bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study of nuclear structure properties of even and odd 103–140Sb, 105–143Te, 107–145I, 109–148Xe and 112–151Cs nuclei in the axial deformation
Authors: Artun Ozan
Published: August 2018

We investigated ground-state nuclear structure properties of even and odd [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] nuclei via the axially deformed solution of Skyrme Hartree–Fock Bogoliubov (HFB) based on the transformed harmonic oscillator (THO) and the harmonic oscillator. In the calculations, different Skyrme force parameters were used to obtain wide nuclear data of the nuclei. The calculated results were compared with the results of the experimental data and theoretical models, i.e., the finite-range liquid-drop model (FRDM) and relativistic mean-field theory (RMFT). Additionally, the deformation regions of neutron rich Sb, Te, I, Xe and Cs nuclei have also been discussed. Moreover, in addition to the binding energy per particle, charge, proton and neutron density radii, one-neutron [Formula: see text], and two-neutron separation energies [Formula: see text], the quadropule deformation parameter [Formula: see text], the neutron skin thicknesses (NST), the quadrupole moments [Formula: see text] and the pairing gap energies of the nuclei were determined by HFBTHO 2.00 code.
Seismic Interaction between a Lined Tunnel and a Hill under Plane SV Waves by IBEM
Authors: Liu Zhongxian , Zhang Hai , Cheng Alexander , Wu Chengqing , Yang Guogang
Published: August 2018

This paper investigates the dynamic interaction between a lined tunnel and a hill under plane SV waves using the indirect boundary element method (IBEM), with the displacement and stress characteristics of the system presented in frequency domain. The IBEM has several unique advantages such as reducing calculation dimension, automatically satisfying the infinite radiation condition, etc. The numerical results indicated that the dynamic response of the tunnel–hill system is strongly dependent on incident wave characteristics, geometrical and material properties of the lined tunnel, as well as the topography of the hill. For a dimension ratio between the hill and tunnel of less than 10.0, the lined tunnel has large amplification or deamplification effect on the dynamic response of the hill. Correspondingly, the hill also greatly amplifies the displacement and stress concentration of the tunnel especially in the lower-frequency range, due to the complicated interference effect among the reflected waves and diffracted waves induced by the tunnel and hill. Also demonstrated is that the displacement and stress amplitude spectrums highly depend on the incident frequency and the space location, and there exist multiple peaks and troughs in the spectrum curve with the peaks usually appearing in the low-frequency range. Thus, for the seismic safety assessment of a hill slope or hill tunnel in practice, the dynamic interaction within the tunnel–hill system should be taken into consideration.
Periodic orbits in virtually contact structures
Authors: Bae Youngjin , Wiegand Kevin , Zehmisch Kai
Published: August 2018

We prove that certain non-exact magnetic Hamiltonian systems on products of closed hyperbolic surfaces and with a potential function of large oscillation admit non-constant contractible periodic solutions of energy below the Mañé critical value. For that we develop a theory of holomorphic curves in symplectizations of non-compact contact manifolds that arise as the covering space of a virtually contact structure whose contact form is bounded with all derivatives up to order three.
Facile preparation of BiOCl/Ti3C2 hybrid photocatalyst with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity
Authors: Lian Weiwei , Wang Libo , Wang Xiaolong , Shen Changjie , Zhou Aiguo , Hu Qianku
Published: August 2018

In the present work, a novel BiOCl/Ti3C2 nanostructured composite was synthesized using a simple precipitation method. The morphology and structure of the nanocomposite were characterized while its photocatalytic properties were studied using methyl orange dye (MO) as the model pollutant under visible-light irradiation. The results indicated that the obtained BiOCl has flower-like nanostructured morphology, which is composed of nanosheets. After the introduction of Ti3C2, the petaloid-shaped BiOCl grew on the surface layers of Ti3C2. Additionally, the photocatalytic degradation tests of MO showed that the BiOCl/Ti3C2 nanocomposite had a much higher degradation efficiency compared to that of the pristine BiOCl. Herein, a possible photocatalytic mechanism for BiOCl/Ti3C2 nanocomposites was also proposed. The results suggest that the Ti3C2 addition can effectively promote the photoelectron separation from vacancies, which leads to photocatalytic activity enhancement of the BiOCl/Ti3C2 composite.
Generating Islamic Quasi-Periodic Patterns
Authors: Khamjane Aziz , Benslimane Rachid
Published: August 2018

The discovery of quasi-crystals has led to a great debate about their unusual structure. The big surprise is that these structures were found in Islamic art several centuries ago. This latest discovery drew the attention of scientists to propose several approaches for the comprehension of these structures by analyzing several quasi-periodic patterns spread around the Islamic world. In this article, we propose a systematic method for generating new quasi-periodic patterns inspired by existing Islamic historical patterns. The method builds Islamic quasi-periodic patterns based on a quasi-periodic tiling and a few intuitive parameters. Given a quasi-periodic tiling, the method divides its tiles (rhombs) into symmetric right triangles and constructs their template motifs. The construction of these template motifs is achieved by a systematic and well-organized process. The content of the tiles is obtained by applying mirror reflections to the constructed template motifs. Finally, the pattern is drawn by putting the content of the constructed tiles in the tiling. To show the effectiveness of this generative method, examples of new quasi-periodic patterns will be presented.
On Disturbance Rejection for a Class of Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Wei Wei
Published: August 2018

