bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing the morphogenesis of galls induced byCalophya mammifex(Calophyidae) onSchinus polygama(Anacardiaceae) leaves
Authors: Guedes Lubia M. , Aguilera Narciso , Ferreira Bruno G. , Becerra José , Sáez Katia , Pérez Claudia , Hernández Victor , Isaias Rosy M.S.
Published: June 2018

Environment, plant, and gall-inducing insect genotypes are key factors in determining the morphogenesis of galls. However, the exact roles of these factors have not been clarified. We used anatomical and histochemical methods to evaluate the determining factors in the final structure of galls induced by Calophya mammifex on leaves of Schinus polygama (Cav.) Cabrera under the Mediterranean climate conditions of southern Chile. Also, we compared mature galls with those induced by the congeneric Calophya rubra on the same host plant. Calophya mammifex develops a univoltine life cycle and a diapause period in the Mediterranean climate conditions of southern Chile. Morphogenetic and histochemical leaf patterns were altered by C. mammifex feeding activity. For the first time, two specialized tissue compartments, a nutritive-like tissue and a common storage tissue, are reported for Calophyidae-induced galls in the Mediterranean region of southern Chile. Galls induced by C. mammifex and C. rubra have sufficient anatomical and histochemical alterations to be diagnosed as complex structures, whose distinction in vascular system differentiation implies structural constraints imposed by host plant organs.
Lithostratigraphy of the upper Turinian – lower Chatfieldian (Upper Ordovician) foreland succession, and a U–Pb ID–TIMS date for the Millbrig volcanic ash bed in the Ottawa Embayment
Authors: Oruche Nkechi E. , Dix George R. , Kamo Sandra L.
Published: June 2018

Three stages of carbonate-platform development are preserved in the upper Turinian – lower Chatfieldian succession of the Ottawa Group in the Ottawa Embayment and represent deposition along the Late Ordovician Taconic foreland interior of paleo-southern Laurentia. Compared with contemporary stratigraphy in the adjacent northern Appalachian (southern Ontario, New York state) and western Quebec basins, the intermediate Stage 2 succession, which brackets the Turinian–Chatfieldian boundary, preserves embayment-specific stratigraphic patterns. These include: (i) dramatic west-to-east thickening of the upper Turinian Watertown Formation that defines differential subsidence along the present axis of the embayment, (ii) post-Watertown base-level fall defined by appearance of shoreface siliciclastics, (iii) early Chatfieldian marine transgression represented by the proposed L’Orignal Formation that is coeval with but lithologically distinct from the Selby Formation in the northern Appalachian Basin, and (iv) platform segmentation that resulted in a depositional mosaic of shallow banks (Rockland Formation) and equivalent deeper water mico-seaways (lower Hull Formation). The latter event immediately follows accumulation of the Millbrig bentonite, here dated at 453.36 ± 0.38 Ma. Bracketing these local stratigraphic patterns are the bounding stages (1 and 3) represented by the upper Turinian Lowville Formation and middle Chatfieldian Hull Formation, respectively, that contain facies attributes in common with the adjacent basins and characterize inter-regional depositional systems of first warm, then cooler oceanographic conditions. Stage 2 identifies a structurally controlled transition between these end-member stages: a far-field response in the foreland interior, localized along the axis of a late Precambrian fault system, to contemporary change in subsidence rates and tectonomagmatic events along the Laurentian margin.
The canonical spectrum of projective toric manifolds
Authors: hajli Mounir
Published: June 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be a complex projective toric manifold. We associated to [Formula: see text], a positive and closed [Formula: see text]-current called the canonical toric Kähler current of [Formula: see text] denoted by [Formula: see text], and a new invariant called the canonical spectrum of [Formula: see text]. This spectrum is obtained as the set of the eigenvalues of a singular Laplacian defined by [Formula: see text] and which is described uniquely by the combinatorial structure of [Formula: see text]. The construction of this Laplacian and the study of its spectral properties are the consequence of a generalized spectral theory of Laplacians on compact Kähler manifolds that we develop in this paper.
CORRIGENDUM: “PRICING AND VALUATION UNDER THE REAL-WORLD MEASURE”
Authors: FRAHM GABRIEL
Published: June 2018

In order to prove the third fundamental theorem of asset pricing for financial markets with infinite lifetime [G. Frahm (2016) Pricing and valuation under the real-world measure, International Journal of Theoretical and Applied Finance 19, 1650006], we shall assume that the discounted price process is locally bounded. Otherwise, some principal results developed by [F. Delbaen & W. Schachermayer (1997) The Banach space of workable contingent claims in arbitrage theory, Annales de l’Institut Henri Poincaré 1, 114–144] cannot be applied.
Finite solvable groups with exactly two nonlinear nonfaithful irreducible characters
Authors: Li Yali
Published: June 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be a solvable, nonnilpotent and directly indecomposable finite group. Suppose [Formula: see text] has exactly two nonlinear nonfaithful irreducible characters [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we classify the finite groups that satisfy these properties with [Formula: see text].
Noncovalently copper-porphyrin functionalized reduced graphene oxide for sensitive electrochemical detection of dopamine
Authors: Huang Dong-Lan , Wang Jian , Yuan Hui-Qing , Guo Hui-Shi , Ying Xiao , Zhang Hao , Liu Hai-Yang
Published: June 2018

