bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implications of a complexity perspective for systematic reviews and guideline development in health decision making
Authors: Petticrew Mark , Knai Cécile , Thomas James , Rehfuess Eva Annette , Noyes Jane , Gerhardus Ansgar , Grimshaw Jeremy M , Rutter Harry , McGill Elizabeth
Published: January 2019

There is growing interest in the potential for complex systems perspectives in evaluation. This reflects a move away from interest in linear chains of cause-and-effect, towards considering health as an outcome of interlinked elements within a connected whole. Although systems-based approaches have a long history, their concrete implications for health decisions are still being assessed. Similarly, the implications of systems perspectives for the conduct of systematic reviews require further consideration. Such reviews underpin decisions about the implementation of effective interventions, and are a crucial part of the development of guidelines. Although they are tried and tested as a means of synthesising evidence on the effectiveness of interventions, their applicability to the synthesis of evidence about complex interventions and complex systems requires further investigation. This paper, one of a series of papers commissioned by the WHO, sets out the concrete methodological implications of a complexity perspective for the conduct of systematic reviews. It focuses on how review questions can be framed within a complexity perspective, and on the implications for the evidence that is reviewed. It proposes criteria which can be used to determine whether or not a complexity perspective will add value to a review or an evidence-based guideline, and describes how to operationalise key aspects of complexity as concrete research questions. Finally, it shows how these questions map onto specific types of evidence, with a focus on the role of qualitative and quantitative evidence, and other types of information.
Formulating questions to explore complex interventions within qualitative evidence synthesis
Authors: Booth Andrew , Noyes Jane , Flemming Kate , Moore Graham , Tunçalp Özge , Shakibazadeh Elham
Published: January 2019

When making decisions about complex interventions, guideline development groups need to factor in the sociocultural acceptability of an intervention, as well as contextual factors that impact on the feasibility of that intervention. Qualitative evidence synthesis offers one method of exploring these issues. This paper considers the extent to which current methods of question formulation are meeting this challenge. It builds on a rapid review of 38 different frameworks for formulating questions. To be useful, a question framework should recognise context (as setting, environment or context); acknowledge the criticality of different stakeholder perspectives (differentiated from the target population); accommodate elements of time/timing and place; be sensitive to qualitative data (eg, eliciting themes or findings). None of the identified frameworks satisfied all four of these criteria. An innovative question framework, PerSPEcTiF, is proposed and retrospectively applied to a published WHO guideline for a complex intervention. Further testing and evaluation of the PerSPEcTiF framework is required.
Leishmaniosis in dogs and cats
Authors: Silvestrini Paolo
Published: January 2019

Canine leishmaniosis is pushing northwards out of its traditional endemic regions as the distribution of its vector expands and increasing numbers of dogs travel between countries. In non‐endemic areas, imported disease represents a threat to animal and human health. This article provides an understanding of the epidemiology, life cycle and transmission of Leishmania infantum, reviews its diagnosis and treatment, and briefly discusses the current understanding of feline leishmaniosis.
Algebraic properties of if-then-else and commutative three-valued tests
Authors: Soo Khí-Uí , Stokes Tim
Published: January 2019

This paper establishes a finite axiomatization of possibly non-halting computer programs and tests, with the if-then-else operation. The model is a two-sorted algebra, with one sort being the programs and the other being the tests. The main operation on programs is composition, and 1 and 0 represent the programs skip and loop (i.e. never halts) respectively. Programs are modeled as partial functions on some state space [Formula: see text], with tests modeled as partial predicates on [Formula: see text].

The operations on the tests are the usual logical connectives ∧, ∨, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In addition, there is the hybrid operation of if-then-else, and the test-valued operation [Formula: see text] on programs which is true when a program halts, and undefined otherwise. The halting operation [Formula: see text] implies that operations of domain [Formula: see text] and domain join ∨ may also be expressed.

When tests are assumed to be possibly non-halting, the evaluation strategy of the logical connectives affects the result. Here we model parallel evaluation, as opposed to the common sequential (or short-circuit) evaluation strategy. For example, we view [Formula: see text] as false if either [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] is false, even if the other does not halt.
Interplay of neutron transfer and collective degrees of freedom in the fusion dynamics of 16O +76Ge and 18O +74Ge reactions
Authors: Gautam Manjeet Singh , Khatri Hitender , Vinod K.
Published: January 2019

