bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benchmark problems for dynamic modeling of intracellular processes
Authors: Hass Helge , Loos Carolin , Raimúndez-Álvarez Elba , Timmer Jens , Hasenauer Jan , Kreutz Clemens
Published: January 2019

Motivation

Dynamic models are used in systems biology to study and understand cellular processes like gene regulation or signal transduction. Frequently, ordinary differential equation (ODE) models are used to model the time and dose dependency of the abundances of molecular compounds as well as interactions and translocations. A multitude of computational approaches, e.g. for parameter estimation or uncertainty analysis have been developed within recent years. However, many of these approaches lack proper testing in application settings because a comprehensive set of benchmark problems is yet missing.

Results

We present a collection of 20 benchmark problems in order to evaluate new and existing methodologies, where an ODE model with corresponding experimental data is referred to as problem. In addition to the equations of the dynamical system, the benchmark collection provides observation functions as well as assumptions about measurement noise distributions and parameters. The presented benchmark models comprise problems of different size, complexity and numerical demands. Important characteristics of the models and methodological requirements are summarized, estimated parameters are provided, and some example studies were performed for illustrating the capabilities of the presented benchmark collection.

Availability and implementation

The models are provided in several standardized formats, including an easy-to-use human readable form and machine-readable SBML files. The data is provided as Excel sheets. All files are available at https://github.com/Benchmarking-Initiative/Benchmark-Models, including step-by-step explanations and MATLAB code to process and simulate the models.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
The effects of ASEAN treaties in domestic legal orders: Evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Phan Hao Duy
Published: January 2019

This article examines the effects of ASEAN treaties in the Vietnamese legal system. It demonstrates that, in addition to modifying domestic laws, ASEAN treaties, especially those adopted to promote regional economic integration, could also influence the domestic legal order by changing current administrative procedures, introducing new administrative mechanisms, and improving the overall operation of government agencies. This process may not be immediately discernible from an examination of changes in domestic laws; however, once the inquiry is broadened to include details of treaty implementation via administrative procedures, the impact of treaties comes into sharper focus. This impact of treaties on administrative procedures, while relatively easy to overlook, may represent the most important portion of the impact of ASEAN treaties on Vietnam’s legal order. More broadly, it also illuminates a larger point about the indirect, more subtle, and less visible influence that international law may exert on national law and procedures.
Finite-Dimensional Representations of Yangians in Complex Rank
Authors: Kalinov Daniil
Published: January 2019

We classify the “finite-dimensional” irreducible representations of the Yangians $Y(\mathfrak{g}\mathfrak{l}_t)$ and $Y(\mathfrak{s}\mathfrak{l}_t)$. These are associative ind-algebras in the Deligne category $\textrm{Rep}(GL_t)$, which generalize the regular Yangians $Y(\mathfrak{g}\mathfrak{l}_n)$ and $Y(\mathfrak{s}\mathfrak{l}_n)$ to complex rank. They were first defined in the paper [14]. Here we solve [14, Problem 7.2]. We work with the Deligne category $\textrm{Rep}(GL_t)$ using the ultraproduct approach introduced in [7] and [16].
Recreational physical activity context and type preferences among male and female Emirati university students
Authors: Doyle C B , Khan A , Burton N W
Published: January 2019

Background

This study assessed recreational physical activity type and context preferences of Emirati university students.

Method

This was a cross-sectional study in which a stratified random sample (n=628) (female 69.1%, male 30.9% mean age 20.79±3.81 y) completed an online survey. Relationships between gender and preferences were assessed using regression analysis, adjusted for body mass index and age.

Results

Activities with a fun element were the most preferred context (87.1%). Walking (66.7%) and swimming (61.7%) were the most preferred activity types. Males had significantly higher odds of preferring competitive activities, and activity types such as football, fitness/weights and jogging. Females had significantly higher odds of preferring activities with people of the same gender, with supervision and done at home, and activity types such as walking, aerobics, cycling, squash and yoga.

Conclusion

These results can inform physical activity planning for university students in the United Arab Emirates. Fun activity opportunities involving walking or swimming and in the local neighbourhood may be popular for both males and females. Future research could explore uptake and maintenance of activity options, based on preferred activity attributes.
Use of mind maps and iterative decision trees to develop a guideline-based clinical decision support system for routine surgical practice: case study in thyroid nodules
Authors: Yu Hyeong Won , Hussain Maqbool , Afzal Muhammad , Ali Taqdir , Choi June Young , Han Ho-Seong , Lee Sungyoung
Published: January 2019

Objective

The study sought to develop a clinical decision support system (CDSS) for the treatment of thyroid nodules, using a mind map and iterative decision tree (IDT) approach to the integration of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs).

Materials and Methods

Thyroid nodule CPGs of the American Thyroid Association and Korean Thyroid Association were analyzed by endocrine surgeons (domain experts) and computer scientists. Clinical knowledge from the CPGs was expressed using mind maps. The mind maps were analyzed and converted into IDTs. The final IDT was implemented as a set of candidate rules (3700) for a knowledge-based CDSS. The system was evaluated via a retrospective review of the medical records of 483 patients who had undergone thyroidectomy between January and December 2015 at a single tertiary center (Seoul National University Hospital Bundang, Korea).

