bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of prostaglandin E2 receptor 3 in the eyelid epidermis of patients with Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis
Authors: Mieno Hiroki , Ueta Mayumi , Yamada Keiko , Yamanaka Yukito , Nakayama Tomomichi , Watanabe Akihide , Kinoshita Shigeru , Sotozono Chie
Published: April 2019

Background/aims

In a previous genome-wide association study of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) patients we reported the association between SJS/TEN and the prostaglandin E receptor 3 (PTGER3) gene, and that its protein PGE2 receptor 3 (EP3) was markedly downregulated in the conjunctival epithelium of SJS/TEN patients. Here we examined EP3 expression of the eyelid epidermis in SJS/TEN patients with severe ocular complications and investigated the function of EP3.

Methods

For the immunohistochemical study, we obtained eyelid samples from five SJS/TEN patients and five patients without SJS/TEN (control subjects) who were undergoing surgery to treat trichiasis, and investigated the expression of EP3 protein in the epidermis of those samples. To investigate the EP3 function in the human epidermal keratinocytes, we performed ELISA and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, since it is reported that PGE2 suppresses cytokine production via EP3 in human conjunctival epithelium.

Results

The results of the immunohistochemical study revealed that EP3 expression in the eyelid epidermis of the SJS/TEN patients was the same as that in the controls. PGE2 and a selective EP3 agonist suppressed cytokine production and expression induced by polyinosine-polycytidylic acid stimulation, such as chemokine ligand 5 and chemokine motif ligand 10.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that in chronic-phase SJS/TEN, EP3 protein was expressed in the eyelid epidermis and was not downregulated, unlike in conjunctival epithelium, and that PGE2 could suppress cytokine production via EP3 in human epidermal keratinocytes. Thus, EP3 expression in the epidermis might contribute to a silencing of skin inflammation in chronic-phase SJS/TEN.
Anatomical and functional changes in neovascular AMD in remission: comparison of fibrocellular and fibrovascular phenotypes
Authors: Querques Lea , Parravano Mariacristina , Borrelli Enrico , Chiaravalloti Adele , Tedeschi Massimiliano , Sacconi Riccardo , Zucchiatti Ilaria , Bandello Francesco , Querques Giuseppe
Published: April 2019

Purpose

To investigate the anatomical changes and the macular function in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) eyes, according to the recognition of either fibrocellular or fibrovascular phenotype.

Methods

We enrolled eyes with previously treated neovascular AMD in remission (no subretinal haemorrhage, sign of fluid in or under the retina and no treatment for at least 6 months). Subjects underwent multimodal imaging assessment and were tested for macular sensitivity using microperimetry. The study cohort was divided according to the presence of fibrosis on multicolour (MC) images, yielding two distinct phenotypic subgroups: (1) fibrocellular group and (2) fibrovascular group.

Results

Nineteen eyes were classified as fibrocellular on MC images, while 22 eyes as fibrovascular. Mean±SD age was 73.9±11.0 years in the fibrocellular group and 75.9±7.1 years in the fibrovascular group (p=0.221). Best-corrected visual acuity was 0.7±0.5 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (LogMAR) in the fibrocellular group and 0.3±0.2 LogMAR in the fibrovascular group (p=0.003). On the optical coherence tomography and fundus autofluorescence evaluation, 17/19 eyes with the fibrocellular phenotype and 8/22 eyes with the fibrovascular phenotype displayed the presence of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) atrophy (p=0.001). The perfusion density within the neovascular lesion was 28.9%±9.9% in the fibrocellular group and 44.2%±5.9 % in the fibrovascular group (p<0.0001).

Conclusion

Neovascular AMD eyes in remission and with evidence of fibrocellular scar are characterised by RPE atrophy and reduced perfusion, which are associated with a higher degree of functional impairment. These findings suggest that maturation of vessels in fibrosis might be a better target in neovascular AMD treatments rather than their abolishment.
Selection for glyphosate resistance in Conyza spp. occurring in the railway network of southern Spain
Authors: Amaro-Blanco Ignacio , Osuna María D. , Romano Yolanda , Roldán-Gómez Rafael , Palma-Bautista Candelario , Portugal João , De Prado Rafael
Published: April 2019

Conyza spp. are broadleaf weeds that occur in many crops but are also common in non-crop systems such as roadsides and railways. Conyza have selected for glyphosate resistance along railway tracks in southern Spain due to the misuse of this herbicide and the high seed dispersal rate of these species. Twenty-three samples of the genus Conyza (11 Conyza canadensis and 12 Conyza bonariensis) were collected from the margins of railways in different routes of the Andalusia railway network running adjacent to nearby crop fields. The glyphosate resistance level of Conyza populations was evaluated through GR50 (herbicide rate causing 50% growth reduction) and resistance factor (RF) values in every population collected. The highest GR50 were 1851.2 g a.e. ha−1 (RF = 52.53) in C. canadensis (Malaga–Cordoba route) and 1972.4 g a.e. ha−1 (RF = 35.20) in C. bonariensis (Seville–Cordoba route), and the lowest were 46.9 g a.e. ha−1 (RF = 1.33) in C. canadensis (Seville–Cordoba route) and 23.2 g a.e. ha−1 (RF = 0.41) in C. bonariensis (Seville–Cordoba route). The results showed that, among all the C. canadensis populations collected, 18.2% were glyphosate-resistant (RF > 10), 45.5% showed a tendency to develop resistance (RF = 2.5–5), and 36.4% were susceptible (RF < 2.5). Of the 25% of C. bonariensis populations that had resistance to glyphosate, 16.7% had moderate resistance (RF = 5–10) and 58.3% were susceptible. This study found that there are already glyphosate-resistant Conyza spp. along the railway network in southern Spain. This could lead to possible seed exchange between the railway and adjacent places. Therefore, it is vital to consider the railway network when planning control measures against resistance.
Fertigation of wheat and canola in southern Alberta
Authors: Smith Elwin G. , Le Roy Danny G. , Donkersgoed Daniel , Pauly Doon , McKenzie Ross H. , Bremer Eric
Published: April 2019

