bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tile-based Pattern Design with Topology Control
Authors: Bian Xiaojun , Wei Li-Yi , Lefebvre Sylvain
Published: July 2018

Patterns with desired aesthetic appearances and physical structures are ubiquitous. However, such patterns are challenging to produce -- manual authoring requires significant expertise and efforts while automatic computation lacks sufficient flexibility and user control.

We propose a method that automatically synthesizes vector patterns with visual appearance and topological structures designated by users via input exemplars and output conditions. The input can be an existing vector graphics design or a new one manually drawn by the user through our interactive interface. Our system decomposes the input pattern into constituent components (tiles) and overall arrangement (tiling). The tile sets are general and flexible enough to represent a variety of patterns, and can produce different outputs with user specified conditions such as size, shape, and topological properties for physical manufacturing.
Analytics for the Internet of Things
Authors: Siow Eugene , Tiropanis Thanassis , Hall Wendy
Published: July 2018

The Internet of Things (IoT) envisions a world-wide, interconnected network of smart physical entities. These physical entities generate a large amount of data in operation, and as the IoT gains momentum in terms of deployment, the combined scale of those data seems destined to continue to grow. Increasingly, applications for the IoT involve analytics. Data analytics is the process of deriving knowledge from data, generating value like actionable insights from them. This article reviews work in the IoT and big data analytics from the perspective of their utility in creating efficient, effective, and innovative applications and services for a wide spectrum of domains. We review the broad vision for the IoT as it is shaped in various communities, examine the application of data analytics across IoT domains, provide a categorisation of analytic approaches, and propose a layered taxonomy from IoT data to analytics. This taxonomy provides us with insights on the appropriateness of analytical techniques, which in turn shapes a survey of enabling technology and infrastructure for IoT analytics. Finally, we look at some tradeoffs for analytics in the IoT that can shape future research.
Large-Scale Ontology Matching
Authors: Ochieng Peter , Kyanda Swaib
Published: July 2018

Ontologies have become a popular means of knowledge sharing and reuse. This has motivated the development of large-sized independent ontologies within the same or different domains with some overlapping information among them. To integrate such large ontologies, automatic matchers become an inevitable solution. However, the process of matching large ontologies has high space and time complexities. Therefore, for a tool to efficiently and accurately match these large ontologies within the limited computing resources, it must have techniques that can significantly reduce the high space and time complexities associated with the ontology matching process. This article provides a review of the state-of-the-art techniques being applied by ontology matching tools to achieve scalability and produce high-quality mappings when matching large ontologies. In addition, we provide a direct comparison of the techniques to gauge their effectiveness in achieving scalability. A review of the state-of-the-art ontology matching tools that employ each strategy is also provided. We also evaluate the state-of-the-art tools to gauge the progress they have made over the years in improving alignment’s quality and reduction of execution time when matching large ontologies.
Rethinking the Prevailing Security Paradigm
Authors: Jeon Soohyun , Hovav Anat , Han Jinyoung , Alter Steven
Published: July 2018

Information leakage is a major concern for organizations. As information travels through the organization's eco-system, perimeter-based defense is no longer sufficient. Rather, organizations are implementing data-centric solutions that persist throughout the information life-cycle regardless of its location. Enterprise rights management (ERM) systems are an example of persistent data-centric security. ERM defines specific access rules as an instantiation of organizational information security policies and has been suggested as means of role-based access permissions control. Yet, evidence shows that employees often circumvent or work around organizational security rules and policies since these controls hinder task-performance. In this exploratory case study, we use the theory of workarounds as a lens to examine users' workaround behavior. We introduce an empowerment-based ERM system highlighting users' permission to override provisionally assigned access rules. The concept of empowered security policies is novel and presents a shift in the current security compliance paradigm. Subsequently, we compare users' compliance intention between empowered ERM users and conventional ERM users. Our descriptive results indicate that circumventing intention is lower while perceived responsibility and task-performance benefits are higher for the empowered ERM users than for the conventional ERM users. Compliance intention is higher for conventional ERM users than for empowered ERM users.
Congenital Viral Infection: Traversing the Uterine-Placental Interface
Authors: Pereira Lenore
Published: July 2018

Why certain viruses cross the physical barrier of the human placenta but others do not is incompletely understood. Over the past 20 years, we have gained deeper knowledge of intrauterine infection and routes of viral transmission. This review focuses on human viruses that replicate in the placenta, infect the fetus, and cause birth defects, including rubella virus, varicella-zoster virus, parvovirus B19, human cytomegalovirus (CMV), Zika virus (ZIKV), and hepatitis E virus type 1. Detailed discussions include ( a) the architecture of the uterine-placental interface, ( b) studies of placental explants ex vivo that provide insights into the infection and spread of CMV and ZIKV to the fetal compartment and how these viruses undermine early development, and ( c) novel treatments and vaccines that limit viral replication and have the potential to reduce dissemination, vertical transmission and the occurrence of congenital disease.
Multiple, Switchable Protein:RNA Interactions Regulate Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Assembly
Authors: Bieniasz Paul , Telesnitsky Alice
Published: July 2018

