bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hepatitis C infection among men who have sex with men living with HIV in New York City, 2000–2015
Authors: Gabai Claudia Michelle , Moore Miranda S , Penrose Katherine , Braunstein Sarah , Bocour Angelica , Neaigus Alan , Winters Ann
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To calculate the rate of hepatitis C virus (HCV) among HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM) with no reported history of injection drug use (IDU), and to assess whether disparities exist in HIV/HCV coinfection by race/ethnicity and neighbourhood poverty level within this population in New York City.

Methods

HIV-positive men who reported sex with men and did not report IDU at the time of HIV diagnosis, diagnosed through 2015 and alive as of 2000, were matched to people with HCV first reported to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene between 2000 and 2015. Those with HCV reported before or within 90 days of HIV infection were excluded. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards model was fit to compare the association between HCV diagnosis, race/ethnicity and neighbourhood poverty level.

Results

From 2000 to 2015, 54 488 non-IDU MSM were diagnosed with HIV, of whom 2762 (5.1%) were diagnosed with HCV after HIV diagnosis, yielding an overall age-adjusted HCV diagnosis rate of 512 per 100 000 person-years. HIV/HCV coinfection was significantly higher among non-Latino blacks (adjusted HR (aHR)=1.24, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.40) compared with non-Latino whites and among persons living in high-poverty neighbourhoods compared with those in low-poverty neighbourhoods (aHR=1.17, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.35) after stratification by year of HIV diagnosis.

Conclusion

Disparities in HIV/HCV coinfection among HIV-positive MSM were observed by race/ethnicity and neighbourhood poverty level. Routine HCV screening is recommended for people infected with HIV. People coinfected with HIV and HCV should be linked to HCV care, treated and cured to reduce morbidity and mortality, and to avoid ongoing HCV transmission.
Forensic examination of a decapitated rabbit: interdisciplinary investigations on perpetrator’s traces
Authors: Meier Simone Martina , Dennler Matthias , Martinez Rosa Maria , Albini Sarah
Published: December 2019

A pet rabbit was found dead outside its enclosure; the head was missing. The investigation of cruelty to animals was commissioned, as decapitation might result from human mutilation, for example, due to occult rituals or neighbourhood disputes. A first external examination showed circular disruption rostral of the pectoral girdle with lack of the head and palpable bone fragments of both forelimbs. CT scan revealed extensive, irregular trauma to soft tissues and skeleton. The decapitation left a cut‐like but irregular, partially wave‐like wound margin with multiple small triangular, divergent defects more closely examined by postmortem examination. Swabs from the margin of the wound and tissue samples were collected for forensic genetic analysis and histology. Considering these interdisciplinary investigation results combined with experts’ knowledge, a predator attack was highly likely. Further evidence on geographical distribution and physiological behaviour of putative predator species led to consensus on the identity of the most likely perpetrator: a red fox.
Circ_KATNAL1 regulates prostate cancer cell growth and invasiveness through the miR-145-3p/WISP1 pathway
Authors: Zheng Yu , Chen Chao-jiang , Lin Zhuo-yuan , Li Jian-xin , Liu Jie , Lin Fu-jun , Zhou Xing
Published: December 2019

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second leading cause of death in men, and current studies have shown that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in its occurrence and development. Detection of circRNAs in PCa cells showed that circ_KATNAL1 is down-regulated, mainly located in the cytoplasm, and contains multiple binding sites of miR-145-3p, which is an anticancer miRNA. RNA immunoprecipitation with anti-AGO2 antibody, RNA pull-down assays with biotin-labeled circ_KATNAL1 probe or an miR-145-3p mimic, and dual luciferase reporter gene assays confirmed that circ_KATNAL1 binds directly to miR-145-3p in cells, and that WISP1, which is highly expressed in many types of tumors, is an important target gene of miR-145-3p. Circ_KATNAL1 and miR-145-3p promote each other’s expression, and down-regulate the expression of the target gene WISP1. Both circ_KATNAL1 and miR-145-3p inhibit cell proliferation, invasiveness, and migration, down-regulate the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9, promote cell apoptosis and the activation of caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9, and PARP, whereas WISP1 has the opposite effect, and the above-mentioned functions of circ_KATNAL1 were achieved through the miR-145-3p/WISP1 pathway. Therefore, circ_KATNAL1 plays an anticancer role in PCa cells through the miR-145-3p/WISP1 pathway, which could be an important target for the diagnosis and treatment of PCa.
Simplest phonons and pseudo-phonons in field theory
Authors: Musso Daniele
Published: December 2019

We study the emergence of Nambu–Goldstone modes due to broken translation symmetry in field theory. Purely spontaneous breaking yields a massless phonon which develops a mass upon introducing a perturbative explicit breaking. The pseudo-phonon mass agrees with Gell Mann-Oakes-Renner relations. We analyze the simplest possible theories featuring gradient Mexican hats and describing space-dependent order parameters. We comment on homogeneous translation breaking and the connections with holographic Q-lattices.
Erratum to: Geant4-based electromagnetic background model for the CRESST dark matter experiment
Authors: Abdelhameed A. H. , Angloher G. , Bauer P. , Bento A. , Bertoldo E. , Breier R. , Bucci C. , Canonica L. , D’Addabbo A. , Lorenzo S. Di , Erb A. , Feilitzsch F. v. , Iachellini N. Ferreiro , Fichtinger S. , Fuss A. , Gorla P. , Hauff D. , Jes̆kovský M. , Jochum J. , Kaizer J. , Kinast A. , Kluck H. , Kraus H. , Langenkämper A. , Mancuso M. , Mokina V. , Mondragón E. , Olmi M. , Ortmann T. , Pagliarone C. , Palus̆ová V. , Pattavina L. , Petricca F. , Potzel W. , Povinec P. , Pröbst F. , Reindl F. , Rothe J. , Schäffner K. , Schieck J. , Schipperges V. , Schmiedmayer D. , Schönert S. , Schwertner C. , Stahlberg M. , Stodolsky L. , Strandhagen C. , Strauss R. , Türkoğlu C. , Usherov I. , Willers M. , Zema V. , Zeman J.
Published: December 2019

