bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Lysine Demethylase KDM5B Regulates Islet Function and Glucose Homeostasis
Authors: Backe Marie Balslev , Jin Chunyu , Andreone Luz , Sankar Aditya , Agger Karl , Helin Kristian , Madsen Andreas Nygaard , Poulsen Steen Seier , Bysani Madhusudhan , Bacos Karl , Ling Charlotte , Perone Marcelo Javier , Holst Birgitte , Mandrup-Poulsen Thomas
Published: July 2019

Aims. Posttranslational modifications of histones and transcription factors regulate gene expression and are implicated in beta-cell failure and diabetes. We have recently shown that preserving H3K27 and H3K4 methylation using the lysine demethylase inhibitor GSK-J4 reduces cytokine-induced destruction of beta-cells and improves beta-cell function. Here, we investigate the therapeutic potential of GSK-J4 to prevent diabetes development and examine the importance of H3K4 methylation for islet function.Materials and Methods. We used two mouse models of diabetes to investigate the therapeutic potential of GSK-J4. To clarify the importance of H3K4 methylation, we characterized a mouse strain with knockout (KO) of the H3K4 demethylase KDM5B.Results. GSK-J4 administration failed to prevent the development of experimental diabetes induced by multiple low-dose streptozotocin or adoptive transfer of splenocytes from acutely diabetic NOD to NODscid mice. KDM5B-KO mice were growth retarded with altered body composition, had low IGF-1 levels, and exhibited reduced insulin secretion. Interestingly, despite secreting less insulin, KDM5B-KO mice were able to maintain normoglycemia following oral glucose tolerance test, likely via improved insulin sensitivity, as suggested by insulin tolerance testing and phosphorylation of proteins belonging to the insulin signaling pathway. When challenged with high-fat diet, KDM5B-deficient mice displayed similar weight gain and insulin sensitivity as wild-type mice.Conclusion. Our results show a novel role of KDM5B in metabolism, as KDM5B-KO mice display growth retardation and improved insulin sensitivity.
Primary Pyomyositis: Contact Sports as the Rare Risk Factors
Authors: Amoozgar Behzad , Kaushal Varun , Garsondiya Bhaveshkumar
Published: July 2019

Primary pyomyositis is an infectious disorder that mostly involves children and adults. Direct injury to the muscle or any traumatic process that can cause bacteremia has been described as the common risk factor. Contact sports without direct contusion or injury to the muscle is an uncommon culprit for the manifestation of this disease. In our case, a young male athlete presented to the emergency room with vague signs and symptoms including right leg muscle pain and fever. He denied any direct injury or contusion of the muscle. CT scan was done and showed edematous gluteus minimus muscle. MRI as one of the best tools for investigating soft tissues was done and exhibited myositis. Blood culture became positive for the methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus. Appropriate antibiotics were started, and the patient condition was improved. Considering prominent risk factors, early diagnosis and treatment of pyomyositis are major key factors for the management of these infectious conditions as it may cause loss of the limb or even result in mortality.
Assessing Knowledge and Attitude of Dental Patients regarding the Use of Dental Implants: A Survey-Based Research
Authors: Alajlan Abdulrahman , Alhoumaidan Aryaf , Ettesh Abeer , Doumani Mazen
Published: July 2019

Aim. The purpose of this study was to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and source of information regarding the use of dental implants as treatment option compared to other conventional treatment modalities. Materials and Methods. A descriptive cross sectional study among adult dental patients attended dental clinics of College of Dentistry, Qassim University. The level of knowledge, source of information, and attitude regarding the use of dental implants were evaluated through standardized self-explanatory questionnaires which were handed to the patient during their regular dental visits. 200 patients were selected randomly to be included in this survey. Results. Among the 200 participants included in this study, 91.5% of the respondents heard about implants and their source of information were friends (45.5%), 38% of the respondents had no idea about the oral hygiene for the care of the implants compared with natural teeth, 28.5% of the respondents expected them to last between 10 and 20 years, and 48.5% of the respondents believed that dental implants have no effects on the systemic health and there was nonsignificant difference between males and females. Conclusion. The survey concluded that an acceptable level of awareness regarding using dental implants as a treatment option for replacing missing teeth, with friends being the main source of information.
Potential Anticancer Properties and Mechanisms of Action of Formononetin
Authors: Jiang Dongjun , Rasul Azhar , Batool Rabia , Sarfraz Iqra , Hussain Ghulam , Mateen Tahir Muhammad , Qin Tian , Selamoglu Zeliha , Ali Muhammad , Li Jiang , Li Xiaomeng
Published: July 2019

