bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comprehensive Study on Hydroxyl Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes Used as Catalysts for VO2+/VO2+ Reaction in Vanadium Redox Flow Battery
Authors: Li Qiang , Bai Anyu , Qu Zeqiang , Zhang Tianyu , Li Jie , Zhang Xiaochen , Yu Mingfu , Xue Zhichao , Sun Hong
Published: December 2019

A comprehensive study on the hydroxyl multiwalled carbon nanotubes (hydroxyl MWCNTs) as catalysts in a positive reaction was performed to improve the efficiency of the vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB). The physicochemical properties of the hydroxyl MWCNT-modified electrode were characterized by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), conductivity measurement, Brunner–Emmet–Teller (BET) measurement, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis, cyclic voltammetry (CV) tests, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis, and charge-discharge tests. The prepared composite electrode possesses a huge amount of oxygen-containing groups, high-specific surface area, high electrical conductivity, and high catalytic activity towards the VO2+/VO2+ reaction based on physicochemical characterization. The hydroxyl MWCNT-modified graphite felt (hydroxyl MWCNTs/GF) shows the best cell performance with the energy efficiency of 79.74% and remains in high stability after 50 cycles. The improved cell performance is probably ascribed to the increase in active sites, fast charge transfer, and mass transfer rate of the introduced hydroxyl MWCNTs.
A Fracture Criterion for Prediction of Fracture Initiation of Metal Materials at Various Stress States for Nuclear Waste Storage
Authors: Li Zhihui , Yang Xue , Tang Anmin
Published: November 2019

A fracture criterion is newly proposed to evaluate fracture behavior and predict fracture initiation of metal materials in different complicated stress states for four different fracture mechanisms including quasicleavage fracture, normal fracture with void, shear fracture with void, and shear fracture without void. The dominant factors of these four different mechanisms are distinct, so it is impossible to capture all features of fracture initiation under different stress states with a single criterion, and different functions are necessary to predict fracture initiation of different mechanisms. In the new fracture criterion, different branches of the fracture criterion have been proposed corresponding to different fracture mechanisms. Quasicleavage fracture and normal fracture with void are described as a function of the principal stress, shear fracture with void is a function of the stress triaxiality and maximal shear stress, and shear fracture without void is only controlled by the maximal shear stress. The new fracture criterion is applied to predict the fracture initiation site and the fracture direction of nodular cast iron QT400-15 in combined tension-torsion tests. Predicted results are compared with experimental results to validate the performance of the new criterion in the intermediate stress triaxiality between 0 and 1/3. The new criterion is also applied to predict the crack initiation site and the direction of crack initiation of LY12 aluminium alloy and HY130 mild steel in mixed mode fracture tests to validate the performance of the new criterion in the high stress triaxiality. The new fracture criterion gives consistent results for these materials in a wide stress triaxiality range. It is shown that the new fracture criterion is a better supplement to the deficiency of fracture mechanics and also a better amendment to traditional strength theory in complicated stress states. Therefore, the new fracture criterion is recommended to be utilized to evaluate the fracture initiation of metal structures in nuclear waste storage and other engineering applications.
Impact of Resected Gastric Volume on Postoperative Weight Loss after Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: D’Ugo Stefano , Bellato Vittoria , Bianciardi Emanuela , Gentileschi Paolo
Published: December 2019

Among the bariatric surgery community, it has recently emerged the idea of a possible association between resected gastric volume (RGV) and weight loss after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). If the size of the sleeve depends on the bougie caliber, the resected volume of the stomach remains something which is not possible to standardize. The aim of the study was to investigate a possible relationship between RGV and weight loss after LSG. We developed a mathematical method to calculate the RGV, based on the specimen size removed during LSG. Ninety-one patients (63 females and 28 males) affected by morbid obesity were included in the study. They underwent LSG between 2014 and 2016. Mean preoperative BMI was 45±6.4. At 1 year after LSG, the mean BMI was 30±5.3 and the EWL% was 65±20.2. The statistical analysis of RGV, BMI, and EWL% at 1-year follow-up did not find any correlation between the volume of stomach removed and the weight loss after LSG. Further studies in the future should clarify the potential role of RGV during LSG. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03938025.
Protective Effect of the MCP-1 Gene Haplotype against Schizophrenia
Authors: Saoud Hana , Inoubli Oumaima , Ben Fredj Sihem , Hassine Mohsen , Ben Mohamed Bochra , Gaha Lotfi , Hadj Jrad Besma Bel
Published: December 2019

While cytokines and their genetic variants have been intensively studied in schizophrenia, little attention has been focused on chemokines in the last years. The monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) is known to attract peripheral monocytes to the brain during an inflammatory reaction and to affect the T helper (Th) cell development by stimulating Th2 polarization. Owing to the neuroinflammation in schizophrenia and the variable level of MCP-1 in these patients’ sera, we proposed to analyze the impact of functional genetic variants of the MCP-1 gene (MCP-1-2518A/G (rs1024611), MCP-1-362G/C (rs2857656), and MCP-1 int1del554-567 (rs3917887)) in schizophrenic patients. We conducted a case-control study on a Tunisian population composed of 200 patients and 200 controls using RFLP-PCR. Our results indicated that the minor alleles (-2518G and Del554-567) were significantly more prevalent in controls than in patients (P=0.001/adjusted OR = 0.42,P=0.04/adjusted OR = 0.64), whereas, for -362C minor allele, increased risk of schizophrenia was revealed (P=0.001, adjusted OR = 2.38). In conclusion, we have identified the haplotype combination -2581G/-362G/int1del554-567 that could mediate protection against schizophrenia (P=0.0038, OR = 0.19) and the effect could result more strongly from the MCP-1 -2582G with -362G variants, whereas the effect of int1del554-567 may in part be explained by its LD with -362.
Circulating MicroRNAs as Novel Potential Biomarkers for Left Ventricular Remodeling in Postinfarction Heart Failure
Authors: Gao Guangyuan , Chen Weiwei , Liu Miao , Yan Xu , Yang Ping
Published: December 2019

Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) have been proposed as potential biomarkers for left ventricular remodeling in postinfarction heart failure (HF). However, the diagnostic reproducibility of the use of circulating miRNAs may be affected by the temporal expression of miRNAs following myocardial infarction (MI). In the current study, using a MI-induced HF rat cohort (4-, 8-, and 12-week post-MI groups), we investigated the temporal expression of plasma miRNAs during the development of left ventricular remodeling. The plasma miRNA expression profile was obtained using miRNA sequencing. The expression of candidate miRNAs in plasma and tissues was examined with real-time PCR. Target genes of candidate miRNAs were predicted using a parallel miRNA-messenger RNA expression profiling approach. The value of plasma miRNAs as biomarkers for left ventricular remodeling was evaluated in patients with postinfarction HF (n=32) and control patients with stable angina and without significant coronary lesions and HF (n=16) with real-time PCR. Although the expression levels of miR-20a-5p, miR-340-5p, and let-7i-5p were temporally regulated in plasma, myocardium, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells, the expression levels of plasma miRNAs, especially miR-20a-5p, were associated with the development of left ventricular remodeling in the postinfarction HF rat cohort. The target genes of these 3 miRNAs were associated with the mechanistic target of rapamycin, nuclear factor-κB, tumour necrosis factor, apoptosis, and p53 signaling pathways. Additionally, the plasma levels of miR-20a-5p, miR-340-5p, and let-7i-5p were significantly increased in patients with postinfarction HF. However, only the expression levels of miR-20a-5p presented significant positive correlations with left ventricular internal end diastolic dimension and left ventricular end diastolic volume. In conclusion, the expression levels of plasma miR-20a-5p were significantly associated with the degree of left ventricular dilatation, and plasma miR-20a-5p may be a potential biomarker for postinfarction left ventricular remodeling.
The Effect of Acupoint Application of Sinomenine for Rheumatoid Arthritis Measured by Microdialysis and UPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Wang Rui , Yang Jing , Liu Yuxuan , Guan Bixi , Feng Qun , Wang Yanhong , Lv Shaowa , Yang Zhixin , Li Yongji
Published: November 2019

Objective. This study aimed to investigate the treatment effects of acupoint application of sinomenine in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA models were constructed using male New Zealand rabbits. Methods. The rabbits were randomly divided into a blank control group and four experimental groups as follows: ST 36 group (acupoint application of sinomenine at Zusanli); GB 34 group (acupoint application of sinomenine at Yanglingquan); knee-joint group (application directly at the site of the knee joint); and oral administration group (sinomenine administered by gavage). In all rabbits, microdialysis was applied at the knee joint to obtain samples. Pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) parameters were measured by ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), and the PK/PD models were established according to the parameters derived. Results. Sinomenine concentration was in the range of 0.832–208 ng/mL, and the peak area showed a good linear relationship with the regression equation of y = 539.64x + 953.81; r = 0.9998. Moreover, good specificity and precision were obtained for the LC-MS/MS method of sinomenine evaluation in the microdialysate samples. The PK analysis showed that the sinomenine effect time was longer in the ST 36 group (area under the time-concentration curve (AUC): 12683.81 h·ng/ml and Tmax: 6.21 h) than in the other groups. Arginine and citrulline were selected as the indices for PD, and in the analysis of parameters for PK/PD, the highest value of Emax and the lowest value of ke0 were obtained in the ST 36 group. Conclusion. Acupoint application of sinomenine at ST 36 has potential for use in patients with RA by enabling enhanced and prolonged treatment effects.
Schinus terebinthifoliusEssential Oil Attenuates Scopolamine-Induced Memory Deficits via Cholinergic Modulation and Antioxidant Properties in a Zebrafish Model
Authors: Todirascu-Ciornea Elena , El-Nashar Heba A.S. , Mostafa Nada M. , Eldahshan Omayma A. , Boiangiu Razvan Stefan , Dumitru Gabriela , Hritcu Lucian , Singab Abdel Nasser B.
Published: December 2019

Schinus terebinthifoliusis a plant well recognized for its therapeutic profile such as anti-inflammatory and antitumor activities, promoting antibacterial activity and antioxidant and antidiabetic properties. This study aimed at examining whetherSchinus terebinthifoliusmemory-enhancing activities are mediated by cholinergic and brain antioxidant systems in a scopolamine zebrafish model.Schinus terebinthifoliusessential oil (10, 25, and 50 μL/L) was delivered to zebrafish by immersion in water for 8 days. Memory deficits were induced by scopolamine (100 μM) administration. Zebrafish were divided into seven groups (n = 15/group): vehicle group, scopolamine (100 μM) group,Schinus terebinthifoliusessential oil groups (STF; 10, 25, and 50 μL/L), the imipramine group (IMP; 20 mg/L, as the positive control in the NTT test), and the donepezil group (DP; 10 mg/L, as the positive control in the Y-maze test). Memory status was estimated by the novel tank diving test (NTT) and the Y-maze test and finally was validated by comparison with imipramine (20 mg/L) and donepezil (10 mg/L). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to detect oil compounds. Brain levels of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and antioxidant enzymes were measured. After being exposed toSchinus terebinthifoliusessential oil, the scopolamine zebrafish exhibited an improvement of memory processes in the NTT and Y-maze tests. The essential oil attenuated the elevated level of AChE and brain oxidative stress.Schinus terebinthifoliusessential oil was found to support memory formation through the inhibition of the AChE activity and decreasing oxidative stress in the scopolamine-treated zebrafish brains.
Ligustrazine Prevents Intervertebral Disc Degeneration via Suppression of Aberrant TGFβ Activation in Nucleus Pulposus Cells
Authors: Liu Shufen , Cheng Yuhao , Tan Yuqi , Dong Jingcheng , Bian Qin
Published: December 2019