The nanocomposite of an electron-deficient flat tetrakis-(ethoxycarbonyl) porphyrin copper(II) (Cu-TECP) and reduced grapheme oxide (RGO) was prepared and used for electrochemical detection of dopamine (DA). The prepared nanocomposite was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Electrochemical studies of the modified glass carbon electrode (GCE) were carried out by the cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammograms (DPV) methods. The RGO/Cu-TECP/GCE exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic activity towards the detection of dopamine (DA). The detection limit was 0.58 μM, while the linear range was from 2 to 200 μM ([Formula: see text] 0.997).
Nonconforming Finite Elements Based on Nitsche-Type Mortaring for Inhomogeneous Wave Equation
Authors: Kaltenbacher Manfred , Floss Sebastian
Published: June 2018

We propose the nonconforming Finite Element (FE) method based on Nitsche-type mortaring for efficiently solving the inhomogeneous wave equation, where due to the change of material properties the wavelength in the subdomains strongly differs. Therewith, we gain the flexibility to choose for each subdomain an optimal grid. The proposed method fulfills the physical conditions along the nonconforming interfaces, namely the continuity of the acoustic pressure and the normal component of the acoustic particle velocity. We apply the nonconforming grid method to the computation of transmission loss (TL) of an expansion chamber utilizing micro-perforated panels (MPPs), which are modeled by a homogenization approach via a complex fluid. The results clearly demonstrate the superiority of the nonconforming FE method over the standard FE method concerning pre-processing, mesh generation flexibility and computational time.
Inversion of Taconian extensional structures during Paleozoic orogenesis in western Newfoundland
Authors: White Shawna E. , Waldron John W. F.
Published: June 2018

West Newfoundland was critical in developing the Wilson Cycle concept. Neoproterozoic rifting established a passive margin adjacent to the Iapetus Ocean. Ordovician (Taconian) arc–continent collision emplaced ophiolites and the thin-skinned Humber Arm Allochthon. Subsequent Devonian (Acadian) ocean closure produced basement-cutting thrust faults that control the present-day distribution of units. New mapping, and aeromagnetic and seismic interpretation, around Parsons Pond enabled the recognition of structures in poorly exposed areas.

Following Cambrian to Middle Ordovician passive-margin deposition, Taconian deformation produced a flexural bulge unconformity. Subsequent extensional faults shed localized conglomerate into the foreland basin. The Humber Arm Allochthon contains a series of stacked and folded duplexes, typical of thrust belts. To the east, the Parsons Pond Thrust has transported shelf and foreland-basin units
c.
8 km westwards above the allochthon. The Long Range Thrust shows major topographical expression but <1 km offset. Stratigraphic relationships indicate that most thrusts originated as normal faults, active during Neoproterozoic rifting, and subsequently during Taconian flexure. Devonian continental collision inverted the Parsons Pond and Long Range thrusts. Basement-cored fault-propagation folds in Newfoundland are structurally analogous to basement uplifts in other orogens, including the Laramide Orogen in western USA. Similar deep-seated inversion structures may extend through the northern Appalachians.
Sustainability Standards: Interactions Between Private Actors, Civil Society, and Governments
Authors: Lambin Eric F. , Thorlakson Tannis
Published: June 2018

New partnerships between governments, private companies, and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are reshaping global environmental governance. In particular, there has been a rise of voluntary sustainability standards in an attempt to manage social and environmental impacts of global supply chains. We analyze the large spectrum of interactions between private, public, and civil society actors around voluntary sustainability standards, primarily for tropical agriculture and forestry. This review uncovers a policy ecosystem dominated by a proliferation of standards that complement, substitute, or compete against each other, with coordination mechanisms beginning to arise. Contrary to widely held views, interactions between governments, NGOs, and private companies surrounding the adoption of sustainable practices are not generally antagonistic, and public and private environmental governance regimes rarely operate independently. The influence of these interactions on the effectiveness of sustainability standards needs more attention. Better understanding how private regulations interact with the policy ecosystem will help design more effective interventions.
Campaign Finance Disclosure
Authors: Wood Abby K.
Published: June 2018

Campaign finance disclosure is the last (somewhat) robust regulation we have in American campaign finance, and it is under threat. We urgently need more research on disclosure. Regulatory complexity makes studying campaign finance disclosure daunting. It also creates so-called dark money and anonymous speech online. Scholars must understand the existing regulatory loopholes as they plan studies to avoid biased estimates and understand the conditions in which their results generalize to a broader population. The court's disclosure jurisprudence is thin and based on largely unproven assumptions. As the research on campaign finance disclosure matures, scholars should take a broad view of the costs and benefits of disclosure, rather than the narrow, court-led focus many studies have had until now. We must also take seriously the ways in which cognitive limitations can limit the benefits of disclosure. I explain the doctrine and review existing studies, highlighting opportunities to expand the literature.
Notch1 regulates endothelial apoptosis via the ERK pathway in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Zong Dandan , Li Jinhua , Cai Shan , He Shengdong , Liu Qingqing , Jiang Jiehan , Chen Shanshan , Long Yingjiao , Chen Yan , Chen Ping , Ouyang Ruoyun
Published: June 2018

