bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Configuration of Vortex Generator for Heat Transfer Enhancement in a Plate-Fin Channel
Authors: Khan Tariq Amin , Li Wei
Published: November 2017

Heat transfer is a naturally occurring phenomenon and its augmentation is a vital research topic for many years. Although, vortex generators (VGs) are widely used to enhance the heat transfer of plate-fin type heat exchangers, few researches deal with its thermal optimization. This work is dedicated to the numerical investigation and optimization of VGs configuration in a plate-fin channel. Three-dimensional (3D) numerical simulations are performed to study the effect of angle of attack and attach angle (angle between VG and wall) and shape of VG on the fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics. The flow is assumed as steady-state, incompressible, and laminar within the range of studied Reynolds numbers (Re = 380–1140). Results are presented in the form average and local Nusselt number and friction factor. The effect of attach angle is highlighted and the results show that the attach angle of 90 deg may not be necessary for enhancing the heat transfer. The flow structure and heat transfer characteristics of certain cases are examined in detail. The parameters of VG are then optimized for maximum heat transfer and minimum pressure drop. The three independent design parameters are considered for the two objective functions. For this purpose, computation fluid dynamics (CFD) data, response surface methodology (RSM) and a multi-objective optimization algorithm (MOA) are combined. The data obtained from numerical simulations are used to train a Bayesian-regularized artificial neural network (BRANN). This in turn is used to drive a MOA to find the optimal parameters of VGs in the form of Pareto front. The optimal values of these parameters are finally presented.
Experimental Study on Heat Transfer Performances of Flat Tube Bank Fin Heat Exchanger Using Four Different Fin Patterns
Authors: Zheng Feng-Cai , Liu Song , Lin Zhi-Min , Nugud Jaafar , Wang Liang-Chen , Chang Li-Min , Wang Liang-Bi
Published: November 2017

Air-side heat transfer and flow friction characteristics of four different fin patterns suitable for flat tube bank fin heat exchangers are investigated experimentally. The fin patterns are the fin with six dimples, the fin with nine dimples, the double louvered fin, and the fin with delta-winglet vortex generators (VGs). The corresponding plain fins (plain fin I and plain fin II) are used as the references for evaluating the thermal performances of these fin patterns under identical pump power constraint. The performance of the fin with the six dimples is better than that with nine dimples. The performance of the fin with delta-winglet VGs is better than that of the double louvered fin, and the performance of the latter is better than that of the fins with six or nine dimples. In the tested Reynolds number range, the heat transfer enhancement performance factor of the fin with six dimples, the fin with nine dimples, the double louvered fin, and the fin with delta-winglet VGs is 1.2–1.3, 1.1–1.2, 1.3–1.6, and 1.4–1.6, respectively. The correlations of Nusselt number and friction factor with Reynolds number for the fins with six/nine dimples and the double louvered fin are obtained. These correlations are useful to design flat tube bank fin heat exchangers.
Adaptive Thermal Management Technique to Improve the Efficiency of SSPA for Geo-Synchronous Satellite
Authors: Doshi R. J. , Ghodgaonkar Deepak
Published: November 2017

This paper presents a novel adaptive thermal management technique to improve the efficiency of solid-state power amplifier (SSPA) for geo-synchronous satellites. The thermal management for space segment is very important as it determines the reliability of the satellite. The microwave power amplifiers (MPAs), either traveling wave tube amplifiers (TWTAs) or SSPAs, are the maximum power consuming and heat dissipative elements in the satellite and their power efficiency determines weight, volume, cost, and reliability of the satellite. So, it is necessary to improve the efficiency of the SSPA. A novel technique is presented, which improves the efficiency of the SSPA and hence, saving of costly DC power generation on-board and reduction of the heat dissipation.
Poisson's Contraction and Fiber Kinematics in Tissue: Insight From Collagen Network Simulations
Authors: Picu R. C. , Deogekar S. , Islam M. R.
Published: November 2017

Connective tissue mechanics is highly nonlinear, exhibits a strong Poisson's effect, and is associated with significant collagen fiber re-arrangement. Although the general features of the stress–strain behavior have been discussed extensively, the Poisson's effect received less attention. In general, the relationship between the microscopic fiber network mechanics and the macroscopic experimental observations remains poorly defined. The objective of the present work is to provide additional insight into this relationship. To this end, results from models of random collagen networks are compared with experimental data on reconstructed collagen gels, mouse skin dermis, and the human amnion. Attention is devoted to the mechanism leading to the large Poisson's effect observed in experiments. The results indicate that the incremental Poisson's contraction is directly related to preferential collagen orientation. The experimentally observed downturn of the incremental Poisson's ratio at larger strains is associated with the confining effect of fibers transverse to the loading direction and contributing little to load bearing. The rate of collagen orientation increases at small strains, reaches a maximum, and decreases at larger strains. The peak in this curve is associated with the transition of the network deformation from bending dominated, at small strains, to axially dominated, at larger strains. The effect of fiber tortuosity on network mechanics is also discussed, and a comparison of biaxial and uniaxial loading responses is performed.
Electrohydrodynamic Casting Bismuth Telluride Microparticle-Loaded Carbon Nanofiber Composite Material With Multiple Sensing Functions
Authors: Gan Yong X. , Chen Ann D. , Gan Jeremy B. , Anderson Kevin R.
Published: November 2017

