bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NGAL and SMAD1 gene expression in the early detection of diabetic nephropathy by liquid biopsy
Authors: Veiga Glaucia , Alves Beatriz , Perez Matheus , Alcantara Luiz Vinicius , Raimundo Joyce , Zambrano Lysien , Encina Jessica , Pereira Edimar Cristiano , Bacci Marcelo , Murad Neif , Fonseca Fernando
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a disease that progresses with the slow and progressive decline of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR); the installation of this pathology is silent and one of the major causes of death in patients with diabetes.

Aims

To identify new molecular biomarkers for early identification of the onset of DN in patients with type II diabetes mellitus (DM2). We studied the expression profile of the genes; suppressor of mothers against decapentaplegic type 1 (SMAD1), neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and type IV collagen (COLIV1A) in peripheral blood and urine sediment samples.

Methods

Ninety volunteers, 51 with DM2 and 39 healthy, were recruited from the Faculdade de Medicina do ABC outpatient clinic. We conducted an interview and collected anthropometric data, as well as blood and urine samples for biochemical evaluation and real-time PCR amplification of the genes of interest.

Results

Gene expression data: peripheral blood NGAL (DM2 0.09758±0.1914 vs CTL 0.02293±0.04578), SMAD1 (blood: DM2 0.01102±0.04059* vs CTL 0.0001317±0.0003609; urine: DM2 0.7195±2.344* vs CTL 0.09812±0.4755), there was no significant expression of COLIV1A. These genes demonstrated good sensitivity and specificity in the receiving operating characteristic curve evaluation.

Conclusion

Our data suggest the potential use of NGAL and SMAD1 gene expression in peripheral blood and urine samples as early biomarkers of DN.
Utility of the AVISE Connective Tissue Disease test in predicting lupus diagnosis and progression
Authors: Liang Emily , Taylor Mihaela , McMahon Maureen
Published: March 2020

Background

The AVISE Connective Tissue Disease (CTD) test uses autoantibody, erythrocyte-bound C4d (EC4d) and B-cell-bound C4d (BC4d) levels to aid in diagnoses of SLE, other CTDs and fibromyalgia. We evaluated the utility of the AVISE CTD test in predicting SLE disease development and damage progression.

Methods

Patients who had undergone AVISE CTD testing were assessed for SLE diagnosis by the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) and American College of Rheumatology criteria and for SLE damage by the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics Damage Index (SDI) at the time of AVISE testing (t=0) and 2 years later (t=2).

Results

Among 117 patients without a previous diagnosis of SLE, 65% of patients who tested positive developed SLE at t=2, compared with 10.3% of patients who tested non-positive (p<0.0001). AVISE-positive patients fulfilled significantly more SLICC diagnostic criteria than AVISE-non-positive patients at both t=0 (3.8±2.1 vs 1.9±1.1, p=0.001) and t=2 (4.5±2.2 vs 2.1±1.2, p<0.0001). AVISE-positive patients also had had significantly higher SDI at t=2 (1.9±1.3 vs 1.03±1.3, p=0.01). BC4d levels correlated with the number of SLICC criteria at t=0 (r=0.33, p<0.0001) and t=2 (r=0.34, p<0.0001), as well as SDI at t=0 (r=0.25, p=0.003) and t=2 (r=0.26, p=0.002).

Conclusions

The AVISE CTD test can aid in SLE evaluation by predicting SLE disease development and future damage progression.
Voluntary sterilisation of young childless women: not so fast
Authors: Buturovic Zeljka
Published: March 2020

An increasing number of bioethicists are raising concerns that young childless women requesting sterilisation as means of birth control are facing unfair obstacles. It is argued that these obstacles are inconsistent, paternalistic, that they reflect pronatalist bias and that men seem to face fewer obstacles. It is commonly recommended that physicians should change their approach to this type of patient. In contrast, I argue that physicians’ reluctance to eagerly follow an unusual request is understandable and that whatever obstacles result from this reluctance serve as a useful filter for women who are not seriously committed to their expressed requests for sterilisation. As women already disproportionally bear the birth control burden, less resistance that men might be getting in terms of voluntary sterilisation works to women’s advantage, providing a much needed balance. Societal attitudes towards women and motherhood should not be confused with individual physicians’ reasonable reluctance to jump at a serious elective procedure at fairly mild expression of interest.
Relativistic compact stars with dark matter density profile
Authors: Sarkar Nayan , Sarkar Susmita , Singh Ksh. Newton , Rahaman Farook
Published: March 2020

In this article, we are proposing a model of anisotropic compact star possessing density profile of pseudo-isothermal dark matter satisfying a linear equation of state (EoS). The stellar system supported by this density profile is physically possible and in equilibrium fulfilling all the energy conditions including the TOV-equation. The solution also satisfies the causality condition, static stability criterion, Abreu’s stability and Bondi’s criteria. The fulfillment of Rhoades–Ruffini criterion makes our solution more physically viable as well. The M–R curve is plotted for $$b=12.55$$b=12.55 km and $$B_g=60$$Bg=60 MeV/fm$$^3$$3.
Highly active electrocatalyst cobalt-carbide nanoparticles synthesized by wet-chemistry method for hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Lin Yi-Heng , Huang Po-Chia , Wang Sheng-Chang , Huang Jow-Lay
Published: March 2020

