bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speech masking release in Hybrid cochlear implant users: Roles of spectral and temporal cues in electric-acoustic hearing
Authors: Tejani Viral D. , Brown Carolyn J.
Published: May 2020

When compared with cochlear implant (CI) users utilizing electric-only (E-Only) stimulation, CI users utilizing electric-acoustic stimulation (EAS) in the implanted ear show improved speech recognition in modulated noise relative to steady-state noise (i.e., speech masking release). It has been hypothesized, but not shown, that masking release is attributed to spectral resolution and temporal fine structure (TFS) provided by acoustic hearing. To address this question, speech masking release, spectral ripple density discrimination thresholds, and fundamental frequency difference limens (f0DLs) were evaluated in the acoustic-only (A-Only), E-Only, and EAS listening modes in EAS CI users. The spectral ripple and f0DL tasks are thought to reflect access to spectral and TFS cues, which could impact speech masking release. Performance in all three measures was poorest when EAS CI users were tested using the E-Only listening mode, with significant improvements in A-Only and EAS listening modes. f0DLs, but not spectral ripple density discrimination thresholds, significantly correlated with speech masking release when assessed in the EAS listening mode. Additionally, speech masking release correlated with AzBio sentence recognition in noise. The correlation between speech masking release and f0DLs likely indicates that TFS cues provided by residual hearing were used to obtain speech masking release, which aided sentence recognition in noise.
On the universality of the scaling relations during sol-gel transition
Authors: Suman Khushboo , Joshi Yogesh M.
Published: May 2020

The evolution of viscoelastic properties near the sol-gel transition is studied by performing oscillatory rheological measurements on two different types of systems: a colloidal dispersion and a thermoresponsive polymer solution under isothermal and non-isothermal conditions. While undergoing sol-gel transition, both the systems pass through a critical point. An approach to the critical point is characterized in terms of divergence of zero-shear viscosity and the subsequent appearance of the low-frequency modulus. In the vicinity of the critical gel state, both the viscosity and the modulus show a power-law dependence on the relative distance from the critical point. Interestingly, the longest relaxation time has been observed to diverge symmetrically on both sides of the critical point and also shows a power-law dependence on relative distance from the critical gel point. The critical (power-law) exponents of the zero-shear viscosity and modulus are observed to be related to the exponents of the longest relaxation time by the hyperscaling laws. The dynamic critical exponent has also been calculated from the growth of the dynamic moduli. Remarkably, the critical relaxation exponent and dynamic critical exponent predicted from the scaling laws precisely agree with the experimental values from the isothermal as well as non-isothermal experiments. The associated critical exponents show remarkable internal consistency and advocate the universality of scaling relations for different kinds of systems undergoing the sol-gel transition.
Metabolic Rate in Adolescent Athletes: The Development and Validation of New Equations, and Comparison to Previous Models
Authors: Reale Reid J. , Roberts Timothy J. , Lee Khalil A. , Bonsignore Justina L. , Anderson Melissa L.
Published: May 2020

We sought to assess the accuracy of current or developing new prediction equations for resting metabolic rate (RMR) in adolescent athletes. RMR was assessed via indirect calorimetry, alongside known predictors (body composition via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, height, age, and sex) and hypothesized predictors (race and maturation status assessed via years to peak height velocity), in a diverse cohort of adolescent athletes (n = 126, 77% male, body mass = 72.8 ± 16.6 kg, height = 176.2 ± 10.5 cm, age = 16.5 ± 1.4 years). Predictive equations were produced and cross-validated using repeated k-fold cross-validation by stepwise multiple linear regression (10 folds, 100 repeats). Performance of the developed equations was compared with several published equations. Seven of the eight published equations examined performed poorly, underestimating RMR in >75% to >90% of cases. Root mean square error of the six equations ranged from 176 to 373, mean absolute error ranged from 115 to 373 kcal, and mean absolute error SD ranged from 103 to 185 kcal. Only the Schofield equation performed reasonably well, underestimating RMR in 51% of cases. A one- and two-compartment model were developed, both r2 of .83, root mean square error of 147, and mean absolute error of 114 ± 26 and 117 ± 25 kcal for the one- and two-compartment model, respectively. Based on the models’ performance, as well as visual inspection of residual plots, the following model predicts RMR in adolescent athletes with better precision than previous models; RMR = 11.1 × body mass (kg) + 8.4 × height (cm) − (340 male or 537 female).
Adverse effects of electronic cigarettes on the disease-naive oral microbiome
Authors: Ganesan Sukirth M. , Dabdoub Shareef M. , Nagaraja Haikady N. , Scott Michelle L. , Pamulapati Surya , Berman Micah L. , Shields Peter G. , Wewers Mary Ellen , Kumar Purnima S.
Published: May 2020

E-cigarettes increase risk for oral diseases by shifting health-compatible ecosystems to virulence-rich communities.
A biomimetic platelet based on assembling peptides initiates artificial coagulation
Authors: Yang Pei-Pei , Zhang Kuo , He Ping-Ping , Fan Yu , Gao Xuejiao J. , Gao Xingfa , Chen Zi-Ming , Hou Da-Yong , Li Yuan , Yi Yu , Cheng Dong-Bing , Zhang Jing-Ping , Shi Linqi , Zhang Xian-Zheng , Wang Lei , Wang Hao
Published: May 2020

