bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Focus Geometry on the Hard Rock‐Cutting Performance of an Abrasive Waterjet
Authors: Cha Yohan , Oh Tae-Min , Cho Gye-Chun
Published: January 2020

Abrasive waterjets are being increasingly used in civil engineering for rock and concrete cutting, particularly for the demolition or repair of old structures. The energy of an abrasive waterjet is primarily provided by the accelerated abrasive. The momentum transfer during mixing and acceleration determines the abrasive velocity, which affects the cutting performance. Meanwhile, the geometry of the focus at which mixing occurs influences the momentum transfer efficiency. In this study, the effects of the focus geometry on the optimum abrasive flow rate (AFR) and momentum transfer characteristics in hard rock cutting were investigated. Experiments were conducted using granite specimens to test the AFR under different focus geometry conditions such as diameter and length. The results show that the focus geometry significantly affects the maximum cutting depth and optimum AFR. The maximum cutting energy was analyzed based on the cutting efficiency of a single abrasive particle. In addition, the momentum transfer parameter (MTP) was evaluated from the empirical relationship between the maximum energy and the cutting depth for granitic rocks. Accordingly, a model for estimating the MTP based on the AFR was developed. It is expected that the results of this study can be employed for the optimization of waterjet rock cutting.
Emerging Issues in Occupational Disease: Mental Health in the Aging Working Population and Cognitive Impairment—A Narrative Review
Authors: Giorgi Gabriele , Lecca Luigi I. , Leon-Perez Jose M. , Pignata Silvia , Topa Gabriela , Mucci Nicola
Published: January 2020

Cognitive impairment has often been reported in scientific literature as a concern derived from chronic exposure to work‐related stress. Organizational factors can contribute to the onset of this concern especially in a susceptible population such as elderly workers. The aim of our study was to review the last five years of scientific literature, focusing on experimental and epidemiological studies, possible mechanisms implicated in the onset of cognitive decline due to work‐related stress, and the recent organizational strategies to prevent detrimental effects of stress on cognitive processes. A literature search was performed in scientific platforms Medline and Web of Science, by means of specific string search terms, restricting the search to the years of publication 2014–2019. Thirty‐three articles were identified and qualitatively evaluated, reporting narratively the main point of interest. At this stage, six articles were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. Only a few articles considered the population of the elderly workers, often with a short follow‐up period. Strategies to manage stress with organizational procedures are scarce. Mechanisms implicated in the development of cognitive impairment due to stress are not fully explained and seem to include a chronical decrease in the inhibitory process of neurological pathways. Further research that focused on strategies to manage stress in elderly workers, with the aim of preventing cognitive impairment processes, is warranted.
Fabrication and Application of a 3D‐Printed Poly‐ε‐Caprolactone Cage Scaffold for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Wang Siyi , Li Rong , Xu Yongxiang , Xia Dandan , Zhu Yuan , Yoon Jungmin , Gu Ranli , Liu Xuenan , Zhao Wenyan , Zhao Xubin , Liu Yunsong , Sun Yuchun , Zhou Yongsheng
Published: January 2020

Poly‐ε‐caprolactone (PCL) is a promising synthetic material in bone tissue engineering (BTE). Particularly, the introduction of rapid prototyping (RP) represents the possibility of manufacturing PCL scaffolds with customized appearances and structures. Bio‐Oss is a natural bone mineral matrix with significant osteogenic effects; however, it has limitations in being constructed and maintained into specific shapes and sites. In this study, we used RP and fabricated a hollow‐structured cage‐shaped PCL scaffold loaded with Bio‐Oss to form a hybrid scaffold for BTE. Moreover, we adopted NaOH surface treatment to improve PCL hydrophilicity and enhance cell adhesion. The results showed that the NaOH‐treated hybrid scaffold could enhance the osteogenesis of human bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMMSCs) both in vitro and in vivo. Altogether, we reveal a novel hybrid scaffold that not only possesses osteoinductive function to promote bone formation but can also be fabricated into specific forms. This scaffold design may have great application potential in bone tissue engineering.
Sailing Speed Optimization Model for Slow Steaming Considering Loss Aversion Mechanism
Authors: Zhao Yuzhe , Zhou Jingmiao , Fan Yujun , Kuang Haibo
Published: January 2020

This paper analyses loss aversion mechanism (LAM) of the shipping company’s decision-makers about the risk-based decision (RBD) for slow steaming and generalizes a novel optimization model for the sailing speed through the trade-off between fuel consumption, SOx emissions and delivery delay. The value functions against the benchmark speed were constructed based on physiological expected utility (PEU) to reveal the features of loss aversion, and the objective function was derived from these value functions with the aim to optimize the sailing speed. After that, a Genetic Algorithm (GA) solution with fitness function and special operators was built to solve the proposed model. Finally, the model was applied to pinpoint the PEU for the optimal sailing speed against the benchmark speed, and the sensitivity of the model was discussed with different benchmark speeds, value function weights and input parameters. The analysis shows that the proposed model can assist the slow steaming RBD based on the inner feelings of the shipping company’s decision-makers, offering a novel tool for sailing speed optimization.
Marital Status and Survival in Patients Diagnosed with Melanoma
Authors: Maas J. A. , Monreal A. J. , Diaz E. L. , Castro G. , Rodriguez de la Vega P. , Varella M.
Published: January 2020

