bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Emotional Music on Active ROI in Patients with Depression Based on Deep Learning: A Task-State fMRI Study
Authors: Gui Renzhou , Chen Tongjie , Nie Han
Published: October 2019

With the continuous development of science, more and more research results have proved that machine learning is capable of diagnosing and studying the major depressive disorder (MDD) in the brain. We propose a deep learning network with multibranch and local residual feedback, for four different types of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data produced by depressed patients and control people under the condition of listening to positive- and negative-emotions music. We use the large convolution kernel of the same size as the correlation matrix to match the features and obtain the results of feature matching of 264 regions of interest (ROIs). Firstly, four-dimensional fMRI data are used to generate the two-dimensional correlation matrix of one person’s brain based on ROIs and then processed by the threshold value which is selected according to the characteristics of complex network and small-world network. After that, the deep learning model in this paper is compared with support vector machine (SVM), logistic regression (LR), k-nearest neighbor (kNN), a common deep neural network (DNN), and a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) for classification. Finally, we further calculate the matched ROIs from the intermediate results of our deep learning model which can help related fields further explore the pathogeny of depression patients.
Performance Prediction of the Centrifugal Compressor Based on a Limited Number of Sample Data
Authors: Jiang Hongsheng , Dong Sujun , Liu Zheng , He Yue , Ai Fengming
Published: October 2019

Centrifugal compressor is widely used in various engineering domains, and predicting the performance of a centrifugal compressor is an essential task for its conceptual design, optimization, and system simulation. For years, researchers seek to implement this mission through various kinds of methods, including interpolation, curve fitting, neural network, and other statistics‐based algorithms. However, these methods usually need a large amount of data, and obtaining data may cost considerable computing or experimental resources. This paper focuses on constructing the performance maps of pressure ratio and isentropic efficiency using a limited number of sample data while maintaining accuracy. Firstly, sample data are generated from simulation using Vista CCD. Then, corrected flow rate and corrected rotational speed are used as independent variables, and the regression expressions with physical meaning of pressure ratio and isentropic efficiency are derived and simplified through thermodynamic analysis and loss analysis of centrifugal compressor, resulting in two loss‐analysis‐based models. Meanwhile, kriging models based on a second‐order polynomial and neural network models are built. Results show that, when predicting inside data boundary, the loss‐analysis‐based model and the kriging model produce higher accuracy prediction even in a small data set, and the predicting result is stable, while the neural network model provides better results only in a more extensive data set with more speed lines. For the prediction outside the data boundary, the loss‐analysis‐based model can provide relatively accurate results. Besides, it takes less time to train and utilize a loss‐analysis‐based model than other models.
A Rare Case of Ixazomib-Induced Cutaneous Necrotizing Vasculitis in a Patient with Relapsed Myeloma
Authors: Katz Heather , Shenouda Mina , Dahshan Deena , Sonnier George , Lebowicz Yehuda
Published: October 2019

Ixazomib is the only oral proteasome inhibitor used in relapsed/refractory myeloma. Cutaneous side effects due to ixazomib have been documented in the literature; however, cutaneous necrotizing vasculitis is extremely rare. We describe a case of a 74-year-old man with relapsed multiple myeloma who was started on ixazomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone. He developed several skin lesions that were biopsied and revealed cutaneous necrotizing vasculitis. Ixazomib was held with resolution of the vasculitic lesions and restarted with dexamethasone to 20 mg on the day of treatment and 20 mg dose the day after treatment.
The Effect of Acupuncture and Moxibustion on Heart Function in Heart Failure Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liang Bingxue , Yan Cui , Zhang Lu , Yang Zhonqi , Wang Lingjun , Xian Shaoxiang , Lu Lu
Published: October 2019

Background. Acupuncture and moxibustion (A&M) has been used for treating heart failure in China since the Han Dynasty. This ancient therapy can be applied to many diseases according to the WHO recommendations. Although there are many clinical reports on the treatment of heart failure by A&M, its effectiveness is still not fully demonstrated. We aimed to systematically review the related randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies and conduct a meta-analysis. Methods. The PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, CENTRAL, CNKI, Wanfang, and Weipu databases were searched electronically until December 2018. The data were extracted, and the risk of bias was evaluated. Meta-analysis, subgroup analysis, and metaregression were performed. Heart function was the main outcome assessed. The details of the intervention were also investigated. Results. Thirty-two RCTs involving 2499 patients were included. Most studies had an unclear risk regarding blinding and allocation concealment. Compared with the traditional treatment group, the experimental group had a higher efficacy rate (odds ratio (OR) = 2.61, 95% confidence interval (95%CI): = [1.84; 3.72], I2 = 0%, p<0.0001) and a significantly improved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (mean difference (MD) = 6.34, 95%CI = [4.11, 8.57], I2 = 93%, p<0.0001), cardiac output (CO) (MD = 1.02, 95%CI = [0.65, 1.39], I2 = 94%, p<0.0001), 6-minute walk test (6MWT) (MD = 43.6, 95%CI = [37.43, 49.77], I2 = 0%, p<0.0001), and reduced brain-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) (MD = −227.99, 95%CI = [−337.30, −118.68], I2 = 96%, p<0.0001). Adverse events were inadequately reported in most studies. Conclusions. A&M may be a promising intervention as an adjunctive therapy to medication for treating heart failure. However, the evidence was inconclusive. Further large and rigorously designed RCTs are needed for verification.
Preoperative Serum IL6, IL8, and TNF-α May Predict the Recurrence of Hepatocellular Cancer
Authors: Cai Huayong , Zhang Yu , Meng Fanyu , Cui Chao , Li Hao , Sui Minghao , Zhang Haoyun , Lu Shichun
Published: October 2019

