bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
McCoy property of Hurwitz series rings
Authors: Nourozi Vahid , Rahmati Farhad , Ahmadi Morteza
Published: July 2020

Based on a theorem of McCoy on commutative rings, Nielsen called a ring [Formula: see text] right McCoy if for any nonzero polynomials [Formula: see text] over [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] implies [Formula: see text] for some [Formula: see text]. In this note, we introduce and investigate McCoy and [Formula: see text]-properties of Hurwitz series ring [Formula: see text] and its Hurwitz polynomial subring [Formula: see text]. We show that when [Formula: see text] is a reversible or duo ring and [Formula: see text] then the Hurwitz polynomial ring [Formula: see text] is McCoy.
On the non-abelian tensor square of all groups of order dividing p5
Authors: Ghorbanzadeh Taleea Jalaeeyan , Parvizi Mohsen , Niroomand Peyman
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we consider all groups of order dividing [Formula: see text]. We obtain the explicit structure of the non-abelian tensor square, non-abelian exterior square, tensor center, exterior center, the third homotopy group of suspension of an Eilenberg–MacLane space [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] of such groups.
Some classifications of graphs with respect to a set adjacency relation
Authors: Chiaselotti G. , Gentile T. , Infusino F. G.
Published: July 2020

For any finite simple undirected graph [Formula: see text], we consider the binary relation [Formula: see text] on the powerset [Formula: see text] of its vertex set given by [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] denotes the neighborhood of a vertex [Formula: see text]. We call the above relation set adiacence dependency (sa)-dependency of [Formula: see text]. With the relation [Formula: see text] we associate an intersection-closed family [Formula: see text] of vertex subsets and the corresponding induced lattice [Formula: see text], which we call sa-lattice of [Formula: see text]. Through the equality of sa-lattices, we introduce an equivalence relation [Formula: see text] between graphs and propose three different classifications of graphs based on such a relation. Furthermore, we determine the sa-lattice for various graph families, such as complete graphs, complete bipartite graphs, cycles and paths and, next, we study such a lattice in relation to the Cartesian and the tensor product of graphs, verifying that in most cases it is a graded lattice. Finally, we provide two algorithms, namely, the T-DI ALGORITHM and the O-F ALGORITHM, in order to provide two different computational ways to construct the sa-lattice of a graph. For the O-F ALGORITHM we also determine its computational complexity.
The Aftermath of Mass Violence: A Negative Methodology
Authors: Navaro Yael
Published: July 2020

Recent anthropological works on the aftermath of mass violence can be studied as having generated a negative methodology. New work has addressed the gaps, voids, and hollows of knowledge production in and about sites of mass atrocity and is developing novel research practices within these schisms. While considering the (im)possibility of research as the condition of possibility (as well as the question) for anthropological (and historical) work on the long durée of mass violence, this review highlights some adverse ethnographic methods that have emerged (and have been conceptualized) in the interstices. A critical positionality vis-à-vis anthropology's positive outlook for evidentiary presences in the field has moved scholars of mass atrocity and its aftermath toward methods that would tarry in and through the negative.
The Neolithic of Southeast Europe: Recent Trends
Authors: Chapman John , Souvatzi Stella
Published: July 2020

The prehistory of the Aegean, Balkans, and Carpathian Basin has changed dramatically in the last two decades. This review covers five aspects of these changes: ( a) the development of theoretical approaches, in which diversification from cultural archaeology has seen the spread of processual, postprocessual and later approaches; ( b) the acquisition of data, with the key major development being the proliferation of large-scale infrastructure projects; ( c) the synthesis of data, the most significant challenge being to make sense of the massive increase in paleo-environmental research, materials science, regional surveys, and site monographs; ( d) thematic questions, whose very diversity underscores the discipline's growth in these regions; and ( e) emergent trends, such as the creation of new forms of synthesis at the local, regional, and interregional scales, the theorizing and differentiation of new ways of relating people, places, plants, and animals and objects, and continuing diversification in the application of scientific techniques.
Defense mechanisms to increasing back pressure for hepatic oxygen transport and venous return in porcine fecal peritonitis
Authors: Liu Shengchen , do Amaral Campos Pedro Paulo Zanella , Casoni Daniela , Berger David , Kohler Andreas , Bloch Andreas , Bervini David , Setzer Florian , Cameron David R. , Z'Graggen Werner , Hana Anisa , Langer Rupert , Corrêa Thiago D. , Beldi Guido , Takala Jukka , Jakob Stephan M.
Published: July 2020

Sepsis impairs intrinsic mechanisms to attenuate effects of increasing back pressure on hepatic oxygen transport.
The Fuzzy PI Controller for PMSM’s Speed to Track the Standard Model
Authors: Vu Quynh Nguyen
Published: July 2020

