bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Parameter‐Free Model Comparison Test Using Differential Algebra
Authors: Harrington Heather A. , Ho Kenneth L. , Meshkat Nicolette
Published: February 2019

We present a method for rejecting competing models from noisy time‐course data that does not rely on parameter inference. First we characterize ordinary differential equation models in only measurable variables using differential‐algebra elimination. This procedure gives input‐output equations, which serve as invariants for time series data. We develop a model comparison test using linear algebra and statistics to reject incorrect models from their invariants. This algorithm exploits the dynamic properties that are encoded in the structure of the model equations without recourse to parameter values, and, in this sense, the approach is parameter‐free. We demonstrate this method by discriminating between different models from mathematical biology.
A Model to Predict In-Hospital Mortality in HIV/AIDS Patients with Pneumocystis Pneumonia in China: The Clinical Practice in Real World
Authors: Wu Liang , Zhang Zhe , Wang Yu , Hao Yiwei , Wang Fang , Gao Guiju , Yang Di , Xiao Jiang , Zhao Hongxin
Published: February 2019

We aimed to develop and validate a predictive model to evaluate in-hospital mortality risk in HIV/AIDS patients with PCP in China. 1001 HIV/AIDS patients with PCP admitted in the Beijing Ditan hospital from August 2009 to January 2018 were included in this study. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard model was used to identify independent risk factors of death, and a predictive model was devised based on risk factors. The overall in-hospital mortality was 17.3%. The patients were randomly assigned into derivation cohort (801cases) and validation cohort (200 cases) in 8:2 ratio, respectively, in which in derivation cohort we found that 7 predictors, including LDH >350U/L, HR>130 times/min, room air PaO2 <70mmHg, later admission to ICU, Anemia (HGB≤90g/L), CD4<50cells/ul, and development of a pneumothorax, were associated with poor prognosis in HIV/AIDS patients with PCP and were included in the predictive model. The model had excellent discrimination with AUC of 0.904 and 0.921 in derivation and validation cohort, respectively. The predicted scores were divided into two groups to assess the in-hospital mortality risk: low-risk group (0-11 points with mortality with 2.15-12.77%) and high-risk group (12-21 points with mortality with 38.78%-81.63%). The cumulative mortality rate also indicated significant difference between two groups with Kaplan-Meier curve (p<0.001). A predictive model to evaluate mortality in HIV/AIDS patients with PCP was constructed based on routine laboratory and clinical parameters, which may be a simple tool for physicians to assess the prognosis in HIV/AIDS patients with PCP in China.
A Critical Appraisal of Emergency Medicine Specialty Training and Resignation among Residents in Emergency Medicine in Turkey
Authors: Cetin Murat , Bicakci Sercan , Canakci Mustafa Emin , Aydin Mevlut Okan , Bayram Basak
Published: February 2019

Background and Aim. The nonsatisfaction among emergency medicine specialty trainees is an underrated issue in Turkey. Several previous studies have evaluated the burn-out and its consequences among physicians, but there is no study conducted with specialty trainees. The aim of this study is to evaluate the reasons for resignation among emergency medicine specialty residents in Turkey.Method. A total of 41 participants, who resigned from emergency medicine residency, were contacted by phone and invited to complete an online survey that included 25 questions about personal characteristics and departmental information.Results. Most frequent reasons of resignation were violence/security concerns (63.4%), busy work environment (53.7%), and mobbing (26.8%). Participants who reported that they have resigned due to inadequate training were mostly over 30 years old (p=0.02), continued more than 6 months to EMST (p<0.001), reported that there was no regular rotation program (p=0.003) or access to full-text scientific journals (p=0.045) in their department. All participants thought that there were deficits in the training programs, and none of them declared regret for resigning. Twenty-eight participants (68.2%) continued their specialty training at a different discipline after resignation.Conclusion. Major barriers against a high-quality and sustainable emergency medicine residency are violence in emergency services, mobbing in academic or administrative bodies, and inaccessibility to scientific resources. These obstacles can only be removed by cooperation of multiple institutions in Turkey.
Comparative Assessment of Affinity-Based Techniques for Oriented Antibody Immobilization towards Immunosensor Performance Optimization
Authors: Tsekenis George , Chatzipetrou Marianneza , Massaouti Maria , Zergioti Ioanna
Published: February 2019

Immunosensor sensitivity and stability depend on a number of parameters such as the orientation, the surface density, and the antigen-binding efficiency of antibodies following their immobilization onto functionalized surfaces. A number of techniques have been developed to improve the performance of an immunosensor that targets one or both of the parameters mentioned above. Herein, two widely employed techniques are compared for the first time, which do not require any complex engineering of neither the antibodies nor the surfaces onto which the former get immobilized. To optimize the different surface functionalization protocols and compare their efficiency, a model antibody-antigen system was employed that resembles the complex matrices immunosensors are frequently faced with in real conditions. The obtained results reveal that protein A/G is much more efficient in increasing antibody loading onto the surfaces in comparison to boronate ester chemistry. Despite the fact, therefore, that both contribute towards the orientation-specific immobilization of antibodies and hence enhance their antigen-binding efficiency, it is the increased antibody surface density attained with the use of protein A/G that plays a critical role in achieving maximal antigen recognition.
Genetic Algorithm‐Based Variable Value Control Method for Solving the Ground Target Attacking Weapon‐Target Allocation Problem
Authors: Wang Chao , Fu Guangyuan , Zhang Daqiao , Wang Hongqiao , Zhao Jiufen
Published: February 2019

