bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of PLASMIC score: an academic medical center case series (2012‐present)
Authors: Moosavi Harrison , Ma Yamin , Miller Maureen J. , Duncan Alexander
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

The PLASMIC score is a rapid and inexpensive tool for predicting severe ADAMTS13 deficiency (activity <10%) in patients with suspected thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) by analyzing seven parameters (platelet count; combined hemolysis variable; absence of active neoplasia; absence of an organ or stem‐cell transplant; mean corpuscular value; international normalized ratio; and serum creatinine). The purpose of this study was to validate the PLASMIC score at a large multi‐institutional academic medical center.

METHODS

An internal database of consultations to the transfusion medicine service, which oversees therapeutic apheresis at our institution, was reviewed to identify patients who were evaluated for and/or received plasma exchange for suspected TTP. These consultations covered the time period of January 2012 to February 2019. PLASMIC scoring criteria and ADAMTS13 assay results were abstracted from the electronic medical record, the PLASMIC score was calculated, and cases stratified into risk categories (low, intermediate, high risk) based on the score value.

RESULTS

Of 58 patients identified, 46 met inclusion criteria, and 27 demonstrated ADAMTS13 activity <10%. Correlation of severe ADAMTS13 deficiency with risk‐stratified groups resulted in 78% sensitivity, 63% specificity, 75% positive predictive value (PPV), and 67% negative predictive value (NPV).

DISCUSSION

These findings paralleled those from validation studies performed at other institutions. They provided insufficient evidence to recommend routine use of the PLASMIC score to rule out TTP among patients at our hospitals. Nonetheless, these results reinforce the importance of early ADAMTS13 testing as a diagnostic triage tool for patients with suspected TTP.
Outcomes of cats treated with maxillectomy: 60 cases. A Veterinary Society of Surgical Oncology retrospective study
Authors: Liptak Julius M. , Thatcher Graham P. , Mestrinho Lisa A. , Séguin Bernard , Vernier Timothy , Martano Marina , Husbands Brian D. , Veytsman Stan , van Nimwegen Sebastiaan A. , De Mello Souza Carlos H. , Mullins Ronan A. , Barry Sabrina L. , Selmic Laura E.
Published: June 2020

Maxillectomy is poorly described for the management of oral tumours in cats and is occasionally not recommended because of the high complication rate and sub‐optimal outcome reported in cats treated with mandibulectomy. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the complications and oncologic outcome in cats treated with maxillectomy. Sixty cats were included in the study. Maxillectomy procedures included unilateral rostral (20.0%), bilateral rostral (23.3%), segmental (10.0%), caudal (20.0%) and total unilateral maxillectomy (26.7%). Intra‐operative and post‐operative complications were reported in 10 (16.7%) and 34 (56.7%) cats, respectively. The most common post‐operative complications were hyporexia (20.0%) and incisional dehiscence (20.0%). The median duration of hyporexia was 7 days. Benign tumours were diagnosed in 19 cats (31.7%) and malignant tumours in 41 cats (68.3%). Local recurrence and metastatic rates were 18.3% and 4.9%, respectively; the median progression‐free interval (PFI) was not reached. The disease‐related median survival time was not reached overall or for either benign or malignant tumours. The 1‐ and 2‐year survival rates were, respectively, 100% and 79% for cats with benign tumours, 89% and 89% for cats with malignant tumours, 94% and 94% for cats with fibrosarcomas, 83% and 83% for cats with squamous cell carcinomas, and 80% and 80% for cats with osteosarcomas. Poor prognostic factors included mitotic index for PFI, adjuvant chemotherapy for both PFI and survival time, and local recurrence for survival time. Maxillectomy is a viable treatment option for cats resulting in good local tumour control and long survival times.
Efficacy of specific antivenom and fresh frozen plasma in reversing Daboia palaestinae venom‐induced hemostatic derangement
Authors: Nivy Ran , Aroch Itamar , Bruchim Yaron
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the in vitro efficacy of specific Daboia (Vipera) palaestinae (Dp) antivenom or fresh frozen plasma (FFP) against Dp venom‐induced hemostatic changes

Design

In vitro study.

Setting

Laboratory of a university referral hospital.

Animals

Five healthy dogs.

Interventions

Rotational thromboelastometry (including recombinant tissue factor or kaolin activators [EXTEM and INTEM, respectively]) and conventional hemostatic tests were evaluated in citrated whole blood samples that underwent 4 treatments: (1) no additives (control); (2) 15 μg of Dp venom; (3) 15 μg of Dp venom and 10 μL of specific Dp antivenom; (4) 15 μg of Dp venom and 0.3 mL of FFP. A linear mixed‐effects regression model was used to compare results between each treatment and the control.

