bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Fast Intra Mode Selection Algorithm Based on CU Size for Virtual Reality 360∘ Video
Authors: Guan Xiaohan , Xu Cai , Zhang Mengmeng , Liu Zhi , Yue Wen , Mao Fuqi
Published: March 2019

Virtual Reality (VR) 360∘ video is spherical, and has ultra-high definition. It is time-consuming to code it using High Efficient Video Coding (HEVC) directly. In this paper, a fast intra mode selection algorithm based on Coding Unit (CU) size is proposed for VR 360∘ video in Cubemap projection (CMP) format. A redefined mode selection strategy for two-stage Rough mode decision (RMD) is designed based on different depth CUs to reduce coding time during intra prediction process. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm brings 27.70% saving in average coding time at the cost of only 0.8% Bjontegaard delta rate increase in All-Intra mode.
Ribbon n-knots with isomorphic quandles
Authors: Winter Blake K.
Published: March 2019

Let [Formula: see text] be ribbon knottings of [Formula: see text]-spheres or tori in [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. We show that if the knot quandles of these knots are isomorphic, then the ribbon knottings are stably equivalent, in the sense of Nakanishi and Nakagawa, after taking a finite number of connected sums with trivially embedded copies of [Formula: see text].
Virtual tangles and fiber functors
Authors: Brochier Adrien
Published: March 2019

We define a category [Formula: see text] of tangles diagrams drawn on surfaces with boundaries. On the one hand, we show that there is a natural functor from the category of virtual tangles to [Formula: see text] which induces an equivalence of categories. On the other hand, we show that [Formula: see text] is universal among ribbon categories equipped with a strong monoidal functor to a symmetric monoidal category. This is a generalization of the Shum–Reshetikhin–Turaev theorem characterizing the category of ordinary tangles as the free ribbon category. This gives a straightforward proof that all quantum invariants of links extend to framed oriented virtual links. This also provides a clear explanation of the relation between virtual tangles and Etingof–Kazhdan formalism suggested by Bar-Natan. We prove a similar statement for virtual braids, and discuss the relation between our category and knotted trivalent graphs.
Assessing Reliability of Multistate Flow Networks Under Cost Constraint in Terms of Minimal Cuts
Authors: Forghani-elahabad Majid , Kagan Nelson
Published: March 2019

Assessing the reliability of a multistate flow network (MFN) has been significantly attractive in recent years. Generally, some assumptions such as budget or time limits are considered in this problem to make it more realistic. Considering the cost constraint, the network reliability at level [Formula: see text] is the probability of transmitting at least [Formula: see text] units of product from a source node to a destination node through the network within the cost of [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is a given demand value. Here, the problem of reliability evaluation of an MFN with cost constraint in terms of minimal cuts is considered. Presenting some techniques to improve the solution, a simple improved algorithm is proposed to address the problem. The complexity results are provided which demonstrate our proposed algorithm to be more efficient than some other existing ones in the literature. Some numerical comparisons between our MATLAB implementation of the proposed algorithm here and a recently proposed one are made. This way, computational comparative results on three benchmarks and a thousand random test problems are provided in the sense of performance profile introduced by Dolan and Moré, which show our proposed algorithm to be more efficient than the other.
A Size-Dependent Coupled Symplectic and Finite Element Method for Steady-State Forced Vibration of Built-Up Nanobeam Systems
Authors: Zhou Zhenhuan , Fan Junhai , Lim C. W. , Rong Dalun , Xu Xinsheng
Published: March 2019

A novel size-dependent coupled symplectic and finite element method (FEM) is proposed to study the steady-state forced vibration of built-up nanobeam system resting on elastic foundations. The overall system is modeled as a combination of nonlocal Timoshenko beams. A new analytical subsystem modeling with formulation and another numerical subsystem modeling are developed and discussed. In the analytical subsystem model, the uniform nanobeams are modeled and solved by a new approach based on a series of analytical symplectic eigensolutions. The numerical subsystem model applies a nonlocal FEM to solve nonuniform nanobeams. Analytical and numerical solutions are presented, and a proper comparison between the two approaches is established. Comprehensive and accurate numerical result is subsequently presented to illustrate the accuracy and reliability of the coupled method. The new results established are expected to have reference values for future studies.
An algorithm for Morlet wavelet transform based on generalized discrete Fourier transform
Authors: Yi Hua , Ouyang Peichang , Yu Tao , Zhang Tao
Published: March 2019

Continuous wavelet transform (CWT) is a linear convolution of signal and wavelet function for a fixed scale. This paper studies the algorithm of CWT with Morlet wavelet as mother wavelet by using nonzero-padded linear convolution. The time domain filter, which is a non-causal filter, is the sample of wavelet function. By making generalized discrete Fourier transform (GDFT) and inverse transform for this filter, we can get a geometrically weighted periodic extension of the filter when evaluated outside its original support. From this extension of the time domain filter, we can get a causal filter. In this paper, GDFT-based algorithm for CWT, which has a more concise form than that of linear convolution proposed by Jorge Martinez, is constructed by using this causal filter. The analytic expression of the GDFT of this filter, which is essential for GDFT-based algorithm for CWT, is deduced in this paper. The numerical experiments show that the calculation results of GDFT-based algorithm are stable and reliable; the running speed of GDFT-based algorithm is faster than that of the other two algorithms studied in our previous work.
A theoretical framework for the biophysics of tubulins
Authors: Motamedi Mohsen , Sohail Ayesha
Published: March 2019