Key ground targets and ground target attacking weapon types are complex and diverse; thus, the weapon‐target allocation (WTA) problem has long been a great challenge but has not yet been adequately addressed. A timely and reasonable WTA scheme not only helps to seize a fleeting combat opportunity but also optimizes the use of weaponry resources to achieve maximum battlefield benefits at the lowest cost. In this study, we constructed a ground target attacking WTA (GTA‐WTA) model and designed a genetic algorithm‐based variable value control method to address the issue that some intelligent algorithms are too slow in resolving the problem of GTA‐WTA due to the large scale of the problem or are unable to obtain a feasible solution. The proposed method narrows the search space and improves the search efficiency by constraining and controlling the variable value range of the individuals in the initial population and ensures the quality of the solution by improving the mutation strategy to expand the range of variables. The simulation results show that the improved genetic algorithm (GA) can effectively solve the large‐scale GTA‐WTA problem with good performance.
Study of Activity Tracking through Bluetooth Low Energy-Based Network
Authors: Mohsin Nasreen , Payandeh Shahram , Ho Derek , Gelinas Jean Pierre
Published: February 2019

This paper proposes a proof-of-concept, low-cost, and easily deployable Bluetooth low energy- (BLE-) based localization system which actively scans and localizes BLE beacons attached to mobile subjects in a room. Using the received signal strength (RSS) of a BLE signal and the uniqueness of BLE hardware addresses, mobile subjects can be identified and localized within the hospital room. The RSS measurement of the BLE signal from a wearable BLE beacon varies with distance to the wall-anchored BLE scanner. In order to understand and demonstrate the practicality of the relationship between RSS of a BLE beacon and the distance of a beacon from a scanner, the first part of the paper presents the analysis of the experiments conducted in a low-noise and nonreflective environment. Based on the analysis conducted in an ideal environment, the second half of the paper proposes a data-driven localization process for pinpointing the movements of the subject within the experimental room. In order to ensure higher accuracy like fingerprinting techniques and handle the increased number of BLE-anchored scanners like geometric techniques, the proposed algorithm was designed to combine the best aspects of these two techniques for better localization. The paper evaluates the effects of the number of BLE wall-mounted scanners and the number of packets on the performance of the proposed algorithm. The proposed algorithm locates the patient within the room with error less than 1.8 m. It also performs better than other classical approaches used in localization.
Crack Initiation, Propagation, and Failure Characteristics of Jointed Rock or Rock‐Like Specimens: A Review
Authors: Cao Ri-hong , Cao Ping , Lin Hang , Fan Xiang , Zhang Chunyang , Liu Taoying
Published: February 2019

Rock masses are heterogeneous materials containing a large number of discontinuities, and the failure of the natural rock mass is induced by the crack propagation and coalescence of discontinuities, especially for the rock mass around tunnel or underground space. Because the deformation or failure process of jointed rock mass exhibits strongly nonlinear characteristics, it is also very difficult to predict the strength and failure modes of the rock mass. Therefore, it is very necessary to study the failure mechanisms of jointed rock mass under different stress conditions. Apart from the stress condition, the discontinuities geometry also has a significant influence on the mechanical behavior of jointed rock mass. Then, substantial, experimental, and numerical efforts have been devoted to the study of crack initiation, propagation, and coalescence of rock or rock‐like specimens containing different kinds of joints or fissures. The purpose of this review is to discuss the development and the contribution of the experiment test and numerical simulation in failure behavior of jointed rock or rock‐like specimens. Overall, this review can be classified into three parts. It begins by briefly explaining the significance of studying these topics. Afterwards, the experimental and numerical studies on the strength, deformation, and failure characteristics of jointed rock or rock‐like materials are carried out and discussed.
Perchlorate-Reducing Bacteria from Hypersaline Soils of the Colombian Caribbean
Authors: Acevedo-Barrios Rosa , Bertel-Sevilla Angela , Alonso-Molina Jose , Olivero-Verbel Jesus
Published: February 2019

Perchlorate (ClO4−) has several industrial applications and is frequently detected in environmental matrices at relevant concentrations to human health. Currently, perchlorate-degrading bacteria are promising strategies for bioremediation in polluted sites. The aim of this study was to isolate and characterize halophilic bacteria with the potential for perchlorate reduction. Ten bacterial strains were isolated from soils of Galerazamba-Bolivar, Manaure-Guajira, and Salamanca Island-Magdalena, Colombia. Isolates grew at concentrations up to 30% sodium chloride. The isolates tolerated pH variations ranging from 6.5 to 12.0 and perchlorate concentrations up to 10000 mg/L. Perchlorate was degraded by these bacteria on percentages between 25 and 10. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that the strains were phylogenetically related toVibrio,Bacillus,Salinovibrio,Staphylococcus, andNesiotobactergenera. In conclusion, halophilic-isolated bacteria from hypersaline soils of the Colombian Caribbean are promising resources for the bioremediation of perchlorate contamination.
Automated Conversion of Building Information Modeling (BIM) Geometry Data for Window Thermal Performance Simulation
Authors: Kim Changmin , Park Changyoung , Choi Changho , Jang Hyangin
Published: February 2019

