bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural Mechanisms of Reward Prediction Error in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Mosner Maya G. , McLaurin R. Edward , Kinard Jessica L. , Hakimi Shabnam , Parelman Jacob , Shah Jasmine S. , Bizzell Joshua , Greene Rachel K. , Cernasov Paul M. , Walsh Erin , Addicott Merideth A. , Eisenlohr-Moul Tory , Carter R. McKell , Dichter Gabriel S.
Published: July 2019

Few studies have explored neural mechanisms of reward learning in ASD despite evidence of behavioral impairments of predictive abilities in ASD. To investigate the neural correlates of reward prediction errors in ASD, 16 adults with ASD and 14 typically developing controls performed a prediction error task during fMRI scanning. Results revealed greater activation in the ASD group in the left paracingulate gyrus during signed prediction errors and the left insula and right frontal pole during thresholded unsigned prediction errors. Findings support atypical neural processing of reward prediction errors in ASD in frontostriatal regions critical for prediction coding and reward learning. Results provide a neural basis for impairments in reward learning that may contribute to traits common in ASD (e.g., intolerance of unpredictability).
Heterologous Ectoine Production inEscherichia coli: Optimization Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Parwata I Putu , Wahyuningrum Deana , Suhandono Sony , Hertadi Rukman
Published: July 2019

Introduction. A halophilic bacterium of theHalomonas elongataBK-AG25 has successfully produced ectoine with high productivity. To overcome the drawbacks of high levels of salt in the production process, a nonhalophilic bacteria ofEscherichia coli(E. coli) was used to express the ectoine gene cluster of the halophilic bacteria, and the production of ectoine by the recombinant cell was optimized.Methods. The ectoine gene cluster from the halophilic bacterium was isolated and inserted into an expression plasmid of pET30(a) and subsequently transformed intoE. coliBL21 (DE3). Production of ectoine from the recombinantE. coliwas investigated and then maximized by optimizing the level of nutrients in the medium, as well as the bioprocess conditions using response surface methodology. The experimental designs were performed using a central composite design.Results. The recombinantE. colisuccessfully expressed the ectoine gene cluster ofHalomonas elongataBK-AG25 under the control of theT7promoter. The recombinant cell was able to produce ectoine, of which most were excreted into the medium. The optimization of ectoine production with the response surface methodology showed that the level of salt in the medium, the incubation temperature, the optical density of the bacteria before induction, and the final concentration of the inducer gave a significant effect on ectoine production by the recombinantE. coli. Interestingly, the level of salt in the medium and the incubation temperature showed an inverse effect on the production of intracellular and extracellular ectoine by the recombinant cell. At the optimum conditions, the production yield was about 418 mg ectoine/g cdw (cell dry weight) after 12 hours of incubation.Conclusion. This study is the first report on the expression of an ectoine gene cluster ofHalomonas elongataBK-AG25 inE. coliBL21, under the control of theT7promoter. Optimization of the level of nutrients in the medium, as well as the bioprocess condition using response surface methodology, has successfully increased the production of ectoine by the recombinant bacteria.
Dynamic Modeling and Development of Symbolic Calculation Software for N‐DOF Flexible‐Link Manipulators Incorporating Lumped Mass
Authors: Yu Feng , Chen Xinyuan
Published: July 2019

Considering the complex dynamic modeling of multi‐DOF planar flexible manipulators, a general‐purpose method for the rigid‐flexible coupling dynamic modeling of N‐DOF flexible manipulators is proposed in this paper, and symbolic calculation software is developed. The modeling method is based on the Lagrange equation and assumed mode method (AMM). First, the N‐DOF flexible manipulator is divided into two parts, which are assumed to be rigid and flexible. On this basis, the rigid part and the flexible part are coupled, and the calculation process of the model is further simplified. Then, the simplest general symbolic expression of the dynamic model of the N‐DOF flexible manipulator is obtained with the induction method. According to the modeling method, “symbolic expression computation software for dynamic equations of N‐DOF flexible manipulators” is developed using the symbolic calculation software Mathematica. Finally, the dynamic modeling method and the symbolic calculation software are verified by a trajectory tracking experiment with a PD control applied to a 2‐DOF flexible manipulator. Compared with the traditional modeling method, the calculation time can be reduced by more than 90% using the modeling method proposed in this paper, which significantly reduces the complexity of the modeling process.
An Assessment of Malaria Parasite Density among HIV/AIDS-Subjects at Different Levels of CD4 T-Cells Prior to Antimalarial Therapy at Chulaimbo Sub-County Hospital, Western Kenya
Authors: Kirinyet J. K.
Published: July 2019