This paper proposes a fuzzy PI controller to control the speed of a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM). The structure of the system includes the speed loop controller (SLC) and the current loop controller (CLC). The speed loop controller is the fuzzy PI and standard model (SM). The CLC includes vector control and the space vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM). It compiles two closed-loop control systems for the PMSM. This research uses a very high-speed integrated circuit hardware description language (VHDL) to implement the proposed algorithm and embed it into Matlab/Simulink for simulation. Based on the PMSM parameter, this article tests the controller’s correctness with some of the load cases by changing the combined inertia and viscous friction of rotor and load. After success in simulation, the system is tested again by experiment on the FPGA kit. The simulation and experiment results show that when the load changes, the PMSM speed is still stable. The novelty of this research is that it compares two kinds of controllers between simulation and experiment results.
ISAR Imaging Based on Multiple Measurement Vector Model Sparse Signal Recovery Algorithm
Authors: Feng Junjie
Published: July 2020

A multiple measurement vector (MMV) model blocks sparse signal recovery. ISAR imaging algorithm is proposed to improve ISAR imaging quality. Firstly, the sparse imaging model is built, and block sparse signal recovery algorithm-based MMV model is applied to ISAR imaging. Then, a negative exponential function is proposed to approximately block L0 norm. The optimization solution of smoothed function is obtained by constructing a decreasing sequence. Finally, the correction steps are added to ensure the optimal solution of the block sparse signal along the fastest descent direction. Several simulations and real data simulation experiments verify the proposed algorithm has advantages in imaging time and quality.
Elastostatic Stiffness Analysis for the US/UPS Parallel Manipulators
Authors: Zhang Weizhong , Ye Wei , Yang Chao
Published: July 2020

The virtual joint method (VJM) cannot calculate the strain energy stored in each rod. In order to solve the problem, a modeling method of the elastostatic stiffness was investigated for the UP/UPS parallel manipulators (PMs), taking the example of the 6-SPS PM. The modeling method was based on screw theory, Castigliano’s theorem, and strain energy (where U, P, and S, respectively, denote universal, prismatic, and spherical joints). First, the actuator and constraint wrenches of the mechanism were obtained by screw theory. Second, compact limb stiffness matrices were obtained in terms of strain energy and Castigliano’s second theorem. Finally, analytic expressions for the overall stiffness matrix of the mechanism and the amplitudes of the actuator force were obtained by adopting the virtual work principle and the balance equation for the mobile platform. All relative errors between the results of the analytical model and the finite element model are below 2%, which validates the effectiveness of the elastostatic stiffness model. The virtual work index was adopted to evaluate the stiffness performance of the mechanism, and the results show that the stiffness is not only related to position and orientation but also closely related to the directions of external loads. It is also demonstrated that the method has general adaptability for the stiffness analysis for the US/UPS PMs, laying the foundation for further reasonable dynamic design and optimization of such manipulators.
Acute and Subchronic Toxicity Profile of a Polyherbal Drug Used in Sri Lankan Traditional Medicine
Authors: Liyanagamage Donisha Shani Niharika Keembiya , Jayasinghe Susanthi , Attanayake Anoja Priyadarshani , Karunaratne Veranja
Published: July 2020

A polyherbal drug composed of leaves of Murraya koenigii L. Spreng, cloves of Allium sativum L., fruits of Garcinia quaesita Pierre, and seeds of Piper nigrum L. is a popular drug which has been used by indigenous practitioners in Sri Lanka for the treatment of diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia. The acute toxicity assessment was conducted, following a single oral dose of 0.25–2.0 g/kg in healthy rats, and rats were observed up to 14 days. The hot water extract (1.0 g/kg) and the water : acetone extract (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 g/kg) were administered to Wistar rats for 28 days in the subchronic study. Hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic activities (dose response studies) of cold water, hot water, and water : acetone extracts of the polyherbal mixture were evaluated at the doses of 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 g/kg in healthy and streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats (70 mg/kg, ip), respectively. Acute toxicity study showed that the polyherbal drug did not cause any change in animals throughout the experimental period of 14 days. The administration of the hot water extract and the water : acetone extract of the polyherbal drug for 28 days did not produce changes in the selected biochemical and hematological parameters in Wistar rats (p > 0.05). The histological assessment corroborated the biochemical findings with no significant treatment‐related changes in the kidney and liver. The treatment of polyherbal drug significantly lowered the serum glucose concentration compared to the diabetic control rats (p < 0.05) while it did not lead to a severe reduction of glucose concentration in healthy rats. The hot water and water : acetone extracts of the polyherbal drug showed a statistically significant improvement on total area under the glucose tolerance curve in diabetic rats (p < 0.05), reflecting dose‐dependent antihyperglycemic effects of the drug. Based on the results, we conclude that the aforementioned antidiabetic polyherbal remedy is free of toxic/adverse effects at the equivalent human therapeutic dose in healthy Wistar rats and would be a safe therapeutic agent for long‐term treatments.
On Coupled Systems for Hilfer Fractional Differential Equations with Nonlocal Integral Boundary Conditions
Authors: Wongcharoen Athasit , Ntouyas Sotiris K. , Tariboon Jessada
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we study a coupled system involving Hilfer fractional derivatives with nonlocal integral boundary conditions. Existence and uniqueness results are obtained by applying Leray-Schauder alternative, Krasnoselskii’s fixed point theorem, and Banach’s contraction mapping principle. Examples illustrating our results are also presented.
The Emerging Role of Vitamin D and Vitamin D Receptor in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Lei Min , Liu Zhangsuo , Guo Jia
Published: July 2020

