bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Choosing and Doing Wisely: Triage Level I Resuscitation a Possible New Field for Starting Palliative Care and Avoiding Low-Value Care-A nationwide matched-pair retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lin Chih-Yuan , Lee Yue-Chune
Published: March 2020

Background The association between palliative care and life-sustaining treatment for patients following emergency department (ED) resuscitation is unclear.Objective To analyze ED triage level I resuscitation patients the use of palliative care and its life-sustaining treatment usage based on a national representative sample of a population of about 2.3 million.Methods A matched-pair retrospective cohort study was conducted to examine the association between palliative care and the outcome variables using multivariate logistic regression and Kaplan–Meier survival analyses.Participants: Between 2009 and 2013, 336 ED triage level I resuscitation patients received palliative care services (palliative care group) in a universal health insurance scheme. Retrospective cohort control selection was matched using a 1:4 ratio for confounding factors with those who received usual care (usual care group).Main outcomes Outcome variables include numbers of emergency and outpatient department visits, hospitalization days, total medical expenses, life-sustaining treatment utilization, and days of survival after the ED triage level I resuscitation index date.Results The mean survival post-ED triage level I resuscitation days was less than one year, that, fit the end-of-life definition. Palliative care services provided to 15% of ED triage level I resuscitation patients. The palliative care group was more consistently and significantly associated with less life-sustaining treatment use than the usual care group.Conclusion Palliative care decisions correlate with the reduction of life-sustaining treatments for patients receiving triage level I resuscitation. Furthermore, triage level Ⅰ resuscitation status may present a possible new field for starting palliative care intervention and reducing low-value care.
Long noncoding RNA LINC01615 promotes keloid development via sponging miR-590-3p to regulate FGF2 expression
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Xu Yingying , Yamaguchi Kenji , Hu Jinping , Zhang Lianbo , Wang Jianfeng , Tian Jifeng , Chen Wanying
Published: March 2020

Background A keloid is a benign human skin tumor that resulted by fibrous overgrowths during wound healing. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are indicated to involve in the development of keloid. However, the role of lncRNA LINC01615 in regulating keloid development and the underlying mechanism are still unknown. Methods The expression levels of LINC01615, miR-590-3p and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) mRNA were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The protein levels of apoptosis-related proteins, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagens and FGF2 were measured by western blot. The effect of LINC01615 on keloid development was assessed by cell proliferation, apoptosis and collagen deposition of keloid fibroblasts which were determined by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), flow cytometry assay and the protein levels of collagens, respectively. The relationships between LINC01615 and miR-590-3p, miR-590-3p and FGF2 were predicated by online software and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA pull-down assay. Results We first found that LINC01615 was upregulated in keloid tissues and fibroblasts, and LINC01615 promoted cell proliferation and collagen deposition and suppressed apoptosis in keloid fibroblasts. LINC01615 targeted miR-590-3p and downregulated miR-590-3p expression, and overexpression of miR-590-3p inhibited the development of keloid. Then, FGF2 was identified as a target of miR-590-3p. LINC01615 facilitated keloid development via regulating FGF2 expression through miR-590-3p. Conclusion Our study demonstrated that LINC01615 contributed to keloid development via the miR-590-3p/FGF2 axis.
Pathological Response Has Survival Benefits for Rectal Cancer following Neoadjuvant Therapy
Authors: Chen Wei-Chih , Kuo Li-Jen , Chen Chia-Che , Wei Po-Li , Huang Yu-Min , Huang Yan-Juin , Tong Yiu-Shun , Chen Ray-Jade
Published: March 2020

Background: Studies reporting the results of associated factors of pathological completed response (PCR) and tumor regression response in patients with rectal cancer following neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (nCRT) are inconsistent.
Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify the prognostic factors of tumor response and outcome in rectal cancer patients.
Design: The study was a retrospective analysis.
Settings: The study was conducted in a single large institution in Taiwan.
Patients: Newly diagnosed rectal cancer patients who underwent nCRT followed by surgery from 2010 to 2014 with 5 years of follow-up.
Main Outcome Measures: The primary outcomes were associated factors of pathological completed response and downstaging. The risk factors of survival outcome and disease recurrence were also observed.
Results:
A total of 169 rectal cancer patients were included. The PCR rate was 17.8%, and the downstaging rate was 60.9%. Patients with a histology type of adenocarcinoma associated with PCR, and patients positive for clinical N stage were associated with downstaging. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed the PCR group performed better to a statistically significant level both in overall survival and disease recurrence free survival than the no PCR group (p= 0.033 & 0.025, respectively). Patients with a downstaging response also showed better overall survival benefits and disease recurrence free survival benefits than their counterparts (both p<0.001). After controlling confounding variables, the risk factors of overall survival were downstaging [Hazard Ratio (HR): 0.40, 95% CI: 0.21-0.74], male, abnormal post-nCRT CEA level and abnormal Hb level. In addition, the protective factors of recurrence were downstaging and having received adjuvant chemotherapy.
Limitations: Modest sample size and limited genetic bio-markers information.
Conclusions:
Among rectal cancer patients who received the neoadjuvant therapy, histology type and clinical N stage were associated with PCR and downstaging, respectively. Downstaging was an important protective factor for better overall survival and recurrence free survival.
COVID-19 discharged patients in Hunan, China: correlation between early features and prognosis
Authors: cai yeyu , liu jiayi , Yang Haitao , Chen Taili , Yu Qizhi , Chen Juan , Huang Deng , Chen Zhu , Shang Quanliang , Ma Cong , Chen Xiangyu , Xiao Enhua
Published: March 2020

