bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computing the linear viscoelastic properties of soft gels using an optimally windowed chirp protocol
Authors: Bouzid Mehdi , Keshavarz Bavand , Geri Michela , Divoux Thibaut , Del Gado Emanuela , McKinley Gareth H.
Published: July 2018

We use molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the linear viscoelastic response of a model three-dimensional particulate gel. The numerical simulations are combined with a novel test protocol (the optimally windowed chirp or OWCh), in which a continuous exponentially varying frequency sweep windowed by a tapered cosine function is applied. The mechanical response of the gel is then analyzed in the Fourier domain. We show that (i) OWCh leads to an accurate computation of the full frequency spectrum at a rate significantly faster than with the traditional discrete frequency sweeps, and with a reasonably high signal-to-noise ratio, and (ii) the bulk viscoelastic response of the microscopic model can be described in terms of a simple mesoscopic constitutive model. The simulated gel response is in fact well described by a mechanical model corresponding to a fractional Kelvin-Voigt model with a single Scott-Blair (or springpot) element and a spring in parallel. By varying the viscous damping and the particle mass used in the microscopic simulations over a wide range of values, we demonstrate the existence of a single master curve for the frequency dependence of the viscoelastic response of the gel that is fully predicted by the constitutive model. By developing a fast and robust protocol for evaluating the linear viscoelastic spectrum of these soft solids, we open the path toward novel multiscale insight into the rheological response for such complex materials.
Need for Laboratory Ecosystems To Unravel the Structures and Functions of Soil Microbial Communities Mediated by Chemistry
Authors: Zhalnina Kateryna , Zengler Karsten , Newman Dianne , Northen Trent R.
Published: July 2018

The chemistry underpinning microbial interactions provides an integrative framework for linking the activities of individual microbes, microbial communities, plants, and their environments. Currently, we know very little about the functions of genes and metabolites within these communities because genome annotations and functions are derived from the minority of microbes that have been propagated in the laboratory.
Epidemiology and outcomes of Clostridium difficile infection among hospitalised patients: results of a multicentre retrospective study in South Africa
Authors: Legenza Laurel , Barnett Susanne , Rose Warren , Bianchini Monica , Safdar Nasia , Coetzee Renier
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Limited data exist on Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) in low-resource settings and settings with high prevalence of HIV. We aimed to determine baseline CDI patient characteristics and management and their contribution to mortality.

Methods

We reviewed adult patients hospitalised with diarrhoea and a C. difficile test result in 2015 from four public district hospitals in the Western Cape, South Africa. The primary outcome measures were risk factors for mortality. Secondary outcomes were C. difficile risk factors (positive vs negative) and CDI treatment.

Results

Charts of patients with diarrhoea tested for C. difficile (n=250; 112 C. difficile positive, 138 C. difficile negative) were reviewed. The study population included more women (65%). C. difficile-positive patients were older (46.5 vs 40.7 years, p<0.01). All-cause mortality was more common in the C. difficile-positive group (29% vs 8%, p<0.0001; HR 2.0, 95% CI 1.1 to 3.6). Tuberculosis (C. difficile positive 54% vs C. difficile negative 32%, p<0.001), 30-day prior antibiotic exposure (C. difficile positive 83% vs C. difficile negative 46%, p<0.001) and prior hospitalisation (C. difficile positive 55% vs C. difficile negative 22%, p<0.001) were also more common in the C. difficile-positive group. C. difficile positive test result (OR 4.7, 95% CI 2.0 to 11.2; p<0.001), male gender (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.1 to 7.2; p=0.031) and tuberculosis (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.0 to 5.0; p=0.038) were independently associated with mortality. Of patients starting treatment, metronidazole was the most common antimicrobial therapy initiated (70%, n=78); 32 C. difficile-positive (29%) patients were not treated.

Conclusion

Patients testing positive for C. difficile are at high risk of mortality at public district hospitals in South Africa. Tuberculosis should be considered an additional risk factor for CDI in populations with high tuberculosis and HIV comorbidity. Interventions for CDI prevention and management are urgently needed.
Randomised controlled feasibility trial of real versus sham repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation treatment in adults with severe and enduring anorexia nervosa: the TIARA study
Authors: Dalton Bethan , Bartholdy Savani , McClelland Jessica , Kekic Maria , Rennalls Samantha J , Werthmann Jessica , Carter Ben , O’Daly Owen G , Campbell Iain C , David Anthony S , Glennon Danielle , Kern Nikola , Schmidt Ulrike
Published: July 2018

Objective

Treatment options for severe, enduring anorexia nervosa (SE-AN) are limited. Non-invasive neuromodulation is a promising emerging intervention. Our study is a feasibility randomised controlled trial of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in individuals with SE-AN, which aims to inform the design of a future large-scale trial.

Design

Double-blind, parallel group, two-arm, sham-controlled trial.

Setting

Specialist eating disorders centre.

Participants

Community-dwelling people with anorexia nervosa, an illness duration of ≥3 years and at least one previous completed treatment.

Interventions

Participants received 20 sessions (administered over 4 weeks) of MRI-guided real or sham high-frequency rTMS to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in addition to treatment-as-usual.

