bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Definition Mapping of Four Spatially Distinct Neutralizing Epitope Clusters on RiVax, a Candidate Ricin Toxin Subunit Vaccine
Authors: Toth Ronald T. , Angalakurthi Siva Krishna , Van Slyke Greta , Vance David J. , Hickey John M. , Joshi Sangeeta B. , Middaugh C. Russell , Volkin David B. , Weis David D. , Mantis Nicholas J.
Published: October 2017

RiVax is a promising recombinant ricin toxin A subunit (RTA) vaccine antigen that has been shown to be safe and immunogenic in humans and effective at protecting rhesus macaques against lethal-dose aerosolized toxin exposure. We previously used a panel of RTA-specific monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) to demonstrate, by competition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), that RiVax elicits similar serum antibody profiles in humans and macaques. However, the MAb binding sites on RiVax have yet to be defined. In this study, we employed hydrogen exchange-mass spectrometry (HX-MS) to localize the epitopes on RiVax recognized by nine toxin-neutralizing MAbs and one nonneutralizing MAb. Based on strong protection from hydrogen exchange, the nine MAbs grouped into four spatially distinct epitope clusters (namely, clusters I to IV). Cluster I MAbs protected RiVax's α-helix B (residues 94 to 107), a protruding immunodominant secondary structure element known to be a target of potent toxin-neutralizing antibodies. Cluster II consisted of two subclusters located on the “back side” (relative to the active site pocket) of RiVax. One subcluster involved α-helix A (residues 14 to 24) and α-helices F-G (residues 184 to 207); the other encompassed β-strand d (residues 62 to 69) and parts of α-helices D-E (154 to 164) and the intervening loop. Cluster III involved α-helices C and G on the front side of RiVax, while cluster IV formed a sash from the front to back of RiVax, spanning strands b, c, and d (residues 35 to 59). Having a high-resolution B cell epitope map of RiVax will enable the development and optimization of competitive serum profiling assays to examine vaccine-induced antibody responses across species.
Progress toward Development of a Vaccine against Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection
Authors: Schleiss Mark R. , Permar Sallie R. , Plotkin Stanley A.
Published: October 2017

A vaccine against congenital human cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a major public health priority. Congenital CMV causes substantial long-term morbidity, particularly sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), in newborns, and the public health impact of this infection on maternal and child health is underrecognized. Although progress toward development of a vaccine has been limited by an incomplete understanding of the correlates of protective immunity for the fetus, knowledge about some of the key components of the maternal immune response necessary for preventing transplacental transmission is accumulating. Moreover, although there have been concerns raised about observations indicating that maternal seropositivity does not fully prevent recurrent maternal CMV infections during pregnancy, it is becoming increasing clear that preconception immunity does confer some measure of protection against both CMV transmission and CMV disease (if transmission occurs) in the newborn infant. Although the immunity to CMV conferred by both infection and vaccination is imperfect, there are encouraging data emerging from clinical trials demonstrating the immunogenicity and potential efficacy of candidate CMV vaccines. In the face of the knowledge that between 20,000 and 30,000 infants are born with congenital CMV in the United States every year, there is an urgent and compelling need to accelerate the pace of vaccine trials. In this minireview, we summarize the status of CMV vaccines in clinical trials and provide a perspective on what would be required for a CMV immunization program to become incorporated into clinical practice.
Orbital trapdoor fractures: different clinical profiles between adult and paediatric patients
Authors: Takahashi Yasuhiro , Sabundayo Maria Suzanne , Miyazaki Hidetaka , Mito Hidenori , Kakizaki Hirohiko
Published: October 2017

Background

To compare clinical findings of orbital trapdoor fractures between adult and paediatric patients.

Methods

Paediatric patients were categorised into two groups by age: children (0–9 years) and adolescents (10–19 years). Adult patients were categorised into two groups by age: early (20–44 years) and middle-late adulthood (≥45 years). Demographic data, ocular and periocular complications, CT findings and binocular single vision field (BSVF) were compared among age groups.

Results

This study included 105 patients (105 sides, 22 children, 59 adolescents, 14 patients in early adulthood and 10 patients in middle-late adulthood). In patients with fractures of the orbital floor and medial wall, both walls presented as trapdoor fractures in paediatric patients, while one wall presented as a non-trapdoor fracture in adult patients (p=0.061). None of the adult patients showed extraocular muscle incarceration, whereas this was present in 8 of 22 children (36.4%) and 7 of 59 adolescents (11.9%) (p=0.005). Hypoesthesia of the infraorbital nerve more frequently occurred in adults (p=0.004). As the preoperative BSVF was larger in adult than in paediatric patients (p=0.007), the percentage of adult patients who underwent surgical reduction of orbital fractures tended to be lower (p=0.058). Postoperative change in BSVF was smaller in adult patients (p=0.005).

Conclusions

Fracture pattern, type of incarcerated tissue and incidence of hypoesthesia of the infraorbital nerve were different between adult and paediatric patients. Adult patients had a larger preoperative BSVF and less need for surgical reduction; however, there was less improvement in postoperative BSVF.
Views and attitudes towards blood donation: a qualitative investigation of Indian non-donors living in England
Authors: Joshi Dhaara , Meakin Richard
Published: October 2017

Objective

To explore the views and attitudes of Indians living in England on blood donation.

