bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Focal neocortical lesions impair distant neuronal information processing
Authors: Wahlbom Anders , Enander Jonas M. D. , Bengtsson Fredrik , Jörntell Henrik
Published: July 2019

Key points

Parts of the fields of neuroscience and neurology consider the neocortex to be a functionally parcelled structure.

Viewed through such a conceptual filter, there are multiple clinical observations after localized stroke lesions that seem paradoxical.

We tested the effect that localized stroke‐like lesions have on neuronal information processing in a part of the neocortex that is distant to the lesion using animal experiments.

We find that the distant lesion degrades the quality of neuronal information processing of tactile input patterns in primary somatosensory cortex.

The findings suggest that even the processing of primary sensory information depends on an intact neocortical network, with the implication that all neocortical processing may rely on widespread interactions across large parts of the cortex.

Recent clinical studies report a surprisingly weak relationship between the location of cortical brain lesions and the resulting functional deficits. From a neuroscience point of view, such findings raise questions as to what extent functional localization applies in the neocortex and to what extent the functions of different regions depend on the integrity of others. Here we provide an in‐depth analysis of the changes in the function of the neocortical neuronal networks after distant focal stroke‐like lesions in the anaesthetized rat. Using a recently introduced high resolution analysis of neuronal information processing, consisting of pre‐set spatiotemporal patterns of tactile afferent activation against which the neuronal decoding performance can be quantified, we found that stroke‐like lesions in distant parts of the cortex significantly degraded the decoding performance of individual neocortical neurons in the primary somatosensory cortex (decoding performance decreased from 30.9% to 24.2% for n = 22 neurons, Wilcoxon signed rank test, P = 0.028). This degrading effect was not due to changes in the firing frequency of the neuron (Wilcoxon signed rank test, P = 0.499) and was stronger the higher the decoding performance of the neuron, indicating a specific impact on the information processing capacity in the cortex. These findings suggest that even primary sensory processing depends on widely distributed cortical networks and could explain observations of focal stroke lesions affecting a large range of functions.
Optical Performance of a Novel Two-Receiver Solar Central Tower System
Authors: Kiwan Suhil , Khammash Abdel Latif
Published: July 2019

A novel idea of using two receivers on the same tower in a solar tower system is introduced and investigated. The idea is to have two receivers at the same tower at different heights and sharing the same heliostat field. The pointing strategy for each heliostat is to pick the receiver that gives the maximum optical efficiency. To investigate this idea, two receivers are placed on the tower, one at the top and one at the midway up the tower. The biomimetic “spiral” distribution scheme is used to design the heliostat field, and the particle swarm optimization (PSO) method is used to obtain the optimum field shape factors. The model equations for calculating the optical field efficiency are presented and coded using the matlab software. The code is validated against known cases. To quantify the effect of the idea introduced in this paper, a solar field for the 50 MWth solar tower system with a single receiver is designed for Ma'an, Jordan (Ma’an enjoys high values of direct normal irradiance). It is found that the annual weighted optical efficiency for the 50 MWth plant in Ma’an for a single receiver is 67.14%, while it reaches 67.64% using the two-receiver system. Furthermore, the study shows that having two receivers on the same tower could save two heliostats and 11,000 m2 of needed land area to obtain the same power as a single-receiver tower. The economic analysis for this 50 MWth plant shows that savings can be obtained from having an extra receiver on the same tower of the same quality as the main receiver when the specific land area exceeds 65 $/m2.
Advanced Control System for Grid-Connected SOFC Hybrid Plants: Experimental Verification in Cyber-Physical Mode
Authors: Ferrari Mario L. , Rossi Iacopo , Sorce Alessandro , Massardo Aristide F.
Published: July 2019

This paper presents a model predictive controller (MPC) operating a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) gas turbine hybrid plant at end-of-life performance condition. Its performance was assessed with experimental tests showing a comparison with a proportional integral derivative (PID) control system. The hybrid system (HS) operates in grid-connected mode, i.e., at variable speed condition of the turbine. The control system faces a multivariable constrained problem, as it must operate the plant into safety conditions while pursuing its objectives. The goal is to test whether a linearized controller design for normal operating condition is able to govern a system which is affected by strong performance degradation. The control performance was demonstrated in a cyber-physical emulator test rig designed for experimental analyses on such HSs. This laboratory facility is based on the coupling of a 100 kW recuperated microturbine with a fuel cell emulation system based on vessels for both anodic and cathodic sides. The components not physically present in the rig were studied with a real-time model running in parallel with the plant. Model output values were used as set-point data for obtaining in the rig (in real-time mode) the effect of the fuel cell system. The result comparison of the MPC tool against a PID control system was carried out considering several plant properties and the related constraints. Both systems succeeded in managing the plant, still the MPC performed better in terms of smoothing temperature gradient and peaks.
Early Colonization of the Upper Genital Tract by Chlamydia muridarum Is Associated with Enhanced Inflammation Later in Infection
Authors: Helble Jennifer D. , Reinhold-Larsson Nicole V. , Starnbach Michael N.
Published: July 2019

