bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic evaluation for novel stayability traits in Nellore cattle
Authors: Ramos Pedro Vital Brasil , e Silva Fabyano Fonseca , da Silva Luiz Otávio Campos , Santiago Gustavo Garcia , Menezes Gilberto Romeiro de Oliveira , Soriano Viana José Marcelo , Torres Júnior Roberto A. A. , Gondo Andrea , Brito Luiz F.
Published: December 2019

Cow stayability plays a major role on the overall profitability of the beef cattle industry, as it is directly related to reproductive efficiency and cow's longevity. Stayability (STAY63) is usually defined as the ability of the cow to calve at least three times until 76 months of age. This is a late‐measured and lowly heritable trait, which consequently constrains genetic progress per time unit. Thus, the use of genomic information associated with novel stayability traits measured earlier in life will likely result in higher prediction accuracy and faster genetic progress for cow longevity. In this study, we aimed to compare pedigree‐based and single‐step GBLUP (ssGBLUP) methods as well as to estimate genetic correlations between the proposed stayability traits: STAY42, STAY53 and STAY64, which are measured at 52, 64 and 76 months of cow's age, considering at least 2, 3 and 4 calving, respectively. ssGBLUP yielded the highest prediction accuracy for all traits. The heritability estimates for STAY42, STAY53, STAY63 and STAY64 were 0.090, 0.151, 0.152 and 0.143, respectively. The genetic correlations between traits ranged from 0.899 (STAY42 and STAY53) to 0.985 (STAY53 and STAY63). The high genetic correlation between STAY42 and STAY53 suggests that besides being related to cow longevity, STAY53 is also associated with the early‐stage reproductive efficiency. Thus, STAY53 is recommended as a suitable selection criterion for reproductive efficiency due to its higher heritability, favourable genetic correlation with other traits, and measured earlier in life, compared with the conventional stayability trait, that is STAY63.
Kisspeptin injection improved the semen characteristics and sperm rheotaxis in Ossimi ram
Authors: EL‐sherry Timor M. , Abdel‐Ghani Mohammed A. , Mahmoud Gamal B. , Ezzat Ahmed A.
Published: December 2019

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of kisspeptin‐10 (Kp10) injection on semen characteristics, testosterone (T) production and sperm rheotaxis using microfluidic devices in immature ram. Computer‐assisted sperm analysis (CASA) with controlled flow velocity was used to explore the kinetic parameters of sperm and positive rheotaxis (PR %). PR % was defined as the number of PR sperms over the number of motile sperms. Healthy Ossimi rams were randomly divided into two groups; a saline‐treated control group and Kp10‐treated one (5 µg/kg body weight). Treatments were given by intramuscular injection once a week for 1 month. After 1 month, the semen was collected and evaluated weekly for 6 weeks, while the blood samples were collected every 2 weeks for the next 8 weeks. Semen properties were significantly affected by Kp10 injection (p < .01). The Kp10 increased the volume, sperm concentration and percentages of live sperm compared with those of control. Additionally, sperm trajectories and rheotaxis get improved by the injection of Kp10 with time. Furthermore, kisspeptin improved the secretion of testosterone levels throughout the period of study. In conclusion, injections of the Kp10 had a positive impact on semen characteristics as well as improved sperm rheotaxis of Ossimi rams in subtropics.
New avenues for melanoma immunotherapy: Natural Killer cells?
Authors: Cristiani Costanza Maria , Garofalo Cinzia , Passacatini Lucia Carmela , Carbone Ennio
Published: December 2019

Human solid malignant tumours may be particularly resistant to conventional therapies. Among solid tumours, immunological features of cutaneous melanoma have been well characterized in the past and today melanoma patients are routinely treated with the anti‐immune checkpoints immunotherapy that has completely changed metastatic melanoma treatment and prognosis. Two cytotoxic cell populations may lead to the physical elimination of tumour cell targets: cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and natural killer (NK) cells. Tumour recognition by CTLs depends on major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules, while NK cells recognize tumours expressing low or null levels of MHC class I molecules. Despite this well‐established complementarity, NK cells are still left behind in the optimization of innovative immunotherapy approaches. NK cells are members of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) that play a critical role in early host defence against invading pathogens and transformed cells. Recent findings suggest that NK cell frequencies directly correlate with the overall survival of ipilimumab‐treated melanoma patients. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo evidences indicate that NK cells can selectively kill cancer stem cells, reducing tumour size and delaying metastatic progression. The aim of this review is to provide a survey of the evidences indicating NK cells as an excellent candidate to complement the newest solid tumour immunotherapy approaches.
Recurrent urinary tract infections: a critical review of the currently available treatment options
Authors: Negus Mike , Phillips Christian , Hindley Richard
Published: December 2019

Key content

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common infections in women worldwide. Prevalence increases with age to 20% over the age of 60. Recurrence is common.

UTI is a clinical and socio‐economic burden and a cause of significant psychological distress to the patient.

Acute UTI needs swift assessment, diagnosis and treatment to prevent ascending or systemic infection.

Antibiotics remain the mainstay of treatment in acute UTI; it is thought that up to 50% of antibiotic prescriptions are inappropriate or unnecessary and may increase the risk of bacterial resistance.

