bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preferences for a good death: a cross-sectional survey in advanced cancer patients
Authors: Hou Xiaoting , Lu Yuhan , Yang Hong , Guo Renxiu , Wang Yun , Wen Lihong , Zhang Yaru , Sun Hongyu
Published: April 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe preferences for a good death among Chinese patients with advanced cancer and then to explore factors contributing to their preferences including patient demographics and disease variables.

Methods

A convenience sample of 275 patients with advanced cancer was recruited from a tertiary cancer hospital in Beijing, China, between February and December 2017. A Chinese version of the Good Death Inventory (GDI) was used to measure patients’ preferences for dying and death. Besides, data were collected using a multi-itemed questionnaire focusing on demographic and disease characteristics of patients.

Results

Of the 275 questionnaires returned, 248 responses were analysed (effective response rate 90.2%). According to the total scores for each of the 20 domains, the five most important domains of a good death were: good relationship with family (19.80±2.39), independence (19.66±2.56), maintaining hope and pleasure (19.56±2.55), good relationship with medical staff (18.92±3.73), not being a burden to others (18.89±3.30). Patients’ characteristics including age, educational status, religious belief, medical payment types, family economic status, past experiences of the death of others, the period since cancer diagnosis, past experiences of hospitalisation and subjective physical condition influenced their preferences for a good death (all p<0.05).

Conclusions

We had an in-depth knowledge and understanding of their preferences for good death among Chinese patients with advanced cancer. Meanwhile, we found some patients’ factors contributed to different preferences for a good death. These findings have the potential to guide hospice care services aimed at achieving a good death for patients with advanced cancer.
Morphine infusor pump switch to oral methadone
Authors: Santos Suárez Juan , del Valle Arnáez Gema
Published: April 2019

Between 2014 and 2017, four patients with widespread cancer were referred to a home palliative care team from a hospital in Oviedo (Spain) with subcutaneous elastomeric infusion pump containing 180–260 mg/day of morphine for previously uncontrolled pain. 3–4 rotations were performed over 5–11 days, gradually substituting morphine for oral methadone (three times a day) to minimise the risks of rapid conversion, with a highly variable final subcutaneous morphine:oral methadone ratio (5:1 to 17:1), guided by the absence of pain, and to enhance the patient’s functional capacity avoiding device dependence. The final methadone dose varied between 15 and 39 mg/day. There was daily telephone supervision and visits every 2–4 days. Patient demise occurred 56, 111, 168 and 350 days following the opioid conversion, and methadone was maintained until then. In all cases and prior to concluding the rotation, pain was controlled and sleepiness had subsided.
Enhanced photosensitivity of highly spectrum selective cylindrical gate In1−xGaxAs nanowire MOSFET photodetector
Authors: Sharma Sanjeev Kumar , Raj Balwinder , Khosla Mamta
Published: April 2019

In this study, an [Formula: see text] nanowire metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) photosensor with zinc oxide (metallic ZnO), which act as a transparent optical window over channel has been investigated. The electrical characterization of [Formula: see text] nanowire MOSFET was compared to their silicon counterpart. [Formula: see text] nanowire MOSFET responds to visible-near infrared (600 nm to 1.7 nm) under light illumination as opposite to silicon nanowire MOSFET, which respond to ultraviolet to visible spectra (Peak @ 400 nm). ZnO–[Formula: see text]–InGaAs device is characterized by responsivity [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text], photoconductive gain of [Formula: see text]%, with reasonable available photocurrent of [Formula: see text] and sensitivity [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text]. The present work demonstrates the potential for high performance visible to near-infrared [Formula: see text] detectors with tunable band gaps for applications like interactive display, indoor communication and optical sensors.
The negativity of partial transpose versus the negativity of Wigner function
Authors: Ziane Mustapha , Siyouri Fatima-Zahra , El Baz Morad , Hassouni Yassine
Published: April 2019

We investigate the multipartite entanglement in the phase space using the negativity of Wigner function (NWF) and in the Hilbert space using the negativity of partial transpose (NPT). We analyze comparatively these quantities and the different types of entanglements that are present in two major classes — GHZ and [Formula: see text] — made of coherent states. We show that the negativity of Wigner function can be used as a good measure of genuine entanglement in multipartite systems. However, the negativity of partial transpose is a good quantifier for only the bipartite entanglement in tripartite systems.
Are four dimensions enough? A note on ambient cosmology
Authors: Papadopoulos Kyriakos , Kurt Nazli , Papadopoulos Basil K.
Published: April 2019

In this note, we support that the five-dimensional “ambient cosmology” does not appear to be necessary, neither is required for the scope of avoiding spacetime singularities. This scope can be reached with other, purely topological instruments, without postulating extra dimensions.
Structure and Assembly of the Nuclear Pore Complex
Authors: Hampoelz Bernhard , Andres-Pons Amparo , Kastritis Panagiotis , Beck Martin
Published: April 2019

Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) mediate nucleocytoplasmic exchange. They are exceptionally large protein complexes that fuse the inner and outer nuclear membranes to form channels across the nuclear envelope. About 30 different protein components, termed nucleoporins, assemble in multiple copies into an intricate cylindrical architecture. Here, we review our current knowledge of the structure of nucleoporins and how those come together in situ. We delineate architectural principles on several hierarchical organization levels, including isoforms, posttranslational modifications, nucleoporins, and higher-order oligomerization of nucleoporin subcomplexes. We discuss how cells exploit this modularity to faithfully assemble NPCs.
microRNA-33a prevents epithelial-mesenchymal transition, invasion, and metastasis of gastric cancer cells through the Snail/Slug pathway
Authors: Chen Di-Di , Cheng Jiang-Ting , Chandoo Arvine , Sun Xiang-Wei , Zhang Liang , Lu Ming-Dong , Sun Wei-Jian , Huang Ying-Peng
Published: April 2019

Invasion and metastasis are responsible for the majority of deaths in gastric cancer (GC). microRNA-33a (miR-33a) might function as a tumor suppressor in multiple cancers. Here, we describe the regulation and function of miR-33a in GC and mechanisms involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis. First, GC tissues and adjacent normal tissues were collected. miR-33a upregulation or SNAI2 depletion on GC cells were introduced to assess the detailed regulatory mechanism of them. We assessed the expression of miR-33a, SNAI2, Snail/Slug signaling pathway-related genes, and EMT-related markers in GC tissues and cells. miR-33a distribution in GC tissues and adjacent normal tissues was measured. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and cell cycle distribution were assessed. In nude mice, GC tumor growth and lymph node metastasis were observed. Furthermore, the predicative value of miR-33a in the prognosis of GC patients was evaluated. The obtained results indicated that lowly expressed miR-33a, highly expressed SNAI2, activated Snail/Slug, and increased EMT were identified in GC tissues. miR-33a was located mainly in the cytoplasm. miR-33a targeted and negatively regulated SNAI2. MKN-45 and MKN-28 cell lines were selected for in vitro experiments. Upregulated miR-33a expression or siRNA-mediated silencing of SNAI2 suppressed the activation of Snail/Slug, whereby GC cell proliferation, invasion and migration, EMT, tumor growth, and lymph node metastasis were inhibited. High expression of miR-33a was a protective factor influencing the prognosis of GC. This study suggests that miR-33a inhibited EMT, invasion, and metastasis of GC through the Snail/Slug signaling pathway by modulating SNAI2 expression.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY miR-33a targets and inhibits the expression of SNAI2, overexpression of SNAI2 activates the Snail/Slug signaling pathway, the Snail/Slug signaling pathway promotes GC cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, and overexpression of miR-33a inhibits cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. This study provides a new therapeutic target for the treatment of GC.
Real-time functional analysis of Hv1 channel in neutrophils: a new approach from zebrafish model
Authors: Ratanayotha Adisorn , Kawai Takafumi , Okamura Yasushi
Published: April 2019

Voltage-gated proton channel (Hv1) has been studied in various immune cells, including neutrophils. However, most studies have taken an in vitro approach using isolated cells or primary cultured cells of mammals; therefore, limited evidence is available on the function of Hv1 in a physiological context. In this study, we have developed the in vivo system that enables real-time functional analysis of Hv1 using zebrafish embryos ( Danio rerio). Hvcn1-deficiency ( hvcn1−/−) in zebrafish completely abolished voltage-gated proton current, which is typically observed in wild-type neutrophils. Importantly, hvcn1-deficiency significantly reduced reactive oxygen species production and calcium response of zebrafish neutrophils, comparable to the results observed in mammalian models. These findings verify zebrafish Hv1 (DrHv1) as the primary contributor for native Hv1-derived proton current in neutrophils and suggest the conserved function of Hv1 in the immune cells across vertebrate animals. Taking advantage of Hv1 zebrafish model, we compared real-time behaviors of neutrophils between wild-type and hvcn1−/− zebrafish in response to tissue injury and acute bacterial infection. Notably, we observed a significant increase in the number of phagosomes in hvcn1−/− neutrophils, raising a possible link between Hv1 and phagosomal maturation. Furthermore, survival analysis of zebrafish larvae potentially supports a protective role of Hv1 in the innate immune response against systemic bacterial infection. This study represents the influence of Hv1 on neutrophil behaviors and highlights the benefits of in vivo approach toward the understanding of Hv1 in a physiological context.
Role of GM-CSF in a mouse model of experimental autoimmune prostatitis
Authors: Liu Yaxiao , Li Yan , Liu Qinggang , Wu Zonglong , Cui Jianfeng , Zhu Kejia , Zhao Hongda , Zhou Changkuo , Shi Benkang
Published: April 2019

