bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bias varies for bioimpedance analysis and skinfold technique when stratifying collegiate male athletes’ fat-free mass hydration levels
Authors: Nickerson Brett S. , Snarr Ronald L. , Ryan Greg A.
Published: November 2019

This study evaluated the accuracy of bioimpedance analysis (BIA)- and skinfold (SF)-based body fat percentage estimates in collegiate athletes with varying fat-free mass (FFM) hydration levels. Subjects were evaluated as a whole (n = 63) and at FFM hydration levels of 64.00%–68.99% (FFM-HydrationL1; n = 37) and 69.00%–74.00% (FFM-HydrationL2; n = 26). Proportional bias was absent in the SF technique when stratifying FFM hydration levels. Contrarily, proportional bias was observed when using BIA for FFM-HydrationL1, but not in FFM-HydrationL2.

Novelty Fat-free mass hydration levels impact BIA-based body fat estimates more than skinfold-based body fat.
EMPLOYMENT DISCRIMINATION IN INDIAN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES: A LOGIT ANALYSIS
Authors: BAIRWA ARUN KUMAR , CHAKRADHAR JADHAV , SHARMA PRITEE
Published: November 2019

Persistent socioeconomic inequalities in a society reduce the chances of employment for its weaker sections. In India, those most affected by inequality and discrimination are women, people of lower castes, rural households and illiterate people. This necessitates an analysis of the levels of discrimination and favoritism working against female, lower caste, rural and illiterate individuals in different manufacturing industries. This study presents an in-depth picture of employment in each industry with regard to the four variables selected — gender, caste, location and education. Fourth (2013–2014) and fifth (2015–2016) annual Employment and Unemployment Surveys have been used for the analysis.
Logic Design Using Modules and Nonlinear Integer Programming
Authors: Pavlatos C. , Dimopoulos A. C. , Papakonstantinou G.
Published: November 2019

Using logic gates is the traditional way of designing logic circuits. However, in many cases, the use of modules is advantageous as the module is considered a uniform structure composed of multiple gates. In this paper, a nonlinear approach is proposed for designing logic circuits for use as modules multiplexers (MUXs) or Reed–Muller universal blocks (RMs). The experimental results show that the method gives better results compared to other methods available in the literature. The main advantages of the method are that it guarantees minimality and it can also handle Boolean functions for incompletely specified functions. The method is general enough and can be used for any kind of modules.
An Effective Variable Neighborhood Search with Perturbation for Location-Routing Problem
Authors: Jiang Hua , Lucet Corinne , Devendeville Laure , Li Chu-Min
Published: November 2019

Location-Routing Problem (LRP) is a challenging problem in logistics, which combines two types of decision: facility location and vehicle routing. In this paper, we focus on LRP with multiple capacitated depots and one uncapacitated vehicle per depot, which has practical applications such as mail delivery and waste collection. We propose a simple iterated variable neighborhood search with an effective perturbation strategy to solve the LRP variant. The experiments show that the algorithm is efficient and can compute better solutions than previous algorithms on tested instances.
Application of a skein relation to difference topology experiments
Authors: Price Candice , Darcy Isabel
Published: November 2019

Difference topology is a technique used to study any protein that can stably bind to DNA. This technique is used to determine the conformation of DNA bound by protein. Motivated by difference topology experiments, we use the skein relation tangle model as a novel technique to study experiments using topoisomerase to study SMC proteins, a family of proteins that stably bind to DNA. The oriented skein relation involves an oriented knot, [Formula: see text], with a distinguished positive crossing; a knot [Formula: see text], obtained by changing the distinguished positive crossing of [Formula: see text] to a negative crossing; a knot, [Formula: see text], resulting from the non-orientation persevering resolution of the distinguished crossing; and a link [Formula: see text], the orientation preserving resolution of the distinguished crossing. We refer to [Formula: see text] as the skein quadruple. Topoisomerases are proteins that break one segment of DNA allowing a DNA segment to pass through before resealing the break. Recombinases are proteins that cut two segments of DNA and recombine them in some manner. They can act on direct repeat or inverted repeat sites, resulting in a link or knot, respectively. Thus, the skein quadruple is now viewed as [Formula: see text] circular DNA substrate, [Formula: see text] product of topoisomerase action, [Formula: see text] product of recombinase action on directed repeat sites, and [Formula: see text] product of recombinase action of inverted repeat sites.
New skein invariants of links
Authors: Kauffman Louis H. , Lambropoulou Sofia
Published: November 2019

We study new skein invariants of links based on a procedure where we first apply a given skein relation only to crossings of distinct components, so as to produce collections of unlinked knots. We then evaluate the resulting knots using the given invariant. A skein invariant can be computed on each link solely by the use of skein relations and a set of initial conditions. The new procedure, remarkably, leads to generalizations of the known skein invariants. We make skein invariants of classical links, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], based on the invariants of knots, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], denoting the regular isotopy version of the Homflypt polynomial, the Kauffman polynomial and the Dubrovnik polynomial. We provide skein theoretic proofs of the well-definedness of these invariants. These invariants are also reformulated into summations of the generating invariants ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) on sublinks of a given link [Formula: see text], obtained by partitioning [Formula: see text] into collections of sublinks. These summations exhibit the tight and surprising relationship between our generalized skein-theoretic procedure and the structure of sublinks of a given link.
Mooring System Design and Verification for a Floating Vertical Axis Wind Turbine
Authors: Raschioni Fausto , Longo Roberto , Mehmanparast Ali , Rizzo Cesare Mario
Published: November 2019

