bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on Thermal Unstable Vibration of Rotor under Journal Whirl with Large Amplitude in Journal Bearing
Authors: Hu Qilong , Zhu Min , Yang Jiangang
Published: January 2020

To investigate the thermal unstable vibration caused by journal whirls with large amplitude in journal bearing, an analysis model of lubricant film thickness is established. The journal surface temperature distribution is solved, and the reason for journal surface temperature difference appearance and its influence on rotor vibration are analyzed. Taking a turbogenerator as an example, the journal surface temperature difference and the induced rotor thermal bending under synchronous whirl in the bearing are calculated. Meanwhile, an engineering vibration fault with its treatment is presented. Results show that, the journal surface circumferential temperature difference is caused by viscous shearing within lubricant film under journal whirls with large amplitude in journal bearing. The direction of temperature difference is related to the direction of unbalanced force acting on journal. The temperature difference causes rotor thermal bending, which can be converted to a thermal unbalance on the rotor. The rotor vibration is caused by both thermal and initial unbalance. When the rotor is running below or at the critical speed, the vibration is on the increase until it leads to instability of the rotor eventually. When the rotor is running above the critical speed, the rotor vibration fluctuates periodically. Reducing the initial (mechanical) unbalances decreases the rotor vibration and the journal surface circumferential temperature difference.
Bond Performance of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Bar with Dual Functions of Reinforcement and Cathodic Protection for Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors: Zhou Yingwu , Sui Lili , Xing Feng , Huang Xiaoxu , Zheng Yaowei , Zhao Debo
Published: January 2020

The dual function of a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) bar working as reinforcement and impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) anode for reinforced concrete structures has been proposed and researched in this paper. The ICCP tests with different current densities and polarization durations were first conducted for the concrete with high chloride content. After the ICCP application, pull out tests were then performed to investigate the bond behaviors of CFRP bars. Experimental results have shown the effectiveness of the new-type ICCP system with the CFRP bar as the anode on corrosion protection. The ICCP system provided electrons to the steel bar continuously and brought the potential of the steel bar down to the immunity region. Under the anodic polarization with a large current density of 100 mA/m2, the CFRP bar-concrete interface presented acidification and the chemical adhesion on the interface was decreased significantly. However, for cases in the experiment, the ICCP application had an insignificant influence on the ultimate bond strength.
Robust Hybrid Control Algorithm for Tuning the Altitude and Attitude of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Wang Bohang , Wang Daobo
Published: January 2020

In this article, a new and novel robust hybrid control algorithm is designed for tuning the parameters of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The quadrotor type UAV mathematical model is taken to observe the effectiveness of our designed robust hybrid control algorithm. The robust hybrid control algorithm consists of H∞ based regulation, pole-placement and tracking (RST) controller along with mixed sensitivity function is applied to control the complete model of UAV. The selected rotor craft is under-actuated, nonlinear and multivariable behavior in nature along with six degrees of freedom (DOF). Due to all these aforementioned issues its stabilization is quite difficult as compared to fully actuated systems. For the tuning of nonlinear parameters of the UAV, we designed, robust hybrid control algorithm is used. Moreover, the performance of the designed controller is compared with robust controller. The validity and effectiveness of the designed controllers are simulated in MATLAB and Simulink, in which the designed controller shows better steady state behavior, robustness and converges quickly in specific amount of time as compared to robust controller.
Electroacupuncture and Moxibustion Regulate Hippocampus Glia and Mitochondria Activation in DSS‐Induced Colitis Mice
Authors: Zhang Ning , Zhang Qun , Xie Lushuang , Li Chenyu , Zhuang Zhiqi , Lin Sirui , Lv Peiran , Liu Yi , Wu Qiaofeng , Yu Shuguang
Published: January 2020

Objectives. To study the influence of electroacupuncture (EA) and moxibustion on the hippocampus astrocyte and microglia activation in the ulcerative colitis model and to evaluate the mitochondria activity. Methods. 2.5% dextran sodium sulfate‐induced colitis mice were treated by EA or moxibustion. Intestinal pathological structure was observed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining; the expression of GFAP or S100b (markers for astrocyte), Iba‐1 (a marker for microglia), and Mitofilin (a marker for mitochondria) in hippocampus was detected by immunofluorescence staining or western blot. Results. The results demonstrated that both EA and moxibustion could improve the morphology of distal colonic mucosal epithelia in DSS‐induced colitis mice. Expression of GFAP in the hippocampus was significantly increased after EA or moxibustion treatment. The effects were further supported by WB results. Meanwhile, expression of mitofilin in the hippocampus CA1 and CA3 regions showed the same trend as that of GFAP. Expression of Iba‐1 in the hippocampus showed no significant difference after EA or moxibustion treatment, while the state of microglia changed from resting in control mice to activated state in colitis mice. Conclusion. EA and moxibustion were able to modulate the activation of astrocyte, microglial, and mitochondria in the hippocampus area in the colitis model.
Case Report: TAVI in a Patient with Single Coronary Artery and Bicuspid Valve
Authors: Bertin Murielle , Aboukofa Mohamed , Laterre Pierre Francois , Yousif Zuhair
Published: January 2020

