bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The linear stochastic heat equation with Hermite noise
Authors: Slaoui Meryem , Tudor C. A.
Published: December 2019

We analyze the solution to the linear stochastic heat equation driven by a multiparameter Hermite process of order [Formula: see text]. This solution is an element of the [Formula: see text]th Wiener chaos. We discuss various properties of the solution, such as the necessary and sufficient condition for its existence, self-similarity, [Formula: see text]-variation and regularity of its sample paths. We will also focus on the probability distribution of the solution, which is non-Gaussian when [Formula: see text].
Probing dark matter via effective field theory approach
Authors: Kuday Ayşe Elçi̇boğa , Özok Ferhat , Saka Erdinç Ulaş
Published: December 2019

We analyze dark matter in most general form of effective field theory approach. To examine the interactions between the weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs) and the Standard Model (SM) particles, we use the six-dimensional EFT mediated by new physics scale [Formula: see text] at tree level. After implementing a new effective field theory model in FeynRules [FeynRules 2.0 A complete toolbox for tree-level phenomenology, Comput. Phys. Comm. 185(8) (2014) 2250–2300] We investigate the theory and constrain the theory by using relic density generated by MadDM [MadDM v.3.0: A Comprehensive tool for dark matter studies, Phys. Dark Univ. 24 (2019) 100249] tool of MadGraph5_aMC@NLO [The automated computation of tree-level and next-to-leading order differential cross-sections, and their matching to parton shower simulations, J. High Energy Phys. 79 (2014) 2014].
FIRST REPORT OF SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA IN AN OVINE HOOF
Authors: Davari Aida
Published: December 2019

This paper describes, for the first time, the clinical and histopathological characteristics of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in the hoof of a two-year-old female native Iranian sheep. Physical examination of this uncommon case revealed a large, irregularly-shaped, dark-brown-to-blackish, cauliflower-like ulcerated mass in the coronary band of the hoof which had caused lameness and bleeding. On cut-section, a dark red ulcerated stiff mass was observed. In the histopathological investigation, the moderately-differentiated SCC revealed keratin pearls accumulated moderately in cytoplasm, as well as acellular ones, and a relatively dense fibrous stroma. The large tumor cells contained a small amount of eosinophilic cytoplasm and vesicular nuclei, and in some cases, they were slightly hyperchromatic. As well, in some areas, mitotic figures as well as diverse inflammatory cells infiltration were observed. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first paper reporting an incidence of SCC in an ovine hoof.
Nanorod Array Structure Through a Nanomolding Process for Semiconductor Lighting and Display Applications
Authors: Kim Je Won
Published: December 2019

Three-dimensional structure and growth can be more appropriately realized through a nanomanufacturing process that uses a mask patterning and etching process. Unlike conventional single-wavelength semiconductor lighting sources, the uniformity and reproducibility of the nanomolding process in this study enable multiple wavelengths to be used in lighting and display applications. This study shows the various wavelength characteristics through a newly developed nanomold and its nanorod array and also proves the feasibility of a white light without phosphors for emitting multiple wavelengths from a single chip. In this study, we proposed the possibility of wavelength control by fabricating a light-emitting diode with a three-dimensional nanostructure, using a nanomold with semiconductor processing.
Improving sampling depth of laser speckle imaging by topical optical clearing: A theoretical and in vivo study
Authors: Li D. , Zhang Y. , Chen B.
Published: December 2019

The effect of optical cleaning method combined with laser speckle imaging (LSI) was discussed to improve the detection depth of LSI due to high scattering characteristics of skin, which limit its clinical application. A double-layer skin tissue model embedded with a single blood vessel was established, and the Monte Carlo method was used to simulate photon propagation under the action of light-permeating agent. 808[Formula: see text]nm semiconductor and 632.8[Formula: see text]nm He–Ne lasers were selected to study the effect of optical clearing agents (OCAs) on photon deposition in tissues. Results show that the photon energy deposition density in the epidermis increases with the amount of tissue fluid replaced by OCA. Compared with glucose solution, polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) and glycerol can considerably increase the average penetration depth of photons in the skin tissue, thereby raising the sampling depth of the LSI. After the action of glycerol, PEG 400, and glucose, the average photon penetration depth is increased by 51.78%, 51.06%, and 21.51% for 808nm, 68.93%, 67.94%, and 26.67% for 632.8 nm lasers, respectively. In vivo experiment by dorsal skin chamber proves that glycerol can cause a substantial decrease in blood flow rate, whereas PEG 400 can significantly improve the capability of light penetration without affecting blood velocity, which exhibits considerable potential in the monitoring of blood flow in skin tissues.
Prospects for Cell-Directed Curative Therapy of Phenylketonuria (PKU)
Authors: Harding Cary O.
Published: December 2019

Phenylketonuria (PKU) due to recessively inherited phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) deficiency is among the most common inborn errors of metabolism. Dietary therapy begun early in infancy prevents the major manifestations of the disease but shortcomings to treatment continue to exist including lifelong commitment to a complicated and unpalatable diet, poor adherence to diet in adolescence and adulthood, and consequently a range of unsatisfactory outcomes, including neuropsychiatric disorders, frequently develop. Novel treatments that do not strictly depend upon dietary protein restriction are actively sought. This review discusses the potential for and the limitations of permanently curative cell-directed treatment of PKU, including liver-directed gene therapy and gene editing, if initiated during early infancy. A fictional but realistic vignette of a family with a new baby girl recently diagnosed with PKU is presented. What is needed to permanently cure her?
ER-Rhythm
Authors: Yang Yanni , Cao Jiannong , Liu Xiulong
Published: December 2019