Purpose. As we all know, curative resection remains the only effective treatment for hepatocellular cancer (HCC). However, systemic inflammatory response syndrome always correlates with surgery, which may impose an impact on the clinical outcome of HCC patients who had undergone curative treatment. The present study is aimed at exploring the correlation between perioperative inflammatory mediators and recurrence risk of HCC. Methods. This study retrospectively included 157 histologically confirmed single HCC patients (88 patients developed HCC again) who had received radical hepatectomy between January 2016 and May 2018 at the Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the People’s Liberation Army General Hospital (PLAGH), China. The cut-off values for predicting recurrence were determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis with estimation of the Youden index. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method, and the difference was compared between groups by the log-rank test. Univariate/multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors of postoperative tumor recurrence. Results. The perioperative serum IL1, IL2, and IL10 levels showed no difference between groups, whereas the serum IL6, IL8, and TNF-α levels showed significant differences between groups. High preoperative serum IL6, IL8, and TNF-α levels were significantly associated with shorter RFS. Multivariate analysis revealed that preoperative serum IL6>8.45 pg/ml, preoperative serum IL8>68 pg/ml, preoperative serum TNF−α>14.9 pg/ml, microvascular invasion (MVI), and maximum tumor size>6 cm were independent predictors of RFS. Conclusions. The present study confirmed that high preoperative serum IL6, IL8, and TNF-α levels were distinctly correlated with the postoperative tumor recurrence risk of HCC patients.
Study on the Vibroimpact Response of the Particle Elastic Impact on the Metal Plate
Authors: Yang Yang , Wan Lirong
Published: October 2019

In order to study the contact and vibration response in the reciprocating impact between coal gangue particles and metal plate, on the basis of the Hertz contact theory, L‐N contact model, and the Lagrange equation, this paper established an impact‐contact model when the particles free falling to vertically impacts on the metal plate. The variable damping simulation method is proposed, and the accuracy of the variable damping simulation in the medium reciprocating collision is verified by combining the constant damping simulation, the variable damping simulation, and the falling body impact‐contact model. The functional relationship between the damping term and the initial impact velocity in Adams simulation is also obtained. Then, through the rigid‐flexible coupling method which is combined by Adams and Hypermesh, the three types of variable damping simulations are conducted: the simulation that the free‐falling rigid rock sphere impact on the rigid metal plate, the simulation that the elastic rock sphere impact on the rigid metal plate, and the simulation that the elastic rock sphere impact on the elastic metal plate, respectively. Furthermore, contact and vibrate responses of the rock sphere and the metal plate in the three types of the simulation are studied. The results show that the impact‐contact response of the rock sphere obtained from the simulation that the elastic rock sphere impact on the elastic metal plate is more accurate. After the flexible treatment of the rock sphere and the metal plate, most of the system energy is consumed during the impact. The conclusions will provide a theoretical calculation method for the medium vertical reciprocating impact and a theoretical basis for the setting of the damping term in Adams simulation and support the research basis for the study of the impact behavior between coal gangue particles and the metal plate.
Electroacupuncture Relieves CCI-Induced Neuropathic Pain Involving Excitatory and Inhibitory Neurotransmitters
Authors: Huang Chun-Ping , Lin Yi-Wen , Lee Der-Yen , Hsieh Ching-Liang
Published: October 2019

Neuropathic pain caused by peripheral tissue injuries to the higher brain regions still has no satisfactory therapy. Disruption of the balance of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters is one of the underlying mechanisms that results in chronic neuropathic pain. Targeting neurotransmitters and related receptors may constitute a novel approach for treating neuropathic pain. We investigated the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on chronic constriction injury- (CCI-) induced neuropathic pain. The mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia pain behaviors were relieved by 15 Hz EA but not by 2 and 50 Hz. These phenomena were associated with increasing γ-amino-butyric acid (GABA) receptors in the hippocampus and periaqueductal gray (PAG) but not N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors. Furthermore, excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate was decreased in the hippocampus and inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA was increased in the PAG under treatment with EA. These data provide novel evidence that EA modulates neurotransmitters and related receptors to reduce neuropathic pain in the higher brain regions. This suggests that EA may be a useful therapy option for treating neuropathic pain.
Neuronal Pentraxin 2 Binds PNNs and Enhances PNN Formation
Authors: Van’t Spijker Heleen M. , Rowlands Dáire , Rossier Jean , Haenzi Barbara , Fawcett James W. , Kwok Jessica C. F.
Published: October 2019

