bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simple risk score based on the China Acute Myocardial Infarction registry for predicting in-hospital mortality among patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: results of a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Song Chenxi , Fu Rui , Li Sidong , Yang Jingang , Wang Yan , Xu Haiyan , Gao Xiaojin , Liu Jia , Liu Qianqian , Wang Chunyue , Dou Kefei , Yang Yuejin
Published: September 2019

Objectives

To simplify our previous risk score for predicting the in-hospital mortality risk in patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) by dropping laboratory data.

Design

Prospective cohort.

Setting

Multicentre, 108 hospitals across three levels in China.

Participants

A total of 5775 patients with NSTEMI enrolled in the China Acute Myocardial Infarction (CAMI) registry.

Primary outcome measures

In-hospital mortality.

Results

The simplified CAMI-NSTEMI (SCAMI-NSTEMI) score includes the following nine variables: age, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, Killip classification, cardiac arrest, ST-segment depression on ECG, smoking status, previous angina and previous percutaneous coronary intervention. Within both the derivation and validation cohorts, the SCAMI-NSTEMI score showed a good discrimination ability (C-statistics: 0.76 and 0.83, respectively); further, the SCAMI-NSTEMI score had a diagnostic performance superior to that of the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events risk score (C-statistics: 0.78 and 0.73, respectively; p<0.0001 for comparison). The in-hospital mortality increased significantly across the different risk groups.

Conclusions

The SCAMI-NSTEMI score can serve as a useful tool facilitating rapid risk assessment among a broader spectrum of patients admitted owing to NSTEMI.

Trial registration number

NCT01874691.
Does diabetes influence the probability of experiencing chronic low back pain? A population-based cohort study: the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study
Authors: Heuch Ingrid , Heuch Ivar , Hagen Knut , Sørgjerd Elin Pettersen , Åsvold Bjørn Olav , Zwart John-Anker
Published: September 2019

Objective

Low back pain (LBP) is a major problem in modern society and it is important to study possible risk factors for this disorder. People with diabetes are often affected by LBP, but whether diabetes represents a risk factor for LBP has not been studied in detail. The aim of this study was to explore the association between diabetes and subsequent risk of chronic LBP.

Design

An 11-year follow-up study.

Setting

The Nord-Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT2; 1995–1997) and HUNT3 (2006–2008) surveys of Nord-Trøndelag County in Norway.

Main outcome measure

Chronic LBP, defined as LBP persisting at least 3 months continuously during the last year.

Participants

A total of 18 972 persons without chronic LBP at baseline in HUNT2, and 6802 persons who reported chronic LBP at baseline in HUNT2.

Methods

Associations between diabetes and risk of chronic LBP among individuals aged 30–69 years were examined by generalised linear modelling.

Results

Men without chronic LBP at baseline showed a significant association between diabetes and risk of chronic LBP (relative risk (RR) 1.43, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.96, p=0.043). In women, no association was found (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.48, p=0.98). No association could be established between diabetes and recurrence or persistence of chronic LBP after 11 years in either sex.

Conclusions

Men with a diagnosis of diabetes may have a higher risk of subsequently experiencing chronic LBP.
Risk factors for head and neck cancer in the World Trade Center Health Program General Responder Cohort: results from a nested case–control study
Authors: Bover Manderski Michelle T , Black Kathleen , Udasin Iris G , Giuliano Anna R , Steinberg Michael B , Ohman Strickland Pamela , Black Taylor M , Dasaro Christopher R , Crane Michael , Harrison Denise , Moline Jacqueline , Luft Benjamin J , Passannante Marian R , Lucchini Roberto G , Todd Andrew C , Graber Judith M
Published: September 2019

Objectives

Head and neck cancers (HNCs) may be among the health consequences of involvement in the World Trade Center (WTC) response on and after 11 September 2001. We conducted a nested case–control study of WTC Health Program (WTCHP) general responders to examine the effects of WTC exposures and behavioural risk factors on HNC.

Methods

We enrolled 64 cases and 136 controls, matched on age, sex and race/ethnicity within risk sets. We assessed tobacco and alcohol use, sexual activity, and occupational exposures prior to, during and after WTC exposure until case diagnosis via questionnaire. We obtained WTC exposure information (duration (first to last day), total days and location of work) from the WTCHP General Responder Data Center. We assessed associations with HNC, and interaction among exposures, using conditional logistic regression.

Results

Responders in protective services versus other occupations had increased odds (OR: 2.51, 95% CI 1.09 to 5.82) of HNC. Among those in non-protective services occupations, arriving to the WTC effort on versus after 11 September 2001 was significantly associated with HNC (OR: 3.77, 95% CI 1.00 to 14.11). Duration of work was not significantly associated with HNC. Lifetime and post-WTC years of cigarette smoking and post-WTC number of sex partners were positively and significantly associated with HNC, while alcohol consumption was not.

