bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electroacupuncture Preconditioning Improves Myocardial Infarction Injury via Enhancing AMPK-Dependent Autophagy in Rats
Authors: Zeng Qing , He He , Wang Xian-Bao , Zhou Yu-Qing , Lin Hong-Xin , Tan Zhi-Peng , He Shang-Fei , Huang Guo-Zhi
Published: August 2018

Background. Electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment plays a protective role in myocardial infarction injury. However, the mechanism of electroacupuncture remains unknown. The aim of this study was to confirm the protective effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on myocardial infarction injury and the possible mechanism. Methods. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, used to serve as acute myocardial infarction (AMI) model, were divided into sham group, model (M) group, M+EA group, AMPK inhibitor Compound C (M+EA+CC), and AMPK inhibitor solvent control (M+EA+DMSO) group, respectively. Rats in EA group were pretreated with EA and those in M+EA+CC group with intravenous AMPK inhibitor Compound C. The myocardial morphological changes and infarct size were observed through HE staining and TTC staining, and the concentrations of CK-MB and LDH were detected using ELISA kits. Transmission electron microscopy was employed to observe the autophagosome formation, and the AMPK-dependent autophagy-related protein expression was detected by immunohistochemistry and western blot. Results. EA could alleviate myocardial infarction injury and decrease the concentrations of CK-MB and LDH. Transmission electron microscopy showed that EA could also regulate the AMPK-dependent autophagosome formation and the AMPK-dependent autophagy-related protein expression. AMPK inhibitor Compound C could impair the effect of EA through regulating the concentrations of CK-MB and LDH, autophagosome formation, and autophagy-related protein expression. Conclusion. These results indicated that electroacupuncture could improve myocardial infarction injury and induce autophagy, and AMPK-dependent autophagy might be involved in this process.
Does Urban Rail Transit Discourage People from Owning and Using Cars? Evidence from Beijing, China
Authors: Liu Shasha , Yao Enjian , Yamamoto Toshiyuki
Published: August 2018

With the rapid urbanization and motorization, many cities are developing urban rail transit (URT) to reduce car dependence. This paper explores the URT effect on car ownership and use based on the home-based work tour data in Beijing, China. Considering the mediating effects of car ownership and travel distance simultaneously, we develop a structural equation model to examine the complex relationship among URT, car ownership, travel distance, and car use. The results indicate that URT plays an important role in reducing car dependence. Living within URT catchment areas by itself is not significantly associated with car ownership and use, but if the workplace is near a URT station, people are less likely to own and use cars. People who both live and work near URT station areas have lower probability of owning and using cars. Moreover, car ownership and travel distance mediate the relationship between URT and car use, and the mediating effect of car ownership is greater than travel distance. Our study verifies that URT does discourage people from owning and using cars, which may have important implications for developing cities to make response to the ongoing motorization.
Exact and Heuristic Methods for Observing Task-Oriented Satellite Cluster Agent Team Formation
Authors: Chen Hao , Yang Shu , Li Jun , Jing Ning
Published: August 2018

With the development of aerospace science and technology, Earth Observation Satellite cluster which consists of heterogeneous satellites with many kinds of payloads appears gradually. Compared with the traditional satellite systems, satellite cluster has some particular characteristics, such as large-scale, heterogeneous satellite platforms, various payloads, and the capacity of performing all the observation tasks. How to select a subset from satellite cluster to perform all observation tasks effectively with low cost is a new challenge arousing in the field of aerospace resource scheduling. This is the agent team formation problem for observation task-oriented satellite cluster. A mathematical scheduling model is built. Three novel algorithms, i.e., complete search algorithm, heuristic search algorithm, and swarm intelligence optimization algorithm, are proposed to solve the problem in different scales. Finally, some experiments are conducted to validate the effectiveness and practicability of our algorithms.
Nonlocal Inadvertent Weather Modification Associated with Wind Farms in the Central United States
Authors: Lauridsen Matthew J. , Ancell Brian C.
Published: August 2018

Local effects of inadvertent weather changes within and near wind farms have been well documented by a number of modeling studies and observational campaigns; however, the broader nonlocal atmospheric effects of wind farms are much less clear. The goal of this study is to determine whether wind farm-induced perturbations are able to evolve over periods of days, and over areas of thousands of square kilometers, to modify specific atmospheric features that have large impacts on society and the environment, specifically midlatitude and tropical cyclones. Here, an ensemble modeling approach is utilized with a wind farm parameterization to quantify the sensitivity of meteorological variables to the presence of wind farms. The results show that perturbations to nonlocal midlatitude cyclones caused by a wind farm are statistically significant, with magnitudes of roughly 1 hPa for mean sea-level pressure, 4 m/s for surface wind speed, and 15 mm for maximum 30-minute accumulated precipitation. Cyclone perturbation magnitude is also found to be dependent on wind farm size and location relative to the midlatitude cyclone genesis region and track.
Congo Red Decolorization and Detoxification by Aspergillus niger: Removal Mechanisms and Dye Degradation Pathway
Authors: Asses Nedra , Ayed Lamia , Hkiri Neila , Hamdi Moktar
Published: August 2018

