bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toxicity of Potential Fungal Defense Proteins towards the Fungivorous Nematodes Aphelenchus avenae and Bursaphelenchus okinawaensis
Authors: Tayyrov Annageldi , Schmieder Stefanie S. , Bleuler-Martinez Silvia , Plaza David F. , Künzler Markus
Published: September 2018

Our results support the hypothesis that cytoplasmic proteins abundant in fungal fruiting bodies are involved in fungal resistance against predation. The toxicity of these proteins toward stylet-feeding nematodes, which are also capable of feeding on plants, and the abundance of these proteins in edible mushrooms, may open possible avenues for biological crop protection against parasitic nematodes, e.g., by expression of these proteins in crops.
Fluorescently Labeled DNA Interacts with Competence and Recombination Proteins and Is Integrated and Expressed Following Natural Transformation of Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Boonstra Mirjam , Vesel Nina , Kuipers Oscar P.
Published: September 2018

We used DNA that was covalently labeled with fluorescent nucleotides to investigate the transformation process of
Bacillus subtilis
at the molecular level. We show that the labeled DNA colocalizes with components of the competence machinery, the chromosome, and the recombination protein RecA. Using time-lapse microscopy and microfluidics, we visualized, in real-time, the uptake of fluorescently labeled DNA. We found that under these conditions, cell division is not required for the expression of integrated DNA. Because the competence machinery is conserved in naturally competent bacteria, this method can also be used to investigate the transformation process in many other bacterial species.
External auditory canal lesion: colorectal metastatic adenocarcinoma
Authors: James Aswathy , Karandikar Sharad , Baijal Shobhit
Published: September 2018

The patient presented to the ear, nose and throat clinic with failed conservative treatment of persistent right otitis externa. On examination, the roof of the right ear canal was polypoid and the tympanic membrane could not be visualised. There was a fragile mass noted in the external auditory canal (EAC) which on microsuction started to bleed. CT internal auditory meatus and MRI internal auditory meatus identified soft tissue mass in the EAC. The patient underwent urgent examination under anaesthetic of the ear and biopsies were taken. He had a background of ascending colon cancer; Duke’s C1, pT4, N1 M0, R0 resection and had undergone laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with adjuvant chemotherapy, in the previous year. The biopsy results proved that the mass in the EAC was due to metastatic deposit of colorectal primary tumour. The patient also had a full body CT which revealed other new metastases. The patient is being treated with palliative chemotherapy.
Delusional infestation in the treatment of ADHD with atomoxetine
Authors: Howes Catriona F , Sharp Clifford
Published: September 2018

The case describes an adult diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and treated with atomoxetine who quickly developed a florid case of delusional infestation. The patient described very distressing experiences that were significantly impacting her daily life. The symptoms improved with the withdrawal of atomoxetine and resolved completely with antipsychotic medications. Atomoxetine is proposed as the putative causative agent in this case.
Spontaneous resolution of a ‘ping-pong’ fracture at birth
Authors: Ilhan Ozkan , Bor Meltem , Yukkaldiran Pinar
Published: September 2018

‘Ping-pong’ fractures are depressed skull fractures in newborn infants that occur as inward buckling of the calvarial bones, forming a cup shape. These fractures are often associated with maintenance of bone continuity. These fractures may occur spontaneously during the intrauterine period or secondary to birth trauma. Currently, there is no standard protocol for the management of depressed skull fractures. Neurosurgical or non-surgical approaches may be administered depends on the severity of the fracture. Most untreated ping-pong fractures resolve spontaneously within 6 months. Therefore, it is recommended to reserve surgical elevation or non-surgical techniques for infants not demonstrating spontaneous resolution during this period. In addition, neurosurgical interventions are usually considered for cases with intracranial pathology or neurological deficits or for infants who do not respond to conservative treatment. Herein, we report a case of a newborn infant with a spontaneous intrauterine ping-pong fracture, which spontaneously resolved, without surgical or non-surgical intervention.
Mantra meditation programme for emergency department staff: a qualitative study
Authors: Lynch Julie , Prihodova Lucia , Dunne Pádraic J , O’Leary Caoimhe , Breen Rachel , Carroll Áine , Walsh Cathal , McMahon Geraldine , White Barry
Published: September 2018

Objectives

Rates of burnout and stress in healthcare practitioners are steadily increasing. Emergency department (ED) staff are particularly susceptible to such poor outcomes. Mantra meditation (MM) may contribute to increased well-being. The primary aim of this study was to obtain indepth qualitative feedback on ED staff’s experience of a MM programme. A secondary objective was to harness staff’s perception of the ED working environment.

Design

Qualitative study.

Setting

ED in St James’ Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.

Participants

Doctors, nurses, allied health professionals and administrative staff (n=10, eight women, mean age 35.6 years) working in the ED who attended a MM programme.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted by a trained independent researcher. Interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed.

Results

Five main themes and six subthemes were identified: work pressure and perceived stress; perceived benefits of meditation (with subthemes of increased attention/awareness, improved emotion regulation and new coping mechanisms, relaxation and sleep quality); conflicting attitudes to practice; barriers to meditation practice (with subthemes of schedule, length of practice and individual differences); and facilitators to practice.

