bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CEPC and FCCee parameters from the viewpoint of the beam–beam and electron cloud effects
Authors: Ohmi Kazuhito
Published: April 2019

The parameters of CEPC and FCC-ee are being fixed. Despite the same circumference and energy of the two colliders, their strategies of the target luminosity are different. The key issues for the target luminosity are the beam–beam and electron cloud effects. We present studies on the beam–beam and electron cloud effects for the two colliders and discuss the difference of the strategies of the two colliders.
Opportunities to obtain polarization at CEPC
Authors: Nikitin Sergei
Published: April 2019

The possibility to obtain the transversely polarized electron/positron beams at the [Formula: see text] GeV CEPC collider basing on the radiative self-polarization of particles in the main rings is under consideration. In addition, we consider one of the options for obtaining longitudinal polarization of electrons at CEPC.
Bottom-quark forward–backward asymmetry, dark matter and the LHC
Authors: Liu Da , Liu Jia , Wagner Carlos E. M. , Wang Xiao-Ping
Published: April 2019

The LEP experiment at CERN provided accurate measurements of the [Formula: see text] neutral gauge boson properties. Although all measurements agree well with the SM predictions, the forward–backward asymmetry of the bottom-quark remains almost [Formula: see text] away from the SM value. We proposed that this anomaly may be explained by the existence of a new [Formula: see text] gauge boson, which couples with opposite charges to the right-handed components of the bottom and charm quarks. Cancellation of gauge anomalies demands the presence of a vector-like singlet charged lepton as well as a neutral Dirac (or Majorana) particle that provides a dark matter candidate. Constraints from precision measurements imply that the mass of the new gauge boson should be around 115 GeV. We discuss the experimental constraints on this scenario, including the existence of a di-jet resonance excess at an invariant mass similar to the mass of this new gauge boson, observed in boosted topologies at the CMS experiment.
A Self-Learning Particle Swarm Optimization for Robust Multi-Echelon Capacitated Location–Allocation–Inventory Problem
Authors: Tirkolaee Erfan Babaee , Mahmoodkhani Javad , Bourani Mehdi Ranjbar , Tavakkoli-Moghaddam Reza
Published: April 2019

This paper addresses a multi-echelon capacitated location–allocation–inventory problem under uncertainty by providing a robust mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model considering production plants at level one, central warehouses at level two, and the retailers at level three in order to design an optimal supply chain network. In this model, the retailer’s demand parameter is uncertain and just its upper and lower bounds within an interval are known. In order to deal with this uncertainty, a robust optimization approach is used. Then, a self-learning particle swarm optimization (SLPSO) algorithm is developed to solve the problem. The results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms the exact method by providing high quality solutions in the reasonable amount of computational runtime.
Medium-chain triglyceride diet stimulates less GIP secretion and suppresses body weight and fat mass gain compared with long-chain triglyceride diet
Authors: Murata Yuki , Harada Norio , Yamane Shunsuke , Iwasaki Kanako , Ikeguchi Eri , Kanemaru Yoshinori , Harada Takanari , Sankoda Akiko , Shimazu-Kuwahara Satoko , Joo Erina , Poudyal Hemant , Inagaki Nobuya
Published: April 2019

Gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) is an incretin secreted from enteroendocrine K cells and potentiates insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells. GIP also enhances long-chain triglyceride (LCT) diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance. Long-term intake of medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) diet is known to induce less body weight and fat mass gain than that of LCT diet. However, the effect of MCT diet feeding on GIP secretion and the effect of GIP on body weight and fat mass under MCT diet-feeding condition are unknown. In this study, we evaluated the effect of single MCT oil administration on GIP secretion and compared the effect of long-term MCT and LCT diet on body weight and fat mass gain in wild-type (WT) and GIP-knockout (GIP KO) mice. Single administration of LCT oil induced GIP secretion but that of MCT oil did not in WT mice. Long-term intake of LCT diet induced GIP hypersecretion and significant body weight and fat mass gain compared with that of control fat (CF) diet in WT mice. In contrast, MCT diet did not induce GIP hypersecretion, and MCT diet-fed mice showed smaller increase in body weight and fat mass gain compared with CF diet-fed mice. In GIP KO mice, body weight and fat mass were markedly attenuated in LCT diet-fed mice but not in MCT diet-fed mice. Our results suggest that long-term intake of MCT diet stimulates less GIP secretion and suppresses body weight and fat mass gain compared with that of LCT diet.
Incremental Bilateral Preference Stable Planning over Event Based Social Networks
Authors: Li Boyang , Cheng Yurong , Wang Guoren , Sun Yongjiao
Published: April 2019

In recent years, Event Based Social Networks (EBSNs) appear in people’s daily life and are becoming increasing popular. In EBSNs, one typical task is to make personalized plans for users. Existing studies only consider the preference of users. They make plans by selecting interesting events for users. However, for organizers of events, they also would like more high‐quality users to participate in their events, which may make the events more exciting. Existing studies are user‐centered and ignore the requirement of organizers. What is more, organizers are allowed to modify their events dynamically before they are held. The platforms should be able to dynamically adjust the schedules of users. Therefore, we identify a new Incremental Bilateral Preference Stable Planning (IBPSP) problem over EBSNs and propose several solutions to deal with different situations. We conduct extensive experiments to verify the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
Astragalus membranaceus and Panax notoginseng, the Novel Renoprotective Compound, Synergistically Protect against Podocyte Injury in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Zhai Ruonan , Jian Guihua , Chen Teng , Xie Ling , Xue Rui , Gao Chongting , Wang Niansong , Xu Youhua , Gui Dingkun
Published: April 2019

