bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Epstein-Barr Virus Genomes and Expression Profiles in Gastric Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Borozan Ivan , Zapatka Marc , Frappier Lori , Ferretti Vincent
Published: November 2017

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a causative agent of a variety of lymphomas, nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), and ∼9% of gastric carcinomas (GCs). An important question is whether particular EBV variants are more oncogenic than others, but conclusions are currently hampered by the lack of sequenced EBV genomes. Here, we contribute to this question by mining whole-genome sequences of 201 GCs to identify 13 EBV-positive GCs and by assembling 13 new EBV genome sequences, almost doubling the number of available GC-derived EBV genome sequences and providing the first non-Asian EBV genome sequences from GC. Whole-genome sequence comparisons of all EBV isolates sequenced to date (85 from tumors and 57 from healthy individuals) showed that most GC and NPC EBV isolates were closely related although American Caucasian GC samples were more distant, suggesting a geographical component. However, EBV GC isolates were found to contain some consistent changes in protein sequences regardless of geographical origin. In addition, transcriptome data available for eight of the EBV-positive GCs were analyzed to determine which EBV genes are expressed in GC. In addition to the expected latency proteins (EBNA1, LMP1, and LMP2A), specific subsets of lytic genes were consistently expressed that did not reflect a typical lytic or abortive lytic infection, suggesting a novel mechanism of EBV gene regulation in the context of GC. These results are consistent with a model in which a combination of specific latent and lytic EBV proteins promotes tumorigenesis.

IMPORTANCE
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a widespread virus that causes cancer, including gastric carcinoma (GC), in a small subset of individuals. An important question is whether particular EBV variants are more cancer associated than others, but more EBV sequences are required to address this question. Here, we have generated 13 new EBV genome sequences from GC, almost doubling the number of EBV sequences from GC isolates and providing the first EBV sequences from non-Asian GC. We further identify sequence changes in some EBV proteins common to GC isolates. In addition, gene expression analysis of eight of the EBV-positive GCs showed consistent expression of both the expected latency proteins and a subset of lytic proteins that was not consistent with typical lytic or abortive lytic expression. These results suggest that novel mechanisms activate expression of some EBV lytic proteins and that their expression may contribute to oncogenesis.
Evolved Aztreonam Resistance Is Multifactorial and Can Produce Hypervirulence in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Jorth Peter , McLean Kathryn , Ratjen Anina , Secor Patrick R. , Bautista Gilbert E. , Ravishankar Sumedha , Rezayat Amir , Garudathri Jayanthi , Harrison Joe J. , Harwood Rachel A. , Penewit Kelsi , Waalkes Adam , Singh Pradeep K. , Salipante Stephen J.
Published: November 2017

While much attention has been focused on acquired antibiotic resistance genes, chromosomal mutations may be most important in chronic infections where isolated, persistently infecting lineages experience repeated antibiotic exposure. Here, we used experimental evolution and whole-genome sequencing to investigate chromosomally encoded mutations causing aztreonam resistance in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
and characterized the secondary consequences of resistance development. We identified 19 recurrently mutated genes associated with aztreonam resistance. The most frequently observed mutations affected negative transcriptional regulators of the
mexAB-oprM
efflux system and the target of aztreonam,
ftsI
. While individual mutations conferred modest resistance gains, high-level resistance (1,024 µg/ml) was achieved through the accumulation of multiple variants. Despite being largely stable when strains were passaged in the absence of antibiotics, aztreonam resistance was associated with decreased
in vitro
growth rates, indicating an associated fitness cost. In some instances, evolved aztreonam-resistant strains exhibited increased resistance to structurally unrelated antipseudomonal antibiotics. Surprisingly, strains carrying evolved mutations which affected negative regulators of
mexAB-oprM
(
mexR
and
nalD
) demonstrated enhanced virulence in a murine pneumonia infection model. Mutations in these genes, and other genes that we associated with aztreonam resistance, were common in
P. aeruginosa
isolates from chronically infected patients with cystic fibrosis. These findings illuminate mechanisms of
P. aeruginosa
aztreonam resistance and raise the possibility that antibiotic treatment could inadvertently select for hypervirulence phenotypes.

IMPORTANCE
Inhaled aztreonam is a relatively new antibiotic which is being increasingly used to treat cystic fibrosis patients with
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
airway infections. As for all antimicrobial agents, bacteria can evolve resistance that decreases the effectiveness of the drug; however, the mechanisms and consequences of aztreonam resistance are incompletely understood. Here, using experimental evolution, we have cataloged spontaneous mutations conferring aztreonam resistance and have explored their effects. We found that a diverse collection of genes contributes to aztreonam resistance, each with a small but cumulative effect. Surprisingly, we found that selection for aztreonam resistance mutations could confer increased resistance to other antibiotics and promote hypervirulence in a mouse infection model. Our study reveals inherent mechanisms of aztreonam resistance and indicates that aztreonam exposure can have unintended secondary effects.
Is governance, gross domestic product, inequality, population size or country surface area associated with coverage and equity of health interventions? Ecological analyses of cross-sectional surveys from 80 countries
Authors: Wehrmeister Fernando C , da Silva Inácio Crochemore M , Barros Aluisio J D , Victora Cesar G
Published: November 2017

Objective

To assess associations between national characteristics, including governance indicators, with a proxy for universal health coverage in reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health (RMNCH).

