bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biotin-conjugated PEGylated porphyrin self-assembled nanoparticles co-targeting mitochondria and lysosomes for advanced chemo-photodynamic combination therapy
Authors: Purushothaman Baskaran , Choi Jinhyeok , Park Solji , Lee Jeongmin , Samson Annie Agnes Suganya , Hong Sera , Song Joon Myong
Published: November 2018

In this study, the chemo-drug doxorubicin (DOX) was successfully encapsulated in PEG–biotin conjugated porphyrin SANs (DOX@TPP–PEG–biotin) and had synergistic effects after PDT action.
I-BET151 suppresses osteoclast formation and inflammatory cytokines secretion by targetting BRD4 in multiple myeloma
Authors: Guo Ning-Hong , Zheng Ji-Fu , Zi Fu-Ming , Cheng Jing
Published: November 2018

Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable hematologic cancer, accompanied by excessive osteoclast formation and inflammatory cytokine secretion. The mechanisms by which bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) protein inhibitor I-BET151 regulates osteoclast differentiation and inflammatory cytokine secretion in MM are largely unknown. Methods: The isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells from normal or patients with MM were treated with receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) and M-CSF to induce osteoclast differentiation. RAW 264.7 cells were treated with RANKL. I-BET151 was applied to investigate the effects of BRD4 inhibition on osteoclast formation and inflammatory cytokine secretion. Osteoclast formation was determined by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP) staining. The expression of osteoclast-specific genes TRACP, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), cathepsin K (Ctsk), and c-Src was tested using quantitative real-time PCR. And the level of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 was assessed by ELISA. Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6), BRD4, nuclear and cytoplasm p65, IκB-α, nuclear factor of activated T cells cytoplasmic (NFATc1), and osteoprotegerin (OPG) expression were measured by Western blotting. RNAi technology was applied to knock down BET family member BRD4. Results: I-BET151 dose-dependently suppressed osteoclast formation, inhibited the levels of osteoclast-specific genes TRACP, MMP-9, Ctsk, and c-Src and inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 secretion in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and RAW 264.7. I-BET151 inhibited the protein levels of BRD4 and NFATc1, increased OPG expression, and suppressed IκB-α degradation and p65 nuclear translocation. Further, the effects of I-BET151 on osteoclast formation, osteoclast-specific genes expression, inflammatory cytokine secretion, and NF-κB inhibition were promoted by BRD4 knockdown. Conclusion: I-BET151 inhibits osteoclast formation and inflammatory cytokine secretion by targetting BRD4-mediated RANKL-NF-κB signal pathway and BRD4 inhibition might be beneficial for MM treatment.
Long-Term Efficacy of Audiologist-Guided Internet-Based Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Tinnitus
Authors: Beukes Eldré W. , Allen Peter M. , Baguley David M. , Manchaiah Vinaya , Andersson Gerhard
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the long-term outcomes 1 year after undertaking an audiologist-guided Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) intervention for tinnitus. Secondary aims were to identify any predictors of outcome and whether there were any unwanted events related to undertaking iCBT for tinnitus.

Method

Participants who had previously undertaken a randomized iCBT efficacy trial for tinnitus were invited to participate. Of the 146 who were initially randomized for the efficacy trial, 104 participants completed the 1-year postintervention assessment measures.

The primary outcome was a change in tinnitus distress as assessed by the Tinnitus Functional Index. Secondary assessment measures were included for insomnia, anxiety, depression, hearing handicap, hyperacusis, cognitive failures, and satisfaction with life. An intention-to-treat analysis using repeated-measures analysis of variance and hierarchical multiple regression was used for statistical analysis. Unwanted effects were categorized according to the unwanted events checklist.

Results

Undertaking iCBT for tinnitus led to significant improvements 1 year postintervention for tinnitus and related difficulties, for example, insomnia, anxiety, depression, hearing handicap, hyperacusis, and life satisfaction. The best predictors of improving tinnitus severity at 1-year postintervention were greater baseline tinnitus severity scores, reading more of the modules, and higher satisfaction with the intervention. Unwanted events were reported by 11% of the participants and were more likely to be reported by women than men. These events were related to worsening of symptoms, the emergence of new symptoms, negative well-being, and prolongation of treatment.

Conclusions

The clinical benefits of audiologist-guided iCBT for tinnitus and tinnitus-related difficulties were sustained 1 year postintervention. Predictors of outcome indicated that the intervention is applicable to a wide range of participants regardless of their demographic backgrounds. Attempts should be made to minimize unwanted events in subsequent trials.
Automated Characterization of Mobile Health Apps' Features by Extracting Information From the Web: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Paglialonga Alessia , Schiavo Massimo , Caiani Enrico Gianluca
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The aim of this study was to test the viability of a novel method for automated characterization of mobile health apps.

Method

In this exploratory study, we developed the basic modules of an automated method, based on text analytics, able to characterize the apps' medical specialties by extracting information from the web. We analyzed apps in the Medical and Health & Fitness categories on the U.S. iTunes store.

