bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability analysis of drug dynamics model: A mathematical approach
Authors: Chakravarty Koyel , Dalal D. C.
Published: March 2019

In this paper, a mathematical model of drug release from polymeric matrix and consequent intracellular drug transport is proposed and analyzed. Modeling of drug release is done through solubilization dynamics of drug particles, diffusion of the solubilized drug through the polymeric matrix in addition to reversible dissociation/recrystallization process. The interaction between drug-receptor, drug-plasma proteins along with other intracellular endosomal events is modeled. This leads to a mixed system of partial and ordinary differential equations with associated pertinent set of initial and boundary conditions. Furthermore, besides the stability of the proposed model, several sub-models are also studied for their stability criteria. Prominence is provided to the reduced model system having requisite relevance to the original system where quasi steady state approximation (QSSA) theory is utilized. For the model to be potent enough to generate appropriate predictive results for drug delivery, the stability properties of equilibrium in the mathematical model are analyzed both analytically and numerically. Numerical simulation in the embodiment of graphical representations speaks about various vital characteristics of the underlying physical phenomena along with the importance and sensitized impact of the model parameters controlling significant biological functions. Probed new therapies and clinical procedures could be assessed considering the present mathematical model and its analysis as the basis framework in order to effectively enhance therapeutic efficacy and improved patient compliance. The present study confirms the necessity of stability analysis study so that advocated mathematical model can effectively complement the real physiological behavior of pharmacokinetics.
Nano-loaded natural killer cells as carriers of indocyanine green for synergetic cancer immunotherapy and phototherapy
Authors: Huang Shigao , Fong Chi Ian , Xu Mengze , Han Bing-nan , Yuan Zhen , Zhao Qi
Published: March 2019

To improve the efficacy of traditional chemotherapy and radiotherapy and reduce their serious side effects, further efforts need to be exerted to identify better cancer therapeutic options that are effective, affordable, and acceptable to patients. In this study, a novel theranostic agent was produced to perform synergetic cancer immunotherapy and phototherapy. The theranostic agent, named natural killer (NK) cells carrying indocyanine green loaded liposomes was synthesized NK cells with ICG nanoparticles to serve as the agent for a newly-established cancer treatment. It is expected that the developed synergistic therapy can pave a new avenue for improved efficacy of cancer theranostics.
PEGylated liposomal photosensitizers as theranostic agents for dual-modal photoacoustic and fluorescence imaging-guided photodynamic therapy
Authors: Xu Hao , Liu Yubin , Qu Junle , Yuan Zhen
Published: March 2019

The photosensitizer (PS) as photodynamic therapy (PDT) agent, can also serve as the contrast agent for dual-modal fluorescence imaging (FLI) and photoacoustic imaging (PAI) for precise cancer theranostics. In this study, the PAI capability of commercial PS, benzoporphyrin derivative monoacid ring-A (BPD) were examined and compared with that from the other PSs and dyes such as TPPS4, Cy5 dye and ICG. We discovered that BPD exhibited its advantage as contrast agent for PAI. Meanwhile, BPD can also serve as the contrast agent for enhanced FLI. In particular, the PEGylated nanoliposome (PNL) encapsulated BPD (LBPD) was produced for contrast enhanced dual-modal FLI and PAI and imaging-guided high-efficiency PDT. Enhanced FLI and PAI results demonstrated the significant accumulation of LBPD both within and among individual tumor during 24[Formula: see text]h monitoring for in vivo experiment tests. In-vitro and in-vivo PDT tests were also performed, which showed that LBPD have higher PDT efficiency and can easily break the blood vessel of tumor tissues as compared to that from BPD. It was discovered that LBPD has great potentials as a diagnosis and treatment agent for dual-modal FLI and PAI-guided PDT of cancer.
Development of “spin dice” — A Scalable Random Number Generator Based on Spin-Torque Switching
Authors: Fukushima Akio , Yakushiji Kay , Kubota Hitoshi , Imamura Hiroshi , Yuasa Shinji
Published: March 2019

We have developed a random-number-generator (RNG) named “spin dice,” which employs the stochastic nature of spin-torque switching (STS) in a magnetic tunnel junction. The principle of the idea is that the switching probability first tuned around 0.5 is varied linearly with the applied current. After that, the switching results are converted into binary random numbers. We fabricated several types of “spin dice” by combining magnetic tunnel junctions and single-board microcomputer, and achieved generation speed of random numbers up to several hundred kbit/sec. Because STS is scalable and magnetic tunnel junctions have compatibility to semiconductor fabrication process, “spin dice” can be considered as a promising candidate for truly random-number-generator (TRNG) for security applications.
Strong convergence of ESD for large quaternion sample covariance matrices and correlation matrices when p/n → 0
Authors: Ding Xue
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we study the strong convergence of empirical spectral distribution (ESD) of the large quaternion sample covariance matrices and correlation matrices when the ratio of the population dimension [Formula: see text] to sample size [Formula: see text] tends to zero. We prove that the ESD of renormalized quaternion sample covariance matrices converges almost surely to the semicircle law.
Geochemical mapping and estimation of background concentrations in soils of Carajás mineral province, eastern Amazonian Craton, Brazil
Authors: Salomão Gabriel Negreiros , Dall'Agnol Roberto , Angélica Rômulo S. , Figueiredo Marco Aurélio , Sahoo Prafulla K. , de Medeiros Filho Carlos A. , da Costa Marlene F.
Published: March 2019

