bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Naturalistic Driving Study Data to Investigate Driver Behavior at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings
Authors: Salim Alawudin , Jeon Myounghoon , Lautala Pasi , Nelson David
Published: June 2018

Although accidents at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings (HRGCs) have been greatly reduced over the past decades, they continue to be a major problem for the rail industry, causing injuries, loss of life, and loss of revenue. Recently, the Strategic Highway Research Program sponsored a Naturalistic Driving Study, the SHRP2 NDS, which produced a unique opportunity to look at how drivers behave while traversing HRGCs. This research deviates from previous studies by concentrating on day-to-day actions of drivers who traverse the HRGCs without an incident, instead of focusing on the accident events that have formed the foundation most earlier studies. This paper will focus on the effects of the external environment, weather and day/night conditions, on driver behavior at HRGCs. We will present the methodology and data used for the study and provide some early results from the analysis, such as differences in compliance during poor versus clear weather. We will use both a compliance score based on scanning and speed reduction and an analysis of brake and gas pedal usage during the approach to a HRGC. The paper will conclude with a brief discussion of future research concepts.
Traceability of Marine LNG Bunkering Measurements
Authors: Kegel Thomas , Johansen William
Published: June 2018

Industrial use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) has a surprisingly long history. The first practical refrigeration system was built in 1873; the first commercial liquefaction plant was built in 1917. Over time two applications have been developed that are relevant to the current paper. The first involves storage of LNG to handle peak demand in pipeline systems, the process is identified as “peak shaving”. A second application is the transport of hydrocarbon fuel where gas pipelines are unavailable.

Paper published with permission.
The Use of Text Messaging for Injury Reporting in Sports: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Chimera Nicole J. , Lininger Monica R. , Warren Meghan
Published: June 2018

Clinical Question: Can text message be used for epidemiologic data collection and accurate injury reporting in recreational and club sport participation? Clinical Bottom Line: Text message may be advantageous for injury surveillance in recreational exercise and club sport participation. This novel method may provide a more complete understanding of injury rates as this tool allows for more immediate recall of injury exposures and incidences. Further, data suggest that injuries are reported more often via text message compared to those reported to health care personnel.
The Significance of Baseball Games Between South Korean Teams and US Army Teams Shortly After World War II
Authors: Cho Moongi
Published: June 2018

Baseball was introduced to Korea in 1905 by Philip Gillette, a YMCA-affiliated American missionary. The sport spread to schools through games played against the YMCA team. However, baseball games were banned until the end of World War II due to the Baseball Control Proposal, enacted in 1932, and the war mobilization effort due to the outbreak of the Sino-Japanese War in 1937. Immediately following the end of World War II, baseball was restored in Korea along with the desire of the Korean people to establish an independent country. The US Military Government tried to propagate the idea that their governing system was based on “liberty,” unlike the empire of Japan, by hosting cultural projects such as the “Jomi Baseball Game”. From this perspective, cultural forms, such as a baseball, were inseparably linked to the political strategy of the US Military Government during the outset of the Cold War, which led to the establishment of a liberal democratic independent country.
Interpopulation Variation in the Atlantic Salmon Microbiome Reflects Environmental and Genetic Diversity
Authors: Uren Webster Tamsyn M. , Consuegra Sofia , Hitchings Matthew , Garcia de Leaniz Carlos
Published: June 2018

Variation in the microbiome has a fundamental influence on host health, ecology, and evolution, but the scope and basis of this variation are not fully understood. We identified considerable variation in skin and gut microbial communities between seven wild and captive populations of Atlantic salmon, reflecting divergent environmental conditions and fish genetic diversity. In particular, we found very pronounced differences in the intestinal microbiomes of wild and hatchery-reared fish, likely reflecting differences in diet. Our results offer an insight into how the microbiome potentially contributes to the generation of local adaptations in this species and how domestication alters intestinal microbial communities, highlighting future research directions in these areas.
Proteome Response of a Metabolically Flexible Anoxygenic Phototroph to Fe(II) Oxidation
Authors: Bryce Casey , Franz-Wachtel Mirita , Nalpas Nicolas C. , Miot Jennyfer , Benzerara Karim , Byrne James M. , Kleindienst Sara , Macek Boris , Kappler Andreas
Published: June 2018

The cycling of iron between redox states leads to the precipitation and dissolution of minerals, which can in turn impact other major biogeochemical cycles, such as those of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and sulfur. Anoxygenic phototrophs are one of the few drivers of Fe(II) oxidation in anoxic environments and are thought to contribute significantly to iron cycling in both modern and ancient environments. These organisms thrive at high Fe(II) concentrations, yet the adaptations required to tolerate the stresses associated with this are unclear. Despite the general consensus that high Fe(II) concentrations pose numerous stresses on these organisms, our study of the large-scale proteome response of a model anoxygenic phototroph to Fe(II) oxidation demonstrates that common iron homeostasis strategies are adequate to manage this. The bulk of the proteome response is not driven by adaptations to Fe(II) stress but to adaptations required to utilize an inorganic carbon source. Such a global overview of the adaptation of these organisms to Fe(II) oxidation provides valuable insights into the physiology of these biogeochemically important organisms and suggests that Fe(II) oxidation may not pose as many challenges to anoxygenic phototrophs as previously thought.
Expression of a Structural Protein of the Mycovirus FgV-ch9 Negatively Affects the Transcript Level of a Novel Symptom Alleviation Factor and Causes Virus Infection-Like Symptoms in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Bormann Jörg , Heinze Cornelia , Blum Christine , Mentges Michael , Brockmann Anke , Alder Arne , Landt Svenja Kim , Josephson Brian , Indenbirken Daniela , Spohn Michael , Plitzko Birte , Loesgen Sandra , Freitag Michael , Schäfer Wilhelm
Published: June 2018

