bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postoperative Monocyte Count Change Is a Better Predictor of Survival Than Preoperative Monocyte Count in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Song Qian , Wu Jun-zhou , Wang Sheng
Published: August 2019

In esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, an elevated preoperative absolute monocyte count (Pre-AMC) is reported to be a predictor of survival, but the clinical application of postoperative absolute monocyte count change (AMCc) remains unknown. The present study was designed to investigate the prognostic value of AMCc in ESCC. 686 patients of ESCC after radical surgery without preoperative adjuvant therapy were enrolled. The Pre-AMC and AMCc were recorded within one week before the operation and one week after surgery. We considered the median of Pre-AMC as the optimal cut-off value to evaluate the relationship between Pre-AMC and patient survival. AMCc was defined as AMCc increased (higher than Pre-AMC) and AMCc decreased (lower than Pre-AMC). Demographic and clinical characteristics, disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS) were statistically analyzed. Multivariate analysis revealed that AMCc was a better independent prognostic factor for both OS (P = 0.002, HR = 0.614, 95% CI 0.450-0.837) and DFS (P = 0.023, HR = 0.656, 95% CI 0.456-0.943) than Pre-AMC which was only an independent prognostic factor for OS (P = 0.033, HR = 2.031, 95% CI 1.058-3.898). AMCc could be a better prognostic factor than Pre-AMC in patients with ESCC. AMCc decrease predicts worse OS and DFS in ESCC undergoing curative resection.
A Mixed-Methods, Randomized Clinical Trial to Examine Feasibility of a Mindfulness-Based Stress Management and Diabetes Risk Reduction Intervention for African Americans with Prediabetes
Authors: Woods-Giscombe Cheryl L. , Gaylord Susan A. , Li Yin , Brintz Carrie E. , Bangdiwala Shrikant I. , Buse John B. , Mann John D , Lynch Chanee , Phillips Pamela , Smith Sunyata , Leniek Karyn , Young Laura , Al-Barwani Saada , Yoo Jeena , Faurot Keturah
Published: August 2019

African Americans have disproportionately high rates of stress-related conditions, including diabetes and diabetes-related morbidity. Psychological stress may negatively influence engagement in risk-reducing lifestyle changes (physical activity and healthy eating) and stress-related physiology that increase diabetes risk. This study examined the feasibility of conducting a randomized trial comparing a novel mindfulness-based stress management program combined with diabetes risk-reduction education versus a conventional diabetes risk-reduction education program among African American adults with prediabetes and self-reported life stress. Participants were recruited in collaboration with community partners and randomized to the mindfulness-based diabetes risk-reduction education program for prediabetes (MPD; n = 38) or the conventional diabetes risk-reduction education program for prediabetes (CPD; n = 30). The mindfulness components were adapted from the Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction Program. The diabetes risk-reduction components were adapted from the Power to Prevent Program and the Diabetes Prevention Program. Groups met for eight weeks for 2.5 hours, with a half-day retreat and six-monthly boosters. Mixed-methods strategies were used to assess feasibility. Psychological, behavioral, and metabolic data were collected before the intervention and at three and six months postintervention to examine within-group change and feasibility of collecting such data in future clinical efficacy research. Participants reported acceptability, credibility, and cultural relevance of the intervention components. Enrollment of eligible participants (79%), intervention session attendance (76.5%), retention (90%), and postintervention data collection attendance (83%, 82%, and 78%, respectively) demonstrated feasibility, and qualitative data provided information to further enhance feasibility in future studies. Both groups exhibited an A1C reduction. MPD participants had reductions in perceived stress, BMI, calorie, carbohydrate and fat intake, and increases in spiritual well-being. Considering the high prevalence of diabetes and diabetes-related complications in African Americans, these novel findings provide promising guidance to develop a larger trial powered to examine efficacy of a mindfulness-based stress management and diabetes risk-reduction education program for African Americans with prediabetes.
Mechanical Behavior and Its Influencing Factors on Engineered Cementitious Composite Linings
Authors: Ding Zude , Fu Jiang , Li Xiaoqin , Ji Xiafei
Published: August 2019

A 1/5-scale model test was used to analyze and compare the mechanical responses of engineered cementitious composite (ECC) lining and traditional concrete lining under vertically concentrated loading. Test results indicate that the major failure mode of the lining cross section is controlled by tensile stress. ECC linings express better cracking control capability and deformation performance than the traditional concrete tunnel linings. On this basis, the effects of loading direction, material tensile properties, soil stiffness, and model size on the mechanical behavior of ECC and R/ECC linings were analyzed by numerical calculation. Parametric analysis shows that the failure modes of ECC and R/ECC linings along different load directions are caused by the loss of bearing capacity due to the formation of three plastic hinges. Lining damage under horizontal loading is more concentrated than those under vertical and oblique loading. Improving the tensile properties of ECC materials can help enhance the load capacity and deformability of linings. Soil stiffness obviously affects the postpeak deformation behavior of ECC linings, as shown by the sharp increase of the load-displacement curve with the increase of soil stiffness. The peak load and corresponding displacement of linings demonstrate nonlinear increase with the increase in model size.
Current Progress of Mitochondrial Quality Control Pathways Underlying the Pathogenesis of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Jiang Xue , Jin Tao , Zhang Haining , Miao Jing , Zhao Xiuzhen , Su Yana , Zhang Ying
Published: August 2019