Companhia de Pesquisa de Recursos Minerais (CPRM, the Brazilian geological survey) has carried out geochemical surveys focused on the Carajás region, the largest mineral province in Brazil. One of these surveys covered the area of Canaã dos Carajás, where 257 soil samples, including 32 duplicate samples, were collected from the B-horizon of soils within an area of
c.
3500 km
2
. The <0.177 mm fraction of these samples was ground and digested with aqua regia and then analysed for 53 elements by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The statistical treatment of the data allowed the development of multi-element geochemical maps based on interpolation techniques and the establishment of geochemical background values in soils. Different methods of obtaining the geochemical threshold values are presented and compared. The geochemical behaviour of 43 elements, including potentially toxic elements, is discussed. Geochemical background values were established using different statistical methods and the most significant results were obtained from the iterative 2
σ
technique. The influence of the geogenic contribution in the study area is largely dominant over anthropogenic effects. There is no conclusive evidence of contamination related to human activity at the time when the geochemical survey was carried out. This paper provides multi-element geochemical maps and background values in the most prominent Brazilian mining province.
The Role of Nutrition for the Aging Population: Implications for Cognition and Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Power Rebecca , Prado-Cabrero Alfonso , Mulcahy Ríona , Howard Alan , Nolan John M.
Published: March 2019

Improved life expectancy worldwide has resulted in a significant increase in age-related diseases. Dementia is one of the fastest growing age-related diseases, with 75 million adults globally projected to develop the condition by 2030. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia and represents the most significant stage of cognitive decline. With no cure identified to date for AD, focus is being placed on preventative strategies to slow progression, minimize the burden of neurological disease, and promote healthy aging. Accumulating evidence suggests that nutrition (e.g., via fruit, vegetables, fish) is important for optimizing cognition and reducing risk of AD. This review examines the role of nutrition on cognition and AD, with specific emphasis on the Mediterranean diet (MeDi) and key nutritional components of the MeDi, namely xanthophyll carotenoids and omega-3 fatty acids. Given their selective presence in the brain and their ability to attenuate proposed mechanisms involved in AD pathogenesis (namely oxidative damage and inflammation), these nutritional compounds offer potential for optimizing cognition and reducing the risk of AD.
Myristoylated rhinovirus VP4 protein activates TLR2-dependent proinflammatory gene expression
Authors: Bentley J. Kelley , Han Mingyuan , Jaipalli Suraj , Hinde Joanna L. , Lei Jing , Ishikawa Tomoko , Goldsmith Adam M. , Rajput Charu , Hershenson Marc B.
Published: March 2019

Asthma exacerbations are often caused by rhinovirus (RV). We and others have shown that Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), a membrane surface receptor that recognizes bacterial lipopeptides and lipoteichoic acid, is required and sufficient for RV-induced proinflammatory responses in vitro and in vivo. We hypothesized that viral protein-4 (VP4), an internal capsid protein that is myristoylated upon viral replication and externalized upon viral binding, is a ligand for TLR2. Recombinant VP4 and myristoylated VP4 (MyrVP4) were purified by Ni-affinity chromatography. MyrVP4 was also purified from RV-A1B-infected HeLa cells by urea solubilization and anti-VP4 affinity chromatography. Finally, synthetic MyrVP4 was produced by chemical peptide synthesis. MyrVP4-TLR2 interactions were assessed by confocal fluorescence microscopy, fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), and monitoring VP4-induced cytokine mRNA expression in the presence of anti-TLR2 and anti-VP4. MyrVP4 and TLR2 colocalized in TLR2-expressing HEK-293 cells, mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages, human bronchoalveolar macrophages, and human airway epithelial cells. Colocalization was absent in TLR2-null HEK-293 cells and blocked by anti-TLR2 and anti-VP4. Cy3-labeled MyrVP4 and Cy5-labeled anti-TLR2 showed an average fractional FRET efficiency of 0.24 ± 0.05, and Cy5-labeled anti-TLR2 increased and unlabeled MyrVP4 decreased FRET efficiency. MyrVP4-induced chemokine mRNA expression was higher than that elicited by VP4 alone and was attenuated by anti-TLR2 and anti-VP4. Cytokine expression was similarly increased by MyrVP4 purified from RV-infected HeLa cells and synthetic MyrVP4. We conclude that, during RV infection, MyrVP4 and TLR2 interact to generate a proinflammatory response.
A nonapoptotic endothelial barrier-protective role for caspase-3
Authors: Suresh Karthik , Carino Kathleen , Johnston Laura , Servinsky Laura , Machamer Carolyn E. , Kolb Todd M. , Lam Hong , Dudek Steven M. , An Steven S. , Rane Madhavi J. , Shimoda Larissa A. , Damarla Mahendra
Published: March 2019