Virus infections of phytopathogenic fungi occasionally impair growth, reproduction, and virulence, a phenomenon referred to as hypovirulence. Hypovirulence-inducing mycoviruses, therefore, represent a powerful means to defeat fungal epidemics on crop plants. However, the poor understanding of the molecular basis of hypovirulence induction limits their application. Using the devastating fungal pathogen on cereal crops,
Fusarium graminearum
, we identified an mRNA binding protein (named virus response 1,
vr1
) which is involved in symptom expression. Downregulation of
vr1
in the virus-infected fungus and
vr1
deletion evoke virus infection-like symptoms, while constitutive expression overrules the cytopathic effects of the virus infection. Intriguingly, the presence of a specific viral structural protein is sufficient to trigger the fungal response, i.e.,
vr1
downregulation, and symptom development similar to virus infection. The advancements in understanding fungal infection and response may aid biological pest control approaches using mycoviruses or viral proteins to prevent future
Fusarium
epidemics.
Directed Evolution of an Influenza Reporter Virus To Restore Replication and Virulence and Enhance Noninvasive Bioluminescence Imaging in Mice
Authors: Cai Hui , Liu Meisui , Russell Charles J.
Published: June 2018

Influenza viruses contribute to 290,000 to 650,000 deaths globally each year. Infection is studied in mice to learn how the virus causes sickness and to develop new drugs and vaccines. During experiments, scientists have needed to euthanize groups of mice at different times to measure the amount of infectious virus in mouse tissues. By inserting a foreign gene that causes infected cells to light up, scientists could see infection spread in living mice. Unfortunately, adding an extra gene not needed by the virus slowed it down and made it weaker. Here, we used a new strategy to restore the fitness and lethality of an influenza reporter virus; we adapted it to mouse lungs and selected for variants that had the greatest light signal. The adapted virus can be used to study influenza virus infection, immunology, and disease in living mice. The strategy can also be used to adapt other viruses.
Declining Singapore — a 21st Century Dunhuang in the Making?
Authors: Yip Vincent F.
Published: June 2018

Singapore is currently facing economic realities and geo-political headwinds that bear many similarities to those that brought about the decline and eventual obsolescence of Dunhuang, the desert oasis city in northwest China that once served as the strategic fulcrum of the prosperous Silk Road, connecting East and West for more than a thousand years. Ideological differences and practical conflicts of interest with an emerging China threaten to sideline Singapore and even render it irrelevant as China continues to pursue its ambitious Belt and Road Initiative. Singapore is experiencing an existential crisis unlike any it has encountered in its past 53 years of independence. A prudent strategic response would be for Singapore to emulate the Swiss model of political balance among nations, maintain its traditional neutrality and rely on its unique strategic/economic strengths in order to ensure the small republic’s survival and long-term prosperity in a region facing tumultuous upheavals in the remainder of the 21st century.
Association of Thrombomodulin Gene C1418T Polymorphism with Susceptibility to Kawasaki Disease in Chinese Children
Authors: Lu Yapeng , Liu Rui , Zha Luting , Yuan Shan , Tian Lang , Chen Jia , Huang Lihua , Yang Zuocheng
Published: June 2018

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute systemic vasculitis that predominantly affects children and can result in coronary artery lesions (CALs). Thrombomodulin (TM) is a critical cofactor in the protein C anticoagulant system. The TM C1418T (rs1042579) polymorphism is associated with a high risk of cardiac-cerebral vascular diseases. But the association of the TM C1418T polymorphism with susceptibility to KD, CAL formation, and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resistance is still unclear. In our study, we examined the TM C1418T polymorphism in 122 children with KD and 126 healthy children and revealed the correlation between the TM C1418T polymorphism and KD, CAL formation, and IVIG resistance.
Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome: A Rare Cause of Recurrent Facial Nerve Palsy and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Kosovali Behiye Deniz , Yavuz Asiye , Yesiler Fatma Irem , Bayar Mustafa Kemal
Published: June 2018

Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome (MRS) is a rare disease characterized by persistent or recurrent orofacial oedema, relapsing peripheral facial paralysis, and furrowed tongue. Pathologically, granulomatosis is responsible for oedema of face, labia, oral cavity, and facial nerve. We present a patient with MRS admitted to our hospital with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). 45-year-old woman was admitted to an emergency department with dyspnea and swelling on her hands and face. She was intubated because of ARDS and accepted to intensive care unit (ICU). After weaning from ventilatory support, peripheral facial paralysis was diagnosed and steroid treatment was added to her therapy. On dermatologic examination, oedema on her face, pustular lesions on her skin, and fissure on her tongue were detected. The patient informed us about her recurrent and spontaneous facial paralysis in previous years. According to her history and clinical findings, MRS was diagnosed.
TEMPO-Functionalized Nanoporous Au Nanocomposite for the Electrochemical Detection of H2O2
Authors: Wen Dongxiao , Liu Qianrui , Cui Ying , Yang Huaixia , Kong Jinming
Published: June 2018