The locomotor-respiratory coupling (LRC) ratio of a person doing exercise is an important parameter to reflect the exercise safety and effectiveness. Existing approaches that can measure LRC either rely on specialized and costly devices or use heavy sensors, bringing much inconvenience to people during exercise. To overcome these limitations, we propose ER-Rhythm using low-cost and lightweight RFID tags attached on the human body to simultaneously extract and couple the exercise and respiration rhythm for LRC estimation. ER-Rhythm captures exercise locomotion rhythm from the signals of the tags on limbs. However, extracting respiration rhythm from the signals of the tags on the chest during exercise is a challenging task because the minute respiration movement can be overwhelmed by the large torso movement. To address this challenge, we first leverage the unique characteristic of human respiratory mechanism to measure the chest movement while breathing, and then perform dedicated signal fusion of multiple tags interrogated by a pair of antennas to remove the torso movement effect. In addition, we take advantage of the multi-path effect of RF signals to reduce the number of needed antennas for respiration pattern extraction to save the system cost. To couple the exercise and respiration rhythm, we adopt a correlation-based approach to facilitate LRC estimation. The experimental results show that LRC can be estimated accurately up to 92% -- 95% of the time.
A Reliability-Aware Vehicular Crowdsensing System for Pothole Profiling
Authors: Zhong Weida , Suo Qiuling , Ma Fenglong , Hou Yunfei , Gupta Abhishek , Qiao Chunming , Su Lu
Published: December 2019

Accurately profiling potholes on road surfaces not only helps eliminate safety related concerns and improve commuting efficiency for drivers, but also reduces unnecessary maintenance cost for transportation agencies. In this paper, we propose a smartphone-based system that is capable of precisely estimating the length and depth of potholes, and introduce a holistic design on pothole data collection, profile aggregation and pothole warning and reporting. The proposed system relies on the built-in inertial sensors of vehicle-carried smartphones to estimate pothole profiles, and warn the driver about incoming potholes. Because of the difference in driving behaviors and vehicle suspension systems, a major challenge in building such system is how to aggregate conflicting sensory reports from multiple participating vehicles. To tackle this challenge, we propose a novel reliability-aware data aggregation algorithm called Reliability Adaptive Truth Discovery (RATD). It infers the reliability for each data source and aggregates pothole profiles in an unsupervised fashion. Our field test shows that the proposed system can effectively estimate pothole profiles, and the RATD algorithm significantly improves the profiling accuracy compared with popular data aggregation methods.
A Multisensor Person-Centered Approach to Understand the Role of Daily Activities in Job Performance with Organizational Personas
Authors: Das Swain Vedant , Saha Koustuv , Rajvanshy Hemang , Sirigiri Anusha , Gregg Julie M. , Lin Suwen , Martinez Gonzalo J. , Mattingly Stephen M. , Mirjafari Shayan , Mulukutla Raghu , Nepal Subigya , Nies Kari , Reddy Manikanta D. , Robles-Granda Pablo , Campbell Andrew T. , Chawla Nitesh V. , D'Mello Sidney , Dey Anind K. , Jiang Kaifeng , Liu Qiang , Mark Gloria , Moskal Edward , Striegel Aaron , Tay Louis , Abowd Gregory D. , De Choudhury Munmun
Published: December 2019

Several psychologists posit that performance is not only a function of personality but also of situational contexts, such as day-level activities. Yet in practice, since only personality assessments are used to infer job performance, they provide a limited perspective by ignoring activity. However, multi-modal sensing has the potential to characterize these daily activities. This paper illustrates how empirically measured activity data complements traditional effects of personality to explain a worker's performance. We leverage sensors in commodity devices to quantify the activity context of 603 information workers. By applying classical clustering methods on this multisensor data, we take a person-centered approach to describe workers in terms of both personality and activity. We encapsulate both these facets into an analytical framework that we call organizational personas. On interpreting these organizational personas we find empirical evidence to support that, independent of a worker's personality, their activity is associated with job performance. While the effects of personality are consistent with the literature, we find that the activity is equally effective in explaining organizational citizenship behavior and is less but significantly effective for task proficiency and deviant behaviors. Specifically, personas that exhibit a daily-activity pattern with fewer location visits, batched phone-use, shorter desk-sessions and longer sleep duration, tend to perform better on all three performance metrics. Organizational personas are a descriptive framework to identify the testable hypotheses that can disentangle the role of malleable aspects like activity in determining the performance of a worker population.
Breeze
Authors: Shih Chen-Hsuan (Iris) , Tomita Naofumi , Lukic Yanick X. , Reguera Álvaro Hernández , Fleisch Elgar , Kowatsch Tobias
Published: December 2019