The etiology of chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is still unknown. Granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) has been shown to play an important role in the development of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Here, we investigated the expression and function of GM-CSF in patients with CP/CPPS and in a mouse model of experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP). GM-CSF mRNA levels were detected in expressed prostatic secretions samples from patients with CP/CPPS and in prostate tissue from a mouse model of EAP. The expression of GM-CSF receptor in mouse prostate and dorsal root ganglia were determined using PCR and immunohistochemistry. Behavioral testing and inflammation scoring were performed to evaluate the role of GM-CSF in disease development and symptom severity of EAP using GM-CSF knockout mice. mRNA levels of putative nociceptive and inflammatory markers were measured in the prostate after the induction of EAP. Elevated GM-CSF mRNA levels were observed in expressed prostatic secretions samples from patients with CP/CPPS compared with healthy volunteers. GM-CSF mRNA was also significantly increased in prostate tissue of the EAP mice model. The expression of GM-CSF receptors was confirmed in mouse prostate and dorsal root ganglia. GM-CSF knockout mice showed fewer Infiltrating leukocytes and pain symptoms after the induction of EAP. Deletion of GM-CSF significantly diminished EAP-induced increases of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 3, and nerve growth factor mRNA expression. The results indicated that GM-CSF plays a functional role in the pathogenesis of EAP. GM-CSF may function as a signaling mediator for both inflammation and pain transduction in CP/CPPS.
Extracellular MMP-9-Based Assessment of Ocular Surface Inflammation in Patients with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Zaleska-Żmijewska Anna , Strzemecka Ewa , Wawrzyniak Zbigniew M. , Szaflik Jacek P.
Published: April 2019

Purpose. Objective assessment of dry eye disease (DED) severity and ocular inflammation using the InflammaDry® test for extracellular matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and the impact of antiglaucoma eye drops in people with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Methods. Overall, 90 adults (180 eyes) were included: 60 had been diagnosed with POAG and were treated with prostaglandin analogue monotherapy and 30 were suspected of having POAG but did not receive any treatment (control group). Of those treated with prostaglandin eye drops, 30 received a preservative-free formulation (tafluprost) and 30 were treated with a formulation containing the preservative benzalkonium chloride (BAK) (latanoprost). Measurement of extracellular MMP-9 levels (InflammaDry test) provided a marker for ocular surface inflammation. Further assessments of disease severity and inflammation comprised Goldmann applanation tonometry for intraocular pressure (IOP), Schirmer’s test with anesthesia, ocular surface staining with unpreserved fluorescein (Oxford scale index), tear breakup time (TBUT), McMonnies questionnaire, and the Ocular Surface Disease index (OSDI). Results. Clinically significant MMP-9 levels (>40 ng/mL) were detected in tear film from 46.7% of subjects treated with BAK-containing medication. In contrast, only 16.7% of subjects treated with preservative-free medication or untreated individuals demonstrated similar MMP-9 levels. This difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). MMP-9 results correlated with other indicators of inflammation and disease severity. BAK-containing medication was associated with rapid TBUT (<5 seconds) in 50% of cases, while only 10% of untreated subjects and individuals using preservative-free medication demonstrated comparable TBUT results. Conclusion. Measurement of ocular surface MMP-9 level provides a useful marker for inflammation and DED in POAG. Use of a preservative-free topical prostaglandin formulation results in lower levels of ocular inflammation, compared with BAK-containing medication.
Whether Keratectasia Area Shown in Corneal Topography Is Appropriate for Evaluating the Effect of Corneal Cross-Linking for Keratoconus: A 12-Month Follow-Up Study
Authors: Wang Jia , Li Zhiwei , Zhang Huankai , Gao Ning , Mu Guoying
Published: April 2019

Purpose. To analyze the keratectasia area (KEA) shown in corneal topography before and after corneal cross-linking (CXL) in patients with progressive keratoconus (KC) and figure out whether KEA is appropriate for evaluating the effect of CXL. Methods. A retrospective analysis was conducted in 34 eyes from 24 progressive KC patients who have underwent CXL from 2015 to 2017. Area with K-value more than 47D shown in the corneal topography was marked and identified as KEA. Keratometry (K1, K2, and Kmax), KEA, thinnest corneal thickness (TCT), and endothelial cell density (ECD) were evaluated preoperatively or at months 3, 6, and 12 postoperatively. The changes of KEA before and after operation were evaluated. The relation of KEA and other parameters, including Kmax and TCT, was analyzed. Results. Linear regression model revealed the KEA, Kmax, K1, and K2 decreased after CXL in model y = 0.9622 -0.02408 x (P<0.05), y = 0.9982 -0.003469 x(P<0.05), y = 0.9977 + -0.001347 x(P<0.05), y = 0.9992 + -0.001779 x(P<0.05) (y represents KEA, Kmax, K1, or K2; x represents time (month)). The KEA is significantly decreased in early stage (before month 3) (P<0.05); however, the Kmax, K1, and K2 have no significant decrease in early stage (P= 0.09, 0.19, 0.32). Conclusions. The KEA is more sensitive than K-value in describing the morphological changes of cornea after CXL, especially in early stage after treatment.
Model and Algorithm for Human Resource-Constrained R&D Program Scheduling Optimization
Authors: Chen Junjie , Tong Shurong , Xie Hongmei , Nie Yafei , Zhang Jingwen
Published: April 2019

