bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Under Quantum Computer Attack: Is Rainbow a Replacement of RSA and Elliptic Curves on Hardware?
Authors: Yi Haibo
Published: February 2018

Among cryptographic systems, multivariate signature is one of the most popular candidates since it has the potential to resist quantum computer attacks. Rainbow belongs to the multivariate signature, which can be viewed as a multilayer unbalanced Oil-Vinegar system. In this paper, we present techniques to exploit Rainbow signature on hardware meeting the requirements of efficient high-performance applications. We propose a general architecture for efficient hardware implementations of Rainbow and enhance our design in three directions. First, we present a fast inversion based on binary trees. Second, we present an efficient multiplication based on compact construction in composite fields. Third, we present a parallel solving system of linear equations based on Gauss-Jordan elimination. Via further other minor optimizations and by integrating the major improvement above, we implement our design in composite fields on standard cell CMOS Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs). The experimental results show that our implementation takes 4.9 us and 242 clock cycles to generate a Rainbow signature with the frequency of 50 MHz. Comparison results show that our design is more efficient than the RSA and ECC implementations.
The Union between Structural and Practical Identifiability Makes Strength in Reducing Oncological Model Complexity: A Case Study
Authors: Saccomani Maria Pia , Thomaseth Karl
Published: February 2018

Mathematical models are increasingly proposed to describe tumor’s dynamic response to treatments with the aims of improving their efficacy. The most widely used are nonlinear ODE models, whose identification is often difficult due to experimental limitations. We focus on the issue of parameter estimation in model‐based oncological studies. Given their complexity, many of these models are unidentifiable having an infinite number of parameter solutions. These equivalently describe experimental data but are associated with different dynamic evolution of unmeasurable variables. We propose a joint use of two different identifiability methodologies, structural identifiability and practical identifiability, which are traditionally regarded as disjoint. This new methodology provides the number of parameter solutions, the analytic relations between the unidentifiable parameters useful to reduce model complexity, a ranking between parameters revealing the most reliable estimates, and a way to disentangle the various causes of nonidentifiability. It is implementable by using available differential algebra software and statistical packages. This methodology can constitute a powerful tool for the oncologist to discover the behavior of inaccessible variables of clinical interest and to correctly address the experimental design. A complex model to study “in vivo” antitumor activity of interleukin‐21 on tumor eradication in different cancers in mice is illustrated.
Pretreatment with Shuanghe‐Tang Extract Attenuates Postischemic Brain Injury and Edema in a Mouse Model of Stroke: An Analysis of Medicinal Herbs Listed in Dongui Bogam
Authors: Kim Min Jae , Lee Seo-Yeon , Hwang Ji Young , Kim Hyunha , Ha Ki-Tae , Choi Byung Tae , Baek Jin Ung , Shin Hwa Kyoung
Published: February 2018

Aim. Although stroke is among the leading causes of death and long‐term disability, there are few effective treatments for limiting the severity of neurological sequelae. We evaluated the effects of 29 medicinal herbs listed in the Pung chapter of the 17th century Korean medical text Dongui Bogam on stroke symptoms in a mouse model of cerebral ischemia. Methods. Focal cerebral ischemia was induced via photothrombosis. Infarct volume, brain edema, and neurological deficits were evaluated. Immunofluorescence staining for tight junction proteins and aquaporin 4 (AQP4) was performed following ischemic injury. Results. Based on our initial findings, we examined the effects of two prescriptions in which the candidate herbs comprised more than 60% of the total formula: Shuanghe‐tang and Zengsunsiwu‐tang. Pretreatment with Shuanghe‐tang significantly reduced infarct volume, decreased blood‐brain barrier (BBB) breakdown, attenuated edema, and improved neurological and motor functions in a dose‐dependent manner (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg), while no such effects were observed in mice pretreated with Zengsunsiwu‐tang. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed significant increases in ipsilateral occludin and zonula occludens 1 (ZO‐1) expression in Shuanghe‐tang‐pretreated mice, as well as increased AQP4 immunofluorescence. Conclusions. These results indicate that Shuanghe‐tang may protect against brain injury and promote recovery of neurological function following ischemia.
A Large‐Scale Test Method for Mechanical Response of Pavement Structure
Authors: Zhou Xingye , Wang Xudong
Published: February 2018

A test method for mechanical response of pavement structure with the large scale model was presented in the study. The strain was tested on three large scale models of pavement structure with three typical pavement materials of cement concrete (CC), cement stabilized macadam (CSM) and asphalt concrete (AC) under the different load levels. Theoretical calculations of the strain on the top surface of CC, CSM and AC pavement models were also developed by BISAR3.0, which is a software for mechanical analysis based on elastic layered system. The research results indicate that the test method for mechanical response of pavement structure with large scale model presented in the study shows a low variability, and a good repeatability and reliability, which can be used as an effective way to study the mechanical response of pavement structure instead of full‐scale test. The research results can provide some references for theoretical calculation of pavement structure and determination of pavement material parameters.
Study on the Bond‐Slip Performance of CFSSTs Based on Push‐Out Tests
Authors: Wang Lai , Chen Haitao , Zhong Jitao , Chen Huirong , Xuan Wei , Mi Shuai , Yang Hongyan
Published: February 2018