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) particle assembly requires several protein:RNA interactions that vary widely in their character, from specific recognition of highly conserved and structured viral RNA elements to less specific interactions with variable RNA sequences. Genetic, biochemical, biophysical, and structural studies have illuminated how virion morphogenesis is accompanied by dramatic changes in the interactions among the protein and RNA virion components. The 5′ leader RNA element drives RNA recognition by Gag upon initiation of HIV-1 assembly and can assume variable conformations that influence translation, dimerization, and Gag recognition. As Gag multimerizes on the plasma membrane, forming immature particles, its RNA binding specificity transiently changes, enabling recognition of the A-rich composition of the viral genome. Initiation of assembly may also be regulated by occlusion of the membrane binding surface of Gag by tRNA. Finally, recent work has suggested that RNA interactions with viral enzymes may activate and ensure the accuracy of virion maturation.
Mechanisms and Concepts in RNA Virus Population Dynamics and Evolution
Authors: Dolan Patrick T. , Whitfield Zachary J. , Andino Raul
Published: July 2018

RNA viruses are unique in their evolutionary capacity, exhibiting high mutation rates and frequent recombination. They rapidly adapt to environmental changes, such as shifts in immune pressure or pharmacological challenge. The evolution of RNA viruses has been brought into new focus with the recent developments of genetic and experimental tools to explore and manipulate the evolutionary dynamics of viral populations. These studies have uncovered new mechanisms that enable viruses to overcome evolutionary challenges in the environment and have emphasized the intimate relationship of viral populations with evolution. Here, we review some of the emerging viral and host mechanisms that underlie the evolution of RNA viruses. We also discuss new studies that demonstrate that the relationship between evolutionary dynamics and virus biology spans many spatial and temporal scales, affecting transmission dynamics within and between hosts as well as pathogenesis.
Depletion of haptoglobin and hemopexin promote hemoglobin-mediated lipoprotein oxidation in sickle cell disease
Authors: Yalamanoglu Ayla , Deuel Jeremy W. , Hunt Ryan C. , Baek Jin Hyen , Hassell Kathryn , Redinius Katie , Irwin David C. , Schaer Dominik J. , Buehler Paul W.
Published: July 2018

Intravascular sickling and lysis of red blood cells, a hallmark feature of sickle cell disease (SCD), releases hemoglobin (Hb) into the circulation. Increased cell-free Hb has been linked to vasculopathy and in vitro lipid oxidation. Scavenger plasma proteins haptoglobin (Hp) and hemopexin (Hpx) can attenuate cell-free Hb and total plasma heme lipid-oxidative capacity but are depleted in SCD. Here, we isolated lipids from BERK-SS mice, guinea pigs (GP) infused with heme-albumin, and patients with SCD undergoing regular exchange transfusion therapy and evaluated the level of lipid oxidation. Malondialdehyde formation, an end product of lipid peroxidation, was increased in BERK-SS mice, purified lipid fractions of the heme-albumin infused GP, and patients with SCD compared with controls. In humans, the extent of lipid oxidation was associated with the absence of Hp as well as decreased Hpx in plasma samples. Postmortem pulmonary tissue obtained from patients with SCD demonstrated oxidized LDL deposition in the pulmonary artery. The relationship between no Hp and low Hpx levels with greater LDL and HDL oxidation demonstrates the loss of protection against cell-free Hb and total plasma heme-mediated lipid oxidation and tissue injury in SCD. Strategies to protect against plasma lipid oxidation by cell-free Hb and total plasma heme (e.g., therapeutic Hp and Hpx replacement) may diminish the deleterious effects of cell-free Hb and total plasma heme toward the vascular system in SCD.
Exercise cardiorespiratory and thermoregulatory responses in normoxic, hypoxic, and hot environment following 10-day continuous hypoxic exposure
Authors: Sotiridis Alexandros , Debevec Tadej , McDonnell Adam C. , Ciuha Urša , Eiken Ola , Mekjavic Igor B.
Published: July 2018

We examined the effects of acclimatization to normobaric hypoxia on aerobic performance and exercise thermoregulatory responses under normoxic, hypoxic, and hot conditions. Twelve men performed tests of maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) in normoxic (NOR), hypoxic [HYP; 13.5% fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2)], and hot (HE; 35°C, 50% relative humidity) conditions in a randomized manner before and after a 10-day continuous normobaric hypoxic exposure [FiO2= 13.65 (0.35)%, inspired partial pressure of oxygen = 87 (3) mmHg]. The acclimatization protocol included daily exercise [60 min at 50% hypoxia-specific peak power output (Wpeak)]. All maximal tests were preceded by a steady-state exercise (30 min at 40% Wpeak) to assess the sweating response. Hematological data were assessed from venous blood samples obtained before and after acclimatization. V̇o2maxincreased by 10.7% ( P = 0.002) and 7.9% ( P = 0.03) from pre-acclimatization to post acclimatization in NOR and HE, respectively, whereas no differences were found in HYP [pre: 39.9 (3.8) vs. post: 39.4 (5.1) ml·kg−1·min−1, P = 1.0]. However, the increase in V̇O2maxdid not translate into increased Wpeakin either NOR or HE. Maximal heart rate and ventilation remained unchanged following acclimatization. Νo differences were noted in the sweating gain and thresholds independent of the acclimatization or environmental conditions. Hypoxic acclimatization markedly increased hemoglobin ( P < 0.001), hematocrit ( P < 0.001), and extracellular HSP72 ( P = 0.01). These data suggest that 10 days of normobaric hypoxic acclimatization combined with moderate-intensity exercise training improves V̇o2maxin NOR and HE, but does not seem to affect exercise performance or thermoregulatory responses in any of the tested environmental conditions.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The potential crossover effect of hypoxic acclimatization on performance in the heat remains unexplored. Here we show that 10-day continuous hypoxic acclimatization combined with moderate-intensity exercise training can increase maximal oxygen uptake in hot conditions.
AIDS Cholangiopathy Secondary to Cytomegalovirus as Possible Unmasking Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Individual: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Topiwala Moiz , Dubale Nachiket , Medisetty Mahender K. , Gaikwad Sunil , Patel Divya , Pujari Sanjay
Published: July 2018