Results

Concordance between CDSS recommendations and treatment in routine clinical practice was 78.9%. In the 21.1% discordant cases, deviation from the CDSS treatment recommendation was mainly attributable to (1) refusal of the patient to undergo total thyroidectomy and (2) conversion from lobectomy to total thyroidectomy following an unexpected histological finding during intraoperative frozen biopsy lymph node analysis.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated that a knowledge-based CDSS is feasible in the treatment of thyroid nodules. A high-quality knowledge-based CDSS was developed, and medical domain and computer scientists collaborated effectively in an integrated development environment. The mind map and IDT approach represents a pioneering method of integrating knowledge from CPGs.
Organizational Dissolutions in the Public Sector: An Empirical Analysis of Municipal Utility Water Districts
Authors: Moldogaziev Tima T , Scott Tyler A , Greer Robert A
Published: January 2019

The proliferation of special-purpose districts and the increasing complexity of local governance systems has been well documented. However, even as new special districts are created, others are being dissolved. This article investigates the extent to which both internal and external factors are at play in municipal utility district dissolutions. Decades of existing empirical studies on private, nonprofit, and interest organizations show that factors internal to organizations, such as institutional structure and resources are significant covariates of organizational mortality. Equally important are external factors, where density dependence and resource partitioning pressures influence organizational survival. Public sector organizations, such as special-purpose water districts, operate in relatively well monitored and statutorily constrained environments, however. Drawing upon the organizational mortality literature, we examine when and why municipal utility water districts that operate in fragmented service delivery systems dissolve. The results show that the relationship between internal and external organizational variables and special-purpose organizational dissolutions is more nuanced than existing research suggests.
New luminous blue variable candidates in NGC 4736
Authors: Solovyeva Y , Vinokurov A , Fabrika S , Kostenkov A , Sholukhova O , Sarkisyan A , Valeev A , Atapin K , Spiridonova O , Moskvitin A , Nikolaeva E
Published: January 2019

We have found three new luminous blue variable (LBV) candidates in the star-forming galaxy NGC 4736. They show typical well-known LBV spectra, broad and strong hydrogen lines, He i lines, many Fe ii lines, and forbidden [Fe ii] and [Fe iii]. Using archival Hubble Space Telescope and ground-based telescope data, we have estimated the bolometric magnitudes of these objects from −8.4 to −11.5, temperatures, and reddening. Source NGC 4736_1 (M$v$ = −10.2 ± 0.1 mag) demonstrated variability between 2005 and 2018 as ΔV ≈ 1.1 mag and ΔB ≈ 0.82 mag; the object belongs to LBV stars. NGC 4736_2 (M$v$ < −8.6 mag) shows P Cyg profiles and its spectrum has changed from 2015 to 2018. The brightness variability of NGC 4736_2 is ΔV ≈ 0.5 mag and ΔB ≈ 0.4 mag. In NGC 4736_3 (M$v$ = −8.2 ± 0.2 mag), we found strong nebular lines, broad wings of hydrogen; the brightness variation is only ≈0.2 mag. Therefore, the last two objects may reside to LBV candidates.
Gender Differences in the Prevalence and Characteristics of Pain in Spain: Report from a Population-Based Study
Authors: Jiménez-Trujillo Isabel , López-de-Andrés Ana , del Barrio José Luis , Hernández-Barrera Valentín , Valero-de-Bernabé Marisa , Jiménez-García Rodrigo
Published: January 2019

Objective

To assess the prevalence and characteristics of chronic neck pain, chronic low back pain, and migraine or frequent headaches among Spanish adults in 2014 according to gender, to identify predictors for each of these types of pains, and to compare the prevalence with those found in 2009.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Spain.

Methods

We used data collected from the 2014 European Health Interview Survey (N = 22,842). Sociodemographic features, self-rated health status, lifestyle habits, comorbid conditions, pain characteristics, and self-reported use of medications were analyzed.

Results

The prevalence of all types of pain was significantly higher among women than men. For chronic neck pain, the figures were 25.68% vs 12.54%, for chronic low back pain, 27.03% vs 18.83%, and for migraine or frequent headaches, 15.93% vs 6.74%, in women and men, respectively. Predictors of these types of pain included female gender, advanced age, poor self-rated health, psychological distress, comorbidities, and obesity. The prevalence of neck pain and low back pain increased from 2009 to 2014 for both sexes, and the prevalence of migraine or frequent headaches remained stable over time.

Conclusions

The prevalence and intensity of all the forms of chronic pain were higher among women. Women experiencing pain used prescribed medications for pain, anxiety, and/or depression and sleeping pills more than men. The prevalence of chronic neck and low back has increased in the last five years in Spain, and the prevalence of migraine or frequent headaches has remained stable.
Maternal Mortality in 19th- and Early 20th-century Italy
Authors: Manfredini Matteo , Breschi Marco , Fornasin Alessio , Mazzoni Stanislao , De lasio Sergio , Coppa Alfredo
Published: January 2019

