bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acetaldehyde suppresses HBV-MHC class I complex presentation on hepatocytes via induction of ER stress and Golgi fragmentation
Authors: Ganesan Murali , Mathews Saumi , Makarov Edward , Petrosyan Armen , Kharbanda Kusum K. , Kidambi Srivatsan , Poluektova Larisa Y. , Casey Carol A. , Osna Natalia A.
Published: August 2020

Our current findings show that acetaldehyde accelerates endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by activating the unfolded protein response arms inositol-requiring enzyme 1α-X-box binding protein 1 and activation transcription factor (ATF)6α, but not phospho PKR-like ER kinase-phospho eukaryotic initiation factor 2α-ATF4-C/EBP homologous protein in hepatitis B virus (HBV)-transfected HepG2.2.15 cells. It also potentiates Golgi fragmentation, as evident by punctate distribution of Golgi proteins, GM130, trans-Golgi network 46, and Giantin. While concomitantly increasing HBV DNA and HBV surface antigen titers, acetaldehyde-induced ER stress suppresses the presentation of HBV peptide-major histocompatibility complex I complexes on hepatocyte surfaces, thereby promoting the persistence of HBV infection in the liver.
SARS-CoV-2 may regulate cellular responses through depletion of specific host miRNAs
Authors: Bartoszewski Rafal , Dabrowski Michal , Jakiela Bogdan , Matalon Sadis , Harrod Kevin S. , Sanak Marek , Collawn James F.
Published: August 2020

Cold viruses have generally been considered fairly innocuous until the appearance of the severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in 2019, which caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic. Two previous viruses foreshadowed that a coronavirus could potentially have devastating consequences in 2002 [severe acute respiratory coronavirus (SARS-CoV)] and in 2012 [Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV)]. The question that arises is why these viruses are so different from the relatively harmless cold viruses. On the basis of an analysis of the current literature and using bioinformatic approaches, we examined the potential human miRNA interactions with the SARS-CoV-2’s genome and compared the miRNA target sites in seven coronavirus genomes that include SARS-CoV-2, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, and four nonpathogenic coronaviruses. Here, we discuss the possibility that pathogenic human coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, could modulate host miRNA levels by acting as miRNA sponges to facilitate viral replication and/or to avoid immune responses.
The potential role of the carotid body in COVID-19
Authors: Porzionato Andrea , Emmi Aron , Stocco Elena , Barbon Silvia , Boscolo-Berto Rafael , Macchi Veronica , De Caro Raffaele
Published: August 2020

The carotid body (CB) plays a contributory role in the pathogenesis of various respiratory, cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic diseases through reflex changes in ventilation and sympathetic output. On the basis of available data about peripheral arterial chemoreception and severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a potential involvement in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be hypothesized through different mechanisms. The CB could be a site of SARS-CoV-2 invasion, due to local expression of its receptor [angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) 2] and an alternative route of nervous system invasion, through retrograde transport along the carotid sinus nerve. The CB function could be affected by COVID-19-induced inflammatory/immune reactions and/or ACE1/ACE2 imbalance, both at local or systemic level. Increased peripheral arterial chemosensitivity and reflex sympatho-activation may contribute to the increased morbidity and mortality in COVID-19 patients with respiratory, cardiovascular, renal, or metabolic comorbidities.
Quadratic Filtering for Discrete-Time Systems with Measurement Delay and Packet Dropping
Authors: Li Ling , Tan Lei , Song Xinmin , Yan Xuehua
Published: August 2020

We consider the problem of remote estimation with time delay and multiplicative noise for multichannel systems. First, we apply the reorganized innovation analysis approach to construct the original delay system into a new delay-free system. Secondly, the delay-free system will be reconstructed by the quadratic filtering method to obtain an augmented system. Then, Kalman filtering theory and projection formula are used to solve two Riccati equations and one Lyapunov equation for the augmented system, and the quadratic filter for the measurement delay system on the packet loss network can be obtained. Finally, we use a numerical example to illustrate the effectiveness of the method.
Protection of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in a Mouse Model of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Li Kanglan , Wei Shouchao , Hu Li , Yin Xiaojian , Mai Yingren , Jiang Chunmei , Peng Xiaoping , Cao Xingxing , Huang Zhongkai , Zhou Haihong , Ma Guoda , Liu Zhou , Li Huiliang , Zhao Bin
Published: August 2020

Given the growing evidence of a link between gut microbiota (GM) dysbiosis and multiple sclerosis (MS), fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), aimed at rebuilding GM, has been proposed as a new therapeutic approach to MS treatment. To evaluate the viability of FMT for MS treatment and its impact on MS pathology, we tested FMT in mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a mouse model of MS. We provide evidence that FMT can rectify altered GM to some extent with a therapeutic effect on EAE. We also found that FMT led to reduced activation of microglia and astrocytes and conferred protection on the blood-brain barrier (BBB), myelin, and axons in EAE. Taken together, our data suggest that FMT, as a GM-based therapy, has the potential to be an effective treatment for MS.
Combined Extracts of Epimedii Folium and Ligustri Lucidi Fructus with Budesonide Attenuate Airway Remodeling in the Asthmatic Rats by Regulating Apoptosis and Autophagy
Authors: Ma Zitong , Tang Xiufeng , Gao Yingying , Wang Han , Yu Ping , Liu Renhui
Published: August 2020

