bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective effects of blue light-blocking shades on phototoxicity in human ocular surface cells
Authors: Niwano Yoshimi , Iwasawa Atsuo , Tsubota Kazuo , Ayaki Masahiko , Negishi Kazuno
Published: May 2019

Objective

Blue light hazards for retina and ocular surface have been repeatedly described and many protective methods are introduced for retina; however, no study has been conducted on ocular surface protection. The purpose of this in vitro study was to examine phototoxicity and shade protection after blue light irradiation in primary human cells of corneal surface origin.

Methods and analysis

Primary human cells of corneal surface origin were obtained from eye bank eyes. After blue light irradiation (405 nm) of these cells for 3 min, and a further 24 hours’ incubation, surviving viable cells were assessed by the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay. Simultaneously, cell viability was determined in wells covered by ultraviolet and blue light shades.

Results

Under subconfluent conditions, viable cells decreased by around 50% after blue light irradiation, compared with control cells without irradiation. The blue light phototoxicity was not blocked by the control shade, but the ultraviolet-blocking and blue light-blocking shades protected the cells from phototoxicity, producing a 30%–40% reduction (ultraviolet) and 15%–30% reduction (blue light) in viable cells.

Conclusion

These results indicate that blue light injures ocular surface cells and the cells are protected from damage by a shade. We recommend blue light protection to maintain ocular health, especially in high-risk populations, such as people with dry eye, contact lens users, the malnourished and the elderly.
Cornell product is an ECG marker of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Tan Eugene SJ , Chan Siew Pang , Xu Chang Fen , Yap Jonathan , Richards Arthur Mark , Ling Lieng Hsi , Sim David , Jaufeerally Fazlur , Yeo Daniel , Loh Seet Yoong , Ong Hean Yee , Leong Kui Toh Gerard , Ng Tze Pin , Nyunt Shwe Zin , Feng Liang , Okin Peter , Lam Carolyn SP , Lim Toon Wei
Published: May 2019

Objective

ECG markers of heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) are lacking. We hypothesised that the Cornell product (CP) is a risk marker of HFpEF and has prognostic utility in HFpEF.

Methods

CP =[(amplitude of R wave in aVL+depth of S wave in V3)×QRS] was measured on baseline 12-lead ECG in a prospective Asian population-based study of 606 healthy controls (aged 55±10 years, 45% men), 221 hypertensive controls (62±9 years, 58% men) and 242 HFpEF (68±12 years, 49% men); all with EF ≥50% and followed for 2 years for all-cause mortality and HF hospitalisations.

Results

CP increased across groups from healthy controls to hypertensive controls to HFpEF, and distinguished between HFpEF and hypertension with an optimal cut-off of ≥1800 mm*ms (sensitivity 40%, specificity 85%). Age, male sex, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and heart rate were independent predictors of CP ≥1800 mm*ms, and CP was associated with echocardiographic E/e′ (r=0.27, p<0.01) and left ventricular mass index (r=0.46, p<0.01). Adjusting for clinical and echocardiographic variables and log N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), CP ≥1800 mm*ms was significantly associated with HFpEF (adjusted OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.0 to 7.0). At 2-year follow-up, there were 29 deaths and 61 HF hospitalisations, all within the HFpEF group. Even after adjusting for log NT-proBNP, clinical and echocardiographic variables, CP ≥1800 mm*ms remained strongly associated with a higher composite endpoint of all-cause mortality and HF hospitalisations (adjusted HR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2 to 3.5).

Conclusion

The Cornell product is an easily applicable ECG marker of HFpEF and predicts poor prognosis by reflecting the severity of diastolic dysfunction and LV hypertrophy.
Growth performance, carcass composition, leg bones, and digestive system characteristics in Pekin duck broilers fed a diet diluted with whole wheat grain
Authors: Kokoszyński Dariusz , Saleh Mohamed , Bernacki Zenon , Topoliński Tomasz , Andryszczyk Marek , Wirwicki Mateusz
Published: May 2019

A total of 270 Pekin ducks were reared for 49 d to determine the effect of feeding a diluted complete commercial wheat grain diet on live weight, feed intake and conversion, carcass, leg bone, and digestive system traits. Different feeding regimes had a significant effect on the body weight of the ducks aged 35 d and the feed conversion ratio in the period between days 22 and 35 of rearing. Dilution of a complete commercial diet with whole wheat grain had no significant influence on the final live weight (day 49), feed intake, and feed conversion ratio during the entire rearing period. Ducks fed a diet with whole wheat grain had a significantly higher dressing percentage after higher percentage of pectoral muscles, skin with subcutaneous fat, abdominal fat, as well as a significantly lower percentage of carcass remainders at the age of 49 d. Dilution of a complete commercial diet with whole wheat grain had no impact on the length of the respective intestinal sections nor on the weight and percentage share of gizzard, liver, heart, and spleen. However, it significantly lowered the fracture strength of the tibiotarsus, and decreased some dimensions of the femur and tibiotarsus.
The Interaction Between Critical Chain Sequencing, Buffer Sizing, and Reactive Actions in a CC/BM Framework
Authors: Hu Xuejun , Wang Jianjiang , Leng Kaijun
Published: May 2019

