bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the global cost of vision impairment and its major causes: protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Marques Ana Patricia , Ramke Jacqueline , Cairns John , Butt Thomas , Zhang Justine H , Faal Hannah B , Taylor Hugh , Jones Iain , Congdon Nathan , Bastawrous Andrew , Braithwaite Tasanee , Jovic Marty , Resnikoff Serge , Nandakumar Allyala , Khaw Peng Tee , Bourne Rupert R A , Gordon Iris , Frick Kevin , Burton Matthew J
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Vision impairment (VI) places a burden on individuals, health systems and society in general. In order to support the case for investing in eye health services, an updated cost of illness study that measures the global impact of VI is necessary. To perform such a study, a systematic review of the literature is needed. Here we outline the protocol for a systematic review to describe and summarise the costs associated with VI and its major causes.

Methods and analysis

We will systematically search in Medline (Ovid) and the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination database which includes the National Health Service Economics Evaluation Database. No language or geographical restriction will be applied. Additional literature will be identified by reviewing the references in the included studies and by contacting field experts. Grey literature will be considered. The review will include any study published from 1 January 2000 to November 2019 that provides information about costs of illness, burden of disease and/or loss of well-being in participants with VI due to an unspecified cause or due to one of the seven leading causes globally.

Two reviewers will independently screen studies and extract relevant data from included studies. Methodological quality of economic studies will be assessed based on the British Medical Journal checklist for economic submissions adapted to costs of illness studies. This protocol has been prepared following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis protocols and has been published prospectively in Open Science Framework.

Ethics and dissemination

Formal ethical approval is not required, as primary data will not be collected in this review. The findings of this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, stakeholder meetings and inclusion in the ongoing Lancet Global Health Commission on Global Eye Health.

Registration details

https://osf.io/9au3w (DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/6F8VM).
Critical review of multimorbidity outcome measures suitable for low-income and middle-income country settings: perspectives from the Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases (GACD) researchers
Authors: Hurst John R , Agarwal Gina , van Boven Job F M , Daivadanam Meena , Gould Gillian Sandra , Wan-Chun Huang Erick , Maulik Pallab K , Miranda J Jaime , Owolabi M O , Premji Shahirose Sadrudin , Soriano Joan B , Vedanthan Rajesh , Yan Lijing , Levitt Naomi
Published: September 2020

Objectives

There is growing recognition around the importance of multimorbidity in low-income and middle-income country (LMIC) settings, and specifically the need for pragmatic intervention studies to reduce the risk of developing multimorbidity, and of mitigating the complications and progression of multimorbidity in LMICs. One of many challenges in completing such research has been the selection of appropriate outcomes measures. A 2018 Delphi exercise to develop a core-outcome set for multimorbidity research did not specifically address the challenges of multimorbidity in LMICs where the global burden is greatest, patterns of disease often differ and health systems are frequently fragmented. We, therefore, aimed to summarise and critically review outcome measures suitable for studies investigating mitigation of multimorbidity in LMIC settings.

Setting

LMIC.

Participants

People with multimorbidity.

Outcome measures

Identification of all outcome measures.

Results

We present a critical review of outcome measures across eight domains: mortality, quality of life, function, health economics, healthcare access and utilisation, treatment burden, measures of ‘Healthy Living’ and self-efficacy and social functioning.

Conclusions

Studies in multimorbidity are necessarily diverse and thus different outcome measures will be appropriate for different study designs. Presenting the diversity of outcome measures across domains should provide a useful summary for researchers, encourage the use of multiple domains in multimorbidity research, and provoke debate and progress in the field.
Experiencing the risk of overutilising opioids among patients with chronic non-cancer pain in ambulatory care (ERONA): the protocol of an exploratory, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Wegwarth Odette , Spies Claudia , Schulte Erika , Meerpohl Joerg J , Schmucker Christine , Nury Edris , Brockmann Dirk , Donner-Banzhoff Norbert , Wind Stefan , Goebel Eva , Ludwig Wolf-Dieter , Hertwig Ralph
Published: September 2020

Introduction

The US opioid crisis and increasing prescription rates in Europe suggest inappropriate risk perceptions and behaviours of people who prescribe, take or advise on opioids: physicians, patients and pharmacists. Findings from cognitive and decision science in areas other than drug safety suggest that people’s risk perception and behaviour can differ depending on whether they learnt about a risk through personal experience or description. Experiencing the risk of overutilising opioids among patients with chronic non-cancer pain in ambulatory care (ERONA) is the first-ever conducted trial that aims at investigating the effects of these two modes of learning on individuals’ risk perception and behaviour in the long-term administration of WHO-III opioids in chronic non-cancer pain.

Methods and analysis

ERONA—an exploratory, randomised controlled online survey intervention trial with two parallel arms—will examine the opioid-associated risk perception and behaviour of four groups involved in the long-term administration of WHO-III opioids: (1) family physicians, (2) physicians specialised in pain therapy, (3) patients with chronic (≥3 months) non-cancer pain and (4) pharmacists who regularly dispense narcotic substances. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two online risk education interventions, description based or experiencebased. Both interventions will present the best medical evidence available. Participants will be queried at baseline and after intervention on their risk perception of opioids’ benefit–harm ratio, their medical risk literacy and their current/intended risk behaviour (in terms of prescribing, taking or counselling, depending on study group). A follow-up will occur after 9 months, when participants will be queried on their actual risk behaviour. The study was developed by the authors and will be conducted by the market research institution IPSOS Health.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Max Planck Institute for Human Development. Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations and social media.