Conclusion

ED staff in this study described the demands of their work and voiced a need for a workplace well-being programme. Our findings suggest that MM might represent a viable tool to develop attention and awareness, improve emotion regulation and improve their capacity to cope with stress, which may impact their workplace well-being, wider health service, patient safety and quality of care. Support from the organisation is considered to be integral to embedding of a workplace well-being programme, such as the practice of meditation into their daily lives.
Advance notice of contraceptive availability at surgical abortion: a pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Roe Andrea H , Fortin Jennifer , Gelfand Danielle , Janiak Elizabeth , Maurer Rie , Goldberg Alisa
Published: September 2018

Background

With advance notice about the availability and effectiveness of contraceptive methods, abortion patients have more time and information for decision-making. We assessed the impact of an informational telephone call prior to the surgical abortion visit on patient contraceptive knowledge.

Methods

This was a pilot randomised controlled trial. Prior to their abortion visit, participants were randomised to the intervention message, a standardised notification about the availability, effectiveness and safety of long-acting (LARC) and short-acting reversible contraception (SARC) on the day of the abortion, or to the control message, a reiteration of appointment logistics without information about contraception. At the visit, participants completed a pre-procedure survey to assess contraceptive knowledge and usefulness of the intervention. The primary outcome was knowledge of LARC availability immediately after surgical abortion. A secondary outcome was contraceptive method uptake.

Results

We enrolled 234 subjects. The pre-visit telephone notification improved knowledge that LARC is available immediately after surgical abortion (71.3% vs 50.9%, P<0.01). Participants in both study arms found the telephone notifications useful. Post-abortion contraceptive method choice did not differ between study arms.

Conclusions

Advance notice about contraception was acceptable to surgical abortion patients and improved their contraceptive knowledge.

Trial registration number

NCT02836561.
BET 2: CT versus MRI for occult hip fractures
Authors: Foex Bernard A , Russell Anna
Published: September 2018

A short-cut review was carried out to establish whether CT or MRI is better at detecting an occult hip fracture. Six studies were directly relevant to the question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of these papers are tabulated. The clinical bottom line is that CT is a valid first-line investigation for a suspected plain X-ray occult hip fracture. If clinical suspicion remains after a negative CT scan, then MRI should be used.
Protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial comparing plasma with balanced crystalloid resuscitation in surgical and trauma patients with septic shock
Authors: Wei Shuyan , Kao Lillian S , Wang Henry E , Chang Ronald , Podbielski Jeanette , Holcomb John B , Wade Charles E
Published: September 2018

Background

Septic shock is a public health problem with high mortality. There remains a knowledge gap regarding the optimal resuscitation fluid to improve clinical outcomes, and the underlying mechanism by which fluids exert their effect. Shock-induced endotheliopathy (SHINE) is thought to be a shared pathophysiologic mechanism associated with worsened outcomes in critically ill trauma and sepsis patients. SHINE is characterized by breakdown of the glycocalyx—a network of membrane-bound proteoglycans and glycoproteins that covers the endothelium. This has been associated with capillary leakage and microvascular thrombosis, organ dysfunction, and mortality. Biomarkers of SHINE have been shown to correlate with clinical outcomes in patients with septic shock. Interventions to mitigate SHINE may improve outcomes in patients with septic shock. In surgical/trauma patients with septic shock, initial plasma resuscitation as compared with balanced crystalloid (BC) resuscitation will mitigate biomarkers of SHINE and improve clinical outcomes.

Methods

A pilot, single-center randomized controlled trial (RCT) will compare initial plasma to BC resuscitation in surgical and trauma patients with septic shock. Patients will be enrolled based on a Sepsis Screening Score of ≥4 with a suspected source of infection. Patient randomization only occurs if they meet the criteria: (1) hypotension with mean arterial pressure <65 mm Hg, and (2) evidence of hypoperfusion including lactic acid >4 mmol/L, altered mental status or decreased urine output of <0.5 mL/kg in the past hour.

Results

The primary outcome is a reduction in serum biomarkers at 6 hours. Secondary outcomes will include clinical outcomes such as intensive care unit-free days, organ dysfunction, and in-hospital mortality.

Discussion

This trial will provide insights into the effects of initial plasma resuscitation on SHINE. Furthermore, it will provide unbiased estimates regarding the feasibility, safety, and clinical efficacy of plasma resuscitation in septic shock on which to base subsequent adequately powered multicenter RCTs.

