bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DC conductivity with external magnetic field in hyperscaling violating geometry
Authors: Bhatnagar Neha , Siwach Sanjay
Published: February 2018

We investigate the holographic DC conductivity of (2[Formula: see text]+[Formula: see text]1)-dimensional systems while considering hyperscaling violating geometry in bulk. We consider Einstein–Maxwell-dilaton system with two gauge fields and Liouville-type potential for dilaton. We also consider axionic fields in bulk to introduce momentum relaxation in the system. We apply an external magnetic field to study the response of the system and obtain analytic expressions for DC conductivity, Hall angle and (thermo)electric conductivity.
SU(5) with nonuniversal gaugino masses
Authors: Ajaib M. Adeel
Published: February 2018

We explore the sparticle spectroscopy of the supersymmetric SU(5) model with nonuniversal gaugino masses in light of latest experimental searches. We assume that the gaugino mass parameters are independent at the GUT scale. We find that the observed deviation in the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon can be explained in this model. The parameter space that explains this deviation predicts a heavy colored sparticle spectrum whereas the sleptons can be light. We also find a notable region of the parameter space that yields the desired relic abundance for dark matter. In addition, we analyze the model in light of latest limits from direct detection experiments and find that the parameter space corresponding to the observed deviation in the muon anomalous magnetic moment can be probed at some of the future direct detection experiments.
Dynamics and elastic interactions of the discrete multi-dark soliton solutions for the Kaup–Newell lattice equation
Authors: Liu Nan , Wen Xiao-Yong
Published: February 2018

Under consideration in this paper is the Kaup–Newell (KN) lattice equation which is an integrable discretization of the KN equation. Infinitely, many conservation laws and discrete N-fold Darboux transformation (DT) for this system are constructed and established based on its Lax representation. Via the resulting N-fold DT, the discrete multi-dark soliton solutions in terms of determinants are derived from non-vanishing background. Propagation and elastic interaction structures of such solitons are shown graphically. Overtaking interaction phenomena between/among the two, three and four solitons are discussed. Numerical simulations are used to explore their dynamical behaviors of such multi-dark solitons. Numerical results show that their evolutions are stable against a small noise. Results in this paper might be helpful for understanding the propagation of nonlinear Alfvén waves in plasmas.
Perturbed invariant subspaces and approximate generalized functional variable separation solution for nonlinear diffusion–convection equations with weak source
Authors: Xia Ya-Rong , Zhang Shun-Li , Xin Xiang-Peng
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we propose the concept of the perturbed invariant subspaces (PISs), and study the approximate generalized functional variable separation solution for the nonlinear diffusion–convection equation with weak source by the approximate generalized conditional symmetries (AGCSs) related to the PISs. Complete classification of the perturbed equations which admit the approximate generalized functional separable solutions (AGFSSs) is obtained. As a consequence, some AGFSSs to the resulting equations are explicitly constructed by way of examples.
Compensation of Temperature Effect for LVDT Transducer
Authors: Petchmaneelumka W. , Rerkratn A. , Luangpol A. , Riewruja V.
Published: February 2018

In this paper, a circuit technique to compensate the temperature effect in the output signal of the linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) is presented. The realization technique is based on the proposed feedback configuration to minimize the active component used in the circuit. The subtraction and sum schemes are provided instead of the error detector used in the traditional feedback loop. The feedback signal is obtained from two secondary winding signals of LVDT. The proposed feedback technique requires only the proportional control action to minimize the error caused by the variation of the ambient temperature. The sensitivity of LVDT is unaffected from the proposed compensation technique. The performances of the proposed technique are discussed in detail and confirmed by experimental implementation using the commercial devices. The maximum percentage error can be reduced from 6.52% of the LVDT output signal without temperature compensation to 0.05% of the proposed technique for the ambient temperature varied from 25[Formula: see text]C to 70[Formula: see text]C. The purpose of the proposed technique is emphasized in terms of high performance, simple configuration and low cost.
Role-Based Modeling for Designing Agent Behavior in Self-Organizing Multi-Agent Systems
Authors: Lhaksmana Kemas M. , Murakami Yohei , Ishida Toru
Published: February 2018

Self-organization has been proposed to be implemented in complex systems which require the automation capabilities to govern itself and to adapt upon changes. Self-organizing systems can be modeled as multi-agent systems (MAS) since they share common characteristics in that they consist of multiple autonomous systems. However, most existing MAS engineering methodologies do not fully support self-organizing systems design since they require predefined goals and agent behaviors, which is not the case in self-organizing systems. Another feature that is currently not supported for designing self-organizing MAS is the separation between the design of agent behaviors and behavior adaptation, i.e. how agents adapt their behaviors to respond upon changes. To tackle these issues, this paper proposes a role modeling method, in which agent behaviors are represented as roles, to design how agents perform behavior adaptation at runtime by switching between roles. The applicability of the proposed role modeling method is evaluated in a case study of a self-organizing smart transportation system.
Empirical Study on the Distribution of Bugs in Software Systems
Authors: Shriram C. K. , Muthukumaran K. , Bhanu Murthy N. L.
Published: February 2018