Nature, a vast reservoir of pharmacologically active molecules, has been most promising source of drug leads for the cure of various pathological conditions. Formononetin is one of the bioactive isoflavones isolated from different plants mainly from Trifolium pratense, Glycine max, Sophora flavescens, Pycnanthus angolensis, and Astragalus membranaceus. Formononetin has been well-documented for its anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. Recently anticancer activity of formononetin is widely studied. This review aims to highlight the pharmacological potential of formononetin, thus providing an insight of its status in cancer therapeutics. Formononetin fights progression of cancer via inducing apoptosis, arresting cell cycle, and halting metastasis via targeting various pathways which are generally modulated in several cancers. Although reported data acclaims various biological properties of formononetin, further experimentation on mechanism of its action, medicinal chemistry studies, and preclinical investigations are surely needed to figure out full array of its pharmacological and biological potential.
The Association between PON1 (Q192R and L55M) Gene Polymorphisms and Risk of Cancer: A Meta-Analysis Based on 43 Studies
Authors: Pan Xiaolan , Huang Lei , Li Meiqin , Mo Dan , Liang Yihua , Liu Zhiming , Huang Zhaodong , Huang Lingsha , Liu Jinfeng , Zhu Bo
Published: July 2019

Q192R and L55M polymorphism were considered to be associated with the development of multiple cancers. Nevertheless, the results of these researches were inconclusive and controversial. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis of all eligible case-control studies to assess the association between PON1 (Q192R and L55M) gene polymorphisms and risk of cancer. With the STATA 14.0 software, we evaluated the strength of the association by using the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A total of 43 case-control publications 19887 cases and 23842 controls were employed in our study. In all genetic models, a significant association between PON1-L55M polymorphisms and overall cancer risk was observed. Moreover, in the stratified analyses by cancer type, polymorphism of PON1-L55M played a risk factor in the occurrence of breast cancer, hematologic cancer, and prostate cancer. Similarly, an increased risk was observed in the Caucasian and Asian population as well as hospital-based group and population-based group. For PON1-Q192R polymorphisms, in the stratified analyses by cancer type, PON1-Q192R allele was associated with reduced cancer risks in breast cancer. Furthermore, for racial stratification, there was a reduced risk of cancer in recession model in Caucasian population. Similarly, in the stratification analysis of control source, the overall risk of cancer was reduced in the heterozygote comparison and dominant model in the population-based group. In conclusion, PON1-Q192R allele decreased the cancer risk especially breast cancer; there was an association between PON1-L55M allele and increased overall cancer risk. However, we need a larger sample size, well-designed in future and at protein levels to confirm these findings.
Wound Photobiomodulation Treatment Outcomes in Animal Models
Authors: Lopez Alondra , Brundage Cord
Published: July 2019

The possibilities that photobiomodulation has brought on to the medical field are ever expanding and the scope it has reached is infinite. Determining how this relatively new treatment technique can be incorporated into the veterinary medical field is of interest to many medical professionals. In this review, we examine the treatment outcomes of low-level-laser therapy (LLLT) in different animal models to pinpoint any similarities between the studies. A search was conducted to identify LLLT studies using different animal models with an open or closed wound. The studies were compared to identify the laser parameters that resulted in positive treatment outcomes. The overall result of the studies examined indicated that daily laser exposure at a wavelength of a 600 or 800 nm range was the most beneficial across the rodent studies regardless of health status or wound type. More studies on rabbit, canine, and equine models are needed to explain the inconsistent results reviewed and find the correct treatment parameters for these species. Further research involving LLLT studies that focus on different factors including health status, treatment interval, wavelength, and energy density is needed to help validate our knowledge about the efficacy of using photobiomodulation in the veterinary medical field.
Predictors of Endothelial Cell Loss after Phacoemulsification for the Treatment of Primary Angle Closure
Authors: Cutolo Carlo Alberto , Bonzano Chiara , Catti Carlo , Bagnis Alessandro , Scotto Riccardo , Negri Letizia , Olivari Sara , Cappelli Francesca , Traverso Carlo Enrico
Published: July 2019

Purpose. To investigate demographic and anatomical factors associated with a reduction in endothelial cell density (ECD) after phacoemulsification (PE) for the treatment of primary angle closure (PAC). Methods. In this prospective case series, ECD was evaluated by noncontact specular microscopy and biometric parameters by both noncontact optical biometry and anterior segment optical coherence tomography, preoperatively and at 12 months after surgery. Anterior segment biomicroscopy and gonioscopy were also performed. The change in ECD and its relation to clinical characteristics and biometric parameters were evaluated by linear regression analysis. Results. 44 patients with PAC were included in the study. The mean (SD) patient age was 71.6 (10.2) years; thirty-one (70.5%) of them were women. Coexistence of exfoliation syndrome (XS) was observed in 4 cases (9.1%). The mean (SD) ECD (cells/mm2) changed from 2275 (463) preoperatively to 1964 (613) postoperatively with a mean reduction of −310 (95% CI −445 to −176; p<0.001). In the multivariate regression model, after correction for age and lens status, XS was the only parameter associated with ECD percentage change (B = −36.00; p=0.001). Conclusion. PE in angle closure causes a significant ECD reduction. In our population of PAC patients, XS is significantly associated with ECD change. In this group of patients, a careful preoperative endothelial evaluation should be performed.
Surgical Management Outcome of Intestinal Obstruction and Its Associated Factors at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, 2018
Authors: Mariam Tesfamichael G. , Abate Addisu Taye , Getnet Mehammed Adem
Published: July 2019

