bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associate Submersions and Qualitative Properties of Nonlinear Circuits with Implicit Characteristics
Authors: Riaza Ricardo
Published: March 2020

We introduce in this paper an equivalence notion for submersions [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] open in [Formula: see text], which makes it possible to identify a smooth planar curve with a unique class of submersions. This idea, which extends to the nonlinear setting the construction of a dual projective space, provides a systematic way to handle global implicit descriptions of smooth planar curves. We then apply this framework to model nonlinear electrical devices as classes of equivalent functions. In this setting, linearization naturally accommodates incremental resistances (and other analogous notions) in homogeneous terms. This approach, combined with a projectively-weighted version of the matrix-tree theorem, makes it possible to formulate and address in great generality several problems in nonlinear circuit theory. In particular, we tackle unique solvability problems in resistive circuits, and discuss a general expression for the characteristic polynomial of dynamic circuits at equilibria. Previously known results, which were derived in the literature under unnecessarily restrictive working assumptions, are simply obtained here by using dehomogenization. Our results are shown to apply also to circuits with memristors. We finally present a detailed, graph-theoretic study of certain stationary bifurcations in nonlinear circuits using the formalism here introduced.
Conformal vector fields in proper non-static plane symmetric spacetimes in f(R) gravity
Authors: Hussain Fiaz , Shabbir Ghulam , Mahomed F. M. , Ramzan Muhammad
Published: March 2020

Nonstatic plane symmetric spacetimes are considered to study conformal vector fields (VFs) in the [Formula: see text] theory of gravity. Firstly, we investigate some proper nonstatic plane symmetric spacetimes by solving the Einstein field equations (EFEs) in the [Formula: see text] theory of gravity using algebraic techniques. Secondly, we find CVFs of the obtained spacetimes by means of the direct integration approach. There exist seven cases. Studying each case in detail, we find that the CVFs are of dimension three, five, six and fifteen.
Permanence and extinction of a single species model in polluted environment
Authors: Zhao Jiandong , Zhang Tonghua
Published: March 2020

Under the assumption that the growth of the population satisfies the generalized logistic equation, a new single species model in polluted environment is proposed in this work. Sufficient conditions for permanence and extinction of the species in the model are given respectively. It is shown that our model and the results are improvements of those in He and Wang [Appl. Math. Model. 31 (2007) 2227–2238].
A separator-based method for generating weakly chordal graphs
Authors: Rahman Md. Zamilur , Mukhopadhyay Asish , Aneja Yash. P.
Published: March 2020

We propose a scheme for generating a weakly chordal graph on [Formula: see text] vertices with [Formula: see text] edges. In this method, we first construct a tree and then generate an orthogonal layout (which is a weakly chordal graph on the [Formula: see text] vertices) based on this tree. We then insert additional edges, if needed, for a total of [Formula: see text] edges. Our algorithm ensures that the graph remains weakly chordal after each edge is inserted. The time complexity of an insertion query is [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are the degrees of the vertices [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] we want to join with an edge and an insertion takes constant time. The advantages of this method are that it uses very simple data structures and exploits the basic structural properties of a weakly chordal graph.
Multitasking collision-free optimal motion planning algorithms in Euclidean spaces
Authors: Ipanaque Zapata Cesar A. , González Jesús
Published: March 2020

We present optimal motion planning algorithms which can be used in designing practical systems controlling objects moving in Euclidean space without collisions. Our algorithms are optimal in a very concrete sense, namely, they have the minimal possible number of local planners. Our algorithms are motivated by those presented by Mas-Ku and Torres-giese (as streamlined by Farber), and are developed within the more general context of the multitasking (a.k.a. higher) motion planning problem. In addition, an eventual implementation of our algorithms is expected to work more efficiently than previous ones when applied to systems with a large number of moving objects.
Obtaining, structure, microstructure and dielectric characteristics of ceramics and thin films of ferro-piezoelectric materials based on the PZT system
Authors: Andryushina Inna , Pavlenko Anatoliy , Zinchenko Sergey , Andryushin Konstantin , Shilkina Lidiya , Glazunova Ekaterina , Nagaenko Alexandr , Stryukov Daniil , Sadykov Hizir , Reznichenko Larisa
Published: March 2020

This paper presents the results of studies of the structure, microstructure, dependences of the piezoelectric properties on the electric field (dielectric hysteresis loops, reversible nonlinearity, deformation characteristics) and dielectric properties of the ceramic material PCR-13 (based on the PZT system) in the temperature range 300–900[Formula: see text]K and frequencies of an alternating electric field ([Formula: see text]) Hz. The character of the obtained dependences made it possible to attribute PCR-13 to ferro-hard materials. Using the HF cathodic sputtering method, PCR-13 thin films were fabricated on Si (001) substrates. It is shown that they are polycrystalline textured, while in comparison with bulk material, the film contains tensile stresses of the unit cell in the plane of the substrate and compresses in the perpendicular direction with the value [Formula: see text]. The capacitance-voltage characteristics of the Al/PCR-13/Si/Al heterostructure were studied. The reasons for the revealed patterns are discussed.
Learning Semantic Representations from Directed Social Links to Tag Microblog Users at Scale
Authors: Zhao Wayne Xin , Hou Yupeng , Chen Junhua , Zhu Jonathan J. H. , Yin Eddy Jing , Su Hanting , Wen Ji-Rong
Published: March 2020