Many research studies in the past have shown that the distribution of bugs in software systems follows the Pareto principle. Some studies have also proposed the Pareto distribution (PD) to model bugs in software systems. However, several other probability distributions such as the Weibull, Bounded Generalized Pareto, Double Pareto (DP), Log Normal and Yule–Simon distributions have also been proposed and each of them has been evaluated for their fitness to model bugs in different studies. We investigate this problem further by making use of information theoretic (criterion-based) approaches to model selection by which several issues like overfitting, etc., that are prevalent in previous works, can be handled elegantly. By strengthening the model selection procedure and studying a large collection of fault data, the results are made more accurate and stable. We conduct experiments on fault data from 74 releases of various open source and proprietary software systems and observe that the DP distribution outperforms all others with statistical significance in the case of proprietary projects. For open source software systems, the top three performing distributions are DP, Bounded Generalized Pareto, Weibull models and they are significantly better than all others though there is no significant difference amongst three of them.
Radiation of quantum black holes and modified uncertainty relation
Authors: Kamali A. D. , Pedram P.
Published: February 2018

In this paper, using a deformed algebra [Formula: see text] which is originated from various theories of gravity, we study thermodynamical properties of quantum black holes (BHs) in canonical ensembles. We exactly calculate the modified internal energy, entropy and heat capacity. Moreover, we investigate a tunneling mechanism of massless particle in phase space. In this regard, the tunneling radiation of BH receives new corrections and the exact radiant spectrum is no longer precisely thermal. In addition, we show that our results are compatible with other quantum gravity (QG) approaches.
Use of Computed Tomography in Determining the Occurrence of Dorsal and Intra-articular Screw Penetration in Volar Locking Plate Osteosynthesis of Distal Radius Fracture
Authors: Diong Teik Wei , Haflah Nor Hazla Mohamed , Kassim Abdul Yazid Mohd , Habshi Sharifah Majedah Idrus Al , Shukur Mohd Hassan
Published: February 2018

Background: The use of volar locking plate in distal radius fracture can lead to extensor tendon rupture due to dorsal screw penetration. The aim of our study was to investigate the occurrence of dorsal and intra-articular screw penetration using CT scan after volar distal radius osteosynthesis for distal radius fractures.

Methods: Thirty patients who underwent distal volar locking plate for distal radius fracture were included in a retrospective study. In all 30 patients no dorsal and intra-articular screw penetration were detected on standard AP and lateral views of a plain radiograph. CT scan of the operated wrist was performed to determine the number of intra-articular and dorsal screw penetrations. Clinical examination was performed to determine the wrist functions in comparison to the normal wrist.

Results: Nineteen wrists were noted to have screw penetration either dorsally or intraarticularly. The highest incidence is in the 2nd extensor compartment where 13 screws had penetrated with a mean of 2.46 mm. Six screws penetrated into the distal radial ulnar joint and five screws into the wrist joint with a mean of 2.83 mm and 2.6 mm, respectively. However, there was no incidence of tendon irritation or rupture.

Conclusions: This study demonstrated a high incidence of dorsal and intra-articular screw penetration detected by CT scan which was not apparent in plain radiograph. We recommend that surgeons adhere to the principle of only near cortex fixation and downsizing the locking screw length by 2 mm.
Isolated Salter-Harris Type III Physeal Fracture of the Distal Ulna
Authors: Yukata Kiminori , Nakai Sho , Ikeda Masaki , Hamawaki Jun-ichi
Published: February 2018

We describe a case of isolated physeal fracture of ulna distal end in a 13-year-old boy. This fracture type is uncommon, especially Salter-Harris type III of this injury has not been reported. Plain radiographs showed a small vertical fracture line at the ulnar distal end and an enlargement of epiphyseal plate at the base of ulnar styloid process. The present case was successfully managed with conservative treatment because of its minimal displacement.
Soft-Tissue Distraction Prior to Single Bone Forearm Surgery in Ulnar Longitudinal Deficiency: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Schachinger Florian , Girsch Werner , Farr Sebastian
Published: February 2018

Ulnar longitudinal deficiency (ULD) is a rare congenital disease of the upper limb. The deformities caused by ULD can be very challenging and may compromise hand function during daily activities. Although the first surgical intervention dates back to the year 1952 there is still no gold standard for treating this uncommon disorder. Two children aged 16 and 3 years with ULD Bayne Type II (partial ulna aplasia) were diagnosed and treated at our department with single bone forearm surgery to achieve stability and improve function using a modified surgical method. For the purpose of an additional gain in limb length and improved cosmesis we used an Ilizarov external fixator for soft tissue distraction including radius distalization prior to the creation of the single bone forearm. This new technique and results are presented and discussed.
Platelet procoagulant phenotype is modulated by a p38-MK2 axis that regulates RTN4/Nogo proximal to the endoplasmic reticulum: utility of pathway analysis
Authors: Babur Özgün , Ngo Anh T. P. , Rigg Rachel A. , Pang Jiaqing , Rub Zhoe T. , Buchanan Ariana E. , Mitrugno Annachiara , David Larry L. , McCarty Owen J. T. , Demir Emek , Aslan Joseph E.
Published: February 2018

