bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Higher Integrability of Commutators of Calderón-Zygmund Singular Integral Operators on Differential Forms
Authors: Niu Jinling , Xing Yuming
Published: November 2018

In this article, the higher integrability of commutators of Calderón-Zygmund singular integral operators on differential forms is derived. Also, the higher order Poincaré-type inequalities for the commutators acting on the solutions of Dirac-harmonic equations are obtained. Finally, some applications of the main results are demonstrated by examples.
RNA Sequencing for Gene Expression Profiles in a Rat Model of Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion
Authors: Duan Xianchun , Gan Jianghua , Xu Fan , Li Lili , Han Lan , Peng Can , Bao Qiuyu , Xiao Ling , Peng Daiyin
Published: November 2018

Gene expression regulatory mechanisms in models of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) have been assessed in some studies, but questions remain. The discovery of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between MCAO and control rats analyzed by next-generation RNA sequencing is of particular interest. These DEGs may help guide the clinical diagnosis of stroke and facilitate selection of the optimal treatment strategy. Twenty rats were equally divided into control and MCAO groups. Three rats from each group were randomly selected for RNA sequencing analysis. Sequence reads were obtained from an Illumina HiSeq2500 platform and mapped onto the rat reference genome RN6 using Hisat2. We identified 1,007 significantly DEGs with p<0.05, including 785 upregulated (fold change [FC]>2) and 222 downregulated (FC<0.5) DEGs, in brain tissue from MCAO rats compared with that from control rats, and numerous immune response genes were identified. Gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed that the majority of the most enriched and meaningful biological process terms were mainly involved in immune response, inflammatory response, cell activation, leukocyte migration, cell adhesion, response to external stimulus, cell migration, and response to wounding. Also enriched were immune-related pathways and neural-related pathways. Similar to GO molecular function terms, the enriched terms were mainly related to cytokine receptor activity. Six DEGs were verified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Protein-protein interaction analysis of these hits revealed that MCAO affects complement and coagulation cascades and chemokine signaling pathway. Our study identified novel biomarkers that could help further elucidate MCAO mechanisms and processes.
Diagnostic Utility of Serum Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin in Polytraumatized Patients Suffering Acute Kidney Injury: A Prospective Study
Authors: Negrin Lukas Leopold , Hahn Reinhard , Heinz Thomas , Hajdu Stefan
Published: November 2018

Introduction. The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) considerably increases the mortality rate in polytrauma victims. Undoubtedly, early identification of patients at risk is crucial for timely implementation of preventive strategies in order to improve their prognosis. Therefore, we aimed to investigate if serum neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (sNGAL) may serve as a diagnostic biomarker of early AKI in polytrauma victims, especially considering patients needing renal replacement theory (RRT).Material and Methods. Forty consecutive polytrauma victims (ISS ≥ 16,AISThorax≥ 1, age ≥ 18 years, survival time ≥ 48 hours), directly admitted to our level I trauma center within one posttraumatic hour, were enrolled in our prospective study. sNGAL-levels were assessed at admission (initial) and on day 2 after trauma. AKI was diagnosed by an increase of serum creatinine (sCr) level of at least 0.3 mg/dl within 48 hours.Results. Out of 30 men and 10 women (mean age, 43 years; mean ISS, 29), seven patients developed AKI, four of them needing RRT. AKI was diagnosed in 86% of the affected individuals until day 2. Day2-sNGAL-levels were higher in the AKI-group, compared to the no-AKI-group (p=0.049), and in patients treated with RRT than in individuals not needing RRT (p=0.037). Noteworthy, in patients not needing RRT sNGAL-levels significantly decreased from initial to day2-measurement (p=0.040). Furthermore, at any time point during our observation period polytraumatized patients with AKI and day2-sNGAL-levels of at least 181.0 ng/mL presented with higher sCr-levels compared to polytraumatized patients without AKI and day2-sNGAL-levels lower than 181.0 ng/mL (p≤0.029).Conclusion. In polytrauma victims suffering AKI an increase in sNGAL-level from initial to day2-assessment may signalize deterioration in kidney function and thus indicate AKI progression. Unlike initial sNGAL-levels day2-sNGAL-levels might be an appropriate tool to define AKI and to signify the need of RRT in polytraumatized patients.
An Improved LambdaMART Algorithm Based on the Matthew Effect
Authors: Li Jinzhong , Liu Guanjun
Published: November 2018

Matthew effect is a desirable phenomenon for a ranking model in search engines and recommendation systems. However, most of algorithms of learning to rank (LTR) do not pay attention to Matthew effect. LambdaMART is a well-known LTR algorithm that can be further optimized based on Matthew effect. Inspired by Matthew effect, we distinguish queries with different effectiveness and then assign a higher weight to a query with higher effectiveness. We improve the gradient in the LambdaMART algorithm to optimize the queries with high effectiveness, that is, to highlight the Matthew effect of the produced ranking models. In addition, we propose strategies of evaluating a ranking model and dynamically decreasing the learning rate to both strengthen the Matthew effect of ranking models and improve the effectiveness of ranking models. We use Gini coefficient, mean-variance, quantity statistics, and winning number to measure the performances of the ranking models. Experimental results on multiple benchmark datasets show that the ranking models produced by our improved LambdaMART algorithm can exhibit a stronger Matthew effect and achieve higher effectiveness compared to the original one and other state-of-the-art LTR algorithms.
Internal Limiting Membrane Flaps for Coexistent Macular Hole and Retinal Detachment in Eyes with Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Chen San-Ni , Yang Chung-May
Published: November 2018

