bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peer reviewed evaluation of registered end-points of randomised trials (the PRE-REPORT study): protocol for a stepped-wedge, cluster-randomised trial
Authors: Jones Christopher W , Adams Amanda , Weaver Mark A , Schroter Sara , Misemer Benjamin S , Schriger David , Platts-Mills Timothy F
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Clinical trials are critical to the advancement of medical knowledge. However, the reliability of trial conclusions depends in part on consistency between pre-planned and reported study outcomes. Unfortunately, selective outcome reporting, in which outcomes reported in published manuscripts differ from pre-specified study outcomes, is common. Trial registries such as ClinicalTrials.gov have the potential to help identify and stop selective outcome reporting during peer review by allowing peer reviewers to compare outcomes between registry entries and submitted manuscripts. However, the persistently high rate of selective outcome reporting among published clinical trials indicates that the current peer review process at most journals does not effectively address the problem of selective outcome reporting.

Methods and analysis

PRE-REPORT is a stepped-wedge cluster-randomised trial that will test whether providing peer reviewers with a summary of registered, pre-specified primary trial outcomes decreases inconsistencies between prospectively registered and published primary outcomes. Peer reviewed manuscripts describing clinical trial results will be included. Eligible manuscripts submitted to each participating journal during the study period will comprise each cluster. After an initial control phase, journals will transition to the intervention phase in random order, after which peer reviewers will be emailed registry information consisting of the date of registration and any prospectively defined primary outcomes. Blinded outcome assessors will compare registered and published primary outcomes for all included trials. The primary PRE-REPORT outcome is the presence of a published primary outcome that is consistent with a prospectively defined primary outcome in the study’s trial registry. The primary outcome will be analysed using a mixed effect logistical regression model to compare results between the intervention and control phases.

Ethics and dissemination

The Cooper Health System Institutional Review Board determined that this study does not meet criteria for human subject research. Findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN41225307; Pre-results.
Precision pulse capsulotomy: an automated alternative to manual capsulorhexis in paediatric cataract
Authors: Chougule Pratik , Warkad Vivekanand , Badakere Akshay , Kekunnaya Ramesh
Published: June 2019

Objective

To report our operative experience with precision pulse capsulotomy (PPC) for anterior capsulotomy in a paediatric cataract series.

Methods and analysis

This study is a retrospective interventional, descriptive series of consecutive paediatric eyes (≤16 years) undergoing cataract surgery using PPC. Surgical time and the time required to perform PPC was recorded. Any intraoperative and postoperative adverse events were noted. Postoperatively, visual acuity, anterior segment examination and intraocular pressure (IOP) were recorded for all children at day 1, 1 week and 1 month.

Results

21 eyes of 14 patients were included in the study, with the median age at surgery of 6.0 years (IQR; 5-7.75, range=1–16 years). Male to female ratio was 11:3. 13 eyes had lamellar cataract, 3 eyes had total cataract, 2 had posterior subcapsular cataract, 2 had traumatic cataract, while 1 eye had sutural cataract. Median surgical time was 26 min (IQR 21-32) and median PPC time was 75.0 secs (IQR 56-86.5). The anterior capsulotomy was round and complete in most cases, except in one case due to faulty suction. All patients underwent a successful in the bag implantation of intraocular lens with capsulotomy margins overlapping the optic edges in 19 eyes (90%). Median PPC size was 5.54 mm (n=9, IQR 5.39 -5.75) which was slightly larger than expected. None of the cases had any intraoperative or postoperative adverse events with no radial tears of capsulotomy. Postoperatively, the mean final follow-up was 5.71+3.20 weeks.

Conclusion

To conclude PPC can be used as an alternative to manual continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis in paediatric cataract surgery producing round well- centred and strong capsulotomy with an easier learning curve.
Ves-Matic CUBE 200: is modified Westergren method for erythrocyte sedimentation rate a valid alternative to the gold standard?
Authors: Lapić Ivana , Piva Elisa , Spolaore Federica , Musso Giulia , Tosato Francesca , Pelloso Michela , Plebani Mario
Published: June 2019

Ves-Matic CUBE 200 is an automated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) analyser based on the modified Westergren principle of measurement. In this study, we aimed to assess its analytical performance following the key points addressed by the International Council for Standardization in Haematology and the comparability with the gold standard Westergren method. Comparison of the two methods yielded a correlation coefficient of 0.852, no significant bias and a small constant difference between compared results. Intrarun coefficients of variation (CV) ranged from 2.2% to 22.2%, the higher being for lower ESR values, while inter-run CVs were 19.7% for the normal range and 3.0% for the abnormal range. This study proved the analytical validity of the Ves-Matic CUBE 200 and its high comparability with the Westergren method, showing obvious improvements in the technology applied for automated determination of ESR and a valuable step forward in standardisation of ESR methods.
Influence of Treadmill Speed and Perturbation Intensity on Selection of Balancing Strategies during Slow Walking Perturbed in the Frontal Plane
Authors: Matjačić Zlatko , Zadravec Matjaž , Olenšek Andrej
Published: June 2019

