bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing monolayer photoluminescence on optical micro/nanofibers for low-threshold lasing
Authors: Liao Feng , Yu Jiaxin , Gu Zhaoqi , Yang Zongyin , Hasan Tawfique , Linghu Shuangyi , Peng Jian , Fang Wei , Zhuang Songlin , Gu Min , Gu Fuxing
Published: November 2019

Photoactivating oxygen dangling bonds on tapered micro/nanofibers enhances monolayer photoluminescence quantum yields.
A skin-like two-dimensionally pixelized full-color quantum dot photodetector
Authors: Kim Jaehyun , Kwon Sung-Min , Kang Yeo Kyung , Kim Yong-Hoon , Lee Myung-Jae , Han Kwangjoon , Facchetti Antonio , Kim Myung-Gil , Park Sung Kyu
Published: November 2019

We report a skin-like full-band on-chip photodetector enabled by two-dimensionally pixelized chalcometallate ligand quantum dots.
Monolithic shape-programmable dielectric liquid crystal elastomer actuators
Authors: Davidson Zoey S. , Shahsavan Hamed , Aghakhani Amirreza , Guo Yubing , Hines Lindsey , Xia Yu , Yang Shu , Sitti Metin
Published: November 2019

Maxwell stress–activated shape-morphing liquid crystal elastomer actuators are efficient, fast, and forceful.
Helios enhances the preferential differentiation of human fetal CD4
+
naïve T cells into regulatory T cells
Authors: Ng Melissa S. F. , Roth Theodore L. , Mendoza Ventura F. , Marson Alexander , Burt Trevor D.
Published: November 2019

Helios contributes to a transcriptional and epigenetic program in human fetal naïve T cells promoting T
reg
differentiation.
Flow in AA and pA as an interplay of fluid-like and non-fluid like excitations
Authors: Kurkela Aleksi , Wiedemann Urs Achim , Wu Bin
Published: November 2019

To study the microscopic structure of quark–gluon plasma, data from hadronic collisions must be confronted with models that go beyond fluid dynamics. Here, we study a simple kinetic theory model that encompasses fluid dynamics but contains also particle-like excitations in a boost invariant setting with no symmetries in the transverse plane and with large initial momentum asymmetries. We determine the relative weight of fluid dynamical and particle like excitations as a function of system size and energy density by comparing kinetic transport to results from the 0th, 1st and 2nd order gradient expansion of viscous fluid dynamics. We then confront this kinetic theory with data on azimuthal flow coefficients over a wide centrality range in PbPb collisions at the LHC, in AuAu collisions at RHIC, and in pPb collisions at the LHC. Evidence is presented that non-hydrodynamic excitations make the dominant contribution to collective flow signals in pPb collisions at the LHC and contribute significantly to flow in peripheral nucleus–nucleus collisions, while fluid-like excitations dominate collectivity in central nucleus–nucleus collisions at collider energies.
Erratum to: The minimal axion minimal linear $$\sigma $$ model
Authors: Merlo L. , Pobbe F. , Rigolin S.
Published: November 2019

In this Erratum we clarify that in contrast to the statements made in the article the bounds on the axion coupling to two W’s and to two Z’s obtained from mono-W and mono-Z searches at the LHC are the following:
Acute Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Secondary to Amyloidosis
Authors: Hakyemez Ömer Serdar , Arslanoğlu Fatih , Birinci Murat , Çaçan Mehmet Akif , Kara Adnan
Published: November 2019

Introduction. ACTS secondary to amyloidosis is a very rare situation in the literature, and here, we present a unique case of ACTS secondary to amyloidosis. Case Report. A 61-year-old male patient was admitted to our hospital with complaints of numbness in the lateral half of his 1, 2, 3, and 4 fingers of his right hand. These complaints started acutely, and the patient did not have a history of trauma. His clinical examination was suitable for acute carpal tunnel syndrome. Discussion. Carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as acute carpal tunnel syndrome, may occur based on different causes. ACTS is very rare, especially when it is not caused by a trauma. Here, we presented a unique case of ACTS based on amyloidosis. Conclusion. It should be kept in mind when ACTS may occur in patients with the diagnosis of amyloidosis.
Field Experimental Study on the Broken Rock Zone of Surrounding Rock and the Rock Borehole Shear Tests of the Large Deformation Tunnel
Authors: Han Guansheng , Meng Bo , Jing Hongwen , Wu Jiangyu
Published: November 2019

A large deformation tunnel in LIXIANG railway, named Zhongyi tunnel is located in Southwest of China, was taken for the engineering background. The field experiments of the broken rock zone and the borehole shear test were conducted. The results show that the range of the broken rock zone of the test sections is 4.20∼4.45 meters. The cohesive force and the internal friction angle of the test sections are 221.4∼224 kPa and 14.25∼15.14°, respectively. The test results are in good agreement with the status of the surrounding rock. The surrounding rock is mainly composed of shale, which is badly broken, and the integrity and the stability are poor. In this study, the reasons for the deformation and instability of the tunnel are analyzed combined with the in situ tests and the site condition, and the suggestions for the tunnel support are put forward. This study is of great significance to ensure the safety of the constructors and can improve the service years of the tunnel. In addition, it can provide reference for the same type of the tunnel construction.
Experimental Study on Liquid Flow and Heat Transfer in Rough Microchannels
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Zhao Taocheng , Wu Suchen , Yao Feng
Published: November 2019