Conclusions

These findings suggest opportunities for HNC risk factor mitigation (eg, smoking cessation, human papillomavirus vaccination) and contribute to a risk factor profile which may assist WTCHP clinicians with identifying high-risk responders and improve detection and treatment outcomes in this population.
Opacity dependence of elliptic flow in kinetic theory
Authors: Kurkela Aleksi , Wiedemann Urs Achim , Wu Bin
Published: September 2019

The observation of large azimuthal anisotropies $$v_n$$vn in the particle spectra of proton–proton (pp) and proton–nucleus (pA) collisions challenges fluid dynamic interpretations of $$v_n$$vn, as it remains unclear how small collision systems can hydrodynamize and to what extent hydrodynamization is needed to build up $$v_n$$vn. Here, we study in a simple kinetic theory how the same physics that leads to hydrodynamization in large systems represents itself in small systems. We observe that one third to one half of the elliptic flow signal seen in fully hydrodynamized systems can be built up in collisions that extend over only one mean free path $$l_\mathrm{mfp}$$lmfp and that do not hydrodynamize. This is qualitatively in line with observing a sizeable $$v_2$$v2 in pp collisions for which other characteristics of soft multi-particle production seem well-described in a free-streaming picture. We further expose a significant system size dependence in the accuracy of hybrid approaches that match kinetic theory to viscous fluid dynamics. The implications of these findings for a reliable extraction of shear viscosity are discussed.
A Combined Experimental and Numerical Study of the Effect of Surface Roughness on Nanoindentation
Authors: Nazemian M. , Chamani M. , Baghani M.
Published: September 2019

Gold and copper thin films are widely used in microelectromechanical system (MEMS) and nanoelectromechanical system (NEMS) devices. Nanoindentation has been developed in mechanical characterization of thin films in recent years. Several researchers have examined the effect of surface roughness on nanoindentation results. It is proved that the surface roughness has great importance in nanoindentation of thin films. In this paper, the surface topography of thin films is simulated using the extracted data from the atomic force microscopy (AFM) images. Nanoindentation on a rough surface is simulated using a three-dimensional finite-element model. The results are compared with the results of finite-element analysis on a smooth surface and the experimental results. The results revealed that the surface roughness plays a key role in nanoindentation of thin films, especially at low indentation depths. There was good compatibility between the results of finite-element simulation on the rough surface and those of experiments. It is observed that on rough films, at low indentation depths, the geometry of the location where the nanoindentation is performed is of major importance.
Strategic geotechnical asset management
Authors: Spink Tim
Published: September 2019

Strategic geotechnical asset management considers the whole of an organization's earthworks portfolio and is concerned with setting an overall earthworks asset management policy with long-term objectives related to asset performance, safety and condition, and identifying how those objectives can best be met, now and into the future. A risk-based approach is adopted that requires an understanding of the likelihood that any of the earthworks may fail, combined with a knowledge of the consequences should they fail. Procedures are required to identify those earthworks that are most vulnerable to failure under the influence of triggering events, such as extreme weather. The risks are managed through a mix of interventions to reduce the likelihood of failure and mitigations to reduce the impact of failure. Many of the challenges of implementing a strategic earthworks policy have, or are, being met by the main UK transportation infrastructure organizations.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Ground-related risk to transportation infrastructure collection available at
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/Ground-related-risk-to-transportation-infrastructure
Stochastic Optimization for Green Multimedia Services in Dense 5G Networks
Authors: Cao Tengfei , Xu Changqiao , Wang Mu , Jiang Zhongbai , Chen Xingyan , Zhong Lujie , Grieco Luigi Alfredo
Published: September 2019

The manyfold capacity magnification promised by dense 5G networks will make possible the provisioning of broadband multimedia services, including virtual reality, augmented reality, and mobile immersive video, to name a few. These new applications will coexist with classic ones and contribute to the exponential growth of multimedia services in mobile networks. At the same time, the different requirements of past and old services pose new challenges to the effective usage of 5G resources. In response to these challenges, a novel Stochastic Optimization framework for Green Multimedia Services named SOGMS is proposed herein that targets the maximization of system throughput and the minimization of energy consumption in data delivery. In particular, Lyapunov optimization is leveraged to face this optimization objective, which is formulated and decomposed into three tractable subproblems. For each subproblem, a distinct algorithm is conceived, namely quality of experience--based admission control, cooperative resource allocation, and multimedia services scheduling. Finally, extensive simulations are carried out to evaluate the proposed method against state-of-art solutions in dense 5G networks.
Skeletal muscle mitochondrial function and exercise capacity are not impaired in mice with knockout of STAT3
Authors: Dent Jessica R. , Hetrick Byron , Tahvilian Shahriar , Sathe Abha , Greyslak Keenan , LaBarge Samuel A. , Svensson Kristoffer , McCurdy Carrie E. , Schenk Simon
Published: September 2019

