bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Implementation of Software for Ship Monitoring System in Offshore Wind Farms
Authors: Tabi Fouda Bernard Marie , Han Dezhi , An Bowen , Chen Xiangzhi , Shen Sixi
Published: December 2019

To improve the safety of vessels in the offshore wind farms, this paper develops the design and implementation of a multiclient monitoring system that is a ship monitoring system software (SMSS). The design is based on automatic identification system (AIS) and geographic information system (GIS). The data of the target ships around the offshore wind farm zone will be displayed on a GIS map and monitored in the implemented software system in real time. The localization method and the warning zone judgment algorithm are used to carry out the vessel position around the offshore wind farm area. The software system includes some unavoidable features, namely, AIS encoding and decoding and automatic sending of short messages to ships arriving in the warning area. The tests of the SMSS show that in real time, the software system performs properly by detecting the target ships around the warning zone and sends short messages to these ships, which makes the SMSS more effective and reliable.
Distributed Beamforming Design for Nonregenerative Two-Way Relay Networks with Simultaneous Wireless Information and Power Transfer
Authors: Liao Keyun , Zhao Sai , Long Yusi , Huang Gaofei , Tang Dong
Published: December 2019

This paper considers the distributed beamforming design for a simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT) in two-way relay network, which consists of two sources, K relay nodes and one energy harvesting (EH) node. For such a network, assuming perfect channel state information (CSI) is available, and we study two different beamforming design schemes. As the first scheme, we design the beamformer through minimization of the average mean squared error (MSE) subject to the total transmit power constraint at the relays and the energy harvesting constraint at the EH receiver. Due to the intractable expression of the objective function, an upper bound of MSE is derived via the approximation of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Based on the minimization of this upper bound, this problem can be turned into a convex feasibility semidefinite programming (SDP) and, therefore, can be efficiently solved using interior point method. To reduce the computational complexity, a suboptimal beamforming scheme is proposed in the second scheme, for which the optimization problem could be recast to the form of the Rayleigh–Ritz ratio and a closed-form solution is obtained. Numerical results are provided and analyzed to demonstrate the efficiency of our proposed beamforming schemes.
The Use of Drones in Emergency Medicine: Practical and Legal Aspects
Authors: Konert Anna , Smereka Jacek , Szarpak Lukasz
Published: December 2019

Unmanned aerial vehicles, also known as drones, can play a significant role in military and civil emergency medicine. The aim of the study was to present the real possibilities of using them in rescue operations and to provide examples from all over the world. Unmanned aerial vehicles can be applied to transport goods on demand, provide blood in urban areas, save sinking people, analyse the scale of damages, monitor large human gatherings, perform exploration activities, deliver blood samples and other analysis material, provide automated external defibrillators, support rescue operations and air transport, and perform agricultural activities. One must, however, be aware of the existing regulations regarding drone flights as an appearance of an unreported unmanned aircraft in the controlled space is identified worldwide as affecting aviation safety.
In Vitro Antifungal and Antivirulence Activities of Biologically Synthesized Ethanolic Extract of Propolis-Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles against Candida albicans
Authors: Iadnut Anupon , Mamoon Ketsaya , Thammasit Patcharin , Pawichai Sudjai , Tima Singkome , Preechasuth Kanya , Kaewkod Thida , Tragoolpua Yingmanee , Tragoolpua Khajornsak
Published: December 2019

Propolis is a natural substance and consists of bioactive compounds, which gives it antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. However, the use of propolis is limited by the low solubility in aqueous solutions. Thus, nanoparticles may be likely to accomplish enhanced delivery of poorly water-soluble phytomedicine. The aim of the present study was to fabricate and evaluate the biological activity of ethanolic extract of propolis-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (EEP-NPs). The EEP-NPs were prepared using the oil-in-water (o/w) single-emulsion solvent evaporation technique. The physicochemical properties of EEP-NPs were characterized and tested on their cytotoxicity, antifungal activity, and impact on key virulence factors that contribute to pathogenesis of C. albicans. EEP-NPs were successfully synthesized and demonstrated higher antifungal activity than EEP in free form. Moreover, EEP-NPs exhibited less cytotoxicity on Vero cells and suppressed the virulence factors of C. albicans, including adhesion, hyphal germination, biofilm formation, and invasion. Importantly, EEP-NPs exhibited a statistical decrease in the expression of hyphal adhesion-related genes, ALS3 and HWP1, of C. albicans. The results of this study revealed that EEP-NPs mediates a potent anticandidal activity and key virulence factors by reducing the gene-encoding virulence-associated hyphal- adhesion proteins of C. albicans and, thereby, disrupting the morphologic presence and attenuating their virulence.
Seroprevalence of Canine Ehrlichiosis and Microscopic Screening for Canine Babesiosis in Dogs in Harare, Zimbabwe, 2016-2017
Authors: Dhliwayo Solomon , Chihambakwe Brighton , Taonezvi Knowledge , Chikerema Silvester M. , Tivapasi Musavengana T. , Pfukenyi Davies M.
Published: December 2019

