bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STRENGTH PROPERTIES OF BOWEL WALL AND SAFETY OF ENDOSCOPIC STENTING IN PATIENTS WITH COLORECTAL CANCER AND ACUTE OBSTRUCTION
Authors: Totikov Z. V. , Totikov V. Z. , Epkhiev A. A. , Kulumbegov G R. , Gadaev Sh. Sh. , Magоmadov E. A.
Published: August 2019

AIM: to evaluate the strength properties of the colorectal tumors in patients with colorectal cancer with acute bowel obstruction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: twenty-six resected specimens with colorectal cancer complicated by acute bowel obstruction were studied using histological and immunohistochemical methods. Following criteria have been assessed: tumor histological structure and differentiation, invasion depth, bowel wall thickness in central and peripheral tumor parts, ratio of necrosis, proper tumor tissue and preserved muscular and serosal layers. RESULTS: in tumors of 3.9-5.5 cm long no significant differences were detected between volume ratio of the preserved muscle tissue, fibrous tissue and necrotic tissue in central part of tumors compared with peripheral one. In tumor >5.5 cm long the volume ratio of proper tumor and necrotic tissue was significantly higher in tumor central part compared to peripheral one. CONCLUSION: endoscopic stenting in colorectal cancer with acute bowel obstruction is more safety if tumor length ≤5.5 cm. The tumor perforation is highly likely when tumor length >5.5 cm
CROHN'S DISEASE AND MULTIPLE MYELOMA: A CLINICAL CASE AND LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Taratina O. V. , Makarchuk P. A. , Vysotskaya L. L.
Published: August 2019

Crohn's disease and multiple myeloma are pathological entities, the development of which, at least in part, is associated with an immune disregulation. Crohn's disease is often combined with extra-intestinal manifestations from different organs and systems (joints, skin, eyes, etc.). Hematological extra-intestinal manifestations, such as myelodysplastic syndrome, aplastic autoimmune anemia, autoimmune thrombocytopenia, B12-deficiency anemia are less common. The list of extra-intestinal manifestations of Crohn's disease is constantly expanding, including more and more descriptions of the combination of Crohn's disease with diseases of the blood system. The paper presents a rare clinical case of a combination of Crohn's disease and multiple myeloma. The female patient is 53 years old. In 1993 ulcerative colitis was diagnosed and she received Sulfasalazine 4gr per day. In 2015, with the recurrent attack, the diagnosis was transformed towards Crohn's disease basing on colonoscopy. She received steroid therapy. In 2018 the control examination revealed an increase in the level of total protein to 117gr/l. Patient underwent a sternal biopsy. Multiple myeloma was diagnosed on the basis of a myelogram.
COLON DUPLICATION (case report)
Authors: Filimonov V. B. , Motin A. P. , Dobrynin V. V. , Vasin R. V.
Published: August 2019

This case report describes a rare condition – colon duplication in patient in adulthood, which underwent surgery for benign abdominal tumor. The diagnosis was established after histological study of the resected specimen.
Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) Simulation for Dosage Optimization of Colistin Against Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and Carbapenem-Resistant Escherichia coli
Authors: Jitaree Kamonchanok , Sathirakul Korbtham , Houngsaitong Jantana , Asuphon Orarik , Saelim Weerayuth , Thamlikitkul Visanu , Montakantikul Preecha
Published: August 2019

The purpose was to explore the optimal dosage regimen of colistin using Monte Carlo simulations, for the treatment of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and carbapenem-resistant Escherichia coli based on PK/PD targets in critically ill patients. A total of 116 carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae and E. coli were obtained from various clinical specimens at Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of colistin were determined by broth microdilution method. Monte Carlo simulation was used to calculate the cumulative fraction of response (CFR) for European Medicine Agency (EMA), US-Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Nation et al., Siriraj Hospital and our study regimens. The targeted CFR was 90%. For colistin-susceptible K. pneumoniae, all of the dosage regimens achieved ≥90% CFR in patients with creatinine clearance <80 mL/min except the FDA-approved regimens for patients with creatinine clearance 51–79 and 11–29 mL/min, respectively. While, patients with creatinine clearance ≥80 mL/min, CFR ≥90% was observed in Siriraj Hospital and our study regimen. For colistin-susceptible E. coli, all of the dosage regimens achieved ≥90% CFR regardless of renal function. In contrast, the currently approved regimens achieved CFR target in only 10-50% for colistin-resistant isolates subgroup. These results suggest that currently approved regimens still recommended for colistin-susceptible CRE. For colistin-resistant CRE, alternative approaches such as high dose or combination therapy should be considered.
Inhibitory Effect of Nelumbo nucifera Leaf Extract on 2-Acetylaminofluorene-induced Hepatocarcinogenesis Through Enhancing Antioxidative Potential and Alleviating Inflammation in Rats
Authors: Yang Mon-Yuan , Hung Tung-Wei , Wang Chau-Jong , Tseng Tsui-Hwa
Published: August 2019

