bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the pavement surface on the vibrations induced by heavy traffic in road bridges
Authors: Camara A. , Vázquez V.F. , Ruiz-Teran A.M. , Paje S.E.
Published: September 2017

The irregularity of the pavement surface governs the traffic-induced vibrations in road bridges, but it is either ignored or simulated by means of ideal pavements that differ significantly from real cases. This work presents a detailed dynamic analysis of a heavy truck crossing a 40 m span composite deck bridge using on-site measurements of different existing road profiles, as well as code-based ideal pavements. By activating or deactivating certain spatial frequency bands of the pavement, it is observed that the ranges 0.2–1 and 0.02–0.2 cycles/m are critical for the comfort of the pedestrians and the vehicle users, respectively. Well maintained roads with low values of the displacement power spectral density (PSD) associated with these spatial frequency ranges could reduce significantly the vibration on the sidewalks and, specially, in the vehicle cabin. Finally, a consistent road categorization for vibration assessment based on the PSD of the pavement irregularity evaluated at the dominant frequencies is proposed.
Thermal and cytokine responses to endotoxin challenge during early life
Authors: McDonald Fiona B. , Khawaja Ahmad M. , Imran Ahmad A. , Ellis Margot E. , Chandrasekharan Kumaran , Hasan Shabih U.
Published: September 2017

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) remains the leading cause of infant mortality beyond the neonatal period. An increase in body temperature as a result of high environmental temperature, overwrapping of infants, and (or) infection are associated with SIDS. Endotoxins such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and heat stress may perturb cardiorespiratory function and thermoregulation. Although LPS-mediated body temperature and cytokine responses are well documented in older animals, the capacity of LPS to induce fever and cytokine response in young rats remains unclear. Therefore, we sought to investigate the acute effects of LPS on body temperature and cytokine concentrations in rat pups. Postnatal day 7 rat pups were divided into 3 groups: Group 1, rats were administered LPS intraperitoneally (200 μg/kg); Group 2, rats received saline at volume equal to that administered in the LPS group; Group 3, rats received no treatment. Pups were placed in custom-made chambers maintained at ambient temperature of 33 °C. Body surface temperature was continuously monitored for 4 h. Thereafter, the rats were euthanized and serum was collected for cytokine analysis. We demonstrate that LPS treatment increased MIP-1α, IL-10, MCP-1, IP-10, fractalkine, and TNF-α with no concurrent rise in body surface temperature. Although neonatal rats produced an array of cytokines in response to LPS, there was no evidence of fever.
Change and Maintenance Method for 3D Machining Procedure Model Based on Design Structure Matrix
Authors: Xiang Ying , Mo Rong , Qiao Hu
Published: September 2017

A change and maintenance method is proposed based on the change propagation model and the procedure model information for solving data maintenance problem of 3D machining procedure model change and to help improve the flexibility of 3D machining procedure model and the reliability of the change result. Design Structure Matrix (DSM) is established by analyzing the relationships between machining features in the machining process route to obtain all possible propagation paths. On the basis of obtained paths, machining features that may be affected and machining procedure models related to machining features are stored by the structured method. Algorithms to solve the problems of adding, deleting and modifying machining features are proposed to realize the change and maintenance of 3D machining procedure model by combining machining procedure model’s information in the machining process route. In the end, some numerical examples are given to explain both rationality and feasibility of the proposed approaches.
A Method for the Portfolio Selection Considering the Psychological Behaviors and the Mental Accounts of the Investor
Authors: Fan Zhi-Ping , Cao Bing-Bing
Published: September 2017

In real portfolio selection, the investor usually exhibits some psychological behaviors such as reference dependence, loss aversion and so on and also has the requirements of wealth expectation in his/her mental accounts, but the in-depth study on this aspect is still lacking. The objective of this paper is to develop a method for the portfolio selection in which the multiple psychological behaviors (i.e., the reference dependence, the probability overestimation or underestimation, the loss aversion and the diminishing sensitivity) and the mental accounts of the investor are considered simultaneously. First, for the multiple psychological behaviors of the investor, the calculation formula of overall comprehensive utility of portfolio of all the candidate assets is given according to the cumulative prospect theory. Then, a portfolio optimization model with the probabilistic constraints is constructed to determine the desirable portfolio. For the model, the objective is to maximize the overall comprehensive utility of portfolio of the assets, and the requirements of the wealth expectations in the mental accounts of the investor and the limitation of initial investment wealth are considered as the constraints. Further, the definition of the available state set is given, and the available state sets for each mental account can be determined according to the definition. Based on the determined available state sets, the model can be converted into the multiple linear integer programming problems. By solving the linear integer programming problems, the optimal portfolio can be obtained. In addition, a numerical example is used to illustrate the use of the proposed method. Finally, an empirical study is given to validate our research work.
Safe Control of Autonomous & Connected Vehicles (SCAV'17)
Authors: Gleirscher Mario , Kugele Stefan , Sprinkle Jonathan
Published: September 2017

In this report, we summarize topics, challenges, and research questions discussed in the workshop contributions and during the sessions of our workshop. This summary has the purpose of leveraging the transfer of our findings into future activities of the automatic vehicle control (AVC) community.
An Information-Based Classification of Elementary Cellular Automata
Authors: Borriello Enrico , Imari Walker Sara
Published: September 2017

