bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Investigation into Evolution of Crack and Stress in Residual Coal Pillars under the Influence of Longwall Mining of the Adjacent Underlying Coal Seam
Authors: Wang Xin , Wu Yuechao , Li Xuehua , Liang Shun
Published: February 2019

Longwall mining of the adjacent coal seam with the presence of residual coal pillars overlying the seam can result in abnormal strata pressure and severe overburden failure, which poses a significant threat to mining safety. The threat is mainly manifested in the form of intense coal or rock burst and hazardous interconnection between gobs. This study employed the universal distinct element code (UDEC) to investigate the microscopic failure mechanism of the overlying residual coal pillars under the influence of longwall mining of an adjacent underlying coal seam in Yuanbaowan coal mine, China. Using the Voronoi method, we innovatively visualized the evolution of cracks in residual pillars, revealed the mechanism behind the failure of pillars, and explored the evolution and distribution of abutment stress. Also, strata movement characteristics during underlying panel extraction have been surveyed. Based on the modeling results, effective measures are proposed to ensure safe mining under residual coal pillars. This study might provide a certain reference for safe extraction of multiple seams in Datong Coalfield, China, and also in the central and western Appalachian Basin, United States, where many mining activities are carried out under residual pillars.
Calculation of Natural Frequencies of Retaining Walls Using the Transfer Matrix Method
Authors: Xu Peng , Jiang Guanlu
Published: February 2019

The dynamic response magnitudes of retaining walls under seismic loadings, such as earthquakes, are influenced by their natural frequencies. Resonances can occur when the natural frequency of a wall is close to the loading frequency, which could result in serious damage or collapse. Although field percussion tests are usually used to study the health state of retaining walls, they are complicated and time consuming. A natural frequency equation for retaining walls with tapered wall facings is established in this paper using the transfer matrix method (TMM). The proposed method is validated against the results of numerical simulations and field tests. Results show that fundamental frequencies decrease gradually with wall height; soil elastic modulus exerts a great influence on the fundamental frequency for walls with smaller facing stiffness; fundamental frequencies are smaller for a hinged toe than a fixed toe condition, and this difference is smaller in taller walls.
Characteristic of Magnetic Fluctuation of Underground Passing Pig Labeled with Magnets
Authors: Xu Wei , Guo Zhiyong , Wu Pan , Chen Wenhui
Published: February 2019

During the pigging process, a pig labeled with magnets can be effectively detected by monitoring the magnetic fluctuation (MF) introduced when the pig passes by. In order to analyze the influence of various factors on the MF, the principle for magnetic fluctuation detection (MFD) is described, and a detection model is established here. The influence of model parameters, such as pipeline geometries, geomagnetic characteristics, as well as permeability of pipeline, on the magnetic anomaly distribution along the measured line is analyzed. The study reveals that with the increase in pipeline parameters (thickness, permeability, and outer diameter), the MF detected decreases. The pipeline length will have little influence on the MF. With an increased number of magnets, the MF increases while remaining almost unchanged at two ends of the measuring line. Attention should be paid to the installation of magnets to ensure the consistency of the magnetic moments. With the increase in geomagnetic intensity and declination, the MF will be almost unaffected, while the change of geomagnetic inclination will introduce an obvious change to the MF. In field application, measuring points can be set along and above the pipeline with a certain interval. From the magnetic anomaly measured, it can be determined whether the pig has passed by the point or not.
Association Study of the Caspase Gene Family and Psoriasis Vulgaris Susceptibility in Northeastern China
Authors: Yao Xinyu , Hao Siyu , Yu Pei
Published: February 2019

Background. Abnormal apoptosis of keratinocytes is one of the pathological changes of psoriasis. Caspases (CASPs) are the central engines of apoptosis. Studies to date have shown that some SNPs alter the expression of related genes and lead to changes in disease risk. However, no studies have investigated the associations between gene polymorphisms and the risk of psoriasis in Han population in northeast China. Therefore, we conducted a case-control study to explore this question in Han population of northeastern China. Methods. 540 patients with PsV and 612 healthy age- and sex-matched controls were enrolled in this study. We determined the genotypes of 17 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 11 genes of caspase family by the improved multiplex ligation detection reaction (iMLDR) method. A model-based single SNP frequentist test and haplotype association studies were performed to evaluate the association between SNPs and PsV. Results. In the single SNP tests, rs6704688 in CASP8 was significantly associated with psoriasis vulgaris (PsV) in Han population of northeastern China (P = 0.0169, P’ = 0.0179 under the additive model; P = 0.0126, P’ = 0.0149 under the heterozygous model). In haplotype analyses, the CASP7 haplotype GC was found to be associated with PsV risk (case group versus control group, 47.2% versus 54.4%, respectively, p = 0.0149). Conclusions. Our study presented that the gene polymorphisms of CASP7 and CASP8 were significantly associated with PsV in Han population of northeastern China, which implied the functional relationship between PsV and caspase genes. CASP8 and CASP7 SNPs could be new potential biomarkers for risk stratification and prevention of PsV.
Acute Kidney Failure in a Young African American Male
Authors: Nguyen Thuan V. , Bader Nada M. , Sidhu Harpreet , Cadacio Caprice , Mendoza Susana M. , Pham Phuong Thu T. , Pham Phuong Chi T.
Published: February 2019

Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a condition characterized by chronic inflammatory and fibrotic changes in the retroperitoneum that can lead to serious complications including kidney failure, mesenteric and limb ischemia, and deep venous thrombosis among others. Affected individuals may present with nonspecific symptomology that would require a high clinical index of suspicion for prompt diagnosis. We herein discuss a case of a young African-American man with recurrent deep venous thrombosis who presents with a 4-week history of constant aching pain of abdomen and back and kidney failure. Initial noncontrast computed tomogram (CT) only revealed mild bilateral hydroureteronephrosis with inflammatory changes but without obvious mass or lymphadenopathy. At the insistence of the renal consulting team to rule out RPF, a CT-urogram was performed which revealed an infiltrative mass encasing the aorta, inferior vena cava, and common iliac vessels. Laparoscopic biopsy revealed dense fibroadipose tissue, lymphocytic aggregates, focal scattered IgG4-positive plasma cells, and fibrin deposition. Patient underwent bilateral nephrostomy placement and empirical corticosteroid therapy with resolution of kidney failure. Our case illustrates a classic presentation of RPF with relatively benign findings on noncontrast CT that could have been missed if clinicians did not keep a high index of suspicion for the condition.
Quantitative Precursory Information of Weak Shocking Failures of Composite Soft Roof
Authors: Wang Lihua , Zhao Zenghui , Tian Zhongxi , Sun Wei
Published: February 2019

To reveal the mechanism of weak roof shocking in mine roadway arranged in weakly consolidated soft rock strata commonly observed in western China, a bearing system of composite roof composed of weakly consolidated soft rocks and coal layers was proposed. Then, theoretical analysis and numerical calculation were applied for instability failures of the mass bearing system with strong body and weak body. Eventually, precursory information and criteria of instability failures of the bearing system were developed. The main conclusions obtained are as follows: (1) as the elastic energy released at the postpeak failure stage of weak body contributes to system failures, the equivalent stiffness for system failures consists of the stiffness of strong body and the deterioration stiffness of weak body at softening stage; (2) during the loading process of the two‐body system, isochronous sudden jumps of the deformation rate in either body can be regarded as the precursory information of weak impact failures; (3) the frequency of sudden jumps of deformation rate is significantly related to the stiffness, indicating that weak impact failures are readily observed in composite soft roof as stiffnesses of weakly consolidated soft rocks and coal seam are close to each other. This study provides references for prevention and control of weak shocking disasters of composite roofs in western China.
Less Is More: Genome Reduction and the Emergence of Cooperation—Implications into the Coevolution of Microbial Communities
Authors: Bosi Emanuele , Mascagni Flavia
Published: February 2019

Organisms change to adapt to the environment in which they live, evolving with coresiding individuals. Classic Darwinism postulates the primal importance of antagonistic interactions and selfishness as a major driver of evolution, promoting an increase of genomic and organism complexities. Recently, advancements in evolutionary ecology reshaped this notion, showing how leakiness in biological functions favours the adaptive genome reduction, leading to the emergence of codependence patterns. Microbial communities are complex entities exerting a gargantuan influence on the environment and the biology of the eukaryotic hosts they are associated with. Notwithstanding, we are still far from a comprehension of the ecological and evolutionary mechanisms governing the community dynamics. Here, we review the implications of genome streamlining into the unfolding of codependence within microbial communities and how this translates to an understanding of ecological patterns underlying the emerging properties of the community.
Tension Pneumocephalus Induced by Nasal Cannula
Authors: Xiao Hao , Chen Tony , Tagg Andrew
Published: February 2019

Tension pneumocephalus is a rare medical emergency. Spontaneous atraumatic tension pneumocephalus is reported in cases of neoplasm, Valsalva manoeuvres, and air cell hyperpneumatization. For the first time, we describe a case of atraumatic tension pneumocephalus induced by nasal cannula in a patient with ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Our case report discusses the possible mechanisms of the tension pneumocephalus in this case.
MoDeSuS: A Machine Learning Tool for Selection of Molecular Descriptors in QSAR Studies Applied to Molecular Informatics
Authors: Martínez María Jimena , Razuc Marina , Ponzoni Ignacio
Published: February 2019

The selection of the most relevant molecular descriptors to describe a target variable in the context of QSAR (Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship) modelling is a challenging combinatorial optimization problem. In this paper, a novel software tool for addressing this task in the context of regression and classification modelling is presented. The methodology that implements the tool is organized into two phases. The first phase uses a multiobjective evolutionary technique to perform the selection of subsets of descriptors. The second phase performs an external validation of the chosen descriptors subsets in order to improve reliability. The tool functionalities have been illustrated through a case study for the estimation of the ready biodegradation property as an example of classification QSAR modelling. The results obtained show the usefulness and potential of this novel software tool that aims to reduce the time and costs of development in the drug discovery process.
Hemobilia following Percutaneous Liver Biopsy in the Setting of Malignancy (with Video): Diagnosis and Management of a Rare Cause of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Pabla B. , Porayko M.
Published: February 2019