Measurements and main results

Dp‐venom engendered statistically significant (P < 0.05) EXTEM changes in 8/17 variables, all indicative of hypercoagulability, which were negated by antivenom but not with FFP. Similarly, Dp‐venom induced hypercoagulable, hyperfibrinolytic changes in 12 of 17 INTEM variables, of which only 5 of 12 were negated by antivenom but not with FFP. Fibrinogen concentration was decreased, and the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) was shortened (P < 0.05 for both) in all treatments compared to the control.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the ephemeral procoagulant phase of Dp envenomation for the first time. Many venom‐induced thromboelastometric changes were reversed by specific antivenom but not with FFP. Prospective clinical studies are warranted to investigate whether the present findings translate to clinical efficacy.
Coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) and decrease in blood donation: A cross‐sectional study from Sudan
Authors: Sayedahmed Ahmed Mahmoud Sayed , Ali Khalid Ali Mohamed , Ali Salma Bashir Suliman , Ahmed Hammam Saeed Mohamed , Shrif Faris Said Mohamed , Ali Namareg Abdelrhman Abass
Published: June 2020

Background and objectives

The COVID‐19 pandemic has a negative impact on the blood donation process, and the whole world nowadays is struggling to maintain a sufficient safe blood supply. The aim of this study was to identify the reasons for lapsing from blood donation during the COVID‐19 pandemic among the Sudanese blood donors, and also to determine the motives for returning to blood donation.

Materials and methods

This was a cross‐sectional study. Our population was all lapsing Sudanese blood donors who received an invitation from the national central laboratory and did not respond. We used an interviewing questionnaire, and interviews were done through phone calls.

Result

674 blood donors had participated in our study. About 94·6% of the participants were males, and the majority was younger than 36 years. The most common reason for lapsing from blood donation was staying at home to avoid the COVID‐19 infection (60·6%). About 63·4% of the participants said that they would return to donate if there were regular invitations. And 52·4% of our participants said they would return if the COVID‐19 pandemic was controlled. The altruistic factor was the most common motivation for first time donation.

Conclusion

We have to find strategies to overcome this reduction in the blood donors. We have to raise the awareness of people about the importance of maintaining adequate blood supply; also we have to provide mobile donation sites and to send regular invitations to the donors.
Microplastics in the marine environment: a literature review and northeast England case study
Authors: See Morwenna , Gilchrist Claire , Cooper Nick , Ratcliffe David , Siddle Robin
Published: June 2020

The issue of microplastic pollution has seen an increasing focus over the last decade, both as a scientific research topic and due to intensive media interest. Despite this, there has been, until recently, a relative paucity of data relating to the volume and type of microplastics in the marine environment. The Cell 1 Regional Coastal Monitoring Programme, which covers approximately 300 km of the northeast England coastline, has recently collected subtidal sediment samples from the bed of the North Sea and analysed these for particle size distribution and microplastic content. This paper presents the results of this analysis along with a literature review of the sources, movements and concentration of microplastics in the marine environment.
Polysaccharide‐rich hydrogel formulation combined with photobiomodulation repairs UV‐induced photodamage in mice skin
Authors: Neves Lia Mara Grosso , Parizotto Nivaldo Antonio , Tim Carla Roberta , Floriano Elaine Medeiros , Lopez Renata F Vianna , Venâncio Tiago , Fernandes João Batista , Cominetti Marcia Regina
Published: June 2020

Prolonged skin exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) induces premature aging in both the epidermis and the dermis. Chronic exposure to UVR induces the activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, activating c‐Jun, c‐Fos expression, and transcription factor of AP‐1 activating protein. AP‐1 activation results in the positive induction of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) synthesis, which degrade skin collagen fibers. Polysaccharides from the fruit of Lycium barbarum (LBP fraction) have a range of activities and have been demonstrate to repair the photodamage. In different approaches, laser application aims to recover the aged skin without destroying the epidermis, promoting a modulation, called photobiomodulation (PBM), which leads to protein synthesis and cell proliferation, favoring tissue repair. Here we developed a topical hydrogel formulation from a polysaccharide‐rich fraction of Lycium barbarum fruits (LBP). This formulation was associated with PBM (red laser) to evaluate whether the isolated and combined treatments would reduce the UVR‐mediated photodamage in mice skin. Hairless mice were photoaged for 6 weeks and then treated singly or in combination with LBP and PBM. Histological, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence analyses were used to investigate the levels of c‐Fos, c‐Jun, MMP‐1, −2, and −9, collagen I, III, and FGF2. The combined regimen inhibited UVR‐induced skin thickening, decreased the expression of c‐Fos and c‐Jun, as well as MMP‐1, −2, and −9 and concomitantly increased the levels of collagen I, III, and FGF2. The PBM in combination with LBP treatment is a promising strategy for the repair of photodamaged skin, presenting potential clinical application in skin rejuvenation.
Chronic REM sleep restriction in young rats increases energy expenditure with no change in food intake
Authors: Menezes Letícia , de Moraes Danilo Alves , Ribeiro‐Silva Neila , Silva Sylvia Maria Affonso , Suchecki Deborah , Luz Jacqueline
Published: June 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

What are the effects of different periods of REM sleep restriction (7, 14 and 21 days) on metabolic parameters in young rats?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Animals submitted to each period of REM sleep deprivation showed a negative energy balance, with reduced body weight gain, body energy gain and gross food efficiency, less body fat content, and increased energy expenditure. There was no increase in food intake after any of the REM sleep restriction periods. In young rats, negative energy balance is not compensated by increased dietary intake as observed in adult rats.