Design

Ecological analysis based on data from national standardised cross-sectional surveys.

Setting

Low-income and middle-income countries with a Demographic and Health Survey or a Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey since 2005.

Participants

1 246 710 mothers and 2 129 212 children from 80 national surveys.

Exposures of interest

Gross domestic product (GDP), country surface area, population, Gini index and six governance indicators (control of corruption, political stability and absence of violence, government effectiveness, regulatory quality, rule of law, and voice and accountability).

Main outcomes

Levels and inequality in the composite coverage index (CCI), a weighted average of eight RMNCH interventions. Relative and absolute inequalities were measured through the concentration index (CIX) and slope index of inequality (SII) for CCI, respectively.

Results

The average values of CCI (70.5% (SD=13.3)), CIX (5.3 (SD=5.1)) and mean slope index (19.8 (SD=14.7)) were calculated. In the unadjusted analysis, all governance variables and GDP were positively associated with the CCI and negatively with inequalities. Country surface showed inverse associations with both inequality indices. After adjustment, among the governance indicators, only political stability and absence of violence was directly related to CCI (β=6.3; 95% CI 3.6 to 9.1; p<0.001) and inversely associated with relative (CIX; β=−1.4; 95% CI −2.4 to −0.4; p=0.007) and absolute (SII; β=−5.3; 95% CI –8.9 to −1.7; p=0.005) inequalities. The strongest associations with governance indicators were found in the poorest wealth quintile. Similar patterns were observed for GDP. Country surface area was inversely related to inequalities on CCI.

Conclusions

Levels and equity in RMNCH interventions are positively associated with political stability and absence of violence, and with GDP, and inversely associated with country surface area.
Cohort profile: the China Ageing REespiratory infections Study (CARES), a prospective cohort study in older adults in Eastern China
Authors: Cowling Benjamin J , Xu Cuiling , Tang Fenyang , Zhang Jun , Shen Jinjin , Havers Fiona , Wendladt Rachael , Leung Nancy HL , Greene Carolyn , Iuliano A Danielle , Shifflett Pat , Song Ying , Zhang Ran , Kim Lindsay , Chen Yuyun , Chu Daniel KW , Zhu Huachen , Shu Yuelong , Yu Hongjie , Thompson Mark G
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This study was established to provide direct evidence on the incidence of laboratory-confirmed influenza virus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in older adults in two cities in Jiangsu Province, China, and the potential impact of acute respiratory infections on frailty.

Participants

The cohort was enrolled in Suzhou and Yancheng, two cities in Jiangsu Province in Eastern China. Between November 2015 and March 2016, we enrolled 1532 adults who were 60–89 years of age, and collected blood samples along with baseline data on demographics, general health, chronic diseases, functional status and cognitive function through face-to-face interviews using a standardised questionnaire. Participants are being followed weekly throughout the year to identify acute respiratory illnesses. We schedule home visits to ill participants to collect mid-turbinate nasal and oropharyngeal swabs for laboratory testing and detailed symptom information for the acute illness. Regular follow-up including face-to-face interviews and further blood draws will take place every 6–12 months.

Findings to date

As of 3 September 2016, we had identified 339 qualifying acute respiratory illness events and 1463 (95%) participants remained in the study. Laboratory testing is ongoing.

Future plans

We plan to conduct laboratory testing to estimate the incidence of influenza virus and RSV infections in older adults. We plan to investigate the impact of these infections on frailty and functional status to determine the association of pre-existing immune status with protection against influenza and RSV infection in unvaccinated older adults, and to assess the exposure to avian influenza viruses in this population.
Factors influencing the decisions of senior UK doctors to retire or remain in medicine: national surveys of the UK-trained medical graduates of 1974 and 1977
Authors: Smith Fay , Lachish Shelly , Goldacre Michael J , Lambert Trevor W
Published: October 2017

Objective

To report attitudes to retirement of late-career doctors.

Design

Questionnaires sent in 2014 to all UK medical graduates of 1974 and 1977.

Setting

United Kingdom.

Participants

3695 medical graduates.

Main outcome measures

Factors which influenced doctors’ decisions to retire and factors which encouraged doctors to remain in work.

Results

The response rate was 85% (3695/4369). 55% of respondents overall were still working in medicine (whether they had not retired or had retired and returned; 61% of men, 43% of women). Of the retirees, 67% retired when they had originally planned to, and 28% had changed their retirement plans. Fifty per cent of retired doctors cited ‘increased time for leisure/other interests’ as a reason; 43% cited ‘pressure of work’. Women (21%) were more likely than men (11%) to retire for family reasons. Women (27%) were more likely than men (9%) to retire because of the retirement of their spouse. General practitioners (GPs) were more likely than doctors in other specialties to cite ‘pressure of work’. Anaesthetists and GPs were more likely than doctors in other specialties to cite the ‘possibility of deteriorating skill/competence’. Radiologists, surgeons, obstetricians and gynaecologists, and anaesthetists were most likely to cite ‘not wanting to do out-of-hours work’.

