bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vivo evaluation of the effectiveness of biocellulose facial masks as active delivery systems to skin
Authors: Perugini Paola , Bleve Mariella , Redondi Renato , Cortinovis Fabiola , Colpani Antonio
Published: July 2019

Background

In recent years, bacterial cellulose (BC), or biocellulose, a natural polymer synthesized by certain bacteria, has attracted great interest in dermatology and cosmetic applications.

Several bioactive ingredients are currently loaded into BC masks. However, only a few studies have reported the effectiveness of such delivery systems.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect on skin parameters of three biocellulose masks formulated to have different cosmetic effects (anti‐aging, lifting, and cell renewal). In particular, skin moisturizing, skin color, skin viscoelastic properties, skin surface smoothness, wrinkle reduction, dermal homogeneity, and stratum corneum renewal were evaluated.

Materials and methods

The study involved 69 healthy Caucasian female volunteers between 25 and 64 years, who were divided into three different studies. Biocellulose facial masks were applied using the split‐face method three times a week for 4‐8 weeks depending on the study.

Results

The results obtained from this work highlight that biocellulose masks are very well tolerated. A significant decrease in skin roughness and wrinkle breadth, and an improvement in dermal homogeneity and firmness, was observed after 2 months of treatment with “anti‐aging” masks. A significant improvement in skin firmness and elasticity was observed after 1 month of treatment with “lifting” masks. Furthermore, a 1‐month treatment with “cell renewal” masks promoted the production of new skin cells through a mild exfoliating action.

Conclusions

This study highlights that biocellulose masks are effective delivery systems to successfully release into the skin several types of active compounds exerting many beneficial effects.
Autologous fat transfer for facial recontouring in Parry‐Romberg syndrome
Authors: Kasielska‐Trojan Anna , Zieliński Tomasz , Antoszewski Bogusław
Published: July 2019

Background

Parry‐Romberg syndrome (PRS) is a rare condition involving self‐limited progressive facial hemiatrophy.

Aims

To analyze esthetic results of fat graft used for correcting soft‐tissues atrophy in PRS patients, in the aspect of volume restoration and skin rejuvenation, to present our experience in redefining facial contours in PRS and modification of fat graft accusation technique (based on Coleman's technique).

Patients/Methods

A prospective evaluation study was designed to analyze esthetic results (contour and skin condition), complications, and subjective satisfaction of eight patients with PRS treated with fat graft.

Results

All patients underwent two (n = 6) or three (n = 2) procedures in 3 months intervals (the mean 3.7 months). No major postoperative complications were observed. The authors evaluated their esthetic results concerning face contour and symmetry as good (in four patients) and very good (in four patients). Subjective assessment showed high patients’ satisfaction with the final result of face contouring (the mean VAS [0‐5]‐4.75).

Conclusions

Our experience shows that fat grafting in patients with PRS is safe and gives satisfactory results in the aspect of volume restoration and skin quality improvement. Modified technique of graft preparation (112 g for 3 minutes) enables to obtain less dense fat graft, which is more appropriate in case of PRS patients with thin atrophic skin.
Pollination ofHabenaria tridactyliteson the Canary Islands
Authors: Claessens Jean , Bacallado Juan José , Bogarin Diego , Dedroog Liliane , Heijungs Reinout , Langelaan Rob , van Nieukerken Erik J. , van den Berg Kees , Gravendeel Barbara
Published: July 2019

We investigated the pollination ofHabenaria tridactylites, an endemic orchid of the Canary Islands. The entirely green, widely open flowers have a long spur containing nectar. We carried out fieldwork, a molecular clock analysis, herbarium surveys, identified pollinators by both morphology and DNA barcoding, and measured the length of floral spurs and insect tongues using a combination of traditional and innovative micro‐CT scanning methods to 1) determine the pollinator of this orchid and 2) investigate correlations between local mean spur length and age, altitude and longitude of the island.Habenaria tridactyliteswas found to be pollinated on Tenerife by both small and intermediate sized moth species with variable tongue lengths and mostly belonging to Geometridae and to a lesser extent Crambidae, Erebidae, Noctuidae and Tortricidae. Of the sixteen moth species identified, nine are endemic to the Canary Islands or Macaronesia. The different local populations ofH. tridactyliteson the islands of Gran Canaria, El Hierro, La Gomera, La Palma and Tenerife with different ages and distances from mainland Africa, did not show a significant correlation of mean spur length and altitude, but did show a significant and positive linear correlation with longitude and the geological age of the island. The latter is congruent with the evolutionary arms race theory first proposed by Darwin, suggesting that flowers gradually evolve longer spurs and pollinators longer tongues.
Allergen components in diagnosing childhood hazelnut allergy: Systematic literature review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nilsson Caroline , Berthold Malin , Mascialino Barbara , Orme Michelle , Sjölander Sigrid , Hamilton Robert
Published: July 2019

Background

Hazelnut‐specific IgE antibodies (sIgEs) in serum support the diagnosis of hazelnut allergy, but extract‐based tests have low diagnostic specificity, commonly leading to over‐diagnosis. Measuring sensitization to individual allergen components may enhance the diagnosis of hazelnut allergy. We systematically examined data on diagnostic accuracy of sIgE to commercially available hazelnut components to compare their individual contributions in diagnosing hazelnut allergy.

