bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe neonatal anemia increases intestinal permeability by disrupting epithelial adherens junctions
Authors: MohanKumar Krishnan , Namachivayam Kopperuncholan , Sivakumar Nithya , Alves Natascha G. , Sidhaye Venkataramana , Das Jayanta K. , Chung Yerin , Breslin Jerome W. , Maheshwari Akhil
Published: February 2020

Anemia is a frequent diagnosis in critically ill infants, but the clinical implications of severe anemia in these patients remain unclear. In this study, we examined preweaned mice to investigate the effects of severe anemia during early infancy on gut mucosal permeability. C57BL/6 mice were subjected to timed phlebotomy between postnatal days (P) 2–10 to induce severe anemia (hematocrits 20%–24%), and intestinal permeability was tracked longitudinally between P10 and P20 as intestine-to-plasma translocation of enteral macromolecules and bacterial translocation. Epithelial junctions were evaluated by electron microscopy, polymerase chain reactions, immunohistochemistry, and/or enzyme immunoassays on intestinal tissues, Caco-2 intestinal epithelial-like cells, and colonic organoids. Preweaned mouse pups showed an age-related susceptibility to severe anemia, with increased intestinal permeability to enteral macromolecules (dextran, ovalbumin, β-lactoglobulin) and luminal bacteria. Electron micrographs showed increased paracellular permeability and ultrastructural abnormalities of the adherens junctions. These findings were explained by the loss of E-cadherin in epithelial cells, which was caused by destabilization of the E-cadherin ( Cdh1) mRNA because of microRNA let-7e-5p binding to the 3′-untranslated region. Severe anemia resulted in a disproportionate and persistent increase in intestinal permeability in preweaned mice because of the disruption of epithelial adherens junctions. These changes are mediated via microRNA let-7e-mediated depletion of Cdh1 mRNA.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This research article shows that newborn infants with severe anemia show an age-related susceptibility to developing increased intestinal permeability to ingested macromolecules. This abnormal permeability develops because of abnormalities in intestinal epithelial junctions caused by a deficiency of the molecule E-cadherin in epithelial cells. The deficiency of E-cadherin is caused by destabilization of its mRNA precursor because of increased expression and binding of another molecule, the microRNA let-7e-5p, to the E-cadherin mRNA.
Aging-related liver degeneration is associated with increased bacterial endotoxin and lipopolysaccharide binding protein levels
Authors: Jin Cheng Jun , Baumann Anja , Brandt Annette , Engstler Anna Janina , Nier Anika , Hege Marianne , Schmeer Christian , Kehm Richard , Höhn Annika , Grune Tilman , Witte Otto W. , Bergheim Ina
Published: February 2020

Aging is a risk factor in the development of many diseases, including liver-related diseases. The two aims of the present study were 1) to determine how aging affects liver health in mice in the absence of any interventions and 2) if degenerations observed in relation to blood endotoxin levels are critical in aging-associated liver degeneration. Endotoxin levels and markers of liver damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, insulin resistance, and apoptosis as well as the Toll-like receptor 4 (Tlr-4) signaling cascade were studied in liver tissue and blood, respectively, of 3- and 24-mo-old male C57BL/6J mice. In a second set of experiments, 3- to 4-mo-old and 14-mo-old female lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP)−/− mice and littermates fed standard chow, markers of liver damage, insulin resistance, and mitochondrial dysfunction were assessed. Plasma activity of aspartate aminotransferase and histological signs of hepatic inflammation and fibrosis were significantly higher in old C57BL/6J mice than in young animals. The number of neutrophils, CD8α-positive cells, and mRNA expression of markers of apoptosis were also significantly higher in livers of old C57BL/6J mice compared with young animals, being also associated with a significant induction of hepatic Tlr-4 and LBP expression as well as higher endotoxin levels in peripheral blood. Compared with age-matched littermates, LBP−/− mice display less signs of senescence in liver. Taken together, our data suggest that, despite being fed standard chow, old mice developed liver inflammation and beginning fibrosis and that bacterial endotoxin may play a critical role herein.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Old age in mice is associated with marked signs of liver degeneration, hepatic inflammation, and fibrosis. Aging-associated liver degeneration is associated with elevated bacterial endotoxin levels and an induction of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) and Toll-like receptor 4-dependent signaling cascades in liver tissue. Furthermore, in old aged LBP−/− mice, markers of senescence seem to be lessened, supporting the hypothesis that bacterial endotoxin levels might be critical in aging-associated decline of liver.
Genetic ablation of bone marrow beta-adrenergic receptors in mice modulates miRNA-transcriptome networks of neuroinflammation in the paraventricular nucleus
Authors: Martyniuk Christopher J. , Martínez Ruben , Kostyniuk Daniel J. , Mennigen Jan A. , Zubcevic Jasenka
Published: February 2020