Microtubules (MTs), the intracellular structures, are made-up of polar polymers that are composed of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] tubulins. The functions of MTs are shape the way for vesicles movement and asexual mitosis division. However, one of the main functions of MTs is stability of cells. Fewer geometrical methods are available in the literature to explore the molecular dynamics (MDs) of a MT, which is a difficult task due to its microscopic size and complex structure. A structural mechanics model with rather similar properties to MT can demonstrate the dynamics of MT. The first and most important step for this process is to obtain the interaction force between tubulins, and a mechanical model can be used to simulate the mechanical and dynamical properties of MTs by using meso- and macro-scale simulations. This work reports the interaction properties of [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] tubulin in MT. During this research, with the aid of the MD simulations, the interaction energy in [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] dimer is evaluated. The alpha-beta force–distance diagram is sketched with the aid of force and energy formulae. Thus, the graphical analysis supported the findings of this study.
Improvement of the arsine adsorption by doping on monolayer MoS2
Authors: Xu Gongjie , Song Gongming , Wang Yaole
Published: March 2019

The improvement of the arsine adsorption on monolayer MoS2 by doping has been investigated by first-principles calculation. The impurity atoms Si, P, and Cl, have been introduced to substitute S atoms to form an [Formula: see text]- or [Formula: see text]-type system. The electronic properties of MoS2 with dopants P and Cl are insensitive to the adsorption of AsH3. The Si-MoS2 with adsorbed AsH3 configuration has the largest adsorption energy, the lowest adsorbed height, and the most effective charge transfer. It is indicated that the properties of MoS2 can be improved by doping for detecting AsH3 molecules.
Comparison of methods for the geochemical determination of rare earth elements: Rock Canyon Creek REE–F–Ba deposit case study, SE British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Akam Carlee , Simandl George J. , Lett Ray , Paradis Suzanne , Hoshino Mihoko , Kon Yoshiaki , Araoka Daisuke , Green Craig , Kodama Shinsuke , Takagi Tetsuichi , Chaudhry Manzur
Published: March 2019

Using the Rock Canyon Creek carbonate-hosted rare earth element (REE)–F–Ba deposit as an example, we demonstrate the need for verifying inherited geochemical data prior to reinterpretation. Inherited La, Ce, Nd and Sm data obtained by pressed pellet X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and La and Y data obtained by aqua regia digestion inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) for more than 300 drill-core samples were analysed in 2009 and were subsequently compared to sample subsets re-analysed using lithium metaborate-tetraborate (LMB) fusion ICP mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS), Na
2
O
2
fusion ICP-MS, and LMB fusion-XRF. We determine that LMB ICP-MS and Na
2
O
2
ICP-MS accurately determined REE concentrations in control reference materials (CRM) SY-2 and SY-4, and provided precision of about 10%. Fusion-XRF was precise for La, Ce and Nd at concentrations greater than ten times the lower detection limit; however, accuracy of this method was not established because REE concentrations in SY-4 were below the lower detection limit. Analysis of the sample subset revealed substantial discrepancies for Ce concentrations determined by pressed pellet XRF in comparison to those determined by other methods due to Ba spectral interference. Samarium, present in lower concentrations than other REE that were determined, was consistently underestimated by XRF methods relative to ICP-MS methods. This may be the result of Sm concentrations approaching the lower detection limits of XRF methods, elemental interference or inadequate background corrections. Aqua regia dissolution results, reporting only for La and Y, are underestimated relative to the other methods. We highlight the importance of selecting the most appropriate analytical method and reference materials for determining the REE content of mineralized rock which may be several orders of magnitude higher than that of typical host rock.
Frontiers in Cryo Electron Microscopy of Complex Macromolecular Assemblies
Authors: Ognjenović Jana , Grisshammer Reinhard , Subramaniam Sriram
Published: March 2019

In recent years, cryo electron microscopy (cryo-EM) technology has been transformed with the development of better instrumentation, direct electron detectors, improved methods for specimen preparation, and improved software for data analysis. Analyses using single-particle cryo-EM methods have enabled determination of structures of proteins with sizes smaller than 100 kDa and resolutions of ∼2 Å in some cases. The use of electron tomography combined with subvolume averaging is beginning to allow the visualization of macromolecular complexes in their native environment in unprecedented detail. As a result of these advances, solutions to many intractable challenges in structural and cell biology, such as analysis of highly dynamic soluble and membrane-embedded protein complexes or partially ordered protein aggregates, are now within reach. Recent reports of structural studies of G protein–coupled receptors, spliceosomes, and fibrillar specimens illustrate the progress that has been made using cryo-EM methods, and are the main focus of this review.
Fusarium graminearum Trichothecene Mycotoxins: Biosynthesis, Regulation, and Management
Authors: Chen Yun , Kistler H. Corby , Ma Zhonghua
Published: March 2019

