bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deformation Monitoring System Based on 2D-DIC for Cultural Relics Protection in Museum Environment with Low and Varying Illumination
Authors: Wang Zhiqi , Zhao Jian , Fei Lihua , Jin Yanglei , Zhao Dong
Published: August 2018

Quantifying the condition of large cultural relics, such as marine archaeological shipwreck, is important to verify stability and reliability. Deformation monitoring system plays a key role in the preservation and long-term conservation of cultural relics. Two-dimensional digital image correlation (2D-DIC) method has proven its efficiency in being able to provide accurate quantitative information of structural deformations. In this study, a deformation monitoring system with four cameras based on 2D-DIC is developed to perform noncontact, optically based measurement to monitor the deformation of shipwreck in museum environment with low and varying illumination. Because the consistency of the accuracy of 2D-DIC measurements for different locations is the most basic requirement in the application of structural deformation monitoring, selecting the appropriate exposure time and quantifying the bias errors on 2D-DIC measurements should be helpful to the optimal use of this optical nondestructive testing technique. A theoretical criterion is deduced to quantitatively characterize the dependence of interpolation bias upon natural patterns and illuminations. Then, an exposure adjustment scheme is built based on the aforementioned criterion. Numerical experiments reveal that the exposure adjustment scheme is able to provide consistency interpolation error for different natural patterns even though the environmental illumination is different as well. The deformation monitoring system with the proposed exposure adjustment scheme is promising for developing flexible and robust in situ structural health monitoring for use in museum environment with low and varying illumination, making 2D-DIC technique a really useful tool for in situ long-term monitoring of large cultural relics.
Lamotrigine-Valproic Acid Interaction Leading to Stevens–Johnson Syndrome
Authors: Vázquez Marta , Maldonado Cecilia , Guevara Natalia , Rey Andrea , Fagiolino Pietro , Carozzi Antonella , Azambuja Carlos
Published: August 2018

Lamotrigine (LTG) is currently indicated as adjunctive therapy for focal and generalized tonic-clonic seizures and for treatment of bipolar disorder and neuropathic pain. A common concern with LTG in children is the frequency of appearance of skin rash. The intensity of this adverse effect can vary from transient mild rash to Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS), which can be fatal mainly when LTG is coadministered with valproic acid (VPA). Hereby, we present the case of an 8-year-old boy who suffered from SJS and other complications two weeks after LTG was added to his VPA treatment in order to control his seizures. VPA is known to decrease LTG clearance via reduced glucuronidation. In this case, the minor elimination pathway of LTG would play a more important role, and the formation of an arene oxide metabolite would be enhanced. As this reactive metabolite is detoxified mainly by enzymatic reactions, involving microsomal epoxide hydrolase and/or GSH-S-transferases and these enzymes are polymorphically expressed in humans, arene oxide toxicity is increased when epoxide hydrolase or GSH-S-transferases is either defective or inhibited or a depletion of intracellular glutathione levels is taking place. VPA can cause inhibition of epoxide hydrolase enzymes and/or depletion of glutathione levels leading to adverse cutaneous reactions.
Effect of Photoillumination on Gold-Nanoparticle-Assisted Chemical Etching of Silicon
Authors: Shiao Ming-Hua , Lai Chou-Pu , Liao Bo-Huei , Lin Yung-Sheng
Published: August 2018

Metal-assisted chemical etching (MacEtch) has attracted considerable attention for its ability to fabricate micro- and nanostructures with high aspect ratios and its applications in other microelectromechanical fields. However, few studies have reported the effect of photoillumination on MacEtch. In this study, gold nanoparticles (GNPs) were deposited on the surface of a Si wafer by using the fluoride-assisted galvanic replacement reaction, and then, the effect of photoillumination on the MacEtch of the Si wafer was investigated. The etched depth increased linearly with etching time from 0–45 min and was considerably larger in the illuminated area than the nonilluminated area. A lag time was observed for the MacEtch of the nonilluminated area. However, no lag time was observed in the illuminated area. The trapping of light by the GNPs on the Si substrate surface during the MacEtch process enhanced the etching efficiency due to localized surface plasmon resonance.
Antioxidant Activity and In Vitro Antiglycation of the Fruit of Spondias purpurea
Authors: Muñiz Alethia , Garcia Efren , Gonzalez Daphne , Zuñiga Lizette
Published: August 2018

Hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus causes irreversible life‐threatening micro‐ and macrovascular complications. There is evidence that the glycation reaction leads to a chemical modification of the proteins contributing to the complications of diabetes. It is known that advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are formed by glycation and oxidation reactions called glycoxidation. CML, a nonfluorescent AGE, has become a biomarker of glycoxidative damage; other AGEs appear to induce oxidative stress, which results in cytotoxicity. To determine antioxidant activity, the FRAP, DPPH, and TEAC tests were used, as well as the polyphenols content using Folin‐Ciocalteu’s method. To evaluate the antiglycation activity, the BSA/glucose system was used, and the fructosamine concentration, protein carbonyl content, thiol, and CML groups were determined. The results obtained show that the hexane extract of the fruit of Spondias purpurea (CFH) effectively inhibits the glycation reaction, in addition to increasing the thiol groups and decreasing levels of fructosamine, protein carbonyl, and CML. In addition, CFH presented significant antioxidant activity. CFH inhibits the glycation reaction; therefore, it can help prevent complications related to AGEs in diabetes mellitus; it also reduces oxidative stress and is effective in protecting proteins from oxidative damage.
Cardiometabolic Changes in Different Gonadal Female States Caused by Mild Hyperuricemia and Exposure to a High-Fructose Diet
Authors: Soutelo J. , Samaniego Y. A. , Fornari M. C. , Reyes Toso C. , Ponzo O. J.
Published: August 2018