Introduction. Previous research suggests the presence of a spouse may considerably affect melanoma detection rates through more frequent examinations, better access to healthcare, and improved social support. Yet, the role of marital status on melanoma survival is currently unknown. The aim of this study is to assess whether marital status is associated with survival following melanoma diagnosis. Methods. We performed secondary analysis of data from all participants of the Florida Cancer Data System (FCDS) and included adult melanoma patients diagnosed between 2001 and 2009 with follow-up information available until 2015. Marital status was categorized as single, married, divorced, or widowed. The primary outcome was survival interval after melanoma diagnosis, which was assessed according to the time from the date of diagnosis to the time of death or last contact. Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the independent association between marital status and survival. Results. We assessed data from 36,578 melanoma patients. Married patients were significantly more likely to survive than single patients (Hazard ratio (HR) = 0.65; 99% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.57–0.74; P<0.001) after adjusting for age, sex, race, ethnicity, geographic location, insurance status, tobacco use, primary site, stage, and histology. There was no evidence of effect modification by gender (P=0.189). Conclusions. Married patients, including both men and women, had a 35% reduction in the risk of death after melanoma diagnosis compared with single patients, and mechanisms independent of earlier detection, such as social support, may play a role in survival in patients with melanoma.
Monitoring the Levels of Biogenic Amines in Canned Fish Products Marketed in Ghana
Authors: Weremfo Alexander , Eduafo Meinster Kodjo , Gyimah Hakim Agyei , Abassah-Oppong Samuel
Published: January 2020

An ion-pair HPLC method with postcolumn o-phthalaldehyde (OPA) derivatization and fluorescence detection was validated for quantitative determination of five biogenic amines (histamine, tyramine, cadaverine, putrescine, and agmatine) in canned fish products (mackerel, sardine, and tuna) marketed in Ghana. The validated method exhibited excellent selectivity and good linearity (R2 > 0.9990) for all the amines. The limits of detection and quantification for studied biogenic amines were in the range of 0.32–0.78 mg·kg−1 and 1.10–2.57 mg·kg−1, respectively. Also, a satisfactory recovery was obtained for all the amines (82.1–101.4%), and the relative standard deviations were lower than 9.3% under repeatability conditions for the studied amines. Subsequently, the method was applied to the analysis of biogenic amines in canned fish products to estimate the safety of Ghanaian consumers. The maximum levels of histamine, tyramine, cadaverine, putrescine, and agmatine detected in the analysed canned fish products were 64.05 mg·kg−1, 27.44 mg·kg−1, 27.23 mg·kg−1, 18.74 mg·kg−1, and 52.72 mg·kg−1, respectively. Thus, the levels of biogenic amines detected in the canned fish products were lower than the acceptable levels and, therefore, can be considered relatively safe for human consumption.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Ultrasound and MRI in the Mapping of Deep Pelvic Endometriosis Using the International Deep Endometriosis Analysis (IDEA) Consensus
Authors: Indrielle-Kelly T. , Frühauf F. , Fanta M. , Burgetova A. , Lavu D. , Dundr P. , Cibula D. , Fischerova D.
Published: January 2020

Objectives. The primary aim was to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the mapping of deep pelvic endometriosis (DE) in a diseased population. The secondary aim was to offer first insights into the clinical applicability of the new International Deep Endometriosis Analysis group (IDEA) consensus for sonographic evaluation, which was also adapted for MRI and surgical reporting in this study. Methods. The study was a prospective observational cohort study. In this study, consecutive women planned for surgical treatment for DE underwent preoperative mapping of pelvic disease using TVS and MRI (index tests). The results were compared against the intraoperative findings with histopathological confirmation (reference standard). In case of disagreement between intraoperative and pathology findings, the latter was prioritised. Index tests and surgical findings were reported using a standardised protocol based on the IDEA consensus. Results. The study ran from 07/2016 to 02/2018. One‐hundred and eleven women were approached, but 60 declined participation. Out of the 51 initially recruited women, two were excluded due to the missing reference standard. Both methods (TVS and MRI) had the same sensitivity and specificity in the detection of DE in the upper rectum (UpR) and rectosigmoid (RS) (UpR TVS and MRI sensitivity and specificity 100%; RS TVS and MRI sensitivity 94%; TVS and MRI specificity 84%). In the assessment of DE in the bladder (Bl), uterosacral ligaments (USL), vagina (V), rectovaginal septum (RVS), and overall pelvis (P), TVS had marginally higher specificity but lower sensitivity than MRI (Bl TVS sensitivity 89%, specificity 100%, MRI sensitivity 100%, specificity 95%; USL TVS sensitivity 74%, specificity 67%, MRI sensitivity 94%, specificity 60%; V TVS sensitivity 55%, specificity 100%, MRI sensitivity 73%, specificity 95%; RVS TVS sensitivity 67%, specificity 100%, MRI sensitivity 83%, specificity 93%; P TVS sensitivity 78%, specificity 97%, MRI sensitivity 91%, specificity 91%). No significant differences in diagnostic accuracy between TVS and MRI were observed except USL assessment (p = 0.04) where MRI was significantly better and pouch of Douglas obliteration (p = 0.04) where TVS was significantly better. Overall, there was a good agreement between reference standards and both index tests (TVS kappa value (κ) = 0.727 [p ≤ 0.001), MRI κ = 0.755 [p = p ≤ 0.001]). Conclusion. We found that both imaging techniques had overall good agreement with the reference standard in the detection of deep pelvic endometriosis. This is the first study to date involving the IDEA consensus for ultrasound, its modified version for MRI, and intraoperative reporting of deep pelvic endometriosis in clinical practice.
Analysis of Sasang Constitutional Medicine as an Optimal Preventive Care Strategy for Hemophilia Patients
Authors: Lee Mi Kyung , Hwang Minwoo , Oh Hyunjoo , Kim Kyoung Soo
Published: February 2020

