bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meta-Analysis and Evidence Base for the Efficacy of Autologous Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Knee Cartilage Repair: Methodological Guidelines and Quality Assessment
Authors: Awad Mohamed E. , Hussein Khaled A. , Helwa Inas , Abdelsamid Mohamed F. , Aguilar-Perez Alexandra , Mohsen Ibrahim , Hunter Monte , Hamrick Mark W. , Isales Carlos M. , Elsalanty Mohammed , Hill William D. , Fulzele Sadanand
Published: April 2019

The aim of this study is to review all the published clinical trials on autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in the repair of cartilage lesions of the knee. We performed a comprehensive search in three electronic databases: PubMed, Medline via Ovid, and Web of Science. A systematic review was conducted according to the guidelines of PRISMA protocol and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. The modified Coleman methodology score was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the effect size for Pain and function change after receiving BM-MSCs. Thirty-three studies—including 724 patients of mean age 44.2 years—were eligible. 50.7% of the included patients received cultured BM-MSCs for knee cartilage repair. There was improvement in the MINORS quality score over time with a positive correlation with the publication year. Meta-analysis indicated better improvement and statistical significance in the Visual Analog Scale for Pain, IKDC Function, Tegner Activity Scale, and Lysholm Knee Score after administration of noncultured BM-MSCs when compared to evaluation before the treatment. Meanwhile, there was a clear methodological defect in most studies with an average modified Coleman methodology score (MCMS) of 55. BM-MSCs revealed a clinically relevant improvement in pain, function, and histological regeneration.
Different Brain Connectivity between Responders and Nonresponders to Dual-Mode Noninvasive Brain Stimulation over Bilateral Primary Motor Cortices in Stroke Patients
Authors: Lee Jungsoo , Lee Ahee , Kim Heegoo , Shin Mina , Yun Sang Moon , Jung Youngjin , Chang Won Hyuk , Kim Yun-Hee
Published: April 2019

Noninvasive brain stimulation (NBS), such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) or transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), has been used in stroke patients with motor impairment. NBS can help recovery from brain damage by modulating cortical excitability. However, the efficacy of NBS varies among individuals. To obtain insights of responsiveness to the efficacy of NBS, we investigated characteristic changes of the motor network in responders and nonresponders of NBS over the primary motor cortex (M1). A total of 21 patients with subacute stroke (13 males, mean age59.6±11.5years) received NBS in the same manner: 1 Hz rTMS on the contralesional M1 and anodal tDCS on the ipsilesional M1. Participants were classified into responders and nonresponders based on the functional improvement of the affected upper extremity after applying NBS. Twelve age-matched healthy controls (8 males, mean age56.1±14.3years) were also recruited. Motor networks were constructed using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. M1 intrahemispheric connectivity, interhemispheric connectivity, and network efficiency were measured to investigate differences in network characteristics between groups. The motor network characteristics were found to differ between both groups. Specifically, M1 intrahemispheric connectivity in responders showed a noticeable imbalance between affected and unaffected hemispheres, which was markedly restored after NBS. The responders also showed greater interhemispheric connectivity and higher efficiency of the motor network than the nonresponders. These results may provide insight on patient-specific NBS treatment based on the brain network characteristics in neurorehabilitation of patients with stroke. This trial is registered with trial registration numberNCT03390192.
Propionibacterium acnes Causing Mediastinal Infection following Endobronchial Ultrasound-Guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration
Authors: Janssen Katherine , Keenan Joseph , Cho Roy , Dincer Erhan
Published: April 2019

Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is now a standard of care to sample mediastinal lymph nodes and masses with high diagnostic accuracy and low complication rates. However, the procedure has potential complications that might be life-threatening. Here, we present the first case of Propionobacterium acnes (P. acnes) causing mediastinitis following EBUS-TBNA of a subcarinal lymph node.
Seismic Design of Bridges against Near‐Fault Ground Motions Using Combined Seismic Isolation and Restraining Systems of LRBs and CDRs
Authors: Li Xiaoli , Shi Yan
Published: April 2019

This paper focuses on the seismic isolation design of near‐fault bridges under the seismic excitations of near‐fault ground motions in high‐intensity earthquake zones and proposes a combined control system using lead rubber bearings (LRBs) and cable displacement restrainers (CDRs) along with ductility seismic resistance for the reinforced concrete piers. As part of the performance‐based seismic design framework, this study provides the quantitative design criteria for multilevel performance‐based objectives of a combined control system under conditions of frequent earthquake (E1), design earthquake (medium earthquake), and rare earthquake (E2). Moreover, in this study, a preliminary performance‐based seismic isolation design for a near‐fault actual highway bridge in high‐intensity earthquake zones (basic peak of ground acceleration 0.4 g) was developed. Using nonlinear time‐history analysis of the actual bridge under near‐fault ground motions, the feasibility of a performance‐based design method was validated. Furthermore, to ensure the predicted performance of the isolated bridges during a strong earthquake, a relatively quantitative design in structural details derived from the stirrup ratio of piers, expansion joints gap, supported length of capping beams, and limited vertical displacement response was obtained.
Distinct Prognostic Values of Phospholipase C Beta Family Members for Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Tengfang , Song Xiaowei , Liao Xiwen , Wang Xiangkun , Zhu Guangzhi , Yang Chengkun , Xie Xiaoyong
Published: April 2019