The original version of this article unfortunately contains mistakes.
Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Electroacupuncture in Migraine Treatment: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Xinyi , Dai Qianqian , Shi Zhaofeng , Chen Heqing , Hu Yeyin , Wang Xiaoli , Zhang Xiatian , Tian Guihua
Published: December 2019

Considering the heavy burden of migraine, it is essential to update insufficient and/or outdated clinical evidence supporting electroacupuncture (EA) in migraine therapy. In this study, a literature search of seven medical databases was performed. After data extraction and quality evaluation, 13 randomized controlled trials, including 1559 patients, were assessed in this analysis. Results demonstrated that EA was superior to control treatment (Western medicine, sham-EA, blank control, acupuncture, and acupoint catgut embedding) according to the visual analog scale (VAS) score, frequency of headache attack (Western medicine, sham-EA, blank control), self-rating anxiety scale (SAS [blank control]), self-rating depression score (SDS [Western medicine and blank control]), and clinical efficiency (Western medicine and sham-EA) after treatment ([Formula: see text]). Results of network meta-analysis (for VAS, SAS, and SDS) demonstrated statistically significant differences in VAS scores for EA compared with sham-EA, acupuncture with sham-EA, acupoint catgut embedding with sham-EA, and acupoint catgut embedding with blank control. Rank probability analysis of VAS, SAS, and SDS scores all demonstrated that EA ranked first. Most studies were symmetrically distributed on both sides of the midline in funnel plots for VAS, SAS, and SDS, which indicated a low likelihood of small sample effects. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the stability of the studies included in this research. EA is one of several effective treatments for migraine pain symptoms, and, to some extent, anxiety and depression. Nevertheless, multi-center studies with large sample sizes and/or well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) will be needed in the future.
Aged Citrus Peel (Chenpi) Prevents Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity by Epigenetically Regulating Nrf2 Pathway
Authors: Lin Zi-Han , Chan Yen-Fan , Pan Min-Hsiung , Tung Yen-Chen , Su Zheng-Yuan
Published: December 2019

Excessive consumption of analgesic drug acetaminophen (APAP) can cause severe oxidative stress-mediated liver injury. Here, we investigated the protective effect and mechanism of aged citrus peel (Chenpi, CP), a Chinese herb usually used in foods in Asia, against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity. CP water (CP-WE), ethanolic (CP-EE), and water extraction residue ethanolic (CP-WREE) extracts were prepared. We found that CP-WREE contained higher content of bioactive flavonoids, including narirutin, nobiletin, and tangeretin, and more effectively enhanced the Nrf2 pathway in ARE-luciferase reporter gene transfected human HepG2-C8 cells. In mouse AML-12 hepatocytes, CP-WREE minimized APAP-induced damage and lipid peroxidation and increased mRNA and protein expressions of Nrf2 and its downstream defense enzymes (HO-1, NQO1, and UGT1A). CP-WREE also downregulated HDACs and DNMTs, upregulated KDMs, and increased the unmethylated Nrf2 promoter level. Additionally, CP-WREE blocked in vitro DNA methyltransferase activity. Taken together, CP-WREE might attenuate oxidative stress-induced hepatotoxicity through epigenetically regulating Nrf2-mediated cellular defense system.
Index and nullity of proper biharmonic maps in spheres
Authors: Montaldo S. , Oniciuc C. , Ratto A.
Published: December 2019

In recent years, the study of the bienergy functional has attracted the attention of a large community of researchers, but there are not many examples where the second variation of this functional has been thoroughly studied. We shall focus on this problem and, in particular, we shall compute the exact index and nullity of some known examples of proper biharmonic maps. Moreover, we shall analyze a case where the domain is not compact. More precisely, we shall prove that a large family of proper biharmonic maps [Formula: see text] is strictly stable with respect to compactly supported variations. In general, the computations involved in this type of problems are very long. For this reason, we shall also define and apply to specific examples a suitable notion of index and nullity with respect to equivariant variations.
Bile acids inhibit cholinergic constriction in proximal and peripheral airways from humans and rodents
Authors: Urso Andreacarola , D’Ovidio Frank , Xu Dingbang , Emala Charles W. , Bunnett Nigel W. , Perez-Zoghbi Jose F.
Published: December 2019