Results

We automatically crawled 42,007 Medical and 79,557 Health & Fitness apps' webpages. After removing duplicates and non-English apps, the database included 80,490 apps. We tested the accuracy of the automated method on a subset of 400 apps. We observed 91% accuracy for the identification of apps related to health or medicine, 95% accuracy for sensory systems apps, and an average of 82% accuracy for classification into medical specialties.

Conclusions

These preliminary results suggested the viability of automated characterization of apps based on text analytics and highlighted directions for improvement in terms of classification rules and vocabularies, analysis of semantic types, and extraction of key features (promoters, services, and users). The availability of automated tools for app characterization is important as it may support health care professionals in informed, aware selection of health apps to recommend to their patients.
User-Innovated eHealth Solutions for Service Delivery to Older Persons With Hearing Impairment
Authors: Nielsen Annette Cleveland , Rotger-Griful Sergi , Kanstrup Anne Marie , Laplante-Lévesque Ariane
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The successful design and innovation of eHealth solutions directly involve end users in the process to seek a better understanding of their needs. This article presents user-innovated eHealth solutions targeting older persons with hearing impairment. Our research question was: What are the key users' needs, expectations, and visions within future hearing rehabilitation service delivery?

Method

We applied a participatory design approach to facilitate the design of future eHealth solutions via focus groups. We involved older persons with hearing impairment (
n
= 36), significant others (
n
= 10), and audiologists (
n
= 8) following 2 methods: (a) human-centered design for interactive systems and (b) user innovation management. Through 3 rounds of focus groups, we facilitated a process progressing from insights and visions for requirements (Phase 1), to app such as paper version wireframes (Phase 2), and to digital prototypes envisioning future eHealth solutions (Phase 3). Each focus group was video-recorded and photographed, resulting in a rich data set that was analyzed through inductive thematic analysis.

Results

The results are presented via (a) a storyboard envisioning future client journeys, (b) 3 key themes for future eHealth solutions, (c) 4 levels of interest and willingness to invest time and effort in digital solutions, and (d) 2 technical savviness types and their different preferences for rehabilitation strategies.

Conclusions

Future eHealth solutions must offer personalized rehabilitation strategies that are appropriate for every person with hearing impairment and their level of technical savviness. Thus, a central requirement is anchoring of digital support in the clients' everyday life situations by facilitating easy access to personalized information, communication, and learning milieus. Moreover, the participants' visions for eHealth solutions call for providing both traditional analogue and digital services.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.7310729
Interactive Entertainment Image Restoration Method Based on Hopfield Neural Network
Authors: lv Shuangqing
Published: November 2018

The traditional image restoration methods of interactive entertainment are based on the original data. This paper proposes an interactive entertainment image restoration method based on Hopfield neural network. Firstly, the nonlinear mapping relationship between the degraded image and the real image is preliminarily established through the network, and then optimized by the algorithm. Finally, the image restoration can be achieved through the network. The experiments show that it has higher feasibility and the recovery effect on small-scale blur is better than the existing method.
Honeycomb Structure and Key Technologies of 5G Wireless Communication Network
Authors: Duan Siyan
Published: November 2018

In recent years, wireless technology in China has been further improved. Wireless system designers have also begun research on 5G wireless communication systems and obtained good research results. The application of the 5G cellular structure can effectively solve the problems existing in the current wireless technology application, thereby promoting the further improvement of the wireless technology level. This paper mainly discusses the cellular technology and the key technologies of 5G wireless communication network.
Design of Data Package Software System for Aerospace Product Quality and Reliability
Authors: Ji Cuibin
Published: November 2018

The quality and reliability data package management of space products is one of the important contents of the fine quality management of the space model, and is also a major basic work throughout the model development process. In order to meet the needs of enterprises, this paper proposes a design of quality and reliability data packet software system, introducing quality intelligence and open architecture. As an exploration of the intelligent direction of quality and reliability data package management platform, the system has launched a new quality management model to meet the quality data management and analysis requirements of the enterprise, and provided intelligent data support for the enterprise.
Design and Implementation of SFA Precious Old Film Resource Sharing Platform
Authors: Zhang Wanying , Ding Youdong , Yu Bing , Wu Biao , Zhao Hang
Published: November 2018

When it comes to old films, we think the old films describe the story of the past normally. Many old films have been degraded or damaged for a long time. So the old films' restoration has been one of the mainstream film industry nowadays. It is because the old film is a record of the history and the old film resource is worth being cherished. At this point, it is particularly necessary and important to create a precious old film resource sharing platform. This platform runs on Eclipse environment and uses SSH framework structure, using MySQL as database, Apache tomcat as the server. Users can upload and download old films as well as the official administrator can manage the background functions. This platform can reserve valuable old film resource very well.
Blind separation of asymmetric signals based on Synchrosqueezing Wavelet Transform
Authors: Peng Chuang , Yang Xiaojing , Zhang Yu
Published: November 2018