Methods

Seven databases were searched for diagnostic studies on patients suspected of having hazelnut allergy. Studies employing component‐specific IgE testing on patients whose final diagnosis was determined by oral food challenges were included in the meta‐analysis. Study quality was assessed as recommended by Cochrane.

Results

Seven cross‐sectional studies and one case‐control study were identified, seven presenting data on children (N = 635), and one on a mixed age population. Overall, the diagnostic accuracies of sIgE to both Cor a 9 and Cor a 14 were significantly higher than for Cor a 1‐sIgE (P < .05). In children, the specificity of Cor a 14‐sIgE at 0.35 kUA/L cutoff was 81.7% (95% CI 77.1, 85.6), and 67.3% (60.3, 73.6) for Cor a 9‐sIgE. The specificities for Cor a 1‐sIgE and hazelnut‐sIgE were 22.5% (7.4, 51.2) and 10.8% (3.4, 29.8), respectively. The sensitivity of Cor a 1‐sIgE (60.2% [46.9, 72.2]) was lower than for hazelnut extract‐sIgE (95.7% [88.7, 98.5]), while their specificities did not differ significantly.

Conclusion

sIgE to Cor a 14 and Cor a 9 hazelnut storage proteins increases diagnostic specificity in assessing hazelnut allergy in children. The combined use of hazelnut extract and hazelnut storage proteins may improve diagnostic value.
The weirdness of having a bunch of other minds like yours in the room: The lived experiences of mentalization‐based therapy for borderline personality disorder
Authors: Gardner Kathryn Jane , Wright Karen M. , Elliott Alison , Graham Simon , Fonagy Peter
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Studies of lived experiences are important for improving treatment effectiveness, but most studies of mentalization‐based therapy (MBT) are quantitative. This qualitative study aimed to better understand service users’ lived experiences of MBT, including their experiences of change.

Design

This is a qualitative study that used one‐to‐one semi‐structured interviews.

Method

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with eight MBT service users recruited via four NHS trusts. Interviews were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA).

Findings

Three superordinate themes were identified: being borderline, being in the group, and being on a journey. ‘Experiences of diagnosis’ and ‘the group’ are salient topics in the lived experiences of service users’ during the MBT journey, as is the nature/type of ‘change’ that can create symptom reduction albeit alongside a negative felt experience.

Conclusion

Our research aligns with current thought regarding the complexity and challenges of treating BPD via psychotherapy and adds a further dimension, that of experiencing MBT and changes during therapy. The participants’ experiences of BPD and of experiencing MBT are discussed.

Practitioner points

Therapists are observant of how each client gives meaning to their experience of diagnosis, the group, and change, particularly since the experience of recovery is not all positive.

Service users’ emerging and ongoing construction of their experience of diagnosis is closely monitored and additional appropriate strategies implemented where necessary.

The impact of joining MBT, especially the group, becomes a process for formal regular review.

Therapists undertake an in‐depth exploration of service users’ felt experiences to capture less quantifiable dimensions of change.
Concurrent Business and Buyer–Supplier Behavior in B2B Auctions: Evidence from Truckload Transportation
Authors: Scott Alex
Published: July 2019

Buyers often procure distinct goods and services from the same supplier. Accordingly, business exchanged in one setting may affect exchanges between the buyer and supplier in other settings. We study how business procured via online business‐to‐business (B2B) auctions is affected by business exchanged between the buyer and supplier concurrent to the auctions (concurrent business). Using two transactional datasets, one with auctions held by a large buyer of transportation services over a 4‐year period and another with the buyer's transactions with suppliers over the same time period but governed by long‐term contracts, we analyze whether the contractual business affects decisions made in the auctions. We find that the buyer's auction–invitation decisions are affected by a supplier's auction performance and the presence and magnitude of the concurrent business relationship, showing that relationships still matter when buyers use online B2B auctions for procurement. After the concurrent relationship ends, auction invitations eventually cease; this effect, however, is moderated by the supplier's performance in the auctions. Concurrent business also affects supplier decisions in the form of reference prices. When a buyer and supplier have a preexisting price for the service up for auction, the supplier at times substitutes that for their bid price, with considerable heterogeneity explained by a supplier's business model, market conditions, and the recent usage of the contract price in the concurrent relationship. The business relationship external to a B2B auction significantly affects the decisions made within an auction through multiple mechanisms.
Left ventricular geometry correlates with early repolarization pattern in adolescent athletes
Authors: Miragoli Michele , Goldoni Matteo , Demola Pierluigi , Paterlini Arianna , Li Calzi Mauro , Gioia Margherita Ilaria , Visioli Francesco , Rossi Stefano , Pelà Giovanna
Published: July 2019

