bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterizing Skeleton Structure and Stacking Properties of Continuous and Gap Graded Aggregate Mixtures
Authors: Bao Dexiang , Jiaqi Chen , Wang Hao , Liu Huanjiao , Zhang Jiupeng
Published: May 2019

In order to optimize the skeletal properties of granular pavement materials, a numerical discrete element model for continuous and gap graded aggregate mixtures was developed using a step‐by‐step filling method. The penetration tests were conducted, and indexes such as penetrating resistance, average coordination number, California bearing ratio, and void ratio of coarse aggregates obtained from the tests were used to evaluate the skeleton structure and the stacking properties of aggregate mixtures. The results show that the skeleton structure of aggregate mixtures is closely related to the combination of particle size. Smaller difference in particle size leads to stronger interference effect. The parameters of stacking properties of continuous and gap graded aggregate mixtures are not significantly different in the natural stacking condition. However, gap graded aggregate mixtures are affected by external loads significantly due to structural reconstruction.
Efficient Design Optimization Assisted by Sequential Surrogate Models
Authors: Iuliano Emiliano
Published: May 2019

The paper proposes a global optimization algorithm employing surrogate modeling and adaptive infill criteria. The surrogates are exploited to screen the design space and provide lower-fidelity predictions across it; on the other hand, specific criteria are designed to suggest new points for high-fidelity evaluation so as to enrich the optimizer database. Both Kriging and radial basis function network are used as surrogates with different training strategies. Sequential design is achieved by introducing several infill criteria according to the realization of the exploration-exploitation trade-off. Optimization results are provided both for scalable and analytical test functions and for a practical aerodynamic shape optimization problem.
HIS‐Based Semiactive Suspension Dual‐Frequency‐Range Switching Control to Improve Ride Comfort and Antiroll Performance
Authors: Wu Xiaojian , Qiu Xiang , Zhou Bing , Huang Juhua , Zhang Tingfang
Published: May 2019

The parameter sensitivity analysis of a hydraulically interconnected suspension (HIS) system shows that the sensitivity of the vibration responses in the bounce and roll modes to the hydraulic parameters are complementary. A novel HIS‐based semiactive control method was thereby proposed to improve ride comfort and antiroll performance. In addition, the classic sky‐hook max‐min damping switched strategy provides significant benefits around the body resonance, but otherwise performs similarly to, or sometimes even worse than, passive suspension. Therefore, a dual‐frequency‐range switching strategy, which has optimal max‐min damping in both frequency ranges, was developed for improving the ride comfort in a wider frequency bandwidth. In this study, a 9‐DOF HIS system dynamics model was established, and the hydraulically interconnected subsystem model was validated experimentally. Subsequently, the elastic and damping characteristics of the hydraulically interconnected subsystem, as well as the parameter sensitivity in bounce mode and roll mode, were analyzed. Next, the sensitive parameters were optimized under sinusoidal excitation at various frequencies, and a frequency‐range selector used to determine the excitation frequency range and adjust the shock absorber damping was designed. Finally, simulations in the frequency domain and time domain show that the proposed HIS‐based semiactive dual‐frequency‐range switching control suspension improves the ride comfort in a wider frequency bandwidth and enhances the antiroll performance in the transient and steady steering process.
Energy Consumption Analysis of a Large Building at Memorial University
Authors: Abdo-Allah Almahdi , Iqbal M. Tariq , Pope Kevin
Published: May 2019

In this paper, energy consumption analysis and a process to identify appropriate models based on heat dynamics for large structures are presented. The analysis uses data from heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system sensors, as well as data from the indoor climate and energy software (IDA Indoor Climate and Energy (IDA-ICE) 4.7 simulation program). Energy consumption data (e.g., power and hot water usage) agrees well with the new models. The model is applicable in a variety of applications, such as forecasting energy consumption and controlling indoor climate. In the study, both data-derived models and a grey-box model are tested, producing a complex building model with high accuracy. Also, a case study of the S. J. Carew building at Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland, is presented.
Uniportal VATS Coil-Assisted Resections for GGOs
Authors: Congedo Maria Teresa , Iezzi Roberto , Nachira Dania , Larici Anna Rita , Chiappetta Marco , Calandriello Lucio , Vita Maria Letizia , Meacci Elisa , Porziella Venanzio , Ismail Mahmoud , Manfredi Riccardo , Margaritora Stefano
Published: May 2019

