bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Blood Flow Restricted Electrostimulation on Strength and Hypertrophy
Authors: Slysz Joshua T. , Burr Jamie F.
Published: May 2017

Context: The combined effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and blood flow restriction (BFR) on muscle mass and strength has not been thoroughly investigated. Objective: To examine the effects of combined and independent BFR and a low-intensity NMES on skeletal muscle adaptation. Design: Exploratory study. Setting: Laboratory. Participants: Twenty recreationally active subjects. Main Outcome Measures: Subjects had each leg randomly allocated to 1 of 4 possible intervention groups: (1) cyclic BFR alone, (2) NMES alone, (3) BFR + NMES, or (4) control. Each leg was stimulated in its respective intervention group for 32 minutes, 4 days per week for 6 weeks. Mean differences in size (in grams) and isometric strength (in kilograms), between week 0 and week 6, were calculated for each group. Results: Leg strength increased 32 (19) kg in the BFR + NMES group, which differed from the 3 (11) kg change in the control group (P = .03). The isolated NMES and BFR groups revealed increases of 16 (28) kg and 18 (17) kg, respectively, but these did not statistically differ from the control, or one another. No alterations were statistically significant for leg size. Conclusion: Compared with a control that received no treatment, the novel combination of BFR and NMES led to increasing muscular strength of the knee extensors, but not muscle mass which had a large interindividual variability in response.
The effects of micronutrient deficiencies on bacterial species from the human gut microbiota
Authors: Hibberd Matthew C. , Wu Meng , Rodionov Dmitry A. , Li Xiaoqing , Cheng Jiye , Griffin Nicholas W. , Barratt Michael J. , Giannone Richard J. , Hettich Robert L. , Osterman Andrei L. , Gordon Jeffrey I.
Published: May 2017

Mechanistic studies reveal pronounced effects of vitamin A deficiency on bacterial members of a defined human gut microbiota.
Chemotherapy-treated cells go up in flames
Authors: Sarosiek Kristopher
Published: May 2017

Apoptosis induced by chemotherapies can also trigger proinflammatory pyroptosis.
Turning back the clock
Authors: Shoemaker Ashley H.
Published: May 2017

Increased DNA breaks in aging skeletal muscle activate the DNA-PK pathway, whereas blocking this pathway improves mitochondrial density, physical fitness, body weight, and insulin resistance in mice.
Population Genomic Analysis of 1,777 Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Isolates, Houston, Texas: Unexpected Abundance of Clonal Group 307
Authors: Long S. Wesley , Olsen Randall J. , Eagar Todd N. , Beres Stephen B. , Zhao Picheng , Davis James J. , Brettin Thomas , Xia Fangfang , Musser James M.
Published: May 2017

Klebsiella pneumoniae
is a major human pathogen responsible for high morbidity and mortality rates. The emergence and spread of strains resistant to multiple antimicrobial agents and documented large nosocomial outbreaks are especially concerning. To develop new therapeutic strategies for
K. pneumoniae
, it is imperative to understand the population genomic structure of strains causing human infections. To address this knowledge gap, we sequenced the genomes of 1,777 extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing
K. pneumoniae
strains cultured from patients in the 2,000-bed Houston Methodist Hospital system between September 2011 and May 2015, representing a comprehensive, population-based strain sample. Strains of largely uncharacterized clonal group 307 (CG307) caused more infections than those of well-studied epidemic CG258. Strains varied markedly in gene content and had an extensive array of small and very large plasmids, often containing antimicrobial resistance genes. Some patients with multiple strains cultured over time were infected with genetically distinct clones. We identified 15 strains expressing the New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase 1 (NDM-1) enzyme that confers broad resistance to nearly all beta-lactam antibiotics. Transcriptome sequencing analysis of 10 phylogenetically diverse strains showed that the global transcriptome of each strain was unique and highly variable. Experimental mouse infection provided new information about immunological parameters of host-pathogen interaction. We exploited the large data set to develop whole-genome sequence-based classifiers that accurately predict clinical antimicrobial resistance for 12 of the 16 antibiotics tested. We conclude that analysis of large, comprehensive, population-based strain samples can assist understanding of the molecular diversity of these organisms and contribute to enhanced translational research.

IMPORTANCE
Klebsiella pneumoniae
causes human infections that are increasingly difficult to treat because many strains are resistant to multiple antibiotics. Clonal group 258 (CG258) organisms have caused outbreaks in health care settings worldwide. Using a comprehensive population-based sample of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing
K. pneumoniae
strains, we show that a relatively uncommon clonal type, CG307, caused the plurality of ESBL-producing
K. pneumoniae
infections in our patients. We discovered that CG307 strains have been abundant in Houston for many years. As assessed by experimental mouse infection, CG307 strains were as virulent as pandemic CG258 strains. Our results may portend the emergence of an especially successful clonal group of antibiotic-resistant
K. pneumoniae
.
The systolic paradox in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Haland Trine F , Hasselberg Nina E , Almaas Vibeke Marie , Dejgaard Lars A , Saberniak Jørg , Leren Ida S , Berge Knut Erik , Haugaa Kristina H , Edvardsen Thor
Published: May 2017

Objective

We explored cardiac volumes and the effects on systolic function in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients with left ventricular hypertrophy (HCM LVH+) and genotype-positive patients without left ventricular hypertrophy (HCM LVH−).

