bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Efficient Secure Trust Based Clustering Algorithm for Mobile Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Rehman Eid , Sher Muhammad , Naqvi Syed Hussnain Abbas , Badar Khan Khan , Ullah Kamran
Published: August 2017

The main benefit of selecting a suitable node as cluster head (CH) in clustering for wireless mobile sensor networks (MWSNs) is to prolong the network lifetime. But the safe selection of CH is a challenging task by taking security into account. Mostly CH selection algorithms in MWSN do not consider security when selecting CH. We have proposed secure CH selection algorithm by calculating weight of each node to deal with secure selection using minimum energy consumption. The weight of node is a combination of different metrics including trust metric (behaviors of sensor node) which promotes a secure decision of a CH selection; in terms of this, the node will never be a malicious one. The trust metric is definitive and permits the proposed clustering algorithm to keep away from any malignant node in the area to select a CH, even if the rest of the parameters are in its favor. Other metrics of node include waiting time, connectivity degree, and distance among nodes. The selection of CHs is completed utilizing weights of member nodes. The preparatory outcomes acquired through simulation exhibit the adequacy of our proposed scheme as far as average rate of avoiding malicious node as a CH, energy efficiency, and some other performance parameters are concerned.
Efficacies of Various Anaerobic Starter Seeds for Biogas Production from Different Types of Wastewater
Authors: Chaiprasert Pawinee , Hudayah Nasrul , Auphimai Chompoonut
Published: August 2017

Various anaerobic starter seeds from different sources were investigated for their efficacies in treatment of different types of wastewater. Six combinations of starter seeds and wastewaters were selected out of 25 combination batch experiments and operated in semicontinuous reactors. It was noticed that the efficacies of various anaerobic starter seeds for biogas production from different types of wastewater in terms of reactor performance and stability were depended on wastewater characteristics and F/M ratio affecting microbial community and their microbial activities. However, exogenous starter seed can be used across different types of wastewater with or without acclimatization. Four reactors reached the targeted OLR of 2 kg COD/m3·d with high performance and stability except for concentrated rubber wastewater (RBw), even using high active starter seeds of cassava starch (CSs) and palm oil (POs). The toxic compounds in RBw such as ammonia and sulfate might also adversely affect methanogenic activity in CSsRBw and POsRBw reactors. DGGE analysis showed that propionate utilizers,Smithella propionicastrain LYP andSyntrophussp., were detected in all samples. ForArchaeadomain, methylotrophic, hydrogenotrophic, and acetoclastic methanogens were also detected. Syntrophic relationships were assumed between propionate utilizers and methanogens as acetate/H2 producers and utilizers, respectively.
Theoretical Model for the Performance of Liquid Ring Pump Based on the Actual Operating Cycle
Authors: Huang Si , He Jing , Wang Xueqian , Qiu Guangqi
Published: August 2017

Liquid ring pump is widely applied in many industry fields due to the advantages of isothermal compression process, simple structure, and liquid-sealing. Based on the actual operating cycle of “suction-compression-discharge-expansion,” a universal theoretical model for performance of liquid ring pump was established in this study, to solve the problem that the theoretical models deviated from the actual performance in operating cycle. With the major geometric parameters and operating conditions of a liquid ring pump, the performance parameters such as the actual capacity for suction and discharge, shaft power, and global efficiency can be conveniently predicted by the proposed theoretical model, without the limitation of empiric range, performance data, or the detailed 3D geometry of pumps. The proposed theoretical model was verified by experimental performances of liquid ring pumps and could provide a feasible tool for the application of liquid ring pump.
Secrecy Dimming Capacity in Multi-LED PAM-Based Visible Light Communications
Authors: Kim Byung Wook
Published: August 2017

Recently, mobile cloud computing (MCC) has gained a lot of interest for researchers building the next-generation mobile applications. Because unauthorized access may cause serious problems, security and privacy with MCC have become significant issues. This paper addresses the secrecy dimming capacity of secure transmission in MCC over visible light communication (VLC) channels. By obtaining the entropy-maximizing symbol probability of multiple light emitting diode- (LED-) based pulse amplitude modulation (PAM), mathematical analysis of the secrecy dimming capacity of VLC was derived. Simulation results show that the secure transmission ability of multi-LED-based VLC is determined according to the number of activated LEDs and target dimming level. This can be a guideline for practical VLC-based mobile network designers intending to secure wireless transmission and to decide on the number of activated LEDs at target dimming level to operate.
Robust Linear Neural Network for Constrained Quadratic Optimization
Authors: Liu Zixin , Liu Yuanan , Xiong Lianglin
Published: August 2017

Based on the feature of projection operator under box constraint, by using convex analysis method, this paper proposed three robust linear systems to solve a class of quadratic optimization problems. Utilizing linear matrix inequality (LMI) technique, eigenvalue perturbation theory, Lyapunov-Razumikhin method, and LaSalle’s invariance principle, some stable criteria for the related models are also established. Compared with previous criteria derived in the literature cited herein, the stable criteria established in this paper are less conservative and more practicable. Finally, a numerical simulation example and an application example in compressed sensing problem are also given to illustrate the validity of the criteria established in this paper.
Variable Ratio Hydrostatic Transmission Simulator for Optimal Wind Power Drivetrains
Authors: Garcia-Bravo Jose M. , Ayala-Garcia Ivo N. , Cepeda-Aguilar Juan L.
Published: August 2017

