bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corrosion Behaviors of Zn, Si, and Mn-Doped Hydroxyapatite Coatings Formed on the Ti–6Al–4V Alloy by Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation
Authors: Park Min-Gyu , Choe Han-Cheol
Published: April 2020

Ti alloy for implant materials is not good biocompatibility between metal implants and natural bone without surface modification. In order to improve the bone attachment ability, implant surface modification is required, and corrosion resistance is also important when a surface modified
implant is inserted into the body. In this study, corrosion behaviors of anodic oxide film formed on Ti–6Al–4V alloy with concentration of Mn and Zn ions were studied using various experimental techniques. Ti–6Al–4V ELI disk were used as the substrate for PEO treatment.
The sample was used a anodic electrode and PEO treatment was carried out by varying the content of each of the electrolytic solutions containing Zn, Mn, Si, Ca and P, using a Pt bar as a cathodic electrode. Pulsed DC power was used at 280 V for 3 min. For the corrosion behaviors of the specimens,
the potentiodynamic polarization and AC impedance test were carried out in 0.9% NaCl solution. From the result of experiments, as Zn ion content increases, the number of pores and the pore size increase. As the Mn ion increases, the number of pores decreases, while the pore size increases.
As the ions of Mn increase, the corrosion potential decreases. As Zn ion content increased, the polarization resistance increased.
Synthesis of Surfactant-Assisted C/Fe–FeVO4 Nanostructure: Characterization and Photocatalytic Degradation of Ciprofloxacin
Authors: Chen Shi-Jie , Zhang Guang-Shan , Li Ying-Jie , Li Jin-Long , Lv Ren-Jiang , Wang Peng , Chen Nan , Chen Xi , Huang Ying-Ying , Yang Li , Zhao De-Chun
Published: April 2020

The novel C/Fe–FeVO4 composite photocatalyst were synthesized by using a two-step hydrothermal synthesis method. Through a detailed exploration on the chemical and phisical properties by some spectroscopic and analytical techniques, the as-prepared C/Fe–FeVO4
exhibted a nanosheet and meso porosity structure. Accordingly, we further utilized this C/Fe–FeVO4 composite as a photocatalist for degradating the notorious ciprofloxacin (CIP) under simulated solar light (SSL) irradiation. Due to its outstanding catalytic properties, the
C/Fe–FeVO4 exhibited superior photocatalytic activity. The possible photocatalytic mechanism has been discussed.
Effect of Cores on Photoluminescence of Hybrid SiO2-Coated CdTe Quantum Dots
Authors: Xie Cong , Zhao Yubin , Song Yuxiang , Liu Yingjie , Wang Yaya , Yang Ping
Published: April 2020

Compared with conventional semiconductor quantum dots, hybrid SiO2 coated CdTe QDs exhibited high stability, long fluorescent lifetime, high photoluminescence quantum yields, and well biocompatibility. In this paper, CdTe QDs with tunable PL from green to red emitting were
prepared by an aqueous synthesis. A sol–gel process resulted in CdTe QDs coated with a hybrid SiO2 shell contained CdS-like clusters to obtain red-shifted PL spectra, increased PL efficiency and high stability. The clusters were formed by the reaction of Cd2+ and
S2− ions generated via the decomposition of thioglycolic acid. The clusters around CdTe cores created a core–shell structure which is very similar with traditional semiconductor core–shell QDs. After being coated with a hybrid SiO2 shell, the PL of green-emitting
naked CdTe QDs was red-shifted largely (~30 nm) while the PL of yellowemitting CdTe QDs revealed a small red-shifted (~20 nm). Furthermore, The PL of red-emitting naked CdTe QDs was red-shifted much small (less than 10 nm). This phenomenon is ascribed to the change of band gap of CdTe cores
with sizes. The red-shift of PL spectra is attributed to the CdS-like clusters around the core rather than the thickness of the hybrid SiO2 shell.
Preparation of Nested g-C3N4 Fiber Surrounding Graphene Oxide and Its Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Wang Yi-Xin , Chen Min-Nan , Tao Hong
Published: April 2020

g-C3N4 and graphene oxide (GO) are simultaneously introduced into electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers to form a nested structure. By Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), g-C3N4
has been perfectly introduced into the PAN@GO nanofiber membrane and affects the porosity of the fiber itself. Comparison of nested electrospinning PAN/PAN@GO and different proportions of PAN@g-C3N4/PAN@GO nanofibers has a different effect on reducing the concentration
and absorption of rhodamine B (RhB) dye in the visible region. Combined with the advantages of g-C3N4 and GO and the performance of fibers in the photocatalytic process, the optimal nested PAN@g-C3N4/PAN@GO nanofibers were selected. These results
indicate that the nested PAN@g-C3N4/PAN@GO nanofibers with high photocatalytic activity have great potential in the treatment of printing and dyeing wastewater.
A Study of the Effects of pH and Surfactant Addition on Gold Nanoparticle Aggregation
Authors: Basso Caroline Rodrigues , Crulhas Bruno Pereira , Castro Gustavo Rocha , Pedrosa Valber Albuquerque
Published: April 2020

