bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal Radiation, Chemical Reaction and Viscous Dissipation Effects on Unsteady MHD Flow of Viscoelastic Fluid Embedded in a Porous Medium
Authors: Zigta Binyam
Published: July 2019

In this paper the effect of unsteady, incompressible, magneto hydrodynamics filled with electrically conducting viscoelastic fluid in an infinite vertical Couette porous channel wall embedded in a porous medium is analyzed. A uniform magnetic field is applied perpendicular to the channel wall. The temperature of the moving channel wall varies periodically and the temperature difference between the two infinite vertical channel walls is high due to thermal radiation. The Eckert number is the ratio of the kinetic energy of the flow to the temperature difference of the channel walls. The solution of the governing equations is obtained using regular perturbation techniques. These techniques are used to transform partial differential equations that are difficult to solve in closed form. These equations are reduced to a set of ordinary differential equations in dimensionless form so can be solved analytically. The effects of physical parameters Viz. Hartmann number, Viscoelastic parameter, Eckert number, Permeability of porous medium, Chemical reaction parameter, thermal Grashof number for heat transfer, modified Grashof number for mass transfer, frequency parameter and Schmidt number on flow parameters Viz., velocity, temperature and concentration has been discussed and shown graphically. The theoretical results have been supported by MATLAB code simulation study. The results show that velocity decreases with increasing values of frequency, Hartmann number and viscoelastic parameter but reverse effect is observed with temperature, thermal Grashof number, modified Grashof number and permeability of porous medium. Furthermore, The result shows that an increment in both thermal radiation parameter and Eckert number results in decrement of temperature near the moving porous channel wall while it approaches to a zero in the region close to the boundary layer of the stationary channel wall,. An increment in both chemical reaction and Schmidt number results in decreasing concentration. The velocity of fluid increases as Grashof number and modified Grashof number increases.
KORELASI KADAR SENG PLASMA DENGAN DERAJAT KEPARAHAN AKNE VULGARIS MAHASISWA FAKULTAS KEDOKTERAN UNIVERSITAS RIAU
Authors: Widiawaty Alida , Sari Dessi Indah , Priastiwi Sysca
Published: July 2019

Akne vulgaris merupakan penyakit radang kronik folikel pilosebasea yang banyak terjadi pada remaja. Manifestasi klinis berupa komedo, papul, pustul, nodus dan kista. Akne vulgaris merupakan penyakit yang dipengaruhi oleh banyak faktor, yaitu faktor genetik, lingkungan, hormon, stres, makanan, trauma, kosmetik, obat, serta defisiensi mineral misalnya seng. Kadar seng berpengaruh pada proses inflamasi, aktivitas Propionibacterium acnes, hiperproliferasi unit pilosebasea, dan produksi sebum yang merupakan patogenesis akne vulgaris. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui hubungan kadar seng plasma dengan derajat akne vulgaris pada mahasiswa Fakultas Kedokteran Universitas Riau. Desain penelitian ini adalah potong lintang analitik. Subjek penelitian ini adalah mahasiswa Fakultas Kedokteran Universitas Riau berjumlah 35 orang berusia > 18 tahun. Data yang diperoleh dianalisis secara statistik menggunakan uji korelasi Spearman. Hasil uji statistik kadar seng plasma dengan derajat akne vulgaris menunjukkan hubungan bermakna (p=0,003) dengan kekuatan korelasi sedang (r=-0,490) antara kadar seng plasma dengan derajat akne vulgaris. Hasil ini menunjukkan bahwa semakin rendah kadar seng plasma maka semakin berat derajat akne vulgaris yang dialami.Kata kunci: Akne vulgaris, derajat akne vulgaris, kadar seng
HUBUNGAN ANTARA KADAR IMMUNOGLOBULIN E SERUM DENGAN LAMANYA PASIEN MENDERITA ONIKOMIKOSIS
Authors: Wardani Meidina Kusuma , Hariani Eva , Amanda Cut Mirshella
Published: July 2019

Imunologi onikomikosis masih belum sepenuhnya dipahami. Pemahaman respons imun terhadap penyakit onikomikosis mungkin dapat membuka wawasan baru terhadap patogenesis dan terapi. Berdasarkan beberapa laporan kasus dan penelitian sebelumnya, dijumpai kadar immunoglobulin E (IgE) serum yang lebih tinggi pada pasien asma, rinitis, atau urtikaria yang menderita onikomikosis. Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk menilai hubungan antara kadar IgE serum dengan lamanya menderita onikomikosis pada populasi umum.Penelitian ini merupakan studi analitik dengan pendekatan potong lintang (cross sectional) yang melibatkan 20 pasien onikomikosis. Setelah diagnosis onikomikosis ditegakkan, pada setiap sampel dicatat lama sakit dan kemudian dilakukan pemeriksaan kadar IgE serum. Penelitian dilakukan di RSUP H. Adam Malik Medan pada bulan Juli 2016.Tidak dijumpai hubungan antara kadar IgE serum pasien onikomikosis dengan lama sakit (nilai p=0,959). Nilai rata-rata lamanya pasien menderita onikomikosis adalah 64,80 (simpang baku 10,12) bulan. Kadar minimum IgE serum 9,17 IU/mL dan kadar maksimumnya 8,388,20 IU/mL, serta nilai rata-rata 1,337,73 (simpang baku 472,55) IU/mL.Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan tidak terdapat hubungan yang bermakna antara kadar IgE serum pasien dengan lamanya menderita onikomikosis. Dari beberapa penelitian di Indonesia sebelumnya mengenai hubungan antara kadar IgE serum dengan onikomikosis belum menunjukkan hasil yang konsisten.Kata kunci: Onikomikosis, immunoglobulin E, lama sakit
TERAPI ISOTRETINOIN ORAL PADA PSORIASIS ERITRODERMA YANG MENYERUPAI IKTIOSIS HEREDITER: LAPORAN KASUS DAN TELAAH PUSTAKA
Authors: - Malvan , Radiono Sunardi , - Erdina , Danarti Retno
Published: July 2019