This work presents a hydromechanical transmission coupled to an electric AC motor and DC generator to simulate a wind power turbine drive train. The goal of this project was to demonstrate and simulate the ability of a hydrostatic variable ratio system to produce constant electric power at varying wind speeds. The experimental results show that the system can maintain a constant voltage when a 40% variation in input speed is produced. An accompanying computer simulation of the system was built and experimentally validated showing a discrete error no larger than 12%. Both the simulation and the experimental results show that the electrical power output can be regulated further if an energy storage device is used to absorb voltage spikes produced by abrupt changes in wind speed or wind direction.
Streptococcus intermedius: An Unusual Case of Purulent Pericarditis
Authors: Denby Kara J. , Byrne Ryan D. , Gómez-Duarte Oscar G.
Published: August 2017

Purulent pericarditis is a rare diagnosis with life-threatening implications due to the rapid accumulation of pericardial material, swiftly progressing to tamponade physiology. The nature of its quickly evolving and severe implications demands a low threshold for diagnostic consideration where appropriate. We present an unusual case of purulent pericarditis secondary to Streptococcus intermedius in a previously healthy male adolescent without traditional risk factors, which raises the question of whether emergent S. intermedius species may have acquired novel molecular mechanisms.
Plummer Vinson Syndrome: A Rare Syndrome in Male with Review of the Literature
Authors: Karthikeyan Priyadarshini , Aswath Nalini , Kumaresan Ramesh
Published: August 2017

Introduction. Plummer Vinson syndrome also known as Paterson Brown-Kelly syndrome is a syndrome associated with the triad of symptoms comprising microcytic hypochromic anemia, oesophageal strictures, and dysphagia. PVS is commonly found in women of middle age especially in the fourth and fifth decade of life and is rarely reported in males. Case Report. The authors report a case of 43-year-old male patient who presented with the classic symptoms of Plummer Vinson syndrome. Conclusion. Dentists have to be familiar with symptoms of PVS and a thorough clinical examination of the patient is necessary for early diagnosis and treatment. As PVS is a precancerous condition with high malignant potential, early diagnosis is of utmost importance for better prognosis. Clinical Significance. Mutual interaction of systemic and oral health has largely been underestimated by many patients in the developing countries and hence this report includes a note on importance of adequate medical history taking and its relevance to the dental health and treatment.
Exercise Affects Cardiopulmonary Function in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yang Hongchang , Wu Xueping , Wang Min
Published: August 2017

This study aimed to comprehensively assess the effects of exercise on cardiopulmonary function indices in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). A literature review was performed by searching literatures in PubMed and Embase before June 2016. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, followed by data extraction and a quality assessment of the included studies using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool. Correlations between exercise and cardiopulmonary function indices [pulse wave velocity, respiratory exchange ratio, and peak oxygen uptake (VO2 peak)] were then evaluated using mean differences and 95% confidence intervals. All meta-analyses were conducted using R 3.12 software. Finally, five eligible studies involving 179 CKD patients were included. After intervention, a heterogeneity test showed that the VO2 peak values of the treatment group were greater than those of the control group, whereas no significant differences were found for the other indices. However, a sensitivity analysis showed inconsistent results both before and after intervention. Thus, we concluded that exercise might play an important role in improving the VO2 peak values in CKD patients. Additional studies are needed to verify this conclusion.
Polymorphisms in lncRNA PTENP1 and the Risk of Gastric Cancer in a Chinese Population
Authors: Ge Yugang , He Yu , Jiang Mingkun , Luo Dakui , Huan Xiangkun , Wang Weizhi , Zhang Diancai , Yang Li , Zhou Jundong
Published: August 2017

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) phosphatase and tensin homolog pseudogene 1 (PTENP1) is significantly downregulated in gastric cancer (GC), playing critical roles in GC progression. However, the association between PTENP1 genetic variants and GC risk has not yet been reported. Using TaqMan technology, three lncRNA PTENP1 tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (tagSNPs) (rs7853346 C>G, rs865005 C>T, and rs10971638 G>A) were genotyped in 768 GC patients and 768 cancer-free controls in a Chinese population. We found that subjects with rs7853346 G allele had a remarkably decreased risk of GC, compared with those carrying C allele (P=0.011 in an additive model, P=0.033 after Bonferroni’s correction). The further stratified analyses showed that the link between variant genotypes of rs7853346 and decreased GC risk was more obvious in older subjects (≥60 years), nonsmokers, nondrinkers, and subjects without family history of GC. We also found that relative PTENP1 mRNA expression levels were higher in rs7853346 CG/GG genotype carriers than those with common genotype in both GC and normal tissues (P<0.05). Besides, bioinformatics analyses revealed that rs7853346 may change the local folding structure and alter the target microRNAs (miRNAs) of PTENP1. In conclusion, our results suggested that lncRNA PTENP1 polymorphism rs7853346 may predict GC susceptibility.
Unilateral Aplasia versus Bilateral Aplasia of the Vertebral Artery: A Review of Associated Abnormalities
Authors: Vasović L. , Trandafilović M. , Vlajković S. , Djordjević G. , Daković-Bjelaković M. , Pavlović M.
Published: August 2017