Background

In light of the predicted shortages in blood supply, it is vital to consider ways in which to maximise donation rates. These include addressing the issue of lower donation rates among ethnic minorities, including Indians. However research specifically among minority ethnicities in UK is sparse.

Setting

General practice in North London.

Participants

A convenience sample of 12 non-donor Indians living in England.

Methods

This is a qualitative investigation involving semistructured interviews. Themes derived were analysed using thematic framework analysis.

Results

Five key themes emerged from the data, and these concerned participants’ perspectives regarding attitudes towards blood, blood donation as a ‘good thing’, donation disincentives, the recipient matters and the donor matters.

Conclusion

A variety of attitudes were presented, but were generally positive, and blood was conceptualised in a manner previously found to be consistent with donation. However, lack of awareness and accessibility were prominent barriers, indicating the need for improvement in these capacities. In contrast to this, blood was also greatly associated with family and acted as a symbol of kinship: this ‘emotional charge’ often acted to dissuade participants from separating with their blood through donation. Possibly due to this, there was also a strong preference for donated blood to be distributed within the family, as opposed to strangers. This presents a potential barrier to blood donation for some Indians within the current system in which donations are given to unknown recipients.
Are quality improvement collaboratives effective? A systematic review
Authors: Wells Susan , Tamir Orly , Gray Jonathon , Naidoo Dhevaksha , Bekhit Mark , Goldmann Don
Published: October 2017

Background

Quality improvement collaboratives (QIC) have proliferated internationally, but there is little empirical evidence for their effectiveness.

Method

We searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library databases from January 1995 to December 2014. Studies were included if they met the criteria for a QIC intervention and the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organisation of Care (EPOC) minimum study design characteristics for inclusion in a review. We assessed study bias using the EPOC checklist and the quality of the reported intervention using a subset of SQUIRE 1.0 standards.

Results

Of the 220 studies meeting QIC criteria, 64 met EPOC study design standards for inclusion. There were 10 cluster randomised controlled trials, 24 controlled before-after studies and 30 interrupted time series studies. QICs encompassed a broad range of clinical settings, topics and populations ranging from neonates to the elderly. Few reports fully described QIC implementation and methods, intensity of activities, degree of site engagement and important contextual factors. By care setting, an improvement was reported for one or more of the study’s primary effect measures in 83% of the studies (32/39 (82%) hospital based, 17/20 (85%) ambulatory care, 3/4 nursing home and a sole ambulance QIC). Eight studies described persistence of the intervention effect 6 months to 2 years after the end of the collaborative. Collaboratives reporting success generally addressed relatively straightforward aspects of care, had a strong evidence base and noted a clear evidence-practice gap in an accepted clinical pathway or guideline.

Conclusions

QICs have been adopted widely as an approach to shared learning and improvement in healthcare. Overall, the QICs included in this review reported significant improvements in targeted clinical processes and patient outcomes. These reports are encouraging, but most be interpreted cautiously since fewer than a third met established quality and reporting criteria, and publication bias is likely.
Dimple on the shoulder after a ski injury
Authors: Khodaee Morteza , Vidal Armando , Gutierrez Greg
Published: October 2017

Clinical introduction

A 74-year-old woman was brought to the ski clinic shortly after a fall on her left shoulder while skiing. She did not remember the exact fall mechanism. She felt a popping sensation in her left shoulder and was unable to move her left arm due to severe pain. Her medical and social histories were unremarkable. On physical examination, she had a deformity in her left shoulder (figure 1). Her neurovascular examination was intact.

Figure 1

Photograph of the left shoulder on arrival showing an anterior ‘dimple’.

Question

What is the most likely diagnosis of the injury?

An acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) sprain (shoulder separation)

A proximal humerus fracture

A distal clavicle fracture

A posterior glenohumeral dislocation
Using an alumni survey to target improvements in an emergency medicine training programme
Authors: Gaeta Theodore , Mahalingam Gowtham , Pyle Matthew , Dam Aaron , Visconti Annette
Published: October 2017

Introduction

The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) is the governing body responsible for accrediting graduate medical training programme in the USA. The Emergency Medicine Milestones (EM-Milestones) were developed by the ACGME and American Board of Emergency Medicine as a guide and monitoring tool for the knowledge, skills, abilities and experiences to be acquired during training. Alumni surveys have been reported as a valuable resource for training programme to identify areas for improvement; however, there are few studies regarding programme improvement in emergency medicine. We aimed to use the EM-Milestones, adapted as an alumni self-assessment survey, to identify areas for training programme improvement.

Methods

This study was conducted at an urban, academic affiliated, community hospital in New York city with an emergency medicine training programme consisting of 30 residents over 3 years. Alumni of our emergency medicine training programme were sent an EM-Milestones-based self-assessment survey. Participants evaluated their ability in each EM-Milestones subcompetency on a Likert scale. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Response rate was 74% (69/93). Alumni reported achieving the target performance in 5/6 general competencies, with Systems-Based Practice falling below the target performance. The survey further identified 6/23 subcompetencies (Pharmacotherapy, Ultrasound, Wound Management, Patient Safety, Systems-Based Management and Technology) falling below the target performance level.