Outcomes

Primary outcomes were recruitment, attendance and retention rates. Secondary outcomes included body mass index (BMI), eating disorder symptoms, mood, quality of life and rTMS safety and tolerability. Assessments were conducted at baseline, post-treatment and follow-up (ie, at 0 month, 1 month and 4 months post-randomisation).

Results

Thirty-four participants (17 per group) were randomly allocated to real or sham rTMS. One participant per group was withdrawn prior to the intervention due to safety concerns. Two participants (both receiving sham) did not complete the treatment. rTMS was safe and well tolerated. Between-group effect sizes of change scores (baseline to follow-up) were small for BMI (d=0.2, 95% CI −0.49 to 0.90) and eating disorder symptoms (d=0.1, 95% CI −0.60 to 0.79), medium for quality of life and moderate to large (d=0.61 to 1.0) for mood outcomes, all favouring rTMS over sham.

Conclusions

The treatment protocol is feasible and acceptable to participants. Outcomes provide preliminary evidence for the therapeutic potential of rTMS in SE-AN. Largest effects were observed on variables assessing mood. This study supports the need for a larger confirmatory trial to evaluate the effectiveness of multi-session rTMS in SE-AN. Future studies should include a longer follow-up period and an assessment of cost-effectiveness.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN14329415; Pre-results.
Publication status of completed registered studies in paediatric appendicitis: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Breil Thomas , Boettcher Michael , Hoffmann Georg F , Ries Markus
Published: July 2018

Objective

Appendicitis is considered the most frequent surgical emergency in children. While the management of paediatric appendicitis is evolving, the precise amount of unpublished completed trials, potentially introducing bias into meta-analyses, is unknown. Controversial issues include the appropriate choice of surgical procedures, criteria for diagnosis of appendicitis, the role of antibiotic treatment and pain management. Selective reporting may introduce bias into evidence-based clinical decision-making, and the current, precise extent of unpublished results in paediatric appendicitis is unknown. We therefore assessed the publication status of completed clinical studies involving children registered on ClinicalTrials.gov.

Design

Cross sectional analysis. STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology criteria were applied for design and analysis.

Setting and participants

ClinicalTrials.gov was queried for completed studies which were matched to publications on ClinicalTrials.gov, PubMed or Google Scholar. If no publication could be identified, principal investigators were contacted.

Interventions/exposure

Observational analysis.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The proportion of published and unpublished studies was calculated. Subgroup analysis included studies on surgical procedures, diagnosis, antibiotic treatment and pain management.

Results

Out of n=52 completed clinical studies involving children with appendicitis, n=33 (63%) were published and n=19 (37%) were unpublished. Eighty-three per cent (n=43/52) of clinical trials assessed the above-listed controversial issues. Diagnostic studies were most rigorously published (91% of trials reported), data on surgical procedures, antibiotic and pain management were less transparent. Sixty-six per cent of interventional studies and 60% of randomised studies were published. Median time-to-publication, for example, the delay between completion of the trial until public availability of the results was 24 (IQR 12–36), range 2–92 months.

Conclusion

Despite the importance of appendicitis in clinical practice for the paediatric surgeon, there remains scientific uncertainty due to unpublished clinical trial results with room for improvement in the future. These data are helpful in framing the shifting paradigms in paediatric appendicitis because it adds transparency to the debate.
Occult blood in faeces is associated with all-cause and non-colorectal cancer mortality
Authors: Libby Gillian , Fraser Callum G , Carey Frank A , Brewster David H , Steele Robert J C
Published: July 2018

Objective

An association between detectable faecal haemoglobin (f-Hb) and both the risk of death from colorectal cancer (CRC) and all-cause mortality has been reported. We set out to confirm or refute this observation in a UK population and to explore the association between f-Hb, as indicated by a positive guaiac faecal occult blood test (gFOBT) result, and different causes of death.

Design

All individuals (134 192) who participated in gFOBT screening in Tayside, Scotland between 29/03/2000 and 29/03/2016 were studied by linking their test result (positive or negative) with mortality data from the National Records of Scotland database and following to 30/03/2016.

Results

Those with a positive test result (n=2714) had a higher risk of dying than those with a negative result, from CRC: HR 7.79 (95% CI 6.13 to 9.89), p<0.0001, (adjusted for, gender, age, deprivation quintile and medication that can cause bleeding) and all non-CRC causes: HR 1.58 (95% CI 1.45 to 1.73), p<0·0001.· In addition, f-Hb detectable by gFOBT was significantly associated with increased risk of dying from circulatory disease, respiratory disease, digestive diseases (excluding CRC), neuropsychological disease, blood and endocrine disease and non-CRC.