Â Â Â  Psoriasis eritroderma pada anak merupakan varian psoriasis yang paling jarang. Kelainan ini ditandai secara khas oleh eritema pada seluruh tubuh dengan skuama putih berlapis tebal, disertai ektropion, eklabium, dan onikodistrofi. Manifestasi kulit tersebut sering keliru didiagnosis sebagai iktiosis herediter. Salah satu pilihan terapi sistemik psoriasis eritroderma adalah isotretinoin oral. Obat tersebut bekerja dengan cara menghambat dan mengurangi diferensiasi dan hiperproliferasi keratinosit, serta mencegah infiltrasi sel radang di kulit pada psoriasis. Perlu diperhatikan bahwa isotretinoin dapat menimbulkan efek samping yang berakibat fatal.Â Â Â  Pada kasus dilaporkan seorang anak perempuan usia 4,5 tahun dengan kulit seluruh tubuh eritematosa ditutupi skuama putih, melekat, berlapis tebal, disertai ektropion dan eklabium, menyerupai iktiosis herediter. Dengan ditemukannya mikroabses Munro pada pemeriksaan histopatologi, pasien didiagnosis sebagai psoriasis eritroderma. Terapi dengan isotretinoin oral memberikan hasil yang memuaskan, namun menimbulkan efek samping berupa trombositopenia. Perlu pemantauan ketat dan evaluasi laboratorium rutin pada pemberian isotretinoin oral untuk psoriasis eritroderma anak, sehingga apabila ditemukan kelainan dapat segera dilakukan tatalaksana yang tepat.Kata kunci: psoriasis eritroderma, mikroabses Munro, isotretinoin oral, trombositopenia.
GIANT CONGENITAL MELANOCYTIC NEVUS: LAPORAN KASUS LANGKA
Authors: - Fitriani , Ayu Zahra , Aryani Inda Astri , K Soenarto
Published: July 2019

Giant congenital melanocytic nevus (GCMN) merupakan penyakit langka yang timbul saat lahir akibat sel melanosit tumbuh berlebih. Lesi pada GCMN sering ditemukan pada area punggung dan paha. Gambaran lesi berupa bercak hiperpigmentasi dengan ukuran lebih dari 20 cm dan terdapat rambut. Kondisi ini sering dihubungkan dengan neurokutaneus melanositosis dan melanoma maligna. Risiko neurokutaneus melanositosis meningkat signifikans bila lesi giant nevi terdapat pada regio kranial atau garis midline atau disertai lesi satelit. Rerata kumulatif risiko terjadinya melanoma dalam 5 tahun sebesar 4,5%. Pendekatan terapi masih menjadi tantangan dan bersifat individual bergantung pada usia, lokasi lesi, ukuran, risiko melanoma dan kemungkinan kelainan fungsi akibat tindakan invasif yang dilakukan serta dampak fisiologis terhadap luka pasca tindakan. Dilaporkan bayi perempuan usia 2 hari, lahir pervaginam, cukup bulan dari seorang ibu P4A0 menderita SLE yang diterapi metilprednisolon selama kehamilan. Status generalis dalam batas normal. Status dermatologikus pada regio skalp, fasialis, trunkus, ekstremitas superior dan inferior bilateral tampak makula-plak hiperpigmentasi, multipel, bulat-irregular, lentikuler-plakat, diskret; sebagian terdapat rambut, kulit sekitar normal; terdapat lesi satelit. Pada regio ekstremitas inferior sinistra terdapat lesi giant nevi dengan ukuran lebih dari 20 cm. Pada kasus ini diperlukan observasi yang baik dan pendekatan multidisiplin dalam tatalaksana GCMN.Kata kunci: Giant congenital melanocytic nevus, gambaran klinis, komplikasi.
Cultivation Substrate Composition Influences Morphology, Volatilome and Essential Oil of Lavandula Angustifolia Mill.
Authors: Najar Basma , Demasi Sonia , Caser Matteo , Gaino Walter , Cioni Pier Luigi , Pistelli Luisa , Scariot Valentina
Published: July 2019

Aromatic plants are commonly produced for ornamental, cosmetic and medicinal purposes. Their morphological traits and the amounts and compositions of the volatile substances and essential oils (EOs) produced can be influenced by several factors, including the cultivation technique. In the present study, the influence of substrate composition on Lavandula angustifolia Mill. production was evaluated. In particular, substrates containing mixes of peat (P), green compost (C) and/or demolition aggregates (A) were tested in the following ratios: 70%:30% v/v, P:C; 70%:30% v/v, P:A; and 40%:30%:30% v/v, P:C:A. The P:C mixture allowed to obtain the best results in terms of survival rate, compactness of the plant and flower production. The P:C:A led to higher yields and better quality of EOs, with higher amounts of linalool, an important compound for medicinal uses. The volatiles and the blooming trend were not affected by the different cultivation substrates. Therefore, substrate composition in pot lavender cultivation can be regulated depending on the final use of the plant, successfully using locally sourced material in addition to peat.
Offal Chemical Composition from Veal, Beef, and Lamb Maintained in Organic Production Systems
Authors: Biel Wioletta , Czerniawska-Piątkowska Ewa , Kowalczyk Alicja
Published: July 2019