Reduced sleep is associated with metabolic alterations, not only in adults, but also in children and adolescents. Several studies have shown that sleep restricted (SR) adult rats exhibit metabolic changes, followed by increased food intake, but few have evaluated these functions in young animals. The aim of the present study was to establish the metabolic parameters of young rats subjected to different periods of REM sleep restriction and to propose a correction factor for the correct measurement of food intake. Young male Wistar rats were distributed in control and SR groups for 7, 14 or 21 days. Sleep restriction was performed by the single platform method for 18 h. Regardless of the length of sleep restriction, all SR rats had a negative energy balance, evidenced by reduction in body weight gain, body energy gain and gross food efficiency, accompanied by increased energy expenditure. In addition, sleep restriction reduced body fat content throughout the entire period. Discounting food spillage, there was no increase in food intake by SR rats. In conclusion, the present study revealed metabolic changes in SR young rats after different lengths of REM sleep restriction and that weight loss and increased energy expenditure were not compensated by increased dietary intake as occurs in adult rats, indicating that young rats use other mechanisms to cope with the negative energy balance caused by sleep restriction. In addition, we propose a correction factor for food intake, to prevent overestimation of this parameter, due to food spillage in the water containers.
MicroRNA‐188 inhibits biological activity of lung cancer stem cells through targeting MDK and mediating the Hippo pathway
Authors: Yang Xiaolin , Wang Baogang , Chen Wenbo , Man Xiaxia
Published: June 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

The aim was to investigate the function of microRNA‐188 in the biological characteristics of lung cancer stem cells and the molecular mechanisms involved.

What is the main finding and its importance?

This study highlights a new molecular mechanism involving microRNA‐188, MDK and the Hippo signalling pathway that plays a suppressive role in biological activity of lung cancer stem cells. This finding might offer new insights into gene‐based therapy for lung cancer.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in lung cancer and reported as new promising diagnostic and therapeutic tools for cancer control. Here, we investigated the action of microRNA‐188 (miR‐188) in lung cancer stem cells. We first tested miR‐188 expression in clinical samples of lung cancer patients, and a low expression profile of miR‐188 was found. Next, we analysed the role of miR‐188 in lung cancer stem cells with cell growth assays. To verify the in vitro results, we used a xenograft model to validate the capability of miR‐188 in tumorigenesis. Overexpression of miR‐188 reduced viability and metastasis of cancer stem cells. Similar results were reproduced in vivo, where overexpression of miR‐188 retarded tumour growth in mice. We also identified MDK as a target of miR‐188, and overexpression of MDK was found in lung cancer samples. Overexpressed MDK promoted the malignant behaviours of lung cancer stem cells. In addition, the Hippo pathway was found to be inactivated in lung cancer tissues, presenting as increased levels of YAP and TAZ. Suppression of the Hippo pathway also enhanced lung cancer stem cell activity and promoted the growth of xenograft tumours. To sum up, our results reveal that miR‐188 inhibits the malignant behaviours of lung cancer stem cells and the growth of xenograft tumours. This study might offer new insights into gene‐based therapies for cancer.
Skeletal muscle AMPK is not activated during 2 h of moderate intensity exercise at ∼65% in endurance trained men
Authors: McConell Glenn K. , Wadley Glenn D. , Le plastrier Kieran , Linden Kelly C.
Published: June 2020

Key points

AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is considered a major regulator of skeletal muscle metabolism during exercise.

However, we previously showed that, although AMPK activity increases by 8–10‐fold during ∼120 min of exercise at ∼65% in untrained individuals, there is no increase in these individuals after only 10 days of exercise training (longitudinal study).

In a cross‐sectional study, we show that there is also a lack of activation of skeletal muscle AMPK during 120 min of cycling exercise at 65% in endurance‐trained individuals.

These findings indicate that AMPK is not an important regulator of exercise metabolism during 120 min of exercise at 65% in endurance trained men.

It is important that more energy is directed towards examining other potential regulators of exercise metabolism.

AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is considered a major regulator of skeletal muscle metabolism during exercise. Indeed, AMPK is activated during exercise and activation of AMPK by 5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxyamide‐ribonucleoside (AICAR) increases skeletal muscle glucose uptake and fat oxidation. However, we have previously shown that, although AMPK activity increases by 8–10‐fold during ∼120 min of exercise at ∼65% in untrained individuals, there is no increase in these individuals after only 10 days of exercise training (longitudinal study). In a cross‐sectional study, we examined whether there is also a lack of activation of skeletal muscle AMPK during 120 min of cycling exercise at 65% in endurance‐trained individuals. Eleven untrained (UT; = 37.9 ± 5.6 ml.kg−1 min−1) and seven endurance trained (ET; = 61.8 ± 2.2 ml.kg−1 min−1) males completed 120 min of cycling exercise at 66 ± 4% (UT: 100 ± 21 W; ET: 190 ± 15 W). Muscle biopsies were obtained at rest and following 30 and 120 min of exercise. Muscle glycogen was significantly (P < 0.05) higher before exercise in ET and decreased similarly during exercise in the ET and UT individuals. Exercise significantly increased calculated skeletal muscle free AMP content and more so in the UT individuals. Exercise significantly (P < 0.05) increased skeletal muscle AMPK α2 activity (4‐fold), AMPK αThr172 phosphorylation (2‐fold) and ACCβ Ser222 phosphorylation (2‐fold) in the UT individuals but not in the ET individuals. These findings indicate that AMPK is not an important regulator of exercise metabolism during 120 min of exercise at 65% in endurance trained men.
Investigation of the Helmholtz Motion of a Violin String: A Finite Element Approach
Authors: Akar Özge , Willner Kai
Published: June 2020