In this work, an electrohydrodynamic casting approach was used to manufacture a carbon nanofiber (CNF) composite material containing bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) particles. A 10% polyacrylonitrile (PAN) polymer solution was taken as the precursor to generate nanofibers. Bismuth telluride microparticles were added into the polymer solution. The particle-containing solution was electrohydrodynamically cast onto a substrate to form a PAN-based nanofiber composite mat. High temperature heat treatment on the polymeric matrix composite mat in hydrogen atmosphere resulted in the formation of a microparticle-loaded CNF composite material. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis was conducted to observe the morphology and reveal the composition of the composite material. Energy conversion functions in view of converting heat into electricity, electromagnetic wave energy into heat, and photon energy into electricity were shown. Strong Seebeck effect, hyperthermia, and photovoltaics of the composite mat were found. In addition, the potential applications as sensors were discussed.
Three new species of Leipothrix Keifer (Acari: Eriophyidae) from China
Authors: Wang Zhen , Han Xiao , Hong Xiao-Yue
Published: November 2017

In this paper, three new species of the genus Leipothrix from China are described and illustrated: Leipothrix houttuyniae sp. nov. on Houttuynia cordata Thunb. (Saururaceae), Leipothrix rubicordis sp. nov. on Rubia cordifolia L. (Rubiaceae), Leipothrix sambucus sp. nov. on Sambucus javanica Blume (Adoxaceae). All are vagrants causing no apparent damage to their host plants. A key to species of Leipothrix in China are provided.
Morphological ontogeny and ecology of Adoristes ovatus (Acari: Oribatida: Liacaridae), with comments on Adoristes Hull
Authors: Seniczak Anna , Seniczak Stanisław , Kaczmarek Sławomir , Chachaj Bogusław
Published: November 2017

The morphological ontogeny of Adoristes ovatus (C.L. Koch, 1839) is described and illustrated. The adult has the interlamellar seta shorter than the lamella and the translamella is usually absent, but can also be incomplete, or present as a thin line. The juveniles are unpigmented, oval in cross-section, with thin and smooth prodorsal and gastronotal setae, and with the anal opening in the posteroventral position, which is typical of xylophages. The legs and claws of juveniles are relatively thick, especially leg I, and the leg setae are smooth or with short barbs. All juveniles have a sclerotized semicircle located anterior to each prodorsal seta le. The larva has 11 pairs of gastronotal setae, the nymphs have 12 pairs, without the d-series. The mean body length of females is larger than males, but varies greatly among samples (445–735 μm) and the largest females can be 1.5 times longer than the smallest males. The sex ratio and the number of gravid females also vary among samples. We provisionally consider Adoristes (Gordeeviella) Shtanchaeva, Subías & Arillo, 2010 a junior synonym of Adoristes Hull, 1916.
Dicarboxylic acids analyzed by time-of-flight secondary ions mass spectrometry. Part I: Propanedioic acid
Authors: Trindade Gustavo F. , Ferreira Jose M. , Abel Marie-Laure , Baker Mark A. , Watts John F.
Published: November 2017

Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry was carried out to analyze a commercially available propanedioic acid (malonic acid) powder. Positive and negative polarity ion spectra were obtained using a 25 keV Bi3+ ion beam rastered over areas of 50 × 50 μm2. The main observed fragments were the protonated molecule [M+H]+ at 105 Da and the deprotonated molecule [M-H]– at 103 Da with their respective oligomers.
Pitch matching in bimodal cochlear implant patients: Effects of frequency, spectral envelope, and level
Authors: Maarefvand Mohammad , Blamey Peter J. , Marozeau Jeremy
Published: November 2017

This study systematically investigated the effects of frequency, level, and spectral envelope on pitch matching in twelve bimodal cochlear implant (CI) users. The participants were asked to vary the frequency and level of a pure or complex tone (adjustable sounds) presented in the non-implanted ear to match the pitch and loudness of different reference stimuli presented to the implanted ear. Three reference sounds were used: single electrode pulse trains, pure tones, and piano notes. The data showed a significant effect of the frequency and complexity of the reference sounds. No significant effect of the level of the reference sounds was found. The magnitude of effect of frequency was compressed in the implanted ear: on average a difference of seven semitones in the non-implanted ear induced the same pitch change as a difference of 19 to 24 semitones for a stimulus presented to the implanted ear. The spectral envelope of the adjustable sound presented to the non-implanted ear also had a significant effect. The matched frequencies were higher by an average of six semitones for the pure tone compared to a complex tone. Overall, the CI listeners might have matched the stimuli based on timbre characteristics such as brightness.
Scattering of a longitudinal Bessel beam by a sphere embedded in an isotropic elastic solid
Authors: Leão-Neto J. P. , Lopes J. H. , Silva G. T.
Published: November 2017