Trail registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03366220).
Coexistence of Subharmonic Resonant Modes Obeying a Period-Adding Rule
Authors: Kroetz Tiago , Portela Jefferson S. E. , Viana Ricardo L.
Published: September 2018

We report numerical evidence of a novel chain of subharmonic resonances organized in period-adding domains in the parameter space. Different periodic domains are mediated by a coexisting main subharmonic motion according to a hierarchical organization rule. We consider the driven bilinear oscillator — which is the simplest system to model a range of engineering systems going from cracked mechanical structures to switching electronic circuits — and show that its parameter space is marked by multistability involving subharmonic main modes, as well as period-adding secondary modes which, through a period-doubling route, lead to coexisting chaotic attractors.
Multiple Attractor Bifurcation in Three-Dimensional Piecewise Linear Maps
Authors: Patra Mahashweta
Published: September 2018

Multiple attractor bifurcations lead to simultaneous creation of multiple stable orbits. This may be damaging for practical systems as there is a fundamental uncertainty regarding which orbit the system will follow after a bifurcation. Such bifurcations are known to occur in piecewise smooth maps, which model many practical and engineering systems. So far the occurrence of such bifurcations have been investigated in the context of 2D piecewise linear maps. In this paper, we investigate multiple attractor bifurcations in a three-dimensional piecewise linear normal form map. We show the occurrence of different types of multiple attractor bifurcations in the system, like the simultaneous creation of a period-2 orbit, a period-3 orbit and an unstable chaotic orbit; a mode-locked torus, an ergodic torus and periodic orbits; a one-loop torus and a two-loop torus; a one-loop mode-locked torus and a two-loop mode-locked torus; a one-piece chaotic orbit and a 3-piece chaotic orbit, etc. As orbits lie on unstable manifolds of fixed points, the structure of unstable manifold plays an important role in understanding the coexistence of attractors. In this work, we show that interplay between 1D and 2D stable and unstable manifolds plays an important role in global bifurcations that can give rise to multiple coexisting attractors.
Hidden Coexisting Attractors in a Chaotic System Without Equilibrium Point
Authors: Zhou Wei , Wang Guangyi , Shen Yiran , Yuan Fang , Yu Simin
Published: September 2018

This paper proposes a new three-dimensional chaotic system with no equilibrium point but can generate hidden chaotic attractors. Dynamic characteristics of the system are analyzed in detail by theoretical analysis and simulating experiments, including hidden attractors, transient period and coexisting attractors. Different hidden coexisting attractors exist in this system, which shows abundant and complex dynamic characteristics and can be used to generate pseudorandom sequences for encryption fields. Besides, the presented system is realized by the digital signal processing (DSP) technology to construct a chaotic signal generator, whose statistical properties are tested by National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) software. The obtained results are better than that of the Lorenz system and imply the presented system can be used in the encrypted fields.
Bifurcations and Hyperchaos in Magnetoconvection of Non-Newtonian Fluids
Authors: Layek G. C. , Pati N. C.
Published: September 2018

We report the existence of multiple bifurcations, period-doubling route to chaos and hyperchaos in magnetoconvection of a shallow, electrically conducting non-Newtonian couple-stress fluid layer heated from underneath with vertically imposed magnetic field. By adopting low-order approximations, a four-dimensional dissipative hyperchaotic system with six control parameters is obtained. Both fluid couple-stress and magnetic parameters delay the onset of convection. In contrast to plain couple-stress convection, the magnetic field instigates the occurrence of Andronov–Hopf, Bogdanov–Takens bifurcations with double-homoclinic connection at the origin near the onset of magnetoconvection when the magnetic diffusivity ratio (the ratio of fluid Prandtl number to magnetic Prandtl number) is less than one. Thereafter the system exhibits periodic attractors near subcritical Hopf bifurcation at nonzero equilibrium points undergoing chaos through period-doubling process. Owing to the interaction between the magnetic field and fluid couple-stress, the present model system exhibits hyperchaos via a suddenly created instability during stable oscillation for critical values of the parameters.
Nonlinear Modeling and Qualitative Analysis of Coupled Vibrations in a Drill String
Authors: Ren Fushen , Wang Baojin , Chen Suli
Published: September 2018

A coupled model for axial/torsional/lateral vibrations of the drill string is presented, in which the nonlinear dynamics and qualitative analysis method are employed to find out the key factors and sensitive zone for coupled vibration. The drill string is simplified as an equivalent shell under axial rotation. After dimensionless processing, the mathematical model for coupled axial/torsional/lateral vibrations of the drill string is obtained. The Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg method is employed for the numerical simulation, and the rules that govern the changing of the torsional and axial excitation are revealed. And the stability domains of the explicit Runge–Kutta method are analyzed. Furthermore, the suggestions for field applications are also presented. It is demonstrated by simulation results that the lateral/axial/torsional vibrations exist simultaneously and couple with each other. The system will obtain a stable period motion with an axial excitation zone before the coupled vibration in the three directions, and continue to increase the axial excitation to cause the coupled vibration easily. The torsional excitation of the drill string mainly contributes to the coupled vibration in the three directions when in a specific rotation speed zone. The system is more likely to obtain a periodic motion through adjusting the torsional excitation out of this zone.
Flux-Charge Analysis of Initial State-Dependent Dynamical Behaviors of a Memristor Emulator-Based Chua’s Circuit
Authors: Chen Mo , Bao Bocheng , Jiang Tao , Bao Han , Xu Quan , Wu Huagan , Wang Jiang
Published: September 2018