A single coronary artery is a rare congenital abnormality which consists of one coronary artery arising from the aortic trunk by a single coronary ostium and providing the perfusion of the entire myocardium. Its prevalence is approximately 0.024-0.066% of the population undergoing coronary angiography. A bicuspid aortic valve is the most common congenital cardiac abnormality and is found in 0.4-2.25% of the population. The coexistence of these two abnormalities together with severe aortic stenosis is extremely rarer. We report a patient who underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with a single coronary artery and a bicuspid valve. The procedure was successful, and the patient was discharged home without complication. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of these combined abnormalities and TAVI.
Undifferentiated Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Presenting with Shoulder Mass
Authors: Irawan Cosphiadi , Cahyanur Rahmat , Yunus Reyhan Eddy
Published: January 2020

Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) is the most common cancer among head and neck cancer that usually presented with unilateral neck mass. Unusual symptoms of NPC can lead us to diagnosis misleading and delayed definitive treatment. We present a case of NPC with bone metastasis in the shoulder. A 33-year-old female presented with right shoulder mass caused by undifferentiated carcinoma of unknown primary, based on biopsy of shoulder mass. After four months, she was complaining painless neck swelling, headache, and hearing impairment in the left ear. Bone MRI showed malignant bone tumour in the right humerus. Neck CT scan showed mass in the nasopharyngeal and bilateral lymphadenopathy. Biopsy in nasopharyngeal revealed undifferentiated carcinoma of nasopharyngeal cancer (WHO-3 type A). The patient was diagnosed as NPC stage IVb and thus was treated with palliative chemotherapy. After three cycles of cisplatin docetaxel, patient condition improved.
Identification of Urinary Biomarkers for Exercise‐Induced Immunosuppression by iTRAQ Proteomics
Authors: Xu Guoqin , Lin Wentao , McAinch Andrew J , Yan Xu , Weng Xiquan
Published: January 2020

Purpose. To identify noninvasive immune biomarkers of exercise‐induced immunosuppression using the iTRAQ proteomics technique. Methods. Fifteen healthy males were recruited and subjected to a four‐week incremental treadmill running training program. After each week of training, WBC counts and CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes were measured to monitor the immune function status. iTRAQ proteomics technology was used to identify differential proteins and their characteristics in urine. Results. Our data showed that the WBC counts, CD4+ lymphocytes, and CD4+/CD8+ ratio decreased by more than 10% after four weeks of training, suggesting exercise‐induced immunosuppression. A total of 1854 proteins were identified in urine during the incremental running using the iTRAQ technology. Compared with the urine before training, there were 89, 52, 77, and 148 proteins significantly upregulated and 66, 27, 68, and 114 proteins significantly downregulated after each week, respectively. Among them, four upregulated proteins, SEMG‐1, PIP, PDGFRL, and NDPK, increased their abundance with the increased exercise intensity. Bioinformatics analysis indicates that these proteins are involved in stress response and immune function. Conclusion. Four weeks of incremental treadmill running induced immunosuppression in healthy males. By using iTRAQ proteomics, four proteins in the urine, SEMG‐1, PIP, PDGFRL, and NDPK, were found to increase incrementally with the increased exercise intensity, which have the potential to be used as noninvasive immune biomarkers of exercise‐induced immunosuppression.
Biobjective Emergency Logistics Scheduling Model Based on Uncertain Traffic Conditions
Authors: Sun Youqiang , Ren Yeqing , Cai Xingjuan
Published: January 2020

Emergency logistics scheduling appears more and more important in modern society because of frequent occurrence of unpredictable disasters. Most of the existing studies consider a certain emergency logistics scheduling model, and most of them are based on an ideal scenario. Considering the uncertain traffic condition and the real road condition, a biobjective emergency logistics scheduling model is proposed, which includes two objectives: transportation time and transportation cost. The uncertainty of the proposed model is reflected in two aspects: the occurrence time of emergencies and the traffic volume predicted by the cloud model. The numerical characteristics of traffic information are abstracted from the spatial-temporal trajectory data by the reverse cloud model, and the inference procedure of the one-dimension cloud model further predicts the uncertain traffic volume using the numerical characteristics. In addition, the crossover and mutation operators of multiobjective evolutionary algorithms are modified to solve the model. The experimental results show that the inference procedure of one-dimension cloud model can accurately predict the traffic volume at the departure time; and the proposed model is more reasonable than the existing scheduling models; at the same time, the improved NSGA-II can also provide superior schemes in different departure times and traffic conditions for decision makers.
The Accurate Modification of Tunneling Radiation of Fermions with Arbitrary Spin in Kerr-de Sitter Black Hole Space-Time
Authors: Sha Bei , Liu Zhi-E , Tan Xia , Liu Yu-Zhen , Zhang Jie
Published: January 2020

The quantum tunneling radiation of fermions with arbitrary spin at the event horizon of Kerr-de Sitter black hole is accurately modified by using the dispersion relation proposed in the study of string theory and quantum gravitational theory. The derived tunneling rate and temperature at the black hole horizons are analyzed and studied.
Characterization of a Pathogenic Variant in the ABCD1 Gene Through Protein Molecular Modeling
Authors: Richter Jr. John E. , Vadlamudi Charitha , Macklin Sarah K. , Samreen Ayesha , Helmi Haytham , Broderick Daniel , Mohammad Ahmed N. , Hines Stephanie L. , VanGerpen Jay A. , Atwal Paldeep S. , Caulfield Thomas R.
Published: January 2020