Although roughness is negligible for laminar flow through tubes in classic fluid mechanics, the surface roughness may play an important role in microscale fluid flow due to the large ratio of surface area to volume. To further verify the influence of rough surfaces on microscale liquid flow and heat transfer, a performance test system of heat transfer and liquid flow was designed and built, and a series of experimental examinations are conducted, in which the microchannel material is stainless steel and the working medium is methanol. The results indicate that the surface roughness plays a significant role in the process of laminar flow and heat transfer in microchannels. In microchannels with roughness characteristics, the Poiseuille number of liquid laminar flow relies not only on the cross section shape of the rough microchannels but also on the Reynolds number of liquid flow. The Poiseuille number of liquid laminar flow in rough microchannels increases with increasing Reynolds number. In addition, the Nusselt number of liquid laminar heat transfer is related not only to the cross section shape of a rough microchannel but also to the Reynolds number of liquid flow, and the Nusselt number increases with increasing Reynolds number.
Improvement in Impaired Social Cognition but Not Seizures by Everolimus in a Child with Tuberous Sclerosis-Associated Autism through Increased Serum Antioxidant Proteins and Oxidant/Antioxidant Status
Authors: Yui Kunio , Imataka George , Sasaki Hitomi , Kawasaki Yohei , Okanshi Tohru , Shiroki Ryoichi , Yoshihara Shigemi
Published: November 2019

We investigated the effect of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor everolimus on tuberous sclerosis complex- (TSC-) associated autistic symptoms and focal seizures with impaired awareness in a female child with TSC. We further evaluated the relationship between improved autistic symptoms and seizures and increased the serum levels of the antioxidant proteins, ceruloplasmin (Cp) and transferrin (Tf), and oxidant-antioxidant status indicated by the oxidant marker oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and the antioxidant marker total antioxidant power (TAP). Everolimus treatment improved impaired social cognition and autistic behaviors; however, seizure and epileptic activity persisted. Serum Cp and Tf levels gradually increased in response to improved autistic symptoms. Serum TAP levels gradually decreased from baseline to the lowest value at 16 weeks and then increased at 24 weeks, showing a trend toward decreased total score of the Aberrant Behavior Checklist. This study revealed that everolimus treatment improved impaired social cognition with increased serum levels of the copper mediator (Cp) and iron mediator (Tf) via homeostatic control of mTOR activity accompanied by overlap of the oxidant-antioxidant system. Everolimus had no effect on TSC-related epileptiform discharges, and thus, the autistic symptoms and epileptic activity may be two independent end results of a common central nervous system disorder including mTOR hyperactivity. This trial is registered with JMAS-IIA00258.
Association between Serum Uric Acid and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease according to Different Menstrual Status Groups
Authors: Chen Yanru , Huang Qiuping , Ai Ping , Liu Huamin , Chen Xueyu , Xu Xizhu , Ding Guoyong , Li Yuejin , Feng Xia , Wang Xiaohui , Ji Long , Li Dong , Zhou Yong
Published: November 2019

Objective. The present study aimed to explore the association between SUA and NAFLD in women with different menstrual statuses. Methods. A total of 6043 women were selected from the Jidong and Kailuan communities for inclusion in the present study. The SUA levels of participants were divided into quartiles. NAFLD was determined by abdominal ultrasonography. Data from laboratory tests and clinical examination were collected, and basic information was obtained from standardized questionnaires. The menstrual status was stratified into menstrual period, menopause transition period, and postmenopause. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine the relationship between menstrual status, SUA, and NAFLD. Results. The levels of SUA in subjects with NAFLD in the menstrual period, menopause transition period, and postmenopause were 268.0 ± 71.1, 265.6 ± 67.8, and 286.7 ± 75.8 (mmol/L), respectively, and were higher than those in subjects without NAFLD. The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for NAFLD among participants in the menopause transition period and postmenopausal period were 1.10 (0.89–1.37) and 1.28 (1.04–1.58), respectively, compared with the menstrual period women. Compared to the lowest quartile of SUA, the adjusted ORs with 95% CI of the highest quartile for NAFLD were 2.24 (1.69–2.99) for females in the menstrual period, 1.92 (1.10–3.37) for females in the menopause transition period, and 1.47 (1.06–2.03) for females in postmenopause. Conclusions. Menstrual status was significantly correlated with NAFLD. High levels of SUA were associated with NAFLD in females during the three menstrual periods.
Rock Inhibitor Y-27632 Enables Feeder-Free, Unlimited Expansion of Sus scrofa domesticus Swine Airway Stem Cells to Facilitate Respiratory Research
Authors: Dale Tina P. , Borg D’anastasi Emily , Haris Mohammed , Forsyth Nicholas R.
Published: November 2019

