bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parsonage Turner syndrome caused byStaphylococcus aureusspondylodiscitis
Authors: Brown Robyn , O'Callaghan Jamie , Peter Noel
Published: February 2020

Parsonage Turner syndrome (otherwise known as PTS, neuralgic amyotrophy or acute brachial neuritis) is a rare, but clinically significant cause of atraumatic shoulder girdle pain and weakness. Diagnosis is primarily clinical and can be challenging due to its heterogeneous presentation. A case of PTS following systemic infection fromStaphylococcus aureusspondylodiscitis is presented. Timely consideration of the diagnosis prevented unnecessary investigation and allowed effective rehabilitation. This is the first case of PTS preceded byS. aureusinfection. PTS should be considered in those presenting with acute, atraumatic shoulder dysfunction after systemic infection.
Yersinia pseudotuberculosis: an unexpected cause of fever and a hot joint
Authors: Martyn Emily , Heward Jack , Herbert Rachel
Published: February 2020

Yersinia pseudotuberculosisis a Gram-negative zoonosis which occasionally infects humans via ingestion of contaminated food and water, and typically causes a self-limiting gastrointestinal tract infection. Patients who are immunocompromised, have haemochromatosis or liver cirrhosis are more likely to develop serious complications such as bacteraemia. We present the case of a 76-year-old man with fever and an acutely tender, swollen right knee. Blood cultures were positive forY. pseudotuberculosis, and 16s ribosomal PCR analysis of his knee aspirate confirmed septic arthritis. He was treated with intravenous ceftriaxone and made an excellent recovery following knee washout. Interestingly, our patient did not have any of the classic risk factors described in the literature, or history of exposure to the pathogen to explain his diagnosis. To our knowledge, this is only the second confirmed case ofY. pseudotuberculosisbacteraemia with septic arthritis, and the first to involve the knee joint.
Improved reporting of overuse injuries and health problems in sport: an update of the Oslo Sport Trauma Research Center questionnaires
Authors: Clarsen Benjamin , Bahr Roald , Myklebust Grethe , Andersson Stig Haugsboe , Docking Sean Iain , Drew Michael , Finch Caroline F , Fortington Lauren Victoria , Harøy Joar , Khan Karim M , Moreau Bill , Moore Isabel S , Møller Merete , Nabhan Dustin , Nielsen Rasmus Oestergaard , Pasanen Kati , Schwellnus Martin , Soligard Torbjørn , Verhagen Evert
Published: February 2020

In 2013, the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Overuse Injury Questionnaire (OSTRC-O) was developed to record the magnitude, symptoms and consequences of overuse injuries in sport. Shortly afterwards, a modified version of the OSTRC-O was developed to capture all types of injuries and illnesses—The Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Questionnaire on Health Problems (OSTRC-H). Since then, users from a range of research and clinical environments have identified areas in which these questionnaires may be improved. Therefore, the structure and content of the questionnaires was reviewed by an international panel consisting of the original developers, other user groups and experts in sports epidemiology and applied statistical methodology. Following a review panel meeting in October 2017, several changes were made to the questionnaires, including minor wording alterations, changes to the content of one question and the addition of questionnaire logic. In this paper, we present the updated versions of the questionnaires (OSTRC-O2 and OSTRC-H2), assess the likely impact of the updates on future data collection and discuss practical issues related to application of the questionnaires. We believe this update will improve respondent adherence and improve the quality of collected data.
Microrna Profiling of Serum Exosomes in Patients with Osteosarcoma by High-Throughput Sequencing
Authors: Ye Zhimeng , Zheng Zhuojun , Peng Linrui
Published: February 2020

The microRNA expression profile of plasma exosomes in osteosarcoma needs to be further explored. The present study intends to investigate the practicality of plasma exosomal miRNAs as novel biomarkers of osteosarcoma. In the study, exosome-like vesicles were purified from the plasma of patients with osteosarcoma and healthy control. Differential centrifugation was used. The purified vesicles which ranged from 50 to 100 nm in size were identified as exosomes by transmission electron microscopy and western blot. Validating assays in vitro and in vivo were performed via CCK8, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, flow cytometry, transwell and wound healing assays and xenograft model. High-throughput sequencing identified that 57 miRNAs, 20 of which were upregulated and 37 downregulated, were differentially expressed in patients with osteosarcoma and healthy control (p<0.01; fold change ≥3). In comparison to the controls, the expression levels of miR-92a-3p, miR-130a-3p, miR-195-3 p, miR-335-5 p, let-7i-3p were upregulated in the exosomes from patients with osteosarcoma with statistical significance. Studies in vitro and in vivo have proved that osteosarcoma-secreted exosomes from miR-195-3 p upregulated 143B osteosarcoma cells promote cell proliferation and invasion. Overall, the present study identified exosomal miRNAs with dysregulated expression in patients with osteosarcoma, and they may have potential as targets for the treatment of patients with osteosarcoma.
Minority report: can minor parents refuse treatment for their child?
Authors: Turnham Helen Lynne , Binik Ariella , Wilkinson Dominic
Published: February 2020