To study the interfacial bond‐slip performance of concrete‐filled square steel tubes (CFSSTs), taking the core concrete strength, slenderness ratio, and width‐to‐thickness ratio as the influencing factors; 9 specimens were designed with 3 factors and 3 levels for the orthogonal test method. In addition, different from the above 9 specimens, one specimen without rust removal was designed for the purpose of comparison. Based on the bond stress distribution and deformation coordination relationships between the specimens during the push‐out tests, a theoretical formula for calculating the relative slip of a CFSST was deduced. The results show that with the increase of load, the relative slip at the loading ends was earlier than that at the free ends of the specimens; the interfacial bond failure and relative slip gradually developed from the two ends towards the centre of the specimens; the increase of the bond stress in the middle part was faster than that at the ends of the specimens. The order of these factors from main to secondary is the presence of rust in the inner wall of the square steel tube, the slenderness ratio, the core concrete strength, and the width‐to‐thickness ratio.
Flexural Behavior of RC Slabs Strengthened in Flexure with Basalt Fabric‐Reinforced Cementitious Matrix
Authors: Lee Sugyu , Hong Kinam , Yeon Yeongmo , Jung Kyusan
Published: February 2018

This paper presents both experimental and analytical research results for predicting the flexural capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) slabs strengthened in flexure with basalt fabric‐reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM). A total of 13 specimens were fabricated to evaluate the flexural behavior of RC slabs strengthened with basalt FRCM composite and were tested under four‐point loading. The fiber type, tensile reinforcement ratio, and the number of fabric layers were chosen as experimental variables. The maximum load of FRCM‐strengthened specimens increased from 11.2% to 98.2% relative to the reference specimens. The energy ratio and ductility of the FRCM‐strengthened specimens decreased with the higher amount of fabric and tensile reinforcement. The effective stress level of FRCM fabric can be accurately predicted by a bond strength of ACI 549 and Jung’s model.
Emerging Players at the Intersection of Chondrocyte Loss of Maturational Arrest, Oxidative Stress, Senescence and Low‐Grade Inflammation in Osteoarthritis
Authors: Minguzzi Manuela , Cetrullo Silvia , D’Adamo Stefania , Silvestri Ylenia , Flamigni Flavio , Borzì Rosa Maria
Published: February 2018

The prevalence of Osteoarthritis (OA) is increasing because of the progressive aging and unhealthy lifestyle. These risk factors trigger OA by removing constraints that keep the tightly regulated low turnover of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of articular cartilage, the correct chondrocyte phenotype, and the functionality of major homeostatic mechanisms, such as mitophagy, that allows for the clearance of dysfunctional mitochondria, preventing increased production of reactive oxygen species, oxidative stress, and senescence. After OA onset, the presence of ECM degradation products is perceived as a “danger” signal by the chondrocytes and the synovial macrophages that release alarmins with autocrine/paracrine effects on the same cells. Alarmins trigger innate immunity in the joint, with important systemic crosstalks that explain the beneficial effects of dietary interventions and improved lifestyle. Alarmins also boost low‐grade inflammation: the release of inflammatory molecules and chemokines sustained by continuous triggering of NF‐κB within an altered cellular setting that allows its higher transcriptional activity. Chemokines exert pleiotropic functions in OA, including the recruitment of inflammatory cells and the induction of ECM remodeling. Some chemokines have been successfully targeted to attenuate structural damage or pain in OA animal models. This represents a promising strategy for the future management of human OA.
Calculation of Unknown Preoperative K Readings in Postrefractive Surgery Patients
Authors: Rosa Nicola , De Bernardo Maddalena , Borrelli Maria
Published: February 2018

Purpose. To determine the unknown preoperative K readings (Kpre) to be used in history-based methods, for intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation in patients who have undergone myopic photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).Methods. A regression formula generated from the left eyes of 174 patients who had undergone PRK for myopia or for myopic astigmatism was compared with other methods in 168 right eyes. The Pearson index and pairedt-test were utilized for statistical analysis.Results. The differences between Kpre and those obtained with the other methods were as follows: 0.61 ± 0.94 D (range: −3.94 to 2.05 D,p<0.01) subtracting the effective treatment, 0.01 ± 0.86 D (range: −2.61 to 2.34 D,p=0.82) with Rosa’s formula, −0.02 ± 1.31 D (range: −3.43 to 3.68 D,p=0.82) with the current study formula, and −0.43 ± 1.40 D (range: −3.98 to 3.12 D,p<0.01) utilizing a mean K (Km) of 43.5 D.Conclusions. These formulas may permit the utilization of history-based methods, that is, the double-K method in calculating the IOL power following PRK when Kpre are unknown.
Access Control Points: Reducing a Possible Blast Impact by Meandering
Authors: Larcher Martin , Valsamos Georgios , Karlos Vasilis
Published: February 2018

