bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of a Discrete Nonlinear Prey–Predator Model
Authors: Wang JinRong , Fečkan Michal
Published: April 2020

The dynamics of a discrete nonlinear prey–predator model is studied. The local dynamical results are obtained on asymptotic properties of fixed points and Neimark–Sacker bifurcations. Then global dynamics is studied by finding invariant sets. Also some achievements on attraction are shown for certain trivial invariant sets including a shadowing type result, and estimates on boundedness of orbits. Some ergodic type results are also derived. Certain issues are extended to systems with impulses by showing the influence of impulses on dynamics. Moreover, backward dynamics is investigated as well. All these results are derived analytically and numerical computations are presented to support them.
A Coverless Image Information Hiding Algorithm Based on Fractal Theory
Authors: Zhang Xiang , Peng Fei , Lin Zixing , Long Min
Published: April 2020

To improve the robustness and imperceptibility of the existing coverless image information hiding, a generative coverless image information hiding algorithm based on fractal theory is proposed in this paper. Firstly, four fractal image generation methods are analyzed, and the relationship between the coverless information hiding and these methods is discussed. Secondly, based on the fractal image generation algorithm, secret information is hidden by controlling pixel rendering during the generation process. The robustness, imperceptibility, and capability of resisting steganalysis are balanced by adjusting the rendering distance. As it directly generates stego images, this can resist the detection of most existing steganalysis methods. Meanwhile, different capacities can be achieved by adjusting the size of the generated image. Experimental results and analysis show that the proposed scheme can effectively resist steganalysis and has good robustness against various image attacks. Furthermore, it can achieve large capacity, and it has broad prospects for covert communication.
Veera Tanneries Private Limited: An Indian Leather Enterprise’s Drive Towards Sustainability
Authors: Gupta Sandeep Kumar , Gupta Sanjeev
Published: April 2020

It is essential to monitor the development of resource and pollution intensive industries such as textile, leather, pharmaceutical etc., under burgeoning pressure of environmental compliance. Keeping the above-mentioned objective in mind, the case analyzes the sustainability strategies of a leading leather enterprise in India — Veera Tanneries Private Limited. Veera has undertaken initiatives to determine how it should address sustainability challenges to reduce environmental impact and ensure business growth. A discussion on such a problem would allow the case to look at the company’s motivations for adopting eco-friendly measures in the Indian leather industry (to address sustainability challenges), the potential impact on business performance of such measures, for instance increasing cost to production and other business strategies to support the company’s growth.
Nokia’s Comeback — Is it Revival of an Iconic Brand?
Authors: Zaidi Neha , Tyagi Pallavi , Singh Animesh
Published: April 2020

The case highlights how once a market leader went from glory to decline because of its averseness to change in the dynamic competitive environment. It also emphasises the importance of innovation, flexibility and constant upgradation for sustainability. It talks about constant improvement upon one’s core competencies. The case restates the ideas and theories of Dr. C.K. Prahalad and Gary Hamel that core competencies are not permanent and stagnant, and they need to be acquired, refined, developed and evolved to sustain the competitive advantage.

The case further highlights the dynamic nature of the market, and how various forces both internal (to the organisation) and external may overthrow the throne of seemingly big players and how the small players can give them a run for the share. The case can be analyzed through various strategic management frameworks such as PESTEL analysis, TOWS analysis and Porter’s Five Forces Model.
Structure and stratigraphy in the Pennsylvanian tectonic zone of southern New Brunswick, Canada: the ‘Maritime coastal disturbance’ revisited
Authors: Park Adrian F. , Hinds Steven J.
Published: April 2020

Identified as the ‘Variscan Front’ 40 years ago, the Pennsylvanian tectonic zone of southern New Brunswick has presented structural and stratigraphic challenges for the last century. In 1986, R. Damian Nance presented an integrated tectonostratigraphic analysis which suggested that the zone represented a transpressive flower structure controlling both deposition of Pennsylvanian sedimentary formations and their subsequent deformation, a consequence of Meguma terrane docking and subsequent adjustment. The strength of this model is demonstrated through the integration of recent field studies and more recent geochronology, which refines the details and expands the scale of the flower structures. Current understanding suggests that three large transpressive structures developed diachronously, and the southern tectonic zone is linked with strike-slip faults to the north (especially the Kennebecasis Fault) via the Spruce Lake Shear Zone. The early history of this zone coincides with a change from deposition of locally sourced continental red beds (lower Pennsylvanian or youngest Mississippian Balls Lake Formation) to more distally sourced fluvial deposits (lower Pennsylvanian Lancaster and Tynemouth Creek formations). Rather than being an isolated segment of a late Pennsylvanian ‘Variscan front’, this tectonic zone can be integrated into the overall strike-slip regime that dominated the Carboniferous evolution of this orogen and the successor basins.
Cultivating DNA Sequencing Technology After the Human Genome Project
Authors: Schloss Jeffery A. , Gibbs Richard A. , Makhijani Vinod B. , Marziali Andre
Published: April 2020