The perineuronal net (PNN) is a mesh-like proteoglycan structure on the neuronal surface which is involved in regulating plasticity. The PNN regulates plasticity via multiple pathways, one of which is direct regulation of synapses through the control of AMPA receptor mobility. Since neuronal pentraxin 2 (Nptx2) is a known regulator of AMPA receptor mobility and Nptx2 can be removed from the neuronal surface by PNN removal, we investigated whether Nptx2 has a function in the PNN. We found that Nptx2 binds to the glycosaminoglycans hyaluronan and chondroitin sulphate E in the PNN. Furthermore, in primary cortical neuron cultures, the addition of NPTX2 to the culture medium enhances PNN formation during PNN development. These findings suggest Nptx2 as a novel PNN binding protein with a role in the mechanism of PNN formation.
The Influence of Nano‐SiO2 and Recycled Polypropylene Plastic Content on Physical, Mechanical, and Shrinkage Properties of Mortar
Authors: Chen Haiming , Xu Yangchen , Zhang Donglei , Huang Lingxia , Zhu Yuntao , Huang Le
Published: October 2019

This work is aimed to study the possibility of recycling plastic waste (polypropylene (PP)) as aggregate instead of sand in the manufacturing of mortar or concrete. For this, an experimental study was carried out to evaluate the influence of nano‐SiO2 and recycled PP plastic particles′ content on physical, mechanical, and shrinkage properties and microstructure of the mortars with recycled PP plastic particles. The sand is substituted with the recycled PP plastic particles at dosages (0%, 20%, 40%, and 60% by volume of the sand). The nano‐SiO2 content is 5% by weight of cement. The physical (porosity, water absorption, and density), mechanical (compressive and flexural strength) and shrinkage properties of the mortars were evaluated, and a complementary study on microstructure of the interface between cementitious matrix and PP plastic particles was made. The measurements of physical and mechanical properties showed that PP‐filled mortar had lower density and better toughness (higher ratio of flexural strength to compressive strength). However, the compressive strength and flexural strength of PP‐filled mortar is reduced, and the porosity, water absorption, autogenous shrinkage, and dry shrinkage increased as compared to normal cement mortar. The addition of nano‐SiO2 reduced the porosity, water absorption, and drying shrinkage of PP‐filled mortar and effectively improved the mechanical properties, but increased its autogenous shrinkage. A microscopic study of the interfacial zone (plastic‐binder) has shown that there is poor adhesion between PP plastic particles and cement paste. From this work, it is found that recycled PP plastic waste has a great potential to be a construction material. It can be used as partial replacement of natural aggregates instead.
Identification of Key Pathways and Genes in the Orai2 Mediated Classical and Mesenchymal Subtype of Glioblastoma by Bioinformatic Analyses
Authors: Yuan Feng , Yi Li , Hai Long , Wang Yingshuai , Yang Yihan , Li Tao , Tong Luqing , Ma Haiwen , Liu Peidong , Ming Haolang , Ren Bingcheng , Yu Shengping , Lin Yu , Yang Xuejun
Published: October 2019

Background. Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ channels (CRAC) are the main Ca2+ entry pathway regulating intracellular Ca2+ concentration in a variety of cancer types. Orai2 is the main pore-forming subunit of CRAC channels in central neurons. To explore the role of Orai2 in glioblastoma (GBM), we investigated the key pathways and genes in Orai2-mediated GBM by bioinformatic analyses. Methods. Via The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), French, Sun, and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) (GDS3885) datasets, we collected 1231 cases with RNA-seq data and analyzed the functional annotation of Orai2 by gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. Univariate and multivariate survival analyses were applied to 823 patients with survival data. Results. We discovered that Orai2 was markedly upregulated in GBM compared to normal brain samples and lower-grade gliomas (LGG). Survival analysis found that higher expression of Orai2 was independently associated with a worse prognosis of patients with the classical and mesenchymal subtypes of GBM. Simultaneously, Orai2 expression was higher in tumors of the classical and mesenchymal subtypes than other subtypes and was significantly correlated with classical- and mesenchymal-related genes. GO and KEGG pathway analysis revealed that genes significantly correlated with Orai2 were involved in the JNK pathway. Through screening transcriptomic data, we found a strong association between Orai2 and apoptosis, stemness, and an epithelial-mesenchymal transition- (EMT-) like phenotype. Conclusion. As a prognostic factor, Orai2 is obviously activated in the classical and mesenchymal subtypes of GBM and promotes glioma cell self-renewal, apoptosis, and EMT-like by the JNK pathway. These findings indicate that Orai2 could be a candidate prognostic and therapeutic target, especially for the classical and mesenchymal subtypes of GBM.
A Cascaded Convolutional Neural Network for Assessing Signal Quality of Dynamic ECG
Authors: Zhang Qifei , Fu Lingjian , Gu Linyue
Published: October 2019

