bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical Task Shifting Helps Reduce Neonatal Mortality in Ethiopia: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Tariku Yihun , Gerum Tadele , Mekonen Mareshet , Takele Haddis
Published: February 2019

Background. To improve access to surgical service and to reduce neonatal mortality Ethiopia implemented surgical task shifting to nonphysician surgeons (NPSs). We aim at assessing surgical outcomes between NPSs and physician surgeons working in two hospitals. Methods. We collected data from two hospitals on 474 maternal medical records. Completed maternal medical records were included in this study. Data were entered into Epi Info version 7 and analyzed by SPSS version 20 software. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were done. If the 95% confidence interval values exclude the null value, the factor was considered as a significant factor. Result. Totally, 3429 mothers delivered in two hospitals. Of them, 840 (24.5%) delivered by caesarian section (CS), but 474 mothers’ records meet the inclusion criteria included in this study. Of 474 CS deliveries, the majority (82%) of them were performed by NPS. Maternal or fetal emergency conditions were the main reasons (92.0%, n=436) for CS. Task shifting does not affect immediate newborn outcomes (ARR, 1.24 (0.55, 2.78)), but duration of hospitalization (ARR: 4 (2.3, 7.5)), condition of the fetus during admission (ARR: 5.22 (2.9, 9.2)), and type of anesthesia used (ARR: 0.2 (0.1, 0.4)) significantly determine the outcome. Conclusion. Surgical task shifting to NPS does not affect the immediate newborn outcome. But general anesthesia is one of the major factors that affects the outcome.
Lauric Acid-ModifiedNitrariaSeed Meal Composite as Green Carrier Material for Pesticide Controlled Release
Authors: Bai Bo , Xu Xiaohui , Hai Jingjie , Hu Na , Wang Honglun , Suo Yourui
Published: February 2019

To alleviate the adverse effects of pesticide residues on the environment, development of a more safe, economical, and reliable usage approach of pesticides is critically urgent. In the present study, a novel pesticide carrier LA-NSM (lauric acid-modifiedNitrariaseed meal) with controlled release property was prepared through grafting esterification of lauric acid ontoNitrariaseed meal substrates. The structure of the obtained samples was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and contact angle measurements. The results indicated that LA-NSM products had a well-defined hydrophobic surface and irregular holes for efficient loading of pesticide molecules. Deltamethrin (DEL), a representative insoluble pyrethroid insecticide in water, was deliberately selected as the index pesticide to evaluate the loading and releasing efficiency of LA-NSM. The loading capacity of LA-NSM for DEL can reach about 1068 mg/g. pH, humidity of soil, and temperature had a significant influence on controlled release performance of LA-NSM@DEL. Moreover, the releasing kinetics of LA-NSM@DEL composites could be fitted well with the Higuchi model. Overall, the highly hydrophobic property, excellent loading, and controlled release ability of LA-NSM made it a promising candidate in agricultural applications.
A Population‐Based Optimization Method Using Newton Fractal
Authors: Jeong Soyeong , Kim Pilwon
Published: February 2019

We propose a deterministic population‐based method for a global optimization, a Newton particle optimizer (NPO). The algorithm uses the Newton method with a guiding function and drives particles toward the current best positions. The particles’ movements are influenced by the fractal nature of the Newton method and are greatly diversified in the approach to the temporal best optimums. As a result, NPO generates a wide variety of searching paths, achieving a balance between exploration and exploitation. NPO differs from other metaheuristic methods in that it combines an exact mathematical operation with heuristics and is therefore open to more rigorous analysis. The local and global search of the method can be separately handled as properties of an associated multidimensional mapping.
Cost-Effectiveness Evaluation of Bariatric Surgery for Morbidly Obese with Diabetes Patients in Thailand
Authors: Viratanapanu Ithiphon , Romyen Chavalit , Chaivanijchaya Komol , Sornphiphatphong Sikarin , Kattipatanapong Worawit , Techagumpuch Ajjana , Kitisin Krit , Pungpapong Suppa-ut , Tharavej Chadin , Navicharern Patpong , Boonchayaanant Patchaya , Udomsawaengsup Suthep
Published: February 2019

Background. Bariatric surgery is a choice for treatment in morbidly obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM type 2) who have inadequate diabetes control with only medical treatment. However, bariatric surgery requires highly sophisticated equipment, and thus the cost of surgery seems to be very high following the procedure compared with the cost of conventional diabetes care. This raises the question of whether bariatric surgery is cost-effective for morbidly obese people with diabetes in Thailand. Objective. To perform a cost-effectiveness evaluation of bariatric surgery compared with ordinary treatment for diabetes control in morbidly obese DM type 2 patients in Thailand. Methods. Cost-effectiveness study was conducted, using a combination of decision tree and Markov model in analysis. Treatment outcomes and healthcare costs were incurred by data from literature review and retrospective cohort in King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital from September 2009 to March 2016 for the conventional and bariatric surgery group, respectively. One-way sensitivity was used for analysis of the robustness of the model. Cost-effectiveness was assessed by calculating incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs). Monetary benefits at a threshold of 150,000 to 200,000 Thai baht (THB) per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) based on the Thailand gross domestic products (GDP) value was regarded as cost-effectiveness of bariatric surgery. Results. Bariatric surgery significantly improves the clinical outcome including long-term diabetes remission rate, hemoglobin A1C, and body mass index (BMI). The incremental cost per QALY of bariatric surgery compared with the medication control is 26,907.76 THB/QALY which can consider bariatric surgery as a cost-effective option. Conclusions. Use of bariatric surgery in morbidly obese with DM type 2 patients is a cost-effective strategy in Thailand’s context.
Animal Models of Steatosis (NAFLD) and Steatohepatitis (NASH) Exhibit Hepatic Lobe-Specific Gelatinases Activity and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Palladini Giuseppina , Di Pasqua Laura G. , Berardo Clarissa , Siciliano Veronica , Richelmi Plinio , Perlini Stefano , Ferrigno Andrea , Vairetti Mariapia
Published: February 2019

