bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PPTS Inhibits the TGF-β1-Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Human Colorectal Cancer SW480 Cells
Authors: Zhang Ling , Naeem Abid , Wei Shaofeng , Li Zexie , Zang Zhenzhong , Wang Meng , Liu Yali , Su Dan
Published: September 2019

The current study investigates the inhibitory effects of Pulsatilla pentacyclic triterpenoid saponins extract (PPTS) on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) triggered by the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in human colorectal cancer SW480 cell line, further illustrates the possible mechanism of PPTS inhibition of growth and invasion from the perspective of EMT, and provides new theoretical support for the treatment of tumor by Chinese medicine. The SW480 cells were treated in groups: blank control, TGF-β1 (10 ng/mL), and varying concentrations of PPTS cotreated with TGF-β1-induced (10 ng/mL) groups. CCK8 was used to detect cell viability; transwell was applied to detect invasion ability, cell migration ability was also determined, ELISA and RT-qPCR were utilized for the determination of CYP3A, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, N-cadherin, and MMP-9 expression. Flow cytometry detection was applied to detect cell cycle and apoptosis. The results obtained have shown that PPTS can significantly inhibit the invasion and migration of tumors in SW480 cells and can also block the S phase in the cell cycle but may produce cytotoxicity in higher doses. The present research work provides substantial evidence that PPTS has a significant inhibitory effect on TGF-β1-induced EMT in SW480 cells and it also promotes apoptosis.
Wound Healing and the Use of Medicinal Plants
Authors: Shedoeva Aleksandra , Leavesley David , Upton Zee , Fan Chen
Published: September 2019

Cutaneous wound healing is the process by which skin repairs itself. It is generally accepted that cutaneous wound healing can be divided into 4 phases: haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodelling. In humans, keratinocytes re-form a functional epidermis (reepithelialization) as rapidly as possible, closing the wound and reestablishing tissue homeostasis. Dermal fibroblasts migrate into the wound bed and proliferate, creating “granulation tissue” rich in extracellular matrix proteins and supporting the growth of new blood vessels. Ultimately, this is remodelled over an extended period, returning the injured tissue to a state similar to that before injury. Dysregulation in any phase of the wound healing cascade delays healing and may result in various skin pathologies, including nonhealing, or chronic ulceration. Indigenous and traditional medicines make extensive use of natural products and derivatives of natural products and provide more than half of all medicines consumed today throughout the world. Recognising the important role traditional medicine continues to play, we have undertaken an extensive survey of literature reporting the use of medical plants and plant-based products for cutaneous wounds. We describe the active ingredients, bioactivities, clinical uses, formulations, methods of preparation, and clinical value of 36 medical plant species. Several species stand out, including Centella asiatica, Curcuma longa, and Paeonia suffruticosa, which are popular wound healing products used by several cultures and ethnic groups. The popularity and evidence of continued use clearly indicates that there are still lessons to be learned from traditional practices. Hidden in the myriad of natural products and derivatives from natural products are undescribed reagents, unexplored combinations, and adjunct compounds that could have a place in the contemporary therapeutic inventory.
Distribution of Available Silicon of Volcanic Ash Soils in Jeju Island
Authors: Park Won-Pyo , Song Kwan-Cheol , Koo Bon-Jun , Hyun Hae-Nam
Published: September 2019

In soils, dissolved silicon (Si) is adsorbed onto soil particles or is leached into groundwater through the soil profile. Andisols may play an important role in contributing to high dissolved Si concentrations in groundwater on Jeju Island, Korea. In this study, we evaluated the available Si content that potentially affects groundwater composition and investigated the relationship between the available Si content and chemical properties of volcanic ash soil on Jeju Island. We used the 1 M sodium acetate buffer (pH 4.0) to extract the available Si. Selected chemical properties were determined for 290 topsoil samples collected from different land sites throughout Jeju Island, and we analyzed the available Si content in the typifying pedons of Jeju Island and mainland Korea. The available Si content in Jeju Island topsoils ranged from 75 to 150 mg·kg−1, and the available Si content of Andisols in both orchards and grasslands was significantly higher than that of non-Andisols. The available Si content was highly correlated with the amounts of oxalate extractable Si, Al, and Fe in Andisols and was negatively related to the Alp/Alo ratio. With increasing elevation, we detected a decrease in the available Si and allophane content in Andisols, whereas Al-humus complexes increased with increasing elevation. The ratio of available Si in the lowest subsoil/topsoil increased to a value of 6.0, indicating that large amounts of available Si are present in the subsoil. The available Si content in the lowest subsoil of Andisols on Jeju Island was 10 times higher than that in the typifying pedons of the Korean mainland. In contrast, there were no differences in the available Si content between the topsoil and the subsoil of the typifying pedon series of Jeju and mainland non-Andisols because of differences in pedogenic processes. Collectively, our findings indicate that weathering of Andisols on Jeju Island potentially affects the Si concentration in groundwater.
Adsorption of Chromium(VI) onto Freshwater Snail Shell-Derived Biosorbent from Aqueous Solutions: Equilibrium, Kinetics, and Thermodynamics
Authors: Vu Xuan Hoa , Nguyen Lan Huong , Van Huu Tap , Nguyen Dinh Vinh , Nguyen Thu Huong , Nguyen Quang Trung , Ha L. T.
Published: September 2019

