bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hazardous Waste Disposal Enterprise Selection in China Using Hesitant Fuzzy PROMETHEE
Authors: Liang Xuedong , Miao Jinrui , Li Yanjie , Yang Xu , Li Zhi
Published: June 2020

Because of the urgent need to protect the environment, it has become vital to deal with the dangers and particularities associated with the growth in hazardous industrial waste. Governments have begun to expand their investments in the environmental protection industry and have tightened enterprise environmental management requirements. The 13th Five-Year Plan period in China, in particular, increased the focus on the environmental supervision and enterprise environmental management. Because of the specific qualities of many types of hazardous waste, most enterprises do not have the ability to process hazardous waste and therefore must outsource the disposal to third-party contractors. However, choosing suitable hazardous waste disposal enterprises (HWDE) can be difficult. Therefore, to assist in the selection of appropriate hazardous waste disposal enterprises, this paper developed a comprehensive evaluation index system for hazardous waste disposal enterprises (EISHWDE). As multi-criteria decision-making problems involve qualitative evaluations that have semantic ambiguity, hesitant fuzzy linguistic term sets (HFLTS) were introduced to increase the accuracy of the evaluation process, an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) used to determine the objective indicator weights, and PROMETHEE (Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluation) employed to determine the final order for the selected enterprises. This research developed a scientific evaluation model that industrial waste enterprises (IWE) and related organizations could use to objectively and systematically select suitable hazardous waste disposal enterprises. Then, the problems of uncertainty and fuzzy semantics in the evaluation process were solved, and the weight of each selection criteria and the ranking of alternative enterprises are given.
A Yeast-Based Model for Hereditary Motor and Sensory Neuropathies: A Simple System for Complex, Heterogeneous Diseases
Authors: Rzepnikowska Weronika , Kaminska Joanna , Kabzińska Dagmara , Binięda Katarzyna , Kochański Andrzej
Published: June 2020

Charcot–Marie–Tooth (CMT) disease encompasses a group of rare disorders that are characterized by similar clinical manifestations and a high genetic heterogeneity. Such excessive diversity presents many problems. Firstly, it makes a proper genetic diagnosis much more difficult and, even when using the most advanced tools, does not guarantee that the cause of the disease will be revealed. Secondly, the molecular mechanisms underlying the observed symptoms are extremely diverse and are probably different for most of the disease subtypes. Finally, there is no possibility of finding one efficient cure for all, or even the majority of CMT diseases. Every subtype of CMT needs an individual approach backed up by its own research field. Thus, it is little surprise that our knowledge of CMT disease as a whole is selective and therapeutic approaches are limited. There is an urgent need to develop new CMT models to fill the gaps. In this review, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of yeast as a model system in which to study CMT diseases. We show how this single-cell organism may be used to discriminate between pathogenic variants, to uncover the mechanism of pathogenesis, and to discover new therapies for CMT disease.
Early Cellular Responses Induced by Sedimentary Calcite-Processed Particles in Bright Yellow 2 Tobacco Cultured Cells
Authors: Tran Daniel , Zhao Tingting , Arbelet-Bonnin Delphine , Kadono Takashi , Meimoun Patrice , Cangémi Sylvie , Kawano Tomonori , Errakhi Rafik , Bouteau François
Published: June 2020

Calcite processed particles (CaPPs, Megagreen®) elaborated from sedimentary limestone rock, and finned by tribomecanic process were found to increase photosynthetic CO2 fixation grapevines and stimulate growth of various cultured plants. Due to their processing, the CaPPs present a jagged shape with some invaginations below the micrometer size. We hypothesised that CaPPs could have a nanoparticle (NP)-like effects on plants. Our data show that CaPPs spontaneously induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) in liquid medium. These ROS could in turn induce well-known cellular events such as increase in cytosolic Ca2+, biotic ROS generation and activation of anion channels indicating that these CaPPs could activate various signalling pathways in a NP-like manner.
Decreased Excretion of Urinary Exosomal Aquaporin-2 in a Puromycin Aminonucleoside-Induced Nephrotic Syndrome Model
Authors: Abdeen Ahmed , Sonoda Hiroko , Kaito Ayaha , Oshikawa-Hori Sayaka , Fujimoto Naruki , Ikeda Masahiro
Published: June 2020

Urinary exosomes, small extracellular vesicles present in urine, are secreted from all types of renal epithelial cells. Aquaporin-2 (AQP2), a vasopressin-regulated water channel protein, is known to be selectively excreted into the urine through exosomes (UE-AQP2), and its renal expression is decreased in nephrotic syndrome. However, it is still unclear whether excretion of UE-AQP2 is altered in nephrotic syndrome. In this study, we examined the excretion of UE-AQP2 in an experimental rat model of nephrotic syndrome induced by the administration of puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN). Rats were assigned to two groups: a control group administered saline and a PAN group given a single intraperitoneal injection of PAN (125 mg/kg) at day 0. The experiment was continued for 8 days, and samples of urine, blood, and tissue were collected on days 2, 5, and 8. The blood and urine parameters revealed that PAN induced nephrotic syndrome on days 5 and 8, and decreases in the excretion of UE-AQP2 were detected on days 2 through 8 in the PAN group. Immunohistochemistry showed that the renal expression of AQP2 was decreased on days 5 and 8. The release of exosomal marker proteins into the urine through UEs was decreased on day 5 and increased on day 8. These data suggest that UE-AQP2 is decreased in PAN-induced nephrotic syndrome and that this reflects its renal expression in the marked proteinuria phase after PAN treatment.
Seafood Waste as Attractive Source of Chitin and Chitosan Production and Their Applications
Authors: Santos Vanessa P. , Marques Nathália S. S. , Maia Patrícia C. S. V. , Lima Marcos Antonio Barbosa de , Franco Luciana de Oliveira , Campos-Takaki Galba Maria de
Published: June 2020

