bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Little Finger Metacarpal Fractures: A Meta-Analysis of the Current Evidence
Authors: Chong Han Hong , Hau Melinda YT. , Shah Rohi , Singh Harvinder
Published: July 2020

Background: The little finger metacarpal neck fracture, also known as boxer’s fracture, is a commonly encountered upper limb fracture in orthopaedics. There are multiple ways of managing this fracture, ranging from immediate mobilization to rigid internal fixation. However, there is still a lack of consensus on the best management option. The aim of this study is to review all comparative studies, either randomized trial or cohort studies, on little finger metacarpal neck fracture management, meta-analyze the radiological and functional outcome between conservative and operative management.

Methods: A systematic search of the literature was conducted between year 1987 to 2018 on MEDLINE and EMBASE. To be included, studies needed to have shown comparison between conservative against operative management, assessing the radiological (palmar angulation) and the patient reported functional outcomes. The data were pooled using fixed-effect method. The methodology was adapted from the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Review of Interventions and compliant with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PROSPERO CRD42018099168).

Results: 5 full papers were included in our study. Our meta-analysis showed that compared to operative management, conservative management report worse radiological palmar angulation at follow-up; but equivalent functional outcome in terms of Quick-DASH and grip strength. Conservative studies also showed fewer mean days off in comparison to operative management. Conservative management also showed equivalent Total Active Motion (TAM) and Visual Analogue Score for Pain (VAS), but some studies had insufficient data to be pooled.

Conclusions: Regardless of palmar angulation, conservative treatment of little finger metacarpal neck fracture provides an equivalent functional outcome to surgical intervention with an earlier return to work and no risk of surgical complications. Larger, randomised controlled trials are required.
Prognostic Factors Affecting Clinical Outcomes of Arthroscopic Assisted Reduction and Volar Plating through Preservation of Pronator Quadratus for Intra-Articular Distal Radius Fracture
Authors: Jung Jae-Uk , Yang Seok-Won , Kim Jung-Sang , Park Jae-Wook , Kim Jong-Pil
Published: July 2020

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes following an arthroscopic-assisted reduction and volar plating (AR-VP) surgery through pronator quadratus (PQ) preservation for treating intra-articular distal radius fractures (IA-DRFs) and to assess prognostic factors that affect functional outcomes.

Methods: Between March 2014 and February 2017, 54 patients who had intra-articular DRF and underwent AR-VP through the PQ preservation technique and completed 1-year follow-up were enrolled. Patients were divided into the satisfactory group (excellent and good results) and an unsatisfactory group (fair and poor results) based on the modified Mayo Wrist Scoring System (MMWS) scored at 1-year follow-up to determinate prognostic factors that affected clinical outcomes. Patients’ demographics, clinical outcome measures (VAS, DASH, PRWE, etc.), and pre-and post-operative radiographic parameters were analyzed.

Results: The outcomes according to MMWS were 10 excellent, 22 good, 14 fair, and 8 poor. A univariate analysis showed a significant difference between the groups (p < .05) for all radiographic parameters, sex, and the presence of an intra-articular comminution. In the multivariate analysis, female gender, presence of an intra-articular comminution, and difference of palmar articular tilt compared to uninjured wrist (> 20.1°) at trauma were considered as significant poor prognostic factors of functional outcome.

Conclusions: AR-VP surgery through PQ preservation for intra-articular DRFs has reliable clinical and radiological outcomes. However, female gender, presence of an intra-articular comminution, and difference of palmar articular tilt compared to the uninjured wrist (> 20.1°) at initial injury were considered poor prognostic factors for AR-VP through PQ preservation for intra-articular DRF.
Potential Climate Benefits of Digital Consumer Innovations
Authors: Wilson Charlie , Kerr Laurie , Sprei Frances , Vrain Emilie , Wilson Mark
Published: July 2020

Digitalization has opened up a wealth of new goods and services with strong consumer appeal alongside potential emission-reduction benefits. Examples range from shared, on-demand electric mobility and peer-to-peer trading of electricity, food, and cars to grid-responsive smart appliances and heating systems. In this review, we identify an illustrative sample of 33 digital consumer innovations that challenge emission-intensive mainstream consumption practices in mobility, food, homes, and energy domains. Across these domains, digital innovations offer consumers a range of potentially appealing attributes from control, choice, and convenience to independence, interconnectedness, and integration with systems. We then compile quantitative estimates of change in activity, energy, or emissions as a result of consumers adopting digital innovations. This novel synthesis of the evidence base shows clear but variable potential emission-reduction benefits of digital consumer innovations. However, a small number of studies show emission increases from specific innovations as a result of induced demand or substitution effects that need careful management by public policy. We also consider how concurrent adoption of digital consumer innovations across mobility, food, homes, and energy domains can cause broader disruptive impacts on regulatory frameworks, norms, and infrastructures. We conclude by arguing for the importance of public policy in steering the digitalization of consumer goods and services toward low-carbon outcomes.
Out of breath, out of time: interactions between HIF and circadian rhythms
Authors: O’Connell Emma J. , Martinez Chloe-Anne , Liang Yichuan G. , Cistulli Peter A. , Cook Kristina M.
Published: July 2020