An irrigation study in southern Alberta compared spring-banded nitrogen (N) to spring-banded N plus fertigation at three plant growth stages for spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and canola (Brassica napus L.). Yield and quality impacts were quantified when N fertigation was applied to (i) wheat at the early tillering, flag leaf, and anthesis stages and (ii) canola at the four-leaf rosette, bolting, and early flowering stages. For both crops, fertigation could replace some spring-banded N without an effect on yield. However, the results revealed that for canola grown with a large amount of N, applying it all in the spring often generated higher yields than if an equivalent amount of N was delivered at later stages by fertigation. Canola oil concentration declined marginally (about 1%) from no applied N to the high rate of applied N. The application of more than 60 kg N ha−1 and delayed application each increased wheat protein content. Comparing revenues to costs, fertigation did not improve profit margins for canola growers. When growers applied 90 or 120 kg N ha−1 in the spring, fertigation was financially counter-productive. In contrast, the main benefit to wheat growers from fertigation was higher grain protein, especially with N applied at later growth stages. When protein premiums increase during the growing season, fertigation would facilitate growers to obtain higher net returns than they would otherwise.
LSU rDNA D5 region: the DNA barcode for molecular classification and identification ofDemodex
Authors: Hu Li , Zhao Yae , Yang Yuanjun , Niu Dongling , Yang Rui
Published: April 2019

Whether ribosomal genes can be used as DNA barcodes for molecular identification of Demodex (Acariformes: Demodicidae) is unclear. To examine this, Demodex folliculorum, D. brevis, D. canis, and D. caprae were collected for DNA extraction, rDNA fragments amplification, sequencing, and analysis. The V2 and V4 regions of SSU rDNA; D5, D6, and D8 regions of LSU rDNA; and ITS region were obtained from the four morphospecies. BLAST analysis showed that the obtained sequences matched those of Demodex or Aplonobia (Acariformes: Tetranychidae) in Raphignathae. Phylogenetic trees derived from V2, V4, D5, D6, and D8 regions, but not from ITS region, showed that the four species of Demodex clustered independently. Sequence divergence analysis further demonstrated that D5, D6, and D8 regions had obvious barcoding gap between intraspecific and interspecific divergences, with the gap of D5 (16.91%) larger than that of D6 (11.82%) and D8 (4.66%). The V2 and V4 regions did not have a barcoding gap, as the intraspecific and interspecific divergences partially overlapped. For the ITS region, intraspecific and interspecific divergences completely overlapped. These results suggest that the D5, D6, and D8 regions of LSU rDNA, especially D5, are suitable DNA barcodes for Demodex.
Evidence of the true Higgs boson HT at the LHC Run 2
Authors: Cea Paolo
Published: April 2019

The aim of this paper is to compare the recent LHC data at [Formula: see text] =13 TeV with our previous theoretical proposal that the true Higgs boson HT should be a broad heavy resonance with mass around 750 GeV. We focus on the so-called golden channel HT[Formula: see text]ZZ where the pair of Z bosons decay leptonically to [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] being either an electron or a muon. We use the data collected by the ATLAS and CMS collaborations at [Formula: see text] = 13 TeV with an integrated luminosity of 36.1 and 77.4 fb[Formula: see text] respectively. We find that the experimental data from both the LHC collaborations do display in the golden channel a rather broad resonance structure around 700 GeV with a sizeable statistical significance. Our theoretical expectations seem to be in fair good agreement with the experimental observations. Combining the data from both the ATLAS and CMS collaborations we obtain an evidence of the heavy Higgs boson in this channel with an estimated statistical significance of more than five standard deviations.
Low-cycle fatigue characteristics of SNCM 420H steel used to fabricate ships’ engines
Authors: Jeong Il Heon , Park Yeong Min , Bae Mun Ki , Kim Chi Hwan , Kim Tae Gyu
Published: April 2019

Sulzer-type engines are widely used in ships given their excellent fuel-saving, low-noise, and low-vibration properties. Here, we evaluated the low-cycle fatigue (LCF) properties of SNCM 420H steel after heat-tempering. LCF was studied at both [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], at strains of 0.8, 0.9, 1.2 and 1.5%. We used a triangular waveform for LCF testing to find fracture. The fatigue life of SNCM 420H at [Formula: see text] was about 60% less than that at [Formula: see text].
Effect of Ar-plasma treatment of ITO layer on resistive memory properties of a Ti/ITO point-contact structure
Authors: Liu Chih-Yi , Chih Wan-We , Weng Chao-Kai , Tien Wei-Chen , Ye Chang-Sin
Published: April 2019

