bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Study of the Cracking Effect of Induced Joints of Various Spatial Formations
Authors: Li Haifeng , Li BingQi , Yang Bo
Published: January 2019

The use of induced joints is a common cracking control measure used in the design of roller compacted concrete arch dams. Currently, in some projects in which radial twisted joints were used, during the construction period, some cracks appeared around the induced joints while the joints themselves failed to open. From the fracture mechanics point of view, this problem is related to the variations in the spatial formation of the induced joint planes. In this study, we formulated numerical examples involving square plate and cylindrical arch dam with joints of various planar spatial formations and used the virtual crack‐closure technique and the Richard brittle fracture criterion to obtain the equivalent stress intensity factor of the joint plane, and we studied the joint plane stress intensity factor based on the variations in the joint plane formation angle. Based on the reciprocal of the normalized stress intensity factor, we obtained the equivalent strength correction coefficient for induced joints of varying plane angles, referred to in this study as the joint plane formation factor ψ(α), in order to reflect the influence of varying joint plane formations on the induced joint cracking. Our study results show that as the joint plane angle continuously increases, it is more difficult for the induced joints to open, which implies a gradual increase in the equivalent strength of the joint plane. Therefore, in the actual design of rolled concrete arch dams, the straight transverse joint layout should be used for induced joints. If the use of the radial twisted joint layout is necessary, the joint plane angle should not exceed 10°.
Neonatal Mortality in Hospitalized Chinese Population: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Baoquan , Dai Yue , Chen Hanqiang , Yang Changyi
Published: January 2019

Objective. In this meta-analysis, we aim to investigate the neonatal mortality in hospitalized Chinese population in the recent 20 years in China, which may provide basis for decreasing the neonatal mortality. Methods. The merged mortality was estimated based on the random effect model, and subgroup analysis was performed for the gender, publication year, gestational age, and birth weight. Sensitivity analysis was utilized to evaluate the effects of research type and research quality on the effects. Results. The neonatal mortality in eastern China was lower than that of the central and western China (2.3% versus 2.9; 2.3% versus 26.%). The mortality in neonates with a gestational age of 28-32 weeks (0.6%) was significantly higher than that of <28 weeks (0.1%), 32-37 weeks (0.3%), 37-42 weeks (0.4%), and >42 weeks (0.1%). The mortality in those with a body weight of 1.0-2.5 kg (0.3%) was significantly higher than that of 2.5-4.0 kg (0.2%) and >4.0 kg (0.0%). Sensitivity analysis revealed that the findings of meta-analysis were stable. The major causes for neonatal death included asphyxia, respiratory distress syndrome, and infection. Conclusions. The hospitalized neonatal mortality showed a tendency of decrease, which differed based on gender, region, gestational age, and birth weight.
Repeatability and High‐Speed Validation of Supplemental Lead‐Extrusion Energy Dissipation Devices
Authors: Rodgers Geoffrey W. , Chase J. Geoffrey , Mander John B.
Published: January 2019

Recent research on supplemental damping enabling low to no damage structures has led to new devices, such as lead‐extrusion‐based high force‐to‐volume (HF2V) devices. They provide significant energy dissipation and force capacity in a small volume, enabling a range of novel low to no damage connections and systems. However, despite several research study tests and a limited range of velocity testing, they have never been tested across a realistic velocity range or for robustness to manufacture and design across several devices. These issues are hurdles that limit professional design uptake and add uncertainty and risk to their use in design. To address them, a serious damage‐free dissipation device characterise its force capacity and variability due to manufacture (repeatable quasistatic force) and velocity input (peak force to connections). These outcomes are critical to size all the connections and foundations for the resultant demands and ensure robust, effective design. This manuscript presents the quasistatic testing of 96 devices designed for the same quasistatic force capacity, as well as high‐speed prototype testing at velocities up to 200 mm/sec. Quasistatic tests show device forces vary with standard deviation, σ < 6.2% of design and average force. Peak input velocities of ∼200 mm/s produced peak resistive forces of ∼350 kN and increasingly weak velocity dependence as device input velocity increased, which is an advantage as it limits large demand forces to connecting elements and surrounding structure if larger than expected response velocities occur. Overall, the devices show stable hysteretic performance, with slight force reduction during high‐speed testing due to heat build‐up and softening of the lead working material. This testing quantified important HF2V device dynamics and robustness for designers and is an important step towards design uptake.
Clinical Correlations of Novel Autoantibodies in Patients with Dry Eye
Authors: Karakus Sezen , Baer Alan N. , Akpek Esen K.
Published: January 2019

