bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical investigation of earth pressure coefficient along central line of backfilled stopes
Authors: Sobhi Mohamed Amine , Li Li , Aubertin Michel
Published: September 2016

The earth pressure coefficient K, defined as the horizontal to vertical normal (effective) stresses ratio (σh/σv), is a key parameter in analytical solutions for estimating the stresses in backfilled stopes. In the case of vertical stopes, the value of K has sometimes been defined using the at-rest earth pressure coefficient K0, while others have applied Rankine’s active earth pressure coefficient Ka. To help clarify this confusing situation, which can lead to significantly different results, the origin and nature of the at-rest and Rankine’s active coefficients are first briefly recalled. The stress state in backfilled stopes is then investigated using numerical simulations. The results indicate that the value of K can be close to Ka for cohesionless backfills along the vertical central line (CL) of vertical stopes, due to sequential placement and partial yielding of the backfill. For inclined stopes, simulations show that the ratio between the minor and major principal stresses (σ3/σ1) along the CL in the backfill, which differs from σh/σv, can also be close to Ka. A simple expression is shown to represent the horizontal to vertical stresses ratio σh/σv (= K) along the CL of such inclined stopes well. A discussion follows on the effects of backfill properties and simulation approach.
Translations in quantum mechanics revisited. The point spectrum case
Authors: Martínez-Pérez Armando , Torres-Vega Gabino
Published: September 2016

We study translations in quantum mechanics for the case of a point spectrum, including translations by non-allowed amounts. We find that we obtain a copy of the original interval if we want to move to the outside of it, or to a mixture of states when moving to non-spectrum values (i.e., an interpolation eigenfunction). These results will clarify the meaning of the Pauli statement about the existence of a time operator in quantum mechanics.
Lump solutions to the BKP equation by symbolic computation
Authors: Yang Jing-Yun , Ma Wen-Xiu
Published: September 2016

Lump solutions are rationally localized in all directions in the space. A general class of lump solutions to the (2+1)-dimensional B-Kadomtsev–Petviashvili (BKP) equation is presented through symbolic computation with Maple. The Hirota bilinear form of the equation is the starting point in the computation process. Like the KP equation, the resulting lump solutions contain six arbitrary parameters. Two of the parameters are due to the translation invariances of the BKP equation with the independent variables, and the other four need to satisfy a nonzero determinant condition and the positivity condition, which guarantee analyticity and rational localization of the solutions.
The structural, elastic, electronic and optical properties of MgCu under pressure: A first-principles study
Authors: Rahman Md. Afjalur , Rahaman Md. Zahidur , Rahman Md. Atikur
Published: September 2016

The effect of pressure on the structural, elastic and electronic properties of the intermetallic compound MgCu with a CsCl-type structure have been investigated using ab initio technique. The optical properties have been studied under normal pressure. We have carried out the plane-wave pseudopotential approach within the framework of the first-principles density functional theory (DFT) implemented within the CASTEP code. The calculated structural parameters show a good agreement with the experimental and other theoretical results. The most important elastic properties including the bulk modulus [Formula: see text], shear modulus [Formula: see text], Young’s modulus [Formula: see text] and Poisson’s ratio [Formula: see text] of the cubic-type structure MgCu are determined under pressure by using the Voigt–Reuss–Hill (VRH) averaging scheme. The results show that the MgCu intermetallic becomes unstable under pressure more than 15 GPa. The study of Cauchy pressure and Pugh’s ratio exhibit brittle nature of MgCu at ambient condition and the compound is transformed into ductile nature with the increase of pressure. For the first time we have investigated the electronic and optical properties of MgCu. The electronic band structure reveals metallic conductivity and the major contribution comes from Cu-[Formula: see text] states. Reflectivity spectrum shows that the reflectivity is high in the ultraviolet region up to 72 eV.
Where First-Order and Monadic Second-Order Logic Coincide
Authors: Elberfeld Michael , Grohe Martin , Tantau Till
Published: September 2016

We study on which classes of graphs first-order logic (
fo
) and monadic second-order logic (
mso
) have the same expressive power. We show that for all classes C of graphs that are closed under taking subgraphs,
fo
and
mso
have the same expressive power on C if and only if, C has bounded tree depth. Tree depth is a graph invariant that measures the similarity of a graph to a star in a similar way that tree width measures the similarity of a graph to a tree. For classes just closed under taking
induced
subgraphs, we show an analogous result for guarded second-order logic (
gso
), the variant of
mso
that not only allows quantification over vertex sets but also over edge sets. A key tool in our proof is a Feferman--Vaught-type theorem that works for infinite collections of structures despite being constructive.
CATS
Authors: Zhao Yawei , Guo Deke , Xu Jia , Lv Pin , Chen Tao , Yin Jianping
Published: September 2016

