bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining robust dynamic neural networks with traditional technical indicators for generating mechanic trading signals
Authors: Giribone Pier Giuseppe , Ligato Simone , Penone Francesco
Published: December 2018

Forecasting assets’ prices is the aim of each trader, although the trading approaches employed may vary a lot. The development of machine learning techniques has brought the opportunity to design mechanic trading systems based on dynamic artificial neural networks. The aim of this paper is to combine traditional technical indicators [such as exponential weighted moving average (EWMA), percentage volume oscillator (PVO) and stochastic indicator — %K and %D] with the nonlinear autoregressive networks (NAR and NARX). The first part of the paper describes how neural networks designed for forecasting time series work, the second one performs a deeper validation of the code and the third one combines the dynamic networks with traditional technical indicators in order to generate reliable mechanic signals. The article ends with a back testing of the trading system performed on Dow Jones Industrial Average and on Nasdaq Composite Indexes.
New High Performance GPGPU Code Transformation Framework Applied to Large Production Weather Prediction Code
Authors: Müller Michel , Aoki Takayuki
Published: December 2018

We introduce “Hybrid Fortran,” a new approach that allows a high-performance GPGPU port for structured grid Fortran codes. This technique only requires minimal changes for a CPU targeted codebase, which is a significant advancement in terms of productivity. It has been successfully applied to both dynamical core and physical processes of ASUCA, a Japanese mesoscale weather prediction model with more than 150k lines of code. By means of a minimal weather application that resembles ASUCA’s code structure, Hybrid Fortran is compared to both a performance model as well as today’s commonly used method, OpenACC. As a result, the Hybrid Fortran implementation is shown to deliver the same or better performance than OpenACC, and its performance agrees with the model both on CPU and GPU. In a full-scale production run, using an ASUCA grid with 1581 × 1301 × 58 cells and real-world weather data in 2km resolution, 24 NVIDIA Tesla P100 running the Hybrid Fortran–based GPU port are shown to replace more than fifty 18-core Intel Xeon Broadwell E5-2695 v4 running the reference implementation—an achievement comparable to more invasive GPGPU rewrites of other weather models.
MicroRNA-150 suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition, invasion, and metastasis in prostate cancer through the TRPM4-mediated β-catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Hong Xi , Yu Jian-Jun
Published: December 2018

Prostate cancer (PCa) remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among males. The aim of the current study was to investigate the ability of microRNA-150 (miR-150) targeting transient receptor potential melastatin 4 (TRPM4) to mediate epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, and metastasis through the β-catenin signaling pathway in PCa. Microarray analysis was performed to identify PCa-related differentially expressed genes, after which both the mirDIP and TargetScan databases were employed in the prediction of the miRNAs regulating TRPM4. Immunohistochemistry and RT-qPCR were conducted to determine the expression pattern of miR-150 and TRPM4 in PCa. The relationship between miR-150 and TRPM4 expression was identified. By perturbing miR-150 and TRPM4 expression in PCa cells, cell proliferation, migration, invasion, cycle, and apoptosis as well as EMT markers were determined accordingly. Finally, tumor growth and metastasis were evaluated among nude mice. Higher TRPM4 expression and lower miR-150 expression and activation of the β-catenin signaling pathway as well as EMT stimulation were detected in the PCa tissues. Our results confirmed TRPM4 as a target of miR-150. Upregulation of miR-150 resulted in inactivation of the β-catenin signaling pathway. Furthermore, the upregulation of miR-150 or knockdown of TRPM4 was observed to suppress EMT, proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro in addition to restrained tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. The evidence provided by our study highlights the involvement of miR-150 in the translational suppression of TRPM4 and the blockade of the β-catenin signaling pathway, resulting in the inhibition of PCa progression.
Focused ultrasound transiently increases membrane conductance in isolated crayfish axon
Authors: Lin Jen-Wei , Yu Feiyuan , Müller Wolfgang S. , Ehnholm Gösta , Okada Yoshio
Published: December 2018

We report a novel phenomenon produced by focused ultrasound (US) that may be important for understanding its effects on cell membranes. When a US burst (2.1 MHz, 1-mm focal diameter, 0.1–1 MPa) was focused on a motor axon of the crayfish neuromuscular junction, it consistently produced a fast hyperpolarization, which was followed or superseded by subthreshold depolarizations or action potentials in a stochastic manner. The depolarization persisted in the presence of voltage-gated channel blockers [1 µM TTX ( INa), 50 µM ZD7288 ( Ih), and 200 µM 4-aminopyridine ( IK)] and typically started shortly after the onset of a 5-ms US burst, with a mean latency of 3.35 ± 0.53 ms (SE). The duration and amplitude of depolarizations averaged 2.13 ± 0.87 s and 10.1 ± 2.09 mV, with a maximum of 200 s and 60 mV, respectively. The US-induced depolarization was always associated with a decrease in membrane resistance. By measuring membrane potential and resistance during the US-induced depolarization, the reversal potential of US-induced conductance ( gus) was estimated to be −8.4 ± 2.3 mV, suggesting a nonselective conductance. The increase in gus was 10–100 times larger than the leak conductance; thus it could significantly influence neuronal activity. This change in conductance may be due to stimulation of mechanoreceptors. Alternatively, US may perturb the lateral motion of phospholipids and produce nanopores, which then increase gus. These results may be important for understanding mechanisms underlying US-mediated modulation of neuronal activity and brain function.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We report a specific increase in membrane conductance produced by ultrasound (US) on neuronal membrane. When a 5-ms US tone burst was focused on a crayfish motor axon, it stochastically triggered either depolarization or a spike train. The depolarization was up to 60 mV in amplitude and 200 s in duration and therefore could significantly influence neuronal activity. Depolarization was still evoked by US burst in the presence of Na+ and Ca2+ channel blockers and had a reversal potential of −8.4 ± 2.3 mV, suggesting a nonselective permeability. US can be applied noninvasively in the form of a focused beam to deep brain areas through the skull and has been shown to modulate brain activity. Understanding the depolarization reported here should be helpful for improving the use of US for noninvasive modulation and stimulation in brain-related disease.
Young Children Use Discovery and Creation Significantly More Than Adults for Deciding Ownership
Authors: Faigenbaum Gustavo , Sigman Mariano , Casiraghi Leandro Pablo
Published: December 2018