Noncanonical roles for caspase-3 are emerging in the fields of cancer and developmental biology. However, little is known of nonapoptotic functions of caspase-3 in most cell types. We have recently demonstrated a disassociation between caspase-3 activation and execution of apoptosis with accompanying cytoplasmic caspase-3 sequestration and preserved endothelial barrier function. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that nonapoptotic caspase-3 activation promotes endothelial barrier integrity. Human lung microvascular endothelial cells were exposed to thrombin, a nonapoptotic stimulus, and endothelial barrier function was assessed using electric cell-substrate impedance sensing. Actin cytoskeletal rearrangement and paracellular gap formation were assessed using phalloidin staining. Cell stiffness was evaluated using magnetic twisting cytometry. In addition, cell lysates were harvested for protein analyses. Caspase-3 was inhibited pharmacologically with pan-caspase and a caspase-3-specific inhibitor. Molecular inhibition of caspase-3 was achieved using RNA interference. Cells exposed to thrombin exhibited a cytoplasmic activation of caspase-3 with transient and nonapoptotic decrease in endothelial barrier function as measured by a drop in electrical resistance followed by a rapid recovery. Inhibition of caspases led to a more pronounced and rapid drop in thrombin-induced endothelial barrier function, accompanied by increased endothelial cell stiffness and paracellular gaps. Caspase-3-specific inhibition and caspase-3 knockdown both resulted in more pronounced thrombin-induced endothelial barrier disruption. Taken together, our results suggest cytoplasmic caspase-3 has nonapoptotic functions in human endothelium and can promote endothelial barrier integrity.
Functional changes in low- and high-threshold afferents in obstruction-induced bladder overactivity
Authors: Zagorodnyuk Vladimir P. , Keightley Lauren J. , Brookes Simon J. H. , Spencer Nick J. , Costa Marcello , Nicholas Sarah J.
Published: March 2019

Neural mechanisms of lower urinary tract symptoms in obstruction-induced bladder overactivity remain unclear. We made the first single unit recordings from different types of spinal afferents to determine the effects of bladder outlet obstruction in guinea pigs. A model of gradual bladder outlet obstruction in male guinea pigs was used to produce overactive bladder. Conscious voiding was assessed in metabolic cages, and micturition was recorded in anesthetized guinea pigs in vivo. Single unit extracellular recordings were made ex vivo from spinal afferent nerves in flat sheet preparations of the bladder. Guinea pigs with partially obstructed bladders showed a significant increase in conscious voiding frequency compared with sham-operated guinea pigs. Also, nonvoiding contractions increased significantly in both frequency and amplitude. Although spontaneous firing of low-threshold bladder afferents was increased, their stretch-induced firing was reduced. The proportion of capsaicin-sensitive low-threshold afferents increased in obstructed bladders. Interestingly, spontaneous and stretch-induced firing were both significantly increased in high-threshold afferents after obstruction. In summary, sensory signaling increased in the obstructed bladder during the filling phase. This is largely mediated by low-threshold stretch-sensitive afferents that are activated by increased local nonvoiding contractions. Increased spontaneous firing by high-threshold afferents also contributes. Our findings revealed a complex effect of bladder outlet obstruction on different types of bladder afferents that needs consideration for potential therapeutic targeting of lower urinary tract symptoms in obstruction-induced bladder overactivity.
Mechanical Properties and Failure Modes of Rock Specimens with Specific Joint Geometries in Triaxial Unloading Compressive Test
Authors: Duan Guoyong , Li Jianlin , Zhang Jingyu , Assefa Eleyas , Sun Xushu
Published: March 2019

The effects of disconnected joints on the mechanical characteristics of rock masses are interesting and challenging aspects of rock mechanics. The prime objective of this study is to investigate the effect of joint orientations and joint connectivity rates on the strength, deformation, and failure mechanisms of rock specimens under unloading condition. To establish the relationships between different factors (confining pressure, joint orientation, and joint connectivity) and failure mechanisms, a series of triaxial unloading tests were performed. The results showed that the joint orientation had a more considerable effect than the joint connectivity on the strength and deformation of the specimens. Generally, three different types of failures were observed (i.e., shear, mixed, and split). Finally, Griffith’s theory was utilized to analyze the maximum tensile stress around the crack. The findings of this paper can also be used for practical engineering problems.
Chylous Cardiac Tamponade with Chylothoraces Secondary to Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Octreotide in Conjuncture with Standard of Care Dietary Fat Restriction
Authors: O’Donnell John , Kirkham Jay , Monteith Duane , Frontario Christopher , Sharma Rahul , Higgins Brianna
Published: March 2019

Chylous effusions are a well-known complication from a variety of etiologies including trauma, malignancies, and anatomic defects, with the most common location being in the pleural space. A pericardial chylous effusion (chylopericardium) is uncommon, and a chylopericardium with concomitant bilateral chylous pleural effusions (chylothoraces) has only been reported in less than a handful of case reports. Our patient presented with bilateral chylothoraces and a chylopericardium with tamponade physiology secondary to Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. In this article, we discuss our treatment of this patient with the somatostatin analogue octreotide, as well as the standard of care dietary fat restriction, in order to control these effusions until the patient’s chemotherapy took effect.
Chronic Unexpected Mild Stress Destroys Synaptic Plasticity of Neurons through a Glutamate Transporter, GLT-1, of Astrocytes in the Ischemic Stroke Rat
Authors: Yu Dafan , Cheng Zhenxing , Ali Abdoulaye Idriss , Wang Jiamin , Le Kai , Chibaatar Enkhmurun , Guo Yijing
Published: March 2019

