bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of a Novel Triple Band Monopole Antenna for WLAN/WiMAX MIMO Applications in the Laptop Computer
Authors: Kulkarni Jayshri , Seenivasan Raju , Abhaikumar V. , Subburaj Deepak Ram Prasath
Published: June 2019

This paper presents a triple band monopole antenna design with an overall size of 21  ×  8  mm2 for WLAN/WiMAX Multiple Input and Multiple Output (MIMO) applications in the laptop computer. It comprises of three monopole radiating elements, along with two rectangular open-ended tuning stubs. This structure excites 2.4/5.2/5.8 GHz WLAN and 2.3/3.3/5.5 GHz WiMAX bands. The prototype testing of proposed antenna array formed by using the same antenna design shows that, it has measured -10dB impedance bandwidth of 11.86% (2.22-2.50 GHz) in a lower band (fl), 5% (3.25-3.42 GHz) in medium band (fm) and 16.84% (5.00-5.92 GHz) in upper band (fu). The measured gain and radiation efficiency are well above 3.65 dBi and 75%, respectively, throughout the operating bands. Also, the measured isolation between two antennas is better than -20dB and envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) is less than 0.004 across the three bands of interest. This confirms the applicability of the proposed antenna array for MIMO applications in the laptop computer.
Leaner Women with Impaired Insulin Secretion Accounts for about 40% of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Japan
Authors: Furukawa Seishi , Kobayashi Yoichi
Published: June 2019

Aim. To identify the involvement of leanness and impaired insulin secretion with Japanese gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Method. A cross-sectional study was conducted comprising 219 at-risk pregnant women who underwent a 75g glucose tolerance test at a single institute in Tokyo, Japan. We identified GDM and normal glucose tolerance (NGT). The cut-off value of the homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) for detecting GDM was determined. The GDM group was divided into subgroups according to insulin resistance based on the cut-off value of HOMA-IR. We compared the prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and homeostasis model assessment of β-cell function (HOMA-β) between the group comprising low insulin resistance (LIR) and the group comprising high insulin resistance (HIR). Results. Seventy GDM cases and 149 NGT cases were identified. By using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the HOMA-IR cut-off value was determined to be 1.41. Twenty-five GDM cases (36%) were classified as LIR and forty-five GDM cases (64%) were classified as HIR. The background including indications for having 75gOGTT and the gestational age having 75gOGTT did not differ between groups. The BMI of the LIR group was significantly lower than that of the HIR group (20.9±2.8 vs. 24.4 ± 5.5, p<0.01), and the HOMA-β of the LIR group was significantly lower than that of the HIR group (95.5±30.3 vs. 146.0±70.1, p<0.01). A positive linear correlation was found between BMI and HOMA-β in cases of GDM (r=0.27, p=0.02). Conclusion. Leanness with impaired insulin secretion is deeply involved in Japanese gestational diabetes mellitus.
Biomarkers of Inflammation in Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction
Authors: Mocan Mihaela , Mocan Hognogi Larisa Diana , Anton Florin Petru , Chiorescu Roxana Mihaela , Goidescu Cerasela Mihaela , Stoia Mirela Anca , Farcas Anca Daniela
Published: June 2019

Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) is an important precursor to many different cardiovascular diseases. Diastolic abnormalities have been studied extensively in the past decade, and it has been confirmed that one of the mechanisms leading to heart failure is a chronic, low-grade inflammatory reaction. The triggers are classical cardiovascular risk factors, grouped under the name of metabolic syndrome (MetS), or other systemic diseases that have an inflammatory substrate such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The triggers could induce myocardial apoptosis and reduce ventricular wall compliance through the release of cytokines by multiple pathways such as (1) immune reaction, (2) prolonged cell hypoxemia, or (3) excessive activation of neuroendocrine and autonomic nerve function disorder. The systemic proinflammatory state causes coronary microvascular endothelial inflammation which reduces nitric oxide bioavailability, cyclic guanosine monophosphate content, and protein kinase G (PKG) activity in adjacent cardiomyocytes favoring hypertrophy development and increases resting tension. So far, it has been found that inflammatory cytokines associated with the heart failure mechanism include TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, TGF-β, and IFN-γ. Some of them could be used as diagnosis biomarkers. The present review aims at discussing the inflammatory mechanisms behind diastolic dysfunction and their triggering conditions, cytokines, and possible future inflammatory biomarkers useful for diagnosis.
Panax Notoginseng Saponins Ameliorate Aβ-Mediated Neurotoxicity in C. elegans through Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Zhou Ling , Huang Pan-Pan , Chen Lin-Lin , Wang Ping
Published: June 2019

The deposition of amyloid beta (Aβ) is the main hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and there is no effective drug to cure the progressive cognitive loss or memory deficits caused by the aggregative toxicity of Aβ protein. Oxidative stress has been hypothesized to play a role in progressive neurodegenerative diseases like AD. Panax notoginseng saponin (PNS) from the rhizome of “pseudo-ginseng” exhibits potent antioxidant effects on aging process in neuron cells and animals. By using C. elegans as an ideal model organism, the present study shows that PNS (0.5–4 mg/mL) can significantly inhibit AD-like symptoms of worm paralysis and enhance resistance to oxidative stress induced by paraquat and aging conditions. Additionally, PNS extends lifespan and maintains healthspan of C. elegans by improving the swimming prowess and fertility at old age. It markedly activates the expression of SKN-1 mRNA, which further supports SKN-1 signaling pathway which is involved in the therapeutic effect of PNS on AD C. elegans. Our results provide direct evidence on PNS for treating AD on gene level and theoretical foundation for reshaping medicinal products of PNS in the future.
Determinants of Men’s Involvement in Maternity Care in Dodoma Region, Central Tanzania
Authors: Gibore Nyasiro S. , Ezekiel Mangi J. , Meremo Alfred , Munyogwa Mariam J. , Kibusi Stephen M.
Published: June 2019