A cross-sectional study was done to determine ehrlichiosis seroprevalence and babesiosis prevalence in dogs that were presented to selected veterinary clinics in Harare. Sera from randomly selected dogs were tested for antibodies toEhrlichiaspp. using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay while microscopy of peripheral blood smears was used to confirm babesiosis. Overall, 75.2% (88/117, 95% CI: 66.2–82.5) of sera samples tested were positive toEhrlichiaspp. antibodies while the prevalence of canine babesiosis was 47.9% (56/117, 95% CI: 38.6–57.3). Age, breed, and sex were found not to be associated with the two disease conditionsp>0.05. Most of the dogs with babesiosis (82.1%, 46/56) were also positive toEhrlichiaspp. antibodies. Hypoalbuminaemia (53.8%, 63/117), anaemia (53.0%, 62/117) and thrombocytopaenia (40.2%, 47/117) were the most common laboratory findings. Thrombocytopaenia and hypoalbuminaemia was more pronounced in dogs with babesiosis only while anaemia was more marked in dogs with babesiosis and positive toEhrlichiaspp. antibodies.
Vascular Macrophages in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Xu Hailin , Jiang Jingxin , Chen Wuzhen , Li Wenlu , Chen Zhigang
Published: December 2019

Atherosclerosis is the main pathological basis for the occurrence of most cardiovascular diseases, the leading global health threat, and a great burden for society. It has been well established that atherosclerosis is not only a metabolic disorder but also a chronic, sterile, and maladaptive inflammatory process encompassing both innate and adaptive immunity. Macrophages, the major immune cell population in atherosclerotic lesions, have been shown to play critical roles in all stages of atherosclerosis, including the initiation and progression of advanced atherosclerosis. Macrophages have emerged as a novel potential target for antiatherosclerosis therapy. In addition, the macrophage phenotype is greatly influenced by microenvironmental stimuli in the plaques and presents complex heterogeneity. This article reviews the functions of macrophages in different stages of atherosclerosis, as well as the phenotypes and functions of macrophage subsets. New treatment strategies based on macrophage-related inflammation are also discussed.
Mesenchymal Stromal Cells from the Epidermis and Dermis of Psoriasis Patients: Morphology, Immunophenotype, Differentiation Patterns, and Regulation of T Cell Proliferation
Authors: Castro-Manrreza M. E. , Bonifaz L. , Castro-Escamilla O. , Monroy-García A. , Cortés-Morales A. , Hernández-Estévez E. , Hernández-Cristino J. , Mayani H. , Montesinos J. J.
Published: December 2019

Psoriasis is a skin disease characterized by hyperproliferation of keratinocytes and chronic inflammation. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) exhibit an immunoregulatory function that can be altered in the skin of these patients. However, to date, the presence and functional capacity of MSCs in the dermis and epidermis of patients with psoriasis have not been fully established. In the present study, we evaluated the presence of MSCs in the skin of patients by obtaining adherent cells from the dermis and epidermis of lesional and nonlesional areas and characterizing them in a comparative manner with corresponding cells obtained from the dermis (HD-MSCs) and epidermis (HE-MSCs) of healthy donors. We determined whether the adherent cells had immunophenotypic profiles and differentiation potentials that were characteristic of MSCs. In addition, we analyzed their immunosuppression function by evaluating their capacity to decrease T cell proliferation. Our results indicate the presence of MSCs in the dermis and epidermis of healthy donors and patients with psoriasis; adherent cells from all skin sources exhibited MSC characteristics, such as expression of CD73, CD90, and CD105 markers and a lack of hematopoietic and endothelial marker expression. However, the cell populations obtained showed differences in differentiation potential toward adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic lineages. In addition, we observed a low MSC obtention frequency in nonlesional epidermal samples (NLE-MSCs), which also showed alterations in morphology and proliferation rate. Interestingly, MSCs from both the nonlesional dermis (NLD-MSCs) and lesional dermis (LD-MSCs) showed higher HLA class I antigen (HLA-I) expression than HD-MSCs. Moreover, NLD-MSCs showed a low T cell proliferation suppression capacity. In summary, this study demonstrates the presence of MSCs in the epidermis and dermis of patients with psoriasis and suggests that such cells may favor the inflammatory process and thus psoriatic lesion development through high HLA-I expression and low immunosuppression capacity.
Systemic Infusion of Expanded CD133+ Cells and Expanded CD133+ Cell-Derived EVs for the Treatment of Ischemic Cardiomyopathy in a Rat Model of AMI
Authors: Angulski Addeli B. B. , Capriglione Luiz Guilherme A. , Barchiki Fabiane , Brofman Paulo , Stimamiglio Marco A. , Senegaglia Alexandra C. , Correa Alejandro
Published: December 2019

Myocardial infarction is a leading cause of death among all cardiovascular diseases. Cell therapies using a cell population enriched with endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), expanded CD133+ cells, have promise as a therapeutic option for the treatment of ischemic areas after infarction. Recently, secreted membrane vesicles, including exosomes and microvesicles, have been recognized as new therapeutic candidates with important roles in intercellular and tissue communication. Expanded CD133+ cells have the ability to produce extracellular vesicles (EVs); however, their effect in the context of the heart is unknown. In the present study, we evaluated the effectiveness of the systemic application of expanded CD133+ cells and expanded CD133+ cell-derived EVs for the treatment of ischemic cardiomyopathy in a rat model of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and examined the hypothesis that the EVs, because of their critical role in transferring regenerative signals from stem cells to the injured tissues, might elicit an equal or better therapeutic response than the expanded CD133+ cells. We demonstrate that the systemic application of expanded CD133+ cells and EVs has similar effects in infarcted rats. Few animals per group showed improvements in several heart and kidney parameters analyzed, but not significant differences were observed when comparing the groups. The systemic route may not be effective to treat ischemic cardiomyopathy; nonetheless, it may be a beneficial therapy to treat the side effects of AMI such as kidney damage.
Investigation of Heavy Metal Effects on the Anaerobic Co-Digestion Process of Waste Activated Sludge and Septic Tank Sludge
Authors: Nguyen Quang-Minh , Bui Duy-Cam , Phuong Thao , Doan Van-Huong , Nguyen Thi-Nham , Nguyen Minh-Viet , Tran Thien-Hien , Do Quang-Trung
Published: December 2019