Upon encountering physiological cues associated with damaged or inflamed endothelium, blood platelets set forth intracellular responses to ultimately support hemostatic plug formation and vascular repair. To gain insights into the molecular events underlying platelet function, we used a combination of interactome, pathway analysis, and other systems biology tools to analyze associations among proteins functionally modified by reversible phosphorylation upon platelet activation. While an interaction analysis mapped out a relative organization of intracellular mediators in platelet signaling, pathway analysis revealed directional signaling relations around protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) associated with platelet cytoskeletal dynamics, inflammatory responses, and hemostatic function. Pathway and causality analysis further suggested that platelets activate a specific p38-MK2 axis to phosphorylate RTN4 (reticulon-4, also known as Nogo), a Bcl-xl sequestration protein and critical regulator of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) physiology. In vitro, we find that platelets drive a p38-MK2-RTN4-Bcl-xl pathway associated with the regulation of the ER and platelet phosphatidylserine exposure. Together, our results support the use of pathway tools in the analysis of omics data sets as a means to help generate novel, mechanistic, and testable hypotheses for platelet studies while uncovering RTN4 as a putative regulator of platelet cell physiological responses.
The common marmoset monkey: avenues for exploring the prenatal, placental, and postnatal mechanisms in developmental programming of pediatric obesity
Authors: Riesche Laren , Tardif Suzette D. , Ross Corinna N. , deMartelly Victoria A. , Ziegler Toni , Rutherford Julienne N.
Published: February 2018

Animal models have been critical in building evidence that the prenatal experience and intrauterine environment are capable of exerting profound and permanent effects on metabolic health through developmental programming of obesity. However, despite physiological and evolutionary similarities, nonhuman primate models are relatively rare. The common marmoset monkey ( Callithrix jacchus) is a New World monkey that has been used as a biomedical model for well more than 50 years and has recently been framed as an appropriate model for exploring early-life impacts on later health and disease. The spontaneous, multifactorial, and early-life development of obesity in the common marmoset make it a valuable research model for advancing our knowledge about the role of the prenatal and placental mechanisms involved in developmental programming of obesity. This paper provides a brief overview of obesity in the common marmoset, followed by a discussion of marmoset reproduction and placental characteristics. We then discuss the occurrence and utility of variable intrauterine environments in developmental programming in marmosets. Evidence of developmental programming of obesity will be given, and finally, we put forward future directions and innovations for including the placenta in developmental programming of obesity in the common marmoset.
Peptide hormone relaxin: from bench to bedside
Authors: Jelinic Maria , Marshall Sarah A. , Stewart Dennis , Unemori Elaine , Parry Laura J. , Leo Chen Huei
Published: February 2018

The peptide hormone relaxin has numerous roles both within and independent of pregnancy and is often thought of as a “pleiotropic hormone.” Relaxin targets several tissues throughout the body, and has many functions associated with extracellular matrix remodeling and the vasculature. This review considers the potential therapeutic applications of relaxin in cervical ripening, in vitro fertilization, preeclampsia, acute heart failure, ischemia-reperfusion, and cirrhosis. We first outline the animal models used in preclinical studies to progress relaxin into clinical trials and then discuss the findings from these studies. In many cases, the positive outcomes from preclinical animal studies were not replicated in human clinical trials. Therefore, the focus of this review is to evaluate the various animal models used to develop relaxin as a potential therapeutic and consider the limitations that must be addressed in future studies. These include the use of human relaxin in animals, duration of relaxin treatment, and the appropriateness of the clinical conditions being considered for relaxin therapy.
Identification of differential gene expression patterns in human arteries from patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Stubbe Jane , Skov Vibe , Thiesson Helle Charlotte , Larsen Karl Egon , Hansen Maria L. , Jensen Boye L. , Jespersen Bente , Rasmussen Lars M.
Published: February 2018

Uremia accelerates atherosclerosis, but little is known about affected pathways in human vasculature. This study aimed to identify differentially expressed arterial transcripts in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Global mRNA expression was estimated by microarray hybridization in iliac arteries ( n = 14) from renal transplant recipients and compared with renal arteries from healthy living kidney donors ( n = 19) in study 1. Study 2 compared nonatherosclerotic internal mammary arteries (IMA) from five patients with elevated plasma creatinine levels and age- and sex-matched controls with normal creatinine levels. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry for selected proteins were performed on a subset of study 1 samples. Fifteen gene transcripts were significantly different between the two groups in study 1 [fold changes (FC) > 1.05 and false discovery rates (FDR) < 0.005]. Most upregulated mRNAs associated with cellular signaling, apoptosis, TNFα/NF-κB signaling, smooth muscle contraction, and 10 other pathways were significantly affected. To focus attention on genes from genuine vascular cells, which dominate in IMA, concordant deregulated genes in studies 1 and 2 were examined and included 23 downregulated and eight upregulated transcripts (settings in study 1: FC > 1.05 and FDR < 0.05; study 2: FC > 1.2 and P < 0.2). Selected deregulated gene products were investigated at the protein level, and whereas HIF3α confirmed mRNA upregulation, vimentin showed upregulation in contrast to the mRNA results. We conclude that arteries from CKD patients display change in relatively few sets of genes. Many were related to differentiated vascular smooth muscle cell phenotype. These identified genes may contribute to understanding the development of arterial injury among patients with CKD.
A new low-nephron CKD model with hypertension, progressive decline of renal function, and enhanced inflammation in C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Wei Jin , Zhang Jie , Wang Lei , Cha Byeong Jake , Jiang Shan , Liu Ruisheng
Published: February 2018