Background. The ATP-binding cassette, subfamily D, member 1 (ABCD1) protein is a peroxisomal half-transporter that allows for very long chain fatty acid (VLCFA) degradation. Pathogenic variants of ABCD1 cause VLCFAs to build up in various tissues and bodily fluids, resulting in a disorder called X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD). This disorder is most commonly marked by adrenocortical insufficiency and high VLCFA concentration, and has varying levels of neurological involvement depending on phenotype. For example, the Addison-only form of X-ALD has no neurological impact, while the cerebral form of X-ALD often causes severe sensory loss, motor function impairment, cognitive decline, and death. Methods. A newly characterized and suspected pathogenic variant in ABCD1 was analyzed using our protein informatics platform (PIP). Personalized protein-level molecular studies were completed on genetic testing data, complementing the analysis and clinical study. Results. A case of adult onset adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN) and a novel ABCD1 variant are presented. The unique ABCD1 protein is discussed, and the proband’s case is compared to existing reports of AMN. Conclusions. Data fusion from multiple sources was combined in a comprehensive approach yielding an enriched assessment of the patient’s disease and prognosis. Molecular modeling was performed on the variant to better characterize its clinical significance and confirm pathogenicity.
A Cellular Automaton Model for Pedestrians’ Movements Influenced by Gaseous Hazardous Material Spreading
Authors: Makmul J.
Published: January 2020

A cellular automaton (CA) model is proposed to simulate the egress of pedestrians while gaseous hazardous material is spreading. The advection-diffusion with source term is used to describe the propagation of gaseous hazardous material. It is incorporated into the CA model. The navigation field in our model is determined by the solution of the Eikonal equation. The state transition of a pedestrian relies on the arrival time of cells in the Moore neighborhood. Numerical experiments are investigated in a room with multiple exits, and their results are shown.
New Investigation for the Liu-Story Scaled Conjugate Gradient Method for Nonlinear Optimization
Authors: Hamed Eman T. , Al-Kawaz Rana Z. , Al-Bayati Abbas Y.
Published: January 2020

This article considers modified formulas for the standard conjugate gradient (CG) technique that is planned by Li and Fukushima. A new scalar parameter θkNew for this CG technique of unconstrained optimization is planned. The descent condition and global convergent property are established below using strong Wolfe conditions. Our numerical experiments show that the new proposed algorithms are more stable and economic as compared to some well-known standard CG methods.
Hypothermia during Surgical Treatment of Type A Aortic Dissection: A 16 Years’ Experience
Authors: Macrina Francesco , Acconcia Maria Cristina , Tritapepe Luigi , D’abramo Mizar , Saade Wael , Capelli Alessandra , Miraldi Fabio
Published: January 2020

Acute aortic dissection (AAD) is among the most challenging cases for surgical treatment and requires procedural expertise for its safe conduct. Aortic surgery has undergone several changes over the last years, especially concerning cerebral protection. The brilliant results obtained with the aid of selective anterograde cerebral perfusion led to a progressive increase of circulatory arrest temperature, with the rise of safe time along with a reduction of the extracorporeal circulation time and hypothermia-related side effects. However, there is still no definitive consensus concerning the optimal range of temperature to be used during circulatory arrest. Objectives. This is a retrospective observational study, and we examined 16-year trends in the presentation, diagnosis, hospital outcome and treatment of A AAD type. In our Cardiac Surgery Unit in Policlinico Umberto I of Rome, our analysis focused on patients, who received ACP during aortic surgery and we analyzed the differences between two distinct groups based on the lowest temperature reached during CPB conduction: Lower Temperature Group (LT) (T < 24°C) versus Higher Temperature Group (HT) (T ≥ 24°C) arrest circulation temperature. Methods. Data from 241 patients enrolled between August 2002 and March 2018 were analyzed. Patients were divided according to the lowest temperature reached into 2 groups: Lower Temperature group (LT) (94 patients) and Higher Temperature Group (HT) (147 patients). Results. Our results showed a significant reduction of in-hospital mortality and in-hospital results in patients with higher CPB temperature. The global incidence of complications was statistically reduced in HT group: we found a statistical significant reduction of intestinal ischemia, and a similar trend also for other complications analyzed, such as infections. Since the two groups were similar for type of surgical procedures, we considered these differences depending on the lower temperature value reached, according to the current literature. Conclusions. We found a significantly higher mortality in patients with lower temperature during CPB and a global reduction of complications and in particular a significant reduction of intestinal ischemia in patients with higher temperature during CPB. We found a similar trend in other fields of investigations, so we can conclude that circulatory arrest performed at temperature ≥24°C nasopharyngeal temperature associated with ACP is a safe strategy for aortic surgery for AAD.
Among Adolescents, BDNF and Pro-BDNF Lasting Changes with Alcohol Use Are Stage Specific
Authors: Miguez Maria Jose , Bueno Diego , Espinoza Luis , Chan Wenyaw , Perez Caroline
Published: January 2020