The aim of the study is to compare the content of nutrients, including selected macro- and micro-elements, in musculus semitendinosus and offal (liver, heart, kidneys, tongue, brain) derived from animals (calves, beef cattle, and lambs) that are fed and maintained in organic production conditions. The experimental material consisted of 60 animals: 20 calves, 20 beef cattle, and 20 lambs. This research was carried out using Limousin cattle and Ile de France sheep. From the obtained results, it is concluded that the physicochemical and nutrient composition varied significantly among the organs and species studied. Almost all byproducts are a rich source of trace elements, whose levels/amounts are usually much higher in byproducts such as offal than in muscular tissues. Also, for economic reasons (profitability), byproducts (offal) can be commercially sold for human and animal nutrition. Byproducts are processed and incorporated into many food products and provide competitive nutritional value for use by tissues and muscles (vitamins and elements).
Strategies to Improve Resveratrol Systemic and Topical Bioavailability: An Update
Authors: Intagliata Sebastiano , Modica Maria N. , Santagati Ludovica M. , Montenegro Lucia
Published: July 2019

In recent years, a great deal of attention has been paid to natural compounds due to their many biological effects. Polyphenols are a class of plant derivatives that have been widely investigated for preventing and treating many oxidative stress-related pathological conditions, such as neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes mellitus and inflammation. Among these polyphenols, resveratrol (RSV) has attracted considerable interest owing to its high antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. However, the poor water solubility and rapid metabolism of RSV lead to low bioavailability, thus limiting its clinical efficacy. After discussing the main biochemical mechanisms involved in RSV biological activities, this review will focus on the strategies attempted to improve RSV effectiveness, both for systemic and for topical administration. In particular, technological approaches involving RSV incorporation into different delivery systems such as liposomes, polymeric and lipid nanoparticles, microemulsions and cyclodextrins will be illustrated, highlighting their potential clinical applications. In addition, chemical modifications of this antioxidant aimed at improving its physicochemical properties will be described along with the results of in vitro and in vivo studies.
Changes in the Antioxidant Properties of Extra Virgin Olive Oil after Cooking Typical Mediterranean Vegetables
Authors: Ramírez-Anaya Jessica del Pilar , Castañeda-Saucedo Ma. Claudia , Olalla-Herrera Manuel , Villalón-Mir Marina , Serrana Herminia López-García de la , Samaniego-Sánchez Cristina
Published: July 2019

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), water, and a water/oil mixture (W/O) were used for frying, boiling and sautéeing Mediterranean vegetables (potato, pumpkin, tomato and eggplant). Differences in antioxidant capacity (AC) (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric iron (FRAP), 2,2-azinobis-(3-ethylbensothiazoline)-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS)), total phenolic content (TPC) and individual phenols (high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)) in unused and used EVOO and water were determined. The water used to boil tomatoes showed the highest TPC value, whilst the lowest was found in the EVOO from the W/O used for boiling potatoes. After processing, the concentrations of phenols exclusive to EVOO diminished to different extents. There was a greater transfer of phenols from the vegetable to the oil when eggplant, tomato and pumpkin were cooked. W/O boiling enriched the water for most of the phenols analysed, such as chlorogenic acid and phenols exclusive to EVOO. The values of AC decreased or were maintained when fresh oil was used to cook the vegetables (raw > frying > sautéing > boiling). The water fraction was enriched in 6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8–tetramethyl-chroman-2-carboxylic acid (Trolox) equivalents following boiling, though to a greater extent when EVOO was added. Phenolic content and AC of EVOO decreased after cooking Mediterranean diet vegetables. Further, water was enriched after the boiling processes, particularly when oil was included.
Meso-Scale Simulation of Concrete Based on Fracture and Interaction Behavior
Authors: Xiong Xueyu , Xiao Qisheng
Published: July 2019

Based on the cohesive zone model, a meso-scale model is developed for numerical studies of three-phase concrete under tension and compression. The model is characterized by adopting mixed-mode fracture and interaction behavior to describe fracture, friction and collision in tension and compression processes. The simulation results match satisfactorily with the experimental results in both mechanical characteristics and failure mode. Whole deformation and crack propagation process analyses are conducted to reveal damage evolution of concrete. The analyses also set a foundation for the following parametric studies in which mode II fracture energy, material parameter, frictional angle and aggregates’ mechanical characteristics are considered as variables. It shows that the mixed-mode fracture accounts for a considerable proportion, even in tension failure. Under compression, the frictional stress can constrain crack propagation at the beginning of the damage and reestablish loading path during the softening stage. Aggregates’ mechanical characteristics mainly affect concrete’s performance in the mid-and-late softening stage.
Elevator Fault Detection Using Profile Extraction and Deep Autoencoder Feature Extraction for Acceleration and Magnetic Signals
Authors: Mishra Krishna Mohan , Huhtala Kalevi
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we propose a new algorithm for data extraction from time-series data, and furthermore automatic calculation of highly informative deep features to be used in fault detection. In data extraction, elevator start and stop events are extracted from sensor data including both acceleration and magnetic signals. In addition, a generic deep autoencoder model is also developed for automated feature extraction from the extracted profiles. After this, extracted deep features are classified with random forest algorithm for fault detection. Sensor data are labelled as healthy and faulty based on the maintenance actions recorded. The remaining healthy data are used for validation of the model to prove its efficacy in terms of avoiding false positives. We have achieved above 90% accuracy in fault detection along with avoiding false positives based on new extracted deep features, which outperforms results using existing features. Existing features are also classified with random forest to compare results. Our developed algorithm provides better results due to the new deep features extracted from the dataset when compared to existing features. This research will help various predictive maintenance systems to detect false alarms, which will in turn reduce unnecessary visits of service technicians to installation sites.
Application of OCT in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Samel Nicholas S. , Mashimo Hiroshi
Published: July 2019

