bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Markov Chain-Based Acute Effect Estimation of Air Pollution on Elder Asthma Hospitalization
Authors: Luo Li , Zhang Fengyi , Zhang Wei , Sun Lin , Li Chunyang , Huang Debin , Han Gao , Wang Bin
Published: September 2017

Background. Asthma caused substantial economic and health care burden and is susceptible to air pollution. Particularly, when it comes to elder asthma patient (older than 65), the phenomenon is more significant. The aim of this study is to investigate the Markov-based acute effects of air pollution on elder asthma hospitalizations, in forms of transition probabilities. Methods. A retrospective, population-based study design was used to assess temporal patterns in hospitalizations for asthma in a region of Sichuan province, China. Approximately 12 million residents were covered during this period. Relative risk analysis and Markov chain model were employed on daily hospitalization state estimation. Results. Among PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and SO2, only SO2 was significant. When air pollution is severe, the transition probability from a low-admission state (previous day) to high-admission state (next day) is 35.46%, while it is 20.08% when air pollution is mild. In particular, for female-cold subgroup, the counterparts are 30.06% and 0.01%, respectively. Conclusions. SO2 was a significant risk factor for elder asthma hospitalization. When air pollution worsened, the transition probabilities from each state to high admission states increase dramatically. This phenomenon appeared more evidently, especially in female-cold subgroup (which is in cold season for female admissions). Based on our work, admission amount forecast, asthma intervention, and corresponding healthcare allocation can be done.
IL-33 Acts to Express Schaffer Collateral/CA1 LTP and Regulate Learning and Memory by Targeting MyD88
Authors: Nishizaki Tomoyuki
Published: September 2017

Interleukin-33 (IL-33) is recognized to transmit a signal through a heterodimeric receptor complex ST2/interleukin-1 receptor accessory protein (IL-1RAcP) bearing activation of myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88). High-frequency stimulation to the Schaffer collateral induced long-term potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 region of hippocampal slices from wild-type control mice. Schaffer collateral/CA1 LTP in IL-33-deficient mice was significantly suppressed, which was neutralized by application with IL-33. Similar suppression of the LTP was found with MyD88-deficient mice but not with ST2-deficient mice. In the water maze test, the acquisition latency in IL-33-deficient and MyD88-deficient mice was significantly prolonged as compared with that in wild-type control mice. Moreover, the retention latency in MyD88-deficient mice was markedly prolonged. In contrast, the acquisition and retention latencies in ST2-deficient mice were not affected. Taken together, these results show that IL-33 acts to express Schaffer collateral/CA1 LTP relevant to spatial learning and memory in a MyD88-dependent manner and that the LTP might be expressed through an IL-1R1/IL-1RAcP-MyD88 pathway in the absence of ST2.
Model for Selection of the Best Location Based on Fuzzy AHP and Hurwitz Methods
Authors: Arsovski Slavko , Todorovic Gordana , Lazić Zorica , Arsovski Zora , Ljepava Nikolina , Aleksic Aleksandar
Published: September 2017

The problem of evaluation and selection of parking lots is a part of significant issues of public transport management in cities. As population expands as well as urban areas, solving the mentioned issues affects employees, security and safety of citizens, and quality of life in long‐time period. The aim of this paper is to propose a multicriteria decision model which includes both quantitative and qualitative criteria, which may be of either benefit or cost type, to evaluate locations. The criteria values and the importance of criteria are either precise or linguistic expressions defined by trapezoidal fuzzy numbers. The human judgments of the relative importance of evaluation criteria and uncertain criteria values are often vague and cannot be expressed by exact precise values. The ranking of locations with respect to all criteria and their weights is performed for various degrees of pessimistic‐optimistic index. The proposed model is tested through an illustrative example with real life data, where it shows the practical implications in public communal enterprises.
An Analysis of 3-Year Outcomes Following Canaloplasty for the Treatment of Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Khaimi Mahmoud A. , Dvorak Justin D. , Ding Kai
Published: September 2017

Purpose. To report 3-year results investigating the safety and efficacy of canaloplasty for open-angle glaucoma. Setting. University of Oklahoma, Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma, United States of America. Design. Nonrandomized single-center retrospective chart review. Methods. Adult open-angle glaucoma eyes underwent canaloplasty or combined cataract-canaloplasty surgery. A tensioning suture was placed into Schlemm’s canal in all eyes. Primary endpoints included the mean IOP and mean number of glaucoma medications at each follow-up visit. Secondary endpoints included visual acuity and surgical/postsurgical complications. Results. The study cohort included 277 eyes (mean age, 72.8 years). Overall, the mean baseline IOP of 19.7 mmHg was reduced to 14.3 mmHg,14.0 mmHg, and 15.2 mmHg at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively (p<0.001). The average medicine use was reduced from 2.1 preoperatively to 0.4 at 12 months, and 0.5 and 0.6 at two and three years, respectively (p<0.001). The frequency of surgical and postsurgical complications was low with no serious adverse events recorded. Conclusion. Canaloplasty was safe and effective in achieving long-term IOP reductions and reduced dependence on antiglaucoma medications.
Physical Background for Luminescence Thermometry Sensors Based on Pr3+:LaF3 Crystalline Particles
Authors: Pudovkin Maksim S. , Morozov Oleg A. , Pavlov Vitaly V. , Korableva Stella L. , Lukinova Elena V. , Osin Yury N. , Evtugyn Vladimir G. , Safiullin Roman A. , Semashko Vadim V.
Published: September 2017