In resource-constrained project scheduling problems, renewable resources can be expanded into human resources with competency differences. A flexible resource-constrained project scheduling problem with competency differences is proposed, which is a practical extension close to Research and Development (R&D) program management, from the traditional multimode resource-constrained project scheduling problem. A parameter and estimation formula to measure staff competency is presented, and a mixed-integer programming model is established for the problem. The single-objective optimization problems of optimal duration and optimal cost are solved sequentially according to the biobjective importance. To solve the model, according to the assumptions and constraints of the model, the initial network diagram of multiple projects is determined, the enumeration algorithm satisfying constraint conditions provides the feasible solution sets, and the algorithm based on dynamic programming is designed for phased optimization. Experimental results show that the proposed optimization model considering competence differences can solve the problem effectively.
Balloon-Assisted Percutaneous Transhepatic Antegrade Embolization with 2-Octyl Cyanoacrylate for the Treatment of Isolated Gastric Varices with Large Gastrorenal Shunts
Authors: Wang Guangchuan , Meng Dongxiao , Huang Guangjun , Pei Qingshan , Zhao Lianhui , Shi Yongjun , Zhang Mingyan , Feng Hua , Zhang Junyong , Zhang Chunqing
Published: April 2019

Aims. To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of percutaneous transhepatic antegrade embolization (PTAE) with 2-octyl cyanoacrylate assisted with balloon occlusion of the left renal vein or gastrorenal shunts (GRSs) for the treatment of isolated gastric varices (IGVs) with large GRSs. Methods. Thirty patients with IGVs associated with large GRSs who had underwent PTAE assisted with a balloon to block the opening of the GRS in the left renal vein were retrospectively evaluated and followed up. Clinical and laboratory data were collected to evaluate the technical success of the procedure, complications, changes in the liver function using Child-Pugh scores, worsening of the esophageal varices, the rebleeding rate, and survival. Laboratory data obtained before and after PTAE were compared (paired-sample t-test). Results. PTAE was technically successful in all 30 patients. No serious complications were observed except for one nonsymptomatic pulmonary embolism. During a mean follow-up of 30 months, rebleeding was observed in 4/30 (13.3%) patients, worsening of esophageal varices was observed in 4/30 (13.3%) patients, and newly developed or aggravated ascites were observed on CT in 3/30 (10%) patients. Significant improvement was observed in Child-Pugh scores (p=0.009) and the international normalized ratio (INR) (p=0.004) at 3 months after PTAE. The cumulative survival rates at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years were 96.3%, 96.3%, 79.9%, and 79.9%, respectively. Conclusion. Balloon-assisted PTAE with 2-octyl cyanoacrylate is technically feasible, safe, and effective for the treatment of IGV associated with a large GRS.
Analytic Hierarchy Process by Least Square Method Revisit
Authors: Lin Scott Shu-Cheng
Published: April 2019

We study the paper of Saaty and Vargas to discuss the solutions for a comparison matrix derived by eigenvector method, least square method, and logarithmic least square method, respectively. We prove that the prediction of Saaty and Vargas is valid. Our result will provide a patch work for the theoretic foundation for Analytic Hierarchy Process.
Genome-Wide Identification, Evolution, and Transcriptional Profiling ofPP2CGene Family inBrassica rapa
Authors: Khan Nadeem , Ke Han , Hu Chun-mei , Naseri Emal , Haider Muhammad Salman , Ayaz Aliya , Amjad Khan Waleed , Wang Jianjun , Hou Xilin
Published: April 2019

The type 2C protein which belongs to the major group of protein phosphatases (PP2C) plays a vital role in abscisic acid (ABA) signaling and signal transductions processes. In the present study, 131PP2Cgenes were identified in total inBrassica rapaand categorized into thirteen subgroups based on their phylogenetic relationships. TheseB. rapaPP2C are structurally conserved based on amino acid sequence alignment, phylogenetic analysis, and conserved domains. Moreover, we utilized previously reported RNA-sequence data on various tissues (root, stem, leaf, flower, and silique), which suggests overlapping expression pattern in 29 paralogous gene pairs. The qRT-PCR validation of 15 paralogous gene pairs depicts distinct expression patterns in response to various abiotic stresses, such as heat, cold, ABA, and drought. Interestingly, stress-responsiveBraPP2Ccandidate genes were also identified, suggesting their significance in stress-tolerance mechanism inB. rapa. The evolutionary analysis for 15 paralogous gene pairs suggested that only three pairs have the positive selection and remaining were purifying in nature. The presented results of this study hasten our understanding of the molecular evolution of thePP2Cgene family inB. rapa. Thus, it will be ultimately helping in future research for facilitating the functional characterization ofBraPP2Cgenes in developing the abiotic stress tolerant plants.
Numerical Study of Solitary Wave Interaction with a Submerged Semicircular Cylinder
Authors: Ji Qiaoling , Wang Yu , Zhang Guowei
Published: April 2019

