bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the geothermal effects caused by the weathering of crystalline rocks
Authors: Vasseur Guy , Lachassagne Patrick
Published: May 2018

The acquisition of a permeability high enough to constitute an aquifer in crystalline rocks is a result of physico-chemical weathering through the transformation of minerals by the chemical processes of oxidation and hydration. The volumetric changes resulting from hydration induce stresses that fracture unweathered rocks. These reactions are exothermic, suggesting that the heat produced may generate a geothermal signature and even some hydrothermal effects. This paper develops a simplified model of thermal disturbance related to exothermic hydration to determine the relevance of this potential thermal effect. The fundamental thermal parameter is the rate of heat production, which is the product of the heat generation per unit volume multiplied by the velocity of the propagation of the front. When the front velocity is
c.
≤1 mm a
−1
, the temperature disturbance is negligible. The thermal effect only becomes significant if propagation of the front is extremely rapid (several centimetres per year). This observation led to an investigation of the instantaneous value of the front propagation velocity. This parameter was evaluated using a physical model coupling diffusion and chemical reactions with rock fracturing. Such extreme front velocities were only reached in exceptional circumstances; in most common situations, the weathering of crystalline rocks does not cause geothermal effects.
Characterization and location of the laminated layer within hard rock weathering profiles from electrical resistivity tomography: implications for water well siting
Authors: Belle Pierre , Lachassagne Patrick , Mathieu Francis , Barbet Christine , Brisset Nicolas , Gourry Jean-Christophe
Published: May 2018

This research aims to quantify the geophysical signature of the laminated layer, one of the main layers constituting the weathering profile of hard rocks. This laminated layer acts as a marker for locating the underlying groundwater productive stratiform fractured layer (SFL). The study is based at two sites on the interpretation of 50 km of electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) profiles, compared with outcrops and boreholes by geophysical modelling. For the first time, the geophysical signature of the laminated layer, located at the base of the saprolite, is characterized within granite formations. Where the stratiform weathered layer is detected by pole-dipole ERT profiles, the laminated layer is identified as a resistant layer on 90% of the SFL length using an appropriate inversion method. In addition, this layer is also revealed for the first time in certain types of metamorphic formations; here it is revealed in micaschists (62% of the SFL length). The location of the laminated layer in the weathering profile is important (1) for water well siting by determining if an underlying SFL exists in the weathering profile and (2) for assessing the residual thickness of the saprolite, and then evaluating water storage and the protection of the SFL aquifer.
Latent Growth and Dynamic Structural Equation Models
Authors: Grimm Kevin J. , Ram Nilam
Published: May 2018

Latent growth models make up a class of methods to study within-person change—how it progresses, how it differs across individuals, what are its determinants, and what are its consequences. Latent growth methods have been applied in many domains to examine average and differential responses to interventions and treatments. In this review, we introduce the growth modeling approach to studying change by presenting different models of change and interpretations of their model parameters. We then apply these methods to examining sex differences in the development of binge drinking behavior through adolescence and into adulthood. Advances in growth modeling methods are then discussed and include inherently nonlinear growth models, derivative specification of growth models, and latent change score models to study stochastic change processes. We conclude with relevant design issues of longitudinal studies and considerations for the analysis of longitudinal data.
Effects of a New Nano-Silver Fluoride-Containing Dentifrice on Demineralization of Enamel andStreptococcus mutansAdhesion and Acidogenicity
Authors: Teixeira Joás Araújo , Silva Amitis Vieira Costa e , Santos Júnior Valdeci Elias dos , Melo Júnior Paulo Correia de , Arnaud Manuela , Lima Maria Goretti , Flores Miguel Angel Pelagio , Stamford Thayza Christina Montenegro , Dias Pereira José Ricardo , Ribeiro Targino Andréa Gadelha , Galembeck André , Rosenblatt Aronita
Published: May 2018

An experimental dentifrice containing nano-silver fluoride (NSF) and a sodium fluoride (NaF) toothpaste were testedin vitro, againstS. mutans, to evaluate the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC), antiadherence, antiacid, enamel microhardness, and OCT. The microdilution technique was used to determine the MIC and MBC. Fragments of deciduous enamel were treated with dentifrice slurries, containing bacterial suspension and PBS-treated saliva. The quantification of the microorganisms that adhered to the enamel was determined after 24 hours of incubation, and media pH readings were performed after 2 hours and 24 hours. Deciduous teeth were evaluated for microhardness and OCT during 14 days of pH cycling. Data were statistically analyzed using Student’st-test, Mann–WhitneyUtest, ANOVA, and Tukey tests at 5% of significance. Dentifrices containing NSF presented a lower MIC and higher statistically significant results compared to NaF dentifrices with respect to preventing bacterial adhesion and pH decreases. NSF and NaF dentifrices showed the same ability to avoid enamel demineralization corroborated by the OCT images. The NSF formulation had a better antibacterial effect compared to NaF dentifrices and similar action on the demineralization of enamel indicating their potential effectiveness to prevent caries.
The Role of Galectins in Cervical Cancer Biology and Progression
Authors: Wang Lufang , Zhao Yanyan , Wang Yanshi , Wu Xin
Published: May 2018

