bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Promoting Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells by Altering the Expression of Exosomal miRNA
Authors: Yang Shude , Guo Shu , Tong Shuang , Sun Xu
Published: July 2019

Human adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) can release exosomes; however, their specific functions remain elusive. In this study, we verified that exosomes derived from osteogenically differentiated ADSCs can promote osteogenic differentiation of ADSCs. Furthermore, in order to investigate the importance of exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) in osteogenic differentiation of ADSCs, we used microarray assays to analyze the expression profiles of exosomal miRNAs derived from undifferentiated as well as osteogenically differentiated ADSCs; 201 miRNAs were upregulated and 33 miRNAs were downregulated between the two types of exosomes. Additionally, bioinformatic analyses, which included gene ontology analyses, pathway analysis, and miRNA-mRNA-network investigations, were performed. The results of these analyses revealed that the differentially expressed exosomal miRNAs participate in multiple biological processes, such as gene expression, synthesis of biomolecules, cell development, differentiation, and signal transduction, among others. Moreover, we found that these differentially expressed exosomal miRNAs connect osteogenic differentiation to processes such as axon guidance, MAPK signaling, and Wnt signaling. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to identify and characterize exosomal miRNAs derived from osteogenically differentiated ADSCs. This study confirms that alterations in the expression of exosomal miRNAs can promote osteogenic differentiation of ADSCs, which also provides the foundation for further research on the regulatory functions of exosomal miRNAs in the context of ADSC osteogenesis.
Structural Analysis of Lunar Regolith from LPR CH-2 Data Based on Adaptive f-x E MD: LPR Data Processed by Adaptive f-x EMD
Authors: Hu Bin , Wang Deli , Zhang Ling , Zeng Zhaofa
Published: July 2019

The Lunar Penetrating Radar (LPR) is one of the important scientific payloads in China’s Chang’E-3 (CE-3) to image within 100 m below the lunar surface. The acquired LPR data is significant for the research of lunar geological structure. Based on the sedimentary mechanism of lunar regolith, the regolith contains many rocks with different sizes. These local anomalies appear as diffraction in LPR data, which reduces the data quality and limits the structural analysis of lunar regolith. According to the kinematics characteristics of rock caused diffraction, we transform these problems to a problem of steep dip decreasing. To reach this goal, we adopt a data preprocessing workflow to improve the quality of the radar image, firstly. Then, a dip filter based on adaptive f-x empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is proposed to extract the rocks in the regolith and the corresponding removed IMF map indicates the degree of rock enrichment and highlights regolith-basement interface. Both simulation and LPR CH-2 data present a great performance. Finally, according to the processed result, we locate the position of each rock and highlight the contact interface of regolith and the basement rock.
Gradient Boosted Trees Predictive Models for Surface Roughness in High‐Speed Milling in the Steel and Aluminum Metalworking Industry
Authors: Flores Victor , Keith Brian
Published: July 2019

High‐speed machining is a technique that maintains a high interest in the manufacture of metal parts for the excellent results it provides, both in surface finish and in economic benefits. In the industry, the tendency is to incorporate data management and analysis techniques to generate information that helps improve the surface roughness results in machining. A good alternative to improve the surface quality results in the manufacture of metal parts is using predictive models of the surface roughness. In this document, we present work done with experimental data obtained from two high‐speed machining (HSM) machines with different types of tools and cutting conditions, conducted under an experimental design with interest in three of factors commonly studied to generate surface roughness models: tool characteristics, cutting conditions, and characteristics of the machined material. Steel and aluminum alloys were used in the experimentation. The results are contrasted with prior experiences that use the same experimental design but with different soft computing techniques and they are also contrasted with the results of similar previous works. Our results show accuracies ranging from 61.54% to 88.51% on the datasets, which are competitive results when compared with the other approaches. We also find the axial cut‐depth is the most influential feature for the slots datasets and the hardness and diameter of the cutting tool are the most influential features for the geometries datasets.
Evaluation of an AI-Powered Lung Nodule Algorithm for Detection and 3D Segmentation of Primary Lung Tumors
Authors: Weikert Thomas , Akinci D’Antonoli Tugba , Bremerich Jens , Stieltjes Bram , Sommer Gregor , Sauter Alexander W.
Published: July 2019