The present study attempted to determine differences between children and adults in the resolution of third-party property disputes involving different claims for ownership. Children (n = 110; mean age ± SD = 6.3 ± 1.2) and adults (n = 74; 37.5 ± 12.6) watched videos depicting ownership conflicts between two characters who held opposing claims over an object and were asked to decide who should own it. In the stories, each character based her claim on one of four distinct arguments: Discovery, Creation, Occupation, and Transaction. A key difference between these claims lies in the presence or absence of a “first possession” element: Discovery and Creation imply prior possession of the discovered or created object, whereas Occupation and Transaction necessarily involve a preexisting owner. We found that children assigned ownership to prior possessors in the stories twice as much as adults (Medians = 4 and 2, out of four cases, respectively; p < 0.001) and favored discoverers and creators substantially more than adults. Previous studies have demonstrated the importance of first possession in the adjudication of ownership for both children and adults. The present study deals with first possession as instantiated in Discovery and Creation episodes and provides novel quantitative evidence that children value first possession significantly more than adults. In contrast with previous studies, we found that discovery trumps creation in certain contexts, suggesting that narrative and contextual details influence children’s reasoning.
Durability and Microstructure Properties of Concrete with Arabic Gum Biopolymer Admixture
Authors: Mohamed Abdeliazim Mustafa , Osman Mohd Hanim , Smaoui Hichem , Mohd Ariffin Mohd Azreen
Published: December 2018

Arabic gum biopolymer (AGB) has recently been demonstrated to improve mechanical and physical properties of fresh and hardened concrete which makes it a promising sustainable and environmentally friendly water‐reducing admixture. The present work focuses on the effect of added AGB on the workability, setting time, and durability of concrete. Furthermore, a microstructure analysis is conducted to provide objective evidence and support for previous findings and hypothetic interpretations. Flow table experiments are conducted on Portland cement mortar mixed with different percentages of AGB to evaluate the workability. The initial setting time of cement paste is measured for different AGB contents. X‐ray fluorescence tests are performed on cement‐AGB mix powder to determine its chemical composition. Carbonation depth in AGB concrete samples is estimated to assess durability. AGB‐added cement powder was subjected to X‐ray diffraction and SEM tests to determine the rate of hydration and to expose the microstructure properties of AGB cement mix and help explain its macroscopic behavior, respectively.
An Unusual Coexistence of Primary Central Nervous System Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia
Authors: Fracchiolla Nicola Stefano , Sciumè Mariarita , Cernuschi Giulia , Cortelezzi Agostino
Published: December 2018

Acute promyelocytic leukemia and primary central nervous system lymphoma are uncommon hematological malignancies. The co-occurrence of acute myeloid leukemia with various lymphoproliferative diseases is an extremely rare condition, especially in the absence of previous chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Herein, we provide a comprehensive characterization of a patient with concomitant diagnosis of extranodal high-grade non-Hodgkin B-cell neoplasm confined to the central nervous system and acute promyelocytic leukemia. We describe the efficacy and feasibility of the consecutive use of all-trans retinoic acid and arsenic trioxide-containing regimen for the treatment of promyelocytic leukemia and high-dose methotrexate plus cytarabine to treat lymphoproliferative involvement of the central nervous system.
Challenges in Stratifying the Molecular Variability of Patient-Derived Colon Tumor Xenografts
Authors: Cybulska Magdalena , Olesinski Tomasz , Goryca Krzysztof , Paczkowska Katarzyna , Statkiewicz Malgorzata , Kopczynski Michal , Grochowska Aleksandra , Unrug-Bielawska Katarzyna , Tyl-Bielicka Anita , Gajewska Marta , Mroz Andrzej , Dabrowska Michalina , Karczmarski Jakub , Paziewska Agnieszka , Zając Leszek , Bednarczyk Mariusz , Mikula Michal , Ostrowski Jerzy
Published: December 2018

