bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exchange Rate Volatility and Trade: An Empirical Investigation from the Egyptian Economy
Authors: Badr Osama M. , El-khadrawi Ahmed F.
Published: June 2018

The main aim of this paper is to assess empirically the impact of exchange rate volatility (ERV) on the export and import functions in reference to Egypt’s major trading partners over the period of 1980–2016. Estimates of a cointegration relationship are obtained using the ARDL model. The conditional variance of the GARCH (1,1) model is taken as a proxy for exchange rate fluctuation. The observed outcomes reveal a significant negative coefficient of volatility on export and a non-significant positive coefficient on import. Indeed, this finding supports the traditional view that higher volatility will decrease export. To avoid the negative consequences of ERV, policymakers should shift from the concept of specialization based on the comparative advantage to competitive advantage and focus on the diversification of Egyptian exports while avoiding risks associated with market concentration by exploring potential opportunities that would increase trade openness by expanding Egypt’s trade with other countries, especially with low and middle-income and emerging countries.
Two new species of Oripodoidea (Acari: Oribatida) from Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Ermilov Sergey G.
Published: June 2018

Two new species of oripodoid mites (Oribatida: Oripodoidea) are described from soil of the Oumé region in Côte d'Ivoire. Scheloribates oumensis sp. nov. (Scheloribatidae) differs from all species of the genus by the presence of strong longitudinal ridges on prodorsum. Gephyrazetes ndrii sp. nov. (Mochlozetidae) differs from Gephyrazetes umukusumae Ermilov & Starý, 2018 by the presence of ten pairs of notogastral setae and spindle-form bothridial setae. An identification key to known species of Gephyrazetes is presented.
Synchrotron radiation study of metallic titanium deposited on dielectric substrates
Authors: Bogan Justin , Selvaraju Venkateswaran , Brady-Boyd Anita , Hughes Greg , O'Connor Robert
Published: June 2018

In this work, the authors present a detailed synchrotron radiation photoemission study of the interactions of metallic titanium with dielectric substrates. In particular, the authors focus on the formation of titanium silicide upon deposition when titanium interacts with SiO2 based substrates. Both TiSi and TiSi2 are present, but TiSi2 grows preferentially upon annealing. When deposited on carbon-containing low-k materials, titanium interacts with the surface to form titanium carbide and titanium silicide. At elevated temperature, carbon in the low-k dielectric assists in the conversion of titanium silicide to titanium silicate.
Measurement of Sitting Time in Older Adults With and Without Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Watts Amber , Garnier-Villarreal Mauricio , Gardiner Paul
Published: June 2018

Time spent being sedentary is associated with poorer cognitive function and risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The present study aimed to compare patterns of sitting in a free-living environment among older adults with and without early stage AD who were similar in physical limitations, body mass, and cardiorespiratory capacity. We also compared estimates of sitting patterns between two different monitors (postural and non-postural) with different body placements (thigh-worn vs. hip-worn). Comparing older adults without cognitive impairment to those with early AD, we found that although there was no difference in the total amount of daily sitting time (p = .52), the AD group tended to have longer durations of sitting than those without AD. Inclinometry data from the hip-worn ActiGraph GT3X+ consistently underestimated time spent sitting compared to the thigh worn monitor activPAL™ (hours per day, proportion of waking hours, number of sitting bouts greater than 30 minutes, and duration of sitting bouts). Our results have implications for prevention strategies to reduce sedentary time, which is predominantly sitting, in persons with cognitive impairment and highlight the importance of monitor selection and placement for the accurate assessment of sitting patterns in this population.
Mandatory labels can improve attitudes toward genetically engineered food
Authors: Kolodinsky Jane , Lusk Jayson L.
Published: June 2018

Compared to the rest of the United States, opposition to genetic engineering fell significantly in Vermont after mandatory labeling.
Bioactive polyamine production by a novel hybrid system comprising multiple indigenous gut bacterial strategies
Authors: Kitada Yusuke , Muramatsu Koji , Toju Hirokazu , Kibe Ryoko , Benno Yoshimi , Kurihara Shin , Matsumoto Mitsuharu
Published: June 2018

Complex interactions of gut microbiota activate the production of bioactive polyamine, which exerts strong effects on the host.
Network structure of the human musculoskeletal system shapes neural interactions on multiple time scales
Authors: Kerkman Jennifer N. , Daffertshofer Andreas , Gollo Leonardo L. , Breakspear Michael , Boonstra Tjeerd W.
Published: June 2018

Changes in postural task result in a frequency-dependent reconfiguration of the multiplex muscle network.
Complete Genome Sequences of a Diverse Group of 13 Propionibacterium acnes Bacteriophages Isolated from Urban Raw Sewage
Authors: Ybazeta Gustavo , Graham Jenna , Trifkovic Jelena , Giroux Lyne , Saleh Mazen , Sattar Syed A. , Nokhbeh Reza
Published: June 2018

We present complete genome sequences of 13
Propionibacterium acnes
phages isolated from urban raw sewage. They belong to the family
Siphoviridae
, have genome sizes of 29,450.6 ± 256.5 nucleotides and G+C contents of 54.14% ± 0.22% and contain 42 to 45 coding DNA sequences (CDS).
Complete Genome Sequences of Two T4-Like Escherichia coli Bacteriophages
Authors: Costa Ana Rita , Brouns Stan J. J. , Nobrega Franklin L.
Published: June 2018

