bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Efficient Iterative Coupled Model for the Study of the Insurgence of the Morton Effect in Tilting Pad Journal Bearings
Authors: Griffini Duccio , Salvadori Simone , Meli Enrico , Panconi Simone , Ridolfi Alessandro , Rindi Andrea , Martelli Francesco , Panara Daniele , Baldassarre Leonardo
Published: August 2018

The introduction of the tilting pad journal bearing (TPJB) technology has allowed the achievement of important goals regarding turbomachinery efficiency in terms of high peripheral speed, enhanced power density, higher efficiency, and tolerated loads. That kind of technology overcomes the typical dynamic instability problem that affects fixed geometry bearings but, under certain working conditions, can be subjected to thermal instability phenomena, which are particularly significant at high peripheral speeds. In this work, the authors propose an innovative iterative procedure to forecast the thermal instability onset by using two coupled models, a thermo-structural one and a fluid dynamic one. The first one calculates the vibrations and the deformations due both to the external forces and to the temperature distribution applied on the rotor. The fluid dynamic model calculates the temperature profile by using as inputs the characteristics of the rotor, of the bearing and of the orbits, obtained by the thermos-structural code. After a general description of the iterative procedure is given, details of each tool are provided. Code validation is presented by means of comparison with available experimental and numerical data. Finally, the results of the iterative procedure are shown to prove its potential in forecasting instability thresholds. The model has shown a good trade-off between accuracy and efficiency, which is very critical when dealing with the extended time windows characterizing thermal instabilities. This research activity is in cooperation with the industrial partner Baker Hughes, a GE company, which provided the experimental data obtained thorough a dedicated experimental campaign.
Investigation on the Stall Inception Circumferential Position and Stall Process Behavior in a Centrifugal Compressor With Volute
Authors: Zhang Hanzhi , Yang Ce , Yang Dengfeng , Wang Wenli , Yang Changmao , Qi Mingxu
Published: August 2018

The present paper numerically and experimentally investigates the stall inception mechanisms in a centrifugal compressor with volute. Current studies about stall inception pay more attention on the axial compressors than the centrifugal compressors; especially, the circumferential position of stall inception onset and the stall process in the centrifugal compressor with asymmetric volute structure have not been studied sufficiently yet. In this work, the compressor performance experiment was conducted and the casing wall static pressure distributions were obtained by 72 static pressure sensors first. Then, the full annular unsteady simulations were carried out at different stable operating points, and the time-averaged static pressure distributions were compared with the experimental results. Finally, the stall process of the compressor was investigated by unsteady simulations in detail. Results show that the stall inception onset is determined by the impeller leading edge (LE) spillage flow, and the occurrence time of trailing edge (TE) backflow is prior to the LE spillage. The nonuniform static pressure circumferential distribution at impeller outlet induced by volute tongue causes the two stall inception regions locating at certain circumferential positions, which are 120 deg and 300 deg circumferential positions at impeller LE, corresponding to the circumferential static pressure peak (PP) and bulge regions at impeller outlet, respectively. In detail, at rotor revolution 2.86, a small disturbance that the incoming/tip clearance flow interface is perpendicular to axial direction occurs at 120 deg position, but this disturbance did not cause the compressor stall. Then at revolution 7, the first stall inception zone (spillage region) occurs at 120 deg position, causing the compressor stall with positive pressure ratio performance. At approximately revolution 23, the second stall inception zone occurs at about 300 deg position; however, both the intensity and size of this stall inception zone are smaller than those of the first stall inception zone. These two stall inception zones are not moving along circumferential direction because the stall inception circumferential position is dominated by the impeller outlet static pressure distribution. Even then, the obvious low frequency signals appear after the spillage crossing two blade LEs, because at this moment, the spillage vortex caused by the tip leakage flow begins to shed. However, due to the asymmetric structure limitation, this vortex cannot move across full annular. Furthermore, the spillage vortexes cause the local low static pressure zone ahead of blade LE in the centrifugal compressor with volute, suggesting that the spillage can be predicted by the steady casing wall static pressure measuring. The development of blockage zones at impeller LE is also investigated quantitatively by analyzing the stall blockage effect.
Experimental Investigation of an Inverted Brayton Cycle for Exhaust Gas Energy Recovery
Authors: Kennedy Ian , Chen Zhihang , Ceen Bob , Jones Simon , Copeland Colin D.
Published: August 2018

Exhaust gases from an internal combustion engine (ICE) contain approximately 30% of the total energy released from combustion of the fuel. In order to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions, there are a number of technologies available to recover some of the otherwise wasted energy. The inverted Brayton cycle (IBC) is one such technology. The purpose of this study is to conduct a parametric experimental investigation of the IBC. The hot air from a turbocharger test facility is used. The system is sized to operate using the exhaust gases produced by a 2 l turbocharged engine at motorway cruise conditions. A number of parameters are investigated that impact the performance of the system such as turbine inlet temperature, system pressure drop, and compressor inlet temperature. The results confirm that the output power is strongly affected by the turbine inlet temperature and system pressure drop. The study also highlights the packaging and performance advantages of using an additively manufactured heat exchanger to reject the excess heat. Due to rotordynamic issues, the speed of the system was limited to 80,000 rpm rather than the target 120,000 rpm. However, the results show that the system can generate a specific work of up to 17 kJ/kg at 80,000 rpm. At full speed, it is estimated that the system can develop approximately 47 kJ/kg, which represents a thermal efficiency of approximately 5%.
Tunability of liquid-infused silicone materials for biointerfaces
Authors: Sotiri Irini , Tajik Amanda , Lai Yang , Zhang Cathy T. , Kovalenko Yevgen , Nemr Carine R. , Ledoux Haylea , Alvarenga Jack , Johnson Edythe , Patanwala Huseini S. , Timonen Jaakko V. I. , Hu Yuhang , Aizenberg Joanna , Howell Caitlin
Published: August 2018

