bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ipragliflozin Additively Ameliorates Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Controlled with Metformin and Pioglitazone: A 24-Week Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Han Eugene , Lee Yong-ho , Lee Byung-Wan , Kang Eun Seok , Cha Bong-Soo
Published: January 2020

Despite the benefits of pioglitazone in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), many treated patients continue to experience disease progression. We aimed to investigate the additive effect of ipragliflozin on NAFLD in patients with type 2 diabetes treated with metformin and pioglitazone. In this 24-week randomized controlled trial, 44 patients with type 2 diabetes and comorbid NAFLD were either randomized to receive 50 mg/day of ipragliflozin as an add-on treatment (n = 29) or maintained on metformin and pioglitazone (n = 15). The fatty burden was assessed using the fatty liver index, NAFLD liver fat score, and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP). Changes in fat and muscle depots were measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and abdominal computed tomography scans. The enrolled patients were relatively controlled (mean baseline glycated hemoglobin of 6.6% ± 0.6%) and centrally obese (mean waist circumference of 101.6 ± 10.9 cm). At week 24, patients in the ipragliflozin add-on group exhibited reduced hepatic fat content (fatty liver index: −9.8 ± 1.9, p = 0.002; NAFLD liver fat score: −0.5 ± 0.2, p = 0.049; CAP: −8.2 ± 7.8 dB/m2, p = 0.133). Ipragliflozin add-on therapy also reduced whole-body visceral fat and the ratio of visceral to subcutaneous fat (change in whole-body visceral fat: −69.6 ± 21.5 g; change in abdominal visceral fat: −26.2 ± 3.7 cm2; abdominal visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio: −0.15 ± 0.04; all p < 0.05). In conclusion, ipragliflozin treatment significantly ameliorates liver steatosis and reduces excessive fat in euglycemic patients with type 2 diabetes and NAFLD taking metformin and pioglitazone.
Clinical Factors Associated with Adherence to the Follow-Up Examination after Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test in National Colorectal Cancer Screening
Authors: Kim Byung Chang , Kang Minjoo , Park Eunjung , Shim Jeong-Im , Kang Shinhee , Lee Jessie , Tchoe Ha Jin , Kong Kyeong Ae , Kim Duk Hwan , Kim Yu Jin , Choi Kui Son , Moon Chang Mo
Published: January 2020

Background: The compliance with the follow-up examination after a positive fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is lower than expected. We aimed to evaluate the adherence rate to the follow-up examination in patients with a positive FOBT and to identify the clinical factors associated with this adherence. Methods: The study population comprised adults aged ≥50 years who participated in the National Cancer Screening Program for colorectal cancer (CRC) in 2013. Compliance was defined as undergoing follow-up examination within 1 year of a positive FOBT. Results: From 214,131 individuals with a positive FOBT, 120,911 (56.5%) were in the compliance group and 93,220 (43.5%) were in the non-compliance group. On multivariate analysis, good compliance was associated with men (odds ratio (OR) = 1.12, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.09–1.15)), younger ages (70–79 years, OR = 2.19 (2.09–2.31); 60–69 years, OR = 3.29 (3.13–3.46); 50–59 years, OR = 3.57 (3.39–3.75) vs. >80 years), previous experience of CRC screening (a negative FOBT, OR = 1.18 (1.15–1.21); a positive FOBT, OR = 2.42 (2.31–2.54)), absent previous experience of colonoscopy or barium enema (OR = 2.06 (1.99–2.13)), higher economic income (quartile, 75%, OR = 1.14 (1.11–1.17); 100%, OR = 1.22 (1.19–1.25)), current smokers (OR = 1.12 (1.09–1.15)), alcohol intake (OR = 1.03 (1.01–1.05)), active physical activity (≥3 times/week, OR = 1.13 (1.11–1.15)), depression (OR = 1.11 (1.08–1.14)), and present comorbidities (Charlson Comorbidity Index, ≥1). Conclusion: This study identified clinical factors, namely, male, younger ages, prior experience of fecal test, absent history of colonoscopy or double-contrast barium enema (DCBE) within 5 years, and high socioeconomic status to be associated with good adherence to the follow-up examination after a positive FOBT.
Effect of Le Fort I Maxillary Advancement and Clockwise Rotation on the Anteromedial Cheek Soft Tissue Change in Patients with Skeletal Class III Pattern and Midface Deficiency: A 3D Imaging-Based Prediction Study
Authors: Lai Hsin-Chih , Denadai Rafael , Ho Cheng-Ting , Lin Hsiu-Hsia , Lo Lun-Jou
Published: January 2020