Backgrounds. Although uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) theoretically allows the direct palpation of any zone of the lung through a small incision, sometimes it can be difficult to localize pure ground-glass opacities anyway. The aim of this study is to evaluate the usefulness and safety of preoperative computed tomography (CT)-guided microcoil localization of GGO nodules in patients undergoing uniportal VATS lung resection.Methods. The clinical data and CT images of 30 consecutive patients (30 pulmonary nodules) who underwent preoperative CT-guided coil localization and subsequent uniportal VATS resection, from January 2017 to October 2018, were reviewed.Results. All the CT-localization procedures have been performed with success (30/30) and the mean procedure time was 35±15 minutes. The mean size of the nodules was 15,53±6,72 mm, and the mean distance of the nodules from the pleural surface was 19,08±12,08 mm. Eleven nodules (36,7%) were pure ground-glass opacities and 19 (63,3%) were mixed ground-glass with a solid component of 50% or more. In 5 cases, the localization procedure was complicated by asymptomatic pneumothoraxes and in 1 case the pneumothorax required chest tube insertion. In any case a conversion to thoracotomy was avoided because all nodules were identified and resected through uniportal VATS.Conclusions. Preoperative CT-guided coil localization seems to be a feasible, safe, and accurate procedure. It makes uniportal VATS an easy approach even for resecting small, deep, and impalpable nodules.
Biomass Derivative Valorization Using Nano Core-Shell Magnetic Materials Based on Keggin-Heteropolyacids: Levulinic Acid Esterification Kinetic Study with N-Butanol
Authors: Escobar Angélica M. , Blanco Mirta N. , Martínez José J. , Cubillos Jairo A. , Romanelli Gustavo P. , Pizzio Luis R.
Published: May 2019

Magnetic materials based on Keggin heteropolyacids immobilized on mesoporous silica-coated magnetite particles with a core-shell structure were synthesized. The activity of the catalyst was studied in the esterification reaction of levulinic acid with n-butanol, and its kinetics was studied by the systematic variation of several reaction parameters, such as stirring speed, catalyst loading, molar ratio of reactants, and temperature. It was also seen that the reaction was free from any external mass transfer as well as intraparticle diffusion limitations and was intrinsically kinetically controlled. A second-order kinetic equation was found to be consistent with the experimental data. Also, an experimental activation energy of 17 kcal/mol was found. A solvent-free condition for this reaction has also added the green chemistry perception to the reaction. In addition, the resulting catalyst can be used repeatedly without significant decrease in activity.
Column Efficiency of Fluoride Removal Using Quaternized Palm Kernel Shell (QPKS)
Authors: Abu Bakar Ayu Haslija , Abdullah Luqman Chuah , Mohd Zahri Nur Amirah , Alkhatib Ma’an
Published: May 2019

In this research, the adsorption potential of quaternized palm kernel shell (QPKS) to remove F−from aqueous solution was investigated using fixed-bed adsorption column. Raw palm kernel shell waste was reacted with 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl trimethylammonium chloride (CHMAC) in order to modify the surface charge. The effects of inlet F−concentrations (2–12 mg/l) and QPKS bed height (2–10 cm) with optimum pH (pH = 3) on the breakthrough characteristics of the adsorption system were determined. In the fixed-bed column, breakthrough time increases with increasing bed height due to increasing amount of active site on adsorbents to adsorb the fluoride ion. Decreasing trend of breakthrough values was obtained with increasing initial fluoride concentration due to greater driving force for the transfer process to overcome the mass transfer resistance in the column. The adsorptions were fitted to three well-established fixed-bed adsorption models, namely, Thomas, Yoon–Nelson, and Adams–Bohart models. The results fitted well to the Thomas and Yoon–Nelson models with correlation coefficient,R2 ≥ 0.96.
Application of ELISA Technique and Human Microsomes in the Search for 11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Inhibitors
Authors: Kupczyk Daria , Studzińska Renata , Bilski Rafał , Woźniak Alina
Published: May 2019

The metabolic syndrome is defined by impaired carbohydrate metabolism and lipid disorders and often accompanied by hypertension, all of which will lead to obesity and insulin resistance. Glucocorticoids play a regulatory role in the metabolism of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. There is growing evidence for a role of glucocorticoids in the development of the metabolic syndrome. The most important factor that regulates the access of endogenous glucocorticoids to receptors after release of glucocorticoids and their diffusion into the cytoplasm of target cells is the steroid metabolism involving a microsomal enzyme, 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD). The changes in intracellular glucocorticoid metabolism in the pathogenesis of obesity indicate the participation of modulation by 11β-HSD1, which may represent a new therapeutic target for the treatment of diseases such as type 2 diabetes, visceral obesity, or atherosclerosis. The aim of our study was to determine the fast and effective method to assess inhibition activity of compounds in relation with 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. The material for this study was human liver and kidney microsomes. In this study we used ELISA technique using 96-well microplates coated with antibodies which were specific for analyzed enzymes. The method can quickly and efficiently measure the inhibition of both 11β-HSD1 and 11β-HSD2. This method can be used to search for and determine inhibitors of this enzyme. Cortisone and cortisol were used as the substrates for corresponding enzyme assays. Furthermore, 3-N-allyl-2-thiouracil derivatives were used by us for comparison purposes in developing the method, although, due to their structure, those derivatives have not previously been considered as potential inhibitors of 11β-HSD1. 3-N-Allyl-2-thiouracil derivatives are a group worth considering, because by modifying their structure (e.g., by introducing other substituents into the pyrimidine ring) it will be possible to obtain an increase in the activity of compounds in this regard. In conclusion, this study shows an efficient and fast method of determining inhibition activity of compounds in relation with 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.
Celiac Disease in Children, Particularly with Accompanying Type 1 Diabetes, Is Characterized by Substantial Changes in the Blood Cytokine Balance, Which May Reflect Inflammatory Processes in the Small Intestinal Mucosa
Authors: Vorobjova Tamara , Tagoma Aili , Oras Astrid , Alnek Kristi , Kisand Kalle , Talja Ija , Uibo Oivi , Uibo Raivo
Published: May 2019

