bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Foam Rolling Velocity on Knee Range of Motion and Tissue Stiffness: A Randomized, Controlled Crossover Trial
Authors: Wilke Jan , Niemeyer Philipp , Niederer Daniel , Schleip Robert , Banzer Winfried
Published: June 2018

Context: Foam rolling (FR) increases joint range of motion (RoM), but the optimal training parameters are unknown. Objective: To investigate the effect of FR velocity on RoM and tissue stiffness. Design: Randomized, controlled crossover trial. Setting: University. Participants: A total of 17 healthy, physically active adults (10 females; 25 [2] y). Interventions: (1) Four 45-second high-velocity FR of the anterior thigh (FAST-FR), (2) four 45-second slow-velocity FR of the anterior thigh (SLOW-FR), and (3) inactive control. Outcome Measures: Maximal knee-flexion RoM (ultrasonic movement analysis) and anterior thigh tissue stiffness (semielectronic tissue compliance meter) assessed pre, immediately post (T0), as well as 5 (T5) and 10 (T10) minutes postintervention. Statistical analysis included Friedman tests with adjusted post hoc comparisons (Wilcoxon tests). Results: According to omnibus testing, RoM remained unchanged in all 3 conditions and at all time points (P > .05), while differences were found for tissue stiffness (P < .05). Post hoc tests revealed significant decreases following FAST-FR (T5: −17%, T10: −24%; P < .05) and SLOW-FR (T10: −15%; P < .05). The observed stiffness changes were significant in comparison with control (P < .01), but no difference was found between the 2 FR conditions (P > .05). Conclusions: FR of the anterior thigh decreases myofascial stiffness regardless of velocity. The lack of effects on RoM contrasts findings of recent literature and warrants further investigation.
In Nigeria, a battle against plagiarism heats up
Authors: Nordling Linda
Published: June 2018

Young researchers champion good conduct and push for offenders to be punished
Newborn screening urged for fatal neurological disorder
Authors: Wadman Meredith
Published: June 2018

Decision on spinal muscular atrophy due next week
Prevalence-induced concept change in human judgment
Authors: Levari David E. , Gilbert Daniel T. , Wilson Timothy D. , Sievers Beau , Amodio David M. , Wheatley Thalia
Published: June 2018

Perceptual and judgment creep

Do we think that a problem persists even when it has become less frequent? Levari
et al.
show experimentally that when the “signal” a person is searching for becomes rare, the person naturally responds by broadening his or her definition of the signal—and therefore continues to find it even when it is not there. From low-level perception of color to higher-level judgments of ethics, there is a robust tendency for perceptual and judgmental standards to “creep” when they ought not to. For example, when blue dots become rare, participants start calling purple dots blue, and when threatening faces become rare, participants start calling neutral faces threatening. This phenomenon has broad implications that may help explain why people whose job is to find and eliminate problems in the world often cannot tell when their work is done.

Science
, this issue p.
1465
Structural basis for the recognition of Sonic Hedgehog by human Patched1
Authors: Gong Xin , Qian Hongwu , Cao Pingping , Zhao Xin , Zhou Qiang , Lei Jianlin , Yan Nieng
Published: June 2018

The first step in Hedgehog signaling

The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is important in embryogenesis; overactivation is associated with cancer. Central to the pathway is the membrane receptor Patched 1 (Ptch1), which indirectly inhibits a G protein–coupled receptor called Smoothened. This inhibition is relieved when Ptch1 binds the secreted protein Hh. Gong
et al.
report the cryo–electron microscopy structures of human Ptch1 alone and in complex with its Hh ligand at 3.9 and 3.6 Å, respectively. Both structures include two steroid-shaped densities, and mutational analysis indicates that the interaction between Ptch1 and Hh is steroid-dependent.

Science
, this issue p.
eaas8935
Net-zero emissions energy systems
Authors: Davis Steven J. , Lewis Nathan S. , Shaner Matthew , Aggarwal Sonia , Arent Doug , Azevedo Inês L. , Benson Sally M. , Bradley Thomas , Brouwer Jack , Chiang Yet-Ming , Clack Christopher T. M. , Cohen Armond , Doig Stephen , Edmonds Jae , Fennell Paul , Field Christopher B. , Hannegan Bryan , Hodge Bri-Mathias , Hoffert Martin I. , Ingersoll Eric , Jaramillo Paulina , Lackner Klaus S. , Mach Katharine J. , Mastrandrea Michael , Ogden Joan , Peterson Per F. , Sanchez Daniel L. , Sperling Daniel , Stagner Joseph , Trancik Jessika E. , Yang Chi-Jen , Caldeira Ken
Published: June 2018

Path to zero carbon emissions

Models show that to avert dangerous levels of climate change, global carbon dioxide emissions must fall to zero later this century. Most of these emissions arise from energy use. Davis
et al.
review what it would take to achieve decarbonization of the energy system. Some parts of the energy system are particularly difficult to decarbonize, including aviation, long-distance transport, steel and cement production, and provision of a reliable electricity supply. Current technologies and pathways show promise, but integration of now-discrete energy sectors and industrial processes is vital to achieve minimal emissions.

