bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of meso-diarylamino group of porphyrins on optical and electrochemical properties
Authors: Higashino Tomohiro , Fujimori Yamato , Nishimura Issei , Imahori Hiroshi
Published: June 2019

Introduction of an electron-donating meso-diarylamino group into a porphyrin core affords its broadened and red-shifted absorption and raises the HOMO level of the porphyrin. In this regard, porphyrins with multiple meso-diarylamino groups are expected to show unique optical and electrochemcial properties depending on the number of the meso-diarylamino groups. Herein, we report a series of porphyrins with a different number of the meso-diarylamino groups. They were prepared by the iodine(III)-mediated oxidative amination reaction of the corresponding meso-free porphyrins. With increasing the number of the meso-diarylamino groups, both red shifts and broadening in the absorption and negative shifts in the oxidation potential were observed. Notably, the oxidation potential of the porphyrin with four meso-diarylamino groups is comparable to that of tetrathiafulvalene, which is one of representative electron donors, suggesting the potential utility of multiply meso-aminated porphyrins as hole-transporting materials and as electron donors forming charge-transfer complexes with electron acceptors. We believe that this study sheds light on porphyrins with multiple electron-donating groups as organic functional materials.
Biomedical applications of Jones-matrix tomography to polycrystalline films of biological fluids
Authors: Ushenko V. A. , Sdobnov A. Yu. , Mishalov W. D. , Dubolazov A. V. , Olar O. V. , Bachinskyi V. T. , Ushenko A. G. , Ushenko Yu. A. , Wanchuliak O. Ya. , Meglinski I.
Published: June 2019

Algorithms for reconstruction of linear and circular birefringence-dichroism of optically thin anisotropic biological layers are presented. The technique of Jones-matrix tomography of polycrystalline films of biological fluids of various human organs has been developed and experimentally tested. The coordinate distributions of phase and amplitude anisotropy of bile films and synovial fluid taken from the knee joint are determined and statistically analyzed. Criteria (statistical moments of 3rd and 4th orders) of differential diagnostics of early stages of cholelithiasis and septic arthritis of the knee joint with excellent balanced accuracy were determined. Data on the diagnostic efficiency of the Jones-matrix tomography method for polycrystalline plasma (liver disease), urine (albuminuria) and cytological smears (cervical cancer) are presented.
Effective Implementation of Value Engineering Using Artificial Neural Network Aid of Optimization Techniques
Authors: Swarup M. Prem , Kumar A. Prabhu
Published: June 2019

Value Engineering (VE) is a method for characterizing the developed requirements of a product, and it is concerned with the selection of less excessive conditions. VE can understand and improve the optimal outcome such as quantity, security, unwavering quality and convertibility of each managerial unit. It is an incredible solving tool that can diminish costs while preserving or improving performance and quality requirements. In this research work, VE is presented to calculate the heating cost and cooling cost of the air conditioner with the assistance of an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) with an optimization model. This ANN model effectively chooses the maximum number of sources obtainable and the source respective method with low functional cost and energy consumption. For improving the prediction accuracy of VE in the ANN model, we have incorporated some training algorithms and optimized the network hidden layer and hidden neuron by Opposition Genetic Algorithm (OGA). From the results, trained ANN with OGA predicts the output with 96.02% accuracy and also minimum errors compared with the existing GA process.
Online Submodular Maximization with Preemption
Authors: Buchbinder Niv , Feldman Moran , Schwartz Roy
Published: June 2019

Submodular function maximization has been studied extensively in recent years under various constraints and models. The problem plays a major role in various disciplines. We study a natural online variant of this problem in which elements arrive one by one and the algorithm has to maintain a solution obeying certain constraints at all times. Upon arrival of an element, the algorithm has to decide whether to accept the element into its solution and may preempt previously chosen elements. The goal is to maximize a submodular function over the set of elements in the solution.

We study two special cases of this general problem and derive upper and lower bounds on the competitive ratio. Specifically, we design a 1/
e
-competitive algorithm for the unconstrained case in which the algorithm may hold any subset of the elements, and constant competitive ratio algorithms for the case where the algorithm may hold at most
k
elements in its solution.
Coding Scheme Optimization for Fast Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging
Authors: Lee Jongho , Chacko Jenu Varghese , Dai Bing , Reza Syed Azer , Sagar Abdul Kader , Eliceiri Kevin W. , Velten Andreas , Gupta Mohit
Published: June 2019

Fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) is used for measuring material properties in a wide range of applications, including biology, medical imaging, chemistry, and material science. In frequency-domain FLIM (FD-FLIM), the object of interest is illuminated with a temporally modulated light source. The fluorescence lifetime is measured by computing the correlations of the emitted light with a demodulation function at the sensor. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and the acquisition time of a FD-FLIM system is determined by the coding scheme (modulation and demodulation functions). In this article, we develop theory and algorithms for designing high-performance FD-FLIM coding schemes that can achieve high SNR and short acquisition time, given a fixed source power budget. Based on a geometric analysis of the image formation and noise model, we propose a novel surrogate objective for the performance of a given coding scheme. The surrogate objective is extremely fast to compute, and can be used to efficiently explore the entire space of coding schemes. Based on this objective, we design novel, high-performance coding schemes that achieve up to an order of magnitude shorter acquisition time as compared to existing approaches. We demonstrate the performance advantage of the proposed schemes in a variety of imaging conditions, using a modular hardware prototype that can implement various coding schemes.
A Novel Rule Mapping on TCAM for Power Efficient Packet Classification
Authors: Vegesna S. M. Srinivasavarma , Nara Ashok Chakravarthy , Sk Noor Mahammad
Published: June 2019