Purpose To describe the correlation between the clinical, laboratory and radiological findings with hospitalization days in Coronavirus Infected Disease-19 (COVID-19) discharged patients. Method In this multicenter study, we retrospectively identified 153 discharged patients with COVID-19 pneumonia from Jan 16, 2020 to Feb 26, 2020 in Hunan province. Patients were grouped based on the hospitalization days: Group 1 (hospitalization days≦12 days) and Group 2((hospitalization days> 12days). Demographic, clinical characteristics and laboratory findings on admission and the imaging features of the first Chest CT on admission were analyzed. The differences between groups were analyzed using univariate logistic regression to find the impact factors. Results The cohort included 153 discharged patients (85 males and 68 females, with the mean age of 42.32±14.03 years old). 90(58.8%) patients had hospitalization days≦12 and 63(41.2%) patients had hospitalization days>12. 44(48.9%) patients in Group1 and 28(44.4%) in Group 2 had been to Wuhan. In both Group1 and Group2, most common symptoms at onset were fever (62.2%, 60.3%) and cough (33.3%, 50.8%). Cough was occurred more common in Group 2(50.8%) than Group 1(33.3%) with a significant difference (p=0.03). 6(6.7%) patients in Group1 and 10(15.9%) in Group2 had admitting diagnosis as non-pneumonia (p=0.07), some of them occurred mild pneumonia during hospital stay. White blood cell (2.2%, 9.5%) and neutrophil (9.5%) count above normal were more common on in Group 2 (p=0.04, p=0.04). Patients in Group 2 had higher concentration of aspartate aminotransferase (P=0.04) than Group 1. Most of patients had multiple lesions (75.6%, 69.8%) with bilateral distribution (73.3%, 58.7%) in both groups. Mixed ground-glass opacity (GGO) and consolidation appearance were seen in most patients. GGO components > consolidation appearance were more common in Group 1(31.1%) than in Group 2(8.0%) with a significant difference between groups (P<0.01). Patients had cough at onset disease (OR, 0.47; 95%CI, 0.23 to 0.96, p=0.04) and CT represented as GGO components more than consolidation (OR, 4.84; 95%CI, 1.80 to 13.04, p<0.01) were associated with hospitalization days. Conclusions COVID-19 non-pneumonia patients with longer hospitalization days might have the persistent symptoms or pneumonia occurrence after admission. Chest CT could help prompt diagnosis and monitor disease progression, GGO/consolidation >1 in mixed lesions was associated with shorter hospitalization days. Special attention should be paid to the role of radiological features in monitoring disease prognosis.
Rates, predictors and mortality of sepsis-induced acute kidney injury: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Jie feng , Xie Hebin , Ye Ziwei , Wang Lesan
Published: March 2020

Background The incidence and mortality of sepsis-induced acute kidney injury is high. Many studies have explored the causes of sepsis-induced acute kidney injury (AKI). However, its predictors are still uncertain; additionally, a complete overview is missing. A systematic review and a meta-analysis were performed to determine the predisposing factors for sepsis-induced AKI.Method A systematic literature search was performed in the Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed and Web of Science databases, with an end date parameter of May 25, 2019. Valid data were retrieved in compliance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria.Result Forty-seven observational studies were included for analysis. A cumulative number of 55911sepsis patients were evaluated. The incidence of AKI caused by septic shock is the highest. 30 possible risk factors were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that 20 factors were found to be significant. The odds ratio(OR),95% confidence interval (CI) and Prevalence of the most prevalent predisposing factors for sepsis-induced AKI were as the following: Septic shock[2.88(2.36-3.52), 60.47%], Hypertension[1.43(1.20-1.70),38.39%), Diabetes mellitus[1.59(1.47-1.71),27.57%],Abdominal infection[1.44(1.32-1.58),30.87%], Vasopressors use[2.95(1.67-5.22),64.61%],vasoactive drugs use [3.85(1.89-7.87),63.22%], Mechanical ventilation[1.64(1.24-2.16),68.00%), Positive blood culture[1.60(1.35-1.89), 41.19%], Smoke history[1.60(1.09-2.36),43.09%]. Other risk factors include cardiovascular, coronary artery disease, liver disease, unknow infection, diuretics use, ACEI or ARB, gram-negative bacteria and organ transplant.Conclusion A large number of factors are associated with AKI development in sepsis patients. Our review can guide risk-reducing interventions, clinical prediction rules, and patient-specific treatment and management strategies for sepsis-induced acute kidney injury.
Deficiencies in the formation and regulation of anther cuticle and tryphine contribute to male sterility in cotton PGMS line
Authors: Zhang Meng , Liu Ji , Ma Qiang , Qin Yuan , Wang Hantao , Chen Pengyun , Ma Liang , Fu Xiaokang , Zhu Longfu , Wei Hengling , Yu Shuxun
Published: March 2020