A Ti/ITO structure was used as a point-contact resistive random access memory to simplify the procedures for conventional metal/insulator/metal structures. After the forming process, a [Formula: see text] interface was formed to fabricate a [Formula: see text] structure. The [Formula: see text] structure can be reversibly switched between a high-resistance state and a low-resistance state by using dc voltages at different polarities. The resistive switching was determined by the formation and rupture of oxygen-vacancy filaments. However, the high-forming current resulted in circuit design complexity and reliability concerns. An Ar-plasma treatment was adopted to modify the ITO surface. The Ar-plasma treatment lowered the forming current and improved memory reliability. The Ar-treated sample exhibited an endurance of more than 800 cycles through dc operation and a retention time longer than [Formula: see text] at [Formula: see text], making it suitable for nonvolatile memory applications.
Relative humidity sensing properties of indium nitride compound with oxygen doping on silicon and AAO substrates
Authors: Yang Chih Chin , Liu Ting Hao , Chang Shun Hsyung
Published: April 2019

The research used a DC sputtering system to grow indium nitride compound doped oxygen sensing film, which could be applied in the fabrication of relative humidity sensor. In this study, the design of two specific substrates, including silicon substrate and anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) substrate, were of some uses for relative humidity sensor fabrication to enhance the sensitivity. Besides, the influence of different substrates on responsivity was also explored to verify the sensing performances of indium nitride compound doped oxygen element in relative humidity sensor. The resistance response of InN:O sensing device using silicon substrate was better than that using AAO substrate. The RH adsorption and desorption time of InN:O sensing device using silicon substrate were 94 s and 35 s, respectively. The capacitance response of InN:O sensing device using AAO substrate was better than that using silicon substrate. The RH adsorption and desorption times of InN:O sensing device using AAO substrate were 289 s and 286 s respectively.
A sequential symbolic active network analysis technique using nullor elements
Authors: Sujito  , Tran Huu-Duy , Lin Yueh-Ling , Wang Hung-Yu
Published: April 2019

A sequential method of analysis of nullor-based active network is presented. The symbolic circuit analysis can be performed easily with the knowledge of properties of circuit elements including nullor elements. The practical circuit examples are given to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approach.
Node localization method for massive sensor networks based on clustering particle swarm optimization in cloud computing environment
Authors: Pan Li
Published: April 2019

In order to reduce the positioning error of wireless sensor network nodes and deal with the positioning of a large number of sensor network nodes, a mass sensor node positioning method based on particle swarm optimization (SNPSO) is proposed. The node location error of node distance correction value is corrected by SNPSO algorithm, and the sensing data is encoded by the index of cloud computing resources. The dynamic target strategy (DTS) algorithm is used to solve the strict deadline constraints. The algorithm focuses on optimizing execution time to meet deadline constraints, and once feasible solutions are obtained, it focuses on optimizing execution costs within deadline constraints. The performance of the algorithm is simulated and analyzed on the platform of MATLAB 2016. Compared with the sensor positioning method, SNPSO improves the positioning accuracy of mass sensor nodes. The simulation results verify the validity of SNPSO. Compared with the improved quantum genetic algorithm (IQGA) under different scale data scheduling and different deadlines constraints, the proposed algorithm can improve the positioning accuracy of mass sensor nodes. The proposed algorithm can find the optimal solution of cloud computing resource scheduling with lower execution cost under strict deadline constraints, and can more easily meet the needs of massive sensor network node location data processing.
Explicit Haar–Schauder multiwavelet filters and algorithms. Part II: Relative entropy-based estimation for optimal modeling of biomedical signals
Authors: Zemni Makerem , Jallouli Malika , Mabrouk Anouar Ben , Mahjoub Mohamed Ali
Published: April 2019

Biomedical signal/image processing and analysis are always fascinating tasks in scientific researches, both theoretical and practical. One of the powerful tools in such topics is wavelet theory which has been proved to be challenging since its discovery. One of the best measures of the optimality of reconstruction of signals/images is the well-known Shannon’s entropy. In wavelet theory, this is very well known and researchers are familiar with it. In the present work, a step forward is proposed based on more general wavelet tools. New approach is proposed for the reconstruction of signals/images provided with multiwavelets Shannon-type entropy to evaluate the order/disorder of the reconstructed signals/images. Efficiency and accuracy of the approach is confirmed by a simulation study on several models such as ECG, EEG and DNA/Proteins’ signals.
SUPPLIER CONTRIBUTION TO BUYER INNOVATIVENESS: THE INFLUENCE OF CUSTOMER ATTRACTIVENESS AND STRATEGIC FIT
Authors: STEENSTRA NICO D. A. , GELDERMAN CEES J. , SCHIJNS JOS M. C. , SEMEIJN JANJAAP
Published: April 2019