Methods

We included 180 HCM LVH+, 100 HCM LVH− patients and 80 healthy individuals. End-Diastolic Volume Index (EDVI), End-Systolic Volume Index (ESVI) and ejection fraction (EF) were assessed by echocardiography. Left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain (GLS) was measured by speckle tracking echocardiography.

Results

EDVI and ESVI were significantly smaller in HCM LVH+ compared with HCM LVH− patients (41±14 mL/m2vs 49±13 mL/m2and 16±7 mL/m2vs 19±6 mL/m2, respectively, both p<0.001) and in healthy individuals (41±14 mL/m2vs 57±14 mL/m2and 16±7 mL/m2vs 23±9 mL/m2, respectively, both p<0.001). HCM LVH− patients had significantly lower EDVI and ESVI compared with healthy individuals (49±13 mL/m2vs 57±14 mL/m2and 19±6 mL/m2vs 23±9 mL/m2, both p<0.001). EF was similar (61%±7% vs 60%±8% vs 61%±6%, p=0.43) in the HCM LVH+, HCM LVH– and healthy individuals, despite significantly worse GLS in the HCM LVH+ (−16.4%±3.7% vs −21.3%±2.4% vs −22.3%±3.7%, p<0.001). GLS was worse in the HCM LVH− compared with healthy individuals in pairwise comparison (p=0.001). Decrease in ESVI was closely related to EF in HCM LVH+ and HCM LVH− (R=0.45, p<0.001 and R=0.43, p<0.001) as expected, but there was no relationship with GLS (R=0.02, p=0.77 and R=0.11, p=0.31). Increased maximal wall thickness (MWT) correlated significantly with worse GLS (R=0.58, p<0.001), but not with EF (R=0.018, p=0.30) in the HCM LVH+ patients.

Conclusion

HCM LVH+ had smaller cardiac volumes that could explain the preserved EF, despite worse GLS that was closely related to MWT. HCM LVH− had reduced cardiac volumes and subtle changes in GLS compared with healthy individuals, indicating a continuum of both volumetric and systolic changes present before increased MWT.
Clinical and cost-effectiveness of adapted cognitive behaviour therapy for non-cardiac chest pain: a multicentre, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Tyrer Peter , Tyrer Helen , Morriss Richard , Crawford Michael , Cooper Sylvia , Yang Min , Guo Boliang , Mulder Roger T , Kemp Samuel , Barrett Barbara
Published: May 2017

Objective

To investigate the cost-effectiveness of a modified form of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for recurrent non-cardiac chest pain.

Methods

We tested the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a modified form of CBT for chest pain (CBT-CP)(4–10 sessions) in patients who attended cardiology clinics or emergency medical services repeatedly. Patients were randomised using a remote web-based system to CBT-CP or to standard care in the clinic. Assessments were made at baseline and at 6 months and 12 months. The primary outcome was the change in the Health Anxiety Inventory Score at 6 months. Other clinical measures, social functioning, quality of life and costs of services were also recorded.

Results

Sixty-eight patients were randomised with low attrition rates at 6 months and 12 months with 81% of all possible assessments completed at 6 months and 12 months. Although there were no significant group differences between any of the outcome measures at either 6 months or 12 months, patients receiving CBT-CP had between two and three times fewer hospital bed days, outpatient appointments, and A&E attendances than those allocated to standard care and total costs per patient were £1496.49 lower, though the differences in costs were not significant. There was a small non-significant gain in quality adjusted life years in those allocated to CBT-CP compared with standard care (0.76 vs 0.74).

Conclusions

It is concluded that CBT-CP in the context of current hospital structures is not a viable treatment, but is worthy of further research as a potentially cost-effective treatment for non-cardiac chest pain.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN 14711101.
Effect of message congruency on attention and recall in pictorial health warning labels
Authors: Lochbuehler Kirsten , Mercincavage Melissa , Tang Kathy Z , Dana Tomlin C , Cappella Joseph N , Strasser Andrew A
Published: May 2017

Objective

The nine pictorial health warning labels (PWLs) proposed by the US Food and Drug Administration vary in format and feature of visual and textual information. Congruency is the degree to which visual and textual features reflect a common theme. This characteristic can affect attention and recall of label content. This study investigates the effect of congruency in PWLs on smoker’s attention and recall of label content.

Methods

120 daily smokers were randomly assigned to view either congruent or incongruent PWLs, while having their eye movements recorded. Participants were asked to recall label content immediately after exposure and 5 days later.

Results

Overall, the image was viewed more and recalled better than the text. Smokers in the incongruent condition spent more time focusing on the text than smokers in the congruent condition (p=0.03), but dwell time of the image did not differ. Despite lower dwell time on the text, smokers in the congruent condition were more likely to correctly recall it on day 1 (p=0.02) and the risk message of the PWLs on both day 1 (p=0.01) and day 5 (p=0.006) than smokers in the incongruent condition.