Science
, this issue p.
eaas9793
The plateau of human mortality: Demography of longevity pioneers
Authors: Barbi Elisabetta , Lagona Francesco , Marsili Marco , Vaupel James W. , Wachter Kenneth W.
Published: June 2018

Mortality rates level off at extreme age

The demography of human longevity is a contentious topic. On the basis of high-quality data from Italians aged 105 and older, Barbi
et al.
show that mortality is constant at extreme ages but at levels that decline somewhat across cohorts. Human death rates increase exponentially up to about age 80, then decelerate, and plateau after age 105.

Science
, this issue p.
1459
Carbonyl catalysis enables a biomimetic asymmetric Mannich reaction
Authors: Chen Jianfeng , Gong Xing , Li Jianyu , Li Yingkun , Ma Jiguo , Hou Chengkang , Zhao Guoqing , Yuan Weicheng , Zhao Baoguo
Published: June 2018

Inspiration from a vitamin

Organic synthesis of molecules with defined stereochemistry requires a chiral center, which in turn may involve a chiral catalyst. Chen
et al.
developed an organic catalyst, modeled on vitamin B6, which contains an electron-withdrawing pyridine ring adjacent to an aldehyde group. This catalyst works like the vitamin by reacting with an amine, a derivative of the amino acid glycine, to create an activated species. An appendage on the catalyst coordinates the subsequent reactions, allowing for stereoselective formation of a product with two adjacent amines.

Science
, this issue p.
1438
Getting it right on GMOs
Seeds of Science: Why We Got It So Wrong on GMOs
Mark Lynas
Bloomsbury Sigma, 2018. 304 pp.
Authors: Dinneny José R.
Published: June 2018

A protester's change of heart sheds light on the public's reservations about genetic engineering
When the cure kills—CBD limits biodiversity research
Authors: Prathapan K. Divakaran , Pethiyagoda Rohan , Bawa Kamaljit S. , Raven Peter H. , Rajan Priyadarsanan Dharma ,   172 co-signatories from 35 countries
Published: June 2018

National laws fearing biopiracy squelch taxonomy studies
Macrophages stimulate mammary stem cells
Authors: Kannan Nagarajan , Eaves Connie J.
Published: June 2018

Macrophages help mediate hormone-controlled changes in the mouse mammary gland
Rapid Detection of Carbapenemase Production Directly from Blood Culture by Colorimetric Methods: Evaluation in a Routine Microbiology Laboratory
Authors: Lima-Morales Daiana de , Ávila Helena , Soldi Tatiana , Dalmolin Tanise Vendruscolo , Lutz Larissa , Aquino Valério , Zavascki Alexandre Prehn , Barth Afonso Luís
Published: June 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the two rapid colorimetric methods (CNPt-Direct and Blue-Carba) for the detection of carbapenemase production directly from blood culture in a routine microbiology laboratory. The methods were initially evaluated on spiked blood cultures with 61 carbapenemase-positive isolates.
Mismatch Amplification Mutation Assay-Based Real-Time PCR for Rapid Detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Antimicrobial Resistance Determinants in Clinical Specimens
Authors: Donà Valentina , Smid Joost H. , Kasraian Sara , Egli-Gany Dianne , Dost Ferah , Imeri Fatime , Unemo Magnus , Low Nicola , Endimiani Andrea
Published: June 2018

Molecular methods are often used for
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
detection, but complete definition of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns still requires phenotypic tests. We developed an assay that both identifies
N. gonorrhoeae
and detects AMR determinants in clinical specimens.
Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus V2 Interacts with Host Histone Deacetylase 6 To Suppress Methylation-Mediated Transcriptional Gene Silencing in Plants
Authors: Wang Bi , Yang Xiuling , Wang Yaqin , Xie Yan , Zhou Xueping
Published: June 2018

Plants employ repressive viral genome methylation as an epigenetic defense against geminiviruses. In turn, geminiviruses encode proteins that inhibit methylation by TGS. Previous studies showed that TYLCV V2 can efficiently suppress TGS, but the mechanism remains unknown. We showed that V2 interacted with NbHDA6 but did not inhibit its enzymatic activity. As HDA6 is known to be involved in gene silencing in cooperation with MET1, we explored the relationship between V2, NbMET1, and NbHDA6. Our investigation showed that V2 did not interact but competed with NbMET1 for direct binding to NbHDA6. To our knowledge, this is the first report that viral proteins inhibit TGS by interacting with histone deacetylase but not by blocking the methyl cycle. This work provides an additional mechanism for TGS suppression by geminiviruses.
Gallid Herpesvirus 1 Initiates Apoptosis in Uninfected Cells through Paracrine Repression of p53
Authors: Li Hai , Gao Qi , Shao Yuhao , Sun Bangyao , Wang Fengjie , Qiao Yangyang , Wang Nana , Liu Shengwang
Published: June 2018

It is well accepted that herpesviruses suppress the apoptosis of host cells via various strategies to ensure sustained viral replication during infection. However, a recentin vivostudy reported the apoptosis of remote uninfected cells during GaHV-1 infection. The mechanism and the biological meaning of this unexpected herpesvirus-host interaction are unclear. This study uncovers the mechanisms of herpesvirus-triggered apoptosis in uninfected cells and may also contribute to a mechanistic illustration of paracrine-regulated apoptosis induced by other viruses in uninfected host cells.
Squamous cell carcinoma in the anophthalmic socket: a series of four cases with HPV-16 profiling
Authors: McGrath Lindsay A , Salvi Sachin Madhusudan , Sandramouli Soupramanien , Bhatt Rina , Cuschieri Kate , Mudhar Hardeep Singh
Published: June 2018

Purpose

To present the clinical and histological features of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in the anophthalmic socket in four adult patients, and to determine the presence of human papillomavirus infection (HPV).