Background: Male sterility is a simple and efficient pollination control system that is widely exploited in hybrid breeding. In upland cotton, CCRI9106, a photosensitive genetic male sterile (PGMS) mutant isolated from CCRI040029, was reported of great advantages to cotton heterosis. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of CCRI9106 remains unclear.Results: In this study, light and electron microscopy revealed that the male sterility phenotype of MT was mainly attributed to irregularly exine, lacking tryphine and immature anther cuticle. Based on the cytological characteristics of MT anthers, 18 RNA libraries were constructed from the anthers of MT and WT at tetrad (TTP), late uninucleate (LUNP) and binucleate (BNP) stages of anther development for transcriptomic analysis, therefore revealing a total of 870,4 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). By performing gene expression pattern analysis and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks construction, we found down-regulation of DEGs in cluster 2, which enriched by the lipid biosynthetic process and the synthesis pathways of several types of secondary metabolites such as terpenoids, flavonoids and steroids, may crucial to the male sterility phenotype of MT, and resulting in the defects of anther cuticle and tryphine, even the irregularly exine. Furthermore, several lipid-related genes together with ABA-related genes and MYB transcription factors were identified as hub genes via weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), such as NPC2, LTPG, LTP1, MAKR6, Ghir_D11G032630, Ghir_A01G008890, Ghir_D01G009320, MYB3, MYB7, MYB16 and MYB48. Additionally, the ABA content of MT anthers was reduced across all stage when compared with WT anthers.Conclusions: In summary, we propose that the down-regulation of genes related to the assembly of anther cuticle and tryphine may lead to the male sterile phenotype of MT, and MYB transcription factors together with ABA play key regulatory role in these processes. These findings provide valuable information on the transcriptional level to anther and pollen development, and contribute to elucidate the mechanism of male sterility in upland cotton.
Effect of family doctor contract services on patient perceived quality of primary care in Southern China
Authors: Feng Shanshan , Cheng Aiyun , Luo Zhenni , Xiao Yao , Zhang Luwen
Published: March 2020

Background Family doctor contract service is an important service item in China’s primary care reform. This research was designed to evaluate the impact of the provision of family doctor contract services on the patient-perceived quality of primary care, and therefore give evidence-based policy suggestions. Methods This cross-sectional study of family doctor contract service policy was conducted in three pilot cities in the Pearl River Delta, South China,using a multistage stratified sampling method. The adapted Primary Care Assessment Tool-Adult Edition (PCAT-AS) was used to measure the quality of primary care services. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews held from July to November, 2015. Covariate analysis and multivariate Linear Regression were adopted to explore the effect of contract on the quality of primary care by controlling for the socio-demographic status and health care service utilization factors. Results A total of 828 valid questionnaires were collected. From the interviewees, 453 patients signed the contract (54.7%) and 375 did not (45.3%). Multivariate linear regression showed that patients who received services from contracted family doctors reported higher scores in dimensions of PCAT total score (β=-8.98, P<0.000), first contact-utilization(β=-0.71,P<0.001), first contact-accessibility(β=-1.49, P<0.001), continuity (β=1.27, P<0.001), coordination(referral) (β=-1.42, P<0.001), comprehensiveness(utilization) (β=-1.70, P<0.001), comprehensiveness(provision) (β=-0.99, P<0.001), family-centeredness(β=-0.52, P<0.01), community orientation(β=-1.78, P<0.001), than those who did not receive contract services after controlling socio-demographic and service utilization factors. There were no statistically significant differences in the dimensions of coordination (information system) (β=-0.25, P=0.137) and culture orientation (β=-0.264, P=0.056), than those who did not receive family doctor contract services. Conclusions This study demonstrates that the pilot implementation of family doctor contract services has significantly improved patients’ perceived primary care quality in the pilot cities, and could help solve the quality problem of primary care. It needs further promotion across the province.
Canine SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Sit Thomas HC , Brackman Christopher J , Ip Sin Ming , Tam Karina WS , Law Pierra YT , To Esther MW , Yu Veronica YT , Sims Leslie D , Tsang Dominic NC , Chu Daniel KW , Perera Ranawaka APM , Poon Leo LM , Peiris Malik
Published: March 2020

SARS-CoV-2 emerged in Wuhan in December 2019 and has caused the pandemic respiratory disease, COVID-19. Following what is presumed to be an initial zoonotic transmission event, the virus is now spreading efficient in humans. Very little is known about the susceptibility of domestic mammals kept as pets to this virus. Samples were collected over a 13-day period from a 17 year-old neutered male Pomeranian in Hong Kong SA that was taken into isolation after two members of the household tested positive for the virus. Nasal swabs were consistently positive on the five occasions the dog was tested using quantitative RT- PCR with viral loads between 7.5xE2 to 2.6 x10E4 RNA copies per mL of sample. The dog remained asymptomatic. Cultures attempted on three RT-PCR positive nasal samples were negative. Gene sequences from samples from two household members were identical. The viral sequence from the dog differed at three nucleotide positions; two of these resulted in amino acid changes but their significance is yet to be determined. Seroconversion was not detected but this was expected given the asymptomatic infection and low virus load. The evidence suggests that this is an instance of human-to-animal transmission of SARS-COV-2. It is likely that we could see similar events in other infected households. We do not have information yet on whether this virus can cause illness in dogs but no specific signs were seen in this dog. Whether infected dogs could transmit the virus to other animals or back to humans remains unknown. In this case it did not appear to have occurred.
Entanglement spreading and quasiparticle picture beyond the pair structure
Authors: Bastianello Alvise , Collura Mario
Published: March 2020