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) was recently found to be localized to mitochondria in a number of tissues and cell types, where it modulates oxidative phosphorylation via interactions with the electron transport proteins, complex I and complex II. Skeletal muscle is densely populated with mitochondria although whether STAT3 contributes to skeletal muscle oxidative capacity is unknown. In the present study, we sought to elucidate the contribution of STAT3 to mitochondrial and skeletal muscle function by studying mice with muscle-specific knockout of STAT3 (mKO). First, we developed a novel flow cytometry-based approach to confirm that STAT3 is present in skeletal muscle mitochondria. However, contrary to findings in other tissue types, complex I and complex II activity and maximal mitochondrial respiratory capacity in skeletal muscle were comparable between mKO mice and floxed/wild-type littermates. Moreover, there were no genotype differences in endurance exercise performance, skeletal muscle force-generating capacity, or the adaptive response of skeletal muscle to voluntary wheel running. Collectively, although we confirm the presence of STAT3 in skeletal muscle mitochondria, our data establish that STAT3 is dispensable for mitochondrial and physiological function in skeletal muscle.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Whether signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) can regulate the activity of complex I and II of the electron transport chain and mitochondrial oxidative capacity in skeletal muscle, as it can in other tissues, is unknown. By using a mouse model lacking STAT3 in muscle, we demonstrate that skeletal muscle mitochondrial and physiological function, both in vivo and ex vivo, is not impacted by the loss of STAT3.
Diffuse correlation spectroscopy and frequency-domain near-infrared spectroscopy for measuring microvascular blood flow in dynamically exercising human muscles
Authors: Quaresima Valentina , Farzam Parisa , Anderson Pamela , Farzam Parya Y. , Wiese Daniel , Carp Stefan A. , Ferrari Marco , Franceschini Maria Angela
Published: September 2019

In the last 20 yr, near-infrared diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) has been developed for providing a noninvasive estimate of microvascular blood flow (BF) as a BF index (BFi) in the human skin, muscle, breast, brain, and other tissue types. In this study, we proposed a new motion correction algorithm for DCS-derived BFi able to remove motion artifacts during cycling exercise. We tested this algorithm on DCS data collected during cycling exercise and demonstrated that DCS can be used to quantify muscle BFi during dynamic high-intensity exercise. In addition, we measured tissue regional oxygen metabolic rate (MRO2i) by combining frequency-domain multidistance near-infrared spectroscopy (FDNIRS) oximetry with DCS flow measures. Recreationally active subjects ( n = 12; 31 ± 8 yr, 183 ± 4 cm, 79 ± 10 kg) pedaled at 80–100 revolutions/min until volitional fatigue with a work rate increase of 30 W every 4 min. Exercise intensity was normalized in each subject to the cycling power peak (Wpeak). Both rectus femoris BFi and MRO2i increased from 15% up to 75% Wpeak and then plateaued to the end of the exercise. During the recovery at 30 W cycling power, BFi remained almost constant, whereas MRO2i started to decrease. The BFi/MRO2i plateau was associated with the rising of the lactate concentration, indicating the progressive involvement of the anaerobic metabolism. These findings further highlight the utility of DCS and FDNIRS oximetry as effective, reproducible, and noninvasive techniques to assess muscle BFi and MRO2i in real time during a dynamic exercise such as cycling.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to demonstrate that diffuse correlation spectroscopy in combination with frequency-domain near-infrared spectroscopy can monitor human quadriceps microvascular blood flow and oxygen metabolism with high temporal resolution during a cycling exercise. The optically measured parameters confirm the expected relationship between blood flow, muscle oxidative metabolism, and lactate production during exercise.
Respiratory-related displacement of the trachea in obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Tong Joshua , Jugé Lauriane , Burke Peter GR , Knapman Fiona , Eckert Danny J , Bilston Lynne E , Amatoury Jason
Published: September 2019

Tracheal displacement is thought to be the primary mechanism by which changes in lung volume influence upper airway patency. Caudal tracheal displacement during inspiration may help preserve the integrity of the upper airway in response to increasing negative airway pressure by stretching and stiffening pharyngeal tissues. However, tracheal displacement has not been previously quantified in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Accordingly, we aimed to measure tracheal displacements in awake individuals with and without OSA. The upper head and neck of 34 participants [apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) = 2–74 events/h] were imaged in the midsagittal plane using dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) during supine awake quiet breathing. MRI data were analyzed to identify peak tracheal displacement and its timing relative to inspiration. Epiglottic pressure was measured separately for a subset of participants ( n = 30) during similar experimental conditions. Nadir epiglottic pressure and its timing relative to inspiration were quantified. Peak tracheal displacement ranged from 1.0–9.6 mm, with a median (25th–75th percentile) of 2.3 (1.7–3.5) mm, and occurred at 89 (78–99)% of inspiratory time. Peak tracheal displacement increased with increasing OSA severity (AHI) ( R2 = 0.28, P = 0.013) and increasing negative nadir epiglottic pressure ( R2 = 0.47, P = 0.023). Relative inspiratory timing of peak tracheal displacement also correlated with OSA severity, with peak displacement occurring earlier in inspiration with increasing AHI ( R2 = 0.36, P = 0.002). Tracheal displacements during quiet breathing are larger in individuals with more severe OSA and tend to reach peak displacement earlier in the inspiratory cycle. Increased tracheal displacement may contribute to maintenance of upper airway patency during wakefulness in OSA, particularly in those with severe disease.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Tracheal displacement is thought to play an important role in stabilizing the upper airway by stretching/stiffening the pharyngeal musculature. Using dynamic magnetic resonance imaging, this study shows that caudal tracheal displacement is more pronounced during inspiration in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) compared with healthy individuals. Softer pharyngeal muscles and greater inspiratory forces in OSA may underpin greater tracheal excursion. These findings suggest that tracheal displacement may contribute to maintenance of pharyngeal patency during wakefulness in OSA.
Consistent expression pattern of myogenic regulatory factors in whole muscle and isolated human muscle satellite cells after eccentric contractions in humans
Authors: Nederveen Joshua P. , Fortino Stephen A. , Baker Jeff M. , Snijders Tim , Joanisse Sophie , McGlory Chris , McKay Bryon R. , Kumbhare Dinesh , Parise Gianni
Published: September 2019