Animal models of obstructive cholestasis and ischemia/reperfusion damage have revealed the functional heterogeneity of liver lobes. This study evaluates this heterogeneity in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) rat models. Twelve-week-old Obese and Lean male Zucker rats were used for NAFLD. Eight-week-old male Wistar rats fed with 8-week methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet and relative control diet were used for NASH. Gelatinase (MMP-2; MMP-9) activity and protein levels, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMPs), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) were evaluated in the left (LL), median (ML), and right liver (RL) lobes. Serum hepatic enzymes and TNF-alpha were assessed. An increase in gelatinase activity in the NASH model occurred in RL compared with ML. TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 displayed the same trend in RL as ML and LL. Control diet RL showed higher MMP-9 activity compared with ML and LL. No significant lobar differences in MMP-2 activity were detected in the NAFLD model. MMP-9 activity was not detectable in Zucker rats. TIMP-1 was lower in LL when compared with ML while no lobar differences were detectable for TIMP-2 in either Obese or Lean Zucker rats. Control diet rats exhibited higher ROS formation in LL versus RL. Significant increases in TBARS levels were observed in LL versus ML and RL in control and MCD rats. The same trend for ROS and TBARS was found in Obese and Lean Zucker rats. An increased serum TNF-alpha occurred in MCD rats. A lobar difference was detected for MMPs, TIMPs, ROS, and TBARS in both MCD and Zucker rats. Higher MMP activation in RL and higher oxidative stress in the LL, compared with the other lobes studied, supports growing evidence for functional heterogeneity among the liver lobes occurring certainly in both NAFLD and NASH rats.
Antibacterial Activity of Coumarins and Carbazole Alkaloid from Roots of Clausena anisata
Authors: Tamene Dandena , Endale Milkyas
Published: February 2019

Clausena anisata is one of the medicinal plants used traditionally for treatment of parasitic infections, irritation (boils, ringworm, and eczema), flatworm infestations, influenza, abdominal cramps, and constipation. Phytochemical screening test of dichloromethane/methanol (1 : 1) roots extract revealed the presence of flavonoids, phytosterols, coumarins, phenols, alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, and free reducing sugars and the absence of saponins. Silica gel column chromatographic separation of the dichloromethane/methanol (1 : 1) extract afforded a carbazole alkaloid derivative of heptazoline (1) and three coumarins (2–4), including the known coumarins imperatorin (3) and chalepin (4). Structures of the compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic techniques (IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and DEPT-135). Antibacterial activity of the crude extracts and isolated compounds was screened using agar diffusion method against strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus substilis. The results of antibacterial test revealed derivative of heptaphylline (1) and imperatorin (3) exhibited comparable antibacterial activity against S. aureus and B. substilis (14 and 13 mm zone of inhibition, respectively) to that of ciprofloxacin (15 mm zone of inhibition) at a concentration of 20 µg/mL. Chalepin (4) revealed more antibacterial activity against B. substilis (16 mm zone of inhibition) compared to ciprofloxacin (15 mm).
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) Colonization and Disease among Pregnant Women: A Historical Cohort Study
Authors: Edwards James M. , Watson Nora , Focht Chris , Wynn Clara , Todd Christopher A. , Walter Emmanuel B. , Heine R. Phillips , Swamy Geeta K.
Published: February 2019

Background. Maternal GBS colonization is associated with early-onset neonatal sepsis and extensive efforts are directed to preventing this complication. Less is known about maternal risks of GBS colonization. We seek to provide a modern estimate of the incidence and impact of maternal GBS colonization and invasive GBS disease. Methods. A single center historical cohort study of all births between 2003 and 2015 was performed. Data was collected via electronic health record abstraction using an institutional specific tool. Descriptive statistics were performed regarding GBS status. Inferential statistics were performed comparing risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in cohorts with and without GBS colonization as well as cohorts with GBS colonization and invasive GBS disease. Results. A total of 60,029 deliveries were included for analysis. Overall, 21.6% of the population was GBS colonized and 0.1% had invasive GBS disease. GBS colonization was associated with younger maternal age, Black race, non-Hispanic ethnicity, chronic hypertension, preexisting diabetes, and tobacco use (p<0.01). In the adjusted analyses, there was an increased risk of gestational diabetes (aRR 1.21, 95% CI 1.11-1.32) in colonized pregnancies and a decreased incidence of short cervix (aRR 0.64, 95% CI 0.52-0.79), chorioamnionitis (aRR 0.76, 95% CI 0.66-0.87), wound infection (aRR 0.75, 95% CI 0.64-0.88), and operative delivery (aRR 0.85, 95% CI 0.83-0.88). Conclusions. This modern-day large cohort of all births over a 12-year period demonstrates a GBS colonization rate of 21.6%. This data reflects a need to assess maternal and perinatal outcomes in addition to neonatal GBS sepsis rates to inform decisions regarding the utility of maternal vaccination.
Modified Silica Incorporating into PDMS Polymeric Membranes for Bioethanol Selection
Authors: Peng Ping , Lan Yongqiang , Luo Juxiang
Published: February 2019