Adolescent alcohol use demonstrates distinct developmental trajectories with dissimilar times of onset and trajectories. Given the importance of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (mature BDNF) in this development stage, the current study investigated its relationship with alcohol use. It also extends the literature by assessing the role of its precursor (pro-BDNF). Therefore, over the span of 5 years, we enrolled and followed participants to define age-related changes in BDNF levels in healthy adolescents. Then, the onset and frequency of alcohol use from ages 11 to 18 were collected to determine how the relationship between alcohol, pro-BDNF, and m-BDNF unfolds over time. With respect to development, analyses demonstrated that BDNF concentration slowly increases throughout adolescence. However, despite having similar basal BDNF levels, compared to controls, adolescents that started drinking before 15 years of age always exhibited lower BDNF levels. They also had a significant decrease in pro-BDNF levels. On the other hand, levels of mature BDNF steadily increased (974.896±275 pg/ml) in those starting alcohol use after the age of 15. Similar to the younger users, a significant drop in pro-BDNF levels was observed over the course of the study. Our results suggested that both pathways may participate in the complex processes of alcohol dependence. The findings highlight the relevance of assessing alcohol-associated changes across the different phases of this vulnerable developmental period. This is the first study evidencing that m-BDNF changes associated with drinking behaviors differed between young and older adolescents. It is also the first article, documenting that drinking during adolescence leads to long-term decreases in pro-BDNF. These results have important implications for policies and programs targeting alcohol use disorders.
Determinants of Implant Utilization among Married Women of Childbearing Age in Chencha Town, Southern Ethiopia, 2017: A Case‐Control Study
Authors: Abera Rahel , Kote Mesfin , Shegaze Mulugeta , Andarge Eshetu , Hussen Sultan
Published: January 2020

Globally, 53% of women in reproductive age group use modern methods of contraception, with less than one percent of which using implants. In Ethiopia and other parts of sub‐Saharan Africa, short‐term contraceptive methods have been more utilized than long‐acting methods like implants. Despite their effectiveness, implants have been underutilized due to various reasons. There is a dearth of stronger evidences on those factors in the country in general and the study area in particular. Therefore, this study aimed to identify determinants of implant utilization among married women of reproductive age at Chencha town, Gamo Gofa Zone, Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region (SNNPR) of Ethiopia. A community‐based case‐control study design was conducted among 324 women of reproductive age, 90 cases (users of implants) and 234 controls (users of short‐acting contraceptives) from July to August 2017. Data were collected using a pretested, structured questionnaire through face‐to‐face interview. The data were entered and coded using Epi info 3.5.1 and then exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 for cleaning and analysis. Descriptive analysis was done to quantify proportions, means, and standard deviations of variables. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were done to identify the determinants of implant utilization. A total of 324 married women of reproductive age group were interviewed with response rate of 98%. In this study, the major determinants for implant utilization were desire to have 3–4 children {AOR = 0.104, 95% CI (0.03, 0.4)}, husband disproval {AOR = 0.11, 95% CI (0.038, 0.314)}, joint decision {AOR = 3.11, 95% CI (1.02, 9.48)}, and decision by other persons {AOR = 0.065, 95% CI (0.012, 0.352)}. This study found out that desire to have more children, husband disapproval, joint decision making, and decision by other persons were determinants of implant utilization among the target women. Implant utilization would improve through strengthening existing interventions targeting women with high fertility desire, transformation of gender norms in household decisions, and counseling for informed decisions.
miR-142-5p as a CXCR4-Targeted MicroRNA Attenuates SDF-1-Induced Chondrocyte Apoptosis and Cartilage Degradation via Inactivating MAPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xiang Yaoyv , Li Yanlin , Yang Lingjian , He Yinghong , Jia Di , Hu Xidan
Published: January 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic joint function disorder with characteristics of chondrocytes reduction and extracellular matrix (ECM) components destruction. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis are essential factors of chondrocyte apoptosis and ECM degeneration. However, very few studies have investigated the correlation between miRNAs and the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis in osteoarthritis so far. Here, through miRNAs microarray and bioinformatics analyses, we identified miR-142-5p as a CXCR4-targeted and dramatically downregulated miRNA in cartilage from OA patients, as well as in SDF-1-induced OA chondrocytes in vitro. In SDF-1-treated primary human OA chondrocytes that were transfected with a miR-142-5p mimic or inhibitor, the expression of CXCR4 was found to be inversely correlated with the expression of miR-142-5p. The dual luciferase reporter assay further verified the target relationship between miR-142-5p and CXCR4. Overexpression of miR-142-5p alleviated OA pathology by suppressing chondrocyte apoptosis, even in CXCR4 overexpressed OA chondrocytes. This was associated with decreased cartilage matrix degradation, reduced cartilage inflammation, and inactivated MAPK signaling pathway. Our study suggests that upregulated expression of CXCR4-targeted miR-142-5p can inhibit apoptosis, inflammation, and matrix catabolism and inactivate the MAPK signaling pathway in OA chondrocytes. Our work provides important insight into targeting miR-142-5p and the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis in OA therapy.
Predictability of a New Orthodontic Extrusion Technique for Implant Site Development: A Retrospective Consecutive Case-Series Study
Authors: Conserva E. , Fadda M. , Ferrari V. , Consolo U.
Published: January 2020

