bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimum Configuration of Cannulated Compression Screws for the Fixation of Unstable Femoral Neck Fractures: Finite Element Analysis Evaluation
Authors: Li Jiantao , Wang Menglin , Zhou Jianfeng , Han Lin , Zhang Hao , Li Chen , Li Lianting , Hao Ming
Published: December 2018

Objectives. In the present study, we evaluated the mechanical outcome of different configurations of cannulated compression screws for the fixation of Pauwels type III femoral neck fracture and the stress distribution around the holes corresponding to fixation protocol after screws removal. Methods. The Pauwels type III of femoral neck fracture was created in 3-matic software and the models of cannulated compression screws were constructed using UG-NX software. Five fixation systems were assembled to the fracture models. Abaqus software was used to perform the process of finite element analysis. Values of stress distribution, maximum stress, model principal strains of proximal fragment, and stress distribution around the holes of femur model were recorded. Results. Stress of cannulated compression screws was intensely focused on the middle area of the screw near the fragment of each group. Inverted triangle model showed the highest peak stress on screws under different phases of load. Each screw dispersed some stresses, but at least one underwent the peak stress. Fracture model fixed by inverted triangle configuration showed the lowest volume of yielding strain in the proximal fragment. The area of higher stress around the holes was largest after triangle screws removal when compared with other four models. Conclusions. Our study indicated that different cannulated compression screws fixation configurations for the unstable femoral neck fractures showed the different mechanical efficiency. Inverted triangular configuration showed the mechanical advantage and being less likely to cutout. The fixation strategy of triangle configuration was least recommended if patients tended to remove the implants.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis Next-Generation Whole Genome Sequencing: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Iketleng Thato , Lessells Richard , Dlamini Mlungisi Thabiso , Mogashoa Tuelo , Mupfumi Lucy , Moyo Sikhulile , Gaseitsiwe Simani , de Oliveira Tulio
Published: December 2018

Mycobacterium tuberculosis drug resistance is a threat to global tuberculosis (TB) control. Comprehensive and timely drug susceptibility determination is critical to inform appropriate treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB). Phenotypic drug susceptibility testing (DST) is the gold standard for M. tuberculosis drug resistance determination. M. tuberculosis whole genome sequencing (WGS) has the potential to be a one-stop method for both comprehensive DST and epidemiological investigations. We discuss in this review the tremendous opportunities that next-generation WGS presents in terms of understanding the molecular epidemiology of tuberculosis and mechanisms of drug resistance. The potential clinical value and public health impact in the areas of DST for patient management and tracing of transmission chains for timely public health intervention are also discussed. We present the current challenges for the implementation of WGS in low and middle-income settings. WGS analysis has already been adapted routinely in laboratories to inform patient management and public health interventions in low burden high-income settings such as the United Kingdom. We predict that the technology will be adapted similarly in high burden settings where the impact on the epidemic will be greatest.
Are All Oral COX-2 Selective Inhibitors the Same? A Consideration of Celecoxib, Etoricoxib, and Diclofenac
Authors: Walker Chris
Published: December 2018

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been widely used for the treatment of arthritic conditions. Drugs in this heterogeneous class alleviate pain and inflammation by inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) inhibition has traditionally been associated with increased gastrointestinal (GI) harm, whereas increased COX-2 selectivity has more recently become associated with greater risk of cardiovascular (CV) harm. When the entirety of data is considered, NSAIDs can be seen to exhibit a range of COX isoform selectivity, with all oral NSAIDs appearing to be associated with an increase in CV events. This review focuses on a comparison of the efficacy and the GI and CV safety profiles of three commonly used NSAIDs—celecoxib, etoricoxib, and diclofenac—using direct comparisons where available. While all three treatments are shown to have comparable efficacy, there are differences in their safety profiles. Both celecoxib and etoricoxib are associated with less GI harm than diclofenac despite the similarity of its COX-2 selectivity to celecoxib. Each of the three medicines under consideration is associated with a similar overall risk of CV events (fatal and nonfatal heart attacks and strokes). However, there are consistent differences in effects on blood pressure (BP), reported both from trials using ambulatory techniques and from meta-analyses of randomized trials, reporting investigator determined effects, with etoricoxib being associated with a greater propensity to destabilize BP control than either diclofenac or celecoxib.
Antiobesity Effect of Astilbe chinensis Franch. et Savet. Extract through Regulation of Adipogenesis and AMP‐Activated Protein Kinase Pathways in 3T3‐L1 Adipocyte and High‐Fat Diet‐Induced C57BL/6N Obese Mice
Authors: Zhang Xian Hua , Wang Zhiqiang , Kang Bueom-Goo , Hwang Seung Hwan , Lee Jae-Young , Lim Soon Sung , Huang Bo
Published: December 2018