Morphological characteristics of 108 cases of uni- and bilateral aplasia of the vertebral artery (VA) in reports or images of retrospective studies, including one recent case, published between 1967 and 2016 are analyzed. Incidence, gender, persistence of carotid-vertebrobasilar anastomosis (CVBA), associated with other vascular variants, and vascular pathology in each group of uni- and bilateral VA aplasia are mutually compared. Most of the cases of VA aplasia in ages 31 to 80 were discovered in USA, Japan, and India. The bilateral VA aplasia is more common in the male gender than in the female one. The side of the VA aplasia had a significant effect on the side of CVBA persistence. Associated aplasia of other arteries was more common in cases of unilateral VA aplasia. The left VA was more commonly hypoplastic in cases of single right VA aplasia than the right VA in cases of single left VA aplasia. Aneurysms of definitive arteries were more frequent in cases of single right VA aplasia than in cases of single left VA aplasia. We claim that the aplasia of the VA probably depends on genetic factors in some races, while diseases are expressed usually in persons over 30 years of age.
Isolation, Identification, and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Bacteria Associated with Waterpipe Contaminants in Selected Area of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alaidarous Mohammed , Alanazi Meshal , Abdel-Hadi Ahmed
Published: August 2017

This study highlights the level of microbial contamination of waterpipe components in selected area of Saudi Arabia and the resistance of selected bacteria to different antibiotics was determined. A series of biochemical tests, microscopic examination, and screening on Vitek 2 compact (bioMérieux Inc., USA) system were done to characterize the bacterial isolates. Out of 132 samples investigated, 7 mouthpiece samples and 48 water bowl samples showed positivity on culture. The percentage of contamination rate was higher in water bowl (69.69%) than in mouthpieces (10.6%) for all selected areas. A total of 55 bacterial isolates were identified which included Gram-negative (28) and Gram-positive (27) bacteria. Antimicrobial susceptibility data showed more resistance to bacteria isolated from water bowl than bacteria isolated from mouthpiece. In addition, one isolate which was confirmed as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae was resistant to antibiotics which are commonly used to treat pneumonia. Water bowl of waterpipe instrument is significantly contaminated with different bacterial pathogens including multidrug-resistant and pneumonia causing bacteria, which are a real health concern among waterpipe smokers. The presented data could assist public health professionals to raise the concerns regarding cleaning practices of waterpipe components and highlights the risk posed among the waterpipe smokers.
Accelerated Lane-Changing Trajectory Planning of Automated Vehicles with Vehicle-to-Vehicle Collaboration
Authors: Bai Haijian , Shen Jianfeng , Wei Liyang , Feng Zhongxiang
Published: August 2017

Considering the complexity of lane changing using automated vehicles and the frequency of turning lanes in city settings, this paper aims to generate an accelerated lane-changing trajectory using vehicle-to-vehicle collaboration (V2VC). Based on the characteristics of accelerated lane changing, we used a polynomial method and cooperative strategies for trajectory planning to establish a lane-changing model under different degrees of collaboration with the following vehicle in the target lane by considering vehicle kinematics and comfort requirements. Furthermore, considering the shortcomings of the traditional elliptical vehicle and round vehicle models, we established a rectangular vehicle model with collision boundary conditions by analysing the relationships between the possible collision points and the outline of the vehicle. Then, we established a simulation model for the accelerated lane-changing process in different environments under different degrees of collaboration. The results show that, by using V2VC, we can achieve safe accelerated lane-changing trajectories and simultaneously satisfy the requirements of vehicle kinematics and comfort control.
Characteristics Defining Broccoli Cultivars from Different Seed Producers
Authors: Ordiales Elena , Iglesias Domingo J. , Alarcón María Victoria , Zajara Lorena , Gil Jesús , Gutiérrez Juan Ignacio , Salguero Julio
Published: August 2017

Broccoli (Brassica oleraceaL. var.italica) is currently considered a main vegetable food in the markets due to its high nutritional value, containing elevated levels of phytochemicals widely described to have beneficial effects against cancer and other illnesses. Broccoli is an interesting crop with a high commercial value because it complements the tomato industry, the main agricultural income in Badajoz, Spain. Nine varieties of broccoli from four nurseries were evaluated by analyzing both agronomic and quality parameters. Total yield and number of harvests were monitored. Parameters defining quality like diameter, weight, and height of the heads were determined. Granulometry, compactness, and the presence of internal leaves in the heads were also analyzed. Diameter and height of sprouts were complementarily estimated. Principal component analysis was further employed to investigate the relationship between the agronomic variables and the cultivars and nurseries. Results revealed that both first and second principal components explained more than 75% of the variance and grouped data according their cultivar and commercial origin. Additionally, correlations between the scores of those components and the values of the phenotypic parameters suggested that head weights are main determinants of the phenotypic differences observed among the cultivars whereas the presence of internal leaves and granulometry and head weight appear to be key traits defining nurseries.
The Risk Factors of High Blood Pressure among Young Adults in the Tujia-Nationality Settlement of China
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Xiang Zheng , Shi Xiangrong , Schenck Hannah , Yi Xinfeng , Ni Rong , Liu Chaoneng
Published: August 2017

