bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current epidemiology of cerebrospinal fluid shunt surgery in the UK and Ireland (2004–2013)
Authors: Fernández-Méndez Rocío , Richards Hugh K , Seeley Helen M , Pickard John D , Joannides Alexis J
Published: March 2019

Objectives

To determine current epidemiology and clinical characteristics of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt surgery, including revisions.

Methods

A retrospective, multicentre, registry-based study was conducted based on 10 years’ data from the UK Shunt Registry, including primary and revision shunting procedures reported between 2004 and 2013. Incidence rates of primary shunts, descriptive statistics and shunt revision rates were calculated stratified by age group, geographical region and year of operation.

Results

41 036 procedures in 26 545 patients were submitted during the study period, including 3002 infants, 4389 children and 18 668 adults. Procedures included 20 947 (51.0%) primary shunt insertions in 20 947 patients, and 20 089 (49.0%) revision procedures. Incidence rates of primary shunt insertions for infants, children and adults were 39.5, 2.4 and 3.5 shunts per 100 000 person-years, respectively. These varied by geographical subregion and year of operation. The most common underlying diagnoses were perinatal intraventricular haemorrhage (35.3%) and malformations (33.9%) in infants, tumours (40.5%) and malformations (16.3%) in children, and tumours (24.6%), post-haemorrhagic hydrocephalus (16.2%) and idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (14.2%) in adults. Ninety-day revision rates were 21.9%, 18.6% and 12.8% among infants, children and adults, respectively, while first-year revision rates were 31.0%, 25.2% and 17.4%. The main reasons for revision were underdrainage and infection, but overdrainage and mechanical failure continue to pose problems.

Conclusions

Our report informs patients, carers, clinicians, providers and commissioners of healthcare, researchers and industry of the current epidemiology of shunting for CSF disorders, including the potential risks of complications and frequency of revision.
Echocardiographic wall motion abnormalities in patients with stroke may warrant cardiac evaluation
Authors: Yaghi Shadi , Chang Andrew D , Ricci Brittany A , MacGrory Brian , Cutting Shawna , Burton Tina , Dakay Katarina , McTaggart Ryan , Jayaraman Mahesh V , Merkler Alexander E , Reznik Michael , Lerario Michael , Gupta Ajay , Mehanna Emile , Song Christopher , Seiffge David J , De Marchis Gian Marco , Paciaroni Maurizio , Kamel Hooman , Elkind Mitchell S V , Furie Karen L
Published: March 2019

Background

The aetiology of wall motion abnormalities (WMA) in patients with ischaemic stroke is unclear. We hypothesised that WMAs on transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in the setting of ischaemic stroke mostly reflect pre-existing coronary heart disease rather than simply an isolated neurocardiogenic phenomenon.

Methods

Data were retrospectively abstracted from a prospective ischaemic stroke database over 18 months and included patients with ischaemic stroke who underwent a TTE. Coronary artery disease was defined as history of myocardial infarction (MI), coronary intervention or ECG evidence of prior MI. The presence (vs absence) of WMA was abstracted. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the association between coronary artery disease and WMA in models adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

We identified 1044 patients who met inclusion criteria; 139 (13.3%, 95% CI 11.2% to 15.4%) had evidence of WMA of whom only 23 (16.6%, 95% CI 10.4% to 22.8%) had no history of heart disease or ECG evidence of prior MI. Among these 23 patients, 12 had a follow-up TTE after the stroke and WMA persisted in 92.7% (11/12) of patients. In fully adjusted models, factors associated with WMA were older age (OR per year increase 1.03, 95% 1.01 to 1.05, p=0.009), congestive heart failure (OR 4.44, 95% CI 2.39 to 8.33, p<0.001), history of coronary heart disease or ECG evidence prior MI (OR 27.03, 95% CI 14.93 to 50.0, p<0.001) and elevated serum troponin levels (OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.06 to 3.75, p=0.031).

Conclusion

In patients with ischaemic stroke, WMA on TTE may reflect underlying cardiac disease and further cardiac evaluation may be considered.
Variability of the antibacterial potential among analogue diterpenes against Gram-positive bacteria: considerations on the structure–activity relationship
Authors: Soares Ana Carolina Ferreira , Matos Priscilla Mendonça , Dias Herbert Júnior , Aguiar Gabriela de Paula , dos Santos Eliene Silvério , Martins Carlos Henrique Gomes , Veneziani Rodrigo Cássio Sola , Ambrósio Sérgio Ricardo , Heleno Vladimir Constantino Gomes
Published: March 2019

The search for new antibacterial agents and a better comprehension of substances with antimicrobial behavior is mandatory nowadays due to the serious public health problem of infection diseases. In the present work, 30 diterpenes were studied, with 2 natural derivatives, named ent-16-kauren-19-oic acid and ent-pimara-8(14),15-dien-19-oic acid, and 28 semi-synthetic derivatives. The natural diterpenes were isolated from Mikania glomerata and Viguiera arenaria, respectively. All diterpenes were submitted to antimicrobial assays against six different Gram-positive microorganisms to better understand the structure–activity relationship of antimicrobial diterpenes. The semi-synthetic derivatives were all obtained from the two natural derivatives by structural modifications, mainly esterification reactions. Both natural derivatives, together with the derivative ent-8(14)-pimaren-19-oic acid, displayed the most relevant antibacterial activities, with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values that were less than 10 μg mL–1 for most pathogens; thus, they were considered promising antimicrobial agents. Moreover, in light of the hypothesis of Urzúa and colleagues, several considerations about the structure–activity relationship of antimicrobial diterpenes could be stated.
Survival outcome patterns revealed by deploying advanced tags in quantity: Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) survivals after release from trawl catches through expedited sorting
Authors: Rose Craig S. , Nielsen Julie K. , Gauvin John R. , Loher Timothy , Sethi Suresh A. , Seitz Andrew C. , Courtney Michael B. , Drobny Paige
Published: March 2019