This study aimed to investigate the effects of the coadministration of budesonide (Bud) and the extracts of Epimedii Folium and Ligustri Lucidi Fructus (EEL) on regulating apoptosis and autophagy in asthmatic rats. Forty Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided randomly into five groups (8 rats in each group): normal control (control), asthma model (asthma), Bud (1 mg Bud suspension in 50 ml sterile physiological saline for 30 min), EEL (100 mg/kg EEL), and group of coadministration of Bud and EEL (Bud&EEL, 100 mg/kg EEL plus Bud by nebulized inhalation for 30 min). Rats were sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin for 7 weeks and treated with corresponding drug for 4 weeks. We anesthetized all rats with 25% ethyl carbamate (4 ml/kg) and took lung tissues and BALF after final ovalbumin challenge to observe the lung histopathology and morphometry; apoptosis in BALF and lung tissue; protein expressions of Ki‐67, α‐SMA, cleaved Caspase‐3, p‐mTOR, and LC3; and protein and mRNA expressions of Bax, Bcl‐2, Caspase‐3, P53, mTOR, and Beclin‐1. Results showed that Bud&EEL could alleviate airway remodeling, inhibit cell proliferation and autophagy in lung tissue, and promote apoptosis in BALF and lung tissue in ovalbumin‐induced asthma rats through downregulating the protein expressions of α‐SMA and Ki‐67, the protein ratio of LC3‐II/LC3‐I and Bcl‐2/Bax, and the protein and mRNA expressions of Bcl‐2 and Beclin‐1, while upregulating the protein expressions of cleaved Caspase‐3 and p‐mTOR, and the protein and mRNA expressions of Bax, Caspase‐3, P53, and mTOR. Bud&EEL had better effects than single‐use Bud on improving airway remodeling, promoting apoptosis, and regulating the expressions of autophagy‐ and apoptosis‐related proteins. This study suggested that the effects of coadministration of EEL and Bud on regulating apoptosis and autophagy were better than those of single‐use Bud treatment, and that might be the mechanism of attenuating airway remodeling, providing an alternative therapy for asthma.
Study on the Diagnosis of Gastric Cancer by Magnetic Beads Extraction and Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zhu Ning , Xing Xiaoliang , Cao Limei , Zhang Yingjun , Zhang Ti , Li Zhen , Zou Fen , Li Qing
Published: August 2020

Objective. This study constructed a model for the early diagnosis of gastric cancer by comparing the serum peptides profiles of patients with advanced gastric cancer and healthy people. And that model may be the potential to be applied for the efficacy evaluation and recurrence monitoring in gastric cancer. Methods. Serums of 30 healthy people and 30 advanced gastric cancer patients were matched by age and gender were collected. The serum peptide spectrum was obtained by MB‐WCX concentration and MALDI‐TOF MS analysis. Based on the analysis of the efficiency of differential peptides in the diagnosis of gastric cancer, we first established a model for the diagnosis of gastric cancer based on differential peptides and then carried out external verification. The diagnostic reliability of this model was further tested by compared with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA19‐9). Results. In this present study, we found the expression of two peptide peaks with a molecular weight of 2863 Da and 2953 Da were significantly increased in gastric cancer serum, while the expression of two peptide peaks with a molecular weight of 1945 Da and 2082 Da were significantly decreased. Depending on the characteristics of peptide expression, we constructed a diagnostic model, we compared the sensitivity and specificity of the model established by 2953 Da/1945 Da, and found this model is significantly higher than CEA and CA19‐9. Conclusion. There were some differences in serum peptides profiles between patients with advanced gastric cancer and healthy people. The serum peptide diagnostic models based on 2953 Da and 1945 Da have high diagnostic efficiency for advanced gastric cancer. Our result indicated that this model was well worth further validation for clinical diagnosis.
Significance of EGFR/HER2 Expression and PIK3CA Mutations in Giant Cell Tumour of Bone Development
Authors: Amri Raja , Charfi Slim , Jemaà Mohamed , Miled Nabil , Slimi Fathia , Rebai Mohamed Ali , Abdelwahed Mayssa , Keskes Hassib , Aifa Sami
Published: August 2020

Giant Cell Tumour of Bone (GCTB) is a rare bone tumour. Locally aggressive and recurrent, it might evolve into pulmonary metastases. Our present work is aimed at investigating the involvement of the epidermal growth factor receptor (ErbB) family and its downstream effectors in the development and recurrence of GCTB. For this purpose, we used a cohort of 32 GCTB patients and we evaluated the clinicohistological features and the expression of RANKL, EGFR, and HER2. The mutation status of KRAS, PI3KCA, and PTEN gene as potential oncogene involved in GCTB was also evaluated. We found a significant correlation between advanced histological stages, overexpression of EGFR/HER2, and tumour recurrence. Moreover, two mutations were found in the PIK3CA gene: a missense mutation, 1634A>C, detected for the first time in GCTB patients, without influencing the stability of the protein, and a frameshift mutation, c.1658_1659delGTinsC, causing the loss of the protein kinase domain. Altogether, these results suggest that overexpression of HER2/EGFR, Campanacci, and histological stages could be used as a novel prognostic marker for GCTB recurrence.
First Use of GORE TAG Thoracic Endograft with Active Control System in Traumatic Aortic Rupture
Authors: Eforakopoulos Fotios , Akrida Ioanna , Zampakis Petros , Katsanos Konstantinos , Papadopoulos Panagiotis , Koletsis Efstratios
Published: August 2020