A novel nanocomposite of nanoporous gold nanoparticles (np-AuNPs) functionalized with 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidinyloxy radical (TEMPO) was prepared; assembled carboxyl groups on gold nanoporous nanoparticles surface were combined with TEMPO by the “bridge” of carboxylate-zirconium-carboxylate chemistry. SEM images and UV-Vis spectroscopies of np-AuNPs indicated that a safe, sustainable, and simplified one-step dealloying synthesis approach is successful. The TEMPO-np-AuNPs exhibited a good performance for the electrochemical detection of H2O2 due to its higher number of electrochemical activity sites and surface area of 7.49 m2g-1 for load bigger amount of TEMPO radicals. The TEMPO-functionalized np-AuNPs have a broad pH range and shorter response time for H2O2 catalysis verified by the response of amperometric signal under different pH and time interval. A wide linear range with a detection limit of 7.8 × 10-7 M and a higher sensitivity of 110.403 μA mM-1cm-2 were obtained for detecting H2O2 at optimal conditions.
Evaluation of Lsa46 and Lsa77 Leptospiral Proteins for Their Immunoprotective Activities in Hamster Model of Leptospirosis
Authors: Teixeira Aline F. , Fernandes Luis G. V. , Souza Filho Antonio , Souza Gisele O. , Vasconcellos Silvio A. , Heinemann Marcos B. , Nascimento Ana L. T. O.
Published: June 2018

Leptospirosis is a neglected tropical disease caused by pathogenicLeptospiraspp. The lack of an effective vaccine favors the increase of the disease. Currently, surface-exposed proteins are the main targets for the search of vaccine candidates. In this study, we examined whether the surface Lsa46 and Lsa77 proteins, previously identified as laminin and plasminogen binding proteins, have the capacity of inducing protection and sterilizing immunity against challenge with virulentLeptospirain hamster model. Animals were subcutaneously immunized with Lsa46, Lsa77, or a combination of both in Alum adjuvant and challenged intraperitoneally withL. interrogansserovar Kennewicki strain Pomona Fromm. Hamster immunization with Lsa46 or Lsa77 or both promoted a strong IgG response. Th2- and Th1-biased immune responses were observed when Lsa46 and Lsa77 were individually administered, respectively, as detected by the IgG1/IgG2/3 ratio. Immunized hamsters with the combined proteins induced a Th1-biased immune response. Although the immunization with Lsa46 and Lsa77 stimulated protective immunity with reduction of bacterial burden, when compared to animals individually immunized with the proteins, the data was not statistically significant. Thus, although promising, more studies are needed before the role of these proteins in stimulating sterilizing immunity in mammals is conclusively determined.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension and Endothelial Dysfunction Is Linked to NADPH Oxidase‐Derived Superoxide Formation in Venous Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism in Mice
Authors: Brandt Moritz , Giokoglu Eleni , Garlapati Venkata , Bochenek Madgalena L. , Molitor Michael , Hobohm Lukas , Schönfelder Tanja , Münzel Thomas , Kossmann Sabine , Karbach Susanne H. , Schäfer Katrin , Wenzel Philip
Published: June 2018

Pulmonary embolism (PE) results from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and can lead to chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) involving vascular dysfunction. Mechanisms are incompletely understood, in part due to lack of mouse models. We induced PE in C57BL/6 mice by intravenous injection of thrombin (166 U/kg BW), confirmed by a sudden bradycardia, bradypnea, and an increase in pulmonary artery (PA) pressure observed by high‐frequency ultrasound. While symptoms resolved rapidly after single thrombin application, repeated PEs resulted in sustained PA‐pressure increase, increased PA superoxide formation assessed by oxidative fluorescent microtopography, increased PA gp91phox expression, and endothelial dysfunction assessed by isometric tension studies of isolated PA segments after 24 hours. DVT was modeled in C57BL/6 mice by ligation of the inferior vena cava (IVC). Importantly, small pulmonary emboli could be detected along with a mild phenotype of PA endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress in the absence of PA‐pressure elevation. mRNA expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 was increased in PAs of mice with recurrent PE after repetitive thrombin injections and to a lesser extent in DVT mice. In summary, our data suggest that PA endothelial dysfunction, induced by gp91phox‐derived ROS, is an early event upon repetitive PE. This phenomenon might help to elucidate the mechanisms of PA dysfunction in the pathogenesis of CTEPH.
The Impact of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction on Emotional Wellbeing and Glycemic Control of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Armani Kian A. , Vahdani B. , Noorbala A. A. , Nejatisafa A. , Arbabi M. , Zenoozian S. , Nakhjavani M.
Published: June 2018