Automated detection and segmentation is a prerequisite for the deployment of image-based secondary analyses, especially for lung tumors. However, currently only applications for lung nodules ≤3 cm exist. Therefore, we tested the performance of a fully automated AI-based lung nodule algorithm for detection and 3D segmentation of primary lung tumors in the context of tumor staging using the CT component of FDG-PET/CT and including all T-categories (T1–T4). FDG-PET/CTs of 320 patients with histologically confirmed lung cancer performed between 01/2010 and 06/2016 were selected. First, the main primary lung tumor within each scan was manually segmented using the CT component of the PET/CTs as reference. Second, the CT series were transferred to a platform with AI-based algorithms trained on chest CTs for detection and segmentation of lung nodules. Detection and segmentation performance were analyzed. Factors influencing detection rates were explored with binominal logistic regression and radiomic analysis. We also processed 94 PET/CTs negative for pulmonary nodules to investigate frequency and reasons of false-positive findings. The ratio of detected tumors was best in the T1-category (90.4%) and decreased continuously: T2 (70.8%), T3 (29.4%), and T4 (8.8%). Tumor contact with the pleura was a strong predictor of misdetection. Segmentation performance was excellent for T1 tumors (r = 0.908, p<0.001) and tumors without pleural contact (r = 0.971, p<0.001). Volumes of larger tumors were systematically underestimated. There were 0.41 false-positive findings per exam. The algorithm tested facilitates a reliable detection and 3D segmentation of T1/T2 lung tumors on FDG-PET/CTs. The detection and segmentation of more advanced lung tumors is currently imprecise due to the conception of the algorithm for lung nodules <3 cm. Future efforts should therefore focus on this collective to facilitate segmentation of all tumor types and sizes to bridge the gap between CAD applications for screening and staging of lung cancer.
Modeling Overlapped Mutual Funds’ Portfolios: A Bipartite Network Approach
Authors: Lavin Jaime F. , Valle Mauricio A. , Magner Nicolás S.
Published: July 2019

This paper studies the topology of the Chilean mutual fund industry using networks methods. With the physical positions of the local equity portfolios managed during 2003.01‐2017.4, we analyze their connectivity structure in both the mutual funds’ bipartite network and their one‐mode projection. We estimate network measures to examine the potential effects on the topology arising from changes in the industrial environment and changes in the mutual funds’ investment strategies in their overlapped portfolios. Our main results show that changes in the bipartite network and its one‐mode projection are correlated with variables related to funds’ investment strategies and with industry‐specific variables. In consequence, these elements are a new potential of disturbance in the financial network conformed by stocks and mutual funds. We contribute to the existing literature, improving the understanding of the aggregate behavior of a financial sector which despite its economic importance has attracted little attention from a systemic risk perspective.
Effects of Climate Finance on Risk Appraisal: A Study in the Southwestern Coast of Bangladesh
Authors: Hussain Firdaus Ara , Ahmad Mokbul Morshed
Published: July 2019

Utilising climate funds properly to reduce the impact of potential risks of climate change at the local level is essential for successful adaptation to climate change. Climate change has been disrupting the lives of millions of households along the coastal region of Bangladesh. The country has allocated support from its national funds and accessed international funds for the implementation of adaptation interventions. With the focus of the scientific community on climate finance mechanisms and governance at the global and the national level, there is a lacuna in empirical evidence of how climate finance affects risk appraisal and engagement in adaptation measures at the local level. This paper aims to examine how the support from climate finance affects risk appraisal in terms of the perceived probability and severity and the factors which influence risk appraisal. A field survey was conducted on 240 climate finance recipient households (CF HHs) and 120 nonclimate finance recipient households (non-CF HHs) in Galachipa Upazila of Patuakhali District in coastal Bangladesh. The results indicate that both CF and non-CF HHs experience a high probability of facing climatic events in the future; however, CF HHs anticipated a higher severity of impacts of climatic events on different dimensions of their households. With higher income and social capital, the overall risk appraisal decreases for CF HHs. CF HHs have higher engagement in adaptation measures and social groups and maintain alternative sources of income. Climate finance played a critical role in supporting households in understanding the risks that they were facing, assisting them in exploring as well as enhancing their engagement in adaptation options.
Random Fault Attacks on a Class of Stream Ciphers
Authors: Bartlett Harry , Dawson Ed , Qahur Al Mahri Hassan , Salam Md. Iftekhar , Simpson Leonie , Wong Kenneth Koon-Ho
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we show that stream ciphers with a particular form of ciphertext output function are vulnerable to differential fault attacks using random faults. The CAESAR competition candidates Tiaoxin-346 and AEGIS-128L both fall into this category, and we show that our attack can be used to recover the secret key of Tiaoxin-346 and the entire state of AEGIS-128L with practical complexity. In the case of AEGIS-128L, the attack can be applied in a ciphertext-only scenario. Our attacks are more practical than previous fault attacks on these ciphers, which assumed bit-flipping faults. Although we also consider other ways of mitigating our attacks, we recommend that cipher designers avoid the form of ciphertext output function that we have identified.
Motherwort Injection for Preventing Postpartum Hemorrhage in Women with Vaginal Delivery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Evidence
Authors: Yu Jiajie , Cai Yujia , Su Guanyue , Li Youping
Published: July 2019