Background. Men’s involvement in maternity care is recognized as a key strategy in improving maternal health and accelerating reduction of maternal mortality. This study investigated the factors determining men’s involvement in maternity care in Dodoma Region, Central Tanzania. Methods. This cross-sectional survey used multistage sampling in four districts of Dodoma Region to select 966 married men participants aged 18 years and above. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out in SPSS version 21.0 to measure the determinants of men’s involvement in maternity care. Results. The study found that only 1 in 5 men were involved in maternity care of their partners. Factors found to determine men’s involvement in maternity care were having >4 children (AOR=1.658, 95%CI=1.134 to 2.422), urban area of residence (AOR=0.510, 95%CI=0.354 to 0.735), waiting time >1 hour at the health care facility (AOR=0.685, 95%CI=0.479 to 0.978), limited access to information (AOR=0.491, 95%CI=0.322 to 0.747), and limited spousal communication (AOR=0.3, 95%CI=0.155 to 0.327). Conclusions. Long waiting time to receive the service and limited access to information regarding men’s involvement are associated with low men's involvement in maternity care. Male friendly maternity care should recognize men's preferences on timely access to services and provide them with relevant information on their roles in maternity care. Spousal communication is important; mothers must be empowered with relevant information to communicate to their male partners regarding fertility preferences and maternity care in general.
Applying Graph Theory to Some Problems of Economic Dynamics
Authors: Hamidov S. I.
Published: June 2019

This paper studies dynamic models of production and exchange on graph with consideration of transportation costs. Using graph and set of matrices, we introduce superlinear multivalued mappings which describe the exchange ratio in considered system. Effective trajectories of these models are studied. It is shown that trajectories can be constructed using the simplest equilibrium type mechanisms. Characteristics of effective trajectories in Neumann type models are given. Conditions for the existence of equilibrium state of the considered model are found.
Cervical Human Papillomavirus Prevalence, Genotypes, and Associated Risk Factors among Female Sex Workers in Greater Accra, Ghana
Authors: Adams Abdul Rashid , Nortey Priscillia Awo , Dortey Benjamin Ansah , Asmah Richard Harry , Wiredu Edwin Kwame
Published: June 2019

Cervical cancer is a largely preventable disease mediated by persistent infection with high-risk Human Papillomaviruses (Hr-HPV). There are now three approved vaccines against the most common HPV genotypes. In Ghana, mortality due to cervical cancer is on the rise, due to the absence of an organized and effective cervical cancer prevention and control program. Data on circulating HPV genotypes is important for studying the likely impact of mass introduction of HPV vaccination of the female population before sexual debut. High HPV prevalence has been reported in Female Sex Workers (FSWs), who constitute an important active group for maintenance of HPV in the population. This study was conducted to determine the size of HPV prevalence in this group and to provide information for future assessment of the impact of vaccine introduction in the country. We conducted a cross-sectional study where the snowballing technique was used to identify and select FSW’s ≥18 years, operating within suburbs of Greater Accra Region (GAR). A risk factor assessment interview was conducted and cervical swabs were collected for HPV-DNA detection and genotyping by Nested Multiplex PCR. Hundred participants, age ranging from 18 to 45 years, median 24 years, were studied. The prevalence of Cervical HPV was 26%. Eleven genotypes were detected comprising 9 high-risk in order of decreasing prevalence HPV-16 (8%), HPV-35 (5%), HPV-33/39/-68 (3%), HPV-52/51/59 (2%) and HPV-18 (1%) and 2 Low-risk types, HPV-42(3%), and HPV-43 (1%). Three women had HPV types that could not be genotyped by our method. Oral contraceptives use was associated with a reduced chance of HPV infection (P=0.002; OR=0.19, 95% CI 0.07-0.54). This study found a high HPV prevalence among FSWs in the GAR. A high number of Hr-HPV genotypes seen are vaccine preventable, providing additional compelling argument for implementing a national cervical cancer prevention plan including vaccination.
Anoikis Resistance as a Further Trait of Acidic-Adapted Melanoma Cells
Authors: Peppicelli Silvia , Ruzzolini Jessica , Bianchini Francesca , Andreucci Elena , Nediani Chiara , Laurenzana Anna , Margheri Francesca , Fibbi Gabriella , Calorini Lido
Published: June 2019

Melanoma is characterized by a low extracellular pH, which contributes to the development of an aggressive phenotype characterized by several properties as the switch to an epithelial-to-mesenchymal program, the increase of apoptotic resistance, and the migratory ability together with the development of drug resistance. Here, we demonstrate that melanoma cells grown in low pH medium (pH 6.7) for a short (24 hours) or long (at least 3 months) period equally express an anoikis resistance profile. Anoikis is a form of apoptosis prompted by loss of adhesion, particularly requested by aggressive cancer cells to metastasize. Anoikis resistance was ascertained in acidic melanoma cells either grown in agarose-coated plates or incubated in rocking conditions. Both analyses indicate that acidic cells were more able to survive in a nonadherent condition than cells grown in standard pH, an effect resulting in a more cloning efficiency and migratory ability. Ability to survive during rocking was inhibited using mTOR/NF-kB inhibitors. Finally, we checked whether characteristics related to thein vitroanoikis resistance acquired by acidic melanoma cells might be also suitable forin vivochallenge. We injected acidic melanoma cells into blood stream, and then we verify how many cells survived in blood after 15 min from the injection. Only acidic cells, transient and chronic, survived, whereas melanoma cells grown in standard pH medium did not. Overall, we have had the opportunity to demonstrate that low extracellular pH represents an additional mechanism able to promote an anoikis resistance in solid tumors.
A Smoothed l0-Norm and l1-Norm Regularization Algorithm for Computed Tomography
Authors: Zhu Jiehua , Li Xiezhang
Published: June 2019

