bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microsporidia Interact with Host Cell Mitochondria via Voltage-Dependent Anion Channels Using Sporoplasm Surface Protein 1
Authors: Han Bing , Ma Yanfen , Tu Vincent , Tomita Tadakimi , Mayoral Joshua , Williams Tere , Horta Aline , Huang Huan , Weiss Louis M.
Published: August 2019

Microsporidia are important opportunistic human pathogens in immune-suppressed individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS and recipients of organ transplants. The sporoplasm is critical for establishing microsporidian infection. Despite the biological importance of this structure for transmission, there is limited information about its structure and composition that could be targeted for therapeutic intervention. Here, we identified a novel
E. hellem
sporoplasm surface protein, EhSSP1, and demonstrated that it can bind to host cell mitochondria via host VDAC. Our data strongly suggest that the interaction between SSP1 and VDAC is important for the association of mitochondria with the parasitophorous vacuole during microsporidian infection. In addition, binding of SSP1 to the host cell is associated with the final steps of invasion in the invasion synapse.
Vitamin D status among adults (18–65 years old) attending primary healthcare centres in Qatar: a cross-sectional analysis of the Electronic Medical Records for the year 2017
Authors: Zainel Abdul-Jaleel A Latif , Qotba Hamda , Al Nuaimi Ahmed , Syed Mohamed
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among individuals attending primary healthcare facilities in Qatar and to assess the association between vitamin D deficiency and some medical conditions in persons aged 18–65 years old.

Setting

The study was undertaken in publicly funded primary healthcare services in the State of Qatar.

Participants

A total of 102 342 participants aged between 18 and 65 years old with a valid serum vitamin D test result during the year 2017.

Outcome measures

Serum level <10 ng/mL (<25 nmol/L) was defined as severe vitamin D deficiency, a serum level of <20 ng/mL (<50 nmol/L) was defined as vitamin D deficiency and a serum level <30 ng/mL (<75 nmol/L) defined as vitamin D insufficiency.

Results

The prevalence rate of severe vitamin D deficiency was 14.1% among study participants with no history of vitamin D replacement therapy in the previous months. The prevalence rate of vitamin D deficiency was as high as 71.4% and that of vitamin D insufficiency was up to 92.7%. None of the five chronic conditions explored in the study (diabetes, hypertension, asthma, stroke and cardiovascular disease) had an obvious association with severe vitamin D deficiency status in a bivariate analysis. However, multivariate modelling showed that (adjusting for age, gender, body mass index and nationality and each of the included chronic conditions) hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and stroke placed an individual at a higher risk of having an associated severe vitamin D deficiency status.

Conclusion

Although not comprehensive and nationally representative, this study is suggestive of a higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among young adults, females, Qatari nationality and those with higher body mass index. Multivariate modelling showed that hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and stroke were associated with a higher risk of severe vitamin D deficiency status.
Protocol for a feasibility randomised trial of low-intensity interventions for antenatal depression: ADAGIO trial comparing interpersonal counselling with cognitive behavioural therapy
Authors: Ingram Jenny , Johnson Debbie , Johnson Sarah , O'Mahen Heather A , Kessler David , Taylor Hazel , Law Roslyn , Round Jeff , Ford Jenny , Hopley Rebecca , Glynn Joel , Culpin Iryna , Evans Jonathan
Published: August 2019

Introduction

One in eight women suffer from depression during pregnancy. Currently, low-intensity brief treatment based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the only talking treatment widely available in the National Health Service (NHS) for mild and moderate depression. CBT involves identifying and changing unhelpful negative thoughts and behaviours to improve mood. Mothers in our patient advisory groups requested greater treatment choice. Interpersonal counselling (IPC) is a low-intensity version of interpersonal therapy. It may have important advantages during pregnancy over CBT because it targets relationship problems, changes in role and previous losses (eg, miscarriage). We aim to compare CBT and IPC for pregnant women with depression in a feasibility study.

Methods and analysis

A two-arm non-blinded randomised feasibility study of 60 women will be conducted in two UK localities. Women with depression will be identified through midwife clinics and ultrasound scanning appointments and randomised to receive six sessions of IPC or CBT. In every other way, these women will receive usual care. Women thought to have severe depression will be referred for more intensive treatment. After 12 weeks, we will measure women’s mood, well-being, relationship satisfaction and use of healthcare. Women, their partners and staff providing treatments will be interviewed to understand whether IPC is an acceptable approach and whether changes should be introduced before applying to run a larger trial.

Several groups of patients with depression during pregnancy have contributed to our study design. A patient advisory group will meet and advise us during the study.