Chitosan is a cationic polymer obtained by deacetylation of chitin, found abundantly in crustacean, insect, arthropod exoskeletons, and molluscs. The process of obtaining chitin by the chemical extraction method comprises the steps of deproteinization, demineralization, and discoloration. To obtain chitosan, the deacetylation of chitin is necessary. These polymers can also be extracted through the biological extraction method involving the use of microorganisms. Chitosan has biodegradable and biocompatible properties, being applied in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, biomedical, chemical, and textile industries. Chitosan and its derivatives may be used in the form of gels, beads, membranes, films, and sponges, depending on their application. Polymer blending can also be performed to improve the mechanical properties of the bioproduct. This review aims to provide the latest information on existing methods for chitin and chitosan recovery from marine waste as well as their applications.
Invasive Fungal Diseases in Kidney Transplant Recipients: Risk Factors for Mortality
Authors: Seok Hyeri , Huh Kyungmin , Cho Sun Young , Kang Cheol-In , Chung Doo Ryeon , Huh Woo Seong , Park Jae Berm , Peck Kyong Ran
Published: June 2020

Background: Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is common in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients and contributes to high morbidity and mortality. Although kidney transplantation (KT) is a commonly performed SOT, data on the risk factors for IFD-related mortality are limited. Methods: A 1:2 retrospective case-control study was performed in an experienced single center in the Republic of Korea. We reviewed the electronic medical records of patients with IFD after KT between February 1995 and March 2015. Results: Of 1963 kidney transplant recipients, 48 (2.5%) were diagnosed with IFD. The median interval from KT to IFD diagnosis was 172 days. Invasive aspergillosis (IA) was the most common, followed by invasive candidiasis (IC). Diabetes mellitus (DM) (odds ratio (OR) 3.72, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.34–10.31, p = 0.011) and acute rejection (OR 3.41, 95% CI 1.41–8.21, p = 0.006) were associated with IFD development. In the subgroup analyses, concomitant bacterial infection was associated with IC development (OR 20.10, 95% CI 3.60–112.08, p = 0.001), and delayed graft function was associated with IA occurrence (OR 10.60, 95% CI 1.05–106.84, p = 0.045). The 12-week mortality rate in all patients was 50.0%. Mortality rates were significantly higher in older patients (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.06, 95% CI 1.02–1.11, p = 0.004), or those with DM (aHR 2.61, 95% CI 1.02–6.68, p = 0.044), deceased donor transplantation (aHR 2.68, 95% CI 1.03–6.95, p = 0.043), lymphocyte-depleting antibody usage (aHR 0.26, 95% CI 0.08–0.80, p = 0.019), acute rejection (aHR 0.38, 95% CI 0.15–0.97, p = 0.044), and concomitant bacterial infection (aHR 8.76, 95% CI 1.62–47.51, p = 0.012). Conclusions: A total of 50% of IFD cases occurred six months or later after transplantation. The IFD-related mortality rate was high in kidney transplant recipients despite the low incidence. DM and acute rejection were associated with high mortality, as well as IFD development. As old age, deceased donor transplantation, lymphocyte-depleting antibody usage, and concomitant bacterial infection are risk factors for IFD-related mortality, efforts for its early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are required.
Modelling the Evolution of COVID-19 in High-Incidence European Countries and Regions: Estimated Number of Infections and Impact of Past and Future Intervention Measures
Authors: Fernández-Recio Juan
Published: June 2020

A previously developed mechanistic model of COVID-19 transmission has been adapted and applied here to study the evolution of the disease and the effect of intervention measures in some European countries and territories where the disease has had a major impact. A clear impact of the major intervention measures on the reproduction number (Rt) has been found in all studied countries and territories, as already suggested by the drop in the number of deaths over time. Interestingly, the impact of such major intervention measures seems to be the same in most of these countries. The model has also provided realistic estimates of the total number of infections, active cases and future outcomes. While the predictive capabilities of the model are much more uncertain before the peak of the outbreak, we could still reliably predict the evolution of the disease after a major intervention by assuming the subsequent reproduction number from the current study. A greater challenge is to foresee the long-term impact of softer intervention measures, but this model can estimate the outcome of different scenarios and help to plan changes for the implementation of control measures in a given country or region.
The Functional Relevance of Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Patients with Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy
Authors: d’Avanzo Stefania , Ciavarro Marco , Pavone Luigi , Pasqua Gabriele , Ricciardi Francesco , Bartolo Marcello , Solari Domenico , Somma Teresa , de Divitiis Oreste , Cappabianca Paolo , Innocenzi Gualtiero
Published: June 2020