A 57-year-old gentleman with a past medical history of well-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (NET) with liver metastases was transferred to our hospital with abdominal pain. He underwent percutaneous liver biopsy three days prior to admission as a part of a study protocol for treatment of his progressive NET. He developed gastrointestinal bleeding and was found to have a distended gallbladder filled with high density material on ultrasound. During initial upper endoscopy, it was noted that he had blood emanating from the duodenal papilla consistent with hemobilia and he was ultimately diagnosed with post-liver biopsy hemorrhage. At first, he was managed conservatively with supportive care, but bleeding persisted resulting in the need for arterial embolization as a more effective treatment modality. Hemobilia is a rare entity and in the modern era it is most commonly the result of iatrogenic injury. Appropriate management depends on the underlying etiology with most cases resolving with conservative management. The avoidance of unnecessary surgery and the use of embolization are key principles in management.
A Novel Exact Solution of the 2+1-Dimensional Radial Dirac Equation for the Generalized Dirac Oscillator with the Inverse Potentials
Authors: Zhao ZiLong , Long ZhengWen , Zhang MengYao
Published: February 2019

The generalized Dirac oscillator as one of the exact solvable models in quantum mechanics was introduced in 2+1-dimensional world in this paper. What is more, the general expressions of the exact solutions for these models with the inverse cubic, quartic, quintic, and sixth power potentials in radial Dirac equation were further given by means of the Bethe ansatz method. And finally, the corresponding exact solutions in this paper were further discussed.
An Agent‐Based Model of a Pricing Process with Power Law, Volatility Clustering, and Jumps
Authors: Shi Yu , Luo Qixuan , Li Handong
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we propose a new model of security price dynamics in order to explain the stylized facts of the pricing process such as power law distribution, volatility clustering, jumps, and structural changes. We assume that there are two types of agents in the financial market: speculators and fundamental investors. Speculators use past prices to predict future prices and only buy assets whose prices are expected to rise. Fundamental investors attach a certain value to each asset and buy when the asset is undervalued by the market. When the expectations of agents are exogenously driven, that is, entirely shaped by exogenous news, then they can be modeled as following a random walk. We assume that the information related to the two types of agents in the model will arrive randomly with a certain probability distribution and change the viewpoint of the agents according to a certain percentage. Our simulated results show that this model can simulate well the random walk of asset prices and explain the power‐law tail distribution of returns, volatility clustering, jumps, and structural changes of asset prices.
Gastroprotective Effects of Paeonia Extract Mixture HT074 against Experimental Gastric Ulcers in Rats
Authors: Kim Young-Sik , Park Hyo Jin , Kim Hocheol , Song Jungbin , Lee Donghun
Published: February 2019

Background.Paeonia extract mixture HT074 is a standardized multiherbal mixture comprising extracts fromInula britannicaflowers andPaeonia lactifloraroots, which are used to treat digestive disorders in traditional Korean medicine. This study was focused on elucidating the underlying mechanisms of the gastroprotective effects of HT074 in different gastric ulcer models.Methods.Gastric lesions were induced in rats by an HCl/EtOH solution, water immersion-restraint stress (WIRS), and indomethacin. Gastric secretions were studied in pylorus-ligated rats, while mucus secretions were assessed by measuring alcian blue-binding capacity of mucus in the rat model of HCl/EtOH-induced gastric ulcer. Additionally, the involvement of nitric oxide (NO) and sulfhydryl compounds in HT074-mediated mucosal protection was elucidated using their inhibitors, i.e.,NG-nitro- L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) andN-ethylmaleimide (NEM), respectively. Furthermore, the effects on indomethacin-induced cell death and prostaglandin E2(PGE2) levels were assessed in AGS cells.Results.Oral administration of HT074 significantly decreased gastric lesions induced by HCl/EtOH, WIRS, and indomethacin. Furthermore, it significantly decreased the volume, acidity, and total acidity of gastric juice in pylorus-ligated rats and increased the alcian blue-stained gastric mucus in HCl/EtOH-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Pretreatment with NEM abolished the gastroprotective effects of HT074, while L-NAME did not. In AGS cells, HT074 significantly reduced indomethacin-induced cell death and increased the PGE2levels.Conclusions.These findings suggest that HT074 has gastroprotective effects against various ulcerogens, including HCl/EtOH, immersion stress, and NSAIDs. These effects are attributed to the inhibition of gastric secretions and preservation of the gastric mucosal barrier by increased mucus production, which is partially mediated through endogenous sulfhydryl compounds and PGE2. Based on these findings, we propose that HT074 may be a promising therapeutic agent for gastritis and gastric ulcer.
Microbiota Landscape of Gut System of Guppy Fish (Poecilia reticulata) Plays an Outstanding Role in Adaptation Mechanisms
Authors: Kayath Christian Aimé , Ibala Zamba Armel , Goma-Tchimbakala Joseph , Mamonékéné Victor , Mombo Makanga Gloire Moniceth , Lebonguy Aimé Augustin , Nguimbi Etienne
Published: February 2019

