bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Disease-Free and Overall Survival in Retroperitoneal Sarcomas: A Modern 16-Year Multi-Institutional Study from the United States Sarcoma Collaboration (USSC)
Authors: Schwartz Patrick B. , Vande Walle Kara , Winslow Emily R. , Ethun Cecilia G. , Tran Thuy B. , Poultsides George , Tseng Jennifer , Roggin Kevin , Grignol Valerie , Howard John Harrison , Krasnick Bradley A. , Fields Ryan C. , Mogal Harveshp , Clarke Callisia N. , Senehi Rebecca , Votanopoulos Konstantinos , Cardona Kenneth , Abbott Daniel E.
Published: June 2019

Background. Retroperitoneal sarcomas (RPS) comprise approximately 15% of all soft-tissue sarcomas and frequently associated with significant morbidity and as little as 30% 5-year survival. Here, we provide a large, contemporary, and multi-institutional experience to determine which tumor, patient, and treatment characteristics are associated with long-term outcomes in RPS. Methods. 571 patients with primary RPS were identified from the United States Sarcoma Collaboration (USSC). RPS patients who underwent resection from January 2000 to April 2016 were included with patient, tumor, and treatment-specific variables investigated as independent predictors of survival. Survival analyses for disease-free and overall survival were conducted using Kaplan–Meier and Cox proportional hazards model methods. Results. The study cohort was 55% female, with a median age of 58.9 years (IQR: 48.6–70.0). The most common tumor histiotypes were liposarcoma (34%) and leiomyosarcoma (28%). Median follow-up was 30.6 months (IQR: 11.2–60.4). Median disease-free survival was 35.3 months (95% CI: 27.6–43.0), with multivariate predictors of poorer disease-free survival including higher grade tumors, nodal-positive disease, and multivisceral resection. Median overall survival was 81.6 months (95% CI: 66.3–96.8). Multivariate predictors of shorter overall survival included higher grade tumors, nodal-positive and multifocal disease, systemic chemotherapy, and grossly positive margins (R2) following resection. Conclusions. The strongest predictors of disease-free and overall survival are tumor-specific characteristics, while surgical factors are less impactful. Nonsurgical therapies are not associated with improved outcomes despite persistent interest and utilization. Complete macroscopic resection (R0/R1) remains a persistent potentially modifiable risk factor associated with improved overall survival in patients with retroperitoneal sarcomas.
The Experimental Demonstration of Correcting the Atmospheric Dispersion Using Image Processing Based on Edge Extension
Authors: Kong Sijie , Zhou Jin , Ma Wenli
Published: June 2019

We present an image processing algorithm based on edge extension to correct the influence of atmospheric dispersion. The Elden model is used to estimate the image dispersion index caused by atmospheric dispersion and the image affected by the atmospheric dispersion is regarded as the results of the original image convolution operation. When the direct convolution is used to compensate the blur of star, border effect and ill-posed problem make the result unacceptable. To solve these problems, we use image preprocessing and perform an edge extension method for images before the convolution. The simulated analysis and experimental results from a 300 mm telescope system show that the proposed method can effectively correct the influence of atmospheric dispersion even under relatively low signal to noise ratio (SNR<2). Compared with the traditional prism correction and fiber correction methods, this technique can greatly reduce the complexity of the optical system.
Effects of Qutanhuoxue Decoction on AQP7 and AQP9 Expression in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Model Rats
Authors: Zheng Ding , Peng Mengyun , Zhu Xiaoning , Wang Jing
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Qutanhuoxue decoction on AQP7 and AQP9 expression in nonalcoholic fatty liver model rats. Nighty male SD rats (six weeks old, 250 ± 10 g) were randomly divided into 5 groups: normal diet group (ND group), high-fat diet (HFD group), HFD + low dose Qd group, HFD + middle dose Qd group, and HFD + high dose Qd group. Rats in ND group were fed with a regular diet, while rats in other groups were fed with high-fat diet. After the success of the molding, HFD + low dose Qd group, HFD + middle dose Qd group, and HFD + high dose Qd group were, respectively, gavaged by Qutanhuoxue decoction with concentration of 4.5g.kg−1.d−1, 9.0g.kg−1.d−1, and 18g.kg−1.d−1. The ND group and HFD group were gavaged by the same volume of physiological saline lavage, once a day. During the period of gavaging, the other four groups continue to be fed with high-fat fodder except ND group. All rats were killed at 14d, 21d, and 28d, respectively. HE staining was used to observe the pathological changes of liver tissues and serum level of ALT AST GGT and TC TG was detected by automatic analyzer. The expression levels of liver AQP9 mRNA and adipose tissue AQP7 mRNA were detected by real-time PCR. Quhuoxue decoction can significantly reduce the liver function (ALT, AST, and GGT) and blood fat (TG, TC) levels of NAFLD rats and reduce the degree of liver fat degeneration. The effect was the best in the HFD + high dose Qd group of 28d. Qutanhuoxue decoction can decrease the expression of liver AQP9 mRNA and increase the expression of adipose tissue AQP7 mRNA. In conclusion, Qutanhuoxue decoction can reduce the degree of hepatic steatosis, which may be closely related to the increase of AQP7 expression in adipose tissue and the decrease of AQP9 expression in liver.
A Novel MOEA/D for Multiobjective Scheduling of Flexible Manufacturing Systems
Authors: Wang Xinnian , Xing Keyi , Yan Chao-Bo , Zhou Mengchu
Published: June 2019