Doctors who were still working were asked what would encourage them to stay in medicine for longer. Factors cited most frequently were ‘reduced impact of work-related bureaucracy’ (cited by 45%) and ‘workload reduction/shorter hours’ (42%). Men (30%) were more motivated than women (20%) by ‘financial incentivisation’. Surgeons were most motivated by ‘reduction of on-call or emergency commitments’.

Conclusions

Retention policy should address ways of optimising the clinical contribution of senior doctors while offering reduced workloads in the areas of bureaucracy and working hours, particularly in respect of emergency commitments.
Contrast-induced acute kidney injury and mortality in ST elevation myocardial infarction treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Silvain Johanne , Nguyen Lee S , Spagnoli Vincent , Kerneis Mathieu , Guedeney Paul , Vignolles Nicolas , Cosker Kristel , Barthelemy Olivier , Le Feuvre Claude , Helft Gérard , Collet Jean-Philippe , Montalescot Gilles
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is a common and potentially severe complication in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). There is no consensus on the best definition of CI-AKI to identify patients at risk of haemodialysis or death. The objective of this study was to assess the association of CI-AKI, using four definitions, on inhospital mortality, mortality or haemodialysis requirement over 1-year follow-up, in patients with STEMI treated with pPCI.

Methods

In this prospective, observational study, all patients with STEMI referred for pPCI were included. We identified independent variables associated with CI-AKI and mortality.

Results

We included 1114 consecutive patients with STEMI treated by pPCI. CI-AKI occurred in 18.3%, 12.2%, 15.6% and 10.5% of patients according to the CIN, Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN), Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss of kidney function, and End-stage kidney disease (RIFLE) Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) and RIFLE Chronic Kidney Disease - Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) definitions, respectively. The RIFLE (CKD-EPI) definition was the most discriminant definition to identify patients at higher risk of inhospital mortality (27.1% vs 4.0%; adjusted OR 2.7 (95% CI 1.4 to 5.1), p=0.003), 1-year mortality (27.4% vs 6.6%; adjusted OR 2.8 (95% CI 1.5 to 5.3), p=0.002) and haemodialysis requirement at 1-year follow-up (15.6% vs 2.7%; adjusted OR 6.7 (95% CI 3.3 to 13.6), p=0.001). Haemodynamic instability, cardiac arrest, preexisting renal failure, elderly age and a high contrast media volume were independently associated with 1-year mortality. Of interest, contrast-media volume was not correlated to increase of creatininaemia (r=0.06) or decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (r=0.05) after percutaneous coronary intervention in our population.

Conclusions

CI-AKI is a frequent and serious complication of STEMI treated by pPCI. The RIFLE definition is the most accurate definition to identify patients with CI-AKI at high risk of mortality or haemodialysis.
Voxel based analysis of recurrence dynamics in intracranial aneurysms after coiling
Authors: Ernst Marielle , Buchholz Anika , Bourcier Romain , Desal Hubert , Le Floch Pierre-Yves , Möhlenbruch Markus , Bendszus Martin , Fiehler Jens
Published: November 2017

Background

Understanding aneurysm growth is critical for the appropriate follow-up of patients after coil embolization and the need for retreatment. The purpose of the study was to stratify the growth dynamics of aneurysm recurrences after coiling by volumetric analysis and to determine predictive factors for aneurysm recurrences.

Methods

Source images of follow-up three-dimensional time of flight MR angiography (ToF-MRA) scans were compared with the first post-interventional ToF-MRA scan and analyzed for residual flow after co-registration using ANALYZE-software. In the event of incomplete occlusion, the residual volume was segmented and calculated. Growth dynamic was determined for each aneurysm after embolization.

Results

We analyzed 326 patients with 345 aneurysms from two centers. Each case had at least two ToF-MRA examinations after endovascular therapy. The mean observation interval was 59 months. Volumetric analysis of 1139 follow-up MRAs revealed that 218/345 aneurysms (63.2%) showed complete occlusion on initial follow-up imaging, and of these 95.0% remained stable. A steady increase in intra-aneurysmal flow was observed in 83/345 (24.1%). Less frequent observations were a steep increase (21/345; 6.1%) and a decrease (27/345; 7.8%). Independent predictors of increasing residual flow were greatest aneurysm diameter, total coil length, and incomplete occlusion.

Conclusions

Volumetric analysis of registered three-dimensional ToF-MRA follow-up datasets allows the detection of different growth patterns with high precision, avoids the low inter-rater reliability, and represents a promising approach for future studies that include analysis of more complex predictors of residual flow. In cases of aneurysm recurrence after coiling, the major pattern seems to be a steady increase in intra-aneurysmal flow over several months.
Regularization-Based Semi-Blind Image Deconvolution Using an Improved Function for PMMW Images Application
Authors: Mansoori M. A. , Mosavi M. R. , Bisjerdi M. H.
Published: November 2017