Introduction. Medical improvements have allowed hemophilia patients to anticipate an increased quality of life and life expectancy similar to that of the general population. Analysis of the potential disease symptoms of hemophilia patients based on a survey of Sasang Constitutional Medicine (SCM) is important for optimal preventive care and adjunctive therapy to avoid life‐threating complications. Aim. To predict potential disease symptoms from the viewpoint of SCM as a preventive care strategy for hemophilia patients. Methods. Sixty‐one hemophilia patients responded to a survey on Sasang constitutional classification, hemophilia disease pattern, and original symptoms. Results. In terms of SCM type, the 61 of hemophilia patients included 37 Tae‐Eum (60.7%), 18 So‐Yang (29.5%), and 6 So‐Eum (12.5%). Hemophilia was found to be higher in Tae‐Eum type and lower in So‐Yang and So‐Eum types, while considering the distributional rate of Korean Sasang types. Most of the patients with Tae‐Eum type had Joyeol or Ganyeol. Furthermore, the incidences of diabetes and high blood pressure were greater in Tae‐Eum type than in those of other types. Conclusion. In order to increase the quality of life and overall life expectancy, hemophilia patients with Tae‐Eum type should be treated through management according to SCM along with medicine against hemophilia as long‐term preventive care. Diabetes and high blood pressure should be regularly monitored in patients with Tae‐Eum type.
Primary Intraosseous Synovial Sarcoma with Molecular Confirmation: Expanding and Clarifying the Spectrum of This Rare Neoplasm
Authors: McHugh Kelsey E. , Reith John D. , Mesko Nathan W. , Kilpatrick Scott E.
Published: January 2020

Synovial sarcoma is a well-known malignant tumor usually originating within deep soft tissues of the lower extremities of adolescents and young adults. Rare radiologically confirmed examples of primary bone synovial sarcoma have been documented, generally in isolated case reports. Herein, we report two cases of primary intraosseous synovial sarcoma, with molecular confirmation, involving the left humerus of a 45-year-old female and the right fourth metatarsal bone in a 36-year-old male. Additionally, we clarify the spectrum of primary intraosseous synovial sarcoma by separately analyzing reported cases with radiographic confirmation of bone origin and molecular support for the diagnosis. There are clinicopathologic differences between those tumors with documented molecular confirmation and those lacking such confirmation, specifically regarding their anatomic distribution (p<0.0001). Regarding the radiology of our two cases, the humeral lesion appeared almost entirely intramedullary without soft tissue extension; the midfoot lesion demonstrated a destructive, metatarsal-centered bone lesion, initially thought clinically to represent primary bone osteosarcoma. The diagnoses of monophasic synovial sarcoma were rendered via core needle biopsies, with molecular FISH confirmation of SYT gene rearrangement. Clinical follow-up data was only available for the female patient with the primary humeral lesion, who underwent surgical resection, with no local recurrence or distant metastasis at 7 months postsurgery. To our knowledge, these are the first reported examples of molecularly confirmed, primary intraosseous synovial sarcomas of the humerus and metatarsal bones. Primary intraosseous synovial sarcomas with molecular confirmation differ clinically from those lacking it; however, the demographic features and metastatic potential appear similar to primary soft tissue synovial sarcoma.
State-Estimator-Based Asynchronous Repetitive Control of Discrete-Time Markovian Switching Systems
Authors: Liu Xinghua , Ma Guoqi , Pagilla Prabhakar R. , Ge Shuzhi Sam
Published: February 2020

This paper investigates the problem of asynchronous repetitive control for a class of discrete-time Markovian switching systems. The control goal is to track a given periodic reference without steady-state error. To achieve this goal, an asynchronous repetitive controller that renders the overall closed-loop switched system mean square stable is proposed. To reflect realistic scenarios, the proposed approach does not assume that the system modes are available synchronously to the controller but instead designs a detector that provides estimated values of the system modes to the controller. Based on a detected-mode-dependent estimator, the plant and asynchronous repetitive controller are formulated as a closed-loop stochastic system. By utilizing tools from stochastic Lyapunov–Krasovskii stability theory, we develop sufficient conditions in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) such that the closed-loop system is mean square stable and also simultaneously establish a synthesis procedure for obtaining the gain matrices. We provide numerical simulations on an electrical circuit switched system to illustrate the approach.
Elevated Expression of the Long Noncoding RNA IFNG-AS1 in the Peripheral Blood from Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Peng Huiyong , Ren Shuting , Liu Yingzhao , Zhou Huimin , Tang Xinyi , Yang Jun , Tian Jie , Xu Ping , Xu Huaxi , Wang Shengjun
Published: January 2020

