bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis on Fracture Toughness of the L360QS/N08825 Bimetallic Composite Pipe Welded Joint
Authors: Wang Bin , Lan Hongxia , Lei Bobo
Published: October 2019

The fracture toughness of the weld and heat-affected zone (HAZ) of the L360QS/N08825 composite pipe welded joint was evaluated by a crack tip opening displacement (CTOD) test. The fracture morphology, microstructure, and inclusion near fracture zones were observed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The grain size and grain orientation of the crack propagation zone in the weld were investigated by electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD). The results revealed that the average CTOD values of the weld and HAZ samples were relatively high, and a greater dispersion of CTOD values of the HAZ samples is due to the pop-in phenomenon in the P–V curve. The fracture surfaces of the weld and HAZ samples showed the characteristics of ductile fracture to a certain extent, whereas the fracture of the CTOD sample with the pop-in phenomenon exhibited a quasicleavage feature. High-density dislocation and a large number of inclusions were observed in the near fracture zone of the weld and HAZ samples. The stress concentration, caused by hindering the dislocation slip, was the main reason for microcrack formation. The existence of large-size grains and large-scale small-angle grain boundary in the weld implies that the cracks propagate toward the weld.
Severe Drug-Induced Liver Injury from Combination Encorafenib/Binimetinib
Authors: Gravbrot Nicholas , Sundararajan Srinath
Published: October 2019

Encorafenib/binimetinib is a new combination BRAF/MEK inhibitor used in the treatment of advanced or metastatic BRAFV600-mutant melanoma. Though generally tolerated well, mild to moderate aminotransferase elevations are common. However, significant liver injury has not been demonstrated in the literature. Here, we report the first case of severe hepatic injury associated with encorafenib/binimetinib in a 58-year-old gentleman requiring admission and extensive workup. He was successfully treated by withdrawing the combination therapy, and liver function returned to normal range.
Design and Experimental Study on Shock‐Absorbing Steel Bar with Limit Function for Bridges
Authors: Li Zhaoguang , Gao Ri , Jia Wei
Published: October 2019

The existing research on shock‐absorbing steel bars is only limited to simply supported beam bridge. In order to expand the application of shock‐absorbing steel bars to other fields, this paper develops a novel shock‐absorbing steel bar with limit function, and it is suitable for continuous beam bridges. The structure and working mechanism of the shock‐absorbing steel bar are analyzed. Three sets of specimens of the shock‐absorbing steel bar are fabricated and then repeatedly loaded by the designed quasistatic loading device, in order to investigate their seismic performance parameters, including hysteresis curve, skeleton curve, and initial stiffness and equivalent viscous damping ratio. The results show that when the displacement of the specimen exceeds the initial gap, it enters the stage of energy dissipation and has a stable hysteresis curve and good fatigue resistance. Besides, the shock‐absorbing device has a high initial stiffness and can provide stable bearing capacity after yielding. The equivalent viscous damping ratio reflects that the designed shock‐absorbing steel bar has good energy dissipation capacity.
Optically Transparent Anionic Nanofibrillar Cellulose Is Cytocompatible with Human Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells and Allows Simple Imaging in 3D
Authors: Sheard Jonathan J. , Bicer Mesude , Meng Yiming , Frigo Alessia , Aguilar Rocío Martínez , Vallance Thomas M. , Iandolo Donata , Widera Darius
Published: October 2019

The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of human mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are a focus within regenerative medicine. However, 2D cultivation of MSCs for extended periods results in abnormal cell polarity, chromosomal changes, reduction in viability, and altered differentiation potential. As an alternative, various 3D hydrogels have been developed which mimic the endogenous niche of MSCs. Nevertheless, imaging cells embedded within 3D hydrogels often suffers from low signal-to-noise ratios which can be at least partly attributed to the high light absorbance and light scattering of the hydrogels in the visible light spectrum. In this study, human adipose tissue-derived MSCs (ADSCs) are cultivated within an anionic nanofibrillar cellulose (aNFC) hydrogel. It is demonstrated that aNFC forms nanofibres arranged as a porous network with low light absorbance in the visible spectrum. Moreover, it is shown that aNFC is cytocompatible, allowing for MSC proliferation, maintaining cell viability and multilineage differentiation potential. Finally, aNFC is compatible with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy including the application of conventional dyes, fluorescent probes, indirect immunocytochemistry, and calcium imaging. Overall, the results indicate that aNFC represents a promising 3D material for the expansion of MSCs whilst allowing detailed examination of cell morphology and cellular behaviour.
Lightweight and High‐Strength Design of an Excavator Bucket under Uncertain Loading
Authors: Yu Xiujuan , Pang Xiaoping , Zou Zhihong , Zhang Guo , Hu Ying , Dong Jingjun , Song Houli
Published: October 2019