A biomimetic platelet based on assembling peptides initiates artificial coagulation for tumor therapy.
Platelet-derived porous nanomotor for thrombus therapy
Authors: Wan Mimi , Wang Qi , Wang Rongliang , Wu Rui , Li Ting , Fang Dan , Huang Yangyang , Yu Yueqi , Fang Leyi , Wang Xingwen , Zhang Yinghua , Miao Zhuoyue , Zhao Bo , Wang Fenghe , Mao Chun , Jiang Qing , Xu Xingquan , Shi Dongquan
Published: May 2020

The treatment difficulties of venous thrombosis include short half-life, low utilization, and poor penetration of drugs at thrombus site. Here, we develop one kind of mesoporous/macroporous silica/platinum nanomotors with platelet membrane (PM) modification (MMNM/PM) for sequentially targeting delivery of thrombolytic and anticoagulant drugs for thrombus treatment. Regulated by the special proteins on PM, the nanomotors target the thrombus site and then PM can be ruptured under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation to achieve desirable sequential drug release, including rapid release of thrombolytic urokinase (3 hours) and slow release of anticoagulant heparin (>20 days). Meantime, the motion ability of nanomotors under NIR irradiation can effectively promote them to penetrate deeply in thrombus site to enhance retention ratio. The in vitro and in vivo evaluation results confirm that the synergistic effect of targeting ability from PM and motion ability from nanomotors can notably enhance the thrombolysis effect in both static/dynamic thrombus and rat model.
Hydrous oceanic crust hosts megathrust creep at low shear stresses
Authors: Tulley Christopher J. , Fagereng Åke , Ujiie Kohtaro
Published: May 2020

Hydration allows subducting oceanic crust to be far weaker than previously recognized.
Manipulating metals for adaptive thermal camouflage
Authors: Li Mingyang , Liu Dongqing , Cheng Haifeng , Peng Liang , Zu Mei
Published: May 2020

Adaptive thermal camouflage devices based on manipulating metals show multiple and excellent camouflaging capabilities.
Liquid seal for compact micropiston actuation at the capillary tip
Authors: Barbot Antoine , Power Maura , Seichepine Florent , Yang Guang-Zhong
Published: May 2020

Liquid/gas surface tension seals a 3D printed pneumatic microactuator at the tip of a 140-μm flexible capillary.
Using genetics to prioritize diagnoses for rheumatology outpatients with inflammatory arthritis
Authors: Knevel Rachel , le Cessie Saskia , Terao Chikashi C. , Slowikowski Kamil , Cui Jing , Huizinga Tom W. J. , Costenbader Karen H. , Liao Katherine P. , Karlson Elizabeth W. , Raychaudhuri Soumya
Published: May 2020

A genetic risk tool could be used at the first clinical visit of patients with inflammatory arthritis to increase diagnostic efficacy.
Functional role of kallikrein 5 and proteinase-activated receptor 2 in eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Azouz Nurit P. , Klingler Andrea M. , Pathre Purnima , Besse John A. , Baruch-Morgenstern Netali Ben , Ballaban Adina Y. , Osswald Garrett A. , Brusilovsky Michael , Habel Jeff E. , Caldwell Julie M. , Ynga-Durand Mario A. , Abonia Pablo J. , Hu Yueh-Chiang , Wen Ting , Rothenberg Marc E.
Published: May 2020

Eosinophilic esophagitis is mediated by uncontrolled proteolytic activity of kallikrein 5 influencing the epithelial barrier and innate immunity.
16S rRNA Gene Amplicon Sequence Data from Feces of Five Species of Wild Animals in Japan
Authors: Ishida-Kuroki Kasumi , Takeshita Nachiko , Nitta Yoshihiro , Chuma Takehisa , Maeda Ken , Shimoda Hiroshi , Takano Ai , Sekizaki Tsutomu
Published: May 2020

We report 16S rRNA amplicon sequence data from feces from 58 wild boars, 60 feral raccoons, 9 wild Japanese badgers, 21 wild masked palm civets, and 8 wild raccoon dogs in Japan. The predominant bacterial taxa in the fecal microbiota were similar in part but varied among the animal species.
Supplemental Material: Three-dimensional shape and structure of the Susitna basin, south-central Alaska, from geophysical data
Authors: Shah A.K. , al. et
Published: May 2020

Figure S1 showing locations of magnetic high-low
anomalies that exhibit total gradient highs, numbered 1–3 as described in the
text with: (A) simplified surface geology (colors as in Fig. 2), arrow marks an area
near metavolcanic rock described as Triassic to Pennsylvanian? by Wilson et al.
(2015); (B) reduced-to-pole
magnetic field; and (C) total gradient and thick black lines delineate faults
interpreted in this study and by Haeussler and Saltus (2011).
Virtual learning environment (‘Ivy Street’) for palliative medicine education: student and facilitator evaluation
Authors: Clabburn Oliver , Groves Karen E , Jack Barbara
Published: May 2020

Aim

The study aimed to evaluate student and facilitator perceptions regarding the novel use of a virtual learning environment (VLE) in the development and implementation of ‘Ivy Street’.

Sample/methods

Healthcare professionals enrolled on the first palliative and end-of-life care masters level module and course facilitators were invited to participate in the study. Two online surveys were developed comprising five open-ended questions to gain both student (n=16) and facilitator (n=4) perceptions of Ivy Street. Data were analysed thematically.

