bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A transition between bouncing hyper-inflation to ΛCDM from diffusive scalar fields
Authors: Benisty David , Guendelman Eduardo I.
Published: July 2018

We consider the history of the universe from a possible big bang or a bounce into a late period of a unified interacting dark energy–dark matter model. The model is based on the Two Measures Theories (TMT) which introduces a metric independent volume element and this allows us to construct a unification of dark energy and dark matter. A generalization of the Two Measures Theories gives a diffusive nonconservative stress-energy–momentum tensor in addition to the conserved stress-energy tensor which appear in Einstein equations. These leads to a formulation of interacting DE–DM dust models in the form of a diffusive-type interacting Unified Dark Energy and Dark Matter scenario. The deviation from [Formula: see text]CDM is determined by the diffusion constant [Formula: see text]. For [Formula: see text] the model is indistinguishable from [Formula: see text]CDM. Numerical solutions of the theories show that in some [Formula: see text] the evolution of the early universe is governed by Stiff equation of state or the universe bounces to hyper-inflation. But all of those solutions have a final transition to [Formula: see text]CDM as a stable fixed point for the late universe.
Fundamental models in nonlinear acoustics part I. Analytical comparison
Authors: Kaltenbacher Barbara , Thalhammer Mechthild
Published: July 2018

This work is concerned with the study of fundamental models from nonlinear acoustics. In Part I, a hierarchy of nonlinear damped wave equations arising in the description of sound propagation in thermoviscous fluids is deduced. In particular, a rigorous justification of two classical models, the Kuznetsov and Westervelt equations, retained as limiting systems for vanishing thermal conductivity and consistent initial data, is given. Numerical comparisons that confirm and complement the theoretical results are provided in Part II.
Design Performance Characteristics of a Social Robot Companion “Arash” for Pediatric Hospitals
Authors: Meghdari Ali , Shariati Azadeh , Alemi Minoo , Nobaveh Ali Amoozandeh , Khamooshi Mobin , Mozaffari Behrad
Published: July 2018

This paper presents the design process and construction of a mobile social robot companion “Arash” for educational and therapeutic intervention for children with chronic diseases; one which is based on their interests and needs. This study concentrates on children with cancer who suffer from physical pain caused by both the disease and its treatment. Moreover, cancer treatment causes emotional distress, which can reduce the efficiency of medications. Using social robots to interact with ill children in a hospital environment could decrease their distress, thereby improving the efficiency of the treatment. Arash is a 15 degrees-of-freedom cost effective humanoid mobile robot companion, designed and developed to interact with children ages 4 to 12 years old. The robot has five physical subsystems: head, arms, torso, waist, and the mobile-base. Based on the robot requirements and specifications, appropriate measures were generated and thoroughly evaluated. An important and novel concept is the robots appearance, selected based on a survey taken from 50 children with chronic diseases at three pediatric hospitals in the city of Tehran. Based on these criteria and needs, Arash was designed, constructed, modified, and developed to operate in pediatric hospital environments.
Average of Uncertainty Product for Bounded Observables
Authors: Zhang Lin , Wang Jiamei
Published: July 2018

The goal of this paper is to calculate exactly the average of uncertainty product of two bounded observables and to establish its typicality over the whole set of finite dimensional quantum pure states. Here we use the uniform ensembles of pure and isospectral states as well as the states distributed uniformly according to the measure induced by the Hilbert-Schmidt norm. Firstly, we investigate the average uncertainty of an observable over isospectral density matrices. By letting the isospectral density matrices be of rank-one, we get the average uncertainty of an observable restricted to pure quantum states. These results can help us check how large is the gap between the uncertainty product and any lower bounds obtained for the uncertainty product. Although our method in the present paper cannot give a tighter lower bound of uncertainty product for bounded observables, it can help us drop any one that is not substantially tighter than the known one.
Isolated Partial Hadamard Matrices and Related Topics
Authors: Banica Teodor , Özteke Duygu , Pittau Lorenzo
Published: July 2018

We study the partial Hadamard matrices [Formula: see text] which are isolated, under the assumption that the entries [Formula: see text] are roots of unity, or more generally, under the assumption that the combinatorics of H comes from vanishing sums of roots of unity. We first review the various conjectures on the subject, and then we present several new results, regarding notably the isolation of the master Hadamard matrices, [Formula: see text], and the structure of the isolated matrices arising via the McNulty-Weigert construction. We discuss then the notion of isolation, in some related contexts, of the magic unitary matrices, and of the quantum permutation groups.
Hepatic stellate cells retain retinoid-laden lipid droplets after cellular transdifferentiation into activated myofibroblasts
Authors: Jophlin Loretta L. , Koutalos Yiannis , Chen Chunhe , Shah Vijay , Rockey Don C.
Published: July 2018