This paper presents a methodology for lightweight and high‐strength design of an excavator bucket under uncertain loading. Uncertain loads are obtained by using the Monte Carlo simulation based on the existing soil‐bucket interaction model in which the soil parameters are variable. And the well‐known 3‐sigma methodology is used for the quantification of the uncertain loads. Excavator bucket modelling is finished by using ANSYS Parameter Design Language (APDL). A multiobjective optimization model aiming to decrease the maximum von Mises stress and to reduce the weight of the bucket is established on the foundations of the uncertain load and the parametric geometry model. The structural shape and topology of the bucket are then designed by using the mixed variable genetic algorithm to solve the established optimization problem. The results show that the presented method can be effectively and efficiently applied for the optimization design of the excavator bucket and that the optimized bucket signifies obvious decreases in the weight and the stress compared with the initial reference model. The proposed methodology for structure optimization design considering uncertain loads not only provides the technical means for the design and development of high‐performance bucket but also lays a preliminary theoretical foundation for the optimization design integrated machine‐environment interaction.
Assessment of Iodine Status among Pregnant Women and Neonates Using Neonatal Thyrotropin (TSH) in Mainland China after the Introduction of New Revised Universal Salt Iodisation (USI) in 2012: A Re-Emergence of Iodine Deficiency?
Authors: Zhou Hang , Ma Zheng Feei , Lu Yiming , Pan Binyu , Shao Jian , Wang Liya , Du Yanyan , Zhao Qihua
Published: October 2019

Iodine deficiency during pregnancy can cause iodine deficiency disorders (IDD). However, it is unclear about iodine and thyroid status of Chinese pregnant women and neonates after the implementation of the revised universal salt iodisation (USI) level in 2012. Therefore, the aim of the cross-sectional study was to determine iodine nutrition and thyroid status among pregnant women and their neonates in China after the implementation of USI. Medical records of pregnant women and neonates in Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital between January 2016 and December 2017 were reviewed and included. We included 3060 mother-and-newborn pairs in the study. Mean age of participants was 28.2 ± 4.1 years. TSH, FT3, and FT4 of participants were within normal reference range. The overall mean neonatal TSH, birth weight, and prevalence of low birth weight (LBW) were 4.86 ± 2.06 mIU/L, 3358 ± 455 g, and 3.2%, respectively. The prevalence of neonatal TSH values >5 mIU/L was 29.3%, suggesting iodine deficiency in the region. In conclusion, our results indicated iodine deficiency in the region, according to the neonatal TSH cutoff recommended by WHO/UNICEF/IGD. More efforts are urgently required to improve iodine status of pregnant women in the region in order to prevent a re-emergence of iodine deficiency.
Protective Effects of Konjac and Inulin Extracts on Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Gao Tianle , Jiao Yue , Liu Yang , Li Tao , Wang Zhiguo , Wang Danqiao
Published: October 2019

Objective. The present study was designed to determine whether konjac and inulin extracts or their combination, konjac-inulin (KI) composition, as diet supplementary, can exert beneficial effects against type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes using animal models. Methods. A total of 60 diabetic (type 1) rats induced by streptozotocin (STZ) were randomly assigned to five groups: vehicle control (STZ group), KI combination at low dose group (KI-L group), KI combination at medium dose group (KI-M group), KI combination at high dose group (KI-H group), konjac extract group (konjac group), and inulin extract group (inulin group). A sham group (without STZ) was also included. Levels of blood glucose were monitored at each week. After continuous treatment of each diet for 24 days, a glucose tolerance test was performed. After 28 days of treatment, plasma biochemical indicators including glycated serum proteins, total cholesterol, and triglycerides were measured and immunohistochemistry staining of the rat pancreas was performed, to study the insulin expressions. Type 2 diabetes was developed in db/db mice. A total of 28 db/db mice were divided into 4 groups: vehicle control (db/db group), KI composition group (KI group), konjac extract group (konjac group), and inulin extract group (inulin group). A wild-type control group (wild-type group) for db/db mice was also included. Levels of blood glucose, body weight, and blood triglycerides were monitored at each week. Results. Daily use of the KI composition significantly decreased levels of blood glucose and blood triglycerides, as well as improved the insulin production in islets or reduced development of obesity in STZ-induced diabetic rats or in db/db mice. Such effects from KI composition were better than single ingredient of konjac or inulin extract. Conclusion. The results of this study suggest that daily use of KI composition has a protective role on type 1 and 2 diabetes and provided experimental basis for further development of KI composition as a food supplement for diabetic or diabetic high-risk population.
Is There a Role of Using a Rapid Finger Prick Antibody Test in Screening for Celiac Disease in Children?
Authors: Baraba Dekanić Kristina , Butorac Ahel Ivona , Ružman Lucija , Dolinšek Jasmina , Dolinšek Jernej , Palčevski Goran
Published: October 2019

Introduction. Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disease triggered by gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. Despite the increasing prevalence of CD, many patients remain undiagnosed. Standard serology tests are expensive and invasive, so several point-of-care tests (POC) for CD have been developed. We aimed to determine the prevalence of CD in first-grade pupils in Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, Croatia, using a POC test. Methods. A Biocard celiac test that detects IgA antibodies to tissue transglutaminase in whole blood was used to screen for celiac disease in healthy first-grade children born in 2011 and 2012 who consumed gluten without restrictions. Results. 1478 children were tested, and none of them were tested positive with a rapid test. In 10 children (0,6%), IgA deficiency has been suspected; only 4 of them agreed to be tested further for total IgA, anti-tTG, and anti-DGP antibodies. IgA deficiency was confirmed in 3 patients, and in all 4 children, CD has been excluded. Conclusion. Our results have not confirmed the usefulness of the POC test in screening the general population of first-grade schoolchildren. Further research is needed to establish the true epidemiology of CD in Primorje-Gorski Kotar County and to confirm the value of the rapid test in comparison with standard antibody CD testing.
Adaptive Chattering‐Free Sliding Mode Control of Chaotic Systems with Unknown Input Nonlinearity via Smooth Hyperbolic Tangent Function
Authors: Fang Jiunn-Shiou , Tsai Jason Sheng-Hong , Yan Jun-Juh , Guo Shu-Mei
Published: October 2019