System control techniques have been developing for a long time. For advanced system requirements, sophisticated control algorithms are necessary for the nonlinear systems with uncertainties and disturbances. Disturbance attenuation or rejection control has been attracting an increasing attention from both control theory researchers and control engineering practitioners. In this paper, a new disturbance rejection control is proposed. Controllable canonical form is taken as the standard form of system dynamics, and a disturbance observer is taken to estimate the discrepancy between system dynamics and its standard form. Then the discrepancy could be compensated by control laws. Conditions of the closed‐loop stability and ultimate bound of the tracking error have been obtained. Numerical results have also been presented to support the proposed approach.
The Ability of Quantitative, Specific, and Sensitive Point-of-Care/Chair-Side Oral Fluid Immunotests for aMMP-8 to Detect Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases
Authors: Alassiri Saeed , Parnanen Pirjo , Rathnayake Nilminie , Johannsen Gunnar , Heikkinen Anna-Maria , Lazzara Richard , van der Schoor Peter , van der Schoor Jan Gerrit , Tervahartiala Taina , Gieselmann Dirk , Sorsa Timo
Published: August 2018

The analysis of the disease-specific oral and systemic biomarkers in saliva and oral fluids (i.e., mouth rinse, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), and peri-implantitis fluid (PISF)) is demanding. Several hosts and microbial factors may influence their expression, release, and levels. The type of saliva/oral fluids utilized for the diagnostics affects the analysis. High sensitivity and specificities together with sophisticated methods and techniques are essential for valuable outcome. We describe here recently developed practical, convenient, inexpensive, noninvasive, and quantitative mouth rinse and PISF/GCF/chair-side/point-of-care (PoC) lateral-flow aMMP-8 immunoassays (PerioSafe and ImplantSafe/ORALyser) to detect, predict, and monitor successfully the course, treatment, and prevention of periodontitis and peri-implantitis, respectively. The tests have been independently and successfully validated to differentiate periodontal and peri-implant health and disease in Finland, Germany, Netherland, Sweden, Turkey, Nigeria, Malawi, and USA. The clinical use of salivary/oral fluid biomarkers to identify oral and systemic conditions requires additional studies utilizing these noninvasive screening, diagnostic, and preventive aMMP-8 PoC/chair-side technologies.
MicroRNA-9 Enhanced Cisplatin Sensitivity in Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer Cells by Regulating Eukaryotic Translation Initiation Factor 5A2
Authors: Pan Qiaoling , Sun Lebo , Zheng Dawei , Li Ni , Shi Huoshun , Song Jie , Shao Guofeng , Xu Guodong
Published: August 2018

We determined the role of microRNA (miR)-9 in regulating cisplatin chemoresistance in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. miR-9 and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 5A2 (eIF5A2) levels were examined by reverse transcription–quantitative PCR. Cell Counting Kit-8 and the 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay were used to determine the effects of miR-9 mimic or inhibitor on NSCLC cell proliferation and viability, respectively. Bioinformatics was used to analyze the relationship between miR-9 and eIF5A2. Flow cytometry was used to analyze the percentage of apoptotic cells. miR-9 mimic enhanced cisplatin sensitivity, while miR-9 inhibitor produced the opposite result. eIF5A2 was identified as a potential target of miR-9, where miR-9 regulated eIF5A2 expression at mRNA and protein level. miR-9 mimic decreased the expression of eIF5A2 mRNA and protein, while miR-9 inhibitor increased eIF5A2 expression. eIF5A2 knockdown resolved the effects of miR-9 mimic or inhibitor on cisplatin sensitivity. miR-9 may be a potential biomarker for enhancing cisplatin sensitivity by regulating eIF5A2 in NSCLC cells.
Protective Role of Carbonic Anhydrases III and VII in Cellular Defense Mechanisms upon Redox Unbalance
Authors: Di Fiore Anna , Monti Daria M. , Scaloni Andrea , De Simone Giuseppina , Monti Simona M.
Published: August 2018

Under oxidative stress conditions, several constitutive cellular defense systems are activated, which involve both enzymatic systems and molecules with antioxidant properties such as glutathione and vitamins. In addition, proteins containing reactive sulfhydryl groups may eventually undergo reversible redox modifications whose products act as protective shields able to avoid further permanent molecular oxidative damage either in stressful conditions or under pathological circumstances. After the recovery of normal redox conditions, the reduced state of protein sulfhydryl groups is restored. In this context, carbonic anhydrases (CAs) III and VII, which are human metalloenzymes catalyzing the reversible hydration of carbon dioxide to bicarbonate and proton, have been identified to play an antioxidant role in cells where oxidative damage occurs. Both proteins are mainly localized in tissues characterized by a high rate of oxygen consumption, and contain on their molecular surface two reactive cysteine residues eventually undergoing S‐glutathionylation. Here, we will provide an overview on the molecular and functional features of these proteins highlighting their implications into molecular processes occurring during oxidative stress conditions.
Characterization and Digital Restauration of XIV-XV Centuries Written Parchments by Means of Nondestructive Techniques: Three Case Studies
Authors: Pronti L. , Perino M. , Cursi M. , Santarelli M. L. , Felici A. C. , Bracciale M. P.
Published: August 2018