Background. Motherwort injection, a common traditional Chinese medicine, is widely used for the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), which has been found to be potential benefit in clinical practice.Objectives. This study aimed to conduct a rigorous systematic review of randomized evidence to offer a comprehensive overview regarding the efficacy and safety of motherwort injection in maternal women with virginal delivery.Methods. We included all randomized controlled trials involving pregnant women in vaginal delivery comparing motherwort injection or combination of motherwort injection and oxytocin with oxytocin alone for preventing postpartum hemorrhage. Paired reviewers independently screened citations, assessed risk of bias, and extracted data. Random-effects model by Mantel-Haenszal method was applied to pool the data. Predefined subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were conducted to explore the heterogeneity and robustness of results. The GRADE approach was used to rate the quality of evidence.Main Results. 37 randomized controlled trials involving 7887 participants were included, all of which were at moderate to high risk of bias. Meta-analyses of eight trials showed no significant difference in blood loss and PPH events between oxytocin versus motherwort injection (very low quality). However, pooling of 29 trials suggested a reduced risk of blood loss (within 2 hours: MD -55.06mL, 95% CI -84.06 to -26.06; within 24 hours: MD -85.57 mL, 95% CI -94.26 to -76.88, very low quality), PPH events (RR 0.29, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.39, low quality), and adverse events (Peto OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.70, very low quality) in participants treated with motherwort injection and oxytocin versus oxytocin alone.Conclusions. The current evidence supports the suggestion that the additional use of motherwort injection on oxytocin had a preferable outcome. However, given that the evidence is not definitive with low quality, further careful designed and conducted randomized controlled trials in larger population are warranted to conform the effects.
Do Symptoms and Serum Calcium Levels Affect the Results of Surgical Treatment of Primary Hyperparathyroidism?
Authors: Yu QingAn , Liu KunPeng , Ma DaKun , Xie ChangMing , Wu YaoHua , Dai WenJie , Jiang HongChi
Published: July 2019

Introduction. The purpose of this study was to investigate the difference in surgical outcomes between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) and between patients with high serum calcium and those with normal blood calcium, as well as to explore the epidemiological trend of PHPT in northern China. Methods. Clinicopathologic data of 197 patients (50 men and 147 women) with PHPT who underwent surgery at the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University from 2008 to 2017 were analyzed. Changes in clinicopathology were compared among different subgroups of patients. Patients were categorized into subgroups based on serum calcium levels, whether or not they presented with symptoms, and admission time. Results. Of the total patients, 82.23% had hypercalcemic primary hyperparathyroidism (HCPHPT), 17.77% had normocalcemic primary hyperparathyroidism (NCPHPT), 45.18% had symptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism (SPHPT), and 54.82% had asymptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism (ASPHPT). Seventy-seven cases of PHPT involved thyroid nodules, with 22 confirmed as papillary thyroid carcinoma, and 29 confirmed as nodular goiter. There was no significant difference in the success rate of surgery, postoperative recurrence rate, and the symptoms of temporary hypocalcemia between the HCPHPT and NCPHPT groups, and between the SPHPT and ASPHPT groups. The incidence of PHPT has increased threefold since 2013. Conclusions. Symptoms and serum calcium levels did not affect the results of surgical treatment for PHPT. The incidence of PHPT in northern China is increasing. Moreover, PHPT manifestation has shifted from the symptomatic to the asymptomatic form. Thyroid surgery should be performed in PHPT patients with thyroid nodules.
A Gluten-Free Diet, Not an Appropriate Choice without a Medical Diagnosis
Authors: Diez-Sampedro Ana , Olenick Maria , Maltseva Tatayana , Flowers Monica
Published: July 2019

In the past, only people diagnosed with celiac disease, approximately 1% of the population, avoided gluten consumption through all their meals. However, popular media often now mistakenly present gluten-free foods as being a healthier choice, and more people have now concluded that gluten is a harmful part of the diet. A review of literature on gluten-free diets, gluten sensitivity, celiac disease, and attitudes toward gluten consumption was undertaken to examine the prevalence and consequences of adopting a gluten-free diet and to provide guidance to healthcare practitioners whose patients are now often adopting this diet without medical input. Aside from celiac disease, nonceliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) occurs in those persons in which gluten ingestion leads to symptomatic manifestations in the absence of celiac disease or wheat allergy but who report a remission of certain symptoms after removing gluten from their diet. However, it was been shown that a large percentage of people who claim NCGS do not feel those manifestations under a double-blind challenge to gluten. Moreover, some parents, believing that ingesting gluten is detrimental for their health, adopt gluten-free diets for their children. A review of existing data shows that there are detrimental effects to going gluten free, including loss of the dietary fiber, deficiencies in dietary minerals and vitamins, and potential heavy metal exposure. Healthcare practitioners should query patients about their dietary choices, and in cases of questionable adoption of gluten-free diet, patients and parents are educated about the detriments of a gluten-free diet, and in cases where patients continue to insist on gluten-free foods, referrals to nutritional counseling are warranted in order to minimize potential harm.
Conceptual Study on Recriticality Prevention Core Having Duplex Pellets with Neutron Absorber in Outer Core in a Fast Reactor
Authors: Wakabayashi Toshio , Takahashi Makoto , Takaki Naoyuki , Tachi Yoshiaki , Yano Mari
Published: July 2019

In a fast reactor, we evaluated a new core concept that prevents severe recriticality after whole-scale molten formation in a severe accident. A core concept in which Duplex pellets including neutron absorber are loaded in the outer core has been proposed. Analysis by the continuous energy model Monte Carlo code MVP using the JENDL-4.0 nuclear data library revealed that this fast reactor core has large negative reactivity due to fuel melting at the time of a severe accident, so that the core prevents recriticality. Regarding the core nuclear and thermal characteristics, the loading of Duplex pellets including neutron absorber in the outer core caused no significant differences from the normal core without Duplex pellets.
Postpartum Weight Retention and Cardiometabolic Risk among Saudi Women: A Follow-Up Study of RAHMA Subcohort
Authors: Wahabi Hayfaa A. , Fayed Amel A. , Tharkar Shabana , Esmaeil Samia A. , Bakhsh Hanadi
Published: July 2019

