bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inguinal Paravascular (Lumbar Plexus) Neurolytic Block—Description of a Catheter Technique: Case Report
Authors: Kaki Abdullah M. , Lewis Geraint W.
Published: March 2019

Background and Objectives

We provided care for a 47-year-old female with a history of lung carcinoma and bony metastases who sustained a pathologic fracture of the right acetabulum causing severe and uncontrolled pain in the right groin. Her pain was rated as 8-10 on a 10-point visual analog scale (VAS). Her terminal disease and poor surgical risk precluded therapeutic operative intervention. Consequently, a neurolytic block of the lumbar plexus was performed as a palliative measure.

Methods

A modified inguinal paravascular (lumbar plexus) block technique was used. A 17-gauge Tuohy needle was inserted in the groin area just lateral to femoral artery and 1 cm below the inguinal ligament. A guide wire was threaded through the needle and subsequently an angiogram catheter was introduced over the wire into the psoas muscle. Radiographic confirmation of the position was obtained, and the catheter was secured in place. A prognostic block using an infusion of 0.25% bupivacaine at 5 mL/h was initiated for the first 2 days. On the third day a neurolytic block with 6% phenol was performed.

Results

Marked pain relief was experienced by the patient (VAS: 0-1). Sensory block in the femoral, lateral femoral cutaneous, and obturator nerve distributions was elicited. Motor weakness in the femoral nerve was demonstrated. Narcotic use was markedly reduced, and the patient was discharged to home in a pain-free state.

Conclusions

This case report supports the feasibility of placing a catheter via a modified anterior inguinal paravascular block technique and its subsequent use for both local anesthetic infusion and neurolytic block of the lumbar plexus.
Homocysteine-lowering exercise effect is greater in hyperhomocysteinemic people living with HIV: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Oliveira Vitor H.F. , Rosa Flávia Troncon , Wiechmann Susana , Narciso Argéria Maria Serraglio , Webel Allison R. , Franzói de Moraes Solange Marta , Deminice Rafael
Published: March 2019

Elevated concentration of homocysteine has been identified as an independent risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease and is frequently associated with oxidative stress. Moreover, studies have shown that people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) present elevated concentration of homocysteine and oxidative stress compared with people without HIV. Our purpose was to describe blood homocysteine and oxidative stress markers in PLHIV and those without HIV infection, and to examine the effects of a 16-week combined training exercise program (CTE) on oxidative stress and homocysteine concentrations of PLHIV. We included 49 PLHIV (21 men, 28 women) and 33 people without HIV infection (13 men, 20 women). After baseline evaluations, 30 PLHIV were randomized to either CTE (trained group, n = 18) or the control group (n = 12); CTE consisted of aerobic and strength exercise sessions during 16 weeks, 3 times a week. Plasma homocysteine, oxidative damage markers, folate, and vitamin B12were assessed pre- and post-training and by hyperhomocysteinemia (homocysteine ≥ 15 μmol/L) status. At baseline, PLHIV had higher levels of homocysteine and malondialdehyde, as well as reduced circulating folate when compared with people without HIV infection. CTE resulted in a 32% reduction (p < 0.05) in homocysteine concentration and a reduction in lipid hydroperoxide in PLHIV with hyperhomocysteinemia, which was not observed in those without hyperhomocysteinemia. Hyperhomocysteinemic participants experienced a 5.6 ± 3.2 μmol/L reduction in homocysteine after CTE. In summary, 16 weeks of CTE was able to decrease elevated homocysteine concentration and enhance redox balance of PLHIV with hyperhomocysteinemia, which could improve their cardiovascular risk.
Performance enhancement of field effect transistor without doping junctions using In0.3Ga0.7As/GaAs for analog/RF applications
Authors: Fallahnejad Mohammad , Vadizadeh Mahdi , Salehi Alireza
Published: March 2019

Reduction of transconductance related to the junctionless silicon (JL-Si) transistor shows challenges to its performance for analog/radio frequency (RF) applications. An effective way to increase the transconductance of JL-Si device without reducing its performance is to use III–V semiconductor materials with a high carrier mobility/velocity instead of silicon. In the present study, the application of In[Formula: see text]Ga[Formula: see text]As/GaAs structures is proposed in order to enhance the transconductance of double gate JL (DG-JL) with channel length of 10 nm and body thickness of 5 nm. The importance of the thickness of In[Formula: see text]Ga[Formula: see text]As layer as well as the indium mole fraction on the electrical characteristics of the proposed device is shown in terms of the transconductance by a numerical simulator. By decreasing the thickness of the In[Formula: see text]Ga[Formula: see text]As layer down to 1 nm for a specified mole fraction of 0.3, a maximum transconductance of 1.7 mS/um was obtained. Comparing the results of JL-In[Formula: see text]Ga[Formula: see text]As/GaAs device with JL-GaAs, JL-In[Formula: see text]Ga[Formula: see text]As and JL-Si structures, an increase of 21%, 18% and 44% in transconductance, respectively, was found. Moreover, simulation results show that the proposed structure exhibits output resistance of 300 G[Formula: see text], intrinsic gain of 32.5 dB and unity gain cut-off frequency of 513 GHz. Thus, the JL-In[Formula: see text]Ga[Formula: see text]As/GaAs device can be a good candidate for analog/RF applications.
DFT and QSAR investigations of substituent effects in pyrazolooxazine derivatives: Activity prediction
Authors: Haddadi Zehira , Meghezzi Hacene , Amar Anissa , Boucekkine Abdou , Bennamane Norah , Nedjar-Kolli Bellara , Belaidi Salah , Kerassa Aicha
Published: March 2019

