bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of IL-17 and IL-23 in Human Keratinocytes by the A3 Adenosine Receptor Agonist Piclidenoson
Authors: Cohen Shira , Barer Faina , Itzhak Inbal , Silverman Michael H. , Fishman Pnina
Published: May 2018

Interleukin-17 and interleukin-23 play major roles in the inflammatory process in psoriasis. The Gi protein-associated A3 adenosine receptor (A3AR) is known to be overexpressed in inflammatory cells and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with autoimmune inflammatory conditions. Piclidenoson, a selective agonist at the A3AR, induces robust anti-inflammatory effect in psoriasis patients. In this study, we aimed to explore A3AR expression levels in psoriasis patients and its role in mediating the anti-inflammatory effect of piclidenoson in human keratinocyte cells. A3AR expression levels were evaluated in skin tissue and PBMCs derived from psoriasis patients and healthy subjects. Proliferation assay and the expression of signaling proteins were used to evaluate piclidenoson effect on human keratinocytes (HaCat). High A3AR expression levels were found in a skin biopsy and in PBMCs from psoriasis patients in comparison to healthy subjects. Piclidenoson inhibited the proliferation of HaCat cells through deregulation of the NF-κB signaling pathway, leading to a decrease in interleukin-17 and interleukin-23 expression levels. This effect was counteracted by the specific antagonist MRS 1523. A3AR overexpression in skin and PBMCs of psoriasis patients may be used as a target to inhibit pathological cell proliferation and the production of interleukin-17 and interleukin-23.
Reconfigurable Magneto‐Electric Dipole Antennas for Base Stations in Modern Wireless Communication Systems
Authors: Ge Lei , Yang Xujun , Dong Zheng , Zhang Dengguo , Zeng Xierong
Published: May 2018

Magneto‐electric (ME) dipole antennas, with the function of changing the antenna characteristics, such as frequency, polarization, or radiation patterns, are reviewed in this paper. The reconfigurability is achieved by electrically altering the states of diodes or varactors to change the surface currents distributions or reflector size of the antenna. The purpose of the designs is to obtain agile antenna characteristics together with good directive radiation performances, such as low cross‐polarization level, high front‐to‐back ratio, and stable gain. By reconfiguring the antenna capability to support more than one wireless frequency standard, switchable polarizations, or cover tunable areas, the reconfigurable ME dipole antennas are able to switch functionality as the mission changes. Therefore, it can help increase the communication efficiency and reduce the construction cost. This shows very attractive features in base station antennas of modern wireless communication applications.
Ayurvedic Medicine for the Treatment of Dementia: Mechanistic Aspects
Authors: Farooqui Akhlaq A. , Farooqui Tahira , Madan Anil , Ong Jolin Hwee-Jing , Ong Wei-Yi
Published: May 2018

Ayurvedic medicine is a personalized system of traditional medicine native to India and the Indian subcontinent. It is based on a holistic view of treatment which promotes and supports equilibrium in different aspects of human life: the body, mind, and soul. Popular Ayurvedic medicinal plants and formulations that are used to slow down brain aging and enhance memory include Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis, Evolvulus alsinoides, and other species), gotu kola (Centella asiatica), and guggulu (Commiphora mukul and related species) and a formulation known as Brāhmī Ghṛita, containing Brahmi, Vacā (Acorus calamus), Kuṣṭha (Saussurea lappa), Shankhpushpi, and Purāṇa Ghṛita (old clarified butter/old ghee). The rationale for the utilization of Ayurvedic medicinal plants has depended mostly on traditional usage, with little scientific data on signal transduction processes, efficacy, and safety. However, in recent years, pharmacological and toxicological studies have begun to be published and receive attention from scientists for verification of their claimed pharmacological and therapeutic effects. The purpose of this review is to outline the molecular mechanisms, signal transduction processes, and sites of action of some Ayurvedic medicinal plants. It is hoped that this description can be further explored with modern scientific methods, to reveal new therapeutic leads and jump‐start more studies on the use of Ayurvedic medicine for prevention and treatment of dementia.
Effects of Panax ginseng on Obesity in Animal Models: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Park Hye-Sung , Cho Jae-Heung , Kim Koh-Woon , Chung Won-Seok , Song Mi-Yeon
Published: May 2018

Objective. To determine the antiobesity effects of Panax ginseng in animals. Methods. We conducted a systematic search for all controlled trials (up to March 2017) that assessed the antiobesity effects of P. ginseng in animal obesity models in the PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane library, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. The primary outcome was final body weight measured at the longest follow‐up time after administration of the intervention. The secondary outcome was the lipid profile. We assessed methodological quality using the SYRCLE risk of bias tool, and RevMan 5.3 was used to perform a meta‐analysis. Finally, a subgroup analysis of parameters including intervention duration, animal models, and type of ginseng was performed. Result. We identified 16 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Data from the meta‐analysis indicated that the intervention group had a significantly lower body weight than the control group (SMD: −1.50, 95% CI: −1.90 to −1.11, χ2: 78.14, P < 0.0001, I2 = 58%). Final body weight was lower in an animal obesity model induced by high‐fat diet than in genetic models. Also the intervention group had a significantly higher serum HDL level and lower serum LDL, TG, and TC level than the control group. Conclusion. Our meta‐analysis indicated that oral administration of P. ginseng significantly inhibits weight gain and improves serum lipid profiles in animal obesity models. However, causes of obesity and type of ginseng may affect treatment effects.
Preparation of Keratin-Glycine Metal Complexes and Their Scavenging Activity for Superoxide Anion Radicals
Authors: Wang Jianfeng , Li Xiaoxiao , He Yufeng , Song Pengfei , Wang Rong-Min
Published: May 2018

