bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome due to a Novel Compound Heterozygous KCNQ1 Mutation in a Chinese Family
Authors: Qiu Yue , Chen Sen , Wu Xia , Zhang Wen-Juan , Xie Wen , Jin Yuan , Xie Le , Xu Kai , Bai Xue , Zhang Hui-Min , Liu Xiao-Zhou , Wang Xiao-Hui , Sun Yu , Kong Wei-Jia
Published: May 2020

Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome (JLNS) is a rare but severe autosomal recessive disease characterized by profound congenital deafness and a prolonged QTc interval (greater than 500 milliseconds) in the ECG waveforms. The prevalence of JLNS is about 1/1000000 to 1/200000 around the world. However, exceed 25% of JLNS patients suffered sudden cardiac death with kinds of triggers containing anesthesia. Approximately 90% of JLNS cases are caused by KCNQ1 gene mutations. Here, using next-generation sequencing (NGS), we identified a compound heterozygosity for two mutations c.1741A>T (novel) and c.477+5G>A (known) in KCNQ1 gene as the possible pathogenic cause of JLNS, which suggested a high risk of cardiac events in a deaf child. The hearing of this patient improved significantly with the help of cochlear implantation (CI). But life-threatening arrhythmias occurred with a trigger of anesthesia after the end of the CI surgery. Our findings extend the KCNQ1 gene mutation spectrum and contribute to the management of deaf children diagnosed with JLNS for otolaryngologists (especially cochlear implant teams).
Shrinkage and Strength Properties of Coal Gangue Ceramsite Lightweight Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Wang Yunsen , Qiu Jingping , Zeng Chao
Published: May 2020

It is a promising and effective method for waste treatment by using coal gangue to make lightweight aggregate concrete. However, lightweight aggregate concrete with low‐density coal gangue ceramsite is prone to cracking during volume shrinkage, which limits its application in the construction industry. In an attempt to resolve the problem of cracking in shrinkage, this study investigated the effect of prewetting time and shrinkage reducing agents on shrinkage volume and concrete strength through a series of concrete shrinkage and strength tests. The experimental results show that shrinkage volume reduced at a prewetting time of 12 hrs or with a 2% addition of D‐230 polyether amine reductant. With the optimal conditions of 12 hrs prewetting time and 2% addition of the reductant, the concrete shrinkage volume significantly decreased with a negligible impact on its strength. Appropriate amount of shrinkage reducing agent and adjustment of prewetting time of coal gangue ceramsite are necessary to reduce the shrinkage rate and improve the stability of the specimen. This is of great significance to wide application of lightweight aggregate concrete with coal gangue ceramsite.
Nonlinear Dynamics of a Duffing-Like Negative Stiffness Oscillator: Modeling and Experimental Characterization
Authors: Anastasio D. , Fasana A. , Garibaldi L. , Marchesiello S.
Published: May 2020

In this paper, a negative stiffness oscillator is modelled and tested to exploit its nonlinear dynamical characteristics. The oscillator is part of a device designed to improve the current collection quality in railway overhead contact lines, and it acts like an asymmetric double-well Duffing system. Thus, it exhibits two stable equilibrium positions plus an unstable one, and the oscillations can either be bounded around one stable point (small oscillations) or include all the three positions (large oscillations). Depending on the input amplitude, the oscillator can exhibit linear and nonlinear dynamics and chaotic motion as well. Furthermore, its design is asymmetrical, and this plays a key role in its dynamic response, as the two natural frequencies associated with the two stable positions differ from each other. The first purpose of this study is to understand the dynamical behavior of the system in the case of linear and nonlinear oscillations around the two stable points and in the case of large oscillations associated with a chaotic motion. To accomplish this task, the device is mounted on a shaking table and it is driven with several levels of excitations and with both harmonic and random inputs. Finally, the nonlinear coefficients associated with the nonlinearities of the system are identified from the measured data.
The COD Removal of Lime and Subsequent Acid Pretreated Partially Stabilised Leachate via Granular-Activated Carbon
Authors: Kinidi Lennevey , Salleh Shanti Faridah
Published: May 2020

Background. This paper investigated the effectiveness of lime treatment and subsequent acid precipitation (using H2SO4) as a pretreatment of partially stabilised leachate. This study obtained high removal efficiencies (>70%) from the lime and acid pretreated partially stabilised leachate. The treatment of this wastewater with 10 g/L dosage of optimum lime (pH 12) at 25°C had led to the 41% COD elimination in the initial stages of pretreatment. Subsequent pH adjustment using 1 N sulfuric acid and granular-activated carbon adsorption in general revealed more than 92% removal of the 4 g/L of carbon dosage. Therefore, the results revealed that the adsorption of COD on the GAC stemmed from the kinetics rate of the pseudo-second-order.
Analyzing Interactions between Japanese Ports and the Maritime Silk Road Based on Complex Networks
Authors: Hu Zhi-Hua , Liu Chan-Juan , Tae-Woo Lee Paul
Published: May 2020