In this study, freshwater snail shells (FSSs) containing CaCO3 were used as a low-cost biosorbent for removing Cr(VI) from aqueous solutions. The characteristics of FSS and mechanism of Cr(VI) adsorption onto FSS were investigated. The FSS biosorbent was characterized using nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherm, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The adsorption mechanism was determined by conducting various batch adsorption experiments along with fitting experimental data with various adsorption models. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted as a function of solution pH, contact time, biosorbent dose, and initial Cr(VI) concentration. Results indicated that pH = 2, a contact time of 120 min, and an initial Cr(VI) concentration of 30 mg/L at 20°C were the best conditions for adsorption of Cr(VI) onto FSS. The Cr(VI) adsorption onto FSS decreased with an increase in temperature from 20 to 40°C. The obtained maximum adsorption capacity was 8.85 mg/g for 2 g/L of FSS dose with 30 mg/L of initial Cr(VI) at 20°C. The adsorption equilibrium data fit well with the Sips and Langmuir isotherm models at 20°C with a high R2 of 0.981 and 0.975, respectively. Also, a good correlation between the experimental data and the pseudo-second-order model was achieved, with the highest R2 of 0.995 at 20°C. The adsorption mechanisms were electrostatic interaction and ion exchange. Simultaneously, this mechanism was also controlled by film diffusion. The Cr(VI) adsorption process was irreversible, spontaneous (−∆G°), exothermic (∆H° is negative), and less random (∆S° is negative). In conclusion, freshwater snail shells have the potential as a renewable adsorbent to remove toxic metals from wastewater.
Abnormally Elevated Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Level in an Infertile Woman
Authors: Catteau Aurore , Bach-Ngohou Kalyane , Blin Justine , Barrière Paul , Fréour Thomas , Masson Damien
Published: September 2019

We report a case of 33-year-old woman with a 4-year primary infertility. A high isolated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level was conflicting with the clinical situation and with other hormonal markers which were in favor of polycystic ovarian syndrome. We followed a strategy used to identify immune complexes involving FSH. The PEG precipitation test revealed that the high FSH level was almost exclusively due to the presence of autoimmune FSH immunoglobulin complex (macro-FSH). The profile obtained by gel filtration chromatography confirmed the presence of an FSH-immunoglobulin complex. Such immunological dysregulation could be explored in cases of unexplained infertility and recurrent IVF failure.
Antenna Element Index Modulation for Frequency Diverse Array
Authors: Huang Gaojian , Ding Yuan , Fusco Vincent , Ouyang Shan
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we propose a new architecture and provide performance analysis for frequency diverse array (FDA) Radar combined with the index modulation (IM) techniques. Here, the IM concept is applied upon frequency offsets in an FDA. Information is transmitted by a dynamically selected subset of antenna element indices applying predefined carrier frequency offsets, which generate different radiation patterns. It is shown that this enables the capability for simultaneous wireless communication and FDA Radar that has the range-angle coupling issue resolved.
A Further Analysis on Ti6Al4V Lattice Structures Manufactured by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Maietta Saverio , Gloria Antonio , Improta Giovanni , Richetta Maria , De Santis Roberto , Martorelli Massimo
Published: September 2019

Mechanical and architectural features play an important role in designing biomedical devices. The use of materials (i.e., Ti6Al4V) with Young’s modulus higher than those of natural tissues generally cause stress shielding effects, bone atrophy, and implant loosening. However, porous devices may be designed to reduce the implant stiffness and, consequently, to improve its stability by promoting tissue ingrowth. If porosity increases, mass transport properties, which are crucial for cell behavior and tissue ingrowth, increase, whereas mechanical properties decrease. As reported in the literature, it is always possible to tailor mass transport and mechanical properties of additively manufactured structures by varying the architectural features, as well as pore shape and size. Even though many studies have already been made on different porous structures with controlled morphology, the aim of current study was to provide only a further analysis on Ti6Al4V lattice structures manufactured by selective laser melting. Experimental and theoretical analyses also demonstrated the possibility to vary the architectural features, pore size, and geometry, without dramatically altering the mechanical performance of the structure.
Combined Left Central Retinal Artery Occlusion and Bilateral Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuritis: A Rare Presentation of Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Joseph Anne D. D. , Pradeepan Jebananthy Anandaselvam , Kumanan Thirunavukarasu , Malaravan Muthusamy
Published: September 2019

Giant cell arteritis, a large vessel vasculitis is characterized by headache, visual impairment, constitutional symptoms, and increased inflammatory markers. Visual involvement in giant cell arteritis ranges from amaurosis fugax to permanent visual loss, and extensive bilateral visual impairment is a rare presentation. We hereby report a case of combined left central retinal artery occlusion and bilateral anterior ischemic optic neuritis in a patient who poorly responded to standard corticosteroid therapy.
Mechanical Recovery of Cracked Fiber-Reinforced Mortar Incorporating Crystalline Admixture, Expansive Agent, and Geomaterial
Authors: Buller Abdul Salam , Abro Fahad ul Rehman , Lee Kwang-Myong , Jang Seung Yup
Published: September 2019