Data sharing among multiple sampling tasks significantly reduces energy consumption and communication cost in low-power wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Conventional proposals have already scheduled the discrete point sampling tasks to decrease the amount of sampled data. However, less effort has been expended for applications that generate continuous interval sampling tasks. Moreover, most pioneering work limits its view to schedule sampling intervals of tasks on a single sensor node and neglects the process of task allocation in WSNs. Therefore, the gained efforts in prior work cannot benefit a large-scale WSN because the performance of a scheduling method is sensitive to the strategy of task allocation. Broadening the scope to an entire network, this article is the first work to maximize data sharing among continuous interval sampling tasks by jointly optimizing task allocation and scheduling of sampling intervals in WSNs. First, we formalize the joint optimization problem and prove it NP-hard. Second, we present the
COMBINE
operation, which is the crucial ingredient of our solution.
COMBINE
is a 2-factor approximate algorithm for maximizing data sharing among overlapping tasks. Furthermore, our heuristic named
CATS
is proposed.
CATS
is 2-factor approximate algorithm for jointly allocating tasks and scheduling sampling intervals so as to maximize data sharing in the entire network. Extensive empirical study is conducted on a testbed of 50 sensor nodes to evaluate the effectiveness of our methods. In addition, the scalability of our methods is verified by utilizing TOSSIM, a widely used simulation tool. The experimental results indicate that our methods successfully reduce the volume of sampled data and decrease energy consumption significantly.
Beyond Technology: Demand-Side Solutions for Climate Change Mitigation
Authors: Creutzig Felix , Fernandez Blanca , Haberl Helmut , Khosla Radhika , Mulugetta Yacob , Seto Karen C.
Published: September 2016

The assessment literature on climate change solutions to date has emphasized technologies and options based on cost-effectiveness analysis. However, many solutions to climate change mitigation misalign with such analytical frameworks. Here, we examine demand-side solutions, a crucial class of mitigation options that go beyond technological specification and cost-benefit analysis. To do so, we synthesize demand-side mitigation options in the urban, building, transport, and agricultural sectors. We also highlight the specific nature of demand-side solutions in the context of development. We then discuss key analytical considerations to integrate demand-side options into overarching assessments on mitigation. Such a framework would include infrastructure solutions that interact with endogenous preference formation. Both hard infrastructures, such as the built environment, and soft infrastructures, such as habits and norms, shape behavior and as a consequence offer significant potential for reducing overall energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions. We conclude that systemic infrastructural and behavioral change will likely be a necessary component of a transition to a low-carbon society.
Risk Analysis and Bioeconomics of Invasive Species to Inform Policy and Management
Authors: Lodge David M. , Simonin Paul W. , Burgiel Stanley W. , Keller Reuben P. , Bossenbroek Jonathan M. , Jerde Christopher L. , Kramer Andrew M. , Rutherford Edward S. , Barnes Matthew A. , Wittmann Marion E. , Chadderton W. Lindsay , Apriesnig Jenny L. , Beletsky Dmitry , Cooke Roger M. , Drake John M. , Egan Scott P. , Finnoff David C. , Gantz Crysta A. , Grey Erin K. , Hoff Michael H. , Howeth Jennifer G. , Jensen Richard A. , Larson Eric R. , Mandrak Nicholas E. , Mason Doran M. , Martinez Felix A. , Newcomb Tammy J. , Rothlisberger John D. , Tucker Andrew J. , Warziniack Travis W. , Zhang Hongyan
Published: September 2016

Risk analysis of species invasions links biology and economics, is increasingly mandated by international and national policies, and enables improved management of invasive species. Biological invasions proceed through a series of transition probabilities (i.e., introduction, establishment, spread, and impact), and each of these presents opportunities for management. Recent research advances have improved estimates of probability and associated uncertainty. Improvements have come from species-specific trait-based risk assessments (of estimates of introduction, establishment, spread, and impact probabilities, especially from pathways of commerce in living organisms), spatially explicit dispersal models (introduction and spread, especially from transportation pathways), and species distribution models (establishment, spread, and impact). Results of these forecasting models combined with improved and cheaper surveillance technologies and practices [e.g., environmental DNA (eDNA), drones, citizen science] enable more efficient management by focusing surveillance, prevention, eradication, and control efforts on the highest-risk species and locations. Bioeconomic models account for the interacting dynamics within and between ecological and economic systems, and allow decision makers to better understand the financial consequences of alternative management strategies. In general, recent research advances demonstrate that prevention is the policy with the greatest long-term net benefit.
Evolution in the Cycles of Life
Authors: Bowman John L. , Sakakibara Keiko , Furumizu Chihiro , Dierschke Tom
Published: September 2016

The life cycles of eukaryotes alternate between haploid and diploid phases, which are initiated by meiosis and gamete fusion, respectively. In both ascomycete and basidiomycete fungi and chlorophyte algae, the haploid-to-diploid transition is regulated by a pair of paralogous homeodomain protein encoding genes. That a common genetic program controls the haploid-to-diploid transition in phylogenetically disparate eukaryotic lineages suggests this may be the ancestral function for homeodomain proteins. Multicellularity has evolved independently in many eukaryotic lineages in either one or both phases of the life cycle. Organisms, such as land plants, exhibiting a life cycle whereby multicellular bodies develop in both the haploid and diploid phases are often referred to as possessing an alternation of generations. We review recent progress on understanding the genetic basis for the land plant alternation of generations and highlight the roles that homeodomain-encoding genes may have played in the evolution of complex multicellularity in this lineage.
Robust Yet Fragile: Expression Noise, Protein Misfolding, and Gene Dosage in the Evolution of Genomes
Authors: Pires J. Chris , Conant Gavin C.
Published: September 2016