The ability to control the properties of bio-inspired liquid-infused surfaces is of interest in a wide range of applications. Liquid layers created using oil-infused polydimethylsiloxane elastomers offer a potentially simple way of accomplishing this goal through the adjustment of parameters such as curing agent ratio and oil viscosity. In this work, the effect of tuning these compositional parameters on the properties of the infused polymer are investigated, including infusion dynamics, stiffness, longevity in the face of continuous liquid overlayer removal, and resistance to bacterial adhesion. It is found that that curing agent concentration appears to have the greatest impact on the functionality of the system, with a lower base-to-curing agent ratio resulting in both increased longevity and improved resistance to adhesion by Escherichia coli. A demonstration of how these findings may be implemented to introduce patterned wettability to the surface of the infused polymers is presented by controlling the spatial arrangement of bacteria. These results demonstrate a new degree of control over immobilized liquid layers and will facilitate their use in future applications.
Dolphins maintain high echolocation vigilance for eight hours without primary (food) reinforcement
Authors: Banks Patchouly N. , Finneran James J. , Mulsow Jason , Xitco Mark J.
Published: August 2018

Studies have demonstrated that dolphins can maintain continuous auditory or echolocation vigilance for up to 5 to 15 days when provided with continuous primary reinforcement (i.e., food reward after each correct detection). The goals of this study were to examine whether dolphins could perform an 8-h echolocation vigilance task featuring variable reinforcement schedules, where correct responses were intermittently rewarded, and variable acoustic secondary reinforcement (feedback) patterns. Three dolphins were trained to echolocate simulated targets and press a response paddle upon detecting echoes. Three conditioned reinforcement conditions were utilized: no (acoustic) feedback, acoustic feedback, and structured acoustic feedback. The probability of primary reinforcement following a correct response began at 50% for all dolphins but was sequentially reduced to 25%, 12%, 6%, and 0% each time performance criteria were met. Conditions including acoustic feedback resulted in two dolphins successfully performing the echolocation vigilance task under the 0% primary reinforcement schedule (8 h before receiving primary reinforcement). None of the animals reached 0% reinforcement probability in the no feedback condition. The results demonstrate that dolphins can perform experimental echolocation tasks for extended time periods without primary reinforcement and suggest that secondary reinforcement may be important to maintain this behavior.
Organic and solution-processed tandem solar cells with 17.3% efficiency
Authors: Meng Lingxian , Zhang Yamin , Wan Xiangjian , Li Chenxi , Zhang Xin , Wang Yanbo , Ke Xin , Xiao Zuo , Ding Liming , Xia Ruoxi , Yip Hin-Lap , Cao Yong , Chen Yongsheng
Published: August 2018

Tailoring tandem organics

Tandem solar cells can boost efficiency by using a wider range of the solar spectrum. The bandgap of organic semiconductors can be tuned over a wide range, but, for a two-terminal device that directly connects the cells, the currents produced must be nearly equal. Meng
et al.
used a semiempirical analysis to choose well-matched top- and bottom-cell active layers. They used solution processing to fabricate an inverted tandem device that has a power conversion efficiency as high as 17.4%.

Science
, this issue p.
1094
Structure of the human PKD1-PKD2 complex
Authors: Su Qiang , Hu Feizhuo , Ge Xiaofei , Lei Jianlin , Yu Shengqiang , Wang Tingliang , Zhou Qiang , Mei Changlin , Shi Yigong
Published: August 2018

A complex implicated in kidney health

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a common genetic disease that can lead to kidney failure. Mutations in the proteins PKD1 and PKD2 are linked to the disease, but the function of these proteins remains unclear, both in physiology and disease. PKD1 has been implicated in the sensing of chemical and mechanical force stimuli, and PKD2 is proposed to be a calcium ion channel. Su
et al.
show that the transmembrane regions form a PKD1-PKD2 complex assembled in a 1:3 ratio. Their high-resolution cryo–electron microscopy structure confirms that the complex adopts transient receptor potential channel architecture, with some distinctive features. Mapping disease-causing mutations onto the structure suggests that pathogenesis may come from incorrect folding or trafficking of the complex rather than from disruption of channel activity.