In response to the heightened terror threat in recent years, there is an increasing interest in the introduction of access control zones at sites that are characterized by an increased likelihood of being the target of a terrorist attack, as latest data reveal that unprotected areas of mass congregation of people have become attractive to terrorist groups. Such control zones could be located within the building that has to be protected or attached to it. The elevated security needs for these areas call for a design that will consider the risk of internal explosive events. The purpose of this article is to outline a strategy for limiting the consequences of an internal blast, while guaranteeing that the produced blast wave does not propagate into vulnerable areas. In particular, the focus is on the introduction of a protective wall system in the form of a meander that allows unobstructed access of the public and at the same time reduces the possible blast inflow to the building′s interior. The performed numerical simulations show that the proposed strategy yields much smaller injury risk areas compared to a design without the addition of protective walls and is recommended for upgrading the security of buildings.
The Abnormal Expression of MicroRNA-542-3p in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Clinical Significance
Authors: Chen Xi , Zhang Qi , Ma Weijie , Lan Tian , Hong Zhenfei , Yuan Yufeng
Published: February 2018

Aim. To evaluate the expression of miRNA-542-3p in hepatocellular carcinoma, establish its function, and evaluate whether it could serve as a biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis of HCC patients. Methods. qRT-PCR analysis was performed to determine the expression level of miRNA-542-3p in normal liver cells and HCC cell lines. Additionally, samples from TCGA consortium and from our patients were analyzed using biostatistical methods to ascertain whether miR-542-3p could be a good biomarker for HCC diagnosis and prognosis. The effects of miRNA-542-3p on HCC were investigated in HCCLM9 cells. Results. The expression of miRNA-542-3p in HCC cells was significantly downregulated compared with normal liver cells. A lower level of expression of miRNA-542-3p was found in HCC tissue samples than in adjacent normal liver tissue samples from TCGA cases and our patients. Further evaluation revealed that the downregulation was clearly related to aggressive clinicopathological characteristics and affected the prognosis, as low-expressing patients tended to have shorter overall survival. Moreover, cell assays revealed that miR-542-3p overexpression inhibited HCC cell growth and induced apoptosis. Conclusion. We demonstrated for the first time that miRNA-542-3p appears to function as a novel tumor suppressor in HCC and may serve as a promising prognostic biomarker in HCC patients.
Prevention of High-Dose Cytosine Arabinoside-Induced Acute Pericarditis with Preemptive Dexamethasone Administration: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Owattanapanich Weerapat , Ruchutrakool Theera
Published: February 2018

Pericarditis/pericardial effusion (PC/PEEF) is a rare but fatal complication of cytosine arabinoside (Ara-C). We report an acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patient who developed massive pericardial effusion after a second Ara-C exposure. As Ara-C was most beneficial in controlling the leukemia, she was treated with a further cycle of Ara-C along with dexamethasone to prevent the complication from reoccurring. No PC/PEEF was subsequently detected.
Myeloid Heme Oxygenase‐1 Regulates the Acute Inflammatory Response to Zymosan in the Mouse Air Pouch
Authors: Brines Rita , Catalán Laura , Alcaraz Maria José , Ferrándiz Maria Luisa
Published: February 2018

Heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) is induced by many stimuli to modulate the activation and function of different cell types during innate immune responses. Although HO‐1 has shown anti‐inflammatory effects in different systems, there are few data on the contribution of myeloid HO‐1 and its role in inflammatory processes is not well understood. To address this point, we have used HO‐1M-KO mice with myeloid‐restricted deletion of HO‐1 to specifically investigate its influence on the acute inflammatory response to zymosan in vivo. In the mouse air pouch model, we have shown an exacerbated inflammation in HO‐1M-KO mice with increased neutrophil infiltration accompanied by high levels of inflammatory mediators such as interleukin‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and prostaglandin E2. The expression of the degradative enzyme matrix metalloproteinase‐3 (MMP‐3) was also enhanced. In addition, we observed higher levels of serum MMP‐3 in HO‐1M-KO mice compared with control mice, suggesting the presence of systemic inflammation. Altogether, these findings demonstrate that myeloid HO‐1 plays an anti‐inflammatory role in the acute response to zymosan in vivo and suggest the interest of this target to regulate inflammatory processes.
Closed-Eye Visualizations in the Setting of Hyponatremia
Authors: Peck Travis , Mercogliano Christopher , York Eugene
Published: February 2018

Purpose. To report a case of closed-eye visualizations and to clarify the different types of hallucinations and their etiologies. Methods. Retrospective case report of a patient with closed-eye visualizations secondary to hyponatremia. Clinical findings, physical exam, laboratory assessment, treatment, and disease course from the patient’s hospitalization were used in creating this report. Follow-up data after discharge were also obtained. Results. Closed-eye visualizations were diagnosed as secondary to hyponatremia, as they did not occur with the eyes open, and potential alternate causes were excluded. Serum sodium nadir was 119 mEq/L. Symptoms resolved with correction of hyponatremia via fluid resuscitation and electrolyte replenishment. There has been no recurrence of the symptoms. Conclusion. This patient had hallucinations exclusively with the eyes closed, which must be differentiated from the release hallucinations seen with the eyes open in Charles Bonnet syndrome. This patient had no visual loss or retinal disease, which should be suspected in open eye hallucinations.
Nutritional Ketosis and Mitohormesis: Potential Implications for Mitochondrial Function and Human Health
Authors: Miller Vincent J. , Villamena Frederick A. , Volek Jeff S.
Published: February 2018