The complex manner in which organisms respond to changes in their gene dosage has long fascinated geneticists. Oddly, although the existence of dominance implies that dosage reductions often have mild phenotypes, extra copies of whole chromosomes (aneuploidy) are generally strongly deleterious. Even more paradoxically, an extra copy of the genome is better tolerated than is aneuploidy. We review the resolution of this paradox, highlighting the roles of biochemistry, protein aggregation, and disruption of cellular microstructure in that explanation. Returning to life's curious combination of robustness and sensitivity to dosage changes, we argue that understanding how biological robustness evolved makes these observations less inexplicable. We propose that noise in gene expression and evolutionary strategies for its suppression play a role in generating dosage phenotypes. Finally, we outline an unappreciated mechanism for the preservation of duplicate genes, namely preservation to limit expression noise, arguing that it is particularly relevant in polyploid organisms.
Healthy glucocorticoid receptor N363S carriers dysregulate gene expression associated with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Jewell Christine M. , Katen Kevin S. , Barber Lisa M. , Cannon Crystal , Garantziotis Stavros , Cidlowski John A.
Published: September 2016

The glucocorticoid receptor single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) N363S has been reported to be associated with metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Our aim was to determine how the N363S SNP modifies glucocorticoid receptor signaling in a healthy population of individuals prior to the onset of disease. We examined the function of the N363S SNP in a cohort of subjects from the general population of North Carolina. Eighteen N363S heterozygous carriers and 36 noncarrier, control subjects were examined for clinical and biochemical parameters followed by a low-dose dexamethasone suppression test to evaluate glucocorticoid responsiveness. Serum insulin measurements revealed that N363S carriers have higher levels of insulin, although not statistically significant, compared with controls. Glucocorticoid receptor protein levels evaluated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from each clinical subject showed no difference between N363S and control. However, investigation of gene expression profiles in macrophages isolated from controls and N363S carriers using microarray, quantitative RT-PCR, and NanoString analyses revealed that the N363S SNP had an altered profile compared with control. These changes in gene expression occurred in both the absence and the presence of glucocorticoids. Thus, our observed difference in gene regulation between normal N363S SNP carriers and noncarrier controls may underlie the emergence of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease associated with the N363S polymorphism.
Leucine-rich repeat kinase-1 regulates osteoclast function by modulating RAC1/Cdc42 Small GTPase phosphorylation and activation
Authors: Zeng Canjun , Goodluck Helen , Qin Xuezhong , Liu Bo , Mohan Subburaman , Xing Weirong
Published: September 2016

Leucine-rich repeat kinase-1 (Lrrk1) consists of ankyrin repeats (ANK), leucine-rich repeats (LRR), a GTPase-like domain of Roc (ROC), a COR domain, a serine/threonine kinase domain (KD), and WD40 repeats (WD40). Previous studies have revealed that knockout (KO) of Lrrk1 in mice causes severe osteopetrosis, and a human mutation of Lrrk1 leads to osteosclerotic metaphysial dysplasia. The molecular mechanism by which Lrrk1 regulates osteoclast function is unknown. In this study, we generated a series of Lrrk1 mutants and evaluated their ability to rescue defective bone resorption in Lrrk1-deficient osteoclasts by use of pit formation assays. Overexpression of Lrrk1 or LRR-truncated Lrrk1, but not ANK-truncated Lrrk1, WD40-truncated Lrrk1, Lrrk1-KD, or K651A mutant Lrrk1, rescued bone resorption function of Lrrk1 KO osteoclasts. We next examined whether RAC1/Cdc42 small GTPases are direct substrates of Lrrk1 in osteoclasts. Western blot and pull-down assays revealed that Lrrk1 deficiency in osteoclasts resulted in reduced phosphorylation and activation of RAC1/Cdc42. In vitro kinase assays confirmed that recombinant Lrrk1 phosphorylated RAC1-GST protein, and immunoprecipitation showed that the interaction of Lrrk1 with RAC1 occurred within 10 min after RANKL treatment. Overexpression of constitutively active Q61L RAC1 partially rescued the resorptive function of Lrrk1-deficient osteoclasts. Furthermore, lack of Lrrk1 in osteoclasts led to reduced autophosphorylation of p21 protein-activated kinase-1 at Ser144, catalyzed by RAC1/Cdc42 binding and activation. Our data indicate that Lrrk1 regulates osteoclast function by directly modulating phosphorylation and activation of small GTPase RAC1/Cdc42 and that its function depends on ANK, ROC, WD40, and kinase domains.
Molecular patterns of diffuse and nodular parathyroid hyperplasia in long-term hemodialysis
Authors: Týcová Irena , Sulková Sylvie Dusilová , Štěpánková Jitka , Krejčík Zdeněk , Merkerová Michaela Dostálová , Stránecký Viktor , Hrubá Petra , Girmanová Eva , Černoch Marek , Lipár Květoslav , Marada Tomáš , Povýšil Ctibor , Viklický Ondřej
Published: September 2016