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cancer in Europe and a leading cause of death worldwide. Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models maintain complex intratumoral biology and heterogeneity and therefore remain the platform of choice for translational drug discovery. In this study, we implanted 37 primary CRC tumors and five CRC cell lines into NU/J mice to develop xenograft models. Primary tumors and established xenografts were histologically assessed and surveyed for genetic variants and gene expression using a panel of 409 cancer-related genes and RNA-seq, respectively. More than half of CRC tumors (20 out of 37, 54%) developed into a PDX. Histological assessment confirmed that PDX grading, stromal components, inflammation, and budding were consistent with those of the primary tumors. DNA sequencing identified an average of 0.14 variants per gene per sample. The percentage of mutated variants in PDXs increased with successive passages, indicating a decrease in clonal heterogeneity. Gene Ontology analyses of 4180 differentially expressed transcripts (adj. p value < 0.05) revealed overrepresentation of genes involved in cell division and catabolic processes among the transcripts upregulated in PDXs; downregulated transcripts were associated with GO terms related to extracellular matrix organization, immune responses, and angiogenesis. Neither a transcriptome-based consensus molecular subtype (CMS) classifier nor three other predictors reliably matched PDX molecular subtypes with those of the primary tumors. In sum, both genetic and transcriptomic profiles differed between donor tumors and PDXs, likely as a consequence of subclonal evolution at the early phase of xenograft development, making molecular stratification of PDXs challenging.
Health Related Quality of Life in Individuals Transferred from a Needle Exchange Program and Starting Opioid Agonist Treatment
Authors: Bråbäck Martin , Brådvik Louise , Troberg Katja , Isendahl Pernilla , Nilsson Suzan , Håkansson Anders
Published: December 2018

Background. Opioid agonist treatment (OAT), for the treatment of heroin dependence, has been reported to improve overall health and lower mortality. Drug use and retention in treatment have often been used as measures of treatment success. More recently, however, researchers have suggested that measurements of quality of life should be an outcome in substance use treatment evaluations. In a recent randomized controlled trial we demonstrated high rates of successful rapid referral from a needle exchange program (NEP) to OAT. The aim of this study was to see whether an improvement in health related quality of life (HRQoL) could be seen at 3-month follow-up after starting OAT and whether it was associated with any baseline characteristics. We also wanted to compare our sample to a sample from the general population with regard to HRQoL.Methods.This was a 3-month follow-up of 71 patients who started OAT. Measurements of HRQoL with EQ-5D (an instrument developed by the EuroQol group) were made at baseline and at three months.Results.Mean EQ-5D VAS (visual analogue scale) for the study sample at baseline was 47.3, which was lower than a Swedish reference population reporting 83.3. Individuals reporting being prescribed a drug for a psychiatric condition had significantly lower EQ-5D index values. Improvement in EQ-5D index score was significantly less for individuals reporting previous overdoses (-0.10, p=0.025). Individuals reporting previous suicide attempts had significantly lower EQ-5D VAS score at baseline. A significant increase of the EQ-5D VAS difference over time was found with a mean difference of 10.94 (p=0.008) for the total sample.Conclusion. To our knowledge this is the first time HRQoL as an outcome is reported in a population transferred from a NEP to OAT. Our results indicate that OAT can result in increased HRQoL, even with this type of rapid low-threshold referral.
A Feasibility RCT Evaluating a Play-Informed, Caregiver-Implemented, Home-Based Intervention to Improve the Play of Children Who Are HIV Positive
Authors: Ramugondo Elelwani , Ferreira Anande , Chung Donna , Cordier Reinie
Published: December 2018

Background/aim. In South Africa, contextual factors have been identified as barriers to outdoor, unstructured play. The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and resulting progressive HIV encephalopathy (PHE) is a pandemic in this area, associated with development delays that are not addressed by highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART). This study aimed to describe the playfulness in children with HIV and PHE on HAART living in challenging socioeconomic areas in South Africa aged 6 months to 8 years and to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a play-informed, caregiver-implemented, home-based intervention (PICIHBI) for improving play. Methods. A feasibility randomized control trial allowed for comparison of PICIHBI and conventional one-on-one occupational therapy interventions. Children were filmed playing pre-, mid-, and postintervention, using the Test of Playfulness (ToP) to assess playfulness. The PICIHBI comprised of 10 monthly sessions facilitated by an occupational therapist, involving group discussions with caregivers and periods of experiential play. Results. Twenty-four children with HIV and/or PHE were randomized into one of the two intervention groups. Overall, the group (n=24) had a median score of 0 (lowest item score) on nine of 24 ToP items and only had a median score of 3 (highest score) on two items. Pre- to postintervention overall ToP scores improved marginally for the PICIHBI group (n=12) and the conventional group (n=12). Between-group differences were not significant. The PICIHBI group demonstrated a significant increase in one ToP item score at midassessment. No significant ToP item changes were found in the conventional group. Conclusion. Children with HIV were found to have the most difficulty on ToP items relating to the play elements of internal control and freedom from constraints of reality. The PICIHBI did not significantly improve children’s play and was not more effective than the conventional intervention. Considerations for feasibility and effectiveness, including barriers to attendance, are discussed.
Influence of Continuous Training on Atrial Myocytes IK1 and IKAch and on Induction of Atrial Fibrillation in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Yuan Dou , Zheng Ping , Tan Chen , Huang Si Hui , Li Dan , Huang Jian
Published: December 2018