The design of adaptive chattering‐free sliding mode controller (SMC) for chaotic systems with unknown input nonlinearities is studied in this paper. A smooth hyperbolic tangent function is utilized to replace the discontinuous sign function; therefore, the proposed adaptive SMC ensures that not only the chaos phenomenon can be suppressed effectively but also the chattering often appearing in the traditional discontinuous SMC with sign function is eliminated, even when the unknown input nonlinearity is present. A sufficient condition for stability of closed‐loop system is acquired by Lyapunov theory. The numerical simulation results are illustrated to verify the proposed adaptive sliding mode control method.
Consolidation Analysis of Ideal Sand‐Drained Ground with Fractional‐Derivative Merchant Model and Non‐Darcian Flow Described by Non‐Newtonian Index
Authors: Liu Zhongyu , Cui Penglu , Zhang Jiachao , Xia Yangyang
Published: October 2019

To further investigate the rheological consolidation mechanism of soft soil ground with vertical drains, the fractional‐derivative Merchant model (FDMM) is introduced to describe the viscoelastic behavior of saturated clay around the vertical drains, and the flow model with the non‐Newtonian index is employed to describe the non‐Darcian flow in the process of rheological consolidation. Accordingly, the governing partial differential equation of the ideal sand‐drained ground with coupled radial‐vertical flow is obtained under the assumption that the vertical strains develop freely. Then, the numerical solution to the consolidation system is conducted using the implicit finite difference method. The validity of this method is verified by comparing the results of Barron’s consolidation theory. Furthermore, the effects of the parameters of non‐Darcian flow and FDMM on the rheological consolidation of ground with vertical drains are illustrated and discussed.
Evaluation of Waterlogging Risk in an Urban Subway Station
Authors: Yu Haiying , Liang Chuan , Li Ping , Niu Kaijie , Du Faxing , Shao Junhu , Liu Yuyong
Published: October 2019

Most cities in the world have extensive underground facilities, including public transport and commercial facilities, such as shopping malls, subways, and parks. Safety of underground space has been an important aspect of urban safety. Due to the influences of global climate change and human activities, waterlogging disasters in cities are becoming increasingly serious and underground facilities easily suffer from waterlogging disasters. Moreover, waterlogging disasters in cities can cause different degrees of damage to construction period and operating period of urban subway stations. By using the optimal combination weighting method combining subjective and objective weighting, this study assigned weights to evaluation factors. Based on this, a fuzzy synthetic evaluation model for waterlogging risk in the construction and operating periods of urban subway stations was established. Furthermore, the model was applied and verified to be effective in Chengdu Metro Line 4, Sichuan province, China, and the evaluation results coincided with the actual situation. The model in the study provides a new idea for evaluating waterlogging risks in urban subway stations, and these results can offer important information for local government to strengthen management on waterlogging risks.
Carbon Nanotube Effect on the Ductility, Flexural Strength, and Permeability of Concrete
Authors: Mohsen Mohamed O. , Al Ansari Mohamed S. , Taha Ramzi , Al Nuaimi Nasser , Taqa Ala Abu
Published: October 2019

Recently, remarkable types of carbon nanofilaments called carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have raised the interest of many concrete and cementitious composite researchers due to their significant mechanical, electrical, thermal, kinetic, and chemical properties. These nanofilaments are considered promising applicants to use in producing high-performance cement-based composite materials. In this research, the effect of CNT use on the flexural strength, strain capacity, permeability, and microstructure of concrete was investigated. Concrete batches of 0, 0.03, 0.08, 0.15, and 0.25 wt.% CNTs were prepared using a mixing method that consisted of a 30-minute solution sonication and a 60-minute batch mixing. On the 28th day, the mechanical properties were determined. The results indicated that concrete prepared using high CNT contents of 0.15 and 0.25 wt.% increased the flexural strength by more than 100% in comparison with 0% CNT concrete. Furthermore, the results showed that CNTs would increase the ductility of concrete beams by about 150%. The permeability test results showed the benefits of CNT inclusion in reducing the permeability of concrete. The permeability coefficient (kT) decreased by at least 45% when CNTs were added to concrete. A qualitative microstructural analysis illustrated the uniform dispersion of CNT filaments within the concrete hydration products in all batches.
Assessing the Applicability of Random Forest, Stochastic Gradient Boosted Model, and Extreme Learning Machine Methods to the Quantitative Precipitation Estimation of the Radar Data: A Case Study to Gwangdeoksan Radar, South Korea, in 2018
Authors: Shin Ju-Young , Ro Yonghun , Cha Joo-Wan , Kim Kyu-Rang , Ha Jong-Chul
Published: October 2019