Humans have internal circadian clocks that ensure that important physiological functions occur at specific times of the day. These molecular clocks are regulated at the genomic level and exist in most cells of the body. Multiple circadian resetting cues have been identified, including light, temperature, and food. Recently, oxygen has been identified as a resetting cue, and emerging science indicates that this occurs through interactions at the cellular level between the circadian transcription-translation feedback loop and the hypoxia-inducible pathway (hypoxia-inducible factor; subject of the 2019 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine). This review will cover recently identified relationships between HIF and proteins of the circadian clock. Interactions between the circadian clock and hypoxia could have wide-reaching implications for human diseases, and understanding the molecular mechanisms regulating these overlapping pathways may open up new strategies for drug discovery.
Effects of type 1 diabetes on reflexive cardiovascular responses to intermittent muscle contraction
Authors: Grotle Ann-Katrin , Huo Yu , Harrison Michelle L. , Lee Junghoon , Ybarbo Kai M. , Stone Audrey J.
Published: July 2020

This is the first study to provide evidence that early-stage type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) leads to an exaggerated exercise pressor reflex evoked by intermittent muscle contraction, resulting in substantially higher cardiovascular strain. These findings are significant as they indicate that interventions targeting the exercise pressor reflex may work to alleviate the increased cardiovascular strain and overall burden during exercise in T1DM.
Motivations for a Career in Dentistry among Dental Students and Dental Interns in Kenya
Authors: Lukandu Ochiba M. , Koskei Lilian C. , Dimba Elizabeth O.
Published: July 2020

A number of factors have been cited as determinants for choosing a career in dentistry around the globe. The purpose of this study was to determine motivations for a career in dentistry among dental students and dental interns in Kenya. This was a cross-sectional study where 293 individuals participated by filling and returning self-administered questionnaires. The mean age of all respondents was 22.3 years. Overall, 59.5% of the respondents had selected dentistry as their preferred career at the end of high school. Majority (76.1%) of the respondents agreed that personal interest in dentistry was an important motivating factor for them. This was followed closely by a desire to help or serve people (74%), a desire for a flexible work schedule (63%), and an aspiration to be self-employed (61.8%). There was no difference between males and females regarding these as motivating factors. On the other hand, among factors that the respondents felt had the lowest influence on their choice of dentistry was parental influence, where only 22% of the respondents indicated that this was a motivating factor for them. Other potential motivating factors such as influence by friends and siblings (30.3%) as well as career talk and guidance (41.3%) were also ranked low. In general, the respondents indicated that they were motivated much more by personal and humanitarian factors, when compared to financial and societal factors.
Rapidly Fatal Postlaparoscopic Liver Infection from the Rarely Isolated Species Clostridium butyricum
Authors: Muldrew Kenneth L.
Published: July 2020

We report a case of a rapidly fatal postlaparoscopic cholecystectomy liver infection from the rarely isolated species Clostridium butyricum. Liver examination at autopsy showed cystic spaces, necrosis, and spore-forming Gram-positive rods. 16sRNA gene sequencing of the cystic liver tissue identified the organism as C. butyricum.
Significance of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in the Prophylaxis and Treatment after Spinal Cord Injury in Rodent Models
Authors: Wojdasiewicz Piotr , Poniatowski Łukasz A. , Turczyn Paweł , Frasuńska Justyna , Paradowska-Gorycka Agnieszka , Tarnacka Beata
Published: July 2020

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 acids, PUFAs) are essential components of cell membranes in all mammals. A multifactorial beneficial influence ofω-3 fatty acids on the health of humans and other mammals has been observed for many years. Therefore,ω-3 fatty acids and their function in the prophylaxis and treatment of various pathologies have been subjected to numerous studies. Regarding the documented therapeutic influence ofω-3 fatty acids on the nervous and immune systems, the aim of this paper is to present the current state of knowledge and the critical assessment of the role ofω-3 fatty acids in the prophylaxis and treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI) in rodent models. The prophylactic properties (pre-SCI) include the stabilization of neuron cell membranes, the reduction of the expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and KC/GRO/CINC), the improvement of local blood flow, reduced eicosanoid production, activation of protective intracellular transcription pathways (dependent on RXR, PPAR-α, Akt, and CREB), and increased concentration of lipids, glycogen, and oligosaccharides by neurons. On the other hand, the therapeutic properties (post-SCI) include the increased production of endogenous antioxidants such as carnosine and homocarnosine, the maintenance of elevated GSH concentrations at the site of injury, reduced concentrations of oxidative stress marker (MDA), autophagy improvement (via increasing the expression of LC3-II), and p38 MAPK expression reduction in the superficial dorsal horns (limiting the sensation of neuropathic pain). Paradoxically, despite the well-documented protective activity ofω-3 acids in rodents with SCI, the research does not offer an answer to the principal question of the optimal dose and treatment duration. Therefore, it is worth emphasizing the role of multicenter rodent studies with the implementation of standards which initially may even be based on arbitrary criteria. Additionally, basing on available research data, the authors of this paper make a careful attempt at referring some of the conclusions to the human population.
A Possibilistic Portfolio Model with Fuzzy Liquidity Constraint
Authors: Sui Yunyun , Hu Jiangshan , Ma Fang
Published: July 2020

