bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FontCode
Authors: Xiao Chang , Zhang Cheng , Zheng Changxi
Published: March 2018

We introduce
FontCode
, an information embedding technique for text documents. Provided a text document with specific fonts, our method embeds user-specified information in the text by perturbing the glyphs of text characters while preserving the text content. We devise an algorithm to choose unobtrusive yet machine-recognizable glyph perturbations, leveraging a recently developed generative model that alters the glyphs of each character continuously on a font manifold. We then introduce an algorithm that embeds a user-provided message in the text document and produces an encoded document whose appearance is minimally perturbed from the original document. We also present a glyph recognition method that recovers the embedded information from an encoded document stored as a vector graphic or pixel image, or even on a printed paper. In addition, we introduce a new error-correction coding scheme that rectifies a certain number of recognition errors. Lastly, we demonstrate that our technique enables a wide array of applications, using it as a text document metadata holder, an unobtrusive optical barcode, a cryptographic message embedding scheme, and a text document signature.
Discrete Geodesic Nets for Modeling Developable Surfaces
Authors: Rabinovich Michael , Hoffmann Tim , Sorkine-Hornung Olga
Published: March 2018

We present a discrete theory for modeling developable surfaces as quadrilateral meshes satisfying simple angle constraints. The basis of our model is a lesser-known characterization of developable surfaces as manifolds that can be parameterized through orthogonal geodesics. Our model is simple and local, and, unlike in previous works, it does not directly encode the surface rulings. This allows us to model continuous deformations of discrete developable surfaces independently of their decomposition into torsal and planar patches or the surface topology. We prove and experimentally demonstrate strong ties to smooth developable surfaces, including a theorem stating that every sampling of the smooth counterpart satisfies our constraints up to second order. We further present an extension of our model that enables a local definition of discrete isometry. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our discrete model in a developable surface editing system, as well as computation of an isometric interpolation between isometric discrete developable shapes.
DroneTrack
Authors: Mao Wenguang , Qiu Lili
Published: March 2018

Excerpted from "Indoor Follow Me Drone," from MobiSys 2017, Proceedings of the 15th Annual ACM International Conference on Mobile Systems, Applications, and Services, with permission. https://dl.acm.org/citation.cfm?id=3081362 © ACM 2017.
BackDoor
Authors: Roy Nirupam , Hassanieh Haitham , Choudhury Romit Roy
Published: March 2018

Microphones are like human ears. If we play an audible sound, both humans and microphones will be able to hear it. We design sound that appears just as any other sound to microphones, but remains inaudible to humans. This sound can be regulated to carry data bits, thereby enabling an acoustic (but inaudible) communication channel to hundreds of smart devices that already have built-in microphones. Other applications include jamming spy microphones in the environment, live watermarking of music in a concert, and even threats like acoustic denial-of-service (DoS) attacks on phone calls or inaudible command attacks on voice-enabled devices.
Cryo-EM Studies of Pre-mRNA Splicing: From Sample Preparation to Model Visualization
Authors: Wilkinson Max E. , Lin Pei-Chun , Plaschka Clemens , Nagai Kiyoshi
Published: March 2018

The removal of noncoding introns from pre-messenger RNA (pre-mRNA) is an essential step in eukaryotic gene expression and is catalyzed by a dynamic multi-megadalton ribonucleoprotein complex called the spliceosome. The spliceosome assembles on pre-mRNA substrates by the stepwise addition of small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles and numerous protein factors. Extensive remodeling is required to form the RNA-based active site and to mediate the pre-mRNA branching and ligation reactions. In the past two years, cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of spliceosomes captured in different assembly and catalytic states have greatly advanced our understanding of its mechanism. This was made possible by long-standing efforts in the purification of spliceosome intermediates as well as recent developments in cryo-EM imaging and computational methodology. The resulting high-resolution densities allow for de novo model building in core regions of the complexes. In peripheral and less ordered regions, the combination of cross-linking, bioinformatics, biochemical, and genetic data is essential for accurate modeling. Here, we summarize these achievements and highlight the critical steps in obtaining near-atomic resolution structures of the spliceosome.
From a Single Child to Uniform Newborn Screening: My Lucky Life in Pediatric Medical Genetics
Authors: Howell R. Rodney
Published: March 2018

Mike, a memorable young patient with untreated phenylketonuria, as well as others affected by genetic disorders that could be treated if diagnosed in infancy, launched my six-decade career. This autobiographical article reflects on my childhood, early research, and professional experiences in pediatric genetics. My laboratory research focused on inborn errors of metabolism, including the glycogen storage diseases. My effort to organize newborn screening through the recommended uniform screening panel shaped and standardized newborn screening nationwide. Looking ahead, the expansion of whole-genome and whole-exome sequencing into newborn screening raises ethical and policy issues regarding informed consent procedures and the storage and use of residual blood spots.
The impact of short-chain fatty acids on GLP-1 and PYY secretion from the isolated perfused rat colon
Authors: Christiansen Charlotte Bayer , Gabe Maria Buur Nordskov , Svendsen Berit , Dragsted Lars Ove , Rosenkilde Mette Marie , Holst Jens Juul
Published: March 2018