(1) Background: In addition to conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has been investigated as a potential diagnostic and predictive tool for patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). In this preliminary study, we evaluated the use of quantitative DTI in the clinical practice as a possible measure to correlate with upper limbs function. (2) Methods: A total of 11 patients were enrolled in this prospective observational study. Fractional anisotropy (FA) values was extracted from DTI data before and after surgery using a GE Signa 1.5 T MRI scanner. The Nine-Hole Peg Test and a digital dynamometer were used to measure dexterity and hand strength, respectively. (3) Results: We found a significant increase of FA values after surgery, in particular below the most compressed level (p = 0.044) as well as an improvement in postoperative dexterity and hand strength. Postoperative FA values moderately correlate with hand dexterity (r = 0.4272, R2 = 0.0735, p = 0.19 for the right hand; r = 0.2087, R2 = 0.2265, p = 0.53 for the left hand). (4) Conclusion: FA may be used as a marker of myelopathy and could represent a promising diagnostic value in patients affected by DCM. Surgical decompression can improve the clinical outcome of these patients, especially in terms of the control of finger-hand coordination and dexterity.
Long-Term Effects in Bone Mineral Density after Different Bariatric Procedures in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Outcomes of a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Guerrero-Pérez Fernando , Casajoana Anna , Gómez-Vaquero Carmen , Virgili Nuria , López-Urdiales Rafael , Hernández-Montoliu Laura , Pujol-Gebelli Jordi , Osorio Javier , Prats Anna , Vidal-Alabró Anna , Pérez-Maraver Manuel , Fernández-Veledo Sonia , Vendrell Joan , Vilarrasa Nuria
Published: June 2020

There is scant evidence of the long-term effects of bariatric surgery on bone mineral density (BMD). We compared BMD changes in patients with severe obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) 5 years after randomization to metabolic gastric bypass (mRYGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and greater curvature plication (GCP). We studied the influence of first year gastrointestinal hormone changes on final bone outcomes. Forty-five patients, averaging 49.4 (7.8) years old and body mass index (BMI) 39.4 (1.9) kg/m2, were included. BMD at lumbar spine (LS) was lower after mRYGB compared to SG and GCP: 0.89 [0.82;0.94] vs. 1.04 [0.91;1.16] vs. 0.99 [0.89;1.12], p = 0.020. A higher percentage of LS osteopenia was present after mRYGB 78.6% vs. 33.3% vs. 50.0%, respectively. BMD reduction was greater in T2D remitters vs. non-remitters. Weight at fifth year predicted BMD changes at the femoral neck (FN) (adjusted R2: 0.3218; p = 0.002), and type of surgery (mRYGB) and menopause predicted BMD changes at LS (adjusted R2: 0.2507; p < 0.015). In conclusion, mRYGB produces higher deleterious effects on bone at LS compared to SG and GCP in the long-term. Women in menopause undergoing mRYGB are at highest risk of bone deterioration. Gastrointestinal hormone changes after surgery do not play a major role in BMD outcomes.
Effectiveness of Percutaneous Electrolysis in Supraspinatus Tendinopathy: A Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rodríguez-Huguet Manuel , Góngora-Rodríguez Jorge , Rodríguez-Huguet Pablo , Ibañez-Vera Alfonso Javier , Rodríguez-Almagro Daniel , Martín-Valero Rocío , Díaz-Fernández Ángeles , Lomas-Vega Rafael
Published: June 2020

Supraspinatus tendinopathy is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain. Many studies support conservative treatments such as exercise, trigger point dry needling or corticosteroid injections. Otherwise, a minimally invasive approach with percutaneous electrolysis (PE) has also been used successfully in shoulder pain, although evidence about its long-term effects is scarce. The aim of this trial was to determine the effects of PE on supraspinatus tendinopathy compared with trigger point dry needling (TDN). Thirty-six patients with supraspinatus tendinopathy were randomly assigned to either a PE group (n = 18) or a TDN group (n = 18). Both groups also performed eccentric exercises. The main outcome to be measured was the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), but the shoulder range of motion (ROM) and trigger point pressure pain threshold (PPT) were also considered. A one-year follow-up was conducted. Significant differences favoring the PE group were found regarding pain at one-year follow-up (p = 0.002). The improvement achieved in the PE group was greater in the NPRS (p < 0.001), proximal PPT, middle PPT, distal PPT (all p < 0.001) and ranges of movement. PE seems to be more effective than TDN in relieving pain and improving ROM and PPT supraspinatus values in patients with supraspinatus tendinopathy, both right after treatment and at one-year follow-up.
Differential Expression of MicroRNAs in Silent and Functioning Corticotroph Tumors
Authors: García-Martínez Araceli , Fuentes-Fayos Antonio C. , Fajardo Carmen , Lamas Cristina , Cámara Rosa , López-Muñoz Beatriz , Aranda Ignacio , Luque Raúl M. , Picó Antonio
Published: June 2020