The scattering of a longitudinal Bessel beam of arbitrary order by a sphere embedded in an isotropic solid matrix is theoretically analyzed. The spherical inclusion can be made of a viscoelastic, elastic, or fluid-filled isotropic material. In the analysis, the absorbing, scattering, and extinction efficiency factors are obtained, e.g., the corresponding power per characteristic beam intensity per sphere's cross-section area. Furthermore, the extended optical theorem, which expresses the extinction efficiency in terms of an integral of the longitudinal scattering function is derived. Several features of zeroth- and first-order Bessel beams scattering in solids are illustrated considering a polymer adhesive (cured) sphere embedded in a stainless steel matrix. For instance, omnidirectional scattering can be achieved by choosing specific values of the half-cone angle of the Bessel beam, which is the beam's geometrical parameter. Additionally, it is demonstrated that mode suppression leads to lower absorption inside the inclusion when compared to plane wave scattering results.
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Analyses To Determine the Optimal Fixed Dosing Regimen of Iclaprim for Treatment of Patients with Serious Infections Caused by Gram-Positive Pathogens
Authors: Lodise Thomas P. , Bosso John , Kelly Colleen , Williams Paul J. , Lane James R. , Huang David B.
Published: November 2017

Iclaprim is a bacterial dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor that is currently being evaluated in two phase 3 trials for the treatment of patients with acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI). Prior animal infection model studies suggest that the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) drivers for efficacy are area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h at steady state (AUC
0–24ss
), AUC/MIC, and time above the MIC during the dosing interval (
T
> MIC), while QTc prolongation was associated with the maximal concentration at steady state (
C
maxss
) in a thorough QTc phase 1 study. Using PK data collected from 470 patients from the previously conducted phase 3 complicated skin and skin structure infection (cSSSI) trials, population PK modeling and Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) were used to identify a fixed iclaprim dosage regimen for the ongoing phase 3 ABSSSI studies that maximizes AUC
0–24ss
, AUC/MIC, and
T
> MIC while minimizing the probability of a
C
maxss
of ≥800 ng/ml relative to the values for the previously employed cSSSI regimen of 0.8 mg/kg of body weight infused intravenously over 0.5 h every 12 h. The MCS analyses indicated that administration of 80 mg as a 2-h infusion every 12 h provides 28%, 28%, and 32% increases in AUC
0–24ss
, AUC/MIC, and
T
> MIC, respectively, compared to values for the 0.8-mg/kg cSSSI regimen, while decreasing the probability of a
C
maxss
of ≥800 ng/ml, by 9%. Based on PK/PD analyses, 80 mg iclaprim administered over 2 h every 12 h was selected as the dosing scheme for subsequent phase 3 clinical trials.
A Novel Mechanism of Inactivating Antibacterial Nitro Compounds in the Human Pathogen Staphylococcus aureus by Overexpression of a NADH-Dependent Flavin Nitroreductase
Authors: El-Hossary Ebaa M. , Förstner Konrad U. , François Patrice , Baud Damien , Streker Karin , Schrenzel Jacques , Ohlsen Knut , Holzgrabe Ulrike
Published: November 2017

Recently, the nitro-substituted bisquaternary bisnaphthalimides were reported to have substantial anti-infective activity against Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA). Here, we selected resistant
S. aureus
clones by cultivation in increasing concentrations of the most active compound, MT02. Interestingly, MT02-resistant variants induced a diffusible red color of the broth. Chromatographic and spectroscopic investigations revealed a stepwise reduction of the bisquaternary bisnaphthalimides' nitro groups to amino groups. The corresponding derivatives were completely inactive against staphylococci. RNA sequencing experiments revealed a strong overexpression of a novel oxidoreductase in MT02-resistant strains. Deletion mutants of this enzyme did not produce the red color and were not able to develop resistance against bisquaternary bisnaphthalimides. Biochemical reactions confirmed an NADH-dependent deactivation of the nitro-substituted compounds. Thus, this is the first report of a nitroreductase-based antibiotic resistance mechanism in the human pathogen
S. aureus
.
Levofloxacin Population Pharmacokinetics in South African Children Treated for Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis
Authors: Denti Paolo , Garcia-Prats Anthony J. , Draper Heather R. , Wiesner Lubbe , Winckler Jana , Thee Stephanie , Dooley Kelly E. , Savic Rada M. , McIlleron Helen M. , Schaaf H. Simon , Hesseling Anneke C.
Published: November 2017

Levofloxacin is increasingly used in the treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). There are limited pediatric pharmacokinetic data to inform dose selection for children. Children routinely receiving levofloxacin (250-mg adult tablets) for MDR-TB prophylaxis or disease in Cape Town, South Africa, underwent pharmacokinetic sampling following receipt of a dose of 15 or 20 mg/kg of body weight given as a whole or crushed tablet(s) orally or via a nasogastric tube. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling. Model-based simulations were performed to estimate the doses across weight bands that would achieve adult exposures with 750-mg once-daily dosing. One hundred nine children were included. The median age was 2.1 years (range, 0.3 to 8.7 years), and the median weight was 12 kg (range, 6 to 22 kg). Levofloxacin followed 2-compartment kinetics with first-order elimination and absorption with a lag time. After inclusion of allometric scaling, the model characterized the age-driven maturation of clearance (CL), with the effect reaching 50% of that at maturity at about 2 months after birth and 100% of that at maturity by 2 years of age. CL in a typical child (weight, 12 kg; age, 2 years) was 4.7 liters/h. HIV infection reduced CL by 16%. By use of the adult 250-mg formulation, levofloxacin exposures were substantially lower than those reported in adults receiving a similar dose on a milligram-per-kilogram basis. To achieve adult-equivalent exposures at a 750-mg daily dose, higher levofloxacin pediatric doses of from 18 mg/kg/day for younger children with weights of 3 to 4 kg (due to immature clearance) to 40 mg/kg/day for older children may be required. The doses of levofloxacin currently recommended for the treatment of MDR-TB in children result in exposures considerably lower than those in adults. The effects of different formulations and formulation manipulation require further investigation. We recommend age- and weight-banded doses of 250-mg tablets of the adult formulation most likely to achieve target concentrations for prospective evaluation.
What Is Resistance? Impact of Phenotypic versus Molecular Drug Resistance Testing on Therapy for Multi- and Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis
Authors: Heyckendorf Jan , Andres Sönke , Köser Claudio U. , Olaru Ioana D. , Schön Thomas , Sturegård Erik , Beckert Patrick , Schleusener Viola , Kohl Thomas A. , Hillemann Doris , Moradigaravand Danesh , Parkhill Julian , Peacock Sharon J. , Niemann Stefan , Lange Christoph , Merker Matthias
Published: November 2017

