bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Data Reduction Techniques to Dynamic Condition Monitoring of an Axial Piston Pump
Authors: Wiens Travis , Fernandes Jon
Published: December 2019

Condition monitoring of axial piston pumps has seen considerable research in recent years, due to the attractive economic benefits of predictive pump maintenance rather than unscheduled failures. Often the health of the pump is well correlated to leakage, but directly measuring flow can be expensive and unreliable. Instead, some researchers have proposed using dynamic pressure measurements to infer leakage parameters, with some success. One of the major impediments to widespread adoption of this method is that large volumes of data are required to generate a useful model relating the dynamic measurements to leakage parameters, typically with high sensitivity to noise and prone to overfitting. This paper applies data dimensionality reduction techniques to this problem and evaluates their usefulness using a simulation study.
Physical Education Teachers’ Use of Digital Game Design Principles
Authors: Pill Shane , Hyndman Brendon , SueSee Brendan , Williams John
Published: December 2019

Purpose: The research applies a multidisciplinary perspective to create knowledge and insight about the opportunities that digital game design principles offer to physical education (PE) pedagogy. Methods: Data were initially collected through an appreciative inquiry (AI). AI offers an alternative research perspective to critical theory that has dominated the investigation of the work of PE teachers. This study uniquely used AI with a narrative approach and multidisciplinary analysis to examine two teachers’ use of digital game design pedagogy in PE. Results: It was found that the teachers were motivated to use digital game design principles to provide students with means to solve problems, manage learning motivations, evaluate progress, and gain control over their learning in ways that are not normally associated with the common PE method. Conclusion: The two examples provided illustrate the generative potential of AI research combined with a multidisciplinary perspective directed at examples of pedagogical change in PE.
A Systematic Analysis of Research on Teaching in Physical Education: Two Decades of Progress
Authors: Marttinen Risto , Landi Dillon , Novak Dario , Silverman Stephen
Published: December 2019

Purpose: We aimed to identify, categorize, and analyze published peer-reviewed research on teaching in physical education between July 1994 and December 2015.Methods: An exhaustive search was conducted on three databases (Education Resources Information Center, PE Index, and Web of Science), which produced 18,966 abstracts that were reduced to 1,023 articles that met the inclusion criteria through a review of abstracts and titles, and the second review of full papers. Articles were coded independently for numerous aspects of the research method by three coders, with multiple checks for interobserver agreement, all of which were above .85 interobserver agreement.Results: There was a great increase in the number of articles, methodological diversity, and research focus compared with a previous analysis. Research was published in 183 journals and by researchers in 45 different countries. Challenges in maintaining quality over quantity and the growth of the field are discussed.Conclusion: Research on teaching in physical education has grown greatly, and the field has matured.
Performance of Zika Assays in the Context of Toxoplasma gondii, Parvovirus B19, Rubella Virus, and Cytomegalovirus (TORCH) Diagnostic Assays
Authors: Voordouw Bettie , Rockx Barry , Jaenisch Thomas , Fraaij Pieter , Mayaud Philippe , Vossen Ann , Koopmans Marion
Published: December 2019

Infections during pregnancy that may cause congenital abnormalities have been recognized for decades, but their diagnosis is challenging. This was again illustrated with the emergence of Zika virus (ZIKV), highlighting the inherent difficulties in estimating the extent of pre- and postnatal ZIKV complications because of the difficulties in establishing definitive diagnoses.
Glycoprotein C of Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Shields Glycoprotein B from Antibody Neutralization
Authors: Komala Sari Tri , Gianopulos Katrina A. , Nicola Anthony V.
Published: December 2019

HSV-1 causes lifelong infection in the human population and can be fatal in neonatal and immunocompromised individuals. There is no vaccine or cure, in part due to the ability of HSV to escape the host immune response by various mechanisms. The HSV particle contains at least 15 envelope proteins, four of which are required for entry and replication. This work suggests a novel role for gC in shielding the HSV entry glycoproteins. gC may function to help HSV escape neutralization by antibodies.
Staphylococcal Virulence Factors on the Skin of Atopic Dermatitis Patients
Authors: Moran Mary C. , Cahill Michael P. , Brewer Matthew G. , Yoshida Takeshi , Knowlden Sara , Perez-Nazario Nelissa , Schlievert Patrick M. , Beck Lisa A.
Published: December 2019

For the first time, we show that secreted staphylococcal virulence factors can be quantified at the protein level directly from skin swabs obtained from the skin of atopic dermatitis patients. This technique eliminates the need to culture
Staphylococcus aureus
and then test the strain’s potential to produce secreted virulence factors. Our methodology shows that secreted virulence factors are present on the skin of atopic patients and provides a more accurate means of evaluating the physiological impact of
S. aureus
in inflammatory diseases such as atopic dermatitis.
Diffusion tensor imaging in neonatal encephalopathy: a systematic review
Authors: Dibble Megan , O"Dea Mary Isabel , Hurley Tim , Byrne Angela , Colleran Gabrielle , Molloy Eleanor J , Bokde Arun Lawrence Warren
Published: December 2019

Background and objective

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) during the first few days of life can be used to assess brain injury in neonates with neonatal encephalopathy (NE) for outcome prediction. The goal of this review was to identify specific white matter tracts of interest that can be quantified by DTI as being altered in neonates with this condition, and to investigate its potential prognostic ability.