Objective. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) intervention on emotion regulation and glycemic control of patients with type 2 diabetes. Materials and Methods. Sixty patients with type 2 diabetes were recruited for this randomized controlled trial from an outpatient clinic at Imam Hospital in Iran. The intervention group participated in 8 sessions of MBSR, and the control group continued the treatment as usual. Fasting blood sugar and HbA1c were measured as two indices of glycemic control. Overall mental health, depression, and anxiety were measured using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS), respectively. All the assessments were performed at baseline and after 8 weeks and 3 months as follow-up. Results. In comparison with the control group, the MBSR intervention group showed a significant reduction on all outcome measures including FBS, HbA1C, HARS, and HDRS scores (p<0/05). Conclusion. MBSR had a remarkable improvement on emotional wellbeing and glycemic control of patients with type 2 diabetes.
Flexural Assessment of Blast-Damaged RC Beams Retrofitted with CFRP Sheet and Steel Fiber
Authors: Lee Jin-Young , Shin Hyun-Oh , Min Kyung-Hwan , Yoon Young-Soo
Published: June 2018

This study presents the effects of blast-induced local damages on the flexural strength of blast-damaged and repaired specimens. In the experimental program, blast-damaged specimens were repaired with steel fiber reinforced cementitious composite (SFRCC) as well as carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets and tested for flexural strength measurements. The test parameters included shear reinforcement (amount and spacing), steel fiber content (0, 1.0 vol%), and retrofitting with CFRP sheets. The test results indicated that the use of higher amounts of stirrups demonstrated insignificant benefits in preventing local damages. However, it was shown that the use of small-diameter steel bars for stirrups with small spacing could decrease the local damages more effectively compared to the large-diameter steel reinforcement. For the residual strength of the damaged specimens, the specimens using more stirrups could resist over 60% of their original flexural strength. CFRP retrofitting showed insignificant enhancement in ductility of intact, damaged, and repaired specimens. However, it distributed the blast load and protected debris scattering. The addition of steel fibers results in increased ductility and enhanced blast resistance against local damages. All specimens, excluding control specimen, that repaired with SFRCC showed higher flexural strength to their original strength. Therefore, it can be concluded that replacing damaged concrete cover with SFRCC is adequate for repairing the blast-damaged RC members.
Location, Isolation, and Identification of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Adult Human Sweat Glands
Authors: Ma Yingzhi , Li Meirong , Liu Jinyu , Pang Chuanchao , Zhang Jianqing , Li Yulin , Fu Xiaobing
Published: June 2018

Sweat glands (SGs) are spread over almost the entire surface of the human body and are essential for thermoregulation. Theoretically, tissue-specific stem cells (TSSCs) are excellent candidate cells for the regeneration of SGs due to their genetic stability and differentiation ability. Herein, we attempted to isolate TSSCs derived from adult human sweat glands (ahSGs). ahSGs were localized and identified by H&E staining, double immunofluorescence staining, transmission electron microscope (TEM), and immuno-TEM. We found a population of cells with stem cell characteristics (SGSCs), located in basal myoepithelial cells of the secretory portion of the solenoid bulb. The SGSCs expressed alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and showed the typical characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), with a positive antigen profile for CD44, CD73, CD90, and CD105, and had the multilineage differentiation potential to osteoblasts and adipocytes. In addition, the isolatedα-SMA positive cells remained stably phenotypic and proliferative cycles at passage 12. This is the first report of successful isolation of MSC-like cells from ahSGs, which may contribute to wound repair and SG regeneration.
Open Fracture of the Acromion: An Isolated Injury with Oblique-Type Fracture
Authors: Alawad Mohammad O. , Alharthi Saleh , Mahmoud Jameel , Alanazi Basam , Surur Saad
Published: June 2018

Open acromial fractures are a rare set of fractures. We report a case of Gustilo IIIA open acromial fracture (14A2 as per OTA scapular fracture classification) that was isolated from any other injury. Our patient had a good recovery and showed excellent clinical outcome after irrigation and screw fixation of the acromial fracture. We also reviewed the literature for other cases of open acromial fracture.
Dental Impaction in the Cecum: Case Report and Review of Gastrointestinal Foreign Body Impactions
Authors: Abu Ghanimeh Mouhanna , Abughanimeh Omar , Albadarin Sakher , Kaddourah Osama , Helzberg John H.
Published: June 2018

Approximately 20% of the adult population in the United States wears dentures. Foreign body ingestions, including dentures, are not uncommon. Although the majority of all ingested foreign bodies pass spontaneously through the gastrointestinal tract, impaction may occur, especially with physiologic constrictions, angulations, or stenosis. The esophagus is the most common site of impaction, whereas colonic impaction is extremely uncommon. We present a case of an 84-year-old male who was referred to the gastroenterology clinic for denture impaction, which lasted for two weeks. The patient had already failed to pass the denture following conservative treatment with laxatives, and repeated abdominal imaging showed the dental plate in the cecum. Colonoscopy was performed three weeks after the ingestion of his dentures, and tripod forceps were used to dislodge the end of the dental plate and ultimately remove it. The patient was asymptomatic for the entire period.
Robust Observer-Based H∞ Controller Design for Motorcycle Lateral Dynamics
Authors: Ferjani A. , Zaidi I. , Chaabane M.
Published: June 2018

