bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hearing status before and after Stapes surgery in otosclerotic patients
Authors: Haque Md Nazmul , Hossain Md Abul , Alam KM Nurul , Islam Muhammad Rafiqul , Abdullah Mohammad
Published: February 2020

Background: Otosclerosis is a disease of the otic capsule that is characterized by resorption and redeposition of bony tissue. Stapes surgery has established its position as the primary treament of conductive hearing loss in otosclerosis. It is anticipated that the hearing level of approximately 90% of patients should improve after surgery.
Objective: To evaluate the hearing status of an otosclerotic patient and compare their preoperative and postoperative hearing status.
Methods: In this prospective study, 34 patients with otosclerosis from head-Neck Surgery department of Sir Salimullah Medical College & Mitford Hospital, Bangladesh ENT Hospital, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka. Period from January 2008 to December 2008. The patients were examined and hearing assessment after admission into the hospital pre-operatively and in the post-operative period.
Results: In this study most of the cases were age group 21-30 years (50%), male (64-71%), middle socio economic condition (67-71%), rural (58-82%), primary educated (35-29%). It was observed that most common symptom was progressive deafness; duration of hearing loss was 2-5 years, pre-operative conductive type of hearing loss (50-55 dB). It was also observed that after surgery, hearing status were improved in 82.35% cases, the most of the patients were within 21-30 years age group.
Conclusion: Stapedotomy obtaining closure of the air-bone gap to within 10dB of the preoperative bone conduction level in 90% of their patients. So, it is supperior to other procedures
 Bangladesh J of Otorhinolaryngology; October 2018; 24(2): 137-142
Rhinoplasty: Experience in Combined Military Hospital, Dhaka
Authors: Ahmed Md Bashir , Akter Rehena , Ahmed Salahuddin
Published: February 2020

Background: Rhinoplasty, perhaps is the most complex and challenging cosmetic surgical procedure performed today. Hence, a thorough preoperative evaluation and the surgical skill in performing the operation is most important for final desired outcome. Establishing an accurate diagnosis through a comprehensive nasal analysis is obligatory.
Objective: To assess post-operative functional and aesthetic outcome and patient’s satisfaction of all rhinoplasty operations.
Methods: Retrospective study carried out in combined military hospital, Dhaka. 50 patients with external nasal deformity who were operated for functional, aesthetic or for both reason were included. Patients’ satisfaction levels from the procedures were routinely documented in the post op visits as completely satisfied, partialy satisfied and not satisfied at all.
Results: A total of 50 cases underwent rhinoplasty and septorhinoplasty operations. The most common reason of disfigurement was traumatic injury during games (40%). Different surgical procedures were done without any major complications. Except few most of the patients were fully satisfied.
Conclusion: For better satisfaction of patients, adequate preoperative counseling and realistic expectations are warranted. Skillful surgical techniques reduce the chances of complications.
Bangladesh J Otorhinolaryngol; April 2019; 25(1): 3-9
Effect of Intravenous Dexamethasone on Propofol Injection Pain: A Randomized Placebo Controlled Study
Authors: Hossain Muhammad Sazzad , Rahman Md Afzalur , Rashid Mamunur , Islam Monirul , Babu Anisur Rahman , Hasan Mohammad Iftakhairul , Mahfuz Md Sirajul Islam
Published: February 2020

Background and aim of study: Pain on propofol injection (POPI) is a common problem. None of the commonly used methods completely attenuate the pain. Inflammatory response to propofol contributes to the pain. This study was conducted to compare the efficacy of dexamethasone in attenuation of pain following intravenous injection of propofol.
Materials and methods: A total of 80 adult patients were scheduled in this study with either sex, ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) grade I and II, for routine elective surgical procedure under general anesthesia. The patients enrolled were divided randomly into two groups of 40 patients each. Group I received 0.15 mg/kg of intravenous dexamethasone in 5 ml normal saline and Group II (placebo group) received 5 ml of 0.9% intravenous normal saline, following exsanguination and occlusion of the vein of the arm. This was followed by 0.5 mg/kg of propofol intravenously.The patients were asked to report their pain during injection of propofol according to the McCririck and Hunter scale.
Results: The incidence of pain experienced in dexamethasone group was 45% patients and in saline group was 70% patients (p<0.05). The severity of POPI was also lower in dexamethasone group than the saline group (p<0.05). The incidence of mild and moderate pain in dexamethasone groups versus saline group was 30% versus 45% and 15% versus 25% respectively p<0.05. There was no severe pain recorded in any groups.
Conclusion: Pretreatment with intravenous dexamethasone (0.15 mg/kg) before injection of propofol is effective and safe in reducing the incidence and severity of pain on propofol injection (POPI).
Bangladesh J Otorhinolaryngol; April 2019; 25(1): 28-33
Papillary thyroid carcinoma with neck metastasis in a 6 year old child: A case report
Authors: Matin MA , Sobhan AKMA , Kabir Md Shahjahan , Uddin AKM Shaif , Razzak Md Abdur , Azad Md Abul Kalam , Khanam Mohosana
Published: February 2020