Microbial consortium that is present in fish gut systems works together to achieve unknown specific roles. Here, we collected guppy fish from hydrocarbon- and trace metal-contaminated wastewater to assess the relationships between gut microbiota and host fish adaptation. Targeted genes and 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing have been used to identify gut bacteria of guppies. Mineral-conditioned medium contributes to identify bacteria with the ability to grow and/or to tolerate hydrocarbon and trace metals. Additionally, trace metals’ tolerance minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of microbiota was evaluated. We first isolated bacteria from the gut system, and we showed thatBacillusspp.,Staphylococcusspp.,Shigellaspp.,Salmonellaspp,Pseudomonasspp.,Citrobacterspp.,Salmonella entericassp.arizonaesp.,Enterobacterspp, andAcinetobacterspp. are part of guppy gut microbiota. Some representative species are able to degrade and/or tolerate gasoline and/or diesel fuel hydrocarbons. Tolerance to trace metals was observed in Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. We showed that minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of some microbiota isolated from gut systems has been found including for mercury (Hg) between 2 and 4‰, cobalt (Co) Co (2 and 5‰), zinc (Zn) (9 and 18‰), and plomb (Pb) (22 and 27‰). Zn and Pb were the trace metals for which the rate of tolerance was significantly higher. Finally, we showed that cytochrome c oxidase is not interfering in presence of trace metals. The working consortium showed that bacteria should work together to achieve their best.
Intestinal Obstruction due to Bezoar in Elderly Patients: Risk Factors and Treatment Results
Authors: Altintoprak Fatih , Gemici Eyup , Yildiz Yasin Alper , Yener Uzunoglu Mustafa , Kivilcim Taner
Published: February 2019

Purpose. Bezoars are foreign particles from the accumulation of indigestible materials in the gastrointestinal system and a rare cause of mechanical intestinal obstruction. We aimed at investigating differences in risk factors for the development of intestinal obstruction associated with bezoar in elderly patients.Methods. Hospital records of patients who underwent surgery associated with phytobezoar between January 2004 and May 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. Patients were divided into two groups [<65 years (Group 1) and ≥65 years (Group 2)]. Data were examined regarding presence of comorbidity, history of abdominal surgery, operation time, bezoar site, surgical technique, length of hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality.Results. Of 121 patients enrolled, 48 (39.7%) were male and 73 (60.3%) were female (range: 24-86 years). Group 1 consisted of 69 patients aged < 65, while Group 2 consisted of 52 patients aged ≥ 65. Comorbidity was reported in 52 (42.9%) patients (mostly diabetes mellitus, 20.7%), while 60 patients (49.6%) had history of abdominal surgery (mostly peptic ulcer, 27.3%). No statistical differences were found between the two groups in terms of sex, bezoar site, surgical technique preferred, history of abdominal surgical intervention, pre- and postoperative CT examination, morbidity rates, and length of hospitalization. But, ratio of peptic ulcer operations history, presence of total comorbidity, and time of surgery decision was higher in Group 2 patients.Conclusion. In bezoar-related intestinal obstruction, duration and outcome of treatment are not affected by age distribution. Possibility of bezoar should primarily be considered in elderly patients with history of peptic ulcer operation.
Mechanical Properties Optimization of Friction Stir Welded Lap Joints in Aluminium Alloy
Authors: Viscusi Antonio , Astarita Antonello , Prisco Umberto
Published: February 2019

This work focuses on the influence of the rotational and travel speed on the strength of AA 2024 T3 friction stir welded lap joints. Tensile tests were carried out on minispecimens extracted from different welding zones. A central composite design was applied to identify the relative importance of the variable factors’ effects and their interaction on yield/ultimate strength and elongation for both the heat affected-zone (HAZ) and nugget zone. Surface methods and gradient algorithms were used to optimize the yield strength of the joints. Shear and microhardness tests were executed to achieve a more complete mechanical characterization.
An Insider Threat Detection Approach Based on Mouse Dynamics and Deep Learning
Authors: Hu Teng , Niu Weina , Zhang Xiaosong , Liu Xiaolei , Lu Jiazhong , Liu Yuan
Published: February 2019

In the current intranet environment, information is becoming more readily accessed and replicated across a wide range of interconnected systems. Anyone using the intranet computer may access content that he does not have permission to access. For an insider attacker, it is relatively easy to steal a colleague’s password or use an unattended computer to launch an attack. A common one-time user authentication method may not work in this situation. In this paper, we propose a user authentication method based on mouse biobehavioral characteristics and deep learning, which can accurately and efficiently perform continuous identity authentication on current computer users, thus to address insider threats. We used an open-source dataset with ten users to carry out experiments, and the experimental results demonstrated the effectiveness of the approach. This approach can complete a user authentication task approximately every 7 seconds, with a false acceptance rate of 2.94% and a false rejection rate of 2.28%.
High-Risk Indicators of Renal Involvement in Primary Sjogren’s Syndrome: A Clinical Study of 1002 Cases
Authors: Luo Jing , Huo Yu-Wei , Wang Jian-Wu , Guo Hui
Published: February 2019

