bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supplemental Material: Morphology, structure, and kinematics of the San Clemente and Catalina faults based on high-resolution marine geophysical data, southern California Inner Continental Borderland (USA)
Authors: Walton M.A.L. , al. et
Published: May 2020

Detailed methods, figures, and analysis.
ASYMPTOTIC BEHAVIOR OF THE SOLUTIONS OF DIFFERENCE EQUATION SYSTEM OF EXPONENTIAL FORM
Authors: KHALIQ ABDUL , ZUBAIR MUHAMMAD , KHAN A. Q.
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we study the boundedness character and persistence, local and global behavior, and rate of convergence of positive solutions of following system of rational difference equations [Formula: see text] wherein the parameters [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] and the initial conditions [Formula: see text] are positive real numbers. Some numerical examples are given to verify our theoretical results.
Experimental Investigation of Heat Flux Characteristics on the Thermally Induced Vibration of a Slender Thin-Walled Beam
Authors: Fan Chao , Bi Yanqiang , Wang Jing , Liu Guoqing , Xiang Zhihai
Published: May 2020

The spacecraft with large flexible space structures may be subject to the thermally induced vibration (TIV) due to the rapidly changed solar heat flux when it enters and leaves the eclipse, which would lead to certain spacecraft failure. This paper reports a laboratory experiment that aims to study the impact of transient characteristics of heat flux on the ground experiment of TIV. In the experiments on the TIV of a slender thin-walled beam, two different methods of providing transient heat flux were considered, and the process of entering and leaving eclipse was simulated, respectively. The experimental results demonstrate that different transient characteristics of heat flux will have large impact on the TIV of the specimen, and the ideal theoretical estimation of thermal characteristic time has limitations in practical engineering. In addition, it is found that the traditional way of simulating solar heat flux by turning on/off infrared heat lamps is not suitable for the TIV ground experiment. Instead, a transient heat flux simulation method by moving the baffle is recommended.
A Convenient Approach to Constructing Superhydrophobic Paper Sensor for Gas Detection with High Immunity to Humidity
Authors: Huang Qiao , Zeng Qiang , Wang Min , Wang Lishi
Published: May 2020

Despite the resistance-type gas sensors attracting intensive research interest, the vulnerability to the interference of humidity is a great challenge for their large-scale productions and applications. Herein, a convenient “gas-sensitized sensing material + adhesive” approach for the fabrication of superhydrophobic interface has been proposed to settle the problem. The multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)/styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene block copolymer (SEBS) layer formed by spraying the cyclohexane suspension of MWCNTs and SEBS with micro/nanostructure endows the sensor with outstanding superhydrophobic property, presenting that the apparent contact angles (CA) are up to 179.6∘. The superhydrophobic paper sensor exhibited high sensing performance for acetone vapor and most importantly exceptional anti-humidity. The response of as-prepared sensor for other gaseous chemicals was consistent with that of MWCNTs, which indicated that the “gas-sensitized sensing [Formula: see text]” approach did not change the MWCNTs gas-sensitive characteristics. The approach builds an efficient bridge between gas-sensitive particles and flexible, superhydrophobic systems, inspiring a new simple way to the development of gas sensor with high immunity to humidity.
Vacuum formation and negative pressure transmission under a self-starting drainage process
Authors: Sun Hong-yue , Shuai Fei-xiang , Wang Dong-fei , Lv Cheng-cheng , Shang Yue-quan
Published: May 2020

Drainage can effectively control landslides that are caused by the infiltration of rainfall. Laboratory model tests were conducted in this study to investigate an efficient groundwater drainage method. The tests identified a drainage method that self-starts and creates a vacuum in the permeable section through siphoning. In addition, the value of the vacuum pressure in the permeable section is related to the difference in the height from the outlet of the drain to the permeable section. The greater the height, the greater the vacuum pressure generated in the permeable section. However, the vacuum pressure attenuates continuously in the process of transfer in the soil. It was also proved that there is a smaller attenuation of the amplitude in soil that has good permeability. Most importantly, the self-starting drainage method makes the surrounding soil form a vacuum seepage field and increases the seepage gradient, thereby improving the efficiency of the drainage.
Glucose-induced, duration-dependent genome-wide DNA methylation changes in human endothelial cells
Authors: Aref-Eshghi Erfan , Biswas Saumik , Chen Charlie , Sadikovic Bekim , Chakrabarti Subrata
Published: May 2020