Patients after a high-velocity motor vehicle collision with rapid deceleration are at a significant risk of blunt aortic injury, a life-threatening condition that usually occurs in the aortic isthmus. Aortic transection is the second leading cause of death behind head injury for individuals aged 4 to 34. During the last two decades, there has been a shift from open towards the endovascular repair. Significant progress has been made recently in terms of the design of both the stent graft and the delivery system. We herein present the case of a female patient under dual antiplatelet therapy for coronary artery disease, with type IV blunt aortic injury (rupture) that was successfully repaired with Conformable Thoracic Endograft with Active Control System. This new device provides an intermediate deployment step at 50% and optional angulation control of the proximal part of the stent graft. These improvements are beneficial providing accurate device placement and maximum seal length in anatomies where the distal, as well as a proximal landing zone, is critical.
Pterostilbene Attenuates Cocultured BV-2 Microglial Inflammation-Mediated SH-SY5Y Neuronal Oxidative Injury via SIRT-1 Signalling
Authors: Zhu Qiang , Tang Tao , Liu Haixiao , Sun Yinxue , Wang Xiaogang , Liu Qiang , Yang Long , Lei Zhijie , Huang Zhao , Chen Zhao , Lei Qiang , Song Mingyang , Wang Bodong
Published: August 2020

Microglial inflammation plays an important part in the progression of multiple neurological diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, depression, and traumatic encephalopathy. Here, we aimed to explore the role of pterostilbene (PTE) in the microglial inflammatory response and subsequent damage of cocultured neural cells and partially explain the underlying mechanisms. In the coculture system of lipopolysaccharide-activated BV-2 microglia and SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma, PTE (only given to BV-2) exhibited protection on SH-SY5Y cells, evidenced by improved SH-SY5Y morphology and viability and LDH release. It also attenuated SH-SY5Y apoptosis and oxidative stress, evidenced by TUNEL and DCFH-DA staining, as well as MDA, SOD, and GSH levels. Moreover, PTE upregulated SIRT-1 expression and suppressed acetylation of NF-κB p65 subunit in BV-2 microglia, thus decreasing the inflammatory factors, including TNF-α and IL-6. Furthermore, the effects above were reversed by SIRT-1 inhibitor EX527. These results suggest that PTE reduces the microglia-mediated inflammatory response and alleviates subsequent neuronal apoptosis and oxidative injury via increasing SIRT-1 expression and inhibiting the NF-κB signalling pathway.
Investigation of Heat Stepping Process for Epoxy‐Amine Binders
Authors: Stukhlyak Petro , Mykytyshyn Andrii , Chykhira Ihor
Published: August 2020

It is determined that in order to create a protective coating with high physical, mechanical, and thermophysical characteristics, it is necessary to carry out the appropriate heat stepping during its formation. The relevance of such processing mode use providing the increase of physical‐mechanical and operational characteristics of epoxy material coatings due to the structure‐forming processes in the material is substantiated.
The Effects of Dietary Glycine on the Acetic Acid-Induced Mouse Model of Colitis
Authors: Wu Xin , Zheng Yongmin , Ma Jie , Yin Jie , Chen Shuai
Published: August 2020

Inflammatory bowel disease, a gut disease that is prevalent worldwide, is characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation, such as colitis, and disorder of the gut microbiome. Glycine (Gly) is the simplest amino acid and functions as an anti-inflammatory immune-nutrient and intestinal microbiota regulator. This study aimed at investigating the effect of Gly on colitis induced in mice by intrarectal administration of 5% acetic acid (AA). Bodyweight and survival rates were monitored, and colonic length and weight, serum amino acid concentrations, intestinal inflammation-related gene expression, and colonic microbiota abundances were analyzed. The results showed that Gly dietary supplementation had no effect on the survival rate or the ratio of colonic length to weight. However, Gly supplementation reversed the AA-induced increase in serum concentrations of amino acids such as glutamate, leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Furthermore, Gly inhibited colonic gene expression of interleukin- (IL-) 1β and promoted IL-10 expression in colitis mice. Gly supplementation also reversed the AA-induced reduction in the abundance of bacteria such as Clostridia, Ruminococcaceae, and Clostridiales. This change in the intestinal microbiota was possibly attributable to the changes in colonic IL-10 expression and serum concentrations of valine and leucine. In sum, Gly supplementation regulated the serum concentrations of amino acids, the levels of colonic immune-associated gene expression, and the intestinal microbiota in a mouse model of colitis. These findings enhance our understanding of the role of Gly in regulating metabolism, intestinal immunity, and the gut microbiota in animals afflicted with colitis.
Fluidization Analysis of Thickening in the Deep Cone for Cemented Paste Backfill
Authors: Cheng Haiyong , Liu Jin , Wu Shunchuan , Zhang Xiaoqiang
Published: August 2020