This paper considers the multiobjective scheduling of flexible manufacturing systems (FMSs). Due to high degrees of route flexibility and resource sharing, deadlocks often exhibit in FMSs. Manufacturing tasks cannot be finished if any deadlock appears. For solving such problem, this work develops a deadlock‐free multiobjective evolutionary algorithm based on decomposition (DMOEA/D). It intends to minimize three objective functions, i.e., makespan, mean flow time, and mean tardiness time. The proposed algorithm can decompose a multiobjective scheduling problem into a certain number of scalar subproblems and solves all the subproblems in a single run. A type of a discrete differential evolution (DDE) algorithm is also developed for solving each subproblem. The mutation operator of the proposed DDE is based on the hamming distance of two randomly selected solutions, while the crossover operator is based on Generalization of Order Crossover. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed DMOEA/D can significantly outperform a Pareto domination‐based algorithm DNSGA‐II for both 2‐objective and 3‐objective problems on the studied FMSs.
Potential Hazards Associated with Raw Donkey Milk Consumption: A Review
Authors: Conte F. , Panebianco A.
Published: June 2019

Donkey milk can be used as a substitute for infants and children who suffer from cow milk proteins intolerance and multiple food hypersensitivity. Up to date, this is one of the main reasons why donkey milk has become a substantial area for reasearch, with an increase over the the last fifteen years. In donkey milk chain, risk analysis should be the object of particular attention because children are the main consumers of this food. In fact, this process is one of the main tool to achieve a high level of protection of human health and life; thus, the most important safety hazards should be monitored in order to attain this goal. This review focuses on the main hazards possibly present in raw donkey milk, including bacteria, fungal toxins, parasites, and chemical pollutants. Literature data have been considered, including some information that is not provided in the international literature. In the authors’ opinion, the current scientific knowledge should be improved, with the aim of allowing a suitable risk assessment along the whole donkey milk chain. However, in the meantime, the competent authorithies must carry out more stringent official controls, with particular attention given to the level of primary production. The issue of a traceability system in donkey milk chain should be considered of paramount importance.
A Dynamic Model of Hip Joint Biomechanics: The Contribution of Soft Tissues
Authors: Fetto Joseph F.
Published: June 2019

Before recent advances in computer modeling technology, it has been nearly impossible to define the contribution of soft tissue structures when constructing models of the body, and in particular the lower extremity. For almost 100 years, the design and fixation of femoral components for total hip arthroplasty (THA), whether cemented or press fit, have been predicated on the Koch model of hip biomechanics. A more comprehensive model, which includes the dynamic contribution of soft tissues, has expanded the Koch’s static model. This new model has led to a more complete representation of reality and has become the basis for the inclusion of a new stem design element (a lateral flare), a new concept of implant fixation (rest fit), and consequent significant increase in bone preservation and implant stability.
Adherence to Iron and Folic Acid Supplement and Its Associated Factors among Antenatal Care Attendant Mothers in Lay Armachiho Health Centers, Northwest, Ethiopia, 2017
Authors: Agegnehu Gashaw , Atenafu Azeb , Dagne Henok , Dagnew Baye
Published: June 2019

Background. Iron deficiency is the leading nutrient deficiency globally affecting the lives of more than two billion people worldwide. Pregnant women are at higher risk of iron and folic acid deficiency due to lack of iron and folic acid or due to poor adherence. Adherence to iron and folic acid supplement is taking 65% or more of the recommended supplement, equivalent to taking the supplement at least 4 days a week during 3 months period using recording, reporting, and checking cards. Objective. The current study aimed at assessing adherence to iron and folic acid supplement during pregnancy and its associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care. Methods. Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to March 2017. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study subjects. Data were collected using structured and pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to identify factors associated with adherence to iron and folic acid supplement among pregnant women. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to display the level of significance. Variables with a p-value less than 0.05 had been considered statistically significant. Result. Adherence to iron and folic acid in the current study was 28.7% with 95% CI (24.3, 33.6%). Educational status of mothers (AOR= 9.27 (95%CI: 2.47, 34.71)), educational status of husband (AOR= 0.31(95% CI: 0.11,0.88)), family size of four (AOR=3.70(95%CI: 1.08,12.76)), family size of five and above (AOR= 4.88(95% CI: 1.20, 19.85)), mothers who had 2500-3500 Ethiopian birr household average monthly income (AOR= 0.46(95% CI: 0.24,0.89)), mothers who had registered at 17-24 weeks of gestation (AOR=0.40(95% CI: 0.22-0.74)) and registered at 25-28 weeks (AOR=0.20(95% CI 0.10, 0.41)), and mothers who had collected their iron and folic acid starting at first visit at first month of pregnancy (AOR= 2.42(95% CI:1.05, 5.58)) had significant association with iron and folic acid adherence. Conclusion and Recommendation. Adherence of iron and folic acid was only 28.7% in the current study. Maternal and husband education status, family size, registration time, economic status, and first visit in the first month with duration of iron and folic acid taken were factors significantly associated with adherence to iron and folic acid supplement. Therefore, anaemia prevention strategy via improved iron and folic acid supplement adherence should comprise strategies of educating pregnant mothers, improving economic status, and early antenatal care (ANC) registration that can improve adherence to iron and folic acid supplement.
TP53Mutations Promote Immunogenic Activity in Breast Cancer
Authors: Liu Zhixian , Jiang Zehang , Gao Yingsheng , Wang Lirui , Chen Cai , Wang Xiaosheng
Published: June 2019