The main goal of this study was creating multifunctional nanoparticles based on rare-earth doped LaF3 nanocrystals, which can be used as fluorescence thermal sensors operating over the 80–320 K temperature range including physiological temperature range (10–50°C). The Pr3+:LaF3 (CPr = 1%) microcrystalline powder and the Pr3+:LaF3 (CPr = 12%, 20%) nanoparticles were studied. It was proved that all the samples were capable of thermal sensing into the temperature range from 80 to 320 K. It was revealed that the mechanisms of temperature sensitivity for the microcrystalline powder and the nanoparticles are different. In the powder, the 3P1 and 3P0 states of Pr3+ ion share their electronic populations according to the Boltzmann and thermalization of the 3P1 state takes place. In the nanoparticles, two temperature dependent mechanisms were suggested: energy migration within 3P0 state in the temperature range from 80 K to 200 K followed by quenching of 3P0 state by OH groups at higher temperatures. The values of the relative sensitivities for the Pr3+:LaF3 (CPr = 1%) microcrystalline powder and the Pr3+:LaF3 (CPr = 12%, 20%) nanoparticles into the physiological temperature range (at 45°C) were 1, 0.5, and 0.3% °C−1, respectively.
Probabilistic Interval Forecasts: An Individual Differences Approach to Understanding Forecast Communication
Authors: Grounds Margaret A. , Joslyn Susan , Otsuka Kyoko
Published: September 2017

Predictive interval forecasts, showing a range of values with specified probability, have the potential to improve decisions compared to point estimates. The research reported here demonstrates that this advantage extends from college undergraduates to a wide user group and doesnotdepend on education. In two experiments, participants made decisions based on predictive intervals or point estimates and answered questions about them. In Experiment1, they also completed numeracy and working memory span tests. Those using predictive intervals were better able to identify situations requiring precautionary action. Nonetheless, two errors were noted: (1) misinterpreting predictive intervals as diurnal fluctuation (deterministic construal errors) and (2) judging the probability of events within and beyond the interval, when asked about them separately, as greater than 100%. These errors were only partially explained by WMS and numeracy. Importantly, omitting visualizations eliminated deterministic construal errors and overestimation of percent chance was not consistently related to decision quality. Thus, there may be important benefits to predictive interval forecasts that are not dependent on a full understanding of the theoretical principles underlying them or an advanced education, making them appropriate for a broad range of users with diverse backgrounds, weather concerns, and risk tolerances.
Experimental and Analytical Study of Slender Reinforced Concrete Shear Wall under Cyclic In‐Plane Lateral Load
Authors: Sosa Diego , Arévalo Diego , Mora E. David , Correa M. Belén , Albuja Diego , Gómez Christian
Published: September 2017

This study describes a slender reinforced concrete shear wall experimental test under in‐plane cyclic lateral load, and the development of an analytical model which uses the fiber method approach to consider hysteretic nonlinear constitutive material models behavior. The shear wall tested had bending behavior, since the amount of longitudinal reinforcing bars produced weak bending capacity compared to the shear strength. The analytical model tries to represent global and local behavior of the wall, and its calibration is based on reaching experimental parameters like area enclosed and secant stiffness on every loop. After the analytical model was calibrated, the relation between some performance points and damage states observed during the test is studied.
Mitochondria Associated MicroRNA Expression Profiling of Heart Failure
Authors: Wang Xiaoxia , Song Chun , Zhou Xiao , Han Xiaorui , Li Jun , Wang Zengwu , Shang Haibao , Liu Yuli , Cao Huiqing
Published: September 2017

Heart failure (HF) is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and energy metabolism impairment. MicroRNAs are implicated in the development of heart failure. However, the mitochondria enriched microRNA during heart failure remains elusive. Here, we generated a pressure overload-induced early and late stage heart failure model at 4 weeks and 8 weeks following transverse aortic constriction (TAC) in mice. We found that expression of mitochondrion protein COX4 was highly enriched in isolated mitochondria from cardiac tissues while GAPDH could hardly be detected. Furthermore, small RNA sequencing for mitochondria RNAs from failing hearts was performed. It was found that 69 microRNAs were upregulated and 2 were downregulated in early heart failure, while 16 microRNAs were upregulated and 6 were downregulated in late heart failure. 15 microRNA candidates were measured in both mitochondria and total cardiac tissues of heart failure by real-time PCR. MiR-696, miR-532, miR-690, and miR-345-3p were enriched in mitochondria from the failing heart at early stage. Bioinformatics analysis showed that mitochondria enriched microRNAs in HF were associated with energy metabolism and oxidative stress pathway. For the first time, we demonstrated microRNAs were enriched in mitochondria during heart failure, which established a link between microRNA and mitochondrion in heart failure.
Predictive Power of Machine Learning for Optimizing Solar Water Heater Performance: The Potential Application of High-Throughput Screening
Authors: Li Hao , Liu Zhijian , Liu Kejun , Zhang Zhien
Published: September 2017