Although dramatically reduced in Western and developed countries, maternal mortality is still today one of the most relevant social and health scourges in developing countries. This is the reason why high levels of maternal mortality are always interpreted as a sign of low living standards, ignorance, poverty and woman discrimination. Maternal mortality represents, therefore, a very peculiar characteristic of demographic systems of ancien regime. Despite this important role in demographic systems, no systematic study has been addressed to investigate the impact of maternal mortality in historical Italy. The aim of this article is to shed some light on such a phenomenon by investigating its trend over time and the determinants in some Italian populations between the 18th and the early 20th centuries. The analysis will make use of civil and parish registers linked together by means of nominative techniques, and it will be, therefore, carried out at the micro level.
GToTree: a user-friendly workflow for phylogenomics
Authors: Lee Michael D.
Published: January 2019

Genome-level evolutionary inference (i.e., phylogenomics) is becoming an increasingly essential step in many biologists’ work - such as in the characterization of newly recovered genomes, or in leveraging available reference genomes to guide evolutionary questions. Accordingly, there are several tools available for the major steps in a phylogenomics workflow. But for the biologist whose main focus is not bioinformatics, much of the computational work required - such as accessing genomic data on large scales, integrating genomes from different file formats, performing required filtering, stitching different tools together, etc. - can be prohibitive. Here I introduce GToTree, a command-line tool that can take any combination of fasta files, GenBank files, and/or NCBI assembly accessions as input and outputs an alignment file, estimates of genome completeness and redundancy, and a phylogenomic tree based on the specified singlecopy gene (SCG) set. While GToTree can work with any custom hidden Markov Models (HMMs), also included are 13 newly generated SCG-set HMMs for different lineages and levels of resolution, built based on searches of ~12,000 bacterial and archaeal high-quality genomes. GToTree aims to give more researchers the capability to make phylogenomic trees.

Availability

GToTree is open-source and freely available for download from: github.com/AstrobioMike/GToTree

Documentation

github.com/AstrobioMike/GToTree/wiki

Implementation

GToTree is implemented primarily in bash, with helper scripts written in Python.

Contact

Mike.Lee@nasa.gov
The proteome of Tetrasphaera elongata is adapted to changing conditions in wastewater treatment plants
Authors: Herbst Florian-Alexander , Dueholm Morten S. , Wimmer Reinhard , Halkjær Nielsen Per
Published: January 2019

The activated sludge in wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) designed for enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) experiences periodically changing nutrient and oxygen availability. Tetrasphaera is the most abundant genus in Danish WWTP and represent up to 20-30% of the activated sludge community based on 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and quantitative fluorescence in situ hybridization analyses, although it is in low abundance in the influent wastewater. Here we investigate how Tetrasphaera can successfully out-compete most other microorganisms in such highly dynamic ecosystems. To achive this, we analyze the physiological adaptations of the WWTP isolate T. elongata str. LP2 during an aerobic to anoxic shift by label-free quantitative proteomics and NMR-metabolomics. Escherichia coli was used as reference organism as it shares several metabolic capabilities and is regularly introduced to wastewater treatment plants, but without succeeding there. When compared to E. coli, only minor changes in the proteome of T. elongata were observed after the switch to anoxic conditions. This indicates that metabolic pathways for anaerobic energy harvest were already expressed during the aerobic growth. This allows continuous growth of Tetrasphaera immediately after the switch to anoxic conditions. Metabolomics furthermore revealed that the substrates provided were exploited far more efficiently by Tetrasphaera than by E. coli. These results suggest that T. elongata prosper in the dynamic WWTP environment due to adaptation to the changing environmental conditions.

Significance of the study

Members of the genus Tetrasphaera are widely distributed and highly abundant in most well-operating WWTPs with EBPR configuration. However, despite their high abundance in situ, little is known about their physiology and ecological role. Although the importance of Tetrasphaera in engineered wastewater treatment systems is slowly being recognized, additional information is needed to understand the full extent of functions the microorganisms have in many of the essential biological processes in the WWTP. Such information may improve available process models and ultimately lead to better wastewater treatment as well as resource recovery. This study supplies proteomic and metabolomic data on the aerobic/anoxic adaptation of Tetrasphaera and provides a hypothesis on how Tetrasphaera might compete in dynamic engineered systems.
Phase transitions in neutron stars
Authors: Dexheimer V. , Soethe L. T. T. , Roark J. , Gomes R. O. , Kepler S. O. , Schramm S.
Published: January 2019

In this paper, we review the most common descriptions for the first-order phase transition to deconfined quark matter in the core of neutron stars. We also present a new description of these phase transitions in the core of proto-neutron stars, in which more constraints are enforced so as to include trapped neutrinos. Finally, we calculate the emission of gravitational waves associated with deconfinement phase transitions, discuss the possibility of their detection, and how this would provide information about the equation of state of dense matter.
THE ANTECEDENTS OF DYNAMIC SERVICE INNOVATION CAPABILITIES: THE MODERATING ROLES OF MARKET DYNAMISM AND MARKET ORIENTATION
Authors: WU WANN YIH , NGUYEN PHUOC THIEN
Published: January 2019