Loss of retinyl ester (RE)-rich lipid droplets (LDs) from hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is cited as a key event in their cellular transdifferentiation to activated, pro-fibrotic myofibroblasts; however, it remains unclear if changes in LD morphology or RE content are causal for transdifferentiation. To better understand LD dynamics in vitro within a common model of HSC activation, we used novel approaches preserving LD morphology and allowing for quantitation of RE. The size and quantity of LDs within in vitro and in vivo bile duct ligation (BDL)-activated HSCs were quantitated using adipocyte differentiation-related protein (ADRP) labeling and oil red o (ORO) staining (gold standard), and RE content was determined using fluorescence microscopy. We found during HSC activation in vitro that LD number differed significantly when measured by ADRP and ORO, respectively ( day 1: 56 vs. 5, P = 0.03; day 4: 101 vs. 39, P = 0.03; day 14: 241 vs. 12, P = 0.02). Ex vivo HSCs activated in vivo contained the same number of LDs as day 4 in vitro activated HSCs (118 vs. 101, P = 0.54). Decline in LD RE occurred beyond day 4 in vitro and day 1 ex vivo , after HSC transdifferentiation was underway. Lastly, in situ HSCs examined using electron microscopy show LDs tend to be smaller but are ultimately retained in BDL injured livers. Therefore, we conclude that during HSC transdifferentiation, LDs are not lost but are retained, decreasing in size. Additionally, RE content declines after transdifferentiation is underway. These data suggest that these LD changes are not causal for HSC transdifferentiation.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Loss of retinoid-laden lipid droplets from hepatic stellate cells has long been held as a hallmark of their transdifferentiation into activated myofibroblasts, the dominant cells that drive hepatic fibrosis. This study demonstrates that stellate cells activated in culture and after liver injury in vivo retain their lipid droplets and that these droplets become smaller and more numerous, with decreases in droplet retinoid concentration occurring only after cellular transdifferentiation is underway.
Human pulmonary endothelial cell permeability after exposure to LPS-stimulated leukocyte supernatants derived from patients with early sepsis
Authors: Leligdowicz Aleksandra , Chun Lauren F. , Jauregui Alejandra , Vessel Kathryn , Liu Kathleen D. , Calfee Carolyn S. , Matthay Michael A.
Published: July 2018

Systemic immune activation is the hallmark of sepsis, which can result in endothelial injury and the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The aim of this study was to investigate heterogeneity in sepsis-mediated endothelial permeability using primary human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMECs) and the electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) platform. After plasma removal, cellular component of whole blood from 35 intensive care unit (ICU) patients with early sepsis was diluted with media and stimulated with either lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or control media. Resulting supernatants were cocultured with HPMECs seeded on ECIS plates, and resistance was continually measured. A decrease in resistance signified increased permeability. After incubation, HPMECs were detached and cell adhesion proteins were quantified using flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry, and gene expression was analyzed with quantitative PCR. Significant heterogeneity in endothelial permeability after exposure to supernatants of LPS-stimulated leukocytes was identified. ICU patients with sepsis stratified into one of the following three groups: minimal (9/35, 26%), intermediate (18/35, 51%), and maximal (8/35, 23%) permeability. Maximal permeability was associated with increased intercellular adhesion molecule-1 protein and mRNA expression and decreased vascular endothelial-cadherin mRNA expression. These findings indicate that substantial heterogeneity in pulmonary endothelial permeability is induced by supernatants of LPS-stimulated leukocytes derived from patients with early sepsis and provide insights into some of the mechanisms that induce lung vascular injury. In addition, this in vitro model of lung endothelial permeability from LPS-stimulated leukocytes may be a useful method for testing therapeutic agents that could mitigate endothelial injury in early sepsis.
Competitive Biological Activities of Chitosan and Its Derivatives: Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anticancer, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities
Authors: Kim Suyeon
Published: July 2018

Chitosan is obtained from alkaline deacetylation of chitin, and acetamide groups are transformed into primary amino groups during the deacetylation. The diverse biological activities of chitosan and its derivatives are extensively studied that allows to widening the application fields in various sectors especially in biomedical science. The biological properties of chitosan are strongly depending on the solubility in water and other solvents. Deacetylation degree (DDA) and molecular weight (MW) are the most decisive parameters on the bioactivities since the primary amino groups are the key functional groups of chitosan where permits to interact with other molecules. Higher DDA and lower MW of chitosan and chitosan derivatives demonstrated higher antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer capacities. Therefore, the chitosan oligosaccharides (COS) with a low polymerization degree are receiving a great attention in medical and pharmaceutical applications as they have higher water solubility and lower viscosity than chitosan. In this review articles, the antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory activities of chitosan and its derivatives are highlighted. The influences of physicochemical parameters of chitosan like DDA and MW on bioactivities are also described.
Endothelial Microvesicles and Soluble Markers of Endothelial Injury in Critically Ill Newborns
Authors: Vítková Veronika , Pánek Martin , Janec Petr , Šibíková Michaela , Vobruba Václav , Haluzík Martin , Živný Jan , Janota Jan
Published: July 2018