Background and Objective. Chronic unexpected mild stress (CUMS) destroys synaptic plasticity of hippocampal regenerated neurons that may be involved in the occurrence of poststroke depression. Astrocytes uptake glutamate at the synapse and provide metabolic support for neighboring neurons. Currently, we aim to investigate whether CUMS inhibits synaptic formation of regenerated neurons through a glutamate transporter, GLT-1, of astrocytes in the ischemic stroke rats. Method. We exposed the ischemic stroke rats to ceftriaxone, during the CUMS intervention period to determine the effects of GLT-1 on glutamate circulation by immunofluorescence and mass spectrometry and its influences to synaptic plasticity by western blot and transmission electron microscopy. Result. CUMS evidently reduced the level of astroglial GLT-1 in the hippocampus of the ischemic rats (p<0.05), resulting in smaller amount of glutamate being transported into astrocytes surrounding synapses (p<0.05), and then expression of synaptophysin was suppressed (p<0.05) in hippocampal dentate gyrus. The ultrastructures of synapses in dentate gyrus were adversely influenced including decreased proportion of smile synapses, shortened thickness of postsynaptic density, reduced number of vesicles, and widened average distance of the synaptic cleft (all p<0.05). Moreover, ceftriaxone can promote glutamate circulation and synaptic plasticity (all p<0.05) by raising astroglial GLT-1 (p<0.05) and then improve depressive behaviors of the CUMS-induced model rats (p<0.05). Conclusion. Our study shows that CUMS destroys synaptic plasticity of regenerated neurons in the hippocampus through a glutamate transporter, GLT-1, of astrocytes in the ischemic stroke rats. This may indicate one potential pathogenesis of poststroke depression.
Automatic Segmentation of Pathological Glomerular Basement Membrane in Transmission Electron Microscopy Images with Random Forest Stacks
Authors: Cao Lei , Lu YanMeng , Li ChuangQuan , Yang Wei
Published: March 2019

Pathological classification through transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is essential for the diagnosis of certain nephropathy, and the changes of thickness in glomerular basement membrane (GBM) and presence of immune complex deposits in GBM are often used as diagnostic criteria. The automatic segmentation of the GBM on TEM images by computerized technology can provide clinicians with clear information about glomerular ultrastructural lesions. The GBM region on the TEM image is not only complicated and changeable in shape but also has a low contrast and wide distribution of grayscale. Consequently, extracting image features and obtaining excellent segmentation results are difficult. To address this problem, we introduce a random forest- (RF-) based machine learning method, namely, RF stacks (RFS), to realize automatic segmentation. Specifically, this work proposes a two-level integrated RFS that is more complicated than a one-level integrated RF to improve accuracy and generalization performance. The integrated strategies include training integration and testing integration. Training integration can derive a full-viewRFS1by simultaneously sampling several images of different grayscale ranges in the train phase. Testing integration can derive a zoom-viewRFS2by separately sampling the images of different grayscale ranges and integrating the results in the test phase. Experimental results illustrate that the proposed RFS can be used to automatically segment different morphologies and gray-level basement membranes. Future study on GBM thickness measurement and deposit identification will be based on this work.
Clinical Features and Cytokine Profile in Myositis Patients with Anti-EJ Autoantibodies Detected by a Novel Immunoprecipitation Assay
Authors: Yang Yang , Liu Yangtengyu , Huang Li , Wang Li , Liu Ke , Liu Meidong , Luo Hui , Zuo Xiaoxia , Li Yisha , Zhang Huali
Published: March 2019

Objective. This study aimed to clarify the clinical features, the serum level of autoantibodies, and cytokine of myositis patients with anti-EJ antibody, which targets glycyl tRNA-synthetase (GlyRS).Methods. Sera of 236 Chinese patients with myositis were screened for anti-EJ by a novel immunoprecipitation assay of flag-tagged GlyRS. Anti-EJ positive patients are evaluated for the clinical features and cytokine profile.Results. The sera from 4 of 236 adult myositis patients were found to carry the anti-EJ using established novel immunoprecipitation assay and immunoblotting. The prevalence of anti-EJ in our cohorts is about 1.7%. The decline of anti-EJ level was detected in two patients during disease remission. Interstitial lung disease and muscle weakness, but not skin involvement, are common clinical features of anti-EJ positive patients. Moreover, using a cytokine profile analyses, we found that the serum levels of IP-10, IL-6, MCP-1, and VEGF were significantly elevated in patients with anti-EJ and gradually decreased during disease remission of two patients, whereas IL-8 level was obviously reduced in these patients.Conclusion. The novel immunoprecipitation assay is suitable to detect and monitor the levels of anti-EJ autoantibody. The serum levels of anti-EJ, IP-10, IL-6, MCP-1, and VEGF may be related to disease activity in myositis patients with anti-EJ antibodies.
Physicochemical Principles of Synthesis and Modification of Unsaturated Polyester-Polyvinyl Chloride Composites and the Properties of Materials Derived from Them
Authors: Katruk Diana , Levytskyi Volodymyr , Khromyak Ulyana , Moravskyi Volodymyr , Masyuk Andrii
Published: March 2019

