bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuropilin 1 Mediates Keratinocyte Growth Factor Signaling in Adipose-Derived Stem Cells: Potential Involvement in Adipogenesis
Authors: Ceccarelli Simona , Nodale Cristina , Vescarelli Enrica , Pontecorvi Paola , Manganelli Valeria , Casella Giovanni , Onesti Maria Giuseppina , Sorice Maurizio , Romano Ferdinando , Angeloni Antonio , Marchese Cinzia
Published: February 2018

Adipogenesis is regulated by a complex network of molecules, including fibroblast growth factors. Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) has been previously reported to promote proliferation on rat preadipocytes, although the expression of its specific receptor, FGFR2-IIIb/KGFR, is not actually detected in mesenchymal cells. Here, we demonstrate that human adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) show increased expression of KGF during adipogenic differentiation, especially in the early steps. Moreover, KGF is able to induce transient activation of ERK and p38 MAPK pathways in these cells. Furthermore, KGF promotes ASC differentiation and supports the activation of differentiation pathways, such as those of PI3K/Akt and the retinoblastoma protein (Rb). Notably, we observed only a low amount of FGFR2-IIIb in ASCs, which seems not to be responsible for KGF activity. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that Neuropilin 1 (NRP1), a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed in ASCs acting as a coreceptor for some growth factors, is responsible for KGF-dependent pathway activation in these cells. Our study contributes to clarify the molecular bases of human adipogenesis, demonstrating a role of KGF in the early steps of this process, and points out a role of NRP1 as a previously unknown mediator of KGF action in ASCs.
Restless Legs Syndrome in Dialysis Patients: Does the Dialysis Modality Influence Its Occurrence and Severity?
Authors: de Menezes Andreia Freire , Motta Douglas Rafanelle Moura de Santana , Carvalho Fernanda Oliveira de , Santana-Santos Eduesley , de Andrade Júnior Manoel Pacheco , Figueirôa Mirela Farias , Farias Maria Isabel Teles , Bastos Kleyton de Andrade
Published: February 2018

Background. Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is more prevalent in chronic kidney patients than in the general population, but it is often diagnosed late and its predictors are unknown. Purpose. To diagnose RLS in a group of chronic kidney patients on dialysis, determine its frequency and severity, compare the prevalence and severity of the condition among dialytic modalities, and identify possible predictive factors in this population. Methods. An observational and cross-sectional study with 326 patients who had been on dialysis for more than 3 months, 241 on hemodialysis (HD) and 85 on automatic peritoneal dialysis (APD), using the criteria established by the International Study Group on RLS for the diagnosis and the RLS Rating Scale to determine its severity. Results. RLS was diagnosed in 19.3% of the patients, 52.4% with severe or very severe forms. Patients with and without RLS did not differ in clinical and demographic characteristics and dialytic modality; however, patients on APD presented higher RLS severity compared to the HD group. Conclusions. RLS is frequent in dialysis patients and occurs predominantly in its most severe forms; the dialytic modality seems to have no influence on its occurrence; however, it is more severe in patients on APD.
Spatial Downscaling of GPM Annual and Monthly Precipitation Using Regression-Based Algorithms in a Mountainous Area
Authors: Zhan Chesheng , Han Jian , Hu Shi , Liu Liangmeizi , Dong Yuxuan
Published: February 2018

As a fundamental component in material and energy circulation, precipitation with high resolution and accuracy is of great significance for hydrological, meteorological, and ecological studies. Since satellite measured precipitation is often too coarse for practical applications, it is essential to develop spatial downscaling algorithms. In this study, we investigated two downscaling algorithms based on the Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) and the Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR), respectively. They were employed to downscale annual and monthly precipitation obtained from the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Mission in Hengduan Mountains, Southwestern China, from 10 km × 10 km to 1 km × 1 km. Ground observations were then used to validate the accuracy of downscaled precipitation. The results showed that (1) GWR performed much better than MLR to regress precipitation on Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Digital Elevation Model (DEM); (2) coefficients of GWR models showed strong spatial nonstationarity, but the spatial mean standardized coefficients were very similar to standardized coefficients of MLR in terms of intra-annual patterns: generally NDVI was positively related to precipitation when monthly precipitation was under 166 mm; DEM was negatively related to precipitation, especially in wet months like July and August; contribution of DEM to precipitation was greater than that of NDVI; (3) residuals’ correction was indispensable for the MLR-based algorithm but should be removed from the GWR-based algorithm; (4) the GWR-based algorithm rather than the MLR-based algorithm produced more accurate precipitation than original GPM precipitation. These results indicated that GWR is a promising method in satellite precipitation downscaling researches and needed to be further studied.
Stability Analysis for a Class of Discrete‐Time Nonhomogeneous Markov Jump Systems with Multiplicative Noises
Authors: Zhou Shaowei , Liu Xiaoping , Chen Bing , Liu Hongxia
Published: February 2018

This paper is concerned with a class of discrete‐time nonhomogeneous Markov jump systems with multiplicative noises and time‐varying transition probability matrices which are valued on a convex polytope. The stochastic stability and finite‐time stability are considered. Some stability criteria including infinite matrix inequalities are obtained by parameter‐dependent Lyapunov function. Furthermore, infinite matrix inequalities are converted into finite linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) via a set of slack matrices. Finally, two numerical examples are given to demonstrate the validity of the proposed theoretical methods.
Immune Escape Mechanisms and Future Prospects for Immunotherapy in Neuroblastoma
Authors: Vanichapol Thitinee , Chutipongtanate Somchai , Anurathapan Usanarat , Hongeng Suradej
Published: February 2018

Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial solid tumor in childhood with 5-year survival rate of 40% in high-risk patients despite intensive therapies. Recently, adoptive cell therapy, particularly chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, represents a revolutionary treatment for hematological malignancies. However, there are challenges for this therapeutic strategy with solid tumors, as a result of the immunosuppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Cancer cells have evolved multiple mechanisms to escape immune recognition or to modulate immune cell function. Several subtypes of immune cells that infiltrate tumors can foster tumor development, harbor immunosuppressive activity, and decrease an efficacy of adoptive cell therapies. Therefore, an understanding of the dual role of the immune system under the influences of the TME has been crucial for the development of effective therapeutic strategies against solid cancers. This review aims to depict key immune players and cellular pathways involved in the dynamic interplay between the TME and the immune system and also to address challenges and prospective development of adoptive T cell transfer for neuroblastoma.
Canaloplasty versus Nonpenetrating Deep Sclerectomy: 2-Year Results and Quality of Life Assessment
Authors: Byszewska Anna , Jünemann Anselm , Rękas Marek
Published: February 2018

Purpose. To compare phacocanaloplasty (PC) and phaco-non-penetrating deep sclerectomy (PDS). Methods. 75 patients with uncontrolled glaucoma and cataract were randomized for PC (37 eyes) or PDS (38 eyes). Intraocular pressure (IOP) and number of medications (meds) were prospectively evaluated. Follow-up examinations were performed on days 1 and 7 and after 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Surgical success was calculated. Complications and postoperative interventions were noted. Quality of life (QoL) was analyzed. Results. Preoperatively, mean IOP and meds were comparable (P>0.05). After 24 months, IOP significantly decreased in PC from 19.4 ± 5.9 mmHg (2.6 ± 0.9 meds) to 13.8 ± 3.3 mmHg (0.5 ± 0.9 meds) and in PDS from 19.7 ± 5.4 mmHg (2.9 ± 0.9 meds) to 15.1 ± 2.9 mmHg (1.1 ± 1.2 meds). Statistically lower IOP was observed in PC in the 6th month and persisted until 24 months (P<0.05). No difference was found in meds (except for month 18, in which less drugs were used in PC (P=0.001)) or success rates (P>0.05). The most frequent complication in PC was transient hyphema (46%), in PDS bleb fibrosis (24%). PC patients during postoperative period required only goniopuncture (22% of subjects), whereas PDS patients required, in order to maintain subconjuctival outflow, subconjunctival 5-fluorouracil injections in 95% of cases (median = 3), suture lysis (34%), needling (24%), and goniopuncture (37%). NEI VFQ-25 mean composite score for PC was 78.04 ± 24.36 points and for PDS 74.29 ± 24.45 (P=0.136). α Cronbach’s correlation coefficient was 0.913. Conclusions. PC leads to a more effective decrease in IOP than PDS in midterm observation with similar safety profiles. PDS patients required a vast number of additional procedures in contrast to PC patients, but this fact did not influence QoL.
Standardization of the Manufacturing Process of Bee Venom Pharmacopuncture Containing Melittin as the Active Ingredient
Authors: Lee Yoonmi , Kim Sung-Geun , Kim In-Su , Lee Hwa-Dong
Published: February 2018

Background. Pharmacopuncture is a unique treatment in oriental medicine that combines chemical stimulation with conventional acupuncture. However, there are no standardized methods for preparing the herbal medicines used in pharmacopuncture, and it is not clear whether the active ingredients are safe and stable. Several studies have investigated nonstandardized preparation processes, but few investigations have addressed safety and preparation methods. Pharmacopuncture may provide an alternative treatment for incurable diseases. However, it must be as valid and safe as standardized medicine. In this way, the present project may contribute to the industrialization of medicine in Korea. It may also expand health insurance coverage by promoting evidence‐based medical insurance benefits. Thus, the present study attempted to standardize and improve the raw materials, preparation, and efficacy of bee venom pharmacopuncture (BVP), which is a highly effective technique in oriental medicine. Method. To purify the crude bee venom, the extract was subjected to a stepped‐gradient open column (ODS‐A; 120 Å, 150 mesh). Using this method, the yield of melittin was significantly increased and the allergen proteins were effectively removed. The melittin content of the purified bee venom was determined using HPLC, and the product was then diluted to 0.1 mg/mL using injection water in preparation for BVP. Results. In the present study, we standardized the purification process to provide safe and stable BVP by increasing the main effective components and eliminating allergens. This study will be seminal in the industrialization and regulation of BVP. Conclusion. We developed an effective strategy for melittin purification and allergen removal from bee venom to create safe BVP.
From Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome to Radiologically Isolated Syndrome
Authors: Tripathi Richa , Bernitsas Evanthia
Published: February 2018