The Notch signaling pathway plays critical role for determining cell fate by controlling proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. In the current study, we investigated the roles of the Notch signaling pathway in cigarette smoke (CS)-induced endothelial apoptosis in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We obtained surgical specimens from 10 patients with COPD and 10 control participants. Notch1, 2, and 4 express in endothelial cells, whereas Notch3 mainly localizes in smooth muscle cells. Compared with control groups, we found that the expression of Notch1, 3, and 4 decreased, as well as their target genes Hes1 and Hes2, while the expression of Notch2 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 increased in COPD patients compared with controls, as well as in human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMECs) when exposed to CS extract (CSE). Overexpression of Notch1 with N1ICD in HPMECs markedly alleviated the cell apoptosis induced by CSE. The ERK signaling pathway was significantly activated by CSE, which correlated with CSE-induced apoptosis. However, this activation can be abolished by N1ICD overexpression. Furthermore, treatment of PD98059 (ERK inhibitor) significantly alleviated CSE-induced apoptosis, as well as reduced the methylation of mitochondrial transcription factor A (mtTFA) promoter, which was correlated with CS-induced endothelial apoptosis. These results suggest that CS alters Notch signaling in pulmonary endothelial cells. Notch1 protects against CS-induced endothelial apoptosis in COPD through inhibiting the ERK pathway, while the ERK pathway further regulates the methylation of mtTFA promotor.
Effectiveness of Traditional Healers in Program to Control Leprosy in Nagan Raya District in Aceh
Authors: Alamsyah Teuku , Usman Said , Yusuf Mutia , Elvin Said Devi
Published: June 2018

Aceh Province had the highest rate of leprosy in Indonesia; in 2014, 436 new Multibacillary cases were reported. Nagan Raya was the District in Aceh with the highest number of cases; new cases in 2015 comprised 26 with Paucibacillary (PB) and 21 with Multibacillary (MB) with a total of 4.26% with Grade II disability. The phenomena of handling and treatment by the people in Nagan Raya involve treatment by traditional healers,“Tabib”, to treat the leprosy, with treatments known asPeundanglocally. The purpose of this study was to find out and to take steps to improve the effectiveness of the Tabib in controlling leprosy in Nagan Raya. The main object of this study, which used a quasi-experimental design, was to find out and to improve the treatment of leprosy patients by the Tabib who treat them there. Data was gathered using a questionnaire with an interview and the intervention was to provide training and a pocket book about leprosy and how to detect, control, and manage it there and the role that the Tabib can play in controlling leprosy in the future. The results of the study showed that there was a significant difference in knowledge about leprosy between the EG (Experimental Group) Tabib after they got the training including the pocket book and the Tabib in the Control Group (CG); i.e., that did not get any training nor the pocket book. Furthermore, after the training, there was also a significant difference in the attitude towards leprosy between the EG and the CG of Tabib. There was also a significant difference in the future role of the Tabibs to control the spread of leprosy between the EG and the CG. Based on these results, it is hoped that the District Health Department can implement a partnership model with the Tabib in Nagan Raya (and elsewhere) to use the pocket book with training to implement a program to control the spread of leprosy and also to always support the Tabib to improve their role in controlling and eliminating leprosy amongst the village people.
A Lightweight Intrusion Detection Method Based on Fuzzy Clustering Algorithm for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Qu Hongchun , Lei Libiao , Tang Xiaoming , Wang Ping
Published: June 2018

For resource-constrained wireless sensor networks (WSNs), designing a lightweight intrusion detection technology has been a hot and difficult issue. In this paper, we proposed a lightweight intrusion detection method that was able to directly map the network status into sensor monitoring data received by base station, so that base station can sense the abnormal changes in the network. Our method is highlighted by the fusion of fuzzy c-means algorithm, one-class SVM, and sliding window procedure to effectively differentiate network attacks from abnormal data. Finally, the proposed method was tested on the wireless sensor network simulation software EXata and in real applications. The results showed that the intrusion detection method in this paper could effectively identify whether the abnormal data came from a network attack or just a noise. In addition, extra energy consumption can be avoided in all sensor monitoring nodes of the sensor network where our method has been deployed.
The Influence of Backpack Weight and Hip Belt Tension on Movement and Loading in the Pelvis and Lower Limbs during Walking
Authors: Oberhofer Katja , Wettenschwiler Patrick D. , Singh Navrag , Ferguson Stephen J. , Annaheim Simon , Rossi Rene M. , Lorenzetti Silvio
Published: June 2018

The introduction of hip belts to backpacks has caused a shift of loading from the spine to the hips with reported improvements in musculoskeletal comfort. Yet the effects of different hip belt tensions on gait biomechanics remain largely unknown. The goal of this study was to assess the influence of backpack weight and hip belt tension on gait biomechanics. Data from optical motion capture and ground reaction forces (GRF) during walking were acquired in nine healthy male subjects (age 28.0 ± 3.9 years). Six configurations of a commercial backpack were analyzed, that is, 15 kg, 20 kg, and 25 kg loading with 30 N and 120 N hip belt tension. Joint ranges of motion (ROM), peak GRF, and joint moments during gait were analyzed for significant differences by repeated measures of ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc comparison. Increased loading led to a significant reduction of knee flexion-extension ROM as well as pelvis rotational ROM. No statistically significant effect of hip belt tension magnitudes on gait dynamics was found at any backpack weight, yet there was a trend of increased pelvis ROM in the transverse plane with higher hip belt tension at 25 kg loading. Further research is needed to elucidate the optimum hip belt tension magnitudes for different loading weights to reduce the risks of injury especially with higher loading.
Evaluation of Oxidative Stress and Mitophagy during Adipogenic Differentiation of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Isolated from Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) Horses
Authors: Marycz Krzysztof , Weiss Christine , Śmieszek Agnieszka , Kornicka Katarzyna
Published: June 2018