Congo red is one of the best known and used azo dyes which has two azo bonds (-N=N-) chromophore in its molecular structure. Its structural stability makes it highly toxic and resistant to biodegradation. The objective of this study was to assess the congo red biodegradation and detoxification by Aspergillus niger. The effects of pH, initial dye concentration, temperature, and shaking speed on the decolorization rate and enzymes production were studied. The maximum decolorization was correlated with lignin peroxidase and manganese peroxidase production. Above 97% were obtained when 2 g mycelia were incubated at pH 5, in presence of 200 mg/L of dye during 6 days at 28°C and under 120 to 150 rpm shaking speed. The degraded metabolites were characterized by using LC-MS/MS analyses and the biodegradation mechanism was also studied. Congo red bioconversion formed degradation metabolites mainly by peroxidases activities, i.e., the sodium naphthalene sulfonate (m/z = 227) and the cycloheptadienylium (m/z = 91). Phytotoxicity and microtoxicity tests confirmed that degradation metabolites were less toxic than original dye.
The Effect of Morinda citrifolia L. Fruit Juice on the Blood Sugar Level and Other Serum Parameters in Patients with Diabetes Type 2
Authors: Algenstaedt Petra , Stumpenhagen Alexandra , Westendorf Johannes
Published: August 2018

Background. The effect of the daily consumption of Morinda citrifolia (Noni) fruit juice on the physiological status of patients with diabetes type 2 (DT2) was tested over a period of two months. Methods. Morinda citrifolia (Noni) fruit juice (NFJ), 2 ml per kg bw per day, was consumed by twenty patients with DT2 after they underwent a standard treatment regimen including carbohydrate reduced diet and treatment with an antidiabetic drug and/or insulin. NFJ consumption started only after no further improvement was achieved. The intake of NFJ was terminated after eight weeks. The fasting blood sugar level was monitored every morning during the entire treatment period. Blood samples were taken before, at, and four and eight weeks after the start of NFJ intake. The analysis of the blood samples included the concentration of blood glucose, HbA1c, C‐peptide, hs‐CRP, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL. Results. The consumption of NFJ by 20 patients with DT2 resulted in a significant mean decrease of the morning blood sugar level monitored over a period of eight weeks. While NFJ reduced the blood glucose level in several but not all hyperglycemic patients, it did not cause hypoglycemia in normoglycemic patients. NFJ consumption also reduced the mean HbA1c value significantly (p= 0.033). Significant decreases (p= 0.01) were also achieved for high sensitive CRP values in patients starting with high levels (>2 mg/L), whereas no change was observed in patients with normal values (< 2 mg/L). The level of C‐peptide showed a significant mean increase after four weeks of NFJ consumption in those patients who started with low levels (<3 μg/l, p=0.004, N=11) but not in patients with higher levels (> 3 μg/L). Conclusion. The daily consumption of NFJ has the potential to regulate elevated blood sugar levels and some other pathological parameters in patients with DT2. NFJ therefore serves as a suitable additive to the diet of diabetic patients.
Correlation between Psychosocial Distress and Quality of Life in Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma following Radiotherapy
Authors: Wang Xiaolan , Lv Yue , Li Wen , Gan Chen , Chen Haijun , Liu Yingying , Chao Herta H. , Li Chiang-Shan R. , Cheng Huaidong
Published: August 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between psychosocial distress and quality of life (QOL) in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) after radiotherapy. Fifty-three patients with an initial diagnosis of NPC were enrolled in this study. The psychological Distress Thermometer (DT) and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Head & Neck (FACT-H&N) were conducted before and after radiotherapy in NPC patients. We compared the differences in psychological distress and QOL before and after radiotherapy and analyzed the correlation between psychological distress and QOL after radiotherapy. The performance on the DT was 6.60 ± 1.42 and 2.81 ± 1.43 before and after chemotherapy, respectively, with a significant difference between the time points (t = -13.73,P< 0.01). The performance on the FACT-H&N was 68.30 ± 6.14 and 39.84 ± 6.14 before and after chemotherapy, respectively, with a significant difference between the time points (t = -19.9,P< 0.01). There was a significant negative correlation between the DT score and the FACT-H&N score (r = -3.64,P< 0.01). Patients with NPC experience different degrees of psychological distress, an important factor that affects quality of life, after radiotherapy.
Cytotoxicity and Antiangiogenic Activity ofTurbinaria ornataAgardh andPadina australisHauck Ethanolic Extracts
Authors: Canoy Jenefa L. , Bitacura Jayzon G.
Published: August 2018

Brown macroalgae species are constantly reported as potential sources of bioactive compounds useful in inhibiting cell proliferation and vascular formation. Thus, this study was conducted to determine and compare thein vitrocytotoxic activities ofTurbinaria ornataAgardh andPadina australisHauck ethanolic extracts against baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) using the resazurin reduction test (RRT) and investigate theirin vivoantiangiogenic activity through duck (Anas platyrhynchos) chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. BothT. ornataandP. australisethanolic extracts exhibited cytotoxic activities at IC50of 530.53 ppm and 528.78 ppm, respectively, and significant cytotoxicity was determined in 750 ppm and 1000 ppm concentrations ofT. ornataand 1000 ppm concentration ofP. australis. Also, bothT. ornataandP. australisethanolic extracts exhibited antiangiogenic activity (100% vascular inhibition) as all the concentrations of both species caused severe vascular damage in all the duck CAM samples treated. These results show the potential future application of these species for cytotoxic activities and vascular inhibition. The conduct of further tests using other model systems is recommended.
Molecular Dynamics Study on Deformation Mechanism of Grain Boundaries in Magnesium Crystal: Based on Coincidence Site Lattice Theory
Authors: Saitoh Ken-ichi , Kuramitsu Kohei , Sato Tomohiro , Takuma Masanori , Takahashi Yoshimasa
Published: August 2018

