bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liver X Receptors Suppress Activity of Cholesterol and Fatty Acid Synthesis Pathways To Oppose Gammaherpesvirus Replication
Authors: Lange P. T. , Schorl C. , Sahoo D. , Tarakanova V. L.
Published: July 2018

Gammaherpesviruses are oncogenic pathogens that persist in ~95% of the adult population. Cellular metabolic pathways have emerged as important regulators of many viral infections, including infections by gammaherpesviruses that require several lipid synthetic pathways for optimal replication. Liver X receptors (LXRs) are transcription factors that are critical regulators of cellular fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis pathways. Not surprisingly, LXRs are attractive therapeutic targets in cardiovascular disease. Here we describe an antiviral role for LXRs in the context of gammaherpesvirus infection of primary macrophages. We show that type I interferon increased LXR expression following infection. Surprisingly, there was not a corresponding induction of LXR target genes. Rather, LXRs suppressed the expression of target genes, leading to decreased fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis, two metabolic pathways that support gammaherpesvirus replication. This report defines LXR-mediated restriction of cholesterol and lipid synthesis as an intrinsic metabolic mechanism to restrict viral replication in innate immune cells.

IMPORTANCE
Fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis pathways of the host play important roles in diverse biological systems. Importantly, these two metabolic pathways are also usurped by a number of viruses to facilitate viral replication. In this report, we show that suppression of these pathways by liver X receptors in primary macrophages creates an intrinsic antiviral state that attenuates gammaherpesvirus replication by limiting viral access to the two metabolic pathways.
Evaluation of a two-sample process for prevention of ABO mistransfusions in a high volume academic hospital
Authors: Glisch Chad , Jawa Zeeshan , Brener Alina , Carpenter Erica , Gottschall Jerome , Treml Angela , Karafin Matthew Scott
Published: July 2018

Background

Acute haemolytic transfusion reactions due to ABO incompatible blood transfusion remain a leading cause of transfusion-associated morbidity and mortality in the USA. Erroneous patient identification and specimen labelling account for many errors that lead to ABO mistransfusions; these errors are largely preventable.

Methods

Our hospital requires a two-sample process of ABO/Rh typing prior to transfusion. Both samples must be drawn independently. To prevent simultaneous sample draw, our second sample tube has a unique pink top that is only available from the blood bank and can only be sent to the patient’s floor once the first sample arrives in the lab. We performed an audit of this process from 19 March to 30 July 2014 and 19 March to 30 July 2015.

Results

We reviewed type and crossmatch orders for 2702 new patients during the audit period and 824 patients (30.5%) required transfusion. All patients evaluated received compatible blood, and no mistransfusions were recorded using this method. Three per cent of testing was performed incorrectly, which safely defaulted to giving type O blood.

Conclusions

The two-sample protocol used by our institution can decrease the risk of mistransfusion. Our protocol was relatively inexpensive, safe, efficient and practical for adaptation by other hospitals.
Exploring young women’s perspectives of a targeted support programme for teenage parents
Authors: McGeechan Grant James , Baldwin Michelle , Allan Keith , O’Neill Gillian , Newbury-Birch Dorothy
Published: July 2018

Context

Teenage parents and their children are at risk of poorer outcomes than older mothers, and their peers.

Objective

Evaluate participants' experiences of a targeted teenage parent support programme.

Design

A qualitative study was conducted to gain feedback from participants of a locally commissioned teenage parent support programme. Four focus groups were held with participants attending the programme in different areas of the county, and analysed using applied thematic analysis.

Participants

Teenage mothers aged 16–19 years from vulnerable backgrounds (n=18) attending a teenage parent support programme in County Durham.

Results

Two major themes emerged from the analysis focusing on factors influencing enrolment and continued engagement and how the programme leads to personal development for mother and child.The majority of participants felt that the group fostered a supportive environment and led to a reduction in social isolation. The provision of free transport and childcare onsite was seen as a key component of the service without which many would not have been able to attend.

Discussion

The programme appeared effective at increasing the emotional and social capabilities of teenage mothers. It had a positive impact on parents’ engagement in education and employment, as well as impacting on children’s social development.

Conclusions

Targeted support programmes have the ability to increase social and emotional capabilities of teenage mothers and their children. They can increase engagement in education and employment for teenage mothers. The provision of transport and free child care places can enhance engagement in such programmes.
Twenty years of management of care in Chile: what we know, what we do not know, what is yet to come. An analysis of arguments
Authors: Ayala Ricardo A
Published: July 2018

For over 20 years, the notion of ‘management of care’ has been foregrounded as key in the jurisdiction of the nursing profession, with the aim of detaching itself from the wider medical umbrella. A number of voices have advocated such centrality. These include juridical, academic and occupational perspectives. Critical stances, although peripheral, have also been voiced. These have been received, at best, with a ‘polite silence’ in mainstream circles.

By looking at the arguments surrounding the ‘management of care’ circulated in these two decades, this article reports the various forms of discursive practice that participate in the political process of autonomy building. Particularly, we focus on the validity of the arguments as well as the cohesionacrossarguments within the knowledge system. In doing so, we evaluate its main premises and foundations, the reach of the conceptualisation and its disjointed, differing and incomplete bases. Similarly, we used an inferential technique for the reconstruction of omitted and unexpressed assertions.