The quasi-particle picture is a powerful tool to understand the entanglement spreading in many-body quantum systems after a quench.
As an input, the structure of the excitations' pattern of the initial state must be provided,
the common choice being pairwise-created excitations.
However, several cases exile this simple assumption.
In this work we investigate weakly-interacting to free quenches in one dimension.
This results in a far richer excitations' pattern where multiplets with a larger number of particles are excited.
We generalize the quasi-particle ansatz to such a wide class of initial states,
providing a small-coupling expansion of the Rényi entropies.
Our results are in perfect agreement with iTEBD numerical simulations.
Użyteczność i ograniczenia badania 18F-FDG PET/CT w diagnostyce nowotworu złośliwego przełyku
Authors: Pietrzak Agata Karolina , Martenka Piotr , Strzesak Erwin , Pietrasz Katarzyna , Heydrych Aleksandra , Pisarska Beata , Kucnerowicz Karolina , Cholewiński Witold
Published: March 2020

Mimo ograniczeń techniki pozytonowej tomografii emisyjnej/tomografii komputerowej z użyciem radiofarmaceutyku 18F-Fluorodeoksyglukozy (18F-FDG PET/CT), wśród których wyróżniamy m.in. nieswoisty charakter radiofarmaceutyku 18F-FDG oraz niewielką dostępność, czy w końcu - wysokie koszty badania, liczni autorzy wskazują badanie 18F-FDG PET/CT jako najbardziej użyteczną metodę w procesie wykrywania, oceny stopnia zaawansowania i planowania leczenia nowotworu złośliwego przełyku.
Análise da intenção de doar sangue sob a perspectiva de doadores e não doadores: Uma comparação entre grupos
Authors: Pereira Jefferson Rodrigues , Veloso e Sousa Caissa , Shigaki Helena Belintani , de Matos Eliane Bragança
Published: March 2020

Este estudo tem como objetivo identificar as principais variáveis que exercem influência na intenção de doar sangue para doadores e não doadores. A pesquisa tem abordagem quantitativa, com 641 questionários preenchidos, onde foram realizadas análises fatoriais exploratória e confirmatória, seguidas por uma Modelagem de Equações Estruturais. Os resultados indicam a necessidade de diferenciação das campanhas públicas direcionadas aos diversos segmentos de doadores e potenciais doadores. Além disso, identificou-se uma diferenciação entre a intenção de doação de sangue entre doadores e não doadores, e também uma diferenciação estatisticamente significante entre homens e mulheres. O envolvimento e o conhecimento do processo de doação de sangue são influentes no segmento dos que já doaram. Por outro lado, a influência das normas subjetivas parece ser importante para o segmento de não doadores e poderia ser melhor evidenciada nas campanhas. Esse fator aparece também, de maneira relevante, junto ao segmento masculino.
Aloperine Induces Apoptosis by a Reactive Oxygen Species Activation Mechanism in Human Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Qiu Mingning , Liu Jie , Su Yongxia , Liu Jianjun , Wu Chenchen , Zhao Baoyu
Published: March 2020

Background:

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy worldwide with
poor prognosis owing to chemotherapy resistance and cancer relapse. Hence, there is an urgent
need to develop novel anticancer agents against ovarian cancer.

Objective:

The aim of this research is to investigate the possible anticancer activity of aloperine, an
active ingredient from a traditional Chinese medicine Sophora alopecuroides, and to explore the
possible Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)-related mechanism.

Methods:

Cell viability, cytotoxicity, apoptosis, ROS generation, and oxidant stress indicators
were analyzed.

Results:

Our results demonstrated that aloperine significantly induced inhibition of cell viability,
promoted cytotoxicity and mitochondrial-related apoptosis, and increased ROS generation in
ovarian cancer cells. Furthermore, the antioxidant α-lipoic acid reversed apoptosis in aloperinetreated
cells. In addition, we identified hydrogen peroxide as the main type of ROS, and the antioxidant
catalase suppressed the apoptotic inducing effect of aloperine whereas hydrogen peroxide supplement
exacerbated the effect of aloperine in ovarian cancer cells.

Conclusion:

Taken together, our results indicated that aloperine could exert anti-ovarian cancer
cell activity through a reactive oxygen species activation mechanism and suggested aloperine as a
potential agent against ovarian cancer.
Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide and Nanomaterial Exposure in Workplaces
Authors: Iavicoli Ivo , Fontana Luca , Leso Veruscka , Macrini Maria Carmela , Pelclova Daniela
Published: March 2020

Background:

The widespread application of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) and the
increasing likelihood of general and occupational exposure raised concerns on their possible human
health impact. ENMs, in fact, may induce alterations in different organ systems, and particularly in
the respiratory tract. This makes it important to identify possible biomarkers of early lung effect in
exposed workers. In this regard, the possibility to use the fractional exhaled levels of nitric oxide
(FENO) in biological monitoring has attracted considerable interest.

Objective:

To comprehensively assess the role of FENO as a possible biomarker of lung effect in
ENM exposed workers.

Methods:

A systematic search was performed on Pubmed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Knowledge
databases according to the PRISMA guidelines.

Results:

Seven studies investigated FENO in workers exposed to different kinds of metal-(i.e.
silver and gold), metal oxide- (titanium and silica dioxide), and carbon-based ENMs (carbon nanotubes).
In general, no significant alterations were detected between exposed workers and controls.