As for magnesium (Mg) alloys, it has been noted that they are inferior to plastic deformation, but improvement in the mechanical properties by further refinement of grain size has been recently suggested. It means the importance of atomistic view of polycrystalline interface of Mg crystal. In this study, to discuss the deformation mechanism of polycrystalline Mg, atomistic grain boundary (GB) models by using coincidence site lattice (CSL) theory are constructed and are simulated for their relaxed and deformatted structures. First, GB structures in which the axis of rotation is in [11¯00] direction are relaxed at 10 Kelvin, and the GB energies are evaluated. Then, the deformation mechanism of each GB model under uniaxial tensile loading is observed by using the molecular dynamics (MD) method. The present MD simulations are based on embedded atom method (EAM) potential for Mg crystal. As a result, we were able to observe atomistically a variety of GB structures and to recognize significant difference in deformation mechanism between low-angle GBs and high-angle GBs. A close scrutiny is made on phenomena of dislocation emission processes peculiar to each atomistic local structure in high-angle GBs.
Modified Uncertainty Measure of Rough Fuzzy Sets from the Perspective of Fuzzy Distance
Authors: Yang Jie , Xu Taihua , Zhao Fan
Published: August 2018

As an extension of Pawlak’s rough sets, rough fuzzy sets are proposed to deal with fuzzy target concept. As we know, the uncertainty of Pawlak’s rough sets is rooted in the objects contained in the boundary region, while the uncertainty of rough fuzzy sets comes from three regions (positive region, boundary region, and negative region). In addition, in the view of traditional uncertainty measures, the two rough approximation spaces with the same uncertainty are not necessarily equivalent, and they cannot be distinguished. In this paper, firstly, a fuzziness-based uncertainty measure is proposed. Meanwhile, the essence of the uncertainty for rough fuzzy sets and its three regions in a hierarchical granular structure is revealed. Then, from the perspective of fuzzy distance, we introduce a modified uncertainty measure based on the fuzziness-based uncertainty measure and present that our method not only is strictly monotonic with finer approximation spaces, but also can distinguish the two rough approximation spaces with the same uncertainty. Finally, a case study is introduced to demonstrate that the modified uncertainty measure is more suitable for evaluating the significance of attributes. These works are useful for further study on rough sets theory and promote the development of uncertain artificial intelligence.
Effect of Bhramari Pranayama on the Acoustic and Aerodynamic Parameters of Voice in Normophonic Females
Authors: Manjunatha Usha , Bhat Jayashree S. , Radish Kumar B. , Bajaj Gagan , Shruthi Poovitha , Suresh Nayak Priyanka , Rasheeka Saniya Mariam
Published: August 2018

Summary. Objective. Pranayama is known for improving various health conditions. The present study is aimed at investigating the effects of bhramari pranayama on aerodynamic and acoustic parameters of voice in healthy individuals. Study Design. This is a pretest‐posttest design study. Methods. A total of 24 participants in the age range of 20 to 25 years completed the bhramari pranayama regimen for 30 sessions. Aerodynamic and acoustic assessments were done before and after pranayama sessions. Maximum phonation duration, pitch, loudness, subglottal pressure, glottal airflow, laryngeal resistance and conductance along with acoustical parameters such as average F0, jitter, and shimmer, soft phonation index, noise to harmonic ratio, cepstral peak prominence, and smoothened cepstral peak prominence were analysed. Results. The results revealed significant improvement in the maximum phonation duration, glottal airflow and pressure, average fundamental frequency, and cepstral peak prominence after practice suggesting that it has an effect on voice parameters. Conclusion. Bhramari pranayama is effective in improving the acoustic and aerodynamic parameters of voice. The same needs to be investigated in hyper‐ and hypofunctional voice disorders in the future studies.
Phenolic Constituents from Fallopia multiflora (Thunberg) Haraldson
Authors: Nguyen Thi Thoa , Pham Thanh Binh , Thao Nguyen Phuong , Dang Nguyen Hai , Nguyen Van Hung , Pham Van Cuong , Minh Chau Van , Tran Quang Hai , Dat Nguyen Tien
Published: August 2018

Four naphtolic glycosides (1–4), three anthraquinones (5–7), two stilbenes (8-9), one benzyl glycoside (10), and one flavonoid (11) were isolated from the roots of Fallopia multiflora. The new compounds were elucidated to be 6-hydroxymusizin 8-O-α-D-apiofuranosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside (1) and 6-methoxy-3-methyl-1,6,8-trihydroxy-2-naphthoic acid 8-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3). Compound 3 could be an important marker for chemotaxonomy of F. multiflora. Benzyl gentiobioside (10) was isolated for the first time from the family Polygonaceae.
MiR-30a: A Novel Biomarker and Potential Therapeutic Target for Cancer
Authors: Jiang Lin-hong , Zhang He-da , Tang Jin-hai
Published: August 2018

