bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Exploration and Confirmation of the Factors Influencing Adoption of IoT-Based Wearable Fitness Trackers
Authors: Kao Yu-Sheng , Nawata Kazumitsu , Huang Chi-Yo
Published: September 2019

In recent years, IoT (Internet of Things)-based smart devices have penetrated a wide range of markets, including connected health, smart home, and wearable devices. Among the IoT-based smart devices, wearable fitness trackers are the most widely diffused and adopted IoT based devices. Such devices can monitor or track the physical activity of the person wearing them. Although society has benefitted from the conveniences provided by IoT-based wearable fitness trackers, few studies have explored the factors influencing the adoption of such technology. Furthermore, one of the most prevalent issues nowadays is the large attrition rate of consumers no longer wearing their device. Consequently, this article aims to define an analytic framework that can be used to explore the factors that influence the adoption of IoT-based wearable fitness trackers. In this article, the constructs for evaluating these factors will be explored by reviewing extant studies and theories. Then, these constructs are further evaluated based on experts’ consensus using the modified Delphi method. Based on the opinions of experts, the analytic framework for deriving an influence relationship map (IRM) is derived using the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL). Finally, based on the IRM, the behaviors adopted by mass customers toward IoT-based wearable fitness trackers are confirmed using the partial least squares (PLS) structural equation model (SEM) approach. The proposed analytic framework that integrates the DEMATEL and PLS-SEM was verified as being a feasible research area by empirical validation that was based on opinions provided by both Taiwanese experts and mass customers. The proposed analytic method can be used in future studies of technology marketing and consumer behaviors.
Socioeconomic Inequalities in the HIV Testing during Antenatal Care in Vietnamese Women
Authors: Chu Dinh-Toi , Vo Hoang-Long , Tran Dang-Khoa , Nguyen Si Anh Hao , Bao Hoang Long , Tran Nhu Phong , Nguyen Ngoc Khanh , Thu Nguyen Trang , Pham Van Quyet , Tien Nguyen Le Bao , Thanh Vo Van , Nga Vu Thi , Luu Quang Thuy , Minh Le Bui , Pham Van Huy
Published: September 2019

Although HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) testing for all women has been promoted by Vietnam’s Ministry of Health since 2000, test acceptance rates in this country were reported to be less than 30% in the community. This country has been facing the barriers to approach the national services towards transmission prevention from mother to child including HIV testing during antenatal care (ANC) towards mothers. Here, we aim to assess the socioeconomic inequalities in HIV testing during ANC among Vietnamese women. This study used available data from the Vietnam Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2014. Overall, the prevalence of HIV testing during antenatal care was 30% and the concentrate index (CCI) was 0.1926. There was significant inequality between women classified as poor and rich, and when stratified by social characteristics, inequality was found in women aged 15–49 years (CCI: 0.4), living in rural areas (CCI: 0.3), belonging to ethnic minorities (CCI: 0.5) and having primary or less education (CCI: 0.4). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, ethnicity and socioeconomic status were significant factors associated with HIV testing during ANC. We found the prevalence of HIV testing during ANC was low, and its inequalities were associated with age, living area, ethnicity, education, and economic status.
Health Risk Assessment of Groundwater Contaminated by Oil Pollutants Based on Numerical Modeling
Authors: Bai Xue , Song Kai , Liu Jian , Mohamed Adam Khalifa , Mou Chenya , Liu Dan
Published: September 2019

To provide theoretical support for the protection of dispersed drinking water sources of groundwater, we need to accurately evaluate the time and scope of groundwater pollution hazards to human health. This helps the decision-making process for remediation of polluted soil and groundwater in service stations. In this study, we conducted such an evaluation by coupling numerical modeling with a health risk assessment. During the research, soil and groundwater samples were collected and analyzed for 20 pollutants. Fifty-six percent of the heavy contaminants and 100% of the organic contaminants exhibited maximum values at the location of the oil depot. Gray correlation analysis showed that the correlation between background samples and soil underlying the depot was 0.375–0.567 (barely significant to insignificant). The correlation between the reference sequence of other points was 0.950–0.990 (excellent correlation). The correlation of environmental impact after oil depot leakage followed the order: organic pollutants > heavy metals > inorganic pollutants. The groundwater simulation status and predictions indicated that non-carcinogenic health risks covered 25,462 m2 at the time of investigation, and were predicted to extend to 29,593 m2 after five years and to 39,873 m2 after 10 years. Carcinogenic health risks covered 21,390 m2 at the time of investigation, and were predicted to extend to 40,093 m2 after five years and to 53,488 m2 after 10 years. This study provides theoretical support for the protection of a dispersed drinking water source such as groundwater, and also helps the decision-making process for groundwater and soil environment improvement.
A Randomized Controlled Trial on the Effects of Electromyographic Biofeedback on Quality of Life and Bowel Symptoms in Elderly Women With Dyssynergic Defecation
Authors: Simón Miguel A. , Bueno Ana M. , Otero Patricia , Vázquez Fernando L. , Blanco Vanessa
Published: September 2019