Ethics and dissemination

Study results will inform the design of a larger multicentre randomised controlled trial (RCT). Our findings will be shared through public engagement events, papers and reports to organisations within the NHS. National Research Ethics Service Committee approved the study protocol.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN11513120.
The term ‘Pilot Study’ is misused in veterinary medicine: a critical assessment
Authors: Rishniw Mark , White Maurice Edward
Published: August 2019

Authors commonly use the term ‘Pilot Study’ in the veterinary literature. The term has a specific definition in medical literature, but is not defined in veterinary literature. Therefore, we sought to examine the frequency of the use of the term and the characteristics of studies using the term in the article title, and derive the intended meaning of the term. We identified all articles in veterinary literature using the term in the article title between 2008 and 2017. We then examined specific characteristics of articles published between 2008 and 2012. We found use of the term is increasing (P<0.0001). Of articles using the term between 2008 and 2012, only 20 per cent led to a larger, more comprehensive verifying study. Most garnered few citations, but 75 per cent were cited in review articles. Pilot studies had a median sample size of 10 subjects. We found comparable studies for each pilot study that did not incorporate the term into their titles. None of the authors of any of the pilot studies defined the term or explained why their study was termed a ‘pilot study’. Journals and authors used the term haphazardly. Our findings indicate that the term ‘Pilot Study’ is meaningless because it meets no specific, consistently adhered‐to criteria. We believe that authors use the term as a means of ‘Deficiency signaling’ to editors, reviewers and readers. We recommend that authors and journals abandon the term in veterinary literature because it serves no purpose, is not used consistently and might harm veterinary medicine.
On a possible quantum manifestation of the perihelion advance in a hydrogen-like atom
Authors: Djehiche Abdelmadjid , Belabbas Abdelmoumene , Bouda Ahmed
Published: August 2019

In a static and spherically symmetric case, by following an analog procedure for obtaining a Reissner–Nordstrom solution, thanks to the use of both the Einstein-type equation for an electromagnetic field as well as the Maxwell equation in curved space–time, we managed to find the Schwarzschild-like solution outside a charged sphere Q in interaction with a test charged particle q at an atomic scale where the gravitational force is negligibly small compared to the electrostatic force. Then, in the context of an extension of the equivalence principle to the electromagnetic interaction, we have studied the hydrogen atom. At the atomic scale, where quantum effects can no longer be ignored and the concept of trajectory is abandoned, the corrective terms derived from the geodesic equation for the electron are used within a perturbation theory. At the first order, these radial corrections of the Hamiltonian can partially remove the degeneracy of Bohr’s levels through a Lamb-like shift of the energy levels (2s) and (2p), estimated to E(2s) – E(2p) = 2.4595087102 × 10−4 eV. To match the experimental value of the Lamb shift, 4.372 × 10−6 eV, we have postulated the existence of an electromagnetic background that would describe statistically the vacuum energy by the introduction of a “cosmological”-like constant in the Einstein-like equation for electromagnetism. We have pointed out a divergence when n → +∞ in energy corrections due to a “cosmological” constant that technically could be overcome by the use of a cutoff as well as the renormalization of the electron’s mass.
Approximation by max-product sampling Kantorovich operators with generalized kernels
Authors: Coroianu Lucian , Costarelli Danilo , Gal Sorin G. , Vinti Gianluca
Published: August 2019

In a recent paper, for max-product sampling operators based on general kernels with bounded generalized absolute moments, we have obtained several pointwise and uniform convergence properties on bounded intervals or on the whole real axis, including a Jackson-type estimate in terms of the first uniform modulus of continuity. In this paper, first, we prove that for the Kantorovich variants of these max-product sampling operators, under the same assumptions on the kernels, these convergence properties remain valid. Here, we also establish the [Formula: see text] convergence, and quantitative estimates with respect to the [Formula: see text] norm, [Formula: see text]-functionals and [Formula: see text]-modulus of continuity as well. The results are tested on several examples of kernels and possible extensions to higher dimensions are suggested.
The Belt and Road Initiative: Opportunities and Risks for Africa’s Connectivity
Authors: Githaiga Nancy Muthoni , Burimaso Alfred , Wang Bing , Ahmed Salum Mohammed
Published: August 2019

This article examines the implications of the Chinese-led Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for Africa’s connectivity. The BRI seeks to rebuild the ancient Silk Road trade route with the overall goal of opening global markets, thus creating a trade and investment network involving three continents: Africa, Asia, and Europe. Using secondary data, this article assesses the opportunities and potential challenges of the BRI for Africa with a special focus on various BRI national projects. It concludes that China’s involvement in infrastructure projects in Africa and the BRI’s vision for increased connectivity among beneficiary countries can lead to integrated and streamlined economic and infrastructure development in Africa, while improving China’s corporate and product image, generating mutual benefits to both China and Africa. This article also argues that for those BRI-based benefits to materialize, certain challenges need to be dealt with, particularly security risks and corruption, which could increase the long-term costs of infrastructure projects for countries involved.
Strategic Stability in Cyberspace: A Chinese View
Authors: Zhou Hongren
Published: August 2019

As the strategic importance of cyber security increases, the question of how to foster a stable cyber order compatible with the current international order is one of the most urgent issues for the international community. International cyber governance and strategic cyber stability maintenance have thus become two emerging fields in international studies. Generally, there are three states of stability in cyberspace: stable, delicately stable, and unstable. To promote the study of cyber order and enhance rational decision-making, it is necessary to adopt a cyclic perspective and fully explore the transition of cyberspace among the three states. International cyber governance is mainly about managing the cycle of transition of cyberspace and designing robust institutions to prevent instability; in these institutions, international norms, rules, and law will be made as essential guidance for cyber behavior of individual countries. As existing human knowledge and theoretical frameworks are the basis of studies on cyber strategic stability, it is imperative that effective dialogue and joint research among all international stakeholders be conducted on issues of their common concern. This helps to shape the strategic thinking and policy deliberation of individual countries on cyberspace and foster an international order that is conducive to cyber strategic stability.
Policy Adaptation in Hierarchical Attribute-based Access Control Systems
Authors: Das Saptarshi , Sural Shamik , Vaidya Jaideep , Atluri Vijayalakshmi
Published: August 2019

In Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC), access to resources is given based on the attributes of subjects, objects, and environment. There is an imminent need for the development of efficient algorithms that enable migration to ABAC. However, existing policy mining approaches do not consider possible adaptation to the policy of a similar organization. In this article, we address the problem of automatically determining an optimal assignment of attribute values to subjects for enabling the desired accesses to be granted while minimizing the number of ABAC rules used by each subject or other appropriate metrics. We show the problem to be NP-Complete and propose a heuristic solution.
Turbulence with Large Thermal and Compositional Density Variations
Authors: Livescu Daniel
Published: August 2019

Density variations in fluid flows can arise due to acoustic or thermal fluctuations, compositional changes during mixing of fluids with different molar masses, or phase inhomogeneities. In particular, thermal and compositional (with miscible fluids) density variations have many similarities, such as in how the flow interacts with a shock wave. Two limiting cases have been of particular interest: ( a) the single-fluid non-Oberbeck–Boussinesq low–Mach number approximation for flows with temperature variations, which describes vertical convection, and ( b) the incompressible limit of mixing between miscible fluids with different molar masses, which describes the Rayleigh–Taylor instability. The equations describing these cases are remarkably similar, with some differences in the molecular transport terms. In all cases, strong inertial effects lead to significant asymmetries of mixing, turbulence, and the shape of mixing layers. In addition, density variations require special attention in turbulence models to avoid viscous contamination of the large scales.
Flaviviridae Viruses and Oxidative Stress: Implications for Viral Pathogenesis
Authors: Zhang Zhenzhen , Rong Liang , Li Yi-Ping
Published: August 2019

Oxidative stress is induced once the balance of generation and neutralization of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is broken in the cell, and it plays crucial roles in a variety of natural and diseased processes. Infections of Flaviviridae viruses trigger oxidative stress, which affects both the cellular metabolism and the life cycle of the viruses. Oxidative stress associated with specific viral proteins, experimental culture systems, and patient infections, as well as its correlations with the viral pathogenesis attracts much research attention. In this review, we primarily focus on hepatitis C virus (HCV), dengue virus (DENV), Zika virus (ZIKV), Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), West Nile virus (WNV), and tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) as representatives of Flaviviridae viruses and we summarize the mechanisms involved in the relevance of oxidative stress for virus-associated pathogenesis. We discuss the current understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of oxidative stress induced by Flaviviridae viruses and highlight the relevance of autophagy and DNA damage in the life cycle of viruses. Understanding the crosstalk between viral infection and oxidative stress-induced molecular events may offer new avenues for antiviral therapeutics.
Combination of Sodium Selenite and Doxorubicin Prodrug Ac-Phe-Lys-PABC-ADM Affects Gastric Cancer Cell Apoptosis in Xenografted Mice
Authors: Wu Bo , Ge Jian , Zhang Zixiong , Huang Chuying , Li Xiaodan , Tan Zifu , Fang Xiaojun , Sun Jianhua
Published: August 2019

The incidence of gastric cancer is extremely high in China, prompting the development of effective therapeutic strategies. Sodium selenite (SS) affects the proliferation and redifferentiation of gastric cancer cells and the Adriamycin prodrug Ac-Phe-Lys-PABC-ADM (PADM) reduces toxicity in gastric cancer treatment. However, the mechanisms involved therein remain unclear. In this study, nude mice were transplanted with SGC-7901 gastric cancer cells to construct a tumor xenograft model. After administration of SS and PADM, tumor weight and size were reduced. In addition, the levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, creatinine, and lactate dehydrogenase were decreased, indicating improved hepatic and renal function and inhibited cancer cell metabolism. Furthermore, combined treatment of SS and PADM downregulated the expression of cell cycle-related proteins (cyclin-dependent kinase 4, Ki67, cyclin E, and cyclin D1), elevated that of proapoptosis proteins (Bax, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9, and P53), and upregulated that of mitochondrial apoptosis-associated proteins (apoptotic protease activating factor 1 and second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases). In conclusion, combined treatment of SS and PADM effectively promoted apoptosis in gastric cancer xenografts via the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway.
Danhong Injection Alleviates Postoperative Intra-abdominal Adhesion in a Rat Model
Authors: Wu Yunhua , Wei Guangbing , Yu Junhui , Chen Zilu , Xu Zhengshui , Shen Rui , Liang Ting , Zheng Lu , Wang Kang , Sun Xuejun , Li Xuqi
Published: August 2019