Purpose. To evaluate logical surgical approaches to closing macular holes in eyes with proliferative diabetic retinopathy with retinal detachment. Methods. Retrospective, interventional case series. Results. 10 eyes in 10 patients were included in this study. The inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap technique was used in 2 eyes, while inverted ILM insertion was used in 5 eyes, and free ILM flaps in 3 eyes. Closed macular holes and retinal reattachment were observed in all eyes. Best corrected visual acuity improved from 1.33 ± 0.39 preoperatively to 1.02 ± 0.36 postoperatively (p=0.03). Conclusion. Various surgical approaches utilized in managing macular holes may effectively close macular holes and reattach retinas. This trial is registered with NCT 03618498.
An Unusual Position of Retromandibular Vein in Relation to Facial Nerve: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Lageju Nabin , Thakur Prabhat Chandra , Jaiswal Pravin Kumar
Published: November 2018

Knowledge of different anatomical structures is very important in parotid surgery to preserve facial nerve. Retromandibular vein is one of the landmarks used to identify facial nerve. So, the relation of the vein with facial nerve is very important in parotid surgery. The typical position of RMV is deep to facial nerve in almost 88% of cases reported in various literatures. Here, we present an unusual position of RMV found during parotid surgery for pleomorphic adenoma.
Damping Characteristics of Metal Rubber in the Pipeline Coating System
Authors: Xiao Kun , Bai Hongbai , Xue Xin , Wu Yiwan
Published: November 2018

The reduction of vibration in submarine pipeline systems at high temperatures has always been a difficult problem. This paper aims to reduce the vibration of pipeline systems by using coated metal rubber. A theoretical model of the cladding damping structure, formed on the basis of the bilinear hysteresis model, is established. The mechanical model of the single degree of freedom hysteretic system is linearly equivalent to using the linearization method. The theoretical analysis indicates that the regularity of the stiffness of metal rubber decreases, and the damping increases, with the increase of the excitation amplitude. Experimental verification confirmed this analysis after an experimental system for pipelines coated by metal rubber was developed. A method for preparing the thin sheet of metal rubber, which is the damping layer, was introduced. At the same time, the force transfer rate and the structural loss factor were proposed to characterize the damping performance of the cladding damping structure. The vibration absorption characteristics of the cladding damping structure, along with its forming density, number of coating layers, and excitation magnitude, are investigated by means of the experimental method. The results indicate that the damping performance of metal rubber decreases with the increase of forming density, and the damping performance of metal rubber increases with the increase of the number of cladding layers and the magnitude of excited vibration.
A Rare Scrotal Tumor: Epididymal Cavernous Hemangioma
Authors: Karray Omar , Ben Chehida Mohamed Ali , Sellami Ahmed , Mrad Daly Kheireddine , Mahjoubi Zied , Zehani Alia , Ben Rhouma Sami , Nouira Yassine
Published: November 2018

Introduction. Paratesticular tumors are rarely observed among scrotal neoplasm. Various types of benign lesions are described. Cavernous hemangioma belongs to uncommon epididymal benign tumors. Clinical and sonographic features are not conclusive and diagnosis requires histological confirmation. Case Presentation. Authors report a case of an epididymal hemangioma in a 56-year-old patient, consulting for a painful scrotal swelling. As malignancy was suspected, he underwent inguinal orchiectomy. Histological examination confirmed the diagnosis of cavernous epididymal hemangioma. Clinical and therapeutic aspects of this rare entity are discussed. Conclusion. Epididymis is an infrequent location of cavernous hemangioma. Diagnosis is rarely made preoperatively as symptoms and radiological aspects are not specific. Conservative surgery must be attempted once feasible for aesthetic and functional purposes.
Pericardial Effusion due to Infliximab Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Mirza Muhammad , Mirza Maira , Murugesan Vagishwari , Olano Arrel
Published: November 2018

Ulcerative colitis is characterized by ulcers and inflammation of the inner lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Antitumor necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNF alpha) agents such as infliximab are drugs that have been used for the treatment of ulcerative colitis for decades. Infliximab is known to be associated with various adverse effects including anti-TNF alpha induced lupus (ATIL). We present a rare case of a 51-year-old female with pericardial effusion secondary to infliximab therapy for treatment of her ulcerative colitis. Discontinuation of infliximab led to resolution of the pericardial effusion.
Clinical Anatomy for the Innervated Pattern and Boundary of the Subdeltoid Bursa
Authors: Seo Chang Min , Kim Kyungyong , Jeon Anna , Uhm Chang Sub , Lee Je-Hun , Han Seung-Ho
Published: November 2018