Thyroid cancers account for 0.5-3.0% of all childhood malignancy. But these cancers are extremely rare in paediatric age group before the age of 6 years. Although the disease is biologically more aggressive in children when compared with adults, the prognosis is better in several series. We report and discuss a case of 6 years old child with papillary thyroid carcinoma, which is the youngest reported case in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh J Otorhinolaryngol; April 2019; 25(1): 60-63
Postavenie a význam zavedenia environmentálnych
daní v regióne V4
Authors: Csikósová Adriana , Mokrišová Viera , Čulková Katarína , Janošková Mária
Published: February 2020

Environmental policy, orientated to the decreasing of environmental burden is becoming worldwide problem, presenting important economic tool for decreasing of environmental burden in the regions. The goal of the contribution is to evaluate establishment of environmental taxes in V4 region from the view of environmental tax analysis in tax system, development of tax rate and collection of environmental taxes. The result of the analysis is evaluation of individual countries position during taxation of individual types of environmental burdens, as well as emphasizing of necessity to apply taxes as environmental tools for living environment protection. Revenues of environmental taxes do not achieve demanded level, applied in developed EU economies. There is therefore necessary to realize in the region systematic environmental tax reform with goal to support business environment.
Effect of Free-Range and Low-Protein Concentrated Diets on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, and Meat Composition of Iberian Pig
Authors: Tejeda Juan F. , Hernández-Matamoros Alejandro , Paniagua Mercedes , González Elena
Published: February 2020

The feeding system is one of the main factors influencing the Iberian pig meat quality. This experiment was undertaken to evaluate the influence of feeding diets containing different levels of protein on performance, carcass, and meat quality of Iberian pigs. To that aim, 24 castrated male Retinto Iberian pigs with an average weight of 116 kg were fed under free-range conditions with acorns and grass (FR), and on concentrated diets in confinement with standard (SP) and low protein content (LP). The crude protein content in acorns was lower than that in the grass and SP diet, but similar to that in the LP diet. FR pigs needed more time to achieve slaughter weight than LP and SP pigs. Iberian pigs fed on low-protein diet (FR and LP) had a higher intramuscular fat content in the musculus serratus ventralis than SP pigs. The influence of diet on the fatty-acid composition was reflected more markedly in subcutaneous fat than in muscles. FR pigs showed a higher level of C18:1 n-9 and total polyunsaturated fatty acids and lower total saturated fatty acids in subcutaneous fat than LP and SP. It is concluded that diets with low protein levels do not affect Iberian pig productive traits but change the meat composition, rendering them an interesting strategy to improve the quality of Iberian pig meat and dry-cured products.
Identification of Factors Affecting Predation Risk for Juvenile Turtles Using 3D Printed Models
Authors: Tetzlaff Sasha J. , Estrada Alondra , DeGregorio Brett A. , Sperry Jinelle H.
Published: February 2020

Although it is widely accepted that juvenile turtles experience high levels of predation, such events are rarely observed, providing limited evidence regarding predator identities and how juvenile habitat selection and availability of sensory cues to predators affects predation risk. We placed three-dimensional printed models resembling juvenile box turtles (Terrapene carolina) across habitats commonly utilized by the species at three sites within their geographical range and monitored models with motion-triggered cameras. To explore how the presence or absence of visual and olfactory cues affected predator interactions with models, we employed a factorial design where models were either exposed or concealed and either did or did not have juvenile box turtle scent applied on them. Predators interacted with 18% of models during field trials. Nearly all interactions were by mesopredators (57%) and rodents (37%). Mesopredators were more likely to attack models than rodents; most (76%) attacks occurred by raccoons (Procyon lotor). Interactions by mesopredators were more likely to occur in wetlands than edges, and greater in edges than grasslands. Mesopredators were less likely to interact with models as surrounding vegetation height increased. Rodents were more likely to interact with models that were closer to woody structure and interacted with exposed models more than concealed ones, but model exposure had no effect on interactions by mesopredators. Scent treatment appeared to have no influence on interactions by either predator group. Our results suggest raccoons can pose high predation risk for juvenile turtles (although rodents could also be important predators) and habitat features at multiple spatial scales affect predator-specific predation risk. Factors affecting predation risk for juveniles are important to consider in management actions such as habitat alteration, translocation, or predator control.
Application of Campylobacter jejuni Phages: Challenges and Perspectives
Authors: Ushanov Leonid , Lasareishvili Besarion , Janashia Irakli , Zautner Andreas E.
Published: February 2020

Bacteriophages (phages) are the most abundant and diverse biological entities in the biosphere. Due to the rise of multi-drug resistant bacterial strains during the past decade, phages are currently experiencing a renewed interest. Bacteriophages and their derivatives are being actively researched for their potential in the medical and biotechnology fields. Phage applications targeting pathogenic food-borne bacteria are currently being utilized for decontamination and therapy of live farm animals and as a biocontrol measure at the post-harvest level. For this indication, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several phage products targeting Listeria sp., Salmonella sp. and Escherichia coli. Phage-based applications against Campylobacter jejuni could potentially be used in ways similar to those against Salmonella sp. and Listeria sp.; however, only very few Campylobacter phage products have been approved anywhere to date. The research on Campylobacter phages conducted thus far indicates that highly diverse subpopulations of C. jejuni as well as phage isolation and enrichment procedures influence the specificity and efficacy of Campylobacter phages. This review paper emphasizes conclusions from previous findings instrumental in facilitating isolation of Campylobacter phages and improving specificity and efficacy of the isolates.
Extended-Spectrum β-lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae Shedding in Farm Horses Versus Hospitalized Horses: Prevalence and Risk Factors
Authors: Shnaiderman-Torban Anat , Navon-Venezia Shiri , Dor Ziv , Paitan Yossi , Arielly Haia , Abu Ahmad Wiessam , Kelmer Gal , Fulde Marcus , Steinman Amir
Published: February 2020

