bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hadis Wakaf Infrastruktur Berkaitan Masjid Dalam Al-Kutub Al-Sittah: Satu Analisis (Prophetic Traditions on Waqf of Mosque Infrastructure in Al-Kutub Al-Sittah: An Analysis)
Authors: Yaakob Mohd Ashrof Zaki , Suliaman Ishak , Bhari Azri , Khalid Mohammad Mahyuddin , Mat Rani Mohd Afandi , Mohamed Yusof Mohd Faiz
Published: November 2019

Provision of waqf is thabit through nas from the Quran and also the traditions of the Prophet or known as al-Hadith. Although generally speaking, the fiqh discussion of waqf is only focused on two major hadiths; the hadith related to Sayidina 'Umar in Khaybar and also the date farm of the Bayruha' property of Abu Talhah. However, if it is examined more closely, there are many more hadiths discussing waqf in various aspects in al-Kutub al-Sittah. The analysis found that there were 36 texts of hadiths related to waqf in al-Kutub al-Sittah and there was a text of hadith describing on specific waqf mosque in particular. The sources of the hadiths related to the wakaf of the mosque are from Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, and cross references are found that the hadiths are also found in al-Kutub al-Sittah other than Sahih al- Bukhari and Sahih Muslim. The debate in this article will touch on the analysis of the source and history of the hadiths related to the wakaf of the mosque and also the perspective of the discussion based on the critics performed by the scholars in the book of Syarh al-Hadis.
The Role of War Game in Educating and Training the Commanders
Authors: Almuqati Mislat Safar , Marni Nurazmallail
Published: November 2019

The war game is considered to be the most effective means of military training due to the fact that it simulates the reality since it provides a semi-real picture of the weapons and equipment used in the training. Consequently, it provides the trainee with the appropriate environment to freely deal with such weapons as well as military equipment which in turn help the trainee become acquainted with all aspects of use and significantly instill confidence in him when such equipment are actually needed in war.  More importantly, war game provides environment similar to what is going on in the actual battlefields allowing the commanders to exercise the training as if they were in a real war. Based on this perspective, the war game has emerged as an advanced training means which provides an analogy of the battle atmosphere to a great extent and gives commanders the opportunity to make decisions. It also helps in providing the commanders with a future view which enables them to plan their future and to deal with any challenges they might encounter.  In fact, the role of war play is not only limited to training, but also extends to the aspects of military education, preparation, and development. The notion of war game is not only a means for the commander to have knowledge about the war before it occurs so as to be able to realize whether the decisions taken are right or wrong, but also it has become an effective means on which the armies depend when they train and polish the commanders' capabilities as well as skills. In fact, the concept of war play is not exclusive to the military field but also it is employed by all agencies and departments that require a future vision in training or planning. This paper sheds some light on the notion of war game and its role in training and educating the commanders and staff.
Pelaksanaan Program Pembangunan Modal Insan (PMI) di institusi Pengurusan Hal Ehwal Islam (PHEI): Kajian Kes di Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM) (Implementation of Human Capital Development Program at the Institutions of Islamic Affairs Management: A Case Study at Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM))
Authors: Awang Sa’adi , Basir Siti Arni , Mohamed Hasan Al-Banna
Published: November 2019

Human capital is an important asset for the survival of organization. Poor human capital are not able to contribute effectively to the development of organization. Therefore, human capital must be developed through appropriate programs so that their potential can be harnessed to maximum level. Institutions of Islamic Affairs Management plays an important role in Malaysia. These institutions need competent human capital to ensure quality of services delivered are in accordance with customer expectations. However, human capital competency in the institutions of Islamic Affairs Management is still questionable. Literature shows that empirical studies about human capital development programs in the institutions of Islamic Affairs Management is sorely lacking. Therefore, the objective of this study is to explore the implementation of human capital development programs in the institution of JAKIM. This study employed qualitative methods using the JAKIM as case study organisation. A total of 15 informants were interviewed in this study. Data were analysed using thematic analysis which is facilitated by ATLAS ti software. The results showed there are 5 human capital development programs implemented in JAKIM that is training, education and knowledge, human resource management, quality and work experiences. The results also shows all the programs have been well implemented. The administrators either in public or private sector can use these findings as a guide to implement human capital development programs in their organisations effectively.
Issues On Waqf Land Registration Process In Malaysia And Improvement Proposals
Authors: Ghazali Noor Azimah , Sipan Ibrahim @ Atan , Raji Fauziah , Haji Mohammad Mohammad Tahir Sabit
Published: November 2019

Religious aspect of charity is connected closely with Islamic endowment (waqf plural awqaf) and becomes a key Islamic institution within the Muslim world for more than a millennium. Globally including Malaysia, waqf widely relates to land and buildings. Under Islamic Law the land or any property declared by individuals to become waqf is considered binding and valid as soon as the donor implies or expresses the intention clearly. There are 5 valid elements (rukn) of waqf declaration under Islamic Law. However, under Malaysian Land Law, waqf properties need to be registered at Land Office after a waqf declaration at State Islamic Religious Council (SIRC). The rational is to ensure land indefeasible ownership under National Land Code (NLC) 1965. However, there are few issues in the procedure existed. Therefore, this paper highlights nine issues from organisation and the donors involved in registration process of waqf land and suggesting nine improvement proposals by State Islamic Religious Council Johor. The approach adopted is ‘Content Analyses and ‘System Approach’.
Ando–Hiai-type inequalities for operator means and operator perspectives
Authors: Hiai Fumio , Seo Yuki , Wada Shuhei
Published: November 2019