Bycatch of Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) limits many trawl fisheries in Alaska and greatly concerns stakeholders from local communities and fisheries that rely on Pacific halibut. To reduce Pacific halibut mortality, trawlers in the Bering Sea that target flatfish have been developing expedited release procedures to sort Pacific halibut from catches earlier than current regulations allow, while continuing accurate bycatch accounting. We studied survival rates of released Pacific halibut from three trawlers by deploying accelerometer-equipped pop-up satellite archival tags (PSATs) on 160 fish handled under expedited procedures. PSATs recorded and transmitted two metrics indicating swimming activity every 2 h while attached to the fish (for up to 60 days). Analysis of the resulting survival outcomes largely validated current survival-estimation methods, based on structured viability assessments, and found that longer fish length, shorter duration of air exposure, and shorter duration of trawl tow improved predicted Pacific halibut survival. Differences in these results were detected among vessel trips and species targeted by trawling. PSATs provided detailed data from nearly all tagged fish, while exposing fish to conditions experienced by normal releases.
An experimental study on wearing of conical picks interacting with rock
Authors: Fan Qiuxia , Zhang Qianqian , Liu Guirong , Li Xin , Jia Wei , Guo Zhiwei , Han Ruimin
Published: March 2019

Wearing of conical picks on a coal mining machine and roadheaders are investigated experimentally using a full-scale rotary cutting machine. This study considers three types of conical picks with different tip materials to examine the effects of wear resistance of conical picks and wear characteristics in response to cutting load. The influence of pick wear on the cutting load and pick tip temperature are analyzed, thereby providing an experimental-based guideline for reducing pick wear. The results indicate that the cemented carbide pick has the best wear resistance among the three kinds of picks studied, and the pick life can be significantly extended for picks with a wear-resistant coating surface. It is also found that pick wear has the greatest influence on the normal force. Thermal fatigue and overloading are two factors that cause pick wear failure. The results can also be used to design the conical pick with wear-resistant coating and to validate the numerical models.
Pedestrian choice behavior analysis and simulation of ticket gate machine in rail transit station
Authors: Li Yongxing , Wang David Z.W. , Chen Yanyan , Song Chengcheng , Jia Hongfei , Lin Yu
Published: March 2019

Considering pedestrian preferences for the minimum distance, the minimum number of queuing pedestrians and the shortest estimated time, three pedestrian choice strategies of ticket gate machine are proposed. Pedestrian choice strategies of ticket gate machine are added into pedestrian simulation model which is based on cellular automata, and pedestrian choice behavior simulation model of ticket gate machine is obtained. On the platform of MATLAB simulation software, pedestrian choice behavior is simulated. Simulation results indicate that choice strategies of ticket gate machine proposed in this paper describe pedestrian choice behavior well, and it needs to consider the ratio of bidirectional pedestrian generation rate in the process of setting ticket gate machines in the bidirectional passage.
Linear stability of Mandal–Sengupta–Wadia black holes
Authors: Gürsel H. , Tokgöz G. , Sakallı İ.
Published: March 2019

In this paper, the linear stability of static Mandal–Sengupta–Wadia (MSW) black holes in (2 + 1)-dimensional gravity against circularly symmetric perturbations is studied. Our analysis only applies to non-extremal configurations, thus leaving out the case of the extremal (2 + 1) MSW solution. The associated fields are assumed to have small perturbations in these static backgrounds. We then consider the dilaton equation and specific components of the linearized Einstein equations. The resulting effective Klein–Gordon equation is reduced to the Schrödinger-like wave equation with the associated effective potential. Finally, it is shown that MSW black holes are stable against the small time-dependent perturbations.
PORE STRUCTURE CHARACTERIZATION FOR A CONTINENTAL LACUSTRINE SHALE PARASEQUENCE BASED ON FRACTAL THEORY
Authors: ZHANG LEI , ZHANG XUEJUAN , CHAI HAO , LI YAOCAI , ZHOU YONGJIE
Published: March 2019