Bacteriophages and their proteins have potential applications in biotechnology for the detection and control of bacterial diseases. Here, we describe the sequencing and genome annotations of two strictly virulent
Escherichia coli
bacteriophages that may be explored for biocontrol strategies and to expand the understanding of phage-host interactions.
Draft Genome Sequences of Bifidobacterium Strains Isolated from Dietary Supplements and Cultured Food Products
Authors: Barnaba Tammy J. , Gangiredla Jayanthi , Mammel Mark K. , Lacher David W. , Elkins Christopher A. , Lampel Keith A. , Whitehouse Chris A. , Tartera Carmen
Published: June 2018

Here, we present the genome sequences of 23
Bifidobacterium
isolates from several commercially available dietary supplements and cultured food products. Strains of this genus are natural inhabitants of the mammalian mouth, gastrointestinal tract, and vagina.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Potentially Novel Streptococcus Species Belonging to the Streptococcus mitis Group
Authors: Kirkeleite Ingerid Ø. , Bohlin Jon , Scheffer Lonneke , Weme Einar T. , Vestrheim Didrik F.
Published: June 2018

We report here the draft genome sequence of a
Streptococcus
species belonging to the
S. mitis
group. While a clear species identification cannot be made for the isolate, it appears that its most recent common ancestor is the species
S. pseudopneumoniae
.
Fifty-Six Draft Genome Sequences of 10 Lactobacillus Species from 22 Commercial Dietary Supplements
Authors: Gangiredla Jayanthi , Barnaba Tammy J. , Mammel Mark K. , Lacher David W. , Elkins Christopher A. , Lampel Keith A. , Whitehouse Chris A. , Tartera Carmen
Published: June 2018

Here, we present the genome sequences of 56 isolates of 10 species of the genus
Lactobacillus
that are considered beneficial components of the gut microbiota. The isolates examined were found in commercially available dietary supplements in the U.S.
Draft Genome Sequences of Two Novel Cellulolytic Streptomyces Strains Isolated from South African Rhizosphere Soil
Authors: Adegboye Mobolaji F. , Lobb Briallen , Babalola Olubukola O. , Doxey Andrew C. , Ma Kesen
Published: June 2018

We report here the draft genome sequences of two novel strains of
Streptomyces
(NWU339 and NWU49) isolated from South African rhizosphere soils. Both strains were found to possess strong cellulolytic activity and contain numerous putative cellulase genes.
Exogenous sex steroid hormones and asthma in females: protocol for a population-based retrospective cohort study using a UK primary care database
Authors: Nwaru Bright I , Simpson Colin R , Soyiri Ireneous N , Pillinger Rebecca , Appiagyei Francis , Ryan Dermot , Critchley Hilary , Price David B , Hawrylowicz Catherine M , Sheikh Aziz
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Female sex steroid hormones have been implicated in sex-related differences in the development and clinical outcomes of asthma. The role of exogenous sex steroids, however, remains unclear. Our recent systematic review highlighted the lack of high-quality population-based studies investigating this subject. We aim to investigate whether the use of hormonal contraception and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), subtypes and route of administration are associated with asthma onset and clinical outcomes in reproductive age and perimenopausal/postmenopausal females.

Methods and analysis

Using the Optimum Patient Care Research Database (OPCRD), a national primary care database in the UK, we will construct a retrospective longitudinal cohort of reproductive age (16–45 years) and perimenopausal/postmenopausal (46–70 years) females. We will estimate the risk of new-onset asthma using Cox regression and multilevel modelling for repeated asthma outcomes, such as asthma attacks. We will adjust for confounding factors in all analyses. We will evaluate interactions between the use of exogenous sex hormones and body mass index and smoking by calculating the relative excess risk due to interaction and the attributable proportion due to interaction. With 90% power, we need 23 700 reproductive age females to detect a 20% reduction (risk ratio 0.8) in asthma attacks for use of any hormonal contraception and 6000 perimenopausal/postmenopausal females to detect a 40% (risk ratio 1.40) increased risk of asthma attacks for use of any HRT.

Ethics and dissemination

We have obtained approval (ADEPT1317) from the Anonymised Data Ethics and Protocol Transparency Committee which grants project-specific ethics approvals for the use of OPCRD data. Optimum Patient Care has an existing NHS Health Research Authority ethics approval for the use of OPCRD data for research (15/EM/150). We will present our findings at national and international scientific meetings and publish the results in international peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

EUPAS22967.
Association between presenteeism and health-related quality of life among Japanese adults with chronic lower back pain: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Tsuji Toshinaga , Matsudaira Ko , Sato Hiroki , Vietri Jeffrey , Jaffe Dena H
Published: June 2018

Objectives

This study investigated the relationship between presenteeism and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among Japanese adults with chronic lower back pain (CLBP).

Design

This was a retrospective, cross-sectional study.

Setting

Data were collected via a self-administered online survey of the Japanese adult general population.