Impaired mitochondrial function often results in excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and is involved in the etiology of many chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. Moderate levels of mitochondrial ROS, however, can protect against chronic disease by inducing upregulation of mitochondrial capacity and endogenous antioxidant defense. This phenomenon, referred to as mitohormesis, is induced through increased reliance on mitochondrial respiration, which can occur through diet or exercise. Nutritional ketosis is a safe and physiological metabolic state induced through a ketogenic diet low in carbohydrate and moderate in protein. Such a diet increases reliance on mitochondrial respiration and may, therefore, induce mitohormesis. Furthermore, the ketoneβ-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), which is elevated during nutritional ketosis to levels no greater than those resulting from fasting, acts as a signaling molecule in addition to its traditionally known role as an energy substrate. BHB signaling induces adaptations similar to mitohormesis, thereby expanding the potential benefit of nutritional ketosis beyond carbohydrate restriction. This review describes the evidence supporting enhancement of mitochondrial function and endogenous antioxidant defense in response to nutritional ketosis, as well as the potential mechanisms leading to these adaptations.
Cyclodextrin Enhances Corneal Tolerability and Reduces Ocular Toxicity Caused by Diclofenac
Authors: Abdelkader Hamdy , Fathalla Zeinab , Moharram Hossam , Ali Taha F. S. , Pierscionek Barbara
Published: February 2018

With advances in refractive surgery and demand for cataract removal and lens replacement, the ocular use of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has increased. One of the most commonly used NSAIDs is diclofenac (Diclo). In this study, cyclodextrins (CDs), α‐, β‐, γ‐, and HP‐β‐CDs, were investigated with in vitro irritation and in vivo ulceration models in rabbits to reduce Diclo toxicity. Diclo‐, α‐, β‐, γ‐, and HP‐β‐CD inclusion complexes were prepared and characterized and Diclo‐CD complexes were evaluated for corneal permeation, red blood cell (RBCs) haemolysis, corneal opacity/permeability, and toxicity. Guest‐ (Diclo‐) host (CD) solid inclusion complexes were formed only with β‐, γ‐, and HP‐β‐CDs. Amphipathic properties for Diclo were recorded and this surfactant‐like functionality might contribute to the unwanted effects of Diclo on the surface of the eye. Contact angle and spreading coefficients were used to assess Diclo‐CDs in solution. Reduction of ocular toxicity 3‐fold to16‐fold and comparable corneal permeability to free Diclo were recorded only with Diclo‐γ‐CD and Diclo‐HP‐β‐CD complexes. These two complexes showed faster healing rates without scar formation compared with exposure to the Diclo solution and to untreated groups. This study also highlighted that Diclo‐γ‐CD and Diclo‐HP‐β‐CD demonstrated fast healing without scar formation.
Reactive Oxygen Species in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Boukhenouna Samia , Wilson Mark A. , Bahmed Karim , Kosmider Beata
Published: February 2018

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Environmental exposure, primarily cigarette smoking, can cause high oxidative stress and is the main factor of COPD development. Cigarette smoke also contributes to the imbalance of oxidant/antioxidant due to exogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, endogenously released ROS during the inflammatory process and mitochondrial dysfunction may contribute to this disease progression. ROS and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) can oxidize different biomolecules such as DNA, proteins, and lipids leading to epithelial cell injury and death. Various detoxifying enzymes and antioxidant defense systems can be involved in ROS removal. In this review, we summarize the main findings regarding the biological role of ROS, which may contribute to COPD development, and cytoprotective mechanisms against this disease progression.
Effect of Antimicrobial Edible Coatings and Modified Atmosphere Packaging on the Microbiological Quality of Cold Stored Hake (Merluccius merluccius) Fillets
Authors: Carrión-Granda X. , Fernández-Pan I. , Rovira J. , Maté J. I.
Published: February 2018

The effect of whey protein isolate (WPI) coatings incorporated with essential oils (EOs) and combined with modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the microbiological quality of fresh hake fillets was evaluated. Fresh hake fillets were coated with different formulations of WPI-EO coatings and packaged under air and MAP conditions (50% CO2/45% N2/5% O2). When WPI-enriched films were applied with or without the presence of MAP over hake fillets with a high initial microbial population, a limited but significant effect on the microbial growth was observed. This effect was more intense on Enterobacteriaceae and H2S-producing bacteria. When hake fillets with lower initial microbial counts were treated, a more intense antimicrobial effect was observed and a synergistic effect between WPI-EO coatings and MAP was detected. A significant extension of the lag phase and reduction, primarily, on the total viable counts and H2S-producing bacteria, was detected, doubling the shelf-life of hake fillets compared with control samples. The initial microbial load of the samples is a key factor influencing the effectiveness of the treatment. The obtained results demonstrated the effectiveness of this combined strategy as a promising alternative for enhancing the microbial quality of fish products during storage at refrigeration temperatures.
Development of Future Rule Curves for Multipurpose Reservoir Operation Using Conditional Genetic and Tabu Search Algorithms
Authors: Kangrang Anongrit , Prasanchum Haris , Hormwichian Rattana
Published: February 2018