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) can provide a simple, easy-to-use, inexpensive, at hand point-of-care (POC) fast to diagnose; however, AuNPs have the predisposition to form aggregations. Since the nanoparticles stability is an important issue, this article is aiming to study the long-term
stability associated with the development of an immunosensor for clinical diagnosis. Here, we assessed two previous methods commonly described in the literature to prevent the formation of aggregate by studying pH and Tween® 20 (polysorbates) addition as surfactant. AuNPs were characterized
through ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and through analysis in the ImageJ software. We found that the Tween® 20 provided more than stable condition in aqueous solution in comparison to pH dependence. The fabricated
AuNPs were further used to detect dengue virus and demonstrating that its use at pH 7.2 did not maintain reproducibility in the detection of dengue virus after one year. Unlike, the Tween® 20 modified AuNPs that detected dengue virus soon after the synthesis and over the course of one
year demonstrating the high sensitivity of immunosensor. Finally, our result showed excellent dispersity throughout the year when using Tween® 20 to avoid aggregation.
Hydrogen Generation and Pollution Degradation from Wastewater Using TiO2–CuO Nanocomposite
Authors: Koohestani Hassan , Kheilnejad Amirabbas
Published: April 2020

Simultaneous production of hydrogen and degradation of cyanide ion and methyl red dye were successfully accomplished by employing nano-particles of TiO2–CuO under the radiation of UV light. Exploiting composites improves the electron–hole separation and consequently
optimizes photocatalytic processes. Furthermore, the simultaneity of several photocatalytic processes decreases the rate of electron–hole recombination. According to the results, more hydrogen was produced in lower pHs. Up to the initial concentration of 0.3 and 0.8 mol/L for methyl
red and cyanide ion respectively, the presence of pollutants increased hydrogen production remarkably, while in more concentrations, hydrogen production was independent of concentrations. The rate of hydrogen production decreased with the pass of time which is due to the consumption of holes
by pollutants’ molecules, and the effective participation of the electrons in hydrogen production. Accordingly, after 210 min, the amounts of cyanide ion and methyl red declined and the hydrogen production rate decreased from from 17–22 μmol H2/min to 2–3
μmol H2/min.
Enhanced Antibacterial Photocatalytic Activity of Porous Few-Layer C3N4
Authors: Song Guoxin , Wang Longwei , Yang Ruiqi , Ji Yanchen , Zhang Ruitong , Yang Ling , Ding Longhua , Wang Aizhu , Ren Na , Yu Xin
Published: April 2020

Nowadays, antibacterial photocatalytic activity of semiconductors has attracted great attention due to its excellent stability, good biocompatibility and no disinfection byproducts. Herein, a porous few-layer C3N4 was successfully fabricated via a simple and low-cost
bottom-up method. The asprepared porous few-layer C3N4 exhibits large specific surface areas, which is about 4.8 times than bulk C3N4. Under the light (<430 nm) irradiation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) (singlet oxygen (1O2),
hydroxyl radicals (·OH), and superoxide (O·−2)) can be generated. The porous few-layer C3N4 was used as an antibacterial agent to kill gram-positive bacterium S. Aureus with an anibacterial efficiency up to 99.7%. The log removal
rate of the porous few-layer C3N4 is more than 50 times than the bulk C3N4. The material shows a potential application in water purification and antibacterial photocatalytic therapy.
Enhanced Permeability and Removal Efficiency for Phenol and Perfluorooctane Sulphonate by a Multifunctional CNT/Al2O3 Membrane with Electrochemical Assistance
Authors: Sun Menghan , Cui Mingrui , Wang Yibo , Fan Xinfei , Song Chengwen
Published: April 2020

Membrane separation is recognized to be a promising technology for addressing water crisis. Unfortunately, the emergence of membrane fouling and low removal efficiency makes it unattractive for practical application. Herein, an electrochemical multifunctional CNT/Al2O3
membrane was designed coupled multiple electrochemical functions with pore sieving, which could maintain high permeability and achieve good removal efficiency simultaneously, even for those molecules with size smaller than pore size. The multifunctional CNT/Al2O3 membrane
possessing a pore size of 140 nm and pure water flux of 869.6 L · m-2 · h-1 · bar-1 was prepared. The results show that the multifunctional CNT/Al2O3 membrane exhibited a good anti-fouling properties for both bio-fouling
and chemical fouling under electrochemical assistance with a permeability 3.6 and 1.5 times higher than those of CNT/Al2O3 membrane alone for the treatment of E. coli and humic acid, respectively. In addition, the CNT/Al2O3 membrane with electrochemical
assistance also shows a high removal efficiency for the treatment of perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS) and phenol whose sizes are smaller than pore size. As for the treatment of surface water, it also presented a good performance. Finally, the regeneration of the membrane was investigated
and the fouled membrane was reused through an electrochemical assisted back-wash method.
Panels of eco-friendly materials for architectural acoustics
Authors: Fontoba-Ferrándiz J , Juliá-Sanchis E , Crespo Amorós JE , Segura Alcaraz J , Gadea Borrell JM , Parres García F
Published: April 2020