To address the problem of limited application of natural SOD, the development of SOD mimic enzymes is of great importance for bioantioxidation. Herein, we report on a new type of biopolymer antioxidant with excellent scavenging activity for O2•-, keratin-glycine metal complexes (FK-GlyM, M = Zn, Cu, Mn, Ni). They are prepared by feather keratin firstly combined with glycine and then metal ions. Using FT-IR, TG, CD, and SEM, the performance of the obtained complexes (FK-GlyM) for scavenging O2•- is analysed and investigated. Importantly, the scavenging activity of FK-GlyCu is excellent in all FK-GlyM, and FK-GlyCu60 has the most excellent anti-O2•- activity in all FK-GlyCux, of which EC50 and degree of simulation were, respectively, up to 4.5×10-3±0.0012 μmol/L and 911.1% compared with nature Cu, Zn-SOD. Finally, its mechanism was also discussed. In summary, this method about the simulation strategies will provide a novel idea for exploiting new-type biocompatible and highly reactive antioxidants.
The Effect of Mulligan Mobilization Technique in Older Adults with Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled, Double-Blind Study
Authors: Buyukturan Oznur , Buyukturan Buket , Sas Senem , Karartı Caner , Ceylan İsmail
Published: May 2018

Background. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of Mulligan mobilization technique (MMT) on pain, range of motion (ROM), functional level, kinesiophobia, depression, and quality of life (QoL) in older adults with neck pain (NP).Methods. Forty-two older adults with NP were included in the study, and they were randomly divided into two groups: traditional physiotherapy (TP) group and traditional physiotherapy-Mulligan mobilization (TPMM) group. Treatment program was scheduled for 10 sessions. Participants were assessed in terms of pain, ROM, functional level, kinesiophobia, depression, and QoL both pre- and posttreatment.Results. Pain, ROM, functional level, kinesiophobia, depression, and QoL improved in both groups following treatment (p<0.05). When comparing effects of these two treatment programs, it was observed that the TPMM group had a better outcome (p<0.05) in terms of ROM, kinesiophobia, depression, and QoL.Conclusion. In older adults with NP, MMT has been found to have significant effects on pain, ROM, functional level, kinesiophobia, depression, and QoL as long as it is performed by a specialist. “This trial is registered withNCT03507907”.
Synthesis and Characterization of Polycaprolactone-Based Polyurethanes for the Fabrication of Elastic Guided Bone Regeneration Membrane
Authors: Lee Shyh-Yuan , Wu Sheng-Chien , Chen Hsuan , Tsai Lo-Lin , Tzeng Jy-Jiunn , Lin Chih-Hsin , Lin Yuan-Min
Published: May 2018

The aim of this research is to synthesize polycaprolactone-based polyurethanes (PCL-based PUs) that can be further used for the fabrication of guided bone regeneration (GBR) membranes with higher tensile strength and elongation at break than collagen and PTFE membranes. The PCL-based PUs were prepared by the polymerization of polycaprolactone (PCL) diol with 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) at different ratios using either polyethylene glycol (PEG) or ethylenediamine (EDA) as chain extenders. The chemical, mechanical, and thermal properties of the synthesized polymers were determined using NMR, FTIR, GPC, DSC, and tensile tester. The PCL and polyurethanes were fabricated as nanofiber membranes by electrospinning, and their mechanical properties and SEM morphology were also investigated. In vitro tests, including WST-1 assay, SEM of cells, and phalloidin cytoskeleton staining, were also performed. It was shown that electrospun membranes made of PCL and PCL-HDI-PEG (2 : 3 : 1) possessed tensile strength of 19.84 MPa and 11.72 MPa and elongation at break of 627% and 362%, respectively. These numbers are equivalent or higher than most of the commercially available collagen and PTFE membrane. As a result, these membranes may have potential for future GBR applications.
Fabrication and Characterization of Carbon-Based Nanofluids through the Water Vortex Trap Method
Authors: Cheng Ching-Min , Yu Shang-Pang , Teng Tun-Ping
Published: May 2018