The potential role of miRNAs in the silencing mechanisms of pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) has not been addressed. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the expression levels and the potential associated role of some miRNAs, pathways, and transcription factors in the silencing mechanisms of corticotroph tumors (CTs). Accordingly, the expression of miR-375, miR-383, miR-488, miR-200a and miR-103; of PKA, MAP3K8, MEK, MAPK3, NGFIB, NURR1, PITX1, and STAT3 were analyzed via qRT-PCR in 23 silent and 24 functioning CTs. miR-200a and miR-103 showed significantly higher expression in silent than in functioning CTs, even after eliminating the bias of tumor size, therefore enabling the differentiation between the two variants. Additionally, miR-383 correlated negatively with TBX19 in silent CTs, a transcription factor related with the processing of POMC that can participate in the silencing mechanisms of CTs. Finally, the gene expression levels of miR-488, miR-200a, and miR-103 were significantly higher in macroadenomas (functioning and silent) than in microadenomas. The evidence from this study indicates that miRNAs could be involved in the pathophysiology of CTs. The translational implications of these findings suggest that pharmacological treatments specifically targeting these miRNAs could become a promising therapeutic option for these patients.
Exercise before, during, and after Hospitalization for Allogeneic Hematological Stem Cell Transplant: A Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Santa Mina Daniel , Dolan Lianne B. , Lipton Jeffrey H. , Au Darren , Camacho Pérez Encarna , Franzese Alyssa , Alibhai Shabbir M. H. , Jones Jennifer M. , Chang Eugene
Published: June 2020

People with cancer who undergo allogeneic hematological stem cell transplant (allo-HSCT) experience significant deconditioning that can compromise quality of life. Exercise has shown to be beneficial before or after allo-HSCT; however, little is known about exercise therapy delivered across the continuum of care. We conducted a feasibility randomized controlled trial of exercise delivered prior to admission, during the inpatient stay, and after discharge versus control in people with planned allo-HSCT. Feasibility was assessed via recruitment and retention rates, the incidence of adverse events, and adherence to the exercise prescription. Estimates of efficacy were measured at baseline, one week prior to hospital admission, and 100 days and one year after transplant. The recruitment and retention rates were 20% and 33%, respectively. One serious adverse event occurred during the baseline six-minute walk test that precluded participation in the study and no adverse events were associated with the intervention. From baseline to pre-transplant, the intervention group improved six-minute walk test distances by 45 m (95% CI: −18.0 to 108.7)—a finding that warrants further investigation with an adequately powered trial. Our study contributes important feasibility considerations and pilot data for future exercise intervention research in allo-HSCT recipients.
Optimal Parameters of Deep Brain Stimulation in Essential Tremor: A Meta-Analysis and Novel Programming Strategy
Authors: Bogdan I. Daria , Laar Teus van , Oterdoom D.L. Marinus , Drost Gea , van Dijk J. Marc C. , Beudel Martijn
Published: June 2020

The programming of deep brain stimulation (DBS) parameters for tremor is laborious and empirical. Despite extensive efforts, the end-result is often suboptimal. One reason for this is the poorly understood relationship between the stimulation parameters’ voltage, pulse width, and frequency. In this study, we aim to improve DBS programming for essential tremor (ET) by exploring a new strategy. At first, the role of the individual DBS parameters in tremor control was characterized using a meta-analysis documenting all the available parameters and tremor outcomes. In our novel programming strategy, we applied 10 random combinations of stimulation parameters in eight ET-DBS patients with suboptimal tremor control. Tremor severity was assessed using accelerometers and immediate and sustained patient-reported outcomes (PRO’s), including the occurrence of side-effects. The meta-analysis showed no substantial relationship between individual DBS parameters and tremor suppression. Nevertheless, with our novel programming strategy, a significantly improved (accelerometer p = 0.02, PRO p = 0.02) and sustained (p = 0.01) tremor suppression compared to baseline was achieved. Less side-effects were encountered compared to baseline. Our pilot data show that with this novel approach, tremor control can be improved in ET patients with suboptimal tremor control on DBS. In addition, this approach proved to have a beneficial effect on stimulation-related complications.
Prediction of Submucosal Invasion for Gastric Neoplasms in Endoscopic Images Using Deep-Learning
Authors: Cho Bum-Joo , Bang Chang Seok , Lee Jae Jun , Seo Chang Won , Kim Ju Han
Published: June 2020

Endoscopic resection is recommended for gastric neoplasms confined to mucosa or superficial submucosa. The determination of invasion depth is based on gross morphology assessed in endoscopic images, or on endoscopic ultrasound. These methods have limited accuracy and pose an inter-observer variability. Several studies developed deep-learning (DL) algorithms classifying invasion depth of gastric cancers. Nevertheless, these algorithms are intended to be used after definite diagnosis of gastric cancers, which is not always feasible in various gastric neoplasms. This study aimed to establish a DL algorithm for accurately predicting submucosal invasion in endoscopic images of gastric neoplasms. Pre-trained convolutional neural network models were fine-tuned with 2899 white-light endoscopic images. The prediction models were subsequently validated with an external dataset of 206 images. In the internal test, the mean area under the curve discriminating submucosal invasion was 0.887 (95% confidence interval: 0.849–0.924) by DenseNet−161 network. In the external test, the mean area under the curve reached 0.887 (0.863–0.910). Clinical simulation showed that 6.7% of patients who underwent gastrectomy in the external test were accurately qualified by the established algorithm for potential endoscopic resection, avoiding unnecessary operation. The established DL algorithm proves useful for the prediction of submucosal invasion in endoscopic images of gastric neoplasms.
Long-Term Visual/Anatomic Outcome in Patients with Fovea-Involving Fibrovascular Pigment Epithelium Detachment Presenting Choroidal Neovascularization on Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Kim Kyung Tae , Lee Hwanho , Kim Jin Young , Lee Suhwan , Chae Ju Byung , Kim Dong Yoon
Published: June 2020

