bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Analysis of Rectangular Plate Stiffened by Any Number of Beams with Different Lengths and Orientations
Authors: Cao Yuan , Zhong Rui , Shao Dong , Wang Qingshan , Guan Xianlei
Published: November 2019

The present work is concerned with dynamic characteristics of beam‐stiffened rectangular plate by an improved Fourier series method (IFSM), including mobility characteristics, structural intensity, and transient response. The artificial coupling spring technology is introduced to establish the clamped or elastic connections at the interface between the plate and beams. According to IFSM, the displacement field of the plate and the stiffening beams are expressed as a combination of the Fourier cosine series and its auxiliary functions. Then, the Rayleigh–Ritz method is applied to solve the unknown Fourier coefficients, which determines the dynamic characteristics of the coupled structure. The Newmark method is adopted to obtain the transient response of the coupled structure, where the Rayleigh damping is taken into consideration. The rapid convergence of the current method is shown, and good agreement between the predicted results and FEM results is also revealed. On this basis, the effects of the factors related to the stiffening beam (including the length, orientations, and arrangement spacing of beams) and elastic parameters, as well as damping coefficients on the dynamic characteristics of the stiffened plate are investigated.
Enaminone-Derived Pyrazoles with Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Bhat Mashooq Ahmad , Al-Omar Mohamed A. , Naglah Ahmed M. , Khan Abdul Arif
Published: November 2019

A series of pyrazoles derived from the substituted enaminones were synthesized and were evaluated for antimicrobial activity. All the compounds were characterized by the spectral data and elemental analysis. The synthesized compounds were initially screened for their antimicrobial activity against ATCC 6538, NCTC 10400, NCTC 10418, and ATCC 27853. During initial screening, compounds (P1, P6, and P11) presented significant antimicrobial activity through disc diffusion assay. These compounds were further evaluated for antimicrobial activity at different time points against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and presented significant activity for 6 hours. The activity was found to be greater against Gram-positive bacteria. In contrast at 24 hours, the activity was found only against Gram-positive bacteria except compound (P11), showing activity against both types of bacteria. Compound (P11) was found to have highest activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
A Comparative Study of Two-Compartment Exchange Models for Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MRI in Characterizing Uterine Cervical Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xue , Lin Wenxiao , Mao Yiting , Peng Wenwen , Song Jiao , Lu Yi , Zhao Yu , Koh Tong San , Hou Zujun , Yan Zhihan
Published: November 2019

A variety of tracer kinetic methods have been employed to assess tumor angiogenesis. The Standard two-Compartment model (SC) used in cervix carcinoma was less frequent, and Adiabatic Approximation to the Tissue Homogeneity (AATH) and Distributed Parameter (DP) model are lacking. This study compares two-compartment exchange models (2CXM) (AATH, SC, and DP) for determining dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) parameters in cervical cancer, with the aim of investigating the potential of various parameters derived from 2CXM for tumor diagnosis and exploring the possible relationship between these parameters in patients with cervix cancer. Parameters (tissue blood flow, Fp; tissue blood volume, Vp; interstitial volume, Ve; and vascular permeability, PS) for regions of interest (ROI) of cervix lesions and normal cervix tissue were estimated by AATH, SC, and DP models in 36 patients with cervix cancer and 17 healthy subjects. All parameters showed significant differences between lesions and normal tissue with a P value less than 0.05, except for PS from the AATH model, Fp from the SC model, and Vp from the DP model. Parameter Ve from the AATH model had the largest AUC (r = 0.85). Parameters Fp and Vp from SC and DP models and Ve and PS from AATH and DP models were highly correlated, respectively, (r > 0.8) in cervix lesions. Cervix cancer was found to have a very unusual microcirculation pattern, with over-growth of cancer cells but without evident development of angiogenesis. Ve has the best performance in identifying cervix cancer. Most physiological parameters derived from AATH, SC, and DP models are linearly correlated in cervix cancer.
A Robust Gene Expression Prognostic Signature for Overall Survival in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Zhao Yue , Yang Shao-Min , Jin Yu-Lan , Xiong Guang-Wu , Wang Pin , Snijders Antoine M. , Mao Jian-Hua , Zhang Xiao-Wei , Hang Bo
Published: November 2019

The objective of this research was to develop a robust gene expression-based prognostic signature and scoring system for predicting overall survival (OS) of patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). Transcriptomic data of HGSOC patients were obtained from six independent studies in the NCBI GEO database. Genes significantly deregulated and associated with OS in HGSOCs were selected using GEO2R and Kaplan–Meier analysis with log-rank testing, respectively. Enrichment analysis for biological processes and pathways was performed using Gene Ontology analysis. A resampling/cross-validation method with Cox regression analysis was used to identify a novel gene expression-based signature associated with OS, and a prognostic scoring system was developed and further validated in nine independent HGSOC datasets. We first identified 488 significantly deregulated genes in HGSOC patients, of which 232 were found to be significantly associated with their OS. These genes were significantly enriched for cell cycle division, epithelial cell differentiation, p53 signaling pathway, vasculature development, and other processes. A novel 11-gene prognostic signature was identified and a prognostic scoring system was developed, which robustly predicted OS in HGSOC patients in 100 sampling test sets. The scoring system was further validated successfully in nine additional HGSOC public datasets. In conclusion, our integrative bioinformatics study combining transcriptomic and clinical data established an 11-gene prognostic signature for robust and reproducible prediction of OS in HGSOC patients. This signature could be of clinical value for guiding therapeutic selection and individualized treatment.
Genetically Modified Porcine Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Lentiviral Tbx18 Create a Biological Pacemaker
Authors: Hu Yannan , Li Ning , Liu Liang , Zhang Hao , Xue Xiang , Shao Xin , Zhang Yu , Lang Xilong
Published: November 2019