Background. Elucidation of mechanisms underlying continuous training-related atrial fibrillation (AF) may inform formulation of novel therapeutic approaches and training method selection. This study was aimed at assessing mechanisms underlying continuous training-induced AF in an animal model. Methods. Healthy New Zealand rabbits were divided into three groups (n=8 each), namely, control (C), and moderate intensity (M), and high intensity (H) continuous training according to treadmill speed. Atrial size andintrinsic and resting heart rates were measured by transthoracic echocardiography before, and 8 and 12 weeks after training. Using a Langendorff perfusion system, AF was induced by S1S2 stimulation and the induction rate was recorded. Atrial IK1 and IKAch ion current densities were recorded using whole-cell patch-clamp technique in isolated atrial myocytes. Changes in atrial Kir2.1, Kir2.2, Kir3.1, and Kir3.4 mRNA expression were assessed by reverse transcriptase-coupled polymerase chain reaction. Results. After 8 and 12 weeks, Groups M and H vs. Group C had greater (all P<0.05) atrial anteroposterior diameter; greater incidence of AF (60% and 90% vs. 45%, respectively; P<0.05, also between Groups H and M); and greater atrial IKAch current density. In Group H, Kir2.1 and Kir2.2 mRNA expression in the left and right atria was increased (P<0.05, vs. Groups C and M) as was left atrial Kir3.1 and Kir3.4 mRNA expression (P<0.05, vs. Group C). Conclusion. In a rabbit model, continuous training enlarges atrial diameter leading to atrial structural and electrical remodeling and increased AF incidence.
Displacement Calculation Method on Front Wall of Covered Sheet‐Pile Wharf
Authors: Gong Wen-xue , Wang Li-yan , Li Jinsong , Wang Bing-hui
Published: December 2018

Covered sheet‐pile wharves are widely used in port engineering, water conservancy, and civil engineering. This paper is based on the theory of earth pressure and the soil arching effect. According to the stress and deformation characteristics of the covered sheet‐pile wharf, the formulas used to calculate the force and deformation of the front wall of a covered sheet‐pile wharf under static loads are deduced. The accuracy of the theoretical derivation is verified by comparing actual measured stress and deformation data of Jingtang Port 32#. The comparison shows that when calculating the displacement of the section below the mud surface boundary, the results are in agreement with the in situ data. However, when calculating the displacement of the section above the mud surface boundary, if the anchorage point displacement is ignored because the anchorage point displacement is limited artificially, the calculated tension of the tie rod is relatively large. This leads to a significant decrease in the calculation result of the section above the mud surface boundary, which is very different from actual in situ measurement results. If anchorage point displacement is considered, the calculated tension of the tie rod is more accurate, and the calculation results of the front wall displacement are very close to in situ measurement results because the anchorage point displacement is assumed scientifically.
Fixed Point Results for Multivalued Contractive Mappings Endowed with Graphic Structure
Authors: Rasham Tahair , Shoaib Abdullah , Alamri Badriah A. S. , Arshad Muhammad
Published: December 2018

The aim of this paper is to introduce the notion of admissible multivalued mappings and to set up fixed point results for such mappings fulfilling generalized locally Ćirić type rational-contractive conditions on a closed ball in complete dislocated b-metric space. Example and application have been given to demonstrate the novelty of our results. Our results combine, extend, and infer several comparable results in the existing literature.
Monitoring and Control Systems in Agriculture Using Intelligent Sensor Techniques: A Review of the Aeroponic System
Authors: Lakhiar Imran Ali , Jianmin Gao , Syed Tabinda Naz , Chandio Farman Ali , Buttar Noman Ali , Qureshi Waqar Ahmed
Published: December 2018

In recent years, intelligent sensor techniques have achieved significant attention in agriculture. It is applied in agriculture to plan the several activities and missions properly by utilising limited resources with minor human interference. Currently, plant cultivation using new agriculture methods is very popular among the growers. However, the aeroponics is one of the methods of modern agriculture, which is commonly practiced around the world. In the system, plant cultivates under complete control conditions in the growth chamber by providing a small mist of the nutrient solution in replacement of the soil. The nutrient mist is ejected through atomization nozzles on a periodical basis. During the plant cultivation, several steps including temperature, humidity, light intensity, water nutrient solution level, pH and EC value, CO2concentration, atomization time, and atomization interval time require proper attention for flourishing plant growth. Therefore, the object of this review study was to provide significant knowledge about early fault detection and diagnosis in aeroponics using intelligent techniques (wireless sensors). So, the farmer could monitor several paraments without using laboratory instruments, and the farmer could control the entire system remotely. Moreover, the technique also provides a wide range of information which could be essential for plant researchers and provides a greater understanding of how the key parameters of aeroponics correlate with plant growth in the system. It offers full control of the system, not by constant manual attention from the operator but to a large extent by wireless sensors. Furthermore, the adoption of the intelligent techniques in the aeroponic system could reduce the concept of the usefulness of the system due to complicated manually monitoring and controlling process.
Generalized Bootstrapping Technique Based on Block Equality Test Algorithm
Authors: Zhao Xiufeng , Wang Ailan
Published: December 2018