We present the first case report of cytomegalovirus (CMV) cholangiopathy as possible immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) in a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individual, within two months of starting effective HAART. The patient presented with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, and jaundice. The patient was diagnosed on ERCP as AIDS cholangiopathy, and biopsy of the ampulla showed acute inflammation with CMV inclusion bodies. The patient underwent sphincterotomy with CBD stenting and HAART continued without use of ganciclovir or valganciclovir. On follow-up, the patient achieved clinical and histopathological cure, which was demonstrated on repeat ampullary biopsy.
New Insights in Genetic Cholestasis: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Implications
Authors: Sticova Eva , Jirsa Milan , Pawłowska Joanna
Published: July 2018

Cholestasis is characterised by impaired bile secretion and accumulation of bile salts in the organism. Hereditary cholestasis is a heterogeneous group of rare autosomal recessive liver disorders, which are characterised by intrahepatic cholestasis, pruritus, and jaundice and caused by defects in genes related to the secretion and transport of bile salts and lipids. Phenotypic manifestation is highly variable, ranging from progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC)—with onset in early infancy and progression to end-stage liver disease—to a milder intermittent mostly nonprogressive form known as benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis (BRIC). Cases have been reported of initially benign episodic cholestasis that subsequently transitions to a persistent progressive form of the disease. Therefore, BRIC and PFIC seem to represent two extremes of a continuous spectrum of phenotypes that comprise one disease. Thus far, five representatives of PFIC (named PFIC1-5) caused by pathogenic mutations present in both alleles ofATP8B1,ABCB11,ABCB4,TJP2,andNR1H4have been described. In addition to familial intrahepatic cholestasis, partial defects inATP8B1,ABCB11,andABCB4predispose patients to drug-induced cholestasis and intrahepatic cholestasis in pregnancy. This review summarises the current knowledge of the clinical manifestations, genetics, and molecular mechanisms of these diseases and briefly outlines the therapeutic options, both conservative and invasive, with an outlook for future personalised therapeutic strategies.
Efficiency Bounds for Two-Stage Production Systems
Authors: Shi Xiao
Published: July 2018

Traditional data envelopment analysis (DEA) models find the most desirable weights for each decision-making unit (DMU) in order to estimate the highest efficiency score as possible. These efficiency scores are then used for ranking the DMUs. The main drawback is that the efficiency scores based on weights obtained from the standard DEA models ignore other feasible weights; this is due to the fact that DEA may have multiple solutions for each DMU. To overcome this problem, Salo and Punkka (2011) deemed each DMU as a “Black Box” and developed models to obtain the efficiency bounds for each DMU over sets of all its feasible weights. In many real world applications, there are DMUs that have a two-stage production system. In this paper, we extend the Salo and Punkka’s (2011) model to a more common and practical case considering the two-stage production structure. The proposed approach calculates each DMU’s efficiency bounds for the overall system as well as efficiency bounds for each subsystem/substage. An application for nonlife insurance companies has been discussed to illustrate the applicability of the proposed approach and show the usefulness of this method.
A Family of Heuristic-Based Inequalities for Maximizing Overall Safety Margins in Aircraft Parking Stands Arrangement Problems
Authors: Qin Yichen , Wang Z. X. , Chan Felix T. S. , Chung S. H. , Qu T.
Published: July 2018

We consider the problem of arranging a set of aircraft in a maintenance hangar operated by an independent aircraft service provider. The overall safety margins of the parking layout need to be maximized within the limited available space, measured by the weighted sum of the individual discrete safety margins of each aircraft. A mixed-integer linear programming model is developed, and the positions of the aircraft are determined by the position-controlling binary variables associated with a set of revised No-Fit Polygons (NFPs). Due to the nonconvex irregular shape of aircraft, the model involves a great number of binary variables associated with the revised NFP. The default branch-and-bound algorithm is inefficient in solving such a model as the infeasibility information of the precedent visited solution cannot be directly utilized by the default method to update the bounds. A heuristic algorithm is developed to provide practical solutions, and the intermediate infeasible solutions identified during searching are utilized to develop valid and approximate inequalities, tightening the optimality gap. The computational results demonstrate that the addition of inequalities improves the computational efficiency in solving a wide range of instances and in tightening the optimality gap while the stopping criterion is met.
Kidney Transplantation after Extended Multivisceral Resection for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lapshyn Hryhoriy , Bolm Louisa , Nitschke Martin , Luebke Andreas M. , Izbicki Jakob R. , Vashist Yogesh K. , Keck Tobias , Wellner Ulrich F.
Published: July 2018

