bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus percutaneous catheter drainage for acute cholecystitis in high risk patients (CHOCOLATE): multicentre randomised clinical trial
Authors: Loozen Charlotte S , van Santvoort Hjalmar C , van Duijvendijk Peter , Besselink Marc GH , Gouma Dirk J , Nieuwenhuijzen Grard AP , Kelder Johannes C , Donkervoort Sandra C , van Geloven Anna AW , Kruyt Philip M , Roos Daphne , Kortram Kirsten , Kornmann Verena NN , Pronk Apollo , van der Peet Donald L , Crolla Rogier MPH , van Ramshorst Bert , Bollen Thomas L , Boerma Djamila
Published: October 2018

Objective

To assess whether laparoscopic cholecystectomy is superior to percutaneous catheter drainage in high risk patients with acute calculous cholecystitis.

Design

Multicentre, randomised controlled, superiority trial.

Setting

11 hospitals in the Netherlands, February 2011 to January 2016.

Participants

142 high risk patients with acute calculous cholecystitis were randomly allocated to laparoscopic cholecystectomy (n=66) or to percutaneous catheter drainage (n=68). High risk was defined as an acute physiological assessment and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) score of 7 or more.

Main outcome measures

The primary endpoints were death within one year and the occurrence of major complications, defined as infectious and cardiopulmonary complications within one month, need for reintervention (surgical, radiological, or endoscopic that had to be related to acute cholecystitis) within one year, or recurrent biliary disease within one year.

Results

The trial was concluded early after a planned interim analysis. The rate of death did not differ between the laparoscopic cholecystectomy and percutaneous catheter drainage group (3% v 9%, P=0.27), but major complications occurred in eight of 66 patients (12%) assigned to cholecystectomy and in 44 of 68 patients (65%) assigned to percutaneous drainage (risk ratio 0.19, 95% confidence interval 0.10 to 0.37; P<0.001). In the drainage group 45 patients (66%) required a reintervention compared with eight patients (12%) in the cholecystectomy group (P<0.001). Recurrent biliary disease occurred more often in the percutaneous drainage group (53% v 5%, P<0.001), and the median length of hospital stay was longer (9 days v 5 days, P<0.001).

Conclusion

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy compared with percutaneous catheter drainage reduced the rate of major complications in high risk patients with acute cholecystitis.

Trial registration

Dutch Trial Register NTR2666.
Tight junction proteins in gastrointestinal and liver disease
Authors: Zeisel Mirjam B , Dhawan Punita , Baumert Thomas F
Published: October 2018

Over the past two decades a growing body of evidence has demonstrated an important role of tight junction (TJ) proteins in the physiology and disease biology of GI and liver disease. On one side, TJ proteins exert their functional role as integral proteins of TJs in forming barriers in the gut and the liver. Furthermore, TJ proteins can also be expressed outside TJs where they play important functional roles in signalling, trafficking and regulation of gene expression. A hallmark of TJ proteins in disease biology is their functional role in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. A causative role of TJ proteins has been established in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer and gastric cancer. Among the best characterised roles of TJ proteins in liver disease biology is their function as cell entry receptors for HCV—one of the most common causes of hepatocellular carcinoma. At the same time TJ proteins are emerging as targets for novel therapeutic approaches for GI and liver disease. Here we review our current knowledge of the role of TJ proteins in the pathogenesis of GI and liver disease biology and discuss their potential as therapeutic targets.
Atypical CIDP: diagnostic criteria, progression and treatment response. Data from the Italian CIDP Database
Authors: Doneddu Pietro Emiliano , Cocito Dario , Manganelli Fiore , Fazio Raffaella , Briani Chiara , Filosto Massimiliano , Benedetti Luana , Mazzeo Anna , Marfia Girolama Alessandra , Cortese Andrea , Fierro Brigida , Jann Stefano , Beghi Ettore , Clerici Angelo Maurizio , Carpo Marinella , Schenone Angelo , Luigetti Marco , Lauria Giuseppe , Antonini Giovanni , Rosso Tiziana , Siciliano Gabriele , Cavaletti Guido , Liberatore Giuseppe , Santoro Lucio , Peci Erdita , Tronci Stefano , Ruiz Marta , Cotti Piccinelli Stefano , Toscano Antonio , Mataluni Giorgia , Piccolo Laura , Cosentino Giuseppe , Sabatelli Mario , Nobile-Orazio Eduardo
Published: October 2018

Objectives

A few variants of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) have been described, but their frequency and evolution to typical CIDP remain unclear. To determine the frequency and characteristics of the CIDP variants, their possible evolution to typical CIDP, and treatment response.

Methods

We applied a set of diagnostic criteria to 460 patients included in a database of Italian patients with CIDP. Clinical characteristics and treatment response were reviewed for each patient. The Kaplan-Meier curve was used to estimate the progression rate from atypical to typical CIDP.

Results

At the time of inclusion, 376 (82%) patients had a diagnosis of typical CIDP while 84 (18%) had atypical CIDP, including 34 (7%) with distal acquired demyelinating symmetric neuropathy (DADS), 17 (4%) with purely motor, 17 (4%) with Lewis-Sumner syndrome (LSS) and 16 (3.5%) with purely sensory CIDP. Based on retrospective review of the symptoms and signs present at onset and for at least 1 year, 180 (39%) patients had an initial diagnosis compatible with atypical CIDP that in 96 (53%) patients evolved to typical CIDP. Mean disease duration was longer in patients evolving to typical CIDP than in those not evolving (p=0.0016). Patients with DADS and LSS had a less frequent response to immunoglobulin than those with typical CIDP, while patients with purely motor and sensory CIDP had a similar treatment response.