Optimal rule curves are necessary guidelines in the reservoir operation that have been used to assess performance of any reservoir to satisfy water supply, irrigation, industrial, hydropower, and environmental conservation requirements. This study applied the conditional genetic algorithm (CGA) and the conditional tabu search algorithm (CTSA) technique to connect with the reservoir simulation model in order to search optimal reservoir rule curves. The Ubolrat Reservoir located in the northeast region of Thailand was an illustrative application including historic monthly inflow, future inflow generated by the SWAT hydrological model using 50‐year future climate data from the PRECIS regional climate model in case of B2 emission scenario by IPCC SRES, water demand, hydrologic data, and physical reservoir data. The future and synthetic inflow data of reservoirs were used to simulate reservoir system for evaluating water situation. The situations of water shortage and excess water were shown in terms of frequency magnitude and duration. The results have shown that the optimal rule curves from CGA and CTSA connected with the simulation model can mitigate drought and flood situations than the existing rule curves. The optimal future rule curves were more suitable for future situations than the other rule curves.
Feasibility Assessment of Incorporating Copper Slag as a Sand Substitute to Attain Sustainable Production Perspective in Concrete
Authors: Bhoi Akshaykumar M. , Patil Yogesh D. , Patil Hemant S. , Kadam Madhav P.
Published: February 2018

Motivated by the sustainable production perspective, a laboratory testing program is exercised to ascertain the feasibility of utilizing copper slag in place of the natural fine aggregate in concrete. Totally, fifteen concrete mixtures were prepared to incorporate copper slag in place of the fine aggregate in concrete. The attributes of concrete specimens made with varying proportions of copper slag were compared (ranging from 0% to 100% substitution) at a w/c ratio of 0.44, and the optimum percentage of copper slag was decided. The w/c ratio in the mix containing optimum copper slag percentage was then varied (from 0.42 to 0.36) to examine the influence of the change in the quantity of available water on the strength attributes of concrete. Concrete specimens were assessed for workability, density, compressive strength, flexural strength, and split tensile strength. SEM images and X‐ray diffractograms of concrete specimens were also studied. The results obtained indicated a significant increase in workability and a small rise in the bulk density of concrete. The study concludes that substituting 60% sand with copper slag results in better compressive strength compared to control concrete and can be improved further by reducing the w/c ratio in the mix.
Noninvasive Estimation of Joint Moments with Inertial Sensor System for Analysis of STS Rehabilitation Training
Authors: Liu Kun , Yan Jianchao , Liu Yong , Ye Ming
Published: February 2018

An original approach for noninvasive estimation of lower limb joint moments for analysis of STS rehabilitation training with only inertial measurement units was presented based on a piecewise three-segment STS biomechanical model and a double-sensor difference based algorithm. Joint kinematic and kinetic analysis using a customized wearable sensor system composed of accelerometers and gyroscopes were presented and evaluated compared with a referenced camera system by five healthy subjects and five patients in rehabilitation. Since there is no integration of angular acceleration or angular velocity, the result is not distorted without offset and drift. Besides, since there are no physical sensors implanted in the lower limb joints based on the algorithm, it is feasible to noninvasively analyze STS kinematics and kinetics with less numbers and types of inertial sensors than those mentioned in other methods. Compared with the results from the reference system, the developed wearable sensor system is available to do spatiotemporal analysis of STS task with fewer sensors and high degree of accuracy, to apply guidance and reference for rehabilitation training or desired feedback for the control of powered exoskeleton system.
Role of Exercise‐Induced Cardiac Remodeling in Ovariectomized Female Rats
Authors: Szabó Renáta , Karácsonyi Zoltán , Börzsei Denise , Juhász Béla , Al-awar Amin , Török Szilvia , Berkó Anikó Magyariné , Takács István , Kupai Krisztina , Varga Csaba , Pósa Anikó
Published: February 2018

Myocardial extracellular matrix (ECM) is essential for proper cardiac function and structural integrity; thus, the disruption of ECM homeostasis is associated with several pathological processes. Female Wistar rats underwent surgical ovariectomy (OVX) or sham operation (SO) and were then divided into eight subgroups based on the type of diet (standard chow or high‐triglyceride diet/HT) and exercise (with or without running). After 12 weeks, cardiac MMP‐2 activity, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐2, content of collagen type I, the level of nitrotyrosine (3‐NT) and glutathione (GSH), and the ratio of infarct size were determined. Our results show that OVX and HT diet caused an excessive accumulation of collagen; however, this increase was not observed in the trained animals. Twelve weeks of exercise promoted elevation in the levels of 3‐NT and GSH and similarly an increase in MMP‐2 activity of both SO and OVX animals. The high infarct‐size ratio caused by OVX and HT diet was mitigated by physical exercise. Our findings demonstrate that ovarian estrogen loss and HT diet caused collagen accumulation and increased ratio of the infarct size. However, exercise‐induced cardiac remodeling serves as a compensatory mechanism by enhancing MMP‐2 activity and reducing fibrosis, thus minimizing the ischemia/reperfusion injury.
A Supernumerary Nipple-Like Clinical Presentation of Lymphangioma Circumscriptum
Authors: Taylor Dustin , Kash Natalie , Silapunt Sirunya
Published: February 2018