Current limitations in the efficacy of treatments for chronic respiratory disorders position them as prospective regenerative medicine therapeutic targets. A substantial barrier to these ambitions is that research requires large numbers of cells whose acquisition is hindered by the limited availability of human tissue samples leading to an overreliance on physiologically dissimilar rodents. The development of cell culture strategies for airway cells from large mammals will more effectively support the transition from basic research to clinical therapy. Using readily available porcine lungs, we isolated conducting airway tissue and subsequently a large number of porcine airway epithelial cells (pAECs) using a digestion and mechanical scraping technique. Cells were cultured in a variety of culture media formulations, both foetal bovine serum-containing and serum-free media, in air (21%) and physiological (2%) oxygen tension and in the presence and absence of Rho kinase inhibitor Y-27362 (RI). Cell number at isolation and subsequent population doublings were determined; cells were characterised during culture and following differentiation by immunofluorescence, histology, and IL-8 ELISA. Cells were positive for epithelial markers (pan-cytokeratin and E-cadherin) and negative for fibroblastic markers (vimentin and smooth muscle actin). Supplementation of cultures with Y-27632 allowed for unlimited expansion whilst sustaining an epithelial phenotype. Early passage pAECs readily produced differentiated air-liquid interface (ALI) cultures with a capacity for mucociliary differentiation retained after substantial expansion, strongly modulated by the culture condition applied. Primary pAECs will be a useful tool to further respiratory-oriented research whilst RI-expanded pAECs are a promising tool, particularly with further optimisation of culture conditions.
A Case of Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) in a Patient with a History of Cocaine Use and Tuberculosis
Authors: Ayoubi Noura , Jalali Samuel , Kapadia Nikesh
Published: November 2019

Aspergillosis refers to a spectrum of disorders that can occur due to colonization with theAspergillusfungus. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is an airway hypersensitivity reaction to the fungus that is almost exclusively seen in patients with cystic fibrosis or asthma. Here, we present a case of ABPA in a patient with a history of chronic cocaine use and tuberculosis and no history of asthma or cystic fibrosis. The patient had presented with progressively worsening dyspnea for three months as well as a 20-pound weight loss. Diagnosis was made with an elevated IgE againstAspergillusand chest CT findings, which included bronchiectasis and tree-in-bud nodular opacities. The patient was treated with IV methylprednisolone followed by a 4-day course of oral prednisone, with significant improvement. It is our hope to make healthcare providers aware of the potential presence of ABPA in chronic cocaine users and patients with tuberculosis, both of which are not traditionally associated with this condition.
The Protective Impact of Black Chokeberry Fruit Extract (Aronia melanocarpaL.) on the Oxidoreductive System of the Parotid Gland of Rats Exposed to Cadmium
Authors: Dąbrowska Zofia , Dąbrowska Ewa , Onopiuk Barbara , Onopiuk Paweł , Orywal Karolina , Mroczko Barbara , Pietruska Małgorzata
Published: November 2019

Cadmium (Cd) is a strongly toxic heavy metal with prooxidative properties. Since the exposure of the general population to this metal is predicted to increase, effective methods are being sought to prevent its negative actions. One of them involves the use of the antioxidant potential of polyphenol compounds contained in black chokeberry fruit extract and their capability of complex formation with Cd2+. The study objective was to investigate whether the administration of A. melanocarpa fruit extract rich in polyphenol compounds during low and moderate exposures to cadmium can protect the parotid gland against oxidative damage. The study was conducted using the experimental model on female Wistar rats which were given 0.1% aqueous extract ofAronia melanocarpafruit (AE) and/or cadmium at a concentration of 1 (Cd1) or 5 (Cd5) mg Cd/kg feed for 3 and 10 months, and on control animals. The exposure to Cd attenuated the enzymatic antioxidant barrier (catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx)) and increased the concentration of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), protein carbonyl (PC) groups, and oxidized lipids (LPO) in parotid gland. These disorders led to a reduction in the total antioxidative status (TAS), an increase in the total oxidative state (TOS), and development of stress. The administration of AE at both levels of exposure to cadmium substantially improved the enzymatic antioxidant barrier (CAT, SOD, GPx) and prevented oxidative damage to cellular macromolecules (PC, LPO) and the increase in the level of H2O2, MPO, TOS, and stress indicator (OSI = TOS/TAS) in the parotid gland. Concluding, it should be stated that the consumption of aronia products may prevent oxidative/antioxidative imbalance induced by Cd and oxidative stress development in the parotid gland, thus protecting the gland from damage.
Characterization of a Halotolerant Fungus from a Marine Sponge
Authors: Anteneh Yitayal S. , Brown Melissa H. , Franco Christopher M. M.
Published: November 2019

Introduction. Marine sponges have established symbiotic interactions with a large number of microorganisms including fungi. Most of the studies so far have focussed on the characterization of sponge-associated bacteria and archaea with only a few reports on sponge-associated fungi. During the isolation and characterization of bacteria from marine sponges of South Australia, we observed multiple types of fungi. One isolate in particular was selected for further investigation due to its unusually large size and being chromogenic. Here, we report on the investigations on the physical, morphological, chemical, and genotypic properties of this yeast-like fungus.Methods and Materials. Sponge samples were collected from South Australian marine environments, and microbes were isolated using different isolation media under various incubation conditions. Microbial isolates were identified on the basis of morphology, staining characteristics, and their 16S rRNA or ITS/28S rRNA gene sequences.Results. Twelve types of yeast and fungal isolates were detected together with other bacteria and one of these fungi measured up to 35 μm in diameter with a unique chromogen compared to other fungi. Depending on the medium type, this unique fungal isolate appeared as yeast-like fungi with different morphological forms. The isolate can ferment and assimilate nearly all of the tested carbohydrates. Furthermore, it tolerated a high concentration of salt (up to 25%) and a range of pH and temperature. ITS and 28S rRNA gene sequencing revealed a sequence similarity of 93% and 98%, respectively, with the closest genera ofEupenidiella,Hortaea,andStenella.Conclusions. On the basis of its peculiar morphology, size, and genetic data, this yeast-like fungus possibly constitutes a new genus and the nameMagnuscella marinae, gen nov., sp. nov., is proposed. This study is the first of its kind for the complete characterization of a yeast-like fungus from marine sponges. This novel isolate developed a symbiotic interaction with living hosts, which was not observed with other reported closest genera (they exist in a saprophytic relationship). The observed unique size and morphology may favour this new isolate to establish symbiotic interactions with living hosts.
Sensitivity Study on Optimizing Thickness Distribution for a Membrane Reflector
Authors: Huang He , Guan Fu-ling
Published: November 2019

