bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shifts of group-like projections and contractive idempotent functionals for locally compact quantum groups
Authors: kasprzak Paweł
Published: October 2018

A one-to-one correspondence between shifts of group-like projections on a locally compact quantum group [Formula: see text] which are preserved by the scaling group and contractive idempotent functionals on the dual [Formula: see text] is established. This is a generalization of the Illie–Spronk’s correspondence between contractive idempotents in the Fourier–Stieltjes algebra of a locally compact group [Formula: see text] and cosets of open subgroups of [Formula: see text]. We also establish a one-to-one correspondence between nondegenerate, integrable, [Formula: see text]-invariant ternary rings of operators [Formula: see text], preserved by the scaling group and contractive idempotent functionals on [Formula: see text]. Using our results, we characterize coideals in [Formula: see text] admitting an atom preserved by the scaling group in terms of idempotent states on [Formula: see text]. We also establish a one-to-one correspondence between integrable coideals in [Formula: see text] and group-like projections in [Formula: see text] satisfying an extra mild condition. Exploiting this correspondence, we give examples of group-like projections which are not preserved by the scaling group.
A Pre-Processing Method Based on Self-Scoring Restoration and Self-Calibration for Image in Pressure Flow Pipes
Authors: Fan Shaosheng , Li Han Song
Published: October 2018

The appearance of the inside of a running pressure flow pipe, when viewed through a photo-lens, is often blurred and deformed by the influence of fluid pressure, temperature and type. This study proposes an image pre-processing method based on self-scoring restoration and self-calibration to solve the problems and make it adaptable to the complicated environments inside the pipe. The method consists of two stages, in the first stage, a restoration method based on Wiener filter is used to work with the defined merit functions to deal with the degenerated images, in the second stage, two images taken from different depths inside the pipe are used to calculate the distortion parameters according to the matching points obtained from those two pictures. The experiment results show the proposed method performs well in clarity and contrast and removes the distortion effectively.
Light-induced absorption and optical damage in Sc-, Mg-, and Zn-doped near-stoichiometric LiNbO3
Authors: Li Junsheng , Liu Youwen , Zhang Huijie , Tang Liangzun , He Chongjun
Published: October 2018

By measuring the ultraviolet-light-induced absorption in Sc-, Mg- and Zn-doped near-stoichiometric lithium niobate (LiNbO[Formula: see text], we find that the steady-state ultraviolet-light-induced absorption coefficient changes with respect to the doping concentration. There is a strong ultraviolet-light-induced absorption when doping concentration is below its photorefractive threshold and a really weak absorption when the crystal is highly doped. We also use OH[Formula: see text] infrared absorption spectra and the transmitted light spot distortion method to verify the result. Thus, we can determine if the doping level in these doped near-stoichiometric LiNbO3 crystals is above or below their photorefractive threshold by measuring the ultraviolet-light-induced absorption.
DOUBLE SPEND RACES
Authors: GRUNSPAN CYRIL , PÉREZ-MARCO RICARDO
Published: October 2018

We correct the double spend race analysis given in Nakamoto’s foundational Bitcoin article and find the exact closed-form formula for the probability of success of a double spend attack using the regularized incomplete beta function. We give the first proof of its exponential decay on the number of confirmations, often cited in the literature, and find an asymptotic formula. Larger number of confirmations are required compared to those given by Nakamoto. We also compute this probability conditional to the knowledge of the time of the confirmations. This provides a finer risk analysis than the classical one.
On the cohomology of comodules over smash coproducts
Authors: Caenepeel S. , Guédénon T.
Published: October 2018

We consider the category of comodules over a smash coproduct coalgebra [Formula: see text]. We show that there is a Grothendieck spectral sequence connecting the derived functors of the Hom functors coming from [Formula: see text]-colinear, [Formula: see text]-colinear and rational [Formula: see text]-colinear morphisms. We give several applications and connect our results to existing spectral sequences in the literature.
A note on Castelnuovo–Mumford regularity and Hilbert coefficients
Authors: Dung Le Xuan , Hoa Le Tuan
Published: October 2018

New upper and lower bounds on the Castelnuovo–Mumford regularity are given in terms of the Hilbert coefficients. Examples are provided to show that these bounds are in some sense nearly sharp.
Association of Simultaneously Measured Limbs Blood Pressure Differences with Ankle–Brachial Index
Authors: Song Xiaorui , Li Gaoyang , Qiao Aike , Jin Zongping , Chen Zhihui , You Lili
Published: October 2018

The relationship between simultaneous limbs blood pressure differences and Ankle–Brachial Index (ABI) is controversial. This paper aims to investigate the association of limbs blood pressures differences with ABI as the current non-invasive diagnosis method in clinical primary care. A cross-sectional study was performed to analysis the relationship between them. The results showed that [Formula: see text] was independently associated with inter-arm (OR, 15.469; CI, (1.776–134.773); [Formula: see text]) and inter-ankle (OR, 7.189; CI, (1.010–51.179); [Formula: see text]) when the systolic blood pressure difference [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mmHg. Therefore, the simultaneous measurement of four limbs blood pressure differences can provide an aid for the non-invasive detection method of PAD in clinical primary care.
Coupling of Finite Element and Meshfree Method for Structure Mechanics Application: A Review
Authors: Rohit Gaurang R. , Prajapati Jagdish M. , Patel Vikram B.
Published: October 2018

