bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carotenoids in the eyespot apparatus are required for triggering phototaxis in Euglena gracilis
Authors: Kato Shota , Ozasa Kazunari , Maeda Mizuo , Tanno Yuri , Tamaki Shun , Higuchi‐Takeuchi Mieko , Numata Keiji , Kodama Yutaka , Sato Mayuko , Toyooka Kiminori , Shinomura Tomoko
Published: October 2019

Carotenoids are the most universal and most widespread pigments in nature. They have played pivotal roles in the evolution of photosensing mechanisms in microbes and of vision in animals. Several groups of phytoflagellates developed a photoreceptive organelle called the eyespot apparatus (EA) consisting of two separable components: the eyespot, a cluster of carotenoid‐rich globules that acts as a reflector device, and actual photoreceptors for photobehaviors. Unlike other algal eyespots, the eyespot of Euglenophyta lacks reflective properties and is generally considered to act as a shading device for the photoreceptor (paraflagellar body, PFB) for major photomovements. However, the function of the eyespot of Euglenophyta has not yet been fully proven. Here, we report that the blocking carotenoid biosynthesis in Euglena gracilis by suppressing the phytoene synthase gene (crtB) caused a defect in eyespot function resulting in a loss of phototaxis. Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy suggested that EgcrtB‐suppressed cells formed eyespot globules but had a defect in the accumulation of carotenoids in those packets. Motion analysis revealed the loss of phototaxis in EgcrtB‐suppressed cells: a defect in the initiation of turning movements immediately after a change in light direction, rather than a defect in the termination of cell turning at the appropriate position due to a loss of the shading effect on the PFB. This study revealed that carotenoids are essential for light perception by the EA for the initiation of phototactic movement by E. gracilis, suggesting one possible photosensory role of carotenoids in the EA for the phototaxis.
Natural variation in the expression and catalytic activity of a naringenin 7‐O‐methyltransferase influences antifungal defenses in diverse rice cultivars
Authors: Murata Koichi , Kitano Takashige , Yoshimoto Riko , Takata Ryo , Ube Naoki , Ueno Kotomi , Ueno Makoto , Yabuta Yukinori , Teraishi Masayoshi , Holland Cynthia K. , Jander Georg , Okumoto Yutaka , Mori Naoki , Ishihara Atsushi
Published: October 2019

Phytoalexins play a pivotal role in plant–pathogen interactions. Whereas leaves of rice (Oryza sativa) cultivar Nipponbare predominantly accumulated the phytoalexin sakuranetin after jasmonic acid induction, only very low amounts accumulated in the Kasalath cultivar. Sakuranetin is synthesized from naringenin by naringenin 7‐O‐methyltransferase (NOMT). Analysis of chromosome segment substitution lines and backcrossed inbred lines suggested that NOMT is the underlying cause of differential phytoalexin accumulation between Nipponbare and Kasalath. Indeed, both NOMT expression and NOMT enzymatic activity are lower in Kasalath than in Nipponbare. We identified a proline to threonine substitution in Kasalath relative to Nipponbare NOMT as the main cause of the lower enzymatic activity. Expanding this analysis to rice cultivars with varying amounts of sakuranetin collected from around the world showed that NOMT induction is correlated with sakuranetin accumulation. In bioassays with Pyricularia oryzae, Gibberella fujikuroi, Bipolaris oryzae, Burkholderia glumae, Xanthomonas oryzae, Erwinia chrysanthemi, Pseudomonas syringae, and Acidovorax avenae, naringenin was more effective against bacterial pathogens and sakuranetin was more effective against fungal pathogens. Therefore, the relative amounts of naringenin and sakuranetin may provide protection against specific pathogen profiles in different rice‐growing environments. In a dendrogram of NOMT genes, those from low‐sakuranetin‐accumulating cultivars formed at least two clusters, only one of which involves the proline to threonine mutation, suggesting that the low sakuranetin chemotype was acquired more than once in cultivated rice. Strains of the wild rice species Oryza rufipogon also exhibited differential sakuranetin accumulation, indicating that this metabolic diversity predates rice domestication.
Reform and opening up in the new era: China trade policy review
Authors: Luo Changyuan , Zhi Yan
Published: October 2019

This paper reviews the major changes in China's trade policies in the last few years. During this period, the adjustment of trade policies has developed in the following ways: first, the establishment of free trade zones, which emphasises the importance of advanced systems rather than preferential policies; second, putting forward the “Belt & Road” Initiative, which indicates China's new stage of development from “bringing in” to “going out”; third, holding import expos, which marks an era when China's foreign trade development has shifted from focusing on exports only to focusing on both exports and imports; fourth, reducing entry barriers of foreign capital, which demonstrates that the policy framework for FDI has gradually changed from a positive list to a negative list; fifth, promoting trade negotiations, which reflects that China has actively participated in bilateral, regional and multilateral trade talks; and finally, building up new experimental fields of reform and opening up, which shows evidence that a new generation of special economic zones is emerging.
Nod‐like receptors are critical for gut–brain axis signalling in mice
Authors: Pusceddu Matteo M. , Barboza Mariana , Keogh Ciara E. , Schneider Melinda , Stokes Patricia , Sladek Jessica A. , Kim Hyun Jung D. , Torres‐Fuentes Cristina , Goldfild Lily R. , Gillis Shane E. , Brust‐Mascher Ingrid , Rabasa Gonzalo , Wong Kyle A. , Lebrilla Carlito , Byndloss Mariana X. , Maisonneuve Charles , Bäumler Andreas J. , Philpott Dana J. , Ferrero Richard L. , Barrett Kim E. , Reardon Colin , Gareau Mélanie G.
Published: October 2019

Key points

Nucleotide binding oligomerization domain (Nod)‐like receptors regulate cognition, anxiety and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis activation.

