bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Left Atrial Spontaneous Echo Contrast Occurring in Patients with Low CHADS2 or CHA2DS2-VASc Scores
Authors: Akamatsu Kanako , Ito Takahide , Ozeki Michishige , Miyamura Masatoshi , Sohmiya Koichi , Hoshiga Masaaki
Published: April 2020

Background: Left atrial spontaneous echo contrast (LASEC) is common in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), although scarce information exists regarding LASEC occurring in AF patients with low thromboembolic risk scores. We investigated prevalence and determinants of LASEC under low CHADS 2 or CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc scores. Methods: Among 713 patients with nonvalvular AF who underwent transesophageal echocardiography, 361 with a CHADS 2 score <2 (CHADS 2 group) and 227 with a CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score <2 (CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc group) were separately examined for clinical and echocardiographic findings. Results: LASEC was found in 80 patients of CHADS 2 group (22%) and in 44 of CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc group (19%). With multivariate logistic regression analysis, adjusted for non-paroxysmal AF, renal dysfunction, LA diameter ≥50 mm, left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction <50%, LV hypertrophy, and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) ≥200 pg/mL, it was demonstrated that for CHADS 2 group, “non-paroxysmal AF” (OR 5.86, 95%CI 3.21-10.7, P <0.001), BNP ≥200 pg/mL (Odds ratio 3.22, 95%CI 1.25-8.28, P = 0.015), and LV hypertrophy (Odds ratio 2.16, 95%CI 1.11-4.20, P = 0.024) were significant independent determinants of LASEC, and that for CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc group, “non-paroxysmal AF” (Odds ratio 3.42, 95%CI 1.53-7.65, P = 0.002) was a significant independent determinant of LASEC. Conclusions: LASEC was present in a considerable proportion of patients who had low CHADS 2 or CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc scores. Information on chronicity of AF, BNP, and LV hypertrophy may help identify patients at risk for thromboembolism.
Experimental Design of AL2O3/MWCNT/HDPE Hybrid Nanocomposites for Hip Joint Replacement
Authors: Dabees Sameh , Ahmed Bahaa , Sanad Mohamed , Elshalakny Abou Bakr
Published: April 2020

A hip fracture can be considered a major health issue facing the elderly fraction of humans. The loads exploited by the lower limbs are very acute and severe; in the femur, they can be several folds higher than the whole weight of the body. Mechanical properties like strength and hardness are challenging parameters which control the selection of the joint. In this research work, a modification has been performed by adding multi-layer carbon nanotubes to the High-density polyethylene thermoplastic polymer together with alumina. Prepared material well physiochemically characterized to check the morphology and the structure. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) dedicates that the percentage of crystallization has been increased to 6% after adding Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT)to the polymer. According to mechanical properties results, MWCNTs successfully increase in young’s module and hardness of the polymer. Optimization of the materials ration has been done and it has been found that hybrid composite with structure (2.4% AL 2 O 3 and 0.6% MWCNT) obtains high mechanical properties compared to other ratios with 3% MWCNTs and 5% MWCNTs. Also, moisture absorption decreased to 90% at with 5% MWCNT ratio. Experimental results of MTT assay of a normal human epithelial cell line (1- BJ1) over AL 2 O 3 /MWCNT@ HDPE showed a low value of cytotoxic activity, which proves that it is proper for medical use.AL 2 O 3 /MWCNT@HDPE composite showed promising results for further studies of artificial joints.
Numerical simulation of the influence of water vapor on gas explosions in a high-pressure environment
Authors: Zou Li , Yi Xin , Li Haitao , Liu Xixi , Deng Jun
Published: April 2020

Gas explosion seriously threaten the employees security and restrict the safe production of coal mines. Therefore, it is particularly essential to investigate the prevention and control of gas explosions. In this study, a two-dimensional numerical model of a spherical explosion tank was developed to explore the effects of water vapor on gas explosions in a high-pressure environment. Explosion parameters of 10% gas, 1 MPa pressure, and water vapor contents varying from 0% to 8% were simulated using FLUENT software. The results show that the maximum explosion pressure and temperature of the premixed gas gradually decrease with increasing water vapor content, i.e., when the water vapor content is increased from 0% to 8%, the maximum explosion pressure and temperature of the gas mixture decreases from 2.52 MPa and 2092 K under dry conditions to 1.62 MPa and 1714 K with 8% water vapor. The attenuation amplitude is also reduced upon the addition of steam. Water vapor in premixed gas therefore plays a vital role in suppressing gas explosions.
Close up to the Surface: Reflections on a Preliminary Forensic Study of Four Chinese Bronze Mirrors from a Hong Kong Private Collection
Authors: Liang Jiafang , Parker Quentin
Published: April 2020