Objective. A retrospective analysis of clinical characteristics and immunological manifestations of primary Sjogren’s syndrome (pSS) patients with or without renal involvement was conducted in order to elucidate the potential risk factors of renal damage in pSS and evaluate the condition.Methods. A total of 1002 patients, who fulfilled the 2002 classification criteria for pSS from the Second Affiliated Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, were enrolled in the cross-sectional study. Clinical, immunological, and histological characteristics were compared between pSS patients with and without renal involvement, and potential risk factors of renal involvements in pSS patients were examined by multivariate analysis.Results. Among these pSS patients, there were 162 cases (16.17%) with and 840 cases (83.83%) without renal damage. Serious edema of both lower limbs, interstitial nephritis, and renal tubular acidosis were found in the pSS with renal damage group. Compared with simple pSS patients, the levels of creatinine, cystatin C, and alpha-1-microglobulin (α1-MG) in the pSS with renal damage group were significantly increased. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P<0.05). The AUC of the combination of creatinine andα1-MG and creatinine,α1-MG, and creatinine was statistically larger than that of creatinine, and the biomarker of the biggest AUC is the combination of creatinine andα1-MG.Conclusion. The main clinical manifestations of pSS with renal damage were edema of the lower limbs, interstitial nephritis, and renal tubular acidosis. Creatinine andα1-MG are effective indicators for renal function in pSS, which may provide a better understanding for clinical decision-making.
Analysis of Vibration Response Law of Multistory Building under Tunnel Blasting Loads
Authors: Huo Runke , Li Shuguang , Song Zhanping , Fujii Yoshiaki , Lei Shan , Mao Jianchao , Tian Sisi , Miao Zizhen
Published: February 2019

This paper takes the Dizong tunnel engineering as its background. Combined with the on‐site monitoring data, the wavelet packet program based on MATLAB was compiled to study the vibration response of the four‐story masonry building in a typical southwestern mountainous area of China under the blasting load. The results showed that the maximum particle velocity increased to the 3rd floor and attenuation occurred on the 4th floor. The particle velocity in the z‐direction was the largest and should be paid attention. The dominant frequency of the building showed a trend from high frequency to low frequency, the duration became short, and the acceleration decreased to the 4th floor. With the increase of the building floor, the main frequency domain of the building decreased and then gradually tended to the low‐frequency domain. The high‐frequency particle velocity gradually decreased, gathered to the low frequency, and developed from the dispersed multiband to the concentrated low‐frequency band. The total energy value of vibration increased to the 3rd floor and then decreased to the 4th floor. The energy of the building was between 0 and 171.6 Hz. The higher the floor was, the more concentrated the energy was in the low‐frequency domain.
Evaluation of EBV- and HCMV-Specific T Cell Responses in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Patients Using a Normalized Enzyme-Linked Immunospot (ELISPOT) Assay
Authors: Cassaniti Irene , Cavagna Lorenzo , Calarota Sandra A. , Adzasehoun Kodjo Messan Guy , Comolli Giuditta , Montecucco Carlomaurizio , Baldanti Fausto
Published: February 2019

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with a complex etiology. Opportunistic viral pathogens, such as human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), are particularly relevant. The role of the T cell response in SLE has not been deeply studied; we investigated the role of HCMV- and EBV-specific T cell responses in SLE patients also in relation to their pharmacological immunosuppressive status. PBMCs from 70 SLE patients and 50 healthy controls were stimulated with EBV- and HCMV-specific antigens, and IFN-γ-secreting T cells were quantified. We observed that both EBV- and HCMV-specific T cell responses were significantly lower in SLE patients compared with healthy subjects. We reported decreased EBV- and HCMV-specific T cell responses among medium-high immunosuppressed patients compared to low immunosuppressed patients. Immunosuppressive level could exert a role in the control of herpesviruses reactivation, even if the immunosuppressive condition of SLE remains the driving cause of skewed virus-specific T cell response.
HeucheraCreme Brulee and Mahogany Medicinal Value under Water Stress and Oligosaccharide (COS) Treatment
Authors: Elansary Hosam O. , Abdel-Hamid Amal M. E. , Mahmoud Eman A. , Al-Mana Fahed A. , El-Ansary Diaa O. , Zin El-Abedin Tarek K.
Published: February 2019

Food borne pathogens cause serious human illnesses and diseases and their control using natural bioactive compounds becomes essential for the progress of agricultural and food industries. Developing novel tools to enhance the medicinal values of traditional horticultural medicinal crops is one of the promising methods for achieving food borne pathogens control. In this study, oligosaccharide water solutions were applied toHeucheraCreme Brulee and Mahogany subjected to a normal irrigation interval (2 days) or to prolonged irrigation intervals (6 days) for 6 weeks. Plant morphological, physiological, and metabolic markers associated with the bioactivity of leaf extracts against selected microbes. Oligosaccharide-treated plants showed significant increases in all morphological parameters during normal and prolonged irrigation intervals as compared to those of the controls. Morphological improvement associated with a significant increase in chlorophyll, carbohydrates, proline, K, Ca, phenols, and free and total ascorbate and antioxidants. Superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase activities were higher, while H2O2accumulated to a lower extent in oligosaccharide-treated plants. These morphological and metabolic changes associated with increased antibacterial and antifungal activities of leaf extracts and their activities were comparable to antibiotics and antifungal agents (minimum inhibitory concentrations values were 0.5 -0.20 mg−1mL for bacteria and 0.08 -0.20 mg−1mL for fungi in Mahogany). The application of oligosaccharide and/or water stress might be of great value for producing natural bioactive compounds for food borne pathogens control.
Prevalence of Bacterial Urinary Tract Infections and Associated Factors among Patients Attending Hospitals in Bushenyi District, Uganda
Authors: Odoki Martin , Almustapha Aliero Adamu , Tibyangye Julius , Nyabayo Maniga Josephat , Wampande Eddie , Drago Kato Charles , Agwu Ezera , Bazira Joel
Published: February 2019