Conclusion

The presence of detectable f-Hb is associated with increased risk of death from a wide range of causes.
Responding to the marauding terror attack: the police perspective
Authors: Wheatley Sean , Hollingsworth A C , Greaves I
Published: July 2018

UKpolice forces have had to adapt their tactical approach to the emerging terror threat that now faces the UK. This has led to an evolution in the training, education and conduct of authorised firearms officers and an increased capability in the provision of immediate lifesaving care to injured casualties. This article intends to describe the police response to a marauding terror attack and describes the medical capabilities authorised firearms officers possess in order to educate other emergency service responders to such an event. The challenges of training for a major terrorist event and the benefits of collaborative working with other emergency service personnel are discussed.
Lung lobe torsion in adult and juvenile pugs
Authors: Holmes Andrea Claire , Tivers Mickey , Humm Karen , Adamantos Sophie
Published: July 2018

This cases series of 13 pugs with lung lobe torsion (LLT) is the largest case series of pugs in the literature and the first to compare dogs presenting before and after 12 months of age. Similar to previous case series, the median age of pugs with LLT was 17 months; however six dogs were under 12 months of age (3 of 13 were 11–13 weeks at presentation). There were no differences between the dogs that presented younger or older than 12 months old with respect to sex, neuter status, lung lobe affected, duration and nature of clinical signs, time alive after discharge, and complications. The juvenile onset may suggest that some dogs are inherently at risk of LLT. This is intriguing and important as LLT may not be an intuitive diagnosis in a juvenile brachycephalic animal, and practitioners should be aware of this unusual presentation.
An asymptotic treatment for non-convex fully nonlinear elliptic equations: Global Sobolev and BMO type estimates
Authors: da Silva J. V. , Ricarte G. C.
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we establish global Sobolev a priori estimates for [Formula: see text]-viscosity solutions of fully nonlinear elliptic equations as follows: [Formula: see text] by considering minimal integrability condition on the data, i.e. [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] and a regular domain [Formula: see text], and relaxed structural assumptions (weaker than convexity) on the governing operator. Our approach makes use of techniques from geometric tangential analysis, which consists in transporting “fine” regularity estimates from a limiting operator, the Recession profile, associated to [Formula: see text] to the original operator via compactness methods. We devote special attention to the borderline case, i.e. when [Formula: see text]. In such a scenery, we show that solutions admit [Formula: see text] type estimates for their second derivatives.
Charge generation performance enhancement by size-dependent Cu2GeSe3quantum dot-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Liu Zhou , Peng Zhuoyin , Chen Jianlin , Li Wei , Chen Jian , Ren Yanjie
Published: July 2018

Cu2GeSe3 quantum dot is introduced to instead of non-toxic CuInSe2 as a sensitizer for solar cells, which is employed to enhance the photovoltaic performance. Cu2GeSe3 quantum dots with various sizes are prepared by thermolysis process, which are employed for the fabrication of quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSC) according to assembly linking process. The optical absorption properties of the Cu2GeSe3 quantum dot-sensitized photo-electrodes have been obviously enhanced by the size optimization of quantum dots, which are better than that of CuInSe2-based photo-electrodes. Due to the balance on the deposition quantity and charge transfer property of the quantum dots, 3.9[Formula: see text]nm-sized Cu2GeSe3 QDSSC exhibits the highest current density value and incident photon conversion efficiency response, which result in a higher photovoltaic conversion efficiency than that of CuInSe2 QDSSC. The modulation of Cu2GeSe3 QDs will further improve the performance of photovoltaic devices.
On the nil-graph of ideals of commutative Artinian rings
Authors: Tamizh Chelvam T. , Selvakumar K. , Subbulakshmi P.
Published: July 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be a commutative ring with identity and Nil[Formula: see text] be the ideal consisting of all nilpotent elements of [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text]. The nil-graph of ideals of [Formula: see text] is defined as the graph [Formula: see text] whose vertex set is the set [Formula: see text] and two distinct vertices [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are adjacent if and only if [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we discuss some properties of nil-graph of ideals concerning connectedness, split and claw free. Also we characterize all commutative Artinian rings [Formula: see text] for which the nil-graph [Formula: see text] has genus 2.
An Efficient Algorithm for the 1D Total Visibility-Index Problem and Its Parallelization
Authors: Afshani Peyman , Berg Mark De , Casanova Henri , Karsin Ben , Lambrechts Colin , Sitchinava Nodari , Tsirogiannis Constantinos
Published: July 2018

Let
T
be a terrain and
P
be a set of points on its surface. An important problem in Geographic Information Science (GIS) is computing the
visibility index
of a point
p
on
P
, that is, the number of points in
P
that are visible from
p
. The
total visibility-index
problem asks for the visibility index of
every
point in
P
.

We present the first subquadratic-time algorithm to solve the one-dimensional total-visibility-index problem. Our algorithm uses a geometric dualization technique to reduce the problem to a set of instances of the red--blue line segment intersection counting problem, allowing us to find the total visibility-index in
O
(
n
log
2
n
) time. We implement a naive
O
(
n
2
) approach and four variations of our algorithm: one that uses an existing red--blue line segment intersection counting algorithm and three new approaches that leverage features specific to our problem. Two of our implementations allow for parallel execution, requiring
O
(log
2
n
) time and
O
(
n
log
2
n
) work in the CREW PRAM model.