Background. Among all the common complications that occur after abdominal surgery, intestinal adhesion is perhaps the most unpleasant one. However, current methods to treat and prevent intestinal adhesion are limited; thus, exploring new methods to prevent and treat intestinal adhesion is greatly needed. In this study, we demonstrated that Danhong injection (DHI) may be used as a promising method to prevent and treat intra-abdominal adhesion in a rat model. Materials and Methods. Forty-eight rats were randomly divided into six groups. Except for the sham-operated group, all rats underwent cecal abrasion to establish an adhesion model. After the operation, the rats in the DHI-treated groups received different doses of DHI via the tail vein daily, while the other group was treated with the same volume of saline solution. Seven days after the operation, all rats were sacrificed, and the degree of adhesion was evaluated by Nair’s scoring system. The extent of inflammation in the adhesion tissue was detected by HE staining and the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). The collagen deposition was assessed by Sirius red staining and α-SMA, MMP9, t-PA, and PAI-1 levels. Oxidative stress was indicated by the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in adhesion tissues and by immunohistochemical labeling of Nrf2. Furthermore, rat primary peritoneal mesothelial cells (RPMCs) were treated with H2O2 and DHI, and NF-κB phosphorylation was detected to illustrate the effect of DHI on oxidative stress. Results. The intra-abdominal adhesion scores were significantly decreased in the groups treated with a high dose of DHI compared with the control groups, and the degree of inflammation, fibrosis, and oxidative stress was also significantly decreased. DHI treatment significantly reduced the levels of TNF-α, TGF-β1, and PAI and increased the expression levels of MMP9, Nrf2, and t-PA in the adhesion tissues. ROS levels and NF-κB phosphorylation were significantly reduced in DHI-treated RPMCs compared with the control RPMCs. Conclusion. DHI alleviates the formation of postoperative intra-abdominal adhesions by inhibiting inflammation, collagen deposition, and oxidative stress in a rat model and may serve as a promising drug to prevent intra-abdominal adhesions.
High Expression of Acid-Sensing Ion Channel 2 (ASIC2) in Bone Cells in Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures
Authors: Lee Ching-Yu , Huang Tsung-Jen , Wu Meng-Huang , Li Yen-Yao , Lee Kuan-Der
Published: August 2019

Little is known about the function of acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) in bone cells or osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVF). This study delineated ASICs expression in adult human bone marrow-mesenchymal stem cells- (BM-MSC-) derived osteoblasts and in OVF bone cells. Adult BM-MSC-derived osteoblasts were isolated and cultured in different pH values. Osteogenic markers as alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteopontin (OPN), and osteocalcin (OC) mRNA were assessed. Western blots method was applied to analyze ASICs protein expression in different pH values. Amiloride was added into the osteogenic media to analyze the Na+/K+ ATPase change. We harvested the vertebral cancellous bone through a bone biopsy needle in 26 OVF patients when performing percutaneous vertebroplasty. Six vertebral bone specimens obtained from 4 patients with high-energy vertebral fractures were used as the control. The reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was performed to analyze the quantitative mRNA expression of ASICs. Osteogenic markers as ALP, OPN, and OC mRNA were higher expressed in increasing pH values throughout osteoblastogenesis. ASIC proteins were higher expressed in lower pH media, especially ASIC3, and ASIC4. The highest protein expression at days 7, 14, and 21 was ASIC2, ASIC4, and ASIC3, respectively. Expression of Na+/K+ ATPase was significantly decreased in cultured osteoblasts by addition of amiloride into the pH 6.9 osteogenic media. ASIC2 mRNA was most highly expressed with a 65.93-fold increase in the biopsied vertebral bone cells in OVF compared with the control. In conclusion, we found osteoblastogenesis was reduced in an acidic environment, and ASIC2, ASIC3, and ASIC4 were most highly expressed in turn during osteoblastogenesis within acidic media. ASIC2 was the most abundantly expressed gene in human bone cells in OVF compared with the control. ASIC2 could be crucial in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis and could serve as a therapeutic target for antiosteoporotic therapies.
An Approach Method to Evaluate Wood Emissivity
Authors: Pitarma Rui , Crisóstomo João
Published: August 2019

Throughout the ages, wood has been used in constructions. Therefore, most of the built heritage is made with wooden structures. Wood is a renewable, versatile, long-lasting, and environmentally sustainable material. It is comfortable, is aesthetically very valued, and has crucial environmental importance. Thus, being a widely used long-life material, it requires techniques for monitoring its state of integrity. Inspection needs to be done in production, in the work site, and during its useful life. Infrared thermography (IRT) is a nondestructive, noninvasive, noncontact diagnostic technique. It evaluates the surface temperature of objects based on the emitted radiation. Nevertheless, the accurate measurement of temperature is strongly dependent on the emissivity value of the material. This paper presents an expedite method to measure wood emissivity values, using active infrared thermography. Wood samples of the Pinus pinaster species were used in the experiments. The thermal contrast of the samples was performed by applying three different heating methods: conduction, convection, and radiation. The emissivity values of the three tests were compared with each other and with data from the literature, showing satisfactory results and validating the presented methodology. The procedure can also be adopted, with some adjustments, to other materials and in situ analysis, contributing to emissivity measurements.
Analysis of GPR Wave Propagation in Complex Underground Structures Using CUDA-Implemented Conformal FDTD Method
Authors: Lei Jianwei , Wang Zibin , Fang Hongyuan , Ding Xin , Zhang Xiaowang , Yang Man , Wang Haitao
Published: August 2019