The influence of the polymeric modifier of polyvinyl chloride on the structuring of unsaturated polyester resins has been investigated. It is established that the introduction of 2–5 parts by weight of polyvinyl chloride into a polyester composite accelerates the process of gelation and shortens the time of microgelation of the polyester. The influence of polyvinyl chloride on the structure coefficient, surface hardness, and strength of adhesive bonds and technological shrinkage of modified polyester composites has been revealed.
Noninvasive Ventilation Weaning in Acute Hypercapnic Respiratory Failure due to COPD Exacerbation: A Real-Life Observational Study
Authors: Faverio Paola , Stainer Anna , De Giacomi Federica , Messinesi Grazia , Paolini Valentina , Monzani Anna , Sioli Paolo , Memaj Irdi , Sibila Oriol , Mazzola Paolo , Pesci Alberto
Published: March 2019

The most recent British Thoracic Society/Intensive Care Society (BTS/ICS) guidelines on the use of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in acute hypercapnic respiratory failure (AHRF) suggest to maximize NIV use in the first 24 hours and to perform a slow tapering. However, a limited number of studies evaluated the phase of NIV weaning. The aim of this study is to describe the NIV weaning protocol used in AHRF due to acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AE-COPD), patients’ characteristics, clinical course, and outcomes in a real-life intermediate respiratory care unit (IRCU) setting. We performed a retrospective study on adult patients hospitalized at the IRCU of San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy, from January 2015 to April 2017 with a diagnosis of AHRF due to COPD exacerbation. The NIV weaning protocol used in our institution consists of the interruption of one of the three daily NIV sessions at the time, starting from the morning session and finishing with the night session. The 51 patients who started weaning were divided into three groups: 20 (39%) patients (median age 80 yrs, 65% males) who completed the protocol and were discharged home without NIV (Completed Group), 20 (39%) did not complete it because they were adapted to domiciliary ventilation (Chronic NIV Group), and 11 (22%) interrupted weaningex abruptomainly due to NIV intolerance (Failed Group). Completed Group patients were older, had a higher burden of comorbidities, but a lower severity of COPD compared to Chronic NIV Group. Failed Group patients experienced higher frequency of delirium after NIV discontinuation. None of the patients who completed weaning had AHRF relapse during hospitalization. While other NIV weaning methods have been previously described, our study is the first to describe a protocol that implies the interruption of a ventilation session at the time. The application of a weaning protocol may prevent AHRF relapse in the early stages of NIV interruption and in elderly frail patients.
Template-Free Preparation and Photocatalytic and Photoluminescent Properties of Brookite TiO2 Hollow Spheres
Authors: Wang Yunjian , Li Yuchan
Published: March 2019

The preparation of high-purity brookite TiO2 with a unique morphology is rare and difficult. Herein, high-purity brookite TiO2 hollow spheres were hydrothermally synthesized by employing titanium sulfate as the titanium source and chloroacetic acid and sodium hydroxide as the pH regulator. The structure, morphology, and optical properties were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-Vis DRS). The results showed that the as-prepared brookite TiO2 exhibited a hollow-sphere morphology with a size of about 1.0 micrometer and showed a direct band gap of 3.13 eV. Additionally, thermal analysis in combination with infrared spectroscopy showed that the as-prepared brookite TiO2 was surface capped by water and organic molecules. Finally, the photocatalytic and photoluminescent properties of brookite TiO2 were studied.
A Comparison Analysis of the Experimental and Theoretical Power Output of a Hybrid Photovoltaic Cell
Authors: Paul Damasen Ikwaba
Published: March 2019

In this paper, experimental and theoretical power output of a hybrid photovoltaic cell were analysed and compared for three different weather conditions (clear sky, partial cloudy, and overcast days). The hybrid photovoltaic cell consisted of low efficiency cell (mono-crystalline) and strips of Bosch M 2BB mono-crystalline cell as high efficiency cell. The current and voltage for the experimental results were measured by using optimal resistive load method. Theoretical daily power output of the hybrid PV cell was calculated based on the hourly incident energy on each section, the size of the section, and the electrical conversion efficiency of each section. The hybrid cell was evaluated within a low-concentrating symmetric compound parabolic concentrator suitable for building integration and was tilted at 54°. It was found that the theoretical daily power output on a clear sky, partial cloudy, and overcast days was higher than the experimental results by 136%, 109%, and 121%, respectively. The discrepancy was due to losses as the result of connecting wires series resistance effect, operating temperature effect, and the consequence of the fixed resistive load. However, it was the value of the optimal resistive load that had much impact on the experimental power output. To eliminate the restriction of the optimal resistive load on the experimental results, it is recommended to use data acquisition systems such as photovoltaic peak power measuring device 6020C 6020C or Keithley 2651A source-meter.
Impact of Obesity on Clinicopathologic Characteristics and Disease Prognosis in Pre- and Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Patients: A Retrospective Institutional Study
Authors: Ayoub Nehad M. , Yaghan Rami J. , Abdo Nour M. , Matalka Ismail I. , Akhu-Zaheya Laila M. , Al-Mohtaseb Alia H.
Published: March 2019