Methods

Retrospective case series of four adult patients with SCC of the anophthalmic socket. P16 immunohistochemistry and HPV testing was carried out in all cases. The authors report clinical findings, histopathology, management and outcomes for all four patients with conjunctival SCC. Previously reported cases of conjunctival SCC in anophthalmic sockets were reviewed.

Results

Four adult patients presented with eyelid lumps, discharge or change in prosthesis fit. Common examination findings included papillomatous changes, eyelid masses and epithelial changes. Three out of the four cases (75%) were positive for p16 by immunohistochemistry and the same cases positive for HPV-16 DNA. All patients received cryotherapy, topical or intralesional chemotherapy. Two patients proceeded to exenteration for control of invasive disease.

Conclusions

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the largest series of SCC in the anophthalmic socket with comprehensive annotation of HPV status. Although socket conjunctiva is protected from environmental radiation, there is still a risk of neoplastic transformation in this tissue, thus patient education and regular checking of sockets by ophthalmologists should be undertaken as a preventative measure. The potential role of HPV in these tumours warrants further investigation.
Speaking up about patient safety concerns: the influence of safety management approaches and climate on nurses’ willingness to speak up
Authors: Alingh Carien W , van Wijngaarden Jeroen D H , van de Voorde Karina , Paauwe Jaap , Huijsman Robbert
Published: June 2018

Background

Speaking up is important for patient safety, but healthcare professionals often hesitate to voice their concerns. Direct supervisors have an important role in influencing speaking up. However, good insight into the relationship between managers’ behaviour and employees’ perceptions about whether speaking up is safe and worthwhile is still lacking.

Aim

To explore the relationships between control-based and commitment-based safety management, climate for safety, psychological safety and nurses’ willingness to speak up.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey study, resulting in a sample of 980 nurses and 93 nurse managers working in Dutch clinical hospital wards. To test our hypotheses, hierarchical regression analyses (at ward level) and multilevel regression analyses were conducted.

Results

Significantly positive associations were found between nurses’ perceptions of control-based safety management and climate for safety (β=0.74; p<0.001), and between the perceived levels of commitment-based management and team psychological safety (β=0.36; p<0.01). Furthermore, team psychological safety is found to be positively related to nurses’ speaking up attitudes (B=0.24; t=2.04; p<0.05). The relationship between nurse-rated commitment-based safety management and nurses’ willingness to speak up is fully mediated by team psychological safety.

Conclusion

Results provide initial support that nurses who perceive higher levels of commitment-based safety management feel safer to take interpersonal risks and are more willing to speak up about patient safety concerns. Furthermore, nurses’ perceptions of control-based safety management are found to be positively related to a climate for safety, although no association was found with speaking up. Both control-based and commitment-based management approaches seem to be relevant for managing patient safety, but when it comes to encouraging speaking up, a commitment-based safety management approach seems to be most valuable.
How important is social support in determining patients’ suitability for transplantation? Results from a National Survey of Transplant Clinicians
Authors: Ladin Keren , Emerson Joanna , Butt Zeeshan , Gordon Elisa J , Hanto Douglas W , Perloff Jennifer , Daniels Norman , Lavelle Tara A
Published: June 2018

Background

National guidelines require programmes use subjective assessments of social support when determining transplant suitability, despite limited evidence linking it to outcomes. We examined how transplant providers weigh the importance of social support for kidney transplantation compared with other factors, and variation by clinical role and personal beliefs.

Methods

The National survey of the American Society of Transplant Surgeons and the Society of Transplant Social Work in 2016. Using a discrete choice approach, respondents compared two hypothetical patient profiles and selected one for transplantation. Conditional logistic regression estimated the relative importance of each factor; results were stratified by clinical role (psychosocial vs medical/surgical providers) and beliefs (outcomes vs equity).

Results

Five hundred and eighy-four transplant providers completed the survey. Social support was the second most influential factor among transplant providers. Providers were most likely to choose a candidate who had social support (OR=1.68, 95% CI 1.50 to 1.86), always adhered to a medical regimen (OR=1.64, 95% CI 1.46 to 1.88), and had a 15 years life expectancy with transplant (OR=1.61, 95% CI 1.42 to 1.85). Psychosocial providers were more influenced by adherence and quality of life compared with medical/surgical providers, who were more influenced by candidates' life expectancy with transplant (p<0.05). For providers concerned with avoiding organ waste, social support was the most influential factor, while it was the least influential for clinicians concerned with fairness (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Social support is highly influential in listing decisions and may exacerbate transplant disparities. Providers’ beliefs and reliance on social support in determining suitability vary considerably, raising concerns about transparency and justice.
Culturally shared metaphors expand contemporary concepts of resilience and post-traumatic growth: contrasting an indigenous Brazilian community and a Swiss rural community
Authors: Meili Iara , Heim Eva , Maercker Andreas
Published: June 2018