A blind separation algorithm based on synchronous squeezing wavelet transform is proposed to solve the blind separation problem of single channel asymmetric signals in satellite communications. First, the algorithm is used to synchronize the strong signal. Then, the signal time-frequency curve is extracted by synchronous extrusion wavelet transform. Finally, the weak signal interference is filtered out from the mixed signal except the noise and the main frequency of the strong signal. Therefore, the ber of the strong signal demodulation is reduced. The algorithm has the characteristics of blind separation of single channel asymmetric signals without prior information sequence sent by cooperative communicators. The simulation results show that the performance of strong signal demodulation error is better than that of mixed signal direct hard decision.
Research on Economic optimal dispatching Strategy of Microgrid based on Model Predictive Control
Authors: Zhang Zihan , Zhang Jie , DING Wenfang , Peng Rui , Xu Cheng
Published: November 2018

Because of the energy crisis caused by the shortage of fossil energy, countries begin to study low-carbon new energy and micro-grid systems related to new energy, and more importantly the energy dispatching of micro-grid is the focus of the whole micro-grid system. The application of model predictive control to the energy dispatching of microgrid has become one of the mainstreams, but the prediction error will affect the power balance of the actual system. Aiming at the above problems, the improved MPC strategy which deals with prediction error by adding power compensation is put forward. Through real-time monitoring of photovoltaic, fan and load power, the difference between the real value and the predicted value is compared. And in the MPC rolling optimization stage, the power difference compensation is given to the power interaction of the distribution network to eliminate the influence of prediction error. The simulation results show that the total cost of the improved MPC strategy is 22.69% lower than that of the traditional MPC strategy.
Research on the supply chain model based on the differentiation of green agricultural products
Authors: Su Hui , Cui Yuquan , Liu Bingjie
Published: November 2018

This paper studies the supply chain of green agricultural products with "agricultural super docking" mode based on the different management. The "agricultural super docking" mode is a direct connection between supermarkets and farmers (or cooperatives), what the supermarket needs and what the farmers produce. The green degree is used to indicate the quality level of health, safety and nutrition of agricultural products. The greater the green degree is, the better the quality of agricultural products is. In order to meet the needs of all consumers, the supermarket decide to carry out different management. That is to say, supermarket sells ordinary agricultural products and green agricultural products at the same time. This paper gives the consumer utility function for ordinary agricultural products and green agricultural products separately. We analyze the consumers’ choice behaviors based on the consumer utility function .We discuss the optimal decision of supermarket choosing one farmer and supermarket choosing two farmers based on Stackelberg game. It can be seen from the comparison that supermarket can get more profits when it chooses two farmer to order separately. Finally, a "wholesale price + ordering subsidy" coordination mechanism is proposed to realize supply chain coordination. .
Research on Algorithm of 2D and 3D Interactive Virtual City System
Authors: Tang Hao , Ge Shuangquan , Liu Jianbo , Zhang Yalin , He Qiyun , Li Pengfei
Published: November 2018

The integration of 2D GIS and 3D GIS is an important application of the current virtual city system. This paper constructs a virtual city system that integrates 2D GIS and 3D GIS. On this basis, research and achieve on visualization interactive of 2D GIS and 3D GIS. The interactive algorithm is proposed based on the assumption of parameters, so the viewpoint position of the 3D scene can be located according to the 2D scene viewpoint parameters, the viewpoint position of 2D scene can be located according to the 3D scene viewpoint parameters as well, and the position synchronization is maintained in both views through event trigger mechanism during interaction. When user manipulates one viewpoint in 2D GIS or 3D GIS, the others moves synchronously to the same area and angle. Three different views are used as contrasts to verify the accuracy of the algorithm. The implementation results show that the algorithm of synchronization can adapt to various user operations, with feasibility and accuracy.
CFD Simulation of the Interference Effects of Wind Pressures in Building Groups
Authors: Sun Yi , Wang Mei , Liu Bowei
Published: November 2018

The effect of interference is a hot topic in structural wind engineering. In order to investigate the phenomena of this effect, some cases, including single interfered building, double interfered buildings and building matrixes, were simulated by the technique in the software Fluent. The simulation results show that, the windward pressures were dramatically influenced by the interfered buildings, and some rules between the distances and the pressures were discovered.
Improved Sparse Representation Super-Resolution algorithm for Remote Sensing Image
Authors: Zhu Fuzhen , Huang Xin , Liu Yue , Zhu Haitao
Published: November 2018

In order to obtain higher quality super-resolution reconstruction (SRR) of remote sensing images, an improved sparse representation remote sensing images SRR method is proposed in this paper. First, low-resolution image is processed by improved feature extract operator. The high-resolution image and low-resolution image blocks have the same sparse representation coefficient, so the SRR image with higher spatial resolution can be derived from the sparse representation coefficients which have been obtained from low-resolution image. The improved feature extraction operator is a method to get more detail and texture information from the training images. Experiment results show that more texture details can be obtained in the result of SRR remote sensing images subjectively. At the same time, the objective evaluation parameters are improved greatly. The peak PSNR is increased about 2.50dB and 0.50 dB, RMSE is decreased about 2.80 and 0.3 compared with bicubic interpolation algorithm and Ref[8] algorithm respectively.
3D video conversion system based on depth information extraction
Authors: Zhang Yingchun , Huang Jianbo , Duan Siwen
Published: November 2018