This study was aimed at investigating the synergistical protective effects of Astragalus membranaceus (AG) and Panax notoginseng (NG) on podocyte injury in diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in rats by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin at 55 mg/kg. Diabetic rats were then orally administrated with losartan, AG, NG, and AG plus NG (2 : 1) for 12 weeks. Albuminuria, biochemical markers, renal histopathology, and podocyte number per glomerulus were measured. Podocyte apoptosis was determined by triple immunofluorescence labeling including TUNEL assay, WT1, and DAPI. Renal expression of nephrin,α-dystroglycan, Bax, Bcl-xl, and Nox4 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, western blot, and RT-PCR. AG plus NG ameliorated albuminuria, renal histopathology, and podocyte foot process effacement to a greater degree than did AG or NG alone. The number of podocytes per glomerulus, as well as renal expression of nephrin,α-dystroglycan, and Bcl-xl, was decreased, while podocyte apoptosis, as well as renal expression of Bax and Nox4, was increased in diabetic rats. All of these abnormalities were partially restored by AG plus NG to a greater degree than did AG or NG alone. In conclusion, AG and NG synergistically ameliorated diabetic podocyte injury partly through upregulation of nephrin,α-dystroglycan, and Bcl-xl, as well as downregulation of Bax and Nox4. These findings might provide a novel treatment combination for DN.
Phytochemical Profiling and Larval Control of Erythrina variegata Methanol Fraction against Malarial and Filarial Vector
Authors: Baranitharan Mathalaimuthu , Sawicka Barbara , Gokulakrishnan Jayapal
Published: April 2019

Erythrina variegata (E. variegata) bioactive chemical has been the potential to be utilized as a good, eco-friendly approach for the control of mosquito population. In the present investigation, methanol extract using insecticidal compounds isolated against mosquito larvae kill assay was carried out. Secondary metabolism was characterized by thin layer chromatography, column chromatography, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectral, and identification of compound. Mosquito immature third instar larval, Anopheles stephensi, and Culex quinquefasciatus have been exposed to different concentrations of 50-250 µg/ml. Totally, larvae were death rate 98.2% (significant value 0.001b) from methanol extract and it is significant toxicity against larvae of An. stephensi and Cx. quinquefasciatus with LC50/LC99 values were 157.69/339.55 µg/ml and 137.67/297.33 µg/ml, respectively. FT-IR analysis in the functional groups such as alcohol, amines, amides, alkenes, 1⁎ amines, aromatic amines, aliphatic amines, 1⁎,2⁎ amines, and alkyl halides searched the identity of secondary metabolites, which may act as 12-Octadecenoic acid, methyl ester compound and clearly indicates being phytochemical. Chemical constituents of twenty-five compounds were identified in the methanol extract. The major components were 12-Octadecenoic acid and methyl ester (37.31%). Compound molecules consist of carbon 19 atoms (gray), hydrogen 36 atoms (greenish blue), and oxygen 2 atoms (red), indicated by the different colors. The results were obtained suggesting that, in addition to their pharmaceutical and medicine sources, 12-Octadecenoic acid, methyl ester compound can also serve as a natural mosquito control.
Repeated Working Memory Training Improves Task Performance and Neural Efficiency in Multiple Sclerosis Patients and Healthy Controls
Authors: Aguirre Naiara , Cruz-Gómez Álvaro Javier , Miró-Padilla Anna , Bueichekú Elisenda , Broseta Torres Ricardo , Ávila César , Sanchis-Segura Carla , Forn Cristina
Published: April 2019

Background/Objective. To explore the effectiveness of a specific working memory (WM) training program in MS patients and healthy controls (HC). Method. 29 MS patients and 29 matched HC were enrolled in the study. MS and HC were randomly split into two groups: nontraining groups (15HC/14 MS) and training groups (14 HC/15 MS). Training groups underwent adaptive n-back training (60 min/day; 4 days). Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to monitor brain activity during n-back performance (conditions: 0-back, 2-back, and 3-back) at 3 time points: (1) baseline, (2) post-training (+7days), and (3) follow-up (+35days). Results. In post-training and follow-up fMRI sessions, trained groups (HC and MS patients) exhibited significant reaction time (RT) reductions and increases in Correct Responses (CRs) during 2-back and 3-back performance. This improvement of task performance was accompanied by a decrease in brain activation in the WM frontoparietal network. The two effects were significantly correlated. Conclusions. After WM training, both cognitively preserved MS patients and HC participants showed task performance improvement made possible by neuroplastic processes that enhanced neural efficiency.
Function of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Monocrotaline-Induced Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension through miR-191 via Regulation of BMPR2
Authors: Zhang Caixin , Wang Pengbo , Mohammed Anaz , Zhou Zhewen , Zhang Shuwen , Ni Songshi , Tang Zhiyuan
Published: April 2019

