bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Comparison of Real-Time Yard Crane Dispatching Strategies at Nontransshipment Container Terminals
Authors: Yu Xuhui , Tang Guolei , Guo Zijian , Song Xiangqun , Yu Jingjing
Published: April 2018

Yard crane operations are often a bottleneck at a container terminal. This paper aims to investigate the effects of various real-time yard crane dispatching strategies on operational cost and gross crane rate (GCR) for nontransshipment container terminals. A general cost estimation model is introduced to incorporate the detailed costs incurred during container handling process within terminal area. The formulas of container handling related parameters are mathematically derived to validate the simulation model. Results reveal that the common nearest truck first served strategy yields the lowest operational cost but the lowest GCR. On the other hand, earliest YT strategy achieves the highest GCR at the expense of higher operational cost with more vessel calls, while nearest YT strategy produces the highest GCR and is the second economical with fewer vessel calls. Under any of the proposed yard crane dispatching strategies, the strategy that separately stacks import and export containers into different blocks outperforms the scattered stacking strategy in terms of GCR, although no distinct cost advantage is obtained. The results provide fundamental insights into the connection between real-time yard crane dispatching strategies and operational performance at manually controlled nontransshipment container terminals.
Adsorptive Removal of Hexavalent Chromium by Diphenylcarbazide-GraftedMacadamiaNutshell Powder
Authors: Maremeni Londolani C. , Modise Sekomeng J. , Mtunzi Fanyana M. , Klink Michael J. , Pakade Vusumzi E.
Published: April 2018

Macadamianutshell powder oxidized by hydrogen peroxide solutions (MHP) was functionalized by immobilizing 1,5′-diphenylcarbazide (DPC) on its surface. The effectiveness of grafting was confirmed by the Fourier transform infrared spectrum due to the presence of NH and C=C stretches at 3361, 1591, and 1486 cm−1, respectively, on the grafted material which were absent in the nongrafted material. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that the presence of DPC on the surface ofMacadamiashells lowered the thermal stability from 300°C to about 180°C owing to the volatile nature of DPC. Surface roughness as a result of grafting was appreciated on the scanning electron microscopy images. Parameters influencing the adsorptive removal of Cr(VI) were examined and found to be optimal at pH 2, 120 min, 150 mg/L, and 2.5 g/L. Grafting MHP with DPC leads to an increase in the Langmuir monolayer capacity from 37.74 to 72.12 mg/g. Grafting MHP with DPC produced adsorbent with improved removal efficiency for Cr(VI).
Field Equations for Lovelock Gravity: An Alternative Route
Authors: Chakraborty Sumanta
Published: April 2018

We present an alternative derivation of the gravitational field equations for Lovelock gravity starting from Newton’s law, which is closer in spirit to the thermodynamic description of gravity. As a warm up exercise, we have explicitly demonstrated that, projecting the Riemann curvature tensor appropriately and taking a cue from Poisson’s equation, Einstein’s equations immediately follow. The above derivation naturally generalizes to Lovelock gravity theories where an appropriate curvature tensor satisfying the symmetries as well as the Bianchi derivative properties of the Riemann tensor has to be used. Interestingly, in the above derivation, the thermodynamic route to gravitational field equations, suited for null hypersurfaces, emerges quiet naturally.
Combined Use of Mathematical Optimization and Design of Experiments for the Maximization of Profit in a Four‐Echelon Supply Chain
Authors: Olivares Vera Daniel Arturo , Olivares-Benitez Elias , Puente Rivera Eleazar , López-Campos Mónica , Miranda Pablo A.
Published: April 2018

This paper develops a location‐allocation model to optimize a four‐echelon supply chain network, addressing manufacturing and distribution centers location, supplier selection and flow allocation for raw materials from suppliers to manufacturers, and finished products for end customers, while searching for system profit maximization. A fractional‐factorial design of experiments is performed to analyze the effects of capacity, quality, delivery time, and interest rate on profit and system performance. The model is formulated as a mixed‐integer linear programming problem and solved by using well‐known commercial software. The usage of factorial experiments combined with mathematical optimization is a novel approach to address supply chain network design problems. The application of the proposed model to a case study shows that this combination of techniques yields satisfying results in terms of both its behavior and the obtained managerial insights. An ANOVA analysis is executed to quantify the effects of each factor and their interactions. In the analyzed case study, the transportation cost is the most relevant cost component, and the most relevant opportunity for profit improvement is found in the factor of quality. The proposed combination of methods can be adapted to different problems and industries.
Determination of Processed Salmon Components Sticking to Polyethylene Terephthalate Coatings of Containers by FT-IR and Raman Vibrational Spectroscopy
Authors: Zumelzu E. , Sanz A. , Medina J. , Rull F.
Published: April 2018