Rapid and accurate drug susceptibility testing (DST) is essential for the treatment of multi- and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (M/XDR-TB). We compared the utility of genotypic DST assays with phenotypic DST (pDST) using Bactec 960 MGIT or Löwenstein-Jensen to construct M/XDR-TB treatment regimens for a cohort of 25 consecutive M/XDR-TB patients and 15 possible anti-TB drugs. Genotypic DST results from Cepheid GeneXpert MTB/RIF (Xpert) and line probe assays (LPAs; Hain GenoType MTBDR
plus
2.0 and MTBDR
sl
2.0) and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) were translated into individual algorithm-derived treatment regimens for each patient. We further analyzed if discrepancies between the various methods were due to flaws in the genotypic or phenotypic test using MIC results. Compared with pDST, the average agreement in the number of drugs prescribed in genotypic regimens ranged from just 49% (95% confidence interval [CI], 39 to 59%) for Xpert and 63% (95% CI, 56 to 70%) for LPAs to 93% (95% CI, 88 to 98%) for WGS. Only the WGS regimens did not contain any drugs to which pDST showed resistance. Importantly, MIC testing revealed that pDST likely underestimated the true rate of resistance for key drugs (rifampin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, and kanamycin) because critical concentrations (CCs) were too high. WGS can be used to rule in resistance even in M/XDR strains with complex resistance patterns, but pDST for some drugs is still needed to confirm susceptibility and construct the final regimens. Some CCs for pDST need to be reexamined to avoid systematic false-susceptible results in low-level resistant isolates.
Role of Calprotectin in Withholding Zinc and Copper from Candida albicans
Authors: Besold Angelique N. , Gilston Benjamin A. , Radin Jana N. , Ramsoomair Christian , Culbertson Edward M. , Li Cissy X. , Cormack Brendan P. , Chazin Walter J. , Kehl-Fie Thomas E. , Culotta Valeria C.
Published: November 2017

The opportunistic fungal pathogenCandida albicansacquires essential metals from the host, yet the host can sequester these micronutrients through a process known as nutritional immunity. How the host withholds metals fromC. albicanshas been poorly understood; here we examine the role of calprotectin (CP), a transition metal binding protein. When CP depletes bioavailable Zn from the extracellular environment,C. albicansstrongly upregulatesZRT1andPRA1for Zn import and maintains constant intracellular Zn through numerous cell divisions. We show for the first time that CP can also sequester Cu by binding Cu(II) with subpicomolar affinity. CP blocks fungal acquisition of Cu from serum and induces a Cu starvation stress response involvingSOD1andSOD3superoxide dismutases. These transcriptional changes are mirrored whenC. albicansinvades kidneys in a mouse model of disseminated candidiasis, although the responses to Cu and Zn limitations are temporally distinct. The Cu response progresses throughout 72 h, while the Zn response is short-lived. Notably, these stress responses were attenuated in CP null mice, but only at initial stages of infection. Thus, Zn and Cu pools are dynamic at the host-pathogen interface and CP acts early in infection to restrict metal nutrients fromC. albicans.
Orlistat-induced oxalate nephropathy: an under-recognised cause of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Solomon Laurence Richard , Nixon Andrew Christopher , Ogden Leanne , Nair Beena
Published: November 2017

Two patients developed kidney failure due to oxalate deposition in the kidney while taking orlistat. Cessation of orlistat was followed by partial recovery of kidney function. The mechanism by which orlistat causes hyperoxaluria and the management of orlistat-induced oxalate nephropathy is reviewed. We suggest that all patients taking orlistat are at risk of this condition, which may develop insidiously and is easily overlooked. Monitoring of kidney function of patients taking orlistat is warranted.
Sampling technique and detection rates of oropharyngeal and anorectal gonorrhoea using nucleic acid amplification tests in men who have sex with men
Authors: Yang Tim Z T , Chen Marcus Y , Read Tim R H , Needleman Robert , Bradshaw Catriona S , Fortune Ria , Fairley Christopher K , Chow Eric P F
Published: November 2017

Objectives

The objective of this study was to examine the associations between clinicians’ self-reported sampling technique and the detection rate of gonorrhoea at the oropharynx and anorectum using a highly sensitive nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT).

Methods

We analysed oropharyngeal and anorectal gonorrhoea swab results among men who have sex with men attending the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC) between March 2015 and December 2016. Swabs were tested by NAAT using the Aptima Combo 2 transcription-mediated amplification assay due to its high sensitivity. Clinicians at MSHC were invited to complete a questionnaire on sampling techniques in November 2016. Univariable generalised estimating equations (GEE) logistic regressions were performed to determine the association between gonorrhoea detection rates and clinicians’ sampling technique. Patients’ epidemiological risk factors were included in the multivariable GEE logistic model.