The aim of this study was to accurately identify the distribution of sensory nerve branches running to bursa with mesoscopic dissection and boundaries following the injection of gelatin into the bursa. Eighteen shoulders of 11 Korean soft cadavers (average age, 65 years; age range, 43 - 88 years) were dissected. The most prominent point of greater tubercle of the humerus (GT) was used as a reference point. The horizontal line passing through GT was used as the x-axis while the vertical line passing through the GT was used as the y-axis. Average distances of the anterior, posterior, superior, and inferior from the GT were 1.9±0.6, 2.4±1.3, 2.1±0.7, and 3.2±1.5 cm, respectively. In 15 cases of 18 shoulders, the anterior branch of the axillary nerve was distributed to the subdeltoid bursa that was running posteriorly. The muscular branch of the anterior and middle parts of the deltoid was distributed to the branch of nerve that was running into the subdeltoid bursa. A branch of the posterior cord of brachial plexus was distributed to the subdeltoid bursa that was running anteriorly in three cases. Most of the branches of the axillary nerve were distributed into the posterolateral area. The branches of the posterior cord of brachial plexus were distributed in the anterolateral area. These results might be useful for preventing residual pain on the anterior shoulder region following an injection for the relief of shoulder pain.
The Potential Roles of Extracellular Vesicles in Cigarette Smoke‐Associated Diseases
Authors: Ryu A-Reum , Kim Do Hyun , Kim Eunjoo , Lee Mi Young
Published: November 2018

Cigarette smoke contains more than 4,500 chemicals; most of which are highly reactive free radicals, which induce proinflammatory and carcinogenic reactions. Numerous efforts have focused extensively on the role of cigarette smoking as a cause of many diseases. Extracellular vesicles and exosomes have recently received increasing interest for their diagnostic and therapeutic roles in many diseases. However, research done on the role of extracellular vesicles and exosomes on cigarette smoke‐induced chronic disease is still in its infancy. In this review, we summarize the recently addressed roles of extracellular vesicles and exosomes in the pathogenesis of cigarette smoke‐related diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, and oral cancer. Moreover, their potential utilization and future prospects as diagnostic biomarkers for cigarette smoke‐related diseases are described.
“First in Man”: Case Report of Selective C-Reactive Protein Apheresis in a Patient with Acute ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Ries Wolfgang , Sheriff Ahmed , Heigl Franz , Zimmermann Oliver , Garlichs Christoph D. , Torzewski Jan
Published: November 2018

C-reactive protein (CRP) may be causative in cardiovascular disease. As yet, no specific CRP inhibitor for human application has been described. A 69-year-old male was referred with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Typical symptoms of chest pain started at 10.00 p.m. The patient was admitted to the hospital at 1.30 a.m. the next day. As ECG showed anterior wall myocardial infarction, the patient was immediately transferred to successful emergency angioplasty/drug-eluting- (DE-) stenting of the subtotally occluded left anterior descending artery. Consecutively, the hemodynamically stable patient was monitored at the chest pain unit. C-reactive protein (CRP) apheresis using the CRP adsorber (PentraSorb® CRP) within CAMI-1 trial was performed 34 h and 58 h after the onset of symptoms. In each apheresis session, 6000 ml plasma was treated via peripheral venous access. Plasma CRP levels decreased from 28.77 mg/l to 12.58 mg/l during the first apheresis session and from 24.17 mg/l to 11.55 mg/l during the second session, respectively. No side effects were observed. This is the first report of selective CRP apheresis in a man. The technology offers multiple opportunities to clarify the immunological/pathogenic role of CRP in health and disease.
Development of a Conventional RT-PCR Assay for Rapid Detection of Porcine Deltacoronavirus with the Same Detection Limit as a SYBR Green-Based Real-Time RT-PCR Assay
Authors: Ma Lei , Zeng Fanwen , Huang Bihong , Cong Feng , Huang Ren , Ma Jingyun , Guo Pengju
Published: November 2018

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is a newly discovered coronavirus, which belongs to the family Coronaviridae. It causes watery diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration in newborn piglets. A sensitive RT-PCR method is urgently required to detect PDCoV infection. In this study, we developed and evaluated a conventional RT-PCR assay and a SYBR green-based real-time RT-PCR assay that targeted the PDCoV n gene. Both assays are specific and have the same limit of detection at 2 × 101 copies of RNA molecules per reaction. Eighty-four clinical samples were subjected to both conventional RT-PCR and real-time RT-PCR, and the same positive rate (41.7%) was achieved, which was much higher than the positive rate (26.2%) using a previously described one-step RT-PCR technique. In summary, a conventional RT-PCR technique was successfully established for the detection of PDCoV with the same detection limit as a SYBR green-based real-time RT-PCR assay.
Comparison of Landmark- and Outline-Based Geometric Morphometrics for Discriminating Mosquito Vectors in Ratchaburi Province, Thailand
Authors: Chaiphongpachara Tanawat
Published: November 2018

It is often challenging to identify mosquito vectors in the field based on morphological features due to their similar morphologies and difficulties in obtaining undamaged samples but is required for their successful control. Geometric morphometrics (GM) overcomes this issue by analyzing a suite of traits simultaneously and has the added advantages of being easy to use, low cost, and quick. Therefore, this research compared the efficiency and precision of landmark- and outline-based GM techniques for separating species of mosquitoes in Huay Nam Nak village, Ratchaburi Province, Thailand. This research collected 273 individuals belonging to seven species: Anopheles barbirostris, An. subpictus, Culex quinquefasciatus, Cx. vishnui, Cx. whitmorei, Aedes aegypti, and Ae. albopictus. Both landmark-based and outline-based GM techniques could identify malaria vectors in this area to the genus level successfully and were also very effective for identifying the malaria vectors Anopheles spp. and the dengue vectors Aedes spp. to the species level. However, they were less effective for distinguishing between species of Culex. Therefore, GM represents a valuable tool for the identification of mosquito vectors in the field, which will facilitate their successful control.
Scaling Properties of Multiplicity Fluctuations in the AMPT Model
Authors: Sharma Rohni , Gupta Ramni
Published: November 2018