DNA methylation, a critical epigenetic mechanism, plays an important role in governing gene expressions during biological processes such as aging, which is well known to be accelerated in hyperglycemia (diabetes). In the present study, we investigated the effects of glucose on whole genome DNA methylation in small [human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRECs)] and large [human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs)] vessel endothelial cell (EC) lines exposed to basal or high glucose-containing media for variable lengths of time. Using the Infinium EPIC array, we obtained 773,133 CpG sites (probes) for analysis. Unsupervised clustering of the top 5% probes identified four distinct clusters within EC groups, with significant methylation differences attributed to EC types and the duration of cell culture rather than glucose stimuli alone. When comparing the ECs incubated for 2 days versus 7 days, hierarchical clustering analyses [methylation change >10% and false discovery rate (FDR) <0.05] identified 17,354 and 128 differentially methylated CpGs for HUVECs and HRECs, respectively. Predominant DNA hypermethylation was associated with the length of culture and was enriched for gene enhancer elements and regions surrounding CpG shores and shelves. We identified 88 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) for HUVECs and 8 DMRs for HRECs (all FDR <0.05). Pathway enrichment analyses of DMRs highlighted involvement of regulators of embryonic development (i.e., HOX genes) and cellular differentiation [transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family members]. Collectively, our findings suggest that DNA methylation is a complex process that involves tightly coordinated, cell-specific mechanisms. Such changes in methylation overlap genes critical for cellular differentiation and embryonic development.
Differential changes to splanchnic and peripheral protein metabolism during the diet-induced development of metabolic syndrome in rats
Authors: Mantha O. L. , Huneau J.-F. , Mathé V. , Hermier D. , Khodorova N. , Mariotti F. , Fouillet H.
Published: May 2020

Little is known about the effects of the development of metabolic syndrome (MS) on protein and amino acid (AA) metabolism. During this study, we took advantage of the variability in interindividual susceptibility to high fat diet-induced MS to study the relationships between MS, protein synthesis, and AA catabolism in multiple tissues in rats. After 4 mo of high-fat feeding, an MS score (ZMS) was calculated as the average of the z-scores for individual MS components [weight, adiposities, homeostasis model for the assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and triglycerides]. In the small intestine, liver, plasma, kidneys, heart, and muscles, tissue protein synthesis was measured by 2H2O labeling, and we evaluated the proportion of tissue AA catabolism (relative to protein synthesis) and nutrient routing to nonindispensable AAs in tissue proteins using natural nitrogen and carbon isotopic distances between tissue proteins and nutrients (Δ15N and Δ13C), respectively. In the liver, protein mass and synthesis increased, whereas the proportion of AA catabolism decreased with ZMS. By contrast, in muscles, we found no association between ZMS and protein mass, protein synthesis (except for a weak positive association in the gastrocnemius muscle only), and proportion of AA catabolism. The development of MS was also associated with altered metabolic flexibility and fatty acid oxidation, as shown by less routing of dietary lipids to nonindispensable AA synthesis in liver and muscle. In conclusion, MS development is associated with a greater gain of both fat and protein masses, with higher protein anabolism that mainly occurs in the liver, whereas muscles probably develop anabolic resistance due to insulin resistance.
Bromocriptine mesylate improves glucose tolerance and disposal in a high-fat-fed canine model
Authors: Moore Mary Courtney , Smith Marta S. , Swift Larry L. , Cincotta Anthony H. , Ezrokhi Michael , Cominos Nicholas , Zhang Yahong , Farmer Ben , Cherrington Alan D.
Published: May 2020

Bromocriptine mesylate treatment was examined in dogs fed a high fat diet (HFD) for 8 wk. After 4 wk on HFD, daily bromocriptine (Bromo; n = 6) or vehicle (CTR; n = 5) injections were administered. Oral glucose tolerance tests were performed before beginning HFD (OGTT1), 4 wk after HFD began (Bromo only), and after 7.5 wk on HFD (OGTT3). After 8 wk on HFD, clamp studies were performed, with infusion of somatostatin and intraportal replacement of insulin (4× basal) and glucagon (basal). From 0 to 90 min (P1), glucose was infused via peripheral vein to double the hepatic glucose load; and from 90 to 180 min (P2), glucose was infused via the hepatic portal vein at 4 mg·kg−1·min−1, with the HGL maintained at 2× basal. Bromo decreased the OGTT glucose ΔAUC0–30and ΔAUC0–120by 62 and 27%, respectively, P < 0.05 for both) without significantly altering the insulin response. Bromo dogs exhibited enhanced net hepatic glucose uptake (NHGU) compared with CTR (~33 and 21% greater, P1 and P2, respectively, P < 0.05). Nonhepatic glucose uptake (non-HGU) was increased ~38% in Bromo in P2 ( P < 0.05). Bromo vs. CTR had higher ( P < 0.05) rates of glucose infusion (36 and 30%) and non-HGU (~40 and 27%) than CTR during P1 and P2, respectively. In Bromo vs. CTR, hepatic 18:0/16:0 and 16:1/16:0 ratios tended to be elevated in triglycerides and were higher ( P < 0.05) in phospholipids, consistent with a beneficial effect of bromocriptine on liver fat accumulation. Thus, bromocriptine treatment improved glucose disposal in a glucose-intolerant model, enhancing both NHGU and non-HGU.
SLC1A1, SLC16A9, and CNTN3 Are Potential Biomarkers for the Occurrence of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Zhou Jie , Xie Zhiman , Cui Ping , Su Qisi , Zhang Yu , Luo Lijia , Li Zhuoxin , Ye Li , Liang Hao , Huang Jiegang
Published: May 2020