In many engineering problems, the meshfree methods (MMs) have been dynamically projected and increasingly advanced in order to overwhelm some hitches in the predictable numerical methods. Over the past three decades in many different application area, MMs have found their way ranging from solid mechanics analysis, fluid problems, vibration analysis, heat transfer and optimization to numerical solutions of all kinds of (partial) differential equations. As every technique has shortcomings, the meshfree method also has drawbacks like higher computational cost and imposition of boundary condition which can be overruled by coupling it with the finite element method (FEM). In the past two decades, coupled MMs and FEM have appeared into a new session of computational methods with significant achievement. In addition, a noteworthy amount of growth has been made in addressing the major deficiencies that were present in the conventional methods and MMs at the premature phases. The objective of the present work is to provide a comprehensive review of various coupling techniques used for interface elements of MMs and FEM and general discussion on shape function formulation of FE and element free Galerkin method (EFGM). Key contribution of coupling techniques for coupled EFGM and FEM to structure mechanics application as primary concern.
Acid-Base Bifunctional Metal-Organic Frameworks: Green Synthesis and Application in One-Pot Glucose to 5-HMF Conversion
Authors: Zhang Yunlei , Jin Pei , Meng Minjia , Gao Lin , Liu Meng , Yan Yongsheng
Published: October 2018

The direct synthesis of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with acidic and basic active sites is challenging due to the introduction of functional groups by post-functionalization method often jeopardize the framework integrity. Herein, we report the direct synthesis of acid-base bi-functional MOFs with tuning acid-base strength. Employing modulated hydrothermal (MHT) approach, microporous MOFs named UiO-66-NH2 was prepared. Through the ring-opening reaction of 1,3-propanesultone with amino group, UiO-66-NH2-SO3H-type catalysts can be obtained. The synthesized catalysts were well characterized and their catalytic performances were evaluated in one-pot glucose to 5-HMF conversion. Results revealed the acid-base bi-functional catalyst possessed high activity and excellent stability. This work provides a general and economically viable approach for the large-scale synthesis of acid-base bi-functional MOFs for their potential use in catalysis field.
Improved Thermal Conductivities of Epoxy Resins Containing Surface Functionalized BN Nanosheets
Authors: Weng Ling , Wang HeBing , Zhang Xiaorui , Liu Lizhu , Zhang Hexin
Published: October 2018

The hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets (BN) were firstly treated by silane coupling agents 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (KH550) and 3-glycidoxypropyl-trimethoxysilane (KH560) to introduce some amino and epoxy (EP) groups on the BN surface. These modified BN nanosheets were incorporated into an EP matrix to prepare BN@KH560/EP composites with excellent thermal conductivity and electrical insulation properties. Results showed that the thermal conductivity of BN@KH560/EP composite with 20[Formula: see text]vol% BN dosage was found to be 0.442[Formula: see text]W/(m[Formula: see text]K), which was 81% higher than that of pure EP resin. Both BN/EP composites treated by KH550 and KH560 showed rather good electrical insulation properties, although the dielectric constant of BN@KH550/EP composites were slightly higher than BN@KH560/EP composites. Moreover, BN@KH560/EP composites also showed better thermal and mechanical properties than that of BN@KH550/EP composites.
Effect of scale-varying fractional-order stochastic resonance by simulation and its application in bearing diagnosis
Authors: Chi Kuo , Kang Jianshe , Zhang Xinghui , Zhao Fei
Published: October 2018

Bearing is among the most widely used components in rotating machinery. Its failure can cause serious economic losses or even disasters. However, the fault-induced impulses are weak especially for the early failure. As to the bearing fault diagnosis, a novel bearing diagnosis method based on scale-varying fractional-order stochastic resonance (SFrSR) is proposed. Signal-to-noise ratio of the SFrSR output is regarded as the criterion for evaluating the stochastic resonance (SR) output. In the proposed method, by selecting the proper parameters (integration step [Formula: see text], amplitude gain [Formula: see text] and fractional-order [Formula: see text]) of SFrSR, the weak fault-induced impulses, the noise and the potential can be matched with each other. An optimal fractional-order dynamic system can be generated. To verify the proposed SFrSR, numerical tests and application verification are conducted in comparison with the traditional scale-varying first-order SR (SFiSR). The results prove that the parameters [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] affect the SFrSR effect seriously and the proposed SFrSR can enhance the weak signal while suppressing the noise. The SFrSR is more effective for bearing fault diagnosis than SFiSR.
One method for the boundary value problem eigenvalues calcuating for a second-order differential equation with a fractional derivative
Authors: Aleroev Temirkhan , Aleroeva Hedi , Kirianova Lyudmila
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we give a formula for computing the eigenvalues of the Dirichlet problem for a differential equation of second-order with fractional derivatives in the lower terms. We obtained this formula using the perturbation theory for linear operators. Using this formula we can write out the system of eigenvalues for the problem under consideration.
James Robert Temple Hazell: A Pioneer of African Hydrogeology
Authors: Adekile Dotun , Carter Richard
Published: October 2018