It is known that dynamical behaviors of memristive circuit are significantly affected by its initial states, which are difficult to be explicitly analyzed or controlled in voltage–current domain and have become great obstacles for its potential engineering applications. In this paper, the complex initial state-dependent dynamical behaviors of a physically realized memristive Chua’s circuit are detailed and investigated using incremental flux-charge modeling method. This circuit is modeled in terms of incremental flux and charge, in which the original line equilibrium point is converted into some determined equilibrium points relying on the initial states of the dynamic elements. Moreover, the special initial state-dependent behaviors are transformed into system parameter-associated behaviors. Consequently, the detailed influences of each initial state, even the occurrence of hidden oscillations, can readily be theoretically interpreted. Finally, the initial state-dependent behaviors are physically captured and directed in the equivalent realization circuit of the incremental flux-charge model.
Analysis of the Chaotic Dynamics of MEMS/NEMS Doubly Clamped Beam Resonators with Two-Sided Electrodes
Authors: Dantas W. G. , Gusso A.
Published: September 2018

We investigate the chaotic dynamics of micro- and nanoelectromechanical (MEMS/NEMS) beam resonators actuated electrostatically by two-sided electrodes, considering devices with realistic physical parameters. We model the resonators using the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory with the addition of viscous damping, midplane stretching and the electrostatic force. For the purpose of numerical simulations, the partial differential equation describing the system is reduced to a one degree of freedom model using the Galerkin method. The resulting nonlinear ordinary differential equation incorporates the main effects of the beam curvature. A comparison with the widely used parallel plate approximation (PPA) evidences the significant effects of the beam curvature. It is also concluded that in the case of resonators with two-sided electrodes special care must be taken when using the PPA. A detailed numerical analysis reveals the region in the relevant parameter space where chaos can be found. Phase portraits, Poincaré sections and bifurcation diagrams are used to characterize the chaotic attractors. The effects of gap asymmetry and damping are also investigated, showing that a stronger chaotic dynamics is favored by small asymmetries and smaller damping. In general, a more complex chaotic dynamics was found, compared to what was initially expected. The results are relevant in view of the potential practical applications in the generation of pseudo-random numbers and chaotic signals for secure communications. The proposed improved model can be easily implemented numerically, helping in the design and simulation of resonators, and the comparison between theoretical and experimental results.
Effect of Port Gas Injection on the Combustion Instabilities in a Spark-Ignition Lean-Burn Natural Gas Engine
Authors: Wang Li-Yuan , Yang Li-Ping , Song En-Zhe , Yao Chong , Ma Xiu-Zhen
Published: September 2018

The combustion instabilities in a lean-burn natural gas engine have been studied. Using statistical analysis, phase-space reconstruction, and wavelet transforms, the effect of port gas injection on the dynamics of the indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) fluctuations have been examined at a speed of 800[Formula: see text]rpm and engine load rates of 25% and 50%. The excessive air coefficient is 1.6 for each engine load, and the port gas injection timing (PGIT) ranges from 1 to 120 degrees of crankshaft angle ([Formula: see text]CA) after top dead center (ATDC) of the intake process. The results show that the PGIT has a significant effect on cyclic combustion fluctuations and the dynamics of the combustion system for all studied engine loads. An unreasonable PGIT leads to increased combustion fluctuations, and loosened and bifurcated structures of combustion system attractors. Furthermore, for both low and medium engine loads, the IMEP time series at earlier gas injections ([Formula: see text]CA and [Formula: see text]CA ATDC) undergoes low-frequency fluctuation together with high-frequency fluctuations in an intermittent fashion. For other PGITs, high-frequency intermittent fluctuations become persistent combined with weak low-frequency oscillations. Our results can be used to understand the oscillation characteristics and the complex dynamics of combustion system in a lean-burn natural gas engine. In addition, they may also be beneficial to the development of more sophisticated engine control strategies.
Bifurcations of Finite-Time Stable Limit Cycles from Focus Boundary Equilibria in Impacting Systems, Filippov Systems, and Sweeping Processes
Authors: Makarenkov Oleg , Niwanthi Wadippuli Achchige Lakmi
Published: September 2018

We establish a theorem on bifurcation of limit cycles from a focus boundary equilibrium of an impacting system, which is universally applicable to prove the bifurcation of limit cycles from focus boundary equilibria in other types of piecewise-smooth systems, such as Filippov systems and sweeping processes. Specifically, we assume that one of the subsystems of the piecewise-smooth system under consideration admits a focus equilibrium that lie on the switching manifold at the bifurcation value of the parameter. In each of the three cases, we derive a linearized system which is capable of concluding the occurrence of a finite-time stable limit cycle from the above-mentioned focus equilibrium when the parameter crosses the bifurcation value. Examples illustrate how conditions of our theorems lead to closed-form formulas for the coefficients of the linearized system.
Inducing Sensitivity of Fuzzified Dynamical Systems
Authors: Zhao Yingcui , Wang Lidong , Lei Fengchun
Published: September 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be a dynamical system, [Formula: see text] be the system on hyperspace and [Formula: see text] be its [Formula: see text]-fuzzification. We study the relations among the various forms of sensitivity of the systems [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Firstly, we give a simpler proof of the theorem in [Wu & Chen, 2017] which states that [Formula: see text] is sensitive if and only if [Formula: see text] is sensitive. Then, we show that (1) all forms of sensitivity of [Formula: see text] are the same for [Formula: see text], (2) all forms of sensitivity of [Formula: see text] partly imply the same for [Formula: see text], and the converse holds in some cases.
Charged compact objects in f(R,T) gravity
Authors: Sharif M. , Waseem Arfa
Published: September 2018