This research is sought to characterize the stimulated autogenous healing of fiber-reinforced mortars that incorporate healing agents such as crystalline admixtures, expansive agents, and geomaterials. The effects of the healing materials on mechanical performance and water permeability were evaluated experimentally. Furthermore, microscopic and microstructural observations were conducted to investigate the characteristics and physical appearance of healing products within healed cracks. Test results are presented herein regarding index of strength recovery (ISR), index of damage recovery (IDR) and index of dissipation energy gain (IDEG) in relation to crack healing, and reduction of water flow rate. The self-healing capability of the mortars was greater in terms of resisting water flow rather than recovering mechanical performance likely because water flow depends on surface crack sealing, whereas mechanical performance depends on bonding capacity as well as full-depth healing of cracks; thus, mechanical performance may further be improved after longer healing duration.
Assessment of the Local Exposure Level during Adult Chest X-Rays at the Ngaoundere Regional Hospital, Cameroon
Authors: Gnowe Guiswe , Ekobena Fouda Henri Paul , Amvene Jéremie Mbo , Pascal Takmou , Babinne Graobe Bonaventure
Published: September 2019

Background. The purpose of this study was to estimate the doses delivered to adult patients during chest examination for comparison with those elsewhere and to establish a local diagnostic reference level for the chest. The doses delivered in the standard X-ray examinations are not sufficiently optimized and controlled. The working protocols for the same exam given differ for similar morphotypes within the same hospital structure. Materials and Methods. The entrance skin dose (mGy) of the chest was evaluated on 105 adult patients with a mass of 70 ± 10 kg in accordance with the 75th percentile of the irradiation parameters. The analysis and processing of the data was carried out by Excel 2010. The entrance skin dose of the chest obtained in mGy was 0.18 ± 0.21 for the PA incidence. Conclusion. The present study allowed us to observe large variations at the entrance skin doses of the chest. These variations have made it possible to understand that the entrance skin doses to the chest are optimized and do not exceed the proportions of those estimated by others and standards internationally. This aspect demonstrates that the diagnostic reference levels as enumerated are dependent on the doses delivered and include not only the notions of quality of the radiographic image and the quality assurance of the radiological equipments but also the level of the manipulators trained.
Strain Effects on the Band Gap and Diameter of CdSe Core and CdSe/ZnS Core/Shell Quantum Dots at Any Temperature
Authors: Karim Md. Rezaul , Balaban Mesut , Ünlü Hilmi
Published: September 2019

We present the results of an experimental study about strain effects on the core band gap and diameter of spherical bare CdSe core and CdSe/ZnS core/shell quantum dots (QDs) synthesized by using a colloidal technique at varying temperatures. Structural characterizations were made by using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) techniques. Optical characterizations were made by using UV-Vis absorption and fluorescence emission spectroscopies. The XRD analysis suggests that the synthesized bare CdSe core and CdSe/ZnS core/shell QDs have zinc blende crystal structure. HRTEM results indicate that the CdSe core and CdSe/ZnS QDs have average particle sizes about 3.50 nm and 4.84 nm, respectively. Furthermore, compressive strain causes an increase (decrease) in the core band gap (diameter) of spherical CdSe/ZnS core/shell QDs at any temperature. An elastic strain-modified effective mass approximation (EMA) predicts that there is a parabolic decrease (increase) in the core band gap (diameter) of QDs with temperature. The diameter of spherical bare CdSe core and CdSe/ZnS core/shell QDs calculated by using the strain-modified EMA, with core band gap extracted from absorption spectra, are in excellent agreement with the HRTEM data.
Disseminated Cryptococcosis in a Non-HIV Patient in Singapore
Authors: See Jonathan , Fong Kok Choon Raymond , Shafi Humaira
Published: September 2019

We present a case of disseminated cryptococcosis (DC) in a 71-year-old gentleman with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) on long-term corticosteroids. He initially presented with right arm cellulitis in a tertiary hospital in Singapore and was subsequently diagnosed with DC involving skin, meninges, blood, and possibly pulmonary involvement. He eventually succumbed to the disease despite prolonged antifungal therapy. Through this case, we wish to highlight an atypical clinical presentation of an uncommon infection and hope to share the importance of considering DC in the differential diagnosis of nonresolving cellulitis among immunocompromised individuals. Mortality and morbidity rates for this condition remain high despite appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improved outcomes. More research is needed to improve the therapeutic modalities for treatment of DC and to improve the clinical outcomes for this life-threatening condition.
Challenges in Interpreting Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Results in the Diagnosis of Thyroid Dysfunction
Authors: Razvi Salman , Bhana Sindeep , Mrabeti Sanaa
Published: September 2019