The present work deals with the design problem of a robust observer-based controller for a motorcycle system using LPV approach. The designed model is specifically uncertain and disturbed one, whose uncertainties are related to variations of both the cornering stiffness and the longitudinal velocity. The nonlinear motorcycle model is firstly transformed on an uncertain LPV model with two vertices; then an observer-based H∞ robust controller is designed. Both the controller and observer gain matrices are computed by solving a unified convex optimization problem under LMI constraints using YALMIP solver. Numerical simulation results are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the designed method.
Research on Reconfigurable Mechanism of Manufacturing System for Printing Process Based on ACP
Authors: Li Huailin , Luo Rubai , Zhou Shisheng , Gao Shasha
Published: June 2018

The reconfiguration manufacturing system (RMS) allows mass manufacturing to be changed into customized mass production and short-series production. However, the existing RMS models are not applicable to the printing production process, which is coexistence of the hybrid nature of being continuous and discrete. With the printing manufacturing system as the object of the research, this paper proposes the Agent-Resource-Workstation (ARW) model based on agent by analyzing the characteristics of “Production and Consumption of Resources” in the printing process. And then, each component of the ARW model is analyzed and defined. Finally, after systematically abstracting the reconfiguration of workstation models (RWMs), the reconfigurable mechanism of RWMs is established based on the algebra of communicating process (ACP), and formal verification was conducted by applying axioms of process algebra. The verification results show that RWM can show its external behavior well. Meanwhile, our research provides a theoretical approach for the reconfiguration of the printing manufacturing system.
Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio as a Predictor of Poor Prognosis in Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer Patients Treated with Nab-Paclitaxel plus Gemcitabine: A Propensity Score Analysis
Authors: Ventriglia J. , Petrillo A. , Huerta Alváro M. , Laterza M. M. , Savastano B. , Gambardella V. , Tirino G. , Pompella L. , Diana A. , Iovino F. , Troiani T. , Martinelli E. , Morgillo F. , Orditura M. , Cervantes A. , Ciardiello F. , De Vita F.
Published: June 2018

Background. High neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has shown to be a predictor of poor outcomes in various malignancies, including pancreatic cancer. Methods. We assessed 70 consecutive pts with histologically confirmed mPC who received chemotherapy with nab-paclitaxel/gemcitabine at two different European oncologic centers between January 2012 and November 2015. Variables assessed for prognostic correlations included age ≥ 66, sex, Karnofsky PS score, primary tumor site, baseline CA19.9 level ≥ 59xULN, 12-week decrease of the CA19.9 level ≥ 50% from baseline, basal bilirubin level, baseline NLR, biliary stent implantation, and liver metastasis. Survival analyses were generated according to the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed by a Cox proportional hazard model. Results. According to NLR values, the patients were divided into two groups: high and low. Low group patients showed a better median PFS (7 months versus 5 months) and median OS (13 months versus 7 months) in respect to high group patients. At multivariate analysis, Karnofsky PS < 80% (HR = 0.4; CI 0.2–1.2), liver metastases (HR = 0.4; CI 0.18–0.82), and NLR ≥ 5 (HR = 2.7; 95% CI 1.4–5.2) were predictors of poorer OS. Based on the presence of one or more independent prognostic factors, three risk categories were identified: good-risk, intermediate-risk and poor-risk. The median OS was 22, 10, and 7 months, respectively. Conclusions. Baseline NLR is an independent predictor of survival of patients with mPC receiving palliative chemotherapy and could be useful to develop a simple clinical score to identify a subgroup of patients with a low chance to benefit from chemotherapy.
Antimalarial Activity ofCroton macrostachyusStem Bark Extracts againstPlasmodium berghei In Vivo
Authors: Obey Jackie K. , Ngeiywa Moses M. , Kiprono Paul , Omar Sabah , von Wright Atte , Kauhanen Jussi , Tikkanen-Kaukanen Carina
Published: June 2018

There is an increasing need for innovative drug and prophylaxis discovery against malaria. The aim of the present study was to testin vivoantiplasmodial activity ofCroton macrostachyusH. (Euphorbiaceae) stem bark extracts from Kenyan folkloric medicine. Inbred Balb/c mice were inoculated with erythrocytes parasitized withPlasmodium berghei(ANKA). Different doses (500, 250, and 100 mg/kg) ofC. macrostachyusethyl acetate, methanol, aqueous, and isobutanol extracts were administrated either after inoculation (Peters’ 4-day suppressive test) or before inoculation (chemoprotective test) of the parasitized erythrocytes. All the extracts showed significant suppression of parasitemia compared to control (p<0.001): for the ethyl acetate extract in the range of 58–82%, for the methanol extract in the range of 27–68%, for the aqueous extract in the range of 24–72%, and for the isobutanol extract in the range of 61–80%. Chemoprotective effect was significant (p<0.001) and the suppression caused by the ethyl acetate extract was between 74 and 100%, by the methanol extract between 57 and 83%, and by the isobutanol extract between 86–92%. The study showed that it is possible to inhibit the growth of the parasites by various stem bark extracts ofC. macrostachyusin Balb/c mice supporting the folkloric use of the plant against malaria.
Poisson Denoising for Astronomical Images
Authors: Shamshad Fahad , Riaz M. Mohsin , Ghafoor Abdul
Published: June 2018