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is uniquely poised for advanced imaging in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract as it allows real-time, subsurface and wide-field evaluation at near-microscopic resolution, which may improve the current limitations or even obviate the need of superficial random biopsies in the surveillance of early neoplasias in the near future. OCT’s greatest impact so far in the GI tract has been in the study of the tubular esophagus owing to its accessibility, less bends and folds and allowance of balloon employment with optimal contact to aid circumferential imaging. Moreover, given the alarming rise in the incidence of Barrett’s esophagus and its progression to adenocarcinoma in the U.S., OCT has helped identify pathological features that may guide future therapy and follow-up strategy. This review will explore the current uses of OCT in the gastrointestinal tract and future directions, particularly with non-endoscopic office-based capsule OCT and the use of artificial intelligence to aid in diagnoses.
A Comparison of Households’ Energy Balance in Residential Smart Grid Pilots in the Netherlands
Authors: Gercek Cihan , Schram Wouter , Lampropoulos Ioannis , van Sark Wilfried , Reinders Angèle
Published: July 2019

This paper presents an analysis that frames the impact of various smart grid technologies, with an objective to provide a transparent framework for residential smart grid demonstration projects based on predefined and clearly formulated key performance indicators. The analysis inspects measured energy data of 217 households from three smart grid pilot projects in the Netherlands and a public dataset with smart meter data from 70 households as a reference. The datasets were evaluated for one year and compared to provide insights on technologies and other differences based on seven key performance indicators, giving a comprehensive overview: monthly electricity consumption (100–600 kWh) and production (4–200 kWh); annually imported (3.1–4.5 MWh) and exported (0.2–1 MWh) electricity; residual load; peak of imported (4.8–6.8 kW) and exported (0.3–2.2 kW) electricity; import simultaneity (20–70.5%); feed in simultaneity (75–89%); self-sufficiency (18–20%); and self-consumption (50–70%). It was found that the electrification of heating systems in buildings by using heat pumps leads to an increase of annual electricity consumption and peak loads of approximately 30% compared to the average Dutch households without heat pumps. Moreover, these peaks have a high degree of simultaneity. To increase both the self-sufficiency and self-consumption of households, further investigations will be required to optimize smart grid systems.
Dual Aptamer-Functionalized 3D Plasmonic Metamolecule for Thrombin Sensing
Authors: Funck Timon , Liedl Tim , Bae Wooli
Published: July 2019

DNA nanotechnology offers the possibility to rationally design structures with emergent properties by precisely controlling their geometry and functionality. Here, we demonstrate a DNA-based plasmonic metamolecule that is capable of sensing human thrombin proteins. The chiral reconfigurability of a DNA origami structure carrying two gold nanorods was used to provide optical read-out of thrombin binding through changes in the displayed plasmonic circular dichroism. In our experiments, each arm of the structure was modified with one of two different thrombin-binding aptamers—thrombin-binding aptamer (TBA) and HD22—in such a way that a thrombin molecule could be sandwiched by the aptamers to lock the metamolecule in a state of defined chirality. Our structure exhibited a Kd of 1.4 nM, which was an order of magnitude lower than those of the individual aptamers. The increased sensitivity arose from the avidity gained by the cooperative binding of the two aptamers, which was also reflected by a Hill coefficient of 1.3 ± 0.3. As we further exploited the strong plasmonic circular dichroism (CD) signals of the metamolecule, our method allowed one-step, high sensitivity optical detection of human thrombin proteins in solution.
Detection of Tampering by Image Resizing Using Local Tchebichef Moments
Authors: Zhang Dengyong , Wang Shanshan , Wang Jin , Sangaiah Arun Kumar , Li Feng , Sheng Victor S.
Published: July 2019

There are many image resizing techniques, which include scaling, scale-and-stretch, seam carving, and so on. They have their own advantages and are suitable for different application scenarios. Therefore, a universal detection of tampering by image resizing is more practical. By preliminary experiments, we found that no matter which image resizing technique is adopted, it will destroy local texture and spatial correlations among adjacent pixels to some extent. Due to the excellent performance of local Tchebichef moments (LTM) in texture classification, we are motivated to present a detection method of tampering by image resizing using LTM in this paper. The tampered images are obtained by removing the pixels from original images using image resizing (scaling, scale-and-stretch and seam carving). Firstly, the residual is obtained by image pre-processing. Then, the histogram features of LTM are extracted from the residual. Finally, an error-correcting output code strategy is adopted by ensemble learning, which turns a multi-class classification problem into binary classification sub-problems. Experimental results show that the proposed approach can obtain an acceptable detection accuracies for the three content-aware image re-targeting techniques.
Semi-Empirical Capacity Fading Model for SoH Estimation of Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Singh Preetpal , Chen Che , Tan Cher Ming , Huang Shyh-Chin
Published: July 2019

