bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Computational Model for Astrocytes and Their Role in Biologically Realistic Neural Networks
Authors: Sajedinia Zahra , Hélie Sébastien
Published: July 2018

Recent studies in neuroscience show that astrocytes alongside neurons participate in modulating synapses. It led to the new concept of “tripartite synapse”, which means that a synapse consists of three parts: presynaptic neuron, postsynaptic neuron, and neighboring astrocytes. However, it is still unclear what role is played by the astrocytes in the tripartite synapse. Detailed biocomputational modeling may help generate testable hypotheses. In this article, we aim to study the role of astrocytes in synaptic plasticity by exploring whether tripartite synapses are capable of improving the performance of a neural network. To achieve this goal, we developed a computational model of astrocytes based on the Izhikevich simple model of neurons. Next, two neural networks were implemented. The first network was only composed of neurons and had standard bipartite synapses. The second network included both neurons and astrocytes and had tripartite synapses. We used reinforcement learning and tested the networks on categorizing random stimuli. The results show that tripartite synapses are able to improve the performance of a neural network and lead to higher accuracy in a classification task. However, the bipartite network was more robust to noise. This research provides computational evidence to begin elucidating the possible beneficial role of astrocytes in synaptic plasticity and performance of a neural network.
Gum Arabic Fibers Decreased Inflammatory Markers and Disease Severity Score among Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients, Phase II Trial
Authors: Kamal Ebtihal , Kaddam Lamis AbdelGadir , Dahawi Maha , Osman Montaser , Salih Mohammed Abdelraman , Alagib Alnour , Saeed Amal
Published: July 2018

Background.Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is autoimmune inflammatory disease that attacks the synovium of the joints. Both TNFaand interleukin-1 play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of RA. Gum Arabic (GA) is gummy exudates fromAcacia senegaltree. Gum Arabic fermentation by colonic bacteria increases serum butyrate concentrations, so it is considered as prebiotic agent. Gum Arabic (GA) has anti-inflammatory activity through its derivative butyrate. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study conducted to investigate GA intake on inflammatory markers among RA patients.Patients and Methods.This is clinical trial phase II in which 40 patients were enrolled aged 18 to 70 years. Patients received 30g/day GA for 12 weeks. TNFα, ESR, and complete blood count were measured and DAS-28 was calculated before and after regular GA consumption. Study was approved by the Ethical committee of National Medicines and Poisons Board.Results.This study showed significant decrease in level of serum TNFα(p value 0.05) [95% CI, 0.65 -16.5], ESR (p value 0.011) [95% CI, 2.6 -18.89], and number of swollen and tender joints in RA patients after 12 weeks of GA intake which reflected as significant decrease in disease severity score DAS 28 P.V:0.00 [95% CI, 1.25 -1.99]. On the other hand, GA had trivial change in blood indices.Conclusion.Gum Arabic has favorable immune modulator effect on rheumatoid arthritis. It can be utilized in clinical practice as adjuvant therapy.Trial Registration.This trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT02804581Registered at 19 June 2016, prospective registration.
High-Active Metallic-Activated Carbon Catalysts for Selective Hydrogenation
Authors: Carrara Nicolás , Betti Carolina , Coloma-Pascual Fernando , Almansa María Cristina , Gutierrez Laura , Miranda Cristian , Quiroga Mónica E. , Lederhos Cecilia R.
Published: July 2018

A series of low-loaded metallic-activated carbon catalysts were evaluated during the selective hydrogenation of a medium-chain alkyne under mild conditions. The catalysts and support were characterized by ICP, hydrogen chemisorption, Raman spectroscopy, temperature-programmed desorption (TPD), temperature-programmed reduction (TPR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR micro-ATR), transmission electronic microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectronic spectroscopy (XPS). When studying the effect of the metallic phase, the catalysts were active and selective to the alkene synthesis. NiCl/C was the most active and selective catalytic system. Besides, when the precursor salt was evaluated, PdN/C was more active and selective than PdCl/C. Meanwhile, alkyne is present in the reaction media, and geometrical and electronic effects favor alkene desorption and so avoid their overhydrogenation to the alkane. Under mild conditions, nickel catalysts are considerably more active and selective than the Lindlar catalyst.
Injection-Triggered Occlusion of Flow Pathways in Geothermal Operations
Authors: Brehme Maren , Regenspurg Simona , Leary Peter , Bulut Fatih , Milsch Harald , Petrauskas Sigitas , Valickas Robertas , Blöcher Guido
Published: July 2018