We improve the existing Ando–Hiai inequalities for operator means and present new ones for operator perspectives in several ways. We also provide the operator perspective version of the Lie–Trotter formula and consider the extension problem of operator perspectives to non-invertible positive operators.
Modified f(R,T) cosmology with observational constraints in Lyra’s geometry
Authors: Maurya Dinesh Chandra
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we have investigated modified [Formula: see text] cosmological models with observational constraints in Lyra’s geometry. We have studied the models in two cases: in the first one it is taken as constant displacement vector field and in second case it is taken as time-dependent. We have established a relationship among energy parameters [Formula: see text], respectively, called as matter, anisotropy and dark energy (DE) density parameters in Bianchi type-I space-time in Lyra’s geometry. We have compared our models with observational data sets with union 2.1 compilation SNe Ia data and [Formula: see text] data sets and have found best fit values of various energy parameters for [Formula: see text]. We have found that the model with constant displacement vector field is the best fit to the study of the whole evolution of the model and the gauge function [Formula: see text] of Lyra geometry behaves like a DE candidate. Also, the various physical and kinematical parameters have been studied in this study.
Regulatory Effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on TGF-β1 and miR-130b Expression in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Nephropathy in Rats
Authors: Liu Yuetong , Yang Ye , Wang Qin , Kahaer Apaer , Zhang Jiyun , Liao Jing , Abudureyimu Mairemugu , Yahefu Reyila , Qi Jing , Zhao Lei , Zhu Jun
Published: November 2019

Objective. To investigate the role of microRNA-130b in 1,25(OH)2D3 mediated improvement of renal fibrosis via transforming growth factor-beta 1 in a rat model of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Methods. DN was induced in 30 rats by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. These rats were randomly allocated to the DN group, TGF-β1 overexpression group (in situ injection of TGF-β1 lentivirus to kidney tissues), and TGF-β1 siRNA group (in situ injection of TGF-β1 siRNA lentivirus to kidney tissues). Rats with different expression levels of TGF-β1 were administered 1,25(OH)2D3 (0.03 μg/kg/d) or peanut oil as control. DN rats were treated only with peanut oil. All rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 6 per group): TGF-β1 overexpression + oil, TGF-β1 overexpression + 1,25(OH)2D3, TGF-β1 siRNA + oil, TGF-β1 siRNA + 1,25(OH)2D3, and DN + oil groups. After 37 days, kidney samples were collected and the expression of TGF-β1 and miR-130b was determined by real-time PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and Masson staining were used to evaluate kidney morphological and fibrogenic changes. Differences were determined using ANOVA and Student’s t-test. Results. RT-PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry revealed that interference of TGF-β1 significantly decreased mRNA and protein levels of TGF-β1 in renal tissues of DN rats compared to those in renal tissues of rats overexpressing TGF-β1 (p<0.05). Histological analysis showed that upregulated TGF-β1 led to disorganized kidney structure and severe kidney fibrosis. The expression of miR-130b was significantly lowered upon lentivirus-mediated overexpression of TGF-β1 than upon downregulation of TGF-β1 (p<0.05). Treatment with 1,25(OH)2D3 led to a significant reduction of TGF-β1 at the mRNA and protein levels (both p<0.05), improvement of renal structure and fibrosis, and an increase in miR-130b expression (p<0.05). Conclusion. TGF-β1 can decrease the expression of miR-130b in kidney tissues of DN rats. Moreover, miR-130b may be involved in the protective effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on renal fibrosis via TGF-β1.
A Missense Mutation in OPA1 Causes Dominant Optic Atrophy in a Chinese Family
Authors: Mei Shaoyi , Huang Xiaosheng , Cheng Lin , Peng Shiming , Zhu Tianhui , Chen Liang , Wang Yan , Zhao Jun
Published: November 2019

Background. To investigate the genetic causes and clinical characteristics of dominant optic atrophy (DOA) in a Chinese family. Methods. A 5-generation pedigree of 35 family members including 12 individuals affected with DOA was recruited from Shenzhen Eye Hospital, China. Four affected family members and one unaffected family member were selected for whole exome sequencing. Sanger sequencing was used to confirm and screen the identified mutation in 18 members of the family. The disease-causing mutation was identified by bioinformatics analysis and confirmed by segregation analysis. The clinical characteristics of the family members were analyzed. Results. A heterozygous missense mutation (c.1313A>G, p.D438G) in optic atrophy 1 (OPA1) was identified in 10 individuals affected with DOA in this family. None of the unaffected family members had the mutation. Patients in this family had vision loss since they were children or adolescence. The visual acuity decreased progressively to hand movement, except for one patient (IV-12) who had relatively good vision of 20/30 and 20/28. The fundus typically manifested as optic disc pallor. The visual fields, optical coherence tomography, and visual evoked potential suggested variable degree of abnormality in patients. Patients who had a history of cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking had more severe clinical manifestations. Conclusions. Our results suggest that the p.D438G mutation in OPA1 causes optic atrophy in this family. The patients who carried the mutation demonstrated heterogeneous clinical manifestations in this family. This is the first report on the c.1313A>G (p.D438G) mutation of OPA1 in a Chinese family affected with DOA.
miR-200a Attenuated Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity through Upregulation of Nrf2 in Mice
Authors: Hu Xiaoping , Liu Huagang , Wang Zhiwei , Hu Zhipeng , Li Luocheng
Published: November 2019

Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) was closely involved in doxorubicin- (DOX-) induced cardiotoxicity. MicroRNA-200a (miR-200a) could target Keap1 mRNA and promote degradation of Keap1 mRNA, resulting in Nrf2 activation. However, the role of miR-200a in DOX-related cardiotoxicity remained unclear. Our study is aimed at investigating the effect of miR-200a on DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in mice. For cardiotropic expression, male mice received an injection of an adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9) system carrying miR-200a or miR-scramble. Four weeks later, mice received a single intraperitoneal injection of DOX at 15 mg/kg. In our study, we found that miR-200a mRNA was the only microRNA that was significantly decreased in DOX-treated mice and H9c2 cells. miR-200a supplementation blocked whole-body wasting and heart atrophy caused by acute DOX injection, decreased the levels of cardiac troponin I and the N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide, and improved cardiac and adult cardiomyocyte contractile function. Moreover, miR-200a reduced oxidative stress and cardiac apoptosis without affecting matrix metalloproteinase and inflammatory factors in mice with acute DOX injection. miR-200a also attenuated DOX-induced oxidative injury and cell loss in vitro. As expected, we found that miR-200a activated Nrf2 and Nrf2 deficiency abolished the protection provided by miR-200a supplementation in mice. miR-200a also provided cardiac benefits in a chronic model of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. In conclusion, miR-200a protected against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity via activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Our data suggest that miR-200a may represent a new cardioprotective strategy against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.
Therapeutic Effect and Mechanism Study of Rhodiola wallichiana var. cholaensis Injection to Acute Blood Stasis Using Metabolomics Based on UPLC-Q/TOF-MS
Authors: Ran Nan , Pang Zhiqiang , Guan Xuewa , Wang Guoqiang , Liu Jinping , Li Pingya , Zheng Jingtong , Wang Fang
Published: November 2019

In traditional Chinese medicine theory, blood stasis syndrome (BSS), characterized by blood flow retardation and blood stagnation, is one of the main pathologic mechanisms and clinical syndromes of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Rhodiola wallichiana var. cholaensis injection (RWCI) is made from dry roots and stems of RWC via the processes of decoction, alcohol precipitation, filtration, and dilution. Studies indicated the extracts of RWC could alleviate CVDs; however, the mechanism had not been illustrated. In the present study, the acute blood stasis rat model was established to investigate the pathogenesis of BSS and the therapeutic mechanism of RWCI against BSS. Hemorheological parameters (whole blood viscosity and plasma viscosity) and inflammatory factors (TNF-α and IL-6) were used to evaluate the success of the BSS rat model and RWCI efficacy. 14 and 33 differential metabolites were identified from plasma and urine samples using the metabolomics approach based on ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The results of multivariate analysis displayed that there were significant separations among model, control, and treatment groups, but the high-dose RWCI treatment group was closer to the control group. 9 perturbed metabolic pathways were related to BSS’s development and RWCI intervention. 5 metabolic pathways (arachidonic acid metabolism, linoleic acid metabolism, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, retinol metabolism, and steroid hormone biosynthesis) showed apparent correlations. These differential metabolites and perturbed metabolic pathways might provide a novel view to understand the pathogenesis of BSS and the pharmacological mechanism of RWCI.
11C-Labeled Pictilisib (GDC-0941) as a Molecular Tracer Targeting Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase (PI3K) for Breast Cancer Imaging
Authors: Han Na , Jiang Yaqun , Gai Yongkang , Liu Qingyao , Yuan Lujie , Wang Yichun , Li Mengting , Zhang Yongxue , Lan Xiaoli
Published: November 2019

Pictilisib (GDC-0941) is an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), part of a signaling cascade involved in breast cancer development. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of pictilisib noninvasively by radiolabeling it with 11C and to assess the usability of the resulting [11C]-pictilisib as a positron-emission tomography (PET) tracer to screen for pictilisib-sensitive tumors. In this study, pictilisib was radiolabeled with [11C]-methyl iodide to obtain 11C-methylated pictilisib ([11C]-pictilisib) using an automated synthesis module with a high radiolabeling yield. Considerably higher uptake ratios were observed in MCF-7 (PIK3CA mutation, pictilisib-sensitive) cells than those in MDA-MB-231 (PIK3CA wild-type, pictilisib-insensitive) cells at all evaluated time points, indicating good in vitro binding of [11C]-pictilisib. Dynamic micro-PET scans in mice and biodistribution results showed that [11C]-pictilisib was mainly excreted via the hepatobiliary tract into the intestines. MCF-7 xenografts could be clearly visualized on the static micro-PET scans, while MDA-MB-231 tumors could not. Biodistribution results of two xenograft models showed significantly higher uptake and tumor-to-muscle ratios in the MCF-7 xenografts than those in MDA-MB-231 xenografts, exhibiting high in vivo targeting specificity. In conclusion, [11C]-pictilisib was first successfully prepared, and it exhibited good potential to identify pictilisib-sensitive tumors noninvasively, which may have a great impact in the treatment of cancers with an overactive PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway. However, the high activity in hepatobiliary system and intestines needs to be addressed.
Manipulation of Intestinal Antiviral Innate Immunity and Immune Evasion Strategies of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus
Authors: Du Jian , Luo Junqiu , Yu Jie , Mao Xiangbing , Luo Yuheng , Zheng Ping , He Jun , Yu Bing , Chen Daiwen
Published: November 2019