The article introduces an approach of the humanities that is seldom seen in healthcare. It also proposes a research agenda in regard to management of care for the upcoming decades.
It’s like another world: the perceived beneficial effects of an artistically designed multisensory environment
Authors: Cavanagh Bliss , Haracz Kirsti , Lawry Miranda , James Carole
Published: July 2018

Self-management strategies have been identified as having a key role in supporting mental health and preventing mental illness. Evidence suggests that spending time in nature, experiencing or viewing artwork and accessing sensory rooms all support self-management and positive mental health among varied clinical populations. This evidence informed the design of the sensory–art space (SAS), an artistically designed multisensory environment, which drew on themes and images of nature.

The aim of this study was to explore the experiences and perceived benefits of the SAS among members of a university community.

A maximum variation approach to sampling was used, and 18 participants were included in this qualitative study. Data were gathered via semi-structured interviews, which were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis.

The findings presented six themes. The two core themes were:it’s like another world, andeasy to focusand describe how the SAS produced the beneficial effects described in the four remaining themes of:emotionally nutritious,meditative effects,relaxationandtherapeutic.

Participants identified beneficial effects of the SAS that were consistent with the evidence for other self-management strategies. The identified benefits also aligned with existing theories suggesting that the SAS functioned as a restorative environment. This study is the first to explore the experience of art in a multisensory and multidimensional capacity, which further contributes to the growing field of receptive engagement with the arts for health outcomes.
Applying laterally varying density corrections to ground gravity and airborne gravity gradiometry data: a case study from the Bathurst Mining Camp
Authors: Tschirhart Peter , Morris William A. , Mims John , Ugalde Hernan
Published: July 2018

The influence of topography on gravity and gravity gradiometry measurements is profound and should be minimized prior to geological interpretation. The standard way of minimizing these effects is through the computation of a terrain correction. Terrain corrections require two inputs: topography and density. Often, geology and topography are inextricably intertwined: topography is caused by a change in geology. In geologic environments where there is a structural and (or) stratigraphic control on the near-surface mass distribution, using a single density value in the corrections leads to removal of the topographic effect of rocks having the chosen density. Any remaining gravity signal that correlates with topography is providing geological information. If the objective is to produce a gravity map with minimal topographic signal, then a regionally variable density correction is a means of compensating for this effect. In this paper, we demonstrate how to apply a spatially variable density correction using ground gravity and airborne gravity gradiometry data for the geologically complex Bathurst Mining Camp, northern New Brunswick, Canada. Ground gravity and airborne full tensor gravity gradiometry measurements are subdivided into a series of domains on the basis of the underlying tectonostratigraphic group. Terrain and Bouguer corrections are calculated for each domain using representative density values obtained from drill core and surface sampling throughout the Bathurst Mining Camp. The output from the spatially variable density correction is then compared with previous maps. Overall, the differences are subtle, but the spatially variably density allows for isolated anomalies to be better resolved.
Comparison of extraction methods for the characterization of extracellular polymeric substances from aggregates of three biofilm-forming phototrophic microorganisms
Authors: Loustau Emilie , Rols Jean-Luc , Leflaive Joséphine , Marcato-Romain Claire-Emmanuelle , Girbal-Neuhauser Elisabeth
Published: July 2018

This paper aims to define a robust procedure to extract extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) from aggregates of three benthic phototrophic microorganisms: the cyanobacterium Phormidium autumnale, the diatom Nitzschia palea, and the green alga Uronema confervicolum. This study focuses on the extraction efficiency of polysaccharide and protein EPS by using two physical methods (sonication, cation exchange resin) and three chemical methods (formamide, EDTA, Tween 20) with minimum cell lysis. Cell lysis was evaluated by monitoring chlorophyll a release. The results indicated that sonication or incubation of the algae aggregates with 0.25% Tween 20 induced a high level of cell lysis. A combined extraction approach, with an initial dispersing pretreatment (Ultra-Turrax, 13 500 r·min–1, 1 min), followed by formamide addition (0.22%) and then incubation with Dowex cation exchange resin (50 g per g of dry biomass), provided the highest amount of extracted EPS (mostly proteins), with low cell lysis. Furthermore, extracted EPS were characterized by size exclusion chromatography, and the obtained fingerprints revealed similar profiles for the three benthic microorganisms with a majority of low molecular weight polymers (400 to 11 300 Da). However, additional EPS of high (>600 000 Da) and intermediate (20 000 to 80 000 Da) molecular sizes were specifically detected in the diatom extracts.
Three-leg molecular transistors as molecular logic circuits: Design and modeling
Authors: Shokri Aliasghar , Safapour Saleh , Sabbaghi-Nadooshan Reza
Published: July 2018