The pituitary hormone, thyrotropin (TSH), is regarded as the primary biomarker for evaluating thyroid function and is useful in guiding treatment with levothyroxine for patients with hypothyroidism. The amplified response of TSH to slight changes in thyroid hormone levels provides a large and easily measured signal in the routine care setting. Laboratories provide reference ranges with upper and lower cutoffs for TSH to define normal thyroid function. The upper limit of the range, used to diagnose subclinical (mild) hypothyroidism, is itself a matter for debate, with authoritative guidelines recommending treatment to within the lower half of the range. Concomitant diseases, medications, supplements, age, gender, ethnicity, iodine status, time of day, time of year, autoantibodies, heterophilic antibodies, smoking, and other factors influence the level of TSH, or the performance of current TSH assays. The long-term prognostic implications of small deviations of TSH from the reference range are unclear. Correction of TSH to within the reference range does not always bring thyroid and other biomarkers into range and will not always resolve the patient’s symptoms. Overt hypothyroidism requires intervention with levothyroxine. It remains important that physicians managing a patient with symptoms suggestive of thyroid disease consider all of the patient’s relevant disease, lifestyle, and other factors before intervening on the basis of a marginally raised TSH level alone. Finally, these limitations of TSH testing mitigate against screening the population for the undoubtedly substantial prevalence of undiagnosed thyroid disease, until appropriately designed randomised trials have quantified the benefits and harms from this approach.
Non Typhoidal Salmonella Pyonephrosis in an Asymptomatic Immunocompetent Patient
Authors: Mokadem Seif , Nouioui Mohamed Ali , Kalai Salma , Taktak Tarek , Mediouni Houssem , Khiari Ramzi , Ghozzi Samir
Published: September 2019

A 50-year-old man with no past medical history presented with 5 months history of right flank discomfort. Physical examination was unremarkable. CT-scan showed a large right renal pelvic calculi and upper pole hydronephrosis. He underwent open surgical procedure and we peroperatively discovered upper pole pyonephrosis. Bacteriological samples of pus grew group D Salmonella. We prescribed third generation cephalosporin for 14 days. The patient made a steady recovery. Non typhoidal salmonella (NTS) urinary tract infection (UTI) is extremely rare and usually associated with immunosuppressive chronic disease or genito urinary tract abnormalities. Pyonephrosis due to NTS have been reported twice. We report the first case of asymptomatic NTS pyonephrosis.
A Case of Fusobacterium necrophorum without Lemierre’s Syndrome Mimicking Acute Leptospirosis
Authors: Yasuhara Ryo , Shibazaki Shunichi , Yamanouchi Takayoshi
Published: September 2019

Jaundice, conjunctival hyperemia, and acute kidney injury (AKI) are the characteristics of leptospirosis. However, it is not well known that Fusobacterium necrophorum infection can have a clinical picture similar to that of leptospirosis. A 38-year-old man was admitted with jaundice, conjunctival hyperemia, and AKI for 7 days. Chest CT scan showed multiple pulmonary nodules, atypical for leptospirosis. We started treatment with IV piperacillin-tazobactam and minocycline. He became anuric and was urgently started on hemodialysis on the second hospital day. Later on, blood cultures grew Fusobacterium necrophorum and other anaerobic bacteria. Antibody and PCR assays for Leptospira were negative. We narrowed the antibiotics to IV ceftriaxone and metronidazole. He responded well to the treatment and was discharged on the 18th hospital day. F. necrophorum infection is known to cause mixed infection with other anaerobic bacteria. The resistance of many anaerobic bacteria continues to progress, and F. necrophorum itself sometimes produces β-lactamase. This case highlights the potential risks of using penicillin before diagnosis of leptospirosis.
Fever-Associated Supraventricular Tachycardia after 4CMenB Vaccination in an Infant
Authors: Gönüllü Erdem , Topçu Burcu , Öner Naci , Soysal Ahmet , Karaböcüoğlu Metin
Published: September 2019

Meningococcal serogroup B vaccine 4CMenB (Bexsero) is a new four-component protein vaccine developed to prevent Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B infections. Case. We report a girl with fever and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) 6–8 hours after the second dose of 4CMenB. SVT was unresponsive to the first dose of adenosine but terminated after the fourth dose of adenosine. During three months of follow-up, she was free of further SVT attacks. Conclusion. This is the first report of ECG-proven SVT after 4CMenB vaccination. Even if fever is coexistent, SVT should be considered after persistent tachycardia and 4CMenB vaccination.
Transmission Scheduling of Periodic Real-Time Traffic in IEEE 802.15.4e TSCH-Based Industrial Mesh Networks
Authors: Shi Ke , Zhang Lin , Qi Zhiying , Tong Kang , Chen Hongsheng
Published: September 2019

Time-slotted channel hopping (TSCH) is a part of an emerging IEEE 802.15.4e standard to enable deterministic low-power mesh networking, which offers high reliability and low latency for wireless industrial applications. Nonetheless, the standard only provides a framework, but it does not mandate a specific scheduling mechanism for time and frequency slot allocation. This paper focuses on a centralized scheme to schedule multiple concurrent periodic real-time flows in TSCH networks with mesh topology. In our scheme, each flow is assigned a dynamic priority based on its deadline and the hops remaining to reach the destination. A maximum matching algorithm is utilized to find conflict-free links, which provides more chances to transfer high-priority flows at each time slot. Frequency allocation is implemented by graph coloring to make finally selected links interference free. Simulation results show that our algorithm clearly outperforms the existing algorithms on the deadline satisfaction ratio with a similar radio duty cycle.
Prediction Model Design for Vibration Severity of Rotating Machine Based on Sequence‐to‐Sequence Neural Network
Authors: Wang Zhiqiang , Qian Hong , Zhang Dongliang , Wei Yingchen
Published: September 2019