This article presents an objective, forensic study undertaken within the HKU Architectural Conservation Laboratory (ACLab) conducted on 4 very different bronze mirrors from a private collection. They nominally cover the period from the Warring States (475-221BC), Han (206 BC to 220AD) and later Song (960-1279AD) dynasties. Comprehensive, non-invasive, analytical methods and techniques were applied in this endeavour, including microscopic observation of tool marks, patina, corrosion and any residual archaeological evidence. Ultraviolet radiation examination as well as pXRF analysis of the bronze alloy, corrosion products and any earthen encrustations were conducted. The combined results have revealed key alloy information of those four mirrors along with surface patina morphology and details of the corrosion products and residual surface archaeology. Three of the mirrors from the Warring States, late Han, and Song dynasties appear to be genuine artifacts based on the available forensic evidence presented. One other nominally also from the Warring States period has some indications of veracity but requires further study. The two Warring States mirrors appear to have been heavily cleaned, polished and treated with abrasives in modern times. This study shows that use of modern technologies for forensic investigation and evaluation of bronze mirrors that otherwise lack verifiable background information as to their origin can be a useful adjunct to expert appraisal.
Rapid Optimisation of Cellulolytic Enzymes Ratios in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae using in Vitro SCRaMbLE
Authors: Wightman Elizabeth L. I. , Kroukamp Heinrich , Pretorius Isak S. , Paulsen Ian T. , Nevalainen Helena K. M.
Published: April 2020

Background For the economic production of biofuels and other valuable products from lignocellulosic waste material, a consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) organism is required. With efficient fermentation capability and attractive industrial qualities, Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a preferred candidate and has been engineered to produce enzymes that hydrolyze cellulosic biomass. Efficient cellulose hydrolysis requires the synergistic action of several enzymes; with the optimum combined activity ratio dependent on the composition of the substrate. Results In vitro SCRaMbLE generated a library of plasmids containing different ratios of a β-glucosidase gene ( CEL3A ) from Saccharomycopsis fibuligera and an endoglucanase gene ( CEL5A ) from Trichoderma reesei . S. cerevisiae , transformed with the plasmid library, displayed a range of individual enzyme activities and synergistic capabilities. Furthermore, we show for the first time that BPNPG5 (Megazyme®) is a suitable substrate to determine synergistic Cel3A and Cel5A action and an accurate predictive model for this synergistic action was devised. Strains with highest BPNPG5 activity had an average CEL3A and CEL5A gene cassette copy number of 1.3 ± 0.6 and 0.8 ± 0.2 respectively (ratio of 1.6:1). Conclusions Here we describe a synthetic biology approach to rapidly optimize gene copy numbers to achieve efficient synergistic substrate hydrolysis. This study demonstrates how in vitro SCRaMbLE can be applied to rapidly combine gene constructs in various ratios to allow screening of synergistic enzyme activities for efficient substrate hydrolysis.
Neural-Fuzzy-Based Adaptive Sliding Mode Automatic Steering Control of Vision-based Unmanned Electric Vehicles
Authors: Guo Jinghua , Li Keqiang , Fan Jinjin , Luo Yugong , Wang Jingyao
Published: April 2020

This paper presents a novel neural-fuzzy-based adaptive sliding mode automatic steering control strategy to improve the driving performance of vision-based unmanned electric vehicles with time-varying and uncertain parameters. Primarily, the kinematic and dynamic models which accurately express the steering behaviors of vehicles are constructed, and in which the relationship between the look-ahead time and vehicle velocity is revealed. Then, in order to overcome the external disturbances, parametric uncertainties and time-varying features of vehicles, a neural-fuzzy-based adaptive sliding mode automatic steering controller is proposed to surprise the lateral dynamic behavior of unmanned electric vehicles, which includes an equivalent control law and an adaptive variable structure control law. In this novel automatic steering control system of vehicles, a neural network system is utilized for approximating the switching control gain of variable structure control law, and a fuzzy inference system is presented to adjust the thickness of boundary layer in real-time. The stability of closed-loop neural-fuzzy-based adaptive sliding mode automatic steering control system is proven using the Lyapunov theory. Finally, The results illustrate that the presented control scheme has the excellent properties in term of error convergence and robustness.
Multi-objective optimization in titanium powder mixed electrical discharge machining process parameters for die steels
Authors: Huu Phan Nguyen
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we propose a viable optimal solution for achieving multi-objective optimization in powder mixed electrical discharge machining (PMEDM) process parameters, using titanium powder. Taguchi–AHP–Deng’s method is used to solve the multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) problem for this technology. The process parameters selected are workpiece material, electrode material, electrode polarity, pulse on time (Ton), pulse off time (Tof), current (I), and powder concentration. The material removal rate (MRR), tool wear rate (TWR), surface roughness (SR), hardness surface (HV), and white layer thickness (WLT) were determined simultaneously. The results showed that the optimal material for the workpiece is SKD11 die steel; the optimal material for the electrode is Gr; and the polarity of the electrode should be positive. The optimal values for the other process parameters were determined to be Ton = 20 μs, Tof = 57 μs, and I = 8 A, and that for the powder concentration was 10 g/l. The quality criteria for the optimal process parameters were determined to be MRR = 59.669 mm3/min, TWR = 14.073 mm3/min, SR = 4.45 μm, HV = 907.64 HV and WLT = 8.56 μm. The results were verified through experiments, which revealed a good accuracy (error ≈ 11.67%). The white-layer formation on the machined surface was reduced using titanium powder-based PMEDM for die steel at the optimal conditions. The results showed that Deng’s similarity method is the most suitable for MCDM in PMEDM using titanium powder.
Development and Verification of an Immune-Related Gene Pairs Prognostic Signature in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Wang Shengke , Zhang Bao , Nie Xiaocui , Miao Xinxin , Wang Shuo , Li Jing
Published: April 2020