Nod‐like receptors regulate central and peripheral serotonergic biology.

Nod‐like receptors are important for maintenance of gastrointestinal physiology.

Intestinal epithelial cell expression of Nod1 receptors regulate behaviour.

Gut–brain axis signalling is critical for maintaining health and homeostasis. Stressful life events can impact gut–brain signalling, leading to altered mood, cognition and intestinal dysfunction. In the present study, we identified nucleotide binding oligomerization domain (Nod)‐like receptors (NLR), Nod1 and Nod2, as novel regulators for gut–brain signalling. NLR are innate immune pattern recognition receptors expressed in the gut and brain, and are important in the regulation of gastrointestinal physiology. We found that mice deficient in both Nod1 and Nod2 (NodDKO) demonstrate signs of stress‐induced anxiety, cognitive impairment and depression in the context of a hyperactive hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. These deficits were coupled with impairments in the serotonergic pathway in the brain, decreased hippocampal cell proliferation and immature neurons, as well as reduced neural activation. In addition, NodDKO mice had increased gastrointestinal permeability and altered serotonin signalling in the gut following exposure to acute stress. Administration of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, fluoxetine, abrogated behavioural impairments and restored serotonin signalling. We also identified that intestinal epithelial cell‐specific deletion of Nod1 (VilCre+Nod1f/f), but not Nod2, increased susceptibility to stress‐induced anxiety‐like behaviour and cognitive impairment following exposure to stress. Together, these data suggest that intestinal epithelial NLR are novel modulators of gut–brain communication and may serve as potential novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of gut–brain disorders.
Congruences for Apéry numbers βn =∑k=0nn k2n+k k
Authors: Cao Hui-Qin , Matiyasevich Yuri , Sun Zhi-Wei
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we establish some congruences involving the Apéry numbers [Formula: see text]. For example, we show that [Formula: see text] for any positive integer [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] for any prime [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the [Formula: see text]th Bernoulli number. We also present certain relations between congruence properties of the two kinds of Aṕery numbers, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
A High-performance Homogeneous Droplet Routing Technique for MEDA-based Biochips
Authors: Howladar Pampa , Roy Pranab , Rahaman Hafizur
Published: October 2019

Recent advancement of microelectrode-dot-array (MEDA)-based architecture for digital microfluidic biochips has enabled a major enhancement in microfluidic operations for traditional lab-on-chip devices. One critical issue for MEDA-based biochips is the transportation of droplets. MEDA allows dynamic routing for droplets of different size. In this article, we propose a high-performance droplet routing technique for MEDA-based digital microfluidic biochips. First, we propose the basic concept of droplet movement strategy in MEDA-based design together with a definition of strictly shielded zones within the layout in MEDA architecture. Next, we propose transportation schemes of droplets for MEDA architecture under different blockage or crossover conditions and estimate route distances for each net in offline. Finally, a priority-based routing strategy combining various transportation schemes stated earlier has been proposed. Concurrent movement of each droplet is scheduled in a time-multiplexed manner. This poses critical challenges for parallel routing of individual droplets with optimal sharing of cells formulating a routing problem with higher complexity. The final compaction solution satisfies the timing constraint and improves fault tolerance. Simulations are carried out on standard benchmark circuits, namely, Benchmark suite I and Benchmark suite III. Experimental results show satisfactory improvements and prove a high degree of robustness for our proposed algorithm.
Language Support for Navigating Architecture Design in Closed Form
Authors: Cui Weilong , Tzimpragos Georgios , Tao Yu , Mcmahan Joseph , Dangwal Deeksha , Tsiskaridze Nestan , Michelogiannakis George , Vasudevan Dilip P. , Sherwood Timothy
Published: October 2019

As computer architecture continues to expand beyond software-agnostic microarchitecture to specialized and heterogeneous logic or even radically different emerging computing models (e.g., quantum cores, DNA storage units), detailed cycle-level simulation is no longer presupposed. Exploring designs under such complex interacting relationships (e.g., performance, energy, thermal, frequency) calls for a more integrative but higher-level approach. We propose Charm, a modeling language supporting closed-form high-level architecture modeling. Charm enables mathematical representations of mutually dependent architectural relationships to be specified, composed, checked, evaluated, reused, and shared. The language is interpreted through a combination of automatic symbolic evaluation, scalable graph transformation, and efficient compiler techniques, generating executable DAGs and optimized analysis procedures. Charm also exploits the advancements in satisfiability modulo theory solvers to automatically search the design space to help architects explore multiple design knobs simultaneously (e.g., different CNN tiling configurations). Through two case studies, we demonstrate that Charm allows one to define high-level architecture models in a clean and concise format, maximize reusability and shareability, capture unreasonable assumptions, and significantly ease design space exploration at a high level.
Language Variation and Social Networks
Authors: Sharma Devyani , Dodsworth Robin
Published: October 2019