The effect of copper, zinc, chromium, and lead on the anaerobic co-digestion of waste activated sludge and septic tank sludge in Hanoi was studied in the fermentation tests by investigating the substrate degradation, biogas production, and process stability at the mesophilic fermentation. The tested heavy metals were in a range of concentrations between 19 and 80 ppm. After the anaerobic tests, the TS, VS, and COD removal efficiency was 4.12%, 9.01%, and 23.78% for the Cu(II) added sample. Similarly, the efficiencies of the Zn(II) sample were 1.71%, 13.87%, and 16.1% and Cr(VI) efficiencies were 15.28%, 6.6%, and 18.65%, while the TS, VS, and COD removal efficiency of the Pb(II) added sample was recorded at 16.1%, 17.66%, and 16.03% at the concentration of 80 ppm, respectively. Therefore, the biogas yield also decreased by 36.33%, 31.64%, 31.64%, and 30.60% for Cu(II), Zn(II), Cr(VI), and Pb(II) at the concentration of 80 ppm, compared to the raw sample, respectively. These results indicated that Cu(II) had more inhibiting effect on the anaerobic digestion of the sludge mixture than Zn(II), Cr(VI), and Pb(II). The relative toxicity of these heavy metals to the co-digestion process was as follows: Cu (the most toxic) > Zn > Cr > Pb (the least toxic). The anaerobic co-digestion process was inhibited at high heavy metal concentration, which resulted in decreased removal of organic substances and produced biogas.
Identification and Verification of the Main Differentially Expressed Proteins in Gastric Cancer via iTRAQ Combined with Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Gao Zhihua , Wang Jiabao , Bai Yuru , Bao Jun , Dai Erqing
Published: December 2019

Background. To find the potential intersections between the differentially expressed proteins and abnormally expressed genes in gastric cancer (GC) patients. Methods. Gastric cancer tissue and adjacent normal mucosa tissue were used for iTRAQ analysis. Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis were used to evaluate gene function. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were applied to verify the protein expression. Results. A total of 2770 proteins were identified, of which 147 proteins were upregulated and 159 proteins were downregulated. GO analysis revealed that the differentially expressed genes were mainly enriched for the terms “cellular process,” “binding,” and “cell.” The results of the KEGG analysis showed that the most abundantly enriched proteins were involved in the “focal adhesion” pathway. The results of the PPI analysis showed that VCAM1 was located at the center of the PPI network. Western blotting and IHC analysis demonstrated that VCAM1, FLNA, VASP, CAV1, PICK1, and COL4A2 were differentially expressed in GC and adjacent normal tissues, which was consistent with the results of the iTRAQ analysis. Conclusion. In conclusion, 6 highly differentially expressed proteins were identified as novel differentially expressed proteins in human GC. This exploratory research may provide useful information for the treatment of gastric cancer in the clinic.
HB-EGF Ameliorates Oxidative Stress-Mediated Uterine Decidualization Damage
Authors: Yu Hai-Fan , Duan Cui-Cui , Yang Zhan-Qing , Wang Yu-Si , Yue Zhan-Peng , Guo Bin
Published: December 2019

HB-EGF is essential for uterine decidualization, but its antioxidant function remains largely unclear. Here, we found that HB-EGF promoted the proliferation of stromal cells followed by the accelerated transition of the cell cycle from G1 to S phase and enhanced the expression or activity of Prl8a2, Prl3c1, and ALP which were well-established markers for uterine stromal cell differentiation during decidualization. Under oxidative stress, stromal cell differentiation was impaired, but this impairment was abrogated by rHB-EGF accompanied with the reduced levels of ROS and MDA which were regarded as the biomarkers for oxidative stress, indicating an antioxidant role of HB-EGF. Further analysis revealed that HB-EGF enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, and GPX, where addition of GPX inhibitor MS attenuated the induction of rHB-EGF on Prl8a2, Prl3c1, and ALP. Meanwhile, HB-EGF rescued the content of GSH and restored the ratio of GSH/GSSG after exposure to H2O2 but did not alter NOX activity. Along with a decline for mitochondrial superoxide, exogenous rHB-EGF improved the damage of oxidative stress on mtDNA copy number, ATP level, mitochondrial membrane potential, and activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I and III whose blockage by ROT and AA led to a failure of rHB-EGF in protecting stromal cell differentiation against injury. Moreover, HB-EGF prevented stromal cell apoptosis by inhibiting Caspase-3 activity and Bax expression and recovering the level of Bcl-2 mRNA. Collectively, HB-EGF might ameliorate oxidative stress-mediated uterine decidualization damage.
Preoperative Risk Assessment of Lymph Node Metastasis in cT1 Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Study from Eastern China
Authors: Zhang Chengyan , Pang Guanchao , Ma Chengxi , Wu Jingni , Wang Pingli , Wang Kai
Published: December 2019