Cervical cancer is one of the malignant tumors with high incidence and high mortality among women in developing countries. The main factors affecting the prognosis of cervical cancer are the late recurrence and metastasis and the effective adjuvant treatment, which is radiation and chemotherapy or combination therapy. Galectins, a family containing many carbohydrate binding proteins, are closely involved in the occurrence and development of tumor. They are involved in tumor cells transformation, angiogenesis, metastasis, immune escape, and sensitivity against radiation and chemotherapy. Therefore, galectins are deemed as the targets of multifunctional cancer treatment. In this review, we mainly focus on the role of galectins, especially galectin-1, galectin-3, galectin-7, and galectin-9 in cervical cancer, and provide theoretical basis for potential targeted treatment of cervical cancer.
Diabetes Mellitus and Liver Surgery: The Effect of Diabetes on Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Mendes-Braz Mariana , Martins Joilson O.
Published: May 2018

Diabetes mellitus(DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycaemia and high morbidity worldwide. The detrimental effects of hyperglycaemia include an increase in the oxidative stress (OS) response and an enhanced inflammatory response. DM compromises the ability of the liver to regenerate and is particularly associated with poor prognosis after ischaemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Considering the growing need for knowledge of the impact of DM on the liver following a surgical procedure, this review aims to present recent publications addressing the effects of DM (hyperglycaemia) on OS and the inflammatory process, which play an essential role in I/R injury and impaired hepatic regeneration after liver surgery.
The Effect of Ca and Mg Concentrations and Quantity and Their Correlation with Caries Intensity in School-Age Children
Authors: Sejdini Milaim , Meqa Kastriot , Berisha Nora , Çitaku Ekrem , Aliu Nora , Krasniqi Sokol , Salihu Sami
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Saliva is a watery product formed by the salivary glands and secreted in the mouth. Besides the fundamental factors, saliva with its ingredient is one of the main etiologic factors of caries presence. In the development of dental caries, the relationship between demineralization and remineralization is influenced by the presence of saliva, which facilitates the transportation of ions, oral bacteria, and fermentable carbohydrates to the exposed surfaces of teeth. The main components of saliva electrolytes are sodium, calcium, copper, magnesium, bicarbonates, and organic phosphates. Increase in calcium level in the remineralization solution may enhance the deposition velocity of minerals in the caries lesion. Magnesium, except the similar role as calcium, takes an active part in cellular reparation process. Materials and Methods. In this study were included students of age 12-13. Students were divided into three groups; the first group included caries-free children, the second group with DMF = 1–6, and the third group with DMF > 6. Fully stimulated and nonstimulated saliva was collected in sterile graded patches in the morning hours, due to the circadian rhythm in 5-minute length. Chemical analyzes have been conducted at the Faculty of Chemistry, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje. Statistical processing has been performed at the Medical Faculty, at the Institute of Medical Statistics in Skopje. Results. Depending on the DMF, before and after stimulation, regarding Ca level, no significant differences were found. However, the Ca level prior to stimulation is significantly higher in the second group compared to the third one. Also, the amount of Ca after stimulation in the first group was significantly higher. No significant differences in Mg level and amount were found prior to and after stimulation, while the amount of Mg after stimulation had a significant difference between groups. Conclusion. Saliva mineral analysis has shown significant differences in quantitative and qualitative components between examining groups. The decrease of calcium molality in saliva might play a significant role in caries occurrence; thus, we may suppose that saliva calcium level significantly influences hard dental tissues defense mechanism. Magnesium levels after stimulation showed a significant difference between groups I and III and no significant differences between groups I and II. Magnesium level and amount correlate with calcium level, favoring elemental caries resistance.
Presaturation Power Adjusted Pulsed CEST: A Method to Increase Independence of Target CEST Signals
Authors: Kikuchi Kazufumi , Ishimatsu Keisuke , Zhang Shanrong , Dimitrov Ivan E. , Honda Hiroshi , Sherry A. Dean , Takahashi Masaya
Published: May 2018

Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) imaging has been demonstrated to discuss the concentration changes of amide proton, glutamate, creatine, or glucose measured at 3.5, 3.0, 2.0, and 1.0–1.2 ppm. However, these peaks inz-spectra are quite broad and overlap with each other, and thus, the independence of a CEST signal on any specific metabolite is still open to question. Here, we described whether there was interference among the CEST signals and how these CEST signals behave when the power of the presaturation pulse was changed. Based on these results, further experiments were designed to investigate a method to increase the independence of the CEST signal in both phantoms and animals. The result illustrates a clear interference among CEST signals. A presaturation power adjusted pulsed- (PPAP-) CEST method which was designed based on the exchange rates of the metabolites can be used to remove contributions from other exchanging species in the same sample. Further, the method was shown to improve the independence of the glutamate signalin vivoin the renal medulla in mice. The PPAP-CEST method has the potential to increase the independence of any target CEST signalsin vivoby choosing the appropriate combination of pulse amplitudes and durations.
To Predict the Requirement of Pharmacotherapy by OGTT Glucose Levels in Women with GDM Classified by the IADPSG Criteria
Authors: Yerlikaya Gülen , Falcone Veronica , Stopp Tina , Mittlböck Martina , Tura Andrea , Husslein Peter , Eppel Wolfgang , Göbl Christian S.
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to assess the association between OGTT glucose levels and requirement of pharmacotherapy in GDM patients classified by the IADPSG criteria. This study included 203 GDM patients (108 managed with lifestyle modification and 95 requiring pharmacotherapy). Clinical risk factors and OGTT glucose concentrations at 0 (G0), 60 (G60), and 120 min (G120) were collected. OGTT glucose levels were significantly associated with the later requirement of pharmacotherapy (ROC-AUC: 71.1, 95% CI: 63.8–78.3). Also, the combination of clinical risk factors (age, BMI, parity, and pharmacotherapy in previous gestation) showed an acceptable predictive accuracy (ROC-AUC: 72.1, 95% CI: 65.0–79.2), which was further improved when glycemic parameters were added (ROC-AUC: 77.5, 95% CI: 71.5–83.9). Random forest analysis revealed the highest variable importance for G0, G60, and age. OGTT glucose measures in addition to clinical risk factors showed promising properties for risk stratification in GDM patients classified by the recently established IADPSG criteria.
Integration of Artificial Neural Network Modeling and Hyperspectral Data Preprocessing for Discrimination of Colla Corii Asini Adulteration
Authors: Wang Huihui , Wang Kunlun , Wang Biyao , Lv Yan , Tao Xueheng , Zhang Xu , Tan Mingqian
Published: May 2018