This paper analyzes the effects of charge on the nature of relativistic compact star candidates with anisotropic distribution in the framework of [Formula: see text] gravity. For this purpose, we consider Krori–Barua solutions and obtain the values of unknown constants as well as charge using observational data of Her X-1, 4U1820-30 and SAX J 1808.4-3658 star models. For three viable [Formula: see text] models, we investigate the behavior of energy density, transverse as well as radial pressures in the interior geometry of these stars. The validity of energy conditions, effect of anisotropic factor and stability of these stellar models are also examined. We conclude that the effect of charge leads to more stable structures of relativistic compact objects.
The source of error behavior for the solution of Black–Scholes PDE by finite difference and finite element methods
Authors: Özer H. Ünsal , Duran Ahmet
Published: September 2018

Black–Scholes partial differential equation (PDE) is one of the most famous equations in mathematical finance and financial industry. In this study, numerical solution analysis is done for Black–Scholes PDE using finite element method with linear approach and finite difference methods. The numerical solutions are compared with Black–Scholes formula for option pricing. The numerical errors are determined for the finite element and finite difference applications to Black–Scholes PDE. We examine the error behavior and find the source of the corresponding errors under various market situations.
The Winneshiek biota: exceptionally well-preserved fossils in a Middle Ordovician impact crater
Authors: Briggs Derek E.G. , Liu Huaibao P. , McKay Robert M. , Witzke Brian J.
Published: September 2018

The Winneshiek Shale (Middle Ordovician, Darriwilian) was deposited in a meteorite crater, the Decorah impact structure, in NE Iowa. This crater is 5.6 km in diameter and penetrates Cambrian and Ordovician cratonic strata. It was probably situated close to land in an embayment connected to the epicontinental sea; typical shelly marine taxa are absent. The Konservat-Lagerstätte within the Winneshiek Shale is important because it represents an interval when exceptional preservation is rare. The biota includes the earliest eurypterid, a giant form, as well as a new basal chelicerate and the earliest ceratiocarid phyllocarid. Conodonts, some of giant size, occur as bedding plane assemblages. Bromalites and rarer elements, including a linguloid brachiopod and a probable jawless fish, are also present. Similar fossils occur in the coeval Ames impact structure in Oklahoma, demonstrating that meteorite craters represent a novel and under-recognized setting for Konservat-Lagerstätten.
On Automated Memoization in the Field of Simulation Parameter Studies
Authors: Stoffers Mirko , Schemmel Daniel , Dustmann Oscar Soria , Wehrle Klaus
Published: September 2018

Processes in computer simulations tend to be highly repetitive. In particular, parameter studies further exasperate the situation as the same model is repeatedly executed with only partially varying parameters. Consequently, computer simulations perform identical computations, with identical code, identical input, and hence identical output. These redundant computations waste significant amounts of time and energy.

Memoization, dating back to 1968, enables the caching of such identical intermediate results, thereby significantly speeding up those computations. However, until now, automated approaches were limited to pure functions. At ACM SIGSIM-PADS 2016 we published, to the best of our knowledge, the first practical approach for automated memoization for impure code. In this work, we extend this approach and evaluate the performance characteristics of a number of extensions that deal with questions posed at PADS: (1) To reduce and bound the memory footprint, we investigate several cache eviction strategies. (2) We allow the original and the memoized code to coexist via a runtime-switch and analyze the crossover point, thereby mitigating memoization overhead. (3) By optionally persisting the Memoization Cache to disk, we expand the scope to exploratory parameter studies where cached results can now be reused across multiple simulation runs.

Altogether, automated memoization for impure code is a valuable technique, the versatility of which we explore further in this article. It sped up a case study of an OFDM network simulation by a factor of more than 80 with an only marginal increase of memory consumption.
Development and Validation of an HPLC Method for Determination of Antidiabetic Drug Alogliptin Benzoate in Bulk and Tablets
Authors: Naseef Hani , Moqadi Ramzi , Qurt Moammal
Published: September 2018