Conclusions

The proportion of patients with atypical CIDP varies during the disease course. DADS and LSS have a less frequent response to intravenous immunoglobulin compared with typical CIDP, raising the possibility of a different underlying pathogenetic mechanism.
Elevated YKL-40 and low sAPPβ:YKL-40 ratio in antemortem cerebrospinal fluid of patients with pathologically confirmed FTLD
Authors: Alcolea Daniel , Irwin David J , Illán-Gala Ignacio , Muñoz Laia , Clarimón Jordi , McMillan Corey T , Fortea Juan , Blesa Rafael , Lee Edward B , Trojanowski John Q , Grossman Murray , Lleó Alberto
Published: October 2018

Objectives

The combination of high YKL-40 (a glial inflammatory marker) and low sAPPβ (a soluble β fragment of amyloid precursor protein) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has been associated with frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) in clinical series. We investigate these biomarkers in a neuropathologically confirmed cohort of patients with FTLD.

Methods

CSF samples were selected from the Penn FTD Center (University of Pennsylvania). Participants were followed to autopsy and had a neuropathological diagnosis of FTLD-Tau (n=24), transactive response DNA-binding protein with 43 kDa (FTLD-TDP) (n=25) or Alzheimer’s disease (AD, n=97). We compared levels of YKL-40 and sAPPβ between groups and with cognitively normal controls (n=77), and assessed their diagnostic utility using receiver operating characteristic curves. We also investigated the effect of AD copathology and the correlation between these CSF markers and tau burden at autopsy.

Results

Both FTLD groups had lower levels of sAPPβ, higher levels of YKL-40 and lower sAPPβ:YKL-40 ratio in CSF compared with controls. The group of pure FTLD-Tau (without AD copathology) showed higher levels of YKL-40 than AD and than pure FTLD-TDP. YKL-40 levels correlated with pathological tau burden. The sAPPβ:YKL-40 ratio had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.91 (95% CI 0.86 to 0.96) to distinguish subjects with FTLD from controls, but lower values to distinguish FTLD from AD (AUC 0.70; 95%  CI 0.61 to 0.79) and to discriminate FTLD-Tau from FTLD-TDP (AUC 0.67; 95%  CI 0.51 to 0.82).

Conclusions

Our study provides pathological confirmation that the combination of low sAPPβ and high YKL-40 in CSF is associated with FTLD. These biomarkers could be useful in particular clinical settings when FTLD is suspected.
Hemorrhagic transformation is associated with poor functional outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke due to a large vessel occlusion
Authors: van Kranendonk Katinka R , Treurniet Kilian M , Boers Anna M M , Berkhemer Olvert A , van den Berg Lucie A , Chalos Vicky , Lingsma Hester F , van Zwam Wim H , van der Lugt Aad , van Oostenbrugge Robert J , Dippel Diederik W J , Roos Yvo B W E M , Marquering Henk A , Majoie Charles B L M
Published: October 2018

Background and purpose

Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) is a complication that may cause neurological deterioration in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Various radiological subtypes of HT can be distinguished. Their influence on functional outcome is currently unclear. The purpose of this study was to assess the associations between HT subtypes and functional outcome in acute ischemic stroke patients with proven large vessel occlusion included in the MR CLEAN trial (Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial of Endovascular Treatment for Acute Ischemic stroke in The Netherlands).

Methods

All patients with follow-up imaging were included. HT was classified on follow-up CT scans according to the European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study II classification. Functional outcome was assessed using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 90 days after stroke onset. Ordinal logistic regression analysis with adjustment for potential confounders was used to determine the association of HT subtypes with functional outcome.

Results

Of 478 patients, 222 had HT. Of these, 76 (16%) patients were classified as hemorrhagic infarction type 1, 71 (15%) as hemorrhagic infarction type 2, 36 (8%) as parenchymal hematoma type 1, and 39 (8%) as parenchymal hematoma type 2. Hemorrhagic infarction type 2 (adjusted common OR (acOR) 0.54, 95% CI: 0.32 to 0.89) and parenchymal hematoma type 2 (acOR 0.37, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.78) were significantly associated with a worse functional outcome. Hemorrhagic infarction type 1 and parenchymal hematoma type 1 were not significantly associated, although their point estimates pointed in the direction of worse outcome.

Conclusion

This study suggests that parenchymal hematoma type 2 is relevant for functional outcome after an acute ischemic stroke, and smaller HTs might also influence long term functional outcome.

Trail registration number

ISRCTN10888758.
Mothership versus drip and ship for thrombectomy in patients who had an acute stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ismail Mohammad , Armoiry Xavier , Tau Noam , Zhu François , Sadeh-Gonik Udi , Piotin Michel , Blanc Raphael , Mazighi Mikaël , Bracard Serge , Anxionnat René , Schmitt Emmanuelle , Mione Gioia , Humbertjean Lisa , Lacour Jean-Christophe , Richard Sébastien , Barbier Charlotte , Lapergue Bertrand , Gory Benjamin
Published: October 2018

Background

The effectiveness of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion is time-dependent. While only stroke centers with endovascular capabilities perform MT, many patients who had a stroke initially present to the closest primary stroke centers capable of administering earlier intravenous thrombolysis, and then require to be transferred to a comprehensive stroke center for MT.

