bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pooled Analysis of the Efficacy and Safety of Video Capsule Endoscopy in Patients with Implantable Cardiac Devices
Authors: Tabet Rabih , Nassani Najib , Karam Boutros , Shammaa Youssef , Akhrass Philippe , Deeb Liliane
Published: May 2019

Background. To date, video capsule endoscopy (VCE) is still contraindicated by the FDA and the main manufacturers of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices (CIED) in patients with CIED, given a theoretical electromagnetic interference and possible device malfunction. Objectives. The objective of this study was to assess the safety profile and efficacy of VCE in patients with implantable cardiac devices through analyzing the risk of mutual interference. Methods. A systematic review of PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases was conducted. Peer-reviewed original articles, published in the English language and containing “capsule endoscopy” AND “pacemaker”, “defibrillator” OR “left ventricular assist device” as keywords, were selected. Studies performed in vitro, isolated case reports, and abstracts/posters were excluded. Results. A total of 735 VCE procedures were performed in patients with cardiac devices in various clinical settings. Cardiac events were not seen in any case. Interference on capsule images transmission was noted in 5 cases (left ventricular assist device (LVAD)) where few images were lost when the capsule was closest to the device. Finally, interference between capsule and telemetry leads was noted in 6 cases (4 Permanent Pacemakers (PPM), 2 Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD)) leading to image artifacts. Discussion. Adverse cardiac events were not seen in any study. Loss of images occurred when the VCE was in proximity to the device (only with LVAD) or after telemetry leads installation without affecting the completion rate and diagnostic yield of VCE. Conclusion. VCE is safe and remains efficient in patients with cardiac devices. If cardiac monitoring is required, wired systems are preferable.
Novel Energy-Efficient Data Gathering Scheme Exploiting Spatial-Temporal Correlation for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhou Ying , Yang Lihua , Yang Longxiang , Ni Meng
Published: May 2019

A novel energy-efficient data gathering scheme that exploits spatial-temporal correlation is proposed for clustered wireless sensor networks in this paper. In the proposed method, dual prediction is used in the intracluster transmission to reduce the temporal redundancy, and hybrid compressed sensing is employed in the intercluster transmission to reduce the spatial redundancy. Moreover, an error threshold selection scheme is presented for the prediction model by optimizing the relationship between the energy consumption and the recovery accuracy, which makes the proposed method well suitable for different application environments. In addition, the transmission energy consumption is derived to verify the efficiency of the proposed method. Simulation results show that the proposed method has higher energy efficiency compared with the existing schemes, and the sink can recover measurements with reasonable accuracy by using the proposed method.
Impaired Mitochondrial Fusion and Oxidative Phosphorylation Triggered by High Glucose Is Mediated by Tom22 in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Zeng Yi , Pan Qi , Wang Xiaoxia , Li Dongxiao , Lin Yajun , Man Fuli , Xiao Fei , Guo Lixin
Published: May 2019

Much evidence demonstrates that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of vascular complications of diabetes. However, the signaling pathways through which hyperglycemia leads to mitochondrial dysfunction of endothelial cells are not fully understood. Here, we treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with high glucose and examined the role of translocase of mitochondrial outer membrane (Tom) 22 on mitochondrial dynamics and cellular function. Impaired Tom22 expression and protein expression of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) as well as decreased mitochondrial fusion were observed in HUVECs treated with high glucose. The deletion of Tom22 resulted in reduced mitochondrial fusion and ATP production and increased apoptosis in HUVECs. The overexpression of Tom22 restored the balance of mitochondrial dynamics and OXPHOS disrupted by high glucose. Importantly, we found that Tom22 modulates mitochondrial dynamics and OXPHOS by interacting with mitofusin (Mfn) 1. Taken together, our findings demonstrate for the first time that Tom22 is a novel regulator of both mitochondrial dynamics and bioenergetic function and contributes to cell survival following high-glucose exposure.
Inhibition of Prostate Cancer Cells by 4,5-Dicaffeoylquinic Acid through Cell Cycle Arrest
Authors: Lodise Olivia , Patil Ketki , Karshenboym Igor , Prombo Scott , Chukwueke Chidinma , Pai S. Balakrishna
Published: May 2019

Prostate cancer is a major cause of cancer-related mortality in men. Even though current therapeutic management has contributed to reducing mortality, additional intervention strategies are warranted to further improve the outcomes. To this end, we have investigated the efficacy of dicaffeoylquinic acids, ingredients in Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis), an evergreen cultivated in South America, the leaves of which are used to prepare a tea/coffee-like drink. Of the various analogs tested, 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (4,5-diCQA) was the most active molecule against DU-145 prostate cancer cells with a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 5 μM. 4,5-diCQA was active both under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. The effect of 72-hour treatment on DU-145 cells persisted for an extended time period as assessed by clonogenic assay. Mechanistic studies revealed that the toxic effect was not due to induction of programmed cell death but through cell cycle arrest at S phase. Additionally, 4,5-diCQA did not impact PI3K/MAPK signaling pathway nor did it affect the depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane. 4,5-diCQA-induced accumulation of cells in the S-phase also seems to negatively impact Bcl-2 expression. 4,5-diCQA also exhibited inhibitory activity on LNCaP and PC-3 prostate cancer cells suggesting that it has therapeutic potential on a broad range of prostate cancers. Taken together, the novel inhibitory activity and mechanism of action of 4,5-diCQA opens up potential therapeutic options for using this molecule as monotherapy as well as in combinatorial therapies for the clinical management of prostate cancer.
PreliminaryIn VitroEvaluation of the Probiotic Potential of the Bacteriocinogenic StrainEnterococcus lactisPMD74 Isolated from Ezine Cheese
Authors: Uymaz Tezel Başar
Published: May 2019