Objectives. This papers aims to investigate the association between different levels of postpartum weight retention (PPWR) and cardiometabolic risk among the Saudi women 12 months postpartum. Methods. This study is a follow-up of subgroup of cohort from Riyadh mother and baby multicenter cohort study. Clinical data were collected from participants 12 months after delivery and included current Body Mass Index (BMI), waist circumference, hip circumference, and blood pressure. In addition the following blood tests done were fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, and lipids profile to assess the participants’ cardiometabolic risks. The participants were categorized into three groups based on the level of PPWR: weight retention < 3kg; weight retention 3 to < 7kg; and weight retention ≥ 7kg. Subsequently, the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors was compared in the three groups to assess the association between different levels of PPWR and cardiometabolic risk factors. Logistic regression was used to test the effect of PPWR in the development of metabolic syndrome and Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) was calculated. Results. A total of 115 women participated in this study. Around 35% of the study population retained ≥ 7 kg of weight. The prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors, including metabolic syndrome (MetS), increases with the increase of PPWR (p<0.01). The prevalence of MetS is 13% with highest frequency in the group with the highest weight retention. The determinants developing MetS were prepregnancy weight; AOR (95% CI); 1.08 (1.02-1.14), P< 0.01, current BMI, AOR (95% CI); 1.30 (1.12-1.51), P< 0.01, and FBG during pregnancy, AOR (95% CI); and 4.82 (1.72-13.48), P < 0.01. Conclusion. Increased weight retention after delivery augments the rate of occurrence of cardiometabolic risk factors. Determinants of the development of MetS in postpartum Saudi women are increased prepregnancy weight, current BMI, and FBG during pregnancy.
Thyroglossal Duct Carcinoma Originating in the Hyoid Bone
Authors: Kunitomo Naoki , Fujii Hiroyuki , Fujita Akifumi , Hamano Yumiko , Takanosawa Minako , Sugimoto Hideharu
Published: July 2019

Thyroglossal duct (TGD) carcinoma is a rare malignant tumor arising from remnants of thyroid tissue or the wall of the duct and generally occurs along the anatomic course of the TGD. TGD carcinoma originating in the hyoid bone is extremely rare but can occur since the TGD penetrates the hyoid bone on rare occasions. This report describes the case of a 30-year-old man with TGD carcinoma originating in the hyoid bone. Computed tomography demonstrated a mass in the hyoid bone that expanded the cortical bone of the hyoid. The mass had a central solid component with calcification and a marginal cystic component. When we encounter a calcified mass in the hyoid bone, we should consider TGD carcinoma among the differential diagnoses.
Influence of Biostimulants on Important Traits ofZinnia elegansJacq. under Open Field Conditions
Authors: Saini Ishan , Aggarwal Ashok , Kaushik Prashant
Published: July 2019

The efficacy of microbial treatment on growth, yield, and nutrient uptake is very well acknowledged for field crops. However, the use of microbes forZinnia eleganshas rarely been exploited under field trials. Therefore, in this study, we have evaluated the efficacy of different microbial bioinoculants on sixteen morphological and nine biochemical traits ofZ.elegans. We used two arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) (Glomus mosseae(G) andAcaulospora laevis(A)) along withTrichoderma viride(T) andPseudomonas florescence(P) as five different treatments under open field conditions, in a randomized complete block design. There were significant differences for all of the traits studied. Treatment 5 (G + A + T + P) was noted as the best treatment for the improvement of morphological characters, whereas Treatment 4 (G + A + P) was most significant for the biochemical trait improvement inZ. elegans. Overall, this study provides useful insight into the bioinoculant treatment that can be applied to improve the yield and flower quality ofZ.elegansunder open field conditions.
Control Strategy of Constant‐Speed Air‐Conditioners Based on Virtual State of Charging Priority
Authors: Che Yanbo , Li Zheng , He Wei , Zhao Yuancheng , Zhang Ruiping
Published: July 2019

As typical thermostatically controlled loads (TCL) driven by constant‐speed compressor, constant‐speed air‐conditioners play important roles in demand‐side response for their abilities of energy conversion and storage. Their great potential for load regulation can be incorporated into power system scheduling through demand response. In view of their operating characteristics, a virtual energy storage (VES) model of thermostatically controlled loads with electrical and thermal parameters is established. This model is discretized and linearized to simplify calculation. By analyzing the control function and constraints of the VES model, the control strategy of VES of constant‐speed air‐conditioners load with virtual charging state priority is proposed. Example analysis shows that this strategy can solve and alleviate power shortage problem of the system by participating in demand response, which provides methodological support for constant‐speed compressor temperature‐control load to participate in the system operation.
Bailcalin Protects against Diabetic Cardiomyopathy through Keap1/Nrf2/AMPK-Mediated Antioxidative and Lipid-Lowering Effects
Authors: Li Ran , Liu Yuan , Shan Ying-guang , Gao Lu , Wang Fang , Qiu Chun-guang
Published: July 2019