Background. Common understanding is that adequate foot placement (stepping strategy) is crucial in maintaining stability during walking at normal speed. The aim of this study was to investigate strategies that humans use to cope with lateral perturbations during very slow walking. Methods. Ten healthy individuals underwent an experimental protocol whereby a set of perturbations directed inward (medially to a stance leg) and outward (laterally to a stance leg) of three intensities (F1=5%, F2=10%, and F3=15% of body weight), applied at three instances of a stance phase, were delivered in random order to the pelvis using a balance assessment robot while walking on a treadmill at three walking speeds (S1=0.4, S2=0.6, and S3=0.8 m/s). We analyzed the peak center of mass displacements; step length, step width, and step times; and the lateral component of ground reaction force for perturbations that were delivered at the beginning of the gait cycle. Results. Responses after inward perturbations were similar at all tested speeds and consistently employed stepping strategy that was further facilitated by a shortened stance. Wider and shorter steps were applied with increased perturbation intensity. Responses following outward perturbations were more complex. At S1, hip strategy (impulse-like increase of mediolateral ground reaction force) augmented with ankle strategy (mediolateral shift of the center of pressure) mainly contributed to responses already during the stance phase. The stance duration was significantly longer for all perturbation intensities. At S2, the relative share of hip strategy was reduced while with increased perturbation intensity, stepping strategy was gradually added. The stance duration was significantly longer for F1 and F2. At S3, stepping strategy was mainly used while the duration of stance was similar to the one in unperturbed walking. Responses following both inward and outward perturbations at all speeds were characterized by temporary slowing down movement in a sagittal plane that was more pronounced with increased perturbation intensity. Conclusions. This study provides novel insights into balancing strategies used at slower walking speeds which may be more relevant to understand the challenges of gait stability following perturbations in the frontal plane in clinical populations.
The Road to a Downstream Emissions Trading System: Designing a Scheme Combining Motorist and Government Participation
Authors: Al-Guthmy Fahd Mohamed Omar , Yan Wanglin
Published: June 2019

As downstream road transport has not been fully integrated into any emissions trading scheme, this paper proposes and evaluates the possibility of one by addressing the main barriers hindering its development. Based on this, a scheme which separates the “Cap” and “Trade” participation to motorists and local governments, respectively, is presented through a systematic review. We investigate how the scheme addresses the problems of cost, administrative burden, and fuel allowance allocation as they are all key factors that need equal consideration. We also justify the model’s unique structure and characteristics against the world’s largest scheme, the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), to ensure they cater to the three aforementioned issues barring its viability. It is concluded that, by amending specific policy attributes of a road-based emissions trading scheme significantly, it could be more practical both economically and administratively. Also, leveraging on existing institutional arrangements would allow for an economically feasible environment for the administration and management of such a scheme.
GAS1Deficient Enhances UPR Activity inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Cui Hong-jing , Cui Xin-gang , Jing Xia , Yuan Yuan , Chen Ya-qin , Sun Ya-xin , Zhao Wei , Liu Xin-guang
Published: June 2019

Beta-1,3-glucanosyltransferase (Gas1p) plays important roles in cell wall biosynthesis and morphogenesis and has been implicated in DNA damage responses and cell cycle regulation in fungi. Yeast Gas1p has also been reported to participate in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress responses. However, the precise roles and molecular mechanisms through which Gas1p affects these responses have yet to be elucidated. In this study, we constructedGAS1-deficient (gas1Δ) andGAS1-overexpressing (GAS1 OE) yeast strains and observed that thegas1Δstrain exhibited a decreased proliferation ability and a shorter replicative lifespan (RLS), as well as enhanced activity of the unfolded protein response (UPR) in the absence of stress. However, under the high-tunicamycin-concentration (an ER stress-inducing agent; 1.0 μg/mL) stress, thegas1Δyeast cells exhibited an increased proliferation ability compared with the wild-type yeast strain. In addition, our findings demonstrated thatIRE1andHAC1(two upstream modulators of the UPR) are required for the survival ofgas1Δyeast cells under the tunicamycin stress. On the other hand, we provided evidence that theGAS1overexpression caused an obvious sensitivity to the low-tunicamycin-concentration (0.25 μg/mL). Collectively, our results indicate that Gas1p plays an important role in the ageing and ER stress responses in yeast.
Inverted ILM Flap for the Treatment of Myopic Macular Holes: Healing Processes and Morphological Changes in Comparison with Complete ILM Removal
Authors: Mete Maurizio , Alfano Alessandro , Maggio Emilia , Guerriero Massimo , Pertile Grazia
Published: June 2019

Purpose. To investigate the microstructural changes after successful myopic macular hole (MMH) surgery, comparing inverted ILM flap and complete ILM removal techniques, and their association with visual function. Methods. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) was used to evaluate both external limiting membrane (ELM) and ellipsoid zone (EZ) recovery in 40 eyes of 39 patients who underwent pars plana vitrectomy with either inverted internal limiting membrane flap technique (n=27) or complete ILM removal (n=13) to achieve MH closure. The association between ELM and EZ recovery and visual acuity was also investigated. The patients were followed up at 1 year. Results. ELM and EZ was recovered in 72% and 62% of cases, respectively, regardless of the surgical techniques 1 year after surgery. A strong positive association between the ELM and EZ recovery and the mean BCVA was found: regardless of the surgical technique, this was statistically significant at each time point (p<0.05). None of the baseline variables were found to act as predictive factors for either ELM or EZ. Conclusion. The inverted ILM flap technique did not affect the MMH healing processes compared to complete ILM removal. Thus, the presence of the ILM plug did not interfere with the restoration of both ELM and EZ, which correlated with functional recovery.
Chemoresistance in the Human Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cell Line MDA-MB-231 Induced by Doxorubicin Gradient Is Associated with Epigenetic Alterations in Histone Deacetylase
Authors: Han Jeonghun , Lim Wanyoung , You Daeun , Jeong Yisun , Kim Sangmin , Lee Jeong Eon , Shin Tae Hwan , Lee Gwang , Park Sungsu
Published: June 2019