Discussion

Alumni self-evaluation of competence using the EM-Milestones provides valuable information concerning confidence to practice independently; these data, coupled with regular milestone evaluation of existing trainees, can identify problem areas and provide a blueprint for targeted programme improvement.
SIFD as a novel cause of severe fetal hydrops and neonatal anaemia with iron loading and marked extramedullary haemopoiesis
Authors: Barton Chris , Kausar Sabiha , Kerr Deborah , Bitetti Stefania , Wynn Rob
Published: October 2017

SIFD describes a heritable, syndromic condition characterised principally by sideroblastic anaemia (SA) with immunodeficiency, fevers and developmental delay, arising in mutations within the TRNT1 gene. Other clinical manifestations of SIFD include cardiomyopathy, seizures, sensorineural hearing loss, renal dysfunction, metabolic abnormalities, hepatosplenomegaly and retinitis pigmentosa.

Presentation of SIFD is variable but typically in early childhood with SA or with fever. In this report, we extend the described SIFD phenotype. We describe a kindred in which the index case presented with fetal hydrops, and early neonatal death, and the second child had severe anaemia at delivery. Both cases had prominent extramedullary erythropoiesis and numerous circulating nucleated red blood cells.
Guaranteeing Canadian lamb meat quality using near-infrared spectroscopy on intact rack
Authors: Juárez M. , Horcada A. , Prieto N. , Roberts J.C. , Dugan M.E.R. , López-Campos O. , Uttaro B. , Larsen I.L. , Hosford S. , Galbraith J. , Aalhus J.L.
Published: October 2017

Lamb racks from commercial carcasses were scanned using near-infrared spectroscopy. The prediction accuracies (R2) for meat quality traits were assessed. Prediction accuracy ranged between 0.40 and 0.94. When predicted values were used to classify meat based on quality, 88.7%–95.2% of samples were correctly classified as quality guaranteed.
Review of technical features in underground laboratories
Authors: Ianni Aldo
Published: October 2017

Deep underground laboratories are multidisciplinary research infrastructures. The main feature of these laboratories is the reduced cosmic ray muons flux. This characteristic allows searching for rare events such as proton decay, dark matter particles or neutrino interactions. However, biology in extreme environments and geophysics are also studied underground. A number of ancillary facilities are critical to properly operate low background experiments in these laboratories. In this work we review the main characteristics of deep underground laboratories and discuss a few of the low background facilities.
LINEAR ELECTROMAGNETIC ARRAY ARTIFICIAL MUSCLE DESIGN AND SIMULATION FOR A QUADRUPED ROBOT
Authors: LI JING , ZHANG WEI , ZHANG YANLONG , BAI JING , WANG ZHANXI , QIN XIANSHENG , AI QIANG , WANG HONGBO
Published: October 2017

A linear electromagnetic array-type artificial muscle structure and its biological neural control model are proposed to improve the multiped robot driving performance. From the standpoint of engineering bionics, based on the microstructure of skeletal muscle, the simplified array mode of skeletal muscle and the linear electromagnetic array artificial muscle are proposed. And in order to calculate the output force displacement performance of the artificial muscle actuator, an artificial muscle nerve stimulation conduction control mode is designed by simulating the biological neural control model. Taking a quadruped robot as the application object, the dynamic characteristics of the artificial muscle are simulated and successfully verified.
NOT SO SIMILAR AFTER ALL: EXPLORING THE DIVERSITY OF STRATEGIC ORIENTATIONS FOR INNOVATION
Authors: DENICOLAI STEFANO , ZUCCHELLA ANTONELLA , MORETTI FEDERICO
Published: October 2017

Innovation has gained growing attention in the strategic management field, and — as a strategic orientation — it has been predominantly considered as a homogenous class of differentiated strategic mindsets. This contribution aims at distinguishing different sub-typologies of innovation strategies and validating their profiles and consistency. It explores approaches discussed in the mainstream literature as well as the possibility that other orientations could exist. A cluster analysis outlines four strategic orientations showing differences in terms of competitive drivers, value creation architectures, outsourcing and alliance policies, and managerial processes. Findings offer scholars and practitioners a better understanding of strategic alternatives in pursuing innovation through the identification of systems of consistency among managerial variables — e.g., configuration of the supply chain — thus fostering uniqueness and sustainability of the competitive advantage, and driving managers’ decision. In particular, what really characterised the different innovation strategies here shown is the way they deal with the value chain structure, meaning a key part of the business model.
Transfer of Training: The Known and the Unknown
Authors: Ford J. Kevin , Baldwin Timothy T. , Prasad Joshua
Published: October 2017

Transfer of training is one of the oldest topics of interest to industrial and organizational (I/O) psychologists. Drawing on several meta-analytic studies and recent empirical work, we first synthesize what is now reliably known with respect to the generalization and retention of learned knowledge and skills to work contexts. The second part of our review focuses on what is unknown—the significant gaps in our knowledge where we believe new directions in our research strategies are warranted. We offer three prescriptions: (a) going one step beyond most existing studies to offer greater precision in our specification and measurement of variables and interventions, (b) connecting the dots by focusing on transfer criteria and transfer trajectories, and (c) shifting the operative paradigm of research to examine contemporary learning from a problem-centered perspective. There is ample opportunity to increase the yield on enormous organizational investments in training if transfer scholars and practitioners are fully informed of what is known and prepared to systematically confront the unknown in new and innovative ways.
Relaxin-mediated renal vasodilation in the rat is associated with falls in glomerular blood pressure
Authors: Deng Aihua , Conrad Kirk , Baylis Chris
Published: October 2017