Findings

The key theme to emerge was the ‘Positive Perceptions of Ivy Street’. A second sub theme ‘Critical Feedback of Ivy Street’ focused on some initial technical issues. Respondents perceived the use of Ivy Street to be enjoyable, enabling and promoting peer discussion, while also having a high impact on student engagement. Respondents commented how Ivy Street removed concerns regarding confidentiality when discussing patient cases through utilisation of standardised Ivy Street characters.

Conclusion

The novel use of a VLE through developing characters, a story and vignettes is considered to be an effective and engaging method of learning for healthcare professionals enrolled on a palliative and end-of-life care module.
Emergency department preparation for COVID-19: accelerated care units
Authors: Noble Jeanne , Degesys Nida Felicija , Kwan Elizabeth , Grom Edward , Brown Cortlyn , Fahimi Jahan , Raven Maria
Published: May 2020

By 11 February 2020 when the WHO named the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and the disease it causes (COVID-19), it was evident that the virus was spreading rapidly outside of China. Although San Francisco did not confirm its first locally transmitted cases until the first week of March, our ED and health system began preparing for a potential COVID-19 surge in late February 2020.

In this manuscript, we detail how the above responses were instrumental in the rapid deployment of two military-grade negative-pressure medical tents, named accelerated care units (ACU). We describe engagement of our workforce, logistics of creating new care areas, ensuring safety through personal protective equipment access and conservation, and the adaptive leadership challenges that this process posed.

We know of no other comprehensive examples of how EDs have prepared for COVID-19 in the peer-reviewed literature. Many other EDs both in and outside of California have requested access to the details of how we operationalised our ACUs to facilitate their own planning. This demonstrates the urgent need to disseminate this information to our colleagues. Below we describe the process of developing and launching our ACUs as a potential model for other EDs around the country.
Ethics and ego dissolution: the case of psilocybin
Authors: Smith William R , Sisti Dominic
Published: May 2020

Despite the fact that psychedelics were proscribed from medical research half a century ago, recent, early-phase trials on psychedelics have suggested that they bring novel benefits to patients in the treatment of several mental and substance use disorders. When beneficial, the psychedelic experience is characterized by features unlike those of other psychiatric and medical treatments. These include senses of losing self-importance, ineffable knowledge, feelings of unity and connection with others and encountering ‘deep’ reality or God. In addition to symptom relief, psychedelic experiences often lead to significant changes in a patient’s personality and worldview. Focusing on the case of psilocybin, we argue that the peculiar features of psychedelics pose certain novel risks, which warrant an enhanced informed consent process–one that is more comprehensive than what may be typical for other psychiatric medications. We highlight key issues that should be focused on during the consent process and suggest discussion prompts for enhanced consent in psychedelic psychiatry. Finally, we respond to potential objections before concluding with a discussion of ethical considerations that will arise as psychedelics proceed from highly controlled research environments into mainstream clinical psychiatry.
INVESTIGATING COST-EFFECTIVE POLICY INCENTIVES FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY IN JAPAN: A RECURSIVE CGE APPROACH FOR AN OPTIMAL ENERGY MIX
Authors: HUANG MICHAEL C. , KIM CHUL JU
Published: May 2020

The Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE) and Fukushima nuclear disaster that occurred in 2011 gave a sharp reminder to Japan’s energy security to reconsider the reduction of nuclear power dependence with a better energy mix. We use a recursive CGE model based on Japan’s renewable energy input–output model to analyze the energy composite of power generation and consumption to investigate cost-effective policy incentives to achieve an optimal energy mix to reduce the nuclear power dependence to less than 5% within 10 years. Moreover, we create scenarios of: (1) nuclear power decommission, (2) renewable energy promotion and (3) virtual power plant (VPP) implementation with public R&D expenditure and power infrastructure investment. The simulation results show that renewable energy could gradually replace nuclear power with capital-use subsidies. Under the direction of nuclear power decommission, the VPP installation could reduce the fiscal cost of wind power by 13%, solar energy by 8% and the social cost by 36%. We provide empirical evidence that the implementation of VPP should be promoted in addition to the renewable policy promotion policy to facilitate power allocation and overcapacity problems better.
INDUSTRIAL TRANSFER’S EFFECT ON COMPETITIVENESS OF THE MANUFACTURING: A CASE OF ZHEJIANG, CHINA
Authors: LI BINGQIANG , LI JINZHI , DONG NANNAN , HUANG LEI
Published: May 2020

Industrial transfer is an important driving force for competitiveness promotion of the manufacturing at Zhejiang. Based on the theoretical model established, effects of industrial transfer on different dimensions of competitiveness were empirically analyzed from aspects of the direction and the hierarchy. The results showed that it was positively related to the industrial capacity competitiveness and the earning competitiveness, negatively related to the external competitiveness and not related to the internal competitiveness, with effect on the intensive being significantly stronger than that on the extensive. At the same time, there was breakage in transmission path of industry transfer on promotion of competitiveness of the manufacturing.
A COMPLEX ORDER MODEL OF ATRIAL ELECTRICAL PROPAGATION FROM FRACTAL POROUS CELL MEMBRANE
Authors: UGARTE JUAN P. , TOBÓN CATALINA , LOPES ANTÓNIO M. , MACHADO J. A. TENREIRO
Published: May 2020