A fast and accurate capacity estimation method for lithium-ion batteries is developed. This method applies our developed semi-empirical model to a discharge curve of a lithium-ion battery for the determination of its maximum stored charge capacity after each discharge cycle. This model provides an accurate state-of-health (SoH) estimation with a difference of less than 2.22% when compared with the electrochemistry-based electrical (ECBE) SoH calculation. The model parameters derived from a lithium-ion battery can also be applied to other cells in the same pack with less than 2.5% difference from the complex ECBE model, showing the extendibility of the model. The parameters (k1, k2, and k3) calculated in the work can also be used to study the changes in battery internal structure, such as capacity losses at normal conditions, as well as cycling at high temperatures. The time for estimation after each discharge cycle is only 5 s, making it is suitable for on-line in-situ estimation.
THz Superradiance from a GaAs: ErAs Quantum Dot Array at Room Temperature
Authors: Zhang Weidong , Brown Elliott R. , Mingardi Andrea , Mirin Richard P. , Jahed Navid , Saeedkia Daryoosh
Published: July 2019

We report that an ErAs quantum-dot array in a GaAs matrix under 1550 nm pulsed excitation produces cooperative spontaneous emission—Dicke superradiance—in the terahertz frequency region at room temperature. Two key points pertain to the experimental evidence: (i) the pulsed THz emission power is much greater than the continuous wave (CW) photomixing power; and (ii) the ultrafast time-domain waveform displays ringing cycles. A record of ~117 μW pulsed THz power was obtained, with a 1550 nm-to-THz power conversion efficiency of ~0.2%.
A XGBoost Model with Weather Similarity Analysis and Feature Engineering for Short-Term Wind Power Forecasting
Authors: Zheng Huan , Wu Yanghui
Published: July 2019

Large-scale wind power access may cause a series of safety and stability problems. Wind power forecasting (WPF) is beneficial to dispatch in advance. In this paper, a new extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) model with weather similarity analysis and feature engineering is proposed for short-term wind power forecasting. Based on the similarity among historical days’ weather, k-means clustering algorithm is used to divide the samples into several categories. Additionally, we also create some time features and drop unimportant features through feature engineering. For each category, we make predictions using XGBoost. The results of the proposed model are compared with the back propagation neural network (BPNN) and classification and regression tree (CART), random forests (RF), support vector regression (SVR), and a single XGBoost model. It is shown that the proposed model produces the highest forecasting accuracy among all these models.
Enhanced NOMA System Using Adaptive Coding and Modulation Based on LSTM Neural Network Channel Estimation
Authors: AbdelMoniem Mai , Gasser Safa M. , El-Mahallawy Mohamed S. , Fakhr Mohamed Waleed , Soliman Abdelhamid
Published: July 2019

Non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) is the technique proposed for multiple access in the fifth generation (5G) cellular network. In NOMA, different users are allocated different power levels and are served using the same time/frequency resource blocks (RBs). The main challenges in existing NOMA systems are the limited channel feedback and the difficulty of merging it with advanced adaptive coding and modulation schemes. Unlike formerly proposed solutions, in this paper, we propose an effective channel estimation (CE) algorithm based on the long-short term memory (LSTM) neural network. The LSTM has the advantage of adapting dynamically to the behavior of the fluctuating channel state. On average, the use of LSTM results in a 10% lower outage probability and a 37% increase in the user sum rate as well as a maximal reduction in the bit error rate (BER) of 50% in comparison to the conventional NOMA system. Furthermore, we propose a novel power coefficient allocation algorithm based on binomial distribution and Pascal’s triangle. This algorithm is used to divide power among N users according to each user’s channel condition. In addition, we introduce adaptive code rates and rotated constellations with cyclic Q-delay in the quadri-phase shift keying (QPSK) and quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) modulators. This modified modulation scheme overcomes channel fading effects and helps to restore the transmitted sequences with fewer errors. In addition to the initial LSTM stage, the added adaptive coding and modulation stages result in a 73% improvement in the BER in comparison to the conventional NOMA system.
Quantitative Analysis of Soil Displacement Induced by Ground Loss and Shield Machine Mechanical Effect in Metro Tunnel Construction
Authors: Zhu Yimo , Chen Liang , Zhang Heng , Tu Peng , Chen Shougen
Published: July 2019

In order to relieve the increasing ground traffic pressure in the process of urbanization in China, it is inevitable to build more metro lines. However, the stratum movement caused by tunneling affects the safety of adjacent underground structures and aboveground buildings. Therefore, how to evaluate and control the stratum movement is a prominent problem. In this paper, based on the engineering project of an interval tunnel between Shizishan Station and Chuanshi Station in Chengdu Metro Line 7, China, the action mechanism of stratum movement induced by shield tunneling is analyzed, and the effect factors are divided into two categories: ground loss factors and mechanical factors. Combining the advantages of Loganathan method and mirror source-sink method, a new solution of three-dimensional displacement induced by ground loss is proposed. Based on the elastic half-space Mindlin model, the displacement at any point induced by four mechanical effect factors is deduced. Finally, the total displacement is verified by field monitoring data and quantitative analyzed in various parts.
Combined Effects of Acute Temperature Change and Elevated pCO2 on the Metabolic Rates and Hypoxia Tolerances of Clearnose Skate (Rostaraja eglanteria), Summer Flounder (Paralichthys dentatus), and Thorny Skate (Amblyraja radiata)
Authors: Schwieterman Gail , Crear Daniel , Anderson Brooke , Lavoie Danielle , Sulikowski James , Bushnell Peter , Brill Richard
Published: July 2019