Background: Ovarian cancer (OV) is the most common gynecological cancer and is a major cause of cancer-related death among women worldwide. Immunotherapy has recently been of great interest, and it has been proven to be an effective treatment strategy. For this reason, the work here attempts to produce a prognostic immune-related gene pair (IRGP) signature to estimate OV patient survival. Methods: The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases provided the genetic expression profiles and clinical data of OV patients, whose samples were divided into training, validation, and testing sets. The InnateDB database and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model, were used to build an IRGP signature. The functional enrichment analysis was performed to investigate the biological activities of IRGPs. Then, the correlation between risk scores and clinicopathological parameters was further analyzed. Finally, we compared our signature and four existing signatures for OV. Results: We first identified a 17-IRGP signature significantly associated with survival based on LASSO regression model. The average area under the curve (AUC) values of the training, validation, and all TCGA sets were 0.869, 0.712, and 0.778, respectively. In addition, the average AUC of the independent testing set was 0.73. The 17-IRGP signature noticeably split patients into high- and low-risk groups with different prognostic outcomes. As suggested by a functional study, some biological pathways, including the Toll-like receptor and chemokine signaling pathways, were significantly negatively correlated with risk scores; however, pathways such as the p53 and apoptosis signaling pathways had a positive correlation. Moreover, tumor stage III, IV, grade G1/G2, and G3/G4 samples had significant differences in risk scores. High- and low-risk groups of the four TCGA OV subtypes also had significant prognostic differences. When compared with four other signatures for OV, our 17-IRGP signature had better prognostic prediction performance. Conclusions: An effective 17-IRGP signature was produced to predict prognostic outcomes in OV, providing new insights into immunological biomarkers.
Co-encapsulation of HNF4α Overexpressing UMSCs and Human Primary Hepatocytes Ameliorates Mouse Acute Liver Failure
Authors: Kong Defu , Xu Huiming , Chen Mo , Yu Yeping , Qian Yongbing , Qin Tian , Tong Ying , Xia Qiang , Hang Hualian
Published: April 2020

Background: Acute liver failure (ALF) is a complicated condition that is characterized by global hepatocyte death and often requires immediate liver transplantation. However, this therapy is limited by shortage of donor organs. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and hepatocytes are two attractive sources of cell-based therapies to treat ALF. The combined transplantation of hepatocytes and MSCs is considered to be more effective for the treatment of ALF than single-cell transplantation. We have previously demonstrated that HNF4α-overexpressing human umbilical cord MSCs (HNF4α-UMSCs) promoted the expression of hepatic-specific genes. In addition, microencapsulation allows exchange of nutrients, forming a protective barrier to the transplanted cells. Moreover, encapsulation of hepatocytes improves the viability and synthetic ability of hepatocytes and circumvents immune rejection. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of microencapsulation of hepatocytes and HNF4α-UMSCs in ALF mice.Methods: Human hepatocytes and UMSCs were obtained from liver and umbilical cord separately, followed by co-encapsulation and transplantation into mice by intraperitoneal injection. LPS/D-gal was used to induce ALF by intraperitoneal injection 24 h after transplantation. In addition, Raw 264.7cells (a macrophage cell line) were used to elucidate the effect of HNF4α-UMSCs-hepatocyte microcapsules on polarization of macrophages. The protein chip of conditioned mediums (CMs) of UMSCs and HNF4α-UMSCs were used to define the important paracrine factors and investigate the possible mechanism of HNF4α-UMSCs for the treatment of ALF in mice.Results: HNF4α-UMSCs can enhance the function of primary hepatocytes in alginate–poly-L-lysine–alginate (APA) microcapsules. The co-encapsulation of both HNF4α-UMSCs and hepatocytes achieved better therapeutic response in ALF mice by promoting M2 macrophage polarization and inflammatory resolution effect mainly modulated by the paracrine factor HB-EGF from HNF4α-UMSCs.Conclusions: The present study confirms that the co-encapsulation of HNF4α-UMSC and hepatocytes could exert an efficient effect on ALF mainly by HB-EGF and provides a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of ALF.
Eating habits and physical activity in working adults: a formative research
Authors: Badillo-Camacho N , Torres-Castro S , Bernal-Orozco MF , Torres-Carrillo NM , Altamirano-Martínez M , Rodríguez-Rocha NP , Cordero-Muñoz AY , Ojeda Gabriela Macedo
Published: April 2020