Purpose. To investigate the association between obesity and breast cancer clinicopathologic characteristics at presentation along with prognostic impact among Jordanian breast cancer patients. Such data are lacking in Arabian countries. Methods. In this retrospective study, 348 breast cancer patients were included. Analyses were conducted for associations between body mass index (BMI) and age at diagnosis, tumor clinicopathologic characteristics, and molecular subtypes. Eight prognostic factors were considered, and total prognostic scores were calculated. The analysis was stratified by menopausal status. Multivariate logistic stepwise regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors for breast cancer recurrence and death. Results. Mean age at diagnosis was 50.98 ± 10.96 years. Mean BMI at diagnosis was 29.52 ± 5.32 kg/m2. Mean age at diagnosis was significantly higher for overweight and obese patients compared to underweight/normal patients (P<0.001). A significant positive correlation was observed between patient age and BMI at diagnosis (r = 0.251, P<0.001). Grade of carcinoma was significantly correlated with BMI in the whole population examined (P=0.003). Obese breast cancer patients had significantly higher prognostic scores compared to nonobese cases, indicating worse prognostic features at presentation (P=0.034). Stratification of data analysis based on menopausal status revealed significant associations between obesity and each of tumor stage and grade among postmenopausal but not premenopausal patients (P=0.019 and P=0.031, respectively). Similarly, postmenopausal obese patients had significantly higher prognostic scores compared to nonobese counterparts (P=0.007), indicating worse prognosis, a finding which was also absent among premenopausal breast cancer patients. No significant association between BMI with expression status of hormone receptors, HER2, lymphovascular invasion, and molecular subtypes was found among patients. BMI was a significant predictor for disease recurrence in which obese breast cancer patients had greater odds (2-fold) to develop locoregional and distant recurrence compared to nonobese cases (P=0.011). Conclusions. Obesity was associated with advanced stage and grade of breast carcinoma at diagnosis. The impact of BMI on clinicopathologic characteristics and prognosis was confined to postmenopausal cases. Jordanian obese breast cancer patients are at greater risk of breast cancer recurrence and reduced survival compared to their nonobese counterparts.
An Analysis of the Mechanical Properties of the Ponseti Method in Clubfoot Treatment
Authors: Kadhum Murtaza , Lee Mu-Huan , Czernuszka Jan , Lavy Chris
Published: March 2019

Congenital clubfoot is a complex pediatric foot deformity, occurring in approximately 1 in 1000 live births and resulting in significant disability, deformity, and pain if left untreated. The Ponseti method of manipulation is widely recognized as the gold standard treatment for congenital clubfoot; however, its mechanical aspects have not yet been fully explored. During the multiple manipulation-casting cycles, the tendons and ligaments on the medial and posterior aspect of the foot and ankle, which are identified as the rate-limiting tissues, usually undergo weekly sequential stretches, with a plaster of Paris cast applied after the stretch to maintain the length gained. This triggers extracellular matrix remodeling and tissue growth, but due to the viscoelastic properties of tendons and ligaments, the initial strain size, rate, and loading history will affect the relaxation behavior and mechanical strength of the tissue. To increase the efficiency of the Ponseti treatment, we discuss the theoretical possibilities of decreasing the size of the strain step and interval of casting and/or increasing the overall number of casts. This modification may provide more tensile stimuli, allow more time for remodeling, and preserve the mechanical integrity of the soft tissues.
Bilateral Sensorineural Deafness in a Young Pregnant Female Presenting with a Fever: A Rare Complication of a Reemerging Disease—Spotted Fever Group Rickettsioses
Authors: Kariyawasam A. G. T. A. , Palangasinghe D. R. , Fonseka C. L. , De Silva P. U. T. , Kanakkahewa T. E. , Dahanayaka N. J.
Published: March 2019

Background. Rickettsial illnesses are a group of arthropod-borne remerging diseases. They are subdivided into three groups as typhus, spotted fever, and scrub typhus group. Complications such as reversible bilateral deafness due to spotted fever rickettsioses are infrequently reported in the literature.Case Presentation. We present a young pregnant female who developed bilateral sensorineural deafness on the fifth day of an acute febrile illness with a maculopapular rash.Rickettsia conoriiIgG (>1/450) became highly positive, and she received oral azithromycin for ten days with complete resolution of fever and rash. The sensorineural deafness slowly improved over several months.Conclusion. Sensorineural deafness is a rare complication of spotted fever group rickettsioses. Since usage of doxycycline is controversial in pregnancy, azithromycin gave a favourable recovery of fever. Sensorineural deafness took several months to resolve after completion of antibiotics.
Neuropsychiatric Manifestations of Partial Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Popoola Olusegun , Olayinka Olaniyi , Azizi Heela , Ojimba Chiedozie , Khan Tasmia , Kallikkadan Jisha , Ahmad Maleeha , Jay Joshua , Canale Cecilia , Langdon Sherina , Kahn Alexa , Nuthalapati Deepa , Jayaraj Sinthuja , Mahbub Ayesha , Olaolu Olalekan , Kodjo Kodjovi , Olupona Tolu , Nisenoff Carolina , Jolayemi Ayodeji
Published: March 2019