Cytokines play a pivotal role in the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis inducing pro- or anti-inflammatory response and mucosal barrier function in celiac disease (CD) and type 1 diabetes (T1D). We aimed to compare the levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in CD patients without and with coexisting T1D, as well as to evaluate its association with the presence of enteroviruses (EV), regulatory T cells (Tregs), and dendritic cells (DCs) in small bowel mucosa. Altogether, 72 patients (median age 10.1 years) who had undergone small bowel biopsy were studied. The study group consisted of 24 patients with CD (median age 6.5 years), 9 patients with CD and concomitant T1D (median age 7.0 years), two patients with T1D (median age 8.5 years), and 37 patients (median age 14.0 years) with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGD) and a normal small bowel mucosa as controls. The levels of 33 cytokines in serum were measured by multiple analysis using the Milliplex® MAP Magnetic Bead assay. The densities of FOXP3+ Tregs, CD11c+ DC, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase+ (IDO+) DC, langerin+ (CD207+) DCs, and EV were evaluated by immunohistochemistry as described in our previous studies. Circulating anti-EV IgA and IgG were evaluated using ELISA. The most important finding of the study is the significant increase of the serum levels of IL-5, IL-8, IL-13, IL-15, IL-17F, IL-22, IL-27, IP-10, MIP-1β, sIL-2Rα, sTNFRII, and TNFαin CD patients compared to controls and its correlation with the degree of small bowel mucosa damage graded according to the Marsh classification. The leptin level was higher in females in all study groups. The levels of IL-2, IL-6, IL-12 (P70), IL-15, IP-10, and IFNγcorrelated significantly with the density of FOXP3+ Tregs inlamina propriaof the small bowel mucosa, which supports the evidence about the signaling role of these cytokines in the peripheral maintenance of FOXP3+ Tregs. At the same time, a significant negative correlation occurred between the level of IL-4 and density of FOXP3+ Tregs in controls. Another important finding of our study was the correlation of IL-17F, IP-10, sTNFRII, MCP-1, and GM-CSF with the density of EV-positive cells in thelamina propriaof the small bowel mucosa. Correlation of MIP-1 (CCL-4) with CD103+ DC and langerin+ DC densities may point to their significance in the recruitment of immune cells into thelamina propriaand in driving the inflammatory response in CD patients. Our results suggest the predominance of Th1 and Th17 immune responses over EV VP1 protein in CD and T1D patients. The significant elevation of Th2 cytokines, like IL-5 and IL-13, but not IL-4, in CD patients and its correlation with the degree of small bowel mucosa damage could reflect the role of these cytokines in gut defense and inflammation.
Interaction between Endothelin-1 and Left Stellate Ganglion Activation: A Potential Mechanism of Malignant Ventricular Arrhythmia during Myocardial Ischemia
Authors: Wang Zhenya , Li Shuyan , Lai Huanzhu , Zhou Liping , Meng Guannan , Wang Menglong , Lai Yanqiu , Wang Zhuo , Chen Hui , Zhou Xiaoya , Jiang Hong
Published: May 2019

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is synthesized primarily by endothelial cells. ET-1 administration in vivo enhances the cardiac sympathetic afferent reflex and sympathetic activity. Previous studies have shown that sympathetic hyperactivity promotes malignant ventricular arrhythmia (VA). The aim of this study was to investigate whether ET-1 could activate the left stellate ganglion (LSG) and promote malignant VA. Twelve male beagle dogs who received local microinjections of saline (control, n=6) and ET-1 into the LSG (n=6) were included. The ventricular effective refractory period (ERP), LSG function, and LSG activity were measured at different time points. VA was continuously recorded for 1 h after left anterior descending occlusion (LADO), and LSG tissues were then collected for molecular detection. Compared to that of the control group, local ET-1 microinjection significantly decreased the ERP and increased the occurrence of VA. In addition, local microinjection of ET-1 increased the function and activity of the LSG in the normal and ischemic hearts. The expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines and the protein expression of c-fos and nerve growth factor (NGF) in the LSG were also increased. More importantly, endothelin A receptor (ETA-R) expression was found in the LSG, and its signaling was significantly activated in the ET-1 group. LSG activation induced by local ET-1 microinjection aggravates LADO-induced VA. Activated ETA-R signaling and the upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines in the LSG may be responsible for these effects.
Dynamics and Control on a Discrete Multi-Inventory System
Authors: Wang Yuzhen , Xu Li
Published: May 2019

In this paper, a discrete two item inventory model for deteriorating items with a linear stock dependent demand rate without regular supply is given first; then, regular supply is taken into account, which may be regarded as feedback control. An objective function is formed to calculate the net profit with respect to possible profits and possible loss. A necessary criterion for the steady state optimal control problem for optimizing the objective function subjected to the constraints given by the difference equations of the inventory is obtained. At last, an improved model is put forward.
The Exponential Stabilization of a Class of n‐D Chaotic Systems via the Exact Solution Method
Authors: Luo Runzi , Fu Jiaojiao , Su Haipeng
Published: May 2019