Predicting the performance of solar water heater (SWH) is challenging due to the complexity of the system. Fortunately, knowledge-based machine learning can provide a fast and precise prediction method for SWH performance. With the predictive power of machine learning models, we can further solve a more challenging question: how to cost-effectively design a high-performance SWH? Here, we summarize our recent studies and propose a general framework of SWH design using a machine learning-based high-throughput screening (HTS) method. Design of water-in-glass evacuated tube solar water heater (WGET-SWH) is selected as a case study to show the potential application of machine learning-based HTS to the design and optimization of solar energy systems.
Potassium Ascorbate with Ribose: Promising Therapeutic Approach for Melanoma Treatment
Authors: Cavicchio Carlotta , Benedusi Mascia , Pambianchi Erika , Pecorelli Alessandra , Cervellati Franco , Savelli Vinno , Calamandrei Duccio , Maellaro Emilia , Rispoli Giorgio , Maioli Emanuela , Valacchi Giuseppe
Published: September 2017

While surgery is the definitive treatment for early‐stage melanoma, the current therapies against advanced melanoma do not yet provide an effective, long‐lasting control of the lesions and a satisfactory impact on patient survival. Thus, research is also focused on novel treatments that could potentiate the current therapies. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of potassium ascorbate with ribose (PAR) treatment on the human melanoma cell line, A375, in 2D and 3D models. In the 2D model, in line with the current literature, the pharmacological treatment with PAR decreased cell proliferation and viability. In addition, an increase in Connexin 43 mRNA and protein was observed. This novel finding was confirmed in PAR‐treated melanoma cells cultured in 3D, where an increase in functional gap junctions and a higher spheroid compactness were observed. Moreover, in the 3D model, a remarkable decrease in the size and volume of spheroids was observed, further supporting the treatment efficacy observed in the 2D model. In conclusion, our results suggest that PAR could be used as a safe adjuvant approach in support to conventional therapies for the treatment of melanoma.
The Role of Antioxidant Enzymes in the Ovaries
Authors: Wang Shan , He Guolin , Chen Meng , Zuo Tao , Xu Wenming , Liu Xinghui
Published: September 2017

Proper physiological function of the ovaries is very important for the entire female reproductive system and overall health. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated as by‐products during ovarian physiological metabolism, and antioxidants are indicated as factors that can maintain the balance between ROS production and clearance. A disturbance in this balance can induce pathological consequences in oocyte maturation, ovulation, fertilization, implantation, and embryo development, which can ultimately influence pregnancy outcomes. However, our understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying these physiological and pathological processes is lacking. This article presents up‐to‐date findings regarding the effects of antioxidants on the ovaries. An abundance of evidence has confirmed the various significant roles of these antioxidants in the ovaries. Some animal models are discussed in this review to demonstrate the harmful consequences that result from mutation or depletion of antioxidant genes or genes related to antioxidant synthesis. Disruption of antioxidant systems may lead to pathological consequences in women. Antioxidant supplementation is indicated as a possible strategy for treating reproductive disease and infertility by controlling oxidative stress (OS). To confirm this, further investigations are required and more antioxidant therapy in humans has to been performed.
Mars Atmospheric Entry Integrated Navigation with Partial Intermittent Measurements
Authors: Lou Tai-shan , Wang Yan , Ding Guo-qiang , Zhao Liang-yu
Published: September 2017

Signal degradation suffered by the vehicle is a combination brownout and blackout during Mars atmospheric entry. The communications brownout means that signal fades and blackout means that the signal is lost completely. The communications brownout and blackout periods are analyzed and predicted with an altitude and velocity profiles. In the brownout period, the range measurements between the vehicle and the orbiters are modeled as intermittent measurements with the radio signal arrival probabilities, which are distributed as a Rayleigh distribution of the electron number density around the entry vehicle. A new integrated navigation strategy during the Mars atmospheric entry phase is proposed to consider the probabilities of the radio measurements in the communications brownout and blackout periods under the IMU/beacon scenario based on the information filter with intermittent measurements. Numerical navigation simulations are designed to show the performance of the proposed navigation strategy under the integrated navigation scenario.
Vision System of Mobile Robot Combining Binocular and Depth Cameras
Authors: Yang Yuxiang , Meng Xiang , Gao Mingyu
Published: September 2017

In order to optimize the three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction and obtain more precise actual distances of the object, a 3D reconstruction system combining binocular and depth cameras is proposed in this paper. The whole system consists of two identical color cameras, a TOF depth camera, an image processing host, a mobile robot control host, and a mobile robot. Because of structural constraints, the resolution of TOF depth camera is very low, which difficultly meets the requirement of trajectory planning. The resolution of binocular stereo cameras can be very high, but the effect of stereo matching is not ideal for low-texture scenes. Hence binocular stereo cameras also difficultly meet the requirements of high accuracy. In this paper, the proposed system integrates depth camera and stereo matching to improve the precision of the 3D reconstruction. Moreover, a double threads processing method is applied to improve the efficiency of the system. The experimental results show that the system can effectively improve the accuracy of 3D reconstruction, identify the distance from the camera accurately, and achieve the strategy of trajectory planning.
Molecular Crosstalking among Noncoding RNAs: A New Network Layer of Genome Regulation in Cancer
Authors: Ragusa Marco , Barbagallo Cristina , Brex Duilia , Caponnetto Angela , Cirnigliaro Matilde , Battaglia Rosalia , Barbagallo Davide , Di Pietro Cinzia , Purrello Michele
Published: September 2017