Background. Although immunotherapy has recently achieved clinical successes in a variety of cancers, thus far there is no immunotherapeutic strategy for breast cancer (BC). Thus, it is important to discover biomarkers for identifying BC patients responsive to immunotherapy.TP53mutations were often associated with worse clinical outcomes in BC whose triple-negative subtype has a highTP53mutation rate (approximately 80%). To explore a potentially promising therapeutic option for theTP53-mutated BC subtype, we studied the association betweenTP53mutations and immunogenic activity in BC.Methods. We compared the enrichment levels of 26 immune signatures that indicated activities of diverse immune cells, functions, and pathways betweenTP53-mutated andTP53-wildtype BCs based on two large-scale BC multiomics datasets. Moreover, we explored the molecular cues associated with the differences in immunogenic activity betweenTP53-mutated andTP53-wildtype BCs. Furthermore, we performed experimental validation of the findings from bioinformatics analysis.Results. Bioinformatics analysis showed that almost all analyzed immune signatures showed significantly higher enrichment levels inTP53-mutated BCs than inTP53-wildtype BCs. Moreover,in vitroexperiments confirmed that mutant p53 could increase BC immunogenicity. Both computational and experimental results demonstrated thatTP53mutations could promote BC immunogenicityviaregulation of the p53-mediated pathways including cell cycle, apoptosis, Wnt, Jak-STAT, NOD-like receptor, and glycolysis. Furthermore, we found that elevated immune activity was likely associated with a better survival prognosis inTP53-mutated BCs, but not necessarily inTP53-wildtype BCs.Conclusions.TP53mutations may promote immunogenic activity in BC, suggesting that theTP53mutation status could be a useful biomarker for stratifying BC patients responsive to immunotherapy.
A Novel Imperialist Competitive Algorithm for Multithreshold Image Segmentation
Authors: Wang Mei , Pan Guohua , Liu Yan
Published: June 2019

Multithreshold image segmentation plays a very important role in computer vision and pattern recognition. However, the computational complexity of multithreshold image segmentation increases exponentially with the increasing number of thresholds. Thus, in this paper, a novel imperialist competitive algorithm is proposed to solve the multithreshold image segmentation problem. Firstly, a new strategy of revolution and assimilation is adopted to improve the search efficiency of the algorithm. Secondly, imperialist self‐learning and reserve country set are introduced to enhance the search of outstanding individuals in the population. Combining with the reserve country set, a novel imperialist competition strategy is proposed to remove the poorer individuals and improve the overall quality of the population. Finally, the sensitivity of the algorithm parameters is analyzed. Ten standard test pictures are selected to test. The experimental results show that the novel imperialist competitive algorithm has faster convergence speed, higher quality, and higher stability in solving multithreshold segmentation problems than methods from literature.
Multiplicity Results for a Class of Kirchhoff-Schrödinger-Poisson System Involving Sign-Changing Weight Functions
Authors: Yang Dandan , Bai Chuanzhi
Published: June 2019

This paper deals with the Kirchhoff-Schrödinger-Poisson system involving sign-changing weight functions. We prove the existence and multiplicity of solutions to the system. Our main results are based on the method of Nehari manifold.
Differentially Expressed Genes Extracted by the Tensor Robust Principal Component Analysis (TRPCA) Method
Authors: Hu Yue , Liu Jin-Xing , Gao Ying-Lian , Li Sheng-Jun , Wang Juan
Published: June 2019

In the big data era, sequencing technology has produced a large number of biological sequencing data. Different views of the cancer genome data provide sufficient complementary information to explore genetic activity. The identification of differentially expressed genes from multiview cancer gene data is of great importance in cancer diagnosis and treatment. In this paper, we propose a novel method for identifying differentially expressed genes based on tensor robust principal component analysis (TRPCA), which extends the matrix method to the processing of multiway data. To identify differentially expressed genes, the plan is carried out as follows. First, multiview data containing cancer gene expression data from different sources are prepared. Second, the original tensor is decomposed into a sum of a low‐rank tensor and a sparse tensor using TRPCA. Third, the differentially expressed genes are considered to be sparse perturbed signals and then identified based on the sparse tensor. Fourth, the differentially expressed genes are evaluated using Gene Ontology and Gene Cards tools. The validity of the TRPCA method was tested using two sets of multiview data. The experimental results showed that our method is superior to the representative methods in efficiency and accuracy aspects.
ZYZ-803 Mitigates Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Related Necroptosis after Acute Myocardial Infarction through Downregulating the RIP3-CaMKII Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chang Lingling , Wang Zhijun , Ma Fenfen , Tran Bahieu , Zhong Rui , Xiong Ying , Dai Tao , Wu Jian , Xin Xiaoming , Guo Wei , Xie Ying , Mao Yicheng , Zhu Yi-Zhun
Published: June 2019