This paper treats the exponential stabilization of a class of n‐D chaotic systems. A new control approach which is called the exact solution method is presented. The most important feature of this method is that the solution of the system under consideration can be carefully designed to converge exponentially to the origin. Based on this method, the exponential stabilization of a class of n‐D chaotic systems and its application in controlling chaotic system with unknown parameter are presented. The Genesio‐Tesi system is taken to give the numerical simulation which is completely consistent with the theoretical analysis presented in this paper.
Can We Trust the Literature on Risk Factors and Triggers for Low Back Pain? A Systematic Review of a Sample of Contemporary Literature
Authors: Ardakani Emad M. , Leboeuf-Yde Charlotte , Walker Bruce F.
Published: May 2019

Background. Risk factors (RFs) for the “disease” of low back pain (LBP) are probably different from the triggers of new episodes of LBP. Investigating RFs for the onset of the “disease” and the triggers of LBP is problematic if researchers fail to discern the different types of pain-free status of participants at and before baseline. There is a difference between never having had LBP and having been pain-free for a certain period only. In this review, we assessed the dependability of contemporary literature on RFs and triggers of LBP, in relation to the “disease” and the episodes, respectively.Methods. A literature search from 2010 until 2017 was performed. Information on the definitions of LBP, potential RFs/triggers, and study design was extracted. Studies were reclassified based on the type of LBP concerning the “disease,” episode, or mixed/unclear/chronic. RFs and triggers were grouped into major domains, and positive associations listed, respectively, for the “disease” and episodes.Results. In 42 of the included 47 articles, it was not clear if the authors investigated RFs for the “disease” of LBP or triggers of new episodes. Only one study properly reported RFs for the onset of the “disease” of LBP, and four studies were deemed suitable to investigate triggers for a new episode of LBP. No study reproduced the results of other included studies.Conclusion. Trustworthy information regarding RFs and triggers of LBP is rare in the current literature. Future research needs to use precise definitions of LBP (onset of the “disease” vs. episodes) and nominate the timing of the associated factors in relation to the types of LBP as these are two critical factors when studying causes of LBP.
Global Asymptotic Almost Periodic Synchronization of Clifford‐Valued CNNs with Discrete Delays
Authors: Li Yongkun , Xiang Jianglian
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we are concerned with Clifford‐valued cellular neural networks (CNNs) with discrete delays. Since Clifford algebra is a unital associative algebra and its multiplication is noncommutative, to overcome the difficulty of the noncommutativity of the multiplication of Clifford numbers, we first decompose the considered Clifford‐valued neural network into real‐valued systems. Second, based on the Banach fixed point theorem, we establish the existence and uniqueness of almost periodic solutions of the considered neural networks. Then, by designing a novel state‐feedback controller and constructing a proper Lyapunov function, we study the global asymptotic synchronization of the considered neural networks. Finally, a numerical example is presented to show the effectiveness and feasibility of our results.
Theoretical and Experimental Study on Damage Properties of Surrounding Rock under High‐Frequency Constant Impact Load
Authors: Liu Zhi , Wu Wanrong , Yao Zhuang , Hao Qianhua
Published: May 2019

This paper aims to investigate the mechanics and damage properties of granite by drilling a center hole in Φ50 × 100 mm standard granite specimens under high‐frequency constant impact load and then applying them to the uniaxial compression experiment through the INSTRON 1346 universal material testing machine. According to the experimental results, under constant impact load, as the center hole diameter increases, the peak stress of the rock specimen increases accordingly and the effective elastic modulus of the rock specimen decreases first and then increases gradually. In this study, by theoretical analysis of the surrounding rock damage caused under high‐frequency impact load, a statistical damage constitutive model that has taken surrounding rock damage into consideration is established on the basis of the Weibull distribution. Meanwhile, the experimental curve is obtained to analyze the damage and damage radius of surrounding rock under high‐frequency impact load. The results show that the surrounding rock damage and damage ratio (the ratio of damage radius to center hole radius) of rock decrease with the increase of the center hole diameter. This model that can effectively describe the damage laws of surrounding rock under impact load serves as a guide for the design and development of composite rock‐drilling tools.
Aralia taibaiensis Protects against I/R-Induced Brain Cell Injury through the Akt/SIRT1/FOXO3a Pathway
Authors: Duan Jialin , Cui Jia , Zheng Hongnan , Xi Miaomiao , Guo Chao , Weng Yan , Yin Ying , Wei Guo , Cao Jinyi , Wang Yanhua , Wen Aidong , Qiao Boling
Published: May 2019