Secondary hyperparathyroidism is a well-known complication of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Both nodular and diffuse parathyroid hyperplasia occur in ESRD patients. However, their distinct molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Parathyroid tissue obtained from ESRD patients who had undergone parathyroidectomy was used for Illumina transcriptome screening and subsequently for discriminatory gene analysis, pathway mapping, and gene annotation enrichment analysis. Results were further validated using quantitative RT-PCR on the independent larger cohort. Microarray screening proved homogeneity of gene transcripts in hemodialysis patients compared with the transplant cohort and primary hyperparathyroidism; therefore, further experiments were performed in hemodialysis patients only. Enrichment analysis conducted on 485 differentially expressed genes between nodular and diffuse parathyroid hyperplasia revealed highly significant differences in Gene Ontology terms and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes database in ribosome structure ( P = 3.70 × 10−18). Next, quantitative RT-PCR validation of the top differently expressed genes from microarray analysis proved higher expression of RAN guanine nucleotide release factor (RANGRF; P < 0.001), calcyclin-binding protein ( CACYBP; P < 0.05), and exocyst complex component 8 ( EXOC8; P < 0.05) and lower expression of peptidylprolyl cis/ trans-isomerase and NIMA-interacting 1 (PIN1; P < 0.01) mRNA in nodular hyperplasia. Multivariate analysis revealed higher RANGRF and lower PIN1 expression along with parathyroid weight to be associated with nodular hyperplasia. In conclusion, our study suggests the RANGRF transcript, which controls RNA metabolism, to be likely involved in pathways associated with the switch to nodular parathyroid growth. This transcript, along with PIN1 transcript, which influences parathyroid hormone secretion, may represent new therapeutical targets to cure secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Dynamic balance of excitation and inhibition rapidly modulates spike probability and precision in feed-forward hippocampal circuits
Authors: Wahlstrom-Helgren Sarah , Klyachko Vitaly A.
Published: September 2016

Feed-forward inhibitory (FFI) circuits are important for many information-processing functions. FFI circuit operations critically depend on the balance and timing between the excitatory and inhibitory components, which undergo rapid dynamic changes during neural activity due to short-term plasticity (STP) of both components. How dynamic changes in excitation/inhibition (E/I) balance during spike trains influence FFI circuit operations remains poorly understood. In the current study we examined the role of STP in the FFI circuit functions in the mouse hippocampus. Using a coincidence detection paradigm with simultaneous activation of two Schaffer collateral inputs, we found that the spiking probability in the target CA1 neuron was increased while spike precision concomitantly decreased during high-frequency bursts compared with a single spike. Blocking inhibitory synaptic transmission revealed that dynamics of inhibition predominately modulates the spike precision but not the changes in spiking probability, whereas the latter is modulated by the dynamics of excitation. Further analyses combining whole cell recordings and simulations of the FFI circuit suggested that dynamics of the inhibitory circuit component may influence spiking behavior during bursts by broadening the width of excitatory postsynaptic responses and that the strength of this modulation depends on the basal E/I ratio. We verified these predictions using a mouse model of fragile X syndrome, which has an elevated E/I ratio, and found a strongly reduced modulation of postsynaptic response width during bursts. Our results suggest that changes in the dynamics of excitatory and inhibitory circuit components due to STP play important yet distinct roles in modulating the properties of FFI circuits.
Entanglement between thermoregulation and nociception in the rat: the case of morphine
Authors: El Bitar Nabil , Pollin Bernard , Karroum Elias , Pincedé Ivanne , Le Bars Daniel
Published: September 2016

In thermoneutral conditions, rats display cyclic variations of the vasomotion of the tail and paws, the most widely used target organs in current acute or chronic animal models of pain. Systemic morphine elicits their vasoconstriction followed by hyperthermia in a naloxone-reversible and dose-dependent fashion. The dose-response curves were steep with ED50 in the 0.5–1 mg/kg range. Given the pivotal functional role of the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) in nociception and the rostral medullary raphe (rMR) in thermoregulation, two largely overlapping brain regions, the RVM/rMR was blocked by muscimol: it suppressed the effects of morphine. “On-” and “off-” neurons recorded in the RVM/rMR are activated and inhibited by thermal nociceptive stimuli, respectively. They are also implicated in regulating the cyclic variations of the vasomotion of the tail and paws seen in thermoneutral conditions. Morphine elicited abrupt inhibition and activation of the firing of on- and off-cells recorded in the RVM/rMR. By using a model that takes into account the power of the radiant heat source, initial skin temperature, core body temperature, and peripheral nerve conduction distance, one can argue that the morphine-induced increase of reaction time is mainly related to the morphine-induced vasoconstriction. This statement was confirmed by analyzing in psychophysical terms the tail-flick response to random variations of noxious radiant heat. Although the increase of a reaction time to radiant heat is generally interpreted in terms of analgesia, the present data question the validity of using such an approach to build a pain index.
Mechanisms and Clinical Application of Tetramethylpyrazine (an Interesting Natural Compound Isolated from Ligusticum Wallichii): Current Status and Perspective
Authors: Zhao Yingke , Liu Yue , Chen Keji
Published: September 2016

Tetramethylpyrazine, a natural compound from Ligusticum wallichii (Chuan Xiong), has been extensively used in China for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases for about 40 years. Because of its effectiveness in multisystems, especially in cardiovascular, its pharmacological action, clinical application, and the structural modification have attracted broad attention. In this paper its mechanisms of action, the clinical status, and synthetic derivatives will be reviewed briefly.
Phase Clustering Based Modulation Classification Algorithm for PSK Signal over Wireless Environment
Authors: An Qi , He Zi-shu , Li Hui-yong , Li Yong-hua
Published: September 2016