Background. Autonomic dysfunction is common in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients. Most spinal cord lesions entail some degree of autonomic nervous system dysfunction. MS patients may develop autonomic dysfunction later in their disease course. Methods. We report a patient with no prior history of MS presenting with orthostatic symptoms and diagnosed initially with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). Four months later, she was diagnosed with radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS). The diagnosis was supported by imaging and CSF analysis. Conclusion. Our case sheds light on the need to consider autonomic dysfunction as an initial presentation of demyelinating pathology. Larger trials are needed to outline the possible association between POTS and RIS.
Cucurbitacin I Protects H9c2 Cardiomyoblasts against H2O2‐Induced Oxidative Stress via Protection of Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: Yang Dong Kwon , Kim Shang-Jin
Published: February 2018

Cucurbitacin I, a triterpenoid natural compound, exhibits various pharmacological properties, including anticancer, anti‐inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties. However, antioxidant effects of cucurbitacin I in cardiac cells are currently unknown. In the present study, we assessed the preventive effects of cucurbitacin I against the oxidative stress in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts. To evaluate antioxidant effects of cucurbitacin I in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts, H2O2‐treated H9c2 cells were pretreated with various concentrations of the cucurbitacin I. Cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and apoptosis were determined to elucidate the protective effects of cucurbitacin I against H2O2‐induced oxidative stress in H9c2 cells. In addition, we assessed the mitochondrial functions and protein expression levels of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Cucurbitacin I prevented the cells against cell death and ROS production and elevated the antioxidant protein levels upon oxidative stress. Furthermore, cucurbitacin I preserved the mitochondrial functions and inhibited the apoptotic responses in H2O2‐treated cells. Cucurbitacin I also suppressed the activation of MAPK proteins (extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase, and p38). Collectively, cucurbitacin I potentially protects the H9c2 cardiomyoblasts against oxidative stress and further suggests that it can be utilized as a therapeutic agent for the prevention of oxidative stress in cardiac injury.
Effect of Upright and Slouched Sitting Postures on the Respiratory Muscle Strength in Healthy Young Males
Authors: Albarrati Ali , Zafar Hamayun , Alghadir Ahmad H. , Anwer Shahnwaz
Published: February 2018

Objective. The present study compared the effects of upright and slouched sitting postures on the respiratory muscle strength in healthy young males.Methods. A total of 35 adult male subjects aged 18–35 years participated in this study. Respiratory muscle strength was determined by measurement of sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP) using a MicroRPM device in the upright and slouched sitting positions. The subjects were asked to perform the pulmonary function test including peak expiratory flow (PEF), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and FEV1/FVC ratio at baseline. Body composition was also determined.Results. There was a significant difference of SNIP score between upright sitting and slouched sitting positions (p=0.04). The mean difference of SNIP score between upright sitting and slouched sitting positions was 8.7 cmH2O. Significant correlations were found between SNIP in upright sitting and FEV1% predicted values [R= .651], SNIP in slouched sitting and FEV1% predicted values [R= .579], and SNIP in upright sitting and SNIP in slouched sitting positions [R= .926] (p<0.05for all). There were no significant correlations between SNIP scores, demographic variables, and other baseline clinical data (p>0.05).Conclusions. The slouched sitting position had a lower SNIP score compared to upright sitting position suggesting a reduced diaphragm tension and movement as a result of altered body posture.
An Increased Frequency in HLA Class I Alleles and Haplotypes Suggests Genetic Susceptibility to Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Pandemic: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Falfán-Valencia Ramcés , Narayanankutty Arun , Reséndiz-Hernández Juan M. , Pérez-Rubio Gloria , Ramírez-Venegas Alejandra , Nava-Quiroz Karol J. , Bautista-Félix Nora E. , Vargas-Alarcón Gilberto , Castillejos-López Manuel D. J. , Hernández Andrés
Published: February 2018

Background. The influenza A H1N1/09 pandemic infected a small number of exposed individuals, which suggests the involvement of genetic factors. There are scarce data available on classical HLA class I association with the influenza A H1N1/09 pandemic. Methods. We analyzed the frequency of classical HLA class I alleles and haplotypes in A H1N1/09 influenza in a case-control study including 138 influenza patients (INF-P) and 225 asymptomatic healthy contacts (INF-C) simultaneously recruited. HLA class I typing was performed by high-resolution sequence-based typing method. Results. Our analysis revealed higher frequency of C∗07:02:01, B∗39:06:02, C∗03:02:01, B∗44:03:01, B∗51:01:05, and B∗73:01 (p<0.05; OR = 1.84–9.98) and of two haplotypes—A∗68:01:02-C∗07:02:01 (p=1.05E−05; OR = 23.99) and B∗35:01:01-C∗07:02.01 (p=4.15E−04, OR = 2.15)—in A H1N1/09 influenza subjects. A∗68:01:01 was exclusively present only in the INF-P group (5/138). A decrease in the frequency of C∗03:03:01, A∗11:01:01, B∗39:01:01, A∗24:02:01, C∗03:04:01, B∗51:01:01, and C∗07:01:01 (p<0.05; OR = 0.12–0.52) and of haplotypes A∗02:01:01-B∗35:01:01-C∗04:01:01, A∗24:02:01-B∗35:01:01, B∗39:01:01-C∗07:02:01, and B∗40:02:01-C∗03:04:01 (p<0.05; OR = 0.08–0.22) were observed in INF-P group. Conclusion. Selective classical HLA class I allele and haplotype combinations predispose individuals towards susceptibility or protection against the influenza A H1N1/09 pandemic. This work has significant implications for accessing population transmission risk for A H1N1/09 or a similar strain breakout in the future.
Outcome of Pediatric Cataract Surgeries in a Tertiary Center in Switzerland
Authors: Ambroz Sarah Claudia , Töteberg-Harms Marc , Hanson James V. M. , Funk Jens , Barthelmes Daniel , Gerth-Kahlert Christina
Published: February 2018