James Robert Temple Hazell, known to many as Robin Hazell, passed away in March 2017, in Bodmin, Cornwall, aged 89, after a professional life spanning close to 70 years. Robin's main contributions addressed the exploration for and development of groundwater especially in hard rock areas. Much of this work was undertaken in the country of his first overseas posting, Nigeria, and was primarily spent in the field. He started his career in south and east Nigeria mapping groundwater resources and uncovering links between geology, baseflow and the likelihood of surface water being contaminated. In northern Nigeria he developed conceptual models for how groundwater existed in fractured rocks, and the importance of mineralogy and fractures, and used this knowledge to help site many thousands of successful boreholes. Perhaps Robin's greatest legacy, however, was his generosity in teaching and mentoring other hydrogeologists. Robin's last public contribution was his paper at the conference on Groundwater in Fractured Rocks, the subject of this Special Publication.
Eyewitness Science and the Legal System
Authors: Loftus Elizabeth F.
Published: October 2018

For more than four decades, I have been studying the malleable nature of human memory. For most of this time period, I have also played a role as a consultant or expert in many legal cases that hinged on eyewitness testimony or other memory evidence. Here I describe some of the science that reveals how error prone eyewitnesses can be. Getting the legal field to recognize potential problems with memory evidence, and taking steps to solve those problems, has been a continuing struggle. It is a success story worth sharing.
The Use of Case Studies in Law and Social Science Research
Authors: Miller Lisa L.
Published: October 2018

This article reviews classic and contemporary case study research in law and social science. Taking as its starting point that legal scholars engaged in case studies generally have a set of questions distinct from those using other research approaches, the essay offers a detailed discussion of three primary contributions of case studies in legal scholarship: theory building, concept formation, and processes/mechanisms. The essay describes the role of case studies in social scientific work and their express value to legal scholars, and offers specific descriptions from classic and contemporary works.
Finite‐Time H2/H∞ Control for Linear Itô Stochastic Systems with (x, u, v)‐Dependent Noise
Authors: Yan Zhiguo , Zhong Shiyu , Liu Xingping
Published: October 2018

This paper deals with the problem of the H2/H∞ control based on finite‐time boundedness for linear stochastic systems. The motivation for investigating this problem comes from one observation that the H2/H∞ control does not involve systems’ transient performance. To express this problem clearly, a concept called finite‐time H2/H∞ control is introduced. Moreover, state feedback and observer‐based finite‐time H2/H∞ controllers are designed, which guarantee finite‐time boundedness, H2 performance index, and H∞ performance index of the closed‐loop systems. Furthermore, an optimization algorithm on the finite‐time H2/H∞ control is presented to obtain the minimum values of the H2 index and H∞ index. Finally, we use an example to show the validity of the obtained results.
The Existence of Strong Solutions for a Class of Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Zhang Junfei
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we will consider the existence of a strong solution for stochastic differential equations with discontinuous drift coefficients. More precisely, we study a class of stochastic differential equations when the drift coefficients are an increasing function instead of Lipschitz continuous or continuous. The main tools of this paper are the lower solutions and upper solutions of stochastic differential equations.
Graphene Membrane as Suspended Mask for Lithography
Authors: Amato Giampiero , Greco Angelo , Vittone Ettore
Published: October 2018

Thanks to its excellent mechanical properties, graphene is particularly suited for the realization of suspended membranes. The present paper deals with one possible application of such membranes that is the realization of suspended lithographic masks for shadow evaporation onto a substrate. This technique, which is largely used for realizing mesoscopic devices, where the quality requirements for the junctions prevent the exposure to ambient air and the occurrence of quantum phenomena requires highly defined structures, can be improved by the use of pure 2-dimensional masks, like graphene ones. Advantages and differences of this material with respect to commonly employed polymers are presented and discussed.
Nail Involvement in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis in Northern Iran
Authors: Zargari O. , Leyli E. Kazemnezhad , Azimi S. Z.
Published: October 2018

Background. Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) results in an increased burden of psoriasis and impairs both quality of life and an individual’s functional capacity. The relationship between nail involvement and PsA in psoriasis is not fully characterized. Aim. To evaluate the frequency and characteristics of nail involvement in psoriatic patients and to assess the relationship with joint involvement. Methods. A total of 197 patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis were consecutively invited to participate in this cross-sectional study. The patients are divided into two groups: those with and those without psoriatic arthritis. Results. 69.5% of psoriatic (137 out of 197) patients had nail involvement. The most common nail abnormality was onycholysis, followed by pitting and oil droplet changes. Nail involvement was more common in patients with psoriatic arthritis (82.1% versus 57.8%, p=0.001). Conclusion. Nail involvement is commonly associated with PsA. Onycholysis, splinter hemorrhage, and oil drop were significantly more common in the PsA group as opposed to patients with just skin findings. In general, psoriatic patients with arthritis had more severe disease.
Validation of a Modified Triage Scale in a Norwegian Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Engan Mette , Hirth Asle , Trønnes Håvard
Published: October 2018

