bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bilateral series and Ramanujan radial limits of mock (false) theta functions
Authors: Chen Bin
Published: March 2019

Ramanujan gave a list of seventeen functions which he called mock theta functions. For one of the third-order mock theta functions [Formula: see text], he claimed that as [Formula: see text] approaches an even order [Formula: see text] root of unity [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] He also pointed at the existence of similar properties for other mock theta functions. Recently, [J. Bajpai, S. Kimport, J. Liang, D. Ma and J. Ricci, Bilateral series and Ramanujan’s radial limits, Proc. Amer. Math. Soc. 143(2) (2014) 479–492] presented some similar Ramanujan radial limits of the fifth-order mock theta functions and their associated bilateral series are modular forms. In this paper, by using the substitution [Formula: see text] in the Ramanujan’s mock theta functions, some associated false theta functions in the sense of Rogers are obtained. Such functions can be regarded as Eichler integral of the vector-valued modular forms of weight [Formula: see text]. We find two associated bilateral series of the false theta functions with respect to the fifth-order mock theta functions are special modular forms. Furthermore, we explore that the other two associated bilateral series of the false theta functions with respect to the third-order mock theta functions are mock modular forms. As an application, the associated Ramanujan radial limits of the false theta functions are constructed.
Plasmon spectrum of graphene monolayer on substrate
Authors: Askerzade I. N. , Askerbeyli R. T.
Published: March 2019

Plasmon modes in monolayer graphene on substrate are analyzed taking into account the thickness of graphene and substrate material layer in the evaluation of Coulomb potential. It is shown that plasmon mode in graphene monolayer has linear dispersion in contrast to multilayer graphene in long-wavelength limit. The slope of plasmon spectrum is determined by the thickness and dielectric constant of substrate. Obtained results are in good agreement with experimental data and other theoretical considerations.
First-Principles Study of Structural and Electronic Properties of MoS1.5Se0.5 Alloy
Authors: Gusakova J. , Tay B. K. , Gusakov V.
Published: March 2019

The effects of relative positions of Se atoms in a monomolecular layer of MoS[Formula: see text]Se[Formula: see text] have been studied. It is demonstrated that the distribution of Se atoms between top and bottom chalcogen planes is most energetically favorable. For a more probable distribution of Se atoms this monolayer alloy is a direct semiconductor with the fundamental bandgap of 2.35[Formula: see text]eV. We have also evaluated the optical band gaps of the alloy at 77[Formula: see text]K (1.86[Formula: see text]eV) and room temperature (1.80[Formula: see text]eV), which are in a good agreement with the experimentally measured bandgap of 1.79[Formula: see text]eV.
Optical Transmission and Reflection of Nanostructured Cu(In,Ga)Se2 Thin Films Irradiated with Hydrogen Ions
Authors: Mudryi A. , Borodavchenko O. , Zhivulko V. , Yakushev M. , Sulimov M.
Published: March 2019

The bandgaps of 1.187[Formula: see text]eV in non-irradiated nanostructured thin films of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGSe) and of 1.182[Formula: see text]eV in those films irradiated with 10[Formula: see text]keV hydrogen ions were determined using optical transmission and reflection spectroscopy at 4.2[Formula: see text]K. The observed reduction in the bandgap is assigned to the formation of secondary antisite defect complexes inducing band tails of the density of states in the valence band.
Under the influence of crowding effects: Stability, bifurcation and chaos control for a discrete-time predator–prey model
Authors: Abbasi Muhammad Aqib , Din Qamar
Published: March 2019

The interaction between predators and preys exhibits more complicated behavior under the influence of crowding effects. By taking into account the crowding effects, the qualitative behavior of a prey–predator model is investigated. Particularly, we examine the boundedness as well as existence and uniqueness of positive steady-state and stability analysis of the unique positive steady-state. Moreover, it is also proved that the system undergoes Hopf bifurcation and flip bifurcation with the help of bifurcation theory. Moreover, a chaos control technique is proposed for controlling chaos under the influence of bifurcations. Finally, numerical simulations are provided to illustrate the theoretical results. These results of numerical simulations demonstrate chaotic long-term behavior over a broad range of parameters. The presence of chaotic behavior in the model is confirmed by computing maximum Lyapunov exponents.
Cornstalk-based manganese dioxide nanoparticles for methylene blue decontamination
Authors: Wang Qi , Ma Xulu , Tang Jianke , Song Zhengwei , Wu Yiwei , Yang Hong , Zhang Cuihong , Ma Chunlei
Published: March 2019

Cornstalk-based MnO2 nanoparticles (MnO2 NPs) were synthesized from KMnO4 through an in situ redox reaction. The synthesis was performed under an open system and did not need complicated apparatus, giving its advantages of easy operation, low cost and green synthesis. Combining the adsorption capacity with oxidation activity, the as-prepared cornstalk-based MnO2 NPs were applied to methylene blue (MB) decontamination. It was demonstrated that the removal efficiency was 79.88% in 60[Formula: see text]min by adsorption in water and reached up to 95.16% in pH [Formula: see text] 3 buffer with the help of oxidation. Most importantly, the decontamination materials could be separated simply by taking them out from MB solutions during the monitoring process or after treatment, avoiding the fussy centrifugation or filtration. This advantage endows the cornstalk-based MnO2 NPs superiority and would raise concerns in water decontamination.
Automorphisms of prime-cube order group
Authors: Wang Yi
Published: March 2019

