bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motor Imagery-Based Brain-Computer Interface Coupled to a Robotic Hand Orthosis Aimed for Neurorehabilitation of Stroke Patients
Authors: Cantillo-Negrete Jessica , Carino-Escobar Ruben I. , Carrillo-Mora Paul , Elias-Vinas David , Gutierrez-Martinez Josefina
Published: April 2018

Motor imagery-based brain-computer interfaces (BCI) have shown potential for the rehabilitation of stroke patients; however, low performance has restricted their application in clinical environments. Therefore, this work presents the implementation of a BCI system, coupled to a robotic hand orthosis and driven by hand motor imagery of healthy subjects and the paralysed hand of stroke patients. A novel processing stage was designed using a bank of temporal filters, the common spatial pattern algorithm for feature extraction and particle swarm optimisation for feature selection. Offline tests were performed for testing the proposed processing stage, and results were compared with those computed with common spatial patterns. Afterwards, online tests with healthy subjects were performed in which the orthosis was activated by the system. Stroke patients’ average performance was 74.1 ± 11%. For 4 out of 6 patients, the proposed method showed a statistically significant higher performance than the common spatial pattern method. Healthy subjects’ average offline and online performances were of 76.2 ± 7.6% and 70 ± 6.7, respectively. For 3 out of 8 healthy subjects, the proposed method showed a statistically significant higher performance than the common spatial pattern method. System’s performance showed that it has a potential to be used for hand rehabilitation of stroke patients.
Erythromycin for Promoting the Postpyloric Placement of Feeding Tubes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jiang Qing-Jun , Jiang Cai-Feng , Chen Qi-Tong , Shi Jian , Shi Bin
Published: April 2018

Background. Critically ill patients can benefit from enteral nutrition with postpyloric feeding tubes, but the low success rate limits its wide use. Erythromycin could elevate the success rate of tube insertion, but its clinical efficiency still remains controversial. Methods. Included studies must be RCTs which assessed the success rate of postpyloric feeding tube insertion using erythromycin. Results. 284 patients were enrolled in six studies. Meta-analysis showed that erythromycin significantly increases the rate of successful postpyloric feeding tube placement (RR 1.45, 95% CI (1.12, 1.86)) and did not increase the risk of adverse effects (RR 2.15, 95% CI (0.20, 22.82)). Subgroup analysis showed that unweighted feeding tubes (RR 1.47, 95% CI (1.03, 2.11)) could significantly increase the success rate. Country of study, intravenous route of erythromycin, and year of participant enrollment did not influence these results. Conclusions. Erythromycin significantly increases the success rate of postpyloric feeding tube placement. This suggests that erythromycin can be used as an auxiliary method to improve the success rate of bedside insertion.
Histopathological Findings in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Specimens from Patients with Obesity in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aljerian Khaldoon
Published: April 2018

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is a bariatric surgical procedure performed in patients with morbid obesity that provides the opportunity to review histopathological changes. The aim of this study was to characterize resected gastric specimens obtained from a Saudi patient population at a single center for a prospectively maintained database of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy cases. The histopathological findings from all patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomies at King Khalid University Hospital between 2010 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Of the 602 cases reviewed, the majority (83.4% [n=502]) exhibited chronic gastritis, whereas 22.3% (n=134) involved Helicobacter pylori infections with active gastritis, 1% (n=6) had intestinal metaplasia, and one case (0.17%) revealed gastric adenocarcinoma. As the findings revealed conditions that are treatable, I highly recommend histological examinations of all sleeve gastrectomy specimens from a Saudi patient population.
Thromboembolic Events Secondary to Endoscopic Cyanoacrylate Injection: Can We Foresee Any Red Flags?
Authors: Tseng Yujen , Ma Lili , Luo Tiancheng , Zeng Xiaoqing , Wei Yichao , Li Ling , Xu Pengju , Chen Shiyao
Published: April 2018

Background. Gastric varices (GV) are associated with high morbidity and mortality in patients with portal hypertension. Endoscopic cyanoacrylate injection is the first-line recommended therapy for GV obliteration. This study aims to explore the reason behind related adverse events and better prevent its occurrence. Methods. A retrospective case series study was conducted from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2016, to identify patients who experienced severe adverse events secondary to endoscopic cyanoacrylate injection. A literature review of similar cases was performed on two medical databases, Medline and Embase. Results. A total of 652 patients underwent cyanoacrylate injection at our center within the study duration. Five cases of severe adverse events related to the use of tissue adhesives were identified. Detailed clinical presentation, patient treatment, and outcomes were reviewed and analyzed. Twenty-seven similar cases were identified based on the literature review providing further insight into the study. Conclusion. Although rare in incidence, systemic embolism associated with cyanoacrylate injection is often fatal or debilitating. This report may raise awareness in treatment protocol, including the necessity of preoperative angiographic studies, to avoid similar adverse events in clinical practice.
Properties of Ceramic Substrate Materials for High‐Temperature Pressure Sensors for Operation above 1000°C
Authors: Guo YanJie , Lu Fei , Zhang Lei , Dong HeLei , Tan QiuLin , Xiong JiJun
Published: April 2018