We propose a novel, information-based classification of elementary cellular automata. The classification scheme proposed circumvents the problems associated with isolating whether complexity is in fact intrinsic to a dynamical rule, or if it arises merely as a product of a complex initial state. Transfer entropy variations processed by cellular automata split the 256 elementary rules into three information classes, based on sensitivity to initial conditions. These classes form a hierarchy such that coarse-graining transitions observed among elementary rules predominately occur within each information-based class or, much more rarely, down the hierarchy.
Comparison of Different Turbulence Models for Numerical Simulation of Pressure Distribution in V‐Shaped Stepped Spillway
Authors: Bai Zhaoliang , Zhang Jianmin
Published: September 2017

V‐shaped stepped spillway is a new shaped stepped spillway, and the pressure distribution is quite different from that of the traditional stepped spillway. In this paper, five turbulence models were used to simulate the pressure distribution in the skimming flow regimes. Through comparing with the physical value, the realizable k‐ε model had better precision in simulating the pressure distribution. Then, the flow pattern of V‐shaped and traditional stepped spillways was given to illustrate the unique pressure distribution using realizable k‐ε turbulence model.
Optimization Method of the Car Seat Rail Abnormal Noise Problem Based on the Finite Element Method
Authors: Yu Huijie , Zhang Xinkan , Zhang Chen
Published: September 2017

The finite element model of the seat rail is established with a spring-damping element to simulate the ball in the rail joint part. The stiffness and damping parameters of the joint part are determined by the combination of finite element method and experiment. Firstly, the natural frequencies and modes of the guide rail are obtained by modal experiment. The stiffness of the spring-damping element is optimized in the finite element software to make the natural frequencies and modes of the system consistent with the experimental ones. Secondly, the dynamic response curve of the key nodes is obtained through sweeping experiment, and the damping of the spring-damping element is optimized in the finite element software to make the nodal response of the system output consistent with the experiment. Then, the gap of the joint part of the car seat rail is studied considering the factors of load and structure randomness. The influence factors of the gap are selected by Hammersley experimental design method. The results show that the gap is normally distributed, and therefore the confidence interval of the gap is obtained. Finally, the joint probability distribution of the gap is obtained under the condition that the load and the structure are all random, which provides the theoretical guidance for determining the reasonable gap of the joint.
Possibilities of the Additional Damping of Unidirectional Fiber Composites by Implementation of Viscoelastic Neoprene and Rubber Layers
Authors: Kulhavy Petr , Petru Michal , Syrovatkova Martina
Published: September 2017

The aim of the presented work is to assess modal, transmission, and damping characteristics of layered carbon plates. The base is to carry experimental analysis verified by FEM model, which evaluates the vibration transfer of tested composites and describes possibilities of additional damping by implementation of viscoelastic layers. Preimpregnated carbon fibers known as prepreg were used for creation of the samples composed of four (2 constant and 2 variable) layers. The task was to assess impact of changing the fiber orientation on the transfer function and individual modal characteristics. As another option, testing of some additional damping materials was included. Neoprene and thin rubber coat were added as an outside damping element when the neoprene ply was inserted also among the layers. Expected dependence of the plies orientation onto the shape of the transfer function and even swapping of some of MOD characters (bending, torsion, and their combinations) have been found. The use of the additional damping materials is also possible but the right combination of the individual plies layout and stacking sequence is the most significant part. The results had been statistically analyzed and showed that the created layered shell FE models could be used to describe the behavior.
Measurements of Corneal Thickness in Eyes with Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome: Comparative Study of Different Image Processing Protocols
Authors: Krysik Katarzyna , Dobrowolski Dariusz , Polanowska Katarzyna , Lyssek-Boron Anita , Wylegala Edward A.
Published: September 2017

Purpose. Comparative analysis of central and peripheral corneal thickness in PEX patients using three different imaging systems: Pentacam-Scheimpflug device, time-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) Visante, and swept-source OCT Casia. Materials and Methods. 128 eyes of 80 patients with diagnosed PEX were examined and compared with 112 normal, non-PEX eyes of 72 cataract patients. The study parameters included 5 measured zones: central and 4 peripheral (superior, inferior, nasal, and temporal). Results. The mean CCT in eyes with PEX syndrome measured with all three instruments was thicker than that in normal eyes. Corneal thickness measurements in the PEX group were statistically significantly different between Pentacam and OCT Casia: central corneal thickness (p=0.04), inferior corneal zone (p=0.01), and nasal and temporal corneal zones (p<0.01). Between Pentacam and OCT Visante inferior, nasal and temporal corneal zones were statistically significantly different (p<0.01). Between OCT Casia and OCT Visante, there were no statistically significant differences in measured parameters values. Conclusion. The central corneal thickness in eyes with PEX syndrome measured with three different independent methods is higher than that in the non-PEX group, and despite variable peripheral corneal thickness, this one parameter is still crucial in intraocular pressure measurements.
Chronic Hyperglycemia Modulates Rat Osteoporotic Cortical Bone Microarchitecture into Less Fragile Structures
Authors: de Mello-Sampayo Cristina , Agripino Alaíde Alves , Stilwell Duarte , Vidal Bruno , Fernando Ana Luisa , Silva-Lima Beatriz , Vaz Maria Fátima , Canhão Helena , Marques M. Cristina
Published: September 2017