Neonatal systemic inflammatory response and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome are the main postnatal insults influencing mortality and morbidity. Critically ill newborns with high predicted mortality are supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Biomarkers of inflammatory response and endothelial injury can be used for early diagnosis and treatment of critical neonatal situations. The aim of our study was to explore plasma proteins and endothelial microvesicles as markers of inflammation and endothelial activation in newborns on ECMO and to compare them with healthy neonates. Thirteen newborns on ECMO and 13 healthy newborns were included in the study. Plasma soluble biomarkers were measured using multiplex immunoassay based on Luminex® xMAP multianalyte profiling platform. The total microvesicle count and plasma level of surface antigen-specific microvesicles were determined by flow cytometry. The plasma concentration of cell-derived microvesicles was measured using annexin-V labeling, and the endothelial origin of microvesicles was determined using lineage-specific antigen labeling of endothelial cell/microvesicle markers (endoglin/CD105, PECAM1/CD31, VEGFR2/CD309, and MadCAM1). Inflammatory markers (procalcitonin, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-22) were increased in the ECMO group (P<0.01). The assessment of endothelial markers showed higher concentrations of endocan and angiopoietin-2 (P<0.01) in the ECMO group while VEGF in the ECMO group was significantly lower (P<0.01). In the ECMO group, the concentration of annexin-V-positive microvesicles (total microvesicles) and endothelial microvesicles expressing mucosal vascular addressin cell adhesion molecule 1 (MadCAM1) was increased (P=0.05). In summary, we found increased concentrations of soluble inflammatory and endothelial markers in the plasma of critically ill newborns with multiple organ dysfunction. Increased plasma concentrations of microvesicles may reflect the activation or damage of blood cells and vasculature including endothelial cells. The measurement of cell membrane-derived microvesicles may be added to the panel of established inflammatory markers in order to increase the sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic process in critically ill newborns.
Transpalpebral Electrical Stimulation as a Novel Therapeutic Approach to Decrease Intraocular Pressure for Open-Angle Glaucoma: A Pilot Study
Authors: Gil-Carrasco Félix , Ochoa-Contreras Daniel , Torres Marco A. , Santiago-Amaya Jorge , Pérez-Tovar Fidel W. , Gonzalez-Salinas Roberto , Nino-de-Rivera Luis
Published: July 2018

Purpose. To determine the effect on intraocular pressure of transpalpebral specific exogenous voltages in a cohort of open-angle glaucoma patients. Methods. This is a prospective, comparative, and experimental pilot study. The electrical stimuli applied consisted of 10 Hz, biphasic, nonrectangular current pulses (100 μA) delivered from an isolated constant current stimulator. At intake, baseline IOP measurements were obtained from each eye. The measurement was repeated before and after microstimulation until the end of the treatment. Results. Seventy-eight eyes of 46 patients diagnosed with POAG were studied: 58 eyes with maximum tolerated medical treatment and 20 eyes without treatment (naïve). The mean baseline IOP on the treated POAG group was 19.25 mmHg ± 4.71. Baseline IOP on the naïve group was 20.38 mmHg ± 3.28. At the four-month follow-up visit, the mean IOP value on the treatment group was 14.41 mmHg ± 2.06 (P<0.0001). The obtained mean IOP measurement on the treatment-naïve group was 15.29 mmHg ± 2.28 (P<0.0001). Conclusions. The hypotensive response obtained using transpalpebral electrical stimulation on POAG patients, both on treatment-naïve patients and on patients receiving maximum tolerable treatment, was statistically significant when comparing basal IOP measurements to those obtained at the four-month follow-up visit.
An Easily Customized Gesture Recognizer for Assisted Living Using Commodity Mobile Devices
Authors: Mezari Antigoni , Maglogiannis Ilias
Published: July 2018

Automatic gesture recognition is an important field in the area of human-computer interaction. Until recently, the main approach to gesture recognition was based mainly on real time video processing. The objective of this work is to propose the utilization of commodity smartwatches for such purpose. Smartwatches embed accelerometer sensors, and they are endowed with wireless communication capabilities (primarily Bluetooth), so as to connect with mobile phones on which gesture recognition algorithms may be executed. The algorithmic approach proposed in this paper accepts as the input readings from the smartwatch accelerometer sensors and processes them on the mobile phone. As a case study, the gesture recognition application was developed for Android devices and the Pebble smartwatch. This application allows the user to define the set of gestures and to train the system to recognize them. Three alternative methodologies were implemented and evaluated using a set of six 3-D natural gestures. All the reported results are quite satisfactory, while the method based on SAX (Symbolic Aggregate approXimation) was proven the most efficient.
Local Measurement and Diffusion Reconstruction for Signals on a Weighted Graph
Authors: Jiang Yingchun , Li Ting
Published: July 2018

Bandlimited graph signals on an unweighted graph can be reconstructed by its local measurement, which is a generalization of decimation. Since most signals are weighted in real life, we extend and improve the iterative local measurement reconstruction (ILMR) by introducing the diffusion operators to reconstruct bandlimited signals on a weighted graph. We prove that the proposed reconstruction converges to the original signal. Moreover, the simulation results demonstrate that the improved algorithm has better convergence and has robustness against noise.
Low-Dose Spironolactone-Pioglitazone-Metformin Normalizes Circulating Fetuin-A Concentrations in Adolescent Girls with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Díaz Marta , Gallego-Escuredo José Miguel , López-Bermejo Abel , de Zegher Francis , Villarroya Francesc , Ibáñez Lourdes
Published: July 2018

