bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aiweixin, a Traditional Uyghur Medicinal Formula, Extends the Lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Zhu Binggen , Jo Kayama , Yang Ping , Tohti Jurat , Fei Jian , Abudukerim Kaisaier
Published: January 2019

Aiweixin (AWX) is a traditional Uyghur medicine prescription, which has been used to treat senile diseases for a long time. We investigate whether the AWX extends the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans. The AWX decoction was the conventional product for clinical use. The wild-type Caenorhabditis elegans (N2) and mutational worms, daf-16(mu86), glp-1(e2141), daf-2(e1370), and eat-2(ad465), were applied for the lifespan analysis. We found that the lifespan of the N2 adults' worm received 0.005 and 0.01 volume of AWX/total volume was extended significantly, compared to the control without treatment of AWX. The AWX at 0.01 volume of AWX/total volume significantly prolonged the life of both mutational worms, daf-16 (mu86) and eat-2(ad465), but did not increase the lifespan of the mutational worms, daf-2(e1370) and glp-1(e2141). These results indicated that the AWX significantly extended the lifespan of wild-type nematodes, and the life extension effect of AWX was related to the germline longevity pathway and IIS signaling pathway but independent of DAF-16/FOXO.
Aldehyde Dehydrogenases: Not Just Markers, but Functional Regulators of Stem Cells
Authors: Vassalli Giuseppe
Published: January 2019

Aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) is a superfamily of enzymes that detoxify a variety of endogenous and exogenous aldehydes and are required for the biosynthesis of retinoic acid (RA) and other molecular regulators of cellular function. Over the past decade, high ALDH activity has been increasingly used as a selectable marker for normal cell populations enriched in stem and progenitor cells, as well as for cell populations from cancer tissues enriched in tumor-initiating stem-like cells. Mounting evidence suggests that ALDH not only may be used as a marker for stem cells but also may well regulate cellular functions related to self-renewal, expansion, differentiation, and resistance to drugs and radiation. ALDH exerts its functional actions partly through RA biosynthesis, as all-trans RA reverses the functional effects of pharmacological inhibition or genetic suppression of ALDH activity in many cell types in vitro. There is substantial evidence to suggest that the role of ALDH as a stem cell marker comes down to the specific isoform(s) expressed in a particular tissue. Much emphasis has been placed on the ALDH1A1 and ALDH1A3 members of the ALDH1 family of cytosolic enzymes required for RA biosynthesis. ALDH1A1 and ALDH1A3 regulate cellular function in both normal stem cells and tumor-initiating stem-like cells, promoting tumor growth and resistance to drugs and radiation. An improved understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which ALDH regulates cellular function will likely open new avenues in many fields, especially in tissue regeneration and oncology.
Effect of Dry-Wet Circulation on Moisture Absorption of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete
Authors: He Xiao , Yin Jian , Yang Jiewen , Liang Qiao , Wu Songyun
Published: January 2019

Moisture absorbability is the characteristic of autoclaved aerated concrete that differs from other wall materials. For autoclaved aerated concrete, dry-wet circulation is the main actual service environment and can directly affect moisture absorbability, which influences cracking performance of structure. In this study, autoclaved aerated concrete with dry-wet circulation times of 0, 30, 60, 150, and 270 is selected. The experiment is performed under the condition of temperatures 20°C, 30°C, 40°C, and 50°C and relative humidities (RH) of 40%, 60%, and 80%. The temperature and humidity have significant effects on moisture absorption. When the dry-wet circulation times are increased, the moisture absorption performance improves; when comparing the specimen at the dry-wet circulation of 0 times with the specimen of dry-wet circulation of 270 times, the amount of moisture absorption content increased by 85.7%, at the temperature of 50°C and RH of 80%. Origin software is chosen to fit the moisture absorption kinetics model. SPSS software is used to analyse the linear regression and variance. The results of hygroscopic kinetics showed that the fitting effect of the double exponential function was optimal, and the temperature and humidity were closely correlated with the specimens under dry-wet circulation, for R2 greater than 0.941.
Titanium Surface Properties Influence the Biological Activity and FasL Expression of Craniofacial Stromal Cells
Authors: Conserva Enrico , Pisciotta Alessandra , Borghi Francesco , Nasi Milena , Pecorini Simone , Bertoni Laura , de Pol Anto , Consolo Ugo , Carnevale Gianluca
Published: January 2019