In order to identify suitable substrate materials for sue in high‐temperature pressure sensors that can operate above 1000°C, the high‐temperature properties of four high‐performance ceramics (99% pure Al2O3 (99Al2O3), 97% pure Al2O3 (97Al2O3), sapphire, and ZrO2) were investigated. Three‐point bend testing was used to measure the flexural strengths and flexural moduli of these ceramics, and transient laser emission was used to measure their thermal conductivities. The samples were prepared by hot‐press sintering: plates with the dimensions of 3.5 × 5 × 50 mm3 for the bend testing and rods of φ12.5 × 1.5 mm3 for the thermal conductivity measurements. Curves showing the dependence of flexural strength, flexural modulus, and thermal conductivity on temperature were obtained. The results show that the flexural strength and thermal conductivity of sapphire are much greater than those of the other ceramics tested. Thus, we conclude that sapphire is the most appropriate of these materials for use in high‐temperature pressure sensors for operation at up to 1000°C.
The Effect of a Short Period of Supplementation with Glutamine Dipeptide on the Cognitive Responses after a Resistance Training Session of Women with HIV/AIDS: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Crossover Study
Authors: Souza Dayane Cristina de , Silva Junior Cesar da , Matos Felipe de Oliveira , Okano Alexandre Hideki , Bazotte Roberto Barbosa , Avelar Ademar
Published: April 2018

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of a short period of supplementation with glutamine dipeptide (GDP) on the acute responses to resistance training on the executive functions of people with HIV/AIDS. The sample consisted of 10 HIV+ women (45.00±12.77years old;65.71±12.04 kg;1.54±0.05 m) who were submitted to a randomized double-blind crossover procedure according to two experimental conditions: orally supplemented with 20 g/day of GDP or with maltodextrin for seven days. On the seventh day of supplementation all participants did cognitive function tests before and immediately after a resistance training session. Seven days of washout were adopted between conditions. Stroop andN-back tests were used to evaluate the executive functions. The training reduced the response time of each card in isolation and the latency time among them. GDP supplementation increased the magnitude of this effect, thus, reducing the latency time from the first to the last card in the Stroop test by almost 50% (P<0.01). Considering theN-back test, there were no significant differences. It is suggested that GDP supplementation may increase the magnitude of the effect of an acute resistance training session in cognitive functions, particularly in the inhibitory control of people with HIV/AIDS. This trial is registered withNCT03236532.
Aquatic Toxic Analysis by Monitoring Fish Behavior Using Computer Vision: A Recent Progress
Authors: Xia Chunlei , Fu Longwen , Liu Zuoyi , Liu Hui , Chen Lingxin , Liu Yuedan
Published: April 2018

Video tracking based biological early warning system achieved a great progress with advanced computer vision and machine learning methods. Ability of video tracking of multiple biological organisms has been largely improved in recent years. Video based behavioral monitoring has become a common tool for acquiring quantified behavioral data for aquatic risk assessment. Investigation of behavioral responses under chemical and environmental stress has been boosted by rapidly developed machine learning and artificial intelligence. In this paper, we introduce the fundamental of video tracking and present the pioneer works in precise tracking of a group of individuals in 2D and 3D space. Technical and practical issues suffered in video tracking are explained. Subsequently, the toxic analysis based on fish behavioral data is summarized. Frequently used computational methods and machine learning are explained with their applications in aquatic toxicity detection and abnormal pattern analysis. Finally, advantages of recent developed deep learning approach in toxic prediction are presented.
The Immunoexpression of YAP1 and LATS1 Proteins in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma: Impact on Patients’ Survival
Authors: Godlewski J. , Kiezun J. , Krazinski B. E. , Kozielec Z. , Wierzbicki P. M. , Kmiec Z.
Published: April 2018

The aim of the study was to determine by immunohistochemistry cellular localization and immunoreactivity levels of YAP1 and LATS1 proteins in paired sections of tumor and unchanged renal tissues of 54 clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) patients. Associations between clinical-pathological and overall survival (OS; median follow-up was 40.6 months) data of patients and YAP1 and LATS1 immunoreactivity were analyzed by uni- and multivariate Cox regression model and log-rank test. YAP1 immunoreactivity was found in the nuclei of tumor cells in 64.8% of ccRCC patients, whereas only 24.1% of tumors revealed cytoplasmic YAP1 expression. LATS1 immunoexpression was observed only in the cytoplasm of tumor cells in 59.3% of patients. LATS1 immunoreactivity in cancer cells negatively correlated with the size of primary tumor. The overall YAP1 immunoreactivity did not correlate with clinical-pathological data of patients. However, the subgroup of ccRCC patients who presented with cytoplasmic YAP1 immunoexpression had significantly shorter OS (median = 26.8 months) than patients without cytoplasmic YAP1 expression (median undefined). Multivariate Cox analysis revealed that increased cytoplasmic YAP1 (HR = 4.53) and decreased LATS1 immunoreactivity levels (HR = 0.90) were associated with worse prognosis, being independent prognostic factors. These results suggest that YAP1 and LATS1 can be considered as new prognostic factors in ccRCC.
Dynamic Model of MR Dampers Based on a Hysteretic Magnetic Circuit
Authors: Guo Pengfei , Xie Jing , Guan Xinchun
Published: April 2018

As a key to understand dynamic performances of MR dampers, a comprehensive dynamic magnetic circuit model is proposed in this work on the basis of Ampere’s and Gauss’s laws. It takes into account not only the magnetic saturation, which many existing studies have focused on, but also the magnetic hysteresis and eddy currents in a MR damper. The hysteresis of steel parts of MR dampers is described by Jiles‐Atherton (J‐A) models, and the eddy current is included based on the field separation. Compared with the FEM results, the proposed model is validated in low‐ and high‐frequency studies for the predictions of the magnetic saturation, the hysteresis, and the effect of eddy currents. A simple multiphysics model is developed to demonstrate how to combine the proposed magnetic circuit model with the commonly used Bingham fluid model. The damping force in the high‐frequency case obviously lags behind the coil current, which exhibits a hysteresis loop in the current‐force plane. The lag of damping force even exists in a low‐frequency varying magnetic field and becomes more severe in the presence of eddy currents.
The Constellation of Macrovascular Risk Factors in Early Onset T2DM: A Cross-Sectional Study in Xinjiang Province, China
Authors: Zhang Mingchen , Mao Jiangfeng , Tuerdi Ablikm , Zeng Xiaoyun , Quan Li , Xiao Shan , Zhu Jun , Yao Hua
Published: April 2018