Over the past few years, noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been extensively studied because of the significant biological roles that they play in regulation of cellular mechanisms. ncRNAs are associated to higher eukaryotes complexity; accordingly, their dysfunction results in pathological phenotypes, including cancer. To date, most research efforts have been mainly focused on how ncRNAs could modulate the expression of protein-coding genes in pathological phenotypes. However, recent evidence has shown the existence of an unexpected interplay among ncRNAs that strongly influences cancer development and progression. ncRNAs can interact with and regulate each other through various molecular mechanisms generating a complex network including different species of RNAs (e.g., mRNAs, miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs). Such a hidden network of RNA-RNA competitive interactions pervades and modulates the physiological functioning of canonical protein-coding pathways involved in proliferation, differentiation, and metastasis in cancer. Moreover, the pivotal role of ncRNAs as keystones of network structural integrity makes them very attractive and promising targets for innovative RNA-based therapeutics. In this review we will discuss: (1) the current knowledge on complex crosstalk among ncRNAs, with a special focus on cancer; and (2) the main issues and criticisms concerning ncRNAs targeting in therapeutics.
Health Status and the Demand for Healthcare among the Elderly in the Rural Quoc-Oai District of Hanoi in Vietnam
Authors: Bang Kyung-Sook , Tak Sunghee H. , Oh Juhwan , Yi Jinseon , Yu Soo-Young , Trung Truong Quang
Published: September 2017

Background. Vietnam is experiencing an unprecedented demographic transition. Its proportion of elderly people is growing rapidly. Objective. This study explored the health status and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of rural elderly Vietnamese and assessed their needs for healthcare services. Design. This study used a survey with stratified proportion sampling and quota assignment. In 2016, data was collected from 713 people in the rural Quoc-Oai district of Hanoi aged 60 or older. Results. The mean age of the respondents was 70.9. Both self-rated health status and functional status decreased with age. Women reported more functional limitations than men. Musculoskeletal disorders were the most frequently reported chronic diseases, followed by hypertension, gastrointestinal diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. Age, self-rated health status, BMIs, and the number of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) were found to be significant determinants of HRQoL, after controlling for socioeconomic effects. More than half the respondents requested more healthcare information, particularly on disease management. Conclusions. Vietnam’s healthcare system is being challenged to make health services easily accessible and meet the growing needs for chronic illness management, risk reduction, promoting healthy lifestyles, and improving the aging population’s quality of life.
Main Controlling Factor of Polymer-Surfactant Flooding to Improve Recovery in Heterogeneous Reservoir
Authors: Yin Dandan , Zhao Dongfeng
Published: September 2017

This study aims to analyze the influence of viscosity and interfacial tension (IFT) on the recovery in heterogeneous reservoir and determines the main controlling factors of the polymer-surfactant (SP) flooding. The influence of the salinity and shearing action on the polymer viscosity and effects of the surfactant concentration on the IFT and emulsion behavior between chemical agent and oil were studied through the static and flooding experiments. The results show that increasing the concentration of polymer GF-11 (HPAM) can reduce the influence of the salinity and GF-11 has high shear-resistance property. In the condition of the Jilin Oilfield, the oil/water IFT can reach 10−3 mN/m when the surfactant concentration is 0.3 wt%. The lower the IFT is, the easier the emulsion of SP and oil is formed. Seven flooding experiments are conducted with the SP system. The results show that the recovery can be improved for 5.02%–15.98% under the synergistic effect of the polymer and surfactant. In the heterogeneous reservoir, the contribution of oil recovery is less than that of the sweep volume.
Serum Albumin Is Independently Associated with Persistent Organ Failure in Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Hong Wandong , Lin Suhan , Zippi Maddalena , Geng Wujun , Stock Simon , Basharat Zarrin , Cheng Bicheng , Pan Jingye , Zhou Mengtao
Published: September 2017

Background and Aims. To investigate the association between serum albumin levels within 24 hrs of patient admission and the development of persistent organ failure in acute pancreatitis.Methods. A total of 700 patients with acute pancreatitis were enrolled. Multivariate logistic regression and subgroup analysis determined whether decreased albumin was independently associated with persistent organ failure and mortality. The diagnostic performance of serum albumin was evaluated by the area under Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves.Results. As levels of serum albumin decrease, the risk of persistent organ failure significantly increases (Ptrend<0.001). The incidence of organ failure was 3.5%, 10.6%, and 41.6% in patients with normal albumin and mild and severe hypoalbuminaemia, respectively. Decreased albumin levels were also proportionally associated with prolonged hospital stay (Ptrend<0.001) and the risk of death (Ptrend<0.001). Multivariate analysis suggested that biliary etiology, chronic concomitant diseases, hematocrit, blood urea nitrogen, and the serum albumin level were independently associated with persistent organ failure. Blood urea nitrogen and the serum albumin level were also independently associated with mortality. The area under ROC curves of albumin for predicting organ failure and mortality were 0.78 and 0.87, respectively.Conclusion. A low serum albumin is independently associated with an increased risk of developing of persistent organ failure and death in acute pancreatitis. It may also be useful for the prediction of the severity of acute pancreatitis.
Evidences of a New Psychobiotic Formulation on Body Composition and Anxiety
Authors: Colica Carmela , Avolio Ennio , Bollero Patrizio , Costa de Miranda Renata , Ferraro Simona , Sinibaldi Salimei Paola , De Lorenzo Antonino , Di Renzo Laura
Published: September 2017