Background: Eating habits and physical activity are important factors for the development and prevention of non-communicable diseases. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyse the beliefs, behaviours, and experiences of dietary and physical activity habits based on the constructs of the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). Methods: An exploratory study with a qualitative methodology and a phenomenological study design was conducted using focus groups, in-depth interviews, and indirect non-participatory observation. The sessions were audio-recorded and transcribed with prior written informed consent. Data analysis was performed using a hybrid approach.Results: Workers reported that they do not eat vegetables or fruits daily; however, the consumption of fast food and sugary drinks was frequent. Participants’ behaviour is influenced by environmental factors such as reinforcements (economic bonus and company meetups & events), barriers (workplace policies) and facilitators (availability of drinking water, free tortillas , dining rooms, and recreational areas); and personal factors, such as low self-control when when choosing foods from the grains group (e.g. Mexican pastries, noodles and breads), and emotional confrontation (e.g. few workers try to use strategies to confront their emotions and avoid them from affecting their eating and physical activity). On the other hand, participants indicated not feeling capable of eating specific foods due to their taste, for example vegetables, and doing physical activity due to factors such as time. Finally, other key elements influencing workers’ behaviours were observational learning (participants eating behaviour and physical activity are influenced by their coworkers and family’s behaviours), social support (coworkers and family) and outcome expectations (participants’ hoping to improve their health by eating healthy and physical activity behaviours).Conclusions: Workers’s eating behaviour and physical activity could be modified if different influencing factors are simultaneously addressed. These findings will contribute to the development of worksite health programs, based on the SCT, to address the key factors that could improve workers’ eating behaviours and physical activity. Keywords: Eating habits, physical activity, adults, workers, workplace programs, qualitative research, Social Cognitive Theory.
Measurement of CSF core Alzheimer Disease biomarkers for routine clinical diagnosis: do fresh vs frozen samples differ?
Authors: Bellomo Giovanni , Cataldi Samuela , Paciotti Silvia , Paoletti Federico Paolini , Chiasserini Davide , Parnetti Lucilla
Published: April 2020

Background: cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) amyloid-beta (Aβ) 42/40 ratio, threonine-181-phosphorylated-tau (p-tau) and total-tau (t-tau) represent core biomarkers of Alzheimer Disease (AD). The recent availability of automated platforms has represented a significant achievement for reducing the pre-analytical variability of these determinations in clinical setting. With respect to classical manual ELISAs, these platforms give us also the possibility to measure any single sample and to get the result within approximately 30 min. So far, reference values have been calculated from measurements obtained in frozen samples. In this work, we wanted to check if the values obtained in fresh CSF samples differ from those obtained in frozen samples, since this issue is mandatory in routine diagnostic work.Methods: fifty-eight consecutive CSF samples have been analyzed immediately after lumbar puncture and after one-month deep freezing (-80°C). As automated platform we used Lumipulse G600-II (Fujirebio Inc.). Both the fresh and the frozen aliquots were analyzed in their storage tubes.Results: in fresh samples, a mean increase of Aβ40 (6%), Aβ42 (2%), p-tau (2%) and t-tau (4%) was observed as compared to frozen samples, whereas a slight decrease was observed for Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio (4%), due to the higher deviation of Aβ40 in fresh samples compared to Aβ42.These differences are significant for Aβ40, Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio, p-tau and t-tau. Nevertheless, Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio showed a lower variability (smaller standard deviation of relative differences) with respect to Aβ42. With respect to the AD profile according to the A/T/(N) criteria for AD diagnosis, no significant changes in classification were observed when comparing results obtained in fresh vs frozen samples.Conclusions: small but significant differences have been found for Aβ40, Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio, p-tau and t-tau in fresh vs frozen samples. Importantly, these differences did not imply a modification in the A/T/(N) classification system. In order to know if different cut-offs for fresh and frozen samples are required, larger, multi-center investigations are needed.
Real-world efficacy of the impulse oscillometry system for the management of bronchial asthma
Authors: Sugawara Hiroyuki , Saito Atsushi , Yokoyama Saori , Tsunematsu Kazunori , Chiba Hirofumi , Takahashi Hiroki
Published: April 2020

Background: Bronchial asthma (BA) has different phenotypes, and it requires a clinically effective subtype classification system. The impulse oscillometry system (IOS) is a novel device used in respiratory functional tests. However, its efficacy has not been validated. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the relationship between BA and the IOS parameters, and the difference in the therapeutic effects of inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) among the subtype classifications was evaluated using the IOS.Methods: The following ICSs were randomly prescribed in daily medical care: coarse-particle ICS (fluticasone propionate [FP]), fine-particle ICS (mometasone furoate [MF]), and moderate-particle ICS (budesonide [BUD]). The treatment effects were assessed using the Asthma Health Questionnaire (AHQ) and the Asthma Control Test (ACT), and were compared among the three subtypes (central predominant, peripheral predominant, and resistless) using the IOS.Results: In the central predominant type, the AHQ score of the MF group was significantly higher than that of the FP and BUD groups. In the peripheral predominant type, the MF group had a significantly lower AHQ than the FP group. In the resistless type, no significant difference was observed in the AHQ scores among the three groups. Moreover, similar results were obtained in the study using ACTConclusions: A strong association was observed between IOS subtype classification and ICS particle size in terms of therapeutic efficiency in BA. This result indicates that the ICS particle size must be identified using the IOS subtype classification before treatment.
Temporal dynamics of the fecal microbiota in veal calves in a 6-month field trial
Authors: Massot Méril , Haenni Marisa , Nguyen Thu Thuy , Madec Jean-Yves , Mentré France , Denamur Erick
Published: April 2020