Previous studies demonstrated that Bailcalin (BAI) prevented cardiac injuries under different disease models. Whether BAI protected against type 2 diabetes mellitus- (T2DM-) associated cardiomyopathy was investigated in this study. T2DM was established by the combination of streptozotocin injection and high-fat diet in mice. BAI was administered daily for 6 months. After evaluating cardiac functions, mice hearts were removed and processed for morphological, biochemical, and molecular mechanism analyses. Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCM) were isolated and treated with high glucose and palmitate (HG/Pal) for in vitro investigation. BAI significantly ameliorated T2DM-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, interstitial fibrosis, and lipid accumulation accompanied by markedly improved cardiac functions in diabetic mice. Mechanically, BAI restored decreased phosphorylation of AMPK and enhanced expression and nuclei translocation of Nrf2. In in vitro experiments, BAI also prevented NRCM from HG/Pal-induced apoptosis and oxidative stress injuries by increasing p-AMPK and Nrf2 accumulation. The means by which BAI restored p-AMPK seemed to be related to the antioxidative effects of Nrf2 after silencing AMPK or Nrf2 in NRCM. Furthermore, BAI regulated Nrf2 by inhibiting Nrf2 ubiquitination and consequent degradation mediated by Keap1. This study showed that BAI alleviated diabetes-associated cardiac dysfunction and cardiomyocyte injuries in vivo and in vitro via Keap1/Nrf2/AMPK-mediated antioxidation and lipid-lowering effects. BAI might be a potential adjuvant drug for diabetes cardiomyopathy treatment.
Moffett’s Solution Causes Significantly Greater Postoperative Throat Pain Compared to Cophenylcaine in Sinonasal Surgery
Authors: Ku Dominic , Vasan Kartik , Wong Eugene , Tseros Evan , Singh Narinder Pal
Published: July 2019

Aim. Preoperative decongestion with Moffett’s solution is routine practice in sinonasal procedures providing an ideal operative field. Anecdotally, it is related to postoperative throat pain, yet a quantitative relationship has not been established. We compare the incidence and severity of postoperative throat pain after application of Moffett’s solution against Cophenylcaine decongestion. Methodology. A total of thirty patients from two consultants were recruited. The intervention arm (twenty) was decongested with Moffett’s solution and the control arm (ten) with Cophenylcaine. The primary outcome was self-reported postoperative throat pain as measured by visual analogue scale (VAS) at 2 hours, 4 hours, 6 hours, and next morning. Results. There was a significantly higher VAS for throat pain in patients decongested with Moffett’s solution in the early postoperative period (2 hours p=0.03, 4 hours p=0.04). Conclusion. Moffett’s solution is associated with a greater severity of transient postoperative throat pain compared to topical Cophenylcaine. We recommend further studies to identify means to minimise this side effect. Clinical Trial Registration. This paper has been registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry under the registration number: ACTRN12619000772145.
Evaluation of the Methods for Estimating the Fully Reversed Unnotched Fatigue Limits of Steels
Authors: Li Jing , Qiu Yuan-ying , Wang Hai-dong , Wang Zhao-xi
Published: July 2019

Experimental determination of the fatigue limit is expensive considering the time and effort involved. To overcome this drawback, several empirical relations based on monotonic tensile properties and/or hardness have been developed for estimating the fatigue limit. In this study, ten estimation methods are evaluated and compared using the experimental data of 171 steels from literature. The scatter band criterion, standard deviation criterion, and statistical analysis are all used to evaluate and compare the predictability of the considered empirical relations. It is found that the fatigue limit can be well correlated with the Brinell hardness. In the absence of Brinell hardness, the ultimate tensile strength-based direct estimation method may be an alternative to estimate the fatigue limit of steels. It is not recommended to estimate the fatigue limit by using the indirect method on the basis of Basquin’s fatigue properties estimated by the monotonic tensile properties even though the fatigue limit of steel is often determined by the experimental Basquin’s curve at 106 cycles.
Experimental Study on the Seismic Behaviour of Reinforced Concrete Bridge Piers Strengthened by BFRP Sheets
Authors: Li Yong , Xie Meng-Fei , Liu Jing-Bo
Published: July 2019

With the continuous development of the ductility capacity concept for seismic design of bridges, the ductility capacity of many existing bridges does not meet the requirements of the current code for seismic performance because of the low reinforcement ratio and reinforcement corrosion of reinforced concrete (RC) piers. Because of their superior mechanical properties and low price, basalt fibre‐reinforced polymer (BFRP) sheets have potential application in the seismic retrofits field of existing bridges. To study the seismic strengthening effect of RC pier columns, scaled specimens with standard reinforcement ratios, with low reinforcement ratios according to the past code and with corroded reinforcements, were designed and manufactured and then wrapped and pasted with BFRP sheets on the plastic hinge areas. Pseudostatic tests were conducted to verify the seismic performance of the strengthened and unstrengthened specimens. Experimental results showed that the ultimate flexural capacity, deformation capacity, and energy dissipation capacity of strengthened RC pier columns were superior. Especially for strengthened specimens with low reinforcement ratios or corrosion reinforcement, their seismic performance could rival than that of columns with standard reinforcement ratios, which showed the advantage of BFRP sheets in the seismic retrofitting of existing bridge piers.
Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated withS. haematobiumEgg Excretion during the Dry Season, Six Months following Mass Distribution of Praziquantel (PZQ) in 2017 in the Bafia Health Area, South West Region Cameroon: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ndassi Vicky Daonyle , Anchang-Kimbi Judith Kuoh , Sumbele Irene Ule Ngole , Wepnje Godlove Bunda , Kimbi Helen Kuokuo
Published: July 2019