The aim of this study is to investigate the technical feasibility of an innovative vertical axis floating wind turbine concept with the main focus on the design and verification of the mooring system. The study is developed through iterative processes in order to identify the optimum design for the new floating wind turbine concept. The Ultimate Limit State (ULS) criteria have been considered to verify the integrity of the mooring system in the extreme environmental conditions with a 50-year return period. For this purpose, time domain dynamic analysis has been performed using the commercial software OrcaFlex [Orcina website, OrcaFlex software, https://www.orcina.com/ ]. Although the analysis is carried out for a specific site deemed suitable for the project, the results can be used as an input for any future application in other locations. The present study is intended to be a proof of concept with a proposed scientific framework for optimization of the mooring system which is considered to be a crucial part in the design of floating wind turbines due to their complex dynamic behavior.
Separation profiles of graphs of fractals
Authors: Gladkova Valeriia , Shum Verna
Published: November 2019

We continue the exploration of the relationship between conformal dimension and the separation profile by computing the separation of families of spheres in hyperbolic graphs whose boundaries are standard Sierpiński carpets and Menger sponges. In all cases, we show that the separation of these spheres is [Formula: see text] for some [Formula: see text] which is strictly smaller than the conformal dimension, in contrast to the case of rank 1 symmetric spaces of dimension [Formula: see text]. The value of [Formula: see text] obtained naturally corresponds to a previously known lower bound on the conformal dimension of the associated fractal.
Study of structural and dielectric properties of La0.9Na0.1CrO3- and Ni0.5Cu0.5Fe2O4-based composites
Authors: Saleem M. , Chouhan Shivani , Mishra A.
Published: November 2019

The preparation of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]CrO3 (LNCO), [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Fe2O4 (NCFO) and their composites of the type [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]CrO3 (LNCO) [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text]) [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Fe2O4 (NCFO) [Formula: see text], 0.50[Formula: see text] through solid state route is reported. From X-ray diffraction data analysis, the parent [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]CrO3 was found to crystallize in orthorhombic structure (Pnma) while [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Fe2O4 has crystallized into the cubic structure (Fd3[Formula: see text]) further verified via Retvield refinement. The morphology and compositional studies were carried out using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy dispersive analysis of X-rays (EDAX), respectively. Lattice structure was confirmed via Raman characterization for the prepared samples. The sample formation was further verified through Fourier transform Infra-Red (FTIR) spectroscopy. The dielectric studies reveal the [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]CrO3[Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Fe2O4[Formula: see text] exhibit high dielectric constant. However, their composites show abrupt drop in dielectric constant. The electric modulus study confirmed that the samples exhibit non-Debye character with spread of relaxation time constants.
Establishing an urban geo-observatory to support sustainable development of shallow subsurface heat recovery and storage
Authors: Patton A. M. , Farr G. , Boon D. P. , James D. R. , Williams B. , James L. , Kendall R. , Thorpe S. , Harcombe G. , Schofield D. I. , Holden A. , White D.
Published: November 2019

Low-enthalpy ground source heating and cooling is recognized as one strategy that can contribute towards reducing reliance on traditional, increasingly insecure, CO
2
-intense thermal power generation, as well as helping to address fuel poverty. Development of this technology is applicable in urban areas where high housing density often coincides with the presence of shallow aquifers. In urban areas groundwater temperatures can be elevated owing to the subsurface urban heat island effect. Uptake and development of this technology is often limited by initial investment costs; however, baseline temperature monitoring and characterization of urban aquifers, conducted in partnership with local authorities, can provide a greater degree of certainty around resource and sustainability that can facilitate better planning, regulation and management of subsurface heat. We present a novel high-density, city-scale groundwater temperature observatory and introduce a 3D geological model aimed at addressing the needs of developers, planners, regulators and policy makers. The Cardiff Geo-Observatory measures temperature in a Quaternary aged sand and gravel aquifer in 61 boreholes and at a pilot shallow open-loop ground source heating system. We show that repurposing existing infrastructure can provide a cost-effective method of developing monitoring networks, and make recommendations on establishing similar geo-observatories.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Measurement and monitoring collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/measurement-and-monitoring
The State of Stress on the Fault Before, During, and After a Major Earthquake
Authors: Brodsky Emily E. , Mori James J. , Anderson Louise , Chester Frederick M. , Conin Marianne , Dunham Eric M. , Eguchi Nobu , Fulton Patrick M. , Hino Ryota , Hirose Takehiro , Ikari Matt J. , Ishikawa Tsuyoshi , Jeppson Tamara , Kano Yasuyuki , Kirkpatrick James , Kodaira Shuichi , Lin Weiren , Nakamura Yasuyuki , Rabinowitz Hannah S. , Regalla Christine , Remitti Francesca , Rowe Christie , Saffer Demian M. , Saito Saneatsu , Sample James , Sanada Yoshinori , Savage Heather M. , Sun Tianhaozhe , Toczko Sean , Ujiie Kohtaro , Wolfson-Schwehr Monica , Yang Tao
Published: November 2019