From the events generated from the MC code of a multiphase transport (AMPT) model with string melting, the properties of multiplicity fluctuations of charged particles in Pb–Pb collisions at sNN = 2.76 TeV are studied. Normalized factorial moments, Fq, of spatial distributions of the particles have been determined in the framework of intermittency. Those moments are found in some kinematic regions to exhibit scaling behavior at small bin sizes, but not in most regions. However, in relating Fq to F2 scaling behavior is found in nearly all regions. The corresponding scaling exponents, ν, determined in the low transverse momentum (pT) region ≤ 1.0 GeV/c are observed to be independent of the pT bin position and width. The value of ν is found to be larger than 1.304, which is the value that characterizes the Ginzburg-Landau type second-order phase transition. Thus there is no known signature for phase transition in the AMPT model. This study demonstrates that, for the system under investigation, the method of analysis is effective in extracting features that are relevant to the question of whether the dynamical processes leading phase transition are there or not.
Rare Coexistence of Acute Monoblastic Leukemia with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Bhar Vikrant Singh , Gupta Vasudha , Sharma Mahak , Dhawan Rishi , Modi Shilpi , Vijyaran Mona
Published: November 2018

Acute monoblastic leukemia (AMoL) is a rare hematopoietic neoplasm, and simultaneous occurrence of acute monoblastic leukemia with chronic lymphocytic leukemia is very rare and only a few cases have been reported in the literature. We here report a rare case of dual hematological malignancy in an 85-year-old male. The peripheral blood and bone marrow examination revealed dual population of atypical cells, comprising large cells with opened-up chromatin having monocytic appearance and small mature-appearing lymphocytes. Flowcytometric immunophenotyping confirmed the monocytic lineage of cells, whereas small lymphocytes showed the immunophenotype consistent with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The final diagnosis was made as acute monoblastic leukemia with associated CLL. This is a rare case scenario, and this highlights the importance of careful morphological examination and flowcytometric immunophenotyping in the exact characterization of hematopoietic malignancies.
Systemic Congestion Propagation in the Airspace Network
Authors: Tian Wen , Dai Xiaoxu , Hu Minghua
Published: November 2018

To be different from the traditional concept of congestion, congestion propagation based on the correlation between aircraft is given. And the main resource shared and competed for in airspace is the air route network, especially the intersection linking the multiroute. The system composed of congestion propagation units operates in airspace network, which is limited by the network geometry and the correlation between aircraft. This paper presents models based on the congestion and propagation characteristics in complex network, predicting the trend of congestion propagation and the peak of congestion size. By analyzing the relationships between system parameters and congestion propagation and accounting for the effects of propagation across networks, this paper enhances the current dynamics models of congestion propagation in airspace. Firstly, a heterogeneous network model is introduced to reveal the propagation process of aircraft with different degrees of correlation. This is followed by the specification of two simplified models for short-term prediction, just taking the sector capacity, propagation rate, and dissipation rate into account. And the propagation rate and dissipation rate depend on the sector geometry and aircraft distribution. Using them (sector capacity, propagation rate, and dissipation rate), the prediction models are accurate in predicting the evolution of congestion peak and propagation trend in comparison with the sample data of intersections in the sector. Of them, the model with capacity limitation is more accurate on busy hour. And on non-busy hour, capacity is insensitive in predicting congestion clusters. Furthermore, the computing method of propagation rate and dissipation rate is given in our paper. Finally, a numerical analysis is performed, in which it is demonstrated that system capacity, propagation rate, and dissipation rate have different effects on congestion propagation in airspace. The results show that low propagation and high dissipation rates not only are nonlinear but also decrease the level of congestion in the propagation of congestion. In particular, of the three parameters, system capacity affects the rate of convergence, with a low-capacity system reaching a stable state quickly and therefore providing a basis for sector partitioning. The method proposed in this paper should enable air traffic controllers to better understand the characteristics of congestion and its propagation for the benefits of both congestion management and improvement of efficiency. Significantly, airspace designers can take congestion propagation into consideration for optimizing the airspace structure in the future.
Coinfections between Persistent Parasitic Neglected Tropical Diseases and Viral Infections among Prisoners from Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America
Authors: Da Silva Santos Lilian , Wolff Hans , Chappuis François , Albajar-Viñas Pedro , Vitoria Marco , Tran Nguyen-Toan , Baggio Stéphanie , Togni Giuseppe , Vuilleumier Nicolas , Girardin François , Negro Francesco , Gétaz Laurent
Published: November 2018