Cemented paste backfill (CPB) can effectively eliminate the risk of dam break in goaf and tailings pond which used tailings waste. Deep cone thickener (DCT) is an efficient machine for the system of paste preparation, and the concentration of slurry at the bottom is high and distributed unevenly, which will cause too much partial resistance and failure of thickener. Focusing on the above problems, fluidization design was conducted by using the fluidization theory. The delivery law of flocs was analyzed, and the isobaric surface was obtained. The equation of pressure and critical velocity of the ideal fluidized bed was acquired by analyzing the relationship between pressure and critical velocity. Based on the characteristics of tailings and distribution of the bonding zone, the arrangement, number, and working mode of spray nozzles were reformed. It is verified that the failure time of thickener decreased from 14 hours to 1 hour and the range of concentration increased from 74%∼78% to 78%∼80%, which improved the stability and reliability of DCT. The depth thickening mechanism is obtained, and the thickening method has been improved which provides a theoretical basis for the effective preparation of paste.
Prealbumin-to-Globulin Ratio Can Predict the Chemotherapy Outcomes and Prognosis of Patients with Gastric Cancer Receiving First-Line Chemotherapy
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Zhang Liqun , Wang Jingyan , Wang Yuanhe , Dong Qian , Piao Haiyan , Wang Qiwei , Zhang Jingdong
Published: August 2020

Gastric cancer (GC) is the fifth most common cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Inflammation and the nutritional status of patients with GC are important factors affecting the therapeutic effect and prognosis. Inflammatory and nutrition-related markers have been shown to be prognostic factors for patients with GC. However, few studies have investigated the relationship of the prealbumin-to-globulin ratio (PGR) with the prognosis of GC patients. The objective of the present study was to examine whether pretreatment PGR is related to the prognosis and chemotherapy outcomes of in-patients with advanced GC undergoing first-line chemotherapy. We retrospectively reviewed the data of 281 patients with unresectable GC from January 2013 to January 2018. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis determined the cut-off values for the PGR. The relationship between the PGR and chemotherapy effectiveness was evaluated using the chi-square test. Kaplan-Meier’s method was used to plot progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) curves, using multivariable Cox regression analysis to identify promising predictors of mortality. The cut-off value for the PGR was 7.21. The high-PGR (≥7.21) group had a higher disease control rate than that of the low-PGR group (93.66% vs. 78.42%, p<0.001). Kaplan-Meier’s analysis showed significantly higher median PFS (189 vs. 125 days, p<0.001) and OS (350 vs. 288 days, p<0.001) in the high-PGR group. The multivariate analyses revealed that a high PGR is an independent protective factor in patients with advanced GC, both in terms of PFS (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.672; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.527–0.857; p<0.001) and OS (HR: 0.675; 95% CI: 0.530–0.861; p=0.002). In conclusion, the prechemotherapy PGR can accurately predict the chemotherapy outcome, PFS, and OS of patients with advanced GC. Therefore, medical practitioners can utilize the PGR as a novel dependable prognostic tool to weigh the prognosis of patients with GC.
Influence of Implant Thread Morphology on Primary Stability: A Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Menini Maria , Bagnasco Francesco , Calimodio Ivan , Di Tullio Nicolò , Delucchi Francesca , Baldi Domenico , Pera Francesco
Published: August 2020

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the primary stability of two implants with the same macro‐ and micromorphology but different thread design and analyze their clinical outcomes over a one‐year period. Materials and Methods. 14 patients needing a partial rehabilitation with a delayed loading approach (DEL group: 9 patients) or a full‐arch rehabilitation treated with immediately loaded fixed prostheses supported by 4 implants following the Columbus Bridge Protocol (CBP) (IL group: 5 patients) were included. In each patient, at least one SY (implant with standard threads) and one SL implant (implant with an augmented depth of the threads) were randomly inserted. Primary outcome measures were the number of threads exposed at a torque of 30 Ncm and 50 Ncm and final insertion torque. Secondary outcome measures were implant and prosthetic failure, peri‐implant bone resorption, and periodontal parameters: bleeding on probing (BoP), plaque index (PI), and probing depth (PD) evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months of healing. Results. Nineteen SY and 19 SL implants were inserted in 14 patients. Twenty implants (10 SL and 10 SY) were inserted in the IL group, while 18 (9 SL and 9 SY) were inserted in the DEL group and followed‐up for 12 months. No patients dropped out. No implants and prostheses failed. No biological complications were identified. No significant differences were found between SY and SL implants comparing the number of exposed threads when inserting the implant with a torque insertion of 30 N (T student test p = .142 and U test p = .164). At 50 N, no threads were visible in either groups. Final torque insertion values were higher for SL (mean: 48.42 Ncm) compared to SY implants (mean: 43.42 Ncm) without a statistically significant difference. All the implants showed good clinical outcomes at the 1‐year‐in‐function visit. Conclusions. After 12 months of function, both implant types provided good clinical outcomes without statistically significant differences between the two groups. A difference in insertion torque (even if not statistically significant) was found with higher insertion torque values for SL implants with a larger thread depth.
Theoretical Calculation and Application Test of Lift Force for Ideal Electric Asymmetric Capacitor
Authors: Huang Jian-Guo , Cheng Xiang-Yu
Published: August 2020

The asymmetric capacitor’s lift force formula can be obtained on the basis of literature review, which can almost cover all practical forms of asymmetric capacity forms. But there are still some problems we should solve. The first and foremost one is whether the formulas are correct and can they be verified in engineering practices? On the contrary, the parameter q in the formulas is normally unknown in the beginning of calculations, how can we get or reckon up it so as to use the formulas smoothly? In this paper, we set out to solve these questions.
Association of C1q/TNF-Related Protein-9 (CTRP9) Level with Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Li Zexuan , Du Yunhui , Jia Lixin , Fan Jingyao , Guo Ruifeng , Ma Xinliang , Wang Xiao , Nie Shaoping , Wei Yongxiang
Published: August 2020