This work examined the fusion dynamics of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] reactions within the framework of the static Woods–Saxon potential model, the energy dependent Woods–Saxon potential (EDWSP) model and coupled channel formulation. The effects of inelastic surface excitations, static deformation of colliding pairs and /or neutron transfer channels on fusion process are investigated through the coupled channel method. The calculations based upon static Woods–Saxon potential in conjunction with one-dimensional Wong formula strongly under predict the fusion data of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] reactions at sub-barrier energies. However, such discrepancies are removed if one uses couplings to nuclear structure degrees of freedom of reacting nuclei. The coupled channel calculations obtained by considering the vibrational nature of the colliding nuclei fairly reproduce the fusion data of [Formula: see text] reactions. For this reaction, the neutron transfer channels, which are expected to influence strongly the fusion yields at below barrier energies, in reality contribute very weakly to fusion process. While in case of [Formula: see text] reaction, the consideration of vibrational couplings as well as the rotational couplings for target provides a reasonable explanation to the fusion cross-section data at near and above barrier energies. In distinction, the energy dependence in the nucleus–nucleus potential causes barrier modulation effects and subsequently modifies the barrier profile of the interaction barrier in such a way that the effective fusion barrier between the colliding pair reduces. This ultimately brings larger fusion cross-sections over the outcomes of one-dimensional barrier penetration model and the EDWSP model based calculations appreciably explained the fusion dynamics of chosen reaction at energy spanning around the Coulomb barrier. Both models (EDWSP and coupled channel model) lead to barrier lowering effects and modeled quantum tunneling in different way, henceforth, adequately explore the fusion dynamics of the studied reactions in near and above barrier energy regions.
Multifunctional conjugated polymer nanoparticles for photoacoustic-based multimodal imaging and cancer photothermal therapy
Authors: Men Xiaoju , Yuan Zhen
Published: January 2019

Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) is a hybrid imaging method based on photoacoustic (PA) effects, which is able to capture the structure, function, and molecular information of biological tissues with high resolution. To date, therapeutic techniques under the guidance of PAI have provided new strategies for accurate diagnosis and precise treatment of tumors. In particular, conjugated polymer nanoparticles have been extensively inspected for PA-based cancer theranostics largely due to their superior optical properties such as tunable spectrum and large absorption coefficient and their good biocompatibility, and abundant functional groups. This mini-review mainly focuses on the recent advances toward the development of novel conjugated polymer nanoparticles for PA-based multimodal imaging and cancer photothermal therapy.
The Emerging Significance of Indo-Pacific: Japan, China, US and the Regional Power Shift
Authors: JAIN Purnendra
Published: January 2019

“Indo-Pacific” is a new term in the geopolitical lexicon and a response to rapidly evolving global power shifts that currently induce strategic realignments among major regional players. It is increasingly used by political leaders, policymakers, journalists and academic commentators and in government documents. While Indo-Pacific is used frequently today, each proponent of the term attaches varied emphases, guided by their own strategic prisms. The Indo-Pacific concept has yet to be institutionalised. Some offshoots, such as the rebirthed idea of a quadrilateral framework among the key proponents of a “free and open Indo-Pacific” and the proposal to jointly fund infrastructure projects in Asia, appear to be in direct competition with China’s Belt and Road Initiative. How the Indo-Pacific concept would affect the regional power balance remains unclear. However, neither the concept nor the strategic thinking and actions it inspires will disappear anytime soon.
Temporal Coherence for Sound Transmission Through Fluctuating Deep Water with Adiabatic Perturbed Modes
Authors: Yu Xiaotao , Peng Linhui , Yu Gaokun
Published: January 2019

Adiabatic approximation (AP) combined with perturbation theory gives a fast normal-mode solution of temporal coherence for sound field in a two-dimensional deep water with time-varying random internal waves. Internal waves induced mode changes are deduced using the first-order perturbation theory [C. T. Tindle, L. M. O’Driscoll and C. J. Higham, Coupled mode perturbation theory of range dependence, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 108(1) (2000) 76–83]. And mode perturbations in amplitude are neglected by the adiabatic method with wavenumber perturbations in phase merely considered. The AP expression of temporal coherence function is theoretically identical to the adiabatic transport equation theory [J. A. Colosi, T. K. Chandrayadula, A. G. Voronovich and V. E. Ostashev, Coupled mode transport theory for sound transmission through an ocean with random sound speed perturbations: Coherence in deep water environments, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 134(4) (2013) 3119–3133]. Numerical results of the adiabatic temporal coherence function for several low frequencies and ranges up to 1000[Formula: see text]km are calculated. Then the coherence time scales obtained from the calculations are examined by a one-way coupled theory considering forward scattering [A. G. Voronovich, V. E. Ostashev and J. A. Colosi, Temporal coherence of acoustic signals in a fluctuating ocean, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 129(6) (2011) 3590–3597]. Comparisons demonstrate that the range and frequency dependence of coherence time for both methods are quite close. And this shows good agreement with the well-known inverse frequency and inverse square root range laws. In addition, the internal wave energy dependence of coherence time is also studied.
History of subduction erosion and accretion recorded in the Yarlung Suture Zone, southern Tibet
Authors: Metcalf Kathryn , Kapp Paul
Published: January 2019