Background. Intestinal obstruction (IO) is one of the most common acute abdominal disorders that often requires emergency surgical management in the hospital setting. However, the surgical management sometimes ends with unfavorable outcomes characterized by fatal and nonfatal postoperative complications. Aim. The aim of this study was to analyze the surgical management outcome of IO and its associated factors among surgically treated patients for intestinal obstruction at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (UGCSH), Ethiopia, 2018. Methods. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among patients who were surgically treated for IO during the last 3 years at the UGCSH. The patient participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. A structured research tool was used to collect all the necessary data from the patients’ medical records. The data were analyzed by using SPSS version 21. Frequencies with percentages were used to describe the surgical management outcome of IO. The binary logistic regression model was used to explore the determinant factors associated with the surgical management outcome of IO. Factors at P<0.05 were declared statically significant. Results. 227 patient participants were included and finally analyzed in this study. From these, 83.3% patients have favorable surgical management outcomes of IO, whereas the rest 16.7% patients have unfavorable outcomes. Of 38 patients with unfavorable outcome, the most common postoperative complication occurred was surgical site infection (36.8%), followed by pneumonia (23.6%) and septic shock (21.0%) among other complications. A total of 10 postoperative deaths were also documented as unfavorable surgical management outcomes of IO. Of the determinant factors analyzed in this study, only three factors, duration of illness before surgery, length of hospital stay after surgery, and comorbidity, were independently significantly associated with the surgical management outcome of IO. Conclusions. In this study, the majority of patients had favorable surgical management outcomes of IO, and the proportion of patients with unfavorable outcomes was however considerable. Thus, designing a strategy addressing the significantly associated determining factors could be helpful to further increase the likelihood of favorable surgical management outcomes of IO.
Integrated Analysis of Oncogenic Networks in Colorectal Cancer Identifies GUCA2A as a Molecular Marker
Authors: Zhang Hui , Du Yuanyuan , Wang Zhuo , Lou Rui , Wu Jianzhong , Feng Jifeng
Published: July 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common and deadly malignancies in the world. In China, the morbidity rate of CRC has increased during the period 2000 to 2011. Biomarker detection for early CRC diagnosis can effectively reduce the mortality of patients with CRC. To explore the underlying mechanisms of effective biomarkers and identify more of them, we performed weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) on a GSE68468 dataset generated from 378 CRC tissue samples. We screened the gene set (module), which was significantly associated with CRC histology, and analyzed the hub genes. The key genes were identified by obtaining six colorectal raw data (i.e., GSE25070, GSE44076, GSE44861, GSE21510, GSE9348, and GSE21815) from the GEO database (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo). The robust differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in all six datasets were calculated and obtained using the library “RobustRankAggreg” package in R 3.5.1. An integrated analysis of CRC based on the top 50 downregulated DEGs and hub genes in the red module from WGCNA was conducted, and the intersecting genes were screened. The Kaplan–Meier plot was further analyzed, and the genes associated with CRC prognosis based on patients from the TCGA database were determined. Finally, we validated the candidate gene in our clinical CRC specimens. We postulated that the candidate genes screened from the database and verified by our clinical pathological data may contribute to understanding the molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis and may serve as potential biomarkers for CRC diagnosis and treatment.
Effectiveness of Tephrosia vogelii and Tephrosia candida Extracts against Common Bean Aphid (Aphis fabae) in Malawi
Authors: Kayange Chicco D. M. , Njera Dalo , Nyirenda Stephen P. , Mwamlima Louis
Published: July 2019

Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) remain an important dietary protein source in Malawi. However, its production is highly hindered by insect pest and disease attack. The study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of Tephrosia vogelii and Tephrosia candida extracts against bean aphid (Aphis fabae). The evaluation involved two botanical extracts at three different concentrations (0.5%, 2%, and 5% w/v) against bean aphid. Plant extracts (leaves) were air-dried and milled. Powders were then soaked in a 2-litre plastic bucket of cold water. Results indicated that there was significant difference (P<0.05) among treatments. The effectiveness of the treatments was based on reduction in aphid population per plant, pod length, and bean yield. Pod length and bean yield were higher in T. vogelii and Karate as compared to untreated and T. candida. There was a high mortality rate of aphid on the plots treated with T. vogelii compared to plots treated with T. candida at the same concentration. Though these two plant extracts were not as effective as the synthetic insecticide in reducing aphid population, they were considerably and significantly found to be effective; hence, its use by poor-resource farmers is recommended in the protection of bean against aphid.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Global Clean Energy Development Level Based on Compatibility and Difference Degree
Authors: He Yongxiu , Zhang Yi , Pang Yuexia
Published: July 2019