A graph is called half-arc-transitive if its full automorphism group acts transitively on vertices and edges, but not on arcs. Let [Formula: see text] be a prime-cube order group. In this paper, we determined the structures of the automorphism groups of [Formula: see text], and the result is used to determine the classification of half-arc-transitive graphs of order [Formula: see text] with valency [Formula: see text].
SenPUI: Solutions for Sensing and Primary User Interference in Cognitive Radio Implementation of a Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Besher Kedir Mamo , Nieto-Hipolito Juan-Ivan , Vazquez Briseno Mabel , Buenrostro Mariscal Raymundo
Published: March 2019

After an introduction of cognitive radio (CR) technology in communication, the hot research topics are sensing, Primary User Interference (PUI), spectrum management, security, spectrum sharing, and environmental sensing. Among the listed, sensing and Primary User Interference are the bold ones. The base query for these two problems lays finding a means for which and what channel at a particular time is available and avoiding interference with Primary Users (PU). This article presents a novel cognitive radio algorithm called SenPUI for both mentioned main challenges, sensing and PUI. First, energy scan during the inactive portion of communication which is dynamic is done. Second, application packet based primary user identification for PUI avoidance is proposed as base solution. Both techniques described in this work are implemented and resulted in a significant reduction of the target problems estimated around 10-30% reduction in average. Main limitations of Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) such as memory, battery lifetime, and size are considered during the design and implementation of our solutions.
A Simple Competing Endogenous RNA Network Identifies Novel mRNA, miRNA, and lncRNA Markers in Human Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Ge Chunlin
Published: March 2019

Background. Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is the second most common malignant primary liver tumor and has shown an alarming increase in incidence over the last two decades. However, the mechanisms behind tumorigenesis and progression remain insufficient. The present study aimed to uncover the underlying regulatory mechanism on CCA and find novel biomarkers for the disease prognosis. Method. The RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) datasets of lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs in CCA as well as relevant clinical information were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. After pretreatment, differentially expressed RNAs (DERNAs) were identified and further interrogated for their correlations with clinical information. Prognostic RNAs were selected using univariate Cox regression. Then, a ceRNA network was constructed based on these RNAs. Results. We identified a total of five prognostic DEmiRNAs, 63 DElncRNAs, and 90 DEmRNAs between CCA and matched normal tissues. Integrating the relationship between the different types of RNAs, an lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network was established and included 28 molecules and 47 interactions. Screened prognostic RNAs involved in the ceRNA network included 3 miRNAs (hsa-mir-1295b, hsa-mir-33b, and hsa-mir-6715a), 7 lncRNAs (ENSG00000271133, ENSG00000233834, ENSG00000276791, ENSG00000241155, COL18A1-AS1, ENSG00000274737, and ENSG00000235052), and 18 mRNAs (ANO9, FUT4, MLLT3, ABCA3, FSCN2, GRID2IP, NCK2, MACC1, SLC35E4, ST14, SH2D3A, MOB3B, ACTL10, RAB36, ATP1B3, MST1R, SEMA6A, and SEL1L3). Conclusions. Our study identified novel prognostic makers and predicted a previously unknown ceRNA regulatory network in CCA and may provide novel insight into a further understanding of lncRNA-mediated ceRNA regulatory mechanisms in CCA.
Modeling and Analysis of Vehicle Shimmy with Consideration of the Coupling Effects of Vehicle Body
Authors: Li Xiaogao , Zhang Ning , Jin Xianjian , Chen Nan
Published: March 2019

Based on the Lagrange equation, a 9‐degrees‐of‐freedom shimmy model with consideration of the coupling effects between the motions of vehicle body and the shimmy of front wheels and a 5‐degrees‐of‐freedom shimmy model ignoring these coupling effects for a vehicle with double‐wishbone independent front suspensions are presented here to study the problem of vehicle shimmy. According to the eigenvalue loci of system’s Jacobian matrix plotted on the complex plane, the Hopf bifurcation characteristics of nonlinear shimmy are studied and the conditions for the generation of limit cycle are analyzed. Numerical calculation and simulation are used to study the dynamic behavior of vehicle shimmy. By comparing the dynamic responses of two different shimmy models, the coupling effects of vehicle body on vehicle shimmy are studied. Finally, the relationship between the amplitude of each DoF and vehicle velocity and the influences of vehicle parameters such as the mass of vehicle body, the longitudinal position of the center of gravity of vehicle body, and the inclination angle of front suspension on shimmy are studied.
Research on Local Dynamic Path Planning Method for Intelligent Vehicle Lane-Changing
Authors: Liu Zhi-qiang , Zhang Teng , Wang Yi-fan
Published: March 2019

A local dynamic path planning method is proposed to compensate for the lack of consideration of the movement state of surrounding vehicles, the poor comfort, and the low traffic efficiency when the existing vehicle changes lanes automatically. Firstly, the cubic polynomial is predefined, and the optimal track path is solved. According to the real-time information of environment perception, the model is continuously modified by acquiring real-time information in the course of path planning, and the regional safety of the vehicle is realized. The Carsim and simulink simulation results and actual vehicle verification show that, compared with the traditional nondynamic research method, this method can effectively solve the problem that the vehicle speed variation and the sudden intrusions of the vehicle leading to the compulsory operation of the vehicle during the course of lane-changing. The safety is also improved. In order to ensure the vehicle comfort and stability, the lane-changing time is shortened by 20%, and the efficiency of lane-changing is improved obviously.
Creation of Secondary Porosity in Dolostones by Upwelling Basement Water in the Foreland of the Alpine Orogen
Authors: Aschwanden Lukas , Diamond Larryn W. , Mazurek Martin , Davis Donald W.
Published: March 2019