Background. Tbx18 is a vital transcription factor involved in embryonic sinoatrial node (SAN) formation process but is gradually vanished after birth. Myocardial injection of lentiviral Tbx18 converts cardiomyocytes into pacemaker-like cells morphologically and functionally. In this in vitro and in vivo study, genetical modification of porcine bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) by recapturing the Tbx18 expression creates a biological pacemaker which was examined. Methods. The isolated porcine BMSCs were transfected with lentiviral Tbx18, and the induced pacemaker-like cells were analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting to investigate the efficiency of transformation. Then, the induced pacemaker-like cells were implanted into the right ventricle of the SAN dysfunction porcine model after the differentiation process. Biological pacemaker activity and ectopic pacing region were tested by an electrocardiograph (ECG) monitor. Results. The isolated porcine BMSCs expressed specific surface markers of stem cells; meanwhile, the expression of myocardial markers was upregulated significantly after lentiviral Tbx18 transfection. The porcine SAN dysfunction model was constructed by electrocoagulation using a surgical electrotome. The results showed that the mean heart beat (HR) of BMSCs-Tbx18 was significantly higher than that of BMSCs-GFP. An ectopic pacing region was affirmed into the right ventricle by ECG after implantation of BMSCs-Tbx18. Conclusion. It was verified that Lenti-Tbx18 is capable of transducing porcine BMSCs into pacemaker-like cells. Genetically modified porcine BMSCs by lentiviral Tbx18 could create a biological pacemaker. However, further researches in large-scale animals are required to rule out unexpected complications prior to application in clinical practice.
Microarray Analysis For Expression Profiles of lncRNAs and circRNAs in Rat Liver after Brain-Dead Donor Liver Transplantation
Authors: Chen Sanyang , Fang Hongbo , Li Jie , Shi Jihua , Zhang Jiakai , Wen Peihao , Wang Zhihui , Yang Han , Cao Shengli , Zhang Huapeng , Tang Hongwei , Guo Wenzhi , Zhang Shuijun
Published: November 2019

The mechanisms underlying severe liver injury after brain-dead (BD) donor liver transplantation (BDDLT) remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to explore the roles of lncRNAs and circRNAs in liver injury after BDDLT. Rat liver injury was detected in the sham, BD, control, and BDDLT groups. We examined the expression profiles of lncRNAs and circRNAs in the livers of the BDDLT and control group using microarray analysis. The main functions of the differentially expressed genes were analyzed by gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. In addition, we used bioinformatic analyses to construct related expression networks. Liver injury was aggravated in the BD and BDDLT groups. We found various mRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs that were differentially expressed in the BDDLT group compared with those in the control group. Coding-noncoding gene co-expression (CNC) network analysis showed that expression of the lncRNA LOC102553657 was associated with that of the apoptosis-related genes including HMOX1 and ATF3. Furthermore, competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) network analysis revealed that the lncRNA LOC103692832 and rno_circRNA_007609 were ceRNAs of rno-miR-135a-5p targeting Atf3, Per2, and Mras. These results suggest that lncRNAs and circRNAs play important roles in the pathogenesis and development of liver injury during BDDLT.
Whole-Genome Sequencing Identifies the Egl Nine Homologue 3 (egln3/phd3) and Protein Phosphatase 1 Regulatory Inhibitor Subunit 2 (PPP1R2P1) Associated with High-Altitude Polycythemia in Tibetans at High Altitude
Authors: Gesang Luobu , Gusang Lamu , Dawa Ciren , Gesang Gawa , Li Kang
Published: November 2019

Background. The hypoxic conditions at high altitudes are great threats to survival, causing pressure for adaptation. More and more high-altitude denizens are not adapted with the condition known as high-altitude polycythemia (HAPC) that featured excessive erythrocytosis. As a high-altitude sickness, the etiology of HAPC is still unclear. Methods. In this study, we reported the whole-genome sequencing-based study of 10 native Tibetans with HAPC and 10 control subjects followed by genotyping of selected 21 variants from discovered single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in an independent cohort (232 cases and 266 controls). Results. We discovered the egl nine homologue 3 (egln3/phd3) (14q13.1, rs1346902, P=1.91×10−5) and PPP1R2P1 (Protein Phosphatase 1 Regulatory Inhibitor Subunit 2) gene (6p21.32, rs521539, P=0.012). Our results indicated an unbiased framework to identify etiological mechanisms of HAPC and showed that egln3/phd3 and PPP1R2P1 may be associated with the susceptibility to HAPC. Egln3/phd3b is associated with hypoxia-inducible factor subunit α (HIFα). Protein Phosphatase 1 Regulatory Inhibitor is associated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress. Conclusions. Our genome sequencing conducted in Tibetan HAPC patients identified egln3/phd3 and PPP1R2P1 associated with HAPC.
Integrative Analysis Reveals Comprehensive Altered Metabolic Genes Linking with Tumor Epigenetics Modification in Pan-Cancer
Authors: Shi Yahui , Wei Jinfen , Chen Zixi , Yuan Yuchen , Li Xingsong , Zhang Yanyu , Meng Yuhuan , Hu Yumin , Du Hongli
Published: November 2019