Management strategies to prevent recurrent UTI are heterogeneous.

Learning objectives

To understand the rationale of why preventing recurrent UTI (rUTI) is important.

To develop an awareness of the non‐physical effects of rUTI.

To understand the critical appraisal of the current and developing treatments for rUTI.
Comparison of ABO isoagglutinin titres by three different methods: tube haemagglutination, micro‐column agglutination and automated immunohematology analyzer based on erythrocyte‐magnetized technology
Authors: Shim Hyoeun , Hwang Joo‐Hyung , Kang Su‐jin , Seo Hee‐Seoung , Park Eun Young , Park Kyoung Un , Kong Sun‐Young
Published: December 2019

Background and Objectives

ABO isoagglutinin titre is important for evaluating and monitoring ABO‐incompatible (ABOi) stem cells or solid organ transplantations. There are several methods to measure the titre level, including the tube haemagglutination method, micro‐column agglutination and erythrocyte‐magnetized technology (EMT). However, few studies have reported isoagglutinin measured by EMT. Here, we compared the isoagglutinin titre of normal individuals obtained by an automated instrument with that obtained by conventional manual methods to evaluate the feasibility of replacing the manual method with the automated instrument.

Materials and Methods

The ABO isoagglutinin titre was measured on residual samples of healthy individuals who visited the health promotion centre of the National Cancer Center, Korea, from April to October 2015. Samples from 120 patients were collected, which included 20 males and 20 females for each blood group (A, B and O). IgM and IgG ABO isoagglutinin titres of each blood group were measured by the tube haemagglutination, micro‐column agglutination and EMT techniques. The median (minimum‐maximum) titres were compared, and the concordance between two methods was evaluated with the rate of results showing within one titre difference.

Results

The median ABO IgM and IgG titres of all blood groups obtained by the EMT method were higher than that obtained by the conventional tube haemagglutination and micro‐column agglutination.

Conclusion

The agreement between the two methods was comparable in case of IgM but low in IgG.
Lessons Learned: Coaches’ Perceptions of a Pilot E-Mentoring Programme
Authors: Grant Matthew A. , Bloom Gordon A. , Lefebvre Jordan S.
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine mentor and mentee perceptions of the viability of a pilot e-mentoring programme for U.S. lacrosse (USL) coaches. Twelve mentees and 12 mentors were paired into dyads, met at a national coaching convention, and were directed to continue their mentoring relationship for up to 6 months via an online platform. Semistructured postprogramme interviews were conducted with four mentors and six mentees at the conclusion of the mentoring relationships. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed via thematic analysis. Results showed that mentors and mentees experienced many of the benefits, barriers, and advantages found in traditional mentoring and e-mentoring relationships. Of interest were three key findings in which trust and respect was quickly experienced by participants, equity within the relationship created collegiality, and technology barriers limited effective teaching methods. Based on the results, practical implications for e-mentoring programmes are presented.
Holographic entanglement entropy under the minimal geometric deformation and extensions
Authors: da Rocha R. , Tomaz A. A.
Published: December 2019

The holographic entanglement entropy (HEE) of the minimal geometric deformation (MGD) procedure, and its extensions (EMGD), is scrutinized within the membrane paradigm of AdS/CFT. The HEE corrections of the Schwarzschild and Reissner–Nordström solutions, due to a finite fluid brane tension, are then derived and discussed in the context of the MGD and the EMGD.
Cosmic evolution of ghost dark energy models in f(G,T) gravity
Authors: Sharif M. , Saba Saadia
Published: December 2019

The aim of this paper is to study the reconstruction paradigm for both ghost as well as generalized ghost dark energy models in the context of [Formula: see text] gravity. To accomplish this, we use correspondence scenario for pressureless flat FRW universe with power-law scale factor. The cosmological behavior of reconstructed models is analyzed through graphical analysis of deceleration, equation of state, squared speed of sound parameters and phase planes. It is found that the deceleration parameter represents accelerated epoch for both models whereas equation of state parameter indicates phantom era of the universe for ghost dark energy model and quintessence for its generalized version. The phase planes [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] indicate the freezing region with phantom phase for both reconstructed dark energy models. We conclude that the squared speed of sound parameter leads to the stability of generalized ghost dark energy model only.
Incidental Anomalous Left Coronary Artery in a Transplanted Heart
Authors: Patlolla Sri Harsha , Vallabhajosyula Saraschandra , Bell Malcolm R.
Published: December 2019

Anomalous coronary artery is an uncommon congenital cardiac anomaly that is often detected incidentally on coronary angiography. It has rarely been reported in the donor heart of patients who have undergone cardiac transplantation. Here, we report a case of a 72-year-old patient who received a second heart transplant and has been identified to have an anomalous left main coronary artery originating from the right coronary sinus on postoperative coronary angiography.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy for Achilles Tendinopathy
Authors: Stania Magdalena , Juras Grzegorz , Chmielewska Daria , Polak Anna , Kucio Cezary , Król Piotr
Published: December 2019