Trial registration number

DRKS00020358.
Predictors of exclusive breastfeeding practice among migrant and non-migrant mothers in urban China: results from a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Li Jia , Duan Yifan , Bi Ye , Wang Jie , Lai Jianqiang , Zhao Chen , Fang Jin , Yang Zhenyu
Published: September 2020

Objective

To explore and compare the predictors for exclusive breast feeding (EBF) among migrant and non-migrant mothers in China.

Design

A large-scale cross-sectional study.

Setting

12 counties/districts were covered in China.

Participants

A total number of 10 408 mothers were recruited, of whom 3571 mothers of infants aged 0–5 months in urban China were used for analysis.

Outcome

The practice of EBF was calculated based on the foods and drinks consumed in the last 24 hours, as recommended by WHO.

Results

Around 30% of Chinese mothers with infants aged 0–5 months practised EBF in urban areas, with no significant difference between migrant and non-migrant mothers (p=0.433). Among the migrant mothers, factors associated with EBF included residence in big cities (adjusted OR, AOR 1.68 (95% CI 1.20 to 2.34)), premature birth (AOR 0.27 (95% CI 0.09 to 0.81)), knowledge about EBF (AOR 2.00 (95% CI 1.51 to 2.65)), low intention of breast feeding in the first month postpartum (AOR 0.59 (95% CI 0.36 to 0.97)) and mothers working in agriculture-related fields or as casual workers (AOR 1.77 (95% CI 1.18 to 2.64)). Among non-migrant mothers, in addition to similar predictors including residence in big cities (AOR 1.40 (95% CI 1.13 to 1.73)), knowledge about EBF (AOR 1.25 (95% CI 1.02 to 1.53)) and low intention of breast feeding in the first month post partum (AOR 0.46 (95% CI 0.31 to 0.70)], early initiation of breast feeding (EIBF) (AOR 1.78 (95% CI 1.35 to 2.33)) and caesarean delivery (AOR 0.74 (95% CI 0.60 to 0.89)) were also factors associated with EBF.

Conclusions

There was no significant difference in the prevalence of EBF between migrant and non-migrant mothers in urban China. Premature birth and maternal occupation in agriculture-related fields or casual work were distinctive factors associated with EBF for migrants, while EIBF and caesarean delivery were unique predictors for non-migrants.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR-ROC-17014148; Pre-results.
Eosinophilic oesophagitis: recent advances and practical management
Authors: Attwood Stephen , Epstein Jenny
Published: September 2020

Eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) is a disease identified just over 30 years ago. The main symptom is dysphagia. EoE is initially inflammatory and progresses to fibrosis. There are differences in clinical presentation between young children and adults. Diagnosis is by endoscopy and six biopsies at varying positions of the oesophageal lining. Blood tests are of no diagnostic value as the condition is mediated by IgG4local mucosal pathology. Endoscopic signs are distinct from those of gastro-oesophageal reflux. Histological signs of EoE are >15 eosinophils/high-power field on a background of hyperplastic mucosa. Options of therapy include diet restriction, proton pump inhibitors therapy and topical steroids but there is a dearth of randomised control trials to define the optimum approach. The only licenced therapy for EoE is budesonide orodispersible tablet, a specific formulation for oesophageal topical steroid therapy. EoE is the most common cause of spontaneous perforation in the oesophagus. Stricture formation occurs in up to 10% and may require therapeutic dilatation.
Predictivity lost, predictivity regained: A Miltonian cosmic censorship conjecture
Authors: Emparan Roberto
Published: September 2020

Cosmic censorship is known to fail in some well-controlled phenomena, calling into question the predictive power of General Relativity and opening up the possibility of observing Planck-scale physics. We propose that the cosmic censorship conjecture can be amended so that its spirit prevails. Naked singularities that, classically, have zero mass are allowed. Physically, these are Planck-sized “black holes”, which evaporate in a few Planck times. General Relativity fails only for a tiny interval in time, to then quickly regain control in a Miltonian evolution that returns us to the predictive paradise of Einstein’s equations. If this refinement of the conjecture is correct, then, even though Nature does allow to expose breakdowns in the smooth fabric of spacetime, it limits them to a mostly harmless minimum.
Pandemic response and international law: The case of COVID-19
Authors: Qin Qian , Luo Tianyu
Published: September 2020

The coronavirus pandemic is currently raging throughout the world. The ensuing crisis has acquired a multidimensional nature, affecting all levels of society, including international health legal order. For international health law, the World Health Organization (WHO) is the international institution with a core mandate in issues of global health. Moreover, the International Health Regulations (IHR) is the main legally binding instrument laying down rules for the cross-border spread of contagious diseases. Against this backdrop, this paper evaluates the issues and disputes under the current regimes of international health law. The paper then offers some thoughts by way of answers to the research questions.
Jingui Shenqi Pills Regulate Bone‐Fat Balance in Murine Ovariectomy‐Induced Osteoporosis with Kidney Yang Deficiency
Authors: Shang Qi , Zhao Wenhua , Shen Gengyang , Yu Xiang , Zhang Zhida , Huang Xuan , Qin Weicheng , Chen Guifeng , Yu Fuyong , Tang Kai , Chen Honglin , Li Juanmin , Liang De , Tang Jingjing , Jiang Xiaobing , Ren Hui
Published: September 2020