Long-term survival in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is limited. Consequently, solid organ transplantation in PDAC patients is usually not considered. This is the first case report of kidney transplantation (KT) in a 57-year-old female patient after extended multivisceral resection for PDAC of the distal pancreas who had developed end-stage renal disease (ESRD) due to toxic kidney damage by chemotherapy. 13,5 years after initial PDAC-operation and 3 years after KT the patient remains in a good general health condition with sufficient function of the kidney allograft without local tumor recurrence or distant metastasis.
Early Infant Diagnosis Sample Management in Mashonaland West Province, Zimbabwe, 2017
Authors: Mugauri Hamufare , Mugurungi Owen , Chadambuka Addmore , Juru Tsitsi , Gombe Notion Tafara , Shambira Gerald , Tshimanga Mufuta
Published: July 2018

Background. In 2016, Mashonaland West Province had 7.4% (520) dried blood spot (DBS) samples for early infant diagnosis (EID) rejected by the Zimbabwe National Microbiology Reference Laboratory (NMRL). The samples were suboptimal, delaying treatment initiation for HIV-infected children. EID is the entry point to HIV treatment services in exposed infants. We determined reasons for DBS sample rejections and suggested solutions. Methods. A cause-effect analysis, modelled on Ishikawa, was used to identify factors impacting DBS sample quality. Interviewer-administered questionnaires and evaluation of sample collection process, using Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was conducted. Rejected samples were reviewed. Epi Info™ was used to analyze findings. Results. Eleven (73.3%) facilities did not adhere to SOP and (86.7%) did not evaluate DBS sample quality before sending for testing. Delayed feedback (up to 4 weeks) from NMRL extended EID delay for 14 (93.3%) of the facilities. Of the 53 participants, 62% knew valid sample identification. Insufficient samples resulted in most rejections (77.9%). Lack of training (94.3%) and ineffective supervision (69.8%) were also cited. Conclusion. Sample rejections could have been averted through SOP adherence. Ineffective supervision, exacerbated by delayed communication of rejections, extended EID delay, disadvantaging potential ART beneficiaries. Following this study, enhanced quality control through perstage evaluations was recommended to enhance DBS sample quality.
Management of Hypertriglyceridemia Induced Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Garg Rajat , Rustagi Tarun
Published: July 2018

Hypertriglyceridemia is an uncommon but a well-established etiology of acute pancreatitis leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The risk and severity of acute pancreatitis increase with increasing levels of serum triglycerides. It is crucial to identify hypertriglyceridemia as the cause of pancreatitis and initiate appropriate treatment plan. Initial supportive treatment is similar to management of other causes of acute pancreatitis with additional specific therapies tailored to lower serum triglycerides levels. This includes plasmapheresis, insulin, heparin infusion, and hemofiltration. After the acute episode, diet and lifestyle modifications along with hypolipidemic drugs should be initiated to prevent further episodes. Currently, there is paucity of studies directly comparing different modalities. This article provides a comprehensive review of management of hypertriglyceridemia induced acute pancreatitis. We conclude by summarizing our treatment approach to manage hypertriglyceridemia induced acute pancreatitis.
Impact of High‐Rise Buildings Construction Process on Adjacent Tunnels
Authors: Guo Haifeng , Yao Aijun , Zhang Jiantao , Zhou Yijun , Guo Yanfei
Published: July 2018

The demand for buildings constructed along subway lines is increasing, and analysis of the impact of foundation excavation and building construction on adjacent tunnels is critical. This study investigated the variation law of tunnel deformation and surrounding earth pressure on an existing tunnel resulting from deep foundation excavation and the load of buildings. Four groups of scale model tests and corresponding numerical simulation calculations were conducted in four different modes: over unloading‐loading, shallow‐side unloading‐loading, middle‐side unloading‐loading, and deep‐side unloading‐loading, which are according to the different relative position of the foundation pit and the tunnel. The results show that when the tunnel stretches across different areas, corresponding deformation occurs owing to the different mechanical mechanisms during excavation and loading. The results can provide evidence for the further study on the impact of adjacent construction process on the tunnels.
Endoscopic, Ultrasonographic, and Histologic Descriptions of Dextranomer/Hyaluronic Acid in a Case of Fecal Incontinence
Authors: Irwin Trent , Snow Alexandria R. , Orton Taylor S. , Elliott Christie
Published: July 2018

Objective. To present a case of fecal incontinence treated with dextranomer/hyaluronic acid (Solesta®) injections, which later caused clinical confusion and avoidable interventions. The endoscopic, ultrasonographic, and histologic appearances of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid will also be reported. Case Presentation. A middle-aged Hispanic male who failed conservative management of his fecal incontinence was injected with dextranomer/hyaluronic acid in an attempt to alleviate symptoms. An unrelated screening colonoscopy was performed soon after, revealing a submucosal rectal lesion. Flexible sigmoidoscopy and endoscopic rectal ultrasound with FNA were scheduled for patient for further evaluation. An unknown foreign material was noted under microscopy and, upon attaining additional history, the gastroenterologist uncovered the patient’s recent injections of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid. Conclusion. Dextranomer/hyaluronic acid for the treatment of fecal incontinence has become more common in recent years. Though the imaging and histologic appearance of this gel-like material is seen in other areas of medicine, equivalent descriptions are limited in the anorectal region. To curb misdiagnoses and prevent unnecessary interventions, it is important to expound on the endoscopic, imaging, and histopathologic features of this tissue-bulking agent in the setting of fecal incontinence and to encourage communication, proper documentation, and easy accessibility to patient health information by all medical staff.
System Sizing with a Model-Based Approach: Application to the Optimization of a Power Transmission System
Authors: Yvars Pierre-Alain , Zimmer Laurent
Published: July 2018