Objective. Triage is a tool developed to identify patients who need immediate care and those who can safely wait. The aim of this study was to assess the validity and interrater reliability of a modified version of the pediatric South African triage scale (pSATS) in a single-center tertiary pediatric emergency department in Norway. Methods. This prospective, observational study included all patients with medical conditions, referred to the pediatric emergency department of a tertiary hospital in Norway from September 1, 2015, to November 17, 2015. Their assigned triage priority was compared with rate of hospitalization and resource utilization. Validity parameters were sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and percentage of over- and undertriage. Interrater agreement and accuracy of the triage ratings were calculated from triage performed by nurses on written case scenarios. Results. During the study period, 1171 patients arrived at the hospital for emergency assessment. A total of 790 patients (67 %) were triaged and included in the study. The percentage of hospital admission increased with increasing level of urgency, from 30 % of the patients triaged to priority green to 81 % of those triaged to priority red. The sensitivity was 74 %, the specificity was 48 %, the positive predictive value was 52 %, and the negative predictive value was 70 % for predicting hospitalization. The level of over- and undertriage was 52 % and 26 %, respectively. Resource utilization correlated with higher triage priority. The interrater agreement had an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.99 by Cronbach’s alpha, and the accuracy was 92 %. Conclusions. The modified pSATS had a moderate sensitivity and specificity but showed good correlation with resource utilization. The nurses demonstrated excellent interrater agreement and accuracy when triaging written case scenarios.
Supply Chain Partner Selection under Cloud Computing Environment: An Improved Approach Based on BWM and VIKOR
Authors: Liu Sen , Hu Yanan , Zhang Yingying
Published: October 2018

The wide application of cloud computing technology makes supply chain partner share information effectively and increase corporate profits. However, in cloud computing environment, the evaluation process of supply chain partner selection is dynamic and fuzzy, and its evaluation index is uncertain. To solve these problems, this paper proposes a new method combed with rough number, best-worst multicriteria decision-making method (BWM), and compromise ranking method (VIKOR). Firstly, Rough number is used to integrate data from different evaluation matrix. Secondly, rough number improves a new method, BWM, to get RBWM criteria weight methods. Thirdly, the rough numbers are introduced into VIKOR and combined with RBWM to evaluate and sort the supply chain partners. Finally, an example is given to demonstrate the rationality and feasibility of the method.
Characterization of Flow Separation around Inline Cylinders within Oscillatory Flow
Authors: Zhao Yiding , Shi Yao
Published: October 2018

This paper has examined the effects of Reynolds number (Re), Keulegan–Carpenter number (KC), and gap ratio on flow separation around a cylinder array by PIV method in experiment. The vortex shedding in such situation occurs each half period of the oscillatory motion from the observation. No matter how many cylinders, KC is the key dominant parameter under low Re that has a great impact on the flow regime and flow motion in oscillatory flows. There is an influence area of vortex shedding around the cylinder. When two inline cylinders are in the flow, smaller gap ratio may extend the influence area of the vortex shedding. For s/d = 2, the vortex shedding that happens in each cylinder has a simultaneity and independence. For s/d = 1.5, the reduced gap ratio leads the upstream shed vortex to interact with downstream cylinder and makes the influence area of vortex shedding around downstream cylinder extends further. For s/d = 1, the interference in the central area is significantly obvious and the vortex shedding is suppressed and even follows the cross gap flow.
Theoretical Comparison of the Effects of Different Traffic Conditions on Urban Road Traffic Noise
Authors: Maghrour Zefreh Mohammad , Torok Adam
Published: October 2018

Road traffic noise is one of the most relevant sources in the environmental noise pollution of the urban areas where dynamics of the traffic flow are much more complicated than uninterrupted traffic flows. It is evident that different traffic conditions would play the role in the urban traffic flow considering the dynamic nature of the traffic flow on one hand and presence of traffic lights, roundabouts, etc. on the other hand. The main aim of the current paper is to investigate the effect of different traffic conditions on urban road traffic noise. To do so, different traffic conditions have been theoretically generated by the Monte Carlo Simulation technique following the distribution of traffic speed in the urban roads. The “ASJ RTN-Model” has been considered as a base road traffic noise prediction model which would deal with different traffic conditions including steady and nonsteady traffic flow that would cover the urban traffic flow conditions properly. Having generated the vehicles speeds in different traffic conditions, the emitted noise (LWA) and subsequently the noise level at receiver (LA) were estimated by “ASJ RTN-Model.” Having estimated LWA and LA for each and every vehicle in each traffic condition and taking the concept of transient noise into account, the single event sound exposure levels (SEL) in different traffic conditions are calculated and compared to each other. The results showed that decelerated traffic flow had the lowest contribution, compared to congestion, accelerated flow, free flow, oversaturated congestion, and undersaturated flow by 16%, 14%, 12%, 12%, and 10%, respectively. Moreover, the distribution of emitted noise and noise level at receiver were compared in different traffic conditions. The results showed that traffic congestion had considerably the maximum peak compared to other traffic conditions which would highlight the importance of the range of generated noise in different traffic conditions.
Dynamic Prediction Research of Silicon Content in Hot Metal Driven by Big Data in Blast Furnace Smelting Process under Hadoop Cloud Platform
Authors: Han Yang , Li Jie , Yang Xiao-Lei , Liu Wei-Xing , Zhang Yu-Zhu
Published: October 2018