Jingui Shenqi Pills (JGSQP) have been a staple of traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, used primarily as a treatment for kidney yang deficiency (KYD). In vitro analyses of JGSQP revealed strong induction of osteogenic differentiation and inhibition of adipogenic differentiation in bone‐marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells. However, the mechanisms by which JGSQP regulate the bone‐fat balance in murine ovariectomy‐induced osteoporosis with KYD have not been reported. Materials and Methods. Two‐month‐old female C57BL/6 mice were divided randomly into three groups: those receiving a sham operation (Sham); those undergoing bilateral ovariectomy and selection of KYD syndrome (Model); and those subjected to both bilateral ovariectomy and KYD syndrome selection for 8 weeks, followed by JGSQP treatment for 4 weeks (JGSQP). In the Sham and Model groups, mice were given the same dose of distilled water orally for 4 weeks. Animals from all three groups were euthanised at the 12th week. Vertebral microarchitecture and histomorphology were examined by micro‐CT and H&E staining, respectively. In addition, we examined the mRNA expression of Akt, Wnt10b, Osterix (Osx), Fndc5, PPARγ, and Fabp4, as well as the protein of AKT, phosphorylation‐AKT (p‐AKT), BMP2, COL1A1, and FNDC5. Results. JGSQP treatment improved bone microarchitecture and mitigated histomorphological damage relative to the Model group. The osteoblast number (Ob.N/BS) and area (Ob.S/BS) were increased, whereas adipocyte number (adipocyte/tissue area) and area (adipocyte area/tissue area) were decreased in the JGSQP group. JGSQP treatment reduced the mRNA expression of Akt and adipogenesis‐related genes (Fndc5, PPARγ, and Fabp4) while promoting osteogenesis‐related genes (Wnt10b and Osx) mRNA expression. Additionally, the expression of p‐AKT, BMP2, and COL1A1 proteins was increased and FNDC5 protein expression was decreased after JGSQP treatment. Conclusions. JGSQP treatment reversed murine ovariectomy‐induced osteoporosis with KYD by controlling bone‐fat balance via AKT pathway.
Development of Autophagy Signature‐Based Prognostic Nomogram for Refined Glioma Survival Prognostication
Authors: Fan Yuxiang , Peng Xinyu , Li Baoqin , Zhao Gang
Published: September 2020

The current glioma classification could be optimized to cover such a separate and individualized prognosis ranging from a few months to over ten years. Considering its highly conserved role and potential in therapies, autophagy might be a promising element to be incorporated as a refinement for improved survival prognostication. The expression and RNA‐seq data of 881 glioma patients from the Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas were included, mapped with autophagy‐related genes. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis and Cox regression analysis were used for the autophagy signature establishment, which composed of MUL1, NPC1, and TRIM13. Validations were represented by Kaplan‐Meier plots and receiver operating curves (ROC). Cluster analysis suggested the IDH1 mutant involved in the favorable prognosis of the signature clusters. The signature was also immune‐related shown by the Gene Ontology analysis and the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis. The high signature risk group held a higher ESTIMATE score (p = 2.6e − 11) and stromal score (p = 1.8e − 10). CD276 significantly correlated with the signature (r = 0.51, p < 0.05). The final nomogram integrated with the autophagy signature, IDH1 mutation, and pathological grade was built with accuracy and discrimination (1‐year survival AUC = 0.812, 5‐year survival AUC = 0.822, and 10‐year survival AUC = 0.834). Its prognostic value and clinical utility were well‐defined by the superiority in the comparisons with the current World Health Organization glioma classification in ROC (p < 0.05) and decision curve analysis. The autophagy signature‐based IDH1 mutation and grade nomogram refined glioma classification for a more individualized and clinically applicable survival estimation and inspired potential autophagy‐related therapies.
Sentiment Analysis of Shared Tweets on Global Warming on Twitter with Data Mining Methods: A Case Study on Turkish Language
Authors: Kirelli Yasin , Arslankaya Seher
Published: September 2020

As the usage of social media has increased, the size of shared data has instantly surged and this has been an important source of research for environmental issues as it has been with popular topics. Sentiment analysis has been used to determine people's sensitivity and behavior in environmental issues. However, the analysis of Turkish texts has not been investigated much in literature. In this article, sentiment analysis of Turkish tweets about global warming and climate change is determined by machine learning methods. In this regard, by using algorithms that are determined by supervised methods (linear classifiers and probabilistic classifiers) with trained thirty thousand randomly selected Turkish tweets, sentiment intensity (positive, negative, and neutral) has been detected and algorithm performance ratios have been compared. This study also provides benchmarking results for future sentiment analysis studies on Turkish texts.
Serum Irisin Levels, Endothelial Dysfunction, and Inflammation in Pediatric Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Huerta-Delgado Anna S. , Roffe-Vazquez Daniel N. , Gonzalez-Gil Adrian M. , Villarreal-Calderón José R. , Tamez-Rivera Oscar , Rodriguez-Gutierrez Nora A. , Castillo Elena C. , Silva-Platas Christian , Garcia-Rivas Gerardo , Elizondo-Montemayor Leticia
Published: September 2020