Fractal dimension is an important parameter in the evaluation of tight reservoirs. For an outcrop section of the Nenjiang formation in the Songliao Basin, China, the pore structure and pore fractal characteristics of shale parasequences were investigated using fractal theory. In addition, factors causing pore structure changes were analyzed using the results of low-temperature nitrogen adsorption and scanning electron microscope (SEM) experiments. Conducive to gas migration and secondary pores development such as dissolution, results showed that nanoscale pores dominated by fracture-like morphology and consequent good internal connectivity were observed in each pore size section within the target layer. Each parasequence is characterized by a sequential upward decrease of average pore size and an upward increase of total pore volume, with an increasing number of pores from 2[Formula: see text]nm to 50[Formula: see text]nm. Pores are isolated from each other, with poor connectivity and relatively complex composition of brittle minerals and clay minerals. Main components of the brittle minerals, quartz and feldspar, occur in 20–50% and higher clay mineral content ranging from 50% to 70%. In the parasequence cycle, clay mineral gradually decreases while the brittle mineral content increases. Fractal dimension is negatively correlated with clay mineral content and positively correlated with brittle mineral (quartz and feldspar) content. The fractal dimension calculated by the imaging method and the FHH method shows an upward increasing tendency in each of the parasequence cycles. This is as a result of different phenomena, varied sediment hydrodynamic forces leading to particle size differences and increased brittle minerals resulting in microcracks, therefore, the fractal dimension of the large pores (imaging method) increases upward in the parasequence. Simultaneously, with increased content and accompanied dissolution of brittle minerals causing an increase of small pores from base to top of the parasequence, the fractal dimension of the small pores (FHH method) grows.
Linear perturbations of the Wigner distribution and the Cohen class
Authors: Cordero Elena , Trapasso S. Ivan
Published: March 2019

The Wigner distribution is a milestone of Time–frequency Analysis. In order to cope with its drawbacks while preserving the desirable features that made it so popular, several kinds of modifications have been proposed. This contribution fits into this perspective. We introduce a family of phase-space representations of Wigner type associated with invertible matrices and explore their general properties. As a main result, we provide a characterization for the Cohen’s class [L. Cohen, Generalized phase-space distribution functions, J. Math. Phys. 7 (1996) 781–786; Time–frequency Analysis (Prentice Hall, New Jersey, 1995)]. This feature suggests to interpret this family of representations as linear perturbations of the Wigner distribution. We show which of its properties survive under linear perturbations and which ones are truly distinctive of its central role.
A new type of quaternionic frame in ℝ4
Authors: Aksoyak Ferdağ Kahraman
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we obtain a new version of Serret-Frenet formulae for quaternionic curve in [Formula: see text] by using a method similar to the method given by Bharathi and Nagaraj and called it Type 2-Quaternionic Frame. Also, we give an application of this new type of the quaternionic frame by an example.
Time-course data prediction for repeatedly measured gene expression
Authors: Bhattacharjee Atanu , Vishwakarma Gajendra K.
Published: March 2019

Variability in time course gene expression data is a natural phenomenon. The intention of this work is to predict the future time point data through observed sample data point. The Bayesian inference is carried to serve the objective. A total of 6 replicates 3 time point’s data of 218 genes expression is adopted to illustrate the method. The estimates are found consistent with HPD interval to predict the future time point gene expression value. This proposed method can be adopted in other gene expression data setup to predict the future time course data.
Facile and green synthesis of amino-functionalized carbon nanodots for biomedical applications
Authors: Gao Zhongyan , Ding Qiang , Diao Qizhi , Guan Zhongying , Liu Biqiong
Published: March 2019

Considering the high interests and concerns in regards to quantum dots (QDs), their properties and applications, this paper presents highly photoluminescent amino-functionalized carbon QDs which were prepared via a simple one-step method developed directly from pine needle. They were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, photoluminescence (PL), UV-Vis diffused reflectance spectra, transmission electron microscope and scanning electron microscopy. These carbon QDs show strong and stable PL, which is dependent on excitation wavelength. The intense PL under longer excitation wavelength and excellent bioactivities suggest they can be used for biomedical applications due to its high photostability and biocompatibility.
Listwaenitization and enrichment of precious metals in the hydrothermal mineralization zones of serpentinites in Sugeçer-Van (Eastern Anatolia, Turkey)
Authors: Üner Tijen
Published: March 2019

An ophiolitic complex containing hydrothermally altered serpentinized ultramafic rocks was studied in an area on the eastern side of Lake Van near the village of Sugeçer, Eastern Anatolia. Field observations and petrographic and geochemical analyses clearly showed that the serpentinites were altered to listwaenites via silicification and carbonatization. The listwaenites were classified as type-I and type-II listwaenites based on their mineral composition. The type-I listwaenites contained carbonate minerals, rare serpentine minerals, chromite and mariposite, whereas the type-II listwaenites contained mainly silicate minerals. The listwaenites were enriched in Au, As, Cu, Ni and Co relative to the serpentinites. The listwaenites also showed chondrite-normalized enrichment in light rare earth elements and depletion in heavy rare earth elements. The effects of tectonism were widely observed in the study area. Mineral enrichment in the Sugeçer region was shown to be associated with the transport of minerals by hydrothermal fluids under the influence of tectonism.
Linking natural fractures to karst cave development: a case study combining drone imagery, a natural cave network and numerical modelling
Authors: Boersma Quinten , Prabhakaran Rahul , Bezerra Francisco Hilario , Bertotti Giovanni
Published: March 2019