The theoretical investigation of the physico-chemical properties of pyrazolooxazine derivatives, which could exhibit anti-inflammatory activity, has been carried out using DFT computations at the B3LYP/6-311[Formula: see text]G (d, p) level. It appears that both pyrazolooxazin-2-one (1) and pyrazolooxazin-2-thione (2) exhibit thermal stability whereas the electron donating character of the latter is higher than that of the former species. Molecular electrostatic potential surfaces (MESP) have been used in order to determine the activity sites of these species. The HSAB (Hard and Soft Acids and Bases) principle helped to determine the reactivity as well as the effect of substituting groups on the molecules. The stability of these compounds has been analyzed using natural bond orbital analyses NBO. Then, the structure-activity properties of a large series of derivatives were investigated using the HyperChem 8.0.6 software considering the Lipinski’s “rule of five”. The results of QSAR analyses showed that the most promising compound among others, named f1 (a thiophen ring being attached to the nitrogen atom 3 of 1) should be a good candidate for experimental testing.
A Penny Is Worth a Thousand? Investigating the Relationship Between Social Media and Penny Stocks
Authors: Lo Kar Kei , Chau Michael
Published: March 2019

Increasingly more investors are seeking information from social media to help make investment decisions. Considering that information on penny stocks is often less reported in traditional media, investors may rely more on social media to obtain such information for investment advice. Although previous research has shown that stock opinions in traditional media is a possible predictor of stock returns, no previous research has considered the effect of the stock opinions in social media on these stocks in terms of future stock performance and the moderation effect of penny stocks. In this research, we studied the relationship between social media and the financial performance of penny stocks. We used the net proportion of positive words in stock articles in social media to help predict the future stock performance for penny stocks. The moderation effect of penny stocks on the net fraction of positive words was found to be significant in short terms, revealing a stronger relationship between social media and stock performance at lower price and market capitalization (MC) levels. Based on the findings, we proposed simple strategies utilizing social media and our measure. The results of our applications will be of interest to individual and institutional investors, shareholders, and regulators.
Recent Developments in Nanosensors for Imaging Applications in Biological Systems
Authors: Rong Guoxin , Tuttle Erin E. , Neal Reilly Ashlyn , Clark Heather A.
Published: March 2019

Sensors are key tools for monitoring the dynamic changes of biomolecules and biofunctions that encode valuable information that helps us understand underlying biological processes of fundamental importance. Because of their distinctive size-dependent physicochemical properties, materials with nanometer scales have recently emerged as promising candidates for biological sensing applications by offering unique insights into real-time changes of key physiological parameters. This review focuses on recent advances in imaging-based nanosensor developments and applications categorized by their signal transduction mechanisms, namely, fluorescence, plasmonics, MRI, and photoacoustics. We further discuss the synergy created by multimodal nanosensors in which sensor components work based on two or more signal transduction mechanisms.
A novel measure of glucose homeostasis (or loss thereof) comprising the joint dynamics of glucose, insulin, glucagon, and cortisol
Authors: Keenan Daniel M. , Veldhuis Johannes D. , Basu Ananda , Basu Rita
Published: March 2019

Quantification of disturbances in glucose-insulin homeostasis has been the cornerstone of appraising insulin resistance and detecting early-stage diabetes. Metabolic homeostasis arises from feedback and feed-forward interactions among (at least) all four of glucose, insulin, glucagon, and cortisol. Quantifying such tetrapartite interactions in the fasting (endogenously regulated) state overnight could elucidate very early regulatory disruption. In the present study, healthy subjects without diabetes (ND; n = 20) and patients with Type 2 diabetes (T2D; n = 21) were investigated by repeated overnight blood sampling of all four of glucose, insulin, glucagon, and cortisol concentrations. To obviate confounding by hormone-specific disappearance rates, analyses were performed at the level of production (glucose) or secretion (insulin, glucagon, and cortisol) rates estimated by regularized deconvolution analysis. Then, a novel method for quantifying the loss of homeostasis among glucose, insulin, and glucagon (and, when available, cortisol) secretion patterns was developed. Potential early stage prediabetic candidates were identified. The new methodology avoids many of the difficulties encountered in the conventional estimation of insulin-glucose sensitivity or resistance, while incorporating the dynamics of the key coregulators under fasting conditions.
Muscle and serum metabolomes are dysregulated in colon-26 tumor-bearing mice despite amelioration of cachexia with activin receptor type 2B ligand blockade
Authors: Lautaoja Juulia H. , Lalowski Maciej , Nissinen Tuuli A. , Hentilä Jaakko , Shi Yi , Ritvos Olli , Cheng Sulin , Hulmi Juha J.
Published: March 2019