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) has increased in the pediatric population. Irisin, an adipomyokine, is involved in white adipose tissue browning, energy expenditure, insulin sensitivity, and anti-inflammatory pathways. Data on the associations among circulating irisin levels, soluble cell adhesion molecules (sCAMs), and inflammatory cytokines is scarce in children and adolescents with MetS and T2DM. Subjects aged 6-16 years were grouped into T2DM, MetS, and healthy controls. Serum irisin levels were significantly lower in the MetS (6.6 [2.8-18.0] ng/mL) and T2DM (6.8 [2.2-23.2] ng/mL) groups compared with controls (30.3 [24.6-57.1] ng/mL). Negative correlations between irisin and the BMI percentile (R=−0.358), WC percentile (R=−0.308), and triglycerides (R=−0.284) were identified, while positive associations with TC (R=0.287), HDL-c (R=0.488), and LDL-c (R=0.414) were observed. Significant negative correlations were found between irisin and sNCAM (R=−0.382), sICAM-2 (R=−0.300), sVCAM-1 (R=−0.292), MCP-1 (R=−0.308), and IFN-α2 (R=−0.406). Of note, lower concentrations of most sCAMs (sICAM-1, sPSGL-1, sP-selectin, sEpCAM, sICAM-2, sALCAM, sPECAM-1, sCD44, sVCAM-1, sICAM-3, sL-selectin, and sNCAM) were shown in T2DM subjects compared with MetS patients. Lower irisin levels induce a lack of inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammation. In T2DM, higher ROS, AGEs, glucotoxicity, and inflammation trigger endothelial cell apoptosis, which downregulates the sCAM expression as a compensatory mechanism to prevent further vascular damage. In opposition, in subjects with MetS that have not yet developed T2DM and its accompanying stressors, the upregulation of the sCAM expression is ensued.
Application of the Improved PSO-Based Extended Domain Method in Engineering
Authors: Bai Bin , Guo Zhi-wei , Wu Qi-liang , Zhang Junyi , Cui Yan-chao
Published: September 2020

The standard particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is the boundary constraints of simple variables, which can hardly be directly applied in the constrained optimization. Furthermore, the standard PSO algorithm often fails to obtain the global optimal solution when the dimensionality is high for unconstrained optimization. Thus, an improved PSO-based extended domain method (IPSO-EDM) is proposed to solve engineering optimization problems. The core idea of this method is that the original feasible region is expanded in the constrained optimization which is transformed into the unconstrained optimization by combining the ergodicity of chaos optimization and the evolutionary variation to realize global search. In addition, to verify the effectiveness of the IPSO-EDM, an unconstrained optimization case study, four constrained optimization case studies, and one engineering example are investigated. The results indicate that the computational accuracy of the IPSO-EDM is comparable to that provided by the existing literature, and the computational efficiency of the IPSO-EDM is significantly improved. Meanwhile, this method has conspicuous global search ability and stability in engineering optimization.
Effect of Rosa laevigata on PM10‐Induced Inflammatory Response of Human Lung Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ko Hyun Min , Choi Seung-Han , Kim Yumi , An Eun-Jin , Lee Seung-Hyeon , Kim Kwanil , Jung Hee-Jae , Jang Hyeung-Jin
Published: September 2020

Particulate matter 10 (PM10) with a diameter of less than 10 mm causes inflammation and allergic reactions in the airways and lungs, which adversely affects asthmatic patients. In this study, we examined the anti‐inflammatory effects of Rosa laevigata (RL), which has been previously investigated medicinally in Korea and China for the discovery of plant‐derived anti‐inflammatory agents with low side effects, using a PM10‐induced lung inflammatory disease model. Using MTT assay, we confirmed that in A549 cells pretreated with RL, cytotoxicity induced by PM10 (100 μg/mL) exposure was attenuated. In addition, western blotting revealed that RL suppressed the expression level of MAPK/NF‐κB pathways and its downstream signal, COX‐2 in PM10‐induced A549 cells. Moreover, real‐time PCR demonstrated that RL downregulated the mRNA expression level of inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐13, and IL‐17) in PM10‐induced A549 cells. Based on the results of this study, RL has been shown to relieve inflammation in the lungs due to PM10 exposure. Therefore, RL may be developed as a natural remedy for respiratory diseases caused by PM10 exposure.
A Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptor Modulator Attenuated Secondary Brain Injury and Improved Neurological Functions of Mice after ICH
Authors: Bobinger T. , Bäuerle T. , Seyler L. , v Horsten S. , Schwab S. , Huttner H. B. , Manaenko A.
Published: September 2020

Background. Stroke activates the immune system and induces brain infiltration by immune cells, aggravating brain injury. Poststroke immunomodulation via (S1P-)receptor modulation is beneficial; however, the S1P-modulator in clinical use (FTY-720) is unspecific, and undesirable side effects have been reported. Previously, we tested effects of a novel selective S1P-receptor modulator, Siponimod, on ICH-induced brain injury in acute stage of the disease. In the current study, we investigated whether protective effects of Siponimod, evaluated in a short-term study, will protect the brain of ICH animals at long term as well. Methods. 134 C57BL/6N mice were divided into sham and ICH-operated groups. Collagenase model of ICH was employed. ICH animals were divided into Siponimod treated and nontreated. Dose- and time-dependent effects of Siponimod were investigated. Contraplay between development of brain injury and the number of lymphocytes infiltrating the brain was investigated by forelimb placing, T-Maze test, brain water content calculation, MRI scanning, and immunostaining. Results. Depending on the therapeutic strategy, Siponimod attenuated the development of brain edema, decreased ICH-induced ventriculomegaly and improved neurological functions of animals after ICH. It was associated with less lymphocytes in the brain of ICH animals. Conclusion. Siponimod is able to decrease the brain injury and improves neurological functions of animals after ICH.
Preconditioning Effect of High‐Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Berberine Supplementation on the Gene Expression of Angiogenesis Regulators and Caspase‐3 Protein in the Rats with Myocardial Ischemia‐Reperfusion (IR) Injury
Authors: Banaei Parisa , Nazem Farzad , Nazari Afshin , Arjomand Arash
Published: September 2020