Participants

The present study used 2014 Japan National Health and Wellness Survey (NHWS) data (n=30 000). Specifically, data were included from NHWS respondents who self-reported being employed in the past week and having experienced LBP in the past month, with these symptoms lasting for at least 3 months (n=239). 84 (35.1%) participants in this study were female.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Presenteeism and HRQoL were measured using the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire-General Health (categorical (none: 0%, low: 10%–20%, high: ≥30%) and continuous) and Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey, respectively. Covariates included patient demographics, health characteristics, pain characteristics and depression severity (Patient Health Questionnaire).

Results

Presenteeism was reported by 77.4% of respondents. High (vs no) presenteeism related to more severe pain in the prior week (4.9±2.2 vs 3.6±2.1, p=0.001) and currently (5.1±2.1 vs 3.9±3.9, p=0.007), more pain sites (1.9±1.6 vs 1.1±1.4, p=0.004) and greater depression severity (7.5±6.5 vs 3.6±3.6, p<0.001). Adjusting for covariates, high (vs no) presenteeism related to lower mental and physical HRQoL. For low versus no presenteeism, significant HRQoL differences were observed in general health (43.0, 95% CI 40.3 to 45.6 vs 46.9, 95% CI 43.9 to 49.8, p=0.015).

Conclusions

Most respondents experienced presenteeism. Those with high or low presenteeism had poorer HRQoL than respondents with no presenteeism. Monitoring presenteeism rates may help identify workers with an unmet need for better CLBP-related pain management.
Improving public understanding of ‘overdiagnosis’ in England: a population survey assessing familiarity with possible terms for labelling the concept and perceptions of appropriate terminology
Authors: Ghanouni Alex , Renzi Cristina , Waller Jo
Published: June 2018

Objectives

Communicating the concept of ‘overdiagnosis’ to lay individuals is challenging, partly because the term itself is confusing. This study tested whether alternative descriptive labels may be more appropriate.

Design

Questionnaire preceded by a description of overdiagnosis.

Setting

Home-based, computer-assisted face-to-face survey.

Participants

2111 adults aged 18–70 years in England recruited using random location sampling by a survey company. Data from 1888 participants were analysed after exclusions due to missing data.

Interventions

Participants were given one of two pieces of text describing overdiagnosis, allocated at random, adapted from National Health Service breast and prostate cancer screening leaflets.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Main outcomes were which of several available terms (eg, ‘overdetection’) participants had previously encountered and which they endorsed as applicable labels for the concept described. Demographics and previous exposure to screening information were also measured. Main outcomes were summarised with descriptive statistics. Predictors of previously encountering at least one term, or endorsing at least one as making sense, were assessed using binary logistic regression.

Results

58.0% of participants had not encountered any suggested term; 44.0% did not endorse any as applicable labels. No term was notably familiar; the proportion of participants who had previously encountered each term ranged from 15.9% to 28.3%. Each term was only endorsed as applicable by a minority (range: 27.6% to 40.4%). Notable predictors of familiarity included education, age and ethnicity; participants were less likely to have encountered terms if they were older, not white British or had less education. Findings were similar for both pieces of information.

Conclusions

Familiarity with suggested terms for overdiagnosis and levels of endorsement were low, and no clear alternative labels for the concept were identified, suggesting that changing terminology alone would do little to improve understanding, particularly for some population groups. Explicit descriptions may be more effective.
Oxidative stress and DNA damage in a long-term hexavalent chromium-exposed population in North China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Xu Jing , Zhao Meiduo , Pei Lu , Zhang Ruiming , Liu Xiaolin , Wei Lanping , Yang Mingan , Xu Qun
Published: June 2018

Objective

The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) as a human carcinogen. As reported, cancer mortality was higher in Cr(VI)-contaminated areas. Scientists have recommended studying its health impact on people living in contaminated areas. This study aims to evaluate the health risk for people living in Cr(VI)-contaminated areas.

Design

We conducted a cross-sectional study in rural areas of north-eastern China. Malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were used as oxidative stress parameters, and 8-hydroxy-2 deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) as a DNA damage biomarker. We collected information on demographics, lifestyles and length of residence from all participants using a questionnaire. Biological specimens and environmental media samples were collected on the same day as the survey was done. We used t-test, χ2test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test and multivariate linear regression analysis.

Participants

The study included 319 participants exposed to Cr(VI) and 307 unexposed participants, with 447 women and 179 men. These participants met the following criteria: (1) living in the areas for more than 10 years; (2) age older than 18 years; and (3) without occupational chromium exposure.

Results

Our study revealed that serum concentration of MDA (p<0.001), serum activities of CAT (p<0.001) and GSH-Px (p<0.001), as well as urine concentration of 8-OHdG (p=0.008) in the exposed group were significantly higher than those in the unexposed group. However, serum SOD activity was significantly lower in the exposed group, compared with that in the unexposed group (p<0.001). Cr(VI) exposure and smoking have an interaction effect on GSH-Px activity (p<0.05). Cr(VI) exposure and alcohol drinking also have an interaction effect on GSH-Px activity (p<0.05). Longer residence in the exposed areas increased the oxidative levels (p<0.05).