The nonmonotone alternating direction algorithm (NADA) was recently proposed for effectively solving a class of equality-constrained nonsmooth optimization problems and applied to the total variation minimization in image reconstruction, but the reconstructed images suffer from the artifacts. Though by the l0-norm regularization the edge can be effectively retained, the problem is NP hard. The smoothed l0-norm approximates the l0-norm as a limit of smooth convex functions and provides a smooth measure of sparsity in applications. The smoothed l0-norm regularization has been an attractive research topic in sparse image and signal recovery. In this paper, we present a combined smoothed l0-norm and l1-norm regularization algorithm using the NADA for image reconstruction in computed tomography. We resolve the computation challenge resulting from the smoothed l0-norm minimization. The numerical experiments demonstrate that the proposed algorithm improves the quality of the reconstructed images with the same cost of CPU time and reduces the computation time significantly while maintaining the same image quality compared with the l1-norm regularization in absence of the smoothed l0-norm.
On Ev-Degree and Ve-Degree Topological Properties of Tickysim Spiking Neural Network
Authors: Cancan Murat
Published: June 2019

Topological indices are indispensable tools for analyzing networks to understand the underlying topology of these networks. Spiking neural network architecture (SpiNNaker or TSNN) is a million-core calculating engine which aims at simulating the behavior of aggregates of up to a billion neurons in real time. Tickysim is a timing-based simulator of the interchip interconnection network of the SpiNNaker architecture. Tickysim spiking neural network is considered to be highly symmetrical network classes. Classical degree-based topological properties of Tickysim spiking neural network have been recently determined. Ev-degree and ve-degree concepts are two novel degrees recently defined in graph theory. Ev-degree and ve-degree topological indices have been defined as parallel to their corresponding counterparts. In this study, we investigate the ev-degree and ve-degree topological properties of Tickysim spiking neural network. These calculations give the information about the underlying topology of Tickysim spiking neural network.
Influence of Hypoxic Preservation Temperature on Endothelial Cells and Kidney Integrity
Authors: Giraud Sébastien , Steichen Clara , Couturier Pierre , Tillet Solenne , Mallet Vanessa , Coudroy Rémi , Goujon Jean-Michel , Hannaert Patrick , Hauet Thierry
Published: June 2019

Ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury is unavoidable during organ transplantation and impacts graft quality. New paradigms are emerging including preservation at higher temperature than “hypothermia” or “cold”: although 4°C remains largely used for kidney preservation, recent studies challenged this choice. We and others hypothesized that a higher preservation temperature, closer to physiological regimen, could improve organ quality. For this purpose, we used an in vitro model of endothelial cells exposed to hypoxia-reoxygenation sequence (mimicking IR) and an ex vivo ischemic pig kidneys static storage model. In vitro, 19°C, 27°C, and 32°C provided protection against injuries versus 4°C, by reducing cell death, mitochondrial dysfunction, leukocyte adhesion, and inflammation. However, ex vivo, the benefits of 19°C or 32°C were limited, showing similar levels of tissue preservation damage. Ex vivo 4°C-preserved kidneys displayed a trend towards reduced damage, including apoptosis. Macrophage infiltration, tubulitis, and necrosis were increased in the 19°C and 32°C versus 4°C preserved kidneys. Thus, despite a trend for an advantage of subnormothermia as preservation temperature, our in vitro and ex vivo models bring different insights in terms of preservation temperature effect. This study suggests that temperature optimization for kidney preservation will require thorough investigation, combining the use of complementary relevant models and the design of elaborated preservation solution and new technologies.
A Cosmological Scenario from the Starobinsky Model within the f(R,T) Formalism
Authors: Moraes P. H. R. S. , Sahoo P. K. , Ribeiro G. , Correa R. A. C.
Published: June 2019

In this paper we derive a novel cosmological model from the f(R,T) theory of gravitation, for which R is the Ricci scalar and T is the trace of the energy-momentum tensor. We consider the functional form f(R,T)=f(R)+f(T), with f(R) being the Starobinsky Model, named R+αR2, and f(T)=2γT, with α and γ being constants. We show that a hybrid expansion law form for the scale factor is a solution for the derived Friedmann-like equations. In this way, the model is able to predict both the decelerated and the accelerated regimes of expansion of the universe, with the transition redshift between these stages being in accordance with recent observations. We also apply the energy conditions to our material content solutions. Such an application makes us able to obtain the range of acceptability for the free parameters of the model, named α and γ.
Fully Bayesian Estimation of Simultaneous Regression Quantiles under Asymmetric Laplace Distribution Specification
Authors: Merhi Bleik Josephine
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we are interested in estimating several quantiles simultaneously in a regression context via the Bayesian approach. Assuming that the error term has an asymmetric Laplace distribution and using the relation between two distinct quantiles of this distribution, we propose a simple fully Bayesian method that satisfies the noncrossing property of quantiles. For implementation, we use Metropolis-Hastings within Gibbs algorithm to sample unknown parameters from their full conditional distribution. The performance and the competitiveness of the underlying method with other alternatives are shown in simulated examples.
SIRT1 Modulators in Experimentally Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Farghali Hassan , Kemelo Mighty Kgalalelo , Canová Nikolina Kutinová
Published: June 2019