Conclusions

This study identifies an important design feature of PWLs and demonstrates objective differences in how smokers process PWLs. Our results suggest that message congruency between visual and textual information is beneficial to recall of label content. Moreover, images captured and held smokers’ attention better than the text.
The communal relation ofMTHFR,MTR,ACEgene polymorphisms and hyperhomocysteinemia as conceivable risk of coronary artery disease
Authors: Masud Rizwan , Baqai Haider Zaigham
Published: May 2017

Homocysteine and its modulating genes have strongly emerged as novel biomarkers for coronary artery disease (CAD). In the present study, we investigated whether polymorphisms in homocysteine pathway genes and the plasma levels of homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12, independently or in combination, are associated with CAD risk. A total of 504 participants were recruited (cases, n = 254; controls, n = 250, respectively). Tetra primer allele refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for resolving the genotypes of 5′10′ methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase ‘MTHFR’ polymorphisms (rs1801133, rs1801131), 5′ methyl tetrahydrofolate homocysteine methyltransferase ‘MTR’ polymorphism (rs1805087), paroxanse1 ‘PON1’ polymorphism (rs662), and cystathionine beta synthase ‘CBS’ polymorphism (rs5742905). Conventional PCR amplification was carried out for resolving angiotensin converting enzyme ‘ACE’ insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism (rs4646994). ANOVA analysis, adjusted for the covariates, revealed that rs1801133, rs1805087 polymorphisms and homocysteine levels were associated with CAD. Logistic regression analysis (adjusted) revealed similar findings. Logistic regression analysis after applying factorial design to the studied single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) revealed that homocysteine levels and heterozygous and mutant alleles at rs1801133, rs1805087, along with mutant alleles at rs1801131, rs4646994, conferred higher risk for CAD. Our results provide insight into the multifactorial nature of coronary artery disease. We highlight that SNPs in folate pathway genes and homocysteine have role in disease causation and can be used in disease prediction strategies.
Investigation of solvation effects on iron(II) and iron(III) salt solutions by X-ray absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Maclennan Aimee , Hu Yongfeng
Published: May 2017

The effects of solvation on iron salts has been studied by in situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). It was seen that the solvated iron is significantly different from the solid precursor when dissolved in a variety of common solvents. Changes in the chemical and electronic properties of the solvated species make it essential to understand what is happening in solution prior to choosing appropriate reference materials for the interpretation of X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy (XANES) and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) data. An understanding of the complexity of analyzing liquid systems by XAS is gained from this research.
Resveratrol promotes recovery of immune function of immunosuppressive mice by activating JNK/NF-κB pathway in splenic lymphocytes
Authors: Lai Xin , Cao Mei , Song Xu , Jia Renyong , Zou Yuanfeng , Li Lixia , Liang Xiaoxia , He Changliang , Yin Lizi , Yue Guizhou , Ye Gang , Yin Zhongqiong
Published: May 2017

Resveratrol, a natural compound found in over 70 plants, is known to possess immunoregulatory effects and anti-inflammatory activity. It has been shown that resveratrol has regulatory effects on different signaling pathways in different diseases. However, few reports have evaluated the effects of resveratrol on reinforcing immunity recovery via activating nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway and Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) pathway. The present study aimed to assess immune-enhancing activity and underlying mechanism of resveratrol in immunosuppressive mice. Previously, we reported that resveratrol could promote mouse spleen lymphocyte functions to recover the immune system effectively. In the present study, we show that resveratrol could upregulate the expressions of NF-κB, IκB kinase, JNK, and c-jun in splenic lymphocytes of immunosuppressive mice. Taken together, our results indicate that resveratrol could promote recovery of immunologic function in immunosuppressive mice by activating JNK/NF-κB pathway.
Rokhlin dimension of ℤm-actions on simple C∗-algebras
Authors: Liao Hung-Chang
Published: May 2017

We study Rokhlin dimension of [Formula: see text]-actions on simple separable stably finite nuclear [Formula: see text]-algebras. We prove that under suitable assumptions, a strongly outer [Formula: see text]-action has finite Rokhlin dimension. This extends the known result for automorphisms. As an application, we show that for a large class of [Formula: see text]-algebras, the [Formula: see text]-Bernoulli action has finite Rokhlin dimension.
Propagating q-field and q-ball solution
Authors: Klinkhamer F. R. , Volovik G. E.
Published: May 2017

One possible solution of the cosmological constant problem involves a so-called q-field, which self-adjusts so as to give a vanishing gravitating vacuum energy density (cosmological constant) in equilibrium. We show that this q-field can manifest itself in other ways. Specifically, we establish a propagating mode (q-wave) in the nontrivial vacuum and find a particular soliton-type solution in flat spacetime, which we call a q-ball by analogy with the well-known Q-ball solution. Both q-waves and q-balls are expected to play a role for the equilibration of the q-field in the very early universe.
Anode-supported BaZr0.8Y0.2O3−δ membranes by tape casting and suspension spraying
Authors: Xiao Jin , Yuan Hongchun , Chen Lei , Xiong Chao , Ma Jinxiang , Zhao Yu , Chai Jimin , Du Wenhan , Zhu Xifang
Published: May 2017

Dense BaZr[Formula: see text]Y[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] (BZY) proton-conducting electrolyte membranes are successfully fabricated on NiO–BaZr[Formula: see text]Ce[Formula: see text]Y[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text](NiO–BZCY) using tape casting combined with suspension spraying technique. The NiO–BZCY anode substrates were prepared by the tape-casting method and the BZY electrolyte membranes were prepared on the NiO-BZCY anodes by suspension spraying. The thermal decomposition of the anode green tape prepared by tape casting was investigated by thermogravimetry-differential thermal analysis while the phase structure and the morphology of the anode/electrolyte bi-layers were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). No obvious reaction was found between NiO and BZCY in anode substrates and gas-tight BZY membranes were achieved after co-sintering at 1450[Formula: see text]C. With Sm[Formula: see text]Sr[Formula: see text]CoO[Formula: see text]–Ce[Formula: see text]Sm[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text](SSC–SDC) as the composite cathode, a maximum power density of 121 mW cm[Formula: see text] was obtained at 650[Formula: see text]C for the single cell with 23 [Formula: see text]m thick BZY electrolyte. Resistances of the tested cell were investigated under open circuit conditions at different operating temperatures by impedance spectroscopy.
A Bayesian network model for predicting type 2 diabetes risk based on electronic health records
Authors: Xie Jiang , Liu Yan , Zeng Xu , Zhang Wu , Mei Zhen
Published: May 2017