Background. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is closely related to the incidence and progression of coronary artery disease (CAD), and the mechanisms linking OSA and CAD are multifactorial. C1q/TNF-related protein-9 (CTRP9) is a novel adipokine that protects the heart against ischemic injury and ameliorates cardiac remodeling. We aimed to ascertain the clinical relevance of CTRP9 with OSA prevalence in patients with CAD. Methods. From August 2016 to March 2019, consecutive eligible patients with CAD (n=154; angina pectoris, n=88; acute myocardial infarction [AMI], n=66) underwent cardiorespiratory polygraphy. OSA was defined as an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ≥15 events·h−1. Plasma CTRP9 concentrations were measured by ELISA method. Results. Moderate/severe OSA was present in 89 patients (57.8%). CTRP9 levels were significantly decreased in the moderate/severe OSA group than in the no/mild OSA group (4.7 [4.1-5.2] ng/mL vs. 4.9 [4.4-6.0] ng/mL, P=0.003). The difference between groups was only observed in patients with AMI (3.0 [2.3-4.9] vs. 4.5 [3.2-7.9], P=0.009). Correlation analysis showed that CTRP9 levels were negatively correlated with AHI (r=−0.238, P=0.003) and oxygen desaturation index (r=−0.234, P=0.004) and positively correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction (r=0.251, P=0.004) in all subjects. Multivariate analysis showed that male gender (OR 3.099, 95% CI 1.029-9.330, P=0.044), BMI (OR 1.148, 95% CI 1.040-1.268, P=0.006), and CTRP9 levels (OR 0.726, 95% CI 0.592-0.890, P=0.002) were independently associated with the prevalence of moderate/severe OSA. Conclusions. Plasma CTRP9 levels were independently related to the prevalence of moderate/severe OSA in patients with CAD, suggesting that CTRP9 might play a role in the pathogenesis of CAD exacerbated by OSA.
Eugenol Improves Insulin Secretion and Content of Pancreatic Islets from Male Mouse
Authors: Oroojan Ali Akbar
Published: August 2020

Glucose homeostasis is required for control of insulin secretion. Phenolic compounds improved glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). Eugenol is a phenolic compound that may increase GSIS. So, it was decided to investigate the effect of eugenol on the insulin secretion and content of pancreatic islets from the male mice. In this experimental study, 3-month-old NMRI mice (20–25 g) were prepared. The pancreatic islets of Langerhans were isolated using the collagenase digestion method and divided into 12 groups: glucose 2.8, 5.6, and 16.7 mM, glucose 2.8 mM + eugenol 50, 100, and 200 µM, glucose 5.6 mM + eugenol 50, 100, and 200 µM, and glucose 16.7 mM + eugenol 50, 100, and 200 µM. The islet’s insulin secretion and content were measured after 1 hour and 24 hours incubation at 37°C, respectively, by the ELISA assays method and related commercial kit. Present results showed that all doses of eugenol increased islet’s insulin secretion and content in the medium containing glucose concentrations 2.8, 5.6, and 16.7 mM (P < 0.05). In conclusion, eugenol as a phenolic compound increased insulin secretion and content of pancreatic islets. The moderate dose of this compound enhanced insulin secretion during hypo- and hyperglycemic conditions, as well as a high dose of eugenol, increased insulin content. Finally, present research suggested that the administration of eugenol 100 µM was suitable for the early stage of T2DM as well as eugenol 200 µM for the advanced stage of this disease.
The Liquid Maldistribution Analysis of the Trickle Bed Reactor with the CFD Method
Authors: Liu Jinjin , Kai Liu , Zhao Tong , Bai Chuanxin
Published: August 2020

The liquid phase maldistribution factor has been investigated in trickle bed reactor, and the results are compared with the previous measurement data from literature by using the Electrical Resistance Tomography. The simulation results are in agreement with the experimental results to some degree. The flow rates and particle sizes have been simulated with the method of multiphase flow. There are two different particles with average diameters of 3.4 mm and 5.3 mm. The flow rate has been studied ranging from 100 ml/min to 1100 ml/min. It has been found that the changes of the particles and liquid flow rates have a significant impact on the distribution of the liquid volume fraction. The internal liquid holdup is more serious, and the wall-flow phenomenon is more obvious in a bigger flow rate. The prediction of the liquid volume fraction distribution is a key research technique. Regression predictions have also been researched on the section near outlet, which can predict the internal flow state of the trickle bed under the condition of high temperature and high pressure. The average liquid volume fraction is linear with flow rates. The maldistribution factor is the index correlation with the flow rates. The results and main conclusions can be used to predict the distributions and get the properties in a trickle bed reactor.
Laboratory Evaluation of Asphalt Binder Modified with Crumb Rubber and Basalt Fiber
Authors: Liu Li , Huang You , Liu Zhaohui
Published: August 2020