In Swiss prisons, more than 70% of detained people are foreigners and over one-third originate from sub-Saharan Africa or Latin America. These two regions are endemic for various tropical diseases and viral infections, which persist after migration to nonendemic countries. Parasitic infections (schistosomiasis; strongyloidiasis) and cooccurrent viral infections (HIV, hepatitis B (HBV), and hepatitis C (HCV)) are especially of concern for clinical care but have been neglected in empirical research. These diseases often remain silent for years before causing complications, especially if they occur concomitantly. Our research aimed to study the prevalence rates and coinfections of two neglected tropical diseases, namely, Strongyloides stercoralis and Schistosoma sp. and viral infections among sub-Saharan Africans (SSA) and Latin Americans (LA) in Switzerland’s largest pretrial prison. We carried out a cross-sectional prevalence study using a standardized questionnaire and serological testing. Among the 201 participants, 85.6% were SSA and 14.4% LA. We found the following prevalence ratios: 3.5% of HIV (4.1% in SSA, 0% in LA), 12.4% of chronic HBV (14.5% in SSA, 0% in LA), 2.0% of viraemic HCV (1.7% in SSA, 3.4% in LA), and 8.0% of strongyloidiasis (8.1% in SSA, 6.9% in LA). The serological prevalence of schistosomiasis among SSA was 20.3% (not endemic in Latin America). Two infections were simultaneously detected in SSA: 4.7% were coinfected with schistosomiasis and chronic HBV. Four other coinfections were detected among SSA: schistosomiasis-HIV, HIV-chronic HBV, HIV-HCV, and schistosomiasis-strongyloidiasis. To conclude, the high prevalence rates of persistent viral and parasitic infections and their potential coinfections among SSA and LA detained migrants highlight the need to implement control strategies and programs that reach people in detention centers in nonendemic countries.
Modeling and Stochastic Model Updating of Bolt‐Jointed Structure
Authors: Zhan Ming , Guo Qintao , Yue Lin , Zhang Baoqiang
Published: November 2018

Bolt‐jointed structure is widely used in engineering fields. The dynamic characteristics of bolt‐jointed structure are complex, and there is a variety of uncertainties in the jointed structure. In this study, modeling and updating of a typical bolt‐jointed structure are investigated. In modeling terms, three‐dimensional brick elements are used to represent the substructures, and thin‐layer elements with virtual material properties are employed to represent the joint interface. Modal tests and experimental modal analysis of substructures and built‐up structure are performed. A hierarchical model updating strategy based on Bayesian inference is applied to identify the unknown parameters in the substructures model and those in the overall model. Radial basis function (RBF) models are used as surrogates of time‐consuming finite element model with high resolution to avoid the enormous computational cost. The results indicate that the updated model can reproduce modal frequencies used in updating and can predict those not used in the updating procedure.
Optimal Design Method of a Hybrid CSP-PV Plant Based on Genetic Algorithm Considering the Operation Strategy
Authors: Zhai Rongrong , Chen Ying , Liu Hongtao , Wu Hao , Yang Yongping
Published: November 2018

Solar energy is the most abundant renewable energy and it has a great potential for development. There are two ways to transfer solar energy to electricity: photovoltaic power generation (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP). CSP-PV hybrid system can be fully integrated with the advantages of the two systems to achieve low cost, stable output, and manageable to generate electricity. In this paper, the operation strategy of the CSP-PV system is proposed for parabolic trough CSP system and PV system which are now commercially operated. Genetic algorithm is used to optimize the design of the system and calculate PV-installed capacity, battery capacity, and storage capacity of CSP system, making the system to achieve the lowest cost of electricity generation. The results show that the introduction of the CSP system makes it possible to ensure the stability of the output power of hybrid system when the battery capacity is small, which greatly improves the annual utilization time of the PV and reduces solar abandonment. When the system is optimized by operation characteristics of Spring Equinox, the lowest LCOE is 0.0627 $/kWh, the rated capacity of PV and CSP system are 222.462 MW and 30 MW, respectively, and the capacity of heat storage and battery are 356.562 MWh and 14.687 MWh. When the system is optimized by the operation characteristics of the whole year, the lowest LCOE is 0.0555 $/kWh, the rated capacity of PV and CSP system are 242.954 MW and 30 MW, respectively, and the capacity of heat storage and battery are 136.059 MWh and 8.977 MWh. The comparison shows that the power generation curves of the hybrid system are similar in the two optimization-based methods—Spring Equinox based and annual based, but LCOE is lower when optimized by the annual operation characteristic, and the annual utilization rate of the system is higher when optimized by Spring Equinox based.
Sipjeondaebo-tang Alleviates Oxidative Stress‐Mediated Liver Injury through Activation of the CaMKK2‐AMPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Park Sang Mi , Kim Sung Woo , Jung Eun Hye , Ko Hae Li , Im Chae Kwang , Lee Jong Rok , Byun Sung Hui , Ku Sae Kwang , Kim Sang Chan , Park Chung A , Kim Kwang Joong , Cho Il Je
Published: November 2018

Sipjeondaebo-tang (SDT) is used frequently as a herbal prescription to treat deficiency syndromes in traditional Korean medicine. We investigated the hepatoprotective effects of SDT against oxidative stress and attempted to clarify the underlying molecular mechanisms. SDT pretreatment reduced arachidonic acid (AA) plus iron‐mediated cytotoxicity in a concentration‐dependent manner and prevented changes in apoptosis‐related protein expression. In addition, SDT pretreatment significantly reduced glutathione depletion, hydrogen peroxide production, and mitochondrial dysfunction via treatment with AA plus iron. SDT increased the phosphorylation of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) in accordance with the phosphorylation of Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase kinase 2 (CaMKK2). Experiments using an AMPK chemical inhibitor (Compound C) or CaMKK2 chemical inhibitor (STO‐609) suggested that the CaMKK2‐AMPK signaling pathway contributes to SDT‐mediated protection of mitochondria and cells. Moreover, administration of SDT for 4 consecutive days to mice significantly reduced the alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities induced by carbon tetrachloride, and the numbers of degenerated hepatocytes, infiltrated inflammatory cells, nitrotyrosine‐positive cells, and 4‐hydroxynonenal‐positive cells in liver tissue. Therefore, SDT protects hepatocytes from oxidative stress via CaMKK2‐dependent AMPK activation and has the therapeutic potential to prevent or treat oxidative stress‐related liver injury.
Airworthiness Support Measures Analogy to the Prospective Roundabouts Alternatives: Theoretical Aspects
Authors: Goncharenko Andriy Viktorovich
Published: November 2018