Conclusions:

Definite conclusion on the function of FENO in occupational biological monitoring
cannot be extrapolated due to the limited number of available studies and the small size of investigated
populations. Additionally, the lack of environmental monitoring data and the fragmented
knowledge on ENM modes of action prevent to establish dose-response relationships. Future research
appears necessary to deeply define the possibility to employ FENO as an early biomarker of
lung effects taking in consideration possible occupational exposure issues, i.e. differently characterized
ENMs and work tasks, as well as individual influencing factors, i.e. smoking and atopy.
Marine Natural Products as a Promising Source of Therapeutic Compounds to Target Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Vizetto-Duarte Catarina , Castelo-Branco Pedro , Custódio Luísa
Published: March 2020

Cancer is the world’s leading cause of death after heart diseases and involves abnormal
cell growth at a primary site and the potential to spread to other parts of the body. Tumors
are highly heterogeneous and consist of subgroups of cells with distinct characteristics.
Of these, the cancer stem cells (CSC) niche plays a crucial role in driving the spread of the
tumor and are thought to provide treatment resistance. CSC is a rare special population of cancer
cells exhibiting high tumorigenic properties together with self-renewal and differentiation
capability. CSC is not only linked with high tumor-initiating activity, but is also implicated in
chemotherapeutic resistance, metastasis, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and recurrence.
Thereafter, novel therapeutic strategies targeting CSC are in need to improve long-term clinical
outcomes. The literature supports the evidence that marine natural compounds can exhibit
antioxidant, antimitotic, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic as well as anticancer activity. In this
review, we will provide an insight into the relevance of selected marine natural products as a
source of bioactive compounds with anti-cancer properties to target CSC, which may benefit
the development of novel anti-cancer therapeutic strategies.
Magnolia officinalis Reduces Inflammation and Damage Induced by Recurrent Status Epilepticus in Immature Rats
Authors: Vega-García Angélica , Rocha Luisa , Guevara-Guzmán Rosalinda , Guerra-Araiza Christian , Feria-Romero Iris , Gallardo Juan M. , Neri-Gomez Teresa , Suárez-Santiago José E. , Orozco-Suarez Sandra
Published: March 2020

Background:

Neuroinflammation induced in response to damage caused by status epilepticus (SE)
activates the interleukin (IL)1-β pathway and proinflammatory proteins that increase vulnerability to the development
of spontaneous seizure activity and/or epilepsy.

Objectives:

The study aimed to assess the short-term anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of Magnolia
officinalis (MO) on recurrent SE in immature rats.

Methods:

Sprague-Dawley rats at PN day 10 were used; n = 60 rats were divided into two control groups, SHAM
and KA, and two experimental groups, MO (KA-MO) and Celecoxib (KA-Clbx). The anti-inflammatory effect of
a single dose of MO was evaluated at 6 and 24 hr by Western blotting and on day 30 PN via a subchronic administration
of MO to assess neuronal preservation and hippocampal gliosis by immunohistochemistry for NeunN and
GFAP, respectively.

Results:

KA-MO caused a decrease in the expression of IL1-β and Cox-2 at 6 and 24 h post-treatment, a reduction
in iNOS synthase at 6 and 24 hr post-treatment and reduced neuronal loss and gliosis at postnatal day 30,
similar to Clbx.

Conclusion:

The results indicating that Magnolia officinalis is an alternative preventive treatment for early stages
of epileptogenesis are encouraging.
Metabolic Adaptations to Pregnancy in Healthy and Gestational Diabetic Pregnancies: The Pancreas - Placenta Axis
Authors: Szlapinski Sandra K. , Hill David J.
Published: March 2020

Normal pregnancy is associated with increased insulin resistance as a metabolic adaptation to
the nutritional demands of the placenta and fetus, and this is amplified in obese mothers. Insulin resistance
is normally compensated for by an adaptive increase in pancreatic β-cell mass together with enhanced
glucose-stimulated insulin release. Placentally-derived hormones and growth factors are central
to the altered pancreatic morphology and function. A failure of β-cells to undergo adaptive change after
the first trimester has been linked with gestational diabetes. In the pregnant mouse, an increase in β-cell
replication contributes to a 2-3-fold increase in mass peaking in late gestation, depending on the proliferation
of existing β-cells, the differentiation of resident progenitor β-cells, or islet cell transdifferentiation.
Using mouse models and human studies placenta- and islet of Langerhans-derived molecules
have been identified that are likely to contribute to the metabolic adaptations to pregnancy and
whose physiology is altered in the obese, glucose-intolerant mother. Maternal obesity during pregnancy
can create a pro-inflammatory environment that can disrupt the response of the β-cells to the endocrine
signals of pregnancy and limit the adaptive changes in β-cell mass and function, resulting in an increased
risk of gestational diabetes.
New Analytical and Numerical Solutions of the Particle Breakup Process
Authors: Hasseine Abdelmalek , Hlawitschka Mark W. , Omar Waid , Bart Hans-Jörg
Published: March 2020

Objective:

In this work, we obtained the analytical and approximate solutions of the population balance equations (PBEs) involving the breakup process in batch and continuous flow by applying the Adomian decomposition method and piecewise continuous basis functions, respectively.

Methods:

The key to the advanced numerical method is to represent the number distribution function of the dispersed phase through the orthogonal Chebyshev basis polynomials. It is a straightforward and effective method that has the advantage of simultaneously giving the distribution and the different required moments. Therefore, it does not require the construction of the distribution from moments computations obtained by the transformation of the initial problem and the lost information.

Results:

The performance of this numerical approach is evaluated by solving breakup equation and comparison against analytical solutions obtained from the Adomian decomposition method, which generally allows the analysis of this approach.

