bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Laser Microtexturing on the Wetting Behavior of Ti6Al4V Alloy
Authors: Vazquez-Martinez Juan , Salguero Gomez Jorge , Mayuet Ares Pedro , Fernandez-Vidal Severo , Batista Ponce Moises
Published: April 2018

Surface modification procedures by laser techniques allow the generation of specific topographies and microstructures that enable the adaptation of the external layers of materials for specific applications. In laser texturing processes, it is possible to maintain control over the microgeometry and dimensions of the surface pattern through varying the processing parameters. One of the main areas of interest in the field of surface modification treatments is the ability to generate topographies that are associated with specific surface finishes, in terms of roughness, that can improve the manufactured part’s functional capabilities. In this aspect, several types of phenomena have been detected, such as the friction and sliding wear behavior or wetting capacity, which maintain a high dependence on surface roughness. In this research, surface texturing treatments have been developed by laser techniques through using the scanning speed of the beam (Vs) as a control parameter in order to generate samples that have topographies with different natures. Through assessments of surface finish using specialized techniques, the dimensional and geometrical features of the texturized tracks have been characterized, analyzing their influence on the wetting behavior of the irradiated layer. In this way, more defined texturing grooves has been developed by increasing the Vs, which also improves the hydrophobic characteristics of the treated surface. However, due to the lack of uniformity in the solidification process of the irradiated area, some deviations from the expected trends and singular points can be observed. Using the contact angle method to evaluate the wetting behavior of the applied treatments found increases in the contact angle values for high texturing speeds, finding a maximum value of 65.59° for Vs = 200 mm/s.
Target Voltage Hysteresis Behavior and Control Point in the Preparation of Aluminum Oxide Thin Films by Medium Frequency Reactive Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Wang Qingfu , Fang Liping , Liu Qinghe , Chen Lin , Wang Qinguo , Meng Xiandong , Xiao Hong
Published: April 2018

Aluminum oxide thin films were prepared by medium frequency reactive magnetron sputtering. The target voltage hysteresis behavior under different argon partial pressure and target power conditions were studied. The results indicate that the target voltage hysteresis loop of aluminum oxide thin film preparation has typical behavior of that for reactive sputtering deposition of compound films. The target voltage feedback control approach was applied to circumvent the hysteresis problem. The microstructure and chemical composition of the aluminum oxide thin films prepared at different target voltage control points were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Auger electron spectroscopy. The results indicated that the prepared aluminum oxide thin films, which are compact and mostly amorphous, can be obtained with target voltage control point in the range of 25~35%.
Quasi-Equilibrium, Multifoil Platelets of Copper- and Titanium-Substituted Bismuth Vanadate, Bi2V0.9(Cu0.1−xTix)O5.5−δ, by Molten Salt Synthesis
Authors: Ring Kevin , Fuierer Paul
Published: April 2018

10% copper-substituted (BiCUVOX/Bi2V0.9Cu0.1O5.5−δ) and 5% copper/titanium double-substituted bismuth vanadate (BiCUTIVOX/Bi2V0.9(Cu0.05Ti0.05)O5.5−δ) platelets were formed by molten salt synthesis (MSS) using a eutectic KCl/NaCl salt mixture. The product was phase-pure within the limits of X-ray diffraction. The size and form of the platelets could be controlled by changing the heating temperature and time. The crystallite growth rate at a synthesis temperature of 650 °C and the activation energy for grain growth were determined for BICUTIVOX, which experienced inhibited growth compared to BICUVOX. Quasi-equilibrium, multifoil shapes consisting of lobes around the perimeter of the platelets were observed and explained in the context of relative two-dimensional nucleation and edge growth rates.
Optoelectronics Based Dynamic Advancement of Graphene: Characteristics and Applications
Authors: Mondal Himadri , Hossain Md. , Rahaman Md. , Amin Sheikh , Hossain Md. , Hasan Mahasin Md. , Mondal Pankoj
Published: April 2018

Graphene has impressive features that make it an exceptional material for sophisticated applications in next generation electronics and opto-electronics devices. This peremptory material has attracted researchers’ attention in various fields of recent advancement since its discovery in 2004. Its applied fields are increasing day by day. This two-dimensional material (2D) is using mellifluously for the development in different types of devices in the field of optics, photonics, light emitting diode (LED), medical diagnosis, sensing, and so on. In this review, the relevant optical properties and the applications areas with available results in various fields are discussed. Again, the optical conductivity of strained graphene is reviewed in a wavelength related regime that depends on strain modulus and position with field arrangements. Graphene shows a saturation and reverse saturation process due to the increase of light intensity. In addition, strong absorption is observed from the visible to mid-infrared (MIR) wavelength range. Moreover, the application areas of graphene including optics, photonics, plasmonics, mode-locked laser, optical modulator, etc., and the comparison of various results obtained from different sources are presented.
Crystal Structure of the Catalytic Domain of MCR-1 (cMCR-1) in Complex with d-Xylose
Authors: Liu Zhao-Xin , Han Zhenggang , Yu Xiao-Li , Wen Guoyuan , Zeng Chi
Published: April 2018