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health issue in the US. The typical five-sixths nephrectomy (typical 5/6 NX) is a widely used experimental CKD model. However, the typical 5/6 NX model is hypertensive in rats but strain dependent in mice. In particular, C57BL/6 mice with the typical 5/6 NX exhibits normal blood pressure and well-preserved renal function. The goal of the present study was to create a new hypertensive CKD model in C57BL/6 mice. We first characterized the vascular architecture originated from each renal artery branch by confocal laser-scanning microscopy with fluorescent lectin. Then, a novel 5/6 NX-BL model was generated by uninephrectomy combined with 2/3 renal infarction via a ligation of upper renal artery branch on the contralateral kidney. Compared with 5/6 NX-C, the 5/6 NX-BL model exhibited elevated mean arterial pressure (137.6 ± 13.9 vs. 104.7 ± 8.2 mmHg), decreased glomerular filtration rate (82.9 ± 19.2 vs. 125.0 ± 13.9 µl/min) with a reciprocal increase in plasma creatinine (0.31 ± 0.03 vs. 0.19 ± 0.04 mg/dl), and significant renal injury as assessed by proteinuria, histology with light, and transmission electron microscopy. In addition, inflammatory status, as indicated by the level of proinflammatory cytokine TNFα and the leukocyte counts, was significantly upregulated in 5/6 NX-BL compared with the 5/6 NX-C. In summary, we developed a new hypertensive CKD model in C57BL/6 mice with 5/6 renal mass reduction by uninephrectomy and upper renal artery branch ligation on the contralateral kidney. This 5/6 NX-BL model exhibits an infarction zone-dependent hypertension and progressive deterioration of the renal function accompanied by enhanced inflammatory response.
The Effects of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure on Premature Ventricular Contractions and Ventricular Wall Stress in Patients with Heart Failure and Sleep Apnea
Authors: Seyis Sabri , Usalan Adnan Kazım , Rencuzogullari Ibrahim , Kurmuş Özge , Gungen Adil Can
Published: February 2018

Background. We aimed to investigate the effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment on electrocardiography (ECG), premature ventricular contraction load on 24-hour Holter recordings, and implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) shocks in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and heart failure. Methods. Patients with heart failure and ICD and patients with newly diagnosed OSAS were divided into two groups according to CPAP treatment. To compare the impact of CPAP on ECG parameters, both baseline and 6-month ECG, 24-hour Holter ECG, ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, echocardiography, polysomnography, and laboratory parameters were collected. Results. CPAP treatment significantly reduced the frequency of premature ventricular contractions, T-peak to T-end, corrected QT, corrected QT dispersion, and T-peak to T-end/corrected QT ratio in the study group (p < 0.001 for all). Although the baseline NT-pro-BNP levels were similar between study and control groups, after six months, the NT-pro-BNP levels of the study group were significantly lower than that of the control group (39.18 ± 7.57 versus 46.11 ± 7.65; p < 0.001). Conclusions. CPAP treatment in patients with heart failure and ICD and in patients with newly diagnosed OSAS may have beneficial effects on premature ventricular contractions and electrocardiographic arrhythmia indices and NT-pro-BNP levels. However, these results are needed to be clarified with further studies.
Laplace Graph Embedding Class Specific Dictionary Learning for Face Recognition
Authors: Wang Li , Wang Yan-Jiang , Liu Bao-Di
Published: February 2018

The sparse representation based classification (SRC) method and collaborative representation based classification (CRC) method have attracted more and more attention in recent years due to their promising results and robustness. However, both SRC and CRC algorithms directly use the training samples as the dictionary, which leads to a large fitting error. In this paper, we propose the Laplace graph embedding class specific dictionary learning (LGECSDL) algorithm, which trains a weight matrix and embeds a Laplace graph to reconstruct the dictionary. Firstly, it can increase the dimension of the dictionary matrix, which can be used to classify the small sample database. Secondly, it gives different dictionary atoms with different weights to improve classification accuracy. Additionally, in each class dictionary training process, the LGECSDL algorithm introduces the Laplace graph embedding method to the objective function in order to keep the local structure of each class, and the proposed method is capable of improving the performance of face recognition according to the class specific dictionary learning and Laplace graph embedding regularizer. Moreover, we also extend the proposed method to an arbitrary kernel space. Extensive experimental results on several face recognition benchmark databases demonstrate the superior performance of our proposed algorithm.
An Efficient and Robust Numerical Solution of the Full-Order Multiscale Model of Lithium-Ion Battery
Authors: Beneš Michal , Fučík Radek , Havlena Vladimír , Klement Vladimír , Kolář Miroslav , Polívka Ondřej , Solovský Jakub , Strachota Pavel
Published: February 2018