Elucidating molecular pathways regulating neuroimmune communication is critical for therapeutic interventions in conditions characterized by overactive immune responses and dysfunctional autonomic nervous system. We generated a bone marrow-specific adrenergic beta 1 and beta 2 knockout mouse chimera (AdrB1.B2 KO) to determine how sympathetic drive to the bone affects transcripts and miRNAs in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN). This model has previously exhibited a dampened systemic immune response and decreased blood pressure compared with control animals. Reduced sympathetic responsiveness of the bone marrow hematopoietic cells of AdrB1.B2 KO chimera led to suppression of transcriptional networks that included leukocyte cell adhesion and migration and T cell-activation and recruitment. Transcriptome responses related to IL-17a signaling and the renin-angiotensin system were also suppressed in the PVN. Based on the transcriptome response, we next computationally predicted miRNAs in the PVN that may underscore the reduced sympathetic responsiveness of the bone marrow cells. These included miR-27b-3p, miR-150, miR-223-3p, and miR-326. Using real-time PCR, we measured a downregulation in the expression of miR-150-5p, miR-205-5p, miR-223-3p, miR-375-5p, miR-499a-5p, miR-27b-3p, let-7a-5p, and miR-21a-5p in the PVN of AdrB1.B2 KO chimera, confirming computational predictions that these miRNAs are associated with reduced neuro-immune responses and the loss of sympathetic responsiveness in the bone marrow. Intriguingly, directional responses of the miRNA corresponded to mRNAs, suggesting complex temporal or circuit-dependent posttranscriptional control of gene expression in the PVN. This study identifies molecular pathways involved in neural-immune interactions that may act as targets of therapeutic intervention for a dysfunctional autonomic nervous system.
Ocular Surface Disease Index and Ocular Thermography in Keratoconus Patients
Authors: Németh Orsolya , Langenbucher Achim , Eppig Timo , Lepper Sabine , Milioti Georgia , Abdin Aladin , Nagy Zoltán Zsolt , Seitz Berthold , Szentmáry Nóra
Published: February 2020

Purpose. Keratoconus (KC) has been defined as a “noninflammatory” corneal disease, but recent studies have noted a potential inflammatory origin. We analysed the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and ocular surface temperature (OST) in KC patients compared to controls.Patients and Methods. A total of 179 eyes in 90 patients with KC (topographic keratoconus classification 0-1 to 4, age 36.1 ± 12.5 years, 65.9% males) and 82 eyes in 41 controls (age 36.4 ± 12.8 years, 47.6% males) were examined. The participants completed the OSDI questionnaire and underwent corneal topography, tomography, and thermography. Additional outcome measures were vision- and discomfort-related OSDI subscores and mean OST  at the corneal centre during 10 seconds of sustained eye opening after blinking.Results. The OSDI score (31.4 ± 22.4 vs. 17.5 ± 17.9) and vision- (17.7 ± 14.6 vs. 10.5 ± 13.2) and discomfort-related (14.3 ± 10.7 vs. 9.4 ± 10.5) OSDI subscores were significantly higher in KC patients than in controls (p<0.001). We found no significant difference in the central corneal OST (34.2 ± 0.6°C vs. 34.2 ± 0.7°C;p=0.41) between the two groups (p≥0.22). The OSDI score and subscores poorly to fairly correlated with the surface asymmetry index (SAI) and surface regularity index (SRI;r > 0.174,p<0.005), but did not correlate with the central corneal OST (r < 0.001). OST  also did not correlate with the SAI, SRI, and central corneal thickness (r ≥ −0.086).Conclusion. KC patients had increased OSDI scores and vision- and discomfort-related OSDI subscores without an increase in the OST compared to a normal population. OSDI score/subscores weakly correlate with SAI and SRI but do not correlate with OST in KC patients or controls. Vision- and discomfort-related symptoms of KC have to be managed in parallel in ophthalmological practice, but the necessity of anti-inflammatory treatment cannot be verified through ocular thermography.
Association of EPAS1 and PPARA Gene Polymorphisms with High‐Altitude Headache in Chinese Han Population
Authors: Shen Yang , Zhang Jihang , Yang Jie , Liu Chuan , Bian Shizhu , Zhang Chen , Yu Jie , Gao Xubin , Huang Lan
Published: February 2020

Background. High‐altitude headache (HAH) is the most common complication after high‐altitude exposure. Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐ (HIF‐) related genes have been confirmed to contribute to high‐altitude acclimatization. We aim to investigate a possible association between HIF‐related genes and HAH in the Chinese Han population. Methods. In total, 580 healthy Chinese Han volunteers were recruited in Chengdu (500 m) and carried to Lhasa (3700 m) by plane in 2 hours. HAH scores and basic physiological parameters were collected within 18–24 hours after the arrival. Thirty‐five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in HIF‐related genes were genotyped, and linkage disequilibrium (LD) was evaluated by Haploview software. The functions of SNPs/haplotypes for HAH were developed by using logistic regression analysis. Results. In comparison with wild types, the rs4953354 “G” allele (P = 0.013), rs6756667 “A” allele (P = 0.036) in EPAS1, and rs6520015 “C” allele in PPARA (P = 0.009) were significantly associated with decreased risk of HAH. The rs7292407‐rs6520015 haplotype “C‐C” in PPARA was identified as a protective factor (P = 0.030). Importantly, EPAS1 and PPARA genes have synergistic effects in decreasing HAH risk (P = 0.003). Conclusions. EPAS1 and PPARA polymorphisms were associated with HAH in the Chinese Han population. Our findings pointed out potentially predictive gene markers, provided new insights into understanding pathogenesis, and may further provide prophylaxis and treatment strategies for HAH.
Case Study: In Situ Experimental Investigation on Overburden Consolidation Grouting for Columnar Jointed Basalt Dam Foundation
Authors: Dou Jinxi , Zhou Mengxia , Wang Zhilin , Wang Kexiang , Yuan Shui , Jiang Mingqiang , Zhang Guijin
Published: February 2020