Background. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a main cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The relationships of the phospholipase C beta (PLCB) enzymes, which are encoded by the genes PLCB1, PLCB2, PLCB3, and PLCB4, with NSCLC have not been investigated. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to identify any correlations between NSCLC prognosis and the expression patterns of PLCB family members.Materials and Methods. The prognostic values of the PLCB gene family members in NSCLC patients were evaluated using the “Kaplan–Meier plotter” database, which includes updated gene expression data and survival information of a total of 1,926 NSCLC patients. The GeneMANIA plugin of Cytoscape software was used to evaluate the relationships of the four PLCB family members at the gene and protein levels. Gene ontology enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway analysis were performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery.Results. High mRNA expression levels of PLCB1, PLCB2, and PLCB3 were significantly associated with poor overall survival (OS) of all NSCLC patients and significantly associated with poor prognosis of adenocarcinoma. In contrast, high mRNA expression of PLCB4 was associated with better OS of adenocarcinoma patients. In addition, the expression levels of the PLCB family members were correlated to smoking status, clinical stage, and patient sex but not radiotherapy and chemotherapy outcomes.Conclusions. PLCB1, PLCB2, PLCB3, and PLCB4 appear to be potential biomarkers for the prognosis of patients with NSCLC. The prognostic values of the PLCB genes require further investigations.
Cooperative Closed-Loop Coded-MIMO Transmissions for Smart Grid Wireless Applications
Authors: Sarr Ndéye Bineta , Oyedapo Olufemi J. , Agba Basile L. , Gagnon François , Boeglen Hervé , Vauzelle Rodolphe
Published: April 2019

Inherent interfering signals generated by the underlying elements found in power substations have been known to span over consecutive noise samples, resulting in bursty interfering noise samples. In the impulsive noise environments, we elaborate a space-sensitive technique using multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), which is particularly well suited in these usually very difficult situations. We assume the availability of channel state information (CSI) at the transmitter to achieve typical MIMO system gains in ad hoc mode. In this paper, we show that more than 10 dB gains are obtained with the most efficient system that we propose for achieving smart grid application requirements. On the one hand, the results obviously illustrate that the max-dmin precoder associated with the rank metric coding scheme is especially adapted to minimize the bit error rate (BER) when a maximum likelihood (ML) receiver is employed. On the other hand, it is shown that a novel node selection technique can reduce the required nodes transmission energies.
Commuter Departure Time Choice Considering Parking Space Shortage and Commuter’s Bounded Rationality
Authors: Xue Yunqiang , Fan Huishu , Guan Hongzhi
Published: April 2019

In order to better understand how commuters decide departure time considering parking space shortage and commuters’ bounded rationality, the reference point hypothesis of prospect theory is applied in the departure time decision-making. Commuter personal perception differences, the road congestion situation, destination parking status, and other factors were also analysed in the influence of commuter departure time choice. Based on prospect theory, an experiment was designed to investigate the intention of the commuter departure time choice. The experiment results show that the commuter’s travel satisfaction and the departure time choice of the next trip are related to the parking space residual status after the commuter arrives at the destination. The satisfaction degree of the commuter is reduced, with the decrease of the remaining parking spaces. If the commuter is satisfied with the travel result, the commuter’s departure time of next trip tends to be later. In the case of illegal parking, different penalty measures may lead to different decisions of next departure time choice. A commuter tends to depart earlier when more severe punishment for illegal parking is enforced. The research results can reveal to some degree the travellers’ departure time choice behaviour when they face the risk of no parking spaces and provide a theoretical and practical support for parking management and car travelling decision.
New Discoveries in Enantiomeric Separation of Racemic Tofisopam
Authors: Bosits Miklós Hunor , Pálovics Emese , Madarász János , Fogassy Elemér
Published: April 2019

Resolution process of tofisopam has been re-evaluated now based on our new investigations. Originally, it was carried out in the water-chloroform system, where the intermediate salt of high diastereomeric excess was described as (R)-TOF·(R,R)-DBTA·(H2O)3. Opposed to previous assumptions, we have actually found that a different solvate composition, (R)-TOF‐(R,R)-DBTA-CHCl3, forms with chloroform, in which molecules of CHCl3 are captured and held with different strengths. Moreover, resolution of TOF with (R,R)-DBTA is possible (and favourable) in water-free solvent and solvent mixture. However, presence of chloroform is essential, and thus, chloroform is also a suitable solvent alone. Among the tested solvents, toluene-chloroform mixture results in the highest resolution efficiency, while the highest enantiomeric purity was achieved when acetonitrile was in the system too. Resolution efficiency can be also increased by using the quasi-racemic resolving agent and thermodynamic control. Purification of enantiomeric mixtures was examined, and recrystallization of the diastereomeric salt was found to be the most efficient solution. Instructive behaviour of the complex enantiomer-conformer system of tofisopam is emphasized.
Cardiac and Systemic Thrombus Caused by Drug Abuse
Authors: Eliveha John , Vindhyal Shravani , Vindhyal Mohinder
Published: April 2019