Objective. It has been shown that angiogenesis is a desirable treatment for patients with ischemic heart disease. We set out to investigate the impact of high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) and berberine supplementation on the gene expression of angiogenesis‐related factors and caspase‐3 protein in rats suffering from myocardial ischemic‐reperfusion injury. Methods. Fifty rats were divided into the following groups: (1) trained, (2) berberine supplemented, (3) combined, and (4) IR. Each cohort underwent five sessions of HIIT per week for a duration of 8 weeks followed by induction of ischemia. Seven days after completion of reperfusion, changes in the gene expression of angiogenesis‐related factors and caspase‐3 protein were evaluated in the heart tissue. Results. We observed a significant difference between four groups in the transcript levels of vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF), fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF2), and thrombospondin‐1(TSP‐1) (p ≤ 0.05). However, the difference in endostatin (ENDO) levels was not significant among the groups despite a discernible reduction (p ≥ 0.05). Moreover, caspase‐3 protein and infarct size were significantly reduced in the intervention groups (p ≤ 0.05), and cardiac function increased in response to these interventions. Conclusion. The treatments exert their effect, likely, by reducing caspase‐3 protein and increasing the expression of angiogenesis‐promoting factors, concomitant with a reduction in inhibitors of the process.
Effects of Thermal Radiation, Heat Generation, and Induced Magnetic Field on Hydromagnetic Free Convection Flow of Couple Stress Fluid in an Isoflux-Isothermal Vertical Channel
Authors: Zaidi Hasan Nihal , Yousif Mohammed , Nazia Nasreen S.
Published: September 2020

The study scrutinizes the effects of thermal radiation, heat generation, and induced magnetic field on steady, fully developed hydromagnetic free convection flow of an incompressible viscous and electrically conducting couple stress fluid in a vertical channel. The channel walls are maintained at an isoflux-isothermal condition, such that the left channel wall is maintained at a constant heat flux. In contrast, the right channel wall is maintained at a constant temperature. The governing simultaneous equations are solved analytically utilizing the method of undetermined coefficient, and closed form solutions in dimensionless form have been acquired for the velocity field, the induced magnetic field, and the temperature field. The expression for the induced current density has been also obtained. A parametric study for the velocity, temperature, and induced magnetic field profiles, as well as for the skin-friction coefficient, Nusselt number, and induced current density, is conducted and discussed graphically.
PARK7 Diminishes Oxidative Stress-Induced Mucosal Damage in Celiac Disease
Authors: Veres-Székely Apor , Bernáth Mária , Pap Domonkos , Rokonay Réka , Szebeni Beáta , Takács István M. , Lippai Rita , Cseh Áron , Szabó Attila J. , Vannay Ádám
Published: September 2020

Coeliac disease (CD) is a chronic, immune-mediated small intestinal enteropathy, accompanied with gluten-triggered oxidative damage of duodenal mucosa. Previously, our research group reported an increased mucosal level of the antioxidant protein Parkinson’s disease 7 (PARK7) in children with CD. In the present study, we investigated the role of increased PARK7 level on the epithelial cell and mucosal integrity of the small intestine. The presence of PARK7 was investigated using immunofluorescent staining on duodenal mucosa of children with CD and on FHs74Int duodenal epithelial cells. To investigate the role of oxidative stress, FHs74Int cells were treated with H2O2 in the absence or presence of Comp23, a PARK7-binding compound. Intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was determined by DCFDA-based assay. Cell viability was measured by MTT, LDH, and Annexin V apoptosis assays. Disruption of cytoskeleton and cell adhesion was investigated by immunofluorescence staining and by real-time RT PCR. Effect of PARK7 on mucosal permeability was investigated ex vivo using intestinal sacs derived from control and Comp-23-pretreated mice. Comp23 treatment reduced the H2O2-induced intracellular accumulation of ROS, thus preserving the integrity of the cytoskeleton and also the viability of the FHs74Int cells. Accordingly, Comp23 treatment increased the expression of antioxidants (NRF2, TRX1, GCLC, HMOX1, NQO1), cell-cycle regulators (TP53, CDKN1A, PCNA, BCL2, BAX), and cell adhesion molecules (ZO1, CDH1, VCL, ITGB5) of H2O2-treated cells. Pretreatment with Comp23 considerably decreased the small intestinal permeability. In this study, we demonstrate that PARK7-binding Comp23 reduces the oxidative damage of duodenal epithelial cells, via increased expression of NRF2- and P53-regulated genes. Our results suggest that PARK7 plays a significant role in the maintenance of mucosal integrity in CD.
Anti-Ramsey Numbers in Complete k-Partite Graphs
Authors: Ding Jili , Bian Hong , Yu Haizheng
Published: September 2020