The dam foundation rock mass, at the Baihetan hydropower station on the Jinsha River, is mainly columnar jointed basalt, with faults and fissures developed. Considering adverse factors such as the unloading relaxation or the opening of the fissures due to excavation blasting, consolidation grouting is needed to improve the integrity of the dam foundation rock mass. According to the physical and mechanical properties of columnar jointed basalt and the continuity of construction, the effectiveness of overburden consolidation grouting is experimentally studied. The results show that this grouting technology can obviously improve the integrity and uniformity of a dam foundation rock mass and reduce the permeability of the rock mass. After grouting, the average increase in the wave velocity of the rock mass is 7.3%. The average improvement in the deformation modulus after grouting is 13.5%. After grouting, the permeability of 99% of the inspection holes in the Lugeon test section had Lugeon values of no more than 3 LU. This improvement is considerable and provides a case to engineering application.
Deconfinement and Freezeout Boundaries in Equilibrium Thermal Models
Authors: Tawfik Abdel Nasser , Maher Muhammad , El-Kateb A. H. , Abdelaziz Sara
Published: February 2020

In different approaches, the temperature-baryon density plane of QCD matter is studied for deconfinement and chemical freezeout boundaries. Results from various heavy-ion experiments are compared with the recent lattice simulations, the effective QCD-like Polyakov linear-sigma model, and the equilibrium thermal models. Along the entire freezeout boundary, there is an excellent agreement between the thermal model calculations and the experiments. Also, the thermal model calculations agree well with the estimations deduced from the Polyakov linear-sigma model (PLSM). At low baryonic density or high energies, both deconfinement and chemical freezeout boundaries are likely coincident, and therefore, the agreement with the lattice simulations becomes excellent as well, while at large baryonic density, the two boundaries become distinguishable forming a phase where hadrons and quark-gluon plasma likely coexist.
Fractal Characteristics of Porosity of Electrospun Nanofiber Membranes
Authors: Wang Ting , Chen Ying , Dong Wenxia , Liu Yong , Shi Luoyi , Chen Rudong , Pan Tiandi
Published: February 2020

In this paper, the method of measuring the porosity of electrostatic nanofiber membrane by VC++ and Matlab is introduced. It is found that the ratio of the calculated porosity to the porosity measured by the mercury intrusion method accords with the famous Feigenbaum constant (α=2.5029078750957⋯). The porosity distribution of nanofiber membranes was studied by VC++ and Matlab based on the image obtained by using a scanning electron microscope. The porosity distribution calculated by using a computer is magnified by eα times which was named as relative porosity distribution. According to the relative porosity distribution, we use the algorithm proposed by Grassberger and Procaccia (briefly referred to as the G-P algorithm) to calculate the correlation fractal dimension. The correlation fractal dimension calculated from the relative porosity distribution series was between 1 and 2, consistent with geometric characteristics of coincidence samples. The fractal meaning of the Feigenbaum constant was verified again. In the end, we obtained the relationship between the associated fractal dimension and the filtration resistance by fitting in accordance with the secondary function relationship and reached the maximum correlation fractal dimension when the filtration resistance was 15–20 pa.
Hybrid ARIMA and Neural Network Modelling Applied to Telecommunications in Urban Environments in the Amazon Region
Authors: Fraiha Lopes Ramz L. , Fraiha Simone G. C. , Lima Vinicius D. , Gomes Herminio S. , Cavalcante Gervásio P. S.
Published: February 2020

This study explores the use of a hybrid Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) and Neural Network modelling for estimates of the electric field along vertical paths (buildings) close to Digital Television (DTV) transmitters. The work was carried out in Belém city, one of the most urbanized cities in the Brazilian Amazon and includes a case study of the application of this modelling within the subscenarios found in Belém. Its results were compared with the ITU recommendations P. 1546-5 and proved to be better in every subscenario analysed. In the worst case, the estimate of the model was approximately 65% better than that of the ITU. We also compared this modelling with a classic modelling technique: the Least Squares (LS) method. In most situations, the hybrid model achieved better results than the LS.
Primary Aldosteronism Associated with Multiple Adrenocortical Micronodules in a Patient with Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Oba Kazuhito , Chiba Yuko , Matsuda Yoko , Kumakawa Takeshi , Aoyama Rie , Akahoshi Miho , Hashimoto Seiji , Tachibana Aya , Toyoshima Koichi , Kodera Remi , Toyoshima Kenji , Tamura Yoshiaki , Nagata Takashi , Yamazaki Yuto , Sasano Hironobu , Araki Atsushi
Published: February 2020