The goal of this paper is to investigate theoretically the possible directions of some specified methods for the alternative roundabouts effectiveness modeling and optimization. The out-coming criteria have an economical interpretation. Those are the objective functionals of the alternative roundabouts effectiveness as the profit gained in the course of the traffic flow changes in the view of the integral form. This is modeled taking into consideration the transport infrastructure functioning elements such as the traffic flow of a capacity model. It takes into account two major components of the transportation services which are the alternative roundabouts business’ incomes and expenses relating to the roundabouts transportation worthiness support. The prototypic approach is that one from the aircraft airworthiness support measures models. Corresponding managerial influences with respect to environmental, safety, utility, and other issues, as well as probable impacts, are modeled with the construction of the relevant under-integral expressions, equations, and appropriate coefficients and parameters of the mathematical models. The achieved theoretical results, on the basis of the Euler-Lagrange equation and accepted assumptions, have been checked for the sufficiency of the objective functional maximum presence at the “point” with the use of the conducted computer simulation. The necessary diagrams are plotted in order to illustrate the theoretical contemplations and speculations, as well as to check the correctness of the applied mathematical derivations and visualize the models’ preciseness and abilities. The theoretically constructed mathematical models have a significance of the prognostic values applicability required at the alternative roundabouts effectiveness modeling and optimization ensuring their design progress and evolutions.
Input-Output Transformation Using the Feedback of Nonlinear Electrical Circuits: Algorithms and Linearization Examples
Authors: Różowicz Sebastian , Zawadzki Andrzej
Published: November 2018

This paper addresses the problem of nonlinear electrical circuit input-output linearization. The transformation algorithms for linearization of nonlinear system through changing coordinates (local diffeomorphism) with the use of closed feedback loop together with the conditions necessary for linearization are presented. The linearization stages and the results of numerical simulations are discussed.
Effects of Icariin on Atherosclerosis and Predicted Function Regulatory Network in ApoE Deficient Mice
Authors: Zhang Yibing , Ma Xiaoyan , Li Xiangjun , Zhang Tong , Qin Meng , Ren Liqun
Published: November 2018

Objective. Icariin plays a pivotal role in ameliorating atherosclerosis for animal models although its comprehensive biological role remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to fully understand the effects of icariin on atherosclerosis in high-fat diet-induced ApoE-/- mice and investigate mRNA-miRNA regulation based on microarray and bioinformatics analysis. Methods. The areas of atherosclerotic lesions in en face aorta were evaluated. Microarray analysis was performed on atherosclerotic aortic tissues. The integrative analysis of mRNA and miRNA profiling was utilized to suggest specific functions of gene and supply an integrated and corresponding method to study the protective effect of icariin on atherosclerosis. Results. Icariin attenuated the development of atherosclerosis that the mean atherosclerotic lesion area was reduced by 5.8% (P < 0.05). Significant changes were observed in mRNA and miRNA expression patterns. Several miRNAs obtained from the miRNA-Gene-Network might play paramount part in antiatherosclerotic effect of icariin, such as mmu-miR-6931-5p, mmu-miR-3547-5p, mmu-miR-5107-5p, mmu-miR-6368, and mmu-miR-7118-5p. Specific miRNAs and GO terms associated with icariin in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis were validated using GO analysis and miRNA-GO-Network. MiRNA-Pathway-Network indicated that icariin induced miRNAs mainly regulate the signaling pathways of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, Ras signaling pathway, ErbB signaling pathway, and VEGF signaling pathway in aorta atherosclerotic lesion. Conclusions. Our data provides evidence that icariin is able to exhibit one antiatherosclerotic action by mediating multiple biological processes or cascades, suggesting the pleiotropic effects of icariin in atherosclerosis alleviation. The identified gene functional categories and pathways are potentially valuable targets for future development of RNA-guided gene regulation to fight disease.
M2 Macrophage-Derived Exosomes Promote Cell Migration and Invasion in Colon Cancer
Authors: Lan Jingqin , Sun Li , Xu Feng , Liu Lu , Hu Fuqing , Song Da , Hou Zhenlin , Wu Wei , Luo Xuelai , Wang Jing , Yuan Xianglin , Hu Junbo , Wang Guihua
Published: November 2018

Clinical and experimental evidence has shown that tumor-associated macrophages promote cancer initiation and progression. However, the macrophage-derived molecular determinants that regulate colorectal cancer metastasis have not been fully characterized. Here, we demonstrate that M2 macrophage–regulated colorectal cancer cells' migration and invasion is dependent upon M2 macrophage–derived exosomes (MDE). MDE displayed a high expression level of miR-21-5p and miR-155-5p, and MDE-mediated colorectal cancer cells' migration and invasion depended on these two miRNAs. Mechanistically, miR-21-5p and miR-155-5p were transferred to colorectal cancer cells by MDE and bound to the BRG1 coding sequence, downregulating expression of BRG1, which has been identified as a key factor promoting the colorectal cancer metastasis, yet is downregulated in metastatic colorectal cancer cells. Collectively, these findings show that M2 macrophages induce colorectal cancer cells' migration and invasion and provide significant plasticity of BRG1 expression in response to tumor microenvironments during malignant progression. This dynamic and reciprocal cross-talk between colorectal cancer cells and M2 macrophages provides a new opportunity for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer.