Conclusion:

The numerical results obtained by the present numerical method were compared with the new analytical solutions of the PBE. It was found that both piecewise continuous basis functions and analytical solutions have comparable results.
The Secretome of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Prevents Islet Beta Cell Apoptosis via an IL-10-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Al-Azzawi Buthainah , McGuigan Declan H. , Koivula Fiona N. Manderson , Elttayef Ajile , Dale Tina P. , Yang Ying , Kelly Catriona , Forsyth Nicholas R.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is partly driven by autoimmune destruction of the pancreatic beta cell, facilitated by the release of inflammatory cytokines, including IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-1β by cells of the innate immune system. Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) have been used to counteract autoimmunity in a range of therapeutic settings due to their secretion of trophic and immunomodulatory factors that ameliorate disease independently of the cells themselves.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of the secretome of human bone-marrow derived MSCs on cytokine-driven beta cell apoptosis.

Methods:

All experiments were conducted in two insulin-secreting islet cell lines (BRIN-BD11 and βTC1.6) with selected experiments confirmed in primary islets. MSC secretome was generated by conditioning serum-free media (MSC-CM) for 24 hours on sub-confluent MSC populations. The media was then removed and filtered in readiness for use.

Results:

Exposure to IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-1β induced apoptosis in cell lines and primary islets. The addition of MSC-CM to cell lines and primary islets partially reversed cytokine-driven apoptosis. MSC-CM also restored glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in cytokine-treated cell lines, which was linked to improved cell viability following from cytokine challenge. Characterization of MSC-CM revealed significant concentrations of IL-4, IL-10, PIGF and VEGF. Of these, IL-10 alone prevented cytokine-driven apoptosis. Furthermore, the inhibition of IL-10 through the addition of a blocking antibody reversed the anti-apoptotic effects of MSC-CM.

Conclusion:

Overall, the protective effects of MSC-CM on islet beta cell survival appear to be largely IL-10-dependent.
A Comparative Study Between Single Medial Canthus Injection Using 13 x 0.45 mm Needle and Posterior Sub-Tenon Injection as Local Anesthesia Techniques for Strabismus Surgery in Adults
Authors: A. Sherif Norhan , Mohamad Mayada K. , Hannon Ahmed A. , Osama Noha A.
Published: March 2020

Background:

The quality of ophthalmic anesthesia is an important component of the surgical procedure. There is no absolutely well-tolerated local eye anesthetic technique. However, it is important to choose a technique with high efficacy and safety.

Objective:

This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of peribulbar block using medial canthus single injection and posterior sub-tenon injection techniques.

Methods:

This prospective observational study was carried out at the Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Cairo, Egypt during the period from March to December 2018. Consecutive 60 patients of both sexes, aged >18 years-old, scheduled for bilateral strabismus surgery were enrolled in this study. In one eye of the sixty patients, medial canthus single injection peribulbar anesthesia was used (Group A), whereas posterior sub-tenon technique was applied in the other eye (Group B).

Results:

The median total ocular akinesia score was significantly higher in group A than in group B when assessed at 1, 3, and 5 min (p< 0.001). Each of the intraoperative (at 5 min) and postoperative pain scores showed no significant differences between the two groups (p> 0.05). However, the median scores of surgeon and patient satisfaction were significantly higher in group A compared with group B (3vs.2 each,p< 0.05). No patient developed occulocardiac reflex or postoperative nausea and vomiting.

Conclusion:

Peribulbar anesthesia by medial canthus single injection showed better akinesia of the globe than sub-tenon injection technique. Otherwise, both techniques were equally effective and safe.
Многоуровневая запись в тонких пленках Ge-=SUB=-2-=/SUB=-Sb-=SUB=-2-=/SUB=-Te-=SUB=-5-=/SUB=-
Authors: Фефелов С.А. , Казакова Л.П. , Богословский Н.А. , Былев А.Б. , Якубов А.О.
Published: March 2020

I−V characteristics obtained on Ge2Sb2Te5 thin films in the current mode were studied. The effect of multilevel recording was established upon sequentially applying to the sample current pulses with increasing maximum value. It was shown that this effect can be associated with expansion of the memory
channel. An estimate of the channel size is obtained. It is concluded that Ge2Sb2Te5 films can be used as a memristor.
Излучательные характеристики мощных полупроводниковых лазеров (1060 нм) с узким мезаполосковым контактом на основе асимметричных гетероструктур AlGaAs/GaAs с широким волноводом
Authors: Шашкин И.С. , Лешко А.Ю. , Николаев Д.Н. , Шамахов В.В. , Рудова Н.А. , Бахвалов К.В. , Лютецкий А.В. , Капитонов В.А. , Золотарев В.В. , Слипченко С.О. , Пихтин Н.А. , Копьев П.С.
Published: March 2020

Light characteristics of narrow-stripe lasers (5.5 m) based on asymmetric AlGaAs/GaAs heterostructures are studied. It was shown that the maximum optical power achieved under continuous-wave (CW) operation is limited by thermal heating and reaches 1695 mW at a current of 2350 mA at +25°C, and the maximum efficiency reaches 54.8 %. By reducing the operating temperature to -8°C, we were able to increase the maximum power to 2 W. A peak power of 2930 mW was obtained under pulsed operation (pulse width 240 ns, amplitude 4230 mA). It is shown there is a region of an “optical dip” in the power profile with a low-efficiency lasing of a train of pulses of sub-ns duration under pulsed operation.
Одномодовые лазеры (1050 нм) мезаполосковой конструкции на основе гетероструктуры AlGaAs/GaAs со сверхузким волноводом
Authors: Шашкин И.С , Лешко А.Ю , Николаев Д.Н , Шамахов В.В , Веселов Д.А , Рудова Н.А , Бахвалов К.В , Золотарев В.В , Слипченко С.О , Пихтин Н.А , Копьев П.С
Published: March 2020