The anti-Ramsey number ARG,H is the maximum number of colors in an edge-coloring of G such that G contains no rainbow subgraphs isomorphic to H. In this paper, we discuss the anti-Ramsey numbers ARKp1,p2,…,pk,Tn, ARKp1,p2,…,pk,ℳ, and ARKp1,p2,…,pk,C of Kp1,p2,…,pk, where Tn,ℳ, and C denote the family of all spanning trees, the family of all perfect matchings, and the family of all Hamilton cycles in Kp1,p2,…,pk, respectively.
Strategic Behavior of Customers and Optimal Control for Batch Service Polling Systems with Priorities
Authors: Jiang Tao , Lu Xingzheng , Liu Lu , Lv Jun , Chai Xudong
Published: September 2020

During the past few years, batch service systems have attracted considerable attention due to their wide area of applications. In this present paper, we study a special batch service polling system (the so-called Israeli queue) with priorities. Different from the previous papers which focus on the performance analysis, we aim to investigate the strategic behavior of customers and optimal design for the underlying queueing model. By considering two levels of information (observable and unobservable) provided upon customers’ arrival, we, respectively, derive the equilibrium strategies of high-priority and low-priority customers, regarding the joining or balking dilemma. We also present some numerical examples to reveal the impacts of several parameters on the equilibrium strategies, together with some intuitive explanations. Finally, we formulate the revenue function of the service provider and present the Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm to seek the optimal service prices for the high-priority and low-priority customers to maximize the service provider’s revenue under the two levels of information.
Image Recognition Based on Multiscale Pooling Deep Convolution Neural Networks
Authors: Sang Haitao , Xiang Li , Chen Shifeng , Chen Bo , Yan Li
Published: September 2020

Depth neural network (DNN) has become a research hotspot in the field of image recognition. Developing a suitable solution to introduce effective operations and layers into DNN model is of great significance to improve the performance of image and video recognition. To achieve this, through making full use of block information of different sizes and scales in the image, a multiscale pooling deep convolution neural network model is designed in this paper. No matter how large the feature map is, multiscale sampling layer will output three fixed-size character matrices. Experimental results demonstrate that this method greatly improves the performance of the current single training image, which is suitable for solving the image generation, style migration, image editing, and other issues. It provides an effective solution for further industrial practice in the fields of medical image, remote sensing, and satellite imaging.
Biodegradable Films from Phytosynthesized TiO2 Nanoparticles and Nanofungal Chitosan as Probable Nanofertilizers
Authors: EL-Hefnawy Mohamed E.
Published: September 2020

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) have great importance for plant nutrition and growth, at little concentrations. The bioactive polymer chitosan and its NPs provide outstanding characteristics for capping and enhancements of nanometals. The phytosynthesis of TiO2-NPswas promisingly achieved using an extract of pomegranate rind, whereas the fungal chitosan (FCt) was produced from Aspergillus brasiliensis biomass and was transformed to nanoform. The phytosynthesis of TiO2-NPs generated homogenous spherical particles with 13 to 64 nm range and 37 nm mean size. The extracted FCt had 92% deacetylation degree and a molecular weight of 28,400 Da. The infrared spectral analysis of TiO2-NPs, FCt-NPs, and their nanocomposite indicated their functional groups and biochemical interactions. The released amounts of TiO2-NPs from their nanocomposite with FCt–NPs were 31% and 50% after the first and third hour, respectively. The nanocomposite film had a faster hydrodegradability rate which resulted from TiO2-NP addition. Therefore, the fabricated nanocomposite from FCt/TiO2-NPs could have elevated potentiality for application as liquid spray for foliar feeding or as powder for soil amendment.
Roles of TRP Channels in Neurological Diseases
Authors: Wang Rui , Tu Sheng , Zhang Jianmin , Shao Anwen
Published: September 2020

Transient receptor potential (TRP) proteins consist of a superfamily of cation channels that have been involved in diverse physiological processes in the brain as well as in the pathogenesis of neurological disease. TRP channels are widely expressed in the brain, including neurons and glial cells, as well as in the cerebral vascular endothelium and smooth muscle. Members of this channel superfamily show a wide variety of mechanisms ranging from ligand binding to voltage, physical, and chemical stimuli, implying the promising therapeutic potential of TRP in neurological diseases. In this review, we focus on the physiological functions of TRP channels in the brain and the pathological roles in neurological disorders to explore future potential neuroprotective strategies.
Estimation of Generalized Gompertz Distribution Parameters under Ranked-Set Sampling
Authors: Obeidat Mohammed , Al-Nasser Amjad , Al-Omari Amer I.
Published: September 2020

This paper studies estimation of the parameters of the generalized Gompertz distribution based on ranked-set sample (RSS). Maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian approaches are considered. Approximate confidence intervals for the unknown parameters are constructed using both the normal approximation to the asymptotic distribution of the ML estimators and bootstrapping methods. Bayes estimates and credible intervals of the unknown parameters are obtained using differential evolution Markov chain Monte Carlo and Lindley’s methods. The proposed methods are compared via Monte Carlo simulations studies and an example employing real data. The performance of both ML and Bayes estimates is improved under RSS compared with simple random sample (SRS) regardless of the sample size. Bayes estimates outperform the ML estimates for small samples, while it is the other way around for moderate and large samples.
Ant_ViBe: Improved ViBe Algorithm Based on Ant Colony Clustering under Dynamic Background
Authors: Yue Yingying , Xu Dan , Qian Zhiming , Shi Hongzhen , Zhang Hao
Published: September 2020