In this work, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) polymeric membranes were fabricated by incorporating fumed silica nanoparticles which were functionalized with two silane coupling agents—NH2(CH2)3Si(OC2H5)3(APTS) and NH2(CH2)2NH(CH2)3Si(OC2H5)3(TSED)—for selective removal of ethanol from aqueous solutions via pervaporation. It was demonstrated that large agglomerates were not observed indicating the uniform distribution of modified silica throughout the PDMS matrices. It is noted that the ethanol diffusivity and the water contact angles were both increased remarkably, being beneficial to the preferential permeation of ethanol through the membranes. The pervaporation results showed that the addition of the two types of modified silica nanoparticles dramatically enhanced both the permeability and selectivity of hybrid membranes. Compared to APTS, silica modified by TSED at the concentration of 4 wt. % resulted in the optimum pervaporation membranes with the maximum separation factor of 12.09 and the corresponding permeation flux of approximately 234.0 g·m−2·h−1in a binary aqueous mixture at 40°C containing 10 wt. % ethanol. The observation will benefit the choice of coupling agents to improve the compatibility between hydrophilic fillers and hydrophobic polymers in preparing mixed matrix membranes.
Virtual Network Embedding Based on Security Level with VNF Placement
Authors: Dwiardhika Dhanu , Tachibana Takuji
Published: February 2019

In this paper, in order to embed virtual networks by considering network security, we propose a virtual network embedding based on security level with VNF placement. In this method, virtual networks are embedded in a substrate network by considering security and some security VNFs are placed in order to increase the security level of substrate networks. By using our proposed method, many virtual networks can be embedded by considering security level. As a result, the reward can be increased and the cost of placing VNFs is not increased so much. We evaluate the performance of our proposed method with simulation. The performance of this method is compared with the performance of a method that places VNFs randomly and the performance of a method without placing VNFs. From numerical examples, we investigate the effectiveness of this method. In numerical examples, we show that the proposed method is effective in embedding virtual networks by considering network security.
Enhanced Android App-Repackaging Attack on In-Vehicle Network
Authors: Lee Yousik , Woo Samuel , Lee Jungho , Song Yunkeun , Moon Heeseok , Lee Dong Hoon
Published: February 2019

The convergence of automobiles and ICT (information and communication technology) has become a new paradigm for the development of next-generation vehicles. In particular, connected cars represent the most in-demand automobile-ICT convergence technology. With the development of 5G technology, communication between vehicle and external device using autonomous driving and Internet of things (IoT) technology has been remarkably developed. Control of vehicles using smart phones has become a routine feature, and over 200 Android apps are in use. However, Android apps are easy to tamper by repackaging and allowing hackers to attack vehicles with using this vulnerability, which can lead to life-critical accidents. In this study, we analyze the vulnerabilities of connected car environments when connecting with IoT technologies and demonstrate the possibility of cyberattack by performing attack experiments using real cars and repackaging for commercial apps. Furthermore, we propose a realistic security technology as a countermeasure to attain safety against cyberattacks. To evaluate the safety of the proposed method, a security module is developed and a performance evaluation is conducted on an actual vehicle.
Cocoa’s Residual Honey: Physicochemical Characterization and Potential as a Fermentative Substrate by Saccharomyces cerevisiae AWRI726
Authors: Leite Paula Bacelar , Machado Wanderson Mariano , Guimarães Alaíse Gil , Carvalho Giovani Brandão Mafra de , Teixeira Magalhães-Guedes Karina , Izabel Druzian Janice
Published: February 2019

This study aims to characterize the physicochemical properties of cocoa’s residual honey and evaluate its fermentative capacity as a substrate, using Saccharomyces cerevisiae AWRI726 as the starter culture for alcoholic fermentation. The research hypothesis was that cocoa’s residual honey can be used for the production of fermented beverages. Cocoa’s honey has 14.14 g.100 mL−1 of dry material, containing 11.80 g.100 mL−1 of carbohydrates and 1.20% crude protein, in addition to other minor components, such as pectin, lipids, and Fe, Mn, Na, and Zn, with a carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio (9.8) most suitable for fermentation. Fermentation at 20°C for 240 hours produced a liquid with 16% v/v ethanol (14 g.L−1 in 144 h). However, 24 hours of fermentation produced the maximum ethanol yield (0.373 g.g−1) and volumetric productivity (0.168 g.L−1.h−1), which were associated with a significant increase in the specific cell growth rate. Saccharomyces cerevisiae AWR1726 performed satisfactorily in the alcoholic fermentation of cocoa’s residual honey, similar to that observed in other fruit beverages, thus suggesting the suitability of cocoa’s residual honey for future commercial applications.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Deformation Behaviour of Gold Nanowires
Authors: Joshi S. K. , Pandey Kailash , Singh Sanjeev K. , Dubey Santosh
Published: February 2019