Parchment is the primary writing medium of the majority of documents with cultural importance. Unfortunately, this material suffers of several mechanisms of degradation that affect its chemical-physical structure and the readability of text. Due to the unique and delicate character of these objects, the use of nondestructive techniques is mandatory. In this work, three partially degraded handwritten parchments dating back to the XIV-XV centuries were analyzed by means of X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, µ-ATR Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and reflectance and UV-induced fluorescence spectroscopy. The elemental and molecular results provided the identification of the inks, pigments, and superficial treatments. In particular, all manuscripts have been written with iron gall inks, while the capital letters have been realized with cinnabar and azurite. Furthermore, multispectral UV fluorescence imaging and multispectral VIS-NIR imaging proved to be a good approach for the digital restoration of manuscripts that suffer from the loss of inked areas or from the presence of brown spotting. Indeed, using ultraviolet radiation and collecting the images at different spectral ranges is possible to enhance the readability of the text, while by illuminating with visible light and by collecting the images at longer wavelengths, the hiding effect of brown spots can be attenuated.
Diagnostic Performance of Red Cell Distribution Width in Adult Iraqi Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Gorial Faiq I. , Hassan Ali M.
Published: August 2018

Background. Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic, progressive inflammatory rheumatic disease that leads to structural damage, functional impairment, and decrease in the quality of life. Red cell distribution width (RDW) is a part of the complete blood count (CBC) and estimates erythrocyte variability.Objective. To analyse RDW in patients with AS and to evaluate the relationships with acute phase reactants (APRs) and disease activity index.Patients and Methods. A total of 100 patients with AS (78 males and 22 females) were diagnosed according to the modified New York classification criteria for AS and 146 (99 males: 47 females) healthy individuals matched in age and sex as controls enrolled in the study. Demographic data, disease activity scores using Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), medical history, C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocytes sedimentation rate (ESR), and complete blood count (CBC) were measured.Results. The mean age for patients and controls was 38.0 ± 9.0 and 35.8 ± 9.0 years, respectively (p=0.057). RDW was significantly higher in patients with AS compared with controls (14.133 ± 1.613 versus 12.299 ± 1.031, p < 0.001). There was a direct correlation of RDW with both ESR and CRP (P < 0.001); RDW had r=0.38 for C-reactive protein (CRP) and r=0.413 for ESR. Also BASDAI was directly correlated with RDW (r=0.326 p<0.001). RDW was a valid measure to differentiate between patients with AS and controls (AUC=0,84, p<0.001) and at optimum cut-off value>13% has highest accuracy (78.9%) with very good sensitivity test (81%) and NPV (85.6%) as well as good specificity (77.4%) and PPV (71.1%).Conclusion. RDW was higher in AS patients compared with controls and was directly correlated with ESR, CRP, and BASDAI. RDW was a valid simple measure with good accuracy to differentiate between patients with AS and controls.
Robust Fault Diagnosis and Adaptive Parameter Identification for Single Phase Transformerless Inverters
Authors: Li Jian , Guo Xinxin , Li Bo
Published: August 2018

The paper presents the theoretical analysis and simulation verification of robust fault diagnosis and adaptive parameter identification for single phase transformerless inverters. The fault diagnosis is composed of two parts, fault detection and fault identification. In the fault detection part, a Luenberger observer is designed to realize the detection of faults. Then, we apply a bank of observers to identify the location of faults. Meanwhile, the fault identification observers based estimation along with a gradient descent algorithm are also used in the parameter identification to estimate the actual values of components in a single phase transformerless inverter. Not only we develop the design methodology for the robust fault diagnosis and adaptive parameter identifier but also we present simulation results. The simulation results show the effectiveness of fault diagnosis and the accurate tracking of changes in component parameters for a wide range.
Reducing Phenolics Related to Bitterness in Table Olives
Authors: Johnson Rebecca L. , Mitchell Alyson E.
Published: August 2018

Olives are one of the oldest food products in human civilization. Over the centuries, numerous methods have been developed to transform olives from a bitter drupe into an edible fruit. Methods of processing table olives rely on the acid, base, and/or enzymatic hydrolysis of bitter phenolic compounds naturally present in the fruit into nonbitter hydrolysis products. Today, there are three primary methods of commercial table olive processing: the Greek, Spanish, and Californian methods, in addition to several Artisanal methods. This review focuses on the technological, microbiological, chemical, and sensory aspects of table olive processing and the inherent benefits and drawbacks of each method. The table olive industry is facing challenges of environmental sustainability and increased consumer demand for healthier products. Herein, we examine current research on novel technologies that aim to address these issues.
Astilbe chinensis Modulates Platelet Function via Impaired MAPK and PLCγ2 Expression
Authors: Jeon Bo-Ra , Irfan Muhammad , Lee Seung Eun , Lee Jeong Hoon , Rhee Man Hee
Published: August 2018

