bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using optically pumped magnetometers to measure magnetoencephalographic signals in the human cerebellum
Authors: Lin Chin‐Hsuan , Tierney Tim M. , Holmes Niall , Boto Elena , Leggett James , Bestmann Sven , Bowtell Richard , Brookes Matthew J. , Barnes Gareth R. , Miall R. Chris
Published: June 2019

Key points

The application of conventional cryogenic magnetoencephalography (MEG) to the study of cerebellar functions is highly limited because typical cryogenic sensor arrays are far away from the cerebellum and naturalistic movement is not allowed in the recording.

A new generation of MEG using optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs) that can be worn on the head during movement has opened up an opportunity to image the cerebellar electrophysiological activity non‐invasively.

We use OPMs to record human cerebellar MEG signals elicited by air‐puff stimulation to the eye.

We demonstrate robust responses in the cerebellum.

OPMs pave the way for studying the neurophysiology of the human cerebellum.

We test the feasibility of an optically pumped magnetometer‐based magnetoencephalographic (OP‐MEG) system for the measurement of human cerebellar activity. This is to our knowledge the first study investigating the human cerebellar electrophysiology using optically pumped magnetometers. As a proof of principle, we use an air‐puff stimulus to the eyeball in order to elicit cerebellar activity that is well characterized in non‐human models. In three subjects, we observe an evoked component at approx. 50 ms post‐stimulus, followed by a second component at approx. 85–115 ms post‐stimulus. Source inversion localizes both components in the cerebellum, while control experiments exclude potential sources elsewhere. We also assess the induced oscillations, with time‐frequency decompositions, and identify additional sources in the occipital lobe, a region expected to be active in our paradigm, and in the neck muscles. Neither of these contributes to the stimulus‐evoked responses at 50–115 ms. We conclude that OP‐MEG technology offers a promising way to advance the understanding of the information processing mechanisms in the human cerebellum.
An Investigation of Soot Volume Fraction and Temperature for Natural Gas Laminar Diffusion Flame Established From a Honeycomb Gaseous Burner
Authors: Ibrahim M. M. , Attia A. , Emara A. , Moneib H. A.
Published: June 2019

The present work is an experimental investigation that aims at studying the effects of different fuel additives on the soot volume fraction and temperature in a well-defined vertical laminar diffusion flame configuration, and these additives include a diluent (argon) that suppresses the formation of soot and a soot promoter (acetylene) that accelerates and intensifies the soot formation. Three different measuring techniques are employed throughout the whole experimental program, namely, a high-resolution digital camera (up to 3.7 fps) for flame visualization, a bare wire Pt/Pt-13% rhodium fine thermocouple of 15 µm wire diameter for measuring the mean gas temperature inside the flame region and a laser system for measuring the in-flame soot volume fraction. The results indicated that the soot inception zone (deep dark parabolic shape) occurs at the immediate vicinity of the burner. The soot oxidation zone is characterized by high luminosity, and it begins after the fuel is largely consumed. The increased percentages of acetylene in the fuel mixture would lead to extending the length of this zone to ultimately occupy the whole visible flame length, where the luminosity becomes independent of the amount of soot. The temperature within the soot surface growth zone (orange color) continues increasing but at a lower rate that reflects the domination of diffusion combustion mode. Limited partial oxidation may be anticipated within this zone due to the relatively high temperature, which is not high enough to cause luminosity of the soot particles.
Internet of Things Driven Framework for Smart Solar Energy System
Authors: Chawla Rashmi , Singhal Poonam , Garg Amit Kumar
Published: June 2019

The explicit model of the energy yield with respect to irradiance and cell temperature of a photovoltaic (PV) system can be apprehended using pvsyst software. Building on this data, this paper addresses performance challenges for JA Solar, JAP6 (DG) 60-235 solar PV module driving a load of Enphase, IQ6-60-x-240 grid inverter. The data modeling reflects correlation of 62% between panel temperature and output efficiency. Researchers in the past have claimed that extreme temperature exposure as one of the main impediment in decline of solar panel's life span and figured 25 °C as the ideal temperature for optimum yield. This research proposes the Internet of things (IoT)-based smart solar energy system (SES) for smart cities that automatically tune the low-powered cooling unit to lower panel's temperature to outmatch energy yield and augment solar panels life. The analog design of the cooling mechanism is set up for temperature range from −10 °C to 85 °C using hybrid op-amp proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller and heat sink/fan with surface mount temperature sensor to maintain module temperature. The experiment analysis showed improvement of 1.7% to 2.99% in output efficiency after considering 1.8 W total power intake of the cooling circuit relative to the pvsyst v6.74 results. To access temperature data of solar panel and output current along with in-built system's current consumption, IoT accreditation is done using node MCU and Wi-Fi module.
A migration-associated supergene reveals loss of biocomplexity in Atlantic cod
Authors: Kess Tony , Bentzen Paul , Lehnert Sarah J. , Sylvester Emma V. A. , Lien Sigbjørn , Kent Matthew P. , Sinclair-Waters Marion , Morris Corey J. , Regular Paul , Fairweather Robert , Bradbury Ian R.
Published: June 2019