Chlamydia trachomatisis the most commonly reported bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the United States. Modeling infection in animals can be challenging, as mice naturally clearC. trachomatiswhen it is deposited in the lower genital tract. However,C. trachomatiscan productively infect mice when the lower genital tract is bypassed and bacteria are deposited directly into the upper genital tract via transcervical inoculation.
Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Mouse Model Recapitulating Human Convalescence
Authors: Hawman David W. , Meade-White Kimberly , Haddock Elaine , Habib Rumi , Scott Dana , Thomas Tina , Rosenke Rebecca , Feldmann Heinz
Published: July 2019

The role of antibody or virus-specific T-cell responses in control of acute Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus infection is largely unclear. This is a critical gap in our understanding of CCHF, and investigation of convalescence following severe acute CCHF has been limited by the lack of suitable small animal models. We report here a mouse model of CCHF in which infected mice develop severe disease but ultimately recover. Although mice developed an inflammatory immune response along with severe liver and spleen pathology, these mice also developed CCHFV-specific B- and T-cell responses and were protected from reinfection. This model provides a valuable tool to investigate how host immune responses control acute CCHFV infection and how these responses may contribute to the severe disease seen in CCHFV-infected humans in order to develop therapeutic interventions that promote protective immune responses.
Staphylococcus aureus Coproporphyrinogen III Oxidase Is Required for Aerobic and Anaerobic Heme Synthesis
Authors: Choby Jacob E. , Skaar Eric P.
Published: July 2019

Heme is a critical molecule required for aerobic and anaerobic respiration by organisms across kingdoms. The human pathogen
Staphylococcus aureus
has served as a model organism for the study of heme synthesis and heme-dependent physiology and, like many species of the phyla
Firmicutes
and
Actinobacteria
, generates heme through a coproporphyrin intermediate. A critical step in terminal heme synthesis is the production of coproporphyrin by the CgoX enzyme, which was presumed to be oxygen dependent. However,
S. aureus
also requires heme during anaerobic growth; therefore, the synthesis of coproporphyrin by an oxygen-independent mechanism is required. Here, we identify CgoX as the enzyme performing the oxygen-dependent and -independent synthesis of coproporphyrin from coproporphyrinogen, resolving a key outstanding question in the coproporphyrin-dependent heme synthesis pathway.
ST elevation in recovery post exercise with normal coronary arteries
Authors: Aghamohammadzadeh Reza , El-Omar Suhaib Magdi , Rowlands Derek , El-Omar Magdi
Published: July 2019

We present the case of a 45-year-old healthy man who successfully completed three stages of the Bruce protocol but developed inferolateral ST segment elevation in the recovery phase. The ECG change was associated with a marked drop in blood pressure. He underwent emergency coronary angiography which revealed normal coronary arteries. It is likely that post-exercise hypotension triggered coronary spasm which caused the ST segment elevation. Alternatively, coronary spasm may have been the primary event, inducing sufficient myocardial ischaemia to cause a marked drop in blood pressure. Exercise tolerance testing is often a reliable test to rule out reversible myocardial ischaemia. While the physician is focused on ischaemic changes or rhythm abnormalities developing during the exercise phase, the recovery period is just as important and requires as much vigilance. Coronary vasospasm can result in significant ST changes and haemodynamic compromise at any point during the test, and the ECG traces can be indistinguishable from a classic ST elevation myocardial infarction, as in the present case.
Use of routinely collected electronic healthcare data for postlicensure vaccine safety signal detection: a systematic review
Authors: Mesfin Yonatan Moges , Cheng Allen , Lawrie Jock , Buttery Jim
Published: July 2019

Background

Concerns regarding adverse events following vaccination (AEFIs) are a key challenge for public confidence in vaccination. Robust postlicensure vaccine safety monitoring remains critical to detect adverse events, including those not identified in prelicensure studies, and to ensure public safety and public confidence in vaccination. We summarise the literature examined AEFI signal detection using electronic healthcare data, regarding data sources, methodological approach and statistical analysis techniques used.

Methods

We performed a systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. Five databases (PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science) were searched for studies on AEFIs monitoring published up to 25 September 2017. Studies were appraised for methodological quality, and results were synthesised narratively.

Result

We included 47 articles describing AEFI signal detection using electronic healthcare data. All studies involved linked diagnostic healthcare data, from the emergency department, inpatient and outpatient setting and immunisation records. Statistical analysis methodologies used included non-sequential analysis in 33 studies, group sequential analysis in two studies and 12 studies used continuous sequential analysis. Partially elapsed risk window and data accrual lags were the most cited barriers to monitor AEFIs in near real-time.

Conclusion

Routinely collected electronic healthcare data are increasingly used to detect AEFI signals in near real-time. Further research is required to check the utility of non-coded complaints and encounters, such as telephone medical helpline calls, to enhance AEFI signal detection.