Packet Classification is the enabling function performed in commodity switches for providing various services such as access control, intrusion detection, load balancing, and so on. Ternary Content Addressable Memories (TCAMs) are the de facto standard for performing packet classification at high speeds. However, TCAMs are highly costlier both in terms of cost and power consumption, forcing the switch vendors towards placing lots of effort for power management. Hence, power-efficient solutions for TCAM-based packet classification are highly relevant even today. In this article, we propose a novel rule placement algorithm based on the unique field values’ presence within the rule databases. We evaluate the total search that is needed to be inspected with respect to the traditional placement approach and the proposed placement approach based on the information content within the fields. Simulation results showed an average reduction of 30.55% in the search space by the proposed placement approach, thereby resulting in an average reduction of 18.85% per search energy over TCAM. With typical TCAM clock speeds ranging between 200--400MHz, this reduction in the per-search energy maps to a huge reduction in the total energy consumed by the TCAM-based network switches. The proposed solution is plug-and-play type requiring only minimal pre-processing within the Network Processing Unit (NPU) of the switches and edge routers.
Cometary Chemistry and the Origin of Icy Solar System Bodies: The View AfterRosetta
Authors: Altwegg Kathrin , Balsiger Hans , Fuselier Stephen A.
Published: June 2019

In situ research of cometary chemistry began when measurements from the Giotto mission at Comet 1P/Halley revealed the presence of complex organics in the coma. New telescopes and space missions have provided detailed remote and in situ measurements of the composition of cometary volatiles. Recently, the Rosetta mission to Comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko (67P) more than doubled the number of parent species and the number of isotopic ratios known for comets. Forty of the 71 parent species have also been detected in pre- and protostellar clouds. Most isotopic ratios are nonsolar. This diverse origin is in contrast to that of the Sun, which received its material from the bulk of the collapsing cloud. The xenon isotopic ratios measured in 67P can explain the long-standing question about the origin of terrestrial atmospheric xenon. These findings strengthen the notion that comets are indeed an important link between the ISM and today's solar system including life on Earth. ▪ Nonsolar isotopic ratios for species such as Xe, N, S, and Si point to a nonhomogenized protoplanetary disk from which comets received their material. ▪ The similarity of the organic inventories of comets and presolar and protostellar material makes it plausible that this material was accreted almost unaltered by comets from the presolar stage. ▪ Large variations in the deuterium-to-hydrogen ratio in water for comets indicate a large range in the protoplanetary disk from which comets formed. ▪ The amount of organics delivered by comets to Earth may be highly significant.
Agglomeration: Economic and Environmental Impacts
Authors: Wu JunJie
Published: June 2019

Urbanization is taking place at an unprecedented pace and scale in China, India, and many other emerging economies. This will have profound impacts on the world economy and environment. This review provides a critical assessment of the current understanding of the intertwined relationships between agglomeration, economic growth, and environmental quality. We start by providing a brief overview of the extensive literature on the drivers of agglomeration and its economic impact. We then discuss the opposing views on the environmental impact of agglomeration and illustrate the trade-offs involved when choosing among different levels and forms of agglomeration. Finally, we discuss challenges for environmental management in a rapidly urbanizing economy and some lessons learned from history and experiences of urban development and their policy implications. The review concludes with a discussion of key knowledge gaps and future research directions.
Life on the Edge: Geminiviruses at the Interface Between Crops and Wild Plant Hosts
Authors: García-Arenal Fernando , Zerbini Francisco Murilo
Published: June 2019

Viruses constitute the largest group of emerging pathogens, and geminiviruses (plant viruses with circular, single-stranded DNA genomes) are the major group of emerging plant viruses. With their high potential for genetic variation due to mutation and recombination, their efficient spread by vectors, and their wide host range as a group, including both wild and cultivated hosts, geminiviruses are attractive models for the study of the evolutionary and ecological factors driving virus emergence. Studies on the epidemiological features of geminivirus diseases have traditionally focused primarily on crop plants. Nevertheless, knowledge of geminivirus infection in wild plants, and especially at the interface between wild and cultivated plants, is necessary to provide a complete view of their ecology, evolution, and emergence. In this review, we address the most relevant aspects of geminivirus variability and evolution in wild and crop plants and geminiviruses’ potential to emerge in crops.
A Connectivity Weighting DV_Hop Localization Algorithm Using Modified Artificial Bee Colony Optimization
Authors: Chen Tianfei , Sun Lijun
Published: June 2019

