bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inequities in the global representation of sites participating in large, multicentre dialysis trials: a systematic review
Authors: Smyth Brendan , Trongtrakul Konlawij , Haber Anna , Talbot B , Hawley Carmel , Perkovic Vlado , Woodward Mark , Jardine Meg
Published: November 2019

Background

The number of dialysis recipients is growing worldwide, making it important that the full range of patient populations are represented in randomised trials. As trial recruitment has not previously been examined at a global level, we compared the location of trial sites recruiting to large multicentre randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in dialysis to the global distribution of dialysis recipients.

Methods

A systematic review (2007–2016) was conducted to identify RCTs enrolling ≥100 dialysis patients from ≥2 sites. The number and location of sites were extracted from manuscripts and trial registration. The proportion of sites from each International Society of Nephrology global region was divided by the proportion of the global dialysis population in that region to determine a ‘representation index’ (RI), where 1.0 indicated that the number of sites was proportionate to the number of dialysis recipients in that region.

Results

We identified 180 RCTs, recruiting from 6172 sites in 54 countries. Eastern and Central Europe had the highest RI at 2.45. Other well-represented regions were Western Europe (2.20), North America (2.06), and Russia and newly independent states (1.36). Africa had the lowest RI at 0.05, followed by South Asia (0.08), Latin America (0.15), Middle East (0.27), North-East Asia (0.41), and South-East Asia and Oceania (0.62).

Conclusions

Regions of the world with growing numbers of dialysis patients are poorly represented in large, multicentre RCTs. Efforts to boost trial participation in these regions are required to ensure that generalisable and relevant information is available to local healthcare providers.
Epidemiology of venous thromboembolism in people with active tuberculosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Awana Philippe Armel , Danwang Celestin , Tochie Joel Noutakdie , Bigna Jean Joel
Published: November 2019

Introduction

In recent years, a hypothesis has been raised that people with tuberculosis are at risk for developing venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, much remains to be understood about the interplay between VTE and tuberculosis. Therefore, through a global systematic review and meta-analysis, the current study aims at investigating the association between exposure to active tuberculosis and risk of VTE, and determining the prevalence and incidence of VTE in people with active tuberculosis.

Methods and design

We will include cohort studies, case–control and cross-sectional studies performed among adults (>15 years) with active tuberculosis. EMBASE, Medline, Global Index Medicus and Web of Knowledge will be searched for relevant records published until 31 August 2019, without any language restriction. The review will be reported according to the Meta-analysis Of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. After screening of titles and abstracts, study selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment; we shall assess the studies individually for clinical and statistical heterogeneity. Random-effect meta-analysis will be used to pool studies judged to be clinically homogenous. The Egger’s test and visual inspection of funnel plots will be used to assess publication bias. Results will be presented by country and region.

Ethics and dissemination

Since primary data are not collected in this study, ethical approval is not required. This review is expected to provide relevant data on the epidemiology of VTE in people with tuberculosis. The final report will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019130347.
Mapping global evidence on strategies and interventions in neurotrauma and road traffic collisions prevention: a scoping review protocol
Authors: M Selveindran Santhani , Khan Muhammad Mukhtar , Simadibrata Daniel Martin , Hutchinson Peter J A , Brayne Carol , Hill Christine , Kolias Angelos , Joannides Alexis J , Servadei Franco , Rubiano Andres M , Shabani Hamisi K
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Neurotrauma is an important global health problem. This ‘silent epidemic’ is a major cause of death and disability in adolescents and young adults, with significant societal and economic impacts. Globally, the largest cause of neurotrauma is road traffic collisions (RTCs). Neurotrauma and RTCs are largely preventable, and many preventative strategies and interventions have been established and implemented over the last decades, particularly in high-income countries. However, these approaches may not be applicable globally, due to variations in environment, resources, population, culture and infrastructure. This paper outlines the protocol for a scoping review, which seeks to map the evidence on strategies and interventions in neurotrauma and RTCs prevention globally, and to ascertain contextual factors that influence their implementation.

Methods and analysis

This scoping review will use the established methodology by Arksey and O’Malley. Eligible studies will be identified from five electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Global Health/EBSCO and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews) and grey literature sources. We will also carry out bibliographical and citation searching of included studies. A two-stage selection process, which involves screening of titles and abstracts, followed by full-text screening, will be used to determine eligible studies which will undergo data abstraction using a customised, piloted data extraction sheet. The extracted data will be presented using evidence mapping and a narrative summary.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for this scoping review, which is the first step in a multiphase public health research project on the global prevention of neurotrauma. The final review will be submitted for publication to a scientific journal, and results will be presented at appropriate conferences, workshops and meetings. Protocol registered on 5 April 2019 with Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/s4zk3/).
Scoping review protocol: is there a role for physical activity interventions in the treatment pathway of bladder cancer?
Authors: Mehrotra Sneha , Rowland Megan , Zhang Hanyu , Russell Beth , Fox Louis , Beyer Katharina , Rammant Elke , Peat Nicola , Van Hemelrijck Mieke , Bosco Cecilia
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Patients with bladder cancer (BC) have been found to have worse experiences than those with other cancers which may partly be due to impact on quality of life. Currently, little is known about the impact of physical activity (PA) on BC outcomes. This scoping review aims to identify what interventions are available, their reported efficacy and feasibility, and a description of potential underlying biological mechanisms for their effects.