Inflatable membrane reflectors are widely used in space and terrestrial deployable antennas. The mechanical properties of the inflated membrane reflector, however, are often a limiting factor in the level of the surface accuracy that can be achieved. In this study, membrane structural analysis is combined with sizing optimization to tailor the thickness of the membrane to improve surface accuracy of an axisymmetric parabolic inflated membrane reflector. Two reflector surface accuracy evaluation methods are employed in the optimizer and researched about their effect on the sensitivity analysis. Gradient-based optimization is employed together with a simplified sensitivity analysis, and the resulting algorithm is demonstrated on a membrane reflector case study. A linear thickness filter is used to avoid checkerboard patterns, and optimized solutions are computationally shown to achieve a feasible level of surface accuracy.
Comparison of the Repeatability of Macular Vascular Density Measurements Using Four Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Systems
Authors: Yang Jingyuan , Yuan Mingzhen , Wang Erqian , Chen Youxin
Published: November 2019

The aim of this study was to compare the repeatability of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) measurements of macular vessel density using four OCT-A systems, including Heidelberg Spectralis HRA, Optovue RTVue XR, Zeiss Cirrus HD-OCT 5000, and Topcon DRI OCT Triton. A cross-sectional design was used for this study. The vascular density and vascular length density of the superficial and deep retinal capillary plexuses were imaged with OCT-A using 3 mm and 6 mm scan patterns and were calculated using ImageJ. Comparisons of intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were conducted. We found that the OCT-A systems had various levels of repeatability. Zeiss had better repeatability for vessel density than the other systems (overall ICC = 0.936). Optovue had better repeatability for vessel length density when the 6 mm scan pattern was used (ICC = 0.680 and 0.700 for retinal superficial and deep capillary plexus, respectively). We concluded that repeatability varied when different scan patterns of various OCT-A systems were used for imaging the superficial retinal and deep capillary plexuses. Results should be seen as valid only for a given method. The repeatability of various OCT-A systems should be considered in clinical practice and in clinical trials that use OCT-A metrics as outcome measures.
Grasping Torque Optimization for a Dexterous Robotic Hand Using the Linearization of Constraints
Authors: Jia Peng , Wu Lei , Wang Gang , Geng Wei Na , Yun Feihong , Zhang Ning
Published: November 2019

A new algorithm is proposed for the optimization of grasping torques. Previous work revealed that the optimization of the contact force can be simplified as a linear programming problem by replacing the nonlinear friction cone with a polyhedral cone. On this basis, further simplification and linearization is completed for various grasp contact constraints of the grasping system, and an optimization model is established with the minimum sum‐of‐squares of joint torques as an objective function. A timely and effective algorithm based on key constraint sets is then established. This methodology optimizes the joint torque directly and facilitates the control of the dexterous hand. A numerical example and experimental results show that the optimization algorithm has high precision and good real‐time performance. The joint torque output obtained using the proposed algorithm was 27.6% lower than the result of the previous algorithm. The optimization algorithm can thus be used for optimal grasping control of a dexterous hand.
Chaos in Duopoly Games via Furstenberg Family Couple
Authors: Zhao Yu , Li Risong
Published: November 2019

Assume that H1 and H2 are two given closed subintervals of ℝ and that f2 : H1⟶H2 and f1 : H2⟶H1 are continuous maps. Let ϒ(h1, h2) = (f1(h2), f2(h1)) be a Cournot map over the space H1 × H2. In this paper, we study ‐chaos (resp. strong ‐chaos) of such a Cournot map. We will show that the following are true: (1) ϒ is ‐chaotic (resp. strong ‐chaotic) if and only if is ‐chaotic (resp. strong ‐chaotic) if and only if is ‐chaotic (resp. strong ‐chaotic). (2) ϒ is ‐chaotic (resp. strong ‐chaotic) if and only if is ‐chaotic (resp. strong ‐chaotic). (3) f1∘f2 is ‐chaotic (resp. strong ‐chaotic) if and only if so is f2∘f1. MR(2000) Subject Classification: Primary 37D45, 54H20, and 37B40 and Secondary 26A18 and 28D20.
Neopterin and CXCL-13 in Diagnosis and Follow-Up of Trypanosoma brucei gambiense Sleeping Sickness: Lessons from the Field in Angola
Authors: Bonnet Julien , Vignoles Philippe , Tiberti Natalia , Gedeão Vatunga , Hainard Alexandre , Turck Natacha , Josenando Theophile , Ndung’u Joseph M , Sanchez Jean-Charles , Courtioux Bertrand , Bisser Sylvie
Published: November 2019