This article considers how the Japanese ports interact with the ports of China and along the 21st century Maritime Silk Road (MSR) while they are embedded in the global port network, especially in the context of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. At a port level, it primarily uses connectivity analysis to analyze the port relations and significances in the maritime network. In contrast, at the network level, it applies the methods from network sciences to analyze the significances of these maritime networks and the interactions among the maritime networks of Japan, China, and MSR. This article extracts a large-scale maritime network from ports and vessels’ profiles and data of vessels’ Automatic Identification System (AIS). It then examines the relations among the networks (including Japan, China, MSR, and global ports) after defining the maritime networks, network generation schemes, and port network analysis tools. Based on the analysis results and findings, this study draws some implications for regional ports and shipping development and the global supply network.
Colonic Angiosarcoma Arising in Association with Amyloid Deposits
Authors: Said Samar , Graham Rondell P. , Wu Tsung-Teh , Yasir Saba , Zhang Lizhi , Folpe Andrew L.
Published: May 2020

Angiosarcoma of the colon is rare, as is colonic amyloidosis. To our knowledge, there have been no reported cases of angiosarcoma arising in association with amyloid deposition. Herein, we described a case of 77-year-old man who presented with hematochezia, and a sigmoid mass was found on colonoscopy. Histologic examination of the resected specimen showed extensive nodular deposition of AL-lambda amyloid material in the colonic wall, as well as high-grade angiosarcoma which was closely intermingled with the amyloid deposits. While the occurrence of both colonic amyloidosis and angiosarcoma in this patient may represent pure coincidence, given the intimate association of the angiosarcoma and the amyloid deposition and the rarity of both of these lesions, we hypothesize that angiosarcoma could be secondary to amyloid deposition.
Application of Modified Sliding Anastomosis in the Repair of Aortic Coarctation
Authors: Chen Wangping , Fan Chengming , Tang Shiyuan , Zhou Wenwu , Iroegbu Chukwuemeka Daniel , Li Jiarong , Wu Xiaoming , Yang Jinfu
Published: May 2020

Objectives. To evaluate the early and midterm results of a modified sliding anastomosis technique in patients with aortic coarctation. Materials and Methods. In this study, we reported a new repair method and compared the early and midterm outcome(s) with a conventional surgical approach for the management of patients with aortic coarctation. Forty‐eight aortic coarctation patients with a narrowed segment length longer than 2 cm were operated at our department’s pediatric surgical division. Excision of the coarctation and end‐to‐end anastomosis was carried out in twenty‐five patients (control group). In contrast, a modified sliding technique was used for twenty‐three cases in the observation group. Other accompanying cardiac anomalies simultaneously repaired included ventricular septal defect and patent ductus arteriosus. All patients received 1.5‐10 years of postoperative echocardiographic follow‐up. Results. This is a retrospective study carried out between January 2005 and June 2018. The study population consisted of forty‐eight patients, which included twenty‐six male and twenty‐two female patients, with an average age of 5.2 ± 1.9 months (range, 28 days to 1 year). There was no mortality. The operative time, the number of intercostal artery disconnection, the drainage volume, and arm‐leg systolic pressure gradient postoperation were less in the observation group as compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Also, cases with an anastomotic pressure gradient exceeding 10 mmHg during follow‐up were less in the observation group as compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The postoperative complications encountered were chylothorax (control group 2 cases vs. observation group 0) and pulmonary atelectasis (control group 4 cases vs. observation group 1). They all, however, recovered after conservative treatment. Three patients in the control group underwent balloon angioplasty (reintervention) postoperative 2‐4 years due to an increase in the anastomotic pressure gradient (>20 mmHg). After reintervention, the anastomotic pressure gradient reduced to 14 mmHg, 15 mmHg, and 17 mmHg, respectively. Conclusions. For long segment aortic coarctation patients (longer than 2 cm), the use of the modified sliding anastomotic technique effectively helps to retain more autologous tissues, enlarge the diameter of the anastomosis, and decrease anastomotic tension and vascular injury. Therefore, this technique provides a new idea for the surgical treatment of aortic coarctations.
Noninvasive Prediction of TERT Promoter Mutations in High‐Grade Glioma by Radiomics Analysis Based on Multiparameter MRI
Authors: Tian Hongan , Wu Hui , Wu Guangyao , Xu Guobin
Published: May 2020

Objectives. To investigate the predictors of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutations in adults suffered from high‐grade glioma (HGG) through radiomics analysis, develop a noninvasive approach to evaluate TERT promoter mutations. Methods. 126 adult patients with HGG (88 in the training cohort and 38 in the validation cohort) were retrospectively enrolled. Totally 5064 radiomics features were, respectively, extracted from three VOIs (necrosis, enhanced, and edema) in MRI. Firstly, an optimal radiomics signature (Radscore) was established based on LASSO regression. Secondly, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate important potential variables as predictors of TERT promoter mutations. Besides, multiparameter models were established and evaluated. Eventually, an optimal model was visualized as radiomics nomogram for clinical evaluations. Results. 6 radiomics features were selected to build Radscore signature through LASSO regression. Among them, 5 were from necrotic VOIs and 1 was from enhanced ones. With univariate and multivariate analysis, necrotic volume percentages of core (CNV), Age, Cho/Cr, Lac, and Radscore were significantly higher in TERTm than in TERTw (p < 0.05). 4 models were built in our study. Compared with Model B (Age, Cho/Cr, Lac, and Radscore), Model A (Age, Cho/Cr, Lac, Radscore, and CNV) has a larger AUC in both training (0.955 vs. 0.917, p = 0.049) and validation (0.889 vs. 0.868, p = 0.039) cohorts. It also has higher performances in net reclassification improvement (NRI), integrated discrimination improvement (IDI), and decision curve analysis (DCA) evaluation. Conclusively, Model A was visualized as a radiomics nomogram. Calibration curve shows a good agreement between estimated and actual probabilities. Conclusions. Age, Cho/Cr, Lac, CNV, and Radscore are important indicators for TERT promoter mutation predictions in HGG. Tumor necrosis seems to be closely related to TERT promoter mutations. Radiomics nomogram based on multiparameter MRI and CNV has higher prediction accuracies.
Bioactive Components and Health Benefits of Saskatoon Berry
Authors: Zhao Lunan , Huang Fei , Hui Amy Leung , Shen Garry X.
Published: May 2020