Earthquakes occur by overcoming fault friction; therefore, quantifying fault resistance is central to earthquake physics. Values for both static and dynamic friction are required, and the latter is especially difficult to determine on natural faults. However, large earthquakes provide signals that can determine friction in situ. The Japan Trench Fast Drilling Project (JFAST), an Integrated Ocean Discovery Program expedition, determined stresses by collecting data directly from the fault 1–2 years after the 2011 Mw 9.1 Tohoku earthquake. Geological, rheological, and geophysical data record stress before, during, and after the earthquake. Together, the observations imply that the shear strength during the earthquake was substantially below that predicted by the traditional Byerlee's law. Locally the stress drop appears near total, and stress reversal is plausible. Most solutions to the energy balance require off-fault deformation to account for dissipation during rupture. These observations make extreme coseismic weakening the preferred model for fault behavior. ▪  Determining the friction during an earthquake is required to understand when and where earthquakes occur. ▪  Drilling into the Tohoku fault showed that friction during the earthquake was low. ▪  Dynamic friction during the earthquake was lower than static friction. ▪  Complete stress drop is possible, and stress reversal is plausible.
Lump and Mixed Rogue‐Soliton Solutions of the (2 + 1)‐Dimensional Mel’nikov System
Authors: Deng Yue-jun , Jia Rui-yu , Lin Ji
Published: November 2019

Lump wave and line rogue wave of the (2 + 1)‐dimensional Mel’nikov system are derived by taking the ansatz as the rational function. By combining a rational function and different exponential functions, mixed solutions between the lump and soliton are derived. These solutions describe the interaction phenomena of the lump‐bright soliton with fission and fusion, the half‐line rogue wave with a bright soliton, and a rogue wave excited from the bright soliton pair, respectively. Some special concrete interaction solutions are depicted in both analytical and graphical ways.
Effectiveness ofOpuntia ficus indicaL.inermisSeed Oil in the Protection and the Healing of Experimentally Induced Gastric Mucosa Ulcer
Authors: Khémiri Ikram , Bitri Lotfi
Published: November 2019

Gastric ulcer is a painful lesion of the gastric mucosa which can be disabling, or even more very serious in the case of a perforation of the stomach and internal hemorrhage. Traditional pharmacopeias have shown the efficacy of various plant extracts in the treatment of this pathology. Some extracts fromOpuntia ficus indica(OFI) have been proven to have medicinal therapeutic benefits. The aim of this study was to investigate the preventive and curative effects of OFI seed oil extracted by cold pressing on an ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model in rats. Gastroprotective activities of the oil were assessed as pretreatments prior to ethanol gavage of Wistar rats compared to reference drugs. Two oil dose effects were tested. Ulcer and gastric parameters were measured (ulcerated areas (mm2), % of ulcer inhibition, gastric juice volume and pH, and mucus weight). Macroscopical and microscopical assessments of the stomachs as well as gastric biopsy histological studies were carried out. OFI oil exhibited a high efficiency in the protection of the cytoarchitecture and function of the gastric mucosa against the severe damages provoked by ethanol intake. Ulcerated areas were very significantly reduced and the % of ulcer inhibition was the highest under OFI oil pretreatment. Mucus production was stimulated, gastric juice volume was reduced, and its pH was increased. Histopathological examination of H&E-stained biopsies collected from gastric mucosae from the different experimental groups confirmed the gastroprotective efficacy of OFI oil against ethanol-induced symptoms such as inflammation and damages like bleeding, erosions, lesions, necrosis, and ulcers. Furthermore, OFI oil treatment speeded-up the reduction of the surface of ethanol-induced ulcerated areas in a dose-dependent manner, leading to a time gain in the healing process. The healing rate reached 91% on day 2 and 99% on day 3, and a complete heal was attained at the fourth day under OFI oil treatment, while ulcer areas were still partially unhealed in all the other groups. The therapeutic effects of OFI oil against gastric ulcer could be mediated by its varied bioactive compounds that we have demonstrated in the analytical study. They could act synergistically or in a delayed manner to optimize the healing process through protective antioxidant properties, as well as an antagonism against histamine H2-receptors, a stimulation of the signaling pathways necessary for mucus and bicarbonate production, and reduction of inflammatory processes in the gastric mucosa. Additionally, OFI oil fatty acids (especially unsaturated) and triacylglycerols contribute to the reconstruction and the repair of the cell membrane lipid bilayer during the gastric ulcer healing process.
5α,6α-Epoxyphytosterols and 5α,6α-Epoxycholesterol Increase Oxidative Stress in Rats on Low-Cholesterol Diet
Authors: Wielkoszyński Tomasz , Zalejska-Fiolka Jolanta , Strzelczyk Joanna K. , Owczarek Aleksander J. , Cholewka Armand , Krawczyk Aneta , Stanek Agata
Published: November 2019