There is controversy concerning the diabetes impact on bone quality, notorious in type 2 diabetic postmenopausal women. One pointed cause might be uncontrolled glycemia. In this study, the effect of chronic hyperglycemia in bone turnover, morphology, and biomechanics was evaluated in female Wistar rats in the presence/absence of estrogens (ovariectomy). Animals (n=28) were divided into sham, ovariectomized (OVX), hyperglycemic (streptozotocin 40 mg/kg, single-dose i.p.-STZ), and hyperglycemic-ovariectomized (STZ + OVX) animals. Blood biomarkers were estimated 60 days postovariectomy. Body weight, vertebral microarchitecture (L4-histomorphometry), femur biomechanical properties (bending tests), tibia ultrastructure (scanning electron microscopy), and femur and urinary calcium (atomic absorption) were also evaluated. The increased PINP/CTX ratio of hyperglycemic animals and the similar ratio between STZ + OVX and healthy animals contrasting with the lower ratio of OVX (in line with its histomorphometric data) suggest a tendency for improved bone formation in hyperglycemic-ovariectomized animals. The increased tibia medullar canal, which contrasts with the unaffected cortical thickness of both hyperglycemic groups while that of OVX decreased, was associated to the increased stiffness and strength of STZ + OVX bones compared to those of OVX, in line with the observed ultrastructure. Concluding, chronic hyperglycemia in ovariectomized female rats causes bone morphological changes that translate positively in the ultrastructure and mechanical properties of cortical bones.
Enhanced Orthogonal Matching Pursuit Algorithm and Its Application in Mechanical Equipment Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Lv Yong , Luo Jie , Yi Cancan
Published: September 2017

The vibration signal measured from the mechanical equipment is associated with the operation of key structure, such as the rolling bearing and gear. The effective signal processing method for early weak fault has attracted much attention and it is of vital importance in mechanical fault monitoring and diagnosis. The recently proposed atomic sparse decomposition algorithm is performed around overcomplete dictionary instead of the traditional signal analysis method using orthogonal basis operator. This algorithm has been proved to be effective in extracting useful components from complex signal by reducing influence of background noises. In this paper, an improved linear frequency-modulated (Ilfm) function as an atom is employed in the proposed enhanced orthogonal matching pursuit (EOMP) algorithm. Then, quantum genetic algorithm (QGA) with the OMP algorithm is integrated since the QGA can quickly obtain the global optimal solution of multiple parameters for rapidly and accurately extracting fault characteristic information from the vibration signal. The proposed method in this paper is superior to the traditional OMP algorithm in terms of accuracy and reducing the computation time through analyzing the simulation data and real world data. The experimental results based on the application of gear and bearing fault diagnosis indicate that it is more effective than traditional method in extracting fault characteristic information.
Effects of Renal Denervation on Insulin Sensitivity and Inflammatory Markers in Nondiabetic Patients with Treatment-Resistant Hypertension
Authors: Kampmann Ulla , Mathiassen Ole N. , Christensen Kent L. , Buus Niels H. , Bjerre Mette , Vase Henrik , Møller Niels , Kaltoft Anne , Poulsen Per L.
Published: September 2017

Increased sympathetic activity is important in the pathogenesis of hypertension and insulin resistance. Afferent signaling from the kidneys elevates the central sympathetic drive. We investigated the effect of catheter-based renal sympathetic denervation (RDN) on glucose metabolism, inflammatory markers, and blood pressure in nondiabetic patients with treatment-resistant hypertension. Eight subjects were included in an open-labelled study. Each patient was studied before and 6 months after RDN. Endogenous glucose production was assessed by a 3-3H glucose tracer, insulin sensitivity was examined by hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp, hormones and inflammatory markers were analyzed, and blood pressure was measured by office blood pressure readings and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. Insulin sensitivity (M-value) increased nonsignificantly from 2.68 ± 0.28 to 3.07 ± 0.41 (p=0.12). A significant inverse correlation between the increase in M-value and BMI 6 months after RDN (p=0.03) was found, suggesting beneficial effects on leaner subjects. Blood pressure decreased significantly, but there were no changes in hormones, inflammatory markers, or endogenous glucose production. Our results indicate that RDN may improve insulin sensitivity in some patients with treatment-resistant hypertension, albeit confirmation of these indications of beneficial effects on leaner subjects awaits the outcome of larger randomized controlled studies.
A Branch and Bound Algorithm for Agile Earth Observation Satellite Scheduling
Authors: Chu Xiaogeng , Chen Yuning , Xing Lining
Published: September 2017

The agile earth observing satellite scheduling (AEOSS) problem consists of scheduling a subset of images among a set of candidates that satisfy imperative constraints and maximize a gain function. In this paper, we consider a new AEOSS model which integrates a time-dependent temporal constraint. To solve this problem, we propose a highly efficient branch and bound algorithm whose effective ingredients include a look-ahead construction method (for generating a high quality initial lower bound) and a combined use of three pruning strategies (which help to prune a large portion of the search space). We conducted computational experiments on a set of test data that were generated with information from real-life scenarios. The results showed that the proposed algorithm is efficient enough for engineering application. In particular, it is able to solve instances with 55 targets to optimality within 164 seconds on average. Furthermore, we carried out additional experiments to analyze the contribution of each key algorithm ingredient.
Vitamin D Supplementation Improves Mood in Women with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Penckofer Sue , Byrn Mary , Adams William , Emanuele Mary Ann , Mumby Patricia , Kouba Joanne , Wallis Diane E.
Published: September 2017