Skeletal muscle satellite cells (SC) play an important role in muscle repair following injury. The regulation of SC activity is governed by myogenic regulatory factors (MRF), including MyoD, Myf5, myogenin, and MRF4. The mRNA expression of these MRF in humans following muscle damage has been predominately measured in whole muscle homogenates. Whether the temporal expression of MRF in a whole muscle homogenate reflects SC-specific expression of MRF remains largely unknown. Sixteen young men (23.1 ± 1.0 yr) performed 300 unilateral eccentric contractions (180°/s) of the knee extensors. Percutaneous muscle biopsies from the vastus lateralis were taken before (Pre) and 48 h postexercise. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis was utilized to purify NCAM+muscle SC from the whole muscle homogenate. Forty-eight hours post-eccentric exercise, MyoD, Myf5, and myogenin mRNA expression were increased in the whole muscle homogenate (~1.4-, ~4.0-, ~1.7-fold, respectively, P < 0.05) and in isolated SC (~19.3-, ~17.5-, ~58.9-fold, respectively, P < 0.05). MRF4 mRNA expression was not increased 48 h postexercise in the whole muscle homogenate ( P > 0.05) or in isolated SC ( P > 0.05). In conclusion, our results suggest that the directional changes in mRNA expression of the MRF in a whole muscle homogenate in response to acute eccentric exercise reflects that observed in isolated muscle SC.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The myogenic program is controlled via transcription factors referred to as myogenic regulatory factors (MRF). Previous studies have derived MRF expression from whole muscle homogenates, but little work has examined whether the mRNA expression of these transcripts reflects the pattern of expression in the actual population of satellite cells (SC). We report that MRF expression from an enriched SC population reflects the directional pattern of expression from skeletal muscle biopsy samples following eccentric contractions.
Current Principles of Motor Control, with Special Reference to Vertebrate Locomotion
Authors: Grillner Sten , El Manira Abdeljabbar
Published: September 2019

The vertebrate control of locomotion involves all levels of the nervous system from cortex to the spinal cord. Here, we aim to cover all main aspects of this complex behavior, from the operation of the microcircuits in the spinal cord to the systems and behavioral levels and extend from mammalian locomotion to the basic undulatory movements of lamprey and fish. The cellular basis of propulsion represents the core of the control system, and it involves the spinal central pattern generator networks (CPGs) controlling the timing of different muscles, the sensory compensation for perturbations, and the brain stem command systems controlling the level of activity of the CPGs and the speed of locomotion. The forebrain and in particular the basal ganglia are involved in determining which motor programs should be recruited at a given point of time and can both initiate and stop locomotor activity. The propulsive control system needs to be integrated with the postural control system to maintain body orientation. Moreover, the locomotor movements need to be steered so that the subject approaches the goal of the locomotor episode, or avoids colliding with elements in the environment or simply escapes at high speed. These different aspects will all be covered in the review.
Evidence of Multiple Sources of Soil Gas in the Tangshan Fault Zone, North China
Authors: Chen Zhi , Li Ying , Liu Zhaofei , Lu Chang , Zhao Yuanxin , Wang Jiang
Published: September 2019

The sources of soil gases in the Tangshan fault zone, North China, were discussed, based on the soil gas compositions and isotopic ratios obtained by measurement in the field and sample analysis in the laboratory. Soil gas compositions and isotopic ratios indicate that air (A) end-member, limestone (L) end-member, and sediment (S) end-member are the major end-member components contributing to the soil gas in our study area, with fractional contributions in the range of 2-15 vol.%, 23-36 vol.%, and 62-65 vol.%, respectively, to CO2 from the gas wells. According to the relationship among the 3He/4He, average CO2 concentration, and He concentration of soil gas, the deepest depth the fault cut downward and the most developed fractures in the segment where the Heibeiligong (HBLG) well located were inferred, and the shallower depth the fault cut downward and the more developed fractures in the fault segments where the Weifengshan (WFS), Siwangzhuang (SWZ), Tianjingyice (TJYC), and Douhetai (DHT) wells located were inferred. Significant variations in CO2 concentration were observed in soil gases sampled in DHT, HBLG, and WFS soil gas wells in concomitance with a local seismic sequence by 2018 confirming for the first time a possible source of carbon dioxide generated in underlying limestones.
Optimal Design of Multiband Microstrip Antennas by Self-Renewing Fitness Estimation of Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Fan Xiaohong , Tian Yubo , Zhao Yi
Published: September 2019