Background: To evaluate long-term visual/anatomic outcome after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy in patients with fovea-involving fibrovascular pigment epithelium detachment (PED) presenting with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) on optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Methods: Patients with fibrovascular PED or subretinal CNV confirmed by OCTA who were treated by a relaxed treat-and-extend regimen for 2 years were retrospectively reviewed. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central subfield retinal thickness (CST) before and after anti-VEGF injection were analyzed. Furthermore, changes in photoreceptor layer (PRL) thickness and outer retinal bands in the fovea after injection were evaluated. Results: A total of 31 eyes with fibrovascular PED and 24 eyes with subretinal CNV were included. Following a relaxed treat-and-extend regimen with anti-VEGF agents, BCVA and CST were improved, and the PRL thickness was decreased significantly. There were no differences in BCVA, CST, changes in PRL thickness, or the status of outer retinal bands between the groups. However, the difference in the amount of decrease in PRL thickness between the two groups was increased at 2 years, and the slope tended to be steeper in the subretinal CNV group. Conclusions: Exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD) with fibrovascular PED or subretinal CNV showed good visual/anatomic outcomes after anti-VEGF treatment, regardless of the CNV type. By 2 years, fibrovascular PED did not have an additional protective effect on the outer retina, compared with subretinal CNV over 2 years. Further follow-up study might be needed to conclude that fibrovascular PED has a protective effect on the surrounding photoreceptor area.
Impact of Acute Hemoglobin Falls in Heart Failure Patients: A Population Study
Authors: Lopez Cristina , Holgado Jose Luis , Fernandez Antonio , Sauri Inmaculada , Uso Ruth , Trillo Jose Luis , Vela Sara , Bea Carlos , Nuñez Julio , Ferrer Ana , Gamez Javier , Ruiz Adrian , Redon Josep
Published: June 2020

Aims: This study assessed the impact of acute hemoglobin (Hb) falls in heart failure (HF) patients. Methods: HF patients with repeated Hb values over time were included. Falls in Hb greater than 30% were considered to represent an acute episode of anemia and the risk of hospitalization and all-cause mortality after the first episode was assessed. Results: In total, 45,437 HF patients (54.9% female, mean age 74.3 years) during a follow-up average of 2.9 years were analyzed. A total of 2892 (6.4%) patients had one episode of Hb falls, 139 (0.3%) had more than one episode, and 342 (0.8%) had concomitant acute kidney injury (AKI). Acute heart failure occurred in 4673 (10.3%) patients, representing 3.6/100 HF patients/year. The risk of hospitalization increased with one episode (Hazard Ratio = 1.30, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.19–1.43), two or more episodes (HR = 1.59, 95% CI 1.14–2.23, and concurrent AKI (HR = 1.61, 95% CI 1.27–2.03). A total of 10,490 patients have died, representing 8.1/100 HF patients/year. The risk of mortality was HR = 2.20 (95% CI 2.06–2.35) for one episode, HR = 3.14 (95% CI 2.48–3.97) for two or more episodes, and HR = 3.20 (95% CI 2.73–3.75) with AKI. In the two or more episodes and AKI groups, Hb levels at the baseline were significantly lower (10.2–11.4 g/dL) than in the no episodes group (12.8 g/dL), and a higher and significant mortality in these subgroups was observed. Conclusions: Hb falls in heart failure patients identified those with a worse prognosis requiring a more careful evaluation and follow-up.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer from Genomics to Therapeutics: A Framework for Community Practice Integration to Arrive at Personalized Therapy Strategies
Authors: Rajurkar Swapnil , Mambetsariev Isa , Pharaon Rebecca , Leach Benjamin , Tan TingTing , Kulkarni Prakash , Salgia Ravi
Published: June 2020

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a heterogeneous disease, and therapeutic management has advanced with the identification of various key oncogenic mutations that promote lung cancer tumorigenesis. Subsequent studies have developed targeted therapies against these oncogenes in the hope of personalizing therapy based on the molecular genomics of the tumor. This review presents approved treatments against actionable mutations in NSCLC as well as promising targets and therapies. We also discuss the current status of molecular testing practices in community oncology sites that would help to direct oncologists in lung cancer decision-making. We propose a collaborative framework between community practice and academic sites that can help improve the utilization of personalized strategies in the community, through incorporation of increased testing rates, virtual molecular tumor boards, vendor-based oncology clinical pathways, and an academic-type singular electronic health record system.
Parkinson’s Disease Multimodal Complex Treatment (PD-MCT): Analysis of Therapeutic Effects and Predictors for Improvement
Authors: Hartelt Elke , Scherbaum Raphael , Kinkel Manuel , Gold Ralf , Muhlack Siegfried , Tönges Lars
Published: June 2020