Dyssynergic defecation is a usual cause of chronic constipation in elderly women, with a negative impact on health-related quality of life. The present randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effects of behavioral treatment through electromyographic biofeedback (EMG-BF) on quality of life and bowel symptoms in elderly women with dyssynergic defecation. Twenty chronically constipated elderly women, due to dyssynergic defecation, were enrolled in the study. Outcome measures included weekly stool frequency, anismus index, severity of patient-reported chronic constipation symptoms (abdominal, rectal, and stool symptoms), and overall measure of quality of life. After 1 month of baseline, participants were randomly assigned to either EMG-BF group (n = 10) or control group (n = 10). Three months after treatment, female patients were once again assessed following the same procedure in baseline. One-way multivariate analysis of variance MANOVA revealed no significant differences between the groups before treatment in any of the measured dependent variables (Wilks’s λ = 0.74; F6,13 = 0.77; p = 0.61). Likewise, univariate analysis showed no differences between the groups, either in terms of age (F1,18 = 0.96; p = 0.34) or mean disease duration (F1,18 = 2.99; p = 0.11). Three months after treatment, MANOVA revealed statistically significant differences between the groups (Wilks’s λ = 0.29; F6,13 = 5.19; p < 0.01). These differences were significant in all outcome measures. EMG-BF produces significant improvements in bowel symptoms and health-related quality of life of elderly women with dyssynergic defecation.
The Most Effective Amount of Forward Movement for Oral Appliances for Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sakamoto Yuki , Furuhashi Akifumi , Komori Eri , Ishiyama Hiroyuki , Hasebe Daichi , Sato Kazumichi , Yuasa Hidemichi
Published: September 2019

This systematic review clarifies the amount of effective protrusion in mandibular advancement devices of oral appliances required for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The systematic review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Review Manager 5 and GRADEpro were used to combine trials and analyze data. The present review included three studies. In mild to moderate OSA cases, measured using the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI), 50% protrusion was more effective than 75% protrusion. However, 75% protrusion was more effective for severe cases. Sleep stage, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), snoring index, and side effects significantly differed between the groups. Additionally, 75% protrusion was more effective (AHI: 0.38, 95% CI: −0.89 to 1.65, p = 0.56; sleep stage 3: −1.20, 95% CI: 9.54–7.14, p = 0.78; ESS: 1.07, 95% CI: −0.09 to 2.24, p = 0.07; snoring index: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.05–0.13, p < 0.05; side effects: RR: 1.89, 95% CI: 0.36–9.92, p = 0.45). As per the AHI, 75% protrusion was effective in severe cases, whereas 50% protrusion was effective in moderate cases. Analysis of different surrogate outcomes indicated that 75% protrusion was more effective. Further, well-designed, larger trials should determine the benefits for patients. Additionally, investigations of adherence and side effects with long-term follow-up are needed.
Emotional Exhaustion in Housewives and Alzheimer Patients’ Caregivers: Its Effects on Chronic Diseases, Somatic Symptoms and Social Dysfunction
Authors: Campos-Puente Alina de las Mercedes , Avargues-Navarro María Luisa , Borda-Mas Mercedes , Sánchez-Martín Milagrosa , Aguilar-Parra José M. , Trigueros Rubén
Published: September 2019

Background: Emotional exhaustion causes adverse effects in those who suffer from it. Housewives are not excluded. Domestic and care chores, which are considered to be sources of stress, increase when taking on the role of caregiver for a family member with Alzheimer’s disease. Objective: To analyse the influence of emotional exhaustion, somatic symptoms and social dysfunction, based on the activity they carry out. Methodology: Cross-sectional survey. 193 women participated, of which: housewives (HWs) (n = 97), and Alzheimer’s patient caregiver-housewives (CHWs) (n = 96). The evaluation tools were: sociodemographic/working data questionnaire (ad hoc), Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and Goldberg General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). Results: High rates of emotional exhaustion are observed, as well as an existing positive link between chronic diseases, somatic symptoms and social dysfunction. The structural model indicates that emotional exhaustion predicts the amount and extent of diseases, somatic symptoms and social dysfunction. The influence is higher in CHWs. Limitations: Sample procedure implemented at convenience; the variable of the grade of dependence of the Alzheimer’s patient caregiver was not included in the study. Conclusions: The domestic and care chores that HWs and CHWs carry out affect their health. Hence the need to develop psychoeducative programmes that are adapted to the particular needs of these women and focused on the different areas of their everyday lives.
The Role of Momordica charantia in Resisting Obesity
Authors: Fan Meiqi , Kim Eun-Kyung , Choi Young-Jin , Tang Yujiao , Moon Sang-Ho
Published: September 2019