This study designed an efficient one-step method for synthesizing carbon-based nanofluids (CBNFs). The method employs the vortex trap method (VTM) and an oxygen-acetylene flame, serving as a carbon source, in a manufacturing system of the VTM (MSVTM). The flow rate ratio of O2 and C2H2 was adjusted to form suitable combustion conditions for the reduced flame. Four flow rate ratios of O2 and C2H2 were used: 1.5 : 2.5 (V1), 1.0 : 2.5 (V2), 0.5 : 2.5 (V3), and 0 : 2.5 (V4). The morphology, structure, particle size, stability, and basic physicochemical characteristics of the obtained carbon-based nanomaterials (CBNMs) and CBNFs were investigated using transmission electron microscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectrometry, ultraviolet–visible–near-infrared spectrophotometry, and a particle size-zeta potential analyzer. The static positioning method was utilized to evaluate the stability of the CBNFs with added EP dispersants. The evaluation results revealed the morphologies, compositions, and concentrations of the CBNFs obtained using various process parameters, and the relation between processing time and production rate was determined. Among the CBNMs synthesized, those obtained using the V4-0 flow rate ratio had the highest stability when no EP dispersant was added. Moreover, the maximum enhancement ratios of the viscosity and thermal conductivity were also obtained for V4-0: 4.65% and 1.29%, respectively. Different types and concentrations of dispersants should be considered in future research to enhance the stability of CBNFs for further application.
Sacral Myeloid Sarcoma Manifesting as Radiculopathy in a Pediatric Patient: An Unusual Form of Myeloid Leukemia Relapse
Authors: Rodrigues Joana Ruivo , Brito Manuel João , Pais Rui Pedro Faria , Carvalho Sílvia
Published: May 2018

Myeloid sarcoma (MS), granulocytic sarcoma or chloroma, is defined as a localized extramedullary mass of blasts of granulocytic lineage with or without maturation, occurring outside the bone marrow. MS can be diagnosed concurrently with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). The authors report a case of sacral MS occurring as a relapse of myeloid leukemia in a 5-year-old girl who was taken to the emergency department with radiculopathy symptoms.
Reliable Ant Colony Routing Algorithm for Dual‐Channel Mobile Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Li YongQiang , Wang Zhong , Wang QingWen , Fan QingGang , Chen BaiSong
Published: May 2018

For the problem of poor link reliability caused by high‐speed dynamic changes and congestion owing to low network bandwidth in ad hoc networks, an ant colony routing algorithm, based on reliable path under dual‐channel condition (DSAR), is proposed. First, dual‐channel communication mode is used to improve network bandwidth, and a hierarchical network model is proposed to optimize the dual‐layer network. Thus, we reduce network congestion and communication delay. Second, a comprehensive reliable path selection strategy is designed, and the reliable path is selected ahead of time to reduce the probability of routing restart. Finally, the ant colony algorithm is used to improve the adaptability of the routing algorithm to changes of network topology. Simulation results show that DSAR improves the reliability of routing, packet delivery, and throughput.
Splenic Trauma during Colonoscopy: The Role of Intra-Abdominal Adhesions
Authors: Chime Chukwunonso , Ishak Charbel , Kumar Kishore , Kella Venkata , Chilimuri Sridhar
Published: May 2018

Splenic rupture following colonoscopy is rare, first reported in 1974, with incidence of 1–21/100,000. It is critical to anticipate splenic trauma during colonoscopy as one of the causes of abdominal pain after colonoscopy especially when located in the left upper quadrant or left shoulder. Postoperative adhesions is a predisposing factor for splenic injury, and management is either operative or nonoperative, based on hemodynamic stability and/or extravasation which can be seen on contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen. We present a case of a splenic rupture after colonoscopy in a patient with splenocolic adhesions, requiring splenectomy as definite treatment.
γδT Cells Exacerbate Podocyte Injury via the CD28/B7-1-Phosphor-SRC Kinase Pathway
Authors: Chen Wanbing , Wu You , Zhang Gaofu , Wang Mo , Yang Haiping , Li Qiu
Published: May 2018

Primary nephrotic syndrome (PNS) is a devastating pediatric disorder. However, its mechanism remains unclear. Previous studies detected B7-1 in podocytes; meanwhile, γδT cells play pivotal roles in immune diseases. Therefore, this study aimed to assess whether and how γδT cells impact podocytes via the CD28/B7-1 pathway. WT and TCRδ−/− mice were assessed. LPS was used to induce nephropathy. Total γδT and CD28+γδT cells were quantitated in mouse spleen and kidney samples. B7-1 and phosphor-SRC levels in the kidney were detected as well. In vitro, γδT cells from the mouse spleen were cocultured with mouse podocytes, and apoptosis rate and phosphor-SRC expression in podocytes were assessed. Compared with control mice, WT mice with LPS nephropathy showed increased amounts of γδT cells in the kidney. Kidney injury was alleviated in TCRδ−/− mice. Meanwhile, B7-1 and phosphor-SRC levels were increased in the kidney from WT mice with LPS nephropathy. CD28+γδT cells were decreased, indicating CD28 may play a role in LPS nephropathy. Immunofluorescence colocalization analysis revealed a tight association of γδT cells with B7-1 in the kidney. High B7-1 expression was detected in podocytes treated with LPS. Podocytes cocultured with γδT cells showed higher phosphor-SRC and apoptosis rate than other cell groups. Furthermore, CD28/B7-1 blockage with CTLA4-Ig in vitro relieved podocyte injury. γδT cells exacerbate podocyte injury via CD28/B7-1 signaling, with downstream involvement of phosphor-SRC. The CD28/B7-1 blocker CTLA4-Ig prevented progressive podocyte injury, providing a potential therapeutic tool for PNS.
Bilateral Lower Extremity Paralysis in a Caucasian Male Presenting to the Emergency Department
Authors: Bao Yicheng K. , Ganesan Vishwanath C. , Rapp Richard , Bao Shunzhong S.
Published: May 2018