Background. Malaria and HIV/AIDS infections are among the major public health concerns in sub-Saharan Africa, where they are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Recent findings indicate that individual people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) with lower levels of CD4 T-cell count below 200/mm3 tend to experience higher mean malaria parasite densities than their counterparts with higher CD4 T-cells counts. Aim. The study was conducted to assess the pattern of malaria parasite density at different levels of CD4 T-cells among people living with HIV/AIDS in Western part of Kenya. Subjects and Methods. A randomized antimalarial treatment study among 126 people living with HIV/AIDS was conducted at Chulaimbo Sub-County Hospital, Western Kenya. All the participants enrolled into the study had their blood samples assessed for malaria parasite densities before commencement of antimalarial therapy and the results correlated with their CD4 T-cells levels obtained from their respective files. Results. Mean malaria parasite density on pretreatment samples was 43,168 parasites /μL of blood, median was 17,720, and mode was 4,000. Male participants had a higher geometrical mean parasite density (26,424) compared to females’ (15,346) (p = 0.03). Low CD4 counts were associated with high density malaria parasitaemia and consequently, very high CD4 counts seemed to exhibit low malaria parasite density among PLWHA. An insignificant negative correlation, however, between CD4 T-cells count and malaria parasite densities was noted (p = 0.169). Conclusion. The study was able to establish higher parasite density among individuals with ≤200 cells/μL than their counterparts with >200 cells/μL of CD4 T-cell levels in PLWHA resident in Western Kenya. Secondly, males significantly had a higher geometrical mean parasite density than females regardless of their CD4 status. It is anticipated that the results from this study could be used/applied in developing interventional measures to address malaria/HIV-AIDS coinfections aimed at saving life, particularly in the sub-Saharan African region where the two infections are rampant.
Inulin Supplementation Reduces Systolic Blood Pressure in Women with Breast Cancer Undergoing Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Becerril-Alarcón Yizel , Campos-Gómez Saúl , Valdez-Andrade Juan J. , Campos-Gómez Karen A. , Reyes-Barretero Diana Y. , Benítez-Arciniega Alejandra D. , Valdés-Ramos Roxana , Soto-Piña Alexandra E.
Published: July 2019

Introduction. Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy in women, and comorbidities like hypertension and obesity diminish their quality of life and negatively affect their response to chemotherapy. Furthermore, inulin supplementation is associated with the reduction of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) risk. Objective. To determine whether inulin supplementation prevents the elevation of blood pressure in women with breast cancer undergoing neoadjuvant therapy with cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin. Methods. This was a randomized, double-blind placebo controlled trial which included women with early-stage breast cancer undergoing neoadjuvant therapy (n=38). Patients were randomly assigned to participate in two different groups to receive either 15 g of inulin or 15 g of placebo (maltodextrin) for 21 days. Body composition and blood pressure were evaluated before and after the supplementation period. Results. Women in the inulin group showed a lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) after the supplementation (-4.21 mmHg, p<0.001). However, SBP increased in the placebo supplemented group. Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) nonsignificantly decreased in the inulin group. Inulin supplementation also increased BMI (p<0.001) but reduced BFP (p=0.288). Furthermore, confounding variables, such as BMI, baseline fasting glucose, age, menopause status, vomiting, constipation, and chronic medication did not have a statistical influence over the inulin effect on SBP. Conclusion. Inulin supplementation reduces SBP and prevents increases in DBP in women with breast cancer. This could be an innovative nutraceutical approach to prevent hypertension present in women with this type of cancer at an early stage and may improve the quality of life of the patients and their prognostic development through chemotherapy. Trial Registration Number. This trial is registered with ACTRN12616001532493.
Research on the Improvement of Feedback Linearization Control in Suspension System Countering Inductance Variation
Authors: Zhang Liwei , Zhang Yue , Zhang Chao , Zhao He
Published: July 2019

The safety of the magnetic levitation (maglev) train is closely related to the control performance of the suspension module. However, during operation, the working conditions vary and are vulnerable to the external disturbances. In this work, a large‐scale variation of the inductance of the magnetic levitation operation under different air gap conditions is considered, where the transfer function of the system changes nonlinearly. On the basis of the classical feedback linearization method, the algorithm of the first‐order derivative for a single equilibrium point is improved, and then a multiequilibrium point feedback linearization method subject to the variation of the inductance is derived. The proposed linearization method can decouple the inductance from the air gap dynamics in any state of levitation, thus, reducing the model error. Using a general linear controller, the closed‐loop control performance of the nonlinear hybrid excitation suspension system is run in MATLAB®. The simulation results show that the proposed method achieves good dynamic performance under various operating conditions and it improves the robust performance of the system.
Polymorphisms -455G/A and -148C/T and Fibrinogen Plasmatic Level as Risk Markers of Coronary Disease and Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events
Authors: Canseco-Avila Luis Miguel , Lopez-Roblero Alexander , Serrano-Guzman Eleazar , Aguilar-Fuentes Javier , Jerjes-Sanchez Carlos , Rojas-Martinez Augusto , Ortiz-Lopez Rocio
Published: July 2019