Ground penetrating radar (GPR), as a kind of fast, effective, and nondestructive tool, has been widely applied to nondestructive testing of road quality. The finite-difference time-domain method (FDTD) is the common numerical method studying the GPR wave propagation law in layered structure. However, the numerical accuracy and computational efficiency are not high because of the Courant-Friedrichs-Lewy (CFL) stability condition. In order to improve the accuracy and efficiency of FDTD simulation model, a parallel conformal FDTD algorithm based on graphics processor unit (GPU) acceleration technology and surface conformal technique was developed. The numerical simulation results showed that CUDA-implemented conformal FDTD method could greatly reduce computational time and the pseudo-waves generated by the ladder approximation. And the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method are higher than the traditional FDTD method in simulating GPR wave propagation in two-dimensional (2D) complex underground structures.
Localized Amyloidosis of the Upper Aerodigestive Tract: Complex Analysis of the Cellular Infiltrate and the Amyloid Mass
Authors: Turiak Lilla , Kaszás Bálint , Katona Krisztián , Lacza Ágnes , Márk László , Vékey Károly , Drahos László , Tornóczky Tamás
Published: August 2019

Objectives. The aim of this study was to analyse the composition of amyloid mass and the plasmacytic infiltrate of localized amyloidosis of the upper aerodigestive tract. Methods. Biopsy materials were studied by light microscopy, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and mRNA in situ hybridization (mRNA-ISH). The amyloid mass was also analysed with high-performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry- (HPLC-MS-) based proteomics. Results. Nodular and diffuse forms of amyloid deposition were detected. IHC analysis revealed λ-light chain (LC) in two cases, κ-LC in one case. The remaining two were positive with both. Proteins, well known from other amyloidoses like amyloid A (AA), prealbumin/transthyretin (PA), apolipoprotein A-I (ApoAI), and amyloid P component (APC), and also keratin were found with variable intensities in the cases. HPLC-MS revealed dozens of proteins with both LCs in all the lesions but sometimes with surprisingly small intensities. mRNA-ISH analysis revealed identical λ and κ dominance and only one normal κ/λ cell ratio. Conclusion. Cellular infiltrate and protein components in the amyloid showed congruent results in all but one case. The only exception with normal cell ratio and λ-dominant amyloid could be originated from the different protein-secreting activity of plasma cell clones. HPLC-MS analysis explored both LCs in all the amyloid in variable amount, but other proteins with much higher intensities like keratins, apolipoprotein A-IV (ApoAIV), were also detected. Proteins like AA, PA, ApoAI, and APC, previously known about amyloid-forming capability, also appeared. This indicates that localized amyloid in the upper aerodigestive tract is not a homogenous immunoglobulin mass but a mixture of proteins. The sometimes very low light chain intensities might also suggest that not all the localized amyloidosis cases of the upper aerodigestive tract are of convincingly AL type, and the analysis of the cellular infiltrate might indicate that not all are monoclonal.
Study on the Process Optimization and Wear Resistance of Electron Beam Cladding WC-CoCr Coating on Inconel 617 Surface
Authors: Liu Hailang , Huang Yiping , Wang Bo , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: August 2019

In order to enhance the high-temperature wear resistance of the nickel-base alloy, the electron beam is used to clad the WC-CoCr composite coating on the Inconel 617 surface. A six-factor and three-level orthogonal experiment is designed using Minitab software with scanning beam current, frequency, high voltage, beam spot diameter, offset sweep amplitude, and scanning speed as variables, and the variance and range of the test results are analyzed. The optimal cladding process parameters were determined according to the influence of various factors on the quality characteristics of the cladding layer. The wear behavior at 200°C, 600°C, and 1000°C and microstructure and phase composition of coating before and after electron beam treatment were tested. The results show that the ion exchange between the coating and the substrate is carried out after electron beam treatment. The WC, CoCr, (Fe, Ni)C6, Fe3W3C phase, and solid solution of α-Co were found in the cladding layer, and the microstructure of the coating is mainly dendrite and eutectic on CoCr substrate. The test of wear behavior at high temperature shows that the wear rate of the coating treated by electron beam at 200°C, 600°C, and 1000°C is 10.14 times, 6 times, and 2.29 times lower than that of the substrate, respectively. Moreover, the furrow and scratches of the cladding layer are less than those of the substrate at high temperature. The wear resistance of the coating was improved.
Effect of Process Parameters on Short Fiber Orientation along the Melt Flow Direction in Water-Assisted Injection Molded Part
Authors: Zhou Haiying , Liu Hesheng , Jiang Qingsong , Kuang Tangqing , Chen Zhixin , Li Weiping
Published: August 2019

The short fiber orientation (SFO) distribution in the water-assisted injection molding (WAIM) is more complicated than that in traditional injection molding due to the new process parameters. In this work, an improved fiber orientation tensor method was used to simulate the SFO in WAIM. The result was compared with the scanning electron micrograph, which was consistent with the experiments. The effect of six process parameters, including filling time, melt temperature, mold temperature, delay time, water pressure, and water temperature, on the SFO along the melt flow direction were studied through orthogonal experimental design, range analysis, and variance analysis. An artificial neural network was used to establish the nonlinear agent model between the process parameters and A11 representing the fiber orientation in melt flow direction. Results show that water pressure, melt temperature, and water temperature have significant effects on SFO. The three-dimensional (3D) response surfaces and contour plots show that the values of A11 decrease with the increase in water pressure and melt temperature and increase as the water temperature rises.
Gait Characteristics of Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy during Inclined Treadmill Walking under a Virtual Reality Environment
Authors: Ma Ye , Liang Yali , Kang Xiaodong , Shao Ming , Siemelink Lilja , Zhang Yanxin
Published: August 2019