Momordica charantia (M. charantia), commonly known as bitter gourd, bitter melon, kugua, balsam pear, or karela, is a tropical and sub-tropical vine belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. It has been used to treat a variety of diseases in the traditional medicine of China, India, and Sri Lanka. Here, we review the anti-obesity effects of various bioactive components of M. charantia established at the cellular and organismal level. We aim to provide links between various bioactive components of M. charantia and their anti-obesity mechanism. An advanced search was conducted on the worldwide accepted scientific databases via electronic search (Google Scholar, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, ACS Publications, PubMed, Wiley Online Library, SciFinder, CNKI) database with the query TS = “Momordica charantia” and “obesity”. Information was also obtained from International Plant Names Index, Chinese Pharmacopoeia, Chinese herbal classic books, online databases, PhD and MSc dissertations, etc. First, studies showing the anti-obesity effects of M. charantia on the cells and on animals were classified. The major bioactive components that showed anti-obesity activities included proteins, triterpenoids, saponins, phenolics, and conjugated linolenic acids. Their mechanisms included inhibition of fat synthesis, promotion of glucose utilization, and stimulation of auxiliary lipid-lowering activity. Finally, we summarized the risks of excessive consumption of M. charantia and the application. Although further research is necessary to explore various issues, this review establishes the therapeutic potential of M. charantia and it is highly promising candidate for the development of anti-obesity health products and medicines.
A Correlational Analysis of the Relationships among Intolerance of Uncertainty, Anxiety Sensitivity, Subjective Sleep Quality, and Insomnia Symptoms
Authors: Lauriola Marco , Carleton R. Nicholas , Tempesta Daniela , Calanna Pierpaolo , Socci Valentina , Mosca Oriana , Salfi Federico , De Gennaro Luigi , Ferrara Michele
Published: September 2019

In this study, we used structural equation modeling to investigate the interplay among Intolerance of Uncertainty (IU), Anxiety Sensitivity (AS), and sleep problems. Three hundred undergraduate students completed the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale, the Intolerance of Uncertainty Inventory, the Anxiety Sensitivity Index, the Beck Depression Inventory, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Insomnia Severity Index. 68% and 40% of the students reported poor sleep quality or sub-threshold insomnia problems, respectively. Depression and anxiety levels were above the cut-off for about one-fourth of the participants. Structural equation modeling revealed that IU was strongly associated with AS, in turn influencing both insomnia severity and sleep quality via depression and anxiety. Significant indirect effects revealed that an anxious pathway was more strongly associated with insomnia severity, while a depression pathway was more relevant for worsening the quality of sleep. We discussed the results in the frameworks of cognitive models of insomnia. Viewing AS and IU as antecedents of sleep problems and assigning to AS a pivotal role, our study suggested indications for clinical interventions on a population at risk for sleep disorders.
Communicating Risk for a Climate-Sensitive Disease: A Case Study of Valley Fever in Central California
Authors: Matlock Melissa , Hopfer Suellen , Ogunseitan Oladele A.
Published: September 2019

Valley Fever, or Coccidioidomycosis, a fungal respiratory disease, is prevalent with increasing incidence in the Southwestern United States, especially in the central region of California. Public health agencies in the region do not have a consistent strategy for communication and health promotion targeting vulnerable communities about this climate-sensitive disease. We used the behavior adaptation communication model to design and conduct semi-structured interviews with representatives of public health agencies in five California counties: Fresno, Kern, Kings, San Luis Obispo, and Tulare County. While none of the agencies currently include climate change information into their Valley Fever risk messaging, the agencies discuss future communication methods similar to other health risk factors such as poor air quality days and influenza virus season. For political reasons, some public health agencies deliberately avoided the use of climate change language in communicating health risk factors to farmers who are particularly vulnerable to soil and dust-borne fungal spores. The effectiveness of health communication activities of the public health agencies has not been measured in reducing the prevalence of Valley Fever in impacted communities. Given the transboundary nature of climate influence on Valley Fever risk, a concerted and consistent health communication strategy is expected to be more effective than current practices.
Flood- and Weather-Damaged Homes and Mental Health: An Analysis Using England’s Mental Health Survey
Authors: Graham Hilary , White Piran , Cotton Jacqui , McManus Sally
Published: September 2019

There is increasing evidence that exposure to weather-related hazards like storms and floods adversely affects mental health. However, evidence of treated and untreated mental disorders based on diagnostic criteria for the general population is limited. We analysed the Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey, a large probability sample survey of adults in England (n = 7525), that provides the only national data on the prevalence of mental disorders assessed to diagnostic criteria. The most recent survey (2014–2015) asked participants if they had experienced damage to their home (due to wind, rain, snow or flood) in the six months prior to interview, a period that included months of unprecedented population exposure to flooding, particularly in Southern England. One in twenty (4.5%) reported living in a storm- or flood-damaged home in the previous six months. Social advantage (home ownership, higher household income) increased the odds of exposure to storm or flood damage. Exposure predicted having a common mental disorder over and above the effects of other known predictors of poor mental health. With climate change increasing the frequency and severity of storms and flooding, improving community resilience and disaster preparedness is a priority. Evidence on the mental health of exposed populations is key to building this capacity.
Classification of Areas Suitable for Fish Farming Using Geotechnology and Multi-Criteria Analysis
Authors: Francisco Humberto Rodrigues , Fabrício Corrêia Arlindo , Feiden Aldi
Published: September 2019