In the past decades, the critical chain scheduling and buffer management (CC/BM) methodology has gained widespread acceptance as an emerging project planning and control technique. This paper first presents six priority indices for selecting the optimal critical chain when more than one such chain is possible. Next, we examine four schedule generation schemes for rescheduling, along with two control actions (i.e., expediting work to shorten activity durations and adding emergency resources to bring forward activity start times) for repairing a critical chain schedule whenever activity delays cross the buffer threshold. The main results of our computational experiments include the non-negligible impact of different critical chain sequences on the project robustness measures, the appropriate level of feeding buffer sizes, and the trade-off between different reactive responses in relation to the cost factors or management preferences.
Some information from thermodynamic curvature of Chaplygin gas
Authors: Türkgenç Emine , Yilmaz İhsan
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we study thermodynamic curvature of Chaplygin gas which is one of the dark energy candidates in terms of entropy and temperature. So, we get some information about past universe by considering thermodynamic curvature of Chaplygin gas. In addition to thermodynamic curvature, we study behaviors of test particle in the universe filled with Chaplygin gas.
Development of an Engineering Geology field trip for Civil Engineering students
Authors: Ghail Richard C. , Standing Jamie R.
Published: May 2019

This paper describes and discusses the various elements of a one-week Engineering Geology field trip that has been developed for second-year undergraduate students studying Civil Engineering at Imperial College London. It is an essential component of the education of civil engineers and, as such, is a requirement of the accreditation defined by the Institution of Civil Engineers Joint Board of Moderators (ICE JBM). The trip is structured to develop the students' awareness of geological features and their ability to record and sketch key observations in the field. Having described the geological features, the students are prompted to think about consequent potential engineering hazards relating to them and also the influence of human activity, past and present, on the ground and environment. During the course of the week the students develop their observational and logging skills, with constant staff feedback both outdoors and during summary student presentation sessions in the evenings. A marked progressive improvement has been noted as a consequence of this approach. On the final day of the week the students have to map a coastal section, observing and recording the stratigraphy and significant features such as bedding, discontinuities and faulting, with the latter quantified by measuring quantities such as dip, strike and plunge, as appropriate. The students' work, assessed as part of the field trip, is completed by them and handed in just before final departure at the end of the week, most of it being completed in the field.
Mechanistic basis for loss of water balance in green tree frogs infected with a fungal pathogen
Authors: Wu Nicholas C. , McKercher Callum , Cramp Rebecca L. , Franklin Craig E.
Published: May 2019

Chytridiomycosis, a lethal skin disease caused by the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis ( Bd), disrupts skin function of amphibians, interfering with ionic and osmotic regulation. To regulate fungal loads, amphibians increase their rate of skin sloughing. However, sloughing also causes a temporary loss of ionic and osmotic homeostasis due to disruption of the skin, a key osmoregulatory organ. The combined effects of increased sloughing frequency and chytridiomycosis contribute to the high rates of mortality from Bd infections. However, the mechanisms responsible for the loss of cutaneous osmotic regulation remain unknown. We measured the changes in whole animal water uptake rates, in vitro transcutaneous water fluxes across the ventral skin, and the mRNA expression of epithelial water transport proteins (aquaporins, AQPs) and junctional proteins in Bd-infected and uninfected Litoria caerulea skin. We hypothesize that infected frogs would show reduction/inhibition in cutaneous water transporters responsible for regulating water balance, and sloughing would exacerbate cutaneous water fluxes. We found that infected, nonsloughing frogs had an impaired rate of water uptake and showed increased rates of in vitro water efflux across the ventral skin. In uninfected frogs, the expression of AQPs and junction genes increased significantly with sloughing, which may assist in regulating cutaneous water movements and barrier function in the newly exposed skin. In contrast, infected frogs did not show this postsloughing increase in AQP gene expression. The combination of increased sloughing frequency, impaired water uptake rates, and increased rates of water loss likely contributes to the loss of osmotic homeostasis in frogs infected with Bd.
Role of ADAM17 in kidney disease
Authors: Palau Vanesa , Pascual Julio , Soler Maria José , Riera Marta
Published: May 2019

It is known that the renin-angiotensin system plays a major role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease and renal injury. Within the renin-angiotensin system, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) cleaves ANG II to generate ANG(1–7) peptide, which counteracts the adverse effects of ANG II accumulation. ACE2 can undergo cleavage or shedding to release the catalytically active ectodomain into the circulation by a disintegrin and metalloprotease (ADAM)17, also known as TNF-α-converting enzyme. ADAM17 is involved in many pathological processes such as cancer, inflammatory diseases, neurological diseases, cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis, diabetes, and hypertension. Clinical and experimental studies have shown that ADAM17 is involved in chronic kidney disease (CKD) with a proinflammatory and profibrotic role, suggesting that it could be an important mediator of CKD progression. ADAM17 inhibition attenuates fibrosis and inflammation, suggesting that its inhibition may be a possible new valuable therapeutic tool in fibrotic kidney disease treatment. In addition, in renal disease, some experimental studies have demonstrated that ADAM17 is differently expressed in the kidney. Thus, ADAM17 is highly expressed in distal renal tubules and increased in the whole kidney in diabetic models. In this article, we will review the role of ADAM17 under physiological and pathological conditions. We will mainly focus on the importance of ADAM17 in the context of CKD.
Motor cost affects the decision of when to shift gaze for guiding movement
Authors: Domínguez-Zamora F. Javier , Marigold Daniel S.
Published: May 2019