Background. Despite a rapid popular of early onset type 2 diabetes (defined as diagnosis at <40 years old) recently, there is a lack of studies on this population in economically undeveloped area. We aimed to investigate the risk factors of macrovascular complications in the early onset T2DM patients in Xinjiang, China. Methods. A cross-sectional survey of 1736 consecutive patients with T2DM was conducted. Macrovascular complications and risk factors were documented. Another nondiabetic population matched with age and sex was as a control group. Logistic regression analysis was performed to obtain odds ratios (OR) for macrovascular complications in early and late onset T2DM, respectively. Results. The final analysis consisted of 1036 late onset and 219 early onset T2DM patients. The mean HbA1c in the early onset group was higher than that in the late onset group (9.1 ± 2.4% versus 8.3 ± 2.2%, P=0.039) despite a higher proportion of patients in the early onset group receiving insulin treatment (73.1% versus 58.7%, P<0.001). Compared to the control, early onset patients had higher blood pressure and worse lipid profiles (all P<0.01). More than half of the early onset T2DM patients already had macro- and microvascular complications, despite of their young age (39.5 ± 10.8) and short DM duration (6.6 ± 8.0). In the early onset group, women had a ~3-fold hazard of atherosclerotic plaques compared with men (OR 3.22, 95% CI 1.53–6.78). Conclusions. Patients with early onset T2DM have worse glycemic control and higher burden of atherogenic risk factors. The prevalence of macro- and microvascular complications is astonishingly high in these young adults with T2DM. Moreover, young women with T2DM are more susceptible to cardiovascular complications than their male counterpart.
Nutcracker Cuboid Fracture: A Case Report and Review
Authors: Lucerna Alan , Espinosa James , Butler Nicholas , Wenke Ashley , Caltabiano Nicole
Published: April 2018

Here we report the case of a 20-year-old female restrained driver who presented to the emergency department (ED) after a motor vehicle accident. She sustained an isolated fracture of her left cuboid, consistent with a nutcracker cuboid fracture. A cuboid fracture is considered rare. It is even more uncommon for a cuboid fracture to occur in isolation, without other associated injuries to the foot. We discuss the mechanism, relevant anatomy, diagnosis, and principles of treatment of the nutcracker cuboid fracture.
Optimum Design of Braced Steel Space Frames including Soil‐Structure Interaction via Teaching‐Learning‐Based Optimization and Harmony Search Algorithms
Authors: Daloglu Ayse T. , Artar Musa , Ozgan Korhan , Karakas Ali İ.
Published: April 2018

Optimum design of braced steel space frames including soil‐structure interaction is studied by using harmony search (HS) and teaching‐learning‐based optimization (TLBO) algorithms. A three‐parameter elastic foundation model is used to incorporate the soil‐structure interaction effect. A 10‐storey braced steel space frame example taken from literature is investigated according to four different bracing types for the cases with/without soil‐structure interaction. X, V, Z, and eccentric V‐shaped bracing types are considered in the study. Optimum solutions of examples are carried out by a computer program coded in MATLAB interacting with SAP2000‐OAPI for two‐way data exchange. The stress constraints according to AISC‐ASD (American Institute of Steel Construction‐Allowable Stress Design), maximum lateral displacement constraints, interstorey drift constraints, and beam‐to‐column connection constraints are taken into consideration in the optimum design process. The parameters of the foundation model are calculated depending on soil surface displacements by using an iterative approach. The results obtained in the study show that bracing types and soil‐structure interaction play very important roles in the optimum design of steel space frames. Finally, the techniques used in the optimum design seem to be quite suitable for practical applications.
The Numerical Simulation of Hard Rocks for Tunnelling Purposes at Great Depths: A Comparison between the Hybrid FDEM Method and Continuous Techniques
Authors: Vlachopoulos Nicholas , Vazaios Ioannis
Published: April 2018

Tunnelling processes lead to stress changes surrounding an underground opening resulting in the disturbance and potential damage of the surrounding ground. Especially, when it comes to hard rocks at great depths, the rockmass is more likely to respond in a brittle manner during the excavation. Continuum numerical modelling and discontinuum techniques have been employed in order to capture the complex nature of fracture initiation and propagation at low‐confinement conditions surrounding an underground opening. In the present study, the hybrid finite‐discrete element method (FDEM) is used and compared to techniques using the finite element method (FEM), in order to investigate the efficiency of these methods in simulating brittle fracturing. The numerical models are calibrated based on data and observations from the Underground Research Laboratory (URL) Test Tunnel, located in Manitoba, Canada. Following the comparison of these models, additional analyses are performed by integrating discrete fracture network (DFN) geometries in order to examine the effect of the explicit simulation of joints in brittle rockmasses. The results show that in both cases, the FDEM method is more capable of capturing the highly damaged zone (HDZ) and the excavation damaged zone (EDZ) compared to results of continuum numerical techniques in such excavations.
Investigation of Cement‐Emulsified Asphalt in Plastic Concrete
Authors: Yan Xiaohu , Wang Zaiqin , Rao Meijuan , Li Mingxia
Published: April 2018