A window set is defined as a window where the frame and the glass are combined and is used at the part that comes into contact with the air. As the performance evaluation of window sets has gained significance, the need for software that can simulate window set performance has also increased accordingly. However, the simulation of window sets is not carried out efficiently due to the difficulty in the window set modeling. Meanwhile, the design of building information modeling has recently proliferated so that the window set BIM library is distributed online. If such a window set BIM library is utilized in the window set simulation, it is expected that the productivity issue that occurs in the simulation process could be improved. Therefore, this study proposes a method to automatically convert the information required in the simulation of the window set heat transfer coefficient from the BIM. In order to achieve the purpose of this study, the following procedure is carried out. First, the framework for converting the information required in the simulation of the window set heat transfer coefficient from the BIM is suggested. Second, the method to extract and convert BIM data based on the suggested framework is proposed. Lastly, the BIM data conversion program is developed, and its performance is validated by applying the window set BIM case. The case study result showed that the information converted and entered from the window set data BIM conversion program coincided with the information entered in the window set BIM. It is expected that the result of this study will increase the productivity of window set simulations, which will lead to the increased use of certification through these simulations.
Matrix Metalloproteinase-9-Dependent Release of IL-1βby Human Eosinophils
Authors: Esnault Stephane , Kelly Elizabeth A. , Johnson Sean H. , DeLain Larissa P. , Haedt Madeline J. , Noll Andrea L. , Sandbo Nathan , Jarjour Nizar N.
Published: February 2019

Asthma is often associated with airway eosinophilia, and therapies targeting eosinophils are now available to treat severe eosinophilic asthma. Eosinophilic asthma is often due to a type-2 immune response and production of IL-5, which leads to eosinophilopiesis and recruitment of mature eosinophils in the airways. A concomitant type-2 and type-17 response has been reported in some individuals. IL-17 may be enhanced by IL-1βproduction and can lead to neutrophilic inflammation. In fact, both eosinophilic and neutrophilic (mixed granulocytic) inflammation are simultaneously present in a large population of patients with asthma. In monocyte/macrophage cell populations, release of mature IL-1βoccurs via toll-like receptor ligand-induced activation of the inflammasome. Within the inflammasome, a cascade of events leads to the activation of caspase-1, which cleaves pro-IL-1βprotein into a mature, releasable, and active form. We have demonstrated that eosinophils can release IL-1βin a Toll-like receptor ligand-independent fashion. The objective of this study was to determine the mechanisms underlying the production and maturation of IL-1βin cytokine-activated eosinophils. Using eosinophils from circulating blood and from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid after an airway allergen challenge, the present study demonstrates that cytokine-activated eosinophils express and release a bioactive form of IL-1βwith an apparent size less than the typical 17 kDa mature form produced by macrophages. Using a zymography approach and pharmacological inhibitors, we identified matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) as a protease that cleaves pro-IL-1βinto a ~15 kDa form and allows the release of IL-1βfrom cytokine-activated eosinophils. Therefore, we conclude that activated eosinophils produce MMP-9, which causes the release of IL-1βin an inflammasome/caspase-1-independent manner. The production of IL-1βby eosinophils may be a link between the eosinophilic/type-2 immune response and the neutrophilic/type-17 immune response that is often associated with a more severe and treatment-refractory type of asthma.
Genetic Manipulation of Calcium Release-Activated Calcium Channel 1 Modulates the Multipotency of Human Cartilage-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Liu Shuang , Takahashi Minae , Kiyoi Takeshi , Toyama Kensuke , Mogi Masaki
Published: February 2019

Calcium is a ubiquitous intracellular messenger that has a crucial role in determining the proliferation, differentiation, and functions of multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Our study is aimed at elucidating the influence of genetically manipulating Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channel-mediated intercellular Ca2+ signaling on the multipotency of MSCs. The abilities of genetically engineered MSCs, including CRAC-overexpressing and CRAC-knockout MSCs, to differentiate into multiple mesenchymal lineages, including adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic lineages, were evaluated. CRAC channel-mediated Ca2+ influx into these cells was regulated, and the differentiation fate of MSCs was modified. Upregulation of intracellular Ca2+ signals attenuated the adipogenic differentiation ability and slightly increased the osteogenic differentiation potency of MSCs, whereas downregulation of CRACM1 expression promoted chondrogenic differentiation potency. The findings demonstrated the effects of genetically manipulating MSCs by targeting CRACM1. CRAC-modified MSCs had distinct differentiation fates to adipocytes, osteoblasts, and chondrocytes. To aid in the clinical implementation of tissue engineering strategies for joint regeneration, these data may allow us to identify prospective factors for effective treatments and could maximize the therapeutic potential of MSC-based transplantation.
HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors Attenuate Neuronal Damage by Suppressing Oxygen Glucose Deprivation-Induced Activated Microglial Cells
Authors: Lu Dan , Shen Lingling , Mai Hongcheng , Zang Jiankun , Liu Yanfang , Tsang Chi-kwan , Li Keshen , Xu Anding
Published: February 2019