With the rapid development of cloud computation and big data, the data storage and outsource computation are delegated to the untrusted cloud, which has led to a series of challenging security and privacy threats. Fully homomorphic encryption can be used to protect the privacy of cloud data and solve the trust problem of third party. The key problem of achieving fully homomorphic encryption is how to reduce the increasing noise during the ciphertext evaluation. Bootstrapping procedure can refresh ciphertext with large error, such that the resulting ciphertext has potentially smaller error and allows being continuous homomorphic evaluation. In this paper, we investigated the bootstrapping procedure used to construct fully homomorphic encryption scheme. We proposed a new concept of block homomorphic equality test algorithm and gave an instance based on the FH-SIMD scheme. Furthermore, based on the block homomorphic equality test algorithm, we proposed a faster bootstrapping procedure with smaller bootstrapping keys. Both theory analysis and experiment simulation validate high performance of our bootstrapping algorithm.
Experimental Study on Prevention of Calcium Carbonate Crystallizing in Drainage Pipe of Tunnel Engineering
Authors: Zhou Yuanfu , Zhang Xuefu , Wei Liangwen , Liu Shiyang , Zhang Bin , Zhou Chao
Published: December 2018

If the tunnel drainage pipes are blocked, the supporting structures will be in danger because they would receive more force than before. In order to investigate the blocking problem, some laboratory tests and in situ experiments were carried out. Microtests showed that the main component of crystal is calcium carbonate. Calcium ions, carbonate ions, and bicarbonate ions of groundwater should be related to the crystal. The polyvinyl chloride pipe, hydrophobic antistatic self‐cleaning coated pipe, silicone rubber coated pipe, pipe under electromagnetic field, polytetrafluoroethylene coated pipe, and polyethylene coated pipe were used in laboratory and field experiments. The laboratory results showed that the electromagnetic field may be the best method to prevent crystallization because the crystallizing weight was less than 0.1 g in 30 days. The field tests showed that there was less crystals on the inner surface of hydrophobic antistatic self‐cleaning coated pipe than that of the polyvinyl chloride pipe and the polytetrafluoroethylene coated pipe. The crystallization prevention effects of the other experimental pipes need more studies to examine.
Influence of Hydrothermal and Pyrolysis Processes on the Transformation of Organic Matter of Dense Low-Permeability Rocks from Domanic Formations of the Romashkino Oil Field
Authors: Kayukova Galina P. , Mikhailova Anastasiya N. , Khasanova Nailia M. , Morozov Vladimir P. , Vakhin Alexey V. , Nazimov Nafis A. , Sotnikov Oleg S. , Khisamov Rais S.
Published: December 2018

The model experiments regarding the conversion of organic matters from carbonate rock samples of Dankov-Lebedyan deposits of Zelenogorskaya area and siliceous-carbonate rocks of Semiluki-Mendym deposits of Berezovskaya area of Domanic formations of Romashkino oil field were carried out. Two types of experiments were carried out: (1) the hydrothermal treatment of rocks at a temperature of 350°C in the presence of carbonic acid and a water content of 30%; (2) pyrolysis at temperatures of 350 and 600°C in the presence of hydrogen. The yield and quality of extracted hydrocarbons from the rocks depending on the mineral composition of rocks, content and composition of organic matter, and thermal stability of kerogen under hydrothermal influences were evaluated. Application of electron paramagnetic resonance in pyrolysis processes revealed the difference in mineral content of rocks (Mn2+, SO3−, and SO2− ions) and free radicals R∗, as well as in vanadyl ion (VO2+) concentration. It is established that an increasing temperature of pyrolysis promotes the formation of new free organic radicals in rock samples: in Domanic rocks of Semiluki-Mendym deposits at 350°С and in carbonate rocks of Dankov-Lebedyan horizon at 600°С. This indicates different ability of oil-generating potential of rocks with hydrothermal and pyrolysis technologies.
Mesoporous Nickel-Based Zeolite Capsule Complex with Fe3O4 as Electrode for Advanced Supercapacitor
Authors: Song Lili , Han Yinghui , Guo Feng , Jiao Yunpeng , Li Yujuan , Liu Yunpeng , Gao Feng
Published: December 2018

A new kind of zeolite capsule complex with ferriferous oxide (Fe3O4) materials was prepared in this work. Its morphology was characterized via the scanning electron microscope (SEM), the high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), N2 adsorption analysis, and X-ray powder diffraction, respectively. The mesoporous nickel-based complex electrodes using substrate coating exhibited excellent energy storage properties through electrochemical testing. The high specific capacitance of 739.8 F g−1 was achieved at the current density of 1 A g−1 in a 6 M KOH solution. The good capacitance retention can retain 72.8% after 1000 cycles in a current density of 1 A g−1. The energy storage mechanism of the nickel-based complex electrodes was also analyzed. Furthermore, the asymmetrical supercapacitors (ASCs) were fabricated using the zeolite capsule complex with Fe3O4 as positive electrodes and the AC as negative electrodes, which performs high specific capacitance, outstanding energy density, superb power density, excellent cycle life, and small internal impedance. Those results suggest that the mesoporous nickel-based zeolite capsule complex with Fe3O4 as an electrode would be an ideal candidate material for supercapacitor applications.
Effects of Oncogenic Gαq and Gα11 Inhibition by FR900359 in Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Lapadula Dominic , Farias Eduardo , Randolph Clinita E. , Purwin Timothy J. , McGrath Dougan , Charpentier Thomas H. , Zhang Lihong , Wu Shihua , Terai Mizue , Sato Takami , Tall Gregory G. , Zhou Naiming , Wedegaertner Philip B. , Aplin Andrew E. , Aguirre-Ghiso Julio , Benovic Jeffrey L.
Published: December 2018

