bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solitons in discrete linear chains of chiral smectic liquid crystals with competing interactions
Authors: Dikandé Alain M. , Nyanga Bernard Y. , Tchouobiap S. E. Mkam
Published: November 2018

Chiral liquid crystals exhibit in-plane spontaneous polarizations, however, in their smectic (Sm) phase the primary-order parameter is the tilt vector associated with molecular rotations around the long axis parallel to the molecular directors. These molecular rotations can lead to several distinct phases among which an incommensurate order with a domain-wall texture is referred to as soliton. In this study, the formation of domain walls in smectic chiral (SmC) liquid crystals is analyzed, with emphasis on the competition between an Ising-like symmetric intermolecular interaction, an anti-symmetric intermolecular interaction due to molecular chirality and an applied in-plane electric field. It is found that the anti-symmetric intermolecular interaction increases the width of kink structures in the domain wall at moderate intensity of the y-component of the applied in-plane electric field. Increasing the x-component of the electric field creates unstable condition for soliton formation irrespective of magnitudes of the symmetric and chiral intermolecular interactions. The stability condition for single-kink structures in the discrete molecular chain is discussed, by estimating the Peierls stress experienced by the single-kink soliton. Results suggest that chirality lowers the Peierls–Nabarro barrier, hence increasing the lifetime of single-kink structures in the discrete medium.
Discontinuous Precipitation of Nano-Al3Sc Particles in Al-Sc Alloy and Its Effect on Mechanical Property
Authors: Zhang Weigui , Wu Yanmiao , Lu Hongyu , Lao Guanqing , Wang Ke , Ye Yicong , Li Peijie
Published: November 2018

Discontinuous reaction of nano-Al3Sc particles in Al-Sc alloys is investigated in detail, with a goal of developing high-level Sc-containing Al alloys used for aerospace and aeronautics industry. This reaction is of interest because it generally has a deleterious effect on the mechanical property of materials. Requirements for the occurrence of discontinuous precipitation in this Al-Sc alloy are distinct from the prior investigations of other Al-Sc alloys. It was found that discontinuous precipitation of nano-Al3Sc particles occurred widely when the alloys were aged at the intermediate temperature ranges of 300–400∘C, while did not occur at relatively low (250∘C) and high (500∘C) temperatures. The discontinuous precipitation of nano-Al3Sc particles can be suppressed by continuous precipitation through controlling the heat treatment process, which helps to control the microstructures of the Al-Sc alloys. Furthermore, the effects of both continuous precipitation and discontinuous precipitation of nano-Al3Sc particles on the hardness of Al-Sc alloys were discussed. Finally, the morphologies of these nano-Al3Sc particles were also analyzed.
Overview of Gc Tests Used to Evaluate Composite–Composite Adhesive Joints
Authors: Cañas José , Távara Luis , Blázquez Antonio , Estefani Alejandro
Published: November 2018

The quality of composite–composite bonded joints is a very important issue for industries, especially for the aerospace sector. A deficient joint may stop the manufacturing process and its repairing may include very high costs. Nowadays, the quality of the joint is obtained by means of interlaminar fracture toughness tests, estimating the [Formula: see text] value (Energy Release Rate used to produce crack propagation) over coupons with (theoretically) the same conditions as those included in an actual part. Usually, [Formula: see text] is obtained by means of a Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) test. Although DCB is the reference test, it may present some drawbacks when a non-symmetrical coupon is used and when the adherents stiffness is low. An alternative to DCB is the Climbing Drum Peel (CDP) test which is able to address some of the DCB drawbacks. Nevertheless, both tests need the use of a universal testing machine, then they cannot be done in situ. In the present investigation, DCB and CDP main characteristics are analyzed and a new device, called Horizontal Drum Peel (HDP), which includes the advantages of previous tests and the possibility to perform the test over an actual part is presented.
Statistical Methods for Naturalistic Driving Studies
Authors: Guo Feng
Published: November 2018

The naturalistic driving study (NDS) is an innovative research method characterized by the continuous recording of driving information using advanced instrumentation under real-world driving conditions. NDSs provide opportunities to assess driving risks that are difficult to evaluate using traditional crash database or experimental methods. NDS findings have profound impacts on driving safety research, safety countermeasures development, and public policy. NDSs also come with attendant challenges to statistical analysis, however, due to the sheer volume of data collected, complex structure, and high cost associated with information extraction. This article reviews statistical and analytical methods for working with NDS data. Topics include the characteristics of NDSs; NDS data components; and epidemiological approaches for video-based risk modeling, including case-cohort and case-crossover study designs, logistic models, Poisson models, and recurrent event models. The article also discusses several key issues related to NDS analysis, such as crash surrogates and alternative reference exposure levels.
Dynamical Analysis of Rumor Spreading Model considering Node Activity in Complex Networks
Authors: Huo Liang’an , Ding Fan , Liu Chen , Cheng Yingying
Published: November 2018