Patients with a skeletal Class III deformity may present with a concave contour of the anteromedial cheek region. Le Fort I maxillary advancement and rotational movements correct the problem but information on the impact on the anteromedial cheek soft tissue change has been insufficient to date. This three-dimensional (3D) imaging-assisted study assessed the effect of surgical maxillary advancement and clockwise rotational movements on the anteromedial cheek soft tissue change. Two-week preoperative and 6-month postoperative cone-beam computed tomography scans were obtained from 48 consecutive patients who received 3D-guided two-jaw orthognathic surgery for the correction of Class III malocclusion associated with a midface deficiency and concave facial profile. Postoperative 3D facial bone and soft tissue models were superimposed on the corresponding preoperative models. The region of interest at the anteromedial cheek area was defined. The 3D cheek volumetric change (mm3; postoperative minus preoperative models) and the preoperative surface area (mm2) were computed to estimate the average sagittal movement (mm). The 3D cheek mass position from orthognathic surgery-treated patients was compared with published 3D normative data. Surgical maxillary advancement (all p < 0.001) and maxillary rotation (all p < 0.006) had a significant effect on the 3D anteromedial cheek soft tissue change. In total, 78.9%, 78.8%, and 78.8% of the variation in the cheek soft tissue sagittal movement was explained by the variation in the maxillary advancement and rotation movements for the right, left, and total cheek regions, respectively. The multiple linear regression models defined ratio values (relationship) between the 3D cheek soft tissue sagittal movement and maxillary bone advancement and rotational movements of 0.627 and 0.070, respectively. Maxillary advancements of 3–4 mm and >4 mm resulted in a 3D cheek mass position (1.91 ± 0.53 mm and 2.36 ± 0.72 mm, respectively) similar (all p > 0.05) to the 3D norm value (2.15 ± 1.2 mm). This study showed that both Le Fort I maxillary advancement and rotational movements affect the anteromedial cheek soft tissue change, with the maxillary advancement movement presenting a larger effect on the cheek soft tissue movement than the maxillary rotational movement. These findings can be applied in future multidisciplinary-based decision-making processes for planning and executing orthognathic surgery.
The Vasoactive Mas Receptor in Essential Hypertension
Authors: Povlsen Amalie , Grimm Daniela , Wehland Markus , Infanger Manfred , Krüger Marcus
Published: January 2020

The renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) has been studied extensively, and with the inclusion of novel components, it has become evident that the system is much more complex than originally anticipated. According to current knowledge, there are two main axes of the RAAS, which counteract each other in terms of vascular control: The classical vasoconstrictive axis, renin/angiotensin-converting enzyme/angiotensin II/angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1R), and the opposing vasorelaxant axis, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2/angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas receptor (MasR). An abnormal activity within the system constitutes a hallmark in hypertension, which is a global health problem that predisposes cardiovascular and renal morbidities. In particular, essential hypertension predominates in the hypertensive population of more than 1.3 billion humans worldwide, and yet, the pathophysiology behind this multifactorial condition needs clarification. While commonly applied pharmacological strategies target the classical axis of the RAAS, discovery of the vasoprotective effects of the opposing, vasorelaxant axis has presented encouraging experimental evidence for a new potential direction in RAAS-targeted therapy based on the G protein-coupled MasR. In addition, the endogenous MasR agonist angiotensin-(1-7), peptide analogues, and related molecules have become the subject of recent studies within this field. Nevertheless, the clinical potential of MasR remains unclear due to indications of physiological-biased activities of the RAAS and interacting signaling pathways.
Could IL-17A Be a Novel Therapeutic Target in Diabetic Nephropathy?
Authors: Lavoz Carolina , Rayego-Mateos Sandra , Orejudo Macarena , Opazo-Ríos Lucas , Marchant Vanessa , Marquez-Exposito Laura , Tejera-Muñoz Antonio , Navarro-González Juan F. , Droguett Alejandra , Ortiz Alberto , Egido Jesús , Mezzano Sergio , Rodrigues-Diez Raúl R. , Ruiz-Ortega Marta
Published: January 2020

Chronic kidney disease has become a major medical issue in recent years due to its high prevalence worldwide, its association with premature mortality, and its social and economic implications. A number of patients gradually progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring then dialysis and kidney transplantation. Currently, approximately 40% of patients with diabetes develop kidney disease, making it the most prevalent cause of ESRD. Thus, more effective therapies for diabetic nephropathy are needed. In preclinical studies of diabetes, anti-inflammatory therapeutic strategies have been used to protect the kidneys. Recent evidence supports that immune cells play an active role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. Th17 immune cells and their effector cytokine IL-17A have recently emerged as promising targets in several clinical conditions, including renal diseases. Here, we review current knowledge regarding the involvement of Th17/IL-17A in the genesis of diabetic renal injury, as well as the rationale behind targeting IL-17A as an additional therapy in patients with diabetic nephropathy.
Mixed Neuroendocrine Non-Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: A Systematic Review of a Controversial and Underestimated Diagnosis
Authors: Frizziero Melissa , Chakrabarty Bipasha , Nagy Bence , Lamarca Angela , Hubner Richard A. , Valle Juan W. , McNamara Mairéad G.
Published: January 2020