Ezine cheese is a nonstarter and long-ripened cheese produced in the Mount of Ida region of Çanakkale, Turkey, with a protected designation of origin (PDO) status. The nonstarter fermented foods serve as sources for the isolation of novel strains. The present study aimed to report the novelty of the bacteriocinogenicEnterococcus lactisPMD74 strain and thein vitroassessment of its potential as a probiotic candidate. Additionally, the present study aimed to describe the technological and safety-related properties of the aforementioned strain. The strain exhibited high viability at pH 3.0, in the presence of pepsin, pancreatin, and bile salts (0.3% and 0.5%), and considerable survival passage through the stimulated digestion tests. The strain PMD74 exhibited substantial autoaggregative (41%) and coaggregative properties, which increased as a function of time. The highest coaggregation percentage was obtained withSalmonella entericaserotype Typhimurium SL1344 (23%), followed byStaphylococcus aureusATCC 6538 (10.3%) andEscherichia coliATCC 26922 (7.4%), respectively. The strain PMD74 was able to inhibit the growth of a number of Gram-positive bacteria, includingListeria monocytogenes,Lactobacillus sake,Staphylococcus aureus, andE. faecalis. The antimicrobial activity of the proteinaceous compound was calculated as 6400 AU·mL−1by the critical dilution method againstE. faecalisATTC 29212.γ-Hemolytic PMD74 was observed to be sensitive to vancomycin, ampicillin, penicillin, gentamicin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, and tylosin. Among the four genes tested,E. lactisPMD74 was observed to be positive for three virulence determinants,ace,sprE, andgelE, and negative foresp. The amino acid decarboxylase activities were detected negative for histidine, tyrosine, and ornithine.E. lactisPMD74 was classified as a low acidifier, which suggested its possible role as an adjunct culture.E. lactisPMD74 exhibited considerable survival ability (8.86 log CFU·mL−1) in the acidic condition of fermented milk for a four-week-long storage period.
Diagnostic Accuracy of the Xpert MTB/RIF Assay for Lymph Node Tuberculosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yu Guocan , Zhong Fangming , Ye Bo , Xu Xudong , Chen Da , Shen Yanqin
Published: May 2019

Objectives. To evaluate the performance of Xpert MTB/RIF for lymph node tuberculosis (LNTB). Methods. We searched databases for published reports. We reviewed the studies and identified the performance of Xpert MTB/RIF with respect to a composite reference standard (CRS) and culture. We used a bivariate random-effects model to perform meta-analyses and used metaregression to analyze sources of heterogeneity. Results. 15 independent studies compared Xpert MTB/RIF with CRS while 21 comparing it with culture were included. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of Xpert MTB/RIF were 79% and 98% compared to that of CRS, respectively, and 84% and 91% compared to that of culture, respectively. The pooled sensitivity and specificity using fine needle aspiration (FNA) samples versus CRS were 80% and 96%, whereas those against culture were 90% and 89%, respectively. The percentages while working with tissue samples versus CRS were 76% and 100%, respectively, whereas those against culture were 76% and 92%, respectively. There was no significant difference in diagnostic efficiency among the types of specimen. Conclusions. Xpert MTB/RIF demonstrates good diagnostic efficiency for LNTB and is not related to the type of specimen, obtained via different routes.
The Activity of the Yaziba Fault on the Lower Reaches of the Jinsha River, Southwestern China: Indirect Evidence from Paleo Earthquakes and Ancient Landslides
Authors: Cui Yulong , Deng Jianhui , Xu Chong
Published: May 2019

In this paper, in order to confirm the strong activity of the Yaziba Fault and provide information needed for disaster prevention and mitigation and safety of the reservoir, we use field investigations and remote sensing interpretations to obtain the geometry of the Yaziba Fault and the distribution of the associated nearby landslides. Several new events are dated, and the paleo earthquake events in the fault area and their time intervals are analyzed along with previously dated events. Then, a typical landslide case is analyzed, and its instability is determined using the limit equilibrium method. The main results of our study are as follows: (1) the Yaziba Fault extends for 20 km; (2) 164 landslides have occurred in the fault area, the LND reached 0.1 km−2, and the LAP reached 0.07 for the entire research area, and the LND and LAP gradually decrease with increasing distance from the Yaziba Fault; (3) 39 dating dates are obtained and 19 paleo earthquakes are concluded, from which the time interval of earthquakes shortened from 147,000 to 3800 years ago is found; and (4) the Daomakan landslide had a 0.6 g horizontal seismic acceleration, which indicates that it was an earthquake landslide. This comprehensive method combined the geometric characteristics of the fault, paleo earthquake data, the regional landslide distribution, and the geotechnical engineering analysis of typical landslides in the area to indirectly determine the fault’s activity and provide a reference for the study of fault activity in mountainous areas.
Exploring Vibration Transmission Rule of an Artificial Spider Web for Potential Application in Invulnerability of Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Wang Jun , Du Zhuangzhuang , He Zhitao , Wang Jiajia
Published: May 2019