In the context of this work, a violin string motion is examined using a finite element approach. The string is formulated via ideal string elements and is bowed at one point on the string; hence, there is a nodal contact between the bow and the string. The bow movement induces the stick-slip effect, which is the cause for the violin string sound. The present paper aims at the investigation of the stick-slip phenomenon of bowed strings, considering well-known bowed string effects like the Helmholtz corner modulation, the Schelleng ripples, and the flattening effect. One key element that is used in this work is the Schelleng diagram, which indicates the “perfect” bow force depending on the bowing position. Within these parameters, the Helmholtz motion is carried out. Additionally, different friction characteristic curves are applied in order to study the impact of the rosin on the string motion.
Study of Oil Starvation in Journal Bearing Using Acoustic Emission and Vibration Measurement Techniques
Authors: Poddar Surojit , Tandon N.
Published: June 2020

This present article evaluates the state of starvation in a journal bearing using acoustic emission (AE) and vibration measurement techniques. A journal bearing requires a constant supply of oil in an adequate amount to develop a hydrodynamic film, thick enough to separate the surfaces and avoid asperity contacts. On a microscopic level, the surface interaction under starved lubrication results in deformation and fracture of asperities. This causes a proportionate increase in AE and vibration. The AE activities resulting from asperities interaction have significant energy in the frequency range of 100–400 kHz with peak frequencies in the range of 224–283 kHz. Further, the peak frequency shifts from the higher to lower side as the asperity interaction transits from the elastic to plastic contact. This information derived from the spectral analysis of AE signals can be used to develop condition monitoring parameters to proactively control the lubrication and prevent bearing failure.
Recursive sequence generation in monkeys, children, U.S. adults, and native Amazonians
Authors: Ferrigno Stephen , Cheyette Samuel J. , Piantadosi Steven T. , Cantlon Jessica F.
Published: June 2020

The ability to represent recursive sequences is early developing and found across cultures, but is not unique to human thought.
Lysosomal recycling of amino acids affects ER quality control
Authors: Higuchi-Sanabria Ryo , Shen Koning , Kelet Naame , Frankino Phillip A. , Durieux Jenni , Bar-Ziv Raz , Sing Cierra N. , Garcia Enrique J. , Homentcovschi Stefan , Sanchez Melissa , Wu Rui , Tronnes Sarah U. , Joe Larry , Webster Brant , Ahilon-Jeronimo Alex , Monshietehadi Samira , Dallarda Sofia , Pender Corinne , Pon Liza A. , Zoncu Roberto , Dillin Andrew
Published: June 2020

The lysosome affects ER homeostasis by recycling critical amino acids.
Phenotype and kinetics of SARS-CoV-2–specific T cells in COVID-19 patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Weiskopf Daniela , Schmitz Katharina S. , Raadsen Matthijs P. , Grifoni Alba , Okba Nisreen M. A. , Endeman Henrik , van den Akker Johannes P. C. , Molenkamp Richard , Koopmans Marion P. G. , van Gorp Eric C. M. , Haagmans Bart L. , de Swart Rik L. , Sette Alessandro , de Vries Rory D.
Published: June 2020

Peptide pool stimulation enables longitudinal analysis of SARS-CoV-2–specific CD4
+
and CD8
+
T cells in ICU-admitted COVID-19 patients.
A prospective on multiple biological activities of lactoferrin contributing to piglet welfare
Authors: Hao Ya , Wang Jianhua , Teng Da , Wang Xiumin , Mao Ruoyu , Yang Na , Ma Xuanxuan
Published: June 2020

Piglets, especially weaning piglets, show a lower level of immunity and higher morbidity and mortality, owing to their rapid growth, physiological immaturity, and gradual reduction of maternal antibodies, which seriously affects their growth and thus, value. It is important that piglets adapt to nutrient digestion and absorption and develop sound intestinal function and colonization with gut microbiota as soon as possible during their early life stage. Lactoferrin is a natural glycoprotein polypeptide that is part of the transferrin family. It is widely found in mucosal secretions such as saliva and tears, and most highly in milk and colostrum. As a multifunctional bioactive protein and a recommended food additive, lactoferrin is a potential alternative therapy to antibiotics and health promoting additive for piglet nutrition and development. It is expected that lactoferrin, as a natural food additive, could play an important role in maintaining pig health and development. This review examines the following known beneficial effects of lactoferrin: improves the digestion and capacity for absorption in the intestinal tract; promotes the absorption of iron and reduces the incidence of iron deficiency anemia; regulates intestinal function and helps to balance the microbial biota; and enhances the resistance to disease of the piglets via modulating and enhancing the immune system.
A state-space spatial survey-based stock assessment (SSURBA) model to inform spatial variation in relative stock trends
Authors: Kumar Rajeev , Cadigan Noel G. , Zheng Nan , Varkey Divya A. , Morgan M. Joanne
Published: June 2020