We propose a novel and efficient numerical approach for solving the pseudo two-dimensional multiscale model of the Li-ion cell dynamics based on first principles, describing the ion diffusion through the electrolyte and the porous electrodes, electric potential distribution, and Butler-Volmer kinetics. The numerical solution is obtained by the finite difference discretization of the diffusion equations combined with an original iterative scheme for solving the integral formulation of the laws of electrochemical interactions. We demonstrate that our implementation is fast and stable over the expected lifetime of the cell. In contrast to some simplified models, it provides physically consistent results for a wide range of applied currents including high loads. The algorithm forms a solid basis for simulations of cells and battery packs in hybrid electric vehicles, with possible straightforward extensions by aging and heat effects.
Decision‐Making Methodologies for Reuse of Industrial Assets
Authors: Claver J. , García-Domínguez A. , Sebastián M. A.
Published: February 2018

When there is a social consensus that industrial assets are in fact heritage elements of cultural interest, their conservation and reuse must be considered with approaches that offer greater guarantees and that prevent their exposure to aggressive actions. In order for this to materialise, many aspects must be included in the decision‐making process, from the characteristics of an asset and its surroundings, to the valuable aspects that distinguish it and that must be protected. This study aims to develop tools that guide the decision‐making process regarding the most appropriate activity for each specific case study. Multicriteria Decision Support Techniques are evaluated as adequate support to create a proposal that fulfils these objectives. Furthermore, the Analytic Hierarchy Process is adapted to develop methodologies for assessing both the heritage value and the most compatible uses according to the characteristics of the asset. Subsequently, they are connected and such considerations regarding the heritage value of the asset are incorporated into the final decision. The tools developed are then applied to a case study to test their performance, assess their usefulness, and identify possible applications and future developments.
Practical In Situ Implementation of a Multicamera Multisystem Calibration
Authors: Detchev Ivan , Habib Ayman , Mazaheri Mehdi , Lichti Derek
Published: February 2018

Consumer-grade cameras are generally low-cost and available off-the-shelf, so having multicamera photogrammetric systems for 3D reconstruction is both financially feasible and practical. Such systems can be deployed in many different types of applications: infrastructure health monitoring, cultural heritage documentation, bio-medicine, as-built surveys, and indoor or outdoor mobile mapping for example. A geometric system calibration is usually necessary before a data acquisition mission in order for the results to have optimal accuracy. A typical system calibration must address the estimation of both the interior and the exterior, or relative, orientation parameters for each camera in the system. This article reviews different ways of performing a calibration of a photogrammetric system consisting of multiple cameras. It then proposes a methodology for the simultaneous estimation of both the interior and the relative orientation parameters which can work in several different types of scenarios including a multicamera multisystem calibration. A rigorous in situ system calibration was successfully implemented and tested. The same algorithm is able to handle the equivalent to a traditional-style bundle adjustment, that is, a network solution without constraints, for a single or multicamera calibrations, and the proposed bundle adjustment with built-in relative orientation constraints for the calibration of a system or multiple systems of cameras.
Microstructural Evolution in Chroming Coatings Friction Pairs under Dry Sliding Test Conditions
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhang Rulin , Zhou Tao , Wei Xicheng , Liaw Peter , Feng Rui , Wang Wurong , Li Rongbin
Published: February 2018

The microstructures of subsurface layers of 20CrMnTi steel pins against chroming and nonchroming T10 under dry sliding tests were studied by means of OM (optical microscopy), XRD (X-ray diffraction), and SEM (scanning electron microscopy). Results showed that the chroming coating strengthened the disc surface and significantly affected microstructural evolution. Three layers—the matrix, deformation layer (DL), and surface layer (SL)—formed in 20CrMnTi for the chroming T10. The matrix and deformation layer (DL) formed in 20CrMnTi for the nonchroming T10. The formation of the microstructure was considered as a result of the shear deformation.
Lateral Stability Control of Four-Wheel Independent Drive Electric Vehicles Based on Model Predictive Control
Authors: Huang Bin , Wu Sen , Huang Song , Fu Xiang
Published: February 2018

Four-wheel independent drive electric vehicle was used as the research object to discuss the lateral stability control algorithm, thus improving vehicle stability under limit conditions. After establishing hierarchical integrated control structure, we designed the yaw moment decision controller based on model predictive control (MPC) theory. Meanwhile, the wheel torque was assigned by minimizing the sum of consumption rates of adhesion coefficients of four tires according to the tire friction ellipse theory. The integrated simulation platform of Carsim and Simulink was established for simulation verification of yaw/rollover stability control algorithm. Then, we finished road experiment verification of real vehicle by integrated control algorithm. The result showed that this control method can achieve the expectation of effective vehicle tracking, significantly improving the lateral stability of vehicle.
Study on Vibration Characteristics and Human Riding Comfort of a Special Equipment Cab
Authors: Ren Wu , Peng Bo , Shen Jiefen , Li Yang , Yu Yi
Published: February 2018