Alogliptin benzoate, a member of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, is a recent drug developed by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes; it potentiates the effect of incretin hormones through the inhibition of their degradation. Alogliptin can be used alone or in combination therapy. A new sensitive and rapid HPLC method was developed for the determination of alogliptin benzoate in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage forms; it was validated according to ICH and FDA guidelines. The HPLC analysis was performed on the Agilent 1200 system equipped with a Hypersil Gold Thermo Scientific C18 (250 cm × 4.6 mm) 5 µm column, with a mixture of acetonitrile and ammonium carbonate buffer in the ratio of 55 : 45 v/v as the mobile phase, at the flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The detection was performed at the wavelength (λ) of 277, and the retention time of alogliptin benzoate was around 4 min. The total run time was 6.0 min. The calibration plot gave linear relationship over the concentration range of 85–306 µg/ml. The LOD and LOQ were 0.03 and 0.09 μg, respectively. The accuracy of the proposed method was determined by recovery studies and was found to be 100.3%. The repeatability testing for both standard and sample solutions showed that the method is precise within the acceptable limits. RSD% of the determination of precision was <2%. The results of robustness and solutions stability studies were within the acceptable limits as well. The proposed method showed excellent linearity, accuracy, precision, specificity, robustness, LOD, LOQ, and system suitability results within the acceptance criteria. In addition, the main features of the developed method are low run time and retention time around 4 min.
Acute Hemoptysis Redefined: A Deadly Presentation
Authors: Galvis Claudio , Galvis Juan M. , Guardiola Juan , Umpierrez De Reguero Adrian P.
Published: September 2018

An aortic aneurysm is a permanent localized arterial dilation with more than 50% of the artery diameter. Among the complications of an aortic aneurysm, one of the rarest is the aorto-bronchial fistula, which presents with massive hemoptysis; this condition is lethal if not treated surgically. We report a 90-year-old man with no significant medical history who presented to the emergency department with abrupt onset of hemoptysis; his chest X-ray displayed left upper lobe opacity with widened mediastinum. CT chest revealed aneurysmatic dilatation of the aorta, left upper lobe opacity suspicious of pulmonary aortic fistula. Thoracic surgery was consulted but due to his poor functional status surgery was deferred. On the second day of hospitalization, the patient developed another episode of massive hemoptysis resulting in hypovolemic shock and expired. This case epitomizes the relevance of broad differential diagnosis for hemoptysis and the prompt assessment and management of the patients with this condition.
Silencing ELMO3 Inhibits the Growth, Invasion, and Metastasis of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Hu Yan , Yu Qiongfang , Zhong Yao , Shen Wei , Zhou Xiaoyan , Liu Xu , Xu Mingpu , Zhou Nanjin , Min Weiping , Gao Dian
Published: September 2018

ELMO3 is a member of the engulfment and cell motility (ELMO) protein family, which plays a vital role in the process of chemotaxis and metastasis of tumor cells. However, remarkably little is known about the role of ELMO3 in cancer. The present study was conducted to investigate the function and role of ELMO3 in gastric cancer (GC) progression. The expression level of ELMO3 in gastric cancer tissues and cell lines was measured by means of real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blot analysis. RNA interference was used to inhibit ELMO3 expression in gastric cancer cells. Then, wound-healing assays, Transwell assays, MTS assays, flow cytometry, and fluorescence microscopy were applied to detect cancer cell migration, cell invasion, cell proliferation, the cell cycle, and F-actin polymerization, respectively. The results revealed that ELMO3 expression in GC tumor tissues was significantly higher than in the paired adjacent tissues. Moreover, knockdown of ELMO3 by a specific siRNA significantly inhibited the processes of cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, regulation of the cell cycle, and F-actin polymerization. Collectively, the results indicate that ELMO3 participates in the processes of cell growth, invasion, and migration, and ELMO3 is expected to be a potential diagnostic and prognostic marker for GC.
Saponin Bitterness Reduction of Carica papaya Leaf Extracts through Adsorption of Weakly Basic Ion Exchange Resins
Authors: Syed Amran Sharifah Nuruljannah , Zainal Abidin Noraziani , Hashim Haslaniza , Zubairi Saiful Irwan
Published: September 2018

Carica papaya that belongs to Caricaceae family has long been known as a traditional medicine for dengue fever, as well as for anticancer and antiinflammatory studies following identification of beneficial phytochemicals such as saponins in the leaves. Unfortunately, the compound has been known to induce a bitter taste in the leaf extract for human consumption, making them unpopular and nonconsumer friendly. Thus, this study aims to observe the potential adsorption of saponin compound from C. papaya leaves using ion exchange resins as an adsorbent for the reduction of bitter-taste-inducing saponins. This study uses three types of weakly basic ion exchanging resins, namely, Amberlite IRA-67, Diaion WA30, and Diaion WA21J, at different adsorbent doses of 5% (w/v) and 10% (w/v). The Peleg model suggests that the extraction of saponins from C. papaya leaves lasted for 12.50 hours yield a maximum amount of saponins, 9.31 mg/g. Further study shows that there is a significant difference (p<0.05) of saponin adsorption percentage between these three types of resins. The Diaion WA30 resin showed the highest percentage of adsorption at 87.83% (w/w) as compared to the other two 5% (w/v) loaded resin. The 10% (w/v) resin-loaded Diaion WA30 demonstrated the highest overall adsorption capacity as much as 97.59% (w/w) with the shortest exhaustive time of 4.99 hours. The overall acceptance of samples in sensory evaluation treated with ion exchange resins gave good response in which the sample treated with 10% (w/v) resin-loaded Diaion WA30 demonstrated the highest overall acceptance in parallel with having the lowest bitterness score as compared to other samples and fresh samples (untreated). The Langmuir constant (RL) was less than one (0.167–0.398), indicating the adsorption of saponins onto Diaion WA30 was favourable.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Very Young Children: First Case Reports on Stability and Developmental Considerations
Authors: Scheeringa Michael S. , Burns Lauren C.
Published: September 2018