An age-structured, spatial survey-based assessment model (SSURBA) is developed and applied to the Grand Banks stock (NAFO Divisions 3LNO) of American plaice (Hippoglossoides platessoides) in Newfoundland and Labrador. The state-space model is fit to annual spatial (i.e., three divisions) stock size-at-age research vessel (RV) survey indices that are assumed to be proportional to abundance. We model index catchability (q) as a logistic function of fish length, which varies with age, cohort, and the time of the survey; therefore, the model facilitates the estimation of q values that change spatially and temporally following changes in fish growth and survey gears. The SSURBA model produces division-level estimates of fishing mortality rates (F), stock productivity, and stock size relative to the logistic catchability assumption with q = 1 for fully selected ages. The spatial model allows us to include additional survey information compared with the space-aggregated assessment model (all of 3LNO) that is currently used to assess stock status. The model can provide estimates of relative catch, which we compare with reported catch trends to partially validate the model.
Quantum states, groups and monotone metric tensors
Authors: Ciaglia F. M.
Published: June 2020

A novel link between monotone metric tensors and actions of suitable extensions of the unitary group on the manifold of faithful quantum states is presented here by means of three illustrative examples related with the Bures–Helstrom metric tensor, the Wigner–Yanase metric tensor, and the Bogoliubov–Kubo–Mori metric tensor.
An Improved Lagrange Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm and Its Application in Multiple Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Lv Xiaofeng , Zhou Deyun , Ma Ling , Zhang Yuyuan , Tang Yongchuan
Published: June 2020

The fault rate in equipment increases significantly along with the service life of the equipment, especially for multiple fault. Typically, the Bayesian theory is used to construct the model of faults, and intelligent algorithm is used to solve the model. Lagrangian relaxation algorithm can be adopted to solve multiple fault diagnosis models. But the mathematical derivation process may be complex, while the updating method for Lagrangian multiplier is limited and it may fall into a local optimal solution. The particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is a global search algorithm. In this paper, an improved Lagrange-particle swarm optimization algorithm is proposed. The updating of the Lagrangian multipliers is with the PSO algorithm for global searching. The difference between the upper and lower bounds is proposed to construct the fitness function of PSO. The multiple fault diagnosis model can be solved by the improved Lagrange-particle swarm optimization algorithm. Experiment on a case study of sensor data-based multiple fault diagnosis verifies the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method.
Preoperative Nutritional Status and Its Consequences on Abdominal Surgery in Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia: An Institution-Based Observational Study
Authors: Hussen Leila , Tadesse Elazar , Teferi Dereje Yohannes
Published: June 2020

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of malnutrition and its association with wound healing and length of hospitalization among patients undergoing abdominal surgery admitted to hospitals in the Wolaita zone in southern Ethiopia. Methods. An institution-based prospective observational study was conducted in three hospitals in the Wolaita zone from August to October 2016. All eligible individuals aged between 19 and 55 years were recruited in this study. Anthropometric and biochemical analyses, such as serum albumin (Alb) and total lymphocyte count (TLC), were taken for nutritional assessment during the preoperative period. Quantitative variables were compared using Student’s t test. Cox’s regression was employed to determine which variables were possible risk factors for poor wound healing. Results. A total of 105 patients aged 19 to 55 with a mean age (±SD) of 34 ± 9.6 years were included, and the prevalence of preoperative malnutrition was 27.6%, 87%, according to BMI and nutritional risk index, respectively. Poor wound healing was significantly associated with underweight patients (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2) (AHR: 6.5 : 95%CI: 3.312.9), postoperative weight loss (AHR: 4.9; 95%CI: 2.8–8.5), and nutritional risk index (NRI) less than 97.5 (AHR 1.8; 95% CI: 1.09–3.1). Conclusion. The prevalence of malnutrition is high in our study setup; this is associated with an increased risk of adverse postoperative outcomes. Therefore, our results emphasize the need of routine preoperative nutritional assessment, optimizing nutritional status of patients and postoperative nutritional support.
On the Physical and Evolutionary Limits to the Rates of Enzyme-Catalyzed Reactions
Authors: Canepa Carlo
Published: June 2020

An existing model for the rate coefficients of enzyme-catalyzed processes involves the regularized gamma function of Euler replacing the exponential dependence of the rate coefficient from the reaction barrier. The application of this model to experimental data, on one hand, validates the model by correctly describing the negative curvature of Eyring plots. On the other hand, this analysis evidences that enzymes never reach the maximum theoretical efficiency, a counterintuitive fact that requires an explanation. This work interprets this evolutionary limit in terms of the necessity of living systems to achieve and maintain homeostasis. Further validation of the expression for the rate coefficients comes from the analysis of the discrepancy between the theoretically predicted energy difference between reactants and products in a chemical equilibrium and the corresponding value obtained by regression to the classical expression for the equilibrium constant. The discrepancy is resolved by making use of the proposed model.
Travelling Wave Solutions of Wu–Zhang System via Dynamic Analysis
Authors: Zheng Hang , Xia Yonghui , Bai Yuzhen , Lei Guo
Published: June 2020

In this paper, based on the dynamical system method, we obtain the exact parametric expressions of the travelling wave solutions of the Wu–Zhang system. Our approach is much different from the existing literature studies on the Wu–Zhang system. Moreover, we also study the fractional derivative of the Wu–Zhang system. Finally, by comparison between the integer-order Wu–Zhang system and the fractional-order Wu–Zhang system, we see that the phase portrait, nonzero equilibrium points, and the corresponding exact travelling wave solutions all depend on the derivative order α. Phase portraits and simulations are given to show the validity of the obtained solutions.
Monitoring and Simulation of Dynamic Spatiotemporal Land Use/Cover Changes
Authors: Guo Andong , Zhang Yuqing , Hao Qing
Published: June 2020