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the major causes of morbidity and comorbidities in patients with underlying conditions, and it accounts for the majority of the reasons for hospital visit globally. Sound knowledge of factors associated with UTI may allow timely intervention that can easily bring the disease under control. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of UTI by isolating and characterizing the different bacterial etiological agents and to evaluate the factors associated with UTI. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 267, clean catch midstream urine (MSU) samples were collected aseptically and analyzed using standard microbiology methods. Data for the factors associated with UTI were obtained by use of questionnaires and standard laboratory tests for selected underlying conditions. The study revealed 86/267 (32.2%) UTI prevalence among patients attending hospitals in Bushenyi District, Uganda. Escherichia coli was the most prevalent bacterial uropathogen with 36/86 (41.9%) followed by Staphylococcus aureus 27/86 (31.4%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 10/86 (11.6%), Klebsiella oxytoca 6/86 (7.0%), Proteus mirabilis 3/86 (3.5%), Enterococcus faecalis 3/86 (3.5%), and Proteus vulgaris 1/86 (1.2%). This study has demonstrated that age ≤19 years, female gender, married individuals, genitourinary tract abnormalities, diabetes, hospitalization, indwelling catheter <6 days, and indwelling catheter >6 days had statistically significant relationships (p<0.05) with UTI. Screening for UTI in hospitalized patients, female gender, married individuals, genitourinary tract abnormalities, indwelling catheter, and diabetics should be adopted.
Stability Analysis of a Nonlinear Coupled Vibration Model in a Tandem Cold Rolling Mill
Authors: Lu Xing , Sun Jie , Li Guangtao , Wang Zhenhua , Zhang Dianhua
Published: February 2019

Mill chatter in tandem cold rolling mill is a major rejection to the quality and production of the strips. In most mill vibration models, either the roll mass is usually limited to vibrate in vertical direction and vertical‐horizontal directions, or the multiple rolls system is simplified to a single mass system. However, the torsional chatter is also a typical type of mill chatter, and the presence of intermediate roll and backup roll will affect the overall vibration of the mill structure system. In this paper, a newly cold rolling mill vibration model coupled with the dynamic rolling processing model and nonlinear vibration model is proposed with the consideration of dynamic coupling and nonlinear characteristics of the rolling process, multiroll equilibrium, and roll movement in both vertical‐horizontal‐torsional directions. By using Hopf bifurcation theorem and Routh–Hurwitz determinant, the existence of the Hopf bifurcation point of the mill vibration system and bifurcation characteristics are analyzed. At last, the influence of different rolling conditions on the stability of the coupled mill system is investigated, and these results can also be used to design an optimum rolling schedule and determine the appearance of mill chatter under certain rolling conditions.
Toeplitz Operator and Carleson Measure on Weighted Bloch Spaces
Authors: Zhang Yanhua
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we consider Toeplitz operator acting on weighted Bloch spaces. Meanwhile, the inclusion map from weighted Bloch spaces into tent space is also investigated.
Improved Quality of Corn Silage When Combining Cellulose-Decomposing Bacteria andLactobacillus buchneriduring Silage Fermentation
Authors: Zhang Fanfan , Wang Xuzhe , Lu Weihua , Li Feifei , Ma Chunhui
Published: February 2019

This study aimed to investigate the effects of the combined use of cellulose-decomposing bacteria (CDB) and heterolactic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) on corn silage fermentation. Fresh maize was treated with heterolactic LAB or CDB combined with heterolactic LAB inoculants or without any treatment. Chemical and microbiological analyses were conducted at specific times after ensiling. A comprehensive value evaluation was conducted using the principal component analysis model. Although all treatments significantly affected the microorganism numbers during fermentation, the numbers of aerobic bacteria, LAB, yeast, and molds in the groups with combined CDB and LAB were significantly higher than those in the group with LAB only (P< 0.05). All treatments regulated the silage CO2production. Each treatment had different effects on the nutrient degradation rate. Based on a comprehensive evaluation, the CDB and heterolactic LAB combination had the best effect on the ensiling process in improving the quality and feed value of corn silage.
A Case Presentation of a Patient with Microsatellite Instability and BRAF Mutant Metastatic Colon Cancer and Bibliography Update
Authors: Thomopoulou K. , Tzardi M. , Mavroudis D. , Souglakos I.
Published: February 2019

This is a case of a patient who presented to the emergency department with acute abdominal pain due to bowel obstruction. An extended right hemicolectomy with ileosigmoid anastomosis due to an obstructing mass on the splenic flexure was urgently performed. During operation, liver and peritoneal lesions were detected and samples were also sent for histological analysis. Pathology report was consistent with poorly differentiated mucinous adenocarcinoma with signet ring cells; peritoneal lesions were confirmed histologically as metastatic. Genetic testing revealed the BRAFV600E mutation and mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR). After progressing on 1st line chemotherapy, the patient has a continuing and long-lasting partial response to 2nd line treatment with pembrolizumab.
AOCS Requirements and Practical Limitations for High-Speed Communications on Small Satellites
Authors: Aguado-Agelet Fernando , Villa Andrés Eduardo , Arias-Acuña Marcos , Díaz-Otero Francisco Javier
Published: February 2019

