bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lubiprostone protects esophageal mucosa from acid injury in porcine esophagus
Authors: Krüger Leandi , Pridgen Tiffany A. , Taylor Ellie R. , Garman Katherine S. , Blikslager Anthony T.
Published: February 2020

Esophageal injury from acid exposure related to gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common problem and a risk factor for development of Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. Our previous work highlights the benefits of using porcine esophagus to study human esophageal disease because of the similarities between porcine and human esophagus. In particular, esophageal submucosal glands (ESMGs) are present in human esophagus and proximal porcine esophagus but not in rodent esophagus. Although CFTR is expressed in the ducts of ESMGs, very little is known about CFTR and alternate anion channels, including ClC-2, in the setting of acid-related esophageal injury. After finding evidence of CFTR and ClC-2 in the basal layers of the squamous epithelium, and in the ducts of the ESMGs, we developed an ex vivo porcine model of esophageal acid injury. In this model, esophageal tissue was placed in Ussing chambers to determine the effect of pretreatment with the ClC-2 agonist lubiprostone on tissue damage related to acid exposure. Pretreatment with lubiprostone significantly reduced the level of acid injury and significantly augmented the recovery of the injured tissue ( P < 0.05). Evaluation of the interepithelial tight junctions showed well-defined membrane localization of occludin in lubiprostone-treated injured tissues. Pretreatment of tissues with the Na+-K+-2Cl−cotransporter inhibitor bumetanide blocked lubiprostone-induced increases in short-circuit current and inhibited the reparative effect of lubiprostone. Furthermore, inhibition of ClC-2 with ZnCl2blocked the effects of lubiprostone. We conclude that ClC-2 contributes to esophageal protection from acid exposure, potentially offering a new therapeutic target.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This research is the first to describe the presence of anion channels ClC-2 and CFTR localized to the basal epithelia of porcine esophageal mucosa and the esophageal submucosal glands. In the setting of ex vivo acid exposure, the ClC-2 agonist lubiprostone reduced acid-related injury and enhanced recovery of the epithelial barrier. This work may ultimately provide an alternate mechanism for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Blast-Casting Mechanism and Parameter Optimization of a Benched Deep-Hole in an Opencast Coal Mine
Authors: Ma Li , Lai Xingping , Zhang Jianguo , Xiao Shuangshuang , Zhang Leiming , Tu Yuhang
Published: February 2020

During the research on bench deep-hole blast casting, the blast-casting parameters are directly related to the blast-casting results, so it could reveal the mechanism for improving the effect thereof. Based on the principle of the plane charge method, both the stress wave and detonation gas were considered to affect rock fragmentation and casting, a model of overburden fragmentation and casting process around the blasting hole was established, and bench deep-hole blast-casting behaviours were elucidated. By using the Factor Analysis Method (FAM), a correlation analysis model of factors influencing blast-casting results was built. The results proved that powder factor (or specific charge) ranked first in terms of its influence, followed by hole spacing, minimum resistance line, burden, and bench height. The formulae for calculating the limit powder factor value and the spacing of blasting holes were derived for different rock properties. The results showed that the optimum hole spacing was no more than 12.49 m and the powder factor was no more than 0.75 kg/m3, and it proved that an effective casting percentage (ECP) of 34% could be realized.
Nomogram for Individualized Prediction of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Portal Vein Tumor Thrombosis on Conservative Treatment
Authors: Liu Yao , Xue Dongying , Zhang Xiaogang , Gao Fangyuan , Sun Le , Yang Xue , Li Yuxin , Zhang Qun , Zhu Bingbing , Niu Shuaishuai , Huang Yunyi , Hu Ying , Wang Xianbo
Published: February 2020

Background. Portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT) is one of the major predictive factors for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The objective of this study was to establish a prognostic nomogram for identifying individual survival outcomes in patients with HCC and PVTT on conservative treatment based on specific factors. Methods. Two hundred and ten patients with HCC and PVTT on conservative treatment in Beijing Ditan Hospital between June 2008 and May 2017 were studied retrospectively as a derivation cohort. We built a nomogram based on independent risk factors for survival prediction. The concordance index (c‐index) and a calibration curve were used to evaluate the predictive accuracy. During the study, 102 patients were included at the Putuo Hospital and Third People’s Hospital of Changzhou as a validation cohort. Results. In the derivation cohort, the independent factors for overall survival were identified by multivariate analysis, namely, aspartate aminotransferase ≥119 IU/L, gamma‐glutamyl transferase ≥115 IU/L, Child–Pugh class C liver function, creatinine ≥91 μmoI/L, α‐fetoprotein ≥400 ng/ml, and largest tumor diameter ≥5 cm. The nomogram had a c‐index of 0.737 (95% confidence interval, 0.692–0.782) and the calibration curves fitted well. The median survival time was 4.2 months in the derivation cohort, with an MST of 5 months for BCLC C stage and 1.8 months for BCLC D stage patients. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed significant statistical differences in the 6‐month overall survival rates of the primary and validation cohorts after the total scores were divided into three quartiles (low risk: 0–85; intermediate risk: 86–210; high risk: ≥211; p < 0.0001 in both cohorts). Conclusions. The nomogram can be a more accurate and individualized prediction for 6‐month overall survival of patients with HCC and PVTT on conservative treatment, and it is possible to consider further active interventions for patients in the low‐risk group (0–85 scores) to achieve the aim of prolonging survival.
DNA Methylation May be Involved in the Analgesic Effect of Hyperbaric Oxygen via Regulating FUNDC1
Authors: Liu Kun , Wu Hao , Gao Rui , Han Guang
Published: February 2020