Background. Gut microbiota is implied in obesity, because of its ability to harvest energy from diet, and in the regulation of behavior. Given the link between gut microbiota, body composition, obesity, and anxiety, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a new psychobiotic formulation.Methods. Eligible patients were randomly divided into three groups: psychobiotics oral suspension group (POSG); dietary treatment group (DTG); combined treatment group (CTG). All subjects underwent body composition and psychological profile evaluation.Results. Significant changes in body composition parameters in each group were relieved after all treatments. Hamilton anxiety rating scale (HAM-A) highlighted a significant reduction of the total score for all study population after treatments in POSG (p=0.01) and CTG (p=0.04). A reduction of HAM-A total score in anxious subjects in POSG or CTG and a significant reduction of positive subjects for HAM-A in POSG (p=0.03) and in CDG (p=0.01) were shown.Discussion. Three-week intake of selected POS represents a good approach to solve problems related to obesity and behavior disorders. However, new clinical trials need to be performed on a larger population and for a longer period of treatment before definitive conclusions can be made. This trial is registered withNCT01890070.
Stochastic Analysis of Network Coding Based Relay-Assisted I2V Communications in Intelligent Transportation Systems
Authors: Xing Weijun , Liu Fuqiang , Wang Chao , Wang Ping
Published: September 2017

We investigate the information transmission in a typical communication scenario in the intelligent transportation systems (ITS), that is, infrastructures providing ITS services that intend to broadcast independent messages to the vehicles within their coverage areas. Due to the dynamic nature of wireless signal propagation links and interuser interference, it is hard to guarantee satisfactory performance by direct infrastructure to vehicle (I2V) transmissions. To solve this problem, we propose allowing certain vehicles to serve as relays to assist in the information distribution process and applying a class of finite-field network codes to efficiently use the available spectrum resources. Considering that the infrastructure information sources and all vehicles are randomly distributed following Poisson point processes, we model a general urban ITS communication network and based on the stochastic geometry we derive the probability that a vehicle can successfully recover all the desired messages from its serving infrastructure. The analytical and numerical results clearly demonstrate that our proposed network coding based relay-assisted I2V transmission can significantly improve the communication performance of the conventional direct I2V transmission strategy.
Tracking Maneuvering Group Target with Extension Predicted and Best Model Augmentation Method Adapted
Authors: Gan Linhai , Wang Gang
Published: September 2017

The random matrix (RM) method is widely applied for group target tracking. The assumption that the group extension keeps invariant in conventional RM method is not yet valid, as the orientation of the group varies rapidly while it is maneuvering; thus, a new approach with group extension predicted is derived here. To match the group maneuvering, a best model augmentation (BMA) method is introduced. The existing BMA method uses a fixed basic model set, which may lead to a poor performance when it could not ensure basic coverage of true motion modes. Here, a maneuvering group target tracking algorithm is proposed, where the group extension prediction and the BMA adaption are exploited. The performance of the proposed algorithm will be illustrated by simulation.
Antibiotic Resistant Bacterial Isolates from Captive Green Turtles andIn VitroSensitivity to Bacteriophages
Authors: Delli Paoli Carini Alessandro , Ariel Ellen , Picard Jacqueline , Elliott Lisa
Published: September 2017

This study aimed to test multidrug resistant isolates from hospitalised green turtles(Chelonia mydas)and their environment in North Queensland, Australia, forin vitrosusceptibility to bacteriophages. Seventy-one Gram-negative bacteria were isolated from green turtle eye swabs and water samples. Broth microdilution tests were used to determine antibiotic susceptibility. All isolates were resistant to at least two antibiotics, with 24% being resistant to seven of the eight antibiotics. Highest resistance rates were detected to enrofloxacin (77%) and ampicillin (69.2%). More than 50% resistance was also found to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (62.5%), ceftiofur (53.8%), and erythromycin (53.3%). All the enriched phage filtrate mixtures resulted in the lysis of one or more of the multidrug resistant bacteria, includingVibrio harveyiandV. parahaemolyticus. These results indicate that antibiotic resistance is common in Gram-negative bacteria isolated from hospitalised sea turtles and their marine environment in North Queensland, supporting global concern over the rapid evolution of multidrug resistant genes in the environment. Using virulent bacteriophages as antibiotic alternatives would not only be beneficial to turtle health but also prevent further addition of multidrug resistant genes to coastal waters.
Exhaled Nitric Oxide Is Useful in Symptomatic Radioactive Pneumonia: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Li Jiancheng , Fu Xiaobin , Fu Jie
Published: September 2017