The study of hyperspectral imaging in tandem with spectral preprocessing and neural network techniques was conducted to realize Colla Corii Asini (CCA, E’jiao) adulteration discrimination. CCA was adulterated with pig skin gelatin (PSG) in the range of 5–95% (w/w) at 5% increments. Three methods were used to pretreat the original spectra, which are multiplicative scatter correction (MSC), Savitzky-Golay (SG) smoothing, and the combination of MSC and SG (MSC-SG). SPA was employed to select the characteristic wavelengths (CWs) to reduce the high dimension. Colour and texture features of CWs were extracted as input of prediction model. Two kinds of artificial neural network (ANN) with three spectral preprocessing methods were applied to establish the prediction models. The prediction model of generalized regression neural network (GRNN) in tandem with the MSC-SG preprocessed method presented satisfactory performance with the correct classification rate value of 92.5%. The results illustrated that the integration of preprocessing methods, hyperspectral imaging features, and ANN modeling had a great potential and feasibility for CCA adulteration discrimination.
A Novel Design of Sparse FIR Multiple Notch Filters with Tunable Notch Frequencies
Authors: Xu Wei , Li Anyu , Shi Boya , Zhao Jiaxiang
Published: May 2018

We focus on the design of finite impulse response (FIR) multiple notch filters. To reduce the computational complexity and hardware implementation complexity, a novel algorithm is developed based on the mixture of the tuning of notch frequencies and the sparsity of filter coefficients. The proposed design procedure can be carried out as follow: first, since sparse FIR filters have lower implementation complexity than full filters, a sparse linear phase FIR single notch filter with the given rejection bandwidth and passband attenuation is designed. Second, a tuning procedure is applied to the computed sparse filter to produce the desired sparse linear phase FIR multiple notch filter. When the notch frequencies are varied, the same tuning procedure can be employed to render the new multiple notch filter instead of designing the filter from scratch. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated through three design examples.
Strength and Failure Characteristics of Natural and Water‐Saturated Coal Specimens under Static and Dynamic Loads
Authors: Wang Wen , Wang Heng , Li Dongyin , Li Huamin , Liu Zhumeng
Published: May 2018

Rock bursts occur frequently in coal mines, and the mechanical properties of saturated coal specimens under coupled static‐dynamic loading need to be studied in detail. Comparative tests of coal specimens having different water content under static and static‐dynamic loading are conducted using the split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) and RMT‐150C test systems. The results demonstrate that the natural specimen strength is greater than that of seven‐day (7D) saturated specimens under both uniaxial compression and triaxial static compression loading; however, the dynamic strength of 7D saturated specimens is lower than that of natural specimens under one‐dimensional static‐dynamic loading. The particle size of the 7D saturated specimens is relatively small under uniaxial static compression and one‐dimensional static‐dynamic loading, and the specimen particle sizes before and after static triaxial loading tests and three‐dimensional static‐dynamic loading tests do not exhibit an obvious difference.
Epidemiological Survey of Rotaviruses Responsible for Infantile Diarrhea by the Immunomolecular Technique in Cotonou (Benin, West Africa)
Authors: Agbla Jijoho Mischaël Michel , Capo-Chichi Annick , Agbankpé Alidéhou Jerrold , Dougnon Tamègnon Victorien , Yadouleton Anges William M. , Houngbégnon Olivia , Glele-Kakai Clément , Armah George Enyimah , Bankolé Honoré
Published: May 2018

Rotavirus remains the main causative agent of gastroenteritis in young children, in countries that have not yet introduced the vaccine. Benin, in order to implement the WHO recommendations, projects to introduce the rotavirus vaccine in 2018 as part of its Expanded Program on Immunization. But before the introduction of this vaccine, epidemiological data on rotavirus infections and rotavirus genotypes circulating in Benin should be available. The aim of this study is to generate epidemiological data on infantile rotavirus diarrhea in Benin. In order to determine the epidemiological characteristics and electrophoretypes of rotavirus responsible for gastroenteritis in diarrheic children aged 0 to 5 years, 186 stool samples were collected according to the WHO Rotavirus Laboratory Manual from March 2014 to February 2015 at Suru-Lere University Hospital Center. Detection of rotavirus antigen was performed by the ELISA test, followed by molecular characterization using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. 186 stool samples were analyzed for rotavirus, and seventy-three (39.2%) were found to be positive for rotavirus antigen by ELISA. Children aged 3 to 24 months were the most affected by rotavirus diarrhea in this study. Of the seventy-three children affected with rotavirus diarrhea, 27 (37%) had vomiting accompanied by dehydration and fever. Results based on electrophoresis showed that, among the 73 samples tested, 38 yielded typical rotavirus electrophoretic migration profiles.
A Genomewide Integrative Analysis of GWAS and eQTLs Data Identifies Multiple Genes and Gene Sets Associated with Obesity
Authors: Liu Li , Fan Qianrui , Zhang Feng , Guo Xiong , Liang Xiao , Du Yanan , Li Ping , Wen Yan , Hao Jingcan , Wang Wenyu , He Awen
Published: May 2018