We present experimental results for both serial and parallel implementations on synthetic and real-world datasets using two hardware platforms. Results show that all variants of our algorithm outperform the naive approach by several orders of magnitude. Furthermore, we show that our special-case red--blue line segment intersection counting implementations out-perform the existing general-case solution by up to a factor 10. Our fastest parallel implementation is able to process a terrain of more than 100 million vertices in under 3 minutes, achieving up to 85% parallel efficiency using 16 cores.
Secure and Fast Encryption (SAFE) with Classical Random Number Generators
Authors: Deng Lih-Yuan , Shiau Jyh-Jen Horng , Lu Henry Horng-Shing , Bowman Dale
Published: July 2018

Pseudo-random number generators (PRNGs) play an important role in both areas of computer simulation and computer security. Currently, there appears to be a huge divide between the types of PRNGs used in these two areas. For PRNGs in computer security applications, the security concern is extremely important. For PRNGs in computer simulation applications, the properties of high-dimensional equi-distribution, efficiency, long period-length, and portability are important. In recent years, there have been many PRNGs proposed in the area of computer simulation satisfying these nice properties. However, most of them are linear generators, thus sharing the same weakness in predictability. The major aim of this article is to propose a general class of secure generators, called SAFE (secure and fast encryption) generators, by properly “mixing” two baseline generators with the aforementioned properties to obtain a secure generator that would inherit these nice properties. Specifically, we propose applying a general mutual-shuffling method to certain linear generators, such as the currently most popular MT19937 generator and large-order multiple recursive generators, as well as outputting certain nonlinear transformations of the generated variates to construct secure PRNGS.
In Vitro Inhibition of α‐Amylase and α‐Glucosidase by Extracts from Psiadia punctulata and Meriandra bengalensis
Authors: Kidane Yosief , Bokrezion Temesgen , Mebrahtu Jimmy , Mehari Mikias , Gebreab Yacob Berhane , Fessehaye Nahom , Achila Oliver Okoth
Published: July 2018

Background. This research assessed the in vitro antidiabetic activity and phytochemical constituents of the traditionally used medicinal plants, Psiadia punctulata and Meriandra bengalensis. Method. The leaves of both plants were subjected to cold extraction method using 70% ethanol and hot Soxhlet extraction using n‐hexane, chloroform, methanol, and distilled water. The extracts were studied for their effect on glucose transport across yeast cells and inhibition of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase enzyme activities. Thin‐layer chromatographic analysis of ethanol extract was also undertaken. Results. The results of yeast glucose uptake assay revealed that extracts from both plants had a maximum increase in glucose uptake at the 25mM glucose concentration with a maximum dose of 2000μg/ml plant extract. The ethanol extract of P. punctulata and aqueous extract of M. bengalensis showed a high activity of 68% and 96%, respectively, at 25mM and 2000μg/ml of glucose and extract concentration. P. punctulata exerted peak inhibition activity of α‐amylase of 37.5 ± 3% mg/dl (IC50 = 0.523 mg/dl) for methanol and distilled water extract at 0.5 mg/dl, respectively. M. bengalensis methanol extract exhibited the highest inhibition activity of 38 ± 8 % mg/dl (IC50 = 0.543 mg/dl) at 0.5 mg/dl. In the α‐glucosidase inhibition assay, the methanolic extract of P. punctulata exhibited the highest inhibitory activity of 17.29 ± 9% mg/dl (IC50 = 0.761 mg/dl) at 0.5mg/dl. The chloroform extract of M. bengalensis had the highest inhibitory activity of 30 ± 5% mg/dl (IC50 = 0.6mg/dl) at 0.5 mg/dL. Phytochemical analysis of the different extracts of P. punctulata and M. bengalensis revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, phytosterols, and carbohydrates. Thin‐layer chromatography analysis of ethanolic extract of both plants indicated presence of 15 and 17 spots for P. punctulata and M. bengalensis respectively. Conclusion. P. punctulata and M. bengalensis extracts have moderate inhibitory activity against pancreatic α‐amylase and relatively low inhibitory activities against α‐glucosidase. The observed effects may be associated with the presence of flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids. Additional in vivo analysis, toxicological studies, isolation, and structural characterization of the phytomolecules identified in this study and molecular docking studies should be undertaken.
Modal Analysis of a New Thermosensitive Actuator Design for Circuit Breakers Based on Mesoscale U-Shaped Compliant Mechanisms
Authors: Ahuett-Garza Horacio , Melecio Juan I. , Orta Pedro
Published: July 2018

A new mesoscale thermosensitive actuator design for circuit breakers based on a U-shaped compliant mechanism was introduced as a potential replacement for bimetal strips in miniature circuit breakers. In a previous study, the response of this design to the thermal fields produced by a steady current flow was analyzed. This article presents a modal analysis of the compliant mechanism. The goal of the analysis is to compare the natural frequencies of the mechanism with the frequency of the magnetic loads caused by the flow of the alternating currents. Simulations with simple beam elements and 3D elements are presented and results are compared with experimental measurements. The study finds that the natural frequency of the mechanism differs by a factor of about 8 with the AC frequency. The conclusion is that the proposed compliant mechanism design’s performance as a thermal actuator will not be affected by the cyclic loads generated by the forces induced by the AC magnetic fields.
Pathological Features of Mitochondrial Ultrastructure Predict Susceptibility to Post-TIPS Hepatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Li Hong-bin , Yue Zhen-dong , Zhao Hong-wei , Wang Lei , Fan Zhen-hua , He Fu-liang , Dong Xiao-qun , Liu Fu-quan
Published: July 2018