Special equipment drivers often suffered from vibration which threatened their physical and mental health. In order to study the riding comfort of a special equipment cab, a hammering experiment has been carried out on it by acceleration sensors. According to the test results, the natural frequency has been calculated which was compared with the result analysis by the finite element method. Next, the equipment operating condition test on a flat road was done. The vibration characteristics of the whole vehicle were obtained later. The results show that the cab vibration and the finite element results agree well, but the natural frequency of the cab is close to the vibration frequency of the human body. And this is not conducive to long-term operation of the drivers. In order to improve the human operational comfort, it is necessary to reduce its natural frequency during the cab structure design process. The research in this paper can provide help for the similar human-machine operation comfort study and product design.
Multiscale Fracture Analysis in a Reservoir-Scale Carbonate Platform Exposure (Sorrento Peninsula, Italy): Implications for Fluid Flow
Authors: Massaro L. , Corradetti A. , Vinci F. , Tavani S. , Iannace A. , Parente M. , Mazzoli S.
Published: February 2018

We derive the discrete fracture network (DFN) of a Lower Cretaceous carbonate platform succession exposed at Mt. Faito (Southern Apennines), which represents a good outcrop analogue of the coeval productive units of the buried Apulian Platform in the Basilicata oilfields. A stochastic distribution of joints has been derived by sampling at two different scales of observation. At the outcrop scale, we measured fracture attributes by means of scan lines. At a larger scale, we extracted fracture attributes from a 3D model. This multiscale survey showed the occurrence of an arresting bed for through-going fractures, which is characterized by a low relative permeability, determining a vertical compartmentalization. The DFN model, obtained by integrating fieldwork and numerical modelling by means of the 3D-Move® software, shows a well-defined relationship of permeability and fracture porosity with the relative connectivity of the fracture network. The latter is influenced by the length and aperture and to a lesser extent by the fracture intensity. The permeability distribution obtained for our outcrop analogue can be used to inform modelling of the Basilicata oilfield reservoirs, although the different burial history between the exposed Apennine Platform and the buried Apulian Platform must be taken into account.
Comparative Analysis of the Effectiveness of the Topical Administration of Benzocaine and EMLA® on Oral Pain and Tactile Sensitivity
Authors: Gondim David Gomes de Alencar , Montagner Antonio Marcos , Pita-Neto Ivo Cavalcante , Bringel Romildo José de Siqueira , Sandrini Francisco Aurelio Luchesi , Moreno Eduardo Fernando Chaves , Sousa Amanda Mendes de , Correia Andreza Bastos
Published: February 2018

Objectives. To compare the effectiveness of the topical administration of benzocaine and EMLA on oral pain and tactile sensitivity. Materials and Methods. A randomized, double-blind, split-mouth clinical trial was carried out with 20 volunteers. The sensorial and quantitative tests were applied before the contact with topical anesthetic and after the application. Results. In the superficial tactile perception test, when we compared each group singly, there were statistically significant values in the decrease of superficial tactile perception when compared to the moment prior to the application of anesthetic agents. For the sensitivity to mechanical pain, no statistical significant difference was observed at evaluated times. In the needle penetration test, in an intergroup analysis, we found a decrease in the pain sensitivity to needle penetration at 5 min (p=0.053) and at 10 min (p=0.019) after the contact of the anesthetic drug with the oral mucosa. Conclusion. The application of topical anesthetic drugs reduces the discomfort associated with this procedure, mainly until the first 10 minutes. Only the needle penetration sensitivity test showed sufficient sensitivity to reveal a difference in the anesthetic effect between EMLA and benzocaine. This trial is registered with RBR-2N2GSW.
CD38/cADPR Signaling Pathway in Airway Disease: Regulatory Mechanisms
Authors: Deshpande Deepak A. , Guedes Alonso G. P. , Graeff Richard , Dogan Soner , Subramanian Subbaya , Walseth Timothy F. , Kannan Mathur S.
Published: February 2018