Duodenogastroesophageal reflux (DGER) is associated with chronic lung disease. Bile acids (BAs) are established markers of DGER aspiration and are important risk factors for reduced post-transplant lung allograft survival by disrupting the organ-specific innate immunity, facilitating airway infection and allograft failure. However, it is unknown whether BAs also affect airway reactivity. We investigated the acute effects of 13 BAs detected in post-lung-transplant surveillance bronchial washings (BW) on airway contraction. We exposed precision-cut slices from human and mouse lungs to BAs and monitored dynamic changes in the cross-sectional luminal area of peripheral airways using video phase-contrast microscopy. We also used guinea pig tracheal rings in organ baths to study BA effects in proximal airway contraction induced by electrical field stimulation. We found that most secondary BAs at low micromolar concentrations strongly and reversibly relaxed smooth muscle and inhibited peripheral airway constriction induced by acetylcholine but not by noncholinergic bronchoconstrictors. Similarly, secondary BAs strongly inhibited cholinergic constrictions in tracheal rings. In contrast, TC-G 1005, a specific agonist of the BA receptor Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5), did not cause airway relaxation, and Tgr5 deletion in knockout mice did not affect BA-induced relaxation, suggesting that this receptor is not involved. BAs inhibited acetylcholine-induced inositol phosphate synthesis in human airway smooth muscle cells overexpressing the muscarinic M3 receptor. Our results demonstrate that select BAs found in BW of patients with lung transplantation can affect airway reactivity by inhibiting the cholinergic contractile responses of the proximal and peripheral airways, possibly by acting as antagonists of M3 muscarinic receptors.
Primate somatosensory cortical neurons are entrained to both spontaneous and peripherally evoked spindle oscillations
Authors: Sritharan Srihari Y. , Contreras-Hernández Enrique , Richardson Andrew G. , Lucas Timothy H.
Published: December 2019

Recurrent thalamocortical circuits produce a number of rhythms critical to brain function. In slow-wave sleep, spindles (7–16 Hz) are a prominent spontaneous oscillation generated by thalamic circuits and triggered by cortical slow waves. In wakefulness and under anesthesia, brief peripheral sensory stimuli can evoke 10-Hz reverberations due potentially to similar thalamic mechanisms. Functionally, sleep spindles and peripherally evoked spindles may play a role in memory consolidation and perception, respectively. Yet, rarely have the circuits involved in these two rhythms been compared in the same animals and never in primates. Here, we investigated the entrainment of primary somatosensory cortex (S1) neurons to both rhythms in ketamine-sedated macaques. First, we compared spontaneous spindles in sedation and natural sleep to validate the model. Then, we quantified entrainment with spike-field coherence and phase-locking statistics. We found that S1 neurons entrained to spontaneous sleep spindles were also entrained to the evoked spindles, although entrainment strength and phase systematically differed. Our results indicate that the spindle oscillations triggered by top-down spontaneous cortical activity and bottom-up peripheral input share a common cortical substrate.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Brief sensory stimuli evoke 10-Hz oscillations in thalamocortical neuronal activity and in perceptual thresholds. The mechanisms underlying this evoked rhythm are not well understood but are thought to be similar to those generating sleep spindles. We directly compared the entrainment of cortical neurons to both spontaneous spindles and peripherally evoked oscillations in sedated monkeys. We found that the entrainment strengths to each rhythm were positively correlated, although with differing entrainment phases, implying involvement of similar networks.
GABA bouton subpopulations in the human dentate gyrus are differentially altered in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Alhourani Ahmad , Fish Kenneth N. , Wozny Thomas A. , Sudhakar Vivek , Hamilton Ronald L. , Richardson R. Mark
Published: December 2019

Medically intractable temporal lobe epilepsy is a devastating disease, for which surgical removal of the seizure onset zone is the only known cure. Multiple studies have found evidence of abnormal dentate gyrus network circuitry in human mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE). Principal neurons within the dentate gyrus gate entorhinal input into the hippocampus, providing a critical step in information processing. Crucial to that role are GABA-expressing neurons, particularly parvalbumin (PV)-expressing basket cells (PVBCs) and chandelier cells (PVChCs), which provide strong, temporally coordinated inhibitory signals. Alterations in PVBC and PVChC boutons have been described in epilepsy, but the value of these studies has been limited due to methodological hurdles associated with studying human tissue. We developed a multilabel immunofluorescence confocal microscopy and a custom segmentation algorithm to quantitatively assess PVBC and PVChC bouton densities and to infer relative synaptic protein content in the human dentate gyrus. Using en bloc specimens from MTLE subjects with and without hippocampal sclerosis, paired with nonepileptic controls, we demonstrate the utility of this approach for detecting cell-type specific synaptic alterations. Specifically, we found increased density of PVBC boutons, while PVChC boutons decreased significantly in the dentate granule cell layer of subjects with hippocampal sclerosis compared with matched controls. In contrast, bouton densities for either PV-positive cell type did not differ between epileptic subjects without sclerosis and matched controls. These results may explain conflicting findings from previous studies that have reported both preserved and decreased PV bouton densities and establish a new standard for quantitative assessment of interneuron boutons in epilepsy.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY A state-of-the-art, multilabel immunofluorescence confocal microscopy and custom segmentation algorithm technique, developed previously for studying synapses in the human prefrontal cortex, was modified to study the hippocampal dentate gyrus in specimens surgically removed from patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. The authors discovered that chandelier and basket cell boutons in the human dentate gyrus are differentially altered in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy.
Activation of CRF2 receptor increases gastric vagal afferent mechanosensitivity
Authors: Li Hui , Page Amanda J.
Published: December 2019