Parkinson’s disease (PD), clinically characterized by motor and nonmotor symptoms, is a common progressive and multisystem neurodegenerative disorder, which is caused by both genetic and environmental risk factors. The main pathological features of PD are the loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons and the accumulation of alpha-synuclein (α-syn) in the residual DA neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). In recent years, substantial progress has been made in discovering the genetic factors of PD. In particular, a total of 19 PD-causing genes have been unraveled, among which some members have been regarded to be related to mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondria are key regulators of cellular metabolic activity and are critical for many important cellular processes including energy metabolism and even cell death. Their normal function is basically maintained by the mitochondrial quality control (MQC) mechanism. Accordingly, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), a kind of neurotoxin, exerts its neurotoxic effects at least partially by producing its toxic metabolite, namely, 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridine (MPP+), which in turn causes mitochondrial dysfunction by inhibiting complex I and mimicking the key features of PD pathogenesis. This review focused on three main aspects of the MQC signaling pathways, that is, mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial dynamics, and mitochondrial autophagy; hence, it demonstrates in detail how genetic and environmental factors result in PD pathogenesis by interfering with MQC pathways, thereby hopefully contributing to the discovery of novel potential therapeutic targets for PD.
Degassing and Cycling of Mercury at Nisyros Volcano (Greece)
Authors: Gagliano A. L. , Calabrese S. , Daskalopoulou K. , Cabassi J. , Capecchiacci F. , Tassi F. , Bellomo S. , Brusca L. , Bonsignore M. , Milazzo S. , Giudice G. , Li Vigni L. , Parello F. , D’Alessandro W.
Published: August 2019

Nisyros Island (Greece) is an active volcano hosting a high-enthalpy geothermal system. During June 2013, an extensive survey on Hg concentrations in different matrices (fumarolic fluids, atmosphere, soils, and plants) was carried out at the Lakki Plain, an intracaldera area affected by widespread soil and fumarolic degassing. Concentrations of gaseous elemental mercury (GEM), together with H2S and CO2, were simultaneously measured in both the fumarolic emissions and the atmosphere around them. At the same time, 130 samples of top soils and 31 samples of plants (Cistus creticus and salvifolius and Erica arborea and manipuliflora) were collected for Hg analysis. Mercury concentrations in fumarolic gases ranged from 10,500 to 46,300 ng/m3, while Hg concentrations in the air ranged from high background values in the Lakki Plain caldera (10-36 ng/m3) up to 7100 ng/m3 in the fumarolic areas. Outside the caldera, the concentrations were relatively low (2-5 ng/m3). The positive correlation with both CO2 and H2S in air highlighted the importance of hydrothermal gases as carrier for GEM. On the other hand, soil Hg concentrations (0.023-13.7 μg/g) showed no significant correlations with CO2 and H2S in the soil gases, whereas it showed a positive correlation with total S content and an inverse one with the soil pH, evidencing the complexity of the processes involving Hg carried by hydrothermal gases while passing through the soil. Total Hg concentrations in plant leaves (0.010-0.112 μg/g) had no direct correlation with soil Hg, with Cistus leaves containing higher values of Hg with respect to Erica. Even though GEM concentrations in the air within the caldera are sometimes orders of magnitude above the global background, they should not be considered dangerous to human health. Values exceeding the WHO guideline value of 1000 ng/m3 are very rare (<0.1%) and only found very close to the main fumarolic vents, where the access to tourists is prohibited.
Towards Optimization of Boosting Models for Formation Lithology Identification
Authors: Xie Yunxin , Zhu Chenyang , Lu Yue , Zhu Zhengwei
Published: August 2019

Lithology identification is an indispensable part in geological research and petroleum engineering study. In recent years, several mathematical approaches have been used to improve the accuracy of lithology classification. Based on our earlier work that assessed machine learning models on formation lithology classification, we optimize the boosting approaches to improve the classification ability of our boosting models with the data collected from the Daniudi gas field and Hangjinqi gas field. Three boosting models, namely, AdaBoost, Gradient Tree Boosting, and eXtreme Gradient Boosting, are evaluated with 5‐fold cross validation. Regularization is applied to the Gradient Tree Boosting and eXtreme Gradient Boosting to avoid overfitting. After adapting the hyperparameter tuning approach on each boosting model to optimize the parameter set, we use stacking to combine the three optimized models to improve the classification accuracy. Results suggest that the optimized stacked boosting model has better performance concerning the evaluation matrix such as precision, recall, and f1 score compared with the single optimized boosting model. Confusion matrix also shows that the stacked model has better performance in distinguishing sandstone classes.
Serum Zonulin in HBV-Associated Chronic Hepatitis, Liver Cirrhosis, and Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xin , Li Ming-ming , Niu Ye , Zhang Xin , Yin Ji-bin , Zhao Chang-jiu , Wang Rui-tao
Published: August 2019