3D movies have received more and more attention in recent years. However, the investment in making 3D movies is high and difficult, which restricts its development. And there are many existing 2D movie resources, and how to convert it into 3D movies is also a problem. Therefore, this paper proposes a 3D video conversion system based on depth information extraction. The system consists of four parts: segmentation of movie video frame sequences, extraction of frame image depth information, generation of virtual multi-viewpoint and synthesis of 3D video. The system can effectively extract the depth information of the movie and by it finally convert a 2D movie into a 3D movie.
A FlexRay Dynamic Segment Message Scheduling Optimization Algorithm*
Authors: Zhang Liangyu , Wang Yi
Published: November 2018

In this paper, we present a new heuristic scheduling algorithm basing on DM algorithm, which makes up for the deficiency of the currently very little collaborative design of FlexRay dynamic segment scheduling method with the worst response time and bus utilization. The algorithm improves the comprehensive efficiency of message worst-case response time and uses bus utilization as the optimization target, and the best FID allocation scheme is obtained. The MATLAB simulation experiment of the scheduling scheme obtained good simulation results.
AGV optimal path planning based on improved ant colony algorithm
Authors: He Chengwei , Mao Jian
Published: November 2018

Using the traditional Ant Colony Algorithm for AGV path planning is easy to fall into the local optimal solution and lacking the capability of obstacle avoidance in the complex storage environment. In this paper, by constructing the MAKLINK undirected network routes and the heuristic function is optimized in the Ant Colony Algorithm, then the AGV path reaches the global optimal path and has the ability to avoid obstacles. According to research, the improved Ant Colony Algorithm proposed in this paper is superior to the traditional Ant Colony Algorithm in terms of convergence speed and the distance of optimal path planning.
Kinematics Analysis of a 4PRR-P Hybrid Machining Mechanism
Authors: Song Wei , Xu Yong , Lv Yeping , Liu Yong , Liang Zheng
Published: November 2018

In this paper, a new type of 4PRR-P hybrid machining mechanism is presented. Based on the screw theory, the degree of freedom of the mechanism is verified. We solve the inverse position model of the the mechanism. The workspace of the mechanism is solved by the boundary search algorithm. The reasonable ranges of key scale parameters are obtained by investigating the influence of the parameters of the mechansm on its workspace. The above kinematic analyses and solving results can provide corresponding references for subsequent mechanism dynamics analysis and structural design.
Voltage control of bidirectional DC-DC converter with constant power source
Authors: Girma Chimdi Tadesse , song chi
Published: November 2018

—Bidirectional DC/DC converters are used in the interface of the battery bank and the high voltage direct current terminal of an inverter. The performance of the system depends on the control of voltage and current across the circuit. Voltage control in eliminates the need for changing the control loop when the power supply is changed to the alternating current source. The report explains the constant power supply voltage control. The diagram for the bidirectional dc/dc converters is analysed and the mathematical representations are given. The dynamic performance of the circuit is calculated to give the efficiency of the system in DC-link voltage control.
The Design of IP Core for LCD Controller Based on SOPC
Authors: Li Mingfeng , Zhou Xifeng , Guo Qiangang
Published: November 2018

In this paper, it introduces the design and implementation of custom IP core for liquid crystal display (LCD) controller based on system on a programmable chip (SOPC) technology and Verilog hardware description language (HDL). The IP core can be put up as a general-purpose peripheral module to the Avalon Bus, communicating with the NIOS II through registers, and the underlying sequential logic for communicating with the external LCD liquid crystal module is automatically completed by the module. The driver does not need to care about the details of the underlying timing, it only needs to implement the read and write operations of the LCD data through register access, thus achieve the purpose of controlling the display content of the LCD. In addition to reducing the complexity of driver development, the design can also take full advantage of the parallel operation of hardware logic to improve the execution efficiency of the entire system and the throughput of processing tasks, especially in some occasions where high-speed image real-time processing is required. Simulations and experiments show that the IP core for LCD controller has good stability, versatility and compatibility.
Study on the performance of MOS - based displacement sensor
Authors: Wang Baoshan , Cao Lijie
Published: November 2018

The AZO film has a laser-induced lateral photovoltage (LPV): the saturation values of this photovoltage vary linearly with the position of laser spot. While, we coated a diatomite film on position sensitive detectors based on AZO-SiO2-Si structure. Sensitivity and saturation power are apparently improved, and the sensitivity reached 108.1mw/mm for the transient peak value. Maximum saturation voltage reached 72.1mw. This work demonstrates a novel way to increase sensitivity for position sensitive detectors.
La structure des mucines conditionne les propriétés viscoélastiques des gels de mucus
Authors: Demouveaux Bastien , Gouyer Valérie , Magnien Mylène , Plet Ségolène , Gottrand Frédéric , Narita Tetsuharu , Desseyn Jean-Luc
Published: November 2018