Ischemic stroke is usually followed by inflammatory responses mediated by microglia. However, the effect of statins on directly preventing posthypoxia microglia inflammatory factors to prevent injury to surrounding healthy neurons is unclear. Atorvastatin and rosuvastatin, which have different physical properties regarding their lipid and water solubility, are the most common HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) and might directly block posthypoxia microglia inflammatory factors to prevent injury to surrounding neurons. Neuronal damage and microglial activation of the peri-infarct areas were investigated by Western blotting and immunofluorescence after 24 hours in a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat model. The decrease in neurons was in accordance with the increase in microglia, which could be reversed by both atorvastatin and rosuvastatin. The effects of statins on blocking secretions from posthypoxia microglia and reducing the secondary damage to surrounding normal neurons were studied in a coculture system in vitro. BV2 microglia were cultured under oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) for 3 hours and then cocultured following reperfusion for 24 hours in the upper wells of transwell plates with primary neurons being cultured in the bottom wells. Inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), which are activated by the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway in OGD-induced BV2 microglia, promoted decreased release of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and apoptosis of neurons in the coculture systems according to ELISA and Western blotting. However, pretreatment with atorvastatin or rosuvastatin significantly reduced neuronal death, synaptic injury, and amyloid-beta (Aβ) accumulation, which might lead to increased low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLRs) in BV2 microglia. We concluded that the proinflammatory mediators released from postischemia damage could cause damage to surrounding normal neurons, while HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors prevented neuronal apoptosis and synaptic injury by inactivating microglia through blocking the NF-κB signaling pathway.
The Level of Serum Albumin Is Associated with Renal Prognosis in Patients with Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Zhang Junlin , Zhang Rui , Wang Yiting , Li Hanyu , Han Qianqian , Wu Yucheng , Wang Tingli , Liu Fang
Published: February 2019

Objective. Although hypoalbuminemia is frequently found in most patients with diabetic nephropathy (DN), its relationship to the severity and progression of DN remains largely unknown. Our aim was to investigate the association between the serum albumin levels and clinicopathological features and renal outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and biopsy-proven DN.Materials and Methods. A total of 188 patients with T2DM and biopsy-proven DN followed up for at least one year were enrolled. The patients were divided into four groups based on the albumin levels: normal group: ≥35 g/L (n=87); mild group: 30-35 g/L (n=34); moderate group: 25-30 g/L (n=36); and severe group: <25 g/L (n=31). The renal outcome was defined by progression to end-stage renal disease. The impact of the serum albumin level on renal survival was estimated using Cox regression analysis.Results. Among the cases, the serum albumin level had a significant correlation with proteinuria, renal function, and glomerular lesions. A multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that the severity of hypoalbuminemia remained significantly associated with an adverse renal outcome, independent of clinical and histopathological features. In reference to the normal group, the risk of progression to ESRD increased such that the hazard ratio (HR) for the mild group was 2.09 (95% CI, 0.67-6.56,p=0.205), 6.20 (95% CI, 1.95-19.76,p=0.002) for the moderate group, and 7.37 (95% CI, 1.24-43.83,p=0.028) for the severe group.Conclusions. These findings suggested that hypoalbuminemia was associated with a poorer renal prognosis in patients with T2DM and DN.
Combination ofLigusticum ChuanxiongandRadix PaeoniaPromotes Angiogenesis in Ischemic Myocardium through Notch Signalling and Mobilization of Stem Cells
Authors: Shi Wei-Li , Zhao Jun , Yuan Rong , Lu Yan , Xin Qi-Qi , Liu Yu , Cong Wei-Hong , Chen Ke-Ji
Published: February 2019

Objective. To study the cardioprotective mechanism by which the combination of Chuanxiong (CX) and Chishao (CS) promotes angiogenesis.Methods. Myocardial infarction (MI) mouse models were induced by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. The effects on cardiac function were evaluated in the perindopril tert-butylamine group (PB group) (3 mg/kg/d), CX group (55 mg/kg/d), CS group (55 mg/kg/d), and CX and CS combination (CX-CS) group (27.5 mg/kg/d CX plus 27.5 mg/kg/d CS). RO4929097, an inhibitor of Notchγsecretase, was used (10 mg/kg/d) to explore the role of Notch signalling in the CX-CS-induced promotion of angiogenesis in the myocardial infarcted border zone (IBZ). The left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and percentage of MI area were evaluated with animal ultrasound and Masson staining. The average optical densities (AODs) of CD31 and vWF in the myocardial IBZ were detected by immunofluorescence. Angiogenesis-related proteins including hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α), fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR-1), Notch1 and Notch intracellular domain (NICD), and stem cell mobilization-related proteins including stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1), C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR-4), and cardiotrophin1 were detected by western blot analysis.Results. Compared with the model group, the CX-CS and PB groups both showed markedly improved LVEF and decreased percentage of MI area after 21 days of treatment. Although the CX group and CS group showed increased LVEF and decreased MI areas compared with the model group, the difference was not significant. The AOD of CD31 in the IBZ in both the model and the CX-CS-I group was markedly reduced compared with that in the sham group. CX-CS significantly increased the CD31 AOD in the IBZ and decreased the AODs of CD31 and vWF in the infarct zone compared with those in the model group. The expression of HIF-1αin both the model group and the CX-CS group was higher than that in the sham group. Compared with the model group, the expression of FGFR-1, SDF-1, cardiotrophin1, Notch1, and NICD was increased in the CX-CS group. Notch1 and NICD expression in the CX-CS-I group was reduced compared with that in the CX-CS group.Conclusions. The combination of CX and CS protected cardiomyocytes in the IBZ better than CX or CS alone. The mechanism by which CX-CS protects ischemic myocardium may be related to the proangiogenesis effect of CX-CS exerted through Notch signalling and the mobilization of stem cells to the IBZ.
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) Aggravates High Glucose- and Hypoxia/Reoxygenation-Induced Injury through Activating ROS-Dependent NLRP3 Inflammasome-Mediated Pyroptosis in H9C2 Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Qiu Zhen , He Yuhong , Ming Hao , Lei Shaoqing , Leng Yan , Xia Zhong-yuan
Published: February 2019