Conclusions

The findings of this study showed elevated oxidative stress and DNA damage in people exposed to Cr(VI).
Protocol for Meal-time Administration of Exenatide for Glycaemic Control in Type 1 Diabetes Cases (The MAG1C trial): a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Johansen Nicklas Järvelä , Dejgaard Thomas Fremming , Lund Asger , Vilsbøll Tina , Andersen Henrik Ullits , Knop Filip Krag
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Persons with type 1 diabetes require intensive insulin therapy to achieve glycaemic control, but side effects, including hypoglycaemia and weight gain, may reduce treatment compliance. We hypothesise that add-on treatment of the short-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, exenatide, to insulin therapy in persons with type 1 diabetes will reduce insulin requirements, glycaemic excursions and body weight and improve glycaemic control without increasing the risk of hypoglycaemia. The present article describes a protocol developed to test this hypothesis.

Methods and analysis

One-hundred adult persons with type 1 diabetes for more than 1 year, insufficient glycaemic control (glycated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) between 58 and 86 mmol/mol) and body mass index >22.0 kg/m2will be randomised to either exenatide 10 µg three times per day (at meal times) or placebo as add-on therapy to regular basal–bolus insulin treatment for 26 weeks. Primary endpoint is change in HbA1c between the two groups at end of treatment. Secondary endpoints include change in glycaemic excursions (assessed by continuous glucose monitoring); insulin dose; hypoglycaemic and adverse events; body weight, lean body and fat mass; dietary patterns; quality of life and treatment satisfaction; cardiovascular-disease risk profile; metabolomics; and arginine-tested plasma glucose, glucagon and C-peptide levels.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is approved by the Danish Medicines Agency, the Regional Scientific Ethics Committee of the Capital Region of Denmark and the Data Protection Agency. The study will be carried out under the surveillance and guidance of the good clinical practice (GCP) unit at Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg in accordance with the ICH-GCP guidelines and the Helsinki Declaration. Positive, negative as well as inconclusive results will be sought disseminated at scientific meetings and in international peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Trial registration number

NCT03017352.
Study protocol:Our Cultures Count, the Mayi Kuwayu Study, a national longitudinal study of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wellbeing
Authors: Jones Roxanne , Thurber Katherine A , Chapman Jan , D’Este Catherine , Dunbar Terry , Wenitong Mark , Eades Sandra J , Strelein Lisa , Davey Maureen , Du Wei , Olsen Anna , Smylie Janet K , Banks Emily , Lovett Raymond
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are Australia’s first peoples and have been connected to the land for ≥65 000 years. Their enduring cultures and values are considered critical to health and wellbeing, alongside physical, psychological and social factors. We currently lack large-scale data that adequately represent the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; the absence of evidence on cultural practice and expression is particularly striking, given its foundational importance to wellbeing.

Method and analysis

Mayi Kuwayu: The National Study of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing (Mayi Kuwayu Study) will be a large-scale, national longitudinal study of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults, with linkage to health-related administrative records. The baseline survey was developed through extensive community consultation, and includes items on: cultural practice and expression, sociodemographic factors, health and wellbeing, health behaviours, experiences and environments, and family support and connection. The baseline survey will be mailed to 200 000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults (≥16 years), yielding an estimated 16 000–40 000 participants, supplemented through face-to-face recruitment. Follow-up surveys will be conducted every 3–5 years, or as funding allows. The Mayi Kuwayu Study will contribute to filling key evidence gaps, including quantifying the contribution of cultural factors to wellbeing, alongside standard elements of health and risk.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has received approval from national Human Research Ethics Committees, and from State and Territory committees, including relevant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations. The study was developed and is conducted in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations across states and territories. It will provide an enduring and shared infrastructure to underpin programme and policy development, based on measures and values important to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Approved researchers can access confidentialised data and disseminate findings according to study data access and governance protocols.
Depressive mood and low social support are not associated with arthritis development in patients with seropositive arthralgia, although they predict increased musculoskeletal symptoms
Authors: Holla Jasmijn F M , van Beers-Tas Marian H , van de Stadt Lotte A , Landewé Robert , Twisk Jos W R , Dekker Joost , van Schaardenburg Dirkjan
Published: June 2018

Objective

Studies on the role of psychosocial vulnerability in the development of arthritis must be performed early in the disease course to exclude the reverse explanation that arthritis leads to psychological symptoms. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the longitudinal (5-year) association between depressive mood, daily stressors, avoidance coping and social support as predictors, and the development of arthritis and other clinical parameters as outcomes, in persons with seropositive arthralgia at risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods

Five-year follow-up data of 231 patients from the Reade seropositive arthralgia cohort were used. Clinical and psychological data were collected using physical examinations and questionnaires. Mixed models and Cox regression analyses were used to assess the 5-year associations between depressive mood, daily stressors, avoidance coping or social support, and the development of arthritis or clinical parameters (tender joint count, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain, VAS morning stiffness and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)).

Results

Higher scores for depressive mood and lower scores for social support were not associated with the development of arthritis nor with ESR. However, they were longitudinally associated with an increase in pain (p<0.001), morning stiffness (p<0.01) and tender joint count (p<0.001). No consistent associations were found between daily stressors, avoidance coping and the development of arthritis or other clinical parameters.