Background. Platelets play major role in maintaining hemostasis while hyperactivation of platelets may lead to arterial thrombosis. Natural products and ethnomedicine have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Astilbe chinensis is a perennial herb found in China, Korea, Russia, and Japan, which is also known for its medicinal effects, and has been used in Korean traditional medicine to treat inflammation, cancer, chronic bronchitis, and headache. We hypothesized that given herbal plant exhibits pharmacological activities against CVDs, and we specifically explored their effects on platelet function. Methodology. Platelet aggregation was evaluated using standard light‐transmission aggregometry. Intracellular calcium mobilization was assessed using Fura‐2/AM, and granule secretion (ATP release) was measured in a luminometer. Fibrinogen binding to integrin αIIb β3 was assessed using flow cytometry. Phosphorylation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling molecules and activation of the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt were assessed using western blots, and further, glycoprotein VI (GPVI) signaling components were studied using immunoprecipitation. Key Results. A. chinensis extracts potently and significantly inhibited platelet aggregation, calcium mobilization, granule secretion, and fibrinogen binding to integrin αIIb β3. Moreover, it significantly inhibited MAPK phosphorylation and expression of GPVI downstream signaling molecules. Conclusion. A. chinensis extract inhibited platelet aggregation and granule secretion and attenuated GPVI downstream signaling, indicating the potential therapeutic effects of this plant extract on the cardiovascular system and platelet function. We suggest that given plant extract may be a potent candidate to treat platelet‐related CVDs and to be used as antiplatelet agent.
New Integrated Guidance and Control of Homing Missiles with an Impact Angle against a Ground Target
Authors: Yang Shengjiang , Guo Jianguo , Zhou Jun
Published: August 2018

A new integrated guidance and control (IGC) law is investigated for a homing missile with an impact angle against a ground target. Firstly, a control-oriented model with impact angle error of the IGC system in the pitch plane is formulated by linear coordinate transformation according to the motion kinematics and missile dynamics model. Secondly, an IGC law is proposed to satisfy the impact angle constraint and to improve the rapidity of the guidance and control system by combining the sliding mode control method and nonlinear extended disturbance observer technique. Thirdly, stability of the closed-loop guidance and control system is proven based on the Lyapunov stability theory, and the relationship between the accuracy of the impact angle and the estimate errors of nonlinear disturbances is derived from stability of the sliding mode. Finally, simulation results confirm that the proposed IGC law can improve the performance of the missile guidance and control system against a ground target.
Identity‐Based Fast Authentication Scheme for Smart Mobile Devices in Body Area Networks
Authors: Wang Chen , Zheng Wenying , Ji Sai , Liu Qi , Wang Anxi
Published: August 2018

Smart mobile devices are one of the core components of the wireless body area networks (WBANs). These devices shoulder the important task of collecting, integrating, and transmitting medical data. When a personal computer collects information from these devices, it needs to authenticate the identity of them. Some effective schemes have been put forward to the device authentication in WBANs. However, few researchers have studied the WBANs device authentication in emergency situations. In this paper, we present a novel system named emergency medical system without the assistance of doctors. Based on the system, we propose an identity‐based fast authentication scheme for smart mobile devices in WBANs. The scheme can shorten the time of device authentication in an emergency to achieve fast authentication. The analysis of this paper proves the security and efficiency of the proposed scheme.
Moisture Transfer Model and Simulation for Dehumidification of HTGR Core
Authors: Li Jun , Zhang Zhenzhong , Meng Yingchao , Yin Huaqiang , Ma Shengchao , He Xuedong , Yang Xingtuan , Jiang Shengyao
Published: August 2018

A large number of carbon materials are adopted in high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR). These carbon materials mainly include graphite IG-110 and boron-containing carbon material (BC), both of which are typical porous materials and normally absorb moisture. In order to inhibit the chemical corrosion reaction between core internals materials and moisture, the core needs to be strictly dehumidified before the reactor is put into operation. This paper mainly analyzed the moisture transfer mechanism in these carbon materials. Moisture transfer models were developed, and the dehumidification process of HTR-PM core was simulated. In addition, the influence of working temperature and system pressure on dehumidification was studied as well.
Protective Effect of Jianpiyifei II Granule against Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease via NF‐κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Fan Long , Chen Ruifeng , Li Leng , Liang Ziyao , Yu Xuhua , Huang Kai , Yin Shuomiao , Wu Lei , Chen Yuanbin , Xu Yinji , Wang Qi , Lin Lin
Published: August 2018