Frequent gait modifications are often required to navigate our world. These can involve long or wide steps or changes in direction. People generally prefer to minimize the motor cost (or effort) of a movement, although with changes in gait this is not always possible. The decision of when and where to shift gaze is critical for controlling motor actions, since vision informs the brain about the available choices for movement—in this case, where to step. Here we asked how motor cost influences the allocation of gaze. To address this, we had participants walk and step to the center of sequential targets on the ground. We manipulated the motor cost associated with controlling foot placement by varying the location of one target in the lateral direction on a trial-to-trial basis within environments with different numbers of targets. Costlier steps caused a switch from a gaze strategy of planning future steps to one favoring visual feedback of the current foot placement when participants had to negotiate another target immediately after. Specifically, costlier steps delayed gaze shifts away from the manipulated target. We show that this relates to the cost of moving the leg and redirecting the body’s center of mass from target to target. Overall, our results suggest that temporal gaze decisions are affected by motor costs associated with step-to-step demands of the environment. Moreover, they provide insight into what affects the coordination between the eyes and feet for the control of stable and accurate foot placement while walking.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Changes in gait allow us to navigate our world. For instance, one may step long or wide to avoid a spilled drink. The brain can direct gaze to gather relevant information for making these types of motor decisions; however, the factors affecting gaze allocation in natural behaviors are poorly understood. We show how the motor cost associated with a step influences the decision of when to redirect gaze to ensure accurate foot placement while walking.
Identification of Far‐Field Long‐Period Ground Motions Using Phase Derivatives
Authors: Dai Minghui , Li Yingmin , Liu Shuoyu , Dong Yinfeng
Published: May 2019

The characteristics of long‐period ground motions are of significant concern to engineering communities largely due to resonance‐induced responses of long‐period structures to far‐field long‐period ground motions which are excited by the existence of distant sedimentary basins. Classifications of records enable applications of far‐field long‐period ground motions in seismology and engineering practices, such as attenuation models and dynamic analysis of structures. Accordingly, the study herein aims to develop an approach for identifying the far‐field long‐period ground motions in terms of the later‐arriving long‐period surface waves. Envelope delays derived from phase derivatives are employed to determine the later‐arriving long‐period components on the basis of phase dispersion. A quantitative calibration for long‐period properties is defined in terms of the ratio of energy from later‐arriving long‐period components to the total energy of a ground motion. In order to increase the accuracy of candidate far‐field long‐period records caused by sediments, recording stations within basins or plains are collected from the K‐NET and KiK‐net strong‐motion networks. Subsequently, the motions are manually classified into two categories in order to form a training dataset by visual examinations on their velocity waveform. The two predictive variables, including the corner frequency obtained from envelope delays and the corresponding energy ratio, are used for the establishment of the classification criterion. Furthermore, the analysis of classification results provides insight into the causes for discrepancy and verifies the effectiveness of the proposed method. Finally, comparisons of the mean normalized acceleration response spectrum with respect to the predictors, as well as the local site effects, are performed.
Soil Improvement of EPBS Construction in High Water Pressure and High Permeability Sand Stratum
Authors: Wang Shimin , Lu Xixi , Wang Xianming , He Chuan , Xia Xin , Ruan Lei , Jian Yunqi
Published: May 2019

A mud‐water balance shield is the preferred method for the high permeability and high water pressure stratum, but when restricted by construction and environmental conditions, the shield must be constructed with the earth pressure balance shield (EPBS). The risk of slag spraying is extremely high during construction, and this often results in great hidden dangers that threaten workers’ safety during the construction of the tunnel. Slag improvement is an effective measure to prevent slag spraying, and the relevant research is bringing more and more attention to this activity. Based on the background for the tunnel project of Shangteng‐Dadao Section of the No. 1 line for Fuzhou Rail Transit, ratio method is proposed for the combined application of sodium bentonite‐carboxymethyl cellulose‐polyacrylamide adopted by laboratory test focusing on the challenge of residual soil spraying for earth pressure balance shield under the stratum with high water pressure and high permeability; consequently, the best improvement program is suggested for the construction using earth pressure balance shield on this typical kind of stratum, which can be briefly described as the respective mixing of 2.5% and 0.5% accounting for the sand volume by swelling soil with a concentration of 10%, sodium bentonite‐CMC mixed mud with a concentration of 5%, and polyacrylamide solution with a concentration ranging from 3% to 4%; furthermore, the results for the field application are random inspected.
Investigation on Two-Stop-Line Signalized Roundabout: Capacity and Optimal Cycle Length
Authors: Jiang Ze-hao , Wang Tao , Li Chao-yang , Pan Fei , Yang Xiao-guang
Published: May 2019