Parkinson’s disease Multimodal Complex Treatment (PD-MCT) is a multidisciplinary inpatient treatment approach that has been demonstrated to improve motor function and quality of life in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). In this study, we assessed the efficacy of PD-MCT and calculated predictors for improvement. We performed a prospective analysis in a non-randomized, open-label observational patient cohort. Study examinations were done at baseline (BL), at discharge after two-weeks of inpatient treatment (DC) and at a six-week follow-up examination (FU). Besides Movement Disorders Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) III as a primary outcome, motor performance was measured by the Timed Up-and-Go (TUG), the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Perdue Pegboard Test (PPT). Until DC, motor performance improved significantly in several parameters and was largely maintained until FU (MDS-UPDRS III BL-to-DC: −4.7 ± 1.2 (SE) p = 0.0012, BL-to-FU: −6.1 ± 1.3 p = 0.0001; TUG BL-to-DC: −2.5 ± 0.9 p = 0.015, BL-to-FU: 2.4 ± 0.9 p = 0.027; BBS BL-to-DC: 2.4 ± 0.7 p = 0.003, BL-to-FU: 1.3 ± 0.7 p = 0.176, PPT BL-to-DC: 3.0 ± 0.5 p = 0.000004, BL-to-FU: 1.7 ± 0.7 p = 0.059). Overall, nontremor items were more therapy responsive than tremor items. Motor complications evaluated with MDS-UPDRS IV occurred significantly less frequent at DC (−1.8 ± 0.5 p = 0.002). Predictor analyses revealed an influence of initial motor impairment and disease severity on the treatment response in different motor aspects. In summary, we demonstrate a significant positive treatment effect of PD-MCT on motor function of PD patients which can be maintained in several parameters for an extended time period of six weeks and identify predictors for an improvement of motor function.
Sinus Rhythm Conduction Properties across Bachmann’s Bundle: Impact of Underlying Heart Disease and Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Teuwen Christophe P. , Does Lisette J.M.E. van der , Kik Charles , Mouws Elisabeth M.J.P. , Lanters Eva A.H. , Knops Paul , Taverne Yannick J.H.J. , Bogers Ad J.J.C. , de Groot Natasja M.S.
Published: June 2020

Valvular heart disease (VHD) is a common risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF). Conduction abnormalities (CA) during sinus rhythm (SR) across Bachmann’s bundle (BB) are associated with AF development. The study goal is to compare electrophysiological characteristics across BB during SR between patients with ischemic (IHD) and/or VHD either with or without ischemic heart disease ((I)VHD), with/without AF history using high-resolution intraoperative epicardial mapping. In total, 304 patients (IHD: n = 193, (I)VHD: n = 111) were mapped; 40 patients (13%) had a history of AF. In 116 patients (38%) there was a mid-entry site with a trend towards more mid-entry sites in patients with (I)VHD vs. IHD (p = 0.061), whereas patients with AF had significant more mid-entry sites than without AF (p = 0.007). CA were present in 251 (95%) patients without AF compared to 39 (98%) with AF. The amount of CA was comparable in patients with IHD and (I)VHD (p > 0.05); AF history was positively associated with the amount of CA (p < 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed 85.0% sensitivity and 86.4% specificity for cut-off values of CA lines of respectively ≤ 6 mm and ≥ 26 mm. Patients without a mid-entry site or long CA lines (≥ 12 mm) were unlikely to have AF (sensitivity 90%, p = 0.002). There are no significant differences in entry-sites of wavefronts and long lines of CA between patients with IHD compared to (I)VHD. However, patients with AF have more wavefronts entering in the middle of BB and a higher incidence of long CA lines compared to patients without a history of AF. Moreover, in case of absence of a mid-entry site or long line of CA, patients most likely have no history of AF.
Temperament and Character Profile and Its Clinical Correlates in Male Patients with Dual Schizophrenia
Authors: Río-Martínez Laura , Marquez-Arrico Julia E. , Prat Gemma , Adan Ana
Published: June 2020

Personality traits are relevant in understanding substance use disorders (SUD) and schizophrenia (SZ), but few works have also included patients with dual schizophrenia (SZ+) and personality traits. We explored personality profile in a sample of 165 male patients under treatment, using the Temperament and Character Inventory-Revised. The participants were assigned to three groups of 55 patients each, according to previous diagnosis: SUD, SZ- and SZ+ (without/with SUD). We analyzed their clinical characteristics, relating them to personality dimensions. The SUD and SZ+ groups scored higher than SZ- in Novelty/Sensation Seeking. SZ- and SZ+ presented higher Harm Avoidance and lower Persistence than the SUD group. SZ+ patients showed the lowest levels of Self-directedness, while SZ- and SZ+ had higher scores in Self-transcendence than the SUD group. Several clinical characteristics were associated with personality dimensions depending on diagnosis, and remarkably so for psychiatric symptoms in the SZ- and SZ+ groups. The three groups had a maladaptive personality profile compared to general population. Our results point to different profiles for SUD versus SZ, while both profiles appear combined in the SZ+ group, with extreme scores in some traits. Thus, considering personality endophenotypes in SZ+ could help in designing individualized interventions for this group.
Improving the Prognostic Performance of SUVmax in 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron-Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Using Tumor-to-Liver and Tumor-to-Blood Standard Uptake Ratio for Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer Treated with Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Chong Gun Oh , Jeong Shin Young , Lee Yoon Hee , Park Shin-Hyung , Lee Hyun Jung , Lee Sang-Woo , Hong Dae Gy , Lee Yoon Soon
Published: June 2020