Drug abuse is an increasing concern all over the world especially in the United States. Methamphetamine have been well established to cause elevated body temperature, irregular heartbeat, seizures, and heart disease. We present a case of ventricular thrombus with systemic emboli in a patient with dilated cardiomyopathy after methamphetamine use.
Sevoflurane Preconditioning plus Postconditioning Decreases Inflammatory Response with Hemodynamic Recovery in Experimental Liver Ischemia Reperfusion
Authors: Figueira Estela Regina Ramos , Rocha-Filho Joel Avancini , Lanchotte Cinthia , Coelho Ana Maria Mendonça , Nakatani Mauro , Tatebe Eduardo Ryoiti , Lima Jonathan Augusto Venceslau , Mendes Camilla Oliveira , de Araujo Bruno Camargo Rocha Paim , Abdo Emilio Elias , D’Albuquerque Luiz Carneiro , Galvão Flavio Henrique Ferreira
Published: April 2019

Objective. The inhalation anesthetic sevoflurane has presented numerous biological activities, including anti-inflammatory properties and protective effects against tissue ischemic injury. This study investigated the metabolic, hemodynamic, and inflammatory effects of sevoflurane pre- and postconditioning for short periods in the rescue of liver ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury using a rat model. Materials and Methods. Twenty Wistar rats were divided into four groups: sham group, control ischemia group (partial warm liver ischemia for 45 min followed by 4 h of reperfusion), SPC group (administration of sevoflurane 2.5% for 15 min with 5 min of washout before liver IR), and SPPoC group (administration of sevoflurane 2.5% for 15 min before ischemia and 20 min during reperfusion). Results. All animals showed a decrease in the mean arterial pressure (MAP) and portal vein blood flow during ischemia. After 4 h of reperfusion, only the SPPoC group had MAP recovery. In both the SPC and SPPoC groups, there was a decrease in the ALT level and an increase in the bicarbonate and potassium serum levels. Only the SPPoC group showed an increase in the arterial blood ionized calcium level and a decrease in the IL-6 level after liver reperfusion. Therefore, this study demonstrated that sevoflurane preconditioning reduces hepatocellular injury and acid-base imbalance in liver ischemia. Furthermore, sevoflurane postconditioning promoted systemic hemodynamic recovery with a decrease in inflammatory response.
Optimal Location of Biogas Plants in Supply Chains under Carbon Effects: Insight from a Case Study on Animal Manure in North Dakota
Authors: Park Yong Shin , Szmerekovsky Joseph , Dybing Alan
Published: April 2019

Faced with increasing concerns over the negative environmental impact due to human and industrial activities, biomass industry practitioners and policy makers have great interest in green supply chains to reduce carbon emissions from supply chain activities. There are many studies which model the biomass supply chain and its environmental impact. However, animal waste sourced biogas supply chain has not received much attention in the literature. Biogas from animal manure not only provides energy efficiency, but also minimizes carbon emissions compared to existing biomass products. Therefore, this study proposes a mixed integer linear program that minimizes total supply costs and carbon emissions from an animal waste sourced biogas supply chain while it also incorporates carbon price in the model to see the impact of a carbon policy on tactical and strategic supply chain decisions. To validate the model proposed, a case study of North Dakota is adopted where there is a high potential for a biogas plant to be developed. The results of our optimization experiment indicate that supply chain performance in terms of both costs and emissions is very sensitive to a carbon pricing mechanism.
Suboptimal Midcourse Guidance with Terminal-Angle Constraint for Hypersonic Target Interception
Authors: Wan Shizheng , Chang Xiaofei , Li Quancheng , Yan Jie
Published: April 2019

For the problem of hypersonic target interception, a novel midcourse guidance method with terminal-angle constraint is proposed. Referring to the air-breathing and the boost-gliding hypersonic targets, flight characteristics and difficulties of interception are analyzed, respectively. The requirements of midcourse guidance for interceptors are provided additionally. The kinematics model of adversaries is established concerning line-of-sight coupling in longitudinal and lateral planes. Suboptimal guidance law with terminal-angle constraint, specifically the final line-of-sight angle or impact angle, is presented by means of model predictive static programming. The trajectory is optimized and the load factor would finally converge after penalizing control sequence and output deviations. The realization of terminal angle is firstly verified with a constant speed target. A full interception scenario is further simulated focusing on a typical boost-gliding target, which flies along a skipping trajectory. Results show the success of providing handover conditions for intercepting hypersonic targets.
Two-Week Repeated Oral Dose Toxicity Study of Mantidis Ootheca Water Extract in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Lim Hye-Sun , Seo Yun Soo , Ryu Seung Mok , Moon Byeong Cheol , Choi Goya , Kim Joong-Sun
Published: April 2019