Methods

Searches of Medline and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were conducted to identify studies with diffusion data collected in term-born neonates with NE.

Results

19 studies were included which described restricted diffusion in encephalopathic neonates as compared with healthy controls, with the posterior limb of the internal capsule and the genu and splenium of the corpus callosum identified as particular regions of interest. Restricted diffusion was related to adverse outcomes in the studies that conducted a follow-up of these infants.

Conclusions

Obtaining diffusion measures in these key white matter tracts early in life before pseudonormalisation can occur can not only identify the extent of the damage but also can be used to examine the effectiveness of treatment and to predict neurodevelopmental outcome.
Hyponatraemia: the importance of obtaining a detailed history and corroborating point-of-care analysis with laboratory testing
Authors: Lim Su Yin , Bodagh Neil , Scott Gregory , Hill Neil E
Published: December 2019

We describe a 67-year-old man admitted from a mental health unit with an incidental finding of hyponatraemia on routine blood tests. Laboratory investigations were in keeping with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH). He had been recently commenced on mirtazapine. During his inpatient stay, he became increasingly confused. Review of a previous admission with hyponatraemia raised the possibility of voltage-gated potassium channel antibody-associated limbic encephalitis, although subsequent investigations deemed this unlikely as a cause of hyponatraemia. Although his sodium levels improved with fluid restriction, serial point-of-care testing proved misleading in monitoring the efficacy of treatment as inconsistencies were seen in comparison with laboratory testing. The cause of hyponatraemia may have been medication-induced SIADH and/or polydipsia. This case highlights the importance of collating detailed histories and laboratory blood testing to guide management in cases of hyponatraemia of unknown aetiology.
Sore throat turned to be a bronchogenic carcinoma with superior vena cava syndrome
Authors: Elmoheen Amr , Eltawagny Mahmoud , Elmesery Ahmed , Bashir Khalid
Published: December 2019

Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome is a group of symptoms caused by complete or partial obstruction of the flow of blood through the SVC. The obstruction is, in most cases, caused by the formation of thrombus or infiltration of a tumour through the vessel wall. The result is venous congestion that creates a clinical situation relating to increase in the venous pressure in the upper part of the body. Symptoms commonly associated with vena cava syndrome include cough, dyspnoea, swelling of the neck, face and the upper extremities and dilation of the chest vein collaterals. In this paper, we examine the case of a 50-year-old man who presented to the emergency department with ‘sore throat’ which can be easily misdiagnosed as a case of uncomplicated acute pharyngitis. It was a real challenge to diagnose our patient as SVC syndrome caused by bronchogenic carcinoma.
Robotic-assisted laparoscopic resection of a primary renal neuroendocrine carcinoma
Authors: Srivatsav Ashwin , Balasubramanian Adithya , Scovell Jason , Mayer Wesley
Published: December 2019

Primary renal neuroendocrine carcinomas (RNC) are extremely rare urological neoplasms, with fewer than 100 cases reported in the literature. There are no established protocols concerning diagnosis and treatment, and there is no definitive data on prognosis. Here, we report the findings of a 54-year-old woman who presented with intermittent back pain due to a large mass, which was initially suspected to be a renal cell or upper tract urothelial carcinoma. The patient underwent robotic-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy and lymph node dissection without complications. Pathology revealed an RNC with local metastases to para-aortic lymph nodes without evidence of another primary origin. Subsequent surveillance showed no evidence of disease until 48-month follow-up imaging revealed a liver lesion suspicious for possible metastatic cancer. This report represents the second documented usage of robot-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy for RNC and the longest follow-up in the literature. We review the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of patients with RNC.
Mechanism of fluid leak in non-traumatic corneal perforations: an anterior segment optical coherence tomography study
Authors: AlMaazmi Amna , Said Dalia G , Messina Marco , AlSaadi Ahmed , Dua Harminder Singh
Published: December 2019

Aim

Non-traumatic corneal perforations (CPerfs) may present with shallow/flat or formed anterior chamber (AC). This study uses anterior segment optical coherence tomography (ASOCT) to ascertain these differences.

Method

The study included 14 eyes of 13 patients. They underwent high-resolution ASOCT scans at multiple time points, prior to and after cyanoacrylate glueing, between January 2016 and July 2018. A retrospective analysis of over 2500 ASOCT sections and AS photographs was conducted by two independent observers. The findings were correlated with clinical features and diagnoses.

Result

All patients had documented Seidel’s positive sign at the outset. Two groups with distinctive features were identified. In group 1, ‘formed’ AC, there was hydration of the cornea with lamellar separation of the stroma, intrastromal pockets of fluid, epithelial bullae and an indirect communication between AC and the exterior. In group 2, ‘flat’ AC, the corneal hydration was less obvious, there were no pockets of intrastromal fluid, no epithelial bullae and a direct communication of the AC with the exterior. After glueing, the stromal hydration resolved, and healing occurred beneath the glue. The glue and corneal blood vessels consistently cast a dense shadow posteriorly on ASOCT.