Purpose

To compare the outcomes of this care pathway (drip and ship (DS)) with that whereby patients are directly transferred to a comprehensive stroke center (mothership (MS)).

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies using several electronic databases to determine whether successful reperfusion (modified Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction ≥2b), functional independence at 90 days (modified Rankin Scale score ≤2), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, and 90-day mortality differed between those who underwent MT with the DS or the MS treatment pathway. Outcomes were meta-analyzed and the results expressed as adjusted relative risk (aRR) for the primary analysis and unadjusted relative risk (uRR) for secondary analysis.

Results

Eight studies including 2068 patients were selected, including one study reporting results fully adjusted for baseline characteristics. Patients undergoing MS had better functional independence than those undergoing DS (uRR=0.87, 95% CI 0.81 to 0.93; aRR=0.87, 95% CI 0.77 to 0.98). No difference was found between the treatment pathways in successful reperfusion (uRR=1.05, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.15; aRR=1.00, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.10), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (uRR=1.37, 95% CI 0.91 to 2.06; aRR, 1.53, 95% CI 0.79 to 2.98), and 90-day mortality (uRR=1.00, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.19; aRR=1.21, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.64).

Conclusions

Patients who had an acute ischemic stroke admitted directly to a comprehensive stroke center (MS patients) with endovascular capacities may have better 90-day outcomes than those receiving DS treatment. However, major limitations of current evidence (ie, retrospective studies and selection bias) suggest a need for adequately powered studies. Multicenter randomized controlled trials are expected to answer this question.
Relationship between procedural characteristics and cerebrovascular events after transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Goel Kashish , Nkomo Vuyisile T , Slusser Joshua P , Lennon Ryan , Brown Robert D , Greason Kevin L , Holmes Jr David R
Published: October 2018

Objectives

The objective was to assess the impact of procedural characteristics on risk of stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Methods

We included 370 consecutive patients who underwent balloon-expandable TAVR from 1 November 2008 to 30 June 2014. Procedural characteristics that may be associated with stroke/TIA were assessed. The primary outcome was stroke/TIA at 30 days. A propensity score was constructed using a logistic regression model with 29 parameters. Cox proportional hazards models were used with a propensity score covariate.

Results

Mean age was 80.9±7.9 years and mean Society of Thoracic Surgeons score was 8.3±5.0. The total number of balloon dilations ranged from 2 to 7. Out of 370 patients, 13 patients (3.5%) suffered stroke/TIA in the first 30 days after TAVR. In univariate analysis, postdeployment balloon dilation (PD) (HR 3.8, 95% CI 1.24 to 11.61; p=0.02) and emergent cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) (HR 9.66, 95% CI 2.66 to 35.15; p<0.001) were significantly associated with 30-day stroke/TIA. In the multivariable Cox-proportional hazards model, PD (HR 4.95, 95% CI 1.02 to 24.03; p=0.04) and emergent CPB (HR 7.15, 95% CI 1.39 to 36.89; p=0.02) were independently associated with increased risk of 30-day stroke/TIA after adjusting for propensity score, total number of balloon dilations and periprosthetic regurgitation.

Conclusion

Postdilation as compared with total number of dilations, and emergent CPB were independently associated with increased risk of clinical neurological events in the first 30 days after TAVR. Reduction in balloon postdilation with appropriate valve sizing may reduce the risk of stroke or TIA after TAVR.
Web-based cardiacREhabilitatioNalternative for those declining or dropping out of conventional rehabilitation: results of the WREN feasibility randomised controlled trial
Authors: Houchen-Wolloff Linzy , Gardiner Nikki , Devi Reena , Robertson Noelle , Jolly Kate , Marshall Tom , Furze Gill , Doherty Patrick , Szczepura Ala , Powell John , Singh Sally
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is typically delivered in hospital-based classes and is recommended to help people reduce their risk of further cardiac events. However, many eligible people are not completing the programme. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of delivering a web-based CR intervention for those who decline/drop out from usual CR.

Intervention

A web-based CR programme for 6 months, facilitated with remote support.

Methods

Two-centre, randomised controlled feasibility trial. Patients were randomly allocated to web-based CR/usual care for 6 months. Data were collected to inform the design of a larger study: recruitment rates, quality of life (MacNew), exercise capacity (incremental shuttle walk test) and mood (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). Feasibility of health utility collection was also evaluated.

Results

60 patients were randomised (90% male, mean age 62±9 years, 26% of those eligible). 82% completed all three assessment visits. 78% of the web group completed the programme. Quality of life improved in the web group by a clinically meaningful amount (0.5±1.1 units vs 0.2±0.7 units: control). Exercise capacity improved in both groups but mood did not change in either group. It was feasible to collect health utility data.

Conclusions

It was feasible to recruit and retention to the end of the study was good. The web group reported important improvements in quality of life. This intervention has the opportunity to increase access to CR for patients who would otherwise not attend. Promising outcomes and recruitment suggest feasibility for a full-scale trial.

Trial registration number

10726798.
Multidimensional minimal clinically important differences in knee osteoarthritis after comprehensive rehabilitation: a prospective evaluation from the Bad Zurzach Osteoarthritis Study
Authors: Angst Felix , Benz Thomas , Lehmann Susanne , Aeschlimann André , Angst Jules
Published: October 2018

Objective

To determine minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) for improvement and worsening in various health dimensions in knee osteoarthritis under conservative therapy.