Methods and analysis

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Scoping Review (ScR) guidelines and the Levac methodology framework will be followed/used. Electronic databases will be searched (MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, PsycInfo and Health, OpenGray). Two independent reviewers will screen all abstracts and titles and during a second stage and full-text publications for inclusion. All studies describing PA (as an existing lifestyle or as part of an intervention programme) during BC management will be included. Study characteristics will be recorded; qualitative data will be extracted and evaluated using the Donabedian framework. Quantitative data will be extracted and summarised. A further consultation step will be carried out with patients, their family members and healthcare professionals.

Ethics and dissemination

Results will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication. Through the consultation step, we will ensure that findings will reach a wide audience and recommendations can be made for future development of PA interventions for patients with BC. Data used will be from publicly available secondary sources, and the consultation step will be carried out as part of patient and public involvement so this study does not require ethical review.
Epidemiology of adolescent trauma in England: a review of TARN data 2008–2017
Authors: Roberts Zoe , Collins Julie-Ann , James David , Bouamra Omar , Young Mike , Lyttle Mark D , Roland Damian , Mullen Stephen
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Trauma contributes significantly to adolescent morbidity and mortality. We aimed to ascertain the epidemiology of adolescent trauma to inform prevention strategies.

Methods

Data were abstracted from TARN (Trauma Audit Research Network) from English sites over a 10-year period (2008–2017). Adolescents were defined as 10–24 completed years. Descriptive statistical analysis was used in this study.

Results

There were 40 680 recorded cases of adolescent trauma. The majority were male (77.3%) and aged 16–24 years old (80.5%). There was a 2.6-fold increase during the study time frame (p<0.0001) in the total annual number of cases reported to TARN. To account for increasing hospital participation, the unit trauma cases per hospital per year was used, noting an increasing trend (p=0.048). Road traffic collision (RTC) was the leading cause of adolescent trauma (50.3%). Pedestrians (41.2%) and cyclists (32.6%) were more prevalent in the 10–15 year group, while drivers (22.9%) and passengers (17.8%) predominated in the 16–24 year group. Intentional injury was reported in 20.7% (alleged assault in 17.2% and suspected self-harm in 3.5%). This was more prevalent in the 16–24 year group. The proportion of trauma reported due to violence has increased with stabbings increasing from 6.9% in 2008 to 10.2% in 2017 (p<0.0001). Evidence of alcohol or drug use was recorded in 20.1% of cases. There was an increase in the number treated in major trauma centres (45.7% 2008 vs 63.5% 2017, p<0.0001). Trauma was more likely to occur between 08:00 and 00:00, at weekends and between April and October. Overall mortality rate was 4.1%. Those with a known psychiatric diagnosis had a higher mortality (6.3% vs 4.4%, p<0.001).

Conclusions

RTCs and intentional injuries are leading aetiologies. Healthcare professionals and policy-makers need to prioritise national preventative public health measures and early interventions to reduce the incidence of trauma in this vulnerable age group.
Preliminary in vitro angiographic comparison of the flow diversion behavior of Evolve and Pipeline devices
Authors: Sadasivan Chander , Fiorella David
Published: November 2019

Background and purpose

Flow diverters are increasingly used to treat a broad category of cerebral aneurysms. We conducted an in vitro study to angiographically compare the flow diversion effect of Surpass Evolve from Stryker Neurovascular with the Pipeline Shield Embolization Device from Medtronic Neurovascular.

Methods

Three copies each of three carotid aneurysm geometries were manufactured from silicone. Evolve and Pipeline flow diverters were deployed in one copy of each geometry; the third copy was used as Control. High-speed angiography was acquired under pulsatile flow in each replica, contrast concentration-time curves within the aneurysms were recorded, and the curves were quantified with six parameters. The parameters were statistically evaluated to compare the flow diversion effect of both devices.

Results

The Evolve showed greater flow diversion trends in almost all intra-geometry comparisons than the Pipeline. When aggregated over the three geometries, the Evolve was statistically significantly better than the Pipeline in four of the six parameters, and about the same or better (not statistically significant) than the Pipeline in the other two parameters.

Conclusions

The Evolve device demonstrated greater in vitro flow diversion effects than Pipeline. Comparative efficacy of the devices will need to be adjudicated based on clinical outcomes.
Persistent contamination ofSalmonella,Campylobacter,Escherichia coli, andStaphylococcus aureusat a broiler farm in New Zealand
Authors: Castañeda-Gulla Kristine , Sattlegger Evelyn , Mutukumira Anthony N.
Published: November 2019