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are frequently used in both human and veterinary medicine because their unique properties, such as modulating the immune response and differentiating into multiple lineages, make them a valuable tool in cell-based therapies. However, many studies have indicated the age-, lifestyle-, and disease-related deterioration of MSC regenerative characteristics. However, it still needs to be elucidated how the patient’s health status affects the effectiveness of MSC differentiation. In the present study, we isolated mesenchymal stem cells from adipose tissue (adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs)) from horses diagnosed with equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), a common metabolic disorder characterized by pathological obesity and insulin resistance. We investigated the metabolic status of isolated cells during adipogenic differentiation using multiple research methods, such as flow cytometry, PCR, immunofluorescence, or transmission and confocal microscopy. The results indicated the impaired differentiation potential of ASCEMS. Excessive ROS accumulation and ER stress are most likely the major factors limiting the multipotency of these cells. However, we observed autophagic flux during differentiation as a protective mechanism that allows cells to maintain homeostasis and remove dysfunctional mitochondria.
Anticancer Activity of Sulforaphane: The Epigenetic Mechanisms and the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Su Xuling , Jiang Xin , Meng Lingbin , Dong Xiaoming , Shen Yanjun , Xin Ying
Published: June 2018

Sulforaphane (SFN), a compound derived from cruciferous vegetables that has been shown to be safe and nontoxic, with minimal/no side effects, has been extensively studied due to its numerous bioactivities, such as anticancer and antioxidant activities. SFN exerts its anticancer effects by modulating key signaling pathways and genes involved in the induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and inhibition of angiogenesis. SFN also upregulates a series of cytoprotective genes by activating nuclear factor erythroid‐2‐ (NF‐E2‐) related factor 2 (Nrf2), a critical transcription factor activated in response to oxidative stress; Nrf2 activation is also involved in the cancer‐preventive effects of SFN. Accumulating evidence supports that epigenetic modification is an important factor in carcinogenesis and cancer progression, as epigenetic alterations often contribute to the inhibition of tumor‐suppressor genes and the activation of oncogenes, which enables cells to acquire cancer‐promoting properties. Studies on the mechanisms underlying the anticancer effects of SFN have shown that SFN can reverse such epigenetic alterations in cancers by targeting DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), histone deacetyltransferases (HDACs), and noncoding RNAs. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss the anticancer activities of SFN and its mechanisms, with a particular emphasis on epigenetic modifications, including epigenetic reactivation of Nrf2.
Spatiotemporal Exploration and Hazard Mapping of Tropical Cyclones along the Coastline of China
Authors: Zhong Shaobo , Wang Chaolin , Yu Zhichen , Yang Yongsheng , Huang Quanyi
Published: June 2018

Spatiotemporal patterns are one of the greatest interests and provide valuable insights into chronological events occurring in space. A tropical cyclone (TC) track is defined as a sequence of successive points, and several different types of analyses are performed to explore the temporal and spatial patterns of the TCs in the Northwest Pacific and along the coastline of China during 1949–2014. Results show that (1) the number of TCs is getting more frequent from April to August and less frequent from August to October with the peak occurring in August almost every year; (2) the mean of the sizes of the annual temporal clusters during 1949–2014 is 52.5 (days), the standard deviation is 17.0 (days), and the average starting point is the 210.5th day; (3) the spatial clusters are located in two areas: the boundary of Guangxi and Guangdong provinces and the boundary of Fujian and Zhejiang provinces; and (4) the within-strata variance is less than the between-strata variance, which implies the locational and seasonal factors are the potential determinants of the heterogeneity of the TCs. Furthermore, several maps representing the hazards of TCs are produced. According to the resultant maps, 12 coastal prefectures (Zhanjiang, Maoming, Fuzhou, Huizhou, Yangjiang, Qinzhou, Ningde, Quanzhou, Jiangmen, Nanning, Zhangzhou, and Hangzhou) have return periods of less than two years, and the two island provinces of Hainan and Taiwan are visited by TCs the most. Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, and Zhejiang provinces in particular suffered severely from the destructive TCs.
Everyday Activities for Children with Mitochondrial Disorder: A Retrospective Chart Review
Authors: Lindenschot Marieke , de Groot Imelda J. M. , Koene Saskia , Satink Ton , Steultjens Esther M. J. , Nijhuis-van der Sanden Maria W. G.
Published: June 2018