Objective. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of vitamin D supplementation on improving mood (depression and anxiety) and health status (mental and physical) in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods. Fifty women with T2DM and significant depressive symptomology were enrolled into the “Sunshine Study,” where weekly vitamin D supplementation (ergocalciferol, 50,000 IU) was given to all participants for six months. The main outcomes included (1) depression (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression, CES-D, and Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-9), (2) anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety), and (3) health status (Short Form, SF-12). Results. Forty-six women (92%) completed all visits. There was a significant decrease in depression (CES-D and PHQ-9, p<0.001) and anxiety (state and trait, p<0.001). An improvement in mental health status (SF-12, p<0.001) was also found. After controlling for covariates (race, season of enrollment, baseline vitamin D, baseline depression (PHQ-9), and body mass index), the decline in depression remained significant (CES-D, p<0.001). There was a trend for a better response to supplementation for women who were not taking medications for mood (antidepressants or anxiolytics) (p=0.07). Conclusions. Randomized trials to confirm that vitamin D supplementation can improve mood and health status in T2DM women are needed.
Increased Serum ANGPTL8 Concentrations in Patients with Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Yin Yanhua , Ding Xiaoying , Peng Liang , Hou Yanqiang , Ling Yunxia , Gu Mingyu , Wang Yufan , Peng Yongde , Sun Haiyan
Published: September 2017

The objectives of the study were to investigate serum ANGPTL8 concentrations in different glucose metabolic statuses and to explore the correlations between serum ANGPTL8 levels and various metabolic parameters. Serum ANGPTL8 levels were determined using ELISA in 22 subjects with NGT (normal glucose tolerance), 74 subjects with IGR (impaired glucose regulation), and 33 subjects with T2DM (type 2 diabetes mellitus). Subjects with IFG, IGT, CGI, and T2DM had higher levels of serum ANGPTL8 than subjects with NGT. Serum ANGPTL8 was positively correlated with FPG, fasting C-peptide, and postprandial C-peptide and negatively correlated with BETA/IR when adjusted for age and BMI. Multivariate analysis suggested FPG and fasting C-peptide as independent factors associated with serum ANGPTL8 levels. Serum ANGPTL8 concentrations were significantly increased in IGR and T2DM. Serum ANGPTL8 might play a role in the pathological mechanism of glucose intolerance.
The Contribution of Singlet Oxygen to Insulin Resistance
Authors: Onyango Arnold N.
Published: September 2017

Insulin resistance contributes to the development of diabetes and cardiovascular dysfunctions. Recent studies showed that elevated singlet oxygen‐mediated lipid peroxidation precedes and predicts diet‐induced insulin resistance (IR), and neutrophils were suggested to be responsible for such singlet oxygen production. This review highlights literature suggesting that insulin‐responsive cells such as endothelial cells, hepatocytes, adipocytes, and myocytes also produce singlet oxygen, which contributes to insulin resistance, for example, by generating bioactive aldehydes, inducing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and modifying mitochondrial DNA. In these cells, nutrient overload leads to the activation of Toll‐like receptor 4 and other receptors, leading to the production of both peroxynitrite and hydrogen peroxide, which react to produce singlet oxygen. Cytochrome P450 2E1 and cytochrome c also contribute to singlet oxygen formation in the ER and mitochondria, respectively. Endothelial cell‐derived singlet oxygen is suggested to mediate the formation of oxidized low‐density lipoprotein which perpetuates IR, partly through neutrophil recruitment to adipose tissue. New singlet oxygen‐involving pathways for the formation of IR‐inducing bioactive aldehydes such as 4‐hydroperoxy‐(or hydroxy or oxo)‐2‐nonenal, malondialdehyde, and cholesterol secosterol A are proposed. Strategies against IR should target the singlet oxygen‐producing pathways, singlet oxygen quenching, and singlet oxygen‐induced cellular responses.
Development of an Automatic Dispensing System for Traditional Chinese Herbs
Authors: Lin Chi-Ying , Hsieh Ping-Jung
Published: September 2017

The gathering of ingredients for decoctions of traditional Chinese herbs still relies on manual dispensation, due to the irregular shape of many items and inconsistencies in weights. In this study, we developed an automatic dispensing system for Chinese herbal decoctions with the aim of reducing manpower costs and the risk of mistakes. We employed machine vision in conjunction with a robot manipulator to facilitate the grasping of ingredients. The name and formulation of the decoction are input via a human-computer interface, and the dispensing of multiple medicine packets is performed automatically. An off-line least-squared curve fitting method was used to calculate the amount of material grasped by the claws and thereby improve system efficiency as well as the accuracy of individual dosages. Experiments on the dispensing of actual ingredients demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed system.
The p97 Inhibitor CB-5083 Is a Unique Disrupter of Protein Homeostasis in Models of Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Le Moigne Ronan , Aftab Blake T. , Djakovic Stevan , Dhimolea Eugen , Valle Eduardo , Murnane Megan , King Emily M. , Soriano Ferdie , Menon Mary-Kamala , Wu Zhi Yong , Wong Stephen T. , Lee Grace J. , Yao Bing , Wiita Arun P. , Lam Christine , Rice Julie , Wang Jinhai , Chesi Marta , Bergsagel P. Leif , Kraus Marianne , Driessen Christoph , Kiss Von Soly Szerenke , Yakes F. Michael , Wustrow David , Shawver Laura , Zhou Han-Jie , Martin Thomas G. , Wolf Jeffrey L. , Mitsiades Constantine S. , Anderson Daniel J. , Rolfe Mark
Published: September 2017