Some polymorphisms in genes codifying for fibrinogen have been correlated with plasma levels of this protein, and several studies reported their associations with acute cardiovascular events. In the present study, 118 subjects with unstable and stable coronary diseases were enrolled to determinate the associations among fibrinogen gene polymorphisms, plasma fibrinogen levels, and major cardiovascular adverse events in a sample of southwestern Mexico. The groups, including 81 control subjects, were matched for age, sex, body mass index, and sedentarism. Plasma fibrinogen levels and the polymorphisms 455G/A, -148C/T, +1689T/G, andBclI of the gene of fibrinogen were compared in all groups. Plasma fibrinogen levels (>465 mg/dl) were significant in patients with coronary disease.Fibrinogen plasma values>450 mg/dlwere associated with cardiovascular mortality during the follow-up analysis of the unstable coronary disease group (p=0.04). The allelic loads of -455A and -148T were associated withplasma fibrinogen levels>450 mg/dl(p<0.003andp=0.03, respectively) and with coronary disease (p=0.016andp<0.006, respectively). The follow-up of posterior events after an acute coronary event showed that the genetic load of the -148T allele was associated with major adverse cardiovascular events (RR=1.8,95%CI=1.01‐3.35,p=0.04).Fibrinogen plasmatic levels>450 mg/dland the fibrinogen polymorphisms -455G/A and 148C/T had association with MACE and coronary disease. This study suggests that these gene polymorphisms are associated with cardiovascular risk.
Facilitators to Accessibility of HIV/AIDS-Related Health Services among Transgender Women Living with HIV in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Fauk Nelsensius Klau , Merry Maria Silvia , Siri Theodorus Asa , Tazir Fabiola Tazrina , Sigilipoe Mitra Andhini , Tarigan Kristin Oktanita , Mwanri Lillian
Published: July 2019

The study aimed to explore facilitators or enabling factors that enhance accessibility (defined as the opportunity to be able to use) to HIV/AIDS-related health services among HIV positive transgender women, also known as Waria in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. A qualitative study employing one-on-one in-depth interviews was conducted from December 2017 to February 2018. Participants were HIV positive Waria recruited using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Data were analysed using the framework analysis for qualitative research. The findings showed that participants’ knowledge of HIV/AIDS and the availability of HIV/AIDS-related health services were enablers to the services accessibility. Emotional support from fellow Waria displayed in various ways, such as kind and caring attention, attentive listening, and encouraging words, was an important social support that played a role in supporting Waria’s accessibility to the services. HIV/AIDS-related health service information shared personally or jointly by fellow Waria and instrumental support including helping each other to collect antiretroviral (ARV) from hospitals or community health centres, contacting ambulance in emergency situations, accompanying each other to health service facilities, and helping those without the health insurance to receive free health services were also the social support enabling accessibility to the services among the study participants. Appraisal support such as providing constructive feedback and affirmation was another enabling factor to Waria’s accessibility to the services. The findings indicate the needs to broadly disseminate information and educate Waria populations and their significant others about HIV/AIDS and related health services to raise their awareness of HIV/AIDS and acceptance of HIV/AIDS positive individuals. Educating and broadly disseminating this information in other settings in the country will also increase accessibility to the HIV/AIDS services among Waria, their families, and communities addressing the currently existing inequities in health. The findings also reinforce the importance of the establishment of Waria peer-support groups within Waria communities and the involvement of Waria in HIV/AIDS activities and programs, which may increase their awareness of HIV/AIDS, and accessibility to HIV/AIDS-related health services.
Management of Splenic Abscess after Splenic Arterial Embolization in Severe Acute Pancreatitis: A 5-Year Single-Center Experience
Authors: Li Gang , Gao Lin , Zhou Jing , Ye Bo , Zhang Jingzhu , Qu Cheng , Ke Lu , Tong Zhihui , Li Weiqin
Published: July 2019

Objective. To describe the management and prognosis of splenic abscess after splenic arterial embolization in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) patients.Methods. This is a retrospective observational study. From August 2012 to August 2017, SAP patients with infected pancreatic necrosis (IPN) who underwent splenic arterial embolization after massive hemorrhage of the splenic artery were screened and those who developed splenic abscess were included for analysis. The demographic characteristics, etiology, treatment of splenic abscess, and clinical outcomes of these cases were collected and analyzed.Results. A total of 18 patients with splenic abscess formed after splenic arterial embolization were included for data analysis. The median age of the 18 patients was 46 years. The etiologies included biliary AP, hypertriglyceridemic AP (HTG-AP), and other causes. Ten patients underwent minimally invasive percutaneous drainage only for splenic abscess while the other eight patients received splenectomy. One patient died due to uncontrolled infection and another patient died due to massive bleeding, and the remaining sixteen patients survived.Conclusion. The incidence of splenic abscess was high in patients requiring splenic arterial embolization due to massive bleeding. Our data showed that most splenic abscess could be successfully managed with minimally invasive interventions, and traditional splenectomy should serve as a backup treatment.
Acetylcholinesterases from Leaf-Cutting antAtta sexdens: Purification, Characterization, and Capillary Reactors for On-Flow Assays
Authors: Dos Santos Adriana M. , Moreira Ariele C. , Lopes Bianca Rebelo , Fracola Mariana F. , de Almeida Fernando G. , Bueno Odair C. , Cass Quezia B. , Souza Dulce Helena F.
Published: July 2019