This article is directed at highlighting the involvement of the endogenous stress sensor SIRT1 (silent information regulator T1) as a possible factor involved in hepatoprotection. The selective SIRT1 modulators whether activators (STACs) or inhibitors are being tried experimentally and clinically. We discuss the modulation of SIRT1 on cytoprotection or even cytotoxicity in the liver chemically injured by hepatotoxic agents in rats, to shed light on the crosstalk between SIRT1 and its modulators. A combination of D-galactosamine and lipopolysaccharide (D-GalN/LPS) downregulated SIRT1 expression, while SIRT1 activators, SRT1720, resveratrol, and quercetin, upregulated SIRT1 and alleviated D-GalN/LPS-induced acute hepatotoxicity. Liver injury markers exhibited an inverse relationship with SIRT1 expression. However, under subchronic hepatotoxicity, quercetin decreased the significant increase in SIRT1 expression to lower levels which are still higher than normal ones and mitigated the liver-damaging effects of carbon tetrachloride. Each of these STACs was hepatoprotective and returned the conventional antioxidant enzymes to the baseline. Polyphenols tend to fine-tune SIRT1 expression towards normal in the liver of intoxicated rats in both acute and subchronic studies. Together, all these events give an impression that the cytoprotective effects of SIRT1 are exhibited within a definite range of expression. The catalytic activity of SIRT1 is important in the hepatoprotective effects of polyphenols where SIRT1 inhibitors block and the allosteric SIRT1 activators mimic the hepatoprotective effects of polyphenols. Our findings indicate that the pharmacologic modulation of SIRT1 could represent both an important move in alleviating hepatic insults and a future major step in the treatment of xenobiotic-induced hepatotoxicity.
Bandwidth Enhancement and Mutual Coupling Reduction Using a Notch and a Parasitic Structure in a UWB-MIMO Antenna
Authors: Ghimire Jiwan , Choi Kwang-Wook , Choi Dong-You
Published: June 2019

The correlation between the antennas of multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) systems in limited spaces and size degrades the performance and capacity by either using complex coupling or decoupling structures. For isolation improvement, this paper presents the simple design of a compact high-isolation ultra-wideband (UWB) MIMO antenna with a circular parasitic element at the back side of the radiating patch, thereby creating the reverse coupling and helping reduce the mutual coupling at the upper part of the frequency bands, and a small rectangular notch at the ground plane to extend the impedance bandwidth of the monopole antenna. This approach eliminates the use of complex coupling or decoupling structures and complex feeding networks. A novel feature of our design is that the MIMO antenna exhibits a very low envelope correlation coefficient (ECC < 0.007) with high diversity gain (DG > 9.99) and wide impedance bandwidth of 139 % from 3.1 to 17.5 GHz applicable for not only UWB application, but also next generation wireless communication, 5G. The high peak gain over the entire UWB and the upper part of the overall frequency band ensure that the antenna can be used in MIMO applications owing to the close agreement between the simulated and measured results.
Numerical Study of a Thermally Stressed State of a Rod
Authors: Kudaykulov Anarbay , Arinov Erkin , Ispulov Nurlybek , Qadir Abdul , Begaliyeva Kalamkas
Published: June 2019

This paper considers a new method based on the law of energy conservation for the study of thermo-stress-strain state of a rod of limited length with simultaneous presence of local heat fluxes, heat exchanges, and thermal insulation. The method allows determining the field of temperature distribution and the three components of deformations and stresses, as well as the magnitude of the rod elongation and the resulting axial force with an accuracy of satisfying the energy conservation laws. For specific initial data, all the sought-for ones are determined numerically with high accuracy. We found that all solutions satisfy the laws of energy conservation.
Conditional Fourier-Feynman Transforms with Drift on a Function Space
Authors: Cho Dong Hyun , Park Suk Bong
Published: June 2019

In this paper we derive change of scale formulas for conditional analytic Fourier-Feynman transforms and conditional convolution products of the functions which are the products of generalized cylinder functions and the functions in a Banach algebra which is the space of generalized Fourier transforms of the complex Borel measures on L2[0,T] using two simple formulas for conditional expectations with a drift on an analogue of Wiener space. Then we prove that the conditional transform of the conditional convolution product can be expressed by the product of the conditional transforms of each function. Finally we establish various changes of scale formulas for the conditional transforms and the conditional convolution products.
Replication of GWAS Loci Revealed an Increased Risk of BET1L and H19 Polymorphisms with Intracranial Aneurysm
Authors: Chen Yi , Sima Xiutian
Published: June 2019