Hydrogen is a promising alternative energy without greenhouse gas emissions. The transition metal carbides (TMCs) are considered a sustainable alternatives to noble metals in catalysis. Among the TMCs, Co[Formula: see text]C ([Formula: see text] = 2, 3) nanoparticles (NPs) act as an excellent electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) by water splitting. In our report, Co[Formula: see text]C nanocomposites were synthesized by wet chemistry method using cobalt (II) acetate, sodium hydroxide as precursors and triethylene glycol as solvent. In addition, Co2C NPs were synthesized by similar wet chemistry method using cobalt (II) acetate as precursors and triethylene glycol, oleylamine as solvent. The cobalt carbide NPs exhibited high electrocatalytic activity. Co[Formula: see text]C nanocomposites performed a −0.33 V onset potential and 91 mV/dec Tafel slope, while the Co2C NPs exhibited a better performance of −0.27 V and 60 mV/dec, respectively.
Investigation on interlaminar properties of photopolymerizable resin repaired GFRPs during long-term acid ageing
Authors: Chen Zixuan , Yu Tianyu , Kim Yun-Hae
Published: March 2020

Fiber reinforced plastics (FRPs) are extensively utilized in various applications due to their excellent comprehensive properties. However, the weak interlaminar property and durability of FRPs have been repeatedly mentioned as limitations in applications that include complex loading conditions. The remediation of FRPs has recently become a research focus for lifetime extension and strength reversion. Photopolymerizable resins, as a novel matrix material and an alternative for thermal polymerizable resins, have the advantages of short operation time, low price, and low equipment requirements. This study investigated the durability in long-term acid atmosphere exposure environment of photo and thermal polymerizable resin repaired GFRP. External glass fabric patches impregnated with the photo or thermal polymerizable resins were attached to pre-damaged fundamental specimens to conduct the remediation, followed by room temperature (RT) or UV irradiation for curing processing. The repaired specimens were positioned in the laboratory-fabricated hermetically-sealed condensation device. The 10 vol.% sulphuric acid (pH[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]0.76) was chosen as the source to generate the acidic atmosphere. The total ageing time was sustained for eight weeks (over 1300 h), and ILSS and DCB tests were performed every seven days, together with morphology observation. Better interlaminar properties retention and stability were revealed after eight weeks ageing for UV repaired specimens. The hardener is a factor that tends to increase the acid penetration rate, which is thought of as the mechanism of the better acid resistance of the UV repaired specimens.
A Novel Floating/Grounded Meminductor Emulator
Authors: Sozen Hasan , Cam Ugur
Published: March 2020

Meminductor is a nonlinear two-terminal element with storage energy and memory ability. To date, meminductor element is not available commercially as memristor and memcapacitor are. Therefore, it is of great significance to implement a meminductor emulator for breadboard experiment. In this paper, a flux-controlled floating/grounded meminductor emulator without a memristor is presented. It is built with commercially available off-the-shelf electronic devices. It consists of single operational transconductance amplifier (OTA), single multiplier, two second-generation current conveyors (CCIIs), single current-feedback operational amplifier (CFOA) and single operational amplifier. Using OTA device introduces an additional control parameter besides frequency and amplitude values of applied voltage to control the area of pinched hysteresis loop of meminductor. Mathematical model of proposed emulator circuit is given to describe the behavior of meminductor circuit. The breadboard experiment is performed using CA3080, AD844, AD633J and LM741 for OTA, CCII–CFOA, multiplier and operational amplifier, respectively. Simulation and experimental test results are given to verify the theoretical analyses. Frequency-dependent pinched hysteresis loop is maintained up to 5 kHz. The presented meminductor emulator tends to work as ordinary inductor for higher frequencies.
Refined large N duality for knots
Authors: Kameyama Masaya , Nawata Satoshi
Published: March 2020

We formulate large [Formula: see text] duality of [Formula: see text] refined Chern–Simons theory with a torus knot/link in [Formula: see text]. By studying refined BPS states in M-theory, we provide the explicit form of low-energy effective actions of Type IIA string theory with D4-branes on the [Formula: see text]-background. This form enables us to relate refined Chern–Simons invariants of a torus knot/link in [Formula: see text] to refined BPS invariants in the resolved conifold. Assuming that the extra [Formula: see text] global symmetry acts on BPS states trivially, the duality predicts graded dimensions of cohomology groups of moduli spaces of M2–M5 bound states associated to a torus knot/link in the resolved conifold. Thus, this formulation can be also interpreted as a positivity conjecture of refined Chern–Simons invariants of torus knots/links. We also discuss about an extension to non-torus knots.
MULTIFRACTAL ANALYSIS OF BRAZILIAN AGRICULTURAL MARKET
Authors: STOSIC TATIJANA , NEJAD SALMAN ABARGHOUEI , STOSIC BORKO
Published: March 2020