Astilbe chinensis Franch. et Savat. (AC) has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of chronic bronchitis, arthralgia, and gastralgia. In this study, we investigated the antiobesity effect of AC extract on 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes and high‐fat‐diet‐fed C57BL/6N obese mice. We found that AC extracts dramatically decreased the lipid content of 3T3‐L1 cells in a concentration‐dependent manner without cytotoxicity. The action mechanism of AC extract was demonstrated to be the inhibition of lipid accumulation and dose‐dependent decrease in the expression of CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein α (C/EBPα), peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPAR‐γ), and sterol regulatory element‐binding protein 1 (SREBP1). Furthermore, AC extract increased the mitochondrial phosphorylation of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) and acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC), mitochondrial biogenesis, and lipolysis‐related factors. In amice model of high‐fat‐diet‐induced obesity, the mice administered AC extract experienced significant decrease of 64% in weight gain, 55% in insulin resistance index, 22% in plasma triglycerides (TG), 56% in total cholesterol (TC), and 21% in nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) levels compared with those in the high‐fat diet‐fed control mice. Collectively, these results indicated that AC extract exerted antiobesogenic activity through the modulation of the AMPK signaling pathway, inhibition of adipogenesis, decreased lipid content, and reduced adipocyte size.
Leptomeningeal and Intraparenchymal Blood Barrier Disruption in a MOG-IgG-Positive Patient
Authors: Mohseni Seyed Hamidreza , Skejoe Hanne Pernille Bro , Wuerfel Jens , Paul Friedemann , Reindl Markus , Jarius Sven , Asgari Nasrin
Published: December 2018

Background. Recently, pathogenic serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) autoantibodies to myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) have been detected in a subgroup of patients with central nervous system (CNS) demyelination, including in patients with myelitis. Relatively little is known so far about leptomeningeal involvement in MOG-IgG-positive myelitis. Findings. We report the case of a 30-year-old previously healthy woman presenting with longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis and tetraparesis, in whom both the leptomeningeal barrier and the blood-brain barrier (BBB) were altered, as demonstrated by gadolinium-enhanced MRI during relapse. Blood samples taken at onset and four years later were retrospectively found positive for MOG-IgG. Conclusion. Our findings demonstrate that spinal leptomeningeal enhancement (LME) can occur in MOG-IgG-positive encephalomyelitis (EM) and may accompany intraparenchymal BBB breakdown.
Identification of Cross-Protective Potential Antigens against PathogenicBrucellaspp. through Combining Pan-Genome Analysis with Reverse Vaccinology
Authors: Hisham Yasmin , Ashhab Yaqoub
Published: December 2018

Brucellosis is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by bacteria of the genusBrucella.Brucella melitensis,Brucella abortus, andBrucella suisare the most pathogenic species of this genus causing the majority of human and domestic animal brucellosis. There is a need to develop a safe and potent subunit vaccine to overcome the serious drawbacks of the live attenuatedBrucellavaccines. The aim of this work was to discover antigen candidates conserved among the three pathogenic species. In this study, we employed a reverse vaccinology strategy to compute the core proteome of 90 completed genomes: 55B. melitensis, 17B. abortus, and 18B. suis. The core proteome was analyzed by a metasubcellular localization prediction pipeline to identify surface-associated proteins. The identified proteins were thoroughly analyzed using variousin silicotools to obtain the most potential protective antigens. The number of core proteins obtained from analyzing the 90 proteomes was 1939 proteins. The surface-associated proteins were 177. The number of potential antigens was 87; those with adhesion score ≥ 0.5 were considered antigen with “high potential,” while those with a score of 0.4–0.5 were considered antigens with “intermediate potential.” According to a cumulative score derived from protein antigenicity, density of MHC-I and MHC-II epitopes, MHC allele coverage, and B-cell epitope density scores, a final list of 34 potential antigens was obtained. Remarkably, most of the 34 proteins are associated with bacterial adhesion, invasion, evasion, and adaptation to the hostile intracellular environment of macrophages which is adjusted to depriveBrucellaof required nutrients. Our results provide a manageable list of potential protective antigens for developing a potent vaccine against brucellosis. Moreover, our elaborated analysis can provide further insights into novelBrucellavirulence factors. Our next step is to test some of these antigens using an appropriate antigen delivery system.
Graphene Family Nanomaterials: Properties and Potential Applications in Dentistry
Authors: Ge Ziyu , Yang Luming , Xiao Fang , Wu Yani , Yu Tingting , Chen Jing , Lin Jiexin , Zhang Yanzhen
Published: December 2018

Graphene family nanomaterials, with superior mechanical, chemical, and biological properties, have grabbed appreciable attention on the path of researches seeking new materials for future biomedical applications. Although potential applications of graphene had been highly reviewed in other fields of medicine, especially for their antibacterial properties and tissue regenerative capacities,in vivoandin vitrostudies related to dentistry are very limited. Therefore, based on current knowledge and latest progress, this article aimed to present the recent achievements and provide a comprehensive literature review on potential applications of graphene that could be translated into clinical reality in dentistry.
Recurrent Aneurysmal Bone Cyst of the Distal Fibula Treated with Denosumab and Curettage
Authors: Fontenot Philip B. , Jesurajan Jose , Bui Marilyn , Reed Damon , Binitie Odion
Published: December 2018