The propagation on submerged structures of solitary wave, as a typical nonlinear wave, has guiding significance for the design and operation of coastal engineering. This paper presents a numerical model based on Navier‐Stokes equations to study the interaction of the solitary wave with a submerged semicircular cylinder. A multiphase method is utilized to deal with water and air phase. The model uses the CIP (Constrained Interpolation Profile) method to solve the convection term of the Navier‐Stokes equations and the THINC (Tangent of Hyperbola for Interface Capturing) scheme to capture the free surface. Three representative cases different in relative solitary wave height and structure size are simulated and analyzed by this model. By comparing the surface elevations at wave gauges with the experimental data and the documented numerical results, the present model is verified. Then, the wave pressure field around the submerged semicircular cylinder is presented and analyzed. At last, the velocity and vorticity fields are demonstrated to elucidate the characteristics of wave breaking, flow separation, and vortex generation and evolution during the wave‐structure interaction. This work presents the fact that this numerical model combining the CIP and THINC methods has the ability to give a comprehensive comprehension of the flow around the structure during the nonlinear interaction of the solitary wave with a submerged structure.
Water‐Based Metaheuristics: How Water Dynamics Can Help Us to Solve NP‐Hard Problems
Authors: Rubio Fernando , Rodríguez Ismael
Published: April 2019

Many water‐based optimization metaheuristics have been introduced during the last decade, both for combinatorial and for continuous optimization. Despite the strong similarities of these methods in terms of their underlying natural metaphors (most of them emulate, in some way or another, how drops collaboratively form paths down to the sea), in general the resulting algorithms are quite different in terms of their searching approach or their solution construction approach. For instance, each entity may represent a solution by itself or, alternatively, entities may construct solutions by modifying the landscape while moving. A researcher or practitioner could assume that the degree of similarity between two water‐based metaheuristics heavily depends on the similarity of the natural water mechanics they emulate, but this is not the case. In order to bring some clarity to this mosaic of apparently related metaheuristics, in this paper we introduce them, explain their mechanics, and highlight their differences.
The Effect of CuO on the Thermal Behavior of the High-Energy Combustion Agent of the Al/MnO2 System
Authors: Wang Hao , Guo Tao , Ding Wen , Yao Miao , Fang Xiang , Song Jia-xing
Published: April 2019

In this work, the effect of CuO addition into the high-energy combustion agent of Al/MnO2 system was studied. First, the combustion experiments of five samples with different contents had been carried out, in which CuO was found capable of influencing the flame ejection to a great extent. Then, in order to find out the underlying reasons, CuO effects on the thermal behavior of Al/MnO2 system were analyzed via theoretical calculations of Gibbs free energy and enthalpy changes. In addition, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) that could characterize the mixture morphology and thermogravimetric-differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC) that could indentify the exothermic and endothermic reactions and measure mass change were carried out. Finally, on the basis of all experimental findings, it was suggested that addition of CuO into Al/MnO2 system could result in dramatic increase of gas content throughout the reaction and the consequent high pressure. Also, speed of flame injection and heat released in the high-temperature area would thus be conducive to the continuous exothermic behavior of the reaction.
Acid-Alkali-Treated Natural Mordenite-Supported Platinum Nanoparticles (Pt/MORn-H-OH) for Efficient Catalytic Oxidation of Formaldehyde at Room Temperature
Authors: Gao Xiaoya , Guo Qian , Zhou Yuan , He Dedong , Luo Yongming
Published: April 2019

In this work, a series of natural mordenite-supported platinum (Pt) catalysts were prepared by a facile two-step method, namely, treatment of natural mordenite and then the loading of Pt nanoparticles. The acid-alkali-treated natural mordenite-supported Pt samples (1% Pt/MORn-H-OH) exhibited the highly enhanced catalytic oxidation activity of formaldehyde (HCHO) at room temperature. XRD results showed that the crystalline phase of the mordenite did not change significantly in 1% Pt/MORn-H-OH catalyst. However, the acid-alkali treatment endowed the Pt particles excellent dispersion with the smallest diameter of 2.8 nm in a high loading content, which contributed to the optimal catalytic activity of 1% Pt/MORn-H-OH.
Finite‐Time H∞ Filtering for Discrete‐Time Singular Markovian Jump Systems with Time Delay and Input Saturation
Authors: Guan Wei , Fu Lei , Ma Yuechao
Published: April 2019

The paper is discussed with the problem of finite‐time H∞ filtering for discrete‐time singular Markovian jump systems (SMJSs). The systems under consideration consist of time‐varying delay, actuator saturation and partly unknown transition probabilities. We pay attention to the design of a H∞ filtering which ensures the filtering error systems to be singular stochastic finite‐time boundedness. By employing an adequate stochastic Lyapunov functional together with a class of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), a sufficient condition is firstly established, which guarantees the systems to achieve our goal and satisfy a prescribed H∞ attenuation level in the given finite‐time interval. Considering the above conditions, a distinct presentation for the requested H∞ filter is given. Finally, two numerical examples add to a dynamical Leontief model of economic systems are presented to illustrate the validity of the developed theoretical results.
Effectiveness and Safety of Oral Cordyceps sinensis on Stable COPD of GOLD Stages 2–3: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yu Xuhua , Mao Yuquan , Shergis Johannah Linda , Coyle Meaghan E. , Wu Lei , Chen Yuanbin , Zhang Anthony Lin , Lin Lin , Xue Charlie Changli , Xu Yinji
Published: April 2019