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) can be easily isolated form craniofacial bones during routine dentistry procedures. Due to their embryological origin from neural crest, they represent a suitable cell population to study cell-biomaterial interaction in the craniofacial field, including osteoinductive/osteointegrative processes. The biological and immunomodulatory properties of MSCs may be influenced by chemistry and topography of implant surfaces. We investigated if and how three different titanium surfaces, machined (MCH), sandblasted with resorbable blasting medium (RBM), and Ca++-nanostructured (NCA), may affect biological activity, osseointegration, and immunomodulatory properties of craniofacial MSCs. Cell proliferation, morphology, osteogenic markers, and FasL were evaluated on MSCs isolated from the mandibular bone after seeding on these three different surfaces. No statistically significant differences in cell proliferation were observed whereas different morphologies and growth patterns were detected for each type of surface. No difference in the expression of osteogenic markers was revealed. Interestingly, FasL expression, involved in the immunomodulatory activity of stem cells, was influenced by surface properties. Particularly, immunofluorescence analysis indicated that FasL expression increased on MCH surface compared to the others confirming the suggested role of FasL in promoting osteogenic differentiation. Titanium surface treatments and topography might reflect different biological behaviours of craniofacial MSCs and influence their osseointegration/immunomodulation properties.
Static Experiment and Finite Element Analysis of a Multitower Cable‐Stayed Bridge with a New Stiffening System
Authors: Wang Xiaowei , Li Yingmin , Song Weiju , Xu Jun
Published: January 2019

Based on the stiffness limitations of the midtower in multitower cable‐stayed bridges, a new stiffening system (tie‐down cables) is proposed in this paper. The sag effects and wind‐induced responses can be reduced with the proposed system because tie‐down cables are short and aesthetic compared with traditional stiffening cables. The results show that the stiffening effect of tie‐down cables is better than that of traditional stiffening cables in controlling the displacement and internal force of the bridge based on a static experiment and finite element analysis. Therefore, the proposed system can greatly improve the overall stiffness of a bridge, and its stiffening effect is better than that of traditional stiffening cables in controlling the displacement and internal force. The results provide a reference for the application of such systems in practical engineering.
Functional Hydration Behavior: Interrelation between Hydration and Molecular Properties at Lipid Membrane Interfaces
Authors: Watanabe Nozomi , Suga Keishi , Umakoshi Hiroshi
Published: January 2019

Water is an abundant commodity and has various important functions. It stabilizes the structure of biological macromolecules, controls biochemical activities, and regulates interfacial/intermolecular interactions. Common aspects of interfacial water can be obtained by overviewing fundamental functions and properties at different temporal and spatial scales. It is important to understand the hydrogen bonding and structural properties of water and to evaluate the individual molecular species having different hydration properties. Water molecules form hydrogen bonds with biomolecules and contribute to the adjustment of their properties, such as surface charge, hydrophilicity, and structural flexibility. In this review, the fundamental properties of water molecules and the methods used for the analyses of water dynamics are summarized. In particular, the interrelation between the hydration properties, determined by molecules, and the properties of molecules, determined by their hydration properties, are discussed using the lipid membrane as an example. Accordingly, interesting water functions are introduced that provide beneficial information in the fields of biochemistry, medicine, and food chemistry.
Antineoplastic Activity and Curative Role of Avenanthramides against the Growth of Ehrlich Solid Tumors in Mice
Authors: Aldubayan Maha A. , Elgharabawy Rehab M. , Ahmed Amira S. , Tousson Ehab
Published: January 2019

Interest is growing in finding natural sources of effective antitumor agents that generate fewer side effects than conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. Avenanthramides (Avns) are such compounds; these phenolic molecules naturally occur in oats and have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative effects making them worthy of further research. The aim of this study is to characterise Avns’ curative ability and antineoplastic activity on solid-form Ehrlich tumors. For the study, 75 female mice were randomly and equally allocated to five groups (group 1-control, group 2-DMSO, group 3-positive control receiving Avns, group 4-mice with Ehrlich solid tumor, and group 5-Ehrlich solid tumor treated with Avns). Mice with Ehrlich solid tumors exhibit increased tumor volume; elevated expression of AFP, ALT, AST, Bcl2, CEA, cholesterol, creatinine, urea, MDA, PCNA, potassium, triglycerides, TNF-α, and NF-κB; and a concomitant decline in catalase, GSH, P53, and SOD. In the mice with Ehrlich tumors who received Avns, there appeared to be improvement in NF-κB TNF-α, tumor markers (AFP and CEA), electrolytes, liver and kidney function enzymes, and lipid profiles; reduced MDA level; improved antioxidant parameters; normalised liver protein, P53, and PCNA; and reduced Bcl2 expression. Pathological examination of tumor lesions also indicated improvement. These results suggest that Avns exhibit antineoplastic activity and possess antioxidant properties that enhance the antioxidant defence system, thus reducing the oxidative stress caused by Ehrlich solid tumors.
An Explainable Password Strength Meter Addon via Textual Pattern Recognition
Authors: Xu Ming , Han Weili
Published: January 2019

Textual passwords are still dominating the authentication of remote file sharing and website logins, although researchers recently showed several vulnerabilities about this authentication mechanism. When a user creates or changes a password, a website usually leverages a password strength meter (PSM for short) to show the strength of the password. When the password is evaluated as a weak one, the user may replace the password with a stronger or securer one. However, the user is usually confused when the password, especially a frequently used password, is shown as a weak one. We argue that an explainable password strength meter addon, which could show the reasons of weak, may help users to more effectively create a secure password. Unfortunately, we find few sites in Alexa global top 100 showing these details. Motivated to help users with an explainable PSM, this paper proposes an addon to PSMs providing feedbacks in the form of pattern passwords explaining why a password is weak. This PSM addon can detect twelve types of patterns, which cover a very large proportion among 70 million of leaked real passwords from high-profile websites. According to our evaluation and user study, our PSM addon, which leverages textual pattern passwords, can effectively detect these popular patterns and effectively help users create securer passwords.
Application of Aluminum Oxide Nanoparticles inAspergillus terreusCultivations: Evaluating the Effects on Lovastatin Production and Fungal Morphology
Authors: Boruta Tomasz , Bizukojc Marcin
Published: January 2019