Some forms of early ECG repolarization QRS pattern (ERp) with J‐point elevation of 0.1 mV in two contiguous inferior and/or lateral leads with or without ST‐elevation are potentially associated with a higher arrhythmic risk in adults. We assessed the prevalence of ERp among non‐professional adolescent athletes and correlated it with age, sex, ethnicity, and structural and electric cardiac parameters. We retrospectively analyzed 414 ECGs obtained from young athletes referred to our center from 2006 to 2017. We found ERp in 22% of cases. In the ERp group, we found a greater percentage of black athletes, a higher systolic blood pressure, and lower heart rate (HR) compared with the group without ERp. This pattern was less frequent in female athletes. In athletes with ERp, the occurrence of ventricular ectopic beats was less frequent and QRS‐duration was shorter. They also exhibited greater (a) ECG‐based left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), (b) left ventricular mass, and (c) relative wall thickness (RWT), suggesting a tendency to concentric geometry. At logistic regression analysis, we found that HR (OR 0.98 [0.96‐0.99] P = .013), QRS‐duration (OR 0.96 [0.94‐0.99], P = .003), LVH (OR 1.09 [1.05‐1.12], P < .001), and RWT (OR 1.08 [1.01‐1.16] P = .032) were significant predictors of ERp incidence. ERp is quite common in adolescent athletes and correlates with concentric LV remodeling. Specific clinical and ECG‐findings related to training such as lower HR, LVH, and QRS‐duration are also predictors of ERp. In adolescent non‐professional athletes, ERp is a benign finding associated with some structural and electric cardiac modifications induced by training.
Topic Subjects in Brazilian Portuguese and Clitic Left Dislocation in Dominican Spanish: The Role of Clitics and Null Subjects
Authors: Kato Mary A. , Ordóñez Francisco
Published: July 2019

Brazilian Portuguese used to have null subjects like European Portuguese, but today they are mostly lost. It has been claimed that this change to the null‐subject parameter made Brazilian Portuguese no longer a subject‐prominent language (aka an agreement‐prominent language) but a topic‐and‐subject‐prominent one, with the appearance of so‐called topic subjects. In this article, we show that the loss of null subjects in Brazilian Portuguese is not sufficient to explain the emergence of topic subjects: the generalized loss of third‐person clitics also plays a crucial role. We provide evidence from within Brazilian Portuguese, comparing topic‐subject constructions to clitic‐left‐dislocation constructions with first‐ and second‐person pronouns; we also compare Brazilian Portuguese to Dominican Spanish, a language that has also mostly lost null subjects but has retained its entire clitic system. We show that what is behind the appearance of topic‐subject constructions in Brazilian Portuguese is the partial disappearance of clitic left dislocation, a topic construction that Dominican Spanish has retained for all persons. The analysis proposed appeals to empty dative clitics and their inability to assign case in Brazilian Portuguese. Finally, we adopt the feature‐inheritance hypothesis (Miyagawa 2010) in order to derive the topicality of Brazilian Portuguese's so‐called topic subjects.
Methotrexate exposure and risk of strongyloidiasis
Authors: Richards Ceri , Penner Justin , Colmegna Ines , Loewen Hal , Melaku Zenebe , Melkie Addisu , Meltzer Michele , Scuccimarri Rosie , Mengistu Yewondwossen , Hitchon Carol A.
Published: July 2019

Objective

Rheumatologic disease patients receiving immunomodulating drugs such as methotrexate (MTX) have increased infection rates. Strongyloides, a global endemic intestinal parasite, can cause significant or fatal disease in immunocompromised patients. The risk of serious Strongyloides infection with MTX dosed for rheumatologic disease is unknown.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature review searching EMBASE, Medline and Web of Science databases. All studies reporting humans exposed to MTX and tested for Strongyloides were reviewed. Exclusion criteria were bone marrow transplantation, intrathecal route and MTX exposure completed >1 year prior to clinically apparent Strongyloides disease.

Results

After excluding duplicates, 294 articles were reviewed. Of these, 29 cases were described in 27 papers. Twenty cases (69%) had an underlying rheumatologic or dermatologic disease, the rest had a haematologic disease. Hyperinfection or dissemination was found in 59% of cases (52% low‐dose MTX; 75% high‐dose MTX). Death occurred in 34% of cases (19% low‐dose MTX; 75% high‐dose MTX, P < 0.01). All eight patients on high‐dose MTX received other immunosuppressants. Corticosteroids were taken in 18/21 patients on low‐dose MTX. One of the three patients on MTX monotherapy had hyperinfection syndrome. None had disseminated Strongyloides.

Conclusions

Serious Strongyloides infection can occur with low‐dose MTX particularly when given with other immunosuppression. Global travel and greater awareness of rheumatologic conditions in low‐ to middle‐income countries will increase the exposure of individuals prescribed MTX (with or without corticosteroids) to Strongyloides. Strongyloides screening and treatment should be considered for individuals receiving low‐dose MTX therapy, particularly if combined with additional immunosuppression.
Novel reconstruction of an open pilon fracture with significant bone loss
Authors: Mastan Saleem , Pillai Anand
Published: July 2019

This is a case of how a polytrauma patient was managed successfully. This 47-year-old woman was a victim of a detonated improvised explosive device in a terror attack. She had multiple injuries and underwent damage control surgery. She suffered significant bone loss with an open distal tibia pilon fracture, which we reconstructed with novel techniques. About 18 months postoperative, she is mobilising without the use of any aids.
POEMS syndrome complicated by ischaemic stroke and cerebral vasculitis
Authors: Vasilevskiy Leonid , Akhondi Hossein , Wierman Ann
Published: July 2019