Background. Neuropathic pain (NP) is a type of chronic pain which lacks predictable, effective, and safe therapeutic options. We investigated the role of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) in expression of FUN14 domain-containing 1 (FUNDC1), which is associated with DNA methylation. Methods. We randomly divided rats into four groups: sham operation (S), S + HBO, chronic constriction injury (CCI), and CCI + HBO. Lumbar (L)4 and L5 dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) were used to assess expression of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT)1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b by western blotting and RT-PCR. Pain-related behaviors were evaluated using mechanical withdrawal threshold and thermal withdrawal latency analysis. Western blotting was also used to assess expression of FUNDC1, BCL2, and adenovirus E1B19 kDa-interacting protein 3-like (NIX) and BCL2 and adenovirus E1B19 kDa-interacting protein3 (BNIP3). And we also examined the changes of FUNDC1 with immunofluorescence. Nonnucleoside DNA methyltransferase inhibitor RG108 was administered prior to CCI. The pain-related behavior and western blotting changes were examined in all groups. Results. DNMT3a expression was higher on day 14 after CCI. HBO downregulated DNMT3a mRNA and protein expression, but not those of DNMT1 and DNMT3b. HBO increased pain-related behavior significantly, while it was down-regulated by RG108. In HBO groups, FUNDC1, NIX, and BNIP3 expression was upregulated more significantly than in the CCI group. In addition, FUNDC1 protein colocalized with NeuN and rarely with glutamine synthetase. However, expression was reduced when RG108 was administered. Immunofluorescence showed that FUNDC1 was upregulated after HBO treatment. Conclusion. Our findings suggest that DNA methylation is involved in the analgesic effect of HBO via the regulation of FUNDC1.
Improvement of Black‐Odor Water by Pichia Strain GW1 under Optimized NH3‐N Degradation Conditions
Authors: Xie Haiwei , Wang Mingyang , Zeng Huayang , Yu Mingrong , Wu Zijian , Chen Shuhong , Zhao Shaotian , Zheng Jie , Deng Dun
Published: February 2020

In this study, a yeast strain with an outstanding NH3‐N degradation ability was isolated from the sediment of a black‐odor water channel in Guangdong Province, China. Based on phenotypic and phylogenetic analysis, this strain was identified as Pichia kudriavzevii GW1. The optimum conditions for NH3‐N degradation by the GW1 strain were as follows: 0.3% inoculum concentration, 1.5 L/min aeration, pH 7, and a temperature of 35°C. Under optimized conditions, the GW1 strain degraded 95.5% of the NH3‐N. The strain was then added to simulated black‐odor water under optimal degradation conditions to investigate changes to the bacterial community over time. 16S rRNA sequencing of samples collected on days 0, 7, 14, and 21 showed that, in the presence of the GW1 strain, the relative abundances of the phyla Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Chloroflexi, and Firmicutes increased in the black‐odor water. In addition, the relative abundance of Propionivibrio, a known NH3‐N degrading genus, increased. This study will facilitate the use of microbiological methods to repair black‐odor water.
Mathematical Analysis of the Effects of Controls on the Transmission Dynamics of Anthrax in Both Animal and Human Populations
Authors: Baloba Elijah B. , Seidu Baba , Bornaa Christopher Saaha
Published: February 2020

A nonlinear differential equation model is proposed to study the impact of vaccination on the transmission dynamics of anthrax in both livestock and human populations. The model is shown to exhibit only two equilibria, namely, the disease-free and the endemic equilibrium points, which are proven to be locally stable if the basic reproduction number (ℛ0) is less than unity and greater than unity, respectively. Local sensitivity analysis shows that the infection rate, pathogen-shedding rate, and rate of vaccination of livestock are parameters with the most positive impact on disease spread, whereas the rate of disinfection followed by the rate of vaccination are the parameters with the most negative impact on disease spread. Numerical simulation shows that implementing all control measures (i.e., vaccination, education, disinfection, and treatment) is a most effective strategy to curb disease spread.
Additional Diagnostic Value of Unenhanced Computed Tomography plus Diffusion‐Weighted Imaging Combined with Routine Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings of Early‐Stage Gliblastoma
Authors: Wang Hexiang , Liu Zhenyou , Zhang Yong , Hou Feng , Fu Weiwei , Lin Jizheng , Liu Yingchao , Liu Xuejun
Published: February 2020