In carbonate rocks, channelized fluid flow through fracture conduits can result in the development of large and connected karst networks. These cavity systems have been found in multiple hydrocarbon and geothermal reservoirs, and are often associated with high-permeability zones, but also pose significant challenges in drilling and reservoir management. Here, we expand on the observed interplay between fractures, fluid flow and large cave systems, using outcrop analysis, drone imagery and fluid-flow modelling. The studied carbonate rocks are heavily fractured and are part of the Salitre Formation (750–650 Ma), located in central Bahia (NE Brazil). Firstly, the fracture and cave network data show a similar geometry, and both systems depict three main orientations, namely; NNE–SSW, NW–SE and ESE–WNW. Moreover, the two datasets are dominated by the longer NNE–SSW features. These observed similarities suggest that the fractures and caves are related. The presented numerical results further acknowledge this observed correlation. These results show that open fractures act as the main fluid-flow conduits, with the aperture model defining the fracture-controlled flow contribution. Furthermore, the performed modelling highlights that geometrical features such as length, orientation and connectivity play an important role in the preferred flow orientations.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Naturally Fractured Reservoirs collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/naturally-fractured-reservoirs
Adaptive Behavior Modeling in Logistic Systems with Agents and Dynamic Graphs
Authors: Démare Thibaut , Bertelle Cyrille , Dutot Antoine , Fournier Dominique
Published: March 2019

Inside a logistic system, actors of the logistics have to interact to manage a coherent flow of goods. They also must deal with the constraints of their environment. The article’s first goal is to study how macro properties (such as global performance) emerge from the dynamic and local behaviors of actors and the structure of the territory. The second goal is to understand which local parameters affect these macro properties. A multi-scale approach made of an agent-based model coupled with dynamic graphs describes the system’s components, including actors and the transportation network. Adaptive behaviors are implemented in this model (with data about the Seine axis) to highlight the system’s dynamics. Agent strategies are evolving according to traffic dynamics and disruptions. This logistic system simulator has the capacity to exhibit large-scale evolution of territorial behavior and efficiency face to various scenarios of local agent behaviors.
Primary Peritoneal Cancer Two Decades after a Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy
Authors: Rodowa Melinda , Salehi Amir H. , McGee Jacob
Published: March 2019

Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO) is increasingly employed as a risk-reducing strategy for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). We report the third case of a patient developing primary peritoneal cancer two decades after a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. This 66-year-old female underwent a hysterectomy for pelvic pain at age 28 and a subsequent bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO) at age of 45 for a pelvic mass. Presenting with a 6-month history of increasing abdominal girth, decreased energy, and a reduction in appetite, she was consented for a unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, and cytoreductive surgery. Pathology specimens revealed a high grade metastatic papillary serous carcinoma consistent with a primary gynecologic origin. It is unlikely that an occult malignancy was missed at the time of pathologic assessment following her previous BSO; therefore it provides evidence that primary peritoneal cancers can arise through the malignant transformation of benign endosalpingiosis.
Healthcare Utilization and Morbidity among Adolescents with ADHD in Children Aged 11-17 Years, NHIS, 2017
Authors: Wiener R. Constance , Waters Christopher , Bhandari Ruchi , Shockey Alcinda K. Trickett
Published: March 2019

Purpose. Children with ADHD have known behaviors of hyperactivity and impulsivity which may result in adverse outcomes. The purpose of this study is to examine the association of serious adverse outcomes (emergency department visits within the previous year) in preadolescents and adolescents with ADHD as compared with preadolescents and adolescents without ADHD. Method. The researchers conducted a cross-sectional, secondary data analysis of National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) 2017 data concerning 2,965 children (>11 to 17 years). The NHIS data resulted from face-to-face interviews of a household member selected from a multistage area probability design representing households in the US. Data analyses for this study included Chi-square bivariate analyses and logistic regression analyses. Results. There were 13.2% of children in the sample who had ADHD. Children with ADHD were more likely to be male and non-Hispanic white. They were also more likely to have one or more additional disease or condition excluding ADHD. In adjusted logistic regression analysis on emergency department utilization by ADHD status, the adjusted odds ratio was 1.93 (95%CI: 1.35, 2.74; p = 0.0003) for preadolescents and adolescents with ADHD as compared with preadolescents and adolescents without ADHD. Conclusion. Children with ADHD were more likely to have emergency department utilization than children without ADHD. Preventive medical visits were similar between preadolescent and adolescent children with and without ADHD. Characteristics associated with ADHD may explain the increased need for emergent care. Developing interventions for children with ADHD may decrease emergency department utilization.
Experimental Investigation on Failure Modes and Mechanical Properties of Rock‐Like Specimens with a Grout‐Infilled Flaw under Triaxial Compression
Authors: Le Huilin , Sun Shaorui , Zhu Feng , Fan Haotian
Published: March 2019

Flaws existing in rock mass are one of the main factors resulting in the instability of rock mass. Epoxy resin is often used to reinforce fractured rock mass. However, few researches focused on mechanical properties of the specimens with a resin‐infilled flaw under triaxial compression. Therefore, in this research, epoxy resin was selected as the grouting material, and triaxial compression tests were conducted on the rock‐like specimens with a grout‐infilled flaw having different geometries. This study draws some new conclusions. The high confining pressure suppresses the generation of tensile cracks, and the failure mode changes from tensile‐shear failure to shear failure as the confining pressure increases. Grouting with epoxy resin leads to the improvement of peak strengths of the specimens under triaxial compression. The reinforcement effect of epoxy resin is better for the specimens having a large flaw length and those under a relatively low confining pressure. Grouting with epoxy resin reduces the internal friction angle of the samples but improves their cohesion. This research may provide some useful insights for understanding the mechanical behaviors of grouted rock masses.
C4d Deposition in Fetal Vessels of the Placenta in Neonatal Lupus Syndrome
Authors: Sato Yuichiro , Yamaguchi Tomoko , Muraoka Jyunsuke , Taniguchi Hajime , Kisanuki Atsushi , Maekawa Kazunari , Yamashita Atushi , Aman Murasaki , Kodama Yuki , Sameshima Hiroshi , Asada Yujiro
Published: March 2019