Two-stop-line signalized roundabouts (TSLSR) are widely utilized in China. To calculate the capacity and optimal cycle length accurately, a model considering internal space constraint of the roundabout is developed in this paper. Firstly, the operational principle of TSLSR is analyzed. TSLSR is modeled as being equivalent to a four-phase intersection with left-turn protection phases, and the left-turn lane is further simplified as the “short-lane model”. Secondly, based on the above analysis, the capacity of TSLSR is modeled and additionally, the accuracy and sensitivity of the model are also analyzed. Finally, the optimal cycle length of TSLSR which maximizes the capacity is put forward. Results show that the accuracy of the capacity model is low without considering the internal space constraint of the roundabout. However, the model developed in this paper is shown to improve the accuracy (about 20%) and control the relative error to be within 10%. The parameter sensitivity analysis demonstrates that the cycle length and radius of the central island have a significant influence on the capacity of the left-turn lane and results in an optimal value of signal cycle length maximizing the capacity.
Early Recovery of Exercise-Related Muscular Injury by HBOT
Authors: Chen Chen-Yu , Chou Wen-Yi , Ko Jih-Yang , Lee Mel S. , Wu Re-Wen
Published: May 2019

Early recovery from muscular injury is crucial for elite athletes. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been reported to be beneficial in terms of accelerating cell recovery and tissue repair, which are considered to be helpful for eliminating fatigue and recovering stamina. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of HBOT for exercise-related muscular injury. Forty-one athletes with exercise-related muscular injuries were recruited and randomized into an HBOT group and a control group. All participants received 10 sessions of either HBOT or placebo treatment. The brief pain inventory (BPI) was completed, and serum samples were analyzed. Data were collected before treatment (T1), at the end of the fifth treatment session (T2), at the end of the tenth treatment session (T3), and two weeks after T3 (T4). At T3, the HBOT group showed prominent reductions in the levels of creatine phosphokinase (CK), glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), and myoglobin (MB), which lasted until T4. However, the control group did not present any statistical differences in levels from T1 to T4. In terms of pain intensity and interference, the HBOT group showed significant improvements at T3, while no improvements were observed in the control group. In conclusion, HBOT facilitates the early recovery of exercise-related muscular injury. This trial is registered with ISRCTN17817041.
Analysis of a Four‐Firm Competition Based on a Generalized Bounded Rationality and Different Mechanisms
Authors: Askar S. S. , Al-khedhairi A.
Published: May 2019

In this paper, the Caputo derivative with fractional orders is suggested to model a competition among four competing firms. The proposed economic model that describes this competition is constructed based on a generalization of the traditional bounded rationality. In this generalization, we study the influence of memory parameter on the complex behavior of the model. Memory means that we not only take into account the changes in quantities at a current time, but also study the changes occurring in the quantities during an interval of time. For simplicity, it is assumed that the degree of memory is described by one parameter during that interval. The properties of the proposed model such as stability of equilibria, bifurcation, and chaos are studied. Furthermore, we introduce and study the cooperation that may take place among the four firms using Keeney‐Raiffa approach.
Space‐Time Distribution Laws of Tunnel Excavation Damaged Zones (EDZs) in Deep Mines and EDZ Prediction Modeling by Random Forest Regression
Authors: Xie Qiang , Peng Kang
Published: May 2019

The formation process of EDZs (excavation damaged zones) in the roadways of deep underground mines is complex, and this process is affected by blasting disturbances, engineering excavation unloading, and adjustment of field stress. The range of an excavation damaged zone (EDZ) changes as the time and space change. These changes bring more difficulties in analyzing the stability of the surrounding rock in deep engineering and determining a reasonable support scheme. In a layered rock mass, the distribution of EDZs is more difficult to identify. In this study, an ultrasonic velocity detector in the surrounding rock was used to monitor the range of EDZs in a deep roadway which was buried in a layered rock mass with a dip angle of 20–30°. The space‐time distribution laws of the range of EDZs during the excavation process of the roadway were analyzed. The monitoring results showed that the formation of an EDZ can be divided into the following stages: (1) the EDZ forms immediately after the roadway excavation, which accounts for approximately 82%–95% of all EDZs. The main factors that affect the EDZ are the blasting load, the excavation unloading, and the stress adjustment; (2) as the roadway excavation continues, the range of the EDZs increases because of the blasting excavation and stress adjustment; (3) the later excavation zone has a comparatively larger EDZ value; and (4) an asymmetric supporting technology is necessary to ensure the stability of roadways buried in layered rocks. Additionally, the predictive capability of random forest modeling is evaluated for estimating the EDZ. The root‐mean‐square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) are used as reliable indicators to validate the model. The results indicate that the random forest model has good prediction capability (RMSE = 0.1613 and MAE = 0.1402).
Congestion-Adaptive and Delay-Sensitive Multirate Routing Protocol in MANETs: A Cross-Layer Approach
Authors: Gawas Mahadev A. , Gudino Lucy J. , Anupama K. R
Published: May 2019