Objective. To investigate gait characteristics in children with spastic cerebral palsy during inclined treadmill walking under a virtual reality environment. Methods. Ten spastic cerebral palsy (CP) children and ten typically developing (TD) children were asked to walk at their comfortable speed on a treadmill at a ground level and 10° inclined. Three-dimensional kinematic data and ground reaction force data were captured in a computer-assisted rehabilitation environment system. Kinetic parameters and dynamic balance parameters were calculated using a standard biomechanical approach. Results. During uphill walking, both groups decreased walking speed and stride length and increased peak pelvis tilt, ankle dorsiflexion, and hip flexion. Compared with TD children, CP children had decreased walking speed and stride length, decreased peak hip abduction moment, increased stance phase percentage, increased peak ankle dorsiflexion and knee flexion, and increased peak hip extension moment. The peak trunk rotation angle, ankle angle at initial contact, and stride length showed a significant group∗walking condition interaction effect. Conclusions. CP children showed similar adjustments for most gait parameters during uphill walking as TD children. With a lower walking speed, CP children could maintain similar dynamic balance as TD children. Uphill walking magnifies the existing abnormal gait patterns of the cerebral palsy children. We suggest that during a treadmill training with an inclination, the walking speed should be carefully controlled in the case of improving peak joint loading too much.
Volcanogenic CO2 Degassing in the Songliao Continental Rift System, NE China
Authors: Zhao Wenbin , Guo Zhengfu , Lei Ming , Zhang Maoliang , Ma Lin , Fortin Danielle , Zheng Guodong
Published: August 2019

The Wudalianchi monogenetic volcanic field (WMVF) is located in the Songliao basin within a major continental rift system in NE China. Bubbling springs and diffuse degassing from soils are typical features of the WMVF. Chemical compositions and C-He isotope analyses revealed that the cold spring gases might originate from the enriched upper mantle (EM), which resulted from the mixing between slab materials (subducted organic sediments and carbonates) in the mantle transition zone (MTZ) and the ambient depleted mantle. These EM-derived volatiles experienced variable degrees of crustal input, including both continental organic metasediments and crustal carbonates during their ascending path to the surface. The estimated results of the degassing CO2 fluxes, combined with previous geophysical evidence, suggest that the CO2 degassing activities become weaker from early to late in Quaternary.
Identification of Key Pathways and Genes of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Specific Neutrophil Phenotype
Authors: Wang Dong , Li Yajuan , Gu Changping , Liu Mengjie , Wang Yuelan
Published: August 2019

Despite over 50 years of clinical and basic studies, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is still a critical challenge with high mortality worldwide. The severity of neutrophil activation was associated with disease severity. However, the detailed pathophysiology of the circulating polymorphonuclear neutrophil activation in ARDS remains unclear. To identify key pathways and genes in the ARDS-specific neutrophil phenotype distinct from sepsis, the datasets of blood polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) from patients with ARDS (GSE76293) and from sepsis patients (GSE49757) were chosen from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and analyzed using bioinformatics methods. A total of 220 differential expressed genes (DEGs) were overlapped between GSE49757 and GSE76293 in a Venn diagram. Pathway enrichment analysis results showed that DEGs in GSE76293 were mainly enriched in the MAPK signaling pathway, FoxO signaling pathway, and AMPK signaling pathway relative to GSE49757. We identified 30 hub genes in the protein-protein interaction network. By comparing with GSE49757, we speculated that GAPDH, MAPK8, PIK3CB, and MMP9 may play important roles in the progression of ARDS-specific circulating neutrophil activation. The findings may provide novel insights into the development of promising targets for the diagnosis and treatment of ARDS in the future.
Viruses in Skin Cancer (VIRUSCAN): Study Design and Baseline Characteristics of a Prospective Clinic-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Amorrortu Rossybelle P. , Fenske Neil A. , Cherpelis Basil S. , Vijayan Laxmi , Zhao Yayi , Balliu Juliana , Messina Jane L. , Sondak Vernon K. , Giuliano Anna R. , Waterboer Tim , Pawlita Michael , Gheit Tarik , Tommasino Massimo , Rollison Dana E.
Published: August 2019

Background:

Accumulating evidence suggests that cutaneous viral infections are risk factors for the development of keratinocyte carcinomas. The Viruses in Skin Cancer (VIRUSCAN) Study, a prospective cohort study, was established in 2014 to investigate the risk of keratinocyte carcinoma associated with cutaneous human papillomavirus and polyomavirus infection and the possible interaction with ultraviolet radiation exposure (UVR).