Trial registration number

CRD42017072741
An improved clustering method for uncertain system
Authors: Ye Jingjing , Li Keping , Li Jing
Published: July 2019

Uncertain system clustering is an important issue which is the base for mining real-world data in many fields. In this paper, we investigate the clustering problem of uncertain system, and propose an improved clustering algorithm. Here, our improved algorithm considers not only distance but also spatial direction in vector space of data points. The aim is to improve the accuracy of uncertain system clustering, especially when there exists overlap among border region of groups in vector space. Experiment results show that for uncertain physics systems, the improved algorithm can well increase the accuracy of uncertain system clustering compared with the traditional clustering method which is based on distance similarity. Maximum value of accuracy and [Formula: see text]-measure are increased by 21.1% and 13.3%, respectively. Moreover, the proposed algorithm has high robustness for noise.
On the meaning of the wave function of the Universe
Authors: Shestakova Tatyana P.
Published: July 2019

The meaning of the wave function of the Universe was actively discussed in 1980s. In most works on quantum cosmology, it is accepted that the wave function is a probability amplitude for the Universe to have some space geometry, or to be found in some point of the Wheeler superspace. It seems that the wave function gives maximally objective description compatible with quantum theory. However, the probability distribution does not depend on time and does not take into account the existing of our macroscopic evolving Universe. What we wish to know is how quantum processes in the Early Universe determined the state of the present Universe in which we are able to observe macroscopic consequences of these quantum processes. As an alternative to the Wheeler–DeWitt quantum geometrodynamics, we consider the picture that can be obtained in the extended phase space approach to quantization of gravity. The wave function in this approach describes different states of the Universe which correspond to different stages of its evolution.
Graph kernels combined with the neural network on protein classification
Authors: Qiangrong Jiang , guang Qiu
Published: July 2019

At present, most of the researches on protein classification are based on graph kernels. The essence of graph kernels is to extract the substructure and use the similarity of substructures as the kernel values. In this paper, we propose a novel graph kernel named vertex-edge similarity kernel (VES kernel) based on mixed matrix, the innovation point of which is taking the adjacency matrix of the graph as the sample vector of each vertex and calculating kernel values by finding the most similar vertex pair of two graphs. In addition, we combine the novel kernel with the neural network and the experimental results show that the combination is better than the existing advanced methods.
Analytical Solution for the Creep Problem of a Rotating Functionally Graded Magneto–Electro–Elastic Hollow Cylinder in Thermal Environment
Authors: Saadatfar M.
Published: July 2019

In this paper, an analytical method is presented for the problem of the time-dependent response of a functionally graded magneto–electro–elastic (FGMEE) rotating hollow cylinder in thermal environment. The material properties of FGMEE are supposed to be power-law functions of radius. Applying the equations of equilibrium and electrostatic and magnetostatic equations, a differential equation which includes creep strains is achieved. At first, an exact solution for the primitive stresses, electric and magnetic potentials are achieved by eliminating creep strains in the mentioned differential equation. Then, Prandtl–Reuss equations, as well as Norton’s law, are employed for the FGMEE. Now, creep stress rates can be achieved by considering only creep strains in the mentioned differential equation. As a final step, time-dependent creep stress, electric potential and magnetic potential redistributions at any time can be achieved using an iterative method. Numerical examples are presented to disclose the influence of creep evolution, thermal loading, angular velocity and grading index on the primitive and creep response of the FGMEE hollow cylinder. Results show that the enhancement in tensile hoop stress during the creep evolution must be considered in designing. So, the creep analysis is vital to have more reliable and accurate aerospace smart structures.
Impact of Exchange Rate Volatility on the US Exports: A New Evidence From Multiple Threshold Nonlinear ARDL Model
Authors: Chang Bisharat Hussain , Rajput Suresh Kumar Oad , Bhutto Niaz Ahmed
Published: July 2019

This study extends previous literature by examining the effect of extremely large to extremely small changes in the exchange rate volatility on the US exports to developing countries such as Brazil, India, Mexico, and South Africa. We use novel approach called multiple threshold nonlinear ARDL (MTNARDL) and compare its results with ARDL and nonlinear ARDL models. The ARDL model supports insignificant results, whereas standard nonlinear ARDL model indicates asymmetric effect of exchange rate volatility on the US exports to Mexico only. Finally, the MTNARLD model indicates that in the short run, the effect of extremely large changes in exchange rate volatility does not significantly differ from the effect of small changes in exchange rate volatility on the US exports to all sample countries. Whereas in the long run, the effect of extremely large changes in exchange rate volatility is significantly different from the effect of small changes in exchange rate volatility on the US exports to all sample countries. The findings of this novel methodology suggest different policies in the long run and short run.
Differential Privacy for the Vast Majority
Authors: Kartal Hasan B. , Liu Xiaoping , Li Xiao-Bai
Published: July 2019

Differential privacy has become one of the widely used mechanisms for protecting sensitive information in databases and information systems. Although differential privacy provides a clear measure of privacy guarantee, it implicitly assumes that each individual corresponds to a single record in the result of a database query. This assumption may not hold in many database query applications. When an individual has multiple records, strict implementation of differential privacy may cause significant information loss. In this study, we extend the differential privacy principle to situations where multiple records in a database are associated with the same individual. We propose a new privacy principle that integrates differential privacy with the Pareto principle in analyzing privacy risk and data utility. When applied to the situations with multiple records per person, the proposed approach can significantly reduce the information loss in the released query results with a relatively small relaxation in the differential privacy guarantee. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is evaluated using three real-world databases.
Fetal androgen signaling defects affect pancreatic β-cell mass and function, leading to glucose intolerance in high-fat diet-fed male rats
Authors: Harada Naoki , Yotsumoto Yusuke , Katsuki Takahiro , Yoda Yasuhiro , Masuda Tatsuya , Nomura Masayuki , Shiraki Nobuaki , Inui Hiroshi , Yamaji Ryoichi
Published: July 2019