The close relationship between language variation and the nature of social ties among people has been the focus of long-standing commentary in linguistics. A central puzzle in this relationship is the seeming contradiction between two bodies of evidence: automatic, mechanistic diffusion of linguistic forms through social networks and ideologically mediated choice in uptake of forms. Nearly a century of research has revealed that certain types of network structure facilitate the diffusion of linguistic innovation, but these network structures are always anchored in temporally specific and ideologically mediated cultural norms—for instance, norms of gender, class, and ethnicity. Furthermore, not all linguistic variables diffuse in the same way through these structures; social indexicality has a mediating effect. We review prevailing methodologies, theories, and conclusions of this body of work and look ahead to emerging technological advances and more integrated theoretical approaches.
Research Progress of the Functional Role of ACK1 in Breast Cancer
Authors: Liu Xia , Wang Xuan , Li Lifang , Han Baolin
Published: October 2019

ACK1 is a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase with a unique structure, which is tightly related to the biological behavior of tumors. Previous studies have demonstrated that ACK1 was involved with multiple signaling pathways of tumor progression. Its crucial role in tumor cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis was tightly related to the prognosis and clinicopathology of cancer. ACK1 has a unique way of regulating cellular pathways, different from other nonreceptor tyrosine kinases. As an oncogenic kinase, recent studies have shown that ACK1 plays a critical regulatory role in the initiation and progression of tumors. In this review, we will be summarizing the structural characteristics, activation, and regulation of ACK1 in breast cancer, aiming to deeply understand the functional and mechanistic role of ACK1 and provide novel therapeutic strategies for breast cancer treatment.
The Cancer Microbiota: EMT and Inflammation as Shared Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Plasticity and Progression
Authors: Vergara Daniele , Simeone Pasquale , Damato Marina , Maffia Michele , Lanuti Paola , Trerotola Marco
Published: October 2019

With the advent of novel molecular platforms for high-throughput/next-generation sequencing, the communities of commensal and pathogenic microorganisms that inhabit the human body have been defined in depth. In the last decade, the role of microbiota-host interactions in driving human cancer plasticity and malignant progression has been well documented. Germ-free preclinical models provided an invaluable tool to demonstrate that the human microbiota can confer susceptibility to various types of cancer and can also modulate the host response to therapeutic treatments. Of interest, besides the detrimental effects of dysbiosis on cancer etiopathogenesis, specific microorganisms have been shown to exert protective activities against cancer growth. This has strong clinical implications, as restoration of the physiologic microbiota is being rapidly implemented as a novel anticancer therapeutic strategy. Here, we reviewed past and recent literature depicting the role of microbiota-host interactions in modulating key molecular mechanisms that drive human cancer plasticity and lead to malignant progression. We analyzed microbiota-host interactions occurring in the gut as well as in other anatomic sites, such as oral and nasal cavities, lungs, breast, esophagus, stomach, reproductive tract, and skin. We revealed a common ground of biological alterations and pathways modulated by a dysbiotic microbiota and potentially involved in the control of cancer progression. The molecular mechanisms most frequently affected by the pathogenic microorganisms to induce malignant progression involve epithelial-mesenchymal transition- (EMT-) dependent barrier alterations and tumor-promoting inflammation. This evidence may pave the way to better stratify high-risk cancer patients based on unique microenvironmental/microbial signatures and to develop novel, personalized, biological therapies.
Size Projection Algorithm: Optimal Thresholding Value Selection for Image Segmentation of Electrical Impedance Tomography
Authors: Li Kun , Yang Na , Wang Jian , Han Yan , Nie Peng-Fei , Zhang Min
Published: October 2019

Thresholding is an efficient step to extract quantitative information since the potential artefacts are often introduced by the point‐spread effect of tomographic imaging. The thresholding value was previously selected only relying on engineering experience or histogram of tomographic image, which often presents a great challenge to determine an accurate thresholding value for various applications. As the tomographic image features often do not provide sufficient information to choose the best thresholding value, the information implicit in the measured boundary data is introduced into the thresholding process in this paper. A projection error, the relative difference between the computed boundary data of current segmentation and the measured boundary data, is proposed as a quantitative measure of such image segmentation quality. Then, a new multistep image segmentation process, called size projection algorithm (SPA), is proposed to automatically determine an optimal thresholding value by minimising the projection error. Results of simulation and experiment demonstrate the improved performance of the SPA‐based tomographic image segmentation. An application of size projection algorithm for gas‐water two‐phase flow visualisation is also reported in this paper.
Expression of Dual-Specificity Phosphatase 9 in Placenta and Its Relationship with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Wei Qiang , Pu Xiaomin , Zhang Li , Xu Yi , Duan Meifan , Wang Yuemei
Published: October 2019