Neonatal lupus syndrome (NLS) is a rare, passively acquired autoimmune syndrome caused by maternal autoantibodies. We describe a case of a newborn with NLS and the accompanying placental findings. A female neonate was born by emergency cesarean delivery due to non-reassuring fetal status at 35 weeks and 3 days. This neonate had congenital erythematous and scar lesions on the face, back, and upper and lower extremities. Maternal and fetal anti-SSA and SSB antibodies were elevated and this baby was diagnosed as NLS. Histologically, the chorionic villi demonstrated capillary shrinkage. An immunohistochemical study revealed complement deposition (C4d) in the capillaries of the villi and umbilical vessels. Our findings suggest that maternal autoantibodies affect the inflammatory response of the fetus through the placenta and that C4d deposition may be useful for diagnosing NLS.
Three-Dimensional Path-Following Control of a Robotic Airship with Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Nie Chunyu , Zheng Zewei , Zhu Ming
Published: March 2019

This paper proposed an adaptive three-dimensional (3D) path-following control design for a robotic airship based on reinforcement learning. The airship 3D path-following control is decomposed into the altitude control and the planar path-following control, and the Markov decision process (MDP) models of the control problems are established, in which the scale of the state space is reduced by parameter simplification and coordinate transformation. To ensure the control adaptability without dependence on an accurate airship dynamic model, a Q-Learning algorithm is directly adopted for learning the action policy of actuator commands, and the controller is trained online based on actual motion. A cerebellar model articulation controller (CMAC) neural network is employed for experience generalization to accelerate the training process. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed controllers can achieve comparable performance to the well-tuned proportion integral differential (PID) controllers and have a more intelligent decision-making ability.
Compact Microstrip-Based Textile Antenna for 802.15.6 WBAN-UWB with Full Ground Plane
Authors: Samal Purna B. , Soh Ping Jack , Zakaria Zahriladha
Published: March 2019

The paper presents the design and investigation of a flexible all-textile antenna operating in the wireless body area network (WBAN) ultrawideband (UWB) specified by the IEEE 802.15.6 standard. The proposed antenna features an innovative and compact UWB radiator on top of the overall structure with a full ground plane on its reverse side. The radiator, which is based on a microstrip patch combined with multiple miniaturization and broadbanding methods, resulted in a simple topology and a compact size of 39 mm×42 mm×3.34 mm (0.51×0.55×0.043λ). In comparison to the literature, the proposed structure is considered to be the most compact microstrip-based textile UWB antenna to date featuring a full ground plane. The choice of the commercial textiles is also made based on cost efficiency, ease of accessibility, and ease of fabrication using simple tools. Meanwhile, the full ground plane enables the antenna operation in the vicinity of the human body with minimal body coupling and radiation towards it, ensuring operational safety. Besides its operation in the mandatory channels of the WBAN-UWB low and high bands, the proposed antenna also operates and preserves its performance in five other optional channels of the high band when placed on the body and under bend conditions of 30° and 60°. The proposed antenna successfully achieved the specific absorption rate below the regulated limit specified by the Federal Communications Commission.
Adaptive Damping of a Double‐Beam Structure Based on Magnetorheological Elastomer
Authors: Szmidt Tomasz , Pisarski Dominik , Konowrocki Robert , Awietjan Stefan , Boczkowska Anna
Published: March 2019

A method of vibration reduction based on activation of an MRE block that couples twin cantilever beams at their free ends is investigated. Four types of magnetorheological elastomers have been manufactured, and their rheological properties in a range of magnetic field intensities are established. Free vibrations of several double‐beam structures with controllable damping members made of these MREs are investigated, and a method of semiactive control of such structures is proposed. The effects of compression of the elastomers and alignment of the magnets used to activate them are reported. The mathematical modeling of the system is verified experimentally.
Approximate Controllability of Fractional Nonlinear Hybrid Differential Systems via Resolvent Operators
Authors: Matar Mohammed M.
Published: March 2019

We obtain sufficient conditions for the approximate controllability of a fractional nonlinear hybrid differential system. The results are obtained by using resolvent and sectorial operators technique via Dhage fixed point theorem.
Hsp90 Inhibitor SNX-2112 Enhances TRAIL-Induced Apoptosis of Human Cervical Cancer Cells via the ROS-Mediated JNK-p53-Autophagy-DR5 Pathway
Authors: Hu Liubing , Wang Yan , Chen Zui , Fu Liangshun , Wang Sheng , Zhang Xinyue , Zhang Pengchao , Lu Xueping , Jie Huiyang , Li Manmei , Wang Yifei , Liu Zhong
Published: March 2019

Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a potent cancer cell apoptosis-inducing factor that can induce apoptosis in a variety of cancer cells. However, resistance to TRAIL in cancer cells is a huge obstacle in creating effective TRAIL-targeted clinical therapies. Thus, agents that can either enhance the effect of TRAIL or overcome its resistance are needed. In this study, we combined TRAIL with SNX-2112, an Hsp90 inhibitor we previously developed, to explore the effect and mechanism that SNX-2112 enhanced TRAIL-induced apoptosis in cervical cancer cells. Our results showed that SNX-2112 markedly enhanced TRAIL-induced cytotoxicity in HeLa cells, and this combination was found to be synergistic. Additionally, we found that SNX-2112 sensitized TRAIL-mediated apoptosis caspase-dependently in TRAIL-resistant HeLa cells. Mechanismly, SNX-2112 downregulated antiapoptosis proteins, including Bcl-2, Bcl-XL, and FLIP, promoted the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and increased the expression levels of p-JNK and p53. ROS scavenger NAC rescued SNX-2112/TRAIL-induced apoptosis and suppressed SNX-2112-induced p-JNK and p53. Moreover, SNX-2112 induced the upregulation of death-receptor DR5 in HeLa cells. The silencing of DR5 by siRNA significantly decreased cell apoptosis by the combined effect of SNX-2112 and TRAIL. In addition, SNX-2112 inhibited the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and induced autophagy in HeLa cells. The blockage of autophagy by bafilomycin A1 or Atg7 siRNA abolished SNX-2112-induced upregulation of DR5. Meanwhile, ROS scavenger NAC, JNK inhibitor SP600125, and p53 inhibitor PFTα were used to verify that autophagy-mediated upregulation of DR5 was regulated by the SNX-2112-stimulated activation of the ROS-JNK-p53 signaling pathway. Thus, the combination of SNX-2112 and TRAIL may provide a novel strategy for the treatment of human cervical cancer by overcoming cellular mechanisms of apoptosis resistance.
Physical Activity and Mobility Differentially Predict Nondemented Executive Function Trajectories: Do Sex and APOE Moderate These Associations?
Authors: Thibeau Sherilyn , McFall G. Peggy , Camicioli Richard , Dixon Roger A.
Published: March 2019

Background: In nondemented aging, higher levels of everyday physical activity (EPA) and mobility performance are associated with better executive function (EF) trajectories. However, these associations may be moderated by both sex and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) genetic risk. Objectives: In a longitudinal study, we investigate sex differences in (a) EPA and mobility effects on EF performance (level) and change (slope) and (b) AD genetic risk moderation of these associations. Methods: The longitudinal design included nondemented adults (n = 532, mean age = 70.4 years, range 53–95) from the Victoria Longitudinal Study. Using structural equation analyses on an EF latent variable, we tested (a) sex moderation and (b) interactive effects of sex and APOE on observed EPA-EF and mobility-EF performance and change relationships. Results: First, we observed independent sex effects for the EPA-EF and mobility-EF predictions. Whereas EPA had a significant effect on EF performance and change only for females, mobility had a significant effect for both sexes. Notably, males with lower mobility levels experienced steeper EF decline than females with lower mobility levels. Second, we observed significant sex × APOE interaction effects. The combination of lower genetic risk and higher EPA benefitted females but not males. In contrast, lower genetic risk and higher mobility benefited both sexes, although male APOE no-risk carriers with lower mobility levels had EF decline patterns that were similar to APOE risk carriers. Conclusions: Longitudinal analyses across a broad band of aging show that sex moderates the effects of both EPA and mobility on EF performance and change. Notably, this moderation occurs differentially across the AD genetic risk status. These results point to a precision health approach to observational and interventional research in which effects of physical activity and mobility on EF trajectories and dementia are examined in the personalized and interactive context of sex and AD risk.
Patient-Reported Outcomes and Quality of Life after Treatment for Choroidal Melanoma
Authors: Damato Bertil , Hope-Stone Laura , Cooper Bruce , Brown Steve , Heimann Heinrich , Dunn Laura
Published: March 2019

Background/Aims: Patients with choroidal melanoma can develop psychological morbidity because of visual disability, pain, facial deformity, and fears of metastatic disease. The aim of this study was to report on the prevalence of symptoms, moods, and well-being after radiotherapy or enucleation for choroidal melanoma and how these outcomes changed over time. Methods: Participants were mailed questionnaires approximately 6 months following treatment, then annually on every anniversary of their treatment. Results: Soon after enucleation, patients experienced visual difficulties because of loss of stereopsis and visual field and were concerned about their appearance and about metastatic disease. After radiotherapy, patients were more concerned about local tumor recurrence and more troubled by diplopia and headache. Over time, visual difficulties diminished after enucleation but increased in patients who had received radiotherapy, with concerns about metastasis, loss of health, and tumor recurrence diminishing in both groups. Anxiety tended to diminish whereas depression increased, especially after enucleation. Emotional well-being improved after both kinds of treatment, whereas functional and physical well-being diminished after enucleation but improved after radiotherapy. Self-reported quality of life diminished equally with both kinds of treatment. Conclusion: The findings of this study should help physicians understand what patients tend to feel after treatment for choroidal melanoma.
Comparative Emergence of Resistance to Clofoctol, Erythromycin, and Amoxicillin against Community-Acquired Bacterial Respiratory Tract Pathogens in Italy
Authors: Scaglione Francesco , Lucini Valeria , Dugnani Silvana , Pani Arianna
Published: March 2019