The aim was to defect the exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) prediction value of symptomatic radioactive pneumonia (SRP). 64 cases of lung cancer or esophagus cancer, who had the primary radiotherapy (intensity-modulated radiation therapy), were included from 2015 June to 2016 January. During the following, the patients were divided: the symptomatic radiation pneumonia group (SRP, with the CTCAE v4.0 score > 2) and the asymptomatic radiation pneumonia group (ASRP, with CTCAE v4.0 score ≤ 1). All the patients were measured eNO before and at the end of thoracic radiotherapy and gain the posttherapy eNO value and the eNO ratio (posttherapy eNO value/pretherapy eNO value), then the predictive values of eNO toward SRP were measured using the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC). 17 cases were included in the SRP group and the other 47 were included in the ASRP group. The posttherapy eNO was 29.35 (19~60) bbp versus 20.646 (11~37) (P<0.001), and the ratio was 1.669 (0.61~3.5) versus 0.920 (0.35~1.5) (P<0.01) (symptomatic versus asymptomatic). ROC showed that the cutoff value of SRP was 19.5 bbp (posttherapy eNO, area under concentration-time curve (AUC) = 0.879) and 1.305 (eNO ratio, AUC = 0.774), which meant that posttherapy eNO and eNO ratio were useful in finding SRP.
γδ T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia/Lymphoma: Discussion of Two Pediatric Cases and Its Distinction from Other Mature γδ T-Cell Malignancies
Authors: Wei Eric X. , Leventaki Vasiliki , Choi John K. , Raimondi Susana C. , Azzato Elizabeth M. , Shurtleff Sheila A. , Ong Menchu G. , Veillon Diana M. , Cotelingam James D. , Shackelford Rodney E.
Published: September 2017

Gamma delta (γδ) T-cell antigen receptor (TCR) expression and its related T-cell differentiation are not commonly reported in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (T-ALL). Here we report two pediatric T-ALL cases and present their clinical features, histology, immunophenotypes, cytogenetics, and molecular diagnostic findings. The first patient is a two-year-old girl with leukocytosis, circulating lymphoblasts, and a cryptic insertion of a short-arm segment at 10p12 into the long-arm segment of 11q23 resulting in an MLL and AF10 fusion transcript, which may be the first reported in γδ T-ALL. She responded to the chemotherapy protocol poorly and had persistent diseases. Following an allogeneic bone marrow transplant, she went into remission. The second patient is an eleven-year-old boy with a normal white cell count, circulating blasts, and a normal karyotype, but without any immature cellular markers by flow cytometric analysis. He responded to the chemotherapy well and achieved a complete remission. These cases demonstrate the diverse phenotypic, cytogenetic, and molecular aspects of γδ T-ALL. Early T-precursor- (ETP-) ALL and their differential diagnosis from other mature γδ T-cell leukemia/lymphomas are also discussed.
Prevalence of Dog Erythrocyte Antigen 1 in 7,414 Dogs in Italy
Authors: Medina Valentin Anyela Andrea , Gavazza Alessandra , Lubas George
Published: September 2017

The study aim was to establish the prevalence of DEA 1, the most immunogenic and clinically important blood group in canine blood transfusion, in 7,414 dogs from Italy. The potential sensitization risk following a first transfusion and the acute reaction risk following a second transfusion given without a cross-matching and blood typing test were also calculated. Dogs tested were purebred (4,798) and mongrel (2,616); 38.8% were DEA 1 negative and 61.2% were DEA 1 positive. High prevalence for DEA 1 positive blood type was found in Ariegeois and English Setter, whereas German Shepherd and Boxer had higher DEA 1 negative blood type. Breeds with blood type never reported before included French Brittany Spaniel and Pug showing a high prevalence of DEA 1 positive type, while French Bulldog and West Highland White Terrier were more often DEA 1 negative. Just 48.8% of purebred and 13.9% of mongrel dogs were considered as prospective blood donors based upon their blood type. Most of the breeds had a sensitization risk of 20.0–25.0%. Rottweiler and Ariegeois had less risk of sensitization (9.4 and 4.2%) and the minor risk of an acute transfusional reaction (0.9–0.2%). The prevalence of DEA 1 positive and negative dogs in Italy agrees with most of the data already reported in the literature.
Paradoxical Association of Postoperative Plasma Sphingosine-1-Phosphate with Breast Cancer Aggressiveness and Chemotherapy
Authors: Ramanathan Rajesh , Raza Ali , Sturgill Jamie , Lyon Debra , Young Jessica , Hait Nitai C. , Takabe Kazuaki
Published: September 2017