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a serious condition. However, prevailing therapeutic strategies are not effective enough to treat PAH. Therefore, finding an effective therapy is clearly warranted. Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) and ASCs-derived exosomes (ASCs-Exos) exert protective effects in PAH, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Using a coculture of ASCs and monocrotaline pyrrole (MCTP)-treated human pulmonary artery endothelial cells (HPAECs), we demonstrated that ASCs increased cell proliferation in MCTP-treated HPAECs. Results showed that ASCs-Exos improved proliferation of both control HPAECs and MCTP-treated HPAECs. In addition, by transfecting ASCs with antagomir we observed that low exosomal miR-191 expression inhibited HPAECs proliferation whereas the agomir improved. Similar results were observed in vivo using a monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PAH rat model following ASCs transplantation. And ASCs transplantation attenuated MCT-induced PAH albeit less than the antagomir treated group. Finally, we found that miR-191 repressed the expression of bone morphogenetic protein receptor 2 (BMPR2) in HPAECs and PAH rats. Thus, we conjectured that miR-191, in ASCs and ASCs-Exos, plays an important role in PAH via regulation of BMPR2. These findings are expected to contribute to promising therapeutic strategies for treating PAH in the future.
Effect of Baoshenfang Formula on Podocyte Injury via Inhibiting the NOX-4/ROS/p38 Pathway in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Cui Fang-qiang , Tang Long , Gao Yan-bin , Wang Yue-fen , Meng Yuan , Shen Cun , Shen Zi-long , Liu Zhi-qiang , Zhao Wen-jing , Liu Wei Jing
Published: April 2019

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a serious kidney-related complication of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The Chinese herbal formula Baoshenfang (BSF) shows therapeutic potential in attenuating oxidative stress and apoptosis in podocytes in DN. This study evaluated the effects of BSF on podocyte injury in vivo and in vitro and explored the possible involvement of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase-4/reactive oxygen species- (NOX-4/ROS-) activated p38 pathway. In the identified compounds by mass spectrometry, some active constituents of BSF were reported to show antioxidative activity. In addition, we found that BSF significantly decreased 24-hour urinary protein, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen in DN patients. BSF treatment increased the nephrin expression, alleviated oxidative cellular damage, and inhibited Bcl-2 family-associated podocyte apoptosis in high-glucose cultured podocytes and/or in diabetic rats. More importantly, BSF also decreased phospho-p38, while high glucose-mediated apoptosis was blocked by p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibitor in cultured podocytes, indicating that the antiapoptotic effect of BSF is p38 pathway-dependent. High glucose-induced upexpression of NOX-4 was normalized by BSF, and NOX-4 siRNAs inhibited the phosphorylation of p38, suggesting that the activated p38 pathway is at least partially mediated by NOX-4. In conclusion, BSF can decrease proteinuria and protect podocytes from injury in DN, in part through inhibiting the NOX-4/ROS/p38 pathway.
A Patient of Using Presepsin to Diagnose Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome during Anticancer Drug Treatment
Authors: Takahashi Gaku
Published: April 2019

Background. Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) is a rapidly progressive infection, with potentially rapid patient deterioration in a very short period. We experienced a rare case of STSS during anticancer chemotherapy, and we continuously measured presepsin (P-SEP) and evaluated its usefulness. Case Presentation. A 60-year-old woman with pulmonary metastasis from cervical cancer began anticancer chemotherapy. A fever of >40°C and right lower leg swelling developed on day 3. Symptoms worsened despite cefmetazole treatment (1.0 g/day). Blood culture was performed without suspecting STSS. On day 5, symptoms worsened and acute disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores increased. C-reactive protein (CRP) increased from 28.8 mg/dl to 35.5 mg/dl and P-SEP also increased from 1,635 to 2,350 pg/mL. STSS was suspected due to the rapid progression of brown discoloration of the entire right lower leg. Ceftriaxone 2 g/day and clindamycin 1,200 mg/day were begun. On the evening of day 5, blood culture revealed rapidly progressive group A streptococci. After that, symptoms improved rapidly with treatment, and SOFA and DIC scores also decreased. While CRP remained at about 0.5 mg/dl, P-SEP remained slightly elevated at about 400 pg/mL. A residual infection focus was suspected. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed a capsule-enclosed abscess in the right lower leg soleus muscle on day 32. Debridement was performed and antibiotics were continued until P-SEP was 88 pg/mL. CT confirmed the disappearance of the abscess. Conclusion. Prompt diagnosis by blood culture and a sufficiently early, appropriate change in antibiotic therapy led to successful recovery from STSS during anticancer chemotherapy without lower limb amputation. P-SEP was useful in assessment of the residual infection focus and suspending treatments.
Heterotopic Ossification: A Challenging Complication of Total Hip Arthroplasty: Risk Factors, Diagnosis, Prophylaxis, and Treatment
Authors: Łęgosz Paweł , Otworowski Maciej , Sibilska Aleksandra , Starszak Krzysztof , Kotrych Daniel , Kwapisz Adam , Synder Marek
Published: April 2019