Gastric vagal afferent (GVA) sensing of food-related mechanical stimuli is a crucial mechanism in the control of feeding behavior and gastric function. Stress is an important factor contributing to eating disorders and gastric diseases. Chronic stress has been shown to increase the mechanosensitivity of GVAs in mice and to reduce food intake and body weight. Whether the mechanosensitivity of GVAs is modulated by stress hormones is not known. This study aimed to determine the effect of stress hormones on GVA mechanosensitivity. The expression of stress hormone receptors in GVA cell bodies was determined in 8-wk-old male C57BL/6 mice using quantitative RT-PCR combined with laser capture microdissection. The mechanosensitivity of GVAs was determined in the absence and presence of stress hormones using an in vitro single-fiber recording preparation. NR3C1 and CRHR2 (mRNA isoforms of glucocorticoid receptor and CRF2 receptor, respectively) were expressed in GVA neurons. The glucocorticoid receptor agonist corticosterone had no effect on the mechanosensitivity of either tension or mucosal GVAs. Activation of CRF2 receptor by its specific analog, urocortin 3, significantly increased the mechanosensitivity of both tension and mucosal GVAs, an effect prevented by the CRF2 receptor antagonist astressin 2B. In conclusion, activation of CRF2 receptor increases the mechanosensitivity of GVAs. This may contribute to the stress- and CRF2 receptor-associated changes in feeding behavior and gastric function, possibly contributing to the hypersensitivity of GVAs in chronic stress conditions.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Gastric vagal afferents (GVAs) relay food-related signals to the central nervous system, where they are processed, eventually leading to modulation of food intake and gastric function. GVA signaling can be modulated by an array of hormones. Stress has been shown to induce GVA hypersensitivity. This study demonstrates that GVA neurons express subtypes of stress hormone receptors, specifically CRF2. Furthermore, activation of CRF2 receptor increases GVA mechanosensitivity, which could have implications for food intake and gastric function.
Brain Rhythms During Sleep and Memory Consolidation: Neurobiological Insights
Authors: Marshall Lisa , Cross Nathan , Binder Sonja , Dang-Vu Thien Thanh
Published: December 2019

Sleep can benefit memory consolidation. The characterization of brain regions underlying memory consolidation during sleep, as well as their temporal interplay, reflected by specific patterns of brain electric activity, is surfacing. Here, we provide an overview of recent concepts and results on the mechanisms of sleep-related memory consolidation. The latest studies strongly impacting future directions of research in this field are highlighted.
Molecular/Ionic Basis of Vagal Bronchopulmonary C-Fiber Activation by Inflammatory Mediators
Authors: Undem Bradley J. , Sun Hui
Published: December 2019

Stimulation of bronchopulmonary vagal afferent C fibers by inflammatory mediators can lead to coughing, chest tightness, and changes in breathing pattern, as well as reflex bronchoconstriction and secretions. These responses serve a defensive function in healthy lungs but likely contribute to many of the signs and symptoms of inflammatory airway diseases. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the activation of bronchopulmonary C-fiber terminals may lead to novel therapeutics that would work in an additive or synergic manner with existing anti-inflammatory strategies.
Pterostilbene Attenuates Fructose-Induced Myocardial Fibrosis by Inhibiting ROS-Driven Pitx2c/miR-15b Pathway
Authors: Kang Lin-Lin , Zhang Dong-Mei , Jiao Rui-Qing , Pan Shu-Man , Zhao Xiao-Juan , Zheng Yan-Jing , Chen Tian-Yu , Kong Ling-Dong
Published: December 2019

Excessive fructose consumption induces oxidative stress and myocardial fibrosis. Antioxidant compound pterostilbene has cardioprotective effect in experimental animals. This study is aimed at investigating how fructose drove fibrotic responses via oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes and explored the attenuation mechanisms of pterostilbene. We observed fructose-induced myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis with ROS overproduction in rats. Paired-like homeodomain 2 (Pitx2c) increase, microRNA-15b (miR-15b) low expression, and p53 phosphorylation (p-p53) upregulation, as well as activation of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/drosophila mothers against DPP homolog (Smads) signaling and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) induction, were also detected in fructose-fed rat hearts and fructose-exposed rat myocardial cell line H9c2 cells. The results from p53 siRNA or TGF-β1 siRNA transfection showed that TGF-β1-induced upregulation of CTGF expression and p-p53 activated TGF-β1/Smads signaling in fructose-exposed H9c2 cells. Of note, Pitx2c negatively modulated miR-15b expression via binding to the upstream of the miR-15b genetic loci by chromatin immunoprecipitation and transfection analysis with pEX1-Pitx2c plasmid and Pitx2c siRNA, respectively. In H9c2 cells pretreated with ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine, or transfected with miR-15b mimic and inhibitor, fructose-induced cardiac ROS overload could drive Pitx2c-mediated miR-15b low expression, then cause p-p53-activated TGF-β1/Smads signaling and CTGF induction in myocardial fibrosis. We also found that pterostilbene significantly improved myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis in fructose-fed rats and fructose-exposed H9c2 cells. Pterostilbene reduced cardiac ROS to block Pitx2c-mediated miR-15b low expression and p-p53-dependent TGF-β1/Smads signaling activation and CTGF induction in high fructose-induced myocardial fibrosis. These results firstly demonstrated that the ROS-driven Pitx2c/miR-15b pathway was required for p-p53-dependent TGF-β1/Smads signaling activation in fructose-induced myocardial fibrosis. Pterostilbene protected against high fructose-induced myocardial fibrosis through the inhibition of Pitx2c/miR-15b pathway to suppress p-p53-activated TGF-β1/Smads signaling, warranting the consideration of Pitx2c/miR-15b pathway as a therapeutic target in myocardial fibrosis.
Endothelial Protein C Receptor Could Contribute to Experimental Malaria-Associated Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: dos Santos Ortolan Luana , Sercundes Michelle Klein , Moura Gabriel Candido , de Castro Quirino Thatyane , Debone Daniela , de Sousa Costa Douglas , Murillo Oscar , Marinho Claudio Romero Farias , Epiphanio Sabrina
Published: December 2019