Inhibition of the AAA ATPase, p97, was recently shown to be a novel method for targeting the ubiquitin proteasome system, and CB-5083, a first-in-class inhibitor of p97, has demonstrated broad antitumor activity in a range of both hematologic and solid tumor models. Here, we show that CB-5083 has robust activity against multiple myeloma cell lines and a number of in vivo multiple myeloma models. Treatment with CB-5083 is associated with accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins, induction of the unfolded protein response, and apoptosis. CB-5083 decreases viability in multiple myeloma cell lines and patient-derived multiple myeloma cells, including those with background proteasome inhibitor (PI) resistance. CB-5083 has a unique mechanism of action that combines well with PIs, which is likely owing to the p97-dependent retro-translocation of the transcription factor, Nrf1, which transcribes proteasome subunit genes following exposure to a PI. In vivo studies using clinically relevant multiple myeloma models demonstrate that single-agent CB-5083 inhibits tumor growth and combines well with multiple myeloma standard-of-care agents. Our preclinical data demonstrate the efficacy of CB-5083 in several multiple myeloma disease models and provide the rationale for clinical evaluation as monotherapy and in combination in multiple myeloma. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(11); 2375–86. ©2017 AACR.
Genetic Counselling Pitfall: Co-Occurrence of an 11.8-Mb Xp22 Duplication and an Xp21.2 Duplication Disrupting IL1RAPL1
Authors: Chatron Nicolas , Thibault Lucie , Lespinasse James , Labalme Audrey , Schluth-Bolard Caroline , Till Marianne , Edery Patrick , Touraine Renaud , des Portes Vincent , Lesca Gaetan , Sanlaville Damien
Published: September 2017

We report a 3-generation family in which 2 Xp copy number variations (CNVs) co-segregate. The proband presented with syndromic intellectual disability. The CNV had been revealed by conventional karyotyping, identifying a large Xp22 duplication causing an Xp functional disomy. Family studies found that this duplication was inherited from the proband's mother and was also present in one of his sisters. This sister had conventional karyotyping performed during pregnancy with a normal result. Postnatally, her child, the proband's nephew, presented with autism spectrum disorders. aCGH revealed a 339-kb IL1RAPL1 duplication. Overall, the proband, his mother, and one of his sisters all harboured both CNVs, while his other sister and the 2 sons of each sister only carried the IL1RAPL1 intragenic duplication. As seen in this family, we emphasise the importance of small CNV detection, the pathogenicity of IL1RAPL1 exonic duplications in male carriers, and the difficulties for genetic counselling with the risk of double diagnosis in a single patient.
Benefits of Curcumin Supplementation on Antioxidant Status in β-Thalassemia Major Patients: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Nasseri Esmat , Mohammadi Elahe , Tamaddoni Ahmad , Qujeq Durdi , Zayeri Farid , Zand Hamid
Published: September 2017

Background: β-Thalassemia major, the most common inherited anemia in the world, is associated with imbalance in the oxidant-antioxidant system. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of curcumin supplementation on markers of oxidative stress in patients with β-Thalassemia. Methods: This double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial was performed on 61 β-thalassemia major patients. Subjects in the curcumin group received two 500 mg curcumin capsules daily and patients in the placebo group took 2 placebo capsules daily for 12 weeks. Dietary intakes and biochemical parameters were assessed at the beginning and the end of intervention. Results: At the end of the study, serum malondialdehyde (MDA), total and direct bilirubin significantly decreased (p = 0.002, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively) and total antioxidant capacity significantly increased (p = 0.005) in the curcumin group. Based on the analysis of covariance, a significant reduction in MDA, total and direct bilirubin was also detected in the curcumin group when compared to the placebo group (p = 0.001, p = 0.039, and p = 0.013, respectively). Changes in hemoglobin, serum iron, ferritin, catalase, and vitamin E were not significant in any of the 2 groups. Conclusions: Curcumin supplementation in combination with deferoxamin improved the antioxidant status in β-thalassemia major patients. Curcumin may be useful for the relief of metabolic complications in these patients.
A Homozygous Missense Variant in INPP5E Associated with Joubert Syndrome and Related Disorders
Authors: Shetty Mitesh , Ramdas Nimmy , Sahni Shubhi , Mullapudi Nandita , Hegde Sridevi
Published: September 2017