Background. The gut microbiota is involved in the occurrence and development of chronic liver diseases. Zonulin is considered a marker of intestinal permeability. The purpose of this study was to assess zonulin levels in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), HBV-associated liver cirrhosis (LC), and HBV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Materials and Methods. The study population consisted of 90 HBV-associated HCC patients, 90 HBV-associated LC patients, 90 CHB patients, and 90 healthy subjects. Serum levels of zonulin and AFP were determined. The diagnostic accuracy of each marker was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis (AUC). Results. Serum zonulin levels were significantly higher in patients with HCC than in patients with LC or CHB or healthy subjects (p<0.001). Moreover, the zonulin levels were increased in the advanced stage of LC and HCC. ROC curve analysis revealed that serum zonulin could be used to differentiate CHB from cirrhosis. In addition, the combination of zonulin and AFP exhibited a significantly larger AUC compared with zonulin or AFP alone. Conclusions. Serum zonulin levels were significantly increased both in LC and in HCC and correlated with the advanced stage of LC and HCC. Moreover, the combination of zonulin and AFP confers significant benefit to diagnostic accuracy in differentiating LC from HCC.
Coronary Artery Fistula Diagnosed by Echocardiography during NSTEMI: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Acitelli Angelo , Bencivenga Sabrina , Giannico Maria B. , Lanzillo Chiara , Maresca Luciano , Petroni Renata , Penco Maria , Calò Leonardo , Romano Silvio
Published: August 2019

Coronary artery fistulas are rare abnormal connections between a coronary artery and a cardiac chamber or a major vessel. Often, they are asymptomatic and the diagnosis is accidental. The case we present is the incidental finding of a fistula displayed with echocardiography during acute coronary syndrome (ACS). A 73-year-old man presented in the emergency room for non-ST-elevation ACS. Echocardiogram showed in a parasternal short axis view an abnormal diastolic flow inside the ventricular inferior wall. Angiography and CT confirmed the diagnosis of coronary fistula from the right coronary into the left ventricular cavity. A literature analysis with discussion about coronary fistulas classification and management was also performed.
Risk Factors for Persistent or Recurrent Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: Yu Jia , Xu Gezhi , Chang Qing , Ye Xiaofeng , Li Lei , Jiang Chunhui , Zhao Qi
Published: August 2019

Purpose. To investigate the risk factors for persistent or recurrent central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Materials and Methods. Consecutive treatment-naïve CSC patients were included from January 2017 to October 2018. All patients were asked to complete questionnaires, addressing previously described risk factors for the development of CSC. Patients were divided into two groups: those with acute CSC, who were in the first episode, with spontaneous resolution of subretinal fluid within 3 months, and with no recurrence within 1 year; and those with persistent or recurrent CSC, the remaining patients. Results. In total, 138 patients were enrolled: 20 (14.5%) with acute CSC and 118 (85.5%) with persistent or recurrent CSC. Using multivariate analysis, male sex (odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence interval: 5.63 [1.02–31.02]; p=0.047), older age (OR: 1.14 [1.03–1.25]; p=0.008), and higher Insomnia Severity Index score (OR: 1.30 [1.05–1.60]; p=0.015) were found to be independently associated with persistent or recurrent CSC. Conclusions. Male sex, age, and sleep disorders are risk factors for persistent or recurrent CSC in the natural history. These patients may require early photodynamic therapy. Treatment for sleep disorders is strongly recommended. All CSC patients may require careful and periodic follow-up.
Development of Novel Topical Cosmeceutical Formulations from Nigella sativa L. with Antimicrobial Activity against Acne-Causing Microorganisms
Authors: Nawarathne Nirmani Wishwakala , Wijesekera Kanchana , Gaya Bandara Wijayaratne Weerasinghe Mudiyanselage Dilip , Napagoda Mayuri
Published: August 2019

Acne vulgaris occurs due to the inflammation of sebaceous follicles in the skin. It is triggered by the activity of some bacterial species like Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Acquisition of antibiotic resistance by these microorganisms and adverse effects associated with the current treatment regimens necessitate the introduction of novel therapeutic agents for acne vulgaris. Thus, this study was undertaken to develop novel gel formulations from seeds of Nigella sativa L. and to evaluate the antibacterial potential against some acne-causing bacterial species. The antibacterial activity of seed extracts was initially screened against S. aureus and P. acnes by the agar well diffusion method. Thereafter, topical gels were formulated incorporating the ethyl acetate extract of seeds of N. sativa at three different concentrations. These topical formulations were subjected to antimicrobial activity studies while the stability was evaluated over a period of 30 days. All three formulations were capable of inhibiting the growth of S. aureus and P. acnes, with the highest antibacterial activity in the formulation comprising 15% of the seed extract. Interestingly, the antibacterial potency of this formulation against S. aureus surpassed the commercial synthetic product used as the positive control. Moreover, any alteration in color, odor, homogeneity, washability, consistency, and pH was not observed while the antibacterial potency was also retained during the storage period. The potent antibacterial activity in topical gel formulations developed from the ethyl acetate extract of N. sativa signposts their suitability as alternatives to existing antiacne agents in the management of acne vulgaris.
Behaviors of Thin‐Walled Cylindrical Shell Storage Tank under Blast Impacts
Authors: Lu Shengzhuo , Wang Wei , Chen Weidong , Ma Jingxin , Shi Yaqin , Xu Chunlong
Published: August 2019