Mixed neuroendocrine non-neuroendocrine neoplasms (MiNENs) represent a rare diagnosis of the gastro-entero-pancreatic tract. Evidence from the current literature regarding their epidemiology, biology, and management is of variable quality and conflicting. Based on available data, the MiNEN has an aggressive biological behaviour, mostly driven by its (often high-grade) neuroendocrine component, and a dismal prognosis. In most cases, the non-neuroendocrine component is of adenocarcinoma histology. Due to limitations in diagnostic methods and poor awareness within the scientific community, the incidence of MiNENs may be underestimated. In the absence of data from clinical trials, MiNENs are commonly treated according to the standard of care for pure neuroendocrine carcinomas or adenocarcinomas from the same sites of origin, based on the assumption of a biological similarity to their pure counterparts. However, little is known about the molecular aberrations of MiNENs, and their pathogenesis remains controversial; molecular/genetic studies conducted so far point towards a common monoclonal origin of the two components. In addition, mutations in tumour-associated genes, including TP53, BRAF, and KRAS, and microsatellite instability have emerged as potential drivers of MiNENs. This systematic review (91 full manuscripts or abstracts in English language) summarises the current reported literature on clinical, pathological, survival, and molecular/genetic data on MiNENs.
Genetics of Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Candidate Gene Studies
Authors: Pope Daniel H. , Davies Benjamin M. , Mowforth Oliver D. , Bowden A. Ramsay , Kotter Mark R. N.
Published: January 2020

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is estimated to be the most common cause of adult spinal cord impairment. Evidence that is suggestive of a genetic basis to DCM has been increasing over the last decade. A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, and HuGENet databases from their origin up to 14th December 2019 to evaluate the role of single genes in DCM in its onset, clinical phenotype, and response to surgical intervention. The initial search yielded 914 articles, with 39 articles being identified as eligible after screening. We distinguish between those contributing to spinal column deterioration and those contributing to spinal cord deterioration in assessing the evidence of genetic contributions to DCM. Evidence regarding a total of 28 candidate genes was identified. Of these, 22 were found to have an effect on the radiological onset of spinal column disease, while 12 genes had an effect on clinical onset of spinal cord disease. Polymorphisms of eight genes were found to have an effect on the radiological severity of DCM, while three genes had an effect on clinical severity. Polymorphisms of six genes were found to have an effect on clinical response to surgery in spinal cord disease. There are clear genetic effects on the development of spinal pathology, the central nervous system (CNS) response to bony pathology, the severity of both bony and cord pathology, and the subsequent response to surgical intervention. Work to disentangle the mechanisms by which the genes that are reviewed here exert their effects, as well as improved quality of evidence across diverse populations is required for further investigating the genetic contribution to DCM.
Genetic and Epigenetic Biomarkers of Immune Checkpoint Blockade Response
Authors: Xiao Qingyang , Nobre André , Piñeiro Pilar , Berciano-Guerrero Miguel-Ángel , Alba Emilio , Cobo Manuel , Lauschke Volker , Barragán Isabel
Published: January 2020

Checkpoint inhibitor therapy constitutes a promising cancer treatment strategy that targets the immune checkpoints to re-activate silenced T cell cytotoxicity. In recent pivotal trials, immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) demonstrated durable responses and acceptable toxicity, resulting in the regulatory approval of 8 checkpoint inhibitors to date for 15 cancer indications. However, up to ~85% of patients present with innate or acquired resistance to ICB, limiting its clinical utility. Current response biomarker candidates, including DNA mutation and neoantigen load, immune profiles, as well as programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, are only weak predictors of ICB response. Thus, identification of novel, more predictive biomarkers that could identify patients who would benefit from ICB constitutes one of the most important areas of immunotherapy research. Aberrant DNA methylation (5mC) and hydroxymethylation (5hmC) were discovered in multiple cancers, and dynamic changes of the epigenomic landscape have been identified during T cell differentiation and activation. While their role in cancer immunosuppression remains to be elucidated, recent evidence suggests that 5mC and 5hmC may serve as prognostic and predictive biomarkers of ICB-sensitive cancers. In this review, we describe the role of epigenetic phenomena in tumor immunoediting and other immune evasion related processes, provide a comprehensive update of the current status of ICB-response biomarkers, and highlight promising epigenomic biomarker candidates.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Journal of Composites Science in 2019
Authors:   Journal of Composites Science Editorial Office
Published: January 2020

The editorial team greatly appreciates the reviewers who have dedicated their considerable time and expertise to the journal’s rigorous editorial process over the past 12 months, regardless of whether the papers are finally published or not [...]
Resonant Forcing of the Climate System in Subharmonic Modes
Authors: Pinault Jean-Louis
Published: January 2020

During recent decades observation of climate archives has raised several questions. Concerning the mid-Pleistocene transition problem, conflicting sets of hypotheses highlight either the role of ice sheets or atmospheric carbon dioxide in causing the increase in duration and severity of ice age cycles. The role of the solar irradiance modulations in climate variability is frequently referenced but the underlying physical justifications remain most mysterious. Here, we extend the key mechanisms involving the oceanic Rossby waves in climate variability, to very long-period, multi-frequency Rossby waves winding around the subtropical gyres. Our study demonstrates that the climate system responds resonantly to solar and orbital forcing in eleven subharmonic modes. We advocate new hypotheses on the evolution of the past climate, implicating the deviation between forcing periods and natural periods according to the subharmonic modes, and the polar ice caps while challenging the role of the thermohaline circulation.
Theoretical Evaluation of the Hydrodynamic Characteristics of Arrays of Vertical Axisymmetric Floaters of Arbitrary Shape in front of a Vertical Breakwater
Authors: Konispoliatis Dimitrios N. , Mavrakos Spyridon A. , Katsaounis Georgios M.
Published: January 2020