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, highly conserved noncoding RNAs molecules, consisting of 18–25 nucleotides that regulate gene expression by binding to complementary binding sites within the 3′untranslated region (3′UTR) of target mRNAs. MiRNAs have been involved in regulating gene expression and diverse physiological and pathological processes. Several studies have reported that miR-30a, situated on chromosome 6q.13, is produced by an intronic transcriptional unit. Moreover, miR-30a has demonstrated its role in biological processes, including inhibiting proliferation and metastasis in many tumors, autophagy in chronic myelogenous leukemia, and regulating TGF-b1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition. However, based on the pathogenetic relationship between miR-30a and cancer in tumorigenesis, we believe that miR-30a may serve as tumor promising biomarker. Moreover, it would offer a therapeutic target for the treatment of cancer.
Primary Hyperparathyroidism in Pregnancy: Successful Parathyroidectomy during First Trimester
Authors: Tachamo Niranjan , Timilsina Bidhya , Dhital Rashmi , Lynn Theresa , Magaji Vasudev , Gabriely Ilan
Published: August 2018

Primary hyperparathyroidism in pregnancy can result in significant maternal and fetal complications. When indicated, prompt parathyroidectomy in the early second trimester is considered the treatment of choice. Pregnant patients with primary hyperparathyroidism who have an indication for parathyroidectomy during the first trimester represent a therapeutic challenge. We present the case of a 32-year-old primigravida who presented with symptomatic hypercalcemia from her primary hyperparathyroidism. She remained symptomatic despite aggressive conservative management and underwent parathyroidectomy in her first trimester with excellent outcomes.
Effect of Differently Extracted Arabinoxylan on Gluten-Free Sourdough-Bread Properties
Authors: Bender Denisse , Regner Markus , D’Amico Stefano , Jäger Henry , Tömösközi Sándor , Schoenlechner Regine
Published: August 2018

The role of arabinoxylans (AXs) in bread-making has gained interest due to their positive contribution to bread quality. Therefore, the effect of differently extracted (water, alkaline, or enzymatic) rye AXs on gluten-free (GF) buckwheat and millet batter rheology and bread properties was evaluated. The results showed that the addition of AXs influenced most of the batter and bread properties differently, which depended on the chemical and structural properties of the AXs. All batter systems displayed a typical weak gel behavior. Enzyme- (Pentopan Mono BG-) extracted AXs (PEAXs) were able to strengthen both millet and buckwheat batter structures to a greater degree, as seen by the increase in storage modulus. Regarding bread properties, in buckwheat breads, calcium hydroxide-extracted AX (CEAX) was able to improve the specific volume (from 1.73 to 1.93 cm3/g) and firmness (from 10.88 to 4.69 N) the most, compared to the control. The AXs extracted successively with water and the enzyme Pentopan Mono BG (WPEAX) produced the highest loaf volume (2.39 cm3/g) and one of the lowest crumb firmness values (5.51 N) but caused larger pores and a ruptured crust. In millet breads, water-extracted AXs (WEAXs) and CEAX produced lowest crumb hardness (WEAX: 6.94 N; CEAX: 8.53 N). Specific volume was highest in breads with WEAX (2.35 cm3/g), but CEAX displayed a better pore structure. Overall, water-extracted AXs improved the GF bread properties to a higher extent than alkaline-extracted AXs. Only CEAX displayed a comparable effect in some cases, and considering the fact that alkaline extraction of AX is much more efficient (much higher yield), its application compared to other AXs could be more favorable. Overall, AXs hold great potential as baking improvers for GF bread; the extent of their improvement will be defined by their functional properties.
Influence of Ultrapulsed CO2Laser, before Application of Different Types of Fluoride, on the Increase of Microhardness of EnamelIn Vitro
Authors: Oliveira Marcia Regina Cabral , Oliveira Pedro Henrique Cabral , Oliveira Luiz Henrique Cabral , Sfalcin Ravana Angelini , Prates Renato Araujo , Navarro Ricardo Scarparo , Cesar Paulo Francisco , Deana Alessandro Melo , Chavantes Maria Cristina , Bussadori Sandra Kalil , Horliana Anna Carolina Ratto Tempestini
Published: August 2018

Objective.To evaluate the influence of ultrapulsed CO2laser in combination with commercial fluoride products in order to verify the increase of microhardness of artificial enamel caries lesions.Materials and Methods.Bovine enamel specimens were prepared, and artificial enamel caries lesions were created. Teeth were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=10): treated with laser (L), laser + neutral fluoride gel 2% (LNF), laser + acidulated phosphate fluoride gel 1.23% (LAFG), laser + acidulated fluoride mousse 1.23% (LAFM), and laser + fluoride varnish 5% (LFV). Microhardness was evaluated at baseline, after caries induction, after CO2laser irradiation + fluoride treatment in the 1st week, and after fluoride treatment at 3rd and 5th week.Results.There was a decrease in microhardness in all groups after artificial enamel caries lesion formation; no increase in microhardness was found in the first and third weeks in all groups (p > 0.05). In the fifth week, an increase in microhardness occurred in all groups (p < 0.05).Conclusion.Although CO2 laser irradiation in combination with different commercial fluoride products was capable of increasing microhardness on enamel caries lesions in bovine tooth enamel it is necessary to confirm these results by testing the isolated effect of fluoride on enamel surface microhardness. Also, although microhardness was higher in the fluoride varnish group than in the other groups in the fifth week it is not possible to discard the best effect of fluoride varnish treatment on absence of artifacts that may occur with the other fluoride treatments.Clinical Relevance.In order to prove that CO2 laser may contribute to an increase in microhardness when applied to enamel lesions in combination with different commercial fluoride products it is necessary to conduct additional studies. Also, higher microhardness of fluoride varnish group should be carefully considered.
A Conceptual Approach to Eliminate Bypass Release of Fission Products by In-Containment Relief Valve under SGTR Accident
Authors: Kim Taeseok , Choi Wonjun , Jeon Joongoo , Kim Nam Kyung , Jung Hoichul , Kim Sung Joong
Published: August 2018