Large steel storage tanks designed with long‐span structures, employed for storing oil and fuel, have been widely used in many countries over the past twenty years. Most of these tanks are thin‐walled cylindrical shells. Owing to the high risk of gas explosions and the resulting deaths, injuries, and economic losses, more thorough damage analyses of these large structures should be conducted. This study examines the structural response of a simplified steel storage tank under a blast impact, as calculated by the LS‐DYNA software package. The numerical results are then compared with a scale‐model experiment. On that basis, the simplified storage tank prototype, which has a 15 × 104 m3 capacity, is analyzed using numerical simulation. In this study, we address issues around the variation in structural responses—particularly of the failure mode, resultant displacement, structural energy, and dynamic strain under the impact. In addition, we also discuss the effects of varying the internal liquid level, constraint conditions, and blast intensity.
Prooxidative Activity of Celastrol Induces Apoptosis, DNA Damage, and Cell Cycle Arrest in Drug-Resistant Human Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Moreira Helena , Szyjka Anna , Paliszkiewicz Kamila , Barg Ewa
Published: August 2019

Cancer resistance to chemotherapy is closely related to tumor heterogeneity, i.e., the existence of distinct subpopulations of cancer cells in a tumor mass. An important role is assigned to cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small subset of cancer cells with high tumorigenic potential and capacity of self-renewal and differentiation. These properties of CSCs are sustained by the ability of those cells to maintain a low intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, via upregulation of ROS scavenging systems. However, the accumulation of ROS over a critical threshold disturbs CSCs—redox homeostasis causing severe cytotoxic consequences. In the present study, we investigated the capacity of celastrol, a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid, to induce the formation of ROS and, consequently, cell death of the colon cancer cells with acquired resistant to cytotoxic drugs (LOVO/DX cell line). LOVO/DX cells express several important stem-like cell features, including a higher frequency of side population (SP) cells, higher expression of multidrug resistant proteins, overexpression of CSC-specific cell surface marker (CD44), increased expression of DNA repair gene (PARP1), and low intracellular ROS level. We found that celastrol, at higher concentrations (above 1 μM), significantly increased ROS amount in LOVO/DX cells at both cytoplasmic and mitochondrial levels. This prooxidant activity was associated with the induction of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and apoptotic/necrotic cell death, as well as with inhibition of cell proliferation by S phase cell cycle arrest. Coincubation with NAC, a ROS scavenger, completely reversed the above effects. In summary, our results provide evidence that celastrol exhibits effective cytotoxic effects via ROS-dependent mechanisms on drug-resistant colon cancer cells. These findings strongly suggest the potential of celastrol to effectively kill cancer stem-like cells, and thus, it is a promising agent to treat severe, resistant to conventional therapy, colon cancers.
Decreased Lipid Profile and Oxidative Stress in Healthy Subjects Who Underwent Whole-Body Cryotherapy in Closed Cryochamber with Subsequent Kinesiotherapy
Authors: Stanek Agata , Romuk Ewa , Wielkoszyński Tomasz , Bartuś Stanisław , Cieślar Grzegorz , Cholewka Armand
Published: August 2019

Objective. The aim of the study was to estimate the impact of whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) and subsequent kinesiotherapy on oxidative stress and lipid profile when performed in a closed cryochamber on healthy subjects. Material and Methods. The effect of ten WBC procedures lasting 3 minutes a day followed by a 60-minute session kinesiotherapy on oxidative stress and lipid profile in healthy subjects (WBC group, n=16) was investigated. The WBC group was compared to the kinesiotherapy only (KT; n=16) group. The routine parameters of oxidative stress (antioxidant enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant status, lipid peroxidation products, total oxidative status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI)) and lipid profile were estimated one day before the beginning and one day after the completion of the research program. Results. After treatment, in the WBC group, a significant decrease of oxidative stress markers (TOS and OSI) and a significant increase of total antioxidant capacity were observed. The activity of plasma SOD-Mn and erythrocyte total SOD increased significantly in the WBC group. In the KT group, the erythrocyte activity of total SOD, CAT, and GR decreased significantly after the treatment. The levels of T-Chol and LDL-Chol decreased significantly after treatment in both groups, but the observed decrease of these lipid parameters in the WBC group was higher in comparison to the KT group. The level of TG decreased significantly after treatment in the WBC group only. Conclusion. WBC performed in a closed cryochamber followed by kinesiotherapy improves lipid profile and decreases oxidative stress in healthy subjects.
Hepatitis B Knowledge, Testing, and Vaccination History among Undergraduate Public Health Students in Ghana
Authors: Osei Eric , Niyilapah John , Kofi Amenuvegbe Gregory
Published: August 2019