This study proposed a method for identifying areas appropriate for fish farming in ground-excavated ponds using data obtained from public institutions. The method was applied to three cities located in the central-southern region of Paraná State, Brazil. In order to select appropriate areas, a geographic information system (GIS) was created using data from a digital elevation model (DEM), as well as data on soil occupation and type. A variable reclassification model (VRM) was created, and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method was applied to establish weights for a multi-criteria assessment of the factors. Non-classifiable areas and areas with constraints were identified and removed from the analysis. The sites classified as highly suitable or suitable represented 33.270.79 ha (18.71% of the total area), while the restricted areas represented 54,427.91 ha (30.60% of the total area). This method may represent a useful tool for decision making in the context of regional planning and may be used in the establishment of public policy and in the allocation of resources for aquaculture development.
Clinical Trials with Combination of Cytokine-Induced Killer Cells and Dendritic Cells for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Garofano Francesca , Gonzalez-Carmona Maria A. , Skowasch Dirk , Schmidt-Wolf Roland , Abramian Alina , Hauser Stefan , Strassburg Christian P. , Schmidt-Wolf Ingo G. H.
Published: September 2019

Adoptive cellular immunotherapy (ACI) is a promising treatment for a number of cancers. Cytokine-induced killer cells (CIKs) are considered to be major cytotoxic immunologic effector cells. Usually cancer cells are able to suppress antitumor responses by secreting immunosuppressive factors. CIKs have significant antitumor activity and are capable of eradicating tumors with few side effects. They are a very encouraging cell population used against hematological and solid tumors, with an inexpensive expansion protocol which could yield to superior clinical outcome in clinical trials employing adoptive cellular therapy combination. In the last decade, clinical protocols have been modified by enriching lymphocytes with CIK cells. They are a subpopulation of lymphocytes characterized by the expression of CD3+ and CD56+ wich are surface markers common to T lymphocytes and natural killer NK cells. CIK cells are mainly used in two diseases: in hematological patients who suffer relapse after allogeneic transplantation and in patients with hepatic carcinoma after surgical ablation to eliminate residual tumor cells. Dendritic cells DCs could play a pivotal role in enhancing the antitumor efficacy of CIKs.
The Janus Face of Tumor Microenvironment Targeted by Immunotherapy
Authors: Buoncervello Maria , Gabriele Lucia , Toschi Elena
Published: September 2019

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex entity where host immune and non-immune cells establish a dynamic crosstalk with cancer cells. Through cell-cell interactions, which are mediated by key signals, such as the PD-1/PD-L1 axis, as well as the release of soluble mediators, this articulated process defines the nature of TME determining tumor development, prognosis, and response to therapy. Specifically, tumors are characterized by cellular plasticity that allows for the microenvironment to polarize towards inflammation or immunosuppression. Thus, the dynamic crosstalk among cancer, stromal, and immune components crucially favors the dominance of one of the Janus-faced contexture of TME crucial to the outcome of tumor development and therapeutic response. However, mostly, TME is dominated by an immunosuppressive landscape that blocks antitumor immunity and sustain tumor progression. Hence, in most cases, the immunosuppressive components of TME are highly competent in suppressing tumor-specific CD8+ T lymphocytes, the effectors of cancer destruction. In this complex context, immunotherapy aims to arm the hidden Janus face of TME disclosing and potentiating antitumor immune signals. Herein, we discuss recent knowledge on the immunosuppressive crosstalk within TME, and share perspectives on how immunotherapeutic approaches may exploit tumor immune signals to generate antitumor immunity.
Multi-Staged Regulation of Lipid Signaling Mediators during Myogenesis by COX-1/2 Pathways
Authors: Mo Chenglin , Wang Zhiying , Bonewald Lynda , Brotto Marco
Published: September 2019

Cyclooxygenases (COXs), including COX-1 and -2, are enzymes essential for lipid mediator (LMs) syntheses from arachidonic acid (AA), such as prostaglandins (PGs). Furthermore, COXs could interplay with other enzymes such as lipoxygenases (LOXs) and cytochrome P450s (CYPs) to regulate the signaling of LMs. In this study, to comprehensively analyze the function of COX-1 and -2 in regulating the signaling of bioactive LMs in skeletal muscle, mouse primary myoblasts and C2C12 cells were transfected with specific COX-1 and -2 siRNAs, followed by targeted lipidomic analysis and customized quantitative PCR gene array analysis. Knocking down COXs, particularly COX-1, significantly reduced the release of PGs from muscle cells, especially PGE2 and PGF2α, as well as oleoylethanolamide (OEA) and arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA). Moreover, COXs could interplay with LOXs to regulate the signaling of hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETEs). The changes in LMs are associated with the expression of genes, such as Itrp1 (calcium signaling) and Myh7 (myogenic differentiation), in skeletal muscle. In conclusion, both COX-1 and -2 contribute to LMs production during myogenesis in vitro, and COXs could interact with LOXs during this process. These interactions and the fine-tuning of the levels of these LMs are most likely important for skeletal muscle myogenesis, and potentially, muscle repair and regeneration.
Nitric Oxide Is Involved in Heavy Ion-Induced Non-Targeted Effects in Human Fibroblasts
Authors: Hada Megumi , Saganti Premkumar B. , Cucinotta Francis A.
Published: September 2019