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and both cardiac necroptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) have been involved in the pathophysiology of AMI. ZYZ-803 is a hybrid molecule of a dual donor for gasotransmitters H2S and NO. The aim of the present study is to investigate the antinecroptosis role and potential mechanisms of ZYZ-803 in the setting of ERS during AMI injury. In vivo, ZYZ-803 preserves cardiac function and reduces infarct size significantly after 24-hour left coronary artery ligation through revising H2S and NO imbalance. In addition, ZYZ-803 relieves ERS and necroptosis in an AMI heart. In vitro, ZYZ-803 ameliorates ERS-related necroptosis induced by tunicamycin, and such effect has been depending on the receptor-interacting protein 3- (RIP3-) Ca2+-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMKII) signaling pathway. These findings have identified a novel antinecroptosis potential of ZYZ-803, providing a valuable candidate for cardioprotection in acute myocardial ischemia.
Endometriotic Peritoneal Fluid Promotes Myofibroblast Differentiation of Endometrial Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Zhang Zhenzhen , Suo Luxuan , Chen Yabing , Zhu Li , Wan Guiping , Han Xiaodong
Published: June 2019

During the development of endometriosis, the presence of fibrotic tissues in and surrounding endometriotic lesions may lead to subsequent adhesion, anatomic distortion, and chronic pain. Therefore, studies aimed at clarifying the underlying mechanisms of fibrogenesis in endometriosis could potentially provide a novel strategy for effective treatment. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play a key role in fibrotic diseases by differentiating into myofibroblasts in appropriate microenvironment. In this study, we collected endometrial and endometriotic tissues from patients with endometriosis (n=32) and control patients without endometriosis (n=20) to compare the expression of fibrotic proteins and investigate the effect of endometriotic peritoneal fluid (PF) on myofibroblast differentiation of endometrial MSCs. We found that the expression of fibrotic proteins, including alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), type I collagen (collagen I), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and fibronectin, and the extent of fibrosis extremely enhanced in ectopic endometria compared with eutopic endometria from the same patients with endometriosis and normal endometria from patients without endometriosis. We next isolated and identified endometrial MSCs and found that treatment with endometriotic PF strongly induced endometrial MSCs to differentiate into myofibroblasts concomitant with the activation of Smad2/3. Moreover, ectopic endometrial MSCs expressed elevated collagen I, α-SMA, fibronectin, and CTGF. Sushi domain containing-2 (SUSD2), a marker of endometrial MSCs, and α-SMA, a well-recognized marker for myofibroblasts, colocalized extensively in ectopic endometria while seldom in normal and eutopic endometria. These findings suggest that ectopic endometrial MSCs are probably more susceptible to myofibroblast differentiation because of the long-term influence of endometriotic PF. All together, we report for the first time that endometriotic PF promotes myofibroblast differentiation of endometrial MSCs. This understanding will greatly improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of endometriosis and help design better therapeutics.
Al2O3 Particles on Titanium Dental Implant Systems following Sandblasting and Acid-Etching Process
Authors: Schupbach Peter , Glauser Roland , Bauer Sebastian
Published: June 2019

Dental implants with moderately rough surfaces show enhanced osseointegration and faster bone healing compared with machined surfaces. The sandblasting and acid-etching (SA) process is one technique to create moderately rough dental implant surfaces. The purpose of this study was to analyse different commercially available implant systems with a SA-modified surface and to explore the widespread notion that they have similar surface properties regarding morphology and cleanliness. SA-modified surfaces of nine implant systems manufactured by Alpha-Bio Tec Ltd, Camlog Biotechnologies AG, Dentsply Sirona Dental GmbH, Neoss Ltd, Osstem Implant Co. Ltd, Institute Straumann AG, and Thommen Medical AG were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and examined for surface cleanliness. Six implants from three different lots were selected per each implant system. Mean particle counts for each implant and the mean size of the particles were calculated from three different regions of interest and compared using ANOVA and Tukey’s test. SEM analysis showed presence of particles on the majority of analyzed implant surfaces, and EDX evaluations determined that the particles were made of Al2O3 and thus remnants of the blasting process. SPI®ELEMENT INICELL® and Bone Level (BL) Roxolid® SLActive® implant surfaces showed the highest mean particle counts, 46.6 and 50.3 per area, respectively. The surface of BL Roxolid® SLActive® implant also showed the highest variations in the particle counts, even in samples from the same lot. The mean size of particles was 1120±1011 μm2, measured for USIII CA Fixture implants, while the biggest particle was 5900 μm2 found on a BL Roxolid® SLActive® implant. These results suggest that not all manufacturers are able to produce implant surfaces without particle contamination and highlight that the surface modification process with the SA technique should be appropriately designed and controlled to achieve a clean and consistent final medical device.
Observations of Radio Magnetars with the Deep Space Network
Authors: Pearlman Aaron B. , Majid Walid A. , Prince Thomas A.
Published: June 2019