Reported is a case of a 39-year-old Caucasian man who presented to the emergency department with sudden onset bilateral lower extremity paralysis after consuming a large amount of carbohydrates and alcohol. A CT, MRI, and lumbar puncture were performed with negative results; lab results showed hyperthyroidism and hypokalemia. The patient was diagnosed with thyrotoxic periodic paralysis. In a patient presenting with sudden onset paralysis and hypokalemia, the emergency physician should include thyrotoxic periodic paralysis in the differential diagnosis and focus on treating and working up the hypokalemia instead of the paralysis.
Sensing of Vascular Permeability in Inflamed Vessel of Live Animal
Authors: Park Sang A , Jeong Soi , Choe Young Ho , Hyun Young-Min
Published: May 2018

Increase in vascular permeability is a conclusive response in the progress of inflammation. Under controlled conditions, leukocytes are known to migrate across the vascular barriers to the sites of inflammation without severe vascular rupture. However, when inflammatory state becomes excessive, the leakage of blood components may occur and can be lethal. Basically, vascular permeability can be analyzed based on the intensity of blood outflow. To evaluate the amount and rate of leakage in live mice, we performed cremaster muscle exteriorization to visualize blood flow and neutrophil migration. Using two-photon intravital microscopy of the exteriorized cremaster muscle venules, we found that vascular barrier function is transiently and locally disrupted in the early stage of inflammatory condition induced by N-formylmethionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP). Measurement of the concentration of intravenously (i.v.) injected Texas Red dextran inside and outside the vessels resulted in clear visualization of real-time increases in transient and local vascular permeability increase in real-time manner. We successfully demonstrated repeated leakage from a target site on a blood vessel in association with increasing severity of inflammation. Therefore, compared to other methods, two-photon intravital microscopy more accurately visualizes and quantifies vascular permeability even in a small part of blood vessels in live animals in real time.
Revisiting of Channel Access Mechanisms in Mobile Wireless Networks through Exploiting Physical Layer Technologies
Authors: Yao Junmei , Xu Jun , Che Yue Ling , Wu Kaishun , Lou Wei
Published: May 2018

The wireless local area networks (WLANs) have been widely deployed with the rapid development of mobile devices and have further been brought into new applications with infrastructure mobility due to the growth of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). However, the WLANs still face persistent challenge on increasing the network throughput to meet the customer’s requirement and fight against the node mobility. Interference is a well‐known issue that would degrade the network performance due to the broadcast characteristics of the wireless signals. Moreover, with infrastructure mobility, the interference becomes the key obstacle in pursuing the channel capacity. Legacy interference management mechanism through the channel access control in the MAC layer design of the 802.11 standard has some well‐known drawbacks, such as exposed and hidden terminal problems, inefficient rate adaptation, and retransmission schemes, making the efficient interference management an everlasting research topic over the years. Recently, interference management through exploiting physical layer mechanisms has attracted much research interest and has been proven to be a promising way to improve the network throughput, especially under the infrastructure mobility scenarios which provides more indicators for node dynamics. In this paper, we introduce a series of representative physical layer techniques and analyze how they are exploited for interference management to improve the network performance. We also provide some discussions about the research challenges and give potential future research topics in this area.
Spatial and Time Domain Feature of ERP Speller System Extracted via Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Yoon Jaehong , Lee Jungnyun , Whang Mincheol
Published: May 2018

Feature of event-related potential (ERP) has not been completely understood and illiteracy problem remains unsolved. To this end, P300 peak has been used as the feature of ERP in most brain–computer interface applications, but subjects who do not show such peak are common. Recent development of convolutional neural network provides a way to analyze spatial and temporal features of ERP. Here, we train the convolutional neural network with 2 convolutional layers whose feature maps represented spatial and temporal features of event-related potential. We have found that nonilliterate subjects’ ERP show high correlation between occipital lobe and parietal lobe, whereas illiterate subjects only show correlation between neural activities from frontal lobe and central lobe. The nonilliterates showed peaks in P300, P500, and P700, whereas illiterates mostly showed peaks in around P700. P700 was strong in both subjects. We found that P700 peak may be the key feature of ERP as it appears in both illiterate and nonilliterate subjects.
Energy Efficiency Analysis of Antenna Selection Techniques in Massive MIMO-OFDM System with Hardware Impairments
Authors: Singal Anuj , Kedia Deepak
Published: May 2018