In order to reduce the time of designing microstrip antenna, this paper proposes a self-renewing fitness estimation of particle swarm optimization algorithm (SFEPSO) to improve the design efficiency. Firstly, a fitness predictive model of the particles is constructed according to the evolution formula of particle swarm optimization (PSO). From the third generation of the algorithm, the fitness of particles is given by the prediction model instead of the full-wave electromagnetic simulation. Aiming to keep the right direction of evolution, the prediction model will be proofed every N generation during the optimization process. If the prediction model accuracy is lower than the threshold, it will be updated and then continue iterating until the particles satisfy the demands. Compared with the traditional optimization method, this method greatly reduces the evaluation time and improves the design efficiency. The method is validated by the optimized design of E-type dual-frequency microstrip antenna and WLAN/WiMAX multiband antenna. The optimized results show that the purpose of rapid optimization can be achieved while ensuring the design accuracy.
Kinematic and Dynamic Characteristics of the Free-Floating Space Manipulator with Free-Swinging Joint Failure
Authors: Jia Qingxuan , Yuan Bonan , Chen Gang , Fu Yingzhuo
Published: September 2019

For the free-floating space manipulator with free-swinging joint failure, motions among its active joints, passive joints, free-floating base, and end-effector are coupled. It is significant to make clear all motion coupling relationships, which are defined as “kinematic coupling relationships” and “dynamic coupling relationships,” inside the system. With the help of conservation of system momentum, the kinematic model is established, and velocity mapping relation between active joints and passive joints, velocity mapping relation between active joints and base, velocity mapping relation between active joints and end-effector. We establish the dynamic model based on the Lagrange equation, and the system inertia matrix is partitioned according to the distribution of active joints, passive joints, and the base. Then, kinematic and dynamic coupling relationships are explicitly derived, and coupling indexes are defined to depict coupling degree. Motions of a space manipulator with free-swinging joint failure simultaneously satisfy the first-order nonholonomic constraint (kinematic coupling relationships) and the second-order nonholonomic constraint (dynamic coupling relationships), and the manipulator can perform tasks through motion planning and control. Finally, simulation experiments are carried out to verify the existence and correctness of the first-order and second-order nonholonomic constraints and display task execution effects of the space manipulator. This research analyzes the kinematic and dynamic characteristics of the free-floating space manipulator with free-swinging joint failure for the first time. It is the theoretical basis of free-swinging joint failure treatment for a space manipulator.
Visual Inspection of the Aircraft Surface Using a Teleoperated Reconfigurable Climbing Robot and Enhanced Deep Learning Technique
Authors: Ramalingam Balakrishnan , Manuel Vega-Heredia , Elara Mohan Rajesh , Vengadesh Ayyalusami , Lakshmanan Anirudh Krishna , Ilyas Muhammad , James Tan Jun Yuan
Published: September 2019

Aircraft surface inspection includes detecting surface defects caused by corrosion and cracks and stains from the oil spill, grease, dirt sediments, etc. In the conventional aircraft surface inspection process, human visual inspection is performed which is time-consuming and inefficient whereas robots with onboard vision systems can inspect the aircraft skin safely, quickly, and accurately. This work proposes an aircraft surface defect and stain detection model using a reconfigurable climbing robot and an enhanced deep learning algorithm. A reconfigurable, teleoperated robot, named as “Kiropter,” is designed to capture the aircraft surface images with an onboard RGB camera. An enhanced SSD MobileNet framework is proposed for stain and defect detection from these images. A Self-filtering-based periodic pattern detection filter has been included in the SSD MobileNet deep learning framework to achieve the enhanced detection of the stains and defects on the aircraft skin images. The model has been tested with real aircraft surface images acquired from a Boeing 737 and a compact aircraft’s surface using the teleoperated robot. The experimental results prove that the enhanced SSD MobileNet framework achieves improved detection accuracy of aircraft surface defects and stains as compared to the conventional models.
Optimal Task Partition with Delay Requirement in Mobile Crowdsourcing
Authors: Zhai Linbo , Wang Hua , Li Xiaole
Published: September 2019