Infants are unable to make their own decisions or express their own wishes about medical procedures and treatments. They rely on surrogates to make decisions for them. Who should be the decision-maker when an infant’s biological parents are also minors? In this paper, we analyse a case in which the biological mother is a child. The central questions raised by the case are whether minor parents should make medical decisions on behalf of an infant, and if so, what are the limits to this decision-making authority? In particular, can they refuse treatment that might be considered best for the infant? We examine different ethical arguments to underpin parental decision-making authority; we argue that provided that minor parents are capable of fulfilling their parental duties, they should have a right to make medical decisions for their infant. We then examine the ethical limits to minor parents’ decision-making authority for their children. We argue that the restricted authority that teenagers are granted to make medical decisions for themselves looks very similar to the restricted autonomy of all parents. That is, they are permitted to make choices, but not harmful choices. Like all parents, minor parents must not abuse or neglect their children and must also promote their welfare. They have a moral right to make medical decisions for their infants within the same ‘zone of parental discretion’ that applies to adult parents. We conclude that adult and minor parents should have comparable decision-making authority for their infants.
Proton structure and hollowness from Lévy imaging of pp elastic scattering
Authors: Csörgő T. , Pasechnik R. , Ster A.
Published: February 2020

The recently developed Lévy imaging method enables to extract an important physics information on hadron structure at high energies and ultra-low momentum transfers directly from elastic scattering data. In this work, we employ such a model-independent method to probe the internal structure of the proton and quantify its inelasticity profile in the impact parameter space emerging in proton-proton collisions at the highest available energy of $$\sqrt{s} = 13$$s=13 TeV. The inelasticity profile function and its error band for the proton and its substructure have been reconstructed at different energies and the proton hollowness (or “black-ring”) effect with beyond 5$$\sigma $$σ significance has been found at 13 TeV.
Traversable wormholes supported by GUP corrected Casimir energy
Authors: Jusufi Kimet , Channuie Phongpichit , Jamil Mubasher
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we investigate the effect of the Generalized Uncertainty Principle (GUP) in the Casimir wormhole spacetime recently proposed by Garattini (Eur Phys J C 79: 951, 2019). In particular, we consider three types of GUP relations, firstly the Kempf, Mangano and Mann (KMM) model, secondly the Detournay, Gabriel and Spindel (DGS) model, and finally the so-called type II model for the GUP principle. To this end, we consider three specific models of the redshift function along with two different equations of state (EoS), given by $${\mathcal {P}}_r(r)=\omega _r(r) \rho (r)$$Pr(r)=ωr(r)ρ(r) and $${\mathcal {P}}_t(r)=\omega _t (r){\mathcal {P}}_r(r)$$Pt(r)=ωt(r)Pr(r) and obtain a class of asymptotically flat wormhole solutions supported by Casimir energy under the effect of GUP. Furthermore we check the null, weak, and strong condition at the wormhole throat with a radius $$r_0$$r0, and we show that in general the classical energy conditions are violated by some arbitrary quantity at the wormhole throat. Importantly, we examine the wormhole geometry with semiclassical corrections via embedding diagrams. We also consider the ADM mass of the wormhole, the volume-integral quantifier to calculate the amount of the exotic matter near the wormhole throat, and the deflection angle of light.
Dynamics of a Prey–Predator System with Foraging Facilitation in Predators
Authors: Yao Yong
Published: February 2020

The dynamics of a prey–predator system with foraging facilitation among predators are investigated. The analysis involves the computation of many semi-algebraic systems of large degrees. We apply the pseudo-division reduction, real-root isolation technique and complete discrimination system of polynomial to obtain the parameter conditions for the exact number of equilibria and their qualitative properties as well as do a complete investigation of bifurcations including saddle-node, transcritical, pitchfork, Hopf and Bogdanov–Takens bifurcations. Moreover, numerical simulations are presented to support our theoretical results.
Bifurcation Analysis of a Self-Sustained Birhythmic Oscillator Under Two Delays and Colored Noises
Authors: Sun Yuanli , Ning Lijuan
Published: February 2020

In this manuscript, an investigation on bifurcations induced by two delays and additive and multiplicative colored noises in a self-sustained birhythmic oscillator is presented, both theoretically and numerically, which serves for the purpose of unveiling extremely complicated nonlinear dynamics in various spheres, especially in biology. By utilizing the multiple scale expansion approach and stochastic averaging technique, the stationary probability density function (SPDF) of the amplitude is obtained for discussing stochastic bifurcations. With time delays, intensities and correlation time of noises regarded as bifurcation parameters, rich bifurcation arises. In the case of additive noise, it is identified that the bifurcations induced by the two delays are entirely distinct and longer velocity delay can accelerate the conversion rate of excited enzyme molecules. A novel type of P-bifurcation emerges from the process in the case of multiplicative colored noise, with the SPDF qualitatively changing between crater-like and bimodal distributions, while it cannot be generated when the multiplicative colored noise is coupled with additive noise. The feasibility and effectiveness of analytical methods are confirmed by the good consistency between theoretical and numerical solutions. This investigation may have practical applications in governing dynamical behaviors of birhythmic systems.
Entropy Bifurcation of Neural Networks on Cayley Trees
Authors: Ban Jung-Chao , Chang Chih-Hung , Huang Nai-Zhu
Published: February 2020