The Deep Space Network (DSN) is a worldwide array of radio telescopes which supports NASA’s interplanetary spacecraft missions. When the DSN antennas are not communicating with spacecraft, they provide a valuable resource for performing observations of radio magnetars, searches for new pulsars at the Galactic Center, and additional pulsar-related studies. We describe the DSN’s capabilities for carrying out these types of observations. We also present results from observations of three radio magnetars, PSR J1745–2900, PSR J1622–4950, and XTE J1810–197, and the transitional magnetar candidate, PSR J1119–6127, using the DSN radio telescopes near Canberra, Australia.
Labor Epidural Analgesia to Cesarean Section Anesthetic Conversion Failure: A National Survey
Authors: Desai Neel , Gardner Andrew , Carvalho Brendan
Published: June 2019

Background. If conversion of labor epidural analgesia to cesarean delivery anesthesia fails, the anesthesiologist can be confronted with a challenging clinical dilemma. Optimal management of a failed epidural top up continues to be debated in the absence of best practice guidelines. Method. All members of the Obstetric Anaesthetists’ Association in the United Kingdom were emailed an online survey in May 2017. It obtained information on factors influencing the decision to utilize an existing labor epidural for cesarean section and, if epidural top up resulted in no objective sensory block, bilateral T10 sensory block, or unilateral T6 sensory block, factors influencing the management and selection of anesthetic technique. Differences in management options between respondents were compared using the chi-squared test. Results. We received 710 survey questionnaires with an overall response rate of 41%. Most respondents (89%) would consider topping up an existing labor epidural for a category-one cesarean section. In evaluating whether or not to top up an existing labor epidural, the factors influencing decision-making were how effective the epidural had been for labor pain (99%), category of cesarean section (73%), and dermatomal level of blockade (61%). In the setting of a failed epidural top up, the most influential factors determining further anesthetic management were the category of cesarean section (92%), dermatomal level of blockade (78%), and the assessment of maternal airway. Spinal anesthesia was commonly preferred if an epidural top up resulted in no objective sensory block (74%), bilateral T10 sensory block (57%), or unilateral T6 sensory block (45%). If the sensory block level was higher or unilateral, then a lower dose of intrathecal local anesthetic was selected and alternative options such as combined-spinal epidural and general anesthesia were increasingly favored. Discussion. Our survey revealed variations in the clinical management of a failed epidural top up for cesarean delivery, suggesting guidelines to aid decision-making are needed.
The Prognostic Role of Klotho in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Qi-feng , Yu Li-xia , Feng Jian-hua , Sun Qiang , Li Sha-sha , Ye Jian-Ming
Published: June 2019

Objective. The prognostic role of Klotho in patients with chronic kidney disease is still controversial. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis to assess the relationship between the low sKlotho level and the risk of adverse kidney outcomes. Materials and Methods. We systematically searched medical databases, such as PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, for eligible publications regarding the relationship between the low sKlotho level and risk of adverse kidney outcomes. The quality of included studies was assessed by using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Combined hazard ratios (HRs) and its 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random- or fixed-effect model. Subgroup analysis was conducted with stratification by age, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), follow-up interval, region, and study quality. All data was analyzed by RevMan 5.3 analysis software. Results. Eight cohort studies with 3586 participants from 3818 studies were included in our final analysis. Levels of sKlotho were significantly correlated with the eGFR, with a summary correlation coefficient r and 95% CI of 0.469 (0.226, 0.658). Additionally, low sKlotho levels were strongly associated with increased adverse kidney outcomes, and the pooled HR and its 95% CI were 1.64 (1.19, 2.26; P=0.002), despite publication bias and statistical heterogeneity (I2=52%, P=0.07). Furthermore, this positive correlation was still observed in all of the subgroup analyses. However, heterogeneity was present in subgroup analyses stratified by the eGFR and follow-up interval. Conclusion. Levels of sKlotho are positively correlated with the eGFR, and low sKlotho levels are significantly associated with an increased risk of poor kidney outcomes. Therefore, sKlotho could be used as a novel biomarker for early diagnosis and prognostic assessment for patients with chronic kidney disease. Studies with a larger sample size and longer follow-up period are warranted to validate our results.
The Effect of Maternal Diet with Fish Oil on Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Response in Sow and New-Born Piglets
Authors: Luo W. L. , Luo Z. , Xu X. , Zhao S. , Li S. H. , Sho T. , Yao J. , Zhang J. , Xu W. N. , Xu J. X.
Published: June 2019