Steam turbine rotor system is a main part of the power production process. Accurate prediction of the turbine rotor operation state leads to timely detection of the hidden danger and accordingly ensures the efficient power production. The vibration severity reflects the vibration intensity and the working condition as well. Since the accuracy of the normal prediction method is not enough, a new model is proposed in this paper that combines the sequence prediction model with the gated recurrent unit (GRU). According to the obtained results, the accuracy is improved through the proposed model. To verify the effectiveness of the model, simulations are performed on the steam turbine rotor unbalance fault data. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed approach could be utilized for vibration severity prediction as well as state warning of the steam turbine.
Numerical Investigation on Pressure Pulsation Characteristics and Radial Force of a Deep‐Sea Electric Lifting Pump at Off‐Design Conditions
Authors: Kang Yajuan , Liu Shaojun , Zou Weisheng , Hu Xiaozhou
Published: September 2019

To predict the vibrational conditions, the generation mechanism, and action law of pressure pulsation and radial force, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) study of a deep‐sea electric lifting pump operating under different off‐design conditions was performed. The time‐domain and frequency‐domain response of the pressure pulsation at different monitoring points and the radial force of impeller distribution were obtained. Differences in pressure pulsation characteristics between the first stage and second stage were observed. The variation law and influential factors of the radial force under different flow rates were discussed. The present investigation shows that the flow field caused by rotor‐stator interaction is not uniform, resulting in uneven pressure distribution and pressure pulsation, the combined effects of which produce fluctuating radial forces. Parameters obtained via simulations including head, efficiency, and power, which can reflect the hydraulic performance of the pump, agree well with experimental results; thus, the accuracy of the simulation model and the calculation method was verified. This study provides a basis for improving the structure and reliability of an electric lifting pump.
A Real-Time Capable Dynamic Partial Reconfiguration System for an Application-Specific Soft-Core Processor
Authors: Kirchhoff Michael , Kerling Philipp , Streitferdt Detlef , Fengler Wolfgang
Published: September 2019

Modern FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays) are becoming increasingly important when it comes to embedded system development. Within these FPGAs, soft-core processors are often used to solve a wide range of different tasks. Soft-core processors are a cost-effective and time-efficient way to realize embedded systems. When using the full potential of FPGAs, it is possible to dynamically reconfigure parts of them during run time without the need to stop the device. This feature is called dynamic partial reconfiguration (DPR). If the DPR approach is to be applied in a real-time application-specific soft-core processor, an architecture must be created that ensures strict compliance with the real-time constraint at all times. In this paper, a novel method that addresses this problem is introduced, and its realization is described. In the first step, an application-specializable soft-core processor is presented that is capable of solving problems while adhering to hard real-time deadlines. This is achieved by the full design time analyzability of the soft-core processor. Its special architecture and other necessary features are discussed. Furthermore, a method for the optimized generation of partial bitstreams for the DPR as well as its practical implementation in a tool is presented. This tool is able to minimize given bitstreams with the help of a differential frame bitmap. Experiments that realize the DPR within the soft-core framework are presented, with respect to the need for hard real-time capability. Those experiments show a significant resource reduction of about 40% compared to a functionally equivalent non-DPR design.
Aplasia in Chronic Phase CML Post-TKI Therapy: A Management Dilemma
Authors: Ramdial Jeremy L. , Aguirre Luis E. , Ali Robert A. , Swords Ronan , Goodman Mark
Published: September 2019

Transient cytopenias and bone marrow hypoplasia commonly occur during treatment of CML with TKIs (tyrosine kinase inhibitors). This is usually related to the eradication of CML clones that initially compose the majority of hematopoietic cells in the bone marrow at the time of diagnosis. With continuation of effective therapy, normal blood counts return as normal hematopoiesis is restored and CML clones are reduced. Though rare and more unusual than myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), isolated instances of persistent marrow aplasia have been documented with chronic use of TKIs. We describe two such instances of chronic phase CML where no significant reduction of CML clones was achieved following treatment with TKIs, but bone marrow aplasia occurred resulting in persistent dysfunctional hematopoiesis. Due to prolonged aplasia/hypoplasia, such patients are no longer amenable to TKI treatment. CML progression to accelerated or blast phase in that setting would likely be fatal.
Wave‐Based Method for Free Vibration Analysis of Orthotropic Cylindrical Shells with Arbitrary Boundary Conditions
Authors: Pang Fuzhen , Huo Ruidong , Li Haichao , Gao Cong , Miao Xuhong , Ren Yi
Published: September 2019