Le mucus représente la première ligne de défense innée chez les mammifères. Les mucines gélifiantes qui le constituent forment un réseau protéique au sein duquel coexistent des régions hydrophiles et hydrophobes. Il est maintenu par des interactions covalentes et réversibles qui définissent les propriétés rhéologiques du gel. Cette revue décrit la structure et les fonctions du mucus en se focalisant sur les interactions protéine-protéine, ou interactome, des mucines gélifiantes. Du fait de leur nature réversible et de leur dépendance vis-à-vis de l’environnement physico-chimique, le rôle des interactions de faible énergie n’est pas totalement compris. Cependant, ce type de liaisons constitue une cible thérapeutique prometteuse pour contrebalancer les anormalités du mucus observées dans les pathologies associées aux muqueuses.
Réplication du génome du virus de l’hépatite delta : un rôle pour la petite protéine delta S-HDAg
Authors: Abeywickrama-Samarakoon Natali , Cortay Jean-Claude , Sureau Camille , Alfaiate Dulce , Levrero Massimo , Dény Paul
Published: November 2018

Le virus de l’hépatite delta, aussi appelé virus de l’hépatite D ou HDV, est un agent viral défectif à ARN de polarité négative. Il se réplique dans les cellules de mammifère et infecte l’homme. Son génome est un petit ARN circulaire monocaténaire d’environ 1 680 nucléotides. Pour se propager, HDV a cependant besoin d’un autre virus, le virus de l’hépatite B (HBV), qui lui fournit les protéines d’enveloppe nécessaires à l’assemblage de ses virions et à la propagation de l’infection. Les manifestations cliniques graves de l’infection combinée HBV-HDV vont des formes aiguës d’hépatites fulminantes aux formes chroniques de fibroses du foie (cirrhose), qui peuvent conduire à un carcinome hépatocellulaire. Une originalité de l’HDV repose sur la ressemblance de son génome avec celui des viroïdes, des agents infectieux des plantes constitués de petits ARN circulaires non encapsidés. Dépourvu de toute activité réplicase virale, l’HDV doit utiliser l’activité ARN polymérase-ADN dépendante de la cellule qu’il infecte pour répliquer son ARN génomique. Comment dès lors, cette réplication se réalise ? Nous aborderons dans cette revue les principales étapes de la transcription et de la réplication de ces ARN viraux.
Le système CRISPR-Cas
Authors: Croteau Félix R. , Rousseau Geneviève M. , Moineau Sylvain
Published: November 2018

CRISPR-Cas est un système immunitaire adaptatif utilisé par de nombreux microbes pour se défendre contre l’invasion d’acides nucléiques tels que les génomes viraux et autres éléments génétiques mobiles. Le système microbien utilise son locus CRISPR pour stocker de l’information génétique afin de produire des ARN guides. Ces derniers, de concert avec des endonucléases (Cas), empêchent des invasions futures. Des parties de ce système microbien ont été exploitées pour développer un puissant outil d’édition des génomes dans une panoplie d’organismes. La capacité de CRISPR-Cas9 à couper efficacement et à des endroits très précis de l’ADN pourrait peut-être permettre un jour de guérir certaines maladies génétiques humaines. La malléabilité de cet outil d’édition rend possible une variété d’applications allant de la modulation de l’expression de gènes à des modifications épigénétiques. Les locus CRISPR représentent également une mine d’informations pouvant servir de méthode de typage de souches microbiennes ou encore une façon d’étudier les interactions entre les bactéries et leurs habitats.
Intraneural ganglion cysts of the lower limb
Authors: Fricke Tobias , Schmitt Anne Dorothée , Jansen Olav
Published: November 2018

Background Intraneural ganglion cysts are rare. They affect the peripheral nerves. According to the most widely accepted theory (articular/synovial theory), the cysts are formed from a capsular defect of an adjacent joint, so that synovial fluid spreads along the epineurium of a nerve branch. This leads to diverse neurological symptoms. We will illustrate this disease based on three of our own cases.

Methods Patients were examined between 2011 and 2018 using lower limb MRI. MRI scans were also performed for the follow-up examinations.

Case studies and Discussion The patients had many symptoms. We were able to accurately detect the intraneural ganglion cysts on MRI and provide the treating surgeons with the basis for the operation to be performed. The success of surgical therapy depends on the resection of the nerve endings supplying the joint as the only way to treat the origin of the disease and prevent recurrence. Based on our case studies, we can support the commonly favored articular/synovial theory.

Key Points:

Citation Format
The Inter-Relationship of Platelets with Interleukin-1β-Mediated Inflammation in Humans
Authors: Tunjungputri Rahajeng , Li Yang , de Groot Philip , Dinarello Charles , Smeekens Sanne , Jaeger Martin , Doppenberg-Oosting Marije , Cruijsen Milou , Lemmers Heidi , Toenhake-Dijkstra Helga , Aguirre-Gamboa Raul , Kumar Vinod , Wijmenga Cisca , Joosten Leo , Netea Mihai , van der Ven Andre , de Mast Quirijn
Published: November 2018

Background Inflammation and coagulation are key processes in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The Canakinumab Anti-inflammatory Thrombosis Outcome Study trial affirmed the importance of inflammation in CVD by showing that inhibition of the interleukin (IL)-1β pathway prevents recurrent CVD. A bi-directional relationship exists between inflammation and coagulation, but the precise interaction of platelets and IL-1β-mediated inflammation is incompletely understood. We aimed to determine the inter-relationship between platelets and inflammation—and especially IL-1β—in a cohort of healthy volunteers.