Purpose. To determine and to analyze the outcome of pediatric cataract surgery. Methods. A retrospective chart review of individuals aged up to 10 years who underwent cataract surgery between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2014, at the UniversityHospital Zurich, Switzerland. Results. 63 children (94 affected eyes) with bilateral (68/94) or unilateral (26/94) cataract were identified. Surgery was performed at a median age of 1.5 months (IQR: 1.3–2.6 months) for the aphakic group (45/94) and of 50.7 months (IQR: 38.0–78.4 months) for the IOL group (49/94). At the last follow-up visit (median 31.1 months, IQR: 18.4–50.2 months), visual acuity was better in bilateral than in unilateral cataract cases. Posterior capsular opacification (PCO) was diagnosed in 30.9% of eyes without a significant difference in the IOL and aphakic groups (p=0.12). Aphakic glaucoma was diagnosed in 12/45 eyes at a median of 6.8 months (IQR 2.1–13.3 months) after surgery. Microcornea (5/12) and anterior segment anomalies (8/12) were associated with glaucoma development (p<0.05). Conclusion. Laterality and timing of surgery influence the outcome of pediatric cataract surgery. PCO was the most frequent postoperative complication. Aphakic glaucoma is often associated with ocular developmental abnormalities and a poor visual outcome.
The Role of miRNA-132 against Apoptosis and Oxidative Stress in Heart Failure
Authors: Liu Xuelei , Tong Zhou , Chen Keyan , Hu Xiaofang , Jin Hongxu , Hou Mingxiao
Published: February 2018

Objective. To explore the effect of microRNA-132 of heart failure and provide theoretical guidance for clinical treatment of heart failure (HF). Methods. Peripheral blood was collected from HF patients. RT-qPCR was used to determine microRNA-132 expression. Mouse models of heart failure were established. Color Doppler ultrasound was utilized to measure the changes of cardiac function. HE and Masson staining were applied to observe pathological changes of the myocardium. After H9C2 cells were transfected with microRNA-132, MTT assay was employed to detect the stability of H9C2 cells. ELISA was used to measure the levels of oxidative stress factors. Western blot assay and RT-qPCR were utilized to determine the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, TGF-β1, and smad3. Results. MicroRNA-132 expression was downregulated in HF patients’ blood. After establishing mouse models of HF, cardiac function obviously decreased. HE staining revealed the obvious edema and hypertrophy of cardiomyocytes. Masson staining demonstrated that cardiomyocytes were markedly fibrotic. After microRNA-132 transfection and H9C2 cell apoptosis induced by H2O2, antioxidant stress and antiapoptotic ability of the H9C2 cells obviously increased. TGF-β1 and smad3 expression remarkably diminished. Conclusion. Overexpression of microRNA-132 dramatically increased the antioxidant stress and antiapoptotic ability of H9C2 cells and decreased the expression of TGF-β1 and smad3.
Three‐Dimensional Memristive Hindmarsh–Rose Neuron Model with Hidden Coexisting Asymmetric Behaviors
Authors: Bao Bocheng , Hu Aihuang , Bao Han , Xu Quan , Chen Mo , Wu Huagan
Published: February 2018

Since the electrical activities of neurons are closely related to complex electrophysiological environment in neuronal system, a novel three‐dimensional memristive Hindmarsh–Rose (HR) neuron model is presented in this paper to describe complex dynamics of neuronal activities with electromagnetic induction. The proposed memristive HR neuron model has no equilibrium point but can show hidden dynamical behaviors of coexisting asymmetric attractors, which has not been reported in the previous references for the HR neuron model. Mathematical model based numerical simulations for hidden coexisting asymmetric attractors are performed by bifurcation analyses, phase portraits, attraction basins, and dynamical maps, which just demonstrate the occurrence of complex dynamical behaviors of electrical activities in neuron with electromagnetic induction. Additionally, circuit breadboard based experimental results well confirm the numerical simulations.
Oxidative Stress‐Mediated Overexpression of Uracil DNA Glycosylase in Leishmania donovani Confers Tolerance against Antileishmanial Drugs
Authors: Mishra Anshul , Khan Mohd. Imran , Jha Pravin K. , Kumar Ajay , Das Sushmita , Das Prolay , Das Pradeep , Sinha Kislay K.
Published: February 2018