Promptitude and accuracy of signals’ non-data-aided (NDA) identification is one of the key technology demands in noncooperative wireless communication network, especially in information monitoring and other electronic warfare. Based on this background, this paper proposes a new signal classifier for phase shift keying (PSK) signals. The periodicity of signal’s phase is utilized as the assorted character, with which a fractional function is constituted for phase clustering. Classification and the modulation order of intercepted signals can be achieved through its Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) of the phase clustering function. Frequency offset is also considered for practical conditions. The accuracy of frequency offset estimation has a direct impact on its correction. Thus, a feasible solution is supplied. In this paper, an advanced estimator is proposed for estimating the frequency offset and balancing estimation accuracy and range under low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) conditions. The influence on estimation range brought by the maximum correlation interval is removed through the differential operation of the autocorrelation of the normalized baseband signal raised to the power ofQ. Then, a weighted summation is adopted for an effective frequency estimation. Details of equations and relevant simulations are subsequently presented. The estimator proposed can reach an estimation accuracy of10-4even when the SNR is as low as-15 dB. Analytical formulas are expressed, and the corresponding simulations illustrate that the classifier proposed is more efficient than its counterparts even at low SNRs.
Bilateral Diabetic Knee Neuroarthropathy in a Forty-Year-Old Patient
Authors: Goetti Patrick , Gallusser Nicolas , Borens Olivier
Published: September 2016

Diabetic osteoarthropathy is a rare cause of neuropathic joint disease of the knee; bilateral involvement is even more exceptional. Diagnosis is often made late due to its unspecific symptoms and appropriate surgical management still needs to be defined, due to lack of evidence because of the disease’s low incidence. We report the case of a forty-year-old woman with history of diabetes type I who developed bilateral destructive Charcot knee arthropathy. Bilateral total knee arthroplasty was performed in order to achieve maximal functional outcome. Follow-up was marked by bilateral tibial periprosthetic fractures treated by osteosynthesis with a satisfactory outcome. The diagnosis of Charcot arthropathy should always be in mind when dealing with atraumatic joint destruction in diabetic patients. Arthroplasty should be considered as an alternative to arthrodesis in bilateral involvement in young patients.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia Relapse Presenting as Complete Monocular Vision Loss due to Optic Nerve Involvement
Authors: Patel Shyam A.
Published: September 2016

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) involvement of the central nervous system is relatively rare, and detection of leptomeningeal disease typically occurs only after a patient presents with neurological symptoms. The case herein describes a 48-year-old man with relapsed/refractory AML of the mixed lineage leukemia rearrangement subtype, who presents with monocular vision loss due to leukemic eye infiltration. MRI revealed right optic nerve sheath enhancement and restricted diffusion concerning for nerve ischemia and infarct from hypercellularity. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed a total WBC count of 81/mcl with 96% AML blasts. The onset and progression of visual loss were in concordance with rise in peripheral blood blast count. A low threshold for diagnosis of CSF involvement should be maintained in patients with hyperleukocytosis and high-risk cytogenetics so that prompt treatment with whole brain radiation and intrathecal chemotherapy can be delivered. This case suggests that the eye, as an immunoprivileged site, may serve as a sanctuary from which leukemic cells can resurge and contribute to relapsed disease in patients with high-risk cytogenetics.
Spectra and Elliptic Flow of (Multi)Strange Hadrons at RHIC and LHC within Viscous Hydrodynamics + Hadron Cascade Hybrid Model
Authors: Zhu Xiangrong
Published: September 2016

Using the (2+1)-dimensional ultrarelativistic viscous hydrodynamics + hadron cascade,VISHNU, hybrid model, we study thepT-spectra and elliptic flow ofΛ,Ξ, andΩin Au + Au collisions atsNN= 200 GeV and in Pb + Pb collisions atsNN= 2.76 TeV. Comparing our model results with the data measurements, we find that theVISHNUmodel gives good descriptions of the measurements of these strange and multistrange hadrons at several centrality classes at RHIC and LHC. Mass ordering of elliptic flowv2amongπ,K,p,Λ,Ξ, andΩare further investigated and discussed at the two collision systems. We find that, at both RHIC and LHC,v2mass ordering amongπ,K,p, andΩis fairly reproduced within theVISHNUhybrid model, and more improvements are needed to be implemented for well describingv2mass ordering amongp,Λ, andΞ.
Enzymatic Synthesis of Sorboyl-Polydatin Prodrug in Biomass-Derived 2-Methyltetrahydrofuran and Antiradical Activity of the Unsaturated Acylated Derivatives
Authors: Wang Zhaoyu , Bi Yanhong , Yang Rongling , Zhao Xiangjie , Jiang Ling , Zhu Chun , Zhao Yuping , Jia Jianbo
Published: September 2016

Efficient and highly regioselective synthesis of the potential 6′′-O-sorboyl-polydatin prodrug in biomass-derived 2-methyltetrahydrofuran (2-MeTHF) was achieved usingCandida antarcticalipase B for the first time. Under the optimal conditions, the initial reaction rate, maximum substrate conversion, and 6′′-regioselectivity were as high as 8.65 mM/h, 100%, and 100%, respectively. Kinetic and operational stability investigations evidently demonstrated excellent enzyme compatibility of the 2-MeTHF compared to the traditional organic solvents. With respect to the antioxidant properties, three unsaturated ester derivatives showed slightly lower DPPH radical scavenging activities than the parent agent. Interestingly, further studies also revealed that the antiradical capacities of the acylates decreased with the elongation of the unsaturated aliphatic chain length from C4 to C11. The reason might be attributed to the increased steric hindrance derived from the acyl residues in derivatives.
Obstacles and Enablers on the Way towards Integrated Physical Activity Policies for Childhood Obesity Prevention: An Exploration of Local Policy Officials’ Views
Authors: Hendriks Anna-Marie , Habraken Jolanda M. , Kremers Stef P. J. , Jansen Maria W. J. , Oers Hans van , Schuit Albertine J.
Published: September 2016

