bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robot-Assisted Infratrigonal Vesicovaginal Fistula Repair
Authors: Manzano João Pádua , Crochik Fábio da Silva , Pugliesi Felipe Guimarães , Almeida Renato Vasconcelos Souza de , Melo Petronio Augusto de Souza , Nunes Ricardo Luís Vita
Published: May 2019

Background. Although relatively rare, vesicovaginal fistula is the most common genitourinary fistula, causing a significant decrease in patients’ quality of life. Location of fistula is major supratrigonal, with some cases located in the trigone and rarely below it. Disease treatment is surgical, and repair can be performed by several techniques, including robot-assisted.Case Presentation. We present a case of a patient who developed an infratrigonal vesicovaginal fistula after treatment of a cervical cancer. The patient was submitted to robotic repair of the vesicovaginal fistula.Conclusion. The use of robot-assisted laparoscopy is expanding over all areas of urology and its applicability to repair vesicovaginal fistulas brings good results.
Repeated Low‐Intensity Shock Wave Simulation Experiment for Fracture Development and Propagation of Coal
Authors: Xie Taofeng , Zhou Xiaoting , Wang Qingya , Cao Shuai , Cao Huiming , Huang Wengang
Published: May 2019

For low‐permeability coal seam, the gas extraction rate is relatively low. The repeated low‐intensity shock wave can improve the permeability of coal and raise the rate of coal seam gas drainage. A simulation test platform was set up to carry out repeated low‐intensity shock wave simulation experiment. Under the effect of repeated low‐intensity shock wave, the development process of the macrofracture, pore evolution, and the law of microcrack propagation was analyzed to study the law of coal fracture propagation. Research shows that the expansion of the pore of the coal is made by the development of large, medium, and micropores by the repeated low‐strength shock wave. The main contribution of the total pore volume increase comes from the micropore growth. The microcrack of the coal mainly begins to sprout and develops from the telocollinite where the fracture is more developed. With the increase of impact times, the microcracks extend to other components. Under the impact of different times, the fractal dimension of the coal sample increases with the increase in the number and length of cracks.
Low-Complexity Scalable Architectures for Parallel Computation of Similarity Measures
Authors: Kanan Awos , Gebali Fayez , Ibrahim Atef , Li Kin Fun
Published: May 2019

Processor array architectures have been employed, as an accelerator, to compute similarity distance found in a variety of data mining algorithms. However, most of the proposed architectures in the existing literature are designed in an ad hoc manner without taking into consideration the size and dimensionality of the datasets. Furthermore, data dependencies have not been analyzed, and often, only one design choice is considered for the scheduling and mapping of computational tasks. In this work, we present a systematic methodology to design scalable and area-efficient linear (1-D) processor arrays for the computation of similarity distance matrices. Six possible design options are obtained and analyzed in terms of area and time complexities. The obtained architectures provide us with the flexibility to choose the one that meets hardware constraints for a specific problem size. Comparisons with the previously reported architectures demonstrate that one of the proposed architectures achieves less area and area-delay product besides its scalability to high-dimensional data.
Surgical Treatment of a Patient with a Solitary Thyroid Metastasis from Primary Sigmoid Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Yamahara Kohei , Moriki Toshiaki , Katsura Yuki , Lee Kana , Ikegami Satoshi
Published: May 2019

Malignant metastases to the thyroid are rare and even rarer from colorectal cancer (CRC). Most cases of CRC metastasis to the thyroid involve metastases to other organs as well, particularly the liver and/or lung. There are only three reports of CRC metastasizing to the thyroid without involvement of another site. Patients with solitary thyroid metastasis from CRC have a poor prognosis after surgery, whereas resection is beneficial in their counterparts with a solitary liver or lung metastasis. This difference could be the result of delayed diagnosis of thyroid metastasis in patients with CRC, given that postoperative follow-up examination of the thyroid is not routinely performed. Here we describe a patient who was found to have a solitary metastasis of sigmoid cancer to the thyroid on postoperative imaging and has had prolonged disease-free survival after thyroidectomy. Our experience suggests that a low threshold of suspicion is crucial for timely diagnosis of thyroid metastasis from CRC and that resection can improve disease-free survival.
Aortic Root Abscess with Aorta to Right Atrium Fistula due to Vancomycin-Intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA)
Authors: Hankinson Stephen J. , Sultanik Elliot A. , Ramani Gautam V.
Published: May 2019

We present a case of root abscess with aorta to right atrium fistula due to vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA) after limb amputation and cardiac surgery. Patient underwent redo aortic valve replacement, patch repair of aorta to right atrial fistula, and tricuspid valve repair with a ring. Fistula formation is a rare complication of prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE). This is the first case to discuss aortocavitary fistula (ACF) formation due to VISA. Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is the preferred imaging modality to diagnose ACF.
Asparagus Polysaccharide Suppresses the Migration, Invasion, and Angiogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells Partly by Targeting the HIF-1α/VEGF Signalling Pathway In Vitro
Authors: Cheng Wei , Cheng Ziwei , Xing Dongwei , Zhang Minguang
Published: May 2019

Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) plays a key role by triggering the transcriptional activation of a number of genes involved in migration, invasion, and angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thus, suppressing tumour growth by targeting the HIF-1α/VEGF signalling pathway represents a promising strategy for the treatment of HCC. In our previous studies, we found that asparagus polysaccharide (ASP) suppressed the proliferation and promoted the apoptosis of HCC cells both in vivo and in vitro. To further explore the potential mechanisms of the antitumor effects of ASP in HCC, we investigated effects of ASP on the migration, invasion, and angiogenesis of HCC cells (SK-Hep1 and Hep-3B) using an in vitro experimental model. First, we found that ASP effectively suppressed the proliferation of the SK-Hep1 and Hep-3B cells but did not cause significant cytotoxicity in normal liver cells (L-O2). Then, we found that ASP inhibited the migration and invasion of the SK-Hep1 and Hep-3B cells and HCC cells-induced angiogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Mechanistic studies revealed that the inhibition of migration, invasion, and angiogenesis by ASP in the SK-Hep1 and Hep-3B cells might occur via the downregulation of HIF-1α/VEGF signalling pathway. Finally, our results also showed that the inhibition of HIF-1α by ASP may be mediated through the downregulation of the phosphorylation levels of AKT, mTOR, and ERK. In conclusion, our results suggest that ASP suppresses the migration, invasion, and angiogenesis of HCC cells partly via inhibiting the HIF-1α/VEGF signalling pathway.
Ethnobotanical Study of Cultivated Plants in Kaišiadorys District, Lithuania: Possible Trends for New Herbal Based Medicines
Authors: Pranskuniene Zivile , Ratkeviciute Kristina , Simaitiene Zenona , Pranskunas Andrius , Bernatoniene Jurga
Published: May 2019

Background. Despite the growing body of ethnobotanical studies in Europe, publications are scarce in Lithuania. Ethnobotanical study in Kaišiadorys district is one of the few from this field done in Lithuania. Lithuania is divided into five ethnographic regions, and Kaišiadorys district is an area which borders with the three of them (Aukštaitija, Dzūkija, and Suvalkija), which determines the ethnographic distinctiveness of the area. The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of cultivated medicinal plants, their families and pharmaceutical forms used in Kaišiadorys district, Lithuania, and to assess the conformity of medicinal plant materials used by respondents with the recommendations for medicinal plant materials in the World Health Organization monographs. Methods. The field work was conducted in periods of time from July 2016 to October 2017. During this ethnobotanical research, 30 people were interviewed, 25 of whom agreed to communicate. The average age of respondents was 65 years. Information was collected using semistructured and structured interviews. The obtained information was recorded indicating ethnic names of plants, their preparation techniques, parts used, modes of administration, and application for therapeutic purposes. Results. Respondents mentioned 71 species of cultivated medicinal plants from 38 families, used for therapeutic purposes and indicated which parts of the plant they use, how they prepare them, indications for use, and ways of administration. The most commonly cited families were Asteraceae (20.5%), Lamiaceae (13.9%), and Apiaceae (12.8%); most popular plants, cited more than 20 times, were Tilia cordata L., Matricaria recutita L., Calendula officinalis L., Carum carvi L., and Artemisia absinthium L. The frequently used plant parts were flowers (mentioned 35.8%), leaves (16.3%), roots and tubers (16.1%), herb (14.8%), and seeds (7.0%). Diseases most frequently treated were digestive (21.5% of citations), respiratory (21.3 % of citations), mental and behavioral (11.0%) disorders, certain infections and parasitic diseases (10.1%), and diseases of genitourinary system (9.1%). Conclusions. Only 19 of the cultivated medicinal plant species mentioned by interviewed persons are described in the World Health Organization monographs. This means that the remaining 52 species are used without the World Health Organization approved medical indications, based solely on the folk medicine knowledge and experience. This study showed that the folk use of plants is strongly rooted in daily practice in the studied area.
Analysis of the Effect of the Line‐Seru Conversion on the Waiting Time with Batch Arrival
Authors: Ren Hui , Wang Dongyu
Published: May 2019

The conveyor assembly line has been widely used in manufacturing industries to produce standard products with low costs. However, due to lack of flexibility, this production method has not been conducive to multivariety and small‐batch production. In this situation, seru production formed by converting conveyor assembly lines has been a successful innovation in the Japanese manufacturing industry. Most of the existing literature has studied the benefits of this line‐seru conversion from the perspective of the enterprises themselves, but this paper studies the effect of the line‐seru conversion on the waiting time from the perspective of the customer. First, the change in the average waiting queue length caused by the line‐seru conversion is proposed as an evaluation index. Second, with the consideration of the practical situation of random batch arrivals, the average waiting queue length formulas for the conveyor assembly line and seru production are established based on the assumption that the arrival is a Poisson process. Then, under two scenarios, we investigate the relationship between the average waiting queue length changed by the line‐seru conversion and other parameters and find that the conversion can reduce the average waiting queue length in multivariety and small‐batch production. Finally, under other potential scenarios, the equations for determining the average waiting queue length resulting from a change to line‐seru conversion are derived.
Severe Eosinophilic Meningoencephalitis Secondary to Suspected Neuroangiostrongyliasis with a Good Clinical Outcome
Authors: Chiong Fabian , Lloyd Andrew R. , Post Jeffrey J.
Published: May 2019