Background. The objective of this study is to observe if mild hyperuricemia and a high-fructose diet influence the cardiovascular and metabolic systems in hypogonadic female Wistar rats compared to normogonadic female rats. Methods. Fifty-six (56) adult female Wistar rats were used in the present work. Animals were divided into two groups: normogonadic (NGN) and hypogonadic (HGN). These groups were also divided into four subgroups in accordance with the treatment: control with only water (C), fructose (F), oxonic acid (OA), and fructose + oxonic acid (FOA). Lipid profile, glycemia, uric acid, and creatinine determinations were assessed. Cardiovascular changes were evaluated by measuring blood pressure, myocyte volume, fibrosis, and intima-media aortic thickness. Results. HGN rats had higher levels of total cholesterol (TC) (p<0.01) and noHDLc (p<0.01), in addition to higher levels of uric acid (p<0.05). The OA group significantly increased myocyte volume (p<0.0001) and the percentage of fibrosis as well as the group receiving FOA (p<0.001) in both gonadal conditions, being greater in the HGN group. Hypogonadic animals presented a worse lipid profile. Conclusion. Mild hyperuricemia produces hypertension together with changes in the cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, and increased thickness of the intima media in hypogonadic rats fed high-fructose diet.
Immunomodulatory Effects of 17β-Estradiol on Epithelial Cells during Bacterial Infections
Authors: Medina-Estrada Ivan , Alva-Murillo Nayeli , López-Meza Joel E. , Ochoa-Zarzosa Alejandra
Published: August 2018

The innate immune system can function under hormonal control. 17β-Estradiol (E2) is an important sexual hormone for the reproductive cycle of mammals, and it has immunomodulatory effects on epithelial cells, which are the first line of defense against incoming bacteria. E2 regulates various pathophysiological processes, including the response to infection in epithelial cells, and its effects involve the regulation of innate immune signaling pathways, which are mediated through estrogen receptors (ERs). E2 modulates the expression of inflammatory and antimicrobial elements such as cytokines and antimicrobial peptides. The E2 effects on epithelial cells during bacterial infections are characterized by an increase in the production of antimicrobial peptides and by the diminution of the inflammatory response to abrogate proinflammatory cytokine induction by bacteria. Here, we review several novel molecular mechanisms through which E2 regulates the innate immune response of epithelial cells against bacterial infections.
Predictors of Sleep Apnea in the Canadian Population
Authors: van der Spuy Ina , Zhao Gaungming , Karunanayake Chandima , Pahwa Punam
Published: August 2018

Older age, obesity, hypertension, snoring, and excessive daytime sleepiness have been associated with sleep apnea. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence (crude and adjusted), as well as the risk factors, of sleep apnea in the adult Canadian population. Data from the 2009 Sleep Apnea Rapid Response (SARR) questionnaire were used to identify the risk factors, and all sleep-related questions in the SARR questionnaire were used. The outcome variable of interest was health professional-diagnosed sleep apnea. Covariates of interest were demographic variables, population characteristics, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and enabling resources. The multiple logistic regression model adjusted for the clustering effect was used to analyze the data. Sleep apnea was diagnosed in 858,913 adults (3.4% of the population), and more men (65.4%) than women (34.6%) were diagnosed with sleep apnea. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that age (45 and older), loud snoring, sudden awakening with gasping/choking (rare/sometimes and once or more a week), and nodding off/falling asleep in driving in the past 12 months were significantly associated with diagnosed sleep apnea. Predictive probability demonstrated that in overweight and obese persons, ≥15 minutes of daily exercise significantly decreased the risk of diagnosed sleep apnea. The conclusion of this study is that in the Canadian population, sleep apnea is associated with older age, loud snoring, and sleeping problems. The protective effect of exercise warrants further investigation.
Numerical and Experimental Analysis of the Shear Behavior of Ultrahigh‐Performance Concrete Construction Joints
Authors: Jang Hyun-O. , Lee Han-Seung , Cho Keunhee , Kim Jinkyu
Published: August 2018

Shear performance of plain UHPC (ultrahigh‐performance concrete) construction joints is studied in both experimental and analytical ways. In push‐off tests, three different contact surfaces of the construction joint were considered, while the case without any joint was provided for the reference. Test results indicate that the geometry of contact surfaces greatly affects shear performance of the construction joint. With simplifying structural behavior of contact surfaces and UHPC substrate, the finite‐element analysis model is developed for every case studied by utilizing the ABAQUS software and validated against the test results. Agreement between experimental and numerical simulation results is excellent especially in terms of displacement, strength, and failure mechanism. It is expected that the present work provides a basis for further study on reinforced UHPC construction joints.
Coil Embolization of Coronary-Cameral Fistula Complicating Revascularization of Chronic Total Occlusion
Authors: Mertens Amy , Dalal Pratik , Ashbrook Michael , Hanson Ivan
Published: August 2018