Leaf extract of Nelumbo nucifera (NLE) has been demonstrated to possess anti-atherosclerosis, improve alcohol-induced steatohepatitis, prevent high-fat diet-induced obesity, and inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of human breast cancer cells. This study determines the chemopreventive role of NLE against 2-acetylaminofluorene (AAF)-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in rats. AAF was used to induce hepatocarcinogenesis in rats through genetic and nongenetic effects. After administration for 12 weeks, NLE (0.5–2%) supplementation orally inhibited AAF (0.03%)-induced hepatic fibrosis which appears during the development of premalignant lesions in rats. After the 6-month experiment, NLE supplementation resulted in decreasing AAF-induced serum parameters of hepatic injury, including the level of triglycerides, total cholesterol, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and inflammatory mediator interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α as well as the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (γGT). NLE supplementation also reduced AAF-induced lipid peroxidation and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) formation in the rat liver. Hepatic histopathological investigation revealed that NLE supplementation attenuated the AAF-induced HCC and glutathione S-transferase-Pi (GST-Pi) expression. Furthermore, NLE supplementation increased the expression of transcription factor, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its downstream targets, including catalase, glutathion peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD-1) in the rat liver. Our findings indicate that NLE supplementation inhibited AAF-induced hepatocarcinogenesis by enhancing antioxidative potential and alleviating inflammation in rats.
The Changing Therapeutic Landscape of Metastatic Renal Cancer
Authors: Angulo Javier C. , Shapiro Oleg
Published: August 2019

The practising clinician treating a patient with metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC) faces a difficult task of choosing the most appropriate therapeutic regimen in a rapidly developing field with recommendations derived from clinical trials. NCCN guidelines for kidney cancer initiated a major shift in risk categorization and now include emerging treatments in the neoadjuvant setting. Updates of European Association of Urology clinical guidelines also include immune checkpoint inhibition as the first-line treatment. Randomized trials have demonstrated a survival benefit for ipilimumab and nivolumab combination in the intermediate and poor-risk group, while pembrolizumab plus axitinib combination is recommended not only for unfavorable disease but also for patients who fit the favorable risk category. Currently vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) targeted therapy based on tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI), sunitinib and pazopanib is the alternative regimen for patients who cannot tolerate immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). Cabozantinib remains a valid alternative option for the intermediate and high-risk group. For previously treated patients with TKI with progression, nivolumab, cabozantinib, axitinib, or the combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab appear the most plausible alternatives. For patients previously treated with ICI, any VEGF-targeted therapy, not previously used in combination with ICI therapy, seems to be a valid option, although the strength of this recommendation is weak. The indication for cytoreductive nephrectomy (CN) is also changing. Neoadjuvant systemic therapy does not add perioperative morbidity and can help identify non-responders, avoiding unnecessary surgery. However, the role of CN should be investigated under the light of new immunotherapeutic interventions. Also, markers of response to ICI need to be identified before the optimal selection of therapy could be determined for a particular patient.
Mechanisms of Chemotherapy Resistance in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer—How We Can Rise to the Challenge
Authors: Nedeljković Milica , Damjanović Ana
Published: August 2019

Triple-negative (TNBC) is the most lethal subtype of breast cancer owing to high heterogeneity, aggressive nature, and lack of treatment options. Chemotherapy remains the standard of care for TNBC treatment, but unfortunately, patients frequently develop resistance. Accordingly, in recent years, tremendous effort has been made into elucidating the mechanisms of TNBC chemoresistance with the goal of identifying new molecular targets. It has become evident that the development of TNBC chemoresistance is multifaceted and based on the elaborate interplay of the tumor microenvironment, drug efflux, cancer stem cells, and bulk tumor cells. Alterations of multiple signaling pathways govern these interactions. Moreover, TNBC’s high heterogeneity, highlighted in the existence of several molecular signatures, presents a significant obstacle to successful treatment. In the present, in-depth review, we explore the contribution of key mechanisms to TNBC chemoresistance as well as emerging strategies to overcome them. We discuss novel anti-tumor agents that target the components of these mechanisms and pay special attention to their current clinical development while emphasizing the challenges still ahead of successful TNBC management. The evidence presented in this review outlines the role of crucial pathways in TNBC survival following chemotherapy treatment and highlights the importance of using combinatorial drug strategies and incorporating biomarkers in clinical studies.
Search for Global Maxima in Multimodal Functions by Applying Numerical Optimization Algorithms: A Comparison between Golden Section and Simulated Annealing
Authors: Guillot Jordan , Restrepo-Leal Diego , Robles-Algarín Carlos , Oliveros Ingrid
Published: August 2019

In the field of engineering when a situation is not resolved analytically, efforts are made to develop methods that approximate a possible solution. These efforts have originated the numerical methods known at present, which allow formulating mathematical problems that can be solved using logical and arithmetic operations. This paper presents a comparison between the numerical optimization algorithms golden section search and simulated annealing, which are tested in four different scenarios. These scenarios are functions implemented with a feedforward neural network, which emulate a partial shading behavior in photovoltaic modules with local and global maxima. The presence of the local maxima makes it difficult to track the maximum power point, necessary to obtain the highest possible performance of the photovoltaic module. The programming of the algorithms was performed in C language. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithms to find global maxima. However, the golden section search method showed a better performance in terms of percentage of error, computation time and number of iterations, except in test scenario number three, where a better percentage of error was obtained with the simulated annealing algorithm for a computational temperature of 1000.
Increased Peatland Nutrient Availability Following the Fort McMurray Horse River Wildfire
Authors: van Beest Christine , Petrone Richard , Nwaishi Felix , Waddington James Michael , Macrae Merrin
Published: August 2019