Background. Diagnostic criteria for Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) are continually being updated in pursuit of more precise and earlier diagnosis to prevent its complications. Owing to the high rate of false negative traditional serological markers, the need for better serological testing remains. Objective. To investigate the clinical significance of three recently discovered novel autoantibodies, anti-salivary gland protein 1 (SP1), anti-carbonic anhydrase 6 (CA6), and anti-parotid secretory protein (PSP), in a cohort of dry eye patients with suspected underlying inflammatory/autoimmune disease. Methods. Medical records of 136 patients with a primary diagnosis of dry eye who underwent laboratory testing between April 2014 and July 2017 were reviewed retrospectively. Data regarding demographic information, ocular and systemic symptoms, previous medical diagnoses, serological test results, and minor salivary gland biopsy results were collected. Dry eye evaluations included tear osmolarity, Schirmer test without anesthesia, conjunctival lissamine green staining, and corneal fluorescein staining in the order listed here. Results. Of the 136 patients, 9 (9/136, 6.6%) presented with a history of SS, and 9 additional patients (9/127, 7%) received a new diagnosis of SS as a result of evaluations. Fifty-six patients (56/136, 41%) tested positive for at least one of the novel autoantibodies. Fifty-four percent (6/11) of patients with primary SS who underwent the novel serological testing had a positive anti-PSP. Of those, 2 (2/11, 18%) had negative traditional serology and had to undergo minor salivary gland biopsy for definitive diagnosis. Anti-CA6 was associated with increased corneal and conjunctival staining after adjusting for age, sex, and other serologic markers (HR=1.5, 95% CI=1.20-1.97, and p=0.009 and HR=1.4, 95% CI=1.04-1.76, and p=0.02, respectively). Conclusions. This cross-sectional study demonstrated that anti-CA6 is seen in patients with severe aqueous-deficient dry eye. Whether these patients have an early stage of SS or a different type of autoimmune condition may be determined through longitudinal studies.
Floor Failure Evolution Mechanism for a Fully Mechanized Longwall Mining Face above a Confined Aquifer
Authors: Zhai Jinghui , Liu Danlong , Li Gang , Wang Fangtian
Published: January 2019

In longwall mining, the risk of water inrushes from the floors of deeply buried coal seams is closely related to the degree and depth of the destruction for the mining floor. To analyze the main factors affecting floor failure and the evolution of such failures, this study considered the LW2703 working face of the Chengjiao Coal Mine in China, which is characterized by a large buried depth, complex fault structure, and high pressure from a confined aquifer. The characteristics affecting floor crack development depth were analyzed by considering friction angle, cohesion force, floor pressure, stress increase coefficient, and peak position. A FLAC3D simulation was performed to compare the degrees of floor damage that occurred for caving and backfilling methods during the mining process. High‐density electrical detection was performed on‐site and used to (1) determine the maximum depth range of the floor damage, (2) reveal the laws governing the evolution of damage in a mining floor, and (3) provide a reasonable basis for evaluating and preventing floor water inrush accidents.
Decreased Nuclear Ascorbate Accumulation Accompanied with Altered Genomic Methylation Pattern in Fibroblasts from Arterial Tortuosity Syndrome Patients
Authors: Németh Csilla E. , Nemoda Zsófia , Lőw Péter , Szabó Pál , Horváth Erzsébet Z. , Willaert Andy , Boel Annekatrien , Callewaert Bert L. , Coucke Paul J. , Colombi Marina , Bánhegyi Gábor , Margittai Éva
Published: January 2019

Ascorbate requiring Fe2+/2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases located in the nucleoplasm have been shown to participate in epigenetic regulation of gene expression via histone and DNA demethylation. Transport of dehydroascorbic acid is impaired in the endomembranes of fibroblasts from arterial tortuosity syndrome (ATS) patients, due to the mutation in the gene coding for glucose transporter GLUT10. We hypothesized that altered nuclear ascorbate concentration might be present in ATS fibroblasts, affecting dioxygenase activity and DNA demethylation. Therefore, our aim was to characterize the subcellular distribution of vitamin C, the global and site-specific changes in 5-methylcytosine and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine levels, and the effect of ascorbate supplementation in control and ATS fibroblast cultures. Diminished nuclear accumulation of ascorbate was found in ATS fibroblasts upon ascorbate or dehydroascorbic acid addition. Analyzing DNA samples of cultured fibroblasts from controls and ATS patients, a lower global 5-hydroxymethylcytosine level was found in ATS fibroblasts, which could not be significantly modified by ascorbate addition. Investigation of the (hydroxy)methylation status of specific regions in six candidate genes related to ascorbate metabolism and function showed that ascorbate addition could stimulate hydroxymethylation and active DNA demethylation at the PPAR-γ gene region in control fibroblasts only. The altered DNA hydroxymethylation patterns in patient cells both at the global level and at specific gene regions accompanied with decreased nuclear accumulation of ascorbate suggests the epigenetic role of vitamin C in the pathomechanism of ATS. The present findings represent the first example for the role of vitamin C transport in epigenetic regulation suggesting that ATS is a compartmentalization disease.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Renal Fibrosis: The Flame of Cytotherapy
Authors: Zhuang Quan , Ma Ruoyu , Yin Yanshuang , Lan Tianhao , Yu Meng , Ming Yingzi
Published: January 2019

Renal fibrosis, as the fundamental pathological process of chronic kidney disease (CKD), is a pathologic extension of the normal wound healing process characterized by endothelium injury, myofibroblast activation, macrophage migration, inflammatory signaling stimulation, matrix deposition, and remodelling. Yet, the current method of treating renal fibrosis is fairly limited, including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition, angiotensin receptor blockade, optimal blood pressure control, and sodium bicarbonate for metabolic acidosis. MSCs are pluripotent adult stem cells that can differentiate into various types of tissue lineages, such as the cartilage (chondrocytes), bone (osteoblasts), fat (adipocytes), and muscle (myocytes). Because of their many advantages like ubiquitous sources, convenient procurement and collection, low immunogenicity, and low adverse effects, with their special identification markers, mesenchymal stem MSC-based therapy is getting more and more attention. Based on the mechanism of renal fibrosis, MSCs mostly participate throughout the renal fibrotic process. According to the latest and overall literature reviews, we aim to elucidate the antifibrotic mechanisms and effects of diverse sources of MSCs on renal fibrosis, assess their efficacy and safety in preliminarily clinical application, answer the controversial questions, and provide novel ideas into the MSC cellular therapy of renal fibrosis.
Marginal Cost Pricing Analysis on Tradable Credits in Traffic Engineering
Authors: Gao Ge , Liu Xinmin , Sun Huijun , Wu Jianjun , Liu Haiqing , Wang Wei (Walker) , Wang Zhen , Wang Tao , Du Haoming
Published: January 2019