Relaxin (RLX) is a pleiotropic peptide hormone with marked renal vasodilatory actions that are physiologically important during pregnancy. RLX also has potent antifibrotic actions and is being tested therapeutically in various fibrotic diseases, including chronic kidney disease (CKD). Since renal vasodilation may expose the glomerulus to increased blood pressure [glomerular capillary pressure (PGC)], which exacerbates progression of CKD, we assessed the glomerular hemodynamic actions of acute (0.89 µg·100 g body wt−1·h−1 iv over 75 min) and chronic (1.5 µg·100 g body wt−1·h−1 sc) administration of RLX. Both acute and chronic RLX produced marked renal vasodilation and increased renal plasma flow (RPF) in euvolemic, anesthetized male rats. Glomerular filtration rate also increased with RLX, but the magnitude of the rise was much less than the increase in RPF due to concomitant decreases in filtration fraction. The fall in filtration fraction was the result of significant decreases in PGC, despite a slight increase in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) with acute RLX and no net change in MAP with chronic RLX. This fall in PGC occurred because of the “in-series” arrangement of the afferent and efferent arteriolar resistance vessels, which can regulate PGC independently of MAP. With both acute and chronic RLX, efferent arteriolar resistance vessels relaxed to a greater extent than afferent arteriolar resistance vessels, thus producing falls in PGC. Based on this finding, RLX has a beneficial hemodynamic impact on the kidney, which, together with the antifibrotic actions of RLX, suggests a strong therapeutic potential for use in CKD.
Different contributions of primary motor cortex, reticular formation, and spinal cord to fractionated muscle activation
Authors: Zaaimi Boubker , Dean Lauren R. , Baker Stuart N.
Published: October 2017

Coordinated movement requires patterned activation of muscles. In this study, we examined differences in selective activation of primate upper limb muscles by cortical and subcortical regions. Five macaque monkeys were trained to perform a reach and grasp task, and electromyogram (EMG) was recorded from 10 to 24 muscles while weak single-pulse stimuli were delivered through microelectrodes inserted in the motor cortex (M1), reticular formation (RF), or cervical spinal cord (SC). Stimulus intensity was adjusted to a level just above threshold. Stimulus-evoked effects were assessed from averages of rectified EMG. M1, RF, and SC activated 1.5 ± 0.9, 1.9 ± 0.8, and 2.5 ± 1.6 muscles per site (means ± SD); only M1 and SC differed significantly. In between recording sessions, natural muscle activity in the home cage was recorded using a miniature data logger. A novel analysis assessed how well natural activity could be reconstructed by stimulus-evoked responses. This provided two measures: normalized vector length L, reflecting how closely aligned natural and stimulus-evoked activity were, and normalized residual R, measuring the fraction of natural activity not reachable using stimulus-evoked patterns. Average values for M1, RF, and SC were L = 119.1 ± 9.6, 105.9 ± 6.2, and 109.3 ± 8.4% and R = 50.3 ± 4.9, 56.4 ± 3.5, and 51.5 ± 4.8%, respectively. RF was significantly different from M1 and SC on both measurements. RF is thus able to generate an approximation to the motor output with less activation than required by M1 and SC, but M1 and SC are more precise in reaching the exact activation pattern required. Cortical, brainstem, and spinal centers likely play distinct roles, as they cooperate to generate voluntary movements.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Brainstem reticular formation, primary motor cortex, and cervical spinal cord intermediate zone can all activate primate upper limb muscles. However, brainstem output is more efficient but less precise in producing natural patterns of motor output than motor cortex or spinal cord. We suggest that gross muscle synergies from the reticular formation are sculpted and refined by motor cortex and spinal circuits to reach the finely fractionated output characteristic of dexterous primate upper limb movements.
The Variability and Evaluation Method of Recycled Concrete Aggregate Properties
Authors: Zhang Zhiqing , Shen Bozhao , Ren Hui , Wang Jin , Li Shiyun , Liu Hao
Published: October 2017

With the same sources and regeneration techniques, given RA’s properties may display large variations. The same single property index of different sets maybe has a large difference of the whole property. How shall we accurately evaluate the whole property of RA? 8 groups of RAs from pavement and building were used to research the method of evaluating the holistic characteristics of RA. After testing and investigating, the parameters of aggregates were analyzed. The data of physical and mechanical properties show a distinct dispersion and instability; thus, it has been difficult to express the whole characteristics in any single property parameter. The Euclidean distance can express the similarity of samples. The closer the distance, the more similar the property. The standard variance of the whole property Euclidean distances for two types of RA is Sk=7.341 and Sk=2.208, respectively, which shows that the property of building RA has great fluctuation, while pavement RA is more stable. There are certain correlations among the apparent density, water absorption, and crushed value of RAs, and the Mahalanobis distance method can directly evaluate the whole property by using its parameters: mean, variance, and covariance, and it can provide a grade evaluation model for RAs.
Calcium Ionophore, Calcimycin, KillsLeishmaniaPromastigotes by Activating Parasite Nitric Oxide Synthase
Authors: Grekov Igor , Pombinho António R. , Kobets Tatyana , Bartůněk Petr , Lipoldová Marie
Published: October 2017

Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genusLeishmania. There is no vaccine against human leishmaniasis and the treatment of the disease would benefit from a broader spectrum and a higher efficacy of leishmanicidal compounds. We analyzed the leishmanicidal activity and the mechanism of action of the calcium ionophore, calcimycin.L. majorpromastigotes were coincubated with calcimycin and the viability of the cells was assessed using resazurin assay. Calcimycin displayed dose-dependent effect with IC50= 0.16 μM. Analysis of propidium iodide/LDS-751 stained promastigotes revealed that lower concentrations of calcimycin had cytostatic effect and higher concentrations had cytotoxic effect. To establish the mechanism of action of calcimycin, which is known to stimulate activity of mammalian constitutive nitric oxide synthase (NOS), we coincubatedL. majorpromastigotes with calcimycin and selective NOS inhibitors ARL-17477 or L-NNA. Addition of these inhibitors substantially decreased the toxicity of calcimycin toLeishmaniapromastigotes. In doing so, we demonstrated for the first time that calcimycin has a direct leishmanicidal effect onL. majorpromastigotes. Also, we showed thatLeishmaniaconstitutive Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent nitric oxide synthase is involved in the parasite cell death. These data suggest activation ofLeishmanianitric oxide synthase as a new therapeutic approach.
Functional Bowel Disorders Are Associated with a Central Immune Activation
Authors: Farup Per G. , Ueland Thor , Rudi Knut , Lydersen Stian , Hestad Knut
Published: October 2017

Background. Subjects with depression and unexplained neurological symptoms have a high prevalence of gastrointestinal comorbidity probably related to the brain-gut communication. This study explored associations between functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) and inflammatory markers in subjects with these disorders. Methods. The FGID, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), were classified according to the Rome III criteria, and degree of symptoms was assessed with IBS symptom severity score (IBS-SSS). A range of interleukins (IL), chemokines and growth factors, tryptophan, and kynurenine were analysed in serum and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) were analysed in the faeces. The results are reported as partial correlation (pc) and p values. Results. Sixty-six subjects were included. IBS was associated with high levels of tryptophan (p=0.048) and kynurenine (p=0.019) and low level of IL-10 (p=0.047) in the CSF. IBS-SSS was associated with high tumor necrosis factor and low IL-10 in the CSF; pc=0.341 and p=0.009 and pc=−0.299 and p=0.023, respectively. Propionic minus butyric acid in faeces was negatively associated with IL-10 in the CSF (pc=−0.416, p=0.005). Conclusions. FGID were associated with a proinflammatory immune activation in the central nervous system and a disturbed tryptophan metabolism that could have been mediated by the faecal microbiota.
Parallel Changes in Harvey-Bradshaw Index, TNFα, and Intestinal Fatty Acid Binding Protein in Response to Infliximab in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Al-Saffar Anas Kh. , Meijer Carl Hampus , Gannavarapu Venkata Ram , Hall Gustav , Li Yichen , Diaz Tartera Hetzel O. , Lördal Mikael , Ljung Tryggve , Hellström Per M. , Webb Dominic-Luc
Published: October 2017

Intestinal fatty acid binding protein (I-FABP) indicates barrier integrity. Aims: determine if I-FABP is elevated in active Crohn’s disease (CD) and if I-FABP parallels anti-TNFα antibody (infliximab) induced lowering of TNFα and Harvey-Bradshaw Index (HBI) as potential indicator of mucosal healing. I-FABP distribution along human gut was determined. Serum from 10 CD patients collected during first three consecutive infliximab treatments with matched pretreatment and follow-up samples one week after each treatment and corresponding HBI data were analyzed. I-FABP reference interval was established from 31 healthy subjects with normal gut permeability. I-FABP and TNFα were measured by ELISA; CRP was measured by nephelometry. Healthy tissue was used for I-FABP immunohistochemistry. Pretreatment CD patient TNFα was 1.6-fold higher than in-house reference interval, while I-FABP was 2.5-fold higher, which lowered at follow-ups. Combining all 30 infusion/follow-up pairs also revealed changes in I-FABP. HBI followed this pattern; CRP declined gradually. I-FABP was expressed in epithelium of stomach, jejunum, ileum, and colon, with the highest expression in jejunum and ileum. I-FABP is elevated in active CD with a magnitude comparable to TNFα. Parallel infliximab effects on TNFα, HBI, and I-FABP were found. I-FABP may be useful as an intestine selective prognostic marker in CD.
An Analysis of Multiple Criteria and Setups for Bluetooth Smartphone-Based Indoor Localization Mechanism
Authors: Castillo-Cara Manuel , Lovón-Melgarejo Jesús , Bravo-Rocca Gusseppe , Orozco-Barbosa Luis , García-Varea Ismael
Published: October 2017