This article presents a network embedding approach to automatically generate tags for microblog users. Instead of using text data, we aim to annotate microblog users with meaningful tags by leveraging rich social link data. To utilize directed social links, we use two kinds of node representations for modeling user interest in terms of their followers and followees, respectively. To alleviate the sparsity problem, we propose a novel method based on two transformation functions for capturing implicit interest similarity. Different from previous works on capturing high-order proximity, our model is able to directly characterize the effect of the context user on the proximity of node pairs. Another novelty of our model is that the importance scores of users learned from the classic PageRank algorithm are utilized to set the link weights. By using such weights, our model is more capable of disentangling the interest similarity evidence of a link. We jointly consider the above factors when designing the final objective function.

We construct a very large evaluation set consisting of 2.6M users, 0.5M tags, and 0.8B following links. To our knowledge, it is the largest reported dataset for microblog user tagging in the literature. Extensive experiments on this dataset demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. We implement this approach with several optimization techniques, which makes our model easy to scale to very large social networks. Ubiquitous social links provide important data resources to understand user interests. Our work provides an effective and efficient solution to annotate user interests solely using the link data, which has important practical value in industry. To illustrate the use of our models, we implement a demonstration system for visualizing, navigating, and searching microblog users.
A Chemically Defined Serum-Free Culture System for Spontaneous Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell Spheroid Formation
Authors: Zhao Yajun , Xiao E. , Lv Wanqi , Dong Xian , He Linhai , Wang Yixiang , Zhang Yi
Published: March 2020

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess promising potential in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Previous studies demonstrated that spheroid formation of MSCs exhibited improved stemness maintenance and therapeutic potential compared with monolayer culture. To date, various spheroid culture systems have been developed but most of them required low adhesion conditions or special equipment. In this study, we demonstrated that inoculation of dissociated MSCs in TeSR-E8 medium could induce self-assemble spheroid formation in conventional tissue culture polystyrene dishes. Compared with monolayer culture, adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) spheroids enhanced the proliferation and osteogenic capability of ADSCs compared with monolayer culture. When reseeded in normal serum-containing medium, the expression level of stemness biomarkers was even higher in spheroid-derived ADSCs than monolayer culture. Importantly, spheroid ADSCs could effectively promote the M2 polarization of macrophages both in vitro and in vivo. After transplantation into mouse, spheroid ADSCs improved the survival rate and significantly decreased serum levels of proinflammatory factors IL-1β and TNF-α following LPS challenge. In summary, we developed a 3D spheroid culture system through TeSR-E8 medium without the involvement of low adhesion conditions and special equipment, which provided a practical and convenient method for spheroid formation of MSCs with great potential for stem cell clinical therapy.
Knowledge about Diabetes and Glycemic Control among Diabetic Patients in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abouammoh Noura A. , Alshamrani Muteb A.
Published: March 2020

The prevalence of diabetes in various regions has attracted significant attention of the medical experts. The prevalence of diabetes is expected to increase in the future due to changes in lifestyle and unhealthy diets of individuals. The objective of the study is to identify the extent of knowledge related to diabetes and glycemic controls in various diabetic patients living in Saudi Arabia. A total of 435 patients were recruited using a random sampling technique, while following a cross-sectional design. Patients’ knowledge was tested using the Michigan Diabetes Knowledge Test. Findings of the study illustrated that the problem was common among middle-aged male patients. A significant amount of knowledge related to the consumption of medicines, insulin, healthy diet, etc. was found among diabetic patients. Despite the fact that people have adequate knowledge, valuable attention is yet required to provide necessary counselling to people living in Saudi Arabia that may help them to control health risks and mortality.
Polyaniline Deposition on the Surface of Cotton Fibers: Structural Studies, Swelling Behavior, and Water Absorption Properties
Authors: Teklu Tesfamariam , Gebremedhin Teklit Kidane , Tesfay Amanual Hadera , Gebru Asfaw Gebretsadik , Desta Ykalo Hadush , Mihretu Libargachew Demlie , Lemma Hayal , Gebreyesus Hiluf Hindeya , Alemayo Tadele
Published: March 2020

Polyaniline‐modified natural fibers have been recognized as promising candidates for conductive clothes, UV protection, and electromagnetic interference shielding. Hence, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of surface deposition of cotton fibers using polyaniline via in situ polymerization, and preceding structural changes were further screened by FT‐IR, UV‐Vis, TGA, SEM/EDX, and conductivity in comparison with bare cotton fibers used as the control sample. Polyaniline was introduced on the surface of cotton fibers as a conductive form, which was confirmed by electrical conductivity (1.54 × 10−4 Scm−1) equivalent to semiconductor materials. Detection of particular peaks at NKα 0.379 keV and ClKα 2.621 keV from EDX analysis revealed the introduction of nitrogen and chlorine, respectively. Polyaniline deposition on the cotton surface was successful to introduce hydrophobic environment to the system to enhance resistance to water absorption meaningfully.
Recent Advance in Source, Property, Differentiation, and Applications of Infrapatellar Fat Pad Adipose-Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Zhong Yu-chen , Wang Shi-chun , Han Yin-he , Wen Yu
Published: March 2020

Infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP) can be easily obtained during knee surgery, which avoids the damage to patients for obtaining IPFP. Infrapatellar fat pad adipose-derived stem cells (IPFP-ASCs) are also called infrapatellar fat pad mesenchymal stem cells (IPFP-MSCs) because the morphology of IPFP-ASCs is similar to that of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs). IPFP-ASCs are attracting more and more attention due to their characteristics suitable to regenerative medicine such as strong proliferation and differentiation, anti-inflammation, antiaging, secreting cytokines, multipotential capacity, and 3D culture. IPFP-ASCs can repair articular cartilage and relieve the pain caused by osteoarthritis, so most of IPFP-related review articles focus on osteoarthritis. This article reviews the anatomy and function of IPFP, as well as the discovery, amplification, multipotential capacity, and application of IPFP-ASCs in order to explain why IPFP-ASC is a superior stem cell source in regenerative medicine.
The Use of Platelet‐Rich Plasma for the Treatment of Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: A Systematic Review
Authors: Han Jun , Gao Fuqiang , Li Yajia , Ma Jinhui , Sun Wei , Shi Lijun , Wu Xinjie , Li Tengqi
Published: March 2020

Background. As a pathological process, osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is characterized by the avascularity of the femoral head, cellular necrosis, microfracture, and the collapse of the articular surface. Currently, critical treatment for early‐stage ONFH is limited to core decompression. However, the efficacy of core decompression remains controversial. To improve the core decompression efficacy, regenerative techniques such as the use of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) were proposed for early‐stage ONFH. As a type of autologous plasma containing concentrations of platelets greater than the baseline, PRP plays an important role in tissue repair, regeneration, and the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the operation modes, mechanism, and efficacy of PRP for early‐stage ONFH treatment. Methods. We searched for relevant studies in the PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases. By searching these electronic databases, the identification of either clinical or experimental studies evaluating PRP, MSC, core decompression, and ONFH was our goal. Results. Seventeen studies of PRP and avascular necrosis of the femoral head were evaluated in our review. Ten studies related to the possible mechanism of PRP for treating ONFH were reviewed. Seven studies of the operation modes of PRP in treating ONFH were identified. We reviewed the efficacy of PRP in treating ONFH systematically and made an attempt to compare the PRP operation modes in 7 studies and other operation modes in past studies for early‐stage ONFH treatment. Conclusion. PRP treats ONFH mainly through three mechanisms: inducing angiogenesis and osteogenesis to accelerate bone healing, inhibiting inflammatory reactions in necrotic lesions, and preventing apoptosis induced by glucocorticoids. In addition, as an adjunctive therapy for core decompression, the use of PRP is recommended to improve the treatment of early‐stage ONFH patients, especially when combined with stem cells and bone grafts, by inducing osteogenic activity and stimulating the differentiation of stem cells in necrotic lesions.
Osler-Weber-Rendu Disease Uncovered by Preeclampsia in a Case Report
Authors: Ouachaou Jamal , Mimouni Hamza , Maarad Mohammed , Mellagui Yassine , Oulad Amar Asmae , Bkiyar Houssam , Kamaoui Imane , Housni Brahim
Published: March 2020

Osler-Weber-Rendu disease (OWRD), called hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, is an uncommon genetic illness with the dominant autosomal transmission. It cannot be easily or quickly diagnosed because of both its infrequency and its various associated symptoms. As far as its symptoms are concerned, the patient experiences recurring epistaxis, mucocutaneous telangiectasia, and arteriovenous malformations that can lead to severe undesirable symptoms. In our case, we report a 32-year-old female that was diagnosed with postpartum preeclampsia and whose paraclinical examinations showed that she suffers from hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia disease. Management of OWRD includes systematic diagnosis of visceral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in regular intervals, measures to prevent complications, and symptomatic treatment.
High Hydrostatic Pressure Therapy Annihilates Squamous Cell Carcinoma in a Murine Model
Authors: Mitsui Toshihito , Morimoto Naoki , Mahara Atsushi , Notodihardjo Sharon Claudia , Le Tien Minh , Munisso Maria Chiara , Kakudo Natsuko , Yamaoka Tetsuji , Kusumoto Kenji
Published: March 2020