Objectives. Aberrant transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) activation is detrimental to both nucleus pulposus (NP) cells and cartilage endplates (CEPs), which can lead to intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Ligustrazine (LIG) reduces the expression of inflammatory factors and TGFβ1 in hypertrophic CEP to prevent IDD. In this study, we investigate the effects of LIG on NP cells and the TGFβ signaling. Design. LIG was injected to the lumbar spinal instability (LSI) mouse model. The effect of LIG was evaluated by intervertebral disc (IVD) score in the LSI mouse model. The expression of activated TGFβ was examined using immunostaining with pSmad2/3 antibody. The upright posture (UP) rat model was also treated and evaluated in the same manner to assess the effect of LIG. In ex vivo study, IVDs from four-week old mice were isolated and treated with 10−5, 10−6, and 10−7 M of LIG. We used western blot to detect activated TGFβ expression. TGFβ-treated human nucleus pulposus cells (HNPCs) were cotreated with optimized dose of LIG in vitro. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to determine pSmad2/3, connective tissue growth factor (CCN2), and aggrecan (ACAN) expression levels. Results. IVD score and the percentage of pSmad2/3+ NP cells were low in LIG-treated LSI mice in comparison with LSI mice, but close to the levels in the Sham group. Similarly, LIG reduced the overexpression of TGFβ1 in NP cells. The inhibitory effect of LIG was dose dependent. A dose of 10−5 M LIG not only strongly attenuated Smad2/3 phosphorylation in TGFβ-treated IVD ex vivo but also suppressed pSmad2/3, CCN2, and ACAN expression in TGFβ-treated NP cells in vitro. Conclusions. LIG prevents IDD via suppression of TGFβ overactivation in NP cells.
Static Magnetic Field Accelerates Diabetic Wound Healing by Facilitating Resolution of Inflammation
Authors: Shang Wenlong , Chen Guilin , Li Yinxiu , Zhuo Yujuan , Wang Yuhong , Fang Zhicai , Yu Ying , Ren Huiwen
Published: December 2019

Impaired wound healing is commonly encountered in patients with diabetes mellitus, which may lead to severe outcomes such as amputation, if untreated timely. Macrophage plays a critical role in the healing process including the resolution phase. Although magnetic therapy is known to improve microcirculation, its effect on wound healing remains uncertain. In the present study, we found that 0.6 T static magnetic field (SMF) significantly accelerated wound closure and elevated reepithelialization and revascularization in diabetic mice. Notably, SMF promoted the wound healing by skewing the macrophage polarization towards M2 phenotype, thus facilitating the resolution of inflammation. In addition, SMF upregulated anti-inflammatory gene expression via activating STAT6 and suppressing STAT1 in macrophage. Taken together, our results indicate that SMF may be a promising adjuvant therapeutic tool for treating diabetic wounds.
A Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Conditioned Medium/Chitosan/Collagen/β-Glycerophosphate Thermosensitive Hydrogel Promotes Burn Injury Healing in Mice
Authors: Zhou Panpan , Li Xue , Zhang Bing , Shi Qing , Li Dong , Ju Xiuli
Published: December 2019

We investigated the effects of a human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium (MSC-CM)/chitosan/collagen/β-glycerophosphate (β-GP) thermosensitive hydrogel (MSC-CM/hydrogel) on mice with third-degree burns. MSC-CM was collected and mixed with chitosan, collagen, and β-GP to generate the thermosensitive MSC-CM/hydrogel, which was stored in the liquid phase at 4°C. The wounds of established third-degree burned mice were then externally covered with the MSC-CM/hydrogel, which formed a gel when placed on the wounds at physiological temperature. Injured mice in three additional groups were treated with unconditioned MSC medium (UM), MSC-CM, or UM/chitosan/collagen/β-GP thermosensitive hydrogels. Skin wound samples were obtained 4, 14, and 28 days after burning for further analysis by hematoxylin and eosin and Ki-67 staining. Wound healing rates and times, in addition to immunohistochemical results, were then compared and analyzed among the four groups. Application of the MSC-CM/hydrogel shortened healing time, limited the area of inflammation, enhanced reepithelialization, promoted the formation of high-quality, well-vascularized granulation tissue, and attenuated the formation of fibrotic and hypertrophic scar tissue. In summary, MSC-CM/hydrogel effectively promotes wound healing in third-degree burned mice.
Analysis on Precipitable Water Vapor over the Tibetan Plateau Using FengYun-3A Medium Resolution Spectral Imager Products
Authors: Gong Shaoqi , Hagan Daniel F. T. , Zhang Cunjie
Published: November 2019