The present paper deals with the analytical evaluation of the hydrodynamic characteristics of an array of vertical axisymmetric bodies of arbitrary shape, placed in front of a reflecting vertical breakwater, which can be conceived as floaters for wave power absorption. At the first part of the paper, the hydrodynamic interactions between the floaters and the adjacent breakwater are exactly taken into account using the method of images, whereas, the interaction phenomena between the floaters of the array are estimated using the multiple scattering approach. For the solution of the problem, the flow field around each floater of the array is subdivided into ring-shaped fluid regions, in each of which axisymmetric eigenfunction expansions for the velocity potential are made. In the second part of the paper, extensive theoretical results are presented concerning the exciting wave forces and the hydrodynamic coefficients for various arrays’ arrangements of axisymmetric floaters. The aim of the study is to show parametrically the effect that the vertical breakwater has on the hydrodynamic characteristics of each particular floater.
Sea Level Rise Scenario for 2100 A.D. in the Heritage Site of Pyrgi (Santa Severa, Italy)
Authors: Anzidei Marco , Doumaz Fawzi , Vecchio Antonio , Serpelloni Enrico , Pizzimenti Luca , Civico Riccardo , Greco Michele , Martino Giovanni , Enei Flavio
Published: January 2020

Sea level rise is one of the main risk factors for the preservation of cultural heritage sites located along the coasts of the Mediterranean basin. Coastal retreat, erosion, and storm surges are posing serious threats to archaeological and historical structures built along the coastal zones of this region. In order to assess the coastal changes by the end of 2100 under the expected sea level rise of about 1 m, we need a detailed determination of the current coastline position based on high resolution Digital Surface Models (DSM). This paper focuses on the use of very high-resolution Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) imagery for the generation of ultra-high-resolution mapping of the coastal archaeological area of Pyrgi, Italy, which is located near Rome. The processing of the UAV imagery resulted in the generation of a DSM and an orthophoto with an accuracy of 1.94 cm/pixel. The integration of topographic data with two sea level rise projections in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) AR5 2.6 and 8.5 climatic scenarios for this area of the Mediterranean are used to map sea level rise scenarios for 2050 and 2100. The effects of the Vertical Land Motion (VLM) as estimated from two nearby continuous Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) stations located as close as possible to the coastline are included in the analysis. Relative sea level rise projections provide values at 0.30 ± 0.15 cm by 2050 and 0.56 ± 0.22 cm by 2100 for the IPCC AR5 8.5 scenarios and at 0.13 ± 0.05 cm by 2050 and 0.17 ± 0.22 cm by 2100, for the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) 2.6 scenario. These values of rise correspond to a potential beach loss between 12.6% and 23.5% in 2100 for Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 2.6 and 8.5 scenarios, respectively, while, during the highest tides, the beach will be provisionally reduced by up to 46.4%. In higher sea level positions and storm surge conditions, the expected maximum wave run up for return time of 1 and 100 years is at 3.37 m and 5.76 m, respectively, which is capable to exceed the local dune system. With these sea level rise scenarios, Pyrgi with its nearby Etruscan temples and the medieval castle of Santa Severa will be exposed to high risk of marine flooding, especially during storm surges. Our scenarios show that suitable adaptation and protection strategies are required.
Experimental Study on Mechanism of Wave-Induced Liquefaction of Sand-Clay Seabed
Authors: Zhang Jun , Jiang Qin , Jeng Dongsheng , Zhang Changkuan , Chen Xindi , Wang Lizhu
Published: January 2020

In this study, a series of laboratory experiments for the response of wave induced clay-sand seabed were carried out to clarify the mechanism of liquefaction of clayey seabed. The experiments were conducted in an 80 m long wave flume. In the tests, the sand-clay beds were mixed with various clay contents (CC) from 0.5% to 15% and were tested for given wave conditions. The pore water pressure and the water elevation were measured in each test. Soil properties tests and scanning electron microscope (SEM) experiments on different seabed samples were carried out to further explore the mechanism of liquefaction. The experimental results indicated that the amplitude and accumulation of the excess pore water pressure (EPP) varied with different CC in the sand-clay bed. With the introduction of CC, micro-structure and properties (such as permeability and compressibility) of bed soils changed. Sand-clay bed presented more susceptibility to liquefy compared with pure sand bed. CC promoted seabed liquefaction, even if the added amount was very small (CC is 0.5%), however when CC exceeded a certain value (10% in this study), the mixed bed will not be liquefied. This phenomenon can be well explained by the micro-structure of sand-clay bed. CC within a sandy seabed, does not only affect the permeability, but also change the compressibility of seabed soils. For example, the microfabric of seabed vulnerable to liquefaction is loose. Clay aggregations generally gathered at the sand particle contact points. This microfabric is easily compressed under wave loads and allowed pore water to flow, resulting in the accumulation of pore water pressure. On the other hand, the microfabric of seabed that was resistant to liquefaction appeared to be more compact. Due to clay-filled gaps between the sand particles, the pore water is more difficult to flow when seabed was compressed. Furthermore, the tendency of seabed liquefaction is closely related to CC.
Land Governance from a Mobilities Perspective
Authors: Richter Christine , Derkzen Marthe , Zoomers Annelies
Published: January 2020