Uveal melanoma is the most common intraocular tumor in adults and often metastasizes to the liver, leaving patients with few options. Recurrent activating mutations in the G proteins, Gαq and Gα11, are observed in approximately 93% of all uveal melanomas. Although therapeutic intervention of downstream Gαq/11 targets has been unsuccessful in treating uveal melanoma, we have found that the Gαq/11 inhibitor, FR900359 (FR), effectively inhibits oncogenic Gαq/11 signaling in uveal melanoma cells expressing either mutant Gαq or Gα11. Inhibition of oncogenic Gαq/11 by FR results in cell-cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis. Furthermore, colony formation is prevented by FR treatment of uveal melanoma cells in 3D-cell culture, providing promise for future in vivo studies. This suggests direct inhibition of activating Gαq/11 mutants may be a potential means of treating uveal melanoma.

Implications:

Oncogenic Gαq/11 inhibition by FR900359 may be a potential treatment option for those with uveal melanoma.
Expression of Cell-Penetrating Peptides Fused to Protein Cargo
Authors: Adhikari Sayanee , Alahmadi Turki I. , Gong Zifan , Karlsson Amy J.
Published: December 2018

Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are short peptides that can cross cell membranes. CPPs enable the delivery of biomolecules into cells and can act as drug-delivery vectors. Because recombinant production of CPPs as fusions to protein “cargo” leads to low yields for some CPP-cargo fusions, approaches to enhance the recombinant expression of peptide-cargo fusions need to be identified. We optimized expression conditions in Escherichia coli for fusions of CPPs (SynB, histatin-5, and MPG) to the cargo proteins biotin carboxyl carrier protein, maltose-binding protein, and green fluorescent protein. We used Western blotting to evaluate induction temperatures of 37, 30, and 20°C, and induction times of 6, 10, and 24 h. Glutathione-S-transferase was incorporated as a fusion partner to improve expression. In general, expression at 37°C for 6 and 10 h led to the highest levels of expression for the different CPP-cargo constructs. The improvements in expression of CPP-cargo fusions will allow higher yields of CPP-cargo fusions for studies of their translocation into cells.
Active Vitamin D in Chronic Kidney Disease: Getting Right Back Where We Started from?
Authors: Negrea Lavinia
Published: December 2018

Background: The vitamin D system is essential for optimal health in humans. Circulating calcitriol, a key metabolite in maintaining calcium and phosphorus homeostasis, is produced in the kidney. In kidney failure, calcitriol levels progressively decrease, contributing to the development of renal secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT). Summary: For years, SHPT had a central role in the disturbed mineral metabolism of renal patients. As calcitriol deficiency contributes to SHPT development, treatment with calcitriol or other compounds able to activate the vitamin D receptor (VDR) was one of the mainstays of therapy for renal patients in the last 40 years. In this review, we discuss how the treatment with VDR activators (VDRA) evolved during this time in the United States, as well as the main factors responsible for these changes. Key Messages: Management of SHPT with VDRA in renal patients has undergone a few paradigm shifts over the last 40 years. When treating SHPT, the newly developed therapies as well as VDRA need to be carefully considered and used appropriately. Nephrologists need to use an integrated approach that avoids excessive use of VDRA, ensures replenishment of vitamin D stores, and avoids hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia.
Impact of Recent Clinical Trials on Nephrology Practice: Are We in a Stagnant Era?
Authors: Yaseen Maria , Hassan Waleed , Awad Radwa , Ashqar Bilal , Neyra Javier , Heister Tagalie , Malik Omar , El-Husseini Amr
Published: December 2018

Background: Although renal replacement therapy prevents death from uremia, survival among patients with acute and chronic kidney diseases (CKD) remains an imperative concern. The expected life span of US dialysis patients 60–64 years of age is approximately 4.5 years; this is similar to that of patients with lung cancer. Despite substantial progress in many medical specialties over the past decades (e.g., notable reductions in myocardial infarction, stroke, and mortality rates in the general population), survival among dialysis patients has not improved significantly over the same period. A few decades ago, HIV infection and AIDS were pretty much a death sentence. Because of progress in HIV treatment, now it can be controlled with a daily pill, and ongoing research is pushing treatment even further and controls the virus with longer-acting treatment. A cure is no longer impossible for HIV and other viral infections such as hepatitis B and C and many malignancies, but so far there is no cure for CKD. Summary: Billions of dollars have been spent on kidney disease research in the past decades, with no tangible progress in clinical practice. The challenges of improving the quantity and quality of trials in nephrology are enormous. The number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in nephrology is lower than that in other medical subspecialties, and most of the big RCTs in nephrology yield negative results. Nephrology studies evaluating hard clinical endpoints or surrogate endpoints are scarce. Key Message: Herein we discuss the slow progress in nephrology research that has impacted clinical practice over the last couple of decades and highlight the major obstacles, challenges, and potential solutions.
Psoriasis: Keratinocytes or Immune Cells – Which Is the Trigger?
Authors: Benhadou Farida , Mintoff Dillon , del Marmol Véronique
Published: December 2018