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is among the conservative treatments for Achilles tendinopathy. Unfortunately, no optimal application parameters have been determined that would ensure ESWT effectiveness in this condition. The aim of the paper is to use research reports on ESWT in patients with Achilles tendinopathy to help practising physiotherapists establish the most effective intervention parameters. A search was conducted using the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, EBSCOhost, and Web of Science. The papers were checked for relevant content and were included based on the following criteria: full-text article published in English and including comprehensive description of shock wave application. Twenty-two articles met the inclusion criteria. Most studies on the effectiveness of ESWT for Achilles tendinopathy included in this narrative review were randomized controlled trials. Two case-control studies, a case series study, prospective audit, clinical trial protocol, and a pilot study were also considered. The majority were prospective studies. Only a few authors presented the findings from retrospective observations. The two modalities of shock wave therapy used for Achilles tendinopathy are focused shock waves and radial shock waves. The literature contains reports presenting mainly beneficial effects of ESWT in patients with Achilles tendinopathy.
A Spatiotemporal Deformation Modelling Method Based on Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression
Authors: Yang Zhijia , Dai Wujiao , Santerre Rock , Kuang Cuilin , Shi Qiang
Published: December 2019

The geographically and temporally weighted regression (GTWR) model is a dynamic model which considers the spatiotemporal correlation and the spatiotemporal nonstationarity. Taking into account these advantages, we proposed a spatiotemporal deformation modelling method based on GTWR. In order to further improve the modelling accuracy and efficiency and considering the application characteristics of deformation modelling, the inverse window transformation method is used to search the optimal fitting window width and furthermore the local linear estimation method is used in the fitting coefficient function. Moreover, a comprehensive model for the statistical tests method is proposed in GTWR. The results of a dam deformation modelling application show that the GTWR model can establish a unified spatiotemporal model which can represent the whole deformation trend of the dam and furthermore can predict the deformation of any point in time and space, with stronger flexibility and applicability. Finally, the GTWR model improves the overall temporal prediction accuracy by 43.6% compared to the single‐point time‐weighted regression (TWR) model.
A Case of Long-Term Survival after Checkpoint Inhibitor Pneumonitis in a Patient with Squamous Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Ashinuma Hironori , Mizuno Satoko , Yoshida Yasushi , Shingyoji Masato
Published: December 2019

The management of grade 1 checkpoint inhibitor pneumonitis (CIP) is to withhold immune checkpoint inhibitors; however, the natural history of this condition is unknown. We herein report the case of a woman with squamous cell lung cancer who was a long-term survivor after CIP. After 4 rounds of treatment with nivolumab, a chest CT revealed a reticular pattern and ground-glass attenuation with shrinkage of the primary nodule. Nivolumab treatment was withheld without the administration of steroids. Although she remained asymptomatic, subsequent images revealed an increasing interstitial shadow until 2 months after the stop of nivolumab treatment. Thereafter, the interstitial shadow began to improve spontaneously without steroid treatment. Moreover, although the patient has not received additional therapy, disease control of lung cancer has been obtained within a follow-up period of more than 3 years. Although the exacerbation of CIP may appear on images for several months, asymptomatic cases can be followed without the administration of steroids. If the tumor had already responded prior to the onset of CIP, a favorable long-term prognosis can be expected.
Dosing of Antimycotic Treatment in Sepsis–Induced Liver Dysfunction by Functional Liver Testing with LiMAx®
Authors: Kirchner Carmen , Sibai Jasmin , Schwier Elke , Henzler Dietrich , Eickmeyer Claas , Winde Günther , Köhler Thomas
Published: December 2019

Background. Sepsis-treatment is one of the major challenges in our time. Especially fungal infections play an important role in patient’s morbidity and mortality. In patients with septic shock, liver function is often significantly impaired and therefore also hepatic drug metabolism is altered. Case Presentation. We report about a 56-year-old man suffering from invasive fungal infection with multiorgan failure, after complicated medical history due to symptomatic infrarenal aortic aneurysm. On the first postoperative day, a CT scan was undertaken due to massive back pain showing renal infarction on both sides. As qualitative and quantitative renal function was impaired, hemodialysis was started immediately. Subsequently, the patient developed a compartment syndrome of the left leg and underwent fasciotomy. On admission day 7, the patient presented with hematochezia leading to colonoscopy. During this procedure, an ischemic colitis was observed. As conservative treatment failed, the patient underwent Hartmann’s procedure due to progredient ischemia followed by a worsening of the clinical status due to sepsis. The patient suffered from an invasive fungal infection with Candida spp. and Aspergillus spp. Systemic antifungal treatment was initiated. Although azoles are considered first-line treatment in these cases we chose the echinocandin caspofungin for its presumed lower impact on liver function compared to azoles like voriconazole or Amphothericin B. However, caspofungin is also metabolised in the liver and can cause hepatotoxic effects. Therefore we measured metabolic liver function capacity using LiMAx®and adapted the patient’s dose of caspofungin to the evaluated liver function capacity to achieve an effective and liver-protective level of the active drug. After complicated medical history with 15 weeks of hospital stay, the patient was discharged in general good condition. Conclusions. To our knowledge, this is the first report that relates antimycotic drug dosing to a functional liver test. We provide a new approach for sepsis treatment considering liver function capacity to optimize dosage of hepatically metabolised drugs with potential hepatotoxic effects.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy as a Complementary Alternative for Chronic Pelvic Pain Management in an Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome Patient
Authors: Overholt Tyler L. , Ross Christina , Evans Robert J. , Walker Stephen J.
Published: December 2019