The history of pre-Cretaceous subduction accretion and erosion along the Yarlung Suture Zone remains poorly constrained. We present new geological mapping along
c.
200 km of the suture zone, 4881 detrital zircon U–Pb ages, and sandstone petrography for the subduction complex and Tethyan Himalayan strata. We provide the first documentation of the
c.
158 Ma marine Xiazha Formation, which contains volcanic clasts of intermediate to felsic volcanic rocks and ooids with both calcareous and volcanic cores. Based on our new data and synthesis of published data, we present a model in which the Zedong arc represents the southwards migration of the Gangdese arc onto a forearc ophiolite that was generated proximal to the southern Asian margin during Neotethyan slab rollback at 160–150 Ma. This contrasts with previous suggestions that the Zedong arc, Yarlung ophiolites and subduction complex rocks developed above an intra-oceanic subduction zone thousands of kilometres south of Asia. Although Gangdese arc magmatism began in the Middle Triassic, the only forearc units preserved are 160 Ma until collision between the Xigaze forearc basin and Tethyan Himalaya at
c.
59 Ma. This suggests that almost all pre-Cretaceous forearc assemblages have been removed by subduction erosion at the trench.
The material-weight illusion disappears or inverts in objects made of two materials
Authors: Paulun Vivian C. , Buckingham Gavin , Goodale Melvyn A. , Fleming Roland W.
Published: January 2019

The material-weight illusion (MWI) occurs when an object that looks heavy (e.g., stone) and one that looks light (e.g., Styrofoam) have the same mass. When such stimuli are lifted, the heavier-looking object feels lighter than the lighter-looking object, presumably because well-learned priors about the density of different materials are violated. We examined whether a similar illusion occurs when a certain weight distribution is expected (such as the metal end of a hammer being heavier), but weight is uniformly distributed. In experiment 1, participants lifted bipartite objects that appeared to be made of two materials (combinations of stone, Styrofoam, and wood) but were manipulated to have a uniform weight distribution. Most participants experienced an inverted MWI (i.e., the heavier-looking side felt heavier), suggesting an integration of incoming sensory information with density priors. However, a replication of the classic MWI was found when the objects appeared to be uniformly made of just one of the materials ( experiment 2). Both illusions seemed to be independent of the forces used when the objects were lifted. When lifting bipartite objects but asked to judge the weight of the whole object, participants experienced no illusion ( experiment 3). In experiment 4, we investigated weight perception in objects with a nonuniform weight distribution and again found evidence for an integration of prior and sensory information. Taken together, our seemingly contradictory results challenge most theories about the MWI. However, Bayesian integration of competing density priors with the likelihood of incoming sensory information may explain the opposing illusions.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We report a novel weight illusion that contradicts all current explanations of the material-weight illusion: When lifting an object composed of two materials, the heavier-looking side feels heavier, even when the true weight distribution is uniform. The opposite (classic) illusion is found when the same materials are lifted in two separate objects. Identifying the common mechanism underlying both illusions will have implications for perception more generally. A potential candidate is Bayesian inference with competing priors.
Altered baroreflex sensitivity in young women with a family history of hypertension
Authors: Matthews Evan L. , Sebzda Kelly N. , Wenner Megan M.
Published: January 2019

A positive family history of hypertension (+FH) is a risk factor for the future development of hypertension. Hypertension is associated with reductions in baroreflex sensitivity (BRS). Therefore, we hypothesized that young women with a +FH [ n = 12, 22 ± 1 yr, body mass index (BMI) 21 ± 1 kg/m2, mean arterial pressure (MAP) 79 ± 1 mmHg] would have lower BRS compared with young women without a family history of hypertension (−FH) ( n = 13, 22 ± 1 yr, BMI 21 ± 1 kg/m2, MAP 77 ± 2 mmHg, all P > 0.05 between groups). Continuous measurements of muscle sympathetic nerve activity, blood pressure, and electrocardiogram derived R-R interval were recorded at rest and during a Valsalva maneuver. Both cardiovagal BRS and vascular sympathetic BRS were assessed. Resting cardiovagal BRS was reduced in the +FH women (all sequences: −FH 32.3 ± 3.7 vs. +FH 20.2 ± 2.9 ms/mmHg, P = 0.02). Cardiovagal BRS during phase IV (−FH 16.5 ± 2.7 vs. +FH 7.6 ± 1.3 ms/mmHg, P < 0.01) but not phase II (−FH 5.5 ± 0.9 vs. +FH 5.0 ± 0.8 ms/mmHg, P = 0.67) of the Valsalva maneuver was also lower in the +FH women. Vascular sympathetic BRS at rest (−FH −2.38 ± 0.7 vs. +FH −2.33 ± 0.3 bursts· min−1·mmHg−1, P = 0.58) and during the Valsalva (−FH −0.74 ± 0.23 vs. +FH −0.66 ± 0.18 bursts·15 s−1·mmHg−1, P = 0.79) were not different between groups. These data suggest that healthy young women with a positive family history of hypertension have reduced cardiovagal BRS. This may be one mechanism contributing to the increased incidence of hypertension in this population later in life.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Having a family history of hypertension increases the risk of developing future hypertension. Reductions in baroreflex function have been demonstrated in hypertension and are an important marker for future cardiovascular disease. We show that young women with a family history of hypertension have lower cardiovagal baroreflex sensitivity. This alteration in autonomic function may be one mechanism contributing to the future incidence of hypertension in this patient population.
Novel Data Sponsoring Control Scheme Based on the Dual-Leader Stackelberg Game Model
Authors: Kim Sungwook
Published: January 2019