Purpose. This study was performed to determine whether diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) plus unenhanced computed tomography (CT) of the brain increases the diagnostic value of routine magnetic resonance (MR) imaging findings of early‐stage glioblastoma. Methods. Postcontrast MR images of eight unenhanced lesions that had been pathologically diagnosed as glioblastoma were retrospectively examined. The location, margin, signal intensity, and attenuation on MR imaging and CT were assessed. Results. On MR imaging, all lesions were ill‐defined, small, and isointense to hypointense on T1‐weighted images and hyperintense on T2‐weighted images. Four patients had perilesional edema. In seven patients, DWI showed an inhomogeneous hyperintense lesion (n = 1) or isointense lesion with a hyperintense region (n = 6). On unenhanced CT, all masses presented as a hypoattenuated lesion with a hyperattenuated region (n = 7) or isoattenuated region (n = 1). The hyperattenuated region (n = 6) or isoattenuated region (n = 1) on CT appeared on DWI as an inhomogeneous hyperintense lesion (n = 1), isointense lesion with a hyperintense region (n = 3), or ring‐like peritumoral hyperintensity (n = 3). Conclusions. MR imaging was the most sensitive imaging method for depicting early‐stage glioblastoma. The CT finding of a hyperattenuated or isoattenuated region combined with the DWI finding of the same region containing an inhomogeneous hyperintense lesion or isointense lesion with a hyperintense region may be a specific diagnostic sign for early‐stage glioblastoma. DWI plus unenhanced CT added diagnostic value to the routine MR imaging findings of early‐stage glioblastoma.
Five Novel Mutations in LOXHD1 Gene Were Identified to Cause Autosomal Recessive Nonsyndromic Hearing Loss in Four Chinese Families
Authors: Bai Xiaohui , Zhang Chi , Zhang Fengguo , Xiao Yun , Jin Yu , Wang Haibo , Xu Lei
Published: February 2020

Hearing loss is one of the most common sensory disorders in newborns and is mostly caused by genetic factors. Autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) is usually characterized as a severe‐to‐profound congenital sensorineural hearing loss and later can cause various degrees of defect in the language and intelligent development of newborns. The mutations in LOXHD1 gene have been shown to cause DFNB77, a type of ARNSHL. To date, there are limited reports about the association between LOXHD1 gene and ARNSHL. In this study, we reported six patients from four Chinese families suffering from severe‐to‐profound nonsyndromic hearing loss. We performed targeted next generation sequencing in the six affected members and identified five novel pathogenic mutations in LOXHD1 including c.277G>A (p.D93N), c.611‐2A>T, c.1255+3A>G, c.2329C>T (p.Q777 ∗), and c.5888delG (p.G1963Afs ∗136). These mutations were confirmed to be cosegregated with the hearing impairment in the families by Sanger sequencing and were inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. All of the five mutations were absent in 200 control subjects. There were no symptoms of Fuchs corneal dystrophy in the probands and their blood‐related relatives. We concluded that these five novel mutations could be involved in the underlying mechanism resulting in the hearing loss, and this discovery expands the genotypic spectrum of LOXHD1 mutations.
Fully Developed Flow of a Nanofluid through a Circular Micropipe in the Presence of Electroosmotic Effects
Authors: Niazi Muhammad D. K. , Xu Hang
Published: February 2020

Microscale heat sinks based on channels or pipes are designed to restrict the temperatures of microelectromechanical systems, which have a wide range of applications in the modern engineering and mechanics. In this context, this work aims to study heat convection and entropy generation of a fully developed nanofluid flow in a circular micropipe in the presence of an electrical double layer. Buongiorno’s model is employed to exhibit the nanofluid behavior. The governing equations are reduced to a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations through appropriate similarity transformations. Particularly, we rectify the pressure term as an unknown constant, which makes our flow model compatible with those well-known fluid flow models in macrosize. Highly accurate solutions are obtained and verified. Analysis for physical properties of electric field, velocity field, temperature, and nanoparticle distributions is discussed followed by an investigation of the entropy evolution in the flow. The results show that flow behavior and total entropy of the system depend on the electroosmosis, thermophoresis, and fluid viscosity. However, the influence of the electrical double layer on the flow and system entropy is negligible when the electroosmotic parameter exceeds a maximum value.
Design of a Machine Learning-Assisted Wearable Accelerometer-Based Automated System for Studying the Effect of Dopaminergic Medicine on Gait Characteristics of Parkinson’s Patients
Authors: Aich Satyabrata , Pradhan Pyari Mohan , Chakraborty Sabyasachi , Kim Hee-Cheol , Kim Hee-Tae , Lee Hae-Gu , Kim Il Hwan , Joo Moon-il , Jong Seong Sim , Park Jinse
Published: February 2020

In the last few years, the importance of measuring gait characteristics has increased tenfold due to their direct relationship with various neurological diseases. As patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease (PD) are more prone to a movement disorder, the quantification of gait characteristics helps in personalizing the treatment. The wearable sensors make the measurement process more convenient as well as feasible in a practical environment. However, the question remains to be answered about the validation of the wearable sensor-based measurement system in a real-world scenario. This paper proposes a study that includes an algorithmic approach based on collected data from the wearable accelerometers for the estimation of the gait characteristics and its validation using the Tinetti mobility test and 3D motion capture system. It also proposes a machine learning-based approach to classify the PD patients from the healthy older group (HOG) based on the estimated gait characteristics. The results show a good correlation between the proposed approach, the Tinetti mobility test, and the 3D motion capture system. It was found that decision tree classifiers outperformed other classifiers with a classification accuracy of 88.46%. The obtained results showed enough evidence about the proposed approach that could be suitable for assessing PD in a home-based free-living real-time environment.
A Method for Identifying Defects on Highly Reflective Roller Surface Based on Image Library Matching
Authors: Shao Wei , Peng Peng , Shao Yunqiu , Zhou Awei
Published: February 2020