Jianpiyifei II granule (JPYF II) is an oriental herbal formula used clinically in China to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of the present study was to investigate the anti‐inflammatory and antioxidative activities of JPYF II in a mouse model of COPD induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and cigarette smoke (CS) and in RAW264.7 cells stimulated with cigarette smoke extract (CSE). Mice were given LPS via intratracheal instillation on days 1 and 15 and exposed to CS generated from 4 cigarettes/day for 28 days. The mice were treated with 0.75, 1.5, or 3 g/kg/d JPYF II by intragastric administration in low, middle, and high dose groups, respectively, for two weeks. RAW264.7 cells were stimulated by CSE and treated with JPYF II at doses of 12.5, 25, or 50 μg/mL. In the mouse model of LPS and CS‐induced COPD, JPYF II decreased inflammatory cell counts in broncho alveolar lavage fluid (BALF), in addition to mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines and metalloproteinases (MMPs) in lung tissues. In addition, JPYF II elevated catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) activities and reduced the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and IκBα and p65 phosphorylation and inflammatory cell infiltration in the lung tissues. In RAW264.7 cells stimulated with CSE, JPYF II inhibited the mRNA levels of inflammatory mediators and the phosphorylation of IκBα and p65. Our results suggest that JPYF II enhanced anti‐inflammatory and antioxidative activities in a mouse model of COPD induced by LPS and CS and in RAW264.7 cells stimulated with CSE via inhibition of the NF‐κB pathway.
Medial Migration of a Broken Trochanteric Cable
Authors: Karaismailoglu Bedri , Karaismailoglu Turgut Nedim
Published: August 2018

Background. Cerclage wires or cables are commonly being used in hip reconstruction procedures like primary (especially in patients with developmental hip dysplasia) or revision arthroplasty. Local or distant migration of a broken cable or wire is a complication that might lead to devastating situations depending on the route of migration.Case Presentation. We report a case of a 40-year-old female who underwent bilateral total hip arthroplasty surgery due to bilateral developmental hip dysplasia. Trochanteric osteotomy was needed in her right hip to advance trochanter major distally. Trochanteric fixation was achieved by a cerclage cable system. Four years after the surgery, the patient referred to the hospital with a prominence and pain in her right inguinal area. Radiographies revealed medial migration of a broken trochanteric cable part. The possible route of the cable was through medial adductor muscles, posterior to the femoral neurovascular bundle and anterior to the sciatic nerve. Both migrated and remaining parts of the cable were extracted under general anesthesia.Conclusion. Broken cables should be followed carefully due to their sharpness and possible serious complications secondary to distant migration. Extraction might be inevitable in case of a close relation with neurovascular structures.
Exact Solutions with Variable Coefficient Function Forms for Conformable Fractional Partial Differential Equations by an Auxiliary Equation Method
Authors: Meng Fanwei , Feng Qinghua
Published: August 2018

In this paper, an auxiliary equation method is introduced for seeking exact solutions expressed in variable coefficient function forms for fractional partial differential equations, where the concerned fractional derivative is defined by the conformable fractional derivative. By the use of certain fractional transformation, the fractional derivative in the equations can be converted into integer order case with respect to a new variable. As for applications, we apply this method to the time fractional two-dimensional Boussinesq equation and the space-time fractional (2+1)-dimensional breaking soliton equation. As a result, some exact solutions including variable coefficient function solutions as well as solitary wave solutions for the two equations are found.
Neuropeptides SP and CGRP Diminish theMoraxella catarrhalisOuter Membrane Vesicle- (OMV-) Triggered Inflammatory Response of Human A549 Epithelial Cells and Neutrophils
Authors: Augustyniak Daria , Roszkowiak Justyna , Wiśniewska Izabela , Skała Jacek , Gorczyca Daiva , Drulis-Kawa Zuzanna
Published: August 2018

Neuropeptides such as substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) play both pro- and anti-inflammatory activities and are produced during infection and inflammation.Moraxella catarrhalisis one of the leading infectious agents responsible for inflammatory exacerbation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Since the airway inflammation in COPD is connected with activation of both epithelial cells and accumulated neutrophils, in this study we determined thein vitroeffects of neuropeptides on the inflammatory potential of these cells in response toM. catarrhalisouter membrane vesicle (OMV) stimulant. The various OMV-mediated proinflammatory effects were demonstrated. Next, using hBD-2-pGL4[luc2] plasmid with luciferase reporter gene, SP and CGRP were shown to inhibit the IL-1β-dependent expression of potent neutrophil chemoattractant, hBD-2 defensin, in transfected A549 epithelial cells (type II alveolar cells) upon OMV stimulation. Both neuropeptides exerted antiapoptotic activity through rescuing a significant fraction of A549 cells from OMV-induced cell death and apoptosis. Finally, CGRP caused an impairment of specific but not azurophilic granule exocytosis from neutrophils as shown by evaluation of gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) or CD66b expression and elastase release, respectively. Concluding, these findings suggest that SP and CGRP mediate the dampening of proinflammatory action triggered byM. catarrhalisOMVs towards cells engaged in lung inflammationin vitro.
Combining PLGA Scaffold and MSCs for Brain Tissue Engineering: A Potential Tool for Treatment of Brain Injury
Authors: Zhou Ling , Tu Jiangyi , Fang Guangbi , Deng Li , Gao Xiaoqing , Guo Kan , Kong Jiming , Lv Jing , Guan Weikang , Yang Chaoxian
Published: August 2018