The polymyxin colistin is known as a “last resort” antibacterial drug toward pandrug-resistant enterobacteria. The recently discovered plasmid-encoded mcr-1 gene spreads rapidly across pathogenic strains and confers resistance to colistin, which has emerged as a global threat. The mcr-1 gene encodes a phosphoethanolamine transferase (MCR-1) that catalyzes the transference of phosphoethanolamine to lipid A moiety of lipopolysaccharide, resulting in resistance to colistin. Development of effective MCR-1 inhibitors is crucial for combating MCR-1-mediated colistin resistance. In this study, MCR-1 catalytic domain (namely cMCR-1) was expressed and co-crystallized together with d-xylose. X-ray crystallographic study at a resolution of 1.8 Å found that cMCR-1-d-xylose co-crystals fell under space group P212121, with unit-cell parameters a = 51.6 Å, b = 73.1 Å, c = 82.2 Å, α = 90°, β = 90°, γ = 90°. The asymmetric unit contained a single cMCR-1 molecule complexed with d-xylose and had a solvent content of 29.13%. The structural model of cMCR-1-d-xylose complex showed that a d-xylose molecule bound in the putative lipid A-binding pocket of cMCR-1, which might provide a clue for MCR-1 inhibitor development.
Structures and Fluorescent and Magnetic Behaviors of Newly Synthesized NiII and CuII Coordination Compounds
Authors: Zhang Lin-Wei , Li Xiao-Yan , Kang Quan-Peng , Liu Ling-Zhi , Ma Jian-Chun , Dong Wen-Kui
Published: April 2018

Newly designed three trinuclear coordination compounds [Ni3(L1)2(OAc)2(CH3OH)2] (1), [Ni3(L1)2(OAc)2(CH3CH2CH2OH)2]·2CH3CH2CH2OH (2) and [Ni3(L1)2(OAc)2(DMF)2]·1.71DMF (3) and one mononuclear coordination compound [Cu(L2)2] (4) have been synthesized by H2L1 and nickel(II) and copper(II) acetate hydrates in different solvents. Single-crystal X-ray structure determinations revealed that the coordination compounds 1–3 have analogous molecular structures. The coordination compounds 1, 2, and 3 were affected by the coordinated methanol, n-propanol, and N,N-dimethylformamide molecules, respectively, and the various coordinated solvent molecules give rise to the formation of the representive solvent-induced NiII coordination compounds. All the NiII atoms are six-coordinated with geometries of slightly distorted octahedron. Obviously, in the coordination compound 4, the expected salamo-like mono- or tri-nuclear CuII coordination compound has not been obtained, but a new CuII coordination compound [Cu(L2)2] has been gained. The Cu1 atom is four-coordinated and possesses a geometry of slightly distorted planar quadrilateral. Furthermore, the fluorescence properties of coordination compounds 1–4 and magnetic behavior of coordination compound 1 were investigated.
Optimization of Stress-Based Microfluidic Testing for Methicillin Resistance in Staphylococcus aureus Strains
Authors: Kalashnikov Maxim , Lee Jean C. , Sauer-Budge Alexis F.
Published: April 2018

The rapid evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacterial pathogens is driving the development of innovative, rapid antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) tools as a way to provide more targeted and timely antibiotic treatment. We have previously presented a stress-based microfluidic method for the rapid determination of antibiotic susceptibility in methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In this method, stress is used to potentiate the action of antibiotics, and cell death is measured as a proxy for susceptibility. The method allows antibiotic susceptibility to be determined within an hour from the start of the antibiotic introduction. However, the relatively low dynamic range of the signal (2–10% cell response) even with high antibiotic concentrations (10–50 µg/mL) left room for the method’s optimization. We have conducted studies in which we varied the flow patterns, the media composition, and the antibiotic concentration to increase the cell death response and concordantly decrease the required antibiotic concentration down to 1–3 µg/mL, in accordance with the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute’s (CLSI) guidelines for AST breakpoint concentrations.
Optimization of CNN through Novel Training Strategy for Visual Classification Problems
Authors: Rehman Sadaqat , Tu Shanshan , Rehman Obaid , Huang Yongfeng , Magurawalage Chathura , Chang Chin-Chen
Published: April 2018

The convolution neural network (CNN) has achieved state-of-the-art performance in many computer vision applications e.g., classification, recognition, detection, etc. However, the global optimization of CNN training is still a problem. Fast classification and training play a key role in the development of the CNN. We hypothesize that the smoother and optimized the training of a CNN goes, the more efficient the end result becomes. Therefore, in this paper, we implement a modified resilient backpropagation (MRPROP) algorithm to improve the convergence and efficiency of CNN training. Particularly, a tolerant band is introduced to avoid network overtraining, which is incorporated with the global best concept for weight updating criteria to allow the training algorithm of the CNN to optimize its weights more swiftly and precisely. For comparison, we present and analyze four different training algorithms for CNN along with MRPROP, i.e., resilient backpropagation (RPROP), Levenberg–Marquardt (LM), conjugate gradient (CG), and gradient descent with momentum (GDM). Experimental results showcase the merit of the proposed approach on a public face and skin dataset.
Measurement-Device Independency Analysis of Continuous-Variable Quantum Digital Signature
Authors: Shang Tao , Li Ke , Liu Jianwei
Published: April 2018