Aluminum oxide nanoparticles were supplemented toAspergillus terreusATCC 20542 precultures and the outcomes of the process were evaluated relative to the results of microparticle-enhanced and standard cultivations. The selected morphological parameters of fungal pellets (projected area, elongation, convexity, and shape factor) were monitored throughout the experiment, together with biomass, lactose, and lovastatin concentration. The qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis was performed with the use of liquid chromatography coupled with high resolution mass spectrometry. The results of the study indicated that the application of nanoparticles was indeed associated with morphological consequences, most notably the decreased pellet size. However, it turned out that the term “nanoparticle-enhanced cultivation” could not be used in the context of lovastatin production, as no marked increase of product titer was observed in nanoparticle-influenced variants relative to standard and microparticle-enhanced cultivation. In addition, the concentration of biomass in the nanoparticle-influenced runs was relatively low. Comparative analysis of total ion chromatograms revealed the presence of a molecule of unknown structure that could be detected solely in broths from standard and microparticle-containing cultures. This study represents the first evaluation of nanoparticles as the tools of morphological engineering aimed at enhanced lovastatin biosynthesis inA. terreuscultures.
Sedoheptulose-1,7-bisphospate Accumulation and Metabolic Anomalies in Hepatoma Cells Exposed to Oxidative Stress
Authors: Cheng Mei-Ling , Lin Jui-Fen , Huang Cheng-Yu , Li Guan-Jie , Shih Lu-Min , Chiu Daniel Tsun-Yee , Ho Hung-Yao
Published: January 2019

We have previously shown that GSH depletion alters global metabolism of cells. In the present study, we applied a metabolomic approach for studying the early changes in metabolism in hydrogen peroxide- (H2O2-) treated hepatoma cells which were destined to die. Levels of fructose 1,6-bisphosphate and an unusual metabolite, sedoheptulose 1,7-bisphosphate (S-1,7-BP), were elevated in hepatoma Hep G2 cells. Deficiency in G6PD activity significantly reduced S-1,7-BP formation, suggesting that S-1,7-BP is formed in the pentose phosphate pathway as a response to oxidative stress. Additionally, H2O2treatment significantly increased the level of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP+) and reduced the levels of ATP and NAD+. Severe depletion of ATP and NAD+in H2O2-treated Hep G2 cells was associated with cell death. Inhibition of PARP-mediated NAD+depletion partially protected cells from death. Comparison of metabolite profiles of G6PD-deficient cells and their normal counterparts revealed that changes in GSH and GSSG per se do not cause cell death. These findings suggest that the failure of hepatoma cells to maintain energy metabolism in the midst of oxidative stress may cause cell death.
Photoacoustic Spectroscopy in the Optical Characterization of Foodstuff: A Review
Authors: Hernández-Aguilar Claudia , Domínguez-Pacheco Arturo , Cruz-Orea Alfredo , Ivanov Rumen
Published: January 2019

In this review, the application of the photoacustic spectroscopy (PAS) is presented as an option to evaluate the quality of food. This technique is a type of spectroscopy based on photothermal phenomena, which allow spectroscopic studies. According to the literature review, it was found that its application is increasing in several countries. Spectroscopic studies carried out by employing PAS in the food industry include, among others, fruit, vegetables, condiments, grains, legumes, flours, “tortillas,” milk, water, eggs, etc. Additionally, this technique has been used to evaluate adulterated, irradiated, and contaminated food and so on. The literature review has shown the applicability of PAS to one of the problems of the real world, i.e., food quality assessment. Therefore, PAS can contribute in the future with a wide potential for new applications in the food agroindustry.
Theoretical and Experimental Study on Echo Fluctuation Suppression of a Cirrus Cloud by Millimeter Wave MIMO Radar
Authors: Wang Jinhu , Ge Junxiang , Wei Ming , Chen Hongbin , Yang Zexin , Ren Yushu , Zhang Qilin , Chen Hao
Published: January 2019

The scattering properties of nonspherical particles can be approximately computed by equivalent spherical theory. The scattering properties of ice particles were approximately computed by Rayleigh approximation because the sizes of the ice particles are smaller than the wavelength of millimeter wave radar. Based on the above assumption, the echo fluctuation of moving particles was analyzed by computing the total backscattering field of a cirrus cloud using the classical vector potential technique. The simulation results showed that echo fluctuation influences the accuracy of retrieving the physical parameters of a cloud. To suppress the echo fluctuation of moving ice particles, a video integrator of a millimeter wave cloud radar would be used. However, video integrators lose the rapidly changing information of ice particles and reduce radar range resolution; thus, we propose the pace-diversity technique of MIMO radar to reduce the echo fluctuation, which could be validated by theoretical computation and experimental measurements.
Based on the Gaussian Fitting Method to Derive Daily Evapotranspiration from Remotely Sensed Instantaneous Evapotranspiration
Authors: Liu Suhua , Su Hongbo , Zhang Renhua , Tian Jing , Chen Shaohui , Wang Weimin , Yang Lijun , Liang Hong
Published: January 2019