The objective of this work is to study the acoustic and mechanical properties of environmentally friendly materials manufactured through the process of resin infusion made from different types of fibres: some are biodegradable obtained from renewable resources and others from recycled textile waste. The materials studied are composed of fibres of jute, hemp, coconut, biaxial linen and textile waste. The modulus of elasticity and the airborne sound insulation are determined through dynamic and acoustic tests, respectively. The behaviour of these innovative materials is compared to some traditional materials commonly used in architectural acoustics. The acoustic study of these environmentally friendly materials is carried out considering them as light elements of a single layer for their application to insulation of walls. The results are compared to plasterboards, considered as the most commonly used light material in buildings for airborne sound insulation. In conclusion, these materials are a real and effective alternative to the traditional composites of synthetic matrices and reinforcements of glass fibres and there is a reduction in the production cost compared to the usual porous synthetic media that have expensive production processes.
The Use of Giant Bilobed Flaps for Tissue Defect Reconstruction After Temporal Bone and Ear Resection
Authors: Zwierz Aleksander , Masna Krystyna , Burduk Paweł
Published: April 2020

The aim of this article was to feature the use of giant bilobed flaps in surgical reconstruction after total or subtotal petrosectomy in oncology cases. The Esser technique was renewed and adopted for coverage huge skin loss. The authors reported 4 cases illustrated pre- and postoperative photography and intraoperative planning and schema. Good coverage and healing with no need for use of free tissue transfer or skin expanders or skin grafts was obtained. In authors’ opinion, the cosmetic effect was acceptable. Surgical times of operation were significantly shorter.
Solitary neurofibroma of the heart
Authors: Li Pei Jing , Sun Jing Ping , Wang Xiao Yan , Li Chun , Liu Zheng , Xia Hong Mei , Xu Ya Li , Gao Yun Hua
Published: April 2020

Solitary neurofibroma of the heart is extremely unusual. Few reports of neurofibroma in the left ventricle have been published. In this case report, we present the results of transthoracic echocardiography, myocardial contrast echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and histopathologic examination of a patient with a neurofibroma of the heart. The patient had no evidence of any other metastasis or primary tumor in other organs, which is clinically rare.
Cortical morphological changes in chronic migraine in a Taiwanese cohort: Surface- and voxel-based analyses
Authors: Lai Kuan-Lin , Niddam David M , Fuh Jong-Ling , Chen Wei-Ta , Wu Jaw-Ching , Wang Shuu-Jiun
Published: April 2020

Background

Previous voxel- or surface-based morphometric analysis studies have revealed alterations in cortical structure in patients with chronic migraine, yet with inconsistent results. The discrepancies may be derived partly from the sample heterogeneity. Employing both methods in a clinically homogenous group may provide a clearer view.

Methods

Structural MRI data from 30 prevention-naïve patients with chronic migraine without medication overuse headache or a history of major depression and 30 healthy controls were analyzed. Vertex-wise (surface-based) or voxel-wise (voxel-based) linear models were applied, after controlling for age and gender, to investigate between-group differences. Averaged cortical thicknesses and volumes from regions showing group differences were correlated with parameters related to clinical profiles.

Results

Surface-based morphometry showed significantly thinner cortices in the bilateral insular cortex, caudal middle frontal gyrus, precentral gyrus, and parietal lobes in patients with chronic migraine relative to healthy controls. Additionally, the number of migraine days in the month preceding MRI examination was correlated negatively with right insular cortical thickness. Voxel-based morphometry (VBM) did not show any group differences or clinical correlations.

Conclusion

Patients with chronic migraine without medication overuse headache, major depression, or prior preventive treatment had reduced cortical thickness in regions within the pain-processing network. Compared to voxel-based morphometry, surface-based morphometry analysis may be more sensitive to subtle structural differences between healthy controls and patients with chronic migraine.
Numerical simulation of droplet formation in different microfluidic devices
Authors: Hadikhani Pooria , Majidi Sahand , Afshari Asghar
Published: April 2020

This study aims to assess the droplet formation process in microfluidic devices using an all Mach-number multi-phase flow solver. Harten-Lax-van Leer-Contact (HLLC) Riemann solver is implemented for solving the discretized equations while Tangent of Hyperbola for INterface Capturing (THINC) method is applied to reduce the excessive diffusion of the method at the interface. The multi-block strategy is implemented in the flow solver to improve its capability of simulating flows in more complicated, multi-port droplet formation geometries. First, the computational performance of the numerical solver is validated through simulating the benchmark Rayleigh-Taylor instability problem and the droplet formation in a planar flow-focusing geometry. The comparison of numerical results with available analytical/experimental data indicates a precise prediction of flow features. Then, the droplet generation process in coflowing devices with Newtonian liquid is numerically studied. Finally, the shear-thinning effects of the dispersed and continuous phase on the drop formation characteristics are investigated. It is shown that deviation of the continuous phase from Newtonian behavior has a strong impact on droplet size, speed, and generation rate. On the other hand, assuming the dispersed phase as non-Newtonian does not strongly affect the aforementioned properties of the droplet formation regime.
Follicular lymphoma generating in a patient with non-small cell lung cancer following nivolumab discontinuation
Authors: Sengul Samanci Nilay , Yılmaz Umut , Bedir Sahin , Ozgur Yurttas Nurgul , Oruc Kerem , Durak Sahin Zehra , Celik Emir , Toplutas Kubra Nur , Akı Hilal , Eskazan Ahmet Emre , Demirelli Fuat Hulusi
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have demonstrated the benefit for many cancer types, melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, urothelial cancer, renal cell cancer, etc. Especially in advanced non-small cell lung cancer, significant improvement in survival results has been shown.