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome is a chronic pelvic pain condition with no known etiology that affects millions of women and men in the United States. Current management can be aggressive for individuals who are refractory to less invasive options, often resulting in the use of opioid narcotics and/or surgical procedures under general anesthesia, with higher risks and side effects to patients. Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy is a noninvasive therapeutic strategy that is thought to reduce inflammation and pain via alteration of cellular function and microcirculation. This therapy has demonstrated efficacy in management of other chronic pain syndromes including fibromyalgia and chronic low back pain. Herein, we describe a case of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy for management of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome that resulted in decreases in pelvic pain, burning with bladder filling, and other nonpelvic pain symptoms. This case provides support for a formal clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy for the management of chronic pelvic pain in interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome.
Evaluation of Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness, Electroretinogram and Visual Evoked Potential in Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ngoo Qi Zhe , Wan Hitam Wan Hazabbah , Ab Razak Asrenee
Published: December 2019

Objective. To study the retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness and visual electrophysiology testing in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods. A cross-sectional, hospital-based study: 25 AD subjects and 25 controls were recruited. Candidates who fulfil the criteria with normal ocular examinations were made to proceed with scanning laser polarimetry, pattern electroretinogram (PERG), and pattern visual evoked potential (PVEP) examinations of the right eye. RNFL thickness, PERG, and PVEP readings were evaluated. Results. In AD, the mean of average RNFL thickness was 45.28 μm, SD = 3.61, P<0.001 (P<0.05), while the superior RNFL thickness was 54.44 μm, SD = 2.85, P<0.001 (P<0.05) and inferior RNFL thickness was 47.11 μm, SD = 4.52, P<0.001 (P<0.05). For PERG, the mean P50 latency was 63.88 ms, SD = 7.94, P<0.001 (P<0.05) and the mean amplitudes of P50 waves were 1.79 μV, SD = 0.64, P<0.001 (P<0.05) and N95 waves were 2.43 μV, SD = 0.90, P<0.001 (P<0.05). For PVEP, the mean latency of P100 was 119.00 ms, SD = 9.07, P<0.001 (P<0.05), while the mean latency of N135 was 145.20 ms, SD = 8.53, P<0.001 (P<0.05). The mean amplitude of P100 waves was 3.71 μV, SD = 1.60, P<0.001 (P<0.05), whereas the mean amplitude of N135 waves was 3.67 μV, SD = 2.02, P<0.001 (P<0.05). RNFL thickness strongly correlates with PERG readings, with P50 latency R = 0.582, R2 = 0.339, P=0.002 (P<0.05), amplitude of P50 wave at R = 0.749, R2 = 0.561, P≤0.001 (P<0.05), and amplitude of N95 wave at R = 0.500, R2 = 0.250, P=0.011 (P<0.05). No significant difference and correlation were observed on PVEP readings. Conclusion. The mean of the average, superior and inferior RNFL thickness were significantly lower in the AD group compared with control. There is also significant difference of PERG and PVEP parameters between AD and controls. Regression analysis showed average RNFL thickness having significantly linear relationship with the PERG parameters.
Reinforced Feedback in Virtual Environment for Plantar Flexor Poststroke Spasticity Reduction and Gait Function Improvement
Authors: Luque-Moreno Carlos , Cano-Bravo Fátima , Kiper Pawel , Solís-Marcos Ignacio , Moral-Munoz Jose A. , Agostini Michela , Oliva-Pascual-Vaca Ángel , Turolla Andrea
Published: December 2019

Background. Ankle spasticity is a frequent phenomenon that limits functionality in poststroke patients. Objectives. Our aim was to determine if there was decreased spasticity in the ankle plantar flex (PF) muscles in the plegic lower extremity (LE) and improvement of gait function in stroke patients after traditional rehabilitation (TR) in combination with virtual reality with reinforced feedback, which is termed “reinforced feedback virtual environment” (RFVE). Methods. The evaluation, before and after treatment, of 10 hemiparetic patients was performed using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Functional Ambulatory Category (FAC), and Functional Independence Measure (FIM). The intervention consisted of 1 hour/day of TR plus 1 hour/day of RFVE (5 days/week for 3 weeks; 15 sessions in total). Results. The MAS and FAC reached statistical significance (P<0.05). The changes in the FIM did not reach statistical significance (P=0.066). The analysis between the ischemic and haemorrhagic patients showed significant differences in favour of the haemorrhagic group in the FIM scale. A significant correlation between the FAC and the months after the stroke was established (P=−0.711). Indeed, patients who most increased their score on the FAC at the end of treatment were those who started the treatment earliest after stroke. Conclusions. The combined treatment of TR and RFVE showed encouraging results regarding the reduction of spasticity and improvement of gait function. An early commencement of the treatment seems to be ideal, and future research should increase the sample size and assessment tools.
Topological Transition in a 3 nm Thick Al Film Grown by Molecular Beam Epitaxy
Authors: Kumar Ankit , Su Guan-Ming , Chang Chau-Shing , Yeh Ching-Chen , Wu Bi-Yi , Patel Dinesh K. , Fan Yen-Ting , Lin Sheng-Di , Chow Lee , Liang Chi-Te
Published: December 2019