We previously demonstrated that androgen signaling expands pancreatic β-cell mass in the sexual maturation period ( Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 314: E274–E286, 2018). The aim of this study was to elucidate whether fetal androgen signaling plays important roles in β-cell mass development and β-cell function in adulthood, defects of which are associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In the pancreas of male fetuses, androgen receptor (AR) was strongly expressed in the cytoplasm and at the cell membrane of Nkx6.1-positive β-cell precursor cells but was markedly reduced in insulin-positive β-cells. Administration of the anti-androgen flutamide to pregnant dams during late gestation reduced β-cell mass and Ki67-positive proliferating β-cells at birth in a male-specific manner without affecting body weight. The decrease of β-cell mass in flutamide-exposed male rats was not recovered when rats were fed a standard diet, whereas it was fully recovered when rats were fed a high-fat diet (HFD), at 6 and 12 wk of age. Flutamide exposure in utero led to the development of glucose intolerance in male rats due to a decrease in insulin secretion when fed HFD but not standard diet. Insulin sensitivity did not differ between the two groups irrespective of diet. These results indicated that the action of fetal androgen contributed to β-cell mass expansion in a sex-specific manner at birth and to the development of glucose intolerance by decreasing the secretion of insulin in HFD-fed male rats. Our data demonstrated the involvement of fetal androgen signaling in hypothesized sex differences in the developmental origins of health and disease by affecting pancreatic β-cell function.
Classification and Assessment of the Patelar Reflex Response through Biomechanical Measures
Authors: Salazar-Muñoz Yolocuauhtli , López-Pérez G. Angelina , García-Caballero Blanca E. , Muñoz-Rios Refugio , Ruano-Calderón Luis A. , Trujillo Leonardo
Published: July 2019

Clinical evaluation of the patellar reflex is one of the most frequent diagnostic methods used by physicians and medical specialists. However, this test is usually elicited and diagnosed manually. In this work, we develop a device specifically designed to induce the patellar reflex and measure the angle and angular velocity of the leg during the course of the reflex test. We have recorded the response of 106 volunteers with the aim of finding a recognizable pattern in the responses that can allow us to classify each reflex according to the scale of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). In order to elicit the patellar reflex, a hammer is attached to a specially designed pendulum, with a controlled impact force. All volunteer test subjects sit at a specific height, performing the Jendrassik maneuver during the test, and the medical staff evaluates the response in accordance with the NINDS scale. The data acquisition system is integrated by using a tapping sensor, an inertial measurement unit, a control unit, and a graphical user interface (GUI). The GUI displays the sensor behavior in real time. The sample rate is 5 kHz, and the control unit is configured for a continuous sample mode. The measured signals are processed and filtered to reduce high-frequency noise and digitally stored. After analyzing the signals, several domain-specific features are proposed to allow us to differentiate between various NINDS groups using machine learning classifiers. The results show that it is possible to automatically classify the patellar reflex into a NINDS scale using the proposed biomechanical measurements and features.
Neuronal Antibodies and Associated Syndromes
Authors: Arneth Borros M.
Published: July 2019

Introduction. Multiple well-recognized conditions, such as Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) and myasthenia gravis (MG), have been associated with neuronal antibodies. Materials and Methods. A search was performed using Embase, PubMed, and CINAHL. An initial search of each database was conducted using keywords and terms related to the aim of the current review. Additional articles were obtained by examining the reference lists and citations in the selected records. Results. The studies identified through the search process used different designs and methods to explore neuronal antibodies and associated syndromes. Previous studies have shown that neurological and psychiatric disorders can be mediated and influenced by various antibodies. The identification of autoantibodies can help with the accurate diagnosis of conditions and commencement of early treatment. Discussion. A review of selected studies identified in the literature implicated that classic anti-neuronal antibodies, such as anti-Ri and anti-Hu, play a role in the development of neurological diseases. More recent studies have indicated that other novel antibodies act on neuronal cell surface antigens to contribute to the development of neurological disorders. Conclusion. Existing research provides evidence revealing a spectrum of antibodies linked to the development and progression of neurological diseases. However, further antibody testing and studies should be performed to validate the relationship between conditions and antibodies.
A Review of the Hereditary Component of Triple Negative Breast Cancer: High- and Moderate-Penetrance Breast Cancer Genes, Low-Penetrance Loci, and the Role of Nontraditional Genetic Elements
Authors: Ellsworth Darrell L. , Turner Clesson E. , Ellsworth Rachel E.
Published: July 2019

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), representing 10-15% of breast tumors diagnosed each year, is a clinically defined subtype of breast cancer associated with poor prognosis. The higher incidence of TNBC in certain populations such as young women and/or women of African ancestry and a unique pathological phenotype shared between TNBC and BRCA1-deficient tumors suggest that TNBC may be inherited through germline mutations. In this article, we describe genes and genetic elements, beyond BRCA1 and BRCA2, which have been associated with increased risk of TNBC. Multigene panel testing has identified high- and moderate-penetrance cancer predisposition genes associated with increased risk for TNBC. Development of large-scale genome-wide SNP assays coupled with genome-wide association studies (GWAS) has led to the discovery of low-penetrance TNBC-associated loci. Next-generation sequencing has identified variants in noncoding RNAs, viral integration sites, and genes in underexplored regions of the human genome that may contribute to the genetic underpinnings of TNBC. Advances in our understanding of the genetics of TNBC are driving improvements in risk assessment and patient management.
Incidence of Skeletal-Related Events in Patients with Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: An Observational Retrospective Cohort Study in the US
Authors: Kawai Alison Tse , Martinez David , Saltus Catherine W. , Vassilev Zdravko P. , Soriano-Gabarró Montse , Kaye James A.
Published: July 2019