Node localization is a fundamental issue in wireless sensor network (WSN), as many applications depend on the precise location of the sensor nodes (SNs). Among all localization algorithms, DV_Hop is a typical range-free localization algorithm characterized by such advantages as simple realization and low energy cost. From detailed analysis of localization error for the basic DV_Hop algorithm, we propose a connectivity weighting DV_Hop localization algorithm using modified artificial bee colony optimization. Firstly, the proposed algorithm calculates the average hop distance (AHD) of anchor nodes in terms of the minimum mean squared distance error between the estimated distances of anchor nodes and the corresponding actual distances from them. After that, a connectivity weighting method, considering the influence from both local network properties of anchor nodes and the distances from anchor nodes to unknown nodes, is designed to obtain the AHD of unknown nodes. In addition, we set up the weighting calculation proportion of anchor nodes at the same time. Finally, a modified artificial bee colony algorithm which enlarges searching space is used to optimize the execution of multilateral localization. The experimental results demonstrate that the connectivity weighting approach has better localization effect, and the AHD of unknown nodes close to true value can be obtained at a relatively large probability. Moreover, the modified artificial bee colony algorithm can reduce the probability of premature convergence, and thus the localization accuracy is further improved.
Oxidative Stress Induced by the Deubiquitinase Inhibitor b-AP15 Is Associated with Mitochondrial Impairment
Authors: Zhang Xiaonan , Espinosa Belén , Saei Amir Ata , D'Arcy Padraig , Zubarev Roman A. , Linder Stig
Published: June 2019

Inhibitors of the 20S proteasome such as bortezomib are cytotoxic to tumor cells and have been proven to be valuable for the clinical management of multiple myeloma. The therapeutic efficacy of bortezomib is, however, hampered by the emergence of acquired resistance. Available data suggest that blocking proteasome activity at the level of proteasome-associated deubiquitinases (DUBs) provides a mechanism to overcome resistance to bortezomib and also to other cancer therapies. The small molecule b-AP15 is an inhibitor of proteasome-associated DUB activity that induces both proteotoxic stress and increases in the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in tumor cells. Antioxidants have been shown to decrease apoptosis induction by b-AP15 and we here addressed the question of the mechanism of redox perturbation by this compound. We show that oxidative stress induction by b-AP15 is abrogated in cells deprived of mitochondrial DNA (ρ0cells). We also show associations between the level of proteotoxic stress, the degree of mitochondrial dysfunction, and the extent of induction of hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1), a target of the redox-regulated Nrf-2 transcription factor. Decreased expression of COX5b (cytochrome c oxidase subunit 5b) and TOMM34 (translocase of outer mitochondrial membrane 34) was observed in b-AP15-treated cells. These findings suggest a mitochondrial origin of the increased levels of ROS observed in cells exposed to the DUB inhibitor b-AP15.
Experimental Investigation of Decontamination Factor Dependence on Aerosol Concentration in Pool Scrubbing
Authors: Sun Haomin , Sibamoto Yasuteru , Okagaki Yuria , Yonomoto Taisuke
Published: June 2019

Because a pool scrubbing is important for reducing radioactive aerosols to the environment for a nuclear reactor in a severe accident situation, many researches have been performed. However, decontamination factor (DF) dependence on aerosol concentration was seldom considered in an aerosol number concentration with limited aerosol coagulation. To investigate an existence of DF dependence on the concentration, DF in a pool scrubbing with 2.4 m water submergence was derived from aerosol measurements by light scattering aerosol spectrometers. It was observed that DF increased monotonically with decreasing particle number concentration in a constant thermohydraulic condition: a gradual increase from 10 to 32 in the range of 1.3×1011 - 8.0×1011/m3 at the inlet and a significant increase from 32 to 77 in the range of 3.6×1010 - 1.3×1011/m3. Two validation experiments were conducted in the range with the gradual DF increase to confirm whether the DF dependence is a real pool scrubbing phenomenon. In addition, characteristics of the DF dependence in different water submergences were investigated experimentally. It was found that the DF dependence became more significant in higher water submergence. Significant DF dependence was observed in the condition of the water submergence higher than 1.6 m and the inlet particle number concentration less than around 1×1011 /m3. It is recommended to perform further analysis for the DF dependence mainly in such condition since it could make a difference to both experiment and model of the pool scrubbing.
Seeking Best-Balanced Patch-Injecting Strategies through Optimal Control Approach
Authors: Huang Kaifan , Li Pengdeng , Yang Lu-Xing , Yang Xiaofan , Tang Yuan Yan
Published: June 2019

To restrain escalating computer viruses, new virus patches must be constantly injected into networks. In this scenario, the patch-developing cost should be balanced against the negative impact of virus. This article focuses on seeking best-balanced patch-injecting strategies. First, based on a novel virus-patch interactive model, the original problem is reduced to an optimal control problem, in which (a) each admissible control stands for a feasible patch-injecting strategy and (b) the objective functional measures the balance of a feasible patch-injecting strategy. Second, the solvability of the optimal control problem is proved, and the optimality system for solving the problem is derived. Next, a few best-balanced patch-injecting strategies are presented by solving the corresponding optimality systems. Finally, the effects of some factors on the best balance of a patch-injecting strategy are examined. Our results will be helpful in defending against virus attacks in a cost-effective way.
Modified Small-Volume Jet Nebulizer Based on CFD Simulation and Its Clinical Outcomes in Small Asthmatic Children
Authors: Santati Sermsri , Thongsri Jatuporn , Sarntima Parinya
Published: June 2019