Earlier studies determined that portions of salmon were strongly sticking to the polymer coating of the container walls after emptying the cans. In this sense, this work performed high- and low-frequency spectral characterizations of fresh salmon muscle, fat, and skin by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and Raman spectroscopy analyses to elucidate which components were effectively sticking to the underlying coating. The spectral analyses evidenced that the bands of skin and muscle were clearly distinctive. However, less perceptible contrasts were observed between fat and muscle until band 1700 cm−1, but above this limit, the minor spectral changes detected were sufficient to characterize both salmon components. The new spectral bands for skin occurred at 1030, 1202, and 1336 cm−1. Differences in intensity were also observed for band ν(C=O) at 1744 cm−1, even though it appeared in all components of the salmon. The bands for the ν(C–H) and ν(O–H) vibrations in the high-frequency region were the same, but the intensities and profiles were different. The similarities between the spectra of fresh salmon muscle and residues sticking to the polymer layers were substantial, corroborating that this is in fact the main component sticking to the polymer surface coating of industrial food cans.
Synergistic Effects of Dantrolene and Nimodipine on the Phenylephrine-Induced Contraction and ACh-Induced Relaxation in Aortic Rings from Diabetic Rats
Authors: Crespo Maria J. , Roman Marie , Matias Jonathan , Morales Myrna , Torres Hector , Quidgley Jose
Published: April 2018

Diabetics have a higher risk of developing cerebral vasospasms (CVSP) than nondiabetics. The addition of the ryanodine receptor (RyR) blocker dantrolene to standard therapies reduces vasospasms in nondiabetics. Whether diabetics with CVSP also benefit from this drug, however, is unknown. We evaluated the effects of a 30 min incubation with dantrolene (50 μM), nimodipine (50 nM), and both drugs in combination, on phenylephrine- (PHE-) induced contraction and on acetylcholine- (ACh-) induced relaxation in aortic rings from streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats. Age-matched, nondiabetic rats served as controls. The oxidative stress markers malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4-hydroxyalkenal (4-HAE) were also evaluated in the presence and absence of dantrolene and nimodipine. The combination of these two drugs acted synergistically to reduce the PHE-induced contraction by 80% in both diabetics and controls. In contrast, it increased theEmaxvalue for ACh-induced relaxation (from 56.46 ± 5.14% to 96.21 ± 7.50%;n=6,P<0.05), and it decreased MDA + 4-HAE values in diabetic rats only. These results suggest that the combination of dantrolene and nimodipine benefits both diabetics and nondiabetics by decreasing arterial tone synergistically.
Long-Term Outcome of Endoscopic Balloon Dilatation for Strictures in Patients with Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Taida Takashi , Nakagawa Tomoo , Ohta Yuki , Hamanaka Shinsaku , Okimoto Kenichiro , Saito Keiko , Maruoka Daisuke , Matsumura Tomoaki , Arai Makoto , Katsuno Tatsuro , Kato Naoya
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD) is an alternative to surgery for strictures in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD). The aim of the present study was to clarify the efficacy and safety of EBD for strictures in patients with CD. Methods: Twenty-six patients with CD who underwent EBD for strictures from August 2008 to November 2015 were followed up after dilatation. Short-term success was defined as the disappearance of obstructive symptoms after technically adequate dilatation was achieved. The short-term success rate of EBD, safety profile of EBD, and cumulative surgery-free and redilatation-free rates were analyzed. Results: Sixty-five EBDs were performed for CD patients in the follow-up period. The short-term success rate was 100% (26/26), and no complications were encountered during this study. Two (7.7%) patients underwent surgery during the observation period. The cumulative surgery-free rate after the initial EBD was 90.3% at both 2 and 3 years. The cumulative redilatation-free rate after the initial EBD was 52.1% at 2 years and 39.1% at 3 years. Conclusion: EBD for strictures secondary to CD provides not only short-term success but also long-term efficacy. Although a high redilatation rate is one of the clinical problems of this procedure, EBD is an effective therapy for avoiding intestinal recession in CD ­stricture.
Significance of FDG-PET Hypermetabolism in Children with Intractable Focal Epilepsy
Authors: Schur Solon , Allen Victoria , White Andrew , Mirsky David , Stence Nicholas , O’Neill Brent , Handler Michael , Dudley Roy , Laoprasert Pramote
Published: April 2018

Background: Interictal 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission topography (FDG-PET) hypometabolism is routinely used in the presurgical workup of children with medically intractable epilepsy (MIE). FDG-PET hypermetabolism, however, is rarely seen, and the significance of this finding in the epilepsy workup is not well established. Methods: We performed a retrospective study of patients who underwent FDG-PET during the presurgical workup of MIE over a 4-year period, between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2013, at the Children’s Hospital Colorado, CO, USA. Results: Focal FDG-PET hypermetabolism was identified in 7 (2.2%) of 317 patients. The median age was 124 months, all cases with catastrophic epilepsy. Surface electroencephalography (EEG) performed concomitantly with FDG injections revealed ictal EEG discharges in 2 patients, frequent interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) in 3, occasional IEDs in 1, and no IEDs in 1. All 7 patients underwent functional hemispherectomies. Histopathology revealed type 1 focal cortical dysplasia in all patients. Six (86%) were completely seizure-free (Engel class I) and 1 had extremely infrequent seizures (Engel class II) (mean follow-up, 47.4 months). Conclusion: While a rare finding, interictal PET hypermetabolism does occur, may help identify epileptogenic zones, and assessment to reveal it should be made by concomitant use of surface EEG during PET scans.
Endoscopic Ultrasound Guided Choledocho-Enterostomy by Using Lumen Apposing Metal Stent in Patients with Failed Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: A Literature Review
Authors: Jain Deepanshu , Shah Manan , Patel Upen , Sharma Abhinav , Singhal Shashideep
Published: April 2018