BackgroundMaintaining a gut homeostasis during calf growth remains a challenge in the dairy industry, as enteric infections due to opportunistic pathogens are a main burden. Because of their high sensitivity to infections, calves are frequently treated with antibiotics, and the impact on the maturation of their microbiota is largely unknown. We conducted a field study on 45 calves distributed in three veal farms to follow the longitudinal dynamics of their fecal microbiota and of their commensal E. coli populations. We quantified the impact of collective antibiotic treatments received in a 15-days window before samplings on the microbiota diversity and the quantity of E. coli. In two farms, we also searched for associations between recommended daily doses of milk powder and bacterial abundances. ResultsThe time had a significant effect on the microbiota composition. A high heterogeneity was observed between calves after their arrival in farms, followed by an increase in similarity over time, which was concomitant with a decrease in proportion of newly detected OTUs in the samples. A switch of dominant genera, such as that of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium at early stages to Prevotella and Alloprevotella were observed as the calves aged. The Shannon index sharply increased during the first month, and then its increase slowed-down, and even stagnated in one farm. Calves receiving antibiotics had a less diverse microbiota and a reduced number of E. coli during the treatment or in the fifteen days following it compared to calves not exposed, although these effects were limited. We found moderate to strong positive associations between the dose of milk powder and the relative abundance of several genera, and also with the absolute number of E. coli.ConclusionsMassive and continuous bacterial successions happen during the maturation of the fecal microbiota of veal calves, resulting in major changes in the diversity and taxonomic composition. This observational study suggests that in such dynamical ecosystems, administration of collective antibiotic treatments results in a limited reduction of diversity and of the size of E. coli population, and highlights the need of additional work to fully understand the impact of antibiotic treatments.
Biodegradable hollow mesoporous organosilica nanotheranostics (HMON) for multi-mode imaging and mild photo-therapeutic-induced mitochondrial fusion on gastric cancer
Authors: Guo Weihong , Chen Zhian , Chen Jiajia , Feng Xiaoli , Yang Yang , Huang Huilin , Liang Yanrui , Shen Guodong , Liang Yu , Peng Chao , Li Yanbing , Li Guoxin , Huang Wenhua , Zhao Bingxia , Hu Yanfeng
Published: April 2020

CuS-modified hollow mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles (HMON@CuS) have been been preferred as non-invasive treatment for cancer, as near infrared (NIR)-induced photo-thermal effect (PTT) and/or photo-dynamic effect (PDT) could increase cancer cells’ apoptosis. However, the certain role of HMON@CuS-produced-PTT&PDT inducing gastric cancer (GC) cells’ mitochondrial fusion, remained unclear. Moreover, theranostic eﬃciency of HMON@CuS might be well improved by applying multi-modal imaging which could offer an optimal therapeutic region and time window. Herein, new nanotheranostics agents were reported by Gd doped HMON decorated by CuS nanocrystals (called HMON@CuS/Gd), which exhibited appropriate size distribution, good biocompatibility, L-Glutathione (GSH) responsive degradable properties, high photo-thermal conversion eﬃciency (82.4%) and a simultaneous reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation effect. Meanwhile, HMON@CuS/Gd could efficiently enter GC cells, induce combined PDT and mild PTT (43-45 °C) under mild NIR power density (0.8W/cm2). Surprisingly, it was found that PTT might not be the key factor of cell apoptosis, as ROS induced by PDT seems playing a more essential role. The NIR-induced ROS could attack mitochondrial membrane potentials (MTPs), then promote mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mitoROS) production. Meanwhile, mitochondrial fusion dramatically changed the expression of anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2) and pro-apoptotic protein (Bax). Since that, mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) was opened, followed by inducing more cytochrome c (Cyto C) releasing from mitochondria into cytosol, and finally activated caspase-9/caspase-3-depended cell apoptosis pathway. Our in vivo data also showed that HMON@CuS/Gd exhibited good fluorescence (FL) imaging (wrapping fluorescent agent), enhanced T1 imaging under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and infrared thermal (IRT) imaging capacities. Guided by FL/MRI/ IRT trimodal imaging, HMON@CuS/Gd could selectively cause mild photo-therapy at cancer region, efficiently inhibit the growth of GC cells without evident systemic toxicity in vivo. Taken together, HMON@CuS/Gd could serve as a promising multifunctional nanotheranostic platform and as a cancer photo-therapy agent through inducing mitochondrial fusion on GC.
A study on synthesis and characterization of Dy-dopedLa0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-δvia co precipitation method
Authors: Mohammadi Negin , Khakpour Zahra , Maghsoudipour Amir , Faeghinia Aida
Published: April 2020

The perovskite Lanthanum Strontium Cobalt Ferrite (LSCF) is investigated as the cathode material used in intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs). In the present study, La0.6-xDyxSr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-δ(x= 0, 0.3, 0.6) was synthesized through co precipitation method. The obtained precipitate was calcined at500, 700,900and 1000°С. Phase characterization of synthesized LSCF and LDySCF powder before and after heat treatment at 700°Сwas carried out by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. XRD patterns revealed that the perovskite phase was obtained at 700 °С in all calcined samples. Chemical bond study to investigate synthesis process was done using the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy technique. Thermalanalysis of DTA and TG has been utilized to investigate how the calcination temperature affects the peroveskite phase formation. According to the STA results, the perovskite phase formation started at 551°Сafterwarditcompleted at 700°С.The density values of synthesized powders were 6.10, 6.11 and 6.37g.cm-3for the undoped and doped samples calcined at 700°С. Powder morphology was studied by Field emission scanning electron microscopy. (FE-SEM) micrographs showed the spherical shaped particles with the average particle size of 24-131nm.
Clinical patterns and the evolution of relapsing polychondritis based on organ involvement: a Chinese retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhang Lei , Yun Shuang , Wu Tiange , He Yujie , Guo Jinyan , Han Lishuai , Lu Jiameng , Liu Xiaojun , Yang Rui , Zhang Shitao , Li Tianfang , Liu Shengyun
Published: April 2020