Objective. Cholesterol oxidation products have an established proatherogenic and cytotoxic effect. An increased exposure to these substances may be associated with the development of atherosclerosis and cancers. Relatively little, though, is known about the effect of phytosterol oxidation products, although phytosterols are present in commonly available and industrial food products. Thus, the aim of the research was to assess the effect of 5α,6α-epoxyphytosterols, which are important phytosterol oxidation products, on redox state in rats.Material and Methods. The animals were divided into 3 groups and exposed to nutritional sterols by receiving feed containing 5α,6α-epoxyphytosterols (ES group) and 5α,6α-epoxycholesterol (Ech group) or sterol-free feed (C group). The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), conjugated dienes (CD), and ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) were assayed in the plasma; anti-7-ketocholesterol antibodies and activity of paraoxonase-1 (PON1) were determined in serum, whereas the activity of catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), S-glutathione transferase (GST), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were assayed in RBCs.Results. During the experiment, the levels of lipid peroxidation products increased, such as CD and anti-7-ketocholesterol antibodies. At the same time, the plasma levels of FRAP and serum activity of PON1 decreased alongside the reduced activity of GPx, GR, and SOD in RBCs. There was no effect of the studied compounds on the plasma MDA levels or on the activity of CAT and GST in RBCs.Conclusions. Both 5α,6α-epoxyphytosterols and 5α,6α-epoxycholesterols similarly dysregulate theredoxstate in experimental animal model and may significantly impact atherogenesis.
The Role of Oxidative Stress in Common Risk Factors and Mechanisms of Cardio-Cerebrovascular Ischemia and Depression
Authors: Lin Danfeng , Wang Lingling , Yan Shenqiang , Zhang Qing , Zhang John H. , Shao Anwen
Published: November 2019

The public health sector faces a huge challenge as a result of the high prevalence and burden of disability caused by ischemic cardio-cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and depression. Although studies have explored the underlying mechanisms and potential therapies to address conditions, there is no treatment breakthrough, especially for depression which is highly influenced by social stressors. However, accumulating evidence reveals that CVD and depression are correlated and share common risk factors, particularly obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. They also share common mechanisms, including oxidative stress (OS), inflammation and immune response, cell death signaling pathway, and microbiome-gut-brain axis. This review summarizes the relationship between ischemic CVD and depression and describes the interactions among common risk factors and mechanisms for these two diseases. In addition, we propose that OS mediates the crosstalk between these diseases. We also reveal the potential of antioxidants to ameliorate OS-related injuries.
Involvement of Oxidative Stress and the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor in Diesel Exhaust Particle-Induced Expression of Inflammatory Mediators in Human Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Li Fangfang , An Zhen , Li Haibin , Gao Xia , Wang Gui , Wu Weidong
Published: November 2019

Exposure to diesel exhaust particles (DEPs) has been associated with increased incidence of cardiopulmonary diseases. This study is aimed at examining the proinflammatory effects of DEP on primary human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and the underlying mechanisms using a human mononuclear cell line, THP-1. DEPs were incubated with the PBMC and THP-1 cells for 24 h, respectively. The supernatants were collected and subjected to measurement of proinflammatory mediators including interleukin 8 (IL-8) or tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) by ELISA. Levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined using flow cytometry. Phosphorylation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was examined with immunoblotting. Exposure to DEP induced a concentration-dependent increase in the expression of IL-8 and TNFα in the PBMC and THP-1 cells. Further mechanistic studies with THP-1 cells indicated that DEP stimulation increased intracellular levels of ROS, an indicator of oxidative stress, and phosphorylation of the EGFR, indicative of EGFR activation. Pretreatment of THP-1 cells with the antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) markedly blunted DEP-induced EGFR phosphorylation, indicating that oxidative stress was involved in DEP-induced EGFR activation. Furthermore, the pretreatment of THP-1 cells with either NAC or a selective EGFR inhibitor significantly blocked DEP-induced IL-8 expression, implying that oxidative stress and subsequent EGFR activation mediated DEP-induced inflammatory response. In summary, DEP stimulation increases the expression of proinflammatory mediators in human mononuclear cells, which is regulated by oxidative stress-EGFR signaling pathway.
Risk Factors of Periprocedural Bradycardia during Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients with Acute ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Li Yong , Lyu Shuzheng
Published: November 2019

Background. Evidence available suggests that periprocedural bradycardia negates the benefit of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) and worsens the prognosis of patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Objective. To investigate the risk factors of periprocedural bradycardia during PPCI in patients with acute STEMI. Methods. We enrolled 2,536 acute STEMI patients who had PPCI from November 2007 to June 2018 in Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University. We divided all patients into two groups according to periprocedural bradycardia (preoperative heart rate ≥50 times/min, intraoperative heart rate <50 times/min persistent or transient) during PPCI: periprocedural bradycardia group (434 cases) and control group (2102 cases). We compared demographic, clinical, and angiographic characteristics of the two groups. We analyzed the risk factors of periprocedural bradycardia. Results. The incident rate was 17.1% (434/2536). Logistic regression analysis showed that the differences between the two groups in no-reflow, the culprit vessel was LAD, using thrombus aspiration devices during operation, gender, completely block of culprit vessel, and intraoperative hypotension were statistically significant (P<0.05). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.8390. Conclusions. No-reflow, the culprit vessel was not LAD, using thrombus aspiration devices during operation, gender, completely block of culprit vessel, and intraoperative hypotension may be independent risk factors for predicting periprocedural bradycardia during PPCI in patients with acute STEMI. We registered this study with WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) (registration number: ChiCTR1900023214; registered date: 16 May 2019).
Efficacy of Shenqi Pollen Capsules for High-Altitude Deacclimatization Syndrome via Suppression of the Reoxygenation Injury and Inflammatory Response
Authors: He Binfeng , Hu Mingdong , Liang Zhihui , Ma Qianli , Zi Yunhai , Dong Zhiwei , Li Qi , Luo Yongjun , Qian Guisheng , Guo Liang , Lin Kexiong , Liu Zhenyu , Wang Guansong
Published: November 2019