To identify novel susceptibility genes and gene sets for obesity, we conducted a genomewide expression association analysis of obesity via integrating genomewide association study (GWAS) and expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) data. GWAS summary data of body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) was driven from a published study, totally involving 339,224 individuals. The eQTLs dataset (containing 927,753 eQTLs) was obtained from eQTLs meta-analysis of 5,311 subjects. Integrative analysis of GWAS and eQTLs data was conducted by SMR software. The SMR single gene analysis results were further subjected to gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) for identifying obesity associated gene sets. A total of 13,311 annotated gene sets were analyzed in this study. SMR single gene analysis identified 20 BMI associated genes (TUFM, SPI1, APOB48R, etc.). Also 3 WHR associated genes were detected (CPEB4, WARS2, and L3MBTL3). The significant association between Chr16p11 and BMI was observed by GSEA (FDR adjusted p value = 0.040). The TGCTGCT, MIR-15A, MIR-16, MIR-15B, MIR-195, MIR-424, and MIR-497 (FDR adjusted p value = 0.049) gene set appeared to be linked with WHR. Our results provide novel clues for the genetic mechanism studies of obesity. This study also illustrated the good performance of SMR for susceptibility gene mapping.
Necrotizing Soft Tissue Fasciitis after Intramuscular Injection
Authors: Abbate Angelica , Almasio Piero Luigi , Mongitore Martina , Di Vita Gaetano , Patti Rosalia
Published: May 2018

Necrotizing soft tissue fasciitis (NSTIs) or necrotizing fasciitis is an infrequent and serious infection. Herein, we describe the clinical course of a female patient who received a diagnosis of NSTIs after gluteus intramuscular injection. We also report the results of our review of published papers from 1997 to 2017. Since now, 19 cases of NSTIs following intramuscular injections have been described. We focus on the correlation between intramuscular injection and NSTIs onset, especially in immunosuppressed patients treated with corticosteroids, suffering from chronic diseases or drug addicted. Intramuscular injections can provoke severe tissue trauma, representing local portal of infection, even if correctly administrated. Otherwise, it is important not to inject drug in subcutaneous, which is a less vascularized area and therefore more susceptible to infections. Likewise, a proper injecting technique and aspiration prior to injection seem to be valid measure to prevent intra-arterial or para-arterial drug injection with the consequent massive inflammatory reaction. Necrosis at the infection site appears to be independent of the drug, and it is a strong additional risk factor for NSTIs.
Seismic Performance of Multistorey Masonry Structure with Openings Repaired with CFRP Grid
Authors: Gu Jin-Ben , Tao Yi , Xin Ren , Yang Z. , Shi Qing-Xuan
Published: May 2018

FRP composites have been used for strengthening RC and masonry structures for decades. However, the researches on repairing multistorey masonry structures using FRP grids were relative less. In the present paper, an experimental study on the seismic performance of multistorey masonry structure with openings repaired with CFRP grid is introduced. Specifically, a 1/3‐scale three‐floor masonry wall with window openings was tested under quasistatic action to simulate the seismic damages. The damaged masonry wall was then repaired by externally bonding CFRP grids to the areas where the cracks intensively occurred. The repaired masonry wall was retested under the same loading to investigate the seismic resistance and assess the recovery attributed from the CFRP grid repairing. The findings of this study showed that CFRP grid repairing could effectively postpone or even prevent the occurrence and development of cracking. The seismic resistance of the masonry, including shear capacity, energy dissipation capacity, deformability, stiffness degradation, and ductility, was restored. The application of CFRP grid may shift the failure mechanism of the multistorey masonry wall. The recommendation of repair scheme for the similar structures was also proposed in accordance with the findings of the present work.
Rare Earth Elements in Mineral Deposits: Speciation in Hydrothermal Fluids and Partitioning in Calcite
Authors: Perry Emily P. , Gysi Alexander P.
Published: May 2018