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is purported to start in early childhood but concerns about attenuation of anxiety symptoms over time and the development of emerging cognitive and emotional processing capabilities pose multiple challenges for accurate detection. This paper presents the first known case reports of very young children with GAD to examine these developmental challenges at the item level. Three children, five-to-six years of age, were assessed with the Diagnostic Infant and Preschool Assessment twice in a test-retest reliability study. One case appeared to show attenuation of the worries during the test-retest period based on caregiver report but not when followed over two years. The other two cases showed stability of the full complement of diagnostic criteria. The cases were useful for demonstrating that the current diagnostic criteria appear adequate for this developmental period. The challenges of accurate assessment of young children that might cause missed diagnoses are discussed. Future research on the underlying dysregulation of negative emotionality and long-term follow-ups are needed to better understand the etiology, treatment, and course of GAD in this age group.
Focal Intramucosal Adenocarcinoma Occurring in Gastric Hyperplastic Polyps Treated with Endoscopic Mucosal Resection
Authors: Alférez-Andía Jéssica , Benites-Goñi Harold , Palacios-Salas Fernando
Published: September 2018

Hyperplastic polyps are the most frequent benign epithelial gastric polyps. Although they are considered nonneoplastic, some cases have been reported with focal adenocarcinoma. We present the case of a 59-year-old woman with a sessile lesion of 15 mm on the distal gastric body associated with an extensive atrophic gastritis. Magnifying endoscopy with Fuji Intelligent Color Enhancement (FICE) revealed an irregular microsurface pattern at the apex, suggesting malignancy. A mucosectomy was performed. The histopathology revealed that the base corresponded to a hyperplastic polyp, where a tubular adenoma with high-grade dysplasia was established, with focal well-differentiated intramucosal tubular adenocarcinoma.
Biodistribution and Tumors MRI Contrast Enhancement of Magnetic Nanocubes, Nanoclusters, and Nanorods in Multiple Mice Models
Authors: Naumenko V. , Garanina A. , Nikitin A. , Vodopyanov S. , Vorobyeva N. , Tsareva Y. , Kunin M. , Ilyasov A. , Semkina A. , Chekhonin V. , Abakumov M. , Majouga A.
Published: September 2018

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful technique for tumor diagnostics. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) are safe and biocompatible tools that can be used for further enhancing MR tumor contrasting. Although numerous IONPs have been proposed as MRI contrast agents, low delivery rates to tumor site limit its application. IONPs accumulation in malignancies depends on both IONPs characteristics and tumor properties. In the current paper, three differently shaped Pluronic F-127-modified IONPs (nanocubes, nanoclusters, and nanorods) were compared side by side in three murine tumor models (4T1 breast cancer, B16 melanoma, and CT26 colon cancer). Orthotopic B16 tumors demonstrated more efficient IONPs uptake than heterotopic implants. Magnetic nanocubes (MNCb) had the highest r2-relaxivity in vitro (300 mM−1·s−1) compared with magnetic nanoclusters (MNCl, 104 mM−1·s−1) and magnetic nanorods (MNRd, 51 mM−1·s−1). As measured by atomic emission spectroscopy, MNCb also demonstrated better delivery efficiency to tumors (3.79% ID) than MNCl (2.94% ID) and MNRd (1.21% ID). Nevertheless, MNCl overperformed its counterparts in tumor imaging, providing contrast enhancement in 96% of studied malignancies, whereas MNCb and MNRd were detected by MRI in 73% and 63% of tumors, respectively. Maximum MR contrasting efficiency for MNCb and MNCl was around 6-24 hours after systemic administration, whereas for MNRd maximum contrast enhancement was found within first 30 minutes upon treatment. Presumably, MNRd poor MRI performance was due to low r2-relaxivity and rapid clearance by lungs (17.3% ID) immediately after injection. MNCb and MNCl were mainly captured by the liver and spleen without significant accumulation in the lungs, kidneys, and heart. High biocompatibility and profound accumulation in tumor tissues make MNCb and MNCl the promising platforms for MRI-based tumor diagnostics and drug delivery.
Reliability Modeling and Estimation of the Gear System
Authors: Bai Enjun , Xie Liyang , Ma Hongyi , Ren Jungang , Zhang Shijian
Published: September 2018

Traditional reliability models of the gear system either simplify the gear system unreasonably or are too complicated to be applicable for some gear systems. Therefore, a reliability model of the gear system considering statistically dependent failure based on the theory of the order statistics is developed in this paper. Firstly, the gear bending fatigue test of small sample is implemented to obtain the P-S-N curves that are fitted by using the least square method and the linear regression method of the statistical parameters under the test stress levels. Then, according to stress-strength interference theory and the theory of the order statistics, the reliability models considering the number of load cycles from a gear to gear system are built, which indicates clear modeling process of the gear system. Finally, the proposed reliability model of gear system is validated by using the Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) and the system reliability under special load history is analyzed qualitatively.
Research on Initial Installed Power Loss of a Certain Type of Turbo-Shaft Engine Using Data Mining and Statistical Approach
Authors: Wu Heng , Li Benwei , Zhao Shufan , Yang Xinyi , Song Hanqiang
Published: September 2018