Results

A total of 2605 oropharyngeal gonorrhoea and 2392 anorectal gonorrhoea swab results were analysed. There was no significant difference in the detection rates of gonorrhoea between the 23 clinicians at the oropharynx (range 3.6%–16.9%, median 8.2%, P=0.302) or and anorectum (range 2.4%–17.3%, median 10.5%, P=0.177). Variations in clinicians’ self-reported sampling technique were not associated with oropharyngeal or anorectal gonorrhoea detection rates after adjusting for patients’ epidemiological risk factors.

Conclusions

This study shows that differences in clinicians’ self-reported sampling technique did not result in measurable differences in the detection rate for oropharyngeal or anorectal gonorrhoea when using NAAT.
International Barcode of Life: Focus on big biodiversity in South Africa
Authors: Adamowicz Sarah J. , Hollingsworth Peter M. , Ratnasingham Sujeevan , van der Bank Michelle
Published: November 2017

Participants in the 7th International Barcode of Life Conference (Kruger National Park, South Africa, 20–24 November 2017) share the latest findings in DNA barcoding research and its increasingly diversified applications. Here, we review prevailing trends synthesized from among 429 invited and contributed abstracts, which are collated in this open-access special issue of Genome. Hosted for the first time on the African continent, the 7th Conference places special emphasis on the evolutionary origins, biogeography, and conservation of African flora and fauna. Within Africa and elsewhere, DNA barcoding and related techniques are being increasingly used for wildlife forensics and for the validation of commercial products, such as medicinal plants and seafood species. A striking trend of the conference is the dramatic rise of studies on environmental DNA (eDNA) and on diverse uses of high-throughput sequencing techniques. Emerging techniques in these areas are opening new avenues for environmental biomonitoring, managing species-at-risk and invasive species, and revealing species interaction networks in unprecedented detail. Contributors call for the development of validated community standards for high-throughput sequence data generation and analysis, to enable the full potential of these methods to be realized for understanding and managing biodiversity on a global scale.
JOINT ESTIMATION OF THE TRANSMISSIBILITY AND SEVERITY OF EBOLA VIRUS DISEASE IN REAL TIME
Authors: ASAI YUSUKE , NISHIURA HIROSHI
Published: November 2017

The effective reproduction number [Formula: see text], the average number of secondary cases that are generated by a single primary case at calendar time [Formula: see text], plays a critical role in interpreting the temporal transmission dynamics of an infectious disease epidemic, while the case fatality risk (CFR) is an indispensable measure of the severity of disease. In many instances, [Formula: see text] is estimated using the reported number of cases (i.e., the incidence data), but such report often does not arrive on time, and moreover, the rate of diagnosis could change as a function of time, especially if we handle diseases that involve substantial number of asymptomatic and mild infections and large outbreaks that go beyond the local capacity of reporting. In addition, CFR is well known to be prone to ascertainment bias, often erroneously overestimated. In this paper, we propose a joint estimation method of [Formula: see text] and CFR of Ebola virus disease (EVD), analyzing the early epidemic data of EVD from March to October 2014 and addressing the ascertainment bias in real time. To assess the reliability of the proposed method, coverage probabilities were computed. When ascertainment effort plays a role in interpreting the epidemiological dynamics, it is useful to analyze not only reported (confirmed or suspected) cases, but also the temporal distribution of deceased individuals to avoid any strong impact of time dependent changes in diagnosis and reporting.
Measuring Male-to-Male Differences in Fertility or Effects of Semen Treatments
Authors: Amann Rupert P. , Saacke Richard G. , Barbato Guy F. , Waberski Dagmar
Published: November 2017

Fertility is a convenient but meaningless term unless the outcome measure is stipulated and accounts for dependence of male fertility on the female population. We describe outcome measures and detail the impacts of the physiological status of each female and her external environment, as well as management imposed by humans. We explain the dominant role of the female reproductive tract as a series of hurdles for sperm seeking an ovum. Each spermatozoon in an ejaculate is unique, although usually most are morphologically similar. Semen seemingly contains three subpopulations of sperm, based on fate within a female and role in hampering the success of the ultimate winning spermatozoon; we define these subpopulations. The numerical size of each subpopulation placed into a female determines the shape of the dose-response curve leading to possible live young. Heterospermic artificial insemination provides far greater sensitivity to detect differences, partly because the female environment is identical for each comparison.
Gain-of-Function Mutations inSTAT1: A Recently Defined Cause for Chronic Mucocutaneous Candidiasis Disease Mimicking Combined Immunodeficiencies
Authors: Eren Akarcan Sanem , Ulusoy Severcan Ezgi , Edeer Karaca Neslihan , Isik Esra , Aksu Guzide , Migaud Mélanie , Evin Gurkan Ferda , Azarsiz Elif , Puel Anne , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Kutukculer Necil
Published: November 2017