Machine learning algorithms should be tested for use in quantitative precipitation estimation models of rain radar data in South Korea because such an application can provide a more accurate estimate of rainfall than the conventional ZR relationship-based model. The applicability of random forest, stochastic gradient boosted model, and extreme learning machine methods to quantitative precipitation estimation models was investigated using case studies with polarization radar data from Gwangdeoksan radar station. Various combinations of input variable sets were tested, and results showed that machine learning algorithms can be applied to build the quantitative precipitation estimation model of the polarization radar data in South Korea. The machine learning-based quantitative precipitation estimation models led to better performances than ZR relationship-based models, particularly for heavy rainfall events. The extreme learning machine is considered the best of the algorithms used based on evaluation criteria.
A Novel Markov Model-Based Low-Power and Secure Multihop Routing Mechanism
Authors: Yang Songxiang , Ma Lin , Jia Shuang , Qin Danyang
Published: October 2019

For the severe impact of limited energy and network attacks caused by open transmission channels on data transmission, this paper presents a low-power and secure multihop routing mechanism based on the Markov state transition theory. The random selection of transmission paths enables the network to resist typical attacks such as interference and interception, thus ensuring the security of data transmission. Meanwhile, the proposed algorithm can reduce the overall energy consumption of the network and balance the load according to the residual energy of each path. Simulation results prove that the routing mechanism proposed in this paper can improve the energy efficiency and the security of the wireless ad hoc network.
ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: A Simulation Case for Evaluation of Interprofessional Performance in a Hospital
Authors: Habib Hadiki , Ginanjar Eka , Mansjoer Arif , Sulistio Septo , Albar Imamul A. , Mulyana Radi M.
Published: October 2019

Introduction. Interprofessional collaboration between units in a hospital is essential in order to reach desired time for primary percutaneous intervention (PCI) in acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) cases. We developed a simulation to engage various medical and nonmedical staff in interprofessional and interunit team collaboration. Method. We used a scenario in this simulation. Beginning in the emergency department, it detailed a 50-year-old male presenting with progressive chest pain since 7 hours before admission. The emergency team directly examined the patient, and STEMI diagnosis was made, followed by sending the patient to the cardiac catheterization laboratory to undergo primary PCI. A resuscitation kit was required for the simulation. An evaluation sheet was prepared to evaluate every step of patient management. Three judges observed the simulation. At the end of the simulation, debriefing was done, and recommendation for the simulation was discussed. Besides medical activities during patient management, interprofessional communication, administration activities, consultations, and handover process were also evaluated. Results. The team achieved the appropriate door-to-electrocardiogram (ECG) time in 8 minutes, but overall target was delayed since door-to-skin puncture time was reached in 110 minutes. Some factors that contributed to these conditions were long waiting time during patient admission, several attempts for telephone consultation to the cardiologist, and prolonged admission process in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. Conclusions. The simulation was well received by both participant and our institution, stating that it is a valuable resource for developing interdisciplinary learning program. This simulation also contributed to the development of the clinical pathway, STEMI protocol, in our institution.
Analysis of the Occurrence Mechanism for Coal and Gas Outburst Based on Multiple Discriminant Indices
Authors: Rong Hai , Zhang Hongwei , Liang Bing , Song Weihua
Published: October 2019

In order to reveal the occurrence mechanism of coal and gas outburst and optimize the measures to prevent the disaster, a coal mine in Henan Province was undertaken as the research background. Based on the geological and mining conditions of the coal mine, the gas geological analysis method is applied to determine the outburst occurrence and to classify the risk levels. A multifactor pattern recognition method is used to determine the risk probability of the dynamic disasters such as coal and gas outburst. The relationship between geological structure, rock mass stress, and mine dynamic hazards is determined using geo‐dynamic division method and FLAC3D numerical simulation. The occurrence and manifestation characteristics of the dynamic hazards are determined. COMSOL Multiphysics software is used to evaluate the original prevention measures and to optimize the measures. The research results determine the main influencing factors and regional distribution law of coal and gas outburst, which is of great significance to the risk prediction and prevention of dynamic disasters such as coal and gas outburst.
Wnt Signaling Protects against Paclitaxel-Induced Spiral Ganglion Neuron Damage in the Mouse Cochlea In Vitro
Authors: Wang Xue , Han Yuechen , Wang Man , Bo Chuan , Zhang Zhenbiao , Xu Lei , Liu Wenwen , Wang Haibo
Published: October 2019

It has been reported that paclitaxel administration could cause sensorineural hearing loss, and Wnt activation is important for the development and cell protection of mouse cochlea. However, the effect of Wnt signaling in spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) damage induced by paclitaxel has not yet been elucidated. In this study, we explored the effect of paclitaxel on SGNs in the mouse cochlea and the neuroprotective effects of Wnt signaling pathway against paclitaxel-induced SGN damage by using Wnt agonist/antagonists in vitro. We first found that paclitaxel treatment resulted in a degenerative change and reduction of cell numbers in SGNs and induced caspase-mediated apoptosis in SGNs. The expression levels of β-catenin and C-myc were increased, thus indicating Wnt signaling was activated in SGNs after paclitaxel treatment. The activation of Wnt signaling pathway protected against SGN loss after exposure to paclitaxel, whereas the suppression of Wnt signaling in SGNs made them more vulnerable to paclitaxel treatment. We also showed that activation of Wnt signaling in SGNs inhibited caspase-mediated apoptosis. Our findings demonstrated that Wnt signaling had an important role in protecting SGNs against paclitaxel-induced damage and thus might be an effective therapeutic target for the prevention of paclitaxel-induced SGN death.
Th1- and Th17-Related Cytokines in Venous and Arterial Blood of Sclerodermic Patients with and without Digital Ulcers
Authors: Nicola S. , Fornero M. , Fusaro E. , Peroni C. , Priora M. , Rolla G. , Bucca C. , Brussino L.
Published: October 2019