High-altitude deacclimatization syndrome (HADAS) is involved in hypoxia-reoxygenation injury and inflammatory response, induced a series of symptoms, and has emerged as a severe public health issue. Here, we investigated the mechanism as well as potential means to prevent HADAS using Shenqi pollen capsules (SPCs) in subjects with HADAS in a multicenter, double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled study. All subjects were at the same high altitude (3650 m) for 4-8 months before returning to lower altitudes. Subjects (n=288) in 20 clusters were diagnosed with mild or moderate HADAS on the third day of the study. We randomly allocated 20 clusters of subjects (1 : 1) to receive SPCs or a placebo for 7 weeks, and they were then followed up to the 14th week. The primary endpoints were subjects’ HADAS scores recorded during the 14 weeks of follow-up. Compared with the placebo, SPC treatment significantly decreased the subjects’ HADAS scores and reduced the incidence of symptom persistence. SPC therapy also reduced the serum levels of CK, CK-MB, LDH, IL-17A, TNF-α, and miR-155 and elevated IL-10 and miR-21 levels. We thus demonstrate that SPCs effectively ameliorated HADAS symptoms in these subjects via suppression of the hypoxia-reoxygenation injury and inflammatory response.
DPP4 Inhibitor Attenuates Severe Acute Pancreatitis-Associated Intestinal Inflammation via Nrf2 Signaling
Authors: Zhou Xiang , Wang Weiming , Wang Cheng , Zheng Chenlei , Xu Xiangxiang , Ni Xiaofeng , Hu Shanshan , Cai Binbin , Sun Linxiao , Shi Keqing , Chen Bicheng , Zhou Mengtao , Chen Gang
Published: November 2019

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is a challenging disease with high morbidity and mortality, often complicated by multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). The intestine, a major organ involved in MODS, correlates strongly with the evolution of the disease. In this study, we demonstrated that the DPP4 inhibitor, sitagliptin, protects SAP-associated intestinal injury both in vitro and in vivo. These beneficial effects were achieved by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Moreover, in sitagliptin-treated SAP mice, expression of Nrf2 was induced and that of NF-κB was reduced, compared to the control SAP mice. In addition, we used Nrf2-/- mice to test the protective effect of Nrf2 during sitagliptin treatment of SAP; our results indicated that Nrf2-/- mice had greater pancreatic and intestinal injury than wild-type mice. Taken together, high levels of ROS induced by SAP may be inhibited by sitagliptin, possibly by inactivating the Nrf2-NF-κB pathway.
Application of Compressive Sensing to Ultrasound Images: A Review
Authors: Yousufi Musyyab , Amir Muhammad , Javed Umer , Tayyib Muhammad , Abdullah Suheel , Ullah Hayat , Qureshi Ijaz Mansoor , Alimgeer Khurram Saleem , Akram Muhammad Waseem , Khan Khan Bahadar
Published: November 2019

Compressive sensing (CS) offers compression of data below the Nyquist rate, making it an attractive solution in the field of medical imaging, and has been extensively used for ultrasound (US) compression and sparse recovery. In practice, CS offers a reduction in data sensing, transmission, and storage. Compressive sensing relies on the sparsity of data; i.e., data should be sparse in original or in some transformed domain. A look at the literature reveals that rich variety of algorithms have been suggested to recover data using compressive sensing from far fewer samples accurately, but with tradeoffs for efficiency. This paper reviews a number of significant CS algorithms used to recover US images from the undersampled data along with the discussion of CS in 3D US images. In this paper, sparse recovery algorithms applied to US are classified in five groups. Algorithms in each group are discussed and summarized based on their unique technique, compression ratio, sparsifying transform, 3D ultrasound, and deep learning. Research gaps and future directions are also discussed in the conclusion of this paper. This study is aimed to be beneficial for young researchers intending to work in the area of CS and its applications, specifically to US.
Preparation and Antifungal Activity Investigation of Oligochitosan-Zn2+ on Colletotrichum truncatum
Authors: Van Phu Dang , Du Bui Duy , Tuan Le Nghiem Anh , Hung Le Thanh , Hiet Hoang Dac , Hien Nguyen Quoc
Published: November 2019

This study presents the structural characteristics and the antifungal efficiency of the oligochitosan-Zn2+ complexes. Oligochitosan with the average molecular weight of ~5 kDa was effectively prepared by gamma-ray irradiation degradation of chitosan in a solution containing H2O2. The oligochitosan-Zn2+ complexes with the different molar ratios of -NH2/Zn2+ were prepared by mixing Zn(NO3)2 into oligochitosan solution. The resultant complexes were characterized by FTIR, XRD, UV-Vis, and ICP-AES. The obtained results demonstrated that Zn2+ ions were stably bound with oligochitosan molecules through interacting with -OH and -NH2 groups. The in vitro antifungal effect of oligochitosan-Zn2+ complexes was assessed against Colletotrichum truncatum, a fungus species causing anthracnose on crops. The antifungal activity was significantly improved as the increase of Zn2+ content in the complexes. Particularly, the antifungal efficiency of the complexes reached to 75–100% compared to that of about 12% for oligochitosan. Thus, the addition of Zn2+ into oligochitosan strengthens its performance towards antifungal property and bring forward a new approach for progressing biobased materials for controlling plant diseases.
Expression Profile Analysis of Differentially Expressed Circular RNAs in Steroid-Induced Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head
Authors: Zhu Zhongxin , Du Wenxi , Yu Huan , Jin Hongting , Tong Peijian
Published: November 2019