Metallic nanowires show great potential for applications in miniaturization of electronic devices due to their extraordinary mechanical strength and electrical properties. Experimental investigations of these properties are difficult due to their size and complications in performing experiments at such length scales. Computational techniques based on classical molecular dynamics simulations (using LAMMPS) provide an effective mean to understand the mechanical deformation behaviour of such nanowires with considerable accuracy and predictability. In the present investigation, we have discussed the deformation behaviour of Au nanowires due to tensile loading using classical molecular dynamics simulations (LAMMPS). The effect of strain rate and temperature on the yield strength of the nanowire has been studied in detail. The deformation mechanisms have also been discussed.
The Role of the ER-Induced UPR Pathway and the Efficacy of Its Inhibitors and Inducers in the Inhibition of Tumor Progression
Authors: Walczak Anna , Gradzik Kinga , Kabzinski Jacek , Przybylowska-Sygut Karolina , Majsterek Ireneusz
Published: February 2019

Cancer is the second most frequent cause of death worldwide. It is considered to be one of the most dangerous diseases, and there is still no effective treatment for many types of cancer. Since cancerous cells have a high proliferation rate, it is pivotal for their proper functioning to have the well-functioning protein machinery. Correct protein processing and folding are crucial to maintain tumor homeostasis. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is one of the leading factors that cause disturbances in these processes. It is induced by impaired function of the ER and accumulation of unfolded proteins. Induction of ER stress affects many molecular pathways that cause the unfolded protein response (UPR). This is the way in which cells can adapt to the new conditions, but when ER stress cannot be resolved, the UPR induces cell death. The molecular mechanisms of this double-edged sword process are involved in the transition of the UPR either in a cell protection mechanism or in apoptosis. However, this process remains poorly understood but seems to be crucial in the treatment of many diseases that are related to ER stress. Hence, understanding the ER stress response, especially in the aspect of pathological consequences of UPR, has the potential to allow us to develop novel therapies and new diagnostic and prognostic markers for cancer.
Management and Microbiological Characteristics of Membrane Formation on a Hydrophilic Acrylic Intraocular Lens: A Clinical Case Series and Material Comparative Study of Different IOLs
Authors: Qiu Xiaodi , Wu Yang , Jiang Yongxiang , Ji Yinghong , Zhu Xiangjia , Yang Jin , Lu Yi
Published: February 2019

Background/Aims. To report a case series of membrane formation on intraocular lenses (IOLs) after uneventful phacoemulsification and to evaluate the material characteristics and biofilm formation on different IOLs. Methods. Ten eyes implanted with the same type of IOLs were found to have membranes on their IOLs after uneventful phacoemulsification from May 2015 to May 2016. No other patients were found with the same phenomenon among 11236 patients who underwent cataract surgeries during this period. To further investigate the reasons for their formation, we assessed seven types of IOLs used in our hospital, including their material characteristics and the presence of microbes (Staphylococcus epidermidis) on the IOL surface by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). All IOLs were incubated under in vitro flow conditions (BioFlux 1000Z). After 36 h, the IOLs were taken from the system, and both the bound bacteria and biofilm formation were observed. Results. Five eyes underwent intravitreal injections of ceftazidime and norvancomycin with one positive culture obtained from the anterior chamber fluid. The other five eyes only received topical treatment of gatifloxacin/levofloxacin and tobramycin. At the last follow-up, all patients had best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/50 or better. In the biofilm study on the IOL surface, Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms formed more readily on hydrophilic acrylic IOLs than on hydrophobic acrylic IOLs. Conclusions. Bacterial adhesion and biofilm tend to develop on certain types of IOLs because of the characteristics of the biomaterial.
Mechanisms of Acupuncture Therapy for Simple Obesity: An Evidence-Based Review of Clinical and Animal Studies on Simple Obesity
Authors: Wang Li-Hua , Huang Wei , Wei Dan , Ding De-Guang , Liu Yi-Ran , Wang Jia-Jie , Zhou Zhong-Yu
Published: February 2019

Simple obesity is a worldwide epidemic associated with rapidly growing morbidity and mortality which imposes an enormous burden on individual and public health. As a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture has shown the positive efficacy in the management of simple obesity. In this article, we comprehensively review the clinical and animal studies that demonstrated the potential mechanisms of acupuncture treatment for simple obesity. Clinical studies suggested that acupuncture regulates endocrine system, promotes digestion, attenuates oxidative stress, and modulates relevant molecules of metabolism in patients of simple obesity. Evidence from laboratory indicated that acupuncture regulates lipid metabolism, modulates inflammatory responses, and promotes white adipose tissue browning. Acupuncture also suppresses appetite through regulating appetite regulatory hormones and the downstream signaling pathway. The evidence from clinical and animal studies indicates that acupuncture induces multifaceted regulation through complex mechanisms and moreover a single factor may not be enough to explain the beneficial effects against simple obesity.
Efficacy of Danshen Class Injection in the Treatment of Acute Cerebral Infarction: A Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Liu Shi , Wang Kaihuan , Duan Xiaojiao , Wu Jiarui , Zhang Dan , Liu Xinkui , Zhao Yi
Published: February 2019