Evapotranspiration (ET) is a significant component in the water cycle, and the estimation of it is imperative in water resource management. Regional ET can be derived by using remote sensing technology which combines remote sensing inputs with ground-based measurements. However, instantaneous ET values estimated through remote sensing directly need to be converted into daily totals. In this study, we attempted to retrieve daily ET from remotely sensed instantaneous ET. The study found that the Gaussian fitting curve closely followed the ET measurements during the daytime and hence put forward the Gaussian fitting method to convert the remotely sensed instantaneous ET into daily ETs. The method was applied to the middle reaches of Heihe River in China. Daily ETs on four days were derived and evaluated with ET measurements from the eddy covariance (EC) system. The correlation between daily ET estimates and measurements showed high accuracy, with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.82, a mean average error (MAE) of 0.41 mm, and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.46 mm. To make more scientific assessments, percent errors were calculated on the estimation accuracy, which ranged from 0% to 18%, with more than 80% of locations having the percent errors within 10%. Analyses on the relationship between daily ET estimates and land use status were also made to assess the Gaussian fitting method, and the results showed that the spatial distribution of daily ET estimates well demonstrated ET differences caused by land use types and was intimately linked with the vegetation pattern. The comparison between the Gaussian fitting method and the sine function method and the ETrF method indicated that results derived through the Gaussian fitting method had higher precision than that obtained by the sine function method and the ETrF method.
Advanced Fast Large Current Electronic Breaker Using Integration of Surge Current Suppression and Current Divider Sensing Methods
Authors: Lin Hsiung-Cheng , Zo Heng-Chuan , He Bo-Rong
Published: January 2019

Electronic breakers or fuses are most widely used tools to protect the electric-driven facilities from overload or short circuit. However, they may suffer from two major drawbacks: (1) it normally takes more than 0.1 s to react, resulting in facilities not sufficiently protected, and (2) a higher rating size of breakers or fuses is demanded than expected due to lack of a surge current suppression mechanism. To overcome these problems, this paper proposes a fast large current electronic breaker based on the integration of current divider sensing and surge suppressing methods. The load surge current can be effectively suppressed by series negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistors. The load current is then divided into a small portion and converted to a voltage signal for amplification and comparison with the predefined threshold value, i.e., the maximum load tolerance current. AC power will be disconnected immediately by the switching circuit once the load current exceeds the tolerance value. The disconnection of power supply will continue for a period of time set by the timer. The experimental results verify that the proposed electronic breaker can provide a large load current protection up to 20 A under effective surge suppression within 10 ms.
Pd Nanoparticles Stabilized by Hypercrosslinked Polystyrene Catalyze Selective Triple C-C Bond Hydrogenation and Suzuki Cross-Coupling
Authors: Nikoshvili Linda Zh. , Nemygina Nadezhda A. , Khudyakova Tatiana E. , Tiamina Irina Yu. , Bykov Alexey V. , Stein Barry D. , Sulman Esther M. , Kiwi-Minsker Lioubov
Published: January 2019

This paper describes the synthesis of Pd-containing catalysts based on nonfunctionalized hypercrosslinked polystyrene via impregnation with Pd acetate. Developed Pd nanoparticulate catalyst allowed achieving conversion of aryl halide up to 90% in Suzuki cross-coupling reaction under mild conditions and at the absence of phase-transfer agents. During the selective hydrogenation of triple C-C bond of 2-methyl-3-butyn-2-ol, up to 96% selectivity with respect to corresponding olefinic alcohol was found at 95% conversion. The influences of the procedure of catalyst synthesis like precursor decomposition and reductive activation method on Pd nanoparticle formation are discussed.
Integrated Analysis of lncRNA and mRNA Transcriptomes Reveals New Regulators of Ubiquitination and the Immune Response in Silica-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Zhou Yao , He Li , Liu Xiao-Dan , Guan Hua , Li Ying , Huang Rui-Xue , Zhou Ping-Kun
Published: January 2019