Methods We used data from the 500-Human Functional Genomics cohort, which consists of approximately 500 Caucasian, healthy individuals. We determined associations of plasma levels of IL-1β and other inflammatory proteins with platelet number and reactivity, the association of platelet reactivity with ex vivo cytokine production as well as the impact of genetic variations through a genome-wide association study (GWAS).

Results Platelets were associated with IL-1β on different levels. First, platelet number was positively associated with plasma IL-1β concentrations (p = 8.9 × 10−9) and inversely with concentrations of α-1-anti-trypsin (p = 1.04 × 10−18), which is a known antagonist of IL-1β. Second, platelet degranulation capacity, as determined by agonist-induced P-selectin expression, was associated with ex vivo IL-1β and IL-6 production. Third, several platelet single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were associated with cytokine production and there was a significant platelet SNP enrichment in specific biological important pathways. Finally, platelet SNPs were enriched among SNPs earlier identified in GWAS studies in blood-related diseases and immune-mediated diseases.

Conclusion This comprehensive assessment of factors associated with platelet number and reactivity reinforces the important inter-relationship of platelets and IL-1β-mediated inflammation.
Fusion of Factor IX to Factor XIII-B Sub-Unit Improves the Pharmacokinetic Profile of Factor IX
Authors: Le Quellec Sandra , Enjolras Nathalie , Perot Eloïse , Girard Jonathan , Negrier Claude , Dargaud Yesim
Published: November 2018

Prophylaxis is currently considered the optimal care for severe haemophilia. For patients and their families one of the major difficulties with prophylaxis is the need for frequent venipunctures. The half-life of standard factor IX (FIX) concentrates is approximately 18 hours, which requires 2 or 3 intravenous infusions per week to achieve bleeding prevention in patients with severe haemophilia B. Prolonging the half-life of FIX can therefore reduce the frequency of infusions. Recently, extended half-life recombinant FIX (rFIX) concentrates have been developed. We designed a new rFIX molecule fused to coagulation FXIII-B sub-unit. This sub-unit is responsible for the long half-life of the FXIII molecule (10–12 days). The rFIX-LXa-FXIIIB fusion protein contains a short linker sequence cleavable by activated FX (FXa), to separate rFIX from the carrier protein as soon as traces of FXa are generated, leaving rFIX free to perform its enzymatic role in the tenase complex. The rFIX-LXa-FXIIIB fusion protein was expressed in human hepatic Huh-7 cells and Chinese hamster ovary cells, and both wild-type rFIX (rFIX-WT) and rFIX-LXa-FXIIIB showed similar clotting activity and thrombin generation capacity in vivo after injection in haemophilia B mice compared with rFIX-WT. The half-life of the rFIX-LXa-FXIIIB molecule in WT mice and rats was 3.9- and 2.2-fold longer, respectively, compared with rFIX-WT. A potential advantage of this new molecule is its capacity to bind to fibrinogen via FXIII-B, which might accelerate fibrin clot formation and thus improve haemostatic capacity of the molecule.
Abdominal Total Hysterectomy: The Modified Aldridge's Procedure with Noda's Method
Authors: Watanabe Yoh
Published: November 2018

Although laparoscopic surgery or robotic surgery has recently been the main procedure adopted for managing benign uterine tumors, abdominal total hysterectomy must still be learned as a basic surgical skill for obstetricians and gynecologists. Total hysterectomy is divided into two types: the extrafascial and intrafascial approaches. Intrafascial hysterectomy, represented by the Aldridge's method, is a useful and safe procedure for treatment when the patient has no cervical malignancy, including cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Furthermore, the intrafascial approach is safely performed even in patients with firm adhesion in the Douglas's pouch and/or around the uterine cervix due to endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory diseases, or a history of intrapelvic surgery. The intrafascial approach can also effectively prevent descent of the vaginal stump after hysterectomy via the partial preservation of the uterine retinaculum. Although the Aldridge's method was originally reported to start via an intrafascial approach at the position of the internal cervical os using scissors, Dr. Kiichiro Noda created a modified version of the procedure that increases its ease and safety by changing the position and management of the parametrial tissue including the uterine artery. The details of this modified Aldridge's procedure using Noda's method are explained below.
Dye-sensitized solar cells using carbon nanotube-based counter electrodes in planar and micro-array patterned configurations
Authors: Yilmaz Mesut , Hsu Shao-Hua , Raina Supil , Howell Mick , Kang Weng Poo , Huang Jin-Hua
Published: November 2018