Chemoresistance is one of the major causes of therapeutic failure in breast cancer patients. In this study, the mechanism of chemoresistance in human triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells (MDA-MB-231) induced by doxorubicin (DOX) gradient was investigated. These DOX-resistant cells showed higher drug efflux rate, increased anchorage-independent growth when cultured in suspension, and increased tumor-forming ability in nude mice, compared to the wild-type MDA-MB-231 cells. RNA sequencing analysis showed an increase in the expression of genes involved in membrane transport, antiapoptosis, and histone regulation. Kaplan-Meier plot analysis of TNBC patients who underwent preoperative chemotherapy showed that the relapse free survival (RFS) of patients with high HIST1H2BK (histone cluster 1 H2B family member k) expression was significantly lower than that of patients with low HIST1H2BK expression. Quantitative real-time PCR confirmed that the level of HIST1H2BK expression was increased in resistant cells. The cytotoxicity analysis showed that the DOX resistance of resistant cells was reduced by treatment with a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor. Our results suggest that, in DOX-resistant cells, HIST1H2BK expression can be rapidly induced by the high expression of genes involved in membrane transport, antiapoptosis, and histone regulation. In conclusion, chemoresistance in MDA-MB-231 cells can occur in a relatively short period by DOX gradient via this previously known mechanism of resistance, and DOX resistance is dependent on the specificity of resistant cells to HDAC.
Serum Concentrations of Osteogenesis/Osteolysis-Related Factors and Micro-RNA Expression in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Jadczyk Tomasz , Francuz Tomasz , Garczorz Wojciech , Kimsa-Furdzik Malgorzata , Dutka Mieczyslaw , Gaik Ewa , Gruszczynska Katarzyna , Syzdol Marcin , Wanha Wojciech , Kurzelowski Radoslaw , Fluder Joanna , Starek Zdenek , Wojakowski Wojciech
Published: June 2019

Background. Atherosclerosis and bone metabolism share similar molecular and cellular mechanisms. This study aims to evaluate (1) serum concentration of osteogenesis/osteolysis factors panel (Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK-1), TNF-α, N-terminal atrial natriuretic peptide (NT-proANP), thrombospondin-2 (TSP-2), osteoprotegerin (OPG), osteocalcin (OCN), osteopontin (OPN), fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23), soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (sRANKL), tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9)), (2) serum expression levels of micro-RNA- (miR-) 24-1 and miR-6802, and (3) assess their correlation with myocardial injury and LV remodeling and function in the acute phase of STEMI and after 3 months. Methods. Study enrolled 25 STEMI patients (mean age 55.4 ± 8.96 years). Blood samples were collected 4 days and 3 months after myocardial infarction. Serum concentrations of osteogenesis/osteolysis factors were measured using the Luminex assay. Analysis of miR-24-1, and miR-6802 expression was performed with qPCR. LV function and remodeling were assessed by MRI during index hospitalization and 3 months later. Results. There were no significant differences in serum levels of osteogenesis/osteolysis factors and expression of miR-24-1 and miR-6802 between the acute phase and 3-month follow-up. The levels were similar in patients with at least ≥5% improvement of LVEF (n = 10) and those without improvement. There was a negative correlation between the OPG serum level and LVEF during the acute phase of myocardial infarction. Conclusions. In STEMI patients, serum concentrations of osteogenesis/osteolysis factors, as well as miR-24-1 and miR-6802 expression, do not change significantly within the 3-month follow-up and are not correlated with LV remodeling and function.
Angiofibroma of the Vagina Presenting with Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: A Case Report from Ethiopia and Review of the Literature
Authors: Arega Chuchu , Girma Wubshet , Sanchez Diaz Jose Manuel
Published: June 2019

Background. Angiofibroma is an uncommon type of vascular benign tumor that is made up of blood vessels and fibrous (connective) tissue. First described in 1997, it usually occurs in middle aged females and is clinically often thought to represent a cyst. Unlike most of the other site specific vulvovaginal mesenchymal lesions, cellular angiofibroma has a marked predilection for the vulva with only occasional examples reported in the vagina. Case Detail. A 17-year adolescent nulligravid girl presented with a history of irregular vaginal bleeding of two-year duration and history of lower abdominal swelling; on examination, she had pale conjunctiva, 20-week sized firm, irregular, nontender abdominopelvic mass, and a firm huge anterior vaginal wall mass, with difficulty to reach at the cervix and hemoglobin of 9.7 gm/dL, and a diagnosis of cervical myoma plus anemia was made, which was supported by imaging studies. Finally it was found to be angiofibroma of the vagina. Conclusion. Angiofibromas are benign tumors, which rarely occur in vagina. Although middle aged females are affected more, angiofibromas can affect females of reproductive age group and can cause abnormal uterine bleeding.
Analysis of Performance Degradation Introduced by Radome for High-Precision GNSS Antenna
Authors: Liu Jinyuan , Li Lixun , Zuo Yong , Chen Huaming , Ni Shaojie
Published: June 2019