Significant similarities exist between a spider web and wireless sensor network in terms of topology. Combining the unique advantages of the spider web in nature, such as invulnerability and robustness, with communication technology of a wireless sensor network presents high research value and broad development prospects. In this paper, a sort of a spiral artificial spider web based on 3D printing and its associated vibration testing device is proposed, which is used to study the transmission rule of vibration information of the spider web under given excitation conditions. It provides useful inspiration for establishment of an invulnerable communication rule of wireless sensor network. In order to investigate vibration transmission characteristics of the artificial spider web, vibration images are recorded and analyzed by a high-speed photography system, and vibration intensity is characterized by use of peak-to-peak value. Furthermore, vibration performance of the artificial spider web is studied under conditions of integrity and destruction, respectively. Our test observation reveals the vibration transmission rule of the unique structure of the spider web, providing a novel analysis method for improving invulnerability of the wireless sensor network.
Effects of Marinating Breast Muscles of Slaughter Pheasants with Acid Whey, Buttermilk, and Lemon Juice on Quality Parameters and Product Safety
Authors: Augustyńska-Prejsnar Anna , Ormian Małgorzata , Hanus Paweł , Kluz Maciej , Sokołowicz Zofia , Rudy Mariusz
Published: May 2019

Along with the growth of the group of consumers paying attention to the relationship between diet and health, there is a trend of interest in natural products and the possibility of their use in meat processing. Raw material used for the study was the breast muscles of pheasants (Phasianus colchicus), which were marinated for 24 hours with acid whey, buttermilk, and lemon juice. Physical parameters (marinade absorption, pH, WHC, colour, shear force, texture profile analysis (TPA), and thermal losses) and microbiological parameters (the number of mesophilic aerobic bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas spp., and lactic acid bacteria) of the nonmarinated and marinated muscles (raw and roasted) were evaluated, and sensory analysis was made. The studies have shown that whey and buttermilk can be used as a natural marinade for marinating pheasant meat, as it ensures microbiological safety of the product and has a positive effect on tenderness (measured by shear force) and chewiness. In the sensory evaluation, it improves the juiciness and tenderness of the roast product and has obtained general acceptability.
A Bezoar Composed of Bilirubin Calcium, Calcium Carbonate, and Fatty Acid Calcium
Authors: Iwamuro Masaya , Urata Haruo , Hirata Shoichiro , Ueki Toru , Hanabata Tetsuro , Takeda Sho , Teraoka Akira , Okada Hiroyuki
Published: May 2019

A 68-year-old Japanese man was diagnosed with bezoar in the stomach, which was endoscopically retrieved. The bezoar was composed of bilirubin calcium, calcium carbonate, and fatty acid calcium. Due to the presence of bilirubin calcium in the bezoar, we performed imaging studies of the bile duct; gallstones and common bile duct stones were identified. Although bezoar with components similar to bile is infrequently encountered, our findings suggest that a bezoar originating from bile should be considered among the differential diagnoses in patients without a recent consumption history of persimmons who demonstrate a mass in the digestive tract. This case highlights the importance of component analysis of gastric bezoars because its findings may alter the treatment plan.
Redesign, Field-Testing, and Validation of the Physical Activity Campus Environmental Supports (PACES) Audit
Authors: Horacek Tanya M. , Yildirim Elif Dede , Seidman Dean , Byrd-Bredbenner Carol , Colby Sarah , White Adrienne A. , Shelnutt Karla P. , Olfert Melissa D. , Mathews Anne E. , Riggsbee Kristin , Franzen-Castle Lisa , Morrell Jesse Stabile , Kattelmann Kendra
Published: May 2019

This paper describes the redesign, field-testing, and convergent validity of a practical tool—Physical Activity Campus Environmental Supports (PACES) audit. Methods. The audit includes two parts: (1) PACES-Programs, which is comprised of questions regarding populations served, fees, programs (recreation/fitness classes and intramurals), proximity, adequacy of facilities, and marketing, and (2) PACES-Facilities, which is comprised of questions regarding built environment (aesthetics, bike racks, stairs, and universal design), recreation equipment, staff, amenities, and access. Each item criterion is specifically scored using a five-point, semantic-differential scale ranging from limited to extensive environmental support. A few questions utilize select all that apply for a summed score. PACES training, interrater reliability, and data collection are all accessible via an online portal. PACES was tested on 76 college campuses. Convergent validity was examined by comparing the PACES-Programs questions to Healthy Campus Initiatives-Programs questions (HCI-Programs) and comparing the PACES-Facilities questions to questions contained in the Physical Activity Resource Assessment (PARA) Instrument. Statistical analyses included Cronbach’s alpha, ANOVA, latent profile analysis, and Spearman correlations. Results. The PACES-Programs audit includes 10 items for a potential total of 73 points (α = 0.72) and PACES-Facilities audit includes 15 items for a potential total of 77 points (α = 0.837). Most (77.8%) of the 153 facilities assessed scored in the most healthful range (20–42), which was mainly due to the extensiveness of the aerobic equipment/amenities and the competence/accessibility of staff. Significant differences in PACES-Total and PACES-Programs scores were associated with campus size and PACES-Facilities across regions. For the paired validation assessments, correlations were significant between PACES-Programs and HCI-Programs ((n=41) r=0.498, p<0.001) and PACES-Facilities and PARA (n=29) for both features (r=0.417, p=0.024) and amenities (r=0.612, p<0.001), indicating moderate convergent validity. Conclusion. The PACES audit is a valid, reliable tool for assessing the quality of recreation facilities and programs in a variety of college campus environments.
Optimal Proxy Selection for Socioeconomic Status Inference on Twitter
Authors: Levy Abitbol Jacob , Fleury Eric , Karsai Márton
Published: May 2019