We aimed to investigate the prevalence, molecular characteristics and risk factors of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E) shedding in horses. A prospective study included three cohorts: (i) farm horses (13 farms, n = 192); (ii) on hospital admission (n = 168) and; (iii) horses hospitalized for ≥72 h re-sampled from cohort (ii) (n = 86). Enriched rectal swabs were plated, ESBL-production was confirmed (Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI)) and genes were identified (polymerase chain reaction (PCR)). Identification and antibiotic susceptibility were determined (Vitek-2). Medical records and owners’ questionnaires were analyzed. Shedding rates increased from 19.6% (n = 33/168) on admission to 77.9% (n = 67/86) during hospitalization (p < 0.0001, odds ratio (OR) = 12.12). Shedding rate in farms was 20.8% (n = 40/192), significantly lower compared to hospitalized horses (p < 0.0001). The main ESBL-E species (n = 192 isolates) were E. coli (59.9%, 115/192), Enterobacter sp. (17.7%, 34/192) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (13.0%, 25/192). The main gene group was CTX-M-1 (56.8%). A significant increase in resistance rates to chloramphenicol, enrofloxacin, gentamicin, nitrofurantoin, and trimethoprim-sulpha was identified during hospitalization. Risk factors for shedding in farms included breed (Arabian, OR = 3.9), sex (stallion, OR = 3.4), and antibiotic treatment (OR = 9.8). Older age was identified as a protective factor (OR = 0.88). We demonstrated an ESBL-E reservoir in equine cohorts, with a significant ESBL-E acquisition, which increases the necessity to implement active surveillance and antibiotic stewardship programs.
Secured Key Distribution by Concatenating Optical Communications and Inter-Device Hand-Held Video Transmission
Authors: Domb Menachem , Leshem Guy
Published: February 2020

Key distribution is a growing concern for symmetric cryptography. Most of the current key-distribution mechanisms assume the use of the Internet and WAN networks, which are exposed to security hazards. To overcome them, the use of comprehensive and robust cryptographic mechanisms such as Diffie–Hellman (DH) and RSA (Rivest–Shamir–Adleman) algorithms are proposed. These solutions are limited. DH and RSA have been under threat since the introduction of quantum computing. Hence, new ideas are required. This paper introduces a new security approach for a safe key transmission using undetected high-speed optical camera communication (OCC), which is based on the rolling shutter effect of modern smart cameras. The key transfer is done by blinking light-emitting diode (LED) lights in a specific sequence and frequency, following an encoding pattern. The receiver decodes the received blinks to a bit string using a corresponding image processing application. This optical media ensures secure transfer without the ability to quote it. We demonstrate in an experiment the feasibility of using basic wireless optical communication for key transmission, eliminating the need for a permanent, long, and costly setup. It is mobile, available everywhere anytime, and requires only simple connections to operate. The results show that this method is feasible, robust, efficient, and implementable.
Assessment of the Outdoor Thermal Comfort in Oases Settlements
Authors: Matallah Mohamed Elhadi , Alkama Djamel , Ahriz Atef , Attia Shady
Published: February 2020

Oases throughout the world have become important ecosystems to replenish food and water supplies. The Saharan Oases exist above the largest underground water supplies in the World. In North Africa, oases witness significantly growing populations in the oasis towns and receive thousands of tourists yearly. In oasis settlements, the majority of the population spends most of the time outdoors, in extremely hot conditions; however, few studies have investigated urban outdoor thermal comfort conditions. Therefore, this study aimed to assess thermal comfort in the Tolga Oasis Complex and test the validity of the ‘oasis effect’ concept. The methodology is based on comparative field measurement and calculation approaches in the heart of Tolga Palm Grove and in different urban settlements. Results indicate highest heat stress levels (Physiologically Equivalent Temperature (PET) index) in the oases Palm Grove in July, PET = 41.7 °C, and urban settlements, PET = 40.9 °C. Despite the significant difference between the old and new settlement fabrics, our measurements and calculation did not identify any noticeable variation of thermal comfort. Thus, the oasis effect on the outdoor thermal comfort was insignificant (during July and August 2018). Finally, the study discusses ways to improve outdoor spaces design and relieve heat stress in the settlements of Tolga.
Changes in Fog, Ice Fog, and Low Visibility in the Hudson Bay Region: Impacts on Aviation
Authors: Leung Andrew C. W. , Gough William A. , Butler Ken A.
Published: February 2020