A migration-associated chromosome rearrangement in Atlantic cod reveals genetic structure and past signatures of stock collapse.
Assessing the global Alfvén wave power flow into and out of the auroral acceleration region during geomagnetic storms
Authors: Keiling Andreas , Thaller Scott , Wygant John , Dombeck John
Published: June 2019

Global Alfvén wave power above the auroral zone increases fourfold during geomagnetic storms.
Cheminformatics-driven discovery of polymeric micelle formulations for poorly soluble drugs
Authors: Alves Vinicius M. , Hwang Duhyeong , Muratov Eugene , Sokolsky-Papkov Marina , Varlamova Ekaterina , Vinod Natasha , Lim Chaemin , Andrade Carolina H. , Tropsha Alexander , Kabanov Alexander
Published: June 2019

Computer-assisted strategy for drug delivery leads to discovery of polymeric micelle formulations for poorly soluble drugs.
Arginine methylation expands the regulatory mechanisms and extends the genomic landscape under E2F control
Authors: Roworth Alice Poppy , Carr Simon Mark , Liu Geng , Barczak Wojciech , Miller Rebecca Louise , Munro Shonagh , Kanapin Alexander , Samsonova Anastasia , La Thangue Nicholas B.
Published: June 2019

Arginine methylation widens the mechanism of control by E2F1 from a transcription factor to a regulator of alternative RNA splicing.
A biosensing soft robot: Autonomous parsing of chemical signals through integrated organic and inorganic interfaces
Authors: Justus Kyle B. , Hellebrekers Tess , Lewis Daniel D. , Wood Adam , Ingham Christian , Majidi Carmel , LeDuc Philip R. , Tan Cheemeng
Published: June 2019

A soft robot senses chemicals using synthetic bacteria to direct robotic decision making.
Nitrate-Utilizing Microorganisms Resistant to Multiple Metals from the Heavily Contaminated Oak Ridge Reservation
Authors: Thorgersen Michael P. , Ge Xiaoxuan , Poole Farris L. , Price Morgan N. , Arkin Adam P. , Adams Michael W. W.
Published: June 2019

Nitrate contamination is a global issue that affects groundwater quality. In some cases, cocontamination of groundwater with nitrate and mixtures of heavy metals could decrease microbially mediated nitrate removal, thereby increasing the duration of nitrate contamination. Here, we used metal and nitrate concentrations that are present in a contaminated site at the Oak Ridge Reservation to isolate seven metal-resistant strains. All were able to reduce nitrate in the presence of high concentrations of a mixture of heavy metals. Four of seven strains were located in pristine as well as contaminated sites at the Oak Ridge Reservation. Further study of these nitrate-reducing strains will uncover mechanisms of resistance to multiple metals that will increase our understanding of the effect of nitrate and metal contamination on groundwater microbial communities.
Distributed Neogene faulting across the western to central Arizona metamorphic core complex belt: Synextensional constriction and superposition of the Pacific–North America plate boundary on the southern Basin and Range
Authors: Singleton John S. , Seymour Nikki M. , Reynolds Stephen J. , Vomocil Terence , Wong Martin S.
Published: June 2019

We present fault data from a belt of Miocene metamorphic core complexes in western and central Arizona (USA) to determine patterns of brittle strain during and after large-magnitude extension, and to evaluate the magnitude of postextensional dextral shear across the region. In the White Tank Mountains, coeval WNW- to NW-striking dextral, normal, and oblique dextral-normal faults accommodated constrictional strain with extension subparallel to the direction of ductile stretching during core complex development. Northwest-striking oblique dextral-normal faults locally accommodated similar strain in the Harquahala Mountains, whereas in the South Mountains, constriction was primarily partitioned on NE-dipping normal faults and conjugate NW- and north-striking strike-slip faults. We interpret brittle constrictional strain to have developed during the late stages of large-magnitude extension associated with core complex development and folding of detachment fault corrugations. The oblique orientation of the Arizona core complex belt with respect to the extension direction likely resulted in a minor component of dextral transtension, accounting for much of the constrictional strain. In addition, far-field stresses associated with the transtensional Pacific–North America plate boundary may have contributed to constriction, which characterizes most Neogene detachment fault systems in the southwest Cordillera. Following cessation of detachment fault slip across the Arizona core complex belt (ca. 14–12 Ma), distributed NW-striking dextral and oblique dextral–NE-side-up (reverse) faults modified the topographic envelope of corrugations to an orientation clockwise of the core complex extension direction. Based on our analysis of this misalignment, we interpret the postdetachment fault dextral shear strain to increase northwestward from 0.03 across the South Mountains (0.5–0.6 km total slip across 18 km) to >0.03–0.07 across the Harquahala and Harcuvar Mountains (1.2–2.5 km of total slip across ∼35 km) and ∼0.2 across the Buckskin-Rawhide Mountains (7–8 km across 36 km). This along-strike variation in dextral shear is consistent with the regional pattern of distributed strain associated with the Pacific–North America plate boundary, as cumulative dextral offset in the lower Colorado River region increases toward the eastern Mojave Desert region to the northwest.
Development and implementation of a commissioned pathway for the identification and stratification of liver disease in the community
Authors: Chalmers Jane , Wilkes Emilie , Harris Rebecca , Kent Lucy , Kinra Sonali , Aithal Guru , Holmes Mary , Johnson Jeanette , Morling Joanne , Guha Indra Neil
Published: June 2019

Objective

To describe the development of the Nottingham liver disease stratification pathway, present a 12-month evaluation of uptake and stratification results, and compare the pathway with current British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) guidelines.