Fusarium head blight (FHB) of small grain cereals caused by Fusarium graminearum and other Fusarium species is an economically important plant disease worldwide. Fusarium infections not only result in severe yield losses but also contaminate grain with various mycotoxins, especially deoxynivalenol (DON). With the complete genome sequencing of F. graminearum, tremendous progress has been made during the past two decades toward understanding the basis for DON biosynthesis and its regulation. Here, we summarize the current understanding of DON biosynthesis and the effect of regulators, signal transduction pathways, and epigenetic modifications on DON production and the expression of biosynthetic TRI genes. In addition, strategies for controlling FHB and DON contamination are reviewed. Further studies on these biosynthetic and regulatory systems will provide useful knowledge for developing novel management strategies to prevent FHB incidence and mycotoxin accumulation in cereals.
Electrophysiological impact of thiocyanate on isolated mouse retinal pigment epithelial cells
Authors: Cao Xu , Baharozian Connor , Hughes Bret A.
Published: March 2019

Our recent electrophysiological analysis of mouse retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells revealed that in the presence of 10 mM external thiocyanate (SCN−), voltage steps generated large transient currents whose time-dependent decay most likely results from the accumulation or depletion of SCN− intracellularly. In the present study, we investigated the effects of more physiologically relevant concentrations of this biologically active anion. In whole cell recordings of C57BL/6J mouse RPE cells, we found that, over the range of 50 to 500 µM SCN−, the amplitude of transient currents evoked by voltage steps was proportional to the extracellular SCN− concentration. Transient currents were also produced in RPE cells when the membrane potential was held constant and the external SCN− concentration was rapidly increased by pressure-ejecting 500 µM SCN− from a second pipette. Other results indicate that the time dependence of currents produced by both approaches results from a change in driving force due to intracellular SCN− accumulation or depletion. Finally, by applying fluorescence imaging and voltage-clamping techniques to BALB/c mouse RPE cells loaded with the anion-sensitive dye MQAE, we demonstrated that in the presence of 200 or 500 µM extracellular SCN−, depolarizing voltage steps increased the cytoplasmic SCN− concentration to an elevated steady state within several seconds. Collectively, these results indicate that, in the presence of physiological concentrations of SCN− outside the RPE, the conductance and permeability of the RPE cell membranes for SCN− are sufficiently large that SCN− rapidly approaches electrochemical equilibrium within the cytoplasm when the membrane voltage or external SCN− concentration is perturbed.
Acetyl-CoA carboxylase inhibition regulates microtubule dynamics and intracellular transport in cystic fibrosis epithelial cells
Authors: Rymut Sharon M. , Lu Binyu , Perez Aura , Corey Deborah A. , Lamb Kata , Cotton Calvin U. , Kelley Thomas J.
Published: March 2019

The use of high-dose ibuprofen as an anti-inflammatory therapy in cystic fibrosis (CF) has been shown to be an effective intervention although use is limited due to potential adverse events. Identifying the mechanism of ibuprofen efficacy would aid in the development of new therapies that avoid these adverse events. Previous findings demonstrated that ibuprofen treatment restores the regulation of microtubule dynamics in CF epithelial cells through a 5′-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-dependent mechanism. The goal of this study is to define the AMPK pathway that leads to microtubule regulation. Here, it is identified that inhibition of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) is the key step in mediating the AMPK effect. ACC inhibition with 5-(tetradecyloxy)-2-furoic acid (TOFA) increases microtubule reformation rates in cultured and primary CF epithelial cells to wild-type (WT) rates. TOFA treatment also restores microtubule-dependent distribution of cholesterol and Rab7-positive organelles, as well as reduces expression of the proinflammatory signaling molecule RhoA to WT levels. ACC activation with citrate replicates these CF phenotypes in WT cells further supporting the role of AMPK signaling through ACC as a key mediator in CF cell signaling. It is concluded that ACC inhibition is the key step in the efficacy of AMPK activation at the cellular level and could represent a novel site of therapeutic intervention to address inflammation in CF.
BRL37344 stimulates GLUT4 translocation and glucose uptake in skeletal muscle via β2-adrenoceptors without causing classical receptor desensitization
Authors: Mukaida Saori , Sato Masaaki , Öberg Anette I. , Dehvari Nodi , Olsen Jessica M. , Kocan Martina , Halls Michelle Louise , Merlin Jon , Sandström Anna L. , Csikasz Robert I. , Evans Bronwyn Anne , Summers Roger James , Hutchinson Dana Sabine , Bengtsson Tore
Published: March 2019

The type 2 diabetes epidemic makes it important to find insulin-independent ways to improve glucose homeostasis. This study examines the mechanisms activated by a dual β2-/β3-adrenoceptor agonist, BRL37344, to increase glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and its effects on glucose homeostasis in vivo. We measured the effect of BRL37344 on glucose uptake, glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation, cAMP levels, β2-adrenoceptor desensitization, β-arrestin recruitment, Akt, AMPK, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) phosphorylation using L6 skeletal muscle cells as a model. We further tested the ability of BRL37344 to modulate skeletal muscle glucose metabolism in animal models (glucose tolerance tests and in vivo and ex vivo skeletal muscle glucose uptake). In L6 cells, BRL37344 increased GLUT4 translocation and glucose uptake only by activation of β2-adrenoceptors, with a similar potency and efficacy to that of the nonselective β-adrenoceptor agonist isoprenaline, despite being a partial agonist with respect to cAMP generation. GLUT4 translocation occurred independently of Akt and AMPK phosphorylation but was dependent on mTORC2. Furthermore, in contrast to isoprenaline, BRL37344 did not promote agonist-mediated desensitization and failed to recruit β-arrestin1/2 to the β2-adrenoceptor. In conclusion, BRL37344 improved glucose tolerance and increased glucose uptake into skeletal muscle in vivo and ex vivo through a β2-adrenoceptor-mediated mechanism independently of Akt. BRL37344 was a partial agonist with respect to cAMP, but a full agonist for glucose uptake, and importantly did not cause classical receptor desensitization or internalization of the receptor.
Biopolymer-delivered vascular endothelial growth factor improves renal outcomes following revascularization
Authors: Guise Erika , Engel Jason E. , Williams Maxx L. , Mahdi Fakhri , Bidwell Gene L. , Chade Alejandro R.
Published: March 2019