Traumatic vessel perforation is a potential complication of chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary artery intervention (PCI). A rare consequence of this complication is a coronary-cameral fistula. The management of this condition is not well elucidated. Herein, we present such a case of symptomatic left anterior descending to the right ventricle (LAD-RV) fistula which was treated with coil embolization.
Incentive Mechanism of Data Storage Based on Blockchain for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Ren Yongjun , Liu Yepeng , Ji Sai , Sangaiah Arun Kumar , Wang Jin
Published: August 2018

In this paper, the blockchain technology is utilized to build the first incentive mechanism of nodes as per data storage for wireless sensor networks (WSNs). In our system, the nodes storing the data are rewarded with digital money. The more the data stored by the node, the more the reward it achieves. Moreover, two blockchains are constructed. One is utilized to store data of each node and another is to control the access of data. In addition, our proposal adopts the provable data possession to replace the proof of work (PoW) in original bitcoins to carry out the mining and storage of new data blocks, which greatly reduces the computing power comparing to the PoW mechanism. Furthermore, the preserving hash functions are used to compare the stored data and the new data block. The new data can be stored in the node which is closest to the existing data, and only the different subblocks are stored. Thus, it can greatly save the storage space of network nodes.
An Efficient and Provably-Secure Certificateless Proxy-Signcryption Scheme for Electronic Prescription System
Authors: Li Li , Zhou Siqin , Choo Kim-Kwang Raymond , Li Xiaohong , He Debiao
Published: August 2018

Electronic prescription is increasingly popular in our society, particularly in technologically advanced countries. Due to strict legal requirements and privacy regulations, authorization and data confidentiality are two important features in electronic prescription system. By combining signature and encryption functions, signcryption is an efficient cryptographic primitive that can be used to provide these two features. While signcryption is a fairly established research area, most signcryption schemes proposed recently have several limitations (e.g., high communication costs, limited bandwidth, and insecurity), and designing secure and practical signcryption schemes remains challenging. In this paper, we propose an improved certificateless proxy signcryption (CLPSC) scheme, based on elliptic curve cryptography (ECC). We also demonstrate that the proposed CLPSC scheme is secure in the random oracle model and evaluate its performance with related schemes. The security and performance evaluations show that the proposed CLPSC scheme can potentially be implemented on resource-constrained low-computing mobile devices in an electronic prescription system.
Thermal and Rheological Formulation and Evaluation of Synthetic Bitumen from Reprocessed Polypropylene and Oil
Authors: Souza Ricardo S. , Visconte Leila L. Y. , da Silva Ana L. N. , Costa Valéria G.
Published: August 2018

Bitumen from the catalytic cracking of petroleum is widely used in the construction industry as a binder for mineral aggregates paving asphalt cement (PAC). However, this material has serious limitations for use at different temperatures. Modifications with polymers have been widely studied to improve the properties of this material and increase its useful life. As a result of the increased environmental risk, the volume of solid waste (MSW) can be used as an alternative to the best use of this material. One of these is the formulation of synthetic bitumen (binders) from mixtures of lubricant oil/polymer that can show better when compared to traditional and modified bitumen. In this work, a mixture of lubricating oil and recycled polypropylene (PP) was made for the formulation of synthetic bitumens. The rheological analyses carried out on the material indicate that at low temperatures the formulated material shows high loading modulus values, indicating high mechanical strength, and the material also presented high resistance to permanent deformation; the viscosity profile indicates that the material is highly pseudoplastic presenting high viscosity at zero shear rate and low visibility at high shear rates, highlighting the samples containing 10 and 20% of polymer material in the formation as the best for use as one of the components of the pavement cement.
Traumatic Epiglottitis following a Blind Insertion of the Hand during Convulsion
Authors: Yokoyama Koji
Published: August 2018

Traditionally, it has been recommended that first-responders should place chopsticks or their hand in a child’s mouth to prevent the child from biting their tongue during convulsion. The practice persists locally in parts of Japan and can cause adverse events. We report a traumatic epiglottitis following the thrusting of a guardians’ hand into a 13-month-old girl’s mouth to prevent her from biting her tongue.
Molecular Pathogenesis of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis- (NASH-) Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kutlu Ozlem , Kaleli Humeyra Nur , Ozer Ebru
Published: August 2018