Due to increasing bacterial resistance and poor availability of new antibiotics, physicians need to use old, still active antibiotics more frequently. In this study, we focused on clo­foctol and aimed to verify the emergence of clofoctol resistance over time. Additionally, the ability of clofoctol to induce resistance under static and dynamic conditions was evaluated. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values measured in pathogens isolated from 1990 to 1995 were compared to those isolated from 2017 to 2018. The behaviour of clofoctol is similar to that of amoxicillin, while erythromycin shows a different behaviour with an increase in MIC. A rapid decline in CFUs with complete eradication at 96 and 120 h in the case of clofoctol and amoxicillin, respectively, was observed in a dynamic in vitro model of a pharmacokinetic simulation. Erythromycin provides a reduction in CFUs of approximately one order of magnitude for up to 72 h, and then re-growth is observed. The MIC trend was observed during 5 days of kinetic simulation. The clofoctol MICs remain almost stable up to 96 h, after which the colonies are no longer detectable. The MICs of amoxicillin show a 2-fold increase starting from 36 h; however, at 120 h the colonies are no longer detectable. The MICs of erythromycin show a progressive increase starting from 72 h and reaching 32-fold. Clofoctol maintains its activity towards the common pathogens of respiratory tract infections and, similarly to amoxicillin, does not induce resistance in a strain of Streptococcus pneumoniae, resulting in complete eradication, while erythromycin was able to select resistant mutants.
Liposomal Eye Spray Is as Effective as Antihistamine Eye Drops in Patients with Allergic Rhinoconjunctivitis Induced by Conjunctival Provocation Testing
Authors: Grzella Anne-Nele , Schleicher Sabine , Shah-Hosseini Kija , Astvatsatourov Anatoli , Raskopf Esther , Allekotte Silke , Mösges Ralph
Published: March 2019

Background: Liposomal eye spray (LS) has been introduced for the treatment of dry eye. Whether LS can also relieve symptoms due to allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (ARC) has not yet been sufficiently investigated. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the onset of action, the reduction of allergy symptoms, and the safety of LS – a nonpharmacological treatment option – compared with those of antihistamine eye drops (AD). Methods: In this open, prospective, controlled, monocenter noninterventional study, adults with ARC received either LS or AD for the relief of eye irritation after a positive conjunctival provocation test (CPT). All patients completed a questionnaire before and after the CPT. Eye irritation was rated on a visual analogue scale (VAS) at 6 time points. Conjunctival redness was analyzed using objective digital analysis based on images taken during the study visit. Results: Data were collected from 40 patients (20 per group). In both groups, 80% of patients perceived an onset of action within 0–2 min after application of LS or AD following the CPT. Relief of eye irritation (as determined by VAS) increased throughout the visit for both groups. In the digital analysis, the mean proportion of redness of the eye decreased from 10.3 to 7.0% for LS and from 10.4 to 6.5% for AD, with the largest difference observed 10 min after application (LS: 8.9%; AD: 6.0%; p = 0.094). Conclusions: LS is a nonpharmacological treatment option for ARC, showing no significant difference or relevant numerical inferiority to AD in any parameter studied. It was generally safe and well tolerated.
The Role of Ancillary Techniques in Salivary Gland Cytopathology Specimens
Authors: Point du Jour Kimberly , Griffith Christopher C.
Published: March 2019

Salivary gland tumor aspiration cytology is a useful preoperative test to guide the most appropriate clinical and surgical management for these patients. Although salivary gland cytology is often useful to distinguish between non-neoplastic lesions, benign neoplasms and malignant neoplasms, there remain many challenges in this area. Specifically, these tumors are uncommon and may have considerable morphologic overlap, especially in the setting of a malignant tumor. This article reviews some of the immunohistochemical and molecular characteristics of more common salivary gland neoplasms that pathologists and cytotechnologists may encounter. When used in combination with morphologic features, such ancillary testing can be useful to further refine the differential diagnosis, more strongly favor a particular entity, or in some instances confidently provide a specific diagnosis.
Transcriptional Changes following Cellular Knockdown of the Schizophrenia Risk Gene SETD1A Are Enriched for Common Variant Association with the Disorder
Authors: Cameron Darren , Blake Derek J.  , Bray Nicholas J. , Hill Matthew J.
Published: March 2019

Loss of function mutations in SETD1A are the first experiment-wide significant findings to emerge from exome sequencing studies of schizophrenia. Although SETD1Ais known to encode a histone methyltransferase, the consequences of reduced SETD1A activity on gene expression in neural cells have, to date, been unknown. To explore transcriptional changes through which genetic perturbation of SETD1A could confer risk for schizophrenia, we have performed genome-wide gene expression profiling of a commonly used human neuroblastoma cell line in which SETD1A expression has been experimentally reduced using RNA interference (RNAi). We identified 1,031 gene expression changes that were significant in two separate RNAi conditions compared with control, including effects on genes of known neurodevelopmental importance such as DCX and DLX5. Genes that were differentially expressed following SETD1A knockdown were enriched for annotation to metabolic pathways, peptidase regulator activity and integrin-mediated regulation of cell adhesion. Moreover, differentially expressed genes were enriched for common variant association with schizophrenia, suggesting a degree of molecular convergence between this rare schizophrenia risk factor and susceptibility variants for the disorder operating more generally.
Permeation Mechanism of Caffeine and Naproxen through in vitro Human Epidermis: Effect of Vehicles and Penetration Enhancers
Authors: Abd Eman , Benson Heather A.E. , Mohammed Yousuf H. , Roberts Michael S. , Grice Jeffrey E.
Published: March 2019