Renal angioplasty and stenting (PTRAs) resolves renal artery stenosis, but inconsistently improves renal function, possibly due to persistent parenchymal damage. We developed a bioengineered fusion of a drug delivery vector (elastin-like polypeptide, ELP) with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and showed its therapeutic efficacy. We tested the hypothesis that combined ELP-VEGF therapy with PTRAs improves renal recovery more efficiently than PTRAs alone, by protecting the stenotic renal parenchyma. Unilateral renovascular disease (RVD) was induced by renal artery stenosis in 14 pigs. Six weeks later, stenotic kidney blood flow (RBF) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were quantified in vivo using multidetector CT. Blood and urine were collected during in vivo studies. All pigs underwent PTRAs and then were randomized into single intrarenal ELP-VEGF administration or placebo ( n = 7 each) groups. Pigs were observed for four additional weeks, in vivo CT studies were repeated, and then pigs were euthanized for ex vivo studies to quantify renal microvascular (MV) density, angiogenic factor expression, and morphometric analysis. Renal hemodynamics were similarly blunted in all RVD pigs. PTRAs resolved stenosis but modestly improved RBF and GFR. However, combined PTRAs+ ELP-VEGF improved RBF, GFR, regional perfusion, plasma creatinine, asymmetric dimethlyarginine (ADMA), and albuminuria compared with PTRAs alone, accompanied by improved angiogenic signaling, MV density, and renal fibrosis. Greater improvement of renal function via coadjuvant ELP-VEGF therapy may be driven by enhanced MV proliferation and repair, which ameliorates MV rarefaction and fibrogenic activity that PTRAs alone cannot offset. Thus, our study supports a novel strategy to boost renal recovery in RVD after PTRAs.
On the Uniform Convergence of Sine Series with Square Root
Authors: Kęska Sergiusz
Published: March 2019

Chaundy and Jolliffe proved that if {ck}k=1∞ is a nonincreasing real sequence with limk→∞ck=0, then the series ∑k=1∞‍cksin⁡kx converges uniformly if and only if kck→0. The purpose of this paper is to show that kck→0 is a necessary and sufficient condition for the uniform convergence of series ∑k=1∞‍cksin⁡kθ in θ∈[0,π]. However for ∑k=1∞‍cksin⁡k2θ it is not true in θ∈[0,π].
β2-Microglobulin and Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin, Potential Novel Urine Biomarkers in Periodontitis: A Cross-Sectional Study in Japanese
Authors: Nakajima Mayuka , Hosojima Michihiro , Tabeta Koichi , Miyauchi Sayuri , Yamada-Hara Miki , Takahashi Naoki , Miyazawa Haruna , Matsuda-Matsukawa Yumi , Sato Keisuke , Sugita Noriko , Komatsu Yasutaka , Ishikawa Tomomi , Akiishi Kazuhiro , Yamazaki Kazuhisa , Kato Kiminori , Saito Akihiko , Yoshie Hiromasa
Published: March 2019

Objectives. Several serum biomarkers have been reported to increase in periodontitis patients as possible mediators linking periodontal inflammation to systemic diseases. However, the relationship between periodontitis and urine biomarkers is still unclear. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate potential urine biomarkers of periodontitis in a Japanese population.Materials and Methods. This study included 108 male subjects, and microbiological and clinical parameters were evaluated as a periodontitis marker. The correlation between nine urine biomarkers (typically used to diagnose kidney disease) and periodontal parameters was analyzed. Based on the findings,β2-microglobulin (β2-MG) and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) were selected for comparison and multivariate regression analysis, and the Kruskal–Wallis test followed by Bonferroni correction was used to identify differences in their concentrations between the three periodontitis groups (severe, moderate, and no/mild periodontitis).Results.β2-MG and NGAL exhibited a significant correlation with clinical parameters of periodontitis. The prevalence of clinical parameters such as bleeding on probing and number of sites with probing depth (PD) ≥ 6 mm were greater in theβ2-MG high group (≥300 μg/g creatinine) than in the normal group (P=0.017and 0.019, respectively). Multivariate regression analysis indicated that the number of sites with PD ≥ 6 mm was independently associated with urineβ2-MG. Moreover, the number of sites with the clinical attachment level (CAL) ≥ 6 mm was greater in the NGAL high group (highest quartile) (P=0.041). Multivariate regression analysis showed that the number of sites with CAL ≥ 6 mm was associated independently with urine NGAL. Finally,β2-MG was significantly higher in the severe periodontitis subjects compared to the no/mild periodontitis subjects.Conclusion. The significant association between urineβ2-MG or NGAL and periodontitis was revealed. These biomarkers can potentially be used to screen for or diagnose periodontitis. This trial is registered with the UMIN Clinical Trials RegistryUMIN000013485.
Generalized Differential Quadrature Method for Free Vibration Analysis of a Rotating Composite Thin‐Walled Shaft
Authors: Zhong Weiyan , Gao Feng , Ren Yongsheng
Published: March 2019