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is responsible for catalyzing the hydrolysis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) leading to acetate and choline (Ch) release. The inhibition of AChE produces a generalized synaptic collapse that can lead to insect death. Herein we report for the first time the isolation of two AChEs fromAtta sexdenswhich were purified by sulphate ammonium precipitation followed by ion exchange chromatography. AsAChE-A and AsAChE-B enzymes have optimum pH of 9.5 and 9.0 and higher activities in 30/50°C and 20°C, respectively, using acetylthiocholine (ATCh) as substrate. Immobilized capillary enzyme reactors (ICERs) were obtained for both enzymes (AsAChE-A-ICER and AsAChE-B-ICER) and their activities were measured by LC-MS/MS through hydrolysis product quantification of the natural substrate ACh. The comparison of activities by LC-MS/MS of both AChEs using ACh as substrate showed that AsAChE-B (free or immobilized) had the highest affinity. The inverse result was observed when the colorimetric assay (Elman method) was used for ATCh as substrate. Moreover, by mass spectrometry and phylogenetic studies, AsAChE-A and AsAChE-B were classified as belonging to AChE-2 and AChE-1 classes, respectively.
Experimental Study of Fracture Characterizations of Rocks under Dynamic Tension Test with Image Processing
Authors: Ai Dihao , Zhao Yuechao , Xie Beijing , Li Chengwu
Published: July 2019

To investigate the fracture characterizations of rocks under high strain rate tensile failure, a series of dynamic Brazilian tests was conducted using Split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB), and a high‐speed digital camera at a frame rate of 50,000 frames per second (FPS) with a resolution of 272 × 512 pixels was adopted to capture the real‐time images and visualize the failure processes. Using the extracted cracks and image processing technique, the relationship between loading condition (impact velocity), crack propagation process (crack velocity, crack fractal characteristic, and crack morphological features), and dynamic mechanical properties (absorbed energy and strain‐stress parameters) was explored and analyzed. The experimental results indicate that (1) impact velocity plays a critical role in both crack propagation process and dynamic mechanical properties, (2) the crack fractal dimension is positively correlated with crack propagation velocity and has a linear relationship with the proposed morphological feature of crack, (3) mean strain rate and max strain of rocks under SHPB loading both decrease with the increase of crack propagation velocity, and (4) the energy absorbed by the rocks increases with increasing impact velocity and has a strong negative correlation with a proposed novel crack descriptor. Experimental studies pertaining to the measurement of crack propagation path and velocity, in particular, some crack feature extraction approaches, present a promising way to reveal the fracture process and failure mechanisms of rock‐like materials.
Research on High‐Power and High‐Speed Hydraulic Impact Testing Machine for Mine Anti‐Impact Support Equipment
Authors: Wang Jie , Zhang Jianzhuo
Published: July 2019

Rock burst is one of the most serious disasters that can occur in mining. However, studies of mine disaster prevention and hydraulic support still face a lack of large scale high‐speed and high‐power impact loading test equipment for the simulation of rock bursts. Considering the coexistence of quasistatic loading, dynamic loading, and static‐dynamic composite loading in rock bursts, an impact test machine was designed based on hydraulic loading to achieve the maximum impact force of 2000 kN and maximum impact velocity of 10 m/s to simulate the impact of actual rock bursts in this study. In the design process, the action principle and loading characteristics of the rock burst were first analyzed, and on this basis, the hydraulic loading system was designed using theoretical calculations as well as simulation. Requirements related to laboratory experiments were used to determine the technical parameters and structure of the test machine. The main frame of the test machine was designed according to the load requirements, and the dynamic characteristics of the main frame under the impact condition were analyzed. According to the results of the calculations and simulations, a prototype was manufactured, on which a no‐loading impact test and crash box impact test were carried out. The test results validated the effectiveness of the test machine. The development of this impact test machine provides the necessary means for the research and development of anti‐impact support equipment.
Peptide-Protein Interaction Studies of Antimicrobial Peptides Targeting Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Spike Protein: An In Silico Approach
Authors: Mustafa Sabeena , Balkhy Hanan , Gabere Musa
Published: July 2019

There is no effective therapeutic or vaccine for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome and this study attempts to find therapy using peptide by establishing a basis for the peptide-protein interactions through in silico docking studies for the spike protein of MERS-CoV. The antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) were retrieved from the antimicrobial peptide database (APD3) and shortlisted based on certain important physicochemical properties. The binding mode of the shortlisted peptides was measured based on the number of clusters which forms in a protein-peptide docking using Piper. As a result, we identified a list of putative AMPs which binds to the spike protein of MERS-CoV, which may be crucial in providing the inhibitory action. It is observed that seven putative peptides have good binding score based on cluster size cutoff of 208. We conclude that seven peptides, namely, AP00225, AP00180, AP00549, AP00744, AP00729, AP00764, and AP00223, could possibly have binding with the active site of the MERS-CoV spike protein. These seven AMPs could serve as a therapeutic option for MERS and enhance its treatment outcome.
Long Noncoding RNAs in Pathological Cardiac Remodeling: A Review of the Update Literature
Authors: Zhou Huan , Wang Bin , Yang Ying-xi , Jia Qiu-jin , Zhang Ao , Qi Zhong-wen , Zhang Jun-ping
Published: July 2019