The earliest clinical manifestation of SSc is usually Raynaud’s phenomenon, a small-arteries vasospasm driven by vascular tone dysregulation and microcirculatory abnormalities, resulting in digital ulcers (DU) in up to 50% of patients. Many cytokines as well as growth factors have been shown to play a role in promoting vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and fibroblast activation, leading to ischemic damage as well as skin fibrosis. We aim to investigate a possible difference in venous and arterial blood levels of many cytokines (Th1- and Th17-related), GM-CSF, and endothelin-1 (ET1) in patients with and without DU. In the same patients, the correlations between capillary damage, evaluated by nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC), extension of skin fibrosis, calculated by modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS), and cytokines, ET-1, and GM-CSF levels were also measured. Patients with DU showed venous levels of IL-1β (p=0.024), IL-6 (p=0.012), IL-22(p=0.006), and TGF-β (p=0.046) significantly higher compared to arterial levels and arterial levels of GM-CSF and TNF-alpha significantly higher compared to venous levels (p<0.001). NVC abnormalities were correlated with arterial TNFa and venous IL22, IL23, and IL17 levels and negatively correlated with venous ET-1 levels, whereas mRSS showed a negative correlation with IL-21(ρ = −0.427, p=0.050). The increased Th17-cytokine levels in venous compared to arterial blood of patients with DU suggest local cytokine production on ulcer site. The higher TNFa and GM-CSF levels in arterial blood of DU patients support the attempt to mitigate the hypoxic damage, and the correlation between Th17-cytokines, mRSS, NVC, and ET1 agrees with the potent profibrotic stimulus at the onset of the disease, which decreases as the SSc progresses.
Characterization and Evaluation of HGF-Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles in a CCl4-Induced Acute Liver Injury Mouse Model
Authors: Lin Chuxi , Wang Xueer , Liu Nuyun , Peng Qing , Li Yang , Zhang Lin , Gao Yi
Published: October 2019

Liver injury can be caused by various harmful factors since the liver is considered the key organ for detoxifying endogenous and exogenous substances. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) can regulate redox homeostasis through the expression of antioxidant proteins when the liver is under injury. However, HGF is easily degraded. In this study, we produced three kinds of HGF-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles with an initial addition of 2 μg HGF (NPs-HGF-2 μg), 4 μg HGF (NPs-HGF-4 μg), and drug-free nanoparticles (NPs) using the W/O/W emulsion-solvent evaporation method in accordance with our patent. The morphology and physical characteristics were analyzed, and effects of HGF-loaded PLGA nanoparticles on a CCl4-induced acute liver injury mouse model were investigated and compared with HGF solutions. We observed that the morphology and the physical characteristics of the nanoparticles were almost the same, with similar sizes, polydispersity, and zeta potential. HGF-loaded PLGA nanoparticles maintained higher HGF concentrations for a longer period of time in blood and liver tissues. HGF-loaded PLGA nanoparticles increased the SOD activity and GPX levels, decreased the MDA levels in the liver, reduced the necrotic areas of the liver, and decreased the levels of AST, ALT, ALP, T-BIL, BUN, and Scr in blood. In conclusion, our technique for preparing HGF-loaded PLGA nanoparticles was stable and the products were of good quality. HGF-loaded PLGA nanoparticles could provide greater therapeutic benefits on CCl4-induced acute liver injury, including antilipid peroxidation and a reduction in indicator enzymes of liver injury.
Pueraria lobata and Daidzein Reduce Cytotoxicity by Enhancing Ubiquitin-Proteasome System Function in SCA3-iPSC-Derived Neurons
Authors: Chen I-Cheng , Chang Kuo-Hsuan , Chen Yi-Jing , Chen Yi-Chun , Lee-Chen Guey-Jen , Chen Chiung-Mei
Published: October 2019

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder caused by a CAG repeat expansion within the ATXN3/MJD1 gene. The expanded CAG repeats encode a polyglutamine (polyQ) tract at the C-terminus of the ATXN3 protein. ATXN3 containing expanded polyQ forms aggregates, leading to subsequent cellular dysfunctions including an impaired ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). To investigate the pathogenesis of SCA3 and develop potential therapeutic strategies, we established induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines from SCA3 patients (SCA3-iPSC). Neurons derived from SCA3-iPSCs formed aggregates that are positive to the polyQ marker 1C2. Treatment with the proteasome inhibitor, MG132, on SCA3-iPSC-derived neurons downregulated proteasome activity, increased production of radical oxygen species (ROS), and upregulated the cleaved caspase 3 level and caspase 3 activity. This increased susceptibility to the proteasome inhibitor can be rescued by a Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) extract NH037 (from Pueraria lobata) and its constituent daidzein via upregulating proteasome activity and reducing protein ubiquitination, oxidative stress, cleaved caspase 3 level, and caspase 3 activity. Our results successfully recapitulate the key phenotypes of the neurons derived from SCA3 patients, as well as indicate the potential of NH037 and daidzein in the treatment for SCA3 patients.
Expectant Management of a Twin Pregnancy with Complete Hydatidiform Mole and Coexistent Normal Fetus
Authors: Johnson Colin , Davitt Caroline , Harrison Rachel , Cruz Meredith
Published: October 2019