Leishmania donovani is an intracellular protozoan parasite that causes endemic tropical disease visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Present drugs used against this fatal disease are facing resistance and toxicity issues. Survival of leishmania inside the host cells depends on the parasite’s capacity to cope up with highly oxidative environment. Base excision repair (BER) pathway in L. donovani remains unexplored. We studied uracil DNA glycosylase (UNG), the key enzyme involved in BER pathway, and found that the glycosylase activity of recombinant LdUNG (Leishmania donovani UNG) expressed in E. coli is in sync with the activity of the parasite lysate under different reaction conditions. Overexpression of UNG in the parasite enhances its tolerance towards various agents which produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and shows a higher infectivity in macrophages. Surprisingly, exposure of parasite to amphotericin B and sodium antimony gluconate upregulates the expression of UNG. Further, we found that the drug resistant parasites isolated from VL patients show higher expression of UNG. Mechanisms of action of some currently used drugs include accumulation of ROS. Our findings strongly suggest that targeting LdUNG would be an attractive therapeutic strategy as well as potential measure to tackle the problem of drug resistance in the treatment of leishmaniasis.
Agricultural Farm-Related Injuries in Bangladesh and Convenient Design of Working Hand Tools
Authors: Parvez M. S. , Shahriar M. M.
Published: February 2018

Injuries during cultivation of land are the significant causes of recession for an agricultural country like Bangladesh. Thousands of tools are used in agricultural farm having much probability of getting injury at their workplaces. For the injury prevention, proper hand tool designs need to be recommended with ergonomic evaluations. This paper represents the main causes of agricultural injuries among the Bangladeshi farmers. Effective interventions had been discussed in this paper to reduce the rate of injury. This study was carried out in the Panchagarh district of Bangladesh. Data on 434 agricultural injuries were collected and recorded. About 67% injuries of all incidents were due to hand tools, and the remaining 33% were due to machinery or other sources. Though most of the injuries were not serious, about 22% injuries were greater than or equal to AIS 2 (Abbreviated Injury Scale). The practical implication of this study is to design ergonomically fit agricultural hand tools for Bangladeshi farmers in order to avoid their injuries.
Uniaxial Compressive Test of High Ductile Fiber‐Reinforced Concrete and Damage Constitutive Model
Authors: Deng Mingke , Pan Jiaojiao , Liang Xingwen
Published: February 2018

It has been widely recognized that the constitutive model plays an essential role in engineering application of high ductile fiber‐reinforced concrete (HDC). In this research, uniaxial compressive tests were conducted on nine groups of HDC specimens with different mixture ratios and one group of mortar matrix specimens as comparison, discussing the effect of fiber content, water‐cement ratio, fly ash content, and sand‐binder ratio. According to the characteristics of stress‐strain curve of HDC under uniaxial compression, a damage constitutive model was proposed by introducing two damage threshold parameters and then was compared with other existing models. Results indicated that the damage model curves suggested in this paper were best consistent with experimental curves and substantially demonstrate the damage evolution process as well as the cracking resistance effect of fiber bridging stress.
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Dyspnea Secondary to Right Ventricular Myxoma: A Novel Presentation of an Unusual Tumor
Authors: Knight Tristan E. , Shiramizu Bruce , Ly Princeton , Thompson Karen S. , Reddy Venu
Published: February 2018

A 14-month-old male presented with paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea and grade III/VI systolic ejection murmur at the upper left sternal border with an S4 gallop and was subsequently found to have a right ventricular cardiac myxoma. Prior presentations of these tumors have been with exertional syncope and murmur, asymptomatic murmur, or exertional dyspnea; the presentation of such a tumor with paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea is novel.
Optimal Analysis of Tunnel Construction Methods through Cross Passage from Subway Shaft
Authors: Song Zhanping , Cao Zhilin , Wang Junbao , Wei Shoufeng , Hu Shichun , Niu Zelin
Published: February 2018

The conversion section of the cross passage and shaft is a priority concern in the stress transformation of a tunnel structure during subway underground excavation. In the construction of Subway Line 5 in Xi′an, China, the main line in the loess layer was constructed through the cross passage from the subway shaft of the Yue Deng Pavilion–San Dian Village Station tunnel section. Numerical simulation and field measurement were adopted to study the construction stability of the cross passage and shaft under two possible construction methods: the “shaft followed by cross passage construction” method and the “cross passage parallel shaft construction” method. The results showed that the surface deformation and plastic zone of the surrounding rock are similar under the two construction methods. However, of the two, the “cross passage parallel shaft construction” method was more advantageous in controlling the structural deformation of the original shaft and the stress distribution of the horsehead structure. The field monitoring data showed that the surface settlements and the deformation of the original shaft structures meet the requirement of control standards under the “cross passage parallel shaft construction” method.
Leader-Follower Based Locally Rigid Formation Control
Authors: Raghuwaiya Krishna , Sharma Bibhya , Vanualailai Jito
Published: February 2018

This paper addresses motion control of a cooperative intelligent transport system (C-ITS) of nonholonomic mobile robots navigating a dynamic environment while maintaining a locally rigid formation. We consider the design of acceleration-based control inputs that govern the motion of cooperative intelligent transport system (C-ITS) using the artificial potential fields method for the avoidance of obstacles and attraction to designated targets. The control scheme utilizes a new leader-follower strategy using Cartesian coordinates to accomplish a collision-free locally rigid formation of an autonomous and intelligent transportation system. The concepts of virtual parking bays and minimum distance technique (MDT) are utilized to attain prescribed orientations of the formation at the final destination. The robustness of the control scheme is established by considering the effect noise on the formation, while the effectiveness of the proposed nonlinear control laws is demonstrated through computer simulations.
An Evaluation Method of Comprehensive Product Quality for Customer Satisfaction Based on Intuitionistic Fuzzy Number
Authors: Xu Wei , Yu Yinyun , Zhang Qingshan
Published: February 2018