Design

A referral pathway between primary and secondary care for the detection and risk stratification of liver disease.

Setting

Four Nottinghamshire clinical commissioning groups (700 000 population).

Patients

Patients are referred to the pathway with (1) raised aspartate aminotransferase to alanine aminotransferase (AST:ALT) ratio, (2) harmful alcohol use or (3) risk or presence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Interventions

We report on clinic attendance within secondary care for transient elastography (TE) and brief lifestyle intervention. The TE result is reported back to the general practitioner with advice on interpretation and referral guidance.

Main outcome measures

Pathway uptake, patient characteristics, liver disease stratification results and stakeholder feedback.

Results

Over the first 12 months 968 patients attended a TE clinic appointment, with raised AST:ALT ratio being the most common single reason for referral (36.9%). Of the total, 222 (22.9%) patients had an elevated liver stiffness (≥8 kPa), in whom 57 (25.7%) had a liver stiffness which was indicative of advanced chronic liver disease. If a traditional approach based on raised liver enzymes (BSG guidance) had been followed, 38.7% of those with significant liver disease (≥8 kPa) would have gone undetected among those referred for either NAFLD or raised AST:ALT ratio.

Conclusions

Targeting patients with risk factors for chronic liver disease and stratifying them using TE can detect significant chronic liver disease above and beyond the approach based on liver enzyme elevation.
Implementation and role of modern musculoskeletal imaging in rheumatological practice in member countries of EULAR
Authors: Mandl Peter , Ciechomska Anna , Terslev L , Baraliakos Xenofon , Conaghan PG , D'Agostino Maria Antonietta , Iagnocco Annamaria , van der Laken Conny J , Ostergaard Mikkel , Naredo E
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To document the current training, implementation and role of modern musculoskeletal imaging techniques: ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and positron emission tomography, among rheumatologists in the member countries of the EULAR.

Methods

English-language questionnaires for each imaging modality developed by a EULAR task force were sent out to national and international scientific societies as well as imaging experts in the given modalities involved in research and/or training. The surveys were distributed via an online survey tool (SurveyMonkey). Simple descriptive and summary statistics were calculated from the responses.

Results

More than 90% of ultrasound (US) experts reported the availability of a US unit in their department. Suspicion of rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritides were the main clinical indications for performing US for diagnostic purposes. Suspicion of sacroiliitis and degenerative spine disease were the most common indications to perform magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) for diagnostic purposes, while positron emission tomography was mainly performed to diagnose large vessel vasculitis and to investigate fever of unknown origin. The reported percentage of rheumatologists performing US was highly variable, ranging from more than 80% in 6% of countries to less than 10% in 15% of countries. The majority of experts (77%) reported that their national rheumatology societies organise musculoskeletal US courses, while courses in MRI or CT organised by the national rheumatology societies were less commonly reported (29% and 8%, respectively).

Conclusions

Rheumatologists in Europe utilise modern imaging techniques; however, access to the techniques and training offered is varied.
Transparency, Fairness, Data Protection, Neutrality
Authors: Abiteboul Serge , Stoyanovich Julia
Published: June 2019

The data revolution continues to transform every sector of science, industry, and government. Due to the incredible impact of data-driven technology on society, we are becoming increasingly aware of the imperative to use data and algorithms responsibly—in accordance with laws and ethical norms. In this article, we discuss three recent regulatory frameworks: the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the New York City Automated Decisions Systems (ADS) Law, and the Net Neutrality principle, which aim to protect the rights of individuals who are impacted by data collection and analysis. These frameworks are prominent examples of a global trend: Governments are starting to recognize the need to regulate data-driven algorithmic technology.

Our goal in this article is to bring these regulatory frameworks to the attention of the data management community and to underscore the technical challenges they raise and that we, as a community, are well-equipped to address. The main takeaway of this article is that legal and ethical norms cannot be incorporated into data-driven systems as an afterthought. Rather, we must think in terms of responsibility by design, viewing it as a systems requirement.
The Association of Renal Agenesis and Ipsilateral Seminal Vesicle Cyst: Zinner Syndrome Case Report
Authors: AlArifi Mishal , Al-Gahwary Magdi , Gomha Mohamed
Published: June 2019