Background. This review is intended to summarize the risk factors, classification, diagnosis, and treatment of heterotopic ossification (HO) of previously published studies. Results. Heterotopic ossification is a common complication of total hip arthroplasty. Its prevalence is not the same in all of the patient groups. Frequency of HO varies from 15 to 90%. Hip ankylosis, male gender, and previous history of HO are said to be risk factors with a significant level. Diagnosis is based on a single AP radiograph: the Brooker classification that divides HO into four grades is the most commonly used. The confirmation test that can be used is a bone scan. A great amount of bone metabolic turnover markers have been tested, but none of them seems to be relevant in case of prevention or diagnosis of HO. The most effective prophylactic treatment is radiotherapy or administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Over the years a lot of different RT protocols have been tested. Nowadays the most often used regimen is 7 Gy given postoperatively in a single dose. The most commonly prescribed drug in prophylaxis of HO is indomethacin. Also, the efficacy of ibuprofen and diclofenac was proven. Recently researchers focused on selective COX-2 inhibitors. They appear to be as effective as nonselective NSAIDs having less side effects. The one and only treatment of HO is a revision arthroplasty.
Glutamine Improves Oxidative Stress through the Wnt3a/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in Alzheimer’s Disease In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Wang Yuan , Wang Qiang , Li Jie , Lu Gang , Liu Zhibin
Published: April 2019

Background/Aims. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease, and all researchers working in this field agree that oxidative stress is intimately associated with Alzheimer disease. In this study, we hypothesized that glutamine (Gln) offers protection against oxidative stress injury in SAMP8 mice as well as the underlying mechanism. Methods. The SAMP8 mice received glutamine intragastrically for 8 consecutive weeks to evaluate the protective effect of glutamine on oxidative stress in AD mice involving Wnt3a/β-catenin signaling pathway. In addition, rat pheochromocytoma tumor cell line PC12 was pretreated with 32 μM glutamine for 2 h followed by 24 h incubation with 40 μM Aβ25-35 to obtain in vitro data. Results. In vivo the administration of glutamine was found to ameliorate behavioral deficits and neuron damage, increase superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-XP) activity, reduce the malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and activate the Wnt3a/β-catenin signaling pathway in SAMP8 mice. In vitro glutamine treatment decreased the toxicity of Aβ25-35 on PC12 cells and prevented apoptosis. Additionally, glutamine treatment increased SOD and GSH-XP activity and decreased MDA content and increased Wnt3a and β-catenin protein levels. Interestingly, the DKK-1 (Wnt3a/β-catenin pathway inhibitor) decreased the antioxidant capacity of glutamine in Aβ25-35-treated PC12 cells. Conclusion. This study suggests that glutamine could protect against oxidative stress-induced injury in AD mice via the Wnt3a/β-catenin signaling pathway.
Diverse Pharmacological Activities and Potential Medicinal Benefits of Geniposide
Authors: Zhou Yan-Xi , Zhang Ruo-Qi , Rahman Khalid , Cao Zhi-Xing , Zhang Hong , Peng Cheng
Published: April 2019

Geniposide is a well-known iridoid glycoside compound and is an essential component of a wide variety of traditional phytomedicines, for example, Gardenia jasminoides Elli (Zhizi in Chinese), Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. (Duzhong in Chinese), Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch. (Dihuang in Chinese), and Achyranthes bidentata Bl. (Niuxi in Chinese). It is also the main bioactive component of Gardeniae Fructus, the dried ripe fruit of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis. Increasing pharmacological evidence supports multiple medicinal properties of geniposide including neuroprotective, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antidepressant-like, cardioprotective, antioxidant, immune-regulatory, antithrombotic, and antitumoral effects. It has been proposed that geniposide may be a drug or lead compound for the prophylaxis and treatment of several diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes and diabetic complications, ischemia and reperfusion injury, and hepatic disorders. The aim of the present review is to give a comprehensive summary and analysis of the pharmacological properties of geniposide, supporting its use as a medicinal agent.
Cervical Spinal Osteomyelitis with Epidural Abscess following an Escherichia coli Urinary Tract Infection in an Immunocompetent Host
Authors: Moustafa Abdelmoniem , Kheireldine Rowida , Khan Zubair , Alim Hussam , Khan Mohammad Saud , Alsamman Mohd Amer , Youssef Eslam
Published: April 2019

Spinal epidural abscess (SEA) is uncommon with an incidence reported as 0.33–1.96 abscesses per 10,000 hospital admissions per year. Two-thirds of the cases were caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a less common cause of SEA, and it is usually after urinary tract infection in patient with preexisting risk factor. A 69-year-old male with a past medical history significant for prostatitis was admitted with fever, altered mental status, neck pain, progressive lower extremities weakness, and frequent falls for 7 days. Both blood and urine cultures grew E. coli. Lumbar puncture showed 94 RBCs, 24 WBCs (16% neutrophils and 46% lymphocytes), and elevated protein level at 1140 mg/dl with no bacteria. C-spine MRI showed epidural abscess along the anterior and right lateral margin of the cord causing cord compression from C5 through C7, anterior perivertebral abscess from C4 through T2, marrow edema involving C6 and C7 vertebral bodies with increased signal in the intervertebral disc space at C6-C7, and consistent with osteomyelitis and discitis. Anterior cervical decompression with evacuation of anterior epidural abscess with fusion was done. The culture from the epidural abscess grew E coli. A diagnosis of SEA should be considered in patients presenting with progressive weakness and neurological deficits following UTI and is to be confirmed by MRI. E. coli could be the culprit for epidural abscess and spine osteomyelitis even in immunocompetent patients.
Serum Amyloid A Protein as a Potential Biomarker for Severity and Acute Outcome in Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Wicker Evan , Benton Leah , George Kershina , Furlow William , Villapol Sonia
Published: April 2019