Background. Fetuin-A is a glycoprotein produced in the liver and related to metabolic syndrome; fetuin-A secretion is divergently regulated in different pathological conditions. In girls with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), insulin sensitization results in a more favorable endocrine-metabolic outcome than oral contraception; we assessed whether those differences are underscored by changes in circulating fetuin-A. Methods. Fetuin-A concentration endocrine-metabolic markers and hepatovisceral fat were measured longitudinally in 35 PCOS girls [age, 16 yr; body mass index (BMI), 23 kg/m2] randomized to receive either oral contraception [ethinylestradiol-levonorgestrel (n=18)] or a low-dose combination of spironolactone, pioglitazone, and metformin (SPIOMET, n=17) over 12 months. Healthy adolescent girls (age- and BMI-matched) were used as controls (n=25). Results. Pretreatment fetuin-A serum levels in PCOS girls were lower than those in controls. After 12 months on treatment, fetuin-A raised to control levels only in the SPIOMET subgroup (P=0.009, versus oral contraception); this increase was paralleled by a healthier metabolic profile with less hepatic fat (by MRI); baseline serum fetuin-A as well as the changes over 12 months was inversely related to hepatic adiposity. Conclusions. A low-dose combination of insulin sensitizers and an antiandrogen—but not oral contraception—normalizes fetuin-A levels in adolescent girls with PCOS. This trial is registered with ISRCTN29234515.
Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci and Its Associated Risk Factors among HIV-Positive and -Negative Clients Attending Dessie Referral Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia
Authors: Ali Seid , Alemayehu Martha , Dagnew Mulat , Gebrecherkos Teklay
Published: July 2018

Background. Enterococci are becoming the most important public health concern and emerging as multidrug-resistant organisms around the world including Africa particularly in Ethiopia where there is a lack of availability of effective antimicrobial drugs. However, there is a paucity of data on the prevalence and associated risk factors of vancomycin-resistant enterococci in Ethiopia.Objective. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence of vancomycin-resistant enterococci and its associated risk factors among HIV-positive and -negative clients.Methods. A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from February to May, 2017, on 300 participants at Dessie Referral Hospital. Data were gathered using a pretested structured questionnaire, stool samples were collected and inoculated on to bile esculin agar, and presumptive colonies were inoculated in brain-heart infusion broth containing 6.5% NaCl for selective identification of enterococci. Antibiotic susceptibility tests were done using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22 software package.Results. A total of 300 study participants were enrolled in this study, of which 57.7% were females with a mean age of 34.4, a range of 19–73 years. The overall prevalence of enterococci was 37.3%. The prevalence of VRE was 6.3%. From all isolates, the prevalence of VRE among HIV-positive and -negative clients was 5.9% and 7.4%, respectively. Resistance gentamicin, ampicillin, penicillin, and erythromycin was 37.5%, 34.8%, 34.8%, and 22.3%, respectively. Prevalence of multidrug resistance was (29.5%). Being low in hemoglobin content was significantly associated with VRE.Conclusion. The high prevalence of VRE and multidrug-resistant enterococci in this study signals the emergence of VRE. Detection of VRE in this study indicates decreased antibiotic treatment options of multidrug-resistant enterococci. Therefore, there should be a need to perform continuous surveillance, rational use of antibiotics, and more detailed study using phenotypic and genotypic methods.
Microseismic Monitoring of Energy Changes in Deep Tunnels during the TBM Tunneling of the Jinping II Hydropower Station
Authors: Zhuang Duanyang , Ma Ke , Tang Chunan , Liang Zhengzhao , Wang Zhenwei
Published: July 2018

The TBM tunneling at the Jinping II hydropower station in Southwest China has received extensive concerns around the world because of its large engineering scale and the high rockburst risks faced in the tunnel advancement. The associated energy changes of rockbursts and control method for safe TBM tunneling are to be further investigated. A movable microseismic (MS) monitoring system was established to capture the MS events and rockbursts when the TBM excavated the headrace tunnel #1 at the Jinping II hydropower station. The spatial and temporal patterns of the energy changes in the tunnel rock masses were studied. Meanwhile, the evolution of a rockburst encountered in front of the TBM excavation face was revealed, and the performance of the top pilot tunnel method on the reduction of the rockburst risks in the headrace tunnel #1 was evaluated based on the energy changes of the surrounding rock masses. It can be concluded that energy accumulation and energy release firstly occurred in the surrounding rock masses at the southern end of the top pilot tunnel section of the headrace tunnel #1. Then, energy transference of the rock masses took place from the southern end to northwest of the top pilot tunnel giving rise to the occurrence of a moderate rockburst about 30 m in front of the tunnel. However, no rockbursts appeared when the TBM excavated through the top pilot tunnel section of the headrace tunnel #1. Therefore, the top pilot tunnel method really works in reducing the risks of rockbursts during the TBM tunneling in deep tunnels.
Association of Copper Status with Lipid Profile and Functional Status in Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Barros Acsa Nara A. B. , Dourado Mário Emílio T. , Pedrosa Lucia de Fatima C. , Leite-Lais Lucia
Published: July 2018