Foreground target detection algorithm (FTDA) is a fundamental preprocessing step in computer vision and video processing. A universal background subtraction algorithm for video sequences (ViBe) is a fast, simple, efficient and with optimal sample attenuation FTDA based on background modeling. However, the traditional ViBe has three limitations: (1) the noise problem under dynamic background; (2) the ghost problem; and (3) the target adhesion problem. In order to solve the three problems above, ant colony clustering is introduced and Ant_ViBe is proposed in this paper to improve the background modeling mechanism of the traditional ViBe, from the aspects of initial sample modeling, pheromone and ant colony update mechanism, and foreground segmentation criterion. Experimental results show that the Ant_ViBe greatly improved the noise resistance under dynamic background, eased the ghost and targets adhesion problem, and surpassed the typical algorithms and their fusion algorithms in most evaluation indexes.
Downregulated Recycling Process but Not De Novo Synthesis of Glutathione Limits Antioxidant Capacity of Erythrocytes in Hypoxia
Authors: Wang Yueming , Zhao Nannan , Xiong Yanlei , Zhang Jiashen , Zhao Dongmei , Yin Yancun , Song Lele , Yin Yipeng , Wang Jing , Luan Xiying , Xiong Yanlian
Published: September 2020

Red blood cells (RBCs) are susceptible to sustained free radical damage during circulation, while the changes of antioxidant capacity and regulatory mechanism of RBCs under different oxygen gradients remain unclear. Here, we investigated the changes of oxidative damage and antioxidant capacity of RBCs in different oxygen gradients and identified the underlying mechanisms using an in vitro model of the hypoxanthine/xanthine oxidase (HX/XO) system. In the present study, we reported that the hypoxic RBCs showed much higher oxidative stress injury and lower antioxidant capacity compared with normoxic RBCs. In addition, we found that the disturbance of the recycling process, but not de novo synthesis of glutathione (GSH), accounted for the significantly decreased antioxidant capacity of hypoxic RBCs compared to normoxic RBCs. We further elucidated the underlying molecular mechanism by which oxidative phosphorylation of Band 3 blocked the hexose monophosphate pathway (HMP) and decreased NADPH production aggravating the dysfunction of GSH synthesis in hypoxic RBCs under oxidative conditions.
TILs and Anti-PD1 Therapy: An Alternative Combination Therapy for PDL1 Negative Metastatic Cervical Cancer
Authors: Yin Huanhuan , Guo Wei , Sun Xiangling , Li Ruili , Feng Cuihua , Tan Yujie
Published: September 2020

Background. We investigated the efficacy of TILs and anti-PD1 combination therapy in patients with metastatic cervical cancer with low MSI expression and PDL1-negative. Methods. A total of 80 patients were put on TILs and anti-PD1 combination therapy, and the progression-free survival time (PFS) and overall survival time (OS) were assessed by Kaplan–Meier analysis. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors that could predict the prognosis of metastatic cervical cancer in the previously described patients. Results. The objective response rate was 25%, whereas the mPFS and mOS were 6.1 and 11.3 months, respectively. The therapeutic efficacy was influenced by the characteristics of TILs, infection with HPV, and development of fever just after the therapy. Conclusion. Overall, our results show that the combination therapy of TILs and anti-PD1 significantly improves the prognosis of metastatic cervical cancer.
Effects of Simulation‐Guided Microwave Presintering Process on the Preparation and Final Properties of Pure Ceramic Rings: Lower Sintering Temperature and Higher Mechanical Properties
Authors: Lu Xiao , Zhou Tong-Tong , Zhao Feng-He , Wang Xiao-Xiong , Chen Li-Xiang , Long Yun-Ze
Published: September 2020

In order to improve the performance and endurance of steel rings used for twisting and winding yarns in the textile industry, a more wear‐resistant ceramic version is studied and examined by conducting multiple simulations combined with microwave sintering experiments of the ring preparation process, aiming to reduce manufacturing costs and improve efficiency. The three‐dimensional (3D) electromagnetic field simulation software HFSS is used to simulate the electromagnetic field distribution in the microwave sintering cavity and to determine the electromagnetic region with the most uniform electromagnetic field to guide the microwave sintering experiments. The 3Y‐TZP ceramic rings are shaped by gel‐casting. The effect of presintering on the performance of ceramic rings is investigated by applying conventional sintering and microwave sintering methods. The experimental results show that the simulation‐guided microwave sintering process can resolve the deficiency of uneven microwave sintering at low temperatures. Comparing the final sintering temperatures and mechanical properties of the final ceramic‐sintered rings obtained by microwave presintering to those obtained by conventional presintering, microwave presintered sample has a final temperature of 1400°C, which is 100°C lower than that of conventional presintering, which is 1500°C; its average grain size of 0.18 μm is dramatically smaller than that of conventional presintering, which is 0.24 μm, with about 80% of the grain sizes present in the range of 0.1‐0.2 μm and a relative density of about 99%, as opposed to conventional presintering’s 70% falling between 0.2 and 0.3 μm and relative density of about 98%; the Vickers hardness and fracture toughness for microwave presintered sample reach 1550 kg·f·mm−2 and 9.05 MPa m1/2, respectively, which are both greater than 1431 kg·f·mm−2 and 8.86 MPa m1/2 in the conventional samples.
Nonsurgical Treatment of Class III Malocclusion with Both Anterior and Posterior Crossbites Combined with Impacted and Congenitally Missed Teeth
Authors: Alogaibi Yahya A. , Afify Ahmed R. , Al-Fraidi Ahmad A. , Hassan Ali A.
Published: September 2020