Methods

Health, symptoms and function were assessed by the generic Short Form 36 and the condition-specific Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index in n=190 patients with knee osteoarthritis before and after comprehensive rehabilitation intervention (3-month follow-up). By means of construct-specific transition questions, MCIDs were defined as the difference between the ‘slightly better/worse’ and the ‘almost equal’ transition response categories according to the ‘mean change method’. The bivariate MCIDs were adjusted for sex, age and baseline score to obtain adjusted MCIDs by multivariate linear regression. They were further standardised as (baseline) effect sizes (ESs), standardised response means (SRMs) and standardised mean differences (SMDs) and compared with the minimal detectable change with 95% confidence (MDC95).

Results

Multivariate, adjusted MCIDs for improvement ranged from 2.89 to 16.24 score points (scale 0–100), corresponding to ES=0.14 to 0.63, SRM=0.17 to 0.61 and SMD=0.18 to 0.72. The matching results for worsening were –5.80 to –12.68 score points, ES=–0.30 to –0.56, SRM=–0.35 to –0.52 and SMD=–0.35 to –0.58. Almost all MCIDs were larger than the corresponding MDC95s.

Conclusions

This study presents MCIDs quantified according to different methods over a comprehensive range of health dimensions. In most health dimensions, multivariate adjustment led to higher symmetry between the MCID levels of improvement and worsening. MCIDs expressed as standardised effect sizes (ES, SRM, SMD) and adjusted by potential confounders facilitate generalisation to the results of other studies.
Neutropaenia in early rheumatoid arthritis: frequency, predicting factors, natural history and outcome
Authors: Fragoulis George E , Paterson Caron , Gilmour Ashley , Derakhshan Mohammad H , McInnes Iain B , Porter Duncan , Siebert Stefan
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To determine the frequency, severity and natural history of neutropaenia in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA), explore its associations with clinical features and assess its impact on clinical management.

Methods

The Scottish Early Rheumatoid Arthritis inception cohort prospectively recruited patients with newly diagnosed RA and followed them up every 6 months. Patients with RA who developed at least one episode of neutropaenia (grade 1: <2.0×10^9/L; grade 2: <1.5×10^9/L; grade 3: <1.0×10^9/L; grade 4: <0.5×10^9/L) were compared with those who did not. Comparisons were also made between patients who experienced one or more episodes of neutropaenia and between patients with different neutropaenia grades.

Results

77 neutropaenia episodes were recorded in 58 of 771 (7.5%) patients with RA, who were followed up for a median (range) of 18 (6–48) months. Neutropaenia occurred at a median (range) of 12 (0–120) months after RA diagnosis. The majority had mild neutropaenia (grade 1: n=42; grade 2: n=14; grade 3: n=1; grade 4: n=1). Neutropaenia was transient (single episode) in the majority (44; 75.8%) of cases but led to treatment discontinuation in 14 (24.1%) patients. Patients who developed neutropaenia were more likely to be female (p=0.01) and non-smokers (p=0.007) and had lower baseline neutrophil levels (p<0.0001). Binomial regression analysis confirmed the latter (p<0.0001, B: −0.491) as neutropaenia predictor. The rate of infections did not differ between patients who developed neutropaenia and those who did not (p=0.878).

Conclusion

Neutropaenia was a common finding in this cohort. It was usually mild, transient and not associated with increased infection rates. Neutropaenia occurrence was associated with non-smoking, female gender and lower baseline neutrophil levels.
Tobacco taxation, illegal cigarette supply and geography: findings from the ITC Uruguay Surveys
Authors: Curti Dardo , Shang Ce , Chaloupka Frank J , Fong Geoffrey T
Published: October 2018

Background

In Uruguay, real tobacco taxes increased significantly during 2005–2010 and 2014–2017 and decreased during 2010–2014. The effects of these tax changes on illegal and legal cigarette usage differed significantly when we compared cities in the middle and south of the country with cities on the border.

Objective

This paper analyses whether supply side factors such as geographical location, distribution networks and the effectiveness of tobacco control play a significant role in sales and use of illegal cigarettes when tobacco taxes change, particularly given the price gap between legal and lower-priced illegal cigarettes.

Methods

Using the International Tobacco Control Evaluation Project Uruguay Survey data (2008, 2010, 2012 and 2014), choices among illegal, legal and roll-your-own cigarettes are estimated as a function of smokers’ geographical location, an indicator of illegal cigarette supply, and controlling for socioeconomic and demographic variables. Smoking behaviours in Montevideo, Durazno and Maldonado were compared with those in two border cities, Salto and Rivera, where illegal cigarette prevalence may differ.

Findings

An increase in taxes on manufactured legal and roll-your-own cigarettes increased the odds that smokers in cities near the borders and women switched down to illegal cigarettes. City geographical location, controls effectiveness and distribution networks may play a significant role in accessibility of illegal cigarettes. To improve the effectiveness of increased taxes and prices in reducing smoking, policy-makers may consider specific policies intended to reduce access to illegal cigarettes, such as ratification and effective implementation of the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products of WHO.
Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) reliability and validity study: selected reliability and validity estimates
Authors: Tourangeau Roger , Yan Ting , Sun Hanyu , Hyland Andrew , Stanton Cassandra A
Published: October 2018

Introduction

This paper reports a study done to estimate the reliability and validity of answers to the Youth and Adult questionnaires of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study.