The mechanical, mesodamage, and the microproperties of cement‐emulsified asphalt concrete have been investigated by computed tomography (CT), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TG) in this work. Emulsified asphalt delayed the hydration of cement, making the early compressive strength of concrete develop slowly. However, the concrete compressive strength increased rapidly with the demulsification of emulsified asphalt. The damage stages of condense, expansion of volume, rapid crack propagation, and damage by real‐time scanning have been observed. The CT mean value of the place near the lower end face suffered a larger decline but a smaller decline to the upper part of the sample. The evolution of concrete suffering damage to failure is a gradual development process, and no sharp expansion of brittle failure. The unhydrated cement, incorporation asphalt, fibrous C–S–H gel, CH, needle‐shaped ettringite, and other hydration products were interwoven to constitute emulsified asphalt‐cement paste, forming a spatial structure.
Clinical Report of Probable Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome in Pregnancy
Authors: Hakman Eryk , Mikhael Sasha
Published: April 2018

Background. Catastrophic APS (CAPS) is a rare but life-threatening form of APS defined as multiorgan thrombosis affecting a minimum of three organs with confirmation by histopathology of small vessel occlusions in at least one organ or tissue. The development of CAPS in pregnancy poses many diagnostic challenges as a result of its broad range of clinical presentations and its overlap with other obstetric complications and microangiopathic diseases. Because of the high associated mortality rate, prompt recognition and treatment are paramount. Case. A twenty-five-year-old G3P0111 with a history of multiple thromboembolisms presented at 21 weeks and 3 days of gestation with complaints of right upper quadrant pain, visual disturbances, headache, and syncopal episodes. Laboratory evaluation demonstrated microangiopathic disease with hemolysis (confirmed on peripheral smear), elevated liver enzymes, and abnormal 24-hour urine protein with vital signs within the normal range. Presence of significantly elevated antiphospholipid antibodies was noted, facilitating the diagnosis of probable CAPS. Proper workup was achieved based on clinical suspicion, allowing immediate and appropriate management. Conclusion. CAPS is a life-threatening condition rarely seen in pregnancy making early recognition difficult. A low threshold to initiate urgent and aggressive treatment should be maintained to minimize the risk of adverse outcomes.
Genetic Performance of the Semidwarfing Allele sd1 Derived from a Japonica Rice Cultivar and Minimum Requirements to Detect Its Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism by MiSeq Whole-Genome Sequencing
Authors: Tomita Motonori , Ishii Kazuo
Published: April 2018

The influence of the semidwarfing gene sd1 derived from the rice cultivar Jukkoku (Jukkoku_sd1) and IR8 (IR8_sd1), which contributed to the Green Revolution, d60 from Hokuriku 100, as well as the combination of sd1 and d60 (Jukkoku_sd1 plus d60 and IR8_sd1 plus d60), was investigated using isogenic lines raised by backcrossing with the cultivar Koshihikari. The isogenic lines carrying Jukkoku_sd1, IR8_sd1, d60, Jukkoku_sd1 plus d60, and IR8_sd1 plus d60 had considerably shorter culm lengths than Koshihikari by 19.2%, 22.8%, 26.0%, 45.1%, and 43.4%, respectively. The sd1 plus d60 lines showed additively reduced culms, indicating that the function of d60 was different from sd1. In contrast to the culm reduction, Jukkoku_sd1 showed productive merit with a panicle length of 2.5% greater than the origin. MiSeq next-generation sequencer was used to optimize a minimum scale to detect Jukkoku_sd1 in practical breeding. Mapping with the reference genome of Nipponbare gained the average depths of Koshihikari Jukkoku_sd1 and Koshihikari being 9.17 and 7.29, respectively. Comparing the vcf files of the entire genomes of Koshihikari Jukkoku_sd1 and the virtual Koshihikari revealed a G to T SNP at position 38,382,746 in the sd1 locus on chromosome 1 of Koshihikari, causing a loss-of-function mutation of GA20-oxidase.
MicroRNA-22 Promotes Renal Tubulointerstitial Fibrosis by Targeting PTEN and Suppressing Autophagy in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Zhang Yingying , Zhao Siqi , Wu Depei , Liu Xingmei , Shi Mingjun , Wang Yuanyuan , Zhang Fan , Ding Jing , Xiao Ying , Guo Bing
Published: April 2018

Renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis (TIF) is a major feature of diabetic nephropathy (DN). There is increasing evidence demonstrating that microRNAs act as key players in the regulation of autophagy and are involved in DN. However, the exact link among microRNAs, autophagy, and TIF in DN is largely unknown. In this study, our results showed that TIF was observed in DN rats together with obvious autophagy suppression. Moreover, microRNA-22 (miR-22) was upregulated and associated with reduced expression of its target gene phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) in both the kidneys of DN rats and high glucose-cultured NRK-52E cells. Intriguingly, induction of autophagy by rapamycin antagonized high glucose-induced collagen IV (Col IV) and α-SMA expression. In addition, ectopic expression of miR-22 suppressed autophagic flux and induced the expression of Col IV and α-SMA, whereas the inhibition of endogenous miR-22 effectively relieved high glucose-induced autophagy suppression and the expression of Col IV and α-SMA in NRK-52E cells. Overexpression of PTEN protectively antagonized high glucose- and miR-22-induced autophagy suppression and the expression of Col IV. Therefore, our findings indicated that miR-22 may promote TIF by suppressing autophagy partially via targeting PTEN and represents a novel and promising therapeutic target for DN.
Brown Rot-Type Fungal Decomposition of Sorghum Bagasse: Variable Success and Mechanistic Implications
Authors: Presley Gerald N. , Ndimba Bongani K. , Schilling Jonathan S.
Published: April 2018