Background. Cancer cells undergo various rewiring of metabolism and dysfunction of epigenetic modification to support their biosynthetic needs. Although the major features of metabolic reprogramming have been elucidated, the global metabolic genes linking epigenetics were overlooked in pan-cancer. Objectives. Identifying the critical metabolic signatures with differential expressions which contributes to the epigenetic alternations across cancer types is an urgent issue for providing the potential targets for cancer therapy. Method. The differential gene expression and DNA methylation were analyzed by using the 5726 samples data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Results. Firstly, we analyzed the differential expression of metabolic genes and found that cancer underwent overall metabolism reprogramming, which exhibited a similar expression trend with the data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Secondly, the regulatory network of histone acetylation and DNA methylation according to altered expression of metabolism genes was summarized in our results. Then, the survival analysis showed that high expression of DNMT3B had a poorer overall survival in 5 cancer types. Integrative altered methylation and expression revealed specific genes influenced by DNMT3B through DNA methylation across cancers. These genes do not overlap across various cancer types and are involved in different function annotations depending on the tissues, which indicated DNMT3B might influence DNA methylation in tissue specificity. Conclusions. Our research clarifies some key metabolic genes, ACLY, SLC2A1, KAT2A, and DNMT3B, which are most disordered and indirectly contribute to the dysfunction of histone acetylation and DNA methylation in cancer. We also found some potential genes in different cancer types influenced by DNMT3B. Our study highlights possible epigenetic disorders resulting from the deregulation of metabolic genes in pan-cancer and provides potential therapy in the clinical treatment of human cancer.
Delayed Rectifier K+-Channel Is a Novel Therapeutic Target for Interstitial Renal Fibrosis in Rats with Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction
Authors: Abe Nozomu , Toyama Hiroaki , Saito Kazutomo , Ejima Yutaka , Yamauchi Masanori , Mushiake Hajime , Kazama Itsuro
Published: November 2019

Background. Delayed rectifier K+-channel, Kv1.3, is most predominantly expressed in T-lymphocytes and macrophages. In such leukocytes, Kv1.3-channels play pivotal roles in the activation and proliferation of cells, promoting cellular immunity. Since leukocyte-derived cytokines stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen fibers in inflamed kidneys, Kv1.3-channels expressed in leukocytes would contribute to the progression of tubulointerstitial renal fibrosis. Methods. Male Sprague-Dawley rats that underwent unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) were used at 1, 2, or 3 weeks after the operation. We examined the histological features of the kidneys and the leukocyte expression of Kv1.3-channels. We also examined the therapeutic effects of a selective channel inhibitor, margatoxin, on the progression of renal fibrosis and the proliferation of leukocytes within the cortical interstitium. Results. In rat kidneys with UUO, progression of renal fibrosis and the infiltration of leukocytes became most prominent at 3 weeks after the operation, when Kv1.3-channels were overexpressed in proliferating leukocytes. In the cortical interstitium of margatoxin-treated UUO rat kidneys, immunohistochemistry revealed reduced expression of fibrosis markers. Additionally, margatoxin significantly decreased the numbers of leukocytes and suppressed their proliferation. Conclusions. This study clearly demonstrated that the numbers of T-lymphocytes and macrophages were markedly increased in UUO rat kidneys with longer postobstructive days. The overexpression of Kv1.3-channels in leukocytes was thought to be responsible for the proliferation of these cells and the progression of renal fibrosis. This study strongly suggested the therapeutic usefulness of targeting lymphocyte Kv1.3-channels in the treatment of renal fibrosis.
Determining the Levels of Four Phenylethanoid Glycosides and Five Triterpene Acids in Liuwei Dihuang Capsule Using Solid Phase Extraction with HPLC-UV
Authors: Zhang Yong , Zou Xian-Liang , Wang Yong-Li , Gao Lu , Chou Gui-Xin
Published: November 2019

In this study, we used quantitative high-performance liquid chromatography equipped with an ultraviolet detector (HPLC-UV) and solid phase extraction (SPE) to determine the levels of four phenylethanoid glycosides and five triterpene acids in Liuwei Dihuang capsules (LDCs). LDCs were methanol-extracted and purified using a 500 mg/6 mL silica-based C18 SPE cartridge. Two elutions were analyzed on a ChromCore C18 column under two HPLC conditions. To improve the pretreatment clean-up, an array of silica- and polymer-based SPE cartridges were compared. Both wash and elution steps were also optimized to achieve the highest removal of impurities. Under optimal chromatographic conditions, good linearity was achieved for all compounds (correlation coefficient of r ≥ 0.999), with a quantification limit ranging from 0.0076 to 0.418 μg/mL. The method had satisfactory efficiency and reproducibility with recovery rates ranging from 91.6 to 99.3% with a relative standard deviation below 1.5%. Taken together, this demonstrated SPE as a suitable extension of HPLC-UV for the determination of phenylethanoid glycosides and triterpene acids in complex LDCs.
Seismic Performance of Exterior Steel Ring‐Stiffener Joint
Authors: Zhang Zhaoqiang , Sa Yanru , Yao Yong , Zhao Junhai
Published: November 2019