People have always been on the move, either in search for greener pastures, both figuratively and literally speaking, or in order to escape war, persecution, famine, or environmental hazard [...]
Proposals for a Discourse Analysis Practice Integrated into Digital Humanities: Theoretical Issues, Practical Applications, and Methodological Consequences
Authors: Longhi Julien
Published: January 2020

In this article, I put forward a linguistic analysis model for analyzing meaning which is based on a methodology that falls within the wider framework of the digital humanities and is equipped with digital tools that meet the theoretical requirements stated. First, I propose a conception of the digital humanities which favors a close relationship between digital technology and the humanities. This general framework will justify the use of a number of models embodied in a dynamic conception of language. This dynamism will then be reflected in the choice of metrics and textual analysis tools (developed in the field of textometry, especially the Iramuteq software). The semantic functioning of linguistic units will be described by using these tools within the identified methodological framework and will help to better understand the processes of variations, whether temporal or generic, within vast discursive corpora. I propose a way of analyzing corpora with specific tools, confronting the humanities with computing/numerical technology.
Fracture Toughness, Breakthrough Morphology, Microstructural Analysis of the T2 Copper-45 Steel Welded Joints
Authors: Ding Hao , Huang Qi , Liu Peng , Bao Yumei , Chai Guozhong
Published: January 2020

The performance and flaws of welded joints are important features that characteristics of the welding material influence. There is significant research activity on the performance and characteristics of welding joint materials. However, the properties of dissimilar welding materials and the cracking problem have not been thoroughly investigated. This investigation focuses on the evaluation and analysis of fracture mechanics, including fracture toughness, microstructural analysis, and crack initiation of T2 copper-45 steel dissimilar welding materials. Standard tensile and three-point bending experiments were performed to calculate the ultimate strength, yield strength, and elastic modulus for fracture toughness. The macro/micro-fracture morphology for tensile fracture and three-point bending fracture were analysed. Based on these investigations, it was concluded that the fracture types were quasi-cleavage and an intergranular brittle fracture mixed model. The deflection of the crack path was discussed and it was determined that the crack was extended along the weld area and tilted towards the T2 copper. Finally, the crack propagation and deflecting direction after the three-point bending test could provide the basis for improvement in the performance of welded joints based on experimental testing parameters and ABAQUS finite element analysis.
Comparison of High-Temperature Compression and Compression-Compression Fatigue Behavior of Magnesium Alloys DieMag422 and AE42
Authors: Teschke Mirko , Koch Alexander , Walther Frank
Published: January 2020

Due to their high strength-to-weight-ratio, magnesium alloys are very attractive for use in automotive engineering. For application at elevated temperatures, the alloys must be creep-resistant. Therefore, the influence of the operating temperature on the material properties under quasistatic and cyclic load has to be understood. A previous study investigated tensile-tensile fatigue behavior of the magnesium alloys DieMag422 and AE42 at room temperature (RT). The aim of this study was the comparison of both alloys regarding compression, tensile, and compression-compression fatigue behavior. The quasistatic behavior was determined by means of tensile and compression tests, and the tensile-compression asymmetry was analyzed. In temperature increase fatigue tests (TIFT) and constant amplitude tests (CAT), the temperature influence on the cyclic creeping (ratcheting) behavior was investigated, and mechanisms-relevant test temperatures were determined. Furthermore, characteristic fracture mechanisms were evaluated with investigations of the microstructure and the fracture surfaces. The initial material was analyzed in computed tomographic scans and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analyses.
Short-Term Traffic Flow Forecasting Based on Data-Driven Model
Authors: Zhang Su-qi , Lin Kuo-Ping
Published: January 2020

Short-term traffic flow forecasting is the technical basis of the intelligent transportation system (ITS). Higher precision, short-term traffic flow forecasting plays an important role in alleviating road congestion and improving traffic management efficiency. In order to improve the accuracy of short-term traffic flow forecasting, an improved bird swarm optimizer (IBSA) is used to optimize the random parameters of the extreme learning machine (ELM). In addition, the improved bird swarm optimization extreme learning machine (IBSAELM) model is established to predict short-term traffic flow. The main researches in this paper are as follows: (1) The bird swarm optimizer (BSA) is prone to fall into the local optimum, so the distribution mechanism of the BSA optimizer is improved. The first five percent of the particles with better fitness values are selected as producers. The last ten percent of the particles with worse fitness values are selected as beggars. (2) The one-day and two-day traffic flows are predicted by the support vector machine (SVM), particle swarm optimization support vector machine (PSOSVM), bird swarm optimization extreme learning machine (BSAELM) and IBSAELM models, respectively. (3) The prediction results of the models are evaluated. For the one-day traffic flow sequence, the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) values of the IBSAELM model are smaller than the SVM, PSOSVM and BSAELM models, respectively. The experimental analysis results show that the IBSAELM model proposed in this study can meet the actual engineering requirements.
Spherical Fuzzy Graphs with Application to Decision-Making
Authors: Akram Muhammad , Saleem Danish , Al-Hawary Talal
Published: January 2020