Lymphangioma circumscriptum is a superficially localized variant of lymphangioma. The characteristic clinical presentation is a “frogspawn” grouping of vesicles or papulovesicles on the proximal limb or limb girdle areas. Though most lymphangiomas develop congenitally, the lymphangioma circumscriptum subtype is known to present in adults. We report a case of lymphangioma circumscriptum on the left inframammary area of an African American female with an unusual supernumerary nipple-like clinical presentation. Our patient presented with a firm, smooth, hypopigmented papule, and the clinical diagnosis of keloid was made initially. However, she returned reporting growth of the lesion and was noted to have a firm, exophytic, lobulated, pink to skin-colored nodule. Histopathological examination demonstrated dilated lymphatic vessels, consistent with the diagnosis of lymphangioma. The presentation as a firm, hypopigmented papule and later exophytic, lobulated, skin-colored nodule in our case represents a clinical presentation of lymphangioma circumscriptum not previously described in the literature. Correct diagnosis in lymphangioma circumscriptum is vital, as recurrence following surgical resection and secondary development of lymphangiosarcoma and squamous cell carcinoma following treatment with radiation have been reported. Thus, it is important to consider lymphangioma circumscriptum in the differential of similar lesions in the future to allow appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring.
SIRT3: A New Regulator of Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Sun Wei , Liu Caixia , Chen Qiuhui , Liu Ning , Yan Youyou , Liu Bin
Published: February 2018

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading causes of death worldwide, and defects in mitochondrial function contribute largely to the occurrence of CVDs. Recent studies suggest that sirtuin 3 (SIRT3), the mitochondrial NAD+‐dependent deacetylase, may regulate mitochondrial function and biosynthetic pathways such as glucose and fatty acid metabolism and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, oxidative stress, and apoptosis by reversible protein lysine deacetylation. SIRT3 regulates glucose and lipid metabolism and maintains myocardial ATP levels, which protects the heart from metabolic disturbances. SIRT3 can also protect cardiomyocytes from oxidative stress‐mediated cell damage and block the development of cardiac hypertrophy. Recent reports show that SIRT3 is involved in the protection of several heart diseases. This review discusses the progress in SIRT3‐related research and the role of SIRT3 in the prevention and treatment of CVDs.
WPKI Certificate Verification Scheme Based on Certificate Digest Signature-Online Certificate Status Protocol
Authors: Gu Ke , Wu Na , Liu Yongzhi , Yu Fei , Yin Bo
Published: February 2018

Aiming at the problems of the WPKI certificate verification schemes based on online certificate status protocol (OCSP), this paper proposes a WPKI certificate verification scheme based on the certificate digest signature-online certificate status protocol (CDS_OCSP). Compared with the existing schemes, the proposed scheme optimizes the number of communication connections between the communication entities and the network, reduces the consumption of the wireless network bandwidth in the certificate verification process, and uses the elliptic curves cipher- (ECC-) based encrypting/decrypting functions to sign and verify the certificate digest, which ensures the consistency of the verified certificates among the communication entities. The proposed scheme makes the certificate verification process more efficient and secure. The experimental results show that the proposed scheme effectively reduces the communication consumption of the wireless network and saves the storage space of the wireless entities.
Evaluation of Individual and Combined Markers of Urine Dipstick Parameters and Total Lymphocyte Count as a Substitute for CD4 Count in Low-Resource Communities in Ghana
Authors: Anto Enoch Odame , Obirikorang Christian , Acheampong Emmanuel , Amankwaa Bright , Afranie Bright Oppong , Donkor Sampson , Hope Isaac , Jommo Juliana , Osaah Esther
Published: February 2018

We evaluated the individual and combined levels of urine dipstick and total lymphocyte count (TLC) as surrogate markers for CD4 count in a low-resource community in Ghana. This cross-sectional study recruited 200 HIV-infected patients from the Saint Francis Xavier Hospital, Assin Fosu, Ghana. Complete blood count, CD4 count, and urine dipstick analysis were measured for participants. The threshold values were determined as <350 cells/μl for CD4, <1200 cells/μl for TLC, and ≥+ on urine dipstick analysis. The mean age of participants was 43.09 years. Proteinuria ≥ + [aOR = 4.30 (3.0–18.5)], leukocyturia ≥ + [aOR = 2.91 (1.33–12.5)], hematuria ≥ + [aOR = 2.30 (1.08–9.64)], and TLC < 1200 cells/μl [aOR = 3.26 (3.94–15.29)] were significantly associated with increased risk of CD4 count < 350 cells/μl. Using the individual markers, the best substitute marker for predicting CD4 count < 350 cells/μl was proteinuria at a cutoff point ≥ 2++, AUC of 0.973, sensitivity of 97.6%, specificity of 100.0%, PPV of 100.0%, and NPV of 89.1%. A combination of ≤ 1200 TLC + ≥ 2++ (leukocyturia + proteinuria + hematuria) yielded an AUC of 0.980, sensitivity (72.8%), specificity (100.0%), PPV (100.0%), and NPV (97.9%). Proteinuria could serve as a noninvasive screening tool, but the combination of proteinuria, leukocyturia, hematuria, and TLC serves as a better substitute marker for CD4 count in monitoring the disease progression among HIV patients in low-resource communities.
XPS Studies of LSCF Interfaces after Cell Testing
Authors: DiGiuseppe Gianfranco , Boddapati Venkatesh , Mothikhana Hiten
Published: February 2018