When the Human Genome Project was completed in 2003, automated Sanger DNA sequencing with fluorescent dye labels was the dominant technology. Several nascent alternative methods based on older ideas that had not been fully developed were the focus of technical researchers and companies. Funding agencies recognized the dynamic nature of technology development and that, beyond the Human Genome Project, there were growing opportunities to deploy DNA sequencing in biological research. Consequently, the National Human Genome Research Institute of the National Institutes of Health created a program—widely known as the Advanced Sequencing Technology Program—that stimulated all stages of development of new DNA sequencing methods, from innovation to advanced manufacturing and production testing, with the goal of reducing the cost of sequencing a human genome first to $100,000 and then to $1,000. The events of this period provide a powerful example of how judicious funding of academic and commercial partners can rapidly advance core technology developments that lead to profound advances across the scientific landscape.
In-Situ Localized pH, pNa and Dissolved O2 Measurements During Charge-Discharge of Mixed Ni–Co Hydroxide Electrodes
Authors: Adán-Más Alberto , Taryba Maryna G. , Silva Teresa M. , Guerlou-Demourgues Liliane , Montemor M. F.
Published: April 2020

This work reports, for the first time, the use of ion-selective localized electrochemical techniques to elucidate the charge-discharge mechanism of nickel-cobalt hydroxide electrodes for electrochemical energy storage. The charge-discharge mechanism of electrodeposited nickel-cobalt hydroxide electrodes was studied in Na2SO4 0.05 M by localized in situ measurements of pH, pNa and dissolved O2 during cyclic voltammetry. Local pH and pNa distributions were recorded using micro-potentiometric sensors with liquid membrane, while dissolved O2 was monitored using a fiber-optic microsensor. These original results highlight how localized potentiometry can provide new insights to better understand the charge mechanism of metal (hydr)oxide electrodes by directly measuring the concentrations/activities of relevant species at the electrode-electrolyte interface during charge-discharge.
4-Electrode Full Cells for Operando Li+ Activity Measurements and Prevention of Li Deposition in Li-Ion Cells
Authors: Hogg Björn-Ingo , Waldmann Thomas , Wohlfahrt-Mehrens Margret
Published: April 2020

Li plating is a severe and safety relevant aging mechanism which has to be avoided. A new 4-electrode operando pouch full cell, with two Li reference electrodes is developed. The voltage shifts between the two Li metal electrodes are correlating directly with changes in the Li+ activity a[Li+] in the electrolyte in front of the anode surface. We take advantage of the Li+ activity dependency of the Li+/Li redox potential as described by the Nernst equation to measure the Li+ activity in the electrolyte. On this basis, the mismatch between reaction and transport kinetics in anode and cathode is discussed. Finally, optimized fast-charging procedures based on strictly positive anode potentials are deduced from the measurements in cells with reference electrodes. These charging protocols allow reducing charging time while enhancing cycle life significantly. The second reference electrode is helpful to understand these measurements in terms of Li+ activity during charging. The applicability of such fast-charging protocols is demonstrated on the example of commercial 16 Ah pouch and lab cells.
Passive Mitigation of Thermal Runaway Propagation in Dense 18650 Lithium Ion Cell Assemblies
Authors: Lee Christopher , Said Ahmed O. , Stoliarov Stanislav I.
Published: April 2020

The dynamics, heating rates, gaseous emissions and energetics of thermally-induced thermal runaway propagation in dense arrays consisting of 12–15 fully charged 18650 lithium ion cells have been quantified to determine the effectiveness of several passive mitigation strategies. These strategies include implementing 5 mm gaps between select rows and columns in the array, and inserting physical barriers, such as double-layer stainless steel, intumescent material or ceramic fiber board into the gaps. All experiments were performed in a wind tunnel facility that allows tracking of thermal runaway propagation through the arrays with well-defined experimental conditions. None of the tested mitigation strategies completely prevented propagation. However, the physical barriers were found to be effective in slowing the propagation speed. Among the barriers, ceramic fiber board was found to be the most effective slowing down the propagation by more than a factor of 30. Additionally, contributions of different heat transfer processes driving the propagation were quantified. In air experiments on the arrays without gaps or barriers, 50% of heat flow to downstream (non-failed) cells was associated with flaming combustion of ejected battery materials, 20% was associated with direct cell-to-cell conduction and the rest was associated with convective and radiative heat transfer between cells.
Challenges to the central nervous system during human spaceflight missions to Mars
Authors: Clément Gilles R. , Boyle Richard D. , George Kerry A. , Nelson Gregory A. , Reschke Millard F. , Williams Thomas J. , Paloski William H.
Published: April 2020

Space travel presents a number of environmental challenges to the central nervous system, including changes in gravitational acceleration that alter the terrestrial synergies between perception and action, galactic cosmic radiation that can damage sensitive neurons and structures, and multiple factors (isolation, confinement, altered atmosphere, and mission parameters, including distance from Earth) that can affect cognition and behavior. Travelers to Mars will be exposed to these environmental challenges for up to 3 years, and space-faring nations continue to direct vigorous research investments to help elucidate and mitigate the consequences of these long-duration exposures. This article reviews the findings of more than 50 years of space-related neuroscience research on humans and animals exposed to spaceflight or analogs of spaceflight environments, and projects the implications and the forward work necessary to ensure successful Mars missions. It also reviews fundamental neurophysiology responses that will help us understand and maintain human health and performance on Earth.
Differences and Similarities: The Richness of Comparative Sperm Physiology
Authors: Darszon Alberto , Nishigaki Takuya , López-González Ignacio , Visconti Pablo E. , Treviño Claudia L.
Published: April 2020