We report the case of a 13-year-old girl with multiple recurrences of an aneurysmal bone cyst of the distal fibula successfully treated with denosumab and curettage. Aneurysmal bone cysts are locally aggressive lesions with high rates of recurrence. The novel use of denosumab with curettage in a long bone showed a favorable outcome with no adverse events or signs of recurrence three years after treatment.
Awareness of Biomedical Waste Management in Dental Students in Different Dental Colleges in Nepal
Authors: Singh Tanuja , Ghimire Tika R. , Agrawal Santosh K.
Published: December 2018

Aim. The aim of this study is to assess the awareness of biomedical waste management in dental students of various dental colleges of Nepal.Methodology. A structured pretested questionnaire was used among 434 (323 males and 111 females) undergraduate dental students of five different dental colleges of Nepal. First part of the questionnaire was used to describe demographic profile of the participants. Second part of the questionnaire assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding biomedical waste management. Chi-square test was applied to find out the association between different responses obtained from different colleges.Result. Majority (91.82%) of participants had a positive attitude towards safe management of biomedical waste. Regarding the knowledge of BMW management policies, majority of the students (83.1% to 98.9%) had positive attitude towards the safe management of biomedical waste, whereas more than 50% of the students were unaware of the guidelines laid down by Government of Nepal. Regarding biomedical waste disposal technique in the hospital, only 29.9% to 79.8% are aware; this shows that there is lack of strict protocol in the BMW management. Association between different responses and colleges for “improper waste management causes various health hazards” ranged from 93.3% to 98.9%.Conclusion. There exists a lacuna in the knowledge and practice of biomedical waste management among the undergraduate dental students in Nepal. Since the students had positive attitude towards addressing this concern, workshops and trainings related to proper biomedical waste management would be a step forward towards attaining a healthy environment for the future.
High Expression of Somatostatin Receptors 2A, 3, and 5 in Corticotroph Pituitary Adenoma
Authors: Behling Felix , Honegger Jürgen , Skardelly Marco , Gepfner-Tuma Irina , Tabatabai Ghazaleh , Tatagiba Marcos , Schittenhelm Jens
Published: December 2018

The development of somatostatin analogs for the treatment of pituitary Cushing’s disease has been based on somatostatin receptor expression analyses of small cohorts of pituitary adenomas. Additionally, the classification of pituitary adenomas has recently changed. To enable progress with this treatment option, we assessed somatostatin receptors in a large cohort of corticotroph and other pituitary adenomas according to the new WHO classification of endocrine tumors. Paraffin-embedded tumor samples of 88 corticotroph pituitary adenomas and 30 nonadenomatous pituitary biopsies were analyzed after processing into tissue microarrays and immunohistochemical staining for SSTR 1, SSTR2A, SSTR3, SSTR4, and SSTR5. For comparison, 159 other noncorticotroph pituitary adenomas were analyzed. SSTR3 expression was higher in corticotroph adenomas compared to PIT-1-positive, gonadotroph, and nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (p<0.0001, p=0.0280, and p<0.0001, respectively). This was also the case for the expression of SSTR5 (p=0.0003, p<0.0001, and p<0.0001, respectively). SSTR2A expression was higher compared to gonadotroph and nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (p=0.0217 and 0.0126, respectively) while PIT-1-positive adenomas showed even higher SSTR2A expression (p<0.0001). SSTR2A and SSTR5 were both expressed higher in nonadenomatous pituitary biopsies than in pituitary adenomas (p=0.0126 and p=0.0008, respectively). There are marked expression differences of SSTR1-5 as well as changes in expression in recurrent disease that need to be addressed when looking for other possible substances for the treatment of Cushing’s disease. SSTR2A, SSTR3, and SSTR5 seem to be most suitable biomarkers for a targeted therapy with somatostatin analogs.
Prognostic Significance of Serum Lactic Acid, Lactate Dehydrogenase, and Albumin Levels in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wei Yan , Xu Hui , Dai Jing , Peng Jin , Wang Wenbo , Xia Ling , Zhou Fuxiang
Published: December 2018

Aim. To identify the population of patients with high risk of distant metastasis and the poor prognosis before treatment, so as to provide early intervention and better treatment decision. Method. 69 patients with nonmetastatic colorectal cancer (non-mCRC) and 57 with metastatic CRC (mCRC) were enrolled to evaluate the prognostic value of serum albumin (ALB), serum lactate (SLA), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in patients with metastatic CRC. We then followed up the 57 patients with mCRC. The T test, Chi square test, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis model, and Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model were applied to assess the prognostic significance of SLA, LDH, and serum ALB on the patients with mCRC. Results. Compared with the non-mCRC group, the patients with mCRC had an elevated level of blood lactate (P=0.01) and LDH (P<0.01) and a reduced level of ALB (P<0.01). Multivariable analysis showed the elevated LDH combined with elevated SLA (HR=2.922, 95%CI=0.971-8.793, P=0.056), the reduced ALB (HR=0.417, 95%CI=0.230-0.754, P=0.004), and the elevated CA199 (HR=2.072, 95%CI=1.125-3.816, P=0.019) were independent prognostic factors for PFS of patients with mCRC. The elevated LDH (HR=2.204, 95%CI=1.000-4.858, P=0.050), reduced ALB (HR=0.459, 95%CI=0.236-0.892, P=0.022), elevated LDH combined with elevated SLA (HR=3.187, 95%CI=1.019-9.970, P=0.046), and the primary site of tumor (HR=0.359, 95%CI=0.174-0.740, P=0.006) were independent prognostic factors for OS of patients with mCRC. Conclusions. Taken together, our results implicate that the elevated LDH combined with elevated SLA and the reduced ALB are prognostic indicators for patients with mCRC.
Structured Clanning-Based Ensemble Optimization Algorithm: A Novel Approach for Solving Complex Numerical Problems
Authors: Sharma Avinash , Kumar Rajesh , Saxena Akash , Panigrahi B. K.
Published: December 2018