Intensive poultry production due to public demand raises the risk of contamination, creating potential foodborne hazards to consumers. The prevalence and microbial load of the pathogens Campylobacter, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli was determined by standard methods at the farm level. After disinfection, swab samples collected from wall crevices, drinkers, and vents were heavily contaminated, as accumulated organic matter and dust likely protected the pathogens from the disinfectants used. The annex floor also showed high microbial concentrations, suggesting the introduction of pathogens from external environments, highlighting the importance of erecting hygiene barriers at the entrance of the main shed. Therefore, pathogen control measures and proper application of disinfectants are recommended as intervention strategies. Additionally, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was evaluated as a quantification tool. qPCR showed limitations with samples containing low microbial counts because of the low detection limit of the method. Thus, bacterial pre-enrichment of test samples may be necessary to improve the detection of pathogens by qPCR.
Experimental study of the $ \gamma p \rightarrow K^{0}\Sigma^{+}$, $ \gamma n \rightarrow K^{0} \Lambda$, and $ \gamma n \rightarrow K^{0} \Sigma^{0}$ reactions at the Mainz Microtron
Authors: Akondi C. S. , Bantawa K. , Manley D. M. , Abt S. , Achenbach P. , Afzal F. , Aguar-Bartolomé P. , Ahmed Z. , Annand J. R. M. , Arends H. J. , Bashkanov M. , Beck R. , Biroth M. , Borisov N. , Braghieri A. , Briscoe W. J. , Cividini F. , Collicott C. , Costanza S. , Denig A. , Dieterle M. , Downie E. J. , Drexler P. , Ferretti Bondy M. I. , Gardner S. , Glazier D. I. , Gorodnov I. , Gradl W. , Günther M. , Gurevich D. , Kay S. , Heijkenskjöld L. , Hornidge D. , Huber G. M. , Käser M. , Kashevarov V. L. , Korolija M. , Krusche B. , Lazarev A. , Livingston K. , Lutterer S. , McGeorge J. C. , MacGregor I. J. D. , Martel P. P. , Middleton D. G. , Miskimen R. , Mornacchi E. , Mushkarenkov A. , Mullen C. , Neganov A. , Neiser A. , Oberle M. , Ostrick M. , Otte P. B. , Oussena B. , Paudyal D. , Pedroni P. , Powell A. , Prakhov S. N. , Ron G. , Rostomyan T. , Sarty A. , Sfienti C. , Sokhoyan V. , Spieker K. , Steffen O. , Strakovsky I. I. , Strub Th. , Supek I. , Thiel A. , Thiel M. , Thomas A. , Unverzagt M. , Usov Yu. A. , Walford N. K. , Watts D. P. , Wagner S. , Werthmüller D. , Wettig J. , Witthauer L. , Wolfes M.
Published: November 2019

This work measured$ \mathrm{d}\sigma/\mathrm{d}\Omega$dσ/dΩfor neutral kaon photoproduction reactions from threshold up to a c.m. energy of 1855MeV, focussing specifically on the$ \gamma p\rightarrow K^0\Sigma^+$γp→K0Σ+,$ \gamma n\rightarrow K^0\Lambda$γn→K0Λ, and$ \gamma n\rightarrow K^0 \Sigma^0$γn→K0Σ0reactions. Our results for$ \gamma n\rightarrow K^0 \Sigma^0$γn→K0Σ0are the first-ever measurements for that reaction. These data will provide insight into the properties of$ N^{\ast}$N*resonances and, in particular, will lead to an improved knowledge about those states that couple only weakly to the$ \pi N$πNchannel. Integrated cross sections were extracted by fitting the differential cross sections for each reaction as a series of Legendre polynomials and our results are compared with prior experimental results and theoretical predictions.
A study of Noether symmetries in LRS Bianchi type V spacetimes
Authors: Akhtar Sumaira Saleem , Hussain Tahir
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we have studied Noether symmetries of locally rotationally symmetric (LRS) Bianchi type V spacetimes. Solving the determining equations of Noether symmetries, it is concluded that the dimension of Noether algebra for these spacetimes is 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11 or 17. For all Noether symmetry generators, we have presented the corresponding conservation laws and the Lie algebra. Moreover, some physical implications of the obtained metrics are discussed, which include the study of different energy conditions.
A study on the Friedmann-like Universe with torsion using Noether symmetry
Authors: Radhakrishnan Ramkumar
Published: November 2019

This paper deals with the symmetry analysis of the Einstein Cartan Theory [E. Cartan, C. R. Acad. Sci. (Paris) 174, 593 (1922); E. Cartan, Ann. Sci. Ec. Norm. Super 40, 325 (1923)] which is an extension of the general relativity and it accounts for the spacetime torsion [S. Basilakos et al., Phys. Rev. D 88, 103526 (2013)]. We begin by applying Noether theorem [S. Capozziello, La Rivista del Nuovo Cimento (1978–1999) 19(4), 1 (1996)] to the Lagrangian of the FRW type cosmology with torsion and choose a point transformation: [Formula: see text], such that one of the transformed variables is cyclic [S. Capozziello, M. De Laurentis and S. D. Odintsov, Eur. Phys. J. C 72, 2068 (2012)] for the Lagrangian. Then using the conserved charge [S. Capozziello, M. De Laurentis and S. D. Odintsov, Eur. Phys. J. C 72, 2068 (2012)], which is obtained by applying Noether theorem, and the constant of motion, we get the solutions and conclude that due to the presence of torsion, the FRW type cosmology is in the de Sitter phase [D. Kranas, C. G. Tsagas, J. D. Barrow and D. Iosifidis, Eur. Phys. J. C 79, 341 (2019)].
Study on hydrogen embrittlement behavior of Sus301l-Mt austenitic stainless steel
Authors: Li Ting , Yu Tengyi , Gou Guoqing , Fu Zhenghong
Published: November 2019