Background. Lymph node status of clinical T1 (diameter≤3 cm) lung cancer largely affects the treatment strategies in the clinic. In order to assess lymph node status before operation, we aim to develop a noninvasive predictive model using preoperative clinical information. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 924 patients (development group) and 380 patients (validation group) of clinical T1 lung cancer. Univariate analysis followed by polytomous logistic regression was performed to estimate different risk factors of lymph node metastasis between N1 and N2 diseases. A predictive model of N2 metastasis was established with dichotomous logistic regression, externally validated and compared with previous models. Results. Consolidation size and clinical N stage based on CT were two common independent risk factors for both N1 and N2 metastases, with different odds ratios. For N2 metastasis, we identified five independent predictors by dichotomous logistic regression: peripheral location, larger consolidation size, lymph node enlargement on CT, no smoking history, and higher levels of serum CEA. The model showed good calibration and discrimination ability in the development data, with the reasonable Hosmer-Lemeshow test (p=0.839) and the area under the ROC being 0.931 (95% CI: 0.906-0.955). When externally validated, the model showed a great negative predictive value of 97.6% and the AUC of our model was better than other models. Conclusion. In this study, we analyzed risk factors for both N1 and N2 metastases and built a predictive model to evaluate possibilities of N2 metastasis of clinical T1 lung cancers before the surgery. Our model will help to select patients with low probability of N2 metastasis and assist in clinical decision to further management.
Pattern Formation in a Reaction‐Diffusion Predator‐Prey Model with Weak Allee Effect and Delay
Authors: Liu Hua , Ye Yong , Wei Yumei , Ma Weiyuan , Ma Ming , Zhang Kai
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we establish a reaction‐diffusion predator‐prey model with weak Allee effect and delay and analyze the conditions of Turing instability. The effects of Allee effect and delay on pattern formation are discussed by numerical simulation. The results show that pattern formations change with the addition of weak Allee effect and delay. More specifically, as Allee effect constant and delay increases, coexistence of spotted and stripe patterns, stripe patterns, and mixture patterns emerge successively. From an ecological point of view, we find that Allee effect and delay play an important role in spatial invasion of populations.
Construction of Direct Z-Scheme Photocatalyst by Mg1.2Ti1.8O5 and g-C3N4 Nanosheets toward Photocatalytic H2 Production and Disinfection
Authors: Gu Sijia , Zhang Dan , Luo Shirong , Yang Heng
Published: December 2019

Exploring a novel and efficient photocatalyst is the key research goal to relieve energy and environmental issues. Herein, Z-scheme heterojunction composites were successfully fabricated by loading g-C3N4 nanosheets (CN) on the surface of Mg1.2Ti1.8O5 nanoflakes (MT) through a simple sol-gel method followed by the calcination method. The crystalline phase, morphologies, specific surface area, and optical and electrochemical performance of the samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy-disperse X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and electrochemical measurements. Considering the suitable band structures of the components, the photocatalytic performance was evaluated by photocatalytic H2O splitting and photocatalytic inactivation of Escherichia coli (E. coli). Among the samples, MT/CN-10 (the molar percentage of melamine to as-obtained Mg-Ti gel was 10%) shows superior photocatalytic performance, which the average H2 production rate was 3.57 and 7.24 times higher than those of MT and CN alone. Additionally, the efficiency of inactivating Escherichia coli (E. coli) over MT/CN-10 was 1.95 and 2.06 times higher as compared to pure MT and CN, respectively. The enhancement of the photocatalytic performance was attributed to the advantages of the extremely negative conduction band (CB) of CN and the extremely positive valence band (VB) of MT, the enhanced light absorption, and more efficient photogenerated charge carrier separation.
The Role of Adenosine A2b Receptor in Mediating the Cardioprotection of Electroacupuncture Pretreatment via Influencing Ca2+Key Regulators
Authors: Dai Qiu-Fu , Gao Jun-Hong , Xin Juan-Juan , Liu Qun , Jing Xiang-Hong , Yu Xiao-Chun
Published: December 2019

Objective. To investigate the roles played by A2b receptor and the key Ca2+signaling components in the mediation of the cardioprotection of electroacupuncture pretreatment in the rats subjected to myocardial ischemia and reperfusion.Methods. SD rats were randomly divided into a normal control (NC) group, ischemia/reperfusion model (M) group, electroacupuncture pretreatment (EA) group, and electroacupuncture pretreatment plus A2b antagonist (EAG) group. The ischemia/reperfusion model was made by ligation and loosening of the left descending branch of the coronary artery in all groups except the NC group. The EA group was pretreated with electroacupuncture at theNeiguan(PC6) point once a day for three consecutive days before the modeling. The elevation of the ST segment, arrhythmia scores, and myocardial infarction size of each group was measured. The relative expression levels of A2b, RyR2, SERCA2a, NCX1, P-PLB(S16)/PLB, and Troponin C/Troponin I proteins in the injured myocardium were detected by multiple fluorescence western blot.Results. The level of ST segment, arrhythmia scores, and infarct size in the M group was significantly higher/larger than that in the NC group after ischemia and reperfusion, while all the three indices mentioned above in the EA group were significantly lower/smaller than those in the M group after reperfusion. The expression of the proteins of adenosine receptor 2b(A2b), ryanodine receptor 2(RyR2), and sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase 2a (SERCA2a) in the EA group was significantly enhanced as compared with the M group, while in the EAG group, the contents of A2b were significantly lower than those in the EA group, and RyR2 was higher in the EAG group. In comparison with the NC group, the relative expression of NCX1 protein in M, EA, and EAG groups was not changed significantly. The ratio of phosphorylated phospholamban (P-PLB) over phospholamban (PLB) in the M group was significantly lower than that in the NC group, and the ratio in the EA group was significantly increased as compared with the M group, while the ratio of Troponin C/Troponin I in the EA group was significantly decreased in comparison with that in other groups.Conclusion. Electroacupuncture pretreatment could reduce ischemia and reperfusion-induced myocardial injury via possibly increasing the A2b content and regulating the key Ca2+signaling components, namely inhibiting RyR2 and enhancing P-PLB(S16)/PLB ratio and SERCA2a proteins, so as to diminish the intracellular Ca2+overload and consequently lessen the myocardial injury.
Sm16, ASchistosoma mansoniImmunomodulatory Protein, Fails to Elicit a Protective Immune Response and Does Not Have an Essential Role in Parasite Survival in the Definitive Host
Authors: Bernardes Wilma Patrícia de Oliveira Santos , de Araújo Juliano Michel , Carvalho Gardênia Braz , Alves Clarice Carvalho , de Moura Coelho Aline Thaynara , Dutra Isabela Thamara Sabino , Teixeira Sueleny Silva Ferreira , de Azambuja Ribeiro Rosy Iara Maciel , de Moraes Mourão Marina , da Silva-Pereira Rosiane Aparecida , Fonseca Cristina Toscano
Published: December 2019