Fog and low visibility present a natural hazard for aviation in the Hudson Bay region. Sixteen communities on the eastern and western shores of Hudson and James Bays, Canada, were selected for fog, ice fog, and low visibility statistical analyses for a range of 21 to 62 year time series. Both fog hours and ice fog hours were found to be in general decline, with some locations experiencing statistically significant declines. Spatial asymmetries for fog and ice fog were observed among the various areas within the Hudson Bay region. The more northerly locations in this study experienced statistically significant declines in fog hours while the southerly locations’ declines were not significant. Fog was significantly declining in some western Hudson Bay locations during spring and fall and in James Bay during winter and summer, but minimal trends were observed in eastern Hudson Bay. For ice fog hours, all of the locations in the western shore of Hudson Bay experienced a significant decline in winter while only one-third of the locations in eastern shores were found to be declining significantly during winter. Blowing snow, snow, ice and fog were the leading causes for reduced and low visibilities at the majority of the locations. Other factors such as rain contributed a minor role to low visibility.
Can the Aerosol Absorption Ångström Exponent Represent Aerosol Color in the Atmosphere: A Numerical Study
Authors: Zhao Dapeng , Yin Yan , Liu Chao , Lu Chunsong , Xu Xiaofeng
Published: February 2020

The aerosol absorption Ångström exponent (AAE) is widely used to indicate aerosol absorption spectrum variations and is an important parameter for characterizing aerosol optical absorption properties. This study discusses the relationship between aerosol AAEs and their colors numerically. By combining light scattering simulations, a two-stream radiative transfer model, and an RGB (Red, Green, and Blue) color model, aerosol colors that can be sensed by human eyes are numerically generated with both the solar spectrum and human eye response taken into account. Our results indicate that the responses of human eyes to visible light might be more significant than the incident spectrum in the simulation of aerosol color in the atmosphere. Using the improved numerical simulation algorithm, we obtain the color change of absorption aerosols with different AAEs. When the AAE value is small, the color of the aerosol is generally black and gray. When the AAE value increases to approximately 2 and the difference between the light transmittances at wavelengths of 400 nm and 730 nm is greater than 0.2, the aerosol will appear brown or yellow.
Environmental Effective Assessment of Control Measures Implemented by Clean Air Action Plan (2013–2017) in Beijing, China
Authors: Xue Yifeng , Zhang Shihao , Nie Teng , Cao Xizi , Shi Aijun
Published: February 2020

The Beijing government initiated the Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP) in 2013. Through a series of actions to control air pollution, the emissions of major atmospheric pollutants are reduced to improve urban air quality. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of control measures taken to mitigate atmospheric pollution, we investigated and analyzed the implementation of the CAAP in Beijing from 2013 to 2017, estimating the corresponding reduction in emissions of major air pollutants. The contribution of different control measures to the improvement of air quality was quantified and the experiences of managing air pollution were summarized, which provided references for the continuous improvement of air quality in Beijing and the surrounding areas. The results showed that the emission of SO2, NOX, PM10, PM2.5, and VOCs from air pollution source have been decreased by 119,924, 116,091, 116,810, 46,652, and 97,267 tons after the implementation of the CAAP. The sum of these five air pollutants emissions have been reduced by 39% in 2017 compared with 2013, the largest decrease in SO2 emissions was 87%, which was related to the vigorous control on coal-fired combustion. The control measure with the greatest contribution to decreasing the ambient PM2.5 concentration was the clean energy transformation of coal-fired power plants, which contributed 27% of the total reduced concentration and 6.1 μg/m3 of the average PM2.5 concentration reduction in Beijing. Clean Residential coal use also significantly decreased the PM2.5 concentration by 5.4 μg/m3, which was 23% of the total reduction. In addition, the industrial restructuring and the management of automotive vehicle use and dust could also contribute to efficiently reducing the PM2.5 concentration by 4.0, 3.2, and 2.3 μg/m3, or 17%, 14%, and 10% of the total reduction, respectively. Due to the implementation of control measures of Clean Air Action Plan, the energy and industrial structure of Beijing have been adjusted and optimized, leading to the reduction of pollutant emissions, which is the secret of urban long-term air quality improvement.
Monte Carlo Simulation of γ − γ Correlation Functions
Authors: Omer Mohamed , Bakr Mahmoud
Published: February 2020

γ − γ correlation functions are mathematical expressions that describe the angular distribution of cascade γ -rays emitted from an atomic nucleus. Cascade transitions may occur in either a two-step deexcitation or through an excitation-deexcitation process of a particular energy level inside the nucleus. In both cases, the nucleus returns to its ground energy state. Spin and parity of the excited state can be determined experimentally using the asymmetry of the angular distribution of the emitted radiation. γ − γ correlation functions are only valid for point-like targets and detectors. In the real experiments, however, neither the target nor the detector is point-like. Thus, misassignment of the spin-parity of energy levels may easily take place if only the analytical equations are considered. Here, we develop a new Monte Carlo simulation method of the γ − γ correlation functions to account for the extended target and detector involved in spin-parity measurements using nuclear resonance fluorescence of nuclei. The proposed simulation tool can handle arbitrary geometries and spin sequences. Additionally, we provide numerical calculations of a parametric study on the influence of the detection geometry on the angular distribution of the emitted γ -rays. Finally, we benchmark our simulation by comparing the simulation-estimated asymmetry ratios with those measured experimentally. The present simulation can be employed as a kernel of an implementation that simulates the nuclear resonance fluorescence process.
Deep Cerebellar Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation of the Dentate Nucleus to Facilitate Standing Balance in Chronic Stroke Survivors—A Pilot Study
Authors: Rezaee Zeynab , Kaura Surbhi , Solanki Dhaval , Dash Adyasha , Srivastava M V Padma , Lahiri Uttama , Dutta Anirban
Published: February 2020