It has been demonstrated that excitable media with a tree structure performed better than other network topologies, therefore it is natural to consider neural networks defined on Cayley trees. The investigation of a symbolic space called tree-shift of finite type is important when it comes to the discussion of the equilibrium solutions of neural networks on Cayley trees. Entropy is a frequently used invariant for measuring the complexity of a system, and constant entropy for an open set of coupling weights between neurons means that the specific network is stable. This paper gives a complete characterization of entropy spectrum of neural networks on Cayley trees and reveals whether the entropy bifurcates when the coupling weights change.
Second Order Melnikov Functions of Piecewise Hamiltonian Systems
Authors: Yang Peixing , Françoise Jean-Pierre , Yu Jiang
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we consider the general perturbations of piecewise Hamiltonian systems. A formula for the second order Melnikov functions is derived when the first order Melnikov functions vanish. As an application, we can improve an upper bound of the number of bifurcated limit cycles of a piecewise Hamiltonian system with quadratic polynomial perturbations.
Synthesis and High Visible Light Photocatalytic Activity of Ternary Brookite-g-C3N4-BiOBr Composite
Authors: Liu Ning , Xie Huidong , Li Jie , Zhao Yajuan , Wang Na
Published: February 2020

Brookite TiO2 was synthesized by a hydrothermal method, g-C3N4 was prepared by a pyrolytic method, brookite/g-C3N4 composites were prepared by a calcining method, and brookite/g-C3N4/BiOBr ternary composites were prepared by loading BiOBr on the surface of brookite/g-C3N4. XRD and XPS analysis of the composites confirmed the formation of brookite TiO2/g-C3N4/BiOBr. SEM and TEM results confirmed the as-prepared composites were nanosized. The optimum loading amount of BiOBr was 30%. The photocatalytic results showed that the brookite/g-C3N4/30%BiOBr composites degraded rhodamine B completely under visible light irradiation. The degradation ratio of brookite/g-C3N4/30%BiOBr toward rhodamine B was nearly 100% for 2[Formula: see text]h, which was much higher than that of brookite TiO2 and brookite/g-C3N4 catalysts. The reason for the improvement of photocatalytic activity might be because the composites promoted the formation of superoxide radicals and the separation efficiency of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. The photocurrent density of the brookite/g-C3N4/30%BiOBr was about 10 times higher than that of pure brookite. In addition, the brookite/g-C3N4/BiOBr showed a good repeatablity of photocatalysis.
The Effect of Institutional Investors’ Voice on the Terms and Outcome of Freeze-out Tender Offers
Authors: Lauterbach Beni , Mugerman Yevgeny
Published: February 2020

We study the impact of institutional investors’ “voice” on 201 going private tender offers by controlling shareholders (“freeze-out” offers) in Israel. Israeli regulatory intervention in freeze-out tender offers is relatively mild; thus, institutional investors’ activism becomes crucial. We find that institutional voice has dual effects. On one hand, when there are pre-negotiations with institutional investors’ (their voice is heard), accepted offers’ premiums increase. On the other hand, when institutional investors express their voice, yet reject the offer, these rejections appear to hurt shareholders’ value. We also document significant institutional investor exit after rejected offers, especially after offers preceded by voice (pre-negotiations with institutional investors).
Cosmology of artificial intelligence project
Authors: Watkins Trevor
Published: February 2020

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transcended beyond buzzwords, keywords or trends. The ubiquity of AI is so profound that it has managed to seep into popular culture. It breeds throughout social media platforms. It dominates the airwaves. It is impossible to watch television without mention of the acronym, the word, and how everyone is using it. However, if we look a little closer, take a deep dive into the AI pool where everyone seems to be swimming, we began to learn that AI has been misinterpreted, misrepresented, and incorrectly defined. "In the Laws of Thought and Thinking Machines," Hughes and Hughes (2019) talk about how uncovering the truth of the definition, meaning, applications, and implications of Artificial Intelligence would be a noteworthy goal. Today we are pursuing that goal.
AI is multidisciplinary
Authors: Dignum Virginia
Published: February 2020

The last few years have seen a huge growth in the capabilities and applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and autonomous systems. Hardly a day goes by without news about technological advances and the societal impact of the use of AI. AI is changing the way we work, live and solve challenges. For example, it can improve healthcare, protect elephants from poachers, and work out how broadband should be distributed.
Effective Parameterization of PEM Fuel Cell Models—Part II: Robust Parameter Subset Selection, Robust Optimal Experimental Design, and Multi-Step Parameter Identification Algorithm
Authors: Goshtasbi Alireza , Chen Jixin , Waldecker James R. , Hirano Shinichi , Ersal Tulga
Published: February 2020

The second part of this two-part study develops a systematic framework for parameter identification in polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell models. The framework utilizes the extended local sensitivity results of the first part to find an optimal subset of parameters for identification. This is achieved through an optimization algorithm that maximizes the well-known D-optimality criterion. The sensitivity data are then used for optimal experimental design (OED) to ensure that the resulting experiments are maximally informative for the purpose of parameter identification. To make the experimental design problem computationally tractable, the optimal experiments are chosen from a predefined library of operating conditions. Finally, a multi-step identification algorithm is proposed to formulate a regularized and well-conditioned optimization problem. The identification algorithm utilizes the unique structure of output predictions, wherein sensitivities to parameter perturbations typically vary with the load. To verify each component of the framework, synthetic experimental data generated with the model using nominal parameter values are used in an identification case study. The results confirm that each of these components plays a critical role in successful parameter identification.
Non-flammable Inorganic Liquid Electrolyte Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Ramar Vishwanathan , Pszolla Christian , Rapp Manfred , Borck Markus , Zinck Laurent
Published: February 2020