In massive multiple-input multiple-output (M-MIMO) systems, a large number of antennas increase system complexity as well as the cost of hardware. In this paper, we propose an M-MIMO-OFDM model using per-subcarrier antenna selection and bulk antenna selection schemes to mitigate these problems. Also, we derive a new uplink and downlink energy efficiency (EE) equation for the M-MIMO-OFDM system by taking into consideration the antenna selection schemes, power scaling factor (g=0.25,  0.5), and a range of hardware impairments {κBS, κUEϵ (0, 0.052, 0.12)}. In addition, we investigate a trend of EE by varying various parameters like number of base station antennas (BSAs), SNR, level of hardware impairments, total circuit power consumption, power optimization, antenna selection schemes, and power scaling factor in the proposed M-MIMO-OFDM model. The simulation results thus obtained show that the EE increases with increase in the value of SNR. Also, it increases abruptly up to 100 number of BSA. However, the increase in the EE is not significant in the range of 125 to 400 number of BSA. Further, the bulk antenna selection technique has comparatively more EE than the per-subcarrier antenna selection. Moreover, EE gaps between antenna selection schemes decrease with increase in the value of hardware impairments and power scaling factor. However, as the hardware degradation effect increases, the EE of the bulk antenna selection scheme suffers more degradation as compared to the Per-subcarrier antenna selection scheme. It has also been observed that EE performance is inversely proportional to the total circuit power consumption (λ+γ) and it increases with the power optimization.
Ganoderma lucidum and Auricularia polytricha Mushrooms Protect against Carbofuran‐Induced Toxicity in Rats
Authors: Hossen Md. Sakib , Billah Prince Md. Maruf , Tanvir E. M. , Chowdhury M. Alamgir Zaman , Rahman Md. Abdur , Alam Fahmida , Paul Sudip , Saha Moumoni , Ali Md. Yousuf , Bhoumik Nikhil Chandra , Karim Nurul , Gan Siew Hua , Khalil Md. Ibrahim
Published: May 2018

The current study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effects of two types of mushrooms, Ganoderma lucidum (GL) and Auricularia polytricha (AP), against carbofuran‐ (CF) induced toxicity in rats. Male Wistar rats (n = 42) were divided into six equal groups. The rats in the negative control group received oral administration of CF at 1 mg/kg with the normal diet for 28 days. The treatment groups received oral administration of ethanolic extract of GL or AP at 100 mg/kg followed by coadministration of CF at 1 mg/kg with the normal diet for the same experimental period, respectively. In the CF alone treated group, there were significant decreases in the erythrocytic and thrombocytic indices but increases in the concentrations of the total leukocytes, including the agranulocytes. A significant increase in all of the liver function biomarkers except albumin, in lipid profiles except high‐density lipoprotein, and in the kidney function markers occurred in the negative control group compared to the rats of the normal control and positive control groups. The coadministration of mushroom extracts significantly ameliorated the toxic effects of the CF. The GL mushroom extract was more efficacious than that of the AP mushroom, possibly due to the presence of high levels of phenolic compounds and other antioxidants in the GL mushroom.
Analysis of the Changes in the Water Yield Coefficient over the Past 50 Years in the Huang-Huai-Hai River Basin, China
Authors: Shi Xiaoqing , Qin Tianling , Yan Denghua , Sun Ruochen , Cao Shuang , Jing Lanshu , Wang Yang , Gong Boya
Published: May 2018

This study analysed the temporal and spatial changes in the water yield coefficient (WYC), which represents the ratio of the gross amount of water resources to precipitation. Factors such as precipitation, rainstorm days, rainless days, vegetation cover change, and land use/cover change were considered to determine the causes of these changes. The results led to the following conclusions: (1) The average annual WYC of the Huang-Huai-Hai River Basin is between 0.03 and 0.58, with an average value of 0.17, which is smaller than the national average WYC of 0.4. (2) Temporally, the WYC varied slightly, with the western part showing a negative trend and the eastern part showing a positive trend. The WYC is positively correlated with precipitation, rainstorm days, and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and negatively correlated with rainless days. However, a slower change in NDVI produced a faster change in WYC. In areas with land use types exhibiting a large evapotranspiration decrease, the rate of change in the WYC increased. (3) Spatially, the distribution is fairly regular, exhibiting a gradual increase from the northern part of the Yellow River Basin (WYC < 0.1) to the surrounding areas. When the WYC is correlated with precipitation, rainstorm days, rainless days, and NDVI, the R2 values of the linear fitting results are 0.98, 0.91, 0.96, and 0.73, respectively. The WYC is positively correlated with precipitation, rainstorm days, and vegetation coverage and negatively correlated with rainless days, but the correlation coefficient is greatly influenced by the precipitation characteristics and land use types. In areas featuring high proportions of land use types associated with high evapotranspiration, the average WYC is low.
Data‐Driven Decision‐Making in the Design Optimization of Thin‐Walled Steel Perforated Sections: A Case Study
Authors: Lyu Zhi-Jun , Lu Qi , Song YiMing , Xiang Qian , Yang Guanghui
Published: May 2018

The rack columns have so distinctive characteristics in their design, which have regular perforations to facilitate installation of the rack system that it is more difficult to be analyzed with traditional cold‐formed steel structures design theory or standards. The emergence of industrial “big‐data” has created better innovative thinking for those working in various fields including science, engineering, and business. The main contribution of this paper lies in that, with engineering data from finite element simulation and physical test, a novel data‐driven model (DDM) using artificial neural network technology is proposed for optimization design of thin‐walled steel specific perforated members. The data‐driven model based on machine learning is able to provide a more effective help for decision‐making of innovative design in steel members. The results of the case study indicate that compared with the traditional finite element simulation and physical test, the DDM for the solving the hard problem of complicated steel perforated column design seems to be very promising.
Pretreatment Hemoglobin Level Is an Independent Prognostic Factor in Patients with Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Yue-Hua , Lu Yuquan , Lu Hong , Zhang Meng-Wei , Zhou Yue-Min , Li Xiang-Lei
Published: May 2018