In this paper, a novel swarm intelligence-based ensemble metaheuristic optimization algorithm, called Structured Clanning-based Ensemble Optimization, is proposed for solving complex numerical optimization problems. The proposed algorithm is inspired by the complex and diversified behaviour present within the fission-fusion-based social structure of the elephant society. The population of elephants can consist of various groups with relationship between individuals ranging from mother-child bond, bond groups, independent males, and strangers. The algorithm tries to model this individualistic behaviour to formulate an ensemble-based optimization algorithm. To test the efficiency and utility of the proposed algorithm, various benchmark functions of different geometric properties are used. The algorithm performance on these test benchmarks is compared to various state-of-the-art optimization algorithms. Experiments clearly showcase the success of the proposed algorithm in optimizing the benchmark functions to better values.
Evaluation of Immunomodulatory and Hematologic Cell Outcome in Heroin/Opioid Addicts
Authors: Guzel Derya , Yazici Ahmet Bulent , Yazici Esra , Erol Atila
Published: December 2018

The long-term use of opioids leads alternations in both innate-adaptive immune systems and other diagnostic hematologic cells. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the alterations of these parameters in patients with heroin/opioid addictions. Adults, meeting the Fifth Edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria of the American Psychiatric Association regarding opioid use disorder (Heroin Group or HG, n = 51) and healthy controls (Control Group or CG, n = 50), were included in the study. All hematological parameters, inflammation indexes (neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-lymphocyte ratio), and iron panel were compared with the controls. Mean corpuscular volume, red blood cell distribution width, mean corpuscular hemoglobin content, unsaturated iron-binding capacity, and total iron-binding capacity were significantly higher in HG compared to CG, while red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and serum iron levels were significantly lower. Additionally, platelet and platelet distribution width were significantly high while mean platelet volume was low in HG. Regarding the parameters related to immunity, white blood cell, neutrophil count, and neutrophil percentage were significantly high while lymphocyte percentage and basophils count were significantly low. Besides, inflammatory indexes were significantly higher in HG compared to CG. Intravenous administration of heroin resulted in lower levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and mean corpuscular volume than inhalation and intranasal administration. Our data demonstrated that chronic use of opioids is related to all of the hematologic series. The chronic use of opioid alters the immunologic balance in favor of innate immunity cells and changes the hematometric/morphometric characteristics of erythrocytes. What is more, the route of heroin administration should be taken into consideration as well. This study may lead to a better understanding of the hematological effects of heroin/opioid use in patients with relevant addictions.
Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis and Immunometabolism: New Frontiers for Treatment of Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Belizário José E. , Faintuch Joel , Garay-Malpartida Miguel
Published: December 2018

Maintenance of healthy human metabolism depends on a symbiotic consortium among bacteria, archaea, viruses, fungi, and host eukaryotic cells throughout the human gastrointestinal tract. Microbial communities provide the enzymatic machinery and the metabolic pathways that contribute to food digestion, xenobiotic metabolism, and production of a variety of bioactive molecules. These include vitamins, amino acids, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and metabolites, which are essential for the interconnected pathways of glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid/Krebs cycle, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), and amino acid and fatty acid metabolism. Recent studies have been elucidating how nutrients that fuel the metabolic processes impact on the ways immune cells, in particular, macrophages, respond to different stimuli under physiological and pathological conditions and become activated and acquire a specialized function. The two major inflammatory phenotypes of macrophages are controlled through differential consumption of glucose, glutamine, and oxygen. M1 phenotype is triggered by polarization signal from bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Th1 proinflammatory cytokines such as interferon-γ, TNF-α, and IL-1β, or both, whereas M2 phenotype is triggered by Th2 cytokines such as interleukin-4 and interleukin-13 as well as anti-inflammatory cytokines, IL-10 and TGFβ, or glucocorticoids. Glucose utilization and production of chemical mediators including ATP, reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), and NADPH support effector activities of M1 macrophages. Dysbiosis is an imbalance of commensal and pathogenic bacteria and the production of microbial antigens and metabolites. It is now known that the gut microbiota-derived products induce low-grade inflammatory activation of tissue-resident macrophages and contribute to metabolic and degenerative diseases, including diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and cancer. Here, we update the potential interplay of host gut microbiome dysbiosis and metabolic diseases. We also summarize on advances on fecal therapy, probiotics, prebiotics, symbiotics, and nutrients and small molecule inhibitors of metabolic pathway enzymes as prophylactic and therapeutic agents for metabolic diseases.
An Inverse Source Problem for Singular Parabolic Equations with Interior Degeneracy
Authors: Atifi Khalid , Boutaayamou Idriss , Ould Sidi Hamed , Salhi Jawad
Published: December 2018

