bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinematics Performance and Dynamics Analysis of a Novel Parallel Perfusion Manipulator with Passive Link
Authors: Yang Hui , Fang Hairong , Fang Yuefa , Qu Haibo
Published: November 2018

In order to solve the problem of the honeycombs perfusion in the thermal protection system of the spacecraft, this paper presents a novel parallel perfusion manipulator with one translational and two rotational (1T2R) degrees of freedom (DOFs), which can be used to construct a 5-DOF hybrid perfusion system for the perfusion of the honeycombs. The proposed 3PSS&PU parallel perfusion manipulator is mainly utilized as the main body of the hybrid perfusion system. The inverse kinematics and the Jacobian matrix of the proposed parallel manipulator are obtained. The analysis of kinematics performance for the proposed parallel manipulator including workspace, singularity, dexterity, and stiffness is conducted. Based on the virtual work principle and the link Jacobian matrix, the dynamic model of the parallel perfusion manipulator is carried out. With reference to dynamic equations, the relationship between the driving force and the mechanism parameters can be derived. In order to verify the correctness of the kinematics and dynamics model, the comparison of theoretical and simulation curves of the motion parameters related to the driving sliders is performed. Corresponding analyses illustrate that the proposed parallel perfusion possesses good kinematics performance and could satisfy the perfusion requirements of the honeycombs. The correctness of the established kinematics and dynamics models is proved, which has great significance for the experimental research of the perfusion system.
Non-Darcy Flow in Hydraulic Flushing Hole Enlargement-Enhanced Gas Drainage: Does It Really Matter?
Authors: Liu Qingquan , Cheng Yuanping , Dong Jun , Liu Zhengdong , Zhang Kaizhong , Wang Liang
Published: November 2018

In recent years, the non-Darcy flow has seen a significant increase in interest in conventional and unconventional gas developments. The nonlinear behavior can be described by adding a quadratic term of the velocity with the permeability-dependent β factor in Darcy’s law. The methods for improving permeability such as the hydraulic flushing hole enlargement (HFHE) technique can remarkably enhance the coal permeability thus changing the β factor. However, few studies have been done previously to seek how this non-Darcy flow impacts the permeability-enhanced gas drainage. In this study, a fully coupled coal deformation and damage, the non-Darcy flow of free methane gas in the fractures, and Fickian diffusion of adsorbed methane in the coal matrix model were developed. The Klinkenberg effect has been taken into account as a reference object. A series of simulation scenarios were carried out to evaluate and compare the influences of the non-Darcy effect, gas-coal interaction effect, and Klinkenberg effect on the HFHE-enhanced gas drainage. Results of the simulation illustrate that the HFHE technique can significantly improve the gas drainage efficiency by permeability enhancement. But the HFHE-enhanced gas drainage is unique to the other gas developments with high or low flow rates; a slight pressure gradient and short drainage time make the non-Darcy effect fail to generate cumulative influence on the HFHE-enhanced gas drainage.
Effect of Mining Thickness on Overburden Movement and Underground Pressure Characteristics for Extrathick Coal Seam by Sublevel Caving with High Bottom Cutting Height
Authors: Yang Yongkang , Ma Yanrong , Ji Chunxu , Kang Tianhe , Guo Xingyun
Published: November 2018

Because the coal seam is particularly thick and the mining intensity is large, the mining of extremely thick coal seams often causes a wide range of disturbed fractures, which in turn induces the phenomenon of strong underground pressure such as induced support crushing and water inrush. Through theoretical analysis, laboratory similarity simulation test, and other methods, this paper studies the effect of mining thickness on overburden movement and underground pressure characteristics for extremely thick coal seams by sublevel caving with high bottom cutting height. Some conclusions can be drawn as follows: (i) under the “beam‐hinged cantilever beam rocks” structure theory, the rock pillar thickness which needs to be controlled increases linearly as a function of mining thickness is achieved, and the reason of increased of support resistance in full‐mechanized caving mining in extremely thick seams is explained in the theory; (ii) based on the results of the theoretical analysis and the lab simulation tests, the law of the abutment pressure peak is inverse to the full‐seam mining thickness, and the distance between abutment peak and working face is proportional to the full‐seam mining thickness, that is to say that the damage range of overlying strata increased; (iii) there are three working states of loading support in extrathick coal seams, such as normal circumstance, lower main roof pressure, and higher main roof pressure, meanwhile these states keep changing; (iv) under the guarantee of stope safety conditions, due to lower support strength, it will benefit the special thick seam top‐coal caving under normal circumstance; (v) increasing the supporting strength can balance the impact loading under the lower main roof pressure, guaranteeing valid support for roof strata; (vi) by releasing high pressure, due to lower production, lower recovery rate of coal and other measures guarantee the stability of the stope support in the case of the higher main roof pressure.
Association of Angiogenic and Inflammatory Markers with Power Doppler Ultrasound Vascularity Grade and DAS28-CRP in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Misra Sanchaita , Mondal Sumantro , Chatterjee Sudipta , Guin Aharna , Sinhamahapatra Pradyot , Ghosh Alakendu
Published: November 2018