Conclusion

Although an effect on the development of arthritis could not be demonstrated, a strong longitudinal association was found between high depressive mood, low social support and clinical parameters. In persons with seropositive arthralgia, depressive symptoms and low social support may increase musculoskeletal symptoms.
Therapeutic benefit of apremilast on enthesitis and dactylitis in patients with psoriatic arthritis: a pooled analysis of the PALACE 1–3 studies
Authors: Gladman Dafna D , Kavanaugh Arthur , Gómez-Reino Juan J , Wollenhaupt Jürgen , Cutolo Maurizio , Schett Georg , Lespessailles Eric , Guerette Benoit , Delev Nikolay , Teng Lichen , Edwards Christopher J , Birbara Charles A , Mease Philip J
Published: June 2018

Objective

The Psoriatic Arthritis Long-term Assessment of Clinical Efficacy (PALACE) clinical trial programme findings demonstrated that apremilast, an oral phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor, is effective for treating psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Enthesitis and dactylitis are difficult-to-treat features of PsA leading to disability and affecting quality of life. PALACE 1, 2 and 3 data were pooled to assess the efficacy of apremilast on enthesitis and dactylitis outcomes in patients with these conditions at baseline.

Methods

Patients with enthesitis (n=945) or dactylitis (n=633) at baseline were analysed after receiving double-blind treatment with placebo, apremilast 30 mg two times per day or apremilast 20 mg two times per day up to 52 weeks and continuing up to 5 years. Data were analysed through 156 weeks. Enthesitis was evaluated by Maastricht Ankylosing Spondylitis Enthesitis Score (MASES) and dactylitis via dactylitis count.

Results

At week 24, patients receiving apremilast 30 mg two times per day demonstrated a significantly greater mean change in enthesitis (−1.3 vs −0.9; p<0.05) and dactylitis (−1.8 vs −1.3; p<0.01) vs placebo. Patients in the 30 mg dose group showed significantly greater mean (−23.6% vs −7.0%; p<0.05) and median (−50.0% vs −21.1%; p<0.05) per cent changes in MASES; mean and median per cent changes in dactylitis count were numerically, but not significantly, different for either apremilast dose in patients with dactylitis. In the patient population remaining on apremilast, observed mean and median improvements in both conditions were sustained through 156 weeks.

Conclusion

Apremilast is effective for the treatment of active PsA, including improvements in enthesitis and dactylitis up to 3 years.

Trial registration numbers

NCT01172938,NCT01212757andNCT01212770.
Patent foramen ovale and cryptogenic stroke: diagnosis and updates in secondary stroke prevention
Authors: Yuan Kristy , Kasner Scott Eric
Published: June 2018

The patent foramen ovale (PFO), given its high prevalence in the general population and especially in patients with cryptogenic stroke, has long generated investigation and debate on its propensity for stroke by paradoxical embolism and its management for stroke prevention. The pendulum has swung for percutaneous PFO closure for secondary stroke prevention in cryptogenic stroke. Based on a review of current evidence, the benefit from PFO closure relies on careful patient selection: those under the age of 60 years with few to no vascular risk factors and embolic-appearing stroke deemed cryptogenic after thorough evaluation. As these data look towards influencing guideline statements and device approvals in the future, patient selection remains the crucial ingredient for clinical decision making and future trials.
Dynamic Hand Gesture Recognition Using LMC for Flower and Plant Interaction
Authors: Liu Long , Huai Yongjian
Published: June 2018

As the recent novel somatosensory devices become more pervasive, dynamic hand gesture recognition algorithm has attracted substantial research attention and has been widely used in the area of human–computer interaction (HCI). This paper aims to develop low-complexity and real-time solutions of dynamic hand gesture recognition using Leap Motion Controller (LMC) for flower and plant interactive applications. In this paper, we use two LMCs to obtain gesture data from different angles for fusion processing and then propose a novel feature vector, which adapts to representing dynamic hand gestures. After this, an improved Hidden Markov Model (HMM) algorithm was proposed to obtain the final recognition results, in which we apply the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to avoid the complex computation of parameters in conventional HMM, thus improving the recognition performance. The experimental results on test datasets demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can achieve a higher average recognition rate of 96.5% for Leap-Gesture and 97.3% for Manipulation-Gesture. In addition, through the experiment of a flower and plant interaction, our dynamic gesture recognition solution can help users realize the interactive operation accurately and efficiently. In contrast to previous studies, our prototype system provides the users with a new dimension of experience and changes the research model of traditional forestry.
Novel Lossless Grounded and Floating Inductance Simulators Employing a Grounded Capacitor Based on CC-CFA
Authors: Singh Amrita , Jain Manoj Kumar , Wairya Subodh
Published: June 2018

Simulation of inductors has been a very popular area of analog circuit research and the alternative choice for realizing inductor-based circuits in integrated circuits. In this paper, lossless, grounded and floating inductor topologies using current-controlled-current-feedback amplifier (CC-CFA) with single grounded capacitor are presented. The proposed topologies can be tuned electronically by changing the biasing current of the CC-CFA. Two topologies for grounded inductor simulator employ two CC-CFA and one grounded capacitor. One topology for floating inductor simulator employs three CC-CFA and one grounded capacitor. The performance of the grounded and floating inductor simulators are demonstrated on resonant circuits. The theoretical analysis is verified by PSPICE simulation results.
China’s Parliamentary Sessions 2018: New Cabinet with State Organs Revamped
Authors: CHEN Juan , HO Ryan
Published: June 2018