Conclusion

ASOCT demonstrates that leaking CPerfs can be indirect or direct. The former is associated with a ‘formed’ AC and the latter with a very shallow/flat AC. The valvular nature of the communication in indirect perforations allows the AC to maintain its volume despite a continuous leak.
Implementing a junior high school-based programme to reduce sports injuries through neuromuscular training (iSPRINT): a cluster randomised controlled trial (RCT)
Authors: Emery Carolyn A , van den Berg Carla , Richmond Sarah Ann , Palacios-Derflingher Luz , McKay Carly D , Doyle-Baker Patricia K , McKinlay Megan , Toomey Clodagh M , Nettel-Aguirre Alberto , Verhagen Evert , Belton Kathy , Macpherson Alison , Hagel Brent E
Published: December 2019

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of a junior high school-based sports injury prevention programme to reduce injuries through neuromuscular training (NMT).

Methods

This was a cluster randomised controlled trial. Students were recruited from 12 Calgary junior high schools (2014–2017). iSPRINT is a 15 min NMT warm-up including aerobic, agility, strength and balance exercises. Following a workshop, teachers delivered a 12-week iSPRINT NMT (six schools) or a standard-of-practice warm-up (six schools) in physical education classes. The definition of all recorded injuries included injuries that resulted in participants being unable to complete a sport and recreation (S&R) session, lost time from sport and/or seek medical attention. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were estimated based on multiple multilevel Poisson regression analyses (adjusting for sex (considering effect modification) and previous injury, offset by S&R participation hours, and school-level and class-level random effects were examined) for intent-to-treat analyses.

Results

1067 students (aged 11–16) were recruited across 12 schools (6 intervention schools (22 classes), 6 control schools (27 classes); 53.7% female, 46.3% male). The iSPRINT programme was protective of all recorded S&R injuries for girls (IRR=0.543, 95% CI 0.295 to 0.998), but not for boys (IRR=0.866, 95% CI 0.425 to 1.766). The iSPRINT programme was also protective of each of lower extremity injuries (IRR=0.357, 95% CI 0.159 to 0.799) and medical attention injuries (IRR=0.289, 95% CI 0.135 to 0.619) for girls, but not for boys (IRR=1.055, 95% CI 0.404 to 2.753 and IRR=0.639, 95% CI 0.266 to 1.532, respectively).

Conclusion

The iSPRINT NMT warm-up was effective in preventing each of all recorded injuries, lower extremity injuries and medically treated S&R injuries in female junior high school students.

Trial registration number

NCT03312504
USF1 defect drives p53 degradation duringHelicobacter pyloriinfection and accelerates gastric carcinogenesis
Authors: Costa Lionel , Corre Sébastien , Michel Valérie , Le Luel Krysten , Fernandes Julien , Ziveri Jason , Jouvion Gregory , Danckaert Anne , Mouchet Nicolas , Da Silva Barreira David , Torres Javier , Camorlinga Margarita , D'Elios Mario Milco , Fiette Laurence , De Reuse Hilde , Galibert Marie-Dominique , Touati Eliette
Published: December 2019

Objective

Helicobacter pylori(Hp) is a major risk factor for gastric cancer (GC).Hppromotes DNA damage and proteasomal degradation of p53, the guardian of genome stability.Hpreduces the expression of the transcription factor USF1 shown to stabilise p53 in response to genotoxic stress. We investigated whetherHp-mediated USF1 deregulation impacts p53-response and consequently genetic instability. We also explored in vivo the role of USF1 in gastric carcinogenesis.

Design

Human gastric epithelial cell lines were infected withHp7.13, exposed or not to a DNA-damaging agent camptothecin (CPT), to mimic a genetic instability context. We quantified the expression ofUSF1,p53and their target genes, we determined their subcellular localisation by immunofluorescence and examined USF1/p53 interaction.Usf1-/-and INS-GAS mice were used to strengthen the findings in vivo and patient data examined for clinical relevance.

Results

In vivo we revealed the dominant role of USF1 in protecting gastric cells againstHp-induced carcinogenesis and its impact on p53 levels. In vitro,Hpdelocalises USF1 into foci close to cell membranes.Hpprevents USF1/p53 nuclear built up and relocates these complexes in the cytoplasm, thereby impairing their transcriptional function.Hpalso inhibits CPT-induced USF1/p53 nuclear complexes, exacerbating CPT-dependent DNA damaging effects.

Conclusion

Our data reveal that the depletion of USF1 and its de-localisation in the vicinity of cell membranes are essential events associated to the genotoxic activity ofHpinfection, thus promoting gastric carcinogenesis. These findings are also of clinical relevance, supporting USF1 expression as a potential marker of GC susceptibility.
Long-term prognosis of ulcerative colitis and its temporal changes between 1986 and 2015 in a population-based cohort in the Songpa-Kangdong district of Seoul, Korea
Authors: Cha Jae Myung , Park Sang Hyoung , Rhee Kyoung Hoon , Hong Sung Noh , Kim Young-Ho , Seo Seung In , Kim Kyung Ho , Jeong Seung Kyu , Lee Ji Hyun , Park Sun Yong , Park Hyunju , Kim Joo Sung , Im Jong Pil , Yoon Hyuk , Kim Sung Hoon , Jang Jisun , Kim Jeong Hwan , Suh Seong O , Kim Young Kyun , Ye Byong Duk , Yang Suk-Kyun
Published: December 2019

Objective

No population-based study has evaluated the natural course of UC over three decades in non-Caucasians. We aimed to assess the long-term natural course of Korean patients with UC in a population-based cohort.