During a hypothesized severe accident, a containment building is designed to act as a final barrier to prevent release of fission products to the environment in nuclear power plants. However, in a bypass scenario of steam generator tube rupture (SGTR), radioactive nuclides can be released to environment even if the containment is not ruptured. Thus, thorough mitigation strategies are needed to prevent such unfiltered release of the radioactive nuclides during SGTR accidents. To mitigate the consequence of the SGTR accident, this study was conducted to devise a conceptual approach of installing In-Containment Relief Valve (ICRV) from steam generator (SG) to the free space in the containment building and it was simulated by MELCOR code for numerical analysis. Simulation results show that the radioactive nuclides were not released to the environment in the ICRV case. However, the containment pressure increased more than the base case, which is a disadvantage of the ICRV. To minimize the negative effects of the ICRV, the ICRV linked to Reactor Drain Tank (RDT) and cavity flooding was performed. Because the overpressurization of containment is due to heat of ex-vessel corium, only cavity flooding was effective for depressurization. The conceptual design of the ICRV is effective in mitigating the SGTR accident.
An Education Application for Teaching Robot Arm Manipulator Concepts Using Augmented Reality
Authors: Hernández-Ordoñez Martín , Nuño-Maganda Marco A. , Calles-Arriaga Carlos A. , Montaño-Rivas Omar , Bautista Hernández Karla E.
Published: August 2018

Teaching robotics is a challenge in many universities due to the mathematics concepts used in this area. In recent years, augmented reality has improved learning in several engineering areas. In this paper, a platform for teaching robotic arm manipulation concepts is presented. The system includes a homemade robotic arm, a control system, and the RAR@pp. The RAR@pp is focused on learning robotic arm manipulation algorithms by the detection of markers in the robotic arm and displaying in real time the values based on the data obtained by the control system. Details on the design of the platform are presented, and the related results are discussed. Experimental data about the usability of the application are also shown.
Planning Method of Offset Spray Path for Patch considering Boundary Factors
Authors: Zhang Yakun , Xu Chenhao , Xiao Haining , Zhou Bo , Zeng Yong
Published: August 2018

To solve the problem of paint waste at the boundary of the patch when spraying, a planning method of offset spray path considering boundary of the patch is developed. By analyzing the causes of excessive paint waste at the boundary of the patch, a spray path planning method based on boundary curve of the patch is proposed, and the distance between the spray path and the boundary of the patch is optimized to reduce excessive paint waste. According to the allowable range of the spray height and the error range of the coating thickness, the variable range of the spacing distance is established; on this basis, the equal division method of plane intercept line is used to generate the discrete points of the spray path in the length direction of the patch, and a connection algorithm of the discrete points is used to generate the spray path of the patch. The simulation results show that the method can automatically generate a spray path based on the shape of the patch boundary; under the premise of meeting the uniformity requirements of the coating thickness, paint waste can be effectively reduced during spraying.
Secure Data Encryption for Cloud-Based Human Care Services
Authors: Park Taehwan , Seo Hwajeong , Lee Sokjoon , Kim Howon
Published: August 2018

Sensor network services utilize sensor data from low-end IoT devices of the types widely deployed over long distances. After the collection of sensor data, the data is delivered to the cloud server, which processes it to extract useful information. Given that the data may contain sensitive and private information, it should be encrypted and exchanged through the network to ensure integrity and confidentiality. Under these circumstances, a cloud server should provide high-speed data encryption without a loss of availability. In this paper, we propose efficient parallel implementations of Simeck family block ciphers on modern 64-bit Intel processors. In order to accelerate the performance, an adaptive encryption technique is also exploited for load balancing of the resulting big data. Finally, the proposed implementations achieved 3.5 cycles/byte and 4.6 cycles/byte for Simeck32/64 and Simeck64/128 encryption, respectively.
Protective Role of UCP2 in Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis during the Silent Phase of an Experimental Model of Epilepsy Induced by Pilocarpine
Authors: Dutra Marina Rascio Henriques , Feliciano Regiane dos Santos , Jacinto Kalil Ribeiro , Gouveia Telma Luciana Furtado , Brigidio Eduardo , Serra Andrey Jorge , Morris Mariana , Naffah-Mazzacoratti Maria da Graça , Silva José Antônio
Published: August 2018