The proportion of obese or diabetic population has been anticipated to increase in the upcoming decades, which rises the prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its progression to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Recent evidence indicates that NASH is the main cause of chronic liver diseases and it is an important risk factor for development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although the literature addressing NASH-HCC is growing rapidly, limited data is available about the etiology of NASH-related HCC. Experimental studies on the molecular mechanism of HCC development in NASH reveal that the carcinogenesis is relevant to complex changes in signaling pathways that mediate cell proliferation and energy metabolism. Genetic or epigenetic modifications and alterations in metabolic, immunologic, and endocrine pathways have been shown to be closely related to inflammation, liver injury, and fibrosis in NASH along with its subsequent progression to HCC. In this review, we provide an overview on the current knowledge of NASH-related HCC development and emphasize molecular signaling pathways regarding their mechanism of action in NASH-derived HCC.
Risk Evaluation Model of Highway Tunnel Portal Construction Based on BP Fuzzy Neural Network
Authors: Deng Xianghui , Xu Tian , Wang Rui
Published: August 2018

Risk assessment for tunnel portals in the construction stage has been widely recognized as one of the most critical phases in tunnel construction as it easily causes accident than the overall length of a tunnel. However, the risk in tunnel portal construction is complicated and uncertain which has made such a neural network very attractive to the construction projects. This paper presents a risk evaluation model, which is obtained from historical data of 50 tunnels, by combining the fuzzy method and BP neural network. The proposed model is used for the risk assessment of the Tiefodian tunnel. The results show that the risk evaluation level is IV, slope instability is the greatest impact index among four risk events, and the major risk factors are confirmed. According to the evaluation results, corresponding risk control measures are suggested and implemented. Finally, numerical simulation is carried out before and after the implementation of risk measures, respectively. The rationality of the proposed risk evaluation model is proved by comparing the numerical simulation results.
Convolution Neural Network Based on Two-Dimensional Spectrum for Hyperspectral Image Classification
Authors: Gao Hongmin , Lin Shuo , Yang Yao , Li Chenming , Yang Mingxiang
Published: August 2018

Inherent spectral characteristics of hyperspectral image (HSI) data are determined and need to be deeply mined. A convolution neural network (CNN) model of two-dimensional spectrum (2D spectrum) is proposed based on the advantages of deep learning to extract feature and classify HSI. First of all, the traditional data processing methods which use small area pixel block or one-dimensional spectral vector as input unit bring many heterogeneous noises. The 2D-spectrum image method is proposed to solve the problem and make full use of spectral value and spatial information. Furthermore, a batch normalization algorithm (BN) is introduced to address internal covariate shifts caused by changes in the distribution of input data and expedite the training of the network. Finally, Softmax loss models are proposed to induce competition among the outputs and improve the performance of the CNN model. The HSI datasets of experiments include Indian Pines, Salinas, Kennedy Space Center (KSC), and Botswana. Experimental results show that the overall accuracies of the 2D-spectrum CNN model can reach 98.26%, 97.28%, 96.22%, and 93.64%. These results are higher than the accuracies of other traditional methods described in this paper. The proposed model can achieve high target classification accuracy and efficiency.
A Sustainable Ambulance Operation Model in a Low-Resource Country (the Democratic Republic of Congo)
Authors: Lee Tae-Hun , Han Jae-Hyun , Sharma Ashish Ranjan , Choi Young-A , Kim Dong Won , Lee Sang-Soo , Ahn Moo-Eob
Published: August 2018

Due to an increase in traffic collisions, the demand for prehospital medical services is on the rise, even in low-resource countries where emergency ambulance services have not been previously provided. To build a sustainable and continuous prehospital ambulance operation model, it is necessary to consider the medical system and economic conditions of the corresponding country. In an attempt to construct a prehospital ambulance operation model that ensures continuous operation, a pilot “emergency patient transporting service from field to hospital” operation was established for approximately three months in Kinshasa, the capital of the DR Congo. To construct a continuously operating model even after the pilot operation, willingness to pay (WTP) by type of emergency medical and transport service was investigated by implementing the contingent valuation method (CVM). Using CVM, the WTP for prehospital emergency services targeting ambulance services personnel, patients, policemen, and hospital staff participating in the pilot operation was calculated. The results of the pilot operation revealed that there were a total of 212 patients with a mean patient number of 2.4 per day. A total of 155 patients used the services for hospital transport, while 121 patients used the services for traffic collisions. Traffic collisions were the category in which ambulance services were most frequently needed (66.2%). Pay services were most frequently utilized in the home-visit services category (40.9%). Based on these results, eight independently operated ambulance operation models and sixteen models that utilize hospital medical personnel and policemen already belonging to existing institutions were proposed. In an effort to implement emergency medical ambulance services in the DR Congo, medical staff receiving pay for performance (incentive pay) should be deployed in the field and on call. Accordingly, with respect to sustainable development goals, various pay-for-service models should be used.
The Development of Talent in Sports: A Dynamic Network Approach
Authors: Den Hartigh Ruud J. R. , Hill Yannick , Van Geert Paul L. C.
Published: August 2018

Understanding the development of talent has been a major challenge across the arts, education, and particularly sports. Here, we show that a dynamic network model predicts typical individual developmental patterns, which for a few athletes result in exceptional achievements. We first validated the model on individual trajectories of famous athletes (Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Sidney Crosby, and Lionel Messi). Second, we fitted the model on athletic achievements across sports, geographical scale, and gender. We show that the model provides good predictions for the distributions of grand slam victories in tennis (male players, n = 1528; female players, n = 1274), major wins in golf (male players, n = 1011; female players, n = 1183), and goals scored in the NHL (ice hockey, n = 6677) and in FC Barcelona (soccer, n = 585). The dynamic network model offers a new avenue toward understanding talent development in sports and other achievement domains.
The Influence of Heading Rate on Roof Stability in Coal Entry Excavation
Authors: Yang Sen , Zhang Nong , Feng Xiaowei , Pan Dongjiang , Qian Deyu
Published: August 2018