The wave‐based method (WBM) is a feasible method which investigates the free vibration characteristics of orthotropic cylindrical shells under general boundary conditions. Based on Reissner–Naghid’s shell theory, the governing motion equation is established, and the displacement variables are transformed into wave functions formed to satisfy the governing equations. On the basis of the kinematic relationship between the force resultant and displacement vector, the overall matrix of the shell is established. Comparison studies of this paper with the solutions in the literatures were carried out to validate the accuracy of the present method. Furthermore, by analyzing some numerical examples, the free vibration characteristics of orthogonal anisotropic cylindrical shells under classical boundary conditions, elastic boundary conditions, and their combinations are studied. Also, the effects of the material parameter and geometric constant on the natural frequencies for the orthotropic circular cylindrical shell under general boundary conditions are discussed. The conclusions obtained can be used as data reference for future calculation methods.
Applicability of Pseudoprobabilistic Method of Liquefaction Hazard Assessment for Nuclear Power Plants at Diffuse Seismicity Sites
Authors: Katona Tamás János , Győri Erzsébet , Tóth László
Published: September 2019

For the new nuclear power plants, the hazard of liquefaction due to earthquakes should be excluded by appropriate site selection or eliminated by engineering measures. An important question is how to define a quantitative criterion for negligibility of the liquefaction hazard. In the case of operating plants, liquefaction can be revealed as a beyond-design-basis event. It is important to learn whether the liquefaction hazard has a safety relevance and whether there is a sufficient margin to the onset of liquefaction. The use of pseudoprobabilistic method would be practicable for the definition of probability of liquefaction, but it could result in overconservative results. In this paper, the applicability of the pseudoprobabilistic procedure is demonstrated for the sites in diffuse seismicity environment and for low hazard levels that are typical for nuclear safety considerations. Use of the procedure is demonstrated in a case study with realistic site-plant parameters.
Protective Effects of Aqueous Extract of Mentha suaveolens against Oxidative Stress-Induced Damages in Human Keratinocyte HaCaT Cells
Authors: Lee HansongI , Yeom Miji , Shin Seoungwoo , Jeon Kyungeun , Park Deokhoon , Jung Eunsun
Published: September 2019

Mentha suaveolens is an aromatic herb that has a wide range of biological activities, including antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties. Although there are a few reports on the antioxidant property of M. suaveolens, its cytoprotective activity against oxidative stress has not been reported yet. The objective of this study was to determine the protective activity of M. suaveolens aqueous extract (MSAE) against hydrogen peroxide- (H2O2-) induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in human keratinocyte HaCaT cells. MSAE pretreatment decreased H2O2-induced cytotoxicity and suppressed H2O2-induced intracellular ROS generation. Furthermore, MSAE suppressed expression levels of H2O2-induced apoptotic genes such as cleaved caspase-3, caspase-9, and cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). Pretreatment with MSAE induced expression of phase II enzyme such as HO-1 through translocation of NF-E2-related factor (Nrf2) upon H2O2 exposure. These results revealed that the cytoprotective effect of MSAE against oxidative stress-induced cell death was associated with activation of Nrf2-mediated phase II enzyme expression.
Key‐Frame Extraction Based on HSV Histogram and Adaptive Clustering
Authors: Zhao Hong , Wang Wei-Jie , Wang Tao , Chang Zhao-Bin , Zeng Xiang-Yan
Published: September 2019

Along with the fast development of digital information technology and the application of Internet, video data begins to grow explosively. Some applications with high real‐time requirements, such as object detection, require strong online video storage and analysis capabilities. Key‐frame extraction is an important technique in video analysis, which provides an organizational framework for dealing with video content and reduces the amount of data required in video indexing. To address the problem, this study proposes a key‐frame extraction method based on HSV (hue, saturation, value) histogram and adaptive clustering. The HSV histogram is used as color features for each frame, which reduces the amount of data. Furthermore, by using the transformed one‐dimensional eigenvector, the fixed number of features can be extracted for images with different sizes. Then, a cluster validation technique, the silhouette coefficient, is employed to get the appropriate number of clusters without setting any clustering parameters. Finally, several algorithms are compared in the experiments. The density peak clustering algorithm (DPCA) model is shown to be more effective than the other four models in precision and F‐measure.
Development and Performance Test including Mechanical and Thermal of New Tenon Composite Block Masonry Walls
Authors: Su Hui , Wu Dongyue , Shen Mengying , Chen Wei , Wang Shilin
Published: September 2019

To improve the thermal performance of external masonry walls, a new tenon composite block is proposed as the external maintenance component which contains the internal hollow concrete block part, the external block part, and the extruded polystyrene layer fixed by tenons. The production process and concrete material mixing ratio were optimized for the new tenon composite block to promote its application. The mechanical strength and thermal properties of the optimized tenon composite blocks were tested with experiments and numerical simulation in this study. The testing and simulation results indicated that after utilizing the two optimized concrete mixing ratios, the tenon composite block strength matched the strength requirements according to the related design code. The thermal performance of the tenon composite block wall was also good compared with that of a common block wall.
Chlorogenic Acid Attenuates Kidney Ischemic/Reperfusion Injury via Reducing Inflammation, Tubular Injury, and Myofibroblast Formation
Authors: Arfian Nur , Wahyudi Danny A. P. , Zulfatina Ingesti B. , Citta Arsitya N. , Anggorowati Nungki , Multazam Ali , Romi Muhammad M. , Sari Dwi C. R.
Published: September 2019