Studying the speciation and mineral-fluid partitioning of the rare earth elements (REE) allows us to delineate the key processes responsible for the formation of economic REE mineral deposits in natural systems. Hydrothermal REE-bearing calcite is typically hosted in carbonatites and alkaline rocks, such as the giant Bayan Obo REE deposit in China and potential REE deposits such as Bear Lodge, WY. The compositions of these hydrothermal veins yield valuable information regarding pressure (P), temperature (T), salinity, and other physicochemical conditions under which the REE can be fractionated and concentrated in crustal fluids. This study presents numerical simulation results of the speciation of REE in aqueous NaCl-H2O-CO2-bearing hydrothermal fluids and a new partitioning model between calcite and fluids at different P-T-x conditions. Results show that, in a high CO2 and low salinity system, bicarbonate/carbonate are the main transporting ligands for the REE, but predominance shifts to chloride complexes in systems with high CO2 and high salinity. Hydroxyl REE complexes may be important for the solubility and transport of the REE in alkaline fluids. These numerical predictions allow us to make quantitative interpretations of hydrothermal processes in REE mineral deposits, particularly in carbonatites, and show where future experimental work will be essential in improving our modeling capabilities for these ore-forming processes.
C1 Hermite Interpolation with PH Curves Using the Enneper Surface
Authors: Lee Hyun Chol , Kong Jae Hoon , Kim Gwangil
Published: May 2018

We show that the geometric and PH-preserving properties of the Enneper surface allow us to find PH interpolants for all regular C1 Hermite data-sets. Each such data-set is satisfied by two scaled Enneper surfaces, and we can obtain four interpolants on each surface. Examples of these interpolants were found to be better, in terms of bending energy and arc-length, than those obtained using a previous PH-preserving mapping.
Hydrodynamics in Evaporate-Bearing Fine-Grained Successions Investigated through an Interdisciplinary Approach: A Test Study in Southern Italy—Hydrogeological Behaviour of Heterogeneous Low-Permeability Media
Authors: Petrella E. , Bucci A. , Ogata K. , Zanini A. , Naclerio G. , Chelli A. , Francese R. , Boschetti T. , Pittalis D. , Celico F.
Published: May 2018

Messinian evaporates are widely distributed in the Mediterranean Sea as outcropping sediments in small marginal basins and in marine cores. Progressive filling of subbasins led to the formation of complex aquifer systems in different regions where hypersaline and fresh water coexist and interact in different manner. It also generates a significant diversification of groundwater hydrochemical signature and different microbial communities. In the case study, the hydrogeology and hydrochemistry of the whole system are influenced by good hydraulic connection between the shallower pyroclastic horizon and the underlying evaporate-bearing fine-grained Messinian succession. This is demonstrated by the merge of hydrogeological, chemical, isotopic, and microbiological data. No mixing with deep ascending waters has been observed. As shown by geophysical, hydraulic, and microbiological investigations, the hydraulic heterogeneity of the Messinian bedrock, mainly due to karstified evaporitic interstrata/lenses, causes the hydraulic head to significantly vary with depth. Somewhere, the head increases with the depth’s increase and artesian flow conditions are locally observed. Moreover, the metagenomic investigations demonstrated the existence of a poor hydraulic connection within the evaporate-bearing fine-grained succession at metric and decametric scales, therefore leading to a patchwork of geochemical (and microbiological) subenvironments.
Cartilage Surgery in Overweight Patients: Clinical and MRI Results after the Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis Procedure
Authors: Lahner Matthias , Ull Christopher , Hagen Marco , von Schulze Pellengahr Christoph , Daniilidis Kiriakos , von Engelhardt Lars Victor , Lahner Nina , Teske Wolfram
Published: May 2018

Modern orthopaedic surgery provides a variety of techniques for cartilage repair. The Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis (AMIC) procedure is a single-step technique with a collagen I/III scaffold for the treatment of full-thickness cartilage lesions. The aim of the study was to analyze the outcome of the AMIC procedure in overweight patients with knee cartilage defects. Overweight patients treated with AMIC surgery were followed up by clinical and MRI examination. 9 patients with a cartilage defect of the knee with a mean lesion size of 2.1±1.2 cm2 and an average body mass index (BMI) of 29.3 were available for the follow-up. The Lysholm Score was significantly improved by the AMIC procedure (38 to 67, p≤0.008). The VAS Score was significantly lower after the procedure (9 to 3, p≤0.018). In the postoperative MOCART Scale, the scaffold reached defect covering of 80%. However, 2 patients had to be revised due to persisting knee pain. The AMIC procedure enhances pain reduction and gain of knee function for cartilage defects of overweight patients. However, in cases of an increased BMI, the patient had to be informed that success rate is reduced despite good defect covering.
Three Types of Broadly Reacting Antibodies against Influenza B Viruses Induced by Vaccination with Seasonal Influenza Viruses
Authors: Hirano Daisuke , Ohshima Nobuko , Kubota-Koketsu Ritsuko , Yamasaki Ayami , Kurosawa Gene , Okuno Yoshinobu , Yoshida Shunji , Kurosawa Yoshikazu
Published: May 2018

We analyzed the antibody (Ab) repertoire against influenza B viruses induced by vaccination with seasonal influenza viruses in one individual who had never been vaccinated until 2009. The vaccine used in this study comprised B/Massachusetts/2/2012 (Yamagata lineage), A/Texas/50/2012 (H3N2), and A/California/7/2009 (H1N1). One month after the subject received two vaccinations, blood (200 ml) was obtained and peripheral mononuclear cells were prepared, and a large Ab library was constructed using phage display technology. The library was screened with HA-enriched fraction of B/Massachusetts/2/2012 and B/Brisbane/60/2008 (Victoria lineage) virus, and a total of 26 Abs that potentially bound to hemagglutinin (HA) molecules were isolated. Their binding activities to six influenza B viruses, three of Yamagata lineage and three of Victoria lineage, and two influenza A viruses, H1N1 and H3N2, were examined. The Abs showed cross-reactivity at three different levels. The first type bound to all Yamagata lineage viruses. The second type bound to both Yamagata and Victoria lineage viruses. The third type bound to both influenza A and B viruses. These results indicate that common epitopes exist on HA molecules of influenza virus at various levels, and humans have capability to produce Abs that bind to such common epitopes.
Experimental Study on the Shear Behavior of Bolted Concrete Blocks with Oblique Shear Test
Authors: Meng Bo , Jing Hongwen , Yang Shengqi , Wang Yingchao , Li Biao
Published: May 2018