The dynamic models are proposed to investigate the influence node activity has on rumor spreading process in both homogeneous and heterogeneous networks. Different from previous studies, we believe that the activity of nodes in complex networks affects the process of rumor spreading. An active node can have contact with all the nodes it directly links to, while an inactive node could only interact with its active neighbors. We explore the joint effort of activity rate, spreading rate and network topology on rumor spreading process by mean‐field equations and numerical simulations, which reveals that there exists a critical curve consisting of critical activity rate and spreading rate; meanwhile, activity rate and spreading rate both have influence on the final rumor spreading scale.
A Hyperfluorinated Hydrophilic Molecule for Aqueous 19F MRI Contrast Media
Authors: Tanifum Eric A. , Devkota Laxman , Ngwa Conelius , Badachhape Andrew A. , Ghaghada Ketan B. , Romero Jonathan , Pautler Robia G. , Annapragada Ananth V.
Published: November 2018

Fluorine-19 (19F) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has the potential for a wide range of in vivo applications but is limited by lack of flexibility in exogenous probe formulation. Most 19F MRI probes are composed of perfluorocarbons (PFCs) or perfluoropolyethers (PFPEs) with intrinsic properties which limit formulation options. Hydrophilic organofluorine molecules can provide more flexibility in formulation options. We report herein a hyperfluorinated hydrophilic organoflourine, ET1084, with ∼24 wt. % 19F content. It dissolves in water and aqueous buffers to give solutions with ≥8 M 19F. 19F MRI phantom studies at 9.4T employing a 10-minute multislice multiecho (MSME) scan sequence show a linear increase in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) with increasing concentrations of the molecule and a detection limit of 5 mM. Preliminary cytotoxicity and genotoxicity assessments suggest it is safe at concentrations of up to 20 mM.
Socioemotional Dynamics of Emotion Regulation and Depressive Symptoms: A Person‐Specific Network Approach
Authors: Yang Xiao , Ram Nilam , Gest Scott D. , Lydon-Staley David M. , Conroy David E. , Pincus Aaron L. , Molenaar Peter C. M.
Published: November 2018

Socioemotional processes engaged in daily life may afford and/or constrain individuals’ emotion regulation in ways that affect psychological health. Recent findings from experience sampling studies suggest that persistence of negative emotions (emotion inertia), the strength of relations among an individual’s negative emotions (density of the emotion network), and cycles of negative/aggressive interpersonal transactions are related to psychological health. Using multiple bursts of intensive experience sampling data obtained from 150 persons over one year, person‐specific analysis, and impulse response analysis, this study quantifies the complex and interconnected socioemotional processes that surround individuals’ daily social interactions and on‐going regulation of negative emotion in terms of recovery time. We also examine how this measure of regulatory inefficiency is related to interindividual differences and intraindividual change in level of depressive symptoms. Individuals with longer recovery times had higher overall level of depressive symptoms. Also, during periods where recovery time of sadness was longer than usual, individuals’ depressive symptoms were also higher than usual, particularly among individuals who experienced higher overall level of stressful life events. The findings and analysis highlight the utility of a person‐specific network approach to study emotion regulation, how regulatory processes change over time, and potentially how planned changes in the configuration of individuals’ systems may contribute to psychological health.
Burden ofHelicobacter pyloriInfections and Associated Risk Factors among Women of Child Bearing Age in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Kitila Kumera Terfa , Sori Lemi Mosisa , Desalegn Daniel Melese , Tullu Kassu Desta
Published: November 2018

Background. Early detection and treatment ofHelicobacter pylori(H. pylori)infection in women of child bearing ages may reduce the risk of maternal health disorder. This study was conducted to determine the burden ofH. pyloriinfections and associated risk factors among women of child bearing ages in Kolfe Keranio Subcity Woreda 9 Health Centers, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.Methods. Facility based cross sectional study design was conducted from April to October 2015. The study recruited 195 pregnant and 137 nonpregnant women with age range of 16-40 years. Sociodemographic data of study participants were collected by structured questionnaire. Venous blood was analyzed to determine hemoglobin,H. pyloristool antigen test kit was used to assessH. pyloriinfection, and fresh fecal (stool) was used to examine intestinal parasites among study subjects. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 19. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression model using odds ratio (OR) at 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. P-value less than 0.05 was taken as statistically significant.Results. The overall burden ofH. pyloriinfection among study participants was 29% (96/332).H. pyloriinfection was statistically significantly associated with pregnancy status (AOR: 1.825, CI (1.42-2.15), P=0.020), history of hyperemesis gravidarum (AOR=7.028, C.I (2.47-19.99), P=0.018), and low hemoglobin value (AOR=0.177, CI (0.083–0.379), p=0.003). There was no statistically significant association betweenH. pyloriinfection and sociodemographic characteristics and some expected risk factors like smoking, Khat chewing, alcohol drinking habit, and presence of intestinal parasites.Conclusion. In this study,H. pyloriinfection was still a public health problem in the study area.H. pyloriinfected women also had high rate of anemia compared to women who had notH. pyloriinfected. Hence clinician and other responsible bodies should give a special attention for women who had been infected withH. pylori. Further large case control studies are warranted to understand more the role ofH. pylori, HG, and other associated risk factors.
Cytokine Effect of TLR3, TLR4, and TLR7 Agonists Alone or Associated withLeishmania infantumAntigen on Blood from Dogs
Authors: Martínez-Orellana Pamela , Montserrat-Sangrà Sara , Quirola-Amores Paulina , González Noemí , Solano-Gallego Laia
Published: November 2018