Asphalt pavement subjected to heavy traffic load and harsh environmental conditions can easily build up damage and shorten the service life. In this paper, different dosages of basalt fiber (BF) were introduced into crumb rubber (CR) modified asphalt binder, and a series of laboratory tests were carried out to evaluate the properties and performances. A dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) was employed to evaluate viscosity and rheological properties. Bending beam rheometer (BBR) test and direct tensile test (DTT) were conducted to test the low temperature property. Cone penetration was designed to test shear strength. Results show that the optimum content of BF is 0.3% by the weight of asphalt binder based on the overall performance evaluation. Viscosity, complex modulus, fatigue property, rutting resistance, and shear strength are improved by introducing BF into asphalt binder. Stiffness and elasticity are also increased. BBR indicates that ductility at low temperature is reduced a little by the presence of BF, but DTT shows that both tensile strength and elongation are improved by BF. Considering that DTT is more performance related, DTT is preferred over BBR to evaluate cracking potentials at low temperatures of asphalt binder modified with CR and BF. Finally, it is revealed through microscale scanning that three mechanisms, absorption of asphalt binder, 3‐dimensional fiber network, and bridging effects, contribute to the performance improvement of asphalt binder modified with CR and BF.
Risk Factors Associated with Prevalence ofCandida albicans,Gardnerella vaginalis, andTrichomonas vaginalisamong Women at the District Hospital of Dschang, West Region, Cameroon
Authors: Payne Vincent Khan , Florence Cécile Tsonang Tassongwa , Cedric Yamssi , Christelle Nadia Noumedem Anangmo , José Ouaba
Published: August 2020

Background. Vaginal or genitourinary infections are a major cause of morbidity, sterility, and increase in the vulnerability to cancers and HIV/AIDS infection. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of vaginal infections ofC. albicans,G. vaginalis, andT. vaginalisamong women in the locality of Dschang, West Region of Cameroon.Method. A prospective study was carried out in the District Hospital of Dschang. After obtaining informed consent, one thousand and one (1001) samples of vaginal swabs were collected. Biological diagnosis was carried out on fresh samples, Gram stained, and then cultivated in Sabouraud agar in a Petri dish, in order to isolate and identify the various infectious agents.Results. Five hundred and twenty-five (525) women were diagnosed positive, hosting at least one of these microorganisms, making an overall prevalence of 52.44%. Two hundred and fifty-six (256) women (25.57%) were infected withC. albicans, and 171 (17.08%) withG. vaginalis.Ninety-five (9.49%) were infected with bothC. albicansandG. vaginalis, 2 (0.20%) withC. albicansandT. vaginalis, and 1 (0.1%) withG. vaginalisandT. vaginalis.Conclusion. Drastic measures should be taken in order to improve life styles to regress the frequency of these infections. Results obtained in this study, will help to educate and shed more light on the prevalence of vaginal infections in the West Region of Cameroon.
An Object-Oriented Systems Engineering Point of View to Develop Controllers of Quadrotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Van Hien Ngo , Truong Van-Thuan , Bui Ngoc-Tam
Published: August 2020

The aerospace industry needs to be provided with system solutions to technologically challenging and mission-critical problems. Based on the industrial control point of view, development engineers must take costs and existing standards into account in order to effectively design, implement, and deploy control systems with reasonable costs. The customization and reusability are important factors associated with the production of new applications in order to reduce their costs, resources, and development time. In this work, the Model-Driven Architecture (MDA)/Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approach combined with the real-time Unified Modeling Language (UML)/Systems Modeling Language (SysML), Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF) algorithm, and hybrid automata is specialized to obtain a hybrid control model in order to conveniently deploy controllers of Quadrotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (Q-UAVs). This hybrid control model also provides a real-time capsule pattern, which allows the designed elements to be customizable and reusable in new applications of various multirotor UAVs of the Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) type. The Q-UAV dynamics and control architecture are combined with the MDA/MBSE specialization as follows: the Computation Independent Model (CIM) is defined by specifying the use-case model together with the UKF algorithm and hybrid automata to intensively gather the control requirements. The Platform Independent Model (PIM) is then designed by specializing the real-time UML/SysML’s features to obtain the main control capsules, ports, and protocols, together with their dynamic evolution. The detailed PIM is subsequently transformed into the PSM by open-source platforms to rapidly implement and deploy the Q-UAV controller. The paper ends with trial flights and deployment results that show good feasibility to be used for a trajectory-tracking controller of a low-cost Q-UAV. In this case study, the Q-UAV controller is implemented with the simulation model in the OpenModelica tool. The obtained simulation results then allow the main control elements and their properties to be defined, as well as building the implementation libraries in the Arduino environment based on C++ language to quickly perform the realization model in the ATMEGA32-U2 and STM32 Cortex-M4 microcontrollers.
Residential Mobility and Geospatial Disparities in Colon Cancer Survival
Authors: Wiese Daniel , Stroup Antoinette M. , Maiti Aniruddha , Harris Gerald , Lynch Shannon M. , Vucetic Slobodan , Henry Kevin A.
Published: August 2020

Background:

Identifying geospatial cancer survival disparities is critical to focus interventions and prioritize efforts with limited resources. Incorporating residential mobility into spatial models may result in different geographic patterns of survival compared with the standard approach using a single location based on the patient's residence at the time of diagnosis.

Methods:

Data on 3,949 regional-stage colon cancer cases diagnosed from 2006 to 2011 and followed until December 31, 2016, were obtained from the New Jersey State Cancer Registry. Geographic disparity based on the spatial variance and effect sizes from a Bayesian spatial model using residence at diagnosis was compared with a time-varying spatial model using residential histories [adjusted for sex, gender, substage, race/ethnicity, and census tract (CT) poverty]. Geographic estimates of risk of colon cancer death were mapped.