Cardiac tissue is characterized by structural and cellular heterogeneities that play an important role in the cardiac conduction system. Under persistent atrial fibrillation (persAF), electrical and structural remodeling occur simultaneously. The classical mathematical models of cardiac electrophysiological showed remarkable progress during recent years. Among those models, it is of relevance the standard diffusion mathematical equation, that considers the myocardium as a continuum. However, the modeling of structural properties and their influence on electrical propagation still reveal several limitations. In this paper, a model of cardiac electrical propagation is proposed based on complex order derivatives. By assuming that the myocardium has an underlying fractal process, the complex order dynamics emerges as an important modeling option. In this perspective, the real part of the order corresponds to the fractal dimension, while the imaginary part represents the log-periodic corrections of the fractal dimension. Indeed, the imaginary part in the derivative implies characteristic scales within the cardiac tissue. The analytical and numerical procedures for solving the related equation are presented. The sinus rhythm and persAF conditions are implemented using the Courtemanche formalism. The electrophysiological properties are measured and analyzed on different scales of observation. The results indicate that the complex order modulates the electrophysiology of the atrial system, through the variation of its real and imaginary parts. The combined effect of the two components yields a broad range of electrophysiological conditions. Therefore, the proposed model can be a useful tool for modeling electrical and structural properties during cardiac conduction.
VARIATIONAL PRINCIPLE FOR (2 + 1)-DIMENSIONAL BROER–KAUP EQUATIONS WITH FRACTAL DERIVATIVES
Authors: CAO XIAO-QUN , HOU SHI-CHENG , GUO YA-NAN , ZHANG CHENG-ZHUO , PENG KE-CHENG
Published: May 2020

This paper extends the [Formula: see text]-dimensional Broer–Kaup equations in continuum mechanics to its fractional partner, which can model a lot of nonlinear waves in fractal porous media. Its derivation is demonstrated in detail by applying He’s fractional derivative. Using the semi-inverse method, two variational principles are established for the nonlinear coupled equations, which up to now are not discovered. The variational formulations can help to study the symmetries and find conserved quantities in the fractal space. The obtained variational principles are proved correct by minimizing the functionals with the calculus of variations, and might find potential applications in numerical simulation. The procedure reveals that the semi-inverse method is highly efficient and powerful, and can be generalized to other nonlinear evolution equations with fractal derivatives.
Dual Extreme Learning Machines-Based Spatiotemporal Modeling for Nonlinear Distributed Thermal Processes
Authors: Jin Xi , Yang Hai Dong , Xu Kang Kang , Zhu Cheng Jiu
Published: May 2020

Many industrial thermal processes belong to distributed parameter systems (DPSs), which have two coupled nonlinear blocks. Dual least square support vector machines (LS-SVM) has been proposed to model such systems. However, due to the use of two LS-SVM, this method often leads to heavy computation and long learning time, which does not suit for online application. In this study, a dual extreme learning machine (ELM)-based spatiotemporal modeling method is proposed for such two nonlinearities embedded DPSs. Firstly, the KL method is applied to reduce the dimension of the original system and obtain the spatial basis functions (BFs). Then, dual ELM is designed to match the two nonlinear structures. Finally, through the reconstruction of space–time synthesis, the approximate spatiotemporal distribution model of the original system is obtained. In addition, simulations on a curing process is studied to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Ultrathin carbon boosted sodium storage performance in aqueous electrolyte
Authors: Gao Xinlong , Shi Wenhui , Ruan Pengchao , Feng Jinxiu , Zheng Dong , Yu Linhai , Xue Min , Wu Fangfang , Liu Wenxian , Shen Jiangnan , Li Haibo , Cao Xiehong
Published: May 2020

The sodium-based aqueous energy storage devices possess the advantages of low cost, high safety and wide application. However, the low energy density of traditional carbon-based sodium storage materials limits their large-scale application. Besides, other sodium storage materials, such as transition metal oxides, polyanionic compounds and Prussian blue analogues (PBAs), cannot achieve high capacity and stable energy storage performance due to their poor conductivity and instability. Ultrathin carbon with unique characteristics, such as high electrical conductivity, excellent chemical stability, can compensate for the shortcomings of these sodium storage materials. Besides, the arising synergistic effect among ultrathin carbon and active materials is capable of further boosting the performance to achieve robust microstructure, stable electrode/electrolyte interface, high reaction kinetics for obtained composite electrode. This paper summarizes the recently developed strategies to incorporate ultrathin carbon with electrode materials, followed by a discussion of the important role of ultrathin carbon in enhancing sodium storage properties, as well as the future research direction.
Metal nanodots anchored on carbon nanotubes prepared by a facile solid-state redox strategy for superior lithium storage
Authors: Huang Long , Huang Peng , Chen Peng , Ding Yuan-Li
Published: May 2020

Alloying-based electrode materials (e.g. Si, Sn, Sb, Bi, etc.) are the promising anode candidates for next-generation lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) owing to their high specific capacities, but they suffer from huge volume changes upon lithium/sodium insertion/extraction processes. On the other hand, such alloying anodes usually require a complicated and high energy-consumption synthesis process (e.g. Si anode by a magnesiothermic reduction at over [Formula: see text]C, Sn, Sb and Bi anodes by a high-temperature carbothermic reduction at 600–[Formula: see text]C), thus limiting their practical application for replacing low-cost graphite. In this work, we develop a straightforward solid-state strategy for a general synthesis of metal nanodots (Sn, Sb and Bi) supported on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by using the reduction potential differences of metal salts and NaBH4 as the reaction power at room temperature. Owing to the very mild reaction, the resulted active component is small enough (2–5[Formula: see text]nm) with diffusion-less and nucleation-less barriers upon alloying/dealloying reaction, thus enabling high electrode stability and high capacity retention. Taking Sn anode as an example, the obtained Sn/CNTs deliver a high reversible capacity of 415[Formula: see text]mAh g[Formula: see text] at 0.5[Formula: see text]A g[Formula: see text] after 1000 cycles without obvious capacity decay. Such findings indicate that the proposed solid-state synthetic method could offer a great potential for realizing large-scale and economic applications of energy storage materials.
Local myostatin inhibition improves skeletal muscle glucose uptake in insulin-resistant high-fat diet-fed mice
Authors: Eilers Wouter , Chambers David , Cleasby Mark , Foster Keith
Published: May 2020