Demographics questionnaires, and fitness tests were utilized to identify the risk factors of hypertension among younger adults in the years 2005, 2010, and 2014 in China’s southwest province of Hubei. The results demonstrated that the prevalence of hypertension was higher between 2011 and 2014 among the young people in this area. The main risk factors of developing hypertension were found to be sex (as man), individuals over 40 years old, blue collar employees who worked in rural areas, overweight/obesity, and those with the low CRF.
Rheology and Microbiology of Sludge from a Thermophilic Aerobic Membrane Reactor
Authors: Abbà Alessandro , Collivignarelli Maria Cristina , Manenti Sauro , Pedrazzani Roberta , Todeschini Sara , Bertanza Giorgio
Published: August 2017

A thermophilic aerobic membrane reactor (TAMR) treating high-strength COD liquid wastes was submitted to an integrated investigation, with the aim of characterizing the biomass and its rheological behaviour. These processes are still scarcely adopted, also because the knowledge of their biology as well as of the physical-chemical properties of the sludge needs to be improved. In this paper, samples of mixed liquor were taken from a TAMR and submitted to fluorescent in situ hybridization for the identification and quantification of main bacterial groups. Measurements were also targeted at flocs features, filamentous bacteria, and microfauna, in order to characterize the sludge. The studied rheological properties were selected as they influence significantly the performances of membrane bioreactors (MBR) and, in particular, of the TAMR systems that operate under thermophilic conditions (i.e., around 50°C) with high MLSS concentrations (up to 200 gTS L−1). The proper description of the rheological behaviour of sludge represents a useful and fundamental aspect that allows characterizing the hydrodynamics of sludge suspension devoted to the optimization of the related processes. Therefore, in this study, the effects on the sludge rheology produced by the biomass concentration, pH, temperature, and aeration were analysed.
Chitinase-3-Like Protein 1 (YKL-40) Is a New Biomarker of Inflammation in Psoriasis
Authors: Salomon Joanna , Matusiak Łukasz , Nowicka-Suszko Danuta , Szepietowski Jacek C.
Published: August 2017

Purpose. The evaluation of new inflammatory biomarkers in psoriasis could determine therapeutic decisions. Chitinase-3-like protein 1 (YKL-40) plays a role in inflammation. The study was undertaken to check whether YKL-40 is a reliable biomarker of inflammation in psoriasis. Materials and Methods. 55 psoriatic patients were enrolled, including 21 men and 34 women, aged from 18 to 88 years. The PASI and body surface area were calculated for all patients. Blood samples were taken to evaluate serum concentration of YKL-40, as well as other inflammatory parameters, including CRP, ESR, white blood cell count, and neutrophil count. The measurements of YKL-40 level were performed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results. YKL-40 serum concentration was significantly higher in psoriatic patients than in the control group. No correlations were found between YKL-40 levels and other clinical or laboratory parameters. Serum YKL-40 level was elevated in 81.8% patients, whereas CRP and WBC in 20% and 7.3% of patients, respectively. Conclusions. YKL-40 could be considered as a useful biomarker of inflammation in psoriasis and is more sensitive than CRP or WBC. Increased YKL-40 may indicate psoriatic patients with a higher level of systemic inflammation, which may determine disease management.
Insulin Resistance in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Is Associated with Low Appendicular Lean Mass
Authors: Müller Raili , Kull Mart , Lember Margus , Põlluste Kaja , Valner Annika , Kallikorm Riina
Published: August 2017

In established rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the presence of insulin resistance (IR) is well proven but, in the early stage of the disease, data are inconclusive. We evaluated the presence of IR and associations with body composition (BC) parameters among early RA (ERA) and control subjects. The study group consisted of 92 ERA and 321 control subjects. Using homeostatic model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR), the cut-off value for IR was 2.15. 56% of the ERA patients and 25% of the controls had IR. Of the BC parameters, patients with early RA had less fat-free mass and appendicular lean mass (ALM). In multivariable model, ERA group (b-Coefficient) (4.8, CI: 2.6–8.8), male gender (7.7, CI: 2.7–22.1), and fat mass index (1.2, CI: 1.1–1.4) were associated with IR. Insulin-resistant ERA patients had higher inflammatory markers and higher disease activity. In the multivariable model in the ERA group, IR was associated with male gender (b-Coefficient) (7.4, CI: 153–34.9), high disease activity (6.2, CI: 1.7–22.2), and lower ALM (0.03, CI: 0.001–0.97). IR develops in the early stage of RA in the majority of patients. IR is more common among males and is associated with RA disease activity and lower ALM.
Vascular Tissue Engineering: Effects of Integrating Collagen into a PCL Based Nanofiber Material
Authors: Bertram Ulf , Steiner Dominik , Poppitz Benjamin , Dippold Dirk , Köhn Katrin , Beier Justus P. , Detsch Rainer , Boccaccini Aldo R. , Schubert Dirk W. , Horch Raymund E. , Arkudas Andreas
Published: August 2017