The Tibetan Plateau is the largest and highest plateau in the world, and its complex terrain affects the distribution of precipitable water vapor (PWV) in the atmosphere, which plays an important role in the weather and climate of East Asia. In this paper, the characteristics of PWV over the Tibetan Plateau are studied using the FengYun-3A Medium Resolution Spectral Imager (MERSI) water vapor products, which are retrieved from the MERSI raw images of Chinese second-generation polar orbit meteorological satellite. Firstly, the accuracy of the MERSI 5-minute water vapor product is validated using three referenced water vapor data from TERRA/MODIS, ground-based GPS, and AERONET sun photometer over the Tibetan Plateau. Then, the spatial distribution and seasonal variation of PWV over the plateau are analyzed, and the effects of topographic factors on PWV are discussed. The results indicate that the MERSI 5-minute water vapor product has a good accuracy over the Tibetan Plateau, which the mean absolute error of MERSI water vapor product is in the range of 28.91%-37.54%, the mean absolute error range between 1.87 and 2.76 millimeter (mm), and the mean bias is between -1.14 and 0.64 mm comparing three referenced data. The PWV content appears as a typical spatial pattern over the Tibetan Plateau where there is a decrease from east to west of the Tibetan Plateau with increasing elevation, with the highest values over the south of Tibet. A second pattern also appears over the eastern part of the Tibetan Plateau, where the PWV content in the Qaidam Basin and the south of Tarim Basin are also considerably high. The seasonal variation of PWV content over the Tibetan Plateau presents to be highest in summer, followed by autumn and spring, and lowest in winter. The PWV content changes periodically during the year, which fits with a quadratic polynomial over monthly scales. The topographical factors of the Tibetan Plateau were found to affect the water vapor, where the altitude and latitude are negatively correlated with water vapor, while the slope and longitude show a positive correlation with water vapor; however, the aspect does not appear to have any significant influence on water vapor.
PTEN Inhibits Inflammatory Bone Loss in Ligature-Induced Periodontitis via IL1 and TNF-α
Authors: Fu Chuanyun , Wei Zhimin , Zhang Dongsheng
Published: December 2019

Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) is a critical regulator of tumorigenesis and bone remodeling, which is also found expressed in the periodontal tissues. Periodontitis is one of the most common oral diseases and associated with alveolar bone resorption and tooth loosening in adults. However, the functional relevance of PTEN in periodontitis remains unclear. Here, we report that PTEN plays an essential role in periodontitis. The in vivo results of our study showed a significant decrease of PTEN in the ligature-induced mouse periodontitis model. The function of PTEN in the macrophages was shown to be associated with inflammatory factors interleukin 1 (IL1) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) by using overexpression and silence methods. Further mechanistic studies indicated lack of PTEN-activated IL1 and TNF-α, which increased the number of osteoclasts and led to alveolar bone erosion and loss. Moreover, PTEN nanoparticles could directly inhibit the inflammatory process and bone erosion, suggesting a controlling role of PTEN during bone remodeling. All these data identified the novel function of PTEN as a key factor in periodontitis and bone remodeling.
Incidental Finding of Dextrocardia with Situs Inversus in a 59-Year-Old Man
Authors: Edzie Emmanuel Kobina Mesi , Dzefi-Tettey Klenam , Cudjoe Obed , Gorleku Philip Narteh , Adu Patrick
Published: December 2019

Dextrocardia with situs inversus is a rare congenital anomaly, which is characterized by right-sided heart apex and inversely rotated visceral organs of the abdomen. We report an unusual case of dextrocardia with situs inversus in a 59-year-old man, referred for a pelvic ultrasound scan because of symptoms of lower urinary tract obstruction and after a fairly normal prostate specific antigen (PSA) value. A diagnosis of enlarged prostate gland with a prominent median lobe and significant residual urine volume was made, which necessitated the examination of the kidneys for hydronephrosis, resulting in the incidental finding of situs inversus. On further investigation, the diagnosis of dextrocardia with situs inversus was made. Physicians should look out for this anomaly primarily because it may be associated with other conditions like primary ciliary dyskinesia so appropriate interventions are offered to reduce morbidities and mortality.
Metaheuristic Optimization of Fractional Order Incremental Conductance (FO‐INC) Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)
Authors: Ammar Hossam Hassan , Azar Ahmad Taher , Shalaby Raafat , Mahmoud M. I.
Published: November 2019

This paper seeks to improve the photovoltaic (PV) system efficiency using metaheuristic, optimized fractional order incremental conductance (FO‐INC) control. The proposed FO‐INC controls the output voltage of the PV arrays to obtain maximum power point tracking (MPPT). Due to its simplicity and efficiency, the incremental conductance MPPT (INC‐MPPT) is one of the most popular algorithms used in the PV scheme. However, owing to the nonlinearity and fractional order (FO) nature of both PV and DC‐DC converters, the conventional INC algorithm provides a trade‐off between monitoring velocity and tracking precision. Fractional calculus is used to provide an enhanced dynamical model of the PV system to describe nonlinear characteristics. Moreover, three metaheuristic optimization techniques are applied; Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), and AntLion Optimizer (ALO) are used for tuning the FO parameters of the proposed INC‐MPPT. A MATLAB‐Simulink‐based model of the PV and optimization have been developed and simulated for different INC‐MPPT techniques. Different techniques aim to control the boost DC‐DC converter towards the MPP. The proposed optimization algorithms are, also, developed and implemented in MATLAB to tune the target parameters. Four performance indices are also introduced in this research to show the reliability of the comparative analysis of the proposed FO‐INC with metaheuristic optimization and the conventional INC‐MPPT algorithms when applied to a dynamical PV system under rapidly changing weather conditions. The simulation results show the effective performance of the proposed metaheuristic optimized FO‐INC as a MPPT control for different climatic conditions with disturbance rejection and robustness analysis.
A New Method of Evaluating the Symmetry of Movement Used to Assess the Gait of Patients after Unilateral Total Hip Replacement
Authors: Winiarski Slawomir , Rutkowska-Kucharska Alicja , Pozowski Andrzej , Aleksandrowicz Krzysztof
Published: December 2019