Methods/Results:

VIRUSCAN incorporates repeated measures of viral infection using multiple markers of infection and quantitative measures of UVR using a spectrophotometer. Participants were recruited between July 14, 2014 and August 31, 2017 at the University of South Florida Dermatology Clinic in Tampa, FL. After excluding 124 individuals with prevalent keratinocyte carcinomas at baseline, 1,179 participants (53.2% women, 46.8% men, all ages 60 years and older) were followed for up to 4 years with routine skin exams occurring every 6 to 12 months. Here, we present the VIRUSCAN Study design, methods, and baseline characteristics, including demographics, sun exposure behavior, quantitative UVR exposure measurements, and cutaneous viral prevalence, for the full study cohort.

Conclusions:

The VIRUSCAN Study will provide critical temporal evidence needed to assess the causality of the role cutaneous viral infections play in the development of keratinocyte carcinomas, as well as the potential interaction between cutaneous viral infections and UVR exposure.

Impact:

Study findings will be valuable in future development of novel keratinocyte carcinoma prevention strategies.
Prediagnostic Leukocyte Telomere Length and Pancreatic Cancer Survival
Authors: Hamada Tsuyoshi , Yuan Chen , Bao Ying , Zhang Mingfeng , Khalaf Natalia , Babic Ana , Morales-Oyarvide Vicente , Cochrane Barbara B. , Gaziano J. Michael , Giovannucci Edward L. , Kraft Peter , Manson JoAnn E. , Ng Kimmie , Nowak Jonathan A. , Rohan Thomas E. , Sesso Howard D. , Stampfer Meir J. , Amundadottir Laufey T. , Fuchs Charles S. , De Vivo Immaculata , Ogino Shuji , Wolpin Brian M.
Published: August 2019

Background:

Leukocyte telomere length has been associated with risk of subsequent pancreatic cancer. Few prospective studies have evaluated the association of prediagnostic leukocyte telomere length with pancreatic cancer survival.

Methods:

We prospectively examined the association of prediagnostic leukocyte telomere length with overall survival (OS) time among 423 participants diagnosed with pancreatic adenocarcinoma between 1984 and 2008 within the Health Professionals Follow-up Study, Nurses' Health Study, Physicians' Health Study, and Women's Health Initiative. We measured prediagnostic leukocyte telomere length in banked blood samples using quantitative PCR. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate HRs for OS with adjustment for potential confounders. We also evaluated 10 SNPs at the telomerase reverse transcriptase locus.

Results:

Shorter prediagnostic leukocyte telomere length was associated with reduced OS among patients with pancreatic cancer (Ptrend = 0.04). The multivariable-adjusted HR for OS comparing the lowest with highest quintiles of leukocyte telomere length was 1.39 (95% confidence interval, 1.01–1.93), corresponding to a 3-month difference in median OS time. In an analysis excluding cases with blood collected within 2 years of cancer diagnosis, the association was moderately stronger (HR, 1.55; 95% confidence interval, 1.09–2.21; comparing the lowest with highest quintiles; Ptrend = 0.01). No prognostic association or effect modification for the prognostic association of prediagnostic leukocyte telomere length was noted in relation to the studied SNPs.

Conclusions:

Prediagnostic leukocyte telomere length was associated with pancreatic cancer survival.

Impact:

Prediagnostic leukocyte telomere length can be a prognostic biomarker in pancreatic cancer.
A Hypoxia-Inducible HIF1–GAL3ST1-Sulfatide Axis Enhances ccRCC Immune Evasion via Increased Tumor Cell–Platelet Binding
Authors: Robinson Claire M. , Poon Betty P.K. , Kano Yoshihito , Pluthero Fred G. , Kahr Walter H.A. , Ohh Michael
Published: August 2019

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common form of kidney cancer and the major cause of mortality for individuals with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease. ccRCC is characterized most frequently by inactivation of VHL tumor suppressor protein that mediates degradation of the alpha subunit of the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) transcription factor family. HIF has been implicated in disease progression and the aim of this study was to identify novel HIF target genes that may contribute to ccRCC. We show that GAL3ST1, an enzyme that catalyzes the sulfonation of the plasma membrane sulfolipid sulfatide, is among the top 50 upregulated genes in ccRCC tissue relative to matched normal tissue. Increased expression of GAL3ST1 in primary ccRCC correlates with decreased survival. We show that GAL3ST1 is a HIF target gene whose expression is induced upon VHL loss leading to the accumulation of its enzymatic product sulfatide. Notably, platelets bind more efficiently to renal cancer cells with high GAL3ST1-sulfatide expression than to GAL3ST1-sulfatide–negative counterparts, which protects ccRCC cells against natural killer cell–mediated cytotoxicity. These results suggest that GAL3ST1 is a HIF-responsive gene that may contribute to ccRCC development via promoting cancer cell evasion of immune surveillance.