Cancer-associated cachexia reduces survival, which has been attenuated by blocking the activin receptor type 2B (ACVR2B) ligands in mice. The purpose of this study was to unravel the underlying physiology and novel cachexia biomarkers by use of the colon-26 (C26) carcinoma model of cancer cachexia. Male BALB/c mice were subcutaneously inoculated with C26 cancer cells or vehicle control. Tumor-bearing mice were treated with vehicle (C26+PBS) or soluble ACVR2B either before (C26+sACVR/b) or before and after (C26+sACVR/c) tumor formation. Skeletal muscle and serum metabolomics analysis was conducted by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Cancer altered various biologically functional groups representing 1) amino acids, 2) energy sources, and 3) nucleotide-related intermediates. Muscle metabolomics revealed increased content of free phenylalanine in cancer that strongly correlated with the loss of body mass within the last 2 days of the experiment. This correlation was also detected in serum. Decreased ribosomal RNA content and phosphorylation of a marker of pyrimidine synthesis revealed changes in nucleotide metabolism in cancer. Overall, the effect of the experimental C26 cancer predominated over blocking ACVR2B ligands in both muscle and serum. However, the level of methyl phosphate, which was decreased in muscle in cancer, was restored by sACVR2B-Fc treatment. In conclusion, experimental cancer affected muscle and blood metabolomes mostly independently of blocking ACVR2B ligands. Of the affected metabolites, we have identified free phenylalanine as a promising biomarker of muscle atrophy or cachexia. Finally, the decreased capacity for pyrimidine nucleotide and protein synthesis in tumor-bearing mice opens up new avenues in cachexia research.
Differential Harnack Estimates for a Semilinear Parabolic System
Authors: Wu Hui
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we prove differential Harnack inequalities for positive solutions of a semilinear parabolic system on hyperbolic space. We use the inequalities to construct classical Harnack estimates by integrating along space-time.
One-Step Synthesis of CaO-ZnO Efficient Catalyst for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Toledo Arana Javier , Torres Juan José , Acevedo Diego F. , Illanes Cristian O. , Ochoa Nelio A. , Pagliero Cecilia L.
Published: March 2019

Biodiesel is the best candidate for fuel oil replacement, and to obtain it, heterogeneous catalysts offer large advantages: they can be separated from the product and reused. This work reviews a novel one-step synthesis of CaO-ZnO catalytic particles suitable for biodiesel production. The catalyst is synthesized using an original simple method that involves mixing of ZnO with CaCO3 and subsequent calcination. The CaO-ZnO microparticles obtained present an average size of 2 μm. This material shows the characteristic crystallographic cubic structure of CaO and the hexagonal phase of ZnO. The temperature-programmed reduction experiment evidences an interaction between CaO and ZnO. Moreover, the infrared spectroscopy shows typical bands of these compounds. The catalyst shows high biodiesel yield, up to 73% in the first cycle and 64% in the second one. In this work, the synthesis of an efficient CaO-ZnO catalyst with a huge potential is revealed, which could be an economic alternative to produce biodiesel.
Primary Cardiac Sarcoma: A Rare, Aggressive Malignancy with a High Propensity for Brain Metastases
Authors: Siontis Brittany L. , Zhao Lili , Leja Monika , McHugh Jonathan B. , Shango Maryann M. , Baker Laurence H. , Schuetze Scott M. , Chugh Rashmi
Published: March 2019

Introduction. Primary cardiac sarcoma (PCS) has a poor prognosis compared to other sarcomas due to late presentation, challenging resection, incidence of metastases, and limited efficacy of systemic therapies.Methods. A medical record search engine was queried to identify patients diagnosed with PCS from 1992 to 2017 at the University of Michigan.Results. Thirty-nine patients with PCS had a median age of 41 years (range 2–77). Common histologies were angiosarcoma (AS, 14), high-grade undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS, 10), and leiomyosarcoma (LMS, 5). Sites of origin were left atrium (18), right atrium (16), and pericardium (5). AS was the most common right-sided tumor; UPS was more common on the left. Eighteen patients presented with metastases involving lung (10), bone (7), liver (5), and brain (4). Twenty-five patients underwent resection, achieving 3 R0resections. Patients received a median of 2 (1–6) systemic therapies. Median overall survival (OS) was 12.1 months (range 0–79). Median OS was 14.0 months and 8.2 months in patients who did or did not undergo resection, respectively (p=0.018). Brain metastases occurred in 12 (31%) patients, 9 (75%) of whom had left heart tumors, at a median of 8.5 months (range 0–75) from diagnosis. Median OS was 5.6 months (range 0–30) after the diagnosis of brain metastases.Conclusions. PCS portends a poor prognosis, because of difficulty in obtaining complete resection of sarcoma, advanced stage at diagnosis, and high risk of brain metastases. Providers should be aware of the increased risk of brain metastases and consider brain imaging at diagnosis and follow-up.
Exploring the Involvement of NLRP3 and IL-1βin Osteoarthritis of the Hand: Results from a Pilot Study
Authors: Fioravanti Antonella , Tenti Sara , McAllister Megan , Chemaly Melody , Eakin Amanda , McLaughlin Joseph , Bjourson Anthony J. , Frati Elena , McGilligan Victoria , Cheleschi Sara , Gibson David S.
Published: March 2019