In the phase of the process that will lead to the future 5G networks, the demand of mobile data usage will continue to rise sharply, and the high cost of data will become a critical concern. As a major paradigm shift, data sponsoring has been introduced with the hope of benefiting the practice of the telecommunication industry. The main idea of data sponsoring is to subsidize the service payment while appealing to more users; it can potentially generate more profit gains for both the users and the system operators. In this paper, the intelligent interactions of three network entities, i.e., the users, the service providers, and the content providers, are analyzed based on the basic ideas of game theory, and we design an effective data sponsoring control scheme using a novel dual-leader Stackelberg game model. As dual leaders, service and content providers share the profit in a cooperative manner, and mobile users react individually to the leaders in a competitive manner. By employing different game methodologies, we investigate the mutual relationship between the network entities and aim to balance the user’s payoff and the system revenue. To validate the proposed approach, an analytic simulation model and numerical results are provided to demonstrate the efficiency and feasibility of the proposed approach under the 5G network infrastructure. Finally, we provide further challenges and various future opportunities in this research area.
Precise Vehicle Position and Heading Estimation Using a Binary Road Marking Map
Authors: Kim Kyu-Won , Im Jun-Hyuck , Heo Moon-Beom , Jee Gyu-In
Published: January 2019

Road markings are always present on roads to guide and control traffic. Therefore, they can be used at any time for vehicle localization. Moreover, they can be easily extracted by using light detection and ranging (LIDAR) intensity because they are brightly colored. We propose a vehicle localization method using a 2D road marking grid map. The grid map inserts the map information into the grid directly. Thus, an additional process (such as line detection) is not required and there is no problem due to false detection. We obtained road marking using a 3D LIDAR (Velodyne HDL-32E) and binarized this information to store in the map. Thus, we could reduce the map size significantly. In the previous research, the road marking grid map was used only for position estimation. However, we propose a position-and-heading estimation algorithm using the binary road marking grid map. Accordingly, we derive more precise position estimation results. Moreover, position reliability is an important factor for vehicle localization. Autonomous vehicles may cause accidents if they cannot maintain their lane momentarily. Therefore, we propose an algorithm for evaluating map matching results. Consequently, we can use only reliable matching results and increase position reliability. The experiment was conducted in Gangnam, Seoul, where GPS error occurs largely. In the experimental results, the lateral root mean square (RMS) error was 0.05 m and longitudinal RMS error was 0.08 m. Further, we obtained a position error of less than 50 cm in both lateral and longitudinal directions with a 99% confidence level.
An MEA‐Tuning Method for Design of the PID Controller
Authors: Zhang Yongli , Zhang Lijun , Dong Zhiliang
Published: January 2019

The optimization and tuning of parameters is very important for the performance of the PID controller. In this paper, a novel parameter tuning method based on the mind evolutionary algorithm (MEA) was presented. The MEA firstly transformed the problem solutions into the population individuals embodied by code and then divided the population into superior subpopulations and temporary subpopulations and used the similar taxis and dissimilation operations for searching the global optimal solution. In order to verify the control performance of the MEA, three classical functions and five typical industrial process control models were adopted for testing experiments. Experimental results indicated that the proposed approach was feasible and valid: the MEA with the superior design feature and parallel structure could memorize more evolutionary information, generate superior genes, and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness for searching global optimal parameters. In addition, the MEA‐tuning method can be easily applied to real industrial practices and provides a novel and convenient solution for the optimization and tuning of the PID controller.
Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen) for Treatment and Prevention of Urolithiasis: A Drosophila Animal Study
Authors: Chen Wen-Chi , Chou Tzu-Yang , Chen Huey-Yi , Yang You-Rong , Man Kee-Ming , Tsai Ming-Yen , Chen Yung-Hsiang
Published: January 2019

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been prescribed for the treatment of stone disease for thousands of years. Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen) was previously shown to have potential for treatment of stone disease in animal and clinical studies. In this study, we further studied the antiurolithiasis effect of Danshen in a fly model. Wild-type male Drosophila melanogaster CS flies were used in this study, with 0.25% ethylene glycol (EG) as a lithogenic agent. 2% potassium citrate (K-citrate) was the positive control agent for prevention (all agents added at the start of experiment) and treatment (drugs added after 2-week addition of lithogenic agent) studies compared with 15, 30, and 60 μg/ml of Danshen extract. In the prevention study, both 2% K-citrate and Danshen (30 and 60 μg/ml) significantly inhibited EG-induced calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystal formation. In the treatment study, only 2% K-citrate and high-dose of Danshen (60 μg/ml) significantly inhibited EG-induced CaOx crystal formation. Survival analysis for EG with Danshen was compared with that for EG with K-citrate. The mean lifespan was significantly reduced by administration of EG, and the results in the Danshen group were similar to those in the control group. In conclusion, Danshen revealed both preventive and treatment effects on CaOx crystal formation in a fly model.
Homozygous CALR Mutation in Primary Myelofibrosis and Its Effect on Disease Phenotype: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Rizvi Qurratulain , Zaidi Uzma , Shahid Saba , Ahmed Shariq , Shamsi Tahir
Published: January 2019