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been increasingly recognized as key immune molecules that participate in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Previous studies have demonstrated that the lncRNA Ifng-AS1, a key scaffold that contributes to the transcription of IFN-γ, depends on T-bet for active transcription in Th1 cells. However, the effect of its human ortholog, IFNG-AS1, on the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains unclear. In this study, we found that the transcript level of lncRNA IFNG-AS1 was increased in the peripheral blood of RA patients. IFNG, as a target gene of IFNG-AS1, was overexpressed and positively correlated with the transcript level of IFNG-AS1 in the RA patients. Our data also showed that the transcript level of T-bet was upregulated and positively correlated with IFNG-AS1 expression. T-bet regulated the transcription of IFNG-AS1 in human CD4+ T cells in vitro. Furthermore, strong positive correlations were observed between the increased transcript level of IFNG-AS1 and the serum level of rheumatoid factor, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and the C-reactive protein in RA patients, and patients positive for anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies had increased levels of IFNG-AS1. Finally, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis suggested that IFNG-AS1 might be a potential biomarker of RA. Taken together, our findings indicated that IFNG-AS1, guided by T-bet, is augmented in the peripheral blood of RA patients and may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of RA by regulating the expression of IFNG.
Multiplicity of Weak Positive Solutions for Fractional p & q Laplacian Problem with Singular Nonlinearity
Authors: Yang Dandan , Bai Chuanzhi
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we prove the existence and multiplicity of positive solutions for a class of fractional p & q Laplacian problem with singular nonlinearity. Our approach relies on the variational method, some analysis techniques, and the method of Nehari manifold.
Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharide (GLP) Inhibited the Progression of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma via the miR-188/BCL9/β-Catenin Pathway
Authors: Zeng Zhigang , Xiao Kaiyan
Published: February 2020

Objective. The effects of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP) on the proliferation and migration of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells (HSC-3) were investigated in this study. Methods. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells (HSC-3) were cultured in vitro and were treated with different concentrations of GLP. CCK-8 assay and scratch assay were then used to detect the inhibitory effect of GLP on these cells. qRT-PCR and western blot were used to measure the expression changes of the genes involved in the miR-188 and β-catenin signaling pathways. Results. GLP had significant cytotoxicity to HSC-3 cells and was capable of inhibiting the proliferation and migration of HSC-3 cells. GLP upregulated the expression of miR-188 in HSC-3 cells and via which inhibited the proliferation and migration of HSC-3 cells. In addition, miR-188 inhibited the activation of the β-catenin signaling pathway through its target BCL9. Conclusions. GLP inhibited the proliferation and migration of OSCC cells (HSC-3) by regulating the miR-188/BCL9/β-catenin signaling pathway. The results in this study provided a theoretical basis for the treatment of OSCC with GLP.
Dielectric Properties, AC Conductivity, and Electric Modulus Analysis of Bulk Ethylcarbazole‐Terphenyl
Authors: Bouaamlat Hussam , Hadi Nasr , Belghiti Najat , Sadki Hayat , Naciri Bennani Mohammed , Abdi Farid , Lamcharfi Taj-dine , Bouachrine Mohammed , Abarkan Mustapha
Published: January 2020

Electrical and dielectric properties for bulk ethylcarbazole‐terphenyl (PEcbz‐Ter) have been studied over frequency range 1 kHz–2 MHz and temperature range (R.T –120°C). The copolymer PEcbz‐Ter was characterised by using X‐ray diffraction. The frequency dependence of the dielectric constant () and dielectric loss () has been investigated using the complex permittivity. of the copolymer decreases with increasing frequency and increases with temperature. AC conductivity (σac) data were analysed by the universal power law. The behaviour of σac increases with increasing temperature and frequency. The change of the frequency exponent (s) with temperature was analysed in terms of different conduction mechanisms, and it was found that the correlated barrier‐hopping model is the predominant conduction mechanism. The electric modulus was used to analyze the relaxation phenomenon in the material.
Simultaneous Bilateral Neck of Femur Fracture in a Young Adult with Underlying Metabolic Disturbances
Authors: Alkaramani Eslam , Salameh Motasem , Adam Mohammed , George Bivin , Alser Yaser , Ahmed Ghalib
Published: January 2020

Introduction. Simultaneous bilateral fractures of the femoral neck are considered very rare injuries. Few cases were reported in the literature. Most cases were reported in elderly patients with underlying bone pathology.Case Report. We report a case of a 31-year-old male patient who presented to the emergency department with bilateral hip pain and inability to bear weight after a sudden loss of consciousness and fall while running on a treadmill. The patient had a recent history of anabolic steroids, growth hormone, and other supplements used for bodybuilding. Radiological studies confirmed bilateral neck of femur fracture. Laboratory investigations revealed pan-pituitary axis insufficiency and mild vitamin D deficiency, and his EEG suggested a seizure attack. The patient was treated with three 6.5 mm cannulated cancellous screws on one side and a sliding hip screw on the other side and was followed with strict physical therapy and rehabilitation plan. 6 months from the injury, a radiographic bilateral union achieved with the patient back to his normal daily activity and noncontact sports.Conclusion. We report this rare case of bilateral neck of femur fracture in a young adult after a generalized seizure attack with underlying metabolic disturbances. Ruling out other biological underlying etiologies, early diagnosis and early fracture anatomic reduction and fixation are crucial to decrease potential complications such as avascular necrosis and fracture nonunion.
Existence of Positive Solution for Fractional Differential Systems with Multipoint Boundary Value Conditions
Authors: Lv Zhi-Wei
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we apply the fixed-point theorems of γ concave and −γ convex operators to establish the existence of positive solutions for fractional differential systems with multipoint boundary conditions. Two examples are given to support our results.
The Profile of Timing Dialysis Initiation in Patients with End-stage Renal Disease in China: A Cohort Study
Authors: Liu Ying , Wang Luping , Han Xianfeng , Wang Yang , Sun Xuefeng , Jiang Hongli , Shi Wei , Liu Wenhu , Fu Ping , Ding Xiaoqiang , Lin Hongli , Chen Xiangmei ,   on behalf of the DIFE Study Group
Published: January 2020