An extensive, in-depth study of diabetes risk factors (DBRF) is of crucial importance to prevent (or reduce) the chance of suffering from type 2 diabetes (T2D). Accumulation of electronic health records (EHRs) makes it possible to build nonlinear relationships between risk factors and diabetes. However, the current DBRF researches mainly focus on qualitative analyses, and the inconformity of physical examination items makes the risk factors likely to be lost, which drives us to study the novel machine learning approach for risk model development. In this paper, we use Bayesian networks (BNs) to analyze the relationship between physical examination information and T2D, and to quantify the link between risk factors and T2D. Furthermore, with the quantitative analyses of DBRF, we adopt EHR and propose a machine learning approach based on BNs to predict the risk of T2D. The experiments demonstrate that our approach can lead to better predictive performance than the classical risk model.
Damage Analysis of One-Dimensional Euler–Bernoulli Cracked Beam with Traveling Wave Method
Authors: Tang Ya-Qiong , Li Tuan-Jie , Yan Qiong-Yao
Published: May 2017

Based on the elastic fracture mechanics, we establish a continuous model of one-dimensional Euler–Bernoulli cracked beam using the traveling wave method, and analyze the damage characteristics of cracked beam through the changes of deflection and power flow response. First, the control equation of bending vibration of healthy beam is deduced by traveling wave method. Then, the reflection and transmission matrices of waves at force point, constraint point, crack point are derived. The analytic solutions of deflection and power flow are expressed explicitly as the function of crack location and size. The effects of crack width and depth on deflection and power flow response of cracked beam are revealed. Finally, the numerical example illustrates the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Solution of certain Pell equations
Authors: Raza Zahid , Malik Hafsa Masood
Published: May 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be any positive integers such that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is a square free positive integer of the form [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] The main focus of this paper is to find the fundamental solution of the equation [Formula: see text] with the help of the continued fraction of [Formula: see text] We also obtain all the positive solutions of the equations [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] by means of the Fibonacci and Lucas sequences.

Furthermore, in this work, we derive some algebraic relations on the Pell form [Formula: see text] including cycle, proper cycle, reduction and proper automorphism of it. We also determine the integer solutions of the Pell equation [Formula: see text] in terms of [Formula: see text] We extend all the results of the papers [3, 10, 27, 37].
The Universe, a Personal View on Exploring the Boundaries, or: The Science of the Extremes
Authors: Hooft Gerard ’t
Published: May 2017

What are the fundamental equations of motion when we consider objects that move faster, have tinier structures, higher mass densities, higher or lower temperatures than ever studied before? Here, we emphasize the importance of studying extreme conditions and situations in science so as to uncover the basic laws of nature. One of the important extremes is extreme complexity, a necessary condition for the emergence of life.
Arsenic and mercury contamination related to historical gold mining in the Sierra Nevada, California
Authors: Alpers Charles N.
Published: May 2017

Arsenic (As) is a naturally occurring constituent in low-sulphide gold-quartz vein deposits, the dominant deposit type for lode mines in the Sierra Nevada Foothills (SNFH) gold (Au) province of California. Concentrations of naturally occurring mercury (Hg) in the SNFH Au province are low, but extensive use and loss of elemental Hg during amalgamation processing of ore from lode and placer Au deposits led to widespread contamination of Hg in the Sierra Nevada foothills and downstream areas, such as the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta and San Francisco Bay. This review paper provides an overview of As and Hg contamination related to historical Au mining in the Sierra Nevada of California. It summarizes the geology, mineralogy, and geochemistry of the Au deposits, and provides information on specific areas where detailed studies have been done in association with past, ongoing, and planned remediation activities related to the environmental As and Hg contamination.
Modeling of mineralization using minimum/maximum autocorrelation factor: case study Sury Gunay gold deposit NW of Iran
Authors: Ghane Babak , Asghari Omid
Published: May 2017

The importance of modeling geological units and mineralization factor, as a key step in evaluating mineral deposits, is undeniable. Multivariate geostatistical methods are very useful tools in the case of geochemical modeling. In this study, the minimum/maximum autocorrelation factor (MAF), a multivariate geostatistical method, and the sequential indicator simulation (SIS) were used in order to model the Sury Gunay epithermal gold deposit, NW of Iran. The analyses were done using core samples obtained from drill holes. The MAF is a geospatially modified version of principal component analysis, which decorrelates factors for all lag distances. By applying the MAF on alr-transformed data, four MAF were obtained and the fourth factor represents the mineralization factor. Joint simulation of the mineralization elements was carried out by applying the sequential Gaussian simulation to the fourth factor scores. The main rock types and alterations of the deposit were also modeled using SIS and the probabilistic models of the rock types, and alterations were obtained using E-type maps resulting from 20 realizations. The results indicate that there are better relations with higher values of the mineralization factor and the existence of the volcanogenic breccia and dacite porphyry rock types. Furthermore, the simulated alterations demonstrate that the higher probability of silicification existence may have better correlation with higher concentrations of the mineralization elements.
Cross-sex transplantation alters gene expression and enhances inflammatory response in the transplanted kidneys
Authors: Wang Lei , Song Jiangping , Wang Shaohui , Buggs Jacentha , Chen Rongjun , Zhang Jie , Wang Liqing , Rong Song , Li Wenbin , Wei Jin , Liu Ruisheng
Published: May 2017