We have performed detailed transport measurements on a 3 nm thick (as-grown) Al film on GaAs prepared by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). Such an epitaxial film grown on a GaAs substrate shows the Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless (BKT) transition, a topological transition in two dimensions. Our experimental data shows that the MBE-grown Al nanofilm is an ideal system for probing interesting physical phenomena such as the BKT transition and superconductivity. The increased superconductor transition temperature (~2.4 K) compared to that of bulk Al (1.2 K), together with the ultrathin film quality, may be advantageous for future superconductor-based quantum devices and quantum information technology.
The Application and Analytical Pathway of Dexmedetomidine in Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Tang Ying , Jia Changxin , He Jianshuai , Zhao Yang , Chen Huayong , Wang Shilei
Published: December 2019

Ischemia/reperfusion cerebral injury can cause serious damage to nerve cells. The injured organelles are cleared by autophagy eventually, which is critical for cell survival. Dexmedetomidine is neuroprotective in various ischemia/reperfusion models. Mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) is the most important channel of mitochondrial Ca2+ influx into mitochondria, where Ca2+ has a potential effect on mitochondrial autophagy. However, the role of MCU in the changes of mitophagy and autophagy caused by dexmedetomidine is unknown. In this study, we constructed an in vitro I/R model by subjecting the oxygen and glucose deprivation/reperfusion model to SH-SY5Y cells to mimic the cerebral I/R injury. We found that postconditioning with dexmedetomidine and 3-methyladenine (3MA, an autophagy inhibitor) increased the cell survival meanwhile reduced the production of autophagic vesicles and the expression of LC3 and Beclin 1. This process also increased the expression of BCL-2, P62, and TOM20. After applied with spermine (MCU-specific agonist), the expression of autophagy proteins by dexmedetomidine was reversed, and the same changes were also observed in immunofluorescence. The results of our study suggested that dexmedetomidine can inhibit MCU and reduce excessive mitophagy and autophagy for conferring protection against I/R injury.
Compact Wideband Dual-Frequency Antenna Based on a Simplified Composite Right/Left-Handed Transmission Line with Hilbert Curve Loading
Authors: Li Tianpeng , Zhang Jian , Cheng Baowei , Lei Xue , Xu Zhijian , Gao Jun
Published: December 2019

This paper addresses the issues of low bandwidth, gain, and efficiency of miniaturized microwave antennas by proposing a novel wideband dual-frequency coplanar waveguide antenna design based on a simplified composite right/left-handed (SCRLH) transmission line structure with Hilbert curve loading. The multifrequency characteristics of the SCRLH transmission line structure are evaluated theoretically, and the antenna parameters promoting bandwidth broadening under zeroth-order resonance (ZOR) and first-order resonance (FOR) mode operation are evaluated. The bandwidth broadening in the ZOR and FOR modes is accordingly revealed to be independent of the antenna length, and the structure therefore facilitates wideband operation under miniaturization. Finally, the dual-frequency ZOR and FOR mode antenna design with center frequencies of f0 = 1.865 GHz and f1 = 2.835 GHz is validated via simulation, and the performance of a compact prototype antenna is evaluated experimentally. The −10 dB return loss bandwidths at f0 and f1 are 187 MHz (from 1.773 GHz to 1.96 GHz) and 368 MHz (from 3.002 GHz to 3.37 GHz), and the corresponding relative bandwidths are 10.1% and 11.5%, respectively. The experimentally measured peak gains and radiation efficiencies at f0 are 1.54 dB and 81.3%, respectively, and those at f1 are 1.71 dB and 74.2%, respectively.
WiFi Offloading Algorithm Based on Q-Learning and MADM in Heterogeneous Networks
Authors: Sun Lin , Zhu Qi
Published: December 2019

This paper proposes a WiFi offloading algorithm based on Q-learning and MADM (multiattribute decision making) in heterogeneous networks for a mobile user scenario where cellular networks and WiFi networks coexist. The Markov model is used to describe the changes of the network environment. Four attributes including user throughput, terminal power consumption, user cost, and communication delay are considered to define the user satisfaction function reflecting QoS (Quality of Service), and Q-learning is used to optimize it. Through AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) and TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution) in MADM, the intrinsic connection between each attribute and the reward function is obtained. The user uses Q-learning to make offloading decisions based on current network conditions and their own offloading history, ultimately maximizing their satisfaction. The simulation results show that the user satisfaction of the proposed algorithm is better than the traditional WiFi offloading algorithm.
The Relationship between Knee Adduction Moment and Knee Osteoarthritis Symptoms according to Static Alignment and Pelvic Drop
Authors: Nie Yong , Wang Hua , Xu Bin , Zhou ZongKe , Shen Bin , Pei FuXing
Published: December 2019