Image deconvolution is a method for reversing the distortion in an imaging system. It is widely used in removing blur and noise from a degraded image. This is an ill-posed inverse problem, and one should use regularization techniques to solve this problem. Regularization functions play an important role in finding the desired solution. In this paper, a new function in wavelet domain is proposed, which is useful in blind deconvolution. In addition, a simple algorithm is used to obtain the restored image and unknown point spread function. The proposed approach is tested on three standard images and then compared with the previous methods using standard metrics. Real Passive Millimeter Wave (PMMW) images are also used to obtain the sharp deblurred images. Simulation results show that the proposed method can improve the quality of the restored image.
A 3-Dimensional Object Recognition Method Using Relationship of Distances and Angles in Feature Points
Authors: Maehara Seiichi , Ikeshiro Kazuo , Imamura Hiroki
Published: October 2017

In recent years, human support robots have been receiving attention. Especially, object recognition task is important in case that people request the robots to transport and rearrange an object. We consider that there are four necessary properties to recognize in domestic environment as follows. (1) Robustness against occlusion. (2) Fast recognition. (3) Pose estimation with high accuracy. (4) Coping with erroneous correspondences. As conventional object recognition methods using 3-dimensional information, there are model-based recognition methods such as the SHOT and the Spin Image. The SHOT and the Spin Image do not satisfy all four properties for the robots. Therefore, to satisfy the four properties of recognition, we propose a 3-dimensional object recognition method by using relationship of distances and angles in feature points. As per our approach, the proposed method achieves to solve problems of conventional methods by using not only the feature points but also relationship between feature points. To achieve this purpose, firstly, the proposed method uses a curvature as a feature in a local region. Secondly, the proposed method uses points having high curvature as feature points. Finally, the proposed method generates a list by listing relationship of distances and angles between feature points and matches lists.
Optimized Automatic Seeded Region Growing Algorithm with Application to ROI Extraction
Authors: Li Qianwen , Wei Zhihua , Zhao Cairong
Published: October 2017

Region of interest (ROI) is the most important part of an image that expresses the effective content of the image. Extracting regions of interest from images accurately and efficiently can reduce computational complexity and is essential for image analysis and understanding. In order to achieve the automatic extraction of regions of interest and obtain more accurate regions of interest, this paper proposes Optimized Automatic Seeded Region Growing (OASRG) algorithm. The algorithm uses the affinity propagation (AP) clustering algorithm to extract the seeds automatically, and optimizes the traditional region growing algorithm by regrowing strategy to obtain the regions of interest where target objects are contained. Experimental results show that our algorithm can automatically locate seeds and produce results as good as traditional region growing with seeds selected manually. Furthermore, the precision is improved and the extraction effect is better after the optimization with regrowing strategy.
Adaptive Sliding Mode Fault-Tolerant Control for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Wang Ban , Zhang Youmin
Published: November 2017

Sliding mode control (SMC) is known as a robust control method to maintain system performance and keep it insensitive to system uncertainties. To achieve this objective, the knowledge of the uncertainty bound is usually needed, but sometimes it could be a hard task. Hence, the adaptive technology is introduced to be synthesized with SMC. In this paper, a novel adaptive SMC (ASMC) scheme is proposed to accommodate system uncertainties caused by actuator faults. An integral sliding mode controller is used as the baseline controller. When actuator faults occur, there is no need to know the exact bound of the uncertainties in control effectiveness matrix. The post-fault control effectiveness matrix can be estimated by the proposed adaptive control scheme, and the control inputs will be changed accordingly. In such a way, the robustness of the controller to actuator faults is improved. With the help of adaptive change of both continuous and discontinuous control parts, a minimum value of the discontinuous control gain can be guaranteed. In this case, the resulting control effort is reduced accordingly to avoid control chattering effect. Owing to the minimized control effort to accommodate uncertainties compared to the conventional SMC, the proposed ASMC can still maintain the system performance when severer faults occur. The effectiveness of the developed algorithm is demonstrated by the simulation results based on an unmanned quadrotor helicopter under various faulty conditions.
Ron Fagin Speaks Out on His Trajectory as a Database Theoretician
Authors: Winslett Marianne , Braganholo Vanessa
Published: November 2017

Welcome ACM SIGMOD Record's series of interviews with distinguished members of the database community. I'm Marianne Winslett, and today we are in Snowbird, Utah, USA, site of the 2014 SIGMOD and PODS conference. I have here with me Ron Fagin, who has spent many years as a researcher at IBM. He is an IBM Fellow. He is a Fellow of ACM, IEEE, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He was elected to the National Academy of Engineering and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. He has won the IEEE McDowell Award (the highest award of the IEEE Computer Society), the IEEE Technical Achievement Award, and the SIGMOD Edgar F. Codd Innovations Award, and he has won a bunch of Best Paper and Test-of-Time Awards. He was named Docteur Honoris Causa by the University of Paris. Most recently, he won the Gödel Prize in 2014. Ron's Ph.D. is in mathematics, from Berkeley
Algebraic graphs with class (functional pearl)
Authors: Mokhov Andrey
Published: November 2017

The paper presents a minimalistic and elegant approach to working with graphs in Haskell. It is built on a rigorous mathematical foundation --- an algebra of graphs --- that allows us to apply equational reasoning for proving the correctness of graph transformation algorithms. Algebraic graphs let us avoid partial functions typically caused by `malformed graphs' that contain an edge referring to a non-existent vertex. This helps to liberate APIs of existing graph libraries from partial functions.