With the practical implementation of continuous-variable quantum cryptographic protocols, security problems resulting from measurement-device loopholes are being given increasing attention. At present, research on measurement-device independency analysis is limited in quantum key distribution protocols, while there exist different security problems for different protocols. Considering the importance of quantum digital signature in quantum cryptography, in this paper, we attempt to analyze the measurement-device independency of continuous-variable quantum digital signature, especially continuous-variable quantum homomorphic signature. Firstly, we calculate the upper bound of the error rate of a protocol. If it is negligible on condition that all measurement devices are untrusted, the protocol is deemed to be measurement-device-independent. Then, we simplify the calculation by using the characteristics of continuous variables and prove the measurement-device independency of the protocol according to the calculation result. In addition, the proposed analysis method can be extended to other quantum cryptographic protocols besides continuous-variable quantum homomorphic signature.
Li-Po Battery Charger Based on the Constant Current/Voltage Parallel Resonant Converter Operating in ZVS
Authors: Pernía Alberto M. , Díaz-González Juan , Prieto Miguel J. , Fernández-Rubiera José A. , Fernández-Cabanas Manés , Nuño-García Fernando
Published: April 2018

Battery requirements for electrical vehicles are continuously becoming more demanding in terms of energy density and reliability. Nowadays, batteries for drones must be able to supply 100 A for 15 min, not to mention the specifications required for batteries in electrical vehicles. These specifications result in more stringent specifications for battery chargers. They are required to be more efficient, flexible, and, as with any another power equipment, to have reduced size and weight. Since the parallel resonant converter can operate as a current source and as a voltage source, this paper presents a battery charger power stage for lithium ion polymer batteries, based on the above topology, operating in zero voltage switching mode, and implementing frequency and duty cycle control.
Opportunities and Barriers to Bioenergy Conversion Techniques and Their Potential Implementation on Swine Manure
Authors: Sharara Mahmoud A. , Sadaka Sammy S.
Published: April 2018

The objectives of this article are to offer a comprehensive evaluation of the opportunities and barriers for swine manure conversion technologies and to shed light on the gaps that might require further investigation to improve the applicability of these technologies. The challenges of manure management have been propagated alongside the global growth of swine production. Various technologies that target the production of energy, fuels, and bioproducts from swine manure have been reported. These technologies include pretreatments, i.e., drying, and solid separation; biological techniques, i.e., composting, anaerobic digestion, and biodrying; and thermochemical techniques, i.e., combustion, gasification, pyrolysis, liquefaction, and carbonization. The review highlights the yields and qualities of products, i.e., energy, gaseous fuel, liquid fuel, and solid fuel, of each technology. It exhibits that the choice of a conversion technology predominantly depends on the feedstock properties, the specifics of the conversion technique, the market values of the end products as well as the local regulations. The challenges associated with the presented techniques are discussed to ameliorate research and development in these areas. The notable finding of this paper is that there is a need for full-scale research in the area of thermochemical conversion of solid-separated swine manure.
In Situ Experiment and Numerical Model Validation of a Borehole Heat Exchanger in Shallow Hard Crystalline Rock
Authors: Janiszewski Mateusz , Caballero Hernández Enrique , Siren Topias , Uotinen Lauri , Kukkonen Ilmo , Rinne Mikael
Published: April 2018

Accurate and fast numerical modelling of the borehole heat exchanger (BHE) is required for simulation of long-term thermal energy storage in rocks using boreholes. The goal of this study was to conduct an in situ experiment to validate the proposed numerical modelling approach. In the experiment, hot water was circulated for 21 days through a single U-tube BHE installed in an underground research tunnel located at a shallow depth in crystalline rock. The results of the simulations using the proposed model were validated against the measurements. The numerical model simulated the BHE’s behaviour accurately and compared well with two other modelling approaches from the literature. The model is capable of replicating the complex geometrical arrangement of the BHE and is considered to be more appropriate for simulations of BHE systems with complex geometries. The results of the sensitivity analysis of the proposed model have shown that low thermal conductivity, high density, and high heat capacity of rock are essential for maximising the storage efficiency of a borehole thermal energy storage system. Other characteristics of BHEs, such as a high thermal conductivity of the grout, a large radius of the pipe, and a large distance between the pipes, are also preferred for maximising efficiency.
Toward an Elasticity of Chip-N-Saw: Demand and Supply Models of Chip-N-Saw Stumpage in Louisiana
Authors: Tanger Shaun M. , Parajuli Rajan
Published: April 2018