Northern peatlands are experiencing increased wildfire disturbance, threatening peatland biogeochemical function and ability to remain major stores of carbon (C) and macronutrients (nitrogen—N, and phosphorus—P). The impacts of climate change-driven drying on peatland nutrient dynamics have been explored previously; however, the impacts of wildfire on nutrient dynamics have not been examined when comparing burned and unburned areas in a post-fire fen. This study assessed the impact of wildfire on N and P bioavailability, change in CNP stoichiometric balance and feedback on plant nutrient limitation patterns in a fen peatland, one-year post-wildfire, by comparing Burned and Unburned areas. Water extractable P increased up to 200 times in shallow leachate, 125 times in groundwater and 5 times in peat. Surface ash leachate had increased concentrations in Ammonium (NH4+) and Nitrate (NO3−), and through groundwater mobility, increased extractable N concentrations were observed in peat throughout the entire fen. The net mineralization of N and P were minimal at the Burned areas relative to Unburned areas. Fire affected plant nutrient limitation patterns, switching from dominantly N-limited to NP co-limited and P-limitation in moss and vascular species respectively. The top 20 cm of the Burned area C concentrations was higher relative to the Unburned area, with increased CN and CP ratios also being found in the Burned area. These findings suggest that the long-term effects of elevated C, N, and P concentrations on plant productivity and decomposition must be re-evaluated for fire disturbance to understand the resiliency of peatland biogeochemistry post-wildfire.
Image Encryption Scheme with Compressed Sensing Based on New Three-Dimensional Chaotic System
Authors: Xie Yaqin , Yu Jiayin , Guo Shiyu , Ding Qun , Wang Erfu
Published: August 2019

In this paper, a new three-dimensional chaotic system is proposed for image encryption. The core of the encryption algorithm is the combination of chaotic system and compressed sensing, which can complete image encryption and compression at the same time. The Lyapunov exponent, bifurcation diagram and complexity of the new three-dimensional chaotic system are analyzed. The performance analysis shows that the chaotic system has two positive Lyapunov exponents and high complexity. In the encryption scheme, a new chaotic system is used as the measurement matrix for compressed sensing, and Arnold is used to scrambling the image further. The proposed method has better reconfiguration ability in the compressible range of the algorithm compared with other methods. The experimental results show that the proposed encryption scheme has good encryption effect and image compression capability.
Thermodynamic, Non-Extensive, or Turbulent Quasi-Equilibrium for the Space Plasma Environment
Authors: Yoon Peter H.
Published: August 2019

The Boltzmann–Gibbs (BG) entropy has been used in a wide variety of problems for more than a century. It is well known that BG entropy is additive and extensive, but for certain systems such as those dictated by long-range interactions, it is speculated that the entropy must be non-additive and non-extensive. Tsallis entropy possesses these characteristics, and is parameterized by a variable q ( q = 1 being the classic BG limit), but unless q is determined from microscopic dynamics, the model remains a phenomenological tool. To this day, very few examples have emerged in which q can be computed from first principles. This paper shows that the space plasma environment, which is governed by long-range collective electromagnetic interaction, represents a perfect example for which the q parameter can be computed from microphysics. By taking the electron velocity distribution function measured in the heliospheric environment into account, and considering them to be in a quasi-equilibrium state with electrostatic turbulence known as quasi-thermal noise, it is shown that the value corresponding to q = 9 / 13 = 0 . 6923 , or alternatively q = 5 / 9 = 0 . 5556 , may be deduced. This prediction is verified against observations made by spacecraft, and it is shown to be in excellent agreement. This paper constitutes an overview of recent developments regarding the non-equilibrium statistical mechanical approach to understanding the non-extensive nature of space plasma, although some recent new developments are also discussed.
Quantum Contract Signing with Entangled Pairs
Authors: Yadav Preeti , Mateus Paulo , Paunković Nikola , Souto André
Published: August 2019

We present a quantum scheme for signing contracts between two clients (Alice and Bob) using entangled states and the services of a third trusted party (Trent). The trusted party is only contacted for the initialization of the protocol, and possibly at the end, to verify clients’ honesty and deliver signed certificates. The protocol is fair, i.e., the probability that a client, say Bob, can obtain a signed copy of the contract, while Alice cannot, can be made arbitrarily small, and scales as N − 1 / 2 , where 4 N is the total number of rounds (communications between the two clients) of the protocol. Thus, the protocol is optimistic, as cheating is not successful, and the clients rarely have to contact Trent to confirm their honesty by delivering the actual signed certificates of the contract. Unlike the previous protocol (Paunković et al., Phys. Rev. A 84, 062331 (2011)), in the present proposal, a single client can obtain the signed contract alone, without the need for the other client’s presence. When first contacting Trent, the clients do not have to agree upon a definitive contract. Moreover, even upon terminating the protocol, the clients do not reveal the actual contract to Trent. Finally, the protocol is based on the laws of physics, rather than on mathematical conjectures and the exchange of a large number of signed authenticated messages during the actual contract signing process. Therefore, it is abuse-free, as Alice and Bob cannot prove they are involved in the contract signing process.
Analysis of the Safety of Functioning Gas Pipelines in Terms of the Occurrence of Failures
Authors: Urbanik Marek , Tchórzewska-Cieślak Barbara , Pietrucha-Urbanik Katarzyna
Published: August 2019