Background. Engagement in everyday activities is important for the health and wellbeing of children. Children with mitochondrial disorders have impaired energy production leading to limitations in activity. It is unknown which activities these children perform and if the nature of activities of low-functioning children differs from average-functioning children. Therefore, this pilot study explored the activities reported in patient records of a heterogeneous group of children with genetically confirmed mitochondrial disorders. Methods. A retrospective qualitative directed content analysis by health care professionals reported activities (as part of their professional reasoning obligations) in hospital patient records of children with mitochondrial disorder. Results. Seventeen patient records, presenting notes on capacities and performed activities, showed an overview of everyday activities that covered the categories: self-care, house chores, therapy, school, computing, hobby, play, sports, and mobility/transport. The activity categories of low-functioning children did not differ from average-functioning children, although descriptions of specific activities differed between groups. Conclusion. This pilot exploration indicates that the types of activities that children with mitochondrial disorders perform are not necessarily linked to the child’s impairments. However, differences in levels of independence, assistive device usage, and energy costs seem to exist. Future research should address the child’s perspective on, and meaning of, activity performances.
Comparative Evaluation of Radioiodine and Technetium-Labeled DARPin 9_29 for Radionuclide Molecular Imaging of HER2 Expression in Malignant Tumors
Authors: Vorobyeva Anzhelika , Bragina Olga , Altai Mohamed , Mitran Bogdan , Orlova Anna , Shulga Alexey , Proshkina Galina , Chernov Vladimir , Tolmachev Vladimir , Deyev Sergey
Published: June 2018

High expression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) in breast and gastroesophageal carcinomas is a predictive biomarker for treatment using HER2-targeted therapeutics (antibodies trastuzumab and pertuzumab, antibody-drug conjugate trastuzumab DM1, and tyrosine kinase inhibitor lapatinib). Radionuclide molecular imaging of HER2 expression might permit stratification of patients for HER2-targeting therapies. In this study, we evaluated a new HER2-imaging probe based on the designed ankyrin repeat protein (DARPin) 9_29. DARPin 9_29 was labeled with iodine-125 by direct radioiodination and with [99mTc]Tc(CO)3 using the C-terminal hexahistidine tag. DARPin 9_29 preserved high specificity and affinity of binding to HER2-expressing cells after labeling. Uptake of [125I]I-DARPin 9_29 and [99mTc]Tc(CO)3-DARPin 9_29 in HER2-positive SKOV-3 xenografts in mice at 6 h after injection was 3.4 ± 0.7 %ID/g and 2.9 ± 0.7 %ID/g, respectively. This was significantly (p<0.00005) higher than the uptake of the same probes in HER2-negative Ramos lymphoma xenografts, 0.22 ± 0.09 %ID/g and 0.30 ± 0.05 %ID/g, respectively. Retention of [125I]I-DARPin 9_29 in the lung, liver, spleen, and kidneys was appreciably lower compared with [99mTc]Tc(CO)3-DARPin 9_29, which resulted in significantly (p<0.05) higher tumor-to-organ ratios. The biodistribution data were confirmed by SPECT/CT imaging. In conclusion, radioiodine is a preferable label for DARPin 9_29.
An Artificial Intelligence Method for Asphalt Pavement Pothole Detection Using Least Squares Support Vector Machine and Neural Network with Steerable Filter‐Based Feature Extraction
Authors: Hoang Nhat-Duc
Published: June 2018

This study establishes an artificial intelligence (AI) model for detecting pothole on asphalt pavement surface. Image processing methods including Gaussian filter, steerable filter, and integral projection are utilized for extracting features from digital images. A data set consisting of 200 image samples has been collected to train and validate the predictive performance of two machine learning algorithms including the least squares support vector machine (LS‐SVM) and the artificial neural network (ANN). Experimental results obtained from a repeated subsampling process with 20 runs show that both LS‐SVM and ANN are capable methods for pothole detection with classification accuracy rate larger than 85%. In addition, the LS‐SVM has achieved the highest classification accuracy rate (roughly 89%) and the area under the curve (0.96). Accordingly, the proposed AI approach used with LS‐SVM can be very potential to assist transportation agencies and road inspectors in the task of pavement pothole detection.
The Genetic Diversity and Geographic Differentiation of the Wild Soybean in Northeast China Based on Nuclear Microsatellite Variation
Authors: Zhao Hongkun , Wang Yumin , Xing Fu , Liu Xiaodong , Yuan Cuiping , Qi Guangxun , Guo Jixun , Dong Yingshan
Published: June 2018

In this study, the genetic diversity and population structure of 205 wild soybean core collections in Northeast China from nine latitude populations and nine longitude populations were evaluated using SSR markers. A total of 973 alleles were detected by 43 SSR loci, and the average number of alleles per locus was 22.628. The mean Shannon information index (I) and the mean expected heterozygosity were 2.528 and 0.879, respectively. At the population level, the regions of 42°N and 124°E had the highest genetic diversity among all latitudes and longitudes. The greater the difference in latitude was, the greater the genetic distance was, whereas a similar trend was not found in longitude populations. Three main clusters (1N, <41°N-42°N; 2N, 43°N-44°N; and 3N, 45°N–>49°N) were assigned to populations. AMOVA analysis showed that the genetic differentiation among latitude and longitude populations was 0.088 and 0.058, respectively, and the majority of genetic variation occurred within populations. The Mantel test revealed that genetic distance was significantly correlated with geographical distance (r=0.207,p<0.05). Furthermore, spatial autocorrelation analysis showed that there was a spatial structure (ω=119.58,p<0.01) and the correlation coefficient (r) decreased as distance increased within a radius of 250 km.
Oscillatory Tip Leakage Flows and Stability Enhancement in Axial Compressors
Authors: Lin Feng , Chen Jingyi
Published: June 2018