The small-volume jet nebulizer (SVJN) is an aerosol device used to treat respiratory illnesses. Major problems for aerosol treatment in small children include the penetration of particles to the lower lungs due to irregular and small volume of a child patient’s breath while the nebulizers used are the same models intended for adults. This adult SVJN produces a huge number of particles at a higher speed than small children can intake. To solve this problem, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to redesign the device by adding 6-inch corrugated tube with 80 ml capacity (equal to one inhale capacity of a small child) into the traditional SVJN. Results revealed that the undulations of the corrugated tube were the important parts that change the direction of aerosol flow, slowing down the produced speed of aerosol up to 31.48% (mean speed = 0.37 m/s via modified SVJN vs 0.54 m/s via traditional which were close to measured results). The modified SVJN was tested for the effectiveness on how it could accommodate bronchodilator drug to the lower lungs by 3 clinical researches with 238 asthmatic children aged 1–5 years. The results revealed that the experimental group reported higher bronchodilatating effects: higher mean score of change in oxygen saturation and degree of wheezing and greater reduction in respiratory rate per minute than the control group with statistical difference (p<0.05). Meanwhile, heart rate and physical attributes (dead volume and duration of aerosol treatment) were indifferent. Moreover, small children showed more acceptance behavior towards this modified SVJN than the traditional one. Modified SVJN might be a good choice for aerosol treatment in small children because it slows down the speed of aerosol production, makes them well spread all over the reservoir, and is ready for small children to inhale for better clinical outcomes while physical attributes are the same.
Continuous-Flow Synthesis of Thermochromic M-Phase VO2 Particles via Rapid One-Step Hydrothermal Reaction: Effect of Mixers
Authors: Yan Xiaojie , Trevillyan William , Castano Ioannina , Sun Yugang , Muehleisen Ralph , Li Jie
Published: June 2019

VO2 particles are promising materials for thermochromic smart windows that reduce building energy loss. Continuous-flow hydrothermal processes showcase advantages for synthesizing VO2 particles compared with traditional batch reaction systems. Mixers play a crucial role in particle fabrication in continuous-flow systems. In this study, a Center T-Mixer and a Collision Cross-Mixer are developed and implemented in a hot water fluidized suspension reaction (HWFSR) system. The influence of the resident time on the particle phase and size was evaluated, and properties of particles derived from systems equipped with differing mixers were compared. The resulting particles were characterized using techniques of X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). When compared with the Center T-Mixer, results indicate that the Collision Cross-Mixer has better control regarding the morphology and size distribution of resulting particles while improving the transition temperatures of the as-synthesized materials. HWFSR systems containing novel mixer designs are capable of producing pure M-phase VO2 particles in a single step contrary to the current reactor design that use a second postheat treatment step, and they are capable of synthesizing many other nanoparticle species, especially those requiring high temperature and pressure reaction conditions.
Unraveling the Potential Role of Glutathione in Multiple Forms of Cell Death in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Lv Huanhuan , Zhen Chenxiao , Liu Junyu , Yang Pengfei , Hu Lijiang , Shang Peng
Published: June 2019

Glutathione is the principal intracellular antioxidant buffer against oxidative stress and mainly exists in the forms of reduced glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG). The processes of glutathione synthesis, transport, utilization, and metabolism are tightly controlled to maintain intracellular glutathione homeostasis and redox balance. As for cancer cells, they exhibit a greater ROS level than normal cells in order to meet the enhanced metabolism and vicious proliferation; meanwhile, they also have to develop an increased antioxidant defense system to cope with the higher oxidant state. Growing numbers of studies have implicated that altering the glutathione antioxidant system is associated with multiple forms of programmed cell death in cancer cells. In this review, we firstly focus on glutathione homeostasis from the perspectives of glutathione synthesis, distribution, transportation, and metabolism. Then, we discuss the function of glutathione in the antioxidant process. Afterwards, we also summarize the recent advance in the understanding of the mechanism by which glutathione plays a key role in multiple forms of programmed cell death, including apoptosis, necroptosis, ferroptosis, and autophagy. Finally, we highlight the glutathione-targeting therapeutic approaches toward cancers. A comprehensive review on the glutathione homeostasis and the role of glutathione depletion in programmed cell death provide insight into the redox-based research concerning cancer therapeutics.
What Methods Software Teams Prefer When Testing Web Accessibility
Authors: Bai Aleksander , Stray Viktoria , Mork Heidi
Published: June 2019

Accessibility has become an important focus in software development; the goal is to allow as many people as possible, regardless of their capabilities, to use software. We have investigated the methods that software teams prefer when testing the accessibility of their software. We conducted a large-scale study to evaluate six methods, using a sample of 53 people who work on various software teams. We present a detailed breakdown of the results for each testing method and analyze the differences between the methods. Our findings show that there are statistically significant differences in team members’ preferences, particularly for those with different roles. This implies that a software team should not choose a single method for all team members.
Numerical Study on Stochastic Diabetes Mellitus Model with Additive Noise
Authors: Zhang Zhifang , Zhan Qingyi , Xie Xiangdong
Published: June 2019

This article focuses on the numerical analysis and simulation of the stochastic diabetes mellitus model with additive noise. The existence and uniqueness theorem of the solution under some appropriate assumptions is established. And, the mean square stability and convergence of numerical solutions are proposed, too. The practical use of these theorems is demonstrated in the numerical computations of the stochastic diabetes mellitus model and the value for the forecast of the tendency of diabetes mellitus in a given time.
Dynamic Detection of Monocyte Subsets in Peripheral Blood of Patients with Acute Hypertriglyceridemic Pancreatitis
Authors: Zheng Junyuan , Fan Junjie , Huang Chunlan , Lu Yingying , Huang Zehua , Wang Xingpeng , Zeng Yue
Published: June 2019