Understanding how rising temperatures, ocean acidification, and hypoxia affect the performance of coastal fishes is essential to predicting species-specific responses to climate change. Although a population’s habitat influences physiological performance, little work has explicitly examined the multi-stressor responses of species from habitats differing in natural variability. Here, clearnose skate (Rostaraja eglanteria) and summer flounder (Paralichthys dentatus) from mid-Atlantic estuaries, and thorny skate (Amblyraja radiata) from the Gulf of Maine, were acutely exposed to current and projected temperatures (20, 24, or 28 °C; 22 or 30 °C; and 9, 13, or 15 °C, respectively) and acidification conditions (pH 7.8 or 7.4). We tested metabolic rates and hypoxia tolerance using intermittent-flow respirometry. All three species exhibited increases in standard metabolic rate under an 8 °C temperature increase (Q10 of 1.71, 1.07, and 2.56, respectively), although this was most pronounced in the thorny skate. At the lowest test temperature and under the low pH treatment, all three species exhibited significant increases in standard metabolic rate (44–105%; p < 0.05) and decreases in hypoxia tolerance (60–84% increases in critical oxygen pressure; p < 0.05). This study demonstrates the interactive effects of increasing temperature and changing ocean carbonate chemistry are species-specific, the implications of which should be considered within the context of habitat.
Embryonic Exposure to Bisphenol A Impairs Primordial Germ Cell Migration without Jeopardizing Male Breeding Capacity
Authors: Lombó Marta , Getino-Álvarez Lidia , Depincé Alexandra , Labbé Catherine , Herráez María
Published: July 2019

A large amount of chemicals are released to the environment each year. Among them, bisphenol A (BPA) is of utmost concern since it interferes with the reproductive system of wild organisms due to its capacity to bind to hormone receptors. Additionally, BPA epigenotoxic activity is known to affect basic processes during embryonic life. However, its effects on primordial germ cells (PGCs) proliferation and migration, both mechanisms being crucial for gametogenesis, remain unknown. To investigate the effects of BPA on PGCs migration and eventual testicle development, zebrafish embryos were exposed to 100, 2000 and 4000 µg/L BPA during the first 24 h of development. Vasa immunostaining of PGCs revealed that exposure to 2000 and 4000 µg/L BPA impaired their migration to the genital ridge. Two pivotal genes of PGCs migration (cxcr4b and sdf1a) were highly dysregulated in embryos exposed to these doses, whereas DNA methylation and epigenetic marks in PGCs and their surrounding somatic cells were not altered. Once embryos reached adulthood, the morphometric study of their gonads revealed that, despite the reduced number of PGCs which colonized the genital ridges, normal testicles were developed. Although H3K9ac decreased in the sperm from treated fishes, it did not affect the progeny development.
Folding of the Ig-Like Domain of the Dengue Virus Envelope Protein Analyzed by High-Hydrostatic-Pressure NMR at a Residue-Level Resolution
Authors: Saotome Tomonori , Doret Maxime , Kulkarni Manjiri , Yang Yin-Shan , Barthe Philippe , Kuroda Yutaka , Roumestand Christian
Published: July 2019

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne endemic disease in tropical and subtropical regions, causing a significant public health problem in Southeast Asia. Domain III (ED3) of the viral envelope protein contains the two dominant putative epitopes and part of the heparin sulfate receptor binding region that drives the dengue virus (DENV)’s fusion with the host cell. Here, we used high-hydrostatic-pressure nuclear magnetic resonance (HHP-NMR) to obtain residue-specific information on the folding process of domain III from serotype 4 dengue virus (DEN4-ED3), which adopts the classical three-dimensional (3D) ß-sandwich structure known as the Ig-like fold. Interestingly, the folding pathway of DEN4-ED3 shares similarities with that of the Titin I27 module, which also adopts an Ig-like fold, but is functionally unrelated to ED3. For both proteins, the unfolding process starts by the disruption of the N- and C-terminal strands on one edge of the ß-sandwich, yielding a folding intermediate stable over a substantial pressure range (from 600 to 1000 bar). In contrast to this similarity, pressure-jump kinetics indicated that the folding transition state is considerably more hydrated in DEN4-ED3 than in Titin I27.
A Mini-Review: Clinical Development and Potential of Aptamers for Thrombotic Events Treatment and Monitoring
Authors: Ponce Alex T. , Hong Ka Lok
Published: July 2019

The unique opportunity for aptamer uses in thrombotic events has sparked a considerable amount of research in the area. The short half-lives of unmodified aptamers in vivo remain one of the major challenges in therapeutic aptamers. Much of the incremental successful therapeutic aptamer stories were due to modifications in the aptamer bases. This mini-review briefly summarizes the successes and challenges in the clinical development of aptamers for thrombotic events, and highlights some of the most recent developments in using aptamers for anticoagulation monitoring.
Towards a Dynamic Model of the Kangaroo Knee for Clinical Insights into Human Knee Pathology and Treatment: Establishing a Static Biomechanical Profile
Authors: Fatima Manaal , Scholes Corey J. , Zhong Emily , Kohan Lawrence
Published: July 2019