Species preservation depends on the success of fertilization. Sperm are uniquely equipped to fulfill this task, and, although several mechanisms are conserved among species, striking functional differences have evolved to contend with particular sperm-egg environmental characteristics. This review highlights similarities and differences in sperm strategies, with examples within internal and external fertilizers, pointing out unresolved issues.
Facial Recognition for Drunk People Using Thermal Imaging
Authors: Sancen-Plaza Agustin , Contreras-Medina Luis M. , Barranco-Gutiérrez Alejandro Israel , Villaseñor-Mora Carlos , Martínez-Nolasco Juan J , Padilla-Medina José A.
Published: April 2020

Face recognition using thermal imaging has the main advantage of being less affected by lighting conditions compared to images in the visible spectrum. However, there are factors such as the process of human thermoregulation that cause variations in the surface temperature of the face. These variations cause recognition systems to lose effectiveness. In particular, alcohol intake causes changes in the surface temperature of the face. It is of high relevance to identify not only if a person is drunk but also their identity. In this paper, we present a technique for face recognition based on thermal face images of drunk people. For the experiments, the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso-Drunk Thermal Face database (PUCV-DTF) was used. The recognition system was carried out by using local binary patterns (LBPs). The LBP features were obtained from the bioheat model from thermal image representation and a fusion of thermal images and a vascular network extracted from the same image. The feature vector for each image is formed by the concatenation of the LBP histogram of the thermogram with an anisotropic filter and the fused image, respectively. The proposed technique has an average percentage of 99.63% in the Rank-10 cumulative classification; this performance is superior compared to using LBP in thermal images that do not use the bioheat model.
Cartography and Epidemiological Study of Leishmaniasis Disease in Sefrou Province (2007–2010), Central North of Morocco
Authors: Talbi Fatima Zahra , El Khayyat Fatiha , El Omari Hajar , Maniar Saâd , Fadil Mouhcine , Taroq Amal , Idrissi Abdellatif Janati , El Ouali Lalami Abdelhakim
Published: April 2020

Increasing cases of leishmaniasis disease have been reported during recent years in Sefrou Province, Central North of Morocco. This study presents the epidemiological profile of the provincial population, aims at analyzing the epidemiological profile, and in particular, spatiotemporal follow-up of all cases of leishmaniasis. It is a retrospective analysis of leishmaniasis cases recorded between 2007 and 2010. The data were analyzed by SPSS software (version 20). Over a four-year period, from 2007 to 2010, there were 62 cases of leishmaniasis, 93.12% of cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis and 6.87% of visceral leishmaniasis. The case number of leishmaniasis in the Province of Sefrou varies between 0.165% and 0.0018%. For each type of leishmaniasis, the female sex was the most affected compared to the male sex. This difference cannot be considered statistically significant (χ2 = 0.083, p value = 0.77). For cutaneous leishmaniasis, all age groups were affected with a large percentage: patients aged 0–9 years with 63.11% followed by the age group [10–19] with 24.18%. Visceral leishmaniasis mainly has affected the infant population [0–9] with 83.33%. We have not observed any association between the age classes and the leishmaniasis type (χ2 = 6.20, p value = 0.4). From a spatial point of view, the majority of cases of leishmaniasis was reported in El Menzel region (67 cases) followed by Sefrou (64 cases) and Tazouta (38 cases). There is a statistically significant relationship between the type of leishmaniasis and the studied regions (χ2 = 52; p value <0.001). The study of the epidemiological profile of leishmaniasis cases may be useful in enlightening health authorities to develop screening, treatment, and control strategies to reduce the incidence rate of the disease. Other research studies can be conducted to the dynamics of the vectors of sandflies and their ecology.
A Novel Glucose Isomerase from Caldicellulosiruptor bescii with Great Potentials in the Production of High‐Fructose Corn Syrup
Authors: Dai Chenxia , Miao Tingting , Hai Jinping , Xiao Yunyi , Li Ying , Zhao Junren , Qiu Hulin , Xu Bo
Published: April 2020

Glucose isomerase (GI) that catalyzes the conversion of D‐glucose to D‐fructose is one of the most important industrial enzymes for the production of high‐fructose corn syrup (HFCS). In this study, a novel GI (CbGI) was cloned from Caldicellulosiruptor bescii and expressed in Escherichia coli. The purified recombinant CbGI (rCbGI) showed neutral and thermophilic properties. It had optimal activities at pH 7.0 and 80°C and retained stability at 85°C. In comparison with other reported GIs, rCbGI exhibited higher substrate affinity (Km = 42.61 mM) and greater conversion efficiency (up to 57.3% with 3M D‐glucose as the substrate). The high catalytic efficiency and affinity of this CbGI is much valuable for the cost‐effective production of HFCS.
Natural Antibrowning Agents against Polyphenol Oxidase Activity in Annona muricata and Musa acuminata
Authors: Weerawardana Michelle B. S. , Thiripuranathar Gobika , Paranagama Priyani A.
Published: April 2020