In response to the recent rise in numbers of diabetes patients, many treatments have been developed; but currently, oral antihyperglycemic agents and insulin are still the main clinical treatments. Since current drugs have limitations and harmful side effects, research in alternative treatments has been sought. This article reviews recent research updates of Saskatoon berries (SB), covering its background information, its main active ingredients, its structure, and its function. Flavonoid compounds in Saskatoon berries, in particular flavanol, anthocyanin, and proanthocyanin, possess anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antidiabetes impacts. The current review synthesizes the latest research on the health benefits of Saskatoon berry in a variety of domains. With further research, SB has the potential to help treat and prevent diabetes in the future.
p.Gln318X and p.Val281Leu as the Major Variants of CYP21A2 Gene in Children with Idiopathic Premature Pubarche
Authors: Soveizi Mahdieh , Mahdieh Nejat , Setoodeh Aria , Sayarifard Fatemeh , Abbasi Farzaneh , Bose Himangshu S. , Rabbani Bahareh , Rabbani Ali
Published: May 2020

Premature pubarche (PP) is the appearance of sexual hair in children before puberty. The PP phenotype may attribute to nonclassic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NC-CAH). In this study, we investigated the role of CYP21A2 gene variants in patients with PP in the Iranian population. Forty patients (13 males and 27 females), clinically diagnosed with PP, were analyzed for molecular testing of CYP21A2 gene variants. Direct sequencing was performed for the samples. Also, gene dosage analysis was performed for the cases. Fourteen patients (35%) had a mutation of p.Gln318X and p.Val281Leu, out of which 10% had regulatory variants. Approximately 10% of the patients were homozygous (NC-CAH). 78.5% (11/14) of patients had trimodular RCCX of which 5 patients had two copies of CYP21A1P pseudogene. The prevalence of p.Val281Leu was higher than p.Gln318X in PP patients. In conclusion, CYP21A2 variant detection has implications in the genetic diagnosis of PP phenotype. The genetic characterization of the CYP21A2 gene is important for characterizing the variable phenotype of carriers and genetic counseling of PP and NC-CAH patients.
Lactobacillus plantarum And Inulin: Therapeutic Agents to Enhance Cardiac Ob Receptor Expression and Suppress Cardiac Apoptosis in Type 2 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Sefidgari-Abrasi Safa , Karimi Pouran , Roshangar Leila , Morshedi Mohammad , Bavafa-Valenlia Khadijeh , Saghafi-Asl Maryam , Mohiti Sara , Rahimiyan-Heravan Marziyeh
Published: May 2020

Background. T2DM may cause increased levels of oxidative stress and cardiac apoptosis through elevated blood glucose. The present study investigated the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) as a probiotic strain and inulin as a prebiotic supplement on cardiac oxidative stress and apoptotic markers in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats. Methods. A high-fat diet and a low dose of streptozotocin were used to induce type 2 diabetes. The rats were divided into six groups which were supplemented with L. plantarum, inulin, or their combination for 8 weeks. Results. The results showed improved activity of cardiac antioxidant parameters including total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) (P<0.001, P<0.01, and P<0.01, respectively) and decreased level of cardiac malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration (P<0.05). These changes were accompanied with increased protein expression of cardiac obesity receptor (Ob-R) (P=0.05) and reduced apoptotic markers such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), Fas ligand (FasL), and caspase proteins (P<0.001, P=0.003, and P<0.01, respectively) in T2DM rats after concurrent L. plantarum and inulin supplementation. Moreover, a remarkable correlation of cardiac Ob-R and oxidative stress parameters with cardiac apoptotic markers was observed (P<0.01). Conclusion. The concurrent use of L. plantarum and inulin seems to be beneficial, as they can lead to decreased heart complications of T2DM via reducing cardiac apoptotic markers.
Actin Alpha 2 (ACTA2) Downregulation Inhibits Neural Stem Cell Migration through Rho GTPase Activation
Authors: Zhang Ji , Jiang Xuheng , Zhang Chao , Zhong Jun , Fang Xuanyu , Li Huanhuan , Xie Fangke , Huang Xiaofei , Zhang Xiaojun , Hu Quan , Ge Hongfei , Yu Anyong
Published: May 2020