Aim. Monocytes play an important role in acute pancreatitis (AP). Hypertriglyceridemic pancreatitis (HTGP) is always more severe than normal lipid-AP, whether the mechanism of aggravation involves monocyte subsets remains unknown though. The present study was aimed to analyze changes of peripheral blood M1 and M2 monocytes in HTGP patients. Methods. A total of 90 subjects were enrolled, among which 16 diagnosed with HTGP, 34 with acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP), 20 with hypertriglyceridemia (HTG), and 20 healthy controls (HC). Peripheral blood CD14+CD86+ M1 and CD14+CD206+ M2 monocytes were examined by flow cytometry on days 1, 3, and 7 after admission. Results. We found a marked increase in total and M1 monocyte count in AP patients (P<0.05). In HTGP, the percentage of M1 monocytes in white blood cells was significantly higher on days 1, 3, and 7, while M2 monocyte percentage was decreased on day 3, compared with ABP (P<0.05). In mild HTGP, M1 monocyte count and percentage gradually decreased, while M2 monocyte percentage gradually increased from day 1 to 7. In severe HTGP, M1 monocyte count and percentage rose to the highest point while M2 were the lowest on day 3. Additionally, the level of M1 monocytes showed a positive correlation with plasma triglyceride and Ranson score of HTGP patients. Conclusions. Peripheral blood M1 and M2 monocytes showed different dynamic changes in mild and severe HTGP. A more dominant role of CD14+CD86+ M1 monocytes may be involved in the pathogenesis of HTGP.
Quizalofop-p-ethyl Mixed with Synthetic Auxin and ACCase-Inhibiting Herbicides for Weed Management in Rice Production
Authors: Webster Eric P. , Rustom Samer Y. , McKnight Benjamin M. , Blouin David C. , Teló Gustavo M.
Published: June 2019

A study was conducted near Crowley, Louisiana, to evaluate the efficacy of quizalofop-p-ethyl mixed with different synthetic auxin and ACCase-inhibiting herbicides for barnyardgrass and weedy rice control in rice production systems. Quizalofop was applied at 0 or 120 g ai·ha−1 mixed with 2,4-D at 1336 g ai·ha−1, triclopyr at 282 g ai·ha−1, quinclorac at 420 g ai·ha−1, cyhalofop-butyl at 314 g ai·ha−1, or fenoxaprop-p-ethyl at 122 g ai·ha−1. Cyhalofop, fenoxaprop, 2,4-D, quinclorac, and triclopyr antagonized quizalofop for barnyardgrass control at 14 days after treatment (DAT). At 28 DAT, an antagonistic response persisted for barnyardgrass control, except when cyhalofop was mixed with quizalofop, which indicated a neutral response. Red rice, CLXL-745, and CL-111 control decreased due to antagonism of quizalofop when mixed with 2,4-D. However, quinclorac, triclopyr, cyhalofop, or fenoxaprop mixed with quizalofop resulted in a neutral response for red rice, CLXL-745, and CL-111 control at 28 DAT.
Numerical Simulation Analysis of Unsteady Temperature in Thermal Insulation Supporting Roadway
Authors: Zhang Shuguang , Lu Pingping , Wang Hongwei
Published: June 2019

High geothermal hazard is a basic problem that must be solved in deep mining; thereby the research on thermal insulation supporting for high temperature control of deep roadway is increasing. However, the quantitative analysis of its thermal insulation effect is yet to be carried out. By building the physical model and control equations of the thermal insulation supporting roadway and considering heat‐humidity transfer at wall, the temperature field distribution of surrounding rock and airflow is numerically calculated. Based on numerical simulation results, the evolution law of temperature with ventilation time is analyzed at airflow inlet, outlet, and different sections, then the variation law of surface heat transfer coefficient with position and time is obtained. For heat insulation support structure, the results show that it is not obvious to change the distribution law of temperature field, but it is effective to weaken the convection heat transfer between surrounding rock and airflow. In the main airflow area, the rate of heat exchange gradually decreases with the heat exchange becoming more and more sufficient; in boundary layer, the airflow temperature quickly transits from the wall temperature to that of the main airflow area because of intense collisions of airflow masses, so the mechanism of temperature change is different. The surface heat transfer coefficient well reflected the unstable heat‐humidity transfer, especially in the beginning of ventilation or at airflow inlet. Therefore, the heat insulation supporting structure is helpful to the auxiliary cooling of high temperature mine.
On the Multidomain Bivariate Spectral Local Linearisation Method for Solving Systems of Nonsimilar Boundary Layer Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Magagula Vusi Mpendulo
Published: June 2019