Rotating stall axial compressor is a difficult research field full of controversy. Over the recent decades, the unsteady tip leakage flows had been discovered and confirmed by several research groups independently. This paper summarizes the research experience on unsteady tip leakage flows and stability enhancement in axial flow compressors. The goal is to provide theoretical bases to design casing treatments and tip air injection for stall margin extension of axial compressor. The research efforts cover (1) the tip flow structure at near stall that can explain why the tip leakage flows go unsteady and (2) the computational and experimental evidences that demonstrate the axial momentum playing an important role in unsteady tip leakage flow. It was found that one of the necessary conditions for tip leakage flow to become unsteady is that a portion of the leakage flow impinges onto the pressure side of the neighboring blade near the leading edge. The impediment of the tip leakage flow against the main incoming flow can be measured by the axial momentum balance within the tip range. With the help of the theoretical progress, the applications are extended to various casing treatments and tip air recirculation.
Standardized Uptake Values Derived from18F-FDG PET May Predict Lung Cancer Microvessel Density and Expression of KI 67, VEGF, and HIF-1αbut Not Expression of Cyclin D1, PCNA, EGFR, PD L1, and p53
Authors: Surov Alexey , Meyer Hans Jonas , Wienke Andreas
Published: June 2018

Background. Our purpose was to provide data regarding relationships between18F-FDG PET and histopathological parameters in lung cancer.Methods. MEDLINE library was screened for associations between PET parameters and histopathological features in lung cancer up to December 2017. Only papers containing correlation coefficients between PET parameters and histopathological findings were acquired for the analysis. Overall, 40 publications were identified.Results. Associations between SUV and KI 67 were reported in 23 studies (1362 patients). The pooled correlation coefficient was 0.44. In 2 studies (180 patients), relationships between SUV and expression of cyclin D1 were analyzed (pooled correlation coefficient = 0.05). Correlation between SUV and HIF-1αwas investigated in 3 studies (288 patients), and the pooled correlation coefficient was 0.42. In 5 studies (310 patients), associations between SUV and MVD were investigated (pooled correlation coefficient = 0.54). In 6 studies (305 patients), relationships between SUV and p53 were analyzed (pooled correlation coefficient = 0.30). In 6 studies (415 patients), associations between SUV and VEGF expression were investigated (pooled correlation coefficient = 0.44). In 5 studies (202 patients), associations between SUV and PCNA were investigated (pooled correlation coefficient = 0.32). In 3 studies (718 patients), associations between SUV and expression of PD L1 were analyzed (pooled correlation coefficient = 0.36). Finally, in 5 studies (409 patients), associations between SUV and EGFR were investigated (pooled correlation coefficient = 0.38).Conclusion. SUV may predict microvessel density and expression of VEGF, KI 67, and HIF-1αin lung cancer.
On Carlitz’s Type Modified Degenerate q-Changhee Polynomials and Numbers
Authors: Kim Byung Moon , Jang Lee-Chae , Kim Wonjoo , Kwon Hyuck-In
Published: June 2018

Recently, Dolgy-Jang-Kwon-Kim introduced Carlitz’s type q-Changhee polynomials. In this paper, we define Carlitz’s type modified degenerate q-Changhee polynomials and investigate some interesting identities of these polynomials.
Multiple Free Internal Limiting Membrane Flap Insertion in the Treatment of Macular Hole-Associated Retinal Detachment in High Myopia
Authors: Chen San-Ni , Hsieh Yi-Ting , Yang Chung-May
Published: June 2018

Purpose: The aim of this paper was to evaluate the efficacy of multiple free internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap insertion in the management of macular hole-associated retinal detachment in high myopia. Procedures: Eyes receiving operation for macular hole-associated retinal detachment were retrospectively recruited. Those in the study group received ILM peeling and multiple free ILM flap insertion, while those in the control group received ILM peeling only. Postoperative anatomical outcomes and best-corrected visual acuity were compared between the 2 groups. Results: Twenty-seven eyes of 27 patients were recruited in this study (13 in the study group, 14 in the control group). After the operation, the retina was reattached in all cases in both groups. The macular hole closure rate was 100% in the study group but only 42.9% in the control group (adjusted p < 0.001). The eyes in the study group had better visual improvement (logMAR –0.58 ± 0.43) than those in the control group (logMAR –0.31 ± 0.50) with borderline significance (adjusted p = 0.078). Conclusions: For macular hole-associated retinal detachment in highly myopic eyes, the multiple free ILM flap insertion technique offers an effective way to close macular holes. Whether this result also means better visual outcome remains to be seen.
The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis and the Fetus
Authors: Morsi Amr , DeFranco Donald , Witchel Selma F.
Published: June 2018

Glucocorticoids (GCs), cortisol in humans, influence multiple essential maturational events during gestation. In the human fetus, fetal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function, fetal adrenal steroidogenesis, placental 11β- hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 activity, maternal cortisol concentrations, and environmental factors impact fetal cortisol exposure. The beneficial effects of synthetic glucocorticoids (sGCs), such as dexamethasone and betamethasone, on fetal lung maturation have significantly shifted the management of preterm labor and threatened preterm birth. Accumulating evidence suggests that exposure to sGCs in utero at critical developmental stages can alter the function of organ systems and that these effects may have sequelae that extend into adult life. Maternal stress and environmental influences may also impact fetal GC exposure. This article explores the vulnerability of the fetal HPA axis to endogenous GCs and exogenous sGCs.
Influence of Surfactants and Fluoride against Enamel Erosion
Authors: Zanatta Rayssa Ferreira , Ávila Daniele Mara da Silva , Miyamoto Karen Mayumi , Torres Carlos Rocha Gomes , Borges Alessandra Bühler
Published: June 2018