The field of molecular electronics is a branch of science, which can have a variety of semiconductor technologies that extend beyond the silicon-based technology for the future. This branch of science may solve the limitations on size, high power usage and low speed in semiconductor technology. Rapid improvements in molecular electronics require modeling in the design of molecular devices. In this regard, we examine a three-leg molecule as a molecular transistor model and an indicator of methyl molecule as a resistance, in which the linkage of these abilities is carried out using LTspice simulation software. In order to investigate the effect of gated molecular on transport properties of the device, we design the half-adder molecular circuit and full-adder molecular circuit with them. The feasibility of building a prototype molecular transistor is illustrated using three-leg molecules directly contacted to gold electrodes, which the transmitted current from the structure is calculated using the Landauer formula. The application of the predicted results can be a base for designing moletronics devices.
Matrix models of strength distributions
Authors: Zamick Larry , Kingan Arun
Published: July 2018

In this work, we use matrix models to study the problem of strength distributions. This is motivated by noticing near exponential falloffs of strengths in calculated magnetic dipole excitations. We emphasize that the quality of the exponential falloffs depends on the parameters in our matrices, especially the relative size of the couplings to the unperturbed level separations. We also find a dark matrix for which all transitions vanish.
CHARACTERIZATION OF RUNNING-IN ATTRACTORS RECONSTRUCTED FROM FRICTION SIGNALS
Authors: ZHOU YUANKAI , ZUO XUE , ZHU HUA , FANG HAIFENG
Published: July 2018

Friction tests were conducted by sliding a ring against a disc under oil lubricated condition. The running-in attractor was generated from measured friction force, vibration and noise signals. On the basis of correlation dimension, predictability was introduced from chaos theory to characterize the running-in attractor. Two parameters, i.e. enclosing radius and average distance were proposed innovatively. The algorithms for the proposed parameters were given as well. Correlation dimension, predictability, enclosing radius and average distance were used to describe the complexity, randomness, bound and convergence degree of a running-in attractor, respectively. This study provides new parameters to quantify the running-in attractor and is meaningful for revealing the nonlinear property of the attractor.
COMPUTING AND VISUALIZING THREE-DIMENSIONAL QUASICRYSTALS
Authors: NOLAN JOSHUA D. , REITER CLIFFORD A.
Published: July 2018

In 1984, solid-state materials were discovered that had diffraction pattern symmetries that are forbidden for three-dimensional crystalline structures. The structures of these materials have become known as quasicrystals. A considerable literature has developed for both physical and mathematical quasicrystals. There are essentially three forms of mathematical three-dimensional quasicrystals. In this paper, we will develop computational techniques to construct these three forms of quasicrystals as point sets, and then organize those point sets in order to visualize patches of quasicrystals using parallelepipeds.
Nonexistence of noncompact Type-I ancient three-dimensional κ-solutions of Ricci flow with positive curvature
Authors: Hallgren Max
Published: July 2018

In this short paper, we show that there does not exist a noncompact Type-I [Formula: see text]-solution of the Ricci flow with positive curvature in dimension 3.
Fractional Korn and Hardy-type inequalities for vector fields in half space
Authors: Mengesha Tadele
Published: July 2018

We prove a fractional Hardy-type inequality for vector fields over the half space based on a modified fractional semi-norm. A priori, the modified semi-norm is not known to be equivalent to the standard fractional semi-norm and in fact gives a smaller norm, in general. As such, the inequality we prove improves the classical fractional Hardy inequality for vector fields. We will use the inequality to establish the equivalence of a space of functions (of interest) defined over the half space with the classical fractional Sobolev spaces, which amounts to prove a fractional version of the classical Korn’s inequality.
Capacity Estimation of Beam-Like Structures Using Substructural Method
Authors: Jamali Shojaeddin , Chan Tommy H. T. , Koo Ki-Young , Nguyen Andy , Thambiratnam David P.
Published: July 2018

Evaluating the performance of beam-like structures in terms of their current boundary conditions, stiffness and modal properties can be challenging as the structures behave differently from their designed conditions due to aging. The purpose of the current study is to determine the flexural rigidity of beam-like structures when their support conditions are not fully understood. A novel optimization scheme is proposed for estimation of the flexural stiffness and the capacity of the beam-like structures under moving loads. The proposed method is applied to various profiles of the beams made of different materials with unknown boundary conditions, and the effects of damage, excitation and optimization algorithm are rigorously investigated. The results of the numerical and experimental studies showed that the proposed substructural bending rigidity identification (SBI) method can correctly assess the in-service flexural stiffness, fixity of the boundary condition and the load-carrying capacity. This technique can be considered as a cost-effective method for periodic monitoring, load rating and model updating of the beam-like structures.
Rough sets on graphs: New dependency and accuracy measures
Authors: Chiaselotti G. , Gentile T. , Infusino F. G. , Tropeano F.
Published: July 2018

Attribute dependency and approximation accuracy measures are two fundamental notions in rough set and database theory. In this paper, we provide combinatorial closed formulas and asymptotic estimates for the attribute dependency and the approximation accuracy of some basic graph families. Actually, a finite simple undirected graph can be seen as a particular case of information table. This perspective can be assumed in a not unique way: in fact, in terms of information table, we can investigate a connected graph by means of its adjacency matrix or through its minimum vertex distance matrix. Having assumed both these two perspectives, we study the behavior of the attribute dependency and the approximation accuracy for some basic graph families and, above all, we provide an asymptotic estimate for two global averages obtained by means of the previous quantities.
Approximation algorithm for distance constraint sweep coverage without predetermined base stations
Authors: Chen Qingqing , Huang Xiaohui , Ran Yingli
Published: July 2018