Background. A selective population mass drug administration of PZQ involving school-aged children was carried out in the Bafia Health Area in April 2017. This study investigated the prevalence, intensity, and factors associated withS. haematobiumegg excretion in this foci during the dry season, six months after the chemotherapy campaign.Methods. A cross-sectional study including 1001 consenting individuals (aged 3-62 years) was carried out in three localities (Ikata, Bafia, and Munyenge) in the Bafia Health Area between November 2017 and January 2018. Information on sociodemographic, stream usage, and contact behaviour was documented.Schistosoma haematobiumova in urine were detected using membrane filtration technique.Results. The prevalence ofS. haematobiumegg excretion was 8% with a higher level recorded in Munyenge (13.2%) than Ikata (7.5%) and Bafia (2.8%). The difference was significant (p < 0.001). Equally, Munyenge had the highest infection intensity (36.36 range: 2-200) when compared with Ikata (16.25 range: 2-57) and Bafia (8.0 range: 0-8). Although the age group (5–15 years) was significantly (p < 0.001) associated with more exposure to infested water, this group was less likely (OR: 0.42 95% CI: 0.19-0.91) associated withS. haematobiumegg excretion. The risk of egg excretion increased by 4.79 times (95% CI: 2.20-10.41) and 3.68 times (95% CI: 1.59-8.54) among residents in Munyenge and Ikata, respectively. Similarly, frequency to the stream (> thrice/day) was significantly higher (χ2= 58.73; p < 0.001) in Munyenge. Frequent contact (three visits/day) with stream correlated with highest odds of egg excretion (OR: 8.43 95% CI: 3.71-19.13).Conclusion. The prevalence ofS. haematobiumegg excretion was low during the dry season. This was most likely attributed to the preventive campaign with PZQ and may parallel low transmission potentials in infested waters during this period.
How Effective Are Noninvasive Tests for Diagnosing Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors in Patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 1? Diagnosing MPNST in NF1 Patients
Authors: Schwabe Maria , Spiridonov Stanislav , Yanik Elizabeth L. , Jennings Jack W. , Hillen Travis , Ponisio Maria , McDonald Douglas J. , Dehdashti Farrokh , Cipriano Cara A.
Published: July 2019

Background. Distinguishing between benign and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) in neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) patients prior to excision can be challenging. How can MPNST be most accurately diagnosed using clinical symptoms, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings (tumor size, depth, and necrosis), positron emission tomography (PET) measures (SUVpeak, SUVmax, SUVmax tumor/SUVmean liver, and qualitative scale), and combinations of the above? Methods. All NF1 patients who underwent PET imaging at our institution (January 1, 2007–December 31, 2016) were included. Medical records were reviewed for clinical findings; MR images and PET images were interpreted by two fellowship-trained musculoskeletal and nuclear medicine radiologists, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were created for each PET measurement; the area under the curve (AUC) and thresholds for diagnosing malignancy were calculated. Logistic regression determined significant predictors of malignancy. Results. Our population of 41 patients contained 34 benign and 36 malignant tumors. Clinical findings did not reliably predict MPNST. Tumor depth below fascia was highly sensitive; larger tumors were more likely to be malignant but without a useful cutoff for diagnosis. Necrosis on MRI was highly accurate and was the only significant variable in the regression model. PET measures were highly accurate, with AUCs comparable and cutoff points consistent with prior studies. A diagnostic algorithm was created using MRI and PET findings. Conclusions. MRI and PET were more effective at diagnosing MPNST than clinical features. We created an algorithm for preoperative evaluation of peripheral nerve sheath tumors in NF1 patients, for which additional validation will be indicated.
Polymorphisms in Adipokines in Mexican Children with Obesity
Authors: Jiménez-Osorio Angélica Saraí , Aguilar-Lucio Alma Olivia , Cárdenas-Hernández Helios , Musalem-Younes Claudette , Solares-Tlapechco Jacqueline , Costa-Urrutia Paula , Medina-Contreras Oscar , Granados Julio , Rodríguez-Arellano Martha Eunice
Published: July 2019

The high prevalence of childhood obesity in Mexico is alarming in the health-science field. We propose to investigate the contribution of adipokines and cytokines polymorphisms and common BMI/obesity-associated loci, revealed in genome-wide association studies in Caucasian adult cohorts, with childhood obesity. This study included 773 Mexican-Mestizo children (5-15 years old) in a case-control study. The polymorphisms included were ADIPOQ (rs6444174), TNF-α (rs1800750), IL-1β (rs1143643), IL-6 (rs1524107; rs2069845), NEGR1 (rs34305371), SEC16B-RASAL2 (rs10913469), TMEM18 (rs6548238; rs7561317), GNPDA2 (rs16857402), LEP (rs2167270), MTCH2 (rs10838738), LGR4-LIN7C-BDNF (rs925946), BCDIN3D-FAIM2 (rs7138803), FTO (rs62033400), MC4R (rs11872992), MC4R (rs17782313), and KCTD15 (rs29942). No significant contribution was found with adipokines and cytokines polymorphisms in this study. Only both TMEM18 (rs6548238; rs7561317) polymorphisms were found associated with obesity (OR=0.5, P=0.008) and were in linkage disequilibrium (r2=0.87). The linear regression showed that the rs7561317 polymorphism of TMEM18 is negatively associated with obesity. This report highlights the influence of TMEM18 in Mexican-Mestizo children obesity, while adipokine and cytokine polymorphisms were not associated with it.
Dilatation Therapy and Demographic Characteristics Significantly Influence the Amount of Propofol for Therapeutic Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiography
Authors: Schmidt Christoph A. , Keil Carsten , Kirstein Martha M. , Lehner Frank , Manns Michael P. , von Hahn Thomas , Lankisch Tim O. , Voigtländer Torsten
Published: July 2019