Motion artifacts and myoelectrical noise are common issues complicating the collection and processing of dynamic electrocardiogram (ECG) signals. Recent signal quality studies have utilized a binary classification metric in which ECG samples are determined to either be clean or noisy. However, the clinical use of dynamic ECGs requires specific noise level classification for varying applications. Conventional signal processing methods, including waveform discrimination, are limited in their ability to remove motion artifacts and myoelectrical noise from dynamic ECGs. As such, a novel cascaded convolutional neural network (CNN) is proposed and demonstrated for application to the five-classification problem (low interference, mild motion artifacts, mild myoelectrical noise, severe motion artifacts, and severe myoelectrical noise). Specifically, this study finally categorizes dynamic ECG signals into three levels (low, mild, and severe) using the proposed CNN to meet clinical requirements. The network includes two components, the first of which was used to distinguish signal interference types, while the second was used to distinguish signal interference levels. This model does not require feature engineering, includes powerful nonlinear mapping capabilities, and is robust to varying noise types. Experimental data are composed of private dataset and public dataset, which were acquired from 90,000 four-second dynamic ECG signals and MIT-BIH Arrhythmia database, respectively. Experimental results produced an overall recognition rate of 92.7% on private dataset and 91.8% on public dataset. These results suggest the proposed technique to be a valuable new tool for dynamic ECG auxiliary diagnosis.
Identified the Synergistic Mechanism of Drynariae Rhizoma for Treating Fracture Based on Network Pharmacology
Authors: Lin Haixiong , Wang Xiaotong , Wang Ligang , Dong Hang , Huang Peizhen , Cai Qunbin , Mo Yingjie , Huang Feng , Jiang Ziwei
Published: October 2019

Background. Drynariae Rhizoma (DR) has been widely used in the prevention and treatment of various fractures. However, the specific mechanisms of DR’s active ingredients have not been elucidated. The purpose of this study was to explore the synergistic mechanisms of DR for treating fracture. Methods. A network pharmacology approach integrating ingredient screening, target exploration, active ingredients-gene target network construction, protein-protein interaction network construction, molecular docking, gene-protein classification, gene ontology (GO) functional analysis, KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, and signaling pathway integration was used. Results. This approach identified 17 active ingredients of DR, interacting with 144 common gene targets and 143 protein targets of DR and fracture. NCOA1, GSK3B, TTPA, and MAPK1 were identified as important gene targets. Five most important protein targets were also identified, including MAPK1, SRC, HRAS, RXRA, and NCOA1. Molecular docking found that DR has a good binding potential with common protein targets. GO functional analysis indicated that common genes involve multiple processes, parts and functions in biological process, cellular component, and molecular function, including positive regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter, signal transduction, cytosol, extracellular exosome, cytoplasm, and protein binding. The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis indicated that common gene targets play a role in repairing fractures in multiple signaling pathways, including MAPK, PI3K/AKT, Ras, and VEGF signaling pathways. MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways were involved in osteoblast formation, Ras signaling pathway was involved in enhancing mesenchymal stromal cell migration, and VEGF signaling pathway was involved in angiogenesis. Conclusion. The study revealed the correlation between DR and fracture and the potential synergistic mechanism of different targets of DR in the treatment of fractures, which provides a reference for the development of new drugs.
Global Comparison of Stability Testing Parameters and Testing Methods for Finished Herbal Products
Authors: Kim Jung-Hoon , Lee Kyungjin , Jerng Ui Min , Choi Goya
Published: October 2019

Quality consistencies of drug products are essential to guarantee expected therapeutic activities, and achieving consistent qualities for herbal products is challenging because of their physicochemical complexities and inherent variabilities. Regulatory authorities worldwide have issued regulations or guidelines for stability testing parameters and testing procedures for herbal products stored in proposed conditions. These testing parameters and methods for finished herbal products are detailed in the guidelines and regulations issued by 5 global authorities and 15 countries, that is, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH), the World Health Organization (WHO), Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Kenya, Republic of Korea, the Philippines, Qatar, Switzerland, USA, and Zambia. Physical, chemical, and biological stability tests were compared between different dosage forms, and the testing conditions (temperature and relative humidity) used for long-term, accelerated, or intermediate testing were included in the guidelines and regulations. Comparisons of global regulations and guidelines addressing stability testing are fundamental for the international harmonization of herbal product quality assessments. This review aids understanding of the global situation regarding the testing of herbal product quality with respect to storages.
A Case of Kawasaki Disease Accompanied by Encephalitis and Several Kinds of Arrhythmia during the Acute Phase
Authors: Nakagawa Naomi , Kamada Masahiro , Ishiguchi Yukiko , Moritoh Yuji , Okamoto Kengo , Itamura Shinji
Published: October 2019

Although central nervous system complications occasionally accompany during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease, clinically problematic arrhythmia is quite rare. We report a case accompanied by encephalitis and several kinds of problematic arrhythmia. Following the diagnosis of Taussig–Bing anomaly and coarctation of the aorta, the patient underwent aortic arch reconstruction, an arterial switch operation, and ventricular septal defect closure. No significant arrhythmias were observed. At the age of 5 years, the patient presented with a fever, rash, conjunctival hyperemia, and redness of the lips and fingertips. He was subsequently diagnosed with Kawasaki disease. The patient also presented with disorientation, and electroencephalography revealed overall slow-wave activity, indicating encephalitis. The patient received high-dose immunoglobulin and steroid pulse therapy. Sinus arrest was detected on day 10, and an atrial flutter with a 2 : 1 to 4 : 1 atrioventricular conduction block occurred on day 20. Although cardioversion succeeded in alleviating the atrial flatter, the patient experienced significant sinus arrest. The sinus arrest was alleviated 3 days later. Kawasaki disease-induced vasculitis and the arterial switch operation may both have influenced the sinus node dysfunction. Although sinus node function recovered, the possibility of progression into the sinus node dysfunction in the future should be considered.
The Periodontal Benefit of Orthodontic Tooth Movement in a Deep Facial Recession of a Mandibular Incisor
Authors: Taffarel Ivan Pedro , Miyoshi Caio Seiti , Maruo Ivan Toshio , Meira Thiago Martins , Tanaka Orlando Motohiro
Published: October 2019