This paper tries to explore a more applicable tradable credit scheme for managing network mobility from the angle of marginal cost pricing. The classic mathematical model‐Cobweb model is used to analyze the stability of credit price. It is found that credit price is not always convergent in the trading market. It will show convergence, divergence, two‐period simple behaviors, and even more complex dynamic behaviors, such as cycle movements and chaos. Considering the applicability and public goods character of tradable credits scheme, one public pricing mechanism‐ marginal cost pricing is explored. Analytical investigations and the numerical simulation of a particular case with linear demand and supply indicate that marginal cost pricing is an effective, sustainable, and socially feasible manner in managing the demand for car travel.
Immunomodulatory Effects of Combination Therapy with Bushen Formula plus Entecavir for Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Authors: Ji Long-Shan , Gao Qiu-Tian , Guo Ruo-Wen , Zhang Xin , Zhou Zhen-Hua , Yu Zhuo , Zhu Xiao-Jun , Gao Ya-Ting , Sun Xue-Hua , Gao Yue-Qiu , Li Man
Published: January 2019

Aim. To compare the clinical efficacy of the combination therapy with Bushen formula (BSF) plus entecavir (ETV) in naïve chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients and that in CHB patients with partial virological response to ETV and explore the relevant immunoregulatory mechanism. Materials and Methods. Two hundred and twenty CHB patients were enrolled in the historical prospective cohort study. Patients were categorized into a treatment group (T-Group: combination therapy with BSF plus ETV) and a control group (C-Group: ETV). Patients in T-Group and C-Group were grouped into T1/C1 (treatment-naïve patients) and T2/C2 (patients with partial virological response to ETV). Biochemical assessment, viral load quantitation, and HBV markers were tested. Chinese medicine symptom complex score was evaluated and recorded as well. In addition, peripheral blood mononuclear cells were separated from blood samples in 56 patients and 11 healthy donors. The frequencies of Th1, Treg, and dendritic cells (DCs) and expression levels of PD-1/PD-L1 were examined by flow cytometry. Results. In treatment-naïve CHB patients, complete viral suppression rates in HBeAg(−) patients were higher than those in HBeAg(+) patients in both T and C groups. In patients with partial virological response to ETV, the rate of HBsAg decline ≥ 20% in HBeAg(+) patients of T2-Group was higher than that in HBeAg(+) patients of C2-Group. A significant reduction of Chinese medicine symptom complex score was only observed in T-Group. The study of mechanism showed that, compared with healthy controls, Th1 and DC frequencies were decreased in all CHB patients, while Treg frequency was increased only in treatment-naïve patients. In addition, compared with healthy controls, PD-1 expression levels on Th1 and Treg were increased in all patients and PD-L1 expression levels on DCs were increased only in treatment-naïve patients. In treatment-naïve patients, the combination therapy with BSF plus ETV increased Th1 and DC frequencies and decreased Treg frequency, which was correlated with HBsAg decline. In addition, in patients with partial virological response to ETV, the combination therapy downregulated PD-L1 levels on DCs and the frequency of Treg, which was related with HBsAg decline. Conclusions. In patients with partial virological response to ETV, HBeAg(+) patients tend to achieve ideal effects after the combination therapy with BSF plus ETV, which may correlate with the decrease of Treg frequency and the downregulation of PD-L1 levels on DCs.
Sex Determination of Three-Dimensional Skull Based on Improved Backpropagation Neural Network
Authors: Yang Wen , Liu Xiaoning , Wang Kegang , Hu Jiabei , Geng Guohua , Feng Jun
Published: January 2019

Sex determination from skeletons is a significant step in the analysis of forensic anthropology. Previous skeletal sex assessments were analyzed by anthropologists’ subjective vision and sexually dimorphic features. In this paper, we proposed an improved backpropagation neural network (BPNN) to determine gender from skull. It adds the momentum term to improve the convergence speed and avoids falling into local minimum. The regularization operator is used to ensure the stability of the algorithm, and the Adaboost integration algorithm is used to improve the generalization ability of the model. 267 skulls were used in the experiment, of which 153 were females and 114 were males. Six characteristics of the skull measured by computer-aided measurement are used as the network inputs. There are two structures of BPNN for experiment, namely, [6; 6; 2] and [6; 12; 2], of which the [6; 12; 2] model has better average accuracy. While η = 0.5 and α = 0.9, the classification accuracy is the best. The accuracy rate of the training stage is 97.232%, and the mean squared error (MSE) is 0.01; the accuracy rate of the testing stage is 96.764%, and the MSE is 1.016. Compared with traditional methods, it has stronger learning ability, faster convergence speed, and higher classification accuracy.
Data-Driven Prediction System of Dynamic People-Flow in Large Urban Network Using Cellular Probe Data
Authors: Chen Xiaoxuan , Wan Xia , Ding Fan , Li Qing , McCarthy Charlie , Cheng Yang , Ran Bin
Published: January 2019