The severity of Plasmodium falciparum malaria is associated with parasite cytoadherence, but there is limited knowledge about the effect of parasite cytoadherence in malaria-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Our objective was to evaluate the cytoadherence of infected red blood cells (iRBCs) in a murine model of ARDS and to appraise a potential function of endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR) in ARDS pathogenesis. DBA/2 mice infected with P. berghei ANKA were classified as ARDS- or hyperparasitemia- (HP-) developing mice according to respiratory parameters and parasitemia. Lungs, blood, and bronchoalveolar lavage were collected for gene expression or protein analyses. Primary cultures of microvascular lung endothelial cells from DBA/2 mice were analyzed for iRBC interactions. Lungs from ARDS-developing mice showed evidence of iRBC accumulation along with an increase in EPCR and TNF concentrations. Furthermore, TNF increased iRBC adherence in vitro. Dexamethasone-treated infected mice showed low levels of TNF and EPCR mRNA expression and, finally, decreased vascular permeability, thus protecting mice from ARDS. In conclusion, we identified that increased iRBC cytoadherence in the lungs underlies malaria-associated ARDS in DBA/2-infected mice and that inflammation increased cytoadherence capacity, suggesting a participation of EPCR and a conceivable target for drug development.
Study on Simulation of Stamping Process and Optimization of Process Parameters of Fender
Authors: Wu Peng , Wang Youming , Wan Peng
Published: December 2019

In order to obtain the optimum technological parameters of fender forming, the finite element analysis software DYNAFORM is used to simulate the drawing process of fender in this paper. The orthogonal test is designed and completed. On the basis of the orthogonal test, Taguchi method is used to design the orthogonal inner table, and the SNR of each factor at each level is calculated. The results of Taguchi method are analyzed with variance analysis, and the adjustable influencing variables and influence factors on quality stability that affect the forming quality of the fender are obtained. Experimental optimization of the adjustable variables is carried out again to obtain the optimal combination of process parameters that affect the shaping quality of the fender. The optimal combination of process parameters is as follows: blank holder force is 120 kN, model clearance is 1.0 t (t represents sheet thickness), friction coefficient is 0.11, and radius of die is 6 mm. Finally, the experimental results show that the fender manufactured with this combination of process parameters has better performance.
Dentists’ Attitudes in Jordan towards the Shortened Dental Arch Concept: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Abu-Awwad Motasum , Amarin Rula , Khouli Farah , Shaban Sirin , AlTarawneh Sandra
Published: December 2019

Aims. To assess the awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and application of the shortened dental arch (SDA) concept by dentists in Jordan. Materials and Methods. In this cross-sectional survey, a questionnaire was disseminated to a random sample of 150 dentists working in private practices, university hospitals, or governmental institutes. The chi-square (X2) test was used to examine associations. Results. One hundred and six dentists responded (70.7% response rate). Fifty-five were females. 82.1% were aware of the SDA concept. The fewer the years of experience, the more likely the dentists were aware of the SDA concept (X2, P=0.024) and the more likely they learned about it through undergraduate education (X2, P<0.001). In a hypothetical clinical situation of a patient >50 years of age with missing molar teeth, 45.3% agreed that the molars should be replaced, while 54.7% did not agree. Improving mastication was the main reason for agreeing (81.6%), while having reduced functional benefit was the main reason for disagreeing (64.9%). The treatment modality most commonly recommended was implants fixed partial dentures (84.9%). Of those aware of SDA, 67.8% agreed it could have a useful place in treatment planning within Jordan. Cost reduction for patients was the main reason for this answer, as reported by 51% of those who agreed. 26.4% did not apply SDA for any of their patients, while 50.6% applied it for <10% of their patients. Conclusion. The majority of the dentists was aware of the SDA concept and had a positive attitude towards it; however, few of them applied it in their practice.
NANOG Attenuates Hair Follicle-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Senescence by Upregulating PBX1 and Activating AKT Signaling
Authors: Liu Feilin , Shi Jiahong , Zhang Yingyao , Lian Aobo , Han Xing , Zuo Kuiyang , Liu Mingsheng , Zheng Tong , Zou Fei , Liu Xiaomei , Jin Minghua , Mu Ying , Li Gang , Su Guanfang , Liu Jinyu
Published: December 2019

