical properties of induced currents. It could be shown that the mutual coupling of the currents in the wires is strong when the frequency is near resonances in the system “cavity and wires” and relatively small far from these resonances. Stochastization leads to a broadening of the resonance curves.
Periodic Catatonia Marked by Hypercortisolemia and Exacerbated by the Menses: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zwiebel Samantha , Villasante-Tejanos Alejandro G. , de Leon Jose
Published: July 2018

Kahlbaum first described catatonia; later Kraepelin, Gjessing, and Leonhard each defined periodic catatonia differently. A 48-year-old female with catatonia, whose grandmother probably died from it, was prospectively followed for >4 years in a US psychiatric state hospital. Through 4 catatonic episodes (one lasting 17 months) there were menstrual exacerbations of catatonia and increases in 4 biological variables: (1) creatine kinase (CK) up to 4,920 U/L, (2) lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) up to 424 U/L, (3) late afternoon cortisol levels up to 28.0 mcg/dL, and (4) white blood cell (WBC) counts up to 24,200/mm3 with neutrophilia without infections. Records from 17 prior admissions documented elevations of WBC and LDH and included an abnormal dexamethasone suppression test (DST) which normalized with electroconvulsive therapy. Two later admissions showed CK and WBC elevations. We propose that these abnormalities reflect different aspects of catatonic biology: (1) the serum CK, the severity of muscle damage probably exacerbated by the menses; (2) the hypercortisolemia, the associated fear; (3) the leukocytosis with neutrophilia, the hypercortisolemia; and (4) the LDH elevations, which appear to be influenced by other biological abnormalities. Twentieth-century literature was reviewed for (1) menstrual exacerbations of catatonia, (2) biological abnormalities related to periodic catatonia, and (3) familial periodic catatonia.
Projecting the Burden of Chronic Kidney Disease in a Developed Country and Its Implications on Public Health
Authors: Wong L. Y. , Liew A. S. T. , Weng W. T. , Lim C. K. , Vathsala A. , Toh M. P. H. S.
Published: July 2018

Background. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a major public health problem worldwide. There is limited literature on a model to project the number of people with CKD. This study projects the number of residents with CKD in Singapore by 2035 using a Markov model.Methods. A Markov model with nine mutually exclusive health states was developed according to the clinical course of CKD, based on a discrete time interval of 1 year. The model simulated the transition of cohorts across different health states from 2007 to 2035 using prevalence, incidence, mortality, disease transition, and disease detection rates.Results. From 2007 to 2035, the number of residents with CKD is projected to increase from 316,521 to 887,870 and the prevalence from 12.2% to 24.3%. Patients with CKD stages 1-2 constituted the largest proportion. The proportion of undiagnosed cases will decline from 72.1% to 56.4%, resulting from faster progression to higher CKD stages and its eventual detection.Conclusion. By 2035, about one-quarter of the Singapore residents are expected to have CKD. National policies need to focus on primary disease prevention and early disease detection to avoid delayed treatment of CKD which eventually leads to end-stage renal disease.
Neurobiological Effects of Binge Drinking Help in Its Detection and Differential Diagnosis from Alcohol Dependence
Authors: Waszkiewicz Napoleon , Galińska-Skok Beata , Nestsiarovich Anastasiya , Kułak-Bejda Agnieszka , Wilczyńska Karolina , Simonienko Katarzyna , Kwiatkowski Mikołaj , Konarzewska Beata
Published: July 2018