In order to explore a dynamic prediction model with good generalization performance of the content of [Si] in molten iron, an improved SVM algorithm is proposed to enhance its practicability in the big data sample set of the smelting process. Firstly, we propose a parallelization scheme to design an SVM solution algorithm based on the MapReduce model under a Hadoop platform to improve the solution speed of the SVM on big data sample sets. Secondly, based on the characteristics of stochastic subgradient projection, the execution time of the SVM solver algorithm does not depend on the size of the sample set, and a structured SVM algorithm based on the neighbor propagation algorithm is proposed, and on this basis, a parallel algorithm for solving the covariance matrix of the training set and a parallel algorithm of the tth iteration of the random subgradient projection are designed. Finally, the historical production big data of No. 1 blast furnace in Tangshan Iron Works II was analyzed during 2015.12.01~2016.11.30 using the reaction mechanism, control mechanism, and gray correlation model in the process of blast furnace iron‐making, an essential sample set with input [x1(k), x2(k − 3), x3(k − 3), …, x18(k), x19(k − 1)] and output [Si](k + 1) is constructed, and the dynamic prediction model of the content of [Si] in molten iron and the dynamic prediction model of [Si] fluctuation in the molten iron are obtained on the Hadoop platform by means of the structure and parallelized SVM solving algorithm. The results of the research show that the structural and parallel SVM algorithms in the hot metal [Si] content value dynamic prediction hit rate and lifting dynamic prediction hit rate were 91.2% and 92.2%, respectively. Two kinds of dynamic prediction algorithms based on structure and parallelization are 54 times and 5 times faster than traditional serial solving algorithms.
Zerumbone-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Induces Apoptosis of Canine Mammary Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Foong Jia Ning , Selvarajah Gayathri Thevi , Rasedee Abdullah , Rahman Heshu Sulaiman , How Chee Wun , Beh Chaw Yee , Teo Guan Young , Ku Chi Ling
Published: October 2018

Canine mammary gland tumor (CMT) is the most common tumor in intact female dog. Zerumbone (ZER) has promising anticancer properties, but plagued with poor water solubility, poor absorption, bioavailability, and delivery to target tissues. To solubilize, ZER was loaded into nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) to produce ZER-loaded NLC (ZER-NLC). The objectives of this study were to determine the antiproliferative effect and the mode of cell death induced by ZER-NLC and ZER on a canine mammary gland tumor (CMT) adenocarcinoma primary cell line. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between ZER-NLC and ZER treatments in the inhibition of CMT cell proliferation; thus, the loading of ZER into NLC did not compromise the cytotoxic effect of ZER. Microscopically, ZER-NLC- and ZER-treated CMT cells showed apoptotic cell morphology. ZER-NLC and ZER treatments significantly downregulated the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 and upregulated the proapoptotic Bax gene expressions in CMT cells. Both ZER-NLC and ZER-treated CMT cells showed significant (p<0.0001) increases in caspase-8, -9, and -3/7 protein activities. In conclusion, ZER-NLC induced CMT cell death via regulation of Bcl-2 and Bax gene expressions and caspase activations, indicating the involvement of both the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis. This study provided evidences for the potential of ZER-NLC as an anticanine mammary gland adenocarcinoma chemotherapy.
Effect of Ca Concentration on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of As‐Cast and As‐Extruded Quasicrystal‐Strengthened Mg‐7.2Zn‐2.4Gd Alloy
Authors: Sun Jianchun , Ma Yilong , Miao Hongwei , Li Kejian , Li Chunhong , Huang Hua
Published: October 2018

Quasicrystal‐strengthened Mg‐Zn‐RE (RE = rare‐earth element) alloys have been investigated extensively due to their excellent mechanical properties. Here, we prepare quasicrystal‐strengthened Mg‐7.2Zn‐2.4Gd (wt.%) alloy with different concentrations of Ca addition (0, 0.16, 0.32, and 0.64 wt.%) by traditional gravity casting, followed by extrusion at 573 K with the extrusion ratio of 9 : 1. The microstructure and room temperature tensile properties of as‐cast and as‐extruded alloys are characterized. With the addition of the trace amount of Ca, the I‐phase tends to transfer into W‐phase due to the appearance of Mg2Ca and Mg6Zn3Ca2. As a consequence, the mechanical properties of the as‐cast Ca containing alloys are downgraded. After extrusion, in comparison to the as‐cast alloys, microstructure of the four types of alloys is refined and mechanical property is enhanced greatly. With the increasing of Ca concentration, the grain size is decreased gradually. However, the yield strength of the alloys is decreased to about 230 MPa and then up to 269 MPa, while the elongation increases first from 12.9% to 13.6% yet then decreases to 9.9%.
Minor Structures for the Improvement of Wave Disturbance in a Small Harbor
Authors: Sulis A.
Published: October 2018