Angiostrongylus cantonensishas caused sporadic cases of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis in Sydney, Australia. We describe a 36-year-old man who presented subacutely with fevers, reduced level of consciousness, confusion, ophthalmoplegia, and urinary incontinence. He was diagnosed with severe eosinophilic meningoencephalitis secondary to suspectedAngiostrongylus cantonensisbased on clinical, serological, and radiological findings. The patient was treated with albendazole and prednisolone with full neurological recovery. Management of neuroangiostrongyliasis with anthelminthic is controversial as it is thought to cause worsened outcomes through inciting an inflammatory response as a result of parasite killing. We managed to successfully treat our patient using albendazole and prednisolone and achieved a good outcome.
Synthesis of Magnesium Oxide Nanoplates and Their Application in Nitrogen Dioxide and Sulfur Dioxide Adsorption
Authors: Duong Thi Hai Yen , Nguyen Thanh Nhan , Oanh Ho Thi , Dang Thi Tuyet Anh , Giang Le Nhat Thuy , Phuong Hoang Thi , Anh Nguyen Tuan , Nguyen Ba Manh , Tran Quang Vinh , Le Giang Truong , Nguyen Tuyen Van
Published: May 2019

In this research, nanostructured magnesium oxide was synthesized through the sol-gel calcination or hydrothermal calcination method using various surfactants. The X-ray diffraction pattern of the materials confirmed that all the prepared magnesium oxide samples were single phase without any impurity. The scanning electron microscopy images and specific surface area values showed that sodium dodecyl sulfate was the most suitable surfactant for the synthesis of magnesium oxide nanoplates with the diameter of 40–60 nm, the average thickness of 5 nm, and a specific surface area of 126 m2/g. This material was utilized for nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide adsorption under ambient condition. The saturated adsorption capacities of magnesium oxide were 174 mg/g for nitrogen dioxide and 160 mg/g for sulfur dioxide, making the magnesium oxide nanoplates a promising candidate for toxic gas treatment.
Resection of a Rare Metacarpal Distal Condyle Osteoid Osteoma
Authors: El Fatayri Bachar , Djebara Az-Eddine , Fourdrain Alex , Bulaid Yassine , Sanguina Mario
Published: May 2019

Introduction. Osteoid osteoma is a benign bone-forming tumor with young male predilection. It occurs predominantly in the long bones. In the hand, osteoid osteoma is more commonly located in the phalanges and carpal bones. The metacarpals are the least common site for osteoid osteoma. Pain is the most common symptom. It usually increases at night and responds to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Case Presentation. The authors report the excision of an osteoid osteoma lying at the distal condyle of a metacarpal bone of the left hand. The clinical and radiological findings are exposed as well as the surgical management of the lesion. Pain and swelling disappeared after surgery, and there was no evidence of recurrence at follow-up. Discussion. They discuss this rare location and further radiological examination that was used leading to the diagnosis. The imputation of the traumatic factor has been discussed, along with the different therapeutic possibilities and the advantages of a total excision while preserving the integrity of the adjacent ligament and joint space. Conclusion. The surgical alternative appears to be a satisfying treatment for osteoid osteoma in this particular superficial location. Both the exact pathogenesis and the contribution of the traumatic factor remain unclear.
Isoliquiritigenin Attenuates Monocrotaline-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension via Inhibition of the Inflammatory Response and PASMCs Proliferation
Authors: Jin Haifeng , Jiang Yang , Du Fengxia , Guo Linna , Wang Guan , Kim Sang Chan , Lee Chul Won , Shen Lei , Zhao Rongjie
Published: May 2019

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a progressive and serious disease, where exacerbated inflammatory response plays a critical role. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL), an important flavonoid isolated from Glycyrrhizae radix, exhibits a wide range of pharmacological actions including anti-inflammation. Previously we found ISL alleviated hypoxia-induced PH; in the present study, to extend this, we evaluated the effects of ISL on monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PH and the relevant mechanisms. Rats received a single intraperitoneal injection of MCT, followed by intragastric treatments with ISL (10 mg/kg/d or 30 mg/kg/d) once a day for 28 days. The MCT administration increased the right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) (p< 0.001), the median width of pulmonary arteries (p< 0.01), and the weight ratio of the right ventricular wall/left ventricular wall plus septum (Fulton index) (p< 0.01) in rats; however, these changes were inhibited by both doses of ISL (p< 0.05). In addition, treatment with ISL suppressed the upregulated production of serum interleukin-6 (p< 0.01) and tumor necrosis factor-α(p< 0.05) by MCT and reversed the increases in the numbers of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-positive cells (p< 0.01) in the medial wall of pulmonary arteries. In in vitro experiments, ISL (10μM, 30μM, and 100μM) inhibited excessive proliferation of cultured primary pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) (p< 0.05,p< 0.01, andp< 0.001) in a dose-dependent manner and prevented an increase in the expressions of PCNA (p< 0.01) and phospho-Akt (p< 0.05) in PASMCs induced by hypoxia. These results suggest that ISL can attenuate MCT-induced PH via its anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative actions.
Is There a Major Role for Undetected Autism Spectrum Disorder with Childhood Trauma in a Patient with a Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder, Self-Injuring, and Multiple Comorbidities?
Authors: Carmassi Claudia , Bertelloni Carlo Antonio , Salarpi Gianluca , Diadema Elisa , Avella Maria Teresa , Dell’Oste Valerio , Dell’Osso Liliana
Published: May 2019