Design

This Korean population-based, Songpa-Kangdong IBD cohort included all patients (n=1013) newly diagnosed with UC during 1986–2015. Disease outcomes and their predictors were evaluated.

Results

During the median follow-up of 105 months, the overall use of systemic corticosteroids, thiopurines and antitumour necrosis factor (anti-TNF) agents was 40.8%, 13.9% and 6.5%, respectively. Over time, the cumulative risk of commencing corticosteroids decreased, whereas that of commencing thiopurines and anti-TNF agents increased. During follow-up, 28.7% of 778 patients with proctitis or left-sided colitis at diagnosis experienced proximal disease extension. A total of 28 patients (2.8%) underwent colectomy, demonstrating cumulative risks of colectomy at 1, 5, 10, 20 and 30 years after diagnosis of 1.0%, 1.9%, 2.2%, 5.1% and 6.4%, respectively. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that extensive colitis at diagnosis (HR 8.249, 95% CI 2.394 to 28.430), ever use of corticosteroids (HR 6.437, 95% CI 1.440 to 28.773) and diagnosis in the anti-TNF era (HR 0.224, 95% CI 0.057 to 0.886) were independent predictors of colectomy. The standardised mortality ratio in patients with UC was 0.725 (95% CI 0.508 to 1.004).

Conclusion

Korean patients with UC may have a better clinical course than Western patients, as indicated by a lower colectomy rate. The overall colectomy rate has continued to decrease over the past three decades.
Sickle cell disease: at the crossroads of pulmonary hypertension and diastolic heart failure
Authors: Wood Katherine C , Gladwin Mark T , Straub Adam C
Published: December 2019

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is caused by a single point mutation in the gene that codes for beta globin synthesis, causing haemoglobin polymerisation, red blood cell stiffening and haemolysis under low oxygen and pH conditions. Downstream effects include widespread vasculopathy due to recurring vaso-occlusive events and haemolytic anaemia, affecting all organ systems. Cardiopulmonary complications are the leading cause of death in patients with SCD, primarily resulting from diastolic heart failure (HF) and/or pulmonary hypertension (PH). HF in SCD often features biventricular cardiac hypertrophy and left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction. Among HF cases in the general population, approximately half occur with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The insidious evolution of HFpEF differs from the relatively acute evolution of HF with reduced ejection fraction. The PH of SCD has diverse origins, which can be pulmonary arterial (precapillary), pulmonary venous (postcapillary) or pulmonary thromboembolic. It is also appreciated that patients with SCD can develop both precapillary and postcapillary PH, with elevations in LV diastolic pressures, as well as elevations in transpulmonary pressure gradient and pulmonary vascular resistance. Regardless of the cause of PH in SCD, its presence significantly reduces functional capacity and increases mortality. PH that occurs in the presence of HFpEF is usually of postcapillary origin. This review aims to assemble what has been learnt from clinical and animal studies about the manifestation of PH-HFpEF in SCD, specifically the contributions of LV diastolic dysfunction and myocardial fibrosis, in an attempt to gain an understanding of its evolution.
Valve regurgitation in patients surviving endocarditis and the subsequent risk of heart failure
Authors: Østergaard Lauge , Dahl Anders , Bruun Niels Eske , Oestergaard Louise Bruun , Lauridsen Trine Kiilerich , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Mortensen Rikke , Smerup Morten , Valeur Nana , Koeber Lars , Hassager Christian , Ihlemann Nikolaj , Fosbøl Emil Loldrup
Published: December 2019

Background

Significant valve regurgitation is common in patients surviving native valve infective endocarditis (IE), however the associated risk of heart failure (HF) subsequent to hospital discharge after IE is sparsely described.

Methods

We linked data from the East Danish Endocarditis Registry with administrative registries from 2002 to 2016 and included patients treated medically for IE who were discharged alive. Left-sided valve regurgitation was assessed by echocardiography at IE discharge and examined for longitudinal risk of HF. Multivariable adjusted Cox analysis was used to assess the associated risk of HF in patients with regurgitation (moderate or severe) compared with patients without regurgitation.

Results

We included 192 patients, 87 patients with regurgitation at discharge (30 with aortic regurgitation and 57 with mitral regurgitation) and 105 patients without. The cumulative risk of HF at 5 years of follow-up was 28.7% in patients with regurgitation at IE discharge and 12.4% in patients without regurgitation; the corresponding multivariable adjusted HR was 3.53 (95% CI 1.72 to 7.25). We identified an increased associated risk of HF for patients with aortic regurgitation (HR=2.91, 95% CI 1.14 to 7.43) and mitral regurgitation (HR=3.95, 95% CI 1.80 to 8.67) compared with patients without regurgitation. During follow-up, 21.9% and 5.7% underwent left-sided valve surgery among patients with and without regurgitation.