The metaphorical conceptsresilienceandpost-traumatic growth(PTG) reflect the contemporary Western understanding of overcoming highly challenging life events. However, it is known that across different cultures, a broad range of metaphorical idioms for describing adaptive responses to severe adversity exists. This study aimed to explore and contrast two distinct cultural groups’ culturally shared metaphors for overcoming severe adversities. Fieldwork was conducted in two rural communities: an indigenous Brazilian community that has experienced severe collective adversity and a mountain village in Switzerland that has survived a natural disaster. We carried out separate qualitative metaphor analyses of semistructured interview data from each community. There were some similarities in the metaphorical narratives of the two cultural groups, for example, in metaphors ofbalance,changed perspective,collective cohesionandlife as a journey. The main variations were found in metaphors ofmagical thinking,equilibriumandorganic transformationused by the Brazilian group and metaphors ofwork,orderandmaterial transformationused by the Swiss group. Results from this study suggest that the Western-devised concepts of resilience and PTG can be further expanded, which is highlighted by the variety of culturally shared metaphors. Metaphorical idioms for overcoming severe adversity may be determined by the type of trauma as well as by the sociocultural and historical context. Our findings indicate potential approaches to the cultural adaptation of psychological interventions.
Influence of environmental conditions, population density, and prey type on the lipid content in Baltic herring (Clupea harengus membras) from the northern Baltic Sea
Authors: Rajasilta Marjut , Hänninen Jari , Laaksonen Lea , Laine Päivi , Suomela Jukka-Pekka , Vuorinen Ilppo , Mäkinen Katja
Published: June 2018

Global climate change can affect the energy content of fish by altering their lipid physiology and consumption. We investigated the effects of different environmental stressors on the lipid content of the Baltic herring (Clupea harengus membras) from spawning ground samples that were collected annually in the northern Baltic Sea. During 1987–2014, the average lipid content of herring muscle decreased from 5%–6% (wet mass) to 1.5% (wet mass). Generalized linear mixed models indicated that sea water salinity and the size of the herring stock explained best the declining trend of lipid content. We estimated that the amount of the lipid storage incorporated in the spawning stock decreased by approximately 45% during the study, with respective energy content decreases. Fatty acid composition analysis revealed that herring lipids contained a high proportion of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid; 20:5n-3) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid; 22:6n-3), which likely originated from its main summertime prey, Limnocalanus macrurus. The results illustrate various climate change-induced processes leading to changes in the lipid content of the Baltic herring and, consequently, to changes in the energy flows of the northern Baltic ecosystem.
Scientists on Twitter: Preaching to the choir or singing from the rooftops?
Authors: Côté Isabelle M. , Darling Emily S.
Published: June 2018

There have been strong calls for scientists to share their discoveries with society. Some scientists have heeded these calls through social media platforms such as Twitter. Here, we ask whether Twitter allows scientists to promote their findings primarily to other scientists (“inreach”), or whether it can help them reach broader, non-scientific audiences (“outreach”). We analyzed the Twitter followers of more than 100 faculty members in ecology and evolutionary biology and found that their followers are, on average, predominantly (∼55%) other scientists. However, beyond a threshold of ∼1000 followers, the range of follower types became more diverse and included research and educational organizations, media, members of the public with no stated association with science, and a small number of decision-makers. This varied audience was, in turn, followed by more people, resulting in an exponential increase in the social media reach of tweeting academic scientists. Tweeting, therefore, has the potential to disseminate scientific information widely after initial efforts to gain followers. These results should encourage scientists to invest in building a social media presence for scientific outreach.
Additively Manufactured Inkjet-/3D-/4D-Printed Wireless Sensors Modules
Authors: Adeyeye Ajibayo , Eid Aline , Hester Jimmy , Lin Tong-Hong , Nauroze Syed Abdullah , Tehrani Bijan , Tentzris Manos M.
Published: June 2018

This publication considers the use of a variety of additive manufacturing techniques in the development of wireless modules and sensors. The opportunities and advantages of these manufacturing techniques are explored from an application point of view. We discuss first the origami (4D-printed) structures which take advantage of the ability to alter the shape of the inkjet-printed conductive traces on the paper substrate to produce a reconfigurable behavior. Next, focus is shifted towards the use of additive manufacturing technology to develop skin-like flexible electrical system for wireless sensing applications. We then discuss the development of a fully flexible energy autonomous body area network for autonomous sensing applications, the system is fabricated using 3D and inkjet printing techniques. Finally, an integration of inkjet and 3D printing for the realization of efficient mm-wave 3D interconnects up to 60GHz is discussed.
Exploring the Complexity of Layout Parameters in Tournaments and Semicomplete Digraphs
Authors: Barbero Florian , Paul Christophe , Pilipczuk MichaŁ
Published: June 2018

A simple digraph is
semicomplete
if for any two of its vertices
u
and
v
, at least one of the arcs (
u
,
v
) and (
v
,
u
) is present. We study the complexity of computing two layout parameters of semicomplete digraphs: cutwidth and optimal linear arrangement (O
la
). We prove the following:

• Both parameters are NP-hard to compute and the known exact and parameterized algorithms for them have essentially optimal running times, assuming the Exponential Time Hypothesis.

• The cutwidth parameter admits a quadratic Turing kernel, whereas it does not admit any polynomial kernel unless NP ⊆ coNP/poly. By contrast, O
la
admits a linear kernel.