Cordyceps sinensis (CS) is a complementary medicine used for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) of Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) stages 2-3. Many randomized controlled trials have been conducted to evaluate the effect of CS alone or in combination with other herbs on stable COPD. To provide a synthesis of the evidence, we searched nine major electronic databases for randomized controlled trials on CS published before 21st December 2016. Fifteen interventional studies, including 1,238 participants, met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis showed that both CS preparations and CS formulae showed the potential benefits in lung function, exercise endurance, life quality, and improvement of symptoms. No serious adverse events were reported. So CS may be a promising treatment for patients with stable COPD of GOLD stages 2-3. No studies were placebo-controlled or of high methodological quality, which limits the conclusions.
Comparison of Two Innovative Strategies Using Augmented Reality for Communication in Aesthetic Dentistry: A Pilot Study
Authors: Touati Romane , Richert Raphaël , Millet Catherine , Farges Jean-Christophe , Sailer Irena , Ducret Maxime
Published: April 2019

During dental prosthetic rehabilitation, communication and conception are achieved using rigorous methodologies such as smile design protocols. The aim of the present pilot study was to compare two innovative strategies that used augmented reality for communication in dentistry. These strategies enable the user to instantly try a virtual smile proposition by taking a set of pictures from different points of view or by using the iPad as an enhanced mirror. Sixth-year dental students (n=18, women = 13, men = 5, mean age = 23.8) were included in this pilot study and were asked to answer a 5-question questionnaire studying the user experience using a visual analog scale (VAS). Answers were converted into a numerical result ranging from 0 to 100 for statistical analysis. Participants were not able to report a difference between the two strategies in terms of handling of the device (p=0.45), quality of the reconstruction (p=0.73), and fluidity of the software (p=0.67). Even if the participants’ experience with the enhanced mirror was more often reported as immersive and more likely to be integrated in a daily dental office practice, no significant increase was reported (p=0.15 and p=0.07). Further investigations are required to evaluate time and cost savings in daily practice. Software accuracy is also a major point to investigate in order to go further in clinical applications.
Label-Free LC-MS/MS Proteomics Analyses Reveal Proteomic Changes AccompanyingMSTNKO in C2C12 Cells
Authors: Wang Lamei , Huang Yu , Wang Xiaolong , Chen Yulin
Published: April 2019

Analysis of the proteome of myostatin (MSTN) knockout (KO) mouse C2C12 cells has proven valuable to studies investigating the molecular mechanisms by whichMSTNregulates skeletal muscle development. To identify new protein/pathway alterations and candidate biomarkers for skeletal muscle development, we compared proteomic profiles ofMSTNKO C2C12 cells (KO) with corresponding wild-type cells (NC) using a label-free liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) technique. A total of 2637 proteins were identified and quantified in KO cells. Among these proteins, 77 proteins were significantly differentially expressed, 38 upregulated, and 39 downregulated, inMSTNKO C2C12 cells. These significantly altered proteins are involved in metabolic processes, developmental processes, immune system processes, and the regulation of other biological processes. Enrichment analysis was utilized to link these alterations to biological pathways, which are predominantly related to oxidative phosphorylation, protein digestion and absorption, mitochondrion localisation, antigen processing and presentation, the MAPK signaling pathway, the PPAR signaling pathway, the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. Upregulation of several proteins, including epoxide hydrolase, tropomyosin 1, Cyb5a, HTRA1, Cox6a1, CD109, Synap29, and Ugt1a6, likely enhanced skeletal muscle development, the immune system, and energy metabolism. Collectively, our results present a comprehensive proteomics analysis ofMSTNKO C2C12 myoblast cells; we hypothesize thatMSTNKO could activate p38MAPK signaling pathway by CDC42, and we further deciphered the function ofMSTNin the regulation of skeletal muscle development, immune processes, and mitochondrial energy metabolism.
A Braking Intention Identification Method Based on Data Mining for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Wang Bo , Wang Liandong , Tang Xianzhi , Yang Shujun
Published: April 2019

A braking intention identification method based on empirical mode decomposition (EMD) algorithm and entropy theory for electric vehicles is proposed. EMD algorithm is given to decompose nonstationary brake pedal signal to stationary intrinsic mode function (IMF), which is the base of data mining. After that, entropy theory is used to extract brake pedal signal features. A braking intention identification model is built based on fuzzy c‐means clustering algorithm. The hardware and software for braking intention identification system based on this method is set up to do offline and real‐time experiments. The results show that the identification method proposed in this paper has good real‐time quality and can distinguish moderate braking intention and gentle braking intention better.
Antibacterial Activity of Honey against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus: A Laboratory-Based Experimental Study
Authors: Mama Mohammedaman , Teshome Teklu , Detamo Jafer
Published: April 2019