Kidney ischemic/reperfusion (I/R) injury is the main cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) involving renal function deterioration, renal architecture damage, and inflammation. This condition may lead to kidney fibrosis with epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and myofibroblast formation. Inhibition of chronic effects of kidney I/R injury may provide effective strategies for treating AKI and chronic kidney diseases (CKDs). Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is recognized as a powerful antioxidant, with anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic properties in many conditions. However, the effect of CGA on kidney I/R injury has not been elucidated yet. Kidney I/R injury was performed on male Swiss background mice (I/R group, n = 5, 3-4 months, 30–40 g) which underwent bilateral renal pedicles clamping for 30 minutes and then were euthanized on day three after operation. Three groups of I/R were treated with 3 different doses of CGA intraperitoneally for 2 days: 3.5 (I/R + CGA1 group), 7 (I/R + CGA2 group), and 14 (I/R + CGA3 group) mg/kg of body weight. Tubular injury was quantified based on Periodic Acid-Schiff staining, while reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) was performed to quantify mRNA expression of TGF-β1, vimentin, SOD-1, TLR-4, TNF-α, NF-κB and MCP-1. Immunohistochemical staining was done to quantify proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), myofibroblast (α-SMA), SOD-1 and macrophage (CD68) number. Kidney I/R demonstrated tubular injury and increased inflammatory mediator expression, macrophage number, and myofibroblast expansion. Meanwhile, histological analysis showed lower tubular injury with higher epithelial cell proliferation in CGA-treated groups compared to the I/R group. RT-PCR also revealed significantly lower TGF-β1 and vimentin mRNA expressions with higher SOD-1 mRNA expression. CGA-treated groups also demonstrated a significantly lower macrophage and myofibroblast number compared to the I/R group. These findings associated with lower mRNA expression of TLR-4, TNF-α, NF-κB, and MCP-1 as inflammatory mediators in CGA groups. I/R + CGA3 represented the highest amelioration effect among other CGA-treated groups. CGA treatment attenuates kidney I/R injury through reducing inflammation, decreasing myofibroblast expansion, and inducing epithelial cells proliferation.
Rate of Progression in Activity and Participation Outcomes in Exercisers with Parkinson’s Disease: A Five-Year Prospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Miller Stephanie A. , Mayol Mindy , Moore Elizabeth S. , Heron Audra , Nicholos Victoria , Ragano Brian
Published: September 2019

Background. Rates of progression of motor symptoms and physical performance show declines between 2% and 7% annually in community samples with Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the effects of ongoing exercise behaviors on progression rates have not been considered. Objective. The primary purpose of this prospective, longitudinal study was to examine the annual rates of progression in activity and participation measures over five years in community-based exercisers with PD. Methods. A cohort of 55 regular exercisers with idiopathic PD was assessed at baseline and 1, 2, and 5 years. Regular exercise was defined as scores of 4-5 on the Stages for Readiness to Exercise Scale and a self-reported average of at least 60 minutes of exercise/week within six months of each testing session. Unadjusted and adjusted annual progression rates for activity and participation measures were calculated with a standardized equation of change from baseline. A linear mixed model with covariates of age at PD diagnosis and PD subtype was used to determine adjusted change scores. Results. Annual progression rates for unadjusted and adjusted variables were similar, and none exceeded 1.7% across time points for this group of exercisers with PD. Older age at PD diagnosis significantly contributed to faster progression of walking and balance functions. A nonlinear trajectory of the PD progression was demonstrated across most activity and participation outcomes. Conclusions. Annual progression rates demonstrated by this sample of exercisers were lower than those previously reported for motor decline in general samples with PD. Assessing activity and participation outcomes longitudinally at interim time points was important for understanding the trajectory of change over time. The lower rates of progression in this study warrant further investigation into the long-term effects of exercise in PD.
Combination of Principal Component Analysis and Time‐Frequency Representation for P‐Wave Arrival Detection
Authors: Wodecki Jacek , Hebda-Sobkowicz Justyna , Mirek Adam , Zimroz Radosław , Wyłomańska Agnieszka
Published: September 2019

Seismic events are phenomena which commonly occur in the mining industry. Due to their dangerous character, such information as the energy of the potential event, the location of hazardous regions with higher seismic activity is considered valuable. However, the acquisition of this information is almost impossible without the ability to detect the onset time of the seismic event. The main objectives of algorithms in finding P‐wave are high accuracy, reasonable time of operation, and automatic detection of wave arrival. In this paper, an innovative method which incorporates principal component analysis (PCA) with time‐frequency representation of the signal is proposed. Due to the significant difference between the spectra of recorded seismic wave and pure noise which precedes the event, time‐frequency representation allows for better accuracy of signal change detection. However, with an additional domain, the complexity rises. Thus, the incorporation of PCA (which is known for high efficiency in lowering data dimensions while maintaining original information) seems to be recommended. In order to show the feasibility of the method, it will be tested on real data originating from monitoring system used in underground mine.
Analysis of Tangential Nonlinear Vibration on Machine Hydrostatic Slide
Authors: Zhang Zhongkui , Gao Feng , Li Yan , Zhang Han
Published: September 2019