A denoising scheme for astronomical color images/videos corrupted with Poisson noise is proposed. The scheme employs the concept of Exponential Principal Component Analysis and sparsity of image patches. The color space RGB is converted to YCbCr and K-means++ clustering is applied on luminance component only. The cluster centers are used for chromatic components to improve the computational efficiency. For videos, the information of both spatial and temporal correlations improves the denoising. Simulation results verify the significance of proposed scheme in both visual and quantitative manner.
Drug Hypersensitivity due to Azathioprine with Elevated Procalcitonin
Authors: Ahuja Tania , Chung Frank R. , Ruiz-Maya Tania
Published: June 2018

We present a case of azathioprine hypersensitivity presenting as sepsis with elevated procalcitonin in a 68-year-old man with myasthenia gravis. The patient presented with fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and headache. He developed numerous 1 cm erythematous papules over his upper torso. Infectious workup including bacteriological tests and microbial cultures was negative and a skin biopsy was performed which revealed suppurative folliculitis with eosinophils, consistent with drug hypersensitivity. Notably, acute phase reactants including C-reactive protein and procalcitonin were elevated upon presentation, likely secondary to drug hypersensitivity.
The Roles of Thyroid and Thyroid Hormone in Pancreas: Physiology and Pathology
Authors: Chen Chaoran , Xie Zhenxing , Shen Yingbin , Xia Shu Fang
Published: June 2018

It is widely accepted that thyroid hormones (THs), secreted from the thyroid, play important roles in energy metabolism. It is also known that THs also alter the functioning of other endocrine glands; however, their effects on pancreatic function have not yet been reviewed. One of the main functions of the pancreas is insulin secretion, which is altered in diabetes. Diabetes, therefore, could be related to thyroid dysfunction. Earlier research on this subject focused on TH regulation of pancreas function (such as insulin secretion) or on insulin function through TH-mediated increase of energy metabolism. Afterwards, epidemiological investigations and animal test research found a link between autoimmune diseases, thyroid dysfunction, and pancreas pathology; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that THs also play important roles in pancreas development and on islet pathology, both in diabetes and in pancreatic cancer. Therefore, an overview of the effects of thyroid and THs on pancreas physiology and pathology is presented. The topics contained in this review include a summary of the relationship between autoimmune thyroid dysfunction and autoimmune pancreas lesions and the effects of THs on pancreas development and pancreas pathology (diabetes and pancreatic cancer).
Reducing the Frame Vibration of Delta Robot in Pick and Place Application: An Acceleration Profile Optimization Approach
Authors: Cheng Hongtai , Li Wei
Published: June 2018

Delta robot is typically mounted on a frame and performs high speed pick and place tasks from top to bottom. Because of its outstanding accelerating capability and higher center of mass, the Delta robot can generate significant frame vibration. Existing trajectory smoothing methods mainly focus on vibration reduction for the robot instead of the frame, and modifying the frame structure increases the manufacturing cost. In this paper, an acceleration profile optimization approach is proposed to reduce the Delta robot‐frame vibration. The profile is determined by the maximum jerk, acceleration, and velocity. The pick and place motion (PPM) and resulting frame vibration are analyzed in frequency domain. Quantitative analysis shows that frame vibration can be reduced by altering those dynamic motion parameters. Because the analytic model is derived based on several simplifications, it cannot be directly applied. A surrogate model‐based optimization method is proposed to solve the practical issues. By directly executing the PPM with different parameters and measuring the vibration, a model is derived using Gaussian Process Regression (GPR). In order to reduce the frame vibration without sacrificing robot efficiency, those two goals are fused together according to their priorities. Based on the surrogate model, a single objective optimization problem is formulated and solved by Genetic Algorithm (GA). Experimental results show effectiveness of the proposed method. Behavior of the optimal parameters also verifies the robot‐frame vibration mechanism.
Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication Characteristics of Spiral Bevel Gear Subjected to Shot Peening Treatment
Authors: Mo Shuai , Zhang Ting , Jin Guoguang , Zhu Shengping , Gong Jiabei , Bian Jingyang
Published: June 2018

High speed and heavy load put forward demanding requirements for the bending strength of spiral bevel gear. Shot peening, as a technological method, can greatly improve the bending strength of gear. During shot peening, a large number of subtle projectiles bombard the tooth surface of spiral bevel gear at an extremely high speed, which makes the latter produce plastic deformation and strengthened layer. Serving as the bombarded target, spiral bevel gear inevitably leads to the change of tooth surfaces microstructure. This paper aims at revealing the coupling law between microstructure and lubrication characteristics and establishing a reasonable model that can describe the tooth surface microstructure of shot peened spiral bevel gear. Besides, this paper brings insight into the lubrication characteristics of shot peened spiral bevel gears. Based on the elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) theory, a comparative research on tooth surface lubrication characteristics has been conducted by various microscopic morphologies in this study.
Exploration on the Interaction Ability of Antitumor Compound Bis-[2,6-difluoro-N-(hydroxyl-<κ>O)benzamidato-<κ>O]dibutylitin(IV) with Human Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor hPPARγ
Authors: Mai Jiaqi , Li Yunlan , Qiao Xiaozhi , Ji Xiaoqing , Li Qingshan
Published: June 2018