Significance:

These findings report a functional role for miRNA-containing exosomes derived from M2 macrophages in regulating migration and invasion of colorectal cancer cells.
Circulating Tumor Cells with Stemness and Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Features Are Chemoresistant and Predictive of Poor Outcome in Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Papadaki Maria A. , Stoupis Giannis , Theodoropoulos Panayiotis A. , Mavroudis Dimitris , Georgoulias Vassilis , Agelaki Sofia
Published: November 2018

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) bearing phenotypes related to cancer stem cells (CSCs) and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) have been identified in breast cancer; however, their clinical significance is not clear. In the current study, we investigated the prognostic relevance of single CSC+/partial-EMT+ CTCs in patients with metastatic breast cancer and the effect of first-line chemotherapy on their incidence. For this purpose, triple immunofluorescence against cytokeratin, ALDH1, and TWIST1 was performed in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) cytospins from 130 patients before and after first-line chemotherapy. CSC+/partial-EMT+ CTCs were characterized as cells co-expressing cytokeratin, high levels of ALDH1, and nuclear TWIST1. CSC+/partial-EMT+ CTCs were evident in 27.7% of patients at baseline and were correlated to lung metastases (P = 0.010) and decreased progression-free survival [PFS; median 10.2 (8.9–11.6) vs. 13.5 (11.3–15.7) months; P = 0.024]. Their detection was an independent factor predicting for increased risk of relapse [multivariate analysis; HR (95% confidence interval (CI)): 1.785 (1.171–2.720); P = 0.007]. In HER-2–negative patients, CSC+/partial-EMT+ CTCs were additionally associated with reduced overall survival (OS) [median 39 (26.2–51.9) vs. 51 (15.7–86.4) months; P = 0.020] and increased risk of death [multivariate analysis; HR (95% CI): 2.228 (1.066–4.655); P = 0.033]. Chemotherapy resulted in a significant increase in the incidence of CSC+/partial-EMT+ CTCs (mean CTC% per patient: 59.4% post vs. 39.5% pre; P = 0.018), which was subsequently confirmed only in HER2-negative patients (P = 0.040) and in non-responders at the end of treatment (P = 0.020). In conclusion, CSC+/partial-EMT+ CTCs represent a chemoresistant subpopulation, which independently predicts for unfavorable outcome in metastatic breast cancer. Efficient targeting of these CTCs could potentially increase patient survival.
PARP1 Suppresses the Transcription of PD-L1 by Poly(ADP-Ribosyl)ating STAT3
Authors: Ding Ling , Chen Xi , Xu Xiaqing , Qian Yuli , Liang Guikai , Yao Fengqi , Yao Zhangting , Wu Honghai , Zhang Jieqiong , He Qiaojun , Yang Bo
Published: November 2018

Studies have pointed to a role of PARP1 in regulating gene expression through poly(ADP-ribosyl)ating, sequence-specific, DNA-binding transcription factors. However, few examples exist that link this role of PARP1 to the immunogenicity of cancer cells. Here, we report that PARP1 poly(ADP-ribosyl)ates STAT3 and subsequently promotes STAT3 dephosphorylation, resulting in reduced transcriptional activity of STAT3 and expression of PD-L1. In this study, we showed that PARP1 silencing or pharmacologic inhibition enhanced the transcription of PD-L1 in cancer cells, which was accompanied by the upregulation of PD-L1 protein expression, both in the cytoplasm and on the cell surface. This induction of PD-L1 was attenuated in the absence of the transcription factor STAT3. Cell-based studies indicated that PARP1 interacted directly with STAT3 and caused STAT3 poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation. STAT3′s activation of PD-L1 transcription was abolished by the overexpression of wild-type PARP1 but not mutant PARP1, which lacks catalytic activity. PARP1 downregulation or catalytic inhibition enhanced the phosphorylation of STAT3, which was reversed by the ectopic expression of wild-type PARP1 but not by mutated PARP1. An inverse correlation between PARP1 and PD-L1 was also observed in clinical ovarian cancer samples. Overall, our study revealed PARP1-mediated poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation of STAT3 as a key step in inhibiting the transcription of PD-L1, and this mechanism exists in a variety of cancer cells.
Calnexin Impairs the Antitumor Immunity of CD4+ and CD8+ T Cells
Authors: Chen Yichen , Ma Da , Wang Xi , Fang Juan , Liu Xiangqi , Song Jingjing , Li Xinye , Ren Xianyue , Li Qiusheng , Li Qunxing , Wen Shuqiong , Luo Liqun , Xia Juan , Cui Jun , Zeng Gucheng , Chen Lieping , Cheng Bin , Wang Zhi
Published: November 2018