Background. This study is aimed at identifying unknown clinically relevant genes involved in colorectal cancer using bioinformatics analysis. Methods. Original microarray datasets GSE107499 (ulcerative colitis), GSE8671 (colorectal adenoma), and GSE32323 (colorectal cancer) were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus. Common differentially expressed genes were filtered from the three datasets above. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses were performed, followed by construction of a protein‐protein interaction network to identify hub genes. Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis and TIMER database analysis were used to screen the genes related to the prognosis and tumour‐infiltrating immune cells of colorectal cancer. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess whether the genes could be used as markers for the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, colorectal adenoma, and colorectal cancer. Results. A total of 237 differentially expressed genes common to the three datasets were identified, of which 60 were upregulated, 125 were downregulated, and 52 genes that were inconsistently up‐ and downregulated. Common differentially expressed genes were mainly enriched in the cellular component of extracellular exosome and integral component of membrane categories. Eight hub genes, i.e., CXCL3, CXCL8, CEACAM7, CNTN3, SLC1A1, SLC16A9, SLC4A4, and TIMP1, were related to the prognosis and tumour‐infiltrating immune cells of colorectal cancer, and these genes have diagnostic value for ulcerative colitis, colorectal adenoma, and colorectal cancer. Conclusion. Three novel genes, CNTN3, SLC1A1, and SLC16A9 were shown to have diagnostic value with respect to the occurrence of colorectal cancer and should be verified in future studies.
Anti‐Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effect of Eucommia ulmoides Polysaccharide in Hepatic Ischemia‐Reperfusion Injury by Regulating ROS and the TLR‐4‐NF‐κB Pathway
Authors: Gao Weidong , Feng Zanjie , Zhang Shilong , Wu Bo , Geng Xin , Fan Guoxin , Duan Yuling , Li Kai , Liu Kangwei , Peng Cijun
Published: May 2020

Eucommia ulmoides polysaccharide (EUP) has been shown to have anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, the mechanism underlying these effects has rarely been reported, and whether EUP can reduce liver injury in hepatic ischemia‐reperfusion injury (HIRI) has not been reported. In this study, 40 Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: the sham group, ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) group, and three EUP pretreatment groups (320 mg/kg, 160 mg/kg, and 80 mg/kg). SD rats were pretreated with EUP by gavage once a day prior to I/R injury for 10 days. Except for the sham group, blood flow in the middle and left liver lobes was blocked in all the other groups, resulting in 70% liver ischemia, and the ischemia and reperfusion times were 1 h and 4 h, respectively. Ischemic liver tissue and serum were obtained to detect biochemical markers and liver histopathological damage. Compared with the I/R group, after EUP pretreatment, serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and interleukin‐1β levels were significantly decreased, malondialdehyde levels in liver tissues were significantly decreased, superoxide dismutase levels were significantly increased, and the area of liver necrosis was notably reduced. To understand the specific mechanism involved, we determined the levels of Toll‐like receptor‐ (TLR‐) 4‐nuclear factor‐kappaB (NF‐κB) pathway‐associated proteins in vivo and in vitro. The data showed that EUP can reduce liver damage by decreasing ROS levels and inhibiting TLR‐4‐NF‐κB pathway activation and may be a promising drug in liver surgery to prevent HIRI.
Hospitalization and Predictors of Inpatient Mortality among HIV-Infected Patients in Jimma University Specialized Hospital, Jimma, Ethiopia: Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Mishore Kirubel Minsamo , Hussein Nezif , Huluka Solomon Assefa
Published: May 2020

Despite the number of patients enrolled in ART is increased, HIV/AIDS continues to constitute a significant proportion of medical admissions and risk of mortality in low- and middle-income countries. As one of these countries, the case in Ethiopia is not different. The aim of this study was thus to assess reasons for hospitalization, discharge outcomes, and predictors of inpatient mortality among people living with HIV (PLWH) in Jimma University Specialized Hospital (JUSH), Jimma, Southwest Ethiopia. Prospective observational study was conducted in medical wards of JUSH from February 17thto August 17th, 2017. In this study, 101 PLWH admitted during the study period were included. To identify the predictors of mortality, multiple logistic regression analysis was employed. Of the 101 hospitalized PLWH, 62 (61.4%) of them were females and most of them (52.5%) were between 25 and 34 years of age. A majority (79.2%) of the study participants were known HIV patients, before their admission. Tuberculosis (24.8%), infections of the nervous system (18.8%), and pneumonia (9.9%) comprised more than half of the reasons for hospitalization. Moreover, drug-related toxicity was a reason for hospitalization of 6 (5.9%) patients. Outcomes of hospitalization indicated that the overall inpatient mortality was 18 (17.8%). The median CD4 cell counts for survivors and deceased patients were 202 cells/μL (IQR, 121–295 cells/μL) and 70 cells/μL (IQR, 42–100 cells/μL), respectively. Neurologic complications (AOR = 13.97; 95% CI: 2.32–84.17,P=0.004), CD4 count ≤ 100 cells/μl (AOR = 16.40; 95% CI: 2.88–93.42,P=0.002), and short hospital stay (AOR = 12.98, 95% CI: 2.13–78.97,P=0.005) were found to be significant predictors of inpatient mortality. In conclusion, opportunistic infections are the main reason of hospitalization in PLWH.
Comparison of Valgus Correction Angle between Patients with Developmental Dysplasia Hip and Normal Volunteers Measured by Three‐Dimensional Reconstruction and X‐Ray
Authors: Zhang Aobo , Han Qing , Chen Bingpeng , Wang Chenyu , Zhao Xue , Wang Jincheng
Published: May 2020