The algebra of graphs can represent directed, undirected, reflexive and transitive graphs, as well as hypergraphs, by appropriately choosing the set of underlying axioms. The flexibility of the approach is demonstrated by developing a library for constructing and transforming polymorphic graphs.
Back to the future: time travel in FRP
Authors: Perez Ivan
Published: November 2017

Functional Reactive Programming (FRP) allows interactive applications to be modelled in a declarative manner using time-varying values. For practical reasons, however, operational constraints are often imposed, such as having a fixed time domain, time always flowing forward, and limiting the exploration of the past.

In this paper we show how these constraints can be overcome, giving local control over the time domain, the direction of time and the sampling step. We study the behaviour of FRP expressions when time flows backwards, and demonstrate how to synchronize subsystems running asynchronously and at different sampling rates. We have verified the practicality of our approach with two non-trivial games in which time control is central to the gameplay.
Packrats parse in packs
Authors: Blažević Mario , Légaré Jacques
Published: November 2017

We present a novel but remarkably simple formulation of formal language grammars in Haskell as functions mapping a record of pro- duction parsers to itself. Thus formulated grammars are first-class objects, composable and reusable. We also provide a simple parser implementation for them, based on an improved packrat algorithm. In order to make the grammar manipulation code reusable, we introduce a set of type classes mirroring the existing type classes from Haskell base library, but whose methods have rank-2 types.
The linearity Monad
Authors: Paykin Jennifer , Zdancewic Steve
Published: November 2017

We introduce a technique for programming with domain-specific linear languages using the monad that arises from the theory of linear/non-linear logic. In this work we interpret the linear/non-linear model as a simple, effectful linear language embedded inside an existing non-linear host language. We implement a modular framework for defining these linear EDSLs in Haskell, allowing both shallow and deep embeddings. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the framework and the linearity monad, we implement languages for file handles, mutable arrays, session types, and quantum computing.
Ornaments: exploiting parametricity for safer, more automated code refactorization and code reuse (invited talk)
Authors: Rémy Didier
Published: November 2017

Inductive datatypes and parametric polymorphism are two key features introduced in the ML family of languages, which have already been widely exploited for structuring programs: Haskell and ML programs are often more elegant and more correct by construction. Still, we sometimes need code to be refactored or adapted to be reused in a slightly different context. While the type system is considerably helpful in these situations, by automatically locating type-inconsistent program points or incomplete pattern matchings, this process could be made safer and more automated by further exploiting parametricity. We propose a posteriori program abstraction as a principle for such code transformations.

We apply this principle to ornamentation which is a way to describe changes in datatype definitions reorganizing, adding, or dropping some pieces of data so that functions operating on the bare definition can be partially and sometimes totally lifted into functions operating on the ornamented structure.

We view ornamentation as an a posteriori abstraction of the bare code, called a generic lifting, which can then be instantiated into a concrete lifting, meta-reduced, and simplified. Both the source and target code live in core ML while the lifted code lives in a meta-language above ML equipped with a limited form of dependent types needed to capture some invariants of the generic lifting so that the concrete lifting can be simplified back into an ML program. Importantly, the lifted code can be closely related to the bare code, using logical relations thanks to the generic lifting detour.

Different, typical use cases of ornaments will be shown and the approach will be mainly illustrated on examples.
Body Composition in Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis: Correlation with Disease Severity and Duration
Authors: Yadav Dawesh P. , Kedia Saurabh , Madhusudhan Kumble Seetharama , Bopanna Sawan , Goyal Sandeep , Jain Saransh , Vikram Naval K. , Sharma Raju , Makharia Govind K. , Ahuja Vineet
Published: October 2017

Background. Results on body composition in Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) have been heterogeneous and are lacking from Asia. Present study assessed body composition in CD/UC and correlated it with disease severity/duration.Methods. Patients of CD/UC following between Dec 2014 and Dec 2015 who consented for bioimpedance analysis for body fat measurement were included. Lean mass and fat-free mass index (FFMI) were calculated with standard formulae. Visceral fat area (VFA), subcutaneous fat area (SCA), and visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio (VF/SC) were evaluated in CD patients on abdominal CT.Results. Lean mass in CD (n=44, mean age:41.2±15.8years, 73% males) was significantly lower than UC (n=53, mean age:33.2±11.2years, 68% males;44.2±7.8versus48.3±8.4 Kg,p=0.01). In both UC/CD, disease severity was associated with nonsignificant decline in BMI (UC:22.1±4.9versus20.2±3.2versus19.9±3.2 kg/m2,p=0.23; CD:22.1±4.2versus19.9±2.3versus19.7±4.2 kg/m2,p=0.18) and fat mass (UC:10.9±8.9versus8.1±5.9versus5.7±3.6 kg,p=0.14; CD:11.2±7versus7.9±4.4versus7.2±5.9 kg,p=0.16), and disease duration was associated with significant decline in FFMI (p<0.05). In CD, disease severity was associated with nonsignificant decline in SCA and increase in VF/SC.Conclusions. CD patients have lower lean mass than UC. Body fat decreases with increasing disease severity and fat-free mass decreases with increasing disease duration in both UC/CD.
A Survey on Real-Time Communications in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Kim Beom-Su , Park HoSung , Kim Kyong Hoon , Godfrey Daniel , Kim Ki-Il
Published: October 2017