Reduced safety of conventional organic electrolyte (OE) lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) during abusive failure conditions pose a technical barrier and the state of uncertainty in the market penetration of electrification of vehicles and stationary storage. To address this, we report nonflammable inorganic liquid electrolyte LiFePO4/Graphite (LFP/G) batteries for commercial high energy/power applications. The inorganic electrolyte (IE) is prepared by solvating the molten LiAlCl4 salts using liquid/gaseous xSO2 (x = 1 to 22 moles SO2, proprietary formulae is used) which shows remarkably high Li+ ion conductivity of 121 mS cm−1 at 22 °C. IE LFP/Li half-cell exhibits outstanding rate capability up to 8 C with the capacity of 74 mAh g−1 at room temperature (RT). For the first time, IE-based commercial prototype LFP/G prismatic cells with the capacity of 1.08 Ah shows ultrahigh longevity (50,000 cycles at 2 C up to 20% residual capacity) with coulombic efficiency of ∼99.99% and constant internal resistance at RT. We also demonstrate depth of discharge up to 0 V for 150 cycles using IE LFP/G cells at RT, which shows comparable cycling stability of cells which are discharged to 2.5 V, in contrast to OE LIBs. Further, the capacity retention is improved by 5% using dip-coating process of positive electrodes.
Competition and Interhalogen Formation During Parallel Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Bromide and Chloride on Pt
Authors: Vos Johannes G. , Venugopal Anirudh , Smith Wilson A. , Koper Marc T. M.
Published: February 2020

Hydrogen production from seawater electrolysis is highly promising for the capture and storage of intermittent renewable energy, but is hindered by the possibility of unwanted reactions at the anode. The oxidation reactions of chloride and (to a lesser extent) bromide, which can occur in parallel to the evolution of oxygen, lead to environmentally harmful by-products and thus represent undesirable side-reactions. We present some general considerations of solution chemistry and oxidation products that may be expected in a mixed acidic bromide/chloride electrolyte. We performed electrochemical model studies of the simultaneous oxidation of bromide and chloride and their mutual interaction on a Pt electrocatalyst, with the aim of deepening the general understanding of the anodic competition problem. Using simplified model systems, our findings suggest that the oxidation of bromide is hindered by competing chloride adsorption, in a way that can be quite satisfactorily modelled by a simple Langmuir isotherm describing the competing adsorption and reactivity of all species. The oxidation of chloride was however not properly captured by this same model, and may be substantially different. Furthermore, the formation of the interhalogen compound BrCl seems to occur in-between the oxidation of bromide and chloride.
Antioxidant Effects and Mechanisms of Medicinal Plants and Their Bioactive Compounds for the Prevention and Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes: An Updated Review
Authors: Unuofin Jeremiah Oshiomame , Lebelo Sogolo Lucky
Published: February 2020

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that majorly affects the endocrine gland, and it is symbolized by hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance owing to deficient insulin secretory responses and beta cell dysfunction. This ailment affects as many as 451 million people worldwide, and it is also one of the leading causes of death. In spite of the immense advances made in the development of orthodox antidiabetic drugs, these drugs are often considered not successful for the management and treatment of T2DM due to the myriad side effects associated with them. Thus, the exploration of medicinal herbs and natural products as therapeutic sources for the treatment of T2DM is promoted because they have little or no side effects. Bioactive molecules isolated from natural sources have been proven to lower blood glucose levelsviaregulating one or more of the following mechanisms: improvement of beta cell function, insulin resistance, glucose (re)absorption, and glucagon-like peptide-1 homeostasis. In recent times, the mechanisms of action of different bioactive molecules with antidiabetic properties and phytochemistry are gaining a lot of attention in the area of drug discovery. This review article presents an update of the findings from clinical research into medicinal plant therapy for T2DM.
Design and Fabrication of W-Band Waveguide Slotted Array Antenna Based on Milling Process
Authors: Meng Hongfu , Chen Yang , Dou Wenbin
Published: February 2020

A single-layer waveguide slotted array antenna is proposed for W-band applications. To eliminate the alignment errors, all structures including the radiation slots, radiation waveguides, and power divider network are realized in one layer based on the milling process, and a planar metal plate is employed to cover the bottom. For example, an 8 × 9 array is designed with 1-to-8 power divider network to validate the proposed technology. The effective radiation aperture size of the array is 24 mm × 21 mm, and the height is only 8 mm. The measured reflection coefficient of the antenna is larger than 3 GHz for S11 < −10 dB. The peak gain is 25.9 dBi, and the corresponding antenna efficiency is about 65%. All cross-polarization of the antenna array is less than −35 dB. The proposed array antenna features a simple structure, low cost, and easy implementation for W-band applications.
Cardiac Abnormalities in Acromegaly Patients: A Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Study
Authors: Guo Xiaopeng , Cao Jian , Liu Peijun , Cao Yihan , Li Xiao , Gao Lu , Wang Zihao , Fang Ligang , Jin Zhengyu , Wang Yining , Xing Bing
Published: February 2020