Neuroprotection is a desirable process in many neurological disorders, yet complex mechanisms involved in this field are not completely understood. The pilocarpine epilepsy model causes potent, seizure‐induced excitotoxicity cell death and mitochondria impairment. The present study is aimed at investigating the role of UCP2, a ROS negative regulator, in the neuroprotection after cholinergic insult. Our data demonstrated that UCP2 expression was augmented in the rat hippocampus 3 days after status epilepticus (SE), reaching a peak on the fifth day, then returning to basal levels. Concomitantly, phospho‐AKT expression levels were higher in the hippocampus during the early silent phase (5 days after SE). Additionally, it was demonstrated that the blockade of UCP2 by antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) in SE rats successfully diminished both UCP2 mRNA and protein contents. SE ASO rats presented increased mitochondrial proapoptotic factor expression, caspase‐3 activity, inflammatory cytokine expression, and ROS formation. Moreover, ASO treatment diminished p‐AKT expression and antioxidant enzyme activities after pilocarpine insult. In conclusion, the present results highlight the neuroprotective actions of UCP2, acting in the inhibition of apoptotic factors and oxidative stress, to increase neuron survival after SE onset.
Changes in Pore Structure of Coal Caused by CS2 Treatment and Its Methane Adsorption Response
Authors: Chen Run , Qin Yong , Zhang Pengfei , Wang Youyang
Published: August 2018

The pore structure and gas adsorption are two key issues that affect the coal bed methane recovery process significantly. To change pore structure and gas adsorption, 5 coals with different ranks were treated by CS2 for 3 h using a Soxhlet extractor under ultrasonic oscillation conditions; the evolutions of pore structure and methane adsorption were examined using a high-pressure mercury intrusion porosimeter (MIP) with an AutoPore IV 9310 series mercury instrument. The results show that the cumulative pore volume and specific surface area (SSA) were increased after CS2 treatment, and the incremental micropore volume and SSA were increased and decreased before and after Ro,max=1.3%, respectively; the incremental big pore (greater than 10 nm in diameter) volumes were increased and SSA was decreased for all coals, and pore connectivity was improved. Methane adsorption capacity on coal before and after Ro,max=1.3% also was increased and decreased, respectively. There is a positive correlation between the changes in the micropore SSA and the Langmuir volume. It confirms that the changes in pore structure and methane adsorption capacity due to CS2 treatment are controlled by the rank, and the change in methane adsorption is impacted by the change of micropore SSA and suggests that the changes in pore structure are better for gas migration; the alteration in methane adsorption capacity is worse and better for methane recovery before and after Ro,max=1.3%. A conceptual mechanism of pore structure is proposed to explain methane adsorption capacity on CS2 treated coal around the Ro,max=1.3%.
Efficacy and Safety of Endoscopic Intralesional Triamcinolone Injection for Benign Esophageal Strictures
Authors: Zhang Ya-Wu , Wei Feng-Xian , Qi Xue-Ping , Liu Zhao , Xu Xiao-Dong , Zhang You-Cheng
Published: August 2018

Objectives.To evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic intralesional triamcinolone injection (ITI) for benign esophageal strictures combined with endoscopic dilation (ED).Methods.Online databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were comprehensively searched for prospective randomized control trials (RCTs) between 1966 and March 2018. A meta-analysis was conducted according to the methods recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration.Results.Six RCTs consisting of 176 patients were selected. Meta-analysis results showed that additional ITI had a significant advantage in terms of stricture rate and required ED sessions. Surgery-related and non-surgery-related strictures showed similar results. Additional ITI was not associated with significantly increased risk of complications.Conclusions. Our meta-analysis showed that additional ITI therapy was supposed to be effective and safe for benign esophageal strictures as it reduced the stricture rate and required ED sessions. However, more RCTs are necessary to support these findings.
Dynamic Wireless Energy Harvesting and Optimal Distribution in Multipair DF Relay Network with Nonlinear Energy Conversion Model
Authors: Shah Syed Tariq , da Costa Daniel B. , Choi Kae Won , Chung Min Young
Published: August 2018

Wireless energy harvesting has emerged as an efficient solution to prolong the lifetime of wireless networks composed of energy‐constrained nodes. In this paper, we consider a multipoint‐to‐multipoint relay network, where multiple source nodes communicate with their respective destination nodes via intermediate energy‐constrained decode‐and‐forward (DF) relay. The performance of two different transmission modes, namely, delay tolerant and delay nontolerant, is studied. Based on power‐splitting relaying protocol (PSR), optimal energy harvesting and distribution schemes for both transmission modes are provided. In addition, for more realistic and practical analysis, we consider a nonlinear energy conversion model for energy harvesting at the relay node. Our numerical results provide useful insights into different system parameters of a nonlinear energy harvesting‐based multipair DF relay network.
Preparation and Sealing Performance of a New Coal Dust Polymer Composite Sealing Material
Authors: Li Bo , Zhang Junxiang , Wei Jianping , Zhang Qiang
Published: August 2018