Background and Objective. Skeletal-related events (SREs) are common in men with bone metastases and have negative consequences for patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), including pain, reduced quality of life, and increased mortality. We estimated incidence rates of first SREs in a cohort of men with CRPC in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare database. Methods. We included men aged ≥ 65 years with a prostate cancer diagnosis in 2000-2011 if they had no prior malignancy (other than nonmelanoma skin cancer) and had surgical or medical castration with subsequent second-line systemic therapy, which was used to infer castration resistance. The first occurrence of an SRE (fracture, bone surgery, radiation therapy, or spinal cord compression) in Medicare claims was identified. Incidence rates of SREs were estimated in all eligible person-time and, in secondary analyses, stratified by any use of bone-targeted agents (BTAs) and history of SRE. Results. Of 2,234 men with CRPC (84% white, mean age = 76.6 years), 896 (40%) had an SRE during follow-up, with 74% occurring within a year after cohort entry. Overall, the incidence rate of SREs was 3.78 (95% CI, 3.53-4.03) per 100 person-months. The incidence rate of SREs before any BTA use was 4.16 (95% CI, 3.71-4.65) per 100 person-months, and after any BTA use was 3.60 (95% CI, 3.32-3.91) per 100 person-months. The incidence rate in patients with no history of SRE was 3.33 (95% CI 3.01-3.68) per 100 person-months, and in patients who had such a history, it was 4.20 (95% CI 3.84-4.58) per 100 person-months. Conclusions. In this large cohort of elderly men with CRPC in the US, SREs were common. A decrease in incidence of SREs after starting BTA is suggested, but the magnitude of the effect may be confounded by indication and other factors such as age and prior SRE.
Growth Media for Mixed Multispecies Oropharyngeal Biofilm Compositions on Silicone
Authors: Leonhard Matthias , Zatorska Beata , Moser Doris , Schneider-Stickler Berit
Published: July 2019

Aims. Microbial colonization of silicone voice prostheses by bacteria andCandidaspecies limits the device lifetime of modern voice prostheses in laryngectomized patients. Thus, research focuses on biofilm inhibitive properties of novel materials, coatings, and surface enhancements. Goal of thisin vitrostudy was the evaluation of seven commonly used growth media to simulate growth of mixed oropharyngeal species as mesoscale biofilms on prosthetic silicone for future research purposes.Methods and Results. Yeast Peptone Dextrose medium (YPD), Yeast Nitrogen Base medium (YNB), M199 medium, Spider medium, RPMI 1640 medium, Tryptic Soy Broth (TSB), and Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS) were used to culture combined mixedCandidastrains and mixed bacterial-fungal compositions on silicone over the period of 22 days. The biofilm surface spread and the microscopic growth showed variations fromin vivobiofilms depending on the microbial composition and growth medium.Conclusion. YPD and FBS prove to support continuousin vitrogrowth of mixed bacterial-fungal oropharyngeal biofilms deposits over weeks as needed for longtermin vitrotesting with oropharyngeal biofilm compositions.Significance and Impact of Study. The study provides data on culture conditions for mixed multispecies biofilm compositions that can be used for future prosthesis designs.
Tool for Recovering after Meteorological Events Using a Real-Time REM and IoT Management Platform
Authors: Hervis Santana Yosvany , Plets David , Martinez Alonso Rodney , Guillen Nieto Glauco A. , Garcia Fernandez Nasiel , Deruyck Margot , Joseph Wout
Published: July 2019

This paper is the design of a Radio Environment Map (REM) with a real-time tool to sense the radiofrequency spectrum and optimally places with Surrogate Modelling and Sequential Experimental Design tools a total of 72 SDR sensors in the selected area, using LoRa and/or NB-IoT technologies for networking. It permits the regulatory body to check the correct use of the assigned spectrum and constitutes a communication alternative in case of a catastrophic event, such as a hurricane or an earthquake, where radio and TV broadcasting play an important role in keeping people informed after such meteorological event. The radiobroadcast services use large antennas and high towers, making them vulnerable to such events. Regardless of the chosen technology, the IoT monitoring network will be more robust, since it uses small antennas and lower towers, and often a given area is covered by multiple base stations. The tool can be used to deploy new services in the nonserved area (e.g., 4G in the 700 MHz band at a lower cost or using TVWS techniques to provide communications and internet connection) and optimal interference management.
Glucocorticoid Receptor Signaling Activates TEAD4 to Promote Breast Cancer Progression
Authors: He Lingli , Yuan Liang , Sun Yang , Wang Pingyang , Zhang Hailin , Feng Xue , Wang Zuoyun , Zhang Wenxiang , Yang Chuanyu , Zeng Yi Arial , Zhao Yun , Chen Ceshi , Zhang Lei
Published: July 2019

The Hippo pathway plays a critical role in cell growth and tumorigenesis. The activity of TEA domain transcription factor 4 (TEAD4) determines the output of Hippo signaling; however, the regulation and function of TEAD4 has not been explored extensively. Here, we identified glucocorticoids (GC) as novel activators of TEAD4. GC treatment facilitated glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-dependent nuclear accumulation and transcriptional activation of TEAD4. TEAD4 positively correlated with GR expression in human breast cancer, and high expression of TEAD4 predicted poor survival of patients with breast cancer. Mechanistically, GC activation promoted GR interaction with TEAD4, forming a complex that was recruited to the TEAD4 promoter to boost its own expression. Functionally, the activation of TEAD4 by GC promoted breast cancer stem cells maintenance, cell survival, metastasis, and chemoresistance both in vitro and in vivo. Pharmacologic inhibition of TEAD4 inhibited GC-induced breast cancer chemoresistance. In conclusion, our study reveals a novel regulation and functional role of TEAD4 in breast cancer and proposes a potential new strategy for breast cancer therapy.