Cardiac remodeling is a self-regulatory response of the myocardium and vasculature under the stressful condition. Cardiomyocytes (CMs), vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), endothelial cells (ECs), and cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) are all involved in this process, characterized by change of morphological structures and mechanical/chemical activities as well as metabolic patterns. Despite current development of consciousness, the control of cardiac remodeling remains unsatisfactory, and to further explore the underlying mechanism and seek the optimal therapeutic targets is still the urgent need in clinical practice. It is now emerging that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play key regulatory roles in these adverse responses: lncRNA TUG1, AK098656, TRPV1, GAS5, Giver, and Lnc-Ang362 have been indicated in hypertension-related vascular remodeling, H19, TUG1, UCA1, MEG3, APPAT, and lincRNA-p21 in atherosclerosis (AS), and HIF1A-AS1 and Lnc-HLTF-5 in aortic aneurysm (AA). In addition, Neat1, AK139328, APF, CAIF, AK088388, CARL, MALAT1, HOTAIR, XIST, and NRF are involved in postischemia myocardial remodeling, while Mhrt, Chast, CHRF, ROR, H19, Plscr4, and MIAT are involved in myocardial hypertrophy, and MALAT1, wisper, MEG3, and H19 are involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) reconstitution. Signaling to specific miRNAs by acting as endogenous sponge (ceRNA) was the main form that regulates the target gene expression during cardiac remodeling. This review will underline the updates of lncRNAs and lncRNA-miRNA interactions in maladaptive remodeling and also cast light on their potential roles as therapeutic targets, hoping to provide supportive background for following research.
Comparison of Nonexposed Endoscopic Wall-Inversion Surgery with Endoscopic-Navigated Laparoscopic Wedge Resection for Gastric Submucosal Tumours: Results of a Two-Centre Study
Authors: Hajer Jan , Havlůj Lukáš , Kocián Petr , Klimbacher Günther , Shamiyeh Andreas , Gürlich Robert , Whitley Adam
Published: July 2019

Introduction. The aim of this study was to compare the indications, operative details, and clinical outcomes of nonexposed endoscopic wall-inversion surgery with endoscopic-navigated laparoscopic wedge resection of gastric submucosal tumours. Methods. Medical records were reviewed for patients who underwent nonexposed endoscopic wall-inversion surgery (NEWS) at the Faculty Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady and endoscopic-navigated laparoscopic wedge resection (LWR) at the Kepler University Hospital. Demographic, tumour, surgical, perioperative, and follow-up data were collected and compared. Results. Eleven patients underwent NEWS and twelve patients underwent LWR. NEWS was associated with a longer operating time and more frequent suture line bleeding (3 cases in the NEWS group versus 1 case in the LWR group). Negative resection margins were achieved in all NEWS procedures and in 11 of the LWRs. The difference in size between the tumour and the resected specimen was smaller in the NEWS group. Length of hospitalisation was similar between the two groups (NEWS=6.8 days, LWR=6.5 days). Follow-up gastroscopies at 12 months postoperatively revealed no signs of recurrence in any of the patients. Conclusion. Nonexposed endoscopic wall-inversion surgery is a new technique for the treatment of gastric tumours. It allows for more precise resections with more frequent achievement of negative resection margins than LWRs. Additionally, it may allow for better preservation of gastric function and limit communication between the gastric lumen and peritoneal cavity. The longer operating time and more frequent complications associated with the NEWS reflects the limited experience with these new techniques.
CAPN1 Variants as Cause of Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia Type 76
Authors: Garcia-Berlanga Jesus Eduardo , Moscovich Mariana , Palacios Isaac Jair , Banegas-Lagos Alejandro , Rojas-Martinez Augusto , Martinez-Ramirez Daniel
Published: July 2019

Background. Autosomal recessive hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSP) are a rare group of hereditary neurodegenerative disorders characterized by spasticity with or without other symptoms. SPG11 gene is the most common cause of autosomal recessive HSP. We report a case of autosomal recessive spastic paraplegia type 76 due to heterozygous variants of CAPN1 in an Argentinean subject. Case Presentation. A 38-year-old Argentinean female presented with progressive gait problems and instability of 15-year duration. Oculomotor abnormalities, ataxia, bradykinesia, cervical dystonia, and lower limb pyramidal signs were observed. Brain MRI was unremarkable. Whole-exome sequencing analysis identified two heterozygous variants in CAPN1. Conclusions. Clinicians should screen for CAPN1 mutation in a young female patient without significant family history with a spastic paraplegia syndrome associated with other symptoms.
Design of Augmented Nonlinear PD Controller of Delta/Par4-Like Robot
Authors: Humaidi Amjad J. , Abdulkareem Ahmed Ibraheem
Published: July 2019