Creation of secondary dissolution porosity in carbonate rocks during deep burial has the potential to improve reservoir properties for hydrocarbons, gas storage, and geothermal applications. However, the occurrence and mechanisms of such porosity enhancement are controversial. Here, we present compelling evidence for generation of deep burial porosity from the Swiss Molasse Basin, where dissolution of eogenetic anhydrite nodules in dolostones of the Middle Triassic Muschelkalk increased the matrix porosity by up to 15 vol.%. We reconstruct the genesis and evolution of the anhydrite-dissolution porosity based on petrography, porosity determinations, analyses of stable and radiogenic isotopes (δ2H, δ18O, δ34S, and 87Sr/86Sr), fluid inclusion studies, and laser U–Pb geochronology of secondary calcite. The results show that modified meteoric waters derived from the Variscan crystalline basement ascended via basement–cover cross-formational faults into the overlying Muschelkalk, where they dissolved the anhydrite nodules throughout an area of at least 55 km2 at 700–2300 m depth and 40–160°C. Secondary calcite in anhydrite moulds yields Late Eocene to Middle Miocene U–Pb ages, which coincide with the timing of basement uplift in the foreland bulge of the Swiss Alpine Orogen. This uplift provided the hydraulic gradients to drive meteoric water deep into the adjacent Molasse basin. Similar enhancement of reservoir properties can be expected in dolostones in other foreland basins that are bordered by a foreland bulge in which fractured basement rocks are exhumed.
DNA Methylation of miR-122 Aggravates Oxidative Stress in Colitis Targeting SELENBP1 Partially by p65NF-κB Signaling
Authors: Bai Jianan , Yu Junchi , Wang Jintian , Xue Bingyan , He Na , Tian Ye , Yang Lixia , Wang Yipin , Wang Yanyan , Tang Qiyun
Published: March 2019

Aberrant microRNA (miRNA) expressions contribute to the development and progression of various diseases, including Crohn’s disease (CD). However, the accurate mechanisms of miRNAs in CD are definitely unclear. We employed colonic tissue samples from normal volunteers and CD patients, an acute mice colitis model induced by 2,4,6-trinitro-benzene-sulfonic acid (TNBS), and a cellular oxidative stress model induced by H2O2 in HT-29 cells to determine the effects of oxidative stress on expressions of miR-122, selenium-binding protein 1 (SELENBP1, SBP1), p65 nuclear factor κB (p65NF-κB) signaling, and DNA methylation. We found that SBP1 was mainly located on epithelial cells and was significantly increased in patients with active CD. SBP1 was the target gene of miR-122. miR-122 expression was downregulated while SBP1 expression was upregulated under TNBS-induced colitis or oxidative stress. Pre-miR-122 or siRNA SBP1 (si-SBP1) treatment ameliorated acute TNBS-induced colitis and H2O2-induced oxidative stress. Cotreatment of pre-miR-122 and si-SBP1 enhanced these effects. Besides, pre-miR-122 and si-SBP1 obviously activated the p65NF-κB signaling by phosphorylation of IκBα. Bisulfite sequencing of the CpG islands in the promoter region of miR-122 showed that CpG methylation was significantly increased under oxidative stress. Treating cells with 5′-AZA which was well known as a DNA-demethylating agent significantly increased miR-122 expression. Our results suggest that oxidative stress-induced DNA methylation of miR-122 aggravates colitis targeting SELENBP1 partially by p65NF-κB signaling and may promote the progression of CD.
HOTTIP Functions as a Key Candidate Biomarker in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Integrated Bioinformatic Analysis
Authors: Yin Xiteng , Yang Weidong , Xie Junqi , Wei Zheng , Tang Chuanchao , Song Chuanhui , Wang Yufeng , Cai Yu , Xu Wenguang , Han Wei
Published: March 2019

Background.Accumulating evidence has demonstrated the pivotal role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks for predicting survival and evaluating prognosis in cancer patients. However, the pathogenesis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains unclear, and prognostic biomarkers for HNSCC are still lacking.Methods.A total of 546 RNA sequencing profiles of HNSCC patients with clinical outcome data were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, providing a large sample of RNA sequencing data. From these, 71 Long noncoding RNAs lncRNAs, 8 microRNAs (miRNAs), and 16 messenger RNAs (mRNAs) were identified to construct a HNSCC-specific ceRNA network (fold change >2, P < 0.05). Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional regression models were used to assess independent indicators of prognosis. Then the expression of lncRNAs harboring prognostic value was validated in human HNSCC cell lines and tumor samples from our cohort and another two datasets from GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) databases.Results.As a result, a 3-mRNA signature and 6-lncRNA signature were identified. The six-lncRNA signature exhibited the highest prognostic value. Notably, in the six lncRNAs, HOTTIP showed the greatest prognostic value and was significantly correlated with clinical stage and histological grade of HNSCC patients. Furthermore, it was proved that HOTTIP was upregulated in HNSCC cell lines and cancerous tissues compared with corresponding normal cell lines and normal tissues. Functional assessment analysis revealed that HOTTIP might play a key role in the oncogenesis and progression of HNSCC.Conclusion. The present study deepened our understanding of the ceRNA-related regulatory mechanism in the pathogenesis of HNSCC and identified candidate prognostic biomarkers for clinical outcome prediction in HNSCC. HOTTIP may function as a key candidate biomarker in HNSCC and serve as a prognostic marker for HNSCC patients.
Is Stiff Person Syndrome Benefited by Physical Therapy Intervention? Summary of Case Reports
Authors: Vaiyapuri Anandh , Kashyap Prashant , Kashyap Nivedita , Muthusamy Hariraja , Unnikrishnan Radhakrishnan , Alqahtani Mazen
Published: March 2019