This case report highlights the relevance of the consequences of trauma in a female patient with an undetected autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affected by bipolar disorder (BD) with multiple comorbidities. A 35-year-old woman with BD type II, binge eating disorder and panic disorder was admitted in the Inpatient Unit of the Psychiatric Clinic of the University of Pisa because of a recrudescence of depressive symptomatology, associated with increase of anxiety, noticeable ruminations, significant alteration in neurovegetative pattern, and serious suicide ideation. During the hospitalization, a diagnosis of ASD emerged besides a history of childhood trauma and affective dysregulation, marked impulsivity, feeling of emptiness, and self-harm behavior. The patient was assessed by the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ), Ritvo Autism and Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS-R), the Adult Autism Subthreshold Spectrum (AdAS Spectrum), Trauma and Loss Spectrum (TALS-SR), and Ruminative Response Scale (RRS). Total scores of 38/50 in the AQ, 146/240 in the RAADS-R, 99/160 in the AdAS Spectrum emerged, compatible with ASD, 47/116 in the TALS-SR, and 64/88 in the RRS. We discuss the implications of the trauma she underwent during her childhood, in the sense that caused a complex posttraumatic disorder, a lifelong disease favored and boosted by the rumination tendency of high functioning ASD.
Recurrent Otogenic Intracranial Sepsis: A Key Radiological Finding, Not to Be Missed
Authors: Aziz Mark , Omakobia Eugene
Published: May 2019

Introduction. Otogenic intracranial sepsis is a well-known and established complication of otitis media. It is a major cause of morbidity and mortality from otitis media. We present a case of recurrent otogenic intracranial sepsis and key findings on imaging. Case Report. A 64-year-old male presented with two episodes of severe sepsis secondary to right sided otitis media. During the first episode, he suffered an episode of otogenic pneumococcal sepsis requiring intensive care admission. A year later, he suffered another episode of otogenic intracranial sepsis with evidence of encephalitis, which also required intensive care input. He underwent surgical management of his otitis media with a right myringotomy followed by grommet insertion. Findings. Both computerised tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the temporal bones demonstrated a defect in the right tegmen tympani, through which a cyst herniated into the epitympanum. Postinfective changes were also noted in the right inferior temporal lobe. Discussion. Tegmen tympani defects are a rare but important risk factor for the spread of intracranial infections from the middle ear. In cases of recurrent otogenic intracranial sepsis, it is crucial to look for evidence of this finding on imaging.
Evaluating Route and Frequency Design of Bus Lines Based on Data Envelopment Analysis with Network Epsilon-Based Measures
Authors: Deng Yiling , Yan Yadan
Published: May 2019

Increasing the efficiency of bus transit remains to be a challenge of urban transportation. Since the optimization of bus routes and their frequencies is significant for transit efficiency, this study aims to develop two data envelopment analysis (DEA) models using network epsilon-based measures (NEBMs). The first NEBM model adopts twelve indicators to evaluate the rationality of the route network design; the second NEBM model uses nine indicators to evaluate the efficiency of the frequency setting. Both NEBM models can simultaneously consider radial and nonradial inputs and outputs and dig into details of the “input/output transformation box.” Finally, the bus transit system of Nanjing in China is used as a case study. Results show that the overall efficiency of network route design is higher than that of frequency setting. According to comparisons between descriptive statistics of the top and bottom performers, inefficiency causes of bottom performers are identified and corresponding improvement measures are suggested. The proposed models are helpful for the development of bus transit systems and can be applied on a yearly/monthly basis.
Effect of an Anhydride Excess on the Curing Kinetics and Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Synthetic and Biogenic Epoxy Resins
Authors: Altuna Facundo I. , Riccardi Carmen C. , Marín Quintero Diana C. , Ruseckaite Roxana A. , Stefani Pablo M.
Published: May 2019

This work analyzes the effect of the anhydride excess on the nonisothermal curing kinetics and on the final properties of synthetic and biobased epoxy resins. Diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) and epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) were crosslinked using methyltetrahydrophthalic anhydride (MTHPA) as a curing agent and 1-methylimidazole (1MI) as an initiator. It was shown that the ESO/MTHPA/1MI system reacts slower than the DGEBA/MTHPA/1MI system, giving place to a more significant evaporation of the curing agent during the reaction. As a result, an excess of anhydride improves the final thermal properties of the ESO/MTHPA/1MI network, contrary to the behavior observed for DGEBA/MTHPA/1MI. The knowledge of the kinetics of the curing process and the optimal amount of the curing agent for each system is of critical importance for a more efficient processing of these materials.
A Rare Cause of Ascites-Disseminated TB with Peritonitis in a Middle-Aged Female
Authors: Vithoosan Sahathevan , Shanjeeban Ponnudurai , Anpalahan Joseph Philip , Piranavan Paramarajan , Karunatilake Harindra , Jayanaga Ananda
Published: May 2019