A refined variational asymptotic method (VAM) and Hamilton’s principle were used to establish the free vibration differential equations of a rotating composite thin‐walled shaft with circumferential uniform stiffness (CUS) configuration. The generalized differential quadrature method (GDQM) was adopted to discretize and solve the governing equations. The accuracy and efficiency of the GDQM were validated in analyzing the frequency of a rotating composite shaft. Compared to the available results in literature, the computational results by the GDQM are accurate. In addition, effects of boundary conditions, rotating speed, ply angle, ratio of radius over thickness, and ratio of length over radius on the frequency characteristics were also investigated.
Thermal Diffusion Effects in a Tunnel with a Cylindrical Lining and Soil System under Explosive Loading
Authors: Wen Minjie , Xu Jinming , Xiong Houren
Published: March 2019

An analytical method is employed to study the thermoelastic dynamic response of deep‐buried circular tunnel lining‐soil system under explosion load, considering thermal diffusion effects. The soil and lining are analyzed as homogeneous elastic media. Based on the generalized thermal diffusion theory and the classical thermal elasticity theory, the thermoelastic dynamic response of a soil‐lining system in the event of an explosion is solved using the Laplace transform and Helmholtz decomposition. By using continuity boundary conditions, the corresponding numerical solution is obtained through an inverse Laplace transform. The calculated results are compared to those without the lining and without consideration for the diffusion effect. The effects are analyzed under thermal, mechanical, and chemical coupling of the lining and soil properties, and their geometric parameters on the temperature gradient, displacement, stress, and chemical potential of the system. It provides significant guidance for theoretical calculations and antiexplosion design of the lining tunnel.
Effects of Ticagrelor versus Clopidogrel in Patients with Coronary Bifurcation Lesions Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Zheng Wei , Li Youmei , Tian Jingdu , Li Lufeng , Xie Li , Mao Qi , Tong Wuyang , Zhou Denglu , Azzalini Lorenzo , Zhao Xiaohui
Published: March 2019

Background. Percutaneous treatment of coronary bifurcation lesions can potentially lead to higher risk of ischemic events than the nonbifurcation ones, thus calling for further optimization of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes from ticagrelor and clopidogrel in bifurcation lesions patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods. We performed a retrospective cohort study in patients with coronary bifurcation lesions. A total of 553 patients discharged on ticagrelor or clopidogrel combined with aspirin were recruited for 1-year follow-up. The incidences of primary endpoint (major adverse cardiovascular event [MACE]: a composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction [MI] or stroke), secondary endpoints (the individual component of the primary endpoint or definite/probable stent thrombosis), and major bleeding (Bleeding Academic Research Consortium [BARC]≥3 bleeding events) were evaluated. To minimize the selection bias, a propensity score-matched population analysis was also conducted. Results. The risks of both primary endpoint (8.15% and 12.01% for the ticagrelor and clopidogrel groups, respectively; adjusted hazards ratio [HR]: 0.488, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.277-0.861, P=0.013) and MI (4.44% and 8.48% for the ticagrelor and clopidogrel groups, respectively; adjusted HR: 0.341, 95% CI: 0.162-0.719, P=0.005) were significantly reduced in the ticagrelor group as compared with those of the clopidogrel counterpart, whereas the risk of major bleeding was comparable (2.96% and 2.47% for the ticagrelor and clopidogrel groups, respectively; adjusted HR: 0.972, 95% CI: 0.321-2.941, P=0.960). Propensity score-matched analysis confirmed such findings. Conclusions. For patients with bifurcation lesions after PCI, ticagrelor treatment shows lower MACE and MI rates than the clopidogrel one, along with comparable major bleeding.
FTY720 Effects on Inflammation and Liver Damage in a Rat Model of Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Foster Anthony D. , Vicente Diego , Clark Nicholas , Leonhardt Crystal , Elster Eric A. , Davis Thomas A. , Bradley Matthew J.
Published: March 2019

Objective. Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) produces systemic inflammation with the potential for causing organ failure in tissues peripheral to the initial site of injury. We speculate that treatment strategies that dampen inflammation may be therapeutically beneficial to either the initial site of injury or peripheral organs. To test this, we evaluated the impact of FTY720-induced sequestration of circulating mature lymphocytes on renal IRI and secondary organ injury. Methods. A microvascular clamp was surgically placed around the left renal pedicle of anesthetized male Sprague-Dawley rats with either vehicle or FTY720 treatment (0.3 mg/kg) intravenously injected after 15 min of ischemia. Blood flow was restored after 60 min. Cohorts of anesthetized rats were euthanized at 6, 24, or 72 hrs with tissue samples collected for analysis. Results. FTY720 treatment resulted in profound T lymphocyte reduction in peripheral blood. Histopathologic examination, clinical chemistries, and gene transcript expression measurements revealed that FTY720 treatment reduced hepatocellular degeneration, reduced serum markers of liver injury (ALT/AST), and reduced the expression of gene targets associated with IRI. Conclusion. These findings support an anti-inflammatory effect of FTY720 in the liver where the expression of genes associated with apoptosis, chemotaxis, and the AP-1 transcription factor was reduced. Findings presented here provide the basis for future studies evaluating FTY720 as a potential therapeutic agent to treat complications resulting from renal IRI.
Aminated Graphene Oxide as a Potential New Therapy for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Krasteva Natalia , Keremidarska-Markova Milena , Hristova-Panusheva Kamelia , Andreeva Tonya , Speranza Giorgio , Wang Dayong , Draganova-Filipova Milena , Miloshev George , Georgieva Milena
Published: March 2019

Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems for cancer therapy are the topic of interest for many researchers and scientists. Graphene oxide (GO) and its derivates are among the most extensively studied delivery systems of this type. The increased surface area, elevated loading capacity, and aptitude for surface functionalization together with the ability to induce reactive oxygen species make GO a promising tool for the development of novel anticancer therapies. Moreover, GO nanoparticles not only function as effective drug carriers but also have the potential to exert their own inhibitory effects on tumour cells. Recent results show that the functionalization of GO with different functional groups, namely, with amine groups, leads to increased reactivity of the nanoparticles. The last steers different hypotheses for the mechanisms through which this functionalization of GO could potentially lead to improved anticancer capacity. In this research, we have evaluated the potential of amine-functionalized graphene oxide nanoparticles (GO-NH2) as new molecules for colorectal cancer therapy. For the purpose, we have assessed the impact of aminated graphene oxide (GO) sheets on the viability of colon cancer cells, their potential to generate ROS, and their potential to influence cellular proliferation and survival. In order to elucidate their mechanism of action on the cellular systems, we have probed their genotoxic and cytostatic properties and compared them to pristine GO. Our results revealed that both GO samples (pristine and aminated) were composed of few-layer sheets with different particle sizes, zeta potential, and surface characteristics. Furthermore, we have detected increased cyto- and genotoxicity of the aminated GO nanoparticles following 24-hour exposure on Colon 26 cells. The last leads us to conclude that exposure of cancer cells to GO, namely, aminated GO, can significantly contribute to cancer cell killing by enhancing the cytotoxicity effect exerted through the induction of ROS, subsequent DNA damage, and apoptosis.
An Approach for Achieving Consistency for Symmetric Trapezoidal Interval Type‐2 Fuzzy Sets
Authors: Xu Jiuping , Xu Kang
Published: March 2019

Interval type‐2 fuzzy sets (IT2 FSs) are powerful tools for dealing with linguistic information in decision making. However, there is a dearth of research regarding the consistency of preference relations based on IT2 FSs. In this paper, symmetric IT2 FSs and IT2 additive preference relations are defined, whilst at the same time a mapping method is proposed to convert IT2 numbers into the corresponding linguistic terms based on the ranking values for IT2 FSs, and some properties for symmetric IT2 FSs are proved. Then, we discuss the process for achieving consistency for IT2 additive preference relations. An algorithm is developed for the IT2 additive preference relation process for achieving consistency, and some desired algorithmic properties are proved. Finally, an actual case study is used in order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Characterization of Nanosilica/Low-Density Polyethylene Nanocomposite Materials
Authors: Alghdeir Malek , Mayya Khaled , Dib Mohamed
Published: March 2019

Six ratios of nanosilica particles were employed to fabricate low-density polyethylene (LDPE) composites using melt mixing and hot molding methods. Several composite films with different ratios (0.5, 1, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 wt%) of SiO2 were prepared. The obtained composite films were identified and characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS). At a specific mixing ratio, far infrared radiation transmittance was prohibited while the ultraviolet-visible transmittance is allowed; this will be explained in detail. Optical measurements show that the composite films prevent the transmission of IR radiation near 9 μm and allow UV-VIS transmission during sun-shining time. The mechanical behaviour of a nanosilica-reinforced LDPE composite was studied using tensile tests. The addition of 1 wt% nanosilica has successfully enhanced the mechanical properties of the LDPE material.
Evaluation of Image Enhancement Techniques for Vision-Based Navigation under Low Illumination
Authors: Aladem Mohamed , Baek Stanley , Rawashdeh Samir A.
Published: March 2019

Cameras are valuable sensors for robotics perception tasks. Among these perception tasks are motion estimation, localization, and object detection. Cameras are attractive sensors because they are passive and relatively cheap and can provide rich information. However, being passive sensors, they rely on external illumination from the environment which means that their performance degrades in low-light conditions. In this paper, we present and investigate four methods to enhance images under challenging night conditions. The findings are relevant to a wide range of feature-based vision systems, such as tracking for augmented reality, image registration, localization, and mapping, as well as deep learning-based object detectors. As autonomous mobile robots are expected to operate under low-illumination conditions at night, evaluation is based on state-of-the-art systems for motion estimation, localization, and object detection.
Comparison of PredictiveIn SilicoTools on Missense Variants inGJB2,GJB6, andGJB3Genes Associated with Autosomal Recessive Deafness 1A (DFNB1A)
Authors: Pshennikova Vera G. , Barashkov Nikolay A. , Romanov Georgii P. , Teryutin Fedor M. , Solov’ev Aisen V. , Gotovtsev Nyurgun N. , Nikanorova Alena A. , Nakhodkin Sergey S. , Sazonov Nikolay N. , Morozov Igor V. , Bondar Alexander A. , Dzhemileva Lilya U. , Khusnutdinova Elza K. , Posukh Olga L. , Fedorova Sardana A.
Published: March 2019