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is one of the most common skin cancers. In the treatment of cSCC, it is necessary to remove it completely, and reconstructive surgery, such as a skin graft or a local or free flap, will be required, depending on the size, with donor‐site morbidity posing a burden to the patient. The high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) technique has been developed as a physical method of decellularizing various tissues. We previously reported that HHP at 200 MPa for 10 min could inactivate all cells in the giant congenital melanocytic nevus, and we have already started a clinical trial using this technique. In the present study, we explored the critical pressurization condition for annihilating cSCC cells in vitro and confirmed that this condition could also annihilate cSCC in vivo. We prepared 5 pressurization conditions in this study (150, 160, 170, 180, and 190 MPa for 10 min) and confirmed that cSCC cells were killed by pressurization at ≥160 MPa for 10 min. In the in vivo study, the cSCC cells inactivated by HHP at 200 MPa for 10 min were unable to proliferate after injection into the intradermal space of mice, and transplanted cSCC tissues that had been inactivated by HHP showed a decreased weight at 5 weeks after implantation. These results suggested that HHP at 200 MPa for 10 min was able to annihilate SCC, so HHP technology may be a novel treatment of skin cancer.
A WeChat-Based System of Real-Time Monitoring and Alarming for Power Grid Operation Status under Virtual Private Cloud Environment
Authors: Lian Chunjie , Wei Hua , Bai Xiaoqing , Lyu Zhongliang
Published: March 2020

The existing power grid alarm system using SMS (SMSAS) is complex and suffers some problems such as high latency in data transmission, low reliability, and poor economy. For solving these problems, this paper proposes a WeChat-based system under the virtual private cloud environment to achieve real-time monitoring and alarming for the power grid operation status (WMAS). For WMAS, the WeChat mini program (WMP) is adopted, and it has the dedicated data channel using the Https protocol, which is set up in the WMP and the web API to encrypt the data content to ensure the integrity of the data. Combined with virtual private cloud technology, the hardware resources are virtualized, and the proposed system has strong disaster recovery capability, which significantly improves the flexibility and reliability of the system. Compared with SMSAS, our simulation shows that the time from sending to receiving the information in the proposed system is reduced from 4.9 seconds to 172 milliseconds, with the latency reduced by 28 times. On the contrary, the reliability of the proposed system is as high as 99.9971%, and the annual failure time is 15.24 minutes, which is 380 times lower than 96.51 hours of the SMSAS. The proposed system has been implemented in the Lipu power system in Guangxi, China. More than one year of stable operation indicates that the proposed system is safe, reliable, flexible, and convenient with a bright prospect for future applications.
Property Improvement of Cement Emulsified Asphalt Paste Modified by Graphene Oxide
Authors: Ma Yu-wei , Zhao Hong-yan , Li Gang , Wang Zhen-jun , Tang Hua , Wang Ai-qin
Published: March 2020

Cement emulsified asphalt paste (CEAP) is widely used as a construction and building material by combining the advantages of cement rigidity and asphalt flexibility. However, the properties of CEAP can be evidently reduced due to the addition of emulsified asphalt. In this work, graphene oxide (GO) was prepared by the Hummers method and was innovatively used to improve the workability and strength of CEAP. The viscosity of CEAP was tested by Brookfield viscometer. In addition, the effects of GO on the setting time of CEAP were studied. The adsorption between cement and asphalt with GO was tested through an ultraviolet‐visible spectrophotometer and the stability of CEAP was tested by zeta potentiometer. The effects of GO on the strength of CEAP were studied. The reinforcement effects of GO on CEAP were analyzed. The results show that the viscosity of CEAP and cement hydration products can increase after adding a reasonable dosage of GO to CEAP. The setting time of CEAP first decreases and then increases with the increase of GO dosage. The adsorption and viscosity of cement and asphalt increase with the increase of GO dosage. GO can reduce CEAP stability and make the paste easier to agglomerate. The flexural strength and the compressive strength of CEAP at 28 curing days first increase and then decrease with the increase of GO dosage, but excessive GO can hinder cement hydration. The reasonable dosage of GO in CEAP can be determined as 0.06% in asphalt weight.
Acupuncture at Gastric Back‐Shu and Front‐Mu Acupoints Enhances Gastric Motility via the Inhibition of the Glutamatergic System in the Hippocampus
Authors: Wang Hao , Liu Wen-Jian , Hu Meng-Jie , Zhang Meng-Ting , Shen Guo-Ming
Published: March 2020

Acupuncture strongly alleviates gastrointestinal symptoms and especially promotes gastrointestinal motility. However, the mechanism underlying these processes is poorly understood. This study was designed to examine the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at gastric back‐shu (BL21) and front‐mu (RN12) acupoints on gastric motility in functional dyspepsia (FD) rats and to investigate the mechanisms of its effects on the glutamatergic system in the hippocampus. We found that EA at RN12 or BL21 enhanced gastric motility in FD rats, whereas EA at the combination of RN12 and BL21 showed an additional effect. Microdialysis combined with HPLC showed that EA reduced the glutamate content in the hippocampus, and the NMDAR‐NO‐cGMP signalling pathway was downregulated, as determined by Western blot assays, in FD rats. In addition, we found that decreased gastric motility was significantly restored by the hippocampal infusion of an NMDAR, nNOS, or sGC antagonist. Interestingly, EA had no further effects on gastric motility in the presence of these antagonists in FD rats. Taken together, these results suggest that the hippocampal glutamatergic system is involved in the regulation of gastric motility by EA at RN12 and BL21.
A Cost and Passenger Responsible Optimization Method for the Operation Plan of Additional High-Speed Trains in a Peak Period
Authors: Liu Yutong , Cao Chengxuan , Feng Ziyan , Zhou Yaling
Published: March 2020