Sweet sorghum is a promising crop for a warming, drying African climate, and basic information is lacking on conversion pathways for its lignocellulosic residues (bagasse). Brown rot wood-decomposer fungi use carbohydrate-selective pathways that, when assessed on sorghum, a grass substrate, can yield information relevant to both plant biomass conversion and fungal biology. In testing sorghum decomposition by brown rot fungi (Gloeophyllum trabeum,Serpula lacrymans), we found thatG. trabeumreadily degraded sorghum, removing xylan prior to removing glucan.Serpula lacrymans, conversely, caused little decomposition. Ergosterol (fungal biomarker) and protein levels were similar for both fungi, butS. lacrymansproduced nearly 4x lower polysaccharide-degrading enzyme specific activity on sorghum thanG. trabeum, perhaps a symptom of starvation. Linking this information to genome comparisons including other brown rot fungi known to have a similar issue regarding decomposing grasses(Postia placenta, Fomitopsis pinicola)suggested that a lack of CE 1 feruloyl esterases as well as low xylanase activity inS. lacrymans(3x lower than inG. trabeum) may hinderS. lacrymans,P. placenta,andF. pinicolawhen degrading grass substrates. These results indicate variability in brown rot mechanisms, which may stem from a differing ability to degrade certain lignin-carbohydrate complexes.
Droplet Drying Patterns on Solid Substrates: From Hydrophilic to Superhydrophobic Contact to Levitating Drops
Authors: Tarafdar Sujata , Tarasevich Yuri Yu. , Dutta Choudhury Moutushi , Dutta Tapati , Zang Duyang
Published: April 2018

This review is devoted to the simple process of drying a multicomponent droplet of a complex fluid which may contain salt or other inclusions. These processes provide a fascinating subject for study. The explanation of the rich variety of patterns formed is not only an academic challenge but also a problem of practical importance, as applications are growing in medical diagnosis and improvement of coating/printing technology. The fundamental scientific problem is the study of the mechanism of micro- and nanoparticle self-organization in open systems. The specific fundamental problems to be solved, related to this system, are the investigation of the mass transfer processes, the formation and evolution of phase fronts, and the identification of mechanisms of pattern formation. The drops of liquid containing dissolved substances and suspended particles are assumed to be drying on a horizontal solid insoluble smooth substrate. The chemical composition and macroscopic properties of the complex fluid, the concentration and nature of the salt, the surface energy of the substrate, and the interaction between the fluid and substrate which determines the wetting all affect the final morphology of the dried film. The range of our study encompasses the fully wetting case with zero contact angle between the fluid and substrate to the case where the drop is levitated in space, so there is no contact with a substrate and angle of contact can be considered as 180°.
The Value of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cao Yantian , Zhang Bangjie , Wu Yuanyuan , Wang Qingzhi , Wang Jie , Shen Fangfang
Published: April 2018

Background and Aims. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has challenged the traditional management of ulcerative colitis (UC) in recent years, while it remained controversial. We aimed to provide a systematic protocol of FMT treatment on UC. Methods. Studies reporting on FMT treatment in UC patients were performed. A fixed-effect model was used to assess the efficacy of FMT. Results. Eighteen studies were enrolled (n=446). A pooled proportion of patients who received FMT had a significant efficacy compared to the placebo group (odds ratio (OR): 2.73, P=0.002) with a low risk of heterogeneity (P=0.59, I2=0%). The Mayo score decreased to 5 points in a state of mild–moderate activity after FMT treatment, and the optimal range of the Mayo score baseline was 6–9 for FMT administration. Then, the baseline of the Shannon diversity index (SDI) had a negative correlation with the clinical response rate (R=−0.992, P=0.08) or remission rate (R=−0.998, P=0.036), and the optimal diversity of bacteria was at 7 days to one month. Moreover, the colonoscopy delivery and unrelated fecal donor had slight superiorities of FMT treatment. Conclusion. FMT treatment had a higher efficacy and shorter time-point of early assessment of effectiveness on UC patients compared to traditional therapies. And the optimal FMT delivery and donor were colonoscopy delivery and unrelated donor in clinical practice.
Adult Height after Growth Hormone Treatment at Pubertal Onset in Short Adolescents Born Small for Gestational Age: Results from a Belgian Registry-Based Study
Authors: Thomas M. , Beckers D. , Brachet C. , Dotremont H. , Lebrethon M.-C. , Lysy P. , Massa G. , Reynaert N. , Rooman R. , van der Straaten S. , Roelants M. , De Schepper J.
Published: April 2018