The colonic epithelium harbors a large number of endocrine cells, but little is known about the endocrine functions of the colon. However, the high density of glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1)- and peptide-YY (PYY)-secreting L cells is of great interest because of the potential antidiabetic and antiobesity effects of GLP-1 and PYY. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by local bacterial fermentation are suggested to activate the colonic free fatty acid receptors FFAR2 (GPR43) and FFAR3 (GPR41), stimulating the colonic L cells. We used the isolated perfused rat colon as a model of colonic endocrine secretion and studied the effects of the predominant SCFAs formed: acetate, propionate, and butyrate. We show that luminal and especially vascular infusion of acetate and butyrate significantly increases colonic GLP-1 secretion, and to a minor extent also PYY secretion, but only after enhancement of intracellular cAMP. Propionate neither affected GLP-1 nor PYY secretion whether administered luminally or vascularly. A FFAR2- and FFAR3–specific agonist [( S)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)-3,3-dimethyl- N-(5-phenylthiazol-2-yl)butamide (CFMB)/ AR420626 ] had no effect on colonic GLP-1 output, and a FFAR3 antagonist ( AR399519 ) did not decrease the SCFA-induced GLP-1 response. However, the voltage-gated Ca2+-channel blocker nifedipine, the KATP-channel opener diazoxide, and the ATP synthesis inhibitor 2,4-dinitrophenol completely abolished the responses. FFAR2 receptor studies confirmed low-potent partial agonism of acetate, propionate, and butyrate, compared with CFMB, which is a full agonist with ~750-fold higher potency than the SCFAs. In conclusion, SCFAs may increase colonic GLP-1/PYY secretion, but FFAR2/FFAR3 do not seem to be involved. Rather, SCFAs are metabolized and appear to function as a colonocyte energy source.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY By the use of in situ isolated perfused rat colon we show that short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) primarily are used as a colonocyte energy source in the rat, subsequently triggering glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion independent of the free fatty acid receptors FFAR2 and FFAR3. Opposite many previous studies on SCFAs and FFAR2/FFAR3 and GLP-1 secretion, this experimental model allows investigation of the physiological interactions between luminal nutrients and secretion from cells whose function depend critically on their blood supply as well as nerve and paracrine interactions.
Seeing cilia: imaging modalities for ciliary motion and clinical connections
Authors: Peabody Jacelyn E. , Shei Ren-Jay , Bermingham Brent M. , Phillips Scott E. , Turner Brett , Rowe Steven M. , Solomon George M.
Published: March 2018

The respiratory tract is lined with multiciliated epithelial cells that function to move mucus and trapped particles via the mucociliary transport apparatus. Genetic and acquired ciliopathies result in diminished mucociliary clearance, contributing to disease pathogenesis. Recent innovations in imaging technology have advanced our understanding of ciliary motion in health and disease states. Application of imaging modalities including transmission electron microscopy, high-speed video microscopy, and micron-optical coherence tomography could improve diagnostics and be applied for precision medicine. In this review, we provide an overview of ciliary motion, imaging modalities, and ciliopathic diseases of the respiratory system including primary ciliary dyskinesia, cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Oxygen dependence of respiration in rat spinotrapezius muscle contracting at 0.5–8 twitches per second
Authors: Golub Aleksander S. , Dodhy Sami C. , Pittman Roland N.
Published: March 2018

The oxygen dependence of respiration was obtained in situ in microscopic regions of rat spinotrapezius muscle for different levels of metabolic activity produced by electrical stimulation at rates from 0.5 to 8 Hz. The rate of O2consumption (V̇o2) was measured with phosphorescence quenching microscopy (PQM) as the rate of O2disappearance in a muscle with rapid flow arrest. The phosphorescent oxygen probe was loaded into the interstitial space of the muscle to give O2tension (Po2) in the interstitium. A set of sigmoid curves relating the Po2dependence of V̇o2was obtained with a Po2-dependent region below a characteristic Po2(~30 mmHg) and a Po2-independent region above this Po2. The V̇o2(Po2) plots were fit by the Hill equation containing O2demand (rest to 8 Hz: 216 ± 26 to 636 ± 77 nl O2/cm3s) and the Po2value corresponding to O2demand/2 (rest to 8 Hz: 22 ± 4 to 11 ± 1 mmHg). The initial Po2and V̇o2pairs of values measured at the moment of flow arrest formed a straight line, determining the rate of oxygen supply. This line had a negative slope, equal to the oxygen conductance for the O2supply chain. For each level of tissue blood flow the set of possible values of Po2and V̇o2consists of the intersection points between this O2supply line and the set of V̇o2curves. An electrical analogy for the intraorgan O2supply and consumption is an inverting transistor amplifier, which allows the use of graphic analysis methods for prediction of the behavior of the oxygen processing system in organs.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The sigmoidal shape of curves describing oxygen dependence of muscle respiration varies from basal to maximal workload and characterizes the oxidative metabolism of muscle. The rate of O2supply depends on extracellular O2tension and is determined by the overall oxygen conductance in the muscle. The dynamics of oxygen consumption is determined by the supply line that intersects the oxygen demand curves. An electrical analogy for the oxygen supply/consumption system is an inverting transistor amplifier.
Efficient Self-Assembly of mPEG End-Capped Porous Silica as a Redox-Sensitive Nanocarrier for Controlled Doxorubicin Delivery
Authors: Nguyen Anh Khoa , Nguyen Thi Hiep , Bao Bui Quoc , Bach Long Giang , Nguyen Dai Hai
Published: March 2018