In the peak period of a railway system, operators typically add additional trains to provide increased capacity to satisfy the increasing passenger demand. The paper proposes a new optimization framework for designing the operation plan, which includes the number of additional trains, train type, stop plan, and timetable, for additional trains in a peak period. A space-time network representation is used to obtain a feasible primary operation plan by finding a set of feasible space-time paths in the space-time network. Considering simultaneously the passenger demand and the trains’ total travel times, we formulate a biobjective integer programming model for generating a cost and passenger responsible primary operation plan. A set of loading capacity constraints are formulated in the model to guarantee a suitable loading capacity for each station’s passenger demand and better service for passengers. The CPLEX solver is used to solve the proposed model and to generate the optimal operation plan. Two sets of numerical experiments are conducted on a small-scale rail corridor and on the Wuhan-Guangzhou rail corridor to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. The results of the experiments show that the primary operation plan can be obtained within an acceptable computation time.
Acupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) for Experimental Sepsis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lai Fang , Ren Yang , Lai Chengzhi , Chen Rui , Yin Xuelian , Tan Caixia , Li Jiansen , Yang Chunmei , Liang Guorong , Li Jun , Zeng Ruifeng
Published: March 2020

Background. Sepsis is a global major health problem with high mortality rates. More effective therapy is needed for treating sepsis. Acupuncture has been used for various diseases, including severe infection, in China for more than 2,000 years. Previous studies reported that acupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) might be effective in treating sepsis, but the efficacy and the quality of evidence remain unclear since there is no systematic review on acupuncture at ST36 for sepsis. Methods. Seven databases were searched from the inception of each database up to May 2019. Ultimately, 54 studies using acupuncture at ST36 for the treatment of experimental sepsis were identified in both English and Chinese literature with systematic review procedures. Results. Acupuncture might be useful in reducing injuries induced by sepsis in cardiac, lung, kidney, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and immune system. Its potential mechanisms for antisepsis might include reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, improving microcirculatory disturbance, and maintaining the immune balance mediated by dopamine. However, the positive findings should be interpreted with caution due to poor methodological quality and publication bias. Conclusion. Acupuncture at ST36 might be a promising complementary strategy for controlling sepsis inflammation, yet further studies are needed.
The Assessment of the Reduction Algorithm in the Treatment for “Logsplitter” Injury
Authors: Shou Kangquan , Adhikary Richa , Zou Liang , Yao Hao , Yang Huarui , Adhikary Krishna , Yang Yi , Bao Tongzhu
Published: March 2020

As a rare and exceptional injury with significant syndesmotic disruption, the outcome of Logsplitter injury remains poor and unfavorable. In this study, we retrospectively investigated the relationship between the intraoperative reduction quality and the prognosis such as the posttraumatic osteoarthritis to help surgeons achieve better functional outcomes for this high‐energy transsyndesmotic ankle fracture dislocation. From January 2015 to February 2019, 31 patients (average 37.6 ± 9.4 years with 19 male and 12 female) diagnosed with the Logsplitter injury were treated by ORIF procedure and enrolled in our study. Particularly, nine vital radiographic parameters including medial clear space, talocrural angle, superior clear space, tibiofibular clear space, tibiofibular overlap, talar tilt, coin sign, tibial medial malleolus angle, and fibular lateral malleolus angle were measured from a postoperative film (AP and mortise view). Next, we compared the clinical outcome by using range of ankle motion, AOFAS scores, Burwell‐Charnley score system, and Kellergen‐Lawrence criteria from the patients who obtained the intraoperative anatomical reduction with those who failed. Our results showed that AOFAS score with all the patients was 79.33 ± 5.82 at the final follow‐up. 14 (45.1%) of 31 patients were observed with radiographic posttraumatic arthritis of the ankle joint with an average Kellgren‐Lawrence score of 1.75 ± 1.6 at final follow‐up. Most importantly, our results proved that there were significant differences between the patients eligible for anatomical reduction quality with those who failed with regard to OA rate (33.3% vs. 85.7%, P = 0.003) and AOFAS scores (75.33 ± 6.53 vs. 66.89 ± 4.28, P = 0.037) at the final follow‐up. Furthermore, the functional outcome after the operation showed an increased range of motion of the ankle joint of the patients obtained anatomical reduction compared with those who failed (P < 0.05). In this study, the significant discrepancy with regard to the functional outcomes was observed between the acceptable and unacceptable radiographic parameters, indicating that the quality of intraoperative reduction is scientifically significant and thus can be utilized as the major factor to predict the clinical outcomes for Logsplitter injuries. Moreover, this reduction algorithm arising from our study can also be applied to other ankle fractures and dislocation involving syndesmotic complex.
Leptin Regulated ILC2 Cell through the PI3K/AKT Pathway in Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Zeng Qingxiang , Luo Xi , Tang Yiquan , Liu Wenlong , Luo Renzhong
Published: March 2020