Background. Saponin from Aralia taibaiensis (sAT) showed excellent antioxidative effects in several models; however, its effects on brain cells were unknown to us. The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effects of sAT on ischemia/reperfusion- (I/R-) induced injury and clarify its mechanisms. Methods. In vitro, HT22 cells were pretreated with sAT and then subjected to I/R. Apoptosis rate, mitochondrial function, and antioxidant proteins were measured. To clarify the mechanisms, siRNA were used. In vivo, sAT was pretreated through intragastric administration for 7 days and the I/R model was induced. The neurobehavioral scores, infarction volumes, and some cytokines in the brain were measured. Protein levels were investigated by Western blotting. Results. The results showed that sAT treatment significantly protected cells from I/R-induced cell apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction. The antioxidant protein levels were increased in a dose-dependent manner. Further study revealed that sAT induced the deacetylation and phosphorylation of PGC-1α and FOXO3a. sAT treatment also induced the phosphorylation levels of Akt and the expression levels of SIRT1. Using the specific targeted siRNA transfection, the interplay relationship between Akt, SIRT1, PGC-1α, and FOXO3a was verified. Furthermore, the same protective effects were also observed in rats subjected to I/R. Conclusion. sAT protected brain cells from I/R-induced mitochondrial oxidative stress and dysfunction through regulating the Akt/SIRT1/FOXO3a/PGC-1α pathway.
Review of Wireless Acoustic Sensor Networks for Environmental Noise Monitoring in Smart Cities
Authors: Alías Francesc , Alsina-Pagès Rosa Ma.
Published: May 2019

Nowadays, more than half of the world’s population lives in urban areas. Since this proportion is expected to keep rising, the sustainable development of cities is of paramount importance to guarantee the quality of life of their inhabitants. Environmental noise is one of the main concerns that has to be addressed, due to its negative impact on the health of people. Different national and international noise directives and legislations have been defined during the past decades, which local authorities must comply with involving noise mapping, action plans, policing, and public awareness, among others. To this aim, a recent change in the paradigm for environmental noise monitoring has been driven by the rise of Internet of Things technology within smart cities through the design and development of wireless acoustic sensor networks (WASNs). This work reviews the most relevant WASN-based approaches developed to date focused on environmental noise monitoring. The proposals have moved from networks composed of high-accuracy commercial devices to the those integrated by ad hoc low-cost acoustic sensors, sometimes designed as hybrid networks with low and high computational capacity nodes. After describing the main characteristics of recent WASN-based projects, the paper also discusses several open challenges, such as the development of acoustic signal processing techniques to identify noise events, to allow the reliable and pervasive deployment of WASNs in urban areas together with some potential future applications.
The Effect of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Motor Symptoms in Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia
Authors: Antczak J. , Pera J. , Dąbroś M. , Koźmiński W. , Czyżycki M. , Wężyk K. , Dwojak M. , Banach M. , Slowik A.
Published: May 2019

Background. Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) is a heterogeneous group of inherited disorders affecting predominantly the motor cortex and pyramidal tract, which results in slowly progressing gait disorders, as well as spasticity and weakness of lower extremities. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been previously investigated as a therapeutic tool for similar motor deficits in a number of neurologic conditions. The aim of this randomized, controlled trial was to investigate the therapeutic potential of rTMS in various forms of HSP, including pure and complicated forms, as well as adrenomyeloneuropathy. Methods. We recruited 15 patients (five women and 10 men; mean age 43.7±10.6 years) with the mentioned forms of HSP. The intervention included five sessions of bilateral 10 Hz rTMS over primary motor areas of the muscles of lower extremities and five sessions of similar sham stimulation. Results. One patient dropped out due to seizure, and 14 patients completed the study protocol. After real stimulation, the strength of the proximal and distal muscles of lower extremities increased, and the spasticity of the proximal muscles decreased. Change in spasticity was still present during follow-up assessment. No effect was observed regarding gait velocity. No changes were seen after sham stimulation. A post hoc analysis revealed an inverse relation between motor threshold and the change of the strength after active rTMS. Conclusions. rTMS may have potential in improving weakness and spasticity of lower extremities in HSP, especially of proximal muscles whose motor areas are located more superficially. This trial is registered with Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03627416.
Minimum Time Search in Real-World Scenarios Using Multiple UAVs with Onboard Orientable Cameras
Authors: Pérez-Carabaza Sara , Besada-Portas Eva , Lopez-Orozco José Antonio , Pajares Gonzalo
Published: May 2019

This paper proposes a new evolutionary planner to determine the trajectories of several Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and the scan direction of their cameras for minimizing the expected detection time of a nondeterministically moving target of uncertain initial location. To achieve this, the planner can reorient the UAVs cameras and modify the UAVs heading, speed, and height with the purpose of making the UAV reach and the camera observe faster the areas with high probability of target presence. Besides, the planner uses a digital elevation model of the search region to capture its influence on the camera likelihood (changing the footprint dimensions and the probability of detection) and to help the operator to construct the initial belief of target presence and target motion model. The planner also lets the operator include intelligence information in the initial target belief and motion model, in order to let him/her model real-world scenarios systematically. All these characteristics let the planner adapt the UAV trajectories and sensor poses to the requirements of minimum time search operations over real-world scenarios, as the results of the paper, obtained over 3 scenarios built with the modeling aid-tools of the planner, show.
A Pilot Study of a Novel through-the-Scope Self-Expandable Metallic Airway Stents Delivery System in Malignant Central Airway Obstruction
Authors: Jiang Jun-hong , Zeng Da-xiong , Wang Chang-guo , Chen Yan-bin , Shen Dan , Mao Jin-yu , Turner J. Francis , Huang Jian-an
Published: May 2019