Background. A growing number of studies have suggested that circular RNAs (circRNAs) serve as potential diagnostic biomarkers in many diseases. However, the role of circRNAs in steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SONFH) has not been reported. Methods. Secondary sequencing was performed to profile circRNA expression in peripheral blood samples from three SONFH patients and three healthy individuals. We confirmed our preliminary findings by qRT-PCR. Bioinformatics analysis was conducted to predict their functions. Results. The result showed 345 dysregulated circRNAs. qRT-PCR of eight selected circRNAs preliminarily confirmed the results, which were consistent with RNA sequencing. Bioinformatics analyses were performed to predict the functions of circRNAs to target the genes of miRNAs and the networks of circRNA-miRNA-mRNA interactions. Conclusions. This study provides a new and fundamental circRNA profile of SONFH and a theoretical basis for further studies on the functions of circRNAs in SONFH.
Adenosine 2A Receptor Blockade as an Immunotherapy for Treatment-Refractory Renal Cell Cancer
Authors: Fong Lawrence , Hotson Andrew , Powderly John D. , Sznol Mario , Heist Rebecca S. , Choueiri Toni K. , George Saby , Hughes Brett G.M. , Hellmann Matthew D. , Shepard Dale R. , Rini Brian I. , Kummar Shivaani , Weise Amy M. , Riese Matthew J. , Markman Ben , Emens Leisha A. , Mahadevan Daruka , Luke Jason J. , Laport Ginna , Brody Joshua D. , Hernandez-Aya Leonel , Bonomi Philip , Goldman Jonathan W. , Berim Lyudmyla , Renouf Daniel J. , Goodwin Rachel A. , Munneke Brian , Ho Po Y. , Hsieh Jessica , McCaffery Ian , Kwei Long , Willingham Stephen B. , Miller Richard A.
Published: November 2019

Adenosine mediates immunosuppression within the tumor microenvironment through triggering adenosine 2A receptors (A2AR) on immune cells. To determine whether this pathway could be targeted as an immunotherapy, we performed a phase I clinical trial with a small-molecule A2AR antagonist. We find that this molecule can safely block adenosine signaling in vivo. In a cohort of 68 patients with renal cell cancer (RCC), we also observe clinical responses alone and in combination with an anti–PD-L1 antibody, including subjects who had progressed on PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. Durable clinical benefit is associated with increased recruitment of CD8+ T cells into the tumor. Treatment can also broaden the circulating T-cell repertoire. Clinical responses are associated with an adenosine-regulated gene-expression signature in pretreatment tumor biopsies. A2AR signaling, therefore, represents a targetable immune checkpoint distinct from PD-1/PD-L1 that restricts antitumor immunity.

Significance:

This first-in-human study of an A2AR antagonist for cancer treatment establishes the safety and feasibility of targeting this pathway by demonstrating antitumor activity with single-agent and anti–PD-L1 combination therapy in patients with refractory RCC. Responding patients possess an adenosine-regulated gene-expression signature in pretreatment tumor biopsies.

See related commentary by Sitkovsky, p. 16.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1
Magnetic Hyperthermia Using Self-Controlled Heating Elements Consisting of Fe-Al Milling Alloy Induces Cancer Cell Apoptosis while Preserving Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Kawahara Isao , Goto Kei , Kodama Kenji , Luo Yi , Fujiwara-Tani Rina , Mori Takuya , Miyagawa Yoshihiro , Tanaka Hirokazu , Kodama Hiroyuki , Hosoito Nobuyoshi , Taniguchi Yukinori , Kuniyasu Hiroki
Published: November 2019

Necrosis-inducing anticancer drugs enhance high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) release during cell necrosis, and HMGB1-induced autophagy in skeletal muscle induces muscle atrophy. We evaluated the efficacy of magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) using a low-energy magnetic field and self-controlled heating elements in tumor treatment. MHT-induced apoptosis by heating mouse subcutaneous tumors at 43°C using a heat-controlling iron-aluminum (Fe-Al) milling alloy. In contrast, MHT using Fe line-induced necrosis by heating to approximately 100°C. Furthermore, MHT with Fe-Al milling alloy reduced stemness. In hyperthermia using age line or Fe-Al milling alloy, both of them provided histological degeneration in skeletal muscle; however, qualitative differences were observed. MHT using Fe-line induced pronounced autophagy, decrease of myosin heavy chain content, and increase in serum HMGB1. In contrast, MHT using Fe-Al milling alloy induced heat shock protein 90 but no autophagy and decreased serum HMGB1. Therefore, MHT using Fe-Al milling alloy might be a good method for local treatment of tumors to reduce skeletal muscle atrophy.
A Preoperative Scoring System to Predict Carcinoma in Patients with Gallbladder Polyps
Authors: Onda Shinji , Futagawa Yasuro , Gocho Takeshi , Shiba Hiroaki , Ishida Yuichi , Okamoto Tomoyoshi , Yanaga Katsuhiko
Published: November 2019