Science
, this issue p.
eaat9819
Epstein-Barr Virus Type 2 Infects T Cells and Induces B Cell Lymphomagenesis in Humanized Mice
Authors: Coleman Carrie B. , Lang Julie , Sweet Lydia A. , Smith Nicholas A. , Freed Brian M. , Pan Zenggang , Haverkos Bradley , Pelanda Roberta , Rochford Rosemary
Published: August 2018

EBV is a well-established B cell-tropic virus. However, we have recently shown that the EBV type 2 (EBV-2) strain also infects primary T cells in culture and in healthy Kenyan children. This finding suggests that EBV-2, unlike the well-studied EBV-1 strain, utilizes the T cell compartment to persist. As EBV is human specific, studies to understand the role of T cells in EBV-2 persistence require an
in vivo
model. Thus, we developed an EBV-2 humanized mouse model, utilizing immunodeficient mice engrafted with human cord blood CD34
+
stem cells. Characterization of the EBV-2-infected humanized mice established that both T cells and B cells are infected by EBV-2 and that the majority of infected mice develop a B cell lymphoma resembling diffuse large B cell lymphoma. This new
in vivo
model can be utilized for studies to enhance our understanding of how EBV-2 infection of T cells contributes to persistence and lymphomagenesis.
Influence of rib impact on thoracic gunshot trauma
Authors: Rodrigues Samantha Alda , Guey J , Plummer T C H , Pullen A , Shaw B , Kieser D C
Published: August 2018

Introduction

The influence of rib impact on thoracic gunshot trauma remains unclear, despite its high occurrence. This study therefore investigates the effect of rib impact on a bullet’s terminal properties and injury severity.

Methods

Two bullets were used: 5.56×45 mm (full charge and reduced charge) and 7.62×51 mm (full charge). For each bullet, three impact groups were tested: (1) plain 10% ballistic gelatin (control) conditioned at 4°C, (2) intercostal impact, and (3) rib impact, the latter two tested with samples of porcine thoracic walls embedded in gelatin. Analysis included penetration depth, trajectory change, yaw, fragmentation, velocity reduction, energy deposition and temporary and permanent cavity characteristics.

Results

No significant differences were observed for most variables. Differences were found between rib (and intercostal) impact and the control groups, suggesting that the inclusion of thoracic walls produces an effect more significant than the anatomical impact site. Effects were ammunition specific. For the 7.62×51 mm round, rib impact caused an earlier onset of yaw and more superficial permanent gelatin damage compared with plain gelatin. This round also formed a larger temporary cavity on rib impact than intercostal impact. Rib (and intercostal impact) created a smaller temporary cavity than the control for the 5.56×45 mm round. For the reduced-charge 5.56×45 mm round, rib and intercostal impact produced greater velocity reduction compared with plain gelatin.

Conclusions

This study provides new insights into the role of rib impact in thoracic gunshot injuries, and indicates that the effects are ammunition dependent. Unlike the 5.56×45 mm rounds, rib impact with the 7.62×51 mm rounds increases the risk of severe wounding.
Impact of intensive mining on the distribution of heavy metals in water and sediment of Anning River, southwest China
Authors: Shi Zeming , Wang Xinyu , Shi Yue , Ni Shijun , Li Yunzhen , Wang Dewei , Wang Ruilin
Published: August 2018

To investigate the impact of intensive mining on pollution of heavy metals in aqueous environment, water samples and seven sediment profiles adjacent to REE mine, iron mine, and V-Ti magnetite mine at Anning River, southwest China were collected and analyzed. Our study reveals that: (1) no significant pollution in water near mining regions of Maoniuping REE and Lugu iron mines were observed; (2) most outliers of As, Cd, Ni, Pb, Zn, and Cu in water are distributed at sites near towns not mining regions, except Cr that has been detected only in downstream waters near the V-Ti magnetite mine, because Cr was enriched in V-Ti magnetite mine and existed as oxyanions in water so that CrO
4
2−
can be preserved longer than heavy metals existing as cations in alkaline water; (3) although these trace elements in sediment profiles indicated significantly decreased recently, most heavy metals in sediment of Anning River were considerably higher than local background values; (4) source identification of heavy metals in sediment near mining regions is complicated, because the natural contribution from undeveloped ore can also increase content of heavy metals in sediment which cannot be directly assigned as anthropogenic activities.
Compiler Support for the Fortran 2003, 2008, TS29113, and 2018 Standards Revision 24
Authors: Chivers Ian D. , Sleightholme Jane
Published: August 2018

This is a repeating article in Fortran Forum. The first version appeared in Fortran Forum in April 2007. The basis for the entries in the original list of features was a report by John Reid. An electronic version can be found at: ftp://ftp.nag.co.uk/sc22wg5/N1601-N1650/N1648.pdf

If you are a compiler vendor and would like to be included in future versions of this table please email one of us with details and they will be added to the table and published in Fortran Forum.
Sodium nitrite augments lungS-nitrosylation and reverses chronic hypoxic pulmonary hypertension in juvenile rats
Authors: Jankov Robert P. , Daniel Kathrine L. , Iny Shira , Kantores Crystal , Ivanovska Julijana , Ben Fadel Nadya , Jain Amish
Published: August 2018