Objectives. As an epigenetic player, long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) have been reported to participate in multiple biological processes; however, their biological functions in silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis (SIPF) occurrence and development remain incompletely understood.Methods. Five case/control pairs were used to perform integrated transcriptomes analysis of lncRNA and mRNA. Prediction of lncRNA and mRNA functions was aided by the Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases. Additionally, we constructed a coexpression network of lncRNAs and mRNAs to identify targets of regulation.Results. In total, 1069 differentially expressed mRNAs and 366 lncRNAs were identified with the changes more than 2 times (p<0.05), of which 351 downregulated mRNA and 31 downregulated lncRNA were <0.5 (p<0.05) and those of 718 upregulated mRNAs and 335 upregulated lncRNA were >2 (p<0.05). The levels of 10 lncRNAs were measured via qRT-PCR; the results were consistent with the microarray data. Four genes named of FEM1B, TRIM39, TRIM32, and KLHL15 were enriched significantly with ubiquitination and immune response. Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction was the most significantly enriched KEGG pathway in both mRNAs and lncRNAs. The coexpression network revealed that a single lncRNA can interact with multiple mRNAs, and vice versa.Conclusions. lncRNA and mRNA expression were aberrant in patients with SIPF compared to controls, indicating that differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs may play critical roles in SIPF development. Our study affords new insights into the molecular mechanisms of SIPF and identifies potential biomarkers and targets for SIPF diagnosis and treatment.
Sterilisation in Dentistry: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Laneve Enrica , Raddato Bruna , Dioguardi Mario , Di Gioia Giovanni , Troiano Giuseppe , Lo Muzio Lorenzo
Published: January 2019

In a small and medium-sized dental facility, the correct management of the sterilisation and presterilisation phases plays a fundamental role in good management of instruments and personnel, in order to ensure conditions that are more efficient with less down time. Nowadays, instrument sterilizers are increasingly efficient in achieving results, both in terms of time and size, and ensure that materials are sterile and ready to be stocked in a reasonable time. A literature search for articles related to revision work was performed using electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The following keywords have been entered in the previously mentioned databases: sterilisation instruments; dental autoclave; precleaning; instruments disinfectants. The records obtained were screened by three reviewers, and only relevant articles were read full text. In addition, the timings of dental and sterilisation procedures were measured, and from these, suggestions are made in order to improve the efficiency of instrumentation management (facility used as study subject: University Dental Clinic, University of Foggia) as a function of the health-care interventions. We arrived at the conclusion that without doubt, sterilisation of instruments and products plays a fundamental role, but the efficiency of the sterilisation and presterilisation procedures cannot be separated from managing the personnel in charge by giving them specific and precise tasks.
Chronic Hepatitis C with Cyanosis
Authors: Alawainati Mahmood , Khamis Jawad , Abdulla Muneer , Alsaeed Saeed
Published: January 2019

Background. There are multiple aetiologies for dyspnea in patients with liver disease, including pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, hepatic hydrothorax, portopulmonary syndrome, and hepatopulmonary syndrome. The aim of this paper is to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and management of hepatopulmonary syndrome. Case Presentation. We report a case of a 65-year-old male who was known to have chronic hepatitis C presented with one-year history of shortness of breath and cyanosis. The initial impression of pulmonary embolism was excluded by comprehensive diagnostic investigations. The correlation between the clinical picture and investigations raised the possibility of hepatopulmonary syndrome which was confirmed by contrast-enhanced transthoracic echocardiography. Conclusions. High suspicion is required to diagnose hepatopulmonary syndrome in patients with liver disease and hypoxemia. Screening for this complication is appropriate in liver transplant candidates, and diagnosed patients should be evaluated extensively for liver transplant.
The Spherical Shock Factor Theory of a FSP with an Underwater Added Structure
Authors: Jun Guo , Yang Yong , Zhang Yin , Feng Lin-han
Published: January 2019

A floating shock platform (FSP) is important experimental equipment for the antishock assessment of large‐scale shipborne equipment. Generally speaking, the FSP is a square barge structure with a flat bottom. In order to satisfy the key index of the horizontal‐to‐vertical ratio of the impact environment, a special added structure is mounted to the bottom of the platform, and the impact environment is more complicated due to the added structure. Therefore, the spherical shock factor theory is proposed to analyze the impact environment, and the validity of the theory is proved by numerical experiments. The results show that the average impact spectrum response of the platform is essentially consistent under the same shock factor. Meanwhile, the spherical shock factor builds a linear relationship between the input parameters and structural response, which is convenient for the prediction of impact response.
Shepherd’s Purse Polyphenols Exert Its Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidative Effects Associated with Suppressing MAPK and NF-κB Pathways and Heme Oxygenase-1 Activation
Authors: Peng Jinming , Hu Tianyong , Li Jin , Du Jing , Zhu Kerui , Cheng Baohui , Li Kaikai
Published: January 2019

Shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medik.), a wild herb as a traditional herbal medicine, has been proved with multiple healthy benefits. In this study, the chemical constituents of shepherd’s purse were identified by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS. The antioxidative and anti-inflammatory potential of shepherd’s purse extract (SPE) were also investigated applying lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages and a carrageenan-induced mice paw edema model. Twenty-four chemical compounds were identified mainly including phenolic acids and flavonoids. The data also indicated SPE inhibited the productions of NO, PGE2, TNF-α, and IL-6 stimulated with LPS. In addition, SPE inhibited the increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and upregulated the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). We further found that SPE inhibited the phosphorylation of P38 MAPK and activation of NF-κB. In vivo mice model also indicated that SPE showed strong antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activity.
Determinants of Off-Farm Income among Smallholder Rice Farmers in Northern Ghana: Application of a Double-Hurdle Model
Authors: Anang Benjamin Tetteh , Yeboah Richard W. N.
Published: January 2019