Introduction. Zinner syndrome is a rare congenital malformation characterized by the association of an ipsilateral renal agenesis, ipsilateral seminal vesicle cyst, and ipsilateral ejaculatory duct obstruction. This case is one of the first to be reported in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Case Presentation. A 20-year-old Saudi male patient presented complaining of chronic left groin pain radiating to the left testis and the medial aspect of the left thigh for the last 6 years. Patient is also complaining of painful ejaculation with no history of lower urinary tract symptoms, hematuria, or trauma. Physical examination was unremarkable. Ultrasound (US) report from the referring hospital mentioned that there is a left pelvic mass. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed diffuse distension of left seminal vesicle (9 X 7 cm) cyst with ipsilateral left renal agenesis which corresponds to Zinner syndrome. Left seminal vesicle cyst excision through a low midline incision was done. The patient was asymptomatic during his follow-up in our clinic with disappearance of the pain. Conclusion. The combination of a good clinical history and radiological assays aided in making the diagnosis. Surgical intervention is the mainstay in the management plan in symptomatic patients.
Whipple’s Disease Affecting Ileal Peyer’s Patches: The First Case Report
Authors: Sid’Amar Sabah , Puppa Giacomo
Published: June 2019

Whipple’s disease is a rare chronic systemic bacterial infectious disease which can affect multiple organs, with a wide clinical spectrum encompassing many symptoms presenting in various forms and combinations. In the cases where the gastrointestinal tract is implicated, the more frequent localizations involve the small bowel, especially the duodenum. A case of a 67-year-old man who underwent clinical investigation after presenting with a progressive weight loss and showing a hypercapting right paracoeliac adenopathy at PET-CT scan is reported herein. A gastroscopy and a colonoscopy were done. The biopsies of the endoscopically normal ileal mucosa encompassed some submucosal Peyer’s patches. Histological examination of this lymphoid tissue revealed several foamy macrophages which turned out positive on periodic acid-Schiff special staining. Polymerase chain reaction of the microdissected lymph follicles allowed for confirming Whipple’s disease diagnosis. A targeted antibiotic treatment administrated to the patient led to a rapid clinical improvement. This finding of a previously unreported localization of infected macrophages in Whipple’s disease suggests that sampling the organized mucosal-submucosal lymphoid tissue may increase the diagnostic yield in endoscopic biopsies.
Cutaneous Basal Cell Carcinoma with Bone Metastases: An Orthopaedic Case Report
Authors: Fram Brianna R. , Strony John , Jagannathan Geetha , Brown Scot A.
Published: June 2019

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer, and its incidence is increasing. Though metastatic BCC (mBCC) is uncommon, the literature demonstrates a 0.0028%-0.55% rate of metastasis. We report on a patient treated at our institution who was found to have mBCC with osseous metastases. To our knowledge, this is the first report of mBCC in the orthopaedic literature. Orthopaedic oncologists should consider mBCC in patients diagnosed with carcinoma of unknown origin, with a known history of BCC, or individuals with light skin pigmentation and age 50 or greater. This can help clinicians make the correct diagnosis and provide the appropriate treatment.
Development of Multifunctional Film for Greenhouse Applications in Tropical Regions
Authors: Petchsuk A. , Srinun D. , Buchatip S. , Supmak W. , Sirikittikul D.
Published: June 2019

Single-purpose greenhouse films such as UV-blocking, NIR-blocking, or ultrathermic films are commonly developed in various climate regions. However, multifunctional films of combined functions are rarely explored, especially in the tropical regions. In this research, a multifunctional film having high UV filtration, high NIR reflection, and good light diffusion was developed for a greenhouse cover application in tropical regions. Effects of type, quantity, and particle size of additives on optical properties (280–2500 nm) and mechanical properties of 3-layer laminated films comprising 90% LLDPE/10% EVA polymer matrix and additives were studied. Results show that properties of those films are adjustable by varying types, particle size, and content of additives. The UV transmission of the film was ranged from 13.7 to 32.7 %T, NIR reflection from 12.1 to 19.8 %R, and %haze diffusion from 39.5 to 72.3 where photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) transmission was in the range of 62.6–78.9 %T. Those films exhibit tensile strength of 18–24 MPa, modulus of elasticity of 200–280 MPa, and elongation at break of 610–810%. A field test of the newly developed films as a cover for a greenhouse of 6 m wide ×24 m long ×4.3 m high with double roof design showed a better quality of plant growth in terms of weight, height, and bush width compared to a 7% UV absorber commercial film.
Theoretical Analysis of Five‐Point Bending and Springback for Preforming Process of ERW Pipe FFX Forming
Authors: Ma Lidong , Ma Haoxi , Liu Zijian , Chen Shuo
Published: June 2019

Flexible forming excellent (FFX) forming of electric resistance welding (ERW) pipe is an advanced roll forming method. In order to understand FFX forming mechanism and set reasonable roll parameters, five‐point bending process and springback process for preforming section of ERW pipe FFX forming are analyzed. Under various assumptions, the bending process of sheet metal is divided into full elastic bending stage and elastic‐plastic bending stage by analyzing the forming law and simplifying the contact state model of roll bending process. Based on the theory of plane bending theory, the five‐point bending springback model is established. Mathematical expressions of bending curvature and rotation angle of arbitrary particle on plate under arbitrary state are derived. The curvature calculation formulas of each particle on plate after springback are obtained, and then the calculation formulas of bending angle and rebound angle after springback are obtained. The theoretical analysis results are verified by the wide plate five‐point bending experiment. The theoretical value of springback angle agrees well with the experimental results. The maximum deviation of springback angle is 0.42 degrees. The results show that the five‐point bending model is reasonable. It provides theoretical support for the preforming model of flexible roll forming.
Experimental Investigation on the Application of Ultra-Rapid-Hardening Mortar for Rigid Small Element Pavement
Authors: Han Eui-Seok , Gong Junho , Cho Dooyong , Park Sun-Kyu
Published: June 2019