The shear behavior of concrete blocks reinforced by fully grouted bolts with different diameters was studied in this paper. More than 90 intact cubic samples (100 mm × 100 mm × 100 mm) with bolts ranging from 2 mm to 5 mm in diameter were tested at a constant stain rate of 0.5 mm/min. An oblique shear apparatus, which could simultaneously apply shear and normal force on tested samples at three slope angles (53°, 58°, and 63°) of a predetermined shear plane, was employed. The results indicate that the bolt has no evident influence on the shear behavior of intact concrete blocks at the prepeak shear strength stage. The bolt could significantly reduce the shear strength drop in the peak shear strength of the concrete block and contribute to reserving the residual shear strength of concrete blocks, especially at steep slope angles of the shear failure plane. The shear resistance provided by the bolt to the concrete block at the residual shear slip stage has a positive relationship with the diameter. The bolt with a larger diameter inflected in the vicinity of the shear failure plane of concrete block at the postpeak shear strength stage; additional normal force and direct shear resistance could still be persistently provided. Two empirical equations of the apparent cohesion and apparent internal angle of the bolted concrete block were obtained by linear regression considering rb, which is the ratio of the cross‐sectional area of the bolt to that of the bolted concrete block.
A Comparative Study for Detection of EGFR Mutations in Plasma Cell-Free DNA in Korean Clinical Diagnostic Laboratories
Authors: Kim Yoonjung , Shin Saeam , Lee Kyung-A
Published: May 2018

Liquid biopsies to genotype the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) for targeted therapy have been implemented in clinical decision-making in the field of lung cancer, but harmonization of detection methods is still scarce among clinical laboratories. We performed a pilot external quality assurance (EQA) scheme to harmonize circulating tumor DNA testing among laboratories. For EQA, we created materials containing different levels of spiked cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in normal plasma. The limit of detection (LOD) of the cobas® EGFR Mutation Test v2 (Roche Molecular Systems) was also evaluated. From November 2016 to June 2017, seven clinical diagnostic laboratories participated in the EQA program. The majority (98.94%) of results obtained using the cobas assay and next-generation sequencing (NGS) were acceptable. Quantitative results from the cobas assay were positively correlated with allele frequencies derived from digital droplet PCR measurements and showed good reproducibility among laboratories. The LOD of the cobas assay was 5~27 copies/mL for p.E746_A750del (exon 19 deletion), 35~70 copies/mL for p.L858R, 18~36 copies/mL for p.T790M, and 15~31 copies/mL for p.A767_V769dup (exon 20 insertion). Deep sequencing of materials (>100,000X depth of coverage) resulted in detection of low-level targets present at frequencies of 0.06~0.13%. Our results indicate that the cobas assay is a reliable and rapid method for detecting EGFR mutations in plasma cfDNA. Careful interpretation is particularly important for p.T790M detection in the setting of relapse. Individual laboratories should optimize NGS performance to maximize clinical utility.
Effects of the Varietal Diversity and the Thermal Treatment on the Protein Profile of Peanuts and Hazelnuts
Authors: De Angelis Elisabetta , Bavaro Simona Lucia , Monaci Linda , Pilolli Rosa
Published: May 2018

Several buffer compositions were compared for their efficiency in protein extraction from both raw and roasted peanut and hazelnut samples, the final goal being to understand the modification of protein solubility upon roasting and maximize the extraction yield. Denaturant conditions provided by urea-TBS buffer resulted in satisfactory extraction yields for both peanut and hazelnut samples, before and after the thermal treatment. In addition, different varieties of peanuts and hazelnuts were characterized to highlight the extent of variability in the protein profile accounted by the varietal factor and eventual differential resistance among cultivars to protein modification induced by the thermal processing. The protein profile was characterized by gel electrophoresis, and specific bands were analyzed by micro-HPLC-MS/MS coupled to software-based protein identification. No significant difference was observed for the investigated hazelnut cultivars, namely, Campana, Romana, and Georgia, whereas interesting features were presented for the peanut varieties Virginia, Zambia, and China. In particular, Zambia variety lacked two bands of approximately 36 and 24 kDa that were visible in Virginia and China varieties, which could suggest a lower allergenic potential of this particular variety which deserves to be further investigated before drawing final conclusions.
The Outcome of Papillary Thyroid Cancer Associated with Graves’ Disease: A Case Control Study
Authors: Menon Riju , Nair C. Gopalakrishnan , Babu Misha , Jacob Pradeep , Krishna G. Praveen
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Thyroidectomy is now a less popular therapeutic option for Graves’ disease. The frequency of thyroid nodule and the cancer risk of these nodules accompanying Graves’ disease are controversial. The outcome of thyroid cancers coexisting with Graves’ disease is debated. Study Design. Designed as retrospective case control study of papillary thyroid cancers associated with Graves’ disease and those with euthyroid background. Pathological characteristics and outcome of papillary thyroid cancers in the two groups were compared. Results. The tumour characteristics did not differ significantly in the groups. The patients were followed for a mean period of 77.32 months and found significant incidences of disease progression in patients with papillary thyroid cancer associated with Graves’ disease (p=0.034; OR 2.747, CI 1.078–7.004). Disease progression as new distant metastases mostly in skeletal locations was high in this group compared to euthyroid group (p=0.027; OR 4.121, CI 1.008–15.600). There was higher incidence of cumulative metastatic diseases in papillary thyroid cancer associated with Graves’ disease. Conclusion. Papillary thyroid cancers associated with Graves’ disease show aggressive biological behaviour and favoured site of distant metastases was osseous locations. Early diagnosis by routine screening of Graves’ disease patients with ultrasound imaging and aspiration studies is recommended.
A Reactance Compensated Three‐Device Doherty Power Amplifier for Bandwidth and Back‐Off Range Extension
Authors: Chen Shichang , Wang Weiwei , Xu Kuiwen , Wang Gaofeng
Published: May 2018