The motivation of this investigation is to explore the possibility of using the depth profile capability of XPS to study interfaces after SOFC button cell testing. The literature uses XPS to study various cathode materials but has devoted little to the understanding of various cathode interfaces especially after testing. In this work, an SOFC button cell is first tested, and then, the LSCF cathode, barrier layer, and electrolyte are sputtered away to study the behavior of different interfaces. This work has shown that some elements have moved into other layers of the SOFC cell. It is argued that the migration of the elements is partly due to a redeposition mechanism after atoms are sputtered away, while the rest is due to interdiffusion between the SDC and YSZ layers. However, additional work is needed to better understand the mechanism by which atoms move around at different interfaces. The cell electrochemical performance is also discussed in some details but is not the focus.
Physiological Hypoxia Enhances Stemness Preservation, Proliferation, and Bidifferentiation of Induced Hepatic Stem Cells
Authors: Zhi Xiaosong , Xiong Jun , Wang Mengchao , Zhang Hongxia , Huang Gang , Zhao Jian , Zi Xiaoyuan , Hu Yi-Ping
Published: February 2018

Induced hepatic stem cells (iHepSCs) have great potential as donors for liver cell therapy due to their self‐renewal and bipotential differentiation properties. However, the efficiency of bidifferentiation and repopulation efficiency of iHepSCs is relatively low. Recent evidence shows that physiological hypoxia, a vital factor within stem cell “niche” microenvironment, plays key roles in regulating tissue stem cell biological behaviors including proliferation and differentiation. In this study, we found that physiological hypoxia (10% O2) enhanced the stemness properties and promoted the proliferation ability of iHepSCs by accelerating G1/S transition via p53‐p21 signaling pathway. In addition, short‐term hypoxia preconditioning improved the efficiency of hepatic differentiation of iHepSCs, and long‐term hypoxia promoted cholangiocytic differentiation but inhibited hepatic differentiation of iHepSCs. These results demonstrated the potential effects of hypoxia on stemness preservation, proliferation, and bidifferentiation of iHepSCs and promising perspective to explore appropriate culture conditions for therapeutic stem cells.
Practical Secure Transaction for Privacy-Preserving Ride-Hailing Services
Authors: Cao Chenglong , Zhu Xiaoling
Published: February 2018

Ride-hailing service solves the issue of taking a taxi difficultly in rush hours. It is changing the way people travel and has had a rapid development in recent years. Since the service is offered over the Internet, there is a great deal of uncertainty about security and privacy. Focusing on the issue, we changed payment pattern of existing systems and designed a privacy protection ride-hailing scheme. E-cash was generated by a new partially blind signature protocol that achieves e-cash unforgeability and passenger privacy. Particularly, in the face of a service platform and a payment platform, a passenger is still anonymous. Additionally, a lightweight hash chain was constructed to keep e-cash divisible and reusable, which increases practicability of transaction systems. The analysis shows that the scheme has small communication and computation costs, and it can be effectively applied in the ride-hailing service with privacy protection.
Optimize the Power Consumption and SNR of the 3D Photonic High-Radix Switch Architecture Based on Extra Channels and Redundant Rings
Authors: Jian Jie , Lai Mingche , Xiao Liquan
Published: February 2018

The demand from exascale computing has made the design of high-radix switch chips an attractive and challenging research field in EHPC (exascale high-performance computing). The static power, due to the thermal sensitivity and process variation of the microresonator rings, and the cross talk noise of the optical network become the main bottlenecks of the network’s scalability. This paper proposes the analyze model of the trimming power, process variation power, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for the Graphein-based high-radix optical switch networks and uses the extra channels and the redundant rings to decrease the trimming power and the process variation power. The paper also explores the SNR under different configurations. The simulation result shows that when using 8 extra channels in the 64×64 crossbar optical network, the trimming power reduces almost 80% and the process variation power decreases 65% by adding 16 redundant rings in the 64×64 crossbar optical network. All of these schemes have little influence on the SNR. Meanwhile, the greater channel spacing has great advantages to decrease the static power and increase the SNR of the optical network.
Regulation of Immune Cell Functions by Metabolic Reprogramming
Authors: Kim Jaehong
Published: February 2018

Recent findings show that the metabolic status of immune cells can determine immune responses. Metabolic reprogramming between aerobic glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, previously speculated as exclusively observable in cancer cells, exists in various types of immune and stromal cells in many different pathological conditions other than cancer. The microenvironments of cancer, obese adipose, and wound-repairing tissues share common features of inflammatory reactions. In addition, the metabolic changes in macrophages and T cells are now regarded as crucial for the functional plasticity of the immune cells and responsible for the progression and regression of many pathological processes, notably cancer. It is possible that metabolic changes in the microenvironment induced by other cellular components are responsible for the functional plasticity of immune cells. This review explores the molecular mechanisms responsible for metabolic reprogramming in macrophages and T cells and also provides a summary of recent updates with regard to the functional modulation of the immune cells by metabolic changes in the microenvironment, notably the tumor microenvironment.
Adjuvant Radiochemotherapy with a 23-Month Overall Survival Time in a Patient after a Surgery due to Splenic Hemangiosarcoma Rupture: A Case Report with the Literature Review
Authors: Bilski M. , Surdyka D. , Paśnik I. , Bilska M. , Cisek P. , Korona P. , Szumiło J. , Grzybowska-Szatkowska L.
Published: February 2018