Cellular probe data, which is collected by cellular network operators, has emerged as a critical data source for human-trace inference in large-scale urban areas. However, because cellular probe data of individual mobile phone users is temporally and spatially sparse (unlike GPS data), few studies predicted people-flow using cellular probe data in real-time. In addition, it is hard to validate the prediction method at a large scale. This paper proposed a data-driven method for dynamic people-flow prediction, which contains four models. The first model is a cellular probe data preprocessing module, which removes the inaccurate and duplicated records of cellular data. The second module is a grid-based data transformation and data integration module, which is proposed to integrate multiple data sources, including transportation network data, point-of-interest data, and people movement inferred from real-time cellular probe data. The third module is a trip-chain based human-daily-trajectory generation module, which provides the base dataset for data-driven model validation. The fourth module is for dynamic people-flow prediction, which is developed based on an online inferring machine-learning model (random forest). The feasibility of dynamic people-flow prediction using real-time cellular probe data is investigated. The experimental result shows that the proposed people-flow prediction system could provide prediction precision of 76.8% and 70% for outbound and inbound people, respectively. This is much higher than the single-feature model, which provides prediction precision around 50%.
Evaluation of Rainfall and Temperature Conditions for a Perennial Crop in Tropical Wetland: A Case Study of Cocoa in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Yoroba Fidèle , Kouassi Benjamin K. , Diawara Adama , Yapo Louis A. M. , Kouadio Kouakou , Tiemoko Dro T. , Kouadio Yves K. , Koné Ibrahim D. , Assamoi Paul
Published: January 2019

The rainfall and temperature conditions are evaluated for the first time during the 1989–2006 period, in six main cocoa production areas (Abengourou, Agboville, Daloa, Dimbokro, Guiglo, and Soubre) of Côte d’Ivoire using data from SODEXAM (ground-based observation) and the ex-CAISTAB. Statistical analysis shows an important sensitivity of cocoa production to rainfall conditions in all regions. It is worth noting that only the major rainy season from April to July and the rainfall amount of the little dry season from August to September affect the cocoa production for an 80% confidence level. This influence varies from one cacao production area to another. Moreover, the effects related to temperature on the cocoa yield seem to represent a smaller contribution of climate impact than those related to precipitation during the studied period. The temperature change remains in the acceptable range of values, between 25°C and 29°C, which is a favorable condition for cocoa growing. These findings are obtained despite the significant contributions from nonclimatic factors, to year-to-year variability in cocoa production.
Downregulation of Aquaporin 3 Mediated the Laxative Effect in the Rat Colon by a Purified Resin Glycoside Fraction from Pharbitis Semen
Authors: Zhu Dongrong , Chen Chen , Bai Lijuan , Kong Lingyi , Luo Jianguang
Published: January 2019

Background. Pharbitis Semen, the seeds ofPharbitis nil, is widely used as a traditional purgative medicine in China, Korea, and Japan. This study investigated the laxative effects of a purified resin glycoside fraction obtained in our previous study from Pharbitis Semen in vivo and in vitro.Materials and Methods. After orally administering a purified resin glycoside fraction from Pharbitis Semen (RFP) to rats, the content of fecal water, AQP3, NF-κB, COX-2 expression, and the prostaglandin E2(PGE2) concentrations in the colon were examined. Moreover, human intestinal epithelial cells (HT-29) were used to investigate the mechanism of RFP decreasing the AQP3 expression.Results. Results obtained showed that treatment with RFP increased the feces excretion and fecal water content of rats in a dose-dependent manner. More interestingly, AQP3 expression was suppressed by RFP treatment both in the rat colons and in HT-29 cells, while the NF-κB pathway-mediated PGE2production was activated. Interestingly, pretreating rats with BAY-11-7082 (NF-κB inhibitor) or indomethacin (COX-2 inhibitor) and RFP neither induced diarrhea nor decreased the AQP3 expression in the colon.Conclusions. The purgative property of the purified resin glycoside fraction was attributed to NF-κB activation in the colon, which increased the COX-2-mediated secretion of PGE2. PGE2decreased AQP3 expression which inhibits water absorbed from the intestine to the blood vessel side, resulting in the laxative effect of RFP.
Direct Benzyl Alcohol and Benzaldehyde Synthesis from Toluene over Keggin-Type Polyoxometalates Catalysts: Kinetic and Mechanistic Studies
Authors: Djaouida Allam , Sadia Mansouri , Smaïn Hocine
Published: January 2019

The catalytic activity of various Keggin polyoxometalate catalysts has been investigated in the gas-phase partial oxidation of toluene to produce benzyl alcohol and benzaldehyde. The catalyst systems HPMo12O40, HPMo11VO40, FePMo12O40, and PMo11FeO39were prepared and characterized by FT-IR, UV-visible, SEM, XRD, TGA, and cyclic voltammetry. The acid/base properties were evaluated using the decomposition of isopropanol. Catalytic studies were carried under atmospheric pressure and over the temperature range 200°C–350°C, using carbon dioxide as a mild oxidant. Toluene conversion and product distribution depend mainly on the catalyst composition and operating conditions. In addition to benzaldehyde, benzyl alcohol is obtained with a high selectivity on the PMo11FeO39catalyst. The kinetic data show that the reoxidation of the reduced catalyst is the rate-limiting step for the partial oxidation reaction of toluene.
Evolutionary Game between Government and Ride-Hailing Platform: Evidence from China
Authors: Sun Qipeng , He Yuqi , Wang Yongjie , Ma Fei
Published: January 2019