Agenesis of the corpus callosum is a rare congenital defect that has been linked to psychiatric disorders, cognitive deficits, learning disabilities, and developmental delays. We present the case of a patient with partial agenesis of the corpus callosum who exhibits depressed mood, transient loss of memory, and history of cognitive, social, and behavioral disturbances that developed during his childhood. Recent and pertinent literature was reviewed and the agenesis of the corpus callosum and its associated neuropsychiatric manifestations are discussed.
Designing a New Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) System for Testing Viscoelastic Materials at High Frequencies
Authors: Esmaeeli Roja , Aliniagerdroudbari Haniph , Hashemi Seyed Reza , JBR Chiran , Farhad Siamak
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study is to design a new dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) measurement system that can operate for shear tests at frequencies as high as 10 kHz with strain amplitudes sufficient for viscoelastic materials operating in high-frequency deformation applications, such as tire rubbers. The available DMA systems in market cannot effectively operate for accurate and direct measurement of viscoelastic material properties for applications dealing with high-frequency deformation of materials. Due to this, the available DMA systems are used for indirect measurements at low frequencies and low temperatures, followed by using time-temperature superposition principle to predict the properties at high frequencies. The goal of this study is to make the range of the test broad enough to eliminate the use of the time-temperature superposition principle in the determination of properties of viscoelastic materials. Direct measurement of viscoelastic material properties and increasing the accuracy of results are the main motivations to design a new DMA system. For this purpose, the state-of-the-art technologies to achieve high frequencies and strain amplitudes as well as instrumentation and control of the system are studied. The design process is presented in this paper.
Vision-Based Object Recognition and Precise Localization for Space Body Control
Authors: Shangguan Zeyu , Wang Lingyu , Zhang Jianquan , Dong Wenbo
Published: March 2019

The space motion control is an important issue on space robot, rendezvous and docking, small satellite formation, and some on-orbit services. The motion control needs robust object detection and high-precision object localization. Among many sensing systems such as laser radar, inertia sensors, and GPS navigation, vision-based navigation is more adaptive to noncontact applications in the close distance and in high-dynamic environment. In this work, a vision-based system serving for a free-floating robot inside the spacecraft is introduced, and the method to measure space body 6-DOF position-attitude is presented. At first, the deep-learning method is applied for robust object detection in the complex background, and after the object is navigated at the close distance, the reference marker is used for more precise matching and edge detection. After the accurate coordinates are gotten in the image sequence, the object space position and attitude are calculated by the geometry method and used for fine control. The experimental results show that the recognition method based on deep-learning at a distance and marker matching in close range effectively eliminates the false target recognition and improves the precision of positioning at the same time. The testing result shows the recognition accuracy rate is 99.8% and the localization precision is far less than 1% in 1.5 meters. The high-speed camera and embedded electronic platform driven by GPU are applied for accelerating the image processing speed so that the system works at best by 70 frames per second. The contribution of this work is to introduce the deep-learning method for precision motion control and in the meanwhile ensure both the robustness and real time of the system. It aims at making such vision-based system more practicable in the real-space applications.
Use of Thromboelastogram in Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for a Patient with Pulmonary Hemorrhage due to Microscopic Polyangiitis
Authors: Tong Chak-Kwan , Jin Jun , Du Qian
Published: March 2019

Systemic heparinisation is required for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy, to prevent clotting of circuit and formation of thrombus in patient. Activated clotting time (ACT) or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) has been the mainstay of monitoring of heparin dose. Thromboelastogram (TEG) is increasingly being used again in recent years with the advancement in technology. Its clinical usefulness in the monitoring of anticoagulation of ECMO therapy is demonstrated in the case presented. Our patient suffered from severe hemoptysis due to active microscopic polyangiitis and respiratory failure. Heparin infusion was given at the initiation of ECMO support without further aggravation of hemoptysis. Dose of heparin was adjusted successfully with the integration of the clotting profile and TEG results.
Gubernaculum Sparing Laparoscopic Orchiopexy in Cryptorchidism with Ipsilateral Congenital Absence of the Vas Deferens: Unique Outcome
Authors: Althobaiti Ebtehal , Badr Hattan , Aloqalaa Maryam , Alsharif Raghdah , Alqarni Naif
Published: March 2019

Congenital absence of the vas deferens (CAVD) is an uncommon anomaly that occurs in up to 1% of the male population. It can be associated with various other anomalies, including cryptorchidism and renal anomalies, such as renal agenesis. We here present a case of cryptorchidism with ipsilateral congenital absence of the vas deferens and renal agenesis and used the Stephen-Fowler technique for Orchiopexy depending on gubernacular vessels. A 7-month-old boy was referred to our center with left grade 2 hydronephrosis, right renal agenesis, and right impalpable, undescended testis. Examination under anesthesia and laparoscopic exploration with staged Stephen-Fowler orchiopexy were performed. The patient was followed up at 3, 6, and 12 months and had an excellent outcome. Cryptorchidism with congenital ipsilateral absence of the vas deferens and renal agenesis is a rare diagnostic entity. Our case supports the suggested theory that the gubernacular vessels can increase the blood supply to the testis, although further studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Treating Penile Cancer in the Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy Era
Authors: Hui Gavin , Ghafouri Sanaz N. , Shen John , Liu Sandy , Drakaki Alexandra
Published: March 2019