In clinical daily practice, there are situations in which implant sites have vertical and/or horizontal bone defects and often we must improve their morphology and dimensions before fixture insertion. It is crucial to carefully evaluate the surgical site as regards the characteristics of both hard and soft tissues. The orthodontic extrusion technique can be used for nonsurgical augmentation of the implant site as an alternative to traditional regenerative/reparative surgical therapies. The orthodontic extrusion is based on a biological mechanism that uses the portion of periodontal ligament, still present on the root before the tooth extraction, for the increase of hard and soft tissues. In the literature, there is no evidence of common guidelines for this technique but only tips based on personal experience and/or previous studies. The aim of this study was to investigate and to validate the reliability of a new orthodontic extrusion technique (MF Extrusion Technique, by Dr. Mauro Fadda) by means of a retrospective consecutive case-series study. After we have done a review of the literature, we evaluated the X-rays of twelve consecutively treated patients before the orthodontic extrusion (T0) and after the stabilization period (T1), in order to quantify, by two different measurements, area and linear, the bone gain obtained by the application of the new technique. All the patients examined showed a significant increase in bone areas with an average value of 31.575 mm2. The linear bone gain had an average value of 4.63 mm. Data collected were statistically analysed by the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The results obtained both from area and linear measurements at T0 and at T1 times showed that there was a statistically significant bone gain with p<0.01.
Inhibitory Activity of Illicium verum Extracts against Avian Viruses
Authors: Alhajj Mohammed S. , Qasem Mahmood A. , Al-Mufarrej Saud I.
Published: January 2020

This study aimed at screening the inhibitory activity of Illicium verum extracts against avian reovirus, infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV), Newcastle disease virus (NDV), and infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV). The cytotoxic and antiviral actions of 3 extracts, absolute methanol (100MOH), 50% methanol (50MOH), and aqueous extracts (WA.), were evaluated by MTT assay. The Illicium verum extracts were added to the cultured chick embryo fibroblast (CEF) with tested viruses in three attacks, preinoculation, postinoculation, and simultaneous inoculation. The three extracts showed antiviral inhibitory activity against all tested viruses during simultaneous inoculation and preinoculation except 100MOH and 50MOH that showed no effect against IBDV, thereby suggesting that the extracts have a preventive effect on CEF against viruses. During postinoculation, the extracts exhibited inhibitory effects against NDV and avian reovirus, while no effect against IBDV recorded and only the 100MOH showed an inhibitory effect against ILTV. The initial results of this study suggest that Illicium verum may be a candidate for a natural alternative source for antiviral agents.
Systemic Administration of Calea pinnatifida Inhibits Inflammation Induced by Carrageenan in a Murine Model of Pulmonary Neutrophilia
Authors: de Campos Facchin Bruno Matheus , da Rosa Julia Salvan , Luz Ana Beatriz Gobbo , Moon Yeo Jim Kinoshita , de Lima Tamires Cardoso , Casoti Rosana , Biavatti Maique Weber , Dalmarco Eduardo Monguilhott , Fröde Tânia Silvia
Published: January 2020

Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of the crude extract (CE), derived fraction, and isolated compounds from Calea pinnatifida leaves in a mouse model of pulmonary neutrophilia. Methods. The CE and derived fractions, hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol, were obtained from C. pinnatifida leaves. The compounds 3,5- and 4,5-di-O-E-caffeoylquinic acids were isolated from the EtOAc fraction using chromatography and were identified using infrared spectroscopic data and nuclear magnetic resonance (1H and 13C NMR). Leukocytes count, protein concentration of the exudate, myeloperoxidase (MPO) and adenosine deaminase (ADA), and nitrate/nitrite (NOx), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-17A (IL-17A) levels were determined in the pleural fluid leakage after 4 h of pleurisy induction. We also analyzed the effects of isolated compounds on the phosphorylation of both p65 and p38 in the lung tissue. Results. The CE, its fractions, and isolated compounds inhibited leukocyte activation, protein concentration of the exudate, and MPO, ADA, NOx, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-17A levels. 3,5- and 4,5-di-O-E-caffeoylquinic acids also inhibited phosphorylation of both p65 and p38 (P<0.05). Conclusion. This study demonstrated that C. pinnatifida presents important anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting activated leukocytes and protein concentration of the exudate. These effects were related to the inhibition of proinflammatory mediators. The dicaffeoylquinic acids may be partially responsible for these anti-inflammatory properties through the inhibition of nuclear transcription factor kappa B and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways.
The Citrus Flavonoid Naringenin Protects the Myocardium from Ageing-Dependent Dysfunction: Potential Role of SIRT1
Authors: Testai Lara , Piragine Eugenia , Piano Ilaria , Flori Lorenzo , Da Pozzo Eleonora , Miragliotta Vincenzo , Pirone Andrea , Citi Valentina , Di Cesare Mannelli Lorenzo , Brogi Simone , Carpi Sara , Martelli Alma , Nieri Paola , Martini Claudia , Ghelardini Carla , Gargini Claudia , Calderone Vincenzo
Published: January 2020

Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) enzyme plays a pivotal role in the regulation of many physiological functions. In particular, it is implicated in ageing-related diseases, such as cardiac hypertrophy, myocardial infarct, and endothelial dysfunction; moreover, its expression decreases with age. Therefore, an effective strategy to extend the lifespan and improve cardiovascular function is the enhancement of the expression/activity of SIRT1 with exogenous agents. The Citrus flavonoid naringenin (NAR) presents structural similarity with the natural SIRT1 activator resveratrol. In this study, we demonstrate through in vitro assays that NAR significantly activates SIRT1 enzyme and shows antisenescence effects. The binding mode of NAR into SIRT1 was detailed investigated through in silico studies. Moreover, chronic administration (for six months) of NAR (100 mg/kg/day) to 6-month-old mice leads to an enhancement of SIRT1 expression and a marked reduction of reactive oxygen species production in myocardial tissue. Furthermore, at the end of the treatment, the plasma levels of two well-known markers of cardiovascular inflammation, TNF-α and IL6, are significantly reduced in 12-month-old mice treated with NAR, as well as the cardiovascular risk (total cholesterol/HDL ratio) compared to control mice. Finally, the age-associated fibrotic remodeling, which is well detected through a Mallory trichrome staining in the vehicle-treated 12-month-old mice, is significantly reduced by the chronic treatment with NAR. Moreover, an improvement of myocardium functionality is highlighted by the enhancement of citrate synthase activity and stabilization of the mitochondrial membrane potential after NAR treatment. Taken together, these results suggest that a nutraceutical approach with NAR may have positive impacts on many critical hallmarks of myocardial senescence, contributing to improve the cardiac performance in aged subjects.
Comparison of Serum Inhibin B and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Level between Normal and Infertile Men in Yaoundé
Authors: Corinne Tchoula Mamiafo , Anatole Pieme Constant , Jeanne Ngogang Yonkeu
Published: January 2020

Objective. Hormones play a vital role in initiating and maintaining male reproductive function. The present study explores the influence and predictive ability of two reproductive hormones on semen quality among men who were partners in an infertile couple.Design. During our cross sectional study, men were recruited from private and public hospital and laboratories for clinical evaluation of fertility status.Methods. Fresh semen samples were assessed for quality (concentration, motility and morphology) according to the 2010 World Health Organization manual and the serum levels of hormones, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), Inhibin B was measured (ELISA).Results. We found a significant difference in the two groups regarding sperm concentration (p<0.0001), total sperm count (p<0.0001), progressive motility (p<0.0001), vitality (p<0.0001) and the percentage of normal forms (p=0.043). We found a strong and negative correlation between FSH and Inhibin B in the overall population, the normozoospermic reference group and the case group. Our study confirmed that Inhibin B was significantly and positively correlated with sperm concentration and leucocytes, and that FSH was negatively correlated to sperm concentration and vitality.Conclusion. Consistent with other studies, our results show strong association between semen quality and FSH and Inhibin B.
Analysis of Myocardial Ischemia Parameters after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting with Minimal Extracorporeal Circulation and a Novel Microplegia versus Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Koechlin Luca , Zenklusen Urs , Doebele Thomas , Rrahmani Bejtush , Gahl Brigitta , Schaeffer Thibault , Berdajs Denis , Eckstein Friedrich S. , Reuthebuch Oliver
Published: January 2020

Background. To compare the performance of our institutionally refined microplegia protocol in conjunction with minimal extracorporeal circulation system (MiECC) with off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB). Methods. We conducted a single center study including patients undergoing isolated CABG surgery performed either off-pump or on-pump using our refined microplegia protocol in conjunction with MiECC. We used propensity modelling to calculate the inverse probability of treatment weights (IPTW). Primary endpoints were peak values of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) during hospitalization, and respective first values on the first postoperative day. Endpoint analysis was adjusted for intraoperative variables. Results. After IPTW, we could include 278 patients into our analyses, 153 of which had received OPCAB and 125 of which had received microplegia. Standardized differences indicated that treatment groups were comparable after IPTW. The multivariable quantile regression yielded a nonsignificant median increase of first hs-cTnT by 39 ng/L (95% CI -8 to 87 ng/L, p=0.11), and of peak hs-cTnT by 35 ng/L (CI -13 to 84, p=0.16), when microplegia was used, as compared to OPCAB. Major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) occurred with equal frequency in both groups (7.8% vs. 5.0%; p=0.51), and length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) was significantly shorter after the use of microplegia (geometric mean 1.6 days versus 1.3 days; p=0.01). Conclusion. The use of our institutionally refined microplegia in conjunction with MiECC was associated with similar results with regard to ischemic injury, expressed in hs-cTnT compared to OPCAB. MACCE was seen equally frequent. ICU discharge was earlier if microplegia was used.
Deep Forest-Based Fault Diagnosis Method for Chemical Process
Authors: Ding Jiaman , Luo Qingbo , Jia Lianyin , You Jinguo
Published: January 2020