Sm16 is an immunomodulatory protein that seems to play a key role in the suppression of the cutaneous inflammatory response duringSchistosoma mansonipenetration of the skin of definitive hosts. Therefore, Sm16 represents a potential target for protective immune responses induced by vaccination. In this work, we generated the recombinant protein rSm16 and produced polyclonal antibodies against this protein to evaluate its expression during different parasite life-cycle stages and its location on the surface of the parasite. In addition, we analyzed the immune responses elicited by immunization with rSm16 using two different vaccine formulations, as well as its ability to induce protection in Balb/c mice. In order to explore the biological function of Sm16 during the course of experimental infection, RNA interference was also employed. Our results demonstrated that Sm16 is expressed in cercaria and schistosomula and is located in the schistosomula surface. Despite humoral and cellular immune responses triggered by vaccination using rSm16 associated with either Freund’s or alum adjuvants, immunized mice presented no reduction in either parasite burden or parasite egg laying. Knockdown ofSm16gene expression in schistosomula resulted in decreased parasite sizein vitrobut had no effect on parasite survival or egg productionin vivo. Thus, our findings demonstrate that although the vaccine formulations used in this study succeeded in activating immune responses, these failed to promote parasite elimination. Finally, we have shown that Sm16 is not vital for parasite survival in the definitive host and hence may not represent a suitable target for vaccine development.
Effect of the Hydroethanolic Extract of Bixa orellana Linn (Bixaceae) Leaves on Castor Oil-Induced Diarrhea in Swiss Albino Mice
Authors: Fokam Tagne Michel Archange , Akaou Hypolyte , Noubissi Paul Aimé , Foyet Fondjo Angèle , Rékabi Yaouke , Wambe Henri , Kamgang René , Essame Oyono Jean-Louis
Published: December 2019

Objective. The treatment of diarrheal diseases is a serious problem in developing countries, where population generally uses medicinal plants. The leaves of Bixa orellana have been reported to be traditionally used in the treatment of diarrhea by local people in the district of Khulna in Bangladesh. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the hydroethanolic extract of Bixa orellana leaves on castor oil-induced diarrhea in mice. Methods. The powder of the leaves of Bixa orellana was macerated in ethanol/water mixture (20/80) for 48 hours and then filtered. The filtrate obtained was lyophilized, and the solutions to be administered to the animals were prepared. To induce diarrhea, animals orally received castor oil (1 mL/100 g bw). To determine the effective doses, each mouse received, 30 minutes after the administration of castor oil, one of the single oral doses of hydroethanolic extract of Bixa orellana leaves: 0, 25, 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg bw. The mass, number, and frequency of stool diarrhea were measured and recorded per hour for five hours. The effect of the hydroethanolic extract of Bixa orellana leaves on the intestinal transit was evaluated by measuring the distance traveled by the charcoal meal in thirty minutes. The effects of the aqueous extract of hydroethanolic extract of Bixa orellana leaves on intestinal secretion were evaluated by measuring the volume of the intestinal content and by dosing the electrolytes (Na+, K+, and Cl-) in the intestinal content by the colorimetric method. Results. The extract produced significant (P<0.01) decreases, respectively, 35.52%, 54.47%, 74.80%, and 87.80% in the severity of diarrhea. The extract at 100 and 200 mg/kg bw showed a significant (P<0.01) decrease of castor oil-induced enteropooling (61.08% and 65.41%), and only the 200 mg/kg bw exhibited significant (P<0.01) reduction on intestinal transit (24.46%) as compared to standard drug. Conclusions. The hydroethanolic extract was found to be effective against castor oil-induced diarrhea in experimental mice at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg bw which provides evidence that could justify its traditional use.
Low-Temperature Conductivity Study of Multiorganic Solvent Electrolyte for Lithium-Sulfur Rechargeable Battery Application
Authors: Dharavath Ravindar , Murali Ashwin , Tarapathi Abdul Wasi , Trichy Srinivasan Balasubramanian , Kammili Rambabu
Published: December 2019