How to maximize customer satisfaction is an important research topic in the service quality evaluation. This paper proposes an evaluation method of comprehensive product quality for customer satisfaction based on the intuitionistic fuzzy number. In this method, we design a questionnaire and investigate the customer’s language evaluation information of product quality evaluation, including product expectations and product perception at first. And then, the product quality evaluation model is obtained by Delphi method; that is, the first-level evaluation indexes and the second-level evaluation indexes are obtained and the weight vector of each evaluation index is determined. Next, language evaluation information translates into corresponding fuzzy numbers using intuitionistic fuzzy numbers. Therefore, the results of the product quality evaluation of the production system are obtained using the weighted mean method. Finally, an example is used to illustrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Heat Transfer in MHD Flow due to a Linearly Stretching Sheet with Induced Magnetic Field
Authors: El-Mistikawy Tarek M. A.
Published: February 2018

The traditionally ignored physical processes of viscous dissipation, Joule heating, streamwise heat diffusion, and work shear are assessed and their importance is established. The study is performed for the MHD flow due to a linearly stretching sheet with induced magnetic field. Cases of prescribed surface temperature, heat flux, surface feed (injection or suction), velocity slip, and thermal slip are considered. Sample numerical solutions are obtained for the chosen combinations of the flow parameters.
Effects of Propranolol on Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Patients with Infantile Hemangioma: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Wang Chuan , Wang Qi , Xiang Bo , Chen Siyuan , Xiong Fei , Ji Yi
Published: February 2018

Background. The aim of this study was to examine whether oral propranolol has any effect on neurodevelopment outcomes in young children with problematic infantile hemangiomas (IHs).Methods.Thirty-six children with a diagnosis of problematic IH who were treated with oral propranolol were compared with 34 healthy children with no history of propranolol therapy. Patients received propranolol therapy for at least 3 months. Gesell developmental schedules (GDS) were used to evaluate neurodevelopment outcomes in the two groups. The scores of each GDS domain were compared between the two groups.Results.There were no significant differences in developmental quotient (DQ) values for any of the five domains between the patients and healthy controls(P<0.05). Multiple stepwise regression analyses showed that none of the domains in the control group were influenced by the children’s gender or age(P<0.05). In addition, we found that gender, age at the initiation of therapy, age at the time of the neurodevelopment test, and treatment duration had no effect on any domain of the GDS in the patient group(P>0.05).Conclusion.Propranolol has no obvious effect on neurodevelopmental outcomes in children. Early treatment and treatment duration had no negative effect on central nervous system (CNS) development.
Influence of Lithium Carbonate on C3A Hydration
Authors: Han Weiwei , Sun Tao , Li Xinping , Shui Zhonghe , Chen Youzhi , Sun Mian
Published: February 2018

Lithium salts, known to ameliorate the effects of alkali‐silica reaction, can make significant effects on cement setting. However, the mechanism of effects on cement hydration, especially the hydration of C3A which is critical for initial setting time of cement, is rarely reported. In this study, the development of pH value of pore solution, conductivity, thermodynamics, and mineralogical composition during hydration of C3A with or without Li2CO3 are investigated. The results demonstrate that Li2CO3 promotes C3A hydration through high alkalinity, due to higher activity of lithium ion than that of calcium ion in the solution and carbonation of C3A hydration products resulted from Li2CO3. Li2CO3 favors the C3A hydration in C3A‐CaSO4·2H2O‐Ca(OH)2‐H2O hydration system and affects the mineralogical variation of the ettringite phase(s).
Diet-Induced Abdominal Obesity, Metabolic Changes, and Atherosclerosis in Hypercholesterolemic Minipigs
Authors: Al-Mashhadi Ahmed Ludvigsen , Poulsen Christian Bo , von Wachenfeldt Karin , Robertson Anna-Karin , Bentzon Jacob Fog , Nielsen Lars Bo , Thygesen Jesper , Tolbod Lars Poulsen , Larsen Jens Rolighed , Moestrup Søren Kragh , Frendéus Björn , Mortensen Brynjulf , Drouet Ludovic , Al-Mashhadi Rozh H. , Falk Erling
Published: February 2018

Background. Obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are major risk factors for atherosclerotic diseases; however, a causal link remains elusive. Animal models resembling human MetS and its complications, while important, are scarce. We aimed at developing a porcine model of human MetS. Methods. Forty pigs with familial hypercholesterolemia were fed a high fat + fructose diet for 30 weeks. Metabolic assessments and subcutaneous fat biopsies were obtained at 18 and 30 weeks, and fat distribution was assessed by CT-scans. Postmortem, macrophage density, and phenotype in fat tissues were quantified along with atherosclerotic burden. Results. During the experiment, we observed a >4-fold in body weight, a significant but small increase in fasting glucose (4.1 mmol/L), insulin (3.1 mU/L), triglycerides (0.5 mmol/L), and HDL cholesterol (2.6 mmol/L). Subcutaneous fat correlated with insulin resistance, but intra-abdominal fat correlated inversely with insulin resistance and LDL cholesterol. More inflammatory macrophages were found in visceral versus subcutaneous fat, and inflammation decreased in subcutaneous fat over time. Conclusions. MetS based on human criteria was not achieved. Surprisingly, visceral fat seemed part of a healthier metabolic and inflammatory profile. These results differ from human findings, and further research is needed to understand the relationship between obesity and MetS in porcine models.
Multiple Exciton Generation in Nanostructures for Advanced Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Siemons Nicholas , Serafini Alessio
Published: February 2018