Slow-paced biofeedback-guided breathing training has been shown to improve cardiac functioning and psychological well-being. Current training options, however, attract only a fraction of individuals and are limited in their scalability as they require dedicated biofeedback hardware. In this work, we present Breeze, a mobile application that uses a smartphone's microphone to continuously detect breathing phases, which then trigger a gamified biofeedback-guided breathing training. Circa 2.76 million breathing sounds from 43 subjects and control sounds were collected and labeled to train and test our breathing detection algorithm. We model breathing as inhalation-pause-exhalation-pause sequences and implement a phase-detection system with an attention-based LSTM model in conjunction with a CNN-based breath extraction module. A biofeedback-guided breathing training with Breeze takes place in real-time and achieves 75.5% accuracy in breathing phases detection. Breeze was also evaluated in a pilot study with 16 new subjects, which demonstrated that the majority of subjects prefer Breeze over a validated active control condition in its usefulness, enjoyment, control, and usage intentions. Breeze is also effective for strengthening users' cardiac functioning by increasing high-frequency heart rate variability. The results of our study suggest that Breeze could potentially be utilized in clinical and self-care activities.
Intermittent Learning
Authors: Lee Seulki , Islam Bashima , Luo Yubo , Nirjon Shahriar
Published: December 2019

This paper introduces intermittent learning --- the goal of which is to enable energy harvested computing platforms capable of executing certain classes of machine learning tasks effectively and efficiently. We identify unique challenges to intermittent learning relating to the data and application semantics of machine learning tasks, and to address these challenges, we devise 1) an algorithm that determines a sequence of actions to achieve the desired learning objective under tight energy constraints, and 2) propose three heuristics that help an intermittent learner decide whether to learn or discard training examples at run-time which increases the energy efficiency of the system. We implement and evaluate three intermittent learning applications that learn the 1) air quality, 2) human presence, and 3) vibration using solar, RF, and kinetic energy harvesters, respectively. We demonstrate that the proposed framework improves the energy efficiency of a learner by up to 100% and cuts down the number of learning examples by up to 50% when compared to state-of-the-art intermittent computing systems that do not implement the proposed intermittent learning framework.
The Leukocyte VCS Parameters Compared with Procalcitonin, Interleukin-6, and Soluble Hemoglobin Scavenger Receptor sCD163 for Prediction of Sepsis in Patients with Cirrhosis
Authors: Guo Fan , Feng Yang-chun , Zhao Gang , Wu Hui-li , Xu Ling , Zhao Jing , Lv Jie , Han Song-tao , Huang Yan-chun , Ma Xiu-min
Published: December 2019

Background. Patients with liver cirrhosis have a high risk of sepsis and a poor prognosis. Recently, a new standard for sepsis (Sepsis-3) has been proposed in the general population. The Coulter Lh 750 hematology analyzer can evaluate mean volume, conductivity, scatter, and distribution width of leukocyte. We tried to use Sepsis-3 criteria to study the diagnostic value of volume, conductivity, and scattering (VCS) parameters in sepsis and infection in patients with liver cirrhosis compared with traditional infection markers (PCT, IL-6, sCDl63). Methods. A blinded, cohort study was conducted in three different ED populations within three affiliated hospitals. A total of 249 patients with liver cirrhosis were enrolled in the study. According to the “Sepsis-3” consensus criteria, clinical history, and laboratory examination, the subjects were divided into sepsis (n=54), patients with infections (n=95), and patients without systemic infections (n=100). The blood samples of the patients were collected at the time of ED admission and were evaluated for the detection of sepsis. Results. The differences of MNV, MNS, MMV, MMS, MLV, NDW, and MDW in the three groups were statistically significant. In the diagnosis of sepsis in patients with liver cirrhosis, the sensitivity of combined detection of MMV and MDW was 88.89%; the specificity was 74%. This sensitivity was significantly better than the 83.3% achieved using 0.97 mg/L as the cutoff for sCD163. In the diagnosis of infection in cirrhosis, the sensitivity of combination of MNV and MMS was increased to 86.32%; the specificity was 92%. The sensitivity was the same as that achieved by using 0.31 ng/mL as the cutoff value of PCT, but the specificity increased. Conclusion. The leukocyte VCS parameter could be potential parameters for indicating sepsis and infection in patients with liver cirrhosis. The combined detection of MMV and MDW seemed to be helpful for the diagnosis of sepsis in these patients, and the combination of MNV and MMS could better indicate infection for them.
Controlled Release of Vancomycin and Tigecycline from an Orthopaedic Implant Coating Prevents Staphylococcus aureus Infection in an Open Fracture Animal Model
Authors: Stavrakis A. I. , Zhu S. , Loftin A. H. , Weixian X. , Niska J. , Hegde V. , Segura T. , Bernthal N. M.
Published: December 2019

Introduction. Treatment of open fractures routinely involves multiple surgeries and delayed definitive fracture fixation because of concern for infection. If implants were made less susceptible to infection, a one-stage procedure with intramedullary nailing would be more feasible, which would reduce morbidity and improve outcomes. Methods. In this study, a novel open fracture mouse model was developed using Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and single-stage intramedullary fixation. The model was used to evaluate whether implants coated with a novel “smart” polymer coating containing vancomycin or tigecycline would be colonized by bacteria in an open fracture model infected with S. aureus. In vivo bioluminescence, ex vivo CFUs, and X-ray images were evaluated over a 42-day postoperative period. Results. We found evidence of a markedly decreased bacterial burden with the local release of vancomycin and tigecycline from the PEG-PPS polymer compared to polymer alone. Vancomycin was released in a controlled fashion and maintained local drug concentrations above the minimum inhibition concentration for S. aureus for greater than 7 days postoperatively. Bacteria were reduced 139-fold from implants containing vancomycin and undetected from the bone and soft tissue. Tigecycline coatings led to a 5991-fold reduction in bacteria isolated from bone and soft tissue and 15-fold reduction on the implants compared to polymer alone. Antibiotic coatings also prevented osteomyelitis and implant loosening as observed on X-ray. Conclusion. Vancomycin and tigecycline can be encapsulated in a polymer coating and released over time to maintain therapeutic levels during the perioperative period. Our results suggest that antibiotic coatings can be used to prevent implant infection and osteomyelitis in the setting of open fracture. This novel open fracture mouse model can be used as a powerful in vivo preclinical tool to evaluate and optimize the treatment of open fractures before further studies in humans.
Internal Force Transfer Mechanism and Bearing Capacity of Vertical Stiffener Joints in CFDST Structures
Authors: Zhang Yufen , Zhang Dongfang , Demoha Krushar
Published: December 2019