This work presents the design of two control schemes for a Delta/Par4-like parallel robot: augmented PD (APD) controller and augmented nonlinear PD (ANPD) controller. The stability of parallel robot based on nonlinear PD controller has been analyzed and proved based on Lyapunov method. A comparison study between APD and ANPD controllers has been made in terms of performance and accuracy improvement of trajectory tracking. Also, another comparison study has been presented between augmented nonlinear PD (ANPD) controller and nonaugmented nonlinear PD (NANPD) controller in order to show the enhancement of introducing the augmented structure on dynamic performance and trajectory tracking accuracy. The effectiveness of augmented PD controllers (APD and ANPD) and nonaugmented nonlinear PD (NANPD) controller for the considered parallel robot are verified via simulation within the MATLAB environment.
Characterization of Clinical Isolates ofEnterococciwith Special Reference to Glycopeptide Susceptibility at a Tertiary Care Center of Eastern Nepal
Authors: Karna Aasish , Baral Ratna , Khanal Basudha
Published: July 2019

Background. Enterococci, once considered as a harmless commensal of intestine, have now emerged as medically important pathogens and are associated with both community-acquired and nosocomial infections. They bear the potential to exhibit resistance against all commonly used antibiotics either by inherent or acquired mechanism, posing a therapeutic challenge.Objectives. This study aimed to characterize enterococci up to the species level and study their antibiogram with special regard to vancomycin.Methods. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal, from February to May 2017. A total of 91 enterococcal isolates recovered from clinical specimens were investigated in this study. Their identification and speciation were done according to standard microbiological guidelines. Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion technique was used to study antimicrobial susceptibility pattern, whereas minimum inhibitory concentration of vancomycin was determined by the agar dilution method, with reference to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines.Results. Seven different species of enterococci were isolated,E. faecalisandE. faeciumaccounting about 45% each. The other species encountered wereE.avium,E.cecorum,E.dispar,E.durans, andE.raffinosus. Highest proportion of antimicrobial susceptibility was recorded for linezolid (97.8%), followed by teicoplanin (95.6%) and high-level gentamicin (81.3%). Sensitivity to vancomycin was seen in 79.1% isolates. Likewise, 82.1% of urinary strains were susceptible to nitrofurantoin. A total of 4 disparities were observed between the disc diffusion technique and agar dilution method in determining vancomycin resistance. Multidrug resistance was observed in 31.9% isolates. The overall prevalence of vancomycin-resistant enterococci based on the standard minimum inhibitory concentration method was 25.3%.Conclusions.Enterococcus faecalisandE. faeciumwere the predominant species in causing enterococcal infections. The alarming rise in prevalence of vancomycin and multidrug resistance strains warrants immediate, adequate, and efficient surveillance program to prevent and control its spread.
Dynamic Currency Futures and Options Hedging Model
Authors: Yu Xing , Li Yanyin , Wan Zhongkai
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we consider a risk averse competitive firm that adopts currency futures and options for hedging purpose. Based on the assumption of unbiased markets of currency futures and options, we propose the optimal hedging model in dynamic setting. By using two‐stage optimization method, we prove that it is desirable for the prudent enterprise to buy exchange rate options to hedge currency risk. Furthermore, we derive the closed‐form solutions of the multiperiod hedging problem with the quadratic utility function. We investigate an empirical study incorporated into GARCH‐t prediction on the efficiency of hedging with currency futures and options. The empirical results demonstrate that hedging with currency futures and options can reduce the silver export firm’s risk exposure. Profits and the effective boundaries are compared in three cases: hedging with futures and options synchronously, only with futures and without any hedge. The results of multiple comparisons among different hedging strategies show that hedging with linear and nonlinear derivatives is advisable for the export firm.
Big End Double-Layer Stents for the Treatment of Gastric Outlet Obstruction Caused by Stomach Cancer
Authors: Shi Ding , Wu Dong , Liu Yongpan , Ji Feng , Bao Yinsu
Published: July 2019

Objectives. This study is aimed at evaluating the efficacy and safety of the big end double-layer uncovered self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) for the treatment of gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) caused by distal stomach cancer.Methods. Seventy three patients receiving big end double-layer uncovered SEMS for the treatment of GOO caused by distal gastric cancer will be included in this multicenter prospective clinical trial. The main outcome measures included the functional outcome, the complications, the reinterventional rates, the average treatment charges, and the mean survival time. Monthly telephone calls were needed to assess the food intake until the patients died.Results. The technical and the clinical success rates were 98.6%. The stent obstruction caused by tumor ingrowth was observed in one patient (1.4%). The incidence of food impaction was 2.9% (2/70) and the reinterventional rate was 4.3% (3/70). However, stent migration and obstruction caused by overgrowth were not observed. No perforation and severe bleeding were observed. The median cost of endoscopic stenting and total hospitalization (including reinterventions) for the big end double-layer uncovered SEMS in this study was $2945 and $3408, respectively. The mean survival time was 212.5 days.Conclusions. The placement of big end double-layer uncovered SEMS is a safe and effective modality and has the potential to be one of the options for the treatment of GOO caused by the distal gastric cancer.
Optimization of the Production Parameters of Composites from Sugarcane Bagasse and Iron Salts for Use in Dye Adsorption
Authors: Pereira da Silva Carine , Oliveira da Guarda Souza Marluce , Lopes dos Santos Walter Nei , Oliveira Bastos Silva Laiana
Published: July 2019