Background and Study Aims. Patients undergoing therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) may require different amounts of sedative agents depending on demographic characteristics, indication of ERC, and/or endoscopic intervention. Patients and Methods. We retrospectively analyzed all patients undergoing therapeutic ERC from 2008 – 2014 who received deep sedation with propofol ± midazolam. Results. A total of 2448 ERC procedures were performed in 781 patients. The cumulative per procedure propofol dose in the different groups was as follows: PSC 479 mg (±256), bile duct stones 356 mg (±187), benign stenosis/cholestasis 395 mg (±228), malignant stenosis 401 mg (±283), and postliver transplant complications 391 mg (±223) (p < 0.05). Multivariable analysis showed that dilatation therapy (p = 0.001), age (p = 0.001), duration of the intervention (p = 0.001), BMI (p = 0.001), gender (p = 0.001), platelet count (p = 0.003), and bilirubin (p = 0.043) influence independently the propofol consumption. Conclusions. Demographic characteristics and endoscopic interventions have a distinct influence on the amount of sedation required for therapeutic ERC. Although the sedation-associated complication rate is low optimization of sedative regimens is a prime goal to further reduce adverse events of therapeutic ERC.
Can Yellow Stripe Scad Compete with Salmon on Its Role in Platelet Phospholipid Membrane and Its Cardiovascular Benefits?
Authors: Yakubu Abdulrahman , Azlan Azrina , Loh Su Peng , Md Noor Sabariah
Published: July 2019

This review article stresses the effective role of dietary fish fillet docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on overweight as a risk factor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) via platelet phospholipid modification. Several reports have demonstrated that saturated fat in overweight evokes systemic inflammation and more importantly predisposes it to cardiovascular disorder. Prospective studies have shown that saturated fat is directly proportional to the level of arachidonic acids (AA), precursor of thromboxane in the platelet phospholipid membrane as omega-6 fatty acid in overweight and obese people. Some literature has demonstrated that omega-3 fatty acid from fish fillet ameliorates inflammation, reduces proinflammatory cytokine, inhibits signaling pathway, and regulates the physical composition of inflammatory leukocytes and free radicals (ROS). Yellow stripe scad (YSS) is a local Malaysian fish that has been shown to contain a comparable level of EPA/DHA content as observed in salmon. This review article will focus on the dietary role of fish fillet that will balance the omega-6 fatty acid/omega-3 fatty acid ratio in platelet phospholipid from YSS to manage and prevent healthy overweight/obesity-related risk factor of CVD and to avoid the risk orthodox drug treatment.
Atypical Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Responses to Topographic Modifications of Titanium Biomaterials Indicate Cytoskeletal- and Genetic Plasticity-Based Heterogeneity of Cells
Authors: Khan Mohammad R. , Mordan Nicola , Parkar Mohamed , Salih Vehid , Donos Nikolaos , Brett Peter M.
Published: July 2019

Titanium (Ti) is widely used as a biomaterial for endosseous implants due to its relatively inert surface oxide layer that enables implanted devices the ability of assembling tissue reparative components that culminate in osseointegration. Topographic modifications in the form of micro- and nanoscaled structures significantly promote osseointegration and enhance the osteogenic differentiation of adult mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). While the biological mechanisms central to the differential responses of tissues and cells to Ti surface modifications remain unknown, adhesion and morphological adaptation are amongst the earliest events at the cell-biomaterial interface that are highly influenced by surface topography and profoundly impact the regulation of stem cell fate determination. This study correlated the effects of Ti topographic modifications on adhesion and morphological adaptation of human MSCs with phenotypic change. The results showed that modified Ti topographies precluded the adhesion of a subset of MSCs while incurring distinct morphological constraints on adherent cells. These effects anomalously corresponded with a differential expression of stem cell pluripotency and Wnt signalling-associated markers on both modified surfaces while additionally differing between hydrophobic and hydrophilic surface modifications—though extent of osteogenic differentiation induced by both modified topographies yielded similarly significant higher levels of cellular mineralisation in contrast to polished Ti. These results suggest that in the absence of deposited proteins and soluble factors, both modified topographies incur the selective adhesion of a subpopulation of progenitors with relatively higher cytoskeletal plasticity. While the presence of deposited proteins and soluble factors does not significantly affect adherence of cells, nanotopographic modifications enhance expression of pluripotency markers in proliferative conditions, which are conversely overridden by both modified topographies in osteogenic inductive conditions. Further deciphering the mechanisms underlying cellular selectivity and Ti topographic responsiveness will improve our understanding of stem cell heterogeneity and advance the potential of MSCs in regenerative medicine.
Comparative Study on Two Types of Nonpillar Mining Techniques by Roof Cutting and by Filling Artificial Materials
Authors: Zhen Enze , Gao Yubing , Wang Yajun , Wang Siming
Published: July 2019