The development of appropriate methods by which to assess the functioning of gas pipelines helps limits the consequences of disasters, in that way protecting users better. Assessment methods of this kind are presented in this paper, which advocates the integrated risk area identification method. The risk taken account of is understood to be a function of the probability or frequency of occurrence of undesirable events, and comes with parameters defining the consequences of these events, should they arise, in terms of their magnitude. The level of system vulnerability to events of these types is a factor considered, and the risk calculation is of a kind that encompasses both quantitative and qualitative aspects. The approach taken is regarded as a quick and simple risk-assessment tool applicable to the daily operation of gas networks for a gas company. Specifically, the framework of the research carried out extends to: (1) Estimation of the average cost of failure of gas pipelines in the case of an urban agglomeration in SE Poland; (2) assessment of the level of integrated risk facing the gas-supply subsystem, by reference to the risk area identification method; (3) failure forecasting by way of regressions with delay; and (4) conclusions regarding failure risk assessment in a gas-supply network, as well as a consideration of prospects. The framework referred here, thus constitutes the basis for both analysis and assessment of the safety of a gas-supply system.
The Oil Market Reactions to OPEC’s Announcements
Authors: Liu Yue , Dong Hao , Failler Pierre
Published: August 2019

Because of the crucial implications of the market power of OPEC, the aim of this paper was to investigate the oil asymmetric market reactions, such as the price and risk reactions, to OPEC’s announcements. Specifically, this paper first explored the oil price reactions to OPEC’s announcements and their heterogeneity to depict the directional role of OPEC based on event study methodology. Furthermore, this paper analyzed the oil risk reactions in the framework of a linear model. Our findings reveal several key results. The oil price reactions to OPEC production decisions behave quite heterogeneously in three kinds of decisions. Specifically, the reaction to announcements of a production increase shows an invert “U” shape, whereas there is a linear effect of cut announcements. Otherwise, when a maintain decision is announced, the oil prices have no obvious change over the sample period. Additionally, the oil risk reactions to OPEC’s announcements are heavily related to the interaction item between OPEC decisions and its production over full sample periods. Furthermore, OPEC’s role in promoting stability in crude oil markets by changing its production shows a heterogeneous condition after global financial crisis.
Parameter Analysis and Optimization of Class-E Power Amplifier Used in Wireless Power Transfer System
Authors: Wen Feng , Li Rui
Published: August 2019

In this paper, a steady-state matrix analysis method is introduced to analyze the output characteristics of the class-E power amplifier used in a wireless power transfer (WPT) system, which takes the inductance resistance, on-resistance and leakage current of metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) into account so that the results can be closer to the actual value. On this basis, the parameters of the class-E power amplifier are optimized, and the output power is improved under the premise of keeping the efficiency unchanged. Finally, the output characteristics of the amplifier before and after optimization are compared by an experiment, while the B-field strength around the WPT system is studied through simulation. The experimental results verify the correctness and feasibility of the optimization method based on steady-state matrix analysis.
Data-Driven Model-Free Adaptive Control Based on Error Minimized Regularized Online Sequential Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Zhang Xiaofei , Ma Hongbin
Published: August 2019

Model-free adaptive control (MFAC) builds a virtual equivalent dynamic linearized model by using a dynamic linearization technique. The virtual equivalent dynamic linearized model contains some time-varying parameters, time-varying parameters usually include high nonlinearity implicitly, and the performance will degrade if the nonlinearity of these time-varying parameters is high. In this paper, first, a novel learning algorithm named error minimized regularized online sequential extreme learning machine (EMREOS-ELM) is investigated. Second, EMREOS-ELM is used to estimate those time-varying parameters, a model-free adaptive control method based on EMREOS-ELM is introduced for single-input single-output unknown discrete-time nonlinear systems, and the stability of the proposed algorithm is guaranteed by theoretical analysis. Finally, the proposed algorithm is compared with five other control algorithms for an unknown discrete-time nonlinear system, and simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can improve the performance of control systems.
Generating Negative Air Ions in Construction Waterscapes at a Garden Scale
Authors: Wu Chen-Fa , Chu Tien-Yi , Chen Szu-Hung , Wu Sheng-Yao
Published: August 2019