Somatic mutations in CALR gene have been reported in 60%–88% of patients with essential thrombocythemia (ET) and primary myelofibrosis (PMF) who are negative for JAK2 and MPL mutations. Most of the CALR mutations analyzed to date are heterozygous mutations in exon 9 of the gene. Homozygosity in CALR gene is rarely reported, and its association with clinical behavior of disease and impact on outcome of patients is not studied so far. We herein report a case of intermediate-2 risk PMF (according to IPSS) diagnosed with homozygous mutation (c.1139delA p.E380fs∗50) in CALR gene having severe disease manifestations at presentation.
Acute Renal Failure Secondary to Inadvertent Propylene Glycol Overdose with Single-Day High-Dose Vitamin D (Stosstherapy)
Authors: Jelley David H. , Ali Deborah Zayneb Mohamad , Condren Michelle
Published: January 2019

Globally, there has been increasing attention paid to vitamin D deficiency and its treatment. Vitamin D stosstherapy with high-dose ergocalciferol in a single day is reemerging as a potential treatment option. We present an as yet unreported complication of acute renal injury due to propylene glycol toxicity in a 7-month infant treated with vitamin D stosstherapy. The product label for the vitamin D used for this patient states it is dissolved in propylene glycol (PG), but the amount is not listed on this or other US ergocalciferol liquid products that contain PG. Caution should be used when considering vitamin D stosstherapy with liquid ergocalciferol products available in the United States.
Identification and Containment of a Cluster of Two Bacillus cereus Infections in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Papan Cihan , Förster Kai , Herterich Reinhard , Schulze Andreas , Schubert Sören , Flemmer Andreas W.
Published: January 2019

We report a cluster of invasive Bacillus cereus infections in a neonatal intensive care unit. We describe the clinical course of two infected patients, one of whom died of severe pneumonia after successfully being weaned from ECMO. Environmental analyses failed to yield a common source. Molecular characterization confirmed the homogeneity of both isolates. Rigorous hygiene control and adequate therapy enabled the containment of the cluster.
Inflammatory Microenvironment and Adipogenic Differentiation in Obesity: The Inhibitory Effect of Theobromine in a Model of Human Obesity In Vitro
Authors: Fuggetta Maria Pia , Zonfrillo Manuela , Villivà Cristina , Bonmassar Enzo , Ravagnan Giampiero
Published: January 2019

Objective. Obesity is considered a clinic condition characterized by a state of chronic low-grade inflammation. The role of macrophages and adipocytokines in adipose tissue inflammation is in growing investigation. The physiopathological mechanisms involved in inflammatory state in obesity are not fully understood though the adipocytokines seem to characterize the biochemical link between obesity and inflammation. The aim of this work is to analyze the effect of theobromine, a methylxanthine present in the cocoa, on adipogenesis and on proinflammatory cytokines evaluated in a model of fat tissue inflammation in vitro. Methods. In order to mimic in vitro this inflammatory condition, we investigated the interactions between human-like macrophages U937 and human adipocyte cell lines SGBS. The effect of theobromine on in vitro cell growth, cell cycle, adipogenesis, and cytokines release in the supernatants has been evaluated. Results. Theobromine significantly inhibits the differentiation of preadipocytes in mature adipocytes and reduces the levels of proinflammatory cytokines as MCP-1 and IL-1β in the supernatants obtained by the mature adipocytes and macrophages interaction. Conclusion. Theobromine reduces adipogenesis and proinflammatory cytokines; these data suggest its potential therapeutic effect for treating obesity by control of macrophages infiltration in adipose tissue and inflammation.
A Rare Case of Spontaneous Hemorrhage in a Giant Accessory Spleen in a Child
Authors: Grilli Gianpaolo , Pastore Valentina , Bertozzi Vincenzo , Cintoli Annarita Nunzia , Perfetto Francesco , Nobili Maria , Canale Francesco , Macarini Luca
Published: January 2019

Accessory spleen (AS) is a condition found in about 20% of patients and is most commonly located in the hilar region of the spleen. It is more often asymptomatic, single, and smaller than 2 cm. In the present study, we report the rare case of a 13-year-old boy with giant accessory spleen underwent spontaneous intrasplenic hemorrhage who presented with recurrent abdominal pain. Contrast-enhanced MRI was mandatory for the diagnosis before surgical procedure.
Innate Lymphoid Cells: A Link between the Nervous System and Microbiota in Intestinal Networks
Authors: Han Lin , Wang Xin-miao , Di Sha , Gao Ze-zheng , Li Qing-wei , Wu Hao-ran , Wang Qing , Zhao Lin-hua , Tong Xiao-lin
Published: January 2019

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a novel family of innate immune cells that act as key coordinators of intestinal mucosal surface immune defense and are essential for maintaining intestinal homeostasis and barrier integrity by responding to locally produced effector cytokines or direct recognition of exogenous or endogenous danger patterns. ILCs are also involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Many studies have demonstrated the occurrence of crosstalk between ILCs and intestinal microbiota, and ILCs have recently been shown to be connected to the enteric nervous system (ENS). Thus, ILCs may act as a key link between the nervous system and microbiota in intestinal networks. In this review, we briefly summarize the role of the ILCs in the intestinal tract (particularly in the context of IBD) and discuss the relationship between ILCs and the microbiota/ENS.
Formulation of a Linearized Model for Vehicle‐Track Interactions
Authors: Huo Fei , Dai Huanyun
Published: January 2019