In the quinquennial state leadership reshuffle in March 2018, Xi Jinping and Li Keqiang resumed their posts as Chinese president and premier, respectively. Wang Qishan, Li Zhanshu and Wang Yang became the respective vice president, National People’s Congress chairman and Chinese Political People’s Consultative Conference chairman. This parliamentary session revamped the state organs. The restructuring eliminated six ministries, two ministry-level agencies and seven vice-ministry level institutions at the cabinet level.
World Class 2.0: China’s Major Initiative in Higher Education
Authors: ZHAO Litao
Published: June 2018

In September 2017, China released a list of universities to be developed into world-class universities or universities with world-class disciplines. As Xi Jinping’s most important initiative in higher education, the “Double World-Class” project is expected to advance Chinese universities in major international league tables. While the best Chinese universities aspire to equal the world’s best, deeper changes are needed in the governing of universities, allocating of research funding and fostering of conducive research environment.
Investigation of structural phase evolution and dielectric response of Co-doped BaTiO3
Authors: Mansuri Amantulla , Bhatti Ilyas Noor , Bhatti Imtiaz Noor , Mishra Ashutosh
Published: June 2018

In the present study, we have synthesized polycrystalline samples of BaTi[Formula: see text]CoxO3 (BTCO) ([Formula: see text], 0.01, 0.03, 0.05, 0.07 and 0.10) with standard solid state reaction technique. The obtained samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy for structural study. The detailed structural analysis has been performed by Rietveld refinement using Fullprof program. We observed an increase in lattice parameters, which results due to substitution of Co[Formula: see text] with large ionic radii (0.9[Formula: see text]Å) for smaller ionic radii (0.6[Formula: see text]Å) Ti[Formula: see text]. Moreover, peak at 45.5∘ shifts to 45∘ on Co doping, which is due to structure phase transition from tetragonal to cubic. Raman study infers that the intensity of characteristic peaks decreases and line width increases with Co doping. The bands linked with the tetragonal structure (305[Formula: see text]cm[Formula: see text]) decreased due to the tetragonal-to-cubic phase transition with Co doping. Our structural study reveals the expansion of BTCO unit cell and tetragonal-to-cubic phase transformation takes place. The results from different characterization techniques are conclusive and show structural evolution with Co doping. The samples are further characterized by dielectric spectroscopy, dielectric measurement reveals the increase of dielectric constant and transition [Formula: see text]C is observed for Barium titanate (BaTiO3), whereas transition disappears with Co doping. Both temperature and frequency-dependent tangent loss is also studied.
Enhanced navigation using computer vision-based steering angle calculation for autonomous vehicles
Authors: Rochan M. Ranjith , Alagammai K. Aarthi , Sujatha J.
Published: June 2018

A key requirement in the development of intelligent and driverless vehicles is steering angle computation for efficient navigation. This paper presents a novel method for computing steering angle for driverless vehicles using computer vision-based techniques of relatively lower computing cost. The proposed system consists of four major stages. The first stage includes dynamic road region extraction using Gaussian mixture model and expectation maximization algorithm. The second stage is to compute the steering angle based on the extracted road region. Subsequently, Kalman filtering technique is used to cancel spurious angle transition noises. In addition, future steering angle is estimated which in turn gives informative feedback for smooth navigation of the vehicle. The proposed algorithm was tested both on a simulator and real-time images and was found to give a good estimation of actual steering angle required for navigation. Further, it was also observed that this works in different lighting conditions as well as for both structured and unstructured road scenarios.
Making machine learning robust against adversarial inputs
Authors: Goodfellow Ian , McDaniel Patrick , Papernot Nicolas
Published: June 2018

Such inputs distort how machine-learning-based systems are able to function in the world as it is.
Research for practice
Authors: Vasisht Deepak , Bailis Peter
Published: June 2018

Expert-curated guides to the best of CS research.
Why cryptocurrencies use so much energy
Authors: Kugler Logan
Published: June 2018

The electricity consumption of mining for cryptocurrencies is becoming a real concern. Here's what to do about it.
Bringing the internet to the (developing) world
Authors: Kirkpatrick Keith
Published: June 2018

A growing number of low-cost (and free!) solutions aim to open the Internet to developing regions.
The Syntax and Semantics of Nonfinite Forms
Authors: Lowe John J.
Published: June 2018

The syntactic and semantic properties of nonfinite verb categories can best be understood in relation to and distinction from the corresponding properties of finite verb categories. In order to explore these issues, it is necessary to provide a crosslinguistically valid characterization of finiteness. Finiteness is a prototypical notion, understood in relation to a language-specific finite verb prototype; nonfiniteness is therefore understood in terms of degrees of deviation from this prototype. The syntactic properties of nonfinite verb categories, so defined, can be considered from two perspectives: the functions of nonfinite clauses within superordinate clauses (e.g., argument and adjunct functions) and the internal structure of nonfinite verb phrases. Typical of the second aspect is that nonfinite phrases tend to be defective in one or another respect, relative to finite phrases, which may be understood in terms of lacking functional projections or features which are an obligatory part of finite phrases. This defectiveness relative to the finite prototype plays out also in the semantics; typically, certain aspects of the meaning of nonfinite phrases are not independently specified, but must be derived from semantic properties of a superordinate finite clause.
Structural, Functional, and Genomic Diversity of Plant NLR Proteins: An Evolved Resource for Rational Engineering of Plant Immunity
Authors: Monteiro Freddy , Nishimura Marc T.
Published: June 2018