Fresh-cut fruits and vegetables emerge as popular food for consumers in retail markets. However, a loss of millions of dollars yearly to the food industry has been due to discoloration of fruits and vegetables caused by a pronounced reaction called enzymatic browning, which is caused by the activity of the polyphenol oxidase enzyme present in most of the fruits and vegetables. The main objective of this study was to investigate the natural antibrowning effects of the aqueous extract of ginger and essential oil of cinnamon bark on PPO enzymatic activity in Annona muricata (katu anoda) and Musa acuminata (ash plantains), which are considered to be widely consumable by Sri Lankans due to its respective health benefits. The antibrowning activity analyzed using a UV-visible spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 525 nm showed that cinnamon bark oil of 0.0035 g/mL had a % inhibitory activity of 51.97 percent on PPO activity in Annona muricata and 49.51 percent on PPO activity in Musa acuminata, while the aqueous extract of ginger of 0.091 g/mL had a % inhibitory activity of 60.90 percent on PPO activity in Annona muricata and 48.10 percent on PPO activity in Musa acuminata, respectively. This study shows that cinnamon bark oil and ginger can be used as effective, natural, nontoxic antibrowning agents that can inhibit the activity of the PPO enzyme, thereby preventing the essence and nutritional benefits of fruits and vegetables.
Study and Verification of Large-Scale Parallel Mesh Generation Algorithm for Centrifugal Pump
Authors: Dong Liang , Zhang Yuhang , Ge Zhipeng , Dai Cui. , Guo Jinnan
Published: April 2020

In order to reveal the details of the internal flow in a centrifugal pump, a large-scale mesh is needed. However, the mesh generated by the serial grid algorithm cannot meet the calculation requirements due to the huge amount of time. A large-scale parallel mesh generation algorithm of a centrifugal pump for high-performance computers is presented in this paper. First, a grid point set for the 3D Delaunay triangular mesh on the surface of the centrifugal pump is generated. Then, the S-H (Sutherland–Hodgman) algorithm for cropping and segmenting these grid point sets on the surface is employed. A uniform boundary mesh is generated and is divided into different subregions. In addition, in order to ensure the consistency of the interface mesh and to avoid the boundary mesh intersection overlap error, a parallel constrained Delaunay mesh generation algorithm based on region numbering is proposed, which can improve the quality and efficiency of the generated parallel mesh. Finally, the centrifugal pump is tested for verifying the parallel mesh algorithm in the Tianhe-2 supercomputer. PIV (particle image velocimetry) internal flow experiment is comparatively analyzed with the numerical simulation of large-scale mesh. The results show that the algorithm can generate 108 3D unstructured grid elements in 5 minutes, and the parallel efficiency can achieve 80%. The proposed algorithm not only ensures high grid quality with the serial grid algorithm but also accurately simulates the flow law in the centrifugal pump. The double-vortex structure which is obtained by PIV experiment is captured by the large-scale mesh.
Decreased Soluble Receptor of Advanced Glycation End Product Levels Correlated with Inflammation in Silicosis
Authors: Liu Heliang , Ma Jingjing , Jiang Tian , Li Enhong , Zhao Xiaokun , Wang Ying , Cui Jie , Hao Xiaohui , Guo Lingli
Published: April 2020

Silicosis is a devastating disease caused by inhalation of silica dust that leads to inflammatory cascade and then scarring of the lung tissue. Increasing evidences indicate that soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) is involved in inflammatory diseases. However, no data on the possible relationship between sRAGE and inflammation of silicosis are available. In this study, serum from subjects with silicosis (n=59) or from healthy controls (HC, n=14) was analyzed for the secretion of sRAGE, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL). The associations between sRAGE and cytokines and ox-LDL and lung function were assessed by Pearson’s correlation analyses. Mean levels of serum sRAGE were lower in silicosis than those in controls (p<0.05). The subjects who had a longer term of occupational exposure had higher levels of sRAGE (p<0.05). The secretion of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, TGF-β1, and ox-LDL was significantly higher in the silicosis group than that in the HC group (p<0.05). Furthermore, the levels of sRAGE were negatively correlated with TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and ox-LDL. There is no correlation between sRAGE and TGF-β1 and lung function. The optimal point of sRAGE for differentiating silicosis from healthy controls was 14250.02 pg/ml by ROC curve analysis. A decrease in serum sRAGE and its association with inflammatory response might suggest a role for sRAGE in the pathogenesis of silicosis.
Synthesis and Luminescence Properties of SrGd2O4:Eu3+ Red Phosphors
Authors: Wang Jun-Feng , Zu Hao , Lin Chuan-Wen , Ding Shou-Jun , Shao Peng-Yu , Xia Ye
Published: April 2020

As one of the important raw materials for LED products, phosphors play an important role. At present, the spectrum of LED phosphors lacks red light, resulting in poor quality of white LED products and a low color rendering index (Ra <80), which affects lighting effects. To solve this problem, we synthesized the SrGd2O4:Eu3+ red phosphor by a high-temperature solid-phase method. The structure and luminescence properties of SrGd2O4:Eu3+ red phosphors were studied by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements of their emission and excitation spectra, and their spectra were analyzed. We also studied the Eu3+ doping concentration with the best luminous efficiency and the color coordinate of the SrGd2O4:Eu3+ phosphor. The experimental results show that SrGd2O4:Eu3+ is a new red phosphor material that can be used for near-ultraviolet or blue-light excitation and has good practicability.
Early Economic Evaluation Demonstrates That Noncomputerized Tomography Robotic-Assisted Surgery Is Cost-Effective in Patients Undergoing Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty at High-Volume Orthopaedic Centres
Authors: Nherera Leo M. , Verma Sanjay , Trueman Paul , Jennings Simon
Published: April 2020