Previously, we investigated the dose response for chromosomal aberration (CA) for exposures corresponding to less than one particle traversal per cell nucleus by high energy and charge (HZE) particles, and showed that the dose responses for simple exchanges for human fibroblast irradiated under confluent culture conditions were best fit by non-linear models motivated by a non-targeted effect (NTE). Our results suggested that the simple exchanges in normal human fibroblasts have an important NTE contribution at low particle fluence. Nitric oxide (NO) has been reported as a candidate for intercellular signaling for NTE in many studies. In order to estimate the contribution of NTE components in induced CA, we measured CA with and without an NO scavenger in normal skin fibroblasts cells after exposure to 600 MeV/u and 1 GeV/u 56Fe ions, less than one direct particle traversal per cell nucleus. Yields of CA were significantly lower in fibroblasts exposed to the NO scavenger compared to controls, suggesting involvement of NO in cell signaling for induction of CA. Media transferred from irradiated cells induced CA in non-irradiated cells, and this effect was abrogated with NO scavengers. Our results strongly support the importance of NTE contributions in the formation of CA at low-particle fluence in fibroblasts.
Differing Membrane Interactions of Two Highly Similar Drug-Metabolizing Cytochrome P450 Isoforms: CYP 2C9 and CYP 2C19
Authors: Mustafa Ghulam , Nandekar Prajwal P. , Bruce Neil J. , Wade Rebecca C.
Published: September 2019

The human cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 and 2C19 enzymes are two highly similar isoforms with key roles in drug metabolism. They are anchored to the endoplasmic reticulum membrane by their N-terminal transmembrane helix and interactions of their cytoplasmic globular domain with the membrane. However, their crystal structures were determined after N-terminal truncation and mutating residues in the globular domain that contact the membrane. Therefore, the CYP-membrane interactions are not structurally well-characterized and their dynamics and the influence of membrane interactions on CYP function are not well understood. We describe herein the modeling and simulation of CYP 2C9 and CYP 2C19 in a phospholipid bilayer. The simulations revealed that, despite high sequence conservation, the small sequence and structural differences between the two isoforms altered the interactions and orientations of the CYPs in the membrane bilayer. We identified residues (including K72, P73, and I99 in CYP 2C9 and E72, R73, and H99 in CYP 2C19) at the protein-membrane interface that contribute not only to the differing orientations adopted by the two isoforms in the membrane, but also to their differing substrate specificities by affecting the substrate access tunnels. Our findings provide a mechanistic interpretation of experimentally observed effects of mutagenesis on substrate selectivity.
Systematic Identification of Characteristic Genes of Ovarian Clear Cell Carcinoma Compared with High-Grade Serous Carcinoma Based on RNA-Sequencing
Authors: Nagasawa Saya , Ikeda Kazuhiro , Horie-Inoue Kuniko , Sato Sho , Itakura Atsuo , Takeda Satoru , Hasegawa Kosei , Inoue Satoshi
Published: September 2019

Objective: Ovarian cancer has the highest mortality among gynecological cancers. High-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) is the most common histotype of ovarian cancer regardless of ethnicity, whereas clear cell carcinoma (CCC) is more common in East Asians than Caucasians. The elucidation of predominant signaling pathways in these cancers is the first step towards understanding their molecular mechanisms and developing their clinical management. Methods: RNA sequencing was performed for 27 clinical ovarian specimens from Japanese women. Principal component analysis (PCA) was conducted on the sequence data mapped on RefSeq with normalized read counts, and functional annotation analysis was performed on genes with substantial weights in PCA. Knockdown experiments were conducted on the selected genes on the basis of PCA. Results: Functional annotation analysis of PCA-defined genes showed predominant pathways, such as cell growth regulators and blood coagulators in CCC and transcription regulators in HGSC. Knockdown experiments showed that the inhibition of the calcium-dependent protein copine 8 (CPNE8) and the transcription factor basic helix-loop-helix family member e 41 (BHLHE41) repressed the proliferation of CCC- and HGSC-derived cells, respectively. Conclusions: This study identified CPNE8 and BHLHE41 as characteristic genes for CCC and HGSC, respectively. The systemic identification of differentially expressed genes in CCC and HGSC will provide useful information to understand transcriptomic differences in these ovarian cancers and to further develop potential diagnostic and therapeutic options for advanced disease.
The Role of Exosomes in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Lan Bin , Zeng Siyuan , Grützmann Robert , Pilarsky Christian
Published: September 2019