Background/Aim. Few studies have reported the prognostic value of pretreatment hemoglobin levels in patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LA). In the present study, we retrospectively reviewed 306 LA patients for their prognosis associated with the pretreatment hemoglobin levels. Methods. Person-years and case fatality rate (CFR) were calculated from May 2010 to June 2017. Hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using the Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. Survival curves were generated using the Kaplan–Meier analysis. Results. Patients with low pretreatment hemoglobin (LPHb) levels had a higher CFR than did patients with normal pretreatment hemoglobin (NPHb) levels (HR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.06–2.08, and P=0.023). Overall survival of NPHb patients was significantly higher than that of LPHb patients (P<0.05). Conclusion. Low pretreatment hemoglobin level was demonstrated to be an independent biomarker for poor prognosis in patients with LA.
Evaluation of Self‐Healing Performance of PE and PVA Concrete Using Flexural Test
Authors: Kang Choonghyun , Huh Jungwon , Tran Quang Huy , Kwak Kiseok
Published: May 2018

The self‐healing performance of PE and PVA concrete was evaluated, by using the three‐point bending test with a notch. Four different crack inducement days were applied (7, 28, 49, and 91 days), and the same 21 days of healing period were applied to each case. The self‐healing environments were in 20°C water, and in the curing room with 20°C temperature and 60% humidity. The flexural strength and the initial flexural stiffness of before and after healing were compared. As a result, both the strength recovery effect and the stiffness recovery effect decreased with the delay of crack inducement, and specimens in the water environment showed higher healing effect than those in the air environment. PVA fiber showed a relatively greater recovery effect than PE fiber.
The Association between Maxillary Sinus Dimensions and Midface Parameters during Human Postnatal Growth
Authors: Przystańska Agnieszka , Kulczyk Tomasz , Rewekant Artur , Sroka Alicja , Jończyk-Potoczna Katarzyna , Gawriołek Krzysztof , Czajka-Jakubowska Agata
Published: May 2018

Objective. The aim of the study based on CT images was to assess the age-related changes in maxillary sinus diameters in relation to diameters of the facial skeleton. Materials and Methods. The retrospective analysis of CT images of the head of 170 patients aged 0–18 years (85 females and 85 males) was performed. Specific orientation points (zy, zm, pr, ns, n, and P) were identified in every patient and the following distances were measured: zy-zy, maximum facial width; zm-zm, midfacial width; n-pr, upper facial height; ns-pr, alveolar facial height; and ns-P, distance not indicated in craniometry. Results. The maxillary sinuses of every patient were bilaterally measured in three planes. Three diameters were obtained: maximum transverse (horizontal) diameter called MSW, maximum vertical diameter called MSH, and maximum anteroposterior diameter (length) called MSL. In females, the correlation of MSW, MSH, and MSL and zy-zy, as well as n-pr distances, is very strong. Moreover, the significant correlation was found between all measurements of maxillary sinus and ns-pr as well as ns-P distances in females. The correlation between MSL and all measurements of midface as well as MSH and MSW and all measurements except ns-P is stronger in females than in males. In males, all measurements of maxillary sinus correlate with ns-P distance very strongly. Conclusions. The statistical analysis (correlation and determination coefficient) showed that all measurements of maxillary sinuses correlate with midface dimensions.
Efficiency Assessment of Transit-Oriented Development by Data Envelopment Analysis: Case Study on the Den-en Toshi Line in Japan
Authors: Guo Jing , Nakamura Fumihiko , Li Qiang , Zhou Yuan
Published: May 2018

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is an urban planning approach that encourages a modal shift from private to public transportation. This shift can generate additional benefits from a sustainability perspective. This study aims to assess the efficiency of TOD by applying the data envelopment analysis (DEA) method. The ridership of public transportation is considered as the direct output characteristic of TOD efficiency, and nine indicators of ridership are selected as inputs on the basis of the core concepts of TOD. These concepts include density, diversity, and design (3Ds). The Tokyu Den-en Toshi Line in Japan is presented as a typical case of TOD because this line includes TOD and non-TOD stations. Assessing and comparing the results of all railway stations reveal that almost all indicator values of non-TOD stations are higher than those of TOD stations. The results suggest that TOD planning and programs are inefficient in terms of ridership generation. This implication, however, may be attributed to the inadequacy of the selected indicators for TOD assessment. The results obtained after adding operation year as input indicators and removing transfer station show that TOD stations perform efficiently and in accordance with expectations. This response indicates that the inclusion of influential factors is necessary for equitable TOD assessment. Therefore, other influential factors must be considered when evaluating the efficiency of TOD-based stations with different inherent attributes. In addition, the design input with the largest impact on all inefficient units was identified, suggesting that management of bus service and railway system should be well enhanced.
On the Separability of Unitarily Invariant Random Quantum States: The Unbalanced Regime
Authors: Nechita Ion
Published: May 2018

We study entanglement-related properties of random quantum states which are unitarily invariant, in the sense that their distribution is left unchanged by conjugation with arbitrary unitary operators. In the large matrix size limit, the distribution of these random quantum states is characterized by their limiting spectrum, a compactly supported probability distribution. We prove several results characterizing entanglement and the PPT property of random bipartite unitarily invariant quantum states in terms of the limiting spectral distribution, in the unbalanced asymptotical regime where one of the two subsystems is fixed, while the other one grows in size.
Correlation between Insertion Torque and Implant Stability Quotient in Tapered Implants with Knife-Edge Thread Design
Authors: Baldi Domenico , Lombardi Teresa , Colombo Jacopo , Cervino Gabriele , Perinetti Giuseppe , Di Lenarda Roberto , Stacchi Claudio
Published: May 2018