Background. Mantidis Ootheca (MO), described as the ootheca of Hierodula patellifera Serville, 1839, Tenodera angustipennis (Saussure, 1869), or Statilia maculate (Thunberg, 1784) in Korean Herbal Pharmacopoeia, is an important herbal material that has been traditionally used for treating several medical conditions including renal failure, spermatorrhea, and pediatric enuresis in Korea. Objective. The present study investigated the potential subacute toxicity of MO water extract during a 2-week repeated oral administration of doses of 0, 50, 150, or 450 mg/kg/day to C57BL/6 male mice by gavage. Methods. The following parameters were examined during the study period: mortality, clinical signs, body weight, hematology, serum biochemistry, gross findings, organ weight, and histopathology. All the mice were euthanized at the end of the treatment period. Results. No treatment-related changes in mortalities, clinical signs, body weight, gross finding, and organ weight change were detected after 14 days of oral MO extract administration. In addition, no meaningful MO extract treatment-related changes were observed in the hematological, serum biochemical, and histopathological parameters compared with the normal control group following treatment with doses of up to 450 mg/kg/day. Conclusion. Based on these findings, we concluded that treatment of mice with the water extract of MO did not result in significant toxicity and, therefore, it could be considered safe for further pharmacological studies.
The Role of the Antioxidant Response in Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Degenerative Diseases: Cross-Talk between Antioxidant Defense, Autophagy, and Apoptosis
Authors: Huang Michael L.-H. , Chiang Shannon , Kalinowski Danuta S. , Bae Dong-Hun , Sahni Sumit , Richardson Des R.
Published: April 2019

The mitochondrion is an essential organelle important for the generation of ATP for cellular function. This is especially critical for cells with high energy demands, such as neurons for signal transmission and cardiomyocytes for the continuous mechanical work of the heart. However, deleterious reactive oxygen species are generated as a result of mitochondrial electron transport, requiring a rigorous activation of antioxidative defense in order to maintain homeostatic mitochondrial function. Indeed, recent studies have demonstrated that the dysregulation of antioxidant response leads to mitochondrial dysfunction in human degenerative diseases affecting the nervous system and the heart. In this review, we outline and discuss the mitochondrial and oxidative stress factors causing degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, and Friedreich’s ataxia. In particular, the pathological involvement of mitochondrial dysfunction in relation to oxidative stress, energy metabolism, mitochondrial dynamics, and cell death will be explored. Understanding the pathology and the development of these diseases has highlighted novel regulators in the homeostatic maintenance of mitochondria. Importantly, this offers potential therapeutic targets in the development of future treatments for these degenerative diseases.
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV): Infection, Immunological Response, and Vaccine Development
Authors: Mubarak Ayman , Alturaiki Wael , Hemida Maged Gomaa
Published: April 2019

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) first emerged in late 2012. Since its emergence, a total of 2279 patients from 27 countries have been infected across the globe according to a World Health Organization (WHO) report (Feb. 12th, 2019). Approximately 806 patients have died. The virus uses its spike proteins as adhesive factors that are proinflammatory for host entry through a specific receptor called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4). This receptor is considered a key factor in the signaling and activation of the acquired and innate immune responses in infected patients. Using potent antigens in combination with strong adjuvants may effectively trigger the activation of specific MERS-CoV cellular responses as well as the production of neutralizing antibodies. Unfortunately, to date, there is no effective approved treatment or vaccine for MERS-CoV. Thus, there are urgent needs for the development of novel MERS-CoV therapies as well as vaccines to help minimize the spread of the virus from infected patients, thereby mitigating the risk of any potential pandemics. Our main goals are to highlight and describe the current knowledge of both the innate and adaptive immune responses to MERS-CoV and the current state of MERS-CoV vaccine development. We believe this study will increase our understanding of the mechanisms that enhance the MERS-CoV immune response and subsequently contribute to the control of MERS-CoV infections.
Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress as Indicators of Fungi Environmental Pollution in Balb/c Albino Mice Monitored from South West, Nigeria
Authors: Odebode Adeyinka , Adekunle Adedotun
Published: April 2019