Diabetic nephropathy (DN), one of the most common and severe microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus (DM), is an important risk factor for DM patient’s death. Nowadays, DN has become the leading cause of end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) in most countries without effective therapeutic methods. Recently, the renoprotective effects mediated by vitamin D (VD) and vitamin D receptor (VDR) have been evidenced. VD, a kind of steroid with the active form 1,25(OH)2D3, has been known for the crucial roles in the modulation of serum calcium and phosphorus concentrations. It exerts important functions by binding with its receptor VDR.VDR, a transcription factor located at chromosome 12 containing 9 exons, is one of the nonsteroid nuclear hormone receptor superfamily, which participates in transcriptional regulation of genes in tissue‐ and cell‐specific ways. Increasing evidences have demonstrated that VD/VDR signaling pathway possesses a variety of kidney‐protective effects in DN patients, such as antiproteinuria, antifibrosis, anti‐inflammatory, and preventing podocyte damage. Although there are many studies on the role of the VD/VDR signaling pathway in DN, the effects and mechanisms still need to be further explained. This review summarized the multiple roles of VD/VDR in podocyte injury, tubule lesions, interstitial fibrosis, and inflammation, as well as the clinical applications about DN to explore much more and effective therapeutic methods for DN.
Physical Properties of Nanoparticles That Result in Improved Cancer Targeting
Authors: Zein Randa , Sharrouf Wissam , Selting Kim
Published: July 2020

The therapeutic efficacy of drugs is dependent upon the ability of a drug to reach its target, and drug penetration into tumors is limited by abnormal vasculature and high interstitial pressure. Chemotherapy is the most common systemic treatment for cancer but can cause undesirable adverse effects, including toxicity to the bone marrow and gastrointestinal system. Therefore, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems have been developed to reduce the adverse effects of traditional chemotherapy by enhancing the penetration and selective drug retention in tumor tissues. A thorough knowledge of the physical properties (e.g., size, surface charge, shape, and mechanical strength) and chemical attributes of nanoparticles is crucial to facilitate the application of nanotechnology to biomedical applications. This review provides a summary of how the attributes of nanoparticles can be exploited to improve therapeutic efficacy. An ideal nanoparticle is proposed at the end of this review in order to guide future development of nanoparticles for improved drug targeting in vivo.
Gender-Specific Longitudinal Association of Sleep Duration with Blood Pressure among Children: Evidence from CHNS 2004–2015
Authors: Huang Lili , Lyu Jiajun , Long Zichong , Xia Yuanqing , Chen Yiting , Ye Xiuxia , Li Shenghui
Published: July 2020

Purpose. We conducted this study to add the evidence regarding the gender-specific association between sleep duration and blood pressure (BP) in children. Methods. A secondary analysis was performed among 1000 children aged 7–13 years, who had at least two rounds of survey records in China Health and Nutrition Survey through 2004–2015. Generalized estimating equation was used to explore the gender-specific association of sleep duration with BP. The subgroup analysis was applied in those participants with normal weight. Results. The time trend of decreasing sleep duration, along with increasing BP level, was observed in each age group during the survey period. Short sleepers (<9 hours per day) have higher level of both systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) than long sleepers in girls (all p < 0.05). By contrast, only SBP was higher in short sleepers among boys (p < 0.05). There was gender difference in the association between sleep duration and DBP (p for interaction <0.05). The stratification analysis showed that short sleep duration could consistently predict a higher level of diastolic BP (DBP) in both crude (β = 2.968, 95% CI: 1.629, 4.306) and adjusted models (β = 1.844, 95% CI: 0.273, 3.416) only in girls. Sleep duration was also analyzed as continuous variable, and the very similar associations were observed. Moreover, the established associations can be verified among children with normal weight. Conclusions. There was a time trend of decreasing sleep duration alongside increasing BP among children from 2004 to 2015. Short sleep duration was independently associated with increased DBP; however, only girls were susceptible to the association.
A Key Node Mining Method Based on Acupoint‐Disease Network (ADN): A New Perspective for Exploring Acupoint Specificity
Authors: Shi Han , Liu Yang , Cui Enuo , Zhao Hai , Gao Wei , Zhu Jian , Yang Dongxiang
Published: July 2020

In the process of treating pro‐diseases with acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) doctors may fine‐tune acupuncture prescriptions according to different prior experiences. Different prescriptions will affect the efficiency and effect of acupuncture treatment, and even excessive acupoint selection may cause psychological pressure on patients. We still lack an effective means to analyze the meridian system and acupoint specificity to clarify the mapping relationship between acupoints and diseases. Given the inability of modern medical technology to provide effective evidence support for meridians and acupoints, we combined acupuncture theory with network science for an interdisciplinary discussion. In this paper, we constructed a weighted undirected acupoint‐disease network (ADN) based on clinical acupuncture prescription literature and proposed a high‐specificity key node mining method based on ADN. Combined with the principle of acupoint selection in TCM, the proposed method balanced the contribution of local areas to the network based on the distribution characteristics of meridians and selected 30 key acupoints with high influence on the global topology according to the evaluation index of key nodes. Finally, we compared the proposed method with the other six classical node importance evaluation algorithms in terms of resolution, network loss, and accuracy. The comprehensive results show that the marked key acupoint nodes make outstanding contributions to the connectivity, topological structure, and weighted benefits of the network, and the stability and specificity of the algorithm guarantee the reliability of the key acupoint nodes. We consider that these key acupoints with high centrality in ADN can be used as core acupoints to help researchers explore targeted and high‐impact acupoint combinations under resource constraints and optimize existing acupuncture prescriptions.
Cryptanalysis and Improvement of a Group Authentication Scheme with Multiple Trials and Multiple Authentications
Authors: Xia Zhe , Liu Yining , Hsu Ching-Fang , Chang Chin-Chen
Published: July 2020