Softwood chip-n-saw (CNS) is a relatively new stumpage product in the sawtimber- and pulpwood-dominated stumpage markets in the U.S. South. Based on a quarterly data series from 2003 to 2016, this study estimates the demand and supply models of the softwood CNS stumpage market in Louisiana. The two-stage least squares (2SLS) results reveal that own price elasticity of demand (PED) is price elastic, and the cross-price elasticity (XED)with sawtimber approaches unit elasticity. On the supply side, CNS is price inelastic in supply (PES), but more responsive to own price changesthan sawtimber quantity supplied. Further, severance tax increases are found to decrease the supply of CNS, indicating that suppliers are responsive to severance tax incidence. As the first empirical estimation of CNS, the findings should be of interest to those involved in the analysis of Southeastern stumpage markets.
An Inventory-Based Regeneration Biomass Model to Initialize Landscape Scale Simulation Scenarios
Authors: Poschenrieder Werner , Biber Peter , Pretzsch Hans
Published: April 2018

Dynamic landscape simulation of the forest requires an initial regeneration stock specific to the characteristics of each simulated stand. Forest inventories, however, are sparse with regard to regeneration. Moreover, statistical regeneration models are rare. We introduce an inventory-based statistical model type that (1) quantifies regeneration biomass as a fundamental regeneration attribute and (2) uses the overstory’s quadratic mean diameter (Dq) together with several other structure attributes and the Site Index as predictors. We form two such models from plots dominated by European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), one from national forest inventory data and the other from spatially denser federal state forest inventory data. We evaluate the first one for capturing the predictors specific to the larger scale level and the latter one to infer the degree of landscape discretization above which the model bias becomes critical due to yet unquantified determinants of regeneration. The most relevant predictors were Dq, stand density, and maximum height (significance level p < 0.0001). If plot data sets for evaluation differed by the forest management unit in addition to the average diameter, the bias range among them increased from 0.1-fold of predicted biomass to 0.3-fold.
Radial Growth Behavior of Pines on Romanian Degraded Lands
Authors: Silvestru-Grigore Ciprian Valentin , Dinulică Florin , Spârchez Gheorghe , Hălălișan Aureliu Florin , Dincă Lucian Constantin , Enescu Raluca Elena , Crișan Vlad Emil
Published: April 2018

More than a third of Romania’s surface has low-productive soils, at the same time exposed to risks of climatic phenomena and generating high economic loss. Afforestation with pine has been the most common solution for the recovery of sheet erosion. Many of the pines grown on such land have run down. This paper presents the results of the first dendroecological investigation of degraded lands in Romania, 80 years after the first ecological reconstruction. In this way, the effects of reconstruction were assessed, supporting the adoption of future solutions for the improvement and efficiency of recovered ecosystems. Reconstructed radial growth was set against rainfall, air temperature, and management history. A total of 330 black pine and Scots pine trees (Pinus sylvestris L. and Pinus nigra Arn.) of different ages and social positions from 11 stands of different densities were cored for retrospective tree-ring analysis. Scots pine has made better use of these sites, with a better growth rate than black pine especially in plantations with lower survival and on dominant trees. The dynamics of radial growth distinguish the two pine species, with Scots pine showing an accentuated juvenile growth spurt and bigger growth range. The growth decline is predominantly a maturation effect that begins when the tree is around 40 years old and seems to be irreversible. After this age, weak or moderated removal is not enough to revive growth. The contribution of climate (air temperature and rainfall) to the last radial increments in decline is 3–57% and is higher than in the previous decades. On moderately degraded land by farming and grazing, the mixture of Scots pine and black pine, rather than monocultures, proved to be a sustainable solution. Dendrochronological surveying of restored ecosystems allows development of management strategies, which becomes critically important in the circumstances of climate warming.
A Hierarchical Classification of Wildland Fire Fuels for Australian Vegetation Types
Authors: Cruz Miguel G. , Gould Jim S. , Hollis Jen J. , McCaw W. Lachie
Published: April 2018

Appropriate categorisation and description of living vegetation and dead biomass is necessary to support the rising complexity of managing wildland fire and healthy ecosystems. We propose a hierarchical, physiognomy-based classification of wildland fire fuels—the Bushfire Fuel Classification—aimed at integrating the large diversity of Australian vegetation into distinct fuel types that are easily communicated and quantitatively described. At its basis, the classification integrates life form characteristics, height, and foliage cover. The hierarchical framework, with three tiers, describes fuel types over a range of application requirements and fuel description accuracies. At the higher level, the fuel classification identifies a total of 32 top-tier fuel types divided into 9 native forest or woodland, 2 plantation, 10 shrubland, 7 grassland, and 4 other fuel types: wildland urban interface areas, horticultural crops, flammable wetlands, and nonburnable areas. At an intermediate level, the classification identifies 51 mid-tier fuel types. Each mid-tier fuel type can be divided into 4 bottom-tier fuel descriptions. The fuel types defined within the tier system are accompanied by a quantitative description of their characteristics termed the “fuel catalogue”. Work is currently under way to link existing Australian state- and territory-based fuel and vegetation databases with the fuel classification and to collate existent fuel characteristics information to populate the fuel catalogue. The Bushfire Fuel Classification will underpin a range of fire management applications that require fuel information in order to determine fire behaviour and risk, fuel management, fire danger rating, and fire effects.
On Nearly Newtonian Potentials and Their Implications to Astrophysics
Authors: Capistrano Abraao J. S.
Published: April 2018