It is interesting to be aware that there is no Randomized Clinical Trials (RCT) research article except a few case-study reports which have been reported about the physical therapy (PT) intervention for stiff person syndrome (SPS). This study was designed to determine the benefits of PT in cases with SPS through analysis of case reports, thereby to raise awareness among physical therapist about the most beneficial PT interventions for SPS. We executed acomputer-based search with a diagnosis of SPS who underwent PT and articles published only in English. We selected case-study reports because of nonavailability of RCT articles to review the complaints, deformities, contractures, precipitating factors, interventions, outcomes, results, disability, and benefits of PT management among SPS. We concluded that PT training is substantiated to be a necessary and beneficial intervention in rehabilitation of patients with SPS.
Graphene Oxide Films Obtained by Vacuum Filtration: X-Ray Diffraction Evidence of Crystalline Reorganization
Authors: Gascho Julia L. S. , Costa Sara F. , Recco Abel A. C. , Pezzin Sérgio H.
Published: March 2019

In this study, films of graphene oxide and chemically or thermally reduced graphene oxide were produced by a simple vacuum filtration method and submitted to a thorough characterization by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman and infrared spectroscopies, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, confocal microscopy, and contact angle measurements. Graphene oxide (GO) was produced from graphite by the modified Hummers method and thereafter reduced with NaBH4 or by heating under argon in a tubular furnace. The films were produced from aqueous solutions by vacuum filtration on a cellulose membrane. Graphite presents two characteristic XRD peaks corresponding to d=0.34 nm and d=0.17 nm. After oxidation, only a peak at d=0.84 nm is found for powder GO, confirming the insertion of oxygen groups with an increase in the interplanar distance of graphene nanoplatelets. However, for GO films, other unexpected peaks are observed at d=0.63 nm, d=0.52 nm, and d=0.48 nm. After reduction, both chemical and thermal, the peak at 0.84 nm disappears, while those corresponding to interplanar distances of 0.63 nm, 0.52 nm, and 0.48 nm are still present. The other characterizations confirm the production and chemical composition of GO and reduced GO films. The results indicate the combination of crystalline regions with different interplanar distances, suggesting the ordering of graphene/graphene oxide intercalated sheets.
A Multistage Feedback Control Strategy for Producing 1,3‐Propanediol in Microbial Continuous Fermentation
Authors: Bei Honghan , Wang Lei , Sun Jing , Zhang Liwei
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we consider a multistage feedback control strategy for producing 1,3‐propanediol in microbial continuous fermentation. Both the dilution rate and the concentration of glycerol in the input feed are used as control variables, and these variables are further assumed to be in the form of a linear combination of biomass and glycerol concentrations. Unlike the general form of linear feedback control, the coefficients of linear combination are continuous functions with respect to time. Inspired by the control parameterization method, we use the piecewise‐constant functions to approximate the coefficient functions; then we get the multistage feedback control law by solving nonlinear mathematical programming problems. Numerical results indicate the flexibility and effectiveness of our strategy.
The Acute Phase Proteins Reaction in Children Suffering from Pseudocroup
Authors: Pucher Beata , Sobieska Magdalena , Grzegorowski Michal , Szydlowski Jaroslaw
Published: March 2019

The aim of the study was to evaluate the inflammatory reaction in children with pseudocroup and compare it with other laryngological diseases according to the available literature data. The study group included 51 children hospitalized because of pseudocroup. The measurements of the acute phase proteins (APP), such as C-reactive protein (CRP), alpha-1-antitrypsin (AT), alpha-1-antichymotrypsin (ACT), alpha-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP), ceruloplasmin (Cp), transferrin (Tf), alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M), and haptoglobin (Hp) were obtained at 3 time points. The glycosylation profiles of AGP, ACT, and Tf were completed. An increased AGP level was observed in girls. The AGP glycosylation revealed the advantage of the W0 variant over the W1 variant. W1 and W2 were decreased in boys. W3 emerged in boys. The Tf concentration and T4 variant were lower compared to the control group. The A2M level was lower after treatment. The Hp and AT levels were decreased a few weeks later. The ACT glycosylation revealed a decrease of the A4 variant in boys. In conclusion, the inflammatory reaction during pseudocroup was of low intensity. The APP glycosylation suggested a chronic process. In a follow-up investigation, no normalization of the parameters was noted, but signs of persistent inflammation were observed.
Clinical and Pathological Analysis of 4910 Patients Who Received Renal Biopsies at a Single Center in Northeast China
Authors: Nie Ping , Chen Rui , Luo Manyu , Dong Changqing , Chen Liangmei , Liu Juan , Hu Liangqian , Li Bing , Luo Ping
Published: March 2019

Purpose. To identify the epidemiology and pathological types of kidney diseases and their changes during the past decade, in a population from Northeast China.Methods. We retrospectively analysed clinical and renal pathological data from 4910 patients who received renal biopsies in the Second Hospital of Jilin University from 2008 to 2017.Results. Males received more renal biopsies than females (p< 0.001). The average age (p< 0.001) and percentage of elderly patients (p< 0.001) increased over time. The pathological types were primary glomerulonephritis (PGN, 73.2%), secondary glomerulonephritis (SGN, 23.7%), tubular-interstitial nephropathy (TIN, 2.8%), and hereditary nephropathy (HN, 0.3%). The most common forms of PGN were membranous nephropathy (MN, 37.2%) and IgA nephropathy (IgAN, 29.9%). Over time, the prevalence of IgAN decreased, but the prevalence of MN increased. MN was more common in middle-aged and elderly patients, but IgAN was most common in young adults. Analysis of SGN data indicated that lupus nephritis (LN, 34.0%), Henoch-Schönlein purpura glomerulonephritis (HSPN, 17.9%), and diabetic nephropathy (DN, 11.7%) were the most common forms. Over time, the prevalence of DN (p= 0.003), hypertension-associated renal damage (p= 0.005), and systemic vasculitis-associated nephritis (SVARD,p< 0.001) increased, but the prevalence of HSPN (p< 0.001) and hepatitis B virus-associated glomerulonephritis (HBV-GN,p= 0.001) decreased. Nephrotic syndrome was the main clinical manifestation of PGN.Conclusion. From 2008 to 2017, renal biopsies were increasingly performed in the elderly. There were notable changes in the epidemiology and pathological types of kidney disease among renal biopsy patients at our centre.
Experimental Study of a Multipoint Random Dynamic Loading Identification Method Based on Weighted Average Technique
Authors: Gai Xiaonan , Yu Kaiping
Published: March 2019