Authentication is one of the most fundamental services in cryptography and information security. Compared with the traditional authentication methods, group authentication allows a group of users to be authenticated at once rather than authenticating each of these users individually. Therefore, it is more desirable in the group oriented environment, such as multicast/conference communications. In this paper, we first demonstrate that a recent group authentication scheme by Chien (Security and Communication Networks, 2017) suffers some security flaws, i.e. an adversary in the asynchronous communication model can pretend to be a legitimate group member without being detected. We then use the Anonymous Veto Networks (AV-net) to patch Chien’s scheme, so that its security can be rigorously proved in a well-defined security model.
Prediction of the Required Supporting Pressure for a Shallow Tunnel in Layered Rock Strata Based on 2D and 3D Upper Bound Limit Analysis
Authors: Wang Hong-tao , Liu Chi , Liu Ping , Zhang Xin , Yang Yong
Published: July 2020

Determination of the required supporting pressure is the premise of tunnel support design. Only when the support design meets the requirements can the tunnel be safe and stable during construction and operation. This paper focuses on a shallow tunnel in layered rock strata and proposes a method for predicting the required supporting pressure. In this method, the 2D and 3D failure mechanisms are constructed, respectively. The analytical solutions of the supporting pressure corresponding to the two cases are derived on the basis of upper bound theorem and Hoek–Brown failure criterion. Then, the proposed method is validated by comparing with the results of existing research studies. Furthermore, a shallow tunnel in two‐layer rock strata is chosen to illustrate the difference between the two solutions. The comparison shows that the supporting pressure in the 2D case is greater than that in the 3D case in general and it tends to be conservative for tunnel design. Conversely, the 3D solution may help to reduce the support cost. Furthermore, the change laws of the supporting pressure and failure range corresponding to varying parameters are obtained. These results may practically provide theoretical references for tunnel support design in layered rock strata.
A Power Factor Correction Buck Converter-Fed Switched Reluctance Motor with Torque Ripple Suppression
Authors: Jing Jianli
Published: July 2020

The switched reluctance motor (SRM) suffers the main drawback of torque ripples, and a buck converter-fed SRM motor drive has been proposed to suppress torque ripples and correct a power factor in this paper. The buck converter reduces the torque ripple by supplying appropriate DC-link voltage; meanwhile, the buck converter realizes a function of power factor correction at AC mains. An enhanced performance has been obtained on speed control and power quality improvement. An experimental SRM motor drive is formed, and the experimental results show that the proposed drive possesses an improved function with suppression of torque ripples and power factor correction.
Improvement of Skeletal Muscle Regeneration by Platelet‐Rich Plasma in Rats with Experimental Chronic Hyperglycemia
Authors: Rtail Raed , Maksymova Olena , Illiashenko Viacheslav , Gortynska Olena , Korenkov Oleksii , Moskalenko Pavlo , Nasser Mohamad , Tkach Gennadii
Published: July 2020

Herein, the structural effect of autologous platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) on posttraumatic skeletal muscle regeneration in rats with chronic hyperglycemia (CH) was tested. 130 white laboratory male rats divided into four groups (I—control; II—rats with CH; III—rats with CH and PRP treatment; and IV—rats for CH confirmation) were used for the experiment. CH was simulated by streptozotocin and nicotinic acid administration. Triceps surae muscle injury was reproduced by transverse linear incision. Autologous PRP was used in order to correct the possible negative CH effect on skeletal muscle recovery. On the 28th day after the injury, the regenerating muscle fiber and blood vessel number in the CH+PRP group were higher than those in the CH rats. However, the connective tissue area in the CH group was larger than that in the CH+PRP animals. The amount of agranulocytes in the regenerating muscle of the CH rats was lower compared to that of the CH+PRP group. The histological analysis of skeletal muscle recovery in CH+PRP animals revealed more intensive neoangiogenesis compared to that in the CH group. Herewith, the massive connective tissue development and inflammation signs were observed within the skeletal muscle of CH rats. Obtained results suggest that streptozotocin‐induced CH has a negative effect on posttraumatic skeletal muscle regeneration, contributing to massive connective tissue development. The autologous PRP injection promotes muscle recovery process in rats with CH, shifting it away from fibrosis toward the complete muscular organ repair.
Mouse Models of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis: Head-to-Head Comparison of Dietary Models and Impact on Inflammation and Animal Welfare
Authors: Kroh Andreas , Ivanova Vanina , Drescher Hannah , Andruszkow Julia , Longerich Thomas , Nolting Jochen , Eickhoff Roman , Heise D. , Rheinwalt Karl P. , Neumann Ulf P. , Ulmer Florian T.
Published: July 2020