We present a case of ischaemic stroke in the context of polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy and skin changes (POEMS) syndrome associated with cerebral vasculitis as confirmed by imaging. There is little information on the prevalence of cerebral vasculitis in POEMS patients, and we found only one previous report of such case in the literature.
Ototoxicity, a rare but reversible adverse effect of a commonly used antimicrobial agent
Authors: Singh Pawan Kumar , Sharma Vishal
Published: July 2019

In this case report, we describe a rare manifestation of amphotericin B (AMB) toxicity. A case of fever, hepato-splenomegaly and pancytopenia was diagnosed, based on serological test and demographic profile, as visceral leishmaniasis complicated with secondary haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. He was managed with conventional AMB. Subsequently, patient was showing subjective and objective improvement. Suddenly after receiving 450 mg of cumulative dose of AMB, patient developed hearing loss. On evaluation, he was found to have bilateral mixed hearing loss. Patient was investigated for the causes of hearing loss. When nothing could be attributed as an aetiology, AMB was stopped (after 500 mg cumulative dose). After missing the dose of AMB, patient had a dramatic improvement in his sense of hearing, which was confirmed objectively by audiometry before and after the event.
‘Step Up’ approach to the application of REBOA technology in a rural trauma system
Authors: Vernamonti Jack P , Holcomb John , Mick Nathan W , Falank Carolyne , Ontengco Julianne B , Rappold Joseph , Sheppard Forest Raymond
Published: July 2019

Our group has developed a ‘Step Up’ approach to the application of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) in a rural trauma system. This incorporates viewing REBOA as a spectrum of technology. Examples of REBOA technology use to improve outcomes and provision of our system’s clinical practice guideline for the Step-Up application of REBOA technology in the care of trauma patients are presented.
Multidisciplinary classification of Canadian river reaches to support the sustainable management of freshwater systems
Authors: Ouellet Dallaire Camille , Lehner Bernhard , Creed Irena
Published: July 2019

Climate change is altering the hydrology of Canadian rivers to an unprecedented degree. Consequently, sustainable freshwater management practices need to adapt, which include the development of integrated water resource strategies and environmental flow recommendations. A particular challenge arises for these assessments due to the highly diverse nature of river ecosystems across Canada. This diversity can be addressed by using a classification system to create manageable spatial units. Building upon and adapting the results of a global river reach classification scheme, we present a multidisciplinary K-means clustering approach to categorize all river reaches of Canada into 23 types at fine spatial resolution. The typology is based on classifier variables related to hydrology, mostly derived from modelled long-term means of monthly discharges, physiography, climate, and fluvial geomorphology. Resulting maps provide baseline information for rivers of all size classes, from small headwater streams to very large rivers, across the entire country, including unmonitored regions such as the High Arctic. The classification system also points to some strategic expansion opportunities for the current Canadian monitoring network of river gauging stations.
Levy noise-induced inverse stochastic resonance in a single neuron
Authors: Zhao Yue , Li Dongxi
Published: July 2019

In this paper, the phenomenon of inverse stochastic resonance (ISR) induced by Levy noise is investigated in a single neuron. Firstly, the discharge of Hodgkin–Huxley neuron at different current strengths without noise is studied. Then we cite the concept of average spiking rate and use it as a scale to measure the discharge of neuron. Under the influence of Levy noise, it is found that the average firing rate can reach a minimum caused by stability index and a scale parameter of Levy noise. The conclusion is that ISR could be induced by Levy noise when the input current strength reaches the critical threshold. Besides, in order to further prove that Levy noise can produce ISR, interspike intervals (ISIs) histogram is used for studying discharge patterns in voltage. Finally, we find that with the increase of stability index and scale parameter of Levy noise, the total number of ISIs decreases first and then increases, which implies the appearance of ISR.
Equidistant combination wavelength screening and step-by-step phase-out method for the near-infrared spectroscopic analysis of serum urea nitrogen
Authors: Yang Yihui , Lei Fenfen , Zhang Jing , Yao Lijun , Chen Jiemei , Pan Tao
Published: July 2019

We applied near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy with chemometrics for the rapid and reagent-free analysis of serum urea nitrogen (SUN). The modeling is based on the average effect of multiple sample partitions to achieve parameter selection with stability. A multiparameter optimization platform with Norris derivative filter–partial least squares (Norris-PLS) was developed to select the most suitable mode [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. Using equidistant combination PLS (EC-PLS) with four parameters (initial wavelength [Formula: see text], number of wavelengths [Formula: see text], number of wavelength gaps [Formula: see text] and latent variables LV), we performed wavelength screening after eliminating high-absorption wavebands. The optimal EC-PLS parameters were [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. The root-mean-square error (SEP), correlation coefficient [Formula: see text] for prediction and ratio of performance-to-deviation (RPD) for validation were 1.03[Formula: see text]mmol[Formula: see text]L[Formula: see text], 0.992 and 7.6, respectively. We proposed the wavelength step-by-step phase-out PLS (WSP-PLS) to remove redundant wavelengths in the top 100 EC-PLS models with improved prediction performance. The combination of 19 wavelengths was identified as the optimal model for SUN. The SEP, [Formula: see text] and RPD in validation were 1.01[Formula: see text]mmol[Formula: see text]L[Formula: see text], 0.992 and 7.7, respectively. The prediction effect and wavelength complexity were better than those of EC-PLS. Our results showed that NIR spectroscopy combined with the EC-PLS and WSP-PLS methods enabled the high-precision analysis of SUN. WSP-PLS is a secondary optimization method that can further optimize any wavelength model obtained through other continuous or discrete strategies to establish a simple and better model.
Dynamical Behavior Analysis of Rubbing Rotor System under Asymmetric Oil Film Force
Authors: Tang Youfu , Lin Feng , Zou Qian
Published: July 2019