Background. Recent studies suggest that leptin is involved in Th2 response in allergic rhinitis (AR). However, the effect of leptin on type II innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) in AR is not well characterized.Methods. Twenty-six AR patients and 20 healthy controls were enrolled. Serum leptin levels were measured, and their correlation with ILC2 and type II cytokines were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and flow cytometry. ILC2 differentiation and cytokine production stimulated by human recombinant leptin were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and ELISA. AR mouse models were also established to verify the effect of leptin on ILC2 cell regulation.Results. Our results showed that elevated serum leptin in AR patients was correlated with the percentage of ILC2 and the expression of type II cytokines. The recombinant leptin enhanced the expression of ILC2 cell transcription factors and type II cytokine through the PI3K/AKT pathway. The AR mice treated with leptin showed as stronger ILC2 inflammation and symptoms compared with control mice.Conclusions. Our data provide evidence that upregulation of leptin promotes ILC2 responses in AR and this process was achieved through the PI3K/AKT pathway.
Presumptive Dipylidium caninum Infection in a Toddler
Authors: Chong Hannah F , Al Hammoud Roukaya , Chang Michael L
Published: March 2020

We report a female toddler who presented repetitively with a chief complaint of motile white worms seen in her diapers. Symptoms of perianal itching and visualization of visible motile worms persisted for 6 months despite being treated with multiple courses of albendazole causing a lot of frustration and distress to the caregivers. The characteristics of the worms by inspection along with the presence of 3 pet dogs are consistent with Dipylidium caninum.
Acrocomia aculeata(Jacq.) Lodd. ex Mart. Leaves Increase SIRT1 Levels and Improve Stress Resistance
Authors: Monteiro-Alfredo Tamaeh , Matafome Paulo , Iacia Bianca Pancoti , Antunes Kátia Ávila , dos Santos Jéssica Maurino , da Silva Melo da Cunha Janielle , Oliveira Sara , Oliveira Alex Santos , Campos Jaqueline Ferreira , Magalhães Mariana , Cabral Célia , Seiça Raquel , Cardoso Cláudia Andrea Lima , de Oliveira Caio Fernando Ramalho , dos Santos Edson Lucas , de Picoli Souza Kely
Published: March 2020

Oxidative stress is a metabolic disorder linked with several chronic diseases, and this condition can be improved by natural antioxidants. The fruit pulp of the palmAcrocomia aculeata(Jacq.) Lodd. ex Mart. is widely used in the treatment of various illnesses, but as far as we know, there are no reports regarding the properties of its leaves. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activity ofA. aculeataleaf extracts obtained with water (EA-Aa), ethanol (EE-Aa), and methanol (EM-Aa) solvents. The extracts were chemically characterized, and their antioxidant activity was assessed through the scavenging of the free radicals DPPH and ABTS. EE-Aa and EM-Aa showed the highest amounts of phenolic compounds and free radical scavenging activity. However, EA-Aa was more efficient to protect human erythrocytes against AAPH-induced hemolysis and lipid peroxidation. Thus, we further show the antioxidant effect of EA-Aa in preventing AAPH-induced protein oxidation, H2O2-induced DNA fragmentation, and ROS generation in Cos-7 cells. Increased levels of Sirt1, catalase, and activation of ERK and Nrf2 were observed in Cos-7 treated with EA-Aa. We also verify increased survival in nematodesC. elegans, when induced to the oxidative condition by Juglone. Therefore, our results showed a typical chemical composition of plants for all extracts, but the diversity of compounds presented in EA-Aa is involved in the lower toxicity and antioxidant properties provided to the macromolecules tested, proteins, DNA, and lipids. This protective effect also proven in Cos-7 and inC. eleganswas probably due to the activation of the Sirt1/Nrf2 pathway. Altogether, the low toxicity and the antioxidant properties of EA-Aa showed in all the experimental models support its further use in the treatment of oxidative stress-related diseases.
A Two-Stage Scheduling RPC Based on Time-Varying Coefficient Information of State-Dependent ARX Model
Authors: Zhou Feng , Zhu Peidong , Xie Minghua , Wu Jun , Cao Lihua
Published: March 2020

A two-stage scheduling robust predictive control (RPC) algorithm, which is based on the time-varying coefficient information of the state-dependent ARX (SD-ARX) model, is designed for the output tracking control of a class of nonlinear systems. First, by using the parameter variation range information of the SD-ARX, a strategy for constructing the system’s polytopic model is designed. To further reduce the conservativeness of the convex polytopic sets which are designed to wrap the system’s future dynamics, the variation range information of the SD-ARX model’s parameters is also considered and compressed. In this method, the polytopic state-space model of the system is constructed directly based on the special structure of the SD-ARX model itself, and there is no need to make such assumption that the bounds on the parameter’s variation range in the system model are known or measurable. And then, a two-stage scheduling RPC algorithm is designed for the output tracking control. A numerical example is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed RPC strategy.
Identification and Validation of Immune-Related Gene Prognostic Signature for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Wenbiao , Ou Minglin , Tang Donge , Dai Yong , Du Weibo
Published: March 2020