Case Report

Here, we report a 66-year-old man with lung adenocarcinoma who received nivolumab for 80 cycles. Management and Outcome: Two months after discontinuing nivolumab, he developed follicular lymphoma. Pneumonitis was also accompanied, which was treated with metilprednisolon, but he died due to progressive respiratory failure.

Discussion

Our clinical knowledge with checkpoint inhibitors is increasing day by day, and to the best of our knowledge, this paper presents the first case in the English literature who developed follicular lymphoma after discontinuing nivolumab in non-small cell lung cancer patient.
Crashworthiness analysis and optimization of different configurations multi-layered corrugated sandwich panels under crush loading
Authors: Shu Chengfu , Hou Shujuan , Zhang YX , Luo Yutao
Published: April 2020

Multi-layered corrugated sandwich panels can be made up of different core shapes, different arrangements, the variable height, and variable thickness in every layer. In this paper, the crashworthiness behaviors of multi-layered corrugated sandwich panels with different configurations, which are controlled by these four factors, are analyzed and compared. The optimal configuration is found by adopting orthogonal experimental design and range analysis method. A novel multi-layered corrugated sandwich structure with functionally graded thickness is proposed and studied and is proved to better structural crashworthiness. First, finite element models of multi-layered corrugated sandwich panels are established and validated by experiment. Then, the effect of the four factors with three levels on crashworthiness is analyzed, and we obtain the main factor and the optimal configuration with the maximum specific energy absorption by using orthogonal experimental design and range analysis method. Finally, parametric studies and multi-objectives optimization of the proposed novel multi-layered corrugated sandwich structure with functionally graded thickness are conducted. The optimization is aimed at maximizing the specific energy absorption and minimizing the initial peak force under crush loading, based on the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm and response surface method technique. These findings can provide valuable guidelines for the design of multi-layered corrugated sandwich panels with different configurations under crush loading.
‘It’s quite a complex trail for families now’ – Provider understanding of access to services for Aboriginal children with a disability
Authors: Green Anna , Abbott Penelope , Luckett Tim , Davidson Patricia Mary , Delaney John , Delaney Patricia , Gunasekera Hasantha , DiGiacomo Michelle
Published: April 2020

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children experience a higher prevalence of disability and socio-economic disadvantage than other Australian children. Early intervention from across the health, education and social service sectors is vital for improving outcomes, but families face a number of barriers to service access which impede intervention. This study aimed to inform ways to improve access to services for families of urban-dwelling Aboriginal children with a range of disabilities. A qualitative approach was taken to explore providers’ perceptions of factors that either impeded or enabled families’ access to services. In this research, the term ‘provider’ refers to individuals who are employed in a range of sectors to deliver a service involving assessment or management of an individual with a disability. Semi-structured in-depth interviews with 24 providers were conducted. Data analysis was informed by the general inductive approach and then applied deductively to the candidacy framework to generate additional insights. Candidacy focuses on how potential users access the services they need and acknowledges the joint negotiation between families and providers regarding such access. Our research identified that candidacy was influenced by the historical legacy of colonisation and its ongoing socio-cultural impact on Aboriginal people, as well as funding and current policy directives. Enacting culturally sensitive and meaningful engagement to better understand families’ needs and preferences for support, as well as support for providers to develop their understanding of family contexts, will contribute to facilitating service access for Aboriginal children with a disability.
MiR-203a-3p Inhibits Pancreatic Cancer Cell Proliferation, EMT, and Apoptosis by Regulating SLUG
Authors: An Ning , Zheng Bo
Published: April 2020

Objective:

The aim of the present research is to study the roles of miR-203a-3p on cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition in pancreatic cancer.

Methods:

Transcription profiles were acquired from Gene Expression Omnibus database, which was used to screen out the differentially expressed microRNAs and messenger RNAs in pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer tissues were used to verify the bioinformatics results by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The relationship between miR-203a-3p and SLUG was examined by TargetScan software, dual-luciferase reporter assay, and RNA immunoprecipitation. The Cell Counting Kit-8, wound healing, and transwell assays were conducted to investigate the proliferation, migration, and invasion capability of pancreatic cancer cells, respectively. The expression of epithelial–mesenchymal transition–related proteins was determined by the Western blot assay. Xenograft assay was performed to verify findings from in vitro assays.

Results:

Bioinformatic analysis found that a total of 113 microRNAs and 1749 messenger RNAs expressed differentially in pancreatic cancer tissues. Among these microRNAs, the expression of miR-203a-3p was significantly decreased in both pancreatic cancer tissues and cells. On the other hand, the SLUG expression was remarkably upregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues and cells in comparison with normal tissues and cells. Moreover, TargetScan software, dual-luciferase reporter assay, and RNA immunoprecipitation revealed that SLUG was a target of miR-203a-3p. The upregulation of miR-203a-3p expression inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion ability of pancreatic cancer cells by suppressing the epithelial–mesenchymal transition process via sponging SLUG.