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers in the world, as a consequence of late diagnosis, early metastasis and limited response to chemotherapy, under which conditions the potential mechanism of pancreatic cancer progression requires further study. Exosomes are membrane vesicles which are important in the progression, metastasis and chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer. Additionally, they have been verified to be potential as biomarkers, targets and drug carriers for pancreatic cancer treatment. Thus, studying the role of exosomes in pancreatic cancer is significant. This paper focuses on the role of exosomes in the proliferation, metastasis and chemoresistance, as well as their potential applications for pancreatic cancer.
Iron Release Profile of Silica-Modified Zero-Valent Iron NPs and Their Implication in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Yang Li-Xing , Wu Ya-Na , Wang Pei-Wen , Su Wu-Chou , Shieh Dar-Bin
Published: September 2019

To evaluate the iron ion release profile of zero-valent iron (ZVI)-based nanoparticles (NPs) and their relationship with lysosomes in cancer cells, silica and mesoporous silica-coated ZVI NPs (denoted as ZVI@SiO2 and ZVI@mSiO2) were synthesized and characterized for the following study of cytotoxicity, intracellular iron ion release, and their underlying mechanisms. ZVI@mSiO2 NPs showed higher cytotoxicity than ZVI@SiO2 NPs in the OEC-M1 oral cancer cell line. In addition, internalized ZVI@mSiO2 NPs deformed into hollow and void structures within the cells after a 24-h treatment, but ZVI@SiO2 NPs remained intact after internalization. The intracellular iron ion release profile was also accordant with the structural deformation of ZVI@mSiO2 NPs. Burst iron ion release occurred in ZVI@mSiO2-treated cells within an hour with increased lysosome membrane permeability, which induced massive reactive oxygen species generation followed by necrotic and apoptotic cell death. Furthermore, inhibition of endosome–lysosome system acidification successfully compromised burst iron ion release, thereby reversing the cell fate. An in vivo test also showed a promising anticancer effect of ZVI@mSiO2 NPs without significant weight loss. In conclusion, we demonstrated the anticancer property of ZVI@mSiO2 NPs as well as the iron ion release profile in time course within cells, which is highly associated with the surface coating of ZVI NPs and lysosomal acidification.
YaeB, Expressed in Response to the Acidic pH in Macrophages, Promotes Intracellular Replication and Virulence of Salmonella Typhimurium
Authors: Zhang Huan , Song Xiaorui , Wang Peisheng , Lv Runxia , Ma Shuangshuang , Jiang Lingyan
Published: September 2019

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is a facultative intracellular pathogen that infects humans and animals. Survival and growth in host macrophages represents a crucial step for S. Typhimurium virulence. Many genes that are essential for S. Typhimurium proliferation in macrophages and associated with virulence are highly expressed during the intracellular lifecycle. yaeB, which encodes an RNA methyltransferase, is also upregulated during S. Typhimurium growth in macrophages. However, the involvement of YaeB in S. Typhimurium pathogenicity is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of YaeB in S. Typhimurium virulence. Deletion of yaeB significantly impaired S. Typhimurium growth in macrophages and virulence in mice. The effect of yaeB on pathogenicity was related to its activation of pstSCAB, a phosphate (Pi)-specific transport system that is verified here to be important for bacterial replication and virulence. Moreover, qRT-PCR data showed YaeB was induced by the acidic pH inside macrophages, and the acidic pH passed to YeaB through inhibiting global regulator histone-like nucleoid structuring (H-NS) which confirmed in this study can repress the expression of yaeB. Overall, these findings identified a new virulence regulatory network involving yaeB and provided valuable insights to the mechanisms through which acidic pH and low Pi regulate virulence.
Cardioprotective Melatonin: Translating from Proof-of-Concept Studies to Therapeutic Use
Authors: Baltatu Ovidiu Constantin , Senar Sergio , Campos Luciana Aparecida , Cipolla-Neto José
Published: September 2019

In this review we summarized the actual clinical data for a cardioprotective therapeutic role of melatonin, listed melatonin and its agonists in different stages of development, and evaluated the melatonin cardiovascular target tractability and prediction using machine learning on ChEMBL. To date, most clinical trials investigating a cardioprotective therapeutic role of melatonin are in phase 2a. Selective melatonin receptor agonists Tasimelteon, Ramelteon, and combined melatonergic-serotonin Agomelatine, and other agonists with registered structures in CHEMBL were not yet investigated as cardioprotective or cardiovascular drugs. As drug-able for these therapeutic targets, melatonin receptor agonists have the benefit over melatonin of well-characterized pharmacologic profiles and extensive safety data. Recent reports of the X-ray crystal structures of MT1 and MT2 receptors shall lead to the development of highly selective melatonin receptor agonists. Predictive models using machine learning could help to identify cardiovascular targets for melatonin. Selecting ChEMBL scores > 4.5 in cardiovascular assays, and melatonin scores > 4, we obtained 284 records from 162 cardiovascular assays carried out with 80 molecules with predicted or measured melatonin activity. Melatonin activities (agonistic or antagonistic) found in these experimental cardiovascular assays and models include arrhythmias, coronary and large vessel contractility, and hypertension. Preclinical proof-of-concept and early clinical studies (phase 2a) suggest a cardioprotective benefit from melatonin in various heart diseases. However, larger phase 3 randomized interventional studies are necessary to establish melatonin and its agonists’ actions as cardioprotective therapeutic agents.
The Role of Peptide Signals Hidden in the Structure of Functional Proteins in Plant Immune Responses
Authors: Lyapina Irina , Filippova Anna , Fesenko Igor
Published: September 2019