Aim. To evaluate the correlation between insertion torque (IT) and implant stability quotient (ISQ) in tapered implants with knife-edge threads.Methods. Seventy-five identical implants (Anyridge, Megagen) were inserted by using a surgical drilling unit with torque control and an integrated resonance frequency analysis module (Implantmed, W&H). IT (N/cm) and ISQ were recorded and implants were divided into three groups (n=25) according to the IT: low (<30), medium (30 < IT < 50), and high torque (>50). ISQ difference among groups was assessed by Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by Bonferroni-corrected Mann–WhitneyU-test for pairwise comparisons. The strength of the association between IT and ISQ was assessed by Spearman Rho correlation coefficient (α=0.05).Results. At the pairwise comparisons, a significant difference of ISQ values was demonstrated only between low torque and high torque groups. The strength of the association between IT and ISQ value was significant for both the entire sample and the medium torque group, while it was not significant in low and high torque groups.Conclusions. For the investigated implant, ISQ and IT showed a positive correlation up to values around 50 N/cm: higher torques subject the bone-implant system to unnecessary biological and mechanical stress without additional benefits in terms of implant stability. This trial is registered withNCT03222219.
Optimal Operation of High-Speed Trains Using Hybrid Model Predictive Control
Authors: Yang Yingze , Xu Zheng , Liu Weirong , Li Heng , Zhang Rui , Huang Zhiwu
Published: May 2018

The high-speed train operation process is highly nonlinear and has multiple constraints and objectives, which lead to a requirement for the automatic train operation (ATO) system. In this paper, a hybrid model predictive control (MPC) framework is proposed for the controller design of the ATO system. Firstly, a piecewise linear system with state and input constraints is constructed through piecewise linearization of the high-speed train’s nonlinear dynamics. Secondly, the piecewise linear system is transformed into a mixed logical dynamical (MLD) system by introducing the auxiliary binary variables. For the transformed MLD system, a hybrid MPC controller is designed to realize the precise control under hard constraints. To reduce the online computation complexity, the explicit control law is computed offline by employing the mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) technique. Simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Some New Theorems on c-Distance without Continuity in Cone Metric Spaces over Banach Algebras
Authors: Han Yan , Xu Shaoyuan
Published: May 2018

The fixed point theorems for one mapping and the common fixed point theorems for two mappings satisfying generalized Lipschitz conditions are obtained, without appealing to continuity for mappings or normality for cone in the conditions. Furthermore, we not only get the existence of the fixed point but also get the uniqueness. These results greatly improve and generalize several well-known comparable results in the literature. Moreover, example is given to support our new results.
A Possibilistic Approach for the Prediction of the Risk of Interference between Power and Signal Lines Onboard Satellites
Authors: Toscani Nicola , Grassi Flavia , Spadacini Giordano , Pignari Sergio A.
Published: May 2018

This work presents a hybrid random/fuzzy approach for uncertainty quantification in electromagnetic modelling, which combines probability and possibility theory in order to properly account for both aleatory and epistemic uncertainty, respectively. In particular, a typical intrasystem electromagnetic-compatibility problem in aerospace applications is considered, where some parameters are affected by fabrication tolerances or other kinds of randomness (aleatory uncertainty) and others are inherently deterministic but unknown due to human’s lack of knowledge (epistemic uncertainty). Namely, a differential-signal line in a satellite is subject to crosstalk due to a nearby dc power line carrying conducted emissions generated by a dc-dc converter in a wide frequency range (up to 100 MHz). The nonideal features of the signal line (e.g., weak unbalance of terminal loads) are treated as random variables (RVs), whereas the mutual position of signal and power line is characterized by possibility theory through suitable fuzzy variables. Such a hybrid approach allows deriving a general and exhaustive description of uncertainty of the target variable of interest, that is, the differential noise voltage induced in the signal line. The obtained results are compared versus a conventional Monte Carlo simulation where all parameters are treated as RVs, and the advantages of the proposed approach (in terms of completeness and richness of information gained about sensitivity of results) are highlighted.
Removal of Salt and Pepper Noise in Corrupted Image Based on Multilevel Weighted Graphs and IGOWA Operator
Authors: Xu Qin , Zhang Qiang , Hu Duo , Liu Jinpei
Published: May 2018

This paper proposes a novel iterative two-stage method to suppress salt and pepper noise. In the first phase, a multilevel weighted graphs model for image representation is built to characterize the gray or color difference between the pixels and their neighbouring pixels at different scales. Then the noise detection is cast into finding the node with minimum node strength in the graphs. In the second phase, we develop a method to determine the order-inducing variables and weighted vectors of the induced generalized order weighted average (IGOWA) operator to restore the detected noise candidate. In the proposed method, the two stages are not separate, but rather alternate. Simulated experiments on gray and color images demonstrate that the proposed method can remove the noise effectively and keep the image details well in comparison to other state-of-the-art methods.
Effect of Substituting Purple Rice Flour for Wheat Flour on Physicochemical Characteristics, In Vitro Digestibility, and Sensory Evaluation of Biscuits
Authors: Klunklin Warinporn , Savage Geoffrey
Published: May 2018