Background: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has been the cornerstone in the management of malignant jaundice to provide symptomatic relief and/or to allow chemotherapy. Difficult biliary cannulation or the presence of concomitant duodenal obstruction may lead to its failure. Method: An extensive English literature search was done via PubMed and Google Scholar to identify 13 peer-reviewed original articles. Results: Of 92 patients, 98.9% (91/92) successfully underwent EUS-guided biliary drainage by placement of a lumen-apposing metal stent (LAMS) across extrahepatic biliary tree and small bowel. Although technically challenging, a similar technical success was noted for patients with limited dilation of extrahepatic biliary tree (less than 1 cm) and altered gastrointestinal anatomy (Roux-en-Y, Whipple, or Billroth II). Of 91 patients, 98.9% (90/91) had clinical success. Procedure complications included perforation (2/92; 2.2%) and bleeding (1/92; 1.1%). Stent complications included obstruction (7/91; 7.7%), and migration (1/91; 1.1%) with all responding to endoscopic debridement of food or tumor, placement of plastic pigtail stent through the LAMS, or replacement with a new stent. No procedure-related mortality was noted. Conclusion: In the hands of an expert, EUS-guided biliary drainage with the use of LAMS is an efficacious and safe option for patients with distal malignant biliary stricture, not amenable to ERCP.
pH-neutrale Pflegeprodukte - ein wichtiger Baustein zur Aufrechterhaltung der Hauthomöostase?
Authors: Hedtrich Sarah
Published: April 2018

Background: Human skin surface has a physiologically acidic pH (pHss). In cases of increased pHss, the acidity of the skin can be restored by topical formulations. We tested a pH 5 oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion for pHss regeneration and stabilization. Methods: We performed 2 experiments with 10 female study subjects in each. In both experiments, 2D imaging with luminescent sensor foils was used to determine pHss. Alkalization was reached by washing the volar forearm with a soap bar and warm running tap water for 20 min. Experiment 1: after defining the baseline pHss, we alkalized the respective area and measured pHss over a duration of 5 h, while applying emulsion every hour. Experiment 2: study subjects used the emulsion twice daily for 1 week. Then, pHss was measured before and after 5 min of washing a treated and an untreated area on the volar forearm. Results: (1) 5 h after alkalization, the treated arm showed a significantly lower pHss than the untreated one (5.87 ± 0.03 vs. 6.05 ± 0.03); (2) after washing, the treated area had a significantly lower pHss than controls (6.13 ± 0.03 vs. 6.27 ± 0.05). Conclusions: The tested pH 5 O/W emulsion seems to improve regeneration and stabilization of pHss.
Diagnostic Investigations of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Who and When to Refer and for What Test
Authors: Kandulski Arne , Moleda Lukas , Müller-Schilling Martina
Published: April 2018

Background: Due to the high prevalence and incidence of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the diagnostic workup of patients with symptoms of GERD needs to be balanced between empiric antisecretory therapy and further functional assessment including endoscopy and reflux monitoring. Methods: This article is based on a literature review (PubMed, Medline) using the terms ‘gastroesophageal reflux disease' or ‘GERD' and ‘diagnosis', ‘therapy', or ‘PPI' with special and critical analysis of the current ‘Porto' consensus report. Results and Conclusions: Further diagnostics are mandatory in case of alarm symptoms as well as atypical or persistent symptoms under adequate therapy with proton pump inhibitors (PPI). In general, the clinical situation needs to be clarified before sending the patients for reflux monitoring. The question is not only when and whom to test but also how to test: on or off PPI therapy, pH-metry, or combined pH-impedance analysis. These questions have been defined in a recent consensus report of an international panel of experts and are further discussed in this article.
Preoperative Controlling Nutritional Status Score Predicts Mortality after Hepatectomy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Takagi Kosei , Umeda Yuzo , Yoshida Ryuichi , Nobuoka Daisuke , Kuise Takashi , Fushimi Takuro , Fujiwara Toshiyoshi , Yagi Takahito
Published: April 2018

Background: Preoperative nutritional status is reportedly associated with postoperative outcomes in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. This study aimed to investigate the significance of the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score and the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) as predictors of postoperative outcomes. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed data from 331 patients who underwent hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma between January 2007 and December 2015. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on their CONUT score and the PNI. We evaluated the effect of the CONUT score and PNI on perioperative outcomes. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of in-hospital mortality after hepatectomy. ­Results: The high CONUT group had a significantly higher ­incidence of 30-day mortality (p < 0.001), in-hospital mortality (p = 0.002), ascites (p = 0.006), liver failure (p = 0.02), sepsis (p = 0.01), and enteritis (p < 0.001). The low PNI group was also significantly associated with 30-day mortality (p < 0.001), in-hospital mortality (p = 0.003), liver failure (p < 0.001), sepsis (p = 0.02), enteritis (p = 0.02), and hospital stay (p = 0.01). In multivariate analyses, a high CONUT score was an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality after hepatectomy (hazard ratio [HR] 9.41, p = 0.038), but the PNI was not (HR 5.86, p = 0.08). Conclusions: Preoperative assessment of the CONUT score is helpful for evaluating patients’ nutritional status and mortality risk after liver surgery.
Neurobiological Mechanisms Mediating Emotion Dysregulation as Targets of Change in Borderline Personality Disorder
Authors: Herpertz Sabine C. , Schneider Isabella , Schmahl Christian , Bertsch Katja
Published: April 2018