Conclusion

In patients surviving IE, treated medically, we observed that severe or moderate left-sided native valve regurgitation was associated with a significantly higher risk of HF compared with patients without regurgitation at IE discharge. Close monitoring of these patients is needed to initiate surgery timely.
Multicentre study on the consistency of PD-L1 immunohistochemistry as predictive test for immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Butter Rogier , 't Hart Nils A , Hooijer Gerrit K J , Monkhorst Kim , Speel Ernst-Jan , Theunissen Paul , Thunnissen Erik , Von der Thüsen Jan H , Timens Wim , van de Vijver Marc J
Published: December 2019

Aims

Investigate the impact of interlaboratory- and interobserver variability of immunohistochemistry on the assessment of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Two tissue microarrays (TMAs) were constructed from 50 (TMA-A) and 51 (TMA-B) resected NSCLC cases, and distributed among eight centres. Immunostaining for PD-L1 was performed using Agilent’s 22C3 pharmDx Assay (pharmDx) and/or a 22C3 laboratory developed test (LDT). The interlaboratory variability of staining- and interobserver variability of scoring for PD-L1 were assessed in selected critical samples (samples at the cut-off of positivity) and non-critical samples. Also, PD-L1 epitope deterioration in time in stored unstained slides was analysed. Krippendorff’s alpha values (0=maximal, 1=no variability) were calculated as measure for variability.

Results

For interlaboratory variability of immunostaining, the percentage of PD-L1 positive cases among centres ranged 40%–51% (1% cut-off) and 23%–30% (50% cut-off). Alpha values at 1% cut-off were 0.88 (pharmDx) and 0.87 (LDT) and at 50% cut-off 0.82 (pharmDx) and 0.95 (LDT). Interobserver variability of scoring resulted in PD-L1 positive cases ranging 29%–55% (1% cut-off) and 14%–30% (50% cut-off) among pathologists. Alpha values were at 1% cut-off 0.83 (TMA-A) and 0.66 (TMA-B), and at 50% cut-off 0.77 (TMA-A) and 0.78 (TMA-B). Interlaboratory variability of staining was higher (p<0.001) in critical samples than in non-critical samples at 50% cut-off. Furthermore, PD-L1 epitope deterioration in unstained slides was observed after 12 weeks.

Conclusions

The results provide insight in factors contributing to variability of immunohistochemical assessment of PD-L1, and contribute to more reliable predictive testing for PD-L1.
GLUT1-dependent glycolysis regulates exacerbation of fibrosis via AIM2 inflammasome activation
Authors: Cho Soo Jung , Moon Jong-Seok , Nikahira Kiichi , Yun Ha Seon , Harris Rebecca , Hong Kyung Sook , Huang Huarong , Choi Augustine M K , Stout-Delgado Heather
Published: December 2019

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a rapidly progressive, fatal lung disease that affects older adults. One of the detrimental natural histories of IPF is acute exacerbation of IPF (AE-IPF), of which bacterial infection is reported to play an important role. However, the mechanism by which bacterial infection modulates the fibrotic response remains unclear.

Objectives

Altered glucose metabolism has been implicated in the pathogenesis of fibrotic lung diseases. We have previously demonstrated that glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1)-dependent glycolysis regulates fibrogenesis in a murine fibrosis model. To expand on these findings, we hypothesised that GLUT1-dependent glycolysis regulates acute exacerbation of lung fibrogenesis during bacterial infection via AIM2 inflammasome activation.

Results

In our current study, using a murine model ofStreptococcus pneumoniae(S. pneumoniae) infection, we investigated the potential role of GLUT1 on mediating fibrotic responses to an acute exacerbation during bleomycin-induced fibrosis. The results of our current study illustrate that GLUT1 deficiency amelioratesS. pneumoniae-mediated exacerbation of lung fibrosis (wild type (WT)/phosphate buffered saline (PBS), n=3; WT/S. pneumoniae, n=3; WT/Bleomycin, n=5 ; WT/Bleomycin+S. pneumoniae, n=7;LysM-Cre-Glut1fl/f/PBS, n=3;LysM-Cre-Glut1fl/fl/S. pneumoniae, n=3;LysM-Cre-Glut1fl/fl/Bleomycin, n=6;LysM-Cre-Glut1fl/fl/Bleomycin+S. pneumoniae, n=9, p=0.041). Further, the AIM2 inflammasome, a multiprotein complex essential for sensing cytosolic bacterial DNA as a danger signal, is an important regulator of this GLUT1-mediated fibrosis and genetic deficiency of AIM2 reduced bleomycin-induced fibrosis afterS. pneumoniaeinfection (WT/PBS, n=6; WT/Bleomycin+S. pneumoniae, n=15; Aim2−/−/PBS, n=6, Aim2−/−/Bleomycin+S. pneumoniae, n=11, p=0.034). GLUT1 deficiency reduced expression and function of the AIM2 inflammasome, and AIM2-deficient mice showed substantial reduction of lung fibrosis afterS. pneumoniaeinfection.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that GLUT1-dependent glycolysis promotes exacerbation of lung fibrogenesis duringS. pneumoniaeinfection via AIM2 inflammasome activation.
The long-term supply of tobacco and nicotine: some goals, principles and policy implications
Authors: Thomson George W , Hoek Janet , Marsh Louise
Published: December 2019