Introduction. As a common chronic disease with high morbidity and recurrent rate, acute cerebral infarction (ACI) affects the life quality of patients and gives them heavy psychological burden. And Danshen class injections (DSCIs) are commonly adopted in treating ACI. So, this network meta-analysis (NMA) was designed to assess the clinical efficacy of eight kinds of DSCIs. Methods. A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database, the China Biomedical Literature Service System, the Chinese Scientific Journals Full-text Database, and Wanfang database from their inception to 16th Dec. 2017 aiming to collect related randomized controlled trials (RCTs). And then data were analyzed through Stata and WinBUGS software based on the Bayesian statistical model. The results were reported as odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) with 95% credible intervals (CIs). The consistency test between direct and indirect comparisons was also evaluated and inconsistency factor was presented to manifest the heterogeneity among them. Meanwhile, the surface under the cumulative ranking probabilities (SUCRA) was utilized to rank the treatments in different outcomes. Results. Finally, 157 RCTs with 15570 patients were included. A total of eight types DSCIs were identified. Based on the results, Sodium Tanshinone IIA Sulfonate injection (STS) plus western medicine (WM) had better effect on the clinical effectiveness rate, neurological impairment, and activities of daily living function than others. Meanwhile, Danhong injection (DS) and Danshen Salvianolic Acids injection (DSSA) had excellent performance in perfecting hemorheological indexes. Conclusions. In conclusion, STS plus WM may be the optimum treatment for ACI. The following therapies were DS plus WM and DSSA plus WM. Nevertheless, in terms of the limitations of the study, more large samples, multicenter, and double-blind RCTs are still needed for validating our findings.
Association of Endothelial Function with Parental Hypertension in Normotensive-Obese African-American Women: A Pilot Study
Authors: Bond Vernon , Becknel Karissa , Kumar Krishna , Dorsey James , Gorantla Vasavi R. , Volkova Yulia A. , Millis Richard M.
Published: February 2019

Obese African-American (AA) women are at high risk of hypertension (HT) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and arterial augmentation index (AI) are measures of endothelial function and arterial stiffness. Whether endothelial function and arterial stiffness predict risk of HT or CVD in obese African-American women with, versus without, parental histories of HT and whether aerobic exercise is an effective countermeasure remain unclear. The capacity for FMD is partly heritable. Therefore, we tested the hypotheses that less FMD and greater AI may be found in normotensive-obese, young-adult (18-26 year-old) AA women with hypertensive parents (n=10) than in a matched control group with normotensive parents (n=10) and that a single bout of aerobic exercise improves both endothelial function and arterial stiffness, with less improvement in the women with hypertensive parents. We studied each subject while at rest, 20 min before and 20 min after, 30 min of aerobic exercise. The exercise-induced changes and parental hypertension-related differences in AI were not significant. The exercise increased FMD in both of the groups with no significant difference in magnitude between the women with hypertensive and normotensive parents. FMD was significantly less in the women with hypertensive parents than in the women with normotensive parents after, but not before, the exercise (mean ±95% confidence interval of 11.3 ± 4.9% vs. 15.6 ± 4.9%, P=0.05). These findings suggest that a 30-min bout of aerobic exercise may improve FMD and unmask endothelial dysfunction in normotensive-obese, young-adult AA women with parental histories of HT. Future studies should determine whether regular aerobic exercise protects obese AA women from the endothelial dysfunction associated with diabetes and prevents CVD in this high-risk population.
The Dynamic Three-Dimensional Localization of Fields in Active Percolating Systems
Authors: Burlak Gennadiy
Published: February 2019

We study a dynamic three-dimensional (3D) field localized states in a medium with percolation disorder, where the percolation cluster is filled by the active nanoemitters. In such a system, the incipient percolating cluster generates a fractal radiating structure in which the field is radiated and scattered by the anisotropic inhomogeneity. Our numerical 3D simulations show that such a nonlinear system with noninteger fractal dimension has well-defined localized solutions for fields (3D speckles). The statistics of speckles is studied too.
Silica-Reinforced Natural Rubber: Synergistic Effects by Addition of Small Amounts of Secondary Fillers to Silica-Reinforced Natural Rubber Tire Tread Compounds
Authors: Sattayanurak S. , Noordermeer J. W. M. , Sahakaro K. , Kaewsakul W. , Dierkes W. K. , Blume A.
Published: February 2019