Objective: We sought to evaluate whether the 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake normalization of the primary tumor to both the liver and blood pool and lymph nodes to both the liver and blood pool can enhance the discrimination for prognosis prediction in patients with cervical cancer. Methods: A total of 156 patients with cervical cancer (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stages IIB–IV) treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) were enrolled. The maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of tumor (tSUVmax) and the lymph node (nSUVmax) divided by the SUVmean of the liver (tumor-to-liver ratio (TLR) and node-to-liver (NLR)) and blood pool (tumor-to-blood ratio (TBR) and node-to-blood ratio (NBR)) were investigated. Univariate and multivariate analyses of disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were performed using clinical and metabolic parameters. A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to compare the accuracy of the metabolic parameters. Results: The multivariate analysis revealed that NLR (hazard ratio ((HR): 3.54; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.53–8.19; p = 0.0032) and NBR (HR: 3.38; 95% CI: 1.02–11.19; p = 0.0457)) were independent prognostic factors for DFS, while TLR (HR: 4.16; 95% CI: 1.19–14.50; p = 0.0252), TBR (HR: 3.01; 95% CI: 1.04–8.70; p = 0.0415), NLR (HR: 4.84; 95% CI: 1.58–14.81; p = 0.0057), and NBR (HR: 6.87; 95% CI: 1.55–30.54; p = 0.0113) were significant prognostic factors for OS. The normalization of tSUVmax to the liver or blood pool enhanced the discrimination for prediction of recurrence (tSUVmax vs. TLR; p = 0.0056 and tSUVmax vs. TBR; p = 0.0099) and death (tSUVmax vs. TLR; p < 0.0001 and tSUVmax vs. TBR; p = 0.0001). Conclusions: The normalization of tSUVmax was an independent prognostic factor and improved the discrimination for the prediction of tumor recurrence and death in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer treated with CCRT.
Hot Gas Forming of Aluminum Alloy Tubes Using Flame Heating
Authors: Talebi-Anaraki Ali , Chougan Mehdi , Loh-Mousavi Mohsen , Maeno Tomoyoshi
Published: June 2020

Hot metal gas forming (HMGF) is a desirable way for the automotive industry to produce complex metallic parts with poor formability, such as aluminum alloys. A simple hot gas forming method was developed to form aluminum alloy tubes using flame heating. An aluminum alloy tube was heated by a flame torch while the tube was rotated and compressed using a lathe machine and simultaneously pressurized with a constant air pressure. The effects of the internal pressure and axial feeding on expansion and wall thickness distribution were examined. The results showed that the proposed gas forming method was effective for forming aluminum alloy tubes. It was also indicated that axial feeding is a vital parameter to prevent reductions in wall thickness by supplying the material flow during the forming process.
Deep Eutectic Solvents Based Ultrasonic Extraction of Polysaccharides from Edible Brown Seaweed Sargassum horneri
Authors: Nie Jinggui , Chen Danting , Lu Yanbin
Published: June 2020

In this work, a method for ultrasonic extraction of polysaccharides from Sargassum horneri using deep eutectic solvents was proposed. The studied deep eutectic solvents were composed of choline chloride, 1,2-propanediol and water. Based on the single-factor experiment results, four experimental factors were systematically evaluated, giving the optimal extraction conditions as follows: molar ratio of choline chloride to 1,2-propanediol of 1:2, water content of 30% (v/v), solid-liquid ratio of 1:30 (g/mL), and the extraction temperature of 70 °C. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction were utilized to investigate changes in the chemical characteristic of extracted polysaccharides. The results indicated that deep eutectic solvents had stronger protein and calcium carbonate removal ability than that of a conventional hot water extraction method. Moreover, in vitro antioxidant activity tests exhibited that the obtained polysaccharides had significant inhibition effects on DPPH and ABTS radicals. The proposed deep eutectic solvents assisted ultrasonic extraction protocol was considered to be a green, fast and effective protocol for extracting polysaccharides from Sargassum horneri.
Aspergillus fumigatus Protease Alkaline Protease 1 (Alp1): A New Therapeutic Target for Fungal Asthma
Authors: Druey Kirk M. , McCullough Morgan , Krishnan Ramaswamy
Published: June 2020

We review three recent findings that have fundamentally altered our understanding of causative mechanisms underlying fungal-related asthma. These mechanisms may be partially independent of host inflammatory processes but are strongly dependent upon the actions of Alp1 on lung structural cells. They entail (i) bronchial epithelial sensing of Alp1; (ii) Alp1-induced airway smooth muscle (ASM) contraction; (iii) Alp1-induced airflow obstruction. Collectively, these mechanisms point to Alp1 as a new target for intervention in fungal asthma.
The Double Traveling Salesman Problem with Multiple Stacks and a Choice of Container Types
Authors: Hvattum Lars Magnus , Tirado Gregorio , Felipe Ángel
Published: June 2020

The double traveling salesman problem with multiple stacks involves the transportation of goods between two regions. In one region, a vehicle carrying a container visits customers, where pallets of goods are loaded into the container. The container is then shipped to a different region, where another vehicle visits another set of customers where the pallets are unloaded. Pallets are loaded in several rows inside the container, where each row follows the last-in-first-out principle. The standard test instances for the double traveling salesman problem with multiple stacks implies the use of a 45-foot pallet wide container to carry EUR-1 pallets. This paper investigates the effect on transportation costs if an open side container could be used when transporting the pallets. Computational experiments show savings in transportation costs of up to 20%. Moreover, by using a container loaded from the side, rather than from the rear, the defining attributes of the double traveling salesman problem seem to be lost.
Optimization Methodologies and Testing on Standard Benchmark Functions of Load Frequency Control for Interconnected Multi Area Power System in Smart Grids
Authors: Arora Krishan , Kumar Ashok , Kamboj Vikram Kumar , Prashar Deepak , Jha Sudan , Shrestha Bhanu , Joshi Gyanendra Prasad
Published: June 2020