Identification of the highly reflective surface defects on roller parts is a requirement to assure high quality of parts. However, the highly reflective roller surface has the reflection characteristics, which easily lead to the missed detection or wrong detection of defect targets in the visual recognition process. For this problem, a new identification method based on image library matching is proposed. First, to protect the edge information of the defect target while eliminating noise, preprocessing of the measured initial images can be accomplished by using the accelerated optimized bilateral filtering. Second, the entropy and grid gray gradient are used to achieve rough segmentation of highly reflective surface defects on roller parts. Finally, a defect fine identification method based on the Hu invariant moment matching integrated with morphological classification is proposed for achieving image library matching and further quickly removing the pseudodefects. Experimental tests were conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method in achieving accurate identification of highly reflective surface defects on roller parts. The proposed method has an accuracy of 98.2%, and the running time can basically meet the requirements of real-time performance.
Assessment of Nitrofurantoin as an Experimental Intracanal Medicament in Endodontics
Authors: Alrahman Mewan Salahalddin A. , Faraj Bestoon Muhammed , Dizaye Kawa F.
Published: February 2020

Background and Objectives. Multiple antibacterial agents have been mixed and used as an intracanal medicament‐like modified triple antibiotic paste (MTAP) to eliminate Enterococcus faecalis (EF), which has been most frequently identified in the cases of failed root canal treatment and periapical lesions. This study is aimed at using a single antibacterial agent, nitrofurantoin (Nit), as an experimental intracanal medicament paste against different clinical isolates of EF bacteria and at comparing its antimicrobial efficacy with MTAP. Materials and Methods. Three strains of EF (S1, S2, and S3) were clinically isolated. A total of 198 straight single‐rooted human teeth were collected and divided randomly into three main groups: group N (Nit) (n = 90), group M (MTAP) (n = 90), and group W (distilled water) (n = 18). The main groups were subdivided into three subgroups according to the strain of EF: in groups N and M, subgroups S1, S2, and S3 (n = 30), while in group W, subgroups S1, S2, and S3 (n = 6). Then, each subgroup of N and M was divided into five groups (n = 6) according to the concentrations of Nit or MTAP (6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, and 100 mg/mL). The colony‐forming unit (CFU) of EF from the canal lumen and dentinal chips was measured. Results. Nit could eradicate S1, S2, and S3 completely with concentrations of 6.25, 12.5, and 25 mg/mL, respectively, while MTAP showed complete eradication of the three strains only at 25 mg/mL. In all the groups, it was found that the CFU counts of EF in the dentinal chips were higher than those in the root canal lumen. Conclusion. At the concentration of 25 mg/mL, the Nit paste is effective in eradicating EF completely when it is used as an intracanal medicament.
An Energy-Efficient Task Scheduling Mechanism with Switching On/Sleep Mode of Servers in Virtualized Cloud Data Centers
Authors: Yin Chunxia , Liu Jian , Jin Shunfu
Published: February 2020

In recent years, the energy consumption of cloud data centers has continued to increase. A large number of servers run at a low utilization rate, which results in a great waste of power. To save more energy in a cloud data center, we propose an energy-efficient task-scheduling mechanism with switching on/sleep mode of servers in the virtualized cloud data center. The key idea is that when the number of idle VMs reaches a specified threshold, the server with the most idle VMs will be switched to sleep mode after migrating all the running tasks to other servers. From the perspective of the total number of tasks and the number of servers in sleep mode in the system, we establish a two-dimensional Markov chain to analyse the proposed energy-efficient mechanism. By using the method of the matrix-geometric solution, we mathematically estimate the energy consumption and the response performance. Both numerical and simulated experiments show that our proposed energy-efficient mechanism can effectively reduce the energy consumption and guarantee the response performance. Finally, by constructing a cost function, the number of VMs hosted on each server is optimized.
Identifying Dysregulated lncRNA‐Associated ceRNA Network Biomarkers in CML Based on Dynamical Network Biomarkers
Authors: Xu Junhua , Wu Min , Sun Yichen , Zhao Hongqian , Wang Yujie , Gao Jie
Published: February 2020

The incidence of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is increasing year by year, which is a serious threat to human health. Early diagnosis can reduce mortality and improve prognosis. LncRNAs have been shown to be effective biomarkers for a variety of diseases and can act as competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA). In this study, the dysregulated lncRNA‐associated ceRNA networks (DLCN) of the chronic phase (CP), accelerated phase (AP), and blastic crisis (BC) for CML are constructed. Then, based on dynamic network biomarkers (DNB), some dysregulated lncRNA‐associated ceRNA network biomarkers of CP, AP, and BC for CML are identified according to DNB criteria. Thus, a lncRNA (SNHG5) is identified from DLCN_CP, a lncRNA (DLEU2) is identified from DLCN_AP, and two lncRNAs (SNHG3, SNHG5) are identified from DLCN_BC. In addition, the critical index (CI) used to detect disease outbreaks shows that CML occurs in CP, which is consistent with clinical medicine. By analyzing the functions of the identified ceRNA network biomarkers, it has been found that they are effective lncRNA biomarkers directly or indirectly related to CML. The result of this study will help deepen the understanding of CML pathology from the perspective of ceRNA and help discover the effective biomarkers of CP, AP, and BC for CML in the future, so as to help patients get timely treatment and reduce the mortality of CML.
A Radiographic Study of Biomechanical Relationship between the Achilles Tendon and Plantar Fascia
Authors: Zhu Genrui , Wang Zhifeng , Yuan Chengjie , Geng Xiang , Zhang Chao , Huang Jiazhang , Wang Xu , Ma Xin
Published: February 2020