High concentrations of negative air ions (NAIs) and low concentrations of positive air ions (PAI), along with a low monopole coefficient (PAI/NAI), are likely to provide physiological and psychological benefits to the humans. A water body produces NAIs through the Lenard effect. This concept can be applied in designing garden waterscapes in residential buildings to provide fresh and healthy air for urban residents. In this study, we conducted several experiments to assess the effectiveness of different waterscape designs in producing air ions. The results revealed that increasing waterfall tiers, slopes, impact points, widths, and heights increased the NAI concentrations and reduced the values of monopole coefficients, thus providing health benefits to humans. In particular, increasing waterfall tiers and slopes increased the NAI concentrations most substantially. Moreover, we established a composite waterscape and determined that it produced fewer NAIs along with a less favorable monopole coefficient compared with the data observed at the experimentally adjusted tiers and slopes. Therefore, we suggest that simple waterscapes with multiple waterfall tiers or steep waterfall slopes should be favored over complex waterscapes. Such simple designs can help construct a garden that provides health benefits.
Novel Locus Associated with Symmetrical Lupoid Onychodystrophy in the Bearded Collie
Authors: Gershony Liza C. , Belanger Janelle M. , Hytönen Marjo K. , Lohi Hannes , Oberbauer Anita M.
Published: August 2019

Symmetrical lupoid onychodystrophy (SLO) is characterized by inflammation of the nail bed and nail sloughing that causes affected dogs considerable pain. Disease etiology remains unclear, although an autoimmune component is suspected. A genome-wide association study on Bearded Collies revealed regions of association on canine chromosomes (CFA) 12 and 17. The large region of association on CFA12 likely consists of two smaller linked regions, both of which are also linked to the dog leukocyte antigen (DLA) class II genes. Dogs homozygous for the alternate allele at the top CFA12 SNP also carried two DLA class II risk haplotypes for SLO, and this locus explained most of the increased risk for disease seen throughout the CFA12 region of association. A stronger peak was seen on CFA17 when analysis was done solely on dogs that carried DLA class II risk haplotypes for SLO. The majority of SLO dogs carried a homozygous alternate genotype on CFA12 and at least one CFA17 risk haplotype. Our findings offer progress toward uncovering the genetic basis of SLO. While the contribution of the CFA17 region remains unclear, both CFA12 and CFA17 regions are significantly associated with SLO disease expression in the Bearded Collie and contain potential candidate genes for this disease.
Scaling Up Solutions to Toxic Contamination in Communities
Authors: Dearing James W.
Published: August 2019

In this special issue of IJERPH, we feature studies conducted by research translation and community engagement teams that are funded through the Superfund Research Program in the United States. These and other teams funded by this program demonstrate how environmental and health communication research can contribute to generalizable lessons about helping and empowering contaminated communities. These types of applied behavioral, social and communication projects are important because while much about our communities is unique and must be addressed on a case by case basis, other aspects of research translation and community engagement processes are potentially generalizable across sites and can thus be used to scale up solutions to toxic contamination to other communities and countries more rapidly than would otherwise occur.
Lifestyle Risk Factors and All-Cause and Cardiovascular Disease Mortality: Data from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging
Authors: Lee Inhwan , Kim Shinuk , Kang Hyunsik
Published: August 2019

This study examined the association between lifestyle risk factors and all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in 9945 Korea adults (56% women) aged 45 years and older. Smoking, heavy alcohol intake, underweight or obesity, physical inactivity, and unintentional weight loss (UWL) were included as risk factors. During 9.6 ± 2.0 years of follow-up, there were a total of 1530 cases of death from all causes, of which 365 cases were from CVD. Compared to a zero risk factor (hazard ratio, HR = 1), the crude HR of all-cause mortality was 1.864 (95% CI, 1.509–2.303) for one risk factor, 2.487 (95% confidence interval, CI, 2.013–3.072) for two risk factors, and 3.524 (95% CI, 2.803–4.432) for three or more risk factors. Compared to a zero risk factor (HR = 1), the crude HR of CVD mortality was 2.566 (95% CI, 1.550–4.250) for one risk factor, 3.655 (95% CI, 2.211–6.043) for two risk factor, and 5.416 (95% CI, 3.185–9.208) for three or more risk factors. The HRs for all-cause and CVD mortality remained significant even after adjustments for measured covariates. The current findings showed that five lifestyle risk factors, including smoking, at-risk alcohol consumption, underweight/obesity, physical inactivity, and UWL, were significantly associated with an increased risk of all-cause and CVD mortality in Korean adults.
The Ecological Water Demand of Schizothorax in Tibet Based on Habitat Area and Connectivity
Authors: Zhou Zili , Deng Yun , Li Yong , An Ruidong
Published: August 2019