In this paper, the nonlinear dynamic responses of the hydrostatic slide were investigated and the effects of damping and external force to control the vibration system were discussed. The dynamic model of the system was established, and the tangential vibration equation taking into account nonlinear factors was derived. The heteroclinic orbit parameter equations of the vibration system were solved, and the Melnikov function of vibration system is derived. And the chaos condition and judging criterion of the vibration system were obtained by Melnikov’s method. The vibration equation of the hydrostatic slide was solved using the numerical method. The bifurcation diagram, phase diagram, wave diagram of displacement, and Poincaré map were obtained, and the nonlinear dynamic responses were analyzed. Finally validation experiments were conducted, and the results agree well with the results obtained by the Melnikov method and numerical method.
Appraisal of Periodontal Condition amongst Leather Manufacturing Plant Workers in Central India: A Prevalence Survey
Authors: Dayma Ashwini , Amith P. , Singh Venkat Raman , Kashyap Nilotpol
Published: September 2019

Objective. To assess the periodontal status among the leather factory workers in Dewas and to provide a baseline data for the oral health care and promotion programs. Materials and Methods. A total of 850 study population was considered for examination, and the age ranged from 20 to 60 years. All those factory workers with low socioeconomic status and poor background were considered. The data were collected by means modified World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Health Assessment 1997 Performa and clinical examination with the use of the Community Periodontal Index (CPI). Statistical analyses were used: chi-squared test, Mann–Whitney U test, and Kruskal–Wallis test. Results. The sociodemographic characteristics were found to be significantly associated with the periodontal status in the study population (p≤0.05). Mean number of loss of attachment (LOA) 0 sextants was 3.55 ± 2.35, LOA 1 was 0.935 ± 1.3, LOA 2 was 0.414 ± 0.8, LOA 3 was 0.529 ± 0.94, and LOA 4 was 1.24 ± 0.04; all the parameters showed statistically significant difference (p=0.001) except LOA 1 and LOA 2. Conclusion. The periodontal health status of the factory workers is poor. Factors associated with high prevalence of periodontal disease could be the following: a high rate of tobacco consumption and not cleaning their teeth at all along with other associated factors like stress, poor oral hygiene, etc.
Hybrid Feature Extraction of Pipeline Microstates Based on Φ-OTDR Sensing System
Authors: Hu Yanzhu , Meng Zhen , Ai Xinbo , Li Han , Hu Yu , Zhao Huiyang
Published: September 2019

This paper proposes a general integration method which can effectively describe the characteristics of pipeline leakage and help distinguish multiple pipeline microstates. Since the rapid development of Φ-OTDR in recent years, this technology has been applied to more and more fields, such as fiber optic safety monitoring, seismic monitoring, and structural health monitoring. Among them, Φ-OTDR has the characteristic of continuous full-scale monitoring in pipeline monitoring, but there are few researches on pipeline state characteristics at present. In this paper, based on the analysis of the pipeline state with Φ-OTDR technology, a method of extracting multiple microstates of pipelines is proposed. This method combined with the peak-to-average power ratio, short-term interval zero crossing, and fractal characteristics in the frequency domain can effectively characterize the microstate of pipes and provide support for identification of more microstates of pipelines. These features reflect the common characteristics of leaks in gas pipelines and liquid pipelines. Meanwhile, their combination features can represent the small differences in pipeline states. The experimental results show that the method can effectively characterize the microstate information of the pipeline, and the recognition rate of the hybrid feature under two kinds of pipeline leakage and multipressure conditions reaches 91% and 83%.
Dynamics Analysis of Spatial Parallel Mechanism with Irregular Spherical Joint Clearance
Authors: Chen Xiulong , Li Yuewen
Published: September 2019

Clearances caused by machining accuracy and assembly requirements are regular, but they will be irregular due to the wear of the kinematic pairs. At present, there are few studies on wear of space kinematic pairs. In order to grasp the effect of irregular spherical joint clearance after wear on the dynamic response, a method for solving irregular clearance problems based on the Newton–Euler method is proposed, and the dynamic response of 4‐UPS‐UPU spatial parallel mechanism with irregular spherical joint clearance is investigated. The kinematic model and contact force model of the clearance of the spherical joint are derived. The dynamic model of the mechanism with spherical joint clearance is established by the Newton–Euler method. Based on the Archard model, the three‐dimensional dynamic wear model for spherical joint with clearances is developed. The wear depth and wear position of the spherical joint are obtained by the numerical solution. The method of reconstructing the geometric morphology after wear is proposed based on the finite element thought. The solution of the irregular clearance problem is put forward, and the dynamic response of the mechanism after wear is also analyzed. The results show that the dynamic response curves of the mechanism fluctuate around the ideal curves whether before wear or after wear. Compared with the regular clearance before wear, the results of the irregular clearance after wear have a greater impact on acceleration and contact force, and the vibration of the acceleration and contact force curve become more intense than before. Moreover, the displacement, velocity, and acceleration curves of the irregular clearance show some hysteresis than that before wear. Therefore, it can be inferred that the irregular clearance has more adverse effects on the mechanism and aggravates the wear between the elements of the kinematic joint; in addition, the stability and the reliability of the mechanism can be reduced.