This paper firstly studied the internal force transfer mechanism of vertical stiffener joints in concrete-filled double steel tubular (CFDST) frame structures on the basis of finite element modeling (FEM). Analytical models of shear force and bending moment were established through the appropriate material constitutive equations and equilibrium theory. Then, the proposed models were used to predict and evaluate the shear and bending resistance of the vertical stiffener joint. Six joint specimens were tested to verify the rationality of the theoretical models, and the design suggestions for construction were subsequently discussed. The analysis indicated that the vertical stiffener together with the anchorage web played a dominated role in the internal force transfer mechanism. The computed bending resistance obtained by the tension model agreed well with the measured experimental data, and the shear resistance in the panel zone was sufficient to guarantee the ductile failure in the test. The vertical stiffener determined the plastic hinge so as to ensure the strong connection between the CFDST column and the steel beam. The ribbed anchorage web was an effective way of increasing the shear and bending resistance.
A Feedback Method to Improve the Dynamic Range and the Linearity of Magnetoimpedance Magnetic Sensor
Authors: He Dongfeng
Published: December 2019

We developed a high-sensitivity magnetoimpedance magnetic field sensor using a FeCoSiB amorphous wire and a coil wound around it. The amorphous wire had the diameter of 0.1 mm and the length of 5 mm. The magnetic field resolution of about 20 pT/√Hz was achieved. But the dynamic range of the magnetoimpedance magnetic field sensor was only about ±0.7 Gauss, which was not enough for some applications, such as the defect evaluation of steel plate. The linearity of the system was also not good when big magnetic field was applied, which will cause some noise when the system is used in unshielded environment. We developed a feedback method to improve the dynamic range and the linearity of the magnetic field sensor. The operation point of the magnetic field sensor was fixed by sending a feedback current to the coil. Using the feedback method, the dynamic range was improved from ±0.7 Gauss to ±10 Gauss and the linearity was also improved over 100 times better. An eddy current testing system using the magnetic sensor was developed, and the crack defects in steel plate and in 3D-printed titanium alloy plate were evaluated.
Pore Structure Characterization of Hardened Cement Paste by Multiple Methods
Authors: Song Yang , Zhou Jun-wen , Bian Zheng-ning , Dai Guo-zhong
Published: December 2019

Pore structure characterization of hardened cement paste is important to concrete mechanical and transport properties. Hence, we apply indirect methods (NS, MIP, and NMR) and direct methods (XCT, FIB/SEM, and HIM) to provide a general view of the pore structure of hardened cement paste. The results show that the 3D pore network of hardened cement paste is isolated in microscale yet is largely connected by large capillary pores, small capillary pores, and microcracks in nanoscale. In indirect methods, MIP and NMR have a wide measurement range and permit observing most of the porous volume with an average porosity of 8.4–9.9% of hardened cement paste. In contrast, direct methods have a relatively narrow measurement range and thus lead to a large porosity scattering of 1.8–16.4%. The pore size distribution (PSD) curves by indirect methods show that the pore structure is mainly concentrated in three sections of 1–10 nm, 10–100 nm, and around 10 μm, which correspond to the imaging range of HIM, FIB/SEM, and XCT. However, FIB/SEM implies that the most porous part of hardened cement paste (10–100 nm) is underestimated by MIP due to the “ink-bottle” effect. Another “underestimation” of NMR is because C-S-H gels swell during the wetting, and the swelling separates the capillary pores into smaller ones. The microcracks induced by sample preparation contribute 0.1-0.2% (XCT) and 4.5–8.1% (FIB/SEM) of porosity to the porous volume of cement paste, but they have limited influence on the pore size distribution and pore connectivity.
Synthesis and Application of Fe-Doped TiO2-Halloysite Nanotubes Composite and Their Potential Application in Water Treatment
Authors: Nyankson Emmanuel , Agyei-Tuffour Benjamin , Adjasoo Jonas , Ebenezer Annan , Dodoo-Arhin David , Yaya Abu , Mensah Bismark , Efavi Johnson Kwame
Published: December 2019