Reasons for injectivity decline were investigated in a low-enthalpy geothermal aquifer in Klaipeda (Lithuania). It is one of the study sites within the DESTRESS project, which demonstrates different stimulation techniques in geothermal reservoirs. Due to low injectivity, production rates from the Lithuanian field are currently reduced, which lead to negative commercial implications for the site. Productivity from the same wells is measured to be 40 times higher. Injectivity decline in aquifers is often related to clogging processes in spatially correlated highly permeable structures, which control the main flow volume. We subdivided clogging processes into (1) physical, (2) chemical, and (3) biological processes and studied them by analyzing fluid and solid samples as well as operational data. The methods we used are fluid and solid analyses in situ, in the laboratory and in experimental setups, statistical interpretation, and numerical modeling. Our results show that the spatially correlating nature of permeable structures is responsible for exponentially decreasing injectivity because few highly permeable zones clog rapidly by intruded particles. In particular, field operations cause changes of the physical, chemical, and biological processes in the aquifer. Mineral precipitation and corrosion are the main chemical processes observed at our site. Microbial activity causes biofilm while fines migration is caused by changes in physical boundary conditions. Moreover, these processes can affect each other and generate further reactions, for example, microbial activity triggers corrosion in surface pipelines.
An Indoor Navigation System Based on Stereo Camera and Inertial Sensors with Points and Lines
Authors: Yang Bo , Xu Xiaosu , Zhang Tao , Li Yao , Tong Jinwu
Published: July 2018

An indoor navigation system based on stereo camera and inertial sensors with points and lines is proposed to further improve the accuracy and robustness of the navigation system in complex indoor environments. The point and line features, which are fast extracted by ORB method and line segment detector (LSD) method, are both employed in this system to improve its ability to adapt to complex environments. In addition, two different representations of lines are adopted to improve the efficiency of the system. Besides stereo camera, an inertial measurement unit (IMU) is also used in the system to further improve its accuracy and robustness. An estimator is designed to integrate the camera and IMU measurements in a tightly coupled approach. The experimental results show that the performance of the proposed navigation system is better than the point-only VINS and the vision-only navigation system with points and lines.
TR-IDS: Anomaly-Based Intrusion Detection through Text-Convolutional Neural Network and Random Forest
Authors: Min Erxue , Long Jun , Liu Qiang , Cui Jianjing , Chen Wei
Published: July 2018

As we head towards the IoT (Internet of Things) era, protecting network infrastructures and information security has become increasingly crucial. In recent years, Anomaly-Based Network Intrusion Detection Systems (ANIDSs) have gained extensive attention for their capability of detecting novel attacks. However, most ANIDSs focus on packet header information and omit the valuable information in payloads, despite the fact that payload-based attacks have become ubiquitous. In this paper, we propose a novel intrusion detection system named TR-IDS, which takes advantage of both statistical features and payload features. Word embedding and text-convolutional neural network (Text-CNN) are applied to extract effective information from payloads. After that, the sophisticated random forest algorithm is performed on the combination of statistical features and payload features. Extensive experimental evaluations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Contextual Fear Memory Formation and Destabilization Induce Hippocampal RyR2 Calcium Channel Upregulation
Authors: More Jamileth , Casas María Mercedes , Sánchez Gina , Hidalgo Cecilia , Haeger Paola
Published: July 2018

Hippocampus-dependent spatial and aversive memory processes entail Ca2+ signals generated by ryanodine receptor (RyR) Ca2+ channels residing in the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. Rodents exposed to different spatial memory tasks exhibit significant hippocampal RyR upregulation. Contextual fear conditioning generates robust hippocampal memories through an associative learning process, but the effects of contextual fear memory acquisition, consolidation, or extinction on hippocampal RyR protein levels remain unreported. Accordingly, here we investigated if exposure of male rats to contextual fear protocols, or subsequent exposure to memory destabilization protocols, modified the hippocampal content of type-2 RyR (RyR2) channels, the predominant hippocampal RyR isoforms that hold key roles in synaptic plasticity and spatial memory processes. We found that contextual memory retention caused a transient increase in hippocampal RyR2 protein levels, determined 5 h after exposure to the conditioning protocol; this increase vanished 29 h after training. Context reexposure 24 h after training, for 3, 15, or 30 min without the aversive stimulus, decreased fear memory and increased RyR2 protein levels, determined 5 h after reexposure. We propose that both fear consolidation and extinction memories induce RyR2 protein upregulation in order to generate the intracellular Ca2+ signals required for these distinct memory processes.
Piper Essential Oils Inhibit Rhizopus oryzae Growth, Biofilm Formation, and Rhizopuspepsin Activity
Authors: Almeida Catia A. , Azevedo Mariana M. B. , Chaves Francisco C. M. , Roseo de Oliveira Marcelo , Rodrigues Igor A. , Bizzo Humberto R. , Gama Paola E. , Alviano Daniela S. , Alviano Celuta S.
Published: July 2018

Piper is the largest genus of the Piperaceae family. The species of this genus have diverse biological activities and are used in pharmacopeia throughout the world. They are also used in folk medicine for treatment of many diseases in several countries including Brazil, China, India, Jamaica, and Mexico. In Brazil, Piper species are distributed throughout the national territory, making this genus a good candidate for biological activity screening. During our studies with Piper essential oils, we evaluated its activity against Rhizopus oryzae, the main agent of mucormycosis. The main compounds of seven Piper essential oils analyzed were Piper callosum—safrole (53.8%), P. aduncum—dillapiole (76.0%), P. hispidinervum—safrole (91.4%), P. marginatum—propiopiperone (13.2%), P. hispidum—γ-terpinene (30.9%), P. tuberculatum—(E)-caryophyllene (30.1%), and Piper sp.—linalool (14.6%). The minimum inhibitory concentration of Piper essential oils against R. oryzae ranged from 78.12 to >1250 μg/mL. The best result of total inhibition of biofilm formation was obtained with Piper sp. starting from 4.88 μg/mL. Considering the bioactive potential of EOs against planktonic cells and biofilm formation of R. oryzae could be of great interest for development of antimicrobials for therapeutic use in treatment of fungal infection.
Emotion Recognition Based on Weighted Fusion Strategy of Multichannel Physiological Signals
Authors: Wei Wei , Jia Qingxuan , Feng Yongli , Chen Gang
Published: July 2018