A variety of dietary nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) mouse models are available, and choosing the appropriate mouse model is one of the most important steps in the design of NASH studies. In addition to the histopathological and metabolic findings of NASH, a sufficient mouse model should guarantee a robust clinical status and good animal welfare. Three different NASH diets, a high-fat diet (HFD60), a western diet (WD), and a cafeteria diet (CAFD), were fed for 12 or 16 weeks. Metabolic assessment was conducted at baseline and before scheduled sacrifice, and liver inflammation was analyzed via fluorescence-associated cell sorting and histopathological examination. Clinical health conditions were scored weekly to assess the impact on animal welfare. The HFD60 and WD were identified as suitable NASH mouse models without a significant strain on animal welfare. Furthermore, the progression of inflammation and liver fibrosis was associated with a decreased proportion of CD3+ NK1.1+ cells. The WD represents a model of advanced-stage NASH, and the HFD60 is a strong model of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic syndrome. However, the CAFD should not be considered a NASH model.
Multiplicity Results for Variable-Order Nonlinear Fractional Magnetic Schrödinger Equation with Variable Growth
Authors: Zhou Jianwen , Zhou Bianxiang , Wang Yanning
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we prove the multiplicity of nontrivial solutions for a class of fractional-order elliptic equation with magnetic field. Under appropriate assumptions, firstly, we prove that the system has at least two different solutions by applying the mountain pass theorem and Ekeland’s variational principle. Secondly, we prove that these two solutions converge to the two solutions of the limit problem. Finally, we prove the existence of infinitely many solutions for the system and its limit problems, respectively.
Barriers and Strategies to Lifestyle and Dietary Pattern Interventions for Prevention and Management of TYPE-2 Diabetes in Africa, Systematic Review
Authors: Bekele Hirut , Asefa Adisu , Getachew Bekalu , Belete Abebe Muche
Published: July 2020

Background. Diabetes mellitus is a major chronic illness in Africa that requires lifelong lifestyle interventions and pharmacological therapy. Lifestyle change is the most important aspect of diabetes care and includes diabetes self-management education and support, medical nutrition therapy, physical activity, smoking cessation counseling, and psychosocial care. Purpose. The purpose of this project was to review published articles that investigate lifestyle and dietary pattern interventions for diabetes prevention and management in Africa. Barriers to lifestyle interventions and strategies to overcome the barriers are also reviewed in this study. Methods. The article search was conducted in an electronic database search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library. Studies were included if they were published between 2011 and 2019, if they were conducted in an African country, and were written in the English language. Results. Articles reviewed included several that examined the basic lifestyle and dietary pattern changes for all patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, on self-care behavior of type 2 diabetes patients, on the cost of diabetes in Africa, and on barriers for adherence to lifestyle and dietary changes in Africa, with strategies to address those barriers. Conclusion. Lifestyle interventions including regular physical exercise, weight management, and adherence to health care professionals’ recommendations on a healthy diet are the cornerstone in the prevention and management of diabetes in Africa. The main barriers to adherence were both systemic (population changes, poor access, western cultural influences, and low-quality healthcare) and personal (poverty and cost, educational status, and perceptions about the disease) in nature. The strategies for the barriers include health education programs, advocacy, and capacity building.
Regenerative Endodontic Therapy in the Management of Immature Necrotic Permanent Dentition: A Systematic Review
Authors: Alghamdi Faisal T. , Alqurashi Alaa E.
Published: July 2020

Background and Objective. Management of immature permanent teeth exhibiting necrotic pulp is clinically challenging. An appropriate diagnosis, case selection, and good management ensure good outcomes. The objective of this review reviews all up-to-date data in regard to endodontic regeneration therapy in the management of immature permanent teeth with necrotic pulp and which conducts are most used and appropriate for this procedure in human and animal investigations. Materials and Methods. The electronic databases PubMed and Google Scholar were used to search the literature for relevant studies after applying specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies that fulfilled both the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in this systematic review. The search was conducted by two independent reviewers following the PRISMA guidelines. Results. Only 46 studies that fulfilled both the inclusion and exclusion criteria, which were conducted within the last 10 years, were included in this systematic review. These studies investigated different aspects of regenerative endodontic therapy including different types of scaffolds, intracanal medications, pulpal space/barriers, root maturation stage, follow-up duration, and updated studies on their use in the management of immature necrotic permanent teeth. Conclusions. This review concluded the compiled data observed that endodontic regenerative therapy was more efficient in treating immature necrotic permanent teeth and offered a greater advantage that should lead to wider acceptance among endodontists for effective results compared to different treatment options. However, more clinical trials with a standardized protocol and defined clinical, radiographic, and histopathological outcomes with longer follow-up periods are warranted.
Multiple Mechanisms of Flaxseed: Effectiveness in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Palla Amber Hanif , Gilani Anwar-ul-Hassan , Bashir Samra , Ur Rehman Najeeb
Published: July 2020