Immune-related genes (IRGs) have been identified as critical drivers of the initiation and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study is aimed at constructing an IRG signature for HCC and validating its prognostic value in clinical application. The prognostic signature was developed by integrating multiple IRG expression data sets from TCGA and GEO databases. The IRGs were then combined with clinical features to validate the robustness of the prognostic signature through bioinformatics tools. A total of 1039 IRGs were identified in the 657 HCC samples. Subsequently, the IRGs were subjected to univariate Cox regression and LASSO Cox regression analyses in the training set to construct an IRG signature comprising nine immune-related gene pairs (IRGPs). Functional analyses revealed that the nine IRGPs were associated with tumor immune mechanisms, including cell proliferation, cell-mediated immunity, and tumorigenesis signal pathway. Concerning the overall survival rate, the IRGPs distinctly grouped the HCC samples into the high- and low-risk groups. Also, we found that the risk score based on nine IRGPs was related to clinical and pathologic factors and remained a valid independent prognostic signature after adjusting for tumor TNM, grade, and grade in multivariate Cox regression analyses. The prognostic value of the nine IRGPs was further validated by forest and nomogram plots, which revealed that it was superior to the tumor TNM, grade, and stage. Our findings suggest that the nine-IRGP signature can be effective in determining the disease outcomes of HCC patients.
Machine Learning for the Preliminary Diagnosis of Dementia
Authors: Zhu Fubao , Li Xiaonan , Tang Haipeng , He Zhuo , Zhang Chaoyang , Hung Guang-Uei , Chiu Pai-Yi , Zhou Weihua
Published: March 2020

Objective. The reliable diagnosis remains a challenging issue in the early stages of dementia. We aimed to develop and validate a new method based on machine learning to help the preliminary diagnosis of normal, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), very mild dementia (VMD), and dementia using an informant-based questionnaire. Methods. We enrolled 5,272 individuals who filled out a 37-item questionnaire. In order to select the most important features, three different techniques of feature selection were tested. Then, the top features combined with six classification algorithms were used to develop the diagnostic models. Results. Information Gain was the most effective among the three feature selection methods. The Naive Bayes algorithm performed the best (accuracy = 0.81, precision = 0.82, recall = 0.81, and F-measure = 0.81) among the six classification models. Conclusion. The diagnostic model proposed in this paper provides a powerful tool for clinicians to diagnose the early stages of dementia.
miR-155-5p Promotes Oxalate- and Calcium-Induced Kidney Oxidative Stress Injury by Suppressing MGP Expression
Authors: Jiang Kehua , Hu Jianxin , Luo Guangheng , Song Dalong , Zhang Peng , Zhu Jianguo , Sun Fa
Published: March 2020

Oxalate and calcium are the major risk factors for calcium oxalate (CaOx) stone formation. However, the exact mechanism remains unclear. This study was designed to confirm the potential function of miR-155-5p in the formation of CaOx induced by oxalate and calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM). The HK-2 cells were treated by the different concentrations of oxalate and COM for 48 h. We found that oxalate and COM treatment significantly increased ROS generation, LDH release, cellular MDA levels, and H2O2 concentration in HK-2 cells. The results of qRT-PCR and western blot showed that expression of NOX2 was upregulated, while that of SOD-2 was downregulated following the treatment with oxalate and COM in HK-2 cells. Moreover, the results of miRNA microarray analysis showed that miR-155-5p was significantly upregulated after oxalate and COM treated in HK-2 cells, but miR-155-5p inhibitor treatment significantly decreased ROS generation, LDH release, cellular MDA levels, and H2O2 concentration in HK-2 cells incubated with oxalate and COM. miR-155-5p negatively regulated the expression level of MGP via directly targeting its 3′-UTR, verified by the Dual-Luciferase Reporter System. In vivo, polarized light optical microphotography showed that CaOx crystal significantly increased in the high-dose oxalate and Ca2+ groups compared to the control group. Furthermore, IHC analyses showed strong positive staining intensity for the NOX-2 protein in the high-dose oxalate and Ca2+-treated mouse kidneys, and miR-155-5p overexpression can further enhance its expression. However, the expression of SOD-2 protein was weakly stained. In conclusion, our study indicates that miR-155-5p promotes oxalate- and COM-induced kidney oxidative stress injury by suppressing MGP expression.
Somatic Mutations in HER2 and Implications for Current Treatment Paradigms in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Gaibar Maria , Beltrán Laura , Romero-Lorca Alicia , Fernández-Santander Ana , Novillo Apolonia
Published: March 2020