We study the seismic performance of the exterior steel ring‐stiffener (ESRS) joint, a member that is used to connect a steel beam to a square steel tubular column filled with steel fibre recycled concrete for seismic resistance. To this end, the influence of seismic factors such as axial compression ratio and beam‐column linear stiffness ratio on seven specimens is studied. A physical test is conducted on the specimens with a series of cyclic loadings. The testing and analysis of hysteretic loops and skeleton curves of the ESRS joints revealed the seismic performance characteristics including failure mode, rigidity, ductility, bearing‐capacity degradation, and energy dissipation capacity. The results reveal (a) damage to the specimens at the beam‐end near the joint, (b) no failure at the joints’ core area and column, (c) appearance of a plastic hinge at the beam‐end near the joint, and (d) plump spindle‐shaped hysteretic loops and normal rigidity degradation curves in the specimens. The specimens are then simulated with the finite element method (FEM) and the results are compared with those of the physical test.
Talar Dome Investigation and Talocrural Joint Axis Analysis Based on Three-Dimensional (3D) Models: Implications for Prosthetic Design
Authors: Zhao Da-Hang , Huang Di-Chao , Zhang Gong-Hao , Fan Yun-Ping , Yu Jian , Wang Shao-Bai , Wang Kan , Ma Xin
Published: November 2019

Ankle joint kinematics is mainly stabilized by the morphology of the talar dome and the articular surface of tibiofibular mortise as well as the medial and lateral ligament complexes. Because of this the bicondylar geometry of talus dome is believed to be crucial for ankle implant design. However, little data exist describing the precise anatomy of the talar dome and the talocrural joint axis. The aim of this study is to document the anatomy of the talar dome and the axis of the talocrural joint using three-dimensional (3D) computed tomographic (CT) modeling. Seventy-one participants enrolled for CT scanning and 3D talar model reconstruction. All the ankles were held in a neutral position during the CT scanning. Six points on the lateral and medial crest of the talar dome were defined. The coordinate of the six points; radii of lateral-anterior (R-LA), lateral-posterior (R-LP), medial-anterior (R-MA), and medial-posterior (R-MP) sections; and inclination angle of the talar dome were measured, and the inclination and deviation angles of the talocrural joint axis were determined. The mean values of R-LA, R-LP, R-MA, and R-MP were 19.23 ± 2.47 mm, 18.76 ± 2.90 mm, 17.02 ± 3.49 mm, and 22.75 ± 3.04 mm. The mean inclination angle of the talar dome was 9.86 ± 3.30 degrees. Gender variation was found in this parameter. The mean inclination and deviation angles were 8.60 ± 0.07 and 0.76 ± 0.69 degrees for the dorsiflexion axis and −7.34 ± 0.07 and 0.09 ± 0.18 degrees for the plantarflexion axis. Bilateral asymmetries between the medial and lateral crest of the talar dome were found, which resulted in different dorsiflexion and plantarflexion axes of the talocrural joint. Currently, no ankle implants replicate this talar anatomy, and these findings should be considered in future implant designs.
Solution to Shortest Path Problem Using a Connective Probe Machine
Authors: Sun Jiuyun , Dong Huanhe , Kong Yuan , Fang Yong
Published: November 2019

With the continuous urban scale expansion, traffic networks have become extremely complex. Finding an optimal route in the shortest time has become a difficult and important issue in traffic engineering study. In this study, a novel computing model, namely, probe machine, is used to solve this problem. Similar to previous studies, urban transport networks can be abstracted into maps, in which points representing places of origin, destinations, and other buildings constitute the data library and edges representing the road make up the probe library. The true solution can be obtained after one probe operation on the computing platform. And by comparing the solving process with Dijkstra’s and Floyd’s algorithms, the computing efficiency of the probe machine is clearly superior, although all three methods can solve the shortest path problem and obtain the same solution.
Clinical Characteristics and Prognosis of Influenza B Virus-Related Hospitalizations in Northern China during the 2017-18 Influenza Season: A Multicenter Case Series
Authors: Liu Danyu , Xu Jun , Yu Xuezhong , Tong Fei , Walline Joseph , Fu Yangyang , Zhao Kun
Published: November 2019

Background. By weekly monitoring of China’s influenza situation, Chinese National Influenza Center observed that the 2017-18 season was predominated by influenza B virus (IBV)/Yamagata. No studies regarding hospitalizations in adults with IBV infections have been performed. We aimed to describe the clinical characteristics of hospitalized patients with IBV infection in northern China. Methods. In this multicenter and retrospective study, we reviewed all consecutive adult patients with confirmed IBV infections at two level A tertiary teaching hospitals in northern China during the 2017-18 influenza season. Patients’ clinical and diagnostic findings, as well as administered treatments and mortality data, were analyzed. Results. A total of 573 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of IBV infection were identified, of whom 22 cases were analyzed because of IBV-related hospitalization. Most patients were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) and had at least one underlying disease. The total in-hospital mortality was 27.3%. An elevated initial pneumonia severity index score, elevated direct bilirubin values, and lower platelet levels were associated with mortality (p=0.020, 0.013, and 0.049, respectively). The quick development of bilateral diffuse alveolar infiltrates was the most common imaging characteristics, following consolidation and pleural effusion(s). Risk factors such as HIV infection, pregnancy, underlying medical conditions, coinfections, and treatment delays were not associated with mortality. Conclusions. IBV should not be neglected because of its significant mortality. The elderly and patients with comorbidities, such as hypertension, diabetes, and connective tissue diseases, are more likely to have severe IBV-related pneumonia. Higher heart rates, direct bilirubin levels, initial PSI scores, and lower platelet levels are correlated with hospital mortality. Increased uptake in tetravalent influenza vaccine should be very helpful in preventing future cases of IBV hospitalizations.
Preparation of Fe(II)/MOF-5 Catalyst for Highly Selective Catalytic Hydroxylation of Phenol by Equivalent Loading at Room Temperature
Authors: Xiang Bai-Lin , Fu Lin , Li Yongfei , Liu Yuejin
Published: November 2019