Background. Limited physical activity (PA) is a risk factor for childhood obesity. In Netherlands, as in many other countries worldwide, local policy officials bear responsibility for integrated PA policies, involving both health and nonhealth domains. In practice, its development seems hampered. We explore which obstacles local policy officials perceive in their effort.Methods. Fifteen semistructured interviews were held with policy officials from health and nonhealth policy domains, working at strategic, tactic, and operational level, in three relatively large municipalities. Questions focused on exploring perceived barriers for integrated PA policies. The interviews were deductively coded by applying the Behavior Change Ball framework.Findings. Childhood obesity prevention appeared on the governmental agenda and all officials understood the multicausal nature. However, operational officials had not yet developed a tradition to develop integrated PA policies due to insufficient boundary-spanning skills and structural and cultural differences between the domains. Tactical level officials did not sufficiently support intersectoral collaboration and strategic level officials mainly focused on public-private partnerships.Conclusion. Developing integrated PA policies is a bottom-up innovation process that needs to be supported by governmental leaders through better guidingorganizational processesleading to such policies. Operational level officials can assist in this by making progress in intersectoral collaboration visible.
A Half-Discrete Hilbert-Type Inequality in the Whole Plane with Multiparameters
Authors: Ma Qunwei , Yang Bicheng , He Leping
Published: September 2016

By the use of weight functions and technique of real analysis, a new half-discrete Hilbert-type inequality in the whole plane with multiparameters and the best possible constant factor is given. Furthermore, the equivalent forms, two kinds of particular inequalities, and the operator expressions with the norm are considered.
Successful Retrieval of a Dismembered Central Venous Catheter Stuck to the Right Pulmonary Artery Using a Stepwise Approach
Authors: Nakabayashi Keisuke , Nomura Hidekimi , Isomura Daichi , Sugiura Ryo , Oka Toshiaki
Published: September 2016

Recent advances in anticancer chemotherapy have resulted in an increase in the number of patients requiring a central venous port catheter, and the incidence of catheter pinch-off syndrome has been increasing. Catheter pinch-off syndrome is a rare and unusual complication. It is difficult to retrieve dislodged catheters from the pulmonary artery, especially if the catheter is stuck to the peripheral pulmonary artery. We herein describe the successful removal of a catheter stuck in the pulmonary artery with a stepwise approach. First, a pigtail catheter was used to tug the dislodged catheter in order to free the unilateral end. Then, a gooseneck snare was used to catch and pull the catheter out of the patient. The key to success is to free the end of the catheter.
Organ Preservation in a Case of Retroperitoneal Ganglioneuroma: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Singh Shivanshu , Chandna Abhishek
Published: September 2016

The retroperitoneum is a closed space harbouring vital organs including the great vessels, kidneys and adrenal glands, ureters, and the ascending and descending colon. Surgical management of retroperitoneal pathologies may need multiorgan resection in order to achieve complete surgical resection while preservation of surrounding organs should be attempted, especially in case of benign tumors. We present a case of 15-year-old girl with an 11 × 6 × 5 cm retroperitoneal ganglioneuroma displacing the right kidney, renal vein, and ureter and abutting the IVC which was excised in toto preserving the right kidney and ureter with careful dissection around the great vessels. We also attempt to review the various surgical options available while dealing with these benign retroperitoneal tumors which are often detected incidentally and usually surround important retroperitoneal organs and vessels.
The Accuracy of Broselow Tape Weight Estimate among Pediatric Population
Authors: AlHarbi Turki M. , AlGarni Abdullaziz , AlGamdi Fasial , Jawish Mona , Wani Tariq Ahmad , Abu-Shaheen Amani K.
Published: September 2016

Objective.To determine the accuracy of the Broselow Tape (BT) versions 2007 and 2011 in estimating weight among pediatric population.Methods.A cross-sectional study was conducted at King Fahad Medical City and six schools across Riyadh province on 1–143-month-old children. BT 2007 and 2011 estimated weights were recorded. Both tapes via the child’s height produce an estimated weight, which was compared with the actual weight.Results.A total of 3537 children were recruited. The height (cm) of the subjects was97.7±24.1and the actual weight (kg) was16.07±8.9, whereas the estimated weight determined by BT 2007 was15.87±7.56and by BT 2011 was16.38±7.95. Across all the five age groups, correlation between actual weight and BT 2007 ranged between 0.702 and 0.788, while correlation between actual weight and BT 2011 ranged between 0.698 and 0.788. Correlation between BT 2007 and BT 2011 across all the five age groups ranged from 0.979 to 0.989. Accuracy of both the tape versions was adversely affected when age was >95 months and body weight was >26 kilograms.Conclusions.Our study showed that BT 2007 and 2011 provided accurate estimation of the body weight based on measured body height. However, 2011 version provided more precise estimate for weight.
Increased Serum Level of MicroRNA-663 Is Correlated with Poor Prognosis of Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Liang Shaoqiang , Zhang Ning , Deng Yanming , Chen Lusi , Zhang Yang , Zheng Zhenhe , Luo Weijun , Lv Zhiqian , Li Shaoen , Xun Tao
Published: September 2016