Nerve tissue engineering is an important strategy for the treatment of brain injuries. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation has been proven to be able to promote repair and functional recovery of brain damage, and poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) has also been found to have the capability of bearing cells. In the present study, to observe the ability of PLGA scaffold in supporting the adherent growth of MSCs and neurons in vivo and vitro and to assess the effects of PLGA scaffold on proliferation and neural differentiation of MSCs, this study undertakes the following steps. First, MSCs and neurons were cultured and labeled with green fluorescent protein (GFP) or otherwise identified and the PLGA scaffold was synthesized. Next, MSCs and neurons were inoculated on PLGA scaffolds and their adhesion rates were investigated and the proliferation of MSCs was evaluated by using MTT assay. After MSCs were induced by a neural induction medium, the morphological change and neural differentiation of MSCs were detected using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and immunocytochemistry, respectively. Finally, cell migration and adhesion in the PLGA scaffold in vivo were examined by immunohistochemistry, nuclear staining, and SEM. The experimental results demonstrated that PLGA did not interfere with the proliferation and neural differentiation of MSCs and that MSCs and neuron could grow and migrate in PLGA scaffold. These data suggest that the MSC-PLGA complex may be used as tissue engineering material for brain injuries.
The Adult Sensory Profile™ in Care Homes Targeting People Diagnosed with Dementia: A Qualitative Study from the Care Provider Perspective
Authors: Ravn Maiken Bay , Klingberg Tinna , Petersen Kirsten Schultz
Published: August 2018

Introduction. The background of this study is the pilot testing of the Adolescent /Adult Sensory Profile (A/ASP) in dementia units at municipal nursing homes. Based on the results from therapists’ A/ASP assessment, recommendations are made according to individual needs and forwarded to the health care providers. This study looks into the health care providers’ perspective on the usability of these recommendations. Aim. The aim of this qualitative study is to explore the health care providers’ perspective on the usability of recommendations derived from the A/ASP during a pilot testing of the profile in dementia units for people living with severe dementia. Methods. Participant observations and informal and formal interviews with health care providers at five municipal dementia units during the pilot testing of the A/ASP. Results. In the health care provider perspective, the A/ASP is a relevant and useful tool to use when behavioural challenges among residents living with dementia occur. However, in their opinion, it requires time, adjustment, and further education if recommendations are to be fully implemented in everyday practice at the dementia units.
SINS/OD Integrated Navigation Algorithm Based on Body Frame Position Increment for Land Vehicles
Authors: Chen He , Zhang Zhili , Zhou Zhaofa , Liu Pengpeng , Guo Qi
Published: August 2018

It is a challenge to achieve high accuracy navigation for land vehicles without the aid of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). Inertial measurement unit (IMU) and odometer (OD) are widely deployed due to their complementary properties. In this paper, SINS/OD integrated navigation algorithm based on body frame position increment is studied to improve the navigation performance. Taking the calibration errors of odometer scale factor, IMU installation angle, and lever arm into consideration, the odometer measurement model is derived. Then measurement equations based on body frame position increment are proposed to overcome the amplified random errors in the traditional velocity observation approach. Odometer fault detection and exception are conducted based on residual χ2 detection method, with the nonholonomic constraints of land vehicles applied to mitigate the standalone SINS error drift. Long distance real test is carried out using laser gyro SINS to assess the proposed algorithm, which shows that navigation performance can be effectively improved.
Household Food Insecurity and Psychosocial Dysfunction in Ecuadorian Elementary Schoolchildren
Authors: Weigel M. Margaret , Armijos Rodrigo X.
Published: August 2018

Household food insecurity (HFI) is a major global public health and pediatric concern due to its reported association with adverse child nutrition, growth, and health outcomes. Psychosocial dysfunction is a major cause of childhood disability. US and Canadian studies have linked HFI to poorer overall psychosocial dysfunction and specific dysfunction types in school-aged children, i.e., internalizing, externalizing, and attention behaviors. However, it is uncertain whether prior findings are generalizable to low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings. We conducted a cross-sectional study to explore the association of HFI with psychosocial dysfunction in 6-12-year-old public elementary schoolchildren (n=279) residing in low-income neighborhoods in Quito, Ecuador. Maternal caregivers were interviewed to obtain data on child psychosocial dysfunction (Pediatric Symptom Checklist, PSC), food security (Household Food Security Survey Module), and maternal mental health (SF-36 Mental Composite Summary). Capillary blood samples were obtained from child participants to measure hemoglobin levels. The data were analyzed using general linear models with adjustment for covariates. The results revealed that HFI was associated with significantly higher overall average PSC scores (p=0.002) and with internalizing (p=0.001) and externalizing (p=0.03) but not attention subscale scores. However, anemia was independently associated with PSC attention subscale scores (p=0.015). This is the first study to report on the relationship between HFI and psychosocial dysfunction in school-aged children in a LMIC setting. It highlights the importance of improving policies and programs protecting vulnerable households from HFI. In addition to improving health and nutrition, such improvements could potentially reduce the burden of child psychosocial dysfunction.
An Efficient Multi-Scale Local Binary Fitting-Based Level Set Method for Inhomogeneous Image Segmentation
Authors: Wang Dengwei
Published: August 2018