In this study, mechanical mixtures of sugarcane bagasse and iron salts (nitrate, acetate, or a mixture of both) were subjected to thermal decomposition for producing iron oxide and carbonaceous composite materials, which were evaluated as adsorbents for removing dyes from water using methylene blue (MB) as a model system. Aiming to optimize the conditions for obtaining composite adsorbents, the Box-Behnken design (BBD) was used to study the effects of mass sugarcane bagasse/mass iron salt, type of mixture of sugarcane bagasse/iron salt, and temperature on the response to be obtained (adsorption capacity, qe) before the execution of the adsorption tests. The synthesized composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area analysis. The relationship between the characteristics of different materials, based on the processing of statistical data and the results of the adsorption tests, helped determine the routes that led to formation of composites with the most suitable properties for the removal of MB dye. Different phases, such as magnetite (Fe3O4) and/or maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) and iron carbide (Fe3C), were formed. The composites that presented the highest qe values were SB/IN 1:1 (600°C) and SB/IN-IA 1:2 (400°C). The first, which contained iron carbide (Fe3C), according to the XRD results, also showed larger BET surface area than the other composites. These properties may have contributed to the higher MB adsorption efficiency of this material in aqueous medium. The sample SB/IN-IA 1:2 (400°C) had lower specific area and was composed of magnetite and/or maghemite phases. In this case, the high qe was probably associated with the surface properties promoted by combination with the carbonaceous material, favoring interactions with MB.
Increased Plasma Levels of 8-Hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in Patients with Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma
Authors: Kondkar Altaf A. , Sultan Tahira , Azad Taif A. , Tabussum Lubna , Osman Essam A. , Al-Obeidan Saleh A.
Published: July 2019

Purpose. To investigate systemic oxidative stress-induced DNA damage in patients with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PXG), we estimated plasma levels of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) as a marker for oxidative DNA damage in comparison to controls. In addition, we also examined a combined effect of lysyl oxidase-like 1 (LOXL1) polymorphism status and 8-OHdG levels on PXG risk. Materials and Methods. A retrospective case-control study was performed to estimate plasma levels of 8-OHdG in 41 PXG patients and 45 nonglaucomatous controls using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The assay was performed in duplicate on an automated ELISA analyzer. Two common polymorphisms (rs1048661 and rs3835942) in LOXL1 gene were genotyped by Sanger sequencing. Results. The mean and median levels of 8-OHdG were significantly increased in the PXG cases (p=0.032) and male subjects (p=0.041). Subjects with levels greater than the third quartile (75% percentile) exhibited a significant increased risk of PXG (odds ratio = 4.06, 95% confidence interval (CI = 1.11–14.80, p=0.029)). Within- and between-group comparisons showed that the mean levels were higher in individuals carrying the LOXL1 risk variant (G/G), but not statistically significant. In logistic regression analysis, both 8-OHdG (p=0.044) and rs3835942 (p=0.012) showed a statistically significant effect on the PXG outcome. However, the effect was lost when age, sex, and rs1048661 were included. A significant positive correlation was observed between 8-OHdG levels and intraocular pressure (R=0.284, p=0.008) and cup/disc ratio (R=0.233, p=0.031). Furthermore, in receiver operating characteristic analysis, the area under the curve was statistically significant (p=0.032) with a value of 0.635 (95% CI = 0.518–0.751). Conclusion. The study demonstrates an association of increased plasma levels of 8-OHdG in patients with PXG, supporting the role of oxidative stress, and increased oxidative DNA damage in PXG development.
A Simplified Calculation Method for the Near‐Slope Laterally Loaded Pile Based on a Passive Wedge Model
Authors: Yang Minghui , Deng Bo , Wang Yuhui
Published: July 2019

When a pile is placed near the slope, the lateral loading capacity of the pile decreases significantly due to the weakening effect of soil resistance near the slope. As such, a modified soil passive wedge model for near‐slope laterally loaded piles is presented to consider the weakening effect in this paper. According to development depth of different wedges, the shapes of soil passive wedge can be classified into three sorts, so as to fully analyze the influence of the slope shape and the distance from the pile center to the slope crest. On this basis, a concept of equivalent depth is proposed considering the differences of laterally loaded piles near the slope and in the horizontal ground. Besides, the unit ultimate soil resistance, which can be obtained along the different depths of pile, is introduced into the p‐y curve of the soil, for achieving solution methods of internal force and displacement of laterally loaded piles under the slope weakening effect. The results of laboratory model and field tests on laterally loaded piles are compared with the proposed method, demonstrating its validity and accuracy. Furthermore, the influence of the near‐slope distance on the loading capacity of the pile is fully analyzed in detail, indicating the critical near‐slope distance is increasing with the increase of the undrained strength, while independent of the slope angle.
Helicobacter pyloriMutations Conferring Resistance to Fluoroquinolones and Clarithromycin among Dyspeptic Patients Attending a Tertiary Hospital, Tanzania
Authors: Jaka Hyasinta , Rüttgerodt Nele , Bohne Wolfgang , Mueller Andreas , Gross Uwe , Kasang Christa , Mshana Stephen E.
Published: July 2019