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) infection causes watery diarrhea, dehydration, and high mortality in neonatal pigs, due to its clinical pathogenesis of the intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction. The host’s innate immune system is the first line of defence upon virus invasion of the small intestinal epithelial cells. In turn, the virus has evolved to modulate the host’s innate immunity during infection, resulting in pathogen virulence, survival, and the establishment of successful infection. In this review, we gather current knowledge concerning the interplay between PEDV and components of host innate immunity, focusing on the role of cytokines and interferons in intestinal antiviral innate immunity, and the mechanisms underlying the immune evasion strategies of PEDV invasion. Finally, we provide some perspectives on the potential prevention and treatment for PEDV infection.
Development and Validation of an Algorithm to Identify Endometrial Adenocarcinoma in US Administrative Claims Data
Authors: Esposito D. B. , Banerjee G. , Yin R. , Russo L. , Goldstein S. , Patsner B. , Lanes S.
Published: November 2019

Background. Endometrial adenocarcinoma is the most prevalent type of endometrial cancer. Diagnostic codes to identify endometrial adenocarcinoma in administrative databases, however, have not been validated. Objective. To develop and validate an algorithm for identifying the occurrence of endometrial adenocarcinoma in a health insurance claims database. Methods. To identify potential cases among women in the HealthCore Integrated Research Database (HIRD), published literature and medical consultation were used to develop an algorithm. The algorithm criteria were at least one inpatient diagnosis or at least two outpatient diagnoses of uterine cancer (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) 182.xx) between 1 January 2010 and 31 August 2014. Among women fulfilling these criteria, we obtained medical records and two clinical experts reviewed and adjudicated case status to determine a diagnosis. We then estimated the positive predictive value (PPV) of the algorithm. Results. The PPV estimate was 90.8% (95% CI 86.9–93.6), based on 330 potential cases of endometrial adenocarcinoma. Women who fulfilled the algorithm but who, after review of medical records, were found not to have endometrial adenocarcinoma, had diagnoses such as uterine sarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma of the uterus, endometrial stromal sarcoma, ovarian cancer, fallopian tube cancer, endometrial hyperplasia, leiomyosarcoma, or colon cancer. Conclusions. An algorithm comprising one inpatient or two outpatient ICD-9-CM diagnosis codes for endometrial adenocarcinoma had a high PPV. The results indicate that claims databases can be used to reliably identify cases of endometrial adenocarcinoma in studies seeking a high PPV.
Maintaining Specific Natural Frequency of Damped System despite Mass Modification
Authors: Zhu Rui , Fei Qingguo , Jiang Dong , Cao Zhifu
Published: November 2019

In aerospace engineering, structural modifications play an essential role in design of structures. In some cases, it is necessary to guarantee that a specific natural frequency of the structure remains unchanged when additional masses are attached. The methods based on the Sherman-Morrison formula are proposed in this paper, called the optimal selection method and the absolute value method, to maintain the specific natural frequency. The methods are both implemented by installing a spring on the system and can eliminate the effect of the additional mass on the specific frequency. The proposed methods were verified to be effective and accurate through numerical simulations. Results show that the optimal selection method has similar applicability as the existing real value method, and both methods are applicable only in cases of small damping. In addition, the absolute value method has extensive applicability in systems with either small or large damping.
Effects of Norspermidine on Dual‐Species Biofilms Composed of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sanguinis
Authors: Sun Yan , Pan Yihuai , Sun Yu , Li Mingyun , Huang Shengbin , Qiu Wei , Tu Huanxin , Zhang Keke
Published: November 2019

The present study aimed at investigating the influence of norspermidine on the formation of dual-species biofilms composed of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and Streptococcus sanguinis (S. sanguinis). Crystal violet assay was conducted to assess the formation of single-species biofilms of S. mutans and S. sanguinis, and the growth curve was carefully observed to monitor the growth of these two species of bacteria. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and MTT array were used to analyze the composition and metabolic activity of the dual-species biofilms, respectively. Extracellular polysaccharides (EPS)/bacteria staining, anthrone method, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging were conducted to study the synthesis of EPS by dual-species biofilms. Lactic acid assay and pH were measured to detect dual-species biofilm acid production. We found that norspermidine had different effects on S. mutans and S. sanguinis including their growth and biofilm formation. Norspermidine regulated the composition of the dual-species biofilms, decreased the ratio of S. mutans in dual-species biofilms, and reduced the metabolic activity, EPS synthesis, and acid production of dual-species biofilms. Norspermidine regulated dual-species biofilms in an ecological way, suggesting that it may be a potent reagent for controlling dental biofilms and managing dental caries.
A Modified Model for Kinetic Analysis of Petroleum Coke
Authors: Eslami Afrooz Iman , Chuan Ching Dennis Ling
Published: November 2019