Introduction. The aim of the present study was to examine placental levels of DUSP9 mRNA and protein and to investigate the potential role of DUSP9 in the development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods. Placental tissues from pregnant women with GDM (n=17) and normal healthy pregnant women (n=16) were collected at delivery. The expression of DUSP9 mRNA in placental tissue was analyzed by real-time PCR, while the expression of DUPS9 protein was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and western blot. Differences in the expression levels of DUSP9 mRNA and protein between the two groups were assessed, as well as potential correlations between DUSP9 mRNA expression levels and relevant clinical indicators. Results. Blood glucose levels were significantly higher in the GDM group than in the control group, based on an oral glucose tolerance test. DUSP9 protein was expressed in the placental cytotrophoblasts in both groups, and placental levels of DUSP9 protein and mRNA were significantly higher in women with GDM. Placental DUSP9 mRNA levels in all 33 women correlated moderately with delivery gestational week (R=0.465, P=0.006), fasting plasma glucose (R=0.350, P=0.046), 1-hour postload plasma glucose (R=0.363, P = 0.038), and 2-hour postload plasma glucose (R=0.366, P=0.036), but not with maternal age, preconception body mass index, prenatal body mass index, or neonatal birth weight. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that delivery gestational week was an influence factor of DUSP9 mRNA levels (β1=0.026, P<0.05). Conclusions. DUSP9 upregulation in the placenta of GDM pregnant women may promote insulin resistance, which may correlate with the occurrence of GDM. But there is still possibility that DUSP9 upregulation was the results of insulin resistance and/or hyperglycemia. Further research is needed to explore the role of DUSP9 in GDM.
Prevalence of Some Genetic Risk Factors for Nicotine Dependence in Ukraine
Authors: Bashynska Vitalina , Koliada Alexander , Murlanova Kateryna , Zahorodnia Oksana , Borysovych Yuliia , Moseiko Vladyslav , Lushchak Oleh , Vaiserman Alexander
Published: October 2019

Tobacco smoking is known to be a strong risk factor for developing many diseases. The development and severity of smoking dependence results from interaction of environmental and lifestyle factors, psycho-emotional predispositions, and also from genetic susceptibility. In present study, we investigated polymorphic variants in genes contributed to nicotine dependence, as well as to increased impulsivity, known to be an important risk factor for substance use disorders, in Ukraine population. The genotype frequencies at CYP2A6, DNMT3B, DRD2, HTR2A, COMT, BDNF, GABRA2, CHRNA5, and DAT1 polymorphisms were determined in 171 Ukraine residents, and these data were compared with data for several other European populations and main ethnic groups. It has been found that genotype frequencies for all studied loci are in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in the Ukrainian population and correspond to the respective frequencies in European populations. These findings suggest a similar impact of these loci on nicotine dependence in Ukraine. Further studies with larger sample sizes are, however, needed to draw firm conclusions about the effect size of these polymorphisms.
An Unusual Cause of Dyspnea and Thoracic Pressure
Authors: Chakkalakal Claire , Jorbenadze Rezo , Gawaz Meinrad
Published: October 2019

There is a high prevalence of hepatic cysts in the general population. Simple cysts are most of the times asymptomatic and are usually detected incidentally on ultrasonography, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging. Symptoms may range from abdominal discomfort and pain, early satiety, dyspepsia, nausea, and vomiting to jaundice and portal hypertension due to obstruction of adjacent structures. Complications include spontaneous hemorrhage, infection, thrombosis, and atrophy of surrounding hepatic tissue. We present a unique case of a middle-aged patient with acute onset of dyspnea and thoracic pressure due to compression of the right ventricle by a large hepatic cyst.
Phenolic Analysis for Classification of Mulberry (Morus spp.) Leaves according to Cultivar and Leaf Age
Authors: Pothinuch Pitchaya , Tongchitpakdee Sasitorn
Published: October 2019

Phenolic compounds in mulberry leaves harvested from three cultivars (Buriram 60, BR 60; Sakonnakhon, SK; and Khunphai, KH) at different leaf ages (tips, young, and old leaves) were identified and quantified using HPLC-DAD and HPLC-ESI/MS. A total of 13 phenolic compounds, which were mainly as caffeoylquinic acids and flavonol glycosides, were detectable. Predominant phenolic compounds were 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (3.5–13.1 mg/g dry weight), 4-O-caffeoylquinic acid (1.3–2.4 mg/g dry weight), and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (1.0–4.4 mg/g dry weight). Qualitative and quantitative differences in phenolic compounds in mulberry leaves were investigated among cultivars and leaf ages. Principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis were used for classification of the mulberry leaves. Based on the similarity of phenolic compounds, mulberry leaves were clustered into three groups: (1) tips of leaves from all cultivars; (2) young and old leaves of mulberry cv. BR 60; (3) young and old leaves of mulberry cv. SK and KH. Therefore, according to phenolic compounds in mulberry leaves, tips of leaves from all cultivars should be intended for production of functional healthy foods.
A Novel Splice-Site Variation in COL5A1 Causes Keratoconus in an Indian Family
Authors: Lin Qinghong , Zheng Lin , Shen Zhengwei , Jie Liming
Published: October 2019