Emotion dysregulation is a hallmark of borderline personality disorder (BPD). Most interventions for patients with BPD, therefore, aim at the improvement of emotion regulation. In the current paper, we provide an overview of studies investigating the effects of psychotherapeutic or pharmacological interventions on neurobiological correlates of various aspects of emotion regulation. In fact, studies suggest that the prefrontal-limbic circuit may play a major role in mediating effects of clinically efficacious psychotherapeutic treatments, i.e., they lead to clinical improvement via modulating the function and structure of the amygdala, the insula, and the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, as well as prefrontal areas involved in the cognitive regulation of emotions, and enhancing the coupling of limbic and prefrontal areas. Oxytocin as a promising pharmacological approach to emotion dysregulation in BPD was shown to dampen amygdala activity in response to emotional stimuli. Understanding the brain mechanisms that mediate treatment effects will harness further development of targeted mechanism-based interventions for patients with BPD.
Prominent Hypointense Vessel Sign on Susceptibility-Weighted Imaging Is Associated with Clinical Outcome in Acute Ischaemic Stroke
Authors: Wang Yiqi , Shi Tianming , Chen Bo , Lin Gaoping , Xu Yuyun , Geng Yu
Published: April 2018

Background: Prominent hypointense vessel sign (PHVS) is visualized on susceptibility weighted-imaging (SWI) in acute ischaemic stroke (AIS). We aim to test if PHVS is associated with stroke outcome. Methods: Forty patients with acute middle cerebral artery occlusion were recruited. The presence of PHVS, cortical vessel sign (CVS), brush sign (BS) and susceptibility-diffuse weighted imaging mismatch (S-D mismatch) and Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) on SWI were compared between the good outcome group (90-day modified Rankin scale [mRS] of 0–2) and the poor outcome group (mRS of 3–6). The receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) were used to evaluate the predictive ability to poor outcome of above imaging characteristics. Results: The presence of PHVS, CVS, BS and S-D mismatch was significantly higher in the poor outcome group (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.013, p = 0.014, respectively). SWI-ASPECTS was significantly lower in the poor outcome group (p = 0.002). Regression analysis revealed SWI-ASPECTS; the presence of PHVS and CVS were independently associated with poor outcome (OR 0.347, p = 0.012; OR 55.77, p = 0.004; OR 58.05, p = 0.005). ROC analysis showed that PHVS had the highest predictive value for poor outcome (AUC 0.783). Conclusions: The presence of PHVS, CVS and SWI-ASPECTS were associated with poor outcome in AIS. The presence of PHVS was the most effective radiographic marker for predicting outcome.
Paricalcitol and Peritoneal Protein Loss in Peritoneal Dialysis: A Double-Center Study
Authors: Jerónimo Teresa , Malho Guedes Anabela , del Peso Gloria , Silva Ana Paula , Selgas Rafael , Bajo Maria Auxiliadora , Neves Pedro Leão
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Peritoneal protein loss (PPL) is associated with cardiovascular disease and mortality in peritoneal dialysis (PD). Controversial results have been published about the effect of paricalcitol in PPL among PD patients. This study intends to analyze the relationship between paricalcitol and PPL in PD. Methods: In a retrospective study, prevalent PD patients were divided into 2 groups: “with paricalcitol” and “without paricalcitol”. X2-test, Student’s t test, Pearson correlation coefficient and Logistic Regression analysis were applied. Results: Eighty-two patients were included. PPL was lower among patients medicated with paricalcitol (5.17 ± 1.71 vs. 6.79 ± 2.10 g/24 h, p = 0.0001). In multivariate analysis, paricalcitol and dialysate/plasma ratio of creatinine (D/P creatinine) were independently related to PPL (OR 4.270 [1.437–12.684], p = 0.009 and OR 0.205 [0.064–0.659], p = 0.008, respectively), adjusted for diabetes. Conclusion: Paricalcitol and D/P creatinine were independently related to PPL. Paricalcitol may have an effect on PPL in PD patients
Mindfulness in Follow-Up Care After Breast Cancer: Can It Prevent Recurrence
Authors: Modica Carola , Hoenig Klaus
Published: April 2018