In this study, a nonisothermal kinetics analysis of petcoke was performed at heating rates of 10, 15, and 20°C/min using thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). The behaviour of petcoke at different gasification stages (dewatering, volatilization, char burning, and burnout) was studied. The effect of heating rate on the activation energy of petcoke gasification was also investigated. The activation energy of petcoke was estimated using different kinetic models that include volume reaction model (VRM), shrinking core model (SCM), random pore model (RPM), Coats and Redfern model (CRM), and normal distribution function (NDF). The NDF model was modified in this study. It was found that the experimental data were best fitted with the modified normal distribution function (MNDF) and SCM. The results also showed that activation energy decreases as heating rate increases, leading to reduction in gasification completion time.
An Alternative Psychophysical Diagnostic Indicator of the Aging Eye
Authors: Rodriguez John D. , Wallstrom Garrick , Narayanan Divya , Welch Donna , Abelson Mark B.
Published: November 2019

Purpose. Impaired adaptation to changes in lighting levels as well as mesopic visual function is a common complaint in those over the age of 65. The use of photostress is a well-established method to test the adaption rate and the response of the visual cycle. In this study, we test visual function recovery to mesopic luminance stimuli following a long duration photostress in young and elderly subjects. If successful in strongly differentiating aging macular function, these methods may also be useful in the study of pathologies such as age-related macular degeneration. Methods. A group of 12 older normal subjects (mean age 75.1 ± 4.79) and a control group of 5 younger normal subjects (mean age 26.2 ± 4.19) were subjected to macular photostress using the OraLux photostress system. The OraLux system provides a diffuse light source bleaching 84% of cone photopigment while maintaining an exposure safety factor of 200 times less than the maximum safe exposure. After each photostressing session, macular recovery was tracked using a foveal, variable contrast, flickering stimulus of mean luminance in the high mesopic range. Recovery was tracked for 300 seconds. The endpoint was time to recovery to each individual’s baseline sensitivity as determined by two static sensitivity trials prior to photostress. Results. Proportional hazards analysis of recovery time yielded a statistically significant difference between the older group and the young group (HR = 0.181; p=0.0289). The estimated hazard ratio of 0.181 indicates that older subjects return to baseline at less than one-fifth the rate of younger subjects. The hazards ratio remained statistically significant after adjusting for visual acuity (HR = 0.093; p=0.0424). Conclusion. Photostress recovery of flicker sensitivity under mesopic conditions is a strong differentiator of aging macular function. This agrees with subject-reported complaints in reduced luminance conditions after exposure to bright lights such as night driving. The qualitative similarity between the aging retina and changes in early AMD suggests that flicker recovery following photostress may be useful as a surrogate endpoint in AMD clinical trials.
Fault Diagnosis of Rolling Element Bearing Using an Adaptive Multiscale Enhanced Combination Gradient Morphological Filter
Authors: Luo Yuanqing , Chen Changzheng , Kang Shuang , Zhang Pinyang
Published: November 2019

The extraction of the vibration impulse signal plays a crucial role in the fault diagnosis of rolling element bearing. However, the detection of weak fault signals generally suffers the strong background noise. To solve this problem, a new adaptive multiscale enhanced combination gradient morphological filter (MECGMF) is proposed for the fault diagnosis of rolling element bearing. In this method, according to the filtering ability of four basic morphological filter operators, an enhanced combination gradient morphological operation (ECGMF) is first proposed. This design enhances the ability of MECGMF to extract impulse signals from strong background noise. And accordingly, a new adaptive selection strategy named kurtosis fault feature ratio (KFFR) is proposed to select an optimal structuring element (SE) scale. Subsequently, the optimal SE scale is the largest measure of multiscale morphological filtering for extracting bearing fault information. In the meanwhile, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by simulation and experiment. Finally, the experimental results demonstrate that MECGMF can effectively restrain the noise interference and extract fault characteristic signals of rolling element bearing from strong background noise. Moreover, comparative tests show that the proposed method is more effective in detecting wind turbine bearing failures.
Targeting L-Lactate Metabolism to Overcome Resistance to Immune Therapy of Melanoma and Other Tumor Entities
Authors: Feichtinger René G. , Lang Roland
Published: November 2019

Although immunotherapy plays a significant role in tumor therapy, its efficacy is impaired by an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. A molecule that contributes to the protumor microenvironment is the metabolic product lactate. Lactate is produced in large amounts by cancer cells in response to either hypoxia or pseudohypoxia, and its presence in excess alters the normal functioning of immune cells. A key enzyme involved in lactate metabolism is lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Elevated baseline LDH serum levels are associated with poor outcomes of current anticancer (immune) therapies, especially in patients with melanoma. Therefore, targeting LDH and other molecules involved in lactate metabolism might improve the efficacy of immune therapies. This review summarizes current knowledge about lactate metabolism and its role in the tumor microenvironment. Based on that information, we develop a rationale for deploying drugs that target lactate metabolism in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors to overcome lactate-mediated immune escape of tumor cells.
Preoperative and Postoperative Bone Mineral Density Change and Risk Factor Analysis in Patients with a GH-Secreting Pituitary Adenoma
Authors: Qin Li’nan , Guo Xiaopeng , Gao Lu , Wang Zihao , Feng Chenzhe , Deng Kan , Lian Wei , Xing Bing
Published: November 2019