Investors are concerned about the reliability and safety of their capital, especially its liquidity, when investing. This paper sets up a possibilistic portfolio selection model with liquidity constraint. In this model, the asset return and liquidity are fuzzy variables which follow the normal possibility distributions. Liquidity is measured as the turnover rate of the asset. On the basis of possibility theory, we transform the model into a quadratic programming problem to obtain its solution. We illustrate that, in the process of investment, investors can make better use of capital by choosing their investment portfolios according to their expected return and asset liquidity.
An Image Decomposition Fusion Method for Medical Images
Authors: Chang Lihong , Ma Wan , Jin Yu , Xu Li
Published: July 2020

A fusion method based on the cartoon+texture decomposition method and convolution sparse representation theory is proposed for medical images. It can be divided into three steps: firstly, the cartoon and texture parts are obtained using the improved cartoon-texture decomposition method. Secondly, the fusion rules of energy protection and feature extraction are used in the cartoon part, while the fusion method of convolution sparse representation is used in the texture part. Finally, the fused image is obtained using superimposing the fused cartoon and texture parts. Experiments show that the proposed algorithm is effective.
Assessment of Asthma Control and Quality of Life among Asthmatic Patients Attending Armed Forces Referral and Teaching Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Zeru Tesfalidet Gebremeskel , Engidawork Ephrem , Berha Alemseged Beyene
Published: July 2020

Background. The primary goal of asthma management is to achieve good asthma control. However, poor patient-physician communication, unavailability of appropriate medications, and lack of long-term goals have made asthma control difficult in developing countries. Poor assessment of asthma control and quality of life is a major cause of suboptimal asthma treatment worldwide, and information regarding this issue is scanty in developing countries like Ethiopia. This study thus attempted to assess the level of asthma control and quality of life in asthmatic patients attending Armed Forces Referral and Teaching Hospital. Methods. A cross-sectional study comprising 184 physician-diagnosed asthmatic patients was conducted using interview, chart review, and prescription assessment. Asthma control was assessed using Asthma Control Test, while asthma quality of life was assessed using Mini-Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (mini-AQLQ). Spearman’s rank correlation analysis was performed to understand the relationship between mean mini-AQLQ score and asthma control. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to establish cut-off values for mini-AQLQ. Results. Asthma was uncontrolled in 67.9% subjects. There was a strong correlation between asthma control and quality of life (rs=0.772; P<0.01). A cut-off value for the quality of life was established at 4.97. Majority of the patients were taking two or three antiasthmatic drugs. Oral tablet and inhaler short-acting beta agonists (SABA) were the frequently combined drugs. Uncontrolled asthma was associated with middle-aged adults (adjusted odds ratio AOR=6.31; 95% CI: 2.06, 19.3; P=0.001), male gender (AOR=0.38; 95% CI: 0.15, 0.98; P=0.044), married (AOR=0.24; 95% CI: 0.08, 0.78; P=0.017), comorbidities (AOR=0.23; 95% CI: 0.09, 0.61; P=0.003), and oral SABA use (AOR=0.22; 95% CI: 0.09, 0.59; P=0.003). Male gender (AOR=0.36; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.84; P=0.018), intermittent asthma (AOR=0.18; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.86; P=0.032), use of oral corticosteroids (AOR=0.22; 95% CI: 0.06, 0.73; P=0.013), and SABA (AOR=0.39; 95% CI: 0.17, 0.89; P=0.026) were found to have a significant association with poor asthma-related quality of life. Conclusion. The findings collectively indicate asthma remains poorly controlled in a large proportion of asthma patients in the study setting. Moreover, quality of life appears to be directly related to asthma control. Healthcare providers should therefore focus on asthma education with an integrated treatment plan to improve asthma control and quality of life.
Effects of Early MSC Intervention on Preventing the Streptozotocin-Induced T1DM Progression in Mice
Authors: Zha Lanlan , Li Xue , Meng Xiangyu , Liu Yuanlin , Liu Weijiang , Wang Yang , Fan Yue , Zhou Bin , Li Pei , Zheng Rongxiu , Zhang Yi
Published: July 2020

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is characterized by progressive pancreatic β-cells failure and progressive autoimmunity. It is difficult to diagnose T1DM and to prevent the pancreatic β-cells destruction because of the undetectable pancreatic β-cell necrosis and abnormal autoimmunity. Here, we built streptozotocin-induced T1DM mouse model and performed MSC injection at the early stage of T1DM. We found that MSC infusion displayed enhanced effects on reducing the pathological damage and improving the survival quality. Moreover, the delivery of MSCs inhibited Th1 cell polarization and downregulated the Th1 subset ratio. The immunomodulatory mechanism of MSC was further investigated. Real-time PCR and ELISA assays demonstrated that IFN-γ expression at both mRNA and protein level in MSC infusion T1DM mice was downregulated, partially regulated by MSC-exosome-derived miR-148a-3p. Taken together, this early therapeutic strategy may improve the clinical efficacy of MSC-based therapy in T1DM.
Eccentricity Parameters Identification for a Motorized Spindle System Based on Improved Maximum Likelihood Method
Authors: Mao Wengui , Hu Chaoliang , Li Jianhua , Huang Zhonghua , Liu Guiping
Published: July 2020