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) causes a wide variety of neuroinflammatory events. These neuroinflammatory events depend, to a greater extent, on the severity of the damage. Our previous studies have shown that the liver produces serum amyloid A (SAA) at high levels in the initial hours after controlled cortical impact (CCI) injury in mice. Clinical studies have reported detectable SAA in the plasma of brain injury patients, but it is not clear if SAA levels depend on TBI severity. To evaluate this question, we performed a mild to severe CCI injury in wild-type mice. We collected blood samples and brains at 1, 3, and 7 days after injury for protein detection by western blotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, or immunohistochemical analysis. Our results showed that severe CCI injury compared to mild CCI injury or sham mice caused an increased neuronal death, larger lesion volume, increased microglia/macrophage density, and augmented neutrophil infiltration. Furthermore, we found that the serum levels of SAA protein ascended in the blood in correlation with high neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative responses. Altogether, these results suggest that serum SAA may be a novel neuroinflammation-based, and severity-dependent, biomarker for acute TBI.
Left Atrial Ball-Shaped Thrombus with Concomitant Biatrial Appendage Thrombi in a Patient with Prior Mitral Valve Replacement
Authors: Akamatsu Kanako , Ito Takahide , Sakane Kazushi , Kanzaki Yumiko , Sohmiya Koichi , Hoshiga Masaaki
Published: April 2019

We reported a 67-year-old woman in whom large atrial thrombi were found by chance during discontinuation of therapeutic anticoagulation. The patient, with a history of mitral valve replacement surgery, had stopped anticoagulation for months because of intractable gastrointestinal bleeding, during which she was found to have 3 large thrombi in the atria on transesophageal echocardiography: left atrial free-floating ball-shaped thrombus, left atrial appendage thrombus, and right atrial appendage thrombus. One month following diagnosis, she still had the free-floating thrombus despite adequate anticoagulation. Free-floating ball-shaped thrombus is a rare finding observed on echocardiography in patients with mitral valve disease and an even rarer finding in case of appendage thrombi coexisting.
Vibration and Sound Transmission Performance of Sandwich Panels with Uniform and Gradient Auxetic Double Arrowhead Honeycomb Cores
Authors: Li Qing , Yang Deqing
Published: April 2019

Auxetic mechanical metamaterials that exhibit a negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) can be artificially designed to exhibit a unique range of physical and mechanical properties. Novel sandwich structures composed of uniform and gradient auxetic double arrowhead honeycomb (DAH) cores were investigated in terms of their vibration and sound transmission performance stimulated by nonhomogeneous metamaterials with nonperiodic cell geometries. The spectral element method (SEM) was employed to accurately evaluate the natural frequencies and dynamic responses with a limited number of elements at high frequencies. The results indicated that the vibrating mode shapes and deformations of the DAH sandwich models were strongly affected by the patterned gradient metamaterials. In addition, the sound insulation performance of the considered DAH sandwich models was investigated regarding the sound transmission loss (STL) from 1 Hz to 1500 Hz under a normal incident planar wave, and this performance was compared with that for hexagonal honeycomb sandwich panels. A programmable structural‐acoustic optimization was implemented to maximize the STL while maintaining a constant weight and high strength. The results showed that the uniform DAH sandwich models with larger NPRs generally exhibited better vibration and acoustic attenuation behaviors and that the optimized gradient increasing NPR models yielded higher STL values than the optimized gradient decreasing NPR models for two specified frequency cases, with improvements of 6.52 dB and 2.52 dB and a higher bending stiffness but a lower overall STL. Thus, sandwich panels consisting of auxetic DAHs can achieve desirable vibroacoustic performance with a higher bending stiffness than conventional hexagonal honeycomb sandwich structures, and the design of gradient DAHs can be extended to obtain optimized vibration and noise‐control capabilities.
Surgical Repair of Acetabular Fracture Using Unidirectional Porous β-Tricalcium Phosphate
Authors: Kumagai Hiroshi , Iwasashi Masashi , Funayama Toru , Nakamura Satoshi , Noguchi Hiroshi , Koda Masao , Yamazaki Masashi
Published: April 2019

We report a case of an acetabular fracture treated using a unidirectional porous β-tricalcium phosphate artificial bone (Affinos®) to surgically repair bone defects. An 82-year-old man sustained an acetabular fracture on the left side and presented with shock on arrival along with impaired vital signs and systolic blood pressure. Upon stabilization, we performed an open reduction and internal fixation. However, there were significant bone defects, which were then fixed using Affinos® (both blocks and granules), an artificial β-tricalcium phosphate bone with a porosity of 57% (pore size: 25–300 μm), characterized by a novel unidirectional porous structure. By 18 months postoperatively, the patient was able to perform stair climbing and absorption and bone fusion around the artificial bone were observed. Affinos® has a frost-like structure, which endows it with good tissue-invasive properties because of the capillary effect. Moreover, it has excellent osteoconduction capability. In this case, both Affinos® blocks and granules showed good affinity, absorption, and bone substitution. Further prospective studies are required to confirm our findings.
Development of Frequency Modulated Array Antennas for Millimeter-Wave Communications
Authors: Nusenu Shaddrack Yaw
Published: April 2019