Background. Previously, scholars have concluded that the Achilles tendon and the plantar fascia were closely biomechanically related, although there is little clinical evidence of the relationship between the two. To investigate the biomechanical relationship between the Achilles tendon and the plantar fascia, the author used standing lateral ankle radiographs of patients with insertional Achilles tendonitis to determine the biomechanical relationship between the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia. Methods. The author collected standing lateral ankle radiographs from patients with insertional Achilles tendonitis who accepted surgical treatment in the author’s hospital from March 2009 to July 2018. According to whether there were bone spurs on the posterior side of the calcaneus, patients were divided into group A (spur present on the posterior side) and group B (spur not present on the posterior side). The positive rates of spurs on the plantar side of the calcaneus were determined in group A and group B. The chi‐square test was used to compare the measurement results between the two groups. Results. In group A, 13 heels were positive for calcaneal bone spurs, and the positive rate was 65.0%. In group B, 3 heels were positive for plantar calcaneal spurs, and the positive rate was 12%. Among all 16 patients with positive plantar calcaneal spurs, 13 had posterior calcaneal spurs (accounting for 81.3%), and 3 had negative results, accounting for 18.7%. There was a significant difference between the results in groups A and B (P < 0.05). Conclusion. There is a relationship between posterior calcaneal spurs and plantar calcaneal spurs in patients with insertional Achilles tendonitis, which can be inferred as resulting from the increasing tension in the biomechanically complex relationship between the Achilles tendon and the plantar fascia.
A Hybrid Algorithm Framework with Learning and Complementary Fusion Features for Whale Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Tong Wangyu
Published: February 2020

It has been observed that the structure of whale optimization algorithm (WOA) is good at exploiting capability, but it easily suffers from premature convergence. Hybrid metaheuristics are of the most interesting recent trends for improving the performance of WOA. In this paper, a hybrid algorithm framework with learning and complementary fusion features for WOA is designed, called hWOAlf. First, WOA is integrated with complementary feature operators to enhance exploration capability. Second, the proposed algorithm framework adopts a learning parameter lp according to adaptive adjustment operator to replace the random parameter p. To further verify the efficiency of the hWOAlf, the DE/rand/1 operator of differential evolution (DE) and the mutate operator of backtracking search optimization algorithm (BSA) are embedded into WOA, respectively, to form two new algorithms called WOA-DE and WOA-BSA under the proposed framework. Twenty-three benchmark functions and six engineering design problems are employed to test the performance of WOA-DE and WOA-BSA. Experimental results show that WOA-DE and WOA-BSA are competitive compared with some state-of-the-art algorithms.
The Neutrophil Percentage‐to‐Albumin Ratio Is Associated with All‐Cause Mortality in Critically Ill Patients with Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Wang Benji , Li Diwen , Cheng Bihuan , Ying Binyu , Gong Yuqiang
Published: February 2020

Background. There is no evidence to suggest the predictive power of neutrophil percentage‐to‐albumin ratio (NPAR) in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI). We hypothesized that NPAR would correlate with all‐cause mortality in critically ill patients with AKI. Methods. From the MIMIC‐III V1.4 database, we extracted demographics, vital signs, comorbidities, laboratory tests, and other clinical data. The clinical endpoints were 30‐, 90‐ and 365‐day all‐cause mortality in critically ill patients with AKI. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the prognostic values of NPAR, and subgroup analyses were performed to measure mortality across various subgroups. Results. A total of 7,481 eligible subjects were enrolled. In multivariate analysis, after adjustments for age, ethnicity, gender, and other confounding factors, higher NPARs were associated with an increased risk of 30‐, 90‐ and 365‐day all‐cause mortality in critically ill patients with AKI (tertile 3 versus tertile 1: adjusted HR, 95% CI: 1.48, 1.30–1.69; 1.47, 1.31–1.66; 1.46, 1.32–1.62, respectively; P trend <0.01). A similar trend was observed in the NPAR group division by quintiles. Subgroup analysis revealed no significant interactions in most strata. Conclusions. Increased NPAR correlates with increased risk of all‐cause mortality in critically ill patients with AKI.
Molecular Diagnosis of Pneumonia Using Multiplex Real-Time PCR Assay RespiFinder® SMART 22 FAST in a Group of Moroccan Infants
Authors: Hattoufi Kenza , Tligui Houssain , Obtel Majdouline , El Ftouh Sobha , Kharbach Aicha , Barkat Amina
Published: February 2020