Natural stones have been typically used as a paving material in historically conserved areas due to architectural aesthetic aspect and environmental impact. However, they have been traditionally suggested in light traffic volume due to the defects caused by the increased traffic loading and volume. The failures can lead to diverse problems such as losing flatness, severe damage to both vehicles and pedestrians, high traffic congestion, maintenance cost, etc. In order to overcome these obstacles, ultra-rapid-hardening (URH) cement for rigid small element pavement (SEP) was implemented as both jointing and laying course materials. Additionally, their mechanical properties were investigated according to BS 7533-4 and National Stone Surface (NSS) in the UK. Preliminarily, the proper mix mortar design was found by comparing design parameters. The compressive and flexural strength of the joint and laying course by age was verified, and the results in early-age stage were satisfied with the requirements. The adhesive and shear strengths depending upon the width of the joint were determined, and from the test outcomes, the optimal thickness of the joint was found as 15 mm. Furthermore, by contrasting the compressive strength of the laying course with the punching shear strength, the shear strength regarding joint states was increased by up to 134.3% (fully restrained), 127.9% (semirestrained), and 107.2% (non restrained). This investigation would be possible to use as baseline data for an evaluation of the long-term performance of rigid SEP.
Diabetes Mellitus, Extreme Insulin Resistance, and Hypothalamic-Pituitary Langerhans Cells Histiocytosis
Authors: Sollier Mathilde , Halbron Marine , Donadieu Jean , Idbaih Ahmed , Cohen Aubart Fleur , Vigouroux Corinne , Auclair Martine , Bourron Olivier , Bastin Marie , Béra Géraldine , Touraine Philippe , Young Jacques , Mosbah Héléna , Hartemann Agnès , Andreelli Fabrizio , Amouyal Chloé
Published: June 2019

Background. Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare inflammatory neoplasm characterized by an infiltration of organs by Langerin + (CD207+) and CD1a+ histiocytes. Diabetes insipidus is a frequent manifestation of the disease, while diabetes mellitus is very rare. We report the first case of a 20-year-old man suffering from hypothalamopituitary histiocytosis and diabetes mellitus with serum anti-insulin receptor antibodies. Case Presentation. A 20-year-old patient was admitted for the evaluation of growth delay and hyperphagia. HbA1c level and fasting blood glucose were in the normal range. The diagnosis of hypothalamopituitary histiocytosis was based on histological features after biopsy of a large suprachiasmatic lesion identified on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Association of vinblastine and purinethol was started followed by a second-line therapy by cladribine. During the follow-up, the patient was admitted for recurrence of hyperglycemic states and extreme insulin resistance. The screening for serum anti-insulin receptor antibodies was positive. Each episode of hyperglycemia appeared to be correlated with tumoral activity and increase in serum anti-insulin receptor antibodies and appeared to be improved when the disease was controlled by chemotherapy. Conclusion. We report the first description of a hypothalamopituitary histiocytosis associated with serum anti-insulin receptor antibodies, extreme insulin resistance, and diabetes. Parallel evolution of glucose levels and serum anti-insulin receptor antibodies seemed to be the consequence of immune suppressive properties of cladribine.
New Insights into Chronological Mobility of Retrotransposons In Vivo
Authors: Ghanam Amr. R. , Cao Jun , Ouyang Xuan , Song Xiaoyuan
Published: June 2019

Tissue aging is the gradual decline of physiological homeostasis accompanied with accumulation of senescent cells, decreased clearance of unwanted biological compounds, and depletion of stem cells. Senescent cells were cell cycle arrested in response to various stimuli and identified using distinct phenotypes and changes in gene expression. Senescent cells that accumulate with aging can compromise normal tissue function and inhibit or stop repair and regeneration. Selective removal of senescent cells can slow the aging process and inhibits age-associated diseases leading to extended lifespans in mice and thus provides a possibility for developing antiaging therapy. To monitor the appearance of senescent cellsin vivoand target them, a clearer understanding of senescent cell expression markers is needed. We investigated the age-associated expression of three molecular hallmarks of aging: SA-β-gal, P16INK4a, and retrotransposable elements (RTEs), in different mouse tissues during chronological aging. Our data showed that the expression of these markers is variable with aging in the different tissues. P16INK4ashowed consistent increases with age in most tissues, while expression of RTEs was variable among different tissues examined. These data suggest that biological changes occurring with physiological aging may be useful in choosing the appropriate timing of therapeutic interventions to slow the aging process or keep more susceptible organs healthier in the aging process.
Characteristic Analysis and Modeling of Network Traffic for the Electromagnetic Launch System
Authors: Lu Yao , Jiang Hanhong , Liao Tao , Xu Chengcheng , Deng Chen
Published: June 2019