With a growing demand of multimedia communication over MANETs, to support quality of service (QoS), the MAC standards such as 802.11a/b/g operate with multiple data rates to efficiently utilize the limited resources. Since the wireless channel is shared among the neighbors in MANETs, determining delay-sensitive and congestion-aware routes using the IEEE 802.11 MAC is still a challenging problem. This paper proposes a novel cross-layer approach called congestion-adaptive and delay-sensitive multirate (CADM) routing protocol in MANETs. The CADM protocol exploits the cross-layer interaction between the network layer, MAC, and physical layer. The CADM accesses the correlation between data rate, congestion metric, and MAC delay in delay-sensitive applications to provide enhanced network efficiency in MANETs. The protocol discovers multiple node-disjoint routes and facilitates optimal data rates between the links based on the estimated delay to admit a flow with the certain delay requirement in multirate MANETs. The proposed CADM protocol discovers the route through less congested nodes and also actively handles the congestion if it occurs. The performance of the CADM protocol is comprehensively assessed through the simulation, which highlights the advantages of our cross-layer mechanism.
Effect of Chaihu Shugan Powder-Contained Serum on Glutamate-Induced Autophagy of Interstitial Cells of Cajal in the Rat Gastric Antrum
Authors: Tan Ren-Qian , Zhang Zhi , Ju Jing , Ling Jiang-Hong
Published: May 2019

Gastrointestinal (GI) motility disorder is caused by excessive autophagy of the interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC). Chaihu Shugan Powder (CSP) is a traditional Chinese medicine with therapeutic benefits in GI motility disorders; however, the underlying mechanism of its therapeutic effect in GI disorders, especially autophagy of ICC, remains unclear. Thus, this study investigated the effects of CSP-contained serum on glutamate-induced autophagy in rat gastric ICC, exploring its underlying mechanism. In vitro cultured rat stomach ICC were identified by fluorescence microscopy and then stimulated with glutamate (5 mmol/L) for 3 h to establish the autophagy model. These cells were then treated with 10% CSP-containing serum or the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA; 5 mmol/L) for 24 h. The control group was cultured with only 10% serum containing physiological saline. The viability of ICC was measured by the CCK-8 assay. The ultrastructure and autophagosomes of ICC were observed using transmission electron microscopy. LC3 expression was detected by immunofluorescence, and LC3, Beclin1, Bcl2, and PI3KC3 expression was detected by western blot analysis. Transmission electron microscopy showed abundant endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and other organelles in the control group, whereas the cells in the autophagy model control group had clear autophagic vacuoles, which were not apparent in both CSP and 3-MA groups. ICC viability was significantly increased by CSP and 3-MA interventions (P < 0.01), accompanied by a decrease in LC3 fluorescence (P < 0.01). Moreover, the expression levels of LC3II/I, Beclin1, and PI3KC3 were significantly decreased (all P < 0.01) with CSP and 3-MA treatment, while Bcl2 expression level was higher than that of the model group (P < 0.01). Thus, CSP can reduce autophagic damage by enhancing Bcl2 expression and downregulating the expression of LC3, Beclin1, and PI3KC3 to protect ICC. These results highlight the potential of CSP in the treatment of GI motility disorders.
IL-7 is a Key Driver Cytokine in Spondyloarthritis?
Authors: Gonçalves Rafaela Silva Guimarães , Duarte Angela Luzia Branco Pinto
Published: May 2019

The rationale for a type 17 signature in the pathogenesis of spondyloarthritis (SpA) has been increasing and being ratified in studies recently. IL-7 is a cytokine whose ability to stimulate IL-17 production in both innate and adaptive immunity cells has made it a promising target not only for a better understanding of the disease as well as an important potential therapeutic target in patients with SpA.
The Impact of Vibration Therapy Interventions on Skin Condition and Skin Temperature Changes in Young Women with Lipodystrophy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Pilch Wanda , Czerwińska-Ledwig Olga , Chitryniewicz-Rostek Joanna , Nastałek Magdalena , Krężałek Piotr , Jędrychowska Dominika , Totko-Borkusewicz Natalia , Uher Ivan , Kaško Dávid , Tota Łukasz , Tyka Anna , Tyka Aleksander , Piotrowska Anna
Published: May 2019

Background. Cellulite affects 85-98% of women aged over 20 years. In a given context, mechanical vibrations have not been applied in the therapy of gynoid lipodystrophy (GL) until now. The aim of this pilot study was to assess the condition and temperature of skin affected by cellulite after vibration therapy interventions in young women with GL. Methods. 10 healthy women (21.5 ± 1.5 years old) with stage 1 or 2 Nürnberger-Müller scale of severity of GL participated in the study. The subjects underwent 20 vibration interventions with the use of a Rehabilitation Massage Device Vitberg+. Vibration therapy was applied 5 times a week for 60 minutes during 4-week period. Before and after first and last interventions, grade of lipodystrophy was assessed and thermographic images were taken. Results. Visual and palpation analysis performed before and after a series of treatments proved a total cellulite remission after the intervention among 40% of subjects (from stage 1 to stage 0). Among the remaining 60% with stage 2 of cellulite, an improvement in the skin condition was observed, and cellulite grade was determined as stage 1. The mean skin temperature in the lateral part of thigh as well as on the posterior surface of thigh and buttocks increased significantly (p<0.00001) after both the first (respectively: 4.0°C ± 0.9°C, 3.9°C ± 0.8°C) and the last vibration therapy interventions (respectively: 3.1°C ± 1.1°C, 2.8°C ± 1.1°C). After the series of interventions, a statistical significant (p=0.00705) increase in the mean skin temperature in the lateral thigh was observed—before the first treatment: 27.9°C ± 0.7°C; before twentieth treatment: 29.0°C ± 1.2°C. Conclusion. The series of vibration interventions contributed to the reduction of GL among the participants. The thermographic imaging analysis proved an impact of both single and serial vibration interventions.
Use of Ceftolozane/Tazobactam in a Case of Septic Shock by Puerperal Sepsis
Authors: Pezzi Mario , Scozzafava Anna Maria , Giglio Anna Maria , Vozzo Renata , Casella Patrizia Dina , Tiburzi Simona Paola , Cosco Lucio , Verre Mario
Published: May 2019