Objective. Upregulation of various proinflammatory and angiogenic mediators orchestrates the typical pathological synovial alterations in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). DAS28-CRP is commonly used for assessment of RA disease activity and power Doppler ultrasonography (PDUS) is an important modality for assessing synovial vascularity. This study was intended to look for the association of various inflammatory and angiogenic mediators, with respect to different PDUS vascularity grades and disease activity status, in early RA patients. Methods. 50 early RA patients (<6 months disease duration) with either moderate or high disease activity and 30 healthy controls were included in this study. RA patients were subcategorized based on PDUS vascularity grading of wrist joints. Serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF- α); interleukin-6(IL-6)] and angiogenic markers [angiopoietin-1 and 2 (Ang-1 and Ang-2); vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) ] were measured and compared among different patient subgroups. Results. Among 50 patients, 22 and 28 patients had moderate and high DAS28-CRP score, respectively. Patients with grade 3 PDUS score, even with moderate DAS value, showed a significant rise in Ang-1 (p<0.02), VEGF (p<0.008), Ang-2 (p <0.001), and TNF-α (p<0.005) level compared to grade 2 PDUS patients with high DAS values. Conclusion. Higher serum level of angiogenic and inflammatory markers was noted among patients with moderate disease activity but with advanced PDUS vascularity (grade 3) in comparison to high disease activity group with less severe PDUS vascularity (grade 2). PDUS vascularity grading better reflects some markers of angiogenesis and inflammation, than composite disease activity index.
Thromboelastography and Thromboelastometry in Assessment of Fibrinogen Deficiency and Prediction for Transfusion Requirement: A Descriptive Review
Authors: Peng Henry T. , Nascimento Bartolomeu , Beckett Andrew
Published: November 2018

Fibrinogen is crucial for the formation of blood clot and clinical outcomes in major bleeding. Both Thromboelastography (TEG) and Rotational Thromboelastometry (ROTEM) have been increasingly used to diagnose fibrinogen deficiency and guide fibrinogen transfusion in trauma and surgical bleeding patients. We conducted a comprehensive and comparative review on the technologies and clinical applications of two typical functional fibrinogen assays using TEG (FF TEG) and ROTEM (FIBTEM) for assessment of fibrinogen level and deficiency, and prediction of transfusion requirement. Clot strength and firmness of FF TEG and ROTEM FIBTEM were the most used parameters, and their associations with fibrinogen levels as measured by Clauss method ranged from 0 to 0.9 for FF TEG and 0.27 to 0.94 for FIBTEM. A comparison of the interchangeability and clinical performance of the functional fibrinogen assays using the two systems showed that the results were correlated, but are not interchangeable between the two systems. It appears that ROTEM FIBTEM showed better associations with the Clauss method and more clinical use for monitoring fibrinogen deficiency and predicting transfusion requirements including fibrinogen replacement than FF TEG. TEG and ROTEM functional fibrinogen tests play important roles in the diagnosis of fibrinogen-related coagulopathy and guidance of transfusion requirements. Despite the fact that high-quality evidence is still needed, the two systems are likely to remain popular for the hemostatic management of bleeding patients.
The Increase of Circulating PD-1- and PD-L1-Expressing Lymphocytes in Endometriosis: Correlation with Clinical and Laboratory Parameters
Authors: Walankiewicz Monika , Grywalska Ewelina , Polak Grzegorz , Korona-Glowniak Izabela , Witt Elzbieta , Surdacka Agata , Kotarski Jan , Rolinski Jacek
Published: November 2018

The cause of endometriosis remains unknown. However, studies investigating the link between this condition and the immune system revealed several immunological abnormalities focused on cell-mediated immunity. As a major immune checkpoint, programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) displays an important inhibitory function in the maintenance of peripheral tolerance. The expression of PD-1 and its ligand (PD-L1) may contribute to continuous T cell activation and development of inflammation and injury of the tissue. To our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating frequencies of PD-1-positive T CD3+ cells (CD4+ and CD8+) and B cells (CD19+) in patients with endometriosis. Peripheral blood (PB) samples from 25 female patients and 20 healthy age and sex-matched subjects serving as controls were used in the study. Using flow cytometric analysis, we assessed the differences in the frequencies of PD-1-positive T and B lymphocytes in the study group and healthy individuals. Alteration of the PD-1/PD-L1 axis may contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis, as patients with advanced disease are characterized by higher frequencies of PD-1-positive T and B cells. Expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 on T and B cells could represent the hallmark of immune system reaction to chronic antigenic exposition in patients with endometriosis.
Functionally Improved Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Better Treat Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Chen Zhi , Chen Long , Zeng Chunyu , Wang Wei Eric
Published: November 2018

Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation is considered a promising approach and has made significant progress in preclinical studies and clinical trials for treating MI. However, hurdles including poor survival, retention, homing, and differentiation capacity largely limit the therapeutic effect of transplanted MSCs. Many strategies such as preconditioning, genetic modification, cotransplantation with bioactive factors, and tissue engineering were developed to improve the survival and function of MSCs. On the other hand, optimizing the hostile transplantation microenvironment of the host myocardium is also of importance. Here, we review the modifications of MSCs as well as the host myocardium to improve the efficacy of MSC-based therapy against MI.
Axial Ratio-Tuned Circularly Polarized Square Patch Antenna with Long Stubs
Authors: Sung Y.
Published: November 2018