The ride-hailing industry is a new business form that combines traditional taxi services with Internet technology and a sharing economy. However, after its emergence, countries have focused on finding ways to regulate this industry. The regulation of ride-hailing has gone through three stages: from denial of negation to laissez-faire and prudential supervision. This study focuses on the market regulation of the ride-hailing industry, discusses whether ride-hailing platforms require strict regulation under the current Internet setting, and provides evidence for this problem from the perspective of evolutionary game theory between the behavior of the government and the platforms. This study argues that both ride-hailing platforms and the government are evolutionary game players with bounded rationality, constantly adjusting their strategies through confrontation, dependence, and restriction. Therefore, this study constructs a two-dimensional game model between the government and ride-hailing platforms and analyzes the stability strategies of the two participants in different scenarios, to clarify the game behavior and the game return matrix. Assuming that loose government regulation and the standard operation of the ride-hailing platforms are the optimal Pareto equilibrium of the game system, the study concludes that this optimal equilibrium cannot be achieved under the current conditions. Through parameter analysis and sample simulation calculations, the system can be directed toward this equilibrium by reducing government supervision cost and increasing government punishment. This provides a theoretical basis for the government to regulate the ride-hailing industry from the perspective of quantitative analysis. Related implications are finally proposed, which can help the decision-makers better understand the regulation countermeasures of the government and ride-hailing platforms.
A Pathway Analysis Based on Genome-Wide DNA Methylation of Chinese Patients with Graves’ Orbitopathy
Authors: Xin Zhong , Hua Lin , Yang Yi-Lin , Shi Ting-Ting , Liu Wei , Tuo Xiu , Li Yu , Cao Xi , Yang Fang-Yuan
Published: January 2019

Background. The pathogenesis Graves’ Orbitopathy (GO) is not yet fully understood. Here, we conducted a pathway analysis based on genome-wide DNA methylation data of Chinese GO patients to explore GO-related pathways and potential feature genes. Methods. Six GO patients and 6 age-matched control individuals were recruited, and a genome-scale screen of DNA methylation was measured using their peripheral blood sample. After extracting the differentially methylated regions (DMRs), we classified DMRs into three clusters with respect to median absolute deviation (MAD) for GO and control group, respectively. Then the extract tests were performed to identify significant pathways by comparing the counts of genes in each cluster between GO and control group in a pathway. For each significant pathway, we calculated the Methylation-based Inference of Regulatory Activity (MIRA) score to infer the regulatory activity of genes involved in the pathway. Furthermore, we took the significant pathways as the subsets and applied Random forests (RF) method to extract GO-related feature genes. Results. We identified four potential significant pathways associated with the occurrence and development of GO disease. There were Toxoplasmosis, Axon guidance, Focal adhesion, and Proteoglycans in cancer (p<0.001 or p=0.007). The identified genes involved in the significant pathways, such as LDLR (p=0.019), CDK5 (p=0.036), and PIK3CB (p=0.020), were found to be correlated with GO phenotype. Conclusion. Our study suggested pathway analyses can help understand the potential relationships between the DNA methylation level of some certain genes and their regulation in Chinese GO patients.
Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis of Hub Genes and Pathways in Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinomas
Authors: Gao Xueren , Wang Jianguo , Zhang Shulong
Published: January 2019

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is a very rare malignancy; the pathogenesis of which is still not fully understood. The aim of the present study was to identify hub genes and pathways in ATC by microarray expression profiling. Two independent datasets (GSE27155 and GSE53072) were downloaded from GEO database. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between ATC tissues and normal thyroid tissues were screened out by the limma package and then enriched by gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analysis. The hub genes were selected by protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis. A total of 141 common upregulated and 87 common downregulated genes were screened out. These DEGs were significantly enriched in the phagosome and NF-kappa B signaling pathway. Through PPI analysis, TOP2A, TYMS, CCNB1, RACGAP1, FEN1, PRC1, and UBE2C were selected as hub genes, which were highly expressed in ATC tissues. TCGA data suggested that the expression levels of TOP2A, TYMS, FEN1, and PRC1 genes were also upregulated in other histological subtypes of thyroid carcinoma. High expression of TOP2A, TYMS, FEN1, PRC1, or UBE2C gene significantly decreased disease-free survival of patients with other thyroid carcinomas. In conclusion, the present study identified several hub genes and pathways, which will contribute to elucidating the pathogenesis of ATC and providing therapeutic targets for ATC.
Immunomodulatory Functions of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Li Haojiang , Shen Shi , Fu Haitao , Wang Zhenyong , Li Xu , Sui Xiang , Yuan Mei , Liu Shuyun , Wang Guiqin , Guo Quanyi
Published: January 2019