Oxidative stress is one of the main mechanisms associated with the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Copper can affect cellular oxidation and lipid metabolism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of copper status with lipid profile and functional status in patients with ALS. A cross-sectional study was carried out including 27 patients with ALS (case group) and 26 healthy individuals (control group). Copper status was evaluated by habitual dietary copper intake, plasma copper, and serum ceruloplasmin concentrations. The lipid profile included analysis of serum total cholesterol (TC), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-c), HDL-cholesterol (HDL-c), and triglycerides (TGL). The functional status of patients with ALS was assessed by the ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R). In the case group, plasma copper was lower compared with the control group (133.9 versus 164.1 μg/dL,p=0.0001) and was positively correlated with HDL-c (rs=0.398,p=0.044). In the control group, plasma copper was positively correlated with serum ceruloplasmin (rs=0.646,p<0.001), TC (rs=0.446,p=0.025), LDL-c (rs=0.445,p=0.029), and HDL-c (rs=0.479,p=0.015), and serum ceruloplasmin was positively correlated only with LDL-c (rs=0.407,p=0.043). In the case group, dietary copper intake (B=−0.373,p<0.001), plasma copper (B=−0.005,p=0.033), and TC (B=−0.312,p=0.001) were inversely associated with the functional status of patients with ALS. In contrast, serum ceruloplasmin (B=0.016,p=0.044), LDL-c (B=0.314,p=0.001), HDL-c (B=0.308,p=0.001), and TGL (B=0.062;p=0.001) were positively associated with their functional status. In conclusion, this study suggests a disturbance of copper status and its connection with the lipid profile in patients with ALS. Furthermore, copper status and lipid profile may influence the functional status of patients with ALS, standing out as potential biomarkers of disease severity.
The Effects of Potassium Cyanide on the Functional Recovery of Isolated Rat Hearts after Ischemia and Reperfusion: The Role of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Petkovic Anica M. , Jakovljevic Vladimir Lj. , Bradic Jovana V. , Jeremic Jovana N. , Jeremic Nevena S. , Nikolic Turnic Tamara R. , Jovicic Nemanja U. , Rosic Vesna Z. , Srejovic Ivan M. , Zivkovic Vladimir I.
Published: July 2018

This investigation is aimed at examining the effects of pharmacological PostC with potassium cyanide (KCN) on functional recovery, gene expression, cytochrome c expression, and redox status of isolated rat hearts. Rats were divided into the control and KCN groups. The hearts of male Wistar albino rats were retrogradely perfused according to the Langendorff technique at a constant perfusion pressure of 70 cmH2O. After stabilisation, control hearts were subjected to global ischemia (5 minutes), followed by reperfusion (5 minutes), while experimental hearts underwent global ischemia (5 minutes) followed by 5 minutes of reperfusion with 10 μmol/L KCN. The following parameters of heart function were measured: maximum and minimum rates of pressure development, systolic and diastolic left ventricular pressure, heart rate, and coronary flow. Levels of superoxide anion radical, hydrogen peroxide, nitrites, and index of lipid peroxidation (measured as thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances) were measured in coronary venous effluent, and activity of catalase was determined in heart tissue. Expression of Bax, Bcl‐2, SOD‐1, SOD‐2, and cytochrome c was studied as well. It was shown that expression of Bax, Bcl‐2, and SOD‐2 genes did not significantly differ between groups, while expression of SOD‐1 gene and cytochrome c was lower in the KCN group. Our results demonstrated that KCN improved the recovery of myocardial contractility and systolic and diastolic function, enhanced catalase activity, and diminished generation of prooxidants. However, all possible mechanisms and potential adverse effects of KCN should be further examined in the future.
Modeling of Reinforced Concrete Beams Exposed to Fire by Using a Spectral Approach
Authors: Sun Rui , Xie Bo , Perera Ricardo , Pan Yongjun
Published: July 2018

This paper presents a numerical procedure for predicting the mechanical behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) beams exposed to fire. Thermal behavior is captured using a two‐dimensional finite element (FE) model in an environment of elevated temperatures, while a one‐dimensional spectral numerical model is formulated to simulate the mechanical response of the beam under increasing loads. Both models are integrated. Previous thermal results obtained from the FE model are provided for the proposed numerical model to calculate the responses of the RC beam for different levels of fire exposure. Few elements are deployed in this study due to the simplicity and efficiency of the proposed numerical model. Consequently, the computational burden of the numerical simulation for predicting the structural performances of RC beams exposed to fire is released comparing with conventional FE model. The numerical results are consistent with the test data, which demonstrate the model’s capability of efficiently simulating the thermomechanical behaviors of RC beams due to its simplicity and accuracy.
Sentry Bioconvertible Inferior Vena Cava Filter: Study of Stages of Incorporation in an Experimental Ovine Model
Authors: Gaines Peter A. , Kolodgie Frank D. , Crowley Gordon , Horan Steven , MacDonagh Megan , McLucas Emily , Rosenthal David , Strong Ashley , Sweet Michael , Panchal Deepal K.
Published: July 2018

The Sentry inferior vena cava (IVC) filter is designed to provide temporary protection from pulmonary embolism (PE) and then bioconvert to become incorporated in the vessel wall, leaving a patent IVC lumen. Objective. To evaluate the performance and stages of incorporation of the Sentry IVC filter in an ovine model. Methods. Twenty-four bioconvertible devices and 1 control retrievable filter were implanted in the infrarenal IVC of 25 sheep, with extensive daily monitoring and intensive imaging. Vessels and devices were analyzed at early (≤98 days, n = 10) and late (180 ± 30 days, n = 14 study devices, 1 control) termination and necropsy time-points. Results. Deployment success was 100% with all devices confirmed in filtering configuration, there were no filter-related complications, and bioconversion was 100% at termination with vessels widely patent. By 98 days for all early-incorporation analysis animals, the stabilizing cylindrical part of the Sentry frame was incorporated in the vessel wall, and the filter arms were retracted. By 180 days for all late-incorporation analysis animals, the filter arms as well as frames were stably incorporated. Conclusions. Through 180 days, there were no filter-related complications, and the study devices were all bioconverted and stably incorporated, leaving all IVCs patent.
Comparative Study of CFRP‐Confined CFST Stub Columns under Axial Compression
Authors: Guo Ying , Zhang Yufen
Published: July 2018