The main purpose of this work is to study an inverse source problem for degenerate/singular parabolic equations with degeneracy and singularity occurring in the interior of the spatial domain. Using Carleman estimates, we prove a Lipschitz stability estimate for the source term provided that additional measurement data are given on a suitable interior subdomain. For the numerical solution, the reconstruction is formulated as a minimization problem using the output least squares approach with the Tikhonov regularization. The Fréchet differentiability of the Tikhonov functional and the Lipschitz continuity of the Fréchet gradient are proved. These properties allow us to apply gradient methods for numerical solution of the considered inverse source problem.
Study on Three-Dimensional Digital Expression and Robot Bending Method of Orthodontic Archwire
Authors: Jiang Jingang , Ma Xuefeng , Zhang Yongde , Huo Biao , Liu Yi
Published: December 2018

Malocclusion is the third largest oral disease in the world. At present, the most effective treatment method for malocclusion is the fixed orthodontic technique based on orthodontic archwires. Robotic archwire bending can overcome the shortcomings of manual bending such as low efficiency and low precision. The three-dimensional digital expression and robot bending method of orthodontic archwire are studied to realize the orthodontic archwire bending using a robot. Tooth is identified by the doctors’ common method. The shape, position, and constraint relationship of orthodontic archwire in three-dimensional space are expressed by the Bessel curve. The bending of the archwire curve is realized by transmitting the archwire curve into the alternative lines. The planning method of forming points and the spatial angle planning method are proposed. The archwire bending experiment is carried out with the maxillary information of a patient. The error rate of the experimental and ideal values is between 2.94% and 6.74%. It can meet the physician’s basic requirements after simple modification. Therefore, it can be considered that the method of using discrete Bessel curve to carry out the control point planning and angle planning is suitable for the orthodontic archwire-bending robot system, which has certain feasibility and practicability in clinical treatment.
Oxidative Stress and the Microbiota‐Gut‐Brain Axis
Authors: Dumitrescu Laura , Popescu-Olaru Iulia , Cozma Liviu , Tulbă Delia , Hinescu Mihail Eugen , Ceafalan Laura Cristina , Gherghiceanu Mihaela , Popescu Bogdan Ovidiu
Published: December 2018

The gut‐brain axis is increasingly recognized as an important pathway of communication and of physiological regulation, and gut microbiota seems to play a significant role in this mutual relationship. Oxidative stress is one of the most important pathogenic mechanisms for both neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, and acute conditions, such as stroke or traumatic brain injury. A peculiar microbiota type might increase brain inflammation and reactive oxygen species levels and might favor abnormal aggregation of proteins. Reversely, brain lesions of various etiologies result in alteration of gut properties and microbiota. These recent hypotheses could open a door for new therapeutic approaches in various neurological diseases.
Integration of Biomechanical and Biological Characterization in the Development of Porous Poly(caprolactone)-Based Membranes for Abdominal Wall Hernia Treatment
Authors: Vozzi Federico , Nardo Tiziana , Guerrazzi Ilenia , Domenici Claudio , Rocchiccioli Silvia , Cecchettini Antonella , Comelli Laura , Vozzi Giovanni , De Maria Carmelo , Montemurro Francesca , Ciardelli Gianluca , Chiono Valeria
Published: December 2018

Aims. Synthetic meshes are the long-standing choice for the clinical treatment of abdominal wall hernias: the associated long-term complications have stimulated the development of a new generation of bioresorbable prostheses. In this work, polycaprolactone (PCL) porous membranes prepared by solvent casting/porogen leaching of PCL/poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) blends with different compositions (different PCL/PEG weight ratios and PEG molecular weights) were investigated to be applied in the field. An optimal porous membrane structure was selected based on the evaluation of physicochemical, biomechanical, and in vitro biological properties, compared to a reference commercially available hernia mesh (CMC). Findings. Selected PCL7-2i membranes, derived from PCL/PEG 70/30 (PCL: Mw 70,000-90,000 Da; PEG: 35,000 Da), showed suitable pore size for the application, intermediate surface hydrophilicity, and biomimetic mechanical properties. In vitro cell tests performed on PCL7-2i membranes showed their cytocompatibility, high cell growth during 21 days, a reduced production of proinflammatory IL-6 with respect to CMC, and a significant secretion of collagen type I. Conclusions. PCL7-2i membranes showed biomimetic biomechanical properties and in vitro biological properties similar to or even better than - in the case of anti-inflammatory behavior and collagen production - CMC, a commercially available product, suggesting potentially improved integration in the host tissue.
Lipid Extraction fromSpirulinasp. andSchizochytriumsp. Using Supercritical CO2with Methanol
Authors: Liu Shihong , Abu Hajar Husam A. , Riefler Guy , Stuart Ben J.
Published: December 2018