A genome-wide association study (GWAS) identified that BET1L rs2280543 at chromosome 11p15.5 was a susceptibility loci of intracranial aneurysm (IA). Long noncoding RNA H19, located in this region, was reported to play a crucial role in the formation of IA. In this study, we aimed to examine whether BET1L rs2280543 and potentially functional polymorphisms in H19 influence the risk of IA. A hospital-based case-control study was performed involving 542 IA patients and 588 age- and gender-matched controls. The BET1L rs2280543 and H19 polymorphisms were genotyped using the TaqMan assay. The BET1L rs2280543 CT, CT/TT genotypes, and T allele were associated with an increased risk of IA (CT vs. CC, adjusted OR=1.43, 95% CI: 1.08-1.90, P=0.01; CT/TT vs. CC, adjusted OR=1.48, 95% CI: 1.12-1.94, P=0.005; and T vs. C, adjusted OR=1.44, 95% CI: 1.13-1.83, P=0.003). Similarly, the H19 rs217727 TT genotype and T allele were associated with an increased risk of IA (TT vs. CC, adjusted OR=1.90, 95% CI: 1.35-2.67, P<0.001; T vs. C, adjusted OR=1.38, 95% CI: 1.16-1.64, P<0.001). Combined analyses revealed that the rs2280543 CC-rs217727 CT/TT, rs2280543 CT/TT-rs2735971 GG, and rs217727 CT/TT-rs2735971 GG genotypes were related to the risk of IA. Interaction analysis showed that the 3-loci model of rs2280543-rs217727-rs2839698 contributed to an increased risk of IA. These findings suggest that the GWAS-discovered risk loci BET1L rs2280543 may increase IA susceptibility by interacting with lncRNA H19.
Associations of IDUA and PTCH1 with Bone Mineral Density, Bone Turnover Markers, and Fractures in Chinese Elderly Patients with Osteoporosis
Authors: Wang Qifei , Tang Chong , Jia Junxiu , Zhang Guangwu , Liu Zheng
Published: June 2019

Introduction. Osteoporosis (OP) is a common polygenic disorder in the aging population, and several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the alpha-L-iduronidase (IDUA) gene and patched homolog 1 (PTCH1) gene regulate bone metabolism and affect bone mass. The study aimed at investigating the relationships of rs3755955 and rs6831280 in the IDUA gene and rs28377268 in the PTCH1 gene with bone mineral density (BMD), bone turnover markers (BTMs), and fractures in the elderly Chinese subjects with OP. Materials and Methods. A cohort of 328 unrelated senile osteoporosis (SOP) patients with or without osteoporotic fractures was recruited. rs3755955, rs6831280, and rs28377268 polymorphisms were identified using SNaPshot technology. BTM levels were determined by electrochemiluminescence (ECL). Bone mineral densities (BMDs) at the lumbar spine (LS) and proximal femur sites were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) in all subjects. The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) test was performed. HWE P values and comparisons of genotype frequencies were estimated using the chi-square test. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) adjusted for confounding factors was performed to investigate associations of SNPs with BMDs and BTMs in subgroups. Results. The chi-square test indicated that genotype distributions in the control group conformed to HWE (P>0.05). The distributions of allele and genotype frequencies of rs6831280 between fracture and osteoporotic participants were significantly different (P-allele=0.002 and P-genotype=0.012, respectively). Concerning rs6831280, ANCOVA found BMDs at LS 2-4 (L2-4) and total hip (TH) among the study subjects suffering from SOP with GA genotype were lower than in those carrying GG or AA (P-L2-4=0.004 and P-TH=0.027, respectively). Conclusions. IDUA rs6831280 is associated with BMDs at L2-4 and TH in the elderly Chinese population with SOP and may serve as a marker for the genetic susceptibility to osteoporotic fractures.
Physicochemical Properties and Effect of Processing Methods on Mineral Composition and Antinutritional Factors of Improved Chickpea(Cicer arietinum L.)Varieties Grown in Ethiopia
Authors: Olika Ebisa , Abera Solomon , Fikre Asnake
Published: June 2019

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is an important pulse crop grown and consumed all over the world because it is a good source of carbohydrates and protein. However, presence of antinutritional components restricts its use by interfering with digestion of macronutrientsduring consumption.Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluatephysicochemicalproperties and effect of processing methods on antinutritional factors and mineral composition of improved chickpea varieties (Natoli of Desi and Arerti of Kabuli) grown in Ethiopia. The experiment was factorial with complete randomized design. The result indicated that physicochemical properties such as seed mass, seed density, hydration capacity, swelling capacity, unhydrated seeds, and cooking time of Arerti and Natoli chickpeas had 260.69 and 280.65 g/1000 seeds, 3.48 and 3.61g/ml, 1.07 and 1.03 g/g, 2.12 and 1.94ml/g, 1.64 and 14.75%, and 21.00 and 246.33 min, respectively. After processing, Zn, Fe, and Ca contents of improved chickpea varieties had 4.48 to 5.85mg/kg, 8.52 to 10.17mg/kg, and 536.56 to 1035mg/kg, respectively. The antinutritional factors, tannin and phytic acid, in the raw chickpeas were reduced to 25 to 82.25% and 5.89 to 57.35%, respectively. The results of the current study showed that Arerti of Kabuli variety showed low antinutritional factors and better physicochemical properties, specifically low cooking time, than Natoli of Desi variety. All processing methods were effective in reduction of antinutritional factors; however, boiling was found to be the best for reduction of antinutritional factors.
CXCL12 and Its Isoforms: Different Roles in Pancreatic Cancer?
Authors: Righetti Alessandra , Giulietti Matteo , Šabanović Berina , Occhipinti Giulia , Principato Giovanni , Piva Francesco
Published: June 2019