Pregnancy is an oxidative stress and immune challenge for the mother. Fish oil is rich in EPA and DHA, which can partly inhibit aspects of inflammation and restore antioxidant capacity. In the present study, we investigated the effect of maternal diet with fish oil during the late gestation period on oxidative stress and inflammatory response in sows and their progenies. Twelve second-parity sows were allocated equally into two groups. Sows were fed either the soybean oil diet (SD) or soybean oil+fish oil diet (FD) during the gestation period. The plasma of sows, cord blood, and new-born piglets were collected. Full-term placentas and livers of new-born piglets were also sampled. The activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) in the plasma of sows on farrowing day were higher, and the concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PGE2) in the plasma of sows on farrowing day and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in the plasma of cord blood were lower in the FD group than those in the SD group (P<0.05). The FD downregulated the expression of SOD, IL-1β, IL-6, and transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 binding protein 1 (TAB1) mRNA but upregulated the expression of lipoxygenase enzyme 5 (ALOX5) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) mRNA in placentas (P<0.05). The FD downregulated the protein expression level of p-JNK/JNK in placentas (P<0.05). In the livers of new-born piglets, the FD upregulated the expression of ALOX5 (P<0.05) and G-protein-coupled receptor 120 (GPR120) (P<0.05) mRNA. Our results suggest that the maternal diet with fish oil might alleviate oxidative stress in sows on farrowing day and modulate inflammatory response in full-term placentas by inhibiting the JNK signal pathway. Moreover, the maternal diet with fish oil might partly regulate the neonatal immune response of their progenies.
Boundary Bias Correction Using Weighting Method in Presence of Nonresponse in Two-Stage Cluster Sampling
Authors: Bii Nelson Kiprono , Onyango Christopher Ouma , Odhiambo John
Published: June 2019

Kernel density estimators due to boundary effects are often not consistent when estimating a density near a finite endpoint of the support of the density to be estimated. To address this, researchers have proposed the application of an optimal bandwidth to balance the bias-variance trade-off in estimation of a finite population mean. This, however, does not eliminate the boundary bias. In this paper weighting method of compensating for nonresponse is proposed. Asymptotic properties of the proposed estimator of the population mean are derived. Under mild assumptions, the estimator is shown to be asymptotically consistent.
Brain Hemodynamic Intermediate Phenotype Links Vitamin B12 to Cognitive Profile of Healthy and Mild Cognitive Impaired Subjects
Authors: Cecchetti Luca , Lettieri Giada , Handjaras Giacomo , Leo Andrea , Ricciardi Emiliano , Pietrini Pietro , Pellegrini Silvia , The Train the Brain Consortium
Published: June 2019

Vitamin B12, folate, and homocysteine are implicated in pivotal neurodegenerative mechanisms and partake in elders’ mental decline. Findings on the association between vitamin-related biochemistry and cognitive abilities suggest that the structural and functional properties of the brain may represent an intermediate biomarker linking vitamin concentrations to cognition. Despite this, no previous study directly investigated whether vitamin B12, folate, and homocysteine levels are sufficient to explain individual neuropsychological profiles or, alternatively, whether the activity of brain regions modulated by these compounds better predicts cognition in elders. Here, we measured the relationship between vitamin blood concentrations, scores at seventeen neuropsychological tests, and brain activity of sixty-five elders spanning from normal to Mild Cognitive Impairment. We then evaluated whether task-related brain responses represent an intermediate phenotype, providing a better prediction of subjects’ neuropsychological scores, as compared to the one obtained considering blood biochemistry only. We found that the hemodynamic activity of the right dorsal anterior cingulate cortex was positively associated (p value<0.05 cluster corrected) with vitamin B12 concentrations, suggesting that elders with higher B12 levels had a more pronounced recruitment of this salience network region. Crucially, the activity of this area significantly predicted subjects’ visual search and attention abilities (p value=0.0023), whereas B12 levels per se failed to do so. Our results demonstrate that the relationship between blood biochemistry and elders’ cognitive abilities is revealed when brain activity is included into the equation, thus highlighting the role of brain imaging as intermediate phenotype.
Exploring the Internal Radiative Efficiency of Selective Area Nanowires
Authors: Cavalli A. , Haverkort J. E. M. , Bakkers E. P. A. M.
Published: June 2019

Nanowires are ideal building blocks for next-generation solar cell applications. Nanowires grown with the selective area (SA) approach, in particular, have demonstrated very high material quality, thanks to high growth temperature, defect-free crystalline structure, and absence of external catalysts, especially in the InP material system. A comprehensive study on the influence of growth conditions and device processing on optical emission is still necessary though. This article presents an investigation of the nanowire optical properties, performed in order to optimize the internal radiative efficiency. In an initial preamble, the motivation for this study is discussed, as well as the morphology and crystallinity of the nanowires. The effect on the nanowire photoluminescence of several intrinsic and extrinsic parameters and factors are then presented in three sections: first, the influence of basic growth conditions such as the temperature and the precursor ratio is studied. Subsequently, the effects of varying dopant molar flows are explored, keeping in mind the intended solar cell application. Third, the manner in which the processing and the passivation affect the nanowire optical emission is discussed. Precise control of the growth conditions allows maximizing the nanowire internal radiative efficiency and thus their performance in solar cells and other optoelectronic devices.
Lunar Radiometric Measurement Based on Observing China Chang’E-3 Lander with VLBI—First Insight
Authors: Han SongTao , Zhang ZhongKai , Sun Jing , Cao JianFeng , Chen Lue , Lu Weitao , Li WenXiao
Published: June 2019