Generally, various traffic requirements in wireless sensor network are mostly dependent on specific application types, that is, event-driven, continuous, and query-driven types. In these applications, real-time delivery is one of the important research challenges. However, due to harsh networking environment around a node, many researchers usually take different approach from conventional networks. In order to discuss and analyze the advantage or disadvantage of these approaches, some comprehensive survey literatures were published; however they are either out of date or compiled for communication protocols on single layer. Based on this deficiency, in this paper, we present the up-to-date research approaches and discuss the important features related to real-time communications in wireless sensor networks. As for grouping, we categorize the approaches into hard, soft, and firm real-time model. Furthermore, in all these categories, research has been focused on MAC and scheduling and routing according to research area or objective in second level. Finally, the article also suggests potential directions for future research in the field.
A Brief Review of Neural Networks Based Learning and Control and Their Applications for Robots
Authors: Jiang Yiming , Yang Chenguang , Na Jing , Li Guang , Li Yanan , Zhong Junpei
Published: October 2017

As an imitation of the biological nervous systems, neural networks (NNs), which have been characterized as powerful learning tools, are employed in a wide range of applications, such as control of complex nonlinear systems, optimization, system identification, and patterns recognition. This article aims to bring a brief review of the state-of-the-art NNs for the complex nonlinear systems by summarizing recent progress of NNs in both theory and practical applications. Specifically, this survey also reviews a number of NN based robot control algorithms, including NN based manipulator control, NN based human-robot interaction, and NN based cognitive control.
Sarcomatoid Renal Cell Carcinoma in an Adolescent with Sickle Cell Anaemia
Authors: Ahmad H. R. , Faruk J. A. , Bugaje M. A. , Solomon A. , Samaila M. O. A. , Akuse R. M.
Published: October 2017

Malignancies have been reported to occur in people with sickle cell disease. Renal medullary carcinoma (RMC), also tagged seventh sickle cell nephropathy, is an aggressive cancer seen almost exclusively in people with sickle cell disease with more than 160 cases reported worldwide, but only few cases were reported in patients with sickle cell anaemia (HBSS) and from Nigeria. Sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma is a renal tumour of any histologic variant containing foci of high-grade malignant spindle cells. We report an adolescent girl with sickle cell anaemia (HBSS) who presented with left renal tumour, histology of which confirmed a diagnosis of sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma (sRCC). Surgical debulking and palliative care with chemotherapy were given, and she demised 10 months after. The rarity of the case and challenges of managing a cancer in the background of a chronic haematologic disorder are highlighted.
Evaluation of 5G Modulation Candidates WCP-COQAM, GFDM-OQAM, and FBMC-OQAM in Low-Band Highly Dispersive Wireless Channels
Authors: Lizeaga Aitor , Rodríguez Pedro M. , Val Iñaki , Mendicute Mikel
Published: November 2017

We analyse some of the candidates for modulations for 5G: FBMC-OQAM, GFDM-OQAM, and WCP-COQAM. Unlike most of the related bibliographies, which are oriented to mobile communications, our research is focused on 5G in cognitive radio based industrial wireless communications. According to the ultrareliability and low-latency requirements of industrial communications, we simulate the aforementioned modulations in low-band transmissions (carrier frequencies below 6 GHz and a bandwidth narrower than 100 MHz) through large indoor spaces and severe multipath channels that emulate industrial halls. Moreover, we give detailed information about WCP-COQAM and how the windowing affects the protection against multipath effect and reduces spectral efficiency compared to GFDM-OQAM. We also compare the aforementioned filtered multicarrier techniques and OFDM in terms of robustness against multipath channels, power spectral density, and spectral efficiency. Based on these results, we aim at providing an approximate idea about the suitability of 5G MCM candidates for industrial wireless communications based on CR.
Subway Tunnel Disease Associations Mining Based on Fault Tree Analysis Algorithm
Authors: Ding Xiaobing , Huang Qiuyu , Zhu Haiyan , Hu Hua , Liu Zhigang
Published: November 2017

Monitoring and control of subway tunnel diseases throughout operation determine whether the operation of the subway is safe or not. In order to ensure operation safety, in‐depth analysis of tunnel disease risks must be conducted. We constructed a fault tree based on tunnel diseases of Shanghai Subway at first. Using the subway tunnel maintenance work data, we calculated the probability of occurrence of elementary events of the fault tree, conducted quantitative calculation and analysis on the tunnel diseases, and found major diseases of the tunnels and their causes in light of the calculation results. Then, indicated by the precise fault tree analysis (FTA) we conducted, common tunnel diseases mainly include large passenger flow, shortage of maintenance personnel, maintenance error, personal carelessness, hot weather, and poor lighting. Analysis was conducted on the probability importance of elementary events of the tunnel diseases as well. In the end, we proposed the tunnel disease association rule mining algorithm based on the support degree. Via the calculation of association among major diseases, we explored the elaborate association mechanism of the diseases. The in‐depth mining on the association mechanism can provide theoretical support and decision support for prevention and comprehensive control of the tunnel diseases and lay a solid foundation of practice guidance for subway operation safety of megacities.
Incremental Explosive Analysis and Its Application to Performance-Based Assessment of Stiffened and Unstiffened Cylindrical Shells Subjected to Underwater Explosion
Authors: Biglarkhani Masoud , Sadeghi Keyvan
Published: October 2017