CXCL12 is a chemokine that acts through CXCR4 and ACKR3 receptors and plays a physiological role in embryogenesis and haematopoiesis. It has an important role also in tumor development, since it is released by stromal cells of tumor microenvironment and alters the behavior of cancer cells. Many studies investigated the roles of CXCL12 in order to understand if it has an anti- or protumor role. In particular, it seems to promote tumor invasion, proliferation, angiogenesis, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), and metastasis in pancreatic cancer. Nevertheless, some evidence shows opposite functions; therefore research on CXCL12 is still ongoing. These discrepancies could be due to the presence of at least six CXCL12 splicing isoforms, each with different roles. Interestingly, three out of six variants have the highest levels of expression in the pancreas. Here, we report the current knowledge about the functions of this chemokine and then focus on pancreatic cancer. Moreover, we discuss the methods applied in recent studies in order to understand if they took into account the existence of the CXCL12 isoforms.
Total Phenolic, Anthocyanin, Catechins, DPPH Radical Scavenging Activity, and Toxicity of Lepisanthes alata (Blume) Leenh
Authors: Anggraini Tuty , Wilma Syafni , Syukri Daimon , Azima Fauzan
Published: June 2019

Anthocyanins and catechin are natural antioxidants presented in many plants. Lepisanthes alata (Blume) Leenh is a plant with fruit that ripens to an intense red. This coloring suggests a high polyphenol content. However, limited information is available regarding the polyphenol or other antioxidant content in this fruit or its suitability as a food additive. The purpose of this research was to determine the total phenolic, total monomeric anthocyanin, catechin, epicatechin and epigallocatechin gallate content, DPPH radical scavenging activity, and toxicity in rind, flesh, seed, and whole fruit of L. alata. This research was conducted using an exploratory method with four analyses; samples from six parts of the plant were analyzed for polyphenols (rind, fruit pulp, seeds, whole fruit, bark, and leaves), four for anthocyanins (rind, fruit pulp, seeds, and whole fruit), and six parts of the plant for DPPH radical scavenging activity in water, methanol, and ethanol (rind, fruit pulp, seeds, whole fruit, bark, and leaves) and toxicity. This plant was found to contain high levels of polyphenol; the lowest level was measured in the flesh (0.64 mg GAE/g of DW) and the highest in the whole fruit (2.87 mg GAE/g of DW). The lowest anthocyanin content is found in the flesh and the highest in the rind with the respective average values of 672.27 mg/100 g FW and 1462.82 mg/100 g FW. Epicatechin is the major catechin in whole fruit and bark of L. alata. L. alata DPPH radical scavenging activity was in the range of 21.23 to 92.5% depending on the solvent, and the highest activity was recorded in bark in ethanol extract. No toxins were found in any part of the plant indicating that an extract from it could be safely used as a natural antioxidant supplement in processed foods to protect against free radicals.
MYC-Driven Small-Cell Lung Cancer is Metabolically Distinct and Vulnerable to Arginine Depletion
Authors: Chalishazar Milind D. , Wait Sarah J. , Huang Fang , Ireland Abbie S. , Mukhopadhyay Anandaroop , Lee Younjee , Schuman Sophia S. , Guthrie Matthew R. , Berrett Kristofer C. , Vahrenkamp Jeffery M. , Hu Zeping , Kudla Marek , Modzelewska Katarzyna , Wang Guoying , Ingolia Nicholas T. , Gertz Jason , Lum David H. , Cosulich Sabina C. , Bomalaski John S. , DeBerardinis Ralph J. , Oliver Trudy G.
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) has been treated clinically as a homogeneous disease, but recent discoveries suggest that SCLC is heterogeneous. Whether metabolic differences exist among SCLC subtypes is largely unexplored. In this study, we aimed to determine whether metabolic vulnerabilities exist between SCLC subtypes that can be therapeutically exploited.

Experimental Design:

We performed steady state metabolomics on tumors isolated from distinct genetically engineered mouse models (GEMM) representing the MYC- and MYCL-driven subtypes of SCLC. Using genetic and pharmacologic approaches, we validated our findings in chemo-naïve and -resistant human SCLC cell lines, multiple GEMMs, four human cell line xenografts, and four newly derived PDX models.

Results:

We discover that SCLC subtypes driven by different MYC family members have distinct metabolic profiles. MYC-driven SCLC preferentially depends on arginine-regulated pathways including polyamine biosynthesis and mTOR pathway activation. Chemo-resistant SCLC cells exhibit increased MYC expression and similar metabolic liabilities as chemo-naïve MYC-driven cells. Arginine depletion with pegylated arginine deiminase (ADI-PEG 20) dramatically suppresses tumor growth and promotes survival of mice specifically with MYC-driven tumors, including in GEMMs, human cell line xenografts, and a patient-derived xenograft from a relapsed patient. Finally, ADI-PEG 20 is significantly more effective than the standard-of-care chemotherapy.

Conclusions:

These data identify metabolic heterogeneity within SCLC and suggest arginine deprivation as a subtype-specific therapeutic vulnerability for MYC-driven SCLC.
Oncogenic NRG1 Fusions: A New Hope for Targeted Therapy in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Aguirre Andrew J.
Published: June 2019

Approximately 8%–10% of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cases are KRAS wild type. In a subset of these tumors, NRG1 gene fusions have been identified as targetable oncogenic drivers, a discovery that highlights the importance of deep molecular characterization for KRAS wild-type pancreatic cancers and provides a novel treatment strategy in this disease.