Introduction: A preoperative scoring system to predict carcinoma in patients with gallbladder polyps (GBPs). Methods: Preoperative parameters of patients with GBPs who underwent cholecystectomies were used to construct a scoring system to ascertain the risk of malignancy (reference group). The scoring system developed from this approach was applied to the validation group. Results: In the reference group, 11.5% of patients had carcinomas, in whom the median age was 68 years and the polyp size was 16.9 mm. According to the univariate analysis, the significant factors for carcinoma were age ≥65 years, the presence of gallstones, polyp size ≥13 mm, solitary polyp, and sessile polyp. Age ≥65 years and polyp size ≥13 mm were significant factors according to the multivariate analysis. From these results, we developed a preoperative scoring system to predict carcinoma. The patients were divided into 1 of 2 groups: low-risk and high-risk and their malignancy rates were 4.1 and 61.1% respectively (p < 0.001). In the validation group, the malignancy rate was higher for those in the high-risk group (p = 0.016). Conclusions: The proposed preoperative scoring system based on simple clinical variables appears to be useful for predicting malignancy in patients with GBPs.
Serum Resistin, Adenylate Cyclase-Associated Protein 1 Gene Expression, and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease and Healthy Controls
Authors: Munjas Jelena , Sopić Miron , Bogavac-Stanojević Nataša , Kravljača Milica , Miljković Milica , Simić-Ogrizović Sanja , Spasojević-Kalimanovska Vesna , Jelić-Ivanović Zorana
Published: November 2019

Background: Human resistin is a proinflammatory cytokine with significant proatherogenic effects which acts through adenylyl cyclase-associated protein 1 (CAP1). Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients have increased cardiovascular risk and resistin levels. Previous studies indicated resistin significance as a predictor of mortality in CKD. Aims: We sought to investigate plasma resistin levels, peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) resistin mRNA, and for the first time CAP1 mRNA levels in ESRD patients and healthy controls. We also sought to investigate the relation of resistin and CAP1 to carotid intima media thickness (CIMT), CD36 gene expression, and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) circulating levels in ESRD patients and healthy controls. Methods: This study included 33 patients with ESRD and 27 healthy controls. Resistin and MMP-9 levels were measured by ELISA. Resistin, CAP1, and CD36 PBMC mRNA were measured by quantitative PCR. Results: Our study showed that ESRD patients have significantly higher levels of circulatory resistin compared to healthy controls (p < 0.001), while there was no significant difference in resistin mRNA. A significant upregulation of CAP1 and CD36 was observed in the ESRD group (p < 0.001; p < 0.001). Resistin concentration correlated with CIMT in healthy controls (r = 0.512, p = 0.036), and with MMP-9 concentration in ESRD (r = 0.353, p = 0.044) and healthy controls (r = 0.463, p = 0.026). CAP1 correlated positively with CIMT (r = 0.464, p = 0.008) in ESRD, and with CD36 in healthy controls (r = 0.447, p = 0.022) and ESRD (r = 0.824, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The obtained data suggest that high levels of circulating resistin acting upon cells with an upregulated CAP1 gene could contribute to the increased inflammation and accelerated atherosclerosis seen in CKD patients.
Aortic Pulse Wave Velocity in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients Is Not Simply Associated with Extracellular Water Expansion
Authors: Tangvoraphonkchai Kamonwan , Davenport Andrew
Published: November 2019

Background: Cardiac death is increased in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is a measurement of arterial stiffness, and previous reports linked PWV to increased extracellular water (ECW). As cyclers and icodextrin are increasingly used, we wished to determine whether this association between PWV and ECW remains. Methods: We measured aortic PWV (aPWV) and bioimpedance (InBody, Seoul, South Korea) in consecutive PD patients attending for peritoneal membrane testing. Results: 189 patients were included, 62.4% male, mean age 63.1 ± 15.2 years, 45.3% diabetic, median dialysis duration 12.3 (6.5–25.1) months, 71.4% using cyclers, weight 73.0 ± 16.1 kg, systolic blood pressure 142 ± 21 mm Hg, aPWV 10.4 ± 5.1 m/s. aPWV was associated with pulse pressure (r = 0.26, p = 0.001), Davies comorbidity score (r = 0.18, p = 0.013), and N-terminal pro-brain-type natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP; r = 0.18, p = 0.011). Patients with aPWV ≥10 m/s were older (65.9 ± 13.6 vs. 60.1 ± 16.3 years, p < 0.01) with a higher ECW-to-total body water ratio (0.400 ± 0.012 vs. 0.396 ± 0.013, p < 0.05), but ECW/height was not different (8.52 ± 2.32 vs. 8.75 ± 1.78 L/m), as was NTproBNP (2,472 [788–5,422] vs. 1,234 [410–6,230] ng/L). On multivariable testing, aPWV was positively associated with β-blocker prescription (standardised β coefficient [Stβ] 0.3, 95% confidence limits [95% CL] 0.7–2.6, p = 0.001) and negatively with icodextrin prescription (Stβ 0.19, 95% CL –0.2 to –2.1, p = 0.04). Conclusions: Compared to previous studies, we did not find an independent association between aPWV and ECW and estimates of ECW excess, using the InBody bioimpedance device, suggesting that vascular stiffness in PD patients is more complex than simple ECW volume expansion in PD patients.
In utero Hepatitis B Immunization during Fetal Surgery for Spina Bifida
Authors: Moehrlen Ueli , Elrod Julia , Ochsenbein-Kölble Nicole , Berger Christoph , Speck Roberto F. , Mazzone Luca , Krähenmann Franziska , Zimmermann Roland , Meuli Martin
Published: November 2019