Background. Post-TIPS hepatic encephalopathy (PSE) is a complex process involving numerous risk factors; the root cause is unclear, but an elevation of blood ammonia due to portosystemic shunt and metabolic disorders in hepatocytes has been proposed as an important risk factor.Aims.The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of pathological features of mitochondrial ultrastructure on PSE via transjugular liver biopsy at TIPS implantation.Methods. We evaluated the pathological damage of mitochondrial ultrastructure on recruited patients by the Flameng classification system. A score ≤2 (no or low damage) was defined as group A, and a score >2 (high damage level) was defined as group B; routine follow-up was required at 1 and 2 years; the incidence of PSE and multiple clinical data were recorded.Results.A total of 78 cases in group A and 42 in group B completed the study. The incidence of PSE after 1 and 2 years in group B (35.7% and 45.2%, respectively) was significantly higher than that in group A (16.7% and 24.4%, respectively); the 1- and 2-year OR (95% CI) were 2.778 (1.166-6.615) and 2.565 (1.155-5.696), respectively, for groups A and B. Importantly, group B had worse incidence of PSE than group A [P=0.014, hazard ratio (95%CI): 2.172 (1.190-4.678)].Conclusion. Aggressive damage to mitochondrial ultrastructure in liver shunt predicts susceptibility to PSE. The registration number isNCT02540382.
The Pear Aroma in the Austrian Pinot Blanc Wine Variety: Evaluation by Means of Sensorial-Analytical-Typograms with regard to Vintage, Wine Styles, and Origin of Wines
Authors: Philipp Christian , Eder Phillip , Brandes Walter , Patzl-Fischerleitner Elsa , Eder Reinhard
Published: July 2018

The perceived pear aroma in wines was associated with various short- and medium-chain ester compounds. A consumer study confirmed this assumption. In total, eight ester compounds from a series of 100 aromatic substances were associated with the pear aroma. In this study, a valid stable isotope dilution assay headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (SIDA-HS-SPME-GC-MS) method was developed for the analysis of these compounds, and 102 Austrian Pinot blanc wines of vintages 2013–2016 were analysed. They were assessed with regard to vintage and origin influences as well as wine styles. However, an attempt was made to capture the synergies of these compounds for the pear aroma. With the detection of ethyl (E,Z)-2,4-decadienoate and methyl (E)-geranoate, two volatile compounds were measured which had not previously been detected in Austrian wines. The eight analysed esters were perceived very differently. Therefore, specific odour activity values for the various sensations could be calculated with a mathematical combination of the analyses and the results of the sensory studies. A vintage influence on the sensorial descriptor “overripe pear” and a relationship between wine style and total pear aroma were determined.
A New Approach to Approximate Solutions for Nonlinear Differential Equation
Authors: Meftah Safia
Published: July 2018

The question discussed in this study concerns one of the most helpful approximation methods, namely, the expansion of a solution of a differential equation in a series in powers of a small parameter. We used the Lindstedt-Poincaré perturbation method to construct a solution closer to uniformly valid asymptotic expansions for periodic solutions of second-order nonlinear differential equations.
Possible Correlation between Hypomelanosis of Ito and Wilms’ Tumor
Authors: Bello-Germino Daniella , Chhin Rasmey , Tran Thu , Vasylyeva Tetyana L.
Published: July 2018

Hypomelanosis of Ito is a neurocutaneous disorder characterized by skin manifestations in a characteristic pattern associated with musculoskeletal and central nervous system symptoms. Our patient was diagnosed with Wilms’ tumor stage I at age two and was also found to have distinct streaked areas of skin hyper- and hypopigmentation suggestive of Hypomelanosis of Ito. We believe that our patient’s clinical diagnoses of Hypomelanosis of Ito and Wilms’ tumor are interlinked. The connecting factor is yet to be identified. Our patient does not have a deletion of 11p13 associated with a defect in WT1, the Wilms’ tumor suppressor gene. As such, it is quite possible that what made her more susceptible to the development of Wilms’ tumor was her Hypomelanosis of Ito, which is implicated in a number of other organ dysfunctions.
Robust Stability of Nonlinear Diffusion Fuzzy Neural Networks with Parameter Uncertainties and Time Delays
Authors: Rao Ruofeng , Tang Gaozhi , Gong Jiuqi , Wan Xiaoyan , Wu Guanghong , Zhang Qiao , Zhong Shouming
Published: July 2018

In this paper, a class of nonlinear p‐Laplace diffusion BAM Cohen‐Grossberg neural networks (BAM CGNNs) with time delays is investigated. In the case of p > 1 with p ≠ 2, the authors construct novel Lyapunov functional to overcome the mathematical difficulties of nonlinear p‐Laplace diffusion time‐delay model with parameter uncertainties, deriving the LMI‐based robust stability criterion applicable to computer MATLAB LMI toolbox and deleting the boundedness of the amplification functions. And in the case of p = 2, LMI‐based sufficient conditions are also inferred for robust input‐to‐state stability of reaction‐diffusion Markovian jumping BAM CGNNs with the event‐triggered control, which is different from those of many previous related literature. In particular, the role of diffusion can be reflected in newly acquired criteria. Finally, numerical examples verify the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Complexity Study on the Unsteady Flow Field and Aerodynamic Noise of High‐Speed Railways on Bridges
Authors: Su Jufeng , Sun Yamin , Liu Yuyang
Published: July 2018