Background and purpose. A new method of three‐dimensional (3D) reconstruction technology was used to take place of X‐ray in measuring valgus correction angle (VCA) of both DDH patients and normal volunteers to improve precision. Two different ways to define VCA according to the various conditions of patients were compared and analyzed. Methods. Bilateral VCA of 50 DDH patients and 56 normal volunteers were measured by Mimics software in the 3D method and X‐ray in 2D. Two VCA (the upper VCA and the lower VCA) were measured in both two methods. Every VCA was measured by observer A and observer B for twice separately. The statistical analyses of the differences were calculated among the measurements of the VCA. Results. The mean value of the upper VCA measured in 3D was 4.95° ± 0.76° in DDH group and 5.56° ± 0.62° in the normal group with significant difference (t = −6.457, p < 0.01). The VCA of DDH group and normal group measured by 3D was larger than 2D, both the upper VCA and the lower VCA. The differences indicated statistically significant. The mean value of lower VCA was 0.60° smaller than the mean value of upper VCA in normal volunteers. The mean value of the lower VCA was 0.58° larger than the mean value of the upper VCA in DDH patients. Conclusions. Compared to X‐ray, 3D reconstruction technology is more accurate without conventional limitations. The lower VCA of DDH patients should be regarded as the femoral intramedullary guide angle in TKA, especially for patients with femoral deformities.
Functional and Structural Analysis of Predicted Proteins Obtained from Homo sapiens’ Minisatellite 33.15‐Tagged Transcript pAKT‐45 Variants
Authors: Shahbaaz Mohd , Al-Samghan Awad Saeed , Malik Arshi , Afaq Sarah , Alwabli Afaf S. , Ahmad Irfan , Hussien Mostafa A. , Zubair Mohammad , Fatima Farha , Begum Shamina , Alzahrani Othman , Tarique Mohammed
Published: May 2020

The spermatozoa are transcriptionally dormant entities which have been recognized to be an archive of mRNA, coding for a variety of functionally crucial cellular proteins. This significant repository of mRNA is predicted to be associated with early embryogenesis and postfertilization. The mRNA transcripts which are tagged with minisatellites have been involved in the regulation of the gene functions as well as their organization. However, very little information is available regarding the expression of the transcripts tagged with minisatellites in spermatozoa. Therefore, in order to understand the functions and the conformational behavior of the proteins expressed from these minisatellite‐tagged transcripts, we have performed a detailed in silico analysis using the sequences of the transcripts. The protein predicted from KF274549 showed the functionalities similar to uncharacterized C4orf26 proteins, while that obtained from KF274557 predicted to be a metallophosphoesterase. Furthermore, the structural folds in the structure of these predicted proteins were analyzed by using the homology modeling and their conformational behaviors in the explicit water conditions were analyzed by using the techniques of Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations. This detailed analysis will facilitate the understanding of these proteins in the spermatozoon region and can be used for uncovering other attributes of the metabolic network.
Microgravity versus Microgravity and Irradiation: Investigating the Change of Neuroendocrine‐Immune System and the Antagonistic Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula
Authors: Zhu Haoru , Zhang Lin , Qian Meng , Shi Tuo , Fan Fangxin , Li Wenfei , Zhu Sitai , Xie Ming
Published: May 2020

During spaceflight, the homeostasis of the living body is threatened with cosmic environment including microgravity and irradiation. Traditional Chinese medicine could ameliorate the internal imbalance during spaceflight, but its mechanism is still unclear. In this article, we compared the difference of neuroendocrine‐immune balance between simulated microgravity (S) and simulated microgravity and irradiation (SAI) environment. We also observed the antagonistic effect of SAI using a traditional Chinese medicine formula (TCMF). Wistar rats were, respectively, exposed under S using tail suspending and SAI using tail suspending and 60Co‐gama irradiation exposure. The SAI rats were intervened with TCMF. The changes of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, splenic T‐cell, celiac macrophages, and related cytokines were observed after 21 days. Compared with the normal group, the hyperfunction of HPA axis and celiac macrophages, as well as the hypofunction of splenic T‐cells, was observed in both the S and SAI group. Compared with the S group, the levels of plasmatic corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH), macrophage activity, and serous interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) in the SAI group were significantly reduced. The dysfunctional targets were mostly reversed in the TCMF group. Both S and SAI could lead to NEI imbalance. Irradiation could aggravate the negative feedback inhibition of HPA axis and macrophages caused by S. TCMF could ameliorate the NEI dysfunction caused by SAI.
A Novel Stick‐Slip Type Rotary Piezoelectric Actuator
Authors: Wang Yuan , Xu Minglong , Shao Shubao , Song Siyang , Shao Yan
Published: May 2020