Class III malocclusions present a great challenge for many orthodontists, especially if malocclusions are found in adult patients and alongside other dental problems. This case report shows an adult patient with a skeletal class III anterior crossbite, a unilateral posterior crossbite on the right side, a congenital absence of both lateral incisors and retained deciduous teeth, and shift in the lower midline. The upper retained deciduous teeth and lower premolars were extracted. Leveling and alignment were initiated. Build-up composite resin placed on the first molars allowed for bite opening. The crossbites were corrected by using sequentially larger archwires combined with class III elastics until both the anterior and posterior crossbites were corrected. The impacted upper right canine was exposed using the closed eruption technique and leveled into the position of the upper lateral incisor. Miniscrews were utilized to close the residual spaces. Both canines were reshaped to simulate the upper lateral incisors. At the end of the treatment, good esthetic and functional results were obtained. In conclusion, orthodontic camouflage can be a viable option for treating patients with multiple skeletal and dental problems.
Impacts of Respiratory Muscle Training on Respiratory Functions, Maximal Exercise Capacity, Functional Performance, and Quality of Life in School-Aged Children with Postoperative Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Authors: Moawd Samah A. , Azab Alshimaa R. , Ibrahim Zizi M. , Verma Anju , Abdelbasset Walid Kamal
Published: September 2020

Objectives. Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a birth defect affecting the respiratory functions, functional performance, and quality of life (QOL) in school-aged children. Rarely have studies been conducted to evaluate the impacts of respiratory muscle training on school-aged children with postoperative CDH. The current study was designed to evaluate the impacts of respiratory muscle training on respiratory function, maximal exercise capacity, functional performance, and QOL in these children. Methods. This study is a randomized control study. 40 children with CDH (age: 9-11 years) were assigned randomly into two groups. The first group conducted an incentive spirometer exercise combined with inspiratory muscle training (study group, n=20), whereas the second group conducted only incentive spirometer exercise (control group, n=20), thrice weekly for twelve consecutive weeks. Respiratory functions, maximal exercise capacity, functional performance, and pediatric quality of life inventory (PedsQL) were assessed before and after the treatment program. Results. Regarding the posttreatment analysis, the study group showed significant improvements in all outcome measures (FVC%, p<0.001; FEV1%, p=0.002; VO2max, p=0.008; VE/VCO2 slope, p=0.002; 6-MWT, p<0.001; and PedsQL, p<0.001), whereas the control group did not show significant changes (p>0.05). Conclusion. Respiratory muscle training may improve respiratory functions, maximal exercise capacities, functional performance, and QOL in children with postoperative CDH. Clinical commendations have to be considered to include respiratory muscle training in pulmonary rehabilitation programs in children with a history of CDH.
A Review of Techniques and Methods for IoT Applications in Collaborative Cloud-Fog Environment
Authors: Jiang Jielin , Li Zheng , Tian Yuan , Al-Nabhan Najla
Published: September 2020

Cloud computing is widely used for its powerful and accessible computing and storage capacity. However, with the development trend of Internet of Things (IoTs), the distance between cloud and terminal devices can no longer meet the new requirements of low latency and real-time interaction of IoTs. Fog has been proposed as a complement to the cloud which moves servers to the edge of the network, making it possible to process service requests of terminal devices locally. Despite the fact that fog computing solves many obstacles for the development of IoT, there are still many problems to be solved for its immature technology. In this paper, the concepts and characteristics of cloud and fog computing are introduced, followed by the comparison and collaboration between them. We summarize main challenges IoT faces in new application requirements (e.g., low latency, network bandwidth constraints, resource constraints of devices, stability of service, and security) and analyze fog-based solutions. The remaining challenges and research directions of fog after integrating into IoT system are discussed. In addition, the key role that fog computing based on 5G may play in the field of intelligent driving and tactile robots is prospected.
An Improved Unscented Kalman Filter Algorithm for Radar Azimuth Mutation
Authors: You Dazhang , Liu Pan , Shang Wei , Zhang Yepeng , Kang Yawei , Xiong Jun
Published: September 2020

An improved UKF (Unscented Kalman Filter) algorithm is proposed to solve the problem of radar azimuth mutation. Since the radar azimuth angle will restart to count after each revolution of the radar, and when the aircraft just passes the abrupt angle change, the radar observation measurement will have a sudden change, which has serious consequences and is solved by the proposed novel UKF based on SVD. In order to improve the tracking accuracy and stability of the radar tracking system further, the SVD-MUKF (Singular Value Decomposition-based Memory Unscented Kalman Filter) based on multiple memory fading is constructed. Furthermore, several simulation results show that the SVD-MUKF algorithm proposed in this paper is better than the SVD-UKF (Singular Value Decomposition of Unscented Kalman Filter) algorithm and classical UKF algorithm in accuracy and stability. Last but not the least, the SVD-MUKF can achieve stable tracking of targets even in the case of angle mutation.