To promote the energy structure adjustment and clean energy development, this paper evaluates the global clean energy development level. Firstly, the global clean energy development level evaluation index system is established based on index system construction principles; secondly, the comprehensive weight is determined based on additive integration model, which is used to combine subjective and objective weights. Moreover, the variance minimal optimization method is used to select the combination scheme of dimensionless method and objective weight method, which could avoid the influence from subjective selection of method and enhance the stability of weighting. Thirdly, grey relational degree method and logarithmic range method are applied to evaluate the global clean energy development level. Then using the compatibility degree maximization and difference degree minimization model considers the compatibility and difference degree of the various comprehensive evaluation methods results and chooses the result with the maximization compatibility degree and minimization difference degree as the final evaluation scheme, which makes the evaluation result more scientific, robust, and reasonable. Finally, this paper empirically analyzes the 66 countries in the world to verify the effectiveness of the method and evaluates the development level of the region according to the spatial distribution map of the development level.
Anthropomorphism Index of Mobility for Artificial Hands
Authors: Llop-Harillo Immaculada , Pérez-González Antonio , Gracia-Ibáñez Verónica
Published: July 2019

The increasing development of anthropomorphic artificial hands makes necessary quick metrics that analyze their anthropomorphism. In this study, a human grasp experiment on the most important grasp types was undertaken in order to obtain an Anthropomorphism Index of Mobility (AIM) for artificial hands. The AIM evaluates the topology of the whole hand, joints and degrees of freedom (DoFs), and the possibility to control these DoFs independently. It uses a set of weighting factors, obtained from analysis of human grasping, depending on the relevance of the different groups of DoFs of the hand. The computation of the index is straightforward, making it a useful tool for analyzing new artificial hands in early stages of the design process and for grading human-likeness of existing artificial hands. Thirteen artificial hands, both prosthetic and robotic, were evaluated and compared using the AIM, highlighting the reasons behind their differences. The AIM was also compared with other indexes in the literature with more cumbersome computation, ranking equally different artificial hands. As the index was primarily proposed for prosthetic hands, normally used as nondominant hands in unilateral amputees, the grasp types selected for the human grasp experiment were the most relevant for the human nondominant hand to reinforce bimanual grasping in activities of daily living. However, it was shown that the effect of using the grasping information from the dominant hand is small, indicating that the index is also valid for evaluating the artificial hand as dominant and so being valid for bilateral amputees or robotic hands.
Presenilin 1 Regulates [Ca2+]i and Mitochondria/ER Interaction in Cultured Rat Hippocampal Neurons
Authors: Korkotian Eduard , Meshcheriakova Anna , Segal Menahem
Published: July 2019

Mutations in the presenilin 1 (PS1) gene are a major trigger of familial Alzheimer’s disease (AD), yet the mechanisms affected by mutated PS1 causing cognitive decline are not yet elucidated. In the present study, we compared rat hippocampal neurons in culture, transfected with PS1 or with mutant (M146V) PS1 (mPS1) plasmids in several neuronal functions. Initially, we confirmed earlier observations that mPS1-expressing neurons are endowed with fewer mature “mushroom” spines and more filopodial immature protrusions. The correlation between calcium changes in the cytosol, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is mitigated in the mPS1 neurons, tested by the response to an abrupt increase in ambient [Ca2+]o; cytosolic [Ca2+]i is higher in the mPS1 neurons but mitochondrial [Ca2+] is lower than in control neurons. Strikingly, mPS1-transfected neurons express higher excitability and eventual lower survival rate when exposed to the oxidative stressor, paraquat. These results highlight an impaired calcium regulation in mPS1 neurons, resulting in a reduced ability to handle oxidative stress, which may lead to cell death and AD.
Ginsenoside Rg1 Ameliorates Palmitic Acid-Induced Hepatic Steatosis and Inflammation in HepG2 Cells via the AMPK/NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Xiao Qing , Zhang Shujun , Yang Cheng , Du Ruoyang , Zhao Jinqiu , Li Jiajun , Xu Yashu , Qin Yuanyuan , Gao Yue , Huang Wenxiang
Published: July 2019

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the common diseases in the world, and it can progress from simple lipid accumulation to sustained inflammation. The present study was designed to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of ginsenoside Rg1 (G-Rg1) treatment on NAFLD in vitro. HepG2 cells were treated with palmitic acid (PA) to induce steatosis and inflammation and then successively incubated with G-Rg1. Lipids accumulation was analyzed by Oil Red O staining and intracellular triglyceride (TG) quantification. Inflammatory conditions were examined by quantifying the levels of cell supernatant alanine transaminase/aspartate aminotransferase (ALT/AST) and secretory proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in the cell supernatants. Quantitative RT-PCR and western blotting were used to measure the expressions of genes and proteins associated with lipogenic synthesis and inflammation, including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathways. HepG2 cells were pretreated with an AMPK inhibitor; then, Oil Red O staining and TG quantification were performed to study the lipid deposition. Phospho-AMPK (Thr172) (p-AMPK) and phospho-acetyl-CoA carboxylase (Ser79) (p-ACCα) were quantified by immunoblotting. Immunofluorescence was performed to demonstrate the nuclear translocation of NF-κB P65. The present study showed that PA markedly increased the intracellular lipid droplets accumulation and TG levels, but decreased AMPK phosphorylation and the expressions of its downstream lipogenic genes. However, G-Rg1 alleviated hepatic steatosis and reduced the intracellular TG content; these changes were accompanied by the activation of the AMPK pathway. In addition, blocking AMPK by using the AMPK inhibitor markedly abolished the G-Rg1-mediated protection against PA-induced lipid deposition in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, G-Rg1 reduced the ALT/AST levels and proinflammatory cytokines release, which were all enhanced by PA. These effects were correlated with the inactivation of the NF-κB pathway and translocation of P65 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. Overall, these results suggest that G-Rg1 effectively ameliorates hepatic steatosis and inflammation, which might be associated with the AMPK/NF-κB pathway.
Efficient Implementation and Numerical Analysis of Finite Element Method for Fractional Allen‐Cahn Equation
Authors: Wang Guozhen , Chen Huanzhen
Published: July 2019