Rubbing is one of the most common and significant faults that exist in the rotor system. It exhibits extremely complicated dynamic behavior. Existing dynamic models are primarily based on the symmetrical rotor structure, in which the oil film forces at both ends of support are considered identical. However, in practice, the oil film force may be differently affected by multiple factors (e.g., viscosity of lubricants, the thickness of oil film, and clearance of journal bearing). In this study, a novel dynamic model of the rubbing rotor system under asymmetric oil film force was developed. Furthermore, based on the nonlinear rotor dynamic theory, its dynamic behavior with different parameters was analyzed, and the corresponding chaotic features were extracted. The results indicated that the evolution law of chaotic motion was more complicated, and the chaotic region of system response was obviously wider under the asymmetric oil film force than the symmetrical oil film force.
Prevalence of Syphilis among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care Clinic, Sede Muja District, South Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Yideg Yitbarek Getachew , Ayele Belete Achamyelew
Published: July 2019

Background. Syphilis is a disease caused by bacteria called Treponema pallidum. Major rout of transmission of this bacterium was through sexual and contact with mucocutaneous lesion. Untreated syphilis during pregnancy can greatly affect pregnancy outcome, resulting in spontaneous abortion and stillbirth. Objective. The objective of the study was to determine the seroprevalence of syphilis and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care unit at Sede Muja district, Northern Ethiopia. Methods and Materials. Facility based cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2018 to January 2019 in two health centers from Sede Muja district, Northwest Ethiopia. The study included a total of 210 participants. The entire participants were recruited by systematic random sampling method after proportional allocation of the sample size in the two health centers. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected by semistructured questioner. Two milliliter of blood was collected to determine seroprevalence of syphilis using VDRL test method. The data was analyzed by using SPSS version 21. The association between independent and dependent variables was determined using chi-square. P-value less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Result. Seroprevalence of syphilis was found to be 1.9% (95 CI, 0.5-3.5%). Women with multiple sexual partners and late trimester of pregnancy during first ANC visit were found to be significantly associated with seropositive syphilis. Conclusion. Syphilis remains a major problem in the study area. Seroprevalence of syphilis was significantly associated with women who have multiple sexual partners and late first ANC visit attendees in the study area. Therefore it is recommended to give health education about syphilis etiology and transmission as well as creating awareness about the importance of early ANC visit and follow-up regarding syphilis prevention.
Efficacy of Optimal Methods for Nonlinear Equations with Chemical Engineering Applications
Authors: Said Solaiman Obadah , Hashim Ishak
Published: July 2019

In this study, we propose a modified predictor‐corrector Newton‐Halley (MPCNH) method for solving nonlinear equations. The proposed sixteenth‐order MPCNH is free of second derivatives and has a high efficiency index. The convergence analysis of the modified method is discussed. Different problems were tested to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method. Some are real life problems such as a chemical equilibrium problem (conversion in a chemical reactor), azeotropic point of a binary solution, and volume from van der Waals equation. Several comparisons with other optimal and nonoptimal iterative techniques of equal order are presented to show the efficiency of the modified method and to clarify the question, are the optimal methods always good for solving nonlinear equations?
Tissue-Specific Oxidative Stress Modulation by Exercise: A Comparison between MICT and HIIT in an Obese Rat Model
Authors: Groussard Carole , Maillard Florie , Vazeille Emilie , Barnich Nicolas , Sirvent Pascal , Otero Yolanda F. , Combaret Lydie , Madeuf Elise , Sourdrille Antoine , Delcros Geoffroy , Etienne Monique , Teixeira Allison , Sauvanet Pierre , Pialoux Vincent , Boisseau Nathalie
Published: July 2019