We test the relevance of a model-based approach for sizing and optimizing complex systems. Classically a model-based approach is characterized by a clear partition between the problem description and the solving process. In the case of a design problem, we show that the sizing task could be systematically characterized and therefore could lead to a declarative model combining both system description and design requirements. Once translated into a constraint satisfaction problem, the resulting model can be solved with interval constraint programming methods and algorithms. Our first contribution to this approach is to precisely characterize the sizing task in design. The resulting terminology enables us to easily and systematically express the problem as a constraint satisfaction problem (CSP) which combines in the same model the system description and the design requirements. We have tested the approach on the optimal sizing problem of a power transmission system. Previous authors have described this scalable case study. They provide a mathematical formulation of the problem and solve it with an evolutionary algorithm. Starting from their description, we apply our methodology to model the problem as a CSP and then solve it with interval constraint programming algorithms. Our solutions are more adequate both in computational time and in optimization results than those published in the literature on the same problem. Moreover the declarative nature of constraint programming makes modifications or extensions easier than with evolutionary programming. The explanation of these results is our second contribution to the approach. However some important modelling issues remain to address in order to capture more and more complex system specifications. Further research is presented at the end of this paper.
Hepatitis E during Tocilizumab Therapy in a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ikeuchi Hidekazu , Koinuma Kana , Nakasatomi Masao , Sakairi Toru , Kaneko Yoriaki , Maeshima Akito , Yamazaki Yuichi , Okamoto Hiroaki , Mimura Toshihide , Mochida Satoshi , Nojima Yoshihisa , Hiromura Keiju
Published: July 2018

Hepatitis E is an acute self-limiting disease caused by hepatitis E virus (HEV). Recent reports show that HEV can induce chronic hepatitis or be reactivated in immunocompromised hosts. We report a 63-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who developed hepatitis E during treatment with tocilizumab. Analysis of serially stocked serum samples confirmed that hepatitis was caused by primary infection with HEV and not by viral reactivation. Her liver function improved after discontinuing tocilizumab and remained within the normal range without reactivation of HEV for >5 years after restarting tocilizumab. We also reviewed the published cases of hepatitis E that developed during RA treatment.
Diagnostic Potential of Systemic Eosinophil-Associated Cytokines and Growth Factors in IBD
Authors: Neubauer Katarzyna , Matusiewicz Malgorzata , Bednarz-Misa Iwona , Gorska Sabina , Gamian Andrzej , Krzystek-Korpacka Malgorzata
Published: July 2018

Despite the acknowledged contribution of eosinophils to the disease pathogenesis, available data on cytokines closely related to the peripheral eosinophils in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are scattered. We assessed the concentrations of eosinophil-associated cytokines and growth factors in the group of 277 individuals (101 patients with Crohn’s disease (CD), 77 with ulcerative colitis (UC), 16 with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and 83 healthy controls) and referred to IBD activity and the levels of hsCRP. As compared to IBS patients or healthy controls, patients with CD had significantly higher levels of IL5, IL8, IL12(p70), GM-CSF, and TNFα and patients with UC, the levels of eotaxin, IL4, IL5, IL8, IL12(p70), IL13, GM-CSF, and TNFα were also higher. As compared to CD patients, patients with UC had significantly higher levels of eotaxin, IL4, IL5, IL8, and IL1. In turn, the concentrations of hsCRP were significantly higher in CD than UC. Except for IL13, all cytokines and hsCRP positively correlated with CDAI. In UC, a positive correlation with MDAI was observed for hsCRP, GM-CSF, IL12(p70), and IFNγ and a negative one for IL8. The concentrations of hsCRP, GM-CSF, IFNγ, IL12(p70), and RANTES were higher in UC patients with active than inactive disease whereas those of IL8 and TNFα were significantly lower. Eotaxin, determined individually or in a panel with IFNγ and hsCRP, showed fair accuracy in differentiating CD from UC. If confirmed on a larger representation of IBS patients, IL8 might support differential diagnosis of organic and functional conditions of the bowel. GM-CSF, in turn, demonstrated to be an excellent indicator of bowel inflammation and may be taken into consideration as a noninvasive marker of mucosal healing. In summary, eosinophil-associated cytokines are elevated in IBD, more pronouncedly in UC, and may support the differential diagnosis of IBD and aid in monitoring of mucosal healing.
Plastic Failure Analysis of Roadway Floor Surrounding Rocks Based on Unified Strength Theory
Authors: Zheng Wenxiang , Bu Qingwei , Hu Yaoqing
Published: July 2018