Deficient nitric oxide (NO) signaling plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of chronic neonatal pulmonary hypertension (PHT). Physiological NO signaling is regulated by S-nitrosothiols (SNOs), which act both as a reservoir for NO and as a reversible modulator of protein function. We have previously reported that therapy with inhaled NO (iNO) increased peroxynitrite-mediated nitration in the juvenile rat lung, although having minimal reversing effects on vascular remodeling. We hypothesized that sodium nitrite (NaNO2) would be superior to iNO in enhancing lung SNOs, thereby contributing to reversal of chronic hypoxic PHT. Rat pups were exposed to air or hypoxia (13% O2) from postnatal days 1 to 21. Dose-response prevention studies were conducted from days 1–21 to determine the optimal dose of NaNO2. Animals then received rescue therapy with daily subcutaneous NaNO2(20 mg/kg), vehicle, or were continuously exposed to iNO (20 ppm) from days 14–21. Chronic PHT secondary to hypoxia was both prevented and reversed by treatment with NaNO2. Rescue NaNO2increased lung NO and SNO contents to a greater extent than iNO, without causing nitration. Seven lung SNO proteins upregulated by treatment with NaNO2were identified by multiplex tandem mass tag spectrometry, one of which was leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4H). Rescue therapy with a LTA4H inhibitor, SC57461A (10 mg·kg−1·day−1sc), partially reversed chronic hypoxic PHT. We conclude that NaNO2was superior to iNO in increasing tissue NO and SNO generation and reversing chronic PHT, in part via upregulated SNO-LTA4H.
The neutrophil chemoattractant peptide proline-glycine-proline is associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Sharma Nirmal S. , Lal Charitharth Vivek , Li Jin-dong , Lou Xiang-yang , Viera Liliana , Abdallah Tarek , King Robert W. , Sethi Jaskaran , Kanagarajah Prashanth , Restrepo-Jaramillo Ricardo , Sales-Conniff Amanda , Wei Shi , Jackson Patricia L. , Blalock J. Edwin , Gaggar Amit , Xu Xin
Published: August 2018

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by unrelenting polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) inflammation and vascular permeability. The matrikine proline-glycine-proline (PGP) and acetylated PGP (Ac-PGP) have been shown to induce PMN inflammation and endothelial permeability in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we investigated the presence and role of airway PGP peptides in acute lung injury (ALI)/ARDS. Pseudomonas aeruginosa-derived lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was instilled intratracheally in mice to induce ALI, and increased Ac-PGP with neutrophil inflammation was noted. The PGP inhibitory peptide, arginine-threonine-arginine (RTR), was administered (it) 30 min before or 6 h after LPS injection. Lung injury was evaluated by detecting neutrophil infiltration and permeability changes in the lung. Pre- and posttreatment with RTR significantly inhibited LPS-induced ALI by attenuating lung neutrophil infiltration, pulmonary permeability, and parenchymal inflammation. To evaluate the role of PGP levels in ARDS, minibronchoalveolar lavage was collected from nine ARDS, four cardiogenic edema, and five nonlung disease ventilated patients. PGP levels were measured and correlated with Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) score, [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] (P/F), and ventilator days. PGP levels in subjects with ARDS were significantly higher than cardiogenic edema and nonlung disease ventilated patients. Preliminary examination in both ARDS and non-ARDS populations demonstrated PGP levels significantly correlated with P/F ratio, APACHE score, and duration on ventilator. These results demonstrate an increased burden of PGP peptides in ARDS and suggest the need for future studies in ARDS cohorts to examine correlation with key clinical parameters.
Responses of skeletal muscle size and anabolism are reproducible with multiple periods of unloading/reloading
Authors: Shimkus Kevin L. , Shirazi-Fard Yasaman , Wiggs Michael P. , Ullah Shaik T. , Pohlenz Camilo , Gatlin Delbert M. , Carroll Chad C. , Hogan Harry A. , Fluckey James D.
Published: August 2018

Mechanical unloading has long been understood to contribute to rapid and substantial adaptations within skeletal muscle, most notably, muscle atrophy. Studies have often demonstrated that many of the alterations resulting from disuse are reversed with a reintroduction of load and have supported the concept of muscle plasticity. We hypothesized that adaptations during disuse and recovery were a repeatable/reproducible phenomenon, which we tested with repeated changes in mechanical load. Rats were assigned to one of the following five groups: animals undergoing one or two bouts of hindlimb unloading (28 days), with or without recovery (56 day), or control. Following the completion of their final time point, posterior crural muscles were studied. Muscle sizes were lower following 28 days of disuse but fully recovered with a 56-day reloading period, regardless of the number of disuse/recovery cycles. Mixed protein fractional synthesis rates consistently reflected mass and loading conditions (supported by anabolic signaling), whereas the myofibrillar protein synthesis response varied among muscles. Amino acid concentrations were assessed in the gastrocnemius free pool and did not correlate with muscle atrophy associated with mechanical unloading. Muscle collagen concentrations were higher following the second unloading period and remained elevated following 56 days of recovery. Anabolic responses to alterations in load are preserved throughout multiple perturbations, but repeated periods of unloading may cause additive strain to muscle structure (collagen). This study suggests that whereas mass and anabolism are reproducibly reflective of the loading environment, repeated exposure to unloading and/or reloading may impact the overall structural integrity of muscle.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Repeatability should be considered a component of skeletal muscle plasticity during atrophy and recovery. Muscle anabolism is equally affected during a first or second disuse bout and returns equally with adequate recovery. Elevated muscle collagen concentrations observed after the second unloading period suggest altered structural integrity with repeated disuse.
Identification of a Novel Anticancer Oligopeptide from Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. and Its Enhanced Anticancer Effect by Targeted Nanoparticles In Vitro
Authors: He Dong-Liang , Jin Ri-Ya , Li Hui-Zhen , Liu Qing-Ye , Zhang Zhi-Jun
Published: August 2018