Mobile crowdsourcing takes advantage of mobile devices such as smart phones and tablets to process data for a lot of applications (e.g., geotagging for mobile touring guiding monitoring and spectrum sensing). In this paper, we propose a mobile crowdsourcing paradigm to make a task requester exploit encountered mobile workers for high-quality results. Since a task may be too complex for a single worker, it is necessary for a task requester to divide a complex task into several parts so that a mobile worker can finish a part of the task easily. We describe the task crowdsourcing process and propose the worker arrival model and task model. Furthermore, the probability that all parts of the complicated task are executed by mobile workers is introduced to evaluate the result of task crowdsourcing. Based on these models, considering computing capacity and rewards for mobile workers, we formulate a task partition problem to maximize the introduced probability which is used to evaluate the result of task crowdsourcing. Then, using a Markov chain, a task partition policy is designed for the task requester to realize high-quality mobile crowdsourcing. With this task partition policy, the task requester is able to divide the complicated task into precise number of parts based on mobile workers’ arrival, and the probability that the total parts are executed by mobile workers is maximized. Also, the invalid number of task assignment attempts is analyzed accurately, which is helpful to evaluate the resource consumption of requesters due to probing potential workers. Simulations show that our task partition policy improves the results of task crowdsourcing.
Salidroside Delays Cellular Senescence by Stimulating Mitochondrial Biogenesis Partly through a miR-22/SIRT-1 Pathway
Authors: Mao Gen-Xiang , Xu Xiao-Gang , Wang San-Ying , Li Hui-Fen , Zhang Jing , Zhang Zhong-Shan , Su Hui-Li , Chen Sha-Sha , Xing Wen-Min , Wang Ya-Zhen , Dai Ji-Huan , Wang Guo-Fu , Leng Sean X. , Yan Jing
Published: September 2019

Calorie restriction (CR) is a nongenetic intervention with a robust effect on delaying aging in mammals and other organisms. A mild stimulation on mitochondrial biogenesis induced by CR seems to be an important action mode for its benefits. Here, we reported that a component isolated from Rhodiola rosea L., salidroside, delays replicative senescence in human fibroblasts, which is related to its stimulation on mitochondrial biogenesis by activating SIRT1 partly resulted from inhibition on miR-22. Salidroside increased the mitochondrial mass that accompanied an increment of the key regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis including PGC-1α, NRF-1, and TFAM and reversed the mitochondrial dysfunction in presenescent 50PD cells, showing a comparable effect to that of resveratrol. SIRT1 is involved in the inducement of mitochondrial biogenesis by salidroside. The declined expression of SIRT1 in 50PD cells compared with the young 30PD cells was prevented upon salidroside treatment. In addition, pretreatment of EX-527, a selective SIRT1 inhibitor, could block the increased mitochondrial mass and decreased ROS production induced by salidroside in 50PD cells, resulting in an accelerated cellular senescence. We further found that salidroside reversed the elevated miR-22 expression in presenescent cells according to a miRNA array analysis and a subsequent qPCR validation. Enforced miR-22 expression by using a Pre-miR-22 lentiviral construct induced the young fibroblasts (30PD) into a senescence state, accompanied with increased senescence-related molecules including p53, p21, p16, and decreased SIRT1 expression, a known target of miR-22. However, salidroside could partly impede the senescence progression induced by lenti-Pre-miR-22. Taken together, our data suggest that salidroside delays replicative senescence by stimulating mitochondrial biogenesis partly through a miR22/SIRT1 pathway, which enriches our current knowledge of a salidroside-mediated postpone senility effect and provides a new perspective on the antidecrepitude function of this naturally occurring compound in animals and humans.
Transgenerational Obesity and Alteration of ARHGEF11 in the Rat Liver Induced by Intrauterine Hyperglycemia
Authors: Zhang Wanyi , Su Rina , Feng Hui , Lin Li , Wang Chen , Yang Huixia
Published: September 2019

It is understood that intrauterine hyperglycemia increases the risk of obesity and diabetes in offspring of consecutive generations but its mechanisms remain obscure. This study is aimed at establishing an intrauterine hyperglycemia rat model to investigate the growth and glycolipid metabolic characteristics in transgenerational offspring and discuss the effects of Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor 11 (ARHGEF11) and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in offspring development. The severe intrauterine hyperglycemia rat model was caused by STZ injection before mating, while offspring development and glycolipid metabolism were observed for the following two generations. The expression of ARHGEF11, ROCK1, PI3K, and AKT was tested in the liver and muscle tissue of F2 offspring. The results showed severe growth restriction in F1 offspring and obesity, fatty liver, and insulin resistance in female F2 offspring, especially the offspring of female intrauterine hyperglycemia-exposed parents (F2G♀C♂) and both (F2G♀G♂). The expression of ARHGEF11 and ROCK1 was significantly elevated; PI3K and phosphorylation of AKT were significantly decreased in liver tissues of F2G♀C♂ and F2G♀G♂. Our study revealed that intrauterine hyperglycemia could cause obesity and abnormal glycolipid metabolism in female transgenerational offspring; the programming effect of the intrauterine environment could cause a more obvious phenotype in the maternal line. Further exploration suggested that increased expression of ARHGEF11 and ROCK1 and the decreased expression of PI3K and phosphorylation of AKT in the liver could be responsible for the abnormal development in F2 offspring.
TfR mAb-Cross-Linked Rituximab/MTX-PEG-PLL-PLGA Drug-Loaded Nanoparticles Enhance Anticancer Action in B Lymphocytes
Authors: Liu Ran , Zhao Gang , Wang Shujun , Gu Yan , Han Qi , Chen Baoan
Published: September 2019