Most of random dynamic loading identification research studies are about the original inverse pseudoexcitation method which does not fundamentally reduce the negative effect of ill‐conditioned frequency response function matrix on accuracy of loading identification. This paper describes a new improved method based on weighted average technique to reduce peak errors between identified load spectrum and the actual load spectrum near some natural frequencies. Meanwhile, relative error of root mean square value between identified load and the actual load is reduced. The introduced selection method of threshold value is innovative which is the key of weighted average technique. This improved loading identification method is successfully applied to experiments of cantilever beam and thermal protection composite plate structure. Identification results prove that the proposed method is valid by good agreement between identified power spectrum density and the actual one. Moreover, this method has higher accuracy than inverse pseudoexcitation method in low‐frequency band.
Modification of Alginate Hydrogel Films for Delivering Hydrophobic Kaempferol
Authors: Ye Yuanfeng , Zhang Xiaojuan , Deng Xiang , Hao Lingyun , Wang Wei
Published: March 2019

The high hydrophilicity of alginate materials makes delivering a high load of hydrophobic drug difficult. To overcome this drawback, sodium alginate (SA) was modified using octylamine (OA), and then kaempferol (KP) was combined with the alginate solution through the hydrophobic interaction between OA and KP. The modified SA/KP (MSA/KP) hydrogel films were ionically cross-linked by immersing in calcium chloride solution. Subsequently, the products were analyzed via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, contact angle test, thermogravimetric analysis, swelling analysis, water vapor transmission, and mechanical property test. Results showed that compared with the SA hydrogel films, the MSA/KP hydrogel films exhibited an interporous structure, good swelling, and mechanical properties. Moreover, the drug release experiments demonstrated that the MSA/KP hydrogel films achieved a KP encapsulation efficiency of 70.4%, with a sustained KP release of up to 80 h. The cell viability experiments demonstrated that the MSA/KP hydrogel films posed no evident cytotoxicity to human umbilical vein endothelial cells.
Influence of lithium in neuron-glia interaction in hippocampal neurons
Authors: Rocha Nicole Kemberly Ribeiro , Forlenza Orestes V. , Kerr Daniel S. , Brentani Helena , Paula Vanessa De Jesus Rodrigues de
Published: March 2019

Recently, special attention has been given to the possible neuroprotective effects of lithium, especially by the discovery of its regulatory effects on pro and anti-apoptotic proteins. Lithium substantially increases the cytoprotective proteins expression in the central nervous system, both in rat cortex and in human cells of neuronal origin. In addition to neuroprotective actions, it aids in the regeneration of axons in the central nervous system of mammals. Lithium negatively regulates the expression and activity of enzymes that exert important functions in cerebral homeostasis: synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis, and phosphorylation of tau protein. Microglia is known for its importance in neuropathology. However, under physiological conditions, such immune cells interact actively with neurons, being able to modulate the fate and functions of the synapses. Such ability of microglial cells suggests the consequences of changes in microglial phenotype under pathological conditions, which makes it relevant to understand the interaction between microglial and other developing brain cells and their influence on the formation of neuronal and synaptic networks. The current work aims to identify the main pathway of neuronal-glia integration activated by chronic treatment with lithium in neurons, exploring the use of bioinformatics tools in microarray data. Treatment of primary hippocampal neurons with lithium changed the genes related to different neuroprotection pathways at the highest therapeutic dose. There was dissociation between the therapeutic and sub-therapeutic dose of lithium in neuroprotection. Therefore, treatment at therapeutic doses (2mM) modified different signaling pathways when compared to the sub-therapeutic dose (0.02 and 0.2mM).
Características clínicas e epidemiológicas dos partos ocorridos em um hospital maternidade da cidade de Sobral/CE
Authors: Moreira Amanda Cavalcante , Santos Victória de Maria Pereira Rocha , Andrade Sarah Gonzalez de , Vasconcelos Yuri Ananias de , Bem Samaia de Souza , Castro Rebecca Queiroz de , Carneiro José Klauber Roger , Oliveira Maria Auxiliadora Silva
Published: March 2019