High-precision global navigation satellite system (GNSS) antennas employed on the fixed ground station are usually equipped with radomes, which are potential in yielding degradation of key parameters of antenna such as axial ratio and gain. This paper presents a study on the deterioration of high-precision GNSS antenna caused by the radome using electrically EM simulations including comparison of different geometries, materials, and heights of radome. Based on the study, an optimized radome model is proposed to minimize the axial ratio and gain degradation of antenna. Finally, a prototype of proposed radome is fabricated and measured. A good agreement between simulated and measured results evidently illustrates that the geometry, material, and height of radome are set appropriately.
Circulating Levels of miR-574-5p Are Associated with Neurological Outcome after Cardiac Arrest in Women: A Target Temperature Management (TTM) Trial Substudy
Authors: Boileau Adeline , Somoza Antonio Salgado , Dankiewicz Josef , Stammet Pascal , Gilje Patrik , Erlinge David , Hassager Christian , Wise Matthew P. , Kuiper Michael , Friberg Hans , Nielsen Niklas , Devaux Yvan ,   TTM-Trial Investigators on behalf of Cardiolinc Network
Published: June 2019

Purpose. Postresuscitation neuroprognostication is guided by neurophysiological tests, biomarker measurement, and clinical examination. Recent investigations suggest that circulating microRNAs (miRNA) may help in outcome prediction after cardiac arrest. We assessed the ability of miR-574-5p to predict neurological outcome after cardiac arrest, in a sex-specific manner. Methods. In this substudy of the Target Temperature Management (TTM) Trial, we enrolled 590 cardiac arrest patients for which blood samples were available. Expression levels of miR-574-5p were measured by quantitative PCR in plasma samples collected 48 h after cardiac arrest. The endpoint of the study was poor neurological outcome at 6 months (cerebral performance category scores 3 to 5). Results. Eighty-one percent of patients were men, and 49% had a poor neurological outcome. Circulating levels of miR-574-5p at 48 h were higher in patients with a poor neurological outcome at 6 months (p<0.001), both in women and in men. Circulating levels of miR-574-5p were univariate predictors of neurological outcome (odds ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 1.5 [1.26-1.78]). After adjustment with clinical variables and NSE, circulating levels of miR-574-5p predicted neurological outcome in women (OR [95% CI]: 1.9 [1.09-3.45]), but not in men (OR [95% CI]: 1.0 [0.74-1.28]). Conclusion. miR-574-5p is associated with neurological outcome after cardiac arrest in women.
PPARG2 Pro12Ala and TNFα -308G>A Polymorphisms Are Not Associated with Heart Failure Development in Patients with Ischemic Heart Disease after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Wojtkowska Izabela , Bonda Tomasz A. , Tysarowski Andrzej , Seliga Katarzyna , Siedlecki Janusz A. , Winnicka Maria M. , Stępińska Janina
Published: June 2019

TNFα and PPARγ are important modulators of metabolism, inflammation, and atherosclerosis. Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of heart failure (HF). The aim of the study was to assess whether polymorphisms of the TNFα (-308G>A) and PPARG2 (Pro12Ala) genes are associated with the risk of developing HF by patients with ischemic heart disease. Methods. 122 patients without HF (aged 63 ± 8.8 years, 85% males) with confirmed coronary artery disease qualified for coronary bypass grafting were enrolled in the study. After the procedure, they were screened for cardiac parameters. Those with elevated NT-proBNP or diminished left ventricular ejection fraction during follow-up were assigned to the HF group (n=78), and the remaining ones to the non-HF group (n=44). The TNFα -308G>A and PPARG2 Pro12Ala polymorphisms were detected using the TaqMan method. Results. The distributions of TNFα -308G>A and PPARG2 Pro12Ala did not differ between the HF and non-HF groups (-308G>A: 16% vs. 11.4% of alleles; Pro12Ala: 23.9% vs. 20.5% of alleles, respectively). IL-6 concentration in the plasma of TNFα A-allele carriers at months 1 and 12 after CABG was higher in the HF group compared to the non-HF group (1 month after CABG: 5.3 ± 3.4 vs. 3.1 ± 2.9, p<0.05; 12 months after CABG: 4.2 ± 3,9 vs. 1.4 ± 1.2, p<0.01, respectively). Both polymorphisms were not related to changes in the plasma TNFα concentration or other parameters related to HF. Conclusions. Our study did not reveal any correlation between the PPARG2 Pro12Ala and TNFα -308G>A polymorphisms and development of HF in patients with ischemic heart disease after coronary bypass grafting.
Minimal Wave Speed in a Delayed Lattice Dynamical System with Competitive Nonlinearity
Authors: Wu Fuzhen
Published: June 2019

This paper deals with the minimal wave speed of delayed lattice dynamical systems without monotonicity in the sense of standard partial ordering in R2. By constructing upper and lower solutions appealing to the exponential ordering, we prove the existence of traveling wave solutions if the wave speed is not smaller than some threshold. The nonexistence of traveling wave solutions is obtained when the wave speed is smaller than the threshold. Therefore, we confirm the threshold is the minimal wave speed, which completes the known results.
Comparison on Rare Gas Geochemical Characteristics and Gas Originations of Kuche and Southwestern Depressions in Tarim Basin, China
Authors: Wang Xiaobo , Zou Caineng , Li Jian , Wei Guoqi , Chen Jianfa , Xie Zengye , Li Zhisheng , Guo Jianying , Lin Shiguo , Pan Songqi , Hao Aisheng , Yang Chunlong , Qi Xuening
Published: June 2019