Background: Fetal surgery for spina bifida aperta may lead to significantly better outcomes than postnatal repair, particularly regarding shunt-dependent hydrocephalus, independent ambulation, and voiding functions. The “Management of Myelomeningocele Study” (MOMS) represents the current benchmark, also in terms of eligibility criteria. Case Report: A positive maternal hepatitis B virus (HBV) status is a MOMS exclusion criterion. Here, we report on the first successful active and passive in utero HBV vaccination of a spina bifida fetus carried by a HBV-positive mother undergoing maternal-fetal surgery. The now 2-year-old infant is healthy, HBV negative, and drew maximal benefit from prenatal surgery. Discussion and Conclusion: Taken together, this patient benefitted maximally from fetal surgery for spina bifida, despite meeting an exclusion criterion. Thus, generally speaking, eligibility criteria for fetal surgery can be challenged under certain circumstances for the benefit of the patient.
Validation of the French Versions of the Speech Handicap Index and the Phonation Handicap Index in Patients Treated for Cancer of the Oral Cavity or Oropharynx
Authors: Balaguer Mathieu , Farinas Jérôme , Fichaux-Bourin Pascale , Puech Michèle , Pinquier Julien , Woisard Virginie
Published: November 2019

Context: Nowadays, clinical tools are available to evaluate the functional impact of speech disorders in neurological conditions, but few are validated in oncology. Because of their location, cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract directly impact patients’ communication skills. Two questionnaires exist in French, the Speech Handicap Index (SHI) and the Phonation Handicap Index (PHI), but none are specifically validated for the head and neck cancer population. Our aim is to evaluate the validity of these 2 questionnaires in a population of patients treated for oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer. Material and Method: Eighty-seven patients treated for cancer of the oral cavity or oropharynx, and 21 controls filled in the questionnaires during a consultation or 1-day hospitalization. Validation was studied by the analysis of convergent and discriminant validity, clinical validity, criterion validity, and internal consistency. Results: The 2 questionnaires present a coherent structure in 2 distinct dimensions for the SHI, and in 3 dimensions for the PHI. Both tools discriminate patients and healthy subjects (p value <0.001, Mann-Whitney test). The comparison of the SHI and PHI scores with the “social role functioning” dimension of the Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36 chosen as a reference shows similar performances for the 2 questionnaires (ρ > 0.42). Lastly, the internal consistency is good (Cronbach’s α > 0.71). Conclusion: In patients treated for oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer, the SHI and PHI are 2 valid and reliable tools for the self-assessment of speech disability. A limitation can be found about criterion validity, because a true gold standard does not exist at the moment. However, the reduced number of questions of the PHI, which implies a shorter completion, leads to prefer this tool over the SHI.
Glucose Fluctuations Promote Aortic Fibrosis through the ROS/p38 MAPK/Runx2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Zhen-Ye , Wang Ning , Qian Ling-Ling , Miao Ling-Feng , Dang Shi-Peng , Wu Ying , Wang Ru-Xing
Published: November 2019

Aim: Glucose fluctuations may be responsible for, or further the onset of arterial hypertension, but the exact mechanisms remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanisms behind and related to aortic fibrosis and aortic stiffening induced by glucose fluctuations. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with streptozotocin (STZ) and randomly divided into three treatment groups: controlled STZ-induced diabetes (C-STZ); uncontrolled STZ-induced diabetes (U-STZ); and STZ-induced diabetes with glucose fluctuations (STZ-GF). After 3 weeks, rat blood pressure (BP) was tested, and aortic fibrosis was detected by using the Masson trichrome staining technique. Levels of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), collagen type 1 (collagen I), and NADPH oxidases were determined by Western blot.Rat vascular smooth muscle cells in vitro were used to explore underlying mechanisms. Results: The systolic BP of diabetic rats in the C-STZ, U-STZ, and STZ-GF groups was 127.67 ± 6.53, 150.03 ± 5.24, and 171.63 ± 3.53 mm Hg, respectively (p< 0.05). The mean BP of diabetic rats in the three groups was 91.20 ± 10.07, 117.29 ± 4.28, and 140.58 ± 2.14 mm Hg, respectively (p< 0.05). The diastolic BP of diabetic rats in the three groups was 73.20 ± 12.63, 101.93 ± 5.79, and 125.37 ± 4.62 mm Hg, respectively (p< 0.05). The ratios of fibrosis areas in the aortas of the three groups were 11.85 ± 1.23, 29.00 ± 0.87, and 48.36 ± 0.55, respectively (p< 0.05). The expressions of p38 MAPK, Runx2, and collagen I were significantly increased in the STZ-GF group. In vitro, applications of inhibitors of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and p38 MAPK successfully reversed glucose fluctuations that would have possibly induced aortic fibrosis. Conclusions: Blood glucose fluctuations aggravate aortic fibrosis via affecting the ROS/p38 MAPK /Runx2 signaling pathway.