Conclusion:

These findings indicate that downregulation of miR-203a-3p in pancreatic cancer cells leads to high expression of SLUG, which promotes epithelial–mesenchymal transition process and induces cancer progression.
Performance in Collegiate-Level Baseball Players After Elbow Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Swindell Hasani W. , Trofa David P. , Confino Jamie , Sonnenfeld Julian J. , Alexander Frank J. , Ahmad Christopher S.
Published: April 2020

Background:

The increase in ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) elbow reconstructions over the past 20 years has affected younger athletes more than any other age group. Although return to play and postoperative performance have been extensively studied in professional baseball players, outcomes in collegiate baseball players are less known.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to characterize return to play and changes in performance after UCL reconstruction (UCLR) in collegiate baseball players. We hypothesized that collegiate baseball players would have similar return-to-play rates compared with professional athletes and no significant differences in performance compared with matched controls.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Collegiate athletes undergoing UCLR by a single surgeon were identified. Postoperatively, individual collegiate career paths were analyzed through use of publicly available data from team websites, injury reports, and press releases. Data obtained included time to return to competition, number of collegiate seasons played after surgery, total games started and played, seasonal wins, losses, saves, innings played, hits, earned run average (ERA), home runs, shutouts, strikeouts, walks, and walks plus hit per inning pitched (WHIP). The UCLR group was compared with a matched control group of collegiate pitchers without elbow injury.

Results:

Of the 58 collegiate baseball players analyzed (mean ± SD age, 19.95 ± 1.19 years), 84.5% returned to play at the collegiate level. Players returned to competition at 16.98 ± 6.16 months postoperatively and competed for 1.60 ± 0.84 seasons postoperatively. In terms of career longevity, 81.0% of collegiate pitchers either completed their collegiate eligibility or remained on active rosters, and 2 players (4.1%) ultimately played at the professional level after UCLR. Compared with a matched cohort, the UCLR group had no significant differences in collegiate pitching performance statistics after surgery.

Conclusion:

College baseball players returned to play at a rate comparable with the rate published in prior literature on professional pitchers and often completed their collegiate playing eligibility postoperatively. Compared with controls, the UCLR group had no statistically significant differences in pitching performance postoperatively. Further studies are needed to determine the exact reasons why college players retire despite having endured extensive surgical and postoperative rehabilitation processes related to UCLR. Younger populations are experiencing elbow injuries at an increasing rate secondary to increased workloads at the amateur level. As these athletes matriculate into the collegiate ranks, they are at continued risk of sustaining UCL injury, and little explicit information is available on their prospects of return to play and career longevity after UCLR.
Key role of MIF-related neuroinflammation in neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Nasiri Elham , Sankowski Roman , Dietrich Henriette , Oikonomidi Aikaterini , Huerta Patricio T. , Popp Julius , Al-Abed Yousef , Bacher Michael
Published: April 2020

Background

Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) is a potent proinflammatory cytokine that promotes the production of other immune mediators. MIF is produced by most cell types in the brain including microglia, astrocytes and neurons. Enhanced expression of MIF might contribute to the persistent activation of glial, chronic neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Here, we investigated the effect of MIF on inflammatory markers and spatial learning in a mouse model of sporadic AD and on tau pathology in AD patients.

Methods

We examined the effects of MIF deficiency and pharmacological MIF inhibition in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, quantitative PCR and ELISA were used to assess cytokine production of STZ-treated glial cells. In vivo, C57BL/6 mice were subjected to intracerebroventricular streptozotocin injection (3 mg/kg, ICV-STZ). Neuroinflammation and contextual learning performance were assessed using quantitative PCR and fear conditioning, respectively. Pharmacological MIF inhibition was achieved with intraperitoneal injections of ISO-1 (daily, IP, 20 mg/kg in 5% DMSO in 0.9% NaCl) for 4 weeks following ICV-STZ injection. The findings from ISO-1 treated mice were confirmed in MIF knockout C57BL/6. To assess the role of MIF in human AD, cerebrospinal fluid levels of MIF and hyperphosphorylated tau were measured using ELISA.

Results

Administration ICV-STZ resulted in hippocampal dependent cognitive impairment. MIF inhibition with ISO-1 significantly improved the STZ-induced impairment in contextual memory performance, indicating MIF-related inflammation as a major contributor to ICV-STZ-induced memory deficits. Furthermore, inhibition of the MIF resulted in reduced cytokine production in vitro and in vivo.

In human subjects with AD at early clinical stages, cerebrospinal fluid levels of MIF were increased in comparison with age-matched controls, and correlated with biomarkers of tau hyper-phosphorylation and neuronal injury hinting at MIF levels as a potential biomarker for early-stage AD.