In a network model, the evaluation information given by decision makers are occasionally of types: yes, abstain, no, and refusal. To deal with such problems, we use mathematical models based on picture fuzzy sets. The spherical fuzzy model is more versatile than the picture fuzzy model as it broadens the space of uncertain and vague information, due to its outstanding feature of vast space of participation of acceptable triplets. Graphs are a mathematical representation of networks. Thus to deal with many real-world phenomena represented by networks, spherical fuzzy graphs can be used to model different practical scenarios in a more flexible manner than picture fuzzy graphs. In this research article, we discuss two operations on spherical fuzzy graphs (SFGs), namely, symmetric difference and rejection; and develop some results regarding their degrees and total degrees. We describe certain concepts of irregular SFGs with several important properties. Further, we present an application of SFGs in decision making.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Marine Drugs in 2019
Authors:   Marine Drugs Editorial Office
Published: January 2020

The editorial team greatly appreciates the reviewers who have dedicated their considerable time and expertise to the journal’s rigorous editorial process over the past 12 months, regardless of whether the papers are finally published or not [...]
Functional and Structural Reliability of Optic Nerve Head Measurements in Healthy Eyes by Means of Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Mastropasqua Rodolfo , D’Aloisio Rossella , Agnifili Luca , Zuppardi Eduardo , Di Marzio Guido , Di Nicola Marta , Porreca Annamaria , Guarini Daniele , Totta Michele , Brescia Lorenza , Di Antonio Luca
Published: January 2020

Background and Objectives: the aim of the study was to evaluate the repeatability and reproducibility of optical microangiography (OMAG)-based optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in the optic nerve head (ONH) and radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) perfusion assessment of healthy eyes. Materials and Methods: in this observational study, a total of 40 healthy subjects underwent ONH evaluation, using an OMAG-based OCTA system at baseline (T0), after 30 min (T1), and after 7 days (T2). The main outcome measures were the vessel density (VD) and flux index (FI) of the RPCs, as well as peri-papillary retinal nerve fibre layer (pRNFL) thickness. The analysis was performed by two observers independently. The coefficient of repeatability (CR), within the subject coefficient of variation (CVw) and intrasession correlation coefficient (ICC), to evaluate intrasession repeatability of measurements was calculated for each observer. Results: the high intrasession and intersession repeatability and reproducibility were assessed in the two observers for all three outcome measures. Of note, the CRs for the first and the second observer were 0.011 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.009–0.014) and 0.016 (95% CI 0.013–0.020) for FI, 0.016 (95% CI 0.013–0.021) and 0.017 (95% CI 0.014–0.021) for VD, and 2.400 (95% CI 1.948–3.092) and 3.732 (95% CI 3.064–4.775) for pRNFL thickness, respectively. The agreement between them was excellent for pRNFL assessment and very good for FI and VD. Conclusion: OCTA has a great potential in the accurate assessment of ONH and peri-papillary microcirculation. It allows for repeated and reproducible measurements without multiple scans-related bias, thus guaranteeing an independent operator analysis with good reproducibility and repeatability.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms of and Psychosocial Changes in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Nursing-Led Cross-Sectional Study of Patients in Clinical Remission
Authors: Mancina Rosellina Margherita , Pagnotta Raffaele , Pagliuso Caterina , Albi Vincenzo , Bruno Daniela , Garieri Pietro , Doldo Patrizia , Spagnuolo Rocco
Published: January 2020

Background and Objectives: Nursing management in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is focused on global patient care. Starting from basic knowledge of diagnostic and therapeutic management, nurses can assess the impact of IBD on patients’ quality of life not only at the physical level, but also at the psychological, social, and emotional levels. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of gastrointestinal symptoms on psychosocial changes in IBD patients in remission through nursing-led Patient-Reported Outcomes. Materials and Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study of 109 IBD patients in clinical and endoscopic remission. Specialist nurses invited patients to complete questionnaires on gastrointestinal symptoms and quality of life through the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). Results: We found that the gastrointestinal symptoms that the patients reported had a significant impact on the analyzed aspects of health. More specifically, belly pain, diarrhea, and bloating were associated with depressive symptoms (p < 0.001), anxiety (p < 0.001), fatigue (p < 0.001), and sleep disturbances (p < 0.001). Moreover, these symptoms also significantly affected patients’ social dimension in terms of satisfaction with participation in social roles (p < 0.001, p < 0.05, and p < 0.001 for belly pain, diarrhea, and bloating, respectively) and physical functions (p < 0.001). The results were virtually the same in a multivariable analysis adjusted by age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and disease duration. Conclusions: Even during remission, gastrointestinal symptoms are the main factors that influence quality of life in IBD patients. This exploratory study highlights the need to adopt validated questionnaires in clinical practice, and demonstrates that PROMIS is a valid, objective, and standardized instrument that can help nursing staff to better define the consequences of the disease in a patient’s daily life.
Safety and Efficacy of a New Synthetic Material Based on Monetite, Silica Gel, PS-Wallastonite, and a Hydroxyapatite Calcium Deficient: A Randomized Comparative Clinic Trial
Authors: Flores Fraile Javier , López-Valverde Nansi , García de Castro Andews Arcadio , Santos Marino Juan , Ramírez Juan , Gómez de Diego Rafael , Montero Javier , López-Valverde Antonio , Blanco Antona Leticia
Published: January 2020