A very important aspect in the planning, design, and maintenance of a harbor is to determine the response of the harbor basin to incident waves. The Saras harbor in South Sardinia (Italy) has been experiencing significant wave disturbance that affects the safety of mooring and operational activities. In the framework of a large research, this paper summarises a comprehensive description of new energy absorbing structures that can be seen as an efficient alternative to more traditional structures when limited by economic or technical constraints. Specifically, the paper presents the results of a graphical preliminary approach and a numerical modelling that solves the enhanced Boussinesq equations in two horizontal dimensions.
Plexiform Schwannoma of the Tongue in a Pediatric Patient with Neurofibromatosis Type 2: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Amer Samir M. , Ukudeyeva Aijan , Pine Harold S. , Campbell Gerald A. , Clement Cecilia G.
Published: October 2018

Introduction. Plexiform schwannoma is a rare variant of schwannoma that accounts for only 5% of all schwannomas. Herein, we present a rare case of plexiform schwannoma of the tongue in a pediatric patient with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2).Case Presentation. A 13-year-old female presented with a growing left-sided tongue mass. The patient has a past medical history of NF2. The tongue mass was excised and histopathological examination revealed a spindle cell tumor with multinodular growth pattern, with Verocay bodies' formation. Tumor cells were strongly positive for S-100 protein and negative for smooth muscle actin (SMA), and EMA highlighted perineural fibroblasts surrounding tumor nodules. These findings were diagnostic of plexiform schwannoma.Conclusion. Plexiform schwannoma of the tongue is an extremely rare tumor seen in patients with NF2. Clinical examination and histopathological evaluation are important for diagnosis of plexiform schwannoma.
Plasma Exchange Can Be an Alternative Therapeutic Modality for Severe Cytokine Release Syndrome after Chimeric Antigen Receptor-T Cell Infusion: A Case Report
Authors: Xiao Xia , He Xiaoyuan , Li Qing , Zhang Huan , Meng Juanxia , Jiang Yanyu , Deng Qi , Zhao Mingfeng
Published: October 2018

Background:

Tumor immunotherapy with chimeric antigen receptor-T cells (CAR-T) is a promising new treatment for B-cell malignancies and has produced exciting results. However, cytokine release syndrome (CRS) is the most significant toxicity associated with this treatment and can be life-threatening.

Case Presentation:

A 23-year-old male patient had been diagnosed with relapsed and refractory B-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia. The patient was recruited into our CAR-T clinical trial, and 1 × 106/kg of engineered anti-CD19 CAR-T cells was administered. After infusion of CAR-T cells (day 0), the patient underwent a typical CRS reaction, with increases in fever, muscle soreness, and inflammatory cytokines. He was treated with antiallergic and antipyretic drugs, glucocorticoids, and tocilizumab (4 mg/kg, days 3 and 5). However, CRS was not under control, and his condition rapidly deteriorated. He was transferred to the intensive care unit, where dexamethasone 10 mg q6h was administered, and plasma exchange was performed, with 3,000 mL of plasma replaced by fresh frozen plasma per day for 3 consecutive days. His symptoms gradually improved, and the CRS-related symptoms were relieved. Additionally, a bone marrow smear showed no lymphoblast cells, and minimal residual disease was negative on day 28. The patient was eventually discharged in a normal condition.

Conclusions:

CRS is caused by an exaggerated systemic immune response, potentially resulting in organ damage that can be fatal. Although therapeutic plasma exchange is not included in CRS management guidelines, this case shows that plasma exchange is feasible in at least some patients with severe CRS.
Ketoconazole and Posaconazole Selectively Target HK2-expressing Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Agnihotri Sameer , Mansouri Sheila , Burrell Kelly , Li Mira , Mamatjan Yasin , Liu Jeff , Nejad Romina , Kumar Sushil , Jalali Shahrzad , Singh Sanjay K. , Vartanian Alenoush , Chen Eric Xueyu , Karimi Shirin , Singh Olivia , Bunda Severa , Mansouri Alireza , Aldape Kenneth D. , Zadeh Gelareh
Published: October 2018

Purpose:

Hexokinase II (HK2) protein expression is elevated in glioblastoma (GBM), and we have shown that HK2 could serve as an effective therapeutic target for GBM. Here, we interrogated compounds that target HK2 effectively and restrict tumor growth in cell lines, patient-derived glioma stem cells (GSCs), and mouse models of GBM.

Experimental Design: We performed a screen using a set of 15 drugs that were predicted to inhibit the HK2-associated gene signature. We next determined the EC50 of the compounds by treating glioma cell lines and GSCs. Selected compounds showing significant impact in vitro were used to treat mice and examine their effect on survival and tumor characteristics. The effect of compounds on the metabolic activity in glioma cells was also assessed in vitro.

Results:

This screen identified the azole class of antifungals as inhibitors of tumor metabolism. Among the compounds tested, ketoconazole and posaconazole displayed the greatest inhibitory effect on GBM both in vitro and in vivo. Treatment of mice bearing GBM with ketoconazole and posaconazole increased their survival, reduced tumor cell proliferation, and decreased tumor metabolism. In addition, treatment with azoles resulted in increased proportion of apoptotic cells.