Background: Hemodialysis is the main approach for renal replacement therapy in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in China. The timing of dialysis initiation is one of the key factors influencing patient survival and prognosis. Over the past decade, the relationship between the timing of dialysis initiation and mortality has remained unclear in patients with ESRD in China. Methods: Patients who commenced maintenance hemodialysis from 2009 to 2014 from 24 hemodialysis centers in Mainland China were enrolled in the study (n = 1,674). Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the year they started hemodialysis (patients who started hemodialysis from 2009 to 2011, and patients who started hemodialysis from 2012 to 2014). Analysis of the yearly change in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at the initiation of dialysis was performed for the 2 groups. Meanwhile, the patients were divided into 3 groups based on their eGFR at the initiation of dialysis (<4, 4–8, and >8 mL/min/1.73 m2). For these 3 groups, the relationship between the eGFR at the start of dialysis and mortality were analyzed. Results: The average eGFRs were 5.68 and 5.94 mL/min/1.73 m2 for 2009–2011 and 2012–2014, respectively. Compared with the 2009–2011 group, the proportion of patients with diabetes in 2012–2014 increased from 26.7 to 37.7%. The prognosis of patients with different eGFRs at the start of dialysis was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival curves. After adjusting for confounding factors through a Cox regression model, no significant difference was demonstrated among the 3 groups (<4 mL/min/1.73 m2 was used as the reference, in comparison with 4–8 mL/min/1.73 m2 [p = 0.681] and >8 mL/min/1.73 m2 [p = 0.403]). Conclusion: In Mainland China, the eGFR at the start of dialysis did not change significantly over time from 2008 to 2014 and had no association with the mortality of patients with ESRD.
A Comparison of Existing Questionnaires for Identifying the Causes of Interstitial and Rare Lung Diseases
Authors: Polke Markus , Kirsten Detlef , Teucher Birgit , Kahn Nicolas , Geissler Klaus , Costabel Ulrich , Herth Felix J.F. , Kreuter Michael
Published: January 2020

Background: A thorough diagnostic process is essential with regard to prognosis and treatment of the more than 200 different types of interstitial lung diseases (ILD). Key to this complex process is a comprehensive medical history. For this, a template is recommended and questionnaires are increasingly used. Yet, the optimal questionnaire has not been established. Objectives: We aimed to compare well-established questionnaires that are used in the diagnostic process of interstitial and rare lung diseases. Methods: Via a structured internet search and ILD expert interviews, we identified 6 different questionnaires for the diagnosis of ILDs: the questionnaires developed by the German Respiratory Society (DGP), American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP), National Jewish Health (NJH), Österreichische Röntgengesellschaft/Gesellschaft für Medizinische Radiologie und Nuklearmedizin (OERG), University of California, Los Angeles Health (UCLA), and University of California, San Francisco Medical Center (UCSF). We compared the forms, lengths, and contents of the 6 questionnaires regarding symptoms, comorbidities, drug history, previous ILD therapies, family history, smoking habits, occupational history, exposures, travel history, and former diagnostic procedures. Results: The questionnaires differed in length and content. The UCLA questionnaire focuses on connective tissue diseases extensively, while the NJH questionnaire captures previous diagnostics in detail. The OERG questionnaire is condensed, while the other 5 questionnaires are very detailed. The UCSF questionnaire contains a personal assessment part for the patient. For the majority of the questions, the patient can choose options from a preselected list of possible answers. The DGP questionnaire offers the patient the opportunity to add additional information in the form of free text to some of the key questions. Conclusions: Questionnaires are an important tool in the diagnostic process of ILDs. Further validation and adjustment to clinical guidelines will help to improve existing questionnaires. Future work must aim to develop an internationally accepted template.
Two phase motor fed from controlled supply
Authors: Shousha H. , Ali Sara , B. Kotb A.
Published: January 2020

Compared to single phase operation, a good utilization of machine material is achieved by supplying the two-phase stator windings from a controlled supply. It is necessary to start from the known equivalent circuits of both forward and backward components to obtain the relations between the sequence and the phase voltage values. In this method of control, the torque expression is driven in a simple form and the torque speed characteristic are computed and plotted for different values of the time-phase angle. The operation of 2-phase motor from single phase supply carried out by connecting one stator phase directly to the voltages source, with exciting the second stator phase through the phase shifting element. In this method, the starting and the maximum torque values can be controlled by changing the stator field from a pulsating of (0°) to a pure rotating field at (90°).
Registro de audiência em rádio comunitária
Authors: Galvão Júnior Lourival Da Cruz , Carniello Monica Franchi , Lage Maria Júlia Veneziani
Published: February 2020

As rádios comunitárias brasileiras buscam se estabelecer perante as audiências, mas o desconhecimento do perfil dos ouvintes atinge a comunicação com as comunidades, pois as pesquisas sobre radiodifusão atendem somente aos interesses das rádios comerciais. Este estudo busca identificar o perfil da audiência de uma emissora comunitária do bairro Alto de São Pedro, município de Taubaté, Estado de São Paulo, a Rádio Liberdade FM, visando incitar, pela perspectiva indutiva, a reflexão sobre a relevância das rádios comunitárias. A metodologia foi baseada em pesquisa de campo com abordagem quantitativa e pesquisa bibliográfica e documental e evidenciou distanciamento entre a emissora e a comunidade, que revelou não ter suas demandas comunicacionais atendidas.
Evaluation of comprehensive care for older adults in primary care services
Authors: Placideli Nádia , Castanheira Elen Rose Lodeiro , Dias Adriano , Silva Pedro Alcântara Da , Carrapato Josiane Lozigia Fernandes , Sanine Patricia Rodrigues , Machado Dinair Ferreira , Mendonça Carolina Siqueira , Zarili Thais Fernanda Tortorelli , Nunes Luceime Olivia , Monti José Fernando Casquel , Hartz Zulmira Maria De Araújo , Nemes Maria Ines Battistella
Published: February 2020