Background and Aim. Exercise is an effective strategy to reduce obesity-induced oxidative stress. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of two training modalities (moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT)) on the pro/antioxidant status of different tissues in obese Zucker rats. Methods. Eight-week-old male Zucker rats (fa/fa, n=36) were subdivided in three groups: MICT, HIIT, and control (no exercise) groups. Trained animals ran on a treadmill (0° slope), 5 days/week for 10 weeks (MICT: 51 min at 12 m·min-1; HIIT: 6 sets of 3 min at 10 m·min-1 followed by 4 min at 18 m·min-1). Epididymal (visceral) and subcutaneous adipose tissue, gastrocnemius muscle, and plasma samples were collected to measure oxidative stress markers (advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL)), antioxidant system markers (ferric-reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities), and prooxidant enzymes (NADPH oxidase and xanthine oxidase (XO) activities, myeloperoxidase content). Results. Compared with the control, MICT increased GPx and catalase activities and the FRAP level in epididymal adipose tissue. HIIT increased the AOPP level in subcutaneous adipose tissue. In the muscle, HIIT increased both SOD and GPx activities and reduced the AOPP level, whereas MICT increased only SOD activity. Finally, plasma myeloperoxidase content was similarly decreased by both training modalities, whereas oxLDL was reduced only in the MICT group. Conclusion. Both HIIT and MICT improved the pro/antioxidant status. However, HIIT was more efficient than MICT in the skeletal muscle, whereas MICT was more efficient in epididymal adipose tissue. This suggests that oxidative stress responses to HIIT and MICT are tissue-specific. This could result in ROS generation via different pathways in these tissues. From a practical point of view, the two training modalities should be combined to obtain a global response in people with obesity.
Imaging of Mouse Brain Fixated in Ethanol in Micro-CT
Authors: Mrzílková Jana , Patzelt Matěj , Gallina Pasquale , Wurst Zdeněk , Šeremeta Martin , Dudák Jan , Krejčí František , Žemlička Jan , Musil Vladimír , Karch Jakub , Rosina Jozef , Zach Petr
Published: July 2019

Micro-CT imaging is a well-established morphological method for the visualization of animal models. We used ethanol fixation of the mouse brains to perform high-resolution micro-CT scans showing in great details brain grey and white matters. It was possible to identify more than 50 neuroanatomical structures on the 5 selected coronal sections. Among white matter structures, we identified fornix, medial lemniscus, crossed tectospinal pathway, mammillothalamic tract, and the sensory root of the trigeminal ganglion. Among grey matter structures, we identified basal nuclei, habenular complex, thalamic nuclei, amygdala, subparts of hippocampal formation, superior colliculi, Edinger–Westphal nucleus, and others. We suggest that micro-CT of the mouse brain could be used for neurohistological lesions evaluation as an alternative to classical neurohistology because it does not destroy brain tissue.
Subsynchronous Resonance and FACTS-Novel Control Strategy for Its Mitigation
Authors: Duc Tung Doan , Van Dai Le , Cao Quyen Le
Published: July 2019

The subsynchronous resonance (SSR) is an important problem in the power system, and especially the series compensated transmission lines may cause SSR in the turbine generators, such that it leads to the electrical instability at subsynchronous frequencies and potential turbine-generator shaft failures. Taking the Vietnamese Vungang thermal plants as an example, a shaft failure of Vungang I thermal power unit has occurred on November 24, 2015, due to SSR. The main cause for this failure is a resonance caused by the series capacitors on the 500 kV grid. This paper analyzes the SSR based on the location of shaft cracks and turbine generator mode shape for Vungang I and II thermal power plants. On the basis of that, it develops a novel control strategy for each Flexible AC Transmission system (FACTS) device as the thyristor controlled series compensator (TCSC), static VAR compensator (SVC), and static synchronous compensator (STATCOM). Then they are comparable to one another in order to choose a feasible solution for mitigating the SSR. The effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is verified via time domain simulation of the Vietnamese 500/220 kV transmission system using EMTP-RV and PSS/E programs. The obtained results show that the proposed strategy for SVC can be applied to immediately solve the difficulties encountering in the Vietnamese power system.
First Report of Gallbladder Volvulus Managed with a Robotic Approach
Authors: Bustos Roberto , Mashbari Hassan , Gangemi Antonio
Published: July 2019

Gallbladder volvulus (GV) is an axial twisting of the gallbladder (GB). If not treated on time, this condition has a mortality up to 6%. It is usually diagnosed intraoperatively, because it can mimic a typical acute cholecystitis. An 81-year-old female patient presented with an acute onset of right upper quadrant pain accompanied with nausea. The patient was admitted to receive treatment for acute cholecystitis after the findings of ultrasound imaging. Robotic-assisted cholecystectomy was the approach chosen. GV was diagnosed after initial diagnostic laparoscopy. Cholecystectomy was performed uneventfully. Indocyanine green fluorescence was used to assess the biliary anatomy. The postoperatory course went uneventful. The patient was discharged home on postoperatory day 2.
Myxedema Coma Complicated by Pancytopenia
Authors: Mupamombe Charles T. , Reyes Felix M. , Laskar Derek B. , Gorga Joseph
Published: July 2019

Hypothyroidism is common, with an extreme manifestation of myxedema coma if untreated. Hematologic consequences of myxedema coma include mild leukopenia and anemia, rarely pancytopenia. We present a patient with typical symptoms of myxedema coma, but found to be pancytopenic, with sustained response to levothyroxine and blood transfusion for anemia.
CoS/Nanocarbon Composite as a Catalytic Counter Electrode for Improved Performance of Quantum Dot-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Yang Wen , Sun Yang , Yang Peizhi , Chen Xiaobo
Published: July 2019