Coal entry heading is one of the most hazardous activities in coal mine operations because a certain area of an unsupported roof inevitably forms and poses a significant threat to the safety of miners. In order to accelerate the coal entry heading, a simplified method including theoretical analysis and laboratory and in situ tests was developed to predict the influence of heading rate on the stability of the unsupported immediate roof. The results demonstrate that the deflection of the unsupported immediate roof at the heading face is on a scale of millimetre; hence, monitoring the deformation by conventional observation methods is difficult. The proposed model shows that, within the unsupported immediate roof, the peak values of normal stresses σx (perpendicular to the direction of excavation) and σy (parallel to the direction of excavation) and shear stresses τxz (perpendicular to the direction of excavation) and τyz (parallel to the direction of excavation) have different changing trends. The peak values of σx and σy both rise with the increasing advancing distance; however, σy reaches the tensile strength within a shorter range than σx. Moreover, the peak values of τxz and τyz initially increase with the increasing advancing distance and then stabilize or decline. The major threat to roof stability at the heading face is tensile failure parallel to the heading direction. According to the industry practices, it is proved that our method can make a good prediction of the mechanical state of the unsupported immediate roof, further deriving the heading rate with a considerable safety margin.
SIR Model for Dengue Disease with Effect of Dengue Vaccination
Authors: Chanprasopchai Pratchaya , Tang I. Ming , Pongsumpun Puntani
Published: August 2018

The dengue disease is caused by dengue virus, and there is no specific treatment. The medical care by experienced physicians and nurses will save life and will lower the mortality rate. A dengue vaccine to control the disease is available in Thailand since late 2016. A mathematical model would be an important way to analyze the effects of the vaccination on the transmission of the disease. We have formulated an SIR (susceptible-infected-recovered) model of the transmission of the disease which includes the effect of vaccination and used standard dynamical modelling methods to analyze the effects. The equilibrium states and their stabilities are investigated. The trajectories of the numerical solutions plotted into the 2D planes and 3D spaces are presented. The main contribution is determining the role of dengue vaccination in the model. From the analysis, we find that there is a significant reduction in the total hospitalization time needed to treat the illness.
Prepubertal and Pubertal Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Exposure and Breast Density among Chilean Adolescents
Authors: Binder Alexandra M. , Corvalan Camila , Pereira Ana , Calafat Antonia M. , Ye Xiaoyun , Shepherd John , Michels Karin B.
Published: August 2018

Background:

During puberty, mammary tissue undergoes rapid development, which provides a window of heightened susceptibility of breast composition to the influence of endogenous and exogenous hormones. Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC) may affect breast development and composition and the risk of developing breast cancer in adulthood.

Methods:

We evaluated the associations between breast density and urinary concentrations of phenols and phthalates collected at Tanner 1 (B1) and Tanner 4 (B4) in 200 Chilean girls. Total breast volume (BV), fibroglandular volume (FGV), and percent dense breast (%FGV) were evaluated at B4 using dual X-ray absorptiometry. Generalized estimating equations were used to analyze the association between concentrations of EDC biomarkers across puberty and breast density.

Results:

The geometric mean %FGV was 7% higher among girls in the highest relative to the lowest tertile of monocarboxyisooctyl phthalate [1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.01–1.14]. Monoethyl phthalate concentrations at B4 were positively associated with FGV (highest vs. lowest tertile: 1.22; 95% CI, 1.06–1.40). Bisphenol A displayed a U-shaped association with FGV; girls in the middle tertile had at least 10% lower FGV than girls in the lowest or highest tertiles. Monocarboxyisononyl phthalate showed a nonlinear association with BV. No other statistically significant associations were observed.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that the developing breast tissue is susceptible to select EDCs during childhood and adolescence.

Impact:

This study may spur further investigations into environmental influences on breast development during puberty and how shifts in pubertal breast density track through the life course to modify breast cancer risk.
Validation of a Blood Biomarker for Identification of Individuals at High Risk for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Epplein Meira , Butt Julia , Zhang Yang , Hendrix Laura H. , Abnet Christian C. , Murphy Gwen , Zheng Wei , Shu Xiao-Ou , Tsugane Shoichiro , Qiao You-lin , Taylor Philip R. , Shimazu Taichi , Yoo Keun-Young , Park Sue K. , Kim Jeongseon , Jee Sun Ha , Waterboer Tim , Pawlita Michael , You Wei-cheng , Pan Kai-feng
Published: August 2018

Background:

Helicobacter pylori is the leading cause of gastric cancer, yet the majority of infected individuals will not develop neoplasia. Previously, we developed and replicated serologic H. pylori biomarkers for gastric cancer risk among prospective cohorts in East Asia and now seek to validate the performance of these biomarkers in identifying individuals with premalignant lesions.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study included 1,402 individuals from Linqu County screened by upper endoscopy. H. pylori protein-specific antibody levels were assessed using multiplex serology. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for prevalent intestinal metaplasia, indefinite dysplasia, or dysplasia, compared with superficial or mild atrophic gastritis.