Objetivos: Objetivou-se traçar as características clínicas e epidemiológicas de parturientes assistidas em um hospital e maternidade do interior do Ceará. Metodologia: Trata-se de uma pesquisa retrospectiva, quantitativa e descritiva, tendo como fonte de dados os prontuários de gestantes atendidas no ano de 2015. Foi analisado um total de 1.111 prontuários sendo coletado o tipo de parto, característica dos partos normais, índice de Apgar aos 5 minutos, idade materna, número de consulta pré-natal, idade gestacional, escolaridade e justificativa para o parto cesário. Resultados: Os resultados revelam que o parto cesário foi predominante com 50,67%. Em relação às características dos partos normais houve 35,42% de episiotomia. Tanto no parto vaginal quanto cesário, tiveram índice de Apgar aos 5’ entre 8 e 10 em sua maioria; houve predomínio da idade materna entre 21-30 anos de idade; em relação ao número de consultas foram realizadas mais de 7 consultas; para duração de gestação a maioria esteve entre 37 e 41 semanas, sendo considerada a termo; mães com nível médio de escolaridade fizeram mais parto cesário e 27,27% destes partos foram justificados por alto-risco/pré - eclampsia. Conclusão: Há necessidade por parte do poder público investir mais em educação sexual, visto que foi encontrado gestante em idade menor. Também em relação ao número alto de partos cesarianos há que se ter maior atenção sobre o assunto, já que encontra-se fora dos padrões numéricos estabelecidos.
Chemical components separation with the use of Botulinum toxin A
Authors: Mesquita Gustavo Heluani Antunes de , Jardim Yuri Justi , Martines Diego Ramos , Iuamoto Leando Ryuchi , Nii Fernanda , Waisberg Daniel Reis , Meyer Alberto
Published: March 2019

Introdução: Hérnias ventrais são um resultado prevalente de cirurgias abdominais que podem representar um desafio cirúrgico em casos complexos, principalmente devido à tensão na musculatura da parede abdominal. A falha na correção cirúrgica pode levar a necessidade de um tratamento mais mórbido, além de um considerável impacto socioeconômico. Para que o risco de complicações seja menor, o uso da toxina botulínica A (TBA) pode ser uma alternativa pré-operatória para reduzir a tensão da parede abdominal, através de uma paralisia sustentada e reversível. Esta revisão crítica da literatura propõe avaliar o uso adjacente de TBA em correções de hérnias ventrais cirúrgicas. Métodos: Usando o banco de dados PubMed, as palavras-chave “ventral hernia” e “botullinum toxin” foram pesquisadas usando o operador “AND”. Os artigos foram selecionados com base em sua relevância e informações atualizadas. Os desfechos de interesse incluíram a mudança na largura do defeito da hérnia ventral e no comprimento do músculo da parede abdominal lateral, dor, recidiva de hérnia e complicações. Resultados: Foram encontrados 20 artigos de 2009 a 2018. Foram excluídos artigos devido à técnica irrelevante, uso de modelos animais e falta de dados sobre resultados. Redução da espessura da parede abdominal aumentando seu comprimento, menos dor perioperatória, redução de hérnia e correção com menos tensão foram observados após o uso da injeção de BTA. Nenhuma complicação ocorreu durante as aplicações. Conclusão: O uso de TBA parece ser uma alternativa promissora no manejo de hérnias ventrais devido à sua capacidade de reduzir a tensão na parede abdominal. No entanto, mais estudos são necessários para determinar a eficácia deste método.
Hepatic angiosarcoma
Authors: Arruda Vivian Nunes , Andrade Melissa de , Gonçalves Rhafir
Published: March 2019

Hepatic Angiosarcoma is a rare malignancy of endothelial cell origin that is generally idiopathic and presents non-specific clinical manifestations. Hemoperitoneum can occur in 17-27% of cases and is a result of tumor rupture, which has a devastating prognosis. We present a 79-year-old female patient with history of diffuse right upper quadrant abdominal pain associated with syncope episodes and unintentional weight loss. Physical examination was unremarkable except for painful palpation of the right upper quadrant. Laboratory exams indicated chronic disease anemia, a 2.7 INR, decreased albumin, increased C-Reactive Protein and GGT, and normal AST, ALT, Alkaline Phosphatase and Bilirubin. Viral hepatitis serologies were negative. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed hepatomegaly and solid liver lesions of heterogeneous echogenicity and imprecise limits. Three-phase abdominal CT showed multiple liver masses of heterogeneous pattern of enhancement suggestive of atypical hemangioma associated with ascites. Chest CT revealed bilateral pulmonary nodules suggestive of metastasis. During hospital stay, the patient developed a massive hemoperitoneum that required emergency laparotomy. In this circumstance, liver and omentum biopsies were performed and the pathology reports ultimately indicated the possibility of hepatic angiosarcoma. The patient developed refractory hemoperitoneum and hemorrhagic shock and ultimately passed away, 48 days after hospital admission. Definitive diagnosis was only available posteriorly, with immunohistochemistry positivity for ERG, CD34 and Factor VIII-related antigen on both omentum and lung samples. This case study provides valuable clinical discussion and emphasizes how a transdisciplinary approach is essential to correctly diagnose and manage such complex cases.
Neurotuberculosis in an immunocompetent patient
Authors: Montenegro Amanda Ximenes Couto Bem , Araujo Emanuele Tavares Sales de , Amaral Jane Cavalcante do , Araújo Mário Henrique Tavares Sales de , Farias Luis Arthur Brasil Gadelha , Lima Rafael Siqueira Athayde
Published: March 2019

Neurotuberculosis is a serious disease, occurring in about 5 to 10% of cases of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. The clinical spectrum varies according to the affected site (meningeal, cerebral parenchyma or spinal cord). Herein we present the case of a 32-year-old male patient with cough and weight loss who presented with hemiparesis and disorientation, receiving a diagnosis of neurotuberculosis using the Xpert MTB / RIF® test. The present case aims to report the clinical and neuroimaging data of an immunocompetent patient with neurotuberculosis.The definitive diagnosis is made by the detection of tuberculosis bacilli in cerebrospinal fluid. The RIF® Xpert MTB test has similar sensitivity and specificity to other diagnostic methods for tuberculosis and the advantage of providing information on resistance to rifampicin. The prognosis depends on the stage and onset of treatment.
Recent records of the Banded Racer Argyrogena fasciolata (Shaw, 1802) (Reptilia: Squamata: Colubridae) from southern Coromandel Coast, peninsular India
Authors: Sagadevan Janani , Ganesh Sumaithangi Rajagopalan , Anandan Nitesh , Rajasingh Raveen
Published: March 2019