Due to the dynamic changing environment, firms have to continuously promote novelty and variety. Particularly in the service sector, the concept of dynamic service innovation capability (DSIC) has created a lot of attention. Five major dimensions including sensing customer needs, sensing technological options, conceptualising ideas to practices, co-producing and orchestrating, and scaling and stretching, have been identified as some of the most important factors to win competitive advantages. However, empirical validations regarding the generalisability of DSIC constructs and its influences on service innovation, competitive advantage and organisational performance are still limited. Using a questionnaire survey approach, data were obtained from 258 respondents who are executive managers of convenient stores, supermarkets, home shopping, retailed, etc. The results concluded that learning orientation, knowledge resources and relationship-based assets are three of the major antecedents that can promote DSIC. Service innovation, competitive advantage, and organisational performance are the major consequences of DSIC. Furthermore, market dynamism and market orientation can serve as two of the moderators to strengthen the influences of DSIC on service innovation, competitive advantage and organisational performance.
INNOVATION INVESTMENT: BEHAVIOUR OF CHINESE FIRMS TOWARDS FINANCING SOURCES
Authors: KHAN MUHAMMAD KALEEM , KALEEM AHMAD , ZULFIQAR SALMAN , AKRAM UMAIR
Published: January 2019

Although the extant literature on corporate finance has largely focused on capital investments, relatively less attention has been paid to identify how research and development (R&D) related investments are financed. This study empirically tests the relationship between the different financing sources used by firms and their intensity of R&D in the rapidly growing economy of China. Furthermore, we posit that the firm’s choice to adopt the finance source for R&D will change if the firm is likely to be in financial constraints. This study finds out an empirical evidence that internally generated cash flows, bank debt, and seasonal public offerings (SPOs) stipulate a positive impact on R&D of Chinese firms, whereas the issuance of bond impacts it negatively. The study also confirms that financially constrained firms perceive the impact of financing sources on their R&D differently than non-financially constrained firms do. Results also slightly differ between high-tech and non-high-tech firms.
EFFECTUATION VS. CAUSATION: CAN ESTABLISHED FIRMS USE START-UP DECISION-MAKING PRINCIPLES TO STAY INNOVATIVE?
Authors: HENNINGER PASCAL , BREM ALEXANDER , GIONES FERRAN , BICAN PETER M. , WIMSCHNEIDER CHRISTINE
Published: January 2019

More and more, established companies try to cooperate with start-ups, build their own, or try to imitate their mindsets. But, do they make decisions like expert entrepreneurs? Effectuation theory describes entrepreneurial decision-making, it has been popular in entrepreneurship research for the last two decades, but still underexplored in contexts such as established company’s decision-making. Therefore, this study answers the question of which factors affect the use of effectuation in established companies. Furthermore, the current use of the start-up decision-making principle is investigated. The research results show a higher use of effectuation over causation (alternative mechanism) in established companies. However, decision-making principles like “Mean orientation” and “Contingency orientation” are still dominated by causation. Identified factors for implementing effectuation in established companies are divided into six categories. In particular, effectuation requires a high flexibility and willingness to change goals. Using the already available means and resources of a company to pursue new goals, is another argument for using effectuation. Additionally, a more open and transparent culture, encouraging the identification and admittance of mistakes, also supports the use of effectuation. Based on this research, established companies should be able to understand better on which factors the implementation of effectuation depends and where it makes sense to use it.
SYNERGY OR CONFLICT? THE RELATIONSHIPS AMONG ORGANISATIONAL CULTURE, SUSTAINABILITY-RELATED INNOVATION PERFORMANCE, AND ECONOMIC INNOVATION PERFORMANCE
Authors: GLOBOCNIK DIETFRIED , RAUTER ROMANA , BAUMGARTNER RUPERT J.
Published: January 2019

Despite the growing pressure to become more sustainable and the availability of managerial practices, organisations still struggle with being innovative without neglecting sustainability concerns. This paper approaches this issue from two perspectives: First, the organisations’ cultural DNA is assumed to explain differences in the sustainability-related innovation performance of firms. Drawing on the competing values framework, this research examines whether certain cultural types predispose some organisations to perform better. Second, the skepticism among managers about the economic benefits of sustainability-related innovation holds organisations back to consider sustainability concern in their innovation activities. Thus, the relationship between sustainability-related innovation performance and economic innovation performance is investigated to clarify whether they represent conflicting goals. Using multiple-respondent data of a cross-sectional firm sample and a comprehensive measure of sustainability-related innovation performance, the empirical data show that clan cultures have a negative influence on sustainability-related innovation performance, whereas hierarchy and adhocracy cultures exert positive effects. Furthermore, sustainability-related innovation performance has a moderately positive effect on economic innovation performance.
Bufei Jianpi Granules Reduce Quadriceps Muscular Cell Apoptosis by Improving Mitochondrial Function in Rats with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Mao Jing , Li Ya , Li Suyun , Li Jiansheng , Tian Yange , Feng Suxiang , Liu Xuefang , Bian Qingqing , Li Junzi , Hu Yuanyuan , Zhang Lanxi , Ji Huige
Published: January 2019