The radiation properties of single-mode lasers based on an AlGaAs/GaAs heterostructure with an ultra-narrow waveguide are studied. It is shown that the use of an ultra-narrow waveguide (100 nm) and thin (70 nm) wide-gap barriers at the waveguide/cladding interface improves the vertical divergence. The lateral and vertical divergences were 5 and 18.5 degrees, respectively, for the developed narrow-stripe (5.1 µm) single-mode lasers. An efficient single-mode operation up to a power of 200 mW is demonstrated. A further increase in current leads to the onset of higher-order modes, while the maximum optical power achieved under continuous-wave (CW) operation is limited by overheating and is 550 mW. The transfer to a pulsed operation (pulse width 200 ns) made it possible to raise the maximum peak optical power to 1500 mW.
Особенности фазовых переходов в висмутсодержащих упругонапряженных гетеросистемах AlGaInSbBi-InSb
Authors: Алфимова Д.Л. , Лунин Л.С. , Лунина М.Л. , Пащенко А.С. , Пащенко О.С.
Published: March 2020

In this paper the features of phase transformations in elastically stressed Al–Ga–In–Sb–Bi heterosystems and its subsystems In–Sb–Bi and Al–In–Bi are discussed. Isotherms for the aforesaid heterosystems and its subsystems are researched at temperatures from 653 to 923 K. The critical temperatures and critical point coordinates of spinodal decomposition of AlGaInSbBi solid solution are determined with regard to the coherent deformation energy. The elastic stresses effect on the thermodynamic behavior of the
AlGaInSbBi–InSb heterosystem is investigated.
Электронная структура и нелинейная диэлектрическая восприимчивость γ-фазы оксида теллура
Authors: Рогинский Е.М. , Смирнов М.Б.
Published: March 2020

The structural electronic and nonlinear optical properies of the γ-TeO2 crystal is studied by ab inito quantum mechanical calculations. The incluence of 5d electrons localization effect is taken into account in calculations by using Habbard-like correction term (LDA+U approximation). The obtained within such approach structural parameters are obtained in a good agreement with experimental data. The electronic bund structure is studied within quasiparticle G0W0 approximation, which is known as the most accurate method. It was found that the γ-TeO2 crystal is wide gap semiconductor with non-direct band gap. The analysis of the chemical bond is performed using Maximaly Localized Wannier functions. It is established that the valence electrons of ozigen atoms are belong to sp3-hybridization states and valence of tellurium atoms are equal to four.
Двумерные O(n)-модели с дефектами типа "случайная локальная анизотропия"
Authors: Берзин А.А. , Морозов А.И. , Сигов А.С.
Published: March 2020

The phase diagram of two-dimensional systems with continuous symmetry of the vector order parameter containing defects of the “random local anisotropy” type is investigated. In the case of a weakly anisotropic distribution of the easy anisotropy axes in the space of the order parameter, with decreasing temperature, a smooth transition takes place from the paramagnetic phase with dynamic fluctuations of the order parameter to the Imri-Ma phase with its static fluctuations. In the case when the anisotropic distribution of the easy axes induces a global anisotropy of the “easy axis” type that exceeds a critical value, the system goes into the Ising class of universality, and a phase transition to the ordered state occurs in it at a finite temperature.
Математическое моделирование двумерной диодной системы с полевым эмиттером лезвийной формы
Authors: Виноградова Е.М. , Доронин Г.Г. , Егоров Н.В.
Published: March 2020

In this paper the calculation of the electrostatic potential distribution for a two-dimensional diode emission system with a blade-shaped field emitter on a plane substrate is presented. The anode is a plane parallel to the substrate. To calculate the potential distribution, the effect of the emitter is simulated as the effect of a charged line, so that the emitter surface is zero equipotential. To solve the boundary problem, the method of separation of variables in Cartesian coordinates is used. All geometrical sizes of the diode system are parameters of the problem.
Разрушение стационарного вихря в упругой среде за счет внешнего энергетического воздействия
Authors: Сухомлинов В.С. , Мустафаев А.С. , Страхова А.А. , Тимофеев Н.А.
Published: March 2020

The problem of the infinite vortex tube structure dynamics in an ideal gas with an explosive external supply of energy near its axis solution is considered. It was found that, neglecting viscosity and heat conductivity, the tube collapses at an arbitrarily low power of energy release, while the decay time of the vortex decreases with increasing total power of energy release. A physical flow pattern that explains the discovered patterns is constructed. Analytical relations for the practical use of explosives in the destruction of large-diameter vortices are obtained. Estimates show that the proposed method is practically feasible.
Определение плотности и интенcивности орошения лесного горючего материала перед фронтом горения при создании эффективной заградительной полосы
Authors: Волков Р.С. , Кузнецов Г.В. , Осипов К.Ю. , Хасанов И.Р.
Published: March 2020