In this letter, we propose a circularly polarized (CP) square antenna that can change the frequency of the minimum axial ratio (AR). The proposed antenna is designed in a very straightforward manner by applying four long stubs to a square patch. The length of one of the stubs is different from that of the other three stubs, and the structural asymmetry is realized in such a manner that the CP characteristic is conveniently obtained. The proposed antenna can independently adjust the resonant frequency and the frequency of the minimum AR value. Therefore, the resonant frequency and the frequency at which the minimum AR value appears can be easily matched. By applying this method, six antennas with the adequate CP characteristic, notwithstanding the varied stub widths (1.5~6.5 mm), are designed.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome Presenting with Atypical Findings: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Cerrone Paolo , Sucapane Patrizia , Totaro Rocco , Sacco Simona , Carolei Antonio , Marini Carmine
Published: November 2018

Background. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is characterized by a variable association of symptoms including headache, consciousness impairment, visual disturbances, seizures, and focal neurological signs. Treating the underlying cause usually leads to partial or complete resolution of symptoms within days or weeks. Brain MRI findings include hyperintensities on T2-weighted sequences and their reversibility on follow-up exams. We describe two patients, one with an atypical clinical presentation characterized by a severe and prolonged impairment of consciousness and the other with atypical neuroimaging findings. Case Presentation. The first patient was a 42-year-old woman, with a negative medical history, presenting with seizures, lethargy, and left hemiparesis, 60 hours after uncomplicated delivery. Brain MRI showed an atypical pattern of alterations, with patchy asymmetric distribution in all lobes. Symptoms completely resolved after twelve days. The second patient was a 59-year-old woman with a history of hypertension, presenting with severe impairment of consciousness, vision loss, and seizures. Symptoms partially resolved after three weeks. Conclusion. PRES is characterized by reversible symptoms and radiological findings. Brain MRI usually shows widespread oedema in white matter with typical patterns. The cases we described suggest that PRES may presents with atypical symptoms and radiological manifestations, mimicking other neurological conditions.
Upper Semi-Weyl and Upper Semi-Browder Spectra of Unbounded Upper Triangular Operator Matrices
Authors: Bai Wurichaihu , Bai Qingmei , Chen Alatancang
Published: November 2018

In this paper, we study the unbounded upper triangular operator matrix with diagonal domain. Some sufficient and necessary conditions are given under which upper semi-Weyl spectrum (resp. upper semi-Browder spectrum) of such operator matrix is equal to the union of the upper semi-Weyl spectra (resp. the upper semi-Browder spectra) of its diagonal entries. As an application, the corresponding spectral properties of Hamiltonian operator matrix are obtained.
There Is No Impact of Diabetes on the Endothelial Function of Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Coutinho Mariana Nogueira , Carvalho Aluizio Barbosa , Dalboni Maria Aparecida , Mouro Margaret Gori , Higa Elisa Mieko Suemitsu , Costa-Hong Valéria , Bortolotto Luiz Aparecido , Figueiredo Rejane Augusta de Oliveira , Canziani Maria Eugênia Fernandes
Published: November 2018

Background. Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) have increased risk of endothelial dysfunction, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. Several studies have separately analyzed endothelial function in these populations. However, data of patients with both CKD and DM are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the presence of DM has any additional effect on the endothelial dysfunction of CKD patients.Methods. We measured endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), stromal-derived factor 1 alpha (SDF-1α), serum and urinary nitric oxide (NO), flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and pulse wave velocity (PWV) in 37 CKD patients with DM (CKD-DM group) and in 37 without DM (CKD group).Results. CKD-DM group had a higher prevalence of obesity (P<0.01), previous myocardial infarction (P=0.02), myocardial revascularization (P=0.04), and a trend for more peripheral artery disease (P=0.07). Additionally, CKD-DM group had higher EPC (P=0.001) and PWV (P<0.001) values. On the other hand, no difference in SDF-1αand serum or urinary NO and FMD was observed between the groups.Conclusions. Endothelial dysfunction is frequent in CKD patients, and an additive effect of diabetes cannot be implicated, suggesting the predominant role of uremia in this condition.
Evaluation of a Porous Bioabsorbable Interbody Mg-Zn Alloy Cage in a Goat Cervical Spine Model
Authors: Xu Haocheng , Zhang Fan , Wang Hongli , Geng Fang , Shao Minghao , Xu Shun , Xia Xinlei , Ma Xiaosheng , Lu Feizhou , Jiang Jianyuan
Published: November 2018