Microalgae are one of the most promising feedstocks for biodiesel production due to their high lipid content and easy farming. However, the extraction of lipids from microalgae is energy intensive and costly and involves the use of toxic organic solvents. Compared with organic solvent extraction, supercritical CO2(SCCO2) has demonstrated advantages through lower toxicity and no solvent-liquid separation. Due to the nonpolar nature of SCCO2, polar organic solvents such as methanol may need to be added as a modifier in order to increase the extraction ability of SCCO2. In this paper, pilot scale lipid extraction using SCCO2was studied on two microalgae species:Spirulinasp. andSchizochytriumsp. For each species, SCCO2extraction was conducted on 200 g of biomass for 6 h. Methanol was added as a cosolvent in the extraction process based on a volume ratio of 4%. The results showed that adding methanol in SCCO2increased the lipid extraction yield significantly for both species. Under an operating pressure of 4000 psi, the lipid extraction yields forSpirulinasp. andSchizochytriumsp. were increased by 80% and 72%, respectively. It was also found that a stepwise addition of methanol was more effective than a one-time addition. In comparison with Soxhlet extraction using methylene chloride/methanol (2:1, v/v), the methanol-SCCO2extraction demonstrated its high effectiveness for lipid extraction. In addition, the methanol-SCCO2system showed a high lipid extraction yield after increasing biomass loading fivefold, indicating good potential for scaling up this method. Finally, a kinetic study of the SCCO2extraction process was conducted, and the results showed that methanol concentration in SCCO2has the strongest influence on the lipid extraction yield.
Impact of Packet Size in Adaptive Cognitive Radio Sensor Network
Authors: Al-Medhwahi Mohammed , Hashim Fazirulhisyam , Ali Borhanuddin Mohd , Sali A.
Published: December 2018

A cognitive radio sensor network (CRSN) is a solution that enables sensor nodes to opportunistically access licensed radio channels. Data transmitted over a network are divided into packets. In machine‐to‐machine communication, which is a heterogeneous nature of wireless networks, small‐size packets are the common form of traffic. Due to the nature of CRSNs, small data packets will not allow a balance between optimal performance of the network and fulfilling the secondary network obligations towards the primary network in terms of interference. Either interference or channel’s underutilization would result from employing data packets of inadequate size. In this paper, the appropriate packet size for adaptive CRSN is investigated by examining the performances of small, medium, and large packet size. In contrast to the trends of exploiting small packets of sizes up to 128 bytes, this study demonstrates that medium‐size packets are more appropriate to yield the best performance in CRSNs. Simulation results show that packets of size 375 bytes outperform smaller and larger packets in many CRSN protocols. The induced delay that is partially caused by interference is decreased at the same time the channels are efficiently utilized.
Coronal Imbalance after Selective Posterior Thoracic Fusion in Patients with Lenke 1 and 2 Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Jiang Heng , Shao Wei , Xu Enjie , Ji Zhe , Lin Tao , Meng Yichen , Ma Jun , Wang Ce , Gao Rui , Zhou Xuhui
Published: December 2018

Coronal decompensation is a common complication in Lenke 1 or 2 AIS patients after selective thoracic fusion (STF). However, the majority who developed immediately postoperative coronal decompensation experienced improvement and the related factors are not fully understood. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the prevalence of coronal imbalance in patients with Lenke 1 or 2 AIS and to explore radiological factors associated with spontaneous correction of coronal balance after surgery. Lenke 1 or 2 AIS patients receiving STF in our center from January 2013 to March 2015 were analyzed. Anteroposterior and lateral films were evaluated before surgery, at 1 month’s and 2 years’ follow-up. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to whether coronal imbalance occurred in the early postoperative period (1 month). Various radiological parameters as well as Scoliosis Research Society-22 were statistically compared between groups. Coronal decompensation was observed in 33 patients preoperatively, in 48 patients immediately postoperatively, and in 2 patients at final follow-up. Lowermost instrumented vertebra (LIV) disc angle (0.9° vs. 6.7°, p=0.019) and LIV- C7 plumb line and central sacral vertical line (CSVL) (-3.4mm vs. -13.7mm, p=0.020) increased in the final follow-up in the imbalanced group of type A modifier. The magnitude of lumbar curve was greater in the imbalanced group of type B or C modifier in the early postoperative period (19.5° vs. 12.6°, p=0.006; 25.5° vs. 13.7°, p<0.01), and this difference disappeared in the final follow-up. No differences in SRS-22 outcome scores were noted between groups in different time. Coronal imbalance was frequently detected immediately after STF in Lenke 1 or 2 AIS patients, with type C modifier slightly higher than A or B. Distal adding-on may help compensate for coronal imbalance in patients with type A modifier, while spontaneous correction of lumbar curve attributes to the improvement of coronal imbalance in patients with type B or C modifier.
Biomechanical Alterations during Sit-to-Stand Transfer Are Caused by a Synergy between Knee Osteoarthritis and Obesity
Authors: Verlaan Loek , Boekesteijn Ramon J. , Oomen Pieter W. , Liu Wai-Yan , Peters Marloes J. M. , Witlox M. Adhiambo , Emans Pieter J. , van Rhijn Lodewijk W. , Meijer Kenneth
Published: December 2018