The presence and detection of common airborne fungi in an area are important for the prevention and treatment of allergic fungal diseases. Because of the ubiquitous nature of fungi, the effect of four different fungal species in production of antioxidant and reactive oxygen species production in balb/c albino mice was investigated. Fifty-four balb/c mice were randomly divided into eight groups (n = 6) and a normal control group. Four different fungal plates, comprising Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus penicillioides, Penicillium citrinum, and Penicillium chrysogenum, which were the most abundant fungi species sampled in the environment were cultured for one week to make 2.3 x 107 and 3.2 x 105 spores and injected intranasally in sterile saline into the nostrils of each of the mice. Results showed that all fungal inoculated organism produced statistically (P<0.05) significant reactive oxygen species while antioxidant parameters were significantly decreased in a dose dependent manner compared with normal control mice. It is therefore concluded that Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus penicillioides, Penicillium citrinum, and Penicillium chrysogenum can alter and decrease immune function in balb/c mice. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify the most common airborne fungal species present in Southwest Nigeria and to study their allergic reactions.
Study on the Damping Mechanism of the Shrouded Blade considering Contact Features
Authors: Li Chaofeng , Li Tao , Qiao Ruihuan , Wen Bangchun
Published: April 2019

A dynamic model of the rotating shrouded blade is established, considering the shroud mass, the Coriolis force, and the centrifugal stiffening effect. And a macroslip model of dry friction with variable normal load is established to simulate the separation‐contact‐stick‐slip state of the shroud. The Lagrangian equation is utilized to solve the differential motion equation, and the Galerkin method is used for discretization. The influence of shroud structure’s parameters such as rotational speed, contact angle, friction coefficient, clearance, and shroud position on the damping effect of the shroud is reviewed by means of amplitude‐frequency response and energy through the Newmark‐β numerical method. The results demonstrate that the damping effect of the shroud by contact is more obvious than by friction and the amplitude‐frequency curve of the shrouded blade shows a strong hard nonlinear phenomenon.
Transcatheter Atrial Septal Defect Closure in Children with and without Fluoroscopy: A Comparison
Authors: Ackermann S. , Quandt D. , Hagenbuch N. , Niesse O. , Christmann M. , Knirsch W. , Kretschmar O.
Published: April 2019

Objective. The aim of this study was to compare feasibility, effectiveness, safety, and outcome of atrial septal defect (ASD) device closure in children with and without fluoroscopy guidance. Methods and Results. Children undergoing transcatheter ASD closure between 2002 and 2016 were included into this single center, retrospective study. Patients were analysed in two groups [1: intraprocedural fluoroscopy ± transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) guidance; 2: TOE guidance alone]. Three-hundred-ninety-seven children were included, 238 (97 male) in group 1 and 159 (56 male) in group 2. Two-hundred-twenty-nine of 238 (96%) patients underwent successful fluoroscopy guided ASD closures versus 154/159 (97%) successful procedures with TOE guidance alone. Median weight (IQR) at intervention was 20kg (16.0-35.0) in group 1 versus 19.3kg (16.0-31.2) in group 2. Mean (SD) preinterventional ASD diameter was 12.4mm (4.4) in group 1 versus 12.2mm (3.9) in group 2. There was no significant difference in number of defects or characteristics of ASD rims. Median procedure time was shorter in group 2 [60min (47-86) versus 34min (28-44)]. Device-size-to-defect-ratio was similar in both groups [group 1: 1.07 versus group 2: 1.09]. There were less technical intraprocedural events in group 2 [10 (6.3%) versus 47 (20%)]. Intraprocedural complications were less frequent in group 2 [1 (0.6%) versus 8 (3.3%)]. Conclusion. Transcatheter ASD device closure with TOE guidance alone (i.e., without fluoroscopy) is as effective and safe as ASD closure with fluoroscopy guidance. As fluoroscopy remains an important adjunct to transoesophageal echocardiography, especially in complex defects and complications, procedures are always performed in a fully equipped cardiac catheterization laboratory.
Nondestructive Quantification of the Ripening Process in Banana (Musa AAB Simmonds) Using Multispectral Imaging
Authors: Santoyo-Mora Mauro , Sancen-Plaza Agustin , Espinosa-Calderon Alejandro , Barranco-Gutierrez Alejandro Israel , Prado-Olivarez Juan
Published: April 2019

The ripening process in bananas causes the waste of a significant part of the production of this fruit. The aim of this research is to find a new technique useful for identifying, registering, and quantifying the ripening process of a banana (Musa AAB Simmonds) at the seventh stage of the growing process. This quantification is proposed with a nondestructive technique based on processing multispectral images. This experiment used a set of multispectral imagery registered in a range of 270-1000 nm (from UV to IR) with the aid of a monochromatic camera and a set of 10 optical filters. Multispectral images were analyzed with three different techniques: Fourier fractal analysis, Hotelling transform, and homogeneity texture analysis based on cooccurrence matrix. First, a characteristic index was computed for each technique for a daily set of multispectral imagery. These indexes are slope index, for Fourier fractals; the average of the computed eigenvalues, with Hotelling transform; and the texture homogeneity value. These indexes were evaluated using the behavior of the resulting graphs for a seven-day period, being preferred those graphs with a tendency of decreasing values. Finally, the repeatability of each technique was evaluated by reproducing similar values for each day during the evaluation period. These three methods will be compared in this article in order to select the one with the best performance for measuring the ripening process in bananas. The obtained results show that it is possible to effectively isolate the brown spots from the banana peel with the Hotelling transform by using only 2 optical filters: visible (410-690 nm) and Near-IR (820-910 nm). With the resulting spectral image fusion it was possible to effectively describe the evolution of the brown spots present in the ripening process through the texture homogeneity criteria.
A New Mechanism for Generating Particle Number Asymmetry through Interactions
Authors: Morozumi Takuya , Nagao Keiko I. , Salim Adam Apriadi , Takata Hiroyuki
Published: April 2019