Plants employ a diverse intracellular system of NLR (nucleotide binding–leucine-rich repeat) innate immune receptors to detect pathogens of all types. These receptors represent valuable agronomic traits that plant breeders rely on to maximize yield in the face of devastating pathogens. Despite their importance, the mechanistic underpinnings of NLR-based disease resistance remain obscure. The rapidly increasing numbers of plant genomes are revealing a diverse array of NLR-type immune receptors. In parallel, mechanistic studies are describing diverse functions for NLR immune receptors. In this review, we intend to broadly describe how the structural, functional, and genomic diversity of plant immune receptors can provide a valuable resource for rational engineering of plant immunity.
Simvastatin Improves the Jaw Bone Microstructural Defect Induced by High Cholesterol Diet in Rats by Regulating Autophagic Flux
Authors: Zhou Jianhua , Gao Xiaoli , Huang Shengyun , Ma Li , Cui Yanjun , Wang Hengkun , Qiu Jianzhong , Wang Lili , Dong Quanjiang , Chen Zhenggang , Wang Xuxia , Zhang Dongsheng
Published: June 2018

Objective. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of simvastatin on the jaw bone microstructural defect and autophagy in rats with high cholesterol diet (HCD). Methods. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a standard rodent chow (NC group) or a high cholesterol diet for 32 weeks and the HCD-fed rats were treated with vehicle (HC group) or simvastatin (5 mg/kg orally daily for 8 weeks, HC + SIM group, and n=10/group). The static histomorphometric changes in the jaw bone tissues in individual rats were evaluated. The relative levels of OPG, RANKL, NF-κB, LC3, and p62 in the jaw bone tissues were determined by quantitative RT-PCR and/or immunohistochemistry. Results. Compared with the NC group, the HC groups had lower trabecular bone volume, trabecular thickness and trabecular number, and increased ratios of RANKL/OPG in the jaw bone, accompanied by enhanced NF-κB activation and autophagy. Simvastatin treatment inhabited these changes, including the decreased levels of serum proinflammatory cytokines and increased autophagy. Conclusion. Simvastatin treatment could inhibit the hyperlipidemia-induced jaw bone microstructural defect in rats by increasing autophagic flux.
Vitamin K and Bone Metabolism: A Review of the Latest Evidence in Preclinical Studies
Authors: Akbari Solmaz , Rasouli-Ghahroudi Amir Alireza
Published: June 2018

Bone is a metabolically active tissue that renews itself throughout one’s life. Cytokines along with several hormonal, nutritional, and growth factors are involved in tightly regulated bone remodeling. Accordingly, vitamin K as a multifunctional vitamin has been recently deemed appreciable as a topic of research as it plays a pivotal role in maintenance of the bone strength, and it has been proved to have a positive impact on the bone metabolism. Vitamin K exerts its anabolic effect on the bone turnover in different ways such as promoting osteoblast differentiation, upregulating transcription of specific genes in osteoblasts, and activating the bone-associated vitamin k dependent proteins which play critical roles in extracellular bone matrix mineralization. There is also credible evidence to support the effects of vitamin k2 on differentiation of other mesenchymal stem cells into osteoblast. The main objective of the present paper is to comprehensively outline the preclinical studies on the properties of vitamin K and its effects on the bone metabolism. The evidence could shed light on further clinical studies to improve osteogenesis in bone graft surgeries.
Evaluation of the Direct and Indirect Regulation Pathways of Glutathione Target to the Hepatotoxicity of Microcystin-LR
Authors: Zong Wan-song , Zhang Shu-han , Wang Qian , Teng Yue , Liu Yu-zhen , Du Yong-gang
Published: June 2018

Glutathione (GSH) plays crucial roles in regulating the hepatotoxicity of Microcystin-LR (MCLR) by inhibiting oxidative stress or by toxin conjugation. Based on MCLR conjugation product preparation and purification, the direct and indirect regulation pathways for GSH were fully evaluated. Protein phosphatase inhibition analysis verified that GSH conjugation was an effective pathway to regulate the inhibition effect of MCLR, while GSH had slight influence on the toxicity of MCLR. Research on oxidative stress showed that both regulation pathways could reduce the formation of reactive oxygen species (stimulated by MCLR and regulated by NADH oxidase) and regulate the adverse effects on antioxidant enzymes. By evaluating the contributions for both pathways, it could be found that the indirect pathway had significant contribution to eliminating cellular reactive oxygen species and regulating protein phosphatases inhibition, while the direct regulation pathway had moderate influence. As glutathione transferases facilitated the transformation of MCLR, the hepatotoxicity of MCLR could be effectively regulated by GSH conjugation pathway, especially with abundant exogenous GSH.
Impairment of Quality of Life among Patients with Wearable Cardioverter Defibrillator Therapy (LifeVest®): A Preliminary Study
Authors: Lackermair Korbinian , Schuhmann Christoph G. , Kubieniec Michaela , Riesinger Lisa M. , Klier Ina , Stocker Thomas J. , Kääb Stefan , Estner Heidi L. , Fichtner Stephanie
Published: June 2018