Income diversification by farm households has gained the attention of researchers and policy makers due to its commonness especially in developing countries. This study sought to empirically investigate the determinants of off-farm income among smallholder farmers in northern Ghana using a sample of 300 rice farmers. A double-hurdle model was used to determine the factors influencing participation in off-farm work as well as the predictors of actual amounts earned from working outside the farm. The results revealed that gender, farming experience, years of education, and access to credit are the factors determining participation in off-farm work while farming experience, years of education, and geographical location are the determinants of income from off-farm work. The paper concludes that measures to enhance rural income diversification will spur the rural economy and these measures should seek to address the problem of low level of formal education in rural areas.
The Influence of FTO Polymorphism rs9939609 on Obesity, Some Clinical Features, and Disturbance of Carbohydrate Metabolism in Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Tupikowska-Marzec Małgorzata , Kolačkov Katarzyna , Zdrojowy-Wełna Aleksandra , Słoka Natalia K. , Szepietowski Jacek C. , Maj J.
Published: January 2019

Background. Psoriasis is often accompanied by obesity, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome as risk factors of cardiovascular conditions and premature mortality. Objective. The study was aimed at investigating whether psoriatic patients, who carry risk allele of obesity-related FTO gene, are more predisposed to obesity and metabolic disturbances and whether it influences the severity of psoriasis. Methods. 197 patients with psoriasis, representing Lower Silesia region of Poland, underwent physical examination and anthropometric measurements. Blood samples for biochemical and genetic analysis were collected. All patients were genotyped for FTO gene rs9939609 variant. Identification of SNP was conducted with the use of minisequencing method. Results. Around 63% of patients were carriers of at least one risk allele A and 20% were AA homozygotes. The A allele was associated with increased BMI and hip and waist circumferences. The carriers of risk allele had increased PASI and CRP values and tended to have an increased insulin concentration. Conclusion. Psoriatic patients, carriers of risk allele of FTO gene rs9939609, have an increased risk for more severe psoriasis and obesity and may develop obesity-induced insulin resistance.
Influence of Different Advancing Directions on Mining Effect Caused by a Fault
Authors: Jiang Lishuai , Wang Pu , Zheng Pengqiang , Luan Hengjie , Zhang Chen
Published: January 2019

To study the correlation among advancing direction, strata behaviors, and rock burst induction, two physical models utilizing similar materials are established. Subsequently, the influence of advancing direction on the mining effect, caused by a fault, is studied. Moreover, the rock bursts affected by faults with different mining directions are compared and analyzed. The results show that the overlying structure varies notably, affected by fault cutting and fault dip, and the fault‐affected zone and the cause of induced rock burst differ with different mining directions. However, regardless of mining directions, the overlying structure of the hanging wall is stable and fault activation is not obvious, while that of the footwall is relatively active and fault activation is violent; the risk of rock burst on the footwall is larger than that of mining on the hanging wall. Finally, an engineering case regarding two rock bursts in panel 6303 is used to verify some physical simulation results to a certain extent. Study results can serve as a reference for face layout and prevention of rock bursts under similar conditions.
Environmental Benzopyrene Attenuates Stemness of Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells via Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor
Authors: Heo June Seok , Lim Ja-Yun , Pyo Sangshin , Yoon Dae Wui , Lee Dongsook , Ren Wen Xiu , Lee Seung Gwan , Kim Gi Jin , Kim Jinkwan
Published: January 2019

The toxic effects of particulate matter have been linked to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) such as benzopyrene. PAHs are potent inducers of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), which is an expressed nuclear receptor that senses environmental stimuli and modulates gene expression. Even though several studies have shown that the benzopyrene (BP) of chemical pollutants significantly impaired stem cell activity, the exact molecular mechanisms were not clearly elucidated. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of BP on placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PD-MSCs) in vitro. We found that the AhR in PD-MSCs was expressed under the treatment of BP, and its activation markedly disrupted osteogenic differentiation through the alteration of stemness activity of PD-MSCs. Moreover, BP treatment significantly reduced the proliferation activity of PD-MSCs and expression of pluripotent markers through the induction of AhR. Treatment with StemRegenin 1 (SR1), a purine derivative that antagonizes the AhR, effectively prevented BP-induced reduction of the proliferation and differentiation activity of PD-MSCs. In this study, we found that BP treatment in PD-MSCs markedly obstructs PD-MSC stemness through AhR signaling. Noteworthy, SR1-mediated MSC application will contribute to new perspectives on MSC-based therapies for air pollution-related bone diseases.
Early Macular Angiography among Patients with Glaucoma, Ocular Hypertension, and Normal Subjects
Authors: Chao Shih-Chun , Yang Shang-Jung , Chen Hung-Chi , Sun Chi-Chin , Liu Chin-Hsin , Lee Chia-Yi
Published: January 2019