Multiresistant bacteria infections cause widespread morbidity and mortality and lead to an increase in expenses for hospital stays and complications. We describe the case of a 27-year-old patient with puerperal sepsis after cesarean section due to Escherichia coli complicated by multiresistant Klebsiella ESBL-producing superinfection with septic shock and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, successfully treated with ceftolozane/tazobactam.
Feasible Sanitary Sewer Network Generation Using Graph Theory
Authors: Turan Mustafa Erkan , Bacak-Turan Goksen , Cetin Tulin , Aslan Ersin
Published: May 2019

A graph theory‐based methodology is proposed for the sewer system optimization problem in this study. Sewer system optimization includes two subproblems: layout optimization and hydraulic design optimization, which can be solved independently or solved simultaneously. No matter which method is chosen for the solution of the optimization problem, a feasible layout that satisfies the restrictions of the sewer system must be obtained in any step of the solution. There are two different layout options encountered: the layouts containing all sewer links and the layouts not containing all sewer links. The method proposed in this study generates a feasible sewer layout that contains all sewer links and satisfies all restrictions of a sanitary sewer system by using graph theory without any additional strategies unlike other studies. The method is applied to two different case studies. The results of the case studies have shown that graph theory is well applicable to sewer system optimization and the methodology proposed based on it is capable of generating a feasible layout. This study is expected to stimulate the use of graph theory on similar studies.
Evaluation of Antibacterial Effect againstPorphyromonas gingivalisand Biocompatibility of Essential Oil Extracted from the Gum ofPistacia atlantica Kurdica
Authors: Azeez Shokhan H. , Gaphor Shanaz M.
Published: May 2019

Objective. This study investigates the antibacterial effect of essential oil extracted from the gum ofPistacia atlantica KurdicaagainstPorphyromonas gingivalisand histological evaluation of an experimental gel of the extract in wound healing in the back subcutaneous tissue of Wistar rats.Methods. Clinical strains of bacteria obtained from subgingival plaque samples of individuals having periodontitis, isolation, and confirmation were done by conventional microbiological tests and molecular technique. Essential oil was extracted by using hydrodistillation method; antibacterial activity has been determined by two fold serial dilution method. Histological evaluation conducted on fifteen Wistar rats. Incisions were made on the dorsal surface of each animal for implanting of 3 polysilicone tubes (empty, tetracycline gel, and the experimental gel). After 1, 4, and 8 weeks, the animals were euthanized and the specimens were prepared histologically.Result. The extract demonstrated antimicrobial effect and significant wound healing in the different study durations particularly our product showed progression in epidermal wound healing and decrease in cellularity and scoring of inflammatory cells.Conclusion. The extract was able to pose inhibitory and bactericidal activity againstP. gingivalisand the experimental gel was able to have a good wound healing that enable it to be considered as a compatible material.
Computational Analysis of Protein Structure Changes as a Result of Nondeletion Insertion Mutations in Humanβ-Globin Gene Suggests Possible Cause ofβ-Thalassemia
Authors: Qadah Talal , Jamal Mohammad Sarwar
Published: May 2019

Beta-thalassemia is described as a group of hereditary blood disorders characterized by abnormalities in the synthesis of beta chains of hemoglobin. These anomalies result in different phenotypes ranging from moderate to severe clinical symptoms to no symptoms at all. Most of the defects in hemoglobin arise directly from the mutations in the structuralβ-globin gene(HBB).Recent advances in computational tools have allowed the study of the relationship between the genotype and phenotype in many diseases includingβ-thalassemia. Due to high prevalence ofβ-thalassemia, these analyses have helped to understand the molecular basis of the disease in a better way. In this direction, a relational database, named HbVar, was developed in 2001 by a collective academic effort to provide quality and up-to-date information on the genomic variations leading to hemoglobinopathies and thalassemia. The database recorded details about each variant including the altered sequence, hematological defects, its pathology, and its occurrence along with references. In the present study, an attempt was made to investigate nondeletion mutations in theHBBpicked up from HbVar and their effects using the in silico approach. Our study investigated 12 nucleotides insertion mutations in six different altered sequences. These 12 extra nucleotides led to the formation of a loop in the protein structure and did not alter its function. It appears that these mutations act as ‘silent’ mutations. However, furtherin vitrostudies are required to reach definitive conclusions.
Melittin Inducing the Apoptosis of Renal Tubule Epithelial Cells through Upregulation of Bax/Bcl-2 Expression and Activation of TNF-α Signaling Pathway
Authors: Shu Ying , Yang Yingying , Zhao Yuliang , Ma Liang , Fu Ping , Wei Tiantian , Zhang Ling
Published: May 2019