Diabetes aggravates myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury because of the combination effects of changes in glucose and lipid energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and systemic inflammatory response. Studies have indicated that myocardial I/R may coincide and interact with sepsis and inflammation. However, the role of LPS in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury in cardiomyocytes under high glucose conditions is still unclear. Our objective was to examine whether lipopolysaccharide (LPS) could aggravate high glucose- (HG-) and hypoxia/reoxygenation- (H/R-) induced injury by upregulating ROS production to activate NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis in H9C2 cardiomyocytes. H9C2 cardiomyocytes were exposed to HG (30 mM) condition with or without LPS, along with caspase-1 inhibitor (Ac-YVAD-CMK), inflammasome inhibitor (BAY11-7082), ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine (NAC), or not for 24 h, then subjected to 4 h of hypoxia followed by 2 h of reoxygenation (H/R). The cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, caspase-1 activity, and intracellular ROS production were detected by using assay kits. The incidence of pyroptosis was detected by calcein-AM/propidium iodide (PI) double staining kit. The concentrations of IL-1β and IL-18 in the supernatants were assessed by ELISA. The mRNA levels of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1 were detected by qRT-PCR. The protein levels of NF-κB p65, NLRP3, ASC, cleaved caspase-1 (p10), IL-1β, and IL-18 were detected by western blot. The results indicated that pretreatment LPS with 1 μg/ml not 0.1 μg/ml could efficiently aggravate HG and H/R injury by activating NLRP3 inflammasome to mediate pyroptosis in H9C2 cells, as evidenced by increased LDH release and decreased cell viability in the cells, and increased expression of NLRP3, ASC, cleaved caspase-1 (p10), IL-1β, and IL-18. Meanwhile, Ac-YVAD-CMK, BAY11-7082, or NAC attenuated HG- and H/R-induced H9C2 cell injury with LPS stimulated by reversing the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis. In conclusion, LPS could increase the sensitivity of H9C2 cells to HG and H/R and aggravated HG- and H/R-induced H9C2 cell injury by promoting ROS production to induce NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis.
Resolution of Max‐Product Fuzzy Relation Equation with Interval‐Valued Parameter
Authors: Yang Xiaobin , Lin Haitao , Xiao Gang , Xue Huanbin , Yang Xiaopeng
Published: February 2019

Considering the application background on P2P network system, we investigate the max‐product fuzzy relation equation with interval‐valued parameter in this paper. Order relation on the set of all interval‐valued numbers plays key role in the construction and resolution of the interval‐valued‐parameter fuzzy relation equation (IPFRE). The basic operations supremum (a∨b) and infimum (a∧b) in the IPFRE should be defined depending on the order relation. A novel total order is introduced for establishing the IPFRE. We also discuss some properties of the IPFRE system, including the consistency and structure of the complete solution set. Concepts of close index set and open index set are defined, helping us to construct the resolution method of the IPFRE system. We further provide a detailed algorithm for obtaining the complete solution set. Besides, the solution set is compared to that of the classical max‐T fuzzy relation equations system.
Antioxidant Properties of Amazonian Fruits: A Mini Review of In Vivo and In Vitro Studies
Authors: Avila-Sosa Raúl , Montero-Rodríguez Andrés Felipe , Aguilar-Alonso Patricia , Vera-López Obdulia , Lazcano-Hernández Martin , Morales-Medina Julio César , Navarro-Cruz Addí Rhode
Published: February 2019

Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Venezuela, Suriname, Guyana, and French Guiana share an area of 7,295,710 km2 of the Amazon region. It is estimated that the Amazonian forest offers the greatest flora and fauna biodiversity on the planet and on its surface could cohabit 50% of the total existing living species; according to some botanists, it would contain about 16-20% of the species that exist today. This region has native fruit trees in which functional properties are reported as antioxidant and antiproliferative characteristics. Amazon plants offer a great therapeutic potential attributed to the content of bioactive phytochemicals. The aim of this mini review is to examine the state of the art of the main bioactive components of the most studied Amazonian plants. Among the main functional compounds reported were phenolic compounds, unsaturated fatty acids, carotenoids, phytosterols, and tocopherols, with flavonoids and carotenoids being the groups of greatest interest. The main beneficial effect reported has been the antioxidant effect, evaluated in most of the fruits investigated; other reported functional properties were antimicrobial, antimutagenic, antigenotoxic, analgesic, immunomodulatory, anticancer, bronchodilator, antiproliferative, and anti-inflammatory, including hypercholesterolemic effects, leishmanicidal activity, induction of apoptosis, protective action against diabetes, gastroprotective activity, and antidepressant effects.
Quantitative Assessment of Outer Retinal Layer and Photoreceptor Outer Segment Layer and Their Relation to Visual Acuity in Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Abd Elhamid Ahmed Hosni
Published: February 2019

Purpose. To compare outer retinal layer (ORL) thickness and photoreceptor outer segment (PROS) length between normal eyes and eyes with diabetic macular edema (DME), and also, to study the correlation between central macular thicknesses (CMT), ORL, and PROS length with best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in DME. Methods. 80 eyes were included in the study; they were divided into two groups, group Ι (40 normal eyes) and group ΙΙ (40 eyes) with DME. Complete ophthalmic examination and OCT were done for all eyes. Comparison between ORL and PROS was done between both groups; also, correlation between ORL thickness, PROS length, and CMT with BCVA in group ΙΙ was studied. Results. CMT was greater in group ΙΙ than group Ι (392.70 ± 62.91 and 265.73 ± 17.17, respectively) (SS, p<0.001). ORL thickness was statistically significantly greater in group Ι than group ΙΙ (104.80 ± 4.94, 93.68 ± 6.34, p<0.001). Regarding PROS length, it was statistically significantly greater in group Ι than group ΙΙ (31.38 ± 3.4 and 26.65 ± 3.39, respectively, p<0.001). There was moderate correlation between BCVA and ORL thickness (r = −0.440, p=0.004) and strong correlation between BCVA and PROS length in group ΙΙ (r = − 0.690, p<0.001), while there was weak correlation between BCVA and CMT (r = 0.198, p=0.220). Conclusion. Both ORL thickness and PROS length were greater in healthy normal eyes than eyes with DME. BCVA was correlated better with PROS length and ORL thickness than CMT.
Immunoregulatory Effect of Koumine on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Rats
Authors: Yue Rongcai , Jin Guilin , Wei Shanshan , Huang Huihui , Su Li , Zhang Chenxi , Xu Ying , Yang Jian , Liu Ming , Chu Zhiyong , Yu Changxi
Published: February 2019

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common and important chronic liver disease all over the world. In the present study, we found that koumine, the main and active ingredient isolated from Gelsemium elegans, has the potential therapeutic effect on NAFLD rats by immunomodulatory activity. Koumine could significantly reduce the level of TG, TC, LDL-C, ALT, and AST in the serum of NAFLD rats and increase the level of HDL-C, reduce the liver index, and improve the adipose-like lesions of liver cells in NAFLD rats. Furthermore, treatment with koumine inhibited the severity of NAFLD. In addition, koumine-treated rats significantly increased the proportion of CD4+/CD8+ T cells and also decreased the percentages of Th1 and Th17 cells and increased Th2 and Treg cells in the liver. Moreover, koumine reduced the production and mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines in vivo. This result showed that koumine could effectively modulate different subtypes of helper T cells and prevent NAFLD. The present study revealed the novel immunomodulatory activity of koumine and highlighted the importance to further investigate the effects of koumine on hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome.
A Case of Adult T-Cell Leukemia/Lymphoma Complicated with Bilateral Chylothorax
Authors: Kako Satoko , Joshita Satoru , Matsuo Akemi , Kawaguchi Kenji , Umemura Takeji , Tanaka Eiji
Published: February 2019

We present the case of a 74-year-old Japanese woman who presented with dyspnea, a palpable right breast mass, and swollen right axillary lymph node. Imaging studies revealed bilateral pleural effusion and systemic lymph adenopathy and pleural fluid study showed high levels of triglycerides. A right inguinal lymph node biopsy disclosed malignant lymphoma cells that were human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) provirus DNA-positive, a condition endemic to patient’s birthplace, by the Southern blot hybridization method. She was diagnosed as having adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) with chylothorax. After commencing chemotherapy for ATL, her chylothorax disappeared and swollen lymph nodes reduced remarkably, indicating an association between the chylothorax and ATL. Bilateral chylothorax is a relatively rare condition associated with such nontraumatic causes as ATL. Clinicians should therefore bear chylothorax in mind when encountering patients with pleural effusion. A detailed medical history can also enable prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Host Mesh Fitting of a Generic Musculoskeletal Model of the Lower Limbs to Subject-Specific Body Surface Data: A Validation Study
Authors: Oberhofer Katja , Lorenzetti Silvio , Mithraratne Kumar
Published: February 2019