To study complexity distributions of unsteady flow field and aerodynamic noise of a high‐speed railway on bridges, an aerodynamic noise model of a railway was obtained. Meanwhile, detailed structures such as 6 bogies, 3 air conditioning units, 1 pantograph fairing, and 1 pantograph were considered. Numerical simulation was conducted to flow fields around the high‐speed railway running on the bridge under a crosswind‐free environment, with running speed of 350 km/h. Hence, unsteady flow behavior characteristics of the complete high‐speed railway were obtained. Numerical simulation was conducted to noises of the railway on the bridge in combination with detached eddy simulation and acoustic analogy theory. Meanwhile, the broadband noise model was used for the quantitative analysis on distribution characteristics of the dipole noise source and quadrupole noise source of the high‐speed railway on the bridge. Studied results proved that aerodynamic noise of the railway was caused by eddy shedding and fluid separation. Main noise sources of the high‐speed railway include areas such as pantographs, train head streamline, bogies, windshield, and an air conditioning unit. Maximum sound pressure level and average sound pressure level of the high‐speed railway on the bridge were 2.7 dBA and 2.3 dBA, respectively, more than those of the high‐speed railway on a flat ground. On the bridge, the maximum sound pressure level of the pantograph on the bridge was 3.1 dBA larger than that on the flat ground. In addition, incoming flows of the high‐speed railway on the bridge had greater impacts on aerodynamic noises around the railway compared with those of wake flows. Meanwhile, in directions of incoming flows and wake flows, linear relationship was between the sound pressure levels of noise monitoring points which had different distances from the train head nose and the logarithm of the distances.
The Close Relationship between Large Bowel and Heart: When a Colonic Perforation Mimics an Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Secchi Maria Francesca , Torre Carlo , Dui Giovanni , Virdis Francesco , Podda Mauro
Published: July 2018

Colonoscopic perforation is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication of colonoscopy. Its incidence varies in frequency from 0.016% to 0.21% for diagnostic procedures, but may be seen in up to 5% of therapeutic colonoscopies. In case of extraperitoneal perforation, atypical signs and symptoms may develop. The aim of this report is to raise the awareness on the likelihood of rare clinical features of colonoscopic perforation. A 72-year-old male patient with a past medical history of myocardial infarction presented to the emergency department four hours after a screening colonoscopy with polypectomy, complaining of neck pain, retrosternal oppressive chest pain, dyspnea, and rhinolalia. Right chest wall and cervical subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, pneumoretroperitoneum, and bilateral subdiaphragmatic free air were reported on the chest and abdominal X-rays. The patient was treated conservatively, with absolute bowel rest, total parental nutrition, and broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics. Awareness of the potentially unusual clinical manifestations of retroperitoneal perforation following colonoscopy is crucial for the correct diagnosis and prompt management of colonoscopic perforation. Conservative treatment may be appropriate in patients with a properly prepared bowel, hemodynamic stability, and no evidence of peritonitis. Surgical treatment should be considered when abdominal or chest pain worsens, and when a systemic inflammatory response arises during the conservative treatment period.
Analysis of SO2 Pollution Changes of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region over China Based on OMI Observations from 2006 to 2017
Authors: Wang Zhifang , Zheng Fengjie , Zhang Wenhao , Wang Shutao
Published: July 2018

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) in the planetary boundary layer (PBL) as a kind of gaseous pollutant has a strong effect regarding atmospheric environment, air quality, and climate change. As one of the most polluted regions in China, air quality in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) region has attracted more attention. This paper aims to study the characteristics of SO2 distribution and variation over BTH. Spatial and temporal variations for a long term (2006–2017) over BTH derived from OMI PBL SO2 products were discussed. The temporal trends confirm that the SO2 loading falls from average 0.88 DU to 0.16 DU in the past 12 years. Two ascending fluctuations in 2007 and 2011 appeared to be closely related to the economic stimulus of each five-year plan (FYP). The spatial analysis indicates an imbalanced spatial distribution pattern, with higher SO2 level in the southern BTH and lower in the northern. This is a result of both natural and human factors. Meanwhile, the SO2 concentration demonstrates a decreasing trend with 14.92%, 28.57%, and 27.43% compared with 2006, during the events of 2008 Olympic Games, 2014 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, and 2015 Military Parade, respectively. The improvement indicates that the direct effect is attributed to a series of long-term and short-term control measures, which have been implemented by the government. The findings of this study are desirable to assist local policy makers in the BTH for drawing up control strategies regarding the mitigation of environmental pollution in the future.
Improving Accuracy in the Readout of Resistive Sensor Arrays
Authors: Hidalgo-López José A. , Fernández-Ramos Raquel , Romero-Sánchez Jorge , Martín-Canales José F. , Ríos-Gómez Francisco J.
Published: July 2018

The most efficient way to carry out the reading of a set of resistive sensors is to organize them in an array form. This reduces the number of wires to the sum of the number of rows, M, and columns, N, and reading can be carried out using just M+N multiplexers and a single operational amplifier. The drawback in this procedure is the appearance of crosstalk (the influence of the resistance of some sensors on the measurements of others). Although different proposals have been presented in the literature to reduce this phenomenon, errors in determining the resistance values of each sensor still exist in all the proposals. This article presents a new method to determine these values, which considerably reduces errors without the need for any hardware other than the simplest reading circuits. The method consists of a very fast recursive convergence procedure. The results show that the new proposal outperforms other solutions in the first or second step.
BMX-Mediated Regulation of Multiple Tyrosine Kinases Contributes to Castration Resistance in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Chen Sen , Cai Changmeng , Sowalsky Adam G. , Ye Huihui , Ma Fen , Yuan Xin , Simon Nicholas I. , Gray Nathanael S. , Balk Steven P.
Published: July 2018