This paper presented a comparative study of concrete‐filled steel tubular (CFST) stub columns with three different confinement types from carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP): outer circular CFRP, inner circular CFRP, and outer square CFRP. The compressive mechanism and physical properties of the composite column were analyzed firstly aiming at investigating the confinement effect of CFRP. Ultimate axial bearing capacity of these three CFRP‐confined CFST columns was calculated based on Unified Theory of CFST and elastoplastic limit equilibrium theory, respectively. Meanwhile, the corresponding tests are adopted to validate the feasibility of the two calculation models. Through data analysis, the study confirmed the ultimate strength calculation results of the limit equilibrium method were found to be more reliable and approximate to the test results than those of Unified Theory of CFST. Then axial bearing capacity of the pure CFST column was predicted to evaluate the bearing capacity enhancement ratio of the three types of composite columns. It was demonstrated that the averaged enhancement ratio is 16.4 percent, showing that CFRP‐confined CFST columns had a broad engineering applicability. Through a comparative analysis, this study also confirmed that outer circular CFRP had the best confinement effect and outer square CFRP did better than inner circular CFRP. The confinement effect of CFRP increased with the decrease of concrete strength, and it was proportional with relative proportions of CFRP and steel under the same concrete strength.
Analysis of Plasma MicroRNAs as Predictors and Biomarkers of Aging and Frailty in Humans
Authors: Rusanova Iryna , Diaz-Casado María E. , Fernández-Ortiz Marisol , Aranda-Martínez Paula , Guerra-Librero Ana , García-García Francisco J. , Escames Germaine , Mañas Leocadio , Acuña-Castroviejo Darío
Published: July 2018

Although circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) can modulate gene expression and affect immune system response, little is known about their participation in age‐associated frailty syndrome and sarcopenia. The aim of this study was to determine miRNAs as possible biomarkers of age and frailty and their correlation with oxidative and inflammatory state in human blood. Three inflammation‐related miRNAs (miR‐21, miR‐146a, and miR‐223) and one miRNA related with the control of melatonin synthesis (miR‐483) were analyzed. Twenty‐two healthy adults, 34 aged robust, and 40 aged fragile patients were selected for this study. The expression of plasma miRNAs was assessed by RT‐qPCR; plasma cytokines (IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, and TNFα) were analyzed by commercial kits, and plasma advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) and lipid oxidation (LPO) were spectrophotometrically measured. Fragile subjects had higher miR‐21 levels than control subjects, whereas miR‐223 and miR‐483 levels increased at a similar extend in both aged groups. All cytokines measured increased in aged groups compared with controls, without differences between robust and fragile subjects. The fragile group had a TNFα/IL‐10 ratio significantly higher than robust and control groups. Aged groups also had higher AOPP and LPO levels than controls. Women presented higher AOPP and LPO levels and increased expression of miR‐483 compared with men. Positive correlations between miR‐21 and AOPP and between miR‐483 and IL‐8 were detected. The expression of miR‐21 and the TNFα/IL‐10 ratio were correlated positively with the presence of frailty, which suggests that these markers can be considered as possible biomarkers for age‐related frailty.
Ethanol Extract of Lycopus lucidus Turcz. ex Benth Inhibits Metastasis by Downregulation of Runx‐2 in Mouse Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Kim Kwang-Youn , Oh Tae Woo , Ma Jin-Yeul , Park Kwang-Il
Published: July 2018

Lycopus lucidus Turcz. ex Benth (LT) has been broadly used as a traditional medicinal herb in Asia including Korea, China, and Japan due to its noted ability to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis. However, its anticancer mechanism is not understood. This study aims to elucidate the effects of ethanol extracts of LT (ELT) relative to the role of Runt‐related transcription factor‐ (Runx‐) 2 in the invasive and metastatic potentials of mouse colon cancer to determine the underlying mechanisms involved. ELT was evaluated for the antimetastasis activity using CT‐26 colon cancer using wound healing, transwell matrigel, and western blot analysis. We used Runx‐2‐specific siRNA to further determine the relationship between Runx‐2 and matrix metalloprotease‐ (MMP‐) 9 in the migration and invasion of CT‐26 cells. Runx‐2 was first demonstrated to be a transcription factor that plays a remarkable role in diverse biological processes of chondrocytes and osteoblasts, but recently, Runx‐2 has been reported to be associated with the progression of certain human cancers. ELT was not altered in its effects on growth inhibition. However, ELT significantly inhibited wound closure and cell invasion in a dose‐dependent manner. ELT decreased the metastasis by regulating the activity of MMP‐9 and Runx‐2 at the translational levels. Our results demonstrate that ELT decreases metastasis by inhibiting the Runx‐2–MMP‐9 axis. We suggest that it can be used as a novel agent in therapeutic strategies for combating colon cancer.
Cabozantinib Exhibits Potent Antitumor Activity in Colorectal Cancer Patient-Derived Tumor Xenograft Models via Autophagy and Signaling Mechanisms
Authors: Scott Aaron J. , Arcaroli John J. , Bagby Stacey M. , Yahn Rachel , Huber Kendra M. , Serkova Natalie J. , Nguyen Anna , Kim Jihye , Thorburn Andrew , Vogel Jon , Quackenbush Kevin S. , Capasso Anna , Schreiber Anna , Blatchford Patrick , Klauck Peter J. , Pitts Todd M. , Eckhardt S. Gail , Messersmith Wells A.
Published: July 2018