Buying companies increasingly need suppliers that significantly contributes to their innovation and capability resources. Customer attractiveness and the strategic fit with a supplier are likely to play an important role in new product development projects. However, no research has addressed and simultaneously investigated the interplay of strategic fit, customer attractiveness, and supplier’s contribution to buyer’s innovativeness. This study fills these gaps by carrying out a quantitative survey study among 81 members of the branch organization for the Dutch metal industry. The findings largely confirm the positive relations between the core concepts of this study. The results suggest that purchasing professionals should invest in customer attractiveness, rather than forcing business partners into coercive supplier development programs.
THE IMPACT OF ORGANISATIONAL SLACK ON INNOVATIVE WORK BEHAVIOUR: HOW DO TOP MANAGERS AND EMPLOYEES DIFFER?
Authors: HÜGEL SUSANNE , KREUTZER MARKUS
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we advance our understanding of the relationship between slack and innovation in two ways. We distinguish between different slack types on the organisational level, and hypothesise and empirically test how they influence innovative work behaviour (IWB) of both employees and top managers on the individual level. Applying a multigroup analysis in PLS-SEM, we test our model with a sample of 403 individuals, 155 top managers and 248 employees, from the German real estate industry. We find support for our central argument that the influence of organisational slack on individuals’ IWB differs according to the type of slack and the organisational role of the individual.
An outreach program with hands-on, physiology-based exercises generates questions about STEM career expectations
Authors: Clarke Martina A. , Sharma Neeru M. , Schiller Alicia M.
Published: April 2019

Scientific advocacy and outreach programs are encouraged to increase public understanding of scientific knowledge and generate interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers. However, evaluation of these events’ effectiveness is difficult and somewhat rare. This study’s purpose was to better understand how effective an established physiology-based outreach program was in generating interest in STEM careers, while simultaneously providing information that can be used to increase the effectiveness of future events. We partnered with a private school located in Omaha, Nebraska, where 64–80 students participated in 3 h of physiology-based activities presented by volunteers from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. The event included a brief presentation of the eye, sensory, heart, and lung systems, followed by hands-on demonstrations and activities. Each session concluded with 15 min of questions and answers (Q&A), where students were encouraged to engage the volunteers in inquiries about what they just learned, career-related questions, or any topic of their choosing. Each Q&A session was audio recorded and evaluated using thematic analysis to identify patterns in the Q&A data. Two major themes of questions were identified: 1) scientific content (animal circulatory systems and how organs are affected by disease or stimulus); and 2) career-related content, including typical day-to-day activities of a scientist and the volunteers’ satisfaction with a scientific career. We conclude that hands-on physiology-based learning opportunities are effective in generating short-term interest in STEM content and careers. The results of this study will also facilitate informed modification of event content to better suit student’s interests.
What determines the physiology that students learn?
Authors: Macknight A. D. C.
Published: April 2019

Modern technologies enable us to engage students in learning in innovative ways. This article discusses ideas about how we can use these technologies to provide efficient, effective, everlasting, and exciting learning—the 4 E’s of tomorrow’s education.
Pedagogical training profile of basic health sciences faculty in biomedical and related fields at Brazilian public and private higher education institutions
Authors: de Oliveira Gislaine Alves , Ferreira Maria Beatriz Cardoso , Nunes Luciana Neves , Marques Ribeiro Maria Flavia
Published: April 2019

Historically, Brazilian higher education teachers’ pedagogical training has not been a concern. Even today, a graduate degree is the main requirement to be a faculty member. However, a set of competencies is necessary to teach: pedagogical competency, political competency, and knowledge of specific content. Most graduate training covers only knowledge of specific content. Therefore, this work aimed to outline the profile of basic health sciences faculty members teaching in biomedical and related fields regarding their undergraduate and graduate training, as well as the initial and continued pedagogical training in Brazilian public and private higher education institutions (HEIs). An electronic questionnaire was sent to these professionals, and a total of 763 responses were analyzed (66.4% from public and 33.6% from private HEIs). Compared with private HEI faculty, faculty from public HEIs were more experienced in teaching, and more time had passed since they finished their graduate training. On the other hand, faculty from private HEIs had a more intense undergraduate teaching workload than faculty from public HEIs. Additionally, faculty from private HEIs attended more extensive and more frequent pedagogical training activities (PTAs). Both groups expressed that activities closely related to their classroom practice and recognition for good pedagogical performance were incentives for their participation in PTAs. In conclusion, differences between the faculty from public and private HEIs may be due to the characteristics of HEIs themselves. Hypothetically, private HEIs focus on teaching, which may explain why faculty from these institutions seek improvement in this area, whereas public HEIs focus on research.
A Combined Prediction Model for Subgrade Settlement Based on Improved Set Pair Analysis
Authors: Li Yafeng , Leng Wuming , Nie Rusong , Mei Huihao , Zhou Siwei , Dong Junli
Published: April 2019

Prediction of subgrade settlement is a complex problem involving various uncertainty factors. To overcome the defects and limitations of the single prediction model, a combined prediction model based on the improved set pair analysis was proposed to take into account the uncertainty and certainty of the single prediction model and make the combined prediction based on the certainty degree, and the criterion of set pair relationship was optimized. In the model, the set pair was first constructed to express the relationship between predicted and measured values. Then the risk of the set pair relationship identification was expressed based on the Bayesian decision theory, and the optimal criterion of set pair relationship was obtained by the adaptive search algorithm. Next, the relationship between the prediction model and the measured data was analyzed to get the certainty degree, and the weight coefficient was obtained according to the certainty degree. Finally the combination of single prediction models was carried out. A case study and comparison with other methods were conducted to confirm the reliability and validity of the proposed model. The result shows that this model fully considers the uncertainty and certainty of the single prediction model and also extends the method of determining the criterion of set pair relationship, which provides ideas for other combined prediction and evaluation problems.
Atractylenolide III Attenuates Muscle Wasting in Chronic Kidney Disease via the Oxidative Stress-Mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway
Authors: Wang Mingqing , Hu Rong , Wang Yanjing , Liu Lingyu , You Haiyan , Zhang Jiaxing , Wu Xiaohui , Pei Tingting , Wang Fujing , Lu Lu , Xiao Wei , Wei Lianbo
Published: April 2019