Purpose. This study analysed changes in bone mineral density (BMD) at different sites in patients with acromegaly and postoperative BMD changes and explored risk factors associated with BMD. Methods. Clinical data of 39 patients with growth hormone- (GH-) secreting pituitary adenomas and 29 patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas who were newly diagnosed in neurosurgery from January 2016 to December 2018 were retrospectively analysed, including measurements of preoperative and postoperative BMD, serum GH glucose inhibition, random GH and IGF-1, and other anterior pituitary hormones. Results. The average patient age and disease duration were 43.74 (33.41–54.07) years and 72.15 (22.82–121.48) months, respectively. Compared with patients with nonfunctioning adenomas, patients with GH-secreting pituitary adenomas had significantly higher BMDs at L1, L2, femoral neck, Ward triangle, trochanter, femoral shaft, and total hip sites (p<0.05). The BMD Z score at L1 and femoral neck sites significantly increased (p<0.05). Thirteen patients underwent re-examination of BMD 1 year postsurgery, and the BMD Z score was reduced to normal levels at L1, L2, L3, L4, L1-L4, and L2-L4 compared with preoperative levels (p<0.05). Postoperative BMD Z scores in the femoral neck and total hip were significantly increased (p<0.05). Disease duration was negatively correlated with the lumbar-spine BMD Z score. IGF-1 burden was negatively correlated with the BMD Z score at L1 and L1–L4. Multiple regression analysis showed that IGF-1 burden was a risk factor for a BMD Z score decrease at L1 and L1–L4. Conclusion. BMD in patients with GH-secreting pituitary adenomas (compared with nonfunctional adenomas) increased at L1, L2, femoral neck, Ward triangle, trochanter, femoral shaft, and total hip sites. Lumbar-spine BMD Z score recovered to normal levels postsurgically when GH and IGF-1 levels were controlled. BMD Z score was negatively correlated with disease duration and IGF-1 burden in patients with GH-secreting pituitary adenomas, and IGF-1 burden was an independent risk factor for reduced lumbar-spine BMD Z score.
The Testosterone Effect on Metabolic and Urologic Outcomes in Patients with Nonfunctioning Pituitary Macroadenomas and Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism
Authors: Vargas-Ortega Guadalupe , Pérez-Villarreal Gabriel , Ramírez de Santiago Andrés , Balcázar-Hernández Lourdes , Mendoza-Zubieta Victoria , Landa-Gutierrez Oscar , Estrada-Robles Carlos , González-Virla Baldomero
Published: November 2019

Objective. To evaluate cardiovascular risk, metabolic profile, low urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), and sexual function in patients with nonfunctional pituitary macroadenoma (NFPMA) and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with testosterone therapy (TTh). Methods. A retrospective clinical study at a tertiary care center was performed in 101 men with NFPMA, HH, and TTh; metabolic profile, cardiovascular risk, International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS), and International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF-5) scores were evaluated before initiation of TTh and at the last checkup with TTh. Results. Age was 49.3 ± 8.8 years; T before TTh was 195 ng/mL (101–259) vs. 574 (423–774) at the last checkup. The time of TTh administration was 34 months (12–72). An increase in triglyceride levels (200 (153–294) vs. 174 (134–233) mg/dL; p=0.03), dyslipidemia (40% vs. 52%; p=0.03), and MetS (25% vs. 34%; p=0.05) was corroborated. A statistical difference in the Globorisk score and cardiovascular (CV) risk stratification was not found. IIEF-5 score was 15.5 ± 6.5 vs. 17.8 ± 5.3 (p=0.11). An improvement in penetration quality (2.0 ± 1.5 vs. 2.6 ± 1.3; p=0.05), erection after penetration (1.8 ± 1.2 vs. 2.5 ± 1.6; p=0.02), completion of intercourse (1.8 ± 1.2 vs. 2.4 ± 1.3; p=0.03), and satisfaction of sexual intercourse (1.8 ± 1.3 vs. 2.5 ± 1.5; p=0.01) was evidenced. IPSS score was 6 (IQR 2–10) vs. 7 (IQR 4–12); p=0.30. A lower rate of intermittency (14% vs. 3%; p=0.02), urgency (39% vs. 16%; p=0.01), and episodes of nocturia (18% vs. 4%; p=0.02) was found. An increase of hematocrit (44.1 ± 4.4 vs. 47.3 ± 4.4%; p=0.001), hemoglobin (14.9 ± 1.4 vs. 15.9 ± 1.4 g/dL; p=0.001), and prostatic specific antigen (0.59 (0.43–1.19) vs. 0.82 (0.45–1.4) ng/mL; p=0.02) was evidenced during TTh. Conclusion. TTh in young men with NFPMA improves LUTS, sexual function, and some metabolic parameters, and it is relatively safe in the prostatic context.
Jieduquyuziyin Prescription-Treated Rat Serum Suppresses Activation of Peritoneal Macrophages in MRL/Lpr Lupus Mice by Inhibiting IRAK1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Ji Lina , Hou Xiaoli , Deng Xian , Fan Xuemin , Zhuang Aiwen , Zhang Xiufeng , Li Rongqun
Published: November 2019