This review focuses on the question whether mindfulness in follow-up care can contribute to the prevention of breast cancer (BC) recurrence. We first introduce behavioral risk and protective factors in follow-up care by presenting current research outcomes modulating individual risk for recurrence. We argue that although increased self-awareness is undoubtedly beneficial for BC survivors, it may also trigger adverse effects in vulnerable individuals such as overarousal and impaired emotional regulation. Indeed, research shows that many BC survivors are often confronted with clinical levels of fear of recurrence and anxiety and depressive symptoms. Research on awareness about the impact of behavior on health and fear of recurrence also offers interesting insights which can help to better understand non-compliant responses of BC survivors to medical recommendations regarding lifestyle or screening in follow-up care. Given the high rate of clinically relevant symptoms such as fear of recurrence and anxiety that may be related to dysfunctional levels of self-monitoring, we review the effects of a therapeutic intervention called Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) that appears promising in reintegrating self-observation with patient well-being.
Bevacizumab Improves Achilles Tendon Repair in a Rat Model
Authors: Tempfer Herbert , Kaser-Eichberger Alexandra , Lehner Christine , Gehwolf Renate , Korntner Stefanie , Kunkel Nadja , Wagner Andrea , Gruetz Moritz , Heindl Ludwig M. , Schroedl Falk , Traweger Andreas
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Effective wound-healing generally requires efficient re-vascularization after injury, ensuring sufficient supply with oxygen, nutrients, and various cell populations. While this applies to most tissues, tendons are mostly avascular in nature and harbor relatively few cells, probably contributing to their poor regenerative capacity. Considering the minimal vascularization of healthy tendons, we hypothesize that controlling angiogenesis in early tendon healing is beneficial for repair tissue quality and function. Methods: To address this hypothesis, Bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody blocking VEGF-A signaling, was locally injected into the defect area of a complete tenotomy in rat Achilles tendon. At 28 days post-surgery, the defect region was investigated using immunohistochemistry against vascular and lymphatic epitopes. Polarization microscopy and biomechanical testing was used to determine tendon integrity and gait analysis for functional testing in treated vs non-treated animals. Results: Angiogenesis was found to be significantly reduced in the Bevacizumab treated repair tissue, accompanied by significantly reduced cross sectional area, improved matrix organization, increased stiffness and Young’s modulus, maximum load and stress. Further, we observed an improved gait pattern when compared to the vehicle injected control group. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study we propose that reducing angiogenesis after tendon injury can improve tendon repair, potentially representing a novel treatment-option.
CRISPR-Cas9-Mediated Silencing of CD44 in Human Highly Metastatic Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Liu Tang , Yan Zuyun , Liu Yong , Choy Edwin , Hornicek Francis J. , Mankin Henry , Duan Zhenfeng
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Metastasis is the major cause of death in patients with osteosarcoma. There is an urgent need to identify molecular markers that promote metastasis. Cluster of differentiation 44 is a receptor for hyaluronic acid (HA) and HA-binding has been proven to participate in various biological tumor activities, including tumor progression and metastasis. Methods: We performed a meta-analysis to investigate the relationship between CD44 expression, survival, and metastasis in patients with osteosarcoma. We then utilized the CRISPR-Cas9 system to specifically silence CD44 in highly metastatic human osteosarcoma cells (MNNG/HOS and 143B) and further determined the functional effects of CD44 knockout in these cells. Results: The meta-analysis demonstrated that a high level of CD44 may predict poor survival and higher potential of metastasis in patients with osteosarcoma. The expression of CD44 in highly metastatic human osteosarcoma cell lines was efficiently blocked by CRISPR-Cas9. When CD44 was silenced, the proliferation and spheroid formation of these osteosarcoma cells was inhibited under 3-D culture conditions. Furthermore, the migratory and invasive functions were also impaired in these highly metastatic osteosarcoma cells. Conclusion: These results suggest that developing new strategies to target CD44 in osteosarcoma may prevent metastasis and improve the clinical outcome of osteosarcoma patients.
Induction of Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocyte Toxicity by Supernatant of Long Term-Stored Red Blood Cells in Vitro
Authors: Fan Fengyan , Yu Yang , Sun Liping , Wang Shufang , Wang Rui , Zhang Leiying , Li Cuiying , Wang Deqing
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Preserved red blood cells (RBCs) in vitro undergo a series of morphological, functional and metabolic changes during storage. RBC metabolites accumulate over time during storage, the toxicity of the supernatants of RBCs (SSRBCs) on tissue cells is largely unknown. Here, we aimed to study cardiomyocyte toxicity by supernatant of long term-stored RBCs in vitro and to discover elements involved in the mechanism. Methods: Using human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPS-CMs) and real-time cell analyzing (RTCA), we analyzed the cardiotoxicity of d0, d14 and d35 SSRBCs. To analyze the cardiotoxicity of potassium (K) and lactic acid (LA) in SSRBCs, solutions containing the same concentrations of K and LA were respectively prepared and co-cultured with hiPS-CMs. Immunofluorescence and Gene Expression Array of hiPS-CMs were performed to evaluate the effects of d35 K and d35 SSRBCs. Results: The beating of hiPS-CM was stopped by d14, d35 SSRBCs, or d35 K solution. Beating resumed within 48 hours in the presence of d14 SSRBC or d35 K but not d35 SSRBC; d0, d14 and d35 LA solution had no effect on beating patterns. At 48h after treatment, the immunofluorescence results showed that the integrity of the filament and sarcomere were intact. Gene Expression Array results found 14 differentially expressed genes which were likely to play an important role in the cytotoxic effect. Conclusion: Our results demonstrated cardiomyocyte toxicity by long term-stored SSRBCs in vitro. Besides high K-induced cardiotoxicity, there must be other unknown components in long term-stored SSRBCs that are cytotoxic to hiPS-CMs.
Comparison of Concanavalin a-Induced Murine Autoimmune Hepatitis Models
Authors: Ye Tinghong , Wang Tingting , Yang Xiaoxue , Fan Xiaoli , Wen Maoyao , Shen Yi , Xi Xiaotan , Men Ruoting , Yang Li
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic necroinflammatory disease of the liver whose pathogenic mechanisms have not yet been elucidated. Moreover, the current treatment used for the vast majority of AIH patients is largely dependent on immunosuppressant administration and liver transplantation. However, research on the pathogenesis of AIH and effective new treatments for AIH have been hampered by a lack of animal models that accurately reproduce the human condition. Methods: AIH models created by concanavalin A (ConA) injections at different times and doses. The levels of ALT, AST, LDH and inflammatory cytokines were examined at various times after 20 mg/kg ConA was administered by ELISA using commercially available kits. Moreover, liver pathological changes were observed by flow cytometry (FCM) and H&E staining. Results: Our experiments demonstrated that the levels of ALT, AST, LDH and several inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-6, were higher in the 20 mg/kg 12 h ConA group than in the other groups. Importantly, the numbers of activated CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes in the blood, spleen and liver were calculated. These results showed that ConA (20 mg/kg for 12 h)-induced hepatitis was similar to that in clinical AIH patients. Furthermore, we found that the number of MDSCs in the blood was significantly increased in the ConA (20 mg/kg for 12 h) group compared with controls. Our findings indicated that ConA (20 mg/kg for 12 h)-induced hepatitis could be used as an experimental murine model that mirrors most of the pathogenic properties of human type I AIH. Conclusion: This model [ConA (20 mg/kg for 12 h)] provides a valuable tool for studying AIH immunopathogenesis and rapidly assessing novel therapeutic approaches.
ADCY9 (Adenylate Cyclase Type 9) Inactivation Protects From Atherosclerosis Only in the Absence of CETP (Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein)
Authors: Rautureau Yohann , Deschambault Vanessa , Higgins Marie-Ève , Rivas Daniel , Mecteau Mélanie , Geoffroy Pascale , Miquel Géraldine , Uy Kurunradeth , Sanchez Rocio , Lavoie Véronique , Brand Geneviève , Nault Audrey , Williams Pierre-Marc , Suarez Maria Laura , Merlet Nolwenn , Lapointe Line , Duquette Natacha , Gillis Marc-Antoine , Samami Samaneh , Mayer Gaétan , Pouliot Philippe , Raignault Adeline , Maafi Foued , Brodeur Mathieu R. , Levesque Sylvie , Guertin Marie-Claude , Dubé Marie-Pierre , Thorin Éric , Rhainds David , Rhéaume Éric , Tardif Jean-Claude
Published: April 2018