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the performance of comprehensive care for older adults in primary care services in the Brazilian Unified Health System in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: A total of 157 primary care services from five health regions in midwestern São Paulo responded, from October to December 2014, the pre-validated 2014 questionnaire for primary care services assessment and monitoring. We selected 155 questions, based on national policies and guidelines on this theme. The responses indicate the service performance in older adults’ care, clustered into three areas of analysis: health care for active and healthy aging (45 indicators, d1), chronic noncommunicable diseases care (89 indicators, d2), and support network in aging care (21 indicators, d3). Performance was measured by the sum of positive (value 1) or negative (value 0) responses for each indicator. Services were clustered according to k-means of the performance scores of each domain. After weighting the domains (Z tests), we estimated the associations between the scores of each domain and independent management variables (typology, planning and evaluation of services), with simple and multiple linear regression. RESULTS: Chronic noncommunicable diseases care (d2) showed, for all clusters, better average performance (55.7) than domains d1 (35.4) and d3 (39.2). Service performance in the general area of planning and evaluation associates with the performance of older adults’ care. CONCLUSIONS: The evaluated services had incipient implementation of comprehensive care for older adults. The evaluation framework can contribute to processes to improve the quality of primary health care.
Evidence-Based Medical Management of Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Bevan Graham H. , White Solaru Khendi T.
Published: January 2020

Peripheral artery disease is an atherosclerotic disease of the lower extremities associated with high cardiovascular mortality. Management of this condition may include lifestyle modifications, medical management, endovascular repair, or surgery. The medical approach to peripheral artery disease is multifaceted and includes cholesterol reduction, antiplatelet therapy, anticoagulation, peripheral vasodilators, blood pressure management, exercise therapy, and smoking cessation. Adherence to this regimen can reduce limb-related complications like critical limb ischemia and amputation, as well as systemic complications of atherosclerosis like stroke and myocardial infarction. Relative to coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease is an undertreated condition. In this article, we explore the evidence behind medical therapies for the management of peripheral artery disease.
IgE Contributes to Atherosclerosis and Obesity by Affecting Macrophage Polarization, Macrophage Protein Network, and Foam Cell Formation
Authors: Zhang Xian , Li Jie , Luo Songyuan , Wang Minjie , Huang Qin , Deng Zhiyong , de Febbo Caroline , Daoui Aida , Liew Pei Xiong , Sukhova Galina K. , Metso Jari , Jauhiainen Matti , Shi Guo-Ping , Guo Junli
Published: January 2020

Objective:

By binding to its high-affinity receptor FcεR1, IgE activates mast cells, macrophages, and other inflammatory and vascular cells. Recent studies support an essential role of IgE in cardiometabolic diseases. Plasma IgE level is an independent predictor of human coronary heart disease. Yet, a direct role of IgE and its mechanisms in cardiometabolic diseases remain incompletely understood.

Approach and Results:

Using atherosclerosis prone
Apoe
−/−
mice and IgE-deficient
Ige
−/−
mice, we demonstrated that IgE deficiency reduced atherosclerosis lesion burden, lesion lipid deposition, smooth muscle cell and endothelial cell contents, chemokine MCP (monocyte chemoattractant protein)-1 expression and macrophage accumulation. IgE deficiency also reduced bodyweight gain and increased glucose and insulin sensitivities with significantly reduced plasma cholesterol, triglyceride, insulin, and inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, including IL (interleukin)-6, IFN (interferon)-γ, and MCP-1. From atherosclerotic lesions and peritoneal macrophages from
Apoe
−/−
Ige
−/−
mice that consumed an atherogenic diet, we detected reduced expression of M1 macrophage markers (CD68, MCP-1, TNF [tumor necrosis factor]-α, IL-6, and iNOS [inducible nitric oxide synthase]) but increased expression of M2 macrophage markers (Arg [arginase]-1 and IL-10) and macrophage-sterol-responsive-network molecules (complement C3, lipoprotein lipase, LDLR [low-density lipoprotein receptor]-related protein 1, and TFR [transferrin]) that suppress macrophage foam cell formation. These IgE activities can be reproduced in bone marrow-derived macrophages from wild-type mice, but muted in cells from FcεR1-deficient mice, or blocked by anti-IgE antibody or complement C3 deficiency.

Conclusions:

IgE deficiency protects mice from diet-induced atherosclerosis, obesity, glucose tolerance, and insulin resistance by regulating macrophage polarization, macrophage-sterol-responsive-network gene expression, and foam cell formation.
Identification of a Primary Renal AT
2
Receptor Defect in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Kemp Brandon A. , Howell Nancy L. , Gildea John J. , Keller Susanna R. , Carey Robert M.
Published: January 2020

Rationale:

Previous studies identified a defect in Ang III (angiotensin III [des-aspartyl
1
-angiotensin II])–elicited AT
2
R (Ang type-2 receptor)-mediated natriuresis in renal proximal tubule cells of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR).