Chronic Mucocutaneous Candidiasis (CMC) is the chronic, recurrent, noninvasive Candida infections of the skin, mucous membranes, and nails. A 26-month-old girl was admitted with the complaints of recurrent oral Candidiasis, diarrhea, and respiratory infections.Candida albicansgrew in oral mucosa swab. CMV and EBV DNA titers were elevated. She had hypergammaglobulinemia; IgE level, percentages of lymphocyte subgroups, and in vitro T-cell proliferation responses were normal. She had parenchymal nodules within the lungs and a calcific nodule in the liver. Chronic-recurrent infections with different pathogens leading to significant morbidity suggested combined immunodeficiency, CMC, or Mendelian susceptibility to mycobacterial diseases. Genetic analysis revealed a predefined heterozygous gain-of-function mutation (GOF) (c.1154 C>T, p.Thr385Met) in the gene coding STAT1 molecule. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) was planned because of severe recurring infections. Patients withSTAT1GOF mutations may exhibit diverse phenotypes including infectious and noninfectious findings. HSCT should be considered as an early treatment option before permanent organ damage leading to morbidity and mortality develops. This case is presented to prompt clinicians to considerSTAT1GOF mutations in the differential diagnosis of patients with chronic Candidiasis and recurrent infections with multiple organisms, since these mutations are responsible for nearly half of CMC cases reported.
Design Optimization of Composite Laminated Tube Based on Improved Niching Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Ma Sen , Zhao Qilin , Pan Darong
Published: November 2017

A minimum weight design is developed for a composite laminated tube considering the number of plies as one of the design variables. The objective function is found to be complex, and more than one optimal design point may exist with different numbers of plies. Existing methods based on evolutionary algorithms tend to become trapped around a local optimum and can find no more than one optimal result per calculation. Aiming at the characteristics of the objective function, an improved evolutionary algorithm (INDE for short) is established based on niching technology. The formula for calculating the distance between individuals in the niching technology is improved to satisfy the minimum weight design for the composite laminated tube. As a result, the improved niching evolutionary algorithm offers better global search ability and can find more than one optimal result per calculation for different numbers of plies.
Galactomannan in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid for Diagnosis of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis with Nonneutropenic Patients
Authors: Zhuang Qidong , Ma Hongying , Zhang Yun , Chen Lei , Wang Li , Zheng Lin , Deng Zaichun , Chen Zhongbo
Published: November 2017

Background. We evaluated the utility of galactomannan (GM) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) for the diagnosis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in nonneutropenic patients. Methods. A total of 183 patients were included in the final analysis. Bronchoscopies and the detection of GM in BALF were all performed on them. Results. Ten cases of IPA were diagnosed. ROC data demonstrated that, for diagnosing IPA, an optimal cutoff value for GM in BALF of 0.76 yielded a sensitivity of 100.0% and a specificity of 76.2%. Symptoms and radiological findings had no significant difference between proven or probable IPA group and non-IPA group. In our case-control analysis, although nine patients with false-positive results received treatment with Piperacillin/tazobactam, there was no significant difference between case and control group. Conclusions. BALF GM detection is a valuable adjunctive diagnostic tool. Our retrospective study suggests that the optimal value of GM detection in BALF is 0.76 in nonneutropenic patients.
Correction of Transducers Mass Effects from the Measured FRFs in Hammer Impact Testing
Authors: Ren Jun , Wang Jun , Bi Shusheng
Published: November 2017

In modal testing, the measured frequency response functions (FRFs) are often affected by transducer mass effects. Especially when multiple sensors are employed, transducers mass effects are more significant. This paper deals with removing sensors mass effects from the measured FRFs in hammer impact testing. The proposed method offers some advantages over the available techniques in that extra FRFs measurements with different configurations are not required during the correction process. Firstly, correction method for single accelerometer case is discussed. Further, general correction formulation for multiple accelerometers case is derived. Then, validations of the proposed method are demonstrated using simulated and experimental data. It shows good effectiveness in experimental validation for single accelerometer case. Numerical simulation also demonstrates a good performance for multiple accelerometers case. However, further simulations with noisy-polluted data show that the accuracy of correction results will be affected to some extent by the noise. It is suggested that the measured FRFs be preprocessed using the curve-fitting procedure or noise reduction processing before applying the proposed method.
Relative Efficacy of Quercetin Compared with Benzydamine Hydrochloride in Minor Aphthae: A Prospective, Parallel, Double Blind, Active Control, Preliminary Study
Authors: Pandya Maitreyi , Kalappanavar Anupama N. , Annigeri Rajeshwari G. , Rao Dhanya S.
Published: November 2017

Background and Objectives. Recurrent aphthous stomatitis is an inflammatory condition present since ancient era wherein numerous treatment modalities have been tried. But complete eradication of the disease has not been possible and hence newer agents are being introduced. One such agent is a flavonoid named quercetin with proven antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and ulcer healing properties. Methods. 40 patients with minor aphthous ulcers were divided equally into two groups: A and B. Group A patients were advised to apply quercetin gel and Group B patients were advised to take benzydamine hydrochloride mouth wash. Clinical evaluation including assessment of ulcer size and pain score and questionnaire about the acceptability of both the drugs in terms of taste and ease of application was carried out. Each criterion was compared and statistically analyzed. Results. There was statistically significant reduction in the mean score of pain sensation and ulcer area in both the groups. Quercetin showed statistically highly significant ulcer size reduction as compared to benzydamine hydrochloride. Conclusion. From the present study, it is evident that quercetin is safe, well tolerated, and effective therapy which promotes complete ulcer healing in a short duration of time.
Shape Preserving Interpolation Using Rational Cubic Ball Function and Its Application in Image Interpolation
Authors: Abdul Karim Samsul Ariffin , Saaban Azizan
Published: November 2017