Background:

Pharmacogenomic studies have shown that
ADCY9
genotype determines the effects of the CETP (cholesteryl ester transfer protein) inhibitor dalcetrapib on cardiovascular events and atherosclerosis imaging. The underlying mechanisms responsible for the interactions between
ADCY9
and CETP activity have not yet been determined.

Methods:

Adcy9
-inactivated (
Adcy9
Gt/Gt
) and wild-type (WT) mice, that were or not transgenic for the
CETP
gene (CETPtg
Adcy9
Gt/Gt
and CETPtg
Adcy9
WT
), were submitted to an atherogenic protocol (injection of an AAV8 [adeno-associated virus serotype 8] expressing a PCSK9 [proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9] gain-of-function variant and 0.75% cholesterol diet for 16 weeks). Atherosclerosis, vasorelaxation, telemetry, and adipose tissue magnetic resonance imaging were evaluated.

Results:

Adcy9
Gt/Gt
mice had a 65% reduction in aortic atherosclerosis compared to WT (
P
<0.01). CD68 (cluster of differentiation 68)-positive macrophage accumulation and proliferation in plaques were reduced in
Adcy9
Gt/Gt
mice compared to WT animals (
P
<0.05 for both). Femoral artery endothelial-dependent vasorelaxation was improved in
Adcy9
Gt/Gt
mice (versus WT,
P
<0.01). Selective pharmacological blockade showed that the nitric oxide, cyclooxygenase, and endothelial-dependent hyperpolarization pathways were all responsible for the improvement of vasodilatation in
Adcy9
Gt/Gt
(
P
<0.01 for all). Aortic endothelium from
Adcy9
Gt/Gt
mice allowed significantly less adhesion of splenocytes compared to WT (
P
<0.05).
Adcy9
Gt/Gt
mice gained more weight than WT with the atherogenic diet; this was associated with an increase in whole body adipose tissue volume (
P
<0.01 for both). Feed efficiency was increased in
Adcy9
Gt/Gt
compared to WT mice (
P
<0.01), which was accompanied by prolonged cardiac RR interval (
P
<0.05) and improved nocturnal heart rate variability (
P
=0.0572).
Adcy9
inactivation–induced effects on atherosclerosis, endothelial function, weight gain, adipose tissue volume, and feed efficiency were lost in CETPtg
Adcy9
Gt/Gt
mice (
P
>0.05 versus CETPtg
Adcy9
WT
).

Conclusions:

Adcy9
inactivation protects against atherosclerosis, but only in the absence of CETP activity. This atheroprotection may be explained by decreased macrophage accumulation and proliferation in the arterial wall, and improved endothelial function and autonomic tone.
Improving Microcirculatory Reperfusion Reduces Parenchymal Oxygen Radical Formation and Provides Neuroprotection
Authors: Taskiran-Sag Aslihan , Yemisci Muge , Gursoy-Ozdemir Yasemin , Erdener Sefik Evren , Karatas Hulya , Yuce Deniz , Dalkara Turgay
Published: April 2018

Background and Purpose—

Reperfusion is the most significant determinant of good outcome after ischemic stroke. However, complete reperfusion often cannot be achieved, despite satisfactory recanalization. We hypothesized that microvascular protection was essential for achieving effective reperfusion and, hence, neuroprotection. To test this hypothesis, we have developed an in vivo model to differentially monitor parenchymal and vascular reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. By comparing the ROS-suppressing effect of N-tert-butyl-α-phenylnitrone (PBN) with its blood–brain barrier impermeable analog 2-sulfo-phenyl-N-tert-butylnitrone (S-PBN), we assessed the impact of vascular ROS suppression alone on reperfusion and stroke outcome after recanalization.