The inflammatory response to chronic injury affects tissue regeneration and has become an important factor influencing the prognosis of patients. In previous stem cell treatments, it was revealed that stem cells not only have the ability for direct differentiation or regeneration in chronic tissue damage but also have a regulatory effect on the immune microenvironment. Stem cells can regulate the immune microenvironment during tissue repair and provide a good “soil” for tissue regeneration. In the current study, the regulation of immune cells by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the local tissue microenvironment and the tissue damage repair mechanisms are revealed. The application of the concepts of “seed” and “soil” has opened up new research avenues for regenerative medicine. Tissue engineering (TE) technology has been used in multiple tissues and organs using its biomimetic and cellular cell abilities, and scaffolds are now seen as an important part of building seed cell microenvironments. The effect of tissue engineering techniques on stem cell immune regulation is related to the shape and structure of the scaffold, the preinflammatory microenvironment constructed by the implanted scaffold, and the material selection of the scaffold. In the application of scaffold, stem cell technology has important applications in cartilage, bone, heart, and liver and other research fields. In this review, we separately explore the mechanism of MSCs in different tissue and organs through immunoregulation for tissue regeneration and MSC combined with 3D scaffolds to promote MSC immunoregulation to repair damaged tissues.
Snake-Eyes Appearance on MRI Occurs during the Late Stage of Hirayama Disease and Indicates Poor Prognosis
Authors: Xu Haocheng , Shao Minghao , Zhang Fan , Nie Cong , Wang Hongli , Zhu Wei , Xia Xinlei , Ma Xiaosheng , Lu Feizhou , Jiang Jianyuan
Published: January 2019

Purpose. Because Hirayama disease is stereotyped as a self-limited disease in the absence of a definite pathology, we investigated the potential relationship between snake-eyes appearance (SEA) and Hirayama disease to bring a new perspective in the pathological process of Hirayama disease based on relevant radiological and clinical evidence. Methods. A total of 30 cases observed SEA were selected from 293 patients with Hirayama disease to constitute the SEA group, and an equal number of cases were randomly selected from the remaining patients to form the non-SEA group. Cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed and subsequently used to measure the anteroposterior diameter and anterior shifting of the spinal cord. Additionally, clinical data, such as age, sex, duration of symptoms, symptoms, and signs, were collected and analyzed. Results. Of 293 patients, 10.6% appeared with the SEA, which was mainly multisegmental (86.7%), particularly at the C5-6 segment (73.3%), and intense with a well-defined border (70.0%). The SEA group was an older population (p < 0.0001) with a longer duration (p < 0.0001) and a higher incidence of Hoffmann signs and knee hyperreflexia (p < 0.0001, p = 0.0038, respectively). The degree of spinal cord atrophy demonstrated a close association with the SEA, as it was significantly worse in the SEA group and SEA segment (p = 0.0008, p < 0.0001, respectively). The degree of spinal cord atrophy was positively related to both age and duration (p = 0.0095, p = 0.0176, respectively). Conclusions. Confirmed as an irreversible lesion and an indication of poor prognosis, SEA appears during the late stage of Hirayama disease and is closely related to pyramidal signs and spinal cord atrophy.
Pattern of Dermatological Disease Encountered in a Hematology Ward: A Retrospective Analysis of Dermatology Consultation in a Hematology Ward in a Tertiary Care Center in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alasmari Amal Aboud , Hakeem Anadel Hassan , Bin Saleh Fatemah Saleh , Alsaigh Shahad Yousef , Al Ajroush Waleed , Layqah Laila Ali , Baharoon Salim Alawi
Published: January 2019

Introduction. Skin manifestations are common in hematology ward patients and can result from infection, malignancy, or chemotherapy. The purpose of this study was to identify the most common dermatological problems encountered in the adult hematology ward at King Abdullah Specialist Children Hospital (KASCH). Methods. This was retrospective chart review of 78 dermatology consultations based on electronic health records for all inpatients in hematology wards at KASCH between January 2016 and December 2017. Data were presented as mean ± SD for continuous variables. Results. During the study period, a total of 1391 inpatients were referred to the dermatology department. A total of 403 (29.0%) referrals were from the internal medicine department and 78 (5.6%) were from the hematology department, six of which were rejected by the dermatology department. Almost all requests for referral were managed on the same or the next day with only two requests after 3 days. There were more female (n = 40; 51.3%) than male patients (n = 38; 48.7%) and the average age ± SD was 40.7 ± 19.8 years. Patients were diagnosed with a diverse range of hematological diseases. A total of 27 (35.1%) patients were diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. Overall, 98 differential diagnoses were made by dermatologists with only 26 being confirmed by skin biopsy. Eight (30.8%) patients were diagnosed with graft versus host disease confirmed by skin biopsy. The diagnoses were changed in 12 cases after skin biopsy. Several types of dermatitis were diagnosed in hematology ward patients including stasis dermatitis and contact dermatitis. The source of infection was not specified in most cases and the infection was treated empirically. Conclusion. Various dermatological disorders and cutaneous manifestations are observed in hematology inpatients with morbilliform drug eruption and graft versus host disease being the most common.
Development of Strength for Calcium Aluminate Cement Mortars Blended with GGBS
Authors: Yang Hee Jun , Ann Ki Yong , Jung Min Sun
Published: January 2019