Cardiac abnormalities are the most common and deadly comorbidities of acromegaly. Assessments using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging in acromegaly patients are rare. We aimed to evaluate the frequencies of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), interventricular septum hypertrophy (IVSH), LV systolic dysfunction (LVSD), right ventricular systolic dysfunction (RVSD), and myocardial fibrosis (MCF) and detailed quantitative parameters in acromegaly patients using CMR and analyze their correlations with clinical features. Sixty-one patients were enrolled in this study. The rates of LVH, IVSH, LVSD, RVSD, and MCF were 26.2%, 27.9%, 8.2%, 9.8%, and 14.8%, respectively. The average LV mass, LV mass index, IVS thickness, LV and RV free wall thickness, and LV and RV ejection fractions were 114.4 g, 60.0 g/m2, 9.6 mm, 7.2 mm, 2.9 mm, 59.9%, and 56.6%, respectively. The LV mass index was larger (68.9 ± 26.0 vs. 48.8 ± 10.6 g/m2), the IVS was thicker (10.3 ± 2.8 vs. 8.8 ± 1.8 mm), and the LV (57.6 ± 12.3% vs. 62.8 ± 4.8%) and RV ejection fractions (54.6 ± 8.7% vs. 59.2 ± 5.9%) were lower in male patients than in female patients (all p<0.05). Age, body mass index (BMI), disease duration, and hypertension were associated with cardiac abnormalities (all p<0.05). In conclusion, structural and functional cardiac abnormalities can be comprehensively evaluated by CMR in acromegaly patients. Gender greatly affects the presence of cardiac abnormalities. Age, BMI, disease duration, and hypertension but not GH or IGF-1 levels are associated clinical factors.
Role of 17β-Estradiol on Cell Proliferation and Mitochondrial Fitness in Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Castracani Carlo Castruccio , Longhitano Lucia , Distefano Alfio , Anfuso Daniela , Kalampoka Stavroula , La Spina Enrico , Astuto Marinella , Avola Roberto , Caruso Massimo , Nicolosi Daria , Giallongo Cesarina , Tibullo Daniele , Volti Giovanni Li
Published: February 2020

Gliomas are the most common primary tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) in the adult. Previous data showed that estrogen affects cancer cells, but its effect is cell-type-dependent and controversial. The present study aimed to analyze the effects of estradiol (E2, 5 nM) in human glioblastoma multiforme U87-MG cells and how it may impact on cell proliferation and mitochondrial fitness. We monitored cell proliferation by xCELLigence technology and mitochondrial fitness by assessing the expression of genes involved in mitochondrial biogenesis (PGC1α, SIRT1, and TFAM), oxidative phosphorylation (ND4, Cytb, COX-II, COX IV, NDUFA6, and ATP synthase), and dynamics (OPA1, MNF2, MNF1, and FIS1). Finally, we evaluated Nrf2 nuclear translocation by immunocytochemical analysis. Our results showed that E2 resulted in a significant increase in cell proliferation, with a significant increase in the expression of genes involved in various mechanisms of mitochondrial fitness. Finally, E2 treatment resulted in a significant increase of Nrf2 nuclear translocation with a significant increase in the expression of one of its target genes (i.e., heme oxygenase-1). Our results suggest that E2 promotes proliferation in glioblastoma cells and regulate the expression of genes involved in mitochondrial fitness and chemoresistance pathway.
Dimension and Location of the Mandibular Lingula: Comparisons of Gender and Skeletal Patterns Using Cone‐Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Hsu Kun-Jung , Tseng Yu-Chuan , Liang Shih-Wei , Hsiao Szu-Yu , Chen Chun-Ming
Published: February 2020

Objective. The study aimed to investigate and measure the anatomical relationship between the mandibular lingula (Li) and skeletal patterns using cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods. In total, 72 participants (23 men and 49 women) were categorized into three groups according to their skeletal patterns (specifically, the A point–nasion–B point (ANB]) angle) as follows: Class I (0° < ANB < 4°), Class II (ANB ≥ 4°), and Class III (ANB ≤ 0°). The CBCT images of 144 rami were collected, and the distance from the Li to the external oblique ridge (Li‐EOR), internal oblique ridge (Li‐IOR), posterior border of the ramus (Li‐PBR), inferior border of the ramus (Li‐IBR), sigmoid notch (Li‐Sm), and mandibular foramen (Li‐MF) was examined. The Li‐hMF (horizontal distance from the Li to the MF) and Li‐vMF (vertical distance from the Li to the MF) were measured. The comparisons of gender, side (right and left), and skeletal patterns were then evaluated by statistical analysis. Results. The values of the Li‐EOR and Li‐PBR (19.99 mm and 15.93 mm, respectively) were significantly higher in men than in women (18.85 mm and 14.89 mm, respectively). Moreover, the Li‐IBR was higher in men (32.91 mm) than in women (30.40 mm). Both sides (right and left) and skeletal patterns demonstrated that the Li‐EOR, Li‐IOR, and Li‐PBR were not significantly different. Pearson’s correlation test reported a strong correlation between the Li‐EOR and Li‐IOR (r = 0.610). Conclusion. The distances from mandibula lingula to the external oblique ridge, posterior border of ramus, and inferior border of ramus were significantly longer in men than in women. Similarly, both horizontal and vertical distances from the lingula to the mandibular foramen were significantly longer in men than in women. Therefore, the results demonstrated that the Li was longer and more protruding in men than in women. With respect to the horizontal distance from the mandibular lingula to the mandibular foramen, of the three types of the skeletal system (Class I, Class II, and Class III), Class III was the significantly largest.
Feasibility of Using Dynamic Time Warping to Measure Motor States in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Aghanavesi Somayeh , Fleyeh Hasan , Dougherty Mark
Published: February 2020