Human African Trypanosomiasis may become manageable in the next decade with fexinidazole. However, currently stage diagnosis remains difficult to implement in the field and requires a lumbar puncture. Our study of an Angolan cohort of T. b. gambiense-infected patients used other staging criteria than those recommended by the WHO. We compared WHO criteria (cell count and parasite identification in the CSF) with two biomarkers (neopterin and CXCL-13) which have proven potential to diagnose disease stage or relapse. Biological, clinical, and neurological data were analysed from a cohort of 83 patients. A neopterin concentration below 15.5 nmol/L in the CSF denoted patients with stage 1 disease, and a concentration above 60.31 nmol/L characterized patients with advanced stage 2 (trypanosomes in CSF and/or cytorachia higher than 20 cells) disease. CXCL-13 levels below 91.208 pg/mL denoted patients with stage 1 disease, and levels of CXCL-13 above 395.45 pg/mL denoted patients with advanced stage 2 disease. Values between these cut-offs may represent patients with intermediate stage disease. Our work supports the existence of an intermediate stage in HAT, and CXCL-13 and neopterin levels may help to characterize it.
Spatiotemporal Analysis of Influenza Morbidity and Its Association with Climatic and Housing Conditions in Ecuador
Authors: Lobato-Cordero Andrea , Quentin Emmanuelle , Lobato-Cordero Gina
Published: November 2019

The external environment directly influences human health. However, what happens inside? This work deals with the effect that the interior thermal variables have on the propagation of respiratory diseases and focused on the relation of the temperature and relative humidity inside social housing in the 1040 parishes of Ecuador and the transmission of influenza. On the one hand, historical weather-related variables were used to simulate and estimate the interior conditions, and thresholds on temperature and humidity were determined. On the other hand, the health-related variable was determined by analyzing the statistics corresponding to the influenza and viral pneumonia in 2009 since that year was critical for these diseases; the data were divided by month for each parish. Finally, the correlation of these variables determines the relative importance of the interior conditions on the respiratory health of its inhabitants. The preliminary results indicate that the places with the lowest temperatures and relative humidity could favor the virus transmission. Also, the analysis indicated that respiratory diseases increase in August and October. In this way, it is clear that social housing projects in Ecuador require a study which guarantees not only energy efficiency and sustainability related issues but also the well-being of their inhabitants.
The Short Tandem Repeat of the DMT1 Gene as a Molecular Marker of Elite Long-Distance Runners
Authors: Wuyun Gerile , Hu Yang , He Zihong , Li Yanchun , Yan Xu
Published: November 2019

The DMT1 gene encodes divalent metal transporter 1, a membrane iron transport protein. Divalent metal transporter 1 influences cellular iron availability, which might further affect aerobic exercise capacity. Short tandem repeat (STR) polymorphisms have been used as genetic markers in the literature, yet the STR polymorphisms of the DMT1 gene have not been well studied. In this current study, we explored the polymorphisms of the DMT1 gene in a group of elite long-distance runners and controls, by using the PCR-RFLP (Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism) and Gene scan technology. We found that the genotype frequency of the homozygous 258 bp STR polymorphism of the DMT1 gene (258 bp/258 bp) was significantly higher in the athlete group than in the controls (χ2=14.01, p=0.006) so does the allele frequency of the 258 bp STR polymorphism (χ2=12.867, p=0.008). These data suggested that the STR polymorphism of the DMT1 gene might be correlated with aerobic exercise capacity and the 258 bp homozygous (25 bp/258 bp) could be used as a molecular marker for the talent identification of elite long-distance runners.
Corrosion Resistance of DLC Film-Coated SUS316L Steel Prepared by Ion Beam Enhanced Deposition
Authors: Han Bei B. , Ju Dong Y. , Chai Mao R. , Zhao Hui J. , Sato Susumu
Published: November 2019

In order to improve the conductivity and anticorrosive resistance of bipolar plates in fuel cells, the characterizations and corrosion behaviors of the DLC-coated SUS316L steel deposited with different gas ratios CH4/H2 and deposition times were investigated and evaluated. The chemical bonding structure and composition of the DLC coatings were confirmed by Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The micromorphology and surface roughness of the DLC were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The element compositions of cross section were determined by electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). The interfacial contact resistance (ICR) was measured. Furthermore, the DLC-coated SUS316L steel was corroded by potentiostatic polarizations in a 0.5 M H2SO4 solution at 0.8 V, 90°C for 168 h, and the corrosion behaviors were investigated in the solution using electrochemical techniques. In addition, the metal ions in sulfuric acid corrosion solution were detected by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy. The results indicate that the DLC coatings deposited at a lower gas ratio CH4/H2 of 1 : 1 could result in a decreasing ID/IG ratio of 1.03, low Ra roughness of 3.77 nm, low ICR of 12.9 mΩ cm2, and low metal ion concentration of 16.60 ppm in the corrosion solution. The significant improvement in the anticorrosion resistance of the DLC film was mainly due to the increased sp3 element and formation of the passive film. As a result, the DLC coating deposited on the SUS316L steel at CH4/H2 = 1 : 1 has better anticorrosion properties. However, the DLC film-coated SUS316L steel still cannot meet the corrosive resistance of the bipolar plate.
Online Monitoring of Flexural Damage Index of a Cable‐Stayed Bridge
Authors: Kim Byeong Hwa
Published: November 2019