MicroRNAs (miRs) play crucial roles in the carcinogenesis and malignant progression of human cancers including nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). In this study, we aimed to investigate the association of serum miR-663 levels with the clinical factors and prognosis of NPC patients. Real-time PCR was performed to examine the amount of miR-663 in serum in NPC patients and healthy controls. Our data showed that the amount of miR-663 in serum was significantly higher in NPC patients than in healthy controls. Moreover, the serum levels of miR-663 were significantly correlated with the grade, lymph node metastasis, and clinical stage of NPC. Furthermore, higher serum miR-663 levels were closely associated with worse 5-year overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) of patients with NPC, and the serum level of miR-663 was found to be an independent predicator for the prognosis of NPC. In addition, after receiving chemoradiotherapy, the serum levels of miR-663 were significantly reduced in NPC patients. In summary, miR-663 was upregulated in the serum of NPC patients, which was downregulated after chemoradiotherapy, and its increased levels were closely associated with malignant progression and poor prognosis in NPC patients. Therefore, the amount of miR-663 in serum may become a potential predicator for the clinical outcome of NPC patients.
Association between Serum Cystatin C and Diabetic Foot Ulceration in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zhao Jie , Deng Wuquan , Zhang Yuping , Zheng Yanling , Zhou Lina , Boey Johnson , Armstrong David G. , Yang Gangyi , Liang Ziwen , Chen Bing
Published: September 2016

Serum cystatin C (CysC) has been identified as a possible potential biomarker in a variety of diabetic complications, including diabetic peripheral neuropathy and peripheral artery disease. We aimed to examine the association between CysC and diabetic foot ulceration (DFU) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). 411 patients with T2D were enrolled in this cross-sectional study at a university hospital. Clinical manifestations and biochemical parameters were compared between DFU group and non-DFU group. The association between serum CysC and DFU was explored by binary logistic regression analysis. The cut point of CysC for DFU was also evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The prevalence of coronary artery disease, diabetic nephropathy (DN), and DFU dramatically increased with CysC (P<0.01) in CysC quartiles. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that the significant risk factors for DFU were serum CysC, coronary artery disease, hypertension, insulin use, the differences between supine and sitting TcPO2, and hypertension. ROC curve analysis revealed that the cut point of CysC for DFU was 0.735 mg/L. Serum CysC levels correlated with DFU and severity of tissue loss. Our study results indicated that serum CysC was associated with a high prevalence of DFU in Chinese T2D subjects.
Epidural Analgesia with Ropivacaine during Labour in a Patient with a SCN5A Gene Mutation
Authors: van der Knijff-van Dortmont A. L. M. J. , Dirckx M. , Duvekot J. J. , Roos-Hesselink J. W. , Gonzalez Candel A. , van der Marel C. D. , Scoones G. P. , Adriaens V. F. R. , Dons-Sinke I. J. J.
Published: September 2016

SCN5A gene mutations can lead to ion channel defects which can cause cardiac conduction disturbances. In the presence of specific ECG characteristics, this mutation is called Brugada syndrome. Many drugs are associated with adverse events, making anesthesia in patients with SCN5A gene mutations or Brugada syndrome challenging. In this case report, we describe a pregnant patient with this mutation who received epidural analgesia using low dose ropivacaine and sufentanil during labour.
Cranial Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Elderly American Indians: Design, Methods, and Implementation of the Cerebrovascular Disease and Its Consequences in American Indians Study
Authors: Suchy-Dicey Astrid M. , Shibata Dean , Best Lyle G. , Verney Steven P. , Longstreth, Jr. William T. , Lee Elisa T. , Okin Peter M. , Devereux Richard , O'Leary Marcia , Ali Tauqeer , Jensen Paul N. , Muller Clemma , Nelson Lonnie A. , Rhoades Everett , Madhyastha Tara , Grabowski Thomas J. , Beauchamp Norman , Umans Jason G. , Buchwald Dedra
Published: September 2016

The Cerebrovascular Disease and its Consequences in American Indians (CDCAI) Study recruited surviving members of a 20-year, longitudinal, population-based cohort of American Indians focused on cardiovascular disease, its risk factors, and its consequences. The goal of the CDCAI Study is to characterize the burden, risk factors, and manifestations of vascular brain injury identified on cranial MRI. The CDCAI Study investigators enrolled 1,033 participants aged 60 and older from 11 American Indian communities and tribes in the Northern Plains, Southern Plains, and Southwestern United States. In addition to cranial MRI performed according to standardized protocols, participants underwent extensive medical interview, clinical examination, neurocognitive testing, physical function evaluation, electrocardiogram, and provided blood and urine specimens. Participants also self-administered questionnaires covering demographics, quality of life, and medical history. This report describes the design, implementation, and some of the unique challenges of this study and data collection.
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Facilitates Functional Recovery from ALS-Cerebral Spinal Fluid-Induced Neurodegenerative Changes in the NSC-34 Motor Neuron Cell Line
Authors: Shruthi Shanmukha , Sumitha R. , Varghese Anu Mary , Ashok S. , Chandrasekhar Sagar B.K. , Sathyaprabha T.N. , Nalini A. , Kramer Boris W. , Raju Trichur R. , Vijayalakshmi K. , Alladi Phalguni Anand
Published: September 2016