Although neural stem cells (NSCs) could migrate towards lesions after central nervous system (CNS) injury, the migration ability always is restricted due to the disturbed composition and density of the adhesion ligands and extracellular matrix (ECM) gradient after CNS injury. To date, various methods have been developed to enhance NSC migration and a number of factors, which are affecting NSC migration potential, have been identified. Here, primary NSCs were cultured and the expression of actin alpha 2 (ACTA2) in NSCs was determined using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunostaining. Next, the role of ACTA2 in regulating NSC migration and the potential mechanism was explored. Our results demonstrated that ACTA2 expressed in NSCs. Meanwhile, downregulated ACTA2 using siRNA inhibited NSC migration through hindering actin filament polymerization via increasing RhoA expression and decreasing Rac1 expression. The present study might enrich the basic knowledge of ACTA2 in NSC migration and open an avenue for enhancing NSC migration potential, subsequently providing an intervention target for functional recovery after CNS injury.
Molecular Insight into the Therapeutic Promise of TargetingAPOE4for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Mamun Abdullah Al , Uddin Md. Sahab , Bin Bashar Md. Fahim , Zaman Sonia , Begum Yesmin , Bulbul Israt Jahan , Islam Md. Siddiqul , Sarwar Md. Shahid , Mathew Bijo , Amran Md. Shah , Md Ashraf Ghulam , Bin-Jumah May N. , Mousa Shaker A. , Abdel-Daim Mohamed M.
Published: May 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes chronic cognitive dysfunction. Most of the AD cases are late onset, and the apolipoprotein E (APOE) isoform is a key genetic risk factor. TheAPOEgene has 3 key alleles in humans includingAPOE2,APOE3, andAPOE4. Among them,APOE4is the most potent genetic risk factor for late-onset AD (LOAD), whileAPOE2has a defensive effect. Research data suggest thatAPOE4leads to the pathogenesis of AD through various processes such as accelerated beta-amyloid aggregations that raised neurofibrillary tangle formation, cerebrovascular diseases, aggravated neuroinflammation, and synaptic loss. However, the precise mode of actions regarding in what wayAPOE4leads to AD pathology remains unclear. SinceAPOEcontributes to several pathological pathways of AD, targetingAPOE4might serve as a promising strategy for the development of novel drugs to combat AD. In this review, we focus on the recent studies aboutAPOE4-targeted therapeutic strategies that have been advanced in animal models and are being prepared for use in humans for the management of AD.
Effect of COL4A1 Expression on the Survival of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Wang Shin-Mae , Chen Po-Ming , Sung Yu-Wen , Huang Wei-Chieh , Huang Hung-Sen , Chu Pei-Yi
Published: May 2020

Optimal therapy for each patient depends on their subtype, anatomic cancer stage, gene status, and preferences. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy-treated tumors have shown attenuated tumor growth, but the therapy cannot completely reduce tumor cell dissemination to blood stream and distant metastasis. Though it has been indicated that the protein of the collagen type IV alpha 1 (COL4A1) gene is induced by p53 to inhibit angiogenesis and tumorigenic activity in cancer cells, its prognostic significance in breast cancer (BC) patients has not yet been fully elucidated. We analysed 206 BC and fresh paired-match adjacent normal breast tissue from tissue microarrays (TMAs) and COL4A1-stained TMAs using immunohistochemistry. These were used to evaluate COL4A1 expression in BC and to analyse the relationship between this expression and clinicopathological factors and prognosis. The expression of the COL4A1 protein was significantly higher in normal adjacent tissue than in the tumor tissues of BC (P<0.0001). The low COL4A1 expression of the BC patients had decreased metastasis incidence ratio than those exhibiting high COL4A1 expression (P=0.034). Low COL4A1 expression in the tumor cells of BC patients was found to significantly reduce the overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) rates of neoadjuvant chemotherapy patients (P=0.047 and P=0.025, respectively). We also validated the results to ensure their consistency with a web server program for survival analysis from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database (P=0.057). Additionally, COL4A1 expression was positively correlated with p53 expression (P=0.00076). Thus, we present clinical evidence that COL4A1 expression can be used as a biomarker of better prognosis of BC patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
Asiatic Acid Protects against Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Mice
Authors: Hu Xiaoping , Li Baijun , Li Luocheng , Li Bowen , Luo Jinlong , Shen Bin
Published: May 2020

The use of doxorubicin (DOX) can result in depression of cardiac function and refractory cardiomyopathy. Currently, there are no effective approaches to prevent DOX-related cardiac complications. Asiatic acid (AA) has been reported to provide cardioprotection against several cardiovascular diseases. However, whether AA could attenuate DOX-related cardiac injury remains unclear. DOX (15 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally into the mice to mimic acute cardiac injury, and the mice were given AA (10 mg/kg or 30 mg/kg) for 2 weeks for protection. The data in our study found that AA-treated mice exhibited attenuated cardiac injury and improved cardiac function in response to DOX injection. AA also suppressed myocardial oxidative damage and apoptosis without affecting cardiac inflammation in DOX-treated mice. AA also provided protection in DOX-challenged cardiomyocytes, improved cell viability, and suppressed intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vitro. Detection of signaling pathways showed that AA activated protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, we found that AA lost its protective effects in the heart with AKT inactivation. In conclusion, our results found that AA could attenuate DOX-induced myocardial oxidative stress and apoptosis via activation of the AKT signaling pathway.
Coiflet Wavelet-Homotopy Solution of Channel Flow due to Orthogonally Moving Porous Walls Governed by the Navier–Stokes Equations
Authors: Chen Qing-Bo , Xu Hang
Published: May 2020