In this work, the potential application of TiO2-Fe-HNT photocatalyst-adsorbent composite in water treatment technologies was confirmed. The photocatalyst-adsorbent composite (TiO2-Fe-HNTs) was synthesized by the hydrothermal method and characterized by X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The adsorption and photocatalysis mechanism by the TiO2-Fe-HNT composite were examined on methylene blue dye, rhodamine blue dye, naproxen sodium (pharmaceutical drug waste), and imidacloprid (pesticide). The TiO2-Fe-HNT composite was active in UV and visible regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The adsorption and photocatalytic efficiency increased with increasing amount of HNTs. The photocatalyst-adsorbent composite exhibited excellent removal efficiency for pharmaceutical waste (naproxen sodium) and pesticides (imidacloprid). An adsorption equilibrium data fitted well with the pseudo-second-order kinetics for both methylene blue and rhodamine blue dyes with the intraparticle model describing its rate-controlling steps. The Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models further described the adsorption of methylene blue and rhodamine blue molecules, respectively.
Hygiene and Sanitation Practices and the Risk of Morbidity among Children 6–23 Months of Age in Kumbungu District, Ghana
Authors: Azupogo Fusta , Abdul-Rahaman Fadilatu , Gyanteh Beatrice , Atosona Ambrose
Published: December 2019

Background. Poor hygiene and sanitation (WASH) practices are characterised by the manifestation of disease and infections, notably diarrhoea and respiratory tract infections (RTIs) among children. This study aimed to assess the influence of WASH practices on the occurrence of diarrhoea and RTIs among children 6–23 months of age.Methods. An analytical cross-sectional study design was conducted in June 2017. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select 300 mothers/caregivers with children aged 6–23 months from 9 communities in the Kumbungu District. We assessed the WASH practices, socio-demographic characteristics of the households and the occurrence of diarrhoea and RTIs among the children with a semi-structured questionnaire. The Hygiene Improvement Framework observational guide was adapted for household sanitation. Backward binary multiple logistic regression was used to determine the WASH practices that significantly predicted morbidity.Results. About 53% and 55.3% of the children reportedly experienced diarrhoea and RTIs, respectively, two weeks before the survey. Caregiver handwashing with soap after defecation [OR = 0.32 (95% C.I: 0.19, 0.52)] and before feeding [OR = 0.50 (95% C.I: 0.30, 0.84)] as well as washing the child’s hands with or without soap before feeding [OR = 0.21 (95% C.I: 0.04, 1.01)] were associated with lower odds of diarrhoea morbidity. The main determinants of RTI morbidity included caregiver handwashing with or without soap after defecation [OR = 0.29 (95% C.I: 0.10, 0.81)] and washing of the child’s hands with soap before feeding [OR = 0.60 (95% C.I: 0.37, 0.99)] However, we found no association between household sanitation and diarrhoea as well as RTI among the children.Conclusion. About a half each of the children had diarrhoea and RTI 2 weeks before the survey. The results emphasise the need for urgent targeting of handwashing and waste disposal programmes to avert the high burden of diarrhoea and RTIs among children.
Identification of Monotonically Differentially Expressed Genes for IFN-β-Treated Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Tian Suyan , Zhang Lei
Published: December 2019

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common neurological disability of the central nervous system. Immune-modulatory therapy with interferon-β (IFN-β) has been used as a first-line treatment to prevent relapses in MS patients. While the therapeutic mechanism of IFN-β has not been fully elucidated, the data of microarray experiments that collected longitudinal gene expression profiles to evaluate the long-term response of IFN-β treatment have been analyzed using statistical methods that were incapable of dealing with such data. In this study, the GeneRank method was applied to generate weighted gene expression values and the monotonically expressed genes (MEGs) for both IFN-β treatment responders and nonresponders were identified. The proposed procedure identified 13 MEGs for the responders and 2 MEGs for the nonresponders, most of which are biologically relevant to MS. Our work here provides some useful insight into the mechanism of IFN-β treatment for MS patients. A full understanding of the therapeutic mechanism will enable a more personalized treatment strategy possible.
One-Pot Hydrothermal Synthesis of Thin Tellurene Nanosheet and Its Formation Mechanism
Authors: Gao Mei , Wang Xinwei , Hong Yuanze , Shi Yongji , Wang Dengkui , Fang Dan , Fang Xuan , Wei Zhipeng
Published: December 2019

Two-dimensional thin tellurene (Te) was effectively synthesized by a one-pot hydrothermal reduction process. It had the hexagonal phase with good crystallization, the extent of radiation absorption (400-850 nm), and a 1.37 eV band gap. Based on the evolution of the crystal structure and morphology, the formation mechanism of Te nanomaterials has been speculated by the time-dependent reactions as the nucleation of nanosized clusters first, then self-assembly into uniform nanowires, and, finally, formation into the nanosheets in the presence of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). It is expected that thin Te nanosheets can further be used in the field of photoelectric applications.
How Does Myofascial Physical Therapy Attenuate Pain in Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome?
Authors: Grinberg Keren , Weissman-Fogel Irit , Lowenstein Lior , Abramov Liora , Granot Michal
Published: December 2019