The Kuche Depression is considered as the most important gas resource potential and gas exploring area with great gas resource potential and prospect in the Tarim Basin. Based on geochemical experimental analyses and comprehensive geological studies, the general geochemical characteristics of molecular and isotope compositions of rare gases as well as hydrocarbon gases and nonhydrocarbon gases are comparatively studied in the Kuche and Southwestern Depressions. Then, their genetic types are separately identified and gas originations are comprehensively discussed. The main results are as follows. (1) Gas fields in the Kuche Depression have a higher methane abundance, accompanied with low N2and CO2abundances, but the Akemomu gas field in the Southwestern Depression has a relatively lower average methane abundance, accompanied with high average N2and CO2abundances. The helium abundance of natural gases in gas fields from the Kuche Depression general has 1 order of magnitude higher than the air value. Comparatively, it has more than 2 orders of magnitude higher than the atmospheric value in the Akemomu gas field from the Southwestern Depression. The neon, argon, krypton, and xenon abundances in both Kuche and Southwestern Depressions are lower than the corresponding air values. (2) Natural gases from gas fields in the Kuche Depression and the Southwestern Depressions are generally typical coal-formed gases. The rare gases in the Kuche Depression have typical crustal genesis, mainly deriving from the radioactive decay of elements in the crust, while in the Akemomu gas field from the Southwestern Depression, the rare gases have main crustal genesis with a proportion of 92.5%, probably accompanied with a little mantled genetic contribution. (3) Natural gases in the Kuche Depression are generally derived from coal measure source rocks of Jurassic and Triassic, which principally originated from Jurassic in strata period and coals in source rock types. The Jurassic source rocks account for 55%-75% and the Triassic source rocks account for 25%-45% approximately, while coals occupy 68% and mudstones occupy 32% separately. Natural gases from the Akemomu gas field in the Southwestern Depression mainly originated from humic mudstones of marine and continental transitional source rocks of Carboniferous to Permian.
A Review of the Science of Colorful, Plant-Based Food and Practical Strategies for “Eating the Rainbow”
Authors: Minich Deanna M.
Published: June 2019

Over the past decades, thousands of published studies have amassed supporting recommendations to consume fruits and vegetables for physiological and psychological health. Newer research has emerged to suggest that these plant-based foods contain a plethora of not only vitamins and minerals, but perhaps, most importantly, phytonutrients. These phytonutrients have known pleiotropic effects on cellular structure and function, ultimately resulting in the modulation of protein kinases and subsequent epigenetic modification in a manner that leads to improved outcomes. Even though eating fruits and vegetables is a well-known feature of a healthy dietary pattern, population intakes continue to be below federal recommendations. To encourage consumers to include fruits and vegetables into their diet, an “eat by color” approach is proposed in this review. Although each individual food may have numerous effects based on its constituents, the goal of this simplified approach was to identify general patterns of benefits based on the preponderance of scientific data and known mechanisms of food-based constituents. It is suggested that such a consumer-oriented categorization of these plant-based foods may lead to greater recognition of their importance in the daily diet throughout the lifespan. Other adjunctive strategies to heighten awareness of fruits and vegetables are discussed.
Challenges for Novice Developers in Rough Terrain Rescue Robots: A Survey on Motion Control Systems
Authors: Pillai Branesh M. , Suthakorn Jackrit
Published: June 2019

Several researchers have revealed the huge potentials of rescue robots in disaster zones. In addition to searching for victims, these intelligent machines are also effective in obtaining useful information from the zones. These functions help to optimize the search and rescue missions. However, the fact that rescue robots have to operate in risky and dangerous environments necessitates the need for such machines to have an efficient motion control system, which can help them to operate autonomously or with minimal human control. This paper reviews the use of reliable controllers in enhancing the sensing capabilities of rescue robots. Huge potential of sensorless sensing method in the rescue robots are highlighted. It is shown that the use of sensorless sensing method enables developer to create simple and cheaper robots for various complex situations. Thus, it is imperative to conduct further studies on how to optimize the operations of robots that lack sensors.
Upregulation of miR-34a by Inhibition of IRE1α Has Protective Effect against Aβ-Induced Injury in SH-SY5Y Cells by Targeting Caspase-2
Authors: Li Qianqian , Liu Tingjiao , Yang Shanshan , Zhang Zhongling
Published: June 2019