Twin pregnancies complicated by complete hydatidiform mole coexisting with a viable fetus are rare and may result in significant complications. We describe the expectant management and our surgical approach in a 27-year-old Rh-negative woman presenting with recurrent episodes of vaginal bleeding and a twin pregnancy consisting of a molar pregnancy coexisting with a normal fetus. Inpatient management was undertaken with close maternal and fetal monitoring until cesarean delivery of a healthy female infant and histopathologically confirmed complete hydatidiform molar pregnancy (karyotype 46XX) at 34 weeks with no evidence of malignancy.
Carbon-Coated SnO2/Ti3C2 Composites with Enhanced Lithium Storage Performance
Authors: Wang Zijing , Wang Fen , Liu Kaiyu , Zhu Jianfeng , Waras Abdul
Published: October 2019

Tin-based anode materials including oxides, composites oxides, and tin-based alloys are identified as promising candidates for energy storage attributed to the highest theoretical specific capacity. We introduce Ti3C2-MXene as structural skeletons and amorphous carbon as conductive networks for tin oxide in this work. Herein, carbon-coated kernel-like SnO2 coupling with two-dimensional (2D) layered structure Ti3C2-MXene (C@SnO2/Ti3C2) composites were prepared by a hydrothermal reaction and a further calcination process. The fabricated C@SnO2/Ti3C2 nanocomposites exhibit smaller charge transfer resistance, larger Li+ diffusion coefficient, and better cycling stability than SnO2/Ti3C2 and pure Ti3C2. Most of all, C@SnO2/Ti3C2 nanocomposites display excellent initial capacity of 1531.5 mAh g−1 at current density of 100 mA g−1 and show outstanding rate performance of 540 mAh g−1even after 200 cycles. In our work, we will provide a new research idea for the composite materials of metal oxides and two-dimensional layered materials in the field of electrode materials for batteries.
Co-Channel Coexistence Analysis between 5G IoT System and Fixed-Satellite Service at 40 GHz
Authors: Meng Xi , Zhong Liyuan , Zhou Dong , Yang Dacheng
Published: October 2019

It is a promising way to successfully operate the fifth generation (5G) system with Internet of Things (IoT) in potential mmWave spectrum bands. This paper investigates the intelligent co-channel coexistence between the 5G IoT system and the fixed-satellite service (FSS) system at 40 GHz. The key issue, as identified, is the accurate estimation of interference based on mmWave propagation characteristics. Our simulation results reveal that interference from the 5G IoT system into the FSS ground stations can be kept below the protection threshold by considering different deployment parameters, such as antenna patterns, height of Earth station (ES), and separation distance.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Pediatric and Adult Intracranial and Spinal Ependymomas
Authors: Shi Siyu , Jin Michael C. , Koenig Julie , Gibbs Iris C. , Soltys Scott G. , Chang Steven D. , Li Gordon , Hayden Gephart Melanie , Hiniker Susan M. , Pollom Erqi L.
Published: October 2019

Objective/Background: We report efficacy and toxicity outcomes with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for intracranial and spinal ependymoma. Methods: We analyzed adult and pediatric patients with newly diagnosed or recurrent intracranial or spinal ependymoma lesions treated with SRS at our institution. Following SRS, local failure (LF) was defined as failure within or adjacent to the SRS target volume, while distant failure (DF) was defined as failure outside of the SRS target volume. Time to LF and DF was analyzed using competing risk analysis with death as a competing risk.Overall survival (OS) was calculated from the date of first SRS to the date of death or censored at the date of last follow-up using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: Twenty-one patients underwent SRS to 40 intracranial (n = 30) or spinal (n = 10) ependymoma lesions between 2007 and 2018, most commonly with 18 or 20 Gy in 1 fraction. Median follow-up for all patients after first SRS treatment was 54 months (range 2–157). The 1-year, 2-year, and 5-year rates of survival among patients with initial intracranial ependymoma were 86, 74, and 52%, respectively. The 2-year cumulative incidences of LF and DF after SRS among intracranial ependymoma patients were 25% (95% CI 11–43) and 42% (95% CI 22–60), respectively. No spinal ependymoma patient experienced LF, DF, or death within 2 years of SRS. Three patients had adverse radiation effects. Conclusions: SRS is a viable treatment option for intracranial and spinal ependymoma with excellent local control and acceptable toxicity.
Paediatric Moyamoya Disease and Tourette’s Syndrome: An Unusual Association Responding Favourably to Direct and Indirect Cerebral Revascularisation Surgery
Authors: Bose Ratnadip , Banerjee Anirban Deep
Published: October 2019