We embed the fractional Allen‐Cahn equation into a Galerkin variational framework and thus develop its corresponding finite element procedure and then prove rigorously its mathematical and physical properties for the finite element solution. Combining the merits of the conjugate gradient (CG) algorithm and the Toeplitz structure of the coefficient matrix, we design a fast CG for the linearized finite element scheme to reduce the computation cost and the storage to O(M log ⁡ M ) and O(M), respectively. Numerical experiments confirm that the proposed fast CG algorithm recognizes accurately the mass and energy dissipation, the phase separation through a very clear coarse graining process, and the influences of different indices r of fractional Laplacian and different coefficients K, η on the width of the interfaces.
Resonant Soliton and Soliton‐Cnoidal Wave Solutions for a (3+1)‐Dimensional Korteweg‐de Vries‐Like Equation
Authors: Ma Zheng-Yi , Fei Jin-Xi , Chen Jun-Chao , Zhu Quan-Yong
Published: July 2019

The residual symmetry of a (3+1)‐dimensional Korteweg‐de Vries (KdV)‐like equation is constructed using the truncated Painlevé expansion. Such residual symmetry can be localized and the (3+1)‐dimensional KdV‐like equation is extended into an enlarged system by introducing some new variables. By using Lie’s first theorem, the finite transformation is obtained for this localized residual symmetry. Further, the linear superposition of multiple residual symmetries is localized and the n‐th Bäcklund transformation in the form of the determinants is constructed for this equation. For illustration more detail, the first three multiple wave solutions‐the collisions of resonant solitons are depicted. Finally, with the aid of the link between the consistent tanh expansion (CTE) method and the truncated Painlevé expansion, the explicit soliton‐cnoidal wave interaction solution containing three kinds of Jacobian elliptic functions for this equation is derived.
Plant Enzymes Decrease Prostate Cancer Cell Numbers and Increase TNF-α In Vivo: A Possible Role in Immunostimulatory Activity
Authors: Gu Yeun-Hwa , Yamashita Takenori , Yamamoto Hajime , Matsuo Tatsuhiko , Washino Noriyuki , Song Jin-Ho , Kang Ki-Mun
Published: July 2019

Increased caloric intake and Westernized dietary choices may be contributing toward a recent rising trend of incidences of chronic lifestyle-related diseases. In this study, we evaluated the anticancer properties of Plant Enzyme Validux (PEV) using a mouse model. Five-week-old male C3H mice were randomly distributed into four experimental groups: Control, PEV only, 6Gy irradiation only, and PEV + 6Gy. PEV was orally administered daily at 500 mg/kg for 14 days prior to three rounds of 2Gy irradiation. We focused on the anticancer action and immunostimulatory effects of PEV with and without irradiation. Oncogene suppression was observed after PEV treatment as was an increase in TNF-α, suggesting an antitumor effect. PEV administration also appeared to reduce oxidative stress as evidenced by a decrease in lipid peroxidation. In addition, PEV confirmed radioprotective effect by radical blocking ability by radiation irradiation. Immunological responses to PEV administration were evidenced by an increase in number of total white blood cells and T lymphocytes. Immunotherapy is drawing more and more attention as a treatment for prostate cancer, suggesting that there will be a need for the identification of specific targets for prostate cancer and for more basic research on the genetic aspects of immunotherapy. Thus, PEV may be of use as a radioprotective supplement during radiotherapy for tumor treatment.
Application-Level Unsupervised Outlier-Based Intrusion Detection and Prevention
Authors: Iraqi Omar , El Bakkali Hanan
Published: July 2019

As cyber threats are permanently jeopardizing individuals privacy and organizations’ security, there have been several efforts to empower software applications with built-in immunity. In this paper, we present our approach to immune applications through application-level, unsupervised, outlier-based intrusion detection and prevention. Our framework allows tracking application domain objects all along the processing lifecycle. It also leverages the application business context and learns from production data, without creating any training burden on the application owner. Moreover, as our framework uses runtime application instrumentation, it incurs no additional cost on the application provider. We build a fine-grained and rich-feature application behavioral model that gets down to the method level and its invocation context. We define features to be independent from the variable structure of method invocation parameters and returned values, while preserving security-relevant information. We implemented our framework in a Java environment and evaluated it on a widely-used, enterprise-grade, and open-source ERP. We tested several unsupervised outlier detection algorithms and distance functions. Our framework achieved the best results in terms of effectiveness using the Local Outlier Factor algorithm and the Clark distance, while the average instrumentation overhead per intercepted call remains acceptable.
Chemical Investigation of a Biologically Active Schinus molle L. Leaf Extract
Authors: Garzoli Stefania , Masci Valentina Laghezza , Ovidi Elisa , Turchetti Giovanni , Zago Daniele , Tiezzi Antonio
Published: July 2019