Diorganotin(IV) antitumor compound bis-[2,6-difluoro-N-(hydroxyl-<κ>O)benzamidato-<κ>O] (DBDF2,6T) was one of the novel patent organotin compounds with high antitumor activity and relatively low toxicity. In this study, several methods were used to study the interaction between DBDF2,6T and hPPARγprotein, including fluorescence quenching, three-dimensional (3D) fluorescence, drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS), ultrafiltration-LC, and molecular docking. According to the experimental results, the quenching process of the hPPARγprotein was induced by static quenching mode to form a nonradiative ground-state complex with DBDF2,6T spontaneously, mainly through the hydrophobic force. DBDF2,6T could bind to the hPPARγprotein directly and give the protein the ability of antienzymatic hydrolysis. And the binding mode of DBDF2,6T into hPPARγprotein appeared to have an orientation towards residues of SER342 and GLY284. In conclusion, these methods could comprehensively reveal the interaction details of DBDF2,6T and the hPPARγprotein and established a feasible way to preliminarily identify the agonist compounds for the hPPARγprotein.
A Design of Parameters with Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Brayton Cycle for CiADS
Authors: He Yichuan , Dong Aihua , Xie Min , Liu Yang
Published: June 2018

Recompression supercritical carbon dioxide (SCO2) Brayton Cycle for the Chinese Initiative Accelerator Driven System (CiADS) is taken into account, and flexible thermodynamic modeling method is presented. The influences of the key parameters on thermodynamic properties of SCO2 Brayton Cycle are discussed and the comparative analyses on genetic algorithm and pattern search algorithm are conducted. It is shown that the cycle parameters such as turbine inlet temperature, pressure ratio, outlet temperature at the hot end of condenser, and terminal temperature difference of regenerator 1 and regenerator 2 have significant effects on the cycle thermal efficiency. The calculation results indicate that pattern search algorithm has better optimization performance and quicker calculating speed than genetic algorithm. The result of optimization of the parameters for CiADS with supercritical carbon dioxide Brayton Cycle is 35.97%. Compared with other nuclear power plants of SCO2 Brayton Cycle, CiADS with SCO2 Brayton Cycle does not have the best thermal efficiency, but the thermal efficiency can be improved with the reactor outlet temperature increases.
Obstructive Giant Inflammatory Polyposis: Is It Related to the Severity or the Duration of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease? Two Case Reports
Authors: Abou Rached Antoine , Saba Jowana , El Masri Leila , Nakhoul Mary , Razzouk Carla
Published: June 2018

We report two cases of giant inflammatory polyposis (GIP) with totally different presentation and evolution. The first patient had two giant pseudopolyps after one year of the diagnosis of UC. The second patient had one obstructive giant pseudopolyp secondary to CD at the level of the transverse colon, being totally asymptomatic years before the presentation. GIP is a rare complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It consists of numerous filiform polyps that look like a “mass of worms” or a “fungating” mass. Surgical resection is inevitable when GIP presents with obstructive symptoms.
CD30 Is Highly Expressed in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Induces the Pulmonary Vascular Remodeling
Authors: Luo Liang , Liu Yangli , Chen Dubo , Chen Fengjia , Lan Hai Bing , Xie Canmao
Published: June 2018

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the common and underdiagnosed diseases with the highest morbidity and mortality in the world. The development of COPD can lead to pulmonary vascular remodeling and pulmonary hypertension, further causing the occurrence of pulmonary heart disease. Therefore, attenuation of pulmonary vascular remodeling and pulmonary hypertension caused by COPD can significantly delay cardiovascular complications. In the study, we firstly found that the expression of CD30 and CD30L was increased in COPD. Importantly, the serum CD30L levels were significantly higher in patients with stable COPD relative to those with acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD). This suggested that CD30 might be related to the development of COPD. In addition, we found that the expression of CD30 in the COPD rat model was significantly increased compared with control group. And treatment with the anti-CD30 antibody reduced the serum concentration and tissue expression of CD30 in rat. Importantly, anti-CD30 antibody alleviated pulmonary vascular remodeling in COPD model rats. This suggested that CD30 played an important role in the course of COPD. Finally, we found that, in the HPASMC and HPAEC cell lines, CD30 can affect the cell viability and cell migration and inhibited hypoxia-induced cell apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner. We also found CD30 induced extracellular matrix formation through decreasing the expression of MMP-2, thus promoting the pulmonary vascular remodeling. The study indicated that CD30 and CD30L were involved in pulmonary vascular remodeling and inflammatory response in COPD. Altogether, CD30 might be a marker for the early diagnosis and progression of COPD.
Examining the Obesogenic Attributes of the Family Child Care Home Environment: A Literature Review
Authors: Francis Lucine , Shodeinde Lara , Black Maureen M. , Allen Jerilyn
Published: June 2018