Myostatin inhibition is thought to improve whole body insulin sensitivity and mitigate the development of insulin resistance in models of obesity. However, although myostatin is known to be a major regulator of skeletal muscle mass, the direct effects of myostatin inhibition in muscle on glucose uptake and the mechanisms that may underlie this are still unclear. We investigated the effect of local myostatin inhibition by adeno-associated virus-mediated overexpression of the myostatin propeptide on insulin-stimulated skeletal muscle glucose disposal in chow-fed or high fat diet-fed mice and evaluated the molecular pathways that might mediate this. We found that myostatin inhibition improved glucose disposal in obese high fat diet-fed mice alongside the induction of muscle hypertrophy but did not have an impact in chow-fed mice. This improvement was not associated with greater glucose transporter or peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α expression or 5′ AMP-activated protein kinase activation as previously suggested. Instead, transcriptomic analysis suggested that the improvement in glucose disposal was associated with significant enrichment in genes involved in fatty acid metabolism and translation of mitochondrial genes. Thus, myostatin inhibition improves muscle insulin-stimulated glucose disposal in obese high fat diet-fed mice independent of muscle hypertrophy, potentially involving previously unidentified pathways.
Expression Profiles and Ontology Analysis of Circular RNAs in a Mouse Model of Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Sun Zhaoqing , Yu Tongtong , Jiao Yundi , He Dongxu , Wu Jiake , Duan Weili , Sun Zhijun
Published: May 2020

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in cellular physiology. The association between circRNAs and myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury remains largely unknown. The aim of this study was to test the effects of myocardial I/R circRNA expression and explore the potential roles of these circRNAs. CircRNAs were screened by high‐throughput sequencing, and the expression of dysregulated circRNAs was further validated using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Nineteen upregulated and 20 downregulated circRNAs were identified. Gene Ontology analysis indicated that the dysregulated transcripts were associated with fundamental pathophysiologic processes. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis showed significant changes in adherens junction, the HIF‐1 signaling pathway, the cell cycle, and the FoxO signaling pathway which have a close relationship with myocardial I/R injury. The circRNA‐miRNA analysis demonstrated the broad potential of the differentially expressed circRNAs to regulate target genes by acting on the miRNAs. This study provides a foundation for understanding the roles and mechanisms of circRNAs in myocardial I/R injury.
Development of a Novel Tool for the Retrieval and Analysis of Hormone Receptor Expression Characteristics in Metastatic Breast Cancer via Data Mining on Pathology Reports
Authors: Chang Kai-Po , Wang John , Chang Chi-Chang , Chu Yen-Wei
Published: May 2020

Information about the expression status of hormone receptors such as estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and Her‐2 is crucial in the management and prognosis of breast cancer. Therefore, the retrieval and analysis of hormone receptor expression characteristics in metastatic breast cancer may be valuable in breast cancer study. Herein, we report a text mining tool based on word/phrase matching that retrieves hormone receptor expression data of regional or distant metastatic breast cancer from pathology reports. It was tested on pathology reports at the China Medical University Hospital from 2013 to 2018. The tool showed specificities of 91.6% and 63.3% for the detection of regional lymph node metastasis and distant metastasis, respectively. Sensitivity in immunohistochemical study result extraction in these cases was 98.6% for distant metastasis and 78.3% for regional lymph node metastasis. Statistical analysis on these retrieved data showed significant difference s in PR and Her‐2 expressions between regional and metastatic breast cancer, which is compatible with previous studies. In conclusion, our study shows that metastatic breast cancer hormone receptor expression characteristics can be retrieved by text mining. The algorithm designed in this study may be useful in future studies about text mining in pathology reports.
Alkali Effect on Alkali-Surfactant-Polymer (ASP) Flooding Enhanced Oil Recovery Performance: Two Large-Scale Field Tests’ Evidence
Authors: Sun Chen , Guo Hu , Li Yiqiang , Jiang Guipu , Ma Ruicheng
Published: May 2020