Elucidation of the mechanisms of T-cell–mediated antitumor responses will provide information for the rational design and development of cancer immunotherapies. Here, we found that calnexin, an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperone protein, is significantly upregulated in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Upregulation of its membranous expression on OSCC cells is associated with inhibited T-cell infiltration in tumor tissues and correlates with poor survival of patients with OSCC. We found that calnexin inhibits the proliferation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells isolated from the whole blood of healthy donors and patients with OSCC and inhibits the secretion of IFNγ, TNFα, and IL2 from these cells. Furthermore, in a melanoma model, knockdown of calnexin enhanced the infiltration and effector functions of T cells in the tumor microenvironment and conferred better control of tumor growth, whereas treatment with a recombinant calnexin protein impaired the infiltration and effector functions of T cells and promoted tumor growth. We also found that calnexin enhanced the expression of PD-1 on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells by restraining the DNA methylation status of a CpG island in the PD-1 promoter. Thus, this work uncovers a mechanism by which T-cell antitumor responses are regulated by calnexin in tumor cells and suggests that calnexin might serve as a potential target for the improvement of antitumor immunotherapy.
Validation of a Nomogram Predicting Non-Sentinel Lymph Node Metastases among Patients with Breast Cancer after Primary Systemic Therapy - a transSENTINA Substudy
Authors: Liedtke Cornelia , Görlich Dennis , Bauerfeind Ingo , Fehm Tanja , Fleige Barbara , Helms Gisela , Lebeau Annette , Staebler Annette , Ataseven Beyhan , Denkert Carsten , Gerber Bernd , Heil Jörg , Krug David , Kümmel Sherko , Schwentner Lukas , von Minckwitz Gunter , Loibl Sibylle , Untch Michael , Kühn Thorsten
Published: November 2018

Background: Prediction of non-sentinel lymph node (SLN) status after primary systemic therapy (PST) may allow tailored axillary staging. The aim of this analysis was to compare established nomograms from i) the primary operative (n = 6) and ii) the neoadjuvant (n = 1) setting with an optimized nomogram to predict non-SLN status in patients after PST. Methods: 181 patients converting from cN1 prior to PST to ycN0 but found to have a histologically positive SLN in the SENTINA trial were analyzed. Established models were applied. An optimized model was compiled using univariate and subsequent multivariable logistic regression (backward selection, likelihood ratio test). Results: Area-under-the-curve (AUC) values from the primary operative models showed sufficient performance (0.82-0.71). For the neoadjuvant model, the AUC was found to be inferior to prior analyses (0.66) but within published confidence intervals. The SENTINA nomogram comprised the diameter of the largest lymph node (p = 0.006, odds ratio (OR) = 1.19), tumor size prior to PST (p = 0.085, OR = 1.31), and number of all positive SLN (p = 0.083, OR = 2.04). This model was validated using a separate cohort of arm C (n = 168, AUC 0.79, 95% confidence interval 0.74-0.85). Conclusion: We validated 7 models of prediction of non-SLN among patients showing axillary conversion through PST. Our own ‘SENTINA nomogram' yielded AUC values comparable to previous nomograms.
Infants Uniquely Express High Levels of RBM3 and Other Cold-Adaptive Neuroprotectant Proteins in the Human Brain
Authors: Jackson Travis C. , Kotermanski Shawn E. , Kochanek Patrick M.
Published: November 2018

Neuroprotective cold-shock proteins (CSPs) are abundant in the normothermic neonatal rodent brain but decrease with advancing neurodevelopmental age and are low or absent in the adult brain. It has not been established if neurodevelopmental age alters the baseline expression of CSPs in the human brain. Here, we tested the hypothesis that protein levels of RNA-binding motif 3 (RBM3), reticulon-3 (RTN3), and cold-induced RNA-binding protein (CIRBP) are abundant in the normothermic developing human brain but low-to-absent in adults. We also tested if β-klotho (KLB) is expressed in the developing brain; KLB functions as a coreceptor that controls tissue-specific binding and activity of the systemically circulating thermogenic hormone fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), and is predominantly expressed in the liver, pancreas, and in adipose cells. Methods: Hippocampi and anterior prefrontal cortices (aPFCs/BA10) from a total of 20 male and 20 female subjects were obtained from the NIH NeuroBioBank. CSP and KLB levels were measured in: infants < 1 year old (n = 8), toddlers aged 1–2 years (n = 8), children aged 3–5 years (n = 7), 18-year-old adolescents (n = 8), and adults aged 31–34 years (n = 8). An equal number of male and female (n = 4 each) samples were pooled into each age group, except in the 3- to 5-year-olds which comprised 3 male and 4 female specimens due to sample availability. In total, 78 whole-brain tissues were dissociated using a bead-based Precellys homogenizer to generate equivalent homogenates, and levels of protein targets subsequently analyzed by Western blotting. Results: Infants had the highest levels of RBM3 and other CSPs in the brain compared to all other ages. In the hippocampus, CSPs were detected predominantly in infants. In the aPFC, CSP levels were highest in infants, moderate-to-low in toddlers/children, and below assay detection limits in adolescents/adults. Germane to the thermogenic FGF21/KLB signaling axis, our results confirm that KLB is absent in the adult hippocampus/aPFC as reported by others. In contrast, we report for the first time that KLB is abundant in the early developing human brain; KLB levels were highest in the infant hippocampus/aPFC and moderately expressed in toddlers. RBM3 is a potent neuroprotective CSP. Thus, the impact of these findings on the observed efficacy of therapeutic hypothermia in neonatal brain injury merits further investigation.