Ethnopharmacological Relevance. Natural products, like Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum), have traditionally been used in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is known to contain multiple constituents which may account for its effectiveness, as IBD is a multifaceted disease. Aim of the Study. In the current study, we aimed to assess pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of Flaxseed in IBD. Materials and Methods. Aqueous‐methanolic crude extracts of Flaxseed (Fs.Cr) and Flaxseed oil were tested against 6% acetic acid‐ (AA‐) induced colitis in BALB/c mice. Microscopic damage parameters of the hematoxylin and eosin‐stained and periodic acid‐Schiff‐alcian blue‐stained sections of the colon were scored to be assessed. Possible antispasmodic mechanism was studied on isolated rabbit jejunum, while antibacterial activity was assessed in vitro for microbes implicated in IBD. Results. In AA‐induced colitis, Flaxseed oil was found to be more effective in reducing mortality and colonic ulcers than Fs.Cr at 500 mg/kg dose. Fs.Cr was more efficacious in increasing mucin content as compared to oil, exhibiting slightly greater anti‐inflammatory effect (50% vs 35%) and reducing depth of lesion (55% vs 42.31%, respectively). Antispasmodic activity of Fs.Cr (0.03 and 0.1 mg/ml) was mediated by phosphodiesterase inhibitors (PDEI, possibly PDE‐4 subtype) with a resultant increase in cAMP levels. Flaxseed oil PDEI activity was mild (1 and 3 mg/ml). Fs.Cr (0.1 and 0.3 mg/ml) was potent in exhibiting anticholinergic activity, similar to dicyclomine, whereas Flaxseed oil showed anticholinergic effect at 1 and 3 mg/ml. Flaxseed oil (9 and 14 µg/ml) was bactericidal against enteropathogenic E.coli (EPEC), enterotoxigenic E.coli (ETEC), and enteroaggregative E.coli (EAEC), whereas Fs.Cr exhibited bactericidal effect against EPEC at 100 µg/ml. Conclusions. Results of this study, taken together with previous studies, suggest that Flaxseed possesses anti‐inflammatory, antibacterial, and antispasmodic action through multiple pathways and thus offers promising potential to be developed for IBD.
Managing Sleep and Behavioral Problems in a Preschooler with SATB2-Associated Syndrome
Authors: Kumar Nihit , Zarate Yuri A.
Published: July 2020

SATB2-associated syndrome is an autosomal dominant, multisystemic disorder with associated sleep and behavioral abnormalities. Evidence is limited on appropriate management strategies in this population. We describe the medical management of a four-year-old child with poor sleep and significant behavioral problems. After failing initial treatment with melatonin, we initiated treatment clonidine along with high doses of trazodone for sleep. Daytime treatment with quetiapine was added to successfully manage behavioral issues. We present the challenges associated with treatment strategies in children with this syndrome.
Osteosynthesis of a Multifragment Femoral Shaft Fracture and Peri-Implant Refracture in an 83-Year-Old Patient with Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Ballhause Tobias M. , Gessler Roland , Priemel Matthias H. , Frosch Karl-Heinz , Schlickewei Carsten W.
Published: July 2020

Introduction. Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is the term for a heterogenic group of conatal diseases that affect the bone formation. Eight different OI types are known. Patients with types III and IV frequently suffer from fractures without adequate trauma. The literature gives plenty advice for fracture treatment in pediatric OI patients, but there is less for adults, and no recommendations can be found for geriatric OI patients. Case Presentation. We report on an 83-year-old male who suffered from OI type IV. He was able to walk with an individually adapted gait orthosis. In an accident, the patient sustained a distal, multifragment, femoral shaft fracture. The fracture was openly reduced and fixated with a retrograde inserted elastic stable intramedullary nail (ESIN). Three months later, the patient was capable of walking without crutches. Due to another accident, he sustained a peri-implant refracture without failure of the ESIN. We immobilized the leg, and it achieved bony healing without reosteosynthesis. Eleven weeks later, he was again able to mobilize himself with full weight bearing. Discussion. We present a unique case of osteosynthesis in a distal, multifragment, femoral shaft fracture in a geriatric OI patient. No recommendations for the treatment of mature patients with OI can be found in the literature. We present our treatment concept and technique of osteosynthesis with an ESIN. Despite another accident with a peri-implant refracture, sufficient bony healing occurred, which allowed the patient to freely mobilize himself again.
In Search of the Consequence Severity of Traffic Conflict
Authors: Jiang Ruoxi , Zhu Shunying , Wang Pan , Chen QiuCheng , Zou He , Kuang Shiping
Published: July 2020

Currently, many studies on the severity of traffic conflicts only considered the possibility of potential collisions but ignored the consequences severity of potential collisions. Aiming toward this defect, this study establishes a potential collision (serious conflict) consequences severity model on the basis of vehicle collision theory. Regional vehicles trajectory data and historical traffic accident data were obtained. The field data were brought into the conflict consequences severity model to calculate the conflict severity rate of each section under different TTC thresholds. For comparison, the traditional conflict rate of each section under different TTC thresholds that considered only the number of conflicts was also calculated. Results showed that the relationship between conflict severity rate and influencing factors was somehow different. The conflict severity rate seemed to have a higher correlation with accident rate and accident severity rate than conflict rate did. The TTC threshold value also affected the correlation between conflicts and accidents, with high and low TTC threshold indicating a lower correlation. The results showed that conflict severity rate that considered each single conflict consequence severity was a little better than the traditional conflict rate that considered only the numbers of conflicts in reflecting real risks as a new conflict evaluation indicator. The severity of traffic conflicts should consider two dimensions: the possibility and consequence of potential collisions. Based on this, we propose a new traffic safety evaluation method that takes into account the severity of the consequences of the conflict. More data and prediction models are needed to conduct more realistic and complex research in the future to ensure reliability of this new method.
Effect of Silver Nanoparticles on the Morphology of Toxoplasma gondii and Salmonella braenderup
Authors: Vergara-Duque Diego , Cifuentes-Yepes Liliana , Hincapie-Riaño Tatiana , Clavijo-Acosta Felipe , Juez-Castillo Graciela , Valencia-Vidal Brayan
Published: July 2020