Objectives. To investigate the relationship between external knee adduction moment (KAM) and knee osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms according to static alignment and pelvic drop. Methods. Ninety-five participants with symptomatic knee OA were included. Radiographic severity was graded by Kellgren and Lawrence (KL) scale. The hip-knee-ankle (HKA) angle was used to assess limb alignment from a full-length lower-limb radiograph. KAM-related variables (peak KAM and KAM impulse) and pelvic drop angle were determined from 3D gait analysis. Symptoms were assessed via visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and hospital for special surgery (HSS) score for physical function. The relationship between KAM and symptoms was evaluated according to radiographic severity and pelvic drop using linear models. Results. According to the more affected knee in the varus group, both the two KAM-related measures (peak KAM and KAM impulse) were positively associated with greater VAS pain and were negatively associated with HSS score. Only peak KAM was correlated with VAS and HSS in the valgus group. VAS pain score of the more affected knee was positively correlated with pelvic drop angle. Stratified by pelvic drop angle, KAM-related variables were more positively associated with VAS pain and negatively associated with HSS score for patients with pelvic drop angle ≤3 degrees. The relationships between KAM and symptoms according to radiographic disease severity remained confusing. Conclusions. Static alignment and pelvic drop angle significantly affected relationships between KAM-related variables and knee OA symptoms, which may explain the confusing results as shown by previous studies.
Automatic Roadway Backfilling of Caving Gangue for Cutting Roofs by Combined Support on Gob-Side Entry Retaining with No-Pillars: A Case Study
Authors: Xie Shengrong , Wu Xiaoyu , Chen Dongdong , Sun Yaohui , Zeng Junchao , Zhang Qing , Ji Chunwei , Cheng Qiong , Wang En , Ren Yuxin
Published: December 2019

Automatic roadways on gob-side entry retaining with no-pillars are used for longwall mining technology. The mining technology with no-pillars can recover coal pillar resources and reduce the amount and cost of roadway excavations. Automatic roadway technology for cutting roofs by combined support on gob-side entry retaining with no-pillars is adopted for the condition of thick immediate roof and medium-thick coal seam mining, cutting off the immediate roof and the main roof on the gob by combined support. The fractured roof forms gangue blocks to fill the gob and loads the overlying strata. The gangue control system is placed on the roadside, which controls the caving gangue to form a gangue rib. In this paper, the viewpoints and key technologies (the roof-cutting technology, the reinforcement and support technology, the gangue rib control technology, and the auxiliary support technology) of automatic roadway technology for cutting roofs by combined support on the gob-side entry retaining with no-pillars are introduced. Furthermore, the formation and control process are explained. The numerical simulation is used to simulate and analyze the roof hanging and the roof cutting structures. In addition, a field engineering test is performed. The field test shows that automatic roadway technology for cutting roofs by combined support on gob-side entry retaining with no-pillars is feasible. This process uses construction techniques and technologies to meet on-site production needs. The combined support has high resistance strength and is shrinkable. In engineering applications, the combined support has a low damage rate. The deformation of the automatic roadway with gob-side entry retaining is small, and the control effect is significant.
Hepatic Artery Pseudoaneurysm in the Liver Transplant Recipient: A Case Series
Authors: St. Michel David P. , Goussous Naeem , Orr Nathalie L. , Barth Rolf N. , Gray Stephen H. , LaMattina John C. , Bruno David A.
Published: December 2019

Introduction. Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm is a rare and potentially fatal complication of liver transplantation with a reported incidence of 0.3–2.6% and associated mortality approaching 75%. Clinical presentation typically includes sudden hypotension, gastrointestinal bleed or abnormal liver function tests within two months of transplantation. We report a series of four cases of hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm in adult liver transplant recipients with the goal of identifying factors that may aid in early diagnosis, prior to the development of life threatening complications. Methods. A retrospective chart review at a high volume transplant center revealed 4 cases of hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm among 553 liver transplants (Incidence 0.72%) between March 2013 and March 2017. Results. Two of the four patients died immediately after intervention, one patient survived an additional 151 days prior to death from an unrelated condition and one patient survived at two years follow up. All cases utilized multiple imaging modalities that failed to identify the pseudoaneurysm prior to diagnosis with computed tomography angiography (CTA). Two cases had culture proven preoperative intrabdominal infections, while the remaining two cases manifested a perioperative course highly suspicious for infection (retransplant for hepatic necrosis after hepatic artery thrombosis and infected appearing vessel at reoperation, respectively). Three of the four cases either had a delayed biliary anastomosis or development of a bile leak, leading to contamination of the abdomen with bile. Additionally, three of the four cases demonstrated at least one episode of hypotension with acute anemia at least 5 days prior to diagnosis of the hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm. Conclusions. Recognition of several clinical features may increase the early identification of hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm in liver transplant recipients. These include culture proven intrabdominal infection or high clinical suspicion for infection, complicated surgical course resulting either in delayed performance of biliary anastomosis or a biliary leak, and an episode of hypotension with acute anemia. In combination, the presence of these characteristics can lead the clinician to investigate with appropriate imaging prior to the onset of life threatening complications requiring emergent intervention. This may lead to increased survival in patients with this life threatening complication.
Inhibition of Haspin Kinase Promotes Cell-Intrinsic and Extrinsic Antitumor Activity
Authors: Melms Johannes C. , Vallabhaneni Sreeram , Mills Caitlin E. , Yapp Clarence , Chen Jia-Yun , Morelli Eugenio , Waszyk Patricia , Kumar Sushil , Deming Derrick , Moret Nienke , Rodriguez Steven , Subramanian Kartik , Rogava Meri , Cartwright Adam N.R. , Luoma Adrienne , Mei Shaolin , Brinker Titus J. , Miller David M. , Spektor Alexander , Schadendorf Dirk , Riggi Nicolo , Wucherpfennig Kai W. , Sorger Peter K. , Izar Benjamin
Published: December 2019