Background. In Morocco, pediatric pneumonia remains a serious public health problem, as it constitutes the first cause of mortality due to infectious diseases. The etiological diagnosis of acute respiratory tract infections is difficult. Therefore, it is necessary to use Multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction assay tests in a routine setting for exact and fast identification. Objectives. In this paper, we present the clinical results of pediatric pneumonia and describe their etiology by using molecular diagnosis. Study design: Tracheal secretion was collected from infants presenting respiratory distress isolated or associated with systemic signs, attending the unit of Neonatology between December 1, 2016, and Mai 31, 2018. Samples were tested with the multiplex RespiFinder® SMART 22 FAST which potentially detects 18 viruses and 4 bacteria. Results. Of the 86 infants considered in this study (mean age 31 ± 19 days) suspected of acute respiratory tract infections, 71 (83%) were positive for one or multiple viruses or/and bacteria. The majority of acute respiratory tract infections had a viral origin (95%): respiratory syncytial viruses (A and B) (49%), rhinovirus (21%), coronaviruses 229E (11%), humain metapneumovirus (5%), influenza A (3%), influenza H1N1 (1%), adenovirus (2%), and parainfluenza virus type 4 (2%). Among our patients, 6% had Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Coinfections were not associated with severe respiratory symptoms. Conclusion. The clinical spectrum of respiratory infections is complex and often nonspecific. Thus, the early and fast detection of related causative agents is crucial. The use of multiplex real time polymerase chain reaction may help choose an accurate treatment, reduce the overall use of unnecessary antibiotics, preserve intestinal flora, and decrease nosocomial infection by reducing the length of hospitalization.
Chitosan-Based Layer-by-Layer Assembly: Towards Application on Quality Maintenance of Lemon Fruits
Authors: Chen Fangyuan , Zhang Jinglin , Chen Cunkun , Kowaleguet M. G. Gloire Martha , Ban Zhaojun , Fei Lifeng , Xu Chengchen
Published: February 2020

We fabricated a novel chitosan-carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) layer-by-layer assembly system to facilitate the postharvest quality of the fresh produce. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), TA-XT2 texture analyzer, water vapor permeability (WVP) analyzer, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were applied to compare the properties of chitosan and layer-by-layer assembly. The strategy involved the optimization of water vapor permeability, puncture strength, and elasticity properties of multiplayer polymer coating. Results showed that the lemon (Citrus limon (L.) Burm. f.), coated by chitosan-CMC layer-by-layer assembly, displayed significantly higher lemon firmness and vitamin C content with excellent morphology, as well as inhibited weight loss and flesh browning. This study could provide support for quality maintenance in the fruit and vegetable industry and make a significant contribution to the utilization of the natural polysaccharide as a viable resource.
Adherence to Allergen Subcutaneous Immunotherapy is Increased by a Shortened Build‐Up Phase: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Caruso Cristiano , Bramé Barbara , Bagnasco Diego , Cocconcelli Alessia , Ortolani Valeria , Pravettoni Valerio , Scarpa Sergio , Zisa Giuliana , Passalacqua Giovanni , Colantuono Stefania
Published: February 2020

Introduction. The poor long‐term adherence is known to affect the efficacy of allergen immunotherapy (AIT). In the case of injection AIT (SCIT), one of the main determinants is the inconvenience for patients to undergo prolonged build‐up phases. Thus, simplifying the time schedule of the induction protocol could be effective in increasing the adherence to SCIT. Methods. We backtracked the SCIT renewal orders, thanks to the cooperation of the manufacturing company, and we compared the long‐term adherence of 152 patients, who were prescribed with an abbreviated build‐up schedule (4 injections, allergoid) with that of 302 patients treated with the same product, but with the traditional build‐up protocol (7 injections). Results. According to the patient‐named refills, those patients on the abbreviated build‐up were significantly more compliant at the 2nd and 3rd year of treatment compared to the other group (p = 0.0001). The drop‐out rate after one year was also significantly lower between the two groups (p = 0.0001). In the abbreviated group, as expected, reimbursed patients showed significantly better adherence compared with patients with no reimbursement at all (p < 0.05). Conclusions. Abbreviating the build‐up phase by reducing the number of injections significantly improves patients’ adherence to SCIT.
Adipogenesis Regulation and Endocrine Disruptors: Emerging Insights in Obesity
Authors: González-Casanova Jorge Enrique , Pertuz-Cruz Sonia Liliana , Caicedo-Ortega Nelson Hernando , Rojas-Gomez Diana Marcela
Published: February 2020

Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are defined as environmental pollutants capable of interfering with the functioning of the hormonal system. They are environmentally distributed as synthetic fertilizers, electronic waste, and several food additives that are part of the food chain. They can be considered as obesogenic compounds since they have the capacity to influence cellular events related to adipose tissue, altering lipid metabolism and adipogenesis processes. This review will present the latest scientific evidence of different EDs such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs), heavy metals, “nonpersistent” phenolic compounds, triclosan, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and smoke‐derived compounds (benzo ‐alpha‐pyrene) and their influence on the differentiation processes towards adipocytes in both in vitro and in vivo models.
Evaluating Antiplasmodial and Antimalarial Activities of Soybean (Glycine max) Seed Extracts on P. falciparum Parasite Cultures and P. berghei-Infected Mice
Authors: Nyandwaro Kevin , Oyweri Job , Kimani Francis , Mbugua Amos
Published: February 2020