Background. Disseminated tuberculosis (TB) has been increasingly recognized in adults in the recent times due to increased prevalence of immune suppression. Here we describe a case of 47-year-old female who presented with disproportionate ascites where the diagnosis of disseminated TB was delayed. Case Report. A 47-year-old previously healthy female presented with generalised body swelling with disproportionate ascites and loss of appetite and weight for four-month duration. She denied any contact or past history of TB and reported no respiratory symptoms. Physical examination revealed significant ascites. There was no lymphadenopathy or hepatosplenomegaly. Respiratory system examination was normal. Her Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) was above 100. Tuberculin skin test was positive with 17mm. Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) abdomen revealed chronic liver disease with ascites. Diagnostic laparoscopy was in favour of miliary TB and the peritoneal biopsy revealed granulomatous inflammation with caseous necrosis, suggestive of TB. The patient was started on antituberculosis treatment and subsequently improved. Conclusion. TB peritonitis due to disseminated TB should be considered in the differential diagnosis of disproportionate ascites. Even though the diagnosis is difficult, diagnostic laparoscopy and biopsy is very helpful. It is important to have an early diagnosis since delay in treatment can be detrimental in most cases.
Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) Approach for Modelling the Optimization of Chromium (VI) Reduction by Newly IsolatedAcinetobacter radioresistensStrain NS-MIE from Agricultural Soil
Authors: Ram Talib Nur Syuhadah , Halmi Mohd Izuan Effendi , Abd Ghani Siti Salwa , Zaidan Uswatun Hasanah , Shukor Mohd Yunus Abd
Published: May 2019

Numerous technologies and approaches have been used in the past few decades to remove hexavalent chromium (Cr[VI]) in wastewater and the environment. However, these conventional technologies are not economical and efficient in removing Cr(VI) at a very low concentration (1-100 ppm). As an alternative, the utilization of bioremediation techniques which uses the potential of microorganisms could represent an effective technique for the detoxification of Cr(VI). In this study, we reported a newly isolated bacterium identified asAcinetobacter radioresistenssp. NS-MIE from Malaysian agricultural soil. The chromate reduction potential of strain NS-MIE was optimized using RSM and ANN techniques. The optimum condition predicted by RSM for the bacterium to reduce hexavalent chromium occurred at pH 6, 10 g/L ppm of nutrient broth (NB) concentration and 100 ppm of chromate concentration while the optimum condition predicted by ANN is at pH 6 and 10 g/L of NB concentration and of 60 ppm of chromate concentration with chromate reduction (%) of 75.13 % and 96.27 %, respectively. The analysis by the ANN model shows better prediction data with a higher R2value of 0.9991 and smaller average absolute deviation (AAD) and root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.33 % and 0.302 %, respectively. Validation analysis showed the predicted values by RSM and ANN were close to the validation values, whereas the ANN showed the lowest deviation, 2.57%, compared to the RSM. This finding suggests that the ANN showed a better prediction and fitting ability compared to the RSM for the nonlinear regression analysis. Based on this study,A. radioresistenssp. NS-MIE exhibits strong potential characteristics as a candidate for the bioremediation of hexavalent chromium in the environment.
The Clinical Rationale for the Sentry Bioconvertible Inferior Vena Cava Filter for the Prevention of Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Dake Michael D. , Ansel Gary M. , Johnson Matthew S. , Mendes Robert , Smouse H. Bob
Published: May 2019

The Sentry inferior vena cava (IVC) filter is designed to provide temporary protection against pulmonary embolism (PE) during transient high-risk periods and then to bioconvert after 60 days after implantation. At the time of bioconversion, the device’s nitinol arms retract from the filtering position into the caval wall. Subsequently, the stable stent-like nitinol frame is endothelialized. The Sentry bioconvertible IVC filter has been evaluated in a multicenter investigational-device-exemption pivotal trial (NCT01975090) of 129 patients with documented deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or PE, or at temporary risk of developing DVT or PE, and with contraindications to anticoagulation. Successful filter conversion was observed in 95.7% of patients at 6 months (110/115) and 96.4% at 12 months (106/110). Through 12 months, there were no cases of symptomatic PE. The rationale for development of the Sentry bioconvertible device includes the following considerations: (1) the period of highest risk of PE for the vast majority of patients occurs within the first 60 days after an index event, with most of the PEs occurring in the first 30 days; (2) the design of retrievable IVC filters to support their removal after a transitory high-PE-risk period has, in practice, been associated with insecure filter dynamics and time-dependent complications including tilting, fracture, embolization, migration, and IVC perforation; (3) most retrievable IVC filters are placed for temporary protection, but for a variety of reasons they are not removed in any more than half of implanted patients, and when removal is attempted, the procedure is not always successful even with advanced techniques; and (4) analysis of Medicare hospital data suggests that payment for the retrieval procedure does not routinely compensate for expense. The Sentry device is not intended for removal after bioconversion. In initial clinical use, complications have been limited. Long-term results for the Sentry bioconvertible IVC filter are anticipated soon.
Transfer Mechanism of Lanthanum from Rare Earth Containing Iron Ore to Pig Iron during the Blast Furnace Process
Authors: Qu Wei , Ren Huiping , Jin Zili , Dong Fang
Published: May 2019