A 47-year-old woman with a history of diabetes mellitus (DM) and obesity was admitted to our hospital for glucose control. She was detected to have hypertension (HT) and diagnosed with primary aldosteronism (PA) based on the high level of aldosterone to renin ratio and the results of the upright furosemide-loading test according to the criteria of the Japanese Society of Hypertension (JSH) guidelines. Computed tomography revealed left renal tumor and adrenocortical adenoma. She underwent left nephrectomy and adrenalectomy. The pathological findings were clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and nonfunctional adrenocortical adenoma. Her nonneoplastic adrenal tissue histologically revealed CYP11B2-positive multiple adrenocortical micronodules (MNs) and concomitant paradoxical hyperplasia of the zona glomerulosa. Therefore, MNs were thought to be responsible for PA in this patient. After surgery, HT was improved, and the result of upright furosemide-loading test after 12 months of surgery did not fulfill the criteria of PA according to the JSH guidelines. However, the adrenocorticotrophic hormone stimulation test was positive; considering the possibility of slight aldosterone overproduction from the right adrenal gland, the administration of spironolactone was started. Herein, we report a rare case of RCC in conjunction with PA histologically associated with MNs.
The Conformal Finite-Difference Time-Domain Simulation of GPR Wave Propagation in Complex Geoelectric Structures
Authors: Yang Man , Fang Hongyuan , Chen Dazhong , Du Xueming , Wang Fuming
Published: February 2020

The finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method adopts the most popular numerical model simulating ground penetrating radar (GPR) wave propagation in an underground structure. However, a staircase approximation method is usually adopted to simulate the curved boundary of an irregular object in the FDTD and symplectic partitioned Runge-Kutta (SPRK) methods. The approximate processing of rectangular mesh parameters will result in calculation errors and virtual surface waves for irregular targets of an underground structure. In this paper, we examine transverse mode (TM) electromagnetic waves with numerical models of electromagnetic wave propagation in geoelectric structures with conformal finite-difference time-domain (CFDTD) method technology in which the effective dielectric parameters are used to accurately simulate the dielectric surface and to absorb waves at the edges of the grid. The third orders of the transmission boundary are used in this paper. Additionally, three complex geocentric models of inclined layered media, spherical media, and three-layered pavement model with structural damages are set up for simulation calculations, then we carry out the actual radar wave detection in a laboratory as the fourth numerical example. Comparison of simulated reflectance waveform of FDTD, symplectic partitioned Runge-Kutta (SPRK), and CFDTD methods shows that at least 50% of the virtual waves can be reduced by using the proposed algorithm. Wiggle diagrams of FDTD and CFDTD methods show that much of the virtual waves have been reduced, and the radar image is clearer than before. This provides a method for the detection of complex geoelectric and layered structures in actual engineering.
Assessment of Major Causes of Calf Mortality in Urban and Periurban Dairy Production System of Ethiopia
Authors: Fentie Tsegaw , Guta Sintayehu , Mekonen Gebreyes , Temesgen Wudu , Melaku Achenef , Asefa Getachew , Tesfaye Shimelis , Niguse Ayalew , Abera Bosenu , Kflewahd Fikre Zeru , Hailu Birhanu , Begna Feyissa , Worku Zemene
Published: February 2020

A cross-sectional calf mortality study was conducted in urban and periurban dairy farms in Addis Ababa, special zones of Oromia and Amhara regions in July and August 2015. The objectives of the study were to estimate the annual mortality and to assess the major causes of calf mortality in the dairy farms. One-year retrospective data on calf mortality were collected from 330 farms by face-to-face interview using the pretested and structured questionnaire format and direct observation of farm practices. A logistic regression analysis was performed in order to identify the predictor variables associated with early calf mortality. Data were analysed using Statistical Package, Stata SE for Windows, version 12.0. The annual mean calf mortality from birth-to-weaning was reported as 18.5% (95% CI: 12.6, 24.3%). The prenatal loss due to fetal death and stillbirth was 10.1% (95% CI: 6.7, 13.6%). The overall annual loss due to fetal death and calf preweaning mortality was 26.7% (95% CI: 21.2, 32.2%). Age-specific mortality declined with increased age, and the highest mortality was recorded during the first month of life extending up to the third month of age. Disease was the most important causes of calf mortality (73.2%). Among the diseases, diarrhea (63%) and respiratory disorders (17%) were the important causes of calf mortality. Malpractices in calf management were identified, including restricted colostrum and milk feeding, poor care and supplemental feeding, and poor health management. Interventions in dairy cattle health and farm husbandry are recommended to control calf mortality.
Efficient Coverage Hole Detection Algorithm Based on the Simplified Rips Complex in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Jing , Chu Han , Feng Xin
Published: February 2020