Porous nanosilica (PNS) has been regarded as a promising candidate for controlled delivery of anticancer drugs. Unmodified PNS-based nanocarriers, however, showed a burst release of encapsulated drugs, which may limit their clinical uses. In this report, PNS was surface conjugated with adamantylamine (ADA) via disulfide bridges (-SS-), PNS-SS-ADA, which was further modified with cyclodextrin-poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether conjugate (CD-mPEG) to form a core@shell structure PNS-SS-ADA@CD-mPEG for redox triggered delivery of doxorubicin (DOX), DOX/PNS-SS-ADA@CD-mPEG. The prepared PNS-SS-ADA@CD-mPEG nanoparticles were spherical in shape with an average diameter of 55.5 ± 3.05 nm, a little larger than their parentally PNS nanocarriers, at 49.6 ± 2.56 nm. In addition, these nanoparticles possessed high drug loading capacity, at 79.2 ± 3.2%, for controlled release. The release of DOX from DOX/PNS-SS-ADA@CD-mPEG nanoparticles was controlled and prolonged up to 120 h in PBS medium (pH 7.4), compared to less than 40 h under reducing condition of 5 mM DTT. Notably, the PNS-SS-ADA@CD-mPEG was a biocompatible nanocarrier, and the toxicity of DOX was dramatically reduced after loading drugs into the porous core. This redox-sensitive PNS-SS-ADA@CD-mPEG nanoparticle could be considered a potential candidate with high drug loading capacity and a lower risk of systemic toxicity.
Childhood Adversities and Physical and Mental Health Outcomes in Adults Living with HIV: Findings from the Ontario HIV Treatment Network Cohort Study
Authors: Bekele Tsegaye , Collins Evan J. , Maunder Robert G. , Gardner Sandra , Rueda Sergio , Globerman Jason , Le Thao Lan , Hunter Jon , Benoit Anita , Rourke Sean B. , OHTN Cohort Study Team The
Published: March 2018

We sought to estimate the prevalence of childhood adversity and examine its relationship with health outcomes among people living with HIV. Study participants included 1409 adults living with HIV and receiving care in Toronto, Canada. Data on childhood adversity, health behaviors, HIV outcome measures, depression, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) were collected through face-to-face interviews and medical records. Statistical analyses included multivariable linear and logistic regression modeling. The prevalence of any childhood adversity was 71% (individual types ranged from 11% to 44%) and higher prevalence was associated with younger age, Indigenous or African/Caribbean/Black ethnicity, lower socioeconomic status, and higher rates of cigarette smoking and nonmedicinal drug use. Greater number of childhood adversities was associated with greater odds of depression and decreasing mental HRQOL. HIV care providers need to screen for childhood adversities and address childhood trauma within the context of HIV care.
Composition of High Molecular Weight Glutenin Subunits in Polish Common Wheat Cultivars (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Filip Ewa
Published: March 2018

The main goal of our study was to present research data on genes encoding high molecular weight glutenin subunits (HMW-GS) associated with high flour bread-making quality. This is the leading research objective in our institute in the area of wheat gluten in cultivars that have not been studied so far in that respect, but which can potentially be a valuable source of new information. Identification and characterization of high molecular weight glutenin subunits (HMW-GS) were performed using sequencing and SDS-PAGE and STS-PCR methods. Genes located in the vicinity of the Glu-1 locus have been identified and characterized in 28 Polish cultivars of Triticum aestivum. The results were then analyzed using the following computer programs: Finch TV, BLAST, MEGA 4, Molecular Imager® Gel Doc™ XR, and Quantity One software (Bio-Rad). Three alleles (a, b, c) have been identified in the Glu-A1 locus, 6 alleles (a, b, c, d, e, k) in the Glu-B1 locus, and 2 alleles (a, d) in Glu-D1 using the SDS-PAGE method. The amplification of specific HMW-GS sequences generated one product of 450 bp in 1Dx5 in 13 cultivars of old wheat and of 435 bp in 1Dx2 in 15 cultivars. The amplification products of primers for 1Dy10 and 1Dy12 genes were 422 bp and 552 bp in size, respectively.
Transient Air-Water Flow and Air Demand following an Opening Outlet Gate
Authors: Yang James , Liu Ting , Dai Wenhong , Teng Penghua
Published: March 2018

In Sweden, the dam-safety guidelines call for an overhaul of many existing bottom outlets. During the opening of an outlet gate, understanding the transient air-water flow is essential for its safe operation, especially under submerged tailwater conditions. Three-dimensional CFD simulations are undertaken to examine air-water flow behaviors at both free and submerged outflows. The gate, hoisted by wire ropes and powered by AC, opens at a constant speed. A mesh is adapted to follow the gate movement. At the free outflow, the CFD simulations and model tests agree well in terms of outlet discharge capacity. Larger air vents lead to more air supply; the increment becomes, however, limited if the vent area is larger than 10 m2. At the submerged outflow, a hydraulic jump builds up in the conduit when the gate reaches approximately 45% of its full opening. The discharge is affected by the tailwater and slightly by the flow with the hydraulic jump. The flow features strong turbulent mixing of air and water, with build-up and break-up of air pockets and collisions of defragmented water bodies. The air demand rate is several times as much as required by steady-state hydraulic jump with free surface.
Spatial Downscaling of TRMM Precipitation Data Using an Optimal Subset Regression Model with NDVI and Terrain Factors in the Yarlung Zangbo River Basin, China
Authors: Liu Jinping , Zhang Wanchang , Nie Ning
Published: March 2018