Taking the whole surrounding rock of an excavation roadway as the research object, the elastoplastic failure mechanics analysis of the surrounding rock body of the excavated roadway under three‐directional in situ stresses is carried out by using the knowledge of generalized plane strain problems and unified strength theory, and the equations are derived for the elastic‐plastic zone stress together with the plastic fracture range of the roadway floor surrounding rock under three‐directional in situ stresses. At the same time, by means of the conclusion of mechanical analysis and the results of in situ detection of in situ stress in the Changcun mining area, the stability of the roadway floor surrounding rock was analyzed. The analysis reveals the influence on the stability of the roadway floor surrounding rock between the spatial relationship with the different in situ stresses and the roadway layout; meanwhile, it calculates the range of the plastic failure zone and the stress value of the #1 roadway floor in the S6 mining area of Changcun mine, which provides a reliable theoretical mechanical reference for research on roadway floor heave control technology.
Mesostructure Evolution of Gravelly Soil under the Triaxial Compressive Condition by Computerized Tomography
Authors: Wang Yanli , Wang Yong , Pan Jiajun , Liang Rui
Published: July 2018

Gravelly soil is widely used in many engineering construction projects, partly due to its extensive distribution and rich reserves in nature. Using special purpose loading equipment, the computerized tomography (CT) real‐time tests were conducted to investigate the mesomechanical behavior of gravelly soil under the triaxial compressive condition. Mesostructure evolutions of soil particles, such as particle motion law and long axis direction, as well as the relation to macroscopic phenomenon were studied through the quantitative analysis of CT number and CT images. Results show that the mean CT number decreases, but the standard deviation increases with the increasing axial strain, which indicates that internal structural defects of gravelly soil are intensified in the loading process. Position adjustment and long axis evolution of particles reflect behaviors of particle rearrangement and anisotropism development during the triaxial compressive process. Experimental findings are helpful to revealing the mesomechanism of deformation of gravelly soil.
Primary Bone Marrow B-Cell Lymphoma Undetected by Multiple Imaging Modalities That Initially Presented with Hypercalcemia
Authors: Yoo Jin Sae , Kim Juwon , Kwon Hyeong Ju , Lim Jung Soo
Published: July 2018

Purpose. We report a rare case of severe hypercalcemia that was ultimately diagnosed as primary bone marrow diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (BCL). Case Report. A 74-year-old male patient visited our hospital complaining of tenderness and swelling of the left knee caused by supracondylar fracture of the left distal femur. His initial blood tests showed a serum calcium level of 13.9 mg/dL, inorganic phosphorus of 4.34 mg/dL, and a serum creatinine level of 1.54 mg/dL. A serum assay of intact parathyroid hormone showed 5.24 pg/mL, and the patient’s serum 25(OH)D level was 22.33 ng/mL. To exclude malignancy, we performed imaging studies, including abdomen or chest computed tomography and positron emission tomography-computed tomography; however, no suspicious lesion was found, although the serum PTH-related peptide level was elevated at 4.0 pmol/L. A bone marrow biopsy was performed to identify any hidden hematologic malignancy. As a result, the pathology of bone marrow confirmed the presence of atypical lymphocytes that stained positive for the CD20 marker, which is consistent with BCL involving the bone marrow. Conclusion. This case highlights the importance of pursuing a thorough workup for rare underlying causes of hypercalcemia when parathyroid-related etiologies can be excluded.
Latent Syphilis Infection in Pregnancy: An Ultrasound Diagnosed Case of Penicillin Treatment Failure
Authors: Pasquini Lucia , Magro-Malosso Elena Rita , Cordisco Adalgisa , Trotta Michele , Di Tommaso Mariarosaria
Published: July 2018

We report a case of early latent syphilis (reactive serologic tests without clinical evidence of disease within 24 months from the onset of the infection) in pregnancy. Despite an appropriate maternal treatment with benzathine penicillin G, sonographic signs of fetal syphilis were detected. Follow-up scans, in addiction to serial serological tests, have allowed the identification of fetal infection and therefore the failure of antibiotic therapy. We highlight the importance of ultrasound in suspecting fetal infection and in evaluation of the fetal response after penicillin treatment.
Convergence, Accommodation, Fusion, and Stereopsis: What Keeps the Eyes Aligned in Intermittent Exotropia?
Authors: Schiavi Costantino , Di Croce Valentina , Primavera Laura , Tassi Filippo
Published: July 2018

Purpose. To investigate the relationships between angle of deviation, fusional convergence and divergence amplitude, AC/A ratio, near point of convergence (NPC), and myopia-phoria in intermittent exotropia (IXT). Methods. 93 patients with IXT, divided into two groups, were recruited in the study. In Group A (73 patients), fusional convergence and divergence amplitudes, NPC, and AC/A ratio were studied and compared with a control group. In Group B (in 20 patients), myopia-phoria while switching from monocular to binocular view was studied with an infrared video retinoscopy and compared with a control group. Results. In Group A, positive fusional amplitudes, NPC, and AC/A ratio of IXT patients did not differ from those of normals. Negative fusional amplitudes were significantly higher in the patient group than in the control group. In Group B, myopic shift was statistically significantly higher in the patient group and there was a statistically significant positive correlation between myopic shift and angle of strabismus. Conclusions. Apart from the role of fusional convergence which accounts for myopia-phoria, that of the other binocular functions in the control at near of IXT and conversely their specific role in the pathogenesis of IXT remain unclear and the cause of divergent infantile strabismus is still unknown.
Prognostic Significance of Tumor-Infiltrating B Cells and Plasma Cells in Human Cancer
Authors: Wouters Maartje C.A. , Nelson Brad H.
Published: July 2018