Objective. This study aims to clarify the association between keratoconus (KC) and potential pathogenic genetic variants in a three-generation South Indian family. Methods. In the present study, a three-generation KC family, which comprised 10 affected patients and nine unaffected individuals, was recruited. The family history and necessary ophthalmological exams, such as visual acuity and slit-lamp, were performed for all participants. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leukocytes, and whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed using the genomic DNA of the proband (III:4) and two other family members (III:2, III:3). The acceptor-splice-site mutation was validated and verified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Sanger sequencing. Gene functions and pathways associated with the identified mutations were subjected to in silico analysis. Results. A novel COL5A1 acceptor-splice-site mutation IVS50-4C > G was found in the 10 affected individuals in the three-generation KC family, but this was not found in any of the unaffected family members or unrelated healthy individuals. Gene functional analysis using the SpliceMan and ExonScan software predicted that the splice-site mutation was potentially associated with KC pathogenesis. This mutation might affect the assembly of the collagen triple helix. Conclusion. The present study confirmed the association between the COL5A1 gene and KC and identified a novel COL5A1 acceptor-splice-site mutation (IVS50-4C > G) in intron 50, which may affect the splicing of the adjacent exon 50.
Self-Potential Studies in Volcanic Environments: A Cheap and Efficient Method for Multiscale Fluid-Flow Investigations
Authors: Grobbe N. , Barde-Cabusson S.
Published: October 2019

We demonstrate the value of using the self-potential method to study volcanic environments, and particularly fluid flow in those environments. We showcase the fact that self-potential measurements are a highly efficient way to map large areas of volcanic systems under challenging terrain conditions, where other geophysical techniques may be challenging or expensive to deploy. Using case studies of a variety of volcano types, including tuff cones, shield volcanoes, stratovolcanoes, and monogenetic fields, we emphasize the fact that self-potential signals enable us to study fluid flow in volcanic settings on multiple spatial and temporal scales. We categorize the examples into the following three multiscale fluid-flow processes: (1) deep hydrothermal systems, (2) shallow hydrothermal systems, and (3) groundwater. These examples highlight the different hydrological, hydrothermal, and structural inferences that can be made from self-potential signals, such as insight into shallow and deep hydrothermal systems, cooling behavior of lava flows, different hydrogeological domains, upwelling, infiltration, and lateral groundwater and hydrothermal fluid flow paths and velocities, elevation of the groundwater level, crater limits, regional faults, rift zones, incipient collapse limits, structural domains, and buried calderas. The case studies presented in this paper clearly demonstrate that the measured SP signals are a result of the coplay between microscale processes (e.g., electrokinetic, thermoelectric) and macroscale structural and environmental features. We discuss potential challenges and their causes when trying to uniquely interpret self-potential signals. Through integration with different geophysical and geochemical data types such as subsurface electrical resistivity distributions obtained from, e.g., electrical resistivity tomography or magnetotellurics, soil CO2 flux, and soil temperature, it is demonstrated that the hydrogeological interpretations obtained from SP measurements can be better constrained and/or validated.
A Similar Distribution Discriminant Analysis with Orthogonal and Nearly Statistically Uncorrelated Characteristics
Authors: Guo Zhibo , Zhang Ying
Published: October 2019

It is very difficult to process and analyze high‐dimensional data directly. Therefore, it is necessary to learn a potential subspace of high‐dimensional data through excellent dimensionality reduction algorithms to preserve the intrinsic structure of high‐dimensional data and abandon the less useful information. Principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) are two popular dimensionality reduction methods for high‐dimensional sensor data preprocessing. LDA contains two basic methods, namely, classic linear discriminant analysis and FS linear discriminant analysis. In this paper, a new method, called similar distribution discriminant analysis (SDDA), is proposed based on the similarity of samples’ distribution. Furthermore, the method of solving the optimal discriminant vector is given. These discriminant vectors are orthogonal and nearly statistically uncorrelated. The disadvantages of PCA and LDA are overcome, and the extracted features are more effective by using SDDA. The recognition performance of SDDA exceeds PCA and LDA largely. Some experiments on the Yale face database, FERET face database, and UCI multiple features dataset demonstrate that the proposed method is effective. The results reveal that SDDA obtains better performance than comparison dimensionality reduction methods.
Chemical Migration and Emulsification of Surfactant-Polymer Flooding
Authors: Li Jierui , Liu Weidong , Liao Guangzhi , Sun Linghui , Cong Sunan , Jia Ruixuan
Published: October 2019

With a long sand-packed core with multiple sample points, a laboratory surfactant-polymer flooding experiment was performed to study the emulsification mechanism, chemical migration mechanism, and the chromatographic separation of surfactant-polymer flooding system. After water flooding, the surfactant-polymer flooding with an emulsified system enhances oil recovery by 17.88%. The water cut of produced fluid began to decrease at the injection of 0.4 pore volume (PV) surfactant-polymer slug and got the minimum at 1.2 PV. During the surfactant-polymer flooding process, the loss of polymer is smaller than that of surfactant, the dimensionless breakthrough time of polymer is 1.092 while that of surfactant is 1.308, and the dimensionless equal concentration distance of the chemical is 0.65. During surfactant-polymer flooding, the concentration of surfactant controls the formation of the emulsion. From 50 cm to 600 cm, as the migration distance increases, the concentration of surfactant decreases, and the emulsification strength and duration decrease gradually. With the formation of emulsion, the viscosity of the emulsion is relatively stable, which is beneficial to enhanced oil recovery. With the shear of reservoirs and migration of surfactant-polymer slug, the emulsion is formed to improve the swept volume and sweep efficiency and enhance oil recovery.
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleed due to Duodenal Metastases of Lung Adenocarcinoma: Report of Two Cases and Review of Literature
Authors: Kosasih Sumitro , Muhammad Nawawi Khairul Najmi , Wong Zhiqin , Chia Hsin Deborah Chew , Ban Andrea Yu-Lin , Raja Ali Raja Affendi
Published: October 2019