Individual socioeconomic status inference from online traces is a remarkably difficult task. While current methods commonly train predictive models on incomplete data by appending socioeconomic information of residential areas or professional occupation profiles, little attention has been paid to how well this information serves as a proxy for the individual demographic trait of interest when fed to a learning model. Here we address this question by proposing three different data collection and combination methods to first estimate and, in turn, infer the socioeconomic status of French Twitter users from their online semantics. We assess the validity of each proxy measure by analyzing the performance of our prediction pipeline when trained on these datasets. Despite having to rely on different user sets, we find that training our model on professional occupation provides better predictive performance than open census data or remote sensed expert annotation of habitual environments. Furthermore, we release the tools we developed in the hope it will provide a generalizable framework to estimate socioeconomic status of large numbers of Twitter users as well as contribute to the scientific discussion on social stratification and inequalities.
Focused Ultrasound Effects on Osteosarcoma Cell Lines
Authors: Agnese Valentina , Costa Viviana , Scoarughi Gian Luca , Corso Cristiano , Carina Valeria , De Luca Angela , Bellavia Daniele , Raimondi Lavinia , Pagani Stefania , Midiri Massimo , Stassi Giorgio , Alessandro Riccardo , Fini Milena , Barbato Gaetano , Giavaresi Gianluca
Published: May 2019

MRI guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) has shown to be effective therapeutic modality for non-invasive clinical interventions in ablating of uterine fibroids, in bone metastasis palliative treatments, and in breast, liver, and prostate cancer ablation. MRgFUS combines high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) with MRI images for treatment planning and real time thermometry monitoring, thus enabling non-invasive ablation of tumor tissue. Although in the literature there are several studies on the Ultrasound (US) effects on cell in culture, there is no systematic evidence of the biological effect of Magnetic Resonance guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (MRgFUS) treatment on osteosarcoma cells, especially in lower dose regions, where tissues receive sub-lethal acoustic power. The effect of MRgFUS treatment at different levels of acoustic intensity (15.5-49 W/cm2) was investigated on Mg-63 and Saos-2 cell lines to evaluate the impact of the dissipation of acoustic energy delivered outside the focal area, in terms of cell viability and osteogenic differentiation at 24 h, 7 days, and 14 days after treatment. Results suggested that the attenuation of FUS acoustic intensities from the focal area (higher intensities) to the “far field” (lower intensities) zones might determine different osteosarcoma cell responses, which range from decrease of cell proliferation rates (from 49 W/cm2to 38.9 W/cm2) to the selection of a subpopulation of heterogeneous and immature living cells (from 31.1 W/cm2to 15.5 W/cm2), which can clearly preserve bone tumor cells.
Detarium microcarpum, Guiera senegalensis, and Cassia siameaInduce Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest and Inhibit Metastasis on MCF7 Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Adebayo Ismail Abiola , Gagman Haladu Ali , Balogun Wasiu Gbolahan , Adam Mowaffaq Adam Ahmed , Abas Rafedah , Hakeem Khalid Rehman , Nik Him Nik Ahmad Irwan Izzauddin Bin , Samian Muhammad Razip Bin , Arsad Hasni
Published: May 2019

Despite the availability of anticancer drugs, breast cancer remains the most death-causing tumor-related disease in women. Hence, there is a need for discovery and development of efficient alternative drugs, and sources such as plants need to be explored. In this study, antioxidant capacities and inhibitory effects against MCF7 cells of the extracts of stem bark of three Nigerian medicinal plants (Detarium microcarpum,Guiera senegalensis,andCassia siamea) were investigated. TheD. microcarpumextracts had the highest antioxidant and antiproliferative effects, followed by that ofG. senegalensis, and theC. siameaextracts had minimal effects. The IC50values of the methanol and aqueous extracts from the three plants that inhibited the proliferation of MCF7 cells ranged from 78–> 500μg/ml. Moreover, all the plant extracts but the aqueous extract ofCassia siameaexhibited antimetastatic action and induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in MCF7 cells. Liquid chromatography/time-of-flight/mass spectrometry profiling revealed that the five potent extracts contain many phenols and omega-6 fatty acids, and some of the identified compounds (isorhamnetin, eupatorin, alpinumisoflavone, procyanidin B3, syringin, and gallic acid) have been reported to have antiproliferative effects on cancer cells. Hence, the stem bark of these plants could be potential sources of antibreast cancer agents.
Efficacy and Safety of Gefitinib in Patients with Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Tang Xiaoxia , He Juan , Li Bo , Zheng Yi , Li Kejia , Zou Shun , Chen Long
Published: May 2019