The aim of this paper is to investigate the feasibility of using the Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) method to measure motor states in advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD). Data were collected from 19 PD patients who experimented leg agility motor tests with motion sensors on their ankles once before and multiple times after an administration of 150% of their normal daily dose of medication. Experiments of 22 healthy controls were included. Three movement disorder specialists rated the motor states of the patients according to Treatment Response Scale (TRS) using recorded videos of the experiments. A DTW-based motor state distance score (DDS) was constructed using the acceleration and gyroscope signals collected during leg agility motor tests. Mean DDS showed similar trends to mean TRS scores across the test occasions. Mean DDS was able to differentiate between PD patients at Off and On motor states. DDS was able to classify the motor state changes with good accuracy (82%). The PD patients who showed more response to medication were selected using the TRS scale, and the most related DTW-based features to their TRS scores were investigated. There were individual DTW-based features identified for each patient. In conclusion, the DTW method can provide information about motor states of advanced PD patients which can be used in the development of methods for automatic motor scoring of PD.
A Fast Recognition Method for Space Targets in ISAR Images Based on Local and Global Structural Fusion Features with Lower Dimensions
Authors: Yang Hong , Zhang Yasheng , Ding Wenzhe
Published: February 2020

Feature extraction is the key step of Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar (ISAR) image recognition. However, limited by the cost and conditions of ISAR image acquisition, it is relatively difficult to obtain large-scale sample data, which makes it difficult to obtain target deep features with good discriminability by using the currently popular deep learning method. In this paper, a new method for low-dimensional, strongly robust, and fast space target ISAR image recognition based on local and global structural feature fusion is proposed. This method performs the trace transformation along the longest axis of the ISAR image to generate the global trace feature of the space target ISAR image. By introducing the local structural feature, Local Binary Pattern (LBP), the complementary fusion of the global and local features is achieved, which makes up for the missing structural information of the trace feature and ensures the integrity of the ISAR image feature information. The representation of trace and LBP features in a low-dimensional mapping feature space is found by using the manifold learning method. Under the condition of maintaining the local neighborhood relationship in the original feature space, the effective fusion of trace and LBP features is achieved. So, in the practical application process, the target recognition accuracy is no longer affected by trace function, LBP feature block number selection, and other factors, realizing the high robustness of the algorithm. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm, an ISAR image database containing 1325 samples of 5 types of space targets is used for experiments. The results show that the classification accuracy of the 5 types of space targets can reach more than 99%, and the recognition accuracy is no longer affected by the trace feature and LBP feature selection, which has strong robustness. The proposed method provides a fast and effective high-precision model for space target feature extraction, which can give some references for solving the problem of space object efficient identification under the condition of small sample data.
What and How Can Physical Activity Prevention Function on Parkinson’s Disease?
Authors: Fan Baozhu , Jabeen Riffat , Bo Bing , Guo Chunlei , Han Mengjie , Zhang Hui , Cen Juan , Ji Xinying , Wei Jianshe
Published: February 2020

Aim.This study was aimed at investigating the effects and molecular mechanisms of physical activity intervention on Parkinson’s disease (PD) and providing theoretical guidance for the prevention and treatment of PD.Methods.Four electronic databases up to December 2019 were searched (PubMed, Springer, Elsevier, and Wiley database), 176 articles were selected. Literature data were analyzed by the logic analysis method.Results.(1) Risk factors of PD include dairy products, pesticides, traumatic brain injury, and obesity. Protective factors include alcohol, tobacco, coffee, black tea, and physical activity. (2) Physical activity can reduce the risk and improve symptoms of PD and the beneficial forms of physical activity, including running, dancing, traditional Chinese martial arts, yoga, and weight training. (3) Different forms of physical activity alleviate the symptoms of PD through different mechanisms, including reducing the accumulation ofα-syn protein, inflammation, and oxidative stress, while enhancing BDNF activity, nerve regeneration, and mitochondrial function.Conclusion.Physical activity has a positive impact on the prevention and treatment of PD. Illustrating the molecular mechanism of physical activity-induced protective effect on PD is an urgent need for improving the efficacy of PD therapy regimens in the future.
The Spatiotemporal Evolution Pattern and Influential Factor of Regional Carbon Emission Convergence in China
Authors: Tong Xin
Published: February 2020

As economic development rapidly progresses in China, a method of carbon emission control that provides reasonable solutions is needed. This paper analyzes the convergence of carbon emission evolutionary characteristics in different regions of China and studies the dynamics of carbon emissions in China based on a convergence model. It was found that the carbon emission levels of each region are prominent in terms of time, and the regional carbon emission level has absolute β characteristics. The regional carbon emission condition β convergences have different convergence paths. Therefore, it is necessary to justify carbon emission reduction in China and put forward an emission reduction strategy.
Poor Prognoses of Young Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients with Microvascular Invasion: A Propensity Score Matching Cohort Study
Authors: Li Lian , Xu Liangliang , Wen Tianfu , Wu Hong , Wang Wentao , Yang Jiayin , Chen Zheyu , Wei Yonggang , Xu Mingqing , Li Bo , Zhang Ming
Published: February 2020