With the massive growth of wireless data in mobile broadband communications, millimeter-wave (mm-wave) communication is an alternative enabling technique for fifth generation (5G) wireless communication systems. More importantly, mm-wave offers large frequency spectrum bands ranging from 30GHz to 300GHz that can be utilized to provide very high capacity (i.e., multigigabits per-second data rates). Moreover, because of the small wavelength at mm-wave frequencies, we can exploit large antenna elements in a small physical area, meaning beamforming schemes are feasible. Nevertheless, high directional antennas should be used due to overcoming the severe path loss and absorption in mm-wave frequencies. Further, the antennas should be steerable in angle and range directions to support point-to-point (multipoint) communications. So far, mm-wave communication has utilized phased-array antennas arrangement which is solely angle dependent. This review paper presents recent array technology, namely, frequency modulated frequency diverse array (FDA) for mm-wave communication applications with an emphasis on beamforming. In FDA, small frequency increment is added across the elements. In doing so, an array beam is generated which is angle-range-time dependent without the need of phase shifters. This feature has several promising potentials in mm-wave communications. In this review, the object is to bring to the fore this advance FDA technology to mm-wave communications community to call for more investigations. We review FDA research progress up to date and highlight the potential applications in mm-wave communications.
Structural Elucidation and Immune-Enhancing Effects of Novel Polysaccharide from Grifola frondosa
Authors: Seo Yu-Ri , Patel Dinesh K. , Shin Woo-Chul , Sim Wan-Sup , Lee Ok-Hwan , Lim Ki-Taek
Published: April 2019

Beta-glucan (β-glucan) is a macromolecule structure where glucose unit has bonded through β-glycosidic bond at 1 and 3 positions. It is well known as a natural immunomodulator without exhibiting any side effects via enhancing immunity. Mushroom contains a large amount of β-glucan and it has anticancerous and antioxidant efficacy. Structure and physical properties of β-glucan are highly influenced by the types of mushroom. In particular, Grifola frondosa has β-1, 3 and β-1, 6 bonds in their structure. It has been noted that β-glucan content also depends upon the size of mushroom particles. The exact content of β-glucan and their immunological activity by a particle size of G. frondosa have yet to be fully elucidated. Herein, β-glucan contents were analyzed according to the particle size of leaf mushroom followed by cell activation and immunoactivity analysis. The highest β-glucan content was observed at a particle size of 20-30 μm (27.65 ± 0.30 w/w). All samples showed ~ 103% cell activation compared to the control and greater cell activity was observed at higher concentration. The significant increase in cytokines secretion was observed in the presence of 20-30 μm particle size of G. frondosa compared to the control. This study suggested that 20-30 μm size is the suitable size of G. frondosa that can be used as a health supplement and food additive to act as an immune booster, hypotensive agent, and hypoglycemic agent.
Bloodletting Therapy for Patients with Chronic Urticaria: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yao Qin , Zhang Xinyue , Mu Yunnong , Liu Yajie , An Yu , Zhao Baixiao
Published: April 2019

Background. Many trials have reported that bloodletting therapy is effective when treating chronic urticaria. There are currently no systematic reviews of bloodletting therapy for chronic urticaria. Objective. The aim of this review is to assess the effectiveness and safety of bloodletting therapy for chronic urticaria. Methods. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials were performed. Disease activity control was assessed as the primary outcome. Response rate, recurrence rate, and adverse events were assessed as secondary outcomes. Results. Seven studies with 512 participants were included. One trial showed a significant difference between bloodletting therapy plus medicine and medicine alone in disease activity control (MD 0.67; 95% CI 0.03 to 1.31; p=0.04). Six trials (372 participants) showed a significant difference between bloodletting therapy and pharmacological medication in response rate (RR 1.10; 95% CI 0.97-1.26; P =0.15). Two studies (170 participants) showed a significant difference between bloodletting therapy plus pharmacological medication and pharmacological medication in response rate (RR 1.34; 95% CI 1.10-1.63; p=0.003). Two studies (126 participants) reported a statistically significant difference between bloodletting therapy and pharmacological medication in recurrence rate. No serious adverse events related to bloodletting therapy were reported. Conclusions. Bloodletting therapy might be an effective and safe treatment for chronic urticaria, but the evidence is scarce. More high quality trials are needed in the future.
Case Definitions of Clinical Malaria in Children from Three Health Districts in the North Region of Cameroon
Authors: Tabue Raymond N. , Njeambosay Boris A. , Zeukeng Francis , Esemu Livo F. , Fodjo Barrière A. Y. , Nyonglema Philomina , Awono-Ambene Parfait , Etang Josiane , Fondjo Etienne , Achu Dorothy , Leke Rose G. F. , Kouambeng Célestin , Knox Tessa B. , Mnzava Abraham P. , Bigoga Jude D.
Published: April 2019