Background. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a serious public health problem in many parts of the world. The risk of acquiring the infection through exposure to blood, semen, and other bodily fluids is highest among health care workers (HCW) including trainees. Ghana is considered a high risk country for HBV; however little is known about the knowledge and prevention practices of the infection in the country. This study assessed the knowledge, testing, and vaccination history of HBV and their related factors among undergraduate public health students of University of Health and Allied Sciences in Ghana. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 226 students using a pretested questionnaire to assess Hepatitis B knowledge, testing, and vaccination history of the students. We performed logistic regression analysis to examine the relationship between Hepatitis B testing and vaccination history and participants’ characteristics. Data was analysed using Stata Version 12. Results. Majority 169 (73.9%) of the 226 participants studied had moderate knowledge regarding HBV infection. About half 114 (50.4%) of them had never been tested for HBV infection, and 100 (44.2%) had received at least a single dose of Hepatitis B vaccine. The completed vaccination rate among the students was 30.5%. Students in their 2nd year (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]: 3.13; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.13, 7.52; p<0.011) and those with moderate (AOR: 4.76; 95% CI; 1.35, 16.82; P=0.015) and good (AOR: 5.40; 95% CI: 1.31, 22.36; P=0.020) level of knowledge were more likely to be tested for HBV. With regard to vaccination, females (AOR: 1.85; 95%CI: 1.04-3.29; P=0.037) and regular students (AOR: 0.37; 95%CI: 0.19, 0.70; p=0.002) were associated with receiving the full dose of Hepatitis B vaccine. Conclusion. This study highlights the urgent need for continued health education on HBV infection and strategies that ensure that health trainees are screened and fully vaccinated against the infection to prevent potential future exposure to the virus. The students’ representative council can organize free HBV testing and vaccination for all fresh students.
Zoning Elastic Modulus Inversion for High Arch Dams Based on the PSOGSA‐SVM Method
Authors: Chen Bo , Fu Xiao , Guo Xuyuan , Gu Chongshi , Shao Chenfei , Qin Xiangnan
Published: August 2019

Real‐time monitoring of the actual elastic modulus is essential and necessary to ensure the safe operation of arch dams. The zoning elastic modulus of a high arch dam is inversed by using deformation safety monitoring data in the operation period, based on the particle swarm optimization with gravitation search algorithm for support vector machine (PSOGSA‐SVM) method. Firstly, the measured data of multipoints with a pendulum are separated to construct the initial sample training set; then, an optimal inversion model is established to reflect the complex nonlinear relationship between the mechanical parameters of the high arch dam and the deformation of measured points; finally, the PSOGSA‐SVM method is used to train and dynamically update the training set so as to realize the optimization solution of the inversion model. The proposed inversion method is successfully applied to a high arch dam in China to verify its feasibility and validity. The results show that the actual elastic modulus of the dam body is much larger than the initial elastic modulus, which is beneficial to structural stability.
Undersampled Blade Tip‐Timing Vibration Reconstruction under Rotating Speed Fluctuation: Uniform and Nonuniform Sensor Configurations
Authors: Chen Zhongsheng , He Jing , Zhan Chi
Published: August 2019

Blade tip‐timing (BTT) is a promising method of online monitoring rotating blade vibrations. Since BTT‐based vibration signals are typically undersampled, how to reconstruct characteristic vibrations from BTT signals is a big challenge. Existing reconstruction methods are mainly based on the assumption of constant rotation speeds. However, rotating speed fluctuation is inevitable in many engineering applications. In this case, the BTT sampling process should be nonuniform, which will cause existing reconstruction methods to be unavailable. In order to solve this problem, this paper proposes a new reconstruction method based on nonlinear time transformation (NTT). Firstly, the effects of rotating speed fluctuation on BTT vibration reconstruction are analyzed. Next, the NTT of BTT sampling times under rotating speed fluctuation is presented. Then, two NTT‐based reconstruction algorithms are derived for uniform and nonuniform BTT sensor configurations, respectively. Also several evaluation metrics of BTT vibration reconstruction under rotating speed fluctuation are defined. Finally, numerical simulations are done to verify the proposed algorithms. The results testify that the proposed NTT‐based reconstruction method can reduce effectively the influence of rotating speed fluctuation and decrease the reconstruction error. In addition, rotating speed fluctuation has more bad effects on the reconstruction method under nonuniform sensor configuration than under uniform sensor configuration. For nonuniform BTT signal reconstruction under rotating speed fluctuation, more attentions should be paid on selecting proper angles between BTT sensors. In summary, the proposed method will benefit for detecting early blade damages by reducing frequency aliasing.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Hong Kong Version of the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HK-KOOS) for Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Cheng Andy S. K. , Chan Ka-chun , Chan Sum-yuet , Fan Miu-kwan , Fung Man-kwan , Lee Oi-yan , Kwok Cindy T. T. , Wong Jackson K. K.
Published: August 2019

Introduction. This study aimed to validate the Hong Kong version of the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HK-KOOS) for patients with knee osteoarthritis.Methods. Content validity was assessed using the Item and Scale Content Validity Index (I-CVI and S-CVI). Test-retest reliability and internal consistency were assessed by the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach’s alpha. Dimensionality was assessed by performing exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Convergent and Divergent Validity was performed by examining the correlation between the HK-KOOS and the Chinese version of the Short Form 12 (SF-12) Health Survey, the Chinese Modified Barthel Index (C-MBI), and the Visual Analogue Scale for Pain (VAS-Pain). Ceiling and floor effects were also examined.Results. A total of 125 participants were recruited in this study. In general, all instructions, items, and response options were considered as understandable, indicating a satisfactory cross-cultural adaptation. The I-CVI and S-CVI scores were 0.80-1 and 0.90-1, respectively, indicating excellent content validity in terms of relevance, representativeness, and understandability. The test-retest reliability of all HK-KOOS subscales was satisfactory with ICC exceeding 0.70 for all domains. Cronbach’s alpha exceeded 0.80 for all subscales, indicating satisfactory internal consistency. Medium to strong correlations were found between the HK-KOOS and the VAS-Pain, SF-12, and C-MBI. However, factor analysis indicated a seven-factor structure, rather than the original five-factor structure. Items on pain and activities of daily living were loaded in the same factors. A floor effect was present in the sports and recreation subscale.Discussion and Conclusions. Future studies should further examine the dimensionality of the KOOS. The HK-KOOS is a culturally adapted, reliable, and valid outcome measure instrument to be used in Hong Kong patients with primary knee osteoarthritis.
Three-Layered Closure of Persistent Oroantral Fistula Using Chin Graft, Buccal Fat Pad, and Buccal Advancement Flap: A Case Report with Review of Literature
Authors: Sharma Shiv Prasad
Published: August 2019