Asthma is an inflammatory disease in which proinflammatory cytokines have a role in inducing abnormalities of airway smooth muscle function and in the development of airway hyperresponsiveness. Inflammatory cytokines alter calcium (Ca2+) signaling and contractility of airway smooth muscle, which results in nonspecific airway hyperresponsiveness to agonists. In this context, Ca2+regulatory mechanisms in airway smooth muscle and changes in these regulatory mechanisms encompass a major component of airway hyperresponsiveness. Although dynamic Ca2+regulation is complex, phospholipase C/inositol tris-phosphate (PLC/IP3) and CD38-cyclic ADP-ribose (CD38/cADPR) are two major pathways mediating agonist-induced Ca2+regulation in airway smooth muscle. Altered CD38 expression or enhanced cyclic ADP-ribosyl cyclase activity associated with CD38 contributes to human pathologies such as asthma, neoplasia, and neuroimmune diseases. This review is focused on investigations on the role of CD38-cyclic ADP-ribose signaling in airway smooth muscle in the context of transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation of CD38 expression. The specific roles of transcription factors NF-kB and AP-1 in the transcriptional regulation of CD38 expression and of miRNAs miR-140-3p and miR-708 in the posttranscriptional regulation and the underlying mechanisms of such regulation are discussed.
FDA Approval: Ribociclib for the Treatment of Postmenopausal Women with Hormone Receptor–Positive, HER2-Negative Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Shah Anand , Bloomquist Erik , Tang Shenghui , Fu Wentao , Bi Youwei , Liu Qi , Yu Jingyu , Zhao Ping , Palmby Todd R. , Goldberg Kirsten B. , Chang C.J. George , Patel Paresma , Alebachew Elleni , Tilley Amy , Pierce William F. , Ibrahim Amna , Blumenthal Gideon M. , Sridhara Rajeshwari , Beaver Julia A. , Pazdur Richard
Published: February 2018

On March 13, 2017, the FDA approved ribociclib (KISQALI; Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp.), a cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor, in combination with an aromatase inhibitor as initial endocrine-based therapy for the treatment of postmenopausal women with hormone receptor (HR)–positive, HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer. The approval was based on a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, international clinical trial (MONALEESA-2). A total of 668 patients were randomized to receive either ribociclib plus letrozole (n = 334) or placebo plus letrozole (n = 334). An improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) was observed in patients receiving ribociclib plus letrozole compared with patients receiving placebo plus letrozole [HR = 0.556; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.429–0.720]. Overall response rate (ORR) in patients with measurable disease was 52.7% (95% CI, 46.6–58.9) in the ribociclib plus letrozole arm and 37.1% (95% CI, 31.1–43.2) in the placebo plus letrozole arm. Overall survival data were immature. The most common adverse reactions observed in 20% or more of patients taking ribociclib were neutropenia, nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, leukopenia, alopecia, vomiting, constipation, headache, and back pain. This article summarizes FDA decision-making and data supporting the approval of ribociclib. Clin Cancer Res; 24(13); 2999–3004. ©2018 AACR.

See related commentary by Spring and Bardia, p. 2981
APOE ε4 Genotype and Cognitive Reserve Effects on the Cognitive Functioning of Healthy Elders
Authors: López María Eugenia , Turrero Agustín , Delgado María Luisa , Rodríguez-Rojo Inmaculada Concepción , Arrazola Juan , Barabash Ana , Maestú Fernando , Fernández Alberto
Published: February 2018

Aim: To test the association between cognitive performance and APOE genotype, and to assess potential modifications of this association by sociodemographic and neuroanatomical factors in a sample of 74 healthy elders. Methods: Firstly, we explored the isolated role of the APOE ɛ4 genotype (i.e., APOE4) in different neuropsychological tests, and then the effects of its interaction with sociodemographic (i.e., age, gender, and educational level) and neuroanatomical (i.e., hippocampal volumes) variables. Subsequently, we performed the same analyses after dividing the sample into two subgroups according to their Mini-Mental State Examination scores (control-high group ≥29 and control-low group < 29). Results: In the whole group, APOE4 carriers exhibited a significantly poorer execution in several cognitive domains including global cognitive functioning, episodic memory, verbal fluency, and naming. This effect was more noticeable in older and less educated subjects. The separated analyses revealed that APOE4 carriers in the control-low group exhibited lower scores in global cognitive functioning and episodic memory, while no effects were observed in the control-high group. Neither gender nor hippocampal volumes showed a significant interaction effect with APOE genotype. Conclusions: Current results point out that APOE4 genotype influences healthy aged cognition, although factors such age or educational attainment seem to modulate its effects.
Lungenbeteiligung bei erwachsenen Patienten mit angeborenen Stoffwechselerkrankungen
Authors: Tran Christel , Barbey Frederic , Lazor Romain , Bonafé Luisa
Published: February 2018

Angeborene Stoffwechselerkrankungen (inborn errors of metabolism, IEM) sind einzeln betrachtet selten; zusammengenommen betreffen sie jedoch 1 von 1000 Menschen. Die meisten Erkrankungen werden im Kindesalter klinisch manifest; späte Formen und solche mit längerer Überlebensdauer sind jedoch auch bei Erwachsenen aller Altersstufen zu beobachten. Gewöhnlich manifestiert sich eine IEM nicht primär in der Lunge, allerdings kann es in einigen Fällen zu einer erheblichen pulmonalen Beteiligung mit entsprechend schweren respiratorischen Komplikationen kommen. Die Lungenbeteiligung kann eine späte Manifestationsform einer komplexen multisystemischen Erkrankung darstellen und gelegentlich sogar die einzige Manifestation einer zugrunde liegenden IEM sein. In der vorliegenden Übersichtsarbeit liegt der Fokus auf bestimmten IEM mit Lungenbeteiligung bei Erwachsenen. Der Leser erhält einen Überblick zur Diagnostik, zum allgemeinen Krankheitsmanagement und zu speziellen Therapien für respiratorische Manifestationsformen. Ein klinischer Verdacht, frühzeitiges Erkennen, eine rasche Diagnose und entsprechende Behandlung der respiratorischen Manifestation sind entscheidend, da sie sowohl Auswirkungen auf die Lebenserwartung als auch auf die Lebensqualität der Patienten haben können. Übersetzung aus Respiration 2017;94:2-13 (DOI:10.1159/000475762)
Endoskopische Lungenvolumenreduktion (ELVR): Empfehlungen eines Expertenkomitees. Update 2017
Authors: Wagner Manfred
Published: February 2018