Activation of toll-like receptors (TLRs) has been shown to play an important role in leishmaniosis by enhancing the parasite specific immune responses to control infection. However, the role of TLR agonists has not been studied in detail in dogs. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of TLR3, TLR4, and TLR7 agonists (TLR3a, TLR4a, and TLR7a) alone or in combination withLeishmania infantumantigen (LSA) on TNF-αand IL-6 production in blood from dogs living in endemic areas of canine leishmaniosis (CanL). Twenty-four healthy dogs from Catalonia (n=14) and Ibizan hound dogs from the island of Mallorca (n=10) were enrolled. Whole blood with TLR3a, TLR4a, and TLR7a alone or combined with LSA were cultured separately, and IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-6 were measured by ELISA. A significant increase of TNF-αwas found for all conditions studied compared to medium alone. Stimulation with TLR4a(p=0.0001)and TLR7a(p=0.005)presented a significantly marked increase in TNF-αand IL-6 production compared to TLR3a. Importantly, significantly higher TNF-αproduction was found in LSA+TLR4a(p=0.0001)stimulated blood and LSA+TLR7a(p=0.005)compared to LSA alone. All dogs showed higher TNF-αproduction after LSA+TLR7a compared to TLR7a(p=0.047)and LSA+TLR3a compared to TLR3a(p=0.052). These data indicate a marked inflammatory cytokine effect of TLR4a and TLR7a on blood from healthy dogs living in endemic areas of CanL. Additionally, LSA+TLR7a promoted a synergistic proinflammatory effect with TNF-αin all dogs. Those findings suggest an active role of TLRs in proinflammatory responses, which might be strongly involved in the process of disease resolution.
Influence of Oxidants on the Stability of Tocopherol in Model Nanoemulsions: Role of Interfacial Membrane Organized by Nonionic Emulsifiers
Authors: Kim Jinhyuk , Song Ha Youn , Choi Seung Jun
Published: November 2018

Nanoemulsions were prepared by using emulsifiers with various sizes of hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups to determine the impact of interfacial characteristics on the stability of α-tocopherol incorporated into the nanoemulsions. The α-tocopherol concentration remaining after 3 weeks of storage at 25°C depended greatly on the type of oxidative stress, which indicated that the environment surrounding the oil droplets could determine the stability of α-tocopherol in nanoemulsions. α-Tocopherol was gradually degraded by radical-mediated oxidation over storage, and approximately 60% of its initial concentration remained after 3 weeks of storage. However, under acid- and iron-mediated oxidation, α-tocopherol concentration steeply decreases for the initial 3-day storage, but the degradation rate of α-tocopherol decreased after 3 days of storage and over 90% of the initial α-tocopherol remained after 3 weeks of storage. Interestingly, and contrary to our expectations, the thickness and/or density of the droplet interfacial membrane rarely affected the stability of α-tocopherol incorporated into nanoemulsions. Although it is difficult to generalize beyond α-tocopherol, we conclude that the properties of oil droplet surfaces had no influence on the storage stability of α-tocopherol encapsulated in the droplets.
Emergentist View on Generative Narrative Cognition: Considering Principles of the Self-Organization of Mental Stories
Authors: Akimoto Taisuke
Published: November 2018

We consider the essence of human intelligence to be the ability to mentally (internally) construct a world in the form of stories through interactions with external environments. Understanding the principles of this mechanism is vital for realizing a human-like and autonomous artificial intelligence, but there are extremely complex problems involved. From this perspective, we propose a conceptual-level theory for the computational modeling of generative narrative cognition. Our basic idea can be described as follows: stories are representational elements forming an agent’s mental world and are also living objects that have the power of self-organization. In this study, we develop this idea by discussing the complexities of the internal structure of a story and the organizational structure of a mental world. In particular, we classify the principles of the self-organization of a mental world into five types of generative actions, i.e., connective, hierarchical, contextual, gathering, and adaptive. An integrative cognition is explained with these generative actions in the form of a distributed multiagent system of stories.
c‐Met Signaling Protects from Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis‐ (NASH‐) Induced Fibrosis in Different Liver Cell Types
Authors: Drescher Hannah K. , Schumacher Fabienne , Schenker Teresa , Baues Maike , Lammers Twan , Hieronymus Thomas , Trautwein Christian , Streetz Konrad L. , Kroy Daniela C.
Published: November 2018