As a kind of rotor system, the electric spindle system is the core component of the precision grinding machine. The vibration caused by the mass imbalance is the main factor that causes the vibration of the grinding machine. Identifying the eccentricity parameters in an electric spindle system is a key issue in eliminating mass imbalances. It is difficult for engineers to understand the approximate range of eccentricity by experience; that is, it is difficult to obtain a priori information about eccentricity. At the same time, due to the geometric characteristics of the electrospindle system, the material factors and the randomness of the measurement response, these uncertain factors, even in a small case, are likely to cause large deviations in the eccentricity recognition results. The search algorithm used in the maximum likelihood method to identify the eccentricity parameters of the electrospindle system is computationally intensive, and the sensitivity in the iterative process brings some numerical problems. This paper introduces an Advance-Retreat Method (ARM) of the search interval to the maximum likelihood method, the unknown parameter increment obtained by the maximum likelihood method is used as the step size in the iteration, and the Advance-Retreat Method of the search interval is used to adjust the next design point so that the objective function value is gradually decreasing. The recognition results under the three kinds of measurement errors show that the improved maximum likelihood method improves the recognition effect of the maximum likelihood method and can reduce the influence of uncertainty factors on the recognition results, and the robustness is satisfactory.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress (ER Stress) and Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) Occur in a Rat Varicocele Testis Model
Authors: Hosseini Mahshid , Shaygannia Erfaneh , Rahmani Mohsen , Eskandari Anahita , Golsefid Aram Ahmadzadeh , Tavalaee Marziyeh , Gharagozloo Parviz , Drevet Joël R. , Nasr-Esfahani Mohammad H.
Published: July 2020

Using a surgically induced varicocele rat model, we show here strong evidence that the misfolded/unfolded protein response that is part of the stress response of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is activated in the varicocele testis (VCL), leading to the induction of apoptosis. To support this hypothesis, it is observed that the spliced variant of the X-box protein 1 (XBP1s), resulting from the activation of the inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1) membrane sensor, is significantly more represented in VCL testicular extracts. The activation of the IRE1/XBP1s pathway is also supported by the observation that the VCL testes show an increase phosphorylation of the c-Jun-kinase (JNK) known to be one intermediate of this pathway and an increased level of caspase-3, the terminal apoptotic effector, partly explaining the apoptotic status of the VCL testis.
Adaptive Inventory Control Based on Fuzzy Neural Network under Uncertain Environment
Authors: Ge Jianqiao , Zhang Songtao
Published: July 2020

In order to achieve the actual inventory effectively tracking the target inventory under uncertain environment, this paper investigates an adaptive inventory controller for the production-inventory system. First, an uncertain production-inventory model is constructed, and then, the uncertainty of the production-inventory model is approximated by a fuzzy neural network. Secondly, in terms of the design of adaptive control law, the adaptive inventory controller is developed. Under the adaptive inventory controller, the actual inventory can track the target inventory in real time and the production-inventory system can be robustly stable in uncertain environment. Finally, the results of three simulation experiments show that the proposed adaptive inventory controller can realize both the fast tracking speed and the high tracking accuracy.
Evaluation of New Film Based on Chitosan/Gold Nanocomposites on Antibacterial Property and Wound‐Healing Efficacy
Authors: Wang Kai , Wang Haosheng , Pan Su , Fu Chuan , Chang YuXin , Li Hongru , Yang Xiaoyu , Qi Zhiping
Published: July 2020

Chitosan (CS) is a natural polymer with applications in wound restorations and coatings for artificial implants. However, the lack of antimicrobial activity restricts its further application. Thus, the purpose of this study is to prepare CS/AuNPs film by adding gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to modify chitosan. Through transmission electron microscopy, we found that the presence of CS can effectively prevent the agglomeration of nanoparticles. Furthermore, through the CCK experiment, we found that AuNPs at a certain concentration can improve the adhesion and proliferation of cells, which has also been proved in animal experiments, including gross appearance, histological observations, and immunofluorescence staining. Such findings support the feasibility of using the film as a promising candidate for tissue engineering of skin in a near future.
Phloretin Modulates Human Th17/Treg Cell Differentiation In Vitro via AMPK Signaling
Authors: Jiao Ao , Yang Zhaoming , Fu Xibo , Hua Xiangdong
Published: July 2020