In a sweep-coverage problem, each point of interest should be visited at least once by some mobile sensor every required time interval. Because of energy constraint, each mobile sensor has to visit a base station for replenishment before running out of its power. We model the problem as a distance constraint sweep-coverage problem the goal of which is to minimize the sum of the number of mobile sensors and the number of base stations used to meet the requirements. This paper presents an approximation algorithm with a guaranteed approximation ratio 7.
Nano Engineering of Artificial Granulocytes for Cancer Diagnosis and Therapeutics
Authors: Shi Donglu
Published: July 2018

The study of nanomedicine research, to date, has been concentrating on developing nanovectors for medical imaging, drug/gene delivery, and cell targeting, particularly in cancer diagnosis and therapeutics. Although quite successful in some areas, critical challenges remain, especially in the clinical settings. Some of the critical issues include delivery inefficiency, targeting non-specificity, and low uptake of theranostic-payloads by the cancerous lesions upon intravenous injection. Therefore, an alternative approach may be possible, via nanotechnology, by simulating some of the immune cells. In this Technical Note, we propose using specifically designed nanoparticles to simulate neutrophils that are capable of effective cancer cells targeting and killing without the complications in drug loading, biomarker conjugation, and assembly of chemical and physical therapeutic means. The simulated artificial cells mimic neutrophils, namely, granulocytes, according to their biological characteristics, for instance, positively-charged cell surfaces and the ability to release perferin upon binding onto the cancer cells leading to cytolysis. This Technical Note is intended to deliver a new concept in artificially-engineered granulocytes for cancer diagnosis and therapeutics.
Review of Classical Intention-Based Entrepreneurial Models and Construction of Framework from Combined Perspectives of Entrepreneurial Motivation and Cognition
Authors: Hou Fei , Ge Baoshan , Su Yu
Published: July 2018

An extraordinary proliferation of entrepreneurship education programs has been underway in recent years. One of the key purposes of entrepreneurship education is to foster entrepreneurial intention. So how to predict and interpret the process of entrepreneurial intention becomes a dominant topic in academia. Under related entrepreneurial and psychological theories, reasoning and reviewing related classical entrepreneurial intention models, this paper analyzes the influencing factors and interacting effects, and proposed a path-model of entrepreneurial intentions from combined perspectives of entrepreneurial motivation and cognition, in order to reveal the underlying psychological mechanism of entrepreneurial intention. The paper hopes to have added richness to ongoing further researches among academics and discusses among educators and policy-makers regarding the importance of entrepreneurial intention in entrepreneurial education.
Demand Sharing Inaccuracies in Supply Chains: A Simulation Study
Authors: Cannella Salvatore , Dominguez Roberto , Framinan Jose M. , Bruccoleri Manfredi
Published: July 2018

We investigate two main sources of information inaccuracies (i.e., errors and delays) in demand information sharing along the supply chain (SC). Firstly, we perform a systematic literature review on inaccuracy in demand information sharing and its impact on supply chain dynamics. Secondly, we model several SC settings using system dynamics and assess the impact of such information inaccuracies on SC performance. More specifically, we study the impact of four factors (i.e., demand error, demand delay, demand variability, and average lead times) using three SC dynamic performance indicators (i.e., bullwhip effect, inventory variability, and average inventory). The results suggest that demand error has a negative impact on SC performance, which is exacerbated by the magnitude of the error and by low demand variability scenarios. In contrast, demand delay produces a nonlinear behavior in the supply chain response (i.e., a short delay may have a negative impact and a long delay may have a positive impact), being influenced by the supply chain configuration.
Spinal Metastasis of Well-Differentiated Liposarcoma Component in Retroperitoneal Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma Treated by Minimally Invasive Surgery
Authors: Ichikawa Jiro , Ohba Tetsuro , Kanda Hiroaki , Fujita Koji , Ebata Shigeto , Haro Hirotaka
Published: July 2018

Case. Generally, well-differentiated liposarcoma (WDL) has recurrence potential but lacks metastatic potential. We present a rare case of spinal metastasis of WDL component in retroperitoneal dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDL) treated by tumor curettage and L1 laminectomy followed by percutaneous pedicle screw fixation. Histological examination showed metastasis of the WDL component of DDL. The patient was ambulatory until death. Conclusion. To our knowledge, no case of spinal metastasis of WDL component in retroperitoneal DDL has been reported. We should carefully consider characteristics of DDLs during treatment. Minimally invasive surgery may be a powerful tool in patients with spinal metastasis.
A Chebyshev Spectral Method with Null Space Approach for Boundary‐Value Problems of Euler‐Bernoulli Beam
Authors: Hsu C. P. , Hung C. F. , Liao J. Y.
Published: July 2018