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the most common chronic, progressive liver disease in Western countries. The significance of cellular interactions of the HGF/c‐Met axis in different liver cell subtypes and its relation to the oxidative stress response remains unclear so far. Hence, the present study is aimed at investigating the role of c‐Met and the interaction with the oxidative stress response during NASH development in mice and humans. Conditional c‐Met knockout (KO) lines (LysCre for Kupffer cells/macrophages, GFAPCre for α‐SMA+ and CK19+ cells and MxCre for bone marrow‐derived immune cells) were fed chow and either methionine‐choline‐deficient diet (MCD) for 4 weeks or high‐fat diet (HFD) for 24 weeks. Mice lacking c‐Met either in Kupffer cells, α‐SMA+ and CK19+ cells, or bone marrow‐derived immune cells displayed earlier and faster progressing steatohepatitis during dietary treatments. Severe fatty liver degeneration and histomorphological changes were accompanied by an increased infiltration of immune cells and a significant upregulation of inflammatory cytokine expression reflecting an earlier initiation of steatohepatitis development. In addition, animals with a cell‐type‐specific deletion of c‐Met exhibited a strong generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by dihydroethidium (hydroethidine) (DHE) staining showing a significant increase in the oxidative stress response especially in LysCre/c‐Metmut and MxCre/c‐Metmut animals. All these changes finally lead to earlier and stronger fibrosis progression with strong accumulation of collagen within liver tissue of mice deficient for c‐Met in different liver cell types. The HGF/c‐Met signaling pathway prevents from steatosis development and has a protective function in the progression to steatohepatitis and fibrosis. It conveys an antifibrotic role independent on which cell type c‐Met is missing (Kupffer cells/macrophages, α‐SMA+ and CK19+ cells, or bone marrow‐derived immune cells). These results highlight a global protective capacity of c‐Met in NASH development and progression.
Characterization of Permeability Changes in Coal of High Rank during the CH4-CO2 Replacement Process
Authors: Ni X. M. , Jia Q. F. , Wang Y. B.
Published: November 2018

The influences of coal matrix expansion/contraction and effective stress on the permeability of coal with different thermal maturities are different during the CH4-CO2 replacement process due to different mechanical properties and gas adsorption capacities. To accurately predict the variation law of coal permeability during the CH4-CO2 replacement process, it is critical to understand how the matrix expansion/contraction and effective stress affect the permeability of coal at different thermal maturities during the CH4-CO2 replacement. In this study, the permeability of two coal specimens with anthracite and high-rank bituminous coal during the CH4-CO2 replacement process under different confining and injection pressures was tested using a CBM replacement testing machine. The results demonstrate that with decreasing gas injection pressure, the permeability of the two coal specimens exhibited a U-shaped correlation under different confining pressures. Under the same gas injection pressure, with increasing effective stress, the permeability presented a negative exponential decrease and the permeability of the anthracite decreased more significantly. Moreover, under the same confining pressure, with increasing gas injection pressure, the decreasing permeability agreed with Langmuir curve and the permeability of high-rank bituminous coal was more significantly reduced.
Study on the Stability of the Coal Seam Floor above a Confined Aquifer Using the Structural System Reliability Method
Authors: Lu Haifeng , Liang Xiuyu , Shan Nan , Zhang You-Kuan
Published: November 2018

A quantitative method of structural system reliability was proposed to study the influence of random rock mechanical parameters and loads on the stability of the coal seam floor above confined aquifers. To obtain the reliability probability of the floor, two modes of water-resistant floor failure were suggested as follows: (1) mining completely removed the water-resistant key strata of the floor. In this case, the failure modes were of three main types: mining failure, confined water intrusion, and combined mining failure and intrusion. (2) Failure modes included shear and tensile failures when the thickness of the key strata was greater than 0. On the basis of the elastic thin plate theory, the performance function that calculates the reliability probability of all modes could be obtained. The failure modes were regarded as the series system. The Monte Carlo method was employed to calculate the reliability probability of each failure mode and series system. The results showed that the random rock mechanical parameters and loads of the key strata significantly influence the antiwater inrush capacity of the floor. In addition, the water inrush coefficient and reliability probability can be simultaneously used as the evaluation indexes of water inrush risk. Both these indexes could improve the assessment of the reliability of the floor.
Tolerance of Chromosomal Instability in Cancer: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Gronroos Eva , López-García Carlos
Published: November 2018

Chromosomal instability (CIN) is the result of ongoing changes in the number (aneuploidy) and structure of chromosomes. CIN is induced by chromosome missegregation in mitosis and leads to karyotypic diversity within the cancer cell population, thereby adding to intratumor heterogeneity. Regardless of the overall pro-oncogenic function of CIN, its onset is typically detrimental for cell fitness and thus tumors must develop CIN-tolerance mechanisms in order to propagate. There is overwhelming genetic and functional evidence linking mutations in the tumor suppressor TP53 with CIN-tolerance. However, the pathways leading to p53 activation following chromosome missegregation remain controversial. Recently, additional mechanisms have been identified in CIN-surveillance, resulting in a more complex network of pathways acting independently or in cooperation with p53. Tolerance might also be achieved by modifying aspects of the cancer cell physiology in order to attenuate CIN or by adaptation to the consequences of aneuploid karyotypes. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about p53-dependent and -independent mechanisms of CIN-tolerance in cancer, the adaptations observed in CIN cells buffering CIN levels, its consequences for cellular homeostasis, and the potential of exploiting these adaptations in order to design new cancer therapies.
A New Physiologic Mouse Model of One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass
Authors: Kroh Andreas , Eickhoff Roman M. , Heise Daniel , Alizai Patrick H. , Rheinwalt Karl P. , Neumann Ulf P. , Ulmer Florian T.
Published: November 2018