The appearance of coverage holes in the network leads to transmission links being disconnected, thereby resulting in decreasing the accuracy of data. Timely detection of the coverage holes can effectively improve the quality of network service. Compared with other coverage hole detection algorithms, the algorithms based on the Rips complex have advantages of high detection accuracy without node location information, but with high complexity. This paper proposes an efficient coverage hole detection algorithm based on the simplified Rips complex to solve the problem of high complexity. First, Turan’s theorem is combined with the concept of the degree and clustering coefficient in a complex network to classify the nodes; furthermore, redundant node determination rules are designed to sleep redundant nodes. Second, according to the concept of the complete graph, redundant edge deletion rules are designed to delete redundant edges. On the basis of the above two steps, the Rips complex is simplified efficiently. Finally, from the perspective of the loop, boundary loop filtering and reduction rules are designed to achieve coverage hole detection in wireless sensor networks. Compared with the HBA and tree-based coverage hole detection algorithm, simulation results show that the proposed hole detection algorithm has lower complexity and higher accuracy and the detection accuracy of the hole area is up to 99.03%.
Pressure Transient Analysis for a Horizontal Well in Heterogeneous Carbonate Reservoirs Using a Linear Composite Model
Authors: Duan Yong-Gang , Ren Ke-Yi , Fang Quan-Tang , Wei Ming-Qiang , Dejam Morteza , Chen Wei-Hua
Published: February 2020

Carbonate reservoirs usually have strong anisotropy. Oil and gas recovery from fractured reservoirs is highly challenging due to complicated mechanisms involved in production from these reservoirs. A horizontal well completed in these reservoirs may extend through multiple zones, including homogeneous, dual-porosity, and triple-porosity formations. Traditional well test models assume that the entire length of a horizontal or multilateral well remains in the same formation with uniform properties. A well test model for pressure transient analysis of horizontal wells extending through a carbonate reservoir consisting of natural fractures, rock matrix, and vugs with different properties is presented in this study. The focus of this study is on dual-porosity (fracture-matrix) and triple-porosity (fracture-matrix-vug) reservoirs, considering the pseudosteady interporosity flows from rock matrix and vugs into fractures. A multizone triple-porosity model was established and solved by using the point source function, Green’s function, and coupling of multiple reservoir sections. The corresponding type curves were developed, and sensitivity analysis was carried out. The type curves of flow stage division reveal that a horizontal well traversing a three-section reservoir including homogeneous, dual-porosity (fracture-matrix)/triple-porosity (fracture-vug-matrix), and homogeneous sections identifies the stages of pseudosteady interporosity flow from matrix and vug into fracture, fracture pseudoradial flow, system linear flow, system pseudoradial flow, and pseudosteady flow occur in sequence. The greater the difference of permeability between the dual-porosity/triple-porosity section and the two homogeneous sections, the more obvious the interporosity flow on the pressure derivative curve. This approach satisfies the need for pressure transient analysis for a horizontal well that traverses two or more regions with distinct properties in heterogeneous carbonate reservoirs.
Concrete Creep Analysis Method Based on a Long‐Term Test of Prestressed Concrete Beam
Authors: Yang Mingfang , Jin Song , Gong Jinxin
Published: February 2020

Concrete creep plays a significant role in the long‐term performance of the prestressed concrete structure. However, most of the existing prediction models cannot accurately reflect the in‐site concrete creep in a bridge construction environment. To improve the prediction accuracy of creep effects in concrete structures, an innovative creep analysis method is developed in this study. Parameters in the creep model in fib MC 2010 have been calibrated with respect to the long‐term loading test results of the prestressed concrete beam. The measured strains of concrete and the midspan deflections of the test beam are compared with the predicted results using the creep model in fib MC 2010. It indicates that the results predicted by the calibrated creep model are in good agreement with the test results. However, the results predicted by the creep model in fib MC 2010 significantly deviate from the test results. This proposed creep analysis method can provide a new thought to improve the predicted effect of the creep effects on creep‐sensitive structures.
The Dual Role of the Liver in Nanomedicine as an Actor in the Elimination of Nanostructures or a Therapeutic Target
Authors: Baboci Lorena , Capolla Sara , Di Cintio Federica , Colombo Federico , Mauro Prisca , Dal Bo Michele , Argenziano Monica , Cavalli Roberta , Toffoli Giuseppe , Macor Paolo
Published: February 2020

The development of nanostructures for therapeutic purpose is rapidly growing, following the results obtained in vivo in animal models and in the clinical trials. Unfortunately, the potential therapeutic efficacy is not completely exploited, yet. This is mainly due to the fast clearance of the nanostructures in the body. Nanoparticles and the liver have a unique interaction because the liver represents one of the major barriers for drug delivery. This interaction becomes even more relevant and complex when the drug delivery strategies employing nanostructures are proposed for the therapy of liver diseases, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this case, the selective delivery of therapeutic nanoparticles to the tumor microenvironment collides with the tendency of nanostructures to be quickly eliminated by the organ. The design of a new therapeutic approach based on nanoparticles to treat HCC has to particularly take into consideration passive and active mechanisms to avoid or delay liver elimination and to specifically address cancer cells or the cancer microenvironment. This review will analyze the different aspects concerning the dual role of the liver, both as an organ carrying out a clearance activity for the nanostructures and as target for therapeutic strategies for HCC treatment.
Successful Use of Hyperbaric Oxygen as Adjunctive Therapy for a Nonhealing Venous Ulcer in a Patient with Systemic Sclerosis and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Biney Isaac , Dudney Tina , Goldman Mitchell , Carder Lee , Schriver Elise
Published: February 2020