Joubert syndrome and related disorders (JSRD; ORPHA 140874) is a complex set of neurodevelopmental disorders with multiple organ involvement. JSRD is a type of ciliopathy which is caused by the presence of defective primary cilia in an individual. JSRD is commonly inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, and more than 23 genes are known to be associated with JSRD. We report a novel homozygous mutation identified in the INPP5E gene, c.1303C>T, which leads to a change of an amino acid from arginine to tryptophan at residue 435 in the protein chain. In silico analysis indicates that p.Arg435Trp substitution affects the functionality of the protein product of the gene. Our result adds to the growing body of evidences that underlines the clinical utility of next-generation sequencing in the diagnosis of a genetic disorder when clinical features are inconclusive.
Lower Heart Rate Variability Is Associated with Lower Pulse Pressure Amplification: Role of Obesity
Authors: Di Daniele Nicola , Tesauro Manfredi , Mascali Alberto , Rovella Valentina , Scuteri Angelo
Published: September 2017

Background: Heart rate variability (HRV), pulse pressure amplification, and obesity represent risk factors for cardiovascular events. The aims of the present study are (1) to explore the impact of HRV on pulse pressure amplification and (2) to investigate whether the association between HRV and pulse pressure amplification differs in obese and lean subjects. Methods: A total of 342 patients (age 61 ± 11 years) were enrolled. HRV was analyzed concerning both the frequency and time domain as well as concerning the HRV triangular index. Pulse pressure amplification was estimated as the ratio between brachial and carotid pulse pressure, the latter measured with SphygmoCor. Results: Time domain HRV indices were directly correlated with pulse pressure amplification (the lower the HRV indices, the lower the pulse pressure amplification). This association was stronger in obese than in lean subjects after controlling for age and sex. Conclusion: Larger controlled studies are needed to provide a more detailed insight into the relation between HRV and pulse pressure amplification and to determine which pathways are differentially activated in lean and obese subjects.
Epstein-Barr Virus miR-BART6-3p Inhibits the RIG-I Pathway
Authors: Lu Yuanjun , Qin Zailong , Wang Jia , Zheng Xiang , Lu Jianhong , Zhang Xuemei , Wei Lingyu , Peng Qiu , Zheng Ying , Ou Chunlin , Ye Qiurong , Xiong Wei , Li Guiyuan , Fu Yuxin , Yan Qun , Ma Jian
Published: September 2017

Recognition of viral pathogen-associated molecular patterns by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) is the first step in the initiation of a host innate immune response. As a PRR, RIG-I detects either viral RNA or replication transcripts. Avoiding RIG-I recognition is a strategy employed by viruses for immune evasion. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infects the majority of the human population worldwide. During the latent infection period there are only a few EBV proteins expressed, whereas EBV-encoded microRNAs, such as BART microRNAs, are highly expressed. BART microRNAs regulate both EBV and the host's gene expression, modulating virus proliferation and the immune response. Here, through gene expression profiling, we found that EBV miR-BART6-3ps inhibited genes of RIG-I-like receptor signaling and the type I interferon (IFN) response. We demonstrated that miR-BART6-3p rather than other BARTs specifically suppressed RIG-I-like receptor signaling-mediated IFN-β production. RNA-seq was used to analyze the global transcriptome change upon EBV infection and miR-BART6-3p mimics transfection, which revealed that EBV infection-triggered immune response signaling can be repressed by miR-BART6-3p overexpression. Furthermore, miR-BART6-3p inhibited the EBV-triggered IFN-β response and facilitated EBV infection through targeting the 3′UTR of RIG-I mRNA. These findings provide new insights into the mechanism underlying the strategies employed by EBV to evade immune surveillance.
Development of a Thai Parkinson's Disease Screening Tool and the Prevalence of Parkinsonism and Parkinson's Disease, Based on a Community Survey in Bangkok
Authors: Muangpaisan Weerasak , Siritipakorn Pitiporn , Assantachai Prasert
Published: September 2017

Introduction: Few epidemiological data of parkinsonism and Parkinson's disease (PD) exist in Southeast Asia. We aimed to develop and validate a screening tool, and investigate the prevalence of parkinsonism and PD via a community survey. Methods: A PD-screening tool comprising 11 “yes/no” items was developed in a clinical setting and validated in the community. The prevalence of PD and parkinsonism was investigated in a survey that included PD screening tools, face-to-face interviews, and physical examinations. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed for a range of cutoff points to explore the screening tool's sensitivity and specificity. Results: Of 1,846 participants surveyed, the mean age was 64.4 ± 8.0 years. The age-standardized prevalence of parkinsonism was 1,954 per 100,000 people, and that of PD was 706. Of 36 parkinsonism cases, 13 were PD, 13 were vascular parkinsonism, 8 were drug-induced parkinsonism, and 2 were head-injury related. Three cases were previously diagnosed with PD. A cutoff score of 5 on the screening tool showed a sensitivity of 98%, a specificity of 94%, and positive and negative likelihood ratios of 16.33 and 0.02, respectively. The area under the curve was 0.985. Conclusions: The prevalence of parkinsonism and PD in Thailand is similar to that in Western countries but slightly higher than that for other Asian countries. Differing methodologies, diagnostic criteria, and case identification strategies may contribute to variations in the reported prevalence of PD. Widespread use of the Thai PD-screening tool should be implemented to facilitate early detection of new cases and, in turn, better healthcare.
Scaling Analysis of Temperature and Liquid Water Content in the Marine Boundary Layer Clouds during POST
Authors: Ma Yong-Feng , Malinowski Szymon P. , Karpińska Katarzyna , Gerber Hermann E. , Kumala Wojciech
Published: September 2017