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) 4.0 beacons will play a major role in the deployment of energy-efficient indoor localization mechanisms. Since BLE4.0 is highly sensitive to fast fading impairments, numerous ongoing studies are currently exploring the use of supervised learning algorithm as an alternative approach to exploit the information provided by the indoor radio maps. Despite the large number of results reported in the literature, there are still many open issues on the performance evaluation of such approach. In this paper, we start by identifying, in a simple setup, the main system parameters to be taken into account on the design of BLE4.0 beacons-based indoor localization mechanisms. In order to shed some light on the evaluation process using supervised learning algorithm, we carry out an in-depth experimental evaluation in terms of the mean localization error, local prediction accuracy, and global prediction accuracy. Based on our results, we argue that, in order to fully assess the capabilities of supervised learning algorithms, it is necessary to include all the three metrics.
Rapid Action of Aldosterone on Protein Levels of Sodium-Hydrogen Exchangers and Protein Kinase C Beta Isoforms in Rat Kidney
Authors: Eiam-Ong Somchit , Chaipipat Mookda , Manotham Krissanapong , Eiam-Ong Somchai
Published: October 2017

Previous in vitro studies demonstrated that aldosterone rapidly activates sodium-hydrogen exchangers 1 and 3 (NHE 1 and 3). In vitro investigations revealed that protein kinase C (PKC) regulates NHE properties. We previously demonstrated that aldosterone rapidly enhances PKCα protein abundance in the rat kidney. There are no reports of renal PKCβ (I and II) protein levels related to the regulation by aldosterone. There are also no in vivo data regarding the rapid effects of aldosterone on renal protein levels of NHE (1 and 3) and PKCβ (I and II), simultaneously. In the current study, rats received normal saline solution or aldosterone (150 μg/kg BW, i.p.). After 30 minutes, abundance and immunoreactivity of these proteins were determined by Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Aldosterone increased NHE1 and NHE3 protein abundance to 152% and 134%, respectively (P<0.05). PKCβI protein level was enhanced by 30%, whereas PKCβII declined slightly. Aldosterone increased NHE protein expression mostly in the medulla. PKCβI immunostaining intensity was increased in the glomeruli, renal vasculature, and thin limb of the loop of Henle, while PKCβII was reduced. This is the first in vivo study to simultaneously demonstrate that aldosterone rapidly elevates PKCβI and NHE (1 and 3) protein abundance in the rat kidney. Aldosterone-induced NHE (1 and 3) protein levels may be related to PKCβI activation.
Traumatic Haemorrhagic Cervical Lymphadenopathy with Underlying Infectious Mononucleosis
Authors: Rahmani George , Power Sarah
Published: October 2017

A 16-year-old male presented to the Emergency Department with a painful 3 × 3 cm left-sided neck swelling six hours following blunt trauma to the neck from a heavy swinging door. A CT angiogram was performed which revealed a large haemorrhagic lymph node as well as generalised cervical lymphadenopathy. The patient was eventually diagnosed with infectious mononucleosis. This case report describes a rare case of traumatic haemorrhagic cervical lymphadenopathy with an underlying diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis.
The Jump Size Distribution of the Commodity Spot Price and Its Effect on Futures and Option Prices
Authors: Gómez-Valle L. , Habibilashkary Z. , Martínez-Rodríguez J.
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we analyze the role of the jump size distribution in the US natural gas prices when valuing natural gas futures traded at New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) and we observe that a jump-diffusion model always provides lower errors than a diffusion model. Moreover, we also show that although the Normal distribution offers lower errors for short maturities, the Exponential distribution is quite accurate for long maturities. We also price natural gas options and we see that, in general, the model with the Normal jump size distribution underprices these options with respect to the Exponential distribution. Finally, we obtain the futures risk premia in both cases and we observe that for long maturities the term structure of the risk premia is negative. Moreover, the Exponential distribution provides the highest premia in absolute value.
Deterministic and Stochastic Study for an Infected Computer Network Model Powered by a System of Antivirus Programs
Authors: El Ansari Youness , El Myr Ali , Omari Lahcen
Published: October 2017

We investigate the various conditions that control the extinction and stability of a nonlinear mathematical spread model with stochastic perturbations. This model describes the spread of viruses into an infected computer network which is powered by a system of antivirus software. The system is analyzed by using the stability theory of stochastic differential equations and the computer simulations. First, we study the global stability of the virus-free equilibrium state and the virus-epidemic equilibrium state. Furthermore, we use the Itô formula and some other theoretical theorems of stochastic differential equation to discuss the extinction and the stationary distribution of our system. The analysis gives a sufficient condition for the infection to be extinct (i.e., the number of viruses tends exponentially to zero). The ergodicity of the solution and the stationary distribution can be obtained if the basic reproduction number Rp is bigger than 1, and the intensities of stochastic fluctuations are small enough. Numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate the theoretical results.
Effects of Heating Rate on the Dynamic Tensile Mechanical Properties of Coal Sandstone during Thermal Treatment
Authors: Li Ming , Mao Xianbiao , Pu Hai , Chen Yanlong , Wu Yu , Zhang Lianying
Published: October 2017