Modern fuel-saving tire treads are commonly reinforced by silica due to the fact that this leads to lower rolling resistance and higher wet grip compared to carbon black-filled alternatives. The introduction of secondary fillers into the silica-reinforced tread compounds, often named hybrid fillers, may have the potential to improve tire performance further. In the present work, two secondary fillers organoclay nanofiller and N134 carbon black were added to silica-based natural rubber compounds at a proportion of silica/secondary filler of 45/10 phr. The compounds were prepared with variable mixing temperatures based on the mixing procedure commonly in use for silica-filled NR systems. The results of Mooney viscosity, Payne effect, cure behavior, and mechanical properties imply that the silica hydrophobation and coupling reaction of the silane coupling agent with silica and elastomer are significantly influenced by organoclay due to an effect of its modifier: an organic ammonium derivative. This has an effect on scorch safety and cure rate. The compounds where carbon black was added as a secondary filler do not show this behavior. They give inferior filler dispersion compared to the pure silica-filled compound, attributed to an inappropriate high mixing temperature and the high specific surface area of the carbon black used. The dynamic properties indicate that there is a potential to improve wet traction and rolling resistance of a tire tread when using organoclay as secondary filler, while the combination of carbon black in silica-filled NR does not change these properties.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Chuanhutongfeng Mixture for the Treatment of Chronic Gouty Arthritis by Regulating miRNAs
Authors: Wang Yao , Dong Liping , Liu Peng , Chen Ying , Jia Shaodan , Wang Yangang
Published: February 2019

Background. We investigated whether Chuanhutongfeng mixture has actions on chronic gouty arthritis (CGA) by regulating miRNAs. Methods. A total of 255 patients with CGA and 30 controls were enrolled. miRNA expression profiles and cluster analysis were preformed; RT-qPCR was used to detect miRNAs associated with CGA. Patients were allocated into Chuanhutongfeng mixture, allopurinol (positive control), and control (etoricoxib) groups. Expression of plasma miRNAs was measured before and after treatments; expression of chemokine 2 (CCL2) and interleukin 8 (CXCL8) was determined by ELISA. Results. 48 miRNAs were differentially expressed and compared to controls. 36 miRNAs expression levels were > 1.5 times and 12 miRNAs < 1.5 times compared to the controls. miR-339-5p, miR-486-5p, and miR-361-5p levels in patients with CGA were lower than in controls (P < 0.05). This trial showed that the Chuanhutongfeng mixture and allopurinol groups had upregulated the expressions of miR-486-5, miR-339-5p, and miR-361-5p and decreased levels of CCL2 and CXCL8 proteins. After 8 weeks of treatment, Chuanhutongfeng mixture decreased serum uric acid levels more than allopurinol (P < 0.05) and reduced levels of CCL2 and CXCL8 protein significantly more than in the allopurinol and control groups. Conclusions. The therapeutic actions of Chuanhutongfeng mixture inhibit the expression of proteins CCL2 and CXCL8 in plasma and upregulated the expressions of three miRNAs (miR-486-5p, miR-339-5p, and miR-361-5p).
The Influences of Key Strata Compound Breakage on the Overlying Strata Movement and Strata Pressure Behavior in Fully Mechanized Caving Mining of Shallow and Extremely Thick Seams: A Case Study
Authors: Li Junmeng , Huang Yanli , Zhang Jixiong , Li Meng , Qiao Ming , Wang Fengwan
Published: February 2019

In order to analyze the impact of compound breakage of key strata on overlying strata movement and strata pressure behavior during the fully mechanized caving mining in shallow and extremely thick seams, this paper took the 1322 fully mechanized caving face in Jindi Coal Mine in Xing County as the engineering background. Under the special mining and geological condition mentioned above, UDEC numerical simulation software was applied to research the engineering problems, and results of numerical simulation were verified through the in‐site measurement. The research results showed that during the fully mechanized caving mining in shallow and extremely thick seams, the inferior key strata affected by mining movement behaved in the mode of sliding instability and could not form the stable structure of the voussoir beam after breaking and caving. In addition, the main key strata behaved in the mode of rotary instability, and the caving rocks behind the goaf were gradually compacted because of the periodic instability of the main key strata. With the continuous advance of the working face, the abutment pressure of the working face was affected by the compound breakage and periodic instability of both the inferior key strata and the main key strata, and the peaks of the abutment pressure presented small‐big‐small‐big periodical change characteristics. Meanwhile, the risk of rib spalling ahead of the working face presented different levels of acute or slowing trends. The actual measurement results of ground pressure in the working face showed that, in the working process, the first weighting interval of the inferior key strata was about 51 m and its average periodic weighting interval was about 12.6 m, both of which were basically consistent with the results of numerical simulation. The research has great significance in providing theoretical guidance and practical experience for predicting and controlling the ground pressure under the similar mining and geological conditions.
Pulmonary Densitovolumetry Using Computed Tomography in Patients with Nontuberculous Mycobacteria: Correlation with Pulmonary Function Tests
Authors: De Marca Patricia Gomes Cytrangulo , Goldenberg Telma , Mello Fernanda Carvalho Queiroz , Carvalho Alysson Roncally Silva , Guimarães Alan Ranieri Medeiros , Mogami Roberto , Lopes Agnaldo José
Published: February 2019