These results essentially complete the complexity analysis of computing cutwidth and O
la
on semicomplete digraphs (with respect to standard parameters). Our techniques also can be used to analyze the sizes of minimal obstructions for having a small cutwidth under the induced subdigraph relation.
Thermal-Sensor-Based Occupancy Detection for Smart Buildings Using Machine-Learning Methods
Authors: Zhao Hengyang , Hua Qi , Chen Hai-Bao , Ye Yaoyao , Wang Hai , Tan Sheldon X.-D. , Tlelo-Cuautle Esteban
Published: June 2018

In this article, we propose a novel approach to detect the occupancy behavior of a building through the temperature and/or possible heat source information. The new method can be used for energy reduction and security monitoring for emerging smart buildings. Our work is based on a building simulation program, EnergyPlus, from the Department of Energy. EnergyPlus can model various time-series inputs to a building such as ambient temperature; heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) inputs; power consumption of electronic equipment; lighting; and number of occupants in a room, sampled each hour, and produce resulting temperature traces of zones (rooms). Two machine-learning-based approaches for detecting human occupancy of a smart building are applied herein, namely support vector regression (SVR) and recurrent neural network (RNN). Experimental results with SVR show that the four-feature model provides accurate detection rates, giving a 0.638 average error and 5.32% error rate, and the five-feature model delivers a 0.317 average error and 2.64% error rate. This indicates that SVR is a viable option for occupancy detection. In the RNN method, Elman’s RNN can estimate occupancy information of each room of a building with high accuracy. It has local feedback in each layer and, for a five-zone building, it is very accurate for occupancy behavior estimation. The error level, in terms of number of people, can be as low as 0.0056 on average and 0.288 at maximum, considering ambient, room temperatures, and HVAC powers as detectable information. Without knowing HVAC powers, the estimation error can still be 0.044 on average, and only 0.71% estimated points have errors greater than 0.5. Our article further shows that both methods deliver similar accuracy in the occupancy detection. But the SVR model is more stable for adding or removing features of the system, while the RNN method can deliver more accuracy when the features used in the model do not change a lot.
Identification of novel mRNAs and lncRNAs associated with mouse experimental colitis and human inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Rankin Carl Robert , Theodorou Evangelos , Man Law Ivy Ka , Rowe Lorraine , Kokkotou Efi , Pekow Joel , Wang Jiafang , Martín Martín G. , Pothoulakis Charalabos , Padua David
Published: June 2018

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a complex disorder that is associated with significant morbidity. While many recent advances have been made with new diagnostic and therapeutic tools, a deeper understanding of its basic pathophysiology is needed to continue this trend toward improving treatments. By utilizing an unbiased, high-throughput transcriptomic analysis of two well-established mouse models of colitis, we set out to uncover novel coding and noncoding RNAs that are differentially expressed in the setting of colonic inflammation. RNA-seq analysis was performed using colonic tissue from two mouse models of colitis, a dextran sodium sulfate-induced model and a genetic-induced model in mice lacking IL-10. We identified 81 coding RNAs that were commonly altered in both experimental models. Of these coding RNAs, 12 of the human orthologs were differentially expressed in a transcriptomic analysis of IBD patients. Interestingly, 5 of the 12 of human differentially expressed genes have not been previously identified as IBD-associated genes, including ubiquitin D. Our analysis also identified 15 noncoding RNAs that were differentially expressed in either mouse model. Surprisingly, only three noncoding RNAs were commonly dysregulated in both of these models. The discovery of these new coding and noncoding RNAs expands our transcriptional knowledge of mouse models of IBD and offers additional targets to deepen our understanding of the pathophysiology of IBD.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Much of the genome is transcribed as non-protein-coding RNAs; however, their role in inflammatory bowel disease is largely unknown. This study represents the first of its kind to analyze the expression of long noncoding RNAs in two mouse models of inflammatory bowel disease and correlate them to human clinical samples. Using high-throughput RNA-seq analysis, we identified new coding and noncoding RNAs that were differentially expressed such as ubiquitin D and 5730437C11Rik.
Iloprost attenuates hyperoxia-mediated impairment of lung development in newborn mice
Authors: Olave Nelida , Lal Charitharth Vivek , Halloran Brian , Bhandari Vineet , Ambalavanan Namasivayam
Published: June 2018

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2/PTGS2) mediates hyperoxia-induced impairment of lung development in newborn animals and is increased in the lungs of human infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). COX-2 catalyzes the production of cytoprotective prostaglandins, such as prostacyclin (PGI2), as well as proinflammatory mediators, such as thromboxane A2. Our objective was to determine whether iloprost, a synthetic analog of PGI2, would attenuate hyperoxia effects in the newborn mouse lung. To test this hypothesis, newborn C57BL/6 mice along with their dams were exposed to normoxia (21% O2) or hyperoxia (85% O2) from 4 to 14 days of age in combination with daily intraperitoneal injections of either iloprost 200 µg·kg−1·day−1, nimesulide (selective COX-2 antagonist) 100 mg·kg−1·day−1, or vehicle. Alveolar development was estimated by radial alveolar counts and mean linear intercepts. Lung function was determined on a flexiVent, and multiple cytokines and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were quantitated in lung homogenates. Lung vascular and microvascular morphometry was performed, and right ventricle/left ventricle ratios were determined. We determined that iloprost (but not nimesulide) administration attenuated hyperoxia-induced inhibition of alveolar development and microvascular density in newborn mice. Iloprost and nimesulide both attenuated hyperoxia-induced, increased lung resistance but did not improve lung compliance that was reduced by hyperoxia. Iloprost and nimesulide reduced hyperoxia-induced increases in MPO and some cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) but not others (IL-6 and KC/Gro). There were no changes in pulmonary arterial wall thickness or right ventricle/left ventricle ratios. We conclude that iloprost improves lung development and reduces lung inflammation in a newborn mouse model of BPD.
Severe Symptomatic Primary CMV Infection in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients with Low Population Seroprevalence
Authors: Rowan Catherine , Judge Ciaran , Cannon Mary D. , Cullen Garret , Mulcahy Hugh E. , Ryan Elizabeth , De Gascun Cillian F. , Doherty Glen A.
Published: June 2018