Objectives. Information on the efficacy of GH treatment in short SGA children starting their treatment in adolescence is limited. Therefore, adult height (AH), total height gain, and pubertal height gain were evaluated in short SGA children who started GH treatment at pubertal onset. Patient and Methods. Growth data of 47 short SGA adolescents (22 boys) who started GH treatment at pubertal onset (PUB group) were compared with results from 27 short SGA patients (11 boys) who started GH therapy at least 1 year before pubertal onset (PrePUB group). Results. The PUB group achieved a mean (±SD) total height gain of 0.8 ± 0.7 SDS and an AH of −2.5 ± 0.7 SDS after 4.1 ± 1.1 years of GH treatment with a dosage of 41.8 ± 8.4 μg/kg/day. These results were comparable with those in the PrePUB group, which was treated for a longer duration (5.8 ± 2.1 years), resulting in a total height gain of 1.1 ± 0.7 SDS and an AH of −2.1 ± 1.0 SDS. Multiple regression analysis showed a significantly lower height gain in pubertal patients, females, and patients weighing less at start of GH treatment. An AH above −2 SDS and above the parent-specific lower limit of height was, respectively, reached in 28% and 70% of PUB and 44% and 67% of PrePUB patients (NS). AH SDS was positively correlated with the height SDS at start of GH. Conclusions. Short SGA adolescents starting GH therapy at an early pubertal stage have a modest and variable height gain. A normal AH can be expected in one third of the patients, especially in those with a smaller height deficit at onset of GH treatment.
Metallurgical and Stress State Factors Which Affect the Creep and Fracture Behavior of 9% Cr Steels
Authors: Parker Jonathan , Siefert John
Published: April 2018

EPRI‐supported research has identified critical material information regarding the factors affecting the performance of creep strength‐enhanced ferritic steels, in general, and Grade 91 steel, in particular. EPRI recommendations emphasize that a five‐point, integrated strategy should be used for the effective life management of components fabricated from tempered martensitic steels. This integration promotes a balanced use of resources which, when properly focused, reduces uncertainty regarding creep and fracture behavior. Tighter control of processes from steel making, steel processing, and heat treatment ensures that alloys with deficient properties never enter service. One cornerstone of this proactive approach is the definition of ‘Metallurgical Risk’ which links the presence of inclusions and trace elements to the susceptibility for creep damage. The improved confidence in the high temperature performance of CSEF steel components promotes reliability, increases efficiency, and minimizes the risk of component fracture.
Atorvastatin Downregulates In Vitro Methyl Methanesulfonate and Cyclophosphamide Alkylation‐Mediated Cellular and DNA Injuries
Authors: Araujo-Lima Carlos F. , Christoni Larissa S. A. , Justo Graça , Soeiro Maria N. C. , Aiub Claudia A. F. , Felzenszwalb Israel
Published: April 2018

Statins are 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A (HMG‐CoA) reductase inhibitors, and this class of drugs has been studied as protective agents against DNA damages. Alkylating agents (AAs) are able to induce alkylation in macromolecules, causing DNA damage, as DNA methylation. Our objective was to evaluate atorvastatin (AVA) antimutagenic, cytoprotective, and antigenotoxic potentials against DNA lesions caused by AA. AVA chemopreventive ability was evaluated using antimutagenicity assays (Salmonella/microsome assay), cytotoxicity, cell cycle, and genotoxicity assays in HepG2 cells. The cells were cotreated with AVA and the AA methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) or cyclophosphamide (CPA). Our datum showed that AVA reduces the alkylation‐mediated DNA damage in different in vitro experimental models. Cytoprotection of AVA at low doses (0.1–1.0 μM) was observed after 24 h of cotreatment with MMS or CPA at their LC50, causing an increase in HepG2 survival rates. After all, AVA at 10 μM and 25 μM had decreased effect in micronucleus formation in HepG2 cells and restored cell cycle alterations induced by MMS and CPA. This study supports the hypothesis that statins can be chemopreventive agents, acting as antimutagenic, antigenotoxic, and cytoprotective components, specifically against alkylating agents of DNA.
Predictive Analysis for the Thermal Diffusion of the Plasma‐Assisted Machining of Superalloy Inconel‐718 Based on Exponential Smoothing
Authors: Shao-Hsien Chen , Tsai Kun-Tan
Published: April 2018

Nickel base and titanium base materials have been widely applied to engines in aerospace industry, and these engines are essential components of airplanes. The machining characteristics of aerospace materials may cause machining cutters to be worn down in a short time and thus reduce the accuracy of processing. The plasma‐assisted machining adopted in the research is a kind of the complex machining method. In the cases of nickel base and titanium base alloys, the method can heat workpieces in an extremely short duration to soften the materials for the ease of cutting so that the cutting force, cutter wear, and machining cost will all be reduced. The research adopted plasma heating to soften parts of the materials and aimed to explore the heating of nickel base alloy. The temperature variation of the materials was investigated and measured by adjusting the current and feed velocity. Moreover, Inconel‐718 superalloy was adopted for the comparison with nickel base alloy for the observation of the influence and change brought by heat, and the method of exponential smoothing was adopted to conduct the prediction and analysis of thermal diffusion for understanding the influence and change brought by electric current on nickel base materials. Finally, given the current from 20 A to 80 A and feed velocity from 1,000 mm/min to 3,000 mm/min, the influence of thermal diffusion was investigated and the related model was built.
Molecular Diagnosis of Diffuse Gliomas through Sequencing of Cell-Free Circulating Tumor DNA from Cerebrospinal Fluid
Authors: Martínez-Ricarte Francisco , Mayor Regina , Martínez-Sáez Elena , Rubio-Pérez Carlota , Pineda Estela , Cordero Esteban , Cicuéndez Marta , Poca Maria A. , López-Bigas Nuria , Ramon y Cajal Santiago , Vieito María , Carles Joan , Tabernero Josep , Vivancos Ana , Gallego Soledad , Graus Francesc , Sahuquillo Juan , Seoane Joan
Published: April 2018

Purpose: Diffuse gliomas are the most common primary tumor of the brain and include different subtypes with diverse prognosis. The genomic characterization of diffuse gliomas facilitates their molecular diagnosis. The anatomical localization of diffuse gliomas complicates access to tumor specimens for diagnosis, in some cases incurring high-risk surgical procedures and stereotactic biopsies. Recently, cell-free circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has been identified in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with brain malignancies.