Background. Plasmodium parasite resistance to artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) calls for development of new, affordable, safe, and effective antimalarial drugs. Studies conducted previously on soybean extracts have established that they possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancerous, and antioxidant properties. The activity of such extracts on Plasmodium parasites has not been potentially exploited. Objectives. The aim of this study was to determine the antiplasmodial activity of soybean extracts using Plasmodium falciparum cultures, followed by an in vivo evaluation of safety and antimalarial activity of the extracts in Plasmodium berghei ANKA strain-infected mice. Method. Aqueous, methanol, and peptide extracts of soybean seeds were prepared. An in vitro evaluation of the extracts for antiplasmodial activity was carried out using two P. falciparum strains: D6, a chloroquine-sensitive Sierra Leone 1 strain and W2, a chloroquine-resistant Indochina 1 strain. Following the in vitro assessment, two active extracts (peptide and methanol) were selected for in vivo assay with mice infected with P. berghei ANKA strain. The two extracts were tested for their therapeutic potential (curative test). The peptide extract was further assessed to determine whether it could prevent the establishment of a P. berghei infection (prophylactic test). For the curative tests, methanol and peptide extracts were separately administered orally to three groups of five P. berghei-infected Swiss albino mice for four days, at three dosage levels: 800, 400, and 200 mg/kg/day. In the prophylactic test, the similar dosage regimen was applied at baseline to 3 groups of uninfected mice using the peptide extract which was administered orally for 4 days. Results. Peptide and methanol extracts showed good activity with IC50 of 19.97 ± 2.57 μg/ml and 10.14 ± 9.04 μg/ml, respectively, against the D6 strain. The IC50 values for the peptide and methanol extracts were 28.61 ± 1.32 μg/ml and 14.87 ± 3.43 μg/ml, respectively, against the W2 strain. Methanol and peptide extracts exhibited high parasite-suppressive (therapeutic) activity of 72.9% and 71.9%, respectively, using the 800 mg/kg dose. In the prophylactic test, the peptide extract exhibited suppressive activity of 64.7% upon use of 800 mg/kg. Notably, there was a significant decrease (P<0.001) in suppression with lower doses. Conclusion. The results show the presence of antimalarial properties in soybean extracts with higher curative activity when compared to the prophylactic activity. However, more research needs to be conducted on this plant to possibly establish lead compounds.
In Vitro Acaricidal Activity of Selected Medicinal Plants Traditionally Used against Ticks in Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Kemal Jelalu , Zerihun Tesfaheywet , Alemu Sisay , Sali Kedir , Nasir Musa , Abraha Ashebr , Feyera Teka
Published: February 2020

A study was carried out to evaluate the acaricidal activities of crude methanolic extract of leaves of six medicinal plants, namely, Vernonia amygdalina, Calpurnia aurea, Schinus molle, Ricinus communis, Croton macrostachyus, and Nicotiana tabacum, against Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) decoloratus and Rhipicephalus pulchellus using an in vitro adult immersion test. Five graded concentrations of the crude extracts, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, and 100 mg/ml, were tested at different time intervals, and temporal changes in tick viability were recorded for 24 hours. Diazinon (0.1%) and distilled water were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. Standard procedures were applied to screen the phytochemical constituents of the tested plant parts. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of a condensed amount of tannins in all extracts. Starting from 30 min post exposure, the 100 mg/ml concentration of C. aurea and R. communis extracts has caused significantly higher mortality (P<0.05) compared to the diazinon. A significant increase in tick mortality started 2 hr post exposure with diazinon and 50 and 100 mg/ml concentrations of S. molle. Vernonia amygdalina extract and diazinon showed a significant increase in tick mortality 3 hr post exposure with 100 mg/ml concentration. Similarly, a significant increase in tick mortality started 2 hr post exposure with diazinon and 100 mg/ml concentrations of C. macrostachyus and N. tabacum. At 24 hr post exposure, diazinon and 50 and 100 mg/ml concentrations of all the extracts have caused significantly higher tick mortality than the rest of the concentrations (P<0.05). Higher concentrations of all the extracts had showed a comparable and strong acaricidal effect on Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) decoloratus and Rhipicephalus pulchellus having no significant difference with that of the positive control (P>0.05) at 24 hr post exposure period. Tick killing activity of all evaluated plant extracts increases with increasing exposure time and concentration as well. Thus, all the tested plants could be used against Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) decoloratus and Rhipicephalus pulchellus as a potential alternative to substitute commercially available drugs. We recommend further study on fractionating each component separately and validating the materials.
A Novel Low-Bit Quantization Strategy for Compressing Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Long Xin , Zeng XiangRong , Ben Zongcheng , Zhou Dianle , Zhang Maojun
Published: February 2020

The increase in sophistication of neural network models in recent years has exponentially expanded memory consumption and computational cost, thereby hindering their applications on ASIC, FPGA, and other mobile devices. Therefore, compressing and accelerating the neural networks are necessary. In this study, we introduce a novel strategy to train low-bit networks with weights and activations quantized by several bits and address two corresponding fundamental issues. One is to approximate activations through low-bit discretization for decreasing network computational cost and dot-product memory. The other is to specify weight quantization and update mechanism for discrete weights to avoid gradient mismatch. With quantized low-bit weights and activations, the costly full-precision operation will be replaced by shift operation. We evaluate the proposed method on common datasets, and results show that this method can dramatically compress the neural network with slight accuracy loss.
Microbiome within Primary Tumor Tissue from Renal Cell Carcinoma May Be Associated with PD-L1 Expression of the Venous Tumor Thrombus
Authors: Liss Michael A. , Chen Yidong , Rodriguez Ronald , Pruthi Deepak , Johnson-Pais Teresa , Wang Hanzhang , Mansour Ahmed , White James R. , Kaushik Dharam
Published: February 2020