There is limited understanding of how patella realignment or patellectomy to surgically manage patellofemoral pain (PFP) affects knee biomechanics. By analysing marsupials like kangaroos that lack an ossified patella, actionable biomimetic insight for the management of end-stage PFP could be gained. This study aimed to provide the foundation of a multi-stage approach, by establishing a static biomechanical profile of the kangaroo stifle that informs the inputs and factors requiring consideration for future dynamic analyses. Volumetric CT and MRI sequences were obtained for four hindlimbs from two Macropus giganteus specimens, from which three-dimensional models of the stifles were created. Two limbs were dissected to visualise the insertion points, origins and lines of action of the quadriceps muscles and the knee extensor mechanism. Static measurements were obtained from the three-dimensional models to establish the biomechanical profile. The results confirmed structural differences in the kangaroo stifle with lack of an ossified patella, a prominent tuberosity and a shorter femur, which functionally affect the mechanical advantage and the torque-generating capability of the joint. The data reported in this study can be used to inform the inputs and constraints of future comparative analyses from which important lessons can be learned for the human knee.
Using Dual-Site Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Probe Connectivity between the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex and Ipsilateral Primary Motor Cortex in Humans
Authors: Brown Matt J.N. , Goldenkoff Elana R. , Chen Robert , Gunraj Carolyn , Vesia Michael
Published: July 2019

Dual-site transcranial magnetic stimulation to the primary motor cortex (M1) and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) can be used to probe functional connectivity between these regions. The purpose of this study was to characterize the effect of DLPFC stimulation on ipsilateral M1 excitability while participants were at rest and contracting the left- and right-hand first dorsal interosseous muscle. Twelve participants were tested in two separate sessions at varying inter-stimulus intervals (ISI: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 15, and 20 ms) at two different conditioning stimulus intensities (80% and 120% of resting motor threshold). No significant effect on ipsilateral M1 excitability was found when applying a conditioning stimulus over DLPFC at any specific inter-stimulus interval or intensity in either the left or right hemisphere. Our findings suggest neither causal inhibitory nor faciliatory influences of DLPFC on ipsilateral M1 activity while participants were at rest or when performing an isometric contraction in the target hand muscle.
Contributing Project Characteristics and Realized Benefits of Successful BIM Implementation: A Comparison of Complex and Simple Buildings
Authors: Olbina Svetlana , Elliott Jonathan W.
Published: July 2019

Researchers have explored Building Information Modeling (BIM) utilization on complex buildings. However, limited research has been conducted investigating BIM implementation on simple projects. This study explored the perceptions of Architects, General Contractors and Owners regarding the project characteristics that impact successful BIM implementation, and the realized benefits thereof, on complex commercial buildings versus parking garages. A survey comprised of the project characteristics and realized benefits of BIM implementation identified by Dodge Data & Analytics was distributed. Exploratory Factor Analysis was conducted to identify the empirical groupings of successful BIM implementation characteristics and realized benefits thereof. Factor means were calculated and compared using ANOVA and t-tests. Statistical comparisons revealed no significant differences by building type. For project stakeholders, a significant difference was only observed on owner’s mean perceptions of technology-related characteristics when compared to architects. Previous research indicates that Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) stakeholders believe BIM is beneficial for large and complex projects. With the exception of technology-related project characteristics, findings reveal no statistical differences for project characteristics impacting successful BIM utilization or the realized benefits of BIM implementation given building type. This finding provides empirical evidence that various stakeholder groups view BIM as a universal AEC process that provides benefits on both complex and simple projects.
A Preliminary Investigation towards the Risk Stratification of Allogeneic Stem Cell Recipients with Respect to the Potential for Development of GVHD via Their Pre-Transplant Plasma Lipid and Metabolic Signature
Authors: Contaifer Daniel , Roberts Catherine H. , Kumar Naren Gajenthra , Natarajan Ramesh , Fisher Bernard J. , Leslie Kevin , Reed Jason , Toor Amir A. , Wijesinghe Dayanjan S.
Published: July 2019

The clinical outcome of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) may be influenced by the metabolic status of the recipient following conditioning, which in turn may enable risk stratification with respect to the development of transplant-associated complications such as graft vs. host disease (GVHD). To better understand the impact of the metabolic profile of transplant recipients on post-transplant alloreactivity, we investigated the metabolic signature of 14 patients undergoing myeloablative conditioning followed by either human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-matched related or unrelated donor SCT, or autologous SCT. Blood samples were taken following conditioning and prior to transplant on day 0 and the plasma was comprehensively characterized with respect to its lipidome and metabolome via liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LCMS) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GCMS). A pro-inflammatory metabolic profile was observed in patients who eventually developed GVHD. Five potential pre-transplant biomarkers, 2-aminobutyric acid, 1-monopalmitin, diacylglycerols (DG 38:5, DG 38:6), and fatty acid FA 20:1 demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity towards predicting post-transplant GVHD. The resulting predictive model demonstrated an estimated predictive accuracy of risk stratification of 100%, with area under the curve of the ROC of 0.995. The likelihood ratio of 1-monopalmitin (infinity), DG 38:5 (6.0), and DG 38:6 (6.0) also demonstrated that a patient with a positive test result for these biomarkers following conditioning and prior to transplant will be at risk of developing GVHD. Collectively, the data suggest the possibility that pre-transplant metabolic signature may be used for risk stratification of SCT recipients with respect to development of alloreactivity.
Omics Approaches in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: González-Borja Iranzu , Viúdez Antonio , Goñi Saioa , Santamaria Enrique , Carrasco-García Estefania , Pérez-Sanz Jairo , Hernández-García Irene , Sala-Elarre Pablo , Arrazubi Virginia , Oyaga-Iriarte Esther , Zárate Ruth , Arévalo Sara , Sayar Onintza , Vera Ruth , Fernández-Irigoyen Joaquin
Published: July 2019