The metal-organic framework MOF-5 was synthesized by self-assembling of Zn(NO3)2·7H2O and H2BDC using DMF as solvent by the direct precipitation method and loaded with Fe2+ by the equivalent loading method at room temperature to prepare Fe(II)/MOF-5 catalyst and the microstructure, phases, and pore size of which was characterized by IR, XRD, SEM, TEM, and BET. It was found that Fe(II)/MOF-5 had high specific surface and porosity like MOF-5 and uniform pore distribution, and the pore size is 1.2 nm. In order to study the catalytic activity and reaction conditions of Fe(II)/MOF-5, it was used to catalyze the hydroxylation reaction of phenol with hydrogen peroxide. The results showed that the dihydroxybenzene yield of 53.2% and the catechol selectivity of 98.6% were obtained at the Fe2+ content of 3 wt.%, the mass ratio of Fe(II)/MOF-5 to phenol of 0.053, the reaction temperature of 80°C, and the reaction time of 2 h.
Soluble Production, Characterization, and Structural Aesthetics of an Industrially Important Thermostable β-Glucosidase from Clostridium thermocellum in Escherichia coli
Authors: Ahmed Syed Shoaib , Akhter Mohsina , Sajjad Muhammad , Gul Roquyya , Khurshid Sana
Published: November 2019

This study aims to achieve high-level soluble expression and characterization of a thermostable industrially important enzyme, i.e., beta-glucosidase (BglA; EC: 3.2.1.21), from Clostridium thermocellum (C. thermocellum) by cloning in an Escherichia coli (E. coli) expression system. BglA was expressed as a partially soluble component of total cellular protein (TCP) having a molecular weight of ∼53 kDa with 50% of it as soluble fraction. Purification in two steps, namely, heat inactivation and Ni-chromatography, yielded approximately 30% and 15% of BglA, respectively. The purified (∼98%) BglA enzyme showed promising activity against the salicin substrate having a Km of 19.83 mM and a Vmax of 0.12 μmol/min. The enzyme had an optimal temperature and pH of 50°C and 7.0, respectively, while retaining its catalytic activity up till 60°C and at pH 7. The optimized maximum expression level was attained in M9NG medium with lactose as an inducer. Circular dichroism revealed presence of alpha helix (43.50%) and small percentage of beta sheets (10.60%). Factors like high-end cellulolytic activity, fair thermal stability, stability against low pH, and ease of purification make BglA from C. thermocellum a potential candidate in industrial applications.
Estimation of Motor Impairment and Usage of Upper Extremities during Daily Living Activities in Poststroke Hemiparesis Patients by Observation of Time Required to Accomplish Hand Dexterity Tasks
Authors: Tanaka Tomoko , Hamaguchi Toyohiro , Suzuki Makoto , Sakamoto Daigo , Shikano Junpei , Nakaya Naoki , Abo Masahiro
Published: November 2019

Aim. This study evaluated whether specific actual performance could accurately predict body function levels and upper limb use in the real-life functioning of poststroke hemiparesis patients to aid in choosing the most appropriate rehabilitation exercises.Methods. We measured the time taken for poststroke patients to move small objects with the paralyzed hand and investigated how the measurement could estimate upper extremity motor impairment and hand usage during activities of daily living (ADL). We examined 86 stroke patients (age 66 ± 16 years) whose upper extremity motor paralysis was measured using the Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA) and Southampton Hand Assessment Procedure (SHAP), and patient-reported ADL was investigated using the Jikei Assessment Scale for Motor Impairment in Daily Living (JASMID). To identify the time required to perform each SHAP item, we employed a linear regression analysis. The prediction formula was used in the linear regression analysis, and the coefficient of determination (R2) was applied to compare each component item score that was obtained with the predicted values derived from the linear regression analysis.Results. The most easily accomplished task was Heavy Power in the SHAP. TheR2between the SHAP Heavy Power item score and the FMA scores was moderate (R2 = 0.344,P<0.0001), whereas theR2with the JASMID score was low (R2 = 0.126,P<0.001).Conclusions. By measuring the time it takes for poststroke hemiparesis patients to hold and move an object, we developed a prediction formula for upper extremity motor function and hand dexterity.
Performance Index Based Observer‐Type Iterative Learning Control for Consensus Tracking of Uncertain Nonlinear Fractional‐Order Multiagent Systems
Authors: Wang Liming , Zhang Guoshan
Published: November 2019

This paper is devoted to the perfect tracking problem of consensus and the monotonic convergence problem of input errors for the uncertain nonlinear fractional‐order multiagent systems (FOMASs), where there exist the linear coupling relations between the fractional order, the perturbations of the system matrix, and input matrix. For the FOMASs including one leader agent and multiple follower agents, an observer‐type fractional‐order iterative learning consensus protocol is proposed. Based on the two‐dimensional analysis for the FOMASs, a novel performance index, which can exhibit the monotonic convergence of the input errors, is constructed by using the definition of fractional integral. A Lyapunov‐like method is applied to derive the sufficient conditions in terms of linear matrix inequalities, which can guarantee the perfect tracking of consensus and the monotonic convergence of input errors. Finally, the numerical simulation results including comparisons to traditional two‐dimensional analysis are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Breast Reconstruction with Perforator Flaps in Poland Syndrome: Report of a Two-Stage Strategy and Literature Review
Authors: Xu Boyang , Liu Tong , Liu Chunjun
Published: November 2019