Water resource regulation is convenient for humans, but also changes river hydrology and affects aquatic ecosystems. This study combined a field investigation and two-dimensional hydrodynamic model (MIKE21) to simulate the hydrodynamic distribution from 1 March to 30 April of 2008–2013 and establish the HDI (habitat depth suitability index) and HVI (habitat velocity suitability index) based on static hydraulic conditions at typical points. Additionally, by using MIKE21 to simulate the hydraulic state in the study area under 20 flow conditions from 530–1060 m3/s, and combining these states with the HCI (habitat cover type suitability index), HDI, and HVI, we simulated the WUA (weighted usable area) and habitat connectivity under different runoff regulation scenarios to study the water requirements of Schizothorax during the spawning period in the Yanni wetland. The results showed the following: (1) the suitable cover type was cobble and rock substrate, with nearby sandy land; furthermore, the suitable water depth was 0.5–1.5 m, and the suitable velocity was 0.1–0.9 m/s. (2) Using the proximity index to analyse the connectivity of suitable habitats, the range of ecological discharge determined by the WUA and connectivity was 424–1060 m/s. (3) Habitat quality was divided into three levels to detail the flow demand further. When the flow was 424–530 m3/s or 848–1060 m3/s, the WUA and connectivity generally met the requirements under natural conditions. When the flow was 530–636 m3/s or 742–848 m3/s, the WUA and connectivity were in a good state. When the flow was 636–742 m3/s, the WUA and connectivity were in the best state. This study complements existing research on the suitability of Schizothorax habitat in Tibet, and introduces the connectivity index to enrich the method for calculating ecological water demand, providing a reference for resource regulation and the protection of aquatic organisms.
Continuity of Care, Follow-Up Care, and Outcomes among Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Chen Yun-Yi , Hsieh Cheng-I , Chung Kuo-Piao
Published: August 2019

This retrospective cohort study examined the effects of care continuity on the utilization of follow-up services and outcome of breast cancer patients (stages I–III) in the post-treatment phase of care. Propensity score matching and generalized estimation equations were used in the analysis of data obtained from national longitudinal databases. The continuity of care index (COCI) was calculated separately for primary care physicians (PCP) and oncologists. Our results revealed that breast cancer survivors with a higher oncology COCI were more likely than those with a lower oncology COCI to use mammography or breast ultrasound during the follow-up period (OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.19–1.32; OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.06–1.18; respectively). In terms of health outcomes, a higher oncology COCI was associated with a lower likelihood of hospitalization (OR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.71–0.85) and emergency department use (OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.82–0.95). A higher PCP COCI was also associated with a lower likelihood of hospitalization (OR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.70–0.85) and emergency department use (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.68–0.82). Overall, this study determined that ambulatory care continuity is positively associated with the likelihood of using recommended follow-up care services and negatively associated with adverse health events among breast cancer survivors.
Research on Total Factor Productivity and Influential Factors of the Regional Water–Energy–Food Nexus: A Case Study on Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Chen Junfei , Ding Tonghui , Wang Huimin , Yu Xiaoya
Published: August 2019

With the supply of water, energy and food facing severe challenges, there has been an increased recognition of the importance of studying the regional water–energy–food nexus. In this paper, Inner Mongolia, including 12 cities in China, was selected as a research case. A super-efficiency slack based measure (SBM) model that considered the undesirable outputs was adopted to calculate the regional total factor productivity (TFP) and the Malmquist–Luenberger index was used to investigate the change trend of the TFP from 2007 to 2016 based on understanding the water–energy–food nexus. Finally, influential factors of the TFP were explored by Tobit regression. The results show that the 12 Inner Mongolia cities are divided into higher, moderate and lower efficiency zones. The higher efficiency zone includes Ordos, Hohhot, Xing’an, and Tongliao, and the lower efficiency zone includes Chifeng, Xilin Gol, Baynnur, Wuhai and Alxa. There is a serious difference in TFP between Inner Mongolia cities. During the study period, the TFP of the water–energy–food nexus in Inner Mongolia cities shows a rising trend, which is mainly driven by the growth of technical progress change. However, the average ML values of the lower and moderate efficiency zones were inferior to the higher efficiency zone in six of the ten years, so the difference between Inner Mongolia cities is growing. According to the Tobit regression, the mechanization level and degree of opening up have positive effects on the TFP, while enterprise scale and the output of the third industry have negative effects on the TFP. Government support does not have any significant impact on the TFP. Finally, suggestions were put forward to improve the TFP of the water–energy–food nexus in Inner Mongolia cities.
Epidemiological Characteristics and Spatiotemporal Analysis of Mumps from 2004 to 2018 in Chongqing, China
Authors: Zhu Hua , Zhao Han , Ou Rong , Xiang Haiyan , Hu Ling , Jing Dan , Sharma Manoj , Ye Mengliang
Published: August 2019

Mumps vaccines have been widely used in recent years, but frequent mumps outbreaks and re-emergence around the world have not stopped. Mumps still remains a serious public health problem with a high incidence in China. The status of mumps epidemics in Chongqing, the largest city in China, is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological and spatiotemporal characteristics of mumps and to provide a scientific basis for formulating effective strategies for its prevention and control. Surveillance data of mumps in Chongqing from January 2004 to December 2018 were collected from the National Notifiable Diseases Reporting Information System. A descriptive analysis was conducted to understand the epidemiological characteristics. Hot spots and spatiotemporal patterns were identified by performing a spatial autocorrelation analysis, a purely spatial scan, and a spatiotemporal scan at the county level based on geographic information systems. A total of 895,429 mumps cases were reported in Chongqing, with an annual average incidence of 36.34 per 100,000. The yearly incidence of mumps decreased markedly from 2004 to 2007, increased sharply from 2007 to 2011, and then tapered with a two-year cyclical peak after 2011. The onset of mumps showed an obvious bimodal seasonal distribution, with a higher peak of mumps observed from April to July of each year. Children aged 5–9 years old, males, and students were the prime high-risk groups. The spatial distribution of mumps did not exhibit significant global autocorrelation in most years, but local indicators of spatial autocorrelation and scan statistics detected high-incidence clusters which were mainly located in the midwestern, western, northeastern, and southwestern parts of Chongqing. The aggregation time frame detected by the purely temporal scan was between March 2009 and July 2013. The incidence of mumps in Chongqing from 2004 to 2018 featured significant spatial heterogeneity and spatiotemporal clustering. The findings of this study might assist public health agencies to develop real-time space monitoring, especially in the clustering regions and at peak periods; to improve immunization strategies for long-term prevention; and to deploy health resources reasonably.
Maternal and Infant Health in Abu Dhabi: Insights from Key Informant Interviews
Authors: Gardner Hazel , Green Katherine , Gardner Andrew , Geddes Donna
Published: August 2019