Some iron ores are enriched with lanthanum element, for example, the Bayan Obo iron ore in China. The pig iron which used the Bayan Obo iron ore as the raw material was obtained from the blast furnace of Baotou Steel in order to research the transfer mechanisms of lanthanum from rare earth containing iron ore to pig iron during the blast furnace process. The thermodynamic process was calculated using the molecular-ion coexistence model. The slag-metal reactions of the hearth were carried out in the tube furnace. The morphology and phase structure in the pig iron were observed by SEM and XRD. The rule of lanthanum transfer was analyzed by physical and chemical analyses using ICP-MS. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was used for analyzing the vibrations of functional groups. The results indicate that the La2O3 in the slag was reduced to LaC2 by carbon and then the LaC2 dissolved into the molten iron to form La. At last, coke which has the oxygen-containing functional groups (C-OH, C=O, and C-O-C) has capacity to absorb lanthanum that is dissolved in the molten iron during the blast furnace iron-making process, and increasing the lanthanum content in the slag leads to higher lanthanum concentration in the porous graphite phase of the pig iron. The coke is graphitized during the process and could remain in the pig iron as porous graphite phase which acts as the carrier of lanthanum.
Fatigue Strength Assessment of Trimaran Cross‐Deck Structure Based on Spectral and Simplified Fatigue Method
Authors: Zhen Chunbo , Wang Tianlin , Yu Pengyao , Feng Liang
Published: May 2019

In order to investigate the fatigue behaviour of trimaran cross‐deck structural details, the spectral and simplified fatigue analysis approaches are proposed. In spectral fatigue approach, three‐dimensional (3D) linear potential flow theory and global FE analysis are used for wave loads and stress transfer functions calculation; the stochastic spectral fatigue analysis is carried out considering the weighted wave headings factors. In simplified fatigue approach, based on the direct calculation procedure of LR rules, the evaluation of simplified fatigue loads and loading conditions are presented, and the stress ranges are obtained by global finite element (FE) analysis. Then the fatigue lives of a few hot spots are computed to demonstrate the application of the proposed method. The result shows that the method given in this paper has a good applicability. This study offers methodology for the fatigue analysis of trimaran cross‐deck structure, which may be regarded as helpful references for structural design of these types of ships.
An Initial Investigation of the Effects of a Fully Automated Vehicle Fleet on Geometric Design
Authors: Khoury John , Amine Kamar , Abi Saad Rima
Published: May 2019

This paper investigates the potential changes in the geometric design elements in response to a fully autonomous vehicle fleet. When autonomous vehicles completely replace conventional vehicles, the human driver will no longer be a concern. Currently, and for safety reasons, the human driver plays an inherent role in designing highway elements, which depend on the driver’s perception-reaction time, driver’s eye height, and other driver related parameters. This study focuses on the geometric design elements that will directly be affected by the replacement of the human driver with fully autonomous vehicles. Stopping sight distance, decision sight distance, and length of sag and crest vertical curves are geometric design elements directly affected by the projected change. Revised values for these design elements are presented and their effects are quantified using a real-life scenario. An existing roadway designed using current AASHTO standards has been redesigned with the revised values. Compared with the existing design, the proposed design shows significant economic and environmental improvements, given the elimination of the human driver.
Chelidonine Induces Caspase-Dependent and Caspase-Independent Cell Death through G2/M Arrest in the T98G Human Glioblastoma Cell Line
Authors: Lee Yeon-Kyeong , Lee Ki Won , Kim Minju , Lee Yerin , Yoo Jiyun , Hwangbo Cheol , Park Ki Hun , Kim Kwang Dong
Published: May 2019

Chelidonium majus L. (family Papaveraceae), commonly known as greater celandine or tetterwort, has been reported to have antibacterial and anticancer effects and chelidonine is known as a functional metabolite extracted from C. majus. In this study, we observed the cytotoxicity of the alkaloid, chelidonine, and investigated its functional mechanism in T98G glioblastoma cell line. Chelidonine induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner, which was accompanied by decreased antiapoptotic protein Mcl-1. Caspase-3 and -9 were activated by treatment with chelidonine, but chelidonine-mediated apoptosis was only partially inhibited by a pan-caspase inhibitor. Chelidonine also induced the translocation of AIF into the nucleus; therefore, it is likely that chelidonine induces T98G cell death through both caspase-dependent and caspase-independent apoptosis pathways. Chelidonine also induced G2/M arrest by inducing multipolar spindle assembly, which might also lead to cell death through inhibiting mitosis. Active CDK1, one of factors contributing to the prolongation of G2/M phase, induced Mcl-1 degradation increasing mitochondrial instability, which is also an inducer of apoptosis in chelidonine-treated T98G cells. Taken together, these findings indicate that chelidonine induces apoptosis through G2/M arrest and Mcl-1 degradation, implying that it may represent a compound for anticancer chemotherapy.
A Modified New Two-Parameter Estimator in a Linear Regression Model
Authors: Lukman Adewale F. , Ayinde Kayode , Siok Kun Sek , Adewuyi Emmanuel T.
Published: May 2019