A novel stick‐slip rotary piezoelectric actuator is designed for optical use. The actuator is proposed, fabricated, and tested with the aim of realizing both fine resolution and a long stroke. The dynamic model of the actuator is established, and simulations are performed to discover how the input driving voltage affects the stick‐slip motion of the actuator. An experimental system is built to evaluate the performance of the actuator at different frequencies, voltages, and numbers of driving piezoelectric stacks. Experimental results show that the minimal output stepping angle is 3.5 μrad (0.2 millidegrees) under a sawtooth waveform having a voltage of 13 V and frequency of 3000 Hz and that the velocity reaches 0.44 rad/s (25°/s) under a sawtooth waveform having a voltage of 93 V and frequency of 3000 Hz, while the stroke is infinite. The proposed actuator provides stable and accurate rotary motion and realizes a high velocity.
Strength Characteristics of Cement Treated and Expanded Polystyrene Mixed Lightweight of Waste Soil from the Construction Site of a Yangtze River Bridge in China
Authors: Lu Weihua , Wang Jianyun , Zhang Yongxing
Published: May 2020

In the past decades, the speed and scale of Chinese infrastructure construction have been enormous, and the resulting construction waste is also quite amazing, which has become a huge threat to environmental protection. If the pollution‐free engineering utilization of the construction waste can be achieved at a low cost, it will undoubtedly be a great benefit for the country and the people. Therefore, a preliminary experimental study was conducted to investigate the strength characteristics of the cement treated and expanded polystyrene mixed lightweight. The waste soil (muddy clay and fine sand) as the main component of the lightweight mixture is taken from a foundation construction site of a Yangtze River Bridge which connects two eastern coastal cities, Zhenjiang and Yangzhou. With different mixture ratios and additives of the cement treated and expanded polystyrene mixed lightweight, a series of cubic samples were tested by the unconfined compressive strength test, and collections of standard cylinder samples prepared by hand were inspected by the conventional triaxial shear test. Then, a good exponential relationship between the uniaxial compressive strength and the cement mixing ration was founded, and a logarithmic relationship was captured between the compressive strength and curing time within a period of 28 days after the specimens were made. Samples made of different soil as raw materials have different strengths, but all of these specimens show a strain‐hardening and stable behavior. Results show that the mechanical strength characteristics of the cement treated and expanded polystyrene mixed waste soil mainly depend on the proportions of lightweight mixture.
A Graph-Based Feature Generation Approach in Android Malware Detection with Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Liu Xiaojian , Lei Qian , Liu Kehong
Published: May 2020

An explosive spread of Android malware causes a serious concern for Android application security. One of the solutions to detecting malicious payloads sneaking in an application is to treat the detection as a binary classification problem, which can be effectively tackled with traditional machine learning techniques. The key factors in detecting Android malware with machine learning techniques are feature selection and generation. Most of the existing approaches select and generate features without fully examining the structures of programs, and thus the important semantic information associated with these features is lost, consequently resulting in a low accuracy rate in detection. To address this issue, we propose a new feature generation approach for Android applications, which takes components and program structures into consideration and extracts features in a graph-based and semantics-rich style. This approach highlights two major distinguishing aspects: the context-based feature selection and graph-based feature generation. We abstract an Android application as a collection of reduced iCFGs (interprocedural control flow graphs) and extract original features from these graphs. Combining the original features and their contexts together, we generate new features which hold richer semantic information than the original ones. By embedding the features into a feature vector space, we can use machine learning techniques to train a malware detector. The experiment results show that this approach achieves an accuracy rate of 95.4% and a recall rate of 96.5%, which prove the effectiveness and advantages of our approach.
Simulation Analysis of Knowledge Transfer in a Knowledge Alliance Based on a Circular Surface Radiator Model
Authors: Su Yi , Li Tianchi
Published: May 2020

Based on the theory of acoustic waves, a circular surface radiator model is introduced as a basis for constructing a knowledge transfer model for a knowledge alliance. The three main variables in the model are chosen to be the number of enterprises in knowledge alliance, the frequency of knowledge transfer, and the relationship distances between the knowledge bodies. The internal mechanism of knowledge transfer in a knowledge alliance is studied, and the direct relationships among the internal influencing factors are explored. The results show that the number of enterprises in knowledge alliance, knowledge transfer frequency, and knowledge transfer effect are positively correlated. The “Rayleigh distance” in the knowledge field is the appropriate relationship distance measure for assessing knowledge transfer within the alliance. The Rayleigh distance is highly correlated with the number of enterprises in knowledge alliance and knowledge transfer frequency. Moreover, the number of enterprises in knowledge alliance and knowledge transfer frequency are interrelated.
Suggestions for Radiation Oncologists during the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Franco Pierfrancesco , Kochbati Lofti , Siano Marco , De Bari Berardino
Published: May 2020

SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic and COVID‐19 diffusion have recently become an international public health emergency. Cancer patients, as a frail population, are particularly exposed to the risk related to infections. The clinical decision‐making process and the organizational workflow of radiotherapy department should be revised in the light of the critical situation. We herein provide practical suggestions derived from the available literature and discussed during an online session held within the e‐learning educational program of the European School of Oncology on March 31st 2020.
Refractory Ventricular Fibrillation Treated with Double Simultaneous Defibrillation: Pilot Study
Authors: Kim Hee Eun , Lee Kui Ja , Jo You Hwan , Lee Jae Hyuk , Kim Yu Jin , Kim Joong Hee , Lee Dong Keon , Kim Dong Won , Park Seung Min , Oh Young Taeck
Published: May 2020