Challenges remain in accurately capturing the musculoskeletal geometry of individual subjects for clinical and biomechanical gait analysis. The aim of this study was to use and validate the Host Mesh Fitting (HMF) technique for fitting a generic anatomically based musculoskeletal model to 3D body surface data of individual subjects. The HMF technique is based on the free-form idea of deforming geometrically complex structures according to the deformation of a surrounding volumetric mesh. Using the HMF technique, an anatomically based model of the lower limbs of an adult female subject (29 years) was customized to subject-specific skin surface data of five typically developing children (mean age 10.2 years) and six children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) (mean age 9.6 years). The fitted lengths and volumes of six muscle-tendon structures were compared against measures from Magnetic Resonance (MR) images for validation purposes. The HMF technique resulted in accurate approximations of the lower limb shapes of all subjects in both study groups. The average error between the MR data and the fitted muscle-tendon lengths from HMF was 4±4% in children without CP and 7±5% in children with CP, respectively. The average error between the MR data and the fitted muscle volumes from HMF was 28±19% in children without CP and 27±28% in children with CP, respectively. This study presents a crucial step towards personalized musculoskeletal modelling for gait analysis by demonstrating the feasibility of fitting a generic anatomically based lower limb model to 3D body surface data of children with and without CP using the HMF technique. Additional improvements in the quality of fit are expected to be gained by developing age-matched generic models for different study groups, accounting for subject-specific variations in subcutaneous body fat, as well as considering supplementary data from ultrasound imaging to better capture physiological muscle tissue properties.
Modulation of Hippocampal Antioxidant Defense System in Chronically Stressed Rats by Lithium
Authors: Popović Nataša , Stojiljković Vesna , Pejić Snežana , Todorović Ana , Pavlović Ivan , Gavrilović Ljubica , Pajović Snežana B.
Published: February 2019

This study examined the effects of lithium on gene expression and activity of the antioxidant enzymes copper zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1), manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GR) in the hippocampus of chronically stressed rats. In addition, we examined the effects of lithium on anxiety behaviors, hippocampal concentrations of dopamine (DA) and malondialdehyde (MDA), protein levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), dopamine transporter (DAT), and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), as well as activity of monoamine oxidase (MAO) in chronically stressed rats. The investigated parameters were quantified by real-time RT-PCR, Western blot analyses, and assays of enzyme activities. We found that lithium did not change gene expression of SOD1, CAT, GPx, and GR but decreased gene expression of SOD2 in chronically stressed rats. A very important result in this study was that lithium treatment decreased the enzyme activities of SOD1 and SOD2 but increased the enzyme activities of GPx and GR in stress condition, which indicates the control of redox balance. The reduced concentration of MDA confirms this. In addition, we found that lithium treatment decreased high protein levels of BDNF and DAT in chronically stressed rats to the level found in unstressed animals. Also, lithium treatment increased the expression of TH but decreased the enzyme activity of MAO B, which contributed to the increase of hippocampal concentration of DA in chronically stressed rats to the level of unstressed animals. Finally, lithium treatment in animals exposed to chronic stress increased the time spent in open arms. Lithium-induced modulation of hippocampal antioxidant status and attenuation of oxidative stress stabilized behavior in animals with high anxiety index. In addition, reduced oxidative stress was followed by the changes of both turnover of DA and levels of BDNF protein in chronically stressed rats treated with lithium. These findings may be important in preclinical research of the effects of lithium on oxidative stress level in pathological conditions.
Gastroprotective Effects of Plants Extracts on Gastric Mucosal Injury in Experimental Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Park Jung Uoon , Kang Ji Hoon , Rahman Md Aziz Abdur , Hussain Ahtesham , Cho Jin Sook , Lee Young Ik
Published: February 2019

Rubus crataegifolius (black raspberry, RF), Ulmus macrocarpa (elm, UL), and Gardenia jasminoides (cape jasmine, GJ) are well known for hundreds of years as folk medicines in China and Korea to treat various gastrointestinal disturbance. The present study evaluated the gastroprotective effects of these plants either single or in combination against HCl/EtOH-induced gastritis and indomethacin-induced ulcer in rat model. Stomach ulcer was induced by oral ingestions of HCl/EtOH or indomethacin. Treatment with RF, UL, and GJ separately or in combination was done 1 h before ulcer induction. On HCl/EtOH-induced gastritis RF, UL, and GJ at a dose of 150 mg/kg showed comparable antigastritis effect (less than 50% inhibition) with lesion index of 94.97±8.05, 108.48±11.51, and 79.10±9.77 mm compared to cimetidine (45.33±23.73 mm). However, the combination of RF, UL, and GJ at a dose of 150 mg/kg with a ratio of 50:50:50 showed remarkable antigastritis effect with 77% inhibition. The observed lesion index at a ratio of 50:50:50 was 23.34±9.11 mm similar to cimetidine (18.88±19.88 mm). On indomethacin-induced ulcer, RF and GJ showed 38.28% and 51.8% inhibition whereas UL showed around 17.73% inhibition at 150 mg/kg. Combination of RF, UL, and GJ at 150 mg/kg showed strong antigastritis effect with 83.71% inhibition. These findings suggest strong gastroprotective effect of combined extract. In addition, these plants showed significant antioxidant activity in DPPH scavenging assay and antilipid peroxidation activity. Combination of black raspberry, elm, and cape jasmine might be a significant systemic gastroprotective agent that could be utilized for the treatment and/or protection of gastritis and gastric ulcer.
A New Approach for the Diagnosis of Systemic and Oral Diseases Based on Salivary Biomolecules
Authors: Roi Alexandra , Rusu Laura C. , Roi Ciprian I. , Luca Ruxandra E. , Boia Simina , Munteanu Roxana I.
Published: February 2019