The effects of coal layered combustion and the heat injection rate on adjacent rock were examined in the process of underground coal gasification and coal-bed methane mining. Dynamic Brazilian disk tests were conducted on coal sandstone at 800°C and slow cooling from different heating rates by means of a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) test system. It was discovered that thermal conditions had significant effects on the physical and mechanical properties of the sandstone including longitudinal wave velocity, density, and dynamic linear tensile strength; as the heating rates increased, the thermal expansion of the sandstone was enhanced and the damage degree increased. Compared with sandstone at ambient temperature, the fracture process of heat-treated sandstone was more complicated. After thermal treatment, the specimen had a large crack in the center and cracks on both sides caused by loading; the original cracks grew and mineral particle cracks, internal pore geometry, and other defects gradually appeared. With increasing heating rates, the microscopic fracture mode transformed from ductile fracture to subbrittle fracture. It was concluded that changes in the macroscopic mechanical properties of the sandstone were result from changes in the composition and microstructure.
Bilateral Tubal Pregnancy without Known Risk Factor
Authors: Zamané Hyacinthe , Yameogo Barnabé , Kain Paul Dantola , Kaboré François Gueswendé Xavier , Sawadogo Yobi Alexis , Kiemtoré Sibraogo , Kaboré Sidbewenné Yacinthe , Thiéba Blandine Bonané
Published: October 2017

Spontaneous bilateral ectopic gestation is very rare. The authors report a case diagnosed and taken care of at Yalgado Ouedraogo Teaching Hospital, Ouagadougou. It was a 30-year-old patient with no known pathological history. She had presented at the obstetric emergencies with a state of hypovolemic shock by haemoperitoneum with digestive disorders, pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, and a mention of delayed menstruation. The ultrasound coupled with the urinary immunological pregnancy test confirmed the diagnosis of ruptured ectopic pregnancy and a bilateral form was suspected. A laparotomy in emergency confirmed the diagnosis of bilateral ectopic gestation with a right ampullary unruptured pregnancy and a left isthmic ruptured gestation. A bilateral salpingectomy was performed and counseling was made for the use of medical help of procreation in case of future need of pregnancy.
The NIMO Scandinavian Study: A Prospective Observational Study of Iron Isomaltoside Treatment in Patients with Iron Deficiency
Authors: Frigstad Svein Oskar , Haaber Anne , Bajor Antal , Fallingborg Jan , Hammarlund Per , Bonderup Ole K. , Blom Håkan , Rannem Terje , Hellström Per M.
Published: October 2017

Background. Intravenous iron allows for efficient and well-tolerated treatment in iron deficiency and is routinely used in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Objective. The aims of this study were to determine the probability of relapse of iron deficiency over time and to investigate treatment routine, effectiveness, and safety of iron isomaltoside. Methods. A total of 282 patients treated with iron isomaltoside were observed for two treatments or a minimum of one year. Results. Out of 282 patients, 82 had Crohn’s disease and 67 had ulcerative colitis. Another 133 patients had chronic blood loss, malabsorption, or malignancy. Patients who received an iron isomaltoside dose above 1000 mg had a 65% lower probability of needing retreatment compared with those given 1000 mg. A clinically significant treatment response was shown, but in 71/191 (37%) of patients, anaemia was not corrected. The mean dose given was 1100 mg, lower than the calculated total iron need of 1481 mg. Adverse drug reactions were reported in 4% of patients. Conclusion. Iron isomaltoside is effective with a good safety profile, and high doses reduce the need for retreatment over time. Several patients were anaemic after treatment, indicating that doses were inadequate for full iron correction. This trial is registered with NCT01900197.
Using BIB-SEM Imaging for Permeability Prediction in Heterogeneous Shales
Authors: Sinn C. J. A. , Klaver J. , Fink R. , Jiang M. , Schmatz J. , Littke R. , Urai J. L.
Published: October 2017

Organic-rich shale samples from a lacustrine sedimentary sequence of the Newark Basin (New Jersey, USA) are investigated by combining Broad Ion Beam polishing with Scanning Electron Microscopy (BIB-SEM). We model permeability from this 2D data and compare our results with measured petrophysical properties. Three samples with total organic carbon (TOC) contents ranging from 0.7% to 2.9% and permeabilities ranging from 4 to 160 nD are selected. Pore space is imaged at high resolution (at 20,000x magnification) and segmented from representative BIB-SEM maps. Modeled permeabilities, derived using the capillary tube model (CTM) on segmented pores, range from 2.3 nD to 310 nD and are relatively close to measured intrinsic permeabilities. SEM-visible porosities range from 0.1% to 1.8% increasing with TOC, in agreement with our measurements. The CTM predicts permeability correctly within one order of magnitude. The results of this work demonstrate the potential of 2D BIB-SEM for calculating transport properties of heterogeneous shales.
A Two‐Step Global Maximum Error Controller‐Based TPWL MOR with POD Basis Vectors and Its Applications to MEMS
Authors: Liu Ying , Wang Xiaodong
Published: October 2017

In our previous study, we have proposed a linearization point (LP) selection method based on a global maximum error controller for the trajectory piecewise‐linear (TPWL) method. It has been demonstrated that this method has many advantages over other existing methods. In this paper, a more efficient version of this method is presented, which introduces a preliminary LP selection procedure and constructs projection matrix by the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) method. Compared with the original method, the improved method takes much less time for extracting a reduced‐order model (ROM) of similar quality and gets some other benefits (such as being easier to implement, having lower memory requirement, and enhanced flexibility). The effectiveness of the new method is fully demonstrated by a diode transmission line RLC circuit. And then, the method is applied to three more complicated microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices, which are a micromachined switch, an electrostatic micropump diaphragm, and a thermomechanical in‐plane microactuator.
Isometric Tunnel Placement in Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction with Single CT Scan
Authors: Kholinne Erica , Zulkarnain Rizki Fajar , Adikrishna Arnold , Zhu Bin , Hong Han Pyo , Jeon In-Ho
Published: October 2017