In silicopredictive software allows assessing the effect of amino acid substitutions on the structure or function of a protein without conducting functional studies. The accuracy ofin silicopathogenicity prediction tools has not been previously assessed for variants associated with autosomal recessive deafness 1A (DFNB1A). Here, we identifyin silicotools with the most accurate clinical significance predictions for missense variants of theGJB2(Cx26),GJB6(Cx30), andGJB3(Cx31) connexin genes associated with DFNB1A. To evaluate accuracy of selectedin silicotools (SIFT, FATHMM, MutationAssessor, PolyPhen-2, CONDEL, MutationTaster, MutPred, Align GVGD, and PROVEAN), we tested nine missense variants with previously confirmed clinical significance in a large cohort of deaf patients and control groups from the Sakha Republic (Eastern Siberia, Russia): Сх26: p.Val27Ile, p.Met34Thr, p.Val37Ile, p.Leu90Pro, p.Glu114Gly, p.Thr123Asn, and p.Val153Ile; Cx30: p.Glu101Lys; Cx31: p.Ala194Thr. We compared the performance of thein silicotools (accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity) by using the missense variants inGJB2(Cx26),GJB6(Cx30), andGJB3(Cx31) genes associated with DFNB1A. The correlation coefficient (r) and coefficient of the area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve as alternative quality indicators of the tested programs were used. The resulting ROC curves demonstrated that the largest coefficient of the area under the curve was provided by three programs: SIFT (AUC = 0.833,p= 0.046), PROVEAN (AUC = 0.833,p= 0.046), and MutationAssessor (AUC = 0.833,p= 0.002). The most accurate predictions were given by two tested programs: SIFT and PROVEAN (Ac = 89%, Se = 67%, Sp = 100%,r= 0.75, AUC = 0.833). The results of this study may be applicable for analysis of novel missense variants of theGJB2(Cx26),GJB6(Cx30), andGJB3(Cx31) connexin genes.
Metronomic Chemotherapy: A Systematic Review of the Literature and Clinical Experience
Authors: Simsek Cem , Esin Ece , Yalcin Suayib
Published: March 2019

Metronomic chemotherapy, continuous and dose-dense administration of chemotherapeutic drugs with lowered doses, is being evaluated for substituting, augmenting, or appending conventional maximum tolerated dose regimens, with preclinical and clinical studies for the past few decades. To date, the principle mechanisms of its action include impeding tumoral angiogenesis and modulation of hosts’ immune system, affecting directly tumor cells, their progenitors, and neighboring stromal cells. Its better toxicity profile, lower cost, and easier use are main advantages over conventional therapies. The evidence of metronomic chemotherapy for personalized medicine is growing, starting with unfit elderly patients and also for palliative treatment. The literature reviewed in this article mainly demonstrates that metronomic chemotherapy is advantageous for selected patients and for certain types of malignancies, which make it a promising therapeutic approach for filling in the gaps. More clinical studies are needed to establish a solidified role for metronomic chemotherapy with other treatment models in modern cancer management.
The Arterial Supply of the Distal Part of the Pancreas
Authors: Covantev S. , Mazuruc N. , Belic O.
Published: March 2019

The pancreatic surgery field has evolved greatly over the previous years. Nevertheless, the vascularization of the pancreas remains a difficult subject and requires further attention. The study was conducted using macroscopical dissection and corrosion cast methods. The total number of organ blocks was 72 (50 for dissection and 22 for corrosion cast). Based on the data obtained by dissection, we can distinguish three major types of vascularization of the distal pancreas. In type one, the pancreas was vascularized only by the short branches of the splenic artery and was encountered in 18 cases (36%). In type two, the pancreas was vascularized by the long and short branches of the splenic artery and was encountered in 20 cases (40%). In type three, the pancreas was vascularized only by the long branches of the splenic artery in 12 cases (24%). Compared to that, the corrosion cast method demonstrated type 1 in 8 cases (36.36%), type 2 in 10 cases (45.46%), and type 3 in 4 cases (18.18%). During the dissection, there were no arteries to the tail of the pancreas in 13 (26%) cases, one artery in 15 (30%) cases, two arteries in 19 (38%), and three arteries in three (6%) cases. The 22 corrosion cast specimens were also evaluated based on the classification of Roman Ramos and coworkers. Type I (small arcades) was in 9 (40.90%) cases, type II (small and large arcades) was in 7 (31.82%) cases, type III (large arcades) was in 5 (22.73%) cases, and type IV (straight branches) was in 1 (4.55%) case. The corrosion cast method allowed us to determine no arteries to the tail in 4 (18.18%) cases, one artery in 6 (27.27%) cases, two arteries in 10 (45.46%) cases and three arteries in two (9.09%) cases. The vascularization of the distal part of the pancreas is highly variable and should be taken into consideration during surgery.
Anti‐Defect Design for Mechanical Elements under Severe Condition Based on a Half‐Real Defect Model
Authors: Zhao Xinyue , Wang Hongyuan , Yin Jiaomei , He Zaixing
Published: March 2019