Background: Moyamoya disease, an uncommon chronic intra-cerebral arteriopathy asymmetrically affecting the proximal vasculature, is rarely associated with clinical features pertaining to movement disorders. Case Description: A 5-year-and-9-month-old boy developed repetitive episodic involuntary winking of the right eye along with ipsilateral shoulder shrugging movements in an absolutely conscious state, associated with paroxysmal shouts and loud laughs and punctuated with abusive verbal expressions (coprolalia). These episodic features, over the course of the next 1.5 years, got progressively accentuated by situations which evoked stress. In addition, there was progressive regression of verbal and cognitive milestones, emotional lability and aspects of attention deficit hyperkinetic disorder. The child was evaluated by a neurologist with magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, which showed characteristic ischaemic areas involving the basal ganglia and fronto-parietal cortical areas along the middle cerebral artery territory, predominantly on the left side. Subsequent cerebral angiography revealed extensive stenosis of bilateral (predominantly left-sided) internal cerebral arteries and middle cerebral arteries with evidence of diffuse leptomeningeal collaterals. The electroencephalography was reported to be normal. He was eventually diagnosed to be suffering from Moyamoya disease with associated Tourette’s syndrome. Subsequently, the child underwent left-sided superficial temporal artery to middle cerebral artery anastomosis along with encephalo-duro-arterio-myo-synangiosis. Significant clinico-radiological improvement was noted after 3 months. The clinical deficiencies had dramatically resolved. There was evidence of excellent development of both direct and indirect surgical collaterals along the left middle cerebral artery territory. He could go back to school. Conclusion: Ours is probably the first case reporting an association of paediatric Moyamoya disease with Tourette’s syndrome, which significantly resolved after cerebral revascularisation surgery.
Arterial Grafts for Coronary Bypass
Authors: Gaudino Mario , Bakaeen Faisal G. , Benedetto Umberto , Di Franco Antonino , Fremes Stephen , Glineur David , Girardi Leonard N. , Grau Juan , Puskas John D. , Ruel Marc , Tam Derrick Y. , Taggart David P. , Antoniades Charalambos , Patrono Carlo , Schwann Thomas A. , Tatoulis James , Tranbaugh Robert F.
Published: October 2019

Observational and randomized evidence shows that arterial grafts have better patency rates than saphenous vein grafts (SVGs) in coronary artery bypass grafting. Observational studies suggest that the use of multiple arterial grafts is associated with longer postoperative survival, but this must be interpreted in the context of treatment allocation bias and hidden confounders intrinsic to the study designs. Recently, a pooled analysis of 6 randomized trials comparing the radial artery with the SVG as the second conduit and the largest randomized trial comparing the use of single and bilateral internal thoracic arteries have provided apparently divergent results about a clinical benefit with the use of >1 arterial conduit. However, both analyses have methodological limitations that may have influenced their results. At present, it is unclear whether the well-documented increased patency rate of arterial grafts translates into clinical benefits in the majority of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. A large randomized trial testing the arterial grafts hypothesis (ROMA [Randomized Comparison of the Clinical Outcome of Single Versus Multiple Arterial Grafts]) is underway and will report the results in a few years.
Brain Prostaglandin D2 Increases Neurogenic Pressor Activity and Mean Arterial Pressure in Angiotensin II-Salt Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Asirvatham-Jeyaraj Ninitha , Jones A. Daniel , Burnett Robert , Fink Gregory D.
Published: October 2019

This study tested whether brain L-PGDS (lipocalin-type prostaglandin [PG] D synthase), through prostanoid signaling, might increase neurogenic pressor activity and thereby cause hypertension. Sprague Dawley rats on high-salt diet received either vehicle or Ang II (angiotensin II) infusion. On day 4, the developmental stage of hypertension, brains from different sets of control and Ang II–treated rats were collected for measuring L-PGDS expression, PGD2 levels, and DP1R (type 1 PGD2 receptor) expression. In a different set of 14-day Ang II-salt–treated rats, mini-osmotic pumps were used to infuse either a nonselective COX (cyclooxygenase) inhibitor ketorolac, L-PGDS inhibitor AT56, or DP1R inhibitor BWA868C to test the role of brain COX-PGD2-DP1R signaling in Ang II-salt hypertension. The acute depressor response to ganglion blockade with hexamethonium was used to quantify neurogenic pressor activity. During the developmental stage of Ang II-salt hypertension, L-PGDS expression was higher in cerebrospinal fluid, and PGD2 levels were increased in the choroid plexus, cerebrospinal fluid, and the cardioregulatory brain region rostral ventrolateral medulla. DP1R expression was decreased in rostral ventrolateral medulla. Both brain COX inhibition with ketorolac and L-PGDS inhibition with AT56 lowered mean arterial pressure by altering neurogenic pressor activity compared with vehicle controls. Blockade of DP1R with BWA868C, however, increased the magnitude of Ang II-salt hypertension and significantly increased neurogenic pressor activity. In summary, we establish that the development of Ang II-salt hypertension requires increased COX- and L-PGDS–derived PGD2 production in the brain, making L-PGDS a possible target for treating neurogenic hypertension.
Flow Diverters for Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Gory Benjamin , Berge Jerome , Bonafé Alain , Pierot Laurent , Spelle Laurent , Piotin Michel , Biondi Alessandra , Cognard Christophe , Mounayer Charbel , Sourour Nader , Barbier Charlotte , Desal Hubert , Herbreteau Denis , Chabert Emmanuel , Brunel Hervé , Ricolfi Frédéric , Anxionnat René , Decullier Evelyne , Huot Laure , Turjman Francis ,   DIVERSION Investigators, Barreau Xavier , Menegon Patrice , Marnat Gaultier , Costalat Vincent , Gascou Gregory , Dargazanli Cyril , Soize Sébastien , Metaxas Georges , Moret Jacques , Ikka Léon , Caroff Jildaz , Rouchaud Aymeric , Mihaela Christian , Benachour Nidal , Blanc Raphaël , Redjem Hocine , Pomero Elisa , Januel Anne Christine , Darcout Julien , Guenego Adrien , Tall Philippe , Bonneville Fabrice , Saleme Suzana , Clarençon Frédéric , Bourcier Romain , Narata Ana Paula , Bibi Richard , Bracard Serge , Derelle Anne-Laure , Tonnelet Romain , Liao Liang , Kulcsar Zsolt , Taschner Christian
Published: October 2019