Methods

407 adults and 117 youth respondents completed the wave 4 (2016–2017) PATH Study interview twice, 6–24 days apart. The reinterview data were used to estimate the reliability of answers to the questionnaire. Kappa statistics, gross discrepancy rates and correlations between answers to the initial interview and the reinterview were used to measure reliability. We examined every item in the questionnaire for which there were at least 100 observations. After the reinterview, most respondents provided a saliva sample that allowed us to assess the accuracy of their answers to the tobacco use questions.

Results

There was generally a very high level of agreement between answers in the interview and reinterview. On the key current tobacco use items, the average kappa (the agreement rate adjusted for chance agreement) was 0.79 for adult respondents (age 18 or older). Youth respondents exhibited equally high levels of agreement across interviews. The items on current tobacco use also exhibited high levels of agreement with saliva test results (kappa=0.72). Rating scale items showed lower levels of exact agreement across interviews but the answers were generally within one scale point or category.

Conclusions

The PATH Study questions were developed using a careful protocol and the results indicate the answers provide reliable and valid information about tobacco use.
The Gromov limit for vortex moduli spaces
Authors: La Nave Gabriele , Liu Chih-Chung
Published: October 2018

We generalize the descriptions of vortex moduli spaces in [4] to more than one section with adiabatic constant [Formula: see text]. The moduli space is topologically independent of [Formula: see text] but is not compact with respect to [Formula: see text] topology. Following [17], we construct a Gromov limit for vortices of fixed energy, and attempt to compactify the moduli space via bubble trees with possibly conical bubbles (or raindrops).
A Multi-Level Approach for Change Detection of Buildings Using Satellite Imagery
Authors: Sheikh Md. Abdul Alim , Kole Alok , Maity Tanmoy
Published: October 2018

In this paper a novel technique for building change detection from remote sensing imagery is presented. It includes two main stages: (1) Object-specific discriminative features are extracted using Morphological Building Index (MBI) to automatically detect the existence of buildings in remote sensing images. (2) Pixel-based image matching is measured on the basis of Mutual Information (MI) of the images by Normalized Mutual Information (NMI). Here, the MBI features values are computed for each of the pair images taken over the same region at two different times and then changes in these two MBI images are measured to indicate the building change. MI is estimated locally for all the pixels for image matching and then thresholding is applied for eliminating those pixels which are responsible for strong similarity. Finally, after getting the MBI and NMI images, a further fusion of these two images is done for refinement of the change result. For evaluation purpose, the experiments are carried on QuickBird, IKONOS images and images taken from Google Earth. The results show that the proposed technique can attain acceptable correctness rates above 90% with Overall Accuracy (OA) 89.52%.
Bi-warped product submanifolds of Kenmotsu manifolds and their applications
Authors: Uddin Siraj , Alkhaldi Ali H.
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we study bi-warped product submanifolds of the form [Formula: see text] in a Kenmotsu manifold. We obtain a lower bound for the squared norm of the second fundamental form of a bi-warped product submanifold such as [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are the warping functions on [Formula: see text]. The equality case is also considered.
SEROPREVALENCE AND MOLECULAR IDENTIFICATION OF MYCOBACTERIUM AVIUM SUBSPECIES PARATUBERCULOSIS IN FARMED GOATS IN CENTRAL-SOUTHERN TAIWAN
Authors: Lin Heng-Ching , Chong Wai How , Huang Han Hsiang , Chou Chi-Chung , Tsai Yi-Lun , Chu Chi-Shih , Shih Wen-Ling , Lai Jyh-Mirn , Su Yao-Chi
Published: October 2018

Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) are Gram positive, aerobic, acid-fast, catalase positive bacteria. The Johne’s disease, caused by MAP, is a wasting disease found in all ruminants including cattle, sheep, goats, deer, camelids and wildlife ruminants. MAP has attracted hygienic attention due to the link between Crohn’s disease (CD) in humans and MAP presence in the gut of patients. The aims of this study are to investigate and monitor the serological prevalence and molecular identification rate of MAP in caprine feces and verify the MAP-negative goat farms in central-southern Taiwan. A total of 8486 blood samples were randomly collected between the years 2011 and 2015 from 321 caprine farms. The serum samples were assessed by commercial ELISA while 3015 fecal samples from 201 anti-MAP antibodies (MAP-Ab) negative herds were further molecularly examined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from year 2014 to 2015. The individual seroprevalence rate of caprine MAP in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 was 0% (0/1032), 0% (0/429), 0% (0/1402), 0.14% (4/2917) and 0.07% (2/2706), respectively. Molecular identification rate of MAP in caprine fecal samples at MAP-Ab negative farms accounted for 0.92% (14/1515) and 0.93 (14/1500), respectively, in the years 2014 and 2015. Meanwhile, there was no association between the MAP seroprevalence and the sampling regions or years at farm or individual level. The seroprevalence data revealed in this study highlighted the rising prevalence of caprine MAP and the link of MAP to farmed ruminant species and its possible implications in hygienic aspects.
Construction of Strontium Titanate/Binary Metal Sulfide Heterojunction Photocatalysts for Enhanced Visible-Light-Driven Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Yu Yongwei , Yang Qing , Ma Jiangquan , Sun Wenliang , Yin Chong , Li Xiazhang , Guo Jun , Jiang Qingyan , Lu Zhiyuan
Published: October 2018