Purpose. We propose a new concept of symmetry, the symmetry function, as a continuous function of the percentage of differences between sides of body movement and normalised throughout the whole range of motion. The method is used to assess the dynamical symmetry of gait of patients after unilateral total hip replacement (asymmetric group) and healthy people (symmetric group) and also to reveal discrepancies between normal and abnormal movement patterns. Methods. The gait of twelve male patients (49.7±2.8 y), six weeks after unilateral total hip replacement (uTHR), was analysed against the gait of thirteen healthy men (36.1±3.1 y). The speed of healthy men was matched to the speed of the patients. Comparison of the affected limb in uTHR patients with the healthy limb of able-bodied men was carried out on the basis of the highest symmetry values in the sagittal plane. Results. In uTHR patients, the symmetry function provides information on the symmetry of movements in the whole range of motion in contrast to symmetry indices which are calculated for selected parameters or peak values. Research revealed average asymmetric discrepancies for pelvic tilt up to 250% for the entire gait cycle with a peak of approx. 400% at the end of the loading response and terminal swing phases. Asymmetry of gait observed in other joints was below 200% of the mean range of motion. Conclusions. Regions of the greatest asymmetry in pathological movements are usually different from the region of the greatest range of motion. Therefore, it is insufficient to measure symmetry only for selected regions during motion. The symmetry function is a simple method which can complement other robust methods in time series data evaluation and interpretation.
Comparative Study of Analytic Solution and Numerical Solution of Baseband Symbol Signal Based on Optimal Generic Function
Authors: Liu Mingxin , Xue Wei , Makarov Sergey B. , Qi Junwei , Li Beiming
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the optimal mathematical generic function model is established using the minimum out‐of‐band energy radiation criterion. Firstly, the energy limit conditions, boundary constraints, and peak‐to‐average ratio constraints are applied to the generic function model; thus, the analytical solutions are obtained under different parameters. Secondly, a single symbol signal energy constraint condition and boundary constraint condition are added to the generic function model; thus, the numerical solution of the different parameters is obtained. In the process of solving the analytical solution, the partial solution process is simplified to solve the analytical solution, and there are also digital truncation problems. In addition, the corresponding order of the Lagrange differential equation increases by a multiple of 2 when the parameter n increases, which makes the solution extremely complicated or even impossible to solve. The numerical solution is in line with the current development trend of digital communication, and there is no need to simplify the solution process in the process of solving the numerical solution. When the parameter n and the Fourier series m take different values, the obtained symbol signals can also meet the needs of different communication occasions. The relevant data of the above research process were solved by a MATLAB software simulation, which proves the correctness of the method and the superiority of the numerical method.
The Emerging Role of GC-MSCs in the Gastric Cancer Microenvironment: From Tumor to Tumor Immunity
Authors: Pan Zhaoji , Tian Yiqing , Niu Guoping , Cao Chengsong
Published: December 2019

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been declared to not only participate in wound repair but also affect tumor progression. Tumor-associated MSCs, directly existing in the tumor microenvironment, play a critical role in tumor initiation, progression, and development. And different tumor-derived MSCs have their own unique characteristics. In this review, we mainly describe and discuss recent advances in our understanding of the emerging role of gastric cancer-derived MSC-like cells (GC-MSCs) in regulating gastric cancer progression and development, as well as the bidirectional influence between GC-MSCs and immune cells of the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, we also discuss the potential biomarker and therapeutic role of GC-MSCs. It is anticipated that new and deep insights into the functionality of GC-MSCs and the underlying mechanisms will promote the novel and promising therapeutic strategies against gastric cancer.
Impact of Cell Size Effect on Nutrient‐Phytoplankton Dynamics
Authors: Liao Tiancai , Yu Hengguo , Dai Chuanjun , Zhao Min
Published: November 2019

In this paper, a nutrient‐phytoplankton model, which is described by a system of ordinary differential equations incorporating the effect of cell size, and its corresponding stochastic differential equation version are studied analytically and numerically. A key advantage of considering cell size effect is that it can more accurately reveal the intrinsic law of interaction between nutrient and phytoplankton. The main purpose of this paper is to research how cell size affects the nutrient‐phytoplankton dynamics within the deterministic and stochastic environments. Mathematically, we show that the existence and stability of the equilibria in the deterministic model can be determined by cell size: the smaller or larger cell size can lead to the disappearance of the positive equilibrium, but the boundary equilibrium always exists and is globally asymptotically stable; the intermediate cell size is capable to drive the positive equilibrium to appear and be globally asymptotically stable, whereas the boundary equilibrium becomes unstable. In the case of the stochastic model, the stochastic dynamics including the stochastic extinction, persistence in the mean, and the existence of ergodic stationary distribution is found to be largely dependent on cell size and noise intensity. Ecologically, via numerical simulations, it is found that the smaller cell size or larger cell size can result in the extinction of phytoplankton, which is similar to the effect of larger random environmental fluctuations on the phytoplankton. More interestingly, it is discovered that the intermediate cell size is the optimal size for promoting the growth of phytoplankton, but increasing appropriately the cell size can rapidly reduce phytoplankton density and nutrient concentrations at the same time, which provides a possible strategy for biological control of algal blooms.
The Mating Call of the Terrestrial Toad, Rhinella arenarum, as a Cue for Spatial Orientation and Its Associated Brain Activity
Authors: Sotelo María I. , Bingman Verner P. , Muzio Rubén N.
Published: November 2019