Emotion recognition is an important pattern recognition problem that has inspired researchers for several areas. Various data from humans for emotion recognition have been developed, including visual, audio, and physiological signals data. This paper proposes a decision-level weight fusion strategy for emotion recognition in multichannel physiological signals. Firstly, we selected four kinds of physiological signals, including Electroencephalography (EEG), Electrocardiogram (ECG), Respiration Amplitude (RA), and Galvanic Skin Response (GSR). And various analysis domains have been used in physiological emotion features extraction. Secondly, we adopt feedback strategy for weight definition, according to recognition rate of each emotion of each physiological signal based on Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier independently. Finally, we introduce weight in decision level by linear fusing weight matrix with classification result of each SVM classifier. The experiments on the MAHNOB-HCI database show the highest accuracy. The results also provide evidence and suggest a way for further developing a more specialized emotion recognition system based on multichannel data using weight fusion strategy.
Design of a Small-Size Broadband Circularly Polarized Microstrip Antenna Array
Authors: Zhou Pingyuan , Zhang Zhuo , He Mang , Hao Yihang , Zhang Chuanfang
Published: July 2018

A small-size 2×2 broadband circularly polarized microstrip antenna array is proposed in this article. The array has four broadband dual-feed U-slot patch antenna elements with circular polarization, and the sequential feeding technique is used to further enhance the 3 dB axial ratio bandwidth. The lateral size of the fabricated array is as small as 1.33λ0×1.33λ0, and the profile is only 0.04λ0. Measured results show that the overlapped −10 dB reflection coefficient and the 3 dB AR bandwidth is 53%, and the variation of the measured realized gain is less than 1 dB for S-band satellite communications (1.98–2.2 GHz).
Application of Surface Spline Interpolation Method in Parameter Estimation of a PM2.5 Transport Adjoint Model
Authors: Li Ning , Lv Xianqing , Zhang Jicai
Published: July 2018

A new method for the estimation of initial conditions (ICs) in a PM2.5 transport adjoint model is proposed in this paper. In this method, we construct the field of ICs by interpolating values at independent points using the surface spline interpolation. Compared to the traditionally used linear interpolation, the surface spline interpolation has an advantage for reconstructing continuous smooth surfaces. The method is verified in twin experiments, and the results indicate that this method can produce better inverted ICs and less simulation errors. In practical experiments, simulation results show good agreement with the ground-level observations during the 22nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit period, demonstrating that the new method is effective in practical application fields.
Changes to Neural Activation Patterns (c-fos Labeling) in Chinchilla Auditory Midbrain following Neonatal Exposure to an Enhanced Sound Environment
Authors: D’Alessandro Lisa M. , Harrison Robert V.
Published: July 2018

Sensory brain regions show neuroplastic changes following deficits or experimental augmentation of peripheral input during a neonatal period. We have previously shown reorganization of cortical tonotopic maps after neonatal cochlear lesions or exposure to an enhanced acoustic environment. Such experiments probe the cortex and show reorganization, but it is unclear if such changes are intrinsically cortical or reflect projections from modified subcortical regions. Here, we ask whether an enhanced neonatal acoustic environment can induce midbrain (inferior colliculus (IC)) changes. Neonatal chinchillas were chronically exposed to a 70 dB SPL narrowband (2 ± 0.25 kHz) sound stimulus for 4 weeks. In line with previous studies, we hypothesized that such exposure would induce widening of the 2 kHz tonotopic map region in IC. To probe c-fos expression in IC (central nucleus), sound-exposed and nonexposed animals were stimulated with a 2 kHz stimulus for 90 minutes. In sound-exposed subjects, we find no change in the width of the 2 kHz tonotopic region; thus, our hypothesis is not supported. However, we observed a significant increase in the number of c-fos-labeled neurons over a broad region of best frequencies. These data suggest that neonatal sound exposure can modify midbrain regions and thus change the way neurons in IC respond to sound stimulation.
Robust Output Control of an Uncertain Underactuated 2DOF Mass-Spring-Damper System with Backlash Based on Active Disturbance Rejection Control Structure
Authors: Mario Mora C. , David Rosas A. , Raul Rascon C. , Ricardo Cuesta G.
Published: July 2018