Hand osteoarthritis (HOA) includes different subsets; a particular and uncommon form is erosive HOA (EHOA). Interleukin- (IL-) 1βplays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA); it is synthesized as an inactive precursor which requires the intervention of a cytosolic multiprotein complex, named inflammasome, for its activation. The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of IL-1βand the NOD-like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in patients with EHOA and nonerosive HOA (NEHOA) compared to healthy controls. In particular, we evaluated the gene expression of IL-1βand NLRP3, the serum levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, and tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-)α, and the protein levels of IL-1βand NLRP3. We also assessed the relationships between IL-1βand NLRP3 and clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings. Fifty-four patients with HOA (25 EHOA and 29 NEHOA) and 20 healthy subjects were included in the study. Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) gene and protein expressions of IL-1βand NLRP3 were quantified by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, and TNF-αserum levels were determined by ELISA. IL-1βgene expression was significantly reduced (p=0.0208) in EHOA compared to healthy controls. NLRP3 protein levels were significantly increased in the NEHOA group versus the control (p=0.0063) and EHOA groups (p=0.0038). IL-1βserum levels were not significantly different across the groups; IL-6, IL-17, and TNF-αwere not detectable in any sample. IL-1βconcentrations were negatively correlated with the Kellgren-Lawrence score in the whole population (r=−0.446;p=0.0008) and in NEHOA (r=−0.608;p=0.004), while IL-1βgene expression was positively correlated with the number of joint swellings in the EHOA group (r=0.512;p=0.011). Taken together, our results, showing poorly detectable IL-1βconcentrations and minimal inflammasome activity in the PBMCs of HOA patients, suggest a low grade of systemic inflammation in HOA. This evidence does not preclude a possible involvement of these factors at the local level.
A Stress-Strain Model for Unconfined Concrete in Compression considering the Size Effect
Authors: Yang Keun-Hyeok , Lee Yongjei , Mun Ju-Hyun
Published: March 2019

In this study, a stress-strain model for unconfined concrete with the consideration of the size effect was proposed. The compressive strength model that is based on the function of specimen width and aspect ratio was used for determining the maximum stress. In addition, in stress-strain relationship, a strain at the maximum stress was formulated as a function of compressive strength considering the size effect using the nonlinear regression analysis of data records compiled from a wide variety of specimens. The descending branch after the maximum stress was formulated with the consideration of the effect of decreasing area of fracture energy with the increase in equivalent diameter and aspect ratio of the specimen in the compression damage zone (CDZ) model. The key parameter for the slope of the descending branch was formulated as a function of equivalent diameter and aspect ratio of the specimen, concrete density, and compressive strength of concrete. Consequently, a rational stress-strain model for unconfined concrete was proposed. This model reflects trends that the maximum stress and strain at the peak stress decrease and the slope of the descending branch increases, when the equivalent diameter and aspect ratio of the specimen increase. The proposed model agrees well with the test results, irrespective of the compressive strength of concrete, concrete type, equivalent diameter, and aspect ratio of the specimen.
Effects of the Highly COX-2-Selective Analgesic NSAID Etoricoxib on Human Periodontal Ligament Fibroblasts during Compressive Orthodontic Mechanical Strain
Authors: Kirschneck Christian , Küchler Erika Calvano , Wolf Michael , Spanier Gerrit , Proff Peter , Schröder Agnes
Published: March 2019

Human periodontal ligament (hPDL) fibroblasts play a major role during periodontitis and orthodontic tooth movement, mediating periodontal inflammation, osteoclastogenesis, and collagen synthesis. The highly COX-2-selective NSAID etoricoxib has a favorable systemic side effect profile and high analgesic efficacy, particularly for orthodontic pain. In this in vitro study, we investigated possible side effects of two clinically relevant etoricoxib concentrations on the expression pattern of mechanically strained hPDL fibroblasts and associated osteoclastogenesis in a model of simulated orthodontic compressive strain occurring during orthodontic tooth movement. hPDL fibroblasts were incubated for 72 h under physiological conditions with etoricoxib at 0 μM, 3.29 μM, and 5.49 μM, corresponding to clinically normal and subtoxic dosages, with and without mechanical strain by compression (2 g/cm2) for the final 48 h, simulating conditions during orthodontic tooth movement in compressive areas of the periodontal ligament. We then determined gene and/or protein expression of COX-2, IL-6, PG-E2, RANK-L, OPG, ALPL, VEGF-A, P4HA1, COL1A2, and FN1 via RT-qPCR, ELISA, and Western blot analyses as well as apoptosis, necrosis, cell viability, and cytotoxicity via FACS, MTT, and LDH assays. In addition, hPDL fibroblast-mediated osteoclastogenesis was assessed by TRAP staining in coculture with RAW267.4 cells for another 72 h. Gene and protein expression of all evaluated factors was significantly induced by the mechanical compressive strain applied. Etoricoxib at 3.29 μM and 5.49 μM significantly inhibited PG-E2synthesis, but not COX-2 and IL-6 gene expression nor RANK-L-/OPG-mediated osteoclastogenesis or angiogenesis (VEGF-A). Extracellular matrix remodeling (COL1A2, FN1) and bone anabolism (ALPL), by contrast, were significantly stimulated particularly at 5.49 μM. In general, no adverse etoricoxib effects on hPDL fibroblasts regarding apoptosis, necrosis, cell viability, or cytotoxicity were detected. Clinically dosed etoricoxib, that is, a highly selective COX-2 inhibition, did not have substantial effects on hPDL fibroblast-mediated periodontal inflammation, extracellular matrix remodeling, RANK-L/OPG expression, and osteoclastogenesis during simulated orthodontic compressive strain.
Quantitative Proteomic Analysis of Human Seminal Plasma from Normozoospermic and Asthenozoospermic Individuals
Authors: Wu Yibo , Yuan Yan , Chen Ling , Wang Min , Yang Yong , Wang Yingnan , Quan Chao , Chen Daozhen , Chen Ying , Huang Xiaoyan , Zhou Tao
Published: March 2019