Acoustic communication is essential for reproduction and predator avoidance in many anuran species. For example, mating calls are generally produced by males and represent a conspicuous communication signal employed during the breeding season. Although anuran mating calls have been largely studied to analyze content and phonotaxis toward choruses, they are rarely discussed as sources of information guiding spatial behavior in broader contexts. This is striking if we consider that previous studies have shown anurans to be impressive navigators. In the current study, we investigated whether terrestrial toad (Rhinella arenarum) males can use a mating call as a spatial cue to locate a water reward in a laboratory maze. Male toads could indeed learn the location of a reward guided by a mating call. This navigational ability, as indicated by c-Fos, was associated with greater neuronal activity in the telencephalic hippocampal formation (HF; also referred to in amphibians as medial pallium), the medial septum (MS), and the central amygdala (CeA). HF and MS are telencephalic structures associated with spatial navigation in mammals and other vertebrates. The CeA, by contrast, has been studied in the context of acoustic processing and communication in other amphibian species. The results are discussed in the framework of an evolutionary conserved, HF-septal spatial-cognitive network shared by amphibians and mammals.
Pressure-Induced Alopecia: Presence of Thin Hairs as a Trichoscopic Clue for the Diagnosis
Authors: Tortelly Violeta Duarte , Melo Daniel Fernandes , Ghedin Beatriz Serafim , Lima Caren dos Santos , Garcia Thais Ura , Barreto Taynara de Mattos
Published: November 2019

Pressure-induced alopecia (PA) is an unusual pattern of circumscribed hair loss that occurs after ischemic changes on the scalp. Trichoscopic findings described in the literature are scarce, nonspecific, and include black dots, broken hairs, circle hairs, and erythema. However, we report 3 cases of PA in which trichoscopy also showed many vellus and thin hairs. Possibly, the maintenance of these hair shafts may be explained by the more superficial insertion of their bulbs on the skin and/or their lower metabolic rates, making them suffer less from local hypoxia. Therefore, the authors suggest that these relevant signs should be added as a clue for the diagnosis of PA in doubtful cases.
Estimation of Homocysteine Level and Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) Gene and Cystathionine B Synthase (CBS) Gene Polymorphisms in Vitiligo Patients
Authors: El Tahlawi Samar , Abdel Halim Dalia M. , El Hadidi Heba , Fawzy Marwa M. , Hegazy Rehab A. , Ezzat Marwa , Elgohary Sherin M. , Shaker Olfat , Sayed Khadiga S.
Published: November 2019

Background: Vitiligo is an acquired, multifactorial disorder of the skin and mucous membranes. An elevated homocysteine level has been described in vitiligo. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) and cystathionine B synthase (CBS) are major determinants of the homocysteine metabolism. Objectives: Determine serum homocysteine levels in vitiligo patients as well as the association between MTHFR (C677T, A1298C) and CBSgene polymorphisms and susceptibility to vitiligo in a sample of those populations. Methods: Homocysteine levels were estimated by radioimmunoassay while MTHFR (C677T, A1298C) and CBSgene polymorphisms were detected by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism technique in 100 vitiligo patients and 80 healthy controls. Results: The homocysteine level was significantly higher in vitiligo patients than controls (p = 0.000). Significant differences in the genotype and allele distributions of single nucleotide polymorphisms of the MTHFR (C677T, A1298C) with the mutant genotypes are more common in the controls than patients (p = 0.001, 0.029, respectively). CBS gene mutant genotypes and alleles are more common in vitiligo patients than controls (p = 0.002). Conclusion: CBSand MTHFRgene polymorphisms may play a major role in the genetic susceptibility to vitiligo.
Advancements to the Axolotl Model for Regeneration and Aging
Authors: Vieira Warren A. , Wells Kaylee M. , McCusker Catherine D.
Published: November 2019

Loss of regenerative capacity is a normal part of aging. However, some organisms, such as the Mexican axolotl, retain striking regenerative capacity throughout their lives. Moreover, the development of age-related diseases is rare in this organism. In this review, we will explore how axolotls are used as a model system to study regenerative processes, the exciting new technological advancements now available for this model, and how we can apply the lessons we learn from studying regeneration in the axolotl to understand, and potentially treat, age-related decline in humans.
Advances in the Treatment of Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory Pathways in Gastrointestinal Diseases by Electrical Stimulation of Vagus Nerve
Authors: Lei Wei , Duan Zhijun
Published: December 2019