Background. Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) is a multifactorial disorder comprising structural and functional muscular abnormalities, a dysfunctional pain system, and psychological distress. Myofascial physical Therapy (MPT) that is targeted at improving pelvic muscle functioning is considered a first line nonpharmacological treatment for CPPS, although the precise mechanisms that lead to symptoms alleviation have not yet been elucidated. Purpose. This longitudinal study aimed to examine the local and systemic effects of MPT intervention, including biopsychophysiological processes, among CPPS patients. Methods. The study included 50 CPPS women. Morphologic assessment of the levator ani and quantitative sensory testing of the pain system were applied alongside with evaluation of pain-related psychological factors using designated questionnaires. All measures were evaluated both before and after MPT in 39 patients. The long-term effects of MPT were evaluated by clinical pain reports obtained at 3 and 9 months following MPT that were compared with a nontreated group of 11 untreated CPPS women. Results. Along with an improvement in the clinical pain intensity (p=0.001) and sensitivity to experimental pain tests (p=0.001) following MPT, the results also indicate that MPT has anatomical, psychological, and social therapeutic effects (p=0.04; p=0.001; p=0.01, respectively). Furthermore, clinical pain evaluation at 3 and 9 months after MPT revealed a significant improvement in women who received treatment (p=0.001). Conclusions. The findings of this pilot study suggest multisystemic (direct and indirect anatomical, neurophysiological, and psychological) effects of MPT on the multifactorial pain disorder of CPPS and therefore place MPT as a mechanism-based intervention.
Hair Growth Promoting Effect of Dicerocaryum senecioides Phytochemicals
Authors: Rambwawasvika H. , Dzomba P. , Gwatidzo L.
Published: December 2019

Phytochemicals from Dicerocaryum senecioides were studied for hair rejuvenation activity using BalB/c mice. Solvent extractions and thin layer chromatography (TLC) were used to extract and isolate the phytochemicals respectively. Phytochemicals were identified by spraying with target-specific revealing reagents. In vivo hair growth stimulating activity for each extract was tested on denuded dorsal skin of 5-week old BalB/c mice against the controls and the standard drug minoxidil. The parameters used to evaluate hair growth were hair growth completion time, hair length, hair weight, hair follicle length, and relative hair follicle area. The identified phytochemicals from the active ethanol extract were steroidal glycosides, triterpenoid glycosides, and flavonoid glycosides. Flavonoid glycosides treatment had the uppermost hair rejuvenation capacity as measured by the shortest hair growth completion time (19 days) versus control (29 days) and longest hair length (11.04 mm and 11.86 mm for male and female mice respectively while the control group had 5.15 mm for male mice and 5.33 mm for female mice). Hair growth stimulation by flavonoid glycosides was also dependent on dose concentration. It can be concluded from this study that flavonoid glycosides extracted from the leaves of Dicerocaryum senecioides have remarkable hair rejuvenation capacity in BalB/c mice. The present results provides insights on the use of Dicerocaryum senecioides for hair rejuvenation in traditional practices and on the potential of the plant as a source of novel compounds that can be used as hair growth promoters.
Brainstem and Cerebellar Involvement in Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
Authors: Letchuman Vijay , Donohoe Charles D.
Published: December 2019

We present a case of a 62-year-old Caucasian male with laryngeal cancer and Ramsay Hunt Syndrome otherwise known as herpes zoster oticus due to reactivation of the varicella zoster virus. Classic findings include the triad of ipsilateral facial paralysis, otic pain, and herpetic lesions in the sensory supply of the facial nerve. The common pathogenesis is associated with anterograde axonal reactivation of the varicella zoster virus in the geniculate ganglion. Unique features of our case include retrograde transaxonal spread of the varicella-zoster virus from the geniculate ganglion into the brainstem and cerebellum including involvement of the abducens nucleus, facial nucleus, middle cerebral peduncle, and inferior cerebellar peduncle. This presented as left facial paralysis, left sixth nerve palsy, horizontal diplopia to the left lateral gaze, profound truncal ataxia, and left-sided dysmetria. Clinical awareness that Ramsay Hunt syndrome may also involve the brainstem and cerebellum is critical in evaluating the clinical neurologic findings and expanding the diagnostic workup to include brain magnetic resonance imaging and cerebrospinal fluid analysis, including varicella zoster polymerase chain reaction. Encephalitis requires longer duration administration of high-dose intravenous acyclovir in conjunction with steroids. Delays in treatment are often associated with unsatisfactory outcomes with extensive residual deficits.
Smart Wound Hydration Monitoring Using Biosensors and Fuzzy Inference System
Authors: Sattar Hina , Bajwa Imran Sarwar , ul Amin Riaz , Muhammad Jan , Mushtaq Muhammad Faheem , Kazmi Rafaqut , Akram Muhammad , Ashraf Muhammad , Shafi Umar
Published: December 2019

Skin wounds either minor or chronic may heal up with different time durations. But, this time duration of healing could not be easily predicted as healing is affected by different factors, e.g., age, nutrition, medication, and surroundings. Despite these factors, wound characteristic also plays a role in the healing process. Wound characteristics include wound size, wound type, internal and external wound environment, body temperature, body oxygenation, wound hydration, and infection. Therefore, monitoring of wound healing also required careful consideration of wound characteristics. Although the healthcare domain contains many applications for detection and monitoring of diseases, the wound care domain requires efficient techniques and sensing systems for the identification of wound biomarkers such as temperature, blood pressure, oxygen, and infection status of wound using biosensors. In the current research, we provide a wound care solution based on a biosensor-based sensing system to measure basic biomarkers, considered as major wound characteristics, i.e., body temperature and body oxygenation, and design a fuzzy inference system to predict their effect on wound hydration, which ultimately recommends necessary actions to boost healing.
Improved Adaptive Holonic Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Li Hao , Jin Hongbin , Wang Hanzhong , Ma Yanyan
Published: December 2019