The literature has shown that ordinary least squares estimator (OLSE) is not best when the explanatory variables are related, that is, when multicollinearity is present. This estimator becomes unstable and gives a misleading conclusion. In this study, a modified new two-parameter estimator based on prior information for the vector of parameters is proposed to circumvent the problem of multicollinearity. This new estimator includes the special cases of the ordinary least squares estimator (OLSE), the ridge estimator (RRE), the Liu estimator (LE), the modified ridge estimator (MRE), and the modified Liu estimator (MLE). Furthermore, the superiority of the new estimator over OLSE, RRE, LE, MRE, MLE, and the two-parameter estimator proposed by Ozkale and Kaciranlar (2007) was obtained by using the mean squared error matrix criterion. In conclusion, a numerical example and a simulation study were conducted to illustrate the theoretical results.
Pancreatic Cancer Presenting as a Pancreatic Duct Disruption
Authors: Liu Annie , Zeh Herbert J. , Boone Brian A.
Published: May 2019

The high mortality rate associated with pancreatic cancer necessitates accurate and early detection methods. Computed tomography currently is the primary diagnostic modality used; however, subtle imaging features in concert with novel clinical presentations may obscure the initial diagnosis. Here, we describe a unique initial presentation of pancreatic cancer as a pancreatic leak, with subtle initial CT evidence of malignancy. An 83-year-old female with prior surgical history of open splenectomy and ventral hernia repair presented with two weeks of vague abdominal pain and leukocytosis. Initial CT revealed abdominal peripancreatic fluid collections. Interventional radiology-guided drain placement was performed, which revealed amylase-rich pancreatic fluid within the collections. Repeat CT scan revealed subtle pancreatic duct dilation with slow resolution of the fluid collections. Ultimately, endoscopic ultrasound identified an ill-defined pancreatic mass, revealed to be pancreatic adenocarcinoma. The patient subsequently underwent an open distal pancreatectomy. Diagnosis of pancreatic cancer relies heavily on cross-sectional imaging, with no screening tests currently available. However, subtle radiographic features and unique clinical presentations may delay accurate diagnosis and staging. EUS may be a useful tool for initial evaluation of high-risk individuals.
2S2P1D Model Calibration Error from User Panel for One Bitumen and One Bituminous Mixture
Authors: Mangiafico S. , Sauzéat C. , Di Benedetto H.
Published: May 2019

The objective of this study is to analyse the differences between experimental LVE properties of both a straight-run bitumen and a bituminous mixture and simulations with analogical 2S2P1D (2 Springs, 2 Parabolic elements, and 1 Dashpot) model fitted by 14 different users. Data for the bitumen consisted of isotherms of G∗ and φ obtained from DSR complex modulus tests at 12 different temperatures ranging from −29.9°C to 60.0°C and frequencies ranging from 6.3 to 40 Hz, for a total of 60 data points. Data for the bituminous mixture consisted of isotherms of E∗ and φ obtained from strain-controlled traction/compression complex modulus tests at 8 different temperatures ranging from −29.7°C to 38.8°C and frequencies ranging from 0.01 to 10 Hz, for a total of 55 data points. All users worked independently and for the same time duration of one hour to fit the 2S2P1D model on both sets of data. Successful simulations of experimental data of both bitumen and mixture were generally obtained by all the users over the whole range of frequencies and temperatures, regardless of their familiarity and experience with the model. The accuracy of the model to fit experimental data is all the more evident if the great spans of complex modulus (G∗ of the bitumen between 10−2 and 103 MPa, E∗ of the mixture between 10 and 40000 MPa) are considered. The obtained results highlight the convenience of 2S2P1D model to perform multiscale modelling of LVE behaviour of bituminous materials, from bitumens to mixtures.
Experimental and Numerical Simulation Study on the Shock and Vibration Effect of OD1422‐X80 Mainline Natural Gas Pipeline Explosion
Authors: Ma Huayuan , Zhong Mingshou , Li Xinghua , Xie Quanmin , Zhou You , Yin Qin
Published: May 2019

In this paper, the explosion experiment of the OD1422‐X80 natural gas pipeline was carried out. The phenomenon of pipeline explosion was recorded, and a large amount of data on vibration effects were obtained. The data showed that the ground vibration during the explosion was mainly caused by the physical explosion process, and the subsequent gas explosion did not produce strong vibration. Based on the ANSYS/LS‐DYNA platform, a numerical calculation model of this experiment was established. The numerical results agreed well with the experimental results. Simulation and experimental results showed that when the gas pressure in the pipe was lower than 7 MPa, the pipeline cracks stop growing. The maximum speed of the pipe wall moving outward reached 50 m/s, which formed a huge impact compression effect on the surrounding soil. This state spread to distant places and gradually decayed into an elastic stress wave, which formed a ground vibration effect. Time‐frequency analysis was introduced into the vibration signal processing. The analysis results showed that the main frequency of pipeline explosion vibration was distributed around 10 Hz and had a long duration. The research results provided a reference for subsequent gas pipeline explosion test and numerical simulation research.
Nonlinear Dynamic Behavior of Winding Hoisting Rope under Head Sheave Axial Wobbles
Authors: Wang Guoying , Xiao Xingming , Ma Chi , Cheng Gang , Di Xiao
Published: May 2019