Background. Cell apoptosis is an important mechanism underlying skeletal muscle dysfunction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients, and mitochondrial dysfunction is recognized as a central aspect contributing to skeletal muscle deterioration. Bufei Jianpi granules have been confirmed effective for improving motor function in COPD patients, but the specific mechanism for this improved function remains unknown. This study explored the mechanisms by which Bufei Jianpi granules improve cell apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction in COPD. Methods. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into control, model, Bufei Jianpi, and aminophylline groups. A stable COPD rat model was induced with respective repeated cigarette smoke inhalation and intragastric bacterial infection, and rats were sacrificed after 20 weeks; the quadriceps muscle was harvested from each rat. Skeletal muscle mitochondria were extracted for measurements of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and mitochondrial permeability transition pore openings (mPTPs). ATP levels were determined with a firefly luciferase-based ATP assay kit. The rates of cell apoptosis were determined by the transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) method. Cyto C and caspase-3 mRNA and protein levels were measured by qPCR and western blotting. Results. ATP, MMP, and mPTPs were markedly decreased in COPD rats, while cell apoptosis, caspase-3, and Cyto C were increased (P<0.01). All aforementioned parameters were improved in treatment groups (P<0.05). ATP, MMP, and mPTPs were significantly higher in the Bufei Jianpi group than in the aminophylline group, while cell apoptosis, caspase-3, and Cyto C were lower (P<0.05). Conclusions. Bufei Jianpi granules can inhibit mitochondrial dysfunction and cell apoptosis in peripheral muscles, which might be the mechanism involved in improving skeletal muscle function in COPD patients.
A New Stability Analysis of Uncertain Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Wang Xiao , Ning Yufu
Published: January 2019

This paper first provides a concept of almost sure stability for uncertain delay differential equations and analyzes this new sort of stability. In addition, this paper derives three sufficient conditions for uncertain delay differential equations being stable almost surely. Finally, the relationship between almost sure stability and stability in measure for uncertain delay differential equations is discussed.
Network Pharmacology Integrated Molecular Docking Reveals the Antiosteosarcoma Mechanism of Biochanin A
Authors: Luo Qing , Shi Xuan , Ding Jiarong , Ma Zhenzhen , Chen Xumei , Leng Yuanxiu , Zhang Xuhui , Liu Yang
Published: January 2019

Background. As the malignant tumor with the highest incidence in teenagers, osteosarcoma has become a major problem in oncology research. In addition to surgical management, the pharmacotherapeutic strategy for osteosarcoma treatment is an attractive way to explore. It has been demonstrated that biochanin A has an antitumor capacity on multiple kinds of solid tumor, including osteosarcoma. But the precise mechanism of biochanin A against osteosarcoma is still needed to be discovered.Objective. To identify the potential therapeutic targets of biochanin A in treating osteosarcoma.Methods. In present study, an integrated approach including network pharmacology and molecular docking technique was conducted, which mainly comprises target prediction, network construction, gene ontology, and pathway enrichment. CCK8 test was employed to evaluate the cell viability of MG63 cells. Western-blot was used to verify the target proteins of biochanin A.Results. Ninety-six and 114 proteins were obtained as the targets of biochanin A and osteosarcoma, respectively. TP53, IGF1, JUN, BGLAP, ATM, MAPK1, ATF3, H2AFX, BAX, CDKN2A, and EGF were identified as the potential targets of biochanin A against osteosarcoma. Based on the western-blot detection, the expression of BGLAP, BAX, and ATF3 in MG63 cell line changed under the treatment of biochanin A.Conclusion. Biochanin A can effectively suppress the proliferation of osteosarcoma and regulate the expression of BGLAP, BAX, and ATF3, which may act as the potential therapeutic targets of osteosarcoma.
Multitarget Parameter Estimation of Monopulse Radar Based on RJ‐MCMC Algorithm
Authors: Gong Jian , Guo Yiduo , Yuan Hui , Wan Qun
Published: January 2019

A multiple parameter estimation method based on RJ‐MCMC for multiple nondiscernible targets is proposed in this paper. Different from the traditional estimation methods, the proposed method can simultaneously complete the joint estimation of the target number and the target location parameters. More importantly, the method proposed in this chapter is applicable to many situations with different power and nondistinguishable target. The simulation results show that the method proposed in this chapter requires less observation time to obtain similar and even better estimation performance than the ML‐MDL method, which is of great significance for real‐time processing.
Perinephric Hematoma with Active Arterial Hemorrhage following Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy
Authors: Assaf Edward , Abou Zahr Rawad , Ghabi Elie , Ghantous Imad
Published: January 2019

Subcapsular hematoma is an exceedingly rare complication of extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) for renal stones with cases demonstrating evidence of active arterial bleeding even more so. A 49-year-old male presented with acute onset right flank pain two hours following ESWL. CT scan with contrast revealed active contrast extravasation consistent with arterial bleeding. The patient was managed with arterial embolization and recovered uneventfully following a 4-day hospitalization.
Study on Modal Dynamic Response and Hydrodynamic Added Mass of Water‐Surrounded Hollow Bridge Pier with Pile Foundation
Authors: Deng Yulin , Guo Qingkang , Shah Yasir Ibrahim , Xu Lueqin
Published: January 2019