Stem cells derived from elderly donors or harvested by repeated subculture exhibit a marked decrease in proliferative capacity and multipotency, which not only compromises their therapeutic potential but also raises safety concerns for regenerative medicine. NANOG—a well-known core transcription factor—plays an important role in maintaining the self-renewal and pluripotency of stem cells. Unfortunately, the mechanism that NANOG delays mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) senescence is not well-known until now. In our study, we showed that both ectopic NANOG expression and PBX1 overexpression (i) significantly upregulated phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT) and PARP1; (ii) promoted cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and osteogenesis; (iii) reduced the number of senescence-associated-β-galactosidase- (SA-β-gal-) positive cells; and (iv) downregulated the expression of p16, p53, and p21. Western blotting and dual-luciferase activity assays showed that ectopic NANOG expression significantly upregulated PBX1 expression and increased PBX1 promoter activity. In contrast, PBX1 knockdown by RNA interference in hair follicle- (HF-) derived MSCs that were ectopically expressing NANOG resulted in the significant downregulation of p-AKT and the upregulation of p16 and p21. Moreover, blocking AKT with the PI3K/AKT inhibitor LY294002 or knocking down AKT via RNA interference significantly decreased PBX1 expression, while increasing p16 and p21 expression and the number of SA-β-gal-positive cells. In conclusion, our findings show that NANOG delays HF-MSC senescence by upregulating PBX1 and activating AKT signaling and that a feedback loop likely exists between PBX1 and AKT signaling.
Using a Participatory Approach and Legume Integration to Increase the Productivity of Early Maturing Maize in the Nigerian Sudan Savannas
Authors: Kamara Alpha Y. , Ajeigbe Hakeem A. , Ndaghu Nathalie , Kamsang Lucy , Ademulegun Temitope , Solomon Reuben
Published: December 2019

Drought, infestation of cereal crops by the parasitic weed Striga hermonthica, and poor soil fertility are the major constraints to maize production by smallholder farmers in the Sudan savannas of northern Nigeria. Four innovation platforms (IPs) were therefore established in 2008 in the Sudan savanna (SS) agroecological zone of northern Nigeria to create a stakeholder forum to address these identified food production challenges in the target areas. The IPs comprised researchers from Bayero University, Kano; Institute for Agricultural Research, Zaria; International Institute of Tropical Agriculture; state and local government extension programs in Kano and Katsina states; input and output dealers; community-based organisations; and media organisations in the two states. The current study reports on the effects of legume integration on maize performance in farmer fields and the adoption of Striga management technologies introduced in the IPs over a four-year period. The deployment of drought- Striga-tolerant and early-maturing maize varieties along with legume rotation reduced Striga infestation by 46–100% when cowpea was rotated with maize, 80–97% when groundnut was rotated with maize, and 59–94% when soybean was rotated with maize. Grain yield of maize increased by 63–88% when cowpea was rotated with maize, 69–128% when groundnut was rotated with maize, and 9–133% when soybean was rotated with maize. Participatory and detailed questionnaire-based adoption surveys showed high adoption of improved maize varieties, five years after program interventions. The maize variety 99EVDT-W-STR C0 was the most popular among all the IPs because it is early maturing, Striga-resistant, and drought-tolerant. The high maize yields and high adoption rates suggest that the IP approach was effective in disseminating maize technologies.
The Effect of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor on Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell Engraftment in Rat Fibrotic Liver upon Transplantation
Authors: Yuan Ke , Lai Chunyou , Wei Lingling , Feng Tianhang , Yang Qinyan , Zhang Tianying , Lan Tao , Yao Yutong , Xiang Guangming , Huang Xiaolun
Published: December 2019

Background. According to existing related experiments and research reports, stem cell transplantation therapy has been shown to have a positive effect on the recovery of liver fibrosis/cirrhosis, but for some reason, this therapy still cannot be widely used in clinical work. One of the reasons that cannot be ignored is the low quantity of exogenous stem cells transplanted into the liver in vivo. Thus, we investigated whether the use of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) can increase the number of stem cell transplants and improve the efficacy of stem cell transplantation therapy. Methods. Using a Sprague-Dawley rat liver fibrosis model, we transplanted into fibrosis liver allograft bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) which were labelled with chlormethylbenzamido-1,1-dioctadecyl-3,3,3′3′-tetramethylin-docarbocyamine (CM-DiI) or injected VEGF adenovirus solution through the tail vein or conducted the above two operations simultaneously. The cell surface receptor profile of BMSC was examined by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence staining. Hepatic sinusoidal vascular leakage was measured with Evan’s blue dye assay. Paraffin section staining, immunofluorescent staining, RT-qPCR (quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction), and Western blot were used to evaluate hepatic pathological changes and physiology function. Result. The in vivo study indicated that, comparing with other groups of rats, the rats with combined treatment of BMSC transplantation and VEGF injection exhibited obvious reduction in liver fibrosis. Evan’s blue dye assay suggests that after injecting with VEGF adenovirus solution, the rat’s hepatic sinusoidal permeability would be increased. We confirmed the expression of very late antigen-4 (VLA4, integrin α4β1) on rat BMSCs and the elevated expression of vascular adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in the hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells. In addition, the analysis of CM-DiI-labeled BMSCs showed that the BMSC+VEGF group exhibited better cell engraftment and that the engrafted cells were mainly distributed in the hepatic parenchyma. Furthermore, compared with the other situation, it is best to reconstitute the liver secretion and regeneration function of rats after combined application of VEGF and BMSC. Conclusion. We showed that VEGF promotes the engraftment of BMSCs in liver fibrosis, enhances liver regeneration, and improves liver function. These outcomes may be related to the increasing hepatic sinusoidal endothelium permeability and VCAM-1-increased expression.
Stable Switching Control Strategy of the Support Pressure and Velocity of Shield Machine Gripper Shoes
Authors: Liu Nannan , Peng Jishen , Song Liye , Wang Pinhe , Zhang Kun
Published: December 2019