Background. Neurotoxicity induced by the amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide is one of the most important pathological mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Based on accumulating evidence in AD research, both endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress) and alterations in the microRNA (miRNA) network contribute to the pathogenesis of the disease, making them potential therapeutic targets for AD. The present study was performed to investigate whether miR-34a and the inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1) are involved in the regulation of Aβ-induced cytotoxicity. Methods. Human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells were treated with Aβ1-40. Cell viability was assessed by the MTT assay. The integrity of the plasma membrane was assessed by LDH release. The expression levels of XBP1s, IRE1α, p-IRE1α, and Caspase-2 were detected by Western blot analysis. Spliced-XBP1 mRNA and miR-34a were detected by reverse transcription- (RT-) PCR and quantitative real-time PCR, respectively. Caspase-2 activity was measured using the Caspase-2 cellular activity assay kit. The IRE1 inhibitor (STF-083010) was used to determine the role of IRE1α on miR-34a expression. SH-SY5Y cells were transfected with miR-34a mimics to assess the role of miR-34a on the activation of Caspase-2 and the viability of Aβ-exposed SH-SY5Y cells. Results. We showed that Aβ caused concentration- and duration-dependent death of SH-SY5Y cells. The expression levels of XBP1s, p-IRE1α, and Caspase-2 were increased, along with a corresponding decrease in the miR-34a levels in Aβ-exposed SH-SY5Y cells. The IRE1 inhibitor (STF-083010) upregulated the expression of miR-34a and suppressed the activation of Caspase-2, effectively alleviating the Aβ-induced death of SH-SY5Y cells. Transfection studies show that miR-34a mimics inhibit the expression of Caspase-2 and restore the viability of Aβ-exposed SH-SY5Y cells. Conclusion. Aβ peptide induced downregulation of miR-34a through the activation of IRE1α, which may induce cytotoxicity by targeting Caspase-2. Upregulation of miR-34a by inhibition of IRE1α has protective effects against Aβ-induced injury in SH-SY5Y cells.
Fixed Point Theorems for New Type Contractive Mappings
Authors: Sezen Müzeyyen Sangurlu
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we introduce some new concepts of contractions calledγ-contractions andγ-weak contractions. We prove some fixed point theorems for mappings providingγ-contractions andγ-weak contractions unlike known results in the literature. Also, we present a few examples to illustrate the validity of the results obtained in the paper.
Effect of Polymerization Time and Home Bleaching Agent on the Microhardness and Surface Roughness of Bulk-Fill Composites: A Scanning Electron Microscopy Study
Authors: Özduman Zümrüt Ceren , Kazak Magrur , Fildisi Mehmet Ali , Özlen Rümeysa Hatice , Dalkilic Evrim , Donmez Nazmiye
Published: June 2019

Objective. The aim of this study is to evaluate the microhardness and surface roughness of two different bulk-fill composites polymerized with light-curing unit (LCU) with different polymerization times before and after the application of a home bleaching agent.Materials-Methods. For both microhardness and surface roughness tests, 6 groups were prepared with bulk-fill materials (SonicFill, Filtek Bulk Fill) according to different polymerization times (10, 20, and 30 s). 102 specimens were prepared using Teflon molds (4 mm depth and 5 mm diameter) and polymerized with LCU. 30 specimens (n=5) were assessed for microhardness. Before home bleaching agent application, the bottom/top (B/T) microhardness ratio was evaluated. After bleaching agent application, the microhardness measurements were performed on top surfaces. Roughness measurements were performed in 72 specimens (n=12) before and after bleaching application. Additionally, for SEM analyses, two specimens from all tested groups were prepared before and after bleaching agent application. The data B/T microhardness ratio before bleaching was analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD test. The data from the top surface of specimens’ microhardness before and after bleaching were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-WhitneyUtests. The data from surface roughness tests were statistically analyzed by multivariate analysis of variance and Bonferroni test (p<0.05).Results. The B/T microhardness ratio results revealed no significant differences between groups (p>0.05). Comparing the microhardness values of the composites’ top surfaces before and after bleaching, a significant decrease was observed exclusively in FB30s (p<0.05). No significant differences in surface roughness values were observed when the groups were compared based on bulk-fill materials (p>0.05) while the polymerization time affected the surface roughness of the SF20s and SF30s groups (p<0.05). After bleaching, surface roughness values were significantly increased in the SF20s and SF30s groups (p<0.05).Conclusion. The clinicians should adhere to the polymerization time recommended by the manufacturer to ensure the durability of the composite material in the oral environment.
Mitochondria-Targeted Peptide SS31 Attenuates Renal Tubulointerstitial Injury via Inhibiting Mitochondrial Fission in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Yang Shi-kun , Li Ai-mei , Han Ya-chun , Peng Can-hui , Song Na , Yang Ming , Zhan Ming , Zeng Ling-feng , Song Pan-ai , Zhang Wei , Tang Shi-qi , Zhang Hao
Published: June 2019

Objective. Renal tubular injury is an early characteristic of diabetic nephropathy (DN) that is related to mitochondrial dysfunction. In this study, we explore the effects and mechanisms of mitochondria-targeted peptide SS31 on renal tubulointerstitial injury in DN. Method. 40 C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into control group, STZ group, STZ+SS31 group, and STZ+normal saline group. SS31 was intraperitoneally injected to the mice every other day for 24 weeks. Renal lesions and the expression of Drp1, Mfn1, Bcl-2, Bax, Caspase1, IL-1β, and FN were detected. In in vitro studies, HK-2 cells were incubated with different concentrations of D-glucose (5, 30 mM) or combined with SS31 and Drp1 inhibitor Midivi1. Mitochondrial ROS, membrane potential, and morphology have been detected to evaluate the mitochondrial function. Results. Compared with diabetic mice, the levels of serum creatinine and microalbuminuria were significantly decreased in the SS31 group. Renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis, oxidative stress, and apoptosis were observed in diabetic mice, while the pathological changes were reduced in the SS31-treatment group. SS31 could decrease the expression of Drp1, Bax, Caspase1, IL-1β, and FN in the renal tissue of diabetic mice, while increasing the expression of Mfn1. Additionally, mitochondria exhibit focal enlargement and crista swelling in renal tubular cells of diabetic mice, while SS31 treatment could partially block these changes. An in vitro study showed that pretreatment with SS31 or Drp1 inhibitor Mdivi1 could restore the level of mitochondrial ROS, the membrane potential levels, and the expressions of Drp1, Bax, Caspase1, IL-1β, and FN in HK-2 cells under high-glucose conditions. Conclusion. SS31 protected renal tubulointerstitial injury in diabetic mice through a decrease in mitochondrial fragmentation via suppressing the expression of Drp1 and increasing the expression of Mfn1.
Dynamic Modification and Damage Propagation of a Two‐Storey Full‐Scale Masonry Building
Authors: Kouris Leonidas Alexandros S. , Penna Andrea , Magenes Guido
Published: June 2019