Plants have evolved a sophisticated innate immune system to cope with a diverse range of phytopathogens and insect herbivores. Plasma-membrane-localized pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), such as receptor-like kinases (RLK), recognize special signals, pathogen- or damage-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs or DAMPs), and trigger immune responses. A growing body of evidence shows that many peptides hidden in both plant and pathogen functional protein sequences belong to the group of such immune signals. However, the origin, evolution, and release mechanisms of peptide sequences from functional and nonfunctional protein precursors, known as cryptic peptides, are largely unknown. Various special proteases, such as metacaspase or subtilisin-like proteases, are involved in the release of such peptides upon activation during defense responses. In this review, we discuss the roles of cryptic peptide sequences hidden in the structure of functional proteins in plant defense and plant-pathogen interactions.
Functional Dissection of pri-miR-290~295 in Dgcr8 Knockout Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Shi Ming , Hao Jing , Wang Xi-Wen , Liao Le-Qi , Cao Huiqing , Wang Yangming
Published: September 2019

The DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 8 (Dgcr8) knockout strategy has been widely used to study the function of canonical microRNAs (miRNAs) in vitro and in vivo. However, primary miRNA (pri-miRNA) transcripts are accumulated in Dgcr8 knockout cells due to interrupted processing. Whether abnormally accumulated pri-miRNAs have any function is unknown. Here, using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats system/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9), we successfully knocked out the primary microRNA-290~295 (pri-miR-290~295) cluster, the most highly expressed miRNA cluster in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs), in Dgcr8 knockout background. We found that the major defects associated with Dgcr8 knockout in mouse ESCs, including higher expression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, slower proliferation, G1 accumulation, and defects in silencing self-renewal, were not affected by the deletion of pri-miR-290~290 cluster. Interestingly, the transcription of neighboring gene nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine rich repeat and pyrin domain containing 12(Nlrp12) was upregulated upon the deletion of the pri-miR-290~295 cluster. Together, our results suggested that the major defects in Dgcr8 knockout ESCs were not due to the accumulation of pri-miR-290~295, and the deletion of miRNA genes could affect the transcription of neighboring DNA elements.
Optical Diagnostic Based on Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Ou Jiemei , Zhou Zidan , Chen Zhong , Tan Huijun
Published: September 2019

Au nanoparticles (NPs) possess unique physicochemical and optical properties, showing great potential in biomedical applications. Diagnostic spectroscopy utilizing varied Au NPs has become a precision tool of in vitro and in vivo diagnostic for cancer and other specific diseases. In this review, we tried to comprehensively introduce the remarkable optical properties of Au NPs, including localized surfaces plasmon resonance (LSPR), surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), and metal-enhanced fluorescence (MEF). Then, we highlighted the excellent works using Au NPs for optical diagnostic applications. Ultimately, the challenges and future perspective of using Au NPs for optical diagnostic were discussed.
Adverse Drug Event Detection Using a Weakly Supervised Convolutional Neural Network and Recurrent Neural Network Model
Authors: Zhang Min , Geng Guohua
Published: September 2019

Social media and health-related forums, including the expression of customer reviews, have recently provided data sources for adverse drug reaction (ADR) identification research. However, in the existing methods, the neglect of noise data and the need for manually labeled data reduce the accuracy of the prediction results and greatly increase manual labor. We propose a novel architecture named the weakly supervised mechanism (WSM) convolutional neural network (CNN) long-short-term memory (WSM-CNN-LSTM), which combines the strength of CNN and bi-directional long short-term memory (Bi-LSTM). The WSM applies the weakly labeled data to pre-train the parameters of the model and then uses the labeled data to fine-tune the initialized network parameters. The CNN employs a convolutional layer to study the characteristics of the drug reviews and active features at different scales, and then the feed-forward and feed-back neural networks of the Bi-LSTM utilize these salient features to output the regression results. The experimental results effectively demonstrate that our model marginally outperforms the comparison models in ADR identification and that a small quantity of labeled samples results in an optimal performance, which decreases the influence of noise and reduces the manual data-labeling requirements.
Effect of Initial Powders on Properties of FeAlSi Intermetallics
Authors: Čech Jaroslav , Haušild Petr , Karlík Miroslav , Bouček Václav , Nová Kateřina , Průša Filip , Novák Pavel , Kopeček Jaromír
Published: September 2019