Background: Poland syndrome is a congenital deformity presenting unilateral hypoplasia of the breast, pectoralis muscle, and ipsilateral skeletal anomalies. In complex female cases, the significant amount of soft tissue needed for reconstruction continues to be a surgical challenge. Perforator flaps offer alternative methods with sufficient tissue volume, minimal donor site morbidity, and natural cosmetic outcome; however, their role in Poland syndrome breast reconstruction is seldom discussed. This study aims to present a new 2-stage strategy for esthetic restoration of the Poland syndrome chest anomaly that achieves breast symmetry while maintaining a scarless appearance. Case Presentation: A 38-year-old female presented with Poland syndrome on the right side, and amastia, athelia, and absence of pectoralis major muscle were observed. We present an innovative 2-stage approach consisting of tissue expansion and, successively, a deep inferior epigastric perforator flap transfer. A pleasing breast appearance had been achieved at 6 months of follow-up. A literature review regarding the use of free perforator flaps in Poland syndrome was conducted to demonstrate the applicability of this method. Seven articles described a total of 15 cases using free perforator flaps met the inclusion criteria and were summarized. A satisfactory correction was reported in all the cases. Conclusion: Perforator flaps provide reliable alternatives for Poland syndrome breast and chest-wall reconstruction. Proper patient selection and thorough assessment are vital to the success of the surgery.
Modelos de Avaliação de Destinos Turísticos
Authors: Alvares Daniela Fantoni , Dalonso Yoná , Lourenço Júlia
Published: November 2019

Este artigo propõe uma leitura contextualizada dos modelos de avaliação de destinos turísticos e de seu percurso evolutivo. Desta forma, é realizada uma análise crítica em relação à aplicabilidade e aos principais aspectos observados dos modelos selecionados para o estudo: Leiper; Butler; Mathieson e Wall; Gunn, Mill e Morrison; Boullón; Beni; e Alvares. Como metodologia de pesquisa, utilizou-se a técnica de análise de conteúdo de Bardin. A partir desta pesquisa, observou-se que as teorias de avaliação de destinos turísticos propõem uma análise muito mais indutiva do que assertiva do percurso de desenvolvimento turístico. Por fim, concluiu-se que novas pesquisas são necessárias para aprimorar os modelos existentes, assim como para o estabelecimento de novos modelos passíveis de avaliar o processo de evolução do turismo, a partir da diversidade e da particularidade inerente a cada destino turístico.
High Salt Intake Worsens Aortic Dissection in Mice
Authors: Nishida Norifumi , Aoki Hiroki , Ohno-Urabe Satoko , Nishihara Michihide , Furusho Aya , Hirakata Saki , Hayashi Makiko , Ito Sohei , Yamada Hiroshi , Hirata Yuichiro , Yasukawa Hideo , Imaizumi Tsutomu , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Fukumoto Yoshihiro
Published: November 2019

Objective:

Aortic dissection (AD) is a fatal disease that occurs suddenly without preceding clinical signs or symptoms. Although high salt intake is a proposed risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, the relationship between AD and high salt intake has not been clarified. We examined the effect of high-salt challenge on a mouse AD model.

Approach and Results:

AD was induced in male mice by continuous infusion of β-aminopropionitrile and Ang II (angiotensin II). High-salt challenge exacerbated aortic wall destruction in AD. Deletion of
Il17a
(IL-17KO [IL (interleukin)-17A knockout]) did not affect the AD phenotype at baseline, but it abolished the high salt–induced worsening of the aortic destruction. Unexpectedly, aortas of IL-17KO mice exhibited global changes in ECM (extracellular matrix)-related genes without alteration of proinflammatory genes, altered architecture of collagen fibers, and reduced stiffness before AD induction. The aortas of IL-17KO mice were less sensitive to AD-inducing stimuli, as shown by the induction of phenotypic modulation markers SMemb and vimentin, suggesting a reduced stress response. The aortas of IL-17KO mice had a higher population of smooth muscle cells with nuclear-localized phosphorylated Smad2, indicative of TGFβ (transforming growth factor-beta) signal activation. Consistently, pretreatment of smooth muscle cells in culture with IL-17A blunted the activation of Smad2 by TGFβ1.

Conclusions:

These findings indicate that high salt intake has a worsening effect on AD in the context of high aortic wall stiffness, which is under the control of IL-17A through ECM metabolism. Therefore, salt restriction may represent a low-cost and practical way to reduce AD risk.
Five‐Year Outcomes in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus Treated With Biodegradable Polymer Sirolimus‐Eluting Stents Versus Durable Polymer Everolimus‐Eluting Stents
Authors: Iglesias Juan F. , Heg Dik , Roffi Marco , Tüller David , Lanz Jonas , Rigamonti Fabio , Muller Olivier , Moarof Igal , Cook Stéphane , Weilenmann Daniel , Kaiser Christoph , Cuculi Florim , Valgimigli Marco , Jüni Peter , Windecker Stephan , Pilgrim Thomas
Published: November 2019

Background

The choice of optimal drug‐eluting stent therapy for patients with diabetes mellitus (
DM
) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention remains uncertain. We aimed to assess the long‐term clinical outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention with biodegradable polymer sirolimus‐eluting stents (
BP
‐
SES
) versus durable polymer everolimus‐eluting stents (
DP
‐
EES
) in patients with
DM
.