Background. For over fifty years, unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) has been used to treat single-compartment osteoarthritis of the knee and is considered a safe alternative to total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The development and use of robotic-assisted surgery (r-UKA) have made the execution of the procedure more precise, and various studies have reported improved radiographic outcomes and implant survival rates; however, its cost-effectiveness is unknown. This study aimed at assessing the cost-effectiveness of noncomputerized tomography (non-CT) r-UKA compared to the traditional unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (t-UKA) method in patients with unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis from the UK payer’s perspective. Methods. We developed a 5-year four-state Markov model to evaluate the expected costs and outcomes of the two strategies in patients aged 65 years. Failure rates for t-UKA were taken from the British National Joint Registry while data for non-CT r-UKA were obtained from a 2-year observational study. Cost was obtained from the NHS reference cost valued at 2018/19 GBP£, and a discount rate of 3.5% was applied to both costs and benefits. Results. For a high-volume orthopaedic centre that performs 100 UKA operations per year, non-CT r-UKA was more costly than t-UKA but offered better clinical outcomes, and the estimated cost per QALY was £2,831. The results were more favourable in younger patients aged less than 55 and sensitive to case volumes and follow-up period. Conclusion. Non-CT r-UKA is cost-effective compared with t-UKA over a 5-year period. Results are dependent on case volumes and follow-up period and favour younger age groups.
Carbon Monoxide Being Hydrogen Sulfide and Nitric Oxide Molecular Sibling, as Endogenous and Exogenous Modulator of Oxidative Stress and Antioxidative Mechanisms in the Digestive System
Authors: Korbut Edyta , Brzozowski Tomasz , Magierowski Marcin
Published: April 2020

Oxidative stress reflects an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants in favor of the oxidants capable of evoking tissue damage. Like hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO) is an endogenous gaseous mediator recently implicated in the physiology of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. CO is produced in mammalian tissues as a byproduct of heme degradation catalyzed by the heme oxygenase (HO) enzymes. Among the three enzymatic isoforms, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is induced under conditions of oxidative stress or tissue injury and plays a beneficial role in the mechanism of protection against inflammation, ischemia/reperfusion (I/R), and many other injuries. According to recently published data, increased endogenous CO production by inducible HO-1, its delivery by novel pharmacological CO-releasing agents, or even the direct inhalation of CO has been considered a promising alternative in future experimental and clinical therapies against various GI disorders. However, the exact mechanisms underlying behind these CO-mediated beneficial actions are not fully explained and experimental as well as clinical studies on the mechanism of CO-induced protection are awaited. For instance, in a variety of experimental models related to gastric mucosal damage, HO-1/CO pathway and CO-releasing agents seem to prevent gastric damage mainly by reduction of lipid peroxidation and/or increased level of enzymatic antioxidants, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) or glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Many studies have also revealed that HO-1/CO can serve as a potential defensive pathway against oxidative stress observed in the liver and pancreas. Moreover, increased CO levels after treatment with CO donors have been reported to protect the gut against formation of acute GI lesions mainly by the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the antioxidative activity. In this review, we focused on the role of H2S and NO molecular sibling, CO/HO pathway, and therapeutic potential of CO-releasing pharmacological tools in the regulation of oxidative stress-induced damage within the GI tract with a special emphasis on the esophagus, stomach, and intestines and also two solid and important metabolic abdominal organs, the liver and pancreas.
Bioinformatics Analysis of the Molecular Mechanism of Late‐Stage Heterotopic Ossification
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Zhang Yan , Yan Meijun , Zhu Kai , Zhou Dong , Tan Jun
Published: April 2020

Background. Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a common disease happened in soft tissues after injury. The present study utilized the bioinformatics method to analyze the HO samples in a mouse burn/tenotomy‐induced HO model to identify the possible key points and treatment targets. Methods. The transcriptome profiles of GSE126118 were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The study was based on a mouse burn/tenotomy‐induced HO model, and 2 tenotomy samples and 3 uninjured contralateral hindlimb tendon samples were collected at 3 weeks after injury for further analysis. The transcripts per million approach was performed for background correction and normalization; then, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected using the limma R package with the settings p < 0.01 and ∣log2FC∣ > 2.0. The Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment, and the protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network analysis were performed with the detected DEGs. Results. A total of 74 DEGs were upregulated, and 159 DEGs were downregulated between the tenotomy and uninjured tendon group. Pathway and process enrichment analyses demonstrated that the upregulated DEGs were mainly associated with terms related to ECM remodeling, ossification, angiogenesis, inflammation, etc., and the downregulated DEGs were mainly associated with oxidative phosphorylation, metabolic process, etc. Conclusion. The results of GO, KEGG, and PPI network analyses suggested that the ECM remodeling, ossification, angiogenesis, and inflammation processes were markedly upregulated in the tenotomy site. And the oxidative phosphorylation and metabolic processes were markedly downregulated. These findings provide valuable clues for highlighting the characteristics of late‐stage HO and investigating possible treatments.
Pathophysiological and Genetic Aspects of Vascular Calcification
Authors: Escobar Guzman Luis Fernando , Escobar Guzman Cristian Andres , Lopes Neuza Helena Moreira
Published: April 2020