Objective. Perilla frutescens (L.) Brittis is a dietary herbal medicine and has anticancer effect. However, little is known about its anticancer peptides. This study is aimed at identifying cytotoxic oligopeptides which are loaded by a drug delivery system, to explore its anticancer application. Methods. The oligopeptides were isolated from enzymatic hydrolysates of Perilla seed crude protein by using ultrafiltration, gel filtration chromatography, and reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). The structure of the oligopeptide was determined using a peptide sequencer, and its anticancer effect was examined by the MTT assay. PSO (Perilla seed oligopeptide), the most potent anticancer oligopeptide, was loaded by chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) modified by hyaluronic acid (HA). Then, the particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency (EE), drug loading efficiency (LE), the cumulative release rates of NPs, and its cytotoxic effect on cancer cells were investigated. Results. Three fractions were isolated by the chromatography assay. The third fraction has a broad-spectrum and the strongest anticancer effect. This fraction was further purified and identified as SGPVGLW with a molecular weight of 715 Da and named as PSO. Then, PSO was loaded by HA-conjugated chitosan to prepare HA/PSO/C NPs, which had a uniform size of 216.7 nm, a zeta potential of 35.4 mV, an EE of 38.7%, and an LE of 24.3%. HA/PSO/C NPs had a slow release rate in vitro, with cumulative release reaching to 81.1%. Compared with free PSO, HA/PSO/C NPs showed notably enhanced cytotoxicity and had the strongest potency to human glioma cell line U251. Conclusion. This study demonstrated that PSO, a novel oligopeptide from Perilla seeds, has a broad-spectrum anticancer effect and could be encapsulated by NPs, which enhanced tumor targeting cytotoxicity with obvious controlled release. Our study indicates that Perilla seeds are valuable for anticancer peptide development.
Impact of Retinoic Acid on Immune Cells and Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Oliveira Luana de Mendonça , Teixeira Franciane Mouradian Emidio , Sato Maria Notomi
Published: August 2018

Vitamin A metabolite retinoic acid (RA) plays important roles in cell growth, differentiation, organogenesis, and reproduction and a key role in mucosal immune responses. RA promotes dendritic cells to express CD103 and to produce RA, enhances the differentiation of Foxp3+inducible regulatory T cells, and induces gut-homing specificity in T cells. Although vitamin A is crucial for maintaining homeostasis at the intestinal barrier and equilibrating immunity and tolerance, including gut dysbiosis, retinoids perform a wide variety of functions in many settings, such as the central nervous system, skin aging, allergic airway diseases, cancer prevention and therapy, and metabolic diseases. The mechanism of RA is interesting to explore as both a mucosal adjuvant and a combination therapy with other effective agents. Here, we review the effect of RA on innate and adaptive immunity with a special emphasis on inflammatory status.
Costimulation of Murine Osteoblasts with Interferon-γand Tumor Necrosis Factor-αInduces Apoptosis through Downregulation of Bcl-2 and Release of Cytochromecfrom Mitochondria
Authors: Iguchi Mayumi , Hiroi Miki , Kanegae Haruhide , Ohmori Yoshihiro
Published: August 2018

During chronic inflammation from diseases, such as periodontal disease, the proinflammatory cytokines interferon-gamma (IFNγ) and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNFα) alter bone remodeling. To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms, we investigated the effect of IFNγand TNFαon the proliferation and survival of clonal MC3T3-E1 mouse osteoblasts. We found that although IFNγor TNFαalone affected cell growth and survival only marginally, costimulation with both synergistically inhibited cell growth and reduced cell viability. The diminished cell viability was due to apoptosis, as indicated by increased TUNEL staining and elevated caspase 3, 8, and 9 activities. Western blot also showed that costimulation with IFNγand TNFαelicited cytochromecrelease and downregulated B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expression without affecting Bcl-2-associated X (Bax) protein expression. Furthermore, stable Bcl-2 overexpression significantly alleviated cell death following costimulation. Collectively, these results suggested that IFNγand TNFαelicited osteoblast apoptosis via cytochromecrelease from damaged mitochondria, caspase activation, and Bcl-2 downregulation.
Determining the Joint Effect of Obesity and Diabetes on All-Cause Mortality and Cardiovascular-Related Mortality following an Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Bauza Colleen , Martin Renee’ , Yeatts Sharon D. , Borg Keith , Magwood Gayenell , Selassie Anbesaw , Ford Marvella E.
Published: August 2018

Although obesity and diabetes mellitus, or diabetes, are independently associated with mortality-related events (e.g., all-cause mortality and cardiovascular-related mortality) following an ischemic stroke, little is known about the joint effect of obesity and diabetes on mortality-related events following an ischemic stroke. The aim of this study is to evaluate the joint effect of obesity and diabetes on mortality-related events in subjects with a recent ischemic stroke. Data from the multicenter Prevention Regimen for Effectively Avoiding Second Strokes (PRoFESS) trial was analyzed for this study. The joint effect of obesity and diabetes on mortality-related events was estimated via Cox proportional hazards regression models. No difference in the hazard of all-cause mortality following an ischemic stroke was observed between obese subjects with diabetes and underweight/normal-weight subjects without diabetes. In contrast, obese subjects with diabetes had an increased hazard of cardiovascular-related mortality following an ischemic stroke compared with underweight/normal-weight subjects without diabetes. Additionally, there was evidence of an attributable proportion due to interaction as well as evidence of a highly statistically significant interaction on the multiplicative scale for cardiovascular-related mortality. In this clinical trial cohort of ischemic stroke survivors, obesity and diabetes synergistically interacted to increase the hazard of cardiovascular-related mortality.
Correlation between Leisure Activity Time and Life Satisfaction: Based on KOSTAT Time Use Survey Data
Authors: Cha Yu-Jin
Published: August 2018