The prevalence of binge drinking in the general population is 3-4 times higher than that of alcohol dependence. Neuroimaging studies show that binge drinking in adolescence impairs brain development and white matter integrity. Regions with reduced functional activity include the limbic system, ventral diencephalon, frontal lobe, and middle and inferior temporal lobes, whereas the right superior frontal and parietal lobes are typically hyperactivated. The observed activation of the frontoparietal areas might reflect the alternative memory system operating, whereas the reduced occipito-hippocampal response is associated with impaired visual and linguistic processing/learning. Some other findings from literature research include a decrease of N-acetylaspartate (NAA) in the frontal lobe and its increase in the parietal lobes, as well as the reduced components of event-related potentials, reflecting deficit in attention, working memory, inhibition, and executive functioning. Animal studies show that even a single day of binge drinking results in a neurodegeneration and reactive gliosis in the limbic cortex as well as in gene expression dysregulation and histone acetylation. Another biological evidence on binge drinking effect include inflammatory response, oxidative stress, formation of toxic ceramides, activation of caspase 3, and secretion of corticoliberin. Some of the binge drinking-induced cognitive abnormalities can be reversible after three weeks of abstinence. Although binge drinkers have a similar pattern of neuropsychological deficits with chronic alcohol consumers (mainly memory deficits), binge drinkers have prominent impairment of inhibitory control, which may be a marker of binge pattern of alcohol drinking. The optimal therapeutic strategies should target the inhibitory control processes to facilitate discontinuation of alcohol consumption and to block its possible progression to the alcohol dependence syndrome.
Correlation between miR-200 Family Overexpression and Cancer Prognosis
Authors: Liu Wen , Zhang Kaiping , Wei Pengfei , Hu Yue , Peng Yaqin , Fang Xiang , He Guoping , Wu Limin , Chao Min , Wang Jing
Published: July 2018

The correlation between miR-200 family overexpression and cancer prognosis remains controversial. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis by searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China Biology Medicine disc (CBM), and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) to identify eligible studies. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to evaluate the strength of the correlations. Additionally, different subgroup analyses and publication bias test were performed. Eventually, we analyzed 23 articles that included five tumor types and 3038 patients. Consequently, high expression of miR-200 family in various tumors was associated with unfavorable overall survival (OS) in both univariate (HR=1.32, 95% CI: 1.14–1.54, P<0.001) and multivariate (HR=1.32, 95% CI: 1.16–1.49, P<0.001) analyses. Likewise, a similar result was found in different subgroups of the patient source, cancer type, test method, sample source, miR-200 component, and sample size. However, no association of miR-200 family was detected with recurrence- or relapse-free survival (RFS) (univariate: HR=1.02, 95% CI: 0.96–1.09, P=0.47; multivariate: HR=1.07, 95% CI: 1.00–1.14, P=0.07), progression-free survival (PFS) (univariate: HR=0.96, 95% CI: 0.54–1.70, P=0.88; multivariate: HR=1.17, 95% CI: 0.86–1.61, P=0.32), and disease-free survival (DFS) (univariate: HR=0.90, 95% CI: 0.74–1.09, P=0.29; multivariate: HR=0.98, 95% CI: 0.68–1.41, P=0.90). Our findings have provided convincing evidence that miR-200 family overexpression suggested poor prognosis of various cancer types, which efforts may raise the potential use of miR-200 family for cancer prognosis in clinical practice.
Ovarian Torsion after Hysterectomy: Case Report and Concise Review of the Reported Cases
Authors: Larraín Demetrio , Casanova Andrés , Rojas Iván
Published: July 2018

Ovarian torsion after hysterectomy is a rare event. The diagnosis of ovarian torsion is challenging because symptoms are nonspecific. We present a case of ovarian torsion 2 years after laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH). Furthermore, we performed a literature review about ovarian torsion after hysterectomy. This case shows that, in cases of acute onset pelvic pain in patients with history of hysterectomy, the adnexal torsion must be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis, especially in those women who had undergone LH.
Clinical Significance of the Decreased Expression of hsa_circ_001242 in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Sun Shuai , Li Bowen , Wang Yufan , Li Xiang , Wang Panpan , Wang Feng , Zhang Wei , Yang Hongyu
Published: July 2018

Background. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a type of covalently closed loop structure of endogenous RNAs. Recent studies have shown that circular RNAs may play an important role in human cancer. However, there is limited information on the function of circRNA in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Methods. Hsa_circ_001242 expression levels in 40 paired OSCC tissues and four OSCC cell lines were selected using real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic value of hsa_circ_001242 in OSCC. Results. Hsa_circ_001242 was significantly downregulated in OSCC tissues compared to paired adjacent normal tissues (P<0.001). Hsa_circ_001242 expression levels were significantly downregulated in four OSCC cell lines (SCC-9, SCC-15, SCC25, and CAL-27) than in human normal oral keratinocyte (HOK) cell lines. Moreover, the expression level of hsa_circ_001242 was negatively correlated with tumor size and T stage (P<0.05). The area under the ROC curve was 0.784. Conclusion. This study showed that hsa_circ_001242 was significantly downregulated in OSCC and may act as a potential novel biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of OSCC.
Electroacupuncture at Hua Tuo Jia Ji Acupoints Reduced Neuropathic Pain and Increased GABAA Receptors in Rat Spinal Cord
Authors: Jiang Siao-Wei , Lin Yi-Wen , Hsieh Ching-Liang
Published: July 2018