Background: One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is a modern metabolic operation that has been demonstrated to be a rapid, safe, and effective procedure. As for other bariatric operations, the mechanisms and long-term effects of this procedure remain largely unknown and are difficult to address in human studies. Here, we present a new physiologic mouse model for mechanistic and long-term investigations. Methods: Six-week-old C57Bl/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet for 12 weeks and scheduled for OAGB or sham operation. Mice were observed for 2 weeks after the operation, and weight and metabolic condition were monitored. Results: Six mice were used to adapt the surgical technique. Afterwards, another 7 mice were scheduled for OAGB without further complications. The newly established OAGB procedure resulted in significant weight loss and improvement of glucose metabolism 2 weeks after the operation. Conclusions: The operation presented here is an easy-to-learn and physiologic mouse model of OAGB that can be used for further studies in mice.
Oral Health for Patients with Special Needs: Evaluative Research of the Dental Specialties Centers
Authors: Gavina Victor Pinheiro , Alves Nayara Silva , Alves Francielle Ribeiro , Cortellazzi Karine Laura , Silveira Flávia Maia , Assaf Andréa Videira
Published: November 2018

The Dental Specialties Centers (CEOs) were created within the context of the National Oral Health Policy, and the main function of these establishments is to serve as units of reference in secondary oral health care in the Brazilian national health system (SUS), and they must offer at least the services of stomatology, specialized periodontology, minor oral surgery, endodontics, and attendance to patients with special needs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of the CEOs in the mountain region of the Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil, in the perspective of the patients with special needs care or their companion’s satisfaction. Data were collected from 159 users by using a standardized self-applied individual semi-structured questionnaire. The results indicated a positive evaluation in most of the dimensions, except the accessibility dimension. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed between the services of the following dimensions of quality: accessibility, resoluteness, technical-scientific quality, efficiency, efficacy, and acceptability. The analysis of qualitative data, through the discourse of the collective subject technique (DCS) and social representations, showed five central ideas about users’ satisfaction and dissatisfaction with CEOs services (humanized health care, resoluteness of the service, professional competence, infrastructure and organization of the service, access to the services). In conclusion, most patients with special needs care and their companions were satisfied with specialized dental centers (SDC) services, although there were significant differences among SDCs services in relation to individuals’ satisfaction.
Procoagulant Activity of Red Blood Cell-Derived Microvesicles during Red Cell Storage
Authors: Hashemi Tayer Akbar , Amirizadeh Naser , Ahmadinejad Minoo , Nikougoftar Mahin , Deyhim Mohammad Reza , Zolfaghari Sima
Published: November 2018

Background: Red blood cells (RBCs) undergo structural and biochemical alterations during storage which are collectively called RBC storage lesion and cause a decrease in RBC recovery and survival. During storage, erythrocytes release an increasing number of microvesicles (MVs) that have key roles in biological processes. We aimed to investigate the procoagulant activity (PCA) of RBC-derived MVs during storage. Methods: 20 packed RBCs were stored for up to 42 days. Samples were taken at seven different times and evaluated for the presence of RBC-MVs. MVs were separated, and following filtration flow cytometry was used to characterize RBC-MVs based on the expression of glycophorin A (Gly.A) and annexin V (AnnV) antigens. The coagulant activity of RBC-MVs was tested by clotting time (CT) and PCA assays. Results were compared before and after filtration. Results: Flow cytometry revealed a 17.6-fold increase in RBC-MVs after 6 weeks of storage. Significant correlations were found between AnnV+ MVs and PCA (r = 0.96; p < 0.001), and CT (r = -0.77; p < 0.001) which was associated with increased PCA and shortened CT with RBC aging. Filtration of samples efficiently removed MVs (p < 0.001) and also reduced in vitro PCA of MVs (p < 0.001). Conclusion: RBC-MVs are procoagulant (particularly AnnV+ MVs) Reduction of MVs from RBC concentrates may reduce the risk of transfusion-induced thrombotic complications.
Lectotypification of four names in Sonerila (Melastomataceae)
Authors: RESMI S. , NAMPY SANTHOSH
Published: November 2018

The typification of four names in Sonerila (Melastomataceae): S. rotundifolia, S. scapigera, S. versicolor and S. wallichii, is discussed and lectotypes designated.
Tiny diatoms Minidiscus vodyanitskiyi sp. nov. (Bacillariophyta) from the Sea of Azov and consideration of polygonal areolae pattern
Authors: LYAKH ANTON M. , BEDOSHVILI YEKATERINA D.
Published: November 2018

A new tiny species of Minidiscus, M. vodyanitskiyi, was found in the water column collected from the central part of the Sea of Azov. Its morphology was examined by scanning electron microscopy, described and illustrated. This centric diatom is characterized by: 1) small valve diameter of less than 10 µm; 2) one central fultoportula surrounded by two satellite pores located opposite each other; 3) one rimoportula located one areola away from the central fultoportula which internally appears similar to a slit surrounded by a plan elliptic rim oriented radially or slightly tangentially; 4) 4–6 (10) marginal fultoportulae that are equally spaced on a border between the valve surface and valve mantle; 5) three satellite pores that surround every marginal fultoportula, where a central satellite pore is directed towards the valve margin; 6) hexa- or heptagonal pattern of valve areolae; and 7) a hyaline conical flange connects the cingulum with the valve. The new species is compared with similar ones. A new term ‘polygonal areolae pattern’ is proposed instead of ‘eccentric pattern’. The term emphasizes that the pattern comprises concentric polygons formed by tangential areolae rows. Its qualitative characteristic, ‘polygonality’, has been described which allows more precise differentiation of the geometry of the valve pattern and describing areolae size variability.
Typification of Cyperus exaltatus (Cyperaceae) and notes on its identity
Authors: MALLICK TANMOY , NASKAR SAIKAT , GHOSH ASOK
Published: November 2018