Rationale.This study aims to investigate the correlation between the available leisure activity time and life satisfaction of the healthy elderly and the factors affecting them.Method.For the analysis, data from the 2014 Time Use Survey (2014TUS) published by Statistics Korea (KOSTAT) was used. This study classified the detailed activities of 9228 subjects, based on the data in 2014TUS, and analyzed the differences in time use for occupation domains by age group.Results.It was found that a greater amount time used for outdoor leisure activities yielded a higher life satisfaction value. Differences were found in time use by occupation domains between younger and older groups. These showed higher life satisfaction for those with spouses, regular full-time jobs, higher education, and better health.Conclusion.Based on these results, in order to improve the quality of life (QoL) for older adults, it is necessary to develop various leisure programs that require dynamic physical activities and to prepare alternative policies at the national level to promote participation in leisure activities by older adults. This study will provide occupational therapists (OTs) with data they can use to help older adults who have difficulty in time usage through time management intervention to improve their life satisfaction and QoL.
Treatment of Concurrent Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura and Graves’ Disease: A Report on Two Cases
Authors: Lhotta Karl , Zitt Emanuel , Sprenger-Mähr Hannelore , Loacker Lorin , Becherer Alexander
Published: August 2018

Graves’ disease (GD) and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) are autoimmune diseases caused by autoantibodies against the TSH receptor (TRAb) and the enzyme ADAMTS13. We here report on two patients with concurrent GD and TTP, who achieved sustained remission of both conditions with the TTP treatment regimen and thiamazole. Both patients suffered from relapsing TTP and were diagnosed with GD concomitantly at the time of relapse. They were treated with steroids, plasma exchange, rituximab, and thiamazole. This therapy induced complete remission of TTP. TRAb levels also decreased rapidly and both patients developed subclinical hypothyroidism three and five weeks later. Our observations suggest that TTP and GD may be concomitant and that GD possibly triggers a relapse of TTP. The combination of thyrostatic treatment and immunosuppression with PE, rituximab, and steroids is able to induce rapid and prolonged remission of GD.
Diffusion Process and Reaction on a Surface
Authors: Fuziki M. E. K. , Lenzi M. K. , Ribeiro M. A. , Novatski A. , Lenzi E. K.
Published: August 2018

We investigate the influence of the surface effects on a diffusive process by considering that the particles may be sorbed or desorbed or undergo a reaction process on the surface with the production of a different substance. Our analysis considers a semi-infinite medium, where the particles may diffuse in contact with a surface with active sites. For the surface effects, we consider integrodifferential boundary conditions coupled with a kinetic equation which takes non-Debye relation process into account, allowing the analysis of a broad class of processes. We also consider the presence of the fractional derivatives in the bulk equations. In this scenario, we obtain solutions for the particles in the bulk and on the surface.
A Novel Analytical Method to Calculate Wheel-Rail Tangential Forces and Validation on a Scaled Roller-Rig
Authors: Bosso Nicola , Zampieri Nicolò
Published: August 2018

The study of railway dynamic strongly depends on the estimation of the tangential forces acting between wheel and rail. Simulation of the dynamical behaviour of railway vehicles is often performed using multibody codes, and the calculation of the contact forces must be efficient and accurate, even if the contact problem is strongly nonlinear. Therefore, the contact problem is still of great interest for researchers. This work proposes an analytical and efficient algorithm to calculate wheel-rail tangential forces. The proposed method is compared with the most commonly used algorithms under different conditions. In addition, experimental tests are performed on a scaled prototype on roller-rig to demonstrate that the method can be easily adjusted using experimental results. The benefit of the proposed method is to provide an analytical and fast solution, able to obtain accurate results and to allow corrections based on empirical evidence.
Markers of Glomerular and Tubular Damage in the Early Stage of Kidney Disease in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Żyłka Agnieszka , Dumnicka Paulina , Kuśnierz-Cabala Beata , Gala-Błądzińska Agnieszka , Ceranowicz Piotr , Kucharz Jakub , Ząbek-Adamska Anna , Maziarz Barbara , Drożdż Ryszard , Kuźniewski Marek
Published: August 2018