Chronic constriction injury‐ (CCI‐) induced neuropathic pain is the most similar model to hyperalgesia in clinical observation. Neuropathic pain is a neuronal dysfunction in the somatosensory system that may lead to spontaneous pain. In this study, electroacupuncture (EA) was applied at bilateral L4 and L6 of Hua Tuo Jia Ji points (EX‐B2) for relieving neuropathic pain in rats. Eighteen Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly assigned to three groups: sham, 2‐Hz EA, and 15‐Hz EA groups. Following von Frey and cold plate tests, both the 2‐ and the 15‐Hz EA groups had significantly lower mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia than the sham group. Western blot analysis results showed that γ‐aminobutyric acid A (GABAA), adenosine A1 receptor (A1R), transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1), TRPV4, and metabotropic glutamate receptor 3 (mGluR3) were similar in the dorsal root ganglion of all three groups. Furthermore, levels of GABAA receptors were higher in the spinal cord of rats in the 2‐ and 15‐Hz EA groups compared with the sham control group. This was not observed for A1R, TRPV1, TRPV4, or mGluR3 receptors. In addition, all the aforementioned receptors were unchanged in the somatosensory cortex of the study rats, suggesting a central spinal effect. The study results provide evidence to support the clinical use of EA for specifically alleviating neuropathic pain.
Composition Operators Mapping Logarithmic Bloch Functions into Hardy Space
Authors: Kwon E. G.
Published: July 2018

Characterizing the hyperbolic Hardy classes, several g-functions of hyperbolic type are introduced. Using this, necessary and sufficient conditions on the inducing self-maps are established for the boundedness of the composition operators from logarithmic Bloch spaces into Hardy spaces.
Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes or Hydrogen Peroxide Enhance Biofilm Development of MucoidPseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Tan Qi , Ai Qing , Xu Qi , Li Fang , Yu Jialin
Published: July 2018

Pseudomonas aeruginosais an opportunistic pathogenic bacterium involved in many human infections, including pneumonia, diabetic foot ulcers, and ventilator-associated pneumonia.P. aeruginosacells usually undergo mucoid conversion during chronic lung infection in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and resist destruction by polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs), which release free oxygen radicals (ROS), such as H2O2. PMNs are the main leucocytes in the CF sputum of patients who are infected withP. aeruginosa, which usually forms biofilms. Here, we report that PMNs or H2O2can promote biofilm formation by mucoidP. aeruginosaFRD1 with the use of the hanging-peg method. The mucoid strain infecting CF patients overproduces alginate. In this study, PMNs and H2O2promoted alginate production, and biofilms treated with PMNs or H2O2exhibited higher expression of alginate genes. Additionally, PMNs increased the activity of GDP-mannose dehydrogenase, which is the key enzyme in alginate biosynthesis. Our results demonstrate that PMNs or H2O2can enhance mucoidP. aeruginosabiofilms.
Novel Two-Stage Method for Low-Order Polynomial Model
Authors: Yan Cheng , Shen Xiuli , Guo Fushui
Published: July 2018

One of the most popular statistical models is a low-order polynomial response surface model, i.e., a polynomial of first order or second order. These polynomials can be used for global metamodels in weakly nonlinear simulation to approximate their global tendency and local metamodels in response surface methodology (RSM), which has been studied in various applications in engineering design and analysis. The order of the selected polynomial determines the number of sampling points (input combinations) and the resulting accuracy (validity, adequacy). This paper derives a novel method to obtain an accurate high-order polynomial while requiring fewer sampling points. This method uses a two-stage procedure such that the second stage modifies the low-order polynomial estimated in the first stage; this second stage does not require new points. This paper evaluates the performance of the method numerically by using several test functions. These numerical results show that the proposed method can provide more accurate predictions than the traditional method.
An Improved Image Denoising Model Based on Nonlocal Means Filter
Authors: Jin Yan , Jiang Wenyu , Shao Jianlong , Lu Jin
Published: July 2018