Changes in land use/cover are among the most prominent impacts that humans have on the environment. Therefore, exploring land use/cover change is of great significance to urban planning and sustainable development. In this study, we preprocessed multiperiod land use and socioeconomic data, combined with spatial zoning, multilayer perception (MLP) artificial neural network, and Markov chain (MC), to construct a cellular automaton model of spatial zoning. Moreover, with the help of ArcGIS 10.2 and TerrSet 18.07 software, we explore the current status of land use and predict future changes. The results showed that drastic changes have occurred among different land use classes in Jinzhou District over the past 13 years owing to the impact of economic development and reclamation projects. Construction land, arable land, and waters have changed by +85.09, −24.42, and −23.62 km2, respectively. By comparing the FoM and Kappa coefficients, we concluded that the prediction accuracy of partitioned MLP-MC is better than that of unpartitioned MLP-MC. Therefore, using the spatial zoning approach to identify the conversion rules among land use classes in different zones can more effectively predict future land use changes and provide a reference for urban planning and policy making.
Research on Target Tracking Algorithm Using Millimeter-Wave Radar on Curved Road
Authors: Song Shiping , Wu Jian , Zhang Sumin , Liu Yunhang , Yang Shun
Published: June 2020

Millimeter-wave radar has been widely used in intelligent vehicle target detection. However, there are three difficulties in radar-based target tracking in curves. First, there are massive data association calculations with poor accuracy. Second, the lane position relationship of target-vehicle cannot be identified accurately. Third, the target tracking algorithm has poor robustness and accuracy. A target tracking algorithm framework on curved road is proposed herein. The following four algorithms are applied to reduce data association calculations and improve accuracy. (1) The data rationality judgment method is employed to eliminate target measurement data outside the radar detection range. (2) Effective target life cycle rules are used to eliminate false targets and clutter. (3) Manhattan distance clustering algorithm is used to cluster multiple data into one. (4) The correspondence between the measurement data received by the radar and the target source is identified by the nearest neighbor (NN) data association. The following three algorithms aim to derive the position relationship between the ego-vehicle and the target-vehicles. (1) The lateral speed is obtained by estimating the state of motion of the ego-vehicle. (2) An algorithm for state compensation of target motion is presented by considering the yaw motion of the ego-vehicle. (3) A target lane relationship recognition model is built. The improved adaptive extended Kalman filter (IAEKF) is used to improve the target tracking robustness and accuracy. Finally, the vehicle test verifies that the algorithms proposed herein can accurately identify the lane position relationship. Experiments show that the framework has higher target tracking accuracy and lower computational time.
The Compound Expression of HSP90 and INOS in the Testis of Diabetic Rats as Cellular and Pathologic Adverse Effects of Diabetes
Authors: Alsarhan Ali , Amawi Kawther Faisal , Al-Mazari Inas Saleh , Hurirah Hashem Abu , Alkhatib Ahed J.
Published: June 2020

Introduction. Diabetes is increasingly prevalent at global level and associated with various impacts including the male reproductive system. Aims. This research is aimed at investigating the influence of diabetes on the localization and expression of HSP90 and iNOS in the testicular tissue of diabetic rats. Methods. A diabetic model was developed through a single injection of alloxan monohydrate intraperitoneally (purchased from Sigma-Aldrich) 120 mg/kg body weight following fasting for 12 hrs. The experiment involved two groups, the control and diabetic groups with 10 albino rats in each group. Diabetes was considered if glucose concentration was ≥200 mg/dl. The experiment duration was for one month. After the experiment had finished, all rats were terminated and prepared for routine histological and immunohistochemical examination. Results. The results revealed that diabetes caused morphological changes at histological level in testicular tissue. Immunohistochemical examination showed that diabetes significantly upregulated the expression of both HSP90 and iNOS in the testicular tissue of diabetic rats as compared with that of the control group (p<0.001). Conclusion. Diabetes may induce adverse health effects on the male reproduction through upregulation of HSP90 and iNOS in the testicular tissue of diabetic rats.
A Multilevel Optimization Framework for Computation Offloading in Mobile Edge Computing
Authors: Shan Nanliang , Li Yu , Cui Xiaolong
Published: June 2020

Mobile edge computing is a new computing paradigm that can extend cloud computing capabilities to the edge network, supporting computation-intensive applications such as face recognition, natural language processing, and augmented reality. Notably, computation offloading is a key technology of mobile edge computing to improve mobile devices’ performance and users’ experience by offloading local tasks to edge servers. In this paper, the problem of computation offloading under multiuser, multiserver, and multichannel scenarios is researched, and a computation offloading framework is proposed that considering the quality of service (QoS) of users, server resources, and channel interference. This framework consists of three levels. (1) In the offloading decision stage, the offloading decision is made based on the beneficial degree of computation offloading, which is measured by the total cost of the local computing of mobile devices in comparison with the edge-side server. (2) In the edge server selection stage, the candidate is comprehensively evaluated and selected by a multiobjective decision based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process based on Covariance (Cov-AHP) for computation offloading. (3) In the channel selection stage, a multiuser and multichannel distributed computation offloading strategy based on the potential game is proposed by considering the influence of channel interference on the user’s overall overhead. The corresponding multiuser and multichannel task scheduling algorithm is designed to maximize the overall benefit by finding the Nash equilibrium point of the potential game. Amounts of experimental results show that the proposed framework can greatly increase the number of beneficial computation offloading users and effectively reduce the energy consumption and time delay.
Finite-Time Projective Synchronization of Fractional-Order Memristive Neural Networks with Mixed Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Hui Meng , Wei Chen , Zhang Jiao , Ho-Ching Iu Herbert , Luo Ni , Yao Rui , Bai Lin
Published: June 2020