Diabetic kidney disease develops in half of genetically predisposed patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Early diagnosis of kidney damage and nephroprotective treatment are the ways of preventing the disease progression. Our aim was to evaluate selected laboratory markers of glomerular and tubular damage in T2DM patients with early stages of chronic kidney disease (G1/G2, A1/A2) for their associations with A2 albuminuria and early decline in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Among 80 T2DM patients with median eGFR of 92.4 ml/min/1.73 m2and median urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (uACR) of 4.69 mg/g, 19 had uACR > 30 mg/g (A2). Higher serum cystatin C, serum and urine neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin (NGAL), urine kidney injury molecule 1 (KIM-1), detectable urine transferrin and IgG, and lower serum uromodulin significantly predicted A2 albuminuria, urine KIM-1/creatinine ratio, and IgG being the best predictors. Albuminuria, urine NGAL/creatinine, and IgG correlated with diabetes duration. Albuminuria, urine NGAL, transferrin, IgG, and uromodulin correlated with diabetes control. In a subgroup of 29 patients, retrospective data were available on changes in eGFR and uACR over one year. Decline in eGFR was observed in 17 patients and increase in uACR in 10 patients. Serum and urine NGAL correlated with eGFR changes. Higher urine NGAL, KIM-1/creatinine ratio, and detectable IgG were significantly associated with the increase in uACR. Widely available markers, serum cystatin C, urine IgG, transferrin, and NGAL, may help in early assessment of kidney disease in T2DM patients; however, large prospective studies are needed to confirm the conclusion.
Deterministic Approaches for Simulation of Nitroxide-Mediated Radical Polymerization
Authors: Asteasuain Mariano
Published: August 2018

Since its development in the last decades, controlled radical polymerization (CRP) has become a very promising option for the synthesis of polymers with controlled structure. The design and production of tailor-made materials can be significantly improved by developing models capable of predicting the polymer properties from the operating conditions. Nitroxide-mediated polymerization (NMP) was the first of the three main variants of CRP to be discovered. Although it has lost preference over the years against other CRP alternatives, NMP is still an attractive synthesis method because of its simple experimental implementation and environmental friendliness. This review focuses on deterministic methods employed in mathematical models of NMP. It presents an overview of the different techniques that have been reported for modelling NMP processes in homogeneous and heterogeneous media, covering from the prediction of average properties to the latest techniques for modelling univariate and multivariate distributions of polymer properties. Finally, an outlook of model-based design studies of NMP processes is given.
Aqueous Extracts ofCordyceps kyushuensisKob Induce Apoptosis to Exert Anticancer Activity
Authors: Zhao Xuan , Yu Xing-hui , Zhang Guo-ying , Zhang Hai-ying , Liu Wei-wei , Zhang Chang-kai , Sun Ying-jie , Ling Jian-ya
Published: August 2018

Cancer has become the leading cause of mortality since 2010 in China. Despite the remarkable advances in cancer therapy, a low survival rate is still a burden to the society. The antineoplastic activity of aqueous extracts ofCordyceps kyushuensisKob (AECK) was measured in this study. Results showed that AECK can significantly inhibit the proliferation and viability of U937 and K562 when treated with different concentrations of AECK, and the IC50values of U937 and K562 were 31.23 μg/ml and 62.5 μg/ml, respectively. Hoechst 33258 staining showed that AECK could cause cell shrinkage, chromatin, condensation, and cytoplasmic blebbing, and DNA ladder experiment revealed the evident feature of DNA fragmentation which showed that AECK could induce cell apoptosis. Moreover, AECK gave rise to intrinsic apoptosis through increasing the amount of Ca2+and downregulating the expression of Bcl-2. Meanwhile, the level of Fas death receptor was elevated which indicated that AECK could lead to exogenous apoptosis in U937. The expressions of oncogene c-Myc and c-Fos were suppressed which manifested that AECK could negatively regulate the growth, proliferation, and tumorigenesis of U937 cells. This research presented the primary antitumor activity of AECK which would contribute to the widely use ofCordyceps kyushuensisKob as a functional food and medicine.
An Investigation of Damage Mechanism Induced by Earthquake in a Plate Girder Bridge Based on Seismic Response Analysis: Case Study of Tawarayama Bridge under the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake
Authors: Mya Nan Aye  , Kasai Akira , Shigeishi Mitsuhiro
Published: August 2018

This paper reports a damage survey and seismic analysis of a bridge. In the first part, the damage survey of some bridges that were affected by the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake was discussed. Among these bridges, the Tawarayama Bridge, which is a plate girder bridge located very close to an active fault line, was particularly considered. This bridge incurred severe damage because of the earthquakes’ epicenters very close to the bridge. The damage mechanism that can occur in this type of bridge was elucidated. During the damage survey, parts of Tawarayama Bridge were examined to determine the damage in order to examine the factors of occurrence and damage mechanism. In the second part, the seismic responses of Tawarayama Bridge were analyzed using ABAQUS software, and beam elements were applied for the structural members. Firstly, the time‐history responses were analyzed using both longitudinal and transverse direction earthquake ground motions separately and simultaneously to investigate the dynamic response of the bridge. Both undamped and damped conditions were considered. For the dynamic response analysis, the recorded earthquake acceleration data of Ozu Station were applied for both undamped and damped conditions considering both east‐west (EW) and north‐south (NS) directions simultaneously and the damped condition for these directions separately. In addition, a damped model was analyzed by applying design earthquake input data obtained from the Japanese Seismic Design Specifications for Highway Bridges. Consequently, five cases were established for seismic response analysis. Subsequently, the seismic responses of Tawarayama Bridge were investigated, and the behavior of the lower lateral members was examined considering the observed buckling of these members during the damage survey. The field survey and dynamic response analysis indicate that the buckling design of the lower lateral members should be considered in the future design of bridges.
Perception of Scavengers and Occupational Health Hazards Associated with Scavenging from a Waste Dumpsite in Pretoria, South Africa
Authors: Nyathi Senzeni , Olowoyo Joshua O. , Oludare Agboola
Published: August 2018