Malaria endemicity in Cameroon greatly varies according to ecological environment. In such conditions, parasitaemia, which is associated with fever, may not always suffice to define an episode of clinical malaria. The evaluation of malaria control intervention strategies mostly consists of identifying cases of clinical malaria and is crucial to promote better diagnosis for accurate measurement of the impact of the intervention. We sought out to define and quantify clinical malaria cases in children from three health districts in the Northern region of Cameroon. A cohort study of 6,195 children aged between 6 and 120 months was carried out during the raining season (July to October) between 2013 and 2014. Differential diagnosis of clinical malaria was performed using the parasite density and axillary temperature. At recruitment, patients with malaria-related symptoms (fever [axillary temperature ≥ 37.5°C], chills, severe malaise, headache, or vomiting) and a malaria positive blood smear were classified under clinical malaria group. The malaria attributable fraction was calculated using logistic regression models. Plasmodium falciparum was responsible for over 91% of infections. Children from Pitoa health district had the highest number of asymptomatic infections (45.60%) compared to those from Garoua and Mayo Oulo. The most suitable cut-off for the association between parasite densities and fever was found among children less than 24 months. Overall, parasite densities that ranged above 3,200 parasites per μl of blood could be used to define the malaria attributable fever cases. In groups of children aged between 24 and 59 months and 60 and 94 months, the optimum cut-off parasite density was 6,400 parasites per μl of blood, while children aged between 95 and 120 months had a cut-off of 800 parasites per μl of blood. In the same ecoepidemiological zone, clinical malaria case definitions are influenced by age and location (health district) and this could be considered when evaluating malaria intervention strategies in endemic areas.
Developments in the Space of New MAPK Pathway Inhibitors for BRAF-Mutant Melanoma
Authors: Cohen Justine V. , Sullivan Ryan J.
Published: April 2019

The characterization of the MAPK signaling pathway has led to the development of multiple promising targeted therapy options for a subset of patients with metastatic melanoma. The combination of BRAF and MEK inhibitors represents an FDA-approved standard of care in patients with metastatic and resected BRAF-mutated melanoma. There are currently three FDA-approved BRAF/MEK inhibitor combinations for the treatment of patients with BRAF-mutated melanoma. Although there have been significant advances in the field of targeted therapy, further exploration of new targets within the MAPK pathway will strengthen therapeutic options for patients. Important clinical and translational research focuses on mechanisms of resistance, predictive biomarkers, and challenging patient populations such as those with brain metastases or resected melanoma.
Cellular Plasticity in Cancer
Authors: Yuan Salina , Norgard Robert J. , Stanger Ben Z.
Published: April 2019

During cancer progression, tumor cells undergo molecular and phenotypic changes collectively referred to as cellular plasticity. Such changes result from microenvironmental cues, stochastic genetic and epigenetic alterations, and/or treatment-imposed selective pressures, thereby contributing to tumor heterogeneity and therapy resistance. Epithelial–mesenchymal plasticity is the best-known case of tumor cell plasticity, but recent work has uncovered other examples, often with functional consequences. In this review, we explore the nature and role(s) of these diverse cellular plasticity programs in premalignant progression, tumor evolution, and adaptation to therapy and consider ways in which targeting plasticity could lead to novel anticancer treatments.

Significance:

Changes in cell identity, or cellular plasticity, are common at different stages of tumor progression, and it has become clear that cellular plasticity can be a potent mediator of tumor progression and chemoresistance. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the various forms of cell plasticity may deliver new strategies for targeting the most lethal aspects of cancer: metastasis and resistance to therapy.
Characteristics and Findings of Childhood Urinary Tract Infection in the Last Decade
Authors: Sitthisarunkul Noppasorn , Uthairat Monthida , Dissaneewate Pornsak , McNeil Edward , Vachvanichsanong Prayong
Published: April 2019

Background: The strong association between kidney and urinary tract anomalies and childhood urinary tract infection (UTI) often leads to imaging tests being performed. ­Objective: To describe the epidemiology, characteristics, and imaging findings in Thai children with UTI and compare results between boys and girls. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of children with UTI aged < 15 years. Demographic characteristics and findings of investigations are presented. Results: One hundred seventy-eight boys and 170 girls with 432 UTI episodes were identified. The median (interquartile range) age at presentation was 1.4 (0.6–3.4) years, 1.0 for boys and 2.1 for girls (p < 0.001). Renal ultrasound, voiding cystourethrogram and 99mTc dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) renal scans were performed in 273, 223 and 113 children, respectively. Overall, 283 children (81.3%) had at least one imaging study done and anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract were detected in 158 (45.4%). Primary vesicoureteral reflux was detected in 73 (32.7%) children. The remaining abnormalities were hydronephrosis (n = 54). DMSA scans detected 54 children with dysplastic or scarred kidneys. Conclusions: First UTI in a group of Thai children occurred in approximately equal proportion in boys and girls but boys were younger at diagnosis. Kidney and urinary tract anomalies were detected in half of the children.
Obliterierende subkutane Arteriolosklerose nicht spezifisch für ein Ulcus hypertonicum Martorell
Authors: Stücker Markus
Published: April 2019