This paper reviews both experimental and theoretical work on nanostructures showing high quantum yields due to the phenomenon of multiple exciton generation. It outlines the aims and barriers to progress in identifying further such nanostructures and also includes important developments concerning solar devices where nanostructures act as the light-absorbing component. It reports on both semiconductor and carbon structures, both monocomposite (of various dimensionalities) and heterogeneous. Finally, it looks at future directions that can be taken to push solar cell efficiency above the classic limit set by Shockley and Queisser in 1961.
Application of Grey Theory in the Construction of Impact Criteria and Prediction Model of Players’ Salary Structure
Authors: Chuang Chung-Chu , Chen Tien-Tze , Chen Chih-Cheng
Published: February 2018

Salaries of professional players are usually determined prior to the execution of the responsibilities assigned by the organizations and are often based on the expected future performance of these players as derived from their past achievement. The study first identifies criteria that would affect players’ salaries through literature reviews and then utilizes grey relational analysis (GRA) and grey prediction model to calculate weights of salary impact criteria, players’ annual performance index, and salary prediction for the coming year. The performance data of players from the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) are used in this study. The results are as follows: (i) CPBL teams do refer to players’ past performance records and future performance prediction when deciding on their salaries and (ii) future performance prediction must be made using at least a 3-year data set. The proposed prediction model is able to effectively provide relevant and useful information to the CPBL teams’ management during players’ salary adjustment.
Space-Time Hybrid Model for Short-Time Travel Speed Prediction
Authors: Fan Qi , Wang Wei , Hu Xiaojian , Hua Xuedong , Liu Zhuyun
Published: February 2018

Short-time traffic speed forecasting is a significant issue for developing Intelligent Transportation Systems applications, and accurate speed forecasting results are necessary inputs for Intelligent Traffic Security Information System (ITSIS) and advanced traffic management systems (ATMS). This paper presents a hybrid model for travel speed based on temporal and spatial characteristics analysis and data fusion. This proposed methodology predicts speed by dividing the data into three parts: a periodic trend estimated by Fourier series, a residual part modeled by the ARIMA model, and the possible events affected by upstream or downstream traffic conditions. The aim of this study is to improve the accuracy of the prediction by modeling time and space variation of speed, and the forecast results could simultaneously reflect the periodic variation of traffic speed and emergencies. This information could provide decision-makers with a basis for developing traffic management measures. To achieve the research objective, one year of speed data was collected in Twin Cities Metro, Minnesota. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can be used to explore the periodic characteristics of speed data and show abilities in increasing the accuracy of travel speed prediction.
Design and Modeling of the Photonic Crystal Waveguide Structure for Heat‐Assisted Magnetic Recording
Authors: Watcharakitchakorn Orrathai , Silapunt Rardchawadee
Published: February 2018

The application of the photonic crystal (PC) waveguide (WG) as the light delivery system in the heat‐assisted magnetic recording (HAMR) system is demonstrated. The structure consists of a 90° bending PC waveguide and a ridge dielectric waveguide taper coupler. Three‐dimensional (3D) models of structures are built and simulated in order to determine light coupling and transmission efficiencies. Geometric parameters including the taper length (LTP), coupler inlet width (WFW), and PC waveguide width (WWG) are investigated. The initial simulation shows that the transmission efficiency of over 90% can be achieved with the coupler integrated with the straight PC waveguide. However, the overall transmission efficiency is substantially reduced to 53.8% when the coupler is attached to the 90° bending PC waveguide. Our analysis shows that the wave mode matching and light decay rate in the waveguide cavity are significant contributing factors. The transmission efficiency increases to around 60.8% after some modification of the bending region.
A Quad-Element UWB-MIMO Antenna with Band-Notch and Reduced Mutual Coupling Based on EBG Structures
Authors: Wu Wenjing , Yuan Bo , Wu Aiting
Published: February 2018

A compact planar quad-element ultrawideband (UWB) antenna with a band-notch and low coupling for multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) system is proposed in this paper. The antenna consists of four circular monopoles with modified defected ground plane and a periodic electromagnetic band gap (EBG) structures. The proposed EBG structures are modified from the traditional mushroom-like ones, comprised of patterns of grids on the top patch, the metallic ground plane, and several vias that connect the top and bottom plane. It is printed at the center of the dielectric substrate to lower electromagnetic coupling between the parallel elements. Besides, by etching four crescent ring-shaped resonant slots on the radiators, a sharp band-notched characteristic is achieved. From the experimental results, the −10 dB bandwidth of the antenna is extended covers from 3.0 to 16.2 GHz, with a sharp notched band at 4.6 GHz. And the isolation is greater than 17.5 dB between its elements, with a peak gain of 8.4 dB and a peak efficiency of 91.2%. Moreover, it has a compact size of 0.6λ×0.6λ×0.016λ at 3 GHz and could be a good candidate for portable devices.
Diffraction Loss Prediction of Multiple Edges Using Bullington Method with Neural Network in Mountainous Areas
Authors: Lee Changwon , Park Sungkwon
Published: February 2018