A novel strontium titanate/binary metal sulfide (SrTiO3/SnCoS4) heterostructure was synthesized by a simple two-step hydrothermal method. The visible-light-driven photocatalytic performance of SrTiO3/SnCoS4 composites was evaluated in the degradation of methyl orange (MO) under visible light irradiation. The photocatalytic performance of SrTiO3/SnCoS4-5% is much higher than that of pure SrTiO3, SnCoS4, SrTiO3/SnS2 and SrTiO3/CoS2. The SrTiO3/SnCoS4 composite material with 5[Formula: see text]wt.% of SnCoS4 showed the highest photocatalytic efficiency for MO degradation, and the degradation rate could reach 95% after 140[Formula: see text]min irradiation time. The enhanced photocatalytic activity was ascribed to not only the improvement of visible light absorption efficiency, but also the construction of a heterostructure which make it possible to effectively separate photoexcited electrons and holes in the two-phase interface.
Writing, Reading, and Translating the Clustered Protocadherin Cell Surface Recognition Code for Neural Circuit Assembly
Authors: Mountoufaris George , Canzio Daniele , Nwakeze Chiamaka L. , Chen Weisheng V. , Maniatis Tom
Published: October 2018

The ability of neurites of individual neurons to distinguish between themselves and neurites from other neurons and to avoid self (self-avoidance) plays a key role in neural circuit assembly in both invertebrates and vertebrates. Similarly, when individual neurons of the same type project into receptive fields of the brain, they must avoid each other to maximize target coverage (tiling). Counterintuitively, these processes are driven by highly specific homophilic interactions between cell surface proteins that lead to neurite repulsion rather than adhesion. Among these proteins in vertebrates are the clustered protocadherins (Pcdhs), and key to their function is the generation of enormous cell surface structural diversity. Here we review recent advances in understanding how a Pcdh cell surface code is generated by stochastic promoter choice; how this code is amplified and read by homophilic interactions between Pcdh complexes at the surface of neurons; and, finally, how the Pcdh code is translated to cellular function, which mediates self-avoidance and tiling and thus plays a central role in the development of complex neural circuits. Not surprisingly, Pcdh mutations that diminish homophilic interactions lead to wiring defects and abnormal behavior in mice, and sequence variants in the Pcdh gene cluster are associated with autism spectrum disorders in family-based genetic studies in humans.
The Use of Sensors for Monitoring the Feeding Process and Adjusting the Feed Supply Velocity in Fish Farms
Authors: Parra Lorena , García Laura , Sendra Sandra , Lloret Jaime
Published: October 2018

Aquaculture is a growing industry, and its sustainability is crucial. One of its major environmental impacts is the uneaten feed that pollutes the water. To minimize the uneaten feed, many systems have been developed. Nevertheless, current systems can be improved by considering the fish position in the tank and the falling feed. In this paper, we propose a system based on fish presence sensors set at different tank heights and a feed detection sensor located in the drainage tubes. The fish presence sensor is based on light-dependent resistor (LDR). The calibration of these sensors is shown. When the output voltage is higher than 1.467 V, we can consider that fish are present. On the other side, the falling feed sensor is based on a CMOS sensor. The calibration process is performed with 40 pictures. The summation of pixels, with brightness value between 0 and 15 in the blue histogram, is used as an indicator of feed presence. If this value is higher than 520 pixels, we can consider that there is feed in the picture. Moreover, a verification process of both sensors is done. The results of the verification confirm the calibration. Finally, the operation of the system is shown.
Mice Selected for Acute Inflammation Present Altered Immune Response during Pristane-Induced Arthritis Progression
Authors: Correa Mara A. , Borrego Andrea , Jensen José R. , Cabrera Wafa H. K. , Barros Michele , Katz Iana S. S. , Canhamero Tatiane , Spadafora-Ferreira Monica , Fernandes Jussara G. , Starobinas Nancy , Ribeiro Orlando G. , Ibañez Olga M. , De Franco Marcelo
Published: October 2018

Mouse lines selected for maximal (AIRmax) or minimal acute inflammatory reaction (AIRmin) were used to characterize the immune response and the influence of genetic background during pristane-induced arthritis (PIA). Susceptible AIRmax mice demonstrated exacerbated cellular profiles during PIA, with intense infiltration of lymphocytes, as well as monocytes/macrophages and neutrophils, producing higher levels of IL-1β, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-10, total IgG3, and chemokines. Resistant AIRmin mice controlled cell activation more efficiently than the AIRmax during arthritis progression. The weight alterations of the spleen and thymus in the course of PIA were observed. Our data suggest that selected AIRmax cellular and genetic immune mechanisms contribute to cartilage damage and arthritis severity, evidencing many targets for therapeutic actions.
Template-Free Electrochemical Preparation of Hexagonal CuSn Prism-Structural Electrode for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Pan Xiaona , Zhang Haiyan , Wen Xiaoyu , Zhang Jinqiu , An Maozhong , Yang Peixia
Published: October 2018

A hexagonal prism CuSn alloy was prepared at room temperature from 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium dicyanamide ([Emim][DCA]) by the direct template-free electrodeposition method with different concentrations of Cu(I) and Sn(II) at a low current density of 0.04 A dm−2. Moreover, the electrodeposition time was also investigated, and the results indicated that the composition of the CuSn alloy became complex and the structure turned unstable with expanding time. The cycling performance of the hexagonal prism-structural CuSn electrode was investigated, with the first discharge capacity of 345 mAh g−1 and a discharge capacity of about 210 mAh g−1 after 10 cycles.
Intermittent Hypoxia Enhances THP-1 Monocyte Adhesion and Chemotaxis and Promotes M1 Macrophage Polarization via RAGE
Authors: Zhou Jing , Bai Wei , Liu Qin , Cui Jian , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2018