The progressive change of modal characteristics due to accumulated damage on an unreinforced masonry (URM) building is investigated. The stone URM building, submitted to five consecutive shakings, has been experimentally studied on the shaking table of EUCENTRE laboratory (Pavia, Italy). The dynamic characteristics of the test specimen are analytically estimated using frequency and state‐space modal identification from ambient vibration stationary tests carried out before the strong motion transient tests at various levels of damage. A singular value (SV) decomposition of the cross‐correlation matrix of the acceleration response in the frequency domain is applied to determine the modal characteristics. In the time domain, the subspace state‐space system identification is performed. Modal characteristics evolve from the initial linear state up to the ultimate collapse state in correlation with accumulated damage. Modal frequencies shorten with increasing intensity, whereas modal damping ratios are enhanced. Modal shapes also change with increasing level of accumulated damage. Comparing the evolution of modal characteristics, it is concluded that modal damping ratio shift can be better correlated with the system’s actual performance giving a better representation of damage than that of natural frequency shift ratio or the modes difference.
Extracting Filaments Based on Morphology Components Analysis from Radio Astronomical Images
Authors: Zhu M. , Liu W. , Wang B. Y. , Zhang M. F. , Tian W. W. , Yu X. C. , Liang T. H. , Wu D. , Hu D. , Duan F. Q.
Published: June 2019

Filaments are a type of wide-existing astronomical structure. It is a challenge to separate filaments from radio astronomical images, because their radiation is usually weak. What is more, filaments often mix with bright objects, e.g., stars, which makes it difficult to separate them. In order to extract filaments, A. Men’shchikov proposed a method “getfilaments” to find filaments automatically. However, the algorithm removed tiny structures by counting connected pixels number simply. Removing tiny structures based on local information might remove some part of the filaments because filaments in radio astronomical image are usually weak. In order to solve this problem, we applied morphology components analysis (MCA) to process each singe spatial scale image and proposed a filaments extraction algorithm based on MCA. MCA uses a dictionary whose elements can be wavelet translation function, curvelet translation function, or ridgelet translation function to decompose images. Different selection of elements in the dictionary can get different morphology components of the spatial scale image. By using MCA, we can get line structure, gauss sources, and other structures in spatial scale images and exclude the components that are not related to filaments. Experimental results showed that our proposed method based on MCA is effective in extracting filaments from real radio astronomical images, and images processed by our method have higher peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR).
The Role of Initial Soil Conditions in Shallow Landslide Triggering: Insights from Physically Based Approaches
Authors: Schilirò L. , Poueme Djueyep G. , Esposito C. , Scarascia Mugnozza G.
Published: June 2019

In the last years, the shallow landslide phenomenon has increasingly been investigated through physically based models, which try to extend over large-area simplified slope stability analyses using physical and mechanical parameters of the involved material. However, the parameterization of such models is usually challenging even at the slope scale, due to the numerous parameters involved in the failure mechanism. In particular, considering the scale of the phenomenon, the role of transient hydrology is essential. For this reason, in this work we present the outcome of different experimental tests conducted on a soil slope model with a sloping flume. The tested material was sampled on Monte Mario Hill (Rome, Central Italy), an area which has been frequently affected by rainfall-induced landslide events in the past. In this respect, we also performed a physically based numerical analysis at the field conditions, in order to evaluate the response of the terrain to a recent extreme rainfall event. The results of the flume tests show that, for the same material, two different triggering mechanisms (i.e., uprise of a temporary water table and advance of the wetting front) occur by varying the initial water content only. At the same time, the results of the numerical simulations indicate that clayey sand and lean clay are the soil types mostly influenced by the abovementioned rainfall event, since the initial moisture conditions enhance the formation of a wide wetting front within the soil profile.
Antibacterial Potency of Honey
Authors: Albaridi Najla A.
Published: June 2019

Despite the developments in controlling infectious disease around the world, they are still the second biggest cause of morbidity and mortality due in part to the increase in drug resistance among large numbers of the bacterial strains. This means that new strategies are needed to prevent and treat infectious disease. As a result, several ancient methods have been re-evaluated and the substances/procedures employed historically to cure diseases are now attracting renewed scientific attention. Honey is one such product that used to be widely used to combat bacteria. This review covers the antibacterial activity of honey, its use in the treatment of infection and diseases, and the features that are relevant to its activity.
A Novel Metal-Organic Framework Composite, MIL-101(Cr)@MIP, as an Efficient Sorbent in Solid-Phase Extraction Coupling with HPLC for Tribenuron-Methyl Determination
Authors: Zheng Xinyuan , Wang Junping
Published: June 2019