Background: The survival of motor neurons is dependent upon neurotrophic factors both during childhood and adolescence and during adult life. In disease conditions, such as in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the mRNA levels of trophic factors like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2), and vascular endothelial growth factor are downregulated. This was replicated in our in vivo experimental system following the injection of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) of sporadic ALS (ALS-CSF) patients. Objective: To evaluate the protective role of BDNF in a model of sporadic ALS patients. Methods: The expressions of endogenous BDNF, its receptor TrkB, the enzyme choline acetyl transferase (ChAT), and phosphorylated neurofilaments were studied in NSC-34 cells. The calcium-buffering and proapoptotic effects were assessed by calbindin-D28K and caspase-3 expression, respectively. Results: ALS-CSF considerably depleted the endogenous BDNF protein, while its effect on IGF-1 and FGF-2 was inconsequential; this indirectly indicates a key role for BDNF in supporting motor neuronal survival. The exogenous supplementation of BDNF reversed autocrine expression; however, it may not be completely receptor mediated, as the TrkB levels were not restored. BDNF completely revived ChAT expression. It may inhibit apoptosis by restoring Ca2+ homeostasis, since caspase-3 and calbindin-D28K expression was back to normal. The organellar ultrastructural changes were only partially reversed. Conclusion: Our study provides evidence that BDNF supplementation ameliorates most but not all degenerative changes. The incomplete revival at the ultrastructural level signifies the requirement of factors other than BDNF for near-total protection of motor neurons, and, to an extent, it explains why only a partial success is achieved in clinical trials with BDNF in ALS patients.
Prevalence and Prognostic Impact of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure: Data from the GISSI-HF Trial
Authors: Canepa Marco , Temporelli Pier Luigi , Rossi Andrea , Rossi Andrea , Gonzini Lucio , Nicolosi Gian Luigi , Staszewsky Lidia , Marchioli Roberto , Maggioni Aldo Pietro , Tavazzi Luigi ,   on behalf of the GISSI-HF Investigators
Published: September 2016

Objectives: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common comorbidity in patients with heart failure (HF). We aimed to assess its prevalence, characterization and long-term prognostic impact in the GISSI-HF population. Methods: The study randomized 6,975 ambulatory HF patients to either n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids or placebo. We performed a retrospective analysis of clinical characteristics and outcomes of the 1,533 patients diagnosed with COPD (22%). Results: COPD was associated with a worse clinical presentation and an increased burden of comorbidities. At a median follow-up of 3.9 years, COPD was found to be an independent predictor of both predefined primary study end points, including all-cause mortality (HR 1.28, 95% CI 1.15-1.43, p < 0.0001) and all-cause mortality or hospitalization for cardiovascular reasons (HR 1.19, 95% CI 1.10-1.30, p < 0.0001). Both cardiovascular (HR 1.20, 95% CI 1.05-1.36, p = 0.007) and noncardiovascular mortality (HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.26-1.94, p < 0.0001) were significantly increased in COPD-HF patients, as well as hospitalizations for any reason (HR 1.23, 95% CI 1.14-1.34, p < 0.0001), for cardiovascular reasons (HR 1.16, 95% CI 1.06-1.27, p = 0.002) and for HF (HR 1.27, 95% CI 1.14-1.43, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: COPD is an independent predictor of mortality and hospitalizations in ambulatory HF patients. Increased awareness and improved management of COPD may reduce the burden of this morbidity to patients with HF.
Treatment of Retinitis Pigmentosa-Associated Cystoid Macular Oedema Using Intravitreal Aflibercept (Eylea) despite Minimal Response to Ranibizumab (Lucentis): A Case Report
Authors: Strong Stacey A. , Gurbaxani Avinash , Michaelides Michel
Published: September 2016

Background: We present an interesting case of bilateral retinitis pigmentosa (RP)-associated cystoid macular oedema that responded on two separate occasions to intravitreal injections of aflibercept, despite previously demonstrating only minimal response to intravitreal ranibizumab. This unique case would support a trial of intravitreal aflibercept for the treatment of RP-associated cystoid macular oedema. Case Presentation: A 38-year-old man from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, presented to the UK with a 3-year history of bilateral RP-associated cystoid macular oedema. Previous treatment with topical dorzolamide, oral acetazolamide, and intravitreal ranibizumab had demonstrated only minimal reduction of cystoid macular oedema. Following re-confirmation of the diagnosis by clinical examination and optical coherence tomography imaging, bilateral loading doses of intravitreal aflibercept were given. Central macular thickness reduced and the patient returned to Dubai. After 6 months, the patient was treated with intravitreal ranibizumab due to re-accumulation of fluid and the unavailability of aflibercept in Dubai. Only minimal reduction of central macular thickness was observed. Once available in Dubai, intravitreal aflibercept was administered bilaterally with further reduction of central macular thickness observed. Visual acuity remained stable throughout. Conclusions: This is the first case report to demonstrate a reduction of RP-associated CMO following intravitreal aflibercept, despite inadequate response to ranibizumab on two separate occasions. Aflibercept may provide superior action to other anti-VEGF medications due to its intermediate size (115 kDa) and higher binding affinity. This is worthy of further investigation in a large prospective cohort over an extended time to determine the safety and efficacy of intravitreal aflibercept for use in this condition.