With the rapid expanding of big data in all domains, data-driven and deep learning-based fault diagnosis methods in chemical industry have become a major research topic in recent years. In addition to a deep neural network, deep forest also provides a new idea for deep representation learning and overcomes the shortcomings of a deep neural network such as strong parameter dependence and large training cost. However, the ability of each base classifier is not taken into account in the standard cascade forest, which may lead to its indistinct discrimination. In this paper, a multigrained scanning-based weighted cascade forest (WCForest) is proposed and has been applied to fault diagnosis in chemical processes. In view of the high-dimensional nonlinear data in the process of chemical industry, WCForest first designs a set of relatively suitable windows for the multigrained scan strategy to learn its data representation. Next, considering the fitting quality of each forest classifier, a weighting strategy is proposed to calculate the weight of each forest in the cascade structure without additional calculation cost, so as to improve the overall performance of the model. In order to prove the effectiveness of WCForest, its application has been carried out in the benchmark Tennessee Eastman (TE) process. Experiments demonstrate that WCForest achieves better results than other related approaches across various evaluation metrics.
PSS Parameter Optimization Based on Comprehensive Damping Effect Method Aiming at Actual Grid Characteristics in Northern China
Authors: Liu Xiang-Yu , He Yu-Ling , Li Xiao-Ming , Lu Peng , Cheng Lun , Li An-Chang
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we proposed the comprehensive damping effect method to optimize the PSS parameters. Different from other studies, the optimization in this paper is based on both the amplitude-frequency and the phase-frequency properties, while other studies mainly focus on the phase-frequency characteristics. The actual grid data in Northern China are employed to verify the optimization effect in the multimachine system. The proposed method is compared with the engineering method, the existing optimization method, and the commercial software. The comparison shows that the PSS parameters obtained by the proposed method in this paper are superior to those obtained by the engineering experience, the phase-frequency optimization method, and the commercial software. In the cases of different phase-frequency range requirements, the wider the phase-frequency range is, the better the damping effect of the obtained parameters will be.
Frequent Recurrences of Genital Herpes Are Associated with Enhanced Systemic HSV-Specific T Cell Response
Authors: Holub Michal , Stráníková Alžběta , Chalupa Pavel , Arientová Simona , Roubalová Kateřina , Beran Ondřej
Published: January 2020

Objectives. Genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is controlled by HSV-specific T cells in the genital tract, and the role of systemic T cell responses is not fully understood. Thus, we analysed T cell responses in patients with recurrent genital herpes (GH). Methods. T cell responses to HSV-1 and HSV-2 native antigens and the expression of HLA-DR and CD38 molecules on circulating CD8+ T cells were analysed in adults with high frequency of GH recurrences (19 patients) and low frequency of GH recurrences (7 patients) and 12 HSV-2 seronegative healthy controls. The study utilized the interferon-γ Elispot assay for measurement of spot-forming cells (SFC) after ex vivo stimulation with HSV antigens and flow cytometry for analysis of the expression of activation markers in unstimulated T cells. Results. The patients with high frequency of GH recurrences (mean number of recurrences of 13.3 per year) had significantly enhanced HSV-specific T cell responses than the HSV-2 seronegative healthy controls. Moreover, a trend of higher numbers of SFC was observed in these patients when compared with those with low frequency of GH recurrences (mean number of recurrences of 3.3 per year). Additionally, no differences in CD38 and HLA-DR expression on circulating CD8+ T cells were found among the study groups. Conclusions. Frequency of GH recurrences positively correlates with high numbers of systemic HSV-specific T cells.
A Theoretical Calculation Method of Influence Radius of Settlement Based on the Slices Method in Tunnel Construction
Authors: Tian Xiaoxu , Song Zhanping , Wang Bing , Zhou Guannan
Published: January 2020

At present, the empirical formula is used to calculate the influence radius of surface settlement and the width of settlement trough, which lacks theoretical support. Aiming at this problem, this paper derived the theoretical calculation formula for predicting the influence radius of formation settlement based on the slices method. Then, the expression of the width of settlement trough was obtained according to the relationship between the settlement influence radius and the settlement trough width. The rationality of the formula was verified by the Heathrow Express tunnel and the Green Park tunnel. Through analysis and discussion, it was found that in the clay stratum, the settlement calculation formula can more accurately predict the surface settlement, while there is a big error in predicting the stratum settlement within 4dnear the tunnel vault. In the sand layer, the internal friction angle is less than 40°, and the reinforcement surface is applied to the unsupported face to reduce the radius of influence; in the clay formation, when the cohesion is less than 50 kPa, the influence radius can be reduced by applying reinforcement measure to the unsupported face.
Exosomes Derived from Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Alleviate Mifepristone-Induced Human Endometrial Stromal Cell Injury
Authors: Wang Jianye , Hu Ruomeng , Xing Qiong , Feng Xinghao , Jiang Xiaohua , Xu Yuping , Wei Zhaolian
Published: January 2020