Alkali-surfactant-polymer (ASP) flooding is very promising chemical enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technology which can make an incremental oil recovery factor (IORF) of 30% original oil in place (OOIP). How to choose alkali in ASP flooding remains a question for a long time. As the world’s only and largest ASP flooding application place, Daqing Oilfield has always adhered to the strategy of parallel development of strong alkali ASP flooding (SASP) and weak alkali ASP flooding (WASP), but SASP is in a dominant position, indicated by more investments and more project numbers. This leaves an impression that SASP is better than WASP. However, WASP is drawing more interest than SASP recently. Moreover, as the ASP flooding in Daqing went from field tests to commercial applications since 2014, how to comprehensively consider the benefit and cost of ASP flooding has become a new focus at low oil prices. This paper compares two typical large-scale field tests (B-1-D SASP and B-2-X WASP) completed in Daqing Oilfield and analyzes and discusses the causes of this difference. The injection viscosity and interfacial tension (IFT) for the two field test areas are substantially equivalent under the conditions of Daqing Oilfield, and WASP is better than SASP when reservoir geological conditions are considered. WASP exhibits the same IORF of 30% as SASP while having a much better economic performance. For the SASP field test, the injected strong alkali NaOH makes the test behave unlike a typical strong ASP flooding due to the presence of CO2 in the formation fluid, which well explains why IORF is much higher than all the other SASPs but scaling is less severe than others. This paper confirms that under Daqing Oilfield reservoir conditions, it is the alkali difference that caused the performance difference of these two tests, although some minor uncertainties exist. WASP is better than the SASP providing the same conditions . In addition, the detailed information of the two ASP field tests provided can give reference for the implementation of ASP flooding in other oilfields. After all, the study of ASP flooding enhanced oil recovery technology under low oil prices requires great foresight and determination.
Open and Minimal Approaches to Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Bhogal Ricky H. , Pericleous Stephanos , Khan Aamir Z.
Published: May 2020

Surgical options and approaches to pancreatic cancer are changing in the current era. Neoadjuvant treatment strategies for pancreatic cancer combined with the increased use of minimal access surgical techniques mean that the modern pancreatic surgeon requires mastering a number of surgical approaches with to optimally manage patients. Whilst traditional open surgery remains the most frequent approach for surgery, the specific steps during surgery may need to be modified in light of the aforementioned neoadjuvant treatments. Robotic and laparoscopic approaches to pancreatic resection are feasible, but these surgical methods remain in their infancy. In this review article, we summarise the current surgical approaches to pancreatic cancer and how these are adapted to the minimal access setting with discussion of the patient outcome data.
The Role of MicroRNA in Contrast‐Induced Nephropathy: A Scoping Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Toruan Mangiring P. L. , Pranata Raymond , Setianto Budi Yuli , Haryana Sofia Mubarika
Published: May 2020

Objective. Early diagnosis of contrast‐induced nephropathy (CIN) remains crucial for successful treatment; unfortunately, the widely used serum creatinine is elevated only in the late stage of CIN. The circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are stable biomarker that might be useful. The aim of this scoping review and meta‐analysis is to assess the role of miRNAs in CIN. Methods. We performed a systematic literature search on topics that assess the role of miRNAs in CIN from several electronic databases. Results. There were 6 preclinical studies and 2 of them validated their findings in human. Only miR‐30a, miR‐30c, miR‐30e, and miR‐188 have been validated in human models. Meta‐analysis showed that increase in miR‐30a expression was associated with higher incidence of CIN (OR 4.48 [1.52, 13.26],  p = 0.007; I2: 94%, p < 0.001). An increase in miR‐30e expression was associated with higher incidence of CIN (OR 2.34 [1.70, 3.20], p < 0.001; I2: 0%, p = 0.76). There is an indication that miR‐188 is associated with contrast‐induced apoptosis and might potentially be a drug target in the future. Conclusion. This study highlighted the importance of certain miRNAs in CIN pathophysiology. Future researches should explore on the prognostic and therapeutic implication of miRNA in CIN.
Preoperative Systemic Immune‐Inflammation Index (SII) for Predicting the Survival of Patients with Stage I‐III Gastric Cancer with a Signet‐Ring Cell (SRC) Component
Authors: Zhu Ziyu , Cong Xiliang , Li Rui , Yin Xin , Li Chunfeng , Xue Yingwei
Published: May 2020

Background. Recently, a novel systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII) based on peripheral lymphocytes, neutrophils, and platelets has been reported to be correlated with patient prognosis in several malignancies, including gastric cancer. However, the prognostic value of the SII for gastric cancer patients with a signet‐ring cell (SRC) component has not yet been reported. In this study, we aimed to assess the prognostic value of the SII in gastric cancer patients with an SRC component after curative resection. Methods. This study was a retrospective analysis of 512 GC patients with an SRC component who underwent curative resection. The prognostic value of the SII was analyzed by the Kaplan‐Meier method and Cox proportional hazards regression model. Results. In our study cohort, an optimal cut‐off value for the SII of 527 was used to stratify patients with gastric cancer (GC) into low (<527) and high SII (≥527) groups. Our study indicated that a high SII (≥527) was significantly correlated with a large tumor size (p < 0.001), infiltration of serosa (p < 0.001), lymph node metastasis (p < 0.001), and advanced TNM stage (p < 0.001). Univariate and multivariate analyses further demonstrated that a low SII was correlated with better clinical outcome and was an independent prognostic predictor in GC patients with an SRC component. Furthermore, the SII retained prognostic value in the subgroup analysis, including subgroup of different TNM stages and pure or mixed signet‐ring cell carcinomas (SRCCs). Conclusion. The SII is a simple, promising, and practical prognostic biomarker for patients with surgically resected mixed SRCC and pure SRCC. The SII could complement current prognostic tools for better treatment planning and stratification of patients.
Association between the MMP‐1‐1607 1G/2G Polymorphism and Osteoarthritis Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Liu Jiankun , Wang Guangye , Peng Zhan
Published: May 2020