Gob‐side entry retaining is an environmentally friendly nonpillar mining technology with high efficiency and safety. With the continuous exploration of the gob‐side entry retained by filling (GERF) with roadside supports, the GERF has enabled nonpillar mining. However, dense roadside supports or filled artificial pillars become subject to the pressure of roof pressure instead of coal pillars, which causes problems. Recently, an original innovative gob‐side entry retaining technology by roof cutting and pressure relief (RCPR) was developed and extensively implemented in China’s coal production. The gob‐side entry formed by different retaining methods has exhibited some differences in the strata behaviors and the results of retained roadways. Via industrial case and numerical simulation, this study explored the influence of entry retaining methods on the results of the entry retained. The results indicate that the total deformation of the surrounding rock of the GERF is larger and more severe; the convergence between the roof and floor and the entry sides displacement is 885 mm and 216 mm, respectively; the hydraulic support pressure near the retained entry is larger; and the peak value is 38.7 MPa. The deformation of the surrounding rock by RCPR is relatively small; the convergence between the roof and the floor and the entry sides displacement is 351 mm and 166 mm, respectively; the hydraulic support pressure near the retained entry is weakened to a certain extent; the peak value is 32.2 MPa; and the peak pressure is reduced by 16.8% compared with the GERF. A numerical simulation analysis reveals the following findings: RCPR changes the surrounding rock structure of a gob‐side entry, optimizes the surrounding rock stress environment, and belongs to active pressure‐relief entry retaining; the GERF does not adjust the surrounding rock structure of a gob‐side entry and belongs to passive pressure‐resistance entry retaining; and the surrounding rock of a gob‐side entry is significantly affected by pressure. These two methods of gob‐side entry retaining have different effects on the surrounding rock of the entry retained. This study can contribute to an exploration of the strata behaviors and the results of a retained roadway by the GERF or RCPR method.
Prevalence Study of Dermatologic Manifestations among Diabetic Patients
Authors: Azizian Zahra , Behrangi Elham , Hasheminasabzavareh Roshanak , Kazemlo Hassan , Esmaeeli Roja , Hassani Parvaneh
Published: July 2019

Background. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an interdisciplinary disorder that needs many different specialties’ attention; however, the importance of dermatologists’ knowledge has not been highlighted regarding this issue. As a result, we aim to assess the prevalence and variety of DM skin and nail manifestations in an effort to further acquaint dermatologists and other clinicians with diabetic dermatologic manifestations. Methods. This was a cross-sectional study; subjects who had a diagnosis of DM, attending to the outpatient endocrinology clinics of Rassoul Akram Hospital, Tehran, Iran, were evaluated by one dermatologist for diabetic dermopathy. The results were recorded in prepared data sheets, and general descriptions of DM duration, DM type, DM control, and drug history as well as the demographic data were gathered. Results. Among a total of 255 subjects, the prevalence of one or more identifiable skin conditions was 88.4%. 15.7% of the subjects had nail manifestations. Among cutaneous manifestations, acanthosis nigricans, acral erythema, and onychoschizia showed a significant relationship with the age and disease duration (p<0.05); and knuckle pebbles, eczema, facial erythema, and koilonychias had a meaningful relationship with FBS level and glycated hemoglobin, HbA1c (p<0.05). Conclusion. This study provides an overview that facilitates earlier detection and treatment of DM. Also, this data can help physicians and endocrinologists to visualize DM control level.
Design and Analysis of a Novel Piezo-Actuated XYθz Micropositioning Mechanism with Large Travel and Kinematic Decoupling
Authors: Xiao Ruijiang , Shao Shubao , Xu Minglong , Jing Zijian
Published: July 2019

A novel hybrid-type XYθz micropositioning mechanism driven by piezoelectric actuators is proposed in this paper. With the purpose of realizing a large motion range and 3-DoF independent motion within a compact size, the mechanism is designed using a symmetric translational part and a rotational part that are linked serially. The translational part is based on a double-amplification mechanism incorporating a guidance mechanism for decoupling; the rotational part uses a nonuniform beam with an amplification mechanism to translate the linear output displacement of piezoelectric actuators into a large rotational angle around the Z axis. To precisely predict the output displacements and implement dimensional design, electromechanical models of the translational mechanism and rotational mechanism are established. According to the theoretical model, dimensional optimization is carried out to achieve large motion ranges within a compact size. A prototype of the proposed mechanism is fabricated according to the optimized results, and the performance of the mechanism is validated by experiment. The experimental results show that translational travel in X and Y directions of 204.2 μm and 212.8 μm, respectively, and travel of 8.7 mrad in the θz direction can be realized in a small size of 106 mm × 106 mm × 23 mm. And, the output coupling was evaluated to be below 3%, indicating an excellent decoupling performance.