Antiangiogenic therapy used in treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) inevitably succumbs to treatment resistance. Upregulation of MET may play an essential role to acquired anti-VEGF resistance. We previously reported that cabozantinib (XL184), an inhibitor of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) including MET, AXL, and VEGFR2, had potent antitumor effects in mCRC patient-derived tumor explant models. In this study, we examined the mechanisms of cabozantinib sensitivity, using regorafenib as a control. The tumor growth inhibition index (TGII) was used to compare treatment effects of cabozantinib 30 mg/kg daily versus regorafenib 10 mg/kg daily for a maximum of 28 days in 10 PDX mouse models. In vivo angiogenesis and glucose uptake were assessed using dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE)-MRI and [18F]-FDG-PET imaging, respectively. RNA-Seq, RTK assay, and immunoblotting analysis were used to evaluate gene pathway regulation in vivo and in vitro. Analysis of TGII demonstrated significant antitumor effects with cabozantinib compared with regorafenib (average TGII 3.202 vs. 48.48, respectively; P = 0.007). Cabozantinib significantly reduced vascularity and glucose uptake compared with baseline. Gene pathway analysis showed that cabozantinib significantly decreased protein activity involved in glycolysis and upregulated proteins involved in autophagy compared with control, whereas regorafenib did not. The combination of two separate antiautophagy agents, SBI-0206965 and chloroquine, plus cabozantinib increased apoptosis in vitro. Cabozantinib demonstrated significant antitumor activity, reduction in tumor vascularity, increased autophagy, and altered cell metabolism compared with regorafenib. Our findings support further evaluation of cabozantinib and combinational approaches targeting autophagy in colorectal cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(10); 2112–22. ©2018 AACR.
Inhibition of BMI1, a Therapeutic Approach in Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Buechel Megan , Dey Anindya , Dwivedi Shailendra Kumar Dhar , Crim Aleia , Ding Kai , Zhang Roy , Mukherjee Priyabrata , Moore Kathleen N. , Cao Liangxian , Branstrom Arthur , Weetall Marla , Baird John , Bhattacharya Resham
Published: July 2018

With rising incidence rates, endometrial cancer is one of the most common gynecologic malignancies in the United States. Although surgery provides significant survival benefit to early-stage patients, those with advanced or recurrent metastatic disease have a dismal prognosis. Limited treatment options include chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Hence, there is a compelling need for developing molecularly targeted therapy. Here, we show that the polycomb ring finger protein BMI1, also known as a stem cell factor, is significantly overexpressed in endometrial cancer cell lines, endometrial cancer patient tissues as well as in nonendometrioid histologies and associated with poor overall survival. PTC-028, a second-generation inhibitor of BMI1 function, decreases invasion of endometrial cancer cells and potentiates caspase-dependent apoptosis, while normal cells with minimal expression of BMI1 remain unaffected. In an aggressive uterine carcinosarcoma xenograft model, single-agent PTC-028 significantly delayed tumor growth and increased tumor doubling time compared with the standard carboplatin/paclitaxel therapy. Therefore, anti-BMI1 strategies may represent a promising targeted approach in patients with advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer, a population where treatment options are limited. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(10); 2136–43. ©2018 AACR.
Metformin Does Not Affect Clinically Relevant Outcomes in Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Spagnolo Paolo , Kreuter Michael , Maher Toby M. , Wuyts Wim , Bonella Francesco , Corte Tamera J. , Kopf Stefan , Weycker Derek , Kirchgaessler Klaus-Uwe , Ryerson Christopher J.
Published: July 2018

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a possible risk factor for the development of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), yet the effect of antidiabetic therapy on the course of IPF is unknown. Objectives: This post hoc analysis assessed the effect of metformin on clinically relevant outcomes in patients with IPF. Methods: For the primary analysis, patients randomized to placebo (n = 624) in 3 phase 3, double-blind, controlled trials of pirfenidone (CAPACITY [NCT00287716 and NCT00287729]; ASCEND [NCT01366209]) were categorized by baseline metformin use. The primary outcome was disease progression (forced vital capacity [FVC] decline ≥10%, 6-min walking distance [6MWD] decline ≥50 m, or death). Other outcomes included mortality, hospitalization, FVC decline (≥10 and ≥5%), and 6MWD decline. Outcomes were also assessed in patients with diabetes and/or hyperglycemia (impaired glucose tolerance [IGT] and diabetes population [IGT-diabetes population]) and all patients included in the 3 studies (intention-to-treat [ITT] population). Results: Overall, 71 (11.4%) patients were metformin users and 553 (88.6%) were nonmetformin users. Baseline data were similar between groups, except for a higher percentage of males (84.5 vs. 73.2%) and a history of diabetes (98.6 vs. 11.6%) in metformin users versus nonmetformin users. The unadjusted 1-year analyses demonstrated no significant differences in disease progression or other outcomes. A higher proportion of metformin users compared with nonmetformin users had a relative FVC decline of ≥5% (63.4 vs. 50.6%, p = 0.043). Results were similar for the IGT-diabetes population and for the ITT population. Multivariable analyses yielded similar results. Conclusions: Metformin has no effect on clinically relevant outcomes in patients with IPF.
Primary Diffuse B-Cell Thyroid Lymphoma: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Alyami Hassan , Alsofyani Talal , Bu Bshait Mohammed , Al-Osail Emad Mohammed
Published: July 2018