An efficient level set model based on multiscale local binary fitting (MLBF) is proposed for image segmentation. By introducing multiscale idea into the LBF model, the proposed MLBF model can effectively and efficiently segment images with intensity inhomogeneity. In addition, by adding a reaction diffusion term into the level set evolution (LSE) equation, the regularization of the level set function (LSF) can be achieved, thus completely eliminating the time-consuming reinitialization process. In the implementation phase, in order to greatly improve the efficiency of the numerical solution of the level set segmentation model, we introduce three strategies: The first is the additive operator splitting (AOS) solver which is used for breaking the restrictions on time step; the second is the salient target detection mechanism which is used to achieve full automatic initialization of the LSE process; the third is the sparse filed method (SFM) which is used to restrict the groups of pixels that need to be updated in a small strip region. Under the combined effect of these three strategies, the proposed model achieves very high execution efficiency in the following aspects: contour location accuracy, speed of evolution convergence, robustness against initial contour position, and robustness against noise interference.
Analytical Methods to Characterize and Purify Polymeric Nanoparticles
Authors: Fornaguera Cristina , Solans Conxita
Published: August 2018

Advances in polymeric nanoparticles as novel nanomedicines have opened a new class of diagnostic and therapeutic tools for many diseases. However, although the benchtop research studies in the nanoworld are numerous, their translation to currently marketed products is still limited. This lack of transference can be attributed, among other factors, to problems with nanomedicine characterization. Characterization techniques at the nanoscale could be divided in three categories: characterization of physicochemical properties (e.g., size and surface charge), characterization of nanomaterials interactions with biological components (e.g., proteins from the blood), and analytical characterization and purification methods. Currently available literature of this last group only describes methodologies applied for a specific type of nanomaterial or even methods used for bulk materials, which are not completely applicable to nanomaterials. For this reason, the current review aims to become a scholastic guide for those scientists starting in the nanoworld, giving them a description of analytical characterization techniques aimed to analyze polymers forming nanoparticles and possible forms to purify them before being used in preclinical and clinical applications.
A Note on the Regularity of the Two-Dimensional One-Sided Hardy-Littlewood Maximal Function
Authors: Liu Feng , Xu Lei
Published: August 2018

We investigate the regularity properties of the two-dimensional one-sided Hardy-Littlewood maximal operator. We point out that the above operator is bounded and continuous on the Sobolev spaces Ws,p(R2) for 0≤s≤1 and 1<p<∞. More importantly, we establish the sharp boundedness and continuity for the discrete two-dimensional one-sided Hardy-Littlewood maximal operator from l1(Z2) to BV(Z2). Here BV(Z2) denotes the set of all functions of bounded variation on Z2.
Weighted Voronoi Diagram-Based Simulation and Comparative Analysis of Ecosystem Service Coverage: Case Study of the Zhongyuan Urban Agglomeration
Authors: Zhang Pengyan , Jing Wenlong , Chen Yunzeng
Published: August 2018

The future of ecology lies on the promotion of eco-economy, a resource saving and environment-friendly society, and the research of ecosystem services. This article applied weighted Voronoi diagram to simulate the ecosystem service capacity in Zhongyuan Urban Agglomeration, China, using remote sensing and geographic information systems. The results show that (1) compared with the traditional Voronoi diagram, the weighted Voronoi diagram expresses more accurate on the ecosystem service range, (2) the total value of the ecosystem service in the study area was 575.7 billion yuan in 2015.The maximum value was about 253.8 billion yuan greater than the minimum value. The unit forest ecosystem has been improved after the coefficient was modified, and the value of ecosystem services reached 32,638.87 yuan/hm2, (3) the service value of construction ecosystem has a great effect on the total value of ecosystem services; the overall pulldown effect of Kaifeng City is most considerable, and (4) the region with strong ecosystem service capacity has strong effect in annexing the nearby areas with weak ecosystem service capacity. And the distance of the annexing is inversely proportional. The closer the distance is, the stronger the annex will be.
Particle Disposition in the Realistic Airway Tree Models of Subjects with Tracheal Bronchus and COPD
Authors: Zhang Baihua , Qi Shouliang , Yue Yong , Shen Jing , Li Chen , Qian Wei , Wu Jianlin
Published: August 2018

Dispositions of inhalable particles in the human respiratory tract trigger and exacerbate airway inflammatory diseases. However, the particle deposition (PD) in airway of subjects with tracheal bronchus (TB) and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) is unknown. We therefore propose to clarify the disrupted PD associated with TB and COPD using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. Totally nine airway tree models are included. Six are extracted from CT images of different individuals (two with TB, two with COPD, and two healthy controls (HC)). The others are the artificially modified models (AMMs) generated by the virtual lesion. Specifically, they are constructed through artificially adding a tracheal bronchus or a stenosis on one HC model. The deposition efficiency (DE) and deposition fraction (DF) in these models are obtained by the Euler-Lagrange approach, analyzed, and compared across models, locations, and particle sizes (0.1-10.0 micrometers). It is found that the PD in models with TB and COPD has been disrupted by the geometrical changes and followed airflow alternations. DE of the tracheal bronchus is higher for TB models. For COPD, the stenosis location determines the effects on DE and DF. Higher DF at the trachea is observed in TB1, TB2, and COPD2 models. DE increases with the particle size, and DE of the terminal bronchi is higher than that of central regions. Combined with AMMs, the CFD simulation using realistic airway models demonstrates disruptions of DP. The methods and findings might help understand the etiology of pulmonary diseases and improve the efficacy of inhaled medicines.
Stainless Steel Microfibers for Strain-Sensing Smart Clay Bricks
Authors: D’Alessandro Antonella , Meoni Andrea , Ubertini Filippo
Published: August 2018