BackgroundRelapsing polychondritis(RPC) is a rare autoimmune disease, of which the diagnosis in early stage is challenging. Defining the clinical patterns and disease evolution may help early recognition of this rare disease.ResultsSixty-six males and 60 females were included with onset age of 47.1±13.8 years and followed up for a median of 18 months. Correlation analysis revealed a strong negative correlation between airway involvement and auricular chondritis (r=-0.75，P<0.001). Four distinct clinical patterns were identified: Ear pattern (50.8%), Airway pattern (38.9%), Overlap pattern (4.8%) and Airway-Ear negative pattern (5.6%) and patients with Ear pattern and Airway pattern were subdivided as limited and systemic form of RPC (27.8% with limited form of Ear pattern and 24.6% with limited form of Airway pattern). During follow-up, a small part of patients with Ear pattern and Airway pattern progressed into Overlap pattern and some Airway-Ear negative pattern patients progressed into Ear pattern. Most of the limited RPC patients remained limited form during follow-up while some patients with limited form progressed into systemic form. Patients with Ear pattern had the highest survival rate and relative lower inflammatory status.ConclusionsRPC patients can be categorized as 4 different clinical patterns and 2 distinct presenting forms (limited and systemic) based on organ involvement, and clinical patterns and presenting forms can evolve during follow-up. Our findings may facilitate early recognition of this rare disease and contribute to an updated classification criteria covering all the clinical spectrum of RPC
The Prevalence of Physical Inactivity in Iranian Children and the Impact of Economic and Social Inequalities on it: Results of a National Study in 2018
Authors: Moradi Ghobad , Mostafavi Farideh , Piroozi Bakhtiar , Zareie Bushra , Mahboobi Marzieh , Rasouli Mohammad Aziz Aziz
Published: April 2020

Background: Physical inactivity (PI) is a public health concern around the world that has been growing with the advent of technology. It has often been studied in adults. This study aims to determine the prevalence of physical inactivity in Iranian children aged 10-12 years and the impact of socioeconomic inequality on it.Methods: In this descriptive study, the study population consisted of 10-12 years old children from an Iranian population from Kurdistan, Fars and Markazi provinces in 2018. The sample size was 1590 individuals. The sampling method was cluster sampling. Data was collected using demographic questionnaire, modifiable activity questionnaire (MAQ) and socioeconomic questionnaire. Linear and logistic regression were used to estimate the final model and the Oaxaca analysis method was applied. All analyses were performed in Stata/SE 14.0.Results: Of the 1590 participants, 52.82% were male. The results showed that 25.79% of the subjects had physical inactivity and 7.30% had moderate physical activity during the week. The average physical activity during one week was more in boys than in girls (P-value<0.05). Children of mothers with secondary and high school education were more likely to have physical inactivity than mothers with a high school diploma or higher (AOR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.02 - 1.77). The concentration index was -.11, indicating a greater concentration of physical inactivity in children with low socioeconomic levels. Results: One-fourth of the study population had physical inactivity in this age group and required serious interventions. Socioeconomic levels, parental literacy, and children’s sex were factors affecting the level of physical activity. Raising parental awareness, designing specific programs for girls, such as increasing access to sports facilities, are strategies to reduce physical inactivity in children.
Abortion and the risk of suicide：a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zheng Linli , Yang Yi , Zhang Yonggang
Published: April 2020

Background Abortion had been suggested to be associated with the risk of suicide with inconclusive results. The objective of this study was to assess the association by systematic review and meta-analysis.Methods We searched PubMed, EMbase, PsycINFO, CNKI, WanFang Data and VIP databases for all studies investigating the association between abortion and the risk of suicide. We included Studies investigating the association between abortion and the risk of suicide. Two reviewers collected the data and assessed risk of bias of included studies. Outcomes included completed suicide, suicide behavior, and suicidal ideation. Data were analyzed by using Revman5.2 software. Results A total of 13 studies were included in the meta-analysis, including 1 case-control study, 6 cohort studies, and 6 cross-sectional studies. The results of meta-analysis showed that, abortion might be associated with increased risk of completed suicide (OR=3.16, 95CI 2.49 to 3.99, P <0.00001), suicide behavior (OR=1.92, 95CI 1.64 to 2.26, P <0.00001) and suicidal ideation (OR=1.52, 95%CI 1.32 to 1.75, P <0.00001).Conclusions The current meta-analysis suggested that abortion might be associated with increased risk of suicide. Due to the limited quality and quantity of included studies, more high-quality studies are needed to verify the above conclusions.
Cryoablation versus radiation therapy for low and intermediate risk localized prostate cancer: a propensity score-adjusted cohort analysis of oncologic outcomes
Authors: Chen Bo , Jin Kun , Qiu Shi , Chen Zeyu , Li Jin , Huang Yin , Lin Tianhai , Ai Jianzhong , liu liangren , Wei Qiang
Published: April 2020