Background. Since nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) is a condition with increasing morbidity, a more detailed knowledge of radiological aspects and pulmonary function plays a relevant role in the diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic management of these patients. Objectives. The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in lung parenchyma through computed tomography (CT) densitometry and, secondarily, to analyze its correlation with pulmonary function testing (PFT) in patients with NTM-PD. Methods. This is a cross-sectional study in which 31 patients with NTM-PD and 27 controls matched by sex, age, and body mass index underwent CT pulmonary densitovolumetry and pulmonary function tests including spirometry and body plethysmograph. Results. Based on the total lung volume (TLV) and total lung mass (TLM) measurements, the cumulative mass ratios were calculated for 3% (M3), 15% (M15), 85% (M85), and 97% (M97) of the TLV. We also calculated the complement, which is represented by TLM (100%) minus the mass of 15% (C85) or 3% (C97) of the TLV. Patients with NTM-PD presented lower values ​​of M3 and M15 than controls, with greater significant differences in the apical third and middle third measurements. Compared to controls, patients with NTM-PD showed higher values ​​of C85 and C97, although significant differences were observed only in the basal third measurements. There were negative correlations of total lung capacity with M3 and M15 in the middle third and apical third measurements. There were positive correlations of residual volume and airway resistance with M3 at the apical third measurement. Conclusions. Patients with NTM-PD show reduced lung mass and increased lung mass in the apical and basal regions of the lungs, respectively. Furthermore, there is a relationship between lung mass measurements and pulmonary function parameters.
Effects of Therapy with Light Emitting Diode (LED) in the Calcaneal Tendon Lesions of Rats: A Literature Review
Authors: Nascimento Lízia Daniela e Silva , Nascimento Kárita Francisca e Silva , Pessoa Diego Rodrigues , Nicolau Renata Amadei
Published: February 2019

The objective of this review was to analyze original articles about the effects of therapy with LED in experimental models of calcaneal tendon lesions of rats. The search was performed in the period from February to May 2018, in the following electronic databases: MEDLINE, SciELO, and LILACS, besides the Google Scholar, using the descriptors “Achilles tendon”, “Rats”, “LED”, “Tendinopathy”, and “Low-level Light Therapy”, as well as their matching parts in the Portuguese and Spanish languages, related to and in association with the relevant terms to the content sought. From the descriptors used 215 works were found. After application of eligibility criteria 8 works were selected, in which positive results were found after the application of the LED. Regarding the main results found with phototherapy, we observed a significant reduction in inflammation. Only one article mentioned little reduction of inflammation. In relation to the number of sessions, there was wide variation, with an average of approximately 5 sessions every 24 hours. Studies in this review pointed out, therefore, positive results in the repair of the calcaneal tendon after therapy with irradiation LED; however, carrying out more experimental studies that help the standardization of parameters to be used in this therapy for further clinical studies becomes necessary.
Diversity Assessment of Some Sesame (Sesamum indicumL.) Genotypes Cultivated in Northern Ghana Using Morphological and Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) Markers
Authors: Adu-Gyamfi Raphael , Prempeh Ruth , Zakaria Issahaku
Published: February 2019

In Ghana, sesame is cultivated in some districts of northern Ghana. Genotypes cultivated are land races that are low yielding leading to decline in production. There is the need for improvement of these land races to generate high yielding cultivars. Characterization of genetic diversity of the sesame land races will be of great value in assisting in parental lines selection for sesame breeding programmes in Ghana. Twenty-five sesame land races were collected from five districts in northern Ghana noted for sesame cultivation. Seeds collected were planted in three replicates in randomized complete block design and were evaluated for a number of morphological characters. Data collected were subjected to Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and a dendrogram showing similarity between the accessions were drawn. Data on number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsule, and plant height at flowering were subjected to analysis of variance using GenStat Discovery Edition 4. Molecular genetic diversity was assessed by using thirty eight SSR markers widely distributed across sesame genome to characterize the materials. Twenty-one out of the 38 primers were polymorphic. Cluster analyses using the Euclidean similarity test and a complete link clustering method were used to make a dendrogram out of the morphological data. Analysis of variance showed that capsule number was significantly different; a range of 54.9 and 146.7 was produced. The number of seeds per capsule varied significantly and the variation between highest and lowest accession in seed production was 33%. Plant height was also significantly different ranging from 60.6 to 94.1 cm. Using morphological traits the accessions clustered into two major groups and two minor groups and variation among accessions were 10-61%. On the other hand, SSR marker-based dendrogram revealed five major and two minor groups. It showed that variation among the accessions was low, 10-20%. Heterozygosity was 0.52, total alleles produced were 410, and average allele per locus was 19.52. Six accessions, C3, C4, S5, W1, W3, and W5 fell in five different clusters in the SSR dendrogram and in six clusters in the morphomolecular based dendrogram. These accessions were noted for high capsule number per plant and seeds number per capsule and are recommended for consideration as potential parental lines for breeding programme for high yield.
Identification of Differentially Expressed Genes and Long Noncoding RNAs Associated with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Chi Lu-Mei , Wang Li-Ping , Jiao Dan
Published: February 2019