This study investigated the effect of surfactants associated with sodium fluoride (NaF) on enamel erosion prevention, using an erosion-remineralization in vitro model. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), polysorbate 20 (P20), and cocoamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) were tested, at concentrations of 1.0 and 1.5%, and associated or not with NaF (275 ppm). The control groups were distilled water and the NaF solution. Bovine enamel samples (n = 12) were prepared and submitted to a 5-day cycling model: acid challenge (0.3% citric acid, pH 2.6, 4×/day), human saliva (2 h, 4×/day), and the treatment solutions (2 min, 2×/day). The protective potential of the agents against initial erosion was assessed by microhardness and the surface loss by profilometry. Enamel surface wettability was determined by goniometry, protein adsorption was measured by spectroscopy (FTIR), and the KOH-soluble fluoride was quantified. Goniometry showed that SLS and CAPB increased enamel wettability. No differences were found among the surfactants regarding protein adsorption. Microhardness showed that SLS reduced NaF protection. P20 (1 and 1.5%) and CAPB 1.5% presented a protective effect, but lower than the NaF solution. Profilometry showed that CAPB protected enamel, but no agent associated with NaF promoted a higher protection than the NaF solution alone. KOH-soluble fluoride analysis showed that all surfactants reduced the fluoride adsorption on the enamel surface. Therefore, the surfactants tested (except for P20) changed the enamel surface energy. The SLS decreased the protective potential of NaF on initial erosion, but no tested agent interfered with the protective effect of NaF on enamel erosive wear.
Increased Susceptibility to Allergic Asthma with the Impairment of Respiratory Tolerance Caused by Psychological Stress
Authors: Kawano Tasuku , Ouchi Ryusuke , Ishigaki Takahiro , Masuda Chiaki , Miyasaka Tomomitsu , Ohkawara Yuichi , Ohta Nobuo , Takayanagi Motoaki , Takahashi Tomoko , Ohno Isao
Published: June 2018

Background: Bronchial asthma is characterized by type 2 T helper (Th2) cell inflammation, essentially due to a breakdown of immune tolerance to harmless environmental allergens. Etiologically, experiences of psychological stress can be associated with a heightened prevalence of asthma. However, the mechanisms underlying stress-related asthma development are unclear. In this study, we examined whether psychological stress increases susceptibility to allergic asthma by downregulating immune tolerance. Methods: Female BALB/c mice were sensitized with ovalbumin/alum, followed by ovalbumin inhalation. Ovalbumin inhalation induced immune tolerance before sensitization occurred. Some mice were exposed to restraint stress during tolerance induction or sensitization. Asthma development was evaluated by airway responsiveness, inflammation, cytokine expression, and IgE synthesis. Sensitization was evaluated by measuring proliferation and cytokine production by splenocytes. The effects of stress exposure on the numbers and functions of dendritic cells and regulatory T (Treg) cells in bronchial lymph nodes and spleens were evaluated. To investigate the role of endogenous glucocorticoid in inhibiting immune tolerance after stress exposure, we examined the effects of (i) a glucocorticoid-receptor antagonist administered prior to stress exposure, and (ii) exogenous gluco­corticoid (instead of stress exposure). Results: Asthmatic responses and Th2-biased sensitization, which were suppressed in tolerized mice, re-emerged in tolerized mice stressed during tolerance induction in association with decreased tolerogenic dendritic and Treg cell numbers. The effects of stress exposure on tolerized mice were abolished by administering a glucocorticoid-receptor antagonist and reproduced by administering exogenous glucocorticoid without stress. Conclusions: Our findings suggested that psychological stress can potentially increase allergic asthma susceptibility by inhibiting immune tolerance.
Fluoride Binding to Dental Biofilm Bacteria: Synergistic Effect with Calcium Questioned
Authors: Nóbrega Diego Figueiredo , Leitão Tarcísio Jorge , Cury Jaime Aparecido , Tenuta Livia Maria Andaló
Published: June 2018

It has been suggested that fluoride binding to dental biofilm is enhanced when more bacterial calcium binding sites are available. However, this was only observed at high calcium and fluoride concentrations (i.e., when CaF2 precipitation may have occurred). We assessed fluoride binding to Streptococcus mutans pellets treated with calcium and fluoride at concentrations allowing CaF2 precipitation or not. Increasing calcium concentration resulted in a linear increase (p < 0.01) in fluoride concentration only in the pellets in which CaF2 precipitated. The results suggest that CaF2 precipitation, rather than bacterially bound fluoride, is responsible for the increase in fluoride binding to dental biofilm with the increase in calcium availability.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for the Management of Suicidal Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ducasse Déborah , Jaussent Isabelle , Arpon-Brand Véronique , Vienot Marina , Laglaoui Camelia , Béziat Séverine , Calati Raffaella , Carrière Isabelle , Guillaume Sébastien , Courtet Philippe , Olié Emilie
Published: June 2018