Purpose. Bioabsorbable Mg-based implants were previously assessed due to their intrinsic advantages, but Mg-based cage related research is limited. The specific blood supply and stress of the intervertebral environment can affect the function of Mg-based implants. The objective of this study was to investigate the performance of a bioabsorbable Mg-Zn alloy cage in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and evaluate the control of degradation of the Mg-Zn cage surface modified by microarc oxidation (MAO) technology containing Si under an intervertebral microenvironment. Methods. Twenty-four goats were divided into four groups according to the experimental period and all underwent ACDF at C2-3 and C4-5 with porous Mg-Zn cage covered with a MAO/Si-containing coating in one intervertebral space and with autologous iliac bone in another space. After 3, 6, 12, or 24 weeks after operation, the cervical spine specimens were harvested to evaluate the biocompatibility, fusion status, and degradation conditions using blood analysis, radiology, biomechanical testing, histology, and micro-CT. Results. The Mg-Zn cages showed ideal biocompatibility and biomechanical characterization; however, the fusion state, as evaluated with radiology and histology, was not acceptable. Modified by the MAO/Si-containing coating, the degradation rate of the Mg-Zn cages was controllable but slower than expected. Conclusion. MAO/Si-containing coating Mg-Zn alloy cages demonstrated excessive control of degradation and fusion failure after 24 weeks postoperatively. We conclude that further studies should be designed to improve the using of Mg-based materials at the intervertebral space.
Blue Rubber Bleb Nevus Syndrome with Long-Term Follow-Up: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Nakajima Hideaki , Nouso Hiroshi , Urushihara Naoto , Fukumoto Koji , Yamoto Masaya , Miyake Hiromu , Sekioka Akinori , Nomura Akiyoshi , Yamada Yutaka
Published: November 2018

Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome (BRBNS) is a rare disease in which venous malformations (VMs) involve any body organ, most commonly the skin and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Treatment of BRBNS aims at preserving the GI tract as much as possible. Although there are several dozen case reports about BRBNS that describe short-term clinical courses, a few provide an account of long-term clinical course. Here, we report a case of BRBNS in a girl that required multiple abdominal surgeries due to the GI VMs and a recurrence at an interval of 14 years. The preferred approach for gastrointestinal VMs involves the complete resection of all lesions without residual VMs. It is important to bear in mind the possibility of delayed recurrence of GI VMs after surgical or endoscopic treatment.
An Experimental Study of Horizontal Bearing Capacity of Vertical Steel Floral Tube Micropiles with Double Grouting
Authors: Wang Kaiyang , Shang Yanjun
Published: November 2018

This paper examines the performance of a novel technology, vertical steel floral tube micropiles with double grouting. It is the combination of micropile technology and double grouting technology. A large‐scale model tank was applied to impart horizontal bearing capacity, and the slope soil pressure and flexural performance of the micropile were investigated under four experimental conditions. The peak grouting pressure during the double grouting process was defined as the fracturing pressure of the double grouting, and it was positively correlated to the interval time between first grouting and secondary grouting. Compared with traditional grouting, double grouting increased the horizontal bearing capacity of the single micropile with the vertical steel floral tube by 24.42%. The horizontal bearing capacity was also 20.25% higher for the structure with three micropiles, compared with a 3‐fold value of horizontal sliding resistance. In the test, the maximum bending moment acting on the pile above the sliding surface was located 2.0–2.5 m away from the pile top, and the largest negative bending moment acting on the pile below the slip surface was located 4.0 m away from the pile top. The ultimate bending moment of the single pile increased by 12.8 kN·m with double grouting, and the bending resistance increased by 96.2%. The experimental results showed that the double grouting technology significantly improved the horizontal bearing capacity of the micropile with the steel floral tube, and the soil reinforcement performance between piles was more pronounced. Also, the shear capacity and the flexural capacity were significantly improved compared with the original technology.
An Efficient and Flexible Solution for Camera Autocalibration from N≥3 Views
Authors: Tang Rongfu , Deng Baosong , Li Jing , Yan Ye
Published: November 2018

This paper presents an efficient and flexible solution for camera autocalibration from N≥3 views, given image correspondences and zero (or known) skew only. The knowledge is not required on camera motion, 3D information, scene, or internal constraints. Our method is essentially based only on the fundamental matrices and its main virtues are threefold. Firstly, it is shown that, in the center-oriented metric coordinates, the focal length and aspect ratio can be estimated independent of considerable principle point shift (PPs). Thus, our method includes recursive steps: estimating focal length and aspect ratio and then calculating the PPs. Secondly, the optimal geometric constraints are selected for calibration by using error propagation analyses. Thirdly, the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm is adopted for the fast final refinement of four internal parameters. Our method is fast and efficient to derive a unique calibration. Besides, this method can be applied to calibrate the focal length from two views, without requiring the prior knowledge of PPs. Good performance of our method is evaluated and confirmed in both the simulation experiments and the practical tests.
Potentials of Ultrahigh-Field MRI for the Study of Somatosensory Reorganization in Congenital Hemiplegia
Authors: Fiori Simona , Biagi Laura , Cecchi Paolo , Cioni Giovanni , Beani Elena , Tosetti Michela , Cosottini Mirco , Guzzetta Andrea
Published: November 2018