Objectives. This study aims to determine differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) associated with Parkinson’s disease (PD) using a microarray. Methods. We downloaded the microarray data GSE6613 from the Gene Expression Omnibus, which included 105 samples. We selected 72 samples comprising 22 healthy control blood samples and 50 PD blood samples for further analysis. Later, we used Limma to screen DEGs and differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) and estimated their functions by the Gene Ontology (GO). Besides, the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network, including microRNAs, lncRNAs, and mRNAs, was constructed to elucidate the regulatory mechanism. Furthermore, we performed the KEGG pathway enrichment with mRNAs in the ceRNA regulatory network and constructed a final network, including pathways, mRNAs, microRNAs, and lncRNAs. Results. Overall, we obtained 394 DEGs, including 207 upregulated DEGs and 187 downregulated DEGs, and 7 DElncRNAs, including 2 upregulated DElncRNAs and 5 downregulated DElncRNAs. Insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R) was considerably enriched in the endocytosis pathway. In the ceRNA regulation network, IGF1R was the target of hsa-miR-133b and lncRNAs of XIST, and PART1 could also be the target of hsa-miR-133b. While the upregulated DEGs were enriched in the GO terms of the cytoskeleton, cytoskeletal part, and microtubule cytoskeleton, the downregulated DEGs were enriched in the immune response. PRKACA was markedly enriched in numerous pathways, including the MAPK and insulin signaling pathways. Conclusions. IGF1R, PRKACA, and lncRNA-XIST could be potentially involved in PD, and these diverse molecular mechanisms could support the development of the similar treatment for PD.
Evaluating Sensitivity of the Ranking of Forest Fuel Treatments to Manager’s Risk Attitudes and the Importance of Treatment Objectives, Montana, USA
Authors: Prato Tony , Paveglio Travis
Published: February 2019

This study develops a conceptual framework for evaluating the sensitivity of the ranking of forest fuel treatment strategies (FTSs) to variation in managers’ risk attitudes and the importance ratings managers assign to fuel treatment objectives and demonstrates the application of the framework using a case study. The conceptual framework involves (1) defining a utility function on an index that is a weighted average of fuel treatment objectives and incorporates a manager’s risk attitude; (2) using the utility function to calculate utility values for FTSs; (3) applying the stochastic efficiency with respect to a function method to utility values to obtain certainty equivalents (CEs); and (4) ranking FTSs based on statistically significant differences in median CEs for pairs of FTSs. The case study involves three (federal, state, and private) forested areas in Flathead County, Montana, USA, three FTSs (i.e., Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) Priority; CWPP & Wildland-Urban Interface Priority; and No Priority), three treatment objectives (i.e., minimizing expected residential monetary losses from wildfire, minimizing expected deviation of forest ecological conditions from their historic range and variability, and maximizing expected net returns from timber harvesting associated with fuel treatment), two risk attitudes (i.e., almost risk neutral and highly risk averse), and 35 weight scenarios for treatment objectives. Case study results are used to test the hypothesis that the ranking of FTSs is sensitive to manager’s risk attitudes and the importance ratings for management objectives. The ranking of FTSs for the three forested areas was insensitive for an almost risk neutral manager and sensitive for a highly risk averse manager. In general, the case study indicates that the ranking of FTSs is sensitive to both a forest manager’s risk attitudes and the importance ratings assigned to fuel treatment objectives.
Allergic Airway-Induced Hypersensitivity Is Attenuated by Bergapten in Murine Models of Inflammation
Authors: Aidoo Douglas B. , Obiri David D. , Osafo Newman , Antwi Aaron O. , Essel Leslie B. , Duduyemi Babatunde M. , Ekor Martins
Published: February 2019

Bergapten (5-methoxypsoralen, 5-MOP) is a plant-derived furocoumarin with demonstrated anti-inflammatory action. The present study investigated its effects on allergic inflammation in two related pathways of mast cell degranulation. Compound 48/80 and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were used to activate the IgE-independent pathway while bovine serum albumin (BSA) was used as allergen for the IgE-dependent pathway. The modulatory effect of bergapten on mast cell degranulation, neutrophil extravasation, protein concentration, lung histopathology, and oxidative stress was assessed. Bergapten at 10, 30, and 100 μg/ml for 15 min stabilized mast cells in rat mesenteric tissue from disruptionin vitroand when administeredin vivoat 3, 10, and 30 mg kg−1for 1 h protected mice from fatal anaphylaxis induced by compound 48/80. Similarly, treatment of LPS-challenged mice with bergapten (3, 10, and 30 mg kg−1) for 24 h significantly decreased neutrophil infiltration into bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, mean protein concentration, and inflammatory cell infiltration of pulmonary tissues when compared to the saline-treated LPS-challenged control. In addition, lung histology of the bergapten-treated LPS-challenged mice showed significantly less oedema, congestion, and alveolar septa thickening when compared to the saline-treated LPS-challenged disease control. LPS-induced oxidative stress was significantly reduced through increased tissue activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase and reduced malondialdehyde levels on treatment with bergapten. In the triple antigen-induced active anaphylaxis, daily administration of bergapten at 3, 10, and 30 mg kg−1for 10 days, respectively, protected previously sensitized and challenged mice against anaphylactic shock. Overall, our study demonstrates the ability of bergapten to attenuate allergic airway-induced hypersensitivity in murine models of inflammation, suggesting its possible therapeutic benefit in this condition.