We proposed a Chebyshev spectral method with a null space approach for investigating the boundary‐value problem of a nonprismatic Euler‐Bernoulli beam with generalized boundary or interface conditions. It is shown here that, with few vital improvements, a Chebyshev spectral collocation approach can be systematically applied to modeling nonprismatic Euler‐Bernoulli beams with eigenvalue embedded tip‐massed boundary conditions as well as the jump conditions that appear at the stepped interfaces. This study also presents a numerical stable asymptotic modal solution for the higher‐order modes of a partially clamped beam and show that the proposed approach validates the robust higher‐order modal solutions. Through a sequence of four increasingly complicated examples, using the proposed approach with higher‐order modes, generalized boundary conditions, and interface jump conditions of nonprismatic beams, the results are in excellent agreement with those reported in the literature using various other approaches.
Lessons from Randomised Clinical Trials for Triiodothyronine Treatment of Hypothyroidism: Have They Achieved Their Objectives?
Authors: Hoermann Rudolf , Midgley John E. M. , Larisch Rolf , Dietrich Johannes W.
Published: July 2018

Randomised controlled trials are deemed to be the strongest class of evidence in evidence-based medicine. Failure of trials to prove superiority of T3/T4 combination therapy over standard LT4 monotherapy has greatly influenced guidelines, while not resolving the ongoing debate. Novel studies have recently produced more evidence from the examination of homeostatic equilibria in humans and experimental treatment protocols in animals. This has exacerbated a serious disagreement with evidence from the clinical trials. We contrasted the weight of statistical evidence against strong physiological counterarguments. Revisiting this controversy, we identify areas of improvement for trial design related to validation and sensitivity of QoL instruments, patient selection, statistical power, collider stratification bias, and response heterogeneity to treatment. Given the high individuality expressed by thyroid hormones, their interrelationships, and shifted comfort zones, the response to LT4 treatment produces a statistical amalgamation bias (Simpson’s paradox), which has a key influence on interpretation. In addition to drug efficacy, as tested by RCTs, efficiency in clinical practice and safety profiles requires reevaluation. Accordingly, results from RCTs remain ambiguous and should therefore not prevail over physiologically based counterarguments. In giving more weight to other forms of valid evidence which contradict key assumptions of historic trials, current treatment options should remain open and rely on personalised biochemical treatment targets. Optimal treatment choices should be guided by strict requirements of organizations such as the FDA, demanding treatment effects to be estimated under actual conditions of use. Various improvements in design and analysis are recommended for future randomised controlled T3/T4 combination trials.
A New Error Prediction Method for Machining Process Based on a Combined Model
Authors: Zhou Wei , Zhu Xiao , Wang Jun , Ran Yan
Published: July 2018

Machining process is characterized by randomness, nonlinearity, and uncertainty, leading to the dynamic changes of machine tool machining errors. In this paper, a novel model combining the data processing merits of metabolic grey model (MGM) with that of nonlinear autoregressive (NAR) neural network is proposed for machining error prediction. The advantages and disadvantages of MGM and NAR neural network are introduced in detail, respectively. The combined model first utilizes MGM to predict the original error data and then uses NAR neural network to forecast the residual series of MGM. An experiment on the spindle machining is carried out, and a series of experimental data is used to validate the prediction performance of the combined model. The comparison of the experiment results indicates that combined model performs better than the individual model. The two-stage prediction of the combined model is characterized by high accuracy, fast speed, and robustness and can be applied to other complex machining error predictions.
Inactivation of Microbial Food Contamination of Plastic Cups Using Nonthermal Plasma and Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Kordová Tereza , Scholtz Vladimír , Khun Josef , Soušková Hana , Hozák Pavel , Čeřovský Miroslav
Published: July 2018

The inactivation effect of the combination of nonthermal plasma and hydrogen peroxide aerosol for the microbial decontamination of inner surface of cylindrical container buckets is studied on one bacterial and seven filamentous micromycete species and on airborne-contaminated cups. While the decontamination by single nonthermal plasma or hydrogen peroxide is not observable after 120 s, the strong decontamination by their combination occurs after 30 s of exposure. Moreover, observed total elimination of airborne contamination of plastic cups predetermines this method as a suitable alternative to the currently used method based on the application of hydrogen peroxide.
Multilayer Network‐Based Production Flow Analysis
Authors: Ruppert Tamás , Honti Gergely , Abonyi János
Published: July 2018

A multilayer network model for the exploratory analysis of production technologies is proposed. To represent the relationship between products, parts, machines, resources, operators, and skills, standardized production and product‐relevant data are transformed into a set of bi‐ and multipartite networks. This representation is beneficial in production flow analysis (PFA) that is used to identify improvement opportunities by grouping similar groups of products, components, and machines. It is demonstrated that the goal‐oriented mapping and modularity‐based clustering of multilayer networks can serve as a readily applicable and interpretable decision support tool for PFA, and the analysis of the degrees and correlations of a node can identify critically important skills and resources. The applicability of the proposed methodology is demonstrated by a well‐documented benchmark problem of a wire‐harness production process. The results confirm that the proposed multilayer network can support the standardized integration of production‐relevant data and exploratory analysis of strongly interconnected production systems.
An Efficient Estimator for Target Localization in a Multistation Redundancy System without Matrix Inversion
Authors: Zhang Xiwen , Huang Jiyan , Wang Yiyuan , Zhou Yineng
Published: July 2018