CoS/nanocarbon (NC) composites were prepared via a one-pot hydrothermal method and were used as counter electrodes (CEs) in quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSCs). The CoS/nanocarbon (NC) composite thin film CE has been prepared via a one-pot hydrothermal method. Addition of NC to the solution before hydrothermal treatment led to a CoS/NC composite with a good dispersion of conducting NC. The nanoscaled CoS in the composite CE provides abundant catalytic sites, and the carbon particle framework also acts as highly conductive paths for fast charge transport from the counter electrode (highly catalytic CoS active sites) to the photoanode. The optimized CoS/NC composite CE showed a two-order decrease in the charge-transfer resistance, compared to the pure CoS CE. The TiO2/CdS/CdSe/ZnS-based QDSC using the optimized CoS/NC composite CE shows enhanced photovoltaic performance with a power conversion efficiency of 4.46% and good stability (94.8% retention after 100 h continuous illumination).
Progress of Bamboo Recombination Technology in China
Authors: Huang Yuxiang , Qi Yue , Zhang Yahui , Yu Wenji
Published: July 2019

At present, China is the world's largest producer of bamboo resource possessor and bamboo processing. The main processing method of bamboo recombination technology is rolling and compaction, by which a reconstituted material with bamboo fibrotic veneer as matrix and phenolic resin as reinforcement is prepared. It has excellent physical and mechanical properties and can replace high-quality wood to manufacture various engineering structural materials and building decoration materials. This paper reviewed the research process and progress of bamboo recombination technology, the existing technical problems and prospects, in order to provide references for future research on bamboo recombination theory and production practice. In recent years, as a new material with controllable properties, designable structures, and adjustable dimensions, bamboo reconstituted materials have been comprehensively studied from the aspects of pressing process parameters, physicochemical mechanical properties evaluation system, and microstructure characterization, but the research is not comprehensive and has not in-depth view. In the future, the relationship between microstructure and performance should be emphatically studied to clarify the law of mechanical performance change and ultimate mechanical performance under synergistic enhancement effect, as well as the performance change and interface formation of the resin during the entire molding process. Meanwhile, the reliability and relevance of applied research should be further expanded, and the integration of natural and artificial aging environment, process and performance, and macro- and microscales should be strengthened.
Radar-Assisted UAV Detection and Identification Based on 5G in the Internet of Things
Authors: Zhao Jingcheng , Fu Xinru , Yang Zongkai , Xu Fengtong
Published: July 2019

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have broad application potential for the Internet of Things (IoT) due to their small size, low cost, and flexible control. At present, the main positioning method for UAVs is the use of GPS. However, GPS positioning may be affected by stronger electromagnetic signals from spoofing attacks. In this study, a radar-assisted positioning method based on 5G millimeter waves is proposed. In 5G end-to-end network slices, the rotors of UAVs can be detected and identified by deploying 5G millimeter wave radar. High-resolution range profile (HRRP) is used to obtain the UAV location in the detection zone. Micro-Doppler characteristics are used to identify the UAVs and the cepstrum method is used to extract the number and speed information of the UAV rotor. The sinusoidal frequency modulation (SFM) parameter optimization method is used to separate multiple UAVs. The proposed method provides information on the number of UAVs, the position of the UAV, the number of rotors, and the rotation speed of each rotor. The simulation results show that the proposed radar detection method is well suited for UAV detection and identification and provides a valid GPS-independent method for UAV tracking.
A Review of the Advantages and Limitations of Geophysical Investigations in Landslide Studies
Authors: Pazzi Veronica , Morelli Stefano , Fanti Riccardo
Published: July 2019

Landslide deformations involve approximately all geological materials (natural rocks, soil, artificial fill, or combinations of these materials) and can occur and develop in a large variety of volumes and shapes. The characterization of the material inhomogeneities and their properties, the study of the deformation processes, and the delimitation of boundaries and potential slip surfaces are not simple goals. Since the ‘70s, the international community (mainly geophysicists and lower geologists and geological engineers) has begun to employ, together with other techniques, geophysical methods to characterize and monitor landslides. Both the associated advantages and limitations have been highlighted over the years, and some drawbacks are still open. This review is focused on works of the last twelve years (2007-2018), and the main goal is to analyse the geophysical community efforts toward overcoming the geophysical technique limitations highlighted in the 2007 geophysics and landslide review. To achieve this aim, contrary to previous reviews that analysed the advantages and limitations of each technique using a “technique approach,” the analysis was carried out using a “material landslide approach” on the basis of the more recent landslides classification.
The Distribution of Dissolved Methane and Its Air-Sea Flux in the Plume of a Seep Field, Lingtou Promontory, South China Sea
Authors: Di Pengfei , Feng Dong , Chen Duofu
Published: July 2019