For mechanical elements running under severe working condition, there inevitably exist some small defects caused during working. The weak area, which is sensitive to defects, of the structure is more vulnerable, resulting in early damage during service. This paper describes a novel anti‐defect design method for optimizing structure to enhance the reliability of vulnerable areas. First, a half‐real defect model derived from the real defect is developed to model the geometrical characteristics of defects. Then, the damage degrees of model parameters are identified by Sobol’s sensitivity method and the vulnerable area can be labeled according to the damage degree. Finally, we take the vulnerable area as the object of anti‐defect optimization for structure and the optimization variables are selected tendentiously based on parameters with larger damage degrees. The multiobjective particle swarm algorithm is then employed to find the optimal distribution of the variables in order to improve the safety of the sensitive area of structure. We take the impeller blade as the research subject to verify the validity of the proposed method. Analysis results showed that the proposed method can increase the structure strength and delay the damage of the mechanical elements.
Oxygen Vacancy Kinetics Mechanism of the Negative Forming-Free Process and Multilevel Resistance Based on Hafnium Oxide RRAM
Authors: Qi Mingqun , Guo Cuiping , Zeng Meihan
Published: March 2019

Switching between high resistance states and low resistance states in a resistive random access memory device mainly depends on the formation and fracture of conductive filaments. However, the randomness of the conductive filament growth and the potential breakdown of the large voltage in the forming process will lead to unstable resistive switching and memory performance. We studied the possible natural forming process of conductive filaments for intrinsic defects under the influence of top electrode material based on the structure of W/HfO2-x/Pt. Such a simple device shows long retention time and great endurance cycles. The dendritic oxygen vacancy (VO) conductive filament model was constructed, and the dynamic VO migration under directional external bias was described according to the characteristic electrical performance. In addition, we also explored the relationship between the multilevel resistance and the evolution of a dendritic VO conductive filament, signifying the potential application of multilevel storage in the future. Furthermore, a Ag/HfO2-x/Ag selector was fabricated to assemble the memory device in wire connection which exhibits the potential of eliminating leaky current in the memory array. The connection also indicates that the fabrication process of the 1S1R structure can be simplified by using the same functional layer.
Application of the Complex Variable Function Method to SH-Wave Scattering Around a Circular Nanoinclusion
Authors: Wu Hongmei
Published: March 2019

This paper focuses on analyzing SH-wave scattering around a circular nanoinclusion using the complex variable function method. The surface elasticity theory is employed in the analysis to account for the interface effect at the nanoscale. Considering the interface effect, the boundary condition is given, and the infinite algebraic equations are established to solve the unknown coefficients of the scattered and refracted wave solutions. The analytic solutions of the stress field are obtained by using the orthogonality of trigonometric function. Finally, the dynamic stress concentration factor and the radial stress of a circular nanoinclusion are analyzed with some numerical results. The numerical results show that the interface effect weakens the dynamic stress concentration but enhances the radial stress around the nanoinclusion; further, we prove that the analytic solutions are correct.
Organizing Project Actors for Collective Decision‐Making about Interdependent Risks
Authors: Marle Franck , Jaber Hadi , Pointurier Catherine
Published: March 2019

The way project actors are organized is crucial in determining how they will be able to collectively cope with nontrivial complex problems and risks. Current project organizations are generally based on single‐criterion decomposition, whether product, process, or organization based. The proposed approach forms complementary clusters of actors based on the interdependencies between the risks they manage. More precisely, distinction has been made between the interdependencies connecting two risks that are owned by different actors and those owned by the same actor. We argue that interdependency between two risks managed by the same actor is less dangerous, meaning that clustering algorithm is tailored to distinguish mono‐ and biactor risk interdependencies. The complementary structure offered by interdependency‐based clustering tends to put together strongly interconnected actors, albeit they were often initially not grouped together. It increases the likelihood of a better communication, coordination, and collective decision‐making in complex situations. Some risks remain out of proposed clusters and are declared transverse, which means that their owners act as information hubs and are not involved in a single cluster. An industrial application is presented with operational results and perspectives for further work are drawn from it.
Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Anterior Approach Microscopic Surgery for the Pincer Mechanism in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Peng Deqing , Ma Yuyuan , Lei Bin
Published: March 2019

Objective. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of anterior approach microscopic surgery for patients with the pincer mechanism in cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Methods. The clinical data of pincer cervical spondylotic myelopathy that received anterior cervical decompression and fusion in our hospital from Aug 2014 to Dec 2017 were analyzed retrospectively, including 12 males and 9 females, with an average age of 64.3 years (range 46-81 years). Occupying rate, anterior occupying rate, and posterior occupying rate were measured on pre- and postoperative mid-sagittal MRIs. Pre- and postoperative Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores, intervertebral space height, and C2 to C7 Cobb’s angle were analyzed. Result. Duration of follow-up was six months. The pre- and postoperative anterior occupying rate were averagely 38.6±8.5% and 12.9±5.5%, respectively, the posterior occupying rates were averagely 27.4±7.2% and 13.1±6.6%, respectively, and Cobb’s angle changed from 15.3±8.0° to 22.7±7.9°. The intervertebral space height increased from 4.6±0.4mm to 6.5±0.4mm. JOA scores improved significantly by 59.4±34.0% at six months after surgery. Conclusion. Decompression by anterior microscopic surgery can increase spinal canal volume directly, recover intervertebral space height, and resize Cobb’s angle, but decrease the posterior compression by ligament Flava indirectly. Anterior decompression under the microscope may provide an alternative surgical option for partial patients with the pincer mechanism in cervical spondylotic myelopathy.