Background: Psoriasis is a common, chronic inflammatory skin disorder, which can significantly impact quality of life. Despite major breakthroughs in our understanding of the pathogenesis of psoriasis, the chronological order of the underlying mechanisms leading to the development of psoriatic plaques remains to be completely understood. Summary: Although psoriasis is classically perceived as a T-cell disease, it is now well recognized that T lymphocytes do not function in exclusivity. This theory is supported by evidence from transgenic murine models that develop marked psoriasiform disease. In addition, immune cells and cytokines regulate both early and late events involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Key Messages: Psoriasis is a complex disease – a dynamic interplay between immune cells, keratinocytes, and various other skin-resident cells, such as endothelial and immune cells. The contribution of each cell type is crucial in the initiation and maintenance phases of psoriatic alterations.
Blood Pressure and Risk of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in China
Authors: McGurgan Iain John , Clarke Robert , Lacey Ben , Kong Xiang Ling , Chen Zhengming , Chen Yiping , Guo Yu , Bian Zheng , Li Liming , Lewington Sarah ,   for the China Kadoorie Biobank Consortium
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose—

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) has a high case fatality rate and young mean age at onset compared with other types of stroke, but the pathogenesis of SAH is not fully understood. We examined associations of systolic and diastolic blood pressure with incident nontraumatic SAH in a large prospective study in China.

Methods—

In 2004 to 2008, 512 891 adults (59% women) from the general population were recruited into the CKB study (China Kadoorie Biobank). Participants were interviewed, measured, and followed up for fatal and nonfatal events. After excluding those with prior vascular disease, Cox regression analysis was used to relate blood pressure to incident SAH events. Analyses were adjusted for major confounders and corrected for regression dilution to give associations with long-term average blood pressure.

Results—

At baseline, mean age was 51 (SD, 11) years, and mean systolic blood pressure/diastolic blood pressure was 130.6/77.6 (SD, 21.0/11.1) mm Hg. During 3.5 million person-years of follow-up, there were 553 incident SAH cases (mean age at event, 61 [SD, 11] years), yielding an overall annual incidence rate of 12.9 per 100 000. Higher average levels of blood pressure were linearly and positively associated with higher risks of incident SAH: a 10 mm Hg higher systolic blood pressure and a 5 mm Hg higher diastolic blood pressure were associated with hazard ratios for SAH of 1.21 (95% CI, 1.13–1.29) and 1.20 (95% CI, 1.12–1.28), respectively. There was no evidence that the hazard ratios varied by age or sex or by levels of other vascular risk factors. Elevated blood pressure (systolic blood pressure, >120 mm Hg) accounted for 23% of all SAH cases.

Conclusions—

The incidence of SAH in China was comparable with estimates from Western populations. Higher levels of blood pressure were positively associated with higher risks of SAH, and elevated blood pressure accounted for about a quarter of all SAH cases.
Declining Admission and Mortality Rates for Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Canada Between 2004 and 2015
Authors: Chan Vivien , Lindsay Patrice , McQuiggan Jessica , Zagorski Brandon , Hill Michael D. , O’Kelly Cian
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose—

The purpose of this study was to assess recent trends in the admission and mortality rates for subarachnoid hemorrhage in Canada.

Methods—

This retrospective cross-sectional study was based on data retrieved from the Canadian Institute for Health Information for all patients diagnosed with subarachnoid hemorrhage in Canada between 2004 and 2015. Adjusted admission rate, in-hospital mortality rates, and discharge disposition were calculated.

Results—

A total of 19 765  patients were diagnosed with subarachnoid hemorrhage between 2004 and 2015. The mean age was 58.1 years, and 40.3% were men. The annual hospitalization rate was 6.34 per 100 000 person-years, declining by −0.67% annually. In-hospital mortality rate was 21.5%.

Conclusions—

The Canadian subarachnoid hemorrhage admission and mortality rates are lower than previously reported, with a declining trend.
The Neural Representational Space of Social Memory
Authors: Dziura Sarah L. , Thompson James C.
Published: December 2018

Social functioning involves learning about the social networks in which we live and interact; knowing not just our friends, but also who is friends with our friends. This study utilized an incidental learning paradigm and representational similarity analysis (RSA), a functional MRI multivariate pattern analysis technique, to examine the relationship between learning social networks and the brain’s response to the faces within the networks. We found that accuracy of learning face pair relationships through observation is correlated with neural similarity patterns to those pairs in the left temporoparietal junction (TPJ), the left fusiform gyrus, and the subcallosal ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), all areas previously implicated in social cognition. This model was also significant in portions of the cerebellum and thalamus. These results show that the similarity of neural patterns represent how accurately we understand the closeness of any two faces within a network. Our findings indicate that these areas of the brain not only process knowledge and understanding of others, but also support learning relations between individuals in groups.
The madicolous nymph of Heteropodagrion sanguinipes Selys (Odonata: Megapodagrionidae)
Authors: TENNESSEN KENNETH J.
Published: December 2018