Background: The cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAIP) has been proposed as a key mechanism by which the brain, through the vagus nerve (VN), modulates the immune system in the body. Recent studies of VN stimulation (VNS) in vivo systems have shown that it plays an anti-inflammatory role through CAIP. Inflammatory diseases in the gastrointestinal tract are frequent and difficult to treat. Summary: The mechanism of the anti-inflammatory effect of VNS through CAIP is not fully known. The current review covers anatomy, molecular mechanisms, and the application in gastrointestinal diseases of the vagal CAIP. Key Messages: CAIP bridges immune and nervous systems and plays pleiotropic roles in modulating inflammation in animal models by targeting different immune, proinflammatory, epithelial and endothelial cells, and signaling pathways. Numerous animal studies have shown beneficial effects of stimulation of this pathway in models of inflammatory diseases, either through (electrical) stimulation of the VN or pharmacological approaches. In this review, we focus on the anti-inflammatory benefits of VNS as a means of providing new insights into treating inflammation-related gastrointestinal diseases, as exemplified by those described herein.
Effects of Guidelines for Gastroenterological Endoscopy in Patients Undergoing Antithrombotic Treatment on Postoperative Bleeding after Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Early Gastric Cancer: A Propensity Score-Matching Analysis
Authors: Terasaki Kei , Dohi Osamu , Naito Yuji , Azuma Yuka , Ishida Tsugitaka , Kitae Hiroaki , Matsumura Shinya , Ogita Kazuyuki , Takayama Shun , Mizuno Naoki , Nakano Takahiro , Iwai Naoto , Ueda Tomohiro , Hirose Ryohei , Inoue Ken , Yoshida Naohisa , Kamada Kazuhiro , Uchiyama Kazuhiko , Ishikawa Takeshi , Takagi Tomohisa , Konishi Hideyuki , Itoh Yoshito
Published: November 2019

Background: Management of antithrombotic agents during endoscopic treatment changed after the publishing of ­Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society guidelines for gastroenterological endoscopy in antithrombotic drug users (GL-2012). Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the effect of implementing antithrombotic agent management guidelines (GL-2012) on postoperative bleeding after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early gastric cancer (EGC) and on the prevention of thromboembolic events. Methods: A total of 1,264 patients who underwent ESD for EGC at Kyoto Prefectural University Hospital between June 2002 and March 2017 were enrolled and divided into 2 groups: 621 patients before the publication of GL-2012 (Pre-GL group) and 643 patients after (Post-GL group). Relationships between postoperative bleeding and various clinicopathological factors in each group were investigated through propensity score-matching analysis. Results: In the Pre-GL group, antihypertensive agent use (p < 0.01) and upper third of the stomach (p < 0.01) were significantly related to postoperative bleeding in univariate analysis. Antihypertensive agent use (OR 4.6, 95% CI 1.6–12.8) and upper third of the stomach (OR 4.9, 95% CI 1.8–13.4) were significantly related to postoperative bleeding in multivariate analysis. In the Post-GL group, antihypertensive agent use (p < 0.01), dual antiplatelet agents use (p < 0.01), anticoagulant agents use (p < 0.01), and heparin replacement therapy (p < 0.01) were significantly related to postoperative bleeding in univariate analysis. Antihypertensive agent use (OR 3.4, 95% CI 1.1–9.6), dual antiplatelet agents (OR 12.3, 95% CI 2.4–63.0), and heparin replacement therapy (OR 10.2, 95% CI 2.5–41.5) were significantly related to postoperative bleeding in multivariate analysis. Conclusions: The adherence to GL-2012 might reduce risk of thromboembolic events. On the other hand, dual antiplatelet agents therapy and heparin replacement therapy were the new independent risk factors for ESD postoperative bleeding in EGC after GL-2012. Especially as for heparin replacement therapy, uninterrupted warfarin or a temporary short interruption of direct oral anticoagulants without heparin replacement therapy might be recommended rather than heparin replacement therapy.
Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D Levels in Patients with Autoimmune Hypothyroidism and Their Correlation with Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies
Authors: Aktaş Hanife Şerife
Published: December 2019

Background: This study was designed to investigate the vitamin D (vit-D) and vitamin B12 (vit-B12) levels and their correlation with anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies in patients with autoimmune hypothyroidism. Methods: A total of 130 patients diagnosed with autoimmune hypothyroidism were included in the study retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups as those having vit-B12 levels below 200 pg/mL (n = 60) and vit-B12 levels equal to or above 200 pg/mL (n = 70). These two groups were compared in terms of age, sex, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free-T4 (FT4), vit-D, and anti-TPO. The correlation between vit-B12 and anti-TPO levels was also investigated in these groups. Patients were then divided into four groups according to their vit-D levels. Patients with normal vit-D levels (25[OH]D >30 ng/mL; n = 5), those with vit-D insufficiency (20–30 mg/mL; n = 9), those with vit-D deficiency (10–20 ng/mL; n = 43), and those with severe vit-D deficiency (<10 ng/mL; n = 73). These four groups were compared in terms of age, gender, TSH, FT4, vit-B12, and anti-TPO levels. In addition, the correlation between levels of vit-D and anti-TPO was also investigated. Results: We found that vit-B12 deficiency and vit-D deficiency were associated with autoimmune hypothyroidism, and that there was a negative correlation between vit-B12 and vit-D levels and anti-TPO antibodies in these patients. Conclusion: In patients with autoimmune hypothyroidism, vit-D and vit-B12 deficiency should be investigated at the time of diagnosis and periodically on follow-ups.
ВМІСТ ІНТЕРЛЕЙКІНУ-10 У СИРОВАТЦІ КРОВІ ПРИ ОПЕРІЗУВАЛЬНОМУ ГЕРПЕСІ У ДОРОСЛИХ ЗАЛЕЖНО ВІД ПОЛІМОРФІЗМУ ЙОГО ГЕНА
Authors: Onishchenko N. V. , Riabokon O. V. , Kamyshnyi O. M.
Published: December 2019

Мета роботи – визначити роль інтерлейкіну-10 у крові залежно від поліморфізму його гена (rs1800896) при оперізувальному герпесі у дорослих.