Skin ulcers are a common complication of systemic sclerosis (SSc) that can significantly impact the quality of life. There have been recent reports on the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO2T) in the management of nonhealing systemic sclerosis skin ulcers. The effect of HBO2T on pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), another common and potentially life-threatening complication of SSc, is unclear with literature on the subject lacking. We present the case of a 65-year-old female with limited SSc complicated by severe PAH and a nonhealing left lower extremity venous ulcer. HBO2T was successfully used as an adjunct in her management resulting in complete resolution of the venous ulcer and improved quality of life without any adverse effects on her pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Comparative Environmental Evaluation of Straw Resources by LCA in China
Authors: Shang Xiaoyu , Song Siqi , Yang Jingwei
Published: February 2020

Crop straw, as a widely used biomass resource, can be processed to produce renewable energy and green products. However, about 70% of straw were burned in the open air, causing serious environmental pollution and air pollution. In order to reduce the burden on the environment, the different straw management strategies are comparatively studied and evaluated by applying the life‐cycle assessment (LCA) method. Within the system boundary from cradle to grave, three alternative scenarios, including straw particleboard, straw cement‐bonded particleboard, and straw direct combustion power generation, are compared with the current common treatment (straw open burning). The comprehensive inventory analysis on each treatment scenario is carried out in‐depth, and the corresponding resource consumption and environmental impact of each treatment scenario are calculated, respectively. The LCA results showed that the environmental impacts of reusing crop straw to produce straw particleboard and cement‐bonded particleboard (Scenario 1 and Scenario 2) is significantly reduced by 6% and 10%, by comparison with the use of wood resource. Greenhouse gas emissions from straw direct combustion power generation (Scenario 3) processes are reduced by 30% compared with coal power generation. From the environmental point of view, the scenario of straw particleboard product has the smallest impact on the environment, while straw open burning is not an advisable way due to the highest environmental impact from the highest greenhouse gas emissions and acidification effects. From the perspective of energy consumption, the energy consumption for the combustion power generation is the smallest in all scenarios. It is suggested that governments are supposed to construct reasonable scenarios for the straw disposition based on the local development status and condition. The research results can provide scientific guidance for the management strategy of the comprehensive utilization of straw resources.
FAOD-Net: A Fast AOD-Net for Dehazing Single Image
Authors: Qian Wen , Zhou Chao , Zhang Dengyin
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we present an extremely computation-efficient model called FAOD-Net for dehazing single image. FAOD-Net is based on a streamlined architecture that uses depthwise separable convolutions to build lightweight deep neural networks. Moreover, the pyramid pooling module is added in FAOD-Net to aggregate the context information of different regions of the image, thereby improving the ability of the network model to obtain the global information of the foggy image. To get the best FAOD-Net, we use the RESIDE training set to train our proposed model. In addition, we have carried out extensive experiments on the RESIDE test set. We use full-reference and no-reference image quality evaluation indicators to measure the effect of dehazing. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm has satisfactory results in terms of defogging quality and speed.
The Oil-Bearing Strata of Permian Deposits of the Ashal’cha Oil Field Depending on the Content, Composition, and Thermal Effects of Organic Matter Oxidation in the Rocks
Authors: Kayukova Galina P. , Mikhailova Anastasiya N. , Kosachev Igor P. , Emelyanov Dmitry A. , Varfolomeev Mikhail A. , Uspensky Boris V. , Vakhin Alexey V.
Published: February 2020

The features of the oil-bearing capacity of the productive strata of Permian deposits in the interval of 117.5-188.6 m along the section of individual wells of the Ashal’cha field of heavy superviscous oil (Tatarstan) were revealed depending on the content, composition, and thermal effects of organic matter (OM) oxidation in the rocks. It is shown that the rocks are very heterogeneous in their mineral composition and in the content of both free hydrocarbons by extraction with organic solvents and insoluble OM closely associated with the rock. The total content of OM in rocks varies from 1.72 to 9.12%. The features of group and hydrocarbon composition of extracts from rocks are revealed depending on their mineral composition and the content of organic matter in them. According to the molecular mass distribution of alkanes of normal and isoprenoid structure, extracts from rocks are differentiated according to three chemical types of oil: type A1, in which n-alkanes of composition C14 and above are present, and types A2 and B2, in which n-alkanes are destroyed to varying degrees by processes microbial destruction, which indicates a different intensity of biochemical processes in productive strata of Permian sediments. These processes lead to a decrease in the amount of OM in the rocks and an increase in the content of resins and asphaltenes in the oil extracted from them, as well as an increase in the viscosity of the oil. Using the method of differential scanning calorimetry of high pressure, it was found that the studied rock samples differ from each other in quantitative characteristics of exothermic effects in both low-temperature (LTO) 200-350°С and high-temperature (HTO) 350-600°С zones of OM oxidation. The total thermal effect of destruction processes of OM depends on the content of OM in the rocks and its composition. The research results show that when heavy oil is extracted using thermal technologies, the Permian productive strata with both low and high OM contents will be involved in the development, and the general thermal effect of the oxidation of which will contribute to increased oil recovery.
Wireless Photoplethysmography Sensor for Continuous Blood Pressure Biosignal Shape Acquisition
Authors: Kuncoro C. Bambang Dwi , Luo Win-Jet , Kuan Yean-Der
Published: February 2020