Kidney transplantation (KTX) is a life-saving procedure for patients with end-stage renal disease. Expression levels of many genes in the kidney vary between males and females, which may play an essential role in the sex differences in graft function. However, whether these differences are affected after cross-sex-KTX is unknown. In the present study, we assessed postoperative changes in genotype, function, and inflammatory responses of the grafts in same-sex- and cross-sex-KTX. Single kidney transplants were performed between same and different sex C57BL/6 mice paired into four combination groups: female donor/female recipient (F/F); male donor/male recipient (M/M); female donor/male recipient (F/M); and male donor/female recipient (M/F). The remnant native kidney was removed 4 days posttransplant. Expression levels of genes related to the contractility of the afferent arteriole and tubular sodium reabsorption were assessed. Same-sex-KTX did not significantly alter the magnitude or sex difference pattern of gene expression in male or female grafts. Cross-sex-KTX showed an attenuated sex difference in gene expressions. The measurements of endothelin 1, endothelin ETA receptor, Na+-K−-2Cl cotransporter 2 (NKCC2), and epithelial Na+ channels (ENaC) subunits exhibited decreases in M/F compared with M/M and increases in F/M compared with F/F. There were no significant differences in hemodynamics or sodium excretion in response to acute volume expansion for any sex combinations. Cross-sex-KTX stimulated more robust inflammatory responses than same-sex-KTX. IL-6 and KC mRNA levels elevated 5- to 20-fold in cross-sex-KTX compared with same-sex-KTX. In conclusion, cross-sex-KTX alters gene expression levels and induces inflammatory responses, which might play an important role in long-term graft function.
Motor recovery beginning 23 years after ischemic stroke
Authors: Sörös Peter , Teasell Robert , Hanley Daniel F. , Spence J. David
Published: May 2017

Widespread bilateral activation of both sides of the cerebrum and cerebellum are demonstrated on functional MRI after motor recovery of a completely nonfunctional left hand that began 23 yr after a severe stroke. This suggests that the generally accepted window of recovery beyond which further therapy is not indicated should be entirely reconsidered. Physiotherapy and new modalities in development might be indicated long after a stroke.
Preparation and Performance of a New-Type Alkali-Free Liquid Accelerator for Shotcrete
Authors: Sheng Yanping , Xue Bin , Li Haibin , Qiao Yunyan , Chen Huaxin , Fang Jianhong , Xu Anhua
Published: May 2017

A new type of alkali-free liquid accelerator for shotcrete was prepared. Specifically, the setting time and strength and shrinkage performance of two kinds of Portland cement with the accelerator were fully investigated. Moreover, the accelerating mechanism of alkali-free liquid accelerator and the hydration process of the shotcrete with accelerator were explored. Results show that alkali-free liquid accelerator significantly shortened the setting time of cement paste, where the initial setting time of cement paste with 8 wt% of the accelerator was about 3 min and the final setting time was about 7 min. Compressive strength at 1 day of cement mortar with the accelerator could reach 23.4 MPa, which increased by 36.2% compared to the strength of cement mortar without the accelerator, and the retention rate of 28-day compressive strength reached 110%. In addition, the accelerator still shows a good accelerating effect under low temperature conditions. However, the shrinkage rate of the concrete increased with the amount of the accelerator. 5~8% content of accelerator is recommended for shotcrete in practice. XRD and SEM test results showed that the alkali-free liquid accelerator promoted the formation of ettringite crystals due to the increase of Al3+ and SO42- concentration.
Comparative Analysis of Tongue Indices between Patients with and without a Self‐Reported Yin Deficiency: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Kim Su-Ryun , Choi Woojin , Yeo Inkwon , Nam Dong-Hyun
Published: May 2017

We investigated the hypothesis that Yin‐deficient patients have a reddened tongue with less coating. We screened 189 participants aged 20 to 49 years, complaining of headache. To classify patients in terms of Yin deficiency, we used two self‐reporting Yin‐deficiency questionnaires (Yin‐Deficiency Questionnaire and Yin‐Deficiency Scale) and diagnosis by a doctor. Based on the tests, a total of 33 subjects were assigned to a Yin‐deficient group and 33 subjects were assigned to a nondeficient control group. Tongue images were acquired using a computerized tongue diagnostic system, for evaluating tongue indices. The tongue coating percentage and tongue redness were calculated as the mean a⁎ value of both the whole tongue area (WT a⁎) and the tongue body area (TB a⁎). The tongue coating percentage of the Yin‐deficient group (34.79 ± 10.76) was lower than that of the nondeficient group (44.13 ± 14.08). The WT a⁎ value of the Yin‐deficient group (19.39 ± 1.52) was significantly higher than that of the nondeficient group (18.21 ± 2.06). However, the difference in the TB a⁎ value between the two groups was not significant. In conclusion, we verified that Yin‐deficient patients had less tongue coating and tended to have a more reddish tongue than nondeficient patients.
Robust Adaptive Neural Control of Morphing Aircraft with Prescribed Performance
Authors: Wu Zhonghua , Lu Jingchao , Shi Jingping , Liu Yang , Zhou Qing
Published: May 2017