Results:

Compared with individuals seronegative to Omp and HP0305, individuals seropositive to both were seven times more likely to have precancerous lesions (OR, 7.43; 95% CI, 5.59–9.88). A classification model for precancerous lesions that includes age, smoking, and seropositivity to H. pylori, Omp, and HP0305 resulted in an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.751 (95% CI, 0.725–0.777), which is significantly better than the same model, including the established gastric cancer risk factor CagA (AUC, 0.718; 95% CI, 0.691–0.746, Pdifference = 0.0002).

Conclusions:

The present study of prevalent precancerous gastric lesions provides support for two new serum biomarkers of gastric cancer risk, Omp and HP 0305.

Impact:

Our results support further research into the serological biomarkers Omp and HP0305 as possible improvements over the established virulence marker CagA for identifying individuals with precancerous lesions in East Asia.
Childhood Adversity and Psychophysiological Reactivity to Pain in Adolescent Nonsuicidal Self-Injury
Authors: Rinnewitz  Lena , Koenig Julian , Parzer Peter , Brunner Romuald , Resch Franz , Kaess Michael
Published: August 2018

Background: Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI), the intentional, self-directed act of injuring one’s own body tissue, is a behavioral phenomenon closely linked to stress and its maladaptive regulation. NSSI is associated with childhood adversity that may underlie altered hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and autonomic nervous system response to stress in adolescents engaging in NSSI. Adolescents engaging in NSSI show decreased pain sensitivity and increased psychophysiological response to pain that may underlie the maintenance of the behavior and its stress-regulating function. Sampling and Methods: In a secondary analysis of previously published data we aimed to address the relationship between childhood adversity and altered psychophysiological pain response in an outpatient sample of n = 30 adolescents engaging in repetitive NSSI. Results: Greater childhood adversity is associated with greater cortisol secretion and increased and prolonged autonomic arousal following pain induction. Conclusions: The findings illustrate a potential neurobiological pathway linking childhood adversity to hyporesponsiveness of endogenous stress response systems that in turn show increased reactivity to the experience of pain. This hyperreactivity may counterbalance an inadequate stress response and in turn help to cope with stressful experiences. Directions for future research are discussed.
Impact of Internet Addiction on Mental Health: An Integrative Therapy Is Needed
Authors: Tripathi Anurag
Published: August 2018

In the past few years internet addiction (IA) and internet gaming disorder (IGD) have become very frequent, leading to many personality and psychiatric disorders including low self-esteem, impulsivity, poor sleep quality, mood disorder, and suicide. IA has been included in Appendix III of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as IGD. In addition, IA leads to many neuroanatomical and neurochemical alterations including cortical thinning of various components of the brain and altered dopaminergic reward circuitry. Due to widespread neuropsychiatric and neurobiological implications of IA, multiple therapeutic approaches are needed. Integrative therapy in the form of yoga and mindfulness has proven to be effective in many addiction disorders including IA.
Neuroimmune Alterations in Autism: A Translational Analysis Focusing on the Animal Model of Autism Induced by Prenatal Exposure to Valproic Acid
Authors: Deckmann Iohanna , Schwingel Gustavo Brum , Fontes-Dutra Mellanie , Bambini-Junior Victorio , Gottfried Carmem
Published: August 2018

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly prevalent developmental disorder characterized by deficits in communication and social interaction and in stereotyped or repetitive behaviors. Besides the classical behavioral dyad, several comorbidities are frequently present in patients with ASD, such as anxiety, epilepsy, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal tract dysfunction. Although the etiology of ASD remains unclear, there is supporting evidence for the involvement of both genetic and environmental factors. Valproic acid (VPA) is an anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer that, when used during the gestational period, increases the risk of ASD in the offspring. The animal model of autism induced by prenatal exposure to VPA demonstrates important structural and behavioral features that can be observed in individuals with autism; it is thus an excellent tool for testing new drug targets and developing novel behavioral and drug therapies. In addition, immunological alterations during pregnancy could affect the developing embryo because immune molecules can pass through the placental barrier. In fact, exposure to pathogens during the pregnancy is a known risk factor for ASD, and maternal immune activation can lead to autistic-like features in animals. Interestingly, neuroimmune alterations are common in both autistic individuals and in animal models of ASD. We summarize here the important alterations in inflammatory markers, such as cytokines and chemokines, in patients with ASD and in the VPA animal model.
Effect of Thyroid Hormones on Neurons and Neurodevelopment
Authors: Prezioso Giovanni , Giannini Cosimo , Chiarelli Francesco
Published: August 2018