Oxidative stress contributes to muscle wasting in advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Atractylenolide III (ATL-III), the major active constituent of Atractylodes rhizome, has been previously reported to function as an antioxidant. This study is aimed at investigating whether ATL-III has protective effects against CKD-induced muscle wasting by alleviating oxidative stress. The results showed that the levels of serum creatinine (SCr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and urinary protein significantly decreased in the ATL-III treatment group compared with the 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6 Nx) model group but were higher than those in the sham operation group. Skeletal muscle weight was increased, while inflammation was alleviated in the ATL-III administration group compared with the 5/6 Nx model group. ATL-III-treated rats also showed reduced dilation of the mitochondria, increased CAT, GSH-Px, and SOD activity, and decreased levels of MDA both in skeletal muscles and serum compared with 5/6 Nx model rats, suggesting that ATL-III alleviated mitochondrial damage and increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes, thus reducing the production of ROS. Furthermore, accumulated autophagosomes (APs) and autolysosomes (ALs) were reduced in the gastrocnemius (Gastroc) muscles of ATL-III-treated rats under transmission electron microscopy (TEM) together with the downregulation of LC3-II and upregulation of p62 according to Western blotting. This evidence indicated that ATL-III improved skeletal muscle atrophy and alleviated oxidative stress and autophagy in CKD rats. Furthermore, ATL-III could also increase the protein levels of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and p-mTOR in skeletal muscles in CKD rats. To further reveal the relevant mechanism, the oxidative stress-mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway was assessed, which showed that a reduced expression of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and p-mTOR in C2C12 myoblast atrophy induced by TNF-αcould be upregulated by ATL-III; however, after the overexpression of Nox2 to increase ROS production, the attenuated effect was reversed. Our findings indicated that ATL-III is a potentially protective drug against muscle wasting via activation of the oxidative stress-mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.
The NADPH Oxidase Nox4 Controls Macrophage Polarization in an NFκB-Dependent Manner
Authors: Helfinger V. , Palfi K. , Weigert A. , Schröder K.
Published: April 2019

The family of NADPH oxidases represents an important source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within the cell. Nox4 is a special member of this family as it constitutively produces H2O2 and its loss promotes inflammation. A major cellular component of inflammation is the macrophage population, which can be divided into several subpopulations depending on their phenotype, with proinflammatory M(LPS+IFNγ) and wound-healing M(IL4+IL13) macrophages being extremes of the functional spectrum. Whether Nox4 is expressed in macrophages is discussed controversially. Here, we show that macrophages besides a high level of Nox2 indeed express Nox4. As Nox4 contributes to differentiation of many cells, we hypothesize that Nox4 plays a role in determining the polarization and the phenotype of macrophages. In bone marrow-derived monocytes, ex vivo treatment with LPS/IFNγ or IL4/IL13 results in polarization of the cells into M(LPS+IFNγ) or M(IL4+IL13) macrophages, respectively. In this ex vivo setting, Nox4 deficiency reduces M(IL4+IL13) polarization and forces M(LPS+IFNγ). Nox4-/- M(LPS+IFNγ)-polarized macrophages express more Nox2 and produce more superoxide anions than wild type M(LPS+IFNγ)-polarized macrophages. Mechanistically, Nox4 deficiency reduces STAT6 activation and promotes NFκB activity, with the latter being responsible for the higher level of Nox2 in Nox4-deficient M(LPS+IFNγ)-polarized macrophages. According to those findings, in vivo, in a murine inflammation-driven fibrosarcoma model, Nox4 deficiency forces the expression of proinflammatory genes and cytokines, accompanied by an increase in the number of proinflammatory Ly6C+ macrophages in the tumors. Collectively, the data obtained in this study suggest an anti-inflammatory role for Nox4 in macrophages. Nox4 deficiency results in less M(IL4+IL13) polarization and suppression of NFκB activity in monocytes.
An Application of Fuzzy Integrated Model in Green Supplier Selection
Authors: Ulutaş Alptekin , Topal Ayşe , Bakhat Rim
Published: April 2019

“Sustainability” term has not only become increasingly important globally for individual companies, but also become important for whole supply chains. The selection of supplier is a significant decision for the sustainability of supply chains. Literature review revealed that supplier selection is made traditionally based on economic attributes which are insufficient for sustainability of supply chains as sustainability requires taking economic, environmental, and social issues into account. For this purpose, this paper proposes determining the green supplier selection attributes and then developing a methodology for assessment and ranking of green suppliers based on determined attributes. The first contribution of this study is to propose a novel method, which is FROV (fuzzy extension of range of value) to literature. The latter is to utilize fuzzy extension of preference selection index (FPSI) to identify the weights of attributes. The third is to develop a novel fuzzy multiattribute decision‐making model consisting of FPSI and FROV to determine the best supplier for a Turkish textile company.
Gut Microbiota in Alzheimer’s Disease, Depression, and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: The Role of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Luca Maria , Di Mauro Maurizio , Di Mauro Marco , Luca Antonina
Published: April 2019