This study proposes a low‐computational composite adaptive neural control scheme for the longitudinal dynamics of a swept‐back wing aircraft subject to parameter uncertainties. To efficiently release the constraint often existing in conventional neural designs, whose closed‐loop stability analysis always necessitates that neural networks (NNs) be confined in the active regions, a smooth switching function is presented to conquer this issue. By integrating minimal learning parameter (MLP) technique, prescribed performance control, and a kind of smooth switching strategy into back‐stepping design, a new composite switching adaptive neural prescribed performance control scheme is proposed and a new type of adaptive laws is constructed for the altitude subsystem. Compared with previous neural control scheme for flight vehicle, the remarkable feature is that the proposed controller not only achieves the prescribed performance including transient and steady property but also addresses the constraint on NN. Two comparative simulations are presented to verify the effectiveness of the proposed controller.
Necrotizing Pseudomonas aeruginosa Community-Acquired Pneumonia: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Maharaj Satish , Isache Carmen , Seegobin Karan , Chang Simone , Nelson Grant
Published: May 2017

Lung cavities are not typically associated with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). CAP due to P. aeruginosa is rare and even less commonly causes necrotizing pneumonia. We report a case of P. aeruginosa CAP that progressed to necrotizing pneumonia and was eventually fatal. Procalcitonin (PCT) has been well investigated in guiding antibiotic therapy (especially CAP) in adults. In this case, PCT at presentation and sequentially was negative. We discuss this caveat and present hypotheses as to the sensitivity and specificity of PCT and C-reactive protein (CRP) in these patients. To better characterize P. aeruginosa CAP, we undertook a review of cases indexed in PubMed from 2001 to 2016 (n=9). The data reveal that risk factors for P. aeruginosa CAP include smoking, alcohol use, obstructive lung disease, sinusitis, and hot tub use. The route of infection for P. aeruginosa CAP remains unknown. One of the most interesting findings on reviewing cases was that P. aeruginosa CAP involves the right upper lobe in the vast majority. We suggest that when physicians in the community see patients with distinctly upper lobe necrotizing or cavitary pneumonia, they should consider P. aeruginosa in their differential diagnosis. Further studies are needed to clarify route of infection, role of PCT and CRP, and optimal therapy including drug and duration.
Computing Adaptive Feature Weights with PSO to Improve Android Malware Detection
Authors: Xu Yanping , Wu Chunhua , Zheng Kangfeng , Wang Xu , Niu Xinxin , Lu Tianliang
Published: May 2017

Android malware detection is a complex and crucial issue. In this paper, we propose a malware detection model using a support vector machine (SVM) method based on feature weights that are computed by information gain (IG) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithms. The IG weights are evaluated based on the relevance between features and class labels, and the PSO weights are adaptively calculated to result in the best fitness (the performance of the SVM classification model). Moreover, to overcome the defects of basic PSO, we propose a new adaptive inertia weight method called fitness-based and chaotic adaptive inertia weight-PSO (FCAIW-PSO) that improves on basic PSO and is based on the fitness and a chaotic term. The goal is to assign suitable weights to the features to ensure the best Android malware detection performance. The results of experiments indicate that the IG weights and PSO weights both improve the performance of SVM and that the performance of the PSO weights is better than that of the IG weights.
Gene Electrotransfer of Plasmid-Encoding IL-12 Recruits the M1 Macrophages and Antigen-Presenting Cells Inducing the Eradication of Aggressive B16F10 Murine Melanoma
Authors: Lampreht Tratar Ursa , Loiacono Luisa , Cemazar Maja , Kamensek Urska , Fazio Vito Michele , Sersa Gregor , Signori Emanuela
Published: May 2017

Cancer immunotherapy is currently one of the leading approaches in cancer treatment. Gene electrotransfer of plasmids encoding interleukin 12 (IL-12) into the cells leads to the production of IL-12, which drives immune cell polarization to an antitumoral response. One of the cell types that shows great promise in targeting tumor cells under the influence of IL-12 cytokine milieu is that of macrophages. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate gene electrotransfer of antibiotic resistance-free plasmid DNA-encoding murine IL-12 (mIL-12) in mice bearing aggressive B16F10 murine melanoma. IL-12 electrotransfer resulted in the complete long-term eradication of the tumors. Serum mIL-12 and murine interferonγ(mIFNγ) were increased after IL-12 gene electrotransfer. Further on, hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining showed increased infiltration of immune cells that lasted from day 4 until day 14. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining of F4/80, MHCII, and CD11c showed higher positive staining in the IL-12 gene electrotransfer group than in the control groups. Immune cell infiltration into the tumors and the high density of MHCII- and CD11c-positive cells suggest an antitumor polarization of macrophages and the presence of antigen-presenting cells that contributes to the important antitumor effectiveness of IL-12.
A Double-Blinded Randomized Study Investigating a Possible Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Saxagliptin versus Placebo as Add-On Therapy in Patients with Both Type 2 Diabetes And Stable Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Njerve Ida Unhammer , Åkra Sissel , Weiss Thomas W. , Solheim Svein , Øvstebø Reidun , Aass Hans Christian D. , Byrkjeland Rune , Arnesen Harald , Seljeflot Ingebjørg
Published: May 2017