The nonlocal means filter plays an important role in image denoising. We propose in this paper an image denoising model which is a suitable improvement of the nonlocal means filter. We compare this model with the nonlocal means filter, both theoretically and experimentally. Experiment results show that this new model provides good results for image denoising. Particularly, it is better than the nonlocal means filter when we consider the denoising for natural images with high textures.
Wideband Sparse Signal Acquisition Based on Serial Multi-Coset Sampling
Authors: Liu Changjian , Wang Houjun
Published: July 2018

Traditional parallel multi-coset sampling (MCS), which has several sub-Analog-to-Digital-Converters (sub-ADCs) working parallelly, is an attractive sub-Nyquist sampling technique for wideband sparse signals. However, the mismatch among sub-ADCs in traditional parallel MCS, such as bias, gain, and timing skew mismatch, degrades the signal acquisition performance greatly. In this paper, a serial MCS scheme based on clocking single ADC with nonuniform clock is proposed. The nonuniform sampling clock is generated by a pseudo-random binary sequence generator. An additional Sample/Hold (S/H) is used to improve the analog bandwidth of the serial MCS. Moreover, universal sampling pattern is designed for the proposed serial MCS. The sampling pattern design should not only maximize the Kruskal rank of compressed sensing matrix but also take the ADC’s sub-Nyquist sampling rate into consideration. Numeral experiments are presented demonstrating that the mismatch among sub-ADCs in traditional parallel MCS degrades the reconstruction performance greatly, and the proposed serial MCS can avoid the mismatch tactfully.
Similarities in the Computed Tomography Appearance in α1-Antitrypsin Deficiency and Smoking-Related Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in a Smoking Collective
Authors: Konietzke Philip , Jobst Bertram , Wagner Willi L. , Jarosch Inga , Graber Ralph , Kenn Klaus , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Wielpütz Mark O.
Published: July 2018

Background: Emphysematous destruction of lung parenchyma visible in computed tomography (CT) can be attributed to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or to α1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD). Objectives: We evaluated if visual semiquantitative phenotyping of CT data helps identifying individuals with AATD in a group of smokers with severe emphysema and airflow limitation. Method: n = 14 patients with AATD and n = 15 with COPD and a minimum of 10 pack years underwent CT, clinical assessment, and full-body plethysmography. The extent and type of emphysema as well as large and small airway changes were rated semiquantitatively for each lobe using a standardized previously published scoring system. Lastly, a final diagnosis for each patient was proposed. Results: AATD had a significantly lower mean emphysema score than COPD, with 8.9 ± 3.4 versus 11.9 ± 3.2 (p < 0.001), respectively. Within both groups, there was significantly more emphysema in the lower lobes (p < 0.05–0.001). The COPD group showed an upper- and middle-lobe predominance of emphysema distribution when compared to the AATD group (p < 0.001). Centrilobular (CLE) and panlobular (PLE) emphysema patterns showed a uniform distribution within both groups, with a CLE predominance in the upper lung and a PLE predominance in the lower lung regions. AATD and COPD both showed significantly more airway changes in lower lobes compared to upper lobes (p = 0.05–0.001), without significant differences between both groups. Conclusion: The typical emphysema distribution patterns seen on CT traditionally assigned to AATD and COPD were of little use in discriminating both entities. Also, airway changes could not contribute to a more precise differentiation. We conclude that a concise standardized phenotyping-driven approach to chest CT in emphysema is not sufficient to identify patients with AATD in a cohort of smokers with advanced emphysema.
Direct Thrombectomy versus Bridging for Patients with Emergent Large-Vessel Occlusions
Authors: Leker Ronen R. , Cohen Jose E. , Tanne David , Orion David , Telman Gregory , Raphaeli Guy , Amsalem Jacob , Streifler Jonathan Y. , Hallevi Hen , Gavriliuc Pavel , Bornstein Natan M. , Horev Anat , Yaghmour Nour Eddine ,   NASIS-REVASC Study Group
Published: July 2018