The engineering of vascular grafts is a growing field in regenerative medicine. Although numerous attempts have been made, the current vascular grafts made of polyurethane (PU), Dacron®, or Teflon® still display unsatisfying results. Electrospinning of biopolymers and native proteins has been in the focus of research to imitate the extracellular matrix (ECM) of vessels to produce a small caliber, off-the-shelf tissue engineered vascular graft (TEVG) as a substitute for poorly performing PU, Dacron, or Teflon prostheses. Blended poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL)/collagen grafts have shown promising results regarding biomechanical and cell supporting features. In order to find a suitable PCL/collagen blend, we fabricated plane electrospun PCL scaffolds using various collagen type I concentrations ranging from 5% to 75%. We analyzed biocompatibility and morphological aspectsin vitro. Our results show beneficial features of collagen I integration regarding cell viability and functionality, but also adverse effects like the loss of a confluent monolayer at high concentrations of collagen. Furthermore, electrospun PCL scaffolds containing 25% collagen I seem to be ideal for engineering vascular grafts.
Efficient Secure Multiparty Subset Computation
Authors: Zhou Sufang , Li Shundong , Dou Jiawei , Geng Yaling , Liu Xin
Published: August 2017

Secure subset problem is important in secure multiparty computation, which is a vital field in cryptography. Most of the existing protocols for this problem can only keep the elements of one set private, while leaking the elements of the other set. In other words, they cannot solve the secure subset problem perfectly. While a few studies have addressed actual secure subsets, these protocols were mainly based on the oblivious polynomial evaluations with inefficient computation. In this study, we first design an efficient secure subset protocol for sets whose elements are drawn from a known set based on a new encoding method and homomorphic encryption scheme. If the elements of the sets are taken from a large domain, the existing protocol is inefficient. Using the Bloom filter and homomorphic encryption scheme, we further present an efficient protocol with linear computational complexity in the cardinality of the large set, and this is considered to be practical for inputs consisting of a large number of data. However, the second protocol that we design may yield a false positive. This probability can be rapidly decreased by reexecuting the protocol with different hash functions. Furthermore, we present the experimental performance analyses of these protocols.
Association of Serum Ferritin with Diabetes and Alcohol in Patients with Non-Viral Liver Disease-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Siriwardana Rohan C. , Niriella Madunil A. , Dassanayake Anuradha , Ediriweera Dileepa , Gunetilleke Bhagya , Sivasundaram Thenuka , de Silva Janaka
Published: August 2017

Introduction: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a leading cause for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Sri Lanka. Diabetes mellitus, alcohol abuse, and liver inflammation are known to increase the risk of HCC. The present study evaluates serum ferritin levels in a cohort of patients with non-viral HCC (nvHCC). Methodology: Consecutive patients with nvHCC presenting to the Colombo North Liver transplant Service, Ragama, from January 2012 to July 2013 were investigated. All were negative for hepatitis B and C. At registration, 5 mL of serum was separated into plain tubes, stored at -80°C and analysed for ferritin using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Correlation between the serum ferritin and patient risk factors, liver status, and tumour characteristics were analysed. Results: There were 93 patients with nvHCC (median age 65 [12-82] years; 82 [88.2%] males). The median ferritin level was 246.2 μg/L, and 38 (40.86%) patients had elevated ferritin. Non-diabetics (median 363.5 mg/L, p = 0.003) and alcohol abusers (median 261.2 mg/L, p = 0.018) had higher ferritin levels. On multiple-variable analysis, being non-diabetic (p = 0.013) and alcoholic (p = 0.046) was significantly associated with high serum ferritin. No association was found with body mass index, tumour stage, size, macrovascular invasion, number of nodules, alpha-fetoprotein, bilirubin, international normalized ratio, and survival. Conclusion: In patients with nvHCC, serum ferritin levels are higher in non-diabetics and alcoholics.
Plasma Cluster Ions Reduce the IgE-Binding Capacity of House Dust Mite Allergens under a Simulated Indoor Environmental Condition
Authors: Okano Hiroaki , Fujimura Takashi , Fukuoka Norihiko , Hayashi Takaharu , Nishikawa Kazuo , Ono Kazuhisa , Kawamoto Seiji
Published: August 2017

Background: A high level of house dust mite (HDM) allergens in a living environment is a risk factor for both sensitization to these allergens and asthmatic attacks. We previously showed that plasma cluster ions (PCIs) impaired the IgE-binding capacity of atomized crude allergens prepared from Japanese cedar pollen and fungus under experimental conditions. Objective: We evaluated the capacity of PCIs to impair the IgE-binding capacity of airborne HDM allergens under a simulated indoor environmental condition. Methods: For the determination of the effects of PCIs on HDM allergens under an experimental condition, HDM extract was atomized as aqueous mist into a cylindrical experimental apparatus filled with PCIs. For the evaluation of the effects of PCIs under a simulated natural indoor environmental condition, dried HDM allergens were floated as airborne particles in an acryl cubic apparatus in the presence of PCIs. The IgE-binding capacities of the PCI- and sham-treated HDM allergens were analyzed by an ELISA. Results: The IgE-binding capacity of the HDM allergens was significantly impaired after PCI treatment compared to that after sham treatment under both experimental and simulated environmental conditions. The ELISA results demonstrated that the IgE-binding capacities of HDM allergens after PCI treatment showed 68 and 74% reductions compared to those after sham treatment under the experimental and simulated environmental conditions, respectively. Conclusions: PCIs have the capacity to impair the IgE-binding capacity of airborne HDM allergens in a simulated environmental condition.
Surgically Managed Pediatric Intracranial Aneurysms: How Different Are They from Adult Intracranial Aneurysms?
Authors: Deora Harsh , Rao Kannepalli V.L. Narasinga , Somanna Sampath , Srinivas Dwarakanath , Shukla Dhaval P. , Bhat Dhananjaya Ishwar
Published: August 2017