Background. Trials on assessing the benefits of EGFR inhibitors in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients have gradually been published. Nevertheless, the benefits of gefitinib in advanced HNSCC are still unknown. Methods. The Cochrane library, PubMed, and EMBASE databases were systematically searched from the inception dates to 17 July 2017, 18 July 2017, and 19 July 2017, respectively. The keywords “head and neck” and gefitinib were used to retrieve in articles and abstracts. An additional search for recently published randomized trials was performed from July 17, 2017, to April 18, 2018. Then we assessed the risk of bias of the included studies based on the Cochrane “Risk of Bias” tool. Quantitative analysis was carried out to evaluate the overall survival (OS), progression free survival (PFS), overall response rate (ORR), and grade 3-4 adverse effects by Review Manager 5.0.2 and the quality-of-life was analyzed in the included studies. Results. Seven randomized controlled trials and a total number of 1287 patients were involved. There were no significant differences in OS, PFS, or ORR between gefitinib and no gefitinib group (HR 1.07, 95% CI 0.93 to 1.22, and P=0.35; HR 0.84, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.04, and P=0.11; RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.20, and P =0.60, respectively). However, gefitinib alone was equivalent to chemotherapeutics (i.e., methotrexate; methotrexate + fluorouracil) in ORR in patients with recurrent HNSCC, and a trend of improvement in QOL in gefitinib group was showed. Toxicities revealed no differences except for diarrhea and skin toxicity (p=0.0003; p=0.03, respectively). Conclusion. For patients with advanced HNSCC, gefitinib cannot prolong the OS and PFS or improve ORR, and odds of skin toxicity and diarrhea increased. However, gefitinib alone is equivalent to methotrexate or methotrexate + fluorouracil and tends to improve QOL for recurrent patients.
Maximum Likelihood Estimation for Three‐Parameter Weibull Distribution Using Evolutionary Strategy
Authors: Yang Fan , Ren Hu , Hu Zhili
Published: May 2019

The maximum likelihood estimation is a widely used approach to the parameter estimation. However, the conventional algorithm makes the estimation procedure of three‐parameter Weibull distribution difficult. Therefore, this paper proposes an evolutionary strategy to explore the good solutions based on the maximum likelihood method. The maximizing process of likelihood function is converted to an optimization problem. The evolutionary algorithm is employed to obtain the optimal parameters for the likelihood function. Examples are presented to demonstrate the proposed method. The results show that the proposed method is suitable for the parameter estimation of the three‐parameter Weibull distribution.
Effects of Combined Use of Ultrasonic Bone Scalpel and Hemostatic Matrix on Perioperative Blood Loss and Surgical Duration in Degenerative Thoracolumbar Spine Surgery
Authors: Chen Hou-Tsung , Hsu Chieh-Cheng , Lu Meng-Lin , Chen Sung-Hsiung , Chen Jing-Miao , Wu Re-Wen
Published: May 2019

How to decrease intraoperative bleeding, shorten surgical time, and increase safety in spinal surgery is an important issue. Ultrasonic bone removers and FloSeal have been proven to increase safety, reduce the surgical duration, and decrease intraoperative bleeding in skull base surgery. Therefore, we aimed to compare the surgical duration, blood loss, and complications during spinal surgery with or without the use of FloSeal and an ultrasonic bone scalpel. Therefore, we retrospectively reviewed 293 patients who underwent thoracolumbar spinal surgery with decompression and instrumented fusion performed by a single surgeon. We divided these patients into three groups, including nonuse of FloSeal nor a bone scalpel (group A), use of FloSeal only (group B), and use of FloSeal and a bone scalpel (group C) intraoperatively after pairing in terms of age, sex, and surgical level. The surgical duration, blood loss, and occurrence of complications were all recorded. The mean surgical duration in group A was 160 mins, in group B it was 167 mins, and in group C it was 134 mins. The mean blood loss was 700 ml in group A, 682 ml in group B, and 383 ml in group C. Six patients sustained intraoperative dura injuries in total, 3 in group A, 2 in group B, and 1 in group C. No postoperative neurologic defects or occurrences of hematoma were recorded. According to our results, we concluded that combined use of FloSeal and bone scalpels is recommended during primary thoracolumbar spinal surgery to reduce the intraoperative blood loss and shorten the surgical duration.
Design of Integral Variable Structure Controller in Speed Tracking of Wind Driven Generator
Authors: Wang Linlin , Pan Lixin
Published: May 2019

In order to obtain the optimum power factor through maintaining the ratio of blade tip speed to wind speed, a new method for controller design of wind driven generator speed tracking is proposed basing on variable structure control theory. Integral variable of generator speed is introduced into the system equation. Switching surface of variable structure controller is founded with the error of generator speed. Adaptive estimation for wind disturbance and uncertain parameters of system dynamics model is adopted to derive control algorithm for rotation torque in the process of generator speed tracking. Simulation results show that speed tracking precision of wind driven generator is improved by integral variable structure controller. The method proposed in this article is effective and feasible.
On the Tensile Tests of Polyurethane and Its Composites with Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Kuběna Martin , Eliáš Marek , Zajíčková Lenka , Poduška Jan , Kruml Tomáš
Published: May 2019