The electromagnetic launch system (EMLS) is a kind of large‐scale complex system with strong mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic coupling. The effective operation of the system requires the support of advanced and reliable health management system, and the function of the health management system relies on the network traffic to complete data transmission and interaction. Through protocol filtering and time‐frequency characteristic analysis of network traffic, it is found that the system mainly includes CIP and TCP; traffic of CIP shows continuity and stability, while traffic of TCP shows sparsity and impact. Based on the analysis of traffic characteristics, an SVR‐ARMA network traffic model is established, which improves the prediction accuracy and performance of network traffic and provides a reliable technical guarantee for the fault diagnosis and health management of the EMLS.
House Mice as a Real Sanitary Threat of Human and Animal Leptospirosis: Proposal for Integrated Management
Authors: Marquez Aurélie , Ulivieri Tristan , Benoit Etienne , Kodjo Angeli , Lattard Virginie
Published: June 2019

Leptospirosis is a reemerging zoonosis and ranges in severity from benign to sometimes fatal. In cattle, infection may be responsible for abortion and infertility cases causing economic losses. Humans may be contaminated through direct contact with urine of infected animals or indirectly though interaction with urine-contaminated environment. Many wildlife species living close to cattle, especially commensal rodents may play a role in the transmission of leptospires. Because little is known on the epidemiology of nonmaintenance Leptospira serovars, appropriate management is still limited. On a French farm where human and cattle leptospirosis were detected, the transmission cycle was explored to propose appropriate mitigation measures. For that, commensal rodents present on the farm were trapped and their leptospires carriage was studied by molecular methods. Trapped mice were shown to carry two pathogenic Leptospira species (L. interrogans and L. kirschneri). Since these 2 serogroups were simultaneously detected in the trapped mice and in the cows of this farm, we suspected an initial Leptospira transmission from mice to cows requiring an effective management of mice on this farm. Because resistance to anticoagulant rodenticides due to Vkorc1 mutations has been largely described in rodents and first-generation anticoagulant rodenticides seemed to be inefficient in controlling mice on this farm, susceptibility of these mice to anticoagulants has been characterized by Vkorc1 sequencing. 50% of the trapped mice carried mutations in the Vkorc1 gene leading to severe resistance to first-generation anticoagulants. The management of such mice that are a real sanitary threat can be achieved only by using the most toxic second-generation anticoagulants or nonanticoagulant solutions.
Metabolomic Study on Nude Mice Models of Gastric Cancer Treated with Modified Si Jun Zi Tang via HILIC UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS Analysis
Authors: Nie Shanshan , Zhao Yuhang , Qiu Xinjian , Wang Wenbo , Yao Ye , Yi Min , Wang Dongsheng
Published: June 2019

Recently, metabolomic methods have been used to explore the complex pathogenesis of cancer and the mechanism of action of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulae. In this study, first, modified Si Jun Zi Tang (MSJZT) was prepared with strict quality control using the instrument method of ultra performance liquid chromatography and photodiode array detector (UPLC-PDA). Subsequently,in vivoexperiments with tumour-bearing nude mice demonstrated that MSJZT exerted good antitumour effects. MSJZT not only significantly increased mouse body weight but also shrank the tumour volume. Then, the HILIC UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS-based metabolomics approach was used for exploring the pathogenesis of gastric cancer and the molecular mechanism of MSJZT. A total of 59 potential biomarkers in plasma were identified, and 6 pathways were found to be disturbed in gastric cancer. In contrast, after 3 weeks of MSJZT intervention, 32 potential biomarkers were identified, and 4 altered pathways were detected. The changes in glycolytic, amino acid, and lipid metabolisms could be partially regulated by MSJZT through decreasing the content of lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), glutamine synthetase (GS), phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase (PCYT2) mRNA, and protein level. In conclusion, we established a HILIC UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS metabolomic analysis method to demonstrate a complex metabolic profile of gastric cancer. The disordered metabolism could be partially regulated by MSJZT. These findings not only establish a solid foundation for TCM to treat gastric cancer but also provide a basis for further exploration of the precise mechanism of MSJZT activity.
Analysis of GPR Wave Propagation Using CUDA‐Implemented Conformal Symplectic Partitioned Runge‐Kutta Method
Authors: Fang Hongyuan , Lei Jianwei , Yang Man , Li Ziwei
Published: June 2019

Accurate forward modeling is of great significance for improving the accuracy and speed of inversion. For forward modeling of large sizes and fine structures, numerical accuracy and computational efficiency are not high, due to the stability conditions and the dense grid number. In this paper, the symplectic partitioned Runge‐Kutta (SPRK) method, surface conformal technique, and graphics processor unit (GPU) acceleration technique are combined to establish a precise and efficient numerical model of electromagnetic wave propagation in complex geoelectric structures, with the goal of realizing a refined and efficient calculation of the electromagnetic response of an arbitrarily shaped underground target. The results show that the accuracy and efficiency of ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) forward modeling are greatly improved when using our algorithm. This provides a theoretical basis for accurately interpreting GPR detection data and accurate and efficient forward modeling for the next step of inversion imaging.
Pain Perception of the First Eye versus the Second Eye during Phacoemulsification under Local Anesthesia for Patients Going through Cataract Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shi Chuying , Yuan Jinqiu , Zee Benny
Published: June 2019