In the present study, the development of strength in different calcium aluminate cement (CAC) mixture mortars with granulated ground blast-furnace slag (GGBS) was investigated. The substitution of GGBS levels was 0, 20, 40, and 60% weight of binder, of which the CAC used in this study naturally contained C2AS clinker as a secondary phase. To activate a hydraulic nature of the phase, in addition to the mineral additive, all specimens were cured at 35 ± 2°C for the first 24 hours and then stored in a 95% humidity chamber at 25 ± 2°C. The penetration resistance of fresh mortar was measured immediately after pouring, and the mortar compressive strength was monitored for 365 days. Simultaneously, to evaluate the hydration kinetics at early ages, in terms of heat evolution, the calorimetric analysis was performed at the isothermal condition (35°C) for 24 hours. The hydration behavior in the long term was characterized by X-ray diffraction, which was supported by microscopic observation using scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy. Furthermore, an examination of the pore structure was accompanied to quantify the porosity. As a result, it was found that an increase in the GGBS content in the mixture resulted in an increased setting time, as well as total heat evolved for 24 hours in normalized calorimetry curves. In addition, the strength development of mortar showed a continuous increased value up to 365 days, accounting 43.8–57.5 MPa for the mixtures, due to a formation of stratlingite, which was identified at the pastes cured for 365 days using chemical and microscopic analysis. However, GGBS replacement did not affect on the pore size distribution in the cement matrix, except for total intrusion volume.
Validation of Melanoma Immune Profile (MIP), a Prognostic Immune Gene Prediction Score for Stage II–III Melanoma
Authors: Gartrell Robyn D. , Marks Douglas K. , Rizk Emanuelle M. , Bogardus Margaret , Gérard Camille L. , Barker Luke W. , Fu Yichun , Esancy Camden L. , Li Gen , Ji Jiayi , Rui Shumin , Ernstoff Marc S. , Taback Bret , Pabla Sarabjot , Chang Rui , Lee Sandra J. , Krolewski John J. , Morrison Carl , Horst Basil A. , Saenger Yvonne M.
Published: January 2019

Purpose:

Biomarkers are needed to stratify patients with stage II–III melanoma for clinical trials of adjuvant therapy because, while immunotherapy is protective, it also confers the risk of severe toxicity. We previously defined and validated a 53-immune gene melanoma immune profile (MIP) predictive both of distant metastatic recurrence and of disease-specific survival (DSS). Here, we test MIP on a third independent population.

Experimental Design:

A retrospective cohort of 78 patients with stage II–III primary melanoma was analyzed using the NanoString assay to measure expression of 53 target genes, and MIP score was calculated. Statistical analysis correlating MIP with DSS, overall survival, distant metastatic recurrence, and distant metastasis-free interval was performed using ROC curves, Kaplan–Meier curves, and standard univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models.

Results:

MIP significantly distinguished patients with distant metastatic recurrence from those without distant metastatic recurrence using ROC curve analysis (AUC = 0.695; P = 0.008). We defined high- and low-risk groups based on the cutoff defined by this ROC curve and find that MIP correlates with both DSS and overall survival by ROC curve analysis (AUC = 0.719; P = 0.004 and AUC = 0.698; P = 0.004, respectively). Univariable Cox regression reveals that a high-risk MIP score correlates with DSS (P = 0.015; HR = 3.2).

Conclusions:

MIP identifies patients with low risk of death from melanoma and may constitute a clinical tool to stratify patients with stage II–III melanoma for enrollment in clinical trials.
Low Renal Oxygen Saturation at Near-Infrared Spectroscopy on the First Day of Life Is Associated with Developing Acute Kidney Injury in Very Preterm Infants
Authors: Bonsante Francesco , Ramful Duksha , Binquet Christine , Samperiz Sylvain , Daniel Sandrine , Gouyon Jean-Bernard , Iacobelli Silvia
Published: January 2019

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent complication in preterm infants, and the identification of early markers of renal hypoperfusion is a chief challenge in neonatal intensive care units. Objectives: To describe the association between early markers of cardiovascular function and renal perfusion with AKI occurrence in a cohort of preterm infants < 32 weeks’ gestation. Methods: 128 infants were prospectively included from birth to discharge. During the first day of life, we assessed cardiovascular function, systemic and organ blood flow by Doppler ultrasound, and monitored cerebral and renal regional oxygen saturation (rSO2) using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). These measures were analyzed in relation to developing AKI and serum creatinine (SCr) peak from day 2 to 7 of life. Results: 12 of 128 infants presented with AKI (9.4%). SCr peak was 155.3 ± 30.2 µmol/L in infants with AKI versus 82.0 ± 16.5 in non-AKI infants (p < 0.001). Among all measures of cardiovascular function and renal perfusion, low mean cerebral and renal rSO2 during the first day of life and a low resistive index at renal artery Doppler were significantly associated with developing AKI. After adjustment for possible confounding factors, low renal rSO2 on the first day of life remained associated with a high SCr peak from day 2 to 7 of life. Conclusion: Low renal rSO2 values during the first day of life correlate with developing AKI in preterm infants < 32 weeks’ gestation. NIRS monitoring of renal function during adaptation seems promising, and its very early use after birth to detect kidney hemodynamic dysfunction deserves further investigations.
Milk Curd Obstruction in Human Milk-Fed Preterm Infants
Authors: Longardt Ann Carolin  , Loui Andrea , Bührer Christoph , Berns Monika
Published: January 2019