The authors have analyzed the scaling behavior of marine boundary layer (MBL) clouds using high-resolution temperature (T) and liquid water content (LWC) fluctuations from aircraft measurements collected over the Pacific Ocean during the Physics of Stratocumulus Top (POST) research campaign in summer of 2008. As an extension of the past studies for scale-invariant properties of MBL clouds, the authors studied the variability of scaling exponents with height. The results showed that both LWC and T have two distinct scaling regimes: the first one displays scale invariance over a range from about 1–5 m to at least 7 km, and the second one goes from about 0.1–1 to 1–5 m. For the large-scale regime (r > 1–5 m), turbulence in MBL clouds is multifractal, while scale break and scaling exponents vary with height, most significantly in the cloud-top region. For example, LWC spectral exponent β increases from 1.42 at cloud base to 1.58 at cloud top, while scale break decreases from ~5 m at cloud base to 0.8 m at cloud top. The bifractal parameters (H1, C1) for LWC increase from (0.14, 0.02) at cloud base to (0.33, 0.1) at cloud top while maintaining a statistically significant linear relationship C1 ≈ 0.4H1 − 0.04 in MBL clouds. From near surface to cloud top, (H1, C1) for T also increase with height, but above cloud top H1 increases and C1 decreases with height. The results suggest the existence of three turbulence regimes: near the surface, in the middle of the boundary layer, and in the cloud-top region, which need to be distinguished.
On the Forcing of the Summertime Great Plains Low-Level Jet
Authors: Parish Thomas R.
Published: September 2017

The low-level jet (LLJ) is a ubiquitous feature of the lower atmosphere over the Great Plains during summer. The LLJ is a nocturnal phenomenon, developing during the 6–9-h period after sunset. Forcing of the LLJ has been debated for over 60 years, the focus being on two processes: decoupling of the residual layer from the surface owing to nighttime cooling and diurnal heating and cooling of the sloping Great Plains topography.

To examine characteristics and forcing mechanisms for the LLJ, composite grids were compiled from the North American Mesoscale Forecast System for the summertime months of June and July over a 5-yr period (2008–12). One composite set was assembled from well-developed LLJ episodes during which the maximum nocturnal jet magnitude at 0900 UTC over northwestern Oklahoma exceeded 20 m s−1. A second set consists of nonjet conditions for which the maximum nighttime wind magnitude in the lowest 3 km did not exceed 10 m s−1.

The intensity of the horizontal pressure gradient and hence background geostrophic flow at jet level was the dominant difference between composite cases. The horizontal pressure gradient forms in response to the thermal wind above jet level that results primarily from seasonal heating of the sloping Great Plains. Thermal wind forcing is thus the key link between the Great Plains and the high frequency of LLJ occurrence. The nocturnal wind maximum develops primarily because of the inertial oscillation of the ageostrophic wind occurring after decoupling of the lower atmosphere from the surface owing to radiational cooling in the early evening.
Role of Convective Precipitation in the Relationship between Subdaily Extreme Precipitation and Temperature
Authors: Park In-Hong , Min Seung-Ki
Published: September 2017

On a subdaily time scale, the intensities of extreme precipitation are observed to increase with temperature at a rate exceeding water vapor constraints determined by the Clausius–Clapeyron (C-C) relationship. This so-called super C-C scaling has been suggested to occur as a result of 1) the statistical effect that involves the transition of precipitation types from stratiform to convective events and 2) the physical effect by which the convective process itself can overcome the thermodynamic limitation. This study examines these two mechanisms for the super C-C relationship using in situ observations in South Korea for a recent 35-yr period, focusing on the role of convective rainfall. Scaling results show that hourly extreme precipitation undergoes a transition from a C-C rate to a super C-C rate at around 20°C, supporting the statistical effect. The transition temperature observed in South Korea is, however, much higher than in European regions (12°C), which seems to be due to the climatologically lower frequency of convective events in South Korea than in Europe. Nevertheless, the threshold fraction of convective precipitation when the scaling transition starts to occur is found to very similar between two regions, around 0.2, indicating the important role of convective events in shaping the scaling. On the other hand, convective extreme precipitation alone exhibits a super C-C scaling, suggesting that the physical effect is also at work in South Korea. Also, the scaling shows a robust peaklike shape with maximum precipitation intensity near 24°C, which is closely linked with moisture limitation at high temperature, supporting the previous findings.
Interannual Variability of the North American Cold Air Stream and Associated Synoptic Circulations
Authors: Kanno Yuki , Walsh John E. , Iwasaki Toshiki
Published: September 2017