In this study, a new coal‐dust polymer composite material (CP) was fabricated to improve the borehole gas drainage effect and address the limitations of traditional sealing materials. This material used coal dust generated during underground drilling construction as filler, amino resin as binder, and also some other additives. Based on the orthogonal test scheme, 16 groups of experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of coal‐dust content, water‐material ratio, and cross‐linking agent content on viscosity, 3‐day (3‐d) compressive strength, and gel time of the CP. The influences of the various factors were studied using a range of analytical methods to obtain the optimal proportion of the CP. Moreover, the mechanical property and microstructure of the CP were also analyzed to evaluate the sealing performance of this material. Results showed that this material exhibited obvious plastic characteristic and could provide an effective support for the borehole; it can adapt to the deformation of the borehole to some extent and achieve a long‐term sealing effect. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results show a good correlation between the resin molecules and coal dust inside the material, which were conducive to improve the sealing performance of the CP material.
Triglycerides/Glucose and Triglyceride/High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Indices in Normal and Preeclamptic Pregnancies: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Poveda Natalia Elvira , Garcés María Fernanda , Darghan Aquiles Enrique , Jaimes Silvia Alejandra Blanco , Sánchez Estefania Pulido , Díaz-Cruz Luz Amparo , Garzón-Olivares Carmen Doris , Parra-Pineda Mario Orlando , Bautista-Charry Alejandro Antonio , Müller Edith Ángel , Alzate Héctor Fabio Sandoval , Acosta Luis Miguel Maldonado , Sanchez Elizabeth , Ruíz-Parra Ariel Iván , Caminos Jorge Eduardo
Published: August 2018

Metabolic changes have been correlated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. The aim of the present study is to determine the TyG and TG/HDL-c indices in a cohort of healthy pregnant (n=142), preeclamptic (n=18), and healthy nonpregnant women (n=56). Preeclamptic women were selected from the same cohort. Pregnant women were followed during three periods of pregnancy and postpartum. The results showed a significant increase in the values of TyG and TG/HDL-c (p<0.01) as pregnancy progresses, without significant differences between healthy and preeclamptic women. TyG and TG/HDL-c indices are significantly low in nonpregnant and three months’ postpartum women when compared with each gestational period studied. TyG and TG/HDL-c indices are positively correlated with HOMA-IR in the early and middle pregnancy (p<0.05). Multiple linear regression using the TyG and TG/HDL-c indices as dependent variables showed that TyG index was significantly associated with HOMA-IR, gestational age, HDL-c, TC, LDL, fasting insulin, and mean BP (p<0.001); meanwhile, TG/HDL-c index was only associated with HOMA-IR (p<0.0242) and gestational age (p<0.001). In conclusion, the TyG and TG/HDL-c indices could be useful in monitoring insulin resistance during pregnancy.
The Evolution of Central Retinal and Choroidal Thickness in Acute Anterior Uveitic Patients with Spondyloarthropathy
Authors: Szepessy Zsuzsanna , Barsi Árpád , Kránitz Kinga , Nagy Zoltán Zsolt
Published: August 2018

Purpose. To describe and correlate the degree of anterior segment inflammation with central retinal and choroidal thickness throughout the treatment period (in the course of follow-up) in the eyes affected with acute anterior uveitis in the patients with seronegative spondyloarthropathy (subgroup: ankylosing spondylitis). Methods. Thirty eyes of 30 consecutive Caucasian patients with HLA-B27-associated acute anterior uveitis were included in this study. The flare, AC cell number, and central retinal/choroidal thickness were determined at each visit by optical coherence tomography and laser flare photometry. Treatment consisted of topical corticosteroids. Statistical analysis was performed by MathWorks Matlab software. Results. In the follow-up period, central retinal thickness was increased in the first 9-10 days and then decreased until stabilization (after 5-6 weeks). The flare and AC cell number decreased rapidly at the beginning of the treatment, in the first 10 days, and thereafter, slower decrease could be observed until complete resolution of inflammation. Statistically significant, positive correlation was found between initial laser flare value and maximal central retinal thickness (r=0.881, p<0.001). Positive correlation between flare and retinal thickening was observable throughout the treatment period. Central choroidal thickness was decreased also significantly during the follow-up (p<0.001). Conclusions. The retina and choroid may play a biomarker function in the anterior segment inflammation of the eye in the patients with seronegative spondyloarthropathy.
The Development and Application Evaluation of Meridian Energy Detection System in Traditional Oriental Medicine: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Lee Yu-Chen , Ng Hui Ping , Chang Yung-Hsien , Ho Wen-Chao
Published: August 2018

As technology advances, more modern medical devices are developed to help the physicians in performing objective assessment and diagnosis. In this study, our main objective was to evaluate the clinical application of the low voltage Meridian Energy Detection System in assessing the electrodermal activity (EDA) of the specific acupoints in a specific age group of healthy individuals and to assess the difference in the energy overview between the genders and specific time of assessment. 43 young healthy adults were recruited in a single group, nonrandomized, evaluation study. Written informed consent of each participant was obtained prior to the assessments. Results on energy overview between genders and specific time of assessment as well as factors influencing EDA were discussed. It was concluded that the study using Meridian Energy Detection System in healthy individuals provided an understanding of the difference in energy level of the meridians between the genders. Male healthy individuals had significantly higher values for Physical Status as well as Yin and Yang energy while female healthy individuals had significantly higher values for Mental Health and Autonomic Nervous System. There was no significant difference when comparing the assessments at the specific time of assessment. Hence there was no specific time in using the device. However, due to the limitation of the sample size and the healthy subjects, future research can be designed to investigate whether the time of assessment can affect the results in individuals with specific disease conditions in larger scale. It may merit further studies on the application of such device as preliminary diagnosis of the overall conditions and investigate the treatment efficacy by observing the change in the meridian energy level.
A Case of Neurosarcoidosis-Induced Syndrome of Inappropriate Secretion of Antidiuretic Hormone Diagnosed with Neuroendoscopy
Authors: Gen Shiko , Ogawa Akio , Kanai Koji , Nobe Kanako , Ikeda Naofumi , Mochizuki Atsuko , Tokushige Kazuo
Published: August 2018