The pepper tree Schinus molle L. is an evergreen ornamental plant belonging to the Anacardiaceae family, native to South America and widespread throughout the world. It has biological activities and is used in folk medicine. This paper aims to contribute to a deeper knowledge of its chemical composition and biological properties. S. molle leaf extracts were obtained by sequential extraction with solvents of different polarities and subsequently tested on the HL-60 human leukaemia cell line to define a possible cytotoxic activity. Among the investigated extracts, the petroleum ether extract revealed a high cytotoxic activity, and its chemical composition was further investigated. By a silica column chromatography, eight fractions were obtained, and their compositions were determined by GC-MS analysis. Compounds and relative abundance differed widely among the fractions; sesquiterpenes resulted the main component and alcoholic sesquiterpenes the most abundant.
A Study on the Energy Condition and Quantitative Analysis of the Occurrence of a Coal and Gas Outburst
Authors: Dai Linchao , Liu Yanbao , Cao Jie , Yang Xuelin , Sun Haitao , Wen Guangcai , Wang Bo
Published: July 2019

With mining depths increasing, coal and gas outburst disasters are becoming more and more serious and complicated, which directly restricts the production efficiency of coal mines. In order to study the rules of energy dissipation during the occurrence of a coal and gas outburst based on the occurrence mechanisms, a simulation experiment of a coal and gas outburst with a ground stress of 16 MPa and a gas pressure of 0.5 MPa was carried out using a self‐developed large‐scale coal and gas outburst simulation experimental system. A quantitative analysis was given based on the energy model. The results showed the following: (1) In the process of the coal and gas outburst, the main energy source originated from the elastic potential energy of the coal body and the gas internal energy. The main energy loss was used for coal crushing and throwing. (2) The outburst coal sample in this experiment had a mass of 18.094 kg, and the relative outburst intensity was 1.21%. Additionally, the farthest throwing distance of the outburst coal samples was 3.3 m away from the outburst hole wall. The distribution of the outburst coal sample decreased along the roadway, and the proportion of the coal sample grain size in each area first decreased and then increased with the decrease of the grain size. The coal samples with a grain size less than 0.2 mm after the outburst accounted for 6.34% of the mass of the total coal samples. (3) The elastic potential energy of the coal body accounted for 0.34% of the total outburst energy, while the gas internal energy accounted for 99.66%. It was verified that gas internal energy was the key energy source for the coal and gas outburst, and this internal energy was two orders of magnitude more than the elastic potential energy, playing a leading role in the outburst process. After the outburst initiation, most of the energy was consumed in coal crushing, which was in the same order of magnitude as the gas internal energy. Moreover, the energy losses due to friction, vibration, and sound during the outburst process comprised no more than 10% of the total energy. The research results can provide certain guidance for clarifying the mechanism of a coal and gas outburst and the quantitative analysis of outburst energy.
Timber Portal Frames vs Timber Truss‐Based Systems for Residential Buildings
Authors: Far Harry , Far Claire
Published: July 2019

A large number of structures have been built during or after the construction of a house or residential‐zoned building, which are not built at the same time and/or integrally with the structural integrity of the residential dwelling. These include carports, pergolas, sheds, and barns. The typical method of constructing these structures is a general timber truss and column system. The aim of this study is to look at the feasibility and economic incentive that may be gained from using a timber portal frame system, similar to the steel or timber portal frames used for larger industrial constructions, over the traditional timber truss and column arrangement. In this study, designs for three cases of timber truss and timber portals were carried out using industry appropriate methods and standards. Using the design information and data gathered through talks with industry professionals, both methods of construction were compared on cost and overall time duration. From the comparison of the truss and portal designs, the use of timber portal frames over timber truss systems proved to have advantage in relation to overall cost and man power involved. This could certainly affect the current attitude towards the construction of small residential buildings in the future.
Impact of Patient Beliefs on Blood Pressure Control in the General Population: Findings from the Population-Based STAAB Cohort Study
Authors: Tiffe Theresa , Morbach Caroline , Rücker Viktoria , Gelbrich Götz , Wagner Martin , Faller Hermann , Störk Stefan , Heuschmann Peter U.
Published: July 2019