Osteoarthritis is one of the major causes of immobility and its current prevalence in elderly (>60 years) is 18% in women and 9.6% in men. Patients with osteoarthritis display altered movement patterns to avoid pain and overcome movement limitations in activities of daily life, such as sit-to-stand transfers. Currently, there is a lack of evidence that distinguishes effects of knee osteoarthritis on sit-to-stand performance in patients with and without obesity. The purpose of this study was therefore to investigate differences in knee and hip kinetics during sit-to-stand movement between healthy controls and lean and obese knee osteoarthritis patients. Fifty-five subjects were included in this study, distributed over three groups: healthy controls (n=22), lean knee osteoarthritis (n=14), and obese knee OA patients (n=19). All subjects were instructed to perform sit-to-stand transfers at self-selected, comfortable speed. A three-dimensional movement analysis was performed to investigate compensatory mechanisms and knee and hip kinetics during sit-to-stand movement. No difference in sit-to-stand speed was found between lean knee OA patients and healthy controls. Obese knee osteoarthritis patients, however, have reduced hip and knee range of motion, which is associated with reduced peak hip and knee moments. Reduced vertical ground reaction force in terms of body weight and increased medial ground reaction forces indicates use of compensatory mechanisms to unload the affected knee in the obese knee osteoarthritis patients. We believe that an interplay between obesity and knee osteoarthritis leads to altered biomechanics during sit-to-stand movement, rather than knee osteoarthritis alone. From this perspective, obesity might be an important target to restore healthy sit-to-stand biomechanics in obese knee OA patients.
Amelioration of Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury in Rats by Na-H Exchanger-1 Inhibitor Amiloride Is Associated with Reversal of ERK Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase
Authors: Zhang Yan , He Hao , Zhang Boran , Chen Qinghong , Yao Shanglong , Gui Ping
Published: December 2018

Background. Na-H exchanger-1 (NHE-1) is expressed in the lung of rats. Accumulating evidence shows that Na-H exchangers are involved in inflammation. Amiloride, an inhibitor of NHE-1, inhibits the activation of macrophages and endothelial cells and reduces their production of cytokines. Since these processes have been implicated in acute lung injury (ALI) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), we examined the protective effect of amiloride on ALI induced by LPS in rats.Material and Methods. ALI in specific pathogen-free male Sprague-Dawley rats was induced by an intravenous injection of 6 mg/kg LPS. Amiloride pretreated rats received an intravenous injection of 10 mg/kg amiloride 30 min before the administration of LPS. Controls received normal saline in a similar manner. All animals were sacrificed 6 h after LPS or normal saline administration. The degree of ALI was assessed by wet-to-dry weight ratio (W/D) and lung histological examination. Neutrophilic infiltration was determined by myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in lung tissue. Concentrations of total protein (TP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were also measured. Expression of NHE-1 and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) p38, p-p38, ERK, and p-ERK was evaluated by western blot analysis.Results. Pretreatment with amiloride significantly reduced the increase in W/D, ALI score, lung tissue MPO activity, concentrations of TP, TNF-α, and MIP-2 in BALF, resulting in attenuation of ALI induced by LPS. Meanwhile, levels of NHE-1 and p-ERK proteins were reversed, whereas that of p-p38 was not.Conclusions. These findings suggest that NHE-1 inhibitor amiloride could attenuate ALI induced by LPS in rats. This effect is mediated through reversal of ERK.
Simultaneous Occurrence of Colonic Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT) Lymphoma (MALToma) and Lung Cancer
Authors: Ahmed Monjur
Published: December 2018

Colonic MALToma accounts for 2.5% of all MALTomas. MALToma can be associated with certain chronic infections, autoimmune disorders, Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia, and old age. Synchronous MALTomas can occur in multiple organs. Simultaneous occurrence of colonic MALToma and colon cancer has been reported. A case of colonic MALToma and lung cancer is described here.
The Impact of User Behavior on Information Diffusion in D2D Communications: A Discrete Dynamical Model
Authors: Gan Chenquan , Li Xiaoke , Wang Lisha , Zhang Zufan
Published: December 2018

This paper aims to explore the impact of user behavior on information diffusion in D2D (Device-to-Device) communications. A discrete dynamical model, which combines network metrics and user behaviors, including social relationship, user influence, and interest, is proposed and analyzed. Specifically, combined with social tie and user interest, the success rate of data dissemination between D2D users is described, and the interaction factor, user influence, and stability factor are also defined. Furthermore, the state transition process of user is depicted by a discrete-time Markov chain, and global stability analysis of the proposed model is also performed. Finally, some experiments are examined to illustrate the main results and effectiveness of the proposed model.
Location Decision‐Making of Equipment Manufacturing Enterprise under Dual‐Channel Purchase and Sale Mode
Authors: Xu Wei , Liu Lina , Zhang Qingshan , Liu Peng
Published: December 2018