China Chang’E-3 performed soft landing at the plains of Sinus Iridum on lunar surface on December 14th 2013 successfully; it opened a new window for observing lunar surface with radiometric tracking which many lunar scientific researchers always pursue for. Since July 2014, OCEL (Observing Chang’E-3 Lander with VLBI) project has been conducted jointly by IVS (International VLBI Service of Geodesy and Astrometry) and BACC (Beijing Aerospace Control Center), a global IVS R&D network augmented with two China Deep Space Stations configured for OCEL. This paper presents the current status and preliminary result of the OCEL and mainly focuses on determination of the lander position, which is about 7 meter in height and 14 meter in plane of lunar surface with respect to LRO (Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter). Based on accuracy analysis, further optimized OCEL sessions will make use of this target-of-opportunity, the Chang’E-3 lunar lander, as long as it is working. With higher accurate radiometric observables, more prospective contribution to earth and lunar science is expected by combining with LLR.
Against Common Assumptions, the World’s Shark Bite Rates Are Decreasing
Authors: Ritter Erich , Amin Raid , Cahn Kevin , Lee Jonathan
Published: June 2019

The trends of the world’s top ten countries relating to shark bite rates, defined as the ratio of the annual number of shark bites of a country and its resident human population, were analyzed for the period 2000-2016. A nonparametric permutation-based methodology was used to determine whether the slope of the regression line of a country remained constant over time or whether so-called joinpoints, a core feature of the statistical softwareJoinpoint, occurred, at which the slope changes and a better fit could be obtained by applying a straight-line model. More than 90% of all shark bite incidents occurred along the US, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand coasts. Since three of these coasts showed a negative trend when transformed into bite rates, the overall global trend is decreasing. Potential reasons for this decrease in shark bite rates—besides an increase in the world’s human population, resulting in more beach going people, and a decrease of sharks due to overfishing—are discussed.
Fetal Programming and Sexual Dimorphism of Mitochondrial Protein Expression and Activity of Hearts of Prenatally Hypoxic Guinea Pig Offspring
Authors: Thompson Loren P. , Song Hong , Polster Brian M.
Published: June 2019

Chronic intrauterine hypoxia is a programming stimulus of cardiovascular dysfunction. While the fetal heart adapts to the reduced oxygenation, the offspring heart becomes vulnerable to subsequent metabolic challenges as an adult. Cardiac mitochondria are key organelles responsible for an efficient energy supply but are subject to damage under hypoxic conditions. We propose that intrauterine hypoxia alters mitochondrial function as an underlying programming mechanism of contractile dysfunction in the offspring. Indices of mitochondrial function such as mitochondrial DNA content, Complex (C) I-V expression, and CI/CIV enzyme activity were measured in hearts of male and female offspring at 90 days old exposed to prenatal hypoxia (10.5% O2) for 14 d prior to term (65 d). Both left ventricular tissue and cardiomyocytes exhibited decreased mitochondrial DNA content, expression of CIV, and CI/CIV activity in male hearts. In female cardiomyocytes, hypoxia had no effect on protein expression of CI-CV nor on CI/CIV activity. This study suggests that chronic intrauterine hypoxia alters the intrinsic properties of select respiratory complexes as a programming mechanism of cardiac dysfunction in the offspring. Sex differences in mitochondrial function may underlie the increased vulnerability of age-matched males compared to females in cardiovascular disease and heart failure.
Influence of Lineage-Negative Stem Cell Therapy on Articulatory Functions in ALS Patients
Authors: Pawlukowska Wioletta , Baumert Bartłomiej , Gołąb-Janowska Monika , Sobuś Anna , Wełnicka Agnieszka , Meller Agnieszka , Machowska-Sempruch Karolina , Zawiślak Alicja , Łuczkowska Karolina , Milczarek Sławomir , Osękowska Bogumiła , Paczkowska Edyta , Rotter Iwona , Nowacki Przemysław , Machaliński Bogusław
Published: June 2019

Introduction. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal, neurodegenerative disease, leading to loss of muscle strength and motor control. Impaired speech and swallowing lower the quality of life and consequently may induce acute respiratory failure. Bone marrow-derived stem and progenitor cells (SPCs) may be a valuable source of trophic factors. In this study, we assessed whether adjuvant cellular therapy could affect the levels of selected neurotrophins and proinflammatory factors in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and subsequently prevent the deterioration of articulation.Materials and Methods. The study group consisted of 32 patients with sporadic ALS who underwent autologous lineage-negative (Lin−) stem cell intrathecal administration to the spinal canal. Lin−cells were aspirated from the bone marrow and isolated using immunomagnetic beads and a lineage cell depletion kit. Patients were examined for articulatory functions by means of the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) questionnaire and Frenchay Dysarthria Assessment (FDA). In parallel, we carried out the analysis of selected trophic and proinflammatory factors in CSF utilizing multiplex fluorescent bead-based immunoassays.Results. Of the 32 patients who received the Lin−progenitor cell therapy, 6 (group I) showed improvement in articulatory functions, 23 remained stable (group II), and 3 deteriorated (group III) on the 28thday. The improvement was particularly noticeable in a better cough reflex, laryngeal time, and dribble reflex. A statistically significant lower level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was observed on day 0 in group I compared to group II. The CSF concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP) in group I significantly decreased 7 days after Lin−SPC transplantation. On the contrary, a significant increase in the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNF-R) level was confirmed among patients from group I with improvement of dribble and coughing reflex, tongue movements, and respiration on the 7thday, as well as on day 28 including dribble reflex solely.Conclusions. An application of Lin−stem cells could potentate the beneficial humoral effect. The prevention of deterioration of articulatory functions in ALS patients after applying adjuvant Lin−stem cell therapy seems to be promising. Although the procedure is safe and feasible, it requires further in-depth studies.
Raindrop Size Distribution Retrieval Using Joint Dual-Frequency and Dual-Polarization Microwave Links
Authors: Song Kun , Liu Xichuan , Gao Taichang , He Binsheng
Published: June 2019