High accuracy, high spatial resolution precipitation data is important for understanding basin-scale hydrology and the spatiotemporal distributions of regional precipitation. The objective of this study was to develop a reliable statistical downscaling algorithm to produce high quality, high spatial resolution precipitation products from Tropical Rainfall Monitoring Mission (TRMM) 3B43 data over the Yarlung Zangbo River Basin using an optimal subset regression (OSR) model combined with multiple topographical factors, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and observational data from rain gauge stations. After downscaling, the bias between TRMM 3B43 and rain gauge data decreased considerably from 0.397 to 0.109, the root-mean-square error decreased from 235.16 to 124.60 mm, and the r2 increased from 0.54 to 0.61, indicating significant improvement in the spatial resolution and accuracy of the TRMM 3B43 data. Moreover, the spatial patterns of both precipitation rates of change and their corresponding p value statistics were consistent between the downscaled results and the original TRMM 3B43 during the 2001–2014 period, which verifies that the downscaling method performed well in the Yarlung Zangbo River Basin. Its high performance in downscaling precipitation was also proven by comparing with other models. All of these findings indicate that the proposed approach greatly improved the quality and spatial resolution of TRMM 3B43 rainfall products in the Yarlung Zangbo River Basin, for which rain gauge data is limited. The potential of the post-real-time Integrated Multi-satellite Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement (IMERG) downscaled precipitation product was also demonstrated in this study.
Synthesis of Hydrophilic Sulfur‐Containing Adsorbents for Noble Metals Having Thiocarbonyl Group Based on a Methacrylate Bearing Dithiocarbonate Moieties
Authors: Kinemuchi Haruki , Ochiai Bungo
Published: March 2018

Novel hydrophilic sulfur‐containing adsorbents for noble metals were prepared by the radical terpolymerization of a methacrylate bearing dithiocarbonate moieties (DTCMMA), hydrophilic monomers, and a cross‐linker. The resulting adsorbents efficiently and selectively adsorbed noble metals (Au, Ag, and Pd) from various multielement aqueous solutions at room temperature owing to the thiocarbonyl group having high affinity toward noble metals. The metal adsorption by the adsorbents was proceeded by simple mixing followed by filtration. The noble metal selectivity of the adsorbent obtained from DTCMMA and N‐isopropylacrylamide was higher than that of the adsorbent obtained from DTCMMA and N,N‐dimethylacrylamide due to the lower nonspecific adsorption.
Acute Consumption of Bordo Grape Juice and Wine Improves Serum Antioxidant Status in Healthy Individuals and Inhibits Reactive Oxygen Species Production in Human Neuron-Like Cells
Authors: Copetti Cristiane , Franco Fernanda Wouters , Machado Eduarda da Rosa , Soquetta Marcela Bromberger , Quatrin Andréia , Ramos Vitor de Miranda , Moreira José Cláudio Fonseca , Emanuelli Tatiana , Sautter Cláudia Kaehler , Penna Neidi Garcia
Published: March 2018

Few studies investigated the biological effects of American grape cultivars. We investigated the metabolic response after acute consumption of grape juice or wine from Bordo grapes (Vitis labrusca) in a placebo-controlled crossover study with fifteen healthy volunteers. Blood samples were collected 1 hour after the intake of 100 mL of water, juice, or wine to measure TBARS, ABTS, FRAP, glucose, and uric acid levels. To evaluate differences in cellular response, intracellular reactive species production (DCFH-DA) and metabolic mitochondrial viability (MTT) were assessed after exposure of human neuron-like cells (SH-SY5Y) to juice or wine. Glycemia was reduced after juice or wine consumption, whereas blood levels of uric acid were reduced after juice consumption but increased after wine consumption. Juice and wine consumption reduced plasma lipid peroxidation and increased plasma antioxidant capacity (ABTS and FRAP assays). Furthermore, juice inhibited H2O2-induced intracellular production of reactive species (RS) and increased the viability of SH-SY5Y cells. In contrast, wine (dealcoholized) exhibited a per se effect by inducing the production of RS and reducing cell viability. These results indicate a positive impact of acute consumption of Bordo juice and wine on human oxidative status, whereas only juice had protective effects against oxidative stress-induced cytotoxicity.
Effect of Alternative Wood Species and First Thinning Wood on Oriented Strand Board Performance
Authors: Salles Ferro Fabiane , Magalhães Souza Amós , de Araujo Isabella Imakawa , Van Der Neut de Almeida Milena Maria , Christoforo André Luis , Rocco Lahr Francisco Antonio
Published: March 2018

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using and influence of alternative wood species such as Cambará, Paricá, Pinus, and wood from first thinning operations on oriented strand board (OSB) physical and mechanical properties. Besides that, an alternative resin, castor oil‐based polyurethane, was used to bond the particles, due to the better environmental performance when compared to other resins commonly used worldwide in OSB production. Physical properties such as the moisture content, thickness swelling, and water absorption, both after 2 and 24 hours of water immersion, and mechanical properties such as the modulus of elasticity and resistance in static bending, in major and minor axes, and internal bonding were investigated. All tests were performed according to European code EN 300:2006. Results showed the influence of wood species on physical and mechanical properties. Panels made with higher density woods such as Cambará presented better physical performance, while those made with lower density woods such as Pinus presented better mechanical properties. Besides that, strand particle geometry was also influenced on all physical and mechanical properties investigated. Therefore, the feasibility of using alternative species and wood from first thinning and with castor oil‐based polyurethane resin in OSB production was verified.
On Regularity of a Weak Solution to the Navier–Stokes Equations with the Generalized Navier Slip Boundary Conditions
Authors: Neustupa Jiří , Penel Patrick
Published: March 2018