In the recent era, the need for modern smart grid system leads to the selection of optimized analysis and planning for power generation and management. Renewable sources like wind energy play a vital role to support the modern smart grid system. However, it requires a proper commitment for scheduling of generating units, which needs proper load frequency control and unit commitment problem. In this research area, a novel methodology has been suggested, named Harris hawks optimizer (HHO), to solve the frequency constraint issues. The suggested algorithm was tested and examined for several regular benchmark functions like unimodal, multi-modal, and fixed dimension to solve the numerical optimization problem. The comparison was carried out for various existing models and simulation results demonstrate that the projected algorithm illustrates better results towards load frequency control problem of smart grid arrangement as compared with existing optimization models.
Cohomology of Homotopy Colimits of Simplicial Sets and Small Categories
Authors: Cegarra Antonio M.
Published: June 2020

This paper deals with well-known weak homotopy equivalences that relate homotopy colimits of small categories and simplicial sets. We show that these weak homotopy equivalences have stronger cohomology-preserving properties than for local coefficients.
On Hybrid Type Nonlinear Fractional Integrodifferential Equations
Authors: Damag Faten H. , Kılıçman Adem , T. Al-Arioi Awsan
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we introduce and investigate a hybrid type of nonlinear Riemann Liouville fractional integro-differential equations. We develop and extend previous work on such non-fractional equations, using operator theoretical techniques, and find the approximate solutions. We prove the existence as well as the uniqueness of the corresponding approximate solutions by using hybrid fixed point theorems and provide upper and lower bounds to these solutions. Furthermore, some examples are provided, in which the general claims in the main theorems are demonstrated.
Simulating the Gluing of Wood Particles by Lattice Gas Cellular Automata and Random Walk
Authors: Rößler Carina , Breitenecker Felix , Riegler Martin
Published: June 2020

In this work a mathematical model and simulation for the gluing of wood particles designated for particleboards is presented. The aim is to obtain a better understanding of the gluing process. Thus, the behaviour of wood particles during gluing is investigated and the resulting adhesive distribution across the surface of the wood particles is analysed. For developing a mathematical model, the modelling methods “lattice gas cellular automata” and “random walk” were used. The model was implemented in MATLAB and different scenarios were simulated for answering the main questions of the behaviour during gluing. The influences of different parameters on the adhesive distribution were investigated and quantitatively determined by several key figures. Based on these key figures, the effects of the mixing arm, realistic size distributions of wood particles and adhesive droplets, the transfer of adhesive, and the total mass of adhesive are discussed. Furthermore the results are compared with experimental measurements. The simulation results show that the model can feasibly be used for studying the gluing of wood particles. For a possible industrial application, additional research for developing a three-dimensional model is needed.
Laser Surface Hardening of Ni-hard White Cast Iron
Authors: Al-Sayed Samar Reda , Elshazli Ahmed Magdi , Hussein Abdel Hamid Ahmed
Published: June 2020

Laser surface treatment on two different types of nickel–chromium white cast iron (Ni-hard) alloys (Ni-hard 1 and Ni-hard 4) was investigated. Nd:YAG laser of 2.2-kw with continuous wave was used. Ni-hard alloys are promising engineering materials, which are extensively used in applications where good resistance to abrasion wear is essential. The conventional hardening of such alloys leads to high wear resistance nevertheless, the core of the alloy suffers from low toughness. Therefore, it would be beneficial to harden the surface via laser surface technology which keeps the core tough enough to resist high impact shocks. A laser power of different levels (600, 800 and 1000 Watts) corresponding to three different laser scanning speeds (3, 4 and 5 m·min−1) was adopted hoping to reach optimum conditions for wear resistance and impact toughness. The optimum condition for both properties was recorded at heat input of 16.78 J·mm−2. The present findings reflect that the microhardness values and wear resistance clearly increased after laser hardening by almost three times due to laser surface hardening, whereas, the impact toughness was increased from five joules obtained from conventionally heat-treated samples to 6.4 J as gained from laser-treated samples.
Numerical Mesoscale Modelling of Microstructure Evolution during Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Mede Tijan , Kocjan Andraž , Paulin Irena , Godec Matjaž
Published: June 2020

Selective laser melting (SLM) is one of the most popular additive-manufacturing techniques that are revolutionising the production process by opening up new possibilities for unique product-shape fabrication, generating objects of complex geometry and reducing energy consumption as well as waste. However, the more widespread use of this technology is hindered by a major drawback—the thermal-history-dependent microstructure that is typical of SLM-fabricated objects is linked to uncertainties regarding the crucial material properties. While trial-and-error approaches are often employed to limit these risks, the rapidly developing field of numerical modelling represents a cheap and reliable methodology for predicting the microstructure—and by extension, the mechanical properties—of SLM-fabricated objects. Numerical approaches hitherto applied to predicting the evolution of the microstructure in SLM processes and similar boundary-value problems are reviewed and analysed in this article. The conducted analysis focused on mesoscopic scale models, which currently offer sufficient resolution to recover the key microstructural properties at a computational cost that is low enough for the methodology to be applied to industrial problems.