Gut microbiota consists of over 100 trillion microorganisms including at least 1000 different species of bacteria and is crucially involved in physiological and pathophysiological processes occurring in the host. An imbalanced gastrointestinal ecosystem (dysbiosis) seems to be a contributor to the development and maintenance of several diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Interestingly, the three disorders are frequently associated as demonstrated by the high comorbidity rates. In this review, we introduce gut microbiota and its role in both normal and pathological processes; then, we discuss the importance of the gut-brain axis as well as the role of oxidative stress and inflammation as mediators of the pathological processes in which dysbiosis is involved. Specific sections pertain the role of the altered gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The therapeutic implications of microbiota manipulation are briefly discussed. Finally, a conclusion comments on the possible role of dysbiosis as a common pathogenetic contributor (via oxidative stress and inflammation) shared by the three disorders.
Wind Load and Structural Parameters Estimation from Incomplete Measurements
Authors: Xue Huili , Liu Hongjun , Peng Huayi , Luo Yin , Lin Kun
Published: April 2019

The extended minimum variance unbiased estimation approach can be used for joint state/parameter/input estimation based on the measured structural responses. However, it is necessary to measure the structural displacement and acceleration responses at each story for the simultaneous identification of structural parameters and unknown wind load. A novel method of identifying structural state, parameters, and unknown wind load from incomplete measurements is proposed. The estimation is performed in a modal extended minimum variance unbiased manner, based on incomplete measurements of wind‐induced structural displacement and acceleration responses. The feasibility and accuracy of the proposed method are numerically validated by identifying the wind load and structural parameters on a ten‐story shear building structure with incomplete measurements. The effects of crucial factors, including sampling duration and the number of measurements, are discussed. Furthermore, the practical application of the developed inverse method is evaluated based on wind tunnel testing results of a 234 m tall building structure. The results indicate that the structural state, parameters, and unknown wind load can be identified accurately using the proposed approach.
Pasteurized Orange Juice Rich in Carotenoids ProtectsCaenorhabditis elegansagainst Oxidative Stress andβ-Amyloid Toxicity through Direct and Indirect Mechanisms
Authors: de Oliveira Caland Ricardo Basílio , Cadavid Cesar Orlando Muñoz , Carmona Lourdes , Peña Leandro , de Paula Oliveira Riva
Published: April 2019

‘Cara Cara’ is a red orange (Citrus sinensis(L.) Osbeck) variety originally from Venezuela characterized by a significantly higher and diversified carotenoid content including higher-concentration lycopene,all-E-β-carotene, phytoene, and other carotenoids when compared with the carotenoid profile of its isogenic blond counterpart ‘Bahia’, also known as Washington navel. The exceptionally high carotenoid content of ‘Cara Cara’ is of special interest due to its neuroprotective potential. Here, we used the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegansto analyze the antioxidant effect and the protection againstβ-amyloid-induced toxicity of pasteurized orange juice (POJ) obtained from ‘Cara Cara’ and compare to that from ‘Bahia’. POJ treatment reduced the endogenous ROS levels and increased the worm’s survival rate under normal and oxidative stress conditions. POJ treatment also upregulated the expression of antioxidant (gcs-1,gst-4, andsod-3) and chaperonin (hsp-16.2) genes. Remarkably, ROS reduction, gene expression activation, oxidative stress resistance, and longevity extension were significantly increased in the animals treated with ‘Cara Cara’ orange juice compared to animals treated with ‘Bahia’ orange juice. Furthermore, the body paralysis induced byβ-amyloid peptide was delayed by both POJs but the mean paralysis time for the worms treated with ‘Cara Cara’ orange juice was significantly higher compared to ‘Bahia’ orange juice. Our mechanistic studies indicated that POJ-reduced ROS levels are primarily a result of the direct scavenging action of natural compounds available in the orange juice. Moreover, POJ-inducedgst-4::GFPexpression and –increased stress resistance was dependent of the SKN-1/Nrf2 transcription factor. Finally, the transcription factors SKN-1, DAF-16, and HSF-1 were required for the POJ-mediated protective effect against Aβtoxicity. Collectively, these results suggest that orange juice from ‘Cara Cara’ induced a stronger response against oxidative stress andβ-amyloid toxicity compared to orange juice from ‘Bahia’ possibly due to its higher carotenoid content.
Homogeneous Symmetrical Threshold Model with Nonconformity: Independence versus Anticonformity
Authors: Nowak Bartłomiej , Sznajd-Weron Katarzyna
Published: April 2019