Significance:

This study provides new insight into the role of glucocorticoid signaling in breast cancer, with potential for clinical translation.
Immunologic Correlates of Pathologic Complete Response to Preoperative Immunotherapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kaseb Ahmed Omar , Vence Luis , Blando Jorge , Yadav Shalini S. , Ikoma Naruhiko , Pestana Roberto Carmagnani , Vauthey Jean Nicolas , Allison James P. , Sharma Padmanee
Published: July 2019

In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), surgical resection is associated with high recurrence rate, and no effective adjuvant therapy currently exists. We initiated a pilot randomized trial of perioperative immunotherapy with nivolumab and ipilimumab for resectable HCC. Here, we provide an illustrative report of a case that achieved a complete response and report immunologic correlates of this complete pathologic response to perioperative immunotherapy. Clinical response was correlated with an increase in CD8+ T-cell infiltration, with an increase in two effector T-cell clusters. This study is ongoing, and the final results may contribute to a paradigm shift in the perioperative treatment of HCC, leading to the incorporation of immunotherapy in the curative setting.
ПРОТОЛІТИЧНІ РІВНОВАГИ3-(ТРИФЛУОРОАЦЕТИЛ)ІМІДАЗО[1,2-a]ПІРИМІДИНУ В МІЦЕЛЯРНИХ РОЗЧИНАХ АНІОННОЇ ТА ЦВІТЕР-ІОННОЇ ПАР
Authors: Zavada O. O. , Vodolazka N. О. , Zhuravel I. O.
Published: July 2019

Мета роботи. Дослідження протолітичних властивостей та спектральних характеристик протигрибкової субстанції 3-(трифлуороацетил)імідазо[1,2-a]піримідину в міцелярних розчинах аніонної та цвітер-іонної поверхнево-активних речовин.

Матеріали та методи дослідження. У роботі використано стандартну спектрофотометричну методику з потенціометричним контролем рН водної фази.

Результати і обговорення. У водних розчинах 3-(трифлуоро­ацетил)імідазо[1,2-a]піримідину існують дві протолітичні рівноваги: в лужних розчинах спостерігається молекулярна депротонована форма R; форма HR+ існує в діапазоні рН від 7 до 4, дикатіон H2R2+ існує у середовищі з рН < 1.

У роботі досліджено кислотно-основні властивості та спектральні характеристики 3-(трифлуороацетил)імідазо[1,2-a]піримідину у міцелярних розчинах поверхнево-активних речовин (ПАР): аніонної ПАР – натрій н-додецилсульфаті (н-C12H25OSO3Na, ККМ ~ 8´10–3 М) та цвітер-іонної ПАР – цетилдиметиламонійпропансульфонаті (C16H33N(CH3)2(CH2)3SO3-, ККМ ~ 5´10–5 М).

Розраховано константи ступінчастої дисоціації речовини у воді та «уявні» («apparent») константи ступінчастої дисоціації в міцелярних системах.

Результати показали, що в міцелярних розчинах аніонної ПАР константи дисоціації збільшуються порівняно з водними розчинами через додатковий внесок електростатичної складової міцелярної поверхні, якою зв’язується субстрат. У міцелярних розчинах цвітер-іонної ПАР значення констант дисоціації досліджуваної речовини незначно змінюються порівняно з водними розчинами, що свідчить про низький розподіл речовини між водною фазою та міцелярною псевдофазою, унаслідок нейтральної поверхні міцел цвітер-іонної ПАР.

Висновки. Досліджено кислотно-основні та спектральні характеристики вперше синтезованої субстанції 3-(трифлуороацетил)імідазо[1,2-a]піриміди­ну протигрибкової дії у воді та у міцелярних розчинах аніонної та цвітер-іонної ПАР. Розраховано константи ступінчастої дисоціації речовини у всіх досліджуваних системах.
ХРОМАТОГРАФІЧНІ ПРОФІЛІ ФЛАВОНОЇДІВ І ГІДРОКСИКОРИЧНИХ КИСЛОТ ВІТЧИЗНЯНИХ ЗРАЗКІВ ЛІКАРСЬКОЇ РОСЛИННОЇ СИРОВИНИ ЛИСТЯ ШОВКОВИЦІ БІЛОЇ
Authors: Vronska L. V. , Demyd A. Ye.
Published: July 2019

Мета роботи. Вивчення ТШХ- і ВЕРХ-профілів флавоноїдів і гідроксикоричних кислот вітчизняних зразків лікарської рослинної сировини листя шовковиці білої.

Матеріали і методи. Зразки сировини листя шовковиці білої було зібрано на початку червня 2015-2018 років в районах Тернопільської, Волинської, Харківської, Миколаївської областей, два зразки у різні роки було придбано у Польщі – харчова добавка (подрібнене листя) «Morwa biała» (APTEO NATURA, Польща).