Gingival recession refers to the exposure of the tooth’s surface by an apical shift of the gingiva. The aim of this paper is to present a clinical case of an adult patient with a skeletal Class I and clinically deep gingival recession in the mandibular left central incisor. A preadjusted appliance with 0.022 in×0.028 in slot was placed in both arches. Rectangular arches were used, with the addition of root lingual torque, specifically in the left lower central incisor. Class II and vertical intermaxillary elastics were used throughout the active treatment to obtain intercuspation of the posterior teeth. The orthodontic movement with the application of a localized biomechanics system of forces into the mandibular left central incisor delivered good dental and functional occlusion and, mainly, gingival and periodontal health. The follow-up showed stable results with the periodontium within normal limits and an improved occlusal interdigitation.
Using Network Pharmacology to Explore Potential Treatment Mechanism for Coronary Heart Disease Using Chuanxiong and Jiangxiang Essential Oils in Jingzhi Guanxin Prescriptions
Authors: Tai Jia , Zou Junbo , Zhang Xiaofei , Wang Yu , Liang Yulin , Guo Dongyan , Wang Mei , Cui Chunli , Wang Jing , Cheng Jiangxue , Shi Yajun
Published: October 2019

Background. To predict the active components and potential targets of traditional Chinese medicine and to determine the mechanism behind the curative effect of traditional Chinese medicine, a multitargeted method was used. Jingzhi Guanxin prescriptions expressed a high efficacy for coronary heart disease (CHD) patients of which essential oils from Chuanxiong and Jiangxiang were confirmed to be the most important effective substance. However, the interaction between the active components and the targets for the treatment of CHD has not been clearly explained in previous studies.Materials and Methods. Genes associated with the disease and the treatment strategy were searched from the electronic database and analyzed by Cytoscape (version 3.2.1). Protein-protein interaction network diagram of CHD with Jiangxiang and Chuanxiong essential oils was constructed by Cytoscape. Pathway functional enrichment analysis was executed by clusterProfiler package in R platform.Results. 121 ingredients of Chuanxiong and Jiangxiang essential oils were analyzed, and 393 target genes of the compositions and 912 CHD-related genes were retrieved. 15 coexpression genes were selected, includingUGT1A1,DPP4,RXRA,ADH1A,RXRG,UGT1A3,PPARA,TRPC3,CYP1A1,ABCC2,AHR, andADRA2A. The crucial pathways of occurrence and treatment molecular mechanism of CHD were analyzed, including retinoic acid metabolic process, flavonoid metabolic process, response to xenobiotic stimulus, cellular response to xenobiotic stimulus, cellular response to steroid hormone stimulus, retinoid binding, retinoic acid binding, and monocarboxylic acid binding. Finally, we elucidate the underlying role and mechanism behind these genes in the pathogenesis and treatment of CHD.Conclusions. Generally speaking, the nodes in subnetwork affect the pathological process of CHD, thus indicating the mechanism of Jingzhi Guanxin prescriptions containing Chuanxiong and Jiangxiang essential oils in the treatment of CHD.
A Systematic Review of Beta Cell Function in Adults of Black African Ethnicity
Authors: Ladwa M. , Hakim O. , Amiel S. A. , Goff L. M.
Published: October 2019

Background. Understanding ethnic differences in beta cell function has important implications for preventative and therapeutic strategies in populations at high risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). The existing literature, largely drawn from work in children and adolescents, suggests that beta cell function in black African (BA) populations is upregulated when compared to white Europeans (WE). Methods. A systematic literature search was undertaken in June 2018 to identify comparative studies of beta cell function between adults (>age 18 years) of indigenous/diasporic BA and WE ethnicity. All categories of glucose tolerance and all methodologies of assessing beta cell function in vivo were included. Results. 41 studies were identified for inclusion into a qualitative synthesis. The majority were studies in African American populations (n=30) with normal glucose tolerance (NGT)/nondiabetes (n=25), using intravenous glucose stimulation techniques (n=27). There were fewer studies in populations defined as only impaired fasting glucose/impaired glucose tolerance (IFG/IGT) (n=3) or only T2D (n=3). Although BA broadly exhibited greater peripheral insulin responses than WE, the relatively small number of studies which measured C-peptide to differentiate between beta cell insulin secretion and hepatic insulin extraction (n=14) had highly variable findings. In exclusively IGT or T2D cohorts, beta cell insulin secretion was found to be lower in BA compared to WE. Conclusions. There is inconsistent evidence for upregulated beta cell function in BA adults, and they may in fact exhibit greater deficits in insulin secretory function as glucose intolerance develops.
Bilateral Symmetric Fracture of the Iliac Wings: An Unusual Situation after a Car Accident
Authors: Lambrecht Delphine , Van Oost Jan
Published: October 2019