Incremental explosive analysis (IEA) is addressed as an applicable method for performance-based assessment of stiffened and unstiffened cylindrical shells subjected to underwater explosion (UNDEX) loading. In fact, this method is inspired by the incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) which is a known parametric analysis method in the field of earthquake engineering. This paper aims to introduce the application of IEA approach in UNDEX in order to estimate different limit states and deterministic assessment of cylindrical shells, considering the uncertainty of loading conditions. The local, bay, and general buckling modes are defined as limit states for performance calculation. Different standoff distances and depth parameters combining several loading conditions are considered. The explosive loading intensity is specified and scaled in several levels to force the structure through the entire range of its behavior. The results are plotted in terms of a damage measure (DM) versus selected intensity measure (IM). The statistical treatment of the obtained multi-IEA curves is performed to summarize the results in a predictive mode. Finally, the fragility curves as damage probability indicators of shells in UNDEX loading are extracted. Results show that the IEA is a promising method for performance-based assessment of cylindrical shells subjected to UNDEX loading.
L1(R)-Nonlinear Stability of Nonlocalized Modulated Periodic Reaction-Diffusion Waves
Authors: Jung Soyeun
Published: November 2017

Assuming spectral stability conditions of periodic reaction-diffusion waves u¯(x), we consider L1(R)-nonlinear stability of modulated periodic reaction-diffusion waves, that is, modulational stability, under localized small initial perturbations with nonlocalized initial modulations. Lp(R)-nonlinear stability of such waves has been studied in Johnson et al. (2013) for p≥2 by using Hausdorff-Young inequality. In this note, by using the pointwise estimates obtained in Jung, (2012) and Jung and Zumbrun (2016), we extend Lp(R)-nonlinear stability (p≥2) in Johnson et al. (2013) to L1(R)-nonlinear stability. More precisely, we obtain L1(R)-estimates of modulated perturbations u~(x-ψ(x,t),t)-u¯(x) of u¯ with a phase function ψ(x,t) under small initial perturbations consisting of localized initial perturbations u~(x-h0(x),0)-u¯(x) and nonlocalized initial modulations h0(x)=ψ(x,0).
Double Morphology: Tertiary Syphilis and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome—A Rare Association
Authors: Ngwanya R. M. , Kakande B. , Khumalo N. P.
Published: October 2017

Background. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Treponema pallidum coinfection is relatively common and accounts for about 25% of primary and secondary syphilis. Tertiary syphilis in HIV-uninfected and HIV-infected patients is vanishingly rare. This is most likely due to early treatment of cases of primary and secondary syphilis. There is rapid progression to tertiary syphilis in HIV-infected patients. Case Presentation. A 49-year-old woman diagnosed with HIV Type 1 infection and cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) count of 482 presented with a four-week history of multiple crusted plaques, nodules, and ulcers on her face, arms, and abdomen. Her past history revealed red painful eyes six months prior to this presentation. She had generalized lymphadenopathy, no alopecia, and no palmar-plantar or mucosal lesions. There were no features suggestive of secondary syphilis. Neurological examination was normal. Her rapid plasma reagin test was positive to a titer of 64. She was treated with Penicillin G 20 mu IVI daily for 2 weeks. Conclusion. Penicillin remains the treatment of choice in syphilitic infected HIV negative and HIV-infected individuals. In neurosyphilis, the dose of Penicillin GIVI is 18–24 mu daily for 10–14 days. This case report demonstrates the importance of excluding syphilis in any HIV-infected patient.
Lipid Profile in Tuberculosis Patients with and without Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Gebremicael Gebremedhin , Amare Yemane , Challa Feyissa , Gebreegziabxier Atsbeha , Medhin Girmay , Wolde Mistire , Kassa Desta
Published: November 2017

Background. Understanding whether the preceding low lipid profile leads to active tuberculosis (TB) or active TB leads to low lipid profile is crucial.Methods. Lipid profile concentrations were determined from 159 study participants composed of 93 active TB patients [44 HIV coinfected (HIV+TB+) and 49 HIV negative (HIV−TB+)], 41 tuberculin skin test (TST) positive cases [17 HIV coinfected (HIV+TST+) and 24 HIV negative (HIV−TST+)], and 25 healthy controls (HIV−TST−). Cobas Integra 400 Plus was used to determine lipid profiles concentration level.Results. The concentrations of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in HIV−TB+ patients were significantly lower compared to HIV−TST+ and to HIV−TST− individuals. Similarly, the concentrations of the TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C in HIV+TB+ were significantly lower compared to HIV−TB+ patients. After the 6 months of anti-TB treatment (ATT), the concentration levels of TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C in HIV−TB+ patients were higher compared to the baseline concentration levels, while they were not significantly different compared to that of HIV−TST+ concentration.Conclusion. The low concentration of lipid profiles in TB patients may be a consequence of the disease and significantly increased in TB patients after treatment.
A New Platelet-Aggregation-Inhibiting Factor Isolated fromBothrops moojeniSnake Venom
Authors: Sousa Bruna Barbosa de , Mamede Carla Cristine Neves , Matias Mariana Santos , Pereira Déborah Fernanda da Cunha , Queiroz Mayara Ribeiro de , Dias Edigar Henrique Vaz , Silva Anielle Christine Almeida , Dantas Noelio Oliveira , Costa Júnia de Oliveira , Oliveira Fábio de
Published: November 2017