In one of every four or five cases of breast cancer, the human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) gene is overexpressed. These carcinomas are known as HER2-positive. HER2 overexpression is linked to an aggressive phenotype and a lower rate of disease-free and overall survival. Drugs such as trastuzumab, pertuzumab, lapatinib, neratinib, and the more recent afatinib target the deregulation of HER2 expression. Some authors have attributed somatic mutations in HER2, a role in resistance to anti-HER2 therapy as differential regulation of HER2 has been observed among patients. Recently, studies in metastatic ER + tumors suggest that some HER2 mutations emerge as a mechanism of acquired resistance to endocrine therapy. In an effort to identify possible biomarkers of the efficacy of anti-HER2 therapy, we here review the known single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the HER2 gene found in HER2-positive breast cancer patients and their relationship with clinical outcomes. Information was recompiled on 11 somatic HER2 SNPs. Seven polymorphisms are located in the tyrosine kinase domain region of the gene contrasting with the low number of mutations found in extracellular and transmembrane areas. HER2-positive patients carrying S310F, S310Y, R678Q, D769H, or I767M mutations seem good candidates for anti-HER2 therapy as they show favorable outcomes and a good response to current pharmacological treatments. Carrying the L755S or D769Y mutation could also confer benefits when receiving neratinib or afatinib. By contrast, patients with mutations L755S, V842I, K753I, or D769Y do not seem to benefit from trastuzumab. Resistance to lapatinib has been reported in patients with L755S, V842I, and K753I. These data suggest that exploring HER2 SNPs in each patient could help individualize anti-HER2 therapies. Advances in our understanding of the genetics of the HER2 gene and its relations with the efficacy of anti-HER2 treatments are needed to improve the outcomes of patients with this aggressive breast cancer.
A New Clustering Algorithm and Its Application in Assessing the Quality of Underground Water
Authors: Vo-Van T. , Nguyen-Hai A. , Tat-Hong M. V. , Nguyen-Trang T.
Published: March 2020

Cluster analysis, which is to partition a dataset into groups so that similar elements are assigned to the same group and dissimilar elements are assigned to different ones, has been widely studied and applied in various fields. The two challenging tasks in clustering are determining the suitable number of clusters and generating clusters of arbitrary shapes. This paper proposes a new concept of “epsilon radius neighbors” which plays an essential role in the cluster-forming process, thereby determining both the number of clusters and the shape of clusters, automatically. Based on “epsilon radius neighbors,” a new clustering algorithm in which the epsilon radius value is adapted to the characteristics of each cluster in the current partition is proposed. Recently, clustering has been widely applied in environmental applications, including underground water quality monitoring. However, the existing studies have simply applied conventional clustering techniques, in which the abovementioned two challenging tasks have not been solved already. Therefore, in this paper, the proposed clustering algorithm is applied in assessing the underground water quality in Phu My Town, Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, Vietnam. The experimental results on benchmark datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. For the quality of underground water, the new algorithm results in four clusters with different characteristics. Through this application, we found that the new algorithm might provide valuable reference information for underground water management.
Psychological and Physiological Relaxation Induced by Nature-Working with Ornamental Plants
Authors: Tao Jiang , Hassan Ahmad , Qibing Chen , Yinggao Liu , Li Guo , Jiang Mingyan , Li Deng , Nian Li , Bing-Yang Lv , Ziqin Zhong
Published: March 2020

Objective. Nature has a significant impact on general well-being. However, till date, little psychophysiological evidence is available on the benefits of nature-based activities in adults. The primary goal of this study was to determine the physiological and psychological benefits of horticultural activity in adults. The participants were instructed to perform the making of a flower basket (horticultural activity) and a computer task (i.e., control activity) was compared.Methods. A total of 40 Chinese females (mean age 22.2 ± 0.9 years) participated in this experiment. The Blood pressure, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and the electroencephalograms (EEGs) were used to measure the participants’ psychophysiological responses.Results. Analysis of the STAI data showed a lower anxiety score after performing the horticultural activity than after performing the control activity. Furthermore, in the EEG evaluation, variations in the brainwaves were observed after both activities.Conclusions. The study results suggest that horticultural activity induced physiological and psychological relaxation in adults.
Perspectives of the Application of Liquid Biopsy in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Ding Yuhan , Li Wenxia , Wang Kun , Xu Chang , Hao Mengdi , Ding Lei
Published: March 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal tumors and the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Since traditional biopsies are invasive and do not reflect tumor heterogeneity or monitor the dynamic progression of tumors, there is an urgent need for new noninvasive methods that can supplement and improve the current management strategies of CRC. Blood‐based liquid biopsies are a promising noninvasive biomarker that can detect disease early, assist in staging, monitor treatment responses, and predict relapse and metastasis. Over time, an increasing number of experiments have indicated the clinical utility of liquid biopsies in CRC. In this review, we mainly focus on the development of circulating tumor cells and circulating tumor DNA as key components of liquid biopsies in CRC and introduce the potential of exosomal microRNAs as emerging liquid biopsy markers in clinical application for CRC.
A Novel Technique for Recurrent Tube Exposure Repair
Authors: Kang J. Minjy , Hsia Yen Cheng , Han Ying
Published: March 2020

Purpose. Tube exposure can lead to vision-threatening consequences and requires prompt surgical attention. Posterior repositioning of the tube to the pars plana has previously been reported as a successful technique. However, this method requires a pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Here, we describe a novel technique of repositioning the tube into the ciliary sulcus without requiring PPV. Methods. This is a retrospective interventional case report of two patients who had undergone prior glaucoma drainage device implantation and prior tube exposure repair and developed recurrent tube exposure. Tube exposure in the subjects was repaired by repositioning the tube in the ciliary sulcus. Results. The two eyes remained exposure free postoperatively with 51- and 60-month follow-ups. Conclusions. Repositioning the tube to the ciliary sulcus may be an effective technique to avoid reexposure.