Introduction. Pediatric pelvic fractures are uncommon and are usually the result of a high-energy mechanism. Bilateral symmetric fracture of the iliac bone is an extremely uncommon clinical entity that is not yet classified in the current classification systems of pelvic fractures. It mostly occurs among young patients with a history of a seat-belt injury. Patients usually complain of severe hip pain after an accident. Case Report. A 5-year-old male was transported to our hospital after a car accident. He was complaining of vague pain in the pelvic region after he was exposed to an acceleration-deceleration trauma, seated in a children’s car seat. Radiograph of the pelvis revealed a rare image of bilateral symmetric iliac fractures. Iliac bone fracture was suspected, which was also evident on pelvis and hip magnetic resonance imaging. Additional ultrasound of the abdomen was negative. He was hospitalized for observation, and after one day, he could be discharged from the hospital without complications. Policlinic control after three, six, and ten weeks showed favorable clinical and radiographic evolution. Conclusion. Physicians should be aware of our report, which highlights a patient with the rare clinical condition of a bilateral symmetric fracture of the iliac bone after an acceleration-deceleration trauma. The differential diagnosis of acute hip pain should be considered for young patients. Always keep in mind additional injuries because of the high-energy trauma.
Using Externally Bonded CFRP to Repair a PCCP with Broken Wires under Combined Loads
Authors: Zhai Kejie , Fang Hongyuan , Fu Bing , Wang Fuming , Hu Benyue
Published: October 2019

Prestressed concrete cylinder pipe (PCCP) is widely used for long-distance water pipelines throughout the world. However, prestressing wire breakage is the most common form of PCCP damage. For some pipelines that cannot be shut down, a new technique for in-service PCCP repair by externally bonding the pipe with layers of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) was proposed. A set of three-dimensional finite element models of the repaired PCCP have been proposed and implemented in the ABAQUS software, which took into account the soil pressure, the weight of the PCCP, the weight of the water, and the hydrostatic pressure. The stress–strain features of the PCCP repaired with CFRP of various thicknesses were analyzed. The stress–strain features of different wire breakage rates for the repaired PCCP were also analyzed. The results showed that the strains and stresses decreased at the springline if the PCCP was repaired with CFRP, which improved the operation of the PCCP. It has been found that the wire breakage rates had a significant effect on the strains and stresses of each PCCP component, but CFRP failed to reach its potential tensile strength when other materials were broken.
Severe Chest Pain due to N-Acetylcysteine-Induced Esophagitis
Authors: Wang Weihong , Zhang Yu , Liu Yi , Xu Lei , Shi Dingmei
Published: October 2019

We report an unusual case of severe chest pain caused by N-acetylcysteine-induced esophagitis. An 81-year-old Chinese man with a history of interstitial lung disease was admitted to our hospital with intermittent arrhythmia that began 5 days ago. The patient presented with complaints of cough, sputum, and shortness of breath. Cefminox injections and N-acetylcysteine tablets were prescribed to improve respiratory symptoms. The patient developed severe chest pain and odynophagia 4 hours after swallowing the N-acetylcysteine tablet while in the decubitus position. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed four discrete areas of ulcerations measuring approximately 1 cm at the midesophageal level. The distance between the foci and the incisors was approximately 24 cm. The patient continued the N-acetylcysteine orally, which was administered in powdered form with more water while in the upright position. Pantoprazole and hydrotalcite were also administered to the patient. The symptoms subsided, and a follow-up endoscopy after 20 days showed that the ulcers healed. This case highlights that seemingly safe drugs such as N-acetylcysteine can lead to severe chest pain if ingested inappropriately.
Uncovering the Anticancer Mechanism of Compound Sophorae Decoction against Ulcerative Colitis-Related Colorectal Cancer in Mice
Authors: Deng Shuangjiao , Tang Qing , Duan Xueyun , Fan Heng , Zhang Lijuan , Zhu Xiwen , Hu Jianli , Xu Meng , Chen Qianyun , Liu Yujin , Dong Yalan , Nan Zhen , Wu Hui
Published: October 2019