The paper shows that the regularity up to the boundary of a weak solution v of the Navier–Stokes equation with generalized Navier’s slip boundary conditions follows from certain rate of integrability of at least one of the functions ζ1, (ζ2)+ (the positive part of ζ2), and ζ3, where ζ1≤ζ2≤ζ3 are the eigenvalues of the rate of deformation tensor D(v). A regularity criterion in terms of the principal invariants of tensor D(v) is also formulated.
Magnetic Phase Separation and Magnetic Moment Alignment in Ordered Alloys FE65Al35−xMx (Mx = Ga, B; x = 0; 5 at.%)
Authors: Voronina E. V. , Arzhnikov A. K. , Chumakov A. I. , Chistyakova N. I. , Ivanova A. G. , Pyataev A. V. , Korolev A. V.
Published: March 2018

The structure and the magnetic state of ordered Fe65Al35-xMx (Mx = Ga, B; x = 0; 5 at.%) alloys are investigated using X-ray diffraction, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and magnetic measurements. The behavior of the magnetic characteristics and Mössbauer spectra of the binary alloy Fe65Al35 and the ternary alloy with gallium addition Fe65Al30Ga5 is explained in terms of the phase separation into two magnetic phases: a ferromagnetic one and a spin density wave. It is shown that the addition of boron to the initial binary alloy Fe65Al35 results in the ferromagnetic behavior of the ternary alloy.
Extrinsic Least Squares Regression with Closed-Form Solution on Product Grassmann Manifold for Video-Based Recognition
Authors: Wang Yuping , Wang Lichun , Kong Dehui , Yin Baocai
Published: March 2018

Least squares regression is a fundamental tool in statistical analysis and is more effective than some complicated models with small number of training samples. Representing multidimensional data with product Grassmann manifold has recently led to notable results in various visual recognition tasks. This paper proposes extrinsic least squares regression with Projection Metric on product Grassmann manifold by embedding Grassmann manifold into the space of symmetric matrices via an isometric mapping. The proposed regression has closed-form solution which is more accurate compared with numerical solution of previous least squares regression using geodesic distance. Experiments on several recognition tasks show that the proposed method achieves considerable accuracy in comparison with some state-of-the-art methods.
Sequential Extractions and Toxicity Potential of Trace Metals Absorbed into Airborne Particles in an Urban Atmosphere of Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Olumayede Emmanuel Gbenga , Ediagbonya Thompson Faraday
Published: March 2018

The paper investigates the hypothesis that biotoxicities of trace metals depend not only on the concentration as expressed by the total amount, but also on their geochemical fractions and bioavailability. Airborne particles were collected using SKC Air Check XR 5000 high volume Sampler at a human breathing height of 1.5–2.0 meters, during the dry season months from November 2014 to March 2015 at different locations in Akure (7°10′N and 5°15′E). The geochemical-based sequential extractions were performed on the particles using a series of increasingly stringent solutions selected to extract metals (Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb, Zn, and Mn) into four operational geochemical phases—exchangeable, reducible, organic, and residual—and then quantified using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The results showed metals concentration of order Pb > Cr > Cd > Zn > Ni > Cu > Mn. However, most metals in the samples exist in nonmobile fractions: exchangeable (6.43–16.2%), reducible (32.58–47.39%), organic (4.73–9.88%), and residual (18.28–27.53%). The pollution indices show ingestion as the leading route of metal exposure, with noncarcinogenic (HQ) and cancer risk (HI) for humans in the area being higher than 1.0 × 10−4, indicating a health threat.
Projection Mapping User Interface for Disabled People
Authors: Gelšvartas Julius , Simutis Rimvydas , Maskeliūnas Rytis
Published: March 2018

Difficulty in communicating is one of the key challenges for people suffering from severe motor and speech disabilities. Often such person can communicate and interact with the environment only using assistive technologies. This paper presents a multifunctional user interface designed to improve communication efficiency and person independence. The main component of this interface is a projection mapping technique used to highlight objects in the environment. Projection mapping makes it possible to create a natural augmented reality information presentation method. The user interface combines a depth sensor and a projector to create camera-projector system. We provide a detailed description of camera-projector system calibration procedure. The described system performs tabletop object detection and automatic projection mapping. Multiple user input modalities have been integrated into the multifunctional user interface. Such system can be adapted to the needs of people with various disabilities.
A Framework of Secured Embedding Scheme Using Vector Discrete Wavelet Transformation and Lagrange Interpolation
Authors: Subramanian Maheswari , Korah Reeba
Published: March 2018

Information hiding techniques have a significant role in recent application areas. Steganography is the embedding of information within an innocent cover work in a way which cannot be detected by any person without accessing the steganographic key. The proposed work uses a steganographic scheme for useful information with the help of human skin tone regions as cover image. The proposed algorithm has undergone Lagrange interpolation encryption for enhancement of the security of the hidden information. First, the skin tone regions are identified by using YCbCr color space which can be used as a cover image. Image pixels which belong to the skin regions are used to carry more secret bits, and the secret information is hidden in both horizontal and vertical sequences of the skin areas of the cover image. The secret information will hide behind the human skin regions rather than other objects in the same image because the skin pixels have high intensity value. The performance of embedding is done and is quite invisible by the vector discrete wavelet transformation (VDWT) technique. A new Lagrange interpolation-based encryption method is introduced to achieve high security of the hidden information with higher payload and better visual quality.
Synthesis and Characterization of Cobalt(III) and Copper(II) Complexes of 2-((E)-(6-Fluorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-ylimino) methyl)-4-chlorophenol: DNA Binding and Nuclease Studies—SOD and Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Savithri K. , Kumar B. C. Vasantha , Vivek H. K. , Revanasiddappa H. D.
Published: March 2018