Purpose: Intracranial aneurysms in children are rare compared to those in adults, and their causes, presentations, and outcomes also vary. Thus, they need to be studied intricately and as an independent entity. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed intracranial saccular aneurysms in 44 children of <19 years of age who had been surgically treated during the last 30 years at our institute. We analyzed presentation, characteristics, size, multiplicity, cause, and eventual outcome, and compared these to the adult cases of aneurysms operated on during the same period. Results: The commonest site of aneurysm was the internal carotid artery (ICA), in 47.7%. Follow-up was available for 38 (86.4%) children. The median duration of follow-up was 14 months (range 1-89 months). A favorable outcome was seen in 31 cases (81.6%) and an unfavorable outcome (including 1 death) in 7 (18.4%). Conclusion: Intracranial aneurysms in children present with subarachnoid hemorrhage in a good grade. ICA bifurcation aneurysms are the commonest sites of occurrence. Surgery is safe and effective, and children seem to have a better outcome.
Survival and Associated Risk Factors of Selective Caries Removal Treatments in Primary Teeth: A Retrospective Study in a High Caries Risk Population
Authors: Melgar Ximena C. , Opdam Niek J.M. , Britto Correa Marcos , Franzon Renata , Demarco Flávio Fernando , Araujo Fernando B. , Casagrande Luciano
Published: August 2017

Objective: The aim of this retrospective study was to analyze the survival probability of selective caries removal (SCR) treatments in the primary teeth of children with high caries experience and factors potentially associated with treatment failure. Methods: The sample included SCR treatments conducted in anterior and posterior teeth without sedation or general anesthesia among children attending a university dental service. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to estimate the longevity of restorations and multivariate Cox regression with shared frailty was used to assess risk factors. Results: A total of 284 SCR treatments in 88 children (aged 5.2 ± 1.91 years) with high caries experience (mean dmft/DMFT = 11.1 ± 5.04) were analyzed. The 3-year survival reached 48.8%, with an annual failure rate of 21.2%. Restorative failures (n = 60) were found more frequently compared to pulp complications (n = 12). SCR performed in anterior primary teeth were more prone to failure (hazard ratio = 3.6, 95% CI: 1.94; 6.71). Patients with a higher amount of visible plaque experienced more failures in SCR treatments (hazard ratio 3.0, 95% CI:1.27; 7.07). Conclusions: In this retrospective study, SCR showed restricted survival when compared to other prospective clinical trials. Patient-related factors, especially the young age and high caries experience of the children, may represent a challenge for restoration survival. Regardless of the caries removal technique or restorative material, cariogenic biofilm has a negative effect on the survival of restorations, probably by acting directly on material deterioration and, particularly, on the development of new caries lesions of rapid progression.
A Case of Severe Anaphylaxis to Polyhexanide: Cross-Reactivity between Biguanide Antiseptics
Authors: Schunter Jo Ana , Stöcker Benedikt , Brehler Randolf
Published: August 2017

We present the case of a 77-year-old female patient who suffered from severe anaphylaxis during wound care. Allergologic evaluation yielded specific IgE antibodies to chlorhexidine, but anaphylaxis to chlorhexidine was not congruent with the patient history and dermal provocation tests. However, skin prick tests provided evidence for a sensitization to polyhexanide that was further supported by the detection of specific IgE antibodies to polyhexanide, the results of basophil activation tests and IgE inhibition analysis. We presume cross-reactive IgE antibodies binding to both biguanide antiseptics and identified polyhexanide as the likely cause of the anaphylactic reaction. We recognize polyhexanide as an emerging allergen that has to be considered as a cause of anaphylaxis.
Two Novel Pathogenic MID1 Variants and Genotype-Phenotype Correlation Reanalysis in X-Linked Opitz G/BBB Syndrome
Authors: Maia Nuno , Nabais Sá Maria J. , Tkachenko Nataliya , Soares Gabriela , Marques Isabel , Rodrigues Bárbara , Fortuna Ana M. , Santos Rosário , de Brouwer Arjan P.M. , Jorge Paula
Published: August 2017

X-linked Opitz G/BBB syndrome (XLOS) is a multisystemic congenital condition, caused by mutations in the midline-1 gene (MID1), characterized by a large inter- and intrafamilial phenotypic variability and often associated with intellectual disability (ID). We report clinical, genetic, and molecular findings in 4 patients with typical XLOS dysmorphic features belonging to 2 unrelated families. Two novel pathogenic loss-of-function MID1 variants, a maternally inherited c.1656del and a de novo c.1215_1228dup, were identified. Subsequently, we performed a genotype-phenotype analysis using data from 91 male XLOS patients. To test the mutation impact on the phenotype; the type of mutation, the MID1-impaired domain and function were compared with the presence of each of the major clinical features (hypertelorism, clefts of the lip and/or palate, laryngo-tracheo-esophageal abnormalities, hypospadias and ID ) and minor clinical features (brain, heart, and anal defects). No statistically significant correlation was found with these features. Further investigations, as well as exhaustive and unequivocal phenotyping, may be required to improve our knowledge of the biological mechanisms underlying this syndrome and to provide more adequate disease management.
Eight Aeroallergen Skin Extracts May Be the Optimal Panel for Allergic Rhinitis Patients in Central China
Authors: Wang Jingru , Wu Yuying , Li Jie , Huang Xinyuan , Zhu Rongfei
Published: August 2017