Reorganization of somatosensory function influences the clinical recovery of subjects with congenital unilateral brain lesions. Ultrahigh-field (UHF) functional MRI (fMRI) with the use of a 7 T magnet has the potential to contribute fundamentally to the current knowledge of such plasticity mechanisms. The purpose of this study was to obtain preliminary information on the possible advantages of the study of somatosensory reorganization at UHF fMRI. We enrolled 6 young adults (mean age 25 ± 6 years) with congenital unilateral brain lesions (4 in the left hemisphere and 2 in the right hemisphere; 4 with perilesional motor reorganization and 2 with contralesional motor reorganization) and 7 healthy age-matched controls. Nondominant hand sensory assessment included stereognosis and 2-point discrimination. Task-dependent fMRI was performed to elicit a somatosensory activation by using a safe and quantitative device developed ad hoc to deliver a reproducible gentle tactile stimulus to the distal phalanx of thumb and index fingers. Group analysis was performed in the control group. Individual analyses in the native space were performed with data of hemiplegic subjects. The gentle tactile stimulus showed great accuracy in determining somatosensory cortex activation. Single-subject gentle tactile stimulus showed an S1 activation in the postcentral gyrus and an S2 activation in the inferior parietal insular cortex. A correlation emerged between an index of S1 reorganization (distance between expected and reorganized S1) and sensory deficit (p<0.05) in subjects with hemiplegia, with higher distance related to a more severe sensory deficit. Increase in spatial resolution at 7 T allows a better localization of reorganized tactile function validated by its correlation with clinical measures. Our results support the S1 early-determination hypothesis and support the central role of topography of reorganized S1 compared to a less relevant S1-M1 integration.
Adverse Events of Antiepileptic Drugs Using Indonesian Version of Liverpool Adverse Events Profile
Authors: Budikayanti Astri , Qadri Lubna Muhammad , Syeban Zakiah , Indrawati Luh Ari , Octaviana Fitri
Published: November 2018

Introduction. Adverse events (AEs) associated with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) affect people with epilepsy’s (PWE) quality of life. A study conducted in 15 European countries showed that the AEs prevalence of AEDs in PWE was up to 80%. To date, there are no validated screening instruments to detect AEs of AEDs in Indonesian PWE. Therefore its epidemiology is currently unknown. This study aimed to validate the Indonesian version of Liverpool Adverse Events Profile (LAEP), consequently increasing physicians’ awareness toward the probability of AEs and its necessary evaluation. Furthermore, this study was intended to determine the AEs prevalence of AEDs in Indonesian PWE. Methods. The questionnaire was translated from English into Indonesian version. The validity and reliability were tested using Spearman correlation and Cronbach’s alpha measurement. An observational cross-sectional study was carried out on consecutive PWE in outpatient clinic, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital. We analyzed duration of epilepsy, onset of epilepsy, seizure frequency, type of epilepsy, etiology and epilepsy syndrome, number of AEDs, duration of AED use, and comorbidity. Results. All of the 19 items in the questionnaire were valid, with correlation coefficient ranging from 0.465 to 0.690 (moderate-strong correlation). Cronbach’s alpha value was 0.846 (good consistency). The total of 90 subjects were enrolled with 91% screened as having AEs using LAEP questionnaire. The most common AEs were tiredness (67.8%), sleepiness (66.7%), memory problems (62.2%), and difficulty in concentrating (56.7%). The only clinical variable that influenced AEs was polytherapy. Conclusion. The Indonesian version of LAEP was a valid and reliable instrument to screen AE of AEDs in PWE. Almost all the subjects in this study were suspected having AEs. Polytherapy was the independent factor of AE.
Folate-Functionalized Mesoporous Hollow SnO2 Nanofibers as a Targeting Drug Carrier to Improve the Antitumor Effect of Paclitaxel for Liver Cancer Therapy
Authors: Lv Huiling , Wu Chao , Liu Xuan , Bai Andi , Cao Yue , Shang Wenjing , Hu Lili , Liu Ying
Published: November 2018

In this study, we prepared PTX-loaded mesoporous hollow SnO2 nanofibers conjugated with folic acid (SFNFP) for liver cancer therapy. According to SEM and TEM characterization, SFNF showed a mesoporous hollow structure. The average outer diameter was 200 nm, and the wall thickness was 50 nm. The DSC and XRD study showed that PTX in the channels of nanofibers was present in an amorphous state. The in vitro release experiments demonstrated that SFNF could efficiently improve the dissolution rate of PTX. Both in vitro cell experiments and in vivo antitumor experiments showed that SFNFP could efficiently inhibit the growth of liver cancer cells. Therefore, SFNF is a promising targeting antitumor drug delivery carrier.
An Analytical Study of Square CFT Columns in Bracing Connection Subjected to Axial Loading
Authors: Pan Jianrong , Wang Peng , Zheng Yanjun , Wang Zhan , Liu Deming
Published: November 2018

This paper presents the behavior of square concrete‐filled tubular (CFT) columns with different penetrating gusset plates under axial load. Load transfer mechanism in the CFT columns including load distribution between gusset plate and core concrete and composite action of the gusset plate and steel tube was investigated. Experimental results showed that the axial load can be transferred from the bottom edge, ribs, and the hole of the gusset plate to core concrete through the bearing mechanism. Adding ribs or a hole on the gusset plate can efficiently facilitate load transmission and improve the composite action. Numerical models were established to determine the distribution of axial forces among members in the square CFT column. Then, revised coefficients of elastic modulus for the square CFT column with the gusset plate were proposed.
Recurrent Adenomatous Neuroendocrine Tumor of the Middle Ear: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Vilain J. , Degols J.-C. , Ledeghen S.
Published: November 2018