Background. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common disease characterized by articular cartilage degeneration and secondary hyperosteogenesis. Genetic factors are associated with the occurrence of OA. While several studies have shown that the matrix metalloproteinase‐1‐ (MMP‐1‐) 1607 1G/2G (rs1799750) polymorphism may be related to the occurrence and development of OA, there is inconsistency in the literature. To better estimate the relationship between the MMP‐1 gene polymorphism and OA, a comprehensive meta‐analysis of relevant literature was carried out. Results. In total, seven studies comprising 1245 OA patients and 1230 controls were included in this meta‐analysis. The combined results revealed no significant association between the MMP‐1‐1607 1G/2G polymorphism and risk of OA in the five genetic models. However, after Bonferroni correction, the results of subgroup analysis revealed a significant correlation between the MMP‐1‐1607 1G/2G polymorphism and OA susceptibility in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) OA subgroup (allelic: 2G vs. 1G: OR = 1.575, 95%CI = 1.259–1.972, P < 0.01; recessive: 2G2G vs. 1G1G+1G2G: OR = 2.411, 95%CI = 1.658–3.504, P < 0.01; and homozygote: 2G2G vs. 1G1G: OR = 2.313, 95%CI = 1.341, 3.991, P = 0.003), the younger subgroup (aged less than 60 years; allelic: 2G vs. 1G: OR = 1.635, 95%CI = 1.354, 1.974, P < 0.01; dominant: 2G1G+2G2G vs. 1G1G: OR = 1.622, 95%CI = 1.158, 2.271, P = 0.005; recessive: 2G2G vs. 1G1G+1G2G: OR = 2.209, 95%CI = 1.718, 2.840, P < 0.01; and homozygote: 2G2G vs. 1G1G: OR = 2.578, 95%CI = 1.798, 3.696, P < 0.01), the larger subgroup (N > 300), and the hospital‐based case‐control study (HCC) subgroup. The sensitivity analysis suggested that the results of the meta‐analysis were stable and reliable. Begg’s funnel plot and Egger’s test indicated that there was no publication bias in this study. Conclusion. Our meta‐analysis indicated that although the MMP‐1‐1607 1G/2G polymorphism was not significantly associated with OA susceptibility among the whole sample, it played a key role in the etiology and development of TMJ OA and OA in people aged less than 60 years.
Establishment and Characteristic Analysis of a Dog Model for Autologous Homologous Cranioplasty
Authors: Zhu Wenyu , Wu Jie , Zhao Haifeng , Wang Weihua , Lu Lichun , Yan Ke , Yin Yin , Huang Qiang
Published: May 2020

Objective. The aim of this study is to establish a large animal (dog) model that can be referred clinically for autologous homologous cranioplasty. Methods. Our large skull defect dog model was established by emulating the decompressive craniectomy with 22 adult beagle dogs. The autologous bones were taken out from the dogs and divided into two groups, the freeze‐drying (FD) group and the single freezing (SF) group. They were then stored in the bone bank at ‐20°C after being irradiated with 25 KGy. Three months later, the bones were reimplanted. After operation, we closely watch the experimental objects for four more months examining the infection and survival of the bone graft. Results. Through macroscopic observation, it was found that, among 44 cranial flaps (bilateral) from the rest of the 22 dogs, grade A cranial flaps accounted for 86.4% (19/22) in the SF group and only 31.8% (7/22) in the FD group. Although osteogenic osteoclast, Harvard tube, neovascularization, and angiogenic factors were found through the pathological results, including an electron microscope and calmodulin tracer, it could be verified by using X‐CT and micro‐CT that early bone resorption could be still found even in grade A bone flap. Conclusion. By using the common clinical method to preserve the cranial flaps, we established an experimental dog model of autologous cranioplasty for a large area of cranial defect. It was proved that this model could reproduce the infections and bone resorption which typically happened in clinical autologous homologous cranioplasty. As a conclusion, the established model can be used as an effective experimental tool for further research to improve the success rate of autologous homologous cranioplasty.
A Review of Isolation, Chemical Properties, and Bioactivities of Polysaccharides from Bletilla striata
Authors: Ji Xiaolong , Yin Mingsong , Nie Hui , Liu Yanqi
Published: May 2020

Recently, polysaccharides from Bletilla striata, a member of the orchidaceous family, aroused the wide interest of people, especially their isolation, chemical properties, and bioactivities. It is reported that these polysaccharides are the most important biologically active components of B. striata, exhibiting various biological activities, such as immunomodulatory, antioxidant, antifibrotic, and hemostatic effects. This review appraised the available literatures which described different aspects of B. striata polysaccharides, including the extraction, separation, purification, structural characterization, and biological activities. We expect to lay the foundation for further investigation of the application of B. striata polysaccharides in the field of functional foods and biomedicine.
Characteristic Analysis of Digital Large Flow Emulsion Relief Valve
Authors: Zeng Qing-liang , Tian Ming-qian , Wan Li-rong , Dai Han-zheng , Yang Yang , Sun Zhi-yuan , Lu Yan-jie , Liu Fang-quan
Published: May 2020

The relief valve is an important control and overload protection component of the emulsion pumping station. Its performance will affect the overall performance of the emulsion pumping station and the stable and intelligent control of the working surface. However, the research on high pressure and large flow relief valve for mine emulsion pumping station is still inadequate. In order to meet the requirements of emulsion pump station for large flow sensitivity, stability, reliability, and remote intelligent control of overflow valve, this paper uses the digital control method to establish the mathematical model of the relief valve and uses the software such as AMESim to its dynamic characteristics. The simulation results show that the structural parameters such as spool quality, damping hole, and spring stiffness have an effect on the working characteristics of the relief valve. It also provides reference for the intelligent control research of the large flow relief valve for the emulsion pumping station.
RANKL Is Involved in Runx2‐Triggered Hepatic Infiltration of Macrophages in Mice with NAFLD Induced by a High‐Fat Diet
Authors: Zhong Li , Yuan Jianghan , Huang Lu , Li Shan , Deng Liang
Published: May 2020