In recent years, an increasing number of countries have shown a growing interest in developing their indigenous space capacity building through national small satellite programs. These satellites, which were initially focused on educational and training missions, currently are more scientific and operational-oriented. Thus, small satellite missions are being considered not only as educational tools but also as technological demonstrators or, even, mature enough for commercial and scientific missions, which might generate a huge amount of data to be transmitted to the ground segment. Therefore, an increasing demand on channel capacity will be needed for downloading the generated housekeeping and scientific data for missions based on small satellites. This paper analyses the communication subsystem of a real Cubesat. The influence of geometrical parameters is rigorously calculated both in the signal-to-noise ratio and in the capacity to transmit information. Subsequently, which parameters of the radio link can be modified to increase the transmission capacity, including the pointing requirements and its practical implementation, is studied. Finally, and as a future line, the technical feasibility of using optical links on small satellites that might greatly increase the transmission capacity, including the satellite pointing problems that presents, is presented. In conclusion, this paper presents a rigorous calculation in different frequency bands of the signal-to-noise ratio and the pointing accuracy that is needed to achieve the maximum transmission speed from the satellite to the ground station, and therefore the requirements that the Attitude and Orbital Control Systems (AOCS) must have, as well as the limitations of current systems.
Imaging Diagnosis of Transient Ischemic Attack in Clinic and Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Yao Qigu , Zhang Lincheng , Zhou Jing , Li Min , Jing Weifeng , Li Xiaohong , Han Jin , He Lan , Zhang Yuyan
Published: February 2019

Neuroimaging plays a pivotal role in Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA). Generally, clinicians focus on the specific changes in morphology and function, but the diagnosis of TIA often depends on imaging evidence. Whereas Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is concerned with the performance of clinical symptoms, they began to use imaging methods to diagnose TIA. CT and MRI are the recommended modality to diagnose TIA and image ischemic lesions. In addition, Transcranial Doppler sonography (TCD) and Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) are two acceptable alternatives for diagnosing TIA patients. This article elaborates the update of imaging modalities in clinic and the development of imaging modalities in TCM. Besides, multiple joint imaging technologies also will be evaluated whether enhanced diagnostic yields availably.
Impairment on Cardiopulmonary Function after Marathon: Role of Exhaled Nitric Oxide
Authors: Sierra Ana Paula , Oliveira-Junior Manoel Carneiro , Almeida Francine Maria , Benetti Marino , Oliveira Rodrigo , Felix Soraia Nogueira , Genaro Isabella Santos , Romanholo Beatriz Mangueira Saraiva , Ghorayeb Nabil , Kiss Maria Augusta Peduti Dal Molin , Cury-Boaventura Maria Fernanda , Pesquero João Bosco , Vieira Rodolfo Paula
Published: February 2019

Background. The endurance exercise is capable of inducing skeletal muscle, heart, and respiratory fatigue, evidenced by morphofunctional cardiac changes, release of myocardial injury biomarkers, and reduction of maximal voluntary ventilation and oxygen consumption (VO2) at peak exercise. Purpose. The aim of this study was to investigate whether marathoners present cardiac fatigue after marathon and whether it correlates with pulmonary levels of exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) and pulmonary inflammation. Methods. 31 male marathoners, age 39±9 years, were evaluated by cardiopulmonary exercise test three weeks before and between three and 15 days after a marathon; eNO analysis and spirometry were evaluated before, immediately after, and 24 and 72 hours after the marathon, and sputum cellularity and cytokine level were assessed before and after the marathon. Results. Marathon induced an increase in the percentage of macrophages, neutrophils (from 0.65% to 4.28% and 6.79% to 14.11%, respectively), and epithelial cells and a decrease in cytokines in induced sputum, followed by an increase in eNO concentration (20±11 to 35±19 ppb), which presented a significant reduction 24 and 72 hours after marathon (9±12 e 12±9 ppb, p<0.05). We observed a decrease in the spirometry parameters in all time points assessed after the marathon (p<0.05) as well as in cardiopulmonary capacity, evidenced by a reduction in VO2 and ventilation peaks (57±6 to 55±6 mL·min-1·Kg-1 and 134±19 to 132±18 Lpm, respectively, p<0.05). Finally, we observed a negative correlation between the decrease in forced expiratory volume and decrease in eNO 24 and 72 hours after marathon (r=−0.4, p=0.05). Conclusion. Reduction in eNO bioavailability after marathon prevents the reduction in cardiopulmonary capacity induced by acute inflammatory pattern after marathon.
Design and Simulation of a PV System Operating in Grid-Connected and Stand-Alone Modes for Areas of Daily Grid Blackouts
Authors: Omar Moien A. , Mahmoud Marwan M.
Published: February 2019