Context. The imbalance between T helper 17 (Th17) cell and regulatory T (Treg) cell is involved in many immune disorders and diseases. Phloretin, a dihydrochalcone structural flavonoid compound, possesses many bioactive properties. However, whether phloretin could impact on the differentiation of T cells is not completely clear. Objective. We conducted studies to explore the effect of phloretin on glucose uptake, proliferation, and differentiation of human peripheral blood CD4+ T cells and investigated the mechanism of phloretin on inducing Th17/Treg development. Methods. Naïve CD4+ T cells were purified from peripheral blood of healthy volunteers, stimulated with anti‐CD3/CD28 antibodies, and polarized in vitro to generate Th17 or Treg cells. Glucose uptake, proliferation, cell cycle, protein expression (phospho‐Stat3, phospho‐Stat5), and Th17 and Treg cell numbers were analyzed by flow cytometry. AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling was analyzed by western blot. Results and Discussion. Phloretin could inhibit the glucose uptake and proliferation of activated CD4+ T cells. The proliferation inhibition was due to the G0/G1 phase arrest. Phloretin decreased Th17 cell generation and phospho‐Stat3 expression as well as increased Treg cell generation and phospho‐Stat5 expression in the process of inducing Th17/Treg differentiation. The phosphorylation level of AMPK was significantly enhanced, while the phosphorylation level of mTOR was significantly decreased in activated CD4+ T cells under phloretin treatment. The AMPK signaling inhibitor compound C (Com C) could neutralize the effect of phloretin, while the agonist 5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR) could impact the Th17/Treg balance similar to phloretin during Th17/Treg induction. Conclusion. Our results suggest that phloretin can mediate the Th17/Treg balance by regulating metabolism via the AMPK signal pathway.
Explosion Resistance of Three-Dimensional Mesoscopic Model of Complex Closed-Cell Aluminum Foam Sandwich Structure Based on Random Generation Algorithm
Authors: Wang Zhen , Gu Wen Bin , Xie Xing Bo , Yuan Qi , Chen Yu Tian , Jiang Tao
Published: July 2020

According to the randomness of the spatial distribution and shape of the internal cells of closed-cell foam aluminum and based on the Voronoi algorithm, we use ABAQUS to model the random polyhedrons of pore cells firstly. Then, the algorithm of generating aluminum foam with random pore size and random wall thickness is written by Python and Fortran, and the mesh model of random polyhedral particles and random wall thickness was established by the algorithm read in by TrueGrid software. Finally, the mesh model is impo rted into the LS-DYNA software to remove the random polyhedron part of the pore cell. Compared with the results of scanning electron microscopy and antiknock test, the morphology and properties of the model are close to those of the real aluminum foam material, and the coincidence degree is more than 91.4%. By means of numerical simulation, the mechanism of the wall deformation, destruction of closed-cell aluminum foams, and the rapid attenuation of explosion stress wave after the interference of reflection and transmission of bubbles were studied and revealed. It is found that aluminum foam deformation can be divided into four areas: collapse area, fracture area, plastic deformation area, and elastic deformation region. Therefore, the explosion resistance is directly related to the cell wall thickness and bubble size, and there is an optimal porosity rule for aluminum foam antiknock performance.
Analysis of Motor Complication and Relative Factors in a Cohort of Chinese Patients with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Sun Baihua , Wang Tao , Li Nianying , Qiao Jin
Published: July 2020

Objective. Motor complications are common in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The reported occurrence of motor complications varies across regions and races. The aim of our study was to describe the development of dyskinesias and motor fluctuations among Chinese PD patients and the relative risk factors. Methods. In the current cross-sectional survey study, PD patients with motor fluctuations and dyskinesia were enrolled from March to November 2018 in Shaanxi province, a northwest area of China. Data were collected by the movement disorder specialists. A self-designed questionnaire was utilized during face-to-face interviews. In addition, the relevant factors of motor complications were analyzed by univariable and multivariable analyses. Results. Of the166 PD patients recruited, 52 (31.33%) and 25 (15.06%) patients had motor fluctuations and dyskinesia, respectively, which occurred in 6.76 ± 3.77 and 8.61 ± 4.46 years after the onset of motor symptoms and 5.37 ± 3.33 and 6.80 ± 3.43 years after the treatment of levodopa therapy, respectively. Patients with motor fluctuations and dyskinesias had longer disease duration, younger onset age, higher Hoehn–Yahr stages and UPDRS III scores, higher daily levodopa dosage and levodopa equivalent daily dose (LEDD), and longer duration of levodopa treatment (P<0.05). Bradykinesia-rigidity dominant patients had higher incidences of motor fluctuations (61.54% vs 38.46%) and dyskinesias (68.00% vs 32.00%) than tremor-dominant patients (P<0.05). Results of the multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that the duration of levodopa therapy, age of the onset, and bradykinesia-rigidity dominant type were independent risk factors of motor fluctuations (P<0.05). In addition, duration of disease and bradykinesia-rigidity dominant type were independent risk factors of dyskinesia (P<0.05). Conclusions. The rate of motor fluctuations was higher than dyskinesias in Chinese patients with Parkinson’s disease. Patients with younger age onset, bradykinesia-rigidity dominant type, longer disease duration, and longer duration of levodopa therapy are more likely to develop motor complications.
Biogenic Amines and Aflatoxins in Some Imported Meat Products: Incidence, Occurrence, and Public Health Impacts
Authors: Algahtani Fahad Dhafer , Morshdy Alaa Eldin , Hussein Mohamed A. , Abouelkheir Essam Said , Adeboye Adeniyi , Valentine Andrea , Elabbasy Mohamed Tharwat
Published: July 2020