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive lipid mediator that has been shown to serve an important regulatory function in breast cancer progression. This study analyzes plasma S1P levels in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant therapy as compared to healthy control volunteers. 452 plasma S1P samples among 158 breast cancer patients, along with 20 healthy control volunteers, were analyzed. Mean S1P levels did not significantly differ between cancer patients and controls. Smoking was associated with higher S1P levels in cancer patients. Baseline S1P levels had weak inverse correlation with levels of the inflammatory mediator interleukin- (IL-) 17 and CCL-2 and positive correlation with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Midpoint S1P levels during adjuvant therapy were lower than baseline, with near return to baseline after completion, indicating a relationship between chemotherapy and circulating S1P. While stage of disease did not correlate with plasma S1P levels, they were lower among patients with Her2-enriched and triple-negative breast cancer as compared to luminal-type breast cancer. Plasma S1P levels are paradoxically suppressed in aggressive breast cancer and during adjuvant chemotherapy, which raises the possibility that postoperative plasma S1P levels do not reflect S1P secretion from resected breast cancer.
Investigation on Parameters Affecting the Effectiveness of Photocatalytic Functional Coatings to Degrade NO: TiO2 Amount on Surface, Illumination, and Substrate Roughness
Authors: Hot J. , Topalov J. , Ringot E. , Bertron A.
Published: September 2017

This paper deals with the degradation of NO by photocatalytic oxidation using TiO2-based coatings. Tests are conducted at a laboratory scale through an experimental setup inspired from ISO 22197-1 standard. Various parameters are explored to evaluate their influence on photocatalysis efficiency: TiO2 dry matter content applied to the surface, nature of the substrate, and illumination conditions (UV and visible light). This article points out the different behaviors between three kinds of substrates which are common building materials: normalized mortar, denser mortar, and commercial wood. The illumination conditions are of great importance in the photocatalytic process with experiments under UV light showing the best results. However, a significant decrease in NO concentration under visible light is also observed provided that the TiO2 dry matter content on the surface is high enough. The nature of the substrate plays an important role in the photocatalytic activity with rougher substrates being more efficient to degrade NO. However, limiting the roughness of the substrate seems to be of utmost interest to obtain the highest exposed surface area and thus the optimal photocatalytic efficiency. A higher roughness promotes the surface contact between TiO2 and NO but does not necessarily increase the photochemical oxidation.
REACH: An Efficient MAC Protocol for RF Energy Harvesting in Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Kim Teasung , Park Joohan , Kim Jeehyeong , Noh Jaewon , Cho Sunghyun
Published: September 2017

This paper proposes a MAC protocol for Radio Frequency (RF) energy harvesting in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN). In the conventional RF energy harvesting methods, an Energy Transmitter (ET) operates in a passive manner. An ET transmits RF energy signals only when a sensor with depleted energy sends a Request-for-Energy (RFE) message. Unlike the conventional methods, an ET in the proposed scheme can actively send RF energy signals without RFE messages. An ET determines the active energy signal transmission according to the consequence of the passive energy harvesting procedures. To transmit RF energy signals without request from sensors, the ET participates in a contention-based channel access procedure. Once the ET successfully acquires the channel, it sends RF energy signals on the acquired channel during Short Charging Time (SCT). The proposed scheme determines the length of SCT to minimize the interruption of data communication. We compare the performance of the proposed protocol with RF-MAC protocol by simulation. The simulation results show that the proposed protocol can increase the energy harvesting rate by 150% with 8% loss of network throughput compared to RF-MAC. In addition, the proposed protocol can increase the lifetime of WSN because of the active energy signal transmission method.
Competence of Litter Ants for Rapid Biodiversity Assessments
Authors: Silva T. H. Saumya E. , Karunarathna Nuwan B. , Karunaratne W. A. Inoka P.
Published: September 2017

Rapid Biodiversity Assessment approaches associated with focusing taxa have overcome many of the problems related to large scale surveys. This study examined the suitability of litter ants as a focusing taxon by checking whether diversity and species assemblages of litter ants reflect the overall picture of arthropod diversity and assemblages in leaf litter in two vegetation types: secondary forest and pine plantation in Upper Hanthana forest reserve, Sri Lanka. In each vegetation type, arthropods were sampled using three sampling methods (Winkler extraction, hand collection, and pitfall traps) along three 100 m line transects. From the two sites, 1887 litter ants (34 species) and 3488 litter arthropods (52 species) were collected. Species assemblages composition of both ants and other arthropods differed significantly between the two sites (ANOSIM,p=0.001) with both groups generating distinct clusters for the two sites (SIMPROF,p=0.001). But there was no significant correlation (p>0.05) between abundance and richness of litter ants and those of other arthropods in both vegetation types. The overall finding suggests that the litter ants do not reflect the holistic picture of arthropod diversity and assemblages in leaf litter, but the quality of the habitat for the survival of all litter arthropods.
Metformin Suppressed CXCL8 Expression and Cell Migration in HEK293/TLR4 Cell Line
Authors: Xiao Zhihui , Wu Wenjun , Poltoratsky Vladimir
Published: September 2017

Chronic inflammation is associated with cancer. CXCL8 promotes tumor microenvironment construction through recruiting leukocytes and endothelial progenitor cells that are involved in angiogenesis. It also enhances tumor cell proliferation and migration. Metformin, type II diabetes medication, demonstrates anticancer properties via suppressing inflammation, tumor cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. This study intended to address the role of metformin in regulation of CXCL8 expression and cell proliferation and migration. Our data indicated that metformin suppressed LPS-induced CXCL8 expression in a dose-dependent manner through inhibiting NF-κB, but not AP-1 and C/EBP, activities under the conditions we used. This inhibitory effect of metformin is achieved through dampening LPS-induced NF-κB nuclear translocation. Cell migration was inhibited by metformin under high dose (10 mM), but not cell proliferation.
Carotidynia: A Rare Diagnosis for Unilateral Neck Pain Revealed by Cross-Sectional Imaging
Authors: Santarosa Corrado , Stefanelli Salvatore , Sztajzel Roman , Mundada Pravin , Becker Minerva
Published: September 2017