A new mechanism for generating particle number asymmetry (PNA) has been developed. This mechanism is realized with a Lagrangian including a complex scalar field and a neutral scalar field. The complex scalar carries U(1) charge which is associated with the PNA. It is written in terms of the condensation and Green’s function, which is obtained with two-particle irreducible (2PI) closed time path (CTP) effective action (EA). In the spatially flat universe with a time-dependent scale factor, the time evolution of the PNA is computed. We start with an initial condition where only the condensation of the neutral scalar is nonzero. The initial condition for the fields is specified by a density operator parameterized by the temperature of the universe. With the above initial conditions, the PNA vanishes at the initial time and later it is generated through the interaction between the complex scalar and the condensation of the neutral scalar. We investigate the case that both the interaction and the expansion rate of the universe are small and include their effects up to the first order of the perturbation. The expanding universe causes the effects of the dilution of the PNA, freezing interaction, and the redshift of the particle energy. As for the time dependence of the PNA, we found that PNA oscillates at the early time and it begins to dump at the later time. The period and the amplitude of the oscillation depend on the mass spectrum of the model, the temperature, and the expansion rate of the universe.
Solution to the Problem of a Mass Traveling on a Taut String via Integral Equation
Authors: Ferretti M. , Luongo A.
Published: April 2019

The problem of a massive taut string, traveled by a heavy point mass, moving with an assigned law, is formulated in a linear context. Displacements are assumed to be transverse, and the dynamic tension is neglected. The equations governing the moving boundary problem are derived via a variational principle, in which the geometric compatibility between the point mass and the string is enforced via a Lagrange multiplier, having the meaning of transverse reactive force. The equations are rearranged in the form of a unique Volterra integral equation in the reactive force, which is solved numerically. A classical Galerkin solution is implemented for comparison. Numerical results throw light on the physics of the phenomenon and confirm the effectiveness of the algorithm.
Metastable Reprogramming State of Single Transcription Factor-Derived Induced Hepatocyte-Like Cells
Authors: Hwang Seon In , Kwak Tae Hwan , Kang Ji Hyun , Kim Jonghun , Lee Hyunseong , Kim Kee-Pyo , Ko Kinarm , Schöler Hans R. , Han Dong Wook
Published: April 2019

We previously described the generation of induced hepatocyte-like cells (iHeps) using the hepatic transcription factor Hnf1a together with small molecules. These iHeps represent a hepatic state that is more mature compared with iHeps generated with multiple hepatic factors. However, the underlying mechanism of hepatic conversion involving transgene dependence of the established iHeps is largely unknown. Here, we describe the generation of transgene-independent iHeps by inducing the ectopic expression of Hnf1a using both an episomal vector and a doxycycline-inducible lentivirus. In contrast to iHeps with sustained expression of Hnf1a, transgene-independent Hnf1a iHeps lose their typical morphology and in vitro functionality with rapid downregulation of hepatic markers upon withdrawal of small molecules. Taken together, our data indicates that the reprogramming state of single factor Hnf1a-derived iHeps is metastable and that the hepatic identity of these cells could be maintained only by the continuous supply of either small molecules or the master hepatic factor Hnf1a. Our findings emphasize the importance of a factor screening strategy for inducing specific cellular identities with a stable reprogramming state in order to eventually translate direct conversion technology to the clinic.
Long Noncoding RNA LOC100129940-N Is Upregulated in Papillary Thyroid Cancer and Promotes the Invasion and Progression
Authors: Choy Manting , Guo Yan , Li Hai , Wei Guohong , Ye Runyi , Liang Weiwei , Xiao Haipeng , Li Yanbing , Guan Hongyu
Published: April 2019

Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy, and its incidence has increased rapidly in recent decades worldwide. Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common type of all thyroid cancers. The molecular mechanisms underlying the disease still need to be further investigated. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), a class of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) longer than 200 nucleotides, are aberrantly expressed in malignant diseases, including PTC. Here, we identified a novel isoform of LOC100129940 and designated it as LOC100129940-N. We demonstrated that the expression level of LOC100129940-N was elevated in PTC, indicating that LOC100129940-N may be involved in PTC development and progression. Moreover, our results showed that overexpression of LOC100129940-N promoted, whereas silencing of LOC100129940-N suppressed, PTC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. Mechanistically, LOC100129940-N played an important role in activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling and upregulating downstream target genes. Taken together, we demonstrate that LOC100129940-N promotes the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, which in turn regulates the downstream target genes, thereby enhancing invasion and progression of PTC.
Determining E-Bike Drivers’ Decision-Making Mechanisms during Signal Change Interval Using the Hidden Markov Driving Model
Authors: Dong Sheng , Zhou Jibiao , Zhang Shuichao
Published: April 2019