For the first time , the Holonic Particle Swarm Optimization (HPSO ) algorithm applies multiagent theory about the improvement in the PSO algorithm and achieved good results. In order to further improve the performance of the algorithm, this paper proposes an improved Adaptive Holonic Particle Swarm Optimization (AHPSO) algorithm. Firstly, a brief review of the HPSO algorithm is carried out, and the HPSO algorithm can be further studied in three aspects: grouping strategy, iteration number setting, and state switching discrimination. The HPSO algorithm uses an approximately uniform grouping strategy that is the simplest but does not consider the connections between particles. And if the particles with larger or smaller differences are grouped together in different search stages, the search efficiency will be improved. Therefore, this paper proposes a grouping strategy based on information entropy and system clustering and combines two grouping strategies with corresponding search methods. The performance of the HPSO algorithm depends on the setting of the number of iterations. If it is too small, it is difficult to search for the optimal and it wastes so many computing resources. Therefore, this paper constructs an adaptive termination condition that causes the particles to terminate spontaneously after convergence. The HPSO algorithm only performs a conversion from extensive search to exact search and still has the potential to fall into local optimum. This paper proposes a state switching condition to improve the probability that the algorithm jumps out of the local optimum. Finally, AHPSO and HPSO are compared by using 22 groups of standard test functions. AHPSO is faster in convergence than HPSO, and the number of iterations of AHPSO convergence is employed in HPSO. At this point, there exists a large gap between HPSO and the optimal solution, i.e., AHPSO can have better algorithm efficiency without setting the number of iterations.
Brazeability, Microstructure, and Joint Characteristics of ZrO2/Ti-6Al-4V Brazed by Ag-Cu-Ti Filler Reinforced with Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Sharma Ashutosh , Ahn Byungmin
Published: December 2019

In this work, we have attempted to develop the Ag-Cu-Ti filler for bonding ZrO2 to Ti-6Al-4V. The CeO2 nanoparticles were reinforced in the eutectic Ag-Cu-Ti filler via mechanical mixing and melting route. Furthermore, the brazeability, microstructure, and mechanical behavior, as well as brazing performance of the ZrO2/Ti-6Al-4V joints, were assessed. The wettability of the Ag-Cu-Ti matrix was increased from 89 to 98% on Ti-6Al-4V and from 83 to 89% on the ZrO2 substrate after the addition of 0.05% CeO2. Also, there was a depression in the melting point of the composite fillers up to 3°C. The microstructure consists of Cu- and Ag-rich phases and Cu-Ti intermetallic compounds (IMCs). The joint shear strength was improved with the addition of CeO2 up to 0.05 wt.% in the matrix. It was inferred that, for an excellent brazing performance of the ZrO2/Ti-6Al-4V joint, the optimum amount of CeO2 should be 0.05 wt.% in the Ag-Cu-Ti matrix.
Metabolic Imaging Using Hyperpolarized Pyruvate–Lactate Exchange Assesses Response or Resistance to the EGFR Inhibitor Cetuximab in Patient-Derived HNSCC Xenografts
Authors: Mignion Lionel , Acciardo Stefania , Gourgue Florian , Joudiou Nicolas , Caignet Xavier , Goebbels Rose-Marie , Corbet Cyril , Feron Olivier , Bouzin Caroline , Cani Patrice D. , Machiels Jean-Pascal , Schmitz Sandra , Jordan Bénédicte F.
Published: December 2019

Purpose:

Optimal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patient selection for anti–EGFR-based therapy remains an unmet need since only a minority of patients derive long-term benefit from cetuximab treatment. We assessed the ability of state-of-the-art noninvasive in vivo metabolic imaging to probe metabolic shift in cetuximab-sensitive and -resistant HNSCC patient-derived tumor xenografts (PDTXs).

Experimental Design:

Three models selected based on their known sensitivity to cetuximab in patients (cetuximab-sensitive or acquired-resistant HNC007 PDTXs, cetuximab-naïve UCLHN4 PDTXs, and cetuximab-resistant HNC010 PDTXs) were inoculated in athymic nude mice.

Results:

Cetuximab induced tumor size stabilization in mice for 4 weeks in cetuximab-sensitive and -naïve models treated with weekly injections (30 mg/kg) of cetuximab. Hyperpolarized 13C-pyruvate–13C-lactate exchange was significantly decreased in vivo in cetuximab-sensitive xenograft models 8 days after treatment initiation, whereas it was not modified in cetuximab-resistant xenografts. Ex vivo analysis of sensitive tumors resected at day 8 after treatment highlighted specific metabolic changes, likely to participate in the decrease in the lactate to pyruvate ratio in vivo. Diffusion MRI showed a decrease in tumor cellularity in the HNC007-sensitive tumors, but failed to show sensitivity to cetuximab in the UCLHN4 model.