Background. Isometric tunnel placement for anterior bundle of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) reconstruction is mandatory for successful surgery. Purpose. This study aimed to demonstrate a useful method for identifying isometric tunnel placement using a single computed tomography (CT) scan. Study Design. Descriptive Laboratory Study. Methods. Five normal elbows were scanned at 4 different flexion angles at 45° increment. Three-dimensional models were analyzed using 2 different approaches: single and multiple CT scans methods. Ligament footprints in the humerus and the ulna were registered. Ligament length and isometric points were defined. The locations of the isometric points were imported into both methods to be compared. Results. There was no significant difference between 2 methods in calculating the length in every zone. There was also no significant difference in determining isometric ligament’s origin point, which is located approximately 18.2±4.0 mm and 18.4±2.9 mm for single and multiple CT, respectively, measured inferolaterally from medial epicondyle. Conclusions. A solid preoperative plan is critical when predicting tunnel locations due to the difficulty in finding isometric points and the individuality of optimal bone tunnel locations. Using single CT scan, optimal locations can be predicted with the same accuracy as a multiple CT scans with less radiation exposure.
Acute Exposure to Cigarette Smoking Followed by Myocardial Infarction Aggravates Renal Damage in an In Vivo Mouse Model
Authors: Kobeissy Firas , Shaito Abdullah , Kaplan Abdullah , Baki Lama , Hayek Hassan , Dagher-Hamalian Carole , Nehme Ali , Ghali Rana , Abidi Emna , Husari Ahmad , Zeidan Asad , Zouein Fouad A. , Zibara Kazem
Published: October 2017

Cigarette smoking (S) is a risk factor for progressive chronic kidney disease, renal dysfunction, and renal failure. In this study, the effect of smoking on kidney function was investigated in a mouse model of myocardial infarction (MI) using 4 groups: control (C), smoking (S), MI, and S+MI. Histological analysis of S+MI group showed alterations in kidney structure including swelling of the proximal convoluted tubules (PCTs), thinning of the epithelial lining, focal loss of the brush border of PCTs, and patchy glomerular retraction. Molecular analysis revealed that nephrin expression was significantly reduced in the S+MI group, whereas sodium‐hydrogen exchanger‐1 (NHE‐1) was significantly increased, suggesting altered glomerular filtration and kidney functions. Moreover, S+MI group, but not S alone, showed a significant increase in the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and fibrotic proteins fibronectin (FN) and α‐smooth muscle actin (SMA), in comparison to controls, in addition to a significant increase in mRNA levels of IL‐6 and TNF‐α inflammatory markers. Finally, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was significantly accentuated in S+MI group concomitant with a significant increase in NOX‐4 protein levels. In conclusion, smoking aggravates murine acute renal damage caused by MI at the structural and molecular levels by exacerbating renal dysfunction.
Modeling and Error Compensation of Robotic Articulated Arm Coordinate Measuring Machines Using BP Neural Network
Authors: Gao Guanbin , Zhang Hongwei , San Hongjun , Wu Xing , Wang Wen
Published: October 2017

Articulated arm coordinate measuring machine (AACMM) is a specific robotic structural instrument, which uses D-H method for the purpose of kinematic modeling and error compensation. However, it is difficult for the existing error compensation models to describe various factors, which affects the accuracy of AACMM. In this paper, a modeling and error compensation method for AACMM is proposed based on BP Neural Networks. According to the available measurements, the poses of the AACMM are used as the input, and the coordinates of the probe are used as the output of neural network. To avoid tedious training and improve the training efficiency and prediction accuracy, a data acquisition strategy is developed according to the actual measurement behavior in the joint space. A neural network model is proposed and analyzed by using the data generated via Monte-Carlo method in simulations. The structure and parameter settings of neural network are optimized to improve the prediction accuracy and training speed. Experimental studies have been conducted to verify the proposed algorithm with neural network compensation, which shows that 97% error of the AACMM can be eliminated after compensation. These experimental results have revealed the effectiveness of the proposed modeling and compensation method for AACMM.
HRR Profiling on Integrated Radar‐Communication Systems Using OFDM‐PCSF Signals
Authors: Tian Xuanxuan , Zhang Tingting , Zhang Qinyu , Song Zhaohui
Published: October 2017

In order to improve both the transmission data rate and the range resolution simultaneously in integrated radar‐communication (RadCom) systems, orthogonal frequency‐division multiplexing with phase‐coded and stepped‐frequency (OFDM‐PCSF) waveform is proposed. A corresponding high resolution range (HRR) profile generation method is also presented. We first perform OFDM‐PCSF waveform design by combining the intrapulse phase coding with the interpulse stepped‐frequency modulation. We then give the ambiguity function (AF) based on the presented waveforms. Then, the synthetic range profile (SRP) processing to achieve HRR performance is analyzed. Theoretical analysis and simulation results show that the proposed methods can achieve HRR profiles of the targets and high data rate transmissions, while a relative low computational complexity can be achieved.