Various techniques have been used for the repair of oroantral fistula (OAF) but majority of them have focused on the soft tissue closure alone, and most of the time, the osseous floor of the sinus was ignored. Existing literature supports that bone grafts supported by Buccal Fat Pad (BFP) heal well without undergoing significant resorption and necrosis. Through this case report, we wish to elaborate on the clinical success of using BFP and autogenous chin graft for simultaneous reconstruction of a large long-standing oroantral fistula with underlying osseous defect. The combination technique can prove beneficial for osseous regeneration of sinus floor and improve chances for future implant prosthetic rehabilitation.
Implication of IL-17 in Bone Loss and Structural Damage in Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: Le Goff Benoit , Bouvard Béatrice , Lequerre Thierry , Lespessailles Eric , Marotte Hubert , Pers Yves-Marie , Cortet Bernard
Published: August 2019

Proinflammatory cytokines play an important role in the systemic and focal bone loss associated with chronic inflammatory diseases. Targeting these cytokines with biologics and small molecules has led to a major improvement of the bone health of patients with inflammatory arthritis. Cytokines from the IL-17 family have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of several diseases such as spondyloarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or psoriasis. IL-17A has been the first described and the most studied. The recent development of targeted therapies against IL-17A or its receptor and their efficacy has confirmed the importance of this cytokine in the development of inflammatory diseases. The aim of this review was to describe the effects of the IL-17 family and more particularly of IL-17A on bone and cartilage tissues. At the cellular level, IL-17A is proosteoclastogenic whereas its effects on osteoblasts depend on the stage of differentiation of these cells.In vivo, IL-17A is not required for normal bone homeostasis but plays an important role in bone loss notably in an ovariectomized mouse model of osteoporosis. Preliminary data from clinical trials showed a stabilisation of bone density in patients treated with anti-IL-17A antibodies. IL-17A plays a central role in the cartilage damage through the induction of collagenases and by decreasing the expression of their inhibitors in synergy with the other proinflammatory cytokines. The prevention of structural damage by anti-IL-17A therapies has been demonstrated in several pivotal clinical trials. Overall, blocking the IL-17A pathway seems to have a positive effect on the bone and cartilage damage observed in inflammatory arthritis. Differences and specificity of these effects compared to those already described with other biologics such as anti-TNF therapies remain to be explored.
FXR Mediates Adenylyl Cyclase 8 Expression in Pancreatic β-Cells
Authors: Kong Xiangchen , Li Bingfeng , Deng Yushen , Ma Xiaosong
Published: August 2019

Adenylyl cyclase 8 (ADCY8) and Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR) have been identified in pancreatic β-cells and play important roles in insulin secretion. But the mechanisms underlying with respect to the regulation of ADCY8 expression in β-cells, particularly whether FXR is involved, remain unexplored. We now show that ADCY8 expression is decreased in Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rat islets compared with healthy Wistar controls. We also found that reduced ADCY8 is associated with decreased expression of FXR. Consistently, ADCY8 expression was suppressed by the knockdown of FXR in INS-1 832/13 cells, as well as the islets from FXR knockout mice. On the contrary, ADCY8 expression was increased in FXR-overexpressed INS-1 832/13 cells or in the case of FXR activation. Mechanistically, FXR directly binds to Adcy8 promoter and recruits the histone acetyltransferase Steroid Receptor Coactivator 1 (SRC1), thereby resulting in the increased acetylation of histone H3 in Adcy8 locus, promoting Adcy8 gene transcription in β-cells. Thus, this study indicates that FXR is a critical transcription factor that mediates ADCY8 expression in pancreatic β-cells and has characterized the chromatin modification associated with Adcy8 transcription.
Sargassum fusiforme Fucoidan SP2 Extends the Lifespan of Drosophila melanogaster by Upregulating the Nrf2-Mediated Antioxidant Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Ya , Xu Man , Hu Chenxi , Liu Amei , Chen Junjie , Gu Chenfei , Zhang Xu , You Cuiping , Tong Haibin , Wu Mingjiang , Chen Peichao
Published: August 2019