Methods—

The distal middle cerebral artery was occluded for 1 hour by compressing with a micropipette and then recanalized (n=60 Swiss mice). ROS formation was monitored for 1 hour after recanalization by intravital fluorescence microscopy in pial vasculature and cortical parenchyma with topically applied hydroethidine through a cranial window. PBN (100 mg/kg) or S-PBN (156 mg/kg) was administered shortly before recanalization, and suppression of the vascular and parenchymal hydroethidine fluorescence was examined (n=22). Microcirculatory patency, reperfusion, ischemic tissue size, and neurological outcome were also assessed in a separate group of mice 1 to 72 hours after recanalization (n=30).

Results—

PBN and S-PBN completely suppressed the reperfusion-induced increase in ROS signal within vasculature. PBN readily suppressed ROS produced in parenchyma by 88%. S-PBN also suppressed the parenchymal ROS by 64% but starting 40 minutes later. Intriguingly, PBN and S-PBN comparably reduced the size of ischemic area by 65% and 48% (
P
>0.05), respectively. S-PBN restored the microvascular patency and perfusion after recanalization, suggesting that its delayed parenchymal antioxidant effect could be secondary to improved microcirculatory reperfusion.

Conclusions—

Promoting microvascular reperfusion by protecting vasculature can secondarily reduce parenchymal ROS formation and provide neuroprotection. The model presented can be used to directly assess pharmacological end points postulated in brain parenchyma and vasculature in vivo.
Same Table, Different Menus? A Comparison of UN and EU Mediation Practice in the Kosovo-Serbia Conflict
Authors: Bergmann Julian
Published: April 2018

This article comparesUNandEUmediation practice in the Kosovo-Serbia conflict. It proposes a conceptual framework to analyze mediation effectiveness and its conditions and applies it to theUN-led Kosovo Status Talks in Vienna (2006–2007) and the ongoingEU-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina (since 2011). TheEU’s relatively high degree of effectiveness compared to theUNeffort can be partly explained by the application of a strategy of manipulation, drawing on theEU’s strong leverage vis-à-vis both sides; partly by pointing to the conflict context which has been more favorable to mediation since 2011. At the same time, the analysis reveals thatEUmediation has not led to any changes concerning Serbia’s stance toward the recognition of Kosovo’s independence. The continuing non-resolution of the conflict demonstrates the limits of theEU’s manipulative mediation approach and points to a substantial dilemma ofEUmediation.
Taxonomic identity of the ghost ant, Tapinoma melanocephalum (Fabricius, 1793) (Formicidae: Dolichoderinae)
Authors: GUERRERO ROBERTO J.
Published: April 2018

This paper revises the taxonomy of Tapinoma melanocephalum (Fabricius, 1793) as follows: T. melanocephalum = Tapinoma luffae (Kuriam, 1955) syn. nov., = Tapinoma melanocephalum coronatum Forel, 1908 syn. nov., = Tapinoma melanocephalum malesianum Forel, 1913 syn. nov. A neotype of Tapinoma melanocephalum (Fabricius, 1793) is designed here. Lectotypes of Tapinoma melanocephalum coronatum Forel, 1908 and T. melanocephalum malesianum Forel, 1913 are designated. Formica wallacei is proposed as a replacement name for Formica familiaris (= T. melanocephalum senior synonym). The worker, queen and male are redescribed and diagnosed. The morphological variability of populations is discussed. All castes are included in full color images.
Evaluating CMIP5 Model Agreement for Multiple Drought Metrics
Authors: Ukkola A. M. , Pitman A. J. , De Kauwe M. G. , Abramowitz G. , Herger N. , Evans J. P. , Decker M.
Published: April 2018

Global climate models play an important role in quantifying past and projecting future changes in drought. Previous studies have pointed to shortcomings in these models for simulating droughts, but systematic evaluation of their level of agreement has been limited. Here, historical simulations (1950–2004) for 20 models from the latest Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) were analyzed for a variety of drought metrics and thresholds using a standardized drought index. Model agreement was investigated for different types of drought (precipitation, runoff, and soil moisture) and how this varied with drought severity and duration. At the global scale, climate models were shown to agree well on most precipitation drought metrics, but systematically underestimated precipitation drought intensity compared to observations. Conversely, simulated runoff and soil moisture droughts varied significantly across models, particularly for intensity. Differences in precipitation simulations were found to explain model differences in runoff and soil moisture drought metrics over some regions, but predominantly with respect to drought intensity. This suggests it is insufficient to evaluate models for precipitation droughts to increase confidence in model performance for other types of drought. This study shows large but metric-dependent discrepancies in CMIP5 for modeling different types of droughts that relate strongly to the component models (i.e., atmospheric or land surface scheme) used in the coupled modeling systems. Our results point to a need to consider multiple models in drought impact studies to account for high model uncertainties.
Polarity Variations of Internal Solitary Waves over the Continental Shelf of the Northern South China Sea: Impacts of Seasonal Stratification, Mesoscale Eddies, and Internal Tides
Authors: Zhang Xiaojiang , Huang Xiaodong , Zhang Zhiwei , Zhou Chun , Tian Jiwei , Zhao Wei
Published: April 2018