Background and Objectives: Maxillary bone defects related to post-extraction alveolar ridge resorption are usual. These defects may lead to failure in further surgical implant phases given the lack of bone volume to perform the dental implant. The objective of this clinical assay was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of an experimental synthetic bone substitute in the preservation of post-extraction maxillary alveoli. Materials and Methods: 33 voluntary patients who had at least one maxillary premolar tooth that was a candidate for exodontia (n = 39) and subsequent implant rehabilitation participated. The regenerated alveoli were monitored by means of periodic clinical examinations (days 9 ± 1, 21 ± 4, 42 ± 6, and 84 ± 6), measuring the height and width of the alveolar crest (days 0 and 180 ± 5), measurement of radiodensity using tomographic techniques (days 0–5 and 175 ± 5), and histological examination of biopsies collected at 180 ± 5 days. Results: No significant differences were observed during the entire follow-up period between the two groups with respect to the safety variables studied. A variation in width of −0.9 ± 1.3 mm and −0.6 ± 1.5 mm, and a variation in height of −0.1 ± 0.9 mm and −0.3 ± 0.7 mm was observed for experimental material Sil-Oss® and Bio-Oss®, respectively. The radiodensity of the alveoli regenerated with the experimental material was significantly lower than that corresponding to Bio-Oss®. However, the histological study showed greater osteoid matrix and replacement of the material with newformed bone in the implanted beds with the experimental material. Conclusions: Both materials can be used safely and proved equally effective in maintaining alveolar flange dimensions, they are also histologically biocompatible, bioactive and osteoconductive. The experimental material showed the advantage of being resorbable and replaced with newformed bone, in addition to promoting bone regeneration.
Clinicopathological and Prognostic Characteristics of RAD51 in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Lee Jae-Ho , Bae An-Na , Jung Soo-Jung
Published: January 2020

Background and Objectives: RAD51 plays an essential role in DNA repair via homologous recombination. RAD51 facilitates strand transfer between interrupted sequences and their undamaged homologies. Therefore, we studied the RAD51 mRNA expression levels in colorectal cancer (CRC), and evaluated the clinicopathological and prognostic significance of RAD51. Materials and Methods: The RAD51 expression was examined in 48 CRCs and paired adjacent non-tumor tissues. We further evaluated the survival to determine the prognostic value of RAD51 in our CRC and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data. Results: We confirmed that the RAD51 expression in tumor tissues, compared with that of paired non-tumor tissues, was upregulated 2.5-fold. Additionally, the RAD51 expression was significantly associated with the T stage (p = 0.027). According to a higher T stage, the RAD51 expression showed an increasing trend. However, the RAD51 expression did not show a prognostic value statistically. Conclusions: We confirmed that RAD51 was upregulated in tumors and was significantly associated with the T stage. Although there was no statistically significant prognostic value found in our samples and TGCA data, our study will provide new insight for RAD51 in CRC.
Thermal Diffusivity Measurement of Laser-Deposited AISI H13 Tool Steel and Impact on Cooling Performance of Hot Stamping Tools
Authors: Arrizubieta Jon Iñaki , Cortina Magdalena , Mendioroz Arantza , Salazar Agustín , Lamikiz Aitzol
Published: January 2020

Additive manufacturing is a technology that enables the repair and coating of high-added-value parts. In applications such as hot stamping, the thermal behavior of the material is essential to ensure the proper operation of the manufactured part. Therefore, the effective thermal diffusivity of the material needs to be evaluated. In the present work, the thermal diffusivity of laser-deposited AISI H13 is measured experimentally using flash and lock-in thermography. Because of the fast cooling rate that characterizes the additive process and the associated grain refinement, the effective thermal diffusivity of the laser-deposited AISI H13 is approximately 15% lower than the reference value of the cast AISI H13. Despite the directional nature of the process, the laser-deposited material’s thermal diffusivity behavior is found to be isotropic. The paper also presents a case study that illustrates the impact of considering the effective thermal conductivity of the deposited material on the hot stamping process.
Enhancing Segregation Behavior of Impurity by Electromagnetic Stirring in the Solidification Process of Al-30Si Alloy
Authors: Zou Qingchuan , Han Ning , Zhang Zixu , Jie Jinchuan , Xu Fan , An Xizhong
Published: January 2020

Increasing the removal efficiency of impurities during non-equilibrium solidification of hypereutectic Al-Si alloy remains a great challenge for the upgrading of metallurgical silicon (MG-Si) to solar grade Si (SOG-Si). Hence, a manageable method was provided to enhance the segregation behavior of impurities at the interface front of primary Si/Al-Si melt by introducing a rotating magnetic field (RMF) in the present work. Experimental results showed that electromagnetic stirring can improve the removal efficiency of impurities while achieving the separation of primary Si. The apparent segregation coefficients of the major impurities Fe, Ti, Ca, Cu, B and P were reduced to 7.5 × 10−4, 4.6 × 10−3, 7.9 × 10−3, 3.5 × 10−3, 0.1 and 0.16, respectively, under RMF of 25 mT and cooling rate of 2.5 °C/min. We confirmed that improving the transport driving force of impurities in the growth interface front of primary Si is an effective way to improve the segregation behavior of impurities, which would bring us one step closer to exploiting the economic potential of the Al-Si alloy solidification refining.
Relation between Crystal Structure and Transition Temperature of Superconducting Metals and Alloys
Authors: Koblischka Michael Rudolf , Roth Susanne , Koblischka-Veneva Anjela , Karwoth Thomas , Wiederhold Alex , Zeng Xian Lin , Fasoulas Stefanos , Murakami Masato
Published: January 2020