Neat polyurethane (PU) specimens and composites of polyurethane with variable amounts of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were subjected to tensile tests, stress relaxation tests, and strain rate jumps. Since the already published data about the effect of carbon nanotubes addition to polymer matrix are somewhat contradictory, great care was taken to understand the mechanical properties of neat PU specimens. The studies revealed that the tensile curves of neat PU are substantially influenced by several factors, such as strain rate, age, and thickness of the specimens. The addition of MWCNTs into the PU matrix had a negligible effect on the mechanical properties of composites at low strains (ε < 0.2). With increasing strain, the MWCNTs addition augmented the strength of the composites, and at high local deformations, as in the previously reported indentation experiments, the adhesion strength between functionalized carbon nanotubes and PU matrix substantially influences the mechanical behavior. The material response to the transient mechanical test showed an Arrhenius-type behavior and was analyzed accordingly. The magnitude of the activation volume scaled with the average length of the free segment of the polymer molecules.
Assessment of Levels, Speciation, and Toxicity of Trace Metal Contaminants in Selected Shallow Groundwater Sources, Surface Runoff, Wastewater, and Surface Water from Designated Streams in Lake Victoria Basin, Uganda
Authors: Bakyayita G. K. , Norrström A. C. , Kulabako R. N.
Published: May 2019

The levels, speciation of elements, and toxicity of selected trace metals as well as other parameters in selected surface water, shallow groundwater sources, landfill leachate, and associated surface runoff in the Lake Victoria basin, Uganda, were studied. The WHO guidelines, Ugandan standards, Canadian guidelines and Swedish EPA were used for assessment. The shallow groundwater was acidic with pH values below 6.5. The pH, dissolved organic carbon, flouride, and sulphate levels for all springs were below the guideline values although 52.8% was contaminated with nitrates while 39% was contaminated with chloride ions. Some surface water samples had levels of major elements, such as iron, chromium, aluminium, and manganese, above the guideline values. Speciation studies showed that 74% of the metal ions was bound to dissolved organic matter in surface water, whereas in landfill leachates, the dominant ionic species was metal hydroxides or fulvic acid bound. Risk analysis based on the Swedish EPA showed varied risks of negative effects in 30%–76% of the sample sites ranging from high to increased risk in surface water, whereas the results from modelling sorption data using the Bio-met tool showed potential risk to toxicity effects of Cu2+, Ni2+, Zn2+, and Pb2+ in 15.3%–30.8% surface water samples and 8.3%–62.5% groundwater samples.
Neighborhood Material Deprivation Is Associated with Childhood Asthma Development: Analysis of Prospective Administrative Data
Authors: Simons Elinor , Dell Sharon D. , Moineddin Rahim , To Teresa
Published: May 2019

Rationale. Material deprivation has been proposed as a more comprehensive measure of socioeconomic status than parental income. Stronger associations between childhood emergency department visits for asthma and air pollution have been demonstrated among children living in neighborhoods with high levels of deprivation, but the associations with asthma development and ongoing asthma are not known. Objectives. We determined the associations between neighborhood material deprivation and the development of new and ongoing childhood asthma. Methods. Prospectively collected administrative data housed at the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences were examined for Toronto children born from 1997 to 2003. Neighborhood material deprivation, comprising no high school graduation, lone parent families, government transfers, unemployment, low income, and homes needing major repairs, was reported in the Ontario Marginalization Index. Incident asthma was defined by the time of entry into the Ontario Asthma Surveillance Information System (OASIS) database. We measured the risk of incident asthma using Cox proportional hazards models and the associations between ongoing asthma visits and deprivation by year of life with generalized linear mixed models. Results. OASIS asthma criteria were met for 21% of the 326,383 children. After adjustment for characteristics strongly associated with asthma, including male sex, prematurity, obesity, and atopic conditions other than asthma, children with high birth neighborhood deprivation were at increased risk of incident asthma (HR 1.11; 95% CI, 1.09–1.13). High deprivation in a given year of life was associated with increased odds of ongoing asthma during that year of life (OR 1.03; 95% CI, 1.02–1.05). Conclusions. Children living in high-deprivation neighborhoods are at increased risk of incident and ongoing asthma. This study suggests that neighborhood material deprivation may represent a helpful tool for evaluating the effects of disparities in health and social advantages on the likelihood of developing and continuing to need healthcare visits for ongoing childhood asthma.
TDG Gene Polymorphisms and Their Possible Association with Colorectal Cancer: A Case Control Study
Authors: Reddy Parine Narasimha , Alanazi Ibrahim O. , Shaik Jilani Purusottapatnam , Aldhaian Sooad , Aljebreen Abdulrahman M. , Alharbi Othman , Almadi Majid A. , Azzam Nahla A. , Alanazi Mohammad
Published: May 2019