A bidentate (N- and O-) imine-based ligand (L1) and its metal complexes of types [CuII(L1)2] (C1), [CuII(L1)(Phen)] (C2), [CoIII(L1)2] (C3), and [CoIII(L1)(Phen)] (C4) (L1 = 2-((E)-(6-fluorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-ylimino)methyl)-4-chlorophenol and phen = 1,10-phenanthroline) were synthesized as potential chemotherapeutic drug candidates. The prepared complexes were structurally characterized by spectral techniques (NMR, FT-IR, LC-MS, EPR, and electronic absorption), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTA), magnetic moment, and CHNO elemental analysis. Spectroscopic studies suggested the distorted octahedral structure for all complexes. In vitro bioassay studies include binding and nuclease activities of the ligand and its complexes with target calf thymus- (CT-) DNA were carried out by employing UV-Vis, fluorescence spectroscopy, viscosity, and gel electrophoresis techniques. The extent of binding propensity was determined quantitatively by Kb and Ksv values which revealed a higher binding affinity for C2 and C4 as compared to C1 and C3. In addition, the scavenging superoxide anion free radical (O∙-2) activity of metal complexes was determined by nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) light reduction assay. Molecular docking studies with DNA and SOD enzyme were also carried out on these compounds. The antimicrobial study has shown that all the compounds are potential antibacterial agents against Gram-negative bacterial strains and better antifungal agents with respect to standard drugs used.
Microstructural and Electrical Properties of Sn‐Modified BaTiO3 Lead‐Free Ceramics by Two‐Step Sintering Method
Authors: Kayaphan Wichita , Bomlai Pornsuda
Published: March 2018

Ba(Ti0.92Sn0.08)O3 lead‐free ceramics were prepared using a two‐step sintering (TSS) technique. Varying the first sintering temperature T1 (1400 and 1500°C) and the dwell time t1 (0, 15, and 30 min), we obtained dense ceramics which were then soaked at a constant temperature of 1000°C (T2) for 6 h (t2). The structural and electrical properties were investigated. XRD results indicated that all the ceramics showed a pure perovskite phase with tetragonal symmetry. Density and grain size increased with higher T1 temperatures and increased t1 dwell times. Enhanced electrical properties were achieved by sintering at the optimized T1 sintering temperature and t1 dwelling time. At the lower T1 sintering temperature of 1400°C, the dielectric and piezoelectric properties and the Curie temperature of the ceramics were improved significantly by increasing t1 dwell time. Further, increasing the sintering temperature T1 to 1500°C, excellent properties were obtained at t1 = 15 min which then deteriorated when t1 was increased to 30 min. The electrical properties of the sample sintered under the T1/t1/T2/t2 condition of “1500/15/1000/6” showed the best values. For this sample the piezoelectric coefficient (d33), dielectric permittivity (εr), loss factor (tanδ), and Curie temperature (TC) were 490 pC/N, 4385, 0.0272, and 48°C, respectively.
History of Suicide Attempt Is Associated with Reduced Medial Prefrontal Cortex Activity during Emotional Decision-Making among Men with Schizophrenia: An Exploratory fMRI Study
Authors: Potvin Stéphane , Tikàsz Andràs , Richard-Devantoy Stéphane , Lungu Ovidiu , Dumais Alexandre
Published: March 2018

Despite the high prevalence of suicidal ideas/attempts in schizophrenia, only a handful of neuroimaging studies have examined the neurobiological differences associated with suicide risk in this population. The main objective of the current exploratory study is to examine the neurofunctional correlates associated with a history of suicide attempt in schizophrenia, using a risky decision-making task, in order to show alterations in brain reward regions in this population. Thirty-two male outpatients with schizophrenia were recruited: 13 patients with (SCZ + S) and 19 without a history of suicidal attempt (SCZ − S). Twenty-one healthy men with no history of mental disorders or suicidal attempt/idea were also recruited. Participants were scanned using fMRI while performing the Balloon Analogue Risk Task. A rapid event-related fMRI paradigm was used, separating decision and outcome events, and the explosion probabilities were included as parametric modulators. The most important finding of this study is that SCZ + S patients had reduced activations of the medial prefrontal cortex during the success outcome event (with parametric modulation), relative to both SCZ − S patients and controls, as illustrated by a spatial conjunction analysis. These exploratory results suggest that a history of suicidal attempt in schizophrenia is associated with blunted brain reward activity during emotional decision-making.
HER2 Deregulation in Lung Cancer: Right Time to Adopt an Orphan?
Authors: Cappuzzo Federico , Landi Lorenza
Published: March 2018

HER2-deregulated non–small cell lung cancer is an orphan of any specific therapy, probably because of lack of both accurate patient selection and effective drugs. Recent evidence suggests that osimertinib could be effective in HER2-amplified or mutated lung cancer as a single agent or in combination. Clin Cancer Res; 24(11); 2470–2. ©2018 AACR.