We review the concept of the slow motion problem in General relativity. We discuss how the understanding of this process may imprint influence on the explanation of astrophysical problems
Accurate Classification of NF1 Gene Variants in 84 Italian Patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Authors: Stella Alessandro , Lastella Patrizia , Loconte Daria Carmela , Bukvic Nenad , Varvara Dora , Patruno Margherita , Bagnulo Rosanna , Lovaglio Rosaura , Bartolomeo Nicola , Serio Gabriella , Resta Nicoletta
Published: April 2018

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is one of the most common autosomal dominant genetic diseases. It is caused by mutations in the NF1 gene encoding for the large protein, neurofibromin. Genetic testing of NF1 is cumbersome because 50% of cases are sporadic, and there are no mutation hot spots. In addition, the most recognizable NF1 clinical features—café-au-lait (CALs) spots and axillary and/or inguinal freckling—appear early in childhood but are rather non-specific. Thus, the identification of causative variants is extremely important for early diagnosis, especially in paediatric patients. Here, we aimed to identify the underlying genetic defects in 72 index patients referred to our centre for NF1. Causative mutations were identified in 58 subjects, with 29 being novel changes. We evaluated missense and non-canonical splicing mutations with both protein and splicing prediction algorithms. The ratio of splicing mutations detected was higher than that reported in recent patients’ series and in the Human Gene Mutation Database (HGMD). After applying in silico predictive tools to 41 previously reported missense variants, we demonstrated that 46.3% of these putatively missense mutations were forecasted to alter splicing instead. Our data suggest that mutations affecting splicing can be frequently underscored if not analysed in depth. We confirm that hamartomas can be useful for diagnosing NF1 in children. Lisch nodules and cutaneous neurofibromas were more frequent in patients with frameshifting mutations. In conclusion, we demonstrated that comprehensive in silico analysis can be a highly specific method for predicting the nature of NF1 mutations and may help in assuring proper patient care.
The Effects on Parapatric Divergence of Linkage between Preference and Trait Loci versus Pleiotropy
Authors: Servedio Maria R. , Bürger Reinhard
Published: April 2018

Attempts to uncover the genetic basis of female mating preferences and male signals involved in reproductive isolation have discovered intriguing cases in which loci contributing to these traits co-localize in their chromosomal positions. Such discoveries raise the question of whether alleles at certain loci contribute pleiotropically to male and female components of premating reproductive isolation, versus whether these loci are merely tightly linked. Here we use population genetic models to assess the degree to which these alternatives affect both short term and equilibrium patterns of trait (signal) and preference divergence. We take advantage of the fact that in the case of secondary contact between populations exchanging migrants, patterns of divergence across the range of preference strengths differ markedly when preferences and traits are controlled by the same locus (the case of phenotype matching) versus when they are on separate chromosomes. We find that tight linkage between preference and trait loci can mimic the pleiotropic pattern for many generations (roughly the reciprocal of the recombination rate), but that any recombination ultimately results in equilibrium patterns of divergence far more similar to those found when preferences and traits are on separate chromosomes. In general, our finding that pleiotropy results in quite different long-term patterns from tight linkage highlights the importance of distinguishing between these possibilities in empirical systems.
Modelling Ephemeral Gully Erosion from Unpaved Urban Roads: Equifinality and Implications for Scenario Analysis
Authors: Gudino-Elizondo Napoleon , Biggs Trent , Bingner Ronald , Yuan Yongping , Langendoen Eddy , Taniguchi Kristine , Kretzschmar Thomas , Taguas Encarnacion , Liden Douglas
Published: April 2018

Modelling gully erosion in urban areas is challenging due to difficulties with equifinality and parameter identification, which complicates quantification 0of management impacts on runoff and sediment production. We calibrated a model (AnnAGNPS) of an ephemeral gully network that formed on unpaved roads following a storm event in an urban watershed (0.2 km2) in Tijuana, Mexico. Latin hypercube sampling was used to create 500 parameter ensembles. Modelled sediment load was most sensitive to the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) curve number, tillage depth (TD), and critical shear stress (τc). Twenty-one parameter ensembles gave acceptable error (behavioural models), though changes in parameters governing runoff generation (SCS curve number, Manning’s n) were compensated by changes in parameters describing soil properties (TD, τc), resulting in uncertainty in the optimal parameter values. The most suitable parameter combinations or “behavioural models” were used to evaluate uncertainty under management scenarios. Paving the roads increased runoff by 146–227%, increased peak discharge by 178–575%, and decreased sediment load by 90–94% depending on the ensemble. The method can be used in other watersheds to simulate runoff and gully erosion, to quantify the uncertainty of model-estimated impacts of management activities on runoff and erosion, and to suggest critical field measurements to reduce uncertainties in complex urban environments.
The Effects of Health Coverage Schemes on Length of Stay and Preventable Hospitalization in Seoul
Authors: Kim Jungah , Shon Changwoo
Published: April 2018