See related article by Jones et al., p. 4674
Prognostic and Biologic Relevance of Clinically Applicable Long Noncoding RNA Profiling in Older Patients with Cytogenetically Normal Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Papaioannou Dimitrios , Nicolet Deedra , Ozer Hatice G. , Mrózek Krzysztof , Volinia Stefano , Fadda Paolo , Carroll Andrew J. , Kohlschmidt Jessica , Kolitz Jonathan E. , Wang Eunice S. , Stone Richard M. , Byrd John C. , Garzon Ramiro , Bloomfield Clara D.
Published: June 2019

We have previously shown that expression levels of 48 long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) can generate a prognostic lncRNA score that independently associates with outcome of older patients with cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia (CN-AML). However, the techniques used to identify and measure prognostic lncRNAs (i.e., RNA sequencing and microarrays) are not tailored for clinical testing. Herein, we report on an assay (based on the nCounter platform) that is designed to produce targeted measurements of prognostic lncRNAs in a clinically applicable manner. We analyzed a new cohort of 76 older patients with CN-AML and found that the nCounter assay yielded reproducible measurements and that the lncRNA score retained its prognostic value; patients with high lncRNA scores had lower complete remission (CR) rates (P = 0.009; 58% vs. 87%), shorter disease-free (P = 0.05; 3-year rates: 0% vs. 21%), overall (OS; P = 0.02, 3-year rates: 10% vs. 29%), and event-free survival (EFS; P = 0.002, 3-year rates: 0% vs. 18%) than patients with low lncRNA scores. In multivariable analyses, the lncRNA score independently associated with CR rates (P = 0.02), OS (P = 0.02), and EFS (P = 0.02). To gain biological insights, we examined our initial cohort of 71 older patients with CN-AML, previously analyzed with RNA sequencing. Genes involved in immune response and B-cell receptor signaling were enriched in patients with high lncRNA scores. We conclude that clinically applicable lncRNA profiling is feasible and potentially useful for risk stratification of older patients with CN-AML. Furthermore, we identify potentially targetable molecular pathways that are active in the high-risk patients with high lncRNA scores.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Postoperative Antibiotics for Patients with a Complex Appendicitis
Authors: van den Boom Anne Loes , de Wijkerslooth Elisabeth M.L. , Wijnhoven Bas P.L.
Published: June 2019

Postoperative antibiotics are recommended after appendectomy for complex appendicitis to reduce infectious complications. The duration of this treatment varies considerably between and even within institutions. The aim of this review was to critically appraise studies on duration of antibiotic treatment following appendectomy for complex appendicitis. A systematic literature search according to the PRISMA guidelines was performed. Comparative studies evaluating different durations of postoperative antibiotic therapy. Primary endpoint was intra-abdominal abscess (IAA) after appendectomy. Secondary endpoints were surgical site infection, readmission and length of hospital stay. The quality of evidence was assessed with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) tool. Pooled event rates were calculated using a random-effects model. Nine studies reporting 2006 patients with complex appendicitis were included. The methodological quality of the included articles was poor. IAA was seen in 138 patients (8,6%). Meta-analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in IAA incidence between antibiotic treatment of ≤5 vs. >5 days (risk ratio (OR) 0.36 [95% CI 0.23–0.57] (p < 0.0001)) but not between ≤3 vs. >3 days (OR 0.81 [95% CI 0.38–1.74] (p = 0.59)). Descriptive statistics were used for secondary endpoints. The duration of postoperative antibiotic treatment is not associated with IAA following appendectomy for complex appendicitis.
Mediastinal Lymphoma Presenting in Cardiogenic Shock with Superior Vena Cava Syndrome in a Primigravida at Full Term: Salvage Resection after Prolonged Extracorporeal Life Support
Authors: Carro Sabrina E. , Essex David W. , Alsammak Mohamed , Bains Ashish , Toyoda Yoshiya , Keshavamurthy Suresh
Published: June 2019

Primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL) is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that typically has a good response rate to first line chemotherapy regimens. There have been reports of successful chemotherapy, but with a residual mass from fibrosis. Here, we report the case of a 19-year-old primigravida presenting with cardiogenic shock and superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome at full term who was found to have a PMBCL. Following delivery via urgent cesarean section, she was put on veno-arterial extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) and once hemodynamically stable was started on chemotherapy. In view of limited change in tumor size on consecutive CT scans and questionable response to chemotherapy, there were multidisciplinary meetings wherein withdrawing support was discussed and put forward to the family. At that point, surgical debulking was offered on compassionate grounds to be able to wean her off the VA-ECMO. This case report highlights the role of salvage resection when there are no other options.
Interruption or Discontinuation of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Treatment in Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia: A Retrospective Cohort Study (SPARKLE) in Belgium
Authors: Devos Timothy , Verhoef Gregor , Steel Eva , Mazure Dominiek , Lewalle Philippe , Bron Dominique , Berneman Zwi , Benghiat Fleur Samantha , Mineur Philippe , Theunissen Koen , Zachée Pierre , Doyen Chantal , Put Natalie , Lejeune Marie , Van Eygen Koen , Havelange Violaine , Reusens Michael , Pluymers Wim , Peeters Karen
Published: June 2019