Middle ear adenomatous neuroendocrine tumor (MEANT) poses a diagnostic challenge. Clinical symptoms are nonspecific. Definite diagnosis is made by histopathological analysis of the tumor after a complete surgical resection based on an extensive computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (CT/MRI). Controversial terminology of the neoplasm arises from the differentiation of this tumor composed of both endocrine and exocrine glands. Middle ear (ME) localization is rare and less aggressive than gastrointestinal tract or lung localizations. Nevertheless, clinical and CT/MRI analyses are necessary follow-ups for preventing or detecting recurrence or metastasis. A case of a female patient aged 26 with recurrent middle ear neuroendocrine adenoma is presented herein.
Effect of Intermediate Stiffeners on the Behaviors of Partially Concrete Encased Steel Beams
Authors: Chen Cheng-Cheng , Sudibyo Teguh
Published: November 2018

Partially concrete encased steel (PE) beams are composite steel beams and concrete elements that present several advantages, such as higher fire resistant, higher flexural capacity, and higher lateral torsional buckling resistant compared to bare steel beams. This paper reports an experimental study of eight PE beams under cyclic loading. The effectiveness of intermediate stiffeners, such as midspan stiffener and plastic hinge zone stiffener, in enhancing composite action and ductility of the PE beams was studied. The ductility performance of PE beams using strengthened beam‐to‐column connection and weakened beam‐to‐column connection was also investigated. The test results show that the plastic hinge zone stiffener performed well and has the potential to replace shear connectors. Strengthened and weakened beam‐to‐column connections can be implemented in PE beams to enhance the ductility of the PE beams; with the details of both strengthened and weakened beam‐to‐column connections determined by bare steel shape instead of the whole section. In addition, the suggestions to prevent premature failure of weakened beam‐to‐column connection were provide.
Consensus of Delayed Fractional‐Order Multiagent Systems Based on State‐Derivative Feedback
Authors: Liu Jun , Qin Kaiyu , Chen Wei , Li Ping
Published: November 2018

A state‐derivative feedback (SDF) is added into the designed control protocol in the existing paper to enhance the robustness of a fractional‐order multiagent system (FMS) against nonuniform time delays in this paper. By applying the graph theory and the frequency‐domain analysis theory, consensus conditions are derived to make the delayed FMS based on state‐derivative feedback reach consensus. Compared with the consensus control protocol designed in the existing paper, the proposed SDF control protocol with nonuniform time delays can make the FMS with SDF and nonuniform time delays tolerate longer time delays, which means that the convergence speed of states of the delayed FMS with SDF is accelerated indirectly. Finally, the corresponding results of simulation are given to verify the feasibility of our theoretical results.
NQO1 Is Regulated by PTEN in Glioblastoma, Mediating Cell Proliferation and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Luo Shilin , Lei Kecheng , Xiang Daxiong , Ye Keqiang
Published: November 2018

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a highly aggressive brain tumor with a dismal prognosis, and the patients carrying EGFR‐driven tumors with PTEN mutation do not respond to anti‐EGFR therapy. The molecular mechanisms for this resistance remain unknown. Here, we show that PTEN induces the expression of NQO1, a flavoenzyme with dual roles in pro‐ and antitumorigenesis that decreases the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which mediates the oxidative stress and GBM cell proliferation. NQO1 is reduced in EGFRvIII‐overexpressed U87MG cells associated with low ROS, whereas NQO1 is highly escalated in PTEN stably expressed U87MG/EGFRvIII cells with high ROS. Interestingly, knockdown of NQO1 augments ROS and diminishes cell proliferation. Conversely, overexpression of NQO1 attenuates ROS and increases cell proliferation. By contrast, overexpression of PINK1, a PTEN‐induced kinase 1, represses ROS and inhibits GBM cell proliferation. Therefore, our findings support that NQO1 displays a paradoxical role in mediating GBM growth in response to tumor suppressor PTEN.
Antioxidant and Hypoglycemic Effects of Acidic‐Extractable Polysaccharides from Cordyceps militaris on Type 2 Diabetes Mice
Authors: Zhao Huajie , Lai Qiangqiang , Zhang Jianjun , Huang Chunyan , Jia Le
Published: November 2018

The present work was performed to evaluate the effect of acidic‐extractable polysaccharides (AE‐PS) from fruit bodies of Cordyceps militaris on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its structural characteristics. The T2DM mice induced by high‐fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ) were administered with 100 and 400 mg/kg AE‐PS for 4 weeks. Our work proved that AE‐PS decreased the levels of serum lipid, lipid peroxidation, and blood glucose; improved glucose and insulin resistance; enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities; and attenuated the injuries of the liver, kidney, and pancreas in T2DM mice. These results might offer references for the exploitation of AE‐PS as functional foods or natural drug source for preventing and treating HFD‐ and STZ‐induced T2DM. Moreover, gas chromatography (GC) results revealed that AE‐PS was heterogeneous and composed of fucose, ribose, arabinose, xylose, mannose, galactose, and glucose with mass percentages of 1.23%, 0.57%, 0.29%, 2.12%, 2.73%, 4.66%, and 88.4%, respectively. Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis indicated that AE‐PS was a pyran‐type polysaccharide with α‐ and β‐configurations.
Appearance of Ferromagnetic Property for Si Nanopolycrystalline Body and Vanishing of Electrical Resistances at Local High Frequencies
Authors: Saiki Taku , Iida Yukio , Inada Mitsuru
Published: November 2018