The Medical Aid program is government’s medical benefit program to secure the minimum livelihood and medical services for low-income Korean households. In Seoul, the number of Medical Aid beneficiaries has grown, driving an increases in the length of stay (LOS) and healthcare cost. Until now, studies have focused on quantity indicators, such as LOS, but only a few studies have been conducted on the service quality. We investigated both LOS and the preventable hospitalization (PH) rate as proxy indicators for the quantity and quality of services provided to Medical Aid beneficiaries in Seoul. To understand the program’s impact, we extracted appropriate data of Medical Aid beneficiaries and data of the lower 20% of National Health Insurance (NHI) enrollees, performed Propensity Score Matching (PSM), and controlled the variables related to disease severity. The differences between Medical Aid beneficiaries and NHI enrollees were estimated using multilevel analysis. The LOS of Medical Aid beneficiaries was longer, and the preventable hospitalization (PH) rate was higher than that of NHI enrollees. It implies that these beneficiaries did not receive timely and adequate healthcare services, despite their high rate of service utilization. Thus, indicators such as patient’s visits and screening related to PHs should be included in management policies to improve primary care.
Assessing the Impact of Urbanization on Direct Runoff Using Improved Composite CN Method in a Large Urban Area
Authors: Li Chunlin , Liu Miao , Hu Yuanman , Shi Tuo , Zong Min , Walter M. Todd
Published: April 2018

Urbanization is one of the most widespread anthropogenic activities, which brings a range of physical and biochemical changes to hydrological system and processes. Increasing direct runoff caused by land use change has become a major challenge for urban ecological security. Reliable prediction of the quantity and rate of surface runoff is an inherently difficult and time-consuming task for large ungauged urban areas. In this study, we combined Geographic Information System and remote sensing technology with an improved Soil Conservation Service curve number model to evaluate the effects of land use change on direct runoff volume of the four-ring area in Shenyang, China, and analyzed trends of direct runoff at different scales. Through analyzing trends of direct runoff from 1984 to 2015 at different scales, we explored how urbanization and other potential factors affect direct runoff changes. Total direct runoff volume increased over time, and trends varied from the inner urban area to suburban area. Zones 1 and 2 had a tendency toward decreasing direct runoff volume and risks, while Zones 3 and 4 showed gradual increases at both regional and pixel scales. The most important influence on direct runoff change was urban surface change caused by urbanization. This study presents a framework for identifying hotspots of runoff increase, which can provide important guidance to urban managers in future green infrastructure planning, in the hopes of improving the security of urban water ecological patterns.
Mapping European Welfare Models: State of the Art of Strategies for Professional Integration and Reintegration of Persons with Chronic Diseases
Authors: Scaratti Chiara , Leonardi Matilde , Silvaggi Fabiola , Ávila Carolina C. , Muñoz-Murillo Amalia , Stavroussi Panayiota , Roka Olga , Burger Helena , Fheodoroff Klemens , Tobiasz-Adamczyk Beata , Sabariego Carla , Esteban Eva , Gruber Sonja , Svestkova Olga , Halvorsen Rune , Kadyrbaeva Asel , Ferraina Sabrina
Published: April 2018

Background: Persons with chronic diseases (PwCDs) often experience work-related problems, and innovative actions to improve their participation in the labor market are needed. In the frame of the European (EU) Pathways Project, the aim of the study is to compare existing strategies (policies, systems, and services) for professional (re-)integration of PwCDs and mental health conditions available at both European and national level between different European welfare models: Scandinavian, Continental, Anglo-Saxon, Mediterranean, and “Post-Communist”. Method: The European strategies were identified by an overview of relevant academic and grey literature searched through Medline and internet searches, while national strategies were explored through questionnaires and in-depth interviews with national relevant stakeholders. Results: The mapping of existing strategies revealed that, both at European and national level, PwCDs are often considered as part of the group of “persons with disabilities” and only in this case they can receive employment support. European countries put in place actions to support greater labor market participation, but these differ from country to country. Conclusion: Strategies targeting “persons with disabilities” do not necessarily address all the needs of persons with chronic diseases. Countries should consider the importance of employment for all to achieve smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth.
Assessment of Whole Body and Local Muscle Fatigue Using Electromyography and a Perceived Exertion Scale for Squat Lifting
Authors: Ahmad Imran , Kim Jung-Yong
Published: April 2018

This research study aims at addressing the paradigm of whole body fatigue and local muscle fatigue detection for squat lifting. For this purpose, a comparison was made between perceived exertion with the heart rate and normalized mean power frequency (NMPF) of eight major muscles. The sample consisted of 25 healthy males (age: 30 ± 2.2 years). Borg’s CR-10 scale was used for perceived exertion for two segments of the body (lower and upper) and the whole body. The lower extremity of the body was observed to be dominant compared to the upper and whole body in perceived response. First mode of principal component analysis (PCA) was obtained through the covariance matrix for the eight muscles for 25 subjects for NMPF of eight muscles. The diagonal entries in the covariance matrix were observed for each muscle. The muscle with the highest absolute magnitude was observed across all the 25 subjects. The medial deltoid and the rectus femoris muscles were observed to have the highest frequency for each PCA across 25 subjects. The rectus femoris, having the highest counts in all subjects, validated that the lower extremity dominates the sense of whole body fatigue during squat lifting. The findings revealed that it is significant to take into account the relation between perceived and measured effort that can help prevent musculoskeletal disorders in repetitive occupational tasks.
Stress and Alterations in the Pain Matrix: A Biopsychosocial Perspective on Back Pain and Its Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Wippert Pia-Maria , Wiebking Christine
Published: April 2018