Purpose. To evaluate early macular circulation in open-angle glaucoma (OAG), normal-tension glaucoma (NTG), ocular hypertension (OHT), and healthy subjects via optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Methods. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted. Medical records were reviewed, and the patients who received OCTA examinations were divided into the OAG, NTG, OHT, and normal groups. The ophthalmic data including best-corrected visual acuity, spherical equivalent, intraocular pressure, central corneal thickness, central foveal thickness, visual field deviation, retinal nerve fiber layers thickness, and ganglion cell complex thickness were obtained from medical documents. For the macular area, the superficial vessel density (VD), deep VD, foveal avascular zone (FAZ), flow area of the outer retina, and flow area of the choriocapillaris were measured via OCTA and analyzed using the default vascular density analysis program in the same OCTA device. Results. A total of 70 eyes from 70 patients were analyzed in the current study. Significant differences in the intraocular pressure, central corneal thickness, visual field deviation, retinal fiber layer thickness, and ganglion cell complex thickness were observed in the patients in the glaucoma group at their last visits. The OAG and NTG groups evinced a lower superficial VD than did the control group, while the NTG group had a lower deep VD than the control group. The NTG group also had a larger FAZ than did the OHT group. The flow area of the outer retina in the OAG group was low relative to those of the OHT and control groups. No difference in choriocapillaris perfusion was observed among the groups. Conclusion. The OAG and NTG patients demonstrated impaired vasculature before significant disease development could be observed. Furthermore, the differences in macular circulation may be associated with differences in the courses of disease between the glaucoma and OHT patients.
IRF7 Gene Variations Confer Susceptibility to Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases and Graves’ Ophthalmopathy
Authors: Yao Qiuming , An Xiaofei , Zhang Jing , Mu Kaida , Li Ling , Song Ronghua , Sun Peilong , Zhang Jin-an
Published: January 2019

The objective of this study was to investigate whether IRF7 polymorphisms are associated with autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITDs). We selected three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of IRF7, namely, rs1061501, rs1131665, and rs1061502 for genotyping using PCR-based ligase detection reaction (LDR) method in a total of 1659 participants (592 with Graves’ disease, 297 with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and 770 healthy controls). Gene-disease and genotype-clinical phenotype associations were evaluated for the three SNPs. Our results showed that the AG genotype and the minor allele G frequency of rs1131665 and rs1061502 in AITD patients were both higher than those of the controls (rs1131665: AG genotype: P=0.017, OR=1.968; allele G: P=0.018, OR=1.946; rs1061502: AG genotype: P=0.029, OR=1.866; allele G: P=0.031, OR=1.847). Subgroup analysis also showed that the AG genotype and the minor allele G frequency of rs1131665 and rs1061502 in Graves’ disease patients were both higher than those of the controls (rs1131665: AG genotype: P=0.015, OR=2.074; allele G: P=0.016, OR=2.048; rs1061502: AG genotype: P=0.034, OR=1.919; allele G: P=0.035, OR=1.898). Furthermore, the allele G frequency of rs1061501 was associated with Graves’ ophthalmopathy (P=0.035, OR=1.396). No significant difference in IRF7 polymorphisms was found between Hashimoto’s thyroiditis patients and controls. Our study has revealed for the first time that IRF7 is a susceptibility gene for AITD, especially for Graves’ disease and Graves’ ophthalmopathy.
Research on Novel Correlation Coefficient of Neutrosophic Cubic Sets and Its Applications
Authors: Xue Huiling , Yu Minrong , Chen Chunfang
Published: January 2019

Single‐valued neutrosophic cubic set is a good tool to solve the vague and uncertain problems because it contains more information. The article first gives the correlation coefficient of single‐valued neutrosophic cubic sets. Then, a decision method is proposed, and an application in pattern recognition is considered. Finally, examples are given to explain the feasibility of this method. At the same time, the comparative analysis shows the superiority of this method.
The Stability of Gob‐Side Entry Retaining in a High‐Gas‐Risk Mine
Authors: Zhang Junwen , Li Yulin
Published: January 2019

There are series of problems faced by most of the coal mines in China, ranging from low‐coal recovery rate and strained replacement of working faces to gas accumulation in the upper corner of coalfaces. Based on the gob‐side entry retaining at the No. 18205 working face in a coal mine in Shanxi Province, theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, and engineering practice were comprehensively used to study the mechanical characteristics of the influence of the width of the filling body beside the roadway and the stability of surrounding rock in a high‐gas‐risk mine. The rational width of the filling body beside the roadway was determined, and a concrete roadway‐side support with a headed reinforcement‐integrated strengthening technique was proposed, which have been applied in engineering practice. The stability of the filling body beside the roadway is mainly influenced by the movement of the overlying rock strata, and the stability of the surrounding rock can be improved effectively by rationally determining the width of the filling body beside the roadway. When the width of the roadway‐side filling body is 2.5 m, the surrounding rock convergence of the gob‐side entry retaining is relatively small at only 5% of the convergence ratio. It has been shown that the figure for roof separation is relatively low, and strata behaviors are relatively alleviated and gas density do not exceed the limit, which are the best results of gob‐side entry retaining. The results of this research can provide theoretical guidance for excavation of coal mines with similar geological conditions and have some referential significance to safety and efficient production in coal mines.
Association between B Cell Growth Factors and Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome-Related Autoantibodies in Patients with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Authors: Xian Zhenhua , Fu Dehua , Liu Shuang , Yao Yang , Gao Chun
Published: January 2019