FeAlSi intermetallics are materials with promising high-temperature mechanical properties and oxidation resistance. Nevertheless, their production by standard metallurgical processes is complicated. In this study, preparation of powders by mechanical alloying and properties of the samples compacted by spark plasma sintering was studied. Various initial feedstock materials were mixed to prepare the material with the same chemical composition. Time of mechanical alloying leading to complete homogenization of powders was estimated based on the microstructure observations, results of XRD and indentation tests. Microstructure, phase composition, hardness and fracture toughness of sintered samples was studied and compared with the properties of powders before the sintering process. It was found that independently of initial feedstock powder, the resulting phase composition was the same (Fe3Si + FeSi). The combination of hard initial powders required the longest milling time, but it led to the highest values of fracture toughness.
Bacterial Adherence Around Sutures of Different Material at Grafted Site: A Microbiological Analysis
Authors: Mahesh Lanka , Kumar Varun , Jain Anshi , Shukla Sagrika , Aragoneses Juan , Martínez González José , Fernández-Domínguez Manuel , Calvo-Guirado José
Published: September 2019

Closure of the surgical incision has been the primary function of sutures since their introduction. However, whatever the type, they are known to carry bacteria, which can be a source of infection. Five types of surgical sutures, Gut, Silk, Vicryl, PTFE, and Polyamide, were selected and tested on their ability to carry aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and were rated on the basis of forming colony-forming units (CFUs). Aerobic bacteria grown around gut sutures showed minimum CFUs (≈30 × 104/suture). Though very less anaerobic bacteria growth was seen among all tested suture materials, it was maximum around Vicryl and polyamide sutures. Every suture material is capable, albeit not equally, of holding bacterial biofilm formation, which can be a source of surgical site infection.
The Effect of Internal Pressure on Radial Strain of Steel Pipe Subjected to Monotonic and Cyclic Loading
Authors: Pleșcan Costel , Stanciu Mariana D. , Szasz Matyas
Published: September 2019

Steel pipes in different engineering applications may fail, leading to numerous environmental disasters. During loading, certain mechanical and chemical phenomena develop inside the pipes and cause them to burst. In this study, the influence of internal pressure on the elastic and plastic behaviour of E355 steel pipes was investigated on small specimens with different wall thicknesses. First, the failure modes of pipes subjected to monotonic loading were assessed, and then the behaviour of specimens subjected to cyclic internal pressure was analysed in terms of variation of radial strain. The strain and stress states of pipes were analysed using the finite element method. The results revealed that the hardening of materials inside the pipes increases the risk of cracking and bursting because of elasticity limits being exceeded, causing entry into the plastic domain. The transition of mechanical behaviour can be observed in the microstructure of steel in cracked areas from the inside to the outside of the pipe.
Investigation on Wear Behavior of Cryogenically Treated Ti-6Al-4V Titanium Alloy under Dry and Wet Conditions
Authors: Li Yonggang , Wang Xingfu , Yang Shengqiang , Hou Lifeng , Wei Yinghui , Zhang Zhongjie , Yang Xiaoni
Published: September 2019

Titanium alloys are widely used in many fields because of their excellent comprehensive properties. However, its poor friction and wear properties limit its many potential applications. In general, the surface roughness of important parts manufactured by titanium alloy should meet certain requirements. As a low-cost and high-efficiency processing method, barrel finishing has been used for the surface finishing of titanium alloys. The main material removal mechanism of barrel finishing is micro-cutting/grinding, which is similar to the material wear mechanism under some conditions. In addition, titanium alloys are subjected to a low force in common surface finishing processes. Cryogenic treatment is a method that can improve the comprehensive properties of titanium alloys. Therefore, the friction and wear behavior of cryogenically treated Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy (CT Ti alloy) and non-cryogenically treated Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy (NT Ti alloy) at a low load and scratch speed was studied comparatively in this paper. The results show that the CT Ti alloy exhibits a lower friction coefficient and wear rate under both dry and wet wear conditions. Under wet conditions, the stabilized friction coefficient is lower than that under dry conditions. The stabilized friction coefficient of CT Ti alloy is 0.18 after reaching a stable wear stage under wet conditions. Under dry wear conditions, the NT Ti alloy mainly showed typical abrasive wear, heavy adhesion wear and oxidation wear characters. The wear mechanisms of CT Ti alloy are mainly abrasive wear, slight adhesion wear and oxidation wear. Under wet wear conditions, the wear mechanism of NT Ti alloy is abrasive wear and slight adhesion wear. After cryogenic treatment, the mechanism for CT Ti alloy is slight abrasive wear.
Consolidation Modeling during Thermoforming of Thermoplastic Composite Prepregs
Authors: Xiong Hu , Hamila Nahiène , Boisse Philippe
Published: September 2019

This article describes the modeling of the compaction/consolidation behavior of thermoplastic composite prepregs during the thermoforming process. The proposed model is principally based on a generalized Maxwell approach. Within a hyperelastic framework, viscoelasticity is introduced for the compaction mode in addition to the in-plane shearing mode by taking into account the influence of the resin and its flow during consolidation. To reveal the evolution of the consolidation level, which reflects the number of voids in the composite, an intimate contact model was used during the process. The model was characterized by a compaction test at a high temperature. It was implemented into a recently developed prismatic solid-shell finite element. The analysis of the thermoforming of a double dome demonstrated the relevance of the consolidation computation in determining the process parameters leading to a composite part free of voids.