The conductivity of an electrolyte plays a significant role in deciding the performance of any battery over a wide temperature range from −40°C to 60°C. In this work, the conductivity of lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) at a varied salt concentration range from 0.2 M to 2.0 M in a multisolvent organic electrolyte system over a wide temperature range from −40°C to 60°C is reported. The mixed solvents used were 1,3-dioxolane (DOL), 1,2-dimethoxyethane (DME), and tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether (TEGDME) with an equal ratio of DOL : DME : TEGDME (1 : 1 : 1 by volume). The experimental analysis performed over a wide temperature range revealed the maximum conductivity at salt concentrations ranging from 1.0 M to 1.4 M for equal molar solvents. The optimum salt concentration and maximum conductivity in a different solvent composition ratio (i.e., 3 : 2 : 1) for all the temperatures is reported herein. The temperature-dependence conductivity of the salt concentration did not fit the Arrhenius plot, but it resembled the Vogel–Tamman–Fulcher plot behavior. The present conductivity study was carried out to evaluate the overall operable temperature limit of the electrolyte used in the lithium-sulfur battery.
TG : HDL-C Ratio Is a Good Marker to Identify Children Affected by Obesity with Increased Cardiometabolic Risk and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Nur Zati Iwani Ahmad Kamil , Jalaludin Muhammad Yazid , Wan Mohd Zin Ruziana Mona , Fuziah Md Zain , Hong Janet Yeow Hua , Abqariyah Yahya , Mokhtar Abdul Halim , Wan Mohamud Wan Nazaimoon
Published: December 2019

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an important predictor of cardiovascular diseases in adulthood. This study aims to examine the clinical utility of triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein ratio (TG : HDL-C) in identifying cardiometabolic risk and insulin resistance (IR) among children with obesity, in comparison with MetS as defined by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Data of 232 children with obesity aged 10–16 years were obtained from our study, MyBFF@school study, conducted between January and December 2014. Children were divided into tertiles of TG : HDL-C ratio. The minimum value of the highest tertile was 1.11. Thus, elevated TG : HDL-C ratio was defined as TG : HDL-C ≥1.11. Children with MetS were categorized based on the definition established by the IDF. Out of 232 children, 23 (9.9%) had MetS, out of which 5.6% were boys. Almost twofold of boys and girls had elevated TG : HDL-C ratio compared to MetS: 13.8% vs. 5.6% and 13.8% vs. 4.3%, respectively. Children with elevated TG : HDL-C ratio had lower fasting glucose compared to children with MetS (boys = 5.15 ± 0.4 vs. 6.34 ± 2.85 mmol/l, p=0.02; girls = 5.17 ± 0.28 vs. 6.8 ± 4.3 mmol/l, p=0.03). Additionally, boys with elevated TG : HDL-C ratio had a higher HDL-C level compared to those with MetS (1.08 ± 0.18 vs. 0.96 ± 0.1 mmol/l, p=0.03). There was no significant difference across other MetS-associated risk factors. Overall, TG : HDL-C ratio demonstrated higher sensitivity (42.7% vs. 12.9%) but lower specificity (74.8% vs. 93.2%) than MetS in identifying IR, either in HOMA-IR ≥2.6 for prepubertal children or HOMA-IR ≥4 for pubertal children. TG : HDL-C ratio in children with obesity is thus as useful as the diagnosis of MetS. It should be considered an additional component to MetS, especially as a surrogate marker for IR.
Serum Levels of Epithelial-Derived Cytokines as Interleukin-25 and Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin after a Single Dose of Mepolizumab in Patients with Severe Non-Allergic Eosinophilic Asthma: A Short Report
Authors: Kalinauskaite-Zukauske Virginija , Januskevicius Andrius , Janulaityte Ieva , Miliauskas Skaidrius , Malakauskas Kestutis
Published: December 2019

The bronchial epithelium has continuous contact with environmental agents initiating and maintaining airway type 2 inflammation in asthma. However, there is a lack of data on whether reduced airway eosinophilic inflammation can affect the production of epithelial-derived mediators, such as interleukin-25 (IL-25) and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP). The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in serum levels of IL-25 and TSLP after a single dose of mepolizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody to interleukin-5 (IL-5), in patients with severe non-allergic eosinophilic asthma (SNEA). We examined 9 SNEA patients before and four weeks after administration of 100 mg mepolizumab subcutaneously. The fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) level was analysed using an electrochemical assay (NIOX VERO®, Circassia, UK). Serum IL-25 and TSLP levels were measured by ELISA. Four weeks after the single dose of mepolizumab, blood eosinophil count significantly decreased from 0.55 ± 0.20 × 109/l to 0.14 ± 0.04 × 109/l (p=0.01) and FEV1 increased from 2.1 ± 0.5 l (65.4 ± 8.8% of predicted) to 2.6 ± 0.4 l (76.4 ± 9.1% of predicted) (p=0.04), while FeNO level has not changed (32.3 ± 8.4 vs 42.9 ± 12.6 ppb). Serum IL-25 level significantly decreased from 48.0 ± 17.2 pg/mL to 34.8 ± 17.1 pg/mL (p=0.02) with same tendency in TSLP level: from 359.8 ± 71.3 pg/mL to 275.6 ± 47.8 pg/mL (p=0.02). It has also been noticed a significant relation between changes in the blood eosinophil count and serum IL-25 level (r = 0.81, p=0.008), as well as between changes in serum IL-25 and TSLP levels (r = 0.93, p=0.004) after a single dose of mepolizumab. Thus, anti-IL-5 treatment with mepolizumab might diminish the production of bronchial epithelial-derived cytokines IL-25 and TSLP in patients with SNEA which is potentially related to reduced eosinophilic inflammation. This trial is registered in ClinicalTrial.gov with identifier NCT03388359.
MicroRNA-28-5p Regulates Liver Cancer Stem Cell Expansion via IGF-1 Pathway
Authors: Xia Qing , Han Tao , Yang Pinghua , Wang Ruoyu , Li Hengyu , Zhang Jin , Zhou Xinfeng
Published: December 2019