This paper proposes a new broadband Doherty power amplifier topology with extended back‐off range. A shunted λ/4 short line or λ/2 open line working as compensating reactance is introduced to the conventional load modulation network, which greatly improves its bandwidth. Underlying bandwidth extension mechanism of the proposed configuration is comprehensively analyzed. A three‐device Doherty power amplifier is implemented for demonstration based on Cree’s 10 W HEMTs. Measurements show that at least 41% drain efficiency is maintained from 2.0 GHz to 2.6 GHz at 8 dB back‐off range. In the same operating band, saturation power is larger than 43.6 dBm and drain efficiency is higher than 53%.
Multiple Retinal Holes Secondary to Valsalva Retinopathy
Authors: Gurung Rajya L.
Published: May 2018

Valsalva retinopathy is a common condition but retinal holes secondary to Valsalva retinopathy are rarely reported. The author believes this to be the first report to describe multiple retinal holes after hyaloidotomy for Valsalva retinopathy.
Autologous Dermis Graft Implantation: A Novel Approach to Reinforcement in Giant Hiatal Hernias
Authors: Kovács Balázs , Orosz Mikolt , Csucska Máté , Singhal Saurabh , Juhász Árpád , Lóderer Zoltán
Published: May 2018

Objectives. Nonreinforced tensile repair of giant hiatal hernias is susceptible to recurrence, and the role of mesh graft implantation remains controversial. Creating a new and viable choice without the use of high-cost biological allografts is desirable. This study presents the application of dermis graft reinforcement, a cost-efficient, easily adaptable alternative, in graft reinforcement of giant hiatal hernia repairs. Methods. A 62-year-old female patient with recurrent giant hiatal hernia (9 × 11 cm) and upside down stomach, immediately following the Belsey repair done in another department, was selected for the pilot procedure. The standard three-stitch nonabsorbable reconstruction of diaphragmatic crura was undertaken via laparoscopic approach. A 12 × 6 cm dermis autograft was harvested from the loose abdominal skin. “U” figure onlay reinforcement of diaphragm closure was secured with titanium staples. The procedure was completed with a standard Dor fundoplication. One- and seven-month follow-ups were conducted. Results. No short-term postoperative complications were observed. One-month follow-up showed normal anatomical location of abdominal viscera on computed tomography imaging. High-resolution manometry showed normal lower esophageal sphincter pressure. Preoperative abdominal complaints were resolved. Procedural costs were lower than the average cost following mesh graft reinforcement. Conclusion. Dermis graft reinforcement is a cheap, easily adaptable procedure in the repair of giant hiatal hernias, even in the setting of laparoscopic reoperative procedure.
Clinical Experience Using a 3D-Printed Patient-Specific Instrument for Medial Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy
Authors: Yang Jesse Chieh-Szu , Chen Cheng-Fong , Luo Chu-An , Chang Ming-Chau , Lee Oscar K. , Huang Ye , Lin Shang-Chih
Published: May 2018

Purpose. High tibial osteotomy (HTO) has been adopted as an effective surgery for medial degeneration of the osteoarthritis (OA) knee. However, satisfactory outcomes necessitate the precise creation and distraction of osteotomized wedges and the use of intraoperative X-ray images to continually monitor the wedge-related manipulation. Thus HTO is highly technique-demanding and has a high radiation exposure. We report a patient-specific instrument (PSI) guide for the precise creation and distraction of HTO wedge. Methods. This study first parameterized five HTO procedures to serve as a design rationale for an innovative PSI guide. Preoperative X-ray and computed tomography- (CT-) scanning images were used to design and fabricate PSI guides for clinical use. The weight-bearing line (WBL) of the ten patients was shifted to the Fujisawa’s point and instrumented using the TomoFix system. The radiological results of the PSI-guided HTO surgery were evaluated by the WBL percentage and tibial slope. Results. All patients consistently showed an increased range of motion and a decrease in pain and discomfort at about three-month follow-up. This study demonstrates the satisfactory accuracy of the WBL adjustment and tibial slope maintenance after HTO with PSI guide. For all patients, the average pre- and postoperative WBL are, respectively, 14.2% and 60.2%, while the tibial slopes are 9.9 and 10.1 degrees. The standard deviations are 2.78 and 0.36, respectively, in postoperative WBL and tibial slope. The relative errors of the pre- and postoperative WBL percentage and tibial slope averaged 4.9% and 4.1%, respectively. Conclusion. Instead of using navigator systems, this study integrated 2D and 3D preoperative planning to create a PSI guide that could most likely render the outcomes close to the planning. The PSI guide is a precise procedure that is time-saving, radiation-reducing, and relatively easy to use. Precise osteotomy and good short-term results were achieved with the PSI guide.
Infinitely Many Solutions for a Class of Fractional Impulsive Coupled Systems with (p,q)-Laplacian
Authors: Xie Junping , Zhang Xingyong
Published: May 2018