This paper proposes a neural network approach to improve the Bullington method by using parameters obtained from ignored obstacles in mountainous areas. Measurements were performed in mountainous areas to compare the prediction accuracy of propagation loss. And the measured data were used for neural network training. A detailed description of the input parameters of the proposed neural network is presented. The prediction performances were improved by up to 3.20 dB in the average error and 2.11 dB in the standard deviation of errors by the proposed method when compared to traditional diffraction methods.
Giant Right Atrial Aneurysm Accompanying Intrahepatic Cholestasis
Authors: Sulu Ayse , Baspinar Osman , Kervancıoglu Selim , Hizli Samil
Published: February 2018

Right atrial aneurysms were first described in 1955, and subsequently, only a few cases have been reported. The etiology of this condition is unknown. Its comorbidity with cholestasis has not previously been reported in the literature. An 11-month-old baby female, who was an offspring from a first-cousin marriage, was referred to our hospital for investigation of jaundice. She underwent echocardiography because of a heart murmur, and this revealed a giant right atrial aneurysm. In addition, her liver biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) type 3. Although both conditions are rare, we found their comorbidity interesting and are thus reporting the case.
Fisetin Confers Cardioprotection against Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury by Suppressing Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Inhibiting Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3β Activity
Authors: Shanmugam Karthi , Ravindran Sriram , Kurian Gino A. , Rajesh Mohanraj
Published: February 2018

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Timely reperfusion is considered an optimal treatment for AMI. Paradoxically, the procedure of reperfusion can itself cause myocardial tissue injury. Therefore, a strategy to minimize the reperfusion‐induced myocardial tissue injury is vital for salvaging the healthy myocardium. Herein, we investigated the cardioprotective effects of fisetin, a natural flavonoid, against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury (IRI) using a Langendorff isolated heart perfusion system. I/R produced significant myocardial tissue injury, which was characterized by elevated levels of lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase in the perfusate and decreased indices of hemodynamic parameters. Furthermore, I/R resulted in elevated oxidative stress, uncoupling of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, increased mitochondrial swelling, a decrease of the mitochondrial membrane potential, and induction of apoptosis. Moreover, IRI was associated with a loss of the mitochondrial structure and decreased mitochondrial biogenesis. However, when the animals were pretreated with fisetin, it significantly attenuated the I/R‐induced myocardial tissue injury, blunted the oxidative stress, and restored the structure and function of mitochondria. Mechanistically, the fisetin effects were found to be mediated via inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β), which was confirmed by a biochemical assay and molecular docking studies.
A Novel Indoor Mobile Localization System Based on Optical Camera Communication
Authors: Hossan Md. Tanvir , Chowdhury Mostafa Zaman , Islam Amirul , Jang Yeong Min
Published: February 2018

Localizing smartphones in indoor environments offers excellent opportunities for e‐commence. In this paper, we propose a localization technique for smartphones in indoor environments. This technique can calculate the coordinates of a smartphone using existing illumination infrastructure with light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). The system can locate smartphones without further modification of the existing LED light infrastructure. Smartphones do not have fixed position and they may move frequently anywhere in an environment. Our algorithm uses multiple (i.e., more than two) LED lights simultaneously. The smartphone gets the LED‐IDs from the LED lights that are within the field of view (FOV) of the smartphone’s camera. These LED‐IDs contain the coordinate information (e.g., x‐ and y‐coordinate) of the LED lights. Concurrently, the pixel area on the image sensor (IS) of projected image changes with the relative motion between the smartphone and each LED light which allows the algorithm to calculate the distance from the smartphone to that LED. At the end of this paper, we present simulated results for predicting the next possible location of the smartphone using Kalman filter to minimize the time delay for coordinate calculation. These simulated results demonstrate that the position resolution can be maintained within 10 cm.
An Automatic Bleeding Frame and Region Detection Scheme for Wireless Capsule Endoscopy Videos Based on Interplane Intensity Variation Profile in Normalized RGB Color Space
Authors: Kundu Amit Kumar , Fattah Shaikh Anowarul , Rizve Mamshad Nayeem
Published: February 2018

Wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) is an effective video technology to diagnose gastrointestinal (GI) disease, such as bleeding. In order to avoid conventional tedious and risky manual review process of long duration WCE videos, automatic bleeding detection schemes are getting importance. In this paper, to investigate bleeding, the analysis of WCE images is carried out in normalized RGB color space as human perception of bleeding is associated with different shades of red. In the proposed method, at first, from the WCE image frame, an efficient region of interest (ROI) is extracted based on interplane intensity variation profile in normalized RGB space. Next, from the extracted ROI, the variation in the normalized green plane is presented with the help of histogram. Features are extracted from the proposed normalized green plane histograms. For classification purpose, the K-nearest neighbors classifier is employed. Moreover, bleeding zones in a bleeding image are extracted utilizing some morphological operations. For performance evaluation, 2300 WCE images obtained from 30 publicly available WCE videos are used in a tenfold cross-validation scheme and the proposed method outperforms the reported four existing methods having an accuracy of 97.86%, a sensitivity of 95.20%, and a specificity of 98.32%.