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have been substantially researched as a prospective candidate for renewable energy technology, and a variety of materials alternative to corroding and high-cost Pt have been utilized as counter electrodes for these cells. In this article, we report on the fabrication and photovoltaic characteristics of DSSCs with vertically aligned carbon nanotube (CNT)-based DSSC counter electrodes. Our DSSCs utilized three different counter electrodes with CNTs in planar (P-CNT) and micro-array patterned (MA-CNT) configurations and platinum (Pt)-film coated Si as the control sample. The CNTs were grown in planar and micro-array patterned configurations directly on highly doped n-type silicon substrates by a hot-filament chemical vapor deposition process. In combination with an N-719 dye-sensitized titanium dioxide (TiO2) coated onto a fluorine doped tin oxide coated glass substrate as the photoanode and an iodide-based electrolyte, our P-CNT as the counter electrode showed a very high photocurrent density (Jsc) of 26.3 mA/cm2 and a power conversion efficiency (η) of 7.13% when compared to platinum's JSC of 20.6 mA/cm2 and η of 6.29%. The photovoltaic behavior of the micro-array patterned CNTs was also characterized, providing a better understanding of their electrocatalytic performance for the DSSCs. Overall, this work demonstrates the superior and improved photovoltaic performance of the vertically-aligned CNTs as the DSSC counter electrode, which makes them a stronger alternative to platinum counter electrodes.
Controlled friction behaviors of gradient porous Cu-Zn composites storing ionic liquids under electric field
Authors: Wang Yanjie , Zhang Guoliang , Wang Wenzhong , Si Lina , Liu Fengbin
Published: November 2018

Porous copper matrix composites (PCMCs) as a novel potential sliding electrical contact material has superior self-lubricating properties, which could store lubricant and during working release it under external stimuli (frictional force, electricity, etc.) to improve the tribological performance. However, the porous structure of the composites may lead to the decrease of its mechanical strength. The method to synthesize PCMCs with enhanced mechanical properties, high electrical conductivity, and novel self-lubricating properties is explored. In this study, gradient porous copper-zinc composites (GPCMCs) are fabricated with novel self-lubricating properties and enhanced strength. The basic physical and mechanical properties of PCMCs and GPCMCs with different porosities are investigated firstly and their frictional behaviors with or without stored ionic liquid (IL) under electric currents have also been studied. Results showed that the GPCMCs exhibit excellent comprehensive mechanical and tribological properties than the PCMCs with homogenous pore structure. The coefficient of friction (COF) values and wear rates of PCMCs under dry friction are higher, and increase with the increase of applied voltages, and those with IL lubricant under various applied voltages are much lower and exhibit excellent electronically controlled effects. This is because that IL stored in PCMCs and GPCMCs can be released under external electrical and frictional stimulations improving the tribological performance greatly. This work provides a strategy to fabricate sliding electrical contact material with novel self-lubricating and enhanced mechanical properties.
Cone angle effects on noise characteristics of jets impinging on conical obstacles
Authors: Liu Xin , Xie Jun-long , Xie Qing , Huang He-yuan
Published: November 2018

This paper presents an acoustic measurement experiment to investigate noise characteristics of jets impinging on conical obstacles of different cone angles. Besides cone angle, effects of impinging velocity and impinging distance are also studied. Overall sound pressure level (OASPL) and noise spectrum are analyzed. The results suggest that effects of cone angle on noise characteristics of the impinging jet are mainly related to the impinging distance. The main spectrum characteristic for impinging jet cases is of broadband characteristic in the middle and high frequency bands. Further, compared to the free jet case, main acoustic sources of the impinging jet for three cone angle cases are discussed under different impinging distances, combined with flow field analysis and spectrum analysis. Finally, a detailed noise directivity study is carried out. The OASPL of impinging jet for different cone angle cases is presented under various impinging distances and monitoring point positions.
Clozapine and shared care: the consumer experience
Authors: Murphy Kate , Coombes Ian , McMillan Sara , Wheeler Amanda J.
Published: November 2018

Clozapine is a high-risk medication with restrictions that may increase consumer treatment burden. Shared care may improve access, reduce burden and promote primary care management. However, knowledge about the consumer experience of clozapine treatment within a shared-care setting has not been previously reported to the authors’ knowledge. The aim of this study was to explore the consumer experience within the shared-care setting. This mixed-methods study examined consumers’ experiences with a clozapine shared-care program in an urban setting in Queensland, Australia. Eligible consumers (n=35) participated in a semi-structured interview, including a survey. Analysis was descriptive and thematic. Ten (28.6%) consumers participated. Survey results found a strong belief in the necessity for clozapine, with a low level of reported treatment burden and minimal adverse effects. Four themes were identified from the interviews: (i) understanding of illness and recovery; (ii) positive outcomes of treatment; (iii) acceptance of treatment burden; and (iv) communication pathways. Participants reported positive experiences in the clozapine shared-care program, citing clozapine’s efficacy and the GP relationship as key benefits, however communication between clinicians and consumers must be enhanced to reduce risk of suboptimal treatment and adverse drug events.
The
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
T6SS-VgrG1b spike is topped by a PAAR protein eliciting DNA damage to bacterial competitors
Authors: Pissaridou Panayiota , Allsopp Luke P. , Wettstadt Sarah , Howard Sophie A. , Mavridou Despoina A. I. , Filloux Alain
Published: November 2018