This paper is concerned with the finite-time projective synchronization problem of fractional-order memristive neural networks (FMNNs) with mixed time-varying delays. Firstly, under the frame of fractional-order differential inclusion and the set-valued map, several criteria are derived to ensure finite-time projective synchronization of FMNNs. Meanwhile, three properties are established to deal with different forms of the finite-time fractional differential inequation, which greatly extend some results on estimation of settling time of FMNNs. In addition to the traditional Lyapunov function with 1-norm form in Theorem 1, a more general and flexible Lyapunov function based on p-norm is constructed in Theorem 2 to analyze the finite-time projective synchronization problem, and the estimation of settling time has been verified less conservative than previous results. Finally, numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the derived theoretical results.
Analysis of the Vibration and Chatter Stability of a Tapered Composite Boring Bar
Authors: Zhang Chunjin , Ren Yongsheng , Ji Shujuan , Zhang Jinfeng
Published: June 2020

As metal boring bars have low dynamic stiffness, chatter is easily induced during the boring process. Therefore, improvement of the chatter stability is an open problem that requires further study. Though researchers proved that the composite materials suitable for making tapered boring bars can further improve the dynamic stiffness to meet the need of high-speed boring, existing research studies did not study the dynamic characteristics of the tapered composite boring bar comprehensively. In particular, no research has been done about the natural frequency and chatter stability of the composite boring bar under various taper ratios. Therefore, in this paper, a model of a tapered composite boring bar is established based on the Adomian modified decomposition method (AMDM). Second, this paper verifies the effectiveness of the AMDM by using the ANSYS software. Moreover, this paper studies the natural frequency of the boring bar model under various situations. Third, we verify the convergence of chatter stability of the boring bar model. Finally, the chatter stability of the tapered composite boring bar is analyzed comprehensively. The results show that the natural frequency and the chatter stability of the tapered model can be improved by choosing appropriate taper ratio, ply angle, stacking sequences, L/D ratio, T/D ratio, and the carbon composite. The results are helpful for the design of high-quality tapered composite boring bars matching the need of high speed cutting. In particular, these results can provide guidelines for adjusting the cutting speed in CNC boring and can further improve the surface finish of the machined workpieces.
Potential Prognostic Value and Mechanism of Stromal‐Immune Signature in Tumor Microenvironment for Stomach Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhu Xinying , Xie Xiaoli , Zhao Qingchao , Zhang Lixian , Li Changjuan , Zhao Dongqiang
Published: June 2020

Stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) is one of the most common malignancies. But the molecular mechanism is unknown. In this study, we downloaded the transcriptional profiles and clinical data of 344 STAD and 30 normal samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Stromal and immune scores of STAD were calculated by the Estimation of Stromal and Immune cells in Malignant Tumor tissues using Expression data (ESTIMATE) algorithm, and association of stromal/immune scores with tumor differentiation/T/N/M stage and survival was investigated. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between high and low score groups (based on media) were identified, and prognostic genes over‐/underexpressed in both STAD and stromal/immune signature were retrieved. Furthermore, proportions of 22 infiltrating immune cells for the cohort from TCGA were estimated by the Cell‐type Identification By Estimating Relative Subsets Of RNA Transcripts (CIBERSORT) algorithm, and association of 22 immune cells with tumor differentiation/T/N/M stage and survival was investigated. Next, coexpression analysis of 22 immune cells and intersection genes over‐/underexpressed in both STAD and stromal signature was conducted. We found high stromal and immune scores and macrophage infiltration predicting poor tumor differentiation and severe local invasion, obtained a list of prognostic genes based on stromal‐immune signature, and explored the interaction of collagen, chemokines such as CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11, and macrophage through coexpression analysis and may provide novel prognostic biomarkers and immunotherapeutic targets for STAD.
Nei Endonuclease VIII‐Like1 (NEIL1) Inhibits Apoptosis of Human Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Xue Wanjuan , Liu Yongcheng , Xin Ningning , Miao Jiyu , Du Juan , Wang Yu , Shi Haiyan , Wei Yameng , Zhang Huahua , Chen Yani , Gao Yi , Li Dan , Feng Yun , Yan Jing , Zhang Jing , Hou Ni , Huang Chen , Han Jiming
Published: June 2020