This review focuses on the current knowledge of the effects of thyroid hormones on central nervous system differentiation and development in animals and the human fetal brain. The outcomes of children with congenital hypothyroidism and of newborns with hypothyroid pregnant mothers are emphasized, focusing on how therapies could affect and especially improve the outcomes.
Thyroid Function and Autoimmune Indications in Patients with Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis
Authors: Ma Xiaoyu , Yin Qingqing , Zeng Ziling , Wang Chunjuan , Yang Yang , Guo Shougang
Published: August 2018

Objective: Previous studies have shown that functional abnormalities of the thyroid are associated with the pathogenesis of several neurological diseases. However, their relationship in patients with anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis remains to be defined. Methods: Forty-three patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis were examined for thyroid function and autoimmune indications, in comparison with 225 healthy controls (CTL). Patients were further classified into 2 subgroups based on their free tri-iodothyronine (fT3) levels. Moreover, fT3 levels were also investigated after at least three months of follow-up. The clinical characteristics of the patients and CTL were described in detail. Results: Serum levels of fT3 and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were found to be relatively lower in patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis than in CTL (both p < 0.001). Low T3 syndrome also occurred more frequently in anti- NMDAR encephalitis (25.6 vs. 0.4%, p < 0.001). However, no statistical differences were detected between patients and CTL in terms of the positive rate of thyroid antibodies and other types of thyroid dysfunction. Patients with low T3 levels tended to have a longer hospital stay (p = 0.006), a higher rate of abnormal brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings (p = 0.033), a higher frequency of consciousness declination (p = 0.029), and a higher modified Rankin scale (mRS) score during hospitalization. Low fT3 levels were also associated with abnormal MRI findings, a decline in consciousness, and the mRS score on admission. In addition, fT3 seemed to gradually return to normal levels upon improvement of the mRS score (r = –0.649, p = 0.002). Conclusions: Low T3 syndrome often copresents in anti-NMDAR encephalitis and indicates a longer hospitalization, abnormal MRI findings, consciousness declination, and a higher clinical severity. However, fT3 levels do not seem to influence the prognosis of anti-NMDAR encephalitis.
The Dysregulated Expression of KCNQ1OT1 and Its Interaction with Downstream Factors miR-145/CCNE2 in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Feng Weiliang , Wang Chen , Liang Chenlu , Yang Hongjian , Chen Daobao , Yu Xingfei , Zhao Wenyan , Geng Donghua , Li Shuqiang , Chen Zhaofu , Sun Ming
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has revealed abundant long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that have been characterized as critical components of cancer biology in humans. The present study aims to investigate the role of the lncRNA KCNQ1OT1 in breast cancer (BRCA) as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms and functions of KCNQ1OT1 involved in the progression of BRCA. Methods: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and StarBase v2.0 were used to obtain the required gene data. Dual luciferase reporter gene assays were conducted to verify the relevant intermolecular target relationships. QRT-PCR and Western blot were performed to measure the expression levels of different molecules. Cell proliferation was detected by using the MTT and colony formation assays, while cell migration and invasion were examined by transwell assay. Variations in cell apoptosis and cell cycle were determined through flow cytometry. A tumor xenograft model was applied to assess tumor growth in vivo. Results: KCNQ1OT1 was found to be remarkably highly expressed in BRCA tissues and cells. KCNQ1OT1 modulated CCNE2 through sponging miR-145 in BRCA. KCNQ1OT1 promoted tumor growth in vivo by regulating miR-145/CCNE2. Conclusion: The KCNQ1OT1/miR-145/CCNE2 axis plays a critical regulatory role in BRCA, potentially giving rise to BRCA tumorigenesis and progression. These findings provide valuable evidence for improving the diagnosis and treatment of BRCA in the future.
Prodigiosin Alleviates Pulmonary Fibrosis Through Inhibiting miRNA-410 and TGF-β1/ADAMTS-1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Liu Hao , He Yi , Jiang Zhaolei , Shen Saie , Mei Ju , Tang Min
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Pulmonary fibrosis is a common outcome of various interstitial lung diseases. Prodigiosin (PG) is a series of red pigment with methoxypyrrole ring. This studyinvestigates therole of prodigiosin in pulmonary fibrosis and its underlying mechanisms. Methods: A pulmonary fibrosis rat model was established by intra-trachealinjection ofbleomycin A5. Rats were divided into 4 groups: Normal group, pulmonary fibrosis Model group, Prodigiosin treatment group and hydrocortisone treatmentgroup. HE and Masson staining were carried outto evaluate histopathological changes. The content of hydroxyproline in lung tissue was determined by alkaline hydrolysis. The expression of PICP and PIIINP was examined by ELISA. The mRNA expression of miR-410, TGF-β1 and ADAMTS1 in lung homogenate were detected by RT-PCR. The bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissues of rats were collected and analyzed. Human embryonic pulmonary fibroblast (HEPF) was used for study in vitro. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was conducted to examine the effect of miR-410 on ADAMTS1 expression. Cell transfection was conducted to inhibit miR-410. MTT assay was performed to investigate cell proliferation. The expressions of miR-410, TGF-β1, ADAMTS1and other fibrosis related biomarkers (Col I, Col III, and α-SMA) wereexamined by RT-PCR and Western Blot. Results: HE and Masson staining showed thickened alveolar septum, hyperplasticcapillaries, and large areas of collagen fiber deposition in pulmonary fibrosis model rats. Rats in prodigiosin and hydrocortisone treatment groups had alleviated symptoms. There was high hydroxyproline expression in model rats, whereas the expression of hydroxyproline reduced after prodigiosin or hydrocortisone treatments. RT-PCR results showed high miR-410,high TGF-β1 and low ADAMTS1 in lung tissue of model rats. The expression of PICP and PIIINP werehigher in BALF of model group than in treatment groups. Prodigiosin and hydrocortisone treatment significantly reduced PICP and PIIINP content. RT-PCR and Western Blot analysis showed that prodigiosin inhibited expression of miR-410 and TGF-β1, but up-regulated ADAMTS1 expression. MTT assay indicated that prodigiosin inhibited HEPF proliferation induced by miR-410 overexpression. Conclusion: Prodigiosin down-regulates the expression of miR-410 and TGF-β1, up-regulates ADAMTS1, leading to decrease accumulation of fibrotic proteins. It could be used in alleviating pulmonary fibrosis.
The Teenage Brain: Public Perceptions of Neurocognitive Development during Adolescence
Authors: Altikulaç Sibel , Lee Nikki C. , van der Veen Chiel , Benneker Ilona , Krabbendam Lydia , van Atteveldt Nienke
Published: August 2018