We propose a strategy to solve the tracking and regulation problem for a 2DOF underactuated mass-spring-damper system with backlash on the underactuated joint, parametric uncertainties, and partial measurement of the state vector. The design of the controller is divided into two stages; in the first stage, it is assumed that the full state vector and all perturbations in the system are available. The model is divided into one actuated subsystem and one underactuated subsystem. The position of the actuated mass is defined as the control input of the underactuated subsystem, which is designed as an ideal controller that solves the tracking and regulation control problems for the underactuated mass. Finally, the control input of the actuated subsystem is designed to solve the tracking problem considering as a reference signal the control signal of the underactuated subsystem. The second stage solves the problem of the implementation of the previously designed ideal controller using the active disturbances rejection control structure (ADRC). Here state observers estimate the nonmeasured state variables and, at the same time, estimate perturbations and auxiliary signals for their compensation. The performance of the closed-loop system is illustrated by numerical simulations and experimental results.
Catgut Implantation at Acupoint Reduces Immune Reaction in a Rat Model of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Yang Shasha , Wu Jing , Zhang Qinxiu , Li Xinrong , Liu Daien , Zeng Bin , Gao Hongjiao , Yan Xiaolin , Zhong Zhendong
Published: July 2018

Allergic rhinitis (AR), an IgE‐mediated response, is characterized by a Th2‐type immunological pattern together with mast cells activation. Acupuncture, with the use of implanted catgut, is a traditional therapy that has been widely applied for the treatment of AR. However, the exact mechanism of the immunomodulatory effects of catgut implantation at acupoint (CIAA) remains unclear, in part due to the lack of a suitable laboratory animal model. We developed and optimized a rat model of ovalbumin‐ (OVA‐) induced allergic inflammation, characterized by increased IL‐4, sIgE, and SP and reciprocal decrease of IFN‐γ. In the present study, we have further used this model to address the immunomodulatory effects of CIAA stimulation at Yingxiang (LI20) and Zusanli (ST36) acupoints and to elucidate the mechanisms involved in the regulation of SP, sIgE, IL‐4, IFN‐γ, TLR2, and TLR4. After AR model was established via OVA challenge, the rats were randomized as follows: control, model, sham‐operated, 1‐week CIAA (C1), 2‐week CIAA (C2), and Budesonide nasal spray. The C1 and C2 groups were subjected to the bilateral acupoint Yingxiang (LI20) and Zusanli (ST36), respectively. Multiple analyses and quantifications were performed, which revealed that due to the persistent stimulus to acupoints by embedding catgut, the C2 group improved AR symptoms, compared to the C1 group. We conclude that CIAA at the Yingxiang (LI20) and Zusanli (ST36) acupoints effectively reduces allergic symptoms and inflammatory parameters in the rat model of AR. Thus, CIAA treatment is potentially an alternative therapeutic modality in AR.
A Formula Adaptive Pixel Pair Matching Steganography Algorithm
Authors: Long Min , Li Fenfang
Published: July 2018

Pixel pair matching (PPM) is widely used in digital image steganography. As an important derivation, adaptive pixel pair matching method (APPM) offers low distortion and allows embedded digits in any notational system. However, APPM needs additional space to store, calculate, and query neighborhood set, which needs extra cost. To solve these problems, a formula adaptive pixel pair matching (FAPPM) method is proposed in this paper. The basic idea of FAPPM is to use the formula to get the stego image pixel pair without searching the neighborhood set for the given image pixel pair. This will allow users to embed secret message directly without storing and searching the look-up table. Experimental results and analysis show that the proposed method could embed secret data directly without searching the neighborhood sets by using a formula and it still maintains flexibility in the selection of notional system, high image quality, and strong anti-steganalysis ability.
Infinite Element Static‐Dynamic Unified Artificial Boundary
Authors: Song Zhiqiang , Wang Fei , Liu Yujie , Su Chenhui
Published: July 2018

The method, which obtains a static‐dynamic comprehensive effect from superposing static and dynamic effects, is inapplicable to large deformation and nonlinear elastic problems under strong earthquake action. The static and dynamic effects must be analyzed in a unified way. These effects involve a static‐dynamic boundary transformation problem or a static‐dynamic boundary unified problem. The static‐dynamic boundary conversion method is tedious. If the node restraint reaction force caused by a static boundary condition is not applied, then the model is not balanced at zero moment, and the calculation result is distorted. The static numerical solution error is large when the structure possesses tangential static force in a viscoelastic static‐dynamic unified boundary. This paper proposed a new static‐dynamic unified artificial boundary based on an infinite element in ABAQUS to solve static‐dynamic synthesis effects conveniently and accurately. The static and dynamic mapping theories of infinite elements were introduced. The characteristic of the infinite element, which has zero displacement at faraway infinity, was discussed in theory. The equivalent nodal force calculation formula of infinite element unified boundary was deduced from an external wave input. A calculation and application program of equivalent nodal forces was developed using the Python language to complete external wave inputting. This new method does not require a static and dynamic boundary transformation and import of stress field and constraint counterforce of boundary nodes. The static calculation precision of the infinite element unified boundary is more improved than the viscoelastic static‐dynamic unified boundary, especially when the static load is in the tangential direction. In addition, the foundation simulation range of finite field can be significantly reduced given the utilization of the infinite element static dynamic unified boundary. The preciseness of static calculation and dynamic calculation and static‐dynamic comprehensive analysis are unaffected.
An Analytical Model for a Pneumatic Vibration Isolator with the Stiffness Effect of the Elastomeric Diaphragm
Authors: Xu Dengfeng , Yu Qiang , Shen Fei , Zhu Yu , Guan Gaofeng
Published: July 2018