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, which represents 80% of pancreatic cancers, is mainly diagnosed when treatment with curative intent is not possible. Consequently, the overall five-year survival rate is extremely dismal—around 5% to 7%. In addition, pancreatic cancer is expected to become the second leading cause of cancer-related death by 2030. Therefore, advances in screening, prevention and treatment are urgently needed. Fortunately, a wide range of approaches could help shed light in this area. Beyond the use of cytological or histological samples focusing in diagnosis, a plethora of new approaches are currently being used for a deeper characterization of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, including genetic, epigenetic, and/or proteo-transcriptomic techniques. Accordingly, the development of new analytical technologies using body fluids (blood, bile, urine, etc.) to analyze tumor derived molecules has become a priority in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma due to the hard accessibility to tumor samples. These types of technologies will lead us to improve the outcome of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients.
Pivotal Role of AKT2 during Dynamic Phenotypic Change of Breast Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Gener Petra , Rafael Diana , Seras-Franzoso Joaquin , Perez Anna , Alamo Pindado Luis , Casas Glòria , Arango Diego , Fernández Yolanda , Díaz-Riascos Zamira V. , Abasolo Ibane , Schwartz Simó
Published: July 2019

Therapeutic resistance seen in aggressive forms of breast cancer remains challenging for current treatments. More than half of the patients suffer from a disease relapse, most of them with distant metastases. Cancer maintenance, resistance to therapy, and metastatic disease seem to be sustained by the presence of cancer stem cells (CSC) within a tumor. The difficulty in targeting this subpopulation derives from their dynamic interconversion process, where CSC can differentiate to non-CSC, which in turn de-differentiate into cells with CSC properties. Using fluorescent CSC models driven by the expression of ALDH1A 1(aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A1), we confirmed this dynamic phenotypic change in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and to identify Serine/Threonine Kinase 2 (AKT2) as an important player in the process. To confirm the central role of AKT2, we silenced AKT2 expression via small interfering RNA and using a chemical inhibitor (CCT128930), in both CSC and non-CSC from different cancer cell lines. Our results revealed that AKT2 inhibition effectively prevents non-CSC reversion through mesenchymal to epithelial transition, reducing invasion and colony formation ability of both, non-CSC and CSC. Further, AKT2 inhibition reduced CSC survival in low attachment conditions. Interestingly, in orthotopic tumor mouse models, high expression levels of AKT2 were detected in circulating tumor cells (CTC). These findings suggest AKT2 as a promising target for future anti-cancer therapies at three important levels: (i) Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) reversion and maintenance of CSC subpopulation in primary tumors, (ii) reduction of CTC and the likelihood of metastatic spread, and (iii) prevention of tumor recurrence through inhibition of CSC tumorigenic and metastatic potential.
Prognostic Value of miRNAs in Head and Neck Cancers: A Comprehensive Systematic and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kumarasamy Chellan , Madhav Madurantakam Royam , Sabarimurugan Shanthi , Krishnan Sunil , Baxi Siddhartha , Gupta Ajay , Gothandam K M , Jayaraj Rama
Published: July 2019

Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) is the sixth most common type of cancer across the globe, with more than 300,000 deaths each year, globally. However, there are currently no standardised molecular markers that assist in determining HNC prognosis. The literature for this systematic review and meta-analysis were sourced from multiple bibliographic databases. This review followed PRISMA guidelines. The Hazard Ratio (HR) was selected as the effect size metric to independently assess overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and prognosis. Subgroup analysis was performed for individual highly represented miRNA. A total of 6843 patients across 50 studies were included in the systematic review and 34 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Studies across 12 countries were assessed, with China representing 36.7% of all included studies. The analysis of the survival endpoints of OS and DFS were conducted separately, with the overall pooled effect size (HR) for each being 1.825 (95% CI 1.527–2.181; p < 0.05) and 2.596 (95% CI 1.917–3.515; p < 0.05), respectively. Subgroup analysis was conducted for impact of miR-21, 200b, 155, 18a, 34c-5p, 125b, 20a and 375 on OS, and miR-21 and 34a on DFS. The pooled results were found to be statistically significant for both OS and DFS. The meta-analysis indicated that miRNA alterations can account for an 82.5% decrease in OS probability and a 159.6% decrease in DFS probability. These results indicate that miRNAs have potential clinical value as prognostic biomarkers in HNC, with miR-21, 125b, 34c-5p and 18a, in particular, showing great potential as prognostic molecular markers. Further large scale cohort studies focusing on these miRNAs are recommended to verify the clinical utility of these markers individually and/or in combination.