The genesis of chronic pain is explained by a biopsychosocial model. It hypothesizes an interdependency between environmental and genetic factors provoking aberrant long-term changes in biological and psychological regulatory systems. Physiological effects of psychological and physical stressors may play a crucial role in these maladaptive processes. Specifically, long-term demands on the stress response system may moderate central pain processing and influence descending serotonergic and noradrenergic signals from the brainstem, regulating nociceptive processing at the spinal level. However, the underlying mechanisms of this pathophysiological interplay still remain unclear. This paper aims to shed light on possible pathways between physical (exercise) and psychological stress and the potential neurobiological consequences in the genesis and treatment of chronic pain, highlighting evolving concepts and promising research directions in the treatment of chronic pain. Two treatment forms (exercise and mindfulness-based stress reduction as exemplary therapies), their interaction, and the dose-response will be discussed in more detail, which might pave the way to a better understanding of alterations in the pain matrix and help to develop future prevention and therapeutic concepts.
Brca1 Is Upregulated by 5-Aza-CdR and Promotes DNA Repair and Cell Survival, and Inhibits Neurite Outgrowth in Rat Retinal Neurons
Authors: Wang Qiyun , Xu Lijun , Chen Pei , Xu Zhuojun , Qiu Jin , Ge Jian , Yu Keming , Zhuang Jing
Published: April 2018

Previous studies have reported that Brca1 acts as a “hinge” in the development of the central nervous system (CNS). However, the precise role of Brca1 in rat retinal neurons remains unclear. Here, we found that Brca1 is developmentally downregulated and silenced in adult retina. Brca1 was upregulated in rat primary retinal neurons by 5-Aza-2′-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-CdR) treatment. Moreover, the upregulation of Brca1 by both 5-Aza-CdR and transgenic Brca1 promoted genomic stability and improved cell viability following exposure to ionizing radiation (IR). Furthermore, transgenic Brca1 significantly inhibited neurite outgrowth of retinal neurons, which implicates that Brca1 silencing promotes cell differentiation and determines neuronal morphology. Taken together, our results reveal a biological function of Brca1 in retinal development.
The Role of miRNAs in Virus-Mediated Oncogenesis
Authors: Vojtechova Zuzana , Tachezy Ruth
Published: April 2018

To date, viruses are reported to be responsible for more than 15% of all tumors worldwide. The oncogenesis could be influenced directly by the activity of viral oncoproteins or by the chronic infection or inflammation. The group of human oncoviruses includes Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) or polyomaviruses, and transregulating retroviruses such as HIV or HTLV-1. Most of these viruses express short noncoding RNAs called miRNAs to regulate their own gene expression or to influence host gene expression and thus contribute to the carcinogenic processes. In this review, we will focus on oncogenic viruses and summarize the role of both types of miRNAs, viral as well as host’s, in the oncogenesis.
Assembly and Functional Analysis of an S/MAR Based Episome with the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Gene
Authors: De Rocco Davide , Pompili Barbara , Castellani Stefano , Morini Elena , Cavinato Luca , Cimino Giuseppe , Mariggiò Maria A , Guarnieri Simone , Conese Massimo , Del Porto Paola , Ascenzioni Fiorentina
Published: April 2018

Improving the efficacy of gene therapy vectors is still an important goal toward the development of safe and efficient gene therapy treatments. S/MAR (scaffold/matrix attached region)-based vectors are maintained extra-chromosomally in numerous cell types, which is similar to viral-based vectors. Additionally, when established as an episome, they show a very high mitotic stability. In the present study we tested the idea that addition of an S/MAR element to a CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) expression vector, may allow the establishment of a CFTR episome in bronchial epithelial cells. Starting from the observation that the S/MAR vector pEPI-EGFP (enhanced green fluorescence protein) is maintained as an episome in human bronchial epithelial cells, we assembled the CFTR vector pBQ-S/MAR. This vector, transfected in bronchial epithelial cells with mutated CFTR, supported long term wt CFTR expression and activity, which in turn positively impacted on the assembly of tight junctions in polarized epithelial cells. Additionally, the recovery of intact pBQ-S/MAR, but not the parental vector lacking the S/MAR element, from transfected cells after extensive proliferation, strongly suggested that pBQ-S/MAR was established as an episome. These results add a new element, the S/MAR, that can be considered to improve the persistence and safety of gene therapy vectors for cystic fibrosis pulmonary disease.
Proinflammatory Markers, Chemokines, and Enkephalin in Patients Suffering from Dry Eye Disease
Authors: Nicolle Pierre , Liang Hong , Reboussin Elodie , Rabut Ghislaine , Warcoin Elise , Brignole-Baudouin Françoise , Melik-Parsadaniantz Stéphane , Baudouin Christophe , Labbe Antoine , Reaux-Le Goazigo Annabelle
Published: April 2018