See related article by Liu et al., p. 2594
Targeted Doxorubicin-Loaded Bacterially Derived Nano-Cells for the Treatment of Neuroblastoma
Authors: Sagnella Sharon M. , Trieu Jennifer , Brahmbhatt Himanshu , MacDiarmid Jennifer A. , MacMillan Alex , Whan Renee M. , Fife Christopher M. , McCarroll Joshua A. , Gifford Andrew J. , Ziegler David S. , Kavallaris Maria
Published: March 2018

Advanced stage neuroblastoma is an aggressive disease with limited treatment options for patients with drug-resistant tumors. Targeted delivery of chemotherapy for pediatric cancers offers promise to improve treatment efficacy and reduce toxicity associated with systemic chemotherapy. The EnGeneIC Dream Vector (EDVTM) is a nanocell, which can package chemotherapeutic drugs and target tumors via attachment of bispecific proteins to the surface of the nanocell. Phase I trials in adults with refractory tumors have shown an acceptable safety profile. Herein we investigated the activity of EGFR-targeted and doxorubicin-loaded EDVTM (EGFREDVTMDox) for the treatment of neuroblastoma. Two independent neuroblastoma cell lines with variable expression of EGFR protein [SK-N-BE(2), high; SH-SY-5Y, low] were used. EGFREDVTMDox induced apoptosis in these cells compared to control, doxorubicin, or non-doxorubicin loaded EGFREDVTM. In three-dimensional tumor spheroids, imaging and fluorescence life-time microscopy revealed that EGFREDVTMDox had a marked enhancement of doxorubicin penetration compared to doxorubicin alone, and improved penetration compared to non-EGFR-targeted EDVTMDox, with enhanced spheroid penetration leading to increased apoptosis. In two independent orthotopic human neuroblastoma xenograft models, short-term studies (28 days) of tumor-bearing mice led to a significant decrease in tumor size in EGFREDVTMDox-treated animals compared to control, doxorubicin, or non-EGFR EDVTMDox. There was increased TUNEL staining of tumors at day 28 compared to control, doxorubicin, or non-EGFR EDVTMDox. Moreover, overall survival was increased in neuroblastoma mice treated with EGFREDVTMDox (P < 0007) compared to control. Drug-loaded bispecific-antibody targeted EDVsTM offer a highly promising approach for the treatment of aggressive pediatric malignancies such as neuroblastoma. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(5); 1012–23. ©2018 AACR.
Designing Late-Stage Randomized Clinical Trials with Cancer Immunotherapy: Can We Make It Simpler?
Authors: Chen Tai-Tsang
Published: March 2018

The knowledge we have accumulated over the past few years in the field of cancer immunotherapy has prompted the research community to challenge the status quo of trial design and endpoint selection across all drug development phases. For the design of randomized phase III studies using overall survival (OS) as the primary endpoint in particular, the paradigm has shifted from the conventional approach based on a proportional hazards model to those that account for the unique survival kinetics observed in immuno-oncology trials, such as long-term survival and delayed clinical effect. These new approaches usually require complex modeling or simulations, as well as assumptions about the length of delay in clinical effect and the long-term survival rate, making the process of implementing these new designs challenging. Here, a late-stage randomized clinical trial design is proposed based on milestone survival to simplify the process of sample size determination while keeping OS as the primary endpoint. The new design also allows assessment in milestone survival and is unaffected by the uncertainty of the survival kinetics demonstrated by cancer immunotherapies. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(3); 250–4. ©2018 AACR.
Age Invariance of the Cannabis Abuse Screening Test in a Probabilistic Sample of Cannabis Users
Authors: Legleye Stéphane , Rouquette Alexandra
Published: March 2018

The Cannabis abuse screening test (CAST) is a short test used for screening those with problematic cannabis use. Recently, its invariance toward age was tested in an Israeli sample of cannabis users, but this study had some sample and methodological limitations: it was conducted in a volunteer sample aged 18–40 and considered the CAST items as continuous variables, although they are based on 5-point Likert scales. We thus tested the CAST invariance toward age (15–24, 25–34, and 35–64 years old) using a French probabilistic sample of 1,351 past-year cannabis users aged 15–64 and using appropriate methods for categorical items and survey weights. Factors retained (non-recreational use and problems) were the same as those mentioned in previous studies. Scalar invariance held for the “problems” factor but only partial scalar invariance was supported for the “non-recreational use” factor. Caution is thus needed when the CAST score is compared across age groups.
Potentially Inappropriate Prescribing in Older Adults with Hypertension or Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension in a Primary Care Setting in Bahrain
Authors: Al Khaja Khalid A.J. , Ahmed Isa Husain , Veeramuthu Sindhan , Sequeira Reginald P.
Published: March 2018

Objectives: The aims of this study were to evaluate: (1) the prevalence and types of potentially inappropriate prescribing in older adults with hypertension or diabetes mellitus and hypertension, and (2) whether or not differences in the training of primary care physicians were associated with potentially inappropriate prescribing. Materials and Methods: Primary care prescriptions issued by family physicians and general practitioners were audited using Screening Tool of Older Persons’ Prescriptions criteria (version 1), with 18 out of 65 applicable criteria. Descriptive statistics were used to test the difference between proportions, and two-tailed t test was used for continuous variables. Results: A total of 2,090 outpatient prescriptions were written during the study period; of these, 712 (34.1%) were potentially inappropriate. The mean number of drugs per patient was 6.03 (±2.5). Of the 712 prescriptions, 543 (76.3%) were used for the treatment of acute medical illnesses. The most common examples of potentially inappropriate prescribing were: orphenadrine (n = 174; 8.33%), long-term nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for > 3 months (n = 150; 7.18%), proton pump inhibitors for > 8 weeks (n = 135; 6.46%), antihypertensive therapy duplication (n = 59; 2.82%), long-acting glyburide (n = 48; 2.29%), and chlordiazepoxide for > 1 month (n = 44; 2.11%). Family physicians showed a greater tendency toward potentially inappropriate prescribing compared to general practitioners, but the difference was nonsignificant (n = 514 [34.75%] vs. n = 162 [31.3%]; p = 0.16). Conclusions: The prevalence of potentially inappropriate prescribing (i.e., 34.1%) was within the spectrum reported worldwide and unrelated to the training backgrounds of physicians. Most of the identified potentially inappropriate prescribing (76.3%) in older adults was associated with medications for acute medical illnesses and hence inappropriate polypharmacy should be discouraged.
Inhibition of Local Macrophage Growth Ameliorates Focal Inflammation and Suppresses Atherosclerosis
Authors: Yamada Sarie , Senokuchi Takafumi , Matsumura Takeshi , Morita Yutaro , Ishii Norio , Fukuda Kazuki , Murakami-Nishida Saiko , Nishida Shuhei , Kawasaki Shuji , Motoshima Hiroyuki , Furukawa Noboru , Komohara Yoshihiro , Fujiwara Yukio , Koga Tomoaki , Yamagata Kazuya , Takeya Motohiro , Araki Eiichi
Published: March 2018