We report the Banded Racer Argyrogena fasciolata from the Coromandel Coast in peninsular India, where its occurrence remained doubtful.  This is based on four specimens—two live, uncollected ones from Tambaram and Auroville, respectively, and two preserved specimens from Tuticorin.  The sighting points span a distance of 500 airline km north-south across the eastern coastal plains.  Both juvenile and adults were included in these records, which underscores that breeding populations exist in the regions dealt with.  Our records highlight the need for faunal surveys even in reportedly depauperate or well-studied ecoregions, an element that points out a hidden diversity including species that are not ecologically cryptic.
Leucas sahyadriensis (Lamiaceae: Lamioideae) an overlooked new endemic species from India and notes on Leucas chinensis
Authors: SUNOJKUMAR PURAYIDATHKANDY
Published: March 2019

Wight’s specimen from Peninsular India which Bentham considered as Leucas chinensis is different from Retzius specimen from China. A lectotype for this name is selected from specimens collected by Bladh for Retzius in China. In contrast, Wight’s specimen represents a new species endemic to southern Western Ghats, having long branches, broadly ovate leaves, funnel shaped calyx with a wide mouth and stellately spreading, broadly triangular teeth and the corolla 16–17 mm long. The new species is named Leucas sahyadriensis. Detailed description, illustration, photographs, distribution maps and a table showing its differences from allied species are provided.
Carraroenia ruthae gen. et sp. nov. (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Laophontidae) from maerl substrates of the Irish west coast
Authors: McCORMACK EDWARD
Published: March 2019

Carraroenia ruthae gen. et sp. nov. is described from maerl beds at An Dóilín, Carraroe, County Galway, Ireland. This genus is considered to be closely related to the genus group comprising Psammplatypus, Coullia, Phycolaophonte, Hemilaophonte and Robustunguis, which had been linked based on the reduced P2 endopod and the primitive setation of the male P5 baseoendopod. Carraroenia is regarded as the most primitive genus of this lineage, as evidenced by the 3segmented male P3 endopod, the lack of reduction in the P3–P4 endopods, the retention of the inner seta on P2–P4 exp-2 and the presence of 2 inner setae in P4 enp-2.
Eleven new species of Sericostomatoidea from Madagascar (Trichoptera: Helicopsychidae, Petrothrincidae, Sericostomatidae)
Authors: JOHANSON KJELL ARNE , OLÁH JÁNOS
Published: March 2019

Eleven new Trichoptera species of the superfamily Sericostomatoidea are described from Madagascar. Three species within Helicopsychidae are described as Helicopsyche (Petrotrichia) ambodiva, new species, Helicopsyche (Petrotrichia) sahadika, new species, and Helicopsyche (Petrotrichia) ninakosha, new species; six species within the Petrothrincidae are described as Petrothrincus tsaratananensis, new species, Petrothrincus newidop, new species, Petrothrincus dhritaparam, new species, Petrothrincus pauliani, new species, Petrothrincus andohel, new species, and Petrothrincus andring, new species; and two new species within the Sericostomatidae are described as Cheimacheramus rossi, new species, and Rhoizema mahalevonum, new species. The genus Gyrocarisa Weaver 1997 is synonymized with Petrothrincus Barnard 1934, resulting in the new combinations Petrothrincus steineri (Weaver 1997), new combination, Petrothrincus concava (Weaver 1997), new combination, Petrothrincus acuta (Weaver 1997), new combination, Petrothrincus scottae (Malm & Johanson 2005), new combination, and Petrothrincus weaveri (Malm & Johanson 2005), new combination. A key is presented to males of all Sericostomatoidea species from Madagascar. Distribution maps are given for all new and previously described Madagascar species within the superfamily.
Studies on the Australian Chalcophorini: a new genus for Chalcophora subfasciata Carter, 1916 and a review of the Pseudotaenia Kerremans, 1903 generic-group (Coleoptera: Buprestidae)
Authors: BELLAMY C. L.
Published: March 2019

A new monotypic genus, Austrochalcophora, is proposed for Chalcophora subfasciata Carter, 1916 and a lectotype is designated for that species. Chalcophora frenchi Blackburn, 1891 is transferred to Pseudotaenia Kerremans, 1903, comb. nov. A key to the species and data on the biology and distribution of each species of Pseudotaenia are provided. Pseudotaenia gigantea (Nonfried, 1891) is removed from synonymy under P. waterhousei (Neervoort van de Poll, 1886) and proposed as a new junior subjective synonym of P. gigas (Hope, 1846), syn. nov. Chalcophorotaenia Obenberger, 1928 is resurrected from subgeneric status under Chalcoplia Saunders, 1871. Pseudotaenia cerata (Kerremans, 1891) is transferred to Chalcophorotaenia, comb. nov. All discussed species are presented in dorsal habitus and in situ photographs of four species are presented on two color plates.
Presence of the IndoPacific genus Petrosaspongia Bergquist, 1995 (Porifera: Demospongiae) in the Atlantic with description of a new species (P. pharmamari n. sp.)
Authors: URIZ MARÍA J. , CEBRIAN EMMA
Published: March 2019