Intermittent hypoxia (IH) that resulted from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been found to be a risk factor of coronary artery disease. IH and the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) expression are known to activate monocyte/macrophage and associated with atherosclerosis development, while their effects on monocyte adhesion, chemotaxis to the endothelium, and macrophage polarization remain unknown. In the present study, RAGE in THP-1 monocytes was inhibited by shRNA lentiviral particles, followed by exposure to IH. Cell adhesion assay, transwell migration assay, and macrophage polarization assays were performed to study the effects of IH and RAGE. The mRNA and protein expression levels were investigated by RT/real-time PCR and western blot analysis, respectively. We found that IH increased RAGE expression and activated NF-кB signalling in THP-1 monocytes. The results also revealed that IH enhanced the MCP-1-mediated THP-1 monocyte adhesion and chemotaxis and promoted macrophage polarization toward a proinflammatory phenotype, which was mediated by RAGE activity. Additionally, inhibition of chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2) suppressed the IH-induced monocyte adhesion and chemotaxis. These results demonstrated a potential role of monocyte adhesion, chemotaxis, and macrophage polarization in the development cardiovascular diseases induced by IH and identified that RAGE could be a promising therapeutic target to prevent atherosclerosis in patients with OSA.
OK-432 Acts as Adjuvant to Modulate T Helper 2 Inflammatory Responses in a Murine Model of Asthma
Authors: Wu Cheng-Jang , Tseng Pin-Hsun , Chan Cheng-Chi , Quon Sara , Chen Li-Chen , Kuo Ming-Ling
Published: October 2018

Enhanced type 2 helper T (Th2) cell responses to inhaled harmless allergens are strongly associated with the development of allergic diseases. Antigen formulated with an appropriate adjuvant can elicit suitable systemic immunity to protect individuals from disease. Although much has been learned about Th1-favored immunomodulation of OK-432, a streptococcal preparation with antineoplastic activity, little is known about its adjuvant effect for allergic diseases. Herein, we demonstrate that OK-432 acts as an adjuvant to favor a systemic Th1 polarization with an elevation in interferon- (IFN-)γand ovalbumin- (OVA-) immunoglobulin (Ig) G2a. Prior vaccination with OK-432 formulated against OVA attenuated lung eosinophilic inflammation and Th2 cytokine responses that were caused by challenging with OVA through the airway. This vaccination with OK-432 augmented the ratios of IFN-γ/interleukin- (IL-) 4 cytokine and IgG2a/IgG1 antibody compared to the formulation with Th2 adjuvant aluminum hydroxide (Alum) or antigen only. The results obtained in this study lead us to propose a potential novel adjuvant for clinical use such as prophylactic vaccination for pathogens and immunotherapy in atopic diseases.
An Ethanolic Extract of Allium hookeri Root Alleviates Reflux Esophagitis and Modulates NF‐κB Signaling
Authors: Nan Li , Nam Hyeon Hwa , Choo Byung Kil , Park Jin Cheon , Kim Dae Geun , Lee Jeong Ho , Moon Kwang Hyun
Published: October 2018

Reflux esophagitis (RE) is a kind of gastroesophageal reflux disease, of which an esophageal inflammatory lesion is caused by the contents of the stomach and duodenum flowing back into the esophagus. Allium hookeri is a plant possessing both nutritional and medicinal properties. In our study, we investigated the inhibition effect of inflammation of A. hookeri root extract (AHE) on inflammatory RAW264.7 macrophage cells induced by lipopolysaccharide and rat models of RE. The results showed that AHE significantly reduced the production of nitric oxide (NO) and the protein expression levels of various mediators related to inflammation including inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), and inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α). Furthermore, AHE also inhibited the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) by inhibiting the phosphorylation IκBα. In addition, AHE administration significantly ameliorated esophageal mucosal damage upon histological evaluation of RE in rats. AHE was also found to downregulate the expression levels of proteins such as COX‐2, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β in the rat esophagus. AHE markedly attenuated activation of NF‐κB and phosphorylation of IκBα at the same time. These results indicated that AHE suppressed LPS‐induced inflammatory responses in RAW264.7 cells and may help reduce the development of esophagitis through the modulation of inflammation by regulating NF‐κB activation.
Seismic Performance Analysis of a Connected Multitower Structure with FPS and Viscous Damper
Authors: Wu Xiaohan , Wang Jun , Zhou Jiangyong
Published: October 2018

A high four‐tower structure is interconnected with a long sky corridor bridge on the top floor. To reduce the earthquake responses and member forces of the towers and sky corridor bridge, a passive control strategy with a friction pendulum tuned mass damper (FPTMD) was adopted. The sky corridor bridge was as the mass of FPTMD. The connection between the towers and the sky corridor bridge was designed as flexible links, where friction pendulum bearings (FPBs) and viscous dampers were installed. Elastoplastic time‐history analysis was conducted by using Perform‐3D model to look into its seismic behavior under intensive seismic excitation. The optimal design of the FPTMD with varying friction coefficients and radius of friction pendulum bearing (FPB) under seismic excitations was carried out, and the seismic behavior of the structure was also investigated at the same time.Results show that, for this four‐tower connected structure, the friction pendulum tuned mass damper (FPTMD) has very well effect on seismic reduction. The structure can meet the seismic resistance design requirements.
Experimental Analysis of a Small-Scale Rotor at Various Inflow Angles
Authors: Kolaei Amir , Barcelos Devin , Bramesfeld Götz
Published: October 2018