Damage accumulated in the genome and macromolecules is largely attributed to increased oxidative damage and a lack of damage repair in a cell, and this can eventually trigger the process of aging. Alleviating the extent of oxidative damage is therefore considered as a potential way to promote longevity. SFPS, a heteropolysaccharide extracted from the brown alga Sargassum fusiforme, has previously been shown to alleviate oxidative damage during the aging process in mice, but whether SFPS could extend the lifespan of an organism was not demonstrated. Furthermore, the precise component within SFPS that is responsible for the antioxidant activity and the underlying mechanism of such activity was also not resolved. In this study, SP2, a fucoidan derived from SFPS, was shown to exhibit strong antioxidant activity as measured by in vitro radical-scavenging assays. SP2 also improved the survival rate of D. melanogaster subjected to oxidative stress. The flies that were fed with a diet containing SP2 from the time of eclosion displayed significant enhancement in lifespan and reduced accumulation of triglyceride at the old-age stage. In addition, SP2 markedly improved the activities of the antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and reduced the contents of the malondialdehyde (MDA) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) in old flies. Furthermore, SP2 also upregulated the expression levels of the nuclear factor-erythroid-2-like 2 (nfe2l2 or nrf2) and its downstream target genes, accompanied by a dramatic reduction in the expression of kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (keap1, a canonical inhibitor of the Nrf2) in old flies. Additional support linking the crucial role of the Nrf2/ARE pathway to the antioxidant effect of SP2 was the relatively high survival rate under heat stress for D. melanogaster individuals receiving SP2 supplement, an effect that was abolished by the inclusion of inhibitors specific for the Nrf2/ARE pathway. Collectively, the results indicated that SP2, a S. fusiforme fucoidan, could promote longevity in D. melanogaster by enhancing the Nrf2-mediated antioxidant signaling pathway during the aging process.
Vaccine Development against the Renin-Angiotensin System for the Treatment of Hypertension
Authors: Azegami Tatsuhiko , Itoh Hiroshi
Published: August 2019

Hypertension is a global public health issue and the most important preventable cause of cardiovascular diseases. Despite the clinical availability of many antihypertensive drugs, many hypertensive patients have poor medication adherence and blood pressure control due, at least partially, to the asymptomatic and chronic characteristics of hypertension. Immunotherapeutic approaches have the potential to improve medication adherence in hypertension because they induce prolonged therapeutic effects and need a low frequency of administration. The first attempts to reduce blood pressure by using vaccines targeting the renin-angiotensin system were made more than half a century ago; however, at the time, a poor understanding of immunology and the mechanisms of hypertension and a lack of optimal vaccine technologies such as suitable antigen design, proper adjuvants, and effective antigen delivery systems meant that attempts to develop antihypertensive vaccines failed. Recent advances in immunology and vaccinology have provided potential therapeutic immunologic approaches to treat not only infectious diseases but also cancers and other noncommunicable diseases. One important biotechnology that has had a major impact on modern vaccinology is virus-like particle technology, which can efficiently deliver vaccine antigens without the need for artificial adjuvants. A human clinical trial that indicated the effectiveness and safety of a virus-like particle-based antiangiotensin II vaccine marked a turning point in the field of therapeutic antihypertensive vaccines. Here, we review the history of the development of immunotherapies for the treatment of hypertension and discuss the current perspectives in the field.
The Research Progress of Host Genes and Tuberculosis Susceptibility
Authors: Cai Li , Li Zhan , Guan Xuhua , Cai Kun , Wang Lei , Liu Jiafa , Tong Yeqing
Published: August 2019

Background/Aims. Nucleotide diversity may affect the immune regulation of tuberculosis (TB) patients, leading to the individual susceptibility to TB. In recent years, there are a lot of researches on the association of host genetic factors and TB susceptibility which has attracted increasing attention, and the in-depth study of its mechanism is gradually clear.Materials. We made a minireview on the association of many candidate genes with TB based on recent research studies systematically, such as the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) gene, the solute carrier family 11 member 1 (SLC11A1) gene system, the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene, the mannan-binding lectin (MBL) gene, the nitric oxide synthase 2A (NOS2A) gene, the speckled 110 (SP110) gene, and the P2X7 receptor (P2X7) gene. The discovery of these candidate genes could reveal the pathogenesis of TB comprehensively and is crucial to provide scientific evidence for formulating the related measures of prevention and cure.Discussion. The host genes play important roles in the development of TB, and the host genes may become new targets for the prevention and treatment of TB. Effective regulation of host genes may help prevent or even treat TB.Conclusion. This minireview focuses on the association of host genes with the development of TB, which may supply some clues for future therapies and novel drug targets for TB.
The Role of Exosomes in Bone Remodeling: Implications for Bone Physiology and Disease
Authors: Masaoutis Christos , Theocharis Stamatios
Published: August 2019

Bone remodeling represents a physiological phenomenon of continuous bone tissue renewal that requires fine orchestration of multiple cell types, which is critical for the understanding of bone disease but not yet clarified in precise detail. Exosomes, which are cell-secreted nanovesicles drawing increasing attention for their broad biosignaling functions, can shed new light on how multiple heterogeneous cells communicate for the purpose of bone remodeling. In the healthy bone, exosomes transmit signals favoring both bone synthesis and resorption, regulating the differentiation, recruitment, and activity of most cell types involved in bone remodeling and even assuming an active role in extracellular matrix mineralization. Additionally, in the ailing bone, they actively participate in pathogenic processes constituting also potential therapeutic agents and drug vectors. The present review summarizes the current knowledge on bone exosomes and bone remodeling in health and disease.
Modeling the Evolution of a Freshwater Lens under Highly Dynamic Conditions on a Currently Developing Barrier Island
Authors: Holt Tobias , Greskowiak Janek , Seibert Stephan L. , Massmann Gudrun
Published: August 2019