Objective:

This study aimed to delineate in prehypertensive SHR kidneys the receptor or postreceptor defect causing impaired AT
2
R signaling and renal sodium (Na
+
) retention by utilizing the selective AT
2
R agonist compound-21 (C-21).

Methods and Results:

Female 4-week-old Wistar Kyoto and SHR rats were studied after 24-hour systemic AT
1
R (Ang II type-1 receptor) blockade. Left kidneys received 30-minute renal interstitial infusions of vehicle followed by C-21 (20, 40, and 60 ng/[kg·min], each dose 30 minutes). Right kidneys received vehicle infusions. In Wistar Kyoto, C-21 dose-dependently increased urine Na
+
excretion from 0.023±0.01 to 0.064±0.02, 0.087±0.01, and 0.089±0.01 µmol/min (
P
=0.008,
P
<0.0001, and
P
<0.0001, respectively) and renal interstitial fluid levels of AT
2
R downstream signaling molecule cGMP (cyclic guanosine 3',5' monophosphate) from 0.91±0.3 to 3.1±1.0, 5.9±1.2 and 5.3±0.5 fmol/mL (
P
=nonsignificant,
P
<0.0001, and
P
<0.0001, respectively). In contrast, C-21 did not increase urine Na
+
excretion or renal interstitial cGMP in SHR. Mean arterial pressure was slightly higher in SHR but within the normotensive range and unaffected by C-21. In Wistar Kyoto, but not SHR, C-21 induced AT
2
R translocation to apical plasma membranes of renal proximal tubule cells, internalization/inactivation of NHE-3 (sodium-hydrogen exchanger-3) and Na
+
/K
+
ATPase (sodium-potassium-atpase) and phosphorylation of AT
2
R-cGMP downstream signaling molecules Src (Src family kinase), ERK (extracellular signal-related kinase), and VASP (vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein). To test whether cGMP could bypass the natriuretic defect in SHR, we infused 8-bromo-cGMP. This restored natriuresis, Na
+
transporter internalization/inactivation, and Src and VASP phosphorylation, but not apical plasma membrane AT
2
R recruitment. In contrast, 8-bromo-cAMP administration had no effect on natriuresis or AT
2
R recruitment in SHR.

Conclusions:

The results demonstrate a primary renal proximal tubule cell AT
2
R natriuretic defect in SHR that may contribute to the development of hypertension. Since the defect is abrogated by exogenous intrarenal cGMP, the renal cGMP pathway may represent a viable target for the treatment of hypertension.

Visual Overview:

An online visual overview is available for this article.
Association Between Homocysteine and Vascular Calcification Incidence, Prevalence, and Progression in the MESA Cohort
Authors: Karger Amy B. , Steffen Brian T. , Nomura Sarah O. , Guan Weihua , Garg Parveen K. , Szklo Moyses , Budoff Matthew J. , Tsai Michael Y.
Published: January 2020

Background

While elevated homocysteine has been associated with calcification in several studies, its importance as a cardiovascular risk factor remains unclear. This study examines the relationship between homocysteine and vascular and valve calcification in the MESA (Multi‐ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis) cohort.

Methods and Results

MESA
participants with baseline homocysteine measurements and cardiac computed tomography scans were included (N=6789). Baseline and follow‐up assessment of vascular (coronary artery [CAC], descending thoracic aorta [DTAC]) and valve (aortic valve [AVC], mitral annular [MAC]) calcification was performed. Prevalence ratio/relative risk regression was used to assess the relationship of homocysteine with prevalent and incident calcification, and multivariable logistic regression was used to assess associations between homocysteine and calcification progression. Elevated homocysteine was associated with greater relative risk of prevalent and incident
CAC
and incident
DTAC
. We also identified a strong association between elevated homocysteine and
CAC
and
DTAC
progression. Elevated homocysteine was found to confer a >2‐fold increased risk of severe
CAC
progression (defined as Δ
CAC
≥100/year) and an ≈1.5‐fold increased risk for severe
DTAC
progression (defined as Δ
DTAC
≥100/year).

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating an association between elevated homocysteine and both incidence and progression of coronary and extra‐coronary vascular calcification. Our findings suggest a potential role for elevated homocysteine as a risk factor for severe vascular calcification progression. Future studies are warranted to further assess the utility of homocysteine as a biomarker for vascular calcification incidence and progression.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/
. Unique identifier:
NCT
00005487.
Bringing Critical Race Praxis Into the Study of Electrophysiological Substrate of Sudden Cardiac Death: The ARIC Study
Authors: Jensen Kelly , Howell Stacey J. , Phan Francis , Khayyat‐Kholghi Maedeh , Wang Linda , Haq Kazi T. , Johnson John , Tereshchenko Larisa G.
Published: January 2020

Background

Race is an established risk factor for sudden cardiac death (SCD). We sought to determine whether the association of electrophysiological substrate with SCD varies between black and white individuals.