У ТШХ-дослідженнях використовували хроматографічні пластинки Silica gel 60 F254 і хроматографічні камери (“Merck”, Німеччина), прилад для нанесення проб Linomat 5 (“CAMAG”, Швейцарія). При ВЕРХ-дослідженнях флавоноїдів і гідроксикоричних кислот застосовували рідинні хроматографи Agilent 1200 із детектором діодна матриця G1315D DAD Detector (“Agilent”, США)  і Waters Alliance System 2690 з детектором діодна матриця Waters 996 (“Waters”, США), хроматографічну колонку XTerra C18 (“Waters”, США), градієнтне елюювання.

Результати і обговорення. У результаті хроматографічних досліджень вітчизняних зразків листя шовковиці білої, зібраних у різних регіонах України, встановлено, що рутин, ізокверцитрин, кемпферол-3-O-β-D-глюкозид і хлорогенова кислота є головними представниками флавоноїдів і гідроксикоричних кислот. Кверцитрин і ферулова кислота ідентифікуються, але їхній вміст є незначним, що узгоджується із даними літератури щодо фітохімічного аналізу польських, сербських, китайських, корейських, угорських зразків сировини. У ТШХ-профілях, крім зазначених БАР, присутні характеристичні інтенсивні зони, які, ймовірно, належать іншим флавоноїдам і гідроксикоричним кислотам. Аналогічно ВЕРХ-профілі також містять піки не ідентифікованих речовин, спектри поглинання яких є характерними для флавоноїдів і гідроксикоричних кислот.

Висновки. Отримані ТШХ- і ВЕРХ- хроматографічні профілі флавоноїдів і гідроксикоричних кислот є аналогічними для різних зразків і можуть бути використані для розробки методик ідентифікації ЛРС листя шовковиці білої та засобів на її основі. Рутин, ізокверцитрин, кемпферол-3-O-β-D-глюкозид і хлорогенову кислоту слід обрати активними маркерами при наступній  розробці методик ідентифікації даної ЛРС методом “хроматографічного відбитка”.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ПЕРЕБІГУ ПОЛОГІВ У ВАГІТНИХ, ЗАЛЕЖНИХ ВІД ТЮТЮНОКУРІННЯ
Authors: Dudchenko L. V.
Published: July 2019

Мета дослідження – знизити частоту ускладнень вагітності і пологів у жінок за умов тютюнокуріння.

Матеріали та методи. Обстежено 75 вагітних. Вік вагітних коливався від 17 до 26 років. Вагітні основної групи розподілені на 2 підгрупи: 1-А групу склали 45 вагітних, що курили сигарети протягом вагітності; 1-Б групу склали 30 вагітних, що курили сигарети до вагітності і не зловживали тютюном упродовж теперішньої вагітності. Контрольну групу склали 40 здорових вагітних, які не курили і не перебували під впливом тютюнокуріння під час вагітності. Групи вагітних сформовані із дотриманням принципів рандомізації. Обстеження вагітних проводили відповідно до локальних протоколів та регламентуючих наказів МОЗ України.

Результати дослідження та їх обговорення. Виявлено, що дана когорта вагітних відноситься до високої групи ризику щодо перинатальних ускладнень. Встановлено, що тютюнокуріння у вагітних сприяє підвищенню частоти фетоплацентарної дисфункції, зростанню рівня анемії вагітних, загрози переривання вагітності, дистресу плода, прееклампсії, які ускладнюють клінічний перебіг пологів і підвищують частоту перинатальних ускладнень.

Висновок. Тютюнокуріння впродовж вагітності та пологів у жінок сприяє ускладненням гестації, значно підвищує ризик анемії вагітних, дисфункції плаценти, передчасних пологів і стану плода.
Privacy-Preserving Generative Deep Neural Networks Support Clinical Data Sharing
Authors: Beaulieu-Jones Brett K. , Wu Zhiwei Steven , Williams Chris , Lee Ran , Bhavnani Sanjeev P. , Byrd James Brian , Greene Casey S.
Published: July 2019

Background:

Data sharing accelerates scientific progress but sharing individual-level data while preserving patient privacy presents a barrier.

Methods and Results:

Using pairs of deep neural networks, we generated simulated, synthetic participants that closely resemble participants of the SPRINT trial (Systolic Blood Pressure Trial). We showed that such paired networks can be trained with differential privacy, a formal privacy framework that limits the likelihood that queries of the synthetic participants’ data could identify a real a participant in the trial. Machine learning predictors built on the synthetic population generalize to the original data set. This finding suggests that the synthetic data can be shared with others, enabling them to perform hypothesis-generating analyses as though they had the original trial data.

Conclusions:

Deep neural networks that generate synthetic participants facilitate secondary analyses and reproducible investigation of clinical data sets by enhancing data sharing while preserving participant privacy.
Prevalence of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Childhood Glomerular Diseases
Authors: Ashoor Isa F. , Mansfield Sarah A. , O'Shaughnessy Michelle M. , Parekh Rulan S. , Zee Jarcy , Vasylyeva Tetyana L. , Kogon Amy J. , Sethna Christine B. , Glenn Dorey A. , Chishti Aftab S. , Weaver Donald J. , Helmuth Margaret E. , Fernandez Hilda E. , Rheault Michelle N. ,   the CureGN Consortium, Kallash M. , Gipson P. , Malaga‐Dieguez L. , Gillespie B. , Gipson D.S. , Kretzler M. , Robinson B.M.
Published: July 2019

Background

Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children with chronic kidney disease. We sought to determine the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in children with glomerular disease and to describe current practice patterns regarding risk factor identification and management.