Experimental Design: We performed an analysis of IDH1, IDH2, TP53, TERT, ATRX, H3F3A, and HIST1H3B gene mutations in two tumor cohorts from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) including 648 diffuse gliomas. We also performed targeted exome sequencing and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) analysis of these seven genes in 20 clinical tumor specimens and CSF from glioma patients and performed a histopathologic characterization of the tumors.

Results: Analysis of the mutational status of the IDH1, IDH2, TP53, TERT, ATRX, H3F3A, and HIST1H3B genes allowed the classification of 79% of the 648 diffuse gliomas analyzed, into IDH-wild-type glioblastoma, IDH-mutant glioblastoma/diffuse astrocytoma and oligodendroglioma, each subtype exhibiting diverse median overall survival (1.1, 6.7, and 11.2 years, respectively). We developed a sequencing platform to simultaneously and rapidly genotype these seven genes in CSF ctDNA allowing the subclassification of diffuse gliomas.

Conclusions: The genomic analysis of IDH1, IDH2, TP53, ATRX, TERT, H3F3A, and HIST1H3B gene mutations in CSF ctDNA facilitates the diagnosis of diffuse gliomas in a timely manner to support the surgical and clinical management of these patients. Clin Cancer Res; 24(12); 2812–9. ©2018 AACR.
ZIP4 Promotes Pancreatic Cancer Progression by Repressing ZO-1 and Claudin-1 through a ZEB1-Dependent Transcriptional Mechanism
Authors: Liu Mingyang , Yang Jingxuan , Zhang Yuqing , Zhou Zhijun , Cui Xiaobo , Zhang Liyang , Fung Kar-Ming , Zheng Wei , Allard Felicia D. , Yee Eric U. , Ding Kai , Wu Huanwen , Liang Zhiyong , Zheng Lei , Fernandez-Zapico Martin E. , Li Yi-Ping , Bronze Michael S. , Morris Katherine T. , Postier Russell G. , Houchen Courtney W. , Yang Jing , Li Min
Published: April 2018

Purpose: ZIP4 is overexpressed in human pancreatic cancer and promotes tumor growth. However, little is known about the role of ZIP4 in advanced stages of this dismal neoplasm. Our goal is to study the underlying mechanism and define a novel signaling pathway controlled by ZIP4-modulating pancreatic tumor metastasis.

Experimental Design: The expression of ZIP4, ZO-1, claudin-1, and ZEB1 in human pancreatic cancer tissues, genetically engineered mouse model, xenograft tumor model, and pancreatic cancer cell lines were examined, and the correlations between ZIP4 and those markers were also analyzed. Functional analysis of ZO-1, claudin-1, and ZEB1 was investigated in pancreatic cancer cell lines and orthotopic xenografts.

Results: Genetic inactivation of ZIP4 inhibited migration and invasion in pancreatic cancer and increased the expression of ZO-1 and claudin-1. Conversely, overexpression of ZIP4 promoted migration and invasion and increased the expression of ZEB1 and downregulation of the aforementioned epithelial genes. ZIP4 downregulation of ZO-1 and claudin-1 requires the transcriptional repressor ZEB1. Further analysis demonstrated that ZIP4-mediated repression of ZO-1 and claudin-1 leads to upregulation of their targets FAK and Paxillin. Silencing of ZIP4 caused reduced phosphorylation of FAK and Paxillin, which was rescued by simultaneous blocking of ZO-1 or claudin-1. Clinically, we demonstrated that ZIP4 positively correlates with the levels of ZEB1 and inversely associates with the expression of ZO-1 and claudin-1.

Conclusions: These findings suggest a novel pathway activated by ZIP4-controlling pancreatic cancer invasiveness and metastasis, which could serve as a new therapeutic target for this devastating disease. Clin Cancer Res; 24(13); 3186–96. ©2018 AACR.
Acute In-Stent Thrombosis after Carotid Angioplasty and Stenting: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Hu Wei , Wang Li , Wang GuoPing
Published: April 2018