Interest in endoscopic lung volume reduction (ELVR) technologies for emphysema is consistently growing. In the last couple of months, several endoscopic options (e.g., endo- or intrabronchial valves, coil implants, and thermal vapor ablation) that have been evaluated in randomized controlled trials have been reported with the ultimate goal of improving respiratory mechanics and alleviating chronic dyspnea. Patients presenting with severe air trapping and thoracic hyperinflation have the greatest potential to derive benefit from ELVR procedures. Baseline assessment should ideally include cardiological evaluation, high-resolution computed tomography scan and perfusion scintigraphy, full pulmonary function tests, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. This expert statement updates best practice recommendations regarding patient selection and utilization of these various techniques for the treatment of patients with advanced emphysema.
Procedures Performed during Hospitalizations for Malignant Pleural Effusions: Data from the 2012 National Inpatient Sample
Authors: Fortin Marc , Taghizadeh Niloofar , Tremblay Alain
Published: February 2018

Background: Malignant pleural effusions (MPE) are a common clinical problem. Little is known about the burden of MPE and of the treatments used to alleviate its symptoms on the United States Health Care System. Objectives: We aimed to obtain a better portrait of inpatient pleural procedures performed in the United States. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of MPE-associated hospitalizations using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project-Nationwide Inpatient Sample, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (HCUP-NIS 2012). Descriptive statistics were used to analyze procedures performed and their complications. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to explore the relationship between procedures performed and inpatient mortality and length of stay. Results: Among the 126,825 hospital admissions with a diagnosis of MPE, 72,240 included one or more pleural procedures. Thoracentesis (54,070) was the most frequently performed procedure followed by chest tube placement (23,035), chemical pleurodesis (10,240), and thoracoscopy (6,615). Hospitalization for lung and breast cancer was more likely to include pleural procedures compared to hospitalization for other types of cancer (59.2 and 65.6%, respectively, p < 0.0001). Chemical pleurodesis through a chest tube compared to thoracoscopic chemical pleurodesis was performed more frequently (57 vs. 43%, p < 0.001) and associated with a longer hospital stay (4.9 vs. 5.9 days, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Hospital admissions for MPE represent a large burden on the US Health Care System. Many hospitalizations are associated with procedures not expected to reduce the recurrence rate of this condition.
Wegweiser für eine personalisierte Therapie bei OSA
Authors: Herkenrath Simon-Dominik , Randerath Winfried J.
Published: February 2018

The primary pathological event in the disorder obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the partial or complete closure of the pharyngeal airway during sleep in an individual with a widely patent airway during wakefulness. This yields an apnea or hypopnea with resulting hypoxia and hypercapnia, and most often requires an arousal to terminate the event. These events occur in a repetitive manner during sleep, yielding intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation with their associated adverse effects on the health and quality of life of the afflicted individual. Here, we focus on the events leading up to these apneas and hypopneas, primarily addressing pharyngeal anatomy, upper airway muscle control, the respiratory arousal threshold, and ventilatory control instability in OSA pathophysiology.
Overexpression of SNX3 Decreases Amyloid-β Peptide Production by Reducing Internalization of Amyloid Precursor Protein
Authors: Xu Shaohua , Nigam Saket M. , Brodin Lennart
Published: February 2018

Background: Sorting nexins (SNXs) have diverse functions in protein sorting and membrane trafficking. Recently, single-nucleotide polymorphisms in SNX3 were found to be associated with Alzheimer disease. However, it remains unknown whether SNX3 participates in amyloid (A)β peptide production. Objective: To examine the role of SNX3 in Aβ production and APP processing. Methods: The effect of increased expression of SNX3 was studied in HEK293T cells. Aβ peptides were measured by immunoassay. Protein-protein association was analyzed by a bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assay. APP uptake was measured with an α-bungarotoxin-binding assay, and flow cytometry was used to measure cell surface APP levels. Results: We found that overexpression of SNX3 in HEK293T cells decreases the levels of secreted Aβ and soluble N-terminal APP fragments (sAPPβ). The reduction correlated with a decreased association of APP with BACE1, as revealed by BiFC. This effect may, in part, be explained by a reduced internalization of APP; SNX3 overexpression reduced APP internalization as determined by an α-bungarotoxin-binding assay, and caused increased APP levels on the cell surface, as shown by flow cytometry. In addition, SNX3 overexpression increased the cellular levels of full-length APP. Conclusion: These results provide evidence that SNX3 regulates Aβ production by influencing the internalization of APP.