Background/Aims: The mechanisms by which permeation enhancers increase human skin permeation of caffeine and naproxen were assessed in vitro. Methods: Active compound solubility in the vehicles and in the stratum corneum (SC), active compound flux across epidermal membranes and uptake of active and vehicle components into the SC were measured. The effect of vehicle pH on the permeation of caffeine and naproxen was also determined. Results: Oleic acid and eucalyptol significantly enhanced the skin penetration of caffeine and naproxen, compared to aqueous controls. Naproxen permeation was increased from vehicles with pH presenting more ionized naproxen. Caffeine maximum flux enhancement was associated with an increase in caffeine SC solubility and skin diffusivity, whereas for naproxen a penetration enhancer/vehicle-induced increase in solubility in the SC correlated with an increase in maximum flux. SC solubility was related to experimentally determined active uptake, which was in turn predicted by vehicle uptake and active compound solubility in the vehicle. Conclusion: A permeation enhancer-induced alteration in diffusivity, rather than effects on SC solubility, was the main driving force behind increases in permeation flux of the hydrophilic molecule caffeine. For the more the lipophilic molecule naproxen, increased SC solubility drove the increases in permeation flux.
Microvascular Mechanisms of Polyphosphate-Induced Neutrophil-Endothelial Cell Interactions in vivo
Authors: Du Feifei , Wang Yongzhi , Ding Zhiyi , Laschke Matthias W. , Thorlacius Henrik
Published: March 2019

Background: Polyphosphates (PolyPs) have been reported to exert pro-inflammatory effects. However, the molecular mechanisms regulating PolyP-provoked tissue accumulation of leukocytes are not known. The aim of the present investigation was to determine the role of specific adhesion molecules in PolyP-mediated leukocyte recruitment. Methods: PolyPs and TNF-α were intrascrotally administered, and anti-P-selectin, anti-E-selectin, anti-P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1), anti-membrane-activated complex-1 (Mac-1), anti-lymphocyte function antigen-1 (LFA-1), and neutrophil depletion antibodies were injected intravenously or intraperitoneally. Intravital microscopy of the mouse cremaster microcirculation was used to examine leukocyte-endothelium interactions and recruitment in vivo. Results: Intrascrotal injection of PolyPs increased leukocyte accumulation. Depletion of neutrophils abolished PolyP-induced leukocyte-endothelium interactions, indicating that neutrophils were the main leukocyte subtype responding to PolyP challenge. Immunoneutralization of P-selectin and PSGL-1 abolished PolyP-provoked neutrophil rolling, adhesion, and emigration. Moreover, immunoneutralization of Mac-1 and LFA-1 had no impact on neutrophil rolling but markedly reduced neutrophil adhesion and emigration evoked by PolyPs. Conclusion: These results suggest that P-selectin and PSGL-1 exert important roles in PolyP-induced inflammatory cell recruitment by mediating neutrophil rolling. In addition, our data show that Mac-1 and LFA-1 are necessary for supporting PolyP-triggered firm adhesion of neutrophils to microvascular endothelium. These novel findings define specific molecules as potential targets for pharmacological intervention in PolyP-dependent inflammatory diseases.
Proximal Gastric Resection with Posterior Esophago-Gastrostomy and Partial Neo-Fundoplication in the Treatment of Advanced Upper Gastric Carcinoma
Authors: Polkowski Wojciech P. , Mielko Jerzy , Gęca Katarzyna , Rawicz-Pruszyński Karol , Ciseł Bogumiła , Kurylcio Andrzej , Skórzewska Magdalena
Published: March 2019

Background: Proximal gastric resection (PGR) is rarely used in western countries because of frequent postoperative reflux and uncommon diagnosis of early gastric cancer (GC). Objectives: We hypothesized that the PGR with an anti-reflux procedure may be an attractive option even in advanced proximal GC after downstaging with the neo-adjuvant chemotherapy. Method: A novel technique of end-to-side esophago-gastrostomy with the posterior wall of the gastric stump and partial neo-fundoplication to prevent reflux symptoms has been introduced. An observational retrospective study was undertaken to evaluate early and late outcomes of the innovative technique in patients with advanced proximal GC after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Results: Twenty consecutive patients with the diagnosis of loco-regionally advanced GC, localized in the subcardiac region or proximal upper third of the stomach, were selected for the study. Eleven (55%) patients completed preoperative neo-adjuvant chemotherapy. The mean postoperative hospitalization time was 13.3 (± 8.3) days. There was one postoperative in-hospital death due to acute circulatory insufficiency. The mean comprehensive complication index was 11.94 (±24.82). Two patients were diagnosed with a complete pathological response (ypT0N0). Median survival was 41.8 (95% CI 27.9–41.8) months. The 5-year survival rate was 42%. At a median follow-up of 26 months, reflux symptoms were present in 7 (35%) patients who had to use antireflux medication. Anastomotic stenosis was observed in 1 patient during the follow-up. Mean scores of reflux symptoms on medication were not significantly different to those in patients without medication. The Overall Satisfaction Score for patients on medication was 7.57 ± 1.92, whereas it was 8.83 ± 1.34 (p = 0.2; Student t test) for those with no medication. Conclusions: Proximal gastrectomy is feasible and may be safely used in patients with advanced GC after neo-adjuvant chemotherapy with acceptable survival. Posterior esophago-gastrostomy with partial neo-fundoplication reduces the postoperative reflux, while patients with persistent reflux symptoms can be effectively treated with an antireflux therapy.