There is a growing literature on regulating the supply of tobacco products to achieve tobacco-free goals. This article suggests three goals and eight principles that could underpin regulatory approaches to the supply of tobacco and non-prescription nicotine products. The primary principles are that tobacco and nicotine products should not be seen as normal consumer products, should not be supplied for profit, and that the tax revenue from the supply of the products should first be used to reduce tobacco and nicotine use.
The critical state line of nonplastic tailings
Authors: Torres-Cruz L.A. , Santamarina J.C.
Published: December 2019

The probability of failure of tailing dams and associated risks demand improvements in engineering practice. The critical state line provides a robust framework for the characterization of mine tailings. New experimental data for nonplastic platinum tailings and a large database for tailings and nonplastic soils (grain size between 2 and 500 μm) show that the critical state parameters for nonplastic tailings follow the same trends as nonplastic soils as a function of particle-scale characteristics and extreme void ratios. Critical state lines determined for extreme tailings gradations underestimate the range of critical state parameters that may be encountered in a tailings dam; in fact, mixtures with intermediate fines content exhibit the densest granular packing at critical state. The minimum void ratio emin captures the underlying role of particle shape and grain size distribution on granular packing and emerges as a valuable index property to inform sampling strategies for the assessment of spatial variability. Mineralogy does not significantly affect the intercept Γ100, but it does affect the slope λ. The friction coefficients M of tailings are similar to those of other nonplastic soils; while mineralogy does not have a significant effect on friction, more angular grains lead to higher friction coefficients.
An approach to illustrate the naturalness of the Brazilian Araucaria forest
Authors: Oliveira Laio Zimermann , Vibrans Alexander Christian
Published: December 2019

The concept of “naturalness” can be associated with conservation status, resilience, and biodiversity. Its most common definition relates to the degree to which a resource is similar to its original state. Hence, we developed a naturalness assessment method for the Brazilian Araucaria forest. We used data collected within 145 systematically distributed plots over an area of ∼56 000 km2. We selected five indicators to compose a unified naturalness index: (i) evidence of human activities inside the forest stand; (ii) abundance of naturalness-indicator species; (iii) standard deviation of diameter at breast height (Sdbh); (iv) species diversity of the understory–natural regeneration layer; and (v) forest stand landscape metrics. We then calculated the Euclidean distance between the vector generated from the indicators of an ordinary forest stand and the vector generated from a theoretical reference forest (TRF) with maximum naturalness. The reduced Sdbhreflected the stands’ diminished structural diversity as result of historical logging and other ongoing human activities. Most stands presented average naturalness compared with the TRF. Besides the lack of data on undisturbed forests to thoroughly evaluate the naturalness index, evidence suggested that it summarized relevant forest attributes to the extent that protected areas presented greater naturalness than nonprotected areas.
Responses of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities to soil core transplantation across Saskatchewan prairie climatic regions
Authors: Islam M. Nazrul , Germida James J. , Walley Fran L.
Published: December 2019

No information exists on the susceptibility of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) communities in Canadian prairie agriculture soils to climate change. An experiment was initiated in mid-May 2011 in which replicated soil cores were transplanted reciprocally from four cultivated prairie sites in Saskatchewan, Canada, representing different regional climatic zones ranging from semiarid to subhumid regional climates, such that replicated (n = 4) soil cores from each site were present at all sites. Field pea was grown in all cores and at harvest in early-September 2011; soil samples were collected to analyze the changes of AMF communities over the cropping season. A total of 82 operational taxonomic units belonging to eight AMF genera were identified using 18S rRNA gene pyrosequencing. When soils were transplanted to new environments, the relative abundance of AMF changed considerably. Typically, Shannon diversity declined when soil cores were transplanted to new environments. We present evidence that with the altered climatic conditions following transplantation of soil cores, the relative abundance of AMF was significantly altered, and some taxa were enhanced, suppressed, or disappeared in the home-away soils compared with home-site soils. This study implies that the future climate change effects on AMF may impact specific phylogenetic taxa differently, such that rare species or those with low abundance may increase or decrease with unknown consequences. Understanding the potential responses of AMF communities to soil–climate interactions is important when considering the impacts of climate change on soil microbial communities.
Detailed study of performance and emission characteristics of diesel engine fuelled with biodiesel and additive
Authors: Logesh K. , Nagaraj M. , Mageshwaran G. , Durairaj R.B. , Christopher D.
Published: December 2019

The use of biofuels, namely alcohols and biodiesel, leads to lower efficiency and higher nitric oxide (NO) emissions compared with the use of diesel. The objective of this study was to reduce the emissions and enhance the performance from neat coconut oil biodiesel. To begin, the diethyl ether (oxygenated additive, OA) was blended with transesterified coconut oil biodiesel (CBD100). The OA was varied in CBD at 5% and 10% on a volume basis. The results revealed that the addition of the OA to CBD resulted in no phase separation in all working conditions. Further, adding 10% OA to CBD resulted in lower carbon monoxide (1.7%), smoke (2.1%), NO (2.7%), and hydrocarbon (1.9%) emissions than neat CBD. In addition, efficiency increased (1.2%) and fuel consumption lowered (1.3%) by blending the OA with CBD at all loads.
Generalized Ordinal Learning Framework (GOLF) for Decision Making with Future Simulated Data
Authors: Pedrielli Giulia , Selcuk Candan K. , Chen Xilun , Mathesen Logan , Inanalouganji Alireza , Xu Jie , Chen Chun-Hung , Lee Loo Hay
Published: December 2019