Patients with melanoma resistant to RAF/MEK inhibitors (RMi) are frequently resistant to other therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), and individuals succumb to their disease. New drugs that control tumor growth and favorably modulate the immune environment are therefore needed. We report that the small-molecule CX-6258 has potent activity against both RMi-sensitive (RMS) and -resistant (RMR) melanoma cell lines. Haspin kinase (HASPIN) was identified as a target of CX-6258. HASPIN inhibition resulted in reduced proliferation, frequent formation of micronuclei, recruitment of cGAS, and activation of the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)–stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway. In murine models, CX-6258 induced a potent cGAS-dependent type-I IFN response in tumor cells, increased IFNγ-producing CD8+ T cells, and reduced Treg frequency in vivo. HASPIN was more strongly expressed in malignant compared with healthy tissue and its inhibition by CX-6258 had minimal toxicity in ex vivo–expanded human tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), proliferating TILs, and in vitro differentiated neurons, suggesting a potential therapeutic index for anticancer therapy. Furthermore, the activity of CX-6258 was validated in several Ewing sarcoma and multiple myeloma cell lines. Thus, HASPIN inhibition may overcome drug resistance in melanoma, modulate the immune environment, and target a vulnerability in different cancer lineages.

Significance:

HASPIN inhibition by CX-6258 is a novel and potent strategy for RAF/MEK inhibitor–resistant melanoma and potentially other tumor types. HASPIN inhibition has direct antitumor activity and induces a favorable immune microenvironment.
A novel single-phase PWM asymmetrical multilevel inverter with number of semiconductor switches reduction
Authors: Kakar S. , Ayob S. M. , Nordin N. M. , Arif M. S. , Jusoh A. , Muhamad N. D.
Published: December 2019

In this paper, a new asymmetrical multilevel inverter topology (MLI) is proposed with the objectives of using decreased number of semiconductor switches, dc voltage sources, gate driver circuits and dc links. The structure of presented MLI is very simple and modular. The fundamental module of this structure consists of nine semiconductor switches (eight unidirectional and one bidirectional) and four asymmetrical configured DC sources (ratio of 1:2), which can generate 13-level output voltage. To validate the design, a Matlab-Simulink based model is developed. For this paper, a Sinusoidal Pulse Width Modulation (SPWM) is deployed as the switching strategy of the proposed MLI. The circuit model is simulated under pure resistive and inductive loads. It will be shown that the circuit performs well under both loads. Comparison with traditional MLIs and other recently introduced MLIs will be conducted to show the superiority of the proposed MLI in terms of reduced number of devices and lower voltage stress across the switches.
Thermal oxidation improvement in semiconductor wafer fabrication
Authors: Mahandran Christopher Julian , Fatah Abdul Yasser Abd , Bani Nurul Aini , Kaidi Hazilah Mad , Muhtazaruddin Mohd Nabil Bin , Amran Mohd Effendi
Published: December 2019

Thermal oxidation is a process done to grow a layer of oxide on the surface of a silicon wafer at elevated temperatures to form silicon dioxide. Usually, it en- counters instability in oxide growth and results in variation in the oxide thickness formed.  This leads to downtime of furnace and wafer scrap.  This study focuses on the factors leading to this phenomenon and finding the optimum settings of these factors. The factors that cause instability to oxide thickness were narrowed down to location of wafer in furnace, oxidation time, gas flow rate and temperature. Characterization and optimization were done using Design of Experiments. Full factorial design was implemented using 4 factors and 2 levels, resulting in 16 runs. Data analysis was done using Multiple Regression Analysis in JMP software. Actual versus predicted plot is examined to determine whether the model fit is significant. Adjusted R2 value was obtained at 99.8% or 0.998 indicating that there is very minimal variation of the data not explained by the model and thus confirming that the model is good. From the effect test, the factors were narrowed down from 4 factors to 3 factors. Location factor was found to have no impact. Significant factors that have impact are gas flow rate, oxidation time and temperature. Analyzing the leverage plots and least square mean plots, temperature was found to have the highest impact on oxide thickness. The model was further analyzed using prediction profiler in JMP to find the optimum settings for thermal oxidation process to meet the target oxide thickness of 8000A. Optimum setting for temperature was found to be at 958 C, gas flow rate at low flow rate (H2:6.5 slm and O2:4.5 slm), oxidation time at 280 min and location of wafers at both zone 1 and zone 2.
Three-phase photovoltaic grid inverter system design based on PIC24FJ256GB110 for distributed generation
Authors: Hasan Ihsan Jabbar , Salih Nahla Abdul Jalil , Abdulkhaleq Nadhir Ibrahim
Published: December 2019