Background. Antimicrobial drug resistance is one of the serious issues this world is facing nowadays, and increased cost of searching for effective antimicrobial agents and the decreased rate of new drug discovery have made the situation increasingly worrisome. Objective. The aim of this study is to determine in vitro antibacterial activity of honey against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates from wound infection. Methods. An experimental study was conducted from May to November 2017. Methicillin resistance was detected using cefoxitin (30 μg) and oxacillin (1 μg) antibiotic discs. Different concentrations of honey (25–100% v/v) were tested against each type of clinical isolates obtained from wound infection. A preliminary sensitivity test was done to all types of honey by using disk diffusion while minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration were determined for the most potent honey by the broth dilution technique. All statistical analysis was performed by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 20. Results. In this study, 36 bacterial isolates were recovered from 50 specimens, showing an isolation rate of 72%. The predominant bacteria isolated from the infected wounds were Staphylococcus aureus (15, 41.7%). Among identified Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin resistance accounts for 10 isolates (27.8%). All isolates showed a high frequency of resistance to tetracycline. Four collected honey varieties exhibited antibacterial activity, while the strongest inhibitory activity was demonstrated by honey-2 at 75% v/v. The mean MIC and MBC of honey-2 ranged from 9.38 to 37.5% v/v. Conclusions. Tested honey has both a bacteriostatic and bactericidal activity. Among the tested honey, “honey-2” had high antibacterial potency than others.
PPARδ: A Potential Therapeutic Target for the Treatment of Metabolic Hypertension
Authors: Jiang Yanli , Li Qiang , Jia Mengxiao , Yan Zhencheng
Published: April 2019

High blood pressure and its associated cardiovascular diseases have been major risks for public health. Multiple metabolic risk factors can cause the vascular dysfunction and vascular lesion, and the hypertension due to metabolic disturbances was defined as metabolic hypertension. The members of a subfamily of the nuclear receptors, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), were found to be key regulators of metabolism and vascular function. We provide up-to-date knowledge on the role of subtype PPARδ in the regulation of metabolism and vascular function and the effect of its intervention on the metabolic hypertension management. We hope to give some insights into the development of more effective treatments of metabolic hypertension and its main complications.
Analytical and Iterative Solutions to GNSS Attitude Determination Problem in Measurement Domain
Authors: Chen Baowei , Chang Guobin , Li Shengquan , Deng Kailiang
Published: April 2019

Attitude determination using double‐differenced GNSS carrier phase measurements is studied. A realistic stochastic model is employed to take the correlations among the double‐differenced measurements into full consideration. Two important issues concerning iteratively solving the nonlinear least‐squares attitude determination problem are treated, namely, the initial guess and the iteration scheme. An analytical and sub‐optimal solution is employed to provide the initial guess. In this solution, the orthogonal and determinant constraints among the elements of the direction cosine matrix (DCM) of the attitude are firstly ignored, and hence a relaxed 3×3 matrix is estimated using the linear weighted least‐squares method. Then a mathematically feasible DCM, i.e., orthogonal and with +1 determinant, is extracted from the relaxed matrix estimate, optimally in the sense of minimum Frobenius norm. This analytical initial guess estimation method can be used for all feasible cases, including some generated ones, e.g., the case with only 3 antennas and only 3 satellites, subject possibly to some necessary, yet minor modifications. In each iteration, an error attitude, whose DCM is parameterized using the Gibbs vector, is introduced to relate the previously estimated and the true DCM. By linearizing the measurement model at the zero Gibbs vector, the least‐squares estimate of the Gibbs vector is obtained and then used to correct the previously estimated DCM. By repeating this process, the truly least‐squares estimate of the attitude can be achieved progressively. These are in fact Gauss‐Newton iterations. For the final estimate, the variance covariance matrix (VCM) of the attitude estimation error can be retained to evaluate or predict the estimation accuracy. The extraction of the widely used roll‐pitch‐yaw angles and the VCM of their additive estimation errors from the final solution is also presented. Numerical experiments are conducted to check the performance of the developed theory. For the case with 3 2‐meter long and orthogonally mounted baselines, 5 visible satellites, and 5‐millimeter standard deviations of the carrier phase measurements, the root mean squared errors (RMSE) of the roll‐pitch‐yaw angles in the analytical solution are well below 0.5 degrees, and the estimates converge after only one iteration, with all three RMSEs below 0.2 degrees.
Urinary Uromodulin Levels andUMODVariants in Black South Africans with Hypertension-Attributed Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Nqebelele Nolubabalo Unati , Dickens Caroline , Dix-Peek Therese , Duarte Raquel , Naicker Saraladevi
Published: April 2019

Uromodulin, the most abundant protein in urine, is synthesized in the thick ascending loop of Henle and distal convoluted tubules. Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have reduced urinary uromodulin levels secondary to tubular damage. Genome wide association studies identified significant single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) associations with CKD at the uromodulin (UMOD)locus. We examined the association of urinary uromodulin concentrations with CKD and with SNP rs1333226 in theUMODgene. The study included 71 black South Africans with hypertension-attributed CKD with an eGFR ≤ 60ml/min/1.73m2, 52 first-degree relatives, and 58 unrelated controls. Urinary uromodulin concentration was measured using Luminex® multiplex kits. After DNA extraction from blood using the Maxwell® automated platform, genotyping of rs13333226 was performed using real-time PCR using TaqMan® genotyping assays. Urinary uromodulin levels were significantly lower in CKD cases compared to both controls and first-degree relatives and correlated negatively with age, serum uric acid, serum creatinine, and systolic BP and positively with CKD-EPI eGFR. For each 1-standard deviation increase in uromodulin level, the multivariable-adjusted odds ratio for CKD was 0.6 (95% CI [0.48 to 0.81];p<0.01). There were no significant differences in the minor allele frequency between CKD cases and controls (p= 0.59) nor between first-degree relatives and controls (p= 0.98). There were no significant associations between genotype at rs13333226 and urine uromodulin levels (p= 0.43). Higher levels of urinary uromodulin are associated with lower odds of hypertension-attributed CKD. We did not detect associations of genotype at rs13333226 with urinary uromodulin levels in our sample population. Larger sample size studies from ethnically disparate populations are essential to further categorize this association.
Comparative Study on Mechanical Properties of a Tube‐Crushing Dissipator and a Symmetric Tube‐Crushing Dissipator
Authors: Wang Wenkang , Shi Shaoqing , Wang Gaosheng
Published: April 2019