In order to address the overall properties of the Brazilian agricultural commodity market and the intricate effects of political and economic instabilities, in this work, we provide a comprehensive study of the multifractal properties of the Brazilian commodities using multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MFDFA). We focus on the daily price of 12 Brazilian agricultural commodities over the last two decades, and four commodities (sugar, soybean, coffee and cattle) are also studied in terms of time-dependent MFDFA to address the effects of particular political and economic instability events. All commodities exhibit multifractal properties, which are then used to evaluate market efficiency. We find that all commodities except coffee show lower market efficiency for prices in Brazilian Reals (BRL) than in US Dollars (USD) reflecting the presence of constrains in domestic agricultural market, such as minimum price policy. From time-dependent MFDFA, we find that after the 2007/2008 food crisis, the market efficiency increases, as indicated by the changes in price dynamics towards lower persistency and weaker multifractality, with the dominance of small fluctuations.
Homeomorphism flows for SDEs driven by G-Brownian motion with non-Lipschitz coefficients
Authors: Liu Juanfang , Miao Yu , Mu Jianyong , Xu Jie
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we shall prove the homeomorphism property of solutions for multidimensional stochastic differential equations (SDEs) driven by [Formula: see text]-Brownian motion with non-Lipschitz coefficients with respect to the initial values.
A Neural Element Method
Authors: Liu G. R.
Published: March 2020

Methods of artificial neural networks (ANNs) have been applied to solve various science and engineering problems. TrumpetNets and TubeNets were recently proposed by the author for creating two-way deepnets using the standard finite element method (FEM) and smoothed FEM (S-FEM) as trainers. The significance of these specially configured ANNs is that the solutions to inverse problems have been, for the first time, analytically derived in explicit formulae.

This paper presents a novel neural element method (NEM) with a focus on mechanics problems. The key idea is to use artificial neurons to form elemental units called neural-pulse-units (NPUs), using which the shape functions can then be constructed, and used in the standard weak and weakened-weak (W2) formulations to establish discrete stiffness matrices, similar to the standard FEM and S-FEM. Theory, formulation and codes in Python are presented in detail. Numerical examples are then used to demonstrate this novel NEM. For the first time, we have made a clear connection in theory, formulations and coding, between ANN methods and physical-law-based computational methods. We believe that this novel NEM fundamentally changes the way of approaching mechanics problems, and opens a window of opportunity for a range of applications. It offers a new direction of research on unconventional computational methods. It may also have an impact on how the well-established weak and W2 formulations can be introduced to machine learning processes, for example, creating well-behaved loss functions with preferable convexity.
Understanding the Factors Affecting Employees’ Motivation to Engage in Co-Creation in the Banking Industry
Authors: Feldmann Anna , Teuteberg Frank
Published: March 2020

Increasing digitalization and new technological possibilities also entail substantial changes for working methods in the B2B (business-to-business) environment in banking. In this context, the concept of co-creation is critical. Although this concept and the motivation factors behind it have been thoroughly investigated in the B2C (business-to-consumer) sector, only a few research results exist for the B2B context. This study aims to bridge the current knowledge gap and investigate individuals’ motivation to participate in B2B co-creation. By using a case study and qualitative interviews, this study focuses on two aspects: (a) It reveals how a co-creation measure is used in practice in the B2B environment; and (b) it provides information on the motivation factors and outcome from the point of view of the participants in the B2B co-creation project. The paper concludes with an integrative model of the main motivation factors behind B2B co-creation and their effects.
COMPLEMENTARY PRODUCT CATEGORIZATION AND ITS INFLUENCE ON THE MAKE, BUY, AND ALLY DECISION: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY
Authors: BABURAJ YAMUNA , TZABBAR DANIEL , NARAYANAN VADAKE
Published: March 2020

The role of complementary products is becoming increasingly important in facilitating innovation and has become a pivotal aspect of an organisation’s technology strategy. To address the lack of a useful framework that captures the different dimensions of product complementarity, this paper proposes a categorization for complementary products centered on user engagement. Based on a sample of 305 make, buy, and ally decisions for 32 primary product firms in the Personal Computing industry, this paper explores the influence of the proposed categorization on its strategy decision for developing complementary products. Results suggest a nuanced categorization of product complementarity adds value to explaining the decision, with the firm’s knowledge capital having a non-trivial influence on it. This paper endeavors to contribute to the literature on platform innovation by examining significance of inter-product relationships on strategy.
ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE OF COMMON UROPATHOGENS FROM CATS WITH URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS IN A VETERINARY TEACHING HOSPITAL IN TAIWAN
Authors: Lien Ching-Jung , Wang Shang-Lin
Published: March 2020

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is frequently diagnosed in dogs and cats. To realize common regional uropathogens and their antimicrobial resistance plays an important role in both human and veterinary medicine. An empirical antibiotic was administrated while waiting for the results of bacterial culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Eighty-five bacterial isolates were obtained from 74 cats with clinical signs of UTI. Escherichia coli, Enterococcus species, Staphylococcus species and Klebsiella species were the most common bacterial isolates in our hospital. Compared to the previous researches, the susceptibilities of recommended empirical antibiotics exhibited higher resistant rate in our study. Lincomycin was the most resistant antibiotic within the test panel to that almost 98% uropathogens were resistant. The resistant rates of cephalexin, cephalothin, penicillin and amoxicillin were about 90%. Therefore, the selection of empirical antibiotics should be re-evaluated with time in Taiwan.
Symmetry of topographs of Markoff forms
Authors: Abe Ryuji , Aitchison Iain R.
Published: March 2020