Conclusions:

Overall, we provide evidence that azoles exert their effect by targeting genes and pathways regulated by HK2. These findings shed light on the action of azoles in GBM. Combined with existing literature and preclinical results, these data support the value of repurposing azoles in GBM clinical trials.
The Increased Expression of Estrogen-Related Receptor α Correlates with Wnt5a and Poor Prognosis in Patients with Glioma
Authors: Zhang Liudi , Zhu Yingfeng , Cheng Haixia , Zhang Jinsen , Zhu Yuqian , Chen Haifei , Chen Lu , Qi Huijie , Ren Guoqiang , Tang Jianmin , Zhong Mingkang , Hua Wei , Shi Xiaojin , Li Qunyi
Published: October 2018

Malignant glioma is an often fatal type of cancer. Elevated expression of the orphan nuclear receptor estrogen-related receptor alpha (ERRα) is an unfavorable factor for malignant progression and poor prognosis in several cancers, although the mechanism by which this receptor affects the pathophysiology of cancers remains obscure. However, few studies have been conducted in regard to the role of ERRα in glioma. In the current study, we found that elevated expression of ERRα was observed in 107 glioma cases by means of IHC. Clinically, high expression of ERRα was associated with later stages of disease progression and clinical outcome of patients with glioma. ERRα had the ability to promote cell proliferation and migration in glioma cell lines. Moreover, in a xenograft model, we also found that silencing ERRα had an inhibitory effect on the growth of glioma. Further investigation confirmed that ERRα was involved in the carcinogenesis of glioma via the regulation of the Wnt5a signal pathway in vitro and in vivo. Our study was first to show the overexpression of ERRα in glioma tissues and a direct correlation between ERRα expression and clinical prognosis of glioma. Together, these data reveal that ERRα has prognostic significance in glioma, and targeting ERRα may provide a reliable therapeutic strategy for the treatment for human glioma.
KRAS and EGFR Amplifications Mediate Resistance to Rociletinib and Osimertinib in Acquired Afatinib-Resistant NSCLC Harboring Exon 19 Deletion/T790M in EGFR
Authors: Nakatani Kaori , Yamaoka Toshimitsu , Ohba Motoi , Fujita Ken-Ichi , Arata Satoru , Kusumoto Sojiro , Taki-Takemoto Iori , Kamei Daisuke , Iwai Shinichi , Tsurutani Junji , Ohmori Tohru
Published: October 2018

The critical T790M mutation in EGFR, which mediates resistance to first- and second-generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI; gefitinib, erlotinib, and afatinib), has facilitated the development of third-generation mutation-selective EGFR TKIs (rociletinib and osimertinib). We previously reported heterogeneous afatinib-resistant mechanisms, including emergence of T790M-EGFR, and responses to third-generation EGFR TKIs. Here, we used afatinib-resistant lung adenocarcinoma cells [AfaR (formerly AFR3) cells], carrying exon 19 deletion/T790M in EGFR. To identify the novel resistance mechanisms in post-afatinib treatment, RocR1/RocR2 and OsiR1/OsiR2 cells were established using increasing concentrations of rociletinib and osimertinib, respectively. Attenuation of exon 19 deletion and T790M was confirmed in both rociletinib-resistant cells; in addition, EGFR and KRAS amplification was observed in RocR1 and RocR2, respectively. Significant KRAS amplification was observed in the osimertinib-resistant cell lines, indicating a linear and reversible increase with increased osimertinib concentrations in OsiR1 and OsiR2 cells. OsiR1 cells maintained osimertinib resistance with KRAS amplification after osimertinib withdrawal for 2 months. OsiR2 cells exhibited KRAS attenuation, and osimertinib sensitivity was entirely recovered. Phospho-EGFR (Y1068) and growth factor receptor–bound protein 2 (GRB2)/son of sevenless homolog 1 (SOS1) complex was found to mediate osimertinib resistance in OsiR1 cells with sustained KRAS activation. After 2 months of osimertinib withdrawal, this complex was dissociated, and the EGFR signal, but not the GRB2/SOS1 signal, was activated. Concomitant inhibition of MAPK kinase and EGFR could overcome osimertinib resistance. Thus, we identified a heterogeneous acquired resistance mechanism for third-generation EGFR TKIs, providing insights into the development of novel treatment strategies.
Lack of Suppression of Aldosterone Production Leads to Salt-Sensitive Hypertension in Female but Not Male Balb/C Mice
Authors: Faulkner Jessica L. , Harwood Daisy , Bender Lily , Shrestha Lenee , Brands Michael W. , Morwitzer M. Jane , Kennard Simone , Antonova Galina , Belin de Chantemèle Eric J.
Published: October 2018