Background. Cytomegalovirus disease in patients with inflammatory bowel disease is frequently the result of viral reactivation. Conversely, primary CMV infection is believed to be uncommon in immunocompetent adults due to high population seroprevalence. Objectives. The aim of this study was to examine the frequency and severity of primary cytomegalovirus infection in an adult cohort of IBD patients. Study Design. A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of 3200 IBD patients attending a single academic centre was performed. Patients with primary CMV infection 2010–13 were identified; clinical, serologic, and virologic parameters were studied in detail. The seroprevalence of CMV in the patient population was also evaluated. Results. Eight patients with IBD (UC = 3, IBD-U = 1, CD = 4) presented with primary CMV infection. Patients presented with both gastrointestinal and extraintestinal symptoms. Mean age was 33 years, and median duration of disease was 72 months. All eight patients were receiving a thiopurine immunomodulator. Median duration of IM use was 144 weeks (range 7–720 weeks). All 8 patients required hospitalisation, with 1 ICU admission; the median length of hospital stay was 11 days (range 6–27). Infection resolved in all cases with withdrawal of immunomodulator and/or antiviral therapy. Seroprevalence of IgG to CMV, indicating prior exposure, in a subgroup of IBD patients (n=80) was 30.5% and increased with age. Conclusion. Primary cytomegalovirus infection can cause a severe illness in IBD patients, particularly those receiving immunosuppression. In areas where adult CMV seroprevalence is low, evidence of CMV should be sought in IBD patients presenting with any febrile systemic illness.
Alveolar Crestal Approach for Maxillary Sinus Membrane Elevation with <4 mm of Residual Bone Height: A Case Report
Authors: Jang Jae Won , Chang Hee-Yung , Pi Sung-Hee , Kim Yoon-Sang , You Hyung-Keun
Published: June 2018

Introduction. For maxillary sinus membrane elevation (MSME), the lateral window approach and crestal approach are available, and high success rates have been achieved with low residual bone height as a development of technology.Objective. To evaluate MSME using the crestal approach with a rotary-grind bur (RGB (including reamer or sinus bur)) in patients with residual bone height of <4 mm.Materials and Methods. Ten implants were placed in 10 patients with residual bone height of <4 mm, by sinus elevation using an RGB. The implant stability quotient (ISQ) was measured immediately after implant placement (ISQ 1) and before taking impression for the final prosthesis (ISQ 2). The extent of marginal bone loss was measured on periapical radiographs.Results. The mean residual bone height before implant placement was 3.41 ± 0.53 mm; no complications, including membrane perforation, severe postoperative pain, or discomfort, occurred either during or after surgery. The mean ISQ 1 was 63.4 ± 12.1, whereas the mean ISQ 2 was 77.6 ± 5.8. The mean marginal bone resorption was 0.23 ± 0.18 mm on periapical radiographs.Conclusions. MSME using the crestal approach with an RGB is a reliable technique for implant placement in sites where available bone is insufficient.
Network Scalability for Ultra‐Wideband Real‐Time Location Systems Based on vMISO
Authors: Gao Qian , Shen Chong , Zhang Kun
Published: June 2018

For time‐based location systems, a common time base is important for obtaining the correct position. However, wireless clock synchronization is considerably easier to deploy in certain environments, such as large areas. A single‐region positioning network is often restricted to the anchor communication range. Therefore, multiple master anchors form the basis of an extensible location network and provide an effective means of adapting the system to a complex propagation environment. In this article, we consider simultaneous network scalability with the relative clock synchronization and localization. We first establish an extendable UWB location system model through intelligent response across the routing layer and physical layer. Anchors act as master or slave anchors in different cluster areas and advance the clock check packet (CCP) from an initial region to the surrounding area to achieve clock synchronization of the entire network. The intracluster CCP transmission is achieved by broadcasting, and the intercluster CCP transmissions use vMISO and are automatically driven by the broadcast arrival time for better results. Furthermore, the physical‐access and clock synchronization algorithms are discussed. Finally, location tests combined with routing simulations are conducted to demonstrate the performance of the proposed scheme.
Dynamic Instability in Shallow Arches under Transversal Forces and Plane Frames with Semirigid Connections
Authors: Fernandes William Luiz , Vasconcellos Daniel Boy , Greco Marcelo
Published: June 2018