A newly computational method based on the Coiflet wavelet and homotopy analysis method is developed, which inherits the great nonlinear treatment of the homotopy analysis technique and the local high-precision capability of the wavelet approach, to give solutions to the classic problem of channel flow with moving walls. The basic principle of this suggested technique and the specific solving process are presented in detail. Its validity and efficiency are then checked via rigid comparisons with other computational approaches. It is found that the homotopy-based convergence-control parameter and the wavelet-based resolution level of Coiflet are two effective ways to improve on accuracies of solutions.
Clinical Features and Outcomes of Repeated Endoscopic Therapy for Esophagogastric Variceal Hemorrhage in Cirrhotic Patients: Ten-Year Real-World Analysis
Authors: Ma Jia-li , He Ling-ling , Li Ping , Jiang Yu , Hu Ju-long , Zhou Yu-ling , Liang Xiu-xia , Wei Hong-shan
Published: May 2020

Objective. This study is aimed at evaluating the survival of cirrhotic patients with different etiologies after endoscopic therapy for acute variceal bleeding and the effect of repeated endotherapy on patients’ prognosis. Methods. We retrospectively evaluated the clinical features and outcomes between cirrhotic patients with chronic HBV or HCV infections and other etiologies. The 3-year and 5-year survival rates and rehemorrhage rate in one year between the viral and nonviral cirrhosis patients were compared by Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank test. Cox analysis was used to identify the impact factors that affect the long-term survival of patients with cirrhosis and variceal bleeding after endotherapy. Results. Out of 2665 patients with liver cirrhosis and variceal hemorrhage selected from our medical center between September 2008 and December 2017, a total of 1342 patients were included for analysis. The median follow-up duration was 32.9 months (range 0.16-111.4 months), the 3- and 5-year cumulative survival rates were 75.3% and 52.8%, respectively. The median survival time was significantly longer in viral cirrhosis patients (47.1 months [95% CI: 24.9-69.1]) compared with nonviral cirrhosis patients (37.0 months [95% CI: 25.0-56.0], p=0.001). The 3-year and 5-year survival rates of the viral group were higher than the nonviral group. The rehemorrhage rate at one year was higher in nonviral patients than in viral patients (p<0.001). Conclusion. Repeated endotherapy combined with effective antiviral therapy is helpful for long-term survival of cirrhotic population with variceal hemorrhage and HBV or HCV infection.
Fixed Points of Multivalued G-Nonexpansive Mappings in Hadamard Spaces Endowed with Graphs
Authors: Panyanak Bancha
Published: May 2020

A fixed-point theorem for multivalued G-nonexpansive mappings in Hadamard spaces is proved. The strong convergence theorems of Browder’s and Halpern’s iterations are also established. Our results generalize and improve the results of Tiammee et al. (2015), Alfuraidan and Khamsi (2015), Anakkamatee and Tongnoi (2019), and many others.
Coronary Artery Spasm: New Insights
Authors: Matta Anthony , Bouisset Frederic , Lhermusier Thibault , Campelo-Parada Fran , Elbaz Meyer , Carrié Didier , Roncalli Jerome
Published: May 2020

Coronary artery spasm (CAS) defined by a severe reversible diffuse or focal vasoconstriction is the most common diagnosis among INOCA (ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease) patients irrespective to racial, genetic, and geographic variations. However, the prevalence of CAS tends to decrease in correlation with the increasing use of medicines such as calcium channel blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, and statins, the controlling management of atherosclerotic risk factors, and the decreased habitude to perform a functional reactivity test in highly active cardiac catheterization centers. A wide spectrum of clinical manifestations from silent disease to sudden cardiac death was attributed to this complex entity with unclear pathophysiology. Multiple mechanisms such as the autonomic nervous system, endothelial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and smooth muscle hypercontractility are involved. Regardless of the limited benefits proffered by the newly emerged cardiac imaging modalities, the provocative test remains the cornerstone diagnostic tool for CAS. It allows to reproduce CAS and to evaluate reactivity to nitrates. Different invasive and noninvasive therapeutic approaches are approved for the management of CAS. Long-acting nondihydropyridine calcium channel blockers are recommended for first line therapy. Invasive strategies such as PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention) and CABG (coronary artery bypass graft) have shown benefits in CAS with significant atherosclerotic lesions. Combination therapies are proposed for refractory cases.
Stiffness Model and Experimental Study of Hydrostatic Spindle System considering Rotor Swing
Authors: Chen Runlin , Wang Xingzhao , Du Chen , Zha Jun , Liu Kai , Yuan Xiaoyang
Published: May 2020