In this work, a novel approach for solving systems of nonsimilar boundary layer equations over a large time domain is presented. The method is a multidomain bivariate spectral local linearisation method (MD-BSLLM), Legendre-Gauss-Lobatto grid points, a local linearisation technique, and the spectral collocation method to approximate functions defined as bivariate Lagrange interpolation. The method is developed for a general system of n nonlinear partial differential equations. The use of the MD-BSLLM is demonstrated by solving a system of nonlinear partial differential equations that describe a class of nonsimilar boundary layer equations. Numerical experiments are conducted to show applicability and accuracy of the method. Grid independence tests establish the accuracy, convergence, and validity of the method. The solution for the limiting case is used to validate the accuracy of the MD-BSLLM. The proposed numerical method performs better than some existing numerical methods for solving a class of nonsimilar boundary layer equations over large time domains since it converges faster and uses few grid points to achieve accurate results. The proposed method uses minimal computation time and its accuracy does not deteriorate with an increase in time.
Sensitivity of Heterotrophic Bacteria in the Low-Salinity Water Areas and Estuary in Siak District toward Pathogenic Bacteria in Fish
Authors: Feliatra F. , Hamdani Rizki , Lukystyowati Iesye , Nurachmi Irvina
Published: June 2019

The high rate of bacterial diseases in fishes and shrimps has lead scientists seek for natural antibiotic products that would act as a solution. An example of this product is the secondary metabolic products from heterotrophic bacteria. These bacteria could easily be found in many water regions and estuaries, including the Siak District, Riau, Indonesia. Therefore, this study aims at determining the ability of bacterial isolates in inhibiting the growth of pathogens (Vibrio alginolyticus, Aeromonas hydrophila, and Pseudomonas sp.). The research was conducted from June to September 2018. It actuates the type of heterotrophic bacteria in the sampling area using the PCR technique. The phylogenetic structure of bacterial isolates obtained during this study was assessed by nucleotide sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. The antagonism test showed that bacteria had the ability to inhibit the growth of pathogens (Vibrio alginolyticus, Aeromonas hydrophila, and Pseudomonas sp.). The results showed that 25 pure bacterial isolates were obtained, in which 10 of those were carried out by DNA sequencing; hence, it could be used as antimicrobes. Based on the analysis of 16S rDNA, 10 isolates were identified: 6 were Bacillus cereus and 2 were Pseudomonas aeruginosa with homology levels ranging from 97 to 99%, while the remaining two were suspected as the new species of isolates. From the result, it could be concluded that heterotrophic bacteria are found to be better used as antipathogens against Vibrio alginolitycus than hydrophila and Pseudomonas sp.
LMR and LTE for Public Safety in 700 MHz Spectrum
Authors: Chaudhry Aizaz U. , Hafez Roshdy H. M.
Published: June 2019

This paper presents a concise overview of current public safety communication networks known as LMR (Land Mobile Radio) and emerging LTE- (Long-Term Evolution-) based broadband public safety networks to be deployed in the 700 MHz band. A broadband nationwide network for public safety based on LTE is inevitable where shared or dedicated types of LTE-based public safety networks are possible. Current LTE services do not meet mission-critical requirements and several enhancements have been defined by 3GPP to address this in Releases 12 and 13. First responders are familiar with LMR and consider it to be a reliable technology with massive deployment everywhere. Therefore, it is expected that LMR will continue to exist alongside any new LTE-based broadband public safety network. Recent LTE releases (particularly Release 15) addressed the LMR-LTE interoperability issue and described comprehensive interworking facilities. New and upcoming features and services of LTE in Releases 14 and 15, such as mission-critical data, mission-critical video, and aerial user equipments, are also directly applicable to public safety. The paper endeavours to provide a quick yet meaningful review of all these issues. It also offers a look ahead at the new and rapidly advancing virtualization technologies, such as software-defined radio access network, and radio access network slicing, as enablers for future public safety networks.
Highly Biocompatible Nanoparticles of Au@Fluorescent Polymers as Novel Contrast Agent for In Vivo Bimodality NIR Fluorescence/CT Imaging
Authors: Zhang Mengshu , Liu Jinlei , Wang Guannan
Published: June 2019

In this work, one kind of biocompatible and all-in-one dual-modal nanoprobe, based on Au nanoparticles and NIR emissive semiconducting fluorescence polymers, was developed by the one-step solvent-mediated self-assembly method for in vivo X-ray computed tomography (CT) and fluorescence bioimaging for the first time. After preparation, a series of comprehensive evaluations were performed, and the nanoprobe exhibited smart size and modification, good compatibility, inducement of autophagy, long blood circulation, unconspicuous in vivo toxicity, and excellent fluorescence/CT imaging effects. Overall, the studies in this work assuredly indicate that the synthesized Au@FP nanoparticles as a noninvasive contrast agent is suitable for in vivo fluorescence/X-ray CT bimodality biomedical imaging and diagnosis.
Meta-Analysis of Antinuclear Antibodies in the Diagnosis of Antimitochondrial Antibody-Negative Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Authors: Zhang Qian , Liu Zhiqiang , Wu Shanshan , Duan Weijia , Chen Sha , Ou Xiaojuan , You Hong , Kong Yuanyuan , Jia Jidong
Published: June 2019