Introduction. Refractory shockable rhythm has a high mortality rate and poor neurological outcome. Treatments for refractory shockable rhythm presenting after defibrillation and medical treatment are not definite. We conducted research on the application of double simultaneous defibrillation (DSiD) for refractory shockable rhythms. Methods. This is a retrospective pilot study performed using medical records from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2017. The prephase was from January to December 2016. The post-phase was from January to December 2017. During the prephase, we conducted conventional defibrillation with one defibrillator, and during the post-phase, we conducted DSiD using two defibrillators. Primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge. Secondary outcomes included survival to hospital admission and good neurological outcome at 12 months. Statistical analysis was conducted using Fisher’s exact test. Data were regarded statistically significant when p<0.05. Result. A total of 38 patients were included. Twenty-one patients underwent conventional defibrillation, and 17 underwent DSiD. The DSiD group had a higher survival to admission rate (14/17 (82.4%) vs. 6/21 (28.6%), p=0.001) and showed a trend for higher survival to discharge (7/17 (41.2%) vs. 3/21 (14.3%), p=0.078). Good neurological outcome at 12 months of the DSiD group was higher than that of the conventional defibrillation group, but the difference was not statistically significant (5/17 (29.4%) vs 2/21 (9.5%), p=0.207). Conclusion. In patients with refractory shockable rhythms, DSiD has increased survival to hospital admission and a trend of increased survival to hospital discharge. However, DSiD did not improve neurological outcome at 12 months.
In Vitro Biocompatibility Evaluation of Nine Dermal Fillers on L929 Cell Line
Authors: Cannella Vincenza , Altomare Roberta , Leonardi Vincenza , Russotto Laura , Di Bella Santina , Mira Francesco , Guercio Annalisa
Published: May 2020

Objective. Biomaterial research for soft tissue augmentation is an increasing topic in aesthetic medicine. Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are widely used for their low invasiveness and easy application to correct aesthetic defects or traumatic injuries. Some complications as acute or chronic inflammation can occur in patients following the injection. Biocompatibility assays are required for medical devices intended for human use, in order to prevent damages or injuries in the host. In this study, nine HA fillers were tested in order to evaluate their cytotoxicity and their effects on L929 cell line, according to the UNI EN ISO 10993 regulation. Methods. Extracts were prepared from nine HA fillers, and MTS viability assay was performed after 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h of exposure of cells to extracts. Cells cultured with HA filler extracts were monitored for up to 72 h, counted, and stained with haematoxylin/eosin in order to evaluate the cell proliferation rate and morphology. Results. None of the filler tested showed a cytotoxic effect. Two samples showed a higher vitality percentage and higher cell number while two samples showed a lower vitality percentage and lower cell number at 72 h. Conclusion. Data obtained suggest that although examined fillers are not cytotoxic, they show different effects on the in vitro cell proliferation rate. In vitro studies of medical devices could lead to important implications since these could aid to predict effects about their in vivo application. These easy and rapid assays could be useful to test new materials intended for human use avoiding animal tests.
Targeting RET Kinase in Neuroendocrine Prostate Cancer
Authors: VanDeusen Halena R. , Ramroop Johnny R. , Morel Katherine L. , Bae Song Yi , Sheahan Anjali V. , Sychev Zoi , Lau Nathan A. , Cheng Larry C. , Tan Victor M. , Li Zhen , Petersen Ashley , Lee John K. , Park Jung Wook , Yang Rendong , Hwang Justin H. , Coleman Ilsa , Witte Owen N. , Morrissey Colm , Corey Eva , Nelson Peter S. , Ellis Leigh , Drake Justin M.
Published: May 2020

The increased treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with second-generation antiandrogen therapies (ADT) has coincided with a greater incidence of lethal, aggressive variant prostate cancer (AVPC) tumors that have lost dependence on androgen receptor (AR) signaling. These AR-independent tumors may also transdifferentiate to express neuroendocrine lineage markers and are termed neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC). Recent evidence suggests kinase signaling may be an important driver of NEPC. To identify targetable kinases in NEPC, we performed global phosphoproteomics comparing several AR-independent to AR-dependent prostate cancer cell lines and identified multiple altered signaling pathways, including enrichment of RET kinase activity in the AR-independent cell lines. Clinical NEPC patient samples and NEPC patient-derived xenografts displayed upregulated RET transcript and RET pathway activity. Genetic knockdown or pharmacologic inhibition of RET kinase in multiple mouse and human models of NEPC dramatically reduced tumor growth and decreased cell viability. Our results suggest that targeting RET in NEPC tumors with high RET expression could be an effective treatment option. Currently, there are limited treatment options for patients with aggressive neuroendocrine prostate cancer and none are curative.