Background. Phacoemulsification under local anesthesia is regarded as the major surgery for cataract treatment. Recent research has compared the pain perception between the first eye and the second eye during phacoemulsification. However, these studies have also yielded controversial findings. Consequently, we performed a systematic review and a meta-analysis to investigate the difference in the pain perception between the first and second eyes during phacoemulsification. Method. We searched the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases for the studies published up to October 5, 2018. Prospective observational studies were included. The meta-analysis was conducted by means of random-effects model and fixed-effects model according to the heterogeneity. Evaluation of the methodological quality of studies was based on Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Results. Overall, eight studies were included in the meta-analysis. The analysis of pooled data showed that the pain scores of the first eye shortly after surgery under local anesthesia were significantly lower as compared to the second eye (WMD: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.40, 0.98; P<0.00001). The average pain scores of the first eye shortly after surgery under the topical anesthesia were also lower than those of the second eye (WMD: 1.08; 95% CI: 0.79, 1.36; P<0.00001). Conversely, anxiety scores in the first eye surgery were significantly higher than those in the second eye surgery (SMD: −0.40; 95% CI: −0.64, −0.16; P=0.001). However, the difference of the pain scores accessed on the first postoperative day between the first and second eye surgeries (WMD: −0.05; 95% CI −0.40, 0.31; P=0.79) as well as cooperation grades of patients between the first and second eye surgeries (WMD: 0.35; 95% CI −0.07, 0.76; P=0.10) was not statistically significant. Conclusion. Patients experienced more pain in the surgery of the second eye than that of the first eye, which probably related to lower anxiety before the second surgery. It suggests that we should consider preoperative intervention to reduce the perceived pain during second eye cataract surgery.
Large‐Scale Model Testing of High‐Speed Railway Subgrade under Freeze‐Thaw and Precipitation Conditions
Authors: Zhang Shasha , Wang Yantao , Xiao Fei , Chen Weizhi
Published: June 2019

To determine whether coarse‐grained saline soil meets the deformation requirements of the DY high‐speed railway subgrade, a study was conducted by a combination of field‐monitoring and laboratory tests. First, several temperature sensors were buried vertically in the ground of a typical section, and the temperature at different depths was monitored for nearly one year and analysed dynamically. It was determined that a depth of 4.8 m can be set as the constant‐temperature layer. Then, based on the field‐monitoring results, laboratory tests were carried out on a large‐scale subgrade model under freeze‐thaw and precipitation conditions. The change of temperature, moisture content, and soil deformation of the subgrade under long‐term freeze‐thaw and precipitation conditions were obtained. The results show that the temperature changes periodically with a V shape during the entire cycle. Twenty centimetres below the top surface is the sensitive depth of the sample, and salinity has little effect on temperature change. In the process of cycles, the average moisture content of soils with higher salinity is about 0.5% lower than that of soils with lower salinity. After nine freeze‐thaw cycles, the sample finally shows dissolved settlement deformation. Precipitation mainly affects the deformation of the sample; however, the influence on salt‐expansion and frost‐heave deformation is less significant. Finally, by predicting the deformation of coarse saline soil, it is proven that the soil can meet the deformation requirements of high‐speed railway foundations.
Bilateral Supracondylar Humerus Fracture in Pediatric after a Fall on an Outstretched Hand
Authors: Alanazi Basam , Fakeeha Jameel , Pasha Abdulrahman , Alqulaiti Hussam , Alharbi Hani , Mahmoud Jameel
Published: June 2019

Background. Supracondylar humerus fracture (SCH) is common in the pediatric age group 5-7 years, mostly due to a fall on an outstretched hand. However, a bilateral SCH is rarely observed in this age group. Management of SCH is either surgical or conservative based on the following factors: patient age, fracture pattern and neurovascular involvement. Complications of a displaced SCH can be dramatically reduced by early surgical fixation. Acute complications include: neurovascular injury and compartment syndrome, and long term complications include: stiffness, infections and angular deformities. In this article, we present a rare case of bilateral supracondylar humerus fractures with a six-months follow-up.
Failure Prediction of Two Types of Rocks Based on Acoustic Emission Characteristics
Authors: Sun Bing , Hou Shanshan , Xie Jiehui , Zeng Sheng
Published: June 2019