Seminal plasma is a complex mixture of secretions from various glands in the male genital tract. Compared to sperm cells, it contains important proteins that are both directly and indirectly associated with sperm motility. Here, we constructed quantitative proteomes of human seminal plasma from three normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic individuals. A total of 524 proteins were identified, and 366 of them were found to be quantified in all six samples. We first investigated the absolute expression features of these proteins and found that the variations of protein identification among different samples and other published datasets were mainly due to some lowly expressed proteins. By integration of various proteomic datasets and bioinformatics databases, we comprehensively annotated the biological functions, physiological originations, and disease associations of these proteins. We found that our dataset could benefit the studies of both male infertility and other male diseases. Finally, based on the relative expression values determined by chemical labeling, we identified a total of 29 differentially expressed proteins, which could be used as candidate targets for studying the molecular bases of sperm motility or developing precise diagnostic biomarkers of asthenozoospermia. We further successfully verified the expression trends of four representative proteins by Western blotting. Compared to a previous dataset based on label-free quantification, our results showed that most of the important proteins could be identified in the sample collected only once for each individual, providing the bases for personalized examination of seminal plasma proteins in clinic.
Uniaxial Damaged Plastic Constitutive Relation of Recycled Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Hu Xiaobin , Lu Qinwang , Cheng Shanshan
Published: March 2019

This paper presents a proposed uniaxial damaged plastic constitutive relation of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) based on the experimental studies. A total of five groups of RAC specimens with different recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) replacement percentages of 0, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%, respectively, are tested under both monotonic loading and cyclic loading. The effect of the RCA replacement percentage is thoroughly investigated on a variety of mechanical properties, including the compressive strength, the peak strain, and the elastic modulus. Based on the test results, a uniaxial damage plastic constitutive relation of the RAC is proposed within the continuous thermodynamics framework. After validated by the experimental results, the proposed damaged plastic constitutive relation of the RAC is applied to perform nonlinear analysis of the RAC columns under cyclic loading, which provides close predictions of the hysteresis behavior of the RAC columns.
Lingual and Maxillary Labial Frenuloplasty with Myofunctional Therapy as a Treatment for Mouth Breathing and Snoring
Authors: Govardhan Chirag , Murdock Janine , Norouz-Knutsen Leyli , Valcu-Pinkerton Sanda , Zaghi Soroush
Published: March 2019

Chronic mouth breathing may adversely affect craniofacial development in children and may result in anatomical changes that directly impact the stability and collapsibility of the upper airway during sleep. Mouth breathing is a multifactorial problem that can be attributed to structural, functional, and neurological etiologies, which are not all mutually exclusive. While therapeutic interventions (myofunctional, speech and swallowing, occupational, and craniosacral therapy) may address the functional and behavioral factors that contribute to mouth breathing, progress may sometimes be limited by restrictive lingual and labial frenum that interfere with tongue and lip mobility. This case report explores the case of a three-year-old girl with mouth breathing, snoring, noisy breathing, and oral phase dysphagia that was successfully treated with lingual and labial frenuloplasty as an adjunct to myofunctional therapy. Within four days of the procedure, the patient had stopped snoring and demonstrated complete resolution of open mouth breathing. The patient was also observed to have increased compliance with myofunctional therapy exercises. This report highlights the effectiveness of surgical interventions to improve the efficacy of myofunctional therapy in addressing open mouth posture and low tongue resting position.
Extreme Spectra Realization by Nonsymmetric Tridiagonal and Nonsymmetric Arrow Matrices
Authors: Pickmann-Soto H. , Arela-Pérez S. , Egaña Juan C. , Soto Ricardo L.
Published: March 2019

We consider the following inverse extreme eigenvalue problem: given the real numbers and the real vector x(n) = (x1, x2, …, xn), to construct a nonsymmetric tridiagonal matrix and a nonsymmetric arrow matrix such that are the minimal and the maximal eigenvalues of each one of their leading principal submatrices, and is an eigenpair of the matrix. We give sufficient conditions for the existence of such matrices. Moreover our results generate an algorithmic procedure to compute a unique solution matrix.
Potential Research Tool of Stem Cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth: Lentiviral Bmi-1 Immortalization with EGFP Marker
Authors: Yao Siqi , Tan Lingping , Chen Huan , Huang Xiaojun , Zhao Wei , Wang Yan
Published: March 2019

Stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) are a favourable source for tissue engineering, for its great proliferative capacity and the ease of collection. However, the transplantation of stem cells and the study of stem cell-based tissue engineering require massive stem cells. After long-term expansion, stem cells face many challenges, including limited lifespan, senescence, and loss of stemness. Therefore, a cell line capable of overcoming those problems should be built. In this study, we generated a Bmi-1-immortalized SHED cell line with an enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) marker (SHED-Bmi1-EGFP) using lentiviral transduction. We compared this cell line with the original SHED for cell morphology under a microscope. The expression of Bmi-1 was detected with Western blot. Replicative lifespan determination and colony-forming efficiency assessment were using to assay proliferation capability. Senescence-associated β-galactosidase assay was performed to assay the senescence level of cells. Moreover, multipotency, karyotype, and tumour formation in nude mice of SHED and SHED-Bmi1-EGFP were also tested. Our results confirmed that Bmi-1 immortalization did not affect the main features of SHED. SHED-Bmi1-EGFP could be passaged for a long time and stably expressed EGFP. SHED-Bmi1-EGFP at a late passage showed low activity of β-galactosidase and similar multilineage differentiation as SHED at an early passage. The immortalized cells had no potential tumourigenicity ability in vivo. Moreover, we provided some suggestions for potential applications of the immortalized SHED cell line with the EGFP marker. Thus, the immortalized cell line we built can be used as a functional tool in the lab for long-term studies of SHED and stem cell-based regeneration.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A Potential Therapeutic Approach for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis?
Authors: Gugliandolo Agnese , Bramanti Placido , Mazzon Emanuela
Published: March 2019

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the degeneration of both upper and lower motor neurons. Patients show both motor and extra-motor symptoms. A cure is not available at this time, and the disease leads to death within 3–5 years, mainly due to respiratory failure. Stem cell therapy is arising as a new promising approach for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. In particular, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) seem the most suitable type of stem cells, thanks to their demonstrated beneficial effects in different experimental models, to the easy availability, and to the lack of ethical problems. In this review, we focused on the studies involving ALS rodent models and clinical trials in order to understand the potential beneficial effects of MSC transplantation. In different ALS rodent models, the administration of MSCs induced a delay in disease progression and at least a partial recovery of the motor function. In addition, clinical trials evidenced the feasibility and safety of MSC transplantation in ALS patients, given that no major adverse events were recorded. However, only partial improvements were shown. For this reason, more studies and trials are needed to clarify the real effectiveness of MSC-based therapy in ALS.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Nasal Colonization among Healthcare Workers at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Southwestern Uganda
Authors: Abimana Justus B. , Kato Charles D. , Bazira Joel
Published: March 2019

Whereas Staphylococcus aureus is a pathogen, it colonizes healthy people as normal flora without causing any symptoms or illness. Probably because of greater exposure, healthcare workers (HCWs) are more colonized, serving as reservoir for endogenous infections as well as dissemination. In developing countries including Uganda, there is scarcity of the literature on S. aureus carriage among HCWs, making infection control difficult. This study aimed at determining the nasal carriage rate and comparing the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) isolates from HCWs of Kampala International University Teaching Hospital. Nasal swab specimens from HCWs were screened for MRSA using both phenotypic and genotypic methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the MRSA and MSSA isolates was performed using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method. Out of the 97 participants, 28 (28.8%) participants were nasal carriers of S. aureus of which 13 (46.4%) were phenotypically MRSA (resistant to cefoxitin) and 8 (28.6%) were genotypically MRSA (had mecA gene). Only 6 isolates of the 13 isolates (46%) which showed resistance to cefoxitin had mecA gene detectable while 2 (13.3%) of the 15 cefoxitin susceptible isolates were found to carry mecA gene. The study thus shows that methicillin resistance in S. aureus may not only be determined by mecA gene.
Extensive Use of 3D Nonfluoroscopic Mapping Systems for Reducing Radiation Exposure during Catheter Ablation Procedures: An Analysis of 10 Years of Activity
Authors: Marini Massimiliano , Martin Marta , Ravanelli Daniele , Del Greco Maurizio , Quintarelli Silvia , Guarracini Fabrizio , Coser Alessio , Valentini Aldo , Bonmassari Roberto
Published: March 2019

Purpose. 3D nonfluoroscopic mapping systems (NMSs) are generally used in the catheter ablation (CA) of complex ventricular and atrial arrhythmias. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and long-term effect of the extended, routine use of NMSs for CA. Methods. Our study involved 1028 patients who underwent CA procedures from 2007 to 2016. Initially, CA procedures were performed mainly with the aid of fluoroscopy. From October 2008, NMSs were used for all procedures. Results. The median fluoroscopy time of the overall CA procedures fell by 71%: from 29.2 min in 2007 to 8.4 min in 2016. Over the same period, total X-ray exposure decreased by 65%: from 58.18 Gy⁎cm2 to 20.19 Gy⁎cm2. This reduction was achieved without prolonging the total procedure time. In AF CA procedures, the median fluoroscopy time fell by 85%, with an 86% reduction in total X-ray exposure. In SVT CA procedures, the median fluoroscopy time fell by 93%, with a 92% reduction in total X-ray exposure. At the end of the follow-up period, the estimated probability of disease-free survival was 67.7% at 12 months for AF CA procedures and 97.2% at 3 months for SVT CA, without any statistically significant difference between years. Conclusions. Our study shows the feasibility of using NMSs as the main imaging modality to guide CA. The extended, routine use of NMSs dramatically reduces radiation exposure, with only slight fluctuations due to the process of acquiring experience on the part of untrained operators, without affecting disease-free survival.
Computing the Weighted Isolated Scattering Number of Interval Graphs in Polynomial Time
Authors: Li Fengwei , Zhang Xiaoyan , Ye Qingfang , Sun Yuefang
Published: March 2019