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease, and Jieduquyuziyin prescription (JP) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula that has been testified to be effective for SLE treatment as an approved hospital prescription for many years in China. However, its mechanism of action in the treatment of this disease is largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine whether JP-treated rat serum can inhibit the activation of peritoneal macrophages in MRL/lpr mice by downregulating the IRAK1 signaling pathway, thereby achieving the effect of improving SLE. The JP-treated rat serum was prepared, and the peritoneal macrophages of MRL/lpr lupus mice were isolated in vitro, and the effect of JP on cell viability was detected by the CCK8 method. After LPS induction and shRNA lentiviral transfection, the effect of JP on the expression of IRAK1 in cells was detected by immunofluorescence staining. The content of TNF-α and IL-6 in the cell supernatant was determined by ELISA. The expression of IRAK1, NF-κB, TNF-α, and IL-6 mRNA was detected by RT-PCR, and the expression levels of IRAK1, p-IRAK1, TRAF6, IKBα, p-IKBα, IKK + IKK, NF-κB, and p-NF-κB proteins was detected by western blot method. We investigated the role of JP in peritoneal macrophages of the MRL/lpr mouse and identified the possible mechanisms of action. The results showed that JP could reduce the phosphorylation of IRAK1 and its downstream proteins induced by LPS and inhibit the expression of inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α and IL-6. In addition, after the transfection of cells with shRNA lentiviral, the results of JP tended to be consistent. In conclusion, JP may inhibit the activation of peritoneal macrophages in MRL/lpr mice by downregulating the IRAK1-NF-κB signaling pathway, and IRAK1 may be a potential target for JP treatment of SLE.
Hydrogen Sulfide: Emerging Role in Bladder, Kidney, and Prostate Malignancies
Authors: Akbari Masoud , Sogutdelen Emrullah , Juriasingani Smriti , Sener Alp
Published: November 2019

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is the latest member of the gasotransmitter family and known to play essential roles in cancer pathophysiology. H2S is produced endogenously and can be administered exogenously. Recent studies showed that H2S in cancers has both pro- and antitumor roles. Understanding the difference in the expression and localization of tissue-specific H2S-producing enzymes in healthy and cancer tissues allows us to develop tools for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Urological malignancies are some of the most common cancers in both men and women, and their early detection is vital since advanced cancers are recurrent, metastatic, and often resistant to treatment. This review summarizes the roles of H2S in cancer and looks at current studies investigating H2S activity and expression of H2S-producing enzymes in urinary cancers. We specifically focused on urothelial carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, and prostate cancer, as they form the majority of newly diagnosed urinary cancers. Recent studies show that besides the physiological activity of H2S in cancer cells, there are patterns between the development and prognosis of urinary cancers and the expression of H2S-producing enzymes and indirectly the H2S levels. Though controversial and not completely understood, studying the expression of H2S-producing enzymes in cancer tissue may represent an avenue for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for addressing urological malignancies.
Stationary Time Statistical Property of Ionospheric Clutter in High-Frequency Surface-Wave Radar
Authors: Shang Shang , He Kangning , Wang Zhaobin , Yang Xuguang
Published: November 2019

In HFSWR (high-frequency surface-wave radar) system, the detection performance is impacted seriously by ionospheric clutter. Frequency selection is an effective method to avoid the effect of ionospheric clutter. The key to the method is the stationarity of ionospheric clutter over a period of time. This paper mainly researches the stationary time statistical property of the ionospheric clutter. A large number of real data including ionospheric clutter in HFSWR are processed and analyzed. It shows that ionospheric clutter in HFSWR has the characteristics of approximate stationarity within a period of time.
A New Optimization Algorithm Based on Search and Rescue Operations
Authors: Shabani Amir , Asgarian Behrouz , Gharebaghi Saeed Asil , Salido Miguel A. , Giret Adriana
Published: November 2019

In this paper, a new optimization algorithm called the search and rescue optimization algorithm (SAR) is proposed for solving single‐objective continuous optimization problems. SAR is inspired by the explorations carried out by humans during search and rescue operations. The performance of SAR was evaluated on fifty‐five optimization functions including a set of classic benchmark functions and a set of modern CEC 2013 benchmark functions from the literature. The obtained results were compared with twelve optimization algorithms including well‐known optimization algorithms, recent variants of GA, DE, CMA‐ES, and PSO, and recent metaheuristic algorithms. The Wilcoxon signed‐rank test was used for some of the comparisons, and the convergence behavior of SAR was investigated. The statistical results indicated SAR is highly competitive with the compared algorithms. Also, in order to evaluate the application of SAR on real‐world optimization problems, it was applied to three engineering design problems, and the results revealed that SAR is able to find more accurate solutions with fewer function evaluations in comparison with the other existing algorithms. Thus, the proposed algorithm can be considered an efficient optimization method for real‐world optimization problems.
Performance of Low-Cost Agar fromGracilaria salicorniaon Tissue Culture ofPleurotusHK-37
Authors: Mpatani Farid Mzee , Vuai Said Ali Hamad
Published: November 2019