Childhood obesity is a major public health concern in the US. More than a third of young children 2–5 years old are placed in nonrelative child care for the majority of the day, making the child care setting an important venue to spearhead obesity prevention. Much of the obesity research in child care has focused on center-based facilities, with emerging research on Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs)—child care operated in a home setting outside the child’s home. The purpose of this review was to assess the obesogenic attributes of the FCCH environment. A search of the PubMed, Embase, CINHAL, and PsycINFO electronic databases identified 3,281 citations; 35 eligible for full-text review, and 18 articles from 17 studies in the analysis. This review found a lack of comprehensive written nutrition and physical activity policies within FCCHs, lack of FCCH providers trained in nutrition and physical activity best practices, lack of adequate equipment and space for indoor and outdoor playtime activities in FCCHs, inaccurate nutrition-related beliefs and perceptions among FCCH providers, poor nutrition-related communication with families, and poor feeding practices. Future research focusing on interventions aimed at addressing these problem areas can contribute to obesity prevention.
Observation of Negative Magnetic Hysteresis Loop in ZnO Thin Films
Authors: Haseman Micah , Saadatkia Pooneh , Winarski David , Hernandez Armando , Kusz Matt , Anwand Wolfgang , Wagner Andreas , Thapa Sunil , Colosimo A. M. , Selim Farida A.
Published: June 2018

We report on the observation of an unusual negative magnetic hysteresis loop in ZnO thin film codoped with cobalt and aluminum (Co-Al:ZnO), while other transition-metal-doped ZnO films, such as Cu-doped ZnO and Mn-doped ZnO, exhibit normal hysteresis loops. The unusual magnetic behavior is ascribed to the presence of double magnetic layers with different magnetic moments due to the change of structural defects across the film layers. Positron annihilation measurements confirmed the presence of unique microstructural changes in the Co-Al:ZnO film. This study shows that defects in diluted magnetic semiconductors may induce not only ferromagnetism but also novel magnetic behaviors.
Sarcoid of the Upper Humerus Found Incidentally on MR Images Obtained for Work-Up of Rotator Cuff Tear Where Compromised Tissue Quality Was a Concern for Surgical Success
Authors: Henrie Tanner R. , Skedros John G.
Published: June 2018

Sarcoidosis is an idiopathic systemic inflammatory disorder characterized histologically by noncaseating granulomas. The pathogenesis likely includes genetic, immunologic, and environmental factors. The lungs, skin, and eyes are most commonly affected. Although bone involvement is possible, sarcoidosis of the humerus is rare, with few cases reported. Furthermore, we are unaware of any reports of sarcoidosis of the upper humerus with a coexisting rotator cuff tear. We report the case of a 50-year-old female with sarcoidosis of the humerus and a coexisting tear of the supraspinatus tendon. Her medical history includes type 2 diabetes, depression, and fatigue. She had chronic shoulder pain that worsened after her dog jerked on the leash. Radiographs were grossly normal. Subsequent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a possible small full-thickness rotator cuff tear. Multiple rounded lesions were also noted within the proximal humerus. A biopsy demonstrated noncaseating granulomas, confirming the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. There was concern that her sarcoid lesions would compromise bone quality, limiting options for surgical repair of her rotator cuff tear. However, it was determined that her lesion did not involve cortical bone, and surgery was performed. During surgery, the supraspinatus tendon was found to be partially torn and was treated with arthroscopic debridement and acromioplasty. An excellent result was ultimately achieved after her rheumatologist started adalimumab injections. This case demonstrates that there can be a rare incidental finding of osseous sarcoid lesions in the upper humerus where the bone might be compromised in the location of a planned rotator cuff repair.
Inhibitory Effects of Compounds and Extracts fromAmpelopsis brevipedunculataon IL-6-Induced STAT3 Activation
Authors: Jang Hyun-Jae , Lee Seung-Jae , Lim Hyung-Jin , Jung Kyungsook , Lee Soyoung , Park Chan Sun , Lee Seung Woong , Rho Mun-Chual
Published: June 2018

Ampelopsis brevipedunculata(Maxim.) Trautv. (AB), a traditional East Asian medicine, exhibits protective effects against several inflammatory diseases. Our search for an inhibitor of IL-6-induced JAK2/STAT3 activation revealed that AB ethanolic extract (ABE) had a significant inhibitory effect on IL-6-induced STAT3 expression in Hep3B cells. The isolation and purification of an EtOAc-soluble fraction of ABE (ABEA) using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) afforded 17 compounds. The structures of these compounds (1-17) were elucidated based on1H and13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy as well as electrospray-ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) data. ABE and ABEA were screened by a luciferase assay using Hep3B cells transfected with the STAT3 reporter gene. ABEA exhibited potent inhibitory effects on IL-6-induced STAT3 expression; moreover, these effects arose from the inhibition of the phosphorylation of the STAT3, JAK2, and ERK proteins in U266 cells. In addition, the compounds isolated from ABEA were measured for their inhibitory effects on IL-6-stimulated STAT3 expression. Of the compounds isolated, betulin showed the greatest inhibitory effects on IL-6-induced STAT3 activation in the luciferase assay (IC50value: 3.12μM). Because of its potential for inhibiting STAT3 activation,A. brevipedunculatacould be considered a source of compounds of pharmaceutical interest.