Blood pressure assessment plays a vital role in day-to-day clinical diagnosis procedures as well as personal monitoring. Thus, blood pressure monitoring devices must afford convenience and be easy to use with no side effects on the user. This paper presents a compact, economical, power-efficient, and convenient wireless plethysmography sensor for real-time blood pressure biosignal monitoring. The proposed sensor facilitates blood pressure signal shape sensing, signal conditioning, and data conversion as well as its wireless transmission to a monitoring terminal. Received data can, subsequently, be compiled and stored on a computer via a Wi-Fi module. During monitoring, users can observe blood pressure signals being processed and displayed on the graphical user interface (GUI)—developed using a virtual instrumentation (VI) application. The proposed device comprises a finger clip optical pulse sensor, analogue signal preprocessing, microcontroller, and Wi-Fi module. It consumes approximately 500 mW power when operating in the active mode and synthesized using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components. Experimental results reveal that the proposed device is reliable and facilitates efficient blood pressure monitoring. The proposed wireless photoplethysmographic (PPG) sensor is a preliminary (or first) version of the intended device manifestation. It provides raw blood pressure data for further classification. Additionally, the collected data concerning the blood pressure wave shape can be easily analysed for use in other biosignal observations, interpretations, and investigations. The design approach also allows the device to be built into a wearable system for further research purposes.
The Projection Model with Unknown Weight Information under Interval Neutrosophic Environment and Its Application to Software Quality-in-Use Evaluation
Authors: Wang Tongjuan
Published: February 2020

Interval neutrosophic sets (INSs) provide us with a more flexible and effective way to express incomplete, indeterminate, and inconsistent information. The purpose of this paper is to introduce the new multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) method based on the improved projection model under the interval neutrosophic environment. In this paper, we investigated the basic concepts and operational rules of interval neutrosophic numbers (INNs), then proposed the projection of two INNs and improved the entropy formula of the INNs. Furthermore, this paper took account into the decision maker’s attitude towards the indeterminacy and risk and proposed two different methods to determine the ideal solutions. Based on this, we presented an improved MCDM method based on the projection model under the interval neutrosophic environment. Finally, the practicability and reliability of the proposed method were explained by the example of software quality-in-use evaluation.
Single-Stage Arthroscopic Anterior and Posterior Cruciate Ligament Repairs and Open Medial Collateral Ligament Repair for Acute Knee Dislocation
Authors: Murakami Ryo , Honda Eisaburo , Fukai Atsushi , Yoshitomi Hiroki , Sanada Takaki , Iwaso Hiroshi
Published: February 2020

Till date, there are no clear guidelines regarding the treatment of multiple ligament knee injuries. Ligament repair is advantageous as it preserves proprioception and does not involve grafting. Many studies have reported the use of open repair and reconstruction for multiple ligament knee injuries; however, reports on arthroscopic-combined single-stage anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) repairs are scarce. In this report, we describe a case of type III knee dislocation (ACL, PCL, and medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries) in a 43-year-old man, caused by contact while playing futsal. On the sixth day after injury, arthroscopic ACL and PCL repairs were performed with open MCL repair. The proximal lesions in the three ligaments that were injured were sutured using no. 2 strong surgical sutures. The ACL was pulled out to the lateral condyle of the femur and fixed using a suspensory fixation device. The PCL was pulled out to the medial condyle of the femur, and the MCL was pulled towards the proximal end of the femur; both were fixed using suture anchors. Early mobilization was performed, and both, clinical and imaging outcomes, were good two years after surgery.
A Mathematical Model for Parametric Tooth Profile of Spur Gears
Authors: Zhai Guodong , Liang Zhihao , Fu Zihao
Published: February 2020

Spur gears are widely used transmission components. In the traditional design process, the noninvolute part of the tooth profile curve is difficult to describe with mathematical equations. This article puts forward a new parametric modeling method, which can describe the modified involute part of spur gears and parameterize and optimize the transition part of the involute curve of the spur gear. And this model of the spur gear can be created by parameters which is input in Scilab software and the spur gear graphic can be completed correspondingly. The experiments show that this modeling method can more quickly produce the standard spur or modified spur gear, and it also improves the efficiency and accuracy of spur gear modeling.
Parameters That Influence Corrosion Detection in Reinforced Concrete Based on Eddy Current Thermography
Authors: Liu Lu , Zheng Dan , Zhou Jianting , Yang Juan , Zhang Hong
Published: February 2020

This study introduces an eddy current thermography technique that can be used to detect and evaluate steel corrosion in a reinforced concrete structure. The rate of surface temperature changes in reinforced concrete is proposed as a means to characterize the degree of steel bar corrosion. The rate of surface temperature changes increased gradually with an increase in the corrosion degree. The influence of structural parameters on the rate of the temperature change was analyzed in detail. The results indicated that the rate of surface temperature change increased with a decrease in the concrete cover depth and with an increase in the humidity of the concrete, and this was affected by the diameter of the internal steel bar. Concrete cover was the most significant factor that affected the rate of the surface temperature change, except for the corrosion degree. The variations in the surface temperature of reinforced concrete can be explained using the law of electromagnetic induction and the electrochemical property change of corroded steel bar. This research provides a reliable basis for real‐world applications and is helpful to understand the application scope of eddy current thermography technology for the quantitative detection of steel corrosion.
The Mast Cell Is an Early Activator of Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Neuroinflammation and Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction in the Hippocampus
Authors: Wang Yiwei , Sha Huanhuan , Zhou Leting , Chen Yinan , Zhou Qin , Dong Hongquan , Qian Yanning
Published: February 2020