Background: Primary thyroid lymphoma (PTL) is a rare disease, accounting for 5% of all thyroid malignancies. Diffuse B-cell lymphoma (DBCL) is the most common type of PTL. The diagnosis of PTL depends on biopsy results, and its management depends on the histological type. Case Presentation: A 66-year-old female complained of a huge neck mass on the right side that had started growing 3 months previously and was associated with compressive and B symptoms. She had undergone left hemithyroidectomy 20 years previously. On examination, a huge neck mass measuring 10 × 6 cm was detected on the right side that had shifted the trachea to the contralateral side. CT scanning revealed a huge soft tissue mass in the neck with compressive signs. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) showed variably sized lymphocytes and large epithelial cells with occasional atypical cells. Tissue biopsy revealed DBCL, which is suggestive of PTL. Discussion: PTL affects only the thyroid gland and the regional lymph nodes. Most PTL originate from B cells, especially DBCL, which accounts for 50–80% of all PTL. FNA may have limited capability to differentiate between anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid and thyroid lymphoma. If FNA fails to determine PTL tissue, it should be determined using biopsy. A multidisciplinary approach is the best management technique for PTL. Radiotherapy, surgery, or both can be used for local control, while chemotherapy can be used for disseminated or hidden disease. Conclusion: Tissue biopsy is needed to exclude other differential diagnoses, whereas a multidisciplinary approach is needed to manage PTL.
A Novel Mutation of KIF11 in a Child with 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome Associated with MCLMR
Authors: Güneş Nilay , Taşdemir Emre , Jeffery Heather , Yetik Hüseyin , Ostergaard Pia , Tüysüz Beyhan
Published: July 2018

Microcephaly with or without chorioretinopathy, lymphedema, or mental retardation (MCLMR; OMIM 152950) is a rare autosomal dominantly inherited syndrome. Mutations in the kinesin family member 11 (KIF11) gene have been associated with this condition. Here, we report a de novo novel heterozygous missense mutation in exon 12 of the KIF11 gene [c.1402T>G; p.(Leu468Val)] in a boy with 22q11.2 microdeletion syndrome. His major features were microcephaly, ventricular septal defect, congenital lymphedema of the feet, and distinct facial appearance including upslanting palpebral fissures, a broad nose with rounded tip, anteverted nares, long philtrum with a thin upper lip, pointed chin, and prominent ears. His right eye was enucleated due to subretinal hemorrhage and retinal detachment at age 3 months. Lacunae of chorioretinal atrophy and the pale optic disc were present in the left eye. He also had a de novo 1.6-Mb microdeletion in the Di George/VCFS region of chromosome 22q11.2 in SNP array, which was confirmed by FISH analysis. In this study, for the first time, we describe the co-occurrence of a KIF11 mutation and 22q11.2 deletion syndrome in a patient with MCLMR.
Role of FGF-2 Transfected Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Engineered Bone Tissue for Repair of Avascular Necrosis of Femoral Head in Rabbits
Authors: Zhang Fei , Peng Wu-xun  , Wang Lei , Zhang Jian , Dong Wen-tao , Wu Jian-hua , Zhang Huai , Wang Jian-bo , Zhao Yin
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: Avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) is the focus and difficulty of orthopedic diseases. Recently, tissue engineering bone for this disease has shown a good therapeutic effect. The aim of the present study was to investigate the therapeutic effect of basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) as cytokines transfected bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) in constructing tissue-engineered bone for avascular necrosis of the femoral head. Methods: The FGF-2 gene overexpressed lentivirus-transfected rBMSCs with xenogeneic antigen-extracted cancellous bone (XACB) to construct tissue engineered bone, and the model of early avascular necrosis of the femoral head was established by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) combined with hormone. The models were randomly divided into five groups: A (control), B (XACB), C (XACB+rBMSCs), D (XACB+rBMSCs+Lv-GFP), and E (XACB+rBMSCs+Lv-FGF-2/GFP) groups. The therapeutic effect of the tissue engineered bone for the avascular necrosis of the femoral head was evaluated by gross anatomy, X-ray examination, immunohistochemistry and H&E staining. Results: The FGF-2 gene was transfected into rBMSCs (Multiplicity of infection [MOI] = 100) by lentivirus, and its efficiency was above 95%. The rBMSCs were successfully transfected overexpressing FGF-2 by qPCR and western blot. After tissue engineering bone implantation, X-ray examination and gross specimen observation revealed that the repair area in the E group was > 80% at six weeks, the defect was completely repaired at 12 weeks, and osteogenesis was stronger, when compared with the other groups. For the X-ray score, vascular area density and new bone formation area were higher, when compared with the other groups, and the difference was statistically significant (P< 0.05). Conclusion: FGF-2 gene overexpression lentivirus transfection BMSCs combined with XACB to construct tissue engineered bone can effectively promote vascular regeneration, and improve the repair effect of avascular necrosis of the femoral head.