Objectives. Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) isolates resistant to clarithromycin and quinolones are increasing worldwide. Data regarding the magnitude ofH. pyloriresistance are limited in developing countries. Here, we report the prevalence of mutations conferring resistance to clarithromycin and fluoroquinolones among dyspeptic patients attending a tertiary hospital, Tanzania.Methods.Between August 2014 and August 2016, patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at the Bugando Medical Centre were enrolled. Biopsies were taken for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing to detect mutations conferring resistance to clarithromycin and fluoroquinolones.Results.A total of 208 nonrepetitive biopsies were examined of which 188 (90.4%) tested positive forH. pylorispecific 23S rRNA PCR. Clarithromycin resistance mutations were detected in 54/188 (28.7%) of patients tested. The most frequently detected mutation was A2143G (30) followed by A2142G (20). Out of 131 nonrepetitive biopsies tested for fluoroquinolones resistance mutations, 77/131 (58.8%) were positive, with N87I (20) mutation being the most frequently detected mutation followed by A92T mutation which was detected in 16 samples.Conclusion.A significant proportion of dyspeptic patients attending tertiary hospital in Tanzania are infected withH. pyloristrains harbouring clarithromycin or fluoroquinolones resistance mutations. Detection of more than 50% of strains with fluoroquinolones resistance mutations makes theH. pylorisecond line treatment questionable in our setting. There is a need of surveillance ofH. pyloriresistance patterns in Tanzania to provide data that can guide empirical treatment to reduce associated morbidity ofH. pyloriinfections. The correlation between A92T fluoroquinolone mutation and phenotypic resistance requires further investigations.
A Comprehensive Study on the Physicochemical Characteristics of Faecal Sludge in Greater Accra Region and Analysis of Its Potential Use as Feedstock for Green Energy
Authors: Ahmed Issahaku , Ofori-Amanfo Dennis , Awuah Esi , Cobbold Florence
Published: July 2019

Design of treatment plants for faecal sludge management systems relies on a comprehensive accurate knowledge of FS (faecal sludge) characteristics, but this information is lacking. Developing countries like Ghana, where large proportion of the urban population (Accra) rely on onsite sanitation systems, face a lot of FSM (faecal sludge management) design challenges as a result of lack of a comprehensive study data on physicochemical characteristics of raw faecal sludge after primary dewatering. Achieving a fully operational FSM chain would imply a well understanding of the characteristics of the FS and its dynamics after primary dewatering. A study was carried out to determine the characteristics of faecal sludge brought to the Lavender Hill treatment plant, Accra Metropolis, and environs to ensure the treatability and uses of the products after treatment. The treatment plant receives an average of 150 trucks (1350m3) a day with 58% coming from private homes and 42% from public toilets. Composite samples were made from both public and private toilets facilities. Samples were taken from a reservoir holding faecal sludge from both public and private facilities, examined on daily basis and characterized. The values obtained showed high concentrations of BOD and COD values. The COD: BOD ratios showed that the faecal sludge is not stabilized yet and can be further degraded. The calorific value for the dry sludge was found to be 15.16-15.82 MJ/kg and 16.39–18.31 MJ/kg for the wet sludge. The calorific value of the sludge is adequate enough to be used as potential feedstock for green energy generation. The high concentrations of COD and organic matter of the faecal sludge make it suitable enough for biogas generation. A good correlation (r=0.909,R2=82.6%) between the calorific value and the TVS was found to be CV=0.122TVS+7.44. Heavy metal concentrations were low and satisfied the EPA Ghana guidelines for sludge. Thus products from the treatment can be used for agricultural purposes.
Assumption-Free Assessment of Corpus Callosum Shape: Benchmarking and Application
Authors: Walsh Erin I. , Shaw Marnie E. , Oyarce Daniela A. Espinoza , Fraser Mark , Cherbuin Nicolas
Published: July 2019

Shape analysis provides a unique insight into biological processes. This paper evaluates the properties, performance, and utility of elliptical Fourier (eFourier) analysis to operationalise global shape, focussing on the human corpus callosum. 8000 simulated corpus callosum contours were generated, systematically varying in terms of global shape (midbody arch, splenium size), local complexity (surface smoothness), and nonshape characteristics (e.g., rotation). 2088 real corpus callosum contours were manually traced from the PATH study. Performance of eFourier was benchmarked in terms of its capacity to capture and then reconstruct shape and systematically operationalise that shape via principal components analysis. We also compared the predictive performance of corpus callosum volume, position in Procrustes-aligned Landmark tangent space, and position in eFourier n-dimensional shape space in relation to the Symbol Digit Modalities Test. Jaccard index for original vs. reconstructed from eFourier shapes was excellent (M=0.98). The combination of eFourier and PCA performed particularly well in reconstructing known n-dimensional shape space but was disrupted by the inclusion of local shape manipulations. For the case study, volume, eFourier, and landmark measures were all correlated. Mixed effect model results indicated all methods detected similar features, but eFourier estimates were most predictive, and of the two shape operationalization techniques had the least error and better model fit. Elliptical Fourier analysis, particularly in combination with principal component analysis, is a powerful, assumption-free and intuitive method of quantifying global shape of the corpus callosum and shows great promise for shape analysis in neuroimaging more broadly.