Reduction in the skin effect for the sintered Si nanopolycrystalline body as an electricity conductor at a high frequency due to its nanostructure was studied. Singular disappearance of electrical resistances near a local high magnetic harmonic frequency of a few MHz was observed. This phenomenon has not been observed for conventional ferromagnetic metals. The measured electrical resistances changed to almost 0 mΩ at room temperature. At the same time, negative resistance of the sintered Si nanopolycrystalline body was observed. It will be applicable to electronic transmittance lines or semiconductors. Numerical calculation was also performed on the electrical resistance with frequency dependency while considering the electric field and magnetic field in the sintered Si nanopolycrystalline body. The experimental and calculated results are compared. The calculation could explain the variation of the relative permittivity of the Si nanopolycrystalline body and the phenomenon for the theoretical disappearance of the resistivity at the MHz frequency. Reduced Si nanoparticles from SiO2powder were synthesized by laser ablation in liquid. A Si nanopolycrystalline body made of the reduced Si nanoparticles was fabricated. It was found by measuring the magnetization property of the body of the sintered Si nanopolycrystalline body which is ferromagnetic. Dangling bonds (unpaired electrons) have long been known to occur due to defects in Si crystals. Perfect Si without defective crystals has no dangling bonds. However, Si nanoparticles have many dangling bonds. High-density dangling bonds cause the sintered Si nanopolycrystalline body to have ferromagnetism. In this study, the density of the unpaired electrons in the sintered Si nanopolycrystalline body was observed using ESR. It has been clarified that the Si nanopowder and the sintered Si nanopolycrystalline body have numerous dangling bonds. Both densities of the dangling bonds were evaluated.
Tryptophan Photoproduct FICZ Upregulates IL1A, IL1B, and IL6 Expression via Oxidative Stress in Keratinocytes
Authors: Tanaka Yuka , Uchi Hiroshi , Hashimoto-Hachiya Akiko , Furue Masutaka
Published: November 2018

Ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation activates the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), generates the reactive oxygen species (ROS), and induces the production of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL1A, IL1B, and IL6. 6‐Formylindolo[3,2‐b]carbazole (FICZ) is a tryptophan‐derived photoproduct that is induced by UVB irradiation and activates the AHR. However, its role in upregulating proinflammatory cytokine expression has never been investigated. Here, we demonstrated that FICZ enhanced ROS generation in human HaCaT keratinocytes in an AHR‐dependent manner. FICZ also upregulated the expression of IL1A and IL1B, as well as the expression of IL6 and the production of its protein product, in an AHR‐ and ROS‐dependent fashion. Here, we demonstrate that the actions of FICZ can substitute for the hazardous effects of UVB exposure, contributing to the further understandings of the mechanisms which UVB harms organisms.
A Compressive Sensing-Based Bistatic MIMO Radar Imaging Method in the Presence of Array Errors
Authors: Liu Zhigang , Li Jun , Chang Junqing , Guo Yifan
Published: November 2018

A robust transmit-receive angle imaging method for bistatic MIMO radar based on compressed sensing is proposed. A new imaging model with array gain and phase error is established. The array gain error and phase error were modeled as a random interference for observation matrix by mathematical derivation. A constraint of observation matrix error is constructed in optimization problem of sparse recovery to reduce the effect of the interference of observation matrix. Then, the iterative algorithm of the optimization problems is derived. The proposed recovery method is more robust than the existed method in small samples, especially in the case of one snapshot. It is applicable in the case of relatively small array gain and phase errors. Simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Combined Oral Contraceptive Effects on Low-Grade Chronic Inflammatory Mediators in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: de Medeiros Sebastião Freitas , Medeiros Matheus Antônio Souto de , Santos Nayara de Souza , Barbosa Bruna Barcelo , Yamamoto Márcia Marly Winck
Published: November 2018

Polycystic ovary syndrome is associated with dyslipidemia, dysglycemia, metabolic syndrome, and low-grade chronic inflammation, which increase the risks for cardiovascular disease. Combined oral contraceptives may affect the mediators of low-grade chronic inflammation with potential additive risk in PCOS patients. This meta-analysis investigates the impact of oral contraceptive on markers of chronic inflammation in PCOS patients. Pubmed, Scopus, and Cochrane database were used to search studies reporting on this matter in the target population. Twenty seven studies were selected, including a total of 838 women. The data were expressed as the standardized mean difference. The random-effects model was used to summarize effect sizes. Heterogeneity was examined using Cochran’s test (Q) and I2 statistics. Most of the preparations increased C-reactive protein (CRP) in PCOS patients (p >0.001). The increase in homocysteine levels was not significant (p >0.05). Follistatin significantly increased with pills containing cyproterone acetate (p= 0.008). Interleukin-6 changes were inconsistent and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 decreased with pills containing desogestrel, norgestimate, and drospirenone. Collectively, the results of this review indicate that oral contraceptives modify most inflammatory markers of PCOS patients. However, the clinical implications are not clear yet and future studies must consider longer follow-up and the inclusion of objective clinical parameters.
Nonmotile Single-Cell Migration as a Random Walk in Nonuniformity: The “Extreme Dumping Limit” for Cell-to-Cell Communications
Authors: Panotopoulos Grigorios P. , Aguayo Sebastian , Haidar Ziyad S.
Published: November 2018