The elastomeric diaphragm is widely used in pneumatic vibration isolators, and the relevant model is often ignored due to its complexity. Considering that the ignored model of the elastomeric diaphragm in pneumatic vibration isolators plays an important role in the discrepancy between the predicted and practical behavior, this paper develops an analytical model for the elastomeric diaphragm using the Mooney‐Rivlin modeling method and elastomeric theory. Specifically, the elastomeric diaphragm consists of several segments in the axial section. After considering the structural restriction, each segment can be simplified as uniaxial stretching, and the force‐strain equation can be established for each segment. By combining the equations of all segments, an analytical model of the elastomeric diaphragm can be built and solved via numerical methods. The developed model is added to the standard model of pneumatic cylinders to supply a complete analytical model for pneumatic vibration isolators. The experimental results demonstrate that the analytically predicted behavior is similar to the practical behavior. The proposed analytical model can be used as a guide for the parameter design of pneumatic isolators in practice.
Synthesis, Structure, DNA Interaction, and SOD Activity of Three Nickel(II) Complexes Containing L-Phenylalanine Schiff Base and 1,10-Phenanthroline
Authors: Zhao Peiran , Zhai Shanshan , Dong Jianfang , Gao Lei , Liu Xinru , Wang Lei , Kong Jinming , Li Lianzhi
Published: July 2018

Three hexacoordinated octahedral nickel(II) complexes, [Ni(sal-L-phe)(phen)(CH3OH)]⋅CH3OH (1), [Ni(naph-L-phe)(phen)(CH3OH)] (2), and [Ni(o-van-L-phe)(phen)(CH3OH)]⋅5CH3OH (3) (sal-L-phe = a Schiff base derived from salicylaldehyde and L-phenylalanine, naph-L-phe = a Schiff base derived from 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde and L-phenylalanine, o-van-L-phe = a Schiff base derived from o-vanillin and L-phenylalanine, and phen = 1,10-phenanthroline), have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectra, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The interactions of these complexes with CT-DNA were studied by UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism spectroscopy, and viscosity measurements. The binding constant (Kb) values of 1.82 × 104 M−1 for 1, 1.96 × 104 M−1 for 2, and 2.02 × 104 M−1 for 3 suggest that each of these complexes could bind with DNA in a moderate intercalative mode. Complex 3 exhibited a stronger interaction with CT-DNA than complexes 1 and 2. In addition, the superoxide scavenging activity of these complexes was investigated by the nitrotetrazolium blue chloride (NBT) light reduction method, and the results showed that they exhibited a significant superoxide scavenging activity with the IC50 values of 4.4 × 10−5 M for complex 1, 5.6 × 10−5 M for complex 2, and 3.1 × 10−5 M for complex 3, respectively.
Different Harmonic Characteristics Were Found at Each Location on TCM Radial Pulse Diagnosis by Spectrum Analysis
Authors: Tsai Yun-Ning , Huang Yi-Chia , Lin Sunny Jui-Shan , Lee Shen-Ming , Cheng Yung-Yen , Chang Yu-Hsin , Su Yi-Chang
Published: July 2018

Purpose. This study aimed to clarify whether it is appropriate to choose any measurement location for pulse diagnosis research. Methods. A total of 37 subjects were recruited and measured for pulse pressure waves at 18 locations (9 per hand of “three positions and nine indicators”). These data were Fourier‐transformed to the frequency spectrum, and the harmonics of C0‐C10 of each location were obtained. Box plots of the harmonics were generated using SPSS v.22.0 and R v.3.4.1. Data were compared with multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) with a randomized block design. Results. The results showed that certain harmonics were different at different positions and different indicators; the harmonics of the same indicator at different positions (except for C8 and C10) and those of different indicators for the same position (except for C4 and C5) were significantly different (p<0.05). Conclusions. In future researches of pulse diagnosis, due to the significant differences between positions and indicators, it is recommended that the measurement position should be carefully chosen instead of choosing any measurement location to ensure the integrity of the acquired information for further analyzing physiological or pathological status.
Estimation of Soil‐Water Characteristic Curve for Cohesive Soils with Methylene Blue Value
Authors: Zhang Junhui , Peng Junhui , Chen Yejuan , Li Jue , Li Feng
Published: July 2018

This study described a new methylene blue test to measure the methylene blue value (MBV) for 15 cohesive soils and established the relationship between MBV and plasticity index (PI) and between MBV and percent passing No. 200 sieve (P200), respectively. Thereafter, the soil‐water characteristic curves (SWCCs) for 15 cohesive soils based on Fredlund and Xing’s model were generated by the pressure plate test. Then, regression equations for determining the four fitting parameters in a previously developed SWCC equation by using the measured MBV were utilized to generate the SWCC for the cohesive soils. At the same time, the slope parameter, bf, in the SWCC equations was found to be associated with the moisture susceptibility of cohesive soils. A higher bf value indicates that the material is more moisture susceptible. In addition, a lower MBV/PI/P200 shows a lower suction at the same degree of saturation; on the other hand, a higher MBV/PI/P200 presents a higher suction. Therefore, the moisture‐holding capacity of cohesive soils increases with increasing MBV, PI, and P200. Finally, the proposed estimation method was validated by a comparison between the four determined fitting parameters from MBV and the pressure plate test.
Antiadherence and Antimicrobial Properties of Silver Nanoparticles against Streptococcus mutans on Brackets and Wires Used for Orthodontic Treatments
Authors: Espinosa-Cristóbal León Francisco , López-Ruiz Natalie , Cabada-Tarín Denisse , Reyes-López Simón Yobanny , Zaragoza-Contreras Armando , Constandse-Cortéz Daniel , Donohué-Cornejo Alejandro , Tovar-Carrillo Karla , Cuevas-González Juan Carlos , Kobayashi Takaomi
Published: July 2018