Conclusions:

This study constitutes the first in vivo demonstration of cetuximab-induced metabolic changes in cetuximab-sensitive HNSCC PDTXs that were not present in resistant tumors. Using metabolic imaging, we were able to identify hyperpolarized 13C-pyruvate as a potential marker for response and resistance to the EGFR inhibitor in HNSCC.
Cross-talk between Colon Cells and Macrophages Increases ST6GALNAC1 and MUC1-sTn Expression in Ulcerative Colitis and Colitis-Associated Colon Cancer
Authors: Kvorjak Michael , Ahmed Yasmine , Miller Michelle L. , Sriram Raahul , Coronnello Claudia , Hashash Jana G. , Hartman Douglas J. , Telmer Cheryl A. , Miskov-Zivanov Natasa , Finn Olivera J. , Cascio Sandra
Published: December 2019

Patients with ulcerative colitis have an increased risk of developing colitis-associated colon cancer (CACC). Changes in glycosylation of the oncoprotein MUC1 commonly occur in chronic inflammation, including ulcerative colitis, and this abnormally glycosylated MUC1 promotes cancer development and progression. It is not known what causes changes in glycosylation of MUC1. Gene expression profiling of myeloid cells in inflamed and malignant colon tissues showed increased expression levels of inflammatory macrophage–associated cytokines compared with normal tissues. We analyzed the involvement of macrophage-associated cytokines in the induction of aberrant MUC1 glycoforms. A coculture system was used to examine the effects of M1 and M2 macrophages on glycosylation-related enzymes in colon cancer cells. M2-like macrophages induced the expression of the glycosyltransferase ST6GALNAC1, an enzyme that adds sialic acid to O-linked GalNAc residues, promoting the formation of tumor-associated sialyl-Tn (sTn) O-glycans. Immunostaining of ulcerative colitis and CACC tissue samples confirmed the elevated number of M2-like macrophages as well as high expression of ST6GALNAC1 and the altered MUC1-sTn glycoform on colon cells. Cytokine arrays and blocking antibody experiments indicated that the macrophage-dependent ST6GALNAC1 activation was mediated by IL13 and CCL17. We demonstrated that IL13 promoted phosphorylation of STAT6 to activate transcription of ST6GALNAC1. A computational model of signaling pathways was assembled and used to test IL13 inhibition as a possible therapy. Our findings revealed a novel cellular cross-talk between colon cells and macrophages within the inflamed and malignant colon that contributes to the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis and CACC.

See related Spotlight on p. 160
Perforated Jejunal Diverticulitis
Authors: Gurala Dhineshreddy , Idiculla Pretty Sara , Patibandla Prateek , Philipose Jobin , Krzyzak Michael , Mukherjee Indraneil
Published: December 2019

Small intestinal diverticula are very rare; their incidence ranges from 0.06 to 1.3%, with a higher prevalence after the 6th decade of life. Among these small intestinal diverticula, duodenal diverticula are more frequent, followed by diverticula of the jejunum and ileum. A jejunal diverticulum is usually asymptomatic; sometimes patients complain of vague chronic symptoms like malabsorption, pain, or nausea that easily lead to misdiagnosis. Complications are rarely reported, only in 10% of patients. We report a unique case of a 70-year-old female who presented with confusion due to sepsis from perforated jejunal diverticulitis, which was successfully managed with initial resuscitation and definitive surgery.
A Case of Pure Mucinous Breast Carcinoma in a 25-Year-Old Female Who Showed Complete Pathological Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy despite Poor Clinical Response
Authors: Du Pei , Hou Chunjie , Tang Jinglan , Liu Ying , Hu Qiaohong , He Hongfeng , Lu Kefeng , Chen Lucou
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Mucinous breast carcinoma is a rare histologic subtype of primary breast cancers accounting for 1–6%. It is a rare histological variant in young patients and usually presents without lymph node involvement, and its pathological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy is rarely reported. Case Presentation: Pure mucinous breast carcinoma in a 25-year-old female was treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy every 3 weeks for 8 cycles. After the fifth cycle, the mass size showed no change. We performed modified radical mastectomy in the left breast and axillary lymph node clearance. However, the pathological report showed a complete elimination of both the breast tumor and axillary lymph nodes, which were filled with mucus but did not contain malignant cells Discussion: Chemotherapy was profoundly effective against the tumor cells, but ineffective against large amounts of extracellular mucus. Even though the cancer cells were sensitive to chemotherapy, the volume of mucinous cancer couldnot be reduced. Conclusion: In summary, the evaluation criteria of tumor response to chemotherapy based on maximum diameter only should be considered insufficient for mucinous carcinoma.
Endometriumkarzinom: Sentinel-Lymphonodektomie gewinnt an Bedeutung
Authors: Pölcher Martin
Published: December 2019

Objective: To identify predictors of unsuccessful sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping in patients with apparent early-stage endometrial cancer (EC) undergoing surgical staging with cervical injection of indocyanine green and SLN biopsy. Methods: We retrospectively identified consecutive patients with EC with attempted SLN biopsy between June 2014 and June 2016 at our institution. Patients were grouped according to whether they had a successful procedure, defined as the bilateral identification of SLNs, or an unsuccessful procedure, defined as unilateral or no SLN mapping. Logistic regression was used to evaluate predictors of an unsuccessful procedure. Results: Among 327 patients included in the analysis, 256 (78.3%) had a successful procedure and 71 (21.7%) had an unsuccessful procedure (15.0% unilateral SLN mapping, 6.7% no mapping). The rate of successful procedure increased from 57.7% to 83.3% between the first and last quarters of the 2-year study period, which represented the learning curve for the technique. The mean (SD) operative time decreased from 164 (55) to 137 (37) minutes. By multivariable analysis, lysis of adhesions at the beginning of surgery (odds ratio, 3.07; 95% CI, 1.56-6.07) and the presence of enlarged lymph nodes (odds ratio, 4.69; 95% CI, 1.82-12.11) were independently associated with an unsuccessful procedure. Conclusions: : Lysis of adhesions at the beginning of surgery and the presence of enlarged lymph nodes independently affect the bilateral detection of SLNs.