Spatiotemporal variations in internal solitary wave (ISW) polarity over the continental shelf of the northern South China Sea (SCS) were examined based on mooring-array observations from October 2013 to June 2014. Depression ISWs were observed at the easternmost mooring, where the water depth is 323 m. Then, they evolved into elevation ISWs at the westernmost mooring, with a depth of 149 m. At the central mooring, with a depth of 250 m, the ISWs generally appeared as depression waves in autumn and spring but were elevation waves in winter. Seasonal variations in stratification caused this seasonality in polarity. On the intraseasonal time scales, anticyclonic eddies can modulate ISW polarity at the central mooring by deepening the thermocline depth for periods of approximately 8 days. During some days in autumn and spring, depression ISWs and ISWs in the process of changing polarity from depression to elevation appeared at time intervals of 10–12 h because of the thermocline deepening caused by internal tides. Isotherm anomalies associated with eddies and internal tides have a more significant contribution to determining the polarity of ISWs than do the background currents. The observational results reported here highlight the impact of multiscale processes on the evolution of ISWs.
Money Doesn't Grow on Trees, but Forecasts Do: Forecasting Extreme Precipitation with Random Forests
Authors: Herman Gregory R. , Schumacher Russ S.
Published: April 2018

Approximately 11 years of reforecasts from NOAA’s Second-Generation Global Ensemble Forecast System Reforecast (GEFS/R) model are used to train a contiguous United States (CONUS)-wide gridded probabilistic prediction system for locally extreme precipitation. This system is developed primarily using the random forest (RF) algorithm. Locally extreme precipitation is quantified for 24-h precipitation accumulations in the framework of average recurrence intervals (ARIs), with two severity levels: 1- and 10-yr ARI exceedances. Forecasts are made from 0000 UTC forecast initializations for two 1200–1200 UTC periods: days 2 and 3, comprising, respectively, forecast hours 36–60 and 60–84. Separate models are trained for each of eight forecast regions and for each forecast lead time. GEFS/R predictors vary in space and time relative to the forecast point and include not only the quantitative precipitation forecast (QPF) output from the model, but also variables that characterize the meteorological regime, including winds, moisture, and instability. Numerous sensitivity experiments are performed to determine the effects of the inclusion or exclusion of different aspects of forecast information in the model predictors, the choice of statistical algorithm, and the effect of performing dimensionality reduction via principal component analysis as a preprocessing step. Overall, it is found that the machine learning (ML)-based forecasts add significant skill over exceedance forecasts produced from both the raw GEFS/R ensemble QPFs and from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts’ (ECMWF) global ensemble across almost all regions of the CONUS. ML-based forecasts are found to be underconfident, while raw ensemble forecasts are highly overconfident.
Wind Forecasts for Rocket and Balloon Launches at the Esrange Space Center Using the WRF Model
Authors: Fonseca Ricardo , Martín-Torres Javier , Andersson Kent
Published: April 2018

High-altitude balloons and rockets are regularly launched at the Esrange Space Center (ESC) in Kiruna, Sweden, with the aim of retrieving atmospheric data for meteorological and space studies in the Arctic region. Meteorological conditions, particularly wind direction and speed, play a critical role in the decision of whether to go ahead with or postpone a planned launch. Given the lack of high-resolution wind forecasts for this remote region, the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model is used to downscale short-term forecasts given by the Global Forecast System (GFS) for the ESC for six 5-day periods in the warm, cold, and transition seasons. Three planetary boundary layer (PBL) schemes are considered: the local Mellor–Yamada–Janjić (MYJ), the nonlocal Yonsei University (YSU), and the hybrid local–nonlocal Asymmetric Convective Model 2 (ACM2). The ACM2 scheme is found to provide the most skillful forecasts. An analysis of the WRF Model output against the launch criteria for two of the most commonly launched vehicles, the sounding rockets Veículo de Sondagem Booster-30 (VSB-30) and Improved Orion, reveals probability of detection (POD) values that always exceeds 60% with the false alarm rate (FAR) generally below 50%. It is concluded that the WRF Model, in its present configuration, can be used to generate useful 5-day wind forecasts for the launches of these two rockets. The conclusions reached here are applicable to similar sites in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
Reflections on Broadening Participation in STEM: What Do We Know? What Do We Need to Know? Where Do We Go From Here?
Authors: Leggon Cheryl B.
Published: April 2018

Over 50 years ago, concerns about the adequacy of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) talent in the United States were the catalyst to develop programs to ensure that the STEM workforce would be adequate to meet scientific challenges. To date, there have been considerable investments in these programs. To determine where we go from here requires appraising where we stand and reviewing how far we have come. This article presents reflections from my experiences conducting both research and evaluations on broadening participation in STEM in the United States.
Detecting Outliers in Electric Arc Furnace under the Condition of Unlabeled, Imbalanced, Non-stationary and Noisy Data
Authors: Wang Biao , Mao Zhizhong
Published: April 2018

The presence of outliers is the main reason leading to ineffectiveness of advanced data-driven control methods in electric arc furnace systems. This paper proposes a hybrid method dedicated to detecting outliers in electric arc furnace systems, where process data are characterized as unlabeled, imbalanced, non-stationary and noisy. First, the raw data are divided into certain number of clusters. Then, with each cluster, a one-class classifier can be trained. So with these well-trained sub-models, new test points can be investigated. Those points that are rejected by all sub-models will be labeled as outliers. With the combination of one-class classification and clustering technique, the intricate data in electric arc furnace can be processed effectively. In addition, the detector will be updated with a specific strategy to enhance its adaptiveness. A series of experiments are carried out, and comparative results have shown the effectiveness of our method.