White spot lesions (WSLs) are very frequent alterations during orthodontic treatments causing demineralization of the dental enamel. Various dental treatments have been developed to prevent WSLs; the prevalence and incidence of these lesions remain significantly high. Although silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have demonstrated good inhibitory effects against several microorganisms, more studies about antiadherence activity on different orthodontic appliance surfaces are necessary. To determine the inhibitory effect and antiadherence activity of AgNPs on the adhesion of S. mutans on surfaces of brackets and wires for orthodontic therapies, two sizes of AgNPs were prepared and characterized. The evaluation of S. mutans adhesion was performed with microbiological assays on surfaces of brackets and orthodontic modules in triplicate. Topographic characteristics of orthodontic brackets and wires were made by scanning electron and atomic force microscopies. All AgNP samples inhibited S. mutans adhesion; however, the smaller AgNPs had better inhibition than the larger ones. The presence of the module influenced the adhesion of S. mutans but not in the activity of AgNPs. The AgNPs used in this study showed to have good antimicrobial and antiadherence properties against S. mutans bacteria determining its high potential use for the control of WSLs in orthodontic treatments.
Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Ameliorates Cardiac Toxicity Induced by Boldenone Undecylenate through Inhibition of NADPH Oxidase and Reduction in the Expression of NOX2 and NOX4
Authors: Tousson Ehab , Elgharabawy Rehab Mohmed , Elmasry Thanaa Ahmed
Published: July 2018

The effect of anabolic androgenic steroids on the cardiovascular system is poorly understood. Increased production of free radicals is coupled to the pathophysiology of many alterations within the circulatory system. The only function of the enzyme family NADPH oxidases (NOXs) is the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, this study investigated the beneficial role of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) in ameliorating cardiac toxicity induced by the anabolic steroid Boldenone in male rats through NOX inhibition and reduction in the expression of NOX2 and NOX4. This study was conducted on forty male rats which are divided into four groups (normal control, positive control or GSPE, Boldenone, and posttreatment Boldenone with GSPE). A significant increase in relative body weight, relative heart weight, and hemodynamic parameters, as well as serum concentrations of lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, creatine kinase‐muscle brain, myoglobin, cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, risk factor 1/2, K+, and Cl−, in treated rats with Boldenone when compared with control. We also noted a significant increase in the levels of cardiac malondialdehyde, H2O2 generation in heart tissues, mRNA expression of NOX2 and NOX4, and immunoreactivity to proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Posttreated rats with Boldenone and GSPE ameliorated cardiac toxicity via inhibition of NOX and a reduction in alteration of the expression of NOX2, NOX4, and PCNA induced by Boldenone. These novel insights into the antioxidative activity of GSPE should serve as a basis for the development of improved chemopreventive or therapeutic strategies for cardiac toxicity.
Effect of Wine Wastes Extracts on the Viability and Biofilm Formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus Strains
Authors: Viola Carolina María , Torres-Carro Romina , Cartagena Elena , Isla María Inés , Alberto María Rosa , Arena Mario Eduardo
Published: July 2018

In this work, we intended to inhibit the biofilm synthesis and the metabolism of Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria using two highly available wastes (stem and marc) obtained after the manufacturing of Torrontes wine at Cafayate, Argentina. Wine wastes contain a significant amount of bioactive compounds, mainly phenolic compounds, which makes them a potential source of compounds with beneficial properties to human health, as they could inhibit the virulence of pathogenic bacteria or protect the tissue against oxidative stress. Marc and stem extracts of Torrontes wine were evaluated for their ability to inhibit the metabolism and biofilm production of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus strains. The phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity of these extracts were also determined. The methanol and ethyl acetate extracts, which contained the highest amount of total polyphenolic, exhibited the highest scavenging capacity of ABTS and nitric oxide and the strongest Fe3+ reducing power and exhibited the highest level of inhibition of the biofilm formation and of the metabolic activity in bacterial biofilm. We also noticed a positive correlation between phenolic compounds content, the antioxidant activity, and the anti‐biofilm capacity of the winemaking wastes. These results display the potentiality of wine wastes to prevent or reduce the formation of biofilm. Moreover, their abundance makes them an attractive and affordable source of antibiofilm and antioxidant agents.
Microstructures, Mineral Compositions, and Mechanical Properties of Red‐Layers in Southern China
Authors: Zhang Huizhi , Liu Jifeng
Published: July 2018