Background. Effective antihypertensive treatment depends on patient compliance regarding prescribed medications. We assessed the impact of beliefs related towards antihypertensive medication on blood pressure control in a population-based sample treated for hypertension. Methods. We used data from the Characteristics and Course of Heart Failure Stages A-B and Determinants of Progression (STAAB) study investigating 5000 inhabitants aged 30 to 79 years from the general population of Würzburg, Germany. The Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire German Version (BMQ-D) was provided in a subsample without established cardiovascular diseases (CVD) treated for hypertension. We evaluated the association between inadequately controlled hypertension (systolic RR >140/90 mmHg; >140/85 mmHg in diabetics) and reported concerns about and necessity of antihypertensive medication. Results. Data from 293 participants (49.5% women, median age 64 years [quartiles 56.0; 69.0]) entered the analysis. Despite medication, half of the participants (49.8%) were above the recommended blood pressure target. Stratified for sex, inadequately controlled hypertension was less frequent in women reporting higher levels of concerns (OR 0.36; 95%CI 0.17-0.74), whereas no such association was apparent in men. We found no association for specific-necessity in any model. Conclusion. Beliefs regarding the necessity of prescribed medication did not affect hypertension control. An inverse association between concerns about medication and inappropriately controlled hypertension was found for women only. Our findings highlight that medication-related beliefs constitute a serious barrier of successful implementation of treatment guidelines and underline the role of educational interventions taking into account sex-related differences.
Microscopic Observation of Proliferative Membranes in Fibrocontractive Retinal Disorders
Authors: Frisina Rino , Tessarolo Francesco , Marchesoni Ivan , Piccoli Federico , Bonomi Emiliana , Caciagli Patrizio , Midena Edoardo , Nollo Giandomenico
Published: July 2019

Proliferative membranes of fibrocontractive retinal disorders are extensively studied from the morphological and evolutive point of view. Despite this, little is known of their cellular composition. In this study, the authors investigated the morphological characteristics and cell composition of various types of surgically excised proliferative membranes and internal limiting membranes (ILMs), in order to provide new data supporting or challenging the pathogenic theories proposed until now. Sixty-nine specimens from 64 eyes of 64 consecutive patients were collected at surgery and subjected to a multilevel analysis by means of optical and electron microscopy. Membrane samples were semiquantitatively evaluated for the amount and distribution of cell nuclei and pigment. Immunohistochemical staining was performed with antibodies to alpha smooth muscle actin and CD68. Data were analyzed after grouping according to the following tissue types: ILM (20 specimens), epiretinal membrane (ERM) (22 specimens), ILM + ERM (20 specimens), and proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) (7 specimens). The cell components found in the ERM specimens, like myofibroblasts, macrophages, and polymorphonuclear cells, were recognized as the expression of cell migration and differentiation that induced an inflammatory process and a fibroproliferative repair process. The detection of pigments in specific types of ERM, like those associated with lamellar macular hole (LMH) or secondary to retinal detachment (RD), diabetes, and PVR, suggested that retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells may have a role in the development of these vitreoretinal disorders. The reduction of the ERM cellularity with the patient’s age supports the hypothesis that ERM evolves in time up to a fibrous tissue formation.
Novel SUFU Frameshift Variant Leading to Meningioma in Three Generations in a Family with Gorlin Syndrome
Authors: Askaner Gustav , Lei Ulrikke , Bertelsen Birgitte , Venzo Alessandro , Wadt Karin
Published: July 2019

Gorlin syndrome is mainly caused by pathogenic germline variants in the tumour suppressor genes PTCH1 and SUFU, both regulatory genes in the hedgehog pathway. However, the phenotypes of patients with PTCH1 and SUFU pathogenic variants seem to differ. We present a family with a frameshift variant in the SUFU gene c.954del, p.Asn319Thrfs∗42 leading to meningiomas and multiple basal cell-carcinomas.
Endothelial Cell Development and Its Application to Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Qiu Jingyao , Hirschi Karen K.
Published: August 2019

The formation and remodeling of a functional circulatory system is critical for sustaining prenatal and postnatal life. During embryogenesis, newly differentiated endothelial cells require further specification to create the unique features of distinct vessel subtypes needed to support tissue morphogenesis. In this review, we explore signaling pathways and transcriptional regulators that modulate endothelial cell differentiation and specification, as well as applications of these processes to stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. We also summarize recent technical advances, including the growing utilization of single-cell sequencing to study vascular heterogeneity and development.
Natatolana neglecta (Isopoda, Cirolanidae): an increasing threat for artisanal fishing in the Turkish Aegean Sea
Authors: Kirkim Fevzi , Horton Tammy , Akyol Okan , Ceyhan Tevfik
Published: August 2019

Samples of the isopod Natatolana neglecta (Hansen, 1890) are reported herein from Güllük Bay, south-eastern Aegean Sea. In the last decade, the abundance of this species has been increasing in the area, and this has led to attacks on fishes captured with gillnets, at night. The small-scale fishermen now are forced to restrict their catch to a short period daily, and are showing concerns regarding the continuation of their fishing practice. Here, we present the first report on the occurrence of N. neglecta in the Bay of Güllük, and provide information on the threat of this species for coastal fishermen in the south-eastern Aegean Sea.
The Development of a Payment Regime for Deep Sea Mining Activities in the Area through Stakeholder Participation
Authors: Van Nijen Kris , Van Passel Steven , Brown Chris G. , Lodge Michael W. , Segerson Kathleen , Squires Dale
Published: August 2019