The relationship between age and the prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been widely investigated. However, few studies have focused on the influence of patient age on the prognosis of HCC with microvascular invasion (MVI). Patients with histologically confirmed HCC with MVI who underwent hepatectomy between 2008 and 2016 were retrospectively enrolled in this study and allocated to younger (young group) and older age groups (old group) according to age< or ≥60 years. A propensity score matching analysis was performed, and prognostic factors evaluated by Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards regression. Intraoperative and postoperative characteristics were compared between the two groups. A total of 374 patients were enrolled in this study. There were 84 patients in each group after a 1 : 1 propensity score matching analysis. The rates of both disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) differed significantly between the age groups. By univariate and multivariate analyses, age<60 years was significantly associated with DFS (hazard ratio, 1.590; 95% CI, 1.135–2.228) and OS (hazard ratio, 1.837; 95% CI, 1.259–2.680). There were no significant differences in intraoperative or postoperative characteristics between the two age groups. In patients with histologically confirmed HCC with MVI, the prognosis is poorer for those aged younger than 60 years than for those aged 60 years or older. Hepatectomy can be safely performed in selected older patients.
Apelin Promotes ECM Synthesis by Enhancing Autophagy Flux via TFEB in Human Degenerative NP Cells under Oxidative Stress
Authors: Jiang Wei , Zhao Pei , Zhang Xuemei
Published: February 2020

Background. Apelin alleviates oxidative stress which contributes to the development of aging. IVDD is a disease closely correlated to aging and oxidative stress which is known to be harmful to NP cells’ matrix synthesis. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the role and underlying mechanism of Apelin in NP cells’ matrix degradation under oxidative stress. Methods. First, the mRNA and protein expressions of Apelin were checked by RT‐PCR and Western blot in NP from normal and degenerative IVD to explore the relationship between Apelin and IVDD preliminarily. Then, H2O2 was used to mimic oxidative stress of NP cells. After treated with Apelin 13 and CQ, the GAG content was assessed by DMMB and the mRNA/protein expressions of NP matrix macromolecules (Collagen II and Aggrecan) and autophagy‐related markers (LC3 and p62) were assessed by RT‐PCR/Western blot. Finally, TFEB was knocked down by esiRNA‐TFEB transfection and the nucleoprotein expression of TFEB and autophagy‐related markers (LC3 and p62) were assessed by Western blot to discuss whether TFEB is involved in Apelin regulating autophagy flux in NP cells under oxidative stress. Results. Our data first confirmed that the mRNA and protein expressions of Apelin were decreased with IVDD. Furthermore, Apelin increased GAG content of NP cells and mRNA/protein expressions of NP matrix macromolecules (Collagen II and Aggrecan) and promoted autophagic flux (LC3II/I increased and p62 decreased) under oxidative stress. Finally, after transfected with esiRNA‐TFEB, Apelin cannot promote autophagic flux any more in human degenerative NP cells. Conclusion. Our data indicated that Apelin promotes ECM synthesis by enhancing autophagy flux via TFEB in human degenerative NP cells under oxidative stress. This viewpoint may provide a new therapeutic idea for IVDD.
The Prevalence of Single and Multiple Thyroid Nodules and Its Association with Metabolic Diseases in Chinese: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zou Bing , Sun Li , Wang Xin , Chen Zongtao
Published: February 2020

Purpose. The present study aims to investigate the prevalence of single and multiple thyroid nodules and its association with metabolic diseases in subjects who participated in the heath examination in China.Methods. This is a cross-sectional study. The participants who attend the physical examination at the Health Management Center of Southwest Hospital, Army Military Medical University, between January 2014 and December 2018, were included. Thyroid nodules were diagnosed by thyroid ultrasound. Multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate the association between metabolic diseases and nodular thyroid disease.Results. A total of 9,146 subjects were included in this study; of them, 2,961 were diagnosed with thyroid nodules, with a prevalence of 32.4%. The prevalence in women was significantly higher than that in men (45.2%vs26.0%;χ2 = 339.56,P<0.001), and the prevalence was gradually increased with age (Z = 20.05,P<0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that advanced age, female gender, and diabetes mellitus were positively associated with thyroid nodule in the general population. Additionally, the female gender, advanced age, and high LDL-C concentration were positively associated with high risk of multiple thyroid nodules, compared with patients of single thyroid nodule. Males and females showed heterogeneous associations with single and multiple thyroid nodule risk.Conclusions. The prevalence of thyroid nodules was relatively high. Age, female gender, and diabetes are positively associated with nodular thyroid disease. High LDL cholesterolemia is more likely to be associated with multiple thyroid sarcoidosis.
Flow Unit Model of Channel Sand Body and Its Effect on Remnant Oil Distribution: A Case Study of PI Formation in the Eastern Transition Zone of Daqing Oilfield
Authors: Zhang Yue , Ji You-liang , Wen Hui-jian , Ma Shi-zhong , Bai Dong-lai , Zhang Bin-chi , Xing Ben-kang
Published: February 2020