We study two variants of the modified Watts threshold model with a noise (with nonconformity, in the terminology of social psychology) on a complete graph. Within the first version, a noise is introduced via so‐called independence, whereas in the second version anticonformity plays the role of a noise, which destroys the order. The modified Watts threshold model, studied here, is homogeneous and possesses an up‐down symmetry, which makes it similar to other binary opinion models with a single‐flip dynamics, such as the majority‐vote and the q‐voter models. Because within the majority‐vote model with independence only continuous phase transitions are observed, whereas within the q‐voter model with independence also discontinuous phase transitions are possible, we ask the question about the factor, which could be responsible for discontinuity of the order parameter. We investigate the model via the mean‐field approach, which gives the exact result in the case of a complete graph, as well as via Monte Carlo simulations. Additionally, we provide a heuristic reasoning, which explains observed phenomena. We show that indeed if the threshold r = 0.5, which corresponds to the majority‐vote model, an order‐disorder transition is continuous. Moreover, results obtained for both versions of the model (one with independence and the second one with anticonformity) give the same results, only rescaled by the factor of 2. However, for r > 0.5 the jump of the order parameter and the hysteresis is observed for the model with independence, and both versions of the model give qualitatively different results.
Characterization of Rice Husk Fiber-Reinforced Polyvinyl Chloride Composites under Accelerated Simulated Soil Conditions
Authors: Wang Lei , He Chunxia
Published: April 2019

To study the effect of accelerated simulated soil aging on the physical, mechanical, and thermal behavior of rice husk fiber-reinforced polyvinyl chloride composites. The worst soil aging condition was determined using the orthogonal design method, and the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of the composites were analyzed over 21 d. The results indicate that the worst soil-accelerated aging condition was as follows: soil temperature of 65°C, soil pH of 2.5, soil moisture content of 45%, and soil porosity (ratio of thick to thin) of 3 : 7. An extended aging time tends to cause poor interfacial bonding quality, and the presence of many microcracks reduced thermal stability and flexural and impact strength. Many fibers were exposed, which resulted in increasing 24 h water absorption and thermal expansion coefficient. The hardness, tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength, and pyrolysis temperature of the composites (after 21 d of aging) decreased from 50 HRR, 17.42 MPa, 35.2 MPa, 3.19 kJ/m2, and 258.5°C to 26 HRR, 11.5 MPa, 16.8 MPa, 1.16 kJ/m2, and 251.3°C, respectively. The mass loss rate, 24 h water absorption, discoloration, and line thermal expansion coefficient of the composites increased from 0%, 4.19%, 0, and 28.43 to 2.9%, 7.92%, 29.03, and 29.98, respectively.
Additional Effects of Nutritional Antioxidant Supplementation on Peripheral Muscle during Pulmonary Rehabilitation in COPD Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Gouzi Fares , Maury Jonathan , Héraud Nelly , Molinari Nicolas , Bertet Héléna , Ayoub Bronia , Blaquière Marine , Bughin François , De Rigal Philippe , Poulain Magali , Pincemail Joël , Cristol Jean-Paul , Laoudj-Chenivesse Dalila , Mercier Jacques , Préfaut Christian , Pomiès Pascal , Hayot Maurice
Published: April 2019

Background. Skeletal muscle dysfunction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not fully reversed by exercise training. Antioxidants are critical for muscle homeostasis and adaptation to training. However, COPD patients experience antioxidant deficits that worsen after training and might impact their muscle response to training. Nutritional antioxidant supplementation in combination with pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) would further improve muscle function, oxidative stress, and PR outcomes in COPD patients. Methods. Sixty-four COPD patients admitted to inpatient PR were randomized to receive 28 days of oral antioxidant supplementation targeting the previously observed deficits (PR antioxidant group; α-tocopherol: 30 mg/day, ascorbate: 180 mg/day, zinc gluconate: 15 mg/day, selenomethionine: 50 μg/day) or placebo (PR placebo group). PR consisted of 24 sessions of moderate-intensity exercise training. Changes in muscle endurance (primary outcome), oxidative stress, and PR outcomes were assessed. Results. Eighty-one percent of the patients (FEV1=58.9±20.0%pred) showed at least one nutritional antioxidant deficit. Training improved muscle endurance in the PR placebo group (+37.4±45.1%, p<0.001), without additional increase in the PR antioxidant group (-6.6±11.3%; p=0.56). Nevertheless, supplementation increased the α-tocopherol/γ-tocopherol ratio and selenium (+58±20%, p<0.001, and +16±5%, p<0.01, respectively), muscle strength (+11±3%, p<0.001), and serum total proteins (+7±2%, p<0.001), and it tended to increase the type I fiber proportion (+32±17%, p=0.07). The prevalence of muscle weakness decreased in the PR antioxidant group only, from 30.0 to 10.7% (p<0.05). Conclusions. While the primary outcome was not significantly improved, COPD patients demonstrate significant improvements of secondary outcomes (muscle strength and other training-refractory outcomes), suggesting a potential “add-on” effect of the nutritional antioxidant supplementation (vitamins C and E, zinc, and selenium) during PR. This trial is registered with NCT01942889.
Comparison of the Microwave Absorption Properties of Opuntia ficus-indica, Agave atrovirens, and Cocos nucifera L. Husk
Authors: Simón Jorge , Villanueva-Maldonado J. , Castillo-Soria Francisco R. , Cardenas-Juarez Marco , Briones Edgar , Sandoval-Arechiga Remberto , Soriano-Equigua Leonel , Alvarez-Flores José L.
Published: April 2019