Structural engineering demands increasingly lighter systems, which can cause instability problems and compromise performance. A high slenderness index of a structural element makes it susceptible to instability. It is important to understand the problem, the limits of stability, and its postcritical behavior. An example that can occur in collapsed arches under a cross load is the dynamic snap-through behavior, where the structure in a given equilibrium condition jumps to a new remote equilibrium setting, causing usually sudden curvature. The semirigid connections are a source of physical nonlinearity and can influence the overall stability of the structural system, in addition to the distribution of stresses in the same system. Conventional approaches make use of static considerations. However, instability problems are inherently evolutionary processes, so a transient analysis is necessary for a complete description of structural behavior. The present work evaluates the geometrically nonlinear dynamic behavior of collapsed arches subjected to transverse force and plane frames with semirigid connections. The time domain responses, via Newmark's Method and positional formulation of the Finite Element Method, were obtained in terms of displacements, velocities, acceleration, and phase diagrams.
Parametric Investigation of Combustion and Heat Transfer Characteristics of Oscillating Linear Engine Alternator
Authors: Bade Mehar , Clark Nigel N. , Robinson Matthew C. , Famouri Parviz
Published: June 2018

An Oscillating Linear Engine Alternator (OLEA) has the potential to overcome the thermal, mechanical, and combustion inadequacies encountered by the conventional slider-crank engines. The linear engines convert the reciprocating piston motion into electricity, thereby eliminating needless crankshaft linkages and rotational motion. As the dead center positions are not explicitly identified unlike crankshaft engines, the linear engine exhibits different stroke and compression ratio every cycle and should manage the unfavorable events like misfire, rapid load changes, and overfueling without the energy storage of a flywheel. Further, the apparatus control and management strategy is difficult for OLEA when compared to conventional engines and depends on the combustion event influencing the translator dynamics. In this research paper, the MATLAB®/Simulink numerical model of a single cylinder, mechanical spring assisted, 2-stroke natural gas fueled, spark-ignited OLEA was investigated to enhance the perception of the coupled system. The effect of combustion and heat transfer characteristics on translator dynamics and performance of OLEA were analyzed by using Wiebe form factors, combustion duration, and heat transfer correlations. Variation in the Wiebe form factors revealed interesting insights into the translator dynamics and in-cylinder thermodynamics of a coupled system. High translator velocity, acceleration, and higher heat transfer rate were favored by low combustion duration.
Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. Decreases Oxidative Stress in Blood Cells and Prevents Doxorubicin‐Induced Cardiotoxicity
Authors: dos Santos Jéssica Maurino , Alfredo Tamaeh Monteiro , Antunes Katia Ávila , da Cunha Janielle da Silva Melo , Costa Edna Márcia Almeida , Lima Emerson Silva , Silva Denise Brentan , Carollo Carlos Alexandre , Schmitz Wanderlei Onofre , Boleti Ana Paula de Araújo , dos Santos Edson Lucas , de Picoli Souza Kely
Published: June 2018

Doxorubicin (DOX) is an efficient chemotherapeutic agent, but its clinical application is limited by its cardiotoxicity associated with increased oxidative stress. Thus, the combination of DOX and antioxidants has been encouraged. In this study, we evaluated (I) the chemical composition and antioxidant capacity of aqueous extracts from Guazuma ulmifolia stem bark (GUEsb) and leaves (GUEl) in 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging, 2,2 ′‐azobis(2‐amidinopropane) dihydrochloride‐ (AAPH‐) or DOX‐induced lipid peroxidation inhibition in human blood cells, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) quantification using the fluorescent probe dichloro‐dihydro‐fluorescein diacetate (DCFH‐DA) in K562 erythroleukemia cells incubated with GUEsb and stimulated with hydrogen peroxide; (II) the viability of K562 cells and human leukocytes treated with GUEsb in the absence or presence of DOX using the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay; (III) the acute toxicity of GUEsb; and (IV) the cardioprotective effect of GUEsb in C57Bl/6 mice treated with DOX. The chemical composition indicated the presence of flavan‐3‐ol derivatives and condensed tannins in GUEsb and glycosylated flavonoids in GUEl. GUEsb and GUEl showed free‐radical scavenging antioxidant activity, antihemolytic activity, and AAPH‐ as well as DOX‐induced malondialdehyde content reduction in human erythrocytes. Based on its higher antioxidant potential, GUEsb was selected and subsequently showed intracellular ROS reduction without impairing the chemotherapeutic activity of DOX in K562 cells or inducing leukocyte cell death, but protected them against DOX‐induced cell death. Yet, GUEsb did not show in vivo acute toxicity, and it prevented MDA generation in the cardiac tissue of DOX‐treated mice, thus demonstrating its cardioprotective effect. Taken together, the results show that GUEsb and GUEl are natural alternatives to treat diseases associated with oxidative stress and that, in particular, GUEsb may play an adjuvant role in DOX chemotherapy.
Qualitative Analysis of the Evolution Behaviors of Irradiation-Induced Point Defects
Authors: Huang Hao , Ding Shurong , Huo Yongzhong
Published: June 2018

Point defects created by the collisions of high-energy particles and their subsequent evolutions form the foundation for all observed irradiation effects. Qualitative analysis is performed for the local and global behaviors of the planar system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations for the point defects balance model. The results indicated that the evolution behavior for the in-pile process is qualitatively very similar to the more simple annealing process, but very different from the degenerated systems that possess analytical solutions. However, quantitatively, irradiations in the in-pile process will shift the stable node away from the defect free state and change the local behaviors. A too strong irradiation may result in a nonphysical stable node and produce amorphous states, thus making the model inadequate.
Optimal Fault-Tolerant Control against Descriptor Time-Varying Systems with Nonlinear Input
Authors: Su Xiaoming , Wang Jingyao , Shi Hongyan
Published: June 2018