Background: The prevalence of allergic rhinitis (AR) is increasing rapidly in Central China. The skin prick test (SPT) is the standard tool with which to determine the allergen sensitization status in AR patients. Changes in allergen sensitization patterns have been observed within countries and regions due to geographical and seasonal variations. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the profile of SPT reactivity to different aeroallergens in AR patients and to suggest a minimal panel of allergens to detect sensitized patients in Central China. Methods: From January 2015 to December 2016, patients who presented to Tongji Hospital with suspected AR were tested with the same panel of 19 aeroallergens. The results of SPT were analyzed to determine the minimum test battery panel necessary to cover 99% of the cases of SPT sensitization in different age subgroups. Results: A total of 2,416 patients (male:female ratio 1.2:1) were enrolled in our study with an average age of 22.0 years. The overall rate of sensitization to any allergen was 79.0%, and 64.3% of the subjects were monosensitized. The highest sensitized rate was found in the subgroup aged 14-18 years (92.0%), followed by the subgroups of 6-14 years (86.4%), >18 years (75.6%), and ≤6 years (74.9%). The most common sensitization was to Dermatophagoides farinae (71.1%). Testing with 8 allergens (D. pteronyssinus, D. farinae, Platanus, Artemisia, Cryptomeria, Blatella germanica, Humulus, and Alternaria) was sufficient to identify over 99% of the sensitized patients. Conclusion: An SPT panel covering 8 allergen extracts was able to detect almost all sensitized patients suffering from AR symptoms in Central China.
The Implications of DNA Methylation on Food Allergy
Authors: Lee Khui Hung , Song Yong , O'Sullivan Michael , Pereira Gavin , Loh Richard , Zhang Guicheng (Brad)
Published: August 2017

Food allergy is a major clinical and public health concern worldwide. The risk factors are well defined, however, the mechanisms by which they affect immune development remain largely unknown, and unfortunately the effective treatment or prevention of food allergy is still being researched. Recent studies show that the genes that are critical for the development of food allergy are regulated through DNA methylation. Environmental factors can affect host DNA methylation status and subsequently predispose people to food allergy. DNA methylation is therefore an important mediator of gene-environment interactions in food allergy and key to understanding the mechanisms underlying the allergic development. Indeed, the modification and identification of the methylation levels of specific genetic loci have gained increasing attention for therapeutic and diagnostic application in combating food allergy. In this review, we summarize and discuss the recent developments of DNA methylation in food allergy, including the pathogenesis, therapy, and diagnosis. This review will also summarize and discuss the environmental factors that affect DNA methylation levels in food allergy.
Designing Human Antibodies by Phage Display
Authors: Frenzel André , Kügler Jonas , Helmsing Saskia , Meier Doris , Schirrmann Thomas , Hust Michael , Dübel Stefan
Published: August 2017

With six approved products and more than 60 candidates in clinical testing, human monoclonal antibody discovery by phage display is well established as a robust and reliable source for the generation of therapeutic antibodies. While a vast diversity of library generation philosophies and selection strategies have been conceived, the power of molecular design offered by controlling the in vitro selection step is still to be recognized by a broader audience outside of the antibody engineering community. Here, we summarize some opportunities and achievements, e.g., the generation of antibodies which could not be generated otherwise, and the design of antibody properties by different panning strategies, including the adjustment of kinetic parameters.
Is Omentectomy Necessary for Non-Endometrioid Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Kaban Alpaslan , Topuz Samet , Erdem Baki , Sozen Hamdullah , Numanoğlu Ceyhun , Salihoğlu Yavuz
Published: August 2017

Background: In subtypes of non-endometrioid endometrium cancers (non-ECC), it is not clear whether the omentectomy is a part of debulking if visual assessment is normal. Recently, the ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO Endometrial Consensus Conference Working Group in their report titled “Endometrial Cancer: diagnosis, treatment and follow-up” recommended that omentectomy be performed in the serous subtype, but not in carcinosarcoma, undifferentiated endometrial carcinoma or clear cell. In this study, the question is whether omentectomy should be a part of a staging procedure in patients with non-ECC. Besides, the sensitivity and specificity of the visual assessment of omentum were analyzed. Methods: Patients diagnosed with non-ECC in 2 gynecological oncology clinics between 2005 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Occult (absence of visible lesions) and gross (presence of visible lesions) omental metastasis rates of histological subtypes were analyzed. Results: We identified 218 patients with non-ECC. Thirty-four of them (15.1%) had omental metastases and 44.1% of these metastases (n = 15) were occult metastases. The sensitivity of the surgeon's visual assessment of an omentum (positive or negative) was 0.55. The highest rate of omental metastasis was found in carcinosarcoma followed by serous, mixed subtypes, and clear-cell (20.4, 17.3, 16.6, 10.0%, respectively). Adnexal metastasis was the only factor associated with occult omental metastasis (p = 0.003). Conclusion: Omental metastases occur too often to omit omentectomy during surgical procedures for non-ECC regardless of histological subtypes, and visual assessment is insufficient in recognizing the often occult metastases. Omentectomy should be a part of the staging surgery in patients with non-ECC.
Capernaum: A ‘Hub’ for the Historical Jesus or the Markan Evangelist?
Authors: Zeichmann Christopher B.
Published: August 2017