Conclusions

The present study indicates the key role of MIF in controlling the chronic cytokine release in neuroinflammation related to tau hyperphosphorylation, neurodegeneration, and clinical manifestations of AD, suggesting the potential of MIF inhibition as therapeutic strategy to slow down neurodegeneration and clinical disease progression.
Widely Tunable Single/Dual RF Signal Generation by a Monolithic Three-Section DFB Laser
Authors: Huang Chung-Ping , Huang Yu-Ming , Shih Hsiang-Yun , Hsiao Fu-Chun , Chen Chun-Hong , Hsu Shun-Chieh , Lin Chien-Chung
Published: April 2020

A three-section distributed feedback laser with a 2.5 InP/air pair of distributed Bragg reflectors (DBRs) was fabricated and analyzed in terms of its microwave generation capability. A widely tunable single radio frequency (RF) signal can be detected using optical heterodyning, and the tuning range is from 2 to 45 GHz. The incorporation of the third section provides an opportunity to present the dual RF operation when three emission peaks are near to each other in the wavelength domain. The proposed design provides a 21.3% enhancement in the RF tuning range compared with the range of a two-section laser (35.29 GHz versus 42.81 GHz). The compactness of the proposed device can be useful for future radio-over-fiber applications.
Dispersal and genetic structure in a tropical small mammal, the Bornean tree shrew (Tupaia longipes), in a fragmented landscape along the Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Brunke Jennifer , Russo Isa-Rita M. , Orozco-terWengel Pablo , Zimmermann Elke , Bruford Michael W. , Goossens Benoit , Radespiel Ute
Published: April 2020

Background

Constraints in migratory capabilities, such as the disruption of gene flow and genetic connectivity caused by habitat fragmentation, are known to affect genetic diversity and the long-term persistence of populations. Although negative population trends due to ongoing forest loss are widespread, the consequence of habitat fragmentation on genetic diversity, gene flow and genetic structure has rarely been investigated in Bornean small mammals. To fill this gap in knowledge, we used nuclear and mitochondrial DNA markers to assess genetic diversity, gene flow and the genetic structure in the Bornean tree shrew,Tupaia longipes,that inhabits forest fragments of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, Sabah. Furthermore, we used these markers to assess dispersal regimes in male and femaleT. longipes.

Results

In addition to the Kinabatangan River, a known barrier for dispersal in tree shrews, the heterogeneous landscape along the riverbanks affected the genetic structure in this species. Specifically, while in larger connected forest fragments along the northern riverbank genetic connectivity was relatively undisturbed, patterns of genetic differentiation and the distribution of mitochondrial haplotypes in a local scale indicated reduced migration on the strongly fragmented southern riverside. Especially, oil palm plantations seem to negatively affect dispersal inT. longipes.Clear sex-biased dispersal was not detected based on relatedness, assignment tests, and haplotype diversity.

Conclusion

This study revealed the importance of landscape connectivity to maintain migration and gene flow between fragmented populations, and to ensure the long-term persistence of species in anthropogenically disturbed landscapes.
Genetic factors in rotator cuff pathology: potential influence of col 5A1 polymorphism in outcomes of rotator cuff repair
Authors: Petrillo Stefano , Longo Umile Giuseppe , Margiotti Katia , Candela Vincenzo , Fusilli Caterina , Rizzello Giacomo , De Luca Alessandro , Denaro Vincenzo
Published: April 2020

Background

Investigations in genetics have provided valuable information about the correlation between gene variants and tendinopathy. Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms of COL5A1 gene are reported to be involved in Achilles tendinopathy, chronic degenerative tendon changes at the elbow, and other tendinopathies. The influence of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms of COL5A1 was previously analyzed in rotator cuff disease with confounding results. Moreover, the rs12722 polymorphism in COL5A1 gene has been implicated in the aetiology of musculoskeletal soft tissue injuries in several association studies. This study aims to analyse the possible influence of rs12722 polymorphism in COL5A1 in the outcomes of rotator cuff repair.

Methods

Seventy-nine patients were included in the study. DNA was extracted from 1.2 ml of venous blood and genotyped for COL5A1 SNPs rs12722. Rotator cuff muscle strength and range of motion (ROM) in anterior elevation, external and internal rotation of the shoulder were evaluated.

Results

Patients presenting COL5A1 SNP rs12722 CC showed a ROM of passive external rotation statistically significantly higher compared to patients with CT genotype and TT genotype.

Conclusions

COL5A1 SNP rs12722 may influence the functional outcomes of RCRs, even though further studies are required to confirm these preliminary results.
Eosinophilic peritonitis and nephrotic syndrome in Kimura’s disease: a case report and literature review
Authors: Yu Bingxin , Yang Zhikai , Song Di , Wang Zi , Xu Damin , Wang Suxia , Nong Lin , Zhou Fude , Dong Jie
Published: April 2020

Background

Eosinophilic peritonitis is a relatively rare entity. Kimura’s disease is a rare chronic inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology, characterized by subcutaneous nodules mainly in the head and neck region, regional lymphadenopathy and occasional involvement of kidney. There is currently no report of eosinophilic peritonitis in Kimura’s disease.

Case presentation

A 44-year-old Chinese man presented with abdominal distention, nausea, vomiting and edema in lower limbs for 1 month. Laboratory data showed elevated eosinophils in peripheral blood and ascites, nephrotic syndrome with progressively renal dysfunction, and elevated IgE. Ultrasonography of lymph nodes showed multiple lymphadenopathy in bilateral inguinal regions. Surgical excision was performed for one of the enlarged lymph nodes and histopathology revealed diagnosis of Kimura’s disease. Renal biopsy indicated focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and acute tubulointerstitial nephritis with infiltration of eosinophils in renal interstitium. The patient was prescribed with oral prednisolone therapy (30 mg/day), and underwent continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). The peripheral and peritoneal eosinophil count decreased rapidly and normalized within 2 days. Forty-five days after prednisolone therapy, partial remission of nephrotic syndrome and decrease of serum creatinine were achieved while peritoneal dialysis dosage had decreased. Inguinal lymph nodes gradually shrunk in size. The overall conditions remain stable afterwards.