Over the past decade, important insights have been obtained into the neurocognitive development during adolescence. To better understand how these neuroscientific insights impact the real world, we investigated how neuroscience has shaped public perceptions of the “teenage brain” and if these perceptions influence adolescent behavior. When asking to generate free associations with the word “teenage brain,” adolescents ( n = 363, Mage= 14.47 years) and parents ( n = 164, Mage= 47.16 years) more often mention undesirable behaviors (e.g., “irresponsible”) than desirable behaviors (e.g., “creative”). Despite these dominantly negative associations, priming adolescents with positively versus negatively framed statements about adolescent brain development did not influence their subsequent risk-taking, impulsivity, and performance on response-to-failure tasks. However, we did find a more nuanced effect, related to how much adolescents agreed with the negative versus positive priming statements: Adolescents' negative beliefs about adolescent brain development reinforced negative behaviors by increased risk-taking behaviors, and adolescents' positive beliefs reinforced positive behaviors by using positive strategies to cope with academic setbacks. The current findings underline the impact of views that build up over time and that these are not easily influenced by a one-time instance of information but rather reinforce the impact of new information. To prevent negative perceptions of the teenage brain from becoming self-fulfilling prophecies, it is important that communication about adolescent neurocognitive development is framed in a more balanced way. Neuroscientists need to be more aware of how their research impacts the real world, before we are fully ready for “real-world neuroscience.”
The Long Walk to Strasbourg: About the Insufficient Judicial Protection in Some Areas of the Common Foreign and Security Policy before the European Union’s Accession to the ECHR
Authors: Cortés-Martín José M.
Published: August 2018

It is likely that the European Court of Justice’s (ECJ) objection in Opinion 2/13 regarding the absence of judicial remedies in certain Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) areas can hardly be accommodated in a future revised Accession Project to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). This is basically due to obstacles to proceeding with reform of the EU Treaties or establishing an ECHR reservation clause. However, as a matter of fact, the exact dimension of this problem seems to be quite relative. First of all, this is because recent ECJ case-law is gradually eroding the Court’s lack of competence, in particular, after Rosneft. Next, this is because, in those cases where there is still an absence of effective judicial protection, national courts – as EU ordinary courts – could fill this gap. Finally, this gap could also be filled by creating accountability mechanisms in the area of human rights within the framework of Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions.
Sheathia jinchengensis (Batrachospermales, Rhodophyta), a new freshwater red algal species described from North China
Authors: HAN JIN-FEN , NAN FANG-RU , FENG JIA , LV JUN-PING , LIU QI , KOCIOLEK JOHN P. , XIE SHU-LIAN
Published: August 2018

A new species of freshwater red algae, Sheathia jinchengensis, is described based on material collected from rocks in a clean and cold-water stream from the Jincheng region of Shanxi province in North China. Molecular sequences of rbcL and psbA genes were used to evaluate the phylogenetic relationship among samples of S. jinchengensis and other Sheathia species from several regions of the world. The results showed that S. jinchengensis formed an independent branch and separated from the previously published sequence data of other Sheathia taxa. From a morphological point of view, this new species differs also from other species of the genus by the smaller diameter of whorls (167.0–312.5 μm) and larger carpogonium diameter (17.0–29.0 μm). Comparison of sequence variation and thallus morphology with other Sheathia taxa resulted in the proposal of the new species—S. jinchengensis. Additionally, two endemic Batrachospermum species described earlier from China i.e., B. hongdongense and B. longipedicellata are now transferred to the genus Sheathia based on the present study as S. hongdongensis (S.L.Xie & J.Feng) Han, Nan, Feng, Lv, Liu, Kociolek et Xie comb. nov. and S. longipedicellata (Hua & Shi) Han, Nan, Feng, Lv, Liu, Kociolek et Xie comb. nov.