Real-time decision making has acquired increasing interest as a means to efficiently operating complex systems. The main challenge in achieving real-time decision making is to understand how to develop next generation optimization procedures that can work efficiently using: (i) real data coming from a large complex dynamical system, (ii) simulation models available that reproduce the system dynamics. While this paper focuses on a different problem with respect to the literature in RL, the methods proposed in this paper can be used as a support in a sequential setting as well. The result of this work is the new Generalized Ordinal Learning Framework (GOLF) that utilizes simulated data interpreting them as low accuracy information to be intelligently collected offline and utilized online once the scenario is revealed to the user. GOLF supports real-time decision making on complex dynamical systems once a specific scenario is realized. We show preliminary results of the proposed techniques that motivate the authors in further pursuing the presented ideas.
From Data to Stochastic Modeling and Decision Making: What Can We Do Better?
Authors: Berkhout Joost , Heidergott Bernd , Lam Henry , Peng Yijie
Published: December 2019

In the past decades we have witnessed a paradigm-shift from scarcity of data to abundance of data. Big data and data analytics have fundamentally reshaped many areas including operations research. In this paper, we discuss how to integrate data with the model-based analysis in a controlled way. Specifically, we consider techniques to quantify input uncertainty and the decision making under input uncertainty. Numerical experiments demonstrate that different ways in decision making may lead to significantly different outcomes in a maintenance problem.
Location-Routing Optimization with Split Demand for Customer Self-Pickup via Data Analysis and Heuristics Search
Authors: Sun Zhuo , Yan Ni , Sun Yining , Li Haobin
Published: December 2019

Customer self-pickup, offered as an option at most distribution centers, can provide flexible service times and save operational costs. Customers can either choose to self-pickup their demand or to have it delivered by a traditional way. At each customer point, the delivery demand is split, with the amount depending on the service and personal characteristics. In this situation, how to efficiently locate distribution centers and route deliveries becomes a vital problem for express companies that has not been studied in the literature. In this paper, for the first time, we propose a mathematical programming model for optimizing the location-routing problem with split demand (LRP-SD), together with a delivery ratio analysis model to predict self-pickup and delivery demand. To adapt the model to real-world cases, two heuristics as used in large-scale simulation-based optimization are devised and implemented. One is biogeography-based optimization (BBO) for solution speed, and the other is an adaptive large neighborhood search (ALNS) for solution quality. The two algorithms are compared using real data from a Shanghai-based express delivery company.
Stability and Hopf Bifurcation in a Predator–Prey Model with the Cost of Anti-Predator Behaviors
Authors: Qiao Ting , Cai Yongli , Fu Shengmao , wang Weiming
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we investigate the influence of anti-predator behavior in prey due to the fear of predators with a Beddington–DeAngelis prey–predator model analytically and numerically. We give the existence and stability of equilibria of the model, and provide the existence of Hopf bifurcation. In addition, we investigate the influence of the fear effect on the population dynamics of the model and find that the fear effect can not only reduce the population density of both predator and prey, but also prevent the occurrence of limit cycle oscillation and increase the stability of the system.
Stochastic Sensitivity and Method of Principal Directions in Excitability Analysis of the Hodgkin–Huxley Model
Authors: Bashkirtseva Irina , Ryashko Lev
Published: December 2019

We study the probabilistic behavior of the Hodgkin–Huxley neuron model in the presence of random forcing of the external current parameter. The stochastic excitement in the zone of stable equilibria is illustrated by the statistics of interspike intervals and probabilistic distributions of mixed-mode oscillations. For the parametric analysis of this phenomenon, a constructive method for stochastic sensitivity and confidence ellipsoids is suggested. It is shown how to simplify this analysis using the principal direction approach. A constructive application of this technique is demonstrated by analyzing the stochastic excitement in the Hodgkin–Huxley model.
Complex Networks Approach for Dynamical Characterization of Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Freitas Vander L. S. , Lacerda Juliana C. , Macau Elbert E. N.
Published: December 2019

Bifurcation diagrams and Lyapunov exponents are the main tools for dynamical systems characterization. However, they are often computationally expensive and complex to calculate. We present two approaches for dynamical characterization of nonlinear systems via the generation of an undirected complex network that is built from their time series. Periodic windows and chaos can be detected by analyzing network statistics like average degree, density and betweenness centrality. Results are assessed in two discrete time nonlinear maps.
Planar diagrams for local invariants of graphs in surfaces
Authors: McPhail-Snyder Calvin , Miller Kyle A.
Published: December 2019

In order to apply quantum topology methods to nonplanar graphs, we define a planar diagram category that describes the local topology of embeddings of graphs into surfaces. These virtual graphs are a categorical interpretation of ribbon graphs. We describe an extension of the flow polynomial to virtual graphs, the [Formula: see text]-polynomial, and formulate the [Formula: see text] Penrose polynomial for non-cubic graphs, giving contraction–deletion relations. The [Formula: see text]-polynomial is used to define an extension of the Yamada polynomial to virtual spatial graphs, and with it we obtain a sufficient condition for non-classicality of virtual spatial graphs. We conjecture the existence of local relations for the [Formula: see text]-polynomial at squares of integers.
Identifying Buckling Resistance of Reinforced Concrete Columns During Inelastic Deformation
Authors: Weng Jian , Tan Kang Hai , Lee Chi King
Published: December 2019