The name Cyperus exaltatus is here lectotypified. This species is highly variable as revealed from its potential type material and sometimes the species treated as synonymous with C. imbricatus and C. fastigiatus. This issue has been discussed.          Keywords: C. imbricatus, C. fastigiatus, König, lectotype, Retzius
Novelties in the genus Alchornea (Euphorbiaceae)
Authors: MURILLO-ALDANA JOSÉ
Published: November 2018

Three new species of Alchornea from Colombia and Peru are proposed. Alchornea conceveiboides (Colombia) is characterized by abundant minute papillae on the lower surface of the blade, A. tenuinervia (Colombia) by inconspicuous higher orders of venation, and A. verticillata (Colombia, Peru) by leaves arranged in whorls of three. In addition, A. acroneura, which was previously included under A. triplinervia, is re-established, and A. valleana is excluded of Alchornea. All species are described and illustrated. Additional comments regarding their distribution are presented.
The genus Hylaeus Fabricius in Central Asia (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Colletidae)
Authors: DATHE HOLGER H. , PROSHCHALYKIN MAXIM YU.
Published: November 2018

All presently available information about bees of the genus Hylaeus F. in Central Asia is summarized. Seventy species are currently known from this area. Ten new species are described: Hylaeus gissariensis Dathe & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Tajikistan), H. karagandicus Dathe & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Kazakhstan), H. kirgisicus Dathe & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Kyrgyzstan), H. klausnitzeri Dathe & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Kyrgyzstan), H. michaelis Dathe & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Kyrgyzstan), H. murgabensis Dathe & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Tajikistan), H. pamirensis Dathe & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Tajikistan), H. petzi Dathe & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Tajikistan), H. piotris Dathe & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan), and H. rushanicus Dathe & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Uzbekistan, Tajikistan). In addition, the male of H. punctiventris Morawitz, 1876 is described for the first time.—Twenty species are newly recorded from Central Asia: Hylaeus alexandrinus (Warncke, 1992), H. annulatus (Linnaeus, 1758), H. araxanus (Warncke, 1981), H. brevicornis Nylander, 1852, H. cardioscapus Cockerell, 1924, H. dorni Dathe, 1986, H. gredleri Förster, 1871, H. kozlovi Dathe & Proshchalykin, 2016, H. leleji Proshchalykin & Dathe, 2016, H. lineolatus (Schenck, 1861), H. longimaculus (Alfken, 1936), H. mellon Dathe & Proshchalykin, 2016, H. meridionalis Förster, 1871, H. moricei (Friese, 1898), H. nimbatus Dathe, 1986, H. paulus Bridwell, 1919, H. pesenkoi Proshchalykin & Dathe, 2016, H. rugicollis Morawitz, 1874, H. stubbei Dathe, 1986 and H. tsingtauensis (Strand, 1915).—New synonymy has been established for Hylaeus arenarius Morawitz, 1876 (= Prosopis cinerea Warncke, 1992, syn. nov.), Hylaeus ferghanicus Morawitz, 1876 (= H. kuhlmanni Dathe, 2010, syn. nov.) and Hylaeus punctiventris Morawitz, 1876 (= H. atrocallosus Morawitz, 1893, syn. nov.). Hylaeus (Nesoprosopis) alexandrinus (Warncke, 1992) and Hylaeus (Prosopis) stellatus (Warncke, 1992) are introduced as new combinations.—Keys to most species known from Central Asia are provided.
Comparison of the efficacy of three cervical collars in restricting cervical range of motion: A randomized study
Authors: Kim Jae Guk , Bang Sung Hwan , Kang Gu Hyun , Jang Yong Soo , Kim Wonhee , Choi Hyun Young , Kim Gyoung Mo
Published: November 2018

Background:

The cervical collar has been used as a common device for the initial stabilization of the cervical spine. Although many cervical collars are commercially available, there is no consensus on which offers the greatest protection, with studies showing considerable variations in their ability to restrict cervical range of motion. The use of the XCollar (Emegear, Carpinteria, CA) has been known to decrease the risk of spinal cord injury by minimizing potential cervical spinal distraction. We compared XCollar with two other cervical collars commonly used for adult patients with cervical spine injury to evaluate the difference in effectiveness between the three cervical collars to restrict cervical range of motion.

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate the difference between the three cervical collars in their ability to restrict cervical range of motion.

Method:

A total of 30 healthy university students aged 21–25 years participated in this study. Participants with any cervical disease and symptoms were excluded. Three cervical collars were tested: Philadelphia® Collar, Stifneck® Select™ Collar, and XCollar. A digital camera and an image-analysis technique were used to evaluate cervical range of motion during flexion, extension, bilateral bending and bilateral axial rotation. Cervical range of motion was evaluated in both the unbraced and braced condition.