Implications:

Cancer development is in part dependent on evasion of immune response. We identify a HIF target gene product GAL3ST1 that may play a role in this critical process.
Smooth Muscle Cell–Specific Disruption of the BBSome Causes Vascular Dysfunction
Authors: Reho John J. , Guo Deng-Fu , Morgan Donald A. , Rahmouni Kamal
Published: August 2019

The BBSome—a complex consisting of 8 Bardet-Biedl syndrome proteins—is involved in the regulation of various cellular processes. Recently, the BBSome complex has emerged as an important regulator of cardiovascular function with implications for disease. In this study, we examined the role of the BBSome in vascular smooth muscle and its effects on the regulation of cardiovascular function. Smooth muscle–specific disruption of the BBSome through tamoxifen-inducible deletion of
Bbs1
gene—a critical component of the BBSome complex—reduces relaxation and enhances contractility of vascular rings and increases aortic stiffness independent of changes in arterial blood pressure. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that smooth muscle
Bbs1
gene deletion increases vascular angiotensinogen gene expression implicating the renin-angiotensin system in these altered cardiovascular responses. Additionally, we report that smooth muscle–specific Bbs1 knockout mice demonstrate enhanced ET-1 (endothelin-1)–induced contractility of mesenteric arteries—an effect reversed by blockade of the AT1 (angiotensin type 1 receptor) with losartan. These findings highlight the importance of the smooth muscle BBSome in the control of vascular function and arterial stiffness through modulation of renin-angiotensin system signaling.
Associations of Self‐Reported History of Depression and Antidepressant Use Before Stroke Onset With Poststroke Post–Acute Rehabilitation Care—An Exploratory Study: The BASIC (Brain Attack Surveillance in Corpus Christi) Project
Authors: Stulberg Eric L. , Dong Liming , Zheutlin Alexander R. , Kim Sehee , Claflin Edward S. , Skolarus Lesli E. , Morgenstern Lewis B. , Lisabeth Lynda D.
Published: August 2019

Background

Prestroke depression status and post–acute rehabilitation care (
PARC
) are determinants of poststroke depression and function. However, little is known on how prestroke depression status affects
PARC
placement, a possible pathway for upstream intervention. We examined how prestroke depression status affects
PARC
in a population‐based study.

Methods and Results

Incident ischemic stroke cases were from the BASIC (Brain Attack Surveillance in Corpus Christi) Project from 2008 to 2012. Prestroke depression status was self‐reported and categorized as (1) never depressed, (2) history of depression without antidepressant use before stroke onset, or (3) antidepressant use before stroke onset.
PARC
included home, a skilled nursing facility, or an inpatient rehabilitation facility. Confounder‐adjusted multinomial regression models were used to examine the association between prestroke depression status and
PARC
. Adjustment for stroke severity was deferred in the main analyses because it may lie on the causal pathway. There were 548 stroke survivors (mean age 65.3 years, 48.3% female, 62.6% Mexican‐American). The adjusted odds ratios comparing home discharge to a skilled nursing facility were 1.88 (95%
CI
: 0.86‐4.11) for those with a history of depression and 2.55 (95%
CI
: 1.11‐5.83) for those using an antidepressant at stroke onset, relative to those never depressed. The adjusted odds ratios comparing an inpatient rehabilitation facility to a skilled nursing facility were 1.17 (95%
CI
0.40‐3.42) and 3.28 (95%
CI
1.24‐8.67) for those with a history of depression and those using an antidepressant at stroke onset, respectively, relative to those never depressed.

Conclusions

Antidepressant use before stroke onset may increase odds of home and inpatient rehabilitation facility discharge compared with skilled nursing facility discharge.
Revision of the Metallactus hamifer species-group (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cryptocephalinae)
Authors: SASSI DAVIDE
Published: August 2019

The taxonomic revision of a group of Metallactus species, morphologically and chromatically close to M. hamifer Suffrian, 1866, is presented here. Before this revision, catalogues had been reporting 12 species attributable to this group. In the present work one species has been synonymized and six have been described as new to science. Therefore, the group now includes 17 species. The species described as new are: Metallactus abditus sp. nov., M. chamorroi sp. nov., M. dicaprioi sp. nov.; M. madefactus sp. nov., M. praetorius sp. nov., M. viator sp. nov. The following synonymy is proposed: Metallactus albopictus Suffrian, 1866 (= Griburius persimilis Burmeister, 1877 syn. nov.). One additional species, formerly included in Griburius Haldeman, 1849 is transferred to Metallactus: Metallactus octoguttatus (Burmeister, 1877) comb. nov. Lectotypes were designated where necessary for stability of nomenclature. The new synonymies, the name-bearing type fixations and designations and the nomenclatural acts are critically discussed. An identification key for the species group is also provided.
Using numbers that do not count: how the latent functions of performance indicators explain their success
Authors: Kempeneer Shirley , Van Dooren Wouter
Published: August 2019

Performance indicators have had to endure severe criticism. They are said to lack accuracy, encourage gaming and ultimately fail to improve performance. Yet, despite their well-documented weaknesses, performance indicators abound in governance. This article asks under which conditions performance indicators can improve performance outcomes, despite these proven weaknesses and dysfunctions. Our case study is the stress test of the European banking system, a high-profile performance indicator used for risk regulation. Based on interviews with risk managers in Belgian banks as well as staff at the European Central Bank, the European Banking Authority and the National Bank of Belgium, we find that the process of calculating the stress test improves performance outcomes in itself. It does so by fostering banks’ capacity to self-regulate, tying into Foucault’s notion of governmentality. As such, practitioners and academics should not only pay attention to how performance results can be used, but also examine how the process of calculating the performance indicator might be designed to improve performance outcomes latently.