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding as a result of gastrointestinal metastases from lung cancer is extremely rare. We report two cases of patients with duodenal metastases from lung adenocarcinoma presented with recurrent melena. Histopathological examination and immunohistochemical staining of the duodenal biopsies supported the diagnosis of metastatic lung adenocarcinoma.
Airport Entry and Exit Screening during the Ebola Virus Disease Outbreak in Sierra Leone, 2014 to 2016
Authors: Wickramage Kolitha
Published: October 2019

We present entry and exit screening outcomes on all persons passing through Freetown International Airport (FNA) in Sierra Leone during the period 1st September 2014 to 4th February 2016. A total of 166,242 persons underwent screening for Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) at FNA. Five persons were denied air travel from Sierra Leone after secondary screening. Laboratory testing revealed none were positive for EVD. No cases were identified through entry screening route. The public health value of airport screening for EVD is discussed.
Biological Properties and Bioactive Components ofMentha spicataL. Essential Oil: Focus on Potential Benefits in the Treatment of Obesity, Alzheimer’s Disease, Dermatophytosis, and Drug-Resistant Infections
Authors: Ali-Shtayeh Mohammed S. , Jamous Rana M. , Abu-Zaitoun Salam Y. , Khasati Ahmad I. , Kalbouneh Samer R.
Published: October 2019

In the present study, the medicinal aromatic plantMentha spicatahas been investigated as a source of essential oil (EO) and pharmaceuticals. The quantity and composition of EO fromM. spicatacultivated in Palestine were analyzed seasonally over a three-year period. A significantly higher EO content was produced in summer and fall months (2.54–2.79%). Chemical analysis of EO revealed 31 compounds with oxygenated monoterpenes (90%) as the most abundant components followed by sesquiterpene and monoterpene hydrocarbons (6 and 3%, respectively).M spicatacan be characterized as a carvone chemotype (65%). EO and carvone have shown strong inhibitory activities against the principal enzymes associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and overweight diseases (cholinesterase and porcine pancreatic lipase) and also shown strong antidermatophytic activity againstMicrosporum canis,Trichophyton rubrum,T. mentagrophytes, andEpidermophyton floccosum. The pancreatic lipase inhibition and the synergism showed the potential activity ofM. spicataEO and carvone and that their combinations with standard drugs can be useful for the treatment of obesity and overweight. The results also demonstrated that, in addition to their significant inhibitory activity against biofilm formation of methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA),M. spicataEO and carvone had a strong inhibitory effect on metabolic activity and biomass of the preformed biofilm. The current study supports the utilization ofM. spicataEO as a traditional medicine and opens perceptions to find more potent substances in the EO for the management of obesity, AD, and dermatophytosis and for combating drug-resistant bacterial infections.
Solid-State Processing Route, Mechanical Behaviour, and Oxidation Resistance of TiAl Alloys
Authors: Cobbinah Prince V. , Matizamhuka Wallace R.
Published: October 2019

A primary challenge associated with TiAl alloys is their low ductility at room temperature. One approach to overcome this flaw is attaining ultrafine grains in the alloy’s final microstructure. The powder metallurgy (PM) processing route favours the synthesising of ultrafine grains in TiAl alloys. This paper features the mechanical alloying (MA) process and rapid consolidation through the spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique, which comprises the PM process. Furthermore, a second approach discussed covers microalloying TiAl alloys. An evaluation of the influence of high oxygen content is also presented, including the formation ofα-Al2O3. A section of the review delves into the dynamic recrystallisation mechanisms involved in elevated temperature deformation of TiAl alloys. The final section highlights the efficacy of ternary element additions to TiAl alloys against oxidation.
Interleukin-6 and Interleukin-15 as Possible Biomarkers of the Risk of Autoimmune Diabetes Development
Authors: Siewko Katarzyna , Maciulewski Rafal , Zielinska-Maciulewska Anna , Poplawska-Kita Anna , Szumowski Piotr , Wawrusiewicz-Kurylonek Natalia , Lipinska Danuta , Milewski Robert , Gorska Maria , Kretowski Adam , Szelachowska Malgorzata
Published: October 2019