One of the less controversial points among Jesus scholars is the importance of Capernaum to the historical Jesus, variously described as his ‘hub,’ ‘headquarters,’ ‘centre,’ etc. This article instead suggests that the importance of Capernaum may be understood as a specific to Mark’s depiction of Jesus and that Mark’s redactional interest in Capernaum prematurely treated as a datum concerning the historical Jesus. Indeed, exegetical insights about Mark’s interest in Galilee have more recently developed into arguments that the Second Gospel was composed somewhere in that region. This article will survey Mark’s characterization of the region to not only argue that Capernaum is a distinctively Markan point of interest, but that there is ample reason to believe that the Gospel was composed in that village.
Ehrman, Bauckham and Bird on Memory and the Jesus Tradition
Authors: Kirk Alan
Published: August 2017

The past twenty years have seen numerous studies applying memory research to problems in the history of the Jesus tradition and also in historical Jesus research, where it has become a point of controversy. Three recent book-length contributions to these debates are Bart Ehrman’s Jesus Before The Gospels (2016), the just-released second edition of Richard Bauckham’s 2006 volume, Jesus and the Eyewitnesses (2017), and Michael Bird’s The Gospel of the Lord (2014). Respectively these authors represent quite different appropriations of memory theory. Analysis of their contributions will clarify where, twenty years on, applications of memory theory in Gospels and Christian origins scholarship stand.
The Scourge of Jesus and the Roman Scourge
Authors: Nicolotti Andrea
Published: August 2017

According to the Gospels, Jesus suffered the flagellation before his crucifixion. The texts do not clarify the form and materials of the scourge that was utilized. Since the beginnings of the modern era, several commentators have speculated about the scourge’s form, on the basis of the Greek-Roman literary evidence and with reference to flagellation relics. In the last few centuries, scholars have provided new indications that are exemplified in great dictionaries and encyclopedic works of Greek-Roman archaeology and antiquities, as well as in the consultation works available to biblical scholars. However, a close re-examination of the whole evidence compels us to dismiss nearly all data and to conclude that we know almost nothing about the materials and form of the scourge used at Jesus’ time.
Canned Emotions. Effects of Genre and Audience Reaction on Emotions
Authors: Baranowski Andreas M. , Teichmann Rebecca , Hecht Heiko
Published: August 2017

Laughter is said to be contagious. Maybe this is why TV stations often choose to add so-called canned laughter to their shows. Questionable as this practice may be, observers seem to like it. If such a simple manipulation, assumingly by inducing positive emotion, can change our attitudes toward the film, does the opposite manipulation work as well? Does a negative sound-track, such as screaming voices, have comparable effects in the opposite direction? We designed three experiments with a total of 110 participants to test whether scream-tracks have comparable effects on the evaluation of film sequences as do laugh-tracks. Experiment 1 showed segments of comedies, scary, and neutral films and crossed them with three sound tracks of canned laughter, canned screams, and no audience sound. Observers had to rate the degree of their subjective amusement and fear as well as general liking and immersion. The sound-tracks had independent effects on amusement and fear, and increased immersion when the sound was appropriate. Experiment 2 was identical, but instead of canned sounds, confederates of the experimenter enacted the sound-track. Here, the effects were even stronger. Experiment 3 manipulated social pressure by explicit evaluations of the film clips, which were particularly influential in comedies. Scream tracks worked as well as laugh tracks, in particular when the film was only mildly funny or scary. The information conveyed by a sound track is able to change the evaluation of films regardless of their emotional nature.
New records of water mites from standing waters in Thailand, with the description of nine new species (Acari: Hydrachnidia)
Authors: SAVATENALINTON SUKONTHIP , SMIT HARRY
Published: August 2017

New data are presented of water mites from all kinds of standing waters in Thailand, e.g. reservoirs, ponds, lakes and rice fields. The following new species are described: Nilotonia palustris n. sp., Unionicola boonsaengi n. sp., U. grandiseta n. sp., Neumania diversa n. sp., Piona oryza n. sp., Africasia rotunda n. sp., Arrenurus acutocoxalis n. sp., A. dilatacaudatus n. sp. and A. thailandicus n. sp. The following synonyms are proposed: Mamersa paddicola Jin & Guo, 1993 as a junior synonym of M. rouxi and Limnesia microplatus Wen & Zhu, 2001 as a junior synonym of L. volzi Piersig, 1906. Twenty-five species are reported new for the fauna of Thailand.
Morphology and natural history of two species of bromeliad leaf beetles in the genus Calliaspis Dejean, 1836 from Southern Brazil, with a summary of the current knowledge of Imatidiini immatures (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae)
Authors: ALBERTONI FABIANO F.
Published: August 2017

This publication describes the natural history and morphology of the immatures of two beetles species associated with bromeliads, Calliaspis umbonata Hincks, 1956 and Calliaspis cinnabarina Boheman, 1850 (Cassidinae: Imatidiini). Immature stages were previously unknown for the genus. Adults and larvae of both species are leaf scrapers. Mature larvae of C. umbonata are described based on a set of characters previously published for immature beetles. Descriptions and illustrations are provided for both species, in addition to a summary of the information presently available for immature stages of Imatidiini.