Objective. The diagnostic value of antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) including anti-gp210 and anti-sp100 for primary biliary cholangitis/cirrhosis (PBC) has been widely reported. However, their diagnostic performances for antimitochondrial antibody- (AMA-) negative PBC were less well elucidated. Therefore, the aim of the current meta-analysis was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of ANAs in patients with AMA-negative PBC.Materials and Methods. Literature on the diagnostic value of biomarkers for AMA-negative PBC was systematically searched in PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library. The qualities of the retrieved studies were assessed by the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-version 2 (QUADAS-2) scale. Pooled sensitivity and specificity of the biomarkers were calculated with random-effects models. The areas under the summary receiver operating characteristic (AUSROC) curves were used to evaluate the overall diagnostic performance of ANAs.Results. A total of 11 studies (400 AMA-negative PBC patients and 6217 controls) were finally included in the meta-analysis. ANAs had an overall sensitivity of 27% (95% CI: 20%, 35%) and specificity of 98% (95% CI: 97%, 99%). The pooled sensitivities for anti-gp210 and anti-sp100 were 23% (95% CI: 13%, 37%) and 25% (95% CI: 13%, 43%), respectively, and their specificities were 99% (95% CI: 97%, 100%) and 97% (95% CI: 93%, 98%), respectively.Conclusions. ANAs exhibited high specificity but low sensitivity and therefore could be used as reliable biomarkers to reduce the necessity of liver histology.
CBP/p300 Drives the Differentiation of Regulatory T Cells through Transcriptional and Non-Transcriptional Mechanisms
Authors: Castillo Joseph , Wu Esther , Lowe Christopher , Srinivasan Shrividhya , McCord Ron , Wagle Marie-Claire , Jayakar Sangeeta , Edick Melissa Gonzalez , Eastham-Anderson Jeffrey , Liu Bonnie , Hutchinson Katherine E. , Jones Wendell , Stokes Matthew P. , Tarighat Somayeh S. , Holcomb Thomas , Glibicky Andrew , Romero F. Anthony , Magnuson Steven , Huang Shih-Min A. , Plaks Vicki , Giltnane Jennifer M. , Lackner Mark R. , Mounir Zineb
Published: June 2019

Regulatory T cells (Treg) are immunosuppressive and negatively impact response to cancer immunotherapies. CREB-binding protein (CBP) and p300 are closely related acetyltransferases and transcriptional coactivators. Here, we evaluate the mechanisms by which CBP/p300 regulate Treg differentiation and the consequences of CBP/p300 loss-of-function mutations in follicular lymphoma. Transcriptional and epigenetic profiling identified a cascade of transcription factors essential for Treg differentiation. Mass spectrometry analysis showed that CBP/p300 acetylates prostacyclin synthase, which regulates Treg differentiation by altering proinflammatory cytokine secretion by T and B cells. Reduced Treg presence in tissues harboring CBP/p300 loss-of-function mutations was observed in follicular lymphoma. Our findings provide novel insights into the regulation of Treg differentiation by CBP/p300, with potential clinical implications on alteration of the immune landscape.

Significance:

This study provides insights into the dynamic role of CBP/p300 in the differentiation of Tregs, with potential clinical implications in the alteration of the immune landscape in follicular lymphoma.
Functional Properties of KIT Mutations Are Associated with Differential Clinical Outcomes and Response to Targeted Therapeutics in CBF Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Tarlock Katherine , Alonzo Todd A. , Wang Yi-Cheng , Gerbing Robert B. , Ries Rhonda , Loken Michael R. , Pardo Laura , Hylkema Tiffany , Joaquin Jason , Sarukkai Leela , Raimondi Susana C. , Hirsch Betsy , Sung Lillian , Aplenc Richard , Bernstein Irwin , Gamis Alan S. , Meshinchi Soheil , Pollard Jessica A.
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

KIT mutations (KIT+) are common in core binding factor (CBF) AML and have been associated with varying prognostic significance. We sought to define the functional and clinical significance of distinct KIT mutations in CBF pediatric AML.

Experimental Design:

Following transfection of exon 17 (E17) and exon 8 (E8) mutations into HEK293 and Ba/F3 cells, KIT phosphorylation, cytokine-independent growth, and response to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) were evaluated. Clinical outcomes of patients treated on COG AAML0531 (NCT01407757), a phase III study of gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO), were analyzed according to mutation status [KIT+ vs. wild-type KIT (KIT−)] and mutation location (E8 vs. E17).

Results:

KIT mutations were detected in 63 of 205 patients (31%); 22 (35%) involved only E8, 32 (51%) only E17, 6 (10%) both exons, and 3 (5%) alternative exons. Functional studies demonstrated that E17, but not E8, mutations result in aberrant KIT phosphorylation and growth. TKI exposure significantly affected growth of E17, but not E8, transfected cells. Patients with KIT+ CBF AML had overall survival similar to those with KIT− (78% vs. 81%, P = 0.905) but higher relapse rates (RR = 43% vs. 21%; P = 0.005). E17 KIT+ outcomes were inferior to KIT− patients [disease-free survival (DFS), 51% vs. 73%, P = 0.027; RR = 21% vs. 46%, P = 0.007)], although gemtuzumab ozogamicin abrogated this negative prognostic impact. E8 mutations lacked significant prognostic effect, and GO failed to significantly improve outcome.