Background. Since the beginning of humanity, the global burden of foodborne disease has had a decimating effect on populations, with biogenic amines (BAs) and aflatoxins in meat products implicated. While many developed countries have legitimized safety levels for BAs using evidence-based guidelines to attain high food quality standards for consumers of meat products, developing countries are still battling against poor food quality checking. Purpose. This study examines the level of health risk of biogenic amines and aflatoxin in meat products by extracting and estimating their residues and determining their indices as a way of monitoring the potential health impacts of these residues on consumers of meat products. Methods. A total of 40 imported meat products sampled and randomly collected, representing imported luncheon meat, hot dog sausages, corned beef, and minced meat. Using recommended laboratory protocols, eight residues of BAs and aflatoxins were extracted. Results. Eight BAs, histamine, tyramine, tryptamine, cadaverine, putrescine, β-phenyl ethylamine, spermine, and spermidine, were extracted and determined in all tested samples. Tyramine levels in luncheon meat were found to be significantly higher than in other meat products, while significantly high cadaverine levels were reported in corned beef samples. The results of biogenic amine index (BAI) revealed that the quality of imported minced meat and imported hot dog samples was good (BAI < 5 mg/kg), while imported luncheon meat and imported corned beef samples remained acceptable (BAI 5–20 mg/kg). Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) was detected higher than the permissible limit (>5 µg/kg) in imported luncheon meat and imported hot dog meat samples. Conclusion. The general results indicate that testing meat products for biogenic amines and aflatoxins is a very good indicator for monitoring the freshness and quality of meat products.
An Improved Real-Time R-Wave Detection Efficient Algorithm in Exercise ECG Signal Analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhou , Li Zeyu , Li Zhangyong
Published: July 2020

R-wave detection is a prerequisite for the extraction and recognition of ECG signal feature parameters. In the analysis and diagnosis of exercise electrocardiograms, accurate and real-time detection of QRS complexes is very important for the prevention and monitoring of heart disease. This paper proposes a lightweight R-wave real-time detection method for exercise ECG signals. After real-time denoising of the exercise ECG signal, the median line is used to correct the baseline, and the first-order difference processing is performed on the differential square signal. Max-Min Threshold (MMT) is used to realize real-time R-wave detection of the exercise ECG signal. The abovementioned method was verified by using the measured data in the MIT-BIH ECG database of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the exercise plate experiment. The R-wave detection rates were 99.93% and 99.98%, respectively. Experimental results show that this method has high accuracy and low computational complexity and is suitable for wearable devices and motion process monitoring.
Biochemical Composition of Propolis and Its Efficacy in Maintaining Postharvest Storability of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Authors: Kahramanoğlu İbrahim , Okatan Volkan , Wan Chunpeng
Published: July 2020

Propolis, also called “bee-glue,” is a natural resinous substance produced by honeybees from plant exudates, beeswax, and bee secretions in order to defend the hives. It has numerous phenolic compounds with more than 250 identified chemical compounds in its composition, which are also known to significantly vary according to the plant sources and season. Moreover, it has a long history in the traditional and scientific medicine as having antibacterial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-infective, and wound healing effects since 300 BC. In addition to its nutritional and health-promoting effects, it has been reported to improve the postharvest storability of fresh fruits, vegetables, and processed food products. Herein, the biochemical composition and the efficacy of propolis in maintaining the postharvest storability of fresh food products were discussed to provide comprehensive guide to farmers and food processing and storage sectors and to scientists. This review paper also highlights the important points to which special attention should be given in further studies in order to be able to use propolis to develop biopreservatives industrially and for quality preservation during storage.
Robust Estimation-Based Control Strategies for Induction Motors
Authors: Stîngă Florin , Marian Marius , Selișteanu Dan
Published: July 2020

This work proposes a realistic solution to the control problem of sensorless induction motors. Due to some important aspects related to their construction and reliability, the induction motors are extensively used in many modern industrial applications. Considering that the system is facing the lack of hardware sensors, the proposed complex control strategies are based on the estimation of unavailable system variables and parameters. In order to control the rotor speed, two robust control strategies are proposed: a modified super-twisting adaptive technique and a model predictive technique. The tests performed under several practical assumptions show that the closed loop behaviour of the system is adequate, and the output variable follows the imposed time varying reference, despite the considered uncertainties and disturbances acting on the process.
Synthesis of Graphene Oxide-Polystyrene Graft Polymer Based on Reversible Addition Fragmentation Chain Transfer and Its Effect on Properties, Crystallization, and Rheological Behavior of Poly (Lactic Acid)
Authors: Yang Li , Zhen Weijun
Published: July 2020