Nymphs of the genus Heteropodagrion are described and illustrated for the first time based on supposed specimens of H. sanguinipes taken in vertical sheet flow adjacent to small montane streams in western Ecuador. The nymph of Heteropodagrion resembles Paraphlebia and Sciotropis, but is unique among Megapodagrionidae in possessing a slightly curved row of very small transverse ridges on each side of the prementum.Las ninfas del género Heteropodagrion se describen e ilustran por primera vez sobre la base de supuestos especímenes de H. sanguinipes, recolectados de una corriente laminar vertical adyacente a pequeños arroyos montanos en Ecuador occidental. La larva de Heteropodagrion se parece a las de Paraphlebia y Sciotropis, pero es única entre los Megapodagrionidae por poseer una hilera ligeramente curvada de pequeñas crestas transversales a cada lado del prementón.
New taxa of the genus Phlugiolopsis (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Meconematinae) from Yunnan, China, with comments on the importance to taxonomy of the left tegmen
Authors: BIAN XUN , SHI FUMING
Published: December 2018

The relationships among the Phlugiolopsis species are poorly understood. In this paper, three new subgenera are proposed and four new species are described from Yunnan, China. The microstructures of male stridulatory files are examined for selected species of Phlugiolopsis using scanning electron micrographs (SEM). Geometric morphometric study of the left tegmen for the genus Phlugiolopsis was carried out to demonstrate the effect of vicariance on species. Differences among species are minute, suggesting that the separation is recent. All examined specimens are deposited in the Museum of Hebei University (HBUM).
New species of Dryocosmus Giraud gallwasps from California (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae: Cynipini) galling Chrysolepis Hjelmq. (Fagaceae)
Authors: NICHOLLS JAMES A. , MELIKA GEORGE , DeMARTINI JOHN , STONE GRAHAM N.
Published: December 2018

Four species of Dryocosmus cynipid gallwasps are now known to induce galls on Chrysolepis in California and Oregon. Two new species, Dryocosmus demartinii Melika, Nicholls & Stone and Dryocosmus juliae Melika, Nicholls & Stone are described. Males of the sexual generation of D. rileypokei plus adults of the asexual generation of this species are both described for the first time. A detailed description of D. castanopsidis is given for the first time. In addition to descriptions we provide diagnoses and information on biology and host associations for all four species. All the newly described taxa are supported by morphological and molecular data.
First record of the genus Eleazara Distant (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae, Ledrinae) in Malaysia, with description of a new species
Authors: HUANG WEIJIAN , ZHANG YALIN
Published: December 2018

The genus Eleazara Distant is reported from Malaysia for the first time based on one new species, E. viraktamathi sp. nov. This new species is described and illustrated. A checklist and key to the known species of Eleazara are provided.
Evaluation of Variance Inflation Factors in Regression Models Using Latent Variable Modeling Methods
Authors: Marcoulides Katerina M. , Raykov Tenko
Published: December 2018

A procedure that can be used to evaluate the variance inflation factors and tolerance indices in linear regression models is discussed. The method permits both point and interval estimation of these factors and indices associated with explanatory variables considered for inclusion in a regression model. The approach makes use of popular latent variable modeling software to obtain these point and interval estimates. The procedure allows more informed evaluation of these quantities when addressing multicollinearity-related issues in empirical research using regression models. The method is illustrated on an empirical example using the popular software M plus. Results of a simulation study investigating the capabilities of the procedure are also presented.
Community-based participatory approach to identify factors affecting diet following migration from Africa: The Hawaash study
Authors: Anderson Cheryl AM , Murray Kate E , Abdi Sahra , Hurst Samantha , Sheik-Mohamed Amina , Begud Bethlehem , Marcus Bess , Nebeker Camille , Sanchez-Flack Jennifer C , Bolling Khalisa
Published: December 2018

Introduction:

African women who migrate to the USA have a rich tradition of using herbs and spices to promote health. We conducted formative research on nutritional practices among East and North African women in the USA, focusing on whether traditional herbs and spices could support adherence to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Methods:

In all, 48 adult African women living in San Diego, California participated in focus groups in July 2015. Inclusion criteria were 18 years or older, and able to answer focus group questions in one of five languages: Somali, Arabic, Amharic, Swahili or English.

Results:

Participants identified 62 unique spices and herbs that are traditionally used in meal preparation for flavour and health benefits. Participants also reported awareness that nutrients, foods, food groups and approaches to growing and preparing foods are important considerations for healthy diet. Barriers to healthy eating included costs, constraints around growing food in a different soil and climate than Africa, family size and the widespread availability of fast food. Groups identified opportunities for collaborations with researchers through educational programmes, and recommended seed and recipe exchanges that promote healthy eating across culturally heterogeneous African communities.

Conclusion:

A culturally informed behavioural intervention focused on spices and herbs would be feasible and accepted by African women in San Diego. This intervention may support adherence to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans during the nutrition transition and broader dissemination of practices that promote health across heterogeneous communities of Africans living in the USA.