This work introduces a recent application of the online nondestructive damage assessment system into a cable‐stayed bridge. A set of ambient modal parameters are automatically extracted every 20 minutes using real‐time signal data collected from a total of 26 accelerometers attached on the deck plate of the bridge. Then, a set of modal flexibilities are reconstructed by the combination of the extracted modal parameters with the approximated modal mass of the girder. Next, the curvature of the modal flexibility is approximated by a central difference formula. Finally, the set of flexural damage index equations is constructed by comparing the modal curvature of the damaged state to that of the undamaged state. Solving the overdetermined flexural damage index equations, the desired damage index is finally quantified. The resulting index clearly indicates the location and severity of the potential structural damage on the girder. Based on the overall performance of the implemented health monitoring system, the bridge operator’s damage index control criteria are set to ±20% of the undamaged state.
Comparison of Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Microcurrent Nerve Stimulation (MENS) in the Management of Masticatory Muscle Pain: A Comparative Study
Authors: Saranya B. , Ahmed Junaid , Shenoy Nandita , Ongole Ravikiran , Sujir Nanditha , Natarajan Srikant
Published: November 2019

Introduction. Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are a heterogeneous group of pathologies affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the jaw muscles, or both. Epidemiological studies of TMD reveal a prevalence of 82% in the general population with 48% of them presenting with clinical features of muscle tenderness and difficulty in mouth opening. TMD are considered to be the most common orofacial pain conditions of nondental origin. Methods. The patients with TMD were randomly divided into two groups, A and B, based on their VAS scale. Group A consists of two subgroups 1 and 2 each consisting of 15 patients. Group B consists of two subgroups 3 and 4 consisting of 15 patients. Patients in Group A were given TENS for twenty minutes, and the frequency is adjusted as follows: (i) subgroup 1: TENS frequency at a range of 0–5 (VAS measuring 1–5) and (ii) subgroup 2: TENS frequency at a range of 5 and above (VAS measuring 6–10). Patients in Group B were given MENS for twenty minutes, and the frequency adjusted as follows: (i) subgroup 3: MENS frequency at range of 0–5 (VAS measuring 1–5) and (ii) subgroup 4: MENS frequency at a range of 5 and above (VAS measuring 6–10). Each patient was recalled for five consecutive days for the treatment, and the same intensity and frequency were maintained throughout the treatment period. Results. The improvement in VAS is seen to be highly significant statistically in MENS subgroup 4 (moderate-to-severe pain). Subgroups 1 and 3 had improvement in VAS which was comparable in both TENS and MENS groups. Conclusion. In the present study, it was found that TENS and MENS are equally effective in improving the functional mouth opening. MENS showed better and immediate effect in relief of pain. Microcurrent also has the advantage of being subthreshold, and hence the side effects such as tingling sensation and paresthesia seen to occur in some patients following TENS are absent. TENS and MENS can be considered as the first line of treatment in patients with acute and chronic masticatory muscle pain and also as an effective treatment option in cases of functional mouth opening.
A Proposal for Routing Protocol for FANET: A Fuzzy System Approach with QoE/QoS Guarantee
Authors: Souza Jorge , Jailton José , Carvalho Tássio , Araújo Jasmine , Francês Renato
Published: November 2019

The flying ad hoc network (FANET) has emerged as an alternative access technology for regions that have no fixed infrastructure or are hard to reach. This new type of network is composed of devices called unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that communicate with each other, but there is no specific routing protocol to FANET applications that allows efficient communication between these devices. This paper proposes a FANET adaptive routing protocol based on the fuzzy system. The validation of the FANET adaptive protocol was performed through simulation using Network Simulator version 2 (NS-2) and, it was assessed by quality of service (QoS) and quality of experience (QoE) metrics.
Experimental Study on the Seismic Performance of a Partition Damped Wall‐Filled Frame Structure
Authors: Zhai Shuainan , Zou Zuyin , Zhu Zhanyuan , Zhang Zixing , Liang Wei , Cheng Xuanhao , Chang Shuzhen
Published: November 2019

In the past, earthquakes have caused significant damage to traditional masonry filler wall frame structures. To solve this problem, a new design scheme, the partition damping filler wall, is proposed in this paper to reduce the interaction between the filler wall and the frame structure. Low cyclic loading tests are carried out on the traditional and the new masonry filler wall frames. Besides, one full‐scale‐angled span layer frame without a filler wall is produced for comparison analysis. The mechanical performances of the different frames are studied, including the characteristics of the deformation failure modes, hysteretic curves, skeleton curves, rigidity degeneration, energy dissipation capacity, and the lateral displacement of the frame columns. The research results show that the partition damping filler wall can significantly decrease the diagonal bracing effect of the filler wall on the steel frame. Meanwhile, the setting of the low‐strength mortar between the filler wall and steel frame and the arrangement of the damping layer can improve the stress distribution and delay the crack development of the wall. Furthermore, the stiffness degradation rate of the partition damping filler wall is obviously slower than that of the traditional masonry filler wall frame structure. In this paper, the partition damped wall‐filled frame structure shows outstanding ductility and deformation capacity.
Innovation in Oncology Drug Development
Authors: Huber Matthew , Huber Brian
Published: November 2019

Significant progress has been made in our understanding of the molecular lesions responsible for tumor cells to exhibit uncontrolled growth while circumventing normal mechanisms of apoptosis and their ability to migrate and invade normal tissues while evading recognition and destruction by the immune system. This understanding has enabled the development of therapies specifically targeted to these lesions coupled to innovative treatment regimens to most effectively use these new targeted therapies with precision in selected subpopulations of patients. Innovation at the scientific and clinical levels has been appropriately embraced and supported at the FDA, resulting in regulatory innovation to facilitate and adapt to the Precision Medicine environment.
Особливості вищої нервової діяльності у молодих осіб із різним станом тканин пародонта
Authors: Vadzyuk S. N. , Boliuk Yu. V. , Luchynsky M. A.
Published: November 2019

Резюме. Питання впливу індивідуальних психофізіологічних характеристик людини на стан тканин пародонта залишається відкритим дотепер. Зокрема, мало вивчено зв’язки між особливостями вищої нервової діяльності та розвитком пародонтопатології в осіб молодого віку.