In the present work, we model single-cell movement as a random walk in an external potential observed within the extreme dumping limit, which we define herein as the extreme nonuniform behavior observed for cell responses and cell-to-cell communications. Starting from the Newton–Langevin equation of motion, we solve the corresponding Fokker–Planck equation to compute higher moments of the displacement of the cell, and then we build certain quantities that can be measurable experimentally. We show that, each time, the dynamics depend on the external force applied, leading to predictions distinct from the standard results of a free Brownian particle. Our findings demonstrate that cell migration viewed as a stochastic process is still compatible with biological and experimental observations without the need to rely on more complicated or sophisticated models proposed previously in the literature.
On the Non-Newtonian Fluid Equation with a Source Term and a Damping Term
Authors: Zhan Huashui , Li Yongping
Published: November 2018

A kind of non-Newtonian fluid equation with a damping term and a source term is considered. After giving a result of the existence, if the diffusion coefficient is degenerate on the boundary, the local stability of the weak solutions is established without any boundary condition. If the diffusion coefficient is degenerate on a part of the boundary, by imposing the homogeneous value condition on the other part of the boundary, the local stability of the weak solutions is proved. Moreover, if the equation is with a damping term, other than the finite propagation property, the results of this paper reveal the essential differences between the non-Newtonian fluid equation and the heat conduction equation in a new way.
Smoking, Alcohol Consumption, and Illegal Substance Abuse among Adolescents in Sri Lanka: Results from Sri Lankan Global School-Based Health Survey 2016
Authors: Senanayake Sameera , Gunawardena Shanthi , Kumbukage Mahesh , Wickramasnghe Champika , Gunawardena Nalika , Lokubalasooriya Ayesha , Peiris Renuka
Published: November 2018

Background. Adolescence is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as “the transition period from childhood to adulthood”. Increases in autonomy during this period, willingness to experiment, and peer influence create an environment of taking high-risk decisions influencing adolescent health, such as substance abuse and smoking. The current study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of smoking, alcohol consumption, and illegal substance abuse and their determinants on in-school adolescents using data from the Global School-based Student Health Survey, Sri Lanka in 2016. Methods. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 3,650 students using a self-administered questionnaire in government schools. Weighted prevalence was calculated, and logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the correlates. Results. The prevalence of current alcohol, smoking, smokeless tobacco consumption, and substance abuse, 30 days before the survey, was 3.4% (95% CI 2.6 - 4.3), 3.6% (95% CI 2.5-5.0), 2.3% (95% CI 1.5-3.7), and 2.7% (95% CI - 1.7-4.2%). Male sex and involvement in physical fighting were independently associated with increased risk in all four substance categories assessed. Multivariate analysis using multiple logistic regression revealed that only the male sex and involvement in physical fighting were correlates for four substance categories assessed when confounding effects of other variables were accounted for. Being in the 16-17 age category, parents’ tobacco use and seeing actors consuming alcohol on TV increased the risk of alcohol consumption, smoking, and smokeless tobacco. Having ever attempted suicide was positively associated with increased risk for alcohol consumption, smoking, and illegal substance abuse. Conclusion. Alcohol use, smoking, smokeless tobacco use, and illegal substance abuse by students remain a concern in Sri Lanka and implementing life skills-based interventions at schools is recommended.
Enhancing Collaborative Filtering by User-User Covariance Matrix
Authors: Xiao Yingyuan , Shi Jingjing , Zheng Wenguang , Wang Hongya , Hsu Ching-Hsien
Published: November 2018

The collaborative filtering (CF) approach is one of the most successful personalized recommendation methods so far, which is employed by the majority of personalized recommender systems to predict users’ preferences or interests. The basic idea of CF is that if users had the same interests in the past they will also have similar tastes in the future. In general, the traditional CF may suffer the following problems: (1) The recommendation quality of CF based system is greatly affected by the sparsity of data. (2) The traditional CF is relatively difficult to adapt the situation that users’ preferences always change over time. (3) CF based approaches are used to recommend similar items to a user ignoring the user’s demand for variety. In this paper, to solve the above problems we build a new user-user covariance matrix to replace the traditional CF’s user-user similarity matrix. Compared with the user-user similarity matrix, the user-user covariance matrix introduces the user-user covariance to finely describe the changing trends of users’ interests. Furthermore, we propose an enhancing collaborative filtering method based on the user-user covariance matrix. The experimental results show that the proposed method can significantly improve the diversity of recommendation results and ensure the good recommendation precision.