Significance

The type VI secretion system (T6SS) is a molecular weapon used for interbacterial competition. It acts like a crossbow bolt to deliver toxic effectors into target cells. Here we characterize a T6SS toxin which we call Tse7. We show that it is a DNase and that its two-domain PAAR-nuclease structure allows coupling to the T6SS VgrG tip via the PAAR domain. Disruption of this interface abrogates toxin delivery and results in the loss of interbacterial killing ability. We identify the corresponding immunity protein, Tsi7, and show it directly interacts with the Tse7 toxin. Finally, as Tse7–Tsi7 sequences vary significantly between
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
strains, and as Tsi7 protection is strain specific, we show that this toxin/immunity pair contributes to self- nonself-recognition.
Tracking job and housing dynamics with smartcard data
Authors: Huang Jie , Levinson David , Wang Jiaoe , Zhou Jiangping , Wang Zi-jia
Published: November 2018

Residential locations, the jobs–housing relationship, and commuting patterns are key elements to understand urban spatial structure and how city dwellers live. Their successive interaction is important for various fields including urban planning, transport, intraurban migration studies, and social science. However, understanding of the long-term trajectories of workplace and home location, and the resulting commuting patterns, is still limited due to lack of year-to-year data tracking individual behavior. With a 7-y transit smartcard dataset, this paper traces individual trajectories of residences and workplaces. Based on in-metro travel times before and after job and/or home moves, we find that 45 min is an inflection point where the behavioral preference changes. Commuters whose travel time exceeds the point prefer to shorten commutes via moves, while others with shorter commutes tend to increase travel time for better jobs and/or residences. Moreover, we capture four mobility groups: home mover, job hopper, job-and-residence switcher, and stayer. This paper studies how these groups trade off travel time and housing expenditure with their job and housing patterns. Stayers with high job and housing stability tend to be home (apartment unit) owners subject to middle- to high-income groups. Home movers work at places similar to stayers, while they may upgrade from tenancy to ownership. Switchers increase commute time as well as housing expenditure via job and home moves, as they pay for better residences and work farther from home. Job hoppers mainly reside in the suburbs, suffer from long commutes, change jobs frequently, and are likely to be low-income migrants.
Structure Zone Identification as a Geothermal Fluid Path using Gravity Euler Deconvolution-Case Study on Geothermal Area AA
Authors: Armando A. , Daud Y. , Atmojo Jatmiko Prio
Published: November 2018

An Euler deconvolution technique is one of geophysical method for rapidly making depth of anomaly estimated from gravity. Preliminary results from Euler deconvolution of gravity survey (300 meter spacing station) which analyzing on geothermal prospect area, provide confirmation of a structure zone as a geothermal fluid path, such as fault and fracture. In addition, the data allow identification of the location and trend of contact fault that has not been recognized at the surface (satellite mapping). Contact faults can be interpreted from the Euler deconvolution gravity by using SI of 0.0, while dyke use SI of 1.0 and is represented as the boundary of negatif anomaly and positif anomaly on Gravity modelling. The experimental results show that the structure zone distribution of euler deconvolution is localized at a depth of 374 to 579 meters below the surface with a percentage of 59%. Especially, structural zones where are localized near upflow manifestations are at a depth of 374 to 783 meters below the surface, while structural zones where are near outflow manifestations are at a depth of 150 to 570 meters below the surface. This euler deconvolution structures zone are also inline with geology structure
Application of machine learning techniques to tuberculosis drug resistance analysis
Authors: Kouchaki Samaneh , Yang Yang , Walker Timothy M , Sarah Walker A , Wilson Daniel J , Peto Timothy E A , Crook Derrick W ,   CRyPTIC Consortium, Clifton David A
Published: November 2018

Motivation

Timely identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) resistance to existing drugs is vital to decrease mortality and prevent the amplification of existing antibiotic resistance. Machine learning methods have been widely applied for timely predicting resistance of MTB given a specific drug and identifying resistance markers. However, they have been not validated on a large cohort of MTB samples from multi-centers across the world in terms of resistance prediction and resistance marker identification. Several machine learning classifiers and linear dimension reduction techniques were developed and compared for a cohort of 13 402 isolates collected from 16 countries across 6 continents and tested 11 drugs.

Results

Compared to conventional molecular diagnostic test, area under curve of the best machine learning classifier increased for all drugs especially by 23.11%, 15.22% and 10.14% for pyrazinamide, ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin, respectively (P < 0.01). Logistic regression and gradient tree boosting found to perform better than other techniques. Moreover, logistic regression/gradient tree boosting with a sparse principal component analysis/non-negative matrix factorization step compared with the classifier alone enhanced the best performance in terms of F1-score by 12.54%, 4.61%, 7.45% and 9.58% for amikacin, moxifloxacin, ofloxacin and capreomycin, respectively, as well increasing area under curve for amikacin and capreomycin. Results provided a comprehensive comparison of various techniques and confirmed the application of machine learning for better prediction of the large diverse tuberculosis data. Furthermore, mutation ranking showed the possibility of finding new resistance/susceptible markers.

Availability and implementation

The source code can be found at http://www.robots.ox.ac.uk/ davidc/code.php

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.