Using the Roeser–Huber equation, which was originally developed for high temperature superconductors (HTSc) (H. Roeser et al., Acta Astronautica 62 (2008) 733), we present a calculation of the superconducting transition temperatures, T c , of some elements with fcc unit cells (Pb, Al), some elements with bcc unit cells (Nb, V), Sn with a tetragonal unit cell and several simple metallic alloys (NbN, NbTi, the A15 compounds and MgB 2 ). All calculations used only the crystallographic information and available data of the electronic configuration of the constituents. The model itself is based on viewing superconductivity as a resonance effect, and the superconducting charge carriers moving through the crystal interact with a typical crystal distance, x. It is found that all calculated T c -data fall within a narrow error margin on a straight line when plotting ( 2 x ) 2 vs. 1 / T c like in the case for HTSc. Furthermore, we discuss the problems when obtaining data for T c from the literature or from experiments, which are needed for comparison with the calculated data. The T c -data presented here agree reasonably well with the literature data.
Leaching of Silver and Gold Contained in a Sedimentary Ore, Using Sodium Thiosulfate; A Preliminary Kinetic Study
Authors: Roldán-Contreras Edmundo , Salinas-Rodríguez Eleazar , Hernández-Ávila Juan , Cerecedo-Sáenz Eduardo , Rodríguez-Lugo Ventura , I. Jeldres Ricardo , Toro Norman
Published: January 2020

Some sedimentary minerals have attractive contents of gold and silver, like a sedimentary exhalative ore available in the eastern of Hidalgo in Mexico. The gold and silver contained represent an interesting opportunity for processing by non-toxic and aggressive leaching reagents like thiosulfate. The preliminary kinetic study indicated that the leaching process was poorly affected by temperature and thiosulfate concentration. The reaction order was −0.61 for Ag, considering a thiosulfate concentration between 200–500 mol·m−3, while, for Au, it was −0.09 for a concentration range between 32–320 mol·m–3. By varying the pH 7–10, it was found that the reaction order was n = 5.03 for Ag, while, for Au, the value was n = 0.94, considering pH 9.5–11. The activation energy obtained during the silver leaching process was 3.15 kJ·mol−1 (298–328 K), which was indicative of a diffusive control of the process. On the other hand, during gold leaching, the activation energy obtained was of 36.44 kJ·mol−1, which was indicative that this process was mixed controlled process, first at low temperatures by diffusive control (298–313 K) and then by chemical control (318–323 K).
Fabrication of Silicon Microfluidic Chips for Acoustic Particle Focusing Using Direct Laser Writing
Authors: Fornell Anna , Söderbäck Per , Liu Zhenhua , De Albuquerque Moreira Milena , Tenje Maria
Published: January 2020

We have developed a fast and simple method for fabricating microfluidic channels in silicon using direct laser writing. The laser microfabrication process was optimised to generate microfluidic channels with vertical walls suitable for acoustic particle focusing by bulk acoustic waves. The width of the acoustic resonance channel was designed to be 380 µm, branching into a trifurcation with 127 µm wide side outlet channels. The optimised settings used to make the microfluidic channels were 50% laser radiation power, 10 kHz pulse frequency and 35 passes. With these settings, six chips could be ablated in 5 h. The microfluidic channels were sealed with a glass wafer using adhesive bonding, diced into individual chips, and a piezoelectric transducer was glued to each chip. With acoustic actuation at 2.03 MHz a half wavelength resonance mode was generated in the microfluidic channel, and polystyrene microparticles (10 µm diameter) were focused along the centre-line of the channel. The presented fabrication process is especially interesting for research purposes as it opens up for rapid prototyping of silicon-glass microfluidic chips for acoustofluidic applications.
Optical Fiber Tweezers: A Versatile Tool for Optical Trapping and Manipulation
Authors: Zhao Xiaoting , Zhao Nan , Shi Yang , Xin Hongbao , Li Baojun
Published: January 2020

Optical trapping is widely used in different areas, ranging from biomedical applications, to physics and material sciences. In recent years, optical fiber tweezers have attracted significant attention in the field of optical trapping due to their flexible manipulation, compact structure, and easy fabrication. As a versatile tool for optical trapping and manipulation, optical fiber tweezers can be used to trap, manipulate, arrange, and assemble tiny objects. Here, we review the optical fiber tweezers-based trapping and manipulation, including dual fiber tweezers for trapping and manipulation, single fiber tweezers for trapping and single cell analysis, optical fiber tweezers for cell assembly, structured optical fiber for enhanced trapping and manipulation, subwavelength optical fiber wire for evanescent fields-based trapping and delivery, and photothermal trapping, assembly, and manipulation.