This paper focuses on target localization problem in a multistation redundancy system which finds broad applications in sonar, radar, and location-based service. Previous solutions can only be applied to the minimum system, such as the TOA method with three sensors and the AOA method with two sensors or need matrix inversion. To solve this problem, we propose a simple closed-form solution for a multistation redundancy localization system by using the estimation variance as the weighting coefficient to compute an average of each group’s localization result. The proposed method, with simple algebraic solution, requires no matrix inversion and can be used for low-cost hardware devices. We derive the method in TOA solution and AOA solution, respectively. The proposed method can also be extended to other locating technologies. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the performance of the proposed method in root-mean-square error. The positioning accuracy of the proposed method is close to Cramér-Rao low bound both in TOA solution and AOA solution.
The Role of Abnormal Methylation of Wnt5a Gene Promoter Regions in Human Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: A Clinical and Experimental Study
Authors: Jin Ping , Song Yi , Yu Guiyuan
Published: July 2018

Objective. In the current study, the role of abnormal methylation of Wnt5a gene promoter regions in human epithelial ovarian cancer was investigated. Methods. Wnt5a expressions were examined by immunohistochemistry in epithelial ovarian tissues (30 normal and 79 human EOC tissues). SKOV3 cells were treated with different concentrations of 5-Aza-CdR (0.5, 5, and 50 μmol/L). The methylation status of the Wnt5a promoter was analyzed using a methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP), and the expression level of Wnt5a mRNA was detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell proliferation was measured by MTT assay, and apoptosis was analyzed using flow cytometry. Results. (1) Compared with normal tissues, Wnt5a expressions were reduced or lost in EOC (P<0.05). Wnt5a expression had a close relationship with histological grade, FIGO stage, and lymph node metastasis (P=0.005, P=0.022, and P=0.037, resp.). (2) Wnt5a abnormal methylation status existed in ovarian cancer tissues and was higher than that of normal ovarian tissue (P<0.01). (3) Before treatment with 5-Aza-CdR, the promoter of the Wnt5a gene was methylated in SKOV3 cells; accordingly, Wnt5a mRNA levels were low to absent in SKOV3 cells. (4) Following 5-Aza-CdR treatment, MSP analysis revealed complete demethylation of the Wnt5a promoter in the SKOV3 cell line, particularly at 5 μmol/L 5-Aza-CdR. Wnt5a expression increased in SKOV3 cells following treatment with a demethylating agent (P≤0.001). (5) The growth rate of the cells was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner by treatment with 5-Aza-CdR. (6) The cell apoptosis rate increased gradually after treatment with 0.5, 5, and 50 μmol/L 5-Aza-CdR. The apoptosis rate exists in a dose-dependent relationship with 5-Aza-CdR concentration (F=779.73, P<0.01). Conclusions. Wnt5a gene region promoter aberrant methylation existed in epithelial ovarian cancer, and abnormal methylation of Wnt5a gene promoter regions may be a new target for the treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer.
Influence Factors Analysis of Provincial Divorce Rate Spatial Distribution in China
Authors: Su Liyun , Liang Changhai , Yang Xiaohe , Liu Yang
Published: July 2018

Divorce is the primary factor affecting the harmony and stability of the family and society. This paper uses spatial statistics to analyze the potential social causes of influencing the spatial distribution of divorce rates in various provinces of China. Firstly, the factors of social influence, family cohesion, and ethnic customs are constructed by factor analysis, then the spatial interaction effect of divorce rate in each province is brought into the model, and the spatial regression analysis of these three factors is carried out. The results show that social influence, especially the tertiary industry share of GDP, has a significant influence on the divorce rate, family cohesion has a distinct negative effect on the divorce rate, and ethnic customs have a noteworthy impact on the divorce rate. It is reflected in the high divorce rate of the majority of ethnic minority population, while, in the spatial data processing, the factor spatial lag model (FSLM) is better than the ordinary least square (OLS) regression model.
iTRAQ-Based Proteomics Analysis Reveals the Effect of Rhubarb in Rats with Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Lin Xiangping , Liu Tao , Li Pengfei , He Zehui , Zhong Yuanyuan , Cui Hanjin , Luo Jiekun , Wang Yang , Tang Tao
Published: July 2018