Background: The management of suicidal crisis remains a major issue for clinicians, driving the development of new strategies to improve suicide prevention. Methods: We conducted a randomized controlled trial comparing a 7-week acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) versus relaxation group, as adjunct to treatment as usual for adult outpatients suffering from a current suicidal behavior disorder. The primary outcome was the rate of change in the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale suicidal ideation subscore (adding severity and intensity subscores). Secondary outcomes were the rates of change for depressive symptomatology, psychological pain, anxiety, hopelessness, anger, quality of life, and therapeutic processes. Assessments were performed in the 2 weeks preceding the beginning of the treatment (pretreatment assessment), and within 1 week (posttherapy assessment) and 3 months (follow-up assessment) after therapy completion. Results: Forty adults were included and randomized. The rate of change in ACT for suicidal ideation at the posttherapy assessment was higher than in the relaxation group (β [SE] = –1.88 [0.34] vs. –0.79 [0.37], respectively; p = 0.03). ACT effectiveness remained stable at the 3-month follow-up. We found a similar pattern of change for depressive symptomatology and anxiety, psychological pain, hopelessness, anger, and quality of life. Therapeutic processes improved more in the ACT group than in the relaxation group. Treatment adherence was high in the ACT group, all participants reported satisfaction with the program. Conclusions: Through its effectiveness in reducing suicidal ideation and improving the clinical dimensions associated with suicidal risk in patients suffering from a suicidal behavior disorder, ACT could be developed as an adjunctive strategy in programs for suicide prevention.
Adaptations for Substrate Gleaning in Bats: The Pallid Bat as a Case Study
Authors: Razak Khaleel A.
Published: June 2018

Substrate gleaning is a foraging strategy in which bats use a mixture of echolocation, prey-generated sounds, and vision to localize and hunt surface-dwelling prey. Many substrate-gleaning species depend primarily on prey-generated noise to hunt. Use of echolocation is limited to general orientation and obstacle avoidance. This foraging strategy involves a different set of selective pressures on morphology, behavior, and auditory system organization of bats compared to the use of echolocation for both hunting and navigation. Gleaning likely evolved to hunt in cluttered environments and/or as a counterstrategy to reduce detection by eared prey. Gleaning bats simultaneously receive streams of echoes from obstacles and prey-generated noise, and have to segregate these acoustic streams to attend to one or both. Not only do these bats have to be exquisitely sensitive to the soft, low frequency sounds produced by walking/rustling prey, they also have to precisely localize these sounds. Gleaners typically use low intensity echolocation calls. Such stealth echolocation requires a nervous system that is attuned to low intensity sound processing. In addition, landing on the ground to hunt may bring gleaners in close proximity to venomous prey. In fact, at least 2 gleaning bat species are known to hunt highly venomous scorpions. While a number of studies have addressed adaptations for echolocation in bats that hunt in the air, very little is known about the morphological, behavioral, and neural specializations for gleaning in bats. This review highlights the novel insights gleaning bats provide into bat evolution, particularly auditory pathway organization and ion channel structure/function relationships. Gleaning bats are found in multiple families, suggesting convergent evolution of specializations for gleaning as a foraging strategy. However, most of this review is based on recent work on a single species – the pallid bat (Antrozous palli dus) – symptomatic of the fact that more comparative work is needed to identify the mechanisms that facilitate gleaning behavior.
Breathlessness and Restrictive Lung Disease: An Important Diabetes-Related Feature in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Kopf Stefan , Groener Jan B. , Kender Zoltan , Fleming Thomas , Brune Maik , Riedinger Christin , Volk Nadine , Herpel Esther , Pesta Dominik , Szendrödi Julia , Wielpütz Mark O. , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Katus Hugo A. , Kreuter Michael , Nawroth Peter P.
Published: June 2018

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a significant comorbidity of interstitial lung disease (ILD). Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of restrictive lung disease (RLD) and ILD in patients with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods: Forty-eight nondiabetics, 68 patients with prediabetes, 29 newly diagnosed T2D, and 110 patients with long-term T2D were examined for metabolic control, diabetes-related complications, breathlessness, and lung function. Five participants with T2D, breathlessness, and RLD underwent multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) and a Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Lung tissue from 4 patients without diabetes and from 3 patients with T2D was histologically examined for presence of pulmonary fibrosis. Results: Breathlessness in combination with RLD was significantly increased in patients with prediabetes and T2D (p < 0.01). RLD was found in 9% of patients with prediabetes, in 20% of patients with newly diagnosed T2D, and in 27% of patients with long-term T2D. Thus, patients with long-term T2D had an increased risk of RLD (OR 5.82 [95% CI 1.71–20.5], p < 0.01). RLD was significantly associated with glucose metabolism and albuminuria (p < 0.01); furthermore, presence of nephropathy increased the risk of RLD (OR 8.57 [95% CI 3.4–21.9], p < 0.01) compared to nondiabetics. MDCT revealed ILD in 4 patients, the 6MWT correlated with the extent of ILD, and histological analysis showed fibrosing ILD in patients with T2D. Conclusions: This study demonstrates increased breathlessness and a high prevalence of RLD in patients with T2D, indicating an association between diabetes and fibrosing ILD.