In this work, a comparison of the microwave absorption properties of Opuntia ficus-indica cladodes, Agave atrovirens branches, and Cocos nucifera L. husk samples was performed. The study was carried out by inserting dry and powdered samples of these organic materials transversely and in the middle of a rectangular waveguide, for which scattering parameters S21 and S11 were measured to estimate the absorption coefficient. These measurements were compared to determine the material that behaves the best as a microwave absorber with a view to develop future low-cost and eco-friendly products by reusing agricultural waste. Specifically, Agave atrovirens sample showed the best performance, having an average value of absorption coefficient of 0.4218, while its maximum was 0.5792 at 9.706 GHz within the range from 8.005 to 13 GHz.
Complementary Configuration and Optimal Energy Flow of CCHP‐ORC Systems Using a Matrix Modeling Approach
Authors: Huang Wencong , Chang Yufang , Yuan Youxin
Published: April 2019

A mass of thermal energy from the combined cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) system will be wasted by the buildings with low ratio of heat to power demand. To further improve the using efficiency of the excess thermal energy, an active method, which adds the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) equipment in the CCHP system, is configured. A complementary configuration of this CCHP‐ORC is also investigated. This paper presents a matrix modeling approach to establish a mathematical model of the CCHP‐ORC system. The CCHP‐ORC system can be viewed as a multiple input and multiple output (MIMO) model. Energy conversion of the system components is described as the efficiency matrices. Energy flow between the system components is described as dispatch matrices. Energy conversion and flow from the system input to output are modeled by a conversion matrix. The objective function and the constraints of the system are determined. The optimal operation strategies are obtained by solving the optimization problem of minimizing the evaluation criteria function. Comprehensive case studies are conducted based on a hypothetical CCHP‐ORC system. The study results reveal that the effectiveness and economic efficiency of the proposed approaches outperform those obtained from conventional CCHP systems.
Treatment of In-Stent Restenosis by Excimer Laser Coronary Atherectomy and Drug-Coated Balloon: Serial Assessment with Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Miyazaki Toru , Ashikaga Takashi , Fukushima Taku , Hatano Yu , Sasaoka Taro , Kurihara Ken , Ono Yuichi , Shimizu Shigeo , Otomo Kenichiro , Hirao Kenzo
Published: April 2019

Objectives. We aimed to compare the results of neointimal modification before drug-coated balloon (DCB) treatment with excimer laser coronary atherectomy (ELCA) plus scoring balloon predilation versus scoring balloon alone in patients presenting with in-stent restenosis (ISR).Background. Treatment of ISR with ELCA typically results in superior acute gain by neointima debulking. However, the efficacy of combination therapy of ELCA and DCB remains unknown.Methods. A total of 42 patients (44 ISR lesions) undergoing DCB treatment with ELCA plus scoring balloon (ELCA group, n = 18) or scoring balloon alone (non-ELCA group, n = 24) were evaluated via serial assessment by optical coherence tomography (OCT) performed before, after intervention, and at 6 months.Results. Although there was significantly greater frequency of diffuse restenosis and percent diameter stenosis (%DS) after intervention in the ELCA group, comparable result was shown in %DS, late lumen loss, and binary angiographic restenosis at follow-up. On OCT analysis, a decreased tendency in the minimum lumen area and a significant decrease in the minimum stent area were observed in the ELCA group between 6-month follow-up and after intervention (-0.89 ± 1.36 mm2vs. -0.09 ± 1.25 mm2, p = 0.05, -0.49 ± 1.48 mm2vs. 0.28 ± 0.78 mm2, p = 0.03, respectively). The changes in the neointimal area were similar between the groups, and target lesion revascularization showed comparable rates at 1 year (11.1% vs. 11.4%, p = 0.85).Conclusions. Despite greater %DS after intervention, ELCA before DCB had possible benefit for late angiographic and clinical outcome.
Study on Roof‐Coal Caving Characteristics with Complicated Structure by Fully Mechanized Caving Mining
Authors: Liang Yunpei , Li Lei , Li Xuelong , Wang Kequan , Chen Jinhua , Sun Zhongguang , Yang Xuelin
Published: April 2019

With mining technology and mechanization degree being improving, fully mechanized caving mining technology (FCM) has become a main method for thick coal seam extraction in China. However, roof‐coal caving characteristics in turn restrict its recovery efficiency, especially for the coal seam with complicated structure (CCS), that is, the coal seam comprises hard or soft coal and gangue. In order to explore the key factors influencing the roof‐coal caving and recovery characteristics, related research work has been conducted as follows: firstly, a mechanical model of CCS has been established, which indicates the strength of the coal and gangue will directly affect the roof‐coal recovery. Meanwhile, based on the geological settings of Qinyuan coal mine, numerical simulation on roof‐coal caving law under different thicknesses of hard or soft coal and gangue has been performed using UDEC software. The results show that the maximum principal stress will increase with the increase of mining depth, making the roof‐coal to break easily. Furthermore, the range of the plastic zone of the top coal and the damage degree of the top coal increase with the increase of mining depth. Physical modeling results show that when an extraction‐caving ratio is 1, the number of times the coal arch forms is 0.43 at every caving, up to a maximum of 3; the number of times coal arch forms with an extraction‐caving ratio of 2 is 4.65 times larger than that with an extraction‐caving ratio of 1. The probability of coal arch formation with an extraction‐caving ratio of 3 is minimal, about 0.4, which is due to that the arch span is large and the curvature is small, so it is difficult to form a stable arch structure. According to the mechanical characteristics of roof‐coal in Qinyuan coal mine, deep‐hole blasting technique has been used to reduce the fragments of roof‐coal crushed. The results show that this technique can effectively improve the recovery of roof‐coal.