Background. Rhubarb, a traditional Chinese medicine, promotes viscera and remove blood stasis. Rhubarb is skilled in smoothening meridians, improving blood circulation which exhibits better efficacy on cerebral ischemic stroke. In this study, we aimed to analyze the underlying mechanisms of rhubarb which treated rats of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model according to an iTRAQ-based proteomics and bioinformatics analysis. 30 rats were randomly allocated into three groups including sham group (SG), model group (MG), and rhubarb group (RG). Rhubarb group was given a gavage of rhubarb decoction at dose of 3 g/kg and the remaining groups were prepared with normal saline by gavage. Rats from MG and RG were induced into MCAO model. The effects of rhubarb were estimated by Modified Neurological Severity Score (mNSS) and cerebral infarct volume. The brain tissues were measured via the quantitative proteomic approach of iTRAQ coupled to liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Furthermore, the bioinformatics analysis of overlapping differentially expression proteins (DEPs) was conducted by DAVID, KEGG, and Cytoscape. Specific selective DEPs were validated by Western blotting. Rats treated with rhubarb after MCAO showed a significant reduction on mNSS and cerebral infarct volume compared with MG. In MG versus SG and RG versus MG, we identified a total of 4578 proteins, of which 287 were DEPs. There were 76 overlapping DEPs between MG versus SG and RG versus MG. Through bioinformatics analysis, 14 associated pathways were searched including cGMP-PKG signaling pathway, tuberculosis, synaptic vesicle cycle, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, long-term potentiation, and so on. 76 overlapping DEPs mainly involved synaptic vesicle cycling biological processes based on GO annotation. Further, the selective overlapping DEPs were verified at the protein level by using Western blotting. Our present study reveals that rhubarb highlights promising neuroprotective effect. Rhubarb exerts novel therapeutic action via modulating multiple proteins, targets, and pathways.
MicroRNAs as Urinary Biomarker for Oncocytoma
Authors: von Brandenstein Melanie , Schlosser Monika , Herden Jan , Heidenreich Axel , Störkel Stefan , Fries Jochen W. U.
Published: July 2018

The identification of benign renal oncocytoma, its differentiation from malignant renal tumors, and their eosinophilic variants are a continuous challenge, influencing preoperative planning and being an unnecessary stress factor for patients. Regressive changes enhance the diagnostic dilemma, making evaluations by frozen sections or by immunohistology (on biopsies) unreliable. MicroRNAs (miRs) have been proposed as novel biomarkers to differentiate renal tumor subtypes. However, their value as a diagnostic biomarker of oncocytoma in urines based on mechanisms known in oncocytomas has not been exploited. We used urines from patients with renal tumors (oncocytoma, renal cell carcinoma: clear cell, papillary, chromophobe) and with other urogenital lesions. miRs were extracted and detected via qRT-PCR, the respective tumors analyzed by immunohistology. We found isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 upregulated in oncocytoma and oncocytic chromophobe carcinoma, indicating an increased Krebs cycle metabolism. Since we had shown that all renal tumors are stimulated by endothelin-1, we analyzed miRs preidentified by microarray after endothelin-1 stimulation of renal epithelial cells. Four miRs are proposed as presurgical urinary biomarkers due to their known regulatory mechanism in oncocytoma: miR-498 (formation of the oncocytoma-specific slice-form of vimentin, Vim3), miR-183 (associated with increased CO2 levels), miR-205, and miR-31 (signaling through downregulation of PKC epsilon, shown previously).
Optimizing Price of Credit Default Swaps for Dynamic Project System of Public-Private Partnership
Authors: Wu Ming , Lv Wenya , Sun Qiuji
Published: July 2018

Most project operations management belongs to the type of public-private partnership (PPP), which is usually dynamic. This paper aims to propose a method for optimizing the price of credit default swaps (CDS) for the dynamic PPP system. This study investigates the credit risk measurement of PPP project financing and the pricing of risk mitigation instruments which are widely used in the case of immature markets in the early stage of China’s PPP development. Based on the credit risk measurement theory of the corporate and debt ratings, this paper considers the differences in various credit enhancement methods in the equity-like debt agreement and determines the credit rating of the equity-like debt in PPP projects. Some optimization methods are also proposed to derive the probability of default, so as to determine the price of the credit risk mitigation instrument of CDS which is based on the equity-like debt.
Toeplitz Operators with Horizontal Symbols Acting on the Poly-Fock Spaces
Authors: Sánchez-Nungaray Armando , González-Flores Carlos , López-Martínez Raquiel Rufino , Arroyo-Neri Jorge Luis
Published: July 2018

We describe the C⁎-algebra generated by the Toeplitz operators acting on each poly-Fock space of the complex plane C with the Gaussian measure, where the symbols are bounded functions depending only on x=Re  z and have limit values at y=-∞ and y=∞. The C⁎ algebra generated with this kind of symbols is isomorphic to the C⁎-algebra functions on extended reals with values on the matrices of dimension n×n, and the limits at y=-∞ and y=∞ are scalar multiples of the identity matrix.
Novel TRAPPC11 Mutations in a Chinese Pedigree of Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Wang Xike , Wu Yue , Cui Yuxia , Wang Nan , Folkersen Lasse , Wang Yuchuan
Published: July 2018

Limb girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMDs) are a heterogeneous group of genetic myopathies leading primarily to proximal muscle weakness. It is caused by mutations at over 50 known genetic loci typically from mutations in genes encoding constituents of the sarcolemmal dystrophin complex or related functions. Herein we describe the case of two siblings with LGMD that were investigated using whole-exome sequencing followed by Sanger sequencing validation of a specific double-mutation in the TRAPPC11 gene. Further, from parental sequencing we determined the mode of transmission, a double heterozygous mutation at the maternal and paternal alleles. The two mutations detected have not been described in other patients.
New Silver Complexes with Mixed Thiazolidine and Phosphine Ligands as Highly Potent Antimalarial and Anticancer Agents
Authors: Mohd Sofyan Nur Rahimah Fitrah , Nordin Fariza Juliana , Mohd Abd Razak Mohd Ridzuan , Abdul Halim Syahrina Nur ‘Ain , Mohd Khir Nur Adila Fatin , Muhammad Amirrudin , Rajab Nor Fadilah , Sarip Rozie
Published: July 2018