Background and Purpose—

Flow diverters are used for endovascular therapy of intracranial aneurysms. We did a nationwide prospective study to investigate the safety and effectiveness of flow diversion at 12 months.

Methods—

DIVERSION was a national prospective cohort study including all flow diverters placement between October 2012 and February 2014 in France. The primary end point was the event-free survival rate at 12 months, defined as the occurrence of morbidity (intracranial hemorrhage, ischemic stroke, noncerebral hemorrhage, or neurological deficit due to mass effect), retreatment, or death within 12 months post-treatment. A quality control was carried out on 100% of the collected data and of at least 10% of the included patients in each center, chosen at random. All reported serious events were adjudicated by an independent Data Safety and Monitoring Board. Satisfactory occlusion was defined as 3 or 4 on Kamran scale by an independent imaging core laboratory at 12 months.

Results—

We enrolled 398 patients harboring 477 intracranial aneurysms. At least 1 morbidity-mortality event was noted in 95 of 408 interventions representing an event-free survival rate of 75.7% (95% CI, 71.1–79.7). The rate of permanent-related serious events and mortality was 5.9% and 1.2% at 12 months, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that high baseline blood pressure (hazard ratio, 2.54; 95% CI, 1.35–4.79;
P
=0.039), diabetes mellitus (hazard ratio, 3.70; 95% CI, 1.60–8.6;
P
=0.0022), and larger aneurysms (hazard ratio, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.04–1.11;
P
<0.0001) were associated with the occurrence of a neurological deficit. The satisfactory occlusion rate at 12 months was 79.9%, and the absence of high baseline blood pressure (odds ratio, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.12–3.71;
P
=0.0193) and postprocedural satisfactory occlusion (odds ratio, 2.75; 95% CI, 1.49–5.09;
P
=0.0012) were associated with a 12-month satisfactory occlusion.

Conclusions—

A satisfactory occlusion was achieved in almost 80% of cases after flow diverter treatment with a permanent-related serious event and mortality rates of 5.9% and 1.2% at 12 months, respectively.
Vepoloxamer Enhances Fibrinolysis of tPA (Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator) on Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wang Chunyang , Huang Rui , Li Chao , Lu Mei , Emanuele Martin , Zhang Zheng Gang , Chopp Michael , Zhang Li
Published: October 2019

Background and Purpose—

Thrombolytic treatment of acute ischemic stroke with tPA (tissue-type plasminogen activator) is hampered by its narrow therapeutic window and potential hemorrhagic complication. Vepoloxamer is a nonionic surfactant that exerts potent hemorheologic and antithrombotic properties in various thrombotic diseases. The current study investigated the effect of vepoloxamer on tPA treatment in a rat model of embolic stroke.

Methods—

Male Wistar rats subjected to embolic middle cerebral artery occlusion were treated with the combination of vepoloxamer and tPA, vepoloxamer alone, tPA alone, or saline initiated 4 hours after middle cerebral artery occlusion.

Results—

Monotherapy with tPA did not reduce infarct volume, and adversely potentiated microvascular thrombosis and vascular leakage compared with the saline treatment. Vepoloxamer monotherapy reduced infarct volume by 25% and improved brain perfusion. However, the combination treatment with vepoloxamer and tPA significantly reduced infarct volume by 32% and improved neurological function, without increasing the incidence of gross hemorrhage. Compared with vepoloxamer alone, the combination treatment with vepoloxamer and tPA robustly reduced secondary thrombosis and tPA-augmented microvascular leakage and further improved brain perfusion, which was associated with substantial reductions of serum active PAI-1 (plasminogen activator inhibitor-1) level and tPA-upregulated PAI-1 in the ischemic brain. Mechanistically, exosomes derived from platelets of ischemic rats treated with tPA-augmented cerebral endothelial barrier permeability and elevated protein levels of PAI-1 and TF (tissue factor) in the endothelial cells, whereas exosomes derived from platelets of rats subjected to the combination treatment with vepoloxamer and tPA diminished endothelial permeability augmented by tPA and fibrin and reduced PAI-1 and TF levels in the endothelial cells.

Conclusions—

The combination treatment with vepoloxamer and tPA exerts potent thrombolytic effects in rats subjected to acute ischemic stroke. Vepoloxamer reduces tPA-aggravated prothrombotic effect of platelet-derived exosomes on cerebral endothelial cells, which may contribute to the therapeutic effect of the combination treatment.