Results:

XCollar permitted less than a mean of 10° of movement during flexion, extension, bilateral bending and bilateral axial rotation. This was less than the movement permitted by the other two cervical collars.

Conclusion:

XCollar presented superior cervical immobilization compared to the other two commonly used cervical collars in this study. Thus, when cervical collar is considered for an adult patient with cervical spine injury, XCollar might be one of the considerate options as a cervical immobilization device.
Physiological Responses and Perceived Exertion During Robot-Assisted and Body Weight–Supported Gait After Stroke
Authors: Lefeber Nina , De Keersmaecker Emma , Henderix Stieven , Michielsen Marc , Kerckhofs Eric , Swinnen Eva
Published: November 2018

Introduction. Physiological responses are rarely considered during walking after stroke and if considered, only during a short period (3-6 minutes). The aims of this study were to examine physiological responses during 30-minute robot-assisted and body weight–supported treadmill and overground walking and compare intensities with exercise guidelines. Methods. A total of 14 ambulatory stroke survivors (age: 61 ± 9 years; time after stroke: 2.8 ± 2.8 months) participated in 3 separate randomized walking trials. Patients walked overground, on a treadmill, and in the Lokomat (60% robotic guidance) for 30 minutes at matched speeds (2.0 ± 0.5 km/h) and matched levels of body weight support (BWS; 41% ± 16%). Breath-by-breath gas analysis, heart rate, and perceived exertion were assessed continuously. Results. Net oxygen consumption, net carbon dioxide production, net heart rate, and net minute ventilation were about half as high during robot-assisted gait as during body weight–supported treadmill and overground walking ( P < .05). Net minute ventilation, net breathing frequency, and net perceived exertion significantly increased between 6 and 30 minutes (respectively, 1.8 L/min, 2 breaths/min, and 3.8 units). During Lokomat walking, exercise intensity was significantly below exercise recommendations; during body weight–supported overground and treadmill walking, minimum thresholds were reached (except for percentage of heart rate reserve during treadmill walking). Conclusion. In ambulatory stroke survivors, the oxygen and cardiorespiratory demand during robot-assisted gait at constant workload are considerably lower than during overground and treadmill walking at matched speeds and levels of body weight support. Future studies should examine how robotic devices can be Future studies should examine how robotic devices can be exploited to induce aerobic exercise.
Long non-coding RNA DANCR promotes malignant phenotypes of bladder cancer cells by modulating the miR-149/MSI2 axis as a ceRNA
Authors: Zhan Yonghao , Chen Zhicong , Li Yifan , He Anbang , He Shiming , Gong Yanqing , Li Xuesong , Zhou Liqun
Published: November 2018

Background

Accumulating evidences have indicated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are potential biomarkers that play key roles in tumor development and progression. Differentiation antagonizing non-protein noding RNA (DANCR) is a novel lncRNA that acts as a potential biomarker and is involved in the development of cancers. However, the clinical significance and molecular mechanism of DANCR in bladder cancer is still unknown.

Methods

The relative expression level of DANCR was determined by Real-Time qPCR in a total of 106 patients with urothelial bladder cancer and in different bladder cancer cell lines. Loss-of-function experiments were performed to investigate the biological roles of DANCR on bladder cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion and tumorigenicity. Comprehensive transcriptional analysis, RNA-FISH, dual-luciferase reporter assay and western blot were performed to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the functions of DANCR.

Results

In this study, we found that DANCR was significantly up-regulated in bladder cancer. Moreover, increased DANCR expression was positively correlated with higher histological grade and advanced TNM stage. Further experiments demonstrated that knockdown of DANCR inhibited malignant phenotypes and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of bladder cancer cells. Mechanistically, we found that DANCR was distributed mostly in the cytoplasm and DANCR functioned as a miRNA sponge to positively regulate the expression of musashi RNA binding protein 2 (MSI2) through sponging miR-149 and subsequently promoted malignant phenotypes of bladder cancer cells, thus playing an oncogenic role in bladder cancer pathogenesis.

Conclusion

This study is the first to demonstrate that DANCR plays a critical regulatory role in bladder cancer cell and DANCR may serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target of bladder cancer.
Market control: understanding the China's construction industry
Authors: Zhao Wei
Published: November 2018

Research on the labor process was initiated by the American economist Harry Braverman in the 1970s. This theory has been the main departure point for sociological research on labor issues in China. Since the beginning of the new century, research has taken new directions, such as the exploration of changes in the mode of control of workers. Based on that perspective, this article analyzes the specificities of the labor process of the Chinese building industry. It suggests to pay much more attention to social factors, such as the labor market, to understand the China’s building industry.
Distribution of Extreme Vital Signs and Complete Blood Count Values of Healthy Parturients: A Retrospective Database Analysis and Review of the Literature
Authors: Gat Roi , Hadar Eran , Orbach-Zinger Sharon , Shochat Tzippy , Kushnir Shiri , Einav Sharon
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND:

The impact of physiological adjustments throughout pregnancy on maternal vital signs and laboratory values has yet to be fully defined. The present study was designed to determine the normal range of these parameters among healthy pregnant women during the peripartum period.