Background. Wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD) therapy is feasible and safe in patients as a transient protection against sudden cardiac death (SCD). However, the impact of WCD therapy on quality of life (QoL) has not been studied. Methods. In our single-centre study, 109 consecutive patients with a prescription of WCD were retrospectively analysed. Quality of life has been assessed by a standardized questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L, modified). Additionally, clinical baseline and follow-up data and recorded arrhythmic episodes were evaluated. Results. Mean WCD therapy time was 56.2 (± 42.4) days, with a daily wear time of 19.7 (± 5) hours. A total of 3441 arrhythmia episodes were detected. Of these, 27 (1%) were adequate but did not require shock therapy. Likewise, no inadequate shock therapy occurred. WCD therapy negatively affected quality of life: 43% of patients reported mental health issues. 37% reported pain or discomfort. Self-care, usual activities, and mobility were restricted in 17%, 48%, and 36%, respectively. 29% were afraid of receiving shock therapy, and 48% suffered from sleep disturbance. However, 64% indicated having felt safe during WCD therapy. Accordingly, average quality of life was rated 70/100 points. Conclusion. In our cohort, no SCD was prevented by WCD therapy. In contrast, in this preliminary study quality of life was reduced. Thus, careful recommendation of WCD therapy for high risk patients should be considered.
A Blind Spot in the Diagnostic Field: The Challenging Diagnosis of Tumefactive Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Mando Ramy , Muallem Emile , Meka Shaiva G. , Berghea Ramona
Published: June 2018

Tumefactive Multiple Sclerosis (TMS) is a rare variant with 1 per 1000 cases of MS and 3 per million cases per year. TMS can mimic clinical and radiological features of a neoplasm, infarction, or abscess and therefore can be diagnostically challenging for clinicians. We present a clinical scenario of a patient presenting with left homonymous hemianopia with atypical radiological features initially thought to be more consistent with neoplasm or infraction. Ultimately, biopsy was done which led to the diagnosis of tumefactive multiple sclerosis.
Lumbosacral Defects in a 16th–18th-Century Joseon Dynasty Skeletal Series from Korea
Authors: Kim Yi-Suk , Kim Hankyu , Hong Jong Ha , Lee Hye-Jin , Kim Myeung Ju , Shin Dong Hoon
Published: June 2018

Paleopathological evidence for congenital and degenerative disorders of the lumbosacral vertebrae is informative about ancient individual lifeways and physical conditions. However, very few studies have focused on the paleopathology of the lumbosacral vertebrae in ancient skeletal series from East Asia. One reason for the lack of studies is that skeletal samples from East Asia are typically insufficient in size to represent populations for comparative studies within the continent. Here, we present the first comprehensive analysis of lumbosacral defects in an East Asian human skeletal sample, examining occurrences of spina bifida occulta (SBO), lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV), and spondylolysis in remains from Joseon tombs dating to the 16–18th centuries in Korea. In this study, we present an alternative methodology for understanding activities of daily life among ancient Koreans through paleopathological analysis.
An Optimization Method for Maximizing the Low Frequency Sound Insulation of Plate Structures
Authors: Ou Dayi
Published: June 2018

A combined approach based on finite element method, boundary element method, and genetic algorithm (FEM‐BEM‐GA) is proposed for optimizing the low frequency sound (LFS) insulation performance of plate structures. This approach can identify the optimal structural parameters (especially concerning the effects of arbitrary boundary conditions) so as to maximize the structural overall LFS insulation. The basic ideas of this approach are as follows: (1) the sound transmission loss (TL) analysis of a plate with arbitrary boundary conditions is conducted by the coupled FEM‐BEM method; (2) the single‐number rating method (such as low frequency sound transmission class) is used to assess the plate’s overall LFS insulation; and (3) the genetic algorithm (GA) is employed for searching the optimal solutions of the multiple‐parameter optimization problem. The proposed approach is subsequently illustrated by numerical studies. The results show the effectiveness of consideration of the effects of boundary condition in the plate’s LFS insulation optimization and demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of this approach as a structure design tool.
Deciphering Platelet Kinetics in Diagnostic and Prognostic Evaluation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Aryal Bibek , Yamakuchi Munekazu , Shimizu Toshiaki , Kadono Jun , Furoi Akira , Gejima Kentaro , Komokata Teruo , Hashiguchi Teruto , Imoto Yutaka
Published: June 2018

Liver pathophysiology can, directly and indirectly, impose morphological or biochemical abnormalities of the platelets. Conversely, platelets are also able to regulate the promitogenic and profibrotic signals on liver pathobiology. Platelet contribution to the liver pathophysiology is typically facilitated by the platelet-derived growth factors that are sequestered in different subsets of alpha and dense granules, and the release of these growth factors is synchronized according to the stage and type of liver disease or injury. Thus, platelets harbor clinically relevant information with potential diagnostic and prognostic implications in liver diseases. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) largely influences the platelet kinetics, and a growing body of evidence has recognized its association with HCC occurrence or prognosis. This narrative review summarizes the progress made on implicating platelet as a diagnostic and prognostic tool for HCC; the review also dissects the contradictory results from earlier studies and reflects how combining platelet-based information may enable more reliable test for diagnostic and prognostic evaluation of HCC.