Aim. The aim of our study was to assay circulating interleukin-15 (IL-15) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and insulin resistance measured by two different methods in newly diagnosed autoimmune diabetes (AD) patients, their I° relatives, and healthy controls. Material and Methods. The group studied consisted of 54 patients with AD (28 with Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA) and 26 with type 1 diabetes (T1D)), 70 first-degree relatives, and 60 controls. IL-6, IL-15, and anti-islet antibodies concentrations were measured by ELISA method. Homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMAIR) and estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR) were calculated. Results. The patients with AD had significantly higher IL-15, IL-6, and HOMAIR and lower eGDR than the controls (p<0.001, respectively) and first-degree relatives (p<0.001, respectively). Significantly higher IL-15 and IL-6 were shown in the relatives with positive Ab as compared to the relatives without antibodies (p<0.001, respectively) and the controls (p<0.001, respectively). IL-15 negatively correlated with eGDR (r=−0.436, p=0.021) in LADA and positively with HOMAIR in LADA and T1D (r=0.507, p<0.001; r=0.4209, p<0.001). Conclusions. Significantly higher IL-15 and IL-6 concentrations, HOMAIR, and markedly lower eGDR in newly diagnosed AD patients and first-degree relatives with positive anti-islet antibodies might suggest the role of these pro-inflammatory cytokines and insulin resistance in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diabetes. IL-15 and IL-6 might be used as biomarkers of the risk of autoimmune diabetes development, in particular IL-15 for LADA. Both methods of IR measurement appear equally useful for calculating insulin resistance in autoimmune diabetes.
Linear Discriminative Learning for Image Classification
Authors: Nawaz Jadoon Rab , Jadoon Waqas , Khan Ahmad , ur Rehman Zia , Shah Sajid , Khan Iftikhar Ahmed , Zhou WuYang
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we propose a linear discriminative learning model called adaptive locality‐based weighted collaborative representation (ALWCR) that formulates the image classification task as an optimization problem to reduce the reconstruction error between the query sample and its computed linear representation. The optimal linear representation for a query image is obtained by using the weighted regularized linear regression approach which incorporates intrinsic locality structure and feature variance between data into representation. The resultant representation increases the discrimination ability for correct classification. The proposed ALWCR method can be considered an extension of the collaborative representation‐ (CR‐) based classification approach which is an alternative to the sparse representation‐ (SR‐) based classification method. ALWCR improved the discriminant ability for classification as compared with CR original formulation and overcomes the limitations that arose due to a small training sample size and low feature dimension. Experimental results obtained using various feature dimensions on well‐known publicly available face and digit datasets have verified the competitiveness of the proposed method against competing image classification methods.
Baseline Serum sLOX-1 Concentrations Are Associated with 2-Year Major Adverse Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Events in Patients after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Zhao Zi-wen , Xu Yi-wei , Li Shu-mei , Guo Jin-jian , Sun Jian-min , Hong Ju-chang , Chen Liang-long
Published: October 2019

Background. Soluble lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (sLOX-1) may be a potential biomarker of coronary artery disease (CAD) and stroke. Objective. We aimed to investigate the association and prognostic value of elevated sLOX-1 concentrations with regard to long-term major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) in patients with CAD undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods. A total of 1011 patients were enrolled. Serum sLOX-1 concentrations were detected by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Patients were followed for 2 years. Multivariate Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier survival curve were explored to assess the association between sLOX-1 and MACCEs. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of sLOX-1. Results. Two-year MACCEs were associated with serum sLOX-1 concentrations (HR 1.278, 95% CI 1.019-1.604, P=0.034), left main disease (HR 2.938, 95% CI 1.246-6.925, P=0.014), small-caliber stents used (HR 2.207, 95% CI 1.189-4.095, P=0.012), and total stent length (HR 1.057, 95% CI 1.005-1.112, P=0.030). Serum sLOX-1 concentration≥1.10 ng/ml had maximum sensitivity and specificity in predicting the occurrence of 2-year MACCEs (P<0.001). Patients with higher serum sLOX-1 concentrations showed a significantly higher incidence of MACCEs in the Kaplan-Meier curve (P<0.001). The combination of any of the risk factors identified in multiple Cox regression was associated with a stepwise increase in MACCE rate (P<0.001). Conclusions. High baseline serum sLOX-1 concentration predicts 2-year MACCEs and shows an additional prognostic value to conventional risk factors in patients after primary PCI. sLOX-1 determination might play a complementary role in the risk stratification of patients with CAD treated with PCI.
Some Novel Complex Dynamic Behaviors of a Class of Four‐Dimensional Chaotic or Hyperchaotic Systems Based on a Meshless Collocation Method
Authors: Mingjing Du , Wang Yulan
Published: October 2019

In the field of complex systems, there is a need for better methods of knowledge discovery due to their nonlinear dynamics. The numerical simulation of chaotic or hyperchaotic system is mainly performed by the fourth‐order Runge–Kutta method, and other methods are rarely reported in previous work. A new method, which divides the entire intervals into N equal subintervals based on a meshless collocation method, has been constructed in this paper. Some new complex dynamical behaviors are shown by using this new approach, and the results are in good agreement with those obtained by the fourth‐order Runge–Kutta method.
Laboratory Experiments on Breaching Characteristics of Natural Dams on Sloping Beds
Authors: Jiang Xiangang
Published: October 2019