Background: We are aiming to compare the oncologic outcomes between cryoablation and radiation therapy for low or intermediate risk localized prostate cancer. Methods : Among patients diagnosed between 2004 and 2016 in SEER databases, we identified cases confirmed low or intermediate risk prostate adenocarcinoma treated with radiation treatment (n = 93041) or cryoablation (n = 2350). Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed. Kaplan-Meier method, Cox proportional hazards model were used to calculate cancer specific mortality (CSM) and overall survival (OS) in the unmatched and matched cohort, and in subgroups based on clinical characteristics. Results: A total of 95391 patients who were diagnosed with first prostate adenocarcinoma and treated with radiation treatment (97.54%) or cryoablation (2.46%) were identified. In the matched cohort, cryoablation group has similar CSM (HR 1.13, 95%CI 0.72-1.77, P=0.6) and worse OS (HR 1.20, 95%CI 1.04-1.39, P=0.01) than radiation treatment group in the non-adjusted model as well as those in the adjusted model (HR 1.06, 95%CI 0.68-1.65, P=0.8; HR 1.18, 95%CI 1.02-1.36, P=0.02, respectively). For low risk disease, CSM and OS outcomes were similar between cryoablation and radiation treatment group. Last but not least, for intermediate risk patients, compared with radiation treatment group, cryoablation group has similar CSM (HR 1.26, 95%CI 0.90-1.77, P=0.2) and inferior OS (HR 1.17, 95%CI 1.04-1.32, P=0.01). Conclusion: In summary, for low risk disease, CSM and OS outcomes were similar between cryoablation and radiation treatment group. For intermediate risk disease, we found that radiation treatment group showed superior OS than cryoablation group.
Fast and slow-growing breeds: characterisation of broiler caecal microbiota development throughout the growing period
Authors: Dasí Laura Montoro , Villagra Arantxa , Toro Maria de , Pérez-Gracia María Teresa , Vega Santiago , Marin Clara
Published: April 2020

Background: The caecal microbiota and its modulation play an important role in animal health, productivity and disease control in poultry production. In this sense, it could be considered as a biomarker of poultry health. Furthermore, due to the emergence of resistant bacteria and the increasing social pressure to establish animal-friendly management on farms, producers are motivated to select more extensive and antibiotic-free breeds. It is therefore necessary to gain better knowledge on the development of major bacteria in healthy broilers, both in commercial fast-growing and in new slow-growing breeds. Hence, the aim of this study was to characterise caecal microbiota in two genetic poultry breeds throughout the growing period using 16S rRNA sequencing analysis. Results: A total of 50 caecal pools (25 per breed) were sequenced by the 16S rRNA method. The complexity of caecal microbiota composition increased significantly as animals grew. Furthermore, there were statistical differences between breeds at the end of the growing period. The dominant phyla throughout the production cycle were Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria. The predominantly identified genera were Ruminococcus spp., Lactobacillus spp. and Bacteroides spp.Conclusion: The results showed that the main caecal bacteria for both breeds were similar. Thus, these phyla or genera should be considered as biomarkers of poultry health in the evaluation of different treatments applied to animals.
Associations between vascular risk factors and subsequent Alzheimer’s disease in older adults
Authors: Lee Hyewon , Kim Kiwon , Lee Yeong Chan , Kim Soyeon , Won Hong-Hee , Yu Tae Yang , Lee Eun-Mi , Kang Jae Myeong , Lewis Matthew , Kim Doh Kwan , Myung Woojae
Published: April 2020

Background: The clinical guidelines related to the primary prevention of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have focused on the management of vascular risk factors. However, the link between vascular risk factors and AD in older adults remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the association between vascular risk factors and subsequent AD in 178,586 older adults (age: ≥65 years).Methods: Participants were recruited from 2009 through 2010 and followed up for 6 years. We assessed various vascular risk factors (total cholesterol [TC], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C], triglycerides [TG], fasting glucose [FG], systolic blood pressure [SBP], diastolic blood pressure [DBP], pulse pressure [PP] and body mass index [BMI]) and their association with AD incidence, categorizing each vascular factor using current clinical guidelines.Results: AD was observed in 6.0% of participants at follow-up. All lipid profiles (TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, TG) were positively associated with the risk of AD. SBP and PP were in negative associations with AD, and DBP was positively associated with AD. BMI exhibited a negative association with AD incidence. We found no significant association between FG and AD risk. The sex difference was observed to have effects on vascular risk factors.Conclusions: In this study, we comprehensively investigated the association between eight vascular risk factors and the risk of incident AD. Our findings suggest that multiple vascular risk factors are related to the development of AD in older adults. These results can help inform future guidelines for reducing AD risk.
Fiber metabolite butyrate reduces gp130 by targeting TRAF5 in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Yuan Yin , Li Bo , Kuang Yanbin , Ni Shuo , Zhuge Aoxiang , Yang Jing , Lv Longxian , Gu Silan , Yan Ren , Li Yating , Wang Kaicen , Yang Liya , Zhu Xueling , Wu Jingjing , Bian Xiaoyuan , Li Luanjuan
Published: April 2020