Recent evidence suggests that vascular calcification is an independent cardiovascular risk factor (CRF) of morbidity and mortality. New studies point out the existence of a complex physiopathological mechanism that involves inflammation, oxidation, the release of chemical mediators, and genetic factors that promote the osteochondrogenic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). This review will evaluate the main mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology and genetics modulation of the process of vascular calcification.Objective.A systematic review of the pathophysiology factors involved in vascular calcification and its genetic influence was performed.Methods.A systematic review was conducted in the Medline and PubMed databases and were searched for studies concerning vascular calcification using the keywords and studies published until 2020/01 in English.Inclusion Criteria. Studies in vitro, animal models, and humans. These include cohort (both retrospective and prospective cohort studies), case-control, cross-sectional, and systematic reviews.Exclusion Criteria. Studies before 2003 of the existing literature.
Long-Term Outcomes of Allogeneic Ocular Surface Reconstruction: Keratolimbal Allograft (KLAL) Followed by Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)
Authors: Krysik Katarzyna , Dobrowolski Dariusz , Tarnawska Dorota , Wylegala Edward , Lyssek-Boroń Anita
Published: April 2020

Purpose. Long-term results of the patients with total LSCD, who had undergone keratolimbal allograft (KLAL) for limbal reconstruction followed by penetrating keratoplasty (PK). Methods. The study analyzes surgical treatment of 43 eyes with severe ocular surface disorders. All subjects underwent KLAL to achieve suitable conditions for consecutive PK. Due to failures of primary treatment in 17 eyes (39%), the KLAL was repeated. PK was performed in all the patients at 9-12 months after KLAL. As a retrospective study we analyzed data from the medical records including the preoperative and postoperative best corrected visual acuity, corneal clarity, surgical outcomes and complications, postoperative intraocular pressure, graft rejection, and other comorbidities and complications. Results. The preoperative visual acuity ranged from light perception to 0.01. The final improvement of visual acuity within a gain of one or more lines with the Snellen chart, including the results of successive surgical treatments after PK, was achieved in 23 operated eyes (53%). Early graft rejection was observed in 4 eyes (9%). In 3 eyes, it was manifested as endothelial rejection, and in 1 eye, as combined endothelial and epithelial rejection. PK failure requiring repetitive PK was present in 14 eyes (32%). Phthisis bulbi developed in 6 eyes (14%). Glaucoma or ocular hypertension was reported in 25 eyes (58%). A majority were treated with up to 3 topical agents or referred for trabeculectomy in 3 cases, transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in 2 eyes, and EX-PRESS glaucoma shunt implantation in 3 cases. Conclusions. Successful KLAL carries a high risk of subsequent PK failure. Visual function remains the second aim of treatment; the primary one is to stabilize the surface.
Clinical Characteristics and Visual Outcomes of Patients Hospitalized for Ocular Trauma in Shandong Province, China
Authors: Duan Fangnan , Chen Xiunian , Zhang Sai , Qi Xiaolin , Shi Weiyun , Gao Hua
Published: April 2020

Purpose. To analyze the clinical characteristics and visual prognoses of patients with ocular trauma treated in Shandong Eye Hospital. Methods. The inpatient data of patients with eye injuries hospitalized in our institution from January 2014 to December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed, including demographic information, types of trauma, causes of injury, treatment, and initial and final visual acuities. Results. A total of 1,425 patients (1,622 eyes), aged 39.5 ± 18.5 years, were included. The ratio of male to female was 5.3 : 1. Of the mechanical eye injuries, there were 490 (34.4%) open-globe injuries and 454 (31.9%) closed-globe injuries. Nonmechanical eye injuries had 426 patients (29.9%), while 55 patients (3.9%) had adnexal injuries. Over a half of the traumas were work-related (51.1%, 728 patients). Most patients were treated with surgical intervention (1,404 eyes, 87.9%). There were significant differences in the final visual acuities between open-globe injuries and closed-globe injuries (P<0.001), as well as between mechanical injuries and nonmechanical injuries (P<0.001). The final visual acuity was closely correlated with the initial visual acuity (Spearman’s correlation coefficient = 0.618, P<0.001) and the OTS score (Spearman’s correlation coefficient = 0.691, P<0.001). Conclusion. Ocular trauma usually occurs in young and middle-aged men and in the workplace in Shandong Province. The proportion of nonmechanical injuries is high, and the prognosis is poor. A comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of ocular trauma is useful for blindness prevention and treatment.
Biomimetic Gold Nanoshell‐Loaded Macrophage for Photothermal Biomedicine
Authors: Kang Sung Hun , Lee Yong Kyu , Park Il Seok , Park In-Kyu , Hong Seok Min , Kwon Soon Young , Choi Young Hee , Madsen Steen J. , Hirschberg Henry , Hong Seok Jin
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of photothermal treatment (PTT) with gold nanoshell (ANS) using a macrophage‐mediated delivery system in a head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell line. To achieve this, ANS‐loaded rat macrophages (ANS‐MAs) were prepared via the coculture method with ANS. The human HNSCC (FaDu cell) and macrophage (rat macrophage; NR8383 cell) hybrid spheroid models were generated by the centrifugation method to determine the possibility of using ANS‐MAs as a cancer therapy. These ANS‐MAs were set into the tumor and macrophage hybrid spheroid model to measure PTT efficacy. Kinetic analysis of the spheroid growth pattern revealed that this PTT process caused a decreasing pattern in the volume of the hybrid model containing ANS‐MAs (p < 0.001). Comparison with empty macrophages showed harmony between ANS and laser irradiation for the generation of PTT. An annexin V/dead cell marker assay indicated that the PTT‐treated hybrid model induced increasing apoptosis and dead cells. Further studies on the toxicity of ANS‐MAs are needed to reveal whether it can be considered biocompatible. In summary, the ANS was prepared with a macrophage as the delivery method and protective carrier. The ANS was successfully localized to the macrophages, and their photoabsorption property was stationary. This strategy showed significant growth inhibition of the tumor and macrophage spheroid model under NIR laser irradiation. In vivo toxicology results suggest that ANS‐MA is a promising candidate for a biocompatible strategy to overcome the limitations of fabricated nanomaterials. This ANS‐MA delivery and PTT strategy may potentially lead to improvements in the quality of life of patients with HNSCC by providing a biocompatible, minimally invasive modality for cancer treatment.
Conductivity, Surface Tension, and Comparative Antibacterial Efficacy Study of Different Brands of Soaps of Nepal
Authors: Chaudhary Narendra Kumar , Bhattarai Arush , Guragain Biswash , Bhattarai Ajaya
Published: April 2020