Life cycle monitoring of structural health of civil constructions is crucial to guarantee users’ safety. An optimal structural health monitoring system allows to automatically detect, locate, and quantify any damage in structural elements, thus anticipating major risks of local or global failures. Critical issues affecting traditional monitoring systems are sensors’ placement, hardware durability, and long-term reliability of the measurements. Indeed, sensors’ deployment is crucial for an effective investigation of the static and dynamic characteristics of the structural system, whereby durability and long-term stability of sensing systems are necessary for long-term monitoring. A very attractive solution to some of these challenges is developing sensors made of the same, or similar, material of the structure being monitored, allowing a spatially distributed and long-term reliable monitoring system, by the use of self-sensing construction materials. Within this context, the authors have recently proposed new “smart clay bricks” that are strain-sensing clay bricks aimed at embedding intelligent monitoring capabilities within structural masonry buildings. While previous work focused on smart bricks doped with titanium dioxide and using embedded point electrodes, this work proposes an enhanced version of smart bricks based on the addition of conductive micro stainless steel fibers that possess higher electrical conductivity and a more suitable fiber-like aspect ratio for the intended application, as well as plate copper electrodes deployed on top and bottom surfaces of the bricks. The paper thus presents preparation and experimental characterization of the new smart bricks. The influence of different amounts of fibers is investigated, allowing the identification of their optimal content to maximize the gauge factor of the bricks. Both electrical and electromechanical experimental tests were performed. Overall, the presented results demonstrate that the new smart bricks proposed in this paper possess enhanced strain-sensing capabilities and could be effectively utilized as sensors within structural masonry buildings.
Relationship of Moisture Status and Quality Characteristics of Fresh Wet Noodles Prepared from Different Grade Wheat Flours from Flour Milling Streams
Authors: Li Li , Wang Na , Ma Sen , Yang Songzhu , Chen Xuehua , Ke Yingying , Wang Xiaoxi
Published: August 2018

This study was performed to investigate the quality of fresh wet noodles made from flour milling streams. The basic composition, texture properties, cooking characteristics, and moisture status were measured to evaluate the qualities of noodles. The results indicated that as storage time increased, the springiness of fresh wet noodles gradually decreased, but the hardness increased. Additionally, the cooking loss rate was increased obviously, and the water absorption rate generally decreased. The relaxation times T21 and T22, analyzed by low-field nuclear magnetic resonance, showed a downward trend that proton mobility became poor and bound water changed into intermediate water. Noodles made from reduction flour exhibited better quality. Compared to that with ambient temperature storage, the wet noodles under frozen storage showed better quality. The relaxation time T21, and T22 showed a positive correlation with noodle quality.
Analysing the Impact of Traffic Incidents on the Travel Time Reliability of Freeway High-Occupancy Vehicle Lanes
Authors: Chen Xianzhe , Zou Yajie , Tang Jinjun , Peng Yichuan , Wu Lingtao , Jiang Yuming
Published: August 2018

This study aims to examine the impact of traffic incidents occurring on general purpose lanes (GPLs) on the travel time reliability of high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes on freeways and to evaluate the differences of travel time reliability on GPLs and HOV lanes under the same incident conditions. In this paper, an empirical travel time reliability analysis is conducted using the travel time and incident data collected between 2009 and 2012 on Interstate 5 and Interstate 405 of the Seattle metropolitan area. Three incident types (i.e., shoulder incident, single lane incident, and multiple lane incident) are considered. Two measures, percentile-based indicator and inflow–percentile travel time function, are used. The results suggest that incidents result in lower values of travel time reliability for all the measures. The results also show that multiple lane incident type has the most significant impact on the freeway route travel time reliability, while shoulder incident type has the least impact. Generally, HOV lanes have higher travel time reliability than GPLs under the same incident types. The findings in this study provide useful decision support for transportation agencies to improve travel time reliability on freeways.
Porous Activated Carbons Derived from Pleurotus eryngii for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Yuan Yudan , Yi Ruowei , Sun Yi , Zeng Jianqiao , Li Jiaqi , Hu Jiahao , Zhao Yinchao , Sun Wei , Zhao Chun , Yang Li , Zhao Cezhou
Published: August 2018

Varieties of natural biomass have been utilized to prepare porous carbon materials for supercapacitor applications. In this work, porous activated carbons derived from Pleurotus eryngii were prepared by carbonization and KOH activation. The activated carbons presented a large specific surface area of 3255 m2·g−1 with high porosity. The as-prepared electrode exhibited a maximal specific capacitance of 236 F·g−1 measured in a three-electrode cell system. Furthermore, the assembled symmetric supercapacitor showed a specific capacitance of 195 F·g−1 at 0.2 A·g−1 and a superior specific capacitance retention of about 93% after 15000 cycles. The desirable capacitive behavior suggests that Pleurotus eryngii is an attractive biomass source of carbon materials for the potential supercapacitor applications.