Consequent upon rapid development in Abu Dhabi, there has been a rise in chronic disease, the susceptibilities to which are influenced by events occurring in early life. Hence, maternal and infant health are key areas in public health policy. Following a study of maternal and infant health in a cohort of mothers in Abu Dhabi between 2002 and 2004, seven key informant interviews were undertaken to elucidate the study findings through the impressions of Emirati women in positions within the healthcare area—including ministries, hospitals, and universities in Abu Dhabi. Semi-structured interviews were based on five key questions that covered the cultural responsiveness of the maternal health services—breastfeeding, health education, and physical and recreational activity. The responses were analysed using a thematic content technique and indicated that the status of women, cultural beliefs and practices, limited health knowledge, and language differences between the local population, healthcare providers, and health promoting materials were important themes. The study highlighted areas for future research and policy, including the communication gaps between healthcare professionals and women, the influences of advertising and the media on health issues, heath education, and ways to increase women’s participation in physical exercise. It is vital to consider non-medical determinants of health alongside biomedical determinants, to help develop culturally appropriate health strategies for this population.
The Adipokine Network in Rheumatic Joint Diseases
Authors: Carrión Mar , Frommer Klaus W. , Pérez-García Selene , Müller-Ladner Ulf , Gomariz Rosa P. , Neumann Elena
Published: August 2019

Rheumatic diseases encompass a diverse group of chronic disorders that commonly affect musculoskeletal structures. Osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are the two most common, leading to considerable functional limitations and irreversible disability when patients are unsuccessfully treated. Although the specific causes of many rheumatic conditions remain unknown, it is generally accepted that immune mechanisms and/or uncontrolled inflammatory responses are involved in their etiology and symptomatology. In this regard, the bidirectional communication between neuroendocrine and immune system has been demonstrated to provide a homeostatic network that is involved in several pathological conditions. Adipokines represent a wide variety of bioactive, immune and inflammatory mediators mainly released by adipocytes that act as signal molecules in the neuroendocrine-immune interactions. Adipokines can also be synthesized by synoviocytes, osteoclasts, osteoblasts, chondrocytes and inflammatory cells in the joint microenvironment, showing potent modulatory properties on different effector cells in OA and RA pathogenesis. Effects of adiponectin, leptin, resistin and visfatin on local and systemic inflammation are broadly described. However, more recently, other adipokines, such as progranulin, chemerin, lipocalin-2, vaspin, omentin-1 and nesfatin, have been recognized to display immunomodulatory actions in rheumatic diseases. This review highlights the latest relevant findings on the role of the adipokine network in the pathophysiology of OA and RA.
Chk1 Inhibitor MK-8776 Restores the Sensitivity of Chemotherapeutics in P-glycoprotein Overexpressing Cancer Cells
Authors: Cui Qingbin , Cai Chao-Yun , Wang Jing-Quan , Zhang Shuang , Gupta Pranav , Ji Ning , Yang Yuqi , Dong Xingduo , Yang Dong-Hua , Chen Zhe-Sheng
Published: August 2019

P-glycoprotein (P-gp), which is encoded by the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter subfamily B member 1 (ABCB1) gene, is one of the most pivotal ABC transporters that transport its substrates across the cell membrane. Its overexpression is one of the confirmed causes of multidrug resistance (MDR), which results in the failure of cancer treatment. Here, we report that checkpoint kinase (Chk) 1 inhibitor MK-8776, a drug candidate in clinical trial, can restore the sensitivity of chemotherapeutics that are substrates of P-gp in KB-C2, SW620/Ad300 cells and human embryonic kidney (HEK)293/ABCB1 cells that overexpress P-gp. MK-8776 remarkably enhanced the cellular [3H]-paclitaxel accumulation and suppressed the efflux function of P-gp without reducing its expression and affecting its cellular localization in cancer cells. Furthermore, MK-8776 (0–40 μM) stimulated the activity of ATPase in P-gp, which was 4.1-fold greater than the control. In addition, MK-8776 formed a cation–π bond and π–π interaction with key residues of the substrate-binding site in P-gp, as indicated by computer-aided molecular docking study. Our study indicated that MK-8776 may significantly enhance the sensitivity of chemotherapeutics that are substrates of P-gp, providing important information for its application in the reversal of MDR.
Chondroitin-Sulfate-A-Coated Magnetite Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization and Testing to Predict Their Colloidal Behavior in Biological Milieu
Authors: Tóth Ildikó Y. , Illés Erzsébet , Szekeres Márta , Zupkó István , Turcu Rodica , Tombácz Etelka
Published: August 2019