Мета дослідження – вивчити індивідуальні особливості сенсомоторного реагування при виконанні завдань різного ступеня складності та основні властивості нервових процесів у молодих осіб із різним станом тканин пародонта.

Матеріали і методи. До груп дослідження увійшли 109 студентів І та ІІ курсів (18–23 роки) Тернопільського національного медичного університету імені І. Я. Горбачевського. До основної групи відібрали 61 особу із наявністю запальних захворювань пародонта, а до контрольної – 48 осіб без даної патології. Оцінку особливостей вищої нервової діяльності проводили за допомогою експрес-методів М. В. Макаренка з використанням приладу та комп’ютерної системи «Діагност-1М», розробленої М. В. Макаренком у співавторстві з В. С. Лизогубом. Роботу виконували у два етапи: вивчали індивідуальні відмінності сенсомоторного реагування при вирішенні завдань різного ступеня складності та досліджували основні властивості нервових процесів (функціональної рухливості та сили).

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. Виявлено достовірно нижчі значення латентних періодів простих зорово-моторних реакцій в осіб із запальними захворюваннями пародонта порівняно з конт­рольною групою. ((262,128±73,496) мс проти (308,527±101,443) мс, p=0,0067). Також у обстежених основної групи спостерігались вірогідно нижчі показники латентних періодів складної зорово-моторної реакції вибору двох із трьох сигналів, ніж у пародонтологічно здорових студентів ((418,876±60,973) мс та (449,709±65,962) мс відповідно, p=0,0139).

Висновки. Студенти із запальними ураженнями пародонта мають вищий рівень збудливості центральної нервової системи.
Біомаркери в діагностиці хвороб пародонта
Authors: Potapchuk A. M. , Onipko Ye. L. , Sabov M. Yu. , Almashi V. M. , Yurzhenko A. V. , Stecique M. O.
Published: November 2019

Хронічний перебіг пародонтиту та гінгівіту вражає до 80 % дорослого населення, стаючи одним із найпоширеніших серед хвороб людства. Захворювання ініціюється накопиченням бактерій вздовж ясенного краю і в просторі між ясенними тканинами та зубами. Відсутність клініки гострого болю при захворюваннях пародонта є однією з основних причин низького рівня звернень пацієнтів за стоматологічною допомогою. Діагностику захворювань пародонта, як правило, проводить лікар-стоматолог. Вона включає візуальний огляд тканин ясен та ряд інших протокольних процедур, у тому числі додоткових методів діагностики – клінічну оцінку рентенограми. Водночас, звичайні клінічні та рентгенографічні методи діагностики пародонта здатні лише до ретроспективного діагнозу, вони не можуть виявити або передбачити активність пародонтиту. Тому в останні роки активно досліджують потенційні біомаркери для діагностування хвороб тканин пародонта. Джерелом біомаркерів перш за все є ясенна рідина та слина, як такі, що безпосередньо контактують з ураженими тканинами. Враховуючи сказане, доцільно проаналізувати літературні дані щодо біомаркерів ясенної рідини та слини, які використовують для діагностики хвороб пародонта та можливості розробити прості у застосуванні тест-методи для ранньої діагностики. Мета дослідження – проаналізувати літературні дані щодо оцінки перспективи застосування біомаркерів у стоматологічній практиці, зокрема в діагностиці патології тканин парадонта разом із періімплантною патологією. Матеріали і методи. У дослідженні застосовано бібліосематичний та аналітичний методи. Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. У статті проаналізовано та опрацьовано джерела науково-медичної інформації, що стосуються застосування біомаркерів у діагностиці хвороб пародонта. Висновки. Незважаючи на те, що в діагностиці рогової рідини наявна значна кількість потенційних біомаркерів, проведені на сьогодні дослідження виявилися недостатніми щодо надання клінічно достовірної та корисної інформації для практиків з точки зору більш точної діагностики та планування лікування.
Changes of basic hematological parameters in patients with generalized periodontitis depending on the blood group
Authors: Bandrivsky Yu. L.
Published: November 2019

Summary. General clinical blood test is widely used as one of the most important methods of examination in most diseases. The cellular composition of the blood of a healthy person is fairly constant, so various changes occurring in diseases may have important diagnostic value.

The aim of the study – to analyze changes in the main hematological parameters in patients with generalized periodontitis associated with blood group.

Materials and Methods. The studies were conducted in the clinic of Ternopil State Medical University and Ternopil Regional Blood Transfusion Station. 855 males aged 20–55 years were examined, who were divided into 2 groups: the main group consisted of 570 patients with generalized periodontitis of I – III severity. Complete blood count was determined using an automatic hematology analyzer “Sysmex KH - 21”. The morphological study of blood cells was performed using a Zeiss light microscope using a unified method. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate was determined using a Panchenkov unified micromethod.