Background: Milk curd obstruction as a cause of intestinal obstruction has been known since 1959, but has nearly disappeared. However, in recent years it has experienced a revival in small premature infants. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical characteristics of milk curd obstruction (lactobezoar) in preterm infants. Methods: Data of preterm infants with milk curd obstruction cared for at a large tertiary neonatal intensive care unit between 2012 and 2016 were retrieved from the electronic registry and paper records. Results: A total of 10 infants (2 girls, 8 boys) were identified: the median birth weight was 595 g (range 270–922), gestational age was 24.4 weeks (23.4–27.0), weight-for-gestational age percentile was 16 (0–62), and age at diagnosis was 28 days (16–64). Five infants (50%) were small for gestational age. All neonates had received fortified human milk (added protein 2.0 g/100 mL, range 0–2.8; added calcium 2,400 µmol/100 mL, range 0–6 844; added phosphate 2,400 µmol/100 mL, range 0–5,178). Seven neonates underwent surgery, and 2 infants died. Hyperechoic masses in extended bowel loops, visualised by abdominal ultrasound, and pale/acholic faeces were hallmarks of milk curd obstruction. Conclusions: In this study, milk curd obstruction occurred exclusively in infants with a birth weight < 1,000 g (2.2%) and < 28 weeks’ gestational age (2.4%). Male and small for gestational age infants appeared to be at increased risk. Paying attention to the colour of the faeces of infants at risk might help to diagnose milk curd obstruction at an early stage.
Intra-Plaque Vessels on Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound Sonography Predict Carotid Plaque Histology
Authors: Amamoto Takaaki , Sakata Noriyuki , Ogata Toshiyasu , Shimada Hirofumi , Inoue Tooru
Published: January 2019

Background and Purpose: Although the echogenicity of carotid plaques on carotid enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) was reported to correlate with the historological density of intra-plaque neovessels, it is unclear whether the intra-plaque vessel size is associated with carotid plaque vulnerability. We evaluated the relationship of size of intra-plaque vessels on CEUS with carotid plaque histology. Methods: We prospectively registered patients with carotid stenosis who were hospitalized to receive carotid endarterectomy between 2012 and 2016. CEUS was performed by ultrasound specialists using a 7-MHz linear transducer (GE LOGIQ7; GE Healthcare, Milwaukee, WN, USA). Sonazoid® was used for conducting CEUS. The sizes of microbubbles inside the plaques were scored at 0, 1, 3, and 5 min after the injection of contrast agent, and were categorized according to our defined vascular score (Vas-S; 0: the effect of contrast was not recognized; 1: the microbubbles were visible, but so blurred and vague that their shape could not be recognized; 2: dot or string-like microbubbles with movement, localized in part or the whole site of the plaque). At histological examination, we simplified the modified American Heart Association classification and defined as an atherosclerotic category (Ath-cat; 1: unruptured plaque; 2: ruptured plaque; 3: healed plaque). We then assessed the correlation of Vas-S with Ath-cat, which describes the process of rupture and restoration of carotid plaques. Results: A total of 97 patients were included in this study. A higher Ath-cat was significantly associated with higher Vas-S at any time. Spearman signed-rank test indicated that Vas-S at 1 min was most strongly correlated with Ath-cat (ρ = 0.43, p = 0.001). Receiver operating curve analysis indicated that a Vas-S of 0 at 1 min was significantly associated with an unruptured plaque (area under curve [AUC] 0.72, p = 0.006), while a Vas-S of 2 at 1 min was significantly associated with a healed plaque (AUC 0.72, p = 0.001). Conclusion: Vas-S values of 0 and 2 at 1 min indicated unruptured and healed plaques respectively. Thus, a Vas-S of 1 at 1 min is an indicator of a ruptured plaque. The intra-plaque vessel size on CEUS was significantly associated with carotid plaque histology, and may predict the process of plaque rupture and restoration.
The Relationship between Blood Pressure Variability, Recanalization Degree, and Clinical Outcome in Large Vessel Occlusive Stroke after an Intra-Arterial Thrombectomy
Authors: Chang Jun Young , Jeon Sang Beom , Lee Jung Hwa , Kwon O-Ki , Han Moon-Ku
Published: January 2019

Background: Blood pressure variability (BPV) is associated with target organ damage progression and increased cardiovascular events, including stroke. The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between short-term BPV during acute periods and recanalization degree, early neurological deterioration (END) occurrence, and functional outcomes in acute ischemic stroke patients who had undergone intra-arterial thrombectomy (IAT). Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 303 patients with large vessel occlusive stroke who underwent IAT. The following BPV parameters, measured over 24 and 48 h after IAT, were compared: the mean, SD, coefficient of variation (CV), variation independent of the mean (VIM) for both the systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP, and the proportion of nocturnal SBP risers. Results: BPV parameters decreased with higher recanalization degree. The mean SBP (SBPmean) over 24 and 48 h after IAT, and the SD of SBP (SBPSD), CV of SBP (SBPCV), and VIM of SBP (SBPVIM) during the 48 h following the procedure had significant associations with recanalization degree. Patients with END had higher BPV than that of those without END, and the difference was more evident for incomplete recanalization. Increased BPV was associated with a shift toward poor functional outcome at 3 months after adjustment, including recanalization degree (OR range for significant parameters, 1.26–1.64, p = 0.006 for 48 h SBPmean, p = 0.003 for 48 h SBPCV, otherwise p < 0.002). Conclusions: Short-term BPV over 24 and 48 h after IAT in acute ischemic stroke patients was related to recanalization degree, and END occurrence, and may be an independent predictor of clinical outcome.