Background: Based on the results of a recent randomized controlled trial, carotid artery stenting (CAS) was regarded as a relatively safe, less invasive treatment of internal carotid artery stenosis. However, cerebral thromboembolic events are the most common complications of CAS. Especially acute stent thrombosis following CAS will be fatal without prompt diagnosis and revascularization. Case Report: We report a case of acute stent thrombosis in whom carotid revascularization was performed successfully via arterial thrombolysis and balloon postdilation. A 79-year-old man with hypertension was hospitalized for an episode of transient ischemic attack. Computed tomography angiography revealed subtotal occlusion in the left carotid artery. Aspirin (100 mg) and clopidogrel (75 mg) were administered daily for 5 days before the procedure. CAS was performed under local anesthesia. The first postprocedural angiogram showed the stent looked good. However, a repeat angiogram showed in-stent thrombosis 2 min after withdrawal of the cerebral protection filter. Interestingly, the patient presented no neurologic deficit. After an additional 2,000 U of heparin had been administered intravenously, a microcatheter (SL-14; Boston Scientific, USA) was positioned to the in-stent thrombosis. Next, a total dose of 10 mg of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator was injected into the thrombus via the microcatheter within 10 min, which led to partial recanalization with antegrade flow. However, complete occlusion of the lesion occurred 5 min later. Under the guidance of angiography roadmap, a protection filter (Emboshield NAV6; Abbott Vascular, USA) was deployed at the distal part of the stent and redilation of the stent was performed with a 5 × 30 mm balloon (Viatrac 14 Plus; Abbott Vascular) at 14 atm. Finally, carotid revascularization was performed successfully, proven by postprocedural angiogram. Conclusion: Acute carotid stent thrombosis (ACST) can have devastating effects on the survival of the patient. For ACST when the stent does not fully adhere to the blood vessel, a mechanical approach should be a feasible solution to the problem.
HBV Facilitated Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells Proliferation by Up-Regulating Angiogenin Expression Through IL-6
Authors: Zhou Xiaotang , Yang Fan , Yang Ying , Hu Ying , Liu Weixia , Huang Chunhong , Li Shuping , Chen Zhi
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection are at a high risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we aim to investigate the roles of HBV on angiogenin (ANG), as well as the effects on cell proliferation in presence of ANG down-regulation. Methods: Serum ANG was determined by ELISA. The expression of ANG mRNA and protein in HCC cell lines with or without HBV/HBx were determined. Western blot and ELISA were conducted to determine the effects of HBV/HBx on IL-6 expression. The role of IL-6 on ANG was evaluated by IL-6 recombinant protein or IL-6 neutralizing antibody. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the nuclear translocation of ANG. MTT was performed to evaluate the relative inhibition ratio. Result: In vivo experiments showed elevation of serum ANG in patients infected with HBV. In vitro experiments showed HBV and HBx contributed to the transcription and translation of ANG. ANG expression showed increase after IL-6 stimulation, and ANG protein decreased in the presence of IL-6 blocking with its antibody. HBV promoted nuclear translocation of ANG. Inhibiting ANG expression or blocking of nuclear transfer of ANG attenuated the 45S rRNA synthesis and cell proliferation. Conclusion: HBV and HBx protein can increase the level of ANG through IL-6. HBV and HBx contributed to the nuclear translocation of ANG. Cell proliferation was inhibited after inhibiting the expression or nuclear transfer of ANG.
Tumor-Derived Exosomal Long Noncoding RNAs as Promising Diagnostic Biomarkers for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wang Yu-Hui , Ji Jia , Wang Bi-Cheng , Chen Hao , Yang Zhong-Hua , Wang Kun , Luo Chang-Liang , Zhang Wu-Wen , Wang Fu-Bing , Zhang Xiao-Lian
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Exosomal circulating long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in blood are emerging as clinically useful and non-invasive biomarkers for tumor diagnosis. However, normal cells can also secrete exosomes, so it is a prerequisite to obtain tumor-derived exosomes for better understanding of their diagnostic impacts in cancer. In this study, a dual-antibody-functionalized immunoaffinity system was established to isolate exosomes and investigate their lncRNAs expression pattern and clinical significance in prostate cancer (PCa). Methods: A commercially available kit was used to isolate total exosomes, which were then purified by a dual-antibody-functionalized immunoaffinity system. RT-qPCR was performed to detect the expression of exosomal lncRNAs. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted to assess the diagnostic value. Results: Expression levels of two lncRNAs in tumor-derived exosomes were significantly higher than those in total exosomes. The levels of SAP30L-AS1 were upregulated in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and SChLAP1 levels were significantly higher in PCa than in BPH and healthy individuals. The area under the ROC curve indicated that SAP30L-AS1 and SChLAP1 had adequate diagnostic value to distinguish PCa from controls. Two lncRNAs separately combined with prostate specific antigen (PSA) possessed a moderate ability for discrimination. SAP30L-AS1 expression level was related to PSA values and tumor invasion. SChLAP1 expression was significantly higher in patients with higher Gleason scores, and was also effective in differentiating between BPH and PCa when the concentration of PSA was in the gray zone. Conclusion: The isolation of tumor-derived exosomes by dual-antibody-functionalized immunoaffinity systems and detection of their lncRNAs in plasma may lead to the identification of suitable biomarkers, with potential diagnostic utility.
A lei de Marsh do crescimento cerebral e a ideia de progresso biológico na evolução
Authors: Faria Felipe
Published: April 2018

A utilização de uma lei evolutiva deve ocorrer em função de seu valor heurístico na composição de sequências filogenéticas. Esta era uma das características da lei do crescimento cerebral, proposta por O. C. Marsh (1831-1899), que amiúde levava à constatação da existência de uma tendência a um aumento de complexidade corporal ocorrente durante o processo evolutivo. Diversas críticas foram então feitas, frequentemente fundamentadas na impossibilidade de que uma tendência pudesse operar no processo evolutivo que tinha como mecanismo a seleção natural, a qual, por sua vez, baseava-se na oferta de variação ocorrida ao acaso. Mesmo assim, a lei de Marsh permaneceu sendo utilizada devido ao seu potencial explicativo e, de certo modo, preditivo.
A new species of Helicoön from Taiwan
Authors: GOH TEIK-KHIANG , KUO CHANG-HSIN
Published: April 2018

Helicoön subglobosum sp. nov. from a decaying wood submerged in a freshwater stream at Juchi Town of Alishan area, Chiayi County, Taiwan, is described and illustrated with light and scanning electron micrographs. It differs from previously described species of Helicoön in having large subglobose conidia which are borne singly on very short conidiophores. The phylogenetic relationship of H. subglobosum and related taxa were sought by comparing the sequences of the ITS barcode and partial large subunit regions of the nuc rDNA. A synopsis of the 18 accepted species and a dichotomous key to the genus are given.