Currently, the demand ofPleurotusHK-37 (oyster mushroom) in Tanzania is growing rapidly due to the increasing of awareness on its nutrition, health, and economic benefits. Despite the increasing demand, the availability of strains ofPleurotusHK-37 species is still a challenge due to high cost of tissue culture technology. The high cost of importing agar seems to be among the factors for this failure. This study aimed at investigating the performance of low-cost agar from localGracilaria salicorniaon tissue culture ofPleurotusHK-37. Local extracted agars with different gel strengths ranging between 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 g/cm2were used to make PDA media. The average mycelia growth rate (mm/day) ranged between 9.87 ± 1.44 and 14.9 ± 0.85 mm/day. Low-cost agar shows quite similar performance as that of standard agar on active growth ofPleurotusHK-37 mycelia. All PDA plates appeared white and feathery and showed to grow in a circular mode (radial extension). Mycelia growth on standard agar PDA took 5 days while on extracted local agar PDA took 5 to 7 days to fully colonize the plate at 27 ± 2°C. The present study shows that the production cost can be reduced by ∼35–78% by using local agar.
Cognitive Impairment among Cardiac Arrest Survivors in the ICU: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Kim Soo Hyun , Oh Sang Hoon , Park Kyu Nam , Kim Taek Hun
Published: November 2019

Background. Recent studies have presented the effects of cardiac arrest on long-term cognitive function and quality of life. However, no study has evaluated cognitive function in the early stage after regaining consciousness. Purpose. The objectives of this study were to analyse the incidence, clinical course, and associated factors of cognitive impairment of cardiac arrest survivors in intensive care unit (ICU). Patients and methods. We administered the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) to cardiac arrest survivors who were treated with targeted temperature management (TTM) immediately after regaining consciousness. Patients whose MMSE scores indicated impaired cognitive function (MMSE < 24) were retested before ICU discharge. Results. In 92 patients, the median MMSE score was 21.0 (interquartile range (IQR), 16.0–24.0), and cognitive impairment was found in 64 patients. Fifty-three patients completed follow-up MMSEs, and the median scores were 20.0 (IQR, 13.5–23.0) for the first and 25.0 (IQR, 21.5–28.0) for the last test. Of the specific domains, recall (0.0 (IQR, 0.0–1.0) to 2.0 (IQR, 1.0–3.0)) and attention/calculation (3.0 (IQR, 1.0–4.0) to 4.0 (IQR, 2.0–5.0)) were the most affected domains until ICU discharge. The factors that were correlated with cognitive impairment on the last MMSE were older age (OR, 1.07 (95% CI, 1.01–1.14), p=0.016), increased time to return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) (OR, 1.08 (95% CI, 1.02–1.15), p=0.012), and length of hospital stay (OR, 1.07 (95% CI, 1.00–1.14), p=0.044). Conclusions. Cognitive impairments were common immediately after patients regained consciousness but recovered substantially before ICU discharge. Recall and attention/calculation still were impaired until ICU discharge, and older age, increased time to ROSC, and LOS were associated with this cognitive decline.
Thermal Diffusivity, Moisture Diffusivity, and Color Change of Codonopsis javanica with the Support of the Ultrasound for Drying
Authors: Nguyen Xuan-Quang , Le Anh-Duc , Nguyen Ngoc-Phuong , Nguyen Hay
Published: November 2019

In this study, drying kinetics, including thermal and moisture, of Codonopsis javanica with the support of ultrasonic technology in the drying process were investigated. Experimental processes were carried out at drying air temperatures of 40°C, 45°C, and 50°C with and without ultrasound at a frequency of 20 kHz and three levels of intensity: 1.3 kW/m2, 1.8 kW/m2, and 2.2 kW/m2. Based on theoretical calculations, experimental data, and the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm, the coefficient of thermal diffusion was determined in the range of 1.01–1.36 × 10−7 m2/s, and the coefficient of moisture diffusion is in the range of 3.2–6.7 × 10−10 m2/s. In addition, the color parameters (L∗, a∗, and b∗) of the drying materials were also considered. Results showed the overall color differences (∆E) of dried products change in the range of 8.0–12.9 compared with the fresh ones. In this work, the multiple boundary conditions were considered to determine the moisture and thermal diffusion coefficients; the results obtained prove that the quality of dried products in terms of color change is also improved.
Studying Cortical Plasticity in Ophthalmic and Neurological Disorders: From Stimulus-Driven to Cortical Circuitry Modeling Approaches
Authors: Carvalho Joana , Renken Remco J. , Cornelissen Frans W.
Published: November 2019

Unsolved questions in computational visual neuroscience research are whether and how neurons and their connecting cortical networks can adapt when normal vision is compromised by a neurodevelopmental disorder or damage to the visual system. This question on neuroplasticity is particularly relevant in the context of rehabilitation therapies that attempt to overcome limitations or damage, through either perceptual training or retinal and cortical implants. Studies on cortical neuroplasticity have generally made the assumption that neuronal population properties and the resulting visual field maps are stable in healthy observers. Consequently, differences in the estimates of these properties between patients and healthy observers have been taken as a straightforward indication for neuroplasticity. However, recent studies imply that the modeled neuronal properties and the cortical visual maps vary substantially within healthy participants, e.g., in response to specific stimuli or under the influence of cognitive factors such as attention. Although notable advances have been made to improve the reliability of stimulus-driven approaches, the reliance on the visual input remains a challenge for the interpretability of the obtained results. Therefore, we argue that there is an important role in the study of cortical neuroplasticity for approaches that assess intracortical signal processing and circuitry models that can link visual cortex anatomy, function, and dynamics.