In order to reveal the water‐induced damage mechanism and mechanical properties of red‐layers in Southern China, typical red‐layer samples are experimentally studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy spectrum analysis, XRD, and mechanical tests. The results show that some red‐layer samples contain a large number of smectite and illite‐smectite mixed‐layer clay minerals and their microstructures are mainly stacked microaggregates in which mutual agglomeration is formed by flake and tabular clay particles. Widespread distribution micropores and fractures in microaggregates provide the necessary moisture migration channels. The various cemented materials produce a kind of irreversible structural strength, and this strength is vulnerable for the aqueous medium conditions. The influence of microstructures and mineral compositions on red‐layer mechanical properties is discussed. The results could provide the reference for further research about the water‐induced damage mechanism of red‐layers in Southern China.
Rotational Behavior of Column Footing Joint and Its Effect on the Dynamic Characteristics of Traditional Chinese Timber Structure
Authors: Qin Shujie , Yang Na , Dai Lu
Published: July 2018

Chinese heritage timber buildings are of high historical and cultural values. The column footing joint is an important connection influencing the structural performance under dynamic load. The moment‐rotation relationship of a column footing joint is studied and the effects of vertical load and ratio of column height to diameter on its rotational behavior are analyzed. A spring elements model is proposed to simulate the column footing joint and its stiffness matrix can be simplified to include only one stiffness parameter K with some assumptions. A component‐based finite‐element model of a timber pavilion is then developed to investigate the effect of rotational stiffness on the structural dynamic characteristics. Results show that a heavier vertical load may lead to larger ultimate moment capacity of the joint. The initial rotational stiffness and ultimate moment capacity decrease with increasing column height to diameter ratio. The modal frequency of the structure studied changes remarkably when the rotational stiffness K varies from 104 to 108 N▪m/rad. The column footing joints should be regarded as semirigid connections in the structural dynamic analysis. A field experiment was also conducted to further demonstrate that the rotational stiffness of column footing joint has notable influence on the dynamic characteristics of traditional Chinese timber structure.
Replication Stress Drives Constitutive Activation of the DNA Damage Response and Radioresistance in Glioblastoma Stem-like Cells
Authors: Carruthers Ross D. , Ahmed Shafiq U. , Ramachandran Shaliny , Strathdee Karen , Kurian Kathreena M. , Hedley Ann , Gomez-Roman Natividad , Kalna Gabriela , Neilson Mathew , Gilmour Lesley , Stevenson Katrina H. , Hammond Ester M. , Chalmers Anthony J.
Published: July 2018

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a lethal primary brain tumor characterized by treatment resistance and inevitable tumor recurrence, both of which are driven by a subpopulation of GBM cancer stem–like cells (GSC) with tumorigenic and self-renewal properties. Despite having broad implications for understanding GSC phenotype, the determinants of upregulated DNA-damage response (DDR) and subsequent radiation resistance in GSC are unknown and represent a significant barrier to developing effective GBM treatments. In this study, we show that constitutive DDR activation and radiation resistance are driven by high levels of DNA replication stress (RS). CD133+ GSC exhibited reduced DNA replication velocity and a higher frequency of stalled replication forks than CD133− non-GSC in vitro; immunofluorescence studies confirmed these observations in a panel of orthotopic xenografts and human GBM specimens. Exposure of non-GSC to low-level exogenous RS generated radiation resistance in vitro, confirming RS as a novel determinant of radiation resistance in tumor cells. GSC exhibited DNA double-strand breaks, which colocalized with “replication factories” and RNA: DNA hybrids. GSC also demonstrated increased expression of long neural genes (>1 Mbp) containing common fragile sites, supporting the hypothesis that replication/transcription collisions are the likely cause of RS in GSC. Targeting RS by combined inhibition of ATR and PARP (CAiPi) provided GSC-specific cytotoxicity and complete abrogation of GSC radiation resistance in vitro. These data identify RS as a cancer stem cell–specific target with significant clinical potential.

Significance: These findings shed new light on cancer stem cell biology and reveal novel therapeutics with the potential to improve clinical outcomes by overcoming inherent radioresistance in GBM. Cancer Res; 78(17); 5060–71. ©2018 AACR.
Periocular Histiocytoid Carcinoma: Potential Diagnostic Challenges
Authors: Yates Joseph R. , Mines Michael J. , Subramanian Prem S. , Rivera-Michlig Roxana , Cummings Thomas J. , Eberhart Charles G.
Published: July 2018