In July 2015, the Council of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) adopted seven priority deliverables for the development of the exploitation code. The first priority was the development of a zero draft of the exploitation regulations. This article focusses on the second priority deliverable, namely the development of a payment mechanism for exploitation activities, following detailed financial and economic models based on proposed business plans. Between 2015 and 2017, five workshops have been organised with 196 active participants from 34 countries. The results so far are synthesised, drawing upon the outcome of these workshops, ISA technical papers, and the scholarly literature.
Multifilament yarns of polyoxymethylene/poly(lactic acid) blends produced by a melt-spinning method
Authors: Pivsa-Art Weraporn , Pivsa-Art Sommai
Published: July 2019

Multifilament yarns of polyoxymethylene (POM) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA) blends were prepared using a melt-spinning method. The ratios of the POM/PLA fibers studied were 10/90, 30/70, 50/50, 70/30, and 10/90 by weight compared with that of the pure polymers. The extrusion of the dry blend polymers was carried out using a single-screw extruder at 180–210℃ with a winding speed of 800 m/min. The thermal and morphological analysis of the multifilament yarn confirmed the phase separation of the two polymers. However, the mechanical properties of the blends showed excellent elongation at break, which confirmed the good distribution of PLA in the POM matrix. POM/PLA with weight ratios of 70/30 and 90/10 showed high tenacity. The elongation of the POM/PLA blends shows excellent results, which is unusual for polymer blends with phase separation.
Global Pediatric Regulations: An Overview
Authors: Gadge Priya M. , Kenjale Prathmesh P. , Pokharkar Varsha B. , Gaikwad Vinod L.
Published: July 2019

The purpose of the present review is to summarize the current pediatric regulatory requirements and also the regulatory efforts that need to be taken for the potential benefits of safety and efficacy to the pediatric patients. The importance of pediatric regulations came into existence as adult physiological conditions differ from that of children; therefore, the same dosage regimen cannot be recommended for both. Children deviate from adults with respect to pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics, and hence the effect of the drug has to be reconfirmed for pediatrics. Drugs used in pediatric clinics are often considered as “therapeutic orphans” throughout the world as they are difficult to develop and are not provided with sufficient information. The number of clinical trials performed in children is not sufficient. At present, laws and regulations aimed at drug development in the pediatric field have not been focused significantly. There are different regulatory bodies that administrate the pediatric regulations for a particular region.
Performance of bio-ethylene propylene diene monomer (bio-EPDM) foam with mixed chemical and encapsulated blowing agents
Authors: Sang Joeng Seon , Park Eun-Young , Lim Sung-Wook , Park Soonjee , Oh Kyung Wha
Published: July 2019

Bio-EPDM, produced from sugarcane-derived ethylene, is an eco-friendly alternative material that can solve environmental pollution problems while showing performances similar to neoprene, a petroleum-based synthetic rubber. In this study, the optimum foaming conditions were determined for maximizing the properties of bio-EPDM foam for application in highly functional environment-friendly diving wetsuits. The bio-EPDM foam was prepared by mixing chemical and encapsulated blowing agents in different mixing ratios, and the mechanical properties, thermal stability, and salt-water resistance of the bio-EPDM foam were evaluated. The mechanical and elastic properties of the bio-EPDM foam decreased with increasing amount of encapsulated blowing agents, whereas the thermal stability and salt-water resistance remarkably improved with increasing mixing ratio of the encapsulated blowing agent. The mechanical properties and salt-water resistance of the bio-EPDM foam prepared using the mixed blowing agents were better than those of the foam prepared using a single blowing agent. At a mixing ratio of 2.5:2.5, a foam with excellent dimensional stability was achieved without a significant reduction in mechanical properties. In addition, the physical and mechanical properties of the bio-EPDM foams were not significantly affected by the curing system; however, the dimensional stability of the foam cured with the peroxide system was superior to that of the foam cured with sulfur system. Therefore, a proper control of the mixing ratio of chemical and encapsulated blowing agents can produce foams with optimal mechanical properties and salt-water resistance for application in watersport apparels.
Introduction
Authors: Wilson Rob
Published: July 2019

“Critique and Cosmos: After Masao Miyoshi” aims to activate some of the energies, tactics, critical forces, geopolitics, comparative poetics, and visions Masao Miyoshi carried out in his work from the 1970s into the present millennium: coming to terms with aftering this impact in temporal, border-crossing, translational, field-reframing, and revisionary senses.
“To Relearn the Sense of the World”
Authors: Layoun Mary N.
Published: July 2019

“‘To Relearn the Sense of the World’: A Call to Arms” rereads the work of Masao Miyoshi and the legacy of that work in attending to his imperative to “relearn the sense of the world” (or worlds) in which we reside and cohabit with others. The role in that relearning of higher education and of the humanities, as well as of social and of poetic practices, locally and internationally, is traced as suggested by and beyond Miyoshi’s writings.
But Then, What Is Culture?
Authors: Solt George
Published: July 2019

Reading Trespasses reminds us of Masao Miyoshi’s talent for asking deceptively simple questions and leading us down a path that leaves us with a deeper sense of crisis but also with new possibilities for imagining how to reconnect the dots.