Conclusions

This rare case highlighted the clinical conundrum of a patient presenting with eosinophilic peritonitis, lymphadenopathy, nephrotic syndrome and renal failure associated with Kimura’s disease. The remarkable eosinophilia, pathology of lymph node and kidney, as well as significant response to steroids should guide towards the diagnosis.
Oral nystatin prophylaxis to prevent systemic fungal infection in very low birth weight preterm infants: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rundjan Lily , Wahyuningsih Retno , Oeswadi Chrissela Anindita , Marsogi Miske , Purnamasari Ayu
Published: April 2020

Background

Systemic fungal infection (SFI) is one of leading causes of morbidity and mortality in very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm infants. Because early diagnosis of SFI is challenging due to nonspecific manifestations, prophylaxis becomes crucial. This study aimed to assess effectiveness of oral nystatin as an antifungal prophylaxis to prevent SFI in VLBW preterm infants.

Methods

A prospective, open-labelled, randomized controlled trial was performed in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of an academic hospital in Indonesia. Infants with a gestational age ≤ 32 weeks and/or birth weight of ≤ 1500 g with risk factors for fungal infection were assessed for eligibility and randomized to either an intervention group (nystatin) or control group. The intervention group received 1 ml of oral nystatin three times a day, and the control group received a dose of 1 ml of sterile water three times a day. The incidence of fungal colonization and SFI were observed and evaluated during the six-week study period. Overall mortality rates and nystatin-related adverse drug reactions during the study period were also documented.

Results

A total of 95 patients were enrolled. The incidence of fungal colonization was lower among infants in nystatin group compared to those in control group (29.8 and 56.3%, respectively; relative risk 0.559; 95% confidence interval 0.357–0.899; p-value = 0.009). There were five cases of SFI, all of which were found in the control group (p-value = 0.056). There was no difference in overall mortality between the two groups. No adverse drug reactions were noted during the study period.

Conclusions

Nystatin is effective and safe as an antifungal prophylactic medication in reducing colonization rates in the study population. Whilst the use of nystatin showed a potential protective effect against SFI among VLBW preterm infants, there was no statistical significant difference in SFI rates between groups.

Trial registration

NCT03390374. Registered 4 January 2018 - Retrospectively registered.
Attitudes towards psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in psychiatric patients with and without migration background
Authors: Brandl Eva J. , Dietrich Nora , Mell Nicoleta , Winkler Johanna G. , Gutwinski Stefan , Bretz H. Joachim , Schouler-Ocak Meryam
Published: April 2020

Background

Sociodemographic factors, attitude towards treatment and acculturation may be important factors influencing the decision of immigrants to seek and maintain psychiatric treatment. A better understanding of these factors may significantly improve treatment adherence and outcome in these patients. Therefore, we investigated factors associated the attitude towards psychotherapy and medication in a sample of psychiatric outpatients with and without migration background.

Methods

N = 381 patients in a psychiatric outpatient unit offering specialized treatment for migrants were included in this study. Attitude towards psychotherapy was assessed using the Questionnaire on Attitudes Toward Psychotherapeutic Treatment, attitude towards medication with the Drug Attitude Inventory-10. Acculturation, symptom load and sociodemographic variables were assessed in a general questionnaire. Statistical analyses included analyses of covariance and hierarchical regression.

Results

Patients of Turkish and Eastern European origin reported a significantly more positive attitude towards medication than patients without migration background. When controlling for sociodemographic and clinical variables, we did not observe any significant differences in attitude towards psychotherapy. Acculturation neither influenced the attitude towards psychotherapy nor towards medication.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that sociodemographic and clinical factors may be more relevant for patients´ attitudes towards treatment than acculturation. Considering these factors in psychiatric treatment of patients with migration background may improve treatment outcome and adherence.
Integrated approach in the control and management of skin neglected tropical diseases in three health districts of Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Koffi Aboa Paul , Yao Théodore Ange Kouakou , Barogui Yves Thierry , Diez Gabriel , Djakeaux Simplice , Zahiri Marie Hélène , Sopoh Ghislain Emmanuel , Santos Silvia , Asiedu Kingsley Bampoe , Johnson Roch Christian , Assé Henri
Published: April 2020

Background

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) comprise 20 communicable diseases that are prevalent in rural poor and remote communities with less access to the health system. For effective and efficient control, the WHO recommends that affected countries implement integrated control interventions that take into account the different co-endemic NTDs in the same community. However, implementing these integrated interventions involving several diseases with different etiologies, requiring different control approaches and driven by different vertical programs, remains a challenge. We report here the results and lessons learned from a pilot test of this integrated approach based on integrated screening of skin diseases in three co-endemic health districts of Côte d’Ivoire, a West African country endemic for Buruli ulcer, leprosy and yaw.

Method

This cross-sectional study took place from April 2016 to March 2017 in 3 districts of Côte d’Ivoire co-endemic for BU, leprosy and yaws. The study was carried out in 6 stages: identification of potentially co-endemic communities; stakeholder training; social mobilization; mobile medical consultations; case detection and management; and a review meeting.