Implications:

Identification of aberrantly expressed RET kinase as a driver of tumor growth in multiple models of NEPC provides a significant rationale for testing the clinical application of RET inhibitors in patients with AVPC.
Comparison of Adrenaline and Dexmedetomidine in Improving the Cutaneous Analgesia of Mexiletine in Response to Skin Pinpricks in Rats
Authors: Han Mingming , Kang Fang , Yang Chengwei , Liu Ziyou , Wang Ting , Zhai Mingyu , Li Juan
Published: May 2020

Background: Adrenaline (Adr) and dexmedetomidine (Dex) are commonly used adjuvants of local anesthetics; however, the difference in the improvement of analgesia of local anesthetics between the 2 adjuvants remains unclear. Objective: The objective of this experimental research was to evaluate the cutaneous analgesic effect of mexiletine (Mex) by coadministration with Dex or Adr. Methods: The effect of a nociceptive block was assessed based on the inhibition of the cutaneous trunci muscle reflex in response to skin pinpricks in rats. The analgesic activity of Mex alone and Mex coadministered with Dex or Adr was evaluated after subcutaneous injections. Subcutaneous injections of drugs or combinations include Mex 0.6, 1.8, and 6.0 μmol; Adr 13.66 nmol; Dex 1.05600 nmol; saline; and Mex 1.8 and 6.0 μmol, respectively, combined with Dex 0.01056, 0.10560, and 1.05600 nmol or Adr 0.55, 2.73, and 13.66 nmol, with each injection dose of 0.6 mL. Results: Subcutaneous injections of Mex elicited dose-related cutaneous analgesia. Compared with Mex (1.8 μmol), adding Dex or Adr to Mex (1.8 μmol) solutions for skin nociceptive block potentiated and prolonged the action. Mex (6.0 μmol) combined with Dex or Adr extended the duration of cutaneous analgesia when compared with Mex (6.0 μmol) alone. A high dose of Adr is more effective with Mex 1.8 μmol than that of Dex, whereas medium and low doses were less effective. Mex 6.0 μmol combined with any dose of Adr is superior to that of Dex. Conclusions: Both Dex and Adr improve the sensory block and enhance the nociceptive block duration of Mex. But in most cases, Adr is superior to Dex. It may be that different mechanisms of action of the 2 adjuvants lead to the differences.
Time Trends in the Use of Coronary Procedures, Guideline-Based Therapy, and All-Cause Mortality following the Acute Coronary Syndrome in Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Attar Rubina , Jensen Svend Eggert , Nielsen Rene Ernst , Polcwiartek Christoffer , Andell Pontus , Pedersen Christian Torp , Kragholm Kristian
Published: May 2020

Aim: Schizophrenia is associated with high cardiovascular mortality predominantly as a result of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The aim of this study is to analyze time trends of coronary procedures, guideline-based therapy, and all-cause mortality in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. Methods and Results: This Danish nationwide register-based study analyzed 734 patients with a baseline diagnosis of schizophrenia and an incident diagnosis of ACS in the period between January 1, 1996, and December 31, 2015. The 734 patients with schizophrenia were matched to 2,202 psychiatric healthy controls (PHC). No change over time was seen in the relative difference between the population with schizophrenia and the PHC in the use of coronary angiography, percutaneous coronary intervention, and coronary bypass grafting, nor in 1-year mortality or guideline-based therapy following ACS. Patients with schizophrenia had higher prevalence rates of diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and stroke, and a lower prevalence of hypertension (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The gap in the use of coronary procedures, guideline-based therapy, and all-cause mortality following ACS in patients with schizophrenia compared to those without has remained constant over the past 2 decades.
Influencing Factors of Recanalization after Intravenous Thrombolysis with Urokinase in Acute Cerebral Infarction Patients
Authors: Zeng Jianqi , Wang Feng , Feng Haishan , Chen Feng , Wang Ru , Chen Yiqian , Chen Xingyu , Miao Jiayin
Published: May 2020

Background: Intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) with urokinase is the standard reperfusion therapy for acute cerebral infarction (ACI) in China. Only about 30% patients who use urokinase for IVT can recanalize. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the influencing factors of recanalization after IVT using urokinase in ACI patients. Methods: A total of 391 consecutive patients with a diagnosis of ACI from January 2013 to October 2019 were enrolled and divided into 2 groups: patients without recanalization and patients with recanalization. Related data were collected and analyzed. Results: Univariate analysis showed that there were significant differences in gender, atrial fibrillation, erythrocyte mean corpuscular volume, platelet large cell ratio (P-LCR), glucose (GLU), and severity of ICAS between patients without recanalization and patients with recanalization (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that P-LCR (odds ratio [OR] = 0.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.03–0.89, p = 0.04), GLU (OR = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.11–0.67, p = 0.004), and ICAS severity (OR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.32–0.76, p = 0.001) were the influencing factors of recanalization. Conclusion: For patients with higher levels of P-LCR, GLU, or ICAS severity, the recanalization rate might decrease after ACI.
Giant Brachial Aneurysm after Arteriovenous Fistula Ligation: A Review of the Different Surgical Approaches
Authors: Salerno Alessia , Leopardi Marco , Maggipinto Annamaria , Ventura Marco
Published: May 2020