Spleen sarcoma is one of the most rare soft tissue malignancies. The annual incidence is 0.14–0.25/1,000,000 and the average age of diagnosis is 50 to 73 years. The incidence of this cancer has been increasing. Treatment of choice is surgical splenectomy, which rarely gives good results due to the aggressive course of the disease as well as the high potential for metastasis. Overall survival in primary spleen sarcomas as described by various authors is between 4 and 14 months. 80% of patients after spleen rupture do not survive 6 months. We report the case of a 42-year-old male diagnosed with spleen angiosarcoma. The patient underwent surgery in an emergency mode because of rapid rupture of the organ. Due to positive surgical margins, he underwent adjuvant radiochemotherapy followed by chemotherapy. Overall survival time was relatively long (23 months). The international guidelines provide information based on limited data. The role of postoperative radiotherapy in angiosarcomas remains controversial. Postoperative radiotherapy may increase local disease control, especially after nonradical operation, but this does not translate into improvement in overall survival time of these patients. The case shows that adjuvant radiotherapy as part of cancer treatment strategy may prolong the overall survival.
Methylglyoxal: A Relevant Marker of Disease Activity in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Knani Ines , Bouzidi Hassan , Zrour Saoussen , Bergaoui Naceur , Hammami Mohamed , Kerkeni Mohsen
Published: February 2018

Background. The contribution of methylglyoxal (MGO) and soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) in the presence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is still unknown. We investigated whether serum MGO and sRAGE were related to the presence of disease activity in RA.Methods. 80 patients with RA and 30 control subjects were included in a cross-sectional study. The severity of RA was assessed using the disease activity score for 28 joints (DAS28). Serum MGO and sRAGE were measured by ELISA.Results. Serum MGO levels were significantly higher in patients with RA versus control subjects (P<0.001) and were increased in RA patients with higher disease activity versus RA patients with moderate disease activity (P=0.019). Serum sRAGE concentrations were significantly decreased in RA patients with higher disease activity versus RA patients with moderate disease activity and versus control subjects (P=0.004;P=0.002, resp.). A multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that MGO was independently associated with the presence of activity disease in RA (OR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.02–1.31,P=0.01).Conclusion. Serum MGO and sRAGE levels are inversely related to the activity of RA, and MGO is independently associated with a higher disease activity of RA.
Influence of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes and Biostimulators on Growth and Content of Bioactive Constituents of Karkade (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.)
Authors: Sareea Al-Rekaby Layth
Published: February 2018

This work was carried out to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT), 0, 500, and 1000 mg/L, and biostimulators (Delfan plus), 0 and 10 ml/L, and their interactions (sprayed on the plant shoot and soil until the complete wetness) on growth and production of bioactive constituents of karkade (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) planted in plastic pots. After finishing experiment, growth parameters (length of shoot and root, number of leaves, branches, and fruits, chlorophyll content, and dry weight of calyces yield) were measured and also the active compounds of aqueous extracts calyces were measured by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The obtained results explained that the experimental treatment caused a significant increase in all measured parameters. GC-MS analysis shows quantitative and qualitative alterations of bioactive constituents of water extract from calyxes of karkade, where plant production of 60 active compounds at the combination of 1000 mg/L of MWCNT and 10 ml/L of Delfan plus was compared to untreated plants which produced 4 only.
The Pilot Survey of the Perception on the Practice Pattern, Diagnosis, and Treatment on Korean Medicine Insomnia: Focusing on the Difference between Korean Medical Neuropsychiatry Specialists and Korean Medical General Practitioners
Authors: Lim Jung-Hwa , Jeong Jin-Hyung , Kim Sang-Ho , Kim Kyeong-Ok , Lee Seung-Yeon , Lee Sang-Hyup , Kim Bo-Kyung
Published: February 2018

Introduction. This study aims to investigate the clinical practice states on the diagnosis and treatment for insomnia between Korean medical general practitioners (KMGPs) and Korean medical neuropsychiatry specialists (KMNPSs). Methods. We distributed questionnaires via email or in person to 1,017 KMGPs and via email to 165 KMNPSs. We collected and analyzed responses from 305 (30.00%) KMGPs and 53 (32.12%) KMNPSs. Results. Most KMGPs and KMNPSs responded that the number of new patients visiting the clinic for treatment of insomnia was less than 10 per month (78.2%). Frequently utilized therapies for insomnia are acupuncture and herbal decoctions. Particularly acupoint GV20 and Guipi decoction were chosen with the highest response rate. There was no difference between KMNPSs and KMGPs in the traditional Korean medical diagnosis methods. However, KMNPSs utilized more various methods to diagnose, treat, and evaluate insomnia and educated more actively sleep hygiene compared to KMGPs. Conclusions. This survey showed how insomnia is currently diagnosed and treated in Korean medical care settings. Moreover, we identified some differences between KMNPSs and KMGPs. Further research is required to explore the underlying reasons for these discrepancies among KMDs and to improve the quality of Korean medical clinical practice in treating insomnia.