By using the symmetric mountain pass lemma, we investigate the problem of existence of infinitely many solutions for a class of fractional impulsive coupled systems with (p,q)-Laplacian, which possesses mixed type nonlinearities, and the nonlinearities do not need to satisfy the well-known Ambrosetti-Rabinowitz condition.
Optimal Reinsurance-Investment Problem for an Insurer and a Reinsurer with Jump-Diffusion Process
Authors: Hu Hanlei , Yin Zheng , Gao Xiujuan
Published: May 2018

The optimal reinsurance-investment strategies considering the interests of both the insurer and reinsurer are investigated. The surplus process is assumed to follow a jump-diffusion process and the insurer is permitted to purchase proportional reinsurance from the reinsurer. Applying dynamic programming approach and dual theory, the corresponding Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equations are derived and the optimal strategies for exponential utility function are obtained. In addition, several sensitivity analyses and numerical illustrations in the case with exponential claiming distributions are presented to analyze the effects of parameters about the optimal strategies.
Trust‐Based Situation Awareness: Comparative Analysis of Agent‐Based and Population‐Based Modeling
Authors: Nasar Zara , Jaffry Syed Waqar
Published: May 2018

In recent years, to comprehend and analyze complex systems, multiagent systems modeling and simulation are being widely used across various disciplines. Two major approaches used for multiagent systems modeling and simulation are agent‐based modeling (ABM) and population‐based modeling (PBM). In multiagent community, it is a silent assumption that both approaches represent similar dynamics for large population size. One of the recent studies from literature has reported similar results for a model of situation awareness spread in multiagent systems. Trust is a significant factor that affects agents’ communication, and consequently it controls spread of situation awareness among agents in a multiagent system. Hence, current work firstly extends the reported model of situation awareness spread from literature, to incorporate interagent trust for both ABM and PBM. Later, these extended models are used for comparative evaluation of both approaches. Various simulation experiments for different population sizes (small and large) as well as population types (homogenous and heterogeneous) are conducted and analyzed. Results of these experiments show that for large and homogeneous population, ABM approximates behavior of PBM, but for even slightly heterogeneous population, these approaches do not produce similar results irrespective of population sizes. Thus, the current study reports that, under some conditions, ABM and PBM produce similar results for trust‐based situation awareness spread in multiagent systems, but this assumption does not hold true at large.
An Investigation of the Effect of Parameters and Chip Slenderness Ratio on Drilling Process Quality of AISI 1050 Steel
Authors: Demir Zülküf , Yakut Rifat
Published: May 2018

The chip slenderness ratio is a vital parameter in theoretical and applicable machining operations. In predrilled drilling operations of AISI 1050 steel alloy, HSS drills were employed, and the effect of the selected parameters on the chip slenderness ratio and also the effect of the chip slenderness ratio on the thrust force, surface roughness, drilled hole delamination, tool wear, and chip morphology were investigated. The major parameters, influential on the chip slenderness ratio, were feed rate and point angle, while spindle speed was too small to be negligible. With increasing the chip slenderness ratio, the thrust force and the tool wear decreased, which resulted in appropriate chip morphology, but there were increases in surface roughness. However, the chip slenderness ratio had no effect on the drilled hole delamination.
A Method to Summarize Toxicity in Cancer Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Carbini Mariana , Suárez-Fariñas Mayte , Maki Robert G.
Published: May 2018

Purpose: Despite development of clinical “value frameworks” by national and international groups, there remains no generally accepted method to summarize toxicity in cancer clinical trials. We explored ways to simplify toxicity data of an arm of a cancer clinical trial to a single value, termed a “weighted toxicity score” (WTS).

Experimental Design: We compiled 58 randomized clinical trials of FDA-approved kinase-directed inhibitors. We generated 5 models, each of which assigned different weights for each observed grade 1 to 4 toxicities. For each model, we calculated WTS values as different weighted averages of the sum of the toxicities. We correlated each WTS with the dose reduction rate in each trial, using the dose reduction rate as a clinically relevant surrogate of treatment that is too toxic. The WTS method yielding the strongest correlation with frequency of dose reduction was declared the best model.

Results: Nineteen of 58 trials were placebo controlled and had complete data. Of the 5 models examined, differences in dose reduction rates correlated best with differences in WTS using a model with a clinician-weighted scale for toxicities (model M5). The WTS difference thus serves as a surrogate for a desired dose reduction rate difference and could be used to adjust dose/schedule as patients are accrued to a clinical trial.

Conclusions: The WTS distills a tabular listing of toxicities of a treatment into a single value, and provides a simple method that can be incorporated into value frameworks, or used to guide discussion of the risks and benefits of systemic therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 24(20); 4968–75. ©2018 AACR.

See related commentary by Vaishampayan, p. 4918