Nanoparticles could enhance the drug targeted to the cancer cell by the enrichment of the drug levels, which leads to the improvement of the codelivery of both drugs for an antitumor effect. In the current study, we reported an efficient, local drug-loaded delivery strategy with a nanoparticle-loaded system. After the synthesis of Rituximab/MTX-PEG-PLL-PLGA, the transferrin receptor monoantibody (TfR mAb) was subsequently cross-linked to the nanoparticles. Compared to the traditional drug, the nanoparticle-loaded system can precisely and efficiently transport the Rituximab and Methotrexate (MTX) drug into SU-DHL-4 cells, a typical kind of B lymphocytes, which can significantly increase the cell apoptosis in the SU-DHL-4 cells. Thus, the multifunctional drug-loaded nanoparticles displayed the persistent stability and precise targeting properties, which enhanced the efficiency of anticancer efficiency in B lymphocytes.
Effect of Soil Solution pH during the Tetracycline Intercalation on the Structural Properties of a Dioctahedral Smectite: Microstructural Analysis
Authors: Oueslati Walid
Published: September 2019

The aim of this work is to quantitatively characterize the structural response to a chemical disruption of saturated montmorillonite crystallites by organic molecules (tetracycline (TC)), derived from pharmaceutical waste. The chemical disturbance is performed by varying the surrounding soil solution pH. To show the effect of this chemical perturbation on the interlamellar space (IS) configuration and the hydration properties, an “in situ” XRD analysis, based on the modeling of the 00l reflections, is carried out. The “in situ” XRD analysis is performed by varying the relative humidity conditions (%RH). FTIR SEM and BET- (Brunauer-Emmett-Teller-) BJH (Barrett-Joyner-Halenda) analyses are used as complementary techniques to confirm the structural changes accompanying the intercalation process. Results showed a dependence between solution acid character and the TC adsorption mechanism. From pH values close to 7, the deprotonation of the TC molecule within IS is accelerated by an increasing %RH rate. IR spectroscopy shows that the structure is preserved versus pH value and only a shift of the water deformation bands ascribed to interlamellar water molecule abundance and TC conformation is observed. The surface morphology studied by SEM shows the increase in the surface porosity by increasing the pH value. BET-specific surface area and BJH pore size distribution (PSD) analyses confirm the SEM observations.
Quantitative Evaluation of Ground Movements Caused by Grouting during Shield Tunnelling in Clay
Authors: Wang Zhi-Feng , Cheng Wen-Chieh , Wang Ya-Qiong
Published: September 2019

Grouting has been deemed as one of the most effective measures for mitigation of ground movements during tunnel construction in soft soil. Notwithstanding that, a reliable measure to quantitatively evaluate the grouting‐induced ground movements during shield tunnelling in soft soil has not yet been developed. This paper presents a simple method capable of quantitatively estimating the ground movements associated with grouting for tunnel‐boring operations where the grouting parameters and soil properties are taken into consideration. The grouting process is simplified as the expansion of a cylindrical cavity with a uniform radial stress applied at soil‐grout interface in a half plane, and the analytical solution proposed by Verruijt is introduced for determining the ground movements by the expansion of the cylindrical cavity. The proposed method is verified with a case history undertaken in London Clay. The results obtained suggest that this procedure would be helpful in managing the grouting parameters adopted in upcoming soft ground tunnelling project and mitigating the environmental impacts on nearby properties.
The Role of Innate Leukocytes during Influenza Virus Infection
Authors: Lamichhane Prem P. , Samarasinghe Amali E.
Published: September 2019

Influenza virus infection is a serious threat to humans and animals, with the potential to cause severe pneumonia and death. Annual vaccination strategies are a mainstay to prevent complications related to influenza. However, protection from the emerging subtypes of influenza A viruses (IAV) even in vaccinated individuals is challenging. Innate immune cells are the first cells to respond to IAV infection in the respiratory tract. Virus replication-induced production of cytokines from airway epithelium recruits innate immune cells to the site of infection. These leukocytes, namely, neutrophils, monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, eosinophils, natural killer cells, innate lymphoid cells, andγδT cells, become activated in response to IAV, to contain the virus and protect the airway epithelium while triggering the adaptive arm of the immune system. This review addresses different anti-influenza virus schemes of innate immune cells and how these cells fine-tune the balance between immunoprotection and immunopathology during IAV infection. Detailed understanding on how these innate responders execute anti-influenza activity will help to identify novel therapeutic targets to halt IAV replication and associated immunopathology.
Detection of Genes Related to Resistance to Silver Nanoparticles in Bacteria from Secondary Endodontic Infections
Authors: Salas-Orozco Marco Felipe , Martínez Nereyda Niño , Martínez-Castañón Gabriel-Alejandro , Méndez Fernando Torres , Patiño-Marín Nuria , Ruiz Facundo
Published: September 2019