Prostate cancer responds to therapies that suppress androgen receptor (AR) activity (androgen deprivation therapy, ADT) but invariably progresses to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). The Tec family nonreceptor tyrosine kinase BMX is activated downstream of PI3K and has been implicated in regulation of multiple pathways and in the development of cancers including prostate cancer. However, its precise mechanisms of action, and particularly its endogenous substrates, remain to be established. Here, we demonstrate that BMX expression in prostate cancer is suppressed directly by AR via binding to the BMX gene and that BMX expression is subsequently rapidly increased in response to ADT. BMX contributed to CRPC development in cell line and xenograft models by positively regulating the activities of multiple receptor tyrosine kinases through phosphorylation of a phosphotyrosine-tyrosine (pYY) motif in their activation loop, generating pYpY that is required for full kinase activity. To assess BMX activity in vivo, we generated a BMX substrate–specific antibody (anti-pYpY) and found that its reactivity correlated with BMX expression in clinical samples, supporting pYY as an in vivo substrate. Inhibition of BMX with ibrutinib (developed as an inhibitor of the related Tec kinase BTK) or another BMX inhibitor BMX-IN-1 markedly enhanced the response to castration in a prostate cancer xenograft model. These data indicate that increased BMX in response to ADT contributes to enhanced tyrosine kinase signaling and the subsequent emergence of CRPC, and that combination therapies targeting AR and BMX may be effective in a subset of patients.

Significance: The tyrosine kinase BMX is negatively regulated by androgen and contributes to castration-resistant prostate cancer by enhancing the phosphorylation and activation of multiple receptor tyrosine kinases following ADT. Cancer Res; 78(18); 5203–15. ©2018 AACR.
A RIPK3-PGE2 Circuit Mediates Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell–Potentiated Colorectal Carcinogenesis
Authors: Yan Guifang , Zhao Huakan , Zhang Qi , Zhou Yu , Wu Lei , Lei Juan , Wang Xiang , Zhang Jiangang , Zhang Xiao , Zheng Lu , Du Guangsheng , Xiao Weidong , Tang Bo , Miao Hongming , Li Yongsheng
Published: July 2018

Receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3) is essential for mucosal repair in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and colorectal cancer. However, its role in tumor immunity is unknown. Here, we report that decreased RIPK3 in colorectal cancer correlates with the accumulation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC). Deficiency of RIPK3 boosted tumorigenesis via accumulation and immunosuppressive activity of MDSCs. Reduction of RIPK3 in MDSC and colorectal cancer cells elicited NFκB-transcribed COX-2, which catalyzed the synthesis of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). PGE2 exacerbated the immunosuppressive activity of MDSCs and accelerated tumor growth. Moreover, PGE2 suppressed RIPK3 expression while enhancing expression of NFκB and COX-2 in MDSCs and colorectal cancer cells. Inhibition of COX-2 or PGE2 receptors reversed the immunosuppressive activity of MDSCs and dampened tumorigenesis. Patient databases also delineated the correlation of RIPK3 and COX-2 expression with colorectal cancer survival. Our findings demonstrate a novel signaling circuit by which RIPK3 and PGE2 regulate tumor immunity, providing potential ideas for immunotherapy against colorectal cancer.

Significance: A novel signaling circuit involving RIPK3 and PGE2 enhances accumulation and immunosuppressive activity of MDSCs, implicating its potential as a therapeutic target in anticancer immunotherapy.

Graphical Abstract: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/78/19/5586/F1.large.jpg. Cancer Res; 78(19); 5586–99. ©2018 AACR.
Catch-Up Growth, Rapid Weight Growth, and Continuous Growth from Birth to 6 Years of Age in Very-Preterm-Born Children
Authors: Toftlund Line Hedegaard , Halken Susanne , Agertoft Lone , Zachariassen Gitte
Published: July 2018

Background: Breastfeeding promotes healthy growth in very-preterm-born infants (VPI), but extra nutritional supply is needed to ensure catch-up growth and brain development. Objectives: To investigate how different types of post-discharge nutrition affect growth until 6 years of age in children born VPI. Methods: This was a 6-year follow-up study of 281 VPI. Median gestational age (GA) was 30 + 0 weeks (range 24–32 weeks). When breastfed at discharge, they were randomized to unfortified human milk (UHM) or fortified human milk (FHM). If not breastfed at discharge, they received a preterm formula (PF). The intervention lasted until 4 months of corrected age (CA). At 6 years CA, their height and weight were measured. Results: A total of 239 children participated in the follow-up. UHM-feeding compared to both PF- and FHM-feeding resulted in a slower but continuous catch-up growth until 6 years of age. Participants born small-for-GA compared to appropriate-for-GA more often demonstrated continuous catch-up growth until 6 years of age (p = 0.018). Rapid weight growth (a change in z score > 1 SD during a short time period) was found to be most pronounced from 34 weeks post-menstrual age to 2 months CA, and especially among those fed PF (p = 0.002 vs. UHM, p = 0.07 vs. FHM). Conclusions: Catch-up growth occurred mainly before discharge, regardless of the feeding group. UHM-fed infants demonstrated catch-up growth that was slower, but extended until 6 years of age. Rapid weight growth was most pronounced shortly after discharge and especially if PF-fed.
DIEAP Flap Breast Reconstruction Followed by Local Recurrence of Breast Cancer
Authors: Huiskes Julia V.M. , Keemers-Gels Mariël E. , Fabré Jan , Strobbe Luc J.A.
Published: July 2018