Methane (CH4), the most abundant hydrocarbon gas in the atmosphere, plays an important role in global climate change. Quantifying the dissolved methane and its air-sea flux from hydrocarbon seeps is therefore of great importance. Large quantities of natural gas are emitted from the seafloor to the coastal ocean near the Lingtou Promontory, South China Sea. We quantified concentrations of methane in surface and bottom waters at 48 stations in a 56 km2 study area. High spatial variability in dissolved methane concentrations was observed in the surface mixed layer (0.5 m water depth) and bottom water (water-sediment interface), with values ranging from 2.90 nmol L−1 to 13570.02 nmol L−1 and from 4.98 nmol L−1 to 31740.02 nmol L−1, respectively. The significant difference between concentrations of dissolved methane in surface and bottom waters suggests that most of the methane emitted from the seafloor is dissolved in the water column. The dissolution of methane in seawater may result in local oxygen depletion that may lead to ecological effects. The δ13C values of dissolved methane ranging from −59.76‰ to −48.59‰ indicate a mixture of biogenic and thermogenic gas sources. The average air-sea methane flux of Yinggehai Basin was 672.57 μmol m−2 d−1, which cannot be ignored in environment assessment. Coastal regions, especially with hydrocarbon seeps in shallow waters of the continental margin, may therefore be an important source of methane to the atmosphere.
Assessment of Anastomotic Perfusion in Left-Sided Robotic Assisted Colorectal Resection by Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Angiography
Authors: Shapera Emanuel , Hsiung Roger W.
Published: July 2019

Background. Indocyanine green fluorescent angiography (IcGA) has been used with success in guiding intraoperative management to prevent colorectal anastomotic complications. Prior studies in open and laparoscopic colorectal surgery, such as PILLAR II, have demonstrated a low anastomotic leak rate (1.4%). As the minimally invasive approach progresses from laparoscopic to robotic approach, the effect and safety of IcGA in assessing anastomotic perfusion in the latter deserve further investigation. Methods. The objective of the study was to determine the safety of IcGA in guiding intraoperative management of robotic assisted colorectal resection via perfusion assessment. The design was single-surgeon, retrospective case-control study. 74 patients underwent left-sided robotic assisted colorectal resection and anastomosis with IcGA guidance. 30 historical controls underwent left-sided robotic assisted colorectal resection and anastomosis without IcGA. Clinical, demographic, operative, and outcome variables were tabulated. Results. In the control group, 1 patient suffered a postoperative anastomotic stricture requiring no surgery, and 1 patient suffered an anastomotic dehiscence requiring return to the operating room. There were no anastomotic complications in the IcGA group, including 4 patients who underwent a change in the chosen level of anastomosis based on intraoperative IcGA. Conclusion. IcGA is safe to use as demonstrated by the very low rate of complications in this case series. It is also safe to rely on to guide re-resection and recreation of an anastomosis intraoperatively by demonstration of blood flow. This may help offset the loss of tactile feedback and assessment of tension in the robotic platform.
Improving Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm Using a Dynamic Reduction Strategy for Dimension Perturbation
Authors: Yu Gan , Zhou Hongzhi , Wang Hui
Published: July 2019

To accelerate the convergence speed of Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) algorithm, this paper proposes a Dynamic Reduction (DR) strategy for dimension perturbation. In the standard ABC, a new solution (food source) is obtained by modifying one dimension of its parent solution. Based on one‐dimensional perturbation, both new solutions and their parent solutions have high similarities. This will easily cause slow convergence speed. In our DR strategy, the number of dimension perturbations is assigned a large value at the initial search stage. More dimension perturbations can result in larger differences between offspring and their parent solutions. With the growth of iterations, the number of dimension perturbations dynamically decreases. Less dimension perturbations can reduce the dissimilarities between offspring and their parent solutions. Based on the DR, it can achieve a balance between exploration and exploitation by dynamically changing the number of dimension perturbations. To validate the proposed DR strategy, we embed it into the standard ABC and three well‐known ABC variants. Experimental study shows that the proposed DR strategy can efficiently accelerate the convergence and improve the accuracy of solutions.
Integration of Gene Expression Profile Data to Verify Hub Genes of Patients with Stanford A Aortic Dissection
Authors: Wang Weitie , Wang Tiance , Wang Yong , Piao Hulin , Li Bo , Zhu Zhicheng , Xu Rihao , Li Dan , Liu Kexiang
Published: July 2019

Thoracic aortic dissection (TAD) is a catastrophic disease worldwide, but the pathogenic genes and pathways are largely unclear. This study aims at integrating two gene expression profile datasets and verifying hub genes and pathways involved in TAD as well as exploring potential molecular mechanisms. We will combine our mRNAs expression profile (6 TAD tissues versus 6 non-TAD tissues) and GSE52093 downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The two mRNAs expression profiles contained 13 TAD aortic tissues and 11 non-TAD tissues. The two expression profile datasets were integrated and we found out coexpression of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using bioinformatics methods. The gene ontology and pathway enrichment of DEGs were performed by DAVID and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes online analyses, respectively. The protein-protein interaction networks of the DEGs were constructed according to the data from the STRING database. Cytohubber calculating result shows the top 10 hub genes with CDC20, AURKA, RFC4, MCM4, TYMS, MCM2, DLGAP5, FANCI, BIRC5, and POLE2. Module analysis revealed that TAD was associated with significant pathways including cell cycle, vascular smooth muscle contraction, and adrenergic signaling in cardiomyocytes. The qRT-PCR result showed that the expression levels of all the hub genes were significantly increased in OA samples (p < 0.05), and these candidate genes could be used as potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets of TAD.