The study is aimed at investigating the role of Nei endonuclease VIII‐like1 (NEIL1) in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC). The human CRC (HCT116 and SW480) cells were subjected to the siRNA silencing and recombinant plasmid overexpression of NEIL1. Transfection of siNEIL1 significantly inhibited the cell growth. It also increased the Bax expression levels, while it decreased the Bcl‐2 expression levels in human CRC cells, leading the Bax/Bcl‐2 balance toward apoptosis. Moreover, the apoptosis was promoted through the caspase‐9 signaling pathway. One the other hand, high expression of NEIL1 promoted the cell viability and reduced the apoptosis, inducing the balance of Bax/Bcl‐2 in the human colon cancer cells to be antiapoptotic. In addition, the caspase‐9 signaling pathway inhibited apoptosis, contrary to the results obtained by downregulating NEIL1 expression. Furthermore, NEIL1 was negatively regulated by miR‐7‐5p, indicating that miR‐7‐5p inhibited the NEIL1 expression after transcription. Overexpression of miR‐7‐5p reversed the effects of NEIL1 on these CRC cells. In conclusion, NEIL1 promotes the proliferation of CRC cells, which is regulated negatively by miR‐7‐5p. These findings suggest that NEIL1 is a potential therapeutic target for CRC.
The First Asian, Single‐Center Experience of Blastocyst Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis with HLA Matching in Thailand for the Prevention of Thalassemia and Subsequent Curative Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation of Twelve Affected Siblings
Authors: Tiewsiri Kasorn , Manipalviratn Somjate , Sutheesophon Warachaya , Vanichsetakul Preeda , Thaijaroen Piyarat , Ketcharoon Pagawadee , Bradley Cara K. , McArthur Steven J. , Krutsawad Weena , Marshall James T. A. , Papadopoulos Konstantinos I.
Published: June 2020

Background and Methods. In Southeast Asia and particularly in Thailand, β0‐thalassemia/hemoglobin E (HbE) disease is a common hereditary hematological disease. In a retrospective analysis, we investigated the outcomes of blastocyst preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) for α‐ and β‐thalassemia exclusion, with human leukocyte antigen (PGD‐HLA) matching, from 2007 to 2016 at Superior A.R.T. (Bangkok, Thailand) and subsequent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) treatment of affected siblings. The main outcome measures included the proportion of biopsied cycles with at least one screened embryo suitable for transfer, implantation rate, live birth rate, and curative HSCT post‐PGD‐HLA. Results. In 221 cycles from 138 patients (104 cycles requiring HLA matching), 90.5% had embryo(s) biopsied for genetic testing. There were 119 embryo transfers for thalassemia (76) and thalassemia‐HLA cases (43), respectively, resulting in overall clinical pregnancy rates of 54.6%, implantation rates of 45.7%, and live birth rates of 44.1%. Our dataset included fifteen PGD‐HLA live births with successful HSCT in twelve affected siblings, 67% using umbilical cord blood stem cells (UCBSC) as the only SC source. Conclusions. We report favorable thalassemia PGD and PGD‐HLA laboratory and clinical outcomes from a single center. The ultimate success in PGD‐HLA is of course the cure of a thalassemia‐affected sibling by HSCT. Our PGD‐HLA HSCT series is the first and largest performed entirely in Asia with twelve successful and two pending cures and predominant UCBSC use.
Pricing of Margin Call Stock Loan Based on the FMLS
Authors: Xiang Kaili , Hu Peng , Li Xiao
Published: June 2020

In common stock loan, lenders face the risk that their loans will not be repaid if the stock price falls below loan, which limits the issuance and circulation of stock loans. The empirical test suggests that the log-return series of stock price in the US market reject the normal distribution and admit instead a subclass of the asymmetric distribution. In this paper, we investigate the model of the margin call stock loan problem under the assumption that the return of stock follows the finite moment log-stable process (FMLS). In this case, the pricing model of the margin call stock loan can be described by a space-fractional partial differential equation with a time-varying free boundary condition. We transform the free boundary problem to a linear complementarity problem, and the fully-implicit finite difference method that we used is unconditionally stable in both the integer and fractional order. The numerical experiments are carried out to demonstrate differences of the margin call stock loan model under the FMLS and the standard normal distribution. Last, we analyze the impact of key parameters in our model on the margin call stock loan evaluation and give some reasonable explanation.
Signal Game Analysis on the Effectiveness of Coal Mine Safety Supervision Based on the Affective Events Theory
Authors: Yang Xue , Tian Yang , Feng Kai , Yang Juan , Zhang Shu-hui , Wang Shengnan
Published: June 2020

The main cause of coal mine safety accidents is the unsafe behavior of miners who are affected by their emotional state. Therefore, the implementation of effective emotional supervision is important for achieving the sustainable development of coal mining enterprises in China. Assuming rational players, a signaling game between miners (emotion-driven and judgement-driven) and managers is established from the perspective of Affective Events Theory in order to examine the impact of managers’ emotions on coal miners’ behavior; it analyzes the players’ strategy selections as well as the factors influencing the equilibrium states. The results show that the safety risk deposits paid by managers and the costs of emotion-driven miners disguising any negative emotions affect equilibrium. Under the separating equilibrium state, the emotional supervision system faces “the paradox of almost totally safe systems” and will be broken; the emotion-driven miners disguising any negative emotions will be permitted to work in the coal mine, creating a safety risk. Under the pooling equilibrium state, strong economic constraints, such as setting suitable safety risk deposits, may achieve effective emotional supervision of the miners, reducing the safety risk. The results are verified against a case study of the China Pingmei Shenma Group. Therefore, setting a suitable safety risk deposit to improve emotional supervision and creating punitive measures to prevent miners from disguising any negative emotions can reduce the number of coal mine safety accidents in China.