Objective. Scavenging is a source of income for most unskilled people in the developing countries. The present study investigated the perception of scavengers on scavenging and related health hazards from the Onderstepoort waste dumpsite in Pretoria, South Africa. Methods. Primary data were obtained through observation and implementation of a questionnaire to a total number of 53 scavengers (27 females and 26 males). The questionnaire was structured to extract information that included perceptions of scavengers about their activities, health implications of scavenging, monthly income, and behavioural norms. Results. Educated scavengers had high school education. The period of scavenging ranged from 10 to 15 years. The majority of scavengers did not use protective clothing. However, few used gloves and boots picked from the dumpsite. Common health issues reported included back pain, headache, diarrhoea, and shortness of breath. Some sustained injuries from sharp objects. Scavengers stored food among the waste; food could be either brought from home or bought from the vendors who cook at the dumpsite. Some drank bottled water picked from the waste. Eighty-five percent of females cleaned themselves immediately after work in temporary shacks at the dumpsite, while all males bathed at home. The average monthly income from scavenging was approximately R1372 (approximately $91 (US)). Women scavengers liked their job despite associated health risks. Conclusion. Scavengers would benefit if government and nongovernmental organisations educate them on the significance of protective clothing and good hygiene. Policymakers should assist the scavengers by providing necessary workshops on-site that will assist them to change their behaviour.
Cancer-Associated MORC2-Mutant M276I Regulates an hnRNPM-Mediated CD44 Splicing Switch to Promote Invasion and Metastasis in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Fang-Lin , Cao Jin-Ling , Xie Hong-Yan , Sun Rui , Yang Li-Feng , Shao Zhi-Ming , Li Da-Qiang
Published: August 2018

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most lethal subtype of breast cancer, with a high propensity for distant metastasis and limited treatment options, yet its molecular underpinnings remain largely unknown. Microrchidia family CW-type zinc finger 2 (MORC2) is a newly identified chromatin remodeling protein whose mutations have been causally implicated in several neurologic disorders. Here, we report that a cancer-associated substitution of methionine to isoleucine at residue 276 (M276I) of MORC2 confers gain-of-function properties in the metastatic progression of TNBC. Expression of mutant MORC2 in TNBC cells increased cell migration, invasion, and lung metastasis without affecting cell proliferation and primary tumor growth compared with its wild-type counterpart. The M276I mutation enhanced binding of MORC2 to heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein M (hnRNPM), a component of the spliceosome machinery. This interaction promoted an hnRNPM-mediated splicing switch of CD44 from the epithelial isoform (CD44v) to the mesenchymal isoform (CD44s), ultimately driving epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Knockdown of hnRNPM reduced the binding of mutant MORC2 to CD44 pre-mRNA and reversed the mutant MORC2-induced CD44 splicing switch and EMT, consequently impairing the migratory, invasive, and lung metastatic potential of mutant MORC2-expressing cells. Collectively, these findings provide the first functional evidence for the M276I mutation in promoting TNBC progression. They also establish the first mechanistic connection between MORC2 and RNA splicing and highlight the importance of deciphering unique patient-derived mutations for optimizing clinical outcomes of this highly heterogeneous disease.

Significance:A gain-of-function effect of a single mutation on MORC2 promotes metastasis of triple-negative breast cancer by regulating CD44 splicing. Cancer Res; 78(20); 5780–92. ©2018 AACR.
Intratumoral G100, a TLR4 Agonist, Induces Antitumor Immune Responses and Tumor Regression in Patients with Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Bhatia Shailender , Miller Natalie J. , Lu Hailing , Longino Natalie V. , Ibrani Dafina , Shinohara Michi M. , Byrd David R. , Parvathaneni Upendra , Kulikauskas Rima , ter Meulen Jan , Hsu Frank J. , Koelle David M. , Nghiem Paul
Published: August 2018

Purpose:

G100 is a toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) agonist that triggers innate and adaptive antitumor immune responses in preclinical models. This pilot study assessed the safety, efficacy, and immunologic activity of intratumoral (IT) administration of G100 in patients with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC).

Patients and Methods:

Patients with locoregional MCC (n = 3; cohort A) received neoadjuvant IT G100 (2 weekly doses at 5 μg/dose) followed by surgery and radiotherapy; patients with metastatic MCC (n = 7; cohort B) received 3 doses in a 6-week cycle and could receive additional cycles with/without radiotherapy.

Results:

IT G100 was safe and feasible in both neoadjuvant and metastatic settings. Treatment-related adverse events were mostly grade 1 or 2 injection-site reactions. IT G100 led to increased inflammation in the injected tumors with infiltration of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells and activation of immune-related genes. These proinflammatory changes were associated with local tumor regression and appeared to promote systemic immunity. All 3 cohort A patients successfully completed therapy; 2 patients remain recurrence free at 44+ and 41+ months, including 1 with a pathologic complete response after G100 alone. In cohort B, 2 patients achieved sustained partial responses, both lasting 33+ months after 2 cycles of therapy.

Conclusions:

In this first-in-human study, IT G100 induced antitumor immune responses, demonstrated acceptable safety, and showed encouraging clinical activity.

See related commentary by Marquez-Rodas et al., p. 1127