Local recurrence after an autologous breast reconstruction is uncommon. We describe 2 patients with local recurrence 3 and 9 years, respectively, after mastectomy with DIEAP (deep inferior epigastric artery perforator) flap breast reconstruction. Patients generally present with a palpable mass, pain, or other visible abnormalities. Various imaging techniques are helpful, always completed by biopsy to characterize the tumour. A repeated sentinel node procedure can be useful in staging. The treatment of the local recurrence needs to be determined in a multidisciplinary team consultation.
A violência atmosférica na Luanda de Ondjaki
Authors: Silva Eliano
Published: July 2018

Este artigo se trata de uma análise sobre a violência descrita por Fanon (1997) dentro de um romance do escritor angolano Ondjaki, intitulado Os transparentes (2013). Traçando um paralelo entre a Argélia colonial e a Luanda representada no romance. Em nosso aporte teórico aparecem nomes como Homi Bhabha, Edward Said, Stuart Hall, Paulo Freire dentre outros.
Literatura negra: do direito ao sonho
Authors: Monteiro Deborah
Published: July 2018

A relação dos diferentes grupos sociais com a literatura e a criação de novas literaturas estão ligadas a fatores sociais dos mais diversos. Este artigo tem como objetivo mostrar como as diversas exclusões às quais a população negra brasileira foi submetida criaram barreiras para que literatura fizesse parte da vida da maioria das crianças e jovens negros brasileiros. Essa realidade faz com que o direito humano à literatura, defendido por Antônio Cândido, seja um sonho um tanto mais distante para essa população. De forma que importa aqui refletirmos sobre trajetória de autores que, em alguma medida, superaram as determinações sociais, assim como refletir caminhos para uma educação que inclua de fato a literatura negra na formação dos jovens leitores para que esses tenham assim mais motivos para sonhar.
Perivascular Spaces Volume in Sporadic and Hereditary (Dutch-Type) Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy
Authors: Martinez-Ramirez Sergi , van Rooden Sanneke , Charidimou Andreas , van Opstal Anna Maria , Wermer Marieke , Gurol M. Edip , Terwindt Gisela , van der Grond Jeroen , Greenberg Steven M. , van Buchem Mark , Viswanathan Anand
Published: July 2018

Background and Purpose—

Magnetic resonance imaging visible perivascular spaces in the centrum semiovale (CSO-PVS) have been associated with cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA).We aimed to further confirm this link by evaluating CSO-PVS volume in pathologically-demonstrated sporadic and genetically-demonstrated hereditary forms of the disease.

Methods—

We studied a retrospective hospital-based cohort consisting of 63 individuals aged >55 having brain magnetic resonance imaging and pathological assessment of CAA (mean age, 73.6±8.5; 46% female), and a separate cohort consisting of 26 carriers, and 28 noncarriers of the hereditary cerebral hemorrhage with amyloidosis–Dutch type (mean age, 46.7±12.8; 61.1% female). CSO-PVS volume was quantified on a single magnetic resonance imaging slice using a computer-assisted segmentation method and expressed as the relative volume of the intracranial volume in that particular slice (CSO-PVS relative volume). We compared CSO-PVS relative volume (1) between subjects with and without the disease in both cohorts; (2) between non-CAA, CAA without hemorrhage, and CAA with hemorrhage cases in the sporadic CAA cohort. All variables reaching
P
<0.1 in bivariate analyses were entered in logistic regression models.

Results—

In both sporadic and Dutch cohorts, cases with CAA had significantly higher CSO-PVS relative volume than cases without (median [IQR]: 3.7% [2.5–5.3] versus 1.8% [1.2–2.4],
P
<0.0001; 3.8% [0.6–6.2] versus 0.7% [0.4–1.6],
P
=0.007; respectively). In linear regression models, sporadic CAA was associated with higher CSO-PVS relative volume (
P
=0.008). In the sporadic CAA cohort, compared with non-CAA cases, CSO-PVS relative volume was higher in both CAA with hemorrhage and without hemorrhage (4.4% [2.6–6.1] and 3% [2.4–3.6] versus 1.8% [1.2–2.4],
P
<0.001 and
P
=0.005, respectively). Higher CSO-PVS relative volume was associated with CAA in regression models, both when hemorrhage was present (odds ratio, 2.63; [95% confidence interval, 1.33–5.18];
P
=0.005) and absent (odds ratio, 4.55; [95% confidence interval, 0.98–21.04];
P
=0.05).

Conclusions—

Increased CSO-PVS volume is a consistent magnetic resonance imaging marker of cerebrovascular amyloid deposition and a promising diagnostic tool for sporadic CAA without hemorrhagic manifestations.