Graphene oxide-polystyrene graft polymer (SGO-PS) was prepared by reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer radical polymerization method. Orthogonal experiments indicated that the optimum synthesis reaction conditions for SGO-PS were as follows: the millimole ratio of chain transfer agent to initiator was 0.15 : 0.3, and the amount of styrene was 8 mL at 80°C for 12 hours. The products were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermal weightlessness analysis, and the highest grafting rate of SGO-PS was 62.46%. Then, PLA/SGO-PS nanocomposites were prepared using SGO-PS as fillers by melt intercalation method, and its crystallinity, mechanical properties, and thermal stability were significantly improved. Compared with pure PLA, the crystallinity of PLA/SGO-PS (0.3 wt%) nanocomposites was increased by 5 times. Multiple melting behavior tests showed that the introduction of SGO-PS caused the PLA molecular chain to be discharged into the unit cell in time, and the melting temperature shifted to a higher temperature, which ultimately made the grain structure of PLA composites more complete and stable than pure PLA. The rheological performance test showed that the uniform dispersion of SGO-PS in the PLA matrix inhibited the free movement of the PLA molecular chain and caused higher flow resistance, resulting in an increase in the complex viscosity, storage modulus, and loss modulus of PLA/SGO-PS.
A Radiomics Model for Predicting the Response to Bevacizumab in Brain Necrosis after Radiotherapy
Authors: Cai Jinhua , Zheng Junjiong , Shen Jun , Yuan Zhiyong , Xie Mingwei , Gao Miaomiao , Tan Hongqi , Liang Zhongguo , Rong Xiaoming , Li Yi , Li Honghong , Jiang Jingru , Zhao Huiying , Argyriou Andreas A. , Chua Melvin L.K. , Tang Yamei
Published: July 2020

Purpose:

Bevacizumab is considered a promising therapy for brain necrosis after radiotherapy, while some patients fail to derive benefit or even worsen. Hence, we developed and validated a radiomics model for predicting the response to bevacizumab in patients with brain necrosis after radiotherapy.

Experimental Design:

A total of 149 patients (with 194 brain lesions; 101, 51, and 42 in the training, internal, and external validation sets, respectively) receiving bevacizumab were enrolled. In total, 1,301 radiomic features were extracted from the pretreatment MRI images of each lesion. In the training set, a radiomics signature was constructed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was then used to develop a radiomics model incorporated in the radiomics signature and independent clinical predictors. The performance of the model was assessed by its discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness with internal and external validation.

Results:

The radiomics signature consisted of 18 selected features and showed good discrimination performance. The model, which integrates the radiomics signature, the interval between radiotherapy and diagnosis of brain necrosis, and the interval between diagnosis of brain necrosis and treatment with bevacizumab, showed favorable calibration and discrimination in the training set (AUC 0.916). These findings were confirmed in the validation sets (AUC 0.912 and 0.827, respectively). Decision curve analysis confirmed the clinical utility of the model.

Conclusions:

The presented radiomics model, available as an online calculator, can serve as a user-friendly tool for individualized prediction of the response to bevacizumab in patients with brain necrosis after radiotherapy.
Periodontal Disease, Tooth Loss, and Risk of Serrated Polyps and Conventional Adenomas
Authors: Lo Chun-Han , Nguyen Long H. , Wu Kana , Ogino Shuji , Chan Andrew T. , Giovannucci Edward L. , Song Mingyang
Published: July 2020

Growing data indicate an association between periodontal disease and the development of cancer. However, the evidence for colorectal cancer has been inconsistent and longitudinal study examining its precursor lesions is lacking. We prospectively collected information on periodontal disease and number of tooth loss in the Nurses' Health Study (1992–2002) and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (1992–2010). Polyp diagnosis was acquired via self-reported questionnaires and confirmed through review of medical records. We used logistic regression to calculate the multivariate-adjusted ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) with adjustment for smoking and other known risk factors for periodontal disease and colorectal cancer. In this study, we included 17,904 women and 24,582 men. We documented 2,336 cases of serrated polyps and 4,102 cases of conventional adenomas among 84,714 person-endoscopies throughout follow-up. The ORs of serrated polyps and conventional adenomas comparing individuals with and without periodontal disease were 1.17 (95% CI, 1.06–1.29) and 1.11 (95% CI, 1.02–1.19), respectively. Compared with participants without tooth loss, those who lost ≥4 teeth had 20% (OR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.03–1.39) greater risk of serrated polyps (Ptrend 0.01). Among never smokers, similar associations with periodontal disease were observed for both serrated polyps (OR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.02–1.41) and conventional adenomas (OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.00–1.26). History of periodontal disease and possibly higher number of tooth loss may modestly increase the risk of developing colorectal precursor lesions. Our findings advance our understanding of the interplay between oral health, microbiome, and early colorectal carcinogenesis.
Stakeholder Perspectives on Overcoming Barriers to Cascade Testing in Lynch Syndrome: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Srinivasan Swetha , Hampel Heather , Leeman Jennifer , Patel Amit , Kulchak Rahm Alanna , Reuland Daniel S. , Roberts Megan C.
Published: July 2020