Introduction. Silver nanoparticles are used in endodontics due to their antimicrobial activity, although it is considered that bacteria are unable to develop resistance to silver nanoparticles. Silver resistance genes have been related to resistance to nanoparticles and antibiotics. The presence of these resistance genes has not been studied in endodontic bacteria. The objective of this study is to report the prevalence of silver resistance genes in endodontic bacteria. Methods. The selected teeth were isolated using a rubber dam and any restoration, post, or caries was eliminated. The operative field was disinfected, and the root-filling material was removed. The samples were obtained using three sterile paper points to absorb the fluid of the root canal. The DNA from the samples and the control organism was extracted, and the detection of the silCBA resistance genes was carried out by PCR. Results. The results of this study show a high prevalence (73.3%) of silCBA silver resistance genes. The Spearman rank correlation coefficient was utilized to identify correlations between the presence of genes and clinical variables. Conclusions. This study reports a high frequency of silver resistance genes related to nanoparticle resistant from bacteria.
Adenine Inhibits the Growth of Colon Cancer Cells via AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Mediated Autophagy
Authors: Lai Hsin-Wu , Wei James Cheng-Chung , Hung Hung-Chang , Lin Chun-Che
Published: September 2019

Background. Adenine is involved in a variety of cell biological processes and has been explored for pharmacological uses. Its therapeutic use for managing cancer is of great interest. In the present study, we investigated the anticancer effects of adenine and the underlying mechanism in colon cancer cells. Methods. Cell viability was measured using the MTT assay. Levels of phosphorylation and protein expression were determined using western blotting. qPCR was carried out to determine the changes in mRNA expression of genes of interest. Results. Adenine significantly inhibited the viability of colon cancer cells, HT29 and Caco-2 cells, in a dose-dependent manner. Adenine induced significant apoptosis in HT29 cells, whereas Caco-2 cells exhibited less apoptotic responses. The data showed that adenine activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling contributing to autophagic cell death through mTOR in both colon cancer cell lines. Conclusions. Our findings suggest that adenine inhibits the growth of colon cancer cells. Anticancer activity of adenine in colon cancer cells is attributable to the activation of apoptotic signaling and in turn the AMPK/mTOR pathway. Adenine represents a natural compound with anticancer potency.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Alleviate DHEA-Induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) by Inhibiting Inflammation in Mice
Authors: Xie Qi , Xiong XingLiang , Xiao Na , He Ke , Chen Maosheng , Peng Jing , Su Xian , Mei Hua , Dai Yanni , Wei Dan , Lin Ge , Cheng Lamei
Published: September 2019

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility in women of reproductive age. Chronic inflammation is considered to be the cause of ovarian dysfunction. Increasing evidence in animal studies and in preliminary clinical trials has demonstrated that MSCs possess immunomodulatory effects via their interaction with immune cells. However, their contribution to PCOS remains unclear. In this study, we showed that the administration of hUC-MSCs could efficiently improve the pathological changes of PCOS mice induced by dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), including ovarian histopathology and function. Moreover, we found that the administration of MSCs significantly downregulated the expression of proinflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IFN-γ) and fibrosis-related genes (CTGF) in ovarian and uterus tissues and affected the systemic inflammatory response. The percentage of peripheral neutrophils, M1 macrophages, and B cells was significantly reduced, while M2 macrophages and regulatory T cells (Tregs) were increased in hUC-MSC-treated mice. In the spleen, the percentage of neutrophils, M1 macrophages, IFN-γ+CD19+B cell, IFN-γ+CD4+T cells (Th1), and IL-17+CD4+T cells (Th17) was significantly decreased in hUC-MSC-treated mice. These results suggested that hUC-MSC treatment could alleviate ovarian dysfunction by inhibiting ovarian local and systemic inflammatory responses.
Drug Sensitivity Prediction Models Reveal a Link between DNA Repair Defects and Poor Prognosis in HNSCC
Authors: Essers Paul B.M. , van der Heijden Martijn , Verhagen Caroline V.M. , Ploeg Emily M. , de Roest Reinout H. , Leemans C. René , Brakenhoff Ruud H. , van den Brekel Michiel W.M. , Bartelink Harry , Verheij Marcel , Vens Conchita
Published: September 2019

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is characterized by the frequent manifestation of DNA crosslink repair defects. We established novel expression-based DNA repair defect markers to determine the clinical impact of such repair defects. Using hypersensitivity to the DNA crosslinking agents, mitomycin C and olaparib, as proxies for functional DNA repair defects in a panel of 25 HNSCC cell lines, we applied machine learning to define gene expression models that predict repair defects. The expression profiles established predicted hypersensitivity to DNA-damaging agents and were associated with mutations in crosslink repair genes, as well as downregulation of DNA damage response and repair genes, in two independent datasets. The prognostic value of the repair defect prediction profiles was assessed in two retrospective cohorts with a total of 180 patients with advanced HPV-negative HNSCC, who were treated with cisplatin-based chemoradiotherapy. DNA repair defects, as predicted by the profiles, were associated with poor outcome in both patient cohorts. The poor prognosis association was particularly strong in normoxic tumor samples and was linked to an increased risk of distant metastasis. In vitro, only crosslink repair–defective HNSCC cell lines are highly migratory and invasive. This phenotype could also be induced in cells by inhibiting rad51 in repair competent and reduced by DNA-PK inhibition. In conclusion, DNA crosslink repair prediction expression profiles reveal a poor prognosis association in HNSCC.

Significance:

This study uses innovative machine learning-based approaches to derive models that predict the effect of DNA repair defects on treatment outcome in HNSCC.