In this paper, a fundamental wheel‐rail interaction (WRI) element accompanied by its coupling matrices with other vehicle‐track components have been derived taking into consideration the aspect of linearization. The key to the presented formulation is the use of the geometrical relationships of relative motions between degrees of freedom (DOFs) and energy principle. To the WRI element, both of the conditions of wheel‐rail contacts and wheel‐rail separations are allowed in the numerical computations; besides, the effects of the linear creepage and the gravitational restoring are considered in the description of wheel‐rail interactions. By comparing with an advanced three‐dimensional nonlinear model, the capability of the linear model in characterizing the response amplitude and frequency characteristic of vehicle‐track systems is demonstrated. Moreover, the method for the random vibration analysis of the linear model is presented by treating the creep coefficients as the random sources, through which the safety margin of system response can be predicted well. From the numerical examples, it is, additionally, concluded that the lateral creep coefficient holds significant influence on wheel‐rail lateral interactions and track vibrations, especially for the responses at low frequency ranges.
Predict the Entrepreneurial Intention of Fresh Graduate Students Based on an Adaptive Support Vector Machine Framework
Authors: Tu Jixia , Lin Aiju , Chen Huiling , Li Yuping , Li Chengye
Published: January 2019

Under the background of “innovation and entrepreneurship,” how to scientifically and rationally choose employment or independent entrepreneurship according to their own comprehensive situation is of great significance to the planning and development of their own career and the social adaptation of university personnel training. This study aims to develop an adaptive support vector machine framework, called RF‐CSCA‐SVM, for predicting college students′ entrepreneurial intention in advance; that is, students choose to start a business or find a job after graduation. RF‐CSCA‐SVM combines random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), sine cosine algorithm (SCA), and chaotic local search. In this framework, RF is used to select the most important factors; SVM is employed to establish the relationship model between the factors and the students’ decision to choose to start their own business or look for jobs. SCA is used to tune the optimal parameters for SVM. Additionally, chaotic local search is utilized to enhance the search capability of SCA. A total of 300 students were collected to develop the predictive model. To validate the developed method, other four meta‐heuristic based SVM methods were used for comparison in terms of classification accuracy, Matthews Correlation Coefficients (MCC), sensitivity, and specificity. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can be regarded as a promising success with the excellent predictive performance. Promisingly, the established adaptive SVM framework might serve as a new candidate of powerful tools for entrepreneurial intention prediction.
Wide-Band High-Gain DGS Antenna System for Indoor Robot Positioning
Authors: Bai Lu , Du Chenglie
Published: January 2019

Based on multisource wireless signal fusion technology, the autonomous positioning systems of robots have been widely employed. How to design a compact compostable antenna array for indoor robot positioning is still a problem. In this study, we proposed a compact ultrathin antenna unit that effectively reduces the mutual coupling between any adjacent units, while covering most of the existing communication bands, including 2G/3G/4G/Wi-Fi, which will greatly reduce the size of the positioning antenna array. The proposed antenna system has been employed for positioning purpose with high-gain, wide-frequency band and limited size. It necessarily improves the accuracy of positioning signal from various unknown sources and finally accomplishes its autonomous positioning function.
An Approach to Enhance Dissolution Rate of Tamoxifen Citrate
Authors: SreeHarsha Nagaraja , Hiremath Jagadeesh G. , Chilukuri Swathi , Aitha Rajesh Kumar , Al-Dhubiab Bandar E. , Venugopala Katharigatta N. , Alzahrani Abdullah Mossa , Meravanige Girish
Published: January 2019

We tested the solubility and dissolution of tamoxifen citrate to ascertain the optimal conditions for faster dissolution. Using the solvent evaporation method and hydrophilic carriers, we formulated tamoxifen citrate (TC) that contained solid dispersions (SDs). We increased the solubility and dissolution rate of TC with a solid dispersion system that consisted of polyethylene glycol (PEG-6000), beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD), and a combination of carriers. Physicochemical characteristics of solubility (mg/ml) were found to be 0.987±0.04 (water), 1.324±0.05 (6.8pH PBS), and 1.156±0.03 (7.4 pH PBS) for F5 formulation, percentage yield was between 98.74 ± 1.11% and 99.06 ± 0.58%, drug content was between 98.06±0.58 and 99.06±1.10, and dissolution studies binary complex showed a faster release of TC as compared to a single polymer and pure drug. Furthermore, thermal properties, physicochemical drug and polymer interaction, crystal properties, and morphology were determined using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray differential studies, and scanning electron microscopy. We used the same proportion of carrier concentrations of the formulations to calculate the solubility of TC. Our results demonstrated that increased concentrations ofβ-C yielded an improved solubility of TC, which was two times higher than pure TC. The uniformity in drug content was 97.99 %. A quicker drug release occurred from the binary complex formulation as seen in the dissolution profile. FTIR demonstrated an absence in the physicochemical interaction between the drug and carriers. The drug was also found to be dispersed in the amorphous state as revealed by DSC and XRD. The drug concentration did not vary during various storage conditions. Ourin vivostudies demonstrated that SD displayed significantly higher values ofCmax(p < 0.05) and AUC0-24(p < 0.05) as compared to free TC. Furthermore,Tmaxin SD was significantly lower (p < 0.05), as compared to free TC.
Optimization and Control on High Frequency Resonance of Train‐Network Coupling Systems
Authors: Zhang Jie , Shang Jing , Zhang Zhixue
Published: January 2019