The scattering number and isolated scattering number of a graph have been introduced in relation to Hamiltonian properties and network vulnerability, and the isolated scattering number plays an important role in characterizing graphs with a fractional 1‐factor. Here we investigate the computational complexity of one variant, namely, the weighted isolated scattering number. We give a polynomial time algorithm to compute this parameter of interval graphs, an important subclass of perfect graphs.
Maternal Common Mental Disorder as Predictors of Stunting among Children Aged 6-59 Months in Western Ethiopia: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Girma Shimelis , Fikadu Teshale , Abdisa Eba
Published: March 2019

Background. Child malnutrition in low- and middle-income countries still continues to be an alarming. Africa and Asia bear the greatest share of all forms of malnutrition. The association between maternal common mental disorder and stunting has not been studied well even in developed countries; much less in developing countries and even the findings are conflicting. Thus, the purpose of the present research was to investigate the relationship of maternal common mental disorder and child stunting. Methods. Institution based unmatched case-control study design was employed from March to April 2017. Two hundred thirty-four sampled children (78 cases and 156 controls) were randomly selected. Anthropometric measurements (height/length and weight) were taken by calibrated instruments. Maternal common mental disorder (CMD) was measured by using the locally validated Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20). Data entry was done by Epi data version 3.1 and analysis was done by SPSS 21.0 statistical software. Result. Finding of this study found out about three-fourths of cases (71.8%) and three-fourths of controls (69.9%) were residing in rural and urban areas, respectively. Regarding maternal common mental disorder, more than half of cases mother (53.8%) and more than one-tenth of controls mother (13.5%) were found to have common mental disorder. The study showed that children of mothers who had common mental disorder were found to be three times more likelihood of developing stunting than children whose mothers had not common mental disorder. Conclusion and Recommendation. The study indicated that maternal common mental disorder was significantly associated with stunting. Therefore, emphasis should be given in preventing, managing, and maintaining maternal mental health in order to prevent stunting.
A Study on Rotary Friction Welding of Titanium Alloy (Ti6Al4V)
Authors: My Nu Ho Thi , Le Truyen The , Minh Luu Phuong , Loc Nguyen Huu
Published: March 2019

The selection of high-strength titanium alloys has an important role in increasing the performance of aerospace structures. Fabricated structures have a specific role in reducing the cost of these structures. However, conventional fusion welding of high-strength titanium alloys is generally conducive to poor mechanical properties. Friction welding is a potential method for intensifying the mechanical properties of suitable geometry components. In this paper, the rotary friction welding (RFW) method is used to study the feasibility of producing similar metal joints of high-strength titanium alloys. To predict the upset and temperature and identify the safe and suitable range of parameters, a thermomechanical model was developed. The upset predicted by the finite element simulations was compared with the upset obtained by the experimental results. The numerical results are consistent with the experimental results. Particularly, high upset rates due to generated power density and forging pressure overload that occurred during the welding process were investigated. The performances of the welded joints are evaluated by conducting microstructure studies and Vickers hardness at the joints. The titanium rotary friction welds achieve a higher tensile strength than the base material.
Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Encephalitis as Paraneoplastic Manifestation of Germ-Cells Tumours: A Cases Report and Literature Review
Authors: Rita Claudia Geraldine , Nieto Gañan Israel , Jimenez Escrig Adriano , Carrasco Sayalero Ángela
Published: March 2019

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is the most common form of autoimmune encephalitis, caused by the interaction between an antibody and its target, located on glutamate receptor type N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) of neuronal surface. There is a wide spectrum of clinical features starting by a viral-like prodrome, followed by symptoms such as psychosis, aggressive behaviour, memory loss, seizures, movement disorders, and autonomic instability. Up to 50% of the affected young female patients have germ-cells tumours as ovarian teratoma, making it essential to establish an early diagnosis through detection of specific antibodies in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This retrospective observational study was performed in patients whom positive anti-NMDA receptor antibodies have been tested, associated with clinical manifestations that suggest autoimmune encephalitis and a germ-cell tumour confirmed by pathology. Six patients have tested positive for anti-NMDA receptor antibodies associated with a germ-cell tumour and clinical manifestations of autoimmune encephalitis. Management includes aggressive immunosuppression and surgical removal.
Prognostic Value of Concomitant Bronchiectasis in Newly Diagnosed Diffuse Panbronchiolitis Patients on a Maintenance Therapy with Macrolides
Authors: Xu Benyong , Mao Yanhua , Wan Xiaoyu , Chen Jianhui , Ye Meiping , Zhan Mengling , Xu Liyun , Zhao Lan , Li Bing , Zhang Zhemin , Liu Yang , Chu Haiqing
Published: March 2019