Idiopathic carotidynia (IC) is a rare and poorly understood syndrome consisting of unilateral neck pain, tenderness, and increased pulsations over the affected carotid bifurcation. A growing body of evidence supports the hypothesis that IC is a distinct clinicopathologic entity with characteristic imaging features. We report the case of a 34-year-old Caucasian male presenting with intense unilateral neck pain in the emergency setting. Computed tomography and ultrasonography revealed fusiform eccentric thickening of the ipsilateral carotid bifurcation without vessel narrowing. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging depicted major perivascular enhancement without evidence of dissection. Further imaging and laboratory work-up excluded vasculitis. The diagnosis of IC was made. The patient was treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and symptoms and imaging findings disappeared within a few weeks. Cross-sectional imaging allows not only ruling out IC mimickers but also making the correct diagnosis of this rare condition, in particular, as the clinical presentation of IC is often nonspecific.
Lattice Boltzmann Simulations of Fluid Flow in Continental Carbonate Reservoir Rocks and in Upscaled Rock Models Generated with Multiple-Point Geostatistics
Authors: Soete J. , Claes S. , Claes H. , Janssens N. , Cnudde V. , Huysmans M. , Swennen R.
Published: September 2017

Microcomputed tomography (μCT) and Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) simulations were applied to continental carbonates to quantify fluid flow. Fluid flow characteristics in these complex carbonates with multiscale pore networks are unique and the applied method allows studying their heterogeneity and anisotropy. 3D pore network models were introduced to single-phase flow simulations in Palabos, a software tool for particle-based modelling of classic computational fluid dynamics. In addition, permeability simulations were also performed on rock models generated with multiple-point geostatistics (MPS). This allowed assessing the applicability of MPS in upscaling high-resolution porosity patterns into large rock models that exceed the volume limitations of the μCT. Porosity and tortuosity control fluid flow in these porous media. Micro- and mesopores influence flow properties at larger scales in continental carbonates. Upscaling with MPS is therefore necessary to overcome volume-resolution problems of CT scanning equipment. The presented LBM-MPS workflow is applicable to other lithologies, comprising different pore types, shapes, and pore networks altogether. The lack of straightforward porosity-permeability relationships in complex carbonates highlights the necessity for a 3D approach. 3D fluid flow studies provide the best understanding of flow through porous media, which is of crucial importance in reservoir modelling.
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria in Pregnancy: A Dilemma in Treatment and Thromboprophylaxis
Authors: Patel Arpan , Unnikrishnan Athira , Murphy Martina , Egerman Robert , Wheeler Sarah , Richards Ashley , Wingard John
Published: September 2017

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a hematologic disorder characterized by an acquired somatic mutation in the phosphatidylinositol glycan class A gene which leads to a higher risk for increased venous and arterial thrombosis. Current treatment for PNH includes eculizumab. Pregnant patients who have PNH have higher risk for thrombosis and hemorrhage with both pregnancy and their underlying PNH. Treatment frequently poses conundrum. The safety and efficacy of eculizumab during pregnancy and breast feeding have not been extensively studied and contraception has been recommended due to potential for teratogenicity. We present a case of a patient who was safely on both eculizumab and modest prophylactic anticoagulation for 6 weeks post-partum.
Unusual Presentation of a Small-Cell Variant of Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma Case: When a Septic Picture Is Not Sepsis
Authors: Yu Zhou , Pang Yifan , Wang Linda , Ezekwudo Daniel E. , Ogunleye Foluso , Gaikazian Susanna S. , Micale Mark , Huang James , Blenc Ann Marie , Jaiyesimi Ishmael
Published: September 2017

We report a case of a small-cell variant of anaplastic large-cell lymphoma, with an unusual clinical presentation mimicking sepsis and a fulminant clinic course, in a 48-year-old Caucasian female. In this report, we discuss the diagnostic challenge, histopathologic features, and unique cytogenetic features of this case, in order to raise awareness of this rare presentation and emphasize the importance of meticulous peripheral smear examination and early bone marrow evaluation.
Influence of the Center Condition on the Two‐Step Secant Method
Authors: Kumar Abhimanyu , Gupta D. K. , Srivastava Shwetabh
Published: September 2017

The aim of this paper is to present a new improved semilocal and local convergence analysis for two‐step secant method to approximate a locally unique solution of a nonlinear equation in Banach spaces. This study is important because starting points play an important role in the convergence of an iterative method. We have used a combination of Lipschitz and center‐Lipschitz conditions on the Fréchet derivative instead of only Lipschitz condition. A comparison is established on different types of center conditions and the influence of our approach is shown through the numerical examples. In comparison to some earlier study, it gives an improved domain of convergence along with the precise error bounds. Finally, some numerical examples including nonlinear elliptic differential equations and integral equations validate the efficacy of our approach.