The tube‐crushing dissipator is widely used in engineering, but it has the eccentricity problem. Therefore, a symmetric tube‐crushing dissipator was proposed in this article, and quasistatic and dynamic tests were performed to compare mechanical properties of the tube‐crushing dissipators and the symmetric tube‐crushing dissipators. The results of the quasistatic tests show that the working force of the tube‐crushing dissipators fluctuates around an average value which is about 20% smaller than the activation threshold after activation, while the working force fluctuates around an average value which is approximately equal to the activation threshold after activation. The results of the dynamic tests show that mean force at the crushing section of the tube‐crushing dissipators and the symmetric tube‐crushing dissipators increases with the increase of the impact velocity. Furthermore, the dynamic load‐displacement curves are more volatile than those of the static tests. Therefore, dynamic tests which are more similar to the real working conditions of the dissipators are preferable over static tests. In addition, the metal tubes of the symmetric tube‐crushing dissipators collapse vertically both in the quasistatic and dynamic tests; that is, the eccentricity problem of the tube‐crushing dissipators is overcome by the symmetric tube‐crushing dissipators.
Ethanol Extract of Centipeda minima Exerts Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Effects via Activation of the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Yi-Jie , Wang Xin-Yue , Hao Xu-Yi , Yan Yong-Ming , Hong Ming , Wei Su-Fen , Zhou Yi-Le , Wang Qi , Cheng Yong-Xian , Liu Yong-Qiang
Published: April 2019

Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration and other aging-related diseases. Previous studies have found that the whole herb of Centipeda minima has remarkable antioxidant activities. However, there have been no reports on the neuroprotective effects of C. minima, and the underlying mechanism of its antioxidant properties is unclear. Here, we examined the underlying mechanism of the antioxidant activities of the ethanol extract of C. minima (ECM) both in vivo and in vitro and found that ECM treatment attenuated glutamate and tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP)-induced neuronal death, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and mitochondria dysfunction. tBHP-induced phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) was reduced by ECM, and ECM sustained phosphorylation level of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) in SH-SY5Y and PC12 cells. Moreover, ECM induced the activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the upregulation of phase II detoxification enzymes, including heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), superoxide dismutase-2 (SOD2), and NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO-1) in both two cell types. In a D-galactose (D-gal) and aluminum muriate (AlCl3)-induced neurodegenerative mouse model, administration of ECM improved the learning and memory of mice in the Morris water maze test and ameliorated the effects of neurodegenerative disorders. ECM sustained the expression level of postsynaptic density 95 (PSD95) and synaptophysin (SYN), activated the Nrf2 signaling pathway, and restored the levels of cellular antioxidants in the hippocampus of mice. In addition, four sesquiterpenoids were isolated from C. minima to identify the bioactive components responsible for the antioxidant activity of C. minima; 6-O-angeloylplenolin and arnicolide D were found to be the active compounds responsible for the activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway and inhibition of ROS production. Our study examined the mechanism of C. minima and its active components in the amelioration of oxidative stress, which holds the promise for the treatment of neurodegenerative disease.
Study of Structural Properties of BiOI on ZnO Thin Films and ZnO Nanorods
Authors: Gutiérrez-Lazos C. D. , Fundora-Cruz A. , Solís-Pomar F. , Pérez-Tijerina E.
Published: April 2019

We report the study of ZnO nanorods (ZnO-NR) decorated with BiOI nanoplatelets by the simple precipitation of BiOI in aqueous solution containing ZnO-NR powders. Likewise, as a reference for the decoration of ZnO-NR, BiOI thin films were prepared by the SILAR technique on RF magnetron-sputtered ZnO thin films. The scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that BiOI grew on the ZnO-NR surfaces in nanoplatelet shape with an order of magnitude smaller in size, with respect to the platelets observed in BiOI thin films. Analysis by X-ray diffraction exhibited the hexagonal P63mc phase of ZnO and the tetragonal P4nmm crystal phase of BiOI. On the other hand, BiOI thin films are nonuniform and strongly adherent and, besides they exhibited the P4nmm tetragonal crystal structure of BiOI, they have highly preferential orientation along (001) direction (9.66°). Optical characterization of ZnO-NR/BiOI by absorbance showed a widened peak slightly shifted to infrared compared with the ZnO-NR absorbance peak, suggesting the increase of the absorption wavelength ranges from the ultraviolet to visible for ZnO-NR. Similarly, the results of the optical characterization by absorbance, for BiOI thin films, indicated the bandgap energy of the samples was between 1.78 eV and 1.88 eV, values previously reported for BiOI.