The problem of optimal fault-tolerant control for a class of descriptor time-varying systems with nonlinear input is considered. Based on the Lyapunov stability theorem, the sufficient conditions of the stability are obtained when the system is normal and ineffective. Furthermore, the fault-tolerant control of the systems is carried out in two cases, and the state feedback fault-tolerant controller is obtained to satisfy the quadratic performance index and reach the minimum value in order to achieve the optimal fault-tolerant control. Finally, the validity of the proposed approach is illuminated by a numerical example.
The Global Existence and Uniqueness of the Classical Solution with the Periodic Initial Value Problem for One-Dimension Klein-Gordon-Zakharov Equations
Authors: Sun Cong , Li Lixia
Published: June 2018

Through applying Galerkin method, we establish the approximating solution for one-dimension Klein-Gordon-Zakharov equations and obtain the local classical solution. By applying integral estimates, we also obtain the existence and uniqueness of the global classical solution of Klein-Gordon-Zakharov equations.
Steady-State Resonant Sloshing in an Upright Cylindrical Container Performing a Circular Orbital Motion
Authors: Raynovskyy Ihor , Timokha Alexander
Published: June 2018

The nonlinear Narimanov-Moiseev multimodal equations are used to study the swirling-type resonant sloshing in a circular base container occurring due to an orbital (rotary) tank motion in the horizontal plane with the forcing frequency close to the lowest natural sloshing frequency. An asymptotic steady-state solution is constructed and the response amplitude curves are analyzed to prove their hard-spring type behavior for the finite liquid depth (the mean liquid depth-to-the-radius ratio h>1). This behavior type is supported by the existing experimental data. The wave elevations at the vertical wall are satisfactorily predicted except for a frequency range where the model test observations reported wave breaking and/or mean rotational flows.
Corneal Cap Thickness and Its Effect on Visual Acuity and Corneal Biomechanics in Eyes Undergoing Small Incision Lenticule Extraction
Authors: Liu Ting , Yu Ting , Liu Lina , Chen Kaijian , Bai Ji
Published: June 2018

Purpose. To evaluate the effect of corneal cap thickness on visual acuity and corneal biomechanics in small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) for the treatment of myopia. Methods. Forty eyes of 20 patients undergoing SMILE for the treatment of myopia were enrolled in this prospective controlled study. The patients with 510 μm–560 μm central corneal thickness (CCT) and a refractive spherical equivalent of −3.00 D to −8.00 D were included. It was designed randomly to undergo SMILE with a 110 μm cap thickness in one eye and 150 μm cap thickness in the other. Ophthalmic examinations included best-corrected and uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA); refractive status, contrast sensitivity, and objective visual quality were evaluated at 2 h, 4 h, and 24 h postoperatively; while at 3 months after the procedure, corrected intraocular pressure (IOP), higher order aberrations (HOAs), and morphologic modifications of corneal architecture of both eyes were assessed. Results. Compared with the 150 μm group, the incidence of OBL was significantly higher in the 110 μm cap thickness group (P=0.004), and UCVA, Strehl ratio (SR), objective scatter index (OSI), modulation transfer function (MTF) cutoff frequency, and photopic and scotopic contrast sensitivity at medium spatial frequency were all significantly better in 110 μm group at 2 h and 24 h postoperatively (P<0.05). Corneal spherical aberration and corrected IOP by Corvis ST were significantly higher in the 110 μm group at 3 months postoperatively (P<0.05). No statistically significant differences were found in manifest refraction, UCVA, SR, OSI, MTF cutoff, and mesopic and photopic contrast sensitivity at low frequency, photopic contrast sensitivity at high frequency, endothelial density, corneal coma, and total HOAs at 3 months after the procedure. No visual decline was found in the patients in this study. Conclusions. Both 110 μm and 150 μm cap thickness in SMILE were safe and effective for treatment of myopia. A 110 μm cap thickness demonstrated better visual outcomes during early and late postoperative periods with higher corneal spherical aberration and corrected IOP at 3 months postoperatively. This trial is registered with ChiCTR-IOR-17013369.
How Well Does the Traffic System Protect Transit from Congestion? Measuring Route-Level Costs That Congestion Imposes on Transit Operators and Users
Authors: Furth Peter G. , Halawani Ahmed T. M.
Published: June 2018

As transit agencies and road owners adopt the objective of protecting transit from congestion, it becomes important to have a method for measuring the cost that congestion imposes on transit. Congestion impacts transit both by lowering average speed and by increasing service unreliability. Altogether, five congestion impacts were identified: increased running time and recovery time for transit operators and increased riding time, waiting time, and buffer time for passengers. A methodology for estimating those impacts was developed using automatic vehicle location data. The basic approach was to compare the impact variables during various periods of the week against a base period when there is no congestion (late night and early morning), making adjustments to account for differences in demand that affect running time apart from congestion. The methodology was successfully applied to a sample of 10 bus routes in the Boston area. The cost of congestion on the sample routes was found to range from $1 to $2 per passenger, with annual costs as great as $8 M per year on some routes. Of the total congestion cost, just under 20% applies to the operator, with the remainder applying to passengers. And while the operator is mainly affected by increased average delay, passengers are mainly affected by worsening service reliability.