This article presents an experiment program conducted to study the modal dynamic response of hollow bridge pier with pile foundation submerged in water. The forced vibration method was applied on a specimen designated with four levels of tip mass; and the dynamic characteristics of the first four lateral vibration modes of the specimen, including the first two modes along the x‐axis and the first two modes along the y‐axis, were tested for three different cases where the specimen contacts with only outer water, only inner water, and both outer and inner water, respectively. Finite element models were established using potential‐based fluid elements in accordance with the three different cases. The effects of fluid‐structure interaction on the dynamic characteristics of the first four lateral modes of the specimen were then investigated through numerical simulations, and the finite element models were verified by validating numerical results against the experimental data. Based on the verified models, hydrodynamic added mass (HAM) and modal hydrodynamic added mass (MHAM) along the x‐axis and y‐axis of the specimen, induced by fluid‐structure interaction, were studied with respect to the three cases. According to the distribution of modal acceleration and hydrodynamic pressure along the pier body, hydrodynamic added mass (HAM) distribution along the pier body was analyzed, and a simplified analytical model which equals the original fluid‐structure numerical model was proposed to determine the dynamic characteristics of hollow bridge piers submerged in water. The research provides a better understanding of the effect of fluid‐structure interaction on the modal dynamic response of deep‐water bridges with hollow piers.
The Functions and Mechanism of a New Oligopeptide BP9 from Avian Bursa on Antibody Responses, Immature B Cell, and Autophagy
Authors: Feng Xiu Li , Zong Man Man , Zhou Guang Fang , Zheng Yang , Yu Yuan Nan , Cao Rui Bing , Chen Pu Yan , Yang Mei
Published: January 2019

The bursa of Fabricius is an acknowledged central humoral immune organ unique to birds, which is vital to B cell differentiation and antibody production. However, the function and mechanism of the biological active peptide isolated from bursa on B cell development and autophagy were less reported. In this study, we isolated a new oligopeptide with nine amino acids Leu-Met-Thr-Phe-Arg-Asn-Glu-Gly-Thr from avian bursa following RP-HPLC, MODIL-TOP-MS, and MS/MS, which was named after BP9. The results of immunization experiments showed that mice injected with 0.01 and 0.05 mg/mL BP9 plus JEV vaccine generated the significant increased antibody levels, compared to those injected with JEV vaccine only. The microarray analysis on the molecular basis of BP9-treated immature B cell showed that vast genes were involved in various immune-related biological processes in BP9-treated WEHI-231 cells, among which the regulation of cytokine production and T cell activation were both major immune-related processes in WEHI-231 cells with BP9 treatment following network analysis. Also, the differentially regulated genes were found to be involved in four significantly enriched pathways in BP9-treated WEHI-231 cells. Finally, we proved that BP9 induced the autophagy formation, regulated the gene and protein expressions related to autophagy in immature B cell, and stimulated AMPK-ULK1 phosphorylation expression. These results suggested that BP9 might be a strong bursal-derived active peptide on antibody response, B cell differentiation, and autophagy in immature B cells, which provided the linking among humoral immunity, B cell differentiation, and autophagy and offered the important reference for the effective immunotherapeutic strategies and immune improvement.
Adaptive Neural Network‐Based Satellite Attitude Control by Using the Dynamic Inversion Technique and a VSCMG Pyramidal Cluster
Authors: Lungu Mihai , Lungu Romulus
Published: January 2019

The paper presents an adaptive system for the control of small satellites’ attitude by using a pyramidal cluster of four variable‐speed control moment gyros as actuators. Starting from the dynamic model of the pyramidal cluster, an adaptive control law is designed by means of the dynamic inversion method and a feed‐forward neural network‐based nonlinear subsystem; the control law has a proportional‐integrator component (for the control of the reduced‐order linear subsystem) and an adaptive component (for the compensation of the approximation error associated with the function describing the dynamics of the nonlinear system). The software implementation and validation of the new control architecture are achieved by using the Matlab/Simulink environment.
Predictive Value of Diminished Serum PDGF-BB after Curative Resection of Hepatocellular Cancer
Authors: Aryal Bibek , Yamakuchi Munekazu , Shimizu Toshiaki , Kadono Jun , Furoi Akira , Gejima Kentaro , Komokata Teruo , Koriyama Chihaya , Hashiguchi Teruto , Imoto Yutaka
Published: January 2019

Purpose. Platelet derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) has emerged as one of the key cytokines in malignant transformation of different cells. PDGF-BB also exhibits a potent mitogenic effect on liver cells; studies have advocated clinical implications of monitoring serum PDGF-BB (sPDGF-BB) in patients with liver disease. We thus investigated the predictive relevance of perioperative sPDGF-BB after curative resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods. We evaluated perioperative sPDGF-BB in a prospective homogenous cohort of 40 patients diagnosed with HCC. During the first two-year follow-up, patients were evaluated every three months for postresection HCC recurrence. Results. Patients who developed recurrence during two-year follow-up were found to have lower concentration of sPDGF-BB than those without recurrence in both pre- and postoperative settings (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, resp.). We validated that the reduced postoperative sPDGF-BB (< 2133.29 pg/mL) was associated with an increased incidence of postresection HCC recurrence [area under curve (AUC) > 0.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.68 - 0.94, P < 0.001]; furthermore, we were able to demonstrate that postoperative sPDGF-BB was an independent predictor of HCC recurrence (hazard ratio = 5.64, 95% CI = 1.56 - 20.30, P < 0.01). Conclusions. These findings provide a new insight into an association between diminished perioperative sPDGF-BB and HCC recurrence. Patients with low perioperative sPDGF-BB progressed early HCC recurrence. Therefore, evaluating perioperative sPDGF-BB may provide useful clinical information to characterize patients with postresection HCC recurrence.
Neonatal Streptococcus pneumoniae Pneumonia Induces an Aberrant Airway Smooth Muscle Phenotype and AHR in Mice Model
Authors: Peng Xin , Wu Yi , Kong Xiao , Chen Yunxiu , Tian Yonglu , Li Qinyuan , Tian Xiaoyin , Zhang Guangli , Ren Luo , Luo Zhengxiu
Published: January 2019