Methods and Results

Seven‐hundred sixty‐one children aged 0 to 17 years with any of 4 biopsy‐confirmed primary glomerular diseases (minimal change disease, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, membranous nephropathy, and IgA nephropathy/vasculitis) were enrolled at a median of 16 months from glomerular disease diagnosis in the multicenter prospective Cure Glomerulonephropathy Network study. Prevalence of traditional (hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity) and novel (proteinuria, prematurity, and passive smoke exposure) cardiovascular risk factors were determined at enrollment and compared across glomerular disease subtypes. Frequency of screening for dyslipidemia and prescribing of lipid‐lowering or antihypertensive medications were compared across glomerular disease subtype, steroid exposure, and remission status groups. Compared with the general population, all traditional risk factors were more frequent: among those screened, 21% had hypertension, 51% were overweight or obese, and 71% had dyslipidemia. Children who were not in remission at enrollment were more likely to have hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. Fourteen percent of hypertensive children were not receiving antihypertensives. Only 49% underwent screening for dyslipidemia and only 9% of those with confirmed dyslipidemia received lipid‐lowering medications.

Conclusions

Children with primary glomerular diseases exhibit a high frequency of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, particularly untreated dyslipidemia. Lipid panels should be routinely measured to better define the burden of dyslipidemia in this population. Current approaches to screening for and treating cardiovascular risk factors are not uniform, highlighting a need for evidence‐based, disease‐specific guidelines.
Myocardial Infarction With Nonobstructive Coronary Arteries: A Call for Individualized Treatment
Authors: Mukherjee Debabrata
Published: July 2019

See Article
Choo et al
The ‘Same Bed, Different Dreams’ of Vietnam and China
Authors: Vuong Quan-Hoang , Vuong Thu-Trang , Ho Manh-Tung , Nguyen Hong-Kong T.
Published: July 2019

Vietnam–China relations could be captured in the Chinese expression ‘同床异梦’, ‘same bed, different dreams’. Analysing Vietnam–China’s asymmetric relationship, cultural and political similarities, divergences in global ambition and the involvement of foreign powers, this study shows how the relationship is increasingly interdependent but is equally fragile. One possible cause is the low level of trust on both sides, evidenced by repeated calls to ‘consolidate political trust’ or ‘enhance mutual trust’ in their high-level bilateral dialogues.
Three new species of Colomastix Grube, 1861 (Amphipoda: Colomastigidea) from Todos-os-Santos Bay, northeastern Brazilian coast,
with identification keys to Atlantic Ocean species
Authors: SILVANY LIZ , SENNA ANDRÉ R.
Published: July 2019

Colomastigids are small, commensal marine amphipods distributed worldwide. Here we present descriptions of three new species of Colomastix Grube, 1861 from Todos-os-Santos Bay (Bahia state), and separately identification keys to males and females of all known Colomastix species from the Atlantic Ocean. Males of Colomastix iemanja sp. nov. can be distinguished from all others in the genus especially by the bifurcate apex of inner ramus of uropod 1, with highly asymmetric branches surrounded by a membranous-like structure. Males of Colomastix tubulosa sp. nov. can be distinguished from all others in the genus especially by the tube-like morphology of the apex of inner ramus of uropod 1, the morphology of the distalmost palmar process of gnathopod 2 and by the expanded inner ramus of uropod 2. Females of Colomastix iemanja sp. nov. and Colomastix tubulosa sp. nov. are the only species in the Atlantic with a pleated apex on dactylus of gnathopod 2, besides Colomastix trispinosa Silvany, Alves & Senna, 2019. Colomastix marielle sp. nov. can be distinguished from all other species in the genus by the elongate carpus of pereopod 5 of females and by the rudder-like morphology of the apex of inner ramus of uropod 1 of males. These three new species increase the number of Colomastix in the Atlantic from 18 to 21, and are amongst the first records of the suborder Colomastigidea Lowry & Myers, 2017 from Brazilian waters.
The Cognitive Dimension of Household Labor
Authors: Daminger Allison
Published: July 2019

Household labor is commonly defined as a set of physical tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and shopping. Sociologists sometimes reference non-physical activities related to “household management,” but these are typically mentioned in passing, imprecisely defined, or treated as equivalent to physical tasks. Using 70 in-depth interviews with members of 35 couples, this study argues that such tasks are better understood as examples of a unique dimension of housework: cognitive labor. The data demonstrate that cognitive labor entails anticipating needs, identifying options for filling them, making decisions, and monitoring progress. Because such work is taxing but often invisible to both cognitive laborers and their partners, it is a frequent source of conflict for couples. Cognitive labor is also a gendered phenomenon: women in this study do more cognitive labor overall and more of the anticipation and monitoring work in particular. However, male and female participation in decision-making, arguably the cognitive labor component most closely linked to power and influence, is roughly equal. These findings identify and define an overlooked—yet potentially consequential—source of gender inequality at the household level and suggest a new direction for research on the division of household labor.