SUS301L-MT (MT-middle tensile) stainless steel is widely used in metro structures due to its excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. However, since steel is metastable, hydrogen-sensitive deformed martensite may easily form during cold rolling, which affects the hydrogen embrittlement behavior of the steel. In this paper, tensile tests were carried out after electrochemical hydrogen charging. Fracture morphology and microstructure analysis were conducted to investigate the hydrogen embrittlement behavior. The results showed that as charging current density increased, the strength and elongation loss got greater. The most deteriorated sample had strength loss of 7.11% and the elongation loss reached 25.94%. The fracture of charged sample showed three regions including tough zone, transition zone (TZ) and brittle fracture zone (BFZ). The side surface was covered with microcracks, as a result of the dissolved hydrogen atoms accumulated in the stress concentration regions on the surface of the sample, forming local high pressure and promoting plastic deformation. Martensite was sensitive to hydrogen, which weakened the atomic bonding force. Hydrogen embrittlement caused the surface of the SUS301L-MT stainless steel to become brittle and finally brittle fracture occurred.
Detection of new multi-wave solutions in an unbounded domain
Authors: Ali Mohamed R. , Ma Wen-Xiu
Published: November 2019

We deduce new explicit traveling wave solutions for Zoomeron evolution equation and (3[Formula: see text]+[Formula: see text]1)-dimensional shallow water wave equation. The reduction process using Lie vectors leads in some cases to ordinary differential equations (ODEs) that having no quadrature. The integrating factor property has been used to derive several new solutions for these nonsolvable ODEs. These solutions have been illustrated with three dimensions plots. Comparison with other works are presented.
Effect of rare earth (Sc, Y, La, Sm and Gd) doping on mechanical and thermodynamic properties of Al12Mg17 intermetallic compounds
Authors: Zhao Fei , Chen Bao , Zhang Chuan-Hui
Published: November 2019

The structural, electronic, mechanical and thermodynamic properties for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] (RE = Sc, Y, La, Sm and Gd) compounds have been calculated by first-principles theory. The obtained structural parameters and elastic constants of two kinds of doped [Formula: see text] are compared with some theoretical and experimental data. The electronic structure analysis, such as density of states, explains the bonding character of Al–Mg–RE. All the doped [Formula: see text] are influenced by the high-energy electrons directly. Furthermore, the basic mechanical properties which are derived from the elastic constants and the thermal stability of doped [Formula: see text] are discussed. The predicted brittleness of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is consistent with the available experiments.
Tunable electronic structure and magnetic properties of Mn–NM (NM = B, C, N and S) co-doped monolayer WSe2
Authors: Lai Wenlong , Wang Lixin , An Yukai
Published: November 2019

Searching two-dimensional (2D) magnetic materials with high spin polarization is important for the development and application of next-generation spintronic devices. Here, based on spin-polarized density functional theory calculations, the stability, electronic structure and magnetic properties of Mn-doped and Mn–NM (NM = B, C, N and S) co-doped monolayer WSe2 are investigated in detail. The results indicate that the Mn–S co-doped MoSe2 configuration has the lowest formation energy in the whole chemical potential range and easily spontaneously forms under thermodynamic equilibrium conditions. Obviously, the Mn-doped WSe2 configuration exhibits magnetic half-metallicity characters with a completely spin polarization at the Femi level [Formula: see text], which can be attributed to that the electrons partially occupy the bonding states consisting of Mn [Formula: see text] states at the [Formula: see text]. For the Mn–C and Mn–S co-doped configurations, the Mn [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] orbitals strongly hybridize with the C or S spin-up [Formula: see text] orbital at the [Formula: see text], which induces strong spin exchange splitting and eventually gives rise to the magnetic semiconductor character. However, the Mn–B and Mn–N co-doped configurations exhibit completely symmetrical spin-up and spin-down channel of [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] states due to the effective charge compensation between Mn and B or N atoms. These studies provide a new class of 2D magnetic materials for future spintronics devices.
Fractional Fourier Transform for Digital Image Recognition
Authors: López-Ávila Luis Felipe , Álvarez-Borrego Josué
Published: November 2019

In the image recognition field, there are several techniques that allow identifying patterns in digital images, correlation being one of them. In a correlation, you have to obtain an output plane that is as clean as possible. To measure the sharpness of the correlation peak and the cleanliness of the output plane, a performance metric called Peak to Correlation Energy (PCE) is used.

In this paper, the fractional correlation is applied to recognize real phytoplankton images. This fractional correlation guarantees a higher PCE compared to the conventional correlation. The results of PCE are two-orders of magnitude higher than those obtained with the conventional correlation and manage to identify 91.23% of the images, while the conventional correlation only manages to identify 87.42% of them.