Based on the current status of the development of equipment manufacturing enterprises, the main influencing factors and main evaluation indicators of the equipment manufacturing enterprises in the context of dual‐channel marketing are analyzed and determined. According to the organizational layout and transaction form of equipment manufacturing enterprises, the problem of equipment manufacturing enterprise location decision‐making with online channel and offline channel trading mode is divided into two categories. One is the single‐plant location decision problem, and the other is the multiplant location decision problem. In the single‐plant location decision problem, we have established the conceptual model and mathematical model. Based on prospect theory, we use multicriteria decision‐making method to quantify and standardize the evaluation index and determine the reference value, and the priority of the scheme is determined according to the final comprehensive value. In the multiplant location decision problem, we have established the conceptual model and the logical model and established the mathematical model with the goal of minimizing the cost and time. Finally, an example is given to solve the location problem of single plant and multiple plants. The feasibility of the model is proved by the solution and verification.
Hyperthyroidism with Biventricular Heart Failure and Cirrhotic Transformation of the Liver
Authors: Dhital Rashmi , Vyas Shivani , Sharma Priyadarshani , Lynn Theresa , Oladiran Oreoluwa , Basnet Sijan
Published: December 2018

Cardiovascular symptoms remain the most common presenting features and leading causes of death in hyperthyroidism. We report a young female with reported thyroid disease and medication noncompliance presenting with atrial fibrillation, severe atrioventricular regurgitation, severely dilated right heart with reduced function, and moderate pulmonary hypertension (PH), which was further complicated by congestive liver injury with ascites and pancytopenia. Thyroid work-up revealed suppressed TSH, elevated free T4 and T3 along with elevated anti-thyroglobulin antibodies, thyroid peroxidase antibodies, and thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin, suggesting Graves’ thyrotoxicosis. Ultrasound of the abdomen was suggestive of liver cirrhosis and ascites, which was thought to be cardiac cirrhosis, after multiple negative work-ups for alternate causes of cirrhosis. Ascitic fluid analysis revealed portal hypertension as the cause. The patient was restarted on antithyroid medication with gradual improvement of thyroid function and in clinical and echocardiogram findings. In contrast to primary PH that carries a poor prognosis and has limited treatment options, PH due to Graves’ disease carries a good prognosis with prior reports of resolution after appropriate treatment, emphasizing the importance of early recognition. Also, unlike cirrhosis caused by alcohol or viral hepatitis, the effect of cardiac cirrhosis on overall prognosis has not been clearly established.
L-Carnitine: An Antioxidant Remedy for the Survival of Cardiomyocytes under Hyperglycemic Condition
Authors: Vacante Fernanda , Senesi Pamela , Montesano Anna , Frigerio Alice , Luzi Livio , Terruzzi Ileana
Published: December 2018

Background. Metabolic alterations as hyperglycemia and inflammation induce myocardial molecular events enhancing oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Those alterations are responsible for a progressive loss of cardiomyocytes, cardiac stem cells, and consequent cardiovascular complications. Currently, there are no effective pharmacological measures to protect the heart from these metabolic modifications, and the development of new therapeutic approaches, focused on improvement of the oxidative stress condition, is pivotal. The protective effects of levocarnitine (LC) in patients with ischemic heart disease are related to the attenuation of oxidative stress, but LC mechanisms have yet to be fully understood.Objective. The aim of this work was to investigate LC’s role in oxidative stress condition, on ROS production and mitochondrial detoxifying function in H9c2 rat cardiomyocytes during hyperglycemia.Methods. H9c2 cells in the hyperglycemic state (25 mmol/L glucose) were exposed to 0.5 or 5 mM LC for 48 and 72 h: LC effects on signaling pathways involved in oxidative stress condition were studied by Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis. To evaluate ROS production, H9c2 cells were exposed to H2O2after LC pretreatment.Results. Ourin vitrostudy indicates how LC supplementation might protect cardiomyocytes from oxidative stress-related damage, preventing ROS formation and activating antioxidant signaling pathways in hyperglycemic conditions. In particular, LC promotes STAT3 activation and significantly increases the expression of antioxidant protein SOD2. Hyperglycemic cardiac cells are characterized by impairment in mitochondrial dysfunction and the CaMKII signal: LC promotes CaMKII expression and activation and enhancement of AMPK protein synthesis. Our results suggest that LC might ameliorate metabolic aspects of hyperglycemic cardiac cells. Finally, LC doses herein used did not modify H9c2 growth rate and viability.Conclusions. Our novel study demonstrates that LC improves the microenvironment damaged by oxidative stress (induced by hyperglycemia), thus proposing this nutraceutical compound as an adjuvant in diabetic cardiac regenerative medicine.
The Impact of Media Coverage and Emergency Strategies on the Rumor Spreading
Authors: Huo Liang’an , Cheng Yingying
Published: December 2018

On the basis of nonlinear dynamic model, we research the propagation of rumors after emergencies, describe the impact of media coverage and emergency strategies by government on the transmission dynamics of information, and then obtain the basic reproduction number of rumor spreading. In order to overcome the limit of traditional methods of the static decision problem, the dynamic optimal control model for the rumor spreading is proposed based on the theorem of the optimal control. An optimal objective based on the maximum social utility is established and the optimal solution is acquired by using the Pontryagin Maximum Principle. Finally, numerical simulations show that the dynamic optimal control method has obvious superiority in modeling compared with the method without control. By means of the dynamic optimal control of media coverage and emergency strategies for government, the final rumor scale and the peak of spreaders can be effectively reduced.