The current study aims to evaluate the solution properties and antibacterial efficacy study of five different brands of toilet soaps of Nepal such as Okhati (OKT), Lifebuoy (LFBY), Lux (LX), Liril (LRL), and Chiuree Neem (NM). The evaluation of critical micelle concentration (CMC) and their thermodynamics and surface properties are also reported. This study was further extended to evaluate antibacterial efficacy against three pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Proteus vulgaris (P. vulgaris) by disc diffusion technique, and it was done at four different concentrations of soap. The bioactive ingredients present in them provide antibacterial potency to cure various skin problems caused by bacterial pathogens. Similarly, the antibacterial potency of LFBY was found higher than other soaps. Based on these studies, we can simply take LFBY soap at the highest rank in regards to antibacterial sensitivity.
Uridine Metabolism and Its Role in Glucose, Lipid, and Amino Acid Homeostasis
Authors: Zhang Yumei , Guo Songge , Xie Chunyan , Fang Jun
Published: April 2020

Pyrimidine nucleoside uridine plays a critical role in maintaining cellular function and energy metabolism. In addition to its role in nucleoside synthesis, uridine and its derivatives contribute to reduction of cytotoxicity and suppression of drug‐induced hepatic steatosis. Uridine is mostly present in blood and cerebrospinal fluid, where it contributes to the maintenance of basic cellular functions affected by UPase enzyme activity, feeding habits, and ATP depletion. Uridine metabolism depends on three stages: de novo synthesis, salvage synthesis pathway and catabolism, and homeostasis, which is tightly relating to glucose homeostasis and lipid and amino acid metabolism. This review is devoted to uridine metabolism and its role in glucose, lipid, and amino acid homeostasis.
Cryptococcal Meningitis in an Immunocompetent Patient with a Ventriculo-Pleural Shunt
Authors: Fernandez Raynieri , Henao Jose , Creticos Catherine
Published: April 2020

Cryptococcal meningitis is the most common form of infection caused by Cryptococcus yeast species, followed by pulmonary infection. It is an opportunistic infection seen in patients with impaired cell immunity, most frequently in HIV patients and solid organ transplant recipients; however, it can occur in patients with no apparent immunodeficiency. We describe the case of Cryptococcus neoformans meningitis in an immunocompetent patient with aseptic cerebrospinal fluid analysis which highlights the heterogeneity of this disease.
VX765 Attenuates Pyroptosis and HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB Pathways to Improve Functional Outcomes in TBI Mice
Authors: Sun Zhezhe , Nyanzu Mark , Yang Su , Zhu Xiaohong , Wang Kankai , Ru Junnan , Yu Enxing , Zhang Hengli , Wang Zhenzhong , Shen Jie , Zhuge Qichuan , Huang Lijie
Published: April 2020