The installed positions of three domestic turbo-shaft engines mounted on a certain type of ship-borne helicopter interfere with the intake air flow of the engines, resulting in a decline of engine performance after initial installation. Due to the difference of load and adjustment method under the bench and installed conditions, it is necessary to study the change in gas turbine power rather than output shaft power of the engine before and after installation to evaluate the engine initial installed power loss. In this paper, quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization (QPSO) is applied to optimize the calculation of gas turbine power at different steady states based on the component-level aerodynamic thermal model of gas generator. Then, extreme learning machine (ELM) is adopted for regressive identification of the established gas generator state assessment model based on data mining and the identification model is applied to engine installed condition. Finally, statistical analysis of engine initial installed gas turbine power loss at three installed positions is carried out, respectively. Results show that the values of engine initial installed gas turbine power loss at three installed positions all conform to the normal distribution, the mean values are 1.658%, 9.828%, and 5.089%, respectively, and a confidence interval with 95% confidence level of the mean values are (1.388%, 1.928%), (9.178%, 10.478%) and (4.308%, 5.870%), which can provide references for determining the power monitoring thresholds after engine installation.
Cold Dissection Tonsillectomy and Radiofrequency Tonsil Ablation: A Prospective Comparative Study
Authors: Kumar Shailendra , Padiyar B. Vageesh , Rai Anil Kumar
Published: September 2018

Background: Over the last few years, various techniques have been proposed for performing tonsillectomy in an attempt to lower the morbidity of this surgery. However, controversy still exists regarding the optimal technique involving the least postoperative morbidity. More recently, temperature-controlled radiofrequency has been introduced as a much more effective and safe device for tonsil reduction. Objective: To compare the effectiveness of conventional tonsillectomy versus radiofrequency tonsil ablation with respect to duration of surgery, amount of intraoperative bleeding, recovery time, and postsurgical pain. Materials and Methods: 60 patients were randomly divided into two groups. One group underwent conventional cold ablation tonsillectomy while radiofrequency tonsillectomy was performed in the second group. Duration of surgery, amount of intraoperative bleeding, recovery time, and postsurgical pain (using the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale®) were measured. All patients were followed for 24 months. Results: Comparing the radiofrequency tonsillectomy group to the cold dissection tonsillectomy group, the mean duration of surgery was 6.92 versus 18 min, the amount of intraoperative bleeding was 2.75 versus 39.88 mL, and the difference on the postoperative pain scale between the two groups was statistically significant (p < 0.005). There was no recurrence of tonsillitis episodes in either of the 2 groups during the 2-year follow-up period. Conclusion: After adequate training, the radiofrequency technique is beneficial to both the surgeon and the patient, including the possibility to excise tissue and coagulate bleeding vessels with the same device. Postoperative morbidity and complications are lower as compared to the conventional cold dissection technique.
Effect of Ascorbic Acid on Mineral and Bone Disorders in Hemodialysis Patients: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ke Guibao , Huang Junlin , Zhu Yue , Yang Jia , Zhang Yamei , Chen Lvlin , Hu Juan , Tao Shaoqiang , Hu Yao , Yang Dehua , Liu Shuangxin
Published: September 2018

Background/Aims: Hemodialysis (HD) patients often have inadequate nutrition, especially with respect to ascorbic acid (AA). It is reported that every HD session may cause a 50%– 75% decrease in plasma AA levels. Some studies have shown that supplementation of AA can change the outcome of chronic kidney disease-mineral bone disorders (CKD-MBD), but the effect of AA on HD patients with CKD-MBD remains controversial. Consequently, we decided to perform a meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of AA supplementation in CKD-MBD patients requiring dialysis. Methods: A search was conducted using Pubmed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang database and VIP information database up to April 2018 for all English and Chinese language publications. The main indicators of our study were changes in serum phosphate (P), calcium (Ca) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels after AA treatment. The efficacy of AA was evaluated by weighted mean difference (WMD) and confidence intervals (CI). Cardiovascular events, mortality and adverse events reported during the experiment were also noted. Results: In total, 371 patients in six studies were involved in this meta-analysis. Compared to placebo, AA treatment had no positive effect on serum P (353 patients; WMD = -0.05; 95% CI, -0.3 to 0.2; I2 = 28%) or PTH levels (275 patients; WMD = -17.04; 95%CI, -63.79 to 29.72; I2 = 75%). The pooled mean difference of the change of Ca levels from baseline was higher in the AA therapy group versus placebo (353 patients; WMD = 0.15; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.3; I2 = 0%). No side effects were observed. Conclusion: Our systematic review and meta-analysis does not support prescription of AA to HD patients with CKD-MBD. AA had no positive effect on CKD-MBD patients as it couldn’t influence the serum P or PTH levels but did raise serum Ca levels in the short-term.