Rapidly increasing e-bike use in China has resulted in new traffic problems including rising accident rates at intersections related to e-bike drivers’ decision-making during multiple signal phases. Traditional one-step decision models (such as GHM) lack randomness and cannot adequately model e-bike drivers’ complex behavior. Therefore, this study used a Hidden Markov Driving Model (HMDM) to analyze e-bike drivers’ decision-making process based on high-resolution trajectory data. Video data were collected at three intersections in Shanghai and processed for use in the HMDM model. Five decision types (pass, stop, stop-pass, pass-stop, and multiple) composed of speed and acceleration/deceleration information were defined and used to analyze the impact of flashing green signals on e-bike drivers’ behavior and decision-making processes. Approximately 40% of drivers made multiple decisions during the flashing green and yellow signal phases, in contrast to the traditional GHM model assumption that drivers only make one decision. Distance from stop-line had the most obvious influence on the number of decisions. The use of flashing green signals nearly eliminated the dilemma zone for e-bike drivers but enlarged the option zone, inducing more stop/pass decisions. HMDM can be applied to improve the accuracy of traffic simulation, the fine design of traffic signals, the stability analysis of traffic control schemes, and so on.
Wirelessly Powered Endoscopically Implantable Devices into the Submucosa as the Possible Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Hajer J. , Novák M. , Rosina J.
Published: April 2019

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a rather common disease with a prevalence reaching up to 10 or 20% in the western world. The most specific symptoms which point to the diagnosis of GERD are feelings of heartburn and the regurgitation of acidic stomach contents into the esophagus. However, a certain number of patients do not respond to standard therapy, and in these cases, it is necessary to resort to other treatment methods, such as laparoscopic fundoplication or electrostimulation of the lower esophageal sphincter. The aim of our work was to design and manufacture a miniature, battery-less stimulator to provide electric stimulation of the lower esophageal sphincter, which could be implanted deep into the submucosa of the distal esophagus. The main goal was to provide a battery-less system as opposed to traditional battery neurostimulators to reduce the size and weight of the device. An electronic prototype of a wirelessly powered implantable device was developed. We used animal models for the experiments. The device is designed to treat GERD via electrical stimulation of the muscularis propria. It is implanted into the submucosal pocket by the lower esophageal sphincter with an endoscope. This method of implantation is superior to esophageal stimulators used today because of very low invasiveness of the surgery. Bipolar neurostimulation via two gold-plated leads is provided. The device does not have any source of energy; it is powered wirelessly which reduces the risk of potential battery leakage and reduces the overall dimensions.
Current Perspectives on Treatment of Gram-Positive Infections in India: What Is the Way Forward?
Authors: Kulkarni Atul P. , Nagvekar Vasant C. , Veeraraghavan Balaji , Warrier Anup R. , TS Deepak , Ahdal Jaishid , Jain Rishi
Published: April 2019

The emerging antimicrobial resistance leading to gram-positive infections (GPIs) is one of the major public health threats worldwide. GPIs caused by multidrug resistant bacteria can result in increased morbidity and mortality rates along with escalated treatment cost and hospitalisation stay. In India, GPIs, particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) prevalence among invasive S. aureus isolates, have been reported to increase exponentially from 29% in 2009 to 47% in 2014. Apart from MRSA, rising prevalence of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), which ranges from 1 to 9% in India, has raised concerns. Moreover, the overall mortality rate among patients with multidrug resistant GPIs in India is reported to be 10.8% and in ICU settings, the mortality rate is as high as 16%. Another challenge is the spectrum of adverse effects related to the safety and tolerability profile of the currently available drugs used against GPIs which further makes the management and treatment of these multidrug resistant organisms a complex task. Judicious prescription of antimicrobial agents, implementation of antibiotic stewardship programmes, and antibiotic policies in hospitals are essential to reduce the problem of drug-resistant infections in India. The most important step is development of newer antimicrobial agents with novel mechanisms of action and favourable pharmacokinetic profile. This review provides a synopsis about the current burden, treatment options, and the challenges faced by the clinicians in the management of GPIs such as MRSA, Quinolone-resistant Staphylococcus, VRE, and drug-resistant pneumococcus in India.
Model Predictive Control of Electric Spring for Voltage Regulation and Harmonics Suppression
Authors: Zou Yun , Hu Yinlong , Cao Sifan
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a model predictive control (MPC) strategy for electric spring (ES) to address the power quality problems, especially voltage regulation and harmonic suppression, which are more acute for a growing proportion of renewable energy generation to the grid. A Kalman filter is used to estimate the random variation of the supply voltage and extract the fundamental and harmonic components of the supply voltage, respectively. In this way, the supply voltage, which is treated as an external disturbance for the plant, can be established in the state‐space model form. Such processing brings great convenience to the application of MPC and also lays a foundation for MPC to achieve an ideal control effect. Based on an integrated state‐space model of the supply voltage and the ES, an MPC controller is designed for power quality improvement. Simulation studies are carried out and the simulation results are presented to verify the effectiveness and accuracy of the control strategy.
Multidisciplinary Approach to Cover an Apex-Exposed Tooth: A Case Report after 6-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Kissa Jamila , El Kholti Wafa , Sekak Khadija , Chemlali Sihame
Published: April 2019