Objective: Cerebrovascular accidents are the second leading cause of death and the third leading cause of disability worldwide. We hypothesized that cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (ctDCS) of the dentate nuclei and the lower-limb representations in the cerebellum can improve functional reach during standing balance in chronic (>6 months’ post-stroke) stroke survivors. Materials and Methods: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) based subject-specific electric field was computed across a convenience sample of 10 male chronic (>6 months) stroke survivors and one healthy MRI template to find an optimal bipolar bilateral ctDCS montage to target dentate nuclei and lower-limb representations (lobules VII–IX). Then, in a repeated-measure crossover study on a subset of 5 stroke survivors, we compared 15 min of 2 mA ctDCS based on the effects on successful functional reach (%) during standing balance task. Three-way ANOVA investigated the factors of interest– brain regions, montages, stroke participants, and their interactions. Results: “One-size-fits-all” bipolar ctDCS montage for the clinical study was found to be PO9h–PO10h for dentate nuclei and Exx7–Exx8 for lobules VII–IX with the contralesional anode. PO9h–PO10h ctDCS performed significantly (alpha = 0.05) better in facilitating successful functional reach (%) when compared to Exx7–Exx8 ctDCS. Furthermore, a linear relationship between successful functional reach (%) and electric field strength was found where PO9h–PO10h montage resulted in a significantly (alpha = 0.05) higher electric field strength when compared to Exx7–Exx8 montage for the same 2 mA current. Conclusion: We presented a rational neuroimaging based approach to optimize deep ctDCS of the dentate nuclei and lower limb representations in the cerebellum for post-stroke balance rehabilitation. However, this promising pilot study was limited by “one-size-fits-all” bipolar ctDCS montage as well as a small sample size.
Interconnection between Driving Style, Traffic Locus of Control, and Impulsivity in Bulgarian Drivers
Authors: Totkova Zornitsa
Published: February 2020

The need for research in the field of transport psychology in Bulgaria has become more tangible in recent years, due to both the increased public intolerance to aggressive driving and the very high number of injuries and fatalities in road accidents in the country. The main objective of this study is to investigate the interconnection between Driving style, Traffic locus of control, and the Impulsivity in Bulgarian drivers. A research is conducted in order to examine the relations between the constructs in Bulgarian sample (n = 456, male = 204; female = 252; average age = 37). The results show that there are significant correlations between impulsivity and all driving styles. Positive correlations were found with the maladaptive driving styles, while the adaptive driving style was negatively associated with impulsivity. Correlations between the traffic locus of control and the driving styles were also found. These results provide a very good opportunity for further research in this area as well as for the development of prevention and training programs in the field of road safety.
Photochemically-Induced Release of Lysosomal Sequestered Sunitinib: Obstacles for Therapeutic Efficacy
Authors: Wong Judith Jing Wen , Berstad Maria Brandal , Fremstedal Ane Sofie Viset , Berg Kristian , Patzke Sebastian , Sørensen Vigdis , Peng Qian , Selbo Pål Kristian , Weyergang Anette
Published: February 2020

Lysosomal accumulation of sunitinib has been suggested as an underlying mechanism of resistance. Here, we investigated if photochemical internalization (PCI), a technology for cytosolic release of drugs entrapped in endosomes and lysosomes, would activate lysosomal sequestered sunitinib. By super-resolution fluorescence microscopy, sunitinib was found to accumulate in the membrane of endo/lysosomal compartments together with the photosensitizer disulfonated tetraphenylchlorin (TPCS2a). Furthermore, the treatment effect was potentiated by PCI in the human HT-29 and the mouse CT26.WT colon cancer cell lines. The cytotoxic outcome of sunitinib-PCI was, however, highly dependent on the treatment protocol. Thus, neoadjuvant PCI inhibited lysosomal accumulation of sunitinib. PCI also inhibited lysosomal sequestering of sunitinib in HT29/SR cells with acquired sunitinib resistance, but did not reverse the resistance. The mechanism of acquired sunitinib resistance in HT29/SR cells was therefore not related to lysosomal sequestering. Sunitinib-PCI was further evaluated on HT-29 xenografts in athymic mice, but was found to induce only a minor effect on tumor growth delay. In immunocompetent mice sunitinib-PCI enhanced areas of treatment-induced necrosis compared to the monotherapy groups. However, the tumor growth was not delayed, and decreased infiltration of CD3-positive T cells was indicated as a possible mechanism behind the failed overall response.
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ Progression in Dog Model of Breast Cancer
Authors: Mohammed Sulma , Utturkar Sagar , Lee Maxwell , Yang Howard , Cui Zhibin , Atallah Lanman Nadia , Zhang GuangJun , Ramos Cardona Xavier , Mittal Suresh , Miller Margaret
Published: February 2020