The electricity in Gaza, Palestine, is limited and scheduled for 4-10 hours per day due to political reasons. This status represents a real problem for different sectors. This paper presents an effective solution especially for the energy supply problem in the residential sector by using an unconventional PV system which operates in stand-alone and grid-connected modes. The system includes a storage battery block with a proper capacity to secure for continuous power supply of a residential house with a daily energy load of 10 kWh. It was found that an unconventional PV system of 3.2 kWp and a storage battery block of 19.2 kWh will be able to cover the total daily energy demands of the house including the outlined electricity cutoff hours. The design of this system and specifics of its components are presented in this paper. The system was simulated by Matlab software, where the daily load curve, grid cutoff hours, and the monthly solar radiation are considered. The obtained simulation results show that the produced PV energy exceeds the load demands during nine months of the year, and thereby, a high battery state of charge (SOC) in the range of 73-84% is achieved. During the three months of the lowest solar radiation (Dec.-Feb.), the produced PV energy is equal to the load demand while the battery state of charge varies in the range of 40-49% which verifies the appropriateness of the proposed PV system. The daily energy yield of the PV system varies between 2.6 and 5.4 kWh/kWp in January and July, respectively, which corresponds to a performance ratio of 90% and 66.25%, respectively.
The Green Synthesis of MgO Nano-Flowers Using Rosmarinus officinalis L. (Rosemary) and the Antibacterial Activities against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae
Authors: Abdallah Yasmine , Ogunyemi Solabomi Olaitan , Abdelazez Amro , Zhang Muchen , Hong Xianxian , Ibrahim Ezzeldin , Hossain Afsana , Fouad Hatem , Li Bin , Chen Jianping
Published: February 2019

Recently, the use of herbs in the agriculture and food industry has increased significantly. In particular, Rosmarinus officinalis L. extracts have been reported to have strong antibacterial properties, which depend on their chemical composition. The present study displayed a biological method for synthesis of magnesium oxide (MgO) nano-flowers. The nano-flowers are developed without using any catalyst agent. Aqueous Rosemary extract was used to synthesize MgO nano-flowers (MgONFs) in stirring conditions and temperature at 70°C for 4 h. The mixture solution was checked by UV-Vis spectrum to confirm the presence of nanoparticles. The MgO nano-flowers powder was further characterized in this study by the X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In addition, bacteriological tests indicated that MgO nano-flowers significantly inhibited bacterial growth, biofilm formation, and motility of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, which is the causal agent of bacterial blight disease in rice. The electronic microscopic observation showed that bacterial cell death may be mainly due to destroy of cell integrity, resulting in leakage of intracellular content. As recommended, the use of Rosemary extract is an effective and green way to produce the MgO nano-flowers, which can be widely used in agricultural fields to suppress bacterial infection.
A Survey on Deep Learning Techniques in Wireless Signal Recognition
Authors: Li Xiaofan , Dong Fangwei , Zhang Sha , Guo Weibin
Published: February 2019

Wireless signal recognition plays an important role in cognitive radio, which promises a broad prospect in spectrum monitoring and management with the coming applications for the 5G and Internet of Things networks. Therefore, a great deal of research and exploration on signal recognition has been done and a series of effective schemes has been developed. In this paper, a brief overview of signal recognition approaches is presented. More specifically, classical methods, emerging machine learning, and deep leaning schemes are extended from modulation recognition to wireless technology recognition with the continuous evolution of wireless communication system. In addition, the opening problems and new challenges in practice are discussed. Finally, a conclusion of existing methods and future trends on signal recognition is given.
Flemingia philippinensis Flavonoids Relieve Bone Erosion and Inflammatory Mediators in CIA Mice by Downregulating NF-κB and MAPK Pathways
Authors: Sun Guangchen , Xing Congcong , Zeng Luting , Huang Yijie , Sun Xin , Liu Yingqin
Published: February 2019

Background. The dry root of Flemingia philippinensis has been widely used in the treatment of rheumatism, arthropathy, and osteoporosis in traditional Chinese medicine; the therapeutic effects of Flemingia philippinensis are associated with antiarthritis in traditional Chinese medicine theory. This study was undertaken to investigate the mechanism of bone erosion protection and anti-inflammatory effect of Flemingia philippinensis flavonoids (FPF) in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in mice. Methods. Flavonoids were extracted from the dry root of Flemingia philippinensis. Collagen-induced arthritis in C57BL/6 mice was used as a rheumatoid arthritis model, and the mice were orally fed with FPF prior to induction to mimic clinical prophylactic therapy for a total of 39 days. After treatment, histology and immunohistochemistry staining were performed, and the levels of anti-collagen type II (CII) antibody and inflammatory mediators, as well as the key proteins of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, were detected in the samples taken from ankle joints, plasma, and paws. Results. FPF administration significantly suppressed the paw swelling and arthritic score in CIA mice. FPF reduced inflammatory infiltration and pannus formation, articular cartilage destruction and osteoclast infiltration, and the expression of MMP-9 and cathepsin K in the ankle joint. FPF inhibited plasma anti-CII antibody levels and the production of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in CIA paws. FPF treatment suppressed the activation of NF-κB as indicated by downregulating the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and mitogen-activated protein kinases in CIA paws. Additionally, FPF significantly inhibited inflammation signaling by suppressing the activation of activator protein-1 subset and signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3). Conclusions. Our data suggest that FPF might be an active therapeutic agent for rheumatoid arthritis and the preventive effect of FPF on arthritis is attributable to an anti-inflammatory effect on CIA by preventing bone destruction, regulating inflammatory mediators, and suppressing NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.