New rational cubic Ball interpolation with one parameter is proposed for shape preserving interpolation such as positivity, monotonicity, and convexity preservations and constrained data lie on the same side of the given straight line. To produce shape preserving interpolant, the data dependent sufficient condition is derived on the parameter. The rational bicubic Ball function is constructed by using tensor product approach and it will be used for application in image upscaling. Numerical and graphical results are presented by using Mathematica and MATLAB including comparison with some existing scheme.
Reversible Data Hiding in FTIR Microspectroscopy Images with Tamper Indication and Payload Error Correction
Authors: Fylakis Angelos , Keskinarkaus Anja , Partala Juha , Saarakkala Simo , Seppänen Tapio
Published: November 2017

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy images contain information from the whole infrared spectrum used for microspectroscopic analyses. In combination with the FTIR image, visible light images are used to depict the area from which the FTIR spectral image was sampled. These two images are traditionally acquired as separate files. This paper proposes a histogram shifting-based data hiding technique to embed visible light images in FTIR spectral images producing single entities. The primary objective is to improve data management efficiency. Secondary objectives are confidentiality, availability, and reliability. Since the integrity of biomedical data is vital, the proposed method applies reversible data hiding. After extraction of the embedded data, the FTIR image is reversed to its original state. Furthermore, the proposed method applies authentication tags generated with keyed Hash-Based Message Authentication Codes (HMAC) to detect tampered or corrupted areas of FTIR images. The experimental results show that the FTIR spectral images carrying the payload maintain good perceptual fidelity and the payload can be reliably recovered even after bit flipping or cropping attacks. It has been also shown that extraction successfully removes all modifications caused by the payload. Finally, authentication tags successfully indicated tampered FTIR image areas.
Functional Recovery of Cranial Nerves in Patients with Traumatic Orbital Apex Syndrome
Authors: Li Zhenxing , Zhang Danfeng , Chen Jigang , Wang Junyu , Lv Liquan , Hou Lijun
Published: November 2017

Objective. Traumatic orbital apex syndrome (TOAS) is a rare disease characterized by the damage of cranial nerves (CNs) II, III, IV, and VI. The aim of our study was to analyze the functional recovery of CNs in TOAS and discuss the management of these patients.Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 28 patients with TOAS treated in the Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital from February 2006 to February 2016. Functional recovery of CNs was evaluated based on extraocular muscle movement and visual perception. Follow-up duration was at least 6 months.Results. There were 26 males and 2 females with a mean age of 35.3 years. The most common cause of TOAS was traffic accident. CN IV suffered the lightest injury among CNs III, IV, and VI. CN II achieved obvious improvement at 3-month follow-up, while other CNs enjoyed evident improvement at 6-month follow-up. There was no significant difference between conservative treatment and surgical decompression.Conclusion. CNs passing through orbital apex region might recover to different degrees several months after proper management. Clinical decision should be individualized and surgical decompression could be considered with evidence of fracture, hematoma, or deformation.
Abdominopelvic Tuberculosis Secondary to a Nontuberculous Mycobacterium in an Immunocompetent Patient
Authors: Ng Beng Kwang , Yakob Kembang Aziah , Ng Wendy Yin Ling , Lim Pei Shan , Abd Rahman Rahana , Abdul Karim Abdul Kadir , Zainuddin Ani Amelia , Mahdy Zaleha Abdullah
Published: November 2017

Tuberculosis (TB) remained as one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide despite an overall decline in its incidence rate globally. Extrapulmonary TB is uncommon and only accounts for 10–20% of overall TB disease burden. Abdominopelvic TB is the sixth most common location of extrapulmonary TB. The symptoms and signs are often insidious and nonspecific. Diagnosing abdominopelvic TB can be very challenging at times and poses great difficulties to the clinician. Infection with nontuberculous Mycobacterium (NTM) is even rarer especially in an immunocompetent patient. We report a case of NTM in abdominopelvic TB. A 37-year-old foreign worker, para 3, presented with a one-week history of suprapubic pain associated with fever. An assessment showed presence of a right adnexal mass. She was treated as tuboovarian abscess with intravenous antibiotics. Unfortunately, she did not respond. She underwent exploratory laparotomy. Intraoperatively, features of the mass were suggestive of a right mature cystic teratoma with presence of slough and cheesy materials all over the abdominal cavity as well as presence of ascites. Diagnosis of NTM was confirmed with PCR testing using the peritoneal fluid. This case was a diagnostic dilemma due to the nonspecific clinical presentation. Management of such rare infection was revisited.
The RARS–MAD1L1 Fusion Gene Induces Cancer Stem Cell–like Properties and Therapeutic Resistance in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Zhong Qian , Liu Zhi-Hua , Lin Zhi-Rui , Hu Ze-Dong , Yuan Li , Liu Yan-min , Zhou Ai-Jun , Xu Li-Hua , Hu Li-Juan , Wang Zi-Feng , Guan Xin-Yuan , Hao Jia-Jie , Lui Vivian W.Y. , Guo Ling , Mai Hai-Qiang , Chen Ming-Yuan , Han Fei , Xia Yun-Fei , Grandis Jennifer R. , Zhang Xing , Zeng Mu-Sheng
Published: November 2017

Purpose: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is the most common head and neck cancer in Southeast Asia. Because local recurrence and distant metastasis are still the main causes of NPC treatment failure, it is urgent to identify new tumor markers and therapeutic targets for advanced NPC.