For high-end CNC machine tools, the stiffness of the spindle system is one of the most important performance indicators. In this paper, the hydrostatic motorized spindle system of a grinding machine is taken as the research object, and a two-degree-of-freedom stiffness model of the spindle system considering rotor swing is proposed. The stiffness of the spindle system under different excitation frequencies is analyzed, and the contributions of the stiffness of two bearings to the stiffness of the spindle system are evaluated. The vibration test on the spindle system is implemented through the hammering method. The vibration responses of the spindle system are obtained, and the stiffness of the spindle system is identified. The results show that the test results of the stiffness of the spindle system are in good agreement with the theoretical calculation, with an average error of about 14.21%. The research in this paper can provide theoretical and data support for bearing design and stiffness evaluation of a hydrostatic spindle system.
Triangulation Applied to the Intra-European Union Tomato Market
Authors: De Pablo Valenciano Jaime , Torres Arriaza José Antonio , Uribe-Toril Juan , Ruiz-Real José Luis
Published: May 2020

An understanding of the intracommunity trade is essential for the agents involved in the fresh tomato market (farmers, entrepreneurs, public administrations, and consumers). The purpose of this paper is to analyze the interdependent relationships between exporting and importing countries within the European Union for a specific product such as fresh tomatoes and thus understand which have been the key countries in three specific years (2002–2007–2017). The methodology used to study the interrelationships of trade flows in the countries of the European Union (EU) is that of triangulation by means of the Leontief input-output model. Artificial intelligence techniques are used to process and triangulate the data based on pathfinding techniques using a cost function. The triangulation results have created a hierarchy of countries (suppliers and customers). This type of methodology has not been applied to the field of foreign trade. The results show that Netherlands and Spain are key countries in intracommunity trade as they have a strong impact both with regard to their exports and their imports and are fundamental when analyzing the growth of specific sectors and how they are able to stimulate the economies of other countries.
Prediction of Shear Lag Effect in Thin‐Walled Single‐Box Multicell Box Girder Based on the Modified Warping Displacement Function
Authors: Li Xiayuan , Wan Shui , Shen Kongjian , Zhou Peng , Wang Xiao
Published: May 2020

In this study, an effective and accurate theoretical analysis method for predicting the shear lag effect in the thin‐walled single‐box multicell box girder is presented. The modifications of longitudinal warping displacement functions at the flanges are fully investigated, including the shear lag width (bij) of flanges, the coefficients (αij) of shear lag warping functions, the deformation compatibility conditions in flanges, and the internal force balance (D). The initial shear deformation (γ03) in the top lateral cantilever flanges is innovatively introduced in multicell box girders and obtained by the designed procedure. In addition, the transverse distribution function for describing the longitudinal warping displacement is deduced and expressed in the form of the cosine function. Based on the principle of minimum potential energy, the governing differential equations are derived and solved with the associated boundary and load conditions. The accuracy and applicability of the proposed method (SL‐THY2) are validated for four thin‐walled single‐box multicell (two‐ and three‐cell) box girders with the results derived from the solid finite element method.
Development and Application of One Separation-Free Safety Tube on the Disposable Infusion Needle
Authors: Lu Weifen , Pan Qianli , Zhou Yinxin , Chen Wenyu , Zhang Hongyan , Qi Weibo
Published: May 2020

Objective. To develop a new type infusion set and apply it to the clinic, as well as explore its effectiveness in the prevention from needle stick injuries. Methods. A total of 200 inpatients who were in need of intravenous infusion with a disposable infusion needle were included and randomly divided into two groups: intervention group and control group. Disposable infusion needles with a separation-free safety tube were used in the intervention group, whereas conventional ones were used in the control group. Then, effects of the two types of infusion sets were observed and compared. Results. As for the operation time for infusion, it was (82.19±1.80) seconds in the intervention group and (83.02±1.83) seconds in the control group, with the difference statistically significant (P<0.05). Besides, the exposure time of the needles after infusion in the intervention group was (3.36±0.17) seconds while (18.85±1.18) seconds in the control group; the difference between which was statistically significant (P<0.05). In terms of the time for needle disposal, (18.60±0.84) seconds was required in the intervention group, while for the control group, it took (18.85±1.18) seconds, and the difference between two groups was of statistical significance as well (P<0.05). Nevertheless, there was no statistically significant difference in the accidental slip rate of the needles as that turned out 0% in both groups (P>0.05). It was worth noting that the block rate of the disposed needles in the intervention group was 100%. Conclusion. The separation-free safety tube on the disposable infusion needle could instantly block the sharp needle after infusion, which reduces the needle exposure time and lowers the risk of needle stick injuries. In the meantime, the safety tube is convenient to use, and its application can shorten the time for infusion and needle disposal, consequently improving the working efficiency of nurses. As the new type safety tube has above advantages and would not raise the risk of needle slippage, it is worthy of clinical promotion.
Low Tuberculosis (TB) Case Detection: A Health Facility-Based Study of Possible Obstacles in Kaffa Zone, Southwest District of Ethiopia
Authors: Abayneh Mengistu , HaileMariam Shewangizaw , Asres Abyot
Published: May 2020