Natural dams formed by landslides may produce disastrous floods after dam outburst. However, studies on the breaching characteristics of natural dams on sloping beds systematically are still at an early stage, and especially the relationship between breach width and depth is still unclear. In this paper, results of a series of laboratory tests that assessed seven different flume bed slope angles are presented. The results show that 3 stages of breaching process of natural dams on different bed slopes were observed. According to the results, headward erosion was the main force for enlargement of breach when bed slope was relatively small. With the increasing of bed slope, the effect of tractive erosion on longitudinal development of breach wass enhanced. The discharge hydrographs were unimodal for all the bed slopes. The peak discharge increased first and then decreased with the increasing of bed slope. The elapsed time from the start of breach formation to the moment of peak discharge decreased with the increasing of bed slope. The difference between different bed slopes was larger when the bed slope was small or large, and the relationship between duration and bed slope had the same characteristics. With the increasing of bed slope, the ratio of breach width to breach depth rose to 1 and then decreased with the increasing of bed slope angle. A result of the present work is a function of the relationship between the breach width and depth for which it is possible to calculate them. This function is based on a shape parameter that linearly decreases with bed slope. The relationship between shape parameter and bed slope was developed to calculate the shape parameter with an additional relationship between shape parameter and mean diameter of particles. Combined with the experimental data and filed data of Tangjiashan natural dam, the shape parameter was calculated, and the function was validated.
Apocynin Dietary Supplementation Delays Mouse Ovarian Ageing
Authors: Timóteo-Ferreira F. , Mendes S. , Rocha N. A. , Matos L. , Rodrigues A. R. , Almeida H. , Silva E.
Published: October 2019

Advanced maternal age is associated with higher infertility rates, pregnancy-associated complications, and progeny health issues. The ovary is considered the main responsible for these consequences due to a continuous decay in follicle number and oocyte quality. Intracellular imbalance between oxidant molecules and antioxidant mechanisms, in favour of the former, results in oxidative stress (OS) that is believed to contribute to ovarian ageing. This work is aimed at evaluating whether an age-related increase in ovarian OS, inflammation, and fibrosis may contribute to tissue dysfunction and whether specific antioxidant supplementation with a NADPH oxidase inhibitor (apocynin) could ameliorate them. Mice aged 8–12 weeks (reproductively young) or 38-42 weeks (reproductively aged) were employed. Aged mice were divided into two groups, with one receiving apocynin (5 mM) in the drinking water, for 7 weeks, upon which animals were sacrificed and their ovaries collected. Ovarian structure was similar at both ages, but the ovaries from reproductively aged mice exhibited lipofuscin deposition, enhanced fibrosis, and a significant age-related reduction in primordial and primary follicle number when compared to younger animals. Protein carbonylation and nitration, and markers of OS were significantly increased with age. Moreover, mRNA levels of inflammation markers, collagens, metalloproteinases (MMPs), and tissue inhibitor MMPs (TIMPs) were upregulated. Expression of the antifibrotic miRNA29c-3p was significantly reduced. Apocynin supplementation ameliorated most of the age-related observed changes, sometimes to values similar to those observed in young females. These findings indicate that there is an age-related increase in OS that plays an important role in enhancing inflammation and collagen deposition, contributing to a decline in female fertility. Apocynin supplementation suggests that the imbalance can be ameliorated and thus delay ovarian ageing harmful effects.
Serum Levels of Kisspeptin Are Elevated in Patients with Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Loosen Sven H. , Luedde Mark , Lurje Georg , Spehlmann Martina , Paffenholz Pia , Ulmer Tom Florian , Tacke Frank , Vucur Mihael , Trautwein Christian , Neumann Ulf P. , Luedde Tom , Roderburg Christoph
Published: October 2019

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) still represents a devastating disease associated with a very limited survival. Novel biomarkers allowing an early diagnosis as well as an optimal selection of suitable treatment options for individual patients are urgently needed to improve the dismal outcome of PDAC patients. Recently, alterations of Kisspeptin serum levels, a member of the adipokine family, were described in various types of cancers. However, the role of circulating Kisspeptin as a biomarker in PDAC patients is poorly defined. In this study, we measured Kisspeptin serum levels in a cohort of 128 prospectively enrolled PDAC patients undergoing surgical resection as well as 36 healthy controls. Kisspeptin concentrations were elevated in PDAC patients compared to control samples. Nevertheless, Kisspeptin serum levels were independent of tumor-related factors such as the tumor grading, TNM stage, or clinical features such as the ECOG performance status. Finally, in our analysis, neither preoperative nor postoperative Kisspeptin levels turned out as a significant predictor of overall survival after tumor resection. In conclusion, our data suggest that Kisspeptin concentrations are altered in PDAC patients but do not allow to predict patients’ outcome after resection of PDAC.
Plasmaα-GlutathioneS-Transferase Evaluation in Patients with Acute and Chronic Liver Injury
Authors: Czuczejko Jolanta , Mila-Kierzenkowska Celestyna , Szewczyk-Golec Karolina
Published: October 2019

High concentration of alpha-glutathioneS-transferase (α-GST) in the liver and its short half-life make this enzyme clinically useful in assessing hepatocellular damage. We aimed to investigate the significance ofα-GST evaluation in monitoring of liver injury in acute and chronic liver diseases. 20 healthy volunteers and 52 patients were included in the study. The patients were divided into three groups: group I (acute viral hepatitis B or C), group II (chronic hepatitis B or C), and group III (chronic liver disease or cirrhosis with different etiologies). The concentration ofα-GST and the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured in all examined groups.α-GST, ALT, and AST were statistically higher in all patient groups than in the control group. Statistically higher values of all assessed parameters were observed in group I compared with remaining patients. Statistically higher activities of ALT and AST are observed in group III compared with group II. Significant positive correlations were noted betweenα-GST and ALT/AST in groups I and III. The results indicate that the assay ofα-GST in combination with the other conventional markers may be found as a confirmatory test for hepatocellular damage.