This methodology was tested using images in salt and pepper or Gaussian noise, and the fractional correlation output plane always is cleaner and generates a better-defined correlation peak when compared with the classical correlation.
THE CORRELATION OF LEFT ATRIAL FUNCTION AND CIRCULATING N-TERMINAL PRO-BRAIN NATRIURETIC PEPTIDE LEVELS IN CATS WITH HEART DISEASES
Authors: Chan I-Ping , Huang Shin-Yi , Lin Yun-Chang , Lin Shiun-Long
Published: November 2019

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between left atrium (LA) function variables and plasma N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels in cats with heart disease. Forty-six client-owned cats were classified into a healthy group (23 cats), an asymptomatic heart disease (HD) group (14 cats), and a heart failure (HF) group (9 cats). We measured plasma NT-proBNP levels, LA function variables, and standard echocardiography in all cats. Variables of LA function, including complete, active, and passive contraction, were assessed based on LA diameter, LA area, and LA volume. Those HD and HF cats had significantly higher NT-proBNP concentrations than healthy cats. Those HF cats had the largest LA size variables and the poorest LA function performance, followed by HD cats and then healthy cats. NT-proBNP levels correlated negatively with LA reservoir, conduit, and booster pump function in cats. Among all the three phases of the heartbeat, minimum LA size correlated positively with NT-proBNP concentration. Progressive impairment of LA function positively correlated with NT-proBNP levels in cats with heart disease. Minimum LA size may be a strong indicator of left ventricular diastolic function.
A linear algorithm for double Roman domination of proper interval graphs
Authors: Poureidi Abolfazl
Published: November 2019

A function [Formula: see text] is a double Roman dominating function on a graph [Formula: see text] if for every vertex [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] either there is a vertex [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] or there are distinct vertices [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] and for every vertex [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] there is a vertex [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text]. The weight of a double Roman dominating function [Formula: see text] on [Formula: see text] is the value [Formula: see text]. The minimum weight of a double Roman dominating function on [Formula: see text] is called the double Roman domination number of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we give an algorithm to compute the double Roman domination number of a given proper interval graph [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] time.
Reactive oxygen species-dependent regulation of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase-4 in white adipose tissue
Authors: Townsend Logan K. , Weber Alyssa J. , Barbeau Pierre-Andre , Holloway Graham P. , Wright David C.
Published: November 2019

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are important signaling molecules mediating the exercise-induced adaptations in skeletal muscle. Acute exercise also drives the expression of genes involved in reesterification and glyceroneogenesis in white adipose tissue (WAT), but whether ROS play any role in this effect has not been explored. We speculated that exercise-induced ROS would regulate acute exercise-induced responses in WAT. To address this question, we utilized various models to alter redox signaling in WAT. We examined basal and exercise-induced gene expression in a genetically modified mouse model of reduced mitochondrial ROS emission [mitochondrial catalase overexpression (MCAT)]. Additionally, H2O2, various antioxidants, and the β3-adrenergic receptor agonist CL316243 were used to assess gene expression in white adipose tissue culture. MCAT mice have reduced ROS emission from WAT, enlarged WAT depots and adipocytes, and greater pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase-4 ( Pdk4) gene expression. In WAT culture, H2O2 reduced glyceroneogenic gene expression. In wild-type mice, acute exercise induced dramatic but transient increases in Pdk4 and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase ( Pck1) mRNA in both subcutaneous inguinal WAT and epididymal WAT depots, which was almost completely absent in MCAT mice. Furthermore, the induction of Pdk4 and Pck1 in WAT culture by CL316243 was markedly reduced in the presence of antioxidants N-acetyl-cysteine or vitamin E. Genetic and nutritional approaches that attenuate redox signaling prevent exercise- and β-agonist-induced gene expression within WAT. Combined, these data suggest that ROS represent important mediators of gene expression within WAT.
Latency of phototransduction limits transfer of higher-frequency signals in cockroach photoreceptors
Authors: Ignatova Irina I. , Saari Paulus , Frolov Roman V.
Published: November 2019

Visual transduction in rhabdomeric photoreceptors is compartmentalized and discretized. Signals of individual microvilli, the quantum bumps, are electrotonically summed, producing a graded response. Intrinsic dispersion of quantum bump latencies is thought to introduce noise and degrade signal transfer. Here, we found profound differences in the information rate and signaling bandwidth between in vitro patch-clamp and in vivo intracellular recordings of Periplaneta americana photoreceptors and traced them to the properties of quantum bumps and membrane resistance. Comparison of macroscopic and elementary light responses revealed differences in quantum bump summation and membrane resistance in vivo versus in vitro. Modeling of voltage bumps suggested that current bumps in vivo should be much bigger and faster than those actually recorded in vitro. Importantly, the group-average latency of dark-adapted photoreceptors was 30 ± 8 ms in intracellular ( n = 34) versus 70 ± 19 ms in patch-clamp ( n = 57) recordings. Duration of composite responses increased with mean latency because bump dispersion depended on mean latency. In vivo, latency dispersion broadened the composite response by 25% on average and slowed its onset. However, in the majority of photoreceptors, the characteristic durations of multiphoton impulse responses to 1-ms stimuli did not exceed the durations of mean voltage bumps. Consistently, we found strong associations between the latency and onset kinetics of the macroscopic response, on the one hand and the higher-frequency signal gain and information rate of the photoreceptor, on the other hand, indicating a direct connection between quantum bump latency and its dispersion and the signaling bandwidth.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY When stimulated by light, microvilli of rhabdomeric photoreceptors produce discrete signals characterized by variable latencies. We show that this intrinsic latency dispersion restricts signaling bandwidth and information rate of photoreceptors in Periplaneta americana. Profound differences are found between the properties of photoreceptor responses in vivo and in vitro.
Soft Sensing Modeling of the SMB Chromatographic Separation Process Based on the Adaptive Neural Fuzzy Inference System
Authors: Wang Dan , Wang Jie-Sheng , Wang Shao-Yan , Li Shou-Jiang , Yan Zhen , Sun Wei-Zhen
Published: November 2019

Simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatographic separation technology is a new adsorption separation technology with strong separation ability. Based on the principle of the adaptive neural fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), a soft sensing modeling method was proposed for realizing the prediction of the purity of the extract and raffinate components in the SMB chromatographic separation process. The input data space of the established soft sensor model is divided, and the premise parameters are determined by utilizing the meshing partition method, subtractive clustering algorithm, and fuzzy C-means (FCM) clustering algorithm. The gradient, Kalman, Kaczmarz, and PseudoInv algorithms were used to optimize the conclusion parameters of ANFIS soft sensor models so as to predict the purity of the extract and raffinate components in the SMB chromatographic separation process. The simulation results indicate that the proposed ANFIS soft sensor models can effectively predict the key economic and technical indicators of the SMB chromatographic separation process.
Oxidative DNA Damage Signalling in Neural Stem Cells in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Kieroń Marcelina , Żekanowski Cezary , Falk Anna , Wężyk Michalina
Published: November 2019

The main pathological symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are β-amyloid (Aβ) lesions and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles of hyperphosphorylated tau protein. Unfortunately, existing symptomatic therapies targeting Aβ and tau remain ineffective. In addition to these pathogenic factors, oxidative DNA damage is one of the major threats to newborn neurons. It is necessary to consider in detail what causes neurons to be extremely susceptible to oxidative damage, especially in the early stages of development. Accordingly, the regulation of redox status is crucial for the functioning of neural stem cells (NSCs). The redox-dependent balance, of NSC proliferation and differentiation and thus the neurogenesis process, is controlled by a series of signalling pathways. One of the most important signalling pathways activated after oxidative stress is the DNA damage response (DDR). Unfortunately, our understanding of adult neurogenesis in AD is still limited due to the research material used (animal models or post-mortem tissue), providing inconsistent data. Now, thanks to the advances in cellular reprogramming providing patient NSCs, it is possible to fill this gap, which becomes urgent in the light of the potential of their therapeutic use. Therefore, a decent review of redox signalling in NSCs under physiological and pathological conditions is required. At this moment, we attempt to integrate knowledge on the influence of oxidative stress and DDR signalling in NSCs on adult neurogenesis in Alzheimer’s disease.
Association of Melatonin Pathway Gene’s Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in a Chinese Population
Authors: Wang Peng , Liu Lei , Zhao Li-Fang , Zhao Chan-Na , Mao Yan-Mei , Dan Yi-Lin , Wu Qian , Li Xiao-Mei , Wang De-Guang , Pan Hai-Feng
Published: November 2019

Objectives. This study was to investigate the association of melatonin (MTN) pathway gene’s single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods. We recruited 495 SLE patients and 493 healthy controls, 11 tag SNPs in MTN receptor 1a (MTNR1a), MTNR1b, and arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT) genes were genotyped and analyzed. Serum MTN concentration was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Results. Two SNPs of AANAT gene (rs8150 and rs3760138) associated with the risk of SLE; CC carriers of rs8150 had a lower risk as compared to GG (OR=0.537, 95% CI: 0.361, 0.799), whereas GG carrier in rs3760138 had an increased risk (OR=1.823, 95% CI: 1.154, 2.880) compared to TT. However, we did not find any genetic association between the other nine SNPs with SLE risk. Case-only analysis showed associations of rs2165667 and rs1562444 with arthritis, rs10830962 with malar rash, rs3760138 with immunological abnormality, and rs8150 with hematological abnormality. Furthermore, a significant difference between plasma MTN levels with different genotypes of rs1562444 was observed. Haplotype analyses revealed that haplotype of CCTAT, CTAGT, and GGG was significantly associated with the increased risk in SLE susceptibility, but TCTAT and CTG appeared to be a protective haplotype. Conclusions. The present study supported the genetic association of MTN pathway genes with SLE susceptibility and specific clinical manifestations, suggesting the potential role of MTN pathway genes in the pathogenesis and development of SLE.
Dietary Diversity among Children Aged 6–23 Months in Aleta Wondo District, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Dafursa Karisa , Gebremedhin Samson
Published: November 2019