Objectives: To assess interruptions/discontinuations of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment in Belgian patients with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). Methods: This retrospective study included patients with TKI interruptions/discontinuations of ≥4 continuous weeks (no clinical trial context) between May 2013 and May 2016. Data collection took place between October 2016 and February 2017. Results: All 60 participants (69 interruptions/discontinuations) had chronic-phase CML and 75% had at least a major molecular response (≥MMR) at interruption/discontinuation. Most interruptions/discontinuations occurred while on imatinib (36/69; 49%) and dasatinib (20/69; 29%). Most interruptions/discontinuations occurred due to side effects/intolerance (46/69; 67%); other reasons included a wish to conceive (6/69; 9%) and attempts to achieve treatment-free remission (TFR) (6/69; 9%). Interruptions due to side effects occurred later for imatinib- or dasatinib-treated patients than for those on nilotinib or ponatinib. Treatment was re-initiated in 62% (43/69) of cases. Most interruptions caused by side effects/intolerance were followed by treatment changes. All 4 patients with ≥MR 4.5 at interruption/discontinuation and ≥11-month follow-up who had not restarted treatment maintained the response. Conclusion: Although TKIs are used for long-term CML treatment, physicians sometimes recommend interruptions/discontinuations. In this study, interruptions/discontinuations were mainly caused by side effects or intolerance, rather than TFR attempts.
Erosion-Protective Capacity of the Salivary Pellicle of Female and Male Subjects Is Not Different
Authors: Wiegand Annette , Rosemann Anne , Hoch Monika , Barke Sarah , Dakna Mohammed , Kanzow Philipp
Published: June 2019

This study aimed to analyse if the erosion-protective potential of the salivary pellicle is different between female and male subjects. Bovine enamel and dentin specimens (each n = 3) were exposed to the oral cavity of healthy female or male volunteers (each n = 25, females: 25.8 ± 3.5 years, males: 26.7 ± 4.0 years) for 120 min to form a salivary pellicle. Subsequently, each 2 enamel and 2 dentin specimens were eroded with hydrochloric acid (pH 2.6, 60 s). Specimens of the control group (each n = 30) were eroded without presenting a salivary pellicle. Calcium release into the acid was determined photometrically. Additionally, total protein content in the pellicle (each n = 1 enamel and dentin specimen/volunteer) and different salivary parameters (flow rate, pH, buffer capacity, protein, albumin, calcium, phosphate, fluoride) were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed by one-way ANOVA, t tests, multiple linear regressions and Pearson correlations (p < 0.05). The erosion-protective capacity was not significantly different among female (calcium release [% of control]: enamel: 82.6 ± 28.1, dentin: 80.7 ± 24.0) and male (enamel: 76.0 ± 27.5, dentin: 87.1 ± 34.9) subjects. The protein content of the pellicle was not different between female and male subjects. The protein content and pH of unstimulated saliva were significantly reduced in female compared to male volunteers. Calcium release was neither correlated with the protein content of the salivary pellicle nor with salivary parameters. Under the conditions of the present study, the erosion-protective capacity of the salivary pellicle of female and male subjects is not different.
A Strategy for the Promotion of Health Literacy in Portugal, Centered around the Life-Course Approach: The Importance of Digital Tools
Authors: Silva Costa Andreia , Arriaga Miguel , Veloso Mendes Rita , Miranda Débora , Barbosa Patrícia , Sakellarides Constantino , Peralta André , Ambrósio Lopes Nuno , Roque Célia , Ribeiro Sofia
Published: June 2019

Applied to health, literacy enhances the capacity to make the decisions that are necessary for autonomous health management. With this position paper, we intend to defend the thesis that the conditions for creating a national strategy for health literacy in Portugal along the life course are strengthened by the modernization of the National Health Service (SNS). First, we conducted a scope review on health literacy, and then we collected data on the National Strategy for Health Literacy and the different actions around it. The Literacy Program in Health and Care Integration, aligned with the modernization program of the National Health Service “SNS + Proximidade,” has been developed based on a life course approach. On the other hand, the National Strategy for Health Literacy, in addition to encompassing different dimensions of health literacy, from the individual and community level to the health systems, also presents strategic opportunities for intervention in contexts associated with different determinants of health. The digital Health Literacy Library of the SNS Portal is the first tool to integrate this strategy, being a digital repository of resources to support the promotion of health literacy, accessible at all times. These resources include interactive digital health books and the “My Health Journal,” encouraging people to organize their health information and take control of their health throughout their lives. The strategy also includes plans to bring these resources to people in various everyday contexts, such as public libraries, schools, and day centers, enabling their activation. At the same time, the digital modernization of the SNS allows health information to be made available in the Citizen Area of the SNS Portal, for example, by facilitating each citizen’s access to their health information in a confidential way. The entire process of implementing the health literacy strategy is dynamic and aims to encourage all citizens to participate in its construction and evaluation, and consequently in its adaptation and continuous improvement.
Renal-Limited Thrombotic Microangiopathy due to Bevacizumab Therapy for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Toriu Naoya , Sekine Akinari , Mizuno Hiroki , Hasegawa Eiko , Yamanouchi Masayuki , Hiramatsu Rikako , Hayami Noriko , Hoshino Junichi , Kawada Masahiro , Suwabe Tatsuya , Sumida Keiichi , Sawa Naoki , Takaichi Kenmei , Ohashi Kenichi , Fujii Takeshi , Matoba Shuichiro , Ubara Yoshifumi
Published: June 2019

An 88-year-old Japanese man received bevacizumab for colorectal cancer with liver and peritoneal metastasis, during which nephrotic range proteinuria occurred (7.66 g/day). Renal biopsy showed endothelial damage with subendothelial swelling and a double contour of the glomerular basement membrane, which indicated a diagnosis of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). After bevacizumab was stopped, proteinuria decreased to 1 g/day. During the clinical course, this patient had no extrarenal manifestations. This case suggests that renal injury induced by bevacizumab is characterized by nephrotic range proteinuria and histological TMA, and is a renal-limited condition that differs from systemic TMA related to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.