There is abundant evidence that tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells contribute positively to antitumor immunity; however, the role of tumor-infiltrating B cells (TIL-B) and plasma cells (PC) remains controversial, leading to differing opinions about whether immunotherapies should be designed to enhance or inhibit these cells. Through a comprehensive PubMed search, we reviewed publications with cohorts of 50 or more cases in which the prognostic value of TIL-B/PC was assessed by immunohistochemistry and/or gene-expression analysis. Sixty-nine studies representing 19 cancers met our review criteria. The large majority of studies assessed TIL-B by immunohistochemical detection of CD20. Of these, 50.0% reported a positive prognostic effect for CD20+ TIL-B, whereas the remainder found a neutral (40.7%) or negative (9.3%) effect. These differences in prognostic effect were not attributable to cancer type, other clinicopathologic factors, or differing technical approaches. The prognostic significance of TIL-B/PC was generally concordant with that of CD3+ and/or CD8+ T cells, and the prognostic effect of T cells was generally stronger when TIL-B and/or PC were also present. Additionally, 21 studies inferred the presence of TIL-B/PC from gene-expression data, and a large majority reported a positive prognostic effect. Although more studies are required involving additional cancer types and independent patient cohorts, the weight of evidence supports a positive role for TIL-B and PC in antitumor immunity, suggesting that enhancement of these responses should be considered in the design of cancer immunotherapies.
CD44 Facilitates Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Phenotypic Change at Acquisition of Resistance to EGFR Kinase Inhibitors in Lung Cancer
Authors: Suda Kenichi , Murakami Isao , Yu Hui , Kim Jihye , Tan Aik-Choon , Mizuuchi Hiroshi , Rozeboom Leslie , Ellison Kim , Rivard Christopher J. , Mitsudomi Tetsuya , Hirsch Fred R.
Published: July 2018

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is one of the acquired resistance mechanisms to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) in lung cancers. Because EMT is related to tumor invasion, metastases, and resistance to various treatments, it is important to prevent the emergence of EMT. However, molecular mechanism(s) underlying EMT phenotypic changes, as well as biomarker(s) that predict the emergence of EMT in EGFR-mutated lung cancers, are unclear to date. Through the comparison of expression data between isogenic lung cancer cell lines that acquired resistance to EGFR-TKI(s), we identified that high CD44 expression is related to a mesenchymal phenotype and that shRNA-mediated knockdown of CD44 reversed the EMT change. High membranous CD44 expression was identified in lesions with mesenchymal phenotype that were obtained from lung cancer patients who developed acquired resistance to gefitinib or afatinib, whereas isogenic lesions without EMT change showed negative/weak staining for CD44. Immunohistochemistry for treatment-naïve lung cancer cell lines with EGFR mutations found those that acquire resistance to EGFR-TKIs via EMT (HCC4006 and H1975 cells) had strong membranous CD44 expression compared with non–EMT-transforming lines which demonstrated negative or weak staining (Fisher exact test P value = 0.036). shRNA-mediated CD44 knockdown in HCC4006 cells prevented the emergence of EMT after chronic exposure to osimertinib. These results suggest that upregulation of CD44 facilitates EMT-phenotypic change in lung cancers with EGFR mutations when treated with EGFR-TKIs. In addition, our results suggest that CD44 can be a useful biomarker to predict the emergence of EMT upon EGFR-TKI monotherapy. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(10); 2257–65. ©2018 AACR.
Clinical and Histologic Evaluation of the Hysterotomy Site and Fetal Membranes after Open Fetal Surgery for Fetal Spina Bifida Repair
Authors: Ochsenbein-Kölble Nicole , Brandt Simone , Bode Peter , Krähenmann Franziska , Hüsler Margaret , Möhrlen Ueli , Mazzone Luca , Meuli Martin , Zimmermann Roland
Published: July 2018

Introduction: Among the risks associated with open fetal surgery, myometrium and fetal membrane issues are vexing problems since they may lead to uterine dehiscence or preterm premature rupture of membranes resulting in uterine rupture or preterm birth or both. The aim of this study was to examine whether stapled and sutured hysterotomy scars demonstrate partial or complete healing. Methods: Hysterotomy sites after open fetal surgery were clinically evaluated in 36 women during Caesarean section, classified into the categories intact, thin, and partially or completely dehiscent, then completely excised and histologically analyzed in 25 cases. The histological examination focused on wound healing of myometrium and fetal membranes. Results: The myometrium was intact, thin, and partially or completely dehiscent in 33, 58, and 9%, respectively. The interval between myelomeningocele repair and delivery did not correlate with the healing process. The myometrium showed a reparative zone (scar) with adjacent avital myometrium tissue, fibrosis, and inflammation with foreign body reaction. The intact myometrium was below 1 mm thickness in 56%. All fetal membranes showed complete dehiscence; in 41% they were completely avital. Conclusion: Our study provides evidence that the myometrium shows scarring with substantial thinning or dehiscence. Fetal membranes do not heal spontaneously. In order to prevent uterine rupture in subsequent pregnancies, we recommend the hysterotomy site to be completely excised after birth.
Cochlear Function in Adults with Epilepsy and Treated with Carbamazepine
Authors: Hamed Sherifa A. , Oseilly Amira M.
Published: July 2018