This work reports the purification and functional characterization of BmooPAi, a platelet-aggregation-inhibiting factor fromBothrops moojenisnake venom. The toxin was purified by a combination of three chromatographic steps (ion-exchange on DEAE-Sephacel, molecular exclusion on Sephadex G-75, and affinity chromatography on HiTrap™ Heparin HP). BmooPAi was found to be a single-chain protein with an apparent molecular mass of 32 kDa on 14% SDS-PAGE, under reducing conditions. Sequencing of BmooPAi by Edman degradation revealed the amino acid sequence LGPDIVPPNELLEVM. The toxin was devoid of proteolytic, haemorrhagic, defibrinating, or coagulant activities and induced no significant oedema or hyperalgesia. BmooPAi showed a rather specific inhibitory effect on ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation in human platelet-rich plasma, whereas it had little or no effect on platelet aggregation induced by collagen and adenosine diphosphate. The results presented in this work suggest that BmooPAi is a toxin comprised of disintegrin-like and cysteine-rich domains, originating from autolysis/proteolysis of PIII SVMPs fromB. moojenisnake venom. This toxin may be of medical interest because it is a platelet aggregation inhibitor, which could potentially be developed as a novel therapeutic agent to prevent and/or treat patients with thrombotic disorders.
Stochastic Dosimetry for the Assessment of Children Exposure to Uniform 50 Hz Magnetic Field with Uncertain Orientation
Authors: Chiaramello E. , Fiocchi S. , Ravazzani P. , Parazzini M.
Published: October 2017

This study focused on the evaluation of the exposure of children aging from five to fourteen years to 50 Hz homogenous magnetic field uncertain orientation using stochastic dosimetry. Surrogate models allowed assessing how the variation of the orientation of the magnetic field influenced the induced electric field in each tissue of the central nervous system (CNS) and in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) of children. Results showed that the electric field induced in CNS and PNS tissues of children were within the ICNIRP basic restrictions for general public and that no significant difference was found in the level of exposure of children of different ages when considering 10000 possible orientations of the magnetic field. A “mean stochastic model,” useful to estimate the level of exposure in each tissue of a representative child in the range of age from five to fourteen years, was developed. In conclusion, this study was useful to deepen knowledge about the ELF-MF exposure, including the evaluation of variable and uncertain conditions, thus representing a step towards a more realistic characterization of the exposure to EMF.
Does the Fragrance of Essential Oils Alleviate the Fatigue Induced by Exercise? A Biochemical Indicator Test in Rats
Authors: Li Zhiyue , Wu Fengzhi , Shao Haozhen , Zhang Yu , Fan Angran , Li Feng
Published: October 2017

Objective. To study the effect of the essential oils of Citrus sinensis L., Mentha piperita L., Syzygium aromaticum L., and Rosmarinus officinalis L. on physical exhaustion in rats. Methods. Forty‐eight male Wistar rats were randomly divided into a control group, a fatigue group, an essential oil mixture (EOM) group, and a peppermint essential oil (PEO) group. Loaded swimming to exhaustion was used as the rat fatigue model. Two groups were nebulized with EOM and PEO after swimming, and the others were nebulized with distilled water. After continuous inhalation for 3 days, the swimming time, blood glucose, blood lactic acid (BLA), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐PX), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in blood were determined. Results. While an increased time to exhaustion and SOD activity were apparent in both the EOM and PEO groups, the BLA and MDA were lower in both groups, in comparison with the fatigue group, and the changes in the EOM group were more dramatic. Additionally, the EOM group also showed marked changes of the rise of blood glucose and the decrease of BUN and GSH‐PX. Conclusion. The results suggested that the inhalation of an essential oil mixture could powerfully relieve exercise‐induced fatigue.
Effective Administration of Rituximab in Anti-MDA5 Antibody–Positive Dermatomyositis with Rapidly Progressive Interstitial Lung Disease and Refractory Cutaneous Involvement: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ogawa Yuka , Kishida Dai , Shimojima Yasuhiro , Hayashi Koichi , Sekijima Yoshiki
Published: October 2017

We describe the case of a 48-year-old man with dermatomyositis (DM) who demonstrated rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RP-ILD) and refractory cutaneous involvement together with high levels of anti-melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 antibody (anti-MDA5-Ab). Even after combination immunosuppressive therapy including a corticosteroid, cyclosporine A, and intravenous cyclophosphamide, his respiratory insufficiency and cutaneous involvement progressively worsened. However, the administration of rituximab (RTX) resulted in clinical remission as well as a visible reduction in anti-MDA5-Ab levels, suggesting that RTX could be a useful remedy in cases refractory to conventional immunosuppressive agents, especially those of RP-ILD related to anti-MDA5-Ab–positive DM.