Our previous study showed that neonatal S. pneumoniae infection aggravated airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in an OVA-induced allergic asthma model. As airway smooth muscle (ASM) plays a pivotal role in AHR development, we aim to investigate the effects of neonatal S. pneumoniae pneumonia on ASM structure and AHR development. Non-lethal neonatal pneumonia was established by intranasally infecting 1-week-old BALB/C mice with the S. pneumoniae strain D39. Five weeks after infection, the lungs were collected to assess the levels of α-SMA and the contractile proteins of ASM. Our results indicate that neonatal S. pneumoniae pneumonia significantly increased adulthood lung α-SMA and SMMHC proteins production and aggravated airway inflammatory cells infiltration and cytokines release. In addition, the neonatal S. pneumoniae pneumonia group had significantly higher Penh values compared to the uninfected controls. These data suggest that neonatal S. pneumoniae pneumonia promoted an aberrant ASM phenotype and AHR development in mice model.
Effects of a New Combination of Medical Food on Endothelial Function and Lipid Profile in Dyslipidemic Subjects: A Pilot Randomized Trial
Authors: Landi Francesco , Martone Anna Maria , Salini Sara , Zazzara Beatrice , Calvani Riccardo , Marzetti Emanuele , Nesci Antonio , Di Giorgio Angela , Giupponi Bianca , Santoro Luca , Santoliquido Angelo
Published: January 2019

Nutritional approaches to improve dyslipidemias have been recently developed, but evidences on different medical foods are often incomplete. The main aim of our study was to evaluate the effects on endothelial function, lipid profile, and glucose metabolism of two different combinations of nutraceuticals, first one containing Bergavit (200 mg Citrus bergamia), Omega-3 (400 mg), Crominex 3+ (10 mcg trivalent chromium), and red yeast rice (100 mg; 5 mg monacolin K) and second one containing red yeast rice (200 mg; 3 mg monacolin K), Berberine (500 mg), Astaxanthin (0.5 mg), folic acid (200 mcg), Coenzyme Q10 (2 mg), and Policosanol (10 mg). Fifty subjects affected by dyslipidemia not requiring statin treatment were enrolled in this randomized, blind, controlled trial and submitted to blood sampling for lipid and glucose profiles and instrumental evaluation of endothelial function before and after 6 weeks of treatment with nutraceuticals. Both nutraceutical combinations improved the lipid profile; the nutraceutical containing 5 mg of monacolin K, 200 mg of the extract Citrus bergamia, 400 mg of Omega-3, and 10 mcg of trivalent chromium entailed a significant improvement of endothelial function with enhanced cholesterol lowering effect. In conclusion, this study confirms the positive effect of functional food on lipid profile and endothelial function in absence of major undesirable effects.
Natural Killer Response and Lipo-Metabolic Profile in Adults with Low HDL-Cholesterol and Mild Hypercholesterolemia: Beneficial Effects of Artichoke Leaf Extract Supplementation
Authors: Rondanelli M. , Castellazzi A. M. , Riva A. , Allegrini P. , Faliva M. A. , Peroni G. , Naso M. , Nichetti M. , Tagliacarne C. , Valsecchi C. , Fazia T. , Perna S. , Graziano F. , Grassi M. , Bernardinelli L.
Published: January 2019

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effects of 60-day artichoke leaf extract (ALE) supplementation (250mg, twice daily) on cytokines levels, natural killer cell (NK) response, and lipo-metabolic profile (HDL, LDL, and total-cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), ApoB, ApoA, lipid accumulation product (LAP), glucose, insulin, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR)) in twenty adults (9/11 males/females, age=49.10 ± 13.74 years, and BMI=33.12 ± 5.14 kg/m2) with low HDL-C and mild hypercholesterolemia. Hierarchical generalized linear model, adjusted for sex, BMI, and age, has been used to evaluate pre-post treatment changes. A significant increase for HDL-C (β=0.14, p=0.0008) and MCP-1 (β=144.77, p=0.004) and a significant decrease for ApoB/ApoA (β=-0.07, p=0.03), total-C/HDL-C ratio (β=-0.58, p<0.001), and NK response at stimulus low (β=0.43, p=0.04), medium (β=0.40, p<0.001), and high (β=0.42, p=0.001) have been found. These results support the benefits of ALE supplementation on metabolic profile.
Sjögren’s Syndrome: Concerted Triggering of Sicca Conditions
Authors: Mackiewicz Zygmunt , Mażul Justyna , Narkevičiūtė Ieva , Dumalakienė Irena , Butrimienė Irena , Vilienė Rita , Stankevičienė Indrė , Mieliauskaitė Diana
Published: January 2019

Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of persistence of mumps virus and some cells that interact with viral infection in the focus of the autoimmune epithelitis and peripheral blood of Sjögren’s syndrome patients in comparison to patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and nonautoimmune sicca syndrome (nSS). Materials and Methods. 126 patients (119 women and 7 men) were grouped into four groups: (1) patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS), (2) patients with secondary Sjögren’s syndrome due to rheumatoid arthritis (sSS), (3) patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and (4) patients with nonautoimmune sicca syndrome (nSS). Immunohistochemical analysis of immune response to the suggested silent persistence of mumps virus in the minor labial salivary gland biopsies and flow cytometric analysis of blood cells was done. Results. Immunohistochemical signs of mumps virus persistence were found in the minor salivary glands of all study groups. Also, a significantly different immune response to virus infection (protein IFI16, interferons gamma and beta, dendritic cells, and receptor for natural killers) was revealed in the minor salivary glands of the study groups. Cytometric analysis of the blood cells revealed a dropping amount of circulating natural killers and dendritic cells in patients with SS. Significant correlations between immunohistochemical staining and serological findings were revealed. Conclusions. Abundant immunohistochemical signs of mumps virus protein in the salivary glands and depletion of circulating immune cells make a background for thought of presumable mumps or/and other virus participation in epithelial damage causing sicca syndrome in predisposed patients.
A Century of Topological Coevolution of Complex Infrastructure Networks in an Alpine City
Authors: Zischg Jonatan , Klinkhamer Christopher , Zhan Xianyuan , Rao P. Suresh C. , Sitzenfrei Robert
Published: January 2019

In this paper, we used complex network analysis approaches to investigate topological coevolution over a century for three different urban infrastructure networks. We applied network analyses to a unique time‐stamped network data set of an Alpine case study, representing the historical development of the town and its infrastructure over the past 108 years. The analyzed infrastructure includes the water distribution network (WDN), the urban drainage network (UDN), and the road network (RN). We use the dual representation of the network by using the Hierarchical Intersection Continuity Negotiation (HICN) approach, with pipes or roads as nodes and their intersections as edges. The functional topologies of the networks are analyzed based on the dual graphs, providing insights beyond a conventional graph (primal mapping) analysis. We observe that the RN, WDN, and UDN all exhibit heavy tailed node degree distributions [P(k)] with high dispersion around the mean. In 50 percent of the investigated networks, P(k) can be approximated with truncated [Pareto] power‐law functions, as they are known for scale‐free networks. Structural differences between the three evolving network types resulting from different functionalities and system states are reflected in the P(k) and other complex network metrics. Small‐world tendencies are identified by comparing the networks with their random and regular lattice network equivalents. Furthermore, we show the remapping of the dual network characteristics to the spatial map and the identification of criticalities among different network types through co‐location analysis and discuss possibilities for further applications.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Intestinal Parasitic Infections among Food Handlers at Prison, East and West Gojjam, Ethiopia
Authors: Asires Azmeraw , Wubie Moges , Reta Alemayehu
Published: January 2019

Introduction. One of the top ten major public health problems in developing countries including Ethiopia is the intestinal parasitic infection. Most of the time, intestinal parasitic infections do not show clinical signs and symptoms and also have a number of potential carriers, such as food handlers, which makes it too difficult to eradicate and control. Objective. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence and associated factors of intestinal parasitic infection among food handlers at prison, East and West Gojjam, Ethiopia, 2017. Methods. An institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted at East and West Gojjam prison. A total of 416 study participants, with a response rate of 82.7%, were included in the study for both stool exam and questioner. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and the sample was collected and examined based on the standard parasitological procedure. Epi data Version 3.1 was used to enter data, and SPSS version 20 was used to analyze the data. Results. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in the present study was 61.9%. The most prevalent parasite was A. lumbricoides (157 (45.6%)). Protozoan infection was higher than helminth infection. Multiple intestinal infections were identified; among study participants, 34.6% had double infection. The most significant associated factors of intestinal parasitic infections were fingernail status, residence, information about food contamination related to intestinal parasitic infection, income, and handwashing before having contact with food and after toilet with water only. Conclusions. A high proportion of intestinal parasitic infection was detected among food handlers working at East and West Gojjam prison. Training must be given to the food handlers on personal hygienic conditions (finger trimming, handwashing after toilet and before having contact with food with water and soap, etc.).
A Method of Enhancing Fast Steering Mirror’s Ability of Anti‐Disturbance Based on Adaptive Robust Control
Authors: Zhang Shitao , Zhang Bao , Li Xiantao , Wang Zhengxi , Qian Feng
Published: January 2019

Fast steering mirror (FSM) plays a crucial role in stabilization of the line‐of‐sight (LOS) and phase shift compensation. The control accuracy of the FSM is affected by various disturbances especially the vibration in the aviation environment. Traditional anti‐disturbance methods, such as disturbance observer (DOB), have a little effect of suppressing disturbance in FSM. But it also brings some problem, such as increasing mass and amplifying high frequency noise. To solve these problems, an anti‐disturbance strategy based on adaptive robust control (ARC) was proposed. And it will not amplify the high‐frequency noise which is inevitable in DOB. Experimental results show that, using adaptive robust controller, the steady‐state error of the FSM decreased 4.8 times compared to simple PID control and 1.9 times compared to DOB+PID control in the simulated vibration environment.