Background. Acute kidney injury (AKI) caused by bee stings is common, with characteristics of acute onset, severe illness, and high mortality. Melittin, a major component of bee venom, has been considered to play a key role in bee sting related AKI. This study aims to illustrate whether melittin could lead to apoptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) and to investigate its mechanism. Methods. In vivo, 45 mice were randomly divided into the melittin group (n=30, injected with melittin into the tail vein according to the total dose of 4.0 ug/g weight) and the control group (n=15, injected with the same volume of saline into the tail vein). In vitro, human RTECs (HK-2) were cultured and treated with melittin (2ug/ml or 4ug/ml) and TNF-α (10ng/ml). Biochemical analysis, HE stains, and electron microscope were performed to evaluate renal function and pathological changes. TUNEL stains and flow cytometry were performed to detect apoptosis. Real-time PCR was performed to detect mRNA levels of Bax, Bcl-2, and TNF-α. Simple western assay and immunohistochemical (IH) and immunofluorescent (IF) stains were performed for protein detection. Results. Melittin successfully induced AKI in mice. Compared with the control group, obvious injury and apoptosis of RTECs were observed in the melittin group; the mRNA and protein expressions of Bax were significantly increased, while the expression of Bcl-2 was significantly decreased. The serum TNF-αlevel in melittin group was significantly higher than that in control group. In vitro, the results confirmed that melittin can cause HK-2 cells apoptosis. The trends of expression of Bax and Bcl-2 were consistent with the results in vivo. The levels of TNF-α mRNA and protein by PCR and Western blot were significantly higher in melittin group than those in control group. Conclusion. Melittin can lead to the apoptosis of RTECs, which may be mediated by upregulating the expression of Bax/Bcl-2 and activating the TNF-α signaling pathway.
Sirt1 in the Regulation of Interferon Gamma in Severe Aplastic Anemia
Authors: Lin Xiaoyun , Liu Chunyan , Wang Ting , Wang Huaquan , Shao Zonghong
Published: May 2019

Recent studies have indicated that Sirt1 plays critical roles in the suppression of inflammation, T cell activation, and differentiation of hematopoietic progenitor cells. Severe aplastic anemia (SAA) is an immune-mediated disease that is characterized by elevated cytotoxic lymphocytes and type 1 cytokines. As a negative effector cytokine, interferon gamma (IFNγ) takes part in aplastic anemia through its inhibitory effect on hematopoiesis. In this study, we investigated the role of Sirt1 in the regulation of IFNγ in patients with SAA. A significant decrease in relative SIRT1 (p< 0.05) and increase in IFNG (p< 0.05) expression levels was observed in the sorted CD8+T cells of SAA patients compared to the controls. There was a significant negative correlation (r = –0.53, p < 0.05) between SIRT1 and IFNG expression in SAA patients. SRT3025, a Sirt1 activator, was shown to significantly reduce IFNγ (p < 0.01) and elevate Sirt1 (p < 0.05) expression in the CD8+T cells of SAA patients, and also showed a therapeutic role in an aplastic anemia mouse model. In conclusion, the defective Sirt1 may be correlated to the abnormal IFNγ expression in SAA patients, and activation of Sirt1 signaling may help improve the inflammatory status of SAA.
Prostaglandin E2 Regulates Activation of Mouse Peritoneal Macrophages by Staphylococcus aureus through Toll-Like Receptor 2, Toll-Like Receptor 4, and NLRP3 Inflammasome Signaling
Authors: Wu Jindi , Liu Bo , Mao Wei , Feng Shuang , Yao Yuan , Bai Fan , Shen Yuan , Guleng Amu , Jirigala Bayin , Cao Jinshan
Published: May 2019

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), an essential endogenous lipid mediator for normal physiological functions, can also act as an inflammatory mediator in pathological conditions. We determined whether Staphylococcus aureus lipoproteins are essential for inducing PGE2 secretion by immune cells and whether pattern recognition receptors mediate this process. PGE2 levels secreted by mouse peritoneal macrophages infected with the S. aureus isogenic mutant, lgt::ermB (Δlgt; deficient in lipoprotein maturation), decreased compared with those from macrophages infected with wild-type (WT) S. aureus. Experiments using toll-like receptors 2 (TLR2)-deficient, TLR4-deficient, and NLRP3-deficient mice indicated that these 3 proteins are involved in macrophage PGE2 secretion in response to S. aureus, and lipoproteins were essential for S. aureus invasion and survival within macrophages. Inhibition of endogenous PGE2 synthesis had no effect on bacterial invasion. Exogenous PGE2 inhibited phagocytosis in the WT S. aureus and its isogenic mutant but increased intracellular killing accompanied by enhanced IL-1β secretion. Our data demonstrate that S. aureus can induce macrophage TLR/mitogen-activated protein kinase/NF-κB signaling and that PGE2 treatment upregulates NLRP3/caspase-1 signaling activation. Thus, macrophage PGE2 secretion after S. aureus infection depends on bacterial lipoprotein maturation and macrophage receptors TLR2, TLR4, and NLRP3. Moreover, exogenous PGE2 regulates S. aureus-induced macrophage activation through TLRs and NLRP3 inflammasome signaling.
Exploration of the Product of the 5-Point Investigator’s Global Assessment and Body Surface Area (IGA × BSA) as a Practical Minimal Disease Activity Goal in Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis
Authors: Gottlieb Alice B. , Germino Rebecca , Herrera Vivian , Meng Xiangyi , Merola Joseph F.
Published: May 2019