Introduction. The prognosis for a successful treatment of gingival recessions (GRs) is one of the main criteria for deciding whether or not and how to perform root coverage surgery. The defect-related factors are the most important to predict root coverage outcomes. Thus, severe GR could make the root coverage (RC) challenging especially in cases with advanced interdental clinical attachment loss (ICAL). Case Presentation. This case report demonstrates a challenging management of a deep localized Miller Class III GR with root apex exposure associated with ICAL. After initial therapy, the treatment had consisted of a multidisciplinary approach involving endodontic treatment, periodontal plastic surgery including a laterally positioned flap, and orthodontic treatment. The 6-year follow-up showed improvement in clinical outcomes (recession reduction (RR) and keratinized tissue (KT) augmentation) and a higher patient satisfaction. Conclusions. This case report demonstrates the role of the multidisciplinary approach in the management of deep GRs associated with ICAL. A rational choice of the RC technique was critical to achieve good clinical outcomes.
Omental Infarction with Acute Appendicitis in an Overweight Young Female: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Mani Vishnu R. , Razdan Shantanu , Orach Tonny , Kalabin Aleksandr , Patel Rinil , Elsaadi Ali , Sullivan Kiyoe , Gattorno Federico
Published: April 2019

Omental infarction is an uncommon cause of acute abdomen but one that clinically mimics more serious and common causes of acute abdomen like appendicitis and cholecystitis. Historically, it was diagnosed only intraoperatively during surgery for presumed appendicitis or other causes of acute abdomen. But with the increase in the use of imaging, especially abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan in the work-up for acute abdomen, more cases of omental infarction are being diagnosed preoperatively. This has also led to the observation that omental infarction is a self-limiting condition which can be managed conservatively. Currently, conservative management and surgery are the only treatment options for omental infarction with no consensus as to the best treatment modality. Having a patient with both acute appendicitis and omental infarction simultaneously is extremely rare with only two reported cases in the literature thus far. Here, we present a 10-year-old obese female who presented to our hospital with acute abdomen and was found to have acute appendicitis and omental infarction. The patient underwent laparoscopic appendectomy and resection of the infarcted omentum and had uneventful recovery and was discharged on the second postoperative day. In this report, we present a review of current literature on omental infarction and highlight the importance of imaging especially abdominal CT scan in the nonoperative diagnosis and treatment of omental infarction.
Weed Control in Corn and Soybean with Group 15 (VLCFA Inhibitor) Herbicides Applied Preemergence
Authors: Soltani Nader , Brown Lynette R. , Sikkema Peter H.
Published: April 2019

Limited information exists on the efficacy of pethoxamid for annual grass and broadleaf control in corn and soybean in Ontario. A total of 10 field experiments (5 with corn and 5 with soybean) were conducted during 2015 to 2017 in Ontario, Canada, to compare the weed control efficacy of dimethenamid-P at 544 g·ai·ha−1, pethoxamid at 840 g·ai·ha−1, pyroxasulfone at 100 g·ai·ha−1, and S-metolachlor at 1050 g·ai·ha−1 applied preemergence (PRE). Reduced weed interference with pyroxasulfone and dimethenamid-P resulted in corn yield that was similar to the weed-free control; however, weed interference with pethoxamid and S-metolachlor reduced corn yield 28 and 33%, respectively. Reduced weed interference with pyroxasulfone resulted in soybean yield that was similar to the weed-free control; however, weed interference with pethoxamid, dimethenamid-P, and S-metolachlor reduced soybean yield 27, 27, and 30%, respectively. At 4 and 8 weeks after application (WAA), all VLCFA inhibitor herbicides (Group 15) provided excellent redroot pigweed control (90 to 99%) in corn. There were no differences in common ragweed control, density, and dry weight among the VLCFA inhibitor herbicide evaluated; pyroxasulfone provided highest numeric common ragweed control and lowest numeric density and dry weight. At 4 and 8 WAA, pyroxasulfone provided the best common lambsquarters and wild mustard control and lowest numeric density and dry weight in corn and soybean. At 8 WAA, the VLCFA inhibitor herbicides controlled green foxtail 91 to 96% in corn; dimethenamid-P provided better control of green foxtail than pethoxamid in soybean. There were no differences in barnyard grass control among the VLCFA inhibitor herbicides evaluated.