Objective. Self-expandable metallic (SEM) airway stents are an important approach to malignant central airway obstruction (CAO). SEM airway stent insertions are usually performed under fluoroscopic guidance over a guide wire placed through a flexible bronchoscope often resulting in a longer procedure time and exposure to radiation. In this pilot study, we designed a novel delivery system of the through-the-scope (TTS) SEM airway stent insertion and observed its feasibility. Methods. From Jan 2015 to Sept 2016, 25 consecutive patients with inoperable malignant CAO were enrolled requiring airway stent implantation. All patients were followed up to death or at least 6 months. Results. 36 TTS stents were inserted into 25 patients using a flexible bronchoscope under general anesthesia or local anesthesia. All stents were successfully deployed directly through the working channel (2.8 mm diameter) of the flexible bronchoscope in 91.7% (33/36) of the subjects. The mMRC score and stenosis grade improved significantly after stent implantation. The common stent-related complications were secretion retention (25%, 9/36), development of granulation tissue (13.9%, 5/36), tumor in-growth (13.9%, 5/36), and hemoptysis (8.3%, 3/36). The 6-month overall survival (OS) was 44% (11/25). Conclusion. The novel TTS stent release system was an effective and safe approach in malignant central airway obstruction.
Atomic Force Microscopy on Biological Materials Related to Pathological Conditions
Authors: Stylianou Andreas , Kontomaris Stylianos-Vasileios , Grant Colin , Alexandratou Eleni
Published: May 2019

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is an easy-to-use, powerful, high-resolution microscope that allows the user to image any surface and under any aqueous condition. AFM has been used in the investigation of the structural and mechanical properties of a wide range of biological matters including biomolecules, biomaterials, cells, and tissues. It provides the capacity to acquire high-resolution images of biosamples at the nanoscale and allows at readily carrying out mechanical characterization. The capacity of AFM to image and interact with surfaces, under physiologically relevant conditions, is of great importance for realistic and accurate medical and pharmaceutical applications. The aim of this paper is to review recent trends of the use of AFM on biological materials related to health and sickness. First, we present AFM components and its different imaging modes and we continue with combined imaging and coupled AFM systems. Then, we discuss the use of AFM to nanocharacterize collagen, the major fibrous protein of the human body, which has been correlated with many pathological conditions. In the next section, AFM nanolevel surface characterization as a tool to detect possible pathological conditions such as osteoarthritis and cancer is presented. Finally, we demonstrate the use of AFM for studying other pathological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), through the investigation of amyloid fibrils and viruses, respectively. Consequently, AFM stands out as the ideal research instrument for exploring the detection of pathological conditions even at very early stages, making it very attractive in the area of bio- and nanomedicine.
Laparoscopic Surgery for Gastric Cancer: The European Point of View
Authors: Chevallay Mickael , Jung Minoa , Berlth Felix , Seung-Hun Chon , Morel Philippe , Mönig Stefan
Published: May 2019

Objective. Multiple Asian studies have proved the feasibility of laparoscopic approach for surgical treatment of gastric cancer. The difference between Asian and European patients could limit their application in Europe. We reviewed the literature for European studies comparing open gastrectomy with laparoscopic approach in the treatment of gastric cancer. Method. We searched the keywords gastric cancer and laparoscopy in MEDLINE and EMBASE. We included all studies published between 1990 and 2016 and conducted in Europe. Result. We found 1 randomized and 13 cohort studies which compared laparoscopic with open gastrectomy. We found no mean difference in the number of lymph nodes harvested between laparoscopic and open group (mean difference: -0.49; 95% CI: -2.42; 1.44, p=0.62) and no difference of short-term or long-term mortality (short-term odds ratio: 0.74, p=0.47; long-term odds ratio: 0.65, p=0.11). We found a longer operative time in the laparoscopic group (mean difference: 35.75 minutes, p<0.01) but lesser reoperation rate than the open group (odds ratio: 1.55 p=0.01). Conclusion. European based population studies found results comparable with their Asian counterpart. In the current state of evidence, minimally invasive surgery for gastric cancer is safe and can achieve the same oncological results.
Cavitation Detection in Centrifugal Pump Based on Interior Flow‐Borne Noise Using WPD‐PCA‐RBF
Authors: Dong Liang , Wu Kan , Zhu Jian-cheng , Dai Cui , Zhang Li-xin , Guo Jin-nan
Published: May 2019

Cavitation detection is particularly essential for operating efficiency and stability of pumps. In this work, to improve the accuracy and efficiency of identification, an approach combining wavelet packet decomposition (WPD) with principal component analysis (PCA) and radial basic function (RBF) neural network is introduced to detect the cavitation status for centrifugal pumps. The cavitation performance and interior flow‐borne noise are measured under three different flow conditions. Then, time‐frequency domain analysis is performed on the interior flow‐borne noise signal using WPD, and the energy coefficient of each node is calculated to determine the optimal decomposition frequency band. Six‐feature parameters are extracted based on frequency‐division statistics, including three time‐domain features and three wavelet packet features. After that, the PCA is applied for dimensionality reduction. Finally, three cavitation statuses of noncavitation, inception cavitation, and serious cavitation are identified adopting RBF neural network. The results show that the comprehensive identification rate of the proposed method for three cavitation statuses reaches 98.2% with low identification error. The method based on interior flow‐borne noise analysis can be well applied for on‐line monitoring and diagnosis of pump industry.
Position Statement on Secukinumab in the Management of Plaque Psoriasis: The Malaysian Perspective
Authors: Johar Asmah , Thevarajah Suganthi , Heng Agnes , Chan Lee Chin , Ch’ng Chin Chwen , Mohd Safdar Najeeb Ahmad , Muniandy Pubalan , Taib Tarita , Tan Wooi Chiang , Tey Kwee Eng
Published: May 2019