Background/Aims: In the treat-to-target era, psoriasis disease activity measures that can be easily performed in routine clinical practice are needed. This retrospective pooled analysis explored cutoff values of the product of the 5-point Investigator’s Global Assessment and percentage of affected body surface area (IGA × BSA) correlating with achievement of minimal disease activity (MDA). Methods: Post hoc analysis of the phase 3 clinical trials ERASURE, FIXTURE, FEATURE, and JUNCTURE was conducted to determine associations between IGA × BSA and 2 MDA definitions (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index [PASI] 90 and Dermatology Life Quality Index [DLQI] 0/1, or PASI score ≤1 or BSA <3%) in patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis receiving secukinumab 300 mg. For each definition of MDA, a range of possible cutoff values of IGA × BSA was examined at each time point. The optimal cutoff value was determined using Youden index (YI), calculated as (sensitivity + specificity – 1). Results: For MDA defined as PASI 90 and DLQI 0/1, optimal IGA × BSA cutoffs were 2.10 at week 12 (YI, 0.60; sensitivity, 0.78; specificity, 0.82), 1.02 at week 24 (YI, 0.55; sensitivity, 0.73; specificity, 0.82), and 1.00 at week 52 (YI, 0.65; sensitivity, 0.79; specificity, 0.86). For MDA defined as PASI score ≤1 or BSA <3%, optimal IGA × BSA cutoffs were 2.98 at week 12 (YI, 0.91; sensitivity, 0.99; specificity, 0.92), 2.80 at week 24 (YI, 0.94; sensitivity, 0.99; specificity, 0.95), and 3.00 at week 52 (YI, 0.96; sensitivity, 1.00; specificity, 0.96). Conclusion: IGA × BSA could be a valid measure highly associated with achievement of MDA.
Complementary and Integrative Medicine in Nursing Homes: Results of a Cross-Sectional Study in Residents and Caregivers
Authors: Ortiz Miriam , Schnabel Katharina , Binting Sylvia , Fischer Herbert Felix , Teut Michael , Suhr Ralf , Brinkhaus Benno
Published: May 2019

Objective: Some nursing homes for the elderly in Germany integrate complex complementary and integrative medicine interventions in the form of hydrotherapy, herbal and mind-body therapies, physical activities, and healthy eating, known as Kneipp therapy (KT), in care. This pilot study explored health- and work-related characteristics and acceptance of KT amongst residents and caregivers. Methods: Within a mixed-methods cross-sectional study in nursing homes who had integrated KT, we assessed work ability, psychosocial burden at work and health-related quality of life of caregivers, as well as a broad selection of health-related data of residents by questionnaires and assessments. Data were analyzed descriptively. Results: The data from 29 female caregivers (42.0 ± 11.7 years) and 64 residents (83.2 ± 8.1 years) were analyzed. Both caregivers (96%) and residents (89%) considered KT to be beneficial for health and well-being. Ninety percent of the caregivers indicated an improved relationship to residents since implementing KT. Caregivers showed a good work ability and quality of life. Residents attained remarkable ratings in social relation and affect-related aspects of quality of life. Conclusion: The results of this cross-sectional study indicate a high acceptance of integrating KT by residents and caregivers. The effectiveness and safety of KT should be explored in further comparative studies.
A 46,XY Female with a 9p24.3p24.1 Deletion and a 8q24.11q24.3 Duplication: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Bruni Valentina , Roppa Katia , Scionti Francesca , Apa Rosalbina , Sestito Simona , Di Martino Maria T. , Pensabene Licia , Concolino Daniela
Published: May 2019

Deletion of distal 9p is associated with a rare clinical condition characterized by dysmorphic features, developmental delay, and ambiguous genitalia. The phenotype shows variable expressivity and is related to the size of the deletion. 8q24 duplication has been reported in only few cases to date, all showing dysmorphic features and mild psychomotor developmental delay. A case of chromosomal aberration involving a 9p terminal deletion with an 8q duplication has never been reported. Here, we describe a child with a female phenotype, male karyotype, dysmorphic features, ambiguous genitalia, and developmental delay. In order to assess the cause of the patient's phenotype, conventional karyotyping, FISH, and a chromosomal microarray analysis were performed on the patient and her parents. The cytogenetic and molecular analysis revealed an unbalanced chromosomal aberration with a duplication in the long arm of chromosome 8 at 8q24.11q24.3 associated with a distal deletion in the short arm of chromosome 9 at 9p24.3p24.1, derived from a maternal balanced translocation. We compared the clinical picture of our patient with other similar cases reported in the literature and found that some clinical findings, such as strabismus, symphalangism of the first finger, and cubitus valgus, have never been previously associated with 9p deletion or 8q duplication expanding the phenotypic range of this condition. This study is aimed to better define the clinical history and prognosis of patients with this rare chromosomal aberration.