Background. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in the regulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs). However, the role of miRNAs in liver CSCs has not been fully elucidated. Methods. Real-time PCR was used to detect the expression of miR-miR-28-5p in liver cancer stem cells (CSCs). The impact of miR-28-5p on liver CSC expansion was investigated both in vivo and in vitro. The correlation between miR-28-5p expression and sorafenib benefits in HCC was further evaluated in patient-derived xenografts (PDXs). Results. Our data showed that miR-28-5p was downregulated in sorted EpCAM- and CD24-positive liver CSCs. Biofunctional investigations revealed that knockdown miR-28-5p promoted liver CSC self-renewal and tumorigenesis. Consistently, miR-28-5p overexpression inhibited liver CSC’s self-renewal and tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, we found that insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) was a direct target of miR-28-5p in liver CSCs, and the effects of miR-28-5p on liver CSC’s self-renewal and tumorigenesis were dependent on IGF-1. The correlation between miR-28-5p and IGF-1 was confirmed in human HCC tissues. Furthermore, the miR-28-5p knockdown HCC cells were more sensitive to sorafenib treatment. Analysis of patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) further demonstrated that the miR-28-5p may predict sorafenib benefits in HCC patients. Conclusion. Our findings revealed the crucial role of the miR-28-5p in liver CSC expansion and sorafenib response, rendering miR-28-5p an optimal therapeutic target for HCC.
Psychometric Properties of Sensory Processing and Self-Regulation Checklist (SPSRC)
Authors: Lai Cynthia Y. Y. , Yung Trevor W. K. , Gomez Ivan N. B. , Siu Andrew M. H.
Published: December 2019

Background. Some children may encounter difficulties in processing sensory stimuli, which may affect their ability to participate in activities of daily living. Self-regulation abilities may also affect children on how to process different sensory experiences. The Sensory Processing and Self-Regulation Checklist (SPSRC) was developed as a single, parent-reported instrument for the examination of sensory processing and self-regulation difficulties in children. Aims. This study is aimed at evaluating the psychometric properties of the SPSRC and examine the patterns of self-regulation and sensory processing in children with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods and Procedures. The contents of the SPSRC were validated by a group of experts, and a field test was subsequently conducted to examine the reliability and validity of this instrument in a sample of 997 typically developing children and 78 children with ASD. Outcomes and Results. The results of the validation and field test analyses suggest that the SPSRC exhibits high internal consistency, good intrarater reliability, and a valid ability to measure and discriminate sensory processing and self-regulation in children aged 3–8 years with and without ASD. Conclusions and Implications. The current results supported the reliability and validity of SPSRC to assess a child’s sensory processing and self-regulation performance in activities of daily living. The study findings warrant further investigation to compare the performance of the SPSRC with laboratory-based tests, as this would better elucidate sensory responsivity in children with sensory modulation disorders from both clinical and research perspectives.
Strengthening and Rehabilitation of U-Shaped RC Bridges Using Substitute Cable Ducts
Authors: Svoboda Adam , Klusáček Ladislav , Olšák Martin
Published: December 2019

The presented paper deals with strengthening and rehabilitation of U-shaped reinforced concrete bridges from the period of 1905–1930 using post-tensioning, which is a suitable, reliable, and durable method. These bridges have two main beams pulled over the bridge deck, which is supported by cross girders. The cross girders connect the two main beams forming a half-frame in the transverse direction, which provides spatial rigidity to the structure. The spans of these bridges are usually between 15 and 25 m. The high efficiency of post-tensioning can be seen on many implemented applications for bridge reconstructions worldwide. However, in this paper, the post-tensioning method is extended by a unique structural system of substitute cable ducts that allows for significantly expanding applicability of this method on existing concrete bridges. This method is highly recommended due to minimization of interventions into the constructions, unseen method of cable arrangement, and hence the absence of impact on appearance, which is appreciated not only in case of valuable historical structures but in general as well. In conclusion, the post-tensioning by monostrands in substitute cable ducts is a highly efficient method for strengthening of existing bridges in order to increase their load-bearing capacities in terms of current traffic load and to extend their service life. This method was also verified by monitoring the behavior of rehabilitated bridges before and after strengthening.
The Pre- and Postoperative FIB-4 Indexes Are Good Predictors to the Outcomes of HBV-Related HCC Patients after Resection
Authors: Tsai Meng-Yun , Yen Yi-Hao , Huang Pao-Yuan , Sou Fai-Meng , Lin Chih-Che , Cho Wei-Ru , Wang Hsin-Ming , Chen Ding-Wei , Chang Kuo-Chin , Wu Cheng-Kun , Hu Tsung-Hui , Tsai Ming-Chao
Published: December 2019

Background and Aim. Liver fibrosis is associated with the prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after resection. The fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index is an accurate and noninvasive marker to determine the degree of liver fibrosis. Here, we evaluated the effect of pre- and postoperative FIB-4 index in predicting the outcomes after resection of HCC in patients who have chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection. Methods. A total of 534 CHB patients with HCC who received curative hepatectomy between 2001 and 2016 at Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan, were enrolled in this study. The impact of the FIB-4 index (preoperative and the 1st year after operation) on overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) was evaluated. Results. There was a significant association between the preoperative FIB-4 index and Metavir fibrosis stage (p<0.01). The multivariate analysis showed that preoperative FIB‐4>2 is an independent risk factor for RFS and OS after HCC curative resection [hazard ratio (HR), 1.902; 95% CI, 1.491–2.460; p<0.001, and HR, 2.207; 95% CI, 1.420–3.429; p<0.001, respectively]. Notably, preoperative FIB-4 is also an independent risk factor for RFS (HR, 1.219; p=0.035) in noncirrhotic patients. Furthermore, patients had deteriorated FIB-4 1 year after operation [definition: the value the 1st year FIB‐4 after operation minus preoperative FIB‐4>1] and had an adverse outcome in RFS and OS (p<0.001, both). Conclusion. The pre and postoperative FIB-4 indexes are useful clinical markers to predict the prognosis in HBV-HCC patients after curative hepatectomy.
The Association of Autoantibodies in Hyperthyroid Heart Disease Combined with Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Zhang Xiujuan , Chen Lin , Sheng Jianping , Li Chaoying , He Yong , Han WenXia
Published: December 2019