Матеріали і методи. Обстежено 50 дорослих хворих на оперізувальний герпес. Молекулярно-генетичне визначення гена ІЛ-10 (rs1800896) проводили методом полімеразної ланцюгової реакції у режимі реального часу. Вміст ІЛ-10 у сироватці крові визначали імуноферментним методом.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. У разі генотипу ТТ гена ІЛ-10 частіше реєструвався тяжкий перебіг оперізувального герпесу (0,933 проти 0,6, χ2=5,56, OR=9,33, 95 % CI=1.10-79.21), що характеризувався вищим (Р<0,05) вмістом ІЛ-10 у сироватці крові. Поліморфізм гена, що кодує ІЛ-10 (rs1800896), впливав на рівень підвищення цього цитокіна у сироватці крові як на етапі госпіталізації (τ=0,33, P=0,0036), так і при виписуванні зі стаціонару (τ=0,34, Р=0,0034). Генотип ТТ асоціювався з високими шансами розвитку ускладненого перебігу захворювання (0,784 проти 0,462, χ2=4,76, OR=4,23, 95 % CI=1.10-16.19), проте не впливав на спектр ускладнень (Р>0,05). За наявності ускладнень вміст ІЛ-10 у сироватці крові хворих у розпал захворювання був вищим (в 4,5 разу, Р<0,05), ніж у пацієнтів з неускладненим оперізувальним герпесом. При розвитку локалізованої форми оперізувального герпесу ураження трійчастого нерва частіше реєст­рувалося у хворих з ТТ генотипом (84,8 % проти 15,2 %, χ2=6,36, Р=0,02), проте динаміка змін вмісту ІЛ-10 у сироватці крові цих пацієнтів не залежала від локалізації уражень. Встановлено, що генотип СС гена ІЛ-10 (rs1800896) частіше виявлявся у хворих на оперізувальний герпес з рецидивним перебігом (0,75 проти 0,261, χ2=4,19, OR=8,5, 95 % CI=0,81-89,75). Вміст ІЛ-10 у сироватці крові хворих з рецидивним перебігом захворювання, на відміну від пацієнтів з первинною маніфестацією, характеризувався менш значущим його підвищенням (Р<0,05).

Висновки. Генотип ТТ гена ІЛ-10 асоціюється з високими шансами розвитку тяжкого ускладненого оперізувального герпесу у дорослих та вищим (Р<0,05) вмістом цитокіна в динаміці захворювання. Доведено вплив генетичного поліморфізму ІЛ-10 (rs1800896) на підвищення концентрації цього цитокіна на всіх етапах захворювання (Р<0,005). Генотип СС гена ІЛ-10 у дорослих хворих на оперізувальний герпес асоційований з високими шансами розвитку рецидивного перебігу захворювання (Р<0,05). Концентрація цитокіна у хворих з рецидивним перебігом оперізувального герпесу характеризується помірним його підвищенням (Р<0,05). Розвиток локалізованої форми захворювання з ураженням трійчастого нерва асоціюється з генотипом ТТ (Р<0,05). Концентрація ІЛ-10 у сироватці крові хворих з локалізованими формами оперізувального герпесу не залежить від локалізації уражень.
ВПЛИВ СТРЕПТОКОКА СЛИЗОВОЇ ОБОЛОНКИ НОСОРОТОГЛОТКИ НА ЦИТОКІНОВУ ВІДПОВІДЬ ДІТЕЙ, ХВОРИХ НА ІНФЕКЦІЙНИЙ МОНОНУКЛЕОЗ
Authors: Huz O. V. , Kuznietsov S. V.
Published: December 2019

Мета дослідження – встановити значення наявності стрептокока на слизовій оболонці носо- та ротоглотки в реакції інтерлейкінів крові дітей, хворих на інфекційний мононуклеоз (ІМ).

Пацієнти і методи. Під спостереженням перебувало 60 дітей у віці 3-7 років, хворих на ІМ, які лікувалися в обласній дитячій інфекційній клінічній лікарні м. Харкова. Діагноз ІМ підтверджували на основі позитивних результатів пошуку маркерів захворювання методами ІФА та ПЛР. У 30 дітей (перша група) при бактеріологічному дослідженні слизової оболонки носо- та ротоглотки виділено Streptococcus pyogenes в концентраціях 10-5 і вище. Друга група (30 дітей) – на слизовій оболонці носо- і ротоглотки стрептокок не був виявлений. Імунний статус хворих оцінювався за показниками рівнів інтерлейкінів 1β, 4, фактора некрозу пухлин (ФНП). Вміст інтерлейкінів у крові хворих визначали в гострий період (1-2-а доба захворювання) і в період ранньої реконвалесценції (7-10-а доба).

Результати досліджень і висновки. Аналіз результатів обстеження встановив, що наявність у хворих стрептокока на слизовій оболонці носо- і ротоглотки в гострому періоді інфекційного мононуклеозу призводить до яскравішої реакції прозапальних інтерлейкінів їх крові і гальмування відповіді протизапального інтерлейкіну-4 (Р<0,05). Надалі відбувається повільне зниження рівнів інтерлейкіну 1, ФНП-α і гальмування наростання вмісту ІЛ-4.