In boreal winter, the cold air mass (CAM) flux of air with a potential temperature below 280 K forms climatological mean CAM streams in East Asia and North America (NA). This study diagnoses the interannual variability of the NA stream by an analysis of the CAM flux across 60°N between Greenland and the Rocky Mountains. The first empirical orthogonal function (EOF) represents the variations in intensity of the NA stream. When the first principal component (PC1) is highly positive, the central part of the NA stream is intensified, with cold anomalies east of the Rocky Mountains. At the same time, a stratospheric polar vortex tends to split or displace toward NA. PC1 is highly correlated with the tropical Northern Hemisphere pattern, implying that this pattern is associated with the intensity of the NA stream. The second EOF shows a longitudinal shift of the NA stream toward Greenland or the Rocky Mountains. A highly negative PC2 results in a cold anomaly from western Canada to the Midwestern United States and anomalous heavy snowfall in the northeastern United States. PC2 is positively correlated with the Arctic Oscillation, which suggests that the longitudinal position of the NA stream varies with the Arctic Oscillation. These results illustrate how the intensity and location of cold air outbreaks vary with large-scale modes of atmospheric variability, with corresponding implications for the predictability of winter severity in NA.
Salient Differences in Tropical Cyclone Activity over the Western North Pacific between 1998 and 2016
Authors: Zhan Ruifen , Wang Yuqing , Liu Qinyu
Published: September 2017

Previous studies have suggested that tropical cyclone (TC) seasons over the western North Pacific (WNP) in the decaying years of El Niño events are generally less active than normal. The two strongest El Niño events on record were 1997/98 and 2015/16, but TC activities over the WNP displayed a sharp contrast between the decaying years of the two events. In 1998, consistent with previous studies, the WNP witnessed an extremely quiet season with no TC genesis in the preseason (January–June) and with only 10 named TCs observed in the typhoon season (July–October), making 1998 the most inactive season in the basin on record. In 2016, no TC formed in the preseason, similar to 1998; however, the basin became remarkably active in the typhoon season with above-normal named TCs observed. Further analyses indicate that the absence of TCs in the preseason in both 1998 and 2016 and the less active typhoon season in 1998 were attributed to the strong western Pacific anomalous anticyclone associated with the super El Niño events. However, the pattern of sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTAs) in the Pacific in 2016 showed features distinct from that in 1998. During July–August, the extremely positive phase of the Pacific meridional mode (PMM) triggered an anomalous cyclonic circulation and negative vertical wind shear over the WNP, favorable for TC geneses, while during September–October, the combined effect of the equatorial western Pacific warming and the weak La Niña event enhanced TC geneses over the WNP.
Interannual Variations of the First Rainy Season Precipitation over South China
Authors: Gu Wei , Wang Lin , Hu Zeng-Zhen , Hu Kaiming , Li Yong
Published: September 2017

The first rainy season (FRS), also known as the presummer rainy season, is the first standing stage of the East Asian summer monsoon when over 40% of the annual precipitation is received over South China. Based on the start and end dates of the FRS defined by the China Meteorological Administration, this study investigates the interannual variations of the FRS precipitation over South China and its mechanism with daily mean data. The length and start/end date of the FRS vary year to year, and the average length of the FRS is 90 days, spanning from 6 April to 4 July. Composite analyses reveal that the years with abundant FRS precipitation over South China feature weakened anticyclonic wind shear over the Indochina Peninsula in the upper troposphere, southwestward shift of the western Pacific subtropical high, and anticyclonic wind anomalies over the South China Sea in the lower troposphere. The lower-tropospheric southwesterly wind anomalies are especially important because they help to enhance warm advection and water vapor transport toward South China, increase the lower tropospheric convective instability, and shape the pattern of the anomalous ascent over South China. It is further proposed that a local positive feedback between circulation and precipitation exists in this process. The variability of the FRS precipitation can be well explained by a zonal sea surface temperature (SST) dipole in the tropical Pacific and the associated Matsuno–Gill-type Rossby wave response over the western North Pacific. The interannual variability of both the SST dipole and the FRS precipitation over South China is weakened after the year 2000.
Impacts of Atmospheric Processes on ENSO Asymmetry: A Comparison between CESM1 and CCSM4
Authors: Zhang Tao , Shao Xiaolu , Li Shuanglin
Published: September 2017

An evaluation of El Niño–La Niña asymmetry is conducted in the two recent NCAR coupled models (CCSM4 and CESM1) sharing the same ocean component. Results show that two coupled models generally underestimate observed ENSO asymmetry, mainly owing to an overestimate of the cold SST anomaly during the La Niña phase. The weaker ENSO asymmetry corresponds to a cold bias in mean SST climatology that is more severe in CESM1 than in CCSM4, despite a better performance in simulating ENSO asymmetry in the former. Corresponding AMIP (CAM4 and CAM5) runs are examined to probe the origin of the weaker ENSO asymmetry in coupled models. The analysis reveals a stronger time mean zonal wind in AMIP models, favoring a cold bias in mean SST. The bias of the stronger mean wind, associated with changes in mean precipitation, is more significant in CAM5 than in CAM4. The simulated skewness of the interannual variability of zonal winds is weaker than observations but somewhat improved in CAM5 compared to CAM4, primarily resulting from a more westward shift of easterly wind anomalies tied to the displacement of precipitation anomalies during the cold phase. Wind-forced ocean GCM experiments confirm that the bias in AMIP model winds can weaken ENSO asymmetry, with the contribution from the wind interannual variability being larger than from the mean winds. This demonstrates that the bias in ENSO asymmetry in coupled models can be traced back to the bias in the stand-alone atmosphere models to a large extent. The results pinpoint a pathway to reduce the bias in ENSO asymmetry in coupled models.