Background. In Ethiopia, the national TB case detection rate is becoming improved; still some districts are not able to meet their case detection targets which leads to ongoing spread of TB infections to family members and communities. This study was intended to assess possible obstacles contributing to low TB case detection in Kaffa zone, Southwest Ethiopia. Methods. A cross-sectional descriptive study involving qualitative and quantitative data was conducted from Mar. to Sep. 2019. Sociodemographic characteristics and data on duration of cough, whether sputum smear microscopy was requested or not, and data on TB knowledge and health care-seeking practice were collected from outpatients. Health care delivery barrier for TB case detection was also explored by using in-depth interview and FGD of health staff. Results. From 802 outpatients with coughing for 2 or more weeks of duration, 334 (41.6%) of them were not requested to have TB microscopic diagnosis. Of these, 11/324 (3.4%) of them were positive for TB after sputum smear microscopy. Only 24.2% of the outpatients were aware as they have had health education on TB disease. Twenty-eight percent of patients perceived that TB was due to exposure to cold air, and 13.5% could not mention any sign or symptom of TB. Amazingly, 54.2% of them did not have any information as current TB diagnosis and treatment is free. Thirty-five percent of the patients were taking antibiotics before visiting the health facility. The interrupted supply of TB diagnostic reagents, frequent electricity interruption, shortage of trained TB care providers, weak health information system, and weak active case finding practice were explored as the factors contributing to low TB case detection. Conclusion. Interrupted functioning of diagnostic centers, shortage of trained care providers, limited active TB case finding practice, weak health information system, and inadequate knowledge and health care-seeking practice of the patients were identified as contributors for low TB case detection. Thus, improving functioning of diagnostic centers, active TB case finding activities, and expanding health education on TB disease will help to improve TB case detection in the districts.
Quad-Band 3D Rectenna Array for Ambient RF Energy Harvesting
Authors: Khalid Fatima , Saeed Warda , Shoaib Nosherwan , Khan Muhammad U. , Cheema Hammad M.
Published: May 2020

This paper presents a quad-band, 3D mountable rectenna module for ambient energy harvesting. With the aim of powering up Internet of Things (IoT) nodes in practical ambient environments, a hybrid approach of combining power, both at RF and DC, is adopted using 98 MHz FM band, GSM900 (Global System for Mobile Communications), GSM1800, and Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz band. A dual polarized cross-dipole antenna featuring asymmetric slots as well as central ring structure enables multiband response and improved matching at the higher three frequency bands, whereas a loaded monopole wire antenna is used at the lower FM band. Four identical multiband antennas are placed in a 3D cubic arrangement that houses a 4-to-1 power combiner and matching circuits on the inside and the FM antenna on the top. In order to maintain stable rectenna output at varying input power levels and load resistances, a novel transmission line based matching network using closed form equations is proposed. Integrated in form of a 10 × 10 × 10 cm3 cube using standard FR4 substrate, the rectenna generates a peak output voltage of 2.38 V at −10 dBm input power. The RF to DC conversion efficiency is 70.28%, 41.7%, 33.37%, and 27.69% at 98 MHz, 0.9 GHz, 1.8 GHz, and 2.4 GHz, respectively, at −6 dBm. The rectenna also exhibits a measured conversion efficiency of 31.3% at −15 dBm for multitone inputs in ambient environment. The promising results in both indoor and outdoor settings are suitable to power low power IoT devices.
Removal of Textile Dyes by Chemically Treated Sawdust of Acacia: Kinetic and Equilibrium Studies
Authors: Tounsadi Hanane , Metarfi Yousra , Barka Noureddine , Taleb Mustapha , Rais Zakia
Published: May 2020

Sawdust of acacia tree has been successfully used to remove textile dyes from wastewater due to its good sorption properties and its good chemical stability. Two materials are prepared by chemical treatment, including acidic and basic sawdust of acacia. The biosorption tests were carried out on two synthetic dyes of textile which are methylene blue (MB) and brilliant blue (BB). Efficient removal of the both dyes has been achieved by the basic treated sawdust acacia. The modeling of biosorption kinetic shows that the biosorption of MB and that of BB are well described by the pseudo-first-order model for both the chemically treated biosorbents. Equilibrium data have also established using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. Langmuir biosorption capacities are 8.13 and 267.04 mg/g onto basic sawdust acacia and 6.19 and 230.76 mg/g onto acidic sawdust acacia, respectively, for BB and MB sorption. A real final effluent of a textile industry was treated by sorption on both biosorbent basis of sawdust acacia. In fact, the kinetic sorption was rapid with a mass ratio of 1 g/L. However, the biosorption process combined with a biological treatment provides a better result through the physicochemical characteristics of the studied effluent.
Potential Protective Effect of Dietary Intake of Non-α-Tocopherols on Cellular Aging Markers Mediated by Tumor Necrosis Factor-α in Prediabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study of Chinese Adults
Authors: Liu Yiwen , Ma Chifa , Li Pingping , Ma Chunxiao , He Shuli , Ping Fan , Zhang Huabing , Li Wei , Xu Lingling , Li Yuxiu
Published: May 2020