Methods and Results

In a prespecified subgroup analysis of the
BIOSCIENCE
(Ultrathin Strut Biodegradable Polymer Sirolimus‐Eluting Stent Versus Durable Polymer Everolimus‐Eluting Stent for Percutaneous Coronary Revascularization) trial (
NCT
01443104), patients randomly assigned to ultrathin‐strut
BP
‐
SES
or thin‐strut
DP
‐
EES
were stratified according to diabetic status. The primary end point was target lesion failure, a composite of cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction, and clinically indicated target lesion revascularization, at 5 years. Among 2119 patients, 486 (22.9%) presented with
DM
. Compared with individuals without DM, patients with
DM
were older and had a greater baseline cardiac risk profile. In patients with DM, target lesion failure at 5 years occurred in 74 patients (cumulative incidence, 31.0%) treated with
BP
‐
SES
and 57 patients (25.8%) treated with
DP
‐
EES
(risk ratio, 1.23; 95%
CI
, 0.87–1.73 [
P
=0.24]). In individuals without DM, target lesion failure at 5 years occurred in 124 patients (16.8%) treated with
BP
‐
SES
and 132 patients (16.8%) treated with
DP
‐
EES
(risk ratio, 0.98; 95%
CI,
0.77–1.26 [
P
=0.90;
P
for interaction=0.31]). Cumulative 5‐year incidence rates of cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction, clinically indicated target lesion revascularization, and definite stent thrombosis were similar among patients with DM treated with
BP
‐
SES
or
DP
‐
EES
. There was no interaction between diabetic status and treatment effect of
BP
‐
SES
versus
DP
‐
EES
.

Conclusions

In a prespecified subgroup analysis of the
BIOSCIENCE
trial, we found no difference in clinical outcomes throughout 5 years between patients with DM treated with ultrathin‐strut
BP
‐
SES
or thin‐strut
DP
‐
EES
.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/
. Unique identifier:
NCT
01443104.
50 Years of Modelling Second Temple Judaism: Whence and Wither?
Authors: Petersen Anders Klostergaard
Published: November 2019

The first section describes the major progress in the study of Second Temple Judaism during the past fifty years, since A.S. van der Woude founded the Journal for the Study of Judaism. This part—the whence—comprises the main bulk of the argument. It also paves the way for the conclusion—the wither. There, I present some ideas potentially leading to new advances in the field. I call for an engagement with the social and natural sciences based on a gene-culture coevolutionary paradigm. In particular, adopting a biocultural evolutionary perspective makes it possible to situate the field and its empirical focus in a much larger context. Thereby, we shall be able to tackle some of the pivotal questions with which our scholarly predecessors wrestled. Finally, I discuss emotional studies that may help us to get a better grasp on a traditionally moot question in the texts we study.
State Practice as Element of Customary International Law: A White Knight in International Criminal Law?
Authors: van der Wilt Harmen
Published: November 2019

Inter-state practice is relatively scarce in the area of human rights and international criminal law. This article ventures to inquire how this has affected the process of identification of customary international law by international criminal tribunals and courts. The main conclusion is that the two components of customary international law – opinio juris and state practice – have become blurred. In search of customary international law, international tribunals have resorted to national legislation and case law of domestic courts. These legal artefacts can be qualified as both evidence of state practice and opinio juris. The author attempts to explain the reasons for this development and holds that, if properly applied, the methodology, while seemingly messy, comports with the nature of international criminal law.
Omentin-1 Promotes the Proliferation, Invasion, Migration and Angiogenesis of Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Ye Hua , Luo Hui , Tu Yun , Cui Liao
Published: November 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the common malignant tumors of digestive system, which the incidence of CRC has been on the rise in recent years. Omentin-1 is reported to be increased in plasma of CRC patients. The present study aimed to investigate whether Omentin-1 could promote
the proliferation, invasion, migration and angiogenesis of colorectal cancer cells. ELISA assay and western blot analysis detected the Omentin-1 level in plasma of CRC patients and western blot analysis and RT-qPCR analysis detected the Omentin-1 level in colorectal cancer cell lines. The
transfection effects were verified by western blot analysis. The cell proliferation, invasion and migration were determined by CCK-8 assay, wound healing assay and transwell assay. The expression of MMP2, MMP9, VEGF and AngII was analyzed by western blot analysis. The results showed that Omentin-1
was increased in plasma of CRC patients and colorectal cancer cell lines. Omentin-1 overexpression promoted the proliferation, invasion, migration and angiogenesis of colorectal cancer cells. And, up-regulation of Omentin-1 increased the expression of MMP2, MMP9, VEGF and AngII. In conclusion,
our data suggested that Omentin-1 promoted the proliferation, invasion, migration and angiogenesis of colorectal cancer cells.
miR-938 Promotes the Proliferation and Invasion of Prostate Cancer Through Targeting Pleckstrin Homology (PH) Domain Leucine-Rich-Repeats Protein Phosphatase 2 and Forkhead Box O3
Authors: Deng Xin , Wang Fengye , Zhang Qianjin , Yang Xuejian , Liu Hao , Yu Lei
Published: November 2019