Cutaneous histiocytoid carcinoma can occur as a primary tumor of the periocular region. Morphologically similar histiocytoid carcinomas arising as primary tumors of the breast have a predilection for orbital metastases. They can occasionally contain regions with prominent vacuolated cytoplasm and minimal nuclear atypia, which mimic benign histiocytic lesions. Differentiating nonneoplastic, primary neoplastic, and metastatic histiocytoid lesions involving the periorbita can be challenging for both the clinician and the pathologist, and this distinction has management implications. Herein, we present 3 cases to illustrate the challenges of diagnosing periocular histiocytoid carcinoma.
Association of Thyroid Function With the Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate in a Large Chinese Euthyroid Population
Authors: Wang Kunlin , Xie Kaipeng , Gu Liubao , Xu Bo , Chen Jihai , Lou Qinglin , Yu Yun , Shan Shan , Wu Dan , Dai Linli , Hu Cuining , Shen Zhixiang , Tang Wei
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: We aimed to explore whether thyroid function within a normal range is associated with the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and the incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in a large Chinese population. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study that included 10,859 euthyroid individuals who underwent an annual regular health checkup in Jiangsu Province Official Hospital between August 2012 and August 2013. We measured the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4) levels using a Roche modular analytics E170 and then calculated the eGFR using the Chinese modified Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (CMDRD) equation. Results: In multiple linear regression models, TSH was negatively associated with eGFR after adjusting for confounding factors (β = -0.072, P = 1.994×10-22). The significance remained in both males and females. No significant association was observed between FT4 and eGFR. In the logistic regression model, we did not observe significant associations of TSH or FT3 with CKD. Participants in the highest quartile of FT4 versus the lowest quartile (reference) had an increased risk of CKD (OR = 1.763, P = 0.012). The risk of CKD was more pronounced in females with the highest quartile of FT4 (OR = 2.424, P = 0.029). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that TSH is associated with eGFR in euthyroid individuals and that higher FT4 is associated with an increased risk of CKD. More cohort studies are warranted to confirm whether the association is causal.
Transcriptome Profiling of Panc-1 Spheroid Cells with Pancreatic Cancer Stem Cells Properties Cultured by a Novel 3D Semi-Solid System
Authors: Yang Zhaocong , Zhang Yanfeng , Tang Tingting , Zhu Qinhua , Shi Wanyue , Yin Xin , Xing Yun , Shen Yumeng , Pan Yi  , Jin Liang
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: Pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest human malignancies, the lethality of which may be attributed to the presence of pancreatic cancer stem cells (PCSCs), a small subpopulation of cells existing within pancreatic tumor with high carcinogenesis. Therefore, it is crucial to establish an efficient enrichment and culture system of PCSCs and identify the key genes involved in the regulation of PCSCs. The three-dimensional (3D) liquid suspension mammosphere culture system has been established for enrichment and culture of PCSCs in vitro as the cell spheres are likely to originate from individual cell clone, but it has been challenged because the cell spheroids could be a result of cell aggregation. Methods: We optimized the existing culture system by adding methylcellulose to create a 3D semi-solid system which prevented the non-specific aggregation. Then we identified the CSC properties of Panc-1 spheroid cells cultured by this system by detecting the genes associated with stemness and by evaluation of the tumorigenicity in vitro and in vivo through invasion, migration and xenograft experiments methods. Subsequently, we performed high-throughput sequencing (HTS) of the Panc-1 spheroid cells. Results: We confirmed the PCSCs properties and high malignancy of the Panc-1 spheroid cells enriched by our novel 3D semi-solid system both in vitro and in vivo. Hundreds of mRNA, microRNA (miRNA) and dozens of long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) were identified to be differentially regulated in PCSCs-like Panc-1 spheroid cells compared with their parental cells by HTS. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate an efficient enrichment and culture system for Panc-1 spheroid cells with the PCSCs properties. The differentially expressed genes and their targets identified by the HTS of the Panc-1 spheroid cells can serve as new potential biomarkers for pancreatic cancer diagnosis and targeted therapy.
MiR-137 Suppresses Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Stemness and Tumorigenesis by Perturbing BCL11A-DNMT1 Interaction
Authors: Chen Feiyu , Luo Na , Hu Yu , Li Xin , Zhang Kejing 
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is resistant to conventional chemotherapy due to high proportions of cancer stem cells (CSCs). The aim of this study is to unravel the miR-137-mediated regulatory mechanism of B-cell lymphoma/leukemia 11A (BCL11A) in TNBC. Methods: A corhort of 34 TNBC tumor tissues and paired adjacent normal tissues, as well as 25 non-TNBC tumor tissues and paired adjacent normal tissues were collected post-operatively from patients with breast cancer. Q-PCR was performed to determine the mRNA levels of miR-137 and BCL11A in breast tissues and cell lines. Bioinformatics analysis and dual luciferase reporter assay were used to verify the direct interaction between miR-137 and BCL11A. After up-/down-regulation of BCL11A, miR-137, or DNMT1 via lentiviral transduction in TNBC cell lines SUM149 and MDA-MB-231 cells, Q-PCR and Western blot assays were used to detect the expression levels of BCL11A, DNA methyltransferases 1 (DNMT1), and Islet-1 (ISL1). Mammosphere assay was conducted to assess tumorosphere formation ability of cells, coupled with flow cytometry to determine the percentage of breast cancer stem cells. Co-immunoprecipitation assay was used to determine the interaction between BCL11A and DNMT1. Xenograft tumorigenesis assay was performed to monitor tumor formation in vivo. Results: BCL11A was highly expressed in TNBC, whereas miR-137 was significantly lower in both TNBC tissues and cell lines. miR-137 suppressed BCL11A expression at both mRNA and protein levels by directly targeting its 3’UTR. In both SUM149 and MDA-MB-231 cells, overexpression of miR-137 or knockdown of BCL11A reduced the number of tumoroshperes and the percentage of cancer stem cells in vitro, and inhibited tumor development in vivo. Furthermore, BCL11A interacted with DNMT1 in TNBC cells. Silencing of either BCL11A or DNMT1 impaired cancer stemness and tumorigenesis of TNBC via suppressing ISL1 expression both in vitro, and in vivo. Conclusions: By perturbing BCL11A-DNMT1 interaction, miR-137 impairs cancer stemness and suppresses tumor development in TNBC.