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease affecting nearly 10% of dermatologic patients in Malaysia. Treatment options include topical agents and phototherapy as well as nonbiologic and biologic systemic therapy. Mild psoriasis can often be managed with topical agents. However, managing moderate to severe psoriasis is more challenging and may require systemic treatment with nonbiologics or biologics. Despite the availability of several biologics, there are many unmet clinical needs, which may be addressed by secukinumab, an IL-17A inhibitor. This position statement is based on an expert panel discussion and is intended to provide dermatologists an overview of existing options as well as to provide a better understanding of secukinumab and how it can be integrated into current practice. During the discussion, panel members examined current approaches and the role of secukinumab in plaque psoriasis management. Panel members estimated that up to 30% of patients have moderate to severe psoriasis but only 1-2% receive biologics. Highlights from the discussion were that (i) the threshold for biologic use should be lower, in line with international guidelines; (ii) studies have shown that secukinumab has several advantages over other biologics which are greater efficacy, sustained efficacy over time, rapid onset of action, and early evidence of possible disease-modifying potential; and (iii) ideal candidates for secukinumab are all patients of moderate to severe psoriasis, including those with history of treatment failure, difficult-to-treat patterns of psoriasis (nail, scalp, and palmoplantar psoriasis), psoriatic arthritis, and comorbidities and those aiming for clear skin. Panel members recommend that secukinumab be considered first line option among biologic therapies.
Model Predictive Voltage Control with Optimal Duty Cycle for Three-Phase Grid-Connected Inverter
Authors: Ebrahimpanah Shahrouz , Chen Qihong , Zhang Liyan , Adam Misbawu
Published: May 2019

This paper proposes a model predictive voltage control (MPVC) strategy with duty cycle control for grid-connected three-phase inverters with output LCL filter. The model of the system is used to predict the capacitor filter voltage according to the future output current for each possible switching state at each sampling period. Then the cost function for each prediction is determined and the switching state is selected. In the proposed method, two voltage vectors are applied during one sampling interval to achieve better steady-state performance. Finally, the optimal duration of the nonzero voltage vector is defined based on the duty cycle optimization, which is vital to the control system. The proposed strategy offers a better reference tracking error with less THD in linear and nonlinear load situations. The effectiveness of the proposed method has been verified by MATLAB/Simulink and experimental results exhibit a better steady-state performance with less sampling frequency.
Immunomodulatory Effect after Irreversible Electroporation in Patients with Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: He Chaobin , Wang Jun , Sun Shuxin , Zhang Yu , Li Shengping
Published: May 2019

Purpose. Irreversible electroporation (IRE) has been demonstrated to be a safe and effective method for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunomodulatory effect after IRE and to evaluate the prognostic value of variations of the immune parameters in LAPC patients after IRE. Methods. Peripheral blood samples of 34 patients were obtained preoperatively and on the third day (D3) and seventh day (D7) after IRE, respectively. The phenotypes of lymphocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry, and dynamic changes of serum levels of cytokines, complement, and immunoglobulin were assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and concordance index (C-index) were used to compare the survival predictive ability. Results. There was a transitory decrease followed by a steady increase for CD4+ T cell, CD8+ T cell, NK cell, IL-2, C3, C4, and IgG while a reverse trend was detected for Treg cell, IL-6, and IL10 after IRE. The alteration of CD8+ T cell between D3 and D7 was identified as a prognostic factor for both overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). The values of ROC curve (AUC) and C-indexes of the alteration of CD8+ T cell for OS and PFS were 0.816 and 0.773 and 0.816 and 0.639, respectively, which were larger than those of other immune or inflammation-based indexes. Conclusions. This study presented the first evidence of IRE-based immunomodulatory in patients with LAPC. The alteration of CD8+ T cell between D3 and D7 showed relatively good performance and could be used as an effective tool for prognostic evaluation for LAPC patients after IRE.
Advances in Chemical Synthesis of Fondaparinux
Authors: Ding Yili , Vara Prasad Chamakura V. N. S. , Wang Bingyun
Published: May 2019

Fondaparinux (trade name Arixtra) is a safe and efficacious anticoagulant, and it is chemically related to low-molecular-weight heparins such as enoxaparin. Fondaparinux is a synthetic pentasaccharide, and its synthesis is difficult and expensive. The high cost of fondaparinux thwarts its extensive worldwide usage. Over the last two decades, several research groups and pharmaceutical companies have been interested in finding efficient and practical methods for its synthesis. The present review discusses those strategies and their pros and cons in a comparative account.
Anti-inflammatory Property of Galectin-1 in a Murine Model of Allergic Airway Inflammation
Authors: Lv Yunxiang , Dai Mengyuan , Wang Muzi , Chen Fangfang , Liu Rongyu
Published: May 2019