Purple rice flour contains high levels of a number of antioxidant compounds; however, it has seldom been used as an ingredient in bakery products. The aim was to increase the nutritional value of biscuits by adding purple rice flour to a basic wheat flour biscuit. The substitution of purple rice flour in place of wheat flour modified the characteristics of the biscuits in terms of increasing the nutritional values. They contained high fiber, antioxidants, and antioxidant activities, while slightly changing the physical properties such as hardness and spread ratio. The study showed that the protein digestibility increased as the content of the purple rice flour was increased in the biscuit mix. The 100% purple rice flour biscuits had the lowest predicted glycemic index (pGI) of all the biscuits. Sensory analysis showed that the overall acceptability of the blended flour biscuits at 25 and 50% substitution levels was slightly less than that of the control biscuits with only 9%; however, the scores were above 5 which means the panelists still liked the biscuits a lot. Overall, the inclusion of purple rice flour in biscuits mix increased crude protein content, protein digestibility, and bioactive compounds with acceptable sensory scores from consumers up to 50% substitution of purple rice.
Temporomandibular Disorders: “Occlusion” Matters!
Authors: de Kanter Robert J. A. M. , Battistuzzi Pasquale G. F. C. M. , Truin Gert-Jan
Published: May 2018

By analogy with the journal’s title Pain Research and Management, this review describes TMD Research and Management. More specific are the (1) research aspects of “occlusion,” still one of the most controversial topics in TMD, and (2) as much as possible evidence-based management aspects of “TMD” for the dental practitioner.Research. The disorders temporomandibular dysfunction and the synonymous craniomandibular dysfunction are still being discussed intensely in the literature. Traditionally, attention is mostly devoted to occlusion and its relationship with these disorders. The conclusions reached are often contradictory. Considering the definitions of temporomandibular and craniomandibular dysfunctions/disorders and “occlusion,” a possible explanation for this controversy can be found in the subsequent methodological problems of the studies. Based on a Medline search of these terms over the past 40 years related to contemporary terms such as “Evidence Based Dentistry” and “Pyramid of Evidence,” these methodological aspects are examined, resulting in recommendations for future research and TMD-occlusal therapy.Management. To assist the dental practitioner in his/her daily routine to meet the modern standards of best practice, 7 guidelines are formulated that are explained and accompanied with clinical examples for an evidence-based treatment of patients with this disorder in general dental practices.
Comparison of SNP Genotypes Related to Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy (PVR) across Slovenian and European Subpopulations
Authors: Lumi Xhevat , Jelen Mateja M. , Jevšinek Skok Daša , Boštjančič Emanuela , Ravnik-Glavač Metka , Hawlina Marko , Glavač Damjan
Published: May 2018

The present study investigated the distribution of genotypes within single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes, related to PVR pathogenesis across European subpopulations. Genotype distributions of 42 SNPs among 96 Slovenian healthy controls were investigated and compared to genotype frequencies in 503 European individuals (Ensembl database) and their subpopulations. Furthermore, a case-control status was simulated to evaluate effects of allele frequency changes on statistically significant results in gene-association studies investigating functional polymorphisms. In addition, 96 healthy controls were investigated within 4 SNPs: rs17561 (IL1A), rs2069763 (IL2), rs2229094 (LTA), and rs1800629 (TNF) in comparison to PVR patients. Significant differences (P<0.05) in distribution of genotypes among 96 Slovenian participants and a European population were found in 10 SNPs: rs3024498 (IL10), rs315952 (IL1RN), rs2256965 (LST1), rs2256974 (LST1), rs909253 (LTA), rs2857602 (LTA), rs3138045 (NFKB1A), rs3138056 (NFKB1A), rs7656613 (PDGFRA), and rs1891467 (TGFB2), which additionally showed significant differences in genotype distribution among European subpopulations. This analysis also showed statistically significant differences in genotype distributions between healthy controls and PVR patients in rs17561 of the IL1A gene (OR, 3.00; 95% CI, 0.77–11.75; P=0.036) and in rs1800629 of the TNF gene (OR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.27–0.87; P=0.014). Furthermore, we have shown that a small change (0.02) in minor allele frequency (MAF) significantly affects the statistical p value in case-control studies. In conclusion, the study showed differences in genotype distributions in healthy populations across different European countries. Differences in distribution of genotypes may have had influenced failed replication results in previous PVR-related SNP-association studies.
Overturning Axis Selection in Curved Box-Girder Bridges with Single-Column Piers
Authors: Song Guohua , Che Delu , Li Minghui
Published: May 2018

This study was conducted to theoretically analyze the overturning axes of curved box-girder bridges with three equal spans and single-column piers per the influence of curvature radius and bearing eccentricity on overturning axis. The theoretical analysis is verified by a model bridge experiment. The results show that overturning axis can be effectively determined according to the connecting line of either bearings at the central piers or outmost bearings at abutments as influenced by curvature radius and bearing eccentricity. In other words, no bearings are outside of overturning axis. All the bearings but the two on the overturning axis are located on the inner side of the axis. For curved bridges with multispans and single-column or double-column piers, the overturning axis is characterized by the connecting line of the two adjacent outmost bearings.