The mechanisms that drive ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) progression to invasive cancer are not clear. Studying DCIS progression in humans is challenging and not ethical, thus necessitating the characterization of an animal model that faithfully resembles human disease. We have characterized a canine model of spontaneous mammary DCIS and invasive cancer that shares histologic, molecular, and diagnostic imaging characteristics with DCIS and invasive cancer in women. The purpose of the study was to identify markers and altered signaling pathways that lead to invasive cancer and shed light on early molecular events in breast cancer progression and development. Transcriptomic studies along the continuum of cancer progression in the mammary gland from healthy, through atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), DCIS, and invasive carcinoma were performed using the canine model. Gene expression profiles of preinvasive DCIS lesions closely resemble those of invasive carcinoma. However, certain genes, such as SFRP2, FZD2, STK31, and LALBA, were over-expressed in DCIS compared to invasive cancer. The over-representation of myoepithelial markers, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), canonical Wnt signaling components, and other pathways induced by Wnt family members distinguishes DCIS from invasive. The information gained may help in stratifying DCIS as well as identify actionable targets for primary and tertiary prevention or targeted therapy.
Ultrasonic-Assisted Michael Addition of Arylhalide to Activated Olefins Utilizing Nanosized CoMgAl-Layered Double Hydroxide Catalysts
Authors: Althabaiti Nada S. , Al-Nwaiser Fawzia M. , Saleh Tamer S. , Mokhtar Mohamed
Published: February 2020

An efficient cobalt-based layered double hydroxide (LDH)-catalyzed Michael addition of an aryl halide compound onto activated olefin as a Michael acceptor is described. The synthesized catalytic materials were characterized using different techniques to investigate their physicochemical, morphological, and textural properties. The partial isomorphic substitution of magnesium by cobalt ions in the cationic sheets of the layered double hydroxide (CoMgAl-LDH) appears to be an appropriate catalyst to cause this reaction. This technique enables compound synthesis resulting from the 1,4-addition in good to excellent yields. Moreover, ultrasound was found to have beneficial effect on this reaction due to the cavitation phenomenon.
The Improvement of Coralline-Like ZnGa2O4 by Cocatalysts for the Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Yang Jia , Sun Xiaorui , Yang Wanxi , Zhu Meixia , Shi Jianwei
Published: February 2020

To date, various methods have been used to synthesize ZnGa2O4 material to promote photodegradation performance. However, cocatalysts, which usually play a crucial role in the photocatalyst system, have not been studied extensively in photocatalytic degradation reactions. In this paper, ZnGa2O4 semiconducting material was synthesized by a traditional high-temperature solid-state reaction. The as-prepared powder was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and ultraviolet–visible diffused reflectance spectroscopy. The results indicate that the as-prepared sample is a highly crystallized granular sample with a bandgap of 4.44 eV and a uniform particle size distribution. Density functional theory (DFT) was utilized to calculate the electronic structure of ZnGa2O4. The valence bands and conduction bands were chiefly composed of O 2p atomic orbitals and the hybridization orbitals of Ga 4s4p and Zn4s4p, respectively. The photocatalytic performance was tested via the decomposition of rhodamine B (RhB) under the irradiation of ultraviolet light. Cu, Ag, Au, Ni, Pt, and Pd cocatalysts were loaded on the ZnGa2O4 photocatalyst by a photodeposition method. The relatively optimal cocatalyst of ZnGa2O4 in the photocatalytic degradation reaction is Au. Thereafter, the effect of loading different usage amounts of the Au cocatalyst for the photodegradation of the ZnGa2O4 photocatalyst was studied in detail. The experimental results displayed that the optimum photodegradation activity was confirmed with the 3 wt% Au/ZnGa2O4 sample, which was 14.1 times more than the unloaded photocatalyst. The maximum photocatalytic degradation ratio of RhB was 96.7%, with 180 min under ultraviolet light.
Probing Carbon Utilization of Cordyceps militaris by Sugar Transportome and Protein Structural Analysis
Authors: Sirithep Kanokwadee , Xiao Fei , Raethong Nachon , Zhang Yuhan , Laoteng Kobkul , Hu Guang , Vongsangnak Wanwipa
Published: February 2020

Beyond comparative genomics, we identified 85 sugar transporter genes in Cordyceps militaris, clustering into nine subfamilies as sequence- and phylogenetic-based functional classification, presuming the versatile capability of the fungal growths on a range of sugars. Further analysis of the global gene expression patterns of C. militaris showed 123 genes were significantly expressed across the sucrose, glucose, and xylose cultures. The sugar transporters specific for pentose were then identified by gene-set enrichment analysis. Of them, the putative pentose transporter, CCM_06358 gene, was highest expressed in the xylose culture, and its functional role in xylose transport was discovered by the analysis of conserved structural motifs. In addition, a battery of molecular modeling methods, including homology modeling, transport pathway analysis, residue interaction network combined with molecular mechanics Poisson–Boltzmann surface area simulation (MM-PBSA), was implemented for probing the structure and function of the selected pentose transporter (CCM_06358) as a representative of sugar transportome in C. militaris. Considering the network bottlenecks and structural organizations, we further identified key amino acids (Phe38 and Trp441) and their interactions with other residues, contributing the xylose transport function, as verified by binding free energy calculation. The strategy used herein generated remarkably valuable biological information, which is applicable for the study of sugar transportome and the structure engineering of targeted transporter proteins that might link to the production of bioactive compounds derived from xylose metabolism, such as cordycepin.
Tumor Necrosis Factor-Like Weak Inducer of Apoptosis (TWEAK)/Fibroblast Growth Factor-Inducible 14 (Fn14) Axis in Cardiovascular Diseases: Progress and Challenges
Authors: Méndez-Barbero Nerea , Gutiérrez-Muñoz Carmen , Blázquez-Serra Rafael , Martín-Ventura Jose , Blanco-Colio Luis
Published: February 2020