Background. Promising results regarding potential anti-inflammatory and antiatherosclerotic effects of gliptins have been reported. Our aim was to investigate whether saxagliptin treatment modifies expression of inflammatory markers, primarily in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and in circulating leukocytes in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD) and T2DM. Methods. Patients (n=12) were randomized to saxagliptin 5 mg daily or placebo for 3 months. Samples were taken at baseline and end of study in fasting state prior to intake of medications. PBMCs were isolated and cryopreserved at −150°C until ex vivo exposed to 1 ng/mL of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 4 hours. Gene expression was performed with custom-designed TaqMan® Arrays and relative quantification by real-time PCR (RT-qPCR). Results. HbA1c was reduced in the saxagliptin-treated group compared to that in the change with placebo (p=0.042). In unstimulated PBMCs and in circulating leukocytes, we observed a significant increase in IL-10 expression in the saxagliptin group (p=0.043, both), significantly different from that in the placebo (p=0.009 and p=0.032, resp.). No between group differences in changes were observed in any of the selected proinflammatory markers. Conclusion. In our small cohort of patients with combined T2DM and CAD, a possible anti-inflammatory effect of saxagliptin, observed in the present study by upregulation of IL-10 in leukocytes, needs to be confirmed in larger studies.
The Loading Control Strategy of the Mobile Dynamometer Vehicle Based on Neural Network PID
Authors: Yan Xianghai , Xu Liyou , Wang Yuan
Published: May 2017

To solve the problems of low loading precision, slow response speed, and poor adaptive ability of a mobile dynamometer in a tractor traction test, a PID control strategy based on a radial basis function neural network with self‐learning and adaptive ability is proposed. The mathematical model of the loading system is established, the algorithm of adaptive control is described, and the loading control method is simulated with MATLAB software. The system, which uses the NN‐PID (neural network PID) control strategy, is used to test a YTO‐MF554 tractor. Then, the proposed control strategy is validated. Results show that when the traction increases from 0 to 10 kN, the response time of the test system is 1.5 s, the average traction force in the stability range is 10.13 kN, and the maximum relative error of traction force is 2.2%. This control strategy can improve the response speed and steady‐state accuracy and enhance the adaptive ability of the mobile dynamometer vehicle loading system. This study provides a reference for designing the adaptive controller of the mobile dynamometer vehicle loading system.
Relationship between IGF-I Concentration and Metabolic Profile in Children with Growth Hormone Deficiency: The Influence of Children’s Nutritional State as well as the Ghrelin, Leptin, Adiponectin, and Resistin Serum Concentrations
Authors: Stawerska Renata , Smyczyńska Joanna , Hilczer Maciej , Lewiński Andrzej
Published: May 2017

Background. Some, however not all, children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) reveal a tendency towards metabolic disorders. Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) is the main mediator of GH anabolic effects. Objective. The aim of the study was to compare ghrelin, adiponectin, leptin, resistin, lipid, glucose, and insulin concentrations in GHD children, depending on the IGF-I bioavailability. Methods. The analysis comprised 26 children with GHD, aged 5.7–15.3 yrs. Fasting serum concentrations of IGF-I, IGFBP-3, ghrelin, leptin, adiponectin, resistin, lipids, glucose, and insulin were measured. The GHD children were divided into two subgroups: (1) with lower IGF-I/IGFBP-3 molar ratio and (2) with higher IGF-I/IGFBP-3 molar ratio. The control group consisted of 39 healthy children, aged 5.1–16.6 yrs, of normal height and body mass. Results. GHD children with lower IGF-I/IGFBP-3 molar ratio were found to have a significantly lower body mass and insulin and triglyceride concentrations, as well as significantly higher ghrelin and adiponectin concentrations than GHD children with higher IGF-I/IGFBP-3. Conclusions. A better metabolic profile characterised GHD children with low IGF-I bioavailability. This phenomenon may be the result of high adiponectin and ghrelin concentrations in those children and their influence on adipose tissue, glucose uptake, and orexigenic axis.
Physical Activity and Quality of Life in Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Levinson Joshua D. , Joseph Ethan , Ward Laura A. , Nocera Joe R. , Pardue Machelle T. , Bruce Beau B. , Yan Jiong
Published: May 2017

Purpose. Aerobic exercise has been found to be neuroprotective in animal models of retinal degeneration. This study aims to report physical activity levels in patients with RP and investigate the relationship between physical activity and vision-related quality-of-life (QOL). Materials and Methods. A retrospective study of adult patients with RP examined in 2005–2014. Physical activity levels were assessed using the Godin Exercise Questionnaire. The NEI-Visual Function Questionaire-25 (VFQ-25), SF-36 General Health survey, and Pepper Assessment Tool for Disability (PAT-D) were administered. Results. 143 patients participated. 81 (56.6%) patients were classified as “active” and 62 (43.4%) as “insufficiently active” by Godin score. VFQ-25 revealed statistically significant differences between the active and insufficiently active patients, including overall visual function (53.3 versus 45.1, p=0.010), color vision (73.8 versus 52.9, p<0.001), and peripheral vision (34.3 versus 23.8, p=0.021). The physical component of the SF-36 and the PAT-D survey also demonstrated statistically significant differences (47.2 versus 52.9, p=0.002; 24.3 versus 30.0, p=0.010). Active patients had a higher initial Goldmann visual field (GVF) score (74.8 versus 60.1 degrees, p=0.255) and final GVF score (78.7 versus 47.1 degrees, p=0.069) but did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions. In RP, increased physical activity is associated with greater self-reported visual function and QOL.
The Effects and Role of Polyvinylpyrrolidone on the Size and Phase Composition of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Prepared by a Modified Sol-Gel Method
Authors: Silva Marcela F. , de Oliveira Luiz A. S. , Ciciliati Mariani A. , Lima Michele K. , Ivashita Flávio F. , Fernandes de Oliveira Daniela M. , Hechenleitner Ana Adelina W. , Pineda Edgardo A. G.
Published: May 2017