Background. Dietary diversity (DD) is among the core infant and young child feeding (IYCF) indicators. However, in many developing countries, meeting the minimum standards of DD is challenging and information concerning its determinants is limited. Objective. To assess the level and predictors of DD among children aged 6–23 months in rural communities of Aleta Wondo district, Sidama zone, Southern Ethiopia. Method. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in rural Aleta Wondo in February 2016. Multistage sampling was employed to recruit 502 children aged 6–23 months. DD was assessed by asking the mother whether the index child had received food from the standard seven food groups in the previous day, without setting minimum intake restrictions. Ultimately, the dietary diversity score (DDS) was rated on a 7-point scale, and it was modeled using linear regression analysis. The outputs are presented using adjusted regression coefficients (β). Results. Only 12.0% (95% confidence interval: 9.0–15.0%) of the children met the minimum recommended DD, receiving from four or more from seven food groups. The analysis identified eleven significant predictors of DDS. As the maternal knowledge of IYCF increases by a unit, DDS raised by 0.21 units (p=0.004). Unit increment in the husband’s involvement in the IYCF score was linked with 0.32 units improvement in DDS (p=0.016). One unit change in the ordinal category of household food insecurity was associated with 0.13 reduction in DDS (p=0.001). Similarly, household wealth index (β = 0.54, p=0.041), father’s literacy (β = 0.48, p=0.002), ownership of home garden (β = 0.38, p=0.01), mother’s participation in cooking demonstrations (β = 0.19, p=0.036), and child age in months (β = 0.04, p=0.001) were all positively associated with DDS. Furthermore, receiving IYCF information via mass media (β = 0.04, p=0.001) and during antenatal (β = 0.91, p=0.022) and postnatal checkups (β = 0.21, p=0.043) were positive predictors of DDS. Conclusions. Promoting the socioeconomic status of the community, strengthening of home gardening, involving husbands in IYCF, and enhancing maternal knowledge of IYCF may advance DD.
Exosomes Mediate Hippocampal and Cortical Neuronal Injury Induced by Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury through Activating Pyroptosis in Rats
Authors: Zhang Limei , Liu Hanyu , Jia Lili , Lyu Jingshu , Sun Ying , Yu Hongli , Li Hongxia , Liu Weihua , Weng Yiqi , Yu Wenli
Published: November 2019

Background. The neuronal injury and cognitive dysfunction after liver transplantation have severe effects on the prognosis and life quality of patients. Accumulating evidence suggests that both exosomes and pyroptosis could participate in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (HIRI) and play key roles in neuronal death. However, the link between exosomes and neuronal pyroptosis in HIRI awaits further investigation. Methods. After establishing the HIRI rat models, we primarily studied the role of pyroptosis in hippocampal and cortical neuron injury through detecting NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), pro-caspase-1, cleaved-caspase-1, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing CARD (ASC), gasdermin D (GSDMD), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-18 (IL-18) expressions with western blotting, immunohistochemical staining, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Then, we intravenously injected normal male rats with exosomes isolated from the sera of HIRI-challenged rats and pretreated rats with MCC950, a specific inhibitor of NLRP3, and carried out the same assay. We also detected the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the hippocampal and cortical tissues. Results. The results indicated that NLRP3 inflammasome and caspase-1-dependent pyroptosis were activated in the hippocampus and cortex of HIRI rats. Furthermore, serum-derived exosomes from HIRI-challenged rats not only had the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) but also had the similar effects on neuronal pyroptosis. Moreover, ROS and MDA productions were induced in the HIRI and exosome-challenged groups. In addition, to some degree, MCC950 could alleviate HIRI-mediated hippocampal and cortical neuronal pyroptosis. Conclusion. This study experimentally demonstrated that circulating exosomes play a critical role in HIRI-mediated hippocampal and cortical injury through regulating neuronal pyroptosis.
Computation of Intersegmental Moments during Standing Posture: Can We Neglect the Horizontal Ground Reaction Force? Results from an Experimental Study
Authors: Prost Solène , Pesenti Sébastien , Moal Bertrand , Pomero Vincent , Fuentes Stephane , Tropiano Patrick , Lafage Virginie , Jouve Jean-Luc , Blondel Benjamin
Published: November 2019

Background. The development of postural analysis thanks to force and pressure platforms, in order to determine the center of pressure, can be valuable in the setting of spinal malalignment. The purpose of this study was to compare “pressure” and “force” platforms for the evaluation of the center of pressure. In other words, can we neglect the horizontal ground reaction force in the evaluation of intersegmental moments during standing posture? Methods. Postural data from two healthy adult volunteers were analyzed. Analysis of the posture was done according to a protocol providing sagittal intersegmental moments. A set of 36 markers was used to divide the body in 10 segments. Postacquisition calculations were done in order to obtain the sagittal net intersegmental moments. To evaluate the differences in intersegmental moments between force and pressure platforms, the postacquisition calculations were done with a simulated pressure platform. Mean intersegmental moments between each body segment for each volunteer were compared. Findings. There were significant differences between the 2 platforms in intersegmental moments for the lumbo-sacral junction, hips, knees, and ankles (p<0.005). All differences were inferior to intrasubject variability measured with the force platform (p<0.001). Results from intra- and interobserver comparisons showed that differences measured with the pressure platform were all inferior to the standard error obtained with the force platform for every intersegmental moment (p<0.001). Interpretation. The use of a simulated pressure platform to determine intersegmental moments has the same clinical efficiency as force platforms. Moreover, the possibility to set the platform into the radiograph room will allow in a second time a correlation between radiographic parameters and biomechanical constraints applied to the spine.
Experimental Study on Creep Characteristics of Microdefect Articular Cartilages in the Damaged Early Stage
Authors: Gong Huchen , Men Yutao , Yang Xiuping , Li Xiaoming , Zhang Chunqiu
Published: November 2019