In recent years, the demand for energy generated by photovoltaics has increased because of the cheapness of this energy, especially in the Middle East. This study focuses on the design and implementation of a three-phase photovoltaic inverter system for distribution of generator applications. The three-phase inverter used in this study was designed using GWM 100-01X1 as a three-phase full bridge MOSFET package. The MOSFET full bridge of the three-phase inverter is driven using IR2104 gate driver IC, and the Hall sensors of the voltage and current are used to measure the AC and DC voltage and current. The SPWM signal is generated using a PIC24FJ256GB110 as a microcontroller and interfaced to the full bridge package. Simulation and experimental results are presented to validate the three-phase inverter design.
Novel DTC induction machine drive improvement using controlled rectifier for DC voltage tuning
Authors: Mohamed Nour , Hamza Tedjini , Brahim Gasbaoui
Published: December 2019

The application of the direct torque control strategy for induction machine drives is mainly characterized by torque and flux distortions caused by voltage vector limitation. The goal of this paper is to perform the conventional DTC induction machine drives and reduce ripples of both flux and torque response. The proposed contribution is based on the control of the DC output side of the rectifier feeding the voltage source inverter by means of PI controller in order to adapt the voltage vector used in typical DTC switching table. Mathematic models are built using MATLAB Simulink and programming environment; the simulation results show the difference between the proposed method and classical DTC.
Photovoltaic fed multilevel inverter using reverse voltage topology for standalone systems
Authors: Doss M. Arun Noyal , Mohanraj K , Bhattacharjee Sayantan , Tiwari Maulik , Vashishtha Devashish
Published: December 2019

Multilevel Inverters are generally utilized for medium voltage and high power applications. Invented in 1975, MLIs have brought huge change in the field of Electrical and Electronics. It contains distinctive topologies. This paper proposes a photovoltaic aided multilevel inverter with Reverse Voltage topology with diminished number of switches. In comparison to other existing topologies this topology utilizes minimum number of switches and less number of carrier signals which in turns diminishes the complexity of the system as well as cost. The proposed framework contains five MOSFETs, five diodes to create eleven levels. In this topology the SPWM strategy has been utilized. This topology utilizes one sine wave and five triangular waves, which is half in comparison to the existing topologies. As sustainable power sources can be utilized for multilevel inverter, photovoltaic cell has been utilized. The MATLAB recreation for both solar powered module and Multilevel inverter has been appeared alongside the equipment approach.
Conceptual study on Grid-to-Vehicle (G2V) wireless power transfer using single-phase matrix converter
Authors: Zamani Muhammad Qusyairi Iqbal Mohd , Baharom Rahimi , Johari Dalina
Published: December 2019

This paper presents the conceptual study on grid-to-electric vehicle (G2V) wireless power transfer (WPT) using Single Phase Matrix Converter (SPMC). In this work, the SPMC is used as a direct AC to AC converter to convert the input supply voltage at 50 Hz frequency to the output of 20 kHz to meet the WPT switching frequency operation of the transmitter and receiver coils. The high frequency AC voltage of the receiver coil is then rectified to a DC form by using SPMC. Through the proposed system, the battery of an electric car can be charged wirelessly, thus removing the annoying wires of the conventional electric vehicle charging system. The reduction in size of the charging system, power losses and optimum efficiency are among the advantages of the proposed system. MATLAB/Simulink (MLS) has been used to simulate the proposed model. Selected simulation result are presented to verify the proposed work.
Experimental Verification of Three phase quasi Switched Boost Inverter with an Improved PWM Control
Authors: Palanidoss Sriramalakshmi , V.T. Sreedevi
Published: December 2019

In this paper, an experimental investigation of a three phase quasi Switched Boost Inverter (qSBI) topology is proposed and analysed with an improved Pulse Width Modulation strategy. The qSBI is capable of providing both boost and inversion actions in a single stage. The improved PWM control technique can provide a higher boost with the reduced duty ratio. The theoretical analysis presented in this work is validated using an experimental set up of 100W qSBI topology and hardware results are shown for verification. The improved PWM strategy is implemented and firing pulses are generated in FPGA SPARTAN 3E kit. With the duty ratio of 0.05, the peak ac load voltage of 80 V is obtained. The performance of three phase qSBI is analysed with both conventional PWM strategy and improved PWM strategy. The observations are presentated in detail.
Battery management system on electric bike using Lithium-Ion 18650
Authors: Soeprapto Soeprapto , Hasanah Rini Nur , Taufik Taufik
Published: December 2019

Electric bike (E-Bike) is a bicycle driven using an electric motor and uses batteries as the energy source. It is environmentally friendly as no exhaust gas is resulted during its operation. More than one battery is normally required, being arranged in series or in parallel connection. Over limit or overloaded conditions of battery usage will reduce the lifecycle of battery, speed up its replacement and add to the maintenance cost of electric bike. This paper proposes the prevention of such degrading condition using a tool to manage the battery usage both during the charging and discharging process. The proposed electronic Battery Management System (BMS) serves to regulate, monitor, and maintain the condition of batteries to prevent any possible damage. The resulted BMS design could provide a well balancing action in a battery system consisting of 13 cells utilizing the cell-to-cell active balancing method. The test results showed that the proposed BMS could monitor the individual cell voltage with an average error of 0.032 V (0.824%), while reading the charge and discharge current with an average error of 0.04 A (6.25%), and the battery pack temperature with an average error of 1.21oC (2.9%). Additionally, the BMS could offer a functional battery pack protection system from conditions such as undervoltage, overvoltage, overheat, and overcurrent.