An electro‐hydraulic servo position and pressure compound control method was investigated considering the working principle of a hydraulic stepping motor of a shield machine gripper shoe and its practical working characteristics in the supporting process. The control targets were to improve the support efficiency and reduce the disturbance of gripper shoes on the surrounding rock. In this method, a fuzzy switching controller was used to switch between electro‐hydraulic position control and electro‐hydraulic pressure control. Numerical and prototype simulation experiments were conducted on the control method. The theoretical analysis and experimental results showed that the control method could effectively convert the gripper shoes from an unsupported state to a supported state in a short amount of time, as well as realize surge‐free switching between position control and pressure control. Thus, disturbance of the gripper shoes on the surrounding rock could be reduced. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for research on control strategies of hydraulic stepping propulsion of shield machines.
Classic Chinese Acupuncture versus Different Types of Control Groups for the Treatment of Chronic Pain: Review of Randomized Controlled Trials (2000–2018)
Authors: Chen Yan-Jiao , Shimizu Bassi Gabriel , Yang Yong-Qing
Published: December 2019

Objective. To review the effectiveness of classic Chinese acupuncture in the treatment of chronic pain by comparing treatment groups with different types of control groups in accordance with the newly published guidelines for systematic reviews. Methods. We searched EMBASE, PubMed, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases from 2000 to 2018. We included randomized controlled trials that included acupuncture as the sole treatment or as an adjunctive treatment for chronic pain. The outcome was pain intensity measured by the visual analogue scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain subscale, 11-point numeric rating scale (NRS), and other tools. Two researchers conducted the study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment processes independently. Disagreements were solved by discussion and reanalysis of the data. The quality of all included studies was evaluated using the CBNG (the Cochrane Back and Neck Group) and the STRICTA (Standards for Reporting Interventions in Controlled Trials of Acupuncture) checklists. Results. Sixty-one studies were fully analyzed and ranked based on the newest STRICTA and CBNG standards. We found good evidence that receiving acupuncture is better than not receiving treatment or being placed on a waiting list and reasonable evidence that it is better than conventional or usual care. Limited evidence was found regarding placebo treatments that involve the expectation of needling (real or fake). Conclusion. Sham acupuncture may not be appropriate as a control intervention for assessing the effectiveness of acupuncture. Acupuncture effectiveness in controlling chronic pain is still limited due to the low quality of the studies published.
Full‐Scale Experimental Investigation of the Static and Dynamic Stiffness of Prestressed Concrete Girders
Authors: Zhou Yongjun , Zhao Yu , Yao Hengying , Jing Yuan
Published: December 2019

Cracking damage influences the stiffness of the girders. Many articles in the literatures have studied the development of stiffness of the scale‐down model; however, full‐scale model testing cannot be completely replaced by scale‐down testing because of material component characteristics and boundary effects. This paper deals with the effects of cracking damage on the structural static and dynamic stiffness based on three prestressed concrete (PC) girders which were removed from an old bridge. First, the equivalent flexural rigidity of cracked prestressed concrete girder was assessed using the measured load‐deflection response under cycles of loading and unloading. Then, after unloading, the frequencies were measured on the PC girders supported by the elastomeric bearings. Next, the development of frequency under different damage was studied, and finally, the dynamic stiffness of PC girders with cracks was assessed. The results indicate that the first frequency is more sensitive to the cracking of concrete compared with the second frequency and that the mode shapes are not sensitive to girder damage. The test girders cannot be simplified as an ideal simply supported beam for the purpose of identifying frequencies. In addition, the “final” (the end of the ultimate load case) equivalent flexural rigidity of the girders is 30% of the “initial” (the beginning of the first load case) equivalent flexural rigidity, compared with 50% in the scale‐down test; and the final dynamic stiffness is approximately 84% of the initial dynamic stiffness, whereas the scale‐down test is 72%.
Formation Control of Multi‐Agent Systems with Region Constraint
Authors: Yang Zhengquan , Zhang Qing , Chen Zengqiang
Published: December 2019

In this paper, the formation problem for multi‐agent systems with region constraint is studied while few researchers consider this problem. The goal is to control all multi‐agents to enter the constraint area while reaching formation. Each agent is constrained by a common convex set. A formation control law is presented based on local information of the neighborhood. It is proved that the positions of all the agents would converge to the set constraint while reaching formation. Finally, two numerical examples are presented to illustrate the validity of the theoretical results.
Degradation Analysis of Chaotic Systems and their Digital Implementation in Embedded Systems
Authors: Méndez-Ramírez Rodrigo , Arellano-Delgado Adrian , Murillo-Escobar Miguel , Cruz-Hernández César
Published: December 2019