Early diagnosis represents the target of contemporary medicine and has an important role in the prognosis and further treatment. Saliva is a biofluid that generated a high interest among researchers due to its multiple advantages over other body fluids. The multitude of components that can act as biomarkers influenced the existing technologies to develop protocols that could allow saliva to become the new noninvasive diagnostic method. Saliva as a diagnostic tool can bring substantial addition to the diagnostic armamentarium, providing important information about oral and general health. The diagnostic applications of saliva extended and had a rapid evolution due to the advancement in salivaomics. The present review summarizes the latest researches in saliva-related studies and explores the information and correlations that saliva can offer regarding the systemic and oral diseases, highlighting its great potential of diagnosis. It is expected that in the future specific guidelines and results regarding the salivary diagnostics are to be available, together with high-sensitivity and specificity tests for multiple systemic and oral diseases.
Pulmonary Artery Sling Presenting as Pneumonia and Inhalation of a Foreign Body
Authors: Luo Shujuan , Rao Huaping
Published: February 2019

Pulmonary artery sling is a rare cause of respiratory distress created by compression of the lower trachea and right mainstem bronchus due to an aberrant origin of the left pulmonary artery. The condition is frequently associated with recurrent respiratory infections and other congenital malformations including tracheal rings. We present the case of an infant presenting with pulmonary distress and a history of recurrent respiratory infection. The infant underwent surgery to remove a foreign object; however, the symptoms did not resolve. Bronchoscopy revealed bronchus stenosis, and subsequent echocardiogram and CT scans revealed the presence of a pulmonary artery sling. We prescribed infection prophylaxis with the immunomodulator OM-85 to mitigate the risk of further infections prior to surgery. PAS and bronchus stenosis were corrected successfully by surgical intervention leading to resolution of symptoms of respiratory distress and a reduction in the incidence of respiratory infection.
Fenofibrate Improved Interstitial Fibrosis of Renal Allograft through Inhibited Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Induced by Oxidative Stress
Authors: Wang Yishu , Pang Lei , Zhang Yanghe , Lin Jiahui , Zhou Honglan
Published: February 2019

The best treatment for end-stage renal disease is renal transplantation. However, it is often difficult to maintain a renal allograft healthy for a long time following transplantation. Interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IF/TA) are significant histopathologic characteristics of a compromised renal allograft. There is no effective therapy to improve renal allograft function once IF/TA sets in. Although there are many underlying factors that can induce IF/TA, the pathogenesis of IF/TA has not been fully elucidated. It has been found that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) significantly contributes to the development of IF/TA. Oxidative stress is one of the main causes that induce EMT in renal allografts. In this study, we have used H2O2 to induce oxidative stress in renal tubular epithelial cells (NRK-52e) of rats. We also pretreated NRK-52e cells with an antioxidant (N-acetyl L-cysteine (NAC)) 1 h prior to the treatment with H2O2. Furthermore, we used fenofibrate (a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α agonist) to treat NRK-52e cells and a renal transplant rat model. Our results reveal that oxidative stress induces EMT in NRK-52e cells, and pretreatment with NAC can suppress EMT in these cells. Moreover, fenofibrate suppresses fibrosis by ameliorating oxidative stress-induced EMT in a rat model. Thus, fenofibrate may effectively prevent the development of fibrosis in renal allograft and improve the outcome.
Chronic Kidney Disease and Pulse Wave Velocity: A Narrative Review
Authors: Lioufas Nicole , Hawley Carmel M. , Cameron James D. , Toussaint Nigel D.
Published: February 2019

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with excess cardiovascular mortality, resulting from both traditional and nontraditional, CKD-specific, cardiovascular risk factors. Nontraditional risk factors include the entity Chronic Kidney Disease–Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD) which is characterised by disorders of bone and mineral metabolism, including biochemical abnormalities of hyperphosphatemia and hyperparathyroidism, renal osteodystrophy, and vascular calcification. Increased arterial stiffness in the CKD population can be attributed amongst other influences to progression of vascular calcification, with significant resultant contribution to the cardiovascular disease burden. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) measured over the carotid-femoral arterial segments is the noninvasive gold-standard technique for measurement of aortic stiffness and has been suggested as a surrogate cardiovascular end-point. A PWV value of 10 m/s or greater has been recommended as a suitable cut-off for an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality. CKD is a risk factor for an excessive rate of increase in aortic stiffness, reflected by increases in PWV, and increased aortic PWV in CKD shows faster progression than for individuals with normal kidney function. Patients with varying stages of CKD, as well as those on dialysis or with a kidney transplant, have different biological milieu which influence aortic stiffness and associated changes in PWV. This review discusses the pathophysiology of arterial stiffness with CKD and outlines the literature on PWV across the spectrum of CKD, highlighting that determination of arterial stiffness using aortic PWV can be a useful diagnostic and prognostic tool for assessing cardiovascular disease in the CKD population.