We treated a patient with neurosarcoidosis, which caused the syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), in whom diagnosis was performed using neuroendoscopy. The patient was a 56-year-old female who was hospitalized for hyponatremia and diagnosed with SIADH based on a detailed examination. During the course, she developed impaired consciousness due to acute hydrocephalus, which improved after ventricular drainage. Head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed nodular lesions at the floor of the third ventricle and the cerebral aqueduct. Neuroendoscopic biopsy led to the diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis. Her hyponatremia improved after steroid therapy. Neurosarcoidosis can cause SIADH, and complication of hydrocephalus may lead to a poor prognosis. Neuroendoscopy appears to be effective for the diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis with hydrocephalus and helps in deciding the treatment modality.
Phase I Study of the Investigational Aurora A Kinase Inhibitor Alisertib plus Rituximab or Rituximab/Vincristine in Relapsed/Refractory Aggressive B-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Kelly Kevin R. , Friedberg Jonathan W. , Park Steven I. , McDonagh Kevin , Hayslip John , Persky Daniel , Ruan Jia , Puvvada Soham , Rosen Peter , Iyer Swaminathan Padmanabhan , Stefanovic Alexandra , Bernstein Steven H. , Weitman Steven , Karnad Anand , Monohan Gregory , VanderWalde Ari , Mena Raul , Schmelz Monika , Spier Catherine , Groshen Susan , Venkatakrishnan Karthik , Zhou Xiaofei , Sheldon-Waniga Emily , Leonard E. Jane , Mahadevan Daruka
Published: August 2018

Purpose:

The aurora A kinase inhibitor alisertib demonstrated single-agent clinical activity and preclinical synergy with vincristine/rituximab in B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL). This phase I study aimed to determine the safety and recommended phase II dose (RP2D) of alisertib in combination with rituximab ± vincristine in patients with relapsed/refractory aggressive B-NHL.

Patients and Methods:

Patients with relapsed/refractory, diffuse, large, or other aggressive B-NHL received oral alisertib 50 mg b.i.d. days 1 to 7, plus i.v. rituximab 375 mg/m2 on day 1, for up to eight 21-day cycles (MR). Patients in subsequent cohorts (3 + 3 design) received increasing doses of alisertib (30 mg starting dose; 10 mg increments) b.i.d. days 1 to 7 plus rituximab and vincristine [1.4 mg/m2 (maximum 2 mg) days 1, 8] for 8 cycles (MRV). Patients benefiting could continue single-agent alisertib beyond 8 cycles. Cell-of-origin and MYC/BCL2 IHC was performed on available archival tissue.

Results:

Forty-five patients participated. The alisertib RP2D for MR was 50 mg b.i.d. For MRV (n = 32), the RP2D was determined as 40 mg b.i.d. [1 dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) at 40 mg; 2 DLTs at 50 mg]. Drug-related adverse events were reported in 89% of patients, the most common was neutropenia (47%). Seven patients had complete responses (CR), 7 had partial responses (PRs); 9 of 20 (45%) patients at the MRV RP2D responded (4 CRs, 5 PRs), all with non–germinal center B-cell (GCB) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Conclusions:

The combination of alisertib 50 mg b.i.d. plus rituximab or alisertib 40 mg b.i.d. plus rituximab and vincristine was well tolerated and demonstrated activity in non-GCB DLBCL.
Family History of Breast or Prostate Cancer and Prostate Cancer Risk
Authors: Barber Lauren , Gerke Travis , Markt Sarah C. , Peisch Samuel F. , Wilson Kathryn M. , Ahearn Thomas , Giovannucci Edward , Parmigiani Giovanni , Mucci Lorelei A.
Published: August 2018

Purpose:

Breast and prostate cancer co-occur in families, and women with a family history of prostate cancer are at increased breast cancer risk. Prostate cancer is among the most heritable cancers, but few studies have investigated its association with familial breast cancer. The objective of this study is to investigate the extent to which familial breast or prostate cancer in first-degree relatives increases prostate cancer risk.

Experimental Design:

A prospective study of 37,002 U.S. men in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. During the 16-year follow-up to 2012, 4,208 total and 344 lethal cases were diagnosed. Using cause-specific hazards regression, we estimated the multivariable HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between familial breast or prostate cancer and total and lethal prostate cancer.

Results:

Those with familial breast cancer had a 21% greater risk of prostate cancer overall (95% CI, 1.10–1.34), and a 34% greater risk of lethal disease (HR 1.34; 95% CI, 0.96–1.89). Family history of prostate cancer alone was associated with a 68% increased risk of total disease (95% CI, 1.53–1.83) and a 72% increased risk of lethal disease (95% CI, 1.25–2.38). Men with a family history of both cancers were also at elevated risk.

Conclusions:

Our study found that men with a family history of breast or prostate cancer had elevated prostate cancer risks, including risk of lethal disease. These findings have translational relevance for cancer risk prediction in men.