Results and Discussion. It was found that in patients with generalized periodontitis, a significant decrease in blood was determined: the number of red blood cells (by 17.53 %) and their volume (by 13.40 %), p <0.01. At the same time, hemoglobin decreased by 25.59 %, hematocrit – by 32.18 % against an increase in ESR by 2.7 times, p <0.01, relative to the corresponding data in the comparison group without periodontal pathology. At the same time, it was found that in patients with generalized periodontitis the number of leukocytes increased (by 52.87 %), neutrophils (by 25.47 %), p <0.01, stab (by 39.48%), segmented (by 18.32 %) leukocytes, p<0.05, relative to the corresponding parameters in the comparison group. At the same time, in patients with generalized periodontitis, the leukocyte index of intoxication was 2.9 times higher than in the examined group of comparison. It should be noted that in patients with generalized periodontitis, depending on the group membership of the blood, the dynamics of the values of the parameters studied was similar to the average, differed depending on the group membership, between the digital tannins.

Conclusions. Our studies allowed us to obtain a block of new data revealing the biological variability of the cellular and molecular composition of blood, to identify features associated with blood group in patients with generalized periodontitis.
Сучасні погляди на застосування в стоматології аутологічної, збагаченої тромбоцитами плазми
Authors: Lysokon Yu. Yu.
Published: November 2019

Резюме. Відомо, що використання власної крові для лікування різних захворювань почалося в стародавні часи з моменту зародження медицини. На даний момент застосування збагаченої тромбоцитами плазми (ЗТП) є одним з успішних напрямків тканинної інженерії і клітинної терапії у медицині. В еволюції термінології буває безліч різних варіантів назв збагаченої тромбоцитами плазми як кінцевого продукту. В клінічній практиці вважають, що стимулювальний ефект її можливий при концентрації тромбоцитів у ній не менше 1000 000/мкл. При ушкодженні тканин тромбоцити відіграють провідну роль у загоєнні й регенерації тканин завдяки вивільненню факторів росту. На основі відомостей у фаховій літературі показано високий потенціал терапії збагаченою тромбоцитами плазмою для регенерації кісткової тканини. Досі не виконали належних клінічних досліджень щодо ефективності терапії збагаченою тромбоцитами плазмою, які відповідали б усім сучасним критеріям. Терапія збагаченою тромбоцитами плазмою є перспективною галуззю в медицині та потребує наступних досліджень як новий ефективний і безпечний метод у лікарські практиці.

Мета дослідження – проаналізувати наукову літературу щодо ефективності застосування аутологічної плазми, збагаченої тромбоцитами, для оптимізації лікування стоматологічних захворювань.

Матеріали і методи. У дослідженні застосовано бібліосемантичний та аналітичний методи дослідження.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. Під час виконання дослідження було проведено огляд та аналіз останніх даних вітчизняної та зарубіжної науково-медичних літератур щодо сучасних аспектів застосування аутологічної, збагаченої тромбоцитами плазми, при лікуванні стоматологічних захворювань, огляд основних методик для її виготовлення, переваги та недоліки її застосування.

Висновки. На основі проведеного аналізу доступної літератури ми зробили висновок про збереження значної актуальності удосконалення підходів щодо лікування основних стоматологічних захворювань збагаченою тромбоцитами плазмою. Тому питання сучасного застосування в стоматології аутологічної, збагаченої тромбоцитами плазми, залишаються актуальним і потребує подальшого вивчення.
Активність гуморальної ланки адаптивної імунної системи у хворих на хронічний генералізований пародонтит і цукровий діабет 2 типу
Authors: Balitska O. Yu. , Bondarenko Yu. I. , Habor H. H.
Published: November 2019

Резюме. Системні зміни при цукровому діабеті можуть спричиняти локальні патологічні процеси, у тому числі з боку природженої імунної системи та адаптивної гуморальної імунної відповіді, які причетні до розвитку пародонтиту. Тому на даному етапі дослідження виникла необхідність більш глибшого вивчити механізми розвитку і перебігу хронічного генералізованого пародонтиту на тлі цукрового діабету. Мета дослідження − з’ясувати характер реакції гуморальної ланки адаптивного імунітету в пацієнтів із хронічним генералізованим пародонтитом, цукровим діабетом 2 типу та при їх поєднанні. Матеріали і методи. Проведено обстеження 20 практично здорових осіб (контрольна група), 36 хворих із клінічно встановленим діагнозом цукрового діабету 2 типу (ЦД), 32 пацієнтів із підтвердженим діагнозом хронічного генералізованого пародонтиту (ХГП) і 32 хворих з поєднаним ЦД і ХГП (четверта група). Вміст основних класів імуноглобулінів IgА, IgG і IgM встановлювали за G. Manchini, рівень циркулюючих імунних комплексів (ЦІК) − за методом В. Гашкової у модифікації Ю. Гриневича. Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. Рівень IgA й IgG у дослідних групах був вірогідно вищим стосовно даних контрольної групи. Рівень IgМ у другій групі був статистично значимо нижчий у 1,2 раза, а в третій і четвертій групах він був вірогідно вищий відповідно в 1,7 і 1,2 раза. Про те що ЦД 2 типу ускладнює перебіг пародонтиту свідчить і концентрація імунних комплексів. При цьому найнижчий рівень ЦІК виявлено в групі хворих із ХГП, а найвищий − при поєднанні патологій. Висновки. При хронічному генералізованому пародонтиті на тлі цукрового діабету 2 типу суттєвих змін зазнає гуморальна ланка адаптивної імунної системи, свідченням чого є підвищення в сироватці крові концентрації імуноглобулінів класів А, М, G та циркулюючих імунних комплексів.