Hyperthyroidism is a clinical state that results from increased thyroid hormone levels which has a significant impact on cardiac function and structure. Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in iodine-replete areas. Hyperthyroid heart disease may be associated with pulmonary hypertension in patients who have overt hyperthyroidism. To investigate the association of pulmonary hypertension induced by hyperthyroid heart disease and autoantibody, one hundred and one cases with hyperthyroid heart disease who were consecutively admitted to the inpatient department of endocrinology and metabolism of the Shandong Provincial Hospital between November 2014 and April 2018 were collected and analyzed statistically. According to the Independent samples T-test, variance analysis, chi-square test, Pearson linear correlation analysis, and logistic regression, there was a good correlation between pulmonary artery systolic pressure and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and receptor antibodies (TRAb) (r = 0.264, P=0.025) (OR = 1.037, P=0.029), but there was no significant correlation between the pulmonary artery systolic pressure and other thyroid-related parameters (FT3, FT4, TSH, anti-TPO, and anti-TG). Based on variance analysis, PASP rose as the level of TRAb gets higher. What is more, patients with HHD combined with PH showed a significantly higher serum level of TRAb; moreover, serum TRAb concentration was remarkably correlated with the PASP level. Therefore, TRAb participates in the process of pulmonary hypertension caused by hyperthyroid heart disease.
It Takes Two (Genomes) to Cancer: Paired Viral and Host Transcriptome Analysis Provides New Insights about EBV Carcinogenicity
Authors: Mbulaiteye Sam M. , Prokunina-Olsson Ludmila
Published: December 2019

The discovery of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) in 1964 gave birth to the field of viral oncology. Despite significant scientific and clinical developments in research on several other viruses discovered and linked to cancer risk much later, our understanding of EBV as a carcinogen and a possible target for therapeutic interventions remains limited. In this issue of Cancer Research, Chakravorty and colleagues present results of massive reanalysis of public RNA-sequencing data for 291 control and 1,051 tumor samples representing 15 cancer types. Their paired analysis of the viral and host transcriptome sheds light on mechanisms of EBV carcinogenicity and provides new leads for translational applications.

See related article by Chakravorty et al., p. 6010
How Did We Get Here?: A Historical Review and Critical Analysis of Anticoagulation Therapy Following Mechanical Valve Replacement
Authors: MacIsaac Sarah , Jaffer Iqbal H. , Belley-Côté Emilie P. , McClure Graham R. , Eikelboom John W. , Whitlock Richard P.
Published: December 2019

Managing severe valvular heart disease with mechanical valve replacement necessitates lifelong anticoagulation with a vitamin K antagonist. Optimal anticoagulation intensity for patients with mechanical valves remains uncertain; current recommendations are inconsistent across guideline bodies and largely based on expert opinion. In this review, we outline the history of anticoagulation therapy in patients with mechanical heart valves and critically evaluate current antithrombotic guidelines for these patients. We conclude that randomized trials evaluating optimal anticoagulation intensity in patients with mechanical valves are needed, and that future guidelines must better justify antithrombotic treatment recommendations.
Double-Blind Randomized Phase 3 Study Comparing Esaxerenone (CS-3150) and Eplerenone in Patients With Essential Hypertension (ESAX-HTN Study)
Authors: Ito Sadayoshi , Itoh Hiroshi , Rakugi Hiromi , Okuda Yasuyuki , Yoshimura Motonobu , Yamakawa Satoru
Published: December 2019

Mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) are implicated in the pathology of hypertension. MR blockers are recommended for the treatment of salt-sensitive or resistant hypertension. However, use of currently available MR blockers is limited by adverse events. This phase 3 multicenter, randomized, double-blind study compared the efficacy and safety of esaxerenone, a new selective nonsteroidal MR blocker, at 2.5 and 5 mg/day and eplerenone 50 mg/day in Japanese patients with essential hypertension. After a 4-week washout period, 1001 eligible adults with hypertension were randomized evenly to esaxerenone 2.5 or 5 mg/day or eplerenone 50 mg/day treatments, taken orally once daily for 12 weeks. Primary end points were changes in sitting systolic or diastolic blood pressure (BP) from baseline at the end of treatment. Esaxerenone 2.5 mg/day was noninferior to eplerenone for reductions in sitting and 24-hour BP. Reductions in BP with esaxerenone 5 mg/day were significantly greater than those with esaxerenone 2.5 mg/day. Changes in diurnal BP showed persistent 24-hour antihypertensive effects in all treatment groups. The proportions of patients achieving target sitting BP (<140/90 mm Hg) were 31.5%, 41.2%, and 27.5% with esaxerenone 2.5 and 5 mg/day and eplerenone 50 mg/day, respectively. Incidences of adverse events (all mild or moderate) were similar across treatment groups. These results indicate that esaxerenone is an effective and well-tolerated MR blocker in Japanese patients with essential hypertension, with BP-lowering activity at least equivalent to eplerenone.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02890173.