Dry eye symptoms are among the leading complaints in ophthalmology. Dry eye disease (DED) is associated with significant pain affecting quality of life. Cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying ocular pain associated with DED are not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the ocular surface of patients with DED using in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) to quantify corneal nerve density and its relation with corneal inflammation. Gene expression of the proinflammatory markers HLA-DR, IL-6, CXCL12, and CCL2 and the receptors CXCR4 and CCR2, as well as PENK (enkephalin precursor), was therefore quantified in conjunctival impression cytology specimens. Thirty-two patients with DED and 15 age-matched controls were included. Subbasal nerve density was significantly lower in DED patients compared to controls. IVCM analysis revealed that DED patients had a significantly higher corneal dendritic cell density compared to controls. Conjunctival impression cytology analysis revealed that HLA-DR, IL-6, CXCR4, and CCL2/CCR2 mRNA levels were significantly increased in DED patients compared to controls, whereas PENK mRNA levels were significantly decreased. Similar results were obtained in vitro on immortalized human conjunctiva-derived epithelial cells challenged with osmotic stress that mimics the DED condition. These results demonstrate that proinflammatory molecules and endogenous enkephalin have opposite gene regulation during DED.
Mechanisms of ATP Release by Inflammatory Cells
Authors: Dosch Michel , Gerber Joël , Jebbawi Fadi , Beldi Guido
Published: April 2018

Extracellular nucleotides (e.g., ATP, ADP, UTP, UDP) released by inflammatory cells interact with specific purinergic P2 type receptors to modulate their recruitment and activation. The focus of this review is on stimuli and mechanisms of extracellular nucleotide release and its consequences during inflammation. Necrosis leads to non-specific release of nucleotides, whereas specific release mechanisms include vesicular exocytosis and channel-mediated release via connexin or pannexin hemichannels. These release mechanisms allow stimulated inflammatory cells such as macrophages, neutrophils, and endothelial cells to fine-tune autocrine/paracrine responses during acute and chronic inflammation. Key effector functions of inflammatory cells are therefore regulated by purinergic signaling in acute and chronic diseases, making extracellular nucleotide release a promising target for the development of new therapies.
Bone Cell Activity in Clinical Prostate Cancer Bone Metastasis and Its Inverse Relation to Tumor Cell Androgen Receptor Activity
Authors: Nordstrand Annika , Bovinder Ylitalo Erik , Thysell Elin , Jernberg Emma , Crnalic Sead , Widmark Anders , Bergh Anders , Lerner Ulf H. , Wikström Pernilla
Published: April 2018

Advanced prostate cancer frequently metastasizes to bone and induces a mixed osteoblastic/osteolytic bone response. Standard treatment for metastatic prostate cancer is androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) that also affects bone biology. Treatment options for patients relapsing after ADT are limited, particularly in cases where castration-resistance does not depend on androgen receptor (AR) activity. Patients with non-AR driven metastases may, however, benefit from therapies targeting the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, the current study specifically investigated bone cell activity in clinical bone metastases in relation to tumor cell AR activity, in order to gain novel insight into biological heterogeneities of possible importance for patient stratification into bone-targeting therapies. Metastasis tissue obtained from treatment-naïve (n = 11) and castration-resistant (n = 28) patients was characterized using whole-genome expression analysis followed by multivariate modeling, functional enrichment analysis, and histological evaluation. Bone cell activity was analyzed by measuring expression levels of predefined marker genes representing osteoclasts (ACP5, CTSK, MMP9), osteoblasts (ALPL, BGLAP, RUNX2) and osteocytes (SOST). Principal component analysis indicated a positive correlation between osteoblast and osteoclast activity and a high variability in bone cell activity between different metastases. Immunohistochemistry verified a positive correlation between runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) positive osteoblasts and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP, encoded by ACP5) positive osteoclasts lining the metastatic bone surface. No difference in bone cell activity was seen between treatment-naïve and castration-resistant patients. Importantly, bone cell activity was inversely correlated to tumor cell AR activity (measured as AR, FOXA1, HOXB13, KLK2, KLK3, NKX3-1, STEAP2, and TMPRSS2 expression) and to patient serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. Functional enrichment analysis indicated high bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling in metastases with high bone cell activity and low tumor cell AR activity. This was confirmed by BMP4 immunoreactivity in tumor cells of metastases with ongoing bone formation, as determined by histological evaluation of van Gieson-stained sections. In conclusion, the inverse relation observed between bone cell activity and tumor cell AR activity in prostate cancer bone metastasis may be of importance for patient response to AR and/or bone targeting therapies, but needs to be evaluated in clinical settings in relation to serum markers for bone remodeling, radiography and patient response to therapy. The importance of BMP signaling in the development of sclerotic metastasis lesions deserves further exploration.