Digital implementation of chaotic systems (CSs) has attracted increasing attention from researchers due to several applications in engineering, e.g., in areas as cryptography and autonomous mobile robots, where the properties of chaotic systems are strongly related. The CSs in the continuous version (CV) need to be discretized where chaotic degradation must be analyzed to guarantee preservation of chaos. In this paper, we present a degradation analysis of five three‐dimensional CSs and the necessary conditions to implement the discretized versions (DVs) of Lorenz, Rössler, Chen, Liu and Chen, and Méndez‐Arellano‐Cruz‐Martínez (MACM) CSs. Analytical and numerical analyses of chaos degradation are conducted by using the time series method; the maximum discrete step size and the Lyapunov Exponents (LEs) are computed by using the Euler, Heun, and fourth‐order Runge–Kutta (RK4) numerical algorithms (NAs). We conducted comparative studies of performance based on time complexity of the five proposed CSs in their DVs by using four embedded systems (ESs) based on three families of Microchip microcontrollers 8‐bit PIC16F, 16‐bit dsPIC33FJ, and 32‐bit PIC32MZ (of low‐cost electronic implementation) and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). Based on the results, the intervals at control parameters to guarantee chaos are proposed, which improves the performance characteristics of the five proposed CSs in their DVs based on digital applications.
PPARδ Interacts with the Hippo Coactivator YAP1 to Promote SOX9 Expression and Gastric Cancer Progression
Authors: Song Shumei , Wang Zhenning , Li Yuan , Ma Lang , Jin Jiankang , Scott Ailing W. , Xu Yan , Estrella Jeannelyn Santiano , Song Yongxi , Liu Bin , Johnson Randy L. , Ajani Jaffer A.
Published: December 2019

Despite established functions of PPARδ in lipid metabolism and tumorigenesis, the mechanisms underlying its role in gastric cancer are undefined. Here, we demonstrate that SOX9 was dramatically induced by stably expressing PPARδ and by its agonist GW501516 in human gastric cancer cell lines. PPARδ knockdown in patient-derived gastric cancer cells dramatically reduced SOX9 expression and transcriptional activity, with corresponding decreases in invasion and tumor sphere formation. Mechanistically, PPARδ induced SOX9 transcription through direct interaction with and activation of the Hippo coactivator YAP1. PPARδ–YAP1 interaction occurred via the C-terminal domain of YAP1, and both TEAD- and PPARE-binding sites were required for SOX9 induction. Notably, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genetic ablation of YAP1 or SOX9 abolished PPARδ-mediated oncogenic functions. Finally, expression of PPARδ, YAP1, and SOX9 were significantly correlated with each other and with poor survival in a large cohort of human gastric cancer tissues. Thus, these findings elucidate a novel mechanism by which PPARδ promotes gastric tumorigenesis through interaction with YAP1 and highlights the PPARδ/YAP1/SOX9 axis as a novel therapeutic target in human gastric cancer.

Implications:

Our discovery of a new model supports a distinct paradigm for PPARδ and a crucial oncogenic function of PPARδ in gastric cancer through convergence on YAP1/TEAD signaling. Therefore, PPARδ/YAP1/SOX9 axis could be a novel therapeutic target that can be translated into clinics.
Multimodality Imaging Approach for Combined Central Retinal Vein and Artery Occlusion: The Role of Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Díez-Sotelo Marta , Abraldes Maximino , Gómez-Ulla Francisco
Published: December 2019

Combined central retinal artery and vein occlusion is an uncommon vascular pathology that can cause severe and permanent visual impairment. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a newly available, noninvasive imaging technique that can potentially improve understanding of the structural and vascular implications and prognosis of this infrequent pathology. The present report describes the principal clinical findings in a case of combined central retinal artery and vein occlusion, as detected by the different imaging modalities available in a tertiary referral hospital. OCTA wide-field montage images identified an extensive area of nonperfusion on the macula with involvement of the entire retina at nearly 360°. We observed the most severe nonperfusion in the deep capillary plexus, while perfusion of the choriocapillaris was unaffected. Meanwhile, fluorescein angiography (FA) findings revealed a delay in perfusion rate with marked nonperfusion areas in the peripheral retina at 360°. We identified that the wide-field OCTA montage permitted visualization of a similar or wider peripheral retinal area compared with FA. Therefore, OCTA is potentially useful for assessment of the global retinal nonperfusion status at baseline and during follow-up, with the added advantage of being a noninvasive technique.
Effect of Preoperative Dutasteride on Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate
Authors: Shigemura Katsumi , Kitagawa Koichi , Chen Kuan-Chou , Sung Shian-Ying , Fujisawa Masato
Published: December 2019

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare and investigate the efficacy of using the 5α-reductase inhibitor dutasteride after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) to improve postoperative urination and surgery-related complications. Methods: This is a retrospective observational study comparing patients who received or did not receive 5α-reductase inhibitors prior to HoLEP. Of a total of 270 patients, 40 received the 5α-reductase inhibitor dutasteride. We compared the factors including age, postoperative maximal flow rate (MFR; mL/s), postoperative prostate-specific antigen (PSA) (ng/mL), preoperative MFR (mL/s), preoperative PSA (ng/mL), prostate cancer (%), operative time (min), preoperative residual urine (mL), postoperative residual urine (mL), urinary incontinence (day 1; %), urinary incontinence (1 month; %), urinary incontinence (3 months; %), urethral catheter indwelling period (days), morcellation time (min), enucleation time (min), intraoperative complications (%), postoperative complications (%), prostate volume (mL), enucleated weight (g), and hospitalization period (days). Results: Postoperative PSA (p = 0.0071), morcellation time (p = 0.0444), postoperative complications (p = 0.0350) and prostate volume (p = 0.0069), but not enucleated prostate weight (p = 0.8809), were significantly lower in the dutasteride group. Importantly, enucleation efficiency and morcellation efficiency did not show any significant difference between the dutasteride and the non-dutasteride groups. Conclusions: Use of a preoperative 5α-reductase inhibitor significantly correlated with surgery-related factors, with less morcellation time, fewer postoperative complications, and lower postoperative PSA. Surgeons performing HoLEP may wish to take these findings into account.