Cascade testing (i.e., genetic testing of family members of individuals with disease) among families affected by hereditary cancer disorders, such as Lynch syndrome, is suboptimal and thus represents a missed opportunity in cancer prevention. We aimed to fill a gap in the literature by exploring multilevel barriers and facilitators to the implementation of cascade testing for Lynch syndrome. We conducted semistructured, in-depth interviews guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research and the Integrated Behavioral Model among key stakeholders (n = 60): Patients with Lynch syndrome and relatives (n = 20), providers (n = 20), and administrators (n = 20). Transcripts were double-coded (20% sample) using template analysis in ATLAS.ti. Barriers identified included (i) low awareness about Lynch syndrome, (ii) psychosocial barriers, (iii) lack of provider follow-up, (iv) accessibility to genetic counseling, and (v) fear of discrimination. Facilitators included (i) motivation to engage in cascade testing and (ii) free genetic testing offered to relatives. Stakeholders also recommended strategies to overcome implementation barriers in the short-term (increasing education, preparing patients for communicating with relatives), medium-term (optimizing clinical workflow and staffing resources), and long-term (nationwide standardization). These findings indicate that modifiable, multilevel barriers to the implementation of cascade testing in Lynch syndrome are experienced across stakeholders. Understanding and targeting implementation barriers is imperative to achieving public health impact of precision health interventions such as cascade testing.
A Comprehensive Review and Perspective on Anticancer Mechanisms of Withaferin A in Breast Cancer
Authors: Hahm Eun-Ryeong , Kim Su-Hyeong , Singh Krishna B. , Singh Kamayani , Singh Shivendra V.
Published: July 2020

Withaferin A (hereafter abbreviated as WA) is a promising anticancer steroidal lactone abundant in a medicinal plant (Withania somnifera) native to Asia. The root/leaf extract of Withania somnifera, which belongs to the Solanaceae family, continues to be included in the Ayurvedic medicine formulations of alternative medicine practice. Numerous chemicals are detectable in the root/leaf extract of Withania somnifera [e.g., withanolides (WA, withanone, withanolide A, etc.), alkaloids, sitoindosides, etc.], but the anticancer effect of this medicinal plant is largely attributed to WA. Anticancer effect of WA was initially reported in the early 70s in the Ehrlich ascites tumor cell model in vitro. Since then, numerous preclinical studies have been performed using cellular and animal models of different cancers including breast cancer to determine cancer therapeutic and chemopreventive effects of WA. Chemoprevention, a word first introduced by Dr. Michael B. Sporn, was intended to impede, arrest, or reverse carcinogenesis at its earliest stages with pharmacologic agents. This review succinctly summarizes the published findings on anticancer pharmacology of WA in breast cancer focusing on pharmacokinetic behavior, in vivo efficacy data in preclinical models in a therapeutic and chemoprevention settings, and its known effects on cancer-relevant cellular processes (e.g., growth arrest, apoptosis induction, autophagy, metabolic adaptation, immune function, etc.) and molecular targets (e.g., suppression of oncogenes such as estrogen receptor-α, STAT3, etc.). Potential gaps in knowledge as well as future research directions essential for clinical development of WA for chemoprevention and/or treatment of breast cancer are also discussed.
Effects of LCZ696 (Sacubitril/Valsartan) on Blood Pressure in Patients with Hypertension: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Geng Qiang , Yan Rongqiang , Wang Zhengzhong , Hou Fangjie
Published: July 2020

Background: LCZ696 (sacubitril/valsartan), a ﬁrst-in-class angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor, can significantly reduce blood pressure in patients with heart failure. We performed this meta-analysis to determine the antihypertensive effect of LCZ696 in patients with hypertension. Methods: Randomized controlled trials were searched in MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, and Clinicaltrials.gov. Twelve studies with a total of 6,064 participants were included. Results: Compared with angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), LCZ696 100 mg caused a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) (mean difference [MD] –1.58 mm Hg, 95% confidence interval [CI] –2.09 to –1.07, p < 0.05) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (MD –0.66 mm Hg, 95% CI –0.98 to –0.33, p < 0.05). LCZ696 200 mg caused a significant reduction in SBP (MD –4.94 mm Hg, 95% CI –6.54 to –3.35, p < 0.05), DBP (MD –2.24 mm Hg, 95% CI –2.74 to –1.75, p < 0.05), 24-h ambulatory SBP (24 h ASBP; MD –3.69 mm Hg, 95% CI –4.80 to –2.58, p < 0.05), and 24-h ADBP (MD –1.71 mm Hg, 95% CI –2.13 to –1.28, p < 0.05). LCZ696 400 mg caused a significant reduction in SBP (MD –6.25 mm Hg, 95% CI –7.90 to –4.61, p < 0.05), DBP (MD -2.30 mm Hg, 95% CI –2.80 to –1.80, p < 0.05), 24-h ASBP (MD –4.31 mm Hg, 95% CI –6.56 to –2.07, p < 0.05), and 24 h ADBP (MD –1.69 mm Hg, 95% CI –2.59 to –0.79, p < 0.05). Compared with LCZ696 200 mg, LCZ696 400 mg caused a significant reduction in SBP (MD 1.71 mm Hg, 95% CI 1.15 to 2.27, p < 0.05), DBP (MD 0.90 mm Hg, 95% CI 0.65 to 1.16, p < 0.05), 24-h ASBP (MD 1.50 mm Hg, 95% CI 0.84 to 2.17, p < 0.05), and 24-h ADBP (MD 0.76 mm Hg, 95% CI 0.47 to 1.06, p < 0.05). Conclusions: The blood pressure-lowering effect of LCZ696 is dose-related. This meta-analysis confirms the antihypertensive effects of LCZ696.