The results of experiments on the localization and complete cessation of flame combustion and thermal decomposition of typical forest combustible materials (on the example of pine needles and birch leaves) are presented. Before the combustion front, a specialized barrier strip was used in the form of a moistened layer of material with control of its size and retained volume of water. Necessary and sufficient conditions for the complete cessation of flame propagation and the pyrolysis front are determined. The relationships between the main parameters are established: the volume of water, the density and intensity of irrigation, the size of the water barrier, the volume of dry forest combustible material. When summarizing the experimental results, the values ​​of the rational density and intensity of irrigation of forest combustible material in front of the combustion front are highlighted. The main differences in the selection of the effective values ​​of these parameters are shown in the case of localization and cessation of flame burning and thermal decomposition of needles and leaves.
Магнитное торможение и энергетические потери в бесконтактных подшипниках на основе сверхпроводящих лент
Authors: Подливаев А.И. , Руднев И.А.
Published: March 2020

The problems of magnetic braking and the occurrence of energy losses in non-contact bearings based on high-temperature superconducting tapes are considered. Model bearing configurations are considered in which the superconducting tape is a stator and the rotor is a set of permanent magnets. It is shown that magnetic friction can be neglected in the case when the number of permanent magnets in the rotor is more than eight. This result indicates the possibility of creating scaled magnetic bearings for long-term energy storage systems, for example, kinetic drives.
Функциональная усталость сплавов с эффектом памяти формы систем Ni-Mn-Ga и Ni-Ti в условиях термоциклирования под постоянной нагрузкой
Authors: Калашников В.С. , Мусабиров И.И. , Коледов В.В. , Андреев В.А. , Гундеров Д.В. , Шавров В.Г.
Published: March 2020

A comparative study of the functional properties and functional fatigue of Ni-Mn-Ga alloys in the initial cast state and Ni-Ti alloys in the initial hot-forged state without heat treatment was carried out. Measurements were carried out using experimental technique of three-point bending of samples in the form of plates of ~ 0.7 mm x 10 mm x 1.5 mm. It is shown that Ni2MnGa alloy in the cast state is preferably used for lightly loaded actuators (up to 100 MPa) and reversible deformations (up to 1.5%) in the temperature range from -85 C to -75 C; Ni-Ti system alloy in hot-forged state is recommended for highly loaded actuators (up to 500 MPa) , high reversible deformations (up to 8.5%) in the temperature range from -40 C to 40 C.
Детектор для регистрации электронов с энергией 5-30 keV в установке "Троицк ню-масс"
Authors: Аруев П.Н. , Берлёв А.И. , Забродский В.В. , Задорожный С.В. , Николаев А.В. , Титов Н.А. , Шерстнев Е.В.
Published: March 2020

The task of the research is to overview detector types for monitoring electons from a tritium beta decay in a sterile neitrino exploration.
A new ASPD (avalanche silicon precision detector) detector was prefered because of 2.5E7 count rate benefits with a spectrometric opportunity at the room temperature with an active area of 0.785mm2.
Квазимакроскопические приграничные структуры в непростых " жидкостях: эксперимент и модель
Authors: Алтоиз Б.А. , Бондарев В.Н.
Published: March 2020

Как показывают эксперименты, вблизи границы "непростой" жидкости (например, нитробензола) с твердой подложкой может существовать протяженная --- так называемая, эпитропная --- фаза с признаками упорядоченного (по типу нематического жидкого кристалла) расположения молекул. Приведены новые результаты по измерению температурной зависимости толщины этой фазы в нитробензоле на металлической подложке. Эти (и полученные ранее для системы нитробензол/кварц) результаты интерпретируются в рамках модифицированной теоретической модели эпитропной фазы как "ворса" олигомеров, сцепленных с подложкой силами адсорбции. Эффект упорядочения существенно определен "боковыми" взаимодействиями в ансамбле адсорбированных олигомеров. Обсуждена возможность существования приграничной фазы перегретого кристалла (в частности, нитробензола), стабилизированного абсорбционными силами со стороны подложки. Ключевые слова: эпитропная фаза, органические жидкости, поверхностные силы, приграничный перегретый кристалл, статистическая модель.
Получение карбида титана в атмосферной электроразрядной плазме
Authors: Пак А.Я. , Якич Т.Ю. , Мамонтов Г.Я. , Рудмин М.А. , Васильева Ю.З.
Published: March 2020

The paper discusses the experimental studies connected with development of scientific and technical foundations for the synthesis method of titanium carbide by electric arc discharge plasma under ambient air condition. According to the X-ray diffraction data, the dependences between the product phase composition and the synthesis duration was determined. According to the scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive analyses data, a morphological types number of titanium carbide particles, which are formed as a result of uneven distribution of energy in the reaction volume, was identified.
Управление траекториями положительно и отрицательно заряженных частиц с помощью отражения на цепочке изогнутых монокристаллов
Authors: Маишеев В.А. , Чесноков М.Ю.
Published: March 2020

A fast algorithm for calculating the passage of particles through a chain of curved single crystals is proposed, based on the phenomenon of reflection of a beam of relativistic particles from the atomic planes of the crystal. The results of calculating the passage of particles through a sequence of eight curved crystals are compared with experimental data.
Ускорение потока пылевой плазмы в азимутальном электрическом и радиальном магнитном полях
Authors: Каримов А.Р. , Терехов С.А. , Шиканов А.Е.
Published: March 2020

In the framework of the model of cold hydrodynamics, the acceleration of the dusty plasma flow in azimuthal electric and radial magnetic fields is studied. The results show that there are conditions under which macroscopic particles are captured and accelerated by the plasma flow.