Background. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to temporary or permanent damage to brain function caused by penetrating objects or blunt force trauma. TBI activates inflammasome-mediated pathways and other cell death pathways to remove inactive and damaged cells, however, they are also harmful to the central nervous system. The newly discovered cell death pattern termed pyroptosis has become an area of interest. It mainly relies on caspase-1-mediated pathways, leading to cell death. Methods. Our research focus is VX765, a known caspase-1 inhibitor which may offer neuroprotection after the process of TBI. We established a controlled cortical impact (CCI) mouse model and then controlled the degree of pyroptosis in TBI with VX765. The effects of caspase-1 inhibition on inflammatory response, pyroptosis, blood-brain barrier (BBB), apoptosis, and microglia activation, in addition to neurological deficits, were investigated. Results. We found that TBI led to NOD-like receptors (NLRs) as well as absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis in the damaged cerebral cortex. VX765 curbed the expressions of indispensable inflammatory subunits (caspase-1 as well as key downstream proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin- (IL-) 1β and IL-18). It also inhibited gasdermin D (GSDMD) cleavage and apoptosis-associated spot-like protein (ASC) oligomerization in the injured cortex. In addition to the above, VX765 also inhibited the inflammatory activity of the high-mobility cassette -1/Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B (HMGB1/TLR4/NF-kappa B) pathway. By inhibiting pyroptosis and inflammatory mediator expression, we demonstrated that VX765 can decrease blood-brain barrier (BBB) leakage, apoptosis, and microglia polarization to exhibit its neuroprotective effects. Conclusion. In conclusion, VX765 can counteract neurological damage after TBI by reducing pyroptosis and HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway activities. VX765 may have a good therapeutic effect on TBI.
An In Vitro Evaluation of the Red Cell Damage and Hemocompatibility of Different Central Venous Catheters
Authors: Ihan Alojz , Grosek Stefan , Stubljar David
Published: April 2020

Background. The aim of our study was to evaluate the damaging impact of characteristics of the central venous catheters (CVCs) on red blood cells. Methods. CVCs from three different manufacturers were analyzed, including the presence of coating, tunnel geometry, length, lumen diameter, and number of lumens with two respective flow rates (33 mL/min and 500 mL/min). Blood cell damage was defined by analyzing microparticle (MP) and hematologic analysis. MPs were isolated by ultracentrifugation of erythrocyte concentrate and analyzed on a flow cytometer. Results. Characteristics of catheters were not associated with blood cell damage at a low flow rate but showed an effect with a high flow rate. CVCs with a polyhexanide methacrylate coating have caused statistically less blood cell damage than noncoated CVCs. The length of lumens, diameter, and geometry of the tunnel showed no differences in blood cell damage. Meanwhile, the number of lumens was predicted to have a greater effect on the erythrocyte damage, which was revealed with the formation of MPs and hematological parameters. CVCs with five lumens caused significantly less damage to the blood cells than CVCs with a single lumen. Moreover, a high flow rate of 500 mL/min caused less damage to the blood cells than a low rate of 33 mL/min. Conclusion. Properties of CVCs are an important factor for quality patient care, especially when transfusing blood with high flow rates, as we want to provide a patient with high‐quality blood with as few damaged cells as possible.
Green Scheduling of Jobs and Flexible Periods of Maintenance in a Two-Machine Flowshop to Minimize Makespan, a Measure of Service Level and Total Energy Consumption
Authors: Assia Sadiqi , El Abbassi Ikram , El Barkany Abdellah , Darcherif Moumen , El Biyaali Ahmed
Published: April 2020

The success of an industry today depends on its ability to innovate. In terms of energy performance, this innovation is reflected in the ability of manufacturers to implement new solutions or technologies that enable better energy management. In this regard, this paper aims to address this gap by incorporating energy consumption as an explicit criterion in flowshop scheduling of jobs and flexible preventive maintenance. Leveraging the variable speed of machining operations leading to different energy consumption levels, we explore the potential for energy saving in manufacturing. We develop a mixed integer linear multiobjective optimization model for minimizing the makespan and the total energy consumption. In the literature, no papers considering both production scheduling and flexible periods of maintenance with minimizing both objective the total of energy consumption in flowshop and makespan. The performance of the proposed mixed binary integer programming model is evaluated based on the exact method of branch and bound algorithm. A study of the results proved the performance of the model developed.
Collagen Scaffold with Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Remarkably Improves Intrauterine Adhesions in a Rat Model
Authors: Liu Yanhui , Cai Jing , Luo Xiaoqing , Wen Haiping , Luo Yueyu
Published: April 2020

Background: Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is the second leading cause of secondary infertility in women. Research has shown that stem cells can promote endometrial regeneration and that biomaterials are also helpful in tissue regeneration. Therefore, we compared the efficacy of a collagen scaffold combined with either human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSC) or estrogen for the treatment of IUA. Methods: The IUA-induced rats were injected with hUCMSCs or estrogen, and with a collagen scaffold. The endometrial glands and amount of fibrosis were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining. The extent of fibrosis and levels of regeneration-related cytokines were examined by real-time quantitative PCR, and the expression levels of the estrogen receptor, KI67 and cytokeratin were analyzed using an immunochemistry assay. In addition, human nuclear antigen (HuNu) and vimentin were examined by immunofluorescence microscopy. Results: The collagen scaffold administered with hUCMSCs markedly increased the number of endometrial glands and reduced the area of fibrosis compared with either the collagen scaffold or hUCMSCs alone. In addition, the collagen scaffold with hUCMSCs significantly regulated the expression levels of fibrosis, estrogen, and differentiation-related genes relative to the collagen scaffold or hUCMSCs alone. Furthermore, the hUCMSCs alone or in combination with the collagen scaffold increased the expression of HuNu and vimentin in the IUA-induced rat model. In addition, protein levels of the p-transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif, stromal cell-derived factor-1, and C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 were upregulated in the group that received the collagen scaffold in combination with ­hUCMSCs. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the combination of the collagen scaffold with hUCMSCs may be an alternative approach for treating IUA.