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of mortality in Western countries. CVD include several pathologies, such as coronary artery disease, stroke, peripheral artery disease, and aortic aneurysm, among others. All of them are characterized by a pathological vascular remodeling in which inflammation plays a key role. Interaction between different members of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily and their cognate receptors induce several biological actions that may participate in CVD. The cytokine tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) and its functional receptor, fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14), are abundantly expressed during pathological cardiovascular remodeling. The TWEAK/Fn14 axis controls a variety of cellular functions, such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, and has several biological functions, such as inflammation and fibrosis that are linked to CVD. It has been demonstrated that persistent TWEAK/Fn14 activation is involved in both vessel and heart remodeling associated with acute and chronic CVD. In this review, we summarized the role of the TWEAK/Fn14 axis during pathological cardiovascular remodeling, highlighting the cellular components and the signaling pathways that are involved in these processes.
Long-Term Survival of Transplanted Autologous Canine Liver Organoids in a COMMD1-Deficient Dog Model of Metabolic Liver Disease
Authors: Kruitwagen Hedwig S. , Oosterhoff Loes A. , van Wolferen Monique E. , Chen Chen , Nantasanti Assawarachan Sathidpak , Schneeberger Kerstin , Kummeling Anne , van Straten Giora , Akkerdaas Ies C. , Vinke Christel R. , van Steenbeek Frank G. , van Bruggen Leonie W.L. , Wolfswinkel Jeannette , Grinwis Guy C.M. , Fuchs Sabine A. , Gehart Helmuth , Geijsen Niels , Vries Robert G. , Clevers Hans , Rothuizen Jan , Schotanus Baukje A. , Penning Louis C. , Spee Bart
Published: February 2020

The shortage of liver organ donors is increasing and the need for viable alternatives is urgent. Liver cell (hepatocyte) transplantation may be a less invasive treatment compared with liver transplantation. Unfortunately, hepatocytes cannot be expanded in vitro, and allogenic cell transplantation requires long-term immunosuppression. Organoid-derived adult liver stem cells can be cultured indefinitely to create sufficient cell numbers for transplantation, and they are amenable to gene correction. This study provides preclinical proof of concept of the potential of cell transplantation in a large animal model of inherited copper toxicosis, such as Wilson’s disease, a Mendelian disorder that causes toxic copper accumulation in the liver. Hepatic progenitors from five COMMD1-deficient dogs were isolated and cultured using the 3D organoid culture system. After genetic restoration of COMMD1 expression, the organoid-derived hepatocyte-like cells were safely delivered as repeated autologous transplantations via the portal vein. Although engraftment and repopulation percentages were low, the cells survived in the liver for up to two years post-transplantation. The low engraftment was in line with a lack of functional recovery regarding copper excretion. This preclinical study confirms the survival of genetically corrected autologous organoid-derived hepatocyte-like cells in vivo and warrants further optimization of organoid engraftment and functional recovery in a large animal model of human liver disease.
Astrocyte Infection during Rabies Encephalitis Depends on the Virus Strain and Infection Route as Demonstrated by Novel Quantitative 3D Analysis of Cell Tropism
Authors: Potratz Madlin , Zaeck Luca , Christen Michael , te Kamp Verena , Klein Antonia , Nolden Tobias , Freuling Conrad M. , Müller Thomas , Finke Stefan
Published: February 2020

Although conventional immunohistochemistry for neurotropic rabies virus (RABV) usually shows high preference for neurons, non-neuronal cells are also potential targets, and abortive astrocyte infection is considered a main trigger of innate immunity in the CNS. While in vitro studies indicated differences between field and less virulent lab-adapted RABVs, a systematic, quantitative comparison of astrocyte tropism in vivo is lacking. Here, solvent-based tissue clearing was used to measure RABV cell tropism in infected brains. Immunofluorescence analysis of 1 mm-thick tissue slices enabled 3D-segmentation and quantification of astrocyte and neuron infection frequencies. Comparison of three highly virulent field virus clones from fox, dog, and raccoon with three lab-adapted strains revealed remarkable differences in the ability to infect astrocytes in vivo. While all viruses and infection routes led to neuron infection frequencies between 7–19%, striking differences appeared for astrocytes. Whereas astrocyte infection by field viruses was detected independent of the inoculation route (8–27%), only one lab-adapted strain infected astrocytes route-dependently [0% after intramuscular (i.m.) and 13% after intracerebral (i.c.) inoculation]. Two lab-adapted vaccine viruses lacked astrocyte infection altogether (0%, i.c. and i.m.). This suggests a model in which the ability to establish productive astrocyte infection in vivo functionally distinguishes field and attenuated lab RABV strains.
Paracrine Signaling from Breast Cancer Cells Causes Activation of ID4 Expression in Tumor-Associated Macrophages
Authors: Donzelli Sara , Sacconi Andrea , Turco Chiara , Gallo Enzo , Milano Elisa , Iosue Ilaria , Blandino Giovanni , Fazi Francesco , Fontemaggi Giulia
Published: February 2020