Background: Epilepsy is a chronic medical disease and is associated with comorbid adverse somatic conditions due to epilepsy itself or its long-term treatment. Objectives: This study evaluated cochlear function in patients with idiopathic epilepsy and treated with carbamazepine (CBZ). Patients and Methods: Included were 47 patients (mean age = 34.56 ± 7.11 years and duration of illness = 17.84 ± 7.21 years) and 40 healthy subjects. They underwent pure-tone audiometry and transient evoked otoacoustic emission (TEOAE) analyses. Results: Hearing loss (mainly bilateral mild) was reported in one third of patients. Compared to controls, patients had lower TEOAE amplitudes at 1.0–4.0 kHz particularly at high frequencies (3 and 4 kHz). Significant correlations were identified between TEOAE amplitudes with CBZ dose (at 3 kHz: r = –0.554, p = 0.008; at 4 kHz: r = –0.347, p = 0.01), its serum level (at 4 kHz: r = –0.280, p = 0.045) and duration of treatment (at 3 kHz: r = –0.392, p = 0.008; at 4 kHz: r = –0.542, p = 0.001). Conclusions: Long-term CBZ treatment may result in cochlear dysfunction and auditory deficits.
Serum Elabela/Toddler Levels Are Associated with Albuminuria in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Zhang Hong , Gong Dawei , Ni Liqiang , Shi Lin , Xu Wendong , Shi Min , Chen Juan , Ai Yong , Zhang Xiangcheng
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: Elabela (ELA) or Toddler is a recently identified hormone that plays a crucial role in embryonic development through the activation of the apelin receptor (APJ). Our previous study indicated that ELA is highly expressed in adult kidney and the ELA receptor signaling pathway is functional in mammalian systems. Whereas nothing is yet known regarding ELA and diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Here, we evaluated the relationship between serum ELA levels and albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods: An observational study involving 80 patients divided into groups according to their baseline urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR): Group 1 (ACR ≤ 29 mg/g), Group 2 (ACR = 30–299 mg/g), Group 3 (ACR ≥ 300 mg/g with normal serum creatinine), and Group 4 (ACR ≥ 300 mg/g with increased serum creatinine). The demographic, clinical, and biochemical variables including serum ELA were obtained or measured through disease history, physical examination, or laboratory evidence. Results: The results showed that the serum ELA levels decreased gradually with the deterioration of DKD from the stages of normal albuminuria, microalbuminuria, macroalbuminuria, to macroalbuminuria and elevated serum creatinine. In addition, ELA had a significantly negative correlation with ACR (r = -0.561, P < 0.001), retinopathy (r = -0.424, P < 0.001), serum creatinine (r = -0.269, P = 0.016), SBP (r = -0.249, P = 0.026), DBP (r = -0.261, P = 0.020) and a positive correlation with eGFR (r = 0.318, P = 0.004). Furthermore, stepwise multiple linear regression analysis showed that ACR, retinopathy, and LDL-C were considered the most relevant variables to ELA, and ELA, retinopathy, eGFR, and age were important predictors for ACR (t = -4.546, P = 0.000). Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first study to explore the clinical relationship between ELA levels and CKD. Decreased serum ELA levels might be a significant clinical predictor in patients with DKD or even as a promising agent for treating CKD patients.
Unit Commitment Problem in Electrical Power System: A Literature Review
Authors: Abdou Idriss , Tkiouat Mohamed
Published: July 2018

Unit commitment (UC) is a popular problem in electric power system that aims at minimizing the total cost of power generation in a specific period, by defining an adequate scheduling of the generating units. The UC solution must respect many operational constraints. In the past half century, there was several researches treated the UC problem. Many works have proposed new formulations to the UC problem, others have offered several methodologies and techniques to solve the problem. This paper gives a literature review of UC problem, its mathematical formulation, methods for solving it and Different approaches developed for addressing renewable energy effects and uncertainties.
Dynamic Voltage Stability Comparison of Thermal and Wind Power Generation with Different Static and Dynamic Load Models
Authors: Acevedo Lina F. , Bothia-Vargas Gilbert , Candelo John Edwin
Published: July 2018

This paper presents a static and dynamic voltage stability analysis of a power network with thermal and wind generation considering static and dynamic load models. The thermal plant was modeled as a synchronous machine and the wind farm as a variable speed induction generator based on a doubly-fed induction generator. The load considered the ZIP, exponential recovery, induction motor, and frequency-dependent load models. The bifurcation points were found by continuation power flow and sensitivity analyses. In addition, dynamic voltage stability assessments were performed considering changes in the moment of inertia and the frequency parameters. All simulations were carried out in a 4-bus power system and using the power system analysis toolbox (PSAT) and MATLAB script code. The results show that the thermal generator had difficulties to maintain stability under dynamic load variations and frequency changes, the wind generator had difficulties to maintain voltage for the load with induction motors, and both generators had difficulties when the moment of inertia is increased.