While localized penile cancers are typically treated surgically and metastatic penile cancers benefit from standard chemotherapy, there have been studies on the horizon demonstrating immunotherapy as a novel approach to metastatic penile cancers that have failed standard chemotherapy. We report a case series of two patients who improved on immunotherapy after progressing with standard chemotherapy regimens. The first case describes a 64-year-old male with a penile mass and significant lymphadenopathy who had surgical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy prior to continued disease progression. He was started on anti-EGFR treatment and improved initially, but he eventually had progression of disease. The second case describes a 79-year-old male with a penile mass who was treated with surgical resection and started on adjuvant chemoradiation, but he developed recurrence and nodal involvement. Therefore, second-line therapy of the PD-L1 inhibitor was started in this patient. There were no available clinical trials for penile cancer patients who progressed beyond the standard surgical therapy and chemotherapy.
Heat-Treated Wood as a Substrate for Coatings, Weathering of Heat-Treated Wood, and Coating Performance on Heat-Treated Wood
Authors: Jirouš-Rajković Vlatka , Miklečić Josip
Published: March 2019

Heat treatment is a method of wood modification with increasing market acceptance in Europe. The major patented European commercial heat treatment processes have trade names ThermoWood, Platowood, Retiwood, Le Bois Perdure, and Oil-Heat-Treated Wood (OHT). To what extent modification of wood affects the resistance of wood to weathering is also an important aspect for wood applications, especially where appearance is important. Unfortunately, heat-treated wood has poor resistance to weathering, and surface treatment with coatings is required for both protection and aesthetic reasons. As a substrate for coating, heat-treated wood has altered characteristics such as lower hygroscopicity and liquid water uptake and changed acidity, wettability, surface free energy, and anatomical microstructure. Various wood species, heat treatment method, treatment intensity, and treatment conditions exhibited a different extent of changes in wood properties. These altered properties could affect coating performance on heat-treated wood. The reported changes in acidity and in surface energy due to heat treatments are inconsistent with one another depending on wood species and temperature of the treatments. This paper gives an overview of the research results with regards to properties of heat-treated wood that can affect coating performance and weathering of uncoated and coated heat-treated wood.
Accelerated Oxalosis Contributing to Delayed Graft Function after Renal Transplantation
Authors: Kelly Yvelynne P. , Weins Astrid , Yeung Melissa Y.
Published: March 2019

Hyperoxaluria is an important and underrecognized cause for allograft dysfunction and loss after transplantation. It is potentially treatable if recognized in a timely fashion. Research is ongoing to expand the array of therapeutic options available to treat this. We present a case of a 59-year-old gentleman who underwent deceased donor renal transplantation that was complicated by delayed graft function necessitating continuation of renal replacement therapy. His initial biopsy showed extensive acute tubular necrosis with associated peritubular capillaritis and interstitial nephritis and oxalate crystals in several tubules. Despite receiving methylprednisolone to treat moderate acute cellular rejection, he remained dialysis dependent with minimal urine output. An interval renal allograft biopsy revealed residual acute tubular necrosis with extensive oxalate crystals now visible in many tubules. His plasma oxalate level was concurrently elevated to 19.3 μmol/L (reference range ≤ 1.9 μmol/L). He commenced calcium citrate to manage his hyperoxaluria and ultimately became dialysis independent at 3 weeks after transplantation. This case provides an important example of accelerated oxalate nephropathy as an underappreciated contributor to delayed graft function after renal transplantation. Our accompanying discussion provides an update on current therapeutic measures for managing this challenging condition.
A Clinical TB Detection Method Based on Molecular Typing Technique with Quality Control
Authors: Feng Tienan , Cheng Yan , Yu Suwen , Jiang Feng , Su Min , Chen Jin
Published: March 2019

The gold standard for diagnosing pulmonary Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) is the detection of tubercle bacillus in patient sputum samples. However, current methods either require long waiting times to culture the bacteria or have a risk of getting false-positive results due to cross-contamination. In this study, a method to detect tubercle bacillus based on the molecular typing technique is presented. This method can detect genetic units, variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR), which are the characteristic of tuberculosis (TB), and performs quality control using a mathematical model, ensuring the reliability of the results. Compared to other methods, the proposed method was able to process and diagnose a large volume of samples in a run time of six hours, with high sensitivity and specificity. Our method is also in the pipeline for implementation in clinical testing. Reliable and confirmed results are stored into a database, and these data are used to further refine the model. As the volume of data processed from reliable samples increases, the diagnostic power of the model improves. In addition to improving the quality control scheme, the collected data can be also used to support other TB research, such as that regarding the evolution of the tubercle bacillus.