A simple solution method to identify buckling resistance of reinforced concrete (RC) columns during inelastic deformation is presented. Unlike conventional buckling solution methods, this proposed method predicts inelastic buckling loads of RC columns by directly solving the equilibrium differential equation under buckling. The method considers specific deflection configuration, end restraint conditions and inelastic material properties of the deformed column. In order to evaluate the reliability and accuracy of the proposed method, the results obtained from the purposed method are compared with the test results of eccentrically loaded RC columns. In addition, by using the proposed solution procedure, a parametric study is conducted to investigate the effects of critical RC column design parameters on column buckling behavior and resistance, including slenderness ratio, concrete strength, as well as longitudinal reinforcement and stirrup ratios. The results of the parametric study show that the proposed method is rational and can be adopted to effectively identify buckling resistance of RC columns subjected to inelastic damage, especially when load redistributions have occurred in the structure during progressive collapse.
A Review on Human-Computer Interaction and Intelligent Robots
Authors: Ren Fuji , Bao Yanwei
Published: December 2019

In the field of artificial intelligence, human–computer interaction (HCI) technology and its related intelligent robot technologies are essential and interesting contents of research. From the perspective of software algorithm and hardware system, these above-mentioned technologies study and try to build a natural HCI environment. The purpose of this research is to provide an overview of HCI and intelligent robots. This research highlights the existing technologies of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and other senses, which are widely used in human interaction. Based on these same technologies, this research introduces some intelligent robot systems and platforms. This paper also forecasts some vital challenges of researching HCI and intelligent robots. The authors hope that this work will help researchers in the field to acquire the necessary information and technologies to further conduct more advanced research.
Adapted Visual Analytics Process for Intelligent Decision-Making: Application in a Medical Context
Authors: Ltifi Hela , Benmohamed Emna , Kolski Christophe , Ben Ayed Mounir
Published: December 2019

The theoretical and practical researches on Visual Analytics for intelligent decision-making tasks have remarkably advanced in the past few years. Intelligent Decision Support Systems (IDSS) introduce effective and efficient paths from raw data to decision by involving visualization and data mining technologies. Data mining-based DSS produces potentially interesting patterns from data. The transition from extracted patterns to knowledge is a delicate task. In this context, we propose to adapt a common visual analytics process for creating a path that enables the user (decision-maker) to automatically explore and visually extract insights by interacting with the patterns. This proposal is inspired from integrating traditional visual analytics concepts with the mental model of knowledge visualization. The idea is to combine an automatic and visual analysis of patterns to generate knowledge for the purpose of decision-making. To validate our proposal, we have applied it to a medical case study for the fight against Nosocomial Infections in Intensive Care Units. The developed platform was evaluated according to the utility and usability dimensions.
Modeling Uncertainty in the Wings Method Using Interval Arithmetic
Authors: Michnik Jerzy , Grabowski Artur
Published: December 2019

This paper introduces a novel approach to support decision-making by combining the Weighted Influence Nonlinear Gauge System (WINGS) method with interval arithmetic. This approach allows to include uncertain judgments and/or different opinions in a decision process. Our research aims at increasing the ability of WINGS to model decisions in situations of uncertainty and at extending the reach of its practical applications. The new, relatively simple and transparent method can become a useful and practical tool for the decision makers. Mathematical correctness of the proposed methodology is proven.

Based on the new method, a procedure for solving a complex decision problem is created. Its applicability is illustrated by two case studies. Choosing the best option for the organization’s competitive position in a health-care organization shows how the proposed method works with uncertain judgments. Its usefulness for group decision-making is illustrated by applying it to a decision concerning allocation of public funds for sport development in a small commune.
Reproducing solutions to PDEs by scaling functions
Authors: Zakharov Victor G.
Published: December 2019

A generalization of the multivariate Strang–Fix conditions to no scale-invariant (only shift-invariant) polynomial spaces multiplied by exponents is introduced. A method to construct nonstationary compactly supported interpolating scaling functions that the scaling functions reproduce polynomials multiplied by exponents is presented. The polynomials (multiplied by exponents) are solutions to systems of linear constant coefficient PDEs, where the symbols of the differential operators that define PDEs can be no scale-invariant and can contain constant terms. Analytically calculated graphs of the scaling functions, including nonstationary, are presented. A concept of the so-called [Formula: see text]-separate MRAs is considered; and it is shown that, in the case of isotropic dilation matrices, the [Formula: see text]-separate scaling functions appear naturally.
How Smart Are Smart Classrooms? A Review of Smart Classroom Technologies
Authors: Saini Mukesh Kumar , Goel Neeraj
Published: December 2019

There has been a large amount of work on smart classrooms spanning over a wide range of research areas including information communication technology, machine learning, sensor networks, mobile computing, and hardware. Consequently, there have been several disparate reviews on various aspects of smart classrooms. Such piecemeal development is not sufficient for a pragmatic smart classroom solution. This article complements the literature by providing a consolidated review of interdisciplinary works under a common nomenclature and taxonomy. This multi-field review has exposed new research opportunities and challenges that need to be addressed for the synergistic integration of interdisciplinary works.