Background: The histological characteristic of hypertensive leg ulcers (HLU) is the presence of ‘arteriolosclerosis.' The pertinence of performing a skin biopsy to diagnose HLU is questionable, as cutaneous arteriolosclerosis may be related to patient comorbidities. The objective here was to evaluate the frequency of arteriolosclerosis in skin leg biopsies performed in patients without ulcer and in control patients with HLU. Methods: We performed a retrospective study between January 2013 and July 2014. Patients were included if they had undergone a deep skin biopsy on the lower limbs, in the absence of any leg ulcer. Controls were patients with typical HLU. Results: Fifty-eight patients and 6 controls were included. Hypertension was present in 25 patients (43%). Arteriolosclerosis, defined as fibrous endarteritis, was present in 35 out of 58 patients (60%) and in all of the controls. No hyalinosis or hyperplastic proliferative arteriolosclerosis was observed in the patients or controls. Only age was an independent factor associated with the presence of cutaneous arteriolosclerosis (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Cutaneous arteriolosclerosis is significantly and independently associated with age. Thus, skin biopsy seems not to be necessary for the diagnosis of HLU but only for a differential diagnosis.
Pilot Experience with ABO-Incompatible Kidney Transplantation as a Second Transplant
Authors: Uchida Junji , Kosoku Akihiro , Kabei Kazuya , Nishide Shunji , Shimada Hisao , Iwai Tomoaki , Kuwabara Nobuyuki , Naganuma Toshihide , Maeda Keiko , Yoshikawa Yuki , Kumada Norihiko , Takemoto Yoshiaki , Nakatani Tatsuya
Published: April 2019

Background: Despite advances in immunosuppressant medications, improvement in long-term survival for kidney transplant recipients has been more difficult to achieve. In fact, the number of patients with failing grafts who must either return to dialysis or undergo a second transplant is increasing. Second transplantation is associated with reduced mortality rates compared to remaining on dialysis after an initial graft loss. Nowadays, excellent ABO-incompatible kidney transplant outcomes have been achieved. However, there have been no reports on ABO-incompatible kidney transplantation as a second transplant. Patients and Methods: Three patients who received their graft from an ABO-incompatible living donor at our institution as a second transplant were enrolled in this study. We focused on immunosuppressive therapy for second ABO-incompatible kidney transplantation, donor-specific antibody status before the second transplant, patient and graft survivals, and complications. Results: All 3 patients successfully underwent ABO-incompatible kidney transplantation as a second transplant with a follow-up period of 141, 39, and 24 months. Patient and graft survival rates were 100%. Conclusions: ABO-incompatible kidney transplantation may be an acceptable treatment for patients who need a second renal replacement therapy after their initial graft failure.
Paracentric Inversions Differentiate the Conservative Karyotypes in Two Centropomus Species (Teleostei: Centropomidae)
Authors: Borges Amanda T. , Cioffi Marcelo B. , Bertollo Luiz A.C. , Soares Rodrigo X. , Costa Gideão W.W.F. , Molina Wagner F.
Published: April 2019

Centropomus is the sole genus of the Centropomidae family (Teleostei), comprising 12 species widely distributed throughout the Western Atlantic and Eastern Pacific, with 6 of them occurring in the Western Atlantic in extensive sympatry. Their life history and phylogenetic relationships are well characterized; however, aspects of chromosomal evolution are still unknown. Here, cytogenetic analyses of 2 Centropomus species of great economic value (C. undecimalis and C. mexicanus) were performed using conventional (Giemsa, Ag-NOR, and fluorochrome staining, C- and replication banding) and molecular (chromosomal mapping of 18S and 5S rDNA, H2A-H2B and H3 hisDNA, and (TTAGGG)n repeats) approaches. The karyotypes of both species were composed of 48 solely acrocentric chromosomes (2n = 48; FN = 48), but the single ribosomal site was located in varying positions in the long arms of the second largest chromosome pair. Replication bands were generally similar, although conspicuous differences were observed in some chromosome regions. In both species, the histone H3 genes were located on 3 apparently homeologous chromosome pairs, but the exact position of these clusters differed slightly. Interspecific hisDNA and rDNA site displacements can indicate the occurrence of multiple paracentric inversions during the evolutionary diversification of the Centropomus genomes. Although the karyotypes remained similar in both species, our data demonstrate an unsuspected microstructural reorganization between them, driven most likely by a series of paracentric inversions.
Stable Ozonides with Vitamin E Acetate versus Corticosteroid in the Treatment of Lichen Sclerosus in Foreskin: Evaluation of Effects on Inflammation
Authors: Russo Tiziana , Currò Monica , Ferlazzo Nadia , Caccamo Daniela , Perrone Patrizia , Arena Salvatore , Antonelli Enrica , Antonuccio Pietro , Ientile Riccardo , Romeo Carmelo , Impellizzeri Pietro
Published: April 2019

Background: Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a disease of the skin of unclear etiology that can occur in the foreskin. Topical therapy with corticosteroids is recommended, but they can have side effects. Objectives: We aimed to compare the effects of ozonides with vitamin E acetate (OZOILE) versus topical corticosteroid in children undergoing circumcision. Method: Twenty children undergoing circumcision were treated before surgery: 10 children with OZOILE cream and 10 with 0.1% mometasone furoate once a day for 7 days. Ten age-matched patients with LS of the foreskin without any treatment were recruited as controls. Transcript levels of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines and e-cadherin were evaluated in removed foreskins by qRT-PCR. Results: OZOILE and steroid topical treatment produced a similar reduction of TNF-α and IL-1β mRNA levels in foreskins from patients with LS when compared to untreated patients (p < 0.001). OZOILE and steroid treatment caused an increase in the transcript levels of IL-13 and e-cadherin in the foreskin of patients affected by LS in comparison to untreated foreskin (p < 0.001). Conclusions: On the basis of our biochemical data, a randomized clinical trial might be useful to verify the actual clinical effect of OZOILE as alternative treatment to corticosteroids in children affected by LS of the foreskin.