Five silver(I) complexes containing a mixed ligand system of phosphine and thiazolidine were successfully synthesized. The structural information of the complexes was assembled using various spectroscopic techniques such as CHN elemental analysis, Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR), 1H, 13C, and 31P{1H} NMR spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). A bidentate phosphine ligand acted as a chelating agent which bond to the silver in 1 : 2 molar ratios. Meanwhile, thiazolidine was attached to the silver in a 1 : 1 molar ratio. The antiplasmodial properties of all synthesized complexes were investigated on chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum parasite via HRP2 assays and cytotoxicity tests on Vero cells. Of all the synthesized complexes, complex 2 showed the highest SI value (more than 12.4) followed by complex 5 (6.6). The potent properties of compounds 2 and 5 were also noted in the in vitro antiproliferative assays involving MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines as well as HT-29 colon cancer cell line. Complex 2 was selective for MDA-MB-231 cells (GI50 = 1.9 ± 0.3 µM), while complex 5 acted predominantly on breast carcinoma cells (GI50 MDA-MB-231 = 4.7 ± 1.1 µM; MCF-7 = 2.9 ± 0.9 µM) instead of colon carcinoma (HT-29) cells (GI50 = 15.1 ± 1.9 µM).
Thyroseq V3 Molecular Profiling for Tailoring the Surgical Management of Hürthle Cell Neoplasms
Authors: Pearlstein Sarah , Lahouti Arash H. , Opher Elana , Nikiforov Yuri E. , Kuriloff Daniel B.
Published: July 2018

Hürthle cell predominant thyroid nodules often confound the diagnostic utility of fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) with cytology often interpreted as a Hürthle cell lesion with an indeterminate risk of malignancy, Bethesda category (BC) III or IV. Molecular diagnostics for Hürthle cell predominant nodules has also been disappointing in further defining the risk of malignancy. We present a case of a slowly enlarging nodule within a goiter initially reported as benign on FNAB, BC II but on subsequent FNAB suspicious for a Hürthle cell neoplasm, BC IV. The patient had initially requested a diagnostic lobectomy for a definitive diagnosis despite a higher risk of malignancy based on the size of the nodule > 4 cm alone. To better tailor this patient’s treatment plan, a newer expanded gene mutation panel, ThyroSeq® v3 that includes copy number alterations (CNAs) and was recently found to have greater positive predictive value (PPV) for identifying Hürthle cell carcinoma (HCC), was performed on the FNAB material. Molecular profiling with ThyroSeq® v3 was able to predict a greater risk of carcinoma, making a more convincing argument in favor of total thyroidectomy. Surgical pathology confirmed a Hürthle cell carcinoma with 5 foci of angioinvasion and foci of capsular invasion.
High Ghrelin Level Predicts the Curve Progression of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Girls
Authors: Yu Hong-Gui , Zhang Hong-Qi , Zhou Zhen-Hai , Wang Yun-Jia
Published: July 2018

Background. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is common deformity with unknown cause. Previous studies have suggested the abnormal serum leptin and ghrelin level in AIS girls. The aim of present study was to evaluate whether the serum leptin and ghrelin level could serve as risk factor in predicting the curve progression in AIS girls. The associations between them and the physical characteristics were also investigated. Materials and Methods. Circulating leptin and ghrelin levels from 105 AIS girls and 40 age-matched non-AIS girls were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The correlations between ghrelin and leptin levels and growth-related parameters (age, weight, corrected height, corrected BMI, main Cobb angle, and Risser sign) were analyzed in AIS group. Multivariate logistic regression was used to investigate factors predicting curve progression in AIS girls. Results. A significantly lower leptin level (6.55 ± 2.88 vs. 8.01 ± 3.12 ng/ml, p < 0.05) and a higher ghrelin level (6.33 ± 2.46 vs. 4.46 ± 2.02 ng/ml, p < 0.05) were found in all AIS patients, as compared with normal controls. Curve progression patients had a higher ghrelin level than stable curve patients (7.61 ± 2.48 vs. 5.54 ± 2.11 ng/ml, p < 0.01); for leptin level, there was no significant difference between progression and stable group. The results of multivariate logistic stepwise regression showed that premenarche status, initial main Cobb magnitude that was more than or equal to 23°, high ghrelin level (≥7.30 ng/ml), and lower Risser grade (grades 0 to 2) were identified as risk factors in predicting curve progression. Ghrelin levels of >6.48 ng/ml were predictive for curve progression with 70.00 % sensitivity and 72.31 % specificity, and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.741 (95 % confidence interval 0.646-0.821). Conclusions. High ghrelin level may serve as a new quantitative indicator for predicting curve progression in AIS girls.