Background: Dietary fibers are effective for Colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and its adaptors are potential targets for CRC therapy. Butyrate, a metabolite of dietary fiber, is a new, highly safe type of targeted drug.Methods: In this study, Cell Counting Kit-8 cell viability and wound healing assays, western blot analysis, immunofluorescence staining and xenograft tumor mouse models were used to evaluate the anticancer effect of butyrate and its possible mechanism in vivo and in vitro.Results: Dietary fibers and sodium butyrate (NaB) decreased CRC burden by decreasing IL-6 receptor gp130 and blocking IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 axis activation in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, NaB reduced gp130 protein level by regulating its degradation rate via targeting TRAF5.Conclusions: Fiber metabolite butyrate inhibits CRC development by reducing gp130 via TRAF5.
Dietary behaviours associated with metabolic syndrome: a latent class analysis
Authors: Park Jung Ha , Kim Ju Young , Kim So Hye , Kim Jung Hyun , Park Young Mi , Yeom Hye seon
Published: April 2020

Background Obese individuals have a number of dietary behaviours that might contribute to their weight-related health risks. However, obesity defined solely by body mass index may not reflect the true heterogeneity of the obese population. The aims of this study were to classify the dietary behaviours of obese individuals into subgroups and to explore the relationship between their patterns of dietary behaviour and cardiometabolic risk factors. Methods The study participants were 259 patients who visited an outpatient weight management clinic at a tertiary hospital and underwent a dietary behaviour assessment between January 2014 and February 2019. Dietary behaviours were assessed in three domains with nine categories, including choice of food (frequent eating out, instant/fast/takeaway food), eating behaviour (irregular meals, frequent snacking, including eating at night, emotional eating, and overeating/binge eating), and nutrient intake (high fat/high calorie foods, salty food, and poorly balanced diet). Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to classify the subjects according to these nine categories of dietary behaviour. Associations between latent class and metabolic syndrome were assessed in a logistic regression model. Results Based on their dietary behaviour, the subjects were classified into three LCA-driven classes, including a referent class of healthy eaters (n=118), a class of emotional eaters (n=53), and a class of irregular unhealthy eaters (n=88). Compared with the referent class, emotional eaters had a significantly higher body mass index (beta=3.40, P<0.001) and metabolic syndrome (odds ratio 2.88, 95% confidence interval 1.16–7.13). Conclusions Our finding of three LCA-driven obesity phenotypes could be useful for assessment and management of obesity and metabolic syndrome. The association between higher BMI and metabolic syndrome was stronger in emotional eaters than in healthy eaters and irregular unhealthy eaters. Emotional eaters might benefit from emotional regulation strategies.
Predictors and survival of Primary clear cell carcinoma of liver: a population-based study of an uncommon primary liver tumor
Authors: Wen Jie , Aili Abudureyimujiang , yao xueyan , Wang Junjie , xue li xiang
Published: April 2020

Background: The clinicopathological features and prognostic factors of primary clear cell carcinoma of the liver (PCCCL) remain unknown. Aims: We aimed to determine the clinical, pathological, demographic, and therapeutic characteristics of PCCCL and the effects of these factors on the prognosis. Methods: Patients were selected from the "Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results" (SEER) database. Data were analyzed with the Kaplan-Meier, Cox proportional hazards regression, and multivariate ordinal regression analyses. Results: We included 248 PCCCL patients with an average age of 64.1 years. The majority (50.4%) had low pathological grade (grade I/II). The 3-, 5-, and 10-year overall survival (OS) probabilities and disease-specific survival (DSS) rates were 33.8%, 23.2%, 12.2%, and 39.8%, 28.3%, 19.1%, respectively. The widowed patients (OS, P=0.271; DSS, P=0.022) with tumor ≥ 1 cm (OS, P=0.001; DSS, P=0.002) had a higher risk of death. Uninsurance and medicaid were independently associated with a shorter survival (OS, P=0.029; DSS, P=0.017). Among surgical means, total proctectomy along with total colectomy, and wedge or segmental resection/partial proctosigmoidectomy were more beneficial to PCCCL. The black PCCCL patients had a poorer survival than the white group. Furthermore, pathological grade I PCCCL was more likely to present AJCC stage I (P=0.005, OR=-1.062). Conclusion: PCCCL patients had a poor outcome. PCCCL was inclined to be localized, male-prevalent and lower pathological grade. Insurance, tumor size, and marital status were independent prognostic factors for OS and DSS, whereas race affected only OS. Surgery could improve OS and DSS. Moreover, highly differentiated PCCCL was susceptible to early AJCC stage.
The Feasibility and Impact of a Yoga Intervention on Cognition, Physical Function, Physical Activity, and Affective Outcomes Among People Living with HIV: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Quigley Adria , Brouillette Marie-Josée , Gahagan Jacqueline , O'Brien Kelly K. , MacKay-Lyons Marilyn
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this pilot randomized controlled trial was to assess the feasibility and impact of a tri-weekly 12-week yoga intervention among people living with HIV (PLWH). Additional objectives included evaluating cognition, physical function, medication adherence, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and mental health among yoga participants versus controls using blinded assessors. We recruited 22 medically-stable PLWH aged ≥35 years. A priori feasibility criteria were ≥70% yoga session attendance and ≥70% of participants satisfied with the intervention using a post-participation questionnaire. Two participants withdrew from the yoga group. Mean yoga class attendance was 82% with 100% satisfaction. Intention-to-treat analyses (yoga n=11, control n=11) showed no within- or between-group differences in cognitive and physical function. The yoga group improved over time in HRQoL cognition (p=.047) with trends toward improvements in HRQoL health transition (p=.063) and depression (p=.055). This pilot study provides preliminary evidence of feasibility and benefits of yoga for PLWH.