Background and Aims: Patients with emergent large-vessel occlusion (ELVO) that present earlier than 4 h from onset are usually treated with bridging systemic thrombolysis followed by endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). Whether direct EVT (dEVT) could improve the chances of favorable outcome remains unknown. Methods: Consecutively, prospectively enrolled patients with ELVO presenting within 4 h of onset were entered into a National Acute Stroke Registry of patients undergoing revascularization. Patients treated with bridging were compared to those treated with dEVT. Excellent outcome was defined as having a modified Rankin Scale score ≤1 at 90 days following stroke. Results: Out of 392 patients that underwent thrombectomy, 270 (68%) presented within 4 h and were included. Of those, 159 (59%) underwent bridging and 111 (41%) underwent dEVT. Atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure were more common in the dEVT group (43 vs. 30%, p = 0.04 and 20 vs. 8%, p = 0.009, respectively), but other risk factors, demographics, stroke severity and subtypes as well as baseline vessel patency state and time metrics did not differ. Excellent target vessel recanalization defined as TICI 3 (thrombolysis in cerebral infarction score) was more common in the dEVT group (75 vs. 61%, p = 0.03), but in-hospital mortality, discharge destinations, short- and long-term excellent outcome rates did not differ. On multivariate regression analysis, treatment modality did not significantly modify the chances of excellent outcome at discharge (OR 0.7; 95% CI 0.3–1.5) or at 3 months (OR 0.78 95% CI 0.4–1.4). Conclusions: The chances of attaining excellent functional outcomes are similar in ELVO patients undergoing dEVT or bridging.
Cyanidin Protects SH-SY5Y Human Neuroblastoma Cells from 1-Methyl-4-Phenylpyridinium-Induced Neurotoxicity
Authors: Chen Jian , Sun Jian , Jiang Julian , Zhou Jie
Published: July 2018

Cyanidin is an anthocyanidin extracted from a variety of fruits and vegetables. Cyanidin showed benefits against diabetes, cancer, and atherosclerosis. However, the potential neuroprotective effects of cyanidin against Parkinson’s disease (PD) have not been examined. Indicated concentrations of cyanidin (1, 3, 10, and 30 μmol/L) were incubated together with 0.5 mmol/L 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+) to human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. We found cyanidin prevented MPP+-induced cell demise in a concentration-dependent manner. Cyanidin significantly reduced MPP+-induced apoptosis, this is reflected by decreased TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling staining and caspase-3 expressions. Further, MPP+ increased the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, which was partly reversed by cyanidin. We also found cyanidin attenuated the MPP+-induced mitochondrial oxidative stress as revealed by decreased MitoSOX staining. Taken together, these data for the first time indicated the ­neuroprotective effects of cyanidin against MPP+-induced ­SH-SY5Y cell death. These findings shed light on the potential implications of cyanidin for PD treatment.
Unilateral Left Deep Brain Stimulation of the Caudal Zona Incerta Is Equally Effective on Voice Tremor as Bilateral Stimulation: Evidence from 7 Patients with Essential Tremor
Authors: Sandström Linda , Karlsson Fredrik , Blomstedt Patric
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is less effective on voice tremor than arm tremor, and it is generally assumed that successful voice tremor treatment requires bilateral DBS and possibly more precise thalamic stimulation. However, recent findings suggest that these assumptions should be reconsidered. Objectives: To evaluate whether unilateral DBS targeting the caudal zona incerta (cZi) may be sufficient to alleviate voice tremor in patients with essential tremor, or whether bilateral stimulation is needed. Methods: Seven patients with voice tremor off stimulation were evaluated during bilateral stimulation using their clinical settings, and during unilateral left stimulation in iterations with increasing stimulation amplitude. Two expert listeners assessed voice tremor severity in all samples in a blinded procedure. Results: Six patients had comparable or better effects with unilateral left stimulation compared to bilateral stimulation. For the seventh patient, unilateral DBS at a slightly higher amplitude achieved similar results as bilateral DBS. Overall, high-amplitude stimulation did not appear to be beneficial on voice tremor. Conclusions: Unilateral left and bilateral cZi-DBS had comparable effects on voice tremor in the investigated group of 7 patients. This finding suggests that the assumption that bilateral DBS is required to treat voice tremor may need to be reconsidered.