Conclusions:

E17 mutations affect prognosis in CBF AML, as well as response to GO and TKIs; thus, clinical trials using both agents should be considered for KIT+ patients.
Development and Validation of a Combined Hypoxia and Immune Prognostic Classifier for Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Brooks Jill M. , Menezes Albert N. , Ibrahim Maha , Archer Lucinda , Lal Neeraj , Bagnall Christopher J. , von Zeidler Sandra V. , Valentine Helen R. , Spruce Rachel J. , Batis Nikolaos , Bryant Jennifer L. , Hartley Margaret , Kaul Baksho , Ryan Gordon B. , Bao Riyue , Khattri Arun , Lee Steven P. , Ogbureke Kalu U.E. , Middleton Gary , Tennant Daniel A. , Beggs Andrew D. , Deeks Jonathan , West Catharine M. L. , Cazier Jean-Baptiste , Willcox Benjamin E. , Seiwert Tanguy Y. , Mehanna Hisham
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

Intratumoral hypoxia and immunity have been correlated with patient outcome in various tumor settings. However, these factors are not currently considered for treatment selection in head and neck cancer (HNC) due to lack of validated biomarkers. Here we sought to develop a hypoxia-immune classifier with potential application in patient prognostication and prediction of response to targeted therapy.

Experimental Design:

A 54-gene hypoxia-immune signature was constructed on the basis of literature review. Gene expression was analyzed in silico using the The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) HNC dataset (n = 275) and validated using two independent cohorts (n = 130 and 123). IHC was used to investigate the utility of a simplified protein signature. The spatial distribution of hypoxia and immune markers was examined using multiplex immunofluorescence staining.

Results:

Unsupervised hierarchical clustering of TCGA dataset (development cohort) identified three patient subgroups with distinct hypoxia-immune phenotypes and survival profiles: hypoxialow/immunehigh, hypoxiahigh/immunelow, and mixed, with 5-year overall survival (OS) rates of 71%, 51%, and 49%, respectively (P = 0.0015). The prognostic relevance of the hypoxia-immune gene signature was replicated in two independent validation cohorts. Only PD-L1 and intratumoral CD3 protein expression were associated with improved OS on multivariate analysis. Hypoxialow/immunehigh and hypoxiahigh/immunelow tumors were overrepresented in “inflamed” and “immune-desert” microenvironmental profiles, respectively. Multiplex staining demonstrated an inverse correlation between CA-IX expression and prevalence of intratumoral CD3+ T cells (r = −0.5464; P = 0.0377), further corroborating the transcription-based classification.

Conclusions:

We developed and validated a hypoxia-immune prognostic transcriptional classifier, which may have clinical application to guide the use of hypoxia modification and targeted immunotherapies for the treatment of HNC.
Endothelial Forkhead Box Transcription Factor P1 Regulates Pathological Cardiac Remodeling Through Transforming Growth Factor-β1–Endothelin-1 Signal Pathway
Authors: Liu Jie , Zhuang Tao , Pi Jingjiang , Chen Xiaoli , Zhang Qi , Li Ying , Wang Haikun , Shen Yajing , Tomlinson Brian , Chan Paul , Yu Zuoren , Cheng Yu , Zheng Xiangjian , Reilly Muredach , Morrisey Edward , Zhang Lin , Liu Zhongmin , Zhang Yuzhen
Published: June 2019

Background:

Pathological cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy, the common features of left ventricular remodeling, often progress to heart failure. Forkhead box transcription factor P1 (Foxp1) in endothelial cells (ECs) has been shown to play an important role in heart development. However, the effect of EC-Foxp1 on pathological cardiac remodeling has not been well clarified. This study aims to determine the role of EC-Foxp1 in pathological cardiac remodeling and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods:

Foxp1 EC-specific loss-of-function and gain-of-function mice were generated, and an angiotensin II infusion or a transverse aortic constriction operation mouse model was used to study the cardiac remodeling mechanisms. Foxp1 downstream target gene transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) was confirmed by chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase assays. Finally, the effects of TGF-β1 blockade on EC-Foxp1 deletion–mediated profibrotic and prohypertrophic phenotypic changes were further confirmed by pharmacological inhibition, more specifically by RGD-peptide magnetic nanoparticle target delivery of TGF-β1–siRNA to ECs.

Results:

Foxp1 expression is significantly downregulated in cardiac ECs during angiotensin II–induced cardiac remodeling. EC-Foxp1 deletion results in severe cardiac remodeling, including more cardiac fibrosis with myofibroblast formation and extracellular matrix protein production, as well as decompensated cardiac hypertrophy and further exacerbation of cardiac dysfunction on angiotensin II infusion or transverse aortic constriction operation. In contrast, EC-Foxp1 gain of function protects against pathological cardiac remodeling and improves cardiac dysfunction. TGF-β1 signals are identified as Foxp1 direct target genes, and EC-Foxp1 deletion upregulates TGF-β1 signals to promote myofibroblast formation through fibroblast proliferation and transformation, resulting in severe cardiac fibrosis. Moreover, EC-Foxp1 deletion enhances TGF-β1–promoted endothelin-1 expression, which significantly increases cardiomyocyte size and reactivates cardiac fetal genes, leading to pathological cardiac hypertrophy. Correspondingly, these EC-Foxp1 deletion–mediated profibrotic and prohypertrophic phenotypic changes and cardiac dysfunction are normalized by the blockade of TGF-β1 signals through pharmacological inhibition and RGD-peptide magnetic nanoparticle target delivery of TGF-β1–siRNA to ECs.

Conclusions:

EC-Foxp1 regulates the TGF-β1–endothelin-1 pathway to control pathological cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy, resulting in cardiac dysfunction. Therefore, targeting the EC–Foxp1–TGF-β1–endothelin-1 pathway might provide a future novel therapy for heart failure.