Experimental Design: RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was applied to look for interchromosome translocation in NPC. PCR, FISH, and immunoprecipitation were used to examine the fusion gene expression at RNA, DNA, and protein levels in NPC biopsies. MTT assay, colony formation assay, sphere formation assay, co-immunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay, and in vivo chemoresistance assay were applied to explore the function of RARS-MAD1L1 in NPC.

Results: We demonstrated that RARS-MAD1L1 was present in 10.03% (35/349) primary NPC biopsies and 10.7% (9/84) in head and neck cancer (HNC) samples. RARS-MAD1L1 overexpression increased cell proliferation, colony formation, and tumorigenicity in vitro, and the silencing of endogenous RARS-MAD1L1 reduced cancer cell growth and colony formation in vitro. In addition, RARS-MAD1L1 increased the side population (SP) ratio and induced chemo- and radioresistance. Furthermore RARS-MAD1L1 interacted with AIMP2, which resulted in activation of FUBP1/c-Myc pathway. The silencing of FUBP1 or the administration of a c-Myc inhibitor abrogated the cancer stem cell (CSC)-like characteristics induced by RARS-MAD1L1. The expression of c-Myc and ABCG2 was higher in RARS-MAD1L1–positive HNC samples than in negative samples.

Conclusions: Our findings indicate that RARS-MAD1L1 might contribute to tumorigenesis, CSC-like properties, and therapeutic resistance, at least in part, through the FUBP1/c-Myc axis, implying that RARS-MAD1L1 might serve as an attractive target for therapeutic intervention for NPC. Clin Cancer Res; 24(3); 659–73. ©2017 AACR.
Altered Circular RNA Expression in Patients with Repeated Implantation Failure
Authors: Liu Lin , Li Lifei , Ma Xiaoling , Yue Feng , Wang Yiqing , Wang Liyan , Jin Panpan , Zhang Xuehong
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: CircRNAs play an important role in regulating gene expression and the specific role of circRNAs in the pathogenesis of repeated implantation failure remains unclear. The aim of this study is to assess the differentially expressed circRNAs in patients with repeated implantation failure. Methods: We screened circRNA expression profiles in endometrial biopsies taken from six women with repeated implantation failure and control group using circRNA microarray. Bioinformatic analyses were applied to study these differentially expressed circRNAs. Furthermore, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to confirm these results. Results: The data from circRNA microarrays clearly revealed that 856 unique circRNAs were significantly altered (p<0.05). The up-regulated expression of hsa_circRNA_070616, hsa_circRNA_103716, hsa_circRNA_104001, hsa_circRNA_104854 and the down-regulated expression of hsa_circRNA_004183, hsa_circRNA_044353, hsa_circRNA_404686 were further validated by qRT-PCR. Conclusion: this study demonstrates that a number of circRNAs were differentially expressed in patients with repeated implantation failure compared with normal controls and may offer novel molecular candidates for diagnosis and clinical treatment of embryo implantation failures.
Cardiovascular Outcomes and Risks After Initiation of a Sodium Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor
Authors: Udell Jacob A. , Yuan Zhong , Rush Toni , Sicignano Nicholas M. , Galitz Michael , Rosenthal Norman
Published: November 2017

Background:

Clinical trials have shown cardiovascular benefits and potential risks from sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i). Trials may have limited ability to address individual end points or safety concerns.

Methods:

We performed a population-based cohort study among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with established cardiovascular disease newly initiated on antihyperglycemic agents within the US Department of Defense Military Health System between April 1, 2013, and December 31, 2016. Incidence rates, hazard ratios (HRs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for time to first composite end point of all-cause mortality and hospitalization for heart failure event, major adverse cardiovascular events (defined as all-cause mortality, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and nonfatal stroke), and individual end points were evaluated using conditional Cox models comparing new SGLT2i users with other antihyperglycemic agents. The exploratory safety end point was below-knee lower extremity amputation. Intent-to-treat and on-treatment analyses were performed.

Results:

After propensity matching, 25 258 patients were followed for a median of 1.6 years. Compared with non-SGLT2i, initiation of SGLT2i was associated with a lower rate of all-cause mortality and hospitalization for heart failure (1.73 versus 3.01 events per 100 person-years; HR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.50–0.65) and major adverse cardiovascular events (2.31 versus 3.45 events per 100 person-years; HR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.60–0.75). SGLT2i initiation was also associated with an ≈2-fold higher risk of below-knee lower extremity amputation (0.17 versus 0.09 events per 100 person-years; HR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.12–3.51). Because of the disproportionate canagliflozin exposure in the database, the majority of amputations were observed on canagliflozin. Results were consistent in the on-treatment analysis.

Conclusions:

In this high-risk cohort, initiation of SGLT2i was associated with lower risk of all-cause mortality, hospitalization for heart failure, and major adverse cardiovascular events and higher risk of below-knee lower extremity amputation. Findings underscore the potential benefit and risks to be aware of when initiating SGLT2i. It remains unclear whether the below-knee lower extremity amputation risk extends across the class of medication, because the study was not powered to make comparisons among individual treatments.