Despite the overall success of using R-CHOP for the care for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients, it is clear that the disease is quite complex and new insight is needed to further stratify the patient for a better personized treatment. In current study, based on previous studies from animal model, new panels combining well-established cytokine (BAFF) and autoantibodies (anti-SSA/Ro) with newly identified cytokine (IL14) and autoantibodies (TSA) were used to evaluate the association between B cell growth factor and Sjögren’s related autoantibodies in NHL patients. The result clearly indicates that there was a unique difference between BAFF and IL14 in association with autoantibodies. While serum BAFF was negatively associated with the presence of both traditional anti-SSA/Ro and novel TSA antibodies in GI lymphoma patient, IL14 was positively associated with the presence of both traditional anti-SSA/Ro and novel TSA antibodies in non-GI lymphoma patient. Long-term follow-ups on these patients and evaluation of their response to the R-CHOP treatment and recurrence rate will be very interesting. Our result provides a solid evidence to support using novel diagnostic panel to better stratify the NHL patients.
Buoyancy Force Acting on Underground Structures considering Seepage of Confined Water
Authors: Zhang Ji-wen , Cao Jie , Mu Linlong , Wang Le , Li Jie
Published: January 2019

The antifloating property of underground structures in areas with high underground water levels is a key design aspect. Evaluating the buoyancy forces acting on underground structures is complicated, particularly in the presence of confined water beneath the structures. Herein, the effects of the permeability coefficient of layered soil, hydraulic gradient, and embedment depth of the aquiclude on the buoyancy force acting on underground structures are investigated through three model tests: (1) calibration of the test system, (2) buoyancy force acting on a structure located in homogeneous soil considering vertical direction seepage, and (3) buoyancy force acting on a structure located in layered soil considering vertical seepage of confined water. The results show that the pore pressure along the structure and the buoyancy force acting on the underground structure considering seepage are greater than those obtained under hydrostatic conditions. The raising ratios of the pore pressure and buoyancy force are equal to the vertical hydraulic gradient when seepage occurs in homogeneous soil. In the presence of confined water, the raising ratio is significantly greater than the hydraulic gradient. In the cases studied herein, the raising ratio is approximately twice the hydraulic gradient. Simplified equations are proposed to calculate the buoyancy force acting on underground structures considering the vertical seepage of confined water. Finally, a finite element analysis is carried out to verify the conclusions obtained from the model test and the rationality of the proposed equations.
Looking for Lepidic Component inside Invasive Adenocarcinomas Appearing as CT Solid Solitary Pulmonary Nodules (SPNs): CT Morpho-Densitometric Features and 18-FDG PET Findings
Authors: Reginelli Alfonso , Capasso Raffaella , Petrillo Mario , Rossi Claudia , Faella Pierluigi , Grassi Roberta , Belfiore Maria Paola , Rossi Giovanni , Muto Maurizio , Muto Pietro , Fiorello Alfonso , Serra Nicola , Nizzoli Rita , De Filippo Massimo , Cappabianca Salvatore , Carrafiello Gianpaolo , Brunese Luca , Rotondo Antonio
Published: January 2019

Objective. To investigate CT morphologic and densitometric features and 18-FDG PET findings of surgically excised lung adenocarcinomas “mixed subtype” with predominant lepidic component, appearing as solid solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) on CT scan. Materials and Methods. Approval for this study was given from each local institutional review board according to its retrospective nature. Nodules pathologically classified as lung adenocarcinoma mixed subtype with bronchioloalveolar otherwise lepidic predominant component, in three different Italian institutions (Napoli; Varese; Parma), were retrospectively selected. Results. 22 patients were identified. The number of SPNs with smooth margins was significantly lower with respect to the number of SPNs with spiculated margins (p: 0.033), radiating spiculations (p: 0.019), and notch sign (p: 0.011). Mean contrast enhancement (CE) was 53.34 HU (min 5.5 HU, max 112 HU); considering 15 HU as cut-off value, CE was positive in 20/22 cases. No significant correlation was found between size and CE. Mean SUVmax was 2.21, ranging from 0.2 up to 7.5 units; considering 2.5 units as cut-off, SUVmax was positive in 7/22 cases. The number of SPNs with positive CE was significantly higher than the number of SPNs with positive SUVmax (p: 0.0005). Conclusion. CT generally helps in identifying solid SPN suspicious for malignancy but 18-FDG PET may result in false-negative evaluation; when 18-FDG PET findings of a solid SPN are negative even though CT morphology and CE suggest malignancy, radiologist should consider that lepidic component may be present inside the invasive tumor, despite the absence of ground glass.