Objective. To perform a proof of concept microbiome evaluation and PD-L1 expression profiling in clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (cc-RCC) with associated tumor thrombus (TT). Methods. After IRB approval, six patients underwent radical nephrectomy (RN) with venous tumor thrombectomy (VTT). We collected fresh tissue specimens from normal adjacent, tumor, and thrombus tissues. We utilized RNA sequencing to obtain PD-L1 expression profiles and perform microbiome analysis. Statistical assessment was performed using Student’s t-test, chi-square, and spearman rank correlations using SPSS v25. Results. We noted the tumor thrombus to be mostly devoid of diverse microbiota. A large proportion of Staphylococcus epidermidus was detected and unknown if this is a surgical or postsurgical contaminant; however, it was noted more in the thrombus than other tissues. Microbiome diversity profiles were most abundant in the primary tumor compared to the thrombus or normal adjacent tissue. Differential expression of PD-L1 was examined in the tumor thrombus to the normal background tissue and noted three of the six subjects had a threshold above 2-fold. These three similar subjects had foreign microbiota that are typical residents of the oral microbiome. Conclusion. Renal tumors have more diverse microbiomes than normal adjacent tissue. Identification of resident oral microbiome profiles in clear-cell renal cancer with tumor thrombus provides a potential biomarker for thrombus response to PD-L1 inhibition.
The Effects of a Remote-based Weight Loss Program on Adipocytokines, Metabolic Markers, and Telomere Length in Breast Cancer Survivors: the POWER-Remote Trial
Authors: Santa-Maria Cesar A. , Coughlin Janelle W. , Sharma Dipali , Armanios Mary , Blackford Amanda L. , Schreyer Colleen , Dalcin Arlene , Carpenter Ashley , Jerome Gerald J. , Armstrong Deborah K. , Chaudhry Madhu , Cohen Gary I. , Connolly Roisin M. , Fetting John , Miller Robert S. , Smith Karen L. , Snyder Claire , Wolfe Andrew , Wolff Antonio C. , Huang Chiung-Yu , Appel Lawrence J. , Stearns Vered
Published: February 2020

Purpose:

We initiated a clinical trial to determine the proportion of breast cancer survivors achieving ≥5% weight loss using a remotely delivered weight loss intervention (POWER-remote) or a self-directed approach, and to determine the effects of the intervention on biomarkers of cancer risk including metabolism, inflammation, and telomere length.

Experimental Design:

Women with stage 0–III breast cancer, who completed local therapy and chemotherapy, with a body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 were randomized to a 12-month intervention (POWER-remote) versus a self-directed approach. The primary objective was to determine the number of women who achieved at least 5% weight loss at 6 months. We assessed baseline and 6-month change in a panel of adipocytokines (adiponectin, leptin, resistin, HGF, NGF, PAI1, TNFα, MCP1, IL1β, IL6, and IL8), metabolic factors (insulin, glucose, lipids, hs-CRP), and telomere length in peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Results:

From 2013 to 2015, 96 women were enrolled, and 87 were evaluable for the primary analysis; 45 to POWER-remote and 42 to self-directed. At 6 months, 51% of women randomized to POWER-remote lost ≥5% of their baseline body weight, compared with 12% in the self-directed arm [OR, 7.9; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.6–23.9; P = 0.0003]; proportion were similar at 12 months (51% vs 17%, respectively, P = 0.003). Weight loss correlated with significant decreases in leptin, and favorable modulation of inflammatory cytokines and lipid profiles. There was no significant change in telomere length at 6 months.

Conclusions:

A remotely delivered weight loss intervention resulted in significant weight loss in breast cancer survivors, and favorable effects on several biomarkers.
Macrocephaly Secondary to Superior Vena Cava Syndrome
Authors: Entezami Pouya , Custozzo Amanda , Adamo Matthew
Published: February 2020

Cardiac defects in neonates are often associated with neurological or neuroanatomical anomalies. We present a patient who developed macrocephaly secondary to superior vena cava syndrome, resultant from repair of her congenital tetralogy of Fallot. She was managed conservatively with serial imaging and close observation from the neurosurgical aspect, and her head growth stabilized without requiring ventriculoperitoneal shunting after stent placement in her superior vena cava. In patients with macrocephaly secondary to cardiac issues, cerebrospinal fluid diversion is often performed quickly. For our patient – who had no obvious signs of worsening intracranial hypertension or symptoms beyond macrocephaly – treatment of her overall cardiovascular issues was successful in achieving stability of her head circumference growth.
Coupled Plasma Filtration Adsorption for Treatment of Capillary Leak Syndrome Superimposed to Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustolosis: A Case Report
Authors: Di Maso Vittorio , Cozzi Martina , Gerini Ugo , Bedina Elisa , Olivo Elisa , Bianco Francesco , Signoretto Diego , Berlot Giorgio , Boscutti Giuliano
Published: February 2020

Coupled plasma filtration adsorption (CPFA) is an extracorporeal supportive therapy based on nonspecific adsorption of pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators combined with continuous renal replacement therapy. The main field of CPFA application is septic shock, and there are limited data about its efficacy in the treatment of other acute conditions characterized by a dysregulation in immune homeostasis. Capillary leak syndrome (CLS) defines a life-threatening condition sustained by hypercytokinemia and characterized by abrupt onset of increased capillary permeability leading to severe generalized edema and hypovolemic shock refractory to fluid administration. Therapy for CLS is not specific and, at present time, it consists in the use of steroids or intravenous immunoglobulins. We present the case of a 34-year-old woman who developed CLS superimposed to acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis after initiating therapy with hydroxychloroquine for undifferentiated connective tissue disease. CLS did not respond to steroids and intravenous immunoglobulins, while it was successfully treated with CPFA. This observation supports the possible role of CPFA in restoring a proper immunologic homeostasis not only in sepsis but also in other devastating conditions sustained by hypercytokinemia.