Genetic alterations that might lead to colorectal cancer involve essential genes including those involved in DNA repair, inclusive of base excision repair (BER). Thymine DNA glycosylase (TDG) is one of the most well characterized BER genes that catalyzes the removal of thymine moieties from G/T mismatches and is also involved in many cellular functions, such as the regulation of gene expression, transcriptional coactivation, and the control of epigenetic DNA modification. Mutation of the TDG gene is implicated in carcinogenesis. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the association between TDG gene polymorphisms and their involvement in colon cancer susceptibility. One hundred blood samples were obtained from colorectal cancer patients and healthy controls for the genotyping of seven SNPs in the TDG gene. DNA was extracted from the blood, and the polymorphic sites (SNPs) rs4135113, rs4135050, rs4135066, rs3751209, rs1866074, and rs1882018 were investigated using TaqMan genotyping. One of the six TDG SNPs was associated with an increased risk of colon cancer. The AA genotype of the TDG SNP rs4135113 increased the risk of colon cancer development by more than 3.6-fold, whereas the minor allele A increased the risk by 1.6-fold. It also showed a 5-fold higher risk in patients over the age of 57. SNP rs1866074 showed a significant protective association in CRC patients. The GA genotype of TDG rs3751209 was associated with a decreased risk in males. There is a significant relationship between TDG gene function and colorectal cancer progression.
Quality of Life in Vietnamese Gastric Cancer Patients
Authors: Ngoc Thi Dang Dzung , Ngoc Thi Nguyen Lan , Thi Dang Nga , Quang Dang Huy , Ta Thanh Van
Published: May 2019

Background. Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in Vietnam. Research on health-related quality of life of Vietnamese gastric cancer patients is still in its infancy. Aim. To assess the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of GC patients using the 15D instrument. Materials and Method. 182 Vietnamese gastric cancer patients were selected to be interviewed and their HRQOL was assessed using the generic 15D questionnaire. Tables regarding history, disease characteristics, and HRQOL of participants were formulated according to genders using STATA 12.0. Results. The average age of the participants was 60.8 ± 11.6. The average time from diagnosis to the date of interview was 14.8 ± 8.4 months. The health-related quality of life (HRQOL) index score of gastric cancer patients using the 15D instrument was 0.92 ± 0.08, in which the “sexual activity” dimension had the lowest score of 0.66. Also, our study found several factors affecting HRQOL, including age, occupation, education, disease stage, treatment, and time from the date of diagnosis. Conclusion. The 15D instrument was a suitable tool to assess Vietnamese gastric cancer patients’ quality of life. Findings from the study suggest the importance of frequently measuring personal functioning and performance of GC patients as parts of QOL assessment during clinical examination. It also implies the needs for more focused policies on raising the overall quality of life of patients such as encouragement of periodical HQROL assessment and acknowledging HRQOL as a treatment/intervention goal besides the 5-year survival rate.
Real Flight Application of a Monocular Image-Based Aircraft Collision Decision Method
Authors: Bauer Peter , Hiba Antal , Zsedrovits Tamas
Published: May 2019

This paper considers real flight application of a monocular image-based aircraft collision decision algorithm developed in a previous paper. First, it briefly summarizes the theory based on the previous paper and extends the results with a detailed evaluation of possible special cases. Second, it introduces the UAVs and flight test scenarios together with the camera system and the steps of image processing used in flight testing. A brief analysis about intruder detectability is also provided referencing a more exhaustive work of the authors. The main contribution is the detailed comparison of the image-based estimated collision parameters to the flight trajectory-based ones together with threshold selection for collision decision. Different threshold combinations are evaluated offline, and finally, real flight decision results based on one of the threshold combinations are also discussed. The paper ends with the setup of future research directions.
Properties of Ag-SnO2 Contact Materials for Low-Voltage Electrical Appliances with Different Doped Particle Sizes
Authors: Wang Haitao , Zhang Mei , Yang Menglin
Published: May 2019

In this paper, the relationship between additive particle size and properties of Ag-SnO2 contact materials was studied. La2O3 and Fe2O3 were selected as additives for contact materials, and the proportion of additives were determined by wettability experiment results; Ag-SnO2 contact materials were successfully fabricated by the powder metallurgy method, and the physical and electrical contact properties of Ag-SnO2 contact materials with five additive particle sizes were investigated. The results show the influence of additives on the properties of Ag-SnO2 contact materials are disparate, the contact resistance and arc energy are smaller and more stable when the additive particle size is about 500 nm. For further proving this conclusion, the arc-eroded surface morphologies of the doped AgSnO2 contact materials were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which indicated that the properties of two kinds of Ag-SnO2 contact materials could be improved significantly by selecting appropriate additive particle size.
Robust Die Compensation in Sheet Metal Design through the Integration of Dual Response Surface and Shape Function Optimization
Authors: Bici Michele , Campana Francesca , Cimolin Flavio , Rizzo Leopoldo
Published: May 2019

In sheet metal forming, springback represents a major drawback increasing die set‐up problems, especially for ultra‐high strength steels. Finite Element Analysis is a well‐established method to simulate the process during design, and multicriteria optimizations, for example, via surrogate models, are investigated in order to develop integrated design. Since to take into account also springback compensation die design may involve a large number of geometric variables, this paper presents a robust design formulation, based on the adoption of the shape function optimization, to describe springback in terms of weights directly associated to global shape variations of the die shape. Doing so, multicriteria optimization, which involves also die compensation, can be set up in a more intuitive approach, as requested in the preliminary steps of die design. After the introduction of the industrial problem, the mathematical formulation of the shape function optimization is presented together with its novel extension to Robust Design, which is based on the Dual Response Surface. Through a test case derived from the head part of a B‐pillar, stamped from a Dual Phase sheet 1.5 mm thick, this novel extension investigates the effect of 6% variation from nominal values of initial yield stress and thickness. Results demonstrate the feasibility of the procedure, underlying that an optimal compensation may not be optimal in terms of process robustness.
Oxygen Regulates Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Metabolic Flux
Authors: Lees Jarmon G. , Cliff Timothy S. , Gammilonghi Amanda , Ryall James G. , Dalton Stephen , Gardner David K. , Harvey Alexandra J.
Published: May 2019