With the wide application of the electrified railway, high frequency resonances in train‐network coupling system often occur, which not only affect the normal operation of trains but also seriously restrict the rapid development of electrified railway. However, the resonance mechanism has not been fully grasped and needs to be solved. First of all, this paper analyzed the new harmonic characteristics of mixed running of alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) trains in electrified railway. Then, the mechanism of high frequency resonance and the burnout failure reason of the resistor connected with capacitance (RC) branch in the dc train were analyzed. Simulations were carried out to find some basic conclusions and rules. Subsequently, this paper reproduced and analyzed a real case of high frequency resonance accidents of train‐network, burnout accident of RC branch of the dc train. Based on the above researches, optimized control methods to avoid the high frequency resonance were introduced. The achievement of this paper provides an important reference and theoretical basis for the comprehensive optimization and control of train‐network coupling systems and the resonance suppression measures.
Analysis of Strata Behavior Process Characteristics of Gob‐Side Entry Retaining with Roof Cutting and Pressure Releasing Based on Composite Roof Structure
Authors: He Manchao , Ma Xingen , Yu Bin
Published: January 2019

In order to explore the characteristics of rock pressure distribution with roof cutting and pressure releasing under different composite roof structures and optimize the support design of entry retaining, the mechanical analysis and numerical simulation are used to analyze the structure characteristics of composite roof and the effect of roof cutting under composite roof in this paper. Besides, taking the 8304 working face of Tashan Coal Mine as an example, the results of theoretical research are verified by field‐monitoring data of hydraulic supports, working resistance, and roadway deformation. The results show that the weak interlayer in the composite roof is easily damaged under the external force and the distribution of the layer has a key effect on the roof characteristics. When the weak interlayer is located at the middle of the roof cutting layer range, the demand of the roadway support strength is the highest; when the weak interlayer is located at the top of the roof cutting layer range, the demand of the roadway support strength is the lowest. Furthermore, with the increase of the height of the weak interlayer in the roof cutting layer range, the stress concentration peak of the coal wall side decreases first and then rises, then descends again, and the trend can be fitted by the curve of a three‐degree equation.
Mycosis Fungoides: Analysis of Ophthalmologic Findings in a Series of Cases
Authors: Colossi Carina G. , Mondadori Juliano , Barreto Pedro K. M. , Valença Felipe M. , Duquia Rodrigo , Vilela Manuel A. P.
Published: January 2019

Background. Ophthalmic findings in mycosis fungoides (MF) can be highly variable. It seems that the prevalence of ophthalmic findings could be much more common than previously assumed. Objective. To present case series examined in the last 12 months, together with a literature review. Methods. Symptomatic patients with biopsy-proven mycosis fungoides were examined ophthalmologically in a 12-month period. The medical records of affected patients were reviewed. Results. Eight patients were examined. Of these, 75% were male, all were Caucasian, and average age was 58.2 years. Blepharitis (50.0%), thickened eyelids (37.5%), and flaking (25.0%) were the most prevalent findings. Conclusion. Incidence of MF affecting the eyes and surrounding structures may be greater than estimated. Early case management offers means to reduce difficulties experienced with later diagnosis. Regular monitoring by an ophthalmologist is justified, including that of asymptomatic cases.
Simulation Optimization of Discrete Logistics Processes: A Case Study on Logistics of an E-Commerce Enterprise in Shanghai
Authors: Xu Xiang , Li Yue , Tang Ruiyun
Published: January 2019

With the rapid development of online shopping in recent years, logistics distribution has received much attention from enterprises and online consumers. Logistics distribution involves many factors and complex processes; conventional qualitative methods are unable to provide an effective analysis. Thus, this paper sets a framework to solve the above problem. A case study of an E-commerce enterprise in Shanghai on logistics distribution is proposed to discretize the whole process and minimize the total costs. Then the AnyLogic software is used to simulate and optimize the system from three aspects, including routes selection, warehouses quantity, and warehouses layout. Finally, this paper analyzes the simulation results, which would provide some valuable references for practical logistics.
45,X/46,XY Mosaicism and Normozoospermia in a Patient with Male Phenotype
Authors: Ketheeswaran Shathmigha , Alsbjerg Birgit , Christensen Preben , Gravholt Claus Højbjerg , Humaidan Peter
Published: January 2019