Traumatic joint injury is known to cause cartilage deterioration and osteoarthritis. In order to study the mechanical mechanism of damage evolution on articular cartilage, taking the fresh porcine articular cartilage as the experimental samples, the creep experiments of the intact cartilages and the cartilages with different depth defect were carried out by using the noncontact digital image correlation technology. And then, the creep constitutive equations of cartilages were established. The results showed that the creep curves of different layers changed exponentially and were not coincident for the cartilage sample. The defect affected the strain values of the creep curves. The creep behavior of cartilage was dependent on defect depth. The deeper the defect was, the larger the strain value was. The built three-parameter viscoelastic constitutive equation had a good correlation with the experimental results and could predict the creep performance of the articular cartilage. The creep values of the microdefective cartilage in the damaged early stage were different from the diseased articular cartilage. These findings pointed out that defect could accelerate the damage of cartilage. It was helpful to study the mechanical mechanism of damage evolution.
MitoCLox: A Novel Mitochondria-Targeted Fluorescent Probe for Tracing Lipid Peroxidation
Authors: Lyamzaev Konstantin G. , Sumbatyan Natalia V. , Nesterenko Alexey M. , Kholina Ekaterina G. , Voskoboynikova Natalia , Steinhoff Heinz-Jürgen , Mulkidjanian Armen Y. , Chernyak Boris V.
Published: November 2019

Peroxidation of cardiolipin (CL) in the inner mitochondrial membrane plays a key role in the development of various pathologies and, probably, aging. The four fatty acid tails of CL are usually polyunsaturated, which makes CL particularly sensitive to peroxidation. Peroxidation of CL is involved in the initiation of apoptosis, as well as in some other important cellular signaling chains. However, the studies of CL peroxidation are strongly limited by the lack of methods for its tracing in living cells. We have synthesized a new mitochondria-targeted fluorescent probe sensitive to lipid peroxidation (dubbed MitoCLox), where the BODIPY fluorophore, carrying a diene-containing moiety (as in the C11-BODIPY (581/591) probe), is conjugated with a triphenylphosphonium cation (TPP+) via a long flexible linker that contains two amide bonds. The oxidation of MitoCLox could be measured either as a decrease of absorbance at 588 nm or as an increase of fluorescence in the ratiometric mode at 520/590 nm (emission). In CL-containing liposomes, MitoCLox oxidation was induced by cytochrome c and developed in parallel with cardiolipin oxidation. TPP+-based mitochondria-targeted antioxidant SkQ1, in its reduced form, inhibited oxidation of MitoCLox concurrently with the peroxidation of cardiolipin. Molecular dynamic simulations of MitoCLox in a cardiolipin-containing membrane showed affinity of positively charged MitoCLox to negatively charged CL molecules; the oxidizable diene moiety of MitoCLox resided on the same depth as the cardiolipin lipid peroxides. We suggest that MitoCLox could be used for monitoring CL oxidation in vivo and, owing to its flexible linker, also serve as a platform for producing peroxidation sensors with affinity to particular lipids.
Qualidade de vida entre consumidores de substâncias psicoativas
Authors: Cruz Bárbara Lais da , Simioni Patricia Ucelli , Carmo Thais Adriana do
Published: November 2019

Objetivo: o presente trabalho teve por objetivo descrever a utilização e os resultados obtidos com o instrumento Medical Outcomes Study Short Form -36 item (SF-36) para avaliação de qualidade de vida de pessoas em situação de uso, abuso ou dependência de substâncias psicoativas (SPA). Método: realizou-se um levantamento bibliográfico em artigos e revistas científicas, dissertações e monografias. Resultados: os estudos mostram que o uso de substâncias psicoativas traz prejuízos para saúde e qualidade de vida das pessoas. Conclusão: observa-se que o instrumento SF-36 se mostra válido e confiável para a avaliação da qualidade de vida entre consumidores de SPA e possui em seus domínios algumas dimensões que são bastante sensíveis a avaliação de aspectos da qualidade de vida desta população.
Prevalência de depressão em servidores do Instituto Nacional de Seguridade Social
Authors: Missiatto Leandro Aparecido Fonseca , Feitosa Fabio Biasotto , Rodríguez Tomás Daniel Menéndez , Mathis Maria Alice Simões de
Published: November 2019

Este estudo trata de uma pesquisa realizada com 132 servidores públicos do Instituto Nacional de Seguridade Social do estado de Rondônia cujo objetivo foi verificar a prevalência de depressão nessa amostra. Utilizou-se como instrumentos um questionário socioeconômico, elaborado pelos pesquisadores, e o Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Os resultados demonstram que a prevalência de depressão nesse grupo foi maior nos servidores do interior do estado, com alta escolarização e que permanecem estudando. Essas informações podem contribuir com a elaboração de específicas políticas de saúde mental para o contexto dos servidores do INSS/RO.