Metabolism has been shown to alter cell fate in human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC). However, current understanding is almost exclusively based on work performed at 20% oxygen (air), with very few studies reporting on hPSC at physiological oxygen (5%). In this study, we integrated metabolic, transcriptomic, and epigenetic data to elucidate the impact of oxygen on hPSC. Using 13C-glucose labeling, we show that 5% oxygen increased the intracellular levels of glycolytic intermediates, glycogen, and the antioxidant response in hPSC. In contrast, 20% oxygen increased metabolite flux through the TCA cycle, activity of mitochondria, and ATP production. Acetylation of H3K9 and H3K27 was elevated at 5% oxygen while H3K27 trimethylation was decreased, conforming to a more open chromatin structure. RNA-seq analysis of 5% oxygen hPSC also indicated increases in glycolysis, lysine demethylases, and glucose-derived carbon metabolism, while increased methyltransferase and cell cycle activity was indicated at 20% oxygen. Our findings show that oxygen drives metabolite flux and specifies carbon fate in hPSC and, although the mechanism remains to be elucidated, oxygen was shown to alter methyltransferase and demethylase activity and the global epigenetic landscape.
Surface Acoustic Wave Sensors for Ammonia Detection at Room Temperature Based on SnO2/Co3O4 Bilayers
Authors: Constantinoiu Izabela , Miu Dana , Viespe Cristian
Published: May 2019

The selectivity of a SAW (surface acoustic wave) sensor, with a Co3O4 sensitive thin film for NH3 (ammonia) and the influence of SnO2 on its sensitivity, was studied. Thin films were deposited by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) on quartz SAW sensor substrates. Two sensors with different types of sensitive films were developed: a Co3O4 thin film sensor (S1) and a SnO2/Co3O4 thin film sensor (S2). The sensitive films were deposited in conditions which ensured a porous structure. The sensors were tested in the presence of three gases: NH3, methanol, and toluene. The selectivity of Co3O4 for NH3 was determined from the difference in the frequency shifts of the sensor for NH3 and for VOCs (volatile organic compounds). The positive influence of SnO2 on the sensitivity of sensor S2 was observed from the lower limit of detection (LOD) of this sensor and from the differences in frequency shifts between sensor S1 and sensor S2.
Posterior Microphthalmia, Peripheral Pigmentary Retinal Changes, Yellow Lesions, and Cleft Lip: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Alsaedi Nasser G. , Alrubaie Khalid
Published: May 2019

Purpose. Posterior microphthalmia is a sporadic or inherited developmental ocular anomaly that may occur isolated or in association with multiple ocular and systemic anomalies. This report documents a case of posterior microphthalmia with atypical presentation including white dots in the posterior pole in addition to systemic anomalies including facial defect that can represent an underlying genetic mutation. Method. Case report. Results. A 29-year-old male with high hyperopia and history of bilateral clear lens presented with pigmentary changes and white-yellow dots in the posterior pole in both eyes. Patient had a history of cleft lip repair. A complete ocular evaluation including A/B scan and optical coherence tomography confirmed the diagnosis of posterior microphthalmia with a retinitis pigmentosa like fundus and drusen deposits in the subretinal pigment epithelium. Conclusion. The white-yellow drusenoid deposits in the posterior pole in association with posterior microphthalmia are poorly documented in the literature. Cases of craniofacial developmental defects in association with posterior microphthalmia may represent a genetic defect.
Amino Acid-Based Metabolic Profile Provides Functional Assessment and Prognostic Value for Heart Failure Outpatients
Authors: Wang Chao-Hung , Cheng Mei-Ling , Liu Min-Hui , Fu Tieh-Cheng
Published: May 2019

Functional capacity is a crucial parameter correlated with outcomes. The currently used New York Heart Association functional classification (NYHA Fc) system has substantial limitations, leading to inaccurate classification. This study investigated whether amino acid-based assessment on metabolic status provides an objective way to assess functional capacity and prognosis in heart failure (HF) outpatients. Plasma concentrations of histidine, ornithine, and phenylalanine (HOP) were measured on 890 HF outpatients to assess metabolic status by calculating the HOP score. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) was performed in 387 patients to measure metabolic equivalents (MET) in order to define the functional class based on MET (MET Fc). Patients were followed for composite events (death/HF-related rehospitalization) up to one year. We found only 47% concordance between the MET Fc and NYHA Fc. HOP scores worked better than NYHA Fc for discriminating patients with MET Fc II and III from those with MET Fc I, with the optimal cutoff value set at 8.8.HOP scores≥8.8were associated with risk factors for composite events in different kinds of HF populations and were a powerful predictor of composite events in univariate analysis. In multivariable analysis,HOP scores≥8.8remained a powerful event predictor, independent of other risk factors. Kaplan-Meier curves revealed that HOP scores of ≥8.8 stratified patients at higher risk of composite events in a variety of HF populations. In conclusion, amino acid-based assessment of metabolic status correlates with functional capacity in HF outpatients and provides prognostic value for a variety of HF populations.