Galectin-1 (Gal-1) has immunomodulatory activities in various allergic inflammatory disorders, but its potential anti-inflammatory properties on allergic airway diseases have not been confirmed. We explored the pharmacological effects of Gal-1 on the progression of allergic airway inflammation and investigated the underlying mechanism. Female C57BL/6 mice were sensitized on day 0 and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA) on days 14-17 to establish an allergic airway inflammation model. In the challenge phase, a subset of mice was treated intraperitoneally with recombinant Gal-1 (rGal-1) or dexamethasone (Dex). We found that rGal-1 inhibited pulmonary inflammatory cell recruitment, mucus secretion, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) inflammatory cell infiltration, and cytokine production. The treatment also suppressed the infiltration of eosinophils into the allergic lung as indicated by decreased expression levels of eotaxin and eosinophil peroxidase (EPX). However, only the expression levels of IL-25, neither IL-33 nor TSLP, were significantly decreased in the lung by rGal-1 treatment. These immunomodulatory effects in the allergic lung were correlated with the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway and downregulation of endogenous Gal-1. In addition, rGal-1 reduced the plasma concentrations of anti-OVA immunoglobulin E (IgE) and IL-17. Our findings suggest that rGal-1 is an effective therapy for allergic airway inflammation in a murine model and may be a potential pharmacological target for allergic airway inflammatory diseases.
Identifying the Transcriptome Signatures of Calcium Channel Blockers in Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell–Derived Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Lam Chi Keung , Tian Lei , Belbachir Nadjet , Wnorowski Alexa , Shrestha Rajani , Ma Ning , Kitani Tomoya , Rhee June-Wha , Wu Joseph C.
Published: May 2019

Rationale:

Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are an important class of drugs in managing cardiovascular diseases. Patients usually rely on these medications for the remainder of their lives after diagnosis. Although the acute pharmacological actions of CCBs in the hearts are well-defined, little is known about the drug-specific effects on human cardiomyocyte transcriptomes and physiological alterations after long-term exposure.

Objective:

This study aimed to simulate chronic CCB treatment and to examine both the functional and transcriptomic changes in human cardiomyocytes.

Methods and Results:

We differentiated cardiomyocytes and generated engineered heart tissues from 3 human induced pluripotent stem cell lines and exposed them to 4 different CCBs—nifedipine, amlodipine, diltiazem, and verapamil—at their physiological serum concentrations for 2 weeks. Without inducing cell death and damage to myofilament structure, CCBs elicited line-specific inhibition on calcium kinetics and contractility. While all 4 CCBs exerted similar inhibition on calcium kinetics, verapamil applied the strongest inhibition on cardiomyocyte contractile function. By profiling cardiomyocyte transcriptome after CCB treatment, we identified little overlap in their transcriptome signatures. Verapamil is the only inhibitor that reduced the expression of contraction-related genes, such as MYH (myosin heavy chain) and troponin I, consistent with its depressive effects on contractile function. The reduction of these contraction-related genes may also explain the responsiveness of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy to verapamil in managing left ventricular outflow tract obstruction.

Conclusions:

This is the first study to identify the transcriptome signatures of different CCBs in human cardiomyocytes. The distinct gene expression patterns suggest that although the 4 inhibitors act on the same target, they may have distinct effects on normal cardiac cell physiology.
Blurred Lines
Authors: Clark Nathan Edward
Published: May 2019

This article examines the dynamics of an emerging multi-use paradigm for satellite remote sensing (RS). From the beginning of the space age, RS satellites have served as dual-use technologies. The advancements to RS technology since that time have largely been driven by the security and economic interests of States. While these interests are to some extent mutually supporting, they have also created a complex environment where non-governmental actors such as commercial satellite operators are increasingly involved in matters of national security and defence. Furthermore, the growing number of RS data providers globally, and more open and easily accessible data and analysis tools online, are creating a new use paradigm for RS in civil-military relations. These developments are extending the dual-use technology dilemma to one of multi-use, where non-governmental actors, including ordinary individuals, are becoming entangled in government affairs. This article traces the trajectory of these processes, and discusses potential implications for RS capable States.
Phytopythium nanjingense sp. nov. (Pythiaceae, Peronosporales) from southern China based on morphological and molecular characters
Authors: CHEN JIA-JIA , FENG HUI , WANG YUAN-CHAO , ZHENG XIAO-BO
Published: May 2019

A new species of Peronosporales: Phytopythium nanjingense, isolated from the lake water of Nanjing in Jiangsu Province of China is described and illustrated based on morphological characters and supported by molecular phylogenetic analyses using ITS rDNA and Cox1 and Cox2 mtDNA sequences. Phytopythium nanjingense is heterothallic and characterized by aquatic habitat, ellipsoid, mostly obpyriform to ovoid-obpyriform, internally or internally nested proliferating sporangia with conspicuous apical papillae, smooth oogonia, hypogynous antheridia, filamentous antheridial cells, and plerotic or nearly plerotic and thin-walled oospores (0.5–1.6 µm). Differences between the new species and phylogenetically related and morphologically similar species are discussed.