The performance characteristics of a rotor that is typically used for small unmanned aircraft were analyzed in a series of wind-tunnel experiments. Wind-tunnel measurements were conducted with the rotor at various inflow angles in order to investigate the effects on the rotor performance of partially or fully edgewise flow as they are typically encountered with small multirotor vehicles. Rotor tests were also performed under static and fully axial flow conditions in order to investigate the aerodynamic performance during hover as well as vertical climb and descent. The wind-tunnel data were corrected to account for the interference of wind-tunnel walls with the rotor wake and the blockage due to the presence of the rotor test stand in the wind-tunnel test section. The results are presented in terms of thrust, power, and roll moment coefficients under different rotor rotational speeds for a T-motor 18x6.1. Additionally, the measured thrust and power coefficients of Master Airscrew Electric 11x7 are compared with available propeller data under static and axial flow conditions for verification purposes. It is shown that the rotor performance characteristics are strongly affected by the freestream advance ratio and the freestream inflow angles. For example, at inflow angles that are typical for multirotor vehicles between about 15° and 0° with respect to the rotor disc, thrust coefficients stay constant or grow with increasing advance ratio, whereas power coefficients remain relatively constant with changing advance ratio.
Decentralized Adaptive Double Integral Sliding Mode Controller for Multi-Area Power Systems
Authors: Le Ngoc Minh Bui , Huynh Van Van , Nguyen Tam Minh , Tsai Yao Wen
Published: October 2018

Most of the existing results for load frequency control of multi-area interconnected power systems can only be obtained when the norm of the aggregated uncertainties is bounded by a positive constant. This condition is difficult to achieve in real multi-area interconnected power systems. In this paper, a new load frequency control (LFC) for multi-area interconnected power systems is developed based on a decentralised adaptive double integral sliding mode control technique where the above limitation is eliminated. First, an adaptive gain tuning law is adopted to estimate the unknown upper bound of the aggregated uncertainties. Second, a double integral sliding surface based adaptive sliding mode controller is proposed to improve the transient performance of the closed loop system. Simulation results show that the proposed control law results in shortening the frequency’s transient response, avoiding the overshoot, rejecting disturbance better, maintaining required control quality in the wider operating range, and being more robust to uncertainties as compared to some existing control methods.
Experimental Validation of Fatigue Life of CCGA 624 Package with Initial Contact Pressure of Thermal Gap Pads under Random Vibration Excitation
Authors: Park Tae-Yong , Jeon Su-Hyeon , Kim Su-Jeong , Jung Sung-Hoon , Oh Hyun-Ung
Published: October 2018

Thermal gap pads are widely used for effective heat transfer from high-heat-dissipating components to a heat sink. The initial contact pressure of thermal pads is an important parameter for enhancing the heat transfer capability of thermal design during the assembly process of the heat sink. However, this causes stress on the solder joint of the component as a result of the pad’s inherent resistance to deformation. In this study, we investigated the effect of thermal pad on the fatigue life of the solder joint of CCGA 624 package for space usage. A random vibration fatigue test for several specimen assembly sets with various pressurization levels of thermal gap pads was performed, and their fatigue lives were compared with that of the package without the initial pressure of thermal gap pads.
Association of Cold‐Heat Patterns with Tongue Features, Body Composition, Anthropometric Indices, and Blood Parameters in Tae‐Eum Type
Authors: Kim Jihye , Park Soo Jung , Yoon Jiwon , Lee Bum Ju , Kim Keun Ho
Published: October 2018

Introduction. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the relationship between cold‐heat patterns and body composition, anthropometric indices, blood parameters, and tongue features in Tae‐Eum type subjects. We also sought to determine whether significant indicators could be used as risk factors for predicting cold‐heat patterns in a clinic. Methods. This prospective, case‐control pilot study was conducted at a single center. The subjects were males and females aged 19 years or older who had been analyzed as the Tae‐Eum type. After screening, subject allocation was performed. The body composition, 11 anthropometric indices, blood parameters, and tongue features of the subjects were measured by well‐trained practitioners. An independent t‐test was conducted to compare the cold‐ and heat‐pattern groups. Binary logistic regression was performed to determine significant differences between the two groups after adjusting for age, sex, and systolic blood pressure, with a focus on identifying significant indicators. Results. Eighty‐nine participants were recruited, 39 of whom were excluded from the analysis. Ultimately, 20 cold‐pattern and 30 heat‐pattern subjects were included in the final analysis. We found that alanine aminotransferase and all anthropometric indices, except for neck and forehead circumference, were significant predictive factors in both groups according to the binary regression analysis. Additionally, the tongue body color in the cold‐pattern group was significantly paler than that in the heat‐pattern group. Conclusions. This study found that cold and heat patterns were significantly associated with body composition, anthropometric indices, blood parameters, and tongue features. We suggest that these factors could thus be used as objective indicators and predictors of cold‐heat patterns. Our findings provide fundamental but also applicable data that will be useful for diagnosing and monitoring cold‐heat patterns in Tae‐Eum type patients.