To analyze the effect of various flow units in a channel sand body on remnant oil, we established a connection between various flow unit types and the remnant oil distribution. Using stratigraphic correlation and the characterization of sedimentary microfacies, we describe a single sand body, point bar, and narrow channel located at the injection-production well pattern of well B2-60-FB271 in the Eastern transition zone of the Daqing Placanticline. Architecture models of the point bar and narrow channel are also established using a series of parameters from different measurement methods. Four types of flow units (strong-current limiting, medium-current limiting, weak-current limiting, and none-current limiting) in the point bar sand body were identified, whereas one type, unshielded unit, was identified in the narrow channel. Geological parameters, such as porosity, permeability, and pore-throat radius (r50), were optimized to quantitatively characterize these various flow units. Samples were obtained from well B2-60-FB271 and analyzed by the freeze-fluorescence thin section technique. According to the displacement degree, the microscopic remnant oil was divided into three types: (1) free-state remnant oil, (2) semi-free-state remnant oil, and (3) bound-state remnant oil. We found that the strong-current limiting flow unit in the point bar is the enrichment area of free-state microscopic remnant oil and that the medium-current limiting and weak-current limiting flow units also have relatively high free microscopic remnant oil. These constitute the remaining oil enrichment areas in the study area.
Ibrutinib-Induced Vasculitis in a Patient with Metastatic Colon Cancer Treated in Combination with Cetuximab
Authors: Chi Jeffrey , Park Jennifer , Saif Muhammad Wasif
Published: February 2020

Combination therapy with ibrutinib and cetuximab is being studied in a phase 1b/2 trial in patients with advanced gastrointestinal and genitourinary malignancies. Rash is a common cutaneous adverse effect for both medications. Ibrutinib is a Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor approved for the treatment of several hematologic malignancies. The rash can be asymptomatic, nonpalpable, mild skin eruption, or palpable purpuric rash. A rarer panniculitis form has also been reported. Cetuximab, an epidermal growth factor (EGFR) inhibitor, approved for treatment in head and neck and advanced gastrointestinal malignancies is also known to cause acneiform rash in majority of patients. The rash is due to inhibition of EGFR in the basal keratinocytes and hair follicles. In the case of ibrutinib, the off-target effects on EGFR, c-kit, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) are thought to be responsible for the cutaneous eruption of various forms of rash. The combination therapy with the BTK inhibitor and a direct EGFR inhibitor may potentiate the rash inducing effects of the drugs. Here, we describe a case of vasculitis in a patient with metastatic colon cancer who received both ibrutinib and cetuximab on a phase Ib/II clinical trial.
Evaluation of the Healing Effects of Hypericum perforatum and Curcumin on Burn Wounds in Rats
Authors: Seyhan Nevra
Published: February 2020

Background. For centuries, medicinal plants have been extensively used in wound healing of burn injuries. The aim of this study is to analyze comparatively the effects of curcumin and Hypericum perforatum (HP) on second‐degree burn wounds in rats. Materials and Methods. This experimental study was conducted on 24 male Sprague‐Dawley rats with second‐degree burns. The animals were randomly divided into three groups. The burns were treated with curcumin (Group B) and Hypericum perforatum (Group C) with daily application. Group A was considered as the control group and received no medication. Histological parameters, reepithelization, granulation tissue formation, inflammation, and angiogenesis were assessed after the scar biopsy at the end of research. Results. All histological parameters of the control group showed statistically significant difference than the other groups (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between Groups B and C in terms of reepithelization and inflammation (p = 0.351, p = 0.067). In the curcumin group compared with the HP group, a significant difference was observed for two parameters of fibrosis and angiogenesis (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Both curcumin and Hypericum perforatum oil are effective in burn wound healing. Our findings showed a better quality of healing in curcumin‐treated rats.
Downregulation of MicroRNA-206 Alleviates the Sublethal Oxidative Stress-Induced Premature Senescence and Dysfunction in Mesenchymal Stem Cells via Targeting Alpl
Authors: Liu Xuan , Yang Ziying , Meng Qingyou , Chen Yueqiu , Shao Lianbo , Li Jingjing , Chen Yihuan , Shen Zhenya
Published: February 2020

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown great promise in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine; however, the regenerative capacity of senescent MSCs is greatly reduced, thus exhibiting limited therapy potential. Previous studies uncovered that microRNA-206 (miR-206) could largely regulate cell functions, including cell proliferation, survival, and apoptosis, but whether miR-206 is involved in the senescent process of MSCs remains unknown. In this study, we mainly elucidated the effects of miR-206 on MSC senescence and the underlying mechanism. We discovered that miR-206 was upregulated in the senescent MSCs induced by H2O2, and abrogation of miR-206 could alleviate this tendency. Besides, we determined that by targeting Alpl, miR-206 could ameliorate the impaired migration and paracrine function in MSCs reduced by H2O2. In vivo study, we revealed that inhibition of miR-206 in senescent MSCs could effectively protect their potential for myocardial infarction treatment in a rat MI model. In summary, we examined that inhibition of miR-206 in MSCs can alleviate H2O2-induced senescence and dysfunction, thus protecting its therapeutic potential.