Compound sophorae decoction (CSD), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, has been voluminously used in China to deal with ulcerative colitis and gained significant therapeutic effect. Tremendous explorations have unraveled a contributory role of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD) at the onset of colorectal cancer, scilicet, and colitis-related cancer (CRC). In light of the anti-inflammatory properties of CSD in UC, we appraised its chemoprevention capacity and underlying mechanism in ulcerative colitis-related colorectal cancer (UCRCC), employing a model of azoxymethane (AOM) plus dextran sulfate sodium- (DSS-) induced colorectal cancer (CRC) in C57BL/6 mice. Rapturously, our results illuminated the ameliorative effect of CSD against UCRCC in mice portrayed by lesser polyps or adenomas, attenuated colonic xenograft tumor growth in company with the preferable well-being of mice in contrast to the Model Group. We examined significant downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, NF-κB, IL-6, STAT3, and IL-17 after exposure to CSD, with the concomitant repression of inflammation-associated proteins, including COX-2 and iNOS. Independent of this, treatment with CSD declined the proportion of T helper 17 cells (Th17) and protein level of matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP-9). Moreover, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) detected observably suppressed mitophagy in mice administered with CSD and that was paralleled by the pro-apoptotic effect as indicated by upregulating caspase-3 together with caspase-9 and deregulating B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2). In closing, these findings suggest CSD executes the UCRCC-inhibitory activity through counteracting inflammatory responses and rescuing detuning of apoptosis as well as neutralizing overactive mitophagy, concurring to build up an oncosuppressive microenvironment.
The Application of CA and PCA to the Evaluation of Lipophilicity and Physicochemical Properties of Tetracyclic Diazaphenothiazine Derivatives
Authors: Nycz–Empel Anna , Bober Katarzyna , Wyszomirski Mirosław , Kisiel Ewa , Zięba Andrzej
Published: October 2019

The subject of the study was 11 new synthetized tetracyclic diazaphenothiazine derivatives. Using thin-layer chromatography in a reverse phase system (RP-TLC), their RM0 lipophilicity parameter was determined. The mobile phase was composed of 0.2 M Tris buffer (pH = 7.4) and acetone (POCH S.A., Gliwice, Poland) in different concentrations. Using computer programs, based on different computational algorithms, theoretical values of lipophilicity (AClogP, ALOGP, ALOGPs, miLogP, MLOGP, XLOGP2, and XLOGP3) as well as molecular descriptors (molecular weight, volume of a molecule, dipole moment, polar surface, and energy of HOMO orbitals and LUMO orbitals) and parameters of biological activity: human intestinal absorption (HIA), plasma protein binding (PPB), and blood-brain barrier (BBB), were determined. The correlations between the experimental values of lipophilicity and theoretically calculated lipophilic values and also between experimental values of lipophilicity and values of physicochemical or biological properties were assessed. A certain relationship between structure and lipophilicity was found. On the other hand, the relationships between RM0 and physicochemical or biological properties were not statistically significant and therefore unusable. For all analysed values, an analysis of similarities and principal component analyses were also made. The obtained dendrograms for the analysis of lipophilicity and physicochemical and biological properties indicate the relationship between experimental values of lipophilicity and structure in the case of theoretical lipophilicity values only. PCA, on the other hand, showed that ALOGP, MLOGP, miLogP, and BBB and molar volume have the largest share in the description of the entire system. Distribution of compounds on the area of factors also indicates the connections between them related to their structure.
Melatonin Reduces Androgen Production and Upregulates Heme Oxygenase-1 Expression in Granulosa Cells from PCOS Patients with Hypoestrogenia and Hyperandrogenia
Authors: Yu Kun , Wang Rong-Xiang , Li Meng-Hui , Sun Tie-Cheng , Zhou Yi-Wen , Li Yuan-Yuan , Sun Li-Hua , Zhang Bao-Lu , Lian Zheng-Xing , Xue Song-Guo , Liu Yi-Xun , Deng Shou-Long
Published: October 2019

Background/Aims. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder characterized by abnormal hormone levels in peripheral blood and poor-quality oocytes. PCOS is a pathophysiological syndrome caused by chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of melatonin regulation on androgen production and antioxidative damage in granulosa cells from PCOS patients with hypoestrogenia and hyperandrogenia. Methods. Cumulus-oocyte complexes were collected from PCOS patients who had low levels of estrogen in follicular fluids. Results. Melatonin triggered upregulation of cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1 (CYP19A1) expression via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway in luteinized granulosa cells. As a result, conversion of androgen to 17β-estradiol was accelerated. We also found that melatonin significantly reduced the levels of inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthetase and NO in luteinized granulosa cells. Levels of transcripts encoding NF-E2-related factor-2 and its downstream target heme oxygenase-1 were also increased, leading to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. We also found that melatonin could improve oocyte development potential. Conclusion. Our preliminary results showed that melatonin had a positive impact on oocyte quality in PCOS patients with hypoestrogenia and hyperandrogenia.
Prevalence of Anemia and Associated Factors among Newly Diagnosed Patients with Solid Malignancy at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Radiotherapy Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Kifle Edosa , Hussein Mintewab , Alemu Jemal , Tigeneh Wondemagegnhu
Published: October 2019