Neuroinflammation contributes to or even causes central nervous system (CNS) diseases, and its regulation is thus crucial for brain disorders. Mast cells (MCs) and microglia, two resident immune cells in the brain, together with astrocytes, play critical roles in the progression of neuroinflammation-related diseases. MCs have been demonstrated as one of the fastest responders, and they release prestored and newly synthesized mediators including histamine, β-tryptase, and heparin. However, temporal changes in MC activation in this inflammation process remain unclear. This study demonstrated that MC activation began at 2 h and peaked at 4 h after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration. The number of activated MCs remained elevated until 24 h after LPS administration. In addition, the levels of histamine and β-tryptase in the hippocampus markedly and rapidly increased within 6 h and remained higher than the baseline level within 24 h after LPS challenge. Furthermore, mast cell-deficient KitW-sh/W-sh mice were used to investigate the effects of MCs on microglial and astrocytic activation and blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability at 4 h after LPS stimulation. Notably, LPS-induced proinflammatory cytokine secretion, microglial activation, and BBB damage were inhibited in KitW-sh/W-sh mice. However, no detectable astrocytic changes were found in WT and KitW-sh/W-sh mice at 4 h after LPS stimulation. Our findings indicate that MC activation precedes CNS inflammation and suggest that MCs are among the earliest participants in the neuroinflammation-initiating events.
Impact of Community-Led Total Sanitation and Hygiene on Prevalence of Diarrheal Disease and Associated Factors among Under-Five Children: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study in Selected Woredas of Gamo Gofa Zone, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Ashole Alto Agune , Godana Wanzahun , Gedamu Genet
Published: February 2020

Background. Diarrheal diseases are still one of the major causes of morbidity in under-five children in sub-Saharan Africa. In Ethiopia, diarrhea is responsible for 9% of all deaths and is the major cause of under-five mortality. Objective. To assess the impact of community-led total sanitation and hygiene on the prevalence of diarrheal disease and factors associated among under-five children in Gamo Gofa Zone. Methods. Community-based comparative cross-sectional study design was used to compare the impact of community-led total sanitation and hygiene intervention on under-five diarrheal disease. Multistage sampling method was employed. The data were collected by using pretested structured questionnaires. Data quality was ensured by daily supervision completeness and consistency. The data were coded, entered, and cleaned by using Epi Info version 7 and were analyzed by using SPSS version 20. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were carried out by using binary logistic regression. Significance was declared by using p value of <0.05 and AOR with 95% confidence intervals. Results. The response rate of this study was 93.3%. The overall diarrhea prevalence was 27.5% (CI = (24.06, 30.97)) which was 18.9% (CI = (14.94, 23.2)) in implemented and 36.2%. (CI = (30.41, 41.59)) in nonimplemented woredas. Children whose age was between 12 and 23 months (AOR = 1.6) and greater than 24 months (AOR = 5), availability of handwashing facilities (AOR = 4), disposal of waste in open field (AOR = 9.7), unimproved source of drinking water (AOR = 6.5), using only water for handwashing (AOR = 6), children who started complementary feeding less than 6 months (AOR = 5.6) and greater than 6 months (AOR = 5.2), and utensils used to feed children such as bottle (AOR = 3.9) were the factors positively associated with diarrhea. Conclusion. The overall prevalence of under-five diarrhea was 27.5%. The prevalence was low in CLTSH woredas as compared with non-CLTSH woredas. The study showed that handwashing facility, using only water for handwashing, open refuse disposal, and unimproved source of drinking water among under-five had a statistically significant association with diarrhea occurrence in CLTSH nonimplemented areas. Integrated efforts are needed from the Ministry of Health together with the WASH Project in improving drinking water, handwashing facilities, and solid waste disposal practices.
Revised Rebound Hammer and Pull‐Out Test Strength Curves for Fiber‐Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Deng Peng , Sun Yan , Liu Yan , Song Xiaoxiao
Published: February 2020

Rebound hammer tests and postinstalled pull‐out tests are commonly used for evaluating the compressive strength of ordinary concrete, and the strength of concrete is estimated by strength curves. However, using these strength curves to predict the compressive strength of carbon fiber‐reinforced concrete (CFRC), polypropylene fiber‐reinforced concrete (PFRC), and carbon‐polypropylene hybrid fiber‐reinforced concrete (HFRC) may lead to considerable uncertainties. Therefore, this study revises the strength curves derived from rebound hammer tests and postinstalled pull‐out tests for ordinary concrete. 480 specimens of fiber‐reinforced concrete (FRC) of six strength grades are examined. Standard cube compressive strength tests are used as a reference, and the results of various regression models are compared. The linear model is determined as the most accurate model for postinstalled pull‐out tests, whereas the power model is the most accurate for rebound hammer tests. The proposed strength curves have important applications for FRC engineering of the postinstalled pull‐out tests and rebound hammer tests.