Background. Factors determining the prognosis of diffuse panbronchiolitis (DPB) remain unclear at present. The objective of this study was to identify the prognostic value of concomitant bronchiectasis in the macrolide treatment efficacy and exacerbation risk in DPB patients. Methods. Data of patients initially diagnosed with DPB at the Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital between January 2007 and December 2017 were retrospectively collected and analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups according to the existence of bronchiectasis. Clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, microbiological culture results, as well as exacerbation risks and treatment outcomes, were compared between these two groups. The survival curve and Cox regression analysis models were additionally constructed to further demonstrate the predicting role of bronchiectasis in DPB exacerbation. Results. Baseline data revealed more respiratory symptoms, lower body mass index (BMI), and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) as well as increased isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) in DPB subjects with bronchiectasis than those without. Furthermore, bronchiectasis was associated with a lower rate of responsiveness to macrolides and increased exacerbation frequency during follow-up. The survival curve and Cox regression analysis showed that comorbid bronchiectasis was linked to increased time to episode relapse, which remained significant even after controlling for BMI, FEV1, and P. aeruginosa culture results. Conclusion. The coexistence of bronchiectasis predicted a poor outcome of maintenance macrolide therapy and an increased exacerbation risk in DPB subjects, possibly through its impacts on nutritional status, pulmonary function, and P. aeruginosa infections.
Nicorandil Attenuates LPS-Induced Acute Lung Injury by Pulmonary Endothelial Cell Protection via NF-κB and MAPK Pathways
Authors: He Mengyu , Shi Wen , Yu Min , Li Xiang , Xu Jian , Zhu Jiali , Jin Linling , Xie Weiping , Kong Hui
Published: March 2019

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a devastating critical disease characterized by diffuse inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. Increasing evidence, including from our laboratory, has revealed that the opening of ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels has promising anti-inflammation and endothelial protection activities in various disorders. However, the impacts of KATP channels on ALI remain obscure. In this study, we used nicorandil (Nico), a classic KATP channel opener, to investigate whether opening of KATP channels could alleviate ALI with an emphasis on human pulmonary artery endothelial cell (HPAEC) modulation. The results showed that Nico inhibited lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced inflammatory response, protein accumulation, myeloperoxidase activity, and endothelial injury. In vitro, Nico reduced LPS-induced HPAEC apoptosis and the expression of cleaved-caspase-3, caspase-9, and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP). Additionally, Nico inhibited inflammation by suppressing monocyte-endothelial adhesion and decreasing the expression of proinflammatory proteins. Moreover, Nico restored the expression and the distribution of adherens junction vascular endothelial- (VE-) cadherin. Further, Nico abolished the increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the activation of NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in HPAECs. Glibenclamide (Gli), a nonselective KATP channel blocker, abrogated the effects of Nico, implying that opening of KATP channels contributes to the relief of ALI. Together, our findings indicated that Nico alleviated LPS-induced ALI by protecting ECs function via preventing apoptosis, suppressing endothelial inflammation and reducing oxidative stress, which may be attributed to the inhibition of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.
High Expression of LTBP2 Contributes to Poor Prognosis in Colorectal Cancer Patients and Correlates with the Mesenchymal Colorectal Cancer Subtype
Authors: Huang Ying , Wang Guihua , Zhao Chunmei , Geng Rong , Zhang Shu , Wang Wei , Chen Jing , Liu Huimin , Wang Xudong
Published: March 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a complex and heterogeneous disease with four consensus molecular subtypes (CMS1-4). LTBP2 is a member of the fibrillin/LTBP super family and plays a critical role in tumorigenesis by activating TGF-β in the CMS4 CRC subtype. So far, the expression and prognostic significance of LTBP2 in CRC remains obscure. In this study, we aimed to analyze the mRNA and protein expression levels of LTBP2 in CRC tissues and then estimate their values as a potential prognostic biomarker. We detected the mRNA expression of LTBP2 in 28 cases of fresh CRC tissues and 4 CRC cell lines and the protein expression of LTBP2 in 483 samples of CRC tissues, matched tumor-adjacent tissues, and benign colorectal diseases. LTBP2 protein expression was then correlated to patients’ clinical features and overall survival. Both LTBP2 mRNA and protein expression levels in CRC tissues were remarkably superior to those in adjacent normal colorectal tissues (P=0.0071 and P<0.001, respectively), according to TCGA dataset of CRC. High LTBP2 protein expression was correlated with TNM stage (P<0.001), T stage (P<0.001), N stage (P<0.001), and M stage (P<0.001). High LTBP2 protein expression was related to poor overall survival in CRC patients and was an independent prognostic factor for CRC. LTBP2 mRNA expression was especially higher in the CMS4 subtype (P<0.001), which was confirmed in CRC cell lines. Our data suggested that LTBP2 may act as an oncogene in the development of colorectal cancer and have important significance in predicting CRC prognosis. LTBP2 could be a novel biomarker and potential therapeutic target for mesenchymal colorectal cancer and can improve the outcome of high-risk CRC.
Structure Properties for Binomial Operators
Authors: Zhang Chungou , Wang Shifen
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we discuss binomial operators structure properties, such as moments representation, derivatives representation, and binary representation and introduce some applications in preservation.