miR-938 is generally reported to be up-regulated in various cancers, which affect the tumor progression. In the present study, we investigated the biological role and underlying mechanisms of miR-938 in prostate cancer (PCa). PCa is the most common malignant tumor in males with markedly
increasing incidence in recent years. Up-regulation of miR-938 occurred in PCa tissues and cell lines at mRNA level. Functional assays were established to demonstrate that miR-938 mimics significantly promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of PCa cells, while knockdown of miR-938
led to the inhibition. Luciferase activity assay suggested miR-938 directly bound to the 3 UTR of PHLPP2 (Pleckstrin Homology (PH) domain Leucine-rich-repeats Protein Phosphatase 2) and FOXO3 (Forkhead box O3). Our results also showed that the regulation activity of miR-938 on progression
of PCa was partially through its negative regulation on PHLPP2 and FOXO3. Our results deciphered the mechanism through which miR-938 promoted the progression of PCa by activation of PI3K/AKT signal pathway. Together, inactivation of PI3K/AKT signal pathway through down-regulation of miR-938
could be an important mechanism in inhibiting PCa progression, thus shedding light on the development of novel anti-tumor therapies for treatment of PCa.
Long Noncoding RNA Myocardial Infarction-Associated Transcript as a Cancer Promoting Factor in Colon Cancer Development
Authors: Zhi Wang , Zongdan Jiang , Yushu Zhang , Xiaojun Xu , Zhenyu Zhang
Published: November 2019

Objection: The study aimed to explain the effects and mechanisms of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MIAT in development of colon cancer. Methods: The adjacent and cancer tissues which were collected from 30 cases colon cancer patients were evaluated pathology by HE staining
and lncRNA MIAT expression by ISH assay. In the vitro study, SW620 cells were divided into NC, siRNA-control and siMIAT groups. Measuring cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, invasion and migration by CCK-8, flow cytometry, transwell and wound healing, and evaluating the relative
proteins expressions by WB assay. Results: Compared with adjacent normal tissues, the lncRNA MIAT was significantly up-regulation in colon cancer tissues (P < 0.001). By cell experiment, with lncRNA MIAT knockdown, the cell proliferation was significantly depressed (P
< 0.001) via significantly improving cell apoptosis and keeping the cell in the G1 phase (P < 0.001, respectively); the invasion SW620 cell number and wound healing rate were significantly suppressed (P < 0.001, respectively). The relative proteins (CDK2, Cyclin D3 and
MMP-9) expressions of siMIAT group were significantly down-regulation compared with those of NC group (P < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Our study found that lncRNA MIAT expression is closely associated with colon cancer and may be one of key roles in progression and metastasis
in colon cancer.
Effect of Matrix Metalloproteinase 3 Gene Silencing and SRY-Related High Mobility Group-Box Gene 9 Gene Overexpression on Human Degeneration Nucleus Pulposus Cells In Vitro
Authors: Xi Yong-Ming , Jia Xiang-Zhen , Yu Tao , Wei Hua-Wei , Wang Hua-Cong , Qi Zong-Hua , Liu Yong
Published: November 2019

This study aims to detect the biological effects of matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3) and SRY-related high mobility group-box gene 9 (SOX9) gene regulation in the human intervertebral disc degeneration of nucleus pulposus cells mediated by lentiviral vectors in vitro. The culture
and development of human degenerated intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus cells was performed. The cell morphology and structure were observed, as identified by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. The experiment was divided into five groups: blank control group, SOX9 gene overexpression
group, MMP3 gene silencing group, SOX9 gene overexpression+MMP3 gene silencing group, and blank vector group. RT-PCR and western blot were performed to detect the influence of MMP3 gene silencing and SOX9 gene overexpression on degenerated human intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus cells,
include the secretion of polysaccharide and expression of type II collagen, at the mRNA and protein level. The originally generated degenerated human intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus cells had the same cellular morphology. The MTT assay revealed that the blank group and blank vector group
had no statistical significance in cell proliferation. The MMP3 gene silencing and SOX9 gene overexpression could promote the proliferation of degenerated human intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus cells, when compared with the blank control group and blank vector group, and this more obvious
in the MMP3 gene silencing group and SOX9 gene overexpression group. RT-PCR and western blot revealed that MMP3 gene silencing and SOX9 gene overexpression can promote cells to secrete polysaccharide and type-II collagen (P < 0.05). MMP3 gene silencing and SOX9 gene overexpression
can promote the proliferation of degenerated human intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus cells, and their ability to secrete polysaccharide and type-II collagen.
Teriparatide Promotes Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell Proliferation and Differentiation by Down-Regulating miR-339 to Target DLX5
Authors: Liu Jiankun , Wang Qiangsong , Sun Guiming , Yang Qiang
Published: November 2019

Osteoporosis (OP) is a metabolic bone disease which is characterized as loss of bone mineral content, decreased bone density, bone microstructural destruction, and reduced bone biomechanical evaluation index. Proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)
is important for the treatment of OP. It is proposed that down-regulation of miR-339 can target DLX to promote the proliferation and differentiation of MSCs. However, whether teriparatide promotes osteogenic differentiation through this pathway remains unclear. MSCs were isolated from 4–6
week-old Wister rats. The effect of teriparatide on cell proliferation was evaluated by tetrazolium salt colorimetric method (MTT) and BrdU staining. Cell differentiation was measured by alkaline phosphatase staining. miR-339 expression was detected by real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR).
DLX5 expression was detected by Western-blot. It was found that teriparatide can promote the proliferation and differentiation of MSCs. MiR-339 level was significantly decreased and DLX5 expression was significantly upregulated after teriparatide treatment. After knocking down miR-339, teriparatide-induced
upregulation of DLX5 by was attenuated. Teriparatide promotes the proliferation and differentiation of MSCs by down-regulating miR-339 to improve osteoporosis. It provides theoretical and experimental basis for the treatment of osteoporosis by teriparatide.