The Markoff spectrum is defined as the set of normalized values of arithmetic minima of indefinite quadratic forms. In the theory of the Markoff spectrum we observe various kinds of symmetry. Each of Conway’s topographs of quadratic forms which give values in the discrete part of the Markoff spectrum has a special infinite path consisting of edges. It has symmetry with respect to a translation along the path and countable central symmetries by which the path is invariant. We prove that these properties are obtained from the fact that the path is a discretization of a geodesic in the upper half-plane which corresponds to a value of the discrete part of the Markoff spectrum and projects to a simple closed geodesic on the once punctured torus with the highest degree of symmetry.
Inequalities for the dth residual crank moments of overpartitions
Authors: Al-Saedi Ali , Morrill Thomas , Swisher Holly
Published: March 2020

In 2009, Bringmann, Lovejoy and Osburn defined two analogues of the crank function for overpartitions, namely the first residual crank and second residual crank. For a positive integer [Formula: see text], we introduce the notion of a [Formula: see text]th residual crank function for overpartitions, examine the positive moments of these generalized crank functions while varying [Formula: see text], and prove some inequalities.
Left–right pairs and complex forests of infinite rooted binary trees
Authors: Zubrilina Nina
Published: March 2020

Let [Formula: see text], and let [Formula: see text] be a pair of Möbius transformations corresponding to [Formula: see text] matrices such that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are disjoint. Given such a pair (called a left–right pair), we can construct a directed graph [Formula: see text] with vertices [Formula: see text] and edges [Formula: see text], which is a collection of infinite binary trees. We answer two questions of Nathanson by classifying all the pairs of elements of [Formula: see text] whose corresponding Möbius transformations form left–right pairs and showing that trees in [Formula: see text] are always rooted.
The local sum conjecture in two dimensions
Authors: Fraser Robert , Wright James
Published: March 2020

The local sum conjecture is a variant of some of Igusa’s questions on exponential sums put forward by Denef and Sperber. In a remarkable paper by Cluckers, Mustata and Nguyen, this conjecture has been established in all dimensions, using sophisticated, powerful techniques from a research area blending algebraic geometry with ideas from logic. The purpose of this paper is to give an elementary proof of this conjecture in two dimensions which follows Varčenko’s treatment of Euclidean oscillatory integrals based on Newton polyhedra for good coordinate choices. Another elementary proof is given by Veys from an algebraic geometric perspective.
The Diophantine equation (m2 + n2)x + (2mn)y = (m + n)2z
Authors: Yan Xiao-Hui
Published: March 2020

For fixed coprime positive integers [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], there is a conjecture that the exponential Diophantine equation [Formula: see text] has only the positive integer solution [Formula: see text] for any positive integer [Formula: see text]. This is the analogue of Jésmanowicz conjecture. In this paper, we consider the equation [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] are coprime positive integers, and prove that the equation has no positive integer solution if [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Research Progress of Sulfur/Carbon Composite Cathode Materials and the Corresponding Safe Electrolytes for Advanced Li-S Batteries
Authors: Zhang Xiang-Qian , Liu Chen , Gao Yue , Zhang Jin-Mei , Wang Ya-Qin
Published: March 2020

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery is one of the most promising secondary batteries for its high energy density, high natural abundance and environment friendly nature of sulfur. However, the commercial application of Li-S battery faces some technical obstacles, such as low cycling stability resulted from the shuttle effect of polysulfides, low electrical conductivity of sulfur and volume expansion during charge/discharge process. Furthermore, due to the flammability of organic solvents in liquid electrolytes, the continuous formation of lithium dendrites and the low ignition temperature of carbon–sulfur mixtures, safety of Li-S batteries has become another critical issue to be solved. In recent years, many different strategies have been put forward to improve the electrochemical performance and safety of Li-S batteries, containing the development of carbon/sulfur composite cathodes, design of flame retardant electrolytes and protection of negative electrodes. In this review, the recent progress of sulfur/carbon composite cathode materials for Li-S battery is first introduced. Then the evaluation methods and latest development of high-safety electrolytes toward advanced Li-S batteries are summarized. Finally, the development trends of Li-S battery are forecasted.
Plasmonic Coupling of One-Dimensional Palladium Nanoparticle Chains
Authors: Marhaba Salem , Samad Samaya El
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we investigate the plasmonic coupling effects on the localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs) of palladium nanoparticle chains. We show the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images and the extinction cross-section spectra of near-contact palladium nanoparticle chains from monomer to pentamer. The extinction spectra of chains nanoparticles were measured by far-field polarization spectroscopy over a large spectral range (ultraviolet, visible and near-infrared) and compared with numerical calculations based on finite element method (FEM). For single palladium nanoparticle, the LSPR phenomenon appears in ultraviolet region. By addition of palladium nanoparticles to the chain, we observe a tunable red-shifting on the spectral position due to plasmonic coupling between palladium nanoparticles and a systematic spectral amplitude enhancement with the appearance of new modes of resonance.
L-Histidine Stabilized Copper Nanoclusters as a Fluorescence Probe for Determination of Fluazinam
Authors: Cai Zhifeng , Yin Xiu , Fang Jingling , Zhao Jie , Wu Tianqi , Hao Erxiao , Tian Fang , Zhang Caifeng
Published: March 2020

In this contribution, a one-pot synthesis method possessing the advantages of simple, green and low-cost had been researched for the preparation of L-histidine-stabilized Cu nanoclusters (Cu NCs). Subsequently, the structure and optical properties of as-prepared Cu NCs were studied by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), fluorescence spectroscopy and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. TEM image of the Cu NCs showed high dispersion with an average diameter of 2.0[Formula: see text]nm. Fluorescence spectrum displayed that the Cu NCs emitted green fluorescence (emission wavelength of 492[Formula: see text]nm) under excitation wavelength of 393[Formula: see text]nm. Moreover, the as-synthesized Cu NCs illustrated excellent performances, such as good water solubility, UV stability and high-salt resistance. Interestingly, the fluorescence intensity of as-prepared Cu NCs was obviously quenched in the presence of fluazinam. Under optimal conditions, the relative fluorescence intensity was linear with the fluazinam concentrations from 1 to 40[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]M, with a detection limit of 0.25[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]M. Eventually, the fluorescence sensor was successfully used to determine fluazinam in real water samples.
SCA-Pitaya
Authors: Durvaux François , Durvaux Marc
Published: March 2020

Athough side-channel attacks appeared more than two decades ago, they remain very little discussed by security professionals outside the academia or very specific sectors (e.g., smartcard industry, governments). However, with the increasing generalisation of Internet of Things systems, they are a threat that can no longer be ignored by the operational world. This work aims to demonstrate that side-channel attacks can be practically achieved by an attacker, with reasonable means, effort, knowledge, and time. For this purpose, the contribution of this work is twofold. First, it is shown how a side-channel attack setup exploiting power leakages through electro-magnetic radiations, and making use of general-purpose and affordable equipment, can be built. The acquisition of attack power traces is made thanks to a Red Pitaya STEMlab platform coupled with a home-built radio front-end. Second, it is shown how an attack can be conducted against targets that are representative of Internet of Things devices: 8-bit and 32-bit Arduino boards.
Bubbly and Buoyant Particle–Laden Turbulent Flows
Authors: Mathai Varghese , Lohse Detlef , Sun Chao
Published: March 2020

Fluid turbulence is commonly associated with stronger drag, greater heat transfer, and more efficient mixing than in laminar flows. In many natural and industrial settings, turbulent liquid flows contain suspensions of dispersed bubbles and light particles. Recently, much attention has been devoted to understanding the behavior and underlying physics of such flows by use of both experiments and high-resolution direct numerical simulations. This review summarizes our present understanding of various phenomenological aspects of bubbly and buoyant particle–laden turbulent flows. We begin by discussing different dynamical regimes, including those of crossing trajectories and wake-induced oscillations of rising particles, and regimes in which bubbles and particles preferentially accumulate near walls or within vortical structures. We then address how certain paradigmatic turbulent flows, such as homogeneous isotropic turbulence, channel flow, Taylor–Couette turbulence, and thermally driven turbulence, are modified by the presence of these dispersed bubbles and buoyant particles. We end with a list of summary points and future research questions.
Elucidating the roles of solubility and ventilation-perfusion mismatch in the second gas effect using a two-step model of gas exchange
Authors: Korman Ben , Dash Ranjan K. , Peyton Philip J.
Published: March 2020

Gas exchange in the lung can always be represented as the sum of two components: gas exchange at constant volume followed by gas exchange on volume correction. Using this sequence to study the second gas effect, low gas solubility and increased ventilation-perfusion mismatch are shown to act together to enhance second gas uptake. While appearing to contravene classical concepts of gas exchange, a detailed theoretical analysis shows it is fully consistent with these concepts.
Timed synchronization of muscle contraction to heartbeat enhances muscle hyperemia
Authors: Giuriato Gaia , Ives Stephen J. , Tarperi Cantor , Bortolan Lorenzo , Ruzzante Federico , Pedrinolla Anna , Martignon Camilla , Laginestra Fabio Giuseppe , Cevese Antonio , Schena Federico , Venturelli Massimo
Published: March 2020

Blood flow (BF) to exercising muscles is susceptible to variations of intensity, and duration of skeletal muscle contractions, cardiac cycle, blood velocity, and vessel dilation. During cyclic muscle activity, these elements may change proportionally with or without direct optimal temporal alignment, likely influencing BF to active muscle. Ideally, the pulsed delivery of blood to active muscle timed with the inactive phase of muscle duty-cycle would enhance the peak and average BF. To investigate the phenomenon of muscle contraction and pulse synchronicity, electrically evoked muscle contractions (trains of 20 Hz, 200-ms duration) were synchronized with each systolic phase of the anterograde blood velocity spectrum (aBVS). Specifically, unilateral quadriceps contractions matched in-phase (IP) with the aBVS were compared with contractions matched out-of-phase (OP) with the aBVS in 10 healthy participants (26 ± 3 yr). During each trial, femoral BF of the contracting limb and central hemodynamics were recorded for 5 min with an ultrasound Doppler, a plethysmograph, and a cardioimpedance device. At steady state (5th min) IP BF (454 ± 30 mL/min) and vascular conductance (4.3 ± 0.2 mL·min−1·mmHg−1), and OP MAP (108 ± 2 mmHg) were significantly lower ( P < 0.001) in comparison to OP BF (784 ± 25 mL/min) and vascular conductance (6.7 ± 0.2 mL·min−1·mmHg−1), and IP MAP (113 ± 3 mmHg). On the contrary, no significant difference (all, P > 0.05) was observed between IP and OP central hemodynamics (HR: 79 ± 10 vs. 76 ± 11 bpm, CO: 8.0 ± 1.6 vs. 7.3 ± 1.6 L/min), and ventilatory patterns (V̇e:14 ± 2 vs. 14 ± 1 L/min, V̇o2:421 ± 70 vs. 397 ± 34 mL/min). The results suggest that muscle contractions occurring during OP that do not interfere with aBVS elicit a maximization of muscle functional hyperemia.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY When muscle contraction is synchronized with the pulsed delivery of blood flow to active muscle, muscle functional hyperemia can be either maximized or minimized. This suggests a possibility to couple different strategies to enhance the acute and chronic effects of exercise on the cardiovascular system.
MHD Slip Flow of CNT-Ethylene Glycol Nanofluid due to a Stretchable Rotating Disk with Cattaneo–Christov Heat Flux Model
Authors: Tulu Ayele , Ibrahim Wubshet
Published: March 2020

This article deals with carbon nanoliquid flow due to stretchable rotating disk with the effect of Cattaneo–Christov heat flux model. Both SWCNTs and MWCNTs are considered with ethylene glycol as the base fluid. The effects of nanoparticle volume friction, normally applied magnetic field, stretching factor, velocity, and thermal slip factors are examined. The fundamental flow governing equations are transformed into dimensionless system of coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations, and they are solved numerically using spectral quasi-linearization method (SQLM). Employing graphs and tables, the results of velocity and temperature fields as well as skin friction coefficient and local heat transfer rate are analyzed and presented via embedded parameters. The results reveal that higher velocity fields and lower temperature fields are noticed in the MWCNT nanofluids than SWCNT nanofluids. The higher incidence of magnetic field improves the thermal boundary layer thickness. A growth in velocity slip factor reduces the momentum boundary layer thickness of the nanoliquid flow. Generally, radial stretching of the disk is helpful in improving the cooling process of the rotating disk in practical applications.
Cyclocarya paliurus Polysaccharide Inhibits Glioma Cell U251 Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion and Promotes Apoptosis via the GSK3β/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Du Xiaolong , Guo Kai , Ma Yongqian , Chang Jianyong
Published: March 2020

Objective. To investigate the effects of Cyclocarya paliurus polysaccharide (CPP) on the proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of human glioma U251 cells and further explore the underlying mechanism. Methods. U251 cells were cultured in vitro and treated with various concentrations (25, 50, 75, 100, 125, and 150 μmol/L) of CPP for 24, 48, and 72 h. Cell counting kit-8 was used to detect the activity of cell proliferation. Wound-healing assay, Transwell assay, and flow cytometry were used to measure the effects of CPP on the migration, invasion, and apoptosis of U251 cells, respectively. Western blotting was used to determine the protein expression involved in the GSK3β/β-catenin signaling pathway and its downstream genes related to proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis including Cyr61, CCND1, Vimentin, and Slug. Meanwhile, qRT-PCR was used to detect the mRNA levels of Cyr61, CCND1, Vimentin, and Slug. Results. We found that CPP not only could inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of U251 cells but also promote its apoptosis in vitro. Besides, CPP could significantly inhibit the phosphorylation and decrease the protein levels of GSK3 β at ser9 site (p<0.05), and thus increasing the phosphorylation of β-Catenin at ser33/37 site (p<0.05), resulting in β-Catenin degradation. In addition, we also found that CPP could downregulate the mRNA (p<0.05) and protein expression (p<0.05) of downstream genes of GSK3 β/β-catenin signaling pathway including Cyr61, CCND1, Vimentin, and Slug, which are related to proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. Conclusion. CPP could inhibit the expression of GSK3β, promote the degradation of β-catenin, and downregulate the levels of GSK3β/β-catenin downstream genes including Cyr61, CCND1, Vimentin, and Slug, which regulate the proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of glioma cells.
Large Eddy Simulation of a Turbulent Spray Jet Flame Using Filtered Tabulated Chemistry
Authors: Chatelier Adrien , Fiorina Benoît , Moureau Vincent , Bertier Nicolas
Published: March 2020

This work presents Large Eddy Simulations of the unconfined CORIA Rouen Spray Burner, fed with liquid n-heptane and air. Turbulent combustion modeling is based on the Filtered TAbulated Chemistry model for LES (F-TACLES) formalism, designed to capture the propagation speed of turbulent stratified flames. Initially dedicated to gaseous combustion, the filtered flamelet model is challenged for the first time in a turbulent spray flame configuration. Two meshes are employed. The finest grid, where both flame thickness and wrinkling are resolved, aims to challenge the chemistry tabulation procedure. At the opposite the coarse mesh does not allow full resolution of the flame thickness and exhibits significant unresolved contributions of subgrid scale flame wrinkling. Both LES solutions are extensively compared against experimental data. For both nonreacting and reacting conditions, the flow and spray aerodynamical properties are well captured by the two simulations. More interesting, the LES predicts accurately the flame lift-off height for both fine and coarse grid conditions. It confirms that the modeling methodology is able to capture the filtered turbulent flame propagation speed in a two-phase flow environment and within grid conditions representative of practical applications. Differences, observed for the droplet temperature, seem related to the evaporation model assumptions.
The Effect of Spent Mushroom Substrate and Cow Slurry on Sugar Content and Digestibility of Alfalfa Grass Mixtures
Authors: Malinowska E. , Jankowski K.
Published: March 2020

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the effect of different doses of spent mushroom substrate and cow slurry on sugar content and digestibility of hybrid alfalfa and grass mixtures. The main factors were different doses of organic material: mushroom substrate and slurry, and the following legume grass mixtures: M1-orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata), perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), and hybrid alfalfa (Medicago x varia T. Martyn); M2-orchard grass, hybrid alfalfa; M3-perennial ryegrass, hybrid alfalfa. In each growing season, the mixtures were harvested three times during three years of their full use. Sugar content and dry matter digestibility were determined with near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) using the NIRFlex N-500 spectrometer. Of all fertilizer treatments, the application of mushroom substrate at a dose of 20 t·ha−1 in combination with 40 m3 of slurry resulted in the best forage quality with its highest digestibility. In the mixture of perennial ryegrass and hybrid alfalfa increasing doses of mushroom substrate with decreasing doses of slurry lowered soluble sugar content and digestibility.
Gene Expression Analysis of Human Papillomavirus‐Associated Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: Qiu Qiancheng , Li Yazhen , Fan Zhiqiang , Yao Fen , Shen Wenjun , Sun Jiayu , Yuan Yumeng , Chen Jinghong , Cai Leshan , Xie Yanxuan , Liu Kaixi , Chen Xiang , Jiao Xiaoyang
Published: March 2020

Purpose. Human papillomavirus (HPV) antigens had been found in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissue, but little evidence demonstrates the association of HPV with oncogene mutations in CRC. We aim to elucidate the mutated genes that link HPV infection and CRC carcinogenesis. Methods. Cancerous and adjacent noncancerous tissues were obtained from CRC patients. HPV antigen was measured by using the immunohistochemical (IHC) technique. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in HPV‐positive and HPV‐negative tumor tissues were measured by using TaqMan Array Plates. The target genes were validated with the qPCR method. Results. 15 (31.9%) cases of CRC patients were observed to be HPV positive, in which HPV antigen was expressed in most tumor tissues rather than in adjacent noncancerous tissues. With TaqMan Array Plates analyses, we found that 39 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were upregulated, while 17 DEGs were downregulated in HPV‐positive CRC tissues compared with HPV‐negative tissues. Four DEGs (MMP‐7, MYC, WNT‐5A, and AXIN2) were upregulated in tumor vs. normal tissues, or adenoma vs. normal tissue in TCGA, which was overlapped with our data. In the confirmation test, MMP‐7, MYC, WNT‐5A, and AXIN2 were upregulated in cancerous tissue compared with adjacent noncancerous tissue. MYC, WNT‐5A, and AXIN2 were shown to be upregulated in HPV‐positive CRC tissues when compared to HPV‐negative tissues. Conclusion. HPV‐encoding genome may integrate into the tumor genomes that involved in multiple signaling pathways. Further genomic and proteomic investigation is necessary for obtaining a more comprehensive knowledge of signaling pathways associated with the CRC carcinogenesis.
An Investigation of Solving Third-Order Nonlinear Ordinary Differential Equation in Complex Domain by Generalising Prelle–Singer Method
Authors: Joohy Ali K. , Al-Juaifri Ghassan A. , Mechee Mohammed S.
Published: March 2020

A method to solve a family of third-order nonlinear ordinary complex differential equations (NLOCDEs) —nonlinear ODEs in the complex plane—by generalizing Prelle–Singer has been developed. The approach that the authors generalized is a procedure of obtaining a solution to a kind of second-order nonlinear ODEs in the real line. Some theoretical work has been illustrated and applied to several examples. Also, an extended technique of generating second and third motion integrals in the complex domain has been introduced, which is conceptually an analog to the motion in the real line. Moreover, the procedures of the method mentioned above have been verified.
Evaluation of X‐Ray Repair Cross‐Complementing Family Members as Potential Biomarkers for Predicting Progression and Prognosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Mei Jie , Wang Huiyu , Wang Runjie , Pan Jiadong , Liu Chaoying , Xu Juanying
Published: March 2020

The X‐ray repair cross‐complementing (XRCC) gene family has been revealed to participate in the carcinogenesis and development of numerous cancers. However, the expression profiles and prognostic values of XRCCs (XRCC1‐6) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have not been explored up to now. The transcriptional levels of XRCCs in primary HCC tissues were analyzed by UALCAN and GEPIA. The relationship between XRCCs expression and HCC clinical characteristics was evaluated using UALCAN. Moreover, the prognostic values of XRCCs expression and mutations in HCC patients were investigated via the GEPIA and cBioPortal, respectively. Last but not least, the functions and pathways of XRCCs in HCC were also predicted by cBioPortal and DVAID. The transcriptional levels of all XRCCs in HCC tissues were notably elevated compared with normal liver tissues. Meanwhile, upregulated XRCCs expression was positively associated with clinical stages and tumor grades of HCC patients. Survival analysis using the GEPIA database revealed that high transcription levels of XRCC2/3/4/5/6 were associated with lower overall survival (OS) and high transcription levels of XRCC1/2/3/6 were correlated with poor disease‐free survival (DFS) in HCC patients. Furthermore, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) demonstrated the possible mechanisms of XRCCs and their associated genes participating in the oncogenesis of HCC. Our findings systematically elucidate the expression profiles and distinct prognostic values of XRCCs in HCC, which might provide promising therapeutic targets and novel prognostic biomarkers for HCC patients.
Indicators of Violence Levels: Questionnaires and Predictive Mathematical Model
Authors: Leal-Enríquez E. , Gutiérrez-Antúnez A. R.
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we present, in detail, how a mathematical model that simulates the probable scenarios of intimate partner violence is linked to the application of any questionnaire of domestic violence already in use. This questionnaire assigns a weight of severity to each proposed inquiry for the types of psychological, physical, and sexual violence. We show a numerical procedure that must be performed to obtain the probable scenarios of violence in which the victim is involved, taking as key factor the loss of control of the perpetrator. With the numerical data obtained from the application of the mathematical model, the probable levels of violence that the victim could experience month to month for two cycles of violence are plotted, as well as the behaviors of the probable states of loss of control that the perpetrator would have during the next twelve months. Based on the results obtained, we generated a help table of indicators that could be used by victim assistance centers and/or health experts for decision-making schemes.
Investigating Methylene Blue Adsorption and Photocatalytic Activity of ZnO/CNC Nanohybrids
Authors: Nang An Vu , Van Tran T. T. , Nhan Ha T. C. , Van Hieu Le
Published: March 2020

Nanohybrids of zinc oxide/cellulose nanocrystals (ZnO/CNCs) were successfully prepared by using a low cost and green method for adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB). CNCs have been derived through the hydrolysis reaction by citric/hydrochloric acid from the pure cellulose isolated from Vietnamese Nypa fruticans trunk. The influence of the Zn2+ ion concentration on the morphology, microstructure, and thermal properties as well as the photocatalytic activity of the ZnO/CNC nanohybrids was investigated in detail. Analyses of FTIR spectra, XRD, and SEM indicated that the ZnO nanocrystals with the size of 50 nm formed and loaded on the surface of CNC. Based on the DRS spectra and the nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms (BET) analysis, the absorption of ultraviolet light with a strong absorption band around 400 nm was found for all the ZnO/CNC nanohybrids, and the values of specific surface areas (SBET) of materials can be controlled by changing the concentration ratio of Zn2+ ion and CNC. The TGA analysis demonstrated that the ZnO loading samples (ZnO/CNC) had the thermal degradation onset temperature higher than that of neat CNC. The effect of MB removal showed the results which were contributed not only by the adsorption ability of CNC but also by the photocatalytic activity of ZnO. The photocatalytic efficiency significantly depended on the content of ZnO loading. The maximum degradation of MB was about 95% in 150 min for the ZnO/CNC-1.0 sample in which the concentration ratio of zinc-precursor Zn(NO3)2·6H2O and CNC was 1.0.
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis of the Thyroid Leading to the Diagnosis of a Disseminated Form
Authors: Ben Nacef Ibtissem , Mekni Sabrine , Mhedhebi Chedi , Riahi Ines , Rojbi Imen , Nadia Mchirgui , Khiari Karima
Published: March 2020

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare sporadic proliferative disorder of Langerhans cells. LCH rarely involves the thyroid gland. We report herein a case of a disseminated chronic form of LCH with a diagnosis established by histological examination of the thyroid gland. It is about a 37-year-old female who underwent total thyroidectomy for a thyroid nodule of the right lobe. Histological study showed a granulomatous thyroiditis, and the immunohistochemistry study revealed a strong positivity of histiocytes for the CD1 antigen and for the S100 protein. The incidence of LCH involving the thyroid gland, either as an isolated lesion or as a part of multisystemic disease, is extremely rare.
Strangulation-Induced Thyrotoxicosis in a Patient with Undiagnosed Underlying Graves’ Disease
Authors: Lanham Theresa , Sullivan Abigayle , Lanham Erik , Donato Anthony
Published: March 2020

Thyrotoxicosis is a constellation of symptoms including palpitations, tremors, agitation, and heat intolerance, caused by excess thyroid hormone. It can be life-threatening in its most serious form. We present a rare case of thyrotoxicosis provoked by mechanical trauma to the neck via strangulation in a young female with a history of self-resolving postpartum symptoms of hyperthyroidism one year prior, but no formal diagnosis of thyroid dysfunction. Although hyperthyroidism and posttraumatic stress have many similar features, thyroid storm is a life-threatening disorder that needs immediate intervention.