The drinking water supply on barrier islands largely depends on freshwater lenses, which are also highly relevant for island ecosystems. The freshwater lens presented in this study is currently developing (since the 1970s) below the very young eastern part of the North Sea barrier island Spiekeroog, the so-called “Ostplate.” Due to the absence of coastal protection measures, formation, shape, and extent of the freshwater lens below the Ostplate are unaffected by human activities but exposed to dynamic changes, e.g., geomorphological variations and storm tides. The main aim of this paper was to reconstruct the evolution of the freshwater lens over several decades in order to explain the present-day groundwater salinity distribution. In addition, the study assessed the impact of geomorphological variations and storm tides on the freshwater lens formation. Detailed field observations were combined with a transient 2-D density-dependent modeling approach. Both field observations and simulations show an asymmetric freshwater lens after ~42 years of formation, whereby the horizontal extent is limited by the elevated dune area. The simulations indicate that the young freshwater lens has nearly reached quasi-steady-state conditions mainly due to the continuous mixing with seawater infiltrating during storm tides, which inhibits further growth of the freshwater lens on the narrow island. The findings further show that (i) a neglection of storm tides results in a significant overestimation of the freshwater lens extent, and (ii) the modeled present groundwater salinity distribution and shape of the freshwater lens are predominantly determined by the position and extent of the elevated dune area at the past ~20 years. Hence, annual storm tides have to be directly implemented into numerical models to explain the groundwater salinity distribution and the extent of young freshwater lenses located in highly dynamic tidal environments.
PARP1 Inhibition Radiosensitizes Models of Inflammatory Breast Cancer to Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Michmerhuizen Anna R. , Pesch Andrea M. , Moubadder Leah , Chandler Benjamin C. , Wilder-Romans Kari , Cameron Meleah , Olsen Eric , Thomas Dafydd G. , Zhang Amanda , Hirsh Nicole , Ritter Cassandra L. , Liu Meilan , Nyati Shyam , Pierce Lori J. , Jagsi Reshma , Speers Corey
Published: August 2019

Sustained locoregional control of disease is a significant issue in patients with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC), with local control rates of 80% or less at 5 years. Given the unsatisfactory outcomes for these patients, there is a clear need for intensification of local therapy, including radiation. Inhibition of the DNA repair protein PARP1 has had little efficacy as a single agent in breast cancer outside of studies restricted to patients with BRCA mutations; however, PARP1 inhibition (PARPi) may lead to the radiosensitization of aggressive tumor types. Thus, this study investigates inhibition of PARP1 as a novel and promising radiosensitization strategy in IBC. In multiple existing IBC models (SUM-149, SUM-190, MDA-IBC-3), PARPi (AZD2281-olaparib and ABT-888-veliparib) had limited single-agent efficacy (IC50 > 10 μmol/L) in proliferation assays. Despite limited single-agent efficacy, submicromolar concentrations of AZD2281 in combination with RT led to significant radiosensitization (rER 1.12–1.76). This effect was partially dependent on BRCA1 mutational status. Radiosensitization was due, at least in part, to delayed resolution of double strand DNA breaks as measured by multiple assays. Using a SUM-190 xenograft model in vivo, the combination of PARPi and RT significantly delays tumor doubling and tripling times compared with PARPi or RT alone with limited toxicity. This study demonstrates that PARPi improves the effectiveness of radiotherapy in IBC models and provides the preclinical rationale for the opening phase II randomized trial of RT ± PARPi in women with IBC (SWOG 1706, NCT03598257).
Associations of Leptin Receptor and Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma Polymorphisms with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liang Jialang , Lan Jiarong , Li Min , Wang Fang
Published: August 2019

Background: Previous studies on associations of leptin receptor (LEPR) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARG) polymorphisms with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) yielded conflicting results. Objectives: In this meta-analysis, we aimed to better analyze the relationship between LEPR/PPARG polymorphisms and PCOS in a larger pooled population. Methods: We performed a systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and CNKI. We calculated pooled ORs and 95% CIs to estimate associations between LEPR/PPARG polymorphisms and PCOS. Results: Totally, 33 eligible studies were included. A significant association with susceptibility to PCOS was observed for LEPR rs1137101 polymorphism under recessive genetic model (p = 0.002, OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.26–2.78, I2 = 42%) and for PPARG rs1801282 polymorphism under dominant (p = 0.007, OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.05–1.36, I2 = 49%), overdominant (p = 0.02, OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.74–0.97, I2 = 48%), and allele (p = 0.006, OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.05–1.33, I2 = 47%) genetic models in overall population. Further subgroup analyses by ethnicity revealed that LEPR rs1137101 and PPARG rs3856806 polymorphisms were both significantly associated with susceptibility to PCOS in Asians. No any positive results were detected in overall and subgroup analyses. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis suggested that LEPR rs1137101, PPARG rs1801282, and rs3856806 polymorphisms were all significantly associated with individual susceptibility to PCOS in certain populations.