Background. Receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) ligand (RANKL) is significant in the activation of inflammation. Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) promotes the hepatic infiltration of macrophages in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We studied how RANKL affects Runx2‐triggered macrophage infiltration in NAFLD. Method. 30 male C57BL/6J mice at 4 weeks of age were utilized in this study, 20 mice received a high‐fat diet (HFD), and 10 mice received standard rodent chow over 8 months. The histopathologic features of the liver were identified by H&E, Oil red O, and Masson staining. Runx2, RANKL, and F4/80 were analyzed by western blot, real‐time PCR, and immunohistochemistry in vivo, respectively. Lentivirus or siRNA was utilized for transwell assay to investigate the role of RANKL in Runx2‐induced macrophage migration in vitro. Results. Compared to controls, during NAFLD development, HFD increased Runx2 and RANKL in vivo in NASH (P < 0.01). Meanwhile, a correlation between the expression of Runx2 and RANKL (P < 0.05) was evident. In addition, the hepatic infiltration of macrophages was increased upon HFD feeding, and analysis showed that the macrophage infiltration was correlated with the expression of Runx2 or RANKL (P < 0.05). In vitro, we found that overexpression or deficiency of Runx2 increased or decreased the production of RANKL in mHSCs. Then, transwell assay revealed that RANKL was involved in Runx2‐induced macrophage migration. Conclusions. Overall, RANKL is involved in Runx2‐triggered macrophage migration during NAFLD pathogenesis, which may provide an underlying therapeutic target for NAFLD.
Allergic Rhinitis and Its Epidemiological Distribution in Syria: A High Prevalence and Additional Risks in War Time
Authors: Kakaje Ameer , Alhalabi Mohammad Marwan , Alyousbashi Ayham , Hamid Aya , Hosam Aldeen Osama
Published: May 2020

Background. Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a global disease that affects a huge proportion of people around the world especially in the Middle East, where multiple allergy‐promoting factors can be found. Although AR is not fatal, it severely affects the quality of life. However, it is usually overlooked in developing countries due to resource scarcity. Methods. An online questionnaire on social media was used which included demographics, smoking, socioeconomic‐status (SES), war‐related questions, and the score for allergic rhinitis (SFAR), a simple self‐reporting tool with the cut‐off point at 7. Findings. This study included 968 subjects with 721 (74.5%) females. The mean age was 24.69 years with AR prevalence at 47.9%. AR was associated with male gender [P = 0.001 (OR, 1.677; 95% CI 1.249‐2.253)], having a job [P = 0.049 (OR, 1.309; 95% CI 1.001‐1.713)], the having a chronic medical condition (P < 0.0001) mainly other allergies [P < 0.0001 (OR, 9.199; 95% CI 3.836‐22.063)] and asthma [P = 0.006 (OR, 5.060; 95% CI 1.396‐18.342)], using medications (P < 0.0001) and living in particular provinces (P = 0.010). However, no significant correlation was found with type of work and war factors except being distressed by war sounds [P = 0.027 (OR, 1.348; 95% CI 1.034‐1.757)]. Finally, no associations were found with age, consanguinity, SES, educational level, and cigarette or/and shisha smoking (P > 0.05). Interpretation. Approximately half of the sample displayed AR symptoms, indicating a potentially high burden of AR in the community. A correlation to being distressed from war noises was found with AR which could reflect a psychological aspect. In addition, in war harmful allergens are released which can be an additional AR risk factor which adds to the environment in the Middle East that is associated with AR. However, we need further studies to discover and minimize this huge prevalence of AR.
Cholinergic Urticaria: Clinical Presentation and Natural History in a Tropical Country
Authors: Rujitharanawong Chuda , Tuchinda Papapit , Chularojanamontri Leena , Chanchaemsri Nattacha , Kulthanan Kanokvalai
Published: May 2020

Background. Cholinergic urticaria (CholU) is a subset of chronic inducible urticaria characterized by the recurrent pinpoint‐sized wheals that are induced by exercising or increasing core body temperature. Currently, the data of CholU in tropical climate is still limited. Objective. To investigate the clinical features and natural course of CholU in a tropical country. Materials and Methods. This retrospective chart review study analyzed the data of CholU patients aged over 18 years who visited Siriraj Urticaria Clinic, Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand, between January 2007 and September 2019. Demographic data, clinical presentations, and results of provocation tests and other laboratory investigations were evaluated and compared with other studies reported in temperate zones. Results. Sixteen out of 2,175 chronic urticaria patients (0.7%) were diagnosed with CholU. The median age of CholU patients was 28.0 ± 11.7 years with male predominance (56.3%). Three patients (18.8%) had a history of atopy. Fifteen patients (93.8%) were positive to the exercise provocation test. Nonsedating antihistamine drugs were a main treatment (73.8%). Six patients (37.5%) were in remission at the time of the study, with a mean duration 4.3 years. The Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis demonstrated that 12.5%, 35.5%, and 67.9% of patients would have disease remission within 1 year, 5 years, and 13 years, respectively. Conclusions. The prevalence of CholU differs in each geographic region and is found to be low in tropical countries with a median duration 4.3 years. The prevalence of atopy and anaphylaxis with CholU is also lower in tropical countries than in temperate.