A highly efficient and selective method based on core–shell molecularly imprinted polymers (MIL@MIP) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was developed and firstly used for the trace analysis of tribenuron-methyl (TBM) in complicated matrices. The MIL@MIP was prepared by surface molecular-imprinting technique, specially using MIL-101 as core, TBM as template molecule, methacrylic acid (MAA) as functional monomer, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as cross-linker, and azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as initiator. The resulting MIL@MIP showed high affinity, recognition specificity, fast mass transfer rate, and efficient adsorption performance towards TBM with the adsorption capacity reaching up to 3.217 mg/g. It also showed high cross-selectivity for TBM among its six kinds of chemical structure analogues. Furthermore, using the MIL@MIP as solid-phase extraction (SPE) materials, the recoveries of TBM determined by HPLC were 84.6-92.3%, 93.3-106.7%, and 88.9-93.3% in the spiked river water, soil, and soybean samples, respectively, with the limit of detection of 0.3 ng/L, 1.5 ng/kg, and 1.5 ng/kg, accordingly. It was proved that the developed HPLC-MISPE method was fast, accurate, and sensitive for detecting the trace TBM in river water, soil, and soybean samples.
Evaluation of Anti-HIV-1 Integrase and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Compounds from Betula alnoides Buch-Ham
Authors: Chaniad Prapaporn , Sudsai Teeratad , Septama Abdi Wira , Chukaew Arnon , Tewtrakul Supinya
Published: June 2019

Betula alnoides is a medicinal plant in Thai traditional longevity preparations. The crude extracts of this plant possess various biological activities. However, the isolated compounds from this plant have no reports of anti-HIV-1 integrase (IN) activity. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the anti-HIV-1 integrase and anti-inflammatory effects of isolated compounds from this plant and predict the interaction of compounds with integrase active sites. From the bioassay-guided fractionation of the ethanol extract of B. alnoides stems using chromatographic techniques, five pentacyclic triterpenoid compounds were obtained. They are betulinic acid (1), betulin (2), lupeol (3), oleanolic acid (4), and ursolic acid (5). Compound 2 exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity against HIV-1 IN, with an IC50 value of 17.7 μM. Potential interactions of compounds with IN active sites were investigated using computational docking. The results indicated that active compounds interacted with Asp64, a residue participating in 3′-processing, and Thr66, His67, and Lys159, residues participating in strand-transfer reactions of the integration process. Regarding anti-inflammatory activity, all compounds exerted significant inhibitory effects on LPS-induced nitric oxide production (IC50 < 68.7 μM). Thus, this research provides additional scientific support for the use of B. alnoides in traditional medicine for the treatment of HIV patients.
Investigating Sterile Neutrino Flux in the Solar Neutrino Data
Authors: Ankush  , Verma Rishu , Sharma Gazal , Chauhan B. C.
Published: June 2019

There are compelling evidences for the existence of a fourth degree of freedom of neutrinos, i.e., sterile neutrino. In the recent studies the role of sterile component of neutrinos has been found to be crucial, not only in particle physics, but also in astrophysics and cosmology. This has been proposed to be one of the potential candidates of dark matter. In this work we investigate the updated solar neutrino data available from all the relevant experiments including Borexino and KamLAND solar phase in a model independent way and obtain bounds on the sterile neutrino component present in the solar neutrino flux. The mystery of the missing neutrinos is further deepening as subsequent experiments are coming up with their results. The energy spectrum of solar neutrinos, as predicted by Standard Solar Models (SSM), is seen by neutrino experiments at different parts as they are sensitive to various neutrino energy ranges. It is interesting to note that more than 98% of the calculated standard model solar neutrino flux lies below 1 MeV. Therefore, the study of low energy neutrinos can give us better understanding and the possibility of knowing about the presence of antineutrino and sterile neutrino components in solar neutrino flux. As such, this work becomes interesting as we include the data from medium energy (~1 MeV) experiments, i.e., Borexino and KamLAND solar phase. In our study we retrieve the bounds existing in literature and rather provide more stringent limits on sterile neutrino (νs) flux available in solar neutrino data.
Onboard Charging DC/DC Converter of Electric Vehicle Based on Synchronous Rectification and Characteristic Analysis
Authors: Tao Haijun , Zhang Guopeng , Zheng Zheng
Published: June 2019

The DC/DC converter is the core part of the two-stage electric vehicle Onboard Charger. At present, the phase-shifted full-bridge soft-switching DC/DC converter has problems such as difficulty in commutation of the lagging leg, voltage fluctuation on the secondary side of the transformer, and low efficiency. A full-bridge DC/DC converter with two clamp diodes and synchronous rectification is proposed in this paper. Clamping diodes are used to suppress the voltage oscillation of the secondary side of the transformer and provide the commutating energy of the lagging leg. Synchronous rectification reduces the loss of the switching device. The operating principle and control method of the DC/DC converter are analyzed, and the switching device loss is calculated. The simulation and experimental results show that, compared with the traditional DC/DC converter, the voltage impulse of the secondary side of the transformer is smaller, the efficiency is higher, and the soft switch can be realized in a wide load range, which satisfies the requirement of fast charging of vehicle-mounted batteries.