METHODS:

This is a retrospective analysis of data collected during real-time deliveries in a single medical center. Vital signs and laboratory results from the 24 hours preceding delivery room admission and up to 72 hours postpartum were collected. Only pregnant women at term (370/7 to 416/7 weeks’ gestation) with a liveborn, singleton gestation, and no chronic disease or obstetric complication that could affect the physiological parameters under study were included. The mean, range, and standard deviations of the extremes of all parameters at 3 distinct time points (prelabor, intrapartum, and postpartum) were calculated. The 2.5 and 97.5 percentiles for each parameter were reported as the normal range.

RESULTS:

A total of 32,161 cases fulfilled inclusion criteria. The average gestational age at delivery was 393/7 weeks ± 8 days, and one-third of the cases were primiparous. During labor and after delivery, the upper limits of normal blood pressure values were 147/94 and 145/94 mm Hg, respectively. The lower limits were 83/43 and 83/42 mm Hg, respectively. Normal heart rates were 60–115 beats/min prelabor, 51–120 beats/min intrapartum, and 50–120 beats/min postpartum. Lowest normal temperatures ranged between 36.0°C and 36.3°C in the 3 study time points, and highest normal temperatures were 37.2°C prelabor and 37.6°C intra- and postpartum. The normal ranges of white blood cell counts were 6.1–16.8 prelabor, 6.5–22.5 intrapartum, and 6.4–23.9 K/µL postpartum. Normal low values of hemoglobin were 9.7, 8.7, and 7.1 g/dL and of platelets were 117, 113, and 105 K/µL, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings justify the practice of using ≥2 repeated measurements for diagnosing hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Lower normal blood pressure limits may be below those defining hypotensive shock. Normal heart rates exceed the accepted definitions of both tachy- and bradycardia. Normal temperatures at all times have a more narrow range than previously thought, and the normal range of white blood cell count has outliers exceeding the current definitions of leukocytosis or leukopenia at all times. The normal lower range of hemoglobin was constantly below 10 g/dL, and normal platelet counts were considerably lower than those previously described. The vital signs and complete blood count values thus far considered normal for the peripartum period may require some adjustment. New definitions for hypotension, tachy- and bradycardia, fever, and leukocyte quantitative disorders should be considered.
An Observational Study of Cerebral Blood Flow Velocity Evaluation in the Prone Position During Posterior Lumbar Surgery
Authors: Bombardieri Anna Maria , Beckman James , Urban Michael , Go George , De Gaudio A. Raffaele , Girardi Federico P. , Ma Yan , Memtsoudis Stavros G.
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND:

Prone positioning (PP) is necessary for surgical access during posterior spine procedure. However, physiological changes occur in the PP. Typical findings are a decrease in arterial blood pressure and in cardiac output that could potentially lead to an alteration in cerebral perfusion. Therefore, we decided to study cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV) with transcranial Doppler ultrasonography to evaluate the effect of the PP on cerebral hemodynamics.

METHODS:

Twenty-two patients undergoing spine surgery in the PP were studied. General anesthesia was induced using 250 μg of fentanyl, 2 mg/kg of propofol, and 0.1 mg/kg of vecuronium, and was maintained with 0.25%–0.5% isoflurane, 50% nitrous oxide in oxygen, continuous infusion of 100 μg/kg/min of propofol, 1.5 μg/kg/h of fentanyl, and 0.15 mg/kg/h of ketamine. Continuous invasive arterial blood pressure, heart rate, electrocardiogram, and end-tidal carbon dioxide were monitored. CBFV with transcranial Doppler in the middle cerebral artery was first measured with the patients under general anesthesia in the supine position. Patients were then placed in the PP and remained in this position throughout surgery. CBFV, end-tidal carbon dioxide, heart rate, and blood pressure were measured continuously for 75 minutes after initiation of PP. This coincided with surgical exposure and minimal blood loss. Data were analyzed every 15 minutes for statistical significant change over time.

RESULTS:

Mean arterial blood pressure decreased 15 minutes after the installation of the PP and onward, but this decrease was not statistically significant. CBFVsyst (the maximal CBFV during the systolic phase of a cardiac cycle) and CBFVmean (the time averaged value of the maximal velocity envelope over 1 cardiac cycle) did not vary at any time points. CBFVdiast (the CBFV just before the acceleration phase [systole] of the next waveform) was lower at T3 (30 minutes after PP) compared to T1 (value derived averaging the first measure in the PP with the ones at 5 and 10 minutes) (P = .01), and the pulsatility index was higher at T5 (60 minutes after PP) compared to T0 (baseline, patient supine under general anesthesia) (P = .04). Data were analyzed at specific time points (T0 and T1). This value was derived by computing an average of the CBFV values collected at the first measure in the PP and at 5 and 10 minutes thereafter: T2, 15 minutes after PP; T3, 30 minutes after PP; T4, 45 minutes after PP; T5, 60 minutes after PP; and T6, 75 minutes after PP.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our data on CBFV during PP for spine surgery demonstrate preservation of cerebral perfusion during stable systemic hemodynamic conditions. The present results do not allow us to determine whether the PP would be similarly tolerated with increasing length of surgery, variations in systemic hemodynamics, and in different patient populations.