Results:

Most patients (65%) remained at the same residence, 22% changed CT, and 12% moved out of state. The time-varying model produced a wider range of adjusted risk of colon cancer death (0.85–1.20 vs. 0.94–1.11) and resulted in greater geographic disparity statewide after adjustment (25.5% vs. 14.2%) compared with the model with only the residence at diagnosis.

Conclusions:

Including residential mobility may allow for more precise estimates of spatial risk of death. Results based on the traditional approach using only residence at diagnosis were not substantially different for regional stage colon cancer in New Jersey.

Impact:

Including residential histories opens up new avenues of inquiry to better understand the complex relationships between people and places, and the effect of residential mobility on cancer outcomes.

See related commentary by Williams, p. 2107
Characteristics of Breast Ducts in Normal-Risk and High-risk Women and Their Relationship to Ductal Cytologic Atypia
Authors: Danforth David N. , Filie Armando C. , Warner Andrew C. , Wright George W. , Sun Zhonghe , Ried Thomas , McGowan Christine T. , Prindiville Sheila A.
Published: August 2020

Breast ductal cytologic atypia is an important risk factor for sporadic breast cancer. Characterization of the associated normal breast tissue is needed to develop additional methods of risk assessment and new targets for breast cancer prevention. We conducted a prospective clinical trial evaluating women at normal-risk or at high-risk for sporadic breast cancer. Breast ductal cells were collected and studied cytologically and by gene expression profiling, and breast ductal architectural changes were studied by breast ductal endoscopy (BDE) and breast MRI. One hundred and forty subjects were studied, 70 at high risk (RR, 2.0–4.6) and 70 at normal risk. Cytologic atypia was present in 22.9% of high-risk and 25.7% of normal-risk subjects. Ductal endoscopy was performed in 89 subjects and revealed benign intraductal abnormalities, primarily intraductal fibrous webbing suggesting chronic inflammation, in 40.4% of high-risk and 5.4% of normal-risk subjects, respectively (P2 = 0.0002). Two high-risk subjects with atypia and no normal-risk subjects with atypia developed invasive breast cancer. Gene expression profiling of ductal cells showed comparable gene expression profiles without enriched expression of previously defined oncogenic signatures in subjects with cellular atypia compared with those without atypia, and in high-risk subjects compared with normal-risk subjects (FDR > 0.5). Cytologic ductal atypia in normal-risk subjects does not appear to be of clinical significance. Atypia in women at high risk may be associated with benign and malignant breast ductal abnormalities; these characteristics of high-risk ductal cells may not be reflected in gene expression profiles.
Development of Predictive Risk Models of Postpartum Stress Urinary Incontinence for Primiparous and Multiparous Women
Authors: Chen Ling , Luo Dan , Chen Xiaomin , Jin Mei , Yu Xiajuan , Cai Wenzhi
Published: August 2020

Objectives: To develop risk predictive models of postpartum stress urinary incontinence (SUI) for both primiparous and multiparous women. Materials and Methods: From July 2016 to July 2017, 815 singleton pregnant women without incontinence before pregnancy who were 18 years or older and admitted to 2 hospitals in Shenzhen, China, were enrolled. Pregnancy-related data were collected at enrollment. Delivery information was obtained from electronic medical records. Telephone follow-up was conducted to investigate SUI at 6 weeks postpartum. Multivariable logistic regression analyses using stepwise selection were used to establish predictive models for postpartum SUI for all women, and separately for primiparous and multiparous. Internal validation of the models was performed with discrimination and calibration using a bootstrapping (1,000 resampling) method. Results: The analysis included 727 participants. The prevalence of postpartum SUI was 15.96% (116/727), 12.5% (49/393) for primiparous women and 20.1% (67/334) for multiparous women, with a significant difference between them (p = 0.008). For primiparous women, the predictive postpartum SUI model included age, abortion/miscarriage history, SUI during pregnancy, and mode of delivery. For multiparous women, pre-pregnancy BMI, abortion/miscarriage history, SUI during pregnancy, and mode of delivery were included in the model. There was satisfactory calibration between the models’ predicted probability of postpartum SUI and the observed probability for both primiparous and multiparous women (Hosmer-Lemeshow test, p = 0.390 for primiparous and 0.364 for multiparous women). The optimism-corrected C-statistic of the models by bootstrapping stepwise was 0.763 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.693–0.833) for primiparous women and 0.783 (95% CI: 0.726–0.841) for multiparous women. Conclusion: We developed predictive models of postpartum SUI for both primiparous and multiparous women. This approach may provide a useful tool for high-risk prediction of postpartum SUI before and after delivery.
Juvenile Psammomatoid Ossifying Fibroma of the Orbital Roof: A Rare Cause of Proptosis among Children
Authors: Rahmani Mohammad , Hendi Kasra , Dalfardi Saeed , Larijani Amirhossein , Alimohamadi Maysam
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Juvenile psammomatoid ossifying fibroma (JPOF) is a rare bone tumor characterized by a predilection for the sinonasal region and a tendency to affect younger patients, with a potential for aggressive growth and high recurrence (30–56%). JPOF warrants complete surgical resection to avoid recurrence. Case Presentation: In this article, we report a young boy who presented with unilateral prop­tosis with an expansile bony tumor with ground glass appearance involving the left frontal bone and orbital roof on his images. Complete surgical resection was done, and histopathological examination revealed JPOF with abundant psammomatoid bodies. Discussion: This patient is a rare case of neurocranial JOPF and adds new features to the typical features already described for JPOF.
Oxidative and Nitrosative Stress in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Frohwitter Gesche , Zimmermann Ornella Lisa , Kreutzer Kilian , Doll Christian , Rendenbach Carsten M. , Dommisch Henrik , Wolff Klaus-Dietrich , Kesting Marco R. , Heiland Max , Koerdt Steffen
Published: August 2020