Methods and Results

Participants from the ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities) study with analyzable ECGs (n=14 408; age, 54±6 years; 74% white) were included. Electrophysiological substrate was characterized by ECG metrics. Two competing outcomes were adjudicated: SCD and non‐SCD. Interaction of ECG metrics with race was studied in Cox proportional hazards and Fine‐Gray competing risk models, adjusted for prevalent cardiovascular disease, risk factors, and incident nonfatal cardiovascular disease. At the baseline visit, adjusted for age, sex, and study center, blacks had larger spatial ventricular gradient magnitude (0.30 mV; 95% CI, 0.25–0.34 mV), sum absolute QRST integral (18.4 mV*ms; 95% CI, 13.7–23.0 mV*ms), and Cornell voltage (0.30 mV; 95% CI, 0.25–0.35 mV) than whites. Over a median follow‐up of 24.4 years, SCD incidence was higher in blacks (2.86 per 1000 person‐years; 95% CI, 2.50–3.28 per 1000 person‐years) than whites (1.37 per 1000 person‐years; 95% CI, 1.22–1.53 per 1000 person‐years). Blacks with hypertension had the highest rate of SCD: 4.26 (95% CI, 3.66–4.96) per 1000 person‐years. Race did not modify an association of ECG variables with SCD, except QRS‐T angle. Spatial QRS‐T angle was associated with SCD in whites (hazard ratio, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.25–1.53) and hypertension‐free blacks (hazard ratio, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.09–2.12), but not in blacks with hypertension (hazard ratio, 1.15; 95% CI, 0.99–1.32) (
P
‐interaction=0.004).

Conclusions

Race did not modify associations of electrophysiological substrate with SCD and non‐SCD. Electrophysiological substrate does not explain racial disparities in SCD rate.
Co-Loading of Isoniazid-Grafted Phthalocyanine-in-Cyclodextrin and Rifampicin in Crude Soybean Lecithin Liposomes: Formulation, Spectroscopic and Biological Characterization
Authors: Nkanga Christian Isalomboto , Roth Michael , Walker Roderick Bryan , Noundou Xavier Siwe , Krause Rui Werner Maçedo
Published: January 2020

An inclusion complex of isoniazid-grafted phthalocyanine with gamma-cyclodextrin (Complex) was co-encapsulated with rifampicin (RIF) in crude soybean lecithin liposomes using a heating method. The encapsulation efficiency (%EE) of the Complex-RIF co-loaded liposomes (Rif-Complex-Lips)
was determined using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Rif-Complex-Lips formulations were evaluated using dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), 1H-NMR, absorption and emission spectroscopy. Dialysis was used for drug release study in two different media, pH 6.4
and 7.4. HeLa cells were used to assess potential cytotoxicity, and the uptake by lung fibroblasts and epithelial cells was investigated using fluorescence microscopy. The particle size and Zeta potential of Rif-Complex-Lips were approximately 594 nm and –50 mV. Spectroscopic analyses
demonstrated molecular distribution of the cargo within the lipid core, and encapsulation efficiency of 58% for Complex and 86% for RIF. TEM analysis unveiled the existence of spherical nanoparticles in our samples, indicating the presence of liposomes. Rif-Complex-Lips exhibited much higher
release rates for both INH and RIF at pH 6.4 compared to those tested at pH 7.4. In addition, there was no cytotoxicity on HeLa cells, but remarkable Rif-Complex-Lips internalization by peripheral lung fibroblasts and epithelial cells. Hence, Rif-Complex-Lips are promising vehicles for intracellular
delivery of antimicrobial drugs.
Mathematical Model of the Carp Fishpond
Authors: Elmurodova B. E.
Published: January 2020

The article is devoted to the mathematical modeling of the carp fishpond ecosystem. The purpose of developing a mathematical model is to identify the regularities of the functioning of the pond ecosystem, with ability to manage its biological processes that will be used to improve its
fish productivity.
[ARTICLE WITHDRAWN] Comparison of Traditional Market Performance and Electronic Market of New Entrepreneurs
Authors: Thomkaew Jiraporn , Homhual Podjana , Chairat Supaporn , Khumhaeng Supatra
Published: January 2020

THIS ARTICLE WAS WITHDRAWN BY THE PUBLISHER IN DECEMBER 2020
Functional Requirements Specification of E-Tendering Using Natural Language Approach: Towards Innovative Business Transformation
Authors: Mohd Haslina , Baharom Fauziah , Darus Norida Muhd , Packeer Mohamed Shafinah Farvin , Marzuki Zaharin , Muhammad Robie Muhammad Afdhal
Published: January 2020

Recently, business transformation towards the used of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a necessity toward rapid industries and the paradigm shifted to sustain business competitiveness. The holistic electronic approach is one of business innovations, especially in handling
a lot of tender documentations and process in an electronic environment namely as e-Tendering. Unfortunately, the existing tender process transformation in the electronic approach is not properly followed certain standard and guideline, especially in establishing a good e-Tendering functional
requirements specification to ensure the organizations would be in the best served. This is important to ensure a good e-Tendering system can be developed by e-Tendering developers based on a good e-Tendering functional requirement specifications. The requirements specification is a process
of documenting user and system requirements. Commonly, user and system requirements should be clear, unambiguous, easy to understand, complete, and consistent. In practice, this is difficult to achieve due to interpretation of the requirements in different ways by stakeholders, which are often
inherent conflicts and inconsistencies of the requirements. The implementation of the existing e-tendering still remains uncertainties, especially in defining the functional requirements of the e-tendering system. Therefore, this study aims to construct the e-Tendering functional requirement
model using requirement template in natural language representation approach. Moreover the development of this system requirement model may provide a consistency to the requirements representation. The study uses UN/CEFACT Business Standard of the e-Tendering Business. The identified functional
requirements are designed by using Requirement Template to ensure the reliability and understandability of requirements. Besides, the proposed functional requirements is constructed by adapting the natural language and verified by expert review approaches. As a result, this study proposed
a functional requirements specification of the e-Tendering that contains detailed description which can be referred by software practitioners in developing a secure e-tendering system effectively.