Estimation of raindrop size distribution (DSD) is essential in many meteorological and hydrologic fields. This paper proposes a method for retrieving path-averaged DSD parameters using joint dual-frequency and dual-polarization microwave links of the telecommunication system. Detailed analyses of the rain-induced attenuation calculation are performed based on the T-matrix method. A forward model is established for describing the relation between the DSD and the rain-induced attenuation. Then, the method is proposed to retrieve propagation path DSD parameters based on Levenberg–Marquardt optimization algorithm. The numerical simulation for path-averaged DSD retrieval shows that the RMSEs of three gamma DSD parameters are 0.34 mm−1, 0.81, and 3.21×103 m−3·mm−1, respectively, in rainfall intensity above 30 mm/h. Meanwhile, the method can retrieve the rainfall intensity without the influence of variational DSD. Theoretical analyses and numerical simulations confirm that the method for retrieving path-averaged DSD parameters is promising. The method can complement existing DSD monitoring systems such as the disdrometer and provide high-resolution rainfall measurements with widely distributed microwave links without additional cost.
Climate Variability and Farmers’ Perception in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Esayas Befikadu , Simane Belay , Teferi Ermias , Ongoma Victor , Tefera Nigussie
Published: June 2019

The study aims to analyze climate variability and farmers’ perception in Southern Ethiopia. Gridded annual temperature and precipitation data were obtained from the National Meteorological Agency (NMA) of Ethiopia for the period between 1983 and 2014. Using a multistage sampling technique, 403 farm households were surveyed to substantiate farmers’ perceptions about climate variability and change. The study applied a nonparametric Sen’s slope estimator and Mann–Kendall’s trend tests to detect the magnitude and statistical significance of climate variability and binary logit regression model to find factors influencing farm households’ perceptions about climate variability over three agroecological zones (AEZs). The trend analysis reveals that positive trends were observed in the annual maximum temperature, 0.02°C/year (p<0.01) in the lowland and 0.04°C/year (p<0.01) in the highland AEZs. The positive trend in annual minimum temperature was consistent in all AEZs and significant (p<0.01). An upward trend in the annual total rainfall (10 mm/year) (p<0.05) was recorded in the midland AEZ. Over 60% of farmers have perceived increasing temperature and decreasing rainfall in all AEZs. However, farmers’ perception about rainfall in the midland AEZ contradicts with meteorological analysis. Results from the binary logit model inform that farmers’ climate change perceptions are significantly influenced by their access to climate and market information, agroecology, education, agricultural input, and village market distance. Based on these results, it is recommended to enhance farm households’ capacity by providing timely weather and climate information along with institutional actions such as agricultural extension services.
TRPV1 and TRPA1 in Lung Inflammation and Airway Hyperresponsiveness Induced by Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5)
Authors: Xu Mengmeng , Zhang Yanbei , Wang Muyun , Zhang Hai , Chen Yuqing , Adcock Ian M. , Chung Kian Fan , Mo Jinhan , Zhang Yinping , Li Feng
Published: June 2019

Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been associated with lung inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR). Transient receptor potential (TRP) vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) both may play important roles in lung inflammation and AHR. We investigated whether PM2.5-induced lung inflammation and AHR could be prevented by blocking TRPV1 and TRPA1 channels. Mice were injected intraperitoneally with AMG9810 (30 mg/kg, a TRPV1 antagonist) or A967079 (30 mg/kg, a TRPA1 antagonist) or their combination or vehicle (PBS) one hour before intranasal instillation of PM2.5 (7.8 mg/kg) or vehicle (PBS) for two consecutive days, and then the mice were studied 24 h later. All pretreatments inhibited PM2.5-induced AHR and inflammatory infiltration in the lung tissue and decreased inflammatory cytokine levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, together with oxidant levels in the lung. AMG9810 inhibited MFF expression and increased MFN2 expression while A967079 inhibited DRP1 expression and increased OPA1 expression; combined pretreatment reduced MFF and DPR1 expression and increased MFN2 and OPA1 expression. All pretreatments inhibited the activation of the TLR4/NF-κB pathway, while A967079 alone, and combined with AMG9810 also reduced the activation of the NLRP3/caspase-1 pathway. Both TRPV1 and TRPA1 channels play an important role in PM2.5-induced lung inflammation and AHR. However, inhibition of the TRPA1 channel or combined inhibition of TRPA1 and TRPV1 channels resulted in greater inhibitory effect on PM2.5-induced lung injury through regulating the mitochondrial fission/fusion proteins and inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB and NLRP3/caspase-1 pathways.