Objective—

Macrophages play a central role in various stages of atherosclerotic plaque formation and progression. The local macrophages reportedly proliferate during atherosclerosis, but the pathophysiological significance of macrophage proliferation in this context remains unclear. Here, we investigated the involvement of local macrophage proliferation during atherosclerosis formation and progression using transgenic mice, in which macrophage proliferation was specifically suppressed.

Approach and Results—

Inhibition of macrophage proliferation was achieved by inducing the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1B, also known as p27
kip
, under the regulation of a scavenger receptor promoter/enhancer. The macrophage-specific human p27
kip
Tg mice were subsequently crossed with apolipoprotein E–deficient mice for the atherosclerotic plaque study. Results showed that a reduced number of local macrophages resulted in marked suppression of atherosclerotic plaque formation and inflammatory response in the plaque. Moreover, fewer local macrophages in macrophage-specific human p27
kip
Tg mice helped stabilize the plaque, as evidenced by a reduced necrotic core area, increased collagenous extracellular matrix, and thickened fibrous cap.

Conclusions—

These results provide direct evidence of the involvement of local macrophage proliferation in formation and progression of atherosclerotic plaques and plaque stability. Thus, control of macrophage proliferation might represent a therapeutic target for treating atherosclerotic diseases.
Role of Sympathetic Nerves and Adipocyte Catecholamine Uptake in the Vasorelaxant Function of Perivascular Adipose Tissue
Authors: Saxton Sophie N. , Ryding Katie E. , Aldous Robert G. , Withers Sarah B. , Ohanian Jacqueline , Heagerty Anthony M.
Published: March 2018

Objective—

Healthy perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) exerts an anticontractile effect on resistance arteries which is vital in regulating arterial tone. Activation of β
3
-adrenoceptors by sympathetic nerve–derived NA (noradrenaline) may be implicated in this effect and may stimulate the release of the vasodilator adiponectin from adipocytes. Understanding the mechanisms responsible is vital for determining how PVAT may modify vascular resistance in vivo.

Approach and Results—

Electrical field stimulation profiles of healthy C57BL/6J mouse mesenteric resistance arteries were characterized using wire myography. During electrical field stimulation, PVAT elicits a reproducible anticontractile effect, which is endothelium independent. To demonstrate the release of an anticontractile factor, the solution surrounding stimulated exogenous PVAT was transferred to a PVAT-denuded vessel. Post-transfer contractility was significantly reduced confirming that stimulated PVAT releases a transferable anticontractile factor. Sympathetic denervation of PVAT using tetrodotoxin or 6-hydroxydopamine completely abolished the anticontractile effect. β
3
-adrenoceptor antagonist SR59203A reduced the anticontractile effect, although the PVAT remained overall anticontractile. When the antagonist was used in combination with an OCT3 (organic cation transporter 3) inhibitor, corticosterone, the anticontractile effect was completely abolished. Application of an adiponectin receptor-1 blocking peptide significantly reduced the anticontractile effect in +PVAT arteries. When used in combination with the β
3
-adrenoceptor antagonist, there was no further reduction. In adiponectin knockout mice, the anticontractile effect is absent.

Conclusions—

The roles of PVAT are 2-fold. First, sympathetic stimulation in PVAT triggers the release of adiponectin via β
3
-adrenoceptor activation. Second, PVAT acts as a reservoir for NA, preventing it from reaching the vessel and causing contraction.
The curious case of Hemidactylus gujaratensis (Squamata: Gekkonidae)
Authors: LAJMI APARNA , DATTA-ROY ANIRUDDHA , VYAS RAJU , AGARWAL ISHAN , KARANTH PRAVEEN
Published: March 2018

Hemidactylus Oken, 1817 is one of the most speciose genera of the family Gekkonidae with more than 140 described species (Uetz et al. 2016). While this genus naturally occurs across the tropics and subtropics, a substantial part of its distribution also results from human-mediated dispersal. Carranza & Arnold (2006) retrieved five broad clades in a global phylogeny of Hemidactylus, one of which has species distributed in tropical Asia. Subsequent work by Bauer et al. (2010) and Bansal & Karanth (2010) revealed that the species from tropical Asia fell into two deeply divergent and potentially non-sister sub-clades—one comprising a large radiation confined to peninsular India and Sri Lanka (the Indian radiation, IR), and the other comprising species largely distributed in Southeast (SE) Asia.