It remains unknown how different glucose tolerance status affects the relationships between dietary intake of different tocopherol isoforms (α-, β-, γ-, and δ-tocopherol) and cellular aging, oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers. The authors conducted a cross-sectional study among 582 Chinese adults with different glucose tolerance status to explore the association between dietary intake of different tocopherol isoforms and cellular aging, oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers. The inverse correlations between non-α-tocopherols and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) varied substantially across different glucose tolerance status, with the strongest observed in prediabetes (r=−0.33 for β-/γ-tocopherol, r=−0.37 for δ-tocopherol, p<0.01), followed by normal glucose tolerance (NGT). While such correlations were abolished in established diabetes. Furthermore, within prediabetes, the strongest inverse correlations between non-α-tocopherols and TNF-α were observed in impaired fasting glucose (IFG) (r=−0.42 for β-/γ-tocopherol, r=−0.55 for δ-tocopherol, p<0.01), while such correlations were significantly attenuated in individuals with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and IFG+IGT. And mediation model analysis displayed that TNF-α mediated the protective effect of non-α-tocopherols on leukocyte telomere length and mitochondrial DNA copy number, which was uniquely observed in prediabetes, while such mediation effect was statistically nonsignificant in NGT and established diabetes. In conclusion, our findings indicate that dietary intake of non-α-tocopherols might protect against cellular aging markers mediated by TNF-α in prediabetes. Individuals with prediabetes, especially for IFG, might benefit from increasing dietary intake of non-α-tocopherol in alleviating inflammation and cellular aging, which might provide a new dietary avenue for delaying diabetes onset.
Analysis of Land Cover Changes in Afromontane Vegetation of Image Forest Reserve, Southern Highlands of Tanzania
Authors: Kayombo Canisius John , Ndangalasi Henry Joseph , Mligo Cosmas , Giliba Richard A.
Published: May 2020

An analysis of land cover changes (LCCs) was done in Image Forest Reserve (IFR) from August to October 2019. Free satellite images for 1990, 2004, and 2018 were downloaded from Landsat 5 (TM) and Landsat 8 (OLI) available through the USGS portal. Ground surveys were conducted using systematically set plots of 20 m × 40 m to identify the existing land cover types and human illegal activities. Geographical coordinates for each of these plots were recorded using handheld GPS. We witnessed the changes of land cover types in the three decades. Forest had contracted, while shrubland and grassland and woodland had expanded within IFR. Between 1990 and 2004, woodland, bareland and rocky outcrops, shrubland, and grassland had consistently decreased though at a different rate of change, while forest has increased between the same assessment periods. The period of 2004–2018 has shown a consistent increase at different rates in woodland, bareland and rocky outcrops, shrubland, and grassland at a different rate of change, while forest has decreased between the same assessment periods. Further study is needed, bylaws and laws should be implemented, participatory forest management should be encouraged, beekeeping and ecotourism should be introduced, provision of regular education to the community by the Tanzania Forest Service (TFS) should be encouraged, and awareness creation should be made.
Immunocheckpoint Inhibitor- (Nivolumab-) Associated Hypereosinophilia in Non-Small-Cell Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Singh Navdeep , Lubana Sandeep Singh , Constantinou George , Leaf Andrea N.
Published: May 2020

Immunocheckpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has provided significant clinical improvements in the treatment of several malignancies. The purpose of this report is to increase awareness of hypereosinophilia associated with checkpoint inhibitors, a topic that has been rarely reported. Hypereosinophilia may need to be addressed especially if eosinophil counts increase to levels where hypereosinophilic visceral complications can occur. We are presenting a case of a 57-year-old male with hypereosinophilia that was seen in the setting of progression of metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer during and after nivolumab treatment.
Multilevel Analysis of 24‐Hour Blood Pressure, Heart Rate, and Associated Factors among Police Officers in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: An Dao Thi Minh , Hoat Luu Ngoc , Son Dinh Thai , Toan Do Thanh , Minh Luu Ngoc , Mai Phan Van , Minh Hoang Van
Published: May 2020

Background. Due to long‐hour outdoor working environment, policemen have been subjected to tremendous health risks including blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR). In tropical countries, the temperature is extremely harsh which may get peak at above 40 Celsius degrees or drops under 8 Celsius degrees. However, the existing data on the effects of weather variation on BP and HR among police task force has been scarce in Vietnam. Aims. This study aimed to describe the variation of 24‐hour BP and HR and identify factors associated with BP and HR for further appropriate interventions in order to reduce health risks from occupational exposure. Methods. Multilevel regression analysis (MLRA) was applied with two levels of influent factors. 24‐hour holter measured systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and HR values were the first level which should then be nested in the second level (individual). 24‐hour temperature and humidity variations were extracted, respectively, from Hanoi Hydrometeorology Department. All individual characteristics and risk behaviours were measured within 24 studying hours. Results. Temperature and humidity were major factors that influenced (74%‐78%) the variation of BP and HR among the policemen population. When each of the Celsius degree temperature or percentage humidity increases, the SBP goes down by 0.44 (0.11‐0.77) and by 0.2 (0.33‐0.77), respectively, and the DBP goes down by 0.21 (‐0.05‐0.48) and by 0.12 (0.02‐0.22), respectively, and vice versa. Interaction between temperature and humidity was significantly influent to SBP. The farther the time section from the first time section (0‐6AM) the more the variation of the BP and HR. Transition from winter to summer made SBP and DBP decrease and vice versa. Individual characteristics including body mass index (BMI), bad life styles, and stress contributed 22% to 26% to the variation of BP and HR. Traffic policemen were at the greatest risks of the outdoor ambient variation in comparison with the firefighters and office‐based policemen. Conclusion. Designing and equipping appropriate uniform and outdoor facilities could help to reduce influence of temperature and humidity variation in the outdoor workplace. Besides, training and educating programs that aimed at controlling BMI, risk behaviours, and stress for police taskforce, especially the traffic policemen, should be implemented.