Clinical studies indicate that salt-sensitive hypertension is more prevalent in women than in men. However, animal models of salt sensitivity have primarily focused on the mechanisms of salt sensitivity in male animals; therefore, elucidation of these mechanisms in female animal models is needed. We have previously shown that female Balb/C mice have higher aldosterone synthase expression and aldosterone production than males. We hypothesized that female Balb/C mice develop salt-sensitive increases in blood pressure. Seven-day feeding of a 4% NaCl high-salt (HS) diet increased blood pressure in female mice without altering blood pressure in males. Females on an HS diet displayed no apparent increases in sodium retention as assessed by 24-hour urine collection, sodium balance measure, and saline loading excretion analysis. Females on an HS diet exhibited lower renin-angiotensin system activity (plasma Ang II [angiotensin II], plasma renin activity, and ACE [angiotensin-converting enzyme] activity) compared with males but developed a salt-induced elevation in adrenal aldosterone synthase expression and retained higher aldosterone levels than males on HS. This resulted in a higher aldosterone/plasma renin activity ratio in females compared with males on HS feeding. Adrenal mRNA expression of angiotensinogen and leptin receptor was increased in female mice on an HS diet. HS impaired endothelium-dependent relaxation in female mice only. MR (mineralocorticoid receptor) inhibition (eplerenone) restored blood pressure and endothelial function in females on an HS diet. Collectively, these data indicate that Balb/C mice develop sex-discrepant salt-sensitive hypertension likely via aldosterone-MR–mediated mechanisms involving impaired endothelium-dependent relaxation in females only. This study presents the first model of spontaneous sex-specific salt sensitivity, which mimics the human pathology.
Preeclampsia Prevention Using Routine Versus Screening Test–Indicated Aspirin in Low-Risk Women
Authors: Mone Fionnuala , O’Mahony James F. , Tyrrell Ella , Mulcahy Cecilia , McParland Peter , Breathnach Fionnuala , Morrison John J. , Higgins John , Daly Sean , Cotter Amanda , Hunter Alyson , Dicker Patrick , Tully Elizabeth , Malone Fergal D. , Normand Charles , McAuliffe Fionnuala M.
Published: October 2018

The objective was to evaluate whether routine aspirin 75 mg is more cost-effective than the Fetal Medicine Foundation screen-and-treat approach for preeclampsia prevention in low-risk nulliparous women. A health economic decision analytical model was devised to estimate the discounted net health and cost outcomes of routine aspirin versus Fetal Medicine Foundation screening test–indicated aspirin for a cohort of 100 000 low-risk nulliparous women. Both strategies were compared with no intervention. A subanalysis also compared disaggregated components of the algorithm. The analysis used data from hospital administration, literature, and a randomized controlled trial. Sensitivity analyses assessed the impact of aspirin adherence, test cost, and accuracy on study results. Presumed rates of preeclampsia were 3.75% with no intervention versus 0.45% with aspirin use. Results found that routine aspirin was the preferred strategy, in terms of greater health gains and larger cost savings. It provided 163 quality-adjusted life-years relative to no intervention, whereas the screen-and-treat policy achieved 108 quality-adjusted life-years. Routine aspirin would result in an estimated cost saving of €14.9 million annually relative to no intervention, whereas screen-and-treat approach would result in a smaller cost saving of €3.1 million. When the analysis was extended to consider alternative screen-and-treat strategies, routine aspirin remained the optimally cost-effective approach. In conclusion, routine aspirin use in low-risk nulliparous women has a greater health gain and cost saving compared with both the Fetal Medicine Foundation and other screen-and-treat approaches.
Neuroregeneration and Vascular Protection by Citalopram in Acute Ischemic Stroke (TALOS)
Authors: Kraglund Kristian Lundsgaard , Mortensen Janne Kaergaard , Damsbo Andreas Gammelgaard , Modrau Boris , Simonsen Sofie Amalie , Iversen Helle Klingenberg , Madsen Morten , Grove Erik Lerkevang , Johnsen Søren Paaske , Andersen Grethe
Published: October 2018

Background and Purpose—

Recent studies indicate a possible beneficial effect on neuroregeneration and vascular protection of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors after stroke. We conducted a national multicentre study to explore these effects.

Methods—

The TALOS study (The Efficacy of Citalopram Treatment in Acute Stroke) is a Danish placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind study of citalopram started within 7 days after symptom onset to detect improvement in functional outcomes and cardiovascular protection in nondepressed, first-ever ischemic stroke. Study medication was given as add-on to standard medical care and treatment duration and follow-up was 6 months. There were 2 coprimary outcomes: changes in functional disability from 1 to 6 months on the modified Rankin Scale, and a composite vascular end point of transient ischemic attack/stroke, myocardial infarction, or vascular mortality during the first 6 months.

Results—

We enrolled 642 patients randomized to either citalopram (n=319) or placebo (n=323). Median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was 5.3 (range, 0–27) versus 4.8 (range, 0–28) at admission. Improvement in functional recovery from 1 to 6 months occurred in 160 (50%) patients on citalopram and 136 (42%) on placebo (odds ratio, 1.27; 95% CI, 0.92–1.74;
P
=0.057). When dropouts before 31 days were excluded (n=90), the analysis population showed an odds ratio of 1.37 (95% CI, 0.97–1.91;
P
=0.07). During a median follow-up of 150 days, 23 (7%) patients in the citalopram group and 26 (8%) patients in the placebo group had a primary, vascular end point (hazard ratio, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.50–1.60;
P
=0.24). A total of 28 patients (4%) died (16 versus 12;
P
=0.42) during the study.

Conclusions—

Early citalopram treatment did not improve functional recovery in nondepressed ischemic stroke patients within the first 6 months, although a borderline statistical significant effect was observed in the analysis population. The risk of cardiovascular events was similar between treatment groups, and citalopram treatment was well tolerated.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01937182. URL:
https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/
. EudraCT number: 2013-002253-30.