Biopolymer coated magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) are suitable to fabricate biocompatible magnetic fluid (MF). Their comprehensive characterization, however, is a necessary step to assess whether bioapplications are feasible before expensive in vitro and in vivo tests. The MNPs were prepared by co-precipitation, and after careful purification, they were coated by chondroitin-sulfate-A (CSA). CSA exhibits high affinity adsorption to MNPs (H-type isotherm). We could only make stable MF of CSA coated MNPs (CSA@MNPs) under accurate conditions. The CSA@MNP was characterized by TEM (size ~10 nm) and VSM (saturation magnetization ~57 emu/g). Inner-sphere metal–carboxylate complex formation between CSA and MNP was proved by FTIR-ATR and XPS. Electrophoresis and DLS measurements show that the CSA@MNPs at CSA-loading > 0.2 mmol/g were stable at pH > 4. The salt tolerance of the product improved up to ~0.5 M NaCl at pH~6.3. Under favorable redox conditions, no iron leaching from the magnetic core was detected by ICP measurements. Thus, the characterization predicts both chemical and colloidal stability of CSA@MNPs in biological milieu regarding its pH and salt concentration. MTT assays showed no significant impact of CSA@MNP on the proliferation of A431 cells. According to these facts, the CSA@MNPs have a great potential in biocompatible MF preparation for medical applications.
Alcohol-Induced Mesenteric Lymphatic Permeability: Link to Immunometabolic Modulation of Perilymphatic Adipose Tissue
Authors: Souza-Smith Flavia M. , Simon Liz , Siggins Robert , Molina Patricia E.
Published: August 2019

Alcohol exerts significant immunomodulatory effects on innate and adaptive immune responses, impairing host defense against infections. Gut-mucosa-derived dendritic cells (DCs) traffic to mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) through mesenteric lymphatic vessels (MLVs), contributing to intestinal antigen homeostasis. Previously, we demonstrated that acute alcohol administration to male rats induces MLV hyperpermeability resulting in perilymphatic adipose tissue (PLAT) inflammation and insulin signaling dysregulation. We hypothesized that alcohol-induced MLV hyperpermeability can lead to DC leakage to PLAT. DCs promote adipose tissue regulatory T cell (Treg) expansion, and this has been proposed as a mechanism underlying age-associated insulin resistance (IR). The aim of this study was to determine whether chronic alcohol consumption promotes DC leakage to PLAT and results in metabolic dysregulation. Male rats received a Lieber–DeCarli liquid diet containing 36% of calories from alcohol for 10 weeks. Time-matched control animals were pair-fed. PLAT, MLNs, and peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) were isolated for flow cytometry analyses. PLAT explants were used for determinations of insulin-induced glucose uptake. Chronic alcohol consumption decreased MLN CD4/CD8 ratio and Treg frequency in PBLs. Alcohol increased the frequency of DCs, CD4 T cells, and Tregs in PLAT. Lastly, alcohol decreased insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in PLAT. Collectively, these findings suggest that alcohol-induced immune cell deviation from the gut–MLN pathway is associated with PLAT immunometabolic dysregulation. Whether this immune cell deviation impacts induction of mucosal immunity warrants further investigation.
Transcriptome Profiling of Placenta through Pregnancy Reveals Dysregulation of Bile Acids Transport and Detoxification Function
Authors: Wang Peng , Song Yumo , Zhong Heju , Lin Sen , Zhang Xiaoling , Li Jian , Che Lianqiang , Feng Bin , Lin Yan , Xu Shengyu , Zhuo Yong , Wu De , Burrin Douglas G. , Fang Zhengfeng
Published: August 2019

Placenta performs the function of several adult organs for the fetus during intrauterine life. Because of the dramatic physiological and metabolic changes during pregnancy and the strong association between maternal metabolism and placental function, the possibility that variation in gene expression patterns during pregnancy might be linked to fetal health warrants investigation. Here, next-generation RNA sequencing was used to investigate the expression profile, including mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) of placentas on day 60 of gestation (G60), day 90 of gestation (G90), and on the farrowing day (L0) in pregnant swine. Bioinformatics analysis of differentially expressed mRNAs and lncRNAs consistently showed dysregulation of bile acids transport and detoxification as pregnancy progress. We found the differentially expressed mRNAs, particularly bile salt export pump (ABCB11), organic anion-transporting polypeptide 1A2 (OATP1A2), carbonic anhydrase II (CA2), Na+-HCO3− cotransporter (NBC1), and hydroxysteroid sulfotransferases (SULT2A1) play an important role in bile acids transport and sulfation in placentas during pregnancy. We also found the potential regulation role of ALDBSSCG0000000220 and XLOC_1301271 on placental SULT2A1. These findings have uncovered a previously unclear function and its genetic basis for bile acids metabolism in developing placentas and have important implications for exploring the potential physiological and pathological pathway to improve fetal outcomes.