The study of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has recently increased due to the different antimicrobial properties that have been evaluated. Studies have shown that AgNPs decrease the cell viability of some parasitic species and inhibit bacterial growth and biofilm formation. Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite with different stages of development including the oocyst, and it can survive in the environment for a long time generating contamination of vegetables and water. This parasite has the ability to generate congenital toxoplasmosis and chorioretinitis in humans. Another human pathogen present in water is Salmonella braenderup, this bacterium, when consumed, causes gastroenteritis and typhoid fever. We evaluate the affectation that causes the AgNPs in oocysts of T. gondii and S. braenderup using fluorescence microscopy and scanning electron microscopy techniques. The results showed that at different ratios of AgNPs and microorganisms, as well as at different exposure time during the treatments, morphological alteration of the cell structure of oocysts of T. gondii and S. braenderup was evidenced, suggesting a potential treatment method for the inhibition of the viability of these microorganisms.
Fecal Immunologic Test Results and Diagnostic Colonoscopy in a Mexican Population at Average Risk for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Manzano-Robleda Maria Del Carmen , Espinosa-Tamez Priscilla , Potter Michael B. , Lajous Martin , Van Loon Katherine , Zhang Li , Jimenez-Peña Alejandro , Sánchez Del Monte Julio , Mohar Alejandro , Hernández-Guerrero Angélica
Published: July 2020

Colorectal cancer is preventable and treatable by screening and early detection. Fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) for average risk individuals is an effective strategy for screening. Incidence and mortality in Mexico is increasing and large-scale screening programs do not yet exist. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of FIT-based colorectal cancer screening program in Mexico City. For more than 15 months, average risk individuals in Mexico City were invited to participate at Mexico's Instituto Nacional de Cancerologia (INCan, Mexico City, Mexico). Participants received an FIT kit for stool collection, results ≥20 ng/mL were referred for high quality colonoscopy. Participants' results were classified according to the most advanced clinical finding as: adenocarcinoma, high-risk adenomas, low-risk adenomas, serrated lesions, hyperplastic polyps, and no polyps. Sequential analyses were performed to assess the positive predictive value (PPV) of FIT. A total of 810 participants were eligible, 737 (91.0%) returned the FIT and 112 (15.2%) had an abnormal result. Of these participants, 87 (77.7%) completed colonoscopy. Clinical findings of participants included: seven (8.1%) adenocarcinomas, 18 (20.7%) high-risk adenomas, 23 (26.4%) low-risk adenomas, one (1.2%) serrated lesions, 14 (16.1%) hyperplasic polyps, and 24 (27.6%) no polyps. The PPV of FIT using the ≥20 ng/mL was 8.1% for cancer and 20.7% for high-risk adenomas. In conclusion, colorectal cancer screening with FIT is feasible at INCan in Mexico City, where resources are available. Further studies are needed to determine feasibility of colorectal cancer screening in other settings, as well as optimal hemoglobin detection cut-off points to maximize the population benefits of colorectal cancer screening with FIT in Mexico.
Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer in China: Spatial Epidemiologic Evidence from Screening Areas
Authors: Li Peng , Jing Jing , Li Rui , Ge Miao , Jia Peng , Hu Wenbiao , Qi Xin , Wei Wen-Qiang , Zhuang Guihua
Published: July 2020

Upper gastrointestinal cancer (UGIC) including esophageal cancer and gastric cancer, which has been a significant burden in China. Few studies have explored the spatial pattern and association of incidence and mortality using nationwide data. This study aims to explore the spatial pattern and association of incidence and mortality between esophageal cancer and gastric cancer, and identify high-risk areas of the cancers to provide scientific evidence for tailoring endoscopic screening programs. We collected UGIC data in 2014 from a National Cancer Report, and then adopted methods of correlation analysis and spatial statistics to identify high-risk areas on the cancers and to explore the pattern. The results show a spatial autocorrelation on the spatial distribution of incidence and mortality of esophageal and gastric cancers, and the relative risks were from 2.52 (95% CI (confidence interval), 2.37–2.67; P < 0.001) to 3.80 (95% CI, 3.46–4.18; P < 0.001) in primary risk areas, respectively. Moreover, esophageal cancer shows an upward and then downward trend from west to east, and from south to north, yet gastric cancer exhibits an upward and then downward trend only from south to north. This study indicates habitants in overlapping risk areas have heavier cancer burdens, and suggests esophageal cancer and gastric cancer have a significant correlation. Therefore, more endoscopic screening attention should focus on overlapping risk areas.
Chemotherapeutic Tumor Microparticles Elicit a Neutrophil Response Targeting Malignant Pleural Effusions
Authors: Xu Pingwei , Tang Ke , Ma Jingwei , Zhang Huafeng , Wang Dianheng , Zhu Liyan , Chen Jie , Wei Keke , Liu Jincheng , Fang Haiqing , Tang Liang , Zhang Yi , Xie Jing , Liu Yuying , Meng Rui , Liu Li , Dong Xiaorong , Yang Kunyu , Wu Gang , Ma Fei , Huang Bo
Published: July 2020