The phenotypic spectrum of 45,X/46,XY mosaic males varies greatly. Previous reports have only described cases with either oligozoospermia, growth retardation, or elevated gonadotropins. However, the present case presented with normozoospermia, and normal height, sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI), and gonadotropins. The male and his spouse were referred to The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, due to 2 years of infertility. After failure of several attempts of assisted reproductive treatment (ART), the male underwent genetic analysis. Conventional karyotyping in peripheral lymphocytes yielded a low-grade 45,X/46,XY mosaicism, confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) showing 6% 45,X cells. A FISH test performed on interphase nuclei from buccal mucosal cells yielded one cell with only one X-signal (0.6%), explaining the normal phenotype of the patient, but not the infertility. FISH test for sperm aneuploidy showed normal range parameters, except for a 10-fold elevated gonosomal nullisomy rate (2.1%). Hence, germinal mosaicism may be an explanation of the infertility of the case. Increased sex nullisomy levels may reflect an aberrant testicular environment compromising fertility even though sperm euploidy rates and other sperm parameters do not preclude a successful treatment with ART. Based on these results, the couple decided to use donor semen for their subsequent intrauterine insemination treatment and obtained a successful pregnancy.
Effects of Four Compounds from Gentianella acuta (Michx.) Hulten on Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Injury in H9c2 Cells
Authors: Ren Kai , Su He , Lv Li-juan , Yi Le-tai , Gong Xue , Dang Lian-sheng , Zhang Rui-fen , Li Min-hui
Published: January 2019

In previous studies, Gentianella acuta (Michx.) Hulten was reported to contain xanthones, iridoids, terpenoids, and sterols and is mainly used to cure hepatitis, jaundice, fever, headache, and angina pectoris. In this study, we used bioassay guided fractionation to identify compounds from G. acuta and investigated their activity against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced apoptosis of H9c2 cells using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. The levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic (GCLC) expression were assessed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Protein expression was evaluated using western blot. The results showed that all four compounds had protective effects on H9c2 cells. The transcription levels of HO-1 and GCLC significantly increased in H9c2 cells pretreated with norswertianolin (1), swetrianolin (2), demethylbellidifolin (3), and bellidifolin (4). However, compared to the model group, the transcription levels of Nrf2 were not enhanced by pretreatment with compounds 1, 2, and 4. The protein expression levels of HO-1 and GCLC in H9c2 cells were greater than that in the H2O2-treated group, and the expression of Nrf2 was not significantly changed except by swetrianolin treatment; inhibitors can reverse the protective effect by ZnPP (15 μM), BSO (10 μM), and brusatol (10 μM). The results indicated that the four compounds isolated from G. acuta inhibited the oxidative injury induced by H2O2 by activating the Nrf2/ARE pathway in H9c2 cells and provide evidence that G. acuta may be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Analysis on the Time‐Varying Fragility of Offshore Concrete Bridge
Authors: Liang Yan , Yan Jia-lei , Wang Jun-lei , Zhang Peng , He Bao-jie
Published: January 2019

For offshore bridges, the most prominent problem in the whole life cycle is that it is in an earthquake prone zone and an offshore corrosion environment at the same time. A nonlinear dynamic analysis model is set up for an offshore multispan and continuous rigid frame bridge based on the OpenSEES platform. The fragility surface of the bridge pier, bearing, bridge platform, and system are established by selecting a reasonable damage constitutive model of the material durability and a damage index analysis that studies the damage of the bridge durability to time‐varying seismic fragility of bridge components and the system of the whole life cycle in offshore environment. The results show that the durability damage will lead to a constant decline in seismic capacity of the pier and an increase of the seismic demand under earthquake action as well as the probability to reach the ultimate failure state; compared to high piers, a low pier is more vulnerable to the offshore corrosion environment; the seismic fragility of bridge platform is higher than that of simply bearing; and the influence of offshore corrosion on environment is relatively large. With the prolongation of service period, the effect of durability damage on the seismic fragility of bridge system cannot be ignored in the coastal environment and it is necessary to make a reasonable evaluation on the seismic fragility of bridge structure during the whole life period.
Single-Chain Variable Fragment Antibody of Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 as a Molecular Imaging Probe for Colitis Model Rabbit Investigation
Authors: Liu Chunbao , Zhou Jun , Cheng Xiaojie , Xia Liang , Zhou Junfen , Xu Shufang , Wang Yichun , Zhang Yongxue , Lu Diyu
Published: January 2019

Vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) can be a promising target for colitis study because of its critical role in inflammation development. Single-chain variable fragment (scFv) antibody presents fast blood clearance when served as an imaging probe. We applied the probe of 99mTc-scFv-VCAM-1 to colitis rabbit to examine its imaging performance. The colitis model rabbit was prepared, and a typical inflammatory lesion was confirmed in the colon. The probe of 99mTc-scFv-VCAM-1 was synthesized and injected into the model animal before imaging examination. Scintigraphy detected colitis lesions in both SPECT planar and SPECT/CT fused images, with higher target-to-nontarget ratios in the model group (2.71 ± 0.31) than those in the control group (1.12 ± 0.10). Biodistribution study determined tracer uptake in different organs, and autoradiography (ARG) confirmed probe accumulation in colon lesions. The uptake ratio of the model colon to the control colon was 4.71 ± 0.61 in quantitative analysis of the ARG regions of interest. Stronger VCAM-1 expression in the model colon than that in the control colon was confirmed by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Our imaging study indicates molecular imaging with scFv-VCAM-1 as a promising way for inflammatory bowel disease diagnosis and evaluation.