The stability analysis of rock is an important basis to ensure the safe exploitation of underground resources and the reliable operation of space engineering. Uniaxial compression and acoustic emission (AE) tests were carried out on two common rock samples with strong rock burst tendency. The relationship between mechanical characteristics, AE characteristics, and rock burst tendency in the failure process of rock with different body types and the evolution of fractal characteristics of AE parameters were discussed. Based on the cusp mutation theory, the catastrophe model of AE characteristic parameters was established to quantify the instability mechanism of rock mass. The results show that the AE mutation rate (AEMR) of the cubic specimens increase from a low level to a high level gradually in the stable fracture stage, while that of the cylindrical specimens increase sharply to the maximum when the specimens are near failure. The AE cumulative energy curves of cubic specimens show a “step” rise, while that of cylindrical specimens show a “gradual” rise, and the rock burst process of cubic specimens is faster. The fractal dimension evolution mode of AE characteristic parameters of cubic specimens during uniaxial compression text is decline‐rise‐decline, while that of cylindrical specimen is decline‐rise‐decline‐steeply rise. According to the periodic change of AE cumulative energy curve, combined with the rock failure cusp mutation model, the occurrence of rock burst can be well predicted, providing certain theoretical guidance for the stability analysis of underground engineering rock mass.
Long Hours’ Effects on Work-Life Balance and Satisfaction
Authors: Hsu Ya-Yuan , Bai Chyi-Huey , Yang Chien-Ming , Huang Ya-Chuan , Lin Tzu-Ting , Lin Chih-Hung
Published: June 2019

Purpose. In this study, we examined whether the associations between working hours, job satisfaction, and work-life balance are mediated by occupational stress. In addition, we tested whether perceived time control helps moderate the effects of working hours and occupational stress. Methodology. Questionnaires were administered to 369 respondents working in the high-tech and banking industries. Analyses were then conducted on the data. Findings. The analysis revealed significant correlations between long working hours and both occupational stress and work-life balance, as well as between occupational stress and both work-life balance and job satisfaction. In addition, the relationship between working hours and occupational stress exhibited a significantly positive interaction with perceived time control. Value. The results indicate the importance of giving workers greater control over working hours. We therefore recommend that labor laws should be revised as necessary to prevent excessive working hours and enhance work-time flexibility.
Simultaneous Changes in Astigmatism with Noncycloplegia Refraction and Ocular Biometry in Chinese Primary Schoolchildren
Authors: Lin Yaoyao , Jiang Dandan , Li Chunchun , Chang Xiao , Vasudevan Balamurali , Huang Xiaoqiong , Zhou Wenzhe , Qin Lei , Chen Yanyan
Published: June 2019

Purpose. To assess the changing profile of astigmatism in Chinese schoolchildren and the association between astigmatism changes and ocular biometry. Methods. We examined and followed up 1,463 children aged 6–9 years from Wenzhou, China. We measured noncycloplegic refraction twice each year and tested axial length (AL) and corneal radius of curvature (CRC) annually for two years. We defined clinically significant astigmatism (CSA) as ≤−0.75 diopter (D) and non-CSA astigmatism as ≤0 to >−0.75 D. Results. Prevalence of CSA at baseline was 22.4% (n = 327) and decreased to 20.3% (n = 297) at the two-year follow-up (P=0.046). Ninety-two (8.1%) non-CSA children developed CSA. In multiple regression, after adjusting for age, gender, baseline cylinder refraction, and axis, children who had longer baseline ALs (>23.58 mm; odds ratio (OR) = 5.19, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.72–9.90) and longer baseline AL/CRC ratio (>2.99, OR = 4.99, 95% CI: 2.37–10.51) were more likely to develop CSA after two years. Four-hundred and two (27.5%) children had increased astigmatism, 783 (53.5%) had decreased, and 278 (19.0%) had no change during the two-year follow-up. Children with increased astigmatism had longer baseline ALs (23.33 mm, P<0.001), higher AL/CRC ratios (2.99 mm, P<0.001), and more negative spherical equivalent refraction (SER) (−0.63 D, P<0.001) compared with the decreased and no astigmatism change subgroups. Also, children in the increased astigmatism subgroup had more AL growth (0.68 mm, P<0.001), higher increases in AL/CRC ratio (0.08, P<0.001), and more negative SER change (−0.86 D, P<0.001) compared with the decreased and no astigmatism change subgroups. Conclusions. The prevalence of astigmatism decreased slightly over the two-year study period. Longer ALs and higher AL/CRC ratios were independent risk factors for developing CSA. Increased astigmatism was associated with AL growth, AL/CRC ratio increases, and the development of myopia. This trial is registered with ChiCTR1800019915.
The State‐Dependent Impulsive Model with Action Threshold Depending on the Pest Density and Its Changing Rate
Authors: Khan Ihsan Ullah , Tang Sanyi , Tang Biao
Published: June 2019

Whether the integrated control measures are applied or not depends not only on the current density of pest population, but also on its current growth rate, and this undoubtedly brings challenges and new ideas to the state control measures that only rely on the pest density. To address this, utilizing the tactics of IPM, we constructed a Lotka‐Volterra predator‐prey system with action threshold depending on the pest density and its changing rate and examined its dynamical behavior. We present new criteria guaranteeing the existence, uniqueness, and global stability of periodic solutions. With the help of Lambert W function, the Poincaré map is constructed for the phase set, which can help us to provide the satisfactory conditions for the existence and stability of the semitrivial periodic solution and interior order‐1 periodic solutions. Furthermore, the existence of order‐2 and nonexistence of order‐k(k ≥ 3) periodic solutions are discussed. The idea of action threshold depending on the pest density and its changing rate is more general and can generate new remarkable directions as well compared with those represented in earlier studies. The analytical techniques developed in this paper can play a significant role in analyzing the impulsive models with complex phase set or impulsive set.