Background: Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) constitute a major portion of the leukocyte infiltrate found in breast cancer (BC). BC cells may reprogram TAMs in a pro-angiogenic and immunosuppressive sense. We previously showed that high expression of the ID4 protein in triple-negative BC cells leads to the induction of a proangiogenic program in TAMs also through the downregulation of miR-107. Here, we investigated the expression and function of the ID4 protein in TAMs. Methods: Human macrophages obtained from peripheral blood-derived monocytes (PBDM) and mouse RAW264.7 cells were used as macrophage experimental systems. ID4-correlated mRNAs of the TCGA and E-GEOD-18295 datasets were analyzed. Results: We observed that BC cells determine a paracrine induction of ID4 expression and activation of the ID4 promoter in neighboring macrophages. Interestingly, ID4 expression is higher in macrophages associated with invasive tumor cells compared to general TAMs, and ID4-correlated mRNAs are involved in various pathways that were previously reported as relevant for TAM functions. Selective depletion of ID4 expression in macrophages enabled validation of the ability of ID4 to control the expression of YAP1 and of its downstream targets CTGF and CYR61. Conclusion: Collectively, our results show that activation of ID4 expression in TAMs is observed as a consequence of BC cell paracrine activity and could participate in macrophage reprogramming in BC.
New and Emerging Targeted Therapies for Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
Authors: Chen Jing , Glasser Chana
Published: February 2020

The relapse rate for children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains high despite advancements in risk classification, multi-agent chemotherapy intensification, stem cell transplantation, and supportive care guidelines. Prognosis for this subgroup of children with relapsed/refractory AML remains poor. It is well known that the ceiling of chemotherapy intensification has been reached, limited by acute and chronic toxicity, necessitating alternative treatment approaches. In the last several years, our improved understanding of disease biology and critical molecular pathways in AML has yielded a variety of new drugs to target these specific pathways. This review provides a summary of antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), small molecule inhibitors, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors with an emphasis on those that are currently under clinical evaluation or soon to open in early phase trials for children with relapsed/refractory AML.
The Effect of Plasma Electron Temperature on the Surface Properties of Super-Hydrophobic Cotton Fabrics
Authors: Xu Liyun , Lai Yuling , Liu Liu , Yang Lili , Guo Ying , Chang Xijiang , Shi Jianjun , Zhang Ruiyun , Yu Jianyong
Published: February 2020

The existing coating systems used for the preparation of super-hydrophobic surfaces are facing new challenges because the use of organic solvents and long-carbon-chain organic fluorine monomers is banned. In this article, the authors have proven that by using inductively coupled plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) with argon (Ar), which is a completely dry process, lauryl methacrylate (LMA) can produce a stable super-hydrophobic coating effect. The effect of electron temperature on the super-hydrophobicity of cotton fabrics is investigated in terms of water repellency, chemical composition, and surface morphology. It is found that the improvement in the hydrophobicity of cotton fabric is attributed to the deposition of alkyl and ester groups, and the formation of a micro–nano-structure on the surface of the fabric after plasma treatment. The electron temperature plays an important role in achieving the super-hydrophobicity of cotton fabrics. The plasma-enhanced coating may offer a safe and dry super-hydrophobic technique with diverse applications.
Evaluation of Pavement Skid Resistance Using Surface Three-Dimensional Texture Data
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Lai Xingyu , Zhou Fei , Xue Jinshun
Published: February 2020

Pavement skid resistance is an important guarantee for driving safety. However, it is very difficult to determine the exact friction in a field environment. In order to overcome the limitations of traditional evaluation methods, the effect mechanism of surface 3D (three-dimensional) texture on skid resistance was firstly analyzed. Then the surface 3D texture of pavement was acquired through an improved binocular reconstruction method. Additionally, the relationship between friction coefficient and 3D texture was also analyzed. Subsequently, under the concept of IFI (international friction index) used to harmonize different detection methods of skid resistance, the evaluation model of skid resistance based 3D texture was further established. The results showed that the multiple quadratic multinomial regression model can well describe the relationship between skid resistance and texture indicators. The establishment of an improved evaluation model is simple to operate and implement. It can directly evaluate the skid resistance on pavement surface once the aggregates’ type and 3D texture are known. This evaluation model not only overcomes the challenges of friction coefficient with a strong conditional restriction, but also provides a harmonious approach for different detection methods in the evaluation of pavement skid resistance.
Experimental Investigations on the Performances of Composite Building Materials Based on Industrial Crops and Volcanic Rocks
Authors: Iștoan Raluca , Tămaș-Gavrea Daniela Roxana , Manea Daniela Lucia
Published: February 2020

Interdisciplinary and sustainability represent the main characteristics of this paper due to the fact that this research is offering a connection between two main areas—agronomy and construction, by using hemp shiv for the design of new building materials, which can increase the sustainability level of the building industry. For this reason, the main scope of this study is based on the investigation of a new category of composite building materials—lightweight mortars based on hemp shiv, volcanic rocks and white cement—which contribute to a positive environmental impact and help to increase indoor comfort. A complex report was carried out on two segments. The first one is focused upon the characteristics of the raw materials from the composition of the new materials, while the second segment presents a detailed analysis of these composites including morphological and chemical investigation, pyrolytic and fire behavior, compression and flexural strengths, and acoustic and thermal characteristics. The proposed recipes have as a variable volcanic rocks, while the hemp and the binder maintain their volumes and properties. The results were analyzed according to the influence of volcanic rocks on the new composites.