Background. Anemia is a common finding in cancer, which is caused by many factors. It is a major cause of morbidity in cancer patients, worsens disease status and impairs treatment outcome; however, little is known about the prevalence of anemia and associated factors among cancer patients during diagnosis in developing countries like Ethiopia. In response to this, we have conducted research with the aim of assessing the prevalence of anemia and associated factors among newly diagnosed patients with solid malignancy at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH), Radiotherapy center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods. Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2014. A total of 422 newly diagnosed patients with solid malignancy attending Radiotherapy center, TASH were enrolled to assess anemia prevalence and associated factors. Data were coded, entered and analyzed using SPSS version16. Using logistic regression, chi squares, Odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals were computed to measure strength of association between variables. p-value < 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Result. Out of 422 respondents, 285 (68%) were females and 153 (36%) of respondents fell into 35–49 age group with age range between 18 and 80 years and the median age of 45. Magnitude of solid cancers was gynecologic (28.9%), breast (22.7%), nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) (7.6%), colorectal (7.1%), sarcoma (6.9%), head and neck (4.5%), thyroid (3.3%), hepatoma (1.9%), and others (17.1%). The overall prevalence of anemia across different tumor was 23% and higher anemia prevalence was noted in gynecologic (37.7%) and colorectal carcinomas (26.7%). The majority of the anemic patients (68%) remained untreated for anemia. The mean trigger hemoglobin for transfusion was 7.7 g/dl. About 83.5% of anemia was mild to moderate type. Performance status (AOR = 3.344; 95% CI 1.410–7.927) and bleeding history (AOR = 3.628; 95% CI 1.800–7.314) showed statistically significant association with occurrence of anemia with p-value < 0.05. Conclusion. Among solid cancers, gynecologic cancer remained the dominant one. Anemia prevalence was 23% in general, in which gynecologic and colorectal cancers were more prevalent. ECOG performance status and bleeding history showed a statistically significant association with the occurrence of anemia.
Dynamic Modeling and Robust Control by ADRC of Grid‐Connected Hybrid PV‐Wind Energy Conversion System
Authors: Aboudrar Imad , El Hani Soumia , Heyine Mohamed Saleck , Naseri Nisrine
Published: October 2019

This work presents linear and nonlinear control strategies applied to a grid‐connected multiple‐source renewable energy system (wind and photovoltaic), in order to extract the maximum power and to enhance the control of the active and reactive powers. A new robust control strategy known as the active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) is proposed and applied to the hybrid renewable energy system (HRES), and it is based on the extended state observer (ESO) which allows us to estimate the internal and external disturbances such as modeling errors and parameter variations. The studied system consists of two conversion chains which are linked via a common DC bus and interconnected to the grid through a voltage source inverter (VSI); the first chain consists of a PV system and a DC‐DC boost converter, and the second chain consists of a direct‐driven wind turbine, permanent magnetic synchronous generator (PMSG), and of a AC/DC rectifier converter. The extraction of maximum power from the PV system and the wind energy conversion system is ensured by using the voltage based perturb and observe (VPO) and the optimal torque control (OTC) MPPT techniques, respectively. The ADRC technique is utilized to control the active and reactive powers by acting on the grid currents. In order to verify and validate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy, a detailed model of the studied system is designed and evaluated under the MATLAB/Simulink software. The simulation results prove the effectiveness of the MPPT techniques in terms of maximum power extraction during the variation in the environmental conditions. Additionally, the regulation of active and reactive powers is ensured by ADRC, and the system is operating at a unity power factor. Moreover, it is demonstrated that the suggested strategy is efficient in terms of fast tracking and robustness to internal and external disturbances compared to the classical PI controller.
Updating Soil Spatial Variability and Reducing Uncertainty in Soil Excavations by Kriging and Ensemble Kalman Filter
Authors: Li Yajun , Liu Kang
Published: October 2019

Field measurements can be used to improve the estimation of the performance of geotechnical projects (e.g., embankment slopes and soil excavation pits). Previous research has utilised inverse analysis (e.g., the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF)) to reduce the uncertainty of soil parameters, when measurements are related to performance, such as inflow, hydraulic head, and deformation. In addition, there are also direct measurements, such as CPT measurements, where parameters (i.e., tip resistance and sleeve friction) can be directly correlated with, e.g., soil deformation and/or strength parameters, where conditional simulation via constrained random fields can be used to improve the estimation of the spatial distribution of parameters. This paper combines these two (i.e., direct and indirect) methods together in a soil excavation analysis. The results demonstrate that the parameter uncertainty (and thereby the uncertainty in the response) can be significantly reduced when the two methods are combined.
A General 3D Nonstationary Vehicle-to-Vehicle Channel Model Allowing 3D Arbitrary Trajectory and 3D-Shaped Antenna Array
Authors: Zhu Qiuming , Li Weidong , Yang Ying , Xu Dazhuan , Zhong Weizhi , Chen Xiaomin
Published: October 2019

Most of the existing channel model for multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications only considered that the terminals were equipped with linear antenna arrays and moved with fixed velocities. Nevertheless, under the realistic environment, those models are not practical since the velocities and trajectories of mobile transmitter (MT) and mobile receiver (MR) could be time-variant and unpredictable due to the complex traffic conditions. This paper develops a general 3D nonstationary V2V channel model, which is based on the traditional geometry-based stochastic models (GBSMs) and the twin-cluster approach. In contrast to the traditional models, this new model is characterized by 3D scattering environments, 3D antenna arrays, and 3D arbitrary trajectories of both terminals and scatterers. The calculating methods of channel parameters are also provided. In addition, the statistical properties, i.e., spatial-temporal correlation function (STCF) and Doppler power spectrum density (DPSD), are derived in detail. Simulation results have demonstrated that the output statistical properties of the proposed model agree well with the theoretical and measured results, which verifies the effectiveness of theoretical derivations and channel model as well.