Fe2O3 nanoparticles (as maghemite and hematite mixtures) were prepared using adapted sol-gel method from a polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) aqueous solution in various Fe3+ : PVP monomer ratios. Analysis of X-ray diffraction was obtained to evaluate the crystalline state, average crystallite size, and composition of iron oxide phases. The morphology and average nanoparticles size were evaluated by electronic transmission microscopy. Magnetic properties of iron oxide were analyzed at low and room temperatures. Optical characteristics were evaluated by UV-Vis photoacoustic spectroscopy and the Mössbauer spectrum was obtained in order to evaluate subtle changes in the nuclear environment of the iron atoms.
Rho-Kinase/ROCK as a Potential Drug Target for Vitreoretinal Diseases
Authors: Yamaguchi Muneo , Nakao Shintaro , Arima Mitsuru , Wada Iori , Kaizu Yoshihiro , Hao Feng , Yoshida Shigeo , Sonoda Koh-hei
Published: May 2017

Rho-associated kinase (Rho-kinase/ROCK) was originally identified as an effector protein of the G protein Rho. Its involvement in various diseases, particularly cancer and cardiovascular disease, has been elucidated, and ROCK inhibitors have already been applied clinically for cerebral vasospasm and glaucoma. Vitreoretinal diseases including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and proliferative vitreoretinoapthy are still a major cause of blindness. While anti-VEGF therapy has recently been widely used for vitreoretinal disorders due to its efficacy, attention has been drawn to new unmet needs. The importance of ROCK in pathological vitreoretinal conditions has also been elucidated and is attracting attention as a potential therapeutic target. ROCK is involved in angiogenesis and hyperpermeability and also in the pathogenesis of various pathologies such as inflammation and fibrosis. It has been expected that ROCK inhibitors will become new molecular target drugs for vitreoretinal diseases. This review summarizes the recent progress on the mechanisms of action of ROCK and their applications in disease treatment.
Simulation of Chloride Ingress through Surface-Coated Concrete during Migration Test Using Finite-Difference and Finite-Element Method
Authors: Yoon Seyoon
Published: May 2017

Polymer surface coatings are commonly used to enhance the corrosion resistance of concrete structures in saline environments to ionic diffusivity; this diffusivity can be determined by migration tests. This paper presents the simulation of the effects of the surface coatings on migration tests by solving the Nernst-Planck/Poisson model using both finite-difference method and finite-element method. These two numerical methods were compared in terms of their accuracy and computational speed. The simulation results indicate that the shapes of ionic profiles after migration tests depend on the effectiveness of surface coatings. This is because highly effective surface coatings can cause a high ionic concentration at the interface between coating and concrete. The simulation results were also compared to homogenized cases where a homogenized diffusion coefficient is employed. The result shows that the homogenized diffusion coefficient cannot represent the diffusivity of the surface-coated concrete.
Assessment of Breast Cancer Risk Factors Reveals Subtype Heterogeneity
Authors: Holm Johanna , Eriksson Louise , Ploner Alexander , Eriksson Mikael , Rantalainen Mattias , Li Jingmei , Hall Per , Czene Kamila
Published: May 2017

Subtype heterogeneity for breast cancer risk factors has been suspected, potentially reflecting etiologic differences and implicating risk prediction. However, reports are conflicting regarding the presence of heterogeneity for many exposures. To examine subtype heterogeneity across known breast cancer risk factors, we conducted a case–control analysis of 2,632 breast cancers and 15,945 controls in Sweden. Molecular subtype was predicted from pathology record–derived IHC markers by a classifier trained on PAM50 subtyping. Multinomial logistic regression estimated separate ORs for each subtype by the exposures parity, age at first birth, breastfeeding, menarche, hormone replacement therapy use, somatotype at age 18, benign breast disease, mammographic density, polygenic risk score, family history of breast cancer, and BRCA mutations. We found clear subtype heterogeneity for genetic factors and breastfeeding. Polygenic risk score was associated with all subtypes except for the basal-like (Pheterogeneity < 0.0001). “Never breastfeeding” was associated with increased risk of basal-like subtype [OR 4.17; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.89–9.21] compared with both nulliparity (reference) and breastfeeding. Breastfeeding was not associated with risk of HER2-overexpressing type, but protective for all other subtypes. The observed heterogeneity in risk of distinct breast cancer subtypes for germline variants supports heterogeneity in etiology and has implications for their use in risk prediction. The association between basal-like subtype and breastfeeding merits more research into potential causal mechanisms and confounders. Cancer Res; 77(13); 3708–17. ©2017 AACR.