Axial wobbles of the head sheave due to manufacturing accuracy and installation technology can exert periodic lateral excitations to the winding hoisting rope. A hoisting rope consists of a constant catenary rope from the drum to the head sheave and a variable vertical rope from the head sheave to the conveyance. The longitudinal and lateral vibration responses of the hoisting rope are coupled to each other. In this paper, the coupled lateral‐longitudinal governing equations of the winding hoisting system under the axial wobble excitations of the head sheave are established by the Hamilton principle. The governing equations are nonlinear infinite‐dimensional partial differential equations, which are discretized into the finite‐dimensional ordinary differential equations through the Galerkin method. The dynamic responses of the hoisting rope under the head sheave axial wobbles are given by MATLAB simulation when the winding hoist is lifting or lowering. The results show that lateral vibration displacements of the vertical rope under the head sheave axial wobbles are larger than those of the catenary rope. The axial wobble amplitude range of the head sheave is given to limit the lateral vibration displacements of the hoisting rope.
A Heterogeneous Energy Wireless Sensor Network Clustering Protocol
Authors: Zeng Mengjia , Huang Xu , Zheng Bo , Fan Xiangxiang
Published: May 2019

The Low-Efficiency Adaptive Clustering Hierarchical (LEACH) protocol, a hierarchical routing protocol, has the advantage of simple implementation and can effectively balance network loads. However, to date there has been a lack of consideration for its use in heterogeneous energy network environments. To solve this problem, the Energy-Coverage Ratio Clustering Protocol (E-CRCP) is proposed, which is based on reducing the energy consumption of the system and utilizing the regional coverage ratio. First, the energy model is designed. The optimal number of clusters is determined based on the principle of “minimum energy consumption”, and the cluster head selection is based on the principle of “regional coverage maximization”. In order to balance the network load as much as possible, in the next iteration of cluster head selection, the cluster head with the lowest residual energy and the highest energy consumption is replaced to prolong the network’s life. Our simulated results demonstrate that the proposed method has some advantages in terms of longer network life, load balancing, and overall energy consumption in the environment of a heterogeneous energy wireless sensor network.
Design of Robust Observer‐Based Backstepping Control for a Satellite Control System
Authors: Alshamali Saleh , Aljuwaiser Elham
Published: May 2019

This paper presents the attitude tracking of a class of satellite control systems under external disturbances. Once the error dynamics of the satellite are obtained, a nonlinear transformation expresses them in a suitable representation for the design of a high‐gain observer and backstepping control. The observer‐based backstepping controller is then designed to drive the angles of the satellite dynamics to their desired values in the presence of exogenous disturbances. Closed‐loop stability of the proposed controller is demonstrated via Lyapunov theory, and its effectiveness is confirmed through numerical simulations.
Raddeanin A Induces Apoptosis and Cycle Arrest in Human HCT116 Cells through PI3K/AKT Pathway Regulation In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Meng Chunqin , Teng Yuhao , Jiang Xiaodong
Published: May 2019

This study aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo effects of Raddeanin A on apoptosis and the cell cycle in the human colorectal cell line, HCT116, and to explore the possible underlying mechanisms of action. We found the growth inhibition rate gradually increased as the drug concentration increased via the 3-(4,5)-dimethylthiahiazo(-z-y1)-3,5-di-phenytetrazoliumromide (MTT) assay, which indicated that Raddeanin A significantly inhibited the growth of HCT116 cells. Flow cytometry (FCM) showed that Raddeanin A concentration-dependently induced apoptosis in HCT116 cells. In addition, the percentage of cells in the G0/G1phase was noticeably increased, which indicated that Raddeanin A blocked cell cycle progression in HCT116 cells and caused arrest in the G0/G1phase. Moreover, the expression of proteins involved in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway (e.g., p-PI3K and p-AKT) was decreased. The results showed that in vivo revealed that Raddeanin A significantly inhibited tumor growth in an HCT116-xenografted mouse model; apoptotic cells were also detected in the tumor tissue. The expression of the tissue proteins cyclinD1, cyclinE, p-PI3K, and p-AKT was decreased. The above results show that the Raddeanin A exerted a strong antitumor effect in the human colorectal cell line HCT116 both in vitro and in vivo. This effect may be caused by the induction of apoptosis and cycle arrest achieved through PI3K/AKT signaling pathway regulation.
Use of the Recombinant Tissue Plasminogen Activator in the Management of Complex Infected Intraperitoneal Fluid Collection
Authors: Mirrakhimov Aibek E. , Boivin Michel
Published: May 2019

Intra-abdominal infections and infected fluid collections are the result of local infection typically involving the gastrointestinal or genitourinary tract. These infections are usually polymicrobial. The management of such patients should include source control and appropriate antimicrobial therapy. Source control is essential and can be achieved either surgically or by percutaneous drainage of intra-abdominal fluid collection. Interventional radiology drainage of intra-abdominal fluid collections may be especially important in patients with high surgical risk or in patients who refuse surgery. Below, we present a case of successful use of recombinant intraperitoneal tissue plasminogen activator use in a patient with a complex polymicrobial fluid collection.