Introduction: The incidence of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) shows a constant increase, while the long-term outcome remains poor over the last decades. Radical oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) – initially released by carcinogens, such as alcohol and tobacco, and later maintained by the tumor microenvironment – appear to be strongly associated to chronic inflammation, tumor induction, progression, and metastatic spread. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of oxidative and nitrosative stress in primary OSCC compared to healthy tissue specimens and to identify their impact on tumor carcinogenesis. Materials and Methods: In this basic research study, tissue samples of 30 patients with primary OSCC were evaluated for the expression of pAKT, pERK, 3-NT, NOS1, NOS3, MAPK1, and IP-8 by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR and compared to those of a healthy control group (n = 30). Results: The results showed a significantly increased expression of pAKT (p < 0.001), pERK (p = 0.01), 3-NT (p = 0.039), NOS1 (p = 0.025), NOS3 (p = 0.046), and MAPK1 (p = 0.032) in OSCC tissue samples compared to healthy controls. Conclusion: The results of this study prove the tested stable degradation products to be suitable for the detection of RONS in OSCC. Moreover, the significantly increased expression underlines the role of RONS in carcinogenesis of OSCC, suggests specific mechanisms of detection, and anticipates supplementary research.
Randomised Controlled Trial Evaluating Active versus Passive Waiting for Speech-Language Pathology
Authors: McGill Nicole , McLeod Sharynne , Ivory Nicola , Davis Emily , Rohr Katrina
Published: August 2020

Introduction: High demand for speech-language pathology means children sometimes wait over 12 months for services, missing out on timely support. Waiting can be a time of stress, concern, and powerlessness for caregivers. Provision of information via a website may support families and encourage active waiting. Objective: The aim of this study was to compare children’s speech, intelligibility, language, and literacy outcomes, and caregivers’ satisfaction and empowerment in active versus passive waiting conditions. Methods: Ninety-seven preschool-aged children referred to a community health speech-language pathology service in Australia were screened for eligibility. Eligible children (n =42) with speech/language difficulties were randomly allocated to: (a) active waiting (provision of a purpose-built website; n = 20), or (b) passive waiting (control group; n = 22). Pre- and post-assessments (after 6 months on a waiting list) were completed with children and caregivers by a speech-language pathologist blinded to group allocations. Results: Intention to treat (n =36) and per-protocol analyses (n =30) were conducted to measure group differences in child and caregiver outcomes at post-assessment using one-way ANCOVA, controlling for baseline scores. There were no statistically significant differences between groups for children’s speech, intelligibility, language, and literacy, or caregivers’ empowerment and satisfaction. Children in both groups made minimal gains over 6 months. Conclusions: Provision of an active waiting website did not lead to statistically significant change in child or caregiver outcomes, and children in both groups made little progress over a 6-month period. Early speech-language pathology intervention delivered with appropriate dosage is needed to optimise children’s outcomes. Until timely and effective speech-language pathology intervention can be provided for all who need it, provision of early assessments may be beneficial. There remains a need for effective ways to support children and families on waiting lists.
Ceramic-on-Ceramic Total Hip Arthroplasty with Large Diameter Heads: A Systematic Review
Authors: Castagnini Francesco , Cosentino Monica , Bracci Giovanni , Masetti Claudio , Faldini Cesare , Traina Francesco
Published: August 2020

Ceramic-on-ceramic (COC) total hip arthroplasties (THAs) with large heads (>36 mm) were introduced to reduce dislocation rates and restore the hip anatomy as closely as possible to the native one. To date, the literature is scarce and fragmented; a review is desirable to point out the outcomes and the possible specific complications (noise, groin pain, and taperosis). A systematic review about large-diameter COC THAs was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed and Cochrane databases were searched using the terms “large”, “big”, “head”, “hip”, and “ceramic.” The methodological quality of the papers was assessed using the MINORS (Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies) score. Seven papers (level of evidence: 5 case series and 2 case-control studies) met the inclusion criteria. Clinical outcomes were excellent in >90% of the patients. Groin pain was reported in only 1 article (7%). Radiological outcomes were positive. Minimal revision rates (<2%) were reported at short- to mid-term follow-ups. Dislocation rates were usually <1%. No bearing surfaces failed. No case of trunnionitis was reported. Noise occurred in up to 30% of the patients, mostly squeaking. The noise did not influence clinical outcomes or patients’ satisfaction. Noise was inconstantly associated with component positioning, younger age, high articular excursions, and larger sizes. Large-diameter heads in COC THAs (≥40 mm) showed promising clinical and radiological outcomes with minimal revision rates. Noise is a cause of concern and should be carefully evaluated at longer follow-ups and in larger, prospective, and specifically designed case series.