The human endometrial stromal cells (hEndoSCs) could maintain endometrial homeostasis and play a critical role in repairing endometrial injury. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) significantly increase the proliferation of damaged hEndoSCs and protect them from apoptosis. Recent studies indicated that exosomes derived from stem cells could be recruited to damaged tissues for regeneration, which exhibit the potential for stem cell therapy as therapeutic vectors. In this study, we isolated human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (hUCMSC-Exos) and investigated the effects of hUCMSC-Exos on mifepristone-induced hEndoSC injury. Exosome uptake and cell proliferation as well as cell apoptosis of damaged hEndoSCs treated with hUCMSC-Exos were detected. We also assessed the expression of apoptosis-related proteins and the PTEN/AKT signaling pathway. We found hUCMSC-Exos improved the proliferation of damaged hEndoSCs and protected hEndoSCs from the mifepristone-induced apoptosis. hUCMSC-Exos upregulated Bcl-2 level as well as downregulated Cleaved Caspase-3 level and activated the PTEN/AKT signaling pathway to regulate the proliferation and antiapoptosis. These results indicated hUCMSC-Exos protected hEndoSCs from mifepristone-induced apoptosis and played an active role in repairing the damaged hEndoSCs through the PTEN/AKT signaling pathway in vitro. hUCMSC-Exos may hold great promise in the cell-free therapy of endometrial injury.
Identification of Key Modules, Hub Genes, and Noncoding RNAs in Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps by Weighted Gene Coexpression Network Analysis
Authors: Zhou Xuanchen , Zhen Xiaoyue , Liu Yiqing , Cui Zhaoyang , Yue Zhiyong , Xu Anting , Han Jie
Published: January 2020

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a chronic inflammatory disease with relatively easy recurrence. However, the precise molecular mechanisms of this disease are poorly known. Based on gene sequencing data obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, we constructed coexpression networks by weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed by the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID). The core gene of pathogenesis, CRSwNP, was screened by protein‐protein interaction data (PPI) from the HPRD database. Unsupervised clustering was applied to screen hub genes related to the phenotype of CRSwNP. Blue and turquoise modules were found to be most significantly related to the pathogenicity of CRSwNP. Functional enrichment analysis showed that cell proliferation in the blue modules, the apoptotic process in the turquoise module, and the cancer pathway in both modules were mostly significantly correlated with the development of CRSwNP. The noncoding RNAs (long noncoding RNA and microRNA) and the top 10 core genes in each module were found to be associated with the pathogenesis of CRSwNP. A total of nine hub genes were identified to be related to the CRSwNP phenotype. By qRT‐PCR analysis, AKT1, CDH1, PIK3R1, CBL, LRP1, MALAT1, and XIST were proven to be associated with the pathogenesis of CRSwNP. AGR2, FAM3D, PIP, DSE, and TMC were identified to be related to the CRSwNP phenotype. Further exploration of these genes will reveal more important information about the mechanisms of CRSwNP.
Assessment of the Dynamic Alteration of Choriocapillaris Vessel Density after Focal Laser Photocoagulation with OCT Angiography
Authors: Yi Zuohuizi , Xing Yiqiao , Chen Changzheng , Wang Xiaoling , Liu Juejun , He Lu , Zheng Hongmei
Published: January 2020

Purpose. To evaluate the changes of choriocapillaris blood flow beneath laser lesions in noncenter-involved diabetic macular edema patients using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Methods. This was a retrospective case-series study. We used OCTA to analyze the characteristics of the choriocapillaris blood flow beneath laser lesions before laser treatment and at several intervals after treatment. The choriocapillaris vessel density (CCVD) beneath the laser lesions was based on the OCTA images and was defined as the proportion of flow pixels in the selected area calculated using FIJI software through automatic binarization processing based on threshold methods. Results. A total of 63 laser lesions in 8 eyes of 5 patients were included in this study. There was a significant decrease in the CCVD at 1 hour and 1 day following laser treatment (24.25% ± 5.04% and 22.00% ± 4.71%, respectively) when compared with the baseline value (39.09% ± 3.71%, all p<0.001). The CCVD was 31.82% ± 4.53% in 1 week after laser treatment, which was significantly higher than that in 1 day after treatment (p<0.001), and then continued to improve at 1 month after treatment (34.44% ± 4.16%). Additionally, in the group with smaller spot size and lower energy, the CCVD recovery at 1 month after laser was significantly better than that in the group with larger spot size and higher energy (p=0.006). Conclusions. OCTA image analysis can reflect changes in the choriocapillaris blood flow beneath laser lesions at different times following laser treatment in vivo. Spot size and laser energy may affect blood flow recovery.
Oral Infection Caused byStenotrophomonas maltophilia: A Rare Presentation of an Emerging Opportunistic Pathogen
Authors: Prates Marcelo , Fernandes Fernando , Proença Francisco , Mussá Yashad , Tavares Ana , Pereira André
Published: January 2020

Stenotrophomonas maltophiliais an emerging multidrug-resistant opportunistic pathogen with an increasing incidence of nosocomial and community-acquired infection cases, mainly in immunocompromised individuals. Oral cavity infections are rare. To learn more about this infection, a case of oral cavity infection caused byS. maltophiliain an immunosuppressed patient under ventilatory therapy has been presented. The patient presented with multiple nonpainful erosive lesions of the tongue, palate, and oral mucosa. A smear of the oral lesions was performed that revealed the presence ofS. maltophiliaandCandida albicans, and the patient was treated with fluconazole and sulfamethoxazole associated with trimethoprim in accordance with the antimicrobial susceptibility testing. After 14 days of antibiotic therapy, there were almost no signs of the previous lesions.