The aim of this paper is to describe the case of a patient successfully treated for left brachial arterial aneurysm occurring 15 years after renal transplantation and consequent 8 years after arteriovenous fistula (AVF) ligation. We describe our experience and our surgical approach. A 45-year-old man presented to our attention for a large pulsatile formation on the volatile face of the left forearm, which he reported to have enlarged in the last year. He had a history of chronic renal impairment in 2000, then AVF for dialysis was realized, and he was finally addressed to kidney transplantation in 2004. In 2011 the AVF was ligated. We observed absence of radial pulse and direct flow on the ulnar artery; a large pulsatile formation was evident along the course of the left brachial artery, associated with forearm venous dilatation. Doppler ultrasound showed fusiform aneurysm of the brachial artery with 3.5 cm diameter and longitudinal extension of 5 cm up to the brachial bifurcation. We removed the brachial aneurysm, with a venous bypass on the ulnar artery. The patient was discharged in good general condition on the second postoperative day. At 1- and 6-month follow-up he had complete recovery with graft patency, without any neurological impairment and with a good esthetic result. An open surgical repair with great saphenous vein interposition seems to be the best choice in terms of patency and perioperative morbidity.
The Effect of Perineal Warm Application on Perineal Pain, Perineal Integrity, and Postpartum Comfort in the Second Stage of Labor: Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Türkmen Hülya , Çetinkaya Serap , Apay Emine , Karamüftüoğlu Devrim , Kılıç Hafize
Published: May 2020

Background: Protection of perineum and reduction of perineal pain is important in the second stage of labor. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of perineal warm application on perineal pain, perineal integrity, and postnatal comfort in the second stage of labor. Methods: A single blind randomized and controlled experimental study was conducted with a total of 100 primiparous pregnant women in the warm application (n = 50) and control groups (n = 50). The warm application group was given a damp and warm application to the perineal region during the second stage of labor and only the standard midwifery care was given to the control group. Pregnant Introductory Form was used in the collection of data. Perineal pain level was measured prior to and after the intervention, after delivery, and 2 h from delivery by means of Visual Analogue Scale. In the postpartum period, the perineal condition was evaluated by the midwife with Questionnaire to Determine the Perineal Condition. Two hours from the delivery, Postpartum Comfort Questionnaire was used to determine the comfort level of the women. Results: It was found that there was a decrease in the pain levels of the warm application group compared to pre-intervention pain levels (p < 0.0001). When the warm application and control groups were compared, we found statistically significant differences between the pain levels immediately after the intervention (perineal pain: 8.54 ± 1.38 vs. 9.56 ± 0.57, p < 0.0001), after delivery (perineal pain: 2.20 ± 1.72 vs. 3.64 ± 2.07, p < 0.0001), and 2 h after delivery (perineal pain: 0.30 ± 0.78 vs. 0.68 ± 0.98, p = 0.028). In the study, the intactness of perineum was found to be significantly higher in the warm application group compared to the control group (p = 0.003). The suture need for perinea was significantly higher in the control group than in the warm application group (p = 0.016). In the study, the physical comfort level of the warm application group was found to be significantly higher than the control group (56.06 ± 4.61 vs. 54.30 ± 4.73, p = 0.012). Conclusions: In the second stage of labor, it was found that the application of warmth decreases perineal pain, maintains the perineal integrity, and improves postpartum comfort.
Propelling Health Care into the Twenties
Authors: Horgan Denis , Borisch Bettina , Richer Etienne , Bernini Chiara , Kalra Dipak , Lawler Mark , Ciliberto Gennaro , Van Poppel Hendrik , Paradiso Angelo , Riegman Peter , Triberti Stefano , Metspalu Andres , Chiti Arturo , Macintyre Elizabeth , Boccia Stefania , Calvo Fabien , Schatz Desmond , Koeva-Balabanova Jasmina , Jonsson Bengt
Published: May 2020

The scope and potential of personalised health care are underappreciated and underrealised, often because of resistance to change. The consequence is that many inadequacies of health care in Europe persist unnecessarily, and many opportunities for improvement are neglected. This article identifies the principal challenges, outlines possible approaches to resolving them, and highlights the benefits that could result from greater adoption of personalised health care. It locates the discussion in the context of European policy, focusing particularly on the most recent and authoritative reviews of health care in the EU Member States, and on the newly acquired spirit of readiness and pragmatism among European officials to embrace change and innovative technologies in a new decade. It highlights the attention now being given by policymakers to incentives, innovation, and investment as levers to improve European citizens’ prospects in a rapidly evolving world, and how these distinct and disruptive themes contribute to a renaissance in thinking about delivering optimal health care in Europe. It explores the chances offered to patients by specific initiatives in health domains such as cancer and antimicrobial resistance, and by innovative science, novel therapies, earlier diagnosis tools, and deeper understanding of health promotion and prevention. And it reflects on how health care providers could benefit from a shift towards better primary care and towards deploying health data more effectively, including the use of artificial intelligence, coupled with a move to a smoother organisational/regulatory structure and realigned professional responsibilities. The conclusion is that preparing Europe’s health care systems for the inevitable strains of the coming years is both possible and necessary. A more courageous approach to embracing personalised health care could guarantee the sustainability of Europe’s health care systems before rising demands and exponential costs overwhelm them – an exercise in future-proofing, in ensuring that they are equipped to withstand whatever lies ahead. A focus on the potential and implementation of personalised care would permit more efficient use of resources and deliver better quality health-preserving care.