Results

We included in the study all patients with skin signs and symptoms at the screening stage who voluntarily accepted screening.

In total, 2310 persons screened had skin lesions at the screening stage. Among them, 07 cases were diagnosed with Buruli ulcer. There were 30 leprosy cases and 15 yaws detected. Other types of ulcerations and skin conditions have been identified and represent the majority of cases detected. We learned from this pilot experience that integration can be successfully implemented in co-endemic communities in Côte d’Ivoire. Health workers are motivated and available to implement integrated interventions instead of interventions focused on a single disease. However, it is essential to provide capacity building, a minimum of drugs and consumables for the care of the patients identified, as well as follow-up of identified patients, including those with other skin conditions.

Conclusions

The results of this study show that the integration of activities can be successfully implemented in co-endemic communities under the condition of staff capacity building and minimal care of identified patients.
An exploratory study of different definitions and thresholds for lumbar disc degeneration assessed by MRI and their associations with low back pain using data from a cohort study of a general population
Authors: Dragsbæk Line , Kjaer Per , Hancock Mark , Jensen Tue Secher
Published: April 2020

Background

Lumbar disc degeneration seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is defined as loss of signal intensity and/or disc height, alone or in combination with other MRI findings. The MRI findings and thresholds used to define disc degeneration vary in the literature, and their associations with low back pain (LBP) remain uncertain.

Objective

To explore how various thresholds of lumbar disc degeneration alter the association between disc degeneration and self-reported LBP.

Methods

An exploratory, cross-sectional cohort study of a general population. Participants in the cohort ‘Backs-on-Funen’ had MRI scans and completed questionnaires about LBP at ages 41, 45 and 49 years. The MRI variables, signal intensity (Grades 0–3) and disc height (Grades 0–3), were dichotomised at different thresholds. Logistic regression analyses were used to determine associations. Arbitrarily, a difference in odds ratio (OR) of > 0.5 between thresholds was considered clinically relevant. Receiver Operating Characteristic curves were used to investigate differences between diagnostic values at each threshold.

Results

At age 41, the difference in ORs between signal loss and LBP exceeded 0.5 between the thresholds of ≥2 (OR = 2.02) and = 3 (OR = 2.57). Difference in area under the curves (AUC) was statistically significant (p = 0.02). At ages 45 and 49, the difference in ORs exceeded 0.5 between the thresholds of ≥2 and = 3, but the differences between AUC were not statistically significant. At age 41, the difference in ORs between disc height loss and LBP at the thresholds of ≥1 (OR = 1.44) and ≥ 2 (OR = 2.53) exceeded 0.5. Differences in AUC were statistically significant (p = 0.004). At age 49, differences in ORs exceeded 0.5 (OR = 2.49 at the ≥1 threshold, 1.84 at ≥2 and 0.89 at =3). Differences between AUC were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

The results suggest that the thresholds used to define the presence of lumbar disc degeneration influence how strongly it is associated with LBP. Thresholds at more severe grades of disc signal and disc height loss were more strongly associated with LBP at age 41, but thresholds at moderate grades of disc degeneration were most strongly associated with LBP at ages 45 and 49.
In situ efficacy of an experimental toothpaste on enamel rehardening and prevention of demineralisation: a randomised, controlled trial
Authors: Creeth Jonathan E. , Burnett Gary R. , Souverain Audrey , Gomez-Pereira Paola , Zero Domenick T. , Lippert Frank , Hara Anderson T.
Published: April 2020

Background

A novel sodium fluoride toothpaste containing lactate ion and polyvinylmethylether-maleic anhydride has been developed to promote enamel remineralisation and resistance to demineralisation. In this in situ study, we compared this toothpaste (‘Test’) with a stannous fluoride-zinc citrate (SnF2-Zn) toothpaste (‘Reference’) (both 1100–1150 ppm fluoride) and a fluoride-free toothpaste (‘Placebo’) using an enamel dental erosion-rehardening model.

Methods

In each phase of this randomised, investigator-blind, crossover study, participants wore palatal appliances holding bovine enamel specimens with erosive lesions. They brushed their natural teeth with either the Test, Reference or Placebo toothpastes, then swished the resultant slurry. Specimens were removed at 2 h and 4 h post-brushing and exposed to an in vitro acid challenge. Surface microhardness was measured at each stage; enamel fluoride uptake was measured after in situ rehardening. Surface microhardness recovery, relative erosion resistance, enamel fluoride uptake and acid resistance ratio were calculated at both timepoints.

Results

Sixty two randomised participants completed the study. Test toothpaste treatment yielded significantly greater surface microhardness recovery, relative erosion resistance and enamel fluoride uptake values than either Reference or Placebo toothpastes after 2 and 4 h. The acid resistance ratio value for Test toothpaste was significantly greater than either of the other treatments after 2 h; after 4 h, it was significantly greater versus Placebo only. No treatment-related adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

In this in situ model, the novel-formulation sodium fluoride toothpaste enhanced enamel rehardening and overall protection against demineralisation compared with a fluoride-free toothpaste and a marketed SnF2-Zn toothpaste.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT03296072; registered September 28, 2017.