One specimen of a keratose sponge not ascribable to any known Atlantic genus was collected by scuba diving from the shallow rocky sublittoral of El Hierro (Canary Islands). The sponge is irregularly massive and very hard in consistency, with a microconulose and unarmoured surface. The skeleton is formed by primary fibres cored with abundant foreign debris and a densely reticulate network of secondary fibres, which are strongly laminated and free of foreign debris. An irregular tertiary network formed by very thin fibres is also visible in some places. The features of the skeleton differ from those of any genus known from the Atlantic Ocean but match those of the genus Petrosaspongia Bergquist described from the Indo-Pacific and represented up to now by the species P. nigra. The Atlantic species, here described as Petrosaspongia pharmamari n. sp., differs from P. nigra by its external colour (dark brown instead of black), its consistency (a little more compressible), the greater width of the primary and secondary fibres, the higher proportion of primary fibres and the smaller diameter of meshes. The finding of a second species confirms the validity of the genus Petrosaspongia. This is the first confirmed record of the genus outside the type locality.
Blattaria of Colombia: List and distribution of genera
Authors: VÉLEZ ANDRÉS , WOLFF MARTA , GUTIÉRREZ ESTEBAN
Published: March 2019

Few scientists have dedicated themselves to the study of Colombia’s cockroach diversity. As a result, there are large gaps in the taxonomic knowledge of Colombian cockroach fauna that make species identification difficult and little information is available on their geographic distribution. Therefore, a taxonomic study of the suborder Blattaria was undertaken by examining the literature and studying specimens available in the country’s main entomological collections. A list of genera with their respective distribution in the various biogeographic regions was obtained. Two thousand, one hundred and forty six adult specimens, distributed in 4 families, 15 subfamilies, and 47 genera were examined and identified. The material examined comes from localities belonging to 31 of the Colombian territory’s 32 departments. Distribution data were obtained for 50 genera in seven biogeographic provinces, mainly in the North Andean and Chocó-Magdalena provinces. Seven genera are presented as new records for Colombia: Buboblatta, Cahita, Cariblatta, Euthlastoblatta, Litopeltis, Macrophyllodromia and Nahublattella. The total number of cockroach genera in Colombia is raised to 61.
The Noctuinae (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, U.S.A.
Authors: POGUE MICHAEL G.
Published: March 2019

Forty-eight species of Noctuinae are recorded from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina, U.S.A., with 17 species in the tribe Agrotini and 31 species in the tribe Noctuini. Images of adults, description/diagnosis, flight period, collected localities, abundance, elevational range, general distribution, and larval hosts are presented for each species. The greatest diversity of Noctuinae species (n=29) was recorded from four combined localities along Big Cove Road, Swain Co., North Carolina.
Two new species of Cilliba von Heyden from Poland, with discussion of the Cilliba cassidea (Hermann) species complex (Acari: Mesostigmata: Uropodina: Cillibidae)
Authors: BŁOSZYK JERZY , STACHOWIAK MARCIN , HALLIDAY BRUCE
Published: March 2019

Two new species of mites are described from Europe on the basis of all developmental stages: Cilliba cassideasimilis sp. nov. and C. rafalskii sp. nov. (Acari: Uropodina: Cillibidae). Both of these species have been misidentified in the past as the closely related species C. cassidea, but these three species can be distinguished using morphological characters. Data on their geographical distribution and some remarks about ecology of both species are presented and discussed. New records of mites of the genus Cilliba are given.
Type species designations and other nomenclatural notes on Palaearctic Melolonthinae and Cetoniinae (Coleoptera: Scarabaeoidea: Scarabaeidae)
Authors: SMETANA ALEŠ , SMITH ANDREW B.T.
Published: March 2019

The nomenclatural status and correct spelling of several genus-group and species-group names of Palaearctic scarab beetles are discussed. Type species are designated for the following genus-group names of Palaearctic Melolonthinae: Brachydema Fairmaire, 1881 (type species Brachydema lamberti Fairmaire, 1884), Microtrichia Brenske, 1900 (type species Phytalus eurystomus Burmeister, 1855), Pseudohoplia Reitter, 1890 (type species Hoplia gabriellina Fairmaire, 1887), and Sparophysa Burmeister, 1855 (type species Pachydema bullata Burmeister, 1855). Type species are designated for the following genus-group names of Palaearctic Cetoniinae: Melanosa Mulsant & Rey, 1871 (type species Cetonia morio Fabricius, 1781), Pachnotosia Reitter, 1891 (type species Cetonia marmorata Fabricius, 1792), Polydomia Thomson, 1880 (type species Macronota cervina Wallace, 1867), Potosia Mulsant & Rey, 1871 (type species Cetonia floricola Herbst, 1790), and Tetragonus Gory & Percheron, 1833 (type species Agestrata dehaani Gory & Percheron, 1833). The following genus-group names were determined to be unavailable: “Microtrogus” Mikšić, 1965, “Paramonotropus” Medvedev, 1951, “Sinoliocola” Alexis & Delpont, 1998. Clarifications are made on the nomenclature and correct spelling of several other genus-group and species-group names.
Review of the genus Cochylidia Obraztsov (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Cochylini) in China
Authors: SUN YINGHUI , LI HOUHUN
Published: March 2019

The species of the genus Cochylidia Obraztsov, 1956 that occur in China are reviewed. Nine species and one subspeciesare treated, including two new species, C. multispinalis Sun & Li, sp. nov., and C. liui Sun & Li, sp. nov., and three speciesnewly recorded for China, C. altivaga Diakonoff, 1976, C. contumescens (Meyrick, 1931), and C. implicitana (Wocke,1856). Cochylidia oblonga Liu & Ge, 1997 is regarded as a nomen nudum, and it is formally described herein as Cochy-lidia oblonga Liu & Ge, sp. nov. Images of adults and genitalia are provided, along with a key to all the known species of the genus.