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is a frequent complication of various cancers and often leads to a poor quality of life, prognosis, and life expectancy, and its management remains palliative. New approaches that can effectively treat MPE are highly desirable. Here, we show that methotrexate (MTX)-packaging tumor cell–derived microparticles (MTX-MP) act as an effective immunotherapeutic agent to treat patients with MPE by mobilizing and activating neutrophils. We find that MTX-MP perfusion via a pleural catheter elicits the recruitment of neutrophils in patients through macrophage-released CXCL1 and CXCL2. By performing ex vivo experiments, we find that the recruited neutrophils are activated and release reactive oxygen species (ROS) and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) to kill tumor cells. Neutrophil-released NETs were also able to seal off the damaged endothelium, facilitating MPE resolution in vitro and in tumor-bearing mice. These findings reveal the potential for use of cell-derived materials to package drugs as an immunotherapeutic agent against MPE.
Pearls in Mitigating Application Pain of Topical Nonsteroidal Agents
Authors: Madsen Steven , Price Kyla N. , Shi Vivian Y. , Lio Peter A.
Published: July 2020

Background: Topical steroid-sparing agents (SSA), such as tacrolimus, pimecrolimus, and crisaborole, represent an important therapeutic option in the treatment of inflammatory dermatoses such as atopic dermatitis. While these agents lack the common side effects associated with topical corticosteroids, they all share application site pain as an important adverse effect. Summary: Based on the available evidence and our experience, we suggest the following 7 practical strategies for decreasing the pain associated with SSA use. (1) Use a topical corticosteroid for a few days to reduce inflammation before starting the SSA treatment. (2) Use SSAs strategically. (3) Apply moisturizer before applying SSAs. (4) Store moisturizers in the refrigerator. (5) Ask the patient to apply the SSA on a small test area before broader application. (6) Apply the SSA on dry rather than on damp skin. (7) Consider using aspirin when appropriate for the patient.
Qualidade de vida e sintomas de transtornos alimentares em bailarinos
Authors: Reis Nycolle Martins , Pelegrini Andreia , Boing Leonessa , Guimarães Adriana Coutinho de Azevedo
Published: July 2020

Analisar a relação entre os domínios da qualidade de vida e os sintomas de transtornos alimentares. Participaram 156 bailarinos do 31º Festival de Dança de Joinville – Santa Catarina, os quais responderam a um questionário autoaplicável contendo as variáveis sociodemográficas, medidas antropométricas, qualidade de vida (WHOQOL-bref.), Teste de Atitudes Alimentares (EAT-26) e Bulimic Inventory Test Edinburgh (BITE). Observou-se associação significativa entre presença e ausência dos sintomas de anorexia em relação ao sexo feminino e masculino (p=0,001) e as três modalidades de dança (p=0,018), bem como na presença e ausência da escala sintomática de bulimia (p=0,044) na associação com o sexo feminino e masculino. Foram encontradas relações entre o domínio físico da qualidade de vida e os sintomas de anorexia (p=0,012) e de bulimia na escala de gravidade (p=0,015). Em relação à escala sintomática de bulimia percebe-se relação com os domínios físico (p=0,000), psicológico (p= 0,032) e social (p= 0,010) da qualidade de vida. Os bailarinos do sexo feminino apresentam tendência para a presença de sintomas de anorexia e sintomas de bulimia, bem como as modalidades de ballet clássico e dança contemporânea podem ser fator influenciador. Encontrou-se forte associação entre a presença de sintomas de transtornos alimentares aos domínios da qualidade de vida.
As representações de corpo feminino nos discursos de mestrandas em educação física
Authors: Silva Morgana Claudia , Pires Antônio Geraldo Magalhães Gomes , Lara Larissa Michelle
Published: July 2020

No presente estudo objetivou-se identificar e analisar as representações sociais sobre corpo instituídas no imaginário de mestrandas vinculadas a programa de pós-graduação stricto-sensu em educação física de universidades públicas do Estado do Paraná. A pesquisa de natureza exploratória com análise qualitativa dos dados foi desenvolvida com aporte da teoria das representações sociais, o que proporcionou as condições básicas para a compreensão do objeto investigativo. Para a identificação dos sentidos das representações, extraídos por meio de entrevistas com 13 mestrandas, utilizou-se da técnica de Análise do Discurso. Os resultados da pesquisa apontam